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

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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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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

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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

7 New Movies and Shows Streaming This Friday (Jan 31) – What to Watch on Netflix, ZEE5 & More

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Highlights

  • Identity on ZEE5, The Snow Girl Season 2 on Netflix, Bad Genius on Lionsgate Play, The Secret Of The Shiledars on Disney+ Hotstar, The Storyteller on Disney+ Hotstar, You’re Cordially Invited on Amazon Prime Video and Lucca’s World’ on Netflix.

It’s Friday, which means it’s time for fresh OTT releases! This week brings a mix of thrillers, dramas, and comedies across popular platforms like Netflix, Disney+ Hotstar, ZEE5 and Lionsgate Play.

Whether you’re in the mood for a gripping mystery, a hilarious wedding mishap, or an emotional drama, there’s something for everyone. Here’s the full lineup of new releases arriving on January 31, 2025.

New OTT Releases This Week

‘Identity’ (ZEE5)

Cast – Tovino Thomas, Trisha Krishnan, Mandira Bedi, Vinay Rai, Aju Varghese

Director – Akhil Paul and Anas Khan

Writer – Akhil Paul and Anas Khan

Genre – Psychological Thriller

Original Language –    Malayalam

Release Date – January 31

The much-awaited Malayalam psychological thriller ‘Identity’ is finally coming to OTT! Releasing on ZEE5, the film follows a determined police officer who teams up with a sketch artist and an eyewitness to crack a shocking crime. With unexpected twists and intense storytelling, this one promises to keep you hooked!

‘The Snow Girl’ Season 2 (Netflix)

Cast – Milena Smit, Miki Esparbé, Aixa Villagrán, Marco Cáceres, Jose Coronado, Hugo Welzel, Luis Callejo, Luis Bermejo, Vicente Romero

Director – David Ulloa, Laura Alvea

Writer – Jesús Mesas, Javier Andrés Roig

Genre – Crime, Drama, Thriller

Original Language – Spanish

Release Date – January 31

The second season of this gripping Netflix drama picks up after the events of Season 1. Miren, the protagonist, investigates an elite school at the centre of a disappearance and a murder case. As she digs deeper alongside investigative journalist Jaime (Miki Esparbé), they uncover a tangled web of lies, secrets, and dark pasts. Expect more suspense and shocking revelations!

‘Bad Genius’ (Lionsgate Play)

Cast – Benedict Wong, Callina Liang, Jabari Banks, Taylor Hickson, Sarah-Jane Redmond

Director – J.C. Lee

Writer – J.C. Lee and Julius Onah

Genre – Thriller

Original Language – English

Release Date – January 31

This English-language remake of the hit 2017 Thai film follows a group of brilliant students who mastermind a high-stakes scheme to outsmart a corrupt college admissions system. With its fast-paced storytelling and clever plot twists, this one’s perfect for fans of heist thrillers.

The Secret Of The Shiledars’ (Disney+ Hotstar)

Cast – Rajeev Khandelwal, Sai Tamhankar, Ashish Vidyarthi, Dilip Prabhawalkar

Director – Aditya Sarpotdar

Writer – Tushar Ajgaonkar

Genre – Action Thriller

Original Language – Hindi

Release Date – January 31

Created by Aditya Sarpotdar, this mystery thriller follows a middle-aged man who stumbles upon a secret group protecting Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s hidden treasure—only to discover that he has a personal connection to them. With its historical intrigue and gripping action, this series promises an exciting watch!

‘The Storyteller’ (Disney+ Hotstar)

Cast – Paresh Rawal, Adil Hussain, Revathi, Tannishtha Chatterjee, Jayesh More, Rohit Mukherjee, Anindita Bose, Pratik Dutta, Senjuti Roy Mukherji, Kaberi Basu, Tapati Munsi, Rajarshi Nag, Sourav Paul Datta, Parimal Desai, Amitabh Ghosh

Director – Anant Mahadevan

Writer – Kireet Khurana, Anant Mahadevan, Srijato

Genre – Drama

Original Language – Hindi

Release Date – January 28

Based on Satyajit Ray’s short story, this film explores the bond between a wealthy businessman and a storyteller hired to help him sleep. As their stories unfold, shocking truths come to light, questioning ethics, creativity and human emotions. With stellar performances, this one’s a must-watch for lovers of meaningful cinema.

‘You’re Cordially Invited’ (Amazon Prime Video)

Cast – Will Ferrell, Reese Witherspoon, Geraldine Viswanathan, Meredith Hagner, Celia Weston, Keyla Monterroso Mejia, Leanne Morgan, Jimmy Tatro, Jack McBrayer

Director – Nicholas Stoller

Writer – Nicholas Stoller

Genre – Comedy

Original Language – English

Release Date – January 30

What happens when two families accidentally book the same venue for their weddings? Absolute chaos! This hilarious rom-com follows their desperate attempts to share the space leading to family feuds, last-minute disasters and unexpected surprises. If you’re in the mood for laughs and heartwarming moments, this one’s for you!

