The Galaxy S26, S26+, and S26 Ultra are tipped to launch globally on February 25, 2026.
Retail sales may be delayed until late March 2026 with reports suggesting higher prices due to rising memory and storage costs.
The lineup is expected to feature Samsung’s 2nm Exynos 2600 in select markets and Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 (3nm) in others.
Samsung Galaxy S25 Series in the picture for reference. (Image credit – Samsung)
Samsung is expected to unveil its next-generation flagship smartphones, the Galaxy S26 series, soon. The upcoming series is rumoured to include three models, the Galaxy S26, Galaxy S26+, and Galaxy S26 Ultra. While multiple reports have surfaced over the past few months regarding the possible launch timeline, a fresh leak has once again pointed to a specific global launch date.
Samsung Galaxy S26 Series Launch Date Leak
According to a post on X by well-known tipster Evan Blass @evleaks, the Samsung Galaxy S26 series could be officially launched on February 25. The claim comes from a source with a strong track record of accurately leaking details and marketing materials related to unreleased devices.
The date of 25 February is 100% correct. You can take it to the bank. https://t.co/YYe7P85Nwv
This information aligns with a report from November 2025, which had also suggested February 25 as the launch date.
The Korean company typically unveils its Galaxy S series flagships toward the end of January. Earlier reports have indicated that this shift in schedule may be due to a “product lineup adjustment.”
Possible Delay in Sale Timeline
In addition to a delayed launch event, Samsung is also said to be postponing the availability of the Galaxy S26 series. As per a recent report, the upcoming smartphones may go on sale almost a month after their official unveiling. This would place their retail availability around late March.
Galaxy S26 Series – What Else We Know?
Samsung is also reportedly facing challenges in keeping the pricing of the Galaxy S26 series under control. Rising costs associated with memory and storage components are said to be putting pressure on the company, which could lead to noticeably higher launch prices compared to the Galaxy S25 series.
In terms of performance, the Galaxy S26 lineup is expected to feature Samsung’s new 2nm Exynos 2600 chipset in select markets including South Korea. Other regions are likely to receive models powered by Qualcomm’s octa-core 3nm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor.
The company has not officially confirmed any launch plans so far. More clarity is expected to emerge closer to the official announcement.
FAQs
Q1. When is the Samsung Galaxy S26 series expected to launch?
Answer. Leaks suggest the Galaxy S26, S26+, and S26 Ultra could be unveiled globally on February 25, 2026.
Q2. When will the Galaxy S26 series be available for purchase?
Answer. Reports indicate retail sales may begin late March 2026, almost a month after the official launch event.
Q3. What processors will power the Galaxy S26 lineup?
Answer. The series is expected to feature Samsung’s 2nm Exynos 2600 in select markets like South Korea, while other regions may get the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 (3nm).
The Infinix Note Edge will debut on January 19, 2026.
It will be the first smartphone powered by the new MediaTek Dimensity 7100 SoC and running XOS 16 based on Android 16.
Expected features include a 3D curved 1.5K AMOLED display, 50MP rear camera, and 6,500mAh battery, 8GB RAM and 256GB storage.
Previously leaked promo image of the upcoming Infinix Note Edge. (@passionategeekz on X)
Early reports hinted that the new MediaTek Dimensity 7100 SoC would debut in an upcoming Infinix smartphone. That speculation has now been confirmed. Infinix has officially announced that the Infinix Note Edge will be the first smartphone to feature the Dimensity 7100 processor. The brand has also confirmed the launch date of the phone.
Infinix Note Edge Launch Date and Chipset Confirmed
Infinix also confirmed via an official press release that the Infinix Note Edge will officially launch on January 19, 2026. It will debut alongside XOS 16, based on Android 16, making it the first smartphone to run this version out of the box.
MediaTek Dimensity 7100.
According to the official announcement, the Infinix Note Edge will be powered by the Dimensity 7100 SoC, marking the commercial debut of the chipset in the smartphone market. Infinix has positioned the Note Edge as a performance-focused device within its Note series lineup.
Infinix Note Edge – What Else We Know?
On the performance front, Infinix stated that the Note Edge will support up to 90FPS gameplay in popular titles such as Honor of Kings and Peacekeeper Elite. PUBG: Battlegrounds is confirmed to run at 60FPS, with the company claiming stable performance even during extended gaming sessions.
Infinix added that the device has been optimised for smooth multiplayer gameplay,responsive multitasking, and consistent frame rates, without compromising thermal stability.
Efficiency improvements have also been highlighted. Infinix claims modem power consumption has been reduced by up to 21%, while background power usage for social applications has been lowered by 4.4%. These optimisations are expected to result in better battery endurance during intensive daily use including gaming, multitasking, and media consumption.
As per rumours, the Infinix Note Edge is expected to feature a 3D curved AMOLED display with 1.5K resolution, a 50-megapixel rear camera setup, and a large 6,500mAh battery.
FCC Certification Reveals Key Details
Infinix Note Edge (X6887) – FCC Certification.
