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WhatsApp Status Gets Music, Collage and Sticker Upgrades for More Creative Sharing

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 Highlights

  • WhatsApp adds new features for users to create photo collages, music stickers and custom photo stickers for Status posts.
  • It will also allow users to add songs directly to their Status with 15-second clips for photos and 60-second clips for videos.
  • The new “Add Yours” sticker allows users to start a trend or conversation, encouraging friends to respond with their own updates.

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Caption – New WhatsApp features for Status updates revealed. (Image credit – WhatsApp)

WhatsApp is rolling out four new features for its Status section, giving you more fun and creative ways to share updates with friends and family. Just like Instagram or Facebook Stories, WhatsApp Status lets you post photos, videos, or text that disappear after 24 hours but now, with added flair.

Announcing the new features on its Newsroom page, WhatsApp said, “Status is your place to let the people in your life know what’s going on, no matter where they may be.” These updates are private and end-to-end encrypted, so only your saved contacts can view them.

Here’s what’s new.

Layouts for Collages

Now you can turn up to six photos into a collage, arranging them however you like using WhatsApp’s built-in editing tools. It’s a simple way to share a collection of memories in one post.

More Ways to Share Music

You can now add a song as your status or turn it into a music sticker that can be placed on top of a photo or video. This adds a musical vibe to your updates, whether it’s a selfie, a scenic shot, or a special moment.

Since March, WhatsApp has allowed users to select songs from its built-in music library. You can post 15-second clips with photos or 60-second clips with videos.

Photo Stickers

Want to make your status posts more personal? You can turn any photo into a sticker, resize and reshape it as needed, and add it to your story. It’s a fun way to make your images pop.

Add Yours Stickers

This interactive feature lets you invite friends to join a trend or conversation. Pick a photo, add the “Add Yours” sticker, and your friends can respond by posting their own version to their Status. It’s a cool way to get people talking and sharing.

According to WhatsApp, these new features will start rolling out soon and will be available to all WhatsApp users in the coming months.

FAQs

Q1. What new features are coming to WhatsApp Status?

Answer. WhatsApp is adding photo collages, music stickers, custom photo stickers, and the “Add Yours” sticker for more interactive and creative updates.

Q2. How does the new music feature work in WhatsApp Status?

Answer. Users can now add songs directly to their Status, with 15-second clips for photos and 60-second clips for videos, making updates more engaging.

Q3. What is the “Add Yours” sticker in WhatsApp Status?

Answer. The “Add Yours” sticker lets users start a trend or conversation, allowing friends to respond by posting their own version to their Status.

Also Read: WhatsApp is testing a much-needed logout option on phones: Report

Also Read: WhatsApp launches official app for iPad with full feature support, available on App Store now

Vivo Pad5 Tablet and Vivo TWS Air3 Earbuds Launched

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Highlights

  • Vivo Pad5 launched with 12.1-inch 2.8K LCD screen with 144Hz refresh rate, MediaTek Dimensity 9300+ chipset, 10,000mAh battery and accessory support.
  • Vivo TWS Air3 comes with 12mm dynamic drivers, DeepX 3.0 stereo sound, AI noise reduction and up to 45 hours of playback.
  • The Pad5 starts at 2499 yuan with sales from June 6.
  • The Air3 earbuds are priced at 99 yuan and are launching on May 29, 2025.

Along with the launch of the Vivo S30 series, Vivo also introduced its newest tablet the Vivo Pad5 and the Vivo TWS Air3 earbuds. While the Pad5 is aimed at users looking for powerful performance and a big display, the Air3 earbuds are designed for everyday listening with great sound and battery life at a budget-friendly price. Here’s more about both devices.

Vivo Pad5 – Key Features, Pricing and Availability

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Caption – Vivo Pad5 launched officially at the starting price of 2499 yuan for the 8GB RAM + 128GB storage variant. (Image Credit – Vivo)

The vivo Pad5 features a sleek all-metal body that’s just 6.62mm thick and weighs 590g. It comes with a large 12.1-inch LCD display that supports a crisp 2.8K resolution and a smooth 144Hz refresh rate. The screen reaches up to 900 nits of peak brightness, making it great for both work and entertainment.

Powering the tablet is the MediaTek Dimensity 9300+ chipset built on a 4nm process, paired with the Immortalis-G720 GPU. It also includes vivo’s 3D heat dissipation system with a large 34,200mm² cooling area. You get up to 16GB RAM and 512GB storage, depending on the variant.

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Caption – Vivo Pad5 kry features. (Image Credit – Vivo)

Other features include –

  • 8MP rear camera and 5MP front camera for video calls
  • Six speakers for immersive audio
  • Android 15 with OriginOS 5 for tablets
  • Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, NFC, USB Type-C, and USB-C audio
  • A massive 10,000mAh battery with 44W fast charging

The tablet supports accessories like the Smart Touch Keyboard, Pencil2s stylus and a double-sided flip cover.

