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YouTube Users Report Seeing 3 Hours Long Un-Skippable Ads, YouTube Confirms It’s Not a Glitch

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Highlights

  • YouTube users report seeing unusually long, unskippable ads lasting from 57 minutes to 3 hours.
  • These long unskippable ads are reportedly targeting users who are using ad blockers.
  • YouTube confirms this is not a glitch and regular users can skip ads after 15 seconds.
  • Ad-blocking users face these long ads to enforce YouTube’s Terms of Use.
  • YouTube encourages users to disable ad blockers or subscribe to YouTube Premium for an ad-free experience.
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It is getting more and more difficult to skip YouTube ads. (Photo by Szabo Viktor on Unsplash)

It appears YouTube’s crackdown on users who use adblockers to enjoy ad-free content without a Premium subscription is getting serious. Some YouTube users on Reddit are reporting seeing unusually long, unskippable ads lasting anywhere from 57 minutes to a shocking 3 hours.

Screenshots shared on Reddit even show ads longer than the videos themselves leaving many users frustrated and wondering if this is a glitch or an intentional move by YouTube.

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A YouTube user’s post on Reddit.
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Another user posted on Reddit complaining about getting ads on every minute of streaming.

Some users noticed that the usual “Skip Ad” button was missing, while others found it appearing below the video instead of in the usual spot. This has led to speculation that adblockers might be interfering with how ads are displayed, potentially hiding the skip option or affecting ad duration.

YouTube Confirms 3 Hours Unskippable Ads Are Not A Glitch

YouTube confirmed that these long ads primarily target users with ad blockers. According to the company, regular users still have the option to skip ads after 15 seconds. YouTube also reiterated that ads help support content creators and that using ad blockers violates its Terms of Use.

“YouTube does not serve minutes-long, non-skippable ads,” said YouTube Communications Manager Oluwa Falodun while speaking to The Verge. Blaming the adblockers, Falodun further explained, “Viewers with ad blockers may experience a suboptimal viewing experience as some ad blockers distort the YouTube playback experience.”

The platform encourages users to either disable their ad blockers or subscribe to YouTube Premium for an ad-free experience.

YouTube’s Crackdown on Ad Blockers

YouTube has been ramping up its efforts against ad blockers in several ways including the following –

  • Inserting ads when users pause videos.
  • Slowing down YouTube for those with ad blockers.
  • Limiting video views for ad-blocking users.
  • Displaying pop-ups promoting YouTube Premium.

Reddit users have shared extreme cases with ads reported to be as long as 10 hours. One unverified claim even mentioned a 90-hour-long ad. A particularly frustrating case involved a 2-hour 52-minute ad before a 49-minute video. These reports have only added to speculation that adblockers may be affecting ad behaviour, causing longer and unskippable ads.

What Did Google Say?

Google confirmed that regular users typically see un-skippable ads of up to 15 seconds on mobile and 60 seconds on TV. However, they admitted that long ads specifically target ad-blocking users as part of a broader effort to curb ad evasion.

YouTube made it clear that users must either watch ads or pay for YouTube Premium hinting at even stricter measures in the future for persistent ad-blocking users.

FAQs

Q1. What are some YouTube users experiencing with ads?

Answer. Some YouTube users are reporting unusually long, un-skippable ads lasting from 57 minutes to 3 hours.

Q2. Why are some YouTube users seeing long unskippable ads?

Answer. YouTube confirmed that these long ads primarily target users with ad blockers. Regular users can skip ads after 15 seconds while ad-blocking users face longer ads as part of YouTube’s efforts to curb ad evasion.

Q3. What can users do to avoid long un-skippable ads on YouTube?

Answer. YouTube encourages users to either disable their ad blockers or subscribe to YouTube Premium for an ad-free experience.

Read More: YouTube Targets Ad Blockers with Video Skipping Glitch, Users Report Issues

Read More: Reddit Users Report Spotify Shuffle Feature Isn’t Shuffling, Repeats Same Tracks

Instagram Gives Creators More Tools to Track Reel Performance

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Highlights

  • Instagram introduces new insights for Reels to help creators understand their performance.
  • New tools include metrics like “View Rate” and “Views Over Time.”
  • Also introduces personalised performance tips and additional tools to provide creators with actionable insights to improve engagement.
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Instagram adds new tools for Creators. (Photo by Souvik Banerjee on Unsplash)

It is no secret that Meta has been actively working to attract TikTok creators since the whole TikTok ban drama started. In the latest development, Instagram is now making it easier for creators to understand how their Reels are performing. Here’s what we know.