Separately, the Infinix Note Edge was recently spotted on the FCC certification platform. The listing reveals that the device carries the model number X6887 and supports 5G connectivity, along with Wi-Fi and NFC.
The certification documents also confirm an 8GB RAM and 256GB internal storage variant. Additionally, the FCC listing mentions a Titanium Grey colour option, offering an early look at one of the device’s design choices.
More official details are likely to be revealed in the days leading up to the smartphone’s launch.
FAQs
Q1. When will the Infinix Note Edge launch and what software will it run?
Answer. The Infinix Note Edge will officially launch on January 19, 2026, debuting with XOS 16 based on Android 16.
Q2. What makes the Infinix Note Edge significant in terms of hardware?
Answer. It will be the first smartphone powered by the new MediaTek Dimensity 7100 SoC, positioned as a performance-focused device in the Note series.
Q3. What performance and efficiency improvements are highlighted for the Note Edge?
Answer. It supports 90FPS gameplay in titles like Honor of Kings, 60FPS in PUBG, with reduced modem power consumption (21%) and lower background app usage (4.4%) for better battery endurance.
OpenAI introduced ChatGPT Health, a dedicated space for health queries.
It allows users to upload medical records and connect wellness apps like Apple Health and MyFitnessPal.
Users can interpret test results, prep for doctor visits, get diet/workout guidance, and explore insurance options.
OpenAI Introduces ChatGPT Health Tab. (Image credit – OpenAI)
OpenAI has announced the launch of a new ChatGPT Health tab, designed to answer health-related queries. It allows users to upload medical records and connect to popular wellness apps such as Apple Health and MyFitnessPal.
Announcing the new feature in a post, OpenAI wrote, “Health is already one of the most common ways people use ChatGPT, with hundreds of millions of people asking health and wellness questions each week. ChatGPT Health builds on the strong privacy, security, and data controls across ChatGPT with additional, layered protections designed specifically for health— including purpose-built encryption and isolation to keep health conversations protected and compartmentalized.”
“You can securely connect medical records and wellness apps to ground conversations in your own health information, so responses are more relevant and useful to you. Designed in close collaboration with physicians, ChatGPT Health helps people take a more active role in understanding and managing their health and wellness—while supporting, not replacing, care from clinicians,” the company further added.
Introducing ChatGPT Health — a dedicated space for health conversations in ChatGPT. You can securely connect medical records and wellness apps so responses are grounded in your own health information.
Designed to help you navigate medical care, not replace it.
With this update, OpenAI is expanding ChatGPT’s functionality by offering a dedicated space focused on health information. The company says it is among the most common use cases for the chatbot. According to OpenAI, more than 230 million people worldwide ask health and wellness-related questions on ChatGPT every week.
What Users Can Do With ChatGPT Health?
ChatGPT Health can help you navigate everyday questions and spot patterns over time, so you feel more informed, prepared, and confident for important medical conversations. pic.twitter.com/UK6U4OosDn
ChatGPT Health can be used to understand recent medical test results, prepare questions ahead of doctor appointments, receive guidance on diet and workout plans, and assess tradeoffs between different insurance options based on personal healthcare patterns. By centralising these tools, OpenAI aims to make health-related interactions more structured and accessible within the app.
Addressing data security, OpenAI emphasised that ChatGPT Health operates separately from the main chatbot experience. “To keep your health information protected and secure, (ChatGPT) Health operates as a separate space with enhanced privacy to protect sensitive data. Conversations in Health are not used to train our foundation models,” OpenAI said.
The launch comes at a time when health technology regulations are being reassessed. Earlier this week, U.S. Food and Drug Administration Commissioner Marty Makary stated that the agency would scale back regulation of wearable devices and software intended to support healthy lifestyles.
Makary has previously described ChatGPT as a product that should be promoted, while also urging caution around major safety concerns.
Availability and Rollout Timeline
OpenAI plans to gradually expand access to ChatGPT Health, making it available to all users on web and iOS in the coming weeks. Initially, the feature is being rolled out to a limited group of early users on ChatGPT Free, Go, Plus, and Pro plans.
However, access is currently restricted outside the European Economic Area, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom as OpenAI continues to test and refine the experience.
FAQs
Q1. What is ChatGPT Health and why was it introduced?
Answer. ChatGPT Health is a dedicated tab designed for health-related queries. It lets users upload medical records and connect wellness apps like Apple Health and MyFitnessPal, making responses more personalised and useful.
Q2. How does ChatGPT Health ensure privacy and security?
Answer. Health operates as a separate space with enhanced privacy, encryption, and isolation. Importantly, conversations in Health are not used to train foundation models.
Q3. What can users do with ChatGPT Health?
Answer. Users can interpret medical test results, prepare questions for doctor visits, get diet and workout guidance, and even compare insurance options based on their healthcare patterns.
Oppo Pad 5 comes in Wi-Fi and 5G variants as sales starts 13th January 2026 via Flipkart and Oppo India.
