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Snapchat Rolls Out New Location Tracking Features for Families

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Highlights

  • Snapchat is rolling out location-tracking features for families.
  • The new feature will allow parents to monitor their children’s locations and Snap Map settings.
  • Parents can set up travel notifications for specific places like school or home.
  • The new features are expected to be available in the coming weeks.
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Snapchat is adding new location-sharing features to its Family Center setting. (Image credit – Snapchat.

Snapchat is rolling out enhanced location-tracking features specifically for families. This feature will allow parents to keep a tab on their children’s Snap Map settings and locations.

As per media reports, these new features are expected to be available for wider users in the coming weeks and will be part of Snapchat’s Family Center parental control hub.

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Parents will be able to set up specific location notifications on the Snap Map for home or school. (Image credit – Snapchat)

Parents can now request access to view their child’s location or share their own with these updates.

They can also set up “travel notifications” to receive alerts when their child leaves specific places like school or home.

Snapchat shared details of the feature in a blog post, saying, “We’re adding travel notifications to Family Center to give parents more peace of mind knowing their teen has arrived at class, left sports practice on time, or even returned home after a night with friends.”

Currently, the Snapchat Family Center already allows parents to monitor who their kids are chatting with.

With this latest update, parents will also be able to see who their teen has shared their location with on Snap Map.

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Parents will be able to view their teen’s location settings. (Image credit – Snapchat)

A recent The Verge report revealed that this location-tracking feature will be released along with the other location features.

The Verge report mentions, “Once you have the update, you’ll see an option in the Family Center that lets parents request their teen’s locations, and vice versa.The hub will also allow parents to view their child’s location-sharing settings alongside existing privacy settings to ensure they’re using the app safely and responsibly.”

Snapchat Adds New Safety Features, Including Live Location Requests

The report adds, “If that’s not enough, Snap is allowing family members to send automatic travel notifications, which will ping them when you’ve arrived to or left from three designated locations, such as home or school.”

These new features are being introduced amid rising safety concerns over Snapchat’s location-sharing features.

Recently, Snapchat has been under fire for allegedly allowing teens to interact with strangers, including criminals.

A lawsuit filed by New Mexico’s Attorney General earlier this year highlighted these safety concerns.

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Users will soon start getting pop-up reminders whenever new friends are added. (Image credit – Snapchat)

In response to growing concerns, Snapchat has noted that only friends can share location info on Snap Map.

Moreover, the instant messaging app is planning to add reminder prompts for users to be careful of who they share their location with.

FAQs

Q1. What new features is Snapchat introducing for families?

Answer. Snapchat is rolling out enhanced location-tracking features, allowing parents to monitor their children’s Snap Map settings and locations through the Family Center parental control hub.

Q2. How can parents receive notifications about their child’s location?

Answer. Parents can set up “travel notifications” to receive alerts when their child leaves or arrives at specific places like school or home.

Q3. What safety measures are Snapchat implementing with the new features?

Answer. Snapchat will allow parents to see who their teen has shared their location with and will add reminder prompts for users to be careful of who they share their location with.

Also Read : Snapchat Camera Can Be Accessed from the iPhone Lock Screen with iOS 18

Also Read : Snapchat Rolls Out New Footsteps Feature for iOS Users: Now Track as You Move

Also Read : Snapchat Expands Partnership with Google Cloud to Use Gemini for Its AI Chatbot

WhatsApp Beta Tests New Notification Controls To Clarify Impact of Muting Group Chat

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Highlights

  • WhatsApp is testing a feature to clarify how muting group chats affects notifications.
  • Users can choose to receive notifications for all messages or only key interactions.
  • Default notification settings now depend on group size.
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WhatsApp making group chat notifications more clearer and customisable. (Photo by Deeksha Pahariya on Unsplash)

WhatsApp Group chats are fun but sometimes you have to mute them in order to avoid the constant notifications.

But have you ever wondered how muting your family group chats impact your notifications? Or did you ever want to have more control over how you receive notifications from muted group chats? Well, to make it all more convenient and simplified, WhatsApp is testing some changes in Beta that may soon be available to everyone.

