Leaks suggest Nothing Phone 4a with Snapdragon 7s-series and Nothing Phone 4a Pro with a stronger Snapdragon 7-series SoC.
Phone 4a may cost $475 (₹43,000), while Phone 4a Pro could be $540 (₹49,000), with colour options like black, blue, pink, and white.
A new over-ear Nothing Headphone a in development with a plastic-built rebrand of Headphone 1.
Caption – Nothing Phone 4a and Phone 4a Pro Specs and Pricing Leaked. (Image credit – Nothing)
Nothing has just launched the latest Nothing Phone 3a Community Edition in India and global markets. The brand now appears to be shifting attention to its next affordable lineup. A new leak suggests that the upcoming Nothing Phone 4a and Nothing Phone 4a Pro are currently in development. Both models are expected to feature Snapdragon 7-series chipsets and launch in multiple colour options. The leak also hints at a new pair of over-ear headphones called Nothing Headphone a. Here’s more on that.
Nothing Phone 4a and Phone 4a Pro – Specs and Pricing (Leaked)
Caption – Developer MlgmXyysd on Telegram.
According to developer MlgmXyysd on Telegram, two models are being prepared for the Nothing Phone 4a series. The standard Phone 4a is said to be powered by a Snapdragon 7s-series chipset, while the Phone 4a Pro may upgrade to a more powerful Snapdragon 7-series SoC. This would mark a shift in Nothing’s strategy, as the current Phone 3a and Phone 3a Pro both use the Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 processor.
The leak also claims that the Phone 4a Pro will include eSIM support, keeping it in line with its predecessor. Colour options for the lineup could include black, blue, pink, and white, though it remains unclear if both variants will launch in all four colours.
Both the Phone 4a and 4a Pro are tipped to come in a 12GB RAM + 256GB storage configuration. The standard Phone 4a may carry a price tag of $475 (roughly Rs. 43,000), while the Phone 4a Pro could be priced at $540 (roughly Rs. 49,000). For comparison, the Phone 3a and Phone 3a Pro currently retail in the US at $379 (roughly Rs. 34,300) and $459 (roughly Rs. 41,500), respectively.
Nothing Headphone a Also in the Works
The tipster adds that Nothing is also developing Nothing Headphone a, expected to be the company’s second over-ear headphone offering after the Nothing Headphone 1 launched in July. The Headphone a is rumoured to launch in Black, Pink, White, and Yellow colourways.
The new model may essentially be a rebranded version of the Headphone 1, this time featuring a plastic build.
FAQs
Q1. What processors will power the Nothing Phone 4a and 4a Pro?
Answer. The standard Phone 4a is tipped to use a Snapdragon 7s-series chipset, while the Phone 4a Pro may feature a more powerful Snapdragon 7-series SoC.
Q2. What are the expected prices of the Nothing Phone 4a models?
Answer. The Phone 4a may launch at $475 (₹43,000), while the Phone 4a Pro could be priced at $540 (₹49,000).
Q3. What is Nothing Headphone a?
Answer. Nothing Headphone a is a new over-ear headset in development, rumoured to be a plastic-built rebrand of Headphone 1, launching in Black, Pink, White, and Yellow colourways.
OpenAI unveiled GPT-5.2, calling it its most capable model yet.
GPT-5.2 improves productivity workflows, handling spreadsheets, presentations, production-ready code, image interpretation, tool use and complex multi-step tasks.
It is rolling out across Plus, Pro, Business and Enterprise plans.
Caption – (Photo by Jonathan Kemper on Unsplash)
OpenAI has officially introduced GPT-5.2, describing it as the most powerful model series yet for professional and enterprise-grade tasks on ChatGPT. The launch comes at a strategically important moment, following reports that the company accelerated the rollout in response to Google’s latest Gemini advancements. According to insiders, Google’s progress triggered an internal “code red,” prompting OpenAI to fast-track the release earlier than initially planned.
OpenAI ChatGPT 5.2
Caption – OpenAI ChatGPT 5.2.
Announcing the new model via an X post, the company wrote, “GPT-5.2 Instant, Thinking, and Pro are rolling out today, starting with Plus, Pro, Business, and Enterprise plans. Free and Go users will get access tomorrow. GPT-5.2 is also now in the API and Codex.”
GPT-5.2 marks a more capability-driven upgrade compared to GPT-5.1, which debuted in mid-November with an emphasis on more natural, human-like interaction. This time, OpenAI is doubling down on performance. The new model reportedly delivers significant gains in economic productivity workflows including creating complex spreadsheets, building presentations, writing production-ready code, interpreting images, using tools more effectively and managing long, multi-step tasks from beginning to end.
OpenAI says GPT-5.2 sets new industry benchmarks, particularly on evaluation tests such as GDPval, where the model is claimed to surpass human professionals across 44 occupations. The improvements stem from enhancements in general intelligence, long-context understanding, agent-like task execution and advanced vision capabilities.
With these upgrades, OpenAI asserts that GPT-5.2 can handle real-world workloads with greater accuracy and reliability than any previous ChatGPT model.