It features a 12.1-inch 2.8K LCD display, Dolby Vision, Dimensity 7300 chipset, 8GB LPDDR5X RAM, up to 256GB UFS 3.1 storage, 10,050mAh battery with 33W fast charging and runs ColorOS 16 for Pad.
It supports OPPO Pencil 2 with AI note-taking tools, while offering productivity features like Quick App Switch and Flux Home Screen.
Oppo Pad 5 Launched in India. (Image credit – Oppo)
Apart from the Oppo Reno 15 5G series, Oppo has also introduced the Oppo Pad 5 in India. It is worth noting that this tablet is different from the Oppo Pad 5 previously launched in China. The newly launched model appears to be a rebranded version of the Oppo Pad Air 5 from China, which is also sold globally as the OnePlus Pad Go 2.
In India, the Oppo Pad 5 is available in both Wi-Fi (OPD2502) and 5G (OPD2503) variants. Here’s everything you need to know about the model, starting with its price and availability.
Oppo Pad 5 – Price and Availability in India
Oppo Pad 5 price and availability details. (Image credit – Oppo)
The Oppo Pad 5 is priced at ₹26,999 for the Wi-Fi-only variant with 8GB RAM and 128GB storage. The 5G + Wi-Fi model with 8GB RAM and 256GB storage is priced at ₹32,999.
As part of the launch offers, buyers can avail an instant discount of ₹2,000 or choose up to nine months of No Cost EMI. The tablet is currently available for pre-orders via Flipkart and the Oppo India website, with open sales set to begin on 13th January 2026.
Oppo Pad 5 – Display and Design
The Oppo Pad 5 features a large 12.1-inch 2.8K LCD eye-comfort display with a resolution of 2800 × 1980 pixels and a 7:5 aspect ratio. The panel offers 284 PPI and supports a 120Hz adaptive refresh rate. With up to 900 nits of peak brightness and Dolby Vision support, the display is designed to deliver sharp and vivid visuals.
Oppo has also focused on eye comfort, equipping the tablet with TÜV Rheinland Intelligent Eye Care 4.0 certification and reduced blue light support for extended usage
In terms of colours, the tablet is available in Aurora Pink and Starlight Black options.
Oppo Pad 5 colour variants available in the Indian market. (Image credit – Oppo)
Oppo Pad 5 – Key Features
Powering the Oppo Pad 5 is the MediaTek Dimensity 7300 SoC, paired with 8GB of LPDDR5X RAM and up to 256GB of UFS 3.1 internal storage. The 5G variant includes a dedicated single SIM tray. For photography and video calls, the tablet houses an 8MP camera on both the front and the rear.
The device also supports USB OTG, allowing users to connect USB flash drives and accessories via the USB Type-C port.
The Oppo Pad 5 is backed by a large 10,050mAh battery and supports 33W fast wired charging. According to Oppo, the tablet can deliver up to 53 hours of online music playback, up to 15 hours of online video streaming, or up to 6 hours of heavy gaming on a single charge.
For audio, the tablet features a quad-speaker immersive sound system, offering a cinematic audio experience for movies, gaming, and multimedia consumption.
Oppo Pad 5 key features explained. (Image credit – Oppo)
Software, Connectivity, and Sensors
The Oppo Pad 5 runs on ColorOS 16 for Pad, which is optimised for large-screen productivity and smooth performance. Oppo has also promised long-term performance stability, backed by a 48-month fluency protection certification from TÜV SÜD. The tablet supports seamless cross-device and cross-ecosystem connectivity, allowing easy file and media transfers between Oppo Pad devices, smartphones, iPhones, and PCs.
Both variants support Wi-Fi 6, Wi-Fi 5, and 802.11a/b/g/n standards, along with WLAN tethering. Bluetooth 5.4 with Low Energy and BLE Audio is included, with support for SBC, AAC, aptX, aptX HD, and LDAC codecs.
The 5G variant supports cellular connectivity via SIM, while the Wi-Fi model does not. Both versions feature a USB Type-C port with support for Type-C digital earphones, though analogue Type-C headphones are not supported.
In terms of sensors, the 8GB + 256GB 5G model includes an ambient light sensor, colour temperature sensor, e-compass, accelerometer, Hall sensor, and proximity sensor. The 8GB + 128GB Wi-Fi variant comes with an ambient light sensor, colour temperature sensor, accelerometer, and Hall sensor.
Cell Broadcast Service and GNSS location technology are available exclusively on the 5G variant.
Productivity Features and OPPO Pencil 2 Support
The Oppo Pad 5 supports the flagship-grade, low-latency OPPO Pencil 2, which is designed for precise handwriting, sketching, and note-taking. Features such as real-time handwriting polish help improve note clarity, while AI-powered note-taking tools assist with better organisation and idea capture.
The OPPO Pencil 2 offers up to 20 hours of usage on a single charge with a quick 10-minute charge delivering up to 12 hours of use.
