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Mobile Applications

WhatsApp App for Apple Watch: Full Functionality Launched

by Rachel Kim – Technology Editor November 4, 2025

written by Rachel Kim – Technology Editor

WhatsApp Launches Full Apple Watch App, Bringing⁢ Messaging to Your Wrist

Cupertino, CA ⁤- WhatsApp has released a fully ⁢functional app for Apple Watch, enabling ⁣users to send and receive messages, make and receive calls, and react to conversations directly from their wrist. This marks a significant expansion ‌of‌ WhatsApp’s multi-device capabilities and the first time‍ the messaging platform offers complete functionality on Apple’s smartwatch.

The new app allows users to ⁢view incoming calls, read⁤ complete messages – even lengthy ones – and send voice messages all from ‍their Apple ⁤Watch. Speedy ⁤emoji reactions are also now supported, offering a fast way to respond⁣ without reaching for a phone. The interface has been optimized ‍for the watch’s smaller screen,ensuring ⁢clear display of images and stickers. Users also gain access to recent conversation history.

Meta emphasizes that all messages ‍and ⁢calls remain protected by end-to-end encryption,mirroring the security of the main WhatsApp app on⁢ iPhone and Android.

the⁣ WhatsApp ‍app ⁣for Apple Watch is compatible with Apple Watch Series 4 or later, and requires watchOS 10 or later. The rollout of features is currently underway and will reach all ‍users gradually. Meta has indicated plans for future updates, including enhanced notification integration and the introduction of AI-powered interaction options.

This launch follows the introduction of WhatsApp desktop and tablet apps, signaling Meta’s ⁢broader strategy to establish WhatsApp as a ⁣platform independent of smartphones.

November 4, 2025 0 comments

Health

Mobile Mental Health App Improves Depression in Indian Women’s Groups

by Dr. Michael Lee – Health Editor October 2, 2025

written by Dr. Michael Lee – Health Editor

Mobile App Shows Promise in Addressing‍ Depression Among Rural Indian Women

NEW DELHI – A⁤ new pilot study indicates a mobile health application, designed for use within community self-help groups, is both feasible and acceptable for addressing depression among women in rural India, and demonstrates preliminary evidence ⁢of effectiveness. Teh findings, published today, offer a potential scalable solution to a critical mental health gap in underserved populations.

The Multiuser Interactive ⁢Health Response application (MITHRA) – ⁤built on the principles‌ of behavioral activation – ⁢utilizes audio,⁣ video, and touchscreen technology to overcome barriers related to illiteracy and limited access to customary mental healthcare. Developed collaboratively ‌with end-users,MITHRA is deployed on tablets within existing women’s self-help groups (shgs),community-based organizations common in India. This approach leverages established⁤ social networks to deliver accessible mental health support.

Researchers conducted a randomized controlled trial, assigning six SHGs to ⁢either the MITHRA intervention or enhanced usual care (EUC), where participants received a single educational module on depression symptoms. Women in both⁢ groups completed the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) during SHG meetings, and were assigned modules within MITHRA based on their scores. ‌the study focused on assessing feasibility,acceptability,and preliminary effectiveness.

Results showed high completion rates, with 96% of participants in ⁢the MITHRA group completing at ‌least half of their⁢ assigned modules. While‌ the study was not powered for definitive effectiveness conclusions,researchers observed statistically significant improvements‍ in depressive symptoms (PHQ-9,P=.037) and functioning (World Health Organization Disability Assessment Scale, P=.005) at six months in the‌ MITHRA group compared to the EUC group.

“MITHRA is feasible and acceptable for use in women’s SHGs,” the study concludes, recommending larger trials to further evaluate its ⁤effectiveness. The research highlights the potential of mobile technology to bridge the gap in mental healthcare access for vulnerable populations, particularly in resource-constrained settings.

Keywords: community-based; depression; mobile mental‌ health; rural; women.

October 2, 2025 0 comments

World

App Provider Rankings Reveal Top Digital Coupon Apps

by Priya Shah – Business Editor September 8, 2025

written by Priya Shah – Business Editor

App Provider Rankings Reveal Gains for Digital Coupon & Rewards ‌Platforms

NEW YORK – September ⁣8, 2025 – Recent rankings of app providers show positive momentum for platforms focused on delivering savings to consumers, with Flipp, Shopkick, and Groupon all experiencing notable gains. The developments signal⁣ a continued consumer focus on ⁤value ‌and affordability, particularly within‌ the grocery and leisure sectors.

A⁢ new‌ partnership is equipping local grocers with tools to ‌better compete with larger⁤ retailers. Grocers will gain access to analytics, creative services, ⁤and shopper insights to improve customer ⁤targeting and loyalty. The collaboration aims to modernize marketing⁣ and customer engagement for family-owned supermarkets without increasing ‍costs.

