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Union Budget 2025 – Key Tech Announcements & What They Mean, Industry Reacts

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Team My Mobile
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Highlights

  • Union Budget 2025 made several announcements to boost electronics manufacturing and EVs.
  • Removed customs duty on machinery for lithium-ion battery production, cut basic customs duty on key smartphone components and exempted 35 capital goods from customs duty for EV battery production.
  • It also lowered basic customs duty on luxury motorcycles and completely built-up passenger cars, increased duties on interactive flat-panel displays and reduced customs duty on open-cell TV panels.
Nirmala Sitharaman unveiled her 8th consecutive Union Budget as the Union Finance Minister on January 1st 2025. (Image credit – LiveMint)

The Union Budget 2025 brings a strong focus on boosting electronics manufacturing, electric vehicles (EVs) and clean energy.

From tax cuts to duty adjustments, these measures aim to strengthen India’s tech and mobility sectors while making products more affordable for consumers.

Top Tech Highlights from Budget 2025

Big Push for Mobile Phone Manufacturing

To boost local smartphone production, the government has:

  • Removed customs duty on 28 capital goods and machinery used for making lithium-ion batteries in mobile phones.
  • Cut the basic customs duty (BCD) on key smartphone components like PCBA, camera modules, connectors, USB cables and fingerprint sensors from 2.5% to zero.

This is expected to attract more investments into India’s growing smartphone industry.

EV Battery Production Gets a Boost

The government is making EV manufacturing cheaper by:

  • Exempting 35 capital goods from customs duty for lithium-ion battery production.
  • Encouraging local battery cell manufacturing to reduce import dependency and lower EV costs.

New Tax Rules for Motorcycles & Cars

  • Lowered basic customs duty on motorcycles over 1600cc.
  • Revised import duties on luxury motorcycles and completely built-up (CBU) passenger cars.

This will impact pricing in the premium automotive segment.

Import Duty Changes for TVs

  • Increased import duties on interactive flat-panel displays (IFPDs) from 10% to 20%.
  • Reduced customs duty on open-cell TV panels to 5%, making LED and LCD TVs cheaper for consumers.

Clean Tech Manufacturing Gets a Push

To support India’s shift to green energy, the government is promoting the local production of –

  • Solar PV cells
  • Electrolyzers
  • Wind turbines
  • High-voltage transmission equipment

Smart Meters & Consumer Electronics Get Cheaper

The BCD on Smart Meters has been cut from 25% to 20% making them more affordable for power companies and consumers.

Easier Rules for Electronics & IT Hardware

A light-touch regulatory framework will be introduced to reduce compliance hurdles for manufacturers.

Strengthening India’s Role in Global Supply Chains

The budget highlights financial support for key sectors like:

  • EV batteries
  • Semiconductors
  • Advanced display technologies

This will help Indian manufacturers integrate better into global supply chains.

Boost for R&D in Electronics & Mobility

The government plans to launch a Deep Tech Fund of Funds to support:

  • AI research
  • Semiconductor development
  • Battery technology

Better Warehousing for Electronics Exports

To support high-value electronics exports, the government will:

  • Upgrade air cargo warehousing.
  • Streamline customs clearance.

These changes in Budget 2025 will reduce costs, boost local production, and encourage innovation, making India a stronger player in tech, mobility and clean energy.

Industry Reacts

Ravi Kunwar, VP and CEO, HMD India and APAC, said, “The Union Budget 2025-26 presents encouraging prospects for the technology and digital infrastructure sector. We applaud the Indian Government for reinforcing India’s vision for self-reliance and innovation-driven growth in electronics manufacturing. Reducing BCD to 5% on open cell components and including 28 additional capital goods for mobile battery fabrication will strengthen local manufacturing and further generate employment in the sector. The formation of the National Manufacturing Mission and investment in skilling initiatives will contribute to India’s global competitiveness and facilitate the commitment to climate-friendly development. These measures, coupled with tax reforms and incentives, create a strong foundation for sustainable growth in India’s electronics ecosystem.”

CP Khandelwal, CEO, PR Innovation, Brand Custodian of Amazfit India, said, “Accelerating tech self-reliance by boosting display manufacturing and lithium-ion battery production. Also added, “The Budget 2025’s tech-forward policies signal India’s ambition to dominate the global electronics value chain. Eliminating BCD on open cell components for displays isn’t just a tariff tweak—it’s a strategic unlock. By making India a cost-competitive hub for advanced display manufacturing, we’re poised to cut reliance on imports for LCD/LED panels, which currently account for 80% of the $7 billion display market. This will catalyze local R&D in next-gen technologies like OLED and MicroLED, critical for smartphones, wearables, and smart TVs. Equally transformative is the lithium-ion battery push. Adding 28 capital goods for mobile batteries will fast-track domestic cell manufacturing, addressing a critical gap where India imports 90% of its lithium-ion needs. For the wearables and smartphone ecosystem, this means shorter supply chains, faster innovation cycles, and sustainable cost efficiencies. India’s future will be driven by innovation, self-reliance, and a bold vision to lead the global tech revolution.”

