2026/01/24
Article: 3 min
BirdyChat, an EU-based chat app, has become the first European application to achieve interoperability with WhatsApp under the Digital Markets Act, enabling users to exchange messages directly with WhatsApp contacts using phone numbers.
Discussion (466): 1 hr 27 min
The discussion revolves around WhatsApp's new interface and DMA compliance allowing BirdyChat users in the EEA to chat with WhatsApp contacts without needing an opt-in. Opinions are mixed, with some seeing it as a positive development while others criticize the opt-in requirement on WhatsApp. The name and branding of BirdyChat receive criticism for being unappealing or confusing. Privacy concerns arise regarding the implementation of interoperability, and users express frustration over the lack of features in alternative messaging apps compared to WhatsApp or Telegram.
Article: 6 min
Microsoft has confirmed that it will provide the FBI with access to BitLocker encryption keys upon a valid legal order request. This comes after an incident where Microsoft provided the FBI with BitLocker keys for a device in Guam related to a Covid unemployment assistance program fraud case.
Discussion (322): 1 hr 13 min
The comment thread discusses various opinions and concerns regarding encryption keys, default settings for disk encryption, and the storage practices of tech companies like Microsoft. There is a general consensus that encryption keys should not be stored by third parties without user consent and that users need to understand the risks associated with key storage. The conversation also touches on historical examples of cooperation between tech companies and governments, as well as the importance of user education on encryption practices.
Article: 23 min
The article discusses the challenges and misconceptions surrounding software project estimation in the tech industry, arguing that it is impossible to accurately estimate software projects due to their inherent complexity and unknown variables. The author suggests that estimates are often used as political tools by non-engineering managers for decision-making purposes rather than being made by engineers themselves.
Discussion (299): 1 hr 46 min
The discussion revolves around the challenges and complexities involved in estimating software projects. Participants acknowledge that estimation is an imperfect skill influenced by various factors such as complexity, unforeseen issues, and the level of understanding. They also discuss how estimation plays a crucial role in decision-making within organizations regarding resource allocation and prioritization. The conversation highlights the importance of continuous practice and learning to improve estimation skills.
Discussion (320): 1 hr 9 min
The discussion revolves around the integration of AI tools like Claude Code into software development workflows. There is a mix of excitement and skepticism about AI's role in code generation, review, and management. Key points include the use of subagents for task delegation, concerns over code quality and maintainability, and debates on the balance between automation and human oversight.
Article: 18 min
The author shares their experience and solution for upgrading internet speed from gigabit Ethernet to Gigabit over phone wires using a German-made device, discussing the challenges of importing it into the UK post-Brexit.
Discussion (270): 1 hr 23 min
The discussion revolves around the limitations of internet infrastructure in the UK, particularly regarding gigabit options and existing wiring setups in homes and apartments. Users express frustration with slow performance on phone lines and highlight various solutions for repurposing existing wiring for Ethernet purposes. There is a consensus that the UK's internet speeds are lacking compared to other countries, and there is an interest in finding workarounds without new infrastructure.
Article:
Comma OpenPilot is an AI upgrade for various car models that provides active driver assistance features such as lane centering, dashcam recording, adaptive cruise control, OTA updates, lane changing, and 360° vision. It can be purchased directly from the website and works with a wide range of vehicles from different brands.
Discussion (211): 42 min
The comment thread discusses the Comma AI technology and its applications in various vehicles. Opinions are mixed regarding its effectiveness, safety, and legal implications. The community is generally supportive of the product but raises concerns about insurance coverage, regulatory issues, and potential risks associated with using self-driving technologies.
Article: 10 min
The author of the blog post has integrated a comment section powered by Bluesky into their website using Cory Zue's package 'bluesky-comments'. This approach allows for hosting comments directly on the site while leveraging Bluesky's features such as verification, hosting, storage, spam filtering, and moderation. The author chose Bluesky over other platforms like Twitter or Disqus due to its open-source nature and lack of potential takeover by a single entity. They built their own implementation instead of using Zue's package for styling purposes and future feature additions.
Discussion (100): 17 min
The comment thread discusses the merits of Mastodon and Bluesky as social media platforms, with opinions on their success, features, and alternatives. There is a debate around decentralization and hosting options for blogs.
Article: 10 min
The article discusses the growing concern over Europe's reliance on US internet technology, particularly cloud computing services provided by companies like AWS, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud. It highlights potential risks such as technical failures, cyber-attacks, and geopolitical disputes that could lead to a loss of access to these services. The EU president, Ursula von der Leyen, has called for greater technological independence in response to this issue. Various European countries are taking steps towards regaining digital sovereignty by investing in open-source software, developing domestic cloud platforms, and replacing Microsoft systems with alternatives.
Discussion (240): 56 min
The comment thread discusses the desire for European countries to reduce their reliance on US technology and services, particularly in light of concerns over the political climate in the US. There is a call for more innovation and self-sufficiency within Europe, with suggestions for adopting open-source principles and practices by governments. The conversation also touches on issues such as data privacy regulation, reducing dependence on Russian energy resources, and the impact of US tech oligarchs on European markets.
Article: 2 min
Poland's electric grid was targeted by wiper malware likely deployed by Russian state hackers in an attempt to disrupt operations.
Discussion (138): 27 min
The comment thread discusses the ongoing digital conflict between Russia and European countries, focusing on cyber warfare and information operations. Opinions vary regarding the gravity of these attacks, with some arguing that they are part of a proxy war without direct military engagement, while others highlight the significant impact on critical infrastructure. The conversation also touches upon the resilience of infrastructure against cyber attacks and the potential for collateral damage.
Article: 2 min
A man was shot and killed by federal agents in south Minneapolis this morning, according to local police chief Brian O'Hara. The incident is being covered by the Minnesota Star Tribune, which also reports on related events such as a 2-year-old reunited with her mother after being detained by federal agents, and witnesses disputing government claims about an abandoned 5-year-old.
Discussion (146): 33 min
The comment thread discusses an incident involving ICE in Minneapolis, focusing on its implications for tech companies and workers outside California, potential economic impacts, global concerns about democracy collapse, and the relevance to the global tech industry. The tone is predominantly negative, with strong opinions against ICE actions and their broader societal impact.