In an earlier report on WhatsApp beta for Android, it was revealed that WhatsApp is testing a new feature to make group notifications clearer and customisable.

This feature aims to clarify how muting group chats affects notifications and gives users more control over what alerts they receive.

Now according to a more recent update shared by Wabetainfo, some beta testers are already getting this new notification activity feature.

The screenshot shared by Wabetainfo shows users can now decide if they want notifications for all messages in a group or only for key interactions labelled “Highlights.” The group chat ‘Highlights’ would include mentions, replies and other direct engagements.

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WhatsApp Group Chats will now have notification options for users to choose from. (Screenshot credit – Wabetainfo)

This update helps users focus on relevant notifications in large, busy groups without being overwhelmed by every message.

Moreover, the new feature also clarifies that even when a group is muted, certain interactions like mentions or direct replies may still trigger notifications.

This prevents confusion around what “muting” truly means. In the current system, many users assume muting would silence all alerts.

However, WhatsApp is making it clear which notifications will still come through with this update.

Wabetainfo also notes that WhatsApp’s default notification settings for group chats are now influenced by group size.

This means large groups default to ‘Highlights’ notifications only and spare users from a flood of alerts.

Meanwhile, smaller groups continue to notify for all messages unless changed by the user.

The latest beta update (2.24.24.10) is currently available on the Google Play Store.

This update is rolling out to more beta testers and will expand to a broader audience over the coming weeks.

FAQs

Q1. What is the new notification activity feature being tested by WhatsApp?

Answer. WhatsApp is testing a feature to clarify how muting group chats affects notifications, giving users more control over alerts.

Q2. What are the ‘Highlights’ in WhatsApp group notifications?

Answer. Users can choose to receive notifications for all messages or only key interactions like mentions and replies, even in muted groups.

Q3. How do WhatsApp’s default notification settings vary by group size?

Answer. Default notification settings now depend on group size; large groups get “Highlights” by default to prevent a flood of alerts, while smaller groups notify for all messages unless changed.

Q5.How to mute a group chat ?

Answer. Open the Group Chat: Tap on the group chat you want to mute.

Access Group Info: Tap on the group name at the top of the chat screen.

Mute Notifications: Tap on “Mute notifications.”

Choose Duration: Select the desired duration for muting, such as 8 hours, 1 week, or always.

Also Read : WhatsApp Beta Introduces Image Search Feature to Check Authenticity of Images

Also Read : WhatsApp Beta Testing New Gallery Shortcut to Make Image and Video Sharing Easier

Vivo V50 Series Spotted in Online Database

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Highlights

  • Vivo V50 Series including Vivo V50 and V50e spotted in the IMEI database.
  • Vivo is actively testing the upcoming V50 Series.
  • The global launch of the Vivo V50 is anticipated around February 2025.
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Vivo V40 5G is currently available at the starting price of ₹31,775. (Image credit – Vivo/Smartprix) 

Vivo has been focused on building a reliable mid-range smartphone portfolio that brings forth performance enhancements with every upgrade.

After the launch of the mid-range Vivo 40 Series just a few months ago, it appears the brand is already in action mode to develop its successor.

A recent exclusive report on Vivo V50 shows the brand is currently testing the upcoming smartphone series. Here’s what we know so far.

In a recent exclusive report, Smartprix has shared screenshots of spotting the upcoming Vivo V50 Series in the IMEI database.

According to Smartprix, Vivo is actively testing the V50 lineup, which will most likely include the Vivo V50 and V50e models. The IMEI database confirms two models with different model numbers.

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Vivo V50 with model number V2427 spotted in IMEI database. (Screenshot credit – Smartprix)
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Vivo V50e with model number V2428 spotted in IMEI database. (Screenshot credit – Smartprix)

The two models spotted in the online database were Vivo V50 and V50e models with model numbers V2427 and V2428, respectively.

Vivo V50 Series – What We Know

While we still do not know much about the next-generation V50 Series as of now, some speculations have been shared online in different media reports.

The Vivo V40 series was largely similar to the V30 series. This means we can assume the Vivo V50 Series will be expected to offer similar features with some potential upgrades.

The Smartprix report has confirmed that network tests are currently underway to ensure smooth performance.

