The listing document reveals it will be larger and slimmer than its predecessor. .
Other specs revealed – Battery capacity 631-648 mAh, Bluetooth (BR+EDR+BLE), GNSS, NFC and dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz and 5GHz).
Rumours suggest the OnePlus Watch 3 might launch soon.
OnePlus Watch 2 was released in February 2024. (Image credit – OnePlus)
The OnePlus Watch 3 has again surfaced online with a regulatory listing revealing some key details about its design and specifications. While not much is known about the upcoming smartwatch from official sources, it is speculated based on hints and online appearances that the smartwatch will be launched sooner than expected. Rumours also suggest the smartwatch is also expected to be slimmer than its predecessor while boasting a larger battery.
According to the FCC listing spotted by folks at 91Mobiles, the OnePlus Watch 3 will retain a similar overall size to the Watch 2 measuring 46.6 x 47.6mm. It is just slightly larger than the previous generation’s 47 x 46.6mm dimensions.
OnePlus Watch 3 in FCC listing revealing connectivity features. (Screenshot credit – 91Mobiles)OnePlus Watch 3 in FCC listing revealing battery capacity and dimensions. (Screenshot credit – 91Mobiles)
However, it will be thinner at 11.75mm thickness compared to the Watch 2’s 12.1mm thickness. The difference may seem very minimal on the specification sheet but experts believe it could make the new watch more comfortable to wear.
The difference in dimensions is not the only change we know about. There is a significant jump in battery capacity as well. The listing mentions a battery in the range of 631-648 mAh (rated and typical capacities), which is a substantial increase from the 500 mAh battery in the OnePlus Watch 2.
Other than that, the FCC listing doesn’t reveal any images or design details but it confirms key connectivity options, which include Bluetooth (BR+EDR+BLE), GNSS, NFC and dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz and 5GHz).
Tipster Yogesh Brar also mentioned the OnePlus Watch 3 last month in a post in X (formerly Twitter). Brar suggested that the OnePlus Watch 3 will be launched in global markets soon. In the post, the watch was mentioned alongside the OnePlus 13 and OnePlus 13R hinting that they might debut together.
OnePlus 13
OnePlus 13R
OnePlus Watch 3
These are the upcoming products scheduled to launch soon in Global markets.
— Yogesh Brar (@heyitsyogesh) November 25, 2024
While the exact launch date remains unclear, tech enthusiasts online believe it could arrive soon since the previous OnePlus Watch 2 was launched in February 2024.
FAQs
Q1. What are the expected dimensions of the OnePlus Watch 3?
Answer. According to the FCC listing, the OnePlus Watch 3 will measure 46.6 x 47.6mm and have a thickness of 11.75mm, making it slimmer than its predecessor.
Q2. What is the battery capacity of the OnePlus Watch 3?
Answer. The OnePlus Watch 3 is expected to have a battery capacity in the range of 631-648 mAh, a substantial increase from the 500 mAh battery in the OnePlus Watch 2.
Q3. What connectivity options will be available on the OnePlus Watch 3?
Answer. The OnePlus Watch 3 will include Bluetooth (BR+EDR+BLE), GNSS, NFC, and dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz and 5GHz).
Nothing has launched a new Snake Game Widget for smartphones.
Accessible via the Nothing Community Widgets App, the widget is currently available for download in India.
The widget was developed with community members Rahul Janardhanan and Thomas Legendre.
Explore the new Snake Game on Nothing Phones. (Image credit – Nothing)
Are you old enough to remember the snake game in old feature phones? Well, even if you are not, those snake games are iconic enough for anyone who has used mobile phones in its initial says. What if we tell you the snake game is back?
Nothing has introduced a new Snake Game Widget offering users a nostalgic gaming experience right on their home screens. The smartphone maker made the announcement on its official handle on X (formerly Twitter)
Snake just got a reboot.
Head to Google Playstore to get involved. pic.twitter.com/9MVKM1yKBc
— Nothing (@nothing) December 4, 2024
The widget is now available in India and was developed in collaboration with Rahul Janardhanan and Thomas Legendre, two prominent community members. Rahul is known for creating innovative widget concepts. Meanwhile, Thomas has contributed to projects like Ear (web) and the Simone Glyph Game.
How to Download and Set Up the Widget?
To access the Nothing Snake Game Widget, follow these steps:
Download the Nothing Community Widgets App – Available on the Play Store.
Add the Widget to Your Home Screen – Once installed, place the widget on your home screen.
Update or Reboot if Needed – If you don’t see the widget, update the Nothing Launcher or reboot your phone, especially if you’re on the Nothing OS 3 beta version.
You can download and place the widget on your home screen to play the Snake game. (Screenshot credit – Nothing/90Mobiles)
Here’s how to play the game once downloaded –
Swipe to Control: Move the snake in different directions to collect food.
Dynamic Challenges: The snake’s speed increases as your score climbs.
Pause and High Score: Double-tap the widget to pause the game and view your high score.
