Samsung teased its first tri-fold phone at the Galaxy Unpacked event.
It is expected to launch after the next Galaxy Z Fold and Flip potentially in 2024 or later.
Key Features – Rumored to have a large 9.9 to 10-inch display, “G-Type” form factor for inward folding, and limited production of 200,000 units.
Samsung’s tri-fold phone aims to compete with Huawei.
Samsung teases the tri-fold phone. (Image credit – Samsung)
At the recent Galaxy Unpacked event, Samsung unveiled its new Galaxy S25 series and a sleek Galaxy S25 Edge, set to launch later this year. But the announcements didn’t stop there as the South Korean tech giant also revealed plans for AR glasses in collaboration with Google and teased its first tri-fold phone.
While the news about a Samsung tri-fold phone has been making rounds, this was the first time the company marked an exciting development in the foldable smartphone market.
While Samsung hasn’t provided a specific release date, the tri-fold phone is expected to launch after the next versions of the Galaxy Z Fold and Flip. This means we might not see it until at least 2024 or later.
Samsung’s tri-fold phone is a bold move to compete with Huawei, which first ventured into tri-fold technology. Samsung has showcased tri-fold prototypes at CES events for years, so it was only a matter of time before the company confirmed its plans to make the device a reality.
Huawei Mate XT. (Image credit – Huawei)
Samsung Tri-Fold Phone – Rumoured Key Features
Large Display: Rumoured to measure 9.9 to 10 inches when fully unfolded giving users a tablet-like experience.
“G-Type” Form Factor: The phone is expected to fold entirely inward unlike Huawei’s Mate X series, which folds both inward and outward. This design choice provides better protection for the primary display when the device is not in use.
Limited Production: Samsung might produce just 200,000 units of its first tri-fold phone, making it a rare and exclusive device.
Samsung’s entry into the tri-fold market solidifies its commitment to pushing the boundaries of foldable tech. With its unique design and advanced features, the tri-fold phone is set to offer a premium experience for users looking for innovation and versatility.
FAQs
Q1. When is Samsung’s tri-fold phone expected to launch?
Answer. While Samsung hasn’t provided a specific release date, the tri-fold phone is expected to launch after the next versions of the Galaxy Z Fold and Flip, which means we might not see it until at least 2024 or later.
Q2. What are the rumoured key features of Samsung’s tri-fold phone?
Answer. The tri-fold phone is rumoured to have a large 9.9 to 10-inch display, a “G-Type” form factor that folds entirely inward, and a limited production of just 200,000 units.
Q3. How does Samsung’s tri-fold phone compare to Huawei’s tri-fold technology?
Answer. Samsung’s tri-fold phone is expected to have a “G-Type” form factor that folds entirely inward, providing better protection for the primary display when not in use unlike Huawei’s Mate X series, which folds both inward and outward.
Airtel’s new prepaid plans following TRAI’s directive have made basic phone services 10-15% more expensive.
The Rs 509 plan now offers unlimited voice calls and 900 SMS messages.
The Rs 1,999 plan provides unlimited voice calls and 3,000 SMS messages
Both plans are without mobile data.
The tariff hike impacts 2G users, rural residents, elderly users and dual-SIM users.
Airtel announces revised prepaid mobile tariffs. (Image credit – The New Indian Express)
Bharti Airtel has rolled out new prepaid plans following a directive from the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) to offer separate voice and SMS packs. However, the revised tariffs have made all the prepaid services 10-15% more expensive for users who rely on basic phone services.
The updated Rs 509 plan is valid for 84 days and now includes unlimited voice calls and 900 SMS messages but removes the 6GB of mobile data that was previously included.
Similarly, the annual Rs 1,999 plan no longer offers the earlier 24GB of mobile data, though it still provides unlimited voice calls and 3,000 SMS messages.
TRAI mandated telecom operators to introduce special tariff vouchers that let users pay specifically for services they need such as voice or SMS without bundling unnecessary data in December 2023. Airtel’s revised plans align with this directive but at a higher cost for users.
Reports estimate that 140-150 million people in India still use 2G services including rural residents, elderly users, and dual-SIM users who don’t depend on mobile data. These users who typically rely on affordable voice and SMS services will now face higher costs for similar offerings.
