Social Media

WhatsApp now forced to share data with Facebook

No more opt-out option

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For years, Facebook has notoriously misused its users’ data, prompting several legal actions in numerous countries including the United States. However, though Facebook’s own reputation plummeted, the company’s sibling platforms got through relatively unscathed. That, unfortunately, was always going to change. Now, despite previous promises to the contrary, WhatsApp is now requiring users to share their data with Facebook.

Today, the messaging company updated its privacy policy. WhatsApp must now share all its data with other Facebook companies. This will include all identifying information including IP addresses, phone data, location data, and possibly even payment data. Naturally, this also covers the basics such as messages and contacts. As expected, WhatsApp states that the information is used only for analytic purposes.

Starting on February 8, users have no choice but to agree to the terms. There is no opt-out option. It’s either say yes or uninstall the app.

The update rolls out globally except in the European Union. The region’s stricter GDPR policies prevent internet companies from sharing their data with other parties. Unfortunately, other regions have not implemented similar policies.

Years ago, WhatsApp promised minimal data sharing between companies, marking a difference from Facebook’s more invasive policies. However, with Facebook’s renewed drive to simplify its platforms, both Instagram and WhatsApp are now drawn into Facebook’s web. Already, Facebook has simplified both apps’ messaging system into one ecosystem.

SEE ALSO: Facebook might be forced to sell Instagram and WhatsApp

Entertainment

BINI, KATSEYE among top worldwide Google Searches ahead of Coachella

Coachella to kick off this weekend

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Graphics by Vincenz Lee | GadgetMatch

BINI and KATSEYE topped recent Google Search trends ahead of their Coachella performances this month.

It’s clear that Coachella attendees are curious about the popular Philippine pop girl group, as well as the Los Angeles-based global girl group.

That’s aside from dedicated BLOOMs who are eager to see Aiah, Colet, Maloi, Gwen, Stacey, Mikha, Jhoanna, and Sheena take part in the legendary California music festival on Friday, April 10.

According to Google Trends data, global searches for the term “BINI Coachella” hit a perfect
score of 100 on April 8.

This indicates that the search term briefly became the highest-ranking search trend.

Meanwhile, “KATSEYE Coachella” scored 98 on April 7 on Google Trends, followed by a perfect 100 on April 8.

The timing of KATSEYE’s new single, “PINKY UP” couldn’t have been better as it dropped just a day before their Sahara stage set.

At the same time, the Filipino octet has also released “Blush” as their new comeback song — just hours ahead of KATSEYE.

As such, EYEKONS have also been scouring the interwebs for the global girl group.

And as these are worldwide search data, the recent Google Search trends somewhat prove these artists are effectively breaking through the global mainstream, and introducing their respective cultures to the global stage.

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Social Media

ZOOP, a new social platform, to launch soon

Platform to host dedicated Eurovision Song Contest Asia channel during launch

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A new social platform built around creators, fans, and communities will launch globally on April 9. It is called ZOOP, and the launch will coincide with a dedicated Eurovision Song Contest Asia channel.

ZOOP positions itself as a challenger to the likes of Meta (Facebook, Instagram) and TikTok. It is designed so creators keep more of the value they generate — up to 80% of revenue, and potentially up to 50 times more than on traditional platforms.

Additionally, fans also get rewarded for meaningful engagement. ZOOP says it has already attracted nearly 1 million users via its web version, beta tests, and waitlist ahead of launch.

Securing a partnership with Eurovision Song Contest Asia as its exclusive social partner is a bold first move. And it isn’t just random; ZOOP plans to host dedicated channels, communities, competitions, voting and rewards around major cultural moments.

ZOOP is powered by Hedera for scalable, low-cost, and transparent participation. The social media platform also has an exclusive global rewards partnership with TLC Worldwide across more than 50 countries.

