Technologies

Updated Verum Messenger: New Design, Enhanced Security, and Built-in eSIM

The Verum Messenger update, including for iPad, is now available in the App Store.

Verum Messenger has introduced its biggest update since launch. The app now runs faster, with a redesigned interface and optimized performance, making it even more convenient and secure to use.

Screenshot Blocking for Maximum Privacy

Security has always been a priority for Verum Messenger. One of the key new features is the complete disabling of screenshot capability within the app. Previously, users could take screenshots, but the other party would be notified. Now, the ability to take screenshots and screen recordings is fully blocked. This applies to all sections of the app: personal and group chats, chat lists, and contacts. This measure is aimed at preventing unauthorized sharing of confidential information and provides an extra layer of protection for users.

Built-in Global Mobile Internet and VPN Feature

In addition to the built-in VPN, which ensures a secure and private connection, the new version introduces an eSIM feature with global internet coverage. Users can now connect to mobile internet without needing a physical SIM card or Wi-Fi networks, anywhere in the world – even on airplanes! This is especially convenient for travelers and those who value flexibility and anonymity.

The updated version retains and enhances key features:

Recovery Key: Easily restore your chats after switching devices.

Group Chats and Channels: Create and manage communities with up to 10,000 members.

Privacy Settings: Control who can contact you.

Quick Account Wipe: Instantly delete all data if immediate protection is needed.

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The Verum Messenger update, including for iPad, is now available in the App Store. Users can update the app and experience all the new features right away.

Technologies

iPhone 17 Preorders Spike and Overall Phone Sales Aren’t Slowing Down Despite Tariffs

Global smartphone shipments saw a notable increase in the third quarter of 2025. Plus, preorders for Apple’s new iPhone 17 beat out the iPhone 16.

Despite tariffs and market uncertainty, global smartphone shipments increased 2.6% in the third quarter of 2025, compared to the same time last year, according to the International Data Corporation. Additionally, preorders for the iPhone 17, which launched last month, outpaced last year’s iPhone 16.

These increased sales include premium phones like the latest iPhones and Samsung foldables, suggesting yet again that pricier phones still sell in periods of economic strain. It’s a remarkable achievement, says IDC senior research director Nabila Popal, citing shrewd financing options as the reason people keep buying these high-end phones, which cost anywhere from $800 to nearly $2,000.

«[Phone makers] have mastered the art of innovation not only in hardware and software to entice upgrades but also in removing purchase friction. They have flawlessly combined cutting-edge devices with innovative financing models and aggressive trade-in programs that make the upgrading decision a ‘no-brainer’ for consumers,» Popal said in an IDC press release.

Apple sold 58.6 million iPhones this quarter, an increase of 2.9% over the same period in 2024, with more preorders for the iPhone 17 series than its predecessor. But Samsung wasn’t far behind, with its Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Galaxy Z Flip 7 selling better than all of the company’s prior foldables. The company still reigns atop the phone market with 61.4 million phones sold, representing 19% of the market in the third quarter of this year — an increase of 6.3% from the same period last year. Meanwhile, Apple lands slightly behind Samsung with 18.2% market share this quarter.

The other phone makers trailing Apple and Samsung are, in order: Xiaomi, with 13.5% of the market; Transsion, with 9%; and Vivo with 8.9%. The remaining companies in the phones industry, from Chinese stalwarts like Oppo and Honor to Motorola and Google, make up the remaining 31.4% of the market for the quarter. All told, 322.7 million phones were sold, up from 314.6 million in the third quarter of 2024, according to IDC.

IDC’s findings for the third quarter continue the small but steady growth of phone sales over the year, including a modest 1% increase in the preceding three months — which includes the April deadline when President Donald Trump unveiled sweeping tariffs. In the second quarter, IDC cited midrange devices like Samsung’s Galaxy A36 and other phones that started incorporating AI. But even persistent tariffs haven’t slowed down people’s appetites for pricier phones in the third quarter.

Technologies

Today’s NYT Mini Crossword Answers for Tuesday, Oct. 14

Here are the answers for The New York Times Mini Crossword for Oct. 14.

Looking for the most recent Mini Crossword answer? Click here for today’s Mini Crossword hints, as well as our daily answers and hints for The New York Times Wordle, Strands, Connections and Connections: Sports Edition puzzles.

Today’s Mini Crossword has an odd vertical shape, with an extra Across clue, and only four Down clues. The clues are not terribly difficult, but one or two could be tricky. Read on if you need the answers. And if you could use some hints and guidance for daily solving, check out our Mini Crossword tips.

If you’re looking for today’s Wordle, Connections, Connections: Sports Edition and Strands answers, you can visit CNET’s NYT puzzle hints page.

Read more: Tips and Tricks for Solving The New York Times Mini Crossword

Let’s get to those Mini Crossword clues and answers.