The Benefits of Live Streaming for Vloggers and Brands

By

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April 24, 2024

Live streaming has become a key tool for vloggers and content creators seeking to expand their audience and strengthen their brand presence. Using platforms like YouTube for live streaming offers several advantages, making it an effective strategy for enhancing online visibility.

Contents

1 Why Live Streaming?
2 Diversifying Content Offerings
3 Getting Started with Live Streaming
4 Live Streaming Pre-Recorded Videos 24/7
- 4.1 How Gyre Works:
5 Wrapping up:

Why Live Streaming?

Live streaming is the digital equivalent of a town square meeting — it’s immediate, interactive, and incredibly engaging. When you stream live, you’re not just broadcasting, you’re inviting your audience into your world in real-time. This creates a sense of urgency and excitement among viewers, making them feel like part of a special event. They aren’t merely passive consumers but active participants who can influence the content through their immediate feedback and questions.

Enhancing Connection and Community

One of the primary superpowers of live streaming is its ability to foster a community. For vloggers, this community is a circle of friends, fans, and sometimes even critics who can interact with you and each other. The immediacy of live interactions helps strengthen the bond between creator and viewer, establishing a loyal base of supporters who are likely to return for more content, live or otherwise.

Boosting Visibility

Platforms like YouTube reward engagement by boosting visibility in search results and recommendations. Live streams, particularly those that garner high interaction rates, are goldmines for increasing visibility. Each comment, like, and share enhances the stream’s reach, pushing the content to new audiences and potential subscribers. This organic growth is invaluable in scaling your brand and enhancing your digital footprint.

Economic Advantages

Live streaming can also be a lucrative endeavor. Platforms like YouTube allow monetization features such as Super Chat and Super Stickers, where fans can pay to highlight their messages during live streams. This adds a revenue stream and also heightens viewer participation, as fans enjoy seeing their contributions recognized in real-time.

Diversifying Content Offerings

Live streaming also encourages content diversity. You can host Q&A sessions, perform live tutorials, or share behind-the-scenes glimpses into your creative process. Each format appeals to different audience segments and adds layers to your content portfolio, making your channel more appealing to a broader audience.

Getting Started with Live Streaming

Starting is as simple as having a reliable camera setup, a basic understanding of the platform’s streaming guidelines, and a solid internet connection. From there, it’s all about engaging authentically with your audience, being consistent in your streaming schedule, and promoting your streams through social media and other channels to ensure maximum reach.

Live Streaming Pre-Recorded Videos 24/7

An emerging strategy is the continuous streaming of pre-recorded videos. This approach keeps the channel active 24 hours a day, potentially reaching different audiences in various time zones. It creates a constant presence on the platform, which can increase total watch time and improve channel metrics. This method is particularly useful for maximizing the visibility of popular content or thematic series, ensuring that new viewers can discover it at any time.

And Gyre is the tool you need to optimize a 24-hour live stream of pre-recorded videos. It allows creators to upload videos to a personal Gyre server and start streaming these videos continuously to major social media platforms like YouTube, Twitch, Instagram, and Facebook.

How Gyre Works:

Upload Your Video: Start by uploading your video content to your personal Gyre server.
Begin Streaming: Select the video files you wish to stream; Gyre will handle the rest.
Continuous Loop: After the playlist ends, Gyre will automatically replay it, ensuring your stream remains active 24/7.

Wrapping up:

Live streaming and streaming pre-recorded videos 24/7 are powerful strategies for content creators looking to expand their reach and enhance their brand. These methods not only allow for real-time engagement and continuous content delivery but also offer varied monetization options and the flexibility to tailor content to audience preferences. For vloggers aiming to elevate their online presence, these strategies provide substantial benefits and opportunities for growth.

Metaverse Expansion: Meta Partners with Microsoft and ASUS to Expand Horizon OS Across New Devices

By

Vidhu Prathapan

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April 23, 2024

Key Takeaways:

Meta is sharing its Horizon OS with other manufacturers to grow the metaverse.
The platform will support new devices from companies like Microsoft, Lenovo, and ASUS.
Meta’s initiative aims to make creating and integrating apps easier for developers.