ChatGPT 5.2 Development
The rapid pace of development is striking. GPT-5 arrived on August 7, introducing a new routing system that dynamically shifted between sub-models for faster or deeper responses. That was followed in November by GPT-5.1, which brought a more thoughtful and intelligent behaviour profile.
Now, just weeks later, GPT-5.2 is rolling out. This highlights both the speed of innovation in the AI industry and OpenAI’s determination to maintain its competitive edge.
For users, GPT-5.2 is expected to feel more precise, more powerful and more stable, especially when dealing with long documents, complex reasoning tasks and high-pressure professional workflows. And with Google pushing aggressively with its Gemini lineup, this rapid-fire upgrade cycle is almost certainly just beginning.
FAQs
Q1. What is GPT‑5.2 and why did OpenAI release it now?
Answer. GPT‑5.2 is OpenAI’s most capable model series yet, designed for professional and enterprise tasks. Reports suggest its rollout was accelerated after Google’s Gemini progress triggered an internal “code red.”
Q2. What improvements does GPT‑5.2 bring compared to GPT‑5.1?
Answer. Unlike GPT‑5.1’s focus on natural interaction, GPT‑5.2 emphasises performance, handling complex spreadsheets, presentations, production‑ready code, image interpretation, tool use, and long multi‑step tasks with greater accuracy.
Q3. How is GPT‑5.2 being made available to users?
Answer. GPT‑5.2 Instant, Thinking, and Pro are rolling out to Plus, Pro, Business, and Enterprise plans first with Free and Go users gaining access the following day. It is also available via API and Codex.
Huawei Mate X7 Foldable goes global, priced at €2,099, featuring 8” inner LTPO OLED, 50MP variable-aperture main camera and 5,600mAh battery with 66W wired/50W wireless charging.
Huawei FreeClip 2 earbuds launched with AI-powered adaptive sound, 10.8mm drivers, triple-mic noise reduction, IP57 rating, 38-hour playback, retailing at €200/£180 from Jan 21.
Huawei Watch Ultimate Design Royal Gold (€3,300/£3,000) offers gold accents, 11-day battery, ECG tracking and HarmonyOS 5.1.
MatePad 11.5 S (€480/£350) brings 144Hz display, stylus support, quad speakers and 8,800mAh battery; available Jan 15.
Huawei launches a new range of products in different categories at its recent “Unfold the Moment” launch event. (Image credit – Huawei)
Huawei has officially brought four of its latest flagship products to the global market at its recent “Unfold the Moment” launch event. The lineup includes the premium Huawei Mate X7 foldable smartphone, the new Huawei FreeClip 2 open-ear earbuds, the Huawei Watch Ultimate Design Royal Gold Edition, and the Huawei MatePad 11.5 S tablet. According to the company, the announcements highlight its commitment to user-focused innovation and design. Here’s everything you need to know about all the newly launched products.
Huawei Mate X7 Goes Global
Huawei Mate X7 Goes Global.
Just weeks after debuting in China, the Huawei Mate X7 is now launching internationally. The foldable draws inspiration from the “Time-Space Gate” concept and a 1,600-year-old light-woven brocade art form. It comes in White, Black, and Nebula Red, with a single 16GB RAM and 512GB storage configuration, priced at €2,099.
Huawei Mate X7 colours.
Huawei has slightly increased the size of both displays. The outer cover screen measures 6.49 inches with a 20.4:9 aspect ratio, while the inner foldable display expands to 8 inches with an 8:7.3 ratio. Both panels are LTPO OLEDs offering a 1–120Hz adaptive refresh rate and 1,440Hz PWM dimming. The cover screen is protected by Crystal Armour Kunlun glass, and the inner screen features a new three-layer composite build including a UTG layer for added strength.
Huawei Mate X7 displays.
Durability is a major focus, supported by Huawei’s Ultra-Reliable Foldable Architecture. This combines Crystal Armor Kunlun Glass, precision-engineered hinges, and a 3-layer ultra-tough structure.
The rear camera system includes a 50MP main sensor (RYYB) with a physical 10-stop variable aperture ranging from f/1.4 to f/4.0, along with OIS. The telephoto camera has been upgraded to a 50MP sensor with f/2.2 aperture and 3.5x optical zoom, while the ultrawide unit offers 40MP resolution. Two 8MP selfie cameras are present, one on the outer display and one on the inner panel.
Powering the device is a 5,600mAh Si-C battery with 66W wired and 50W wireless charging support.
Huawei FreeClip 2 – A Smarter Open-Ear Audio
Caption – Huawei FreeClip 2.
The FreeClip 2 open-ear earbuds, launched earlier in China, make their way to global markets as the successor to the 2023 FreeClip. They retain the signature C-shaped design that comfortably grips the ear.
Caption – Huawei FreeClip 2 features.
The new model features 10.8mm dual-diaphragm drivers, Huawei’s third-generation audio chip, and a dedicated NPU for enhanced AI processing. This allows adaptive sound adjustments and improved voice clarity. The earbuds also offer upgraded bass performance and triple-microphone call noise reduction.
FreeClip 2 comes with an IP57 rating and promises up to 38 hours of total playback with the charging case. The case supports USB-C wired charging and wireless charging. Available in Blue, White, and Black, the earbuds will retail for €200/£180 starting January 21.
