Instagram is testing a dislike button specifically for comments on both Feed posts and Reels.
It won’t show dislike counts publicly but will help rank comments.
The feature aims to improve comment quality by allowing users to downvote irrelevant or distasteful comments.
It’s currently available to a limited group of users.
You will be able to dislike unpleasant comments on Instagram. (Photo by Souvik Banerjee on Unsplash)
It appears we are not down with the dislike buttons even after several platforms tried and failed to implement it successfully. Instagram is now experimenting with a new dislike button, although the catch is that it’s not for posts or Reels but it’s just for the comments.
The platform says this feature will help users downvote irrelevant or distasteful comments, making conversations more positive.
How Dislike Button for Instagram Comments Will Work?
The dislike button is currently being tested on both Feed posts and Reels. However, Instagram won’t show dislike counts publicly. Instead, as Instagram head Adam Mosseri explained on Threads, dislikes will help rank comments, similar to Reddit’s downvote system.
View on Threads
“This gives people a private way to signal that they don’t feel good about that particular comment. […] Our hope is that this might help make comments more friendly on Instagram,” Mosseri wrote.
A Meta spokesperson echoed this telling TechCrunch that the main goal of the feature is to improve comment quality. As of now, it’s just a small test available to a limited group of users, but Instagram could expand it in the future.
“We’re working on ways to help people better control their Instagram experience and what they’re seeing on the app,” a company spokesperson said. “We’re testing a new button next to each comment on a Reel or Feed post for people to privately signal they don’t feel good about that particular comment or find it relevant. We’re testing this with a very small group of people to start. Later, we may also test moving these comments lower down in the comments section to help create a better experience,” they added.
Instagram has been making a lot of updates lately as the platform is working on a video-editing app that looks very similar to TikTok’s editing tool CapCut. It also extended Reels to three minutes, another move that seems inspired by TikTok.
In another big change, Instagram recently removed third-party fact-checkers, though the company didn’t provide a clear reason beyond citing concerns about freedom.
FAQs
Q1. What is Instagram testing with the new dislike button?
Answer. Instagram is testing a dislike button specifically for comments on both Feed posts and Reels. The dislike counts won’t be shown publicly but will help rank comments similar to Reddit’s downvote system.
Q2. What is the purpose of the dislike button for Instagram comments?
Answer. The feature aims to improve comment quality by allowing users to downvote irrelevant or distasteful comments, making conversations more positive.
Q3. What new updates have Instagram made recently?
Answer. Instagram is developing a video-editing app similar to TikTok’s CapCut, extending Reels to three minutes, and has recently removed third-party fact-checkers citing concerns about freedom.
Xiaomi 15 Ultra captures video of SU7 Ultra setting lap record at Shanghai International Circuit.
SU7 Ultra sets another record as the fastest four-door car at Nürburgring Nordschleife.
Xiaomi 15 Ultra Camera features include a 50 MP main sensor, 50 MP ultrawide camera, 50 MP short-range telephoto and 200 MP periscope telephoto.
Xiaomi 15 Ultra was spotted on the TDRA database in the UAE ahead of its global launch on March 2, 2025.
Xiaomi 15 Ultra. (Image credit – Xiaomi)
Xiaomiis having an exciting month preparing to launch its 2025 flagship smartphone the Xiaomi 15 Ultra, alongside its high-performance electric sedan the SU7 Ultra. The company has been teasing both products and in its latest reveal, Xiaomi Mobile shared a video of the SU7 Ultra setting a lap record at the Shanghai International Circuit.
The video has been shot entirely on the Xiaomi 15 Ultra, showcasing the camera performance of the phone.
SU7 Ultra Breaks Another Record
The SU7 Ultra is making headlines again while setting the record as the fastest four-door car at the Nürburgring Nordschleife in October. It has now conquered the Shanghai International Circuit with a lap time of 2:09.994.
Xiaomi SU7 Ultra. (Image credit – Xiaomi)
Pre-orders for the SU7 Ultra began in October starting at CNY 814,900 (around $111,000). Deliveries will begin after the official debut later this month alongside the Xiaomi 15 Ultra.
Xiaomi has ambitious plans for its car division aiming to sell 300,000 vehicles this year including 10,000 SU7 Ultra units. If successful, this would double the company’s car sales from 2024, marking a major step forward in its automotive journey.