  • Available Colour – Blue, Grey and Pink
  • Sales begin in China on June 6

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Caption – Vivo Pad5 colour variants. (Image Credit – Vivo)

Vivo Pad5 Pricing –

  • 8GB + 128GB – 2499 yuan (approx USD 346 / ₹29,635)
  • 8GB + 256GB – 2799 yuan (approx USD 388 / ₹33,185)
  • 12GB + 256GB – 3099 yuan (approx USD 430 / ₹36,740)
  • 16GB + 512GB – 3499 yuan (approx USD 485 / ₹41,480)

Accessory Pricing –

  • Double-sided flip cover – 199 yuan (approx USD 27 / ₹2,360)
  • Smart Touch Keyboard – 599 yuan (approx USD 83 / ₹7,100)
  • Pencil – 499 yuan (approx USD 69 / ₹5,915)

Vivo TWS Air3 – Key Features, Pricing and Availability

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Caption – Vivo TWS Air3 launched officially, available for 99 yuan. (Image credit – Vivo)

The vivo TWS Air3 are semi-in-ear earbuds that weigh just 3.6g each, making them easy to wear for long hours. They come with 12mm dynamic drivers and a 4-layer voice coil, tuned by vivo’s Golden Ears acoustic team for rich bass and clear treble.

They support spatial audio and DeepX 3.0 stereo sound, with sound modes for audiobooks, bass, vocals, and treble. For calls, you get AI noise reduction and an L-shaped anti-wind mic design, which improves noise filtering by 51%.

Other key features:

  • Up to 10 hours of playback on a single charge, and 45 hours total with the charging case
  • Fast charging – 10 minutes gives 3 hours of use
  • Bluetooth 6.0 with dual-device connectivity
  • Ultra-low latency: 44ms for gaming, 33ms for karaoke
  • BlueOS integration for smartwatch features like calls, voice prompts, and WeChat messages
  • Fun extras like Cute Pet pop-ups, remote camera control, Find Earphones, voice control, and custom touch gestures
  • IP54 rating for dust and water resistance

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Caption – Vivo TWS Air3 key features. (Image credit – Vivo)

Quick Specs-

  • Audio – Supports AAC, SBC, LC3
  • Battery – 10h (buds), 45h (with case)
  • Size – Earbuds – 30.01 × 19.04 × 17.95mm; Case –8 × 48.3 × 24.4mm
  • App – vivo Earphones app for controls and updates

Price and Availability –

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Caption – Vivo TWS Air3 colour variants. (Image credit – Vivo)

  • Available Colours – Cloud White, Cherry Pink, Deep Sea Blue
  • Price – 99 yuan (approx USD 14 / ₹1,175)
  • Sales start May 29, 2025 via official vivo channels.

FAQs

Q1. What are the key features of the Vivo Pad5 tablet?

Answer. The Vivo Pad5 features a 12.1-inch 2.8K LCD display with a 144Hz refresh rate and 900 nits of peak brightness. It is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 9300+ chipset, comes with up to 16GB RAM and 512GB storage, and includes a 10,000mAh battery with 44W fast charging.

Q2. What makes the Vivo TWS Air3 earbuds stand out?

Answer. The Vivo TWS Air3 earbuds have 12mm dynamic drivers, DeepX 3.0 stereo sound, AI noise reduction, and an L-shaped anti-wind mic design for better call clarity. They offer up to 10 hours of playback on a single charge and 45 hours total with the case.

Q3. When will the Vivo Pad5 and TWS Air3 be available for purchase?

Answer. The Vivo Pad5 will be available in China from June 6, while the Vivo TWS Air3 earbuds will launch on May 29, 2025.

Motorola Launches Moto G56, G86 and G86 Power with Big Batteries and Sleek Design

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Highlights

  • Moto G56, G86 and G86 Power launched in sleek yet similar designs but differ in performance and battery capacity.
  • The G86 series has a 6.67-inch OLED screen with FHD+ resolution, while the G56 features a 6.72-inch LCD panel.
  • All models run MediaTek chipsets with 8GB RAM and up to 512GB storage.
  • The G86 Power boasts a 6,720mAh battery, the largest in a Motorola phone, while the G56 and G86 offer 5,200mAh batteries.

Motorola has launched three new phones in its G-series lineup, which includes Moto G56, Moto G86 and Moto G86 Power. All three look quite similar on the outside, but there are a few key differences in their hardware, especially when it comes to performance and battery life. Here’s all we know.

Moto G86 and G86 Power – Key Features

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Caption – Moto G86 and G86 Power. (Image credit – Motorola)

The Moto G86 and G86 Power come with a 6.67-inch OLED screen that offers FHD+ resolution and a smooth 120Hz adaptive refresh rate. These displays can reach up to 4,500 nits of peak local brightness and are protected by Gorilla Glass 7i. There’s also a fingerprint scanner built into the screen.