Huawei Watch Ultimate Design Royal Gold Edition
Huawei Watch Ultimate Design Royal Gold Edition.
Huawei has refreshed its premium Watch Ultimate with a new Royal Gold Edition. The model stands out with a rare-earth purple ceramic bezel paired with 18-carat gold accents. It uses a zirconium-based liquid metal body and a purple-gold titanium alloy strap to complete its luxury finish.
Huawei Watch Ultimate Design Royal Gold Edition inside the box.
Other specifications include a 1.5-inch LTPO 2.0 AMOLED display, the Kirin W80 chipset, and an 867mAh battery rated for up to 11 days of usage. It maintains 150m (20 ATM) water resistance and supports sonar-based underwater communication. Health tracking is powered by the TruSense system and an X-Tap sensor offering 11 key health metrics including ECG.
Running HarmonyOS 5.1, the watch supports eSIM functionality, dual-band GPS, on-device calling, and music playback. It will be priced at €3,300/£3,000 and will go on sale starting January 15.
Huawei MatePad 11.5 S 2025 With High-Refresh Display and Stylus Support
Huawei MatePad 11.5 S 2025.
Originally announced in China, the MatePad 11.5 S 2025 features an 11.5-inch IPS LCD with a 2,800 × 1,840 resolution and a 144Hz refresh rate. It supports stylus input via the M-Pencil Pro and includes quad speakers for an improved multimedia experience.
Huawei has not revealed the tablet’s chipset, but it will ship with 12GB RAM and either 256GB or 512GB storage. The device includes a 13MP rear camera and an 8MP front sensor. Its 8,800mAh battery supports 40W fast charging.
The MatePad 11.5 S will be available in Field Green, Feather Sand Purple, Frost Silver, and Deep Space Grey. Pricing is set at €480/£350, with availability beginning January 15.
FAQs
Q1. What is the Huawei Mate X7 and how much does it cost?
Answer. The Huawei Mate X7 is a premium foldable smartphone with an 8-inch inner LTPO OLED display, advanced durability features, and a triple rear camera system. It is priced at €2,099.
Q2. What are the key features of the Huawei FreeClip 2 earbuds?
Answer. The FreeClip 2 open-ear earbuds feature a C-shaped design, 10.8mm dual-diaphragm drivers, AI-powered adaptive sound, triple-mic noise reduction, IP57 rating, and up to 38 hours playback. They retail for €200/£180 starting January 21.
Q3. What makes the Huawei Watch Ultimate Design Royal Gold Edition unique?
Answer. This luxury smartwatch combines a rare-earth purple ceramic bezel with 18-carat gold accents, a zirconium-based liquid metal body, and a purple-gold titanium alloy strap. It offers ECG tracking, 11-day battery life, and is priced at €3,300/£3,000.
Q4. What are the specifications of the Huawei MatePad 11.5 S?
Answer. The MatePad 11.5 S features an 11.5-inch 144Hz IPS LCD, stylus support via M-Pencil Pro, quad speakers, 12GB RAM, up to 512GB storage, and an 8,800mAh battery with 40W fast charging. It costs €480/£350 and is available from January 15.
Q5. What is the theme of Huawei’s “Unfold the Moment” launch event?
Answer. The event highlighted Huawei’s commitment to user-focused innovation and design, introducing four flagship products globally: Mate X7, FreeClip 2, Watch Ultimate Royal Gold, and MatePad 11.5 S.
Apple will release the iPhone 17e as an affordable upgrade featuring the new A19 chip.
The iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max are expected with larger batteries, the 2nm A20 Pro chip, under-display Face ID, a refined rear glass design, variable aperture cameras and Apple’s new C2 modem.
Apple’s first foldable will arrive in fall 2026 with a titanium frame, 7.6-inch inner display, 5.4-inch outer panel, the largest iPhone battery yet, dual cameras and Touch ID
Caption – Apple’s iPhone 17 Series launched in 2025. (Image credit – Apple)
Apple may have wrapped up its product launches for 2025, but 2026 is shaping up to be a packed year for the company. According to new reports, Apple is preparing to introduce four new iPhone models next year and one of them is expected to arrive much earlier than usual. Here’s what we know about Apple’s 2026 launch calendar so far.
iPhone 17e
Caption – iPhone 16e in the picture for reference. (Image credit – Apple)
Apple’s first release of 2026 is likely to be the iPhone 17e, which will complete the iPhone 17 lineup. This upcoming model is the successor to the iPhone 16e and is tipped to bring multiple improvements. The phone could include the new A19 chip up from the A18, a switch to the Dynamic Island design, a Centre Stage-enabled front camera and slimmer bezels for a more refined look.
However, some limitations will remain. The iPhone 17e is still expected to feature a single rear camera, lack ProMotion and always-on display support, and omit the Camera Control button. Even so, with a rumoured starting price of $599, it could become an attractive option for buyers seeking an affordable upgrade.
iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max
Caption – iPhone 17 Pro series in the picture for reference. (Image credit – Apple)
Apple’s major annual launch cycle will continue in the fall with the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max. These flagship devices are rumoured to expand on the success of the iPhone 17 Pro lineup. Expected upgrades include larger batteries, the next-generation A20 Pro chip built on a 2nm process, a smaller Dynamic Island, possibly reduced to a simple hole-punch cutout and Face ID sensors concealed beneath the display.