Vivo aims to deliver a refined user experience by rigorously testing these devices.

Based on Vivo’s typical approach, the V50 series could bring enhancements in camera sensors, fast charging and processing power.

Some additional improvements can be expected in the V40e model as well.

However, it is important to note that these are merely speculations and unconfirmed reports even though there are chances that Vivo will follow a similar upgrade pattern.

As for the lunch timeline, we can take a guess by looking at Vivo’s recent launch pattern. The Vivo V30 debuted in February 2024, while the Vivo V40 series followed in June 2024.

If Vivo continues with this launch timeline trend, we could see the global launch of the Vivo V50 as early as February 2025.

As for the Vivo V50e, which typically launches four months later than the main model.

However, an official announcement can happen in the first quarter of 2025.

As 2025 approaches, we can expect more details to emerge about the features and launch of the Vivo V50 series.

FAQs

Q1. What models are included in the upcoming Vivo V50 Series?

Answer. According to Smartprix, Vivo is actively testing the V50 lineup, which will most likely include the Vivo V50 and V50e models.

Q2. What enhancements can be expected in the Vivo V50 Series?

Answer. Based on Vivo’s typical approach, the V50 series could bring enhancements in camera sensors, fast charging and processing power.

Q3. When is the expected launch timeline for the Vivo V50 Series?

Answer. The global launch of the Vivo V50 is anticipated around February 2025, with the Vivo V50e model possibly following four months later.

Q4. What are the model numbers of Vivo V50 Series models?

Answer. The two models spotted in the online database were Vivo V50 and V50e models with model numbers V2427 and V2428, respectively.

Also Read : Vivo V40 vs Honor 200 5G vs OnePlus Nord 4: A Detailed Comparison

Also Read : Vivo V40 Pro with Zeiss Imaging System Goes on Sale Today: Check Price & Availability, Should You Buy the Phone?

Also Read : Vivo V40 Review: Vivo Partners with Zeiss to Get the Best Imaging Flagship

Leaked: Xiaomi 15 Ultra’s Internal Built Renders Reveal Camera Sensors

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Highlight

  • Xiaomi 15 Ultra phone’s internal design leaked.
  • The leaked image confirms a prominent camera bump and a visible wireless charging coil
  • It will feature a quad-camera system including a standout 200MP sensor with 4.3x optical zoom.
  • Other expected specs include a 6.7-inch 120Hz LTPO OLED screen, Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, 6,000mAh battery and HyperOS 2.0.
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Xiaomi 15 Ultra to feature a quad-camera system with top-tier sensor. (Image credit – Smartprix)

Xiaomi is gearing up to release its top camera smartphone the Xiaomi 15 Ultra aimed at photography enthusiasts.

As per previously leaked rumours, this flagship Xiaomi 15 Series model will boast a quad-camera system including a 50MP main sensor with a 23mm focal length and f/1.6 aperture, a 50MP ultrawide lens, a 50MP periscope lens with 3x zoom and a standout 200MP sensor with 4.3x optical zoom and a 100mm focal length.

Last month we got to see some leaked renders revealing a prominent camera bump to fit all the above-mentioned powerful lenses.

However, now a new image of the internal design of the Xiaomi 15 Ultra has surfaced on Weibo highlighting the substantial size of the sensors.

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Xiaomi 15 Ultra internal built leaked image on Weibo. (Image credit – Gizmchina/Weibo)

We can see from the recent image that the 200MP, 100mm periscope lens sits at the top of the camera module, with a secondary IMX858 telephoto sensor just below. The main and ultrawide cameras are aligned on each side.

The phone features a sturdy middle frame and a visible wireless charging coil confirming support for wireless charging.

Xiaomi 15 Ultra – Key Specs (Expected)

  • Display: A 6.7-inch 120Hz LTPO OLED screen with micro-curved edges featuring an ultrasonic in-display fingerprint sensor
  • Material Finishes: Available in plain leather, fibreglass and ceramic finishes to suit various styles
  • Processor: Expected to run on the latest Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset
  • Battery: Rumoured to house 6,000mAh battery supporting 90W wired and 80W wireless charging
  • Software: Set to launch with Xiaomi’s HyperOS 2.0 based on Android 15

The Xiaomi 15 Ultra may first launch in China in early 2025 with a global release likely at Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2025.