Importantly, the widget is available in a single 2×2 size, which may feel a bit small for gameplay. Nothing might add more size options in the future. It’s also not tied to Nothing OS 3.0, which means no updates are required to enjoy the game.
Meanwhile, Nothing has rolled out the second open beta of Nothing OS 3.0 for the Phone (2) with the stable version expected later this month.
FAQs
Q1. What is the new feature launched by Nothing on their smartphones?
Answer. Nothing has launched a new Snake Game Widget offering users a nostalgic gaming experience right on their home screens.
Q2. How can users download and set up the Nothing Snake Game Widget?
Answer. Users can download the Nothing Community Widgets App from the Play Store, add the widget to their home screen, and update or reboot if needed.
Q3. What are the gameplay features of the Snake Game Widget?
Answer. Users can swipe to control the snake, face dynamic challenges as the snake’s speed increases, and double-tap to pause the game and view their high score.
Bitcoin’s value has surged by approximately 45% since Trump won.
Rise in value boosted by increased investment in U.S. bitcoin-backed ETFs, as per reports.
Bitcoin has crossed the $100,000 mark. (Photo by Traxer on Unsplash)
Bitcoin has reached a historic milestone crossing the $100,000 mark. The rise in value comes as the election of Donald Trump as US president makes it an optimistic scene for a cryptocurrency-friendly regulatory environment under his administration.
The world’s largest cryptocurrency climbed 3% to hit $101,000, its highest price ever recorded.
Since Trump’s victory on November 5, Bitcoin’s value has soared by approximately 45%. Analysts attribute the spike to increased investment in U.S. bitcoin-backed exchange-traded funds (ETFs), as confidence grows in a more favourable climate for crypto innovation and regulation.
Below are some industry expert comments on the Bitcoin value rise
Dan Coatsworth, Investment Analyst Aj Bell, London – “Smashing through the $100,000 level does not represent Bitcoin going mainstream. It’s merely a psychological factor and ultimately just a number. A lot of people have got rich from the cryptocurrency soaring in value this year, but this high-risk asset isn’t suitable for everyone. It’s volatile, unpredictable and driven by speculation, none of which makes for a sleep-at-night investment.”
Chang Wei Liang, Fx And Credit Strategist, Dbs, Singapore – “Bitcoin prices are buoyant with crypto adoption possibly reaching an inflexion point in the US. The incoming Trump administration is seen as more crypto-friendly, and 2025 could see progress in setting up a U.S. Bitcoin strategic reserve, on top of changes in regulatory guidance that could help industry growth.”
Shoki Omori, Chief Japan Desk Strategist, Mizuho Securities, Tokyo – “Individual investors must be excited to see the BTC price top $100,000 following the news of Paul Atkins being nominated as SEC chair. Markets knew Gensler would be stepping down and there would be someone who is less aggressive on crypto regulations. Of course, this doesn’t mean BTC will rally forever, as there will be moves to take profits.”
“I think if BTC were to rally more from here, other crypto majors should catch up a bit first, such as Ethereum. Ethereum looks cheap against Bitcoin. Ripple shot up, but again we saw profit taking at $2.80. Altos look choppy. The crypto community is looking for positive headlines to take crypto prices broadly up even higher. The tailwind from the Trump trade is starting to weaken as markets have a lot of headlines already priced in,” Omori further added.
Jeff Mei, Coo At Btse, Hong Kong – “Bitcoin’s surge past the $100,000 mark is not just a milestone; it represents a pivotal moment for the cryptocurrency industry. The confidence is spurred by an increasingly favourable regulatory environment in the U.S., particularly with the appointment of Paul Atkins to chair the SEC. This is likely to drive further institutional investment in the sector, giving Bitcoin more credibility and leading to a new wave of adoption.”
Mei also said, “Looking forward, Bitcoin could reach even greater heights as more institutions begin to perceive it as a viable store of value and allocate funds to Bitcoin ETFs. I’d also expect more institutions to rotate into Ethereum ETFs, which haven’t been as popular as the Bitcoin ones up until now. “
Geoff Kendrick, Global Head Of Digital Assets Research, Standard Chartered, London – “At the end of the day, it’s just a number…but the reality is we’ve been able to get to this level because the industry has become institutionalised this year particularly – and that’s mostly the ETF inflows. Roughly 3% of the total supply of bitcoins that will ever exist have been purchased in 2024 by institutional money.”
Tony Sycamore, Analyst, IG, Sydney – “After spending the past 12 sessions working off overbought readings and rebuilding energy, the King of Crypto has smashed its way above $100k in trading today. This is likely to be the catalyst for the next wave of momentum buying which takes it towards the next stop of $105k, before $120k in 2025.”
Kyle Rodda, Senior Financial Market Analyst, Capital.Com, Melbourne – “It’s a massive milestone for the true believers and possibly evidence of the asset’s legitimisation. If we are talking about where we go from here, there’s reason to believe this thing could keep going. These end-of-year melt-ups often see Bitcoin more than double in value.”