The Xiaomi 15 Ultra is a camera-focused device with a quad-camera setup at the back. It is expected to be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset and features –
50 MP main sensor (1-inch Sony LYT-900)
50 MP ultrawide camera
50 MP short-range telephoto
200 MP periscope telephoto (4.3x optical zoom)
With improved low-light performance and zoom capabilities, Xiaomi CEO Lei Jun has already shared night photography samples building anticipation.
The phone is rumoured to pack a massive 6,000 mAh battery with 90W wired and 50W wireless charging. However, the global version is launching at MWC Barcelona on March 2 and might feature a slightly smaller 5,410 mAh battery.
Xiaomi 15 Ultra Spotted on UAE Certification Platform
The Xiaomi 15 Ultra model was just spotted on the TDRA database. (Screenshot credit – TheTechoutlook)
Ahead of its global launch, the Xiaomi 15 Ultra has been spotted on the TDRA database in the UAE, confirming its availability in the region. The global model with model number 25010PN30G was listed, though the certification did not reveal details about its specs or design.
Xiaomi is set to officially unveil the Xiaomi 15 Ultra globally on March 2, 2025.
FAQs
Q1. What record did the SU7 Ultra set at the Shanghai International Circuit?
Answer. The SU7 Ultra set a lap record at the Shanghai International Circuit with a time of 2:09.994, making it the fastest four-door car at the circuit.
Q2. What are the main camera features of the Xiaomi 15 Ultra?
Answer. The Xiaomi 15 Ultra features a quad-camera setup at the back, including a 50 MP main sensor (1-inch Sony LYT-900), 50 MP ultrawide camera, 50 MP short-range telephoto, and 200 MP periscope telephoto (4.3x optical zoom). It showcases improved low-light performance and zoom capabilities.
Q3. When and where will the Xiaomi 15 Ultra be officially unveiled?
Answer. The Xiaomi 15 Ultra will be officially unveiled globally on March 2, 2025, at MWC Barcelona. It has also been spotted on the TDRA database in the UAE, confirming its availability in the region.
Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra has claimed the top spot in DXOMARK’s display rankings beating its predecessors and rivals. The flagship smartphone led both the global and ultra-premium categories scoring 160 points. Coming in second are Google’s Pixel 9 Pro XL and Pixel 9 Pro (158 points), followed by the Honor Magic 6 Pro, Galaxy S25+ and Galaxy S25, both scoring 157 points each.
Last year’s Galaxy S24 Ultra ranked lower at 155 points.
According to DXOMARK, the S25 Ultra excels in outdoor readability, thanks to its 2,600-nit peak brightness and anti-reflective coating. The phone remains easy to read even in bright sunlight.
However, it can appear a bit too bright in dim lighting.
Galaxy S25 Ultra – Colour Accuracy
The S25 Ultra improves on colour fidelity showing better accuracy in Faithful Mode than the S24 Ultra. It also reduces colour shifts at different angles. However, despite optimised blue-light management, higher emissions in night mode prevented it from receiving DXOMARK’s Eye Comfort label.
Galaxy S25 Ultra – Video Performance
Samsung has enhanced video playback, particularly in low-light conditions, where the S24 Ultra had struggles. The S25 Ultra’s HDR peak luminance in low light is now 24 nits, ensuring a comfortable and well-balanced viewing experience. The phone also maintains smooth local contrasts in dim environments and indoors.
Moreover, no frame drops were detected in playback tests.
Galaxy S25 Ultra – Touch Interaction
Touch response is smooth for web browsing and gallery navigation. However, occasional accidental touches and slightly slower responsiveness compared to some ultra-premium rivals were noted.
Samsung’s Upcoming Tri-Fold Phone
At the Galaxy S25 event, Samsung confirmed that it is working on a tri-fold phone set to launch in Q3 2025 alongside the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Galaxy Z Flip 7. Analyst Ross Young reports that the device will feature a 6.49-inch cover display and a 10-inch unfolded screen similar to the Z Fold 7’s cover display size.
FAQs
Q1. What is the DXOMARK display ranking score of the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra?
Answer. The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra scored 160 points in DXOMARK’s display rankings.
Q2. How does the Galaxy S25 Ultra perform in outdoor readability?
Answer. The S25 Ultra excels in outdoor readability, thanks to its 2,600-nit peak brightness and anti-reflective coating. It remains easy to read even in bright sunlight.