Both phones run on the MediaTek Dimensity 7300 chipset, paired with 8GB of RAM and either 256GB or 512GB of storage. They share the same camera setup, a 50MP main sensor (LYT-600) and an 8MP ultra-wide lens that also doubles as a macro camera. On the front, there’s a 32MP selfie camera.

They come with Android 15 and support 30W fast charging. The regular Moto G86 packs a 5,200mAh battery, while the Moto G86 Power steps it up with a massive 6,720mAh battery, the biggest battery ever in a Motorola phone.

Both models are IP68 and IP69 certified for water and dust resistance and meet the MIL-STD 810H durability standard.

Moto G86 and G86 Power – Availability and Price

They’re available in four Pantone colour options – Spellbound, Cosmic Sky, Golden Cypress, and Chrysanthemum.

In terms of pricing, the Moto G86 is available for €299 in Germany and £280 in the UK. The Moto G86 Power costs €329 or £299.

Moto G56 – Key Features

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Caption – Moto G56. (Image credit – Motorola)

The Moto G56 is the more budget-friendly option in the lineup. It features a 6.72-inch LCD display with FHD+ resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate. It debuts MediaTek’s yet-to-be-announced Dimensity 7060 processor, which includes an eight-core CPU clocked up to 2.6GHz and an Imagination IMG BXM-8-256 GPU.

Just like the G86 models, the G56 also comes with 8GB RAM and 256GB storage. It carries the same 50MP main camera and 8MP ultra-wide/macro combo as its siblings. The phone is IP68/IP69 rated for dust and water resistance and includes a 5,200mAh battery with 30W charging support.

Moto G56 – Availability and Price

Moto G56 is available in Pantone Black Oyster, Dazzling Blue, Gray Mist, and Dill. Pricing is set at €250 in Germany and £199 in the UK.

Feature Moto G56 Moto G86 Moto G86 Power
Display 6.72″ LCD, FHD+, 120Hz 6.67″ OLED, FHD+, 120Hz 6.67″ OLED, FHD+, 120Hz
Chipset MediaTek Dimensity 7060 MediaTek Dimensity 7300 MediaTek Dimensity 7300
RAM 8GB 8GB 8GB
Storage 256GB 256GB / 512GB 256GB / 512GB
Rear Camera 50MP + 8MP (ultra-wide/macro) 50MP + 8MP (ultra-wide/macro) 50MP + 8MP (ultra-wide/macro)
Front Camera 32MP 32MP 32MP
Battery 5,200mAh, 30W 5,200mAh, 30W 6,720mAh, 30W
Operating System Android 15 Android 15 Android 15
IP Rating IP68/IP69 IP68/IP69 IP68/IP69
Price (Germany) €250 €299 €329
Price (UK) £199 £280 £299

FAQs

Q1. What are the key differences between the Moto G86 and G86 Power?

Answer. Both models feature a 6.67-inch OLED display with FHD+ resolution, MediaTek Dimensity 7300 chipset, and 8GB RAM. However, the Moto G86 Power has a larger 6,720mAh battery, while the regular Moto G86 comes with a 5,200mAh battery.

Q2. What display technology do the new Moto G56, G86 and G86 Power use?

Answer. The Moto G86 and G86 Power have 6.67-inch OLED screens with 120Hz adaptive refresh rate and Gorilla Glass 7i protection. The Moto G56 features a 6.72-inch LCD display with the same FHD+ resolution and refresh rate.

Q3. What are the camera specifications of the Moto G56, G86 and G86 Power?

Answer. All three phones come with a 50MP main camera (LYT-600) and an 8MP ultra-wide lens that also functions as a macro camera. The front-facing camera is 32MP on the G86 models and G56.

Q4. What is the battery capacity and charging speed of Moto G56, G86 and G86 Power?

Answer. The Moto G86 Power has a 6,720mAh battery, the largest in a Motorola phone. The Moto G86 and G56 pack 5,200mAh batteries, all supporting 30W fast charging.

Q5. What are the price and colour options for Moto G56, G86 and G86 Power?

Answer. The Moto G86 costs €299 in Germany and £280 in the UK, while the G86 Power is priced at €329 or £299. The Moto G56 is €250 in Germany and £199 in the UK. They are available in Pantone-certified colours, including Spellbound, Cosmic Sky, Golden Cypress, Chrysanthemum, Black Oyster, Dazzling Blue, Grey Mist, and Dill.

Also Read: Motorola Razr 60 Launched in India with Dimensity 7400X, 3.6-inch Cover Display at Rs 49,999

Also Read: Motorola Razr 60 Ultra Launched in India with Snapdragon 8 Elite, Big 4-inch Cover Screen and Moto AI

Vivo S30 and S30 Pro Mini Launched in China With Stylish Design, Periscope Zoom and 6500mAh Battery

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Highlights

  • The Vivo S30 launched with a Snapdragon 7 Gen 4 chipset, while the Pro Mini is powered by the Dimensity 9300+.
  • Both phones boast 1.5K AMOLED screens with high refresh rates, triple rear cameras, a 50MP autofocus front camera and a 6500mAh battery with 90W fast charging.
  • Pre-orders are now live in China and official sales start on June 6

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Caption – Vivo S30 and S30 Pro Mini have been officially launched in China. (Image credit – Vivo)

Vivo has launched its new S30 series featuring two smartphones, the Vivo S30 and the S30 Pro Mini, in China. The series focuses on eye-catching designs with capable hardware. Among everything else, they introduce new cinematic zoom features and improved triple-proof durability. Here’s everything we know about both models.