The platform announced on its official Creators handle that is introducing new insights to help creators see what kind of content connects best with their audience.

 

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A post shared by Instagram’s @Creators (@creators)

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Instagram’s new View Rate metrics. (Images credit – Meta)

One of the new tools is the “View Rate” metric, which shows what percentage of viewers including followers and non-followers continue watching a video after the first three seconds. Instagram emphasises that the first few seconds are crucial as grabbing attention early increases the chances of viewers watching the full video.

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Instagram’s new Views Over Time metrics. (Images credit – Meta)

Another new feature, “Views Over Time,” lets creators track how many views their Reel has received compared to their usual performance. This breakdown includes separate insights for followers and non-followers helping creators see where their audience engagement is coming from.

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Instagram adds Tips for creators. (Images credit – Meta)

Beyond these metrics, Instagram will now provide personalised performance tips. If a Reel is doing significantly better than usual, Instagram might suggest making more content like it. For example, a message could say: “This reel is doing great! It got 20% more views than the average of your recent reels. Create more reels like this.”

Instagram’s latest updates come as the platform aggressively targets TikTok creators. In addition to offering bonuses and content deals, Instagram is positioning itself as the go-to platform for short-form video content.

With TikTok still missing from U.S. app stores after briefly going offline for 12 hours last week, Instagram is seizing the opportunity to attract more creators and viewers.

FAQs

Q1. What is the new “View Rate” metric on Instagram Reels?

Answer. The “View Rate” metric shows what percentage of viewers including followers and non-followers, continue watching a video after the first three seconds. Instagram emphasises that the first few seconds are crucial as grabbing attention early increases the chances of viewers watching the full video.

Q2. How does the “Views Over Time” feature help creators on Instagram?

Answer. The “Views Over Time” feature lets creators track how many views their Reel has received compared to their usual performance. This breakdown includes separate insights for followers and non-followers, helping creators see where their audience engagement is coming from.

Q3. What personalised performance tips does Instagram provide to creators?

Answer. Instagram will now provide personalised performance tips. If a Reel is doing significantly better than usual, Instagram might suggest making more content like it. For example, a message could say: “This reel is doing great! It got 20% more views than the average of your recent reels. Create more reels like this.”

Read More: Meta AI Will Now Use Your Facebook and Instagram Activity for Smarter Recommendations

WhatsApp to Stop Working on Older iPhones from May 2025

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Highlights

  • WhatsApp will stop supporting iPhones with iOS versions earlier than 15.1 starting May 5, 2025.
  • It will affect older models like the iPhone 5S, iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus.
  • Beta testers might face issues earlier as the latest Beta version (25.2.10.72) doesn’t work on iOS versions below 15.1.
  • Options for users include upgrading to a newer iPhone, finding alternative messaging apps or delaying app updates.
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WhatsApp will no longer support older iPhones. (Photo by Christian Wiediger on Unsplash)

If you’re using an older iPhone, you might soon lose access to WhatsApp this year. WhatsApp will no longer support iPhones running iOS versions earlier than 15.1 starting from May 5, 2025. This means you won’t receive app updates, new features or security patches. Eventually, the app may stop working altogether.

This change will primarily affect older models like the iPhone 5s, iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus.

Moreover, Beta testers using WhatsApp via TestFlight could be affected even before that. According to WABetaInfo, the latest beta version (25.2.10.72) already doesn’t work on iOS versions below 15.1.

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WhatsApp Beta. (Image credit – WABetaInfo)

Here’s what you can do.

No WhatsApp Support For Older iPhones – Here’s What To Do

Stop Using WhatsApp

If your iPhone doesn’t support iOS 15.1 or later and you don’t plan to upgrade, you will eventually lose access to WhatsApp. The app may stop working after May 5 and you won’t be able to send or receive messages. You may need to consider alternative messaging apps that still support older devices.

Delay Updating The App (Not Recommended)

Some users might try to keep using the last working version of WhatsApp by avoiding app updates. However, this is risky since your phone will miss out on critical security fixes, making it vulnerable to potential threats like hacking and data breaches.

Over time, older versions of WhatsApp may also lose access to essential services, leading to crashes or login issues.

Upgrade to a Newer iPhone

The most viable option for you is to switch to an iPhone that supports iOS 15.1 or later versions. This will ensure you continue receiving WhatsApp updates, security patches and new features. Moreover, upgrading to a new iPhone will also help keep your device secure and compatible with other apps as many developers gradually phase out support for older operating systems.