This is Airtel’s second tariff increase in less than a year, which is most likely to now make other telecom operators also increase prices. For basic users, the price hike could make daily communication more expensive, especially as mobile data benefits have been excluded from these entry-level plans.
While Airtel has complied with TRAI’s directive, the changes may create challenges for customers who depend on affordable services for basic communication.
FAQs
Q1. What changes have been made to Airtel’s Rs 509 plan?
Answer. The updated Rs 509 plan now includes unlimited voice calls and 900 SMS messages but removes the 6GB of mobile data that was previously included.
Q2. What does Airtel’s Rs 1,999 plan now offer?
Answer. The annual Rs 1,999 plan no longer offers the earlier 24GB of mobile data, though it still provides unlimited voice calls and 3,000 SMS messages.
Q3. Who will be most affected by Airtel’s new tariff hike?
Answer. The tariff hike impacts 2G users, rural residents, elderly users, and dual-SIM users who rely on affordable voice and SMS services making daily communication more costly as mobile data benefits are excluded from entry-level plans.
Reliance Jio offers three value prepaid plans for 2025 worth Rs 1899, Rs 489 and Rs 189.
These plans are designed to keep your SIM active with unlimited voice calling.
Each plan includes a specific data allowance, validity periods and additional benefits like access to JioTV, JioCinema and JioCloud.
These plans are ideal for users who prioritise maintaining their connection at a minimal cost.
Caption – Reliance Jio’s Rs 1899, Rs 489 and Rs 189 plans come with truly unlimited voice calling. (Image credit – Unknown)
Reliance Jio known as India’s most affordable telecom provider will now offer three value prepaid plans in 2025. These plans are designed to keep your SIM active at minimal cost while ensuring unlimited voice calling. While they don’t include unlimited 5G or large amounts of 4G data, they’re ideal for users who prioritise keeping their connection alive without spending too much.
The three plans cost Rs 1899, Rs 489 and Rs 189, and each comes with unique benefits to suit different needs. Let’s break them down.
Plan Details and Benefits
Rs 1899 Plan
Data: 24GB
Validity: 336 days
SMS: 3600 messages
Additional Benefits: Access to JioTV, JioCinema, and JioCloud
Rs 489 Plan
Data: 6GB
Validity: 84 days
SMS: 1000 messages
Additional Benefits: Access to JioTV, JioCinema, and JioCloud
Rs 189 Plan
Data: 2GB
Validity: 28 days
SMS: 300 messages
Additional Benefits: Access to JioTV, JioCinema, and JioCloud
All three plans offer truly unlimited voice calling ensuring you stay connected without worrying about call limits.
These value prepaid plans are perfect for users who want to keep their Jio SIM active at a low cost. While they don’t provide extensive data, you can always add data boosters or packs to meet your internet needs.
With benefits like JioTV, JioCinema and JioCloud included, these plans also offer entertainment and storage options at no extra cost.
FAQs
Q1. What are the costs of Reliance Jio’s value prepaid plans for 2025?
Answer. Reliance Jio offers three value prepaid plans: Rs 1899, Rs 489 and Rs 189.
Q2. What benefits are included in the Rs 1899 plan?
Answer. The Rs 1899 plan includes 24GB of data, 336 days of validity, 3600 SMS, and access to JioTV, JioCinema and JioCloud.
Q3. What is the validity period and data allowance for the Rs 489 plan?
Answer. The Rs 489 plan offers 6GB of data and 84 days of validity.
Q4. Do Reliance Jio’s new value plans include unlimited voice calling?
Answer. Yes, all three value prepaid plans offer truly unlimited voice calling.
The Galaxy S25 series starts at Rs 80,999 with the S25+ at Rs 99,999 and the S25 Ultra at Rs 1,29,999.
All models are now available for pre-order in India.
The S25 series features a familiar look with IP68 rating, no headphone jack and different sizes.
The S25 Ultra has premium materials and additional features like Corning Gorilla Armor 2.
All models boast the Snapdragon 8 Elite processor and 12GB RAM.
The battery capacities remain unchanged but offer improved battery life and charging rates.