Alongside this, Shopkick, a retail rewards app launched in 2009, saw a surprising three-point‍ increase in its ranking.‍ The app allows ‍users to earn credits toward digital gift cards by visiting stores, scanning barcodes, and completing other⁣ activities. According to Finance‌ Buzz,shopkick has been downloaded by 30 million people,with millions of daily active users. Participating retailers include Walmart,⁤ Food Lion, Walgreens, Ulta Beauty, Publix, Aldi, Lowe’s, Best Buy, eBay,⁢ Groupon, hallmark, ‌Hotels.com, Kellogg’s,⁤ Marshalls,‌ P&G, Starbucks, ‍T.J. Maxx, and ⁣more. Recent positive user‌ reviews appear to be driving the app’s success.⁢

“From start ⁣to finish, my experience with‌ this company was excellent,” ‌one user wrote on Trustpilot. “They deliver exactly what they promise – timely service, professional dialog⁢ and genuine care for their clients. What stood out⁢ most to ⁣me⁢ was ‍their consistency: every interaction⁤ felt thoughtful, respectful⁤ and efficient. It’s rare to find a⁢ company⁣ that balances professionalism with ‌a personal⁤ touch, but ⁣they nailed it. I left feeling confident, supported and well taken care of.”

Groupon also posted a three-point gain, reaching a score of 68. This increase is potentially linked to the company’s “Big Days Out” summer event, held June ⁣2-13. The promotion offered discounts on activities ⁤like arcade⁣ games, boat rides, and water parks, aiming to make‌ family outings more affordable.‍ Groupon CEO Dusan Senkypl stated the goal was to help people enjoy summer ⁤without overspending. ‍ During the ‍campaign, Groupon pledged to ‍contribute $1 to the Boys & girls Clubs of Chicago for every deal purchased, up to a total of⁤ $10,000, funded directly by Groupon.

September 8, 2025 0 comments

World

Loyalty Programs: How Brands Can Earn Customer Trust in a Digital Age

by Priya Shah – Business Editor August 26, 2025

written by Priya Shah – Business Editor

Loyalty Programs Enter New Era Driven by AI,‌ real-Time‍ Personalization

NEW YORK – August 26, 2024 – ‍Customer loyalty is undergoing a rapid transformation, moving beyond conventional points-based systems to embrace real-time ⁤personalization powered by artificial intelligence ‌(AI), according to industry ⁢expert Alex⁢ Vladic. the shift ⁣is driven by evolving consumer expectations ⁢- shaped‍ by experiences with platforms like Netflix and spotify – and a willingness to share data in exchange⁣ for tangible benefits.⁣ This⁤ evolution promises a “win-win-win” for brands and consumers ⁢alike, but requires investment in modern technology‌ and a commitment to⁢ authentic engagement.

The modern loyalty landscape demands a level of personalization previously unattainable, Vladic explained. Consumers now ⁤expect experiences tailored ‍to their individual ⁢preferences, delivered⁢ at the optimal moment through the⁣ most relevant channel.⁢ “just think about Netflix, Spotify,” he said. “Algorithms build personalized playlists in real time. That’s now the ⁤expectation for loyalty too.”

This demand is coupled with ‌a⁣ growing consumer openness to data sharing, ‌provided there’s a clear value proposition ⁢and ‌trust in how that data is utilized.”Consumers ⁣are also more willing to share first-party data if they see a clear benefit and⁤ trust how‌ it’s used,” Vladic noted. This data fuels the ability to deliver more ‌targeted offers, increasing⁣ their effectiveness and strengthening customer relationships.

AI:‌ From⁢ Hype to Core Functionality

To achieve this ‍scale ⁣of personalization, brands are increasingly turning to AI. Vladic believes AI’s application within the loyalty industry is pivotal. “It’s‌ all about‍ segmenting the customer base and personalizing the experience,” he stated.While⁤ AI won’t replace human loyalty⁤ marketers, ‌it will considerably enhance their capabilities. AI-powered tools promise‌ more dynamic, real-time ‍customer segmentation ‍and offer personalization, ‍allowing for a more responsive and effective loyalty strategy. Tho, Vladic cautioned that the technology is still developing. “It’s going to be a journey,” he ⁣said. “But the promise of being able to ‌deliver the right reward to the right customer in real time is really exciting.”

A crucial⁢ component of this AI-driven approach is continuous customer feedback. Vladic⁣ emphasized the importance of “active listening,” moving beyond⁢ annual surveys to consistently monitor customer sentiment. “Customers are ⁣giving feedback daily, weekly, monthly,” he ⁢said. ”It’s critical for brands to⁤ actively listen and ‌adjust.” ‍ This constant feedback loop allows brands to refine ⁤their personalization efforts and ensure they are meeting evolving customer needs.

Addressing Industry Challenges & ‌Future Outlook

The transition isn’t without its hurdles. Many companies⁤ are⁢ grappling with outdated technology infrastructure that struggles to support these advanced capabilities. Though,⁢ Vladic sees this as⁢ an opportunity for innovation.

Recent advancements in real-time payment-with-points capabilities are just the beginning,he believes. The loyalty landscape is actively “being rewritten,” and those who invest in authentic, personalized, and technology-driven programs stand to reap significant rewards.