Rajeev Singh, Managing Director, BenQ India and South Asia said, “We are encouraged by the government’s announcement of the National Manufacturing Mission, which represents a significant step towards enhancing the ‘Make in India’ initiative. This mission’s focus on supporting small, medium, and large industries, along with its emphasis on clean technology manufacturing, aligns perfectly with our commitment to sustainability and innovation.”

Ujjwal Sarin, Founder – Nu Republic: Strengthening Make in India said, “The Union Budget’s National Manufacturing Mission is a pivotal step in strengthening ‘Make in India’ through policy support and clean tech innovation. With a strong focus on domestic manufacturing of solar PV cells, EV batteries, and high-voltage equipment, India is set to lead in sustainable technology. Addressing the inverted duty structure, the increase in customs duty on interactive flat panel displays will boost local production and investment in advanced display technologies. Additionally, the establishment of five National Centers of Excellence for Skilling and a ₹500 crore AI Centre of Excellence in education will bridge the industry-academia gap, fostering a future-ready workforce.”

“These initiatives reinforce India’s path to becoming a global leader in advanced manufacturing and digital innovation. We welcome these efforts and look forward to collaborating with stakeholders to drive technological self-reliance and growth, Sarin further added.

Prashant Bora, MD & CEO of OTEK (A Bora Multicorp Venture), said: “The FM’s proposal to reduce of the customs duty on open cells and other critical electronics components to 5% will help boost the Make in India initiative. This will help electronics brands to support customers with more cost-effective pricing, leading to enhanced scalability and growth. Furthermore, the budget’s emphasis on positioning India’s aspirations to become a global electronics hub through the production-linked incentive (PLI) schemes for electronics and IT hardware manufacturing, further boosted by PM Narendra Modi’s target of $500 billion by FY30, coupled with the government’s bid to strengthen India’s startup ecosystem with an additional INR 10,000 crore Fund of Funds will be a catalyst for growth going forward.”

FAQs

Q1. What measures Union Budget 2025 announced for boosting mobile phone manufacturing in India?

Answer. The government has removed customs duty on 28 capital goods and machinery used for making lithium-ion batteries in mobile phones and cut the basic customs duty on key smartphone components from 2.5% to zero.

Q2. How is the Union Budget 2025 supporting EV battery production?

Answer. The government is exempting 35 capital goods from customs duty for lithium-ion battery production and encouraging local battery cell manufacturing to reduce import dependency and lower EV costs.

Q3. What are the new import duty changes for TVs in the Union Budget 2025?

Answer. The government has increased import duties on interactive flat-panel displays from 10% to 20% and reduced customs duty on open-cell TV panels to 5%, making LED and LCD TVs cheaper for consumers.

Q4. What is the focus of the IndiaAI Safety Institute announced at the Union Budget 2025?

Answer. The IndiaAI Safety Institute will collaborate with academia, startups, industry, and government bodies to ensure AI safety, security, and trust, focusing on indigenous R&D and using Indian datasets tailored to the country’s diversity.

Q5 How does the Union budget 2025 support R&D in electronics and mobility?

Answer. The government plans to launch a Deep Tech Fund of Funds to support AI research, semiconductor development and battery technology.

Also Read: Electrical Vehicles in India: Future Prospects

Also Read: Union Budget 2025: Mobile Phones, TVs Could Get Cheaper Due to Changes in Customs Duty

Union Minister Vaishnaw: India to Develop Affordable AI Model to Rival ChatGPT & DeepSeek

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Team My Mobile
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Highlights

  • India is developing an affordable AI model to rival ChatGPT and DeepSeek.
  • These will be designed for the Indian context, languages and culture.
  • According to Union Minister Vaishnaw, the Indian AI Model is expected to be ready in 10 months.
  • The AI model uses 18,693 GPUs, with a cost of ₹100 per hour after a 40% government subsidy.
  • The IndiaAI Safety Institute will collaborate with various entities to ensure AI safety, security and trust focusing on indigenous R&D and using Indian datasets.
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Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw (centre) an event by the Indian AI Mission in New Delhi. (Image credit – PIB)

India is gearing up to enter the AI race with its own affordable foundational AI model, similar to ChatGPT and DeepSeek. Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced this at an event by the Indian AI Mission in New Delhi stating that the model will be ready in 10 months.

Over the past 1.5 years, Indian researchers have been working on building an AI ecosystem to support this initiative. The new AI model will be designed specifically for Indian users addressing linguistic and cultural needs while promoting inclusivity and reducing biases.

“Over the last 1.5 years, our teams have been working closely with startups, researchers, professors etc. Today, we are calling for proposals to develop our own foundational model. The model will take care of the Indian context, languages and culture are devoid of biases,” Vaishnaw told reporters.

Vaishnaw said, “Leading developers and researchers are working towards completing multiple foundational models within 8 to 10 months, leveraging algorithmic efficiency to achieve cost-effective and timely development.”

