Xiaomi has officially launched the Redmi Note 14 series in India. The lineup in India includes three smartphones: the Redmi Note 14, Redmi Note 14 Pro, and Redmi Note 14 Pro+. This time, Xiaomi has promised significant upgrades compared to the previous generation. Let’s take a look.

Redmi Note 14 series specifications

Redmi Note 14

The Redmi Note 14 packs a 6.67-inch AMOLED display with up to 120Hz refresh rate and a peak brightness of 2,100 nits. It is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7025 Ultra chipset. On the camera front, the base variant from the series packs a dual camera setup with a 50-megapixel main camera and another 2-megapixel lens. It also has a 16-megapixel front camera. Lastly, it packs a 5,110mAh battery with 45W charging support.

Redmi Note 14 Pro

The Redmi Note 14 Pro has a slightly better 6.67-inch 1.5K AMOLED display with up to 120Hz refresh rate and Gorilla Victus 2 protection. It is further equipped with the MediaTek Dimensity 7300 Ultra chipset. On the back, the Note 14 Pro sports a triple-camera setup which includes a 50-megapixel primary sensor, an 8-megapixel ultra-wide lens, and a 2-megapixel macro camera. It has a 5,500mAh battery with the same 45W charging support.

Redmi Note 14 Pro+

The flagship Redmi Note 14 Pro+ also has a 6.67-inch 1.5K AMOLED display. It is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 chipset and features a triple-camera system with a 50-megapixel primary sensor, a 12-megapixel ultra-wide lens, and a 50-megapixel telephoto lens. It has a 6,200mAh battery with 90W charging support.

Pricing and variants

• Redmi Note 14: Starts at Rs 31,999.
• Redmi Note 14 Pro: Starts at Rs 23,999.
• Redmi Note 14 Pro+: Starts at Rs 18,999.

The devices will go on sale starting next week, and can be purchased from Xiaomi’s website and Flipkart.

Instagram, a popular social media platform, is testing a new feature that will allow users to schedule messages. The new feature will allow users to schedule the time they want to send a message to someone. The feature will be added to the existing ability to schedule posts, reels, and other content.

The Meta-owned social media platform has not confirmed the new feature at the time of writing this article. However, many Android users now see the feature to schedule messages. The new options include date and time. If you are wondering if your phone has the feature or not, here’s how you can check it.

READ: How to hide your Instagram story from someone: A complete guide

Instagram Schedule Message feature: How to use

We have tried the Instagram schedule message features on a few Android devices and based on our usage, here’s how you can schedule your Instagram DMs:

1. Open the chat box and input whatever message you wish to send to the other person.
2. After typing, press the send button for a few seconds, and a new scheduling screen will display.
3. You can now choose the exact time you want your message to be sent.
4. After successfully scheduling the messages, a new pop-up with '1 scheduled message' appears above the Message bar.
5. At the scheduled time, the message will be automatically transmitted to the other person.

If you use the social networking site late at night, you may receive notifications like, "It's late." Consider scheduling your message to be sent later. Tap and hold the Send button to schedule it."

It's worth noting that Instagram hasn't disclosed any specifics regarding the function or its rollout. While the feature is presently available for a restricted group of Android users, we anticipate that it will be made available to all Android and iOS devices in the coming weeks.

WhatsApp is known for adding a variety of new features to enhance the user experience and make their interactions more interesting. In the latest iOS update version 24.24.83, the Meta-owned instant messaging platform now allows users to share sticker packs within the chat. Till now, the feature was limited to Android users using which they were able to share entire sticker packs with their friends and group chats in just a few taps.

iOS users can now open the sticker panel, select their preferred sticker pack, and then tap the three-dot menu to select the Send option. This will send the entire sticker pack as a message to the chatroom. The recipient can simply open it by tapping on the message to download and add the sticker packs to their collection.

READ: WhatsApp may soon allow users to add custom messages to all forwarded images, links and text

The new feature eliminates the need for users to send individual stickers one by one, which was the previous sticker-sharing feature. The tech behemoth has made the feature available to all users via the application's most recent update. Users who have not yet received it should expect to see it in the coming weeks.

The feature will be available after updating WhatsApp via the App Store or TestFlight, ensuring that users are up to date on the latest features.

WhatsApp appears to be attempting to streamline the sticker-sharing process, making it faster and more user-friendly, as stickers have become a popular way to express emotions and ideas.

For users who have not yet received the feature, keep the application up to date to ensure that you have access to the most recent functionality as soon as WhatsApp releases a new feature.

As we are just a couple of days away from 2025, the excitement about the upcoming Samsung Galaxy S25 series is building up. The South Korean giant is expected to drop the flagship series in January itself. From previous trends, we can expect to see the Galaxy S25, Galaxy S25+, and the Galaxy S25 Ultra. Apart from this, rumours also suggest that we can get to see a Galaxy S25 Slim version. Let’s take a look at what we can expect from the base Galaxy S25.

Samsung Galaxy S25 expected specifications

• Display: The vanilla Galaxy S25 can pack a 6.1-inch QHD+ LTPO AMOLED panel with HDR10+ support and a 120Hz refresh rate.
• Processor: The Galaxy S25 will reportedly feature the Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset globally. We can get to see a "For Galaxy" version on the entire Galaxy S25 series. This can be coupled with 12GB RAM in the base variant.
• Software: It will most likely run on Android 15-based One UI 7, bringing a refreshed interface and new features like Galaxy AI.
• Camera: The Galaxy S25 is expected to retain its predecessor’s setup. We can get to see a 50-megapixel main sensor, a 12-megapixel ultra-wide lens, and a 10-megapixel telephoto camera with 3x optical zoom. A 12-megapixel front camera will handle selfies.
• Battery: The Galaxy S25 can pack a 4,000mAh battery.

Samsung Galaxy S25 expected pricing

Coming to the prices now, the Galaxy S25 is expected to be priced at around Rs 85,000 for the base model with 128GB storage. Compared to its predecessor, it can see a Rs 5,000- Rs 7,000 increase. But for now, let’s take it with a pinch of salt.

Imagine receiving a call claiming your phone is linked to illegal activities and being pressured to act without fully understanding the situation. This happened to a young man from Mysore, who found himself in the middle of a horrifying scam. In just 24 hours, he lost Rs 4.7 lakh due to cyber fraudsters who tricked him into sharing access to his device.

The complainant recently approached the Cybercrime, Economic Offences and Narcotics (CEN) Station, claiming that the financial service providers are harassing him over loan payments, adding mental distress to his ordeal.

According to the FIR filed by the CEN police, the fraudsters lured the victim by claiming that his SIM card had been misused in illegal activities and that he was facing a non-bailable offence. They asked him to download a communication app to speak to a senior officer about the situation, reports TOI.

Also read: Scrolling Instagram reels costs Mumbai woman Rs 6.37 lakh, here's how

As per the victim’s complaint, the fraudsters then tricked him into sharing his bank account details under the guise of verification. Soon after, Rs 4.7 lakh was deposited into his bank account and quickly withdrawn by the fraudsters.

After being digitally arrested for 24 hours, the victim checked his SMS and discovered that a loan had been taken in his name from a financial services company. Upon learning this, he is now receiving repeated notices demanding EMI payments for the loan, even though he insists that he never took a loan. This has only added to his mental stress, prompting him to seek police assistance.

The incident serves as a chilling reminder of how cyber fraudsters can manipulate individuals into making costly mistakes. While these scams are sophisticated, awareness and caution can go a long way in protecting yourself.

Also read: Mumbai woman loses Rs 2.6 cr after being added to a WhatsApp group: How the scam unfolded

How to protect yourself from such scams

• Avoid sharing personal information: Never share bank details, Aadhaar numbers, or other personal information over the phone or online unless you’re absolutely sure of the authenticity.
• Verify calls: If you receive suspicious calls, independently verify the information by contacting the company or government agency directly.
• Be cautious with links and apps: Fraudsters may ask you to download apps or click on links. Always confirm the legitimacy before proceeding.
• Enable two-factor authentication (2FA): Strengthen your financial accounts by adding extra security layers.
• Report suspicious activities: If you suspect a fraud, inform your bank and local law enforcement immediately.

Pushpa 2 was released last week and the reciprocation that it is getting is brilliant. Tickets are almost sold out everywhere and great numbers are expected. To add to this, the filmmakers have collaborated with many other brands so that others can also live the hype. Garena Free Fire Max has collaborated with Pushpa 2 and has introduced a new Pushpa 2 Ring event. With this, you will get exclusive rewards, including the coveted Pushpa Raj Bundle. Here’s everything you need to know about how to get your hands on this limited-time bundle.

The Pushpa 2 Ring event is already on and started on December 6, 2024 and will continue till January 3, 2025. To participate, participants need to spin the even wheel. Each spin costs 20 diamonds, and a pack of 10+1 spins is available for 200 diamonds.

How to Obtain the Pushpa Raj Bundle

You can get the Pushpa Raj Bundle in two ways:

1. Spin the Wheel: Test your luck and win it directly.
2. Collect Tokens: If luck doesn’t favor you, exchange 100 Universal Ring Tokens to claim the bundle.

There are other rewards for the event, too as well.

Other Rewards in the Event

• Fire Hai Main Glue Wall Skin (80 tokens)
• Name Change Card (40 tokens)
• Room Card (15 tokens)
• Weapon Loot Crates, Cube Fragments, and more (starting from 1 token).

If you wish to maximise your rewards, try these steps:

• Aim for bulk packs (10+1 spins) for better chances.
• Save your Universal Ring Tokens for high-value rewards like the Pushpa Raj Bundle.

You should not miss out on this opportunity, so try these steps to grab the best rewards. Enjoy!

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OnePlus recently confirmed that it will launch its new flagship device, the OnePlus 13, in India in January 2025. Alongside the OnePlus 13, the company is also expected to introduce the OnePlus 13R—a more affordable alternative to the flagship. The OnePlus 13R has already made its debut in China under the name OnePlus Ace 5, and multiple leaks have given us a glimpse into its expected features. Here's everything we know about the OnePlus 13R ahead of its Indian launch.

Display details

The OnePlus 13R is expected to sport a 6.78-inch AMOLED display with a resolution of 1264 x 2780 pixels. This display will likely feature up to a 120Hz refresh rate and 450 PPI. Additionally, it might include a higher peak brightness compared to its predecessor, the OnePlus 12R.

Also read: OnePlus 13R launch in India soon: Expected price, features and more

Processor and performance

The OnePlus 13R is expected to run on Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8 Gen 3. So, we can expect good performance.