FAQs

Q1. What will happen to WhatsApp on older iPhones starting May 5, 2025?

Answer. WhatsApp will no longer support iPhones running iOS versions earlier than 15.1. This means users won’t receive app updates, new features, or security patches, and eventually, the app may stop working altogether.

Q2. Which iPhone models are primarily affected by this change?

Answer. Older models like the iPhone 5s, iPhone 6, and iPhone 6 Plus will be primarily affected by this change.

Q3. What are the recommended options for users with older iPhones?

Answer. Users can upgrade to a newer iPhone that supports iOS 15.1 or later, find alternative messaging apps, or delay app updates (though this last option is not recommended due to security risks).

Read More: WhatsApp to Stop Support for Older iPhone and Android Devices

Amazon Fraud Case – FIR Filed Against 22 Ex-Employees Over ₹102 Crore US Truck Data Scam

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Highlights

  • A case has been registered against 22 former Amazon employees in Telangana.
  • The case is for a ₹102 crore fraud involving the manipulation of freight assignments for bribes.
  • Amazon’s internal investigation revealed that employees assigned fraudulent bobtail tasks to US carriers.
  • The accused took bribes ranging from $5 to $500 per assignment or up to $2,000 monthly.
  • All have been charged under various legal sections after Amazon’s complaint led to the registration of an FIR.
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FIR against 22 Amazon ex-employees. (Photo by Christian Wiediger on Unsplash)

Telangana’s Cyber Security Bureau has registered a case against 22 former employees of Amazon Development Centre (India) Pvt Ltd for their involvement in a ₹102 crore fraud. Most of the accused are from Hyderabad, Sangareddy, Karimnagar in Telangana and Vizianagaram, East Godavari and Visakhapatnam in Andhra Pradesh. A few are also from Bhubaneswar, Odisha.

The accused were employed at Amazon’s Relay Operations Centre (ROC) in Nanakramguda, which manages freight operations across multiple countries. According to Amazon’s complaint, they took bribes to manipulate freight assignments, benefiting certain third-party carriers in the US.

Amazon’s Investigation Findings

Amazon’s internal probe, which started on April 30, 2022, found that the two transport specialists at the ROC illegally assigned “bobtails” to US carriers for bribes. Bobtailing refers to empty trucks moving without a trailer between facilities, typically under strict conditions. The accused manipulated this system to assign fraudulent bobtails leading to unauthorised payments.

Further investigation uncovered 18 more employees involved in the fraud, who accepted bribes between $5 and $500 per assignment or monthly payments of up to $2,000.

The employees exploited Amazon’s freight management system (FMC) to rig data and bypass approvals, making it seem like these fake assignments were legitimate. Some employees confessed to their involvement during internal disciplinary proceedings.

The accused have been charged under various sections of the IPC, IT Act and other relevant laws.

Amazon initially filed a private complaint after Gachibowli PS and Cyberabad police’s economic offences wing refused to register an FIR. The Kukatpally court directed the police to file a case, leading to the FIR being transferred to the Telangana State Cyber Security Bureau on January 22.

FAQs

Q1. What is the fraud case involving former Amazon employees in Telangana?

Answer. The fraud involves 22 former Amazon Development Centre employees who manipulated freight assignments for bribes, resulting in a ₹102 crore scam. Most of the accused are from Telangana and Andhra Pradesh.

Q2. How did the former Amazon employees carry out the fraudulent activities?

Answer. The employees at Amazon’s Relay Operations Centre took bribes to assign fraudulent “bobtails” to US carriers, manipulating the freight management system to make these fake assignments appear legitimate. They accepted bribes ranging from $5 to $500 per assignment or monthly payments of up to $2,000.

Q3. What actions have been taken against the 22 former Amazon employees accused of fraud?

Answer. The accused have been charged under various sections of the IPC, IT Act, and other relevant laws. Following Amazon’s complaint and a court directive, the FIR was registered and transferred to the Telangana State Cyber Security Bureau.