The tablet also supports Quick App Launch & Switch, enabling faster app opening and smooth switching between up to 12 active applications simultaneously. Additionally, the Flux Home Screen expands the workspace with a flexible dock that can hold up to 15 apps and a home-screen grid that supports up to 60 apps.
FAQs
Q1. What are the price and availability details of the Oppo Pad 5 in India?
Answer. The Wi-Fi variant (8GB/128GB) costs ₹26,999, while the 5G + Wi-Fi model (8GB/256GB) is ₹32,999. Pre-orders are live, and open sales start 13th January 2026 via Flipkart and Oppo India.
Q2. What display features does the Oppo Pad 5 offer?
Answer. It sports a 12.1-inch 2.8K LCD eye-comfort display with 120Hz adaptive refresh rate, Dolby Vision, 900 nits peak brightness, and TÜV Rheinland Intelligent Eye Care 4.0 certification.
Q3. Which processor powers the Oppo Pad 5?
Answer. The tablet is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7300 chipset, paired with 8GB LPDDR5X RAM and up to 256GB UFS 3.1 storage.
Q4. What are the battery and audio highlights of the Oppo Pad 5?
Answer. It packs a 10,050mAh battery with 33W fast charging, offering up to 53 hours of music playback. Audio is handled by a quad-speaker immersive sound system with cinematic quality.
Q5. Does the Oppo Pad 5 support stylus input and productivity features?
Answer. Yes, it supports the OPPO Pencil 2 with low-latency handwriting and AI note-taking tools. Productivity features include Quick App Launch & Switch and Flux Home Screen for multitasking.
Oppo launched four models in India – Reno 15, Reno 15c, Reno 15 Pro, and the new compact Reno 15 Pro Mini.
Prices range from ₹34,999 to ₹72,999, with sales starting January 13, 2026 (Reno 15c in February).
All models feature AMOLED panels with 120Hz refresh rate, redesigned camera modules with halo glow, and HoloFusion glass backs.
Oppo has kicked off its 2026 smartphone lineup in India with the launch of the Oppo Reno 15 series. The new lineup includes four models, which include Oppo Reno 15, Oppo Reno 15c, Oppo Reno 15 Pro, and the newly introduced Oppo Reno 15 Pro Mini.
Succeeding the Reno 14 series, the latest range brings several notable upgrades, most notably the debut of the Pro Mini. The new model marks the first compact smartphone in the Reno lineup. The series is aimed at users looking for a premium design, capable cameras, and solid overall performance. Here’s more on all models in the lineup, starting with their price and availability.
Oppo Reno 15 Series – Price and Sale Date in India
The Oppo Reno 15 is priced starting at Rs 45,999 for the 8GB RAM and 256GB storage variant. The 12GB/256GB and 12GB/512GB models are priced at Rs 48,999 and Rs 53,999, respectively.
The Reno 15c starts at Rs 34,999 for the 8GB/256GB variant, while the 12GB/256GB option costs Rs 37,999.
The Reno 15 Pro Mini is priced at Rs 59,999 for the 12GB/256GB variant, with the 12GB/512GB model costing Rs 64,999.
Meanwhile, the top-end Reno 15 Pro is priced at Rs 67,999 for the 12GB/256GB variant, while the 12GB/512GB model is priced at Rs 72,999.
The Oppo Reno 15, Reno 15 Pro, and Reno 15 Pro Mini will go on sale in India starting January 13, 2026.
The Oppo Reno 15c will be available for purchase in February.
Oppo Reno 15 Series – Design and Colour Options
The Oppo Reno 15 series consists of the standard Reno 15, Reno 15 Pro, Reno 15 Pro Mini, and the Reno 15c. All four models feature a redesigned camera module that resembles the layout seen on earlier iPhone Pro models. Oppo has added a ring-style surround around the camera module, which produces a soft halo-like glow when illuminated.
According to Oppo, the Reno 15 series uses its new HoloFusion Technology, which gives the glass back panels a three-dimensional visual effect. The Reno 15, Reno 15 Pro, and Reno 15 Pro Mini feature aerospace-grade aluminium frames.
In terms of colour variants, the Reno 15 Pro is available in Sunset Gold and Cocoa Brown. The Reno 15 Pro Mini comes in Cocoa Brown and Glacier White, the latter featuring a ribbon-style pattern created using HoloFusion. The standard Reno 15 is offered in Glacier White, Twilight Blue, and Aurora Blue, while the Reno 15c is available in Twilight Blue and Afterglow Pink.
Oppo Reno 15 Series – Key Specifications
On the front, all four models feature AMOLED displays. The Oppo Reno 15 sports a 6.59-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate and Gorilla Glass 7i protection. The Reno 15 Pro features a larger 6.78-inch 120Hz AMOLED panel protected by Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2. The compact Reno 15 Pro Mini comes with a 6.32-inch 120Hz AMOLED display with Corning Gorilla Glass 7i protection. Meanwhile, the Reno 15c is equipped with a 6.57-inch AMOLED panel, also offering a 120Hz refresh rate.
