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Threads Adds Markup Tool To Allow Users Scribble On Other’s Posts

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Highlights

  • Threads has introduced a new markup tool.
  • It allows users to highlight, draw arrows and doodle on others’ posts before resharing.
  • Users can disable the markup feature using the “who can reply and quote” setting.
  • The original poster will be notified if their post is marked up.
  • Post-scheduling and analytics features are also introduced.
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Threads new Markup tool lets you scribble on other users’ posts. (Image credit – Engadget)

Threads has introduced a creative new feature that lets users scribble on other people’s posts before resharing them. Instagram Head Adam Mosseri announced the update in a post, calling it a way to “add your creative take” to content.

The new “markup” tool is available in the menu for quoting and reposting. Instead of simply quoting a post, it opens an editing tool where users can highlight text, draw arrows or doodle directly on a screenshot of the post.

Currently, the options are limited to yellow highlights and red arrows or scribbles, but Mosseri hinted that “more to come soon” from Meta is in the pipeline.

 

View on Threads

 

A Threads spokesperson confirmed that the original poster will be notified if their post is marked up. Additionally, users can disable the markup feature on their posts by using the “who can reply and quote” setting.

Post Scheduling and Analytics Now Available

Threads is also rolling out two long-awaited features – post scheduling and analytics.

These tools are designed to help brands, creators and businesses manage their presence more effectively on the platform. Scheduling posts allows users to plan their content in advance, while analytics offers insights into performance metrics, making it easier to track engagement.

Both features are likely to appeal to professionals looking for more advanced tools on Threads. They could also become vital if Meta proceeds with its reported plans to introduce ads on the platform in early 2025.

It is evident that Threads is focused on offering more creative and business-friendly tools with the addition of tool such as markup, scheduling and analytics. Whether all these help in keeping it competitive with other social platforms or not is something only time will tell.

FAQs

Q1. What is the new feature introduced by Threads?

Answer. Threads has introduced a markup tool allowing users to highlight text, draw arrows, and doodle on others’ posts before resharing them.

Q2. How can users manage the markup feature on their posts?

Answer. Users can disable the markup feature on their posts by using the “who can reply and quote” setting and the original poster will be notified if their post is marked up.

Q3. What additional features has Threads rolled out?

Answer. Threads has rolled out post scheduling and analytics tools, designed to help brands, creators, and businesses manage their presence more effectively on the platform.

Also Read : Threads Adding Location Tagging Feature Not Available to All Users Yet

Also Read : Meta Tests 24-Hour Disappearing Posts on Threads

Oppo Find N5 New Leak Reveals Key Details Including Weight and Side Fingerprint Sensor

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Highlights

  • Oppo’s Find N5 might not be the lightest foldable phone weighing under 230 grams.
  • The phone will feature a 5,700mAh battery, side-mounted fingerprint sensor, flat screens, Qualcomm’s 7-core Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset and a triple camera setup.
  • The Find N5 will include 80W wired charging, 50W wireless charging and water resistance.
  • It will come in two versions – standard and satellite communication.
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Oppo’s Zhou Yibao shared the comparison images of the Find N5 in a post on Weibo last week.

Oppo’s upcoming foldable phone the Find N5 is generating buzz ahead of its February launch. Rumoured to be the world’s thinnest foldable phone, it will reportedly measure less than 9.2mm when folded.

However, if you thought the slim profile would mean an overall lightweight device, the new word says that may be the case.

According to tipster Digital Chat Station’s recent post on Weibo, the Find N5 won’t claim the title of the lightest foldable phone.

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Tipster Digital Chat Station’s recent post on Weibo.

Currently, the Vivo X Fold 3 holds the crown for the lightest foldable phone, weighing just 219 grams. While the Find N5 may not surpass this, it is expected to be lighter than Oppo’s Find N3, which weighs 239 grams and packs a 4,805mAh battery.