Read More: Like a Video and Make Money Scam: All About the Cyber Fraud on WhatsApp

iPhone 15 Available for Just ₹29,700 on Amazon – Here’s How to Get the Deal

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Highlights

  • iPhone 15 (128GB, Blue) is available on Amazon for as low as ₹29,700 with combined offers.
  • The offers include a 25% discount, exchange offer and credit card discount.
  • Exchange offers for an iPhone 14 Plus (512GB) in good condition can reduce the price by up to ₹27,300.
  • Customers can also use an Amazon Pay ICICI Bank credit card gives an additional ₹2,999 off.
  • iPhone 15 features – a 6.1-inch display with Dynamic Island, 48MP primary sensor, A16 Bionic chip, and USB Type-C port.
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iPhone 15. (Image credit – Apple)

If you’ve been waiting for the right time to buy the iPhone 15, this might be it! Thanks to a massive discount on Amazon, you can grab the iPhone 15 (128GB, Blue) for as low as ₹29,700 with the right offers.

Amazon Deal Breakdown

The iPhone 15 (128GB, Blue) was originally priced at ₹79,900 but Amazon has slashed 25% off, which brings the price down to ₹59,999.

Here’s how you can save even more –

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Exchange offer can get you up to INR 27,300 discount. (Image credit – ToI)
  • Exchange Offer – If you trade in an iPhone 14 Plus (512GB) in good condition, you can get up to ₹27,300 off, reducing the price to ₹32,699.
  • Credit Card Discount – Using an Amazon Pay ICICI Bank credit card gets you an extra ₹2,999 off, dropping the price to ₹29,700.

With these combined offers, you’re getting the iPhone 15 at a fraction of its original cost!

iPhone 15 Features

  • Display & Design – 1-inch screen, available in pink, yellow, green, blue and black colours. Features Dynamic Island replacing the traditional notch.
  • Camera Upgrade – 48MP primary sensor, delivering better low-light, daylight and portrait shots.
  • Battery Life – Apple claims “all-day battery life” with real-world usage suggesting over 9 hours on a single charge.
  • Performance – Powered by the A16 Bionic chip, an upgrade over the A15 in previous models.
  • Charging Port – Now features a USB Type-C port replacing the Lightning connector for universal compatibility.

With Amazon’s discount, exchange offer, and bank discounts, this is one of the lowest prices yet for the iPhone 15. If you’re looking to upgrade, now is a great time to make the move!

FAQS

Q1. How much can you get the iPhone 15 (128GB, Blue) for on Amazon with the right offers?

Answer. You can get the iPhone 15 (128GB, Blue) for as low as ₹29,700 on Amazon with a 25% discount, an exchange offer for an iPhone 14 Plus (512GB), and an additional discount using an Amazon Pay ICICI Bank credit card.

Q2. What is the original and discounted price of the iPhone 15 (128GB, Blue) on Amazon?

Answer. The iPhone 15 (128GB, Blue) was originally priced at ₹79,900, but Amazon has slashed 25% off, bringing the price down to ₹59,999.

Q3. What are the key features of the iPhone 15?

Answer. The iPhone 15 features a 6.1-inch display with Dynamic Island, a 48MP primary sensor for better low-light, daylight, and portrait shots, an A16 Bionic chip, USB Type-C port, and a claimed all-day battery life.

Read More: iPhone 15 Flipkart Sale: Get it for just Rs 26,999

Read More: iPhone 14 Plus Now Rs 15,000 Off in Amazon Republic Day Sale

Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra S Pen Officially Unveiled Without Bluetooth Feature Leaving Fans Unhappy

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Highlights

  • Samsung unveiled the Galaxy S25 Ultra S Pen without Bluetooth connectivity.
  • Features like Air Actions, hover-based gestures and remote camera control are not available without Bluetooth.
  • The new S Pen is priced at $49.99 and features a 1.5mm tip with 4,096 levels of pressure sensitivity.
  • It is available in Black, Light Grey and Light Silver colour options.
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Samsung’s Galaxy S25 Ultra S Pen Officially Unveiled. (Image credit – Samsung)

Samsung unveiled the Galaxy S25 Ultra recently and as expected the S Pen remains a key feature. However, Samsung has made a major change this time by removing Bluetooth connectivity from the S Pen, which has sparked disappointment among fans. Here’s the full story.

New S Pen – What’s Changed?

Samsung has officially listed the new S Pen for the Galaxy S25 Ultra on its official website for $49.99. It comes in Black, Light Grey and Light Silver colour variants. The new pen features a 1.5mm tip with 4,096 levels of pressure sensitivity ensuring precision for writing and drawing. It also supports Air Command allowing users to access quick shortcuts.