Samsung Galaxy S25 Series has been launched officially. (Image credit – Samsung)
Samsung has launched its new Galaxy S25 lineup which includes the Galaxy S25, the Galaxy S25+ and the Galaxy S25 Ultra. While the design and pricing are somewhat similar compared to the previous-gen Galaxy S24 series, there are some notable differences in features and performance to help you decide which one suits you best. Here’s everything you need to know about the new lineup.
“Samsung unveiled the era of mobile AI with the launch of Galaxy AI last year. We are now opening the next chapter of Galaxy Al with the Galaxy S25 series, your true AI companion. Galaxy S25 series brings you the most context-aware, personalised AI yet so that you can receive tailored, actionable insights with personal privacy assured. I am happy to share that the new Galaxy S25 series will be manufactured at our Noida factory,” said JB Park, President and CEO of Samsung Southwest Asia.
Samsung Galaxy S25 VS Galaxy S25+ VS Galaxy S25 Ultra – Price
Meanwhile, the price of model Galaxy S25+ and Galaxy S25 Ultra starts at Rs 99,999 and 1,29,999 respectively. All three smartphones are now available for pre-order in India.
Samsung Galaxy S25 Series pricing and variant details. (Image credit – Samsung)
Samsung Galaxy S25 VS Galaxy S25+ VS Galaxy S25 Ultra – Design
The Galaxy S25 series sticks to a familiar look with rounded corners, though the Ultra’s curves are sharper.
Sizes vary across the models:
Galaxy S25: The smallest, measuring 5.78 x 2.78 x 0.28 inches and weighing 5.71 ounces.
Galaxy S25+: Slightly larger at 6.24 x 2.98 x 0.29 inches, weighing 6.70 ounces.
Galaxy S25 Ultra: The largest at 6.41 x 3.06 x 0.32 inches, weighing 7.69 ounces.
All models share an IP68 water and dust resistance rating and lack a headphone jack or expandable storage. The Ultra retains the embedded S Pen but drops its Bluetooth functionality, so features like Air Actions and remote camera shutter are no longer available.
The Ultra also introduces anti-reflective Corning Gorilla Armor 2 for its front glass, offering 29% better fracture resistance, while Gorilla Glass Victus 2 protects the backs of the Ultra, S25 and S25+. The frame materials differ: the Ultra uses titanium, while the S25 and S25+ feature Armor Aluminum.
Colour options include Icyblue, Mint, Navy, and Silver Shadow with exclusive online colours like Coralred and Pinkgold. The Ultra has premium shades like Titanium Black and Titanium Jadegreen.
Samsung Galaxy S25 VS Galaxy S25+ VS Galaxy S25 Ultra – Display
All models use Dynamic AMOLED 2X displays with a 120Hz refresh rate and 2,600 nits peak brightness ensuring excellent visibility in sunlight. The sizes and resolutions are as follows:
Galaxy S25: 6.2-inch (2,340 x 1,080).
Galaxy S25+: 6.7-inch (3,120 x 1,440).
Galaxy S25 Ultra: Now 6.9 inches (up from 6.8), maintaining 3,120 x 1,440 resolution.
Samsung’s Pro Scaler technology upscales content resolution, especially noticeable on the S25+ and Ultra, though this feature can’t be turned off.
Samsung Galaxy S25 VS Galaxy S25+ VS Galaxy S25 Ultra – Performance
All three models are equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy processor offering 40% faster NPU performance for AI tasks, 37% improved CPU speeds and 30% better GPU performance.
The vapour chambers for cooling are larger with a 40% increase in the Ultra and 15% in the S25 and S25+. Globally, all models feature the Snapdragon Elite 8, breaking from Samsung’s past use of Exynos chips in some regions.
The phones come with 12GB RAM. Storage options are:
Galaxy S25: 128GB or 256GB.
Galaxy S25+: 256GB or 512GB.
Galaxy S25 Ultra: 256GB, 512GB, or 1TB.
Samsung Galaxy S25 VS Galaxy S25+ VS Galaxy S25 Ultra – Cameras
The S25 and S25+ retain the same camera setup as their S24 counterparts, which features –
50MP main camera with OIS.
12MP ultra-wide camera.
10MP telephoto camera with 3x optical zoom and 30x Space Zoom.