Meta is set to open its virtual reality operating system, Horizon OS, to other manufacturers, aiming to broaden the ecosystem of virtual and mixed reality devices. The company has secured partnerships with industry giants like Microsoft, Lenovo, and ASUS to foster new device development based on its platform. This strategic move toward an open model is designed to accelerate the adoption of the metaverse.

“We’re opening up the operating system that powers our Meta Quest devices to third-party hardware makers, giving developers a larger ecosystem to build for and ultimately creating more choice for consumers.,” Meta stated in a recent announcement. Horizon OS, which is the backbone of Meta’s VR and MR glasses, is an Android-based software that has been evolving over the past decade.

By allowing access to third parties, Meta aims to leverage its advanced technology — encompassing social connectivity and monetization features — to enhance user interaction across different devices. For instance, a Meta Quest user will be able to engage in Horizon Worlds with someone using Lenovo glasses, paving the way for a more unified and interactive user experience in the near future.

Meta elaborated on the capabilities of Horizon OS, emphasizing its robust social layer that allows users to carry their identities, avatars, social graphs, and friend circles seamlessly across different virtual environments. This integration will enable developers to incorporate these social features directly into their applications, enhancing the interactive experience.

Among the first to adopt Meta Horizon OS are tech leaders Microsoft, Lenovo, and ASUS, each tailoring their projects to serve distinct market segments. ASUS is set to produce a high-performance gaming helmet, while Lenovo will focus on mixed reality glasses designed for both work and leisure. Microsoft’s involvement is particularly notable as they plan to release a limited edition of Meta Quest, inspired by Xbox, adding a unique twist to the collaboration.

Meta is embracing an open approach with its Horizon OS, aiming to shape the future of the metaverse by making the platform available to third-party developers. This strategy is powered by the Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 platform, the same technology found in the Meta Quest 3 and Apple Vision Pro, ensuring high performance across devices.

In a move to make the platform more accessible, Meta is lowering the entry barriers for developers. Now, anyone who meets the criteria can launch their applications directly on the platform. Efforts to enhance developer engagement include a dedicated App Lab section and opportunities to transform mobile applications into mixed reality experiences using a spatial framework.

Mark Zuckerberg expressed his vision for this open model to lead the next era of spatial computing, involving the metaverse, various wearable devices, and beyond. “Our aim is to enable a wide range of experiences, from lightweight mixed reality headsets tailored for work to high-resolution OLED glasses designed for entertainment,” Zuckerberg explained. He also discussed the integration of gaming, with plans for glasses that support various peripherals and models capable of accessing a multitude of gaming platforms such as Game Pass, Steam, and Google Play.

Mark Zuckerberg seized the moment to critique Apple’s tightly controlled ecosystem. He pointed out that while the iPhone has triumphed in the mobile arena, its “strictly controlled” nature restricts users to only what Apple permits. By opening up Horizon OS to third-party integration, Meta aims to initiate a PC-like renaissance in the metaverse, fostering an environment of innovation and greater user freedom.

Understanding Trends in Software Development and Selecting the Right Outsourcing Partner

By

Ankit Pahuja

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April 23, 2024

Keeping pace with the latest trends and technologies is crucial for businesses aiming to stay competitive. Whether it’s harnessing the power of AI or adopting the newest programming language, understanding these shifts can significantly influence project outcomes. So businesses are increasingly turning to specialized skills and cutting-edge tools to create software solutions that not only meet current demands but also anticipate future needs. Opting for an outsourcing software development company has become a popular strategy for many organizations, as it allows them to access a global talent pool while managing costs effectively.

This approach simplifies the software development process and improves the scalability and quality of software products. As we delve deeper into the current trends in the software development industry and how to choose the right outsourcing partner, it’s important to understand the dynamics that drive successful software projects in this interconnected world.

Contents

1 Current Trends in Software Development
2 Tips for Choosing the Right Software Outsourcing Partner
3 Wrapping up:

Current Trends in Software Development

1. Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning:

AI and ML are transforming various industries by automating tasks and enhancing decision-making processes. In software development, these technologies are used to create more efficient and intelligent applications, improving everything from user experience to operational efficiencies.

2. Emergence of Rust:

While popular languages like JavaScript and Python dominate, Rust is gaining popularity for system-level programming. Known for its safety and performance, Rust is being adopted by leading technology firms for building reliable software infrastructures.