Additional enhancements may include a more seamless rear glass design, a variable aperture camera system and Apple’s new C2 cellular modem. While the changes may not be radical, the refinements could help replicate the strong demand seen for this year’s Pro models.
No Standard iPhone 18?
Surprisingly, one model expected in Apple’s usual fall lineup may be missing. Multiple reports have claimed that the standard iPhone 18 reportedly won’t arrive in 2026. Instead, Apple is said to be shifting its release to early 2027.
If plans hold, the spring 2027 launch could include the base iPhone 18, the iPhone 18e, and possibly the next-generation iPhone Air 2.
iPhone Fold/ iPhone Ultra
Caption – A concept image of a possible iPhone Fold design for reference. (Image credit – Unknown)
The most anticipated addition to Apple’s 2026 roadmap is undoubtedly its first foldable device, tentatively referred to as the iPhone Fold or iPhone Ultra. Expected to launch in fall 2026 with a premium price tag of $2,000 or more, the foldable iPhone is said to feature an ultra-slim titanium frame reminiscent of the iPhone Air.
The inner foldable display is rumoured to span around 7.6 inches, paired with an outer 5.4-inch panel. Apple is reportedly aiming for a nearly crease-free book-style folding mechanism. The device may also include the largest battery ever in an iPhone, though real-world battery life remains uncertain due to its unique form factor.
Powering the foldable will be the same A20 Pro chip found in the iPhone 18 Pro models. Camera hardware may include two rear sensors and two front-facing ones, one for each display. Interestingly, Apple may opt for Touch ID instead of Face ID due to space constraints and the dual-screen design.
2026 is shaping up to be one of Apple’s most important years in recent memory, not only for multiple significant launches but also because of Apple’s debut in the foldable segment.
FAQs
Q1. When will Apple launch its first iPhone of 2026?
Answer. Apple is expected to release the iPhone 17e early in 2026, ahead of its usual fall lineup.
Q2. What upgrades are coming to the iPhone 18 Pro models?
Answer. The iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max, launching in fall 2026, may feature the A20 Pro chip (2nm process), larger batteries, under-display Face ID, a smaller Dynamic Island, variable aperture cameras, and Apple’s new C2 cellular modem.
Q3. Is Apple releasing a foldable iPhone in 2026?
Answer. Yes, Apple is expected to debut its first foldable device, the iPhone Fold/Ultra, in fall 2026. It may include a 7.6-inch inner display, a 5.4-inch outer panel, a titanium frame, the largest iPhone battery yet, and a premium price tag of $2,000 or more.
Spotify has announced a new feature called Prompted Playlist, designed to give listeners deeper control over how the platform’s recommendation algorithm works. The feature is currently rolling out in beta across select global markets. Announcing the new feature in a newsroom post, Spotify writes, “we’re entering a moment where you don’t just listen to Spotify, you control it. Imagine a Spotify that doesn’t just passively learn from you but literally listens to you. One you can steer and shape with your own words. For the first time, your ideas, your logic, and your creativity can actually power the Spotify algorithm, directing how it thinks, adapts, and responds to you.”
According to the company, users can describe what they want to hear and set specific rules for personalised playlists. Prompted Playlist pulls from a user’s entire Spotify listening history and allows them to refine results by editing the prompt or starting over with a new one.
How Spotify Prompted Playlist Work?
With the Prompted Playlist feature, listeners can simply describe the kind of music they’re in the mood for. And Spotify will generate a playlist that aligns with their taste by analysing their listening patterns and using artificial intelligence (AI).
For instance, a user could ask for “music from my top artists from the last five years,” and Spotify will automatically create a playlist, as revealed in the company’s newsroom post. Users can further narrow the results with prompts like “and feature deep cuts I haven’t heard yet” or “include music from this year’s biggest films and most-talked-about TV shows that match my taste.”
Spotify is also introducing preset prompts and English-language algorithms, which will appear as personalised playlist cards on the app’s Home screen.
Advanced Version of Spotify’s AI Playlist
Spotify says Prompted Playlist builds on the AI playlist feature introduced in 2024. As reported by TechCrunch, the major upgrade here is the ability to use longer, more detailed prompts, giving users greater influence over the playlist outcome. The feature also leverages broader world knowledge to further refine selections.
Prompted Playlist will refresh periodically based on updated listening trends and global context. Users also have the option to adjust how often it refreshes, choosing between daily or weekly updates for a continually fresh playlist.
Availability and Rollout
For every song added, Spotify will provide context and a description explaining why it was selected. The company says Prompted Playlist is currently in beta and available only in New Zealand, in English.
Spotify plans to refine the feature before expanding it to additional countries in the future.
FAQs
Q1. What is Spotify’s Prompted Playlist feature?
Answer. Prompted Playlist lets users create personalised playlists by describing what they want to hear, using AI and their listening history to generate results.
Q2. How can listeners refine their Spotify playlists with this feature?
