Phone & OS

A new rumor has surfaced suggesting that Apple may release a 'Plus' variant of the iPhone SE 4, in addition to the standard model. This information comes from Japanese blog, Macotakara, which has a history of providing accurate information about upcoming Apple devices. According to the report, the iPhone SE 4 is expected to use the iPhone 14 design as a template, with a single camera on the back. However, the 'Plus' variant, if it materializes, may feature a larger 6.7-inch display, similar to the iPhone 14 Plus. This is speculation at this point, as the final design and dimensions of the iPhone SE 4 have not yet been decided, according to the report. The standard iPhone SE 4 is expected to have the same dimensions as the iPhone 14, measuring 146.7 x 71.5 x 7.8mm. The location of the TrueDepth front camera is also expected to be the same as on the iPhone 14. The arrangement of the microphone and stereo speakers is also expected to be identical to the iPhone 14. Addition...

  Google has officially released Android 15, the latest iteration of its popular mobile operating system, which is now rolling out to Pixel devices. This update brings several new features and enhancements, including improved security, redesigned interface elements, and enhanced user experience. Security Enhancements Android 15 introduces a new feature called Private space, which allows users to create a separate, secure environment for sensitive apps. This feature can be accessed through the app drawer or by searching for "Private space." Private space includes apps such as Camera, Chrome, Contacts, and Photos, and users can customize the lock settings to secure their data. Additionally, Android 15 enhances the security of Find My Device and other sensitive settings by requiring PIN, password, or biometric authentication. The operating system also includes enhanced factory reset protection, making it more difficult for thieves to reset devices without the owner...

  Adobe, a leading innovator in digital media and marketing solutions, has recently unveiled a groundbreaking addition to its Firefly suite—a cutting-edge video generator. This new tool is designed to revolutionize the way users create and share video content, offering a seamless and efficient experience that leverages the latest advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning. The video generator, integrated within the Firefly platform, enables users to produce high-quality videos with minimal effort. By harnessing the power of AI, the tool can automatically generate video content based on user-provided text, images, and audio inputs. This functionality not only streamlines the video creation process but also democratizes access to professional-grade video production, making it accessible to a broader audience. One of the standout features of the video generator is its ability to adapt to various user needs. Whether one is creating a promotional video for a busin...

  A recent leak has surfaced, showcasing a purported case for the upcoming iPhone SE 4, which is expected to be announced in early 2025. The image, shared by well-established tipster @SonnyDickson, provides insight into the design choices that Apple may have made for its next affordable iPhone. At first glance, the case design appears to be similar to that of the current iPhone SE 3, with the rear camera bump and button placement remaining largely unchanged. However, rumors suggest that the iPhone SE 4 will feature significant design tweaks, including the adoption of Face ID and the removal of Touch ID and the home button. The leaked case design does not confirm or contradict these rumors, but it does suggest that the iPhone SE 4 may have a similar overall design to the current model, albeit with some potential changes to the screen size and notch. The rumored 6.1-inch display and iconic notch would give the iPhone SE 4 a different look and feel compared to its predecessor....

  Image: Samsung In a move that is expected to bolster user satisfaction and device longevity, Samsung has announced that its newly launched Galaxy A16 5G model will receive six years of software updates. This decision is a significant departure from the standard practice in the mid-range smartphone market, where devices often receive updates for a shorter period. Moreover, Samsung has revealed that this six-year support window will not be limited to the Galaxy A16 5G alone. The company has stated that many of its future mid-range devices will also benefit from this extended support period, ensuring that newer models remain relevant and secure for an extended duration. This new policy reflects Samsung's commitment to its users and underscores the company's focus on enhancing the value proposition of its devices. However, it is worth noting that this extended support does not apply to older Samsung models, which will not be retroactively included in the six-year update policy. S...

  In a significant development, Google may be working on introducing extension support to the Chrome browser app for Android. This move could potentially bridge the gap between the mobile and desktop versions of the browser, offering users a more comprehensive browsing experience. Historically, Google has been hesitant to offer extension support on mobile versions of Chrome, with some reports suggesting that the company may be concerned about the impact of ad blockers, which are available as extensions. However, with the increasing demand for a more feature-rich mobile browsing experience, Google may be reevaluating its stance. According to recent reports, Google is developing a new version of Chrome for Android, aimed at "desktop" devices like Chromebooks. This new version, dubbed "Desktop Android," is expected to support browser extensions, a feature that has been absent from the mobile version of Chrome. The introduction of Desktop Android is part of Goog...

  Google has commenced the rollout of its Android Theft Protection features, designed to provide users with an additional layer of security in the event of device theft. This new functionality is aimed at safeguarding personal data and preventing unauthorized access to stolen devices. Theft Detection Lock The Theft Detection Lock feature utilizes a combination of device sensors, Wi-Fi, and smart device connections to detect when a device is being taken without the owner's consent. If the system determines that the device is being stolen, the screen will automatically lock, thereby preventing access to personal data. This feature is triggered when the device is in use and unlocked, and the screen can be locked up to twice a day. Offline Device Lock In the event that a thief attempts to disable internet connectivity to prevent location tracking, the Offline Device Lock feature will be triggered. This feature requires two conditions to be met: the device must be active...