‘Lucca’s World’ (Netflix)

Cast – Bárbara Mori, Juan Pablo Medina, Danish Husain, Alejandra Corman, Julián Tello, Bélen Chávez, Adonay Cabrera, Diana Mercado Armenta, Mai Elissalt

Director – Mariana Chenillo

Writer – Javier Peñalosa

Genre – Drama

Original Language – Spanish

Release Date – January 31

Based on true events, this moving drama follows a mother’s fight to get experimental treatment for her son with cerebral palsy. Her journey takes her to India, where she faces cultural and bureaucratic challenges but refuses to give up. A touching story of resilience and love, this film is an emotional watch.

FAQs

Q1. What is the movie Identity about?

Answer. Identity is a Malayalam crime thriller about a part-time karate instructor and sketch artist, Haran Shankar (played by Tovino Thomas), who gets entangled in a murder investigation.

Q2. What can viewers expect from The Snow Girl Season 2?

Answer. The Snow Girl Season 2 continues the story of journalist Miren Rojo (played by Milena Smit) as she investigates the disappearance of a girl named Amaya Martin during the 2010 Cavalcade of Magi in Málaga.

Q3. What is Bad Genius about?

Answer. Bad Genius is a gripping thriller that follows a group of high school students who master the art of cheating on exams and eventually get involved in a high-stakes heist4. The film explores themes of intelligence, morality and the consequences of their actions.

Q4. Who is the main lead of The Secret Of The Shiledars?

Answer. The Secret Of The Shiledars revolves around Dr. Ravi Bhatt (played by Rajeev Khandelwal), who embarks on a journey to uncover Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s hidden treasure after meeting a judge.

Q5. Is The Storyteller one of Satyajit Ray’s stories?

Answer. Yes, the Storyteller is an emotional drama inspired by Satyajit Ray’s short story Golpo Boliye Tarini Khuro.

Q6. What is You’re Cordially Invited about?

Answer. You’re Cordially Invited is a comedy that follows two families whose dream weddings collide after being accidentally scheduled at the same remote resort on the same day.

Q7. Where to stream Lucca’s World?

Answer Lucca’s World is streaming on Netflix starting January 31.

Also Read: Top 5 OTT Releases to Binge-Watch This Weekend

Also Read: Netflix Now Allows iPhone and iPad Users to Download Complete TV Series Season in One Tap

Also Read: ZEE5 to Soon Premiere Vivek Agnihotri Docu-Series ‘The Kashmir Files Unreported’

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

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Highlights

  • GTA 6 is expected to run at 30FPS on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X.
  • Higher frame rates are anticipated for PC players depending on their hardware.
  • Industry analyst Matthew Ball suggests the standard edition of GTA 6 may be priced at $100.
  • A Spanish retailer briefly listed GTA 6 release date as September 17.
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GTA 6 rumours and speculations are gaining momentum. (Image credit – Rockstar Games)

As Grand Theft Auto 6 (GTA 6) hype builds, fans are curious about how well the game will perform on consoles and whether it will come with a higher price tag. A former Rockstar Games animator recently shared insights on the game’s expected frame rate, while reports suggest it might cost more than previous GTA titles.

Here’s what we know so far.

GTA 6 Likely to Run at 30FPS on Consoles

Former Rockstar Games animator Mike York, who worked on GTA 5 and Red Dead Redemption 2, believes GTA 6 will likely be locked at 30 frames per second (FPS) on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X.

In an interview with Kiwi Talkz, he explained that Rockstar prioritises a stable frame rate and while the game might occasionally hit 40-50FPS, a consistent 60FPS is unlikely unless Rockstar uses AI-driven upscaling or other optimisation methods.

However, PC players can expect higher frame rates after launch depending on their hardware.

Looking at past trends, GTA 5 originally ran at 30FPS on PlayStation 3 and only achieved 60FPS years later when optimized for newer consoles. With GTA 6 featuring enhanced graphics, a similar approach seems likely.

Meanwhile, Industry analyst Matthew Ball suggested in his State of Video Gaming in 2025 report that Rockstar’s parent company Take-Two Interactive may price GTA 6’s standard edition at $100, a notable jump from past releases.

As of the launch date, Spanish retailer XUruguay briefly listed GTA 6’s release date as September 17, 2025, which is exactly 12 years after GTA 5 launched. The listing was quickly removed, leaving fans wondering if it was a real leak or just a placeholder based on Rockstar’s Fall 2025 release window.