This shift represents a fundamental change in how ‍brands approach ⁢customer retention. ⁤It’s⁤ no longer enough ⁣to simply offer rewards; loyalty⁤ must be earned through genuine understanding and proactive engagement.The future ‌of loyalty lies in creating mutually‌ beneficial relationships built on data-driven insights and a⁣ commitment to delivering exceptional, personalized experiences.

Key Missing Details & Context Added:

Breaking News Lead: Added a current-date ⁣lead to frame the ⁢article ⁢as ‌a developing⁤ story.
Expanded ⁣Context: Elaborated on the why ‌ behind the shift ⁣- the changing consumer expectations and the impact⁣ of platforms‌ like Netflix and Spotify. emphasis on Authenticity: Highlighted the importance of authentic engagement alongside technology, recognizing that‍ personalization without‍ genuine connection can be ineffective.
Industry Challenges: Explicitly mentioned the challenge ‍of aging technology stacks as ‍a⁢ barrier to adoption.
Future Implications: Expanded⁤ on⁢ the potential benefits of‌ successful implementation, framing‍ it⁤ as⁣ a “win-win-win” scenario.
Stronger Narrative⁣ Flow: Restructured the information for a more logical ⁣and engaging read.

August 26, 2025 0 comments

World

UK Regulator Proposes New Rules for Apple and Google’s Mobile Platforms

by Lucas Fernandez – World Editor July 24, 2025

written by Lucas Fernandez – World Editor

The UK’s Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) is signaling new regulations for mobile platforms operated by Apple and Google. This development follows a CMA study that concluded the policies of both tech giants were hindering innovation within the UK’s digital market.

Oliver Bethell, Google’s Head of Competition, expressed disappointment with the CMA’s proclamation, labeling it “unwarranted.” he highlighted Android‘s estimated savings for developers, stating, “We estimate that Android has saved developers over 1 million days they would otherwise spend adapting to different operating models for each smartphone – the equivalent of [300 million pounds (about $408 million)] in reduced costs.” Bethell emphasized the need for any new regulations to be “evidence-based, proportionate and does not become a roadblock to growth in the U.K.”

An Apple spokesperson voiced concerns that the proposed rules could compromise user privacy and security, impede innovation, and potentially force the company to offer its technology without charge to international competitors.

The CMA’s move is enabled by a new “digital markets competition regime” that came into effect on January 1st. This regime empowers the CMA to designate companies with “strategic market status” in specific digital activities and to implement conduct requirements or pro-competition measures. The CMA announced in January its intention to launch new investigations into Big Tech companies under this new framework.

July 24, 2025 0 comments

World

UK Watchdog Shutters 1,600 Unlawful Financial Services Websites

by Priya Shah – Business Editor July 10, 2025

written by Priya Shah – Business Editor

The United Kingdom’s Financial Conduct Authority shuttered over 1,600 websites last year suspected of promoting financial services without permission.

The sites were either suspended, removed or blocked as part of an ongoing anti-financial crime effort, according to a Thursday (July 10) press release issued with the FCA’s annual report.

“Our annual report shows how we’ve laid the strongest possible foundation from which to implement our new strategy,” FCA Chair Ashley Alder said in the release. “We’ll build on this over the next five years to deepen trust and rebalance risk so we can support growth and improve lives.”

In addition to shutting down the websites, the FCA worked with Big Tech platforms, leading to more than 50 apps being pulled from Google Play and Apple’s App Storehelping to “block fraud at source,” per the release.

New technology also helped the FCA identify companies that did not meet its standards earlier and at scale, the release said. Last year, the regulator took steps to make sure nearly 20,000 non-compliant financial promotions were amended or withdrawn by authorized firms. In 2021, that number was fewer than 600.

In addition, the FCA took action against illegal financial promotions by unauthorized “Finefluers” and canceled the authorizations of more than 1,500 firms, 20% more than in 2023 and more than triple the number in 2021, per the release.

“We’ve embraced data and technology to crack down on harm and ensure high standards,” FCA CEO Nikhil rathi said in the release.

Rathi said the regulator’s strategy has led to achievements such as the biggest changes to listing rules in more than 30 years and making it easier for companies to raise capital.

In other fraud prevention news, PYMNTS examined the role tokenization plays in anti-fraud efforts in an interview Thursday with Valeri Vanourekvice president of digital products at Discover® Network.

“Securing data via tokenization ensures that it is useless to fraudsters or criminals if they obtain it,” Vanourek said.

That data security can add up to fewer fraud incidents and better authorization rates when network tokens are in the mix.

July 10, 2025 0 comments

Mobile Applications

WhatsApp Launches Full Apple Watch App, Bringing⁢ Messaging to Your Wrist

Mobile App Shows Promise in Addressing‍ Depression Among Rural Indian Women

App Provider Rankings Reveal Gains for Digital Coupon & Rewards ‌Platforms

Loyalty​ Programs Enter New Era Driven by AI,‌ real-Time‍ Personalization

Loyalty Programs Enter New Era Driven by AI,‌ real-Time‍ Personalization