Q3. What improvements has the Galaxy S25 Ultra made in colour accuracy?
Answer. The S25 Ultra shows better colour accuracy in Faithful Mode than the S24 Ultra and reduces colour shifts at different angles. However, it did not receive the Eye Comfort label due to higher blue-light emissions in night mode.
Q4. What are Samsung’s plans for future smartphone releases?
Answer. Samsung confirmed that it is working on a tri-fold phone, set to launch in Q3 2025 featuring a 6.49-inch cover display and a 10-inch unfolded screen.
PM Modi met Elon Musk and gifted books to Musk’s children.
PM Modi and Musk discussed space, mobility, technology, innovation and India’s reform efforts.
The meeting also focused on strengthening India-U.S. collaboration in innovation, AI and sustainable development.
Maye Musk reacted positively to the meeting sharing videos on social media.
Musk gifted PM Modi a heat shield tile from SpaceX’s Starship Flight Test 5.
PM Narendra Modi gifted Panchatantra and these other books to Elon Musk’s kids. (Image credit – PM Modi on X)
During his visit to the U.S., Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk in Washington. Musk was joined by his girlfriend Shivon Zilis and their three children, Lil X, Azure and Strider.
After their meeting at the Blair House, PM Modi gifted Musk’s children three books including The Crescent Moon by Rabindranath Tagore, The Great RK Narayan Collection and Panchatantra by Pandit Vishnu Sharma.
Photos shared by PM Modi on X (formerly Twitter) showed Musk’s children reading the books. Modi wrote, “It was also a delight to meet Mr. @elonmusk’s family and to talk about a wide range of subjects!”
It was also a delight to meet Mr. @elonmusk’s family and to talk about a wide range of subjects! pic.twitter.com/0WTEqBaVpT
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 13, 2025
PM Modi & Elon Musk Discuss Key Global Topics
PM Modi shared another post saying, “Had a very good meeting with @elonmusk in Washington DC. We discussed various issues, including those he is passionate about such as space, mobility, technology, and innovation. I talked about India’s efforts towards reform and furthering ‘Minimum Government, Maximum Governance.”
Had a very good meeting with @elonmusk in Washington DC. We discussed various issues, including those he is passionate about such as space, mobility, technology and innovation. I talked about India’s efforts towards reform and furthering ‘Minimum Government, Maximum Governance.’ pic.twitter.com/7xNEqnxERZ
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 13, 2025
The meeting was attended by Indian External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval. According to a statement from India’s Ministry of External Affairs, the discussion focused on strengthening India-U.S. collaboration in innovation, artificial intelligence (AI) and sustainable development, as reported by PTI.
This meeting holds extra significance as it comes just weeks after Musk’s appointment by former U.S. President Donald Trump to lead the U.S. Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).
Elon Musk’s Mother Maye Musk Reacts to Her Son’s Meeting with PM Modi
Elon Musk’s mother Maye Musk also expressed her excitement about the meeting. She reposted a video of the event shared by Twitter user DogeDesigner, who wrote, “BREAKING: Elon Musk met with Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi today in Washington.” Quoting the post, Maye Musk wrote, “Love my grandchildren *heart emoji*,” adding three heart emojis.
Love my grandchildren ❤️❤️❤️
— Maye Musk (@mayemusk) February 13, 2025
She also shared another video posted by Sawyer Merritt, which showed Musk arriving at Blair House with his girlfriend and children. Merritt wrote, “Elon Musk has arrived for his meeting with India Prime Minister Modi.”
😍😍😍😍
— Maye Musk (@mayemusk) February 13, 2025
Elon Musk’s Gift to PM Modi
During their interaction, Musk gifted PM Modi a heat shield tile that flew on SpaceX’s Starship Flight Test 5 on October 12, 2024. The tile had an engraving that read, “Starship flight test 5, October 12, 2024.”
For those unfamiliar, Starship’s heat shield tiles are hexagonal ceramic tiles designed to protect the spacecraft during reentry when it faces extreme temperatures. These tiles are made of silica-based ceramic, similar to those used on NASA’s Space Shuttle.
Elon Musk himself responded to PM Modi’s post, writing, “It was an honor to meet.”
It was an honor to meet
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) February 14, 2025
A statement from the foreign ministry confirmed that PM Modi and Musk discussed expanding India-U.S. cooperation in space exploration, AI, sustainable development, entrepreneurship and governance.
