DoJ files a motion to force Apple to comply with FBI iPhone backdoor request

In response to Apple's denial to allow a backdoor access on an iPhone used in a terrorist attack in San Bernandino, the US Department of Justice has filed a motion to compel Apple to create firmware that would allow the FBI to brute force access into iPhones. Apple has three days to reply to the order.

Apple CEO Tim Cook posted a public letter this week to Apple's website explaining why creating a backdoor tool for the iPhone would set a dangerous precedent. Other technology CEOs, namely Google's Sundar Pichai and executives from Twitter and Facebook have backed Apple's stand. Apple has stressed that it has in the passed turned over subpoenaed information under request as well as allowed its engineers and their expertise to serve as consultants to various government and security agencies, however the creation of a tool that can be used to crack the encryption of the iPhone would be a dangerous precedent.

Source: 9to5Mac

Google officially drops Google+ sign-ins for Play Games

Google has decoupled Google+ from yet another one of its services. You no longer have to use your Google+ account to access Google Play Games (which we reported a bit about earlier). Now, you’ll get a new Gamer ID that you can setup right from the Google Play Games app. It even lets you choose from over 40 avatars to accompany your account. This Gamer ID is linked to your email and you can decide if you want your activity public or private.

The new sign-in process is also in place, which only requires you to enter your account credentials once per account instead of per game. If you haven’ tried Google Play Games yet, you’ll be prompted to pick a Gamer ID when you enter the app. If you’re an existing user, you’ll be prompted to create a Gamer ID from a Play-integrated title.

Source: Official Android Blog | Via: Engadget

Samsung to stream Galaxy S7 launch on Gear VR

If you own a Gear VR, you can watch Samsung’s MWC launch of the Galaxy S7 in virtual reality. What you’ll need to have is a Samsung device and a Gear VR (of course). You would also need to download the Unpacked 360 View app from the Oculus Store. Once Sunday comes, all you need to do is open the app and watch the new Galaxy devices be presented to you in all its VR glory.

If you don’t have the VR headset and don’t particularly care for it, you can still stream it right from your desktop or download the same app from Google Play. And no, you don’t have to be a Samsung user to access the app.

Source: Droid Life

Vimeo adds Chromecast support for Android app

It’s a strange thing. Why it took Vimeo almost a year before it brought Chromecast support for its Android app when they released it for their iOS app in February of 2015. Better late than never, we guess. Now, the Android app is at par with iOS app as it’ll let you beam whatever you’re watching on your Chromecast-powered TV or monitor.

Source: Engadget