In the camera department, the Reno 15 Pro and Reno 15 Pro Mini are equipped with a triple rear camera setup consisting of a 200-megapixel primary sensor, a 50-megapixel 3.5x telephoto portrait camera, and a 50-megapixel ultra-wide lens. The standard Reno 15 features a 50-megapixel main camera, a 50-megapixel 3.5x telephoto camera, and an 8-megapixel ultra-wide sensor. The Reno 15c comes with a single 50-megapixel rear camera.
All four smartphones are equipped with a new 50-megapixel front-facing camera, which Oppo claims supports ultra-wide selfies.
Under the hood, the Oppo Reno 15 Pro and Reno 15 Pro Mini are powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 8450 chipset. The standard Reno 15 runs on the Snapdragon 7 Gen 4 SoC, while the Reno 15c is powered by the Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 processor.
Battery capacities vary across the lineup. The Reno 15 packs a 6,500mAh battery, while the Reno 15 Pro and Reno 15 Pro Mini feature 6,200mAh batteries. The Reno 15c comes with the largest battery in the series at 7,000mAh. All four devices support 80W fast charging.
Software-wise, the entire Reno 15 series runs Android 16-based ColorOS 16 out of the box.
FAQs
Q1. What models are included in the Oppo Reno 15 series?
Answer. The lineup consists of Reno 15, Reno 15c, Reno 15 Pro, and the new compact Reno 15 Pro Mini.
Q2. What are the key camera upgrades in the Reno 15 series?
Answer. The Reno 15 Pro and Pro Mini feature a 200MP primary sensor, a 50MP telephoto portrait lens, and a 50MP ultra-wide lens. The standard Reno 15 has a 50MP main + 50MP telephoto + 8MP ultra-wide, while the Reno 15c offers a single 50MP rear camera. All models include a 50MP front camera for ultra-wide selfies.
Q3. When will the Oppo Reno 15 series go on sale in India?
Answer. The Reno 15, Reno 15 Pro, and Reno 15 Pro Mini will be available starting January 13, 2026, while the Reno 15c will go on sale in February 2026.
Q4. What processors power the different Oppo Reno 15 models?
Answer. The Reno 15 Pro and Pro Mini use the MediaTek Dimensity 8450, the Reno 15 runs on Snapdragon 7 Gen 4, and the Reno 15c is powered by Snapdragon 6 Gen 1.
Q5. What are the battery capacities and charging speeds across the Reno 15 lineup?
Answer. The Reno 15 has a 6,500mAh battery, the Pro and Pro Mini feature 6,200mAh batteries, and the Reno 15c packs a 7,000mAh battery. All support 80W fast charging.
POCO M8 5G launched in India with prices starting at ₹18,999, but effective offers bring it down to ₹15,999.
It is available in Carbon Black, Glacial Blue, and Frost Silver, first sale begins 13th January 2026 via Flipkart and POCO’s website.
Key features – 6.77-inch FHD+ display, Snapdragon 6 Gen 3, dual rear camera (50MP + 2MP), 20MP front camera and 5,520mAh battery with 45W fast charging.
POCO M8 5G Launched in India. (Image credit – Poco)
POCO M8 5G has been officially unveiled in India today after the company released teasers for weeks leading up to the launch. The handset will be available for purchase through Flipkart and the company’s official website. Here’s everything you need to know about the phone.
POCO M8 5G | #DesignedToSlay ⚔️ ft. EPR & Gopika
7.35mm slim. 178g light.
Curved AMOLED. Snapdragon 6 Gen 3.
IP66 + MIL-STD-810H tough.
POCO M8 5G price and launch offers explained. (Image credit – Poco)
POCO M8 5G model-wise prices are as follows –
Model
Price
Effective price after launch offers
6 GB + 128
₹18,999
₹15,999
8 GB + 128 GB
₹19,999
₹16,999
8 GB + 256 GB
₹21,999
₹18,999
The company is offering a ₹2000 instant bank discount and a ₹1000 additional discount as part of the initial launch offers. This effectively brings down the start price to ₹15,999.
The first sale is scheduled to start on 13th January 2026 at 12 PM on Flipkart and POCO’s official website.
It is being offered in Carbon Black, Glacial Blue, and Frost Silver colourways
POCO M8 5G colour variants. (Image credit – Poco)
POCO M8 5G – Key Features
Poco M8 5G sports a large 6.77-inch display with a resolution of 2392 x 1080 pixels, delivering a pixel density of 387ppi. The screen supports an adaptive refresh rate ranging between 30Hz, 60Hz, 90Hz, and 120Hz, along with a 240Hz touch sampling rate and 3840Hz PWM dimming. Brightness levels reach 800 nits typically, 1,000 nits in high brightness mode, and peak at up to 3,200 nits.
The panel offers a 92.7 percent screen-to-body ratio, is protected by reinforced glass, and carries triple TÜV Rheinland eye protection certifications, including low blue light (hardware solution), flicker-free operation, and circadian-friendly viewing.