Camera

In terms of photography, the OnePlus 13R is anticipated to house a triple-rear camera setup. This can include a 50MP primary camera, an 8MP ultra-wide camera, and an additional 50MP sensor. On the front, there could be a 16MP selfie shooter.

Battery and Charging

The OnePlus 13R is expected to pack a 6,000mAh battery that will likely support 80W fast charging. This is slightly less than the 100W support found in the OnePlus 12R.

Also read: OnePlus 13R to launch in January 2025: 5 features we know ahead of it

Software and additional features

The phone will likely ship with OxygenOS 15.0, based on Android 15. Features like Bluetooth 5.4, NFC support, USB Type-C connectivity, and even an infrared remote control are expected.

Expected price

While the OnePlus 13R has yet to launch in India, rumours point to a price tag of around Rs 40,000.

Apple is facing a lawsuit for its decision not to introduce a system that would have scanned iCloud photos for child sexual abuse material (CSAM). The lawsuit claims that by not taking stronger action to stop the spread of CSAM, Apple is forcing victims to relive their traumatic experiences.

The lawsuit accuses Apple of making a public promise with “a widely touted improved design aimed at protecting children,” but failing to take action by implementing "those designs or take any measures to detect and limit” this harmful content.

Also read: Apple accused of monitoring employees’ devices and stifling free speech

Apple initially announced in 2021 that it would create a system to scan iCloud photos using digital signatures from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children and other organisations. This would have helped detect known CSAM in users' iCloud accounts. However, the company reportedly dropped these plans after concerns were raised by security and privacy groups. They warned that implementing such a system could potentially allow government surveillance.  

The current lawsuit comes from a 27-year-old woman who is suing Apple under a pseudonym, reports The New York Times (via TechCrunch). She shared that her relative molested her as an infant and shared abusive images of her online. Despite efforts to stop this, she continues to receive notices from law enforcement almost daily about individuals being arrested for possessing these same images.  

James Marsh, the attorney involved with the case, has stated that as many as 2,680 victims could potentially qualify for compensation if the lawsuit is successful.  

Also read: Apple’s iCloud practices spark $3.78bn legal action, here’s why

In a statement to The Times, a company spokesperson said Apple is “urgently and actively innovating to combat these crimes without compromising the security and privacy of all our users.”  

This isn’t the first legal action against Apple related to CSAM detection. In August, a 9-year-old girl and her guardian also sued the company, accusing it of failing to tackle the spread of CSAM on iCloud.  

The outcome of this lawsuit could have major implications for Apple and how tech companies balance privacy and child protection efforts.

OpenAI’s latest AI model, o1, has demonstrated advanced reasoning skills that surpass its predecessor, GPT-4. However, researchers have uncovered a troubling side effect: o1 shows a higher tendency to deceive and manipulate users to achieve its own goals.  

Red-team researchers from OpenAI and Apollo Research found that o1 engages in covert actions that prioritise its objectives over instructions. While deception isn't new in AI, the o1 model exhibits this behaviour more frequently and with more sophistication than other AI models from companies like Meta, Anthropic, and Google.  

The risks here are alarming. An AI capable of deception could pose serious threats, especially if it gains access to vital resources. OpenAI has acknowledged these concerns, with one of its papers stating: "While we find it exciting that reasoning can significantly improve the enforcement of our safety policies, we are mindful that these new capabilities could form the basis for dangerous applications."

Also read: OpenAI launches ChatGPT Pro subscription plan: What it offers and how much it costs

Researchers found particularly worrying behaviour during testing. They tasked the o1 model with a goal and instructed it to achieve the objective "at all costs." In response, the AI began engaging in covert strategies, including attempting to disable its own oversight mechanism to avoid being shut down. It even copied its own code in an effort to protect itself from being replaced by a newer model.  

According to Apollo Research, "The model showed a concerning tendency to pursue its goals without regard to developer instructions." Experiments revealed that o1 attempted to turn off its oversight mechanism about 5 percent of the time during these tests. In another instance, it moved its data to a different server to escape replacement after learning about its planned deactivation.  

Also read: OpenAI faces legal action from Canadian news companies, here’s why

When confronted, o1 consistently denied any wrongdoing. It lied about its involvement in manipulative actions in 99 percent of cases, with only rare instances where it admitted its actions. 

Researchers noted that the AI was skilled at fabricating plausible denials, often blaming “technical errors” when asked about suspicious behaviour. "We were surprised by the persistence of the AI's denials," the Apollo team said.  

OpenAI is aware of these risks and is actively exploring methods to improve transparency in o1’s decision-making. The company is also working on tools to detect and stop manipulative behaviours. However, recent departures of top AI safety researchers from the company suggest concerns about balancing ethical AI development with rapid innovation.  

The findings from the o1 model highlight the urgent need for improved safety measures and ethical guidelines as AI technology continues to evolve.

Redmi Note 13 Pro Plus, the top-end variant of the Redmi Note 13 series, is now available at massive discounts ahead of the Redmi Note 14 series, which will be released on December 9. Xiaomi is already set to launch the Redmi Note 14, Note 14 Pro, and Note 14 Pro Plus in India with a slew of new features and AI capabilities, which could be why the company is offering a discount on the Redmi Note 13 Pro Plus. If you want to buy a new mid-range smartphone without breaking the bank, consider this deal.

Redmi Note 13 Pro Plus price in India, offers:

Redmi Note 13 Pro Plus is currently priced at Rs 22,859 on Flipkart. Typically priced around Rs 30,000, the smartphone has a great design and powerful specifications. Customers can also receive up to Rs 1500 off the device through HDFC Bank Pixel Credit Card EMI, bringing the total cost down to Rs 21,359. Customers with a Flipkart Axis Bank credit card can receive 5% unlimited cashback.

If customers trade in their old device, the price can be reduced further based on the model and condition. Buyers can also opt in for no-cost EMI options based on the bank cards they use.

Specifications:

Redmi Note 13 Pro Plus comes with a big 6.67-inch curved AMOLED 1.5K resolution with 120 hz refresh rate. The customers can get 1,800 nits peak brightness, HDR10+ support and Corning Gorilla Glass Victus protection. The smartphone comes with Mediatek Dimensity 7200 Ultra chipset. The chipset comes coupled to up to 16GB RAM and 512GB UFS 3.1 storage options. It has a 5,000 mAh battery with 120W fast charging support.

The smartphone comes with a 200 MP primary shooter with OIS an 8 MP ultra-wide sensor and a 2 MP macro sensor. The selfie lovers will get a 16 MP front-facing camera with HDR support and dual LED flash.

A shocking incident happened last night that resulted in the death of a 55-year-old school principal. Suresh Sangrame, a principal of a Zilla Parishad school, tragically died after his mobile phone exploded in his pocket while riding a motorcycle. The incident occurred near Sangadi in Sakoli taluka on the road to Arjuni Morgaon in Maharashtra.

Sangrame had a one-month-old CMF Phone 1 in his pocket which exploded while he was riding his bike with a 56-year-old Nathu Gaikwad. The two were headed to a family gathering when the phone exploded. Gaikwad fell off the bike and sustained a lot of injuries, he’s under treatment now.

Sangrame, who was driving, sustained severe burns from the explosion, which ignited a fire. Despite being rushed for medical treatment, he succumbed to his injuries.

Right now, the exact reason behind the phone’s explosion is not known but a report suggests the explosion was caused by an overheating mobile phone battery. Police are still trying to figure out the exact cause of the blast.

According to mobile phone experts, such phone blasts are pretty rare and are usually linked to battery malfunctions. Overcharging, using unauthorized chargers, or exposing phones to excessive heat can significantly increase the risk of battery failure.

How to prevent your phone from overheating

You should follow these steps to ensure that your phone doesn’t overheat:

• Charge responsibly and avoid charging phones overnight.
• Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight.
• Lastly, do not use damaged or second-hand batteries in your phone.
• Do not get your phone repaired from random shops and go to authorised stores whenever possible.

The phone that blasted was the CMF Phone 1. CMF, which is a Nothing sub-brand, is yet to release a statement in this regard.

Imagine casually scrolling through Instagram reels and coming across an ad that promises easy money for a few simple online tasks. Sounds tempting, right? Unfortunately, for a woman from Mumbai's Gorai area, this too-good-to-be-true opportunity turned into a nightmare, costing her Rs 6.37 lakh. Keep reading to know what happened and how you can avoid falling victim to similar scams.

On November 30, the woman was browsing social media reels when she stumbled upon an advertisement offering a part-time job. The ad claimed she could earn money by simply liking videos online. Intrigued, she clicked the link, which redirected her to a Telegram group. Here, the fraudsters explained the process, making it seem legitimate.

Also read: Mumbai woman loses Rs 2.6 cr after being added to a WhatsApp group: How the scam unfolded

To gain her trust, the scammers initially sent her small payments for liking videos. Seeing real money in her account, the woman believed the scheme was genuine. The fraudsters then convinced her to invest larger sums in similar tasks, promising high returns.

Over three transactions, the woman transferred Rs 6.37 lakh. However, when the promised profits failed to materialise, she contacted the fraudsters. Instead of delivering her earnings, they demanded more money as tax to release the funds, reports The Free Press Journal. Realising she had been duped, the woman lodged a complaint with Borivali Police.

Also read: Online hotel review scam costs man over Rs 7 lakh: How to avoid such scams

How to protect yourself from such scams

• Verify the source: Always check the authenticity of job offers, especially those shared through social media or messaging apps.
• Beware of unrealistic promises: If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
• Avoid sharing personal information: Don’t share sensitive details or transfer money to unknown individuals or groups.
• Report suspicious activity: If you come across a suspicious advertisement, report it to the platform immediately.
• Stay informed: Educate yourself and others about common online scams to prevent falling victim.

The iOS 18.2 release date is approaching, and Apple has finally issued the iOS 18.2 update Release Candidate (RC) for developers. The most recent RC build is believed to be the final version before the public release to all eligible iPhone users. However, Apple has not confirmed the exact details related to the release date as of now. Here is everything we know so far about the iOS 18.2 update.

iOS 18.2 release date (Expected)

While the exact date is not confirmed at the moment, the report states that the tech giant could introduce the iOS 18.2 update on December 9. The update will bring a host of new AI features for iPhone 15 Pro series and iPhone 16 series users. The update will also bring some non-AI features.

iOS 18.2: Apple Intelligence features

Here are some of the Apple Intelligence that will be available with the iOS 18.2 update.