The Ultra brings upgrades:
200MP main camera.
50MP ultra-wide camera (up from 12MP).
High-resolution macro photography with the ultra-wide lens.
Enhanced ProVisual Engine with features like HDR portraits, Log video capture, and colour correction.
All models support 8K video recording at 30fps and 4K recording at 60fps for the front camera.
Samsung Galaxy S25 VS Galaxy S25+ VS Galaxy S25 Ultra – Battery and Charging
Battery capacities of all models in the Samsung Galaxy S25 Series remain unchanged. However, thanks to the Snapdragon Elite 8 and One UI 7, battery life has improved despite the same capacities. Model-wise battery capacity is as follows –
Galaxy S25: 4,000mAh.
Galaxy S25+: 4,900mAh.
Galaxy S25 Ultra: 5,000mAh.
Charging rates are:
Galaxy S25: 25W wired, 15W wireless.
S25+ and Ultra: 45W wired, 15W wireless.
All models support Wireless Power Share and are “Qi2 ready,” though a magnetized case is needed for Qi2-compatible chargers.
FAQs
Q1. What are the starting prices of the Samsung Galaxy S25 series?
Answer. The Galaxy S25 series starts at Rs 80,999, with the S25+ at Rs 99,999 and the S25 Ultra at Rs 1,29,999. All three smartphones are now available for pre-order in India.
Q2. What are the design differences among the Galaxy S25, S25+ and S25 Ultra?
Answer. The Galaxy S25 series features rounded corners with the Ultra’s curves being sharper. The S25 is the smallest, the S25+ is slightly larger, and the S25 Ultra is the largest with premium materials like titanium. All models have an IP68 rating, no headphone jack, and no expandable storage.
Q3. What display technologies are used in the Samsung Galaxy S25 series?
Answer. All models use Dynamic AMOLED 2X displays with a 120Hz refresh rate and 2,600 nits peak brightness.
Q4. What are the camera specifications for the Galaxy S25, S25+ and S25 Ultra?
Answer. The S25 and S25+ have a 50MP main camera with OIS, 12MP ultra-wide camera, and 10MP telephoto camera with 3x optical zoom and 30x Space Zoom. The S25 Ultra features a 200MP main camera, 50MP ultra-wide camera, and enhanced camera features like HDR portraits and Log video capture.
Q5. What are the battery capacities and charging rates of the Samsung Galaxy S25 series?
Answer. Battery capacities are as follows: Galaxy S25 has 4,000mAh, S25+ has 4,900mAh, and S25 Ultra has 5,000mAh. Charging rates are: Galaxy S25 supports 25W wired and 15W wireless charging, while the S25+ and Ultra support 45W wired and 15W wireless charging. All models support Wireless Power Share and are “Qi2 ready.”
Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 and Buds 3 Pro were launched last July with bold redesign moving away from the rounded look of earlier generations. The new design features a stem while the Samsung Buds 3 Pro also includes a unique light strip that sets it apart from competitors like AirPods. However, if you thought Samsung was done experimenting with earbud design for now, you were wrong. It appears Samsung isn’t stopping and is reportedly working on an even more groundbreaking upgrade.
According to a recent report by Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Samsung plans to add cameras to its Galaxy Buds. Yes, you heard it right! If everything goes right, we will soon have cameras in earbuds.
This feature would bring new capabilities to the earbuds while still delivering the high-quality audio experience Samsung is known for.
However, no matter how futuristic this sounds, the idea of putting cameras in earbuds isn’t entirely new.
Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 Pro comes with a unique light strip. (Image credit – Samsung)
Apple is also rumoured to be exploring similar functionality for its upcoming AirPods Pro 3, which is expected to launch this fall. Gurman didn’t share details about Samsung’s specific plans for these camera-enabled earbuds, but there’s speculation based on what competitors are doing.
Apple is reportedly looking to use IR cameras in its earbuds to enable in-air gesture controls improving how users interact with devices.
Moreover, Samsung and Apple aren’t the only companies pursuing this innovation. Meta is also working on wireless earbuds with cameras rumoured to be called “Camera Buds.” These earbuds might let users “look at an object and ask the earbuds to analyze the item.”