“Given the reduced regulatory risk, the continued appeal of non-fiat assets because of the perception of US fiscal profligacy, and greater geopolitical risks, there are continued tailwinds that could support prices going higher,” Rodda noted.
Justin D’anethan, Independent Crypto Analyst, Hong Kong – “Bitcoin crossing $100,000 is more than just a milestone; it’s a testament to shifting tides in finance, technology, and geopolitics. The figure not that long ago dismissed as fantasy stands as a reality.”
“Institutional adoption is evident, as seen by the increased volume on the CME, ETFs (exchange traded funds), and derivatives markets during U.S. hours. Essentially, funds now need to either get involved or risk standing on the sidelines while more gutsy competitors potentially outperform,” he added.
Bobby Ong, Co-Founder, Coingecko, Kuala Lumpur – “Bitcoin reaching the $100,000 milestone marks a significant moment for the cryptocurrency market, reflecting its growing maturity and mainstream adoption. The psychological importance of $100,000 is also attracting new investors and driving market sentiment. This rally demonstrates Bitcoin’s position as a leading financial innovation, solidifying its reputation as a digital store of value and a hedge against traditional economic uncertainties. It also underscores the growing acceptance of cryptocurrencies as a legitimate asset class.”
Shane Oliver, Chief Economist & Head Of Investment Strategy, Amp, Sydney – “As time goes by it’s proving itself as part of the financial landscape, slotting in more as a store of value as opposed to a regular asset you can value on the basis of things it produces, like shares.”
Ray Attrill, Head Of Fx Research, Nab, Sydney -“It’s the ultimate speculative asset, isn’t it. I wasn’t surprised … it was probably the cleanest ‘Trump trade’. Just from a regulatory point of view and the concept of a much more easily traded asset, it’s justified its run up, though it’s now taken on a life of its own. The test will be if we do have a big puke in risk sentiment at some point, and we start to see a major stock market correction. Where does crypto sit in that? I don’t know the answer.”
Richard Teng, Chief Executive Officer, Binance, Dubai – “Almost 16 years since its first block was mined in 2009, bitcoin has reached the landmark milestone of $100K per coin, placing the asset at a total market capitalisation of $2.1 trillion. This also places bitcoin firmly on the very short list of just seven assets or companies that have achieved more than 2 trillion dollars in market capitalisation, the rest being gold and tech giants NVIDIA, Apple, Microsoft, Alphabet (Google), and Amazon.”
Teng also said, “With talks of a U.S. Strategic Bitcoin reserve and more companies adding Bitcoin to their corporate treasuries, we are on the precipice of true mainstream global adoption.”
Jean-Baptiste Graftieaux, Ceo, Bitstamp, Luxembourg – “Bitcoin reaching $100,000 is a watershed moment, highlighting its resilience after a challenging few years. Despite shifts in the political and regulatory landscape, bitcoin has proven its staying power.”
“This milestone reflects the growing maturity of the crypto market, as traditional financial institutions and retail customers increasingly embrace digital assets. Looking ahead, we anticipate broader integration of crypto into retail, professional and institutional holdings and pensions, coupled with a more diverse range of trading services and instruments, mirroring the evolution of traditional finance,” he commented.
FAQs
Q1. What historic milestone in value did Bitcoin recently achieve?
Answer. Bitcoin crossed the $100,000 mark, reaching an all-time high of $101,000.
Q2. What has contributed to Bitcoin’s surge since the election of Donald Trump?
Answer. Bitcoin’s value has surged by approximately 45% since Trump’s victory, attributed to increased investment in U.S. bitcoin-backed ETFs and growing confidence in a favourable climate for crypto innovation and regulation.
Pushpa 2: The Rule starring Allu Arjun leaked online soon after its release.
The film has received positive reviews for its action, performances and direction.
It is expected to break box-office records despite piracy leaks.
Writer Srikanth Vissa confirms a third instalment, Pushpa 3: The Rampage to be bigger and better.
Pushpa 2: The Rule official poster. (Image credit – IMDB)
The highly anticipated Allu Arjun’s Pushpa 2: The Rule hit theatres on December 5 delivering a complete entertainer with intense action. The response has been thrilled for the sequel as it created immense buzz even before its release.
Unfortunately, just hours after its grand debut, the film reportedly fell victim to piracy. HD copies of the movie surfaced on unauthorized platforms including Ibomma, Movierulz, Tamilrockers, Filmyzilla, TamilYogi, Tamilblasters, Bolly4u, Jaisha Moviez, 9xmovies, and Moviesda.
However, director Sukumar’s Pushpa 2 is still expected to shatter all existing box-office records after the success of its first part Pushpa: The Rise.