The minister also highlighted India’s computational strength revealing that the AI model is being developed using 18,693 GPUs with 10,000 already deployed and the remaining 8,693 to be added soon. To put this into perspective, DeepSeek was trained on 2,000 GPUs and ChatGPT on 25,000 GPUs.

A major advantage of India’s AI model will be its cost-effectiveness. While top global AI models cost around $2.5–$3 per hour, India’s model will cost ₹100 per hour after a 40% government subsidy. “The attractive half-yearly and annual plans will make it more affordable,” Vaishnaw added.

At the same event, Vaishnaw also announced the launch of the IndiaAI Safety Institute under the India AI Mission.

This institute will collaborate with academia, startups, industry and government bodies to ensure AI safety, security and trust. It will also focus on indigenous R&D using Indian datasets tailored to the country’s social, economic, cultural and linguistic diversity.

With this initiative, India is set to make AI more accessible and affordable competing with global AI giants while keeping local needs in focus.

FAQs

Q1. What is India developing in the AI space?

Answer. India is developing an affordable AI model to rival ChatGPT and DeepSeek, designed for the Indian context, languages and culture, and expected to be ready in 10 months.

Q2. How many GPUs are being used to develop India’s AI model?

Answer. The AI model is being developed using 18,693 GPUs with 10,000 already deployed and the remaining 8,693 to be added soon.

Q3. What will be the cost of using India’s AI model?

Answer. The model will cost ₹100 per hour after a 40% government subsidy, making it highly cost-effective compared to global AI models.

Also Read: Meta Unveils Largest Llama 3 AI Model Boasting Language and Math Improvements

Also Read: TRAI Needs More Teeth to Punish and Enforce – Ashwini Vaishnaw

Apple Intelligence to Support More Languages Starting This April

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Team My Mobile
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Highlights

  • Apple Intelligence will support nine new languages starting in April.
  • The new languages include French, German, Italian, Portuguese, Spanish, Japanese, Korean, Simplified Chinese and Vietnamese.
  • The service is currently available in specific regions and requires devices running iOS 18.2, iPadOS 18.2, or macOS Sequoia 15.2 or later.
  • Apple Intelligence offers AI-powered features like Genmoji, Image Playground & Image Wand, Writing Tools, Clean Up in Photos, Natural Language Search and Smart Reply & Summaries.
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Apple Intelligence will soon get additional language support. (Image credit – Apple)

Apple introduced Apple Intelligence last September with the iPhone 16 series but until now, it has only supported English in most regions. The Cupertino Giant did confirm that it is working on more language support and now we have a confirmation that the same will happen in April.

During Apple’s Q4 2024 earnings call, CEO Tim Cook announced that Apple Intelligence will support more languages starting in April. He said, “In April, we’re bringing Apple Intelligence to more languages, including French, German, Italian, Portuguese, Spanish, Japanese, Korean, and Simplified Chinese, as well as localised English to Singapore and India.”

Interestingly, Apple’s support page also mentions Vietnamese bringing the total to nine new languages. The update will roll out through a software update.

Apple Intelligence is currently available in the US, UK, Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand and South Africa. To use it, your device must be running iOS 18.2, iPadOS 18.2 or macOS Sequoia 15.2 or later.

How to Get Apple Intelligence?

Apple Intelligence is a personal AI system designed to help users communicate, work and express themselves while keeping privacy in focus.

To use it, users will have to follow the following steps –

  • Update your iPhone, iPad, or Mac to the latest software version.
  • Make sure your device language and Siri language are set to a supported language.
  • Keep your device connected to Wi-Fi and a power source while models download.
  • You can enable Apple Intelligence manually by going to Settings > Apple Intelligence & Siri > Turn on Apple Intelligence.

Which Devices Support Apple Intelligence?

Apple Intelligence works on –

  • iPhone 16 series, iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max
  • iPads with A17 Pro or M1 and later
  • Macs with M1 or later

It also requires iOS 18.1, iPadOS 18.1, or macOS Sequoia 15.1, and at least 7GB of storage.

Apple Intelligence Features

Apple Intelligence brings AI-powered features across Apple apps and experiences including the following –

  • Genmoji – AI-generated emojis
  • Image Playground & Image Wand – AI-powered image tools
  • Writing Tools – Helps refine and summarize text
  • Clean Up in Photos – Removes unwanted objects from images
  • Natural Language Search in Photos – Find pictures easily with AI
  • Smart Reply & Summaries in Mail and Messages – AI-generated responses
  • Siri Upgrades – More natural voice, better request handling, and ChatGPT integration

More features are expected to roll out in the coming months. With this language update, Apple Intelligence is set to become even more useful for a global audience.

FAQs

Q1. When will Apple Intelligence start supporting more languages?

Answer. Starting in April, Apple Intelligence will support nine new languages, including French, German, Italian, Portuguese, Spanish, Japanese, Korean, Simplified Chinese and Vietnamese.

Q2. In which regions is Apple Intelligence currently available?