However, Meta has faced challenges with its prototypes such as poor viewing angles and issues for users with long hair. Adding cameras also means higher power and processing requirements, which can complicate the design.
Although details about Samsung’s approach are currently limited, tech enthusiasts and experts online predict their camera-equipped Galaxy Buds could include features like object recognition or gesture controls. Blogger Sammobile has even speculated that these earbuds might act as a “stop-gap alternative to smart glasses.”
There’s no word yet on when Samsung’s camera-enabled Galaxy Buds will launch. As of now, it seems the product is still in development and we might see them on the shelves in the near future.
FAQs
Q1. What new feature is Samsung planning to add to its Galaxy Buds?
Answer. Samsung plans to add cameras to its Galaxy Buds, bringing new capabilities while still delivering the high-quality audio experience Samsung is known for.
Q2. Are other companies working on similar camera-enabled earbud technologies?
Answer. Yes, Apple and Meta are also exploring similar functionalities for their earbuds, with Apple rumoured to include IR cameras for gesture controls and Meta working on “Camera Buds.”
Q3. When will Samsung’s camera-enabled Galaxy Buds be available?
Answer. There’s no word yet on the launch date for Samsung’s camera-enabled Galaxy Buds. As of now, the product is still in development and might be seen on the shelves in the near future.
After months of speculations and rumours, Samsung has officially unveiled the ultra-slim Galaxy S25 Edge at the recent Galaxy Unpacked event. While earlier rumours suggested it might be called the Galaxy S25 Slim, Samsung confirmed the “Edge” branding instead reminding everyone of its earlier curved-display designs.
In an interview with Bloomberg, President of Samsung’s Mobile Devices Business TM Roh elaborated on the idea of the Galaxy S25 Edge. “The Edge will use some of the same technologies as the new Ultra model, but fit them inside a slimmed-down design. Customers want the “best performance, the best camera features, the best AI, but at the same time they want an even more attractive form factor that stands out among the pack,” Roh said in the interview.
“We’ve been trying to combine all the advantages of the S25 Ultra in a slimmer form factor. [….]Our goal is to position this at pricing that is lower than the Ultra models, so it’s more accessible and has more customers,” Roh further said.
Here’s everything we know about this new variant.
Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge – Design
The Galaxy S25 Edge is set to launch in the first half of this year with Samsung emphasising its ultra-slim design. At a rumoured thickness of just 6.4mm, it stands out as one of the thinnest smartphones in the industry. Unlike the standard Galaxy S25 models, the Edge features a minimalist design with a dual-camera setup, deviating from the triple-camera systems of the S25 and S25+.
Samsung’s focus on the Galaxy S25 Edge’s slim form appears to be a direct response to Apple’s rumoured iPhone 17 Air, which is also expected to feature an ultra-thin profile.
The Korean company aims to offer a compelling choice for design-conscious consumers who don’t want to compromise on performance by combining sleek aesthetics with functionality.
Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge – Pricing and Launch Timeline
The Galaxy S25 Edge will reportedly sit between the Galaxy S25+ and the S25 Ultra in terms of pricing, coming in below the $1,299 Ultra model.
Industry insider Mark Gurman has hinted that the Edge will launch globally including in the US during the first half of the year.
Samung Galaxy S25 Series – Highlights
During the event, Samsung also introduced the Galaxy S25, S25+ and S25 Ultra. Key features of the lineup include the following –
AI-Powered One UI 7 – Enhancing usability with smarter tools.
Improved Cameras – The S25 Ultra boasts a 200MP camera and 6.9-inch display, while the S25 and S25+ feature smaller screens with slightly lower specs.
Durability and Sustainability – Better thermal efficiency, sustainable materials, and long-term software support.
Battery Life – A 5,000mAh battery for the Ultra ensures all-day power.
FAQs
Q1. What is the Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge?
Answer. The Galaxy S25 Edge is an ultra-slim smartphone officially unveiled by Samsung at the recent Galaxy Unpacked event featuring a minimalist design with a thickness of just 6.4mm and a dual-camera setup.
Q2. Why did Samsung focus on a slim form factor for the Galaxy S25 Edge?