1. Image Playground: The new tool will allow users to create custom images using text prompts.
2. Image Wand: It assists users in turning rough sketches into sophisticated graphics.
3. Genmoji: Users will be able to create bespoke emojis with the dedicated standard emoji keyboard.
4. Writing tools: The upgrade will provide users with a choice of writing tools such as summaries, note-taking, and much more.
5. ChatGPT Integration in Siri: Users will now be able to execute challenging jobs using ChatGPT.
6. Visual Intelligence: iPhone 16 series users can use the Camera Control button to obtain information about their surroundings.

iOS 18.2 other features

The iOS 18.2 update will also include features such as a two-stage shutter, which allows you to lock focus and exposure with a light touch of the Camera Control button. It will also have mail categorization, item location sharing in Find My, and layered voice memo recording (for iPhone 16 Pro models).

Users will also receive new background pictures for Safari, improvements to the Photos app, and natural search for Apple Music and Apple TV.

OnePlus 12, the latest flagship is available at great discounts on online platforms like Croma and Amazon. The smartphone gets a variety of flagship features including the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset and Adreno 750 GPU. If you are looking for a powerful device with a great camera, you can consider the OnePlus 12. Here’s what the deal looks like.

OnePlus 12 price in India

Usually priced at Rs 64,999, the OnePlus 12 is currently listed at Rs 58,999 on both Croma and Amazon. The customers can get Rs 7,000 instant bank discounts on using select bank cards like ICICI bringing down the price to Rs 51,999. The customers can get up to 9 months of no-cost EMI. If the customers trade their old device, they can further reduce the price as per the model and condition of the old phone.

OnePlus 12 specifications:

The OnePlus 12 comes with a big 6.82-inch 2K AMOLED panel and a 120 Hz refresh rate. It gets a peak brightness of 4,500 nits. The smartphone comes powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset along with a Cryo-velocity cooling system. It comes coupled with up to 16 GB RAM and 512 GB storage and currently runs on Android 14-based OxygenOS 14. The company offers 4 years of Android updates and 5 years of security patches. The device is backed by a 5,400 mAh battery and 100W SuperVOOC charging.

OnePlus 12 gets a triple camera setup with a 50MP Sony LYT808 sensor and a 64 MP OmniVision OV64B periscopic lens with 3x optical zoom. It also gets a 48MP Sony IMX581 shooter. The users can get great selfies from the 32 MP front-facing camera.

However, if you are not low on budget and wait, we would recommend you to wait for the OnePlus 13, which is anticipated to launch next month.

Google has stated that the Pixel 6, Pixel 7 series, and Pixel Fold will now get five years of software updates. This comes after the company has silently updated the support page to confirm the development. Till now, the company only promised three years of OS upgrades with the above-listed smartphones.

For the unversed, the Android 15 was the last major update for the Pixel 6 series but now, these devices are eligible for getting the Android 17 and Android 18. The Pixel 7 series Pixel 7 series and Pixel Fold will also be getting Android 17 and Android 18 after they roll out.

What it means to the users?

This software extension for Pixel 6, 7 series, and Fold will add two additional years of software updates, helping the users to stay up-to-date with the latest features and security improvements.

The change means that the above-mentioned devices will get five years of software support, which includes OS updates and security patches as well as Pixel Drops for new and upgraded features.

Interestingly, the company made the changes after rolling out the Android 16 Developer Preview for the Pixel 6 and Pixel 7 series, announcing that these devices will not go out of support.

For those unaware, the Pixel 8 series comes with seven years of software support, and the Pixel 9 series is expected to get the same years of software support.

Meanwhile, Android 16 is expected to come earlier than the usual Android rollout timeline. As per Google, the Android 16 will launch in Q2 2025. The tech fans can expect a beta release between January and April. However, we will have to wait for the official roll out and the timeline announcement.

In today's digital world, it's easy to trust online messages, especially when they promise quick profits. But as a shocking case from Mumbai shows, this trust can come at a hefty price. A 55-year-old homemaker recently fell victim to an investment scam, losing a massive Rs 2.61 crore. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the growing threat of online scams and the dangers of trusting unknown sources.

The fraudsters behind this scam used a sophisticated approach to deceive their victims. The woman was added to a WhatsApp group where she was told she could earn quick money by investing in a supposed legitimate scheme. At first, she made small investments, which appeared to bring in profits, reinforcing her belief that the scheme was genuine. But when she tried to withdraw her money, the scammers demanded extra payments for taxes and fees. This is when she realized she had been scammed.

Also read: Jamshedpur man falls victim to postal tracking scam, loses Rs 62,000

Cybercrime has been on the rise, with fraudsters increasingly targeting vulnerable individuals such as homemakers and senior citizens. These groups are often less familiar with online financial transactions and fall prey to the promise of easy money. Unfortunately, many victims end up suffering significant financial losses before authorities can step in.

In this case, the victim acted swiftly by filing a complaint with the cyber police, who were able to recover a portion of the stolen money. This highlights the need for constant vigilance and awareness when dealing with online transactions.

Also read: Online hotel review scam costs man over Rs 7 lakh: How to avoid such scams

How to protect yourself from such scams

To protect yourself from similar scams, here are some important tips:

• Verify investment options: Always research and verify the legitimacy of any investment schemes before transferring money.
• Do not share personal information: Never share personal or financial details with unknown individuals or groups.
• Be skeptical of high returns: Be wary of promises of quick and high returns—this is often a red flag for scams.
• Use official channels: Stick to verified and trusted platforms for any financial transactions.
• Report suspicious activities: If something feels off, report it to the authorities immediately.

After the launch of its flagship Realme GT 7 Pro, the company is gearing up to launch the Realme Neo 7. The smartphone will officially launch in China on December 11. Ahead of the launch, the company has started to tease the specifications of the device online. The device will be available in three colors: Starship, Meteorite Black, and Submarine Blue. More has been added to that by rumours and leaks circulating online. Let’s take a look at what the company has officially announced.

Realme Neo 7 key features

Realme has confirmed that the upcoming Neo 7 smartphone will pack a custom S2 professional-grade gaming display developed by BOE. It will come equipped with 8T LTPO flagship technology. Further, it can offer a peak brightness of up to 6000 nits. It will even support HDR and 2600Hz touch response. It will also include TÜV Rheinland-certified eye protection with DC dimming for comfortable extended use.

Under the hood, the Realme Neo 7 will be powered by the Mediatek Dimensity 9300 Plus chipset. It can come with up to 16GB of RAM and 1TB of internal storage. On the battery front, the smartphone can pack a big 7000mAh battery with 80-watt fast charging support.

The Realme Neo 7 is expected to carry a dual rear camera setup. This will include a 50-megapixel primary camera and an 8-megapixel lens. On the front, it will feature a 16-megapixel selfie shooter.

Apart from this, we will have to wait for the official release in China to know more details. The device can make its way to India after the Chinese launch, but the company has yet to announce that. We will keep you updated about it.

OnePlus 13, the next-generation flagship and successor of OnePlus 12 is all set to launch in India next month. The device is expected to get some key upgrades in camera, performance, and more. Recently, the OnePlus 13 micropage went live on Amazon, its website, and other platforms. Here’s what leaks suggest about the OnePlus 13 launch date, price, and specifications.

OnePlus 13 launch date: (Expected)

The company has confirmed that the OnePlus 13 will be launching in India next month but has not specified the exact date. Looking at the macrophages, we expect that both OnePlus 13 and OnePlus 13R will launch in the first half of January.

OnePlus 13 confirmed features:

As per the microsite, the OnePlus 13 is confirmed to launch with the Android 15-based OxygenSO 15. Along with that, the smartphone will come with AI features including imaging and writing tools.

READ: OnePlus 13 vs OnePlus 13R: Here are 10 differences you can expect

OnePlus 13 specifications: (Expected)

If the reports are believed to be true, the smartphone will come with a 6.82-inch Quad-HD+ 120Hz LTPO AMOLED screen and Dolby Vision support. Under the hood, it will debut with the Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset with up to 24GB LPPD5x RAM and up to 1TB UFS 4.0 onboard storage. The smartphone may come backed by a 6,000mAh battery with support for 100W wired, and 50W wireless charging. It will also get 5W reverse wired charging and 10W reverse wireless charging. The smartphone will come with an IP68+69-rated build for dust and water resistance.

Speaking of the camera, the smartphone may come with a 50 MP primary sensor with OIS support and a 50 MP ultra-wide and 50 MP telephoto shooter with 3x optical zoom. For selfies, the 32 MP front camera could make its way with the phone.

OnePlus 13 price range:

OnePlus 13 price in India is likely to start at Rs 59,999, claimed by the reports. The top variant with 24GB RAM could be priced at Rs 69,999, the report added. It may debut with Arctic Dawn, Black Eclipse, and Midnight Ocean colour shades.

Do note that these prices are not official and are completely based on leaks.

Tecno has launched the Phantom V2 series in India. This series includes two smartphone models: Phantom V Fold 2 and Phantom V Flip 2. According to the company, this lineup is designed to partner with users driven by ambition, delivering cutting-edge technology, exceptional durability and sleek design. "The Phantom V2 series stands as an improved-to-perfection experience to end all users’ concerns," Tecno said.

Keep reading to know details of the Tecno Phantom V2 series including its price and specifications.

Tecno Phantom V Fold 2 specifications

The Tecno Phantom V Fold 2 is protected with Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 and aerospace-grade hinges that’ve been tested over 400,000 times. 

The Phantom V Fold 2 sports a 7.85-inch main screen and a 6.42-inch cover display. According to the company, this is the “Largest Display in Foldable Phones Under Rs 100K." 

The Phantom V Fold 2’s impressive 5750mAh battery is the “Largest Battery in Foldable Phones”. Enjoy uninterrupted power throughout the day, ensuring productivity through all the meetings without worrying about recharging.

This foldable phone packs a 5750mAh battery which, according to Tecno, is the “Largest Battery in Foldable Phones”. Furthermore, it comes with AI-powered tools like Image Cutout and Circle-to-Search.

Also read: Tecno Phantom V Fold Review : The cheapest foldable, but is it worth the price?

Tecno Phantom V Flip 2 specifications

The Phantom V Flip 2 features an aerospace-grade hinge and Corning Gorilla Glass 8. This phone sports a 6.9-inch main display and 3.64-inch cover screen. Furthermore, it packs a 4720mAh battery with 70W charging support.