Vivo S30 and S30 Pro Mini – Pricing and Availability

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Caption – Vivo S30 colour variants. (Image credit – Vivo)

Vivo S30 –

  • 12GB + 256GB – 2699 yuan (approx $370 or ₹32,000)
  • 12GB + 512GB – 2999 yuan (approx $410 or ₹35,000)
  • 16GB + 512GB – 3299 yuan (approx $450 or ₹38,000)
  • Launched in Cocoa Black, Lemon Yellow, Mint Green and Peach Pink shades.

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Caption – Vivo S30 Pro Mini. (Image credit – Vivo)

Vivo S30 Pro Mini –

  • 12GB + 256GB – 3499 yuan (approx $480 or ₹41,000)
  • 12GB + 512GB – 3799 yuan (approx $520 or ₹45,000)
  • 16GB + 512GB – 3999 yuan (approx $545 or ₹47,000)
  • Available in Cool Berry Powder, Cocoa Black, Mint Green and Lemon Yellow colourways.

Pre-orders are now live in China and official sales start on June 6. Buyers can also enjoy pre-sale benefits like trade-in offers, extended warranties and exclusive accessories.

Vivo is also offering a limited-edition Sanrio gift box for the S30 series. It includes themed goodies like Sanrio merchandise, a photo frame voucher, a perforated case, a phone pouch, a lanyard, and a phone stand.

Vivo S30 and S30 Pro Mini – Key Specs

The Vivo S30 comes with a 6.67-inch 1.5K AMOLED display that supports a 120Hz refresh rate, HDR10+, and 3840Hz PWM dimming. It can hit up to 5000 nits of peak brightness and uses BOE’s Q10 panel tech for rich visuals.

The S30 Pro Mini has a smaller 6.31-inch 1.5K LTPO AMOLED screen with the same refresh rate and brightness but upgrades to 4320Hz PWM dimming, which is easier on the eyes.

The S30 is powered by the Snapdragon 7 Gen 4 chipset built on a 4nm process and comes with an Adreno 722 GPU. It’s great for daily use and gaming. The S30 Pro Mini, meanwhile, uses the more powerful Dimensity 9300+ chip with clock speeds up to 3.4GHz and the Immortalis-G720 GPU. Vivo says it can keep games like Honor of Kings running at 119.8fps in high-quality mode.

Both phones run Android 15 with Vivo’s OriginOS 5 on top. You get handy features like “One Tap Transfer,” syncing with Mac devices, AirPods tracking and a “Flash Sale Engine” to speed up ticket and event bookings.

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Caption – Vivo S30 and S30 Pro Mini marketing posters in China. (Image credit – Vivo)

Vivo S30 and S30 Pro Mini – Camera Features

The S30 and S30 Pro Mini both have triple cameras at the back, with a 50MP Sony main sensor, LYT700V on the S30 and IMX921 on the Pro Mini. They also come with a 50MP IMX882 periscope telephoto lens that offers 3x optical zoom at f/2.65 and an 8MP ultra-wide camera.

For selfies, there’s a 50MP autofocus front camera with soft lighting and lens distortion correction.

The Pro Mini also includes a special “Clear Portrait Texture” algorithm that makes faces look more detailed and natural.

Both phones come with Vivo’s new cinematic tools like “Classic Negative” and “Hitchcock Zoom Live,” which creates a 3-second video with moving backgrounds while keeping the subject centred.

Vivo S30 and S30 Pro Mini – Battery, Build and Other Features

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Caption – Vivo S30. (Image credit – Vivo)

Each model packs a huge 6500mAh battery and supports 90W fast charging. The S30 has a plastic frame, while the S30 Pro Mini features a more premium build with an aerospace-grade aluminium frame, Gorilla Glass protection and IP68/IP69 ratings for water and dust resistance.

The S30 Pro Mini also becomes the world’s first phone to earn SGS triple-proof certification. On the connectivity front, the S30 supports Wi-Fi 6 while the Pro Mini offers Wi-Fi 7. Both models include Bluetooth 5.4, NFC, an infrared remote control, and dual stereo speakers with Hi-Res audio.

FAQs

Q1. What are the key features of the Vivo S30 and S30 Pro Mini?

Answer. The Vivo S30 series offers stylish designs, cinematic zoom features, and enhanced durability. The S30 is powered by Snapdragon 7 Gen 4, while the Pro Mini has the Dimensity 9300+ for better gaming performance. Both models feature 1.5K AMOLED displays, triple rear cameras with periscope zoom, and 6500mAh batteries with 90W fast charging.