FAQs

Q1. What is the standout feature of the Xiaomi 15 Ultra’s camera system?

Answer. The Xiaomi 15 Ultra features a standout 200MP sensor with 4.3x optical zoom and a 100mm focal length.

Q2. What are the expected display and performance specs for the Xiaomi 15 Ultra?

Answer. The Xiaomi 15 Ultra is expected to have a 6.7-inch 120Hz LTPO OLED screen with micro-curved edges and run on the latest Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset.

Q3. What charging capabilities does the Xiaomi 15 Ultra support?

Answer. The Xiaomi 15 Ultra supports wireless charging and is expected to feature a 6,000mAh battery with 90W wired and 80W wireless charging.

Q4. When and where is the Xiaomi 15 Ultra expected to launch?

Answer. The Xiaomi 15 Ultra is expected to launch in China in early 2025, with a global release likely at Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2025.

Also Read : Xiaomi 15 & Xiaomi 15 Pro launched with Snapdragon 8 Elite; Xiaomi Pad 7 and Pad 7 Pro introduced

Also Read : Xiaomi CEO shares key insights about Xiaomi 15 series and 16 new products ahead of 29th October launch

Samsung Galaxy A36 and A56 Expected in Early 2025, Galaxy A36 Camera Specs Revealed

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Highlights

  • Samsung is expected to launch both Galaxy A36 and A56 soon after the Galaxy S25 series release.
  • The Galaxy A36 is expected to feature a 50-megapixel main rear camera and a 12-megapixel selfie camera.
  • Other leaks suggest it will run on Android 15 with 6 GB of RAM.
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Galaxy A36 render leaked recently. (Image credit – OneLeaks on X/Giznext/Gizmochina)

While everyone is focused on the upcoming Galaxy S25 series releases in early 2025, Samsung is simultaneously gearing up to release its next generation of mid-range Galaxy A-series phones. As per reports, both Galaxy A36 and A56 will arrive soon after the Galaxy S25 series launch.

This expected timeline aligns with the release calendar Samsung followed for last year’s Galaxy A35 and A55 launched shortly after the Galaxy S24 in March 2024.

While the exact launch date or other details are yet to be revealed, a report from GalaxyClub has offered a first look at the camera specs for the Galaxy A36. Here’s everything we are hearing.

Samsung Galaxy A36 – Expected Camera Specs

Galaxy A36: 50MP rear & 12MP selfie cameras

The Galaxy A36 is expected to keep a 50-megapixel main rear camera like its predecessor.

However, there’s a notable change on the front which could be a 12-megapixel selfie camera, replacing the previous 13-megapixel sensor.

While this might seem like a downgrade, the source suggests it may actually be an upgrade in quality, with a “clear improvement compared to the old 13 MP sensor that Samsung used for the previous A3x devices.”

Samsung seems to be distinguishing the A36 from the A56 in more ways than one. The A36’s 12-megapixel front camera isn’t expected to match the 12-megapixel sensor on the A56 reinforcing the A56’s position as the more premium option in this lineup.

Details are still under wraps for the macro and ultrawide lenses. They will most likely remain consistent with the Galaxy A35, featuring a 5-megapixel macro and an 8-megapixel ultrawide camera.

According to Gizmochina, this approach fits Samsung’s habit of focusing on incremental upgrades rather than a complete overhaul each year.

Samsung Galaxy A36 – Other Design and Features

Leaks of the Galaxy A36 hint at a design upgrade.

As per rumours, the A36 might sport a more cohesive camera island giving it a refined look instead of individual camera lenses.

The A36 has also appeared on Geekbench, suggesting it will come with a Qualcomm processor, likely the Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 or 7s Gen 2.

Benchmark tests show 6 GB of RAM, and the device is expected to run on Android 15, providing the latest software features and performance boosts.

While we have no updates about the pricing strategy Samsung might follow, it’s likely to fall between €350 and €400 keeping it competitive in the mid-range market.