FAQs
Q1. What books did PM Modi gift to Elon Musk’s children?
Answer. PM Modi gifted Musk’s children three books including “The Crescent Moon” by Rabindranath Tagore, “The Great RK Narayan Collection” and “Panchatantra” by Pandit Vishnu Sharma.
Q2. What key topics did PM Modi and Elon Musk discuss during their meeting?
Answer. PM Modi and Elon Musk discussed various issues including space, mobility, technology, innovation, and India’s efforts towards reform. They also focused on strengthening India-U.S. collaboration in innovation, AI and sustainable development.
Q3. What was Elon Musk’s gift to PM Modi?
Answer. Elon Musk gifted PM Modi a heat shield tile that flew on SpaceX’s Starship Flight Test 5 on October 12, 2024. The tile had an engraving that read, “Starship flight test 5, October 12, 2024.”
ProWatch X with a 1.43-inch AMOLED touchscreen launched in India at Rs 4,499.
It offers VO2 Max measurement, body energy monitoring, HRV tracking, post-workout recovery analysis and aerobic training effect.
It will be available on Flipkart starting February 21 with a Rs 1,000 discount for pre-orders.
Other features – Corning Gorilla Glass 3, IP68 dust and water resistance, built-in GPS, altimeter, barometer and compass.
ProWatch X will soon start selling in the Indian market. (Image credit – ProWatch)
Lava’s sub-brand ProWatch has introduced the ProWatch X in India. This new smartwatch focuses on advanced fitness tracking including VO2 Max measurement, which tracks oxygen consumption during high-intensity workouts. It also provides insights into post-workout recovery, helping users optimise their fitness routines.
Let’s take a closer look at its features, price, and availability.
ProWatch X – Price & Availability in India
The ProWatch X is priced at Rs 4,499 and comes with silicone, nylon and metal strap options. It will be exclusively available on Flipkart starting February 21.
Customers who pre-order between February 15 – 21 can avail an instant Rs 1,000 discount using any bank credit or debit card.
ProWatch X – Key Features
The ProWatch X sports a 1.43-inch AMOLED touchscreen with a circular design and Always-On Display support. For durability, the screen is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 3, while the body features a lightweight aluminium alloy frame with a sandblasted finish.
ProWatch X key features. (Image credit – ProWatch)
The smartwatchis packed with fitness-focused features offering a 360-degree fitness suite that tracks key workout metrics:
VO2 Max Measurement – Tracks oxygen consumption during intense workouts.
Body Energy Monitoring – Estimates energy levels during and after exercise.
Heart Rate Variability (HRV) Tracking – Provides cardiovascular health insights based on workout performance.
Post-Workout Recovery Analysis – Suggests optimal rest periods based on workout intensity.
Aerobic Training Effect – Measures workout endurance and effectiveness.
Moreover, it supports SpO2 monitoring and Heart Rate Tracking powered by the High Accuracy HX3690 PPG sensor. The watch includes 110+ sports modes with Intelligent Exercise Recognition, which automatically detects workouts. It runs on the Advanced Actions ATS3085C processor for efficient performance.
For outdoor enthusiasts, the ProWatch X includes the following –
Built-in GPS, Altimeter, Barometer and Compass for trekking and hiking.
IP68 dust and water resistance making it durable for different environments.
Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity for seamless pairing with smartphones.
Battery life of 8-10 days as claimed by the company.
Independent Techarc Study Confirms ProWatch X Accuracy
ProWatch X comes with Corning Gorilla Glass 3, IP68 dust and water resistance, built-in GPS and more. (Image credit – ProWatch)
Lava collaborated with a leading technology analytics firm Techarc for an independent benchmarking study. The research compared the ProWatch X with premium smartwatches focusing on fitness, activity and sleep tracking accuracy. The results showed that the ProWatch X offers near-identical accuracy proving that Lava is delivering high-quality, affordable wearables.
In an interview with MySmartPrice, Lava Category Head Accessories and Smart Devices Rajat Bhakri, shared insights on Lava’s smartwatch strategy, technological advancements and what consumers can expect next.