Answer. Users can edit prompts, set rules, or start fresh. They can also use preset prompts and adjust refresh frequency (daily or weekly) for updated playlists.
Q3. Where is Prompted Playlist currently available?
Answer. The feature is in beta, available only in New Zealand in English, with plans for expansion to more countries later.
Apple Noida opens at DLF Mall of India with the full range of Apple products and services.
Over 80 team members provide support with iPhones, Apple Watch Ultra 3, iPad Pro, and MacBook Pro M5, plus services like Trade In, financing, and Apple Pickup.
The store opens to the public on December 11, 2025, at 1 p.m. IST.
Apple’s fifth retail store in India. (Image credit – Apple)
Apple has officially unveiled Apple Noida, its first retail store in Noida and the fifth Apple Store in India. The new store is situated inside DLF Mall of India and offers the complete range of Apple products and services. Visitors can browse the latest iPhone lineup, get personalised support and take part in Today at Apple creative sessions.
Apple Noida becomes the company’s second retail location in the Delhi-NCR region, catering to customers across Noida and the capital. The store builds on Apple’s expanding offline presence, which began with Apple BKC in Mumbai and Apple Saket in Delhi in 2023, followed by Apple Hebbal in Bengaluru and Apple Koregaon Park in Pune, both inaugurated in September 2025.
“Connection is at the heart of everything we do in Apple retail, and we’re excited to open the doors to a new store built for community and creativity with Apple Noida,” said Deirdre O’Brien, Apple’s senior vice president of Retail and People.“Our team members are thrilled to deepen our connections with customers across this vibrant city and help them experience the best of Apple.”
More On Apple Noida Retail Store
Apple Noida store will be operated with an 80-member team. (Image credit – Apple)
More than 80 Apple team members are available at the Noida store to guide customers through the newest products. It includes from the latest iPhone range to Apple Watch Ultra 3, Apple Watch Series 11, the new iPad Pro, and the 14-inch MacBook Pro powered by the M5 chip. Shoppers can also access Apple’s signature services like personalised setup, first-time iOS switching assistance, Apple Trade In, and financing options. The store features product tables and display avenues showcasing Apple services such as Apple Music and Apple TV.
For online shoppers, Apple Pickup allows customers to conveniently collect online orders in-store. Purchases can also be placed directly from any Apple Store across India. Dedicated Business Teams provide tailored device management tools and support for companies of all sizes.
Apple Noida, like all Apple locations worldwide, operates on 100 per cent renewable energy and maintains a carbon-neutral footprint.
Today at Apple Sessions
Apple Noida store will organise free Today at Apple sessions; prior booking required. (Image credit – Apple)
Apple Noida will host free Today at Apple sessions, daily workshops led by Apple Creatives covering photography, art, music, and coding. Beginning on opening day, customers can book sessions to learn new skills and maximise their Apple devices.
Sessions include –
Tips: Work Smarter on Mac
Tips: Get Active with Apple Watch
Workshop: Take Better Photos on iPhone
Kids: Code Your First App
With Apple Noida joining the Apple Store online, Customers can shop with a Specialist over Video, and the Apple Store app. Customers can also download exclusive Apple Noida wallpapers, listen to a curated Apple Music playlist inspired by the city, and explore more about the store at apple.com/in/retail/noida
Apple Noida opens to the public on Thursday, December 11, at 1 p.m. IST.
FAQs
Q1. Where is Apple’s new Noida store located and what makes it significant?
Answer. Apple Noida is situated inside DLF Mall of India. It is Apple’s first store in Noida, the second in NCR, and the fifth in India.
Q2. What products and services are available at Apple Noida?
Answer. Customers can explore the latest iPhones, Apple Watch Ultra 3, Series 11, iPad Pro, and MacBook Pro M5. Services include personalised setup, iOS switching help, Apple Trade In, financing, and Apple Pickup for online orders.
Q3. What special sessions and sustainability features does Apple Noida offer?
Answer. The store hosts free Today at Apple workshops on photography, art, music, and coding. It operates on 100% renewable energy and maintains a carbon-neutral footprint.
The entry-level iPad 12 may use Apple’s current-gen A19 chip, contradicting earlier leak that pointed to A18.
Internal identifiers (J581, J588) linked to the iPad 12 raise questions with past leaks showing different codes.
iPad mini may also shift to A19 depending on Apple’s revisions, while the next iPad Air is expected to feature the M4 chip.
Caption – iPad Air in the picture for reference. (Image credit – Apple)
Apple is expected to unveil the refreshed iPad and iPad Air lineup in early 2026. However, Apple’s 2026 iPad roadmap may have surfaced ahead of schedule. A new report from Macworld claiming that the next entry-level iPad will be powered by the A19 chip. The publication says it has accessed an “internal Apple code document” outlining details about the upcoming models.
This is a surprising shift from earlier information revealed by MacRumors, which suggested that the 12th-generation iPad would feature an A18 chip.Apple’s A19 chipset debuted this year inside the iPhone 17 series, and it would be unusual for the company to place a current-generation processor inside its most affordable iPad due to cost considerations.
Historically, Apple’s low-cost iPads have used older chipsets. The last time an entry-level iPad shipped with a current-gen processor was the iPad 4, back when Apple still designed dedicated AX chips for tablets. Since then, the lineup has consistently adopted A-series chips that lag one or two generations behind the latest iPhone.