Q2. What display technology do the Vivo S30 and S30 Pro Mini use?

Answer. The Vivo S30 features a 6.67-inch 1.5K AMOLED screen with 120Hz refresh rate, HDR10+ support, and 3840Hz PWM dimming. The S30 Pro Mini has a smaller 6.31-inch LTPO AMOLED display with 4320Hz PWM dimming, making it easier on the eyes.

Q3. What are the camera specifications of the Vivo S30 series?

Answer. Both models come with triple rear cameras, including a 50MP Sony main sensor (LYT700V for S30, IMX921 for Pro Mini), 50MP IMX882 periscope telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom, and an 8MP ultra-wide camera. For selfies, there’s a 50MP autofocus front camera with soft lighting and lens distortion correction.

Q4. What is the battery capacity and charge speed of Vivo S30 phones?

Answer. Each model packs a 6500mAh battery and supports 90W fast charging, ensuring extended usage and rapid recharging.

Q5. When will the Vivo S30 series be available for purchase?

Answer. The Vivo S30 series is currently available for pre-orders in China, with official sales starting on June 6. Buyers can also access pre-sale benefits, including trade-in offers, extended warranties, and exclusive accessories.

Also Read: Vivo S30 Pro Mini Official Unboxing Video Reveals Design and Contents Before Launch

Also Read: Vivo S30 Pro Mini Leak Reveals Dimensity 9400e Chip, Sony Periscope Camera, and More

OnePlus 13s India Price Tipped Ahead of Launch, Expected Around ₹55,000: Report

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Highlights

  • OnePlus 13s will reportedly be priced around ₹55,000 in India.
  • The phone launch is on June 5th and it will be available in Black Velvet, Pink Satin and an India-exclusive Green Silk colour.
  • Expected features – 6.32-inch display, a square-shaped camera module, a new customisable Plus Key, Snapdragon 8 Elite processor and a 32MP autofocus front camera.

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Caption – OnePlus 13s is officially launching on June 5. (Image credit – OnePlus)

The OnePlus 13s is all set to launch on June 5th and now we may have a good idea of what it could cost in India. Between official teasers and leaks, a new exclusive report from 91mobiles has now revealed the India price based on a reliable tipster’s words. Here’s what we know.

OnePlus 13s India Pricing Details Leaked

The exclusive 91Mobiles report reveals that the upcoming OnePlus 13s will be priced around ₹55,000 in India. While the exact RAM and storage options haven’t been revealed yet, this gives us a rough idea of where it will sit in the OnePlus lineup.

According to the folks at 91Mobiles, this price leak comes from the reliable and well-known tipster Yogesh Brar, who later posted the price on X (formerly Twitter) as well.

For reference, the OnePlus 13R launched at ₹42,999, while the OnePlus 13 came in at ₹69,999. So the 13s looks like it will land right between those two.

OnePlus 13s – What To Expect?

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Caption – OnePlus 13s featuring the Plus Key. (Image credit – OnePlus)

OnePlus has already confirmed a few things about the upcoming phone. The OnePlus 13s will have a 6.32-inch display and a square-shaped camera module on the back. It also features a new “Plus Key”, which replaces the classic Alert Slider. This new button can be customised to perform different tasks like opening the camera, starting screen recordings, translating content or launching AI Plus Mind.

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Caption – OnePlus AI official teaser. (Image credit – OnePlus)

The AI Plus Mind is a new feature where users can save content from their screens. The phone’s AI will then automatically sort and organise everything based on what it is.

Under the hood, the OnePlus 13s will be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, and it will also come with a dedicated heat dissipation system and an independent Wi-Fi chipset. For selfies, it’ll sport a 32MP autofocus front camera, which is an upgrade from the 16MP sensor on the OnePlus 13T in China.

The phone will be available in three colour options, which include Black Velvet, Pink Satin and a special India-exclusive Green Silk.

FAQS

Q1. What is the expected price of the OnePlus 13s in India?

Answer. The OnePlus 13s is expected to be priced around ₹55,000, placing it between the OnePlus 13R and OnePlus 13 in OnePlus’ lineup.

Q2. What are some key features of the OnePlus 13s?

Answer. It features a 6.32-inch display, a square-shaped camera module, a customizable “Plus Key,” Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, and a 32MP autofocus front camera.

Q3. What colours will the OnePlus 13s be available in?

Answer. The phone will launch in three colour options, Black Velvet, Pink Satin and an India-exclusive Green Silk.

Instagram Draining Your Android Battery? Google Says Update the App Now

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Highlights

  • Google confirmed Instagram caused battery drain on Android devices.
  • The issue was widely reported by users, especially on Reddit.
  • The new Instagram update version 382.0.0.49.84 is now available on the Play Store and should resolve the issue of excessive battery consumption.