On consumer concerns regarding accuracy, Bhakri said, “As smartwatches evolve from style accessories to essential health and lifestyle companions, accuracy has become a critical factor influencing purchase decisions. As a consumer-first brand, we recognize that quality, accuracy, and reliability have been major concerns in the budget smartwatch category. Prowatch X is designed to bridge this gap, offering premium features, precision-driven results, and affordability. We have particularly focused on refining the software algorithms to ensure the best possible performance for tech and fitness enthusiasts.”
Moreover, highlighting the key findings of the study, Bhakri said, “This study, powered by InfiSights, analyzed over 5,000 consumer reviews in the ₹3,000-10,000 segment and benchmarked Prowatch X against both an industry leader (Apple Watch Ultra 2) and a segment competitor (CMF by Nothing Watch Pro 2) across key smartwatch adoption drivers: Fitness, Activity, and Sleep.”
“The results validate our commitment to delivering premium performance at an accessible price. Prowatch X closely matches the Apple Watch Ultra 2 in health tracking and navigation accuracy while outperforming CMF by Nothing Watch Pro 2 in key fitness metrics. It achieved an impressive 97% SpO₂ accuracy, putting it nearly at par with high-end smartwatches. Unlike the segment benchmark, it also offers VO₂ Max and Body Energy tracking, providing deeper health insights for users. Heart rate monitoring was highly accurate, delivering precise static and dynamic readings comparable to industry benchmarks. GPS performance was another standout, exceeding 98% accuracy, ensuring reliable fitness and activity tracking. Sleep tracking capabilities also demonstrated near-identical accuracy to the Apple Watch Ultra 2, effectively monitoring sleep stages, deep sleep, and REM cycles,” he further adds.
FAQs
Q1. What advanced fitness tracking features does the ProWatch X offer?
Answer. The ProWatch X offers VO2 Max measurement, body energy monitoring, HRV tracking, post-workout recovery analysis and aerobic training effect.
Q2. How much does the ProWatch X cost and where can I buy it?
Answer. The ProWatch X is priced at Rs 4,499 and will be available on Flipkart starting February 21. Customers who pre-order between February 15 – 21 can avail an instant Rs 1,000 discount using any bank credit or debit card.
Q3. What are the key outdoor features of the ProWatch X?
Answer. The ProWatch X includes built-in GPS, altimeter, barometer, compass, IP68 dust and water resistance, and a battery life of 8-10 days.
Q4. What is the display size and design of the ProWatch X?
Answer. The ProWatch X sports a 1.43-inch AMOLED touchscreen with a circular design and Always-On Display support. The screen is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 3 and the body features a lightweight aluminium alloy frame with a sandblasted finish.
Q5. What did the independent Techarc study reveal about the ProWatch X?
Answer. The Techarc study showed that the ProWatch X offers near-identical accuracy in fitness, activity and sleep tracking compared to premium smartwatches.
Oppo A3i Plus was introduced in China at 1,299 yuan (approx $179 or INR 15,513) for the 12GB + 256GB variant.
Features – 6.7-inch AMOLED display, Snapdragon 695 processor, 12GB RAM, 50MP primary camera and 5000mAh battery with 45W Super Flash Charging.
Available in Pine Green, Crystal Purple and Ink Black
Pre-orders live with sales starting on February 17.
Oppo A3i Plus is officially out in China for pre-orders. (Image credit – Oppo)
Oppohas introduced the Oppo A3i Plus in China expanding its A-series lineup. However, this new model is reportedly a rebranded version of the Oppo A3 with the same specifications and design.
The smartphone boasts a similar AMOLED display, a Snapdragon 695 processor and a durable build. It is currently available for pre-order with official sales starting on February 17.
Here’s a quick look at the newly unveiled device.
Oppo A3i Plus – Key Features
The Oppo A3i Plus features a 6.7-inch AMOLED display with a 2412×1080 resolution, a 120Hz refresh rate and a 93.7% screen-to-body ratio. It delivers a peak brightness of 1200 nits ensuring clear visibility even under sunlight.
Moreover, the screen remains responsive even when touched with wet or oily hands.
Oppo A3i Plus official images. (Image credit – Oppo)
Powering the device is the Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 chipset, paired with 12GB of RAM, which can be expanded virtually by another 12GB. Storage options include 256GB and 512GB utilising Oppo’s lossless compression technology for efficient space management.
Running on ColorOS 14, the phone introduces features like real-time voice enhancement for calls, AI-powered image extraction and an improved cloud-based UI for a smoother experience. The software also includes advanced power management to optimise battery life.