For instance, the iPad 11 (March 2025) uses the A16 Bionic first introduced in the iPhone 14 (2022). The iPad 10 (2022) used the A14, the iPad 9 (2021) ran on the A13, and the iPad 8 (2020) shipped with the A12. An A18 for the 2026 iPad would follow this trend more closely.
Another confusion in Macworld’s report is the mention of model identifiers J581 and J588 for the upcoming iPad 12. While these codes are used internally to reference unreleased Apple hardware, they are usually sequential. Earlier code leaks had shown J581 and J582 associated with the next budget iPad.
Past reports have also hinted that the iPad mini could move to the A19 chip, though previous Apple code referenced the mini with identifiers J510 and J511. Apple is known to revise hardware plans during development cycles, so an A19-powered iPad cannot be ruled out completely.
Macworld says the next iPad Air is set to adopt the M4 chip, which is consistent with Apple’s habit of positioning the Air one M-generation behind the latest iPad Pro, which is now running on M5 silicon. Both the new iPad and iPad Air are also said to include Apple’s N1 networking chip.
FAQs
Q1. Which chip is expected to power the 2026 entry-level iPad?
Answer. Reports suggest the iPad 12 may use the A19 chip, though earlier leaks pointed to the A18.
Q2. Why is the A19 chip in a budget iPad considered unusual?
Answer. Apple’s entry-level iPads typically use older processors, lagging one or two generations behind iPhones. The last time a budget iPad shipped with a current-gen chip was the iPad 4.
Q3. What upgrades are expected for the next iPad Air?
Answer. The iPad Air is expected to adopt the M4 chip, keeping it one generation behind the M5-powered iPad Pro, and will also include Apple’s new N1 networking chip.
Redmi Note 15 5G, Note 15 Pro 5G, and Note 15 Pro+ 5G debut globally with AMOLED panels with 120Hz refresh rate, Gorilla Glass Victus 2 and IP65/IP68 rated.
Snapdragon 6 Gen 3, Dimensity 7400 Ultra, and Snapdragon 7s Gen 4 power the models, while batteries range from 5,520mAh to 6,580mAh.
Camera specs differ with 108MP on the base model, 200MP with 4x zoom on Pro/Pro+, plus upgraded 32MP selfie on Pro+.
All three Redmi Note 15 5G series models. (Image credit – Redmi)
The Redmi Note 15 5G starts at 1,199 PLN (~$330) for the 6GB + 128GB variant. The Note 15 Pro 5G is priced at 1,699 PLN (~$468) for the 8GB + 256GB configuration. The Note 15 Pro+ 5G is available at 1,999 PLN (~$550) for 8GB + 256GB and 2,299 PLN (~$633) for the 12GB + 256GB variant. Colour options include Black, Glacier Blue, Mist Purple, and Mocha Brown, depending on the model.
Sales for the Redmi Note 15 5G lineup begin on December 18 in Poland.
The standard Redmi Note 15 5G is equipped with a 6.77-inch AMOLED display with FHD+ resolution. Meanwhile, the Note 15 Pro 5G and Note 15 Pro+ 5G step up to larger 6.83-inch AMOLED CrystalRes panels, offering higher peak brightness and Gorilla Glass Victus 2 protection. All three phones support a 120Hz refresh rate, feature in-display fingerprint sensors, and come in lightweight bodies with IP ratings for durability.
Performance varies across the lineup. The Redmi Note 15 5G is powered by the Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 chipset, the Note 15 Pro 5G runs on the Dimensity 7400 Ultra, and the Note 15 Pro+ 5G uses the Snapdragon 7s Gen 4. The base model offers 6GB or 8GB of RAM, while the Pro+ model can be configured with up to 12GB. Every variant includes UFS 2.2 storage.
Battery capacities range from 5,520mAh on the Note 15 5G to 6,580mAh on the Pro, while the Pro+ version packs a 6,500mAh battery with support for 100W fast charging.
Camera hardware marks a major difference between the models. The Note 15 5G features a 108-megapixel main camera, while the Pro and Pro+ variants upgrade to a 200-megapixel primary sensor with 4x optical zoom. All three devices also include an 8-megapixel ultra-wide camera. On the front, the Note 15 5G and Note 15 Pro 5G house a 20-megapixel selfie camera, while the Pro+ variant features an upgraded 32-megapixel unit.
All Redmi Note 15 5G Series models run HyperOS 2 based on Android 15 and come with AI-powered features including Google Gemini support. Connectivity options include 5G, Wi-Fi up to 6E, Bluetooth, NFC, IR blaster, USB-C, GPS, Galileo, GLONASS, and BeiDou.
The Note 15 5G comes with an IP65 rating, whereas the Pro models offer a higher IP68 rating for dust and water resistance.
FAQs
Q1. What are the key display and durability features of the Redmi Note 15 5G lineup?
Answer. The Note 15 5G has a 6.77-inch AMOLED FHD+ display, while the Pro and Pro+ feature larger 6.83-inch AMOLED CrystalRes panels with Gorilla Glass Victus 2. All models support 120Hz refresh rates, in-display fingerprint sensors, and carry IP ratings (IP65 for Note 15, IP68 for Pro models).