The Find N5 will feature a larger 5,700mAh battery but Oppo Find Product Manager Zhao Yibao hinted that the phone could weigh less than 230 grams. If true, this would make it a strong competitor in the lightweight foldable category.

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Oppo Find Product Manager Zhao Yibao’s reply to a comment.

Digital Chat Station also revealed that the Find N5 will retain a side-mounted fingerprint sensor, similar to its predecessor. The device will feature flat internal and external screens adding to its sleek design.

Apart from this, other reports have confirmed that the Find N5 will be powered by Qualcomm’s 7-core Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset. It will support 80W wired charging and 50W wireless charging. Photography enthusiasts can look forward to a triple camera setup including a periscope telephoto lens for impressive zoom capabilities.

The phone’s design will incorporate a 3D-printed titanium alloy hinge and boast water resistance ratings of IPX6, X8 and X9. Oppo will release two versions of the Find N5 including the standard model (PKH110) and a satellite communication version (PKH120).

FAQs

Q1. When is the Oppo Find N5 expected to launch and what are its key dimensions?

Answer. The Oppo Find N5 is generating buzz ahead of its February launch and is rumoured to be the world’s thinnest foldable phone, measuring less than 9.2mm when folded.

Q2. What are some of the standout features of the Oppo Find N5?

Answer. The Find N5 will feature a 5,700mAh battery, a side-mounted fingerprint sensor, flat internal and external screens, and Qualcomm’s 7-core Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset.

Q3. What charging capabilities and camera setup does the Oppo Find N5 offer?

Answer. The Find N5 will support 80W wired charging, 50W wireless charging, and will include a triple camera setup, including a periscope telephoto lens.

Read More: OPPO Find N5s First Teaser Released, Hints Thinnest Design, Titanium Build

PS6 Leaks Hint at Zen 5 CPU, UDNA GPU and 8K Gaming

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Highlights

  • PS6 development is advancing rapidly with Sony completing the design of its system-on-chip and moving to pre-silicon validation.
  • PS6 is expected to feature an AMD Zen 5 CPU with 8 cores and 16 threads, a UDNA GPU and support 4K at 120 FPS and 8K at 60 FPS gaming.
  • The next-gen gaming console is anticipated to launch in 2027.
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PS6 will most likely launch officially in 2027. (Image credit – Sony)

Exciting details about Sony’s PlayStation 6 (PS6) have leaked hinting that the console’s development is moving faster than expected. According to a recent Gizmochina report based on leaker Kepler_L2 post on the NeoGAF forums, Sony has completed designing the PS6’s system-on-chip (SoC) and is now in the pre-silicon validation phase. This means the core processing chip has been designed and is undergoing virtual testing.

The first batch of these chips known as the A0 tapeout is scheduled to be manufactured later this year for real-world testing.

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Leaker Kepler_L2’s posts on the NeoGAF forums.

PS6 – Advanced Hardware

As per media reports, Intel lost the opportunity to produce the PS6’s processor to AMD back in 2022.

The PS6 is currently rumoured to feature a semi-custom APU from AMD built by TSMC. This advanced chip combines a Zen 5 CPU and a UDNA GPU (formerly referred to as RDNA 5).

The Zen 5 CPU is expected to pack 8 cores and 16 threads delivering a significant boost in processing power compared to the PS5’s Zen 2-based CPU. Meanwhile, the UDNA GPU manufactured with TSMC’s N3E process will reportedly include features like X3D cache technology, similar to AMD’s high-performance Ryzen 7 9800X3D processor.

This configuration promises exceptional performance for gaming and computational tasks.

PS6 – Gaming Capabilities

Sony is aiming to elevate gaming with the PS6 by supporting 4K resolution at 120 FPS and even 8K at 60 FPS. While exact performance numbers are not yet confirmed, the jump from the PS5’s 10.3 teraflops of computing power to the PS6 is expected to be substantial.