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Samsung’s Galaxy S25 Ultra S Pen comes with a 1.5mm pen top and 4096 pressure levels. (Image credit – Samsung)

However, unlike previous models, the new S Pen does not support Bluetooth, which means popular features like Air Actions, remote camera control and hover-based gestures are gone.

At first, there was some confusion when a Samsung blog post suggested that Bluetooth-enabled S Pens, like the S Pen Pro, might still work. This led to excitement among fans hoping for a workaround.

However, Samsung later clarified to Android Authority that this was a mistake and that the Galaxy S25 Ultra does not support any Bluetooth-equipped S Pens. This confirmation has left many longtime Note and Ultra users frustrated.

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A user post on Reddit’s Samsung Galaxy Sub-community.
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A user post on Reddit’s Samsung page.

Why Did Samsung Remove Bluetooth?

Samsung explains that the removal of Bluetooth is due to low usage statistics and the extra cost and complexity it added. The new S Pen is now passive and no longer needs charging, which some users might appreciate.

This feels like a step backwards for fans who rely on remote camera control and air gestures. Many tech enthusiasts worry that Samsung could eventually phase out the S Pen entirely in future models.

For those who use the S Pen mainly for writing or basic tasks, the lack of Bluetooth may not be a big issue. But for power users, this change removes some of the features that made the Galaxy Ultra series stand out.

FAQs

Q1. What significant change did Samsung make to the Galaxy S25 Ultra S Pen?

Answer. Samsung removed Bluetooth connectivity from the Galaxy S25 Ultra S Pen, which means features like Air Actions, remote camera control and hover-based gestures are no longer available.

Q2. How much does the new Galaxy S25 Ultra S Pen cost and what are its features?

Answer. The new Galaxy S25 Ultra S Pen is priced at $49.99. It features a 1.5mm tip with 4,096 levels of pressure sensitivity and supports Air Command. It comes in Black, Light Grey and Light Silver colour variants but lacks Bluetooth functionality.

Q3. Why did Samsung remove Bluetooth from the new S Pen?

Answer. Samsung removed Bluetooth due to low usage statistics and the extra cost and complexity it added. The new S Pen is now passive and does not need charging.

Q4. Are Samsung Galaxy Ultra series users happy with the removal of Bluetooth from the S Pen?

Answer. Many longtime Note and Ultra users are frustrated by the removal of Bluetooth, as they rely on features like remote camera control and air gestures. Some worry that Samsung might phase out the S Pen entirely in future models.

Read More: Report: Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra Adds Video Zoom Feature Found on a 5-Year-Old POCO Phone

Read More: Samsung S Pen Creator Edition Launch

Mukesh Ambani on AI & ChatGPT After DeepSeek Rise, DeepSeek Under Scrutiny By Italian Data Protection Authority

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Highlights

  • Mukesh Ambani emphasised the importance of critical thinking and sustainable progress during a speech at PDEU.
  • He acknowledges AI as a powerful tool for learning.
  • DeepSeek is under scrutiny by the Italian Data Protection Authority for its handling of personal data.
  • European regulators demanding transparency on data collection, usage and transfers to China.
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Mukesh Ambani addressed the growing influence of AI in a recent recent and also spoke on how India should be gaining from the momentum. (Image credit – Unknown)

China’s DeepSeek AI has taken the world by surprise, quickly climbing to the top of the Apple App Store and causing ripples in global stock markets. The rise of this Chinese AI chatbot has sparked concerns about economic and geopolitical competition between the U.S. and China, leading to a stock market dip on Monday.

Just days after DeepSeek’s surge, Chairman of Reliance Industries Mukesh Ambani shared his thoughts on AI, ChatGPT, and India’s growth. Speaking at the 12th convocation of Pandit Deendayal Energy University (PDEU), he stressed that while AI is a powerful tool, it cannot replace critical thinking.

“Talking of Artificial Intelligence, I have a piece of advice to our young students. You must be good at using AI as a tool of learning, but do not give up your own critical thinking. You should definitely use ChatGPT but always remember that we can progress only through our own intelligence, not (through) artificial intelligence,” Ambani told graduating students.

Ambani also made a bold prediction: “India will emerge as the most prosperous nation in the world before the end of this century.” However, he emphasised that this progress must be sustainable, urging a faster shift from fossil fuels to clean energy to protect the planet.

“In this age of rapid technological advancement, the willingness to learn continuously is not an option, it is a must for survival and success. Therefore embrace curiosity and never stop learning,” he said.