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Caption – Did you notice that Instagram was draining your Android device battery? (Photo by Brett Jordan on Unsplash)

Instagram might be the reason why your Android phone’s battery has been draining faster than usual lately. Google has officially confirmed that the Instagram app was causing battery issues on Android devices. This is something many users have been complaining about, especially on Reddit.

Google has now released an advisory titled “Battery drain on Android devices” to fix the issue and asked users to update Instagram right away.

“Starting today, Instagram is rolling out an updated app that should fix a battery drain issue on Android devices. Please make sure you have the latest version of the Instagram app (build 382.0.0.49.84) to resolve this issue,” the company said.

And it seems like the update works. After installing the latest version, users are now saying the battery drain problem is finally resolved.

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Caption – One of the many Reddit posts about the battery draining issue.

Earlier, many Android users noticed that Instagram was using way more battery than usual. One Reddit user with a Samsung Galaxy A53 shared that Instagram consumed 12.4% of their battery with just 54 minutes of screen time, while WhatsApp used only 2.4% during a similar 49-minute session.

Some people even tried switching to older Instagram versions, but that only caused their phones to heat up. Others moved to Instagram Lite and saw a clear improvement, which further pointed to a problem with the main app.

Instagram hasn’t shared more details about the issue yet like whether it affected certain phones (Pixel, Samsung, etc.) or specific Android versions. But what we do know is that version 382.0.0.49.84, which is now live on the Google Play Store includes the fix. So if you haven’t updated yet, now’s the time.

FAQs

Q1. What caused Instagram’s battery drain issue on Android?

Answer. Instagram was consuming excessive battery power on Android devices, a problem widely reported by users, especially on Reddit.

Q2. How can users fix the battery drain problem?

Answer. Google advises updating Instagram to version 382.0.0.49.84, which includes a fix for the issue and is now available on the Google Play Store.

Q3. Did switching to older Instagram versions help?

Answer. No, users who tried older versions experienced overheating, while those using Instagram Lite saw improvements, reinforcing the problem in the main app.

Also Read:

Realme Teases Upcoming Phone With Giant 7,500mAh Battery, Will Be Bigger Than GT 7 Series

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Highlights

  • Realme teases a smartphone with a 7,500mAh battery.
  • The brand aims to differentiate itself from competitors like Oppo and Vivo by focusing on elite battery technology rather than just affordability.

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Caption – Realme GT 7 Series. (Image credit – Realme)

Realme is stepping up its battery game in a big way. After launching the Realme GT 7 and GT 7T with large battery packs, the company is now preparing to release a smartphone with an even bigger 7,500mAh battery. Here’s what we know.

Realme’s Upcoming Smartphone With a Big Battery

In a chat with AndroidHeadlines, Realme shared its future plans and confirmed that a new phone with a massive 7,500mAh battery is coming later this year. That’s larger than the already impressive batteries in the GT 7 series, which means Realme is clearly focusing on longer battery life, not just faster processors.

Just to recall, both smartphones in the GT 7 Series pack massive 7,000 mAh batteries with 120W charging support.

What’s interesting is this move isn’t just about one phone. Realme says it’s trying to carve out a new identity, one focused on elite battery performance, not just affordable pricing. While brands like Oppo and Vivo are pushing hard on camera and photography features, Realme seems to be making battery endurance its top priority.

There’s also a good chance that this 7,500mAh battery will show up in one of Realme’s flagship models. For reference, the Realme GT 7 Pro launched with a 6,500mAh battery. So, its likely successor, possibly named GT 8 Pro, could be the one to carry this huge battery.

Interestingly, while Realme is going big, others are going slim. Samsung just announced the ultra-thin Galaxy S25 Edge with a small 3,900mAh battery. And Apple is rumoured to be working on a similar ultra-slim model, the iPhone 17 Air.

With this upcoming launch, Realme is clearly positioning itself as the go-to brand for users who care most about battery life.

Realme recently revealed a prototype smartphone with a 10,000 mAh battery in an 8.5mm thick frame. It weighed just 215 g as the battery is reportedly a 10% silicon anode. The tech was achieved with an energy density of 887 Wh/L. Realme used a 23.4mm tall motherboard, which is the smallest in the Android world, in order to maximise the internal volume.

FAQs

Q1. What is Realme’s upcoming smartphone expected to feature?

Answer. Realme is launching a new phone with a massive 7,500mAh battery, surpassing the GT 7 series in battery capacity and emphasising longer battery life.

Q2. Why is Realme focusing on battery endurance?

Answer. Realme aims to differentiate itself by prioritising battery performance over affordability, contrasting with brands like Oppo and Vivo that focus on camera technology.

Q3. Which Realme model might include the 7,500mAh battery?

Answer. There is speculation that the flagship GT 8 Pro could be the device featuring this huge battery, given that the GT 7 Pro previously launched with a 6,500mAh battery.