Allu Arjun’s Pushpa 2: The Rule was leaked online soon after its grand release in theatres. (The image belongs to the makers of Pushpa 2: The Rule)
Starring Allu Arjun as Pushpa Raj, Rashmika Mandanna as Srivalli and Fahadh Faasil as Bhanwar Singh Shekhawat, the film has garnered praise for its action sequences, entertainment value and stellar performances.
Early reviews have been overwhelmingly positive with fans hailing Allu Arjun’s electrifying portrayal and Sukumar’s visionary direction.
The production houses Mythri Movie Makers and Sukumar Writings have not yet commented on the piracy issue.
However, the incident has reignited calls for stricter anti-piracy measures to protect filmmakers’ efforts and curb financial losses in the industry.
The piracy issue surrounding Pushpa2 is a stark reminder of the challenges faced by the industry. Other major films like Baahubali – The Beginning, Adipurush, and Kalki 2898 AD have also been victims of piracy in the past.
Pushpa 3: The Rampage is Coming
Dialogue writer Srikanth Vissa confirmed in a recent internet that Pushpa 3 is in development. (Image credit – Unknown)
Meanwhile, some exciting news for fans is also generating buzz. The Pushpa universe is expanding!
It has been confirmed that the franchise will include a third instalment titled Pushpa 3: The Rampage.
In an interview with Pinkvilla, Srikanth Vissa, the dialogue writer for the franchise, revealed that while scripting Pushpa 2, the creative team discovered new characters and plotlines that made the story even richer and more complex.
“Now, the next installment called Pushpa 3: The Rampage would be much bigger, grander, and better than Pushpa 2: The Rule. We will be including more characters in the whole narrative with the 3rd part,” Vissa shared.
As for Pushpa 3’s antagonist, no confirmations have been made.
The team has approached some prominent Bollywood actors sparking speculation about who might take on this significant role.
Fans are particularly excited about the possibility of Vijay Deverakonda joining the cast, potentially as Pushpa’s enemy.
Vissa also noted the same saying “When it comes to the villains for the 3rd instalment, it hasn’t been confirmed to be played by anyone yet. We had approached some big Bollywood actors to enact the role, but no confirmation has been made.”
FAQs
Q1. When was Pushpa 2: The Rule released in theatres?
Answer. Pushpa 2: The Rule was released in theatres on December 5, 2024.
Q2. Was Pushpa 2 leaked online?
Answer. Just hours after its release, Pushpa 2 reportedly fell victim to piracy, with HD copies surfacing on unauthorized platforms like Ibomma, Movierulz, and Tamilrockers.
Q3. What are the plans for the Pushpa franchise?
Answer. The Pushpa franchise will expand with a third installment, Pushpa 3: The Rampage, which will be bigger, and grander and feature more characters and potential Bollywood actors.
Xiaomi launched a Mijia Mini Washing Machine with a 1kg capacity and a sleek design.
Health-Focused and Efficient Features – high-temperature steam sterilization, intelligent detergent dispensing, fabric protection and quick wash cycles.
The machine supports remote control via the Mi Home app.
Mijia Mini Washing Machine. (Image credit – Xiaomi)
Xiaomi has been extremely active in introducing different categories of products and building a complete ecosystem of electronics. The Chinese company has just now unveiled the Mijia Mini Washing Machine 1kg, a compact and feature-rich home appliance under its Mijia brand.
This portable washer is currently available on JD.com for 2699 Yuan ($370) with a presale price of 1999 Yuan ($274).
Xiaomi Mijia Mini Washing Machine – Design
Xiaomi Mijia Mini Washing Machine – Design
The Mijia Mini Washing Machine, model XHQG10MJ402, features a sleek white design and is perfect for small, frequent loads.
It has a 1kg washing capacity and 0.5kg drying capacity with a spin speed of 800 RPM for effective moisture removal.
Its lightweight build (22 kg net) and compact size (328mm x 452mm x 461mm) make it ideal for tight spaces.
Xiaomi Mijia Mini Washing Machine – Features
Xiaomi Mijia Mini Washing Machine – Features
Smart and Health-Focused Features –
Mijia Mini Washing Machine comes with a high-temperature steam sterilisation feature. (Image credit – Xiaomi)
High-Temperature Steam Sterilisation: A 95°C cycle sanitizes garments to a medical-grade standard, eliminating pathogens like HPV and bacteria.
Intelligent Detergent Dispensing: Automatically adjusts detergent based on load weight to reduce residue and improve cleanliness.
Fabric Protection: Gentle drying controls temperature to preserve delicate materials like silk.
Farments in the Mijia Mini Washing Machine are sanitised to a medical-grade standard. (Image credit – Xiaomi)
Efficient and Convenient Operation
Quick Cycles: A 45-minute wash-and-dry cycle and a 15-minute quick wash.
Automatic Airing: Activates if clothes aren’t removed within 30 minutes after washing.
Custom Programs: Offers specific cycles for different fabrics.
Smart Connectivity
Mi Home App: Supports remote control and voice commands through Xiaomi’s XiaoAi assistant.