Answer. Samsung’s focus on the Galaxy S25 Edge’s slim form is a direct response to Apple’s rumoured iPhone 17 Air, which is also expected to feature an ultra-thin profile.
Q3. When will the Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge be available?
Answer. The Galaxy S25 Edge is expected to launch globally including in the US during the first half of the year.
Q4. What will the price range of the upcoming Galaxy S25 Edge be?
Answer. As per reports, it will be positioned between the Galaxy S25+ and the S25 Ultra in terms of pricing coming in below the $1,299 Ultra model.
HMD Global has started rolling out the Android 15 update for the HMD Skyline.
It is the second HMD device to receive this update following the Pulse Pro.
The update brings standard Android 15 features such as performance boosts, privacy and security upgrades, adaptive battery improvements and advanced notification control.
The update is rolling out in phases starting with users in Finland.
It requires at least 3.3 GB of free storage for installation.
HMD Skyline becomes the second HMD Global phone to receive an Android 15 update. (Image credit – HMD Global)
HMD Global has started rolling out the Android 15 update for its mid-range phone the HMD Skyline. This makes it the second device from the Finnish company to receive the update following last year’s launch of Android 15 on the Pulse Pro. Here’s what we know so far.
Android 15 Update On HMD Skyline
Although HMD hasn’t made an official announcement, YTECHB reports that Skyline users in Finland are now eligible for the update. The upgrade is a hefty one requiring at least 3.3 GB of free storage, so make sure you have enough space before proceeding.
As with most major updates, the rollout is happening in phases. So even if you’re in Finland, you might not see the update on your HMD Skyline immediately.
The update primarily brings standard Android 15 features rather than exclusive enhancements for HMD devices. Here’s what you can expect:
Performance Boost – Enjoy faster app launch times, reduced lag and better battery life, thanks to optimized system performance.
Privacy and Security Upgrades – Stronger app permissions, automatic permission resets and improved data encryption provide top-notch privacy protection.
Adaptive Battery Improvements – Smarter power management extends battery life by learning your usage patterns and allocating resources efficiently.
Advanced Notification Control – A refined notification system lets you control which apps and events can send alerts helping you stay focused and minimize distractions.
In addition to these Android 15 features, HMD has included the December 2024 security patch in this update.
HMD has been relatively slow in upgrading its devices to Android 15, but this latest update shows progress. With the Skyline now receiving Android 15, more HMD devices are likely to follow in the coming weeks.
FAQs
Q1. Which HMD phone has recently started receiving the Android 15 update?
Answer. HMD Global has started rolling out the Android 15 update for the HMD Skyline.
Q2. What are the key new features in the Android 15 update for the HMD Skyline?
Answer. The update brings performance boosts, privacy and security upgrades, adaptive battery improvements and advanced notification control.
Q3. How is the Android 15 update being rolled out for the HMD Skyline?
Answer. The update is rolling out in phases, starting with users in Finland, and requires at least 3.3 GB of free storage for installation.
Instagram temporarily blocked searches for several political hashtags including #democrats and #republicans citing “sensitive content.”
Meta spokesperson Andy Stone attributed the issue to an unspecified error clarifying it wasn’t politically motivated.
Previously Instagram has blocked hashtags involving LGBTQ and #blacklivesmatter content without clear explanation.
Screenshot of blocked hashtags on Instagram. (Screenshot credit – YahooTech)
Instagram temporarily blocked searches for several political hashtags including #democrats, #democrat, #jan6th and #republicans among others. Users trying to search for these tags were shown a message saying, “We’ve hidden these results because they may contain sensitive content.”
The exact number of affected hashtags is unclear, but users on Reddit reported that dozens of terms were unsearchable. Interestingly, there was inconsistency in the blocks. For example, #republicans was affected, but #republican remained viewable. Other tags like #constitution, #johnoliver and #queer were also reported as unviewable.
Reddit post about the issue.
A Meta spokesperson Andy Stone attributed the issue to an unspecified error and said the company was working on a fix. He clarified on Threads that the problem wasn’t politically motivated, stating it impacted “a number of different hashtags on Instagram—not just those on the left.”