POCO M8 5G key features explained. (Image credit – Poco)
The smartphone is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 chipset built on a 4nm process, featuring an octa-core CPU with four Cortex-A78 cores clocked at 2.4GHz and four Cortex-A55 cores running at 1.8GHz, paired with an Adreno GPU.
It comes with LPDDR4X RAM and UFS 2.2 storage, and runs on HyperOS 2 based on Android. The device is promised to receive four years of Android OS updates along with six years of security updates.
For photography, the smartphone features a dual rear camera setup comprising a 50-megapixel primary camera with a Light Fusion 400 sensor and a 2-megapixel secondary sensor. Rear camera modes include Ultra HD, Photo, Portrait, HDR, Timer, Watermark, Google Lens, Dynamic Shot, and Panorama, along with video features such as 4K recording, slow motion, and timelapse.
On the front, it houses a 20-megapixel camera that supports features like Dynamic Shot, Timer, and HDR.
The device is backed by a 5,520mAh battery with support for 45W fast charging, and a 45W charger is included in the box. It also supports 18W reverse charging. For security, it comes with an in-display fingerprint sensor and carries IP65 and IP66 ratings for dust and water resistance.
Audio is handled by dual stereo speakers with up to 300 per cent volume output.
In terms of design and connectivity, the smartphone features a PC back panel that measures 7.35mm in thickness and weighs 178 grams. Connectivity options include Bluetooth 5.1 and Wi-Fi 5. The phone measures 164mm in length, 75.42mm in width, and 7.35mm in height, maintaining a slim and lightweight profile.
FAQs
Q1. What is the starting price of the POCO M8 5G in India?
Answer. The POCO M8 5G starts at ₹18,999, but with launch offers (₹2000 bank discount + ₹1000 extra), the effective price begins at ₹15,999.
Q2. When and where will the POCO M8 5G be available for purchase?
Answer. The first sale is scheduled for 13th January 2026 at 12PM on Flipkart and POCO’s official website.
Q3. What are the key display features of the POCO M8 5G?
Answer. It has a 6.77-inch FHD+ display with adaptive refresh rates up to 120Hz, peak brightness of 3,200 nits, TÜV Rheinland eye protection, and reinforced glass protection.
Q4. What cameras does the POCO M8 5G offer?
Answer. The phone features a 50MP + 2MP dual rear camera with 4K video, slow motion, timelapse, and a 20MP front camera supporting HDR and Dynamic Shot.
Q5. What are the battery and durability highlights of the POCO M8 5G?
Answer. It packs a 5,520mAh battery with 45W fast charging (charger included), supports 18W reverse charging, and carries IP65/IP66 dust and water resistance ratings.
Spotify is adding Listening Activity and Request to Jam to Messages.
Listening Activity shows what friends are currently playing and lets users react with emojis, add tracks, or start playback.
Request to Jam feature allows Premium users can invite friends into live Jam sessions directly from chats.
Spotify Adds Listening Activity and ‘Request to Jam’ Features. (Image credit – Spotify)
It has been nearly a year since Spotify rolled out Messages, and the company says close to 40 million users are already using the feature. To build on that momentum, Spotify is now adding two new features for iOS and Android users, which are Listening Activity and Request to Jam. Here’s everything you need to know about the new features.
Listening Activity Shows What Friends are Playing
Listening Activity is an optional feature that displays the music a user is currently listening to directly inside Messages. If a user is not actively playing anything, the most recently played track is shown instead. The feature is visible only to friends and family members a user is already connected with through Messages.
Even if a user chooses not to share their own activity, they can still see the listening activity of others who have opted in. Spotify says users remain fully in control with the option to enable or disable the feature at any time.
How Does It Work?
To turn it on, users can head to Privacy and social settings via the side drawer next to the “View profile” button. Once enabled, listening activity appears in the chat row of the side drawer and at the top of individual Messages chats.
Tapping on a friend’s listening activity allows users to add tracks to their library, start playback, open the track’s context menu, or react using one of six standard emojis. Spotify notes that listening activity is shared only with people a user has already messaged on the platform.
Request to Jam Makes Shared Listening Easier
Alongside the Listening Activity, Spotify is rolling out Request to Jam, a feature designed to turn solo listening into a shared experience. It allows users to invite friends or family members they’re connected with in Messages into a live Jam session.
Spotify says the Jam feature has been gaining traction with daily active users more than doubling year over year. While Jam already allows people to listen together remotely, Request to Jam makes it easier to know when someone is available and invite them directly from a chat.
How Does It Work?
Premium users can send a Jam request by tapping the Jam option in the top-right corner of a Messages chat. The recipient can then accept or decline the request. If accepted, the recipient becomes the host of the Jam session. Both participants can add tracks to a shared queue and listen together in real time.
During a Jam session, participants can see each other’s display names and receive song recommendations based on their combined listening tastes. Users can leave a Jam at any time, and unanswered Jam requests will automatically expire after a few minutes.