OTA Upgrades: Ensures the washing machine gets continuous improvements.
Extra Safety: Includes a child lock and barrel light to prevent items from being left behind.
Power and Build
The machine operates on 750W.
It has a water pressure range of 0.03MPa to 0.8MPa.
It features a DD direct drive motor for smooth and quiet performance.
In other recent Xiaomi Launches, the company introduced the Mijia Floor Scrubber with 15000Pa suction and anti-hair technology and the Mijia Smart Inverter Dehumidifier 30L equipped with dual-rotor technology and HyperOS last month.
FAQs
Q1. What is the washing and drying capacity of the Xiaomi Mijia Mini Washing Machine?
Answer. The Xiaomi Mijia Mini Washing Machine has a 1kg washing capacity and a 0.5kg drying capacity.
Q2. What health-focused features does the Mijia Mini Washing Machine offer?
Answer. The machine includes high-temperature steam sterilization at 95°C, intelligent detergent dispensing, and fabric protection features.
Q3. How can the Xiaomi Mijia Mini Washing Machine be controlled remotely?
Answer. The machine supports remote control via the Mi Home app and allows for voice commands through Xiaomi’s XiaoAi assistant.
The release of the Apple HomePod featuring display has been delayed to Q3 2025.
The upcoming HomePod is expected to feature an A18 chip and a 6-7-inch display.
Apple’s rumoured smart home IP camera is expected to launch in 2026.
It will work wirelessly with the new HomePod to create a central hub.
Apple HomePad to have display in future. Launch expected in the later half of 2025, as per reports. (Image credit – Apple)
It seems Apple fans who have been early waiting for the upcoming Apple HomePod with a display will now have to wait a bit longer.
Initially expected in early 2024 and later pushed to Q1 2025, the smart speaker’s release has now been delayed to Q3 2025, according to analyst Ming-Chi Kuo.
If Kuo’s latest prediction holds, the display-equipped HomePod could debut sometime between July and September 2025, likely after Apple’s annual WWDC event
In his recent Medium post, Kuo writes, “The mass production schedule for the display-equipped HomePod has been delayed multiple times. Initially forecasted for 2024 (as I predicted in 2023), it was postponed to 1Q25, and more recently, further delayed to after WWDC 2025/3Q25.”
“The delay in production is mainly due to software development. The display-equipped HomePod is expected to feature an A18 processor, a 6–7 inch display and support for Apple Intelligence,” Kuo further added.
The delay is reportedly tied to software development challenges. Despite all the production issues, the upcoming HomePod is shaping up to be a significant upgrade featuring Apple’s A18 chip and a stronger focus on smart home functionality compared to the current models.
One of the standout features will be its ability to work wirelessly with Apple’s rumoured smart home IP camera.
This integration could make the new HomePod a central hub for Apple’s smart home ecosystem.
The smart home IP camera is expected to launch in 2026. This launch timeline prediction was also shared by Kuo on X (formerly Twitter).
Apple is making its first foray into the smart home IP camera market, with mass production scheduled for 2026, targeting annual shipments in the tens of millions.
— 郭明錤 (Ming-Chi Kuo) (@mingchikuo) November 12, 2024
Kuo estimates that Apple will ship around 500,000 units of the display-equipped HomePod in the second half of 2025. If it performs well, annual shipments could reach a million units.
For now, Apple enthusiasts will have to wait to see how this new addition to the HomePod lineup evolves.
FAQs
Q1. When is the display-equipped HomePod expected to be released?
Answer. According to analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, the display-equipped HomePod is now expected to be released in Q3 2025, between July and September.
Q2. Why has the release of the HomePod With Display been delayed?
Answer. The delay in the release of the display-equipped HomePod is mainly due to software development challenges, as stated by Ming-Chi Kuo.
Q3. What are the expected features of the new HomePod with a display?
Answer. The new HomePod is expected to feature an A18 processor, a 6-7 inch display, and support for Apple Intelligence.
Instagram’s Broadcast Channels now allow creators to enable replies and prompts.
New features will enhance interaction with followers and boost engagement.
Meta is rolling out new metrics to help creators track their content’s performance.
Creators can also get personalised suggestions to improve engagement.
Instagram now has some new features for Broadcast channel creators to get closer to the community on the platform. (Image credit – Meta)
Meta has been developing new ways to boost user-creator interaction that will eventually only add to the platform engagement metrics for some time now. The latest addition has happened on Instagram.
Meta is making changes to Instagram’s Broadcast Channels adding new ways for creators to interact with their followers.
The tech giant announced the new features in a detailed blog post titled “Get Closer to Your Community With Replies, Prompts and Insights.”
The update will make it easier for creators to collaborate and engage while offering tools to track their content’s performance.
According to Meta’s blog post, here’s what’s new –
Replies: Give your followers a way to engage with your messages and each other.
Prompts: Kickstart conversations in your channel with Q&As and daily check-ins.
Insights and best practices: Understand what’s working and get helpful tips to meet your goals.