DeepSeek Under Scrutiny in Europe

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Authorities planning to hold DeepSeek responsible. (Image credit – Lam Yik Bloomberg)

As DeepSeek gains traction, European regulators are taking notice.

The Italian Data Protection Authority (DPA) in collaboration with Euroconsumers has raised concerns over how DeepSeek handles personal data. The Italian DPA has given Hangzhou DeepSeek Artificial Intelligence 20 days to respond, demanding transparency on variant aspects of the platform. This includes the following –

  • What personal data is collected
  • Where the data come from
  • How it is used
  • Whether data transfers to China comply with EU laws

With DeepSeek’s rapid rise and growing regulatory scrutiny, AI’s role in global markets and data privacy is set to remain a hot topic in the coming weeks.

“The Authority, considering the potential high risk for the data of millions of people in Italy, has asked the two companies and their affiliates to confirm which personal data are collected, from which sources, for which purposes, what is the legal basis of the processing, and whether they are stored on servers located in China (translated from Italian),” an official press note reads.

It further adds, “The Guarantor also asked companies what kind of information is used to train the artificial intelligence system and, in the event that personal data is collected through web scraping activities, to clarify how users registered and those not registered to the service have been or are informed about the processing of their data.”

FAQs

Q1. What is DeepSeek AI and why has it gained attention recently?

Answer. DeepSeek AI, a Chinese chatbot, has quickly climbed to the top of the Apple App Store, causing ripples in global stock markets and sparking concerns about economic competition between the U.S. and China.

Q3. What did Mukesh Ambani emphasise about AI in his speech at PDEU?

Answer. Mukesh Ambani emphasised the importance of critical thinking and sustainable progress. He advised students to use AI tools like ChatGPT but not to abandon their own critical thinking. He also predicted that India will become the most prosperous nation by the end of the century.

Q3. Why is DeepSeek AI under scrutiny by European regulators?

Answer. DeepSeek AI is under scrutiny by the Italian Data Protection Authority for its handling of personal data. Regulators are demanding transparency on what personal data is collected, where it comes from, how it is used, and whether data transfers to China comply with EU laws.

Read More: DeepSeek Rise Shakes Up AI Industry, Sparking Musk’s Skepticism and Trump’s $500 Billion Investment as a Response

Read More: ChatGPT Search Will Now Be Available Free for Everyone

X Money Launching This Year as X Moves Closer to Becoming an ‘Everything App’

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Highlights

  • X Money is set to launch later this year focusing heavily on payments.
  • Visa is the first partner for the X Money Account enabling US users to fund and transfer money in real-time with their debit card using Visa Direct.
  • X Money will allow users to instantly add money securely, connect to debit cards for peer-to-peer payments and transfer money to bank accounts.
  • Expansion plans dependent on financial regulations in different countries.
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X Money’s official handle was recently created on the X (formerly Twitter).

When billionaire businessman Elon Musk took over Twitter (Now known as X) a couple of years ago, it was clear the man had a vision for what he wanted the app to be. Musk said he wanted to turn the app into the “town square” and “everything app.” It appears Musk’s vision of turning X into the West’s answer to WeChat is taking shape and a big part of that plan is payments. That’s where X Money comes as it is now set to launch later this year.

Here’s everything we know about X Money as of now.

What is X Money?

According to the official X Money account, it’s designed “for all your money moves.” X CEO Linda Yaccarino recently just announced that Visa is the first partner for the X Money Account. Yaccarino wrote, “Another milestone for the Everything App: @Visa is our first partner for the @XMoney Account, which will debut later this year.”

Visa also expressed excitement over the collaboration posting, “We’re excited to partner with

@XMoney on the launch of X Money Account. Visa Direct will make it possible for US X Money Account users to fund and transfer money in real-time with their debit card.”

In case you are confused, here’s what you will be able to do with X Money once it is launched –

  • Instantly add money securely using Visa Direct.
  • Connect it to your debit card for easy peer-to-peer payments.
  • Instantly transfer money to your bank account.

It looks like X Money will launch first in the US, but it remains to be seen how widely it will expand. Financial regulations differ across countries, so some features might not be available everywhere.

Yaccarino says the Visa deal is just the “first of many big announcements” for X Money this year. So, it’ll be interesting to see what’s next as X pushes forward with its ‘everything app’ ambition.

FAQs

Q1. What is X Money and when is it launching?

Answer. X Money is designed “for all your money moves” and is part of Elon Musk’s vision to turn X into an “everything app.” It is set to launch later this year.