Availability and Eligibility
Listening Activity and Request to Jam are now rolling out to users in markets where Messages is supported on iOS and Android. Meanwhile, broader availability is expected by early February. Listening Activity is available to all users with access to Messages, while Free users can join a Jam session when invited by a Premium subscriber.
Since both features are part of Spotify Messages, they are available to users aged 16 and above.
FAQs
Q1. What new features has Spotify added to Messages?
Answer. Spotify has introduced Listening Activity and Request to Jam to make music chats more social and interactive.
Q2. How does Listening Activity work in Spotify Messages?
Answer. It shows what friends are currently listening to (or their last played track), lets users react with emojis, add songs to their library, or start playback. Users can enable or disable it anytime in privacy settings.
Q3. What is the Request to Jam feature on Spotify?
Answer. Premium users can invite friends directly from a chat into a live Jam session, where both can add tracks to a shared queue, listen together in real time, and get personalised recommendations.
Apple is reportedly evaluating multispectral imaging technology for future iPhones, though formal testing has not yet begun.
Multispectral cameras could improve material recognition, subject separation, portraits, and computational photography.
Leaks suggest iPhone 18 Pro may feature a variable aperture main camera and a larger aperture telephoto lens, but no 200MP sensor prototypes yet.
Rumours suggest future iPhones could get multispectral cameras. (Image credit – Apple)
The rumour mill is always working overtime when it comes to any new experiments that Apple might be conducting for its upcoming product lineup. The latest word to hit online rumours is about the possible camera tech for future iPhones.
It appears Apple might be evaluating multispectral imaging technology for future iPhone models. If true, this move could significantly enhance camera intelligence, material recognition, and overall image processing. The information comes from a new supply chain-related leak originating in China.
Multispectral Imaging Technology in Future iPhones
Tipster Digital Chat Station’s post on Weibo. (Translated via Google Translate)
According to a post on Weibo by well-known tipster Digital Chat Station, Apple is currently reviewing multispectral imaging components within its supply chain. However, the leaker notes that formal testing has not yet started, indicating that the technology is still in an early exploratory phase rather than active development.
The post also reiterated that the main camera on the iPhone 18 Pro models is expected to feature a variable aperture, while the telephoto lens could gain a larger aperture. The leaker also claimed that Apple has not yet begun prototyping 200-megapixel camera sensors for future iPhone models.
As for Multispectral imaging, it goes beyond conventional smartphone photography, which relies on red, green, and blue light data. Instead, it captures images across multiple and distinct wavelength bands, potentially including near-infrared and other narrow spectral ranges. This allows cameras to gather information that standard sensors typically cannot detect.
iPhone camera module internal design. (Image credit – Apple)
How Can It Improve Camera Quality?
If introduced in future iPhones, multispectral cameras could improve how the device differentiates between materials and surfaces. The camera could more accurately identify elements such as skin, fabric, vegetation, or reflective objects by analysing light reflection across various wavelengths.
This could lead to better subject separation, cleaner portraits, and more reliable computational photography effects.
The technology could also enhance image processing in challenging or mixed lighting conditions. Additionally, multispectral data may strengthen Apple’s Visual Intelligence and on-device machine learning capabilities, potentially improving object recognition, scene understanding and depth estimation.
Despite its advantages, multispectral imaging would require more complex sensor designs. This could increase production costs and place additional pressure on internal space constraints inside the iPhone. These challenges may explain why Apple is reportedly still assessing the technology rather than actively testing it in prototype devices.
FAQs
Q1. What camera technology is Apple rumoured to be exploring for future iPhones?
Answer. Apple is reportedly evaluating multispectral imaging technology, which captures data across multiple wavelength bands beyond standard RGB.
Q2. How could multispectral cameras improve iPhone photography?
Answer. They could enhance material recognition, subject separation, portraits, and computational photography, while boosting machine learning for object recognition, scene understanding, and depth estimation.
Q3. What other camera-related rumours exist about upcoming iPhone models?
Answer. Leaks suggest the iPhone 18 Pro may feature a variable aperture main camera and a larger aperture telephoto lens, but Apple has not begun prototyping 200MP sensors.
WhatsApp introduced Member Tags, Text Stickers, and Event Reminders in group chats.
Member Tags let users assign roles, Text Stickers turn typed words into graphic stickers and Event Reminders help groups plan.
These updates are available worldwide and build on WhatsApp’s existing group tools.
(Photo by Alexander Shatov on Unsplash)
WhatsApp has rolled out a set of new features aimed at making group chats more organised, expressive, and easier to manage when important conversations are happening. Group Chats on WhatsApp remain central to planning events, managing communities, and staying connected across devices. Now, the Meta-owned messaging platform is refining how users interact within shared conversations.
The latest update brings three new tools, Member Tags, Text Stickers, and Event Reminders. Each of these features are designed to add more flexibility and structure to group chats.
Member Tags, Text Stickers, and Event Reminders
WhatsApp introduces new Group Chat features. (Image credit – Meta)
Member Tags allow users to assign themselves different roles in different group chats, adding useful context to conversations. For instance, a user can appear as “Coach” in one group and “Dad” in another, depending on the group’s purpose.