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Maris Racal’s lewd messages are a treasure trove for thirst trap captions

She’s now etched as a meme material for generations

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After an accidental wine night, I almost drunk-texted my long-term, long-distance, low-commitment casual boyfriend — until I saw Jam Villanueva’s screenshots splashed all over Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and everywhere else.

In case you’re out of the loop, Villanueva is now the ex-girlfriend of Filipino actor Anthony Jennings, who’s allegedly caught in a sizzling affair with his co-star Maris Racal. The drama allegedly unfolded while Jennings and Racal filmed Incognito.

This tea is extra spicy because Racal, months ago, split with long-term boyfriend Rico Blanco, who insisted Jennings wasn’t involved. But as they say, time tells all — and honestly, the math isn’t mathing.

Cue me, waking up with wine-stained teeth and fresh eyes (still a little red from the wine).

Suddenly, the Racal-Jennings affair felt less like a scandal and more like a masterclass in thirst trap captions. Because honestly, those lewd texts? They’re a treasure trove for Instagram, TikTok, and maybe even Bumble.

So, to save you the trouble of scrolling through messy screenshots, I’ve rounded up the best lines and how to use them — because you deserve captions as hot as you are.

“can we delete msgs?”

Best used for: smokin’ hot mirror selfies with an air of mystery. Bonus points if you’re holding the hand of someone — but don’t hard-launch them just yet.

P.S. Let it actually be your man. We don’t condone home-wrecking here.

“come be my pillow”

This one’s for those sultry bedtime selfies where your makeup or skincare glow is fire. A literal thirst trap, no explanation needed.

“you look so tired i wanna baby u”

Perfect for an irresistible photo meant to elicit a DM from your crush. Just make sure they’re single, because you’re better than a messy love triangle.

“not ready for ‘I love yous'”

For my commitment-free girlies. Use this when you’re traveling solo or just out here thriving, reminding the world you’re too fabulous to settle but still worth worshipping.

“that was so hot”

Post this after a fiery gym session, a post-run selfie, or a beach pic in that new swimsuit that has you feeling yourself.

“smoke then f*ck”

For your night-out pics in that dress — the one you wear when you’re ready to dominate the club (or the smoking area).

“really wanna smoke tonight”

Best paired with a sultry balcony shot overlooking a city skyline. Bathrobes optional but recommended.

“you’re sexy in person”

Mysterious but bold, this line shines with photos where you’re giving just enough. Think: covered face, fine body. Let them wonder.

“wish this night was longer”

For those cozy-yet-sexy bedtime shots in lingerie or silk. Keep it ambiguous: are you pining for someone, or just enjoying your own glow?

“but i like being held by you”

The ultimate flirt caption. Post with a smokin’ hot selfie, and trust me, the right person will slide into your DMs. And maybe, sliding something else soon.

“i’ll touch myself”

For the queens who know their worth and take pride in self-love. Celebrate you and your right to the Big O.

“you forgot your sweater”

An iconic caption for pics with no clothes on (or strategically placed blankets). Your crush should leave their sweater behind for you to sniff like a rom-com heroine.

“u miss my body?”

An iconic caption for when your photo is that good — so good, even you’re turning yourself on.

“i want baby kisses”

For the flirty queens who love a little harmless attention. Best paired with mirror selfies that focus on your glowing face and just enough of your upper body to keep them hooked. You’re not looking for love; you’re just reminding them who’s the moment.

With all these fire captions, remember: they’re for you

These captions are for self-love, not stolen love. Validate your glow, hype your body, and own your moment — but never send them to someone else’s boyfriend. We’ve all been Jam Villanueva, and trust me, you don’t want to be on the receiving end of that kind of heartbreak.

So, channel your inner diva and let them wish they had a chance. Stay confident, stay hot, and keep it classy. You’re better than a messy affair.

SEE ALSO: How to make your crush view your Instagram Story | 3 reasons why Tinder is the best travel app | 6 shows on Netflix with hot sex scenes | 10 films to Netflix and chill to

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