Also Read: Realme GT 7T’s striking Yellow variant revealed on Amazon ahead of May 27 launch

Apple Might Rename iOS 19 to iOS 26 Next Year as Part of Major Overhaul: Gurman

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Highlights

  • Apple plans to switch to year-based naming for all operating systems, which means iOS 19 will be renamed iOS 26.
  • New iOS features include AI-powered tools, iPad improvements, live translation for Siri and AirPods and a refreshed visionOS-style design.
  • Apple is expected to unveil these changes including the name shift and feature updates at its keynote event on June 9, 2025.

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Caption – Apple is changing the way all its operating systems are named. (Image credit – Apple)

Apple could be making a big shift in how it names its operating systems. According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, the company plans to switch from version numbers to year-based names starting in 2025. Here’s what we know.

iOS 19 To Be iOS 26

Instead of calling it iOS 19, Apple reportedly plans to name the next version iOS 26. The same change would apply to iPadOS, macOS, watchOS, tvOS, and visionOS. This new system will align all software with the upcoming calendar year, creating a more consistent naming strategy across all Apple platforms.

Gurman explained that this move is meant to fix the confusion caused by each OS having a different version number based on when it was first launched.

Apple isn’t the first to try this moniker change. Microsoft used year-based names like Windows 95 and Samsung names its Galaxy phones after their launch year.

Apple itself has done something similar with past apps like iWork ’08 and iLife ’11. But this time, the company plans to use the upcoming year. So, the software launched in late 2025 will carry the “26” label, much like how carmakers label next year’s models.

iOS 19 (aka iOS 26) – New Features

Alongside the name change, Apple is also expected to roll out several major software updates. These include –

  • iPad improvements that make it behave more like a Mac, making it easier to use for work.
  • AI integration via the Apple Intelligence platform, which will be opened up to third-party developers.
  • Live translation for Siri and AirPods.
  • Vision Pro is getting an eye-scrolling feature.
  • AI-powered health tools and better battery management.
  • A new bidirectional Arabic-English keyboard and a digital calligraphy pen for Apple Pencil.
  • A brand-new gaming app for Apple devices is also in the works.

Gurman noted that this overhaul will also include a major design refresh. Apple plans to bring a visionOS-style interface to iOS, iPadOS, macOS, watchOS, and tvOS for a more unified look and feel.

iOS 19 (aka iOS 26) – Expected Launch Timeline

All of these changes, new names, features and design, are expected to be announced at WWDC 2025, which kicks off on Monday, June 9. The keynote will begin at 10 AM PDT (10:30 PM IST).

FAQs

Q1. Why is Apple renaming iOS 19 to iOS 26?

Answer. Apple plans to switch to year-based naming for all its operating systems, aligning software updates with the upcoming calendar year for consistency across platforms.

Q2. What major features are expected in iOS 26?

Answer. New updates include AI-powered tools, improved iPad functionality, live translation for Siri and AirPods, Vision Pro eye-scrolling, and a redesigned visionOS-style interface.

Q3. When will Apple announce these changes?

Answer. Apple is expected to reveal the new naming system, design updates, and feature improvements at WWDC 2025, which begins on Monday, June 9.

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Are Dubai Residents Getting Free ChatGPT Plus Access? Here’s the Full Story

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Highlights

  • The UAE is the first country to offer its entire population free access to ChatGPT Plus, normally a $20/month subscription.
  • OpenAI is partnering with global tech firms to build Stargate UAE, a massive AI computing centre in Abu Dhabi with plans to expand up to 1 gigawatt.
  • The UAE deal includes a $20 billion investment plan and OpenAI is exploring similar partnerships in other Asia-Pacific countries.

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Caption – Find out if Dubai is really getting free ChatGPT Plus access? (Photo by Levart_Photographer on Unsplash)

If you live in Dubai or anywhere in the UAE, reports suggest you’re about to get free access to ChatGPT Plus. Yes, that’s the premium version of OpenAI’s AI chatbot. It’s real and there’s no catch for regular users.

This makes the UAE the first country in the world to give its entire population access to ChatGPT Plus for free. Normally, this subscription costs $20 a month (around Rs 1,700). The offer comes as part of a larger agreement between OpenAI and the UAE government, under a programme called OpenAI for Countries.

But this isn’t just about handing out free AI tools. The bigger aim is to help countries build their own local AI infrastructure, while staying aligned with US regulations and global partnerships.

So what’s really going on behind the scenes?

As part of the partnership, OpenAI is joining forces with global tech giants like Oracle, Nvidia, Cisco, SoftBank, and G42 to create a powerful AI computing centre in Abu Dhabi. It’s called Stargate UAE. The first phase offering about 200 megawatts of computing power is expected to go live next year. Eventually, the facility will scale up to 1 gigawatt, which is a big deal in the AI world.

OpenAI’s CEO Sam Altman says the project’s goal is to “spread the benefits of AI”, things like better healthcare, cleaner energy, and improved education, to more people globally.

There really isn’t a catch for users. If you’re in the UAE, you’ll soon get free access to ChatGPT Plus, complete with OpenAI’s most advanced tools and features. You can use it for writing, coding, learning, or just asking questions.