FAQs

Q1. When will Samsung release the Galaxy A36 and A56?

Answer. Samsung plans to release the Galaxy A36 and A56 soon after the Galaxy S25 series following the previous release pattern.

Q2. What are the expected camera specs for the Galaxy A36?

Answer. The Galaxy A36 is expected to feature a 50-megapixel main rear camera and a 12-megapixel selfie camera, with potential macro and ultrawide lenses remaining consistent with the Galaxy A35.

Q3. What processor is rumoured to be in the Galaxy A36?

Answer. The Galaxy A36 has appeared on Geekbench suggesting it will come with a Qualcomm processor, likely the Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 or 7s Gen 2.

Q4. What design and feature updates are expected for the Galaxy A36?

Answer. Leaks hint at a design upgrade with a more cohesive camera island and potential design refinement. The device is expected to run on Android 15 and have 6 GB of RAM.

Also Read : Samsung Galaxy A06 Launched in India Starting at Rs 9,999: Features & Specifications

Also Read : Samsung Galaxy A55 5G & Galaxy A35 5G with Circle to Search Now Available Starting at INR 25,999

Google Maps To Delete Timeline Location History If Users “Take No Action”

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Highlights

  • Google is changing its Maps location-tracking feature.
  • It will only save the last three months of location history on your device.
  • Will delete older data permanently.
  • Users must act by November 19 to save their Timeline data
  • To save location history, use Google Takeout or the new export option under device settings.
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Google Maps Timeline data older than three months will be deleted. (Photo by Henry Perks on Unsplash)

If you attach some sentimental value to your Google Maps Timeline location history, it is time you take action before Google deletes your history forever.

Google is making changes to its Maps location-tracking feature, which will erase much of your past location history unless you take steps to save it soon.

By default, only the last three months of your location history will be saved on your device, with older data deleted permanently.

Google announced its plans to shift Timeline data from cloud storage to on-device storage last year in December 2023.

It was reported that the change will happen by the end of 2024. However, some users are now reportedly receiving emails warning them to act by November 19 to save their Timeline data.

In its recent report, Android Authority shared screenshots of an email received by one of its team members, Adamya Sharma.

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Screenshots of Google Maps email to some users about the November 19 deadline for Timeline change. (Image credit – Android Authority)

Google Maps Timeline tracks your past locations on a map showing where you’ve been over time.

This feature was first introduced in 2015 for Android users and in 2017 for iOS users. It allows users to keep safe nearly a decade of location data.

How to Save Your Google Maps Timeline Data?

If you want to keep your location history beyond the last three months, the email from Google should include a link to save it. However, some users report that using this link has wiped their history, so consider an alternative method to back up your data.

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Google’s email to users warning about the change has a link to change settings. (Screenshot credit – Android Authority)

A way to save your Timeline data is through Google Takeout:

  • Go to takeout.google.com.
  • De-select all except Location History (Timeline).
  • Select Next step > Create export.

Moreover, Google is slowly adding an option to export Timeline data directly from your device under Settings > Location > Location services > Timeline. However, this export feature seems to apply only to data on that specific device rather than your entire Timeline history.

FAQs

Q1. What changes is Google making to its Maps location-tracking feature?

Answer. Google will only save the last three months of your location history on your device, with older data being deleted permanently.

Q2. When do users need to act to save their Google Maps Timeline data?

Answer. Users must act by November 19 to save their Timeline data, as Google has warned in emails sent to some users.

Q3. How can users save their Google Maps Timeline data?

Answer. Users can save their location history using Google Takeout by visiting takeout.google.com, de-selecting all except Location History (Timeline), and selecting Next step > Create export. Alternatively, they can use the new export option under device settings: Settings > Location > Location services > Timeline.

Also Read : Google Maps Rolls Out Real-Time Air Quality Index Feature to 100 Countries

Also Read : Google Maps Get Major Updates: Sharper Imagery, Better View with Android Auto, Making Lane Guidance Easier

Google Maps Rolls Out Real-Time Air Quality Index Feature to 100+ Countries

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Highlights

  • Google Maps has expanded its Air Quality Index (AQI) feature to over 100 countries
  • It allows users to check real-time air quality levels.
  • The AQI data on Google Maps is updated hourly and is colour-coded.
  • Users can access the AQI by updating Google Maps to its latest app version.
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Google Maps shows the air quality index. (Screenshot credit – @shubham1992105 on X)

Air quality is now a national issue in India and in many surrounding nations especially around this time of the year.