Answer. Apple Intelligence is currently available in the US, UK, Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, and South Africa.

Q3. What are the requirements to use Apple Intelligence?

Answer. To use Apple Intelligence, your device must be running iOS 18.2, iPadOS 18.2, or macOS Sequoia 15.2 or later, and have at least 7GB of storage.

Q4. What devices support Apple Intelligence?

Answer. Apple Intelligence works on iPhone 16 series, iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, iPads with A17 Pro or M1 and later, and Macs with M1 or later.

Q5. What are some key features of Apple Intelligence?

Answer. Key features include Genmoji, Image Playground & Image Wand, Writing Tools, Clean Up in Photos, Natural Language Search, and Smart Reply & Summaries.

Also Read: Apple Takes Up New Leadership to Boost Apple Intelligence and Siri Efforts

Also Read: Apple Adds iPhone 16 Series Repair Parts to Self-Service Repair Store

Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra Teardown Video Shows Its Inner Workings

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Team My Mobile
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Highlights

  • A teardown video shows the internal components and design of the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra.
  • Galaxy S25 Ultra Features – Snapdragon 8 Elite chip, 50MP ultrawide camera, Log video recording, One UI 7 based on Android 15 and Google Gemini AI integration.
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The newly unveiled Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra. (Image credit – Samsung)

The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra was just unveiled last month, and while it hasn’t started shipping yet, a teardown video has already surfaced giving us a look inside Samsung’s latest flagship.

The video starts with the removal of the back cover using a special machine called the Samsung Automatic Octa Disassembler. After that, the phone is taken apart and then put back together showing off its internal components and design.

The teardown video is a little over 14 minutes long and is in Hindi. However, YouTube’s auto-generated and auto-translated subtitles work well, so language shouldn’t be a problem for non-Hindi speakers.

You can check out the video below if you want to see the process in detail.

Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra – What’s New?

Samsung launched the Galaxy S25 Ultra alongside the rest of the Galaxy S25 series at its Galaxy Unpacked event. The phone is powered by a custom Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy chip with 12GB of RAM and up to 1TB of storage.

Some of its key features include –

  • 50MP ultrawide camera (an upgrade from last year)
  • Log video recording, similar to Apple’s iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro
  • One UI 7 based on Android 15
  • Google Gemini AI integration in Samsung apps
  • Now Brief and Now Bar for personalised summaries and quick access to key info

Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra – Price and Availability

The Galaxy S25 Ultra is priced at $1,299 (roughly Rs. 1,12,300) for the 12GB + 256GB variant. Other versions include:

  • 12GB + 512GB – $1,419 (Rs. 1,22,700)
  • 12GB + 1TB – $1,659 (Rs. 1,43,400)

In India, the starting price is Rs. 1,29,999.

The phone will be available in Titanium Black, Titanium Gray, Titanium Silverblue and Titanium Whitesilver with additional exclusive colors – Titanium Jadegreen, Titanium Jetblack and Titanium Pinkgold on Samsung’s website.

Preorders in the US have already started and Samsung says the official release date is February 7.

FAQS

Q1. What does the teardown video of the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra show?

Answer. The teardown video shows the internal components and design of the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra, which was unveiled last month.

Q2. What are some key features of the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra?

Answer. The Galaxy S25 Ultra includes a custom Snapdragon 8 Elite chip, 50MP ultrawide camera, Log video recording, One UI 7 based on Android 15, and Google Gemini AI integration.

Q3. What is the price and availability of the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra?

Answer. Prices range from $1,299 to $1,659, with preorders starting today in the US and the official release date set for February 7. In India, the starting price is Rs. 1,29,999.

Also Read: Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra S Pen Officially Unveiled Without Bluetooth Feature, Leaving Fans Unhappy

Also Read: iPhone 16 Teardown Reveals Easier Repairability and New Battery Tech

OpenAI Launches o3-mini – A Fast and Affordable AI for STEM and Coding

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Team My Mobile
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Highlights

  • OpenAI’s new AI model o3-mini is designed for science, math and coding.
  • It offers a fast and cost-efficient solution for STEM professionals and developers.
  • o3-mini performs 24% faster than o1-mini and includes key features such as function calling, structured outputs, developer messages and adjustable reasoning levels.
  • ChatGPT Plus, Team, and Pro subscribers can access o3-mini with Pro users getting unlimited access.
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OpenAI introduces the o3-mini. (Image credit – OpenAI)

OpenAI has officially released its “most cost-efficient model” in the reasoning series – the o3-mini.

First previewed in December 2024, this AI model is designed for science, math and coding, making it a great tool for STEM professionals and developers. Here’s everything we know about the new model.

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman praised the tool in multiple posts on X (formerly Twitter) saying, “o3-mini-high is really good and it’s cool to hear some people say it’s their favorite model ever. [….] with ChatGPT plus, you can select “o3-mini-high”, which thinks harder and gives better answers.”

What is OpenAI’s New Model – o3-mini?