For photography, the Oppo A3i Plus sports a 50MP primary sensor and a 2MP portrait lens on the back. The camera system supports AI-enhanced portrait mode, night photography and fast-capture technology for high-quality images. On the front, there’s an 8MP selfie camera with AI-based software enhancements for clearer self-portraits.
It comes with a strong battery life of 5,000mAh that offers all-day usage along with 45W Super Flash Charging support, which is capable of reaching 50% charge in just 30 minutes. Oppo claims the battery retains efficiency for over four years. The device is also designed to function in extreme temperatures, with real-time temperature control during charging.
For durability, the Oppo A3i Plus features shock-absorbing corners, Crystal Shield Glass and SGS Gold Five-Star drop resistance certification ensuring better protection against accidental drops.
Oppo A3i Plus – Pricing and Availability
Oppo A3i Plus colour variants. (Image credit – Oppo)
The Oppo A3i Plus is available in Pine Green, Crystal Purple and Ink Black colour options. It comes in two variants, which include –
12GB+256GB – 1,299 yuan (approx $179 or INR 15,513)
12GB+512GB – 1,499 yuan (approx $206 or INR 17,853)
Pre-orders are currently live on JD.com and Oppo’s official store with the official sale starting on February 17 at 10:00 AM.
FAQs
Q1. What is the display size and resolution of the Oppo A3i Plus?
Answer. The Oppo A3i Plus features a 6.7-inch AMOLED display with a 2412×1080 resolution.
Q2. Which processor does the Oppo A3i Plus use?
Answer. The device is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 chipset.
Q3. What are the key camera features of the Oppo A3i Plus?
Answer. The Oppo A3i Plus sports a 50MP primary sensor and a 2MP portrait lens on the back, with AI-enhanced portrait mode and night photography. It also has an 8MP front camera with AI-based software enhancements.
Q4. How much RAM and storage does the Oppo A3i Plus offer?
Answer. The phone comes with 12GB of RAM, expandable virtually by another 12GB, and storage options of 256GB and 512GB.
Q5. What is the battery capacity and charging capability of the Oppo A3i Plus?
Answer. The Oppo A3i Plus has a 5,000mAh battery with 45W Super Flash Charging, capable of reaching 50% charge in just 30 minutes.
The Reliance-Disney joint venture will stop free IPL streaming in India.
It will likely shift to a hybrid subscription model with a new rebranded streaming app.
The new app will offer subscription plans starting at ₹149 ($1.72) for basic access.
JioCinema currently holds streaming rights for IPL, Winter Olympics and the Indian Super League.
Reliance-Disney joint venture will reportedly have subscriptions after the initial free viewing model for IPL cricket streaming. (Image credit – Disney+ Hotstar/JioCinema)
The Reliance-Disney joint venture is set to discontinue completely free IPL streaming in India, according to recent reports. Three different sources told Reuters that the platform may shift to a hybrid model where users will need a subscription after a certain threshold.
One of the sources confirmed that the joint venture will also launch a rebranded streaming app with subscription plans starting at ₹149 as part of this change.
The decision comes after Mukesh Ambani’s Reliance and Walt Disney merged their India media businesses in an $8.5 billion deal last year. Since securing IPL streaming rights for $3 billion in 2023, JioCinema has been offering free streaming, making the tournament accessible to millions. However, under the new model, IPL and other content will remain free for a limited period after which users will be prompted to subscribe based on their viewing habits.
“Once a user develops affinity to the platform, starts watching for free, becomes loyal … the subscription will kick in then,” said one of the sources to Reuters. This means each user’s subscription trigger point may vary depending on their consumption.
The new rebranded streaming app will introduce a basic plan for ₹149 ($1.72) and an ad-free version for ₹499 ($5.75) for three months, the source further added.
The Reliance-Disney venture operates over 100 TV channels and streaming platforms in India’s $28-billion media and entertainment industry, competing with Netflix and Amazon Prime. JioCinema currently holds streaming rights for IPL, the Winter Olympics and the Indian Super League, while Disney’s Hotstar has rights to International Cricket Council (ICC) tournaments and the English Premier League.
Media industry veteran Vice Chairman Uday Shankar, known for his role in the success of Disney’s Hotstar app, is currently leading the key decisions for the venture.
FAQs
Q1. What changes are being made to IPL streaming on the Reliance-Disney platform?