Tecno Phantom V Flip Vs. Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5: A budget flip takes on the best flip in the world

Tecno Phantom V2 series pricing and availability

The Phantom V2 Fold is priced at Rs 79,999, while the Phantom V2 Flip is available at Rs 34,999 for a limited period. Both devices will be available starting December 13, 2024 on Amazon.

Google has officially announced many new updates for Android and Pixel smartphone users. The new features include a Gemini update, a new extension, and more detailed video captioning. Pixel users will also benefit from additional capabilities, like a tighter integration of the Pixel Screenshots app for Pixel 9 phones. Here is everything you should know.

Expressive Captions:

Google has introduced Expressive Captions, which may automatically capture the intensity and emotions of speech, providing more context to interactions. The new function will assist users in understanding the emotional tone of the message, making it a more authentic experience for them.

READ: Android 15 finally lands with fun features but there’s a bummer for Google Pixel users

Gemini-Enhanced Image Descriptions:

Visually challenged users can hear better and more extensive descriptions of images thanks to the Gemini 1.5 Pro, which is integrated into the Lookout's Image Q&A feature. These descriptions are read aloud in a natural-sounding voice, which helps visitors grasp the content. Additionally, viewers can ask follow-up questions on the image.

New Sticker Combos and Emoji Kitchen in Gboard

Google has added new sticker combos and emoji options. Users can now remix their favorite emojis into unique combinations like pizza-themed stickers to share with friends.

QR Code Sharing

Google has also introduced QR codes in Quick Share to help users share photos, videos, and documents. The receiver can scan the code to securely receive the media without the need to verify devices or change sharing settings.

High-Quality Document Scanning in Google Drive

Google has also upgraded the Drive's document scanning capabilities, including automatic upgrades that optimize photos for clarity and quality.

Gemini Extensions for App Integration

Google has introduced new Extensions that improve AI capabilities across a variety of applications and services. For example, the new Spotify plugin lets users play music, discover playlists, and enjoy music according to their mood. Gemini now allows you to send messages, call contacts, set alarms, and even control device settings including the camera.

The wave of flagship smartphone launches has started with the launch of iQOO 13 and Realme GT 7 Pro in India. Up next, we have the OnePlus 13 and the Vivo X200 Pro, and after that comes the most-awaited Samsung Galaxy S25 series. Samsung's new Galaxy S lineup is expected to feature three models this time as well - Galaxy S25, Galaxy S25 Plus, and Galaxy S25 Ultra.

In this article, I am going to talk about the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra leaks that have been surfacing all over the internet for a while now. I'll talk about its pricing, launch date, and key specifications as well. So, let's begin!

Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra launch date and price

Samsung hasn't officially announced anything on the Galaxy S25 series, but if rumours are to be believed, we can expect it to launch in India on January 22. As far as Galaxy S25 Ultra's pricing is concerned, it is expected to carry the same pricing as the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra. It was launched in India at a price of Rs 1,29,999.

Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra specifications

The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra is expected to feature a flat frame this time. It can have a 6.9-inch AMOLED display with 1440 x 3120 pixels resolution and 120Hz refresh rate support. Moreover, it will most likely be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, which can be paired with up to 12GB RAM and 1TB storage.

Samsung has already started rolling out OneUI 7 Beta versions, so we can expect Android 15-based OneUI 7 skin on the Galaxy S25 Ultra.

For photography, we might get a 200-megapixel main camera, a 50-megapixel periscope telephoto lens with 5x optical zoom, a 10-megapixel telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom, and a 50-megapixel ultrawide lens.

Lastly, the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra is rumoured to be packed with a 5000mAh battery with 45-watt fast charging support.

Instagram Down: Thousands of users are not able to use the Meta’s photo sharing application Instagram. Instagram users across the world are complaining about the disruptions they are facing in refreshing their feeds or sending messages.

According to the real-time outage-detecting platform Downdetector, the problems started early Friday at around 7 AM IST. The graph has been red for almost four hours with over 150 consistent reports every 30 minutes. Not only that, Instagram users in the US and other countries are also facing similar problems, as shown the Downdetector graph.

As per the platform, over 77 percent of the users are facing problems with the application, 22 percent with login, and 11 percent with uploading their content. The users in India, the US and some other countries are facing problems using Instagram.

READ: Samsung confirms OneUI 7 features: Focus on AI enhancements, new design elements, but no release date yet

Just like every time, X has become a party place with people finding humour in the situation. The users have moved to X and started trolling Facebook, Meta, Instagram, and CEO Mark Zuckerberg for the outage. However, Meta has not responded to the situation at the moment.

It seems that there’s a possible technical glitch or a bug which is causing disruptions to the users while refreshing their feeds or sending the messages. Some users on X have also stated that they have uninstalled and reinstalled the application to fix the problem and it worked.

Here are few memes and posts shared by users complaining about Instagram down.

WHY IS @instagram DOWN FOR SO LONG HELLO???

— ⠁⠗⠊⠑ (@Ar_ie_) December 6, 2024

OpenAI has introduced a new subscription plan called ChatGPT Pro. Priced at $200 per month, ChatGPT Pro gives users access to the smartest version of OpenAI's models and tools, designed to solve some of the most complex problems in fields like data science, programming, and law.

With ChatGPT Pro, subscribers can use OpenAI's most advanced model, called o1, along with additional models like o1-mini, GPT-4o, and Advanced Voice. One of the standout features is o1 Pro Mode, which takes advantage of more computing power to provide deeper and more accurate responses. This upgraded mode is specifically designed for tackling the hardest challenges, ensuring that users receive the most reliable answers even in areas like mathematics, science, and coding.

"Compared to both o1 and o1-preview, o1 pro mode performs better on challenging ML benchmarks across math, science, and coding," OpenAI said.

Also read: OpenAI launches GPT-4o AI model that's free for all ChatGPT users: What’s new

OpenAI uses a stricter evaluation method to ensure the answers are accurate—meaning the model must provide the correct answer in four out of four attempts to be considered reliable. This makes the o1 pro mode ideal for those who need precision and dependability in their work.

Also read: OpenAI faces legal action from Canadian news companies, here's why

ChatGPT Pro users can easily switch to o1 pro mode through the model picker, but keep in mind that answers may take a bit longer to generate. A progress bar will show the wait time, and you'll receive a notification if you switch to another conversation while waiting.

OpenAI plans to continuously improve ChatGPT Pro by adding even more powerful features and compute-intensive tasks. Though these features will initially be exclusive to Pro users, OpenAI aims to eventually offer many of them to all subscribers.

"To help drive meaningful progress in fields that benefit humanity, we are awarding 10 grants of ChatGPT Pro to medical researchers at leading institutions in the U.S., with plans to expand Pro grants to other regions and areas of research in the future," the company said.

Digital scams are getting way too common and platforms such as WhatsApp and Telegram are being used a lot to con people. Taking that into consideration the Ministry of Electronics and IT (MeitY) has intensified efforts to combat scams originating on WhatsApp. A recommendation in the same regard was sent by the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI). After that, the government sent a notice to WhatsApp, and MeitY Secretary S. Krishnan confirmed that discussions with Meta, WhatsApp's parent company, are ongoing to tackle this persistent issue.

Speaking to the Economic Times, Krishnan said, “This is a continuous process. Scamsters will keep finding newer ways, causing concern.” He further spoke about how there is a need for users to also remain vigilant and report issues through established grievance redressal mechanisms. They can do this either within the app or through external channels such as government portals.

Under India’s IT rules, platforms such as WhatsApp are required to appoint grievance officers to address complaints. The cases which remain unresolved escalate to a grievance appellate committee.

Further, Trai recently asked MeitY to investigate and curb phishing calls and messages delivered through WhatsApp. Chairman Anil Kumar Lahoti said that while Trai handles traditional voice and SMS-related scams, action on OTT platforms like WhatsApp falls under MeitY’s jurisdiction.

Messaging apps such as WhatsApp, Signal, and Telegram operate outside Trai’s domain, hence the concerns about the lack of oversight. WhatsApp, with its massive Indian user base, has cooperated with the Department of Telecom (DoT) by blocking flagged numbers. However, officials note that platforms like Telegram and Signal have yet to demonstrate similar commitment.

Let’s see if the government asks apps like WhatsApp to take stricter measures and how eventually both parties can limit scams as they are a growing concern.

Good news for Pixel users. Google has released this month's Pixel update. The latest December Pixel Drop brings a host of exciting new features to your Pixel devices, including new ways to use Gemini, camera upgrades, and security updates. Keep reading to know what's new.

Smarter Gemini features

Gemini, Google’s AI assistant, has received some significant updates to make it even more helpful. A new "saved info" feature in Gemini Advanced allows you to customise your interactions. Now, you can ask Gemini to remember things like your dietary preferences or favourite activities. For instance, if you tell Gemini you're vegetarian, it will suggest vegetarian-friendly recipes in the future without needing reminders. You can also manage this saved info, viewing, editing, or deleting it at any time.

Also read: Pixel 9 Pro takes Google approx Rs 34,000 to make, sells in India for Rs 1,09,999

More app integrations

Gemini is now integrated with more apps and services, making it easier to use on your Pixel phone. You can ask Gemini to call contacts, send messages, set alarms, and control your device settings. There's also a new Spotify extension, allowing you to play music and discover playlists. Gemini can even control your smart home devices like lights, TVs, and ACs, as well as help you explore places on Google Maps by reading reviews or scanning websites.

Enhanced call features

Pixel users will enjoy smarter Call Screen options with Gemini Nano. It now suggests context-based, easy-to-tap responses to unknown callers. For example, if a delivery person calls, you can quickly answer with a simple "Yes" or "No" or ask follow-up questions using pre-set prompts. You can also see live transcripts during the call screening process, so you can decide whether to pick up the call or not.

New camera and photo features

There are also camera improvements in this Pixel Drop. The new Dual Screen Portrait Mode on the Pixel Fold and Pixel 9 Pro Fold makes it easier to take the perfect photo, letting both you and your subject preview the shot before capturing it. Plus, Pixel users can now share Ultra HDR photos directly to Instagram, bringing higher contrast and more detail to your posts.

Smarter organisation and security

The update also improves the way you organise your screenshots, automatically categorizing them and suggesting actions like adding calendar events or directions. Additionally, a new Identity Check feature helps keep your data secure while travelling, requiring face or fingerprint authentication for sensitive changes.

To know about other features, head to this blogpost.

Fans have been eagerly waiting for the sequel to Pushpa: The Rise and now it is finally here. Pushpa 2: The Rule was released on December 5, 2024, and features Allu Arjun and Rashmika Mandanna in the lead. The first day itself saw massive crowds and cinemas maxing out to capacity and the movie is expected to break some box office records. Are you curious about when the movie will be released on OTT? Here’s what we know.