OpenAI says o3-mini offers a faster and more efficient alternative for tech-focused tasks. It performs at the same level as o1 in science, math, and coding but delivers results 24% faster than o1-mini. In testing, o3-mini had an average response time of 7.7 seconds, compared to o1-mini’s 10.16 seconds.

It’s also OpenAI’s first small reasoning model with key developer features including Function calling, Structured Outputs, Developer messages, Search for real-time answers with source links and Adjustable reasoning levels (low, medium, high).

How To Use o3-mini?

ChatGPT Plus, Team and Pro subscribers can access o3-mini through the model picker replacing o1-mini. Pro users get unlimited access to both o3-mini and o3-mini-high (a smarter but slightly slower version). Plus Team users now get 150 messages/day, up from 50 with o1-mini.

Free users can try o3-mini by selecting “Reason” in the message composer or regenerating responses, making it OpenAI’s first reasoning model available to non-paying users.

Additionally, o3-mini is now available through Microsoft’s Azure OpenAI Service.

With its speed, affordability and strong STEM capabilities, the o3-mini is set to be a valuable tool for researchers, developers and students alike.

FAQs

Q1. What is the new AI model o3-mini designed for?

Answer. OpenAI’s o3-mini is designed for science, math, and coding, offering a fast and cost-efficient solution for STEM professionals and developers.

Q2. How does the performance of o3-mini compare to o1-mini?

Answer. o3-mini performs 24% faster than o1-mini and includes key features such as function calling, structured outputs, developer messages, and adjustable reasoning levels.

Q3. Who can access o3-mini and how?

Answer. ChatGPT Plus, Team, and Pro subscribers can access o3-mini, with Pro users getting unlimited access. Free users can try it by selecting “Reason,” and it is also available through Microsoft’s Azure OpenAI Service.

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

Also Read : OpenAI Introduces $200/Month ChatGPT Pro Subscription for Advanced Users

Sony Reportedly Cancels Gran Turismo 7 for PC, Disappointing Racing Fans

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Team My Mobile
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Highlights

  • Sony reportedly cancels the project to bring Gran Turismo 7 to PC.
  • Fans were hopeful after the success of other PlayStation games on PC.
  • Reports claim Sony remains committed to its PC strategy and will continue to support Gran Turismo 7 with updates.
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Sony is reportedly not moving ahead with PC version of Gran Turismo 7. (Image credit – Sony)

It was previously reportedly widely in the media that Sony was working on bringing Gran Turismo 7 to PC. However, recent rumours suggest that the company has cancelled the project at the last minute. The decision has left many PC gamers disappointed and as of now, Sony hasn’t given any explanation for why it was scrapped.

The news comes from user Bryank75, who is widely considered a reliable source on the IconEra forum.

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User Bryank75’s post on the IconEra forum.

Many fans expected Gran Turismo 7 to follow suit after the success of PlayStation games like God of War, The Last of Us and Marvel’s Spider-Man on PC. These titles helped Sony reach more players, which makes this report of cancellation all the more surprising.

However, this doesn’t mean Sony is stepping away from PC gaming. The company remains committed to its PC strategy, but for racing fans, this is a major letdown. Many were eager to experience one of the best racing games on PC.

Originally launched on March 4, 2022, for PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5, Gran Turismo 7 received great reviews and even won Best Sports/Racing Game at The Game Awards 2022.

Sony continues to support the game, with the latest 1.55 update adding four new cars including –

  • Gran Turismo F3500-A
  • 1987 Honda Civic Si Extra (available from a used car dealer)
  • 2024 Hyundai IONIQ 5N
  • 2018 Toyota C-HR S

These updates show Sony’s ongoing commitment to the game, but for now, PC gamers will miss out on the experience.

There’s no word on whether Sony might reconsider in the future but fans still hope to see GT7 on PC someday. A PC version could bring in new players, boost the game’s popularity and expand the Gran Turismo community. The demand is strong, and that could influence Sony’s decisions down the line.

FAQS

Q1. What recent news has disappointed Gran Turismo 7 fans?

Answer. Sony reportedly cancelled the project to bring Gran Turismo 7 to PC at the last minute, leaving many PC gamers disappointed.

Q2. What was the community’s expectation regarding Gran Turismo 7 for PC?

Answer. Fans expected Gran Turismo 7 to follow the success of other PlayStation games like God of War, The Last of Us, and Marvel’s Spider-Man on PC, making the cancellation surprising.

Q3. Does the cancellation of Gran Turismo 7 for PC affect Sony’s commitment to PC gaming?

Answer. No, despite the cancellation, Sony remains committed to its PC strategy and continues to support Gran Turismo 7 with updates.

Also Read: Sony Teams Up with Xiaomi for a Limited Edition PlayStation Fitness Tracker

Also Read: GTA 6 May Run at 30FPS on Consoles, Higher Frame Rates Expected on PC

WhatsApp To Rool Out Event Scheduling for One-on-One Chats

By
Team My Mobile
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Highlights

  • WhatsApp to introduce event scheduling in private conversations.
  • The feature is currently available to some beta testers using the latest WhatsApp beta version.
  • A wider rollout is expected in the coming weeks or months.
  • Users can create events, link them to voice or video calls and receive reminders.