Instead of relying solely on raw power, the PS6 is likely to use advanced AI-based upscaling technologies to enhance visuals. Upgrades to Sony’s PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution (PSSR) and AMD’s next-gen FidelityFX Super Resolution (FSR 5) are expected to play a key role in delivering high-quality graphics.

As for the launch timeline, the PlayStation 5 launched in November 2020 and if the rumours are true, the PS6 will most likely arrive globally in 2027.

FAQs

Q1. What is the status of PlayStation 6 (PS6) development?

Answer. Sony has completed designing the PS6’s system-on-chip (SoC) and is now in the pre-silicon validation phase.

Q2. What are the expected hardware specifications of the PS6?

Answer. The PS6 is rumoured to feature a semi-custom APU from AMD, combining a Zen 5 CPU with 8 cores and 16 threads, and a UDNA GPU, with support for 4K at 120 FPS and 8K at 60 FPS gaming.

Q3. When is the PS6 expected to be launched?

Answer. The PS6 is likely to hit the shelves in 2027, according to the rumours.

Also Read : Sony to Work with AMD Again for PS6 Chip After Talks with Intel Fails

Also Read : Sony PlayStation 5 Pro Rumored Launch and Features: What We Know So Far

Apple May Have to Promote State-Backed Apps on iPhones in India

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Highlights

  • The Indian government has requested Apple and Google to integrate its Gov.inapp store into their platforms.
  • This request challenges Apple’s policy of not allowing third-party app stores.
  • Apple may comply as it views India as a crucial market for consumer growth and manufacturing alternative to China.
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Apple might comply with the Indian government’s request to integrate its Gov.inapp store. (Image credit – Apple)

India is one of the most important markets for Apple after China and has always required the tech giant to adapt to local regulations. It started when a $1 billion investment was made in 2019 to enable iPhone exports from India. Now, reports suggest India is pressuring the Cupertino Giant to promote its government-backed app store on iPhones. Here’s what we know so far.

According to a recent Bloomberg report, the Indian government has requested that both Apple and Google integrate the Gov.in app store into iOS and Android. While India’s state-backed apps are already available on Apple’s App Store, the government reportedly wants its app marketplace to be more prominently featured.

The report states, “The country’s technology ministry called in executives from Apple, Google and other smartphone makers last month to request that they provide Indians direct access to the government’s suite of apps, according to people familiar with the matter. Officials asked the tech companies to make the state-backed GOV.in app store available in their marketplaces, including in the Apple and Android ones, said the people, asking not to be named because the talks aren’t yet public.”

This poses a unique challenge for Apple as it doesn’t allow other app stores within its App Store. Third-party app marketplaces are only permitted where legal requirements enforce it. To comply with India’s request, Apple might need to confront legal action from the government.

This is not the first time such requests have been made as Apple has faced similar situations before in other countries.

For example, Apple had to show iPhone users a government-mandated list of state-backed apps during the device setup process in Russia. Bloomberg suggests a similar approach might be considered in India.

Bloomberg reports, “The ministry’s goal is to expand distribution of its public-welfare services through technology. They would also like the state-backed app suite installed on mobile devices before sale and available for download from third parties without warnings like “untrusted source,” they said.”

It appears Apple may be willing to adapt despite the potential hurdles.

The company sees India as a crucial market not just for its growing consumer base but also as a key player in its strategy to diversify manufacturing away from China. Complying with this request might be viewed as a minor compromise compared to larger issues like safeguarding the security of iOS.

Promoting local government apps might not be ideal but is far from opening a backdoor into Apple’s ecosystem, making it a concession Apple might ultimately accept.

FAQs

Q1. What has the Indian government requested from Apple and Google?

Answer. The Indian government has requested that Apple and Google integrate the Gov.inapp store into iOS and Android and prominently feature state-backed apps.

Q2. How might Apple respond to the Indian government’s request?

Answer. Apple might need to confront legal action from the government to comply with India’s request, as it doesn’t allow other app stores within its App Store.