3. Adoption of Low-Code/No-Code Platforms:

To accelerate development and reduce the need for deep technical expertise, businesses are turning to low-code and no-code platforms. These platforms enable non-programmers to build applications quickly, simplifying the development process.

4. Widespread Use of DevOps:

The practice of DevOps, which integrates software development with IT operations, is becoming more prevalent. This approach enhances agility and reduces the time to market, featuring practices like automated testing and continuous deployment.

5. Increased Focus on Cybersecurity:

As software becomes increasingly integral to business operations, the importance of cybersecurity continues to grow. Developers are now embedding security features directly into applications from the ground up, a practice known as “security by design.” This trend involves proactive measures to protect data and systems from cyber threats, ensuring that security is a cornerstone of the development process, not an afterthought. With the rise of data breaches and cyberattacks, this approach is becoming essential for protecting sensitive information and maintaining user trust.

Tips for Choosing the Right Software Outsourcing Partner

1. Define Project Requirements:

Start by clearly defining your project needs. Determine whether you need specific technical expertise or someone to manage the entire project lifecycle. Understanding these requirements will help you focus your search on suitable candidates.

2. Evaluate Experience:

The experience of a contractor can significantly influence your project’s success. Review their past projects and achievements to ensure they have relevant experience. Request references and demonstrations of their previous work.

3. Check Communication Skills:

Effective communication is crucial. Your contractor should be able to explain technical details clearly and maintain regular communication. Look for their ability to provide updates and respond to feedback.

4. Assess Cultural Fit:

The contractor should integrate well with your existing team. Consider factors such as work ethics, corporate values, and time zone compatibility, which can affect project collaboration.

5. Ensure Post-Launch Support:

Software development extends beyond the launch. It is important that your outsourcing partner provides ongoing support, bug fixes, and updates to ensure the longevity of the software.

Wrapping up:

The field of software development is experiencing rapid transformation due to advancements in technologies and methodologies that are redefining how software is conceived, built, and deployed. Staying abreast of these trends is crucial for businesses aiming to leverage technology effectively. Moreover, the decision to partner with an outsourcing software development company can be a strategic move, providing access to specialized skills and innovative technologies while optimizing costs and resources.

As we look to the future, the pace of change in the software development industry is unlikely to slow down. Companies that can adapt quickly, embrace new technologies, and build robust partnerships will find themselves better positioned to meet the challenges of an increasingly digital world. Embracing these trends and making informed choices about software development practices and partners will be instrumental in driving innovation and achieving long-term success in the digital era.

Summer Adventures to the Next Level: Power and Chill with BougeRV’s Innovations

By

Rakesh Babu

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April 22, 2024

As summer calls to us with its promise of endless adventures under the sun and stars, the savvy camper knows that beating the heat and staying connected are clutch to a memorable outdoor experience. BougeRV, renowned for its pioneering outdoor solutions, offers the perfect duo for this season’s adventures: the CR Colorful Fridge and the JuiceGo Portable Power Station. Together, they redefine outdoor convenience, blending cutting-edge technology with eco-friendly innovations. Let’s take a look at how.

The BougeRV CR Colorful Fridge

WIth this fridge a palette of vivid colors including an invigorating purple, a serene pink, and a refreshing mint green infuses your outdoor space with personality and style. With a temperature range of -7℉ to 50℉, it ensures your drinks and perishables stay chilled, regardless of the scorching temperatures outside. Compact and designed for the great outdoors, this fridge has a 23 QT capacity, fitting snugly in your vehicle or campsite without taking up unnecessary space. Its energy-efficient operation, courtesy of the MAX MODE at 45W and ECO MODE at 36W, ensures your goods stay cold without draining your power sources. Its low noise level (≤45 dB) means it blends seamlessly into the tranquil sounds of nature, keeping your experiences peaceful and magic.

JuiceGo Portable Power Station

In a world where staying connected is non-negotiable, even in the wild, the JuiceGo Portable Power Station emerges as a beacon of reliability. With a hearty 240Wh capacity and a suite of output interfaces including USB, Type-C, DC, and AC sockets, it caters to a wide range of power needs. Whether it’s keeping the CR Colorful Fridge running, charging your smartphone, or lighting up your campsite, JuiceGo has you covered.