View on Threads
This happened just days after Mark Zuckerberg’s attendance at President Donald Trump’s inauguration, fueling speculation about political bias. This was further amplified by Meta’s recent moves to end fact-checking programs, relax content moderation standards against dehumanizing language and close its corporate diversity initiatives.
Despite these concerns, Stone emphasised that the problem was not targeted and appeared to be a broader technical issue.
This isn’t the first instance of Instagram blocking hashtags without a clear explanation. Earlier this year, Meta blocked hashtags related to LGBTQ content labelling them as “sensitive.” The company later called it an error, stating, “We do not consider LGBTQ+ terms to be sensitive under our policies.”
In 2020, Instagram temporarily stopped users from sharing posts with #blacklivesmatter blaming its spam detection systems for the mistake.
Most of the blocked hashtags now appear to be restored but Meta hasn’t provided any details on what caused the issue.
FAQs
Q1. Why did Instagram block searches for certain political hashtags?
Answer. Instagram temporarily blocked searches for several political hashtags, citing “sensitive content.”
Q2. Was the blocking of hashtags politically motivated?
Answer. No, Meta spokesperson Andy Stone attributed the issue to an unspecified error and clarified it wasn’t politically motivated.
Q3. Has Instagram blocked hashtags before without a clear explanation?
Answer. Yes, Instagram has previously blocked hashtags related to LGBTQ content and #blacklivesmatter, attributing these actions to errors.
Meta is working on multiple smart glasses models including Supernova, Supernova 2 for athletes, Hypernova and the first true AR glasses Artemis by 2027.
It is also exploring wrist controllers for smart glasses and developing Camerabuds.
Meta launched a breakthrough bonus program offering up to $5,000 to TikTok creators for posting original content on Facebook and Instagram.
Meta reportedly working on new smart glasses. (Image credit – Meta)
Meta has been innovating in both hardware and social media spaces in recent years. A new report from Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman reveals Meta’s ambitious plans for augmented reality (AR) glasses. According to sources cited by Gurman, Meta is working on at least three new smart glasses models and progressing toward its first true AR glasses, which could arrive as early as 2027.
Here’s what’s in the pipeline.
Supernova and Supernova 2 – Meta’s existing smart glasses made in partnership with Ray-Ban, will expand to new markets. The Supernova 2 will be inspired by Oakley’s Sphaera glasses and target cyclists and athletes with a central camera design. Brands like Luxottica Group will also apply Meta’s tech.
Hypernova – This advanced model will offer simple software apps, notifications, and photo displays, moving closer to a full AR experience. Expected to cost around $1,000, it highlights Meta’s push toward premium features.
Artemis (2027) – Meta plans to release its first true AR glasses under the codename Artemis. These glasses will be lighter and more advanced than the earlier Orion prototype, which is not expected to see a commercial release.
Other hardware developments include:
Wrist Controllers – Meta is exploring a wrist strap to control smart glasses, a shift from the current temple-based controls.
Camerabuds – Meta continues to develop earbuds with cameras to rival Apple’s AirPods, although these remain in early stages due to development challenges.
Meta’s Push to Attract TikTok Creators
Meta’s new breakthrough bonus program offers up to $5,000 to creators. (SOPA Images via Getty Images)
Meanwhile, Meta is ramping up its efforts to draw creators from TikTok launching a new “breakthrough bonus program”. According to media reports, the initiative offers up to $5,000 to eligible creators who post original content on Facebook and Instagram.
Key details about the program are as follows –
Eligibility – Open to US adults with a presence on third-party apps who create a professional account on Instagram and a Facebook page.
Requirements – Creators must post:
20 Reels on Facebook and 10 Reels on Instagram natively within each app every 30 days.
Content on at least 10 separate days during each 30-day bonus period.
Earnings: Payments capped at $5,000 over 90 days will depend on Meta’s evaluation of a creator’s social presence.
The program also encourages creators to use Facebook more heavily by requiring twice as many Reels on Facebook as Instagram signalling Meta’s push for original content on the platform.
The tech giant is also offering additional incentives including –
A free one-year trial subscription to Meta Verified, which includes a blue check and impersonation protection.
Longer Instagram Reels (now up to three minutes) and redesigned Instagram grids.
For high-profile creators, Meta is striking larger content deals with some TikTok stars reportedly being offered up to $50,000 per month for prioritising Reels.