WhatsApp is making it easier to plan and manage events by introducing a new event scheduling feature in one-on-one chats. Previously, event creation was only available in group chats and communities, but now users can set up meetings, reminders and personal plans directly in private conversations. Here’s everything we know about the upcoming feature.

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WhatsApp working on a feature to create and share events in individual chats. (Image credit – @WABetaInfo on X)

According to trusted WhatsApp beta leaker WABetaInfo, there is a new feature coming on WhatsApp that would allow users to schedule events within chats. This feature is currently available to some beta testers using the latest WhatsApp beta version from the Google Play Store.

WABetaInfo, in its blog, wrote, “Some beta testers can explore a new feature that allows them to schedule events within private conversations, making it easier to organise personal appointments and reminders. Previously, the ability to create events was only available in group chats and community groups, as it was primarily seen as a tool for organising larger gatherings and coordinating multiple people. However, it seems that WhatsApp has recognised the need for a more personalized scheduling feature and has now extended event support to one-on-one chats.”

When you create an event, the other person can accept or decline the invite making coordination simple. You can also link events to voice or video calls making it easier to manage both scheduling and communication in one place.

WABetaInfo later confirmed that “This event scheduling feature is also available to some iOS users after installing the WhatsApp beta for iOS 25.2.10.73 update from the TestFlight app, ensuring a seamless and consistent experience across both Android and iOS devices.”

By adding event planning directly into chats, WhatsApp is cutting down the need for third-party calendar apps like Google Calendar. This is especially helpful for users who rely on WhatsApp for both work and personal conversations. The built-in reminders ensure that both parties stay on track with their plans.

Since this feature is still in beta testing, it may take a few weeks or months before rolling out to everyone. Beta testers are currently providing feedback to help fine-tune the tool before its full release.

With this move, WhatsApp is expanding beyond messaging and becoming a more versatile productivity tool. As the feature rolls out to more users, managing plans and events within WhatsApp will become even more seamless.

FAQs

Q1. What new feature is WhatsApp introducing for one-on-one chats?

Answer. WhatsApp is introducing an event scheduling feature in private conversations, allowing users to set up meetings, reminders and personal plans directly in one-on-one chats.

Q2. Is the event scheduling feature available to all users now?

Answer. No, the feature is currently available to some beta testers using the latest WhatsApp beta version from the Google Play Store with a wider rollout expected in the coming weeks or months.

Q3. How will the new event scheduling feature benefit users?

Answer. The feature allows users to create events, link them to voice or video calls, and receive reminders, reducing the need for third-party calendar apps like Google Calendar and helping users stay organised.

Read More: WhatsApp Adds Drafts Feature to Chats, Tests Themed Icons for Contacts and Group Chats

Read More: WhatsApp May Soon Let iOS Users Manage Multiple Accounts on One Device

Gurman: Apple Vision Pro Is Set To Get PlayStation VR Controller Support This Year

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Team My Mobile
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Highlight

  • Apple is on track to bring PlayStation VR controller support to the Vision Pro with Sony.
  • Apple has been working with Sony and reaching out to third-party developers to integrate controller support into their games on Vision Pro.
  • The feature is likely to launch in a software update later this year.
  • It will enhance gaming and offer more precision when navigating the operating system.
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Apple collaborating with Sony to get PlayStation VR controller support for the Vision Pro. (Image credit – Apple)

Apple is still on track to bring PlayStation VR controller support to the Vision Pro, according to Mark Gurman’s Power On newsletter. This collaboration with Sony was first reported in December, and things are moving forward as expected.

When the news first surfaced, reports revealed that Apple had been working with Sony for months and was also reaching out to third-party developers to integrate controller support into their games on Vision Pro. “Apple is now working on a major effort to support third-party hand controllers in the device’s visionOS software and has teamed up with Sony Group Corp. to make it happen,” Gurman wrote.

In an earlier report, Gurman wrote, “Apple approached Sony earlier this year, and the duo agreed to work together on launching support for the PlayStation VR2’s hand controllers on the Vision Pro. Inside Sony, the work has been a monthslong undertaking, I’m told. And Apple has discussed the plan with third-party developers, asking them if they’d integrate support into their games.”

 

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Now, Gurman says that “all signs point to this project still being in development” and that it will likely launch in a software update later this year, possibly with visionOS 3. The PlayStation VR controllers will not only improve gaming but also offer “more precision” when navigating the operating system.

This partnership could enhance the gaming experience on Vision Pro, but it’s still unclear whether it will significantly expand the game library or impact device sales.

For now, Sony does not sell the PlayStation VR controllers separately, so how Apple will handle availability remains to be seen.

FAQs

Q1. What is Apple planning to bring to the Vision Pro?