Here’s how each of these features will work.
Replies and Conversations
Previously, followers could only react to posts on Broadcast Channels with emojis. Now, creators can allow followers to reply directly to posts and respond to other users’ replies, creating a more interactive experience.
Instagram broadcast channel creators can now get replies and have real back-and-forth conversations with the audience. (Image credit – Meta)
For those worried about clutter, Meta assures that all replies will be grouped under the original message to keep things organised.
Creators can decide whether to enable replies. To turn them on:
Tap on your channel name.
Go to “Channel controls.”
Select “Allow members to reply to messages.”
If replies are left off, the channel retains its original one-to-many communication format, designed for announcements without follower input.
Prompts for Engagement
Instagram broadcast channel creators can start conversations with prompts. (Image credit – Meta)
The update also introduces prompts, letting creators kickstart conversations. They can ask followers to share their thoughts, recommendations, or experiences. For example, a creator might ask, “What’s your favourite restaurant in NYC?” or “What are you grateful for today?”
Followers have 24 hours to respond to a prompt using either text or a photo and can like other users’ responses as well.
To create a prompt, creators can go into the channel, tap “+” and select “Prompt.”
New Insights for Creators
Instagram broadcast channel creators to get new metrics. (Image credit – Meta)
To help creators understand their performance, Meta is rolling out new metrics. These insights will provide information on how well Broadcast Channel content is doing and offer personalised suggestions to improve engagement.
Instagram broadcast channel creators will get personalised guidance. (Image credit – Meta)
For example, if a creator wants more interaction, the app might recommend sending more frequent updates or sharing behind-the-scenes content.
With these updates, Broadcast Channels are evolving from one-way announcement tools into more interactive spaces where creators and followers can connect in meaningful ways.
FAQs
Q1. What new feature has Instagram Threads introduced for user privacy?
Answer. Instagram Threads is testing a new option to hide the “Replies” tab on your profile, which makes replies less visible while keeping the “Posts” and “Reposts” tabs visible.
Q2. How can creators enable replies in Instagram’s Broadcast Channels?
Answer. Creators can enable replies by tapping on their channel name, going to “Channel controls,” and selecting “Allow members to reply to messages.”
Q3. What is the new prompt feature in Instagram’s Broadcast Channels?
Answer. The new prompt feature lets creators kickstart conversations by asking followers to share their thoughts, recommendations, or experiences, with responses available for 24 hours.
Threads is testing a new feature that lets users hide the “Replies” tab on their profile.
It will allow them to view their own replies in the app’s settings.
Threads allow users to follow accounts from other fediverse platforms.
Features are currently being tested with a small group of users and have not officially launched yet
Threads has been on a spree of introducing new features that give users more control over their privacy and timelines. Here’s what’s new the platform is working on and how these updates could change your experience.
Hide Your Replies for Better Privacy
Screenshot shared by Alessandro Paluzzi on Threads.
Threads is testing a new option to make your replies less visible by letting you hide the “Replies” tab on your profile. This change leaves only two visible tabs: “Posts” and “Reposts.”
This feature provides a middle ground for those seeking more privacy without switching to a fully private profile, which restricts post visibility to approved followers. While replies already have limited visibility in Threads’ “For You” feed, this new option makes them even harder for others to find.
View on Threads
Reverse engineer Alessandro Paluzzi first noticed the feature, which is currently rolling out to the iOS app.
View on Threads
Meta confirmed to TechCrunch that the option is being tested with a small group of users but hasn’t officially launched yet.
Threads new feature screenshot. (Image credit – TechCrunch)
To check if you have access to this feature:
Go to your Threads profile and tap “Edit Profile.”
Scroll down to find the “Show your Replies” toggle.
By default, it’s enabled, but you can turn it off to hide your replies.
Even with this setting disabled, you can still view your replies in the Threads app’s Settings under sections like Saved items, Likes and Archive.
This isn’t the first control Threads has added for replies. Earlier, the platform introduced options to limit who can reply to your posts, letting you choose between anyone, people you follow, or only those mentioned in your post—similar to X.
Threads’ Fediverse Integration Getting Better, Users To Follow Fediverse Accounts
Threads is also improving its integration with the fediverse allowing users to follow accounts from other fediverse platforms and see their posts in their timeline. Users can enable notifications for these accounts.
Threads previously allowed users to share their posts in the fediverse and view replies and likes from fediverse accounts. Now, users can follow fediverse accounts that have interacted with their Threads posts.
However, there are still some limitations as you can’t search for fediverse profiles yet and there is no feature to reply to fediverse posts from Threads. However, according to Meta, these features will be coming soon.
FAQs
Q1. What new feature is Threads testing to improve privacy?
Answer. Threads is testing a new option to hide the “Replies” tab on your profile, making replies less visible while keeping the “Posts” and “Reposts” tabs visible.
Q2. How is Threads improving its integration with the fediverse?