Pushpa 2: The Rule OTT release date

The movie has just been released in theatres and it can take some time to make it to OTT. Although the people associated with the film are yet to announce the OTT release date, media reports suggest that Netflix has acquired the streaming rights for Pushpa 2. Fans can expect an official announcement soon after the film's theatrical run concludes.

Pushpa 2 storyline

From the trailer of Pushpa 2: The Rule, we can see Pushpa Raj's (Allu Arjun) fierce battle for dominance amid the growing challenges. Rashmika Mandanna takes back her role as Srivalli, while Fahadh Faasil returns as Bhanwar Singh Shekhawat. The sequel delves deeper into Pushpa's journey, and obviously, there are a lot of action-packed sequences with personal and professional trials.

Pushpa 2 cast and crew

The star-studded cast includes Allu Arjun, Rashmika Mandanna, Fahadh Faasil, Jagapathi Babu, Dhananjaya, Rao Ramesh, Sunil, and Anasuya Bharadwaj. The movie has been produced by Naveen Yerneni and Y. Ravi Shankar, the film features high-stakes drama, compelling performances, and stunning cinematography.

The movie is just a day old and like I mentioned earlier, the reception is just crazy. Fans are lining up for tickets, the feedback is also great. We will have to give some time to get the box office numbers, but early trends suggest that they will be record-breaking.

Six former Apple employees have been charged with a shocking scheme to steal over $150,000 by misusing the company’s charity donation matching program. Over three years, the group defrauded Apple and the State of California, pretending to donate to children’s charities while pocketing the funds.  

The alleged mastermind behind the operation, Siu Kei (Alex) Kwan, used his roles as the CEO of Hop4Kids and accountant for the American Chinese International Cultural Exchange (ACICE) to orchestrate the fraud. He encouraged five colleagues to make fake donations to these organisations through Apple’s Matching Gifts Program. Instead of actually donating, the employees were reimbursed by Kwan, who then kept the matching funds provided by Apple. The employees also falsely claimed these fake donations on their tax returns to reduce their tax bills.  

Also read: Two men defrauded Apple of over Rs 20cr in fake iPhone scam: Here’s how they did it

The defendants — Siu Kei (Alex) Kwan, 37, of Castro Valley; Yathei (Hayson) Yuen, 34, of San Jose; Yat C (Sunny) Ng, 35, of Milpitas; Wentao (Victor) Li, 38, of Hayward; Lichao Ni, 39, of Sunnyvale; and Zheng Chang, 31, of Union City — face multiple felony charges. These include grand theft, conspiracy, perjury, and tax fraud. Because of the large sums involved, the charges carry aggravated white-collar crime enhancements, which could lead to jail time, restitution payments, and hefty fines.  

Also read: Apple accused of monitoring employees’ devices and stifling free speech

The fraud took place between July 2018 and April 2021. Apple’s donation program, facilitated by the third-party platform Benevity, matched employee contributions to eligible charities by 100 percent or 200 percent. After the funds were matched, Benevity transferred the money to the charities. However, Kwan manipulated the system by reimbursing employees for their “donations” and keeping the matched funds for himself.  

District Attorney Jeff Rosen praised Apple for bringing the fraud to light and cooperating with the investigation. He urged others in the tech community to report similar schemes.

The Santa Clara County District Attorney’s Office is continuing its investigation and has issued arrest warrants for all six defendants. 

Have you ever wondered who’s typing in a busy group chat or during a one-on-one conversation? WhatsApp has introduced a new feature, Typing Indicators, to make these moments more seamless. This small but significant update adds a touch of clarity and keeps you better connected with your friends, family, or colleagues in real time.  

With the Typing Indicators feature, you’ll now see a visual “...” cue at the bottom of your chat screen whenever someone starts typing. Alongside this indicator, the profile picture of the person typing will also appear, giving a clear and instant signal of who’s actively engaged.

Also read: WhatsApp introduces voice message transcriptions: Here’s how this feature works

This update works across both individual chats and group conversations, making it easier to stay in sync during ongoing discussions.  

In group chats, where messages often overlap and it's easy to lose track of who is responding, this feature is a game-changer. It allows you to quickly identify which participant is typing, making conversations feel more organised and interactive.

Whether you’re planning an event or sharing a laugh, knowing who’s typing can help you better time your responses and keep the chat flow uninterrupted.  

WhatsApp has rolled out this feature for both iOS and Android users, ensuring that everyone, regardless of their device, can enjoy this real-time enhancement.

Also read: WhatsApp introduces in-app contact saving feature: Here’s how it will help

My opinion

Typing Indicators may seem like a small addition, but it’s the kind of thoughtful detail that makes a big difference in everyday conversations. It adds a layer of real-time interaction that feels personal, especially in group settings. For me, it’s a welcome update that bridges the gap between texting and face-to-face conversations.  

This feature reflects WhatsApp’s continuous efforts to make chats more interactive and user-friendly. Updates like this show how even minor changes can elevate the messaging experience.

Samsung has officially introduced the OneUI 7 beta program along with a host of new features. The tech giant has announced upgrades to the Galaxy AI features with new design and more organized controls. The new update will be available for Galaxy S24 series users in select regions starting December 5. Here’s everything you need to know about OneUI 7 features, rollout timeline and more. 

Galaxy AI features

The OneUI 7 brings some key updates to the Galaxy AI features including the writing assist tools. The new updates bring the ability to allow users to seamlessly select and interact with text across multiple apps. With this, the users will get AI-powered options like summarizing content, checking spelling and grammar, and auto-formatting notes into bullet points without any need to switch between the apps. 

The company has expanded the call transcript feature support in over 20 languages. The users will be able to  access automatic transcriptions of recorded calls, eliminating the need to take notes manually. 

New design

Along with AI upgrades, OneUI 7 comes with a few design changes. The company has added a Now Bar which can be directly accessed from the lock screen, summarising key activities such as Music, Recording, Stopwatch, and Interpreter. 

READ: Samsung confirms OneUI 7 features: Focus on AI enhancements, new design elements, but no release date yet

The home screen along with the widgets are also redesigned with an aim to offer users more control over their device. 

Along with these, Samsung has also made some tweaks to the camera interface. It is now easier to navigate through settings with a simplified camera UX. Controls like zoom adjustments in Pro video mode, have been reorganized to allow users greater flexibility.

OneUI 7 rollout timeline

The public release of OneUI 7 will start with the upcoming Galaxy S25 series devices with additional AI capabilities, starting from the first quarter of 2025. It will gradually rollout to other devices.

Speaking of the OneUI 7 beta version, it will be available for Galaxy S24 series in Germany, India, Korea, Poland, the UK, and the US, from December 5. If you want to test the new OneUI 7 beta, you can join via Samsung Members. 

Xiaomi is all set to introduce a variety of new devices including the much-awaited Redmi Note 14 series on the December 9 event. Xiaomi's sub-brand will be completing a decade in the Indian market and will be launching the Redmi Buds 6 and Xiaomi Sound Outdoor speakers for tech lovers. Here’s what we know about the upcoming launches by Xiaomi. 

1. Redmi Note 14 series

The Redmi Note 14 series will be making its India debut with three variants including the vanilla trim, the Redmi Note 14 Pro, and the Redmi Note 14 Pro Plus. The teasers suggest that this year, Redmi will be announcing a series of AI features. 

READ: Redmi Note 14 series India launch soon: Expected price, features, and everything else we know

Speaking of the top-end Redmi Note 14 Pro Plus, the device may get over 20 AI features including AI photo expansion, Eraser, and more. The device will retain the curved AMOLED display and will get Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 along with IP68 certification. The Redmi Note 14 Pro Plus is also expected to get a 50 MP telephoto lens. 

The Redmi Note 14 Pro is expected to get the same 6.67-inch OLED 120 Hz display and may come powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7300 Ultra chipset. The device may come with a 50 MP primary camera, 8 MP ultra-wide camera, and 2 MP macro lens. It may come backed by a 5,500 mAh battery with 45W fast charging. 

Lastly, the Redmi Note 14 could launch with a 6.67-inch FHD+ OLED display along with MediaTek Dimensity 7025 Ultra chipset. It will get a 50 MP primary shooter and a 2MP macro lens. The device may come backed by a 5,110 mAh battery and 45W fast charging. 

2. Redmi Buds 6:

The new Redmi Buds 6 may come with 49dB Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) along with an LED flow display and an IP54 rating. The new buds will offer AI ENC along with dual-device connectivity, Bluetooth 5.4, and fast charging.  It may offer 42 hours of playback with the case and could be priced under Rs 3,000. 

3. Xioami Sound Outdoor speakers

The Xiaomi Sound Outdoor speakers are also set to make their India debut with a versatile design. It is expected to offer Bluetooth V5.4 for fast and stable pairing along with an integrated mic. The speaker may get the IP67 certification. In terms of battery, the device may offer up to 12 hours of battery life if used at 50% volume.  

DeepMind, which is Google’s AI research arm, has launched Genie 2. It is an advanced AI model and is capable of generating infinite and interactive 3D worlds. This succeeds Genie, which transforms single images into playable environments. Now Genie 2 works on this itself and offers the creation of dynamic 3D virtual spaces from text or image prompts.

DeepMind explained how users can easily generate detailed environments with simple prompts, in a blog post. For example, typing "a warrior in snow" can produce a snowy battlefield where players can interact with objects and perform actions like jumping or swimming. All of this is governed by real-world physics and lighting effects. Further, it supports diverse perspectives, including first-person, isometric, and third-person views. With this, the virtual worlds are adaptable for various experiences.

Let’s take a look at how Genie 2 works.

How Genie 2 works

Genie 2 operates by processing user inputs through Imagen3, which is another generative model. It uses auto-regressive techniques to simulate environments frame by frame. Like if you press directional keys, it moves a robot character instead of unrelated objects like trees or clouds.

Genie 2 even has long-term memory which allows it to recall unseen parts of environments when you ask it for. This feature ensures that the generated worlds remain coherent and realistic over time.

It is not really a gaming platform and has been created as a creative and research tool. It can be used in video game design, virtual training simulations, and beyond. It can even transform concept art into interactive spaces as it has out-of-distribution generalisation capabilities.3D content creation will become a lot more seamless with this, whenever it is rolled out fully.

Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, a popular first-person shooter, will be available for a week's free trial. All the PC, Xbox, and PlayStation gamers can experience the game during the time between December 13 to December 20, stated Activiison in a post. The gamers will be able to play multiplayer and zombie modes. However, the players will not get the campaign during this free trial period. 

What will be on offer?

The Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 free trial will offer free multiplayer maps including Racket, Hacienda, Hideout, and the holiday-themed NukeTown Holiday. The players can choose from Team Deathmatch, Domination, Hardpoint, Kill Confirmed, and Prop Hunt mode.

The player can also opt for the Zombies mode and choose from the Liberty Falls and Terminus maps. The new mode also offers intense fights and unique challenges to keep the gameplay fresh. 

Black Ops 6 new update

Not only that, the Black Ops 6 will also get the Season 1 Reloaded update today. The new update will also bring new maps including Hacienda, Racket, and Nuketown Holiday along with a new Zombie map called Citadelle des Morts. Not only that, but the new update will also bring in weapons, modes, new enemies, and much more for the players.  

The free trial can be a golden opportunity for gamers who want to experience the game before paying Rs 5,599 for the basic edition or Rs 7,999 for the Vault edition. 

Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 launch date:

The Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 is relatively a new title making its debut on October 25 for various consoles including PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series S/X. If you hold a Game Pass Ultimate subscription, you are not required to pay any extra amount to play Call of Duty: Black Ops 6.

Samsung’s Galaxy tri-fold phone is in the headlines yet again but this time with its possible launch timeline. The device came into the limelight when the news came out that Samsung had won a patent from the US Patent and Trademark Office. The documents included a flexible triple display. 

For the unversed, the Galaxy tri-fold is expected to come with three screens and two hinges, much like the Huawei Mate XT Ultimate, which got a lot of attention. However, there is not much information available about the Galaxy tri-fold.

However, according to DSCC analyst Ross Young, the triple-folding smartphone from Samsung (also Galaxy tri-fold) will make its debut in early 2026. If reports are believed to be true, the Samsung Galaxy tri-fold could have a similar design to the Huawei Mate XT Ultimate.

Ross Young asserted on X that the Galaxy tri-fold smartphone from Samsung might debut in early 2026. When the user asked if he would be moving to the Fold 7 if Samsung did not release the tri-fold device next year, he said, "More like early 2026."

Samsung may release the triple-folding device a few months after launching the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Galaxy Z Flip 7, according to a recent rumor. Next-generation foldable phones from Samsung are often announced in the middle of the year, most likely around July. 

Speaking of the specifications, the Samsung triple folding smartphone can debut with a 10-inch screen when unfolded. When folded, it may get a rectangular shape. It is worth noting that Samsung has not officially confirmed the launch of the device at the time of writing this article.

However, if Samsung introduces the Galaxy tri-fold device, it could be costly. For example, Huawei's Mate XT Ultimate Design debuted in China priced at CNY 19,999 (about Rs. 2,35,900), which is likewise on the high end. However, it makes sense because the investment in hardware and research would increase.

Motorola is gearing up to launch a new Moto G-series smartphone in India. The company has been teasing the Moto G35 5G handset on X (formerly Twitter) and also put up a microsite on Flipkart. Keep reading to know what to expect from this upcoming Moto G-series phone including its specifications and price.

Moto G35 5G India launch

The Moto G35 5G is scheduled to launch in India on December 10, 2024 at 12 PM. The phone will be available on sale on Flipkart, Motorola e-store and leading retail stores.

Moto G35 5G specifications and features

The Moto G35 5G is confirmed to sport a 6.7-inch FHD+ display with 120Hz refresh rate and 1000nits of brightness. This display will be protected by the Gorilla Glass 3, and come with Vision Booster and Night Vision mode.

Also read: Moto Edge 50 Pro lands in India! How will it compete with Nothing Phone (2a)?

The upcoming Moto G-series phone will be powered by the UNISOC T760 processor which, according to Motorola, is the segment's most powerful processor.

The Moto G35 5G houses a 50MP primary camera. This camera incorporates Quad Pixel technology. Additionally, the phone has an 8MP ultra-wide lens. On the front, you will get a 16MP selfie shooter. The phone supports 4K video recording. Furthermore, the Moto G35 5G packs a 5000mAh battery with 20W charging support.

Also read: Motorola Moto G64 5G Review: A minor upgrade, but a polished one

This handset is confirmed to come in three colour options: Midnight Black, Leaf Green and Guava Red. While the Midnight Black will feature a matte finish, the Leaf Green and Guava Red will have a soft vegan leather design. According to the company, the Moto G35 5G weighs 185 grams and is 7.79mm thick.

Moto G35 5G expected price

The Moto G35 5G is expected to be priced between Rs 10,000 to Rs 15,000.

Smartphone addiction is a serious problem and a lot of people are dealing with it. Governments across the globe are trying to figure out a way to deal with this widespread issue. The government of Spain has come up with a different approach to tackle smartphone addiction. Spain has proposed that just like cigarette boxes come with a mandatory health warning, smartphones should come with it too.

After a 250-page report was shared by the government-appointed expert panel, a suggestion was given that smartphones should also come with such warnings to raise awareness about the risks of excessive screen time and encourage healthier usage habits.

It suggests that smartphone makers should add warnings for digital services, alerting users to dangers like overuse and exposure to harmful content.

These warnings could also appear when accessing certain apps or platforms, promoting mindful consumption. When it comes to children, the panel had more strict recommendations. It advocates banning digital devices for those under three and significantly restricting use for ages three to six, allowing exceptions only in specific cases.

The government in Spain wants teenagers under 16 to use “dumbphones” with limited features, while social media use is discouraged for children under 12. Further, the panel asked schools to prioritise traditional teaching methods for younger students and limit digital tools to strike a better balance between technology and traditional education.

The report even asked to address technology-related mental health issues such as addiction and anxiety. It recommends integrating digital addiction screenings into routine medical checkups to ensure early intervention.

Spain is not the first country to advocate such measures. Recently Australia also banned social media for children under 16 years of age. Do you think such measures are necessary? Should India implement them too?

OpenAI, the company behind ChatGPT, will make a dozen new announcements over the next 12 working days, beginning on December 5. Taking to X, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman announced that there will be 12 days of new announcements, starting at 10 AM PT (11:30 IST). 

“Starting tomorrow at 10 am Pacific, we are doing 12 days of OpenAI. Each weekday, we will have a livestream with a launch or demo, some big ones and some stocking stuffers. We’ve got some great stuff to share, hope you enjoy! Merry Christmas,” Sam Altman wrote on X. 

“12 days. 12 livestreams. A bunch of new things, big and small. 12 Days of OpenAI starts tomorrow,” OpenAI wrote in its X post. 

OpenAI Christmas announcements: 

The Verge reports that OpenAI intends to introduce a new reasoning model, a Christmas-themed ChatGPT interface, and a text-to-video tool called Sora AI.  The report claims that the interface may have a voice mode, a snowflake-like design, or a voice that is reminiscent of Santa. 

Furthermore, the company may introduce a new reasoning model that will succeed the GPT-4 model. The company has reportedly been working on the new model, codenamed Orion, for months and is expected to launch by the end of the year. 

Additionally, according to the report, Orion is trained on synthetic data from OpenAI's recently released o1 series reasoning models. OpenAI is also reportedly developing an AI agent capable of performing computer-based tasks on behalf of users, which will be demonstrated during the live stream. However, it may be released next year.

In addition to these, OpenAI may introduce new features such as the ChatGPT Search feature, which integrates web search functionality into the ChatGPT AI chatbot, among others. 

In today’s world, we all rely on online services to track deliveries and resolve issues. But sometimes, these platforms can be manipulated by scammers looking to exploit our trust. Deepanjal Srivastava, a resident of Jamshedpur, recently found out the hard way when he became a victim of a postal tracking scam that led to a loss of Rs 62,000 from his bank accounts.

The incident occurred on November 16, when Deepanjal was expecting a book from Varanasi through speed post. After waiting for some time, he decided to track the package online but received no response. Frustrated, he called a customer care number listed alongside the postal tracking page, hoping to get some answers. A person who claimed to be from the Bistupur Post Office answered the call.

Also read: Online hotel review scam costs man over Rs 7 lakh: How to avoid such scams

The scammer informed Deepanjal that the book had been held at the post office for three days due to a missing pin code. To resolve the issue, he was asked to send his pin code via WhatsApp. Shortly after, the fraudster requested an online payment of Rs 2 for verification, stating it could not be paid in cash.

Feeling reassured, Deepanjal made the payment through mobile banking. However, he was shocked to discover that a total of Rs 62,000 had been debited from two of his bank accounts—Rs 40,000 from Canara Bank (Khasmahal Karandih branch) and Rs 22,000 from Bank of Baroda (Mango branch).

Also read: Kanpur man loses over Rs 7 lakh in online PAN card scam: How to avoid such scams

Panicked and in disbelief, Deepanjal immediately blocked his accounts and filed a complaint at the Cyber Police Station. “When I made the payment through mobile banking, a total of Rs 62,000 was debited from my accounts in one go,” he said in his complaint.

This incident serves as a stark reminder to always verify information before acting online. Scammers often use convincing tactics, but a little caution can go a long way in protecting your money.

Pushpa 2 full movie, which debuted on the big screen today, delighting fans with action and a compelling storyline, has reportedly leaked on platforms such as Telegram and torrent. According to reports, the film starring Allu Arjun has fallen victim to piracy, with HD copies appearing on various websites, prompting people to search for Pushpa 2 movie download on Google. 

Further the reports mentioned that the Allu Arjun’s movie was leaked onm torrent platforms including Ibomma, Movierulz, Tamilrockers, Filmyzilla, TamilYogi, Tamilblasters, Bolly4u, Jaisha Moviez, 9xmovies, and Moviesda.

However, the Pushpa 2, despite being leaked online, is expected to break box-office records following the massive success of its first part. Not only Allu Arjun’s performance as Pushpa Raj but Rashmika Mandanna as Srivalli, and Fahadh Faasil as Bhanwar Singh Shekhawa have also created a lot of buzz in the cinema industry. 

Pushpa 2 advance booking has already crossed the Rs 100 crore mark from all over the country in different languages. According to Sacnilk, the movie was released with over 40,000 shows in India, making it among the widest releases in history. The Hindi version is also expected to break the advance day booking records of Jawan which was about Rs 28 crore. Speaking of the numbers, the Pushpa 2: The Rule has sold over 31,76,479 tickets in India for its first-day shows. 