Answer. The Reliance-Disney joint venture is set to discontinue completely free IPL streaming in India, shifting to a hybrid model where users will need a subscription after a certain threshold.
Q2. What are the subscription plans for the new rebranded Disney-Jio streaming app?
Answer. The new rebranded streaming app will offer subscription plans starting at ₹149 ($1.72) for a basic plan and ₹499 ($5.75) for an ad-free version for three months.
Q3. Which streaming rights does JioCinema currently hold?
Answer. JioCinema currently holds streaming rights for IPL, the Winter Olympics, and the Indian Super League.
Google is celebrating the 2025 Women’s Premier League season with a cricket-themed Doodle.
It features animated birds playing cricket and linking to an interactive Mini Cup game.
The ‘Mini Cup’ game allows players to face off against a quirky bird bowler.
The WPL 2025 season begins on February 14 with a match between Gujarat Giants and Royal Challengers Bengaluru.
The season will take place across Vadodara, Lucknow, Mumbai and Bengaluru.
Google Doodle, WPL 2025. (Image credit – Google)
Cricketis a passion in India and over the years the Women’s Premier League (WPL) has built its own loyal fanbase. As the 2025 season kicks off on February 14, Google is celebrating the occasion with a fun, cricket-themed Google Doodle.
The artwork features two animated birds playing cricket on a pitch, complete with a bat, ball and stumps, capturing the excitement of the game. Clicking on the Doodle takes users to Google’s interactive ‘Mini Cup’ game, created specially for the tournament.
In this lighthearted game designed to celebrate the never-ending buzz around the game of Cricket in India, players step into the role of a batter facing off against a quirky bird bowler. The goal is simply to tap the screen to swing the bat and score as many runs as possible before the game ends.
Google Doodle’s Mini Cup for WPL 2025. (Image credit – Google)
The welcome screen teases the challenge and reads, “Ready to play in the Mini Cup? Join fans worldwide to protect your wicket and score runs before each game ends. Watch out! You’re up against a real wicket-taker.”
Alongside the game, Google also provides the full WPL 2025 schedule, making it a fun and interactive way for fans to keep track of the tournament.
This season of the Women’s Premier League kicks off with an exciting clash between Gujarat Giants and defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru. The action starts in Vadodara, marking the beginning of the third edition of the league. The tournament will then move across four cities, which include Vadodara, Lucknow, Mumbai and Bengaluru, bringing top-tier women’s cricket to fans across the country.
FAQs
Q1. How is Google celebrating the 2025 Women’s Premier League (WPL) season?
Answer. Google is celebrating the 2025 WPL season with a cricket-themed Doodle featuring animated birds playing cricket and linking to an interactive Mini Cup game.
Q2. What is the Mini Cup game on Google’s Doodle?
Answer. The ‘Mini Cup’ game allows players to step into the role of a batter facing off against a quirky bird bowler, with the goal of scoring as many runs as possible.
Q3. When does the WPL 2025 season begin?
Answer. The WPL 2025 season kicks off on February 14.
Q4. Which teams are playing in the opening match of the WPL 2025 season?
Answer. The opening match of the WPL 2025 season is between Gujarat Giants and defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru.
Q5. In which cities WPL 2025 games will be played?
Answer. The tournament this year will be played across four cities, which include Vadodara, Lucknow, Mumbai and Bengaluru.
WhatsApp’s latest update introduces chat themes, customisable chat bubbles and 30 new wallpapers.
Users can change both the background and chat bubble colours or mix and match them.
They can set a theme for all chats or personalise each one individually.
Customisations will only be visible to the user.
The update is currently rolling out for both iOS and Android users and should be available globally.
New WhatsApp update introduces more personalisation features. (Image credit – WhatsApp)
WhatsAppis bringing some new personalisation options in its latest update announced in a blog post titled “Chat themes to reflect your style.” The update is currently rolling out for both iOS and Android users. This update introduces chat themes, customisable chat bubbles and 30 new wallpapers to make conversations more visually appealing. Here’s all we know.
With these new features, users can now change both the background and chat bubble colours or mix and match them to suit their mood.
The blog explains, “Turn your chat bubbles and background your favourite colours, with plenty of options to choose from. Pick from one of our pre-set chat themes which change both your background and bubbles or mix and match colours to best fit your style.”
The update also allows users to set a theme for all chats or personalise each one individually. However, these customisations will only be visible to the user, not their chat partners.