Answer. Threads is allowing users to follow accounts from other fediverse platforms and see their posts in their timeline, with more features like replying to fediverse posts coming soon.
Q3. How can users check if they have access to the new feature to hide replies?
Answer. Users can go to their Threads profile, tap “Edit Profile,” and scroll down to find the “Show your Replies” toggle. By default, it’s enabled, but you can turn it off to hide your replies.
Spotify Wrapped 2024 offers a recap of your most-played songs, artists and podcasts.
It introduces new AI-powered features like Musical Phases and Longest Listening Streak.
Adds AI Personalisation features such as AI DJ, AI Playlist creation and a Wrapped AI podcast powered by Google’s NotebookLM.
Taylor Swift dominated as the most-streamed artist globally.
Sabrina Carpenter’s “Espresso” was the most-played song.
The Spotify Wrapped 2024 feature is now out for all users. (Image credit – Spotify)
It is that time of the year when your year-long taste in music and podcasts will be flashed back to you. Yes, Spotify Wrapped is back!
Like a tradition, Spotify Wrapped this year also is offering a fun recap of your most-played songs, artists and podcasts from 2024. This year some new features have been introduced including AI-powered features for a more personalised experience.
Here’s everything you need to know about Spotify Wrapped 2024 and how to access it.
Spotify Wrapped 2024
The Spotify Wrapped 2024 feature has added some cool new features. (Image credit – Spotify)
For those who are new to it, Spotify Wrapped is an annual recap of your favourite songs, artists, albums, podcasts and more. This year, Wrapped introduces several new features including the following –
Musical Phases: See up to three phases that define your year, based on your top genres and artists. Spotify even creates a playlist combining your favourite tracks with new suggestions inspired by these phases.
Longest Listening Streak: Discover which artist you binged the most.
Top Listeners Stats: Find out the percentage of listeners you’re in for your favourite artist.
Most-Watched Music Videos: In some regions, Wrapped will generate a playlist of the music videos you enjoyed most.
Artist Messages: Special shoutouts from artists like ROSÉ, Billie Eilish and Sabrina Carpenter.
Spotify Wrapped 2024 – AI Features Powered by Google’s NotebookLM
Spotify Wrapped 2024 – AI Features Powered by Google’s NotebookLM
Spotify Wrapped 2024 introduces some new personalisation features further using AI partnering with Google. In the press note, Spotify revealed, “This year, we’re taking your personalized Wrapped experience to the next level and bringing fans closer to the artists they love by enhancing two of our popular AI features, AI DJ and AI Playlist, and adding a new one: Your Spotify Wrapped AI podcast.”
Here’s what’s new that makes your experience on Spotify Wrapped more personalised.
Wrapped AI Podcast
The Spotify Wrapped 2024 has a new personalised AI Podcast feature for premium users. (Image credit – Spotify)
Spotify creates a unique podcast about your 2024 Wrapped data, hosted by AI voices from Google’s NotebookLM.
The podcast explores your music tastes, favourite tracks, and how your preferences evolved throughout the year.
Your Spotify Wrapped AI podcast will be available in English for eligible Free and Premium users for a limited time across the U.S., U.K., Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Ireland and Sweden.
Wrapped – AI DJ
The Spotify Wrapped 2024 has a new personalised AI DJ feature in select regions. (Image credit – Spotify)
In select regions, an AI DJ provides commentary on your Wrapped data complete with a soundtrack of your favourite songs. A fan-favourite feature for premium subscribers, It is also available in Spanish this year.
Wrapped AI Playlist Creation
The Spotify Wrapped 2024 has a new personalised AI Playlists feature for premium users. (Image credit – Spotify)
Use the AI chatbot to craft playlists inspired by your Wrapped like “artists similar to my top 5” or “artists similar to my top 5.” It is available for premium users in select markets.
How to Access Spotify Wrapped?
To check out your Wrapped, open the Spotify app on Android or iOS and go to the “Wrapped” feed in the Home tab. There, you’ll find options like Your Wrapped, Top Songs, and the new AI Podcast.
You can also visit spotify.com/wrappedAIpodcast.
The AI Podcast is available for a limited time and can be shared or downloaded directly to your device. Note that it’s available only in English for Free and Premium users in the US, UK, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Ireland, and Sweden.
Spotify Reveals 2024’s Top Artists and Songs
Spotify has also revealed the most-streamed artists and songs globally. Taylor Swift tops the list of the most-streamed artist and Sabrina Carpenter’s Espresso was on top of the year’s most-played song list.