Text Stickers make chats more expressive by instantly converting typed words into sticker-style graphics. These can also be saved to custom sticker packs for future use.
Event Reminders enhance group planning by letting users set custom early reminders when creating and sharing events in a group chat. According to Meta, “this helps everyone remember to commute to the party you’re hosting or hop on the call at the right time.”
Availability
The new group chat features are now available to WhatsApp users globally. They follow other recent updates to the platform including third-party chat support in the EU and the launch of WhatsApp for Apple Watch.
Recent WhatsApp Group Chat Upgrades
These additions build on WhatsApp’s expanding list of group-focused features introduced in recent years. Existing tools already allow users to share large files of up to 2GB, send HD photos and videos, share screens during calls, and use voice chats for real-time discussions without starting a formal call.
According to WhatsApp, the latest updates are part of its broader push to deliver what it considers the best group chat experience across platforms and devices. With group conversations playing an increasingly important role in both personal and professional communication, the platform appears focused on reducing friction, improving clarity, and giving users greater control over how they connect.
FAQs
Q1. What new features has WhatsApp introduced for group chats?
Answer. WhatsApp has rolled out Member Tags, Text Stickers, and Event Reminders to make group conversations more organised, expressive, and easier to manage.
Q2. How do Member Tags, Text Stickers, and Event Reminders work?
Answer. Member Tags let users assign themselves roles (e.g., “Coach” or “Dad”) depending on the group. Text Stickers instantly convert typed words into sticker-style graphics that can be saved for later use. Event Reminders allow users to set custom alerts for upcoming events, helping everyone stay on schedule.
Q3. Are these new features available to all WhatsApp users?
Answer. Yes, the features are now available globally and build on WhatsApp’s existing group tools like large file sharing, HD media, screen sharing, and voice chats.
iQOO has officially confirmed the launch date of its upcoming Z-series smartphone, the iQOO Z11 Turbo. The brand had already teased several key aspects of the device including its pricing strategy, colour options, chipset, design elements, and IP ratings. But now making things more official, the company has revealed the China launch date.
iQOO Z11 Turbo – China Launch Date
The iQOO Z11 Turbo is set to launch in China on January 15 and will be positioned as a performance-centric smartphone with a strong focus on battery life and flagship-level hardware. The handset is already available for pre-order through the official iQOO online store in China.
iQOO’s official post on Weibo. (Translated via Google Translate)
iQOO Z11 Turbo – Key Features (Revealed)
In a Weibo post, iQOO Product Manager Xing Cheng confirmed that the iQOO Z11 Turbo will pack a massive 7,600mAh battery. The smartphone will also support 100W wired fast charging and feature “Direct-Drive Power Supply 2.0” technology. According to the executive, the handset will measure 7.9mm in thickness and weigh approximately 202 grams.
iQOO has also confirmed that the Z11 Turbo will ship with IP68 and IP69 ratings for dust and water resistance.
Separately, tipster Digital Chat Station claimed on Weibo revealed several key features of the upcoming phone. According to DCS, the phone will be powered by Qualcomm’s octa-core Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 chipset, which is built on a 3nm manufacturing process. The phone is confirmed to feature a 6.59-inch display with 1.5K resolution.
For photography, the device will sport a 200-megapixel “ultra-clear” primary rear camera and an 8-megapixel secondary camera. It will feature a 32-megapixel front-facing camera for selfies and video calls.
In terms of build quality, the smartphone will feature a metal frame, a glass back panel, and rounded corners. For security, the smartphone will also be equipped with an ultrasonic fingerprint scanner.
The device is tipped to be offered in multiple RAM and storage configurations including 12GB + 256GB, 12GB + 512GB, 16GB + 256GB, 16GB + 512GB, and 16GB + 1TB variants.
Price Range, Availability, and Colour Options (Revealed)
iQOO has also revealed the colour options for the Z11 Turbo. The smartphone will be available in Canglang Floating Light (blue), Halo Powder (pink), Extreme Night Black, and Sky White colour options.
The company has even confirmed that the smartphone will be priced between CNY 2,500 (roughly Rs. 32,000) and CNY 3,000 (about Rs. 38,000) in the country. The handset is currently available for pre-order via the Vivo China online store.
FAQs
Q1. When is the iQOO Z11 Turbo launching in China?
Answer. The iQOO Z11 Turbo is set to officially launch on January 15, 2026, with pre-orders already open via the Vivo China online store.
Q2. What are the standout specifications of the iQOO Z11 Turbo?
Answer. It features a 7,600mAh battery with 100W fast charging, Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 chipset, a 6.59-inch 1.5K display, and a 200MP primary rear camera.
Q3. How much will the iQOO Z11 Turbo cost and in what variants?
Answer. The phone will be priced between CNY 2,500–3,000 (~₹32,000–₹38,000), available in four colour options and multiple RAM/storage variants up to 16GB + 1TB.