The deteriorating air quality increases the risk of respiratory infections, heart disease, stroke, and lung cancer along with several other health conditions.

It is the Air Quality Index (AQI) data that is often used as a tool to understand how bad the conditions actually are.

In India, CPCB has developed a national AQI. However, now you can even get your area’s AQI from Google Maps.

Google Maps has rolled out its Air Quality Index (AQI) feature to over 100 more countries expanding beyond India.

This tool lets users check average air quality levels for their current area or travel destinations.

Some users on X (previously Twitter) shared screenshots of the new Google Maps feature.

Besides the AQI data, Google also provides helpful tips based on the latest conditions.

The data is updated every hour, with a scale from 0 to 500—0-50 meaning good air quality, while 401-500 signals severe pollution.

The breakdown of the Google Maps AQI categories is as follows –

  • 0-50: Good
  • 51-100: Satisfactory
  • 101-200: Moderate
  • 201-300: Poor
  • 301-400: Very Poor
  • 401-500: Severe

The Google Map’s AQI readings are colour-coded for easy reference where green is for good air quality and red is for severe pollution.

This feature can be useful for monitoring air quality and if conditions are poor, considering steps like using air purifiers.

Here’s how to check the AQI for your area:

Google Maps has introduced a new feature to allow users in over 100 countries, including India, to check real-time air quality levels.
  • Open Google Maps and ensure your app is updated to the latest app version.
  • Enter the location you want to check in the search bar.
  • When the location appears, look for the “stack” icon below the search bar and tap it.

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  • A menu will open with options like ‘Public Transport,’ ‘Traffic,’ ‘Street View,’ and ‘Air Quality.’

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  • Select ‘Air Quality’ to view the AQI for that area.
  • You can also tap anywhere on the map to get AQI for specific locations.

The AQI updates every hour, which can be helpful for users to check real-time air quality anywhere in the world at any time.

For instance, Delhi’s air quality is currently marked as “Severe” with an AQI of around 397 posing health risks, especially for those with respiratory issues. With such high AQI levels, it’s recommended to stay indoors, limit physical activities and use air purifiers when possible.

FAQS

Q1. How can users check the AQI for their area using Google Maps?

Answer. Open Google Maps and ensure your app is updated to the latest version. Enter the location in the search bar, tap the “stack” icon below the search bar, and select the ‘Air Quality’ option to view the AQI for that area.

Q2. How often is the AQI data updated on Google Maps?

Answer. The AQI data on Google Maps is updated every hour allowing users to check real-time air quality anywhere in the world at any time.

Q3. How are the AQI readings colour-coded on Google Maps?

Answer. The Google Maps AQI readings are colour-coded for easy reference: green indicates good air quality, while red signals severe pollution.

Also Read : Google shows warning on business profiles with fake reviews in Google Maps

Also Read : Google Maps get major updates: Sharper imagery, better view with Android Auto making lane guidance easier

YouTube Launches AI Song Remix Feature for Short Creators

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Highlights

  • YouTube launched the Dream Track feature.
  • It will help creators remix existing songs into new 30-second tracks for Shorts using AI.
  • Creators can choose a song, describe their remix idea and AI will generate a reimagined track.
  • The tool is powered by Google DeepMind’s Lyria model.
  • The feature has expanded to all US creators for now.
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YouTube Dream Track feature is powered by Google DeepMind’s Lyria model. (Photo by Christian Wiediger on Unsplash)

The tech world is increasingly becoming all about AI. Every player is in a race to make sure their platform has maximum AI features.

YouTube is one such platform that has been experimenting with AI in almost all aspects, starting from the AI-generated comments section to AI-powered editing features.

Recently, the platform has launched a new AI song remix feature to help creators with easy YouTube Shorts creation.

Here’s what we know about the new feature.