Q2. Who is the first partner for the X Money Account?

Answer. Visa is the first partner for the X Money Account, as announced by X CEO Linda Yaccarino. Visa Direct will enable US X Money Account users to fund and transfer money in real time with their debit cards.

Q3. What can users do with X Money once it is launched?

Answer. Once launched, X Money will allow users to instantly add money securely using Visa Direct, connect it to their debit card for easy peer-to-peer payments, and instantly transfer money to their bank account.

Q4. Where will X Money launch first and will it expand globally?

Answer. X Money will launch first in the US. Expansion to other countries will depend on financial regulations, so some features might not be available everywhere. X CEO Linda Yaccarino mentioned that the Visa deal is the “first of many big announcements” for X Money this year.

Read More: Elon Musk’s X to Launch Streaming & Financial Services in 2025, MKBHD Selling Tesla Cybertruck Sparks Controversy

Read More: Twitter Completes Rebranding to X: What You Need to Know

HONOR’s Playful Unboxing Video Takes a Jab at Galaxy S25 Ultra

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Highlights

  • HONOR’s campaign “Happy 25th SAM” highlights the strengths of the Magic7 Pro compared to the Galaxy S25 Ultra.
  • It features unboxing videos with accessories hinting that the Galaxy S25 Ultra might need them.
  • Magic7 Pro Key features – 150 apps, AI Super Zoom for clearer images, advanced portrait with AI Enhanced Portrait and AI Motion Sensing, IP68+IP69 ratings, supports 100W wired and 80W wireless charging.
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Honor releases a new campaign for HONOR Magic7 Pro while taking a dig at Samsung Galaxy S25. (Image credit – Honor)

HONOR is having some fun in its latest campaign “Happy 25th SAM,” which highlights how the Magic7 Pro outshines the Galaxy S25 Ultra. The campaign features a series of humorous unboxing videos where a gift box includes a zoom lens, power bank, cooling fan and phone fill light. The subtle message seems that the Galaxy S25 Ultra might need extra accessories to keep up with the Magic7 Pro.

This cheeky approach has caught the attention of social media users and tech enthusiasts sparking conversations about the strengths and weaknesses of both devices.

 

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“We believe the Magic7 Pro stands strong against Samsung’s flagship device,” HONOR stated.

How HONOR Says the Magic7 Pro Beats the Galaxy S25 Ultra?

Magic Portal – A simple circle gesture gives seamless access to over 150 third-party apps, making tasks like search, navigation, entertainment, shopping and office work more efficient.

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Honor’s campaign for HONOR Magic7 Pro highlighting the AI Super Zoom feature. (Image credit – Honor)

AI Super Zoom – Uses cloud AI to deliver clearer, more detailed images at zoom levels beyond 30x, which HONOR claims outperforms Samsung’s Space Zoom.

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Honor’s campaign for HONOR Magic7 Pro highlighting AI Enhance Portrait and Motion Sensing Capture features. (Image credit – Honor)

Advanced Portrait & Capture Features – The first on-device portrait AI model enhances photography with AI Enhanced Portrait, Harcourt Portrait, HD Super Burst and AI Motion Sensing for capturing fast-moving subjects.

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Honor’s campaign for HONOR Magic7 Pro. (Image credit – Honor)

Durability & Charging – The IP68+IP69-rated device offers superior water and dust resistance, supports 100W wired and 80W wireless charging and features a dual 3D biometric security system with 3D Ultrasonic Fingerprint Unlocking and 3D ToF Face Locking.

Meanwhile, HONOR is working on the brand expanding the brand’s presence in Europe, the Middle East, and Latin America.

 FAQs

Q1. What is the main theme of HONOR’s Happy 25th SAM campaign?

Answer. HONOR’s “Happy 25th SAM” campaign humorously highlights how the Magic7 Pro outshines the Galaxy S25 Ultra. The campaign features unboxing videos with accessories, subtly suggesting that the Galaxy S25 Ultra might need extra accessories to match the Magic7 Pro.

Q2. What are some key features of the HONOR Magic7 Pro mentioned in the campaign?

Answer. Key features of the Magic7 Pro include the Magic Portal for seamless access to over 150 apps, AI Super Zoom for clearer images at zoom levels beyond 30x, and advanced portrait and capture features with AI Enhanced Portrait and AI Motion Sensing.

Q3. How does the HONOR Magic7 Pro ensure durability and security?