Answer. Apple is on track to bring PlayStation VR controller support to the Vision Pro in collaboration with Sony moving forward as expected.

Q2. How has Apple been preparing for PlayStation VR controller support on Vision Pro?

Answer. Apple has been working with Sony for months and reaching out to third-party developers to integrate controller support into their games on Vision Pro.

Q3. When is the PlayStation VR controller support for Vision Pro expected to launch?

Answer. The feature is likely to launch in a software update later this year, possibly with visionOS 3, enhancing gaming and offering more precision when navigating the operating system.

Also Read : Apple to Team Up with Sony to Boost VR Gaming on Apple Vision Pro

Also Read : Sony Teams Up with Xiaomi for a Limited Edition PlayStation Fitness Tracker

Apple’s New iCloud Service “Confetti” Could Launch This Week, Says Gurman

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Team My Mobile
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Highlights

  • Apple to launch New iCloud Service “Confetti” to simplify event invitations for parties, functions and meetings.
  • It will be a new way to manage event invitations compared to the existing Calendar app.
  • The “Confetti” feature is integrated with iOS 18.3, which started rolling out recently,
  • As per reports, it integrates with iCloud and a new daemon called GroupKit.
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Apple might launch a new iCould service codenamed Confetti soon. (Image credit – Apple)

It appears Apple is getting ready to launch a new event and invite services as part of iCloud. According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, this feature is Codenamed “Confetti” and is designed to make it easier to invite people to parties, functions and meetings. Unlike the existing Calendar app, it will offer a fresh way to manage event invitations.

Gurman reports that Apple has been planning to revamp its Calendar app for years, and this is just the start of those efforts. He also mentions that “Confetti” is linked to iOS 18.3, which started rolling out to iPhone and iPad users late last month. This means Apple could activate the service at any time. However, there aren’t many details available just yet.

Last month, 9to5Mac first reported on this feature after discovering it in the iOS 18.3 beta code. References to an “Apple Invites” app were originally spotted in an iOS 18.2 beta but were later removed before the final release. The code has now reappeared in iOS 18.3 beta 2.

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Apple’s New iCloud Service “Confetti” to allow organising meetings and in-person events. (Image credit – 9to5Mac)

Based on the code analysis, this new app seems to be designed for organising meetings and in-person events. While Apple’s Calendar app already serves this purpose, the Invites app could bring some new and improved features.

9to5Mac, in its previous report, described the new app saying, “Code suggests that the Invites app will integrate with iCloud and will even have a web version on iCloud.com. The new app also integrates with a new iOS 18 daemon called GroupKit, which manages database models for groups of people. This daemon has been present since the first release of iOS 18.0 and hasn’t been used by any Apple apps so far.”

The report further added, “Essentially, the app will show you a list of the people invited to that event and who has already confirmed their attendance. It’s unclear whether Invites will actually be a stand-alone app or whether Apple has plans to integrate it with other parts of the system (such as a mini iMessage app). Presumably, the app will have a more fun interface than what the Calendar app currently provides for inviting someone to an event.”

FAQs

Q1. What is the new iCloud service “Confetti” designed to do?

Answer. “Confetti” is designed to make it easier to invite people to parties, functions, and meetings, offering a fresh way to manage event invitations compared to the existing Calendar app.

Q2. When could Apple activate the “Confetti” service?

Answer. “Confetti” is linked to iOS 18.3, which started rolling out to iPhone and iPad users late last month, meaning Apple could activate the service at any time.

Q3. What is unique about the “Invites” app mentioned in the iOS 18.3 report?

Answer. The Invites app integrates with iCloud and a new iOS 18 daemon called GroupKit, which manages database models for groups of people. The app will show a list of people invited to an event and who have confirmed their attendance.

Also Read: OLED iPad Pro with M4 Chipset Unveiling

Also Read : Apple Will Delete and Discontinue iCloud Backup Support for iPhones Running iOS 8 and Older

Counterpoint Research: Vivo India’s Top Smartphone Brand, Samsung Slips to Third, India Smartphone Market Hits All-time High in 2024

By
Team My Mobile
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0

Highlights

  • The Indian smartphone market’s Revenue rose 9% YoY in 2024 to reach a record high.
  • Vivo came on top in volume for the first time in FY2024.
  • Apple led market value for the second year and ranked among the top 5 in Q4 2024.
  • The iPhone 15 was the most shipped device in Q4 2024.
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Vivo led the Indian smartphone market in 2024 capitalising on its strong offline network. (Image credit – Unknown)

Counterpoint Research’s latest report reveals big changes in India’s smartphone market for 2024. Samsung has lost its No. 1 position, dropping to third place. Vivo has taken the lead with 19% of total shipments, while Xiaomi follows closely at 17%.

Research Director Tarun Pathak said that smartphone markets witnessed recovery in 2024 and normalisation, “as macroeconomic pressures softened.”

Despite overall shipments increasing by just 1%, wholesale revenue rose by 9%, showing a shift toward higher-priced smartphones. 5G smartphones made up 78% of total shipments, meaning nearly three out of every four phones now support 5G.