WhatsApp also gives users the option to upload their own wallpapers from their camera roll making each chat unique. “Add some fun to your chats by choosing from 30 new wallpaper options, or you can still upload a background from your camera roll to make them completely unique to you,” the blog post adds.
To try out the new themes, follow the below-mentioned steps –
iPhone users can go to Settings > Chats > Default Chat Theme or customise individual chats by tapping the chat name at the top.
Android users need to tap the three-dot menu and select “Chat theme” to access these options.
The update is rolling out globally over the next few weeks, so if you don’t see it yet, it should be available soon.
FAQs
Q1. What new personalisation options does WhatsApp’s latest update introduce?
Answer. The latest update introduces chat themes, customisable chat bubbles, and 30 new wallpapers to personalise conversations.
Q2. Can users set a theme for all chats or personalize each one individually?
Answer. Yes, users can set a theme for all chats or personalise each one individually. However, these customisations will only be visible to the user.
Q3. How can iPhone and Android users access the new chat themes?
Answer. iPhone users can go to Settings > Chats > Default Chat Theme or customise individual chats by tapping the chat name at the top. Android users need to tap the three-dot menu and select “Chat theme” to access these options.
Reliance Jio’s Rs 69 and Rs 139 data add-on plans now have their own 7-day validity.
Jio also bringing back the Rs 189 prepaid plan offering 28 days of validity, 2GB data, unlimited voice calls, and 300 SMS.
It also includes access to Jio services like JioTV and JioCinema.
It has reduced the price of its Rs 448 prepaid plan to Rs 445 offering 28 days of validity, 2GB daily data, unlimited calls, 100 SMS per day and access to multiple OTT platforms.
Reliance Jio has made changes to its popular Rs 69 and Rs 139 data add-on plans. Previously, these plans lasted as long as the user’s base recharge. However, they now come with their own standalone validity of 7 days. This means users will have only one week to use the data instead of relying on their base pack’s validity.
The Rs 69 plan still offers 6GB of high-speed data, while the Rs 139 plan provides 12 GB.
Once the data is used up, the speed drops to 64Kbps. These remain data-only plans, meaning they do not include voice calls or SMS benefits. However, users must have an active base plan for the add-ons to work.
Jio Brings Back Rs 189 Prepaid Plan
In addition to these changes, Jio has reintroduced the Rs 189 prepaid plan, which had been temporarily removed. It falls under Jio’s ‘affordable packs’ category and is aimed at users looking for basic connectivity.
This plan offers 28 days of validity, 2GB of total data (with reduced speed after usage), unlimited voice calls and 300 SMS. Subscribers also get access to Jio services like JioTV, JioCinema (excluding premium content) and JioCloud storage.
Jio Reduces Rs 448 Plan Price
Jiohas also cut the price of its Rs 448 prepaid plan to Rs 445. This plan includes 28 days of validity, 2GB of daily data, unlimited calls and 100 SMS per day.
Users can also stream content on multiple OTT platforms including Zee5, JioCinema Premium, SonyLIV and Lionsgate Play.
FAQs
Q1. What changes have been made to Reliance Jio’s Rs 69 and Rs 139 data add-on plans?
Answer. The Rs 69 and Rs 139 data add-on plans now have a standalone validity of 7 days instead of lasting as long as the user’s base recharge.
Q2. What are the details of the reintroduced Rs 189 prepaid plan by Jio?
Answer. The Rs 189 prepaid plan offers 28 days of validity, 2GB of total data, unlimited voice calls, 300 SMS and access to Jio services like JioTV and JioCinema.
Q3. What is the new price of the Rs 448 Jio prepaid plan?
Answer. The price of the Rs 448 prepaid plan has been reduced to Rs 445.
Q4. What is now included in the new Rs 445 Jio prepaid plan?
Answer. The new Rs 445 Jip prepaid plan includes 28 days of validity, 2GB daily data, unlimited calls, 100 SMS per day, and access to multiple OTT platforms like Zee5, JioCinema Premium, SonyLIV and Lionsgate Play.
Q5. Do the Rs 69 and Rs 139 data add-on plans include voice calls or SMS benefits?
Answer. No, the Rs 69 and Rs 139 data add-on plans are data-only plans and do not include voice calls or SMS benefits. Users must have an active base plan for these add-ons to work.