What truly sets JuiceGo apart is its sustainability through its use of LiFePO4 battery technology, promising over 3500+ charge cycles. This, combined with its multiple charging modes (AC, Solar, Car, and TYPE-C at 100W Max), show BougeRV’s dedication to green energy solutions. Its introduction at CES 2024 PEPCOM highlighted its potential to revolutionize outdoor living, making it an indispensable tool for the eco-conscious adventurer.

As you plan your summer getaways, consider these innovative offerings from BougeRV. They not only promise to enhance your comfort and convenience but also align with a sustainable lifestyle, ensuring that your adventures leave a positive impact on the planet. Whether you’re beach camping, forest dwelling, or exploring terrains, BougeRV’s CR Colorful Fridge and JuiceGo Portable Power Station are your trusted companions, guaranteeing that your summer adventures are both cool and empowering. For more information, you can go to BougeRV’s official website. Grab yours today!

Bitcoin Undergoes Fourth Halving: Cuts Mining Reward to 3.125 BTC, Promising Increased Market Scarcity

By

Ankit Pahuja

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April 20, 2024

Key Takeaways:

Halving Reduces Rewards: Bitcoin’s block reward halved from 6.25 BTC to 3.125 BTC on April 19, 2024.
Scarcity Drives Price: The reduced Bitcoin issuance may lead to increased prices due to its newfound scarcity.
Miners Need Efficiency: Miners must upgrade technology to stay profitable with the new, lower rewards.

On the evening of April 19, 2024, Bitcoin underwent a transformative change with the activation of its fourth halving at block 840,000. The latest halving has reduced the block reward from 6.25 BTC to a mere 3.125 BTC, effectively slashing the rate at which new bitcoins are introduced into the market.

The halving event was successfully mined by the ViaBTC pool, a first for the company, which now joins the ranks of previous participants like Slush Pool, F2Pool, and Antpool, each of whom had the honour in past halving events. This achievement allows ViaBTC Pool to claim an “epic sat,” part of a rare collection named under the Theory of Ordinals that recognizes the scarcity of such sats — there will only ever be 32, correlating with the number of halvings in the cryptocurrency’s lifecycle.

The reduction in Bitcoin issuance heralds the beginning of a new phase of digital scarcity. Over the next four years, or 210,000 blocks, the total number of bitcoins issued as miner subsidies will be just 656,250 BTC. This represents a significant decrease that will bring the total issuance by 2028 to 96% of the maximum 21 million BTC planned.

The halving is generally seen in a positive light within the cryptocurrency community, as it traditionally leads to a supply shock. Historically, these events have triggered a fear of missing out among investors, resulting in an influx of capital to the market and an increase in Bitcoin prices due to the reduced availability.

However, the influence of halvings may be diminishing as the total supply of Bitcoin nears its cap, and fewer bitcoins are left to enter circulation. At the time of this article, Bitcoin’s price stands at $63,867, showing stability despite the reduced inflow of new coins.

The halving also impacts miners by reducing the reward for mining new blocks. Although the network’s hashrate — a measure of the computational power per second used when mining — continues to climb, reaching new highs, the reward halving necessitates adjustments within the mining community. This includes the development and deployment of more efficient mining equipment to maintain profitability.

It is crucial to note that Bitcoin’s halving is an automated feature coded into its blockchain protocol, designed to execute without direct human intervention. This ensures a predictable, transparent reduction in supply, aligning with Satoshi Nakamoto’s vision of a deflationary currency.

Boston Dynamics Unveils New Atlas: Stronger, More Agile Humanoid Robot

By

Amaya Simon

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April 19, 2024

Key Takeaways:

The new electric Atlas robot by Boston Dynamics features swiveling joints and enhanced mobility, designed to perform complex tasks that exceed human capabilities.
The updated Atlas has a more humanoid appearance with advanced AI and machine learning tools, making it suitable for a variety of industrial applications.
Boston Dynamics plans to collaborate with select customers like Hyundai to test the new Atlas, setting the stage for broader future deployments across different industries.

Boston Dynamics has announced the retirement of its hydraulic Atlas robot and the introduction of a new, all-electric version. This next-generation Atlas is engineered to demonstrate an unprecedented range of movement for humanoid robots.