Q2. How do the performance and battery specs differ across the three Redmi Note 15 models?
Answer. The Note 15 5G uses Snapdragon 6 Gen 3, the Pro runs on Dimensity 7400 Ultra, and the Pro+ is powered by Snapdragon 7s Gen 4. Battery sizes range from 5,520mAh (Note 15) to 6,580mAh (Pro), with the Pro+ offering 6,500mAh capacity and 100W fast charging.
Q3. What are the pricing and availability details for the Redmi Note 15 5G series?
Answer. Prices start at 1,199 PLN ($468) for the Pro, and up to 2,299 PLN (~$633) for the Pro+ 12GB variant. Sales begin December 18, 2025, in Poland, with colour options including Black, Glacier Blue, Mist Purple, and Mocha Brown.
ChatGPT led the free iPhone app chart followed by Threads, TikTok, Instagram and multiple Google apps like Gemini, YouTube, Maps and Gmail.
Streaming apps dominated free iPad downloads with YouTube, Netflix, Disney+, HBO Max, and Prime Video at the top.
Roblox, Fortnite, and Block Blast led free iPad games; Minecraft, Geometry Dash, and Stardew Valley topped paid charts.
Apple Arcade hits included NFL Retro Bowl ’26, NBA 2K25 Arcade Edition, and Balatro+.
Apple has shared the year’s most downloaded iPhone apps, offering insight into what users are installing the most on their devices. The rankings cover the top 10 most downloaded free and paid apps and games on both iPhone and iPad, along with a separate chart for the most downloaded Apple Arcade titles.
If you have missed, Apple has also already announced the winners of the 2025 App Store Awards, spotlighting 17 standout apps and games across its platforms including iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch, Apple TV, and Vision Pro. Anyhow, let’s get back to the most downloaded iPhone Apps of 2025.
ChatGPT Tops the Free iPhone App Chart, Threads Follows Strong
Caption – (Photo by Solen Feyissa on Unsplash)
As expected, OpenAI’s ChatGPT takes the top spot as the most downloaded free iPhone app of 2025. This is the most unsurprising win given its massive global popularity. But the rest of the list includes a few unexpected placements.
Meta’s Threads has secured the second position among free iPhone apps. The platform, which Mark Zuckerberg hopes will become the prime competitor to X (formerly Twitter and Bluesky), seems to have drawn significant user interest, helped by heavy cross-promotion from Instagram.
TikTok also maintained a high ranking at number four despite regulatory uncertainties in the United States. Instagram itself ranks sixth. Google, meanwhile, continues to dominate multiple slots with Gemini, YouTube, the Google app, and Google Maps all appearing in the top ten.
Video Streaming Apps Lead on iPad, Instagram Misses Top 10
(Photo by Christian Wiediger on Unsplash)
While Instagram finally launched an official iPad app, it did not break into the top 10 free iPad apps. Instead, the iPad charts are dominated by streaming platforms. YouTube takes the number-one spot, followed by major players like Netflix, Disney+, HBO Max, and Amazon Prime Video.
GoodNotes, popular for its handwriting cleanup tools, folder organisation features, and AI-driven note-taking, also makes the list. Google Chrome appears as well, underscoring Google’s strong presence on both platforms.
Top Games of 2025 – Roblox, Fortnite, Block Blast, Minecraft and More
For gaming, Roblox, Block Blast, and Fortnite top the free iPad games chart. On the paid side, Minecraft, Geometry Dash, and Stardew Valley continue their years-long streak as favourites among iPad users.
Apple Arcade’s most downloaded games are also revealed, with NFL Retro Bowl ’26, NBA 2K25 Arcade Edition, and Balatro+ taking the top positions. The list highlights a mix of sports titles, casual hits, and classic favourites.
Complete Lists of the Most Downloaded iPhone, iPad, and Apple Arcade Apps & Games
Top Free iPhone Apps
ChatGPT
Threads
Google
TikTok – Videos, Shop & LIVE
WhatsApp Messenger
Instagram
YouTube
Google Maps
Gmail – Email by Google
Google Gemini
Top Paid iPhone Apps
HotSchedules
Shadowrocket
Procreate Pocket
AnkiMobile Flashcards
Paprika Recipe Manager 3
SkyView®
TonalEnergy Tuner & Metronome
AutoSleep Track Sleep on Watch
Forest: Focus for Productivity
RadarScope
Top Free iPhone Games
Block Blast！
Fortnite
Roblox
Township
Pokémon TCG Pocket
Royal Kingdom
Clash Royale
Vita Mahjong
Whiteout Survival
Last War:Survival
Top Paid iPhone Games
Minecraft: Dream it, Build it!
Balatro
Heads Up!
Plague Inc.
Geometry Dash
Bloons TD 6
Stardew Valley
Papa’s Freezeria To Go!