Answer. The Magic7 Pro is durable with IP68+IP69 ratings, supports 100W wired and 80W wireless charging, and features a dual 3D biometric security system including 3D Ultrasonic Fingerprint Unlocking and 3D ToF Face Locking.

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Report: Samsung to Launch Four New Budget 5G Smartphones in India Soon

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Highlights

  • Samsung is set to launch four new budget-friendly 5G smartphones in India.
  • These include the Galaxy A06, Galaxy F06, Galaxy F16 and Galaxy M16.
  • Support pages and certifications hint at an imminent launch.
  • The Galaxy A06 will be Samsung’s first 5G-enabled device in its budget-friendly A0x series and is expected to feature a MediaTek Dimensity 6300 chipset, 4GB RAM and Android 15 OS.
  • The Galaxy F16 and M16 are anticipated to be rebranded versions of the Galaxy A16.
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Samsung to bring four new affordable 5G Galaxy phones soon in India. (Image credit – Samsung)

Samsung seems to be strengthening its hold on India’s affordable smartphone market with multiple budget-friendly 5G options on the way. The Korean brand is gearing up to expand its 5G lineup in India with four new affordable models including Galaxy A06, Galaxy F06, Galaxy F16 and Galaxy M16.

While Samsung hasn’t made an official announcement yet, support pages for these devices have gone live on Samsung’s India website hinting at an imminent launch. Certifications and benchmark listings further support these speculations.

Here’s everything we know about the upcoming phones so far.

Model Numbers and Certifications

According to media reports, the upcoming devices have been identified with the following model numbers:

  • Galaxy A06 – SM-A066B/DS
  • Galaxy F06 – SM-E066B/DS
  • Galaxy F16 – SM-E166P/DS
  • Galaxy M16 – SM-M166P/DS

These models were recently spotted on the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) website confirming an India launch. Additionally, the Galaxy A06 and Galaxy F06 have appeared in the Bluetooth SIG database, confirming 5G connectivity, Bluetooth and WLAN capabilities.

Galaxy A06 – First 5G Phone in the A0x Series

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Galaxy A06 4G Variant. (Image credit – Samsung)

The Galaxy A06 will be Samsung’s first 5G-enabled device in its budget-friendly A0x series. Expected specifications include:

  • Chipset: MediaTek Dimensity 6300
  • OS: Android 15
  • RAM: 4GB
  • Performance: Geekbench scores of 731 (single-core) and 1,816 (multi-core)

The Galaxy F06 is rumoured to have similar specifications but may be positioned as a slightly more premium variant.

Galaxy F16 and M16 – Most Likely Rebranded Models

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Galaxy F16. (Image credit – 91Mobiles)

The Galaxy F16 and Galaxy M16 are expected to be rebranded versions of the Galaxy A16, which launched in October 2024. Their expected features include:

  • Display: 6.7-inch FHD+ screen
  • Chipset: MediaTek Dimensity 6300
  • RAM: 8GB
  • Cameras: 50MP triple rear camera & 13MP front camera
  • Battery: 5,000mAh
  • Connectivity: Dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz & 5GHz)

Galaxy A06 4G Variant Already Available

Samsung already launched a 4G version of the Galaxy A06 in September 2024. This variant features a MediaTek Helio G85 chipset, a 5,000mAh battery with 25W fast charging and a 50MP dual-rear camera system.

FAQs

Q1. Which new budget-friendly 5G smartphones is Samsung planning to launch in India?

Answer. Samsung is set to launch four new budget-friendly 5G smartphones in India, including the Galaxy A06, Galaxy F06, Galaxy F16 and Galaxy M16.

Q2. What are the expected specifications of the Galaxy A06?

Answer. The Galaxy A06 is expected to feature a MediaTek Dimensity 6300 chipset, 4GB RAM, and Android 15 OS. It will be Samsung’s first 5G-enabled device in its budget-friendly A0x series.

Q3. How do the Galaxy F16 and M16 compare to other models?

Answer. The Galaxy F16 and M16 are anticipated to be rebranded versions of the Galaxy A16, featuring a 6.7-inch FHD+ display, MediaTek Dimensity 6300 chipset, 50MP triple rear camera and 5,000mAh battery.

Q4. Have the new Samsung models received any certifications?

Answer. Yes, the new Samsung models have been spotted on the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) website, confirming an India launch. The Galaxy A06 and Galaxy F06 have also appeared in the Bluetooth SIG database, confirming 5G connectivity, Bluetooth and WLAN capabilities.