The company’s objective with the new design is to showcase Atlas’s ability to maintain a humanoid form without being restricted by the conventional limitations of bipedal movement. According to Boston Dynamics, the innovative swiveling joints embedded in the new model enable the robot to perform tasks typically deemed dull, dirty, or dangerous with exceptional adeptness.

In a recent press release, Boston Dynamics elaborated on the capabilities of the revamped Atlas: “We designed the electric version of Atlas to be stronger, more dexterous, and more agile.” The company further explained that while Atlas retains a human-like shape, the robot is optimized to move in the most efficient manner possible to accomplish tasks, often exceeding human physical abilities.

The unveiling of the new Atlas was accompanied by a teaser video that captured the robot’s enhanced functionalities in a dramatic and visually striking manner. The footage begins with Atlas lying on the ground, folding its legs over its body, and then swiftly rising to a standing position — a movement reminiscent of scenes from science fiction and horror films. Despite its somewhat eerie capabilities, the robot’s design incorporates elements like a curved, illuminated head that adds a distinctive, albeit robotic, charm.

This latest version of Atlas shows a closer resemblance to other bipedal robots, such as Tesla’s Optimus, featuring longer limbs and a more upright posture. Its head, capable of swiveling, and a face equipped with a built-in ring light, marks a significant design evolution from its predecessor. Moreover, this new Atlas integrates advanced AI and machine learning tools, enhancing its performance.

Boston Dynamics has also continued to build upon the established capabilities of the previous hydraulic Atlas model. The new robot can lift and maneuver objects with greater ease and features several new gripper variations to adapt to different industrial environments.

The company has announced plans to test the new Atlas with a select group of customers over the coming years. This initiative will begin with Hyundai, highlighting the growing interest in deploying humanoid robots across various sectors. Competing humanoid robots are also undergoing tests, such as those from Figure and Apptronik, which are being used on production lines for automotive giants BMW and Mercedes.

Gen Z Prefers TikTok and YouTube Over Google for Searches, Study Finds

By

Amaya Simon

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April 16, 2024

Key Takeaways:

Gen Z prefers TikTok and YouTube for searches, not Google.
They like the real, varied information on social media.
Google is creating new AI tools to win back Gen Z.

Google, long the go-to for online searches, is seeing a notable shift in popularity among younger users, with many in Generation Z choosing social media platforms like TikTok and YouTube over the traditional search engine.

According to recent studies, only 46% of Gen Z, defined as individuals aged 18 to 24, start their searches on Google. This marks a significant change in preferred search methods, especially when compared to the 58% of millennials, those aged 25 to 39, who still begin their search inquiries on Google.

Interestingly, 21% of Gen Z users are now turning to TikTok to initiate their searches, while another 5% start on YouTube, as reported by Axios. This trend underlines a broader movement towards social media platforms as viable sources of information.

Fred Cook, director of the University of Southern California’s Annenberg Center for Public Relations, points out the benefits of this shift. “You get more information in smaller chunks from different sources,” he explains, highlighting how social media can efficiently deliver varied perspectives and concise information.

Users often find content on platforms like TikTok to be more authentic, frequently validated by community interactions in the comments section where personal experiences and additional context are shared. This aspect of social media search is highly valued by those who seek more than just facts — they want insights from real people.

Furthermore, the approach to searching varies depending on the intent. One respondent mentioned using Google for quick answers and news updates, but turning to social media for inspiration and personal stories, suggesting a strategic use of different platforms based on specific needs.

Despite these trends, Google remains the dominant search engine globally. To maintain its position and appeal to younger audiences, Google is investing in new technologies. Among these innovations is the AI tool known as the Search Generative Experience, which integrates search results with ratings and comments through artificial intelligence. This tool is proving popular with Gen Z, indicating that Google may well reclaim its appeal with this pivotal demographic.

13 Best Open-Source Encrypted Messaging Android Apps For Privacy Concerned People

By

Sabarinath

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April 11, 2024

Best Open Source Encrypted Messaging Android Apps

Nowadays almost every famous chat apps available for Android supports encrypted messaging. However, some of them are owned by tech giants like Facebook tends us to doubt the extent of the credibility of those apps over our privacy and security.

With the rise of monitoring programs by the government and other major tech giants, the need for a super-secure open-source encrypted messaging app for Android is essential now to protect our privacy.