FAQs
Q1. What are Meta’s plans for augmented reality (AR) glasses?
Answer. Meta is working on multiple smart glasses models, including Supernova, Supernova 2, Hypernova, and the first true AR glasses Artemis expected by 2027.
Q2. What incentives is Meta offering to attract TikTok creators?
Answer. Meta launched a “breakthrough bonus program” offering up to $5,000 to eligible creators who post original content on Facebook and Instagram, along with additional incentives like a free one-year trial of Meta Verified.
Q3. What other hardware developments is Meta exploring?
Answer. Meta is exploring wrist controllers for smart glasses and developing Camerabuds, which are earbuds with cameras to compete with Apple’s AirPods.
New Plans – Standard with Ads plan – $7.99/month, Standard without Ads – $17.99/month and Premium – $24.99/month.
Each plan offers different features such as ad-supported streaming, ad-free access, multi-device streaming and enhanced audio and video quality.
Netflix also reported strong Q4 2024 earnings and a $15 billion share buyback program.
Netflix announces price hike across all plans. (Photo by freestocks on Unsplash)
Netflix has announced another price hike for its streaming plans. Subscribers will now have to pay more for all three tiers with the cheapest plan now costing $7.99 per month and the Premium 4K plan priced at $24.99 per month.
Here’s everything you need to know about the price hike.
New Netflix Pricing –
Standard with Ads: $7.99/month (up from $6.99)
Standard without Ads: $17.99/month (up from $15.49)
Premium: $24.99/month (up from $22.99)
These changes affect subscribers in the United States, Canada, Portugal and Argentina.
Netflix explained in a letter to shareholders that the price hike will help fund its programming and investments in content. The company wrote, “As we continue to invest in programming and deliver more value for our members, we will occasionally ask our members to pay a little more so that we can re-invest to further improve Netflix. To that end, we are adjusting prices today across most plans in the US, Canada, Portugal and Argentina.”
On the same day it announced the price increase, Netflix reported impressive Q4 2024 earnings:
9 million new subscribers (beating the forecast of 9.6 million) bringing the total to 302 million paid subscribers globally.
Revenue: $10.25 billion (above the $10.11 billion estimate).
Earnings per Share: $4.28 (higher than the expected $4.20).
Netflix also announced a $15 billion share buyback program.
The current price hike comes a year after Netflix’s last increase in October 2023, when the Premium plan rose from $19.99 to $22.99. Around the same time, Netflix also discontinued its ad-free Basic plan, raising the starting price for ad-free streaming to $15.49, and now to $17.99.
With over 302 million subscribers and continued growth, Netflix’s latest price changes reflect its strategy to invest in more content while maintaining its leadership in the streaming market.
Netflix Plan – Breakdown
Here’s what you get with each Netflix plan:
Standard with Ads ($7.99/month):
Includes ads.
Access to all mobile games and most TV shows and movies (some titles will have a lock icon).
Watch and download on 2 devices at a time in 1080p Full HD.
Standard without Ads ($17.99/month):
No ads, unlimited access to TV shows, movies and mobile games.
Watch and download on 2 devices at a time in 1080p Full HD.
Option to add 1 extra member who doesn’t live with you.
Premium ($24.99/month):
No ads, unlimited content and Netflix spatial audio for enhanced sound quality.
Watch and download on 4 devices at a time in 4K Ultra HD + HDR.
Option to add up to 2 extra members who don’t live with you.
FAQs
Q1. What are the new prices for Netflix’s streaming plans?
Answer. The new prices are $7.99/month for Standard with Ads, $17.99/month for Standard without Ads and $24.99/month for Premium.
Q2. Why has Netflix increased its prices?
Answer. Netflix explained that the price hike will help fund its programming and investments in content, aiming to deliver more value for its members.
Q3. Which regions are affected by the Netflix price increase?
Answer. The price increase affects subscribers in the United States, Canada, Portugal, and Argentina.
Q4. What features are included in Netflix’s Premium plan?
Answer. The Premium plan includes no ads, unlimited content, Netflix spatial audio, 4K Ultra HD + HDR streaming, and the option to add up to 2 extra members who don’t live with you.