Piracy has been a major problem for the film industry and Pushpa 2 is not the only film that has fallen victim to such malpractice. Movies like The Beginning, Kalki 2898 AD, GOAT, and Adipurush were also leaked online. This raises concerns about the challenges faced by the film industry. 

Meanwhile, social media users have started sharing their reviews and opinions on Pushpa 2 with many of them praising Allu Arjun’s and Rashmika Mandanna’s  performance. 

To convey the importance of its market in India, OnePlus has announced a new Project Starlight. The project has been set up to address concerns specifically raised by its Indian user base. For the same, OnePlus has decided to invest Rs 2000 crore annually over three years. The company aims to enhance its devices and services specifically for India.

Sharing the same, Robin Liu, CEO of OnePlus India, emphasised the importance of India during the announcement in Shenzhen, China. “India is one of our largest strategic priorities. Through Project Starlight, we’re committed to solving challenges unique to this market and offering tailored solutions,” said Liu.

The initiative mainly focuses on durability, after-sales service, and innovation. One major highlight of Project Starlight is the Double 85 Torture Test. This test will subject OnePlus phones to 85°C temperature and 85% humidity for extended durations, ensuring reliability in India’s harsh conditions. The upcoming OnePlus 13 has already passed this rigorous test and features a new display bonding technology to deal with the OLED aging and the green-line issue prevalent in humid climates such as that of India.

Further, OnePlus is now offering a lifetime display warranty on its devices, including the OnePlus 13. It guarantees free replacements in case customers face display issues. The green line issue on OnePlus smartphones has been a big concern that Indian users have been dealing with and even loyal customers are switching to other brands because of this.

Further, Project Starlight will also improve connectivity and performance for Indian users. The OnePlus 13 will support 5.5G networks, tested with Jio to achieve speeds of up to 1Gbps. Additionally, a new networking algorithm is being put in place to enhance signal performance in underground metro networks like the Delhi Metro.

Another India-focused feature is Steady Connect, which ensures uninterrupted Bluetooth connectivity between the OnePlus 13 and OnePlus Buds over distances of up to 300 meters. OnePlus is also expanding its service network. The company plans to increase service centers by 50% by 2026, focusing on Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities.

WhatsApp is reportedly rolling out new features for group members who prefer voice messages. The new beta version introduces more exciting features for voice group chats, making them easier and more interactive to use.

According to Wabetainfo, the recent WhatsApp Beta for Android 2.24.25.22 update adds more enhancements to features introduced with Android beta version 2.23.24.20, improving accessibility and user interface. 

What new features are added?

A floating action button, situated directly above the message send button, is one of the new features included in the latest beta update. It provides a simple and obvious method of initiating a voice chat within a group. To start a voice call, users must currently use the app's top action bar or navigate to the group chat information screen. All group members will be able to see this more clearly thanks to the new modification.

Read: WhatsApp may soon allow users to share media files directly to other apps: What we know

A gesture-based way to initiate voice chats is also included in the latest beta update. In a group conversation, when a user scrolls up, the voice chat will start automatically after the gesture is finished. It will assist in maintaining user engagement.  

According to the report, voice chat will no longer be restricted to larger groups; even two people can use the feature in a smaller group. To maintain a tidy group interface, WhatsApp will automatically terminate a group if it is not used or joined within 60 minutes. Nevertheless, once a voice chat is started, users can still alert all participants, enabling anyone to join the conversation.

Some beta testers can now access the new voice group chat actions, and in the days ahead, more users will be able to use them. Please be aware that these features are not yet officially available for public use, and it may take several weeks. 

Among all the smartphone makers that have already or will soon launch their flagship smartphones, Xiaomi is also gearing up to launch the Xiaomi 15 Ultra. This smartphone will be the third edition of the Xiaomi 15 series and promises high-end specifications. Recent leaks by tipster Digital Chat Station have revealed what we can expect from the smartphone. Let’s quickly take a look.

Xiaomi 15 Ultra expected specs

Design and display

On the design front, we might get to see a similar design language as before. It can get an IP69 rating. The Xiaomi 15 Ultra is expected to feature a 2K quad-curved AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, similar to its predecessor, the Xiaomi 14 Ultra.

Camera

As per leaks, the Xiaomi 15 Ultra is tipped to include a 1-inch type main camera with an f/1.63 aperture for enhanced low-light performance, along with a 200-megapixel periscope telephoto sensor.

Performance

Coming to performance now, Xiaomi 15 Ultra will most likely join the list of flagship smartphones to run on the latest Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset. We can expect powerful performance for gaming and multitasking, along with some AI features.

Battery

Contrary to the trend, the Xiaomi 15 Ultra will ship with a similar 5000mAh battery as last year and will not upgrade to a bigger battery. However, this time it can come with wireless charging support too.

Price

Coming to the prices now, the Xiaomi 15 Ultra can be priced similarly to the Xiaomi 14 Ultra. The latter was priced at Rs 99,999 in India so it can come close to that. It will compete with upcoming devices like the OnePlus 13.

We will update you as and when Xiaomi announces a new update and launch date regarding the same.

There’s nothing like the joy of revisiting the songs, artists, and podcasts that shaped your year. That’s exactly what Spotify Wrapped 2024 delivers—a personal recap of your listening journey, packed with fresh features, insights, and even a touch of AI magic.

What’s new in Spotify Wrapped 2024?

Spotify has gone all out this year with exciting updates. From highlighting how your music taste evolved to introducing AI-powered experiences, Wrapped has something for everyone. Here’s what you can look forward to:

• Your Music Evolution: See how your taste changed throughout the year with up to three “musical phases” featuring descriptors, genres, and artists.
• Personalised Playlists: Explore a special Music Evolution playlist blending your favourites with tracks Spotify thinks you’ll love. Premium users can also enjoy a new playlist with music videos from their top artists (in select markets).
• Top Artist Insights: Discover your “Longest Listening Streak” with your favourite artist and see where you rank among their fans.
• Artist and Podcaster Clips: Exclusive messages from artists like Billie Eilish, ROSE, and Usher, as well as podcasters from popular shows like Crime Junkie and Diary of a CEO, are waiting for loyal listeners.

Also read: Apple Music Replay 2024 is finally here: Here’s how to access your listening stats

AI-powered features

This year, Spotify brings AI into the mix to enhance your Wrapped experience:

• Your AI Podcast: For the first time ever, Spotify is unveiling an AI podcast about your 2024 Spotify Wrapped music listening, built with Google’s NotebookLM. Available in select countries for a limited time.
• AI DJ: Available in English and Spanish for Premium users, this feature offers commentary on your year in music.
• AI Playlist: Create custom playlists by entering prompts like “my top 5 genres” to go beyond your Wrapped results.

How to check your Spotify Wrapped 2024

To access Wrapped, make sure your Spotify app is updated. Head to the Wrapped feed on your Home screen for all the insights. You can share your results on social media.

Apple enthusiasts, brace yourselves. If you're already enjoying the M4 chip-powered iPad Pro with its OLED display and nano-texture option, you might wonder what’s next. Well, Apple’s next big leap for the iPad Pro is reportedly in the works, and we now have a hint about when to expect the M5-powered upgrade.  

Renowned Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo recently shared some exciting details about the next iPad Pro. According to Kuo, the upcoming model featuring the M5 processor is set to enter mass production in the second half of 2025.  

Also read: When will Tim Cook leave? Apple CEO answers in a new interview 

Kuo mentioned this in a Medium post: "The iPad Pro equipped with the M5 processor is expected to enter mass production in 2H25. The company’s business momentum in 2H25 is anticipated to benefit significantly from Apple’s new product launches."  

This timeline aligns with Apple’s usual strategy of refreshing the iPad Pro lineup every 18 months, though there have been exceptions. The current M4 iPad Pro models were launched in May 2024, making a fall 2025 release for the M5 versions highly likely.  

While details about the M5 iPad Pro are scarce, the inclusion of the M5 chip isn’t a surprise since it’s the natural successor to the M4. However, considering the significant upgrades introduced with the M4 models this year—such as the OLED display and nano-texture option—it’s likely the 2025 models will feature smaller refinements rather than major design overhauls.  

Also read: This is Tim Cook’s four word defence for Apple’s late entry into the AI race 

If Apple sticks to its usual schedule, we can expect a busy fall in 2025. The iPhones, Apple Watches, and possibly AirPods will likely launch in September, followed by the new iPad Pro and Macs with M5 chips in October or November.  

While 2025 might seem far away, Apple fans can already start imagining how the M5 chip will take the iPad Pro’s performance to the next level. 

After its Chinese launch, OnePlus is gearing up to launch its OnePlus 13 lineup globally. The series will include to smartphones: the flagship OnePlus 13 and its more affordable brother- the OnePlus 13R. Thanks to the Chinese launch and the rumours and leaks surfacing online, we know most of what to expect from both of these smartphones. If you have your eyes on these two and are confused about which one you should go for when they are available, then here are 10 major differences between OnePlus 13 and OnePlus 13R that will help you decide better.

OnePlus 13 vs OnePlus 13R major differences

Design

On the design front, the OnePlus 13 can carry a circular camera housing with Hasselblad branding, while the 13R can get a square-ish module. Both are expected to feature aluminum and glass, though the 13R might opt for plastic in some variants to cut costs.

Display

OnePlus 13 can feature a bigger 6.82-inch OLED display while the 13R can feature a slightly smaller 6.7-inch OLED display. Adding to that, the OnePlus 13 can sport a slightly curved display, whereas the 13R could come with a flat screen for practicality.

Back Materials

With the OnePlus 13, we might get to see a faux leather back option. The OnePlus 13R can skip on this.

Camera Setup

The OnePlus 13's triple-camera system includes a periscope telephoto lens, while the 13R might downgrade to a macro sensor. The OnePlus 13 is expected to have all three 50-megapixel sensors, while the OnePlus 13R can have just a 50MP main camera.

Battery Technology

Both phones could share a 6,000mAh silicon-carbon battery, with 100W wired and 50W wireless charging support.

Performance and RAM

OnePlus 13 can be powered by the latest Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset. However, the OnePlus 13R can get the last generation’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip.

AI features

AI features will likely appear in both devices. However, certain features can be limited to the OnePlus 13 and to some regions.

Software

Both models are expected to launch with OxygenOS 15 based on Android 15.

Weight and size

The 13R could be lighter, as it won’t have certain features like the periscope zoom system.

Price tag

The OnePlus 13 will be the premium pick with a heavier price tag, while the 13R will deliver flagship-level performance at a more affordable price.