About 50% of people are concerned about their privacy while using messenger or VoIP apps in Android. Although, what most of us didn’t know that there are a handful of encrypted messaging apps are available for Android from open source community — which we can trust 100%.

There are many free and open-source Android apps are available in the market but we have picked a few of the best mobile encrypted messaging and VoIP apps available right now for Android. All these listed open source messengers and VoIP apps support end-to-end encryption and download links are also provided. And all of them are the best alternatives for WhatsApp, Viber, Facebook Messenger, Skype, etc.

Contents

1 Best Open-Source Encrypted Messaging Android Apps:

Best Open-Source Encrypted Messaging Android Apps:

1. Signal

Signal is an end-to-end encrypted open source messenger. They run their own server and the cryptography is similar to the proven OTR and done by specialists. Group chat is supported and you can send media files. VoIP is also supported. There is also an iOS version.

Source code: GitHub

2. Telegram

Maybe the favorite open-source encrypted messaging Android app of the majority of people. Telegram is an encrypted messenger just like WhatsApp and supports end-to-end encryption when choosing the “secret chat” option. It also has all the other things you would want from a messenger like group chats and photo/video sharing.

Source code: GitHub

3. Conversations

Conversations is a free and open-source Jabber/XMPP client for Android. Easy to use, reliable, battery friendly. With built-in support for images, group chats. Supports end-to-end encryption using OTR or OpenPGP.

Since the app is priced $2.99 on Google Play but you can download it as free from F-Droid.

Source code: GitHub

4. Xabber

Xabber — another open-source encrypted messaging app with Jabber (XMPP) client with multi-account support and clean and simple modern material interface. ~~In Google Play you can find two versions of Xabber — a free version and a supported version priced $2.99~~. It is also freely available in F-Droid.

Source code: GitHub

5. Antox

Antox is a new kind of open-source encrypted messaging Android app that uses the Tox protocol which is Peer to Peer to connect you with friends and family without anyone else listening in. Because of the use of Tox protocol, there will be high data usage and battery drain and for now WiFi only mode is recommended by the developer. Tox is completely free and comes without advertising — forever. Remember Antox is still on alpha stage and there may be some bugs.

Source code: TokTok Project

6. Kontalk Messenger

Kontalk is an end-to-end encrypted messenger, based on Open Standards (XMPP and OpenPGP). It automatically encrypts all messages and media without any user intervention.

Source code: GitHub

7. Linphone

Linphone — another VoIP Android app with easy to use SIP client with video and end-to-end encryption support. It also features audio conference calls with various participants.

Source code: GitHub

8. Briar

Briar is an open-source messaging app designed for activists, journalists, and anyone else who needs a safe, easy and robust way to communicate. In Briar, messages are synchronized directly between the users’ devices. Messages are sync via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi when the internet is down and when the internet is up, messages are sync via the Tor network.

Source code: GitLab

9. Wire — Secure Messenger

Wire messenger is a secure open-source platform comes with video calling and video conferencing for teams feature. It also allows inviting partners, customers, and suppliers to collaborate through the unique guest rooms. Cross-platform support of Wire messenger lets you collaborate whether in the office or on the road.

Source code: GitHub

10. Delta Chat

Delta Chat is a decentralized and open communication system that uses the existing e-mail server network. Delta Chat requires no additional server-side infrastructure — chat with anyone if you know their e-mail address, no need for them to install DeltaChat.

Source code: GitHub

11. Silence

Silence is a full replacement for the default text messaging application because all messages are encrypted locally and messages to other Silence users are encrypted over the air. So it is a perfect SMS/MMS application that allows you to protect your privacy while communicating with friends.

Source code: GitLab

12. Q-municate

Q-municate is a cross-platform open-source app bundled with a wide range of communication features including free messaging, file transfer, push notifications, audio/video calls.

Source code: GitHub

13. Element

Element is a flexible open-source chat app for Android with decentralized communication. It’s kind of like an open-source discord without focusing gaming community. It’s really easy to use while also being secure, as it supports the end-to-end encryption. Also, you can even run your own server and connect to everyone else.

Source code: GitHub

Use these open-source encrypted messaging and VoIP Android apps and be sure no one else can see your messages. Because these apps make it confirm — everything you send can only be read by the person you sent it to.

So which private messenger app are you going to use? And don’t forget to share the information with your dear ones. And comment if you know any other similar messenger.