Q3. Why is India considered a crucial market for Apple?

Answer. Apple views India as a crucial market not just for its growing consumer base but also as a key player in its strategy to diversify manufacturing away from China.

Also Read : Apple Nearly Matches Samsung in Q3 2024 Global Smartphone Sales; Global Market Grew 5%

Also Read : iPhone 16 Sales Meet Expectations; Teen Survey Hints iPhone 16 Upgrades After Apple Intelligence

Also Read: Google Searches Spike for “Eyes Hurt” After Solar Eclipse Viewing Frenzy

Blinkit Expands 10-Minute Delivery to Nokia, Xiaomi Phones After iPhone 16

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Highlights

  • Blinkit has expanded its 10-minute delivery service to include Nokia and Xiaomi smartphones and feature phones.
  • The service is available in select cities including Delhi-NCR, Mumbai and Bengaluru.
  • The smartphones offered include the Redmi 13 5G, Redmi 14C and Nokia 105, all available with a no-cost EMI option.
  • This move follows Blinkit’s recent expansion to deliver electronic items such as laptops, monitors and printers.
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Blinkit to start delivering to Nokia and Xiaomi Phones in 10 minutes. (Image credit – Blinkit CEO Albinder Dhindsa on X)

Blinkit has announced an expansion of its quick commerce service to deliver Nokia and Xiaomi smartphones and feature phones within 10 minutes. Initially available in select cities, this service adds to Blinkit’s growing range of gadgets, which includes iPhones, PS5s and laptops from HP and Lenovo.

In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Blinkit CEO Albinder Dhindsa said, “Blinkit has partnered with Xiaomi and HMD Global (parent company of Nokia phones) to deliver their best-selling smartphones and feature phones to interested buyers within 10 minutes.”

As part of this service, the company will deliver the Redmi 13 5G, the Redmi 14C and the Nokia 105 in just 10 minutes. The Redmi 13 5G starts at Rs 12,499, the Redmi 14C at Rs 9,999 and the Nokia 105 costs Rs 2,199 in India. Dhindsa also noted that buyers can opt for a no-cost EMI on “most of these phones.”

This service is already available in parts of Delhi-National Capital Region (NCR), Mumbai and Bengaluru.

These smartphones join the iPhone 16, which has been available for 10-minute delivery since its launch in September 2024. Blinkit plans to expand the list of available phones and brands in the coming days.

It’s worth noting that this announcement comes soon after Blinkit expanded its quick commerce service to include electronic items such as monitors, printers and laptops.

The company offers 10-minute delivery of laptops from HP, monitors from Lenovo, Zebronics and MSI, and printers from Canon and HP. This service is available in Delhi NCR, Pune, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Kolkata and Lucknow with plans to expand the range of products and brands soon.

FAQs

Q1. What new brands has Blinkit included in its 10-minute delivery service?

Answer. Blinkit has partnered with Xiaomi and HMD Global (parent company of Nokia phones) to deliver their best-selling smartphones and feature phones within 10 minutes.

Q2. Which smartphones are available for Blinkit’s 10-minute delivery service?

Answer. As part of this service, the company will deliver the Redmi 13 5G, the Redmi 14C and the Nokia 105 in just 10 minutes.

Q3. In which cities is Blinkit’s 10-minute delivery service available for smartphones?

Answer. This service is available in parts of the Delhi-National Capital Region (NCR), Mumbai, and Bengaluru.