Animal Crossing: Pocket Camp C
Red’s First Flight
Top Free iPad Apps
YouTube
ChatGPT
Netflix
Disney+
Amazon Prime Video
TikTok – Videos, Shop & LIVE
Google Chrome
Goodnotes: AI Notes, Docs, PDF
Canva: AI Photo & Video Editor
HBO Max: Stream Movies & TV
Top Paid iPad Apps
Procreate
Procreate Dreams
forScore
ToonSquid
Nomad Sculpt
Shadowrocket
AnkiMobile Flashcards
Bluebeam Revu for iPad
Teach Your Monster to Read
Feather: Draw in 3D
Top Free iPad Games
Roblox
Block Blast！
Fortnite
Perfect Tidy
Magic Tiles 3: Piano Game
Mini Games: Calm & Chill
Goods Puzzle: Sort Challenge
io
Subway Surfers
Township
Top Paid iPad Games
Minecraft: Dream it, Build it!
Geometry Dash
Stardew Valley
Balatro
Bloons TD 6
Plague Inc.
Animal Crossing: Pocket Camp C
Poppy Playtime Chapter 3
Purple Place – Classic Games
Papa’s Sushiria To Go!
Top Apple Arcade Games
NFL Retro Bowl ’26
NBA 2K25 Arcade Edition
Balatro+
io+
Sneaky Sasquatch
Hello Kitty Island Adventure
Fruit Ninja Classic+
Bloons TD 6+
PGA TOUR Pro Golf
Solitaire by MobilityWare+
These rankings are also available directly on the App Store under the apps, games, and Apple Arcade sections.
FAQs
Q1. Which app was the most downloaded free iPhone app in 2025?
Answer. OpenAI’s ChatGPT topped the free iPhone app chart, followed by Meta’s Threads and Google apps like Gemini and YouTube.
Q2. What dominated the iPad app downloads in 2025?
Answer. Streaming platforms led the free iPad charts, with YouTube at number one, followed by Netflix, Disney+, HBO Max, and Amazon Prime Video.
Q3. Which games were the most popular across iPhone, iPad, and Apple Arcade?
Answer. Roblox, Fortnite, and Block Blast topped free iPad games; Minecraft, Geometry Dash, and Stardew Valley led paid charts; Apple Arcade hits included NFL Retro Bowl ’26, NBA 2K25 Arcade Edition, and Balatro+.
Instagram’s “Your Algorithm” feature lets users personalise Reels recommendations by viewing and adjusting their top interests.
Users can check AI‑generated interest summaries, fine‑tune topics they want more or less of and share their personalised algorithm via Stories.
The feature is launching in the US now with a global English rollout in the coming weeks.
(Photo by Brett Jordan on Unsplash)
Instagram has announced a new AI-powered feature called “Your Algorithm,” designed to give users deeper control over the content that appears in their feeds. According to the company, this update uses artificial intelligence to better understand and adapt to users’ changing interests. It ensures more personalised and relevant recommendations.
“Instagram has always been a place to dive deep into your interests and connect with friends. As your interests evolve over time, we want to give you more meaningful ways to control what you see on Instagram, starting with Reels. Using AI, you can now more easily view and personalise the topics that shape your Reels, making recommendations feel even more tailored to you,” the company said in an announcement blog post.
Instagram introduces new Your Algorithm feature. (Image credit – Instagram)
How the New Reels Algorithm Control Work?
The “Your Algorithm” feature can be accessed directly from the Reels screen. While watching a Reel, users can tap the new icon, represented by two lines with hearts and located in the upper right corner. This opens the “Your Algorithm” menu, where several customisation tools are available.
According to the Instagram blog post, the feature includes three main functions –
See Your Top Interests – Users can check a summary of topics Instagram believes are most relevant to them based on their activity.
Tune Preferences – Users can manually type in specific topics they want to see more or less of, allowing the Reels algorithm to adjust recommendations instantly.
Share ‘Your Algorithm’ – Instagram also lets users share their list of interests via Stories, giving followers a peek into the type of content they enjoy.
The Wired, however, reports that Meta isn’t letting go of AI altogether. The Wired report notes, “When a user opens the new “Your Algorithm” tab on Instagram, they’ll see a brief summary of what they’ve “been into” while scrolling through Reels. The topics displayed are based on recent user activity, and the summaries are made using generative AI. Meta’s examples of topics that users could add with the new feature include “Horror movies,” “Chess,” and “College football.”
Availability and Future Expansion
“Your Algorithm” is now rolling out to users in the United States and will expand globally in English in the coming weeks. Instagram also confirmed plans to extend this algorithm-control capability to other sections of the app including the Explore tab and additional surfaces. It will be offering even more ways for users to tailor their experience.
FAQs
Q1. What is Instagram’s “Your Algorithm” feature?
Answer. It’s an AI-powered tool that lets users personalise Reels recommendations by viewing, adjusting, and sharing their top interests.
Q2. How can users access and use Instagram’s “Your Algorithm”?
Answer. While watching a Reel, users can tap the new icon (two lines with hearts) in the upper right corner to open the “Your Algorithm” menu, where they can see interests, tune preferences, or share them via Stories.
Q3. Where is the Instagram Your Algorithm feature available and what’s next?
Answer. “Your Algorithm” is rolling out in the US now, expanding globally in English in the coming weeks with plans to extend beyond Reels to Explore and other app sections.