Here are the top performers –
Most-Streamed Artists Globally:
Taylor Swift
The Weeknd
Bad Bunny
Drake
Billie Eilish
Travis Scott
Peso Pluma
Kanye West
Ariana Grande
Feid
Most-Streamed Songs Globally:
“Espresso” by Sabrina Carpenter
“Beautiful Things” by Benson Boone
“BIRDS OF A FEATHER” by Billie Eilish
“Gata Only” by FloyyMenor, Cris Mj
“Lose Control” by Teddy Swims
“End of Beginning” by Djo
“Too Sweet” by Hozier
“One Of The Girls (with JENNIE, Lily Rose Depp)” by The Weeknd
“Cruel Summer” by Taylor Swift
“Die With A Smile” by Bruno Mars, Lady Gaga
Most-Streamed Albums Globally:
THE TORTURED POETS DEPARTMENT: THE ANTHOLOGY by Taylor Swift
HIT ME HARD AND SOFT by Billie Eilish
Short n’ Sweet by Sabrina Carpenter
MAÑANA SERÁ BONITO by KAROL G
eternal sunshine by Ariana Grande
1989 (Taylor’s Version) by Taylor Swift
SOS by SZA
Lover by Taylor Swift
Fireworks & Rollerblades by Benson Boone
Starboy by The Weeknd
Spotify Wrapped-Like Features On Other Platforms
Spotify is not alone when it comes to giving a flashback of the year in music. Many other platforms and websites offer features similar to the Spotify Wrapped concept.
Amazon Music – Amazon Music this year has “2024 Delivered” offering a recap of users’ listening stats, such as top artists, songs and even podcasts.
YouTube Music – The YouTube Music’s Recap feature offers a similar roundup of the top five artists, songs, moods, genres, albums and playlists.
Apple Music – Apple Music has “Replay” that offers a summary of top songs, artists, albums, genres, playlists, and stations. It also shows play counts, total time spent listening and other insights.
Deezer – This app has a feature named “My Deezer Year” that offers a summary of your top songs, genres, most-listened-to albums and favourite artists based on your year-long streaming data.
SoundCloud – It has recently launched its SoundCloud 2024 recap.
FAQs
Q1. What is Spotify Wrapped?
Answer. Spotify Wrapped is an annual recap of your favourite songs, artists, albums, podcasts and more, offering a fun recap of your most-played content from the year.
Q2. What new AI features are included in Spotify Wrapped 2024?
Answer. Wrapped 2024 introduces AI-powered features like AI DJ, AI Playlist creation, and a unique Wrapped AI podcast hosted by AI voices from Google’s NotebookLM.
Q3. Who was the most-streamed artist on Spotify in 2024?
Answer. Taylor Swift was the most-streamed artist globally on Spotify in 2024.
Q4. How can users access their Spotify Wrapped 2024?
Answer. To check out your Wrapped, open the Spotify app on Android or iOS and go to the “Wrapped” feed in the Home tab. You can also visit spotify.com/wrappedAIpodcast.
Kuo reports that iPad Pro with the M5 chip is expected in fall 2025.
It is likely to enter mass production in the second half of 2025.
No additional features for the M5 model have been revealed yet.
Apple iPad Pro featuring the M5 chip is all set to arrive next year. (Image credit – Apple)
Apple’s iPad Pro got a big upgrade this year with the M4 chip, OLED display, nano-texture option, Apple Intelligence support and more. At 5.1mm, it is also claimed to be the thinnest Apple product ever packing a host of powerful features.
Now the latest reports suggest we might get another big upgrade as soon as next year as Apple is working to keep things interesting.
Here’s what we are hearing.
Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has provided some early details about the next iPad Pro. In a Medium post focused on updates for Apple’s suppliers, Kuo wrote, “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.”
Kuo’s latest Medium post was about BYD Electronic, the company Apple uses to assemble iPads and soon HomePods.
The M5 chip isn’t a surprise since the current iPad Pro models already feature the M4. However, it is always good to have confirmation.
The projected timeline aligns with Apple’s typical iPad Pro update cycle, which is usually every 18 months.
The latest iPad Pro model was launched in May 2024, which means a fall 2025 release for the M5 models fits perfectly with this pattern.
As of now, no additional features for the M5 iPad Pro have been revealed. Since this year’s M4 update brought major upgrades, the 2025 models may see fewer changes.
Kuo suggests that mass production of the M5 iPad Pro in the second half of 2025 could coincide with the launch of the first M5 Macs.
If Apple sticks to its usual schedule, we might see new iPhones, Apple Watches and AirPodsin September 2025, followed by the M5 iPad Pro and Macs in October or November.
With all the latest reports about Apple’s next-in-line products, it looks like Apple’s fall lineup is already starting to take shape.
FAQs
Q1. When is the iPad Pro with the M5 chip expected to enter mass production?
Answer. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo reports that the iPad Pro with the M5 processor is expected to enter mass production in the second half of 2025.
Q2. What major upgrades did the iPad Pro receive this year?
Answer. The iPad Pro received a significant upgrade this year with the M4 chip, OLED display, nano-texture option and more.
Q3. What is the projected timeline for the release of the M5 iPad Pro?
Answer. The projected timeline aligns with Apple’s typical iPad Pro update cycle, suggesting a fall 2025 release for the M5 models, which could coincide with the launch of the first M5 Macs.