But while it’s free for the public, there’s serious investment going on behind the scenes.

A report by The New York Times says the partnership includes a huge financial agreement,  for every dollar the UAE spends on developing local AI, an equal amount will go toward strengthening AI infrastructure in the U.S. This could add up to $20 billion in total investment. The broader goal is to expand OpenAI’s reach and ensure AI technologies aligned with U.S. values and standards become the global norm.

And it might not stop with the UAE. OpenAI’s Chief Strategy Officer Jason Kwon is expected to visit other Asia Pacific countries to explore similar partnerships. If those talks go well, more countries could soon get access to ChatGPT and localised AI tools tailored to their languages, cultures, and laws.

FAQs

Q1. Who is getting free access to ChatGPT Plus?

Answer. UAE residents will receive free access to ChatGPT Plus, making the UAE the first country to provide the premium AI chatbot to its entire population at no cost.

Q2. What is Stargate UAE, and why is it important?

Answer. Stargate UAE is a new AI computing center in Abu Dhabi, created through OpenAI’s partnership with global tech firms. It will provide up to 1 gigawatt of computing power.

Q3. Is OpenAI planning similar partnerships in other countries?

Answer. Yes, OpenAI’s Chief Strategy Officer is exploring partnerships across Asia-Pacific, which could bring free ChatGPT access and localized AI tools to more regions.

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Apple Expands Self Service Repair Program to Select iPads

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Highlights

  • Apple now supports select iPad models in its repair program including iPad Air (M2+), iPad Pro (M4), iPad mini (A17 Pro) and iPad (A16).
  • Apple is allowing independent repair businesses to order genuine parts directly to make repairs more accessible worldwide.
  • The program now supports 65 Apple products in 33 countries, with Canada joining soon.

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Caption – Apple expands repair programs. (Image credit – Apple)

Apple has just announced that its Self Service Repair program will officially support some iPad models from now on.

Support for iPads will still be limited to certain models, but it’s a notable step forward. Apple has also rolled out a Genuine Parts Distributor program, letting any repair business order parts directly from Apple, no need to be an official service partner.

Announcing the expansion of the program to include iPad models in a press note, Apple said, “Beginning tomorrow, with support for iPad Air (M2 and later), iPad Pro (M4), iPad mini (A17 Pro), and iPad (A16), the launch features components including displays, batteries, cameras, and external charging ports. Today’s announcement joins the expansion of other Apple repair services that further enable customers and independent repair providers to complete out-of-warranty repairs, including new details about the Genuine Parts Distributor program.”

“At Apple, our goal is to create the world’s greatest products that last as long as possible,said Brian Naumann, Apple’s vice president of AppleCare.

“With today’s announcement, we’re excited to expand our repair services to more customers, enabling them to further extend the life of their products — all without compromising safety, security, or privacy,” Naumann further added.

The program originally launched for iPhones in 2021, marking a major shift for Apple after years of pushing back against the right to repair. It expanded to MacBooks in 2023 and now it’s the iPad’s turn.

Before all this, only Apple Authorized Service Providers and Independent Repair Providers had access to repair manuals and parts. That left everyday users and smaller repair shops without options. But after increasing pressure from the FTC and a growing wave of right-to-repair laws across various U.S. states, Apple shifted its stance.

The program first opened up for iPhone 12 and 13 users, and it’s been growing ever since.

With this latest update, Apple says the Self Service Repair program now supports 65 Apple products and is available in 33 countries. The company also confirmed that Canada will be added to the list sometime this summer.

Alongside the iPad rollout, Apple is continuing to promote its new Genuine Parts Distributor program, which aims to make repairs more accessible for businesses of all sizes.

About the Genuine Parts Distributor program, the company said, “This broadens access to businesses that do not have a direct service relationship with Apple, fulfilling a need in the repair marketplace while providing customers with more options.”

“Through Genuine Parts Distributor, independent mobile repair professionals can order genuine Apple service parts and components via third-party distributors, including MobileSentrix in the U.S., and MobileSentrix and Mobileparts.shop in Europe. Genuine Parts Distributor offers a wide range of Apple parts for iPhone repairs, including displays, batteries, and charging ports, with iPad parts coming tomorrow. Repair providers interested in learning more can visit the program page,” Apple added.

FAQs

Q1. Which iPad models are included in Apple’s Self Service Repair program?

Answer. The program now supports iPad Air (M2 and later), iPad Pro (M4), iPad mini (A17 Pro), and iPad (A16), with available components including displays, batteries, cameras, and charging ports.

Q2. What is the Genuine Parts Distributor program?

Answer. Apple’s Genuine Parts Distributor program allows independent repair businesses to order genuine Apple service parts directly, making repairs more accessible.

Q3. How many products does Apple’s Self Service Repair program currently support?

Answer. The program now includes 65 Apple products and is available in 33 countries, with Canada set to join in the summer.

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