According to a post on the YouTube community, the platform is now adding a Dream Track experimental feature that will allow select creators to remix existing songs into new 30-second tracks for their Shorts.

Using its AI-driven Dream Track tool, creators in the test group can choose an eligible song, describe their remix idea like changing the genre or mood and let AI create a fresh version.

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New feature update shared on YouTube community.

According to YouTube, the tool generates a “reimagined” track that “maintains the essence of the original song’s vocals and lyrics.” The remixed soundtracks will show clear attribution to the original song within the Short and on the Shorts audio page, along with an indication that AI was used to create the remix.

YouTube explained in its announcement. “These restyled soundtracks will have clear attribution to the original song through the Short itself and the Shorts audio pivot page, and will also clearly indicate that the track was restyled with AI.”

YouTube creators can now make AI song remixes for Shorts

Originally launched in November 2023 and powered by Google DeepMind’s Lyria model, Dream Track has allowed a group of US creators to produce music using the AI-generated voices of artists.

Since then, the feature has expanded to all US creators.

The AI-generated voices of artists who have chosen to participate thanks to the partnership with Universal Music Group include artists like Alec Benjamin, Charlie Puth, Charli XCX, Demi Lovato, John Legend, Papoose, Sia, T-Pain and Troye Sivan.

FAQs

Q1. What is YouTube’s new AI song remix feature?

Answer. YouTube’s new AI song remix feature, called Dream Track, allows select creators to remix existing songs into new 30-second tracks for their Shorts by describing their remix idea to the AI, which then creates a fresh version while maintaining the essence of the original song.

Q2. How does Dream Track ensure attribution to the original song?

Answer. The remixed soundtracks generated by Dream Track show clear attribution to the original song within the Short and on the Shorts audio page, along with an indication that AI was used to create the remix.

Q3. Which AI is used for YouTube track remix features?

Answer. YouTube Dream Track feature is powered by Google DeepMind’s Lyria model.

Q4. Which artists’ AI-generated voices are available for YouTube Dream Track?

Answer. Dream Track includes AI-generated voices from artists like Alec Benjamin, Charlie Puth, Charli XCX, Demi Lovato, John Legend, Papoose, Sia, T-Pain and Troye Sivan.

Also Read : YouTube Music Rolls Out Speed Dial & Updates Menus on Android & iOS

Also Read : YouTube Hyperlinked Comments Getting a Wider Rollout on Mobile App

Also Read : YouTube’s New AI Comment Reply Feature Sparks Concerns

Xbox PC Gaming Handheld Device Still a Few Years Away: Xbox Chief

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Highlights

  • Xbox Chief said the company is exploring prototypes for an Xbox handheld device.
  • The device is still a few years away.
  • The focus is currently on improving the Xbox app experience.
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Microsoft experimenting with Xbox handheld PC gaming prototypes. (Photo by Glenn Carstens-Peters on Unsplash)

Although there are plenty of PC-based handheld consoles that support Xbox apps and Game Pass, fans have always wondered when Microsoft will develop a dedicated Xbox handheld of its own.

We have previously read about the company developing something similar but no official sources have ever revealed any details. Now, a tiny hint is coming directly from the horse’s mouth.

Xbox Chief Phil Spencer recently shared insights with Bloomberg explaining how Microsoft is experimenting with prototypes and planning for a product in the segment. “[The] expectation is that we would do something [in that category],” Spencer said.

Focus shifts to enhancing the Xbox app experience

However, Spencer also maintained that an Xbox handheld is still a few years away. He noted that the Xbox team is currently focused on improving the Xbox app experience on existing handhelds, which he admits is “good but not great” on some devices.

Spencer further hinted that innovation is on the horizon. He was quoted in multiple media reports saying, “Longer term, I love us building devices. And I think our team could do some real innovative work, but we want to be informed by learning and what’s happening now.”

He also expressed optimism about more open platforms giving both users and creators greater choice: “I think the ball is moving in the right direction…you see the momentum, right?”

Android Authority in one of its recent reports highlighted that one ongoing challenge for Windows-based handhelds is their compatibility with controller-based gameplay.

This has often been hindered by Windows’ less-than-ideal user interface for controllers and it is a problem Microsoft will need to address for a dedicated handheld.