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Vivo’s success came from its strong offline network, supported by its sub-brand iQOO. Xiaomi overtook Samsung, as the Korean brand focused more on its premium Galaxy S series, leading to a decline in budget phone sales.

Apple, on the other hand, remained the market leader in value, with the iPhone 15 being the most shipped device in Q4 2024.

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Commenting on the market dynamics, Senior Research Analyst Shilpi Jain said, “India’s smartphone market is showing signs of maturity, with stable volumes affected by low entry of new users into the ecosystem. Replacement cycles are increasing as entry- and mid-range devices continue to improve each year. At the same time, there is a shift toward higher-priced devices, with shipments of premium segment devices (>INR 30,000) growing by double-digit percentages, driving a 9% YoY growth in wholesale value – the highest ever recorded.”

Jain added, “Consumer preference for premium smartphones is accelerating, driven by accessibility and affordability through trade-in programs and flexible financing options, turning consumer aspirations into reality. However, overall shipment growth remained marginal due to inflationary pressures, which significantly impacted the entry-level segment (sub-INR 10,000), resulting in a one-third decline. Looking ahead, market volumes in 2025 are expected to grow in single-digit percentage, while value is projected to reach another all-time high, with premiumization continuing as the key driver.”

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On the competition dynamics, Research Analyst Shubham Singh said, “vivo emerged as the market leader for the first time, growing 16% YoY, aided by a robust offline network and supported by its sub-brand iQOO. Xiaomi secured the second spot, returning to growth with a 6% YoY increase in shipments after seeing declines in 2022 and 2023. Samsung slipped to third, as its value-driven strategies led to a reduced position in lower price bands, impacting overall shipments. However, Samsung’s premium devices continued to perform well, particularly its S series, which helped the brand gain share in the premium segment.”

Singh also added, “OPPO fell to fourth place with a 10% YoY decline, primarily due to product and channel challenges in H1 2023. However, it regained momentum with a revamped product portfolio, including the K and A series. 2024 was another strong year for Apple, as it ranked among the top five in Q4 2024. The iPhone 15 became the highest-shipped device of the quarter, helping Apple achieve record shipments in a single quarter and ending the year with the highest market value share.”

Singh continued, “However, India’s smartphone market slipped 4% YoY in Q4 2024 due to post-festive slumps, with OEMs focusing on clearing Q3 inventory. Meanwhile, the value grew by 5%, driven by demand for premium devices and new launches in December.”

Other Key Insights –

  • Nothing was the fastest-growing brand in 2024 achieving 577% YoY growth, which was mainly due to its 2a series and CMF sub-brand.
  • Motorola continued its strong growth expanding 82% YoY in 2024 and doubling its shipments compared to 2022.
  • 5G smartphone adoption hit 78% in 2024 with more entry-level phones now featuring 5G chipsets.
  • MediaTek led the chipset market with its highest-ever 52% share followed by Qualcomm at 25%.
  • Premium smartphones now make up one in five shipments with brands using AI, Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos to enhance user experiences.
  • Realme expanded its offline presence with 52% of its total shipments coming from offline sales, up from 49% in 2023.
  • itel dominated the feature phone market holding a 32% market share, thanks to its strong distribution in smaller cities.

The report shows that India’s smartphone landscape is changing pace with 5G adoption rising and premium phone demand increasing. Nonetheless, it’ll be interesting to see if Samsung can reclaim its top spot or if Vivo will continue to lead in 2025.

FAQs

Q1. What was the overall revenue growth for India’s smartphone market in 2024?

Answer. The Indian smartphone market’s revenue rose 9% year-over-year (YoY) in 2024, reaching a record high.

Q2. Which company became the top smartphone brand in India by volume in 2024?

Answer. Vivo became the top smartphone brand by volume in India for the first time in FY2024, with 19% of total shipments.

Q3. What was the most shipped device in Q4 2024?

Answer. The iPhone 15 was the most shipped device in Q4 2024.

Q4. What percentage of total smartphone shipments in 2024 supported 5G?

Answer. 5G smartphones made up 78% of total shipments in 2024.

Q5. Which brand was the fastest-growing in the Indian smartphone market in 2024?

Answer. Nothing was the fastest-growing brand in 2024, achieving 577% YoY growth, mainly due to its 2a series and CMF sub-brand.

Q6. What is Counterpoint Research?

Answer. According to the official website, “Counterpoint Technology Market Research is a global research firm specializing in products in the TMT (technology, media and telecom) industry. It services major technology and financial firms with a mix of monthly reports, customized projects and detailed analyses of the mobile and technology markets. Its key analysts are seasoned experts in the high-tech industry.”

Also Read: Samsung Q4 2024 Profits Up YoY, But Chip Challenges Persist

Also Read: Vivo T4x 5G and Y59 5G Spotted on BIS, Set to Launch in India Soon

Also Read: Best Smartphones Under 20K to Buy in 2025

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