Read More: Blinkit Launches 10-Minute Ambulance Service in Gurugram

Read More: Blinkit Launches 10-Minute Return and Exchange Service for Clothing and Footwear in Select Cities

Realme 14T Leak Unveils Exciting Colour Options And Up to 12GB RAM

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Highlights

  • Recent leaks reveal the Realme 14T 5G to arrive with up to 12GB RAM and three storage configurations.
  • It will have three colour choices – Lighting Purple, Mountains Green and Obsidian Black.
  • The Realme 14T is expected to be priced between the Realme 14 Pro (Rs 24,999) and Realme 14 Pro+ (Rs 29,999).
  • The phone has also been listed on the Eurasian Economic Commission (EEC) website.
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Realme 14T representative image. (Image credit – 91Mobiles)

Realme recently launched its 14 Pro series in India including the Realme 14 Pro and 14 Pro+. However, several leaked reports have hinted that an unexpected new model could be part of the lineup. This new model has been revealed to be the Realme 14T 5G in previous leaks. Now the most recent report from 91mobiles has finally confirmed some key details about this new phone.

Here’s everything we know so far.

Realme 14T – Colour Options and RAM Variants

This is the first time Realme is introducing a “T-series” model in its numbered series. The upcoming Realme 14T will reportedly have the model number RMX5078 for the Indian variant and will come with three RAM and storage configurations.

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Realme 14T colours and memory options. (Credit – 91Mobiles)

According to the recent reports, the storage  variants of this phone would be as follows –

  • 8GB RAM + 128GB storage
  • 8GB RAM + 256GB storage
  • 12GB RAM + 256GB storage

In terms of colour options, the phone will reportedly be available in –

  • Lighting Purple
  • Mountains Green
  • Obsidian Black

While the names are fairly typical, the actual colours could look more appealing in person.

The Realme 14T joins an already extensive lineup that includes the Realme 14 Pro, 14 Pro+, 14 Pro Lite, and 14x. However, it’s unclear where the 14T will be positioned in terms of pricing. To recall, the Realme 14 Pro starts at Rs 24,999 and the Realme 14 Pro+ at Rs 29,999.

Keeping these prices in mind, the 14T could fall somewhere between these models or cater to a niche audience.

Realme 14T Spotted on EEC Certification

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Realme 14T was also spotted at the EEC (Eurasian Economic Commission). (Image credit – 91Mobiles)

The Realme 14T has also been listed on the Eurasian Economic Commission (EEC) website, with the model number RMX5078 for the Indian variant. Another model RMX5079 was also spotted, possibly indicating a variant of the same phone.

While the EEC certification doesn’t reveal any hardware specifications, it hints that the launch could be approaching for regions covered by the EEC.

Details about the Realme 14T 5G are limited as of now. However, we can expect more information including specs and pricing to emerge in the coming days.

FAQs

Q1. What new model is part of Realme’s 14 series?

Answer. The new model is the Realme 14T 5G, which is part of the Realme 14 series.

Q2. What are the RAM and storage configurations of the Realme 14T?

Answer. The Realme 14T will come in three configurations: 8GB RAM + 128GB storage, 8GB RAM + 256GB storage and 12GB RAM + 256GB storage.

Q3. What colour options will be available for the Realme 14T?

Answer. The Realme 14T will be available in Lighting Purple, Mountains Green and Obsidian Black.

Q4. Where has the Realme 14T been listed hinting at an upcoming launch?

Answer. The Realme 14T has been listed on the Eurasian Economic Commission (EEC) website indicating that the launch could be approaching.

Q5. What are the potential price points for the Realme 14T in the lineup?

Answer. While the exact pricing is unclear, the Realme 14T could fall somewhere between the Realme 14 Pro (starting at Rs 24,999) and Realme 14 Pro+ (starting at Rs 29,999) or cater to a niche audience.