Earlier this year in an interview with IGN’s Ryan McCaffrey, Spencer spoke of a potential Xbox gaming handheld PC device. Spencer was quoted, “So we should have handheld? I think we should have a handheld, too!” When asked more about the project, Spencer added, “The future for us in hardware is pretty awesome. And the work that the team is doing around different form factors, different ways to play, I’m incredibly excited about it.”

He also praised handheld devices like the Asus ROG Ally, Lenovo Legion Go, and Steam Deck mentioning that if Xbox were to create its own handheld, local play would be an important feature to include. “I’ll put it this way: I like my ROG Ally, my Lenovo Legion Go – fantastic – my Steam Deck. I think being able to play games locally is really important,” Spencer said.

In any case, we know very little about Microsoft’s hardware projects and it remains to be seen what unique features an Xbox handheld could offer.

FAQs

Q1. When can we expect an Xbox handheld device from Microsoft?

Answer. According to Xbox Chief Phil Spencer, an Xbox handheld device is still a few years away, as the company is currently focused on improving the Xbox app experience on existing handhelds.

Q2. What did Phil Spencer say about the Xbox handheld device?

Answer. Xbox Chief Phil Spencer mentioned that Microsoft is experimenting with prototypes and planning for a product in the handheld segment, with the expectation to eventually build devices.

Q3. What are some popular handheld gaming devices?

Answer. Popular handheld devices include the Asus ROG Ally, Lenovo Legion Go and Steam Deck.

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Read More: Confirmed: Xbox Exclusive ‘Avowed’ Delayed to 2025

Meta Planning on Introducing Ads on Threads Soon: Report

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Highlights

  • Meta plans to introduce ads to its text app Threads early next year.
  • A small number of advertisers will start in January.
  • Threads’ ads will be led by Instagram’s advertising team.
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Threads to add ads on its platform by early next year, as per recent reports. (Photo by Dave Adamson on Unsplash)

Once you are online, you cannot run away from targeted online advertising for long. Online advertising is a rapid strategy that any online platform adopts to effectively benefit from its user base.

Some platforms start as ad-free but have to make the decision in the course of their journey. It appears the next platform to finally make the big change will be Meta’s Threads.

Here’s what recent rumours reveal.

According to Sylvia Varnham O’Regan and Kalley Huang from The Information, “Meta Platforms plans to introduce advertisements to its text app, Threads, early next year, hoping to cash in on the app’s rapid growth, according to three people with direct knowledge of the company’s plans.”

The Information report further adds, “A team inside Instagram’s advertising division is leading the effort, which is still in the early stages, the people said. Threads is planning to kick off the effort by letting a small number of advertisers create and publish ads on the app starting in January, one of those people said.”

It was inevitable that Threads would eventually include ads since any social media platform typically relies on ads to generate revenue. However, the timing of this news could be challenging for Meta.

Since Elon Musk took over Twitter and rebranded the platform to X last year, many Twitter users have been searching for an alternative.

Meta’s Threads has become that alternative for a lot of people.

However, ads are a major change for users and it will be interesting to see how Threads execute appearances of ads in users’ feeds.

X has recently seen an increase in users leaving the platform partly due to Elon Musk’s growing political activity. This has opened the door for alternatives like Bluesky and Threads to gain more users.

According to reports, it will be Instagram’s ad team that will be overseeing the ads departments on Threads. This can be good news since Instagram is known for delivering well-curated ads and this team might help ensure a smoother ad experience on Threads.

FAQs

Q1. When is Meta planning to introduce advertisements on Threads?

Answer. Meta Platforms plans to introduce advertisements to its text app Threads early next year with a small number of advertisers starting in January.

Q2. Who is leading the advertising effort for Threads?

Answer. A team inside Instagram’s advertising division is leading the effort to introduce ads on Threads.

Q3. Why are advertisements being introduced on Threads?

Answer. Social media platform typically relies on ads to generate revenue. Threads is hoping to cash in on the app’s rapid growth, according to three people with direct knowledge of the company’s plans.

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Also Read : Meta Testing Feature to Cross-Post Instagram Reels on Threads

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