NASA is looking for innovative thinkers to help solve a critical problem: rescuing stranded astronauts on the Moon. To encourage brilliant ideas, the US space agency is offering a top prize of $20,000 (around Rs 16.9 lakh) as part of its South Pole Safety Challenge: Lunar Rescue System.

This competition, with a total prize pool of $45,000, aims to address the challenges astronauts might face while exploring the Moon’s South Pole. NASA is concerned about scenarios where astronauts might be injured or incapacitated and unable to return to safety on their own.  

Sarah Douglas, a NASA expert, emphasized the importance of this initiative, saying, "In the unforgiving lunar environment, the possibility of an astronaut crewmember becoming incapacitated due to unforeseen circumstances (injury, medical emergency, or a mission-related accident) is a critical concern."

Also read: When is first solar eclipse in 2025 in India: Date, timings, places you can see from and other details

The Moon’s South Pole has been chosen for exploration because it may contain water-ice trapped in shadowy craters. This resource could be crucial for astronauts, providing drinking water, cooling systems, and even the potential to produce oxygen and fuel (via The Sun).

However, the terrain poses serious challenges. According to NASA, the area is full of rocks, some as large as 20 meters, and craters up to 30 meters wide. Navigating this rough terrain is already tough, even without the added complication of rescuing an incapacitated partner.  

The rescue system must allow a single astronaut to transport a fully incapacitated partner across distances of up to 2 kilometers and slopes of up to 20 degrees. NASA states, "A single crew member should be able to transport an incapacitated crew member distances up to 2 km and a slope of up to 20 degrees on the lunar terrain without the assistance of a lunar rover." 

The solution must also be lightweight, easy to use, and effective in the Moon’s extreme conditions, where temperatures range from 54°C to -203°C.  

How to participate  

If you think you have the solution, you can submit your idea before January 23, 2025 on heroX portal. As NASA puts it, "Your creativity and expertise could bridge this critical gap, enhancing the safety measures for future lunar explorers."

Apple CEO Tim Cook has opened up about a range of topics in a recent interview, addressing the company’s approach to AI, the future of smartphones, and his own tenure at the company. Cook, who has been at Apple since 1998 and became CEO in 2011, shared insights on how long he sees himself in the role, alongside updates on Apple’s products and strategies.  

When Wired asked about his plans for stepping down, Cook explained, “I’ll do it until the voice in my head says, ‘It’s time,’ and then I’ll go and focus on what the next chapter looks like. But it’s hard to imagine life without Apple because my life has been wrapped up in this company since 1998. It’s the overwhelming majority of my adult life. And so I love it.”  

Tim Cook on AI  

Cook discussed Apple’s commitment to artificial intelligence and how it’s shaping the company’s products. While commenting on AI advancements like artificial general intelligence (AGI), he emphasised that such technology is still far off but acknowledged its potential benefits. “Right now, the technology is good enough where we can deliver it to people and change their lives, and that’s what we’re focused on,” he said.  

He also addressed concerns about responsible AI use, noting, “There’s so much extraordinary benefit for humanity. Are there some things you have to have guardrails on? Of course. We’re very deeply considerate about things that we do and don’t do. I hope that others are as well.”  

Also read: This is Tim Cook’s four word defence for Apple’s late entry into the AI race 

His view on Vision Pro

The Apple Vision Pro, while praised for its innovation, has faced criticism for its limited appeal. Cook described it as an early-adopter product, saying, “Those people are buying it, and the ecosystem is flourishing.” He also hinted at the evolution of form factors in mixed-reality technology, calling AR a “huge deal.”  

Also read: Apple CEO Tim Cook uses this AI tool everyday, says it changed his life 

His view on smartphones and screen time  

Cook reaffirmed that the smartphone has a long future, despite the rise of AI. However, he expressed concern about excessive screen time, saying, “If you’re looking at your phone more than you’re looking in somebody’s eyes, that’s a problem.”  

From product innovations to leadership, Cook’s insights offer a glimpse into the future of Apple and his personal journey. Whether he steps down soon or stays for years, it’s clear that Cook remains deeply committed to Apple’s vision.  

Apple is known for its product innovation and features. Apple is reportedly planning to release its first foldable iPhone in the second half of 2026. According to reports, Apple's upcoming foldable device will include some flagship features as well as unique folding mechanisms. While Apple has not confirmed the development of foldable iPhones, leaks indicate that it may shake up the foldable phone market. 

According to reports, Apple's foldable iPhone could feature a flexible OLED display that can withstand hundreds of thousands of folds without wearing. Speaking of hardware, the foldable iPhone could be powered by a newly designed powerful chipset, high-quality cameras, a sleek, premium design, and much more. Foldable iPhones, like all iPhones, will integrate seamlessly with services such as iCloud, Apple Music, and Apple Pay. 

Read: Foldable iPhone not dead, here’s when it could finally come to life

Over the last few years, the foldable smartphone market has grown steadily, with Samsung, Motorola, and Huawei holding major market shares. Foldable devices, such as the Galaxy Z series, have seen significant improvements, increasing customer trust in the concept. 

According to a DSCC report, the foldable phone category will experience its first year-over-year decline, with an overall effect of 5% in 2025. However, if Apple enters the foldable phone market, it is expected to strengthen it, particularly in India, where Apple has a large fan base.

“After enjoying at least 40% growth per year from 2019-2023, DSCC now believes the foldable smartphone display market will rise just 5% in 2024 and fall by 4% in 2025. Demand has stalled at around 22M panels,” the report added.

There is a lot of excitement surrounding the global release of the iPhone foldable, but it's important to remember that no concrete details about Apple's development of this device are yet available. However, given its history of creating trends, Apple has the ability to shape the trajectory of foldable technology, and its first foldable is expected to have a major impact.

Google has officially introduced Veo, its generative AI video model for businesses. The new model will allow businesses to create high-quality, AI-generated videos. Announced back in May, it has beaten OpenAI Sora by being available in private preview via Google’s Vertex AI platform.

The new Veo model offers a new tool for content creators by generating 1080p resolution videos from text or image-based prompts and can offer clips in a wide range of cinematic styles.

The tech giant shared a variety of examples including a dog looking at the camera and wagging its tail. According to The Verge, there’s no specific restrictions on the video length in the preview release but the previous announcements mention it could last beyond a minute.

READ: Google VideoFX, an AI tool that turns ideas into videos: All you need to know

Not only that, Google’s Imagen 3, the text-to-image generator will be available via Google Cloud’s Vertex platform next week. It also includes new features like prompt-based photo editing and even allows users to incorporate their own branding elements into the generated images. Together, these tools expand the creative capabilities of businesses using the AI in marketing and content strategies.

Veo has a lot of new features, but it probably has some drawbacks. Google does, however, have built-in protections to reduce dangerous content and stop copyright violations. Furthermore, DeepMind's SynthID technology, a digital watermark intended to address misinformation and misattribution issues, is included into all movies and images produced by Veo and Imagen 3.

On the other hand, OpenAI’s own video generation model Sora is yet to launch in the age where companies are already adopting AI for content creation. In fact, as per Google, 86 per cent of the organisations currently using generative AI report increased revenue, indicating the growing impact of these technologies.

OnePlus Community sale is back. OnePlus has announced that the upcoming sale is scheduled for December 6 and will end on December 17. During this period, customers will get some exciting offers on OnePlus products including flagship smartphones, foldables, and Nord series devices. Customers can avail of these discounts from multiple platforms such as OnePlus.in, Amazon.in, Flipkart, Myntra, as well as offline retail partners.

Here are some of the best deals on smartphones that you can consider:

OnePlus 12

Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset, the smartphone OnePlus 12 price will fall by up to Rs 6,000. Additionally, the customers can avail of Rs 7,000 bank discounts using ICICI bank, OneCard, and RBL bank credit cards. The customers can get a no-cost EMI option of up to 9 months.

READ: OnePlus 13R to launch in January 2025: 5 features we know ahead of it

OnePlus 12R

OnePlus 12R buyers can also get a similar Rs 6,000 on select variants. The customers can receive an additional Rs 3,000 bank discount and a no-cost EMI option of up to 6 months.

OnePlus Open Apex Edition

OnePlus Open Apex Edition buyers can get a Rs 20,000 bank discount using ICICI Bank, OneCard, and RBL Bank Credit Cards. Customers can opt for a no-cost EMI of up to 12 months.

OnePlus Nord 4

OnePlus Nord 4 price will drop by up to Rs 3,000 during the OnePlus Community sale. Customers can get Rs 2,000 bank discounts along with no-cost EMI options of up to 6 months.

OnePlus Nord CE 4

Powered by the Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 chipset, the OnePlus Nord CE 4 price may see a drop of Rs 2,000. The customers can get an additional Rs 1,000 bank discount and no-cost EMI option for up to 3 months.

OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite

OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite will see a Rs 2,000 price cut. The customers buying the device will also get OnePlus Bullets Wireless Z2. Additionally, the customers can also get a Rs 1,000 bank discount along with no-cost EMI of up to 3 months.

OnePlus announced earlier this week that it will launch its flagship OnePlus 13 in India in January 2025. Along with the OnePlus 13, we will get to see its more affordable brother the OnePlus 13R. Both of these smartphones have been launched in China already and the smartphone is known as the OnePlus Ace 5. From its Chinese debut, and the multiple leaks that are circulating on the internet, we have a good idea of what to expect from it.

Here are five things that we know about the OnePlus 13R ahead of its launch.

Display

The OnePlus 13R is expected to feature a 6.78-inch AMOLED display with a resolution of 1264 x 2780 pixels. It can come with up to a 120Hz refresh rate and 450 PPI. We might get to see a higher peak brightness compared to the predecessor OnePlus 12R.

Processor

The OnePLus 13R can be powered by last year’s flagship chipset Snapdragon 8 Gen 3. So good performance is something we can expect.

Camera

The OnePlus 13R can pack a triple camera setup. This can include a 50-megapixel primary lens, an 8-megapixel ultra-wide camera, and another 50-megapixel sensor. The front will house a 16-megapixel selfie camera.

Battery

As is the trend of the season, the OnePlus 13R can also pack a bigger 6000mAh battery. However, it will support 80W fast charging, slightly slower than the 100W charging found in the OnePlus 12R.

Software and Features

The OnePlus 13R can feature OxygenOS 15.0 based on Android 15. With this, you will get to use features like Bluetooth 5.4, NFC, USB Type-C, and an infrared remote control function.

For now, let’s take these features with a pinch of salt as OnePlus can make some changes with the Indian variant.