 Samsung has announced plans to expand its "One UI" software branding, currently exclusive to Galaxy devices, to its other major tech products, including TVs and home appliances, starting in 2025. This move aims to create a cohesive software experience across the company's portfolio. One UI, first introduced in 2018, replaced the widely criticized TouchWiz Android skin on Galaxy devices, providing a welcome and well-received update. Since then, Samsung has continued to build upon and refine the software, even expanding it to smartwatches following the company's adoption of Wear OS. During its annual developer conference, Samsung revealed that One UI will become the new name for the company's software experiences across major product lines, encompassing TVs and home appliances. While details on how this will affect software design and features are scarce, the announcement suggests a unified design language and integrated software experience across devices. ...

  Image: Samsung Samsung has announced the extension of passkey support to its smart TV lineup and other smart home devices, further enhancing the security and convenience of its ecosystem. This move is part of the company's ongoing efforts to streamline user authentication across its range of devices, which includes smartphones, tablets, and smart home products running on the Tizen operating system. Passkeys, a more secure alternative to traditional passwords, offer a passwordless authentication process that relies on biometric data or device-based verification. This technology is designed to mitigate the risks associated with password-based security, such as phishing attacks or credential theft, by eliminating the need for users to input passwords. By integrating passkey support into its smart TVs and smart home devices, Samsung aims to provide users with a seamless and secure experience across its connected ecosystem. The passkey feature will work in conjunction with Sam...

In a significant departure from its traditional release schedule, Google's mid-range Pixel 9a is rumored to launch as early as March 2025, the earliest release date in the lineup's history. This development comes on the heels of the Pixel 9 series' early launch in August, which was released over two months before the usual October expectation and ahead of Android 15's debut. According to a report by Android Headlines, citing multiple sources, the Pixel 9a will be available for pre-order in mid-March 2025. This revised schedule aligns with the rest of the Pixel 9 series and may explain the recent surge in leaks and prototype sightings. The report also references earlier CAD-based renders of the Pixel 9a as evidence of the altered schedule. Google's mid-range Pixel series has historically had a volatile release schedule. The initial Pixel 3a was released at Google I/O in May 2019, while the Pixel 4a was delayed until August due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Pi...

Microsoft has officially launched Office 2024 for both Mac and Windows users, offering an updated suite of productivity applications available through a one-time purchase. The new version, introduced on October 2, 2024, is priced at $149.99 for the Home and Student edition, which includes core applications such as Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. This release marks a continuation of Microsoft's strategy to provide a perpetual license option for users who prefer a standalone product rather than subscribing to Microsoft 365, the company's cloud-based subscription service. The one-time purchase versions of Office 2024 will not include access to cloud services such as OneDrive or Outlook and will not receive the continuous updates that Microsoft 365 subscribers benefit from. However, Office 2024 will receive security updates and necessary patches for several years post-release. The Home and Business edition, priced at $249.99, includes additional access to Outlook alongside the standar...

In 2023, Google introduced Gemini Nano, a lightweight version of its Gemini AI technology, designed to enable Android devices to run AI-powered features locally without relying on an internet connection. Initially, the technology was exclusive to the Pixel 8 Pro, but it has since been expanded to other devices, including the Galaxy S24 series. However, until now, there has been a lack of clarity regarding which smartphones support Gemini Nano and which ones feature the enhanced multimodality version. Thankfully, this ambiguity has been resolved, courtesy of a report by Android Police, which has obtained confirmation from Google on the devices that support Gemini Nano and those that feature the multimodality variant. Devices that Support Gemini Nano The following devices have been confirmed to support Gemini Nano: Google Pixel 8 Google Pixel 8 Pro Google Pixel 8a Motorola Edge 50 Ultra Motorola Razr 50 Ultra Samsung Galaxy S24 Samsung Galaxy S24...

Image: Microsoft Microsoft has announced the latest iteration of its Copilot AI technology, which has been evolving over the past year. The new version of Copilot, dubbed Copilot 2.0, represents a significant step forward in the development of autonomous and augmented intelligence in various applications. In a press release, Microsoft disclosed that Copilot 2.0 can now read users' screens, engage in more nuanced conversations, and even speak aloud to the user. This significant enhancement marks a major milestone in the company's efforts to create more sophisticated and intuitive AI assistants. What does Copilot 2.0 offer? According to Microsoft, Copilot 2.0 offers several key benefits: Enhanced screen reading capabilities : The new version of Copilot has been trained on a vast amount of natural language data, enabling it to comprehend and accurately read users' screens. This includes recognizing visual cues, such as font styles, colors, and layout, as well ...

  Recent rumors have been circulating about the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold Special Edition, a device expected to be based on the Galaxy Z Fold 6 with notable differences. The latest leak has revealed the alleged release date and preorder period of this highly anticipated smartphone. According to reports, the Galaxy Z Fold Special Edition was initially known as the Galaxy Z Fold 6 Ultra and was leaked months ago. The project underwent multiple decision changes, including a potential cancellation, as Samsung aimed to compete with the thinness of other foldable smartphones, such as the Honor Magic V3. Despite initial setbacks, the company resumed the project and is now expected to launch the device on October 18, with preorders opening until October 24 and shipping starting on October 25. Interestingly, the Galaxy Z Fold Special Edition recently appeared on the Samsung India website, suggesting that the device may be available in more markets than initially anticipated, includ...