Read More: Realme 14 Pro Series Teaser Released Revealing Suede Leather Finish and 1.5K Curved AMOLED Display

Samsung Unveils ‘Project Moohan’ XR Headset at Galaxy Unpacked 2025

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Highlights

  • Samsung teased its first extended reality (XR) headset code-named ‘Project Moohan.’
  • Key Features – ultra-high-resolution OLEDoS displays, low-latency passthrough and spatial computing powered by Snapdragon XR2+ Gen 2.
  • The rumoured price is exceeding $2,000.
  • Samsung also hinted at AI-powered smart glasses featuring the Snapdragon AR1 Gen 1 chip and Google’s Gemini platform.
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Samsung Project Moohan revealed at Unpacked 2025. (Image credit – Sammobile)

Samsung launched its new Galaxy S25 lineup featuring the Galaxy S25, S25+ and S25 Ultra with the latest Snapdragon 8 Elite chip at the recent Galaxy Unpacked 2025 event in San Jose California. However, it is not the only thing we got to see during the event. The Korean tech company also teased a bunch of other upcoming tech including its first extended reality (XR) headset code-named ‘Project Moohan.’

This marks Samsung’s foray into the XR and wearable device market signalling its ambition to transform how users interact with both physical and digital spaces.

Originally announced in December 2024, Samsung’s XR headset is designed to deliver cutting-edge immersive experiences. It runs on the new Android XR operating system, developed in partnership with Google and Qualcomm and supports advanced multimodal input such as –

  • Eye tracking
  • Hand gestures
  • Voice commands

The device is expected to include:

  • Ultra-high-resolution OLEDoS displays for sharp visuals.
  • Low-latency passthrough capabilities, making virtual and real-world interactions seamless.
  • Spatial computing powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon XR2+ Gen 2 chip.

Additionally, with Google’s Gemini AI assistant integration, users can access features like:

  • Circle to Search for quick information retrieval.
  • Live text translation for real-time language assistance.
  • Enhanced browsing with Google Chrome.

The headset’s price is rumoured to exceed $2,000. And while no release date has been confirmed, it’s expected to launch later this year.

Beyond the XR headset, Samsung also hinted at its plans for AI-powered smart glasses. These glasses may feature the Snapdragon AR1 Gen 1 chip and Google’s Gemini platform enabling vision-based and voice-controlled interactions.

Samsung CEO TM Roh stated the company aims to bring smart glasses to market as soon as possible reinforcing its commitment to leading the next wave of wearable technology.

FAQs

Q1. What is Samsung’s ‘Project Moohan’?

Answer. Samsung’s ‘Project Moohan’ is its first extended reality (XR) headset, designed to deliver cutting-edge immersive experiences running on the new Android XR operating system developed in partnership with Google and Qualcomm.

Q2. What are the key features of the ‘Project Moohan’ XR headset?

Answer. The headset includes ultra-high-resolution OLEDoS displays, low-latency passthrough capabilities, spatial computing powered by Snapdragon XR2+ Gen 2, and advanced multimodal input such as eye tracking, hand gestures and voice commands.

Q3. What future innovations did Samsung hint at during the Galaxy Unpacked 2025 event?

Answer. Beyond the XR headset, Samsung also hinted at its plans for AI-powered smart glasses, which may feature the Snapdragon AR1 Gen 1 chip and Google’s Gemini platform, enabling vision-based and voice-controlled interactions. The company aims to bring these smart glasses to market “as soon as possible.”

Read More: Samsung is planning to unveil its XR headset in 2025

Also Read : Google Explores Partnerships for Smart Glasses and XR Devices

Samsung Teases Its First Tri-Fold Phone – Here’s What We Know

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Highlights 

  • 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.
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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.

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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.

Read More: Samsung Galaxy S25 Series Live Images Surface Ahead of Launch

Read More: Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra Gets 16GB/1TB Model in Select Markets

Airtel’s New Tariff Hike – Higher Costs for Basic Phone Users

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Highlights

  • 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.
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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.

Read More: Airtel Network Outage Reported as Users Across India Face Connectivity Issues

Read More: Airtel Introduces ₹398 Prepaid Plan with Hotstar Subscription; Jio Unveils ₹2025 New Year Offer

Reliance Jio’s Value Prepaid Plans for 2025 – Here’s Your Affordable Options to Keep Your SIM Active!

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Highlights

  • 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.

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