FAQs

Q1. What frame rate is GTA 6 expected to run at on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X?

Answer. GTA 6 is expected to run at 30 frames per second (FPS) on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X, with occasional spikes to 40-50FPS but not a consistent 60FPS.

Q2. What might the standard edition of GTA 6 cost?

Answer. Industry analyst Matthew Ball suggests that the standard edition of GTA 6 may be priced at $100, a notable increase from previous releases.

Q3. When was GTA 6’s release date briefly listed by a Spanish retailer?

Answer. A Spanish retailer, XUruguay briefly listed GTA 6’s release date as September 17, 2025, which aligns with Rockstar’s Fall 2025 release window.

Q4. Why is GTA 6 expected to run at a lower frame rate on consoles?

Answer. Former Rockstar Games animator Mike York explains that Rockstar prioritises a stable frame rate and achieving a consistent 60FPS on consoles is unlikely without AI-driven upscaling or other optimisation methods.

Also Read : Leaked: GTA 6 Might Launch in September 2025, Could Cost $100

Also Read : GTA 6 Release Date Leaks and What Gamers Can Expect (Web Story)

Apple Rolls Out iOS 18.3 with Smarter AI and Bug Fixes – Here’s What’s New!

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Highlights

  • iOS 18.3 brings smarter Apple Intelligence features, new Black Unity wallpapers and improved AI-powered notification summaries.
  • Users can now add events to their calendars directly from a poster or flyer with the upgraded Visual Intelligence feature.
  • The update addresses issues like the personalised Gemoji generation bug and a keyboard glitch when typing Siri requests.
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Apple Rolls Out iOS 18.3. (Image credit – Apple)

Apple has started rolling out iOS 18.3, bringing smarter Apple Intelligence features, new wallpapers and important bug fixes. This update comes over a month after the launch of iOS 18.2, which introduced AI-powered tools like Image Playground, Visual Intelligence and Gemoji.

If you update to iOS 18.3, Apple Intelligence will be turned on automatically. If you prefer not to use it, you’ll need to manually disable it by going to Settings > Apple Intelligence & Siri and switching off the “Apple Intelligence” toggle.

Here’s all that is new with the iOS 18.3 update.

Smarter Visual Intelligence

With this update, Visual Intelligence gets an upgrade. You can now add an event to your calendar directly from a poster or flyer, eliminating the need to type in details manually.

New Black Unity Wallpapers for Black History Month

Apple has also added six new Black Unity wallpapers to celebrate Black History Month. These wallpapers feature black, green and red colours inspired by what Apple calls the “rhythm of humanity.”

Improved AI-Powered Summaries

Apple has made some changes to AI-powered notification summaries:

  • News app summaries are now disabled and will display a disclaimer: “Summaries may contain errors.”
  • Summaries for News and Entertainment can be re-enabled in settings.
  • Lock screen notification summaries will now be italicised.
  • Users can now turn off summaries for specific apps by swiping left on a notification, selecting Options and tapping “Turn Off Summaries.”

Bug Fixes and Improvements

iOS 18.3 also fixes several issues including:

  • A bug that prevented personalised Gemoji from generating unless users selected a different person first.
  • A keyboard glitch where the keyboard would disappear when trying to type a Siri request.

With smarter AI, better customisation and important bug fixes, iOS 18.3 is a must-have update for iPhone users.

FAQs

Q1. What new features does iOS 18.3 introduce?

Answer. iOS 18.3 introduces smarter Apple Intelligence features, new Black Unity wallpapers and improved AI-powered notification summaries.

Q2. What improvements have been made to Visual Intelligence in iOS 18.3?

Answer. With the update, Visual Intelligence allows users to add events to their calendar directly from a poster or flyer eliminating the need to manually type in details.

Q3. What bug fixes are included in iOS 18.3?

Answer. iOS 18.3 addresses issues such as the personalised Gemoji generation bug and a keyboard glitch where the keyboard would disappear when trying to type a Siri request.

Read More: Apple Intelligence Features: What New Features Will Release with iOS 18.1

Read More: Apple Teams Up with Major Airlines to Add Lost Item Location Sharing for AirTags in iOS 18.2 Beta

Apple Hits Record $124.30 Billion Q1 2025 Revenue Despite 11% Sales Dip in China, Plans Four New Stores in India

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Highlights

  • Apple reported quarterly revenue of $124.3 billion for fiscal Q1 2025 with a net profit of $36.3 billion and EPS of $2.40.
  • It faced an 11% decline in sales in China due to increased competition and the unavailability of Apple Intelligence.
  • The tech giant plans to open four new stores in India and expand Apple Intelligence to support more languages.
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Apple reports record-breaking Q1 2025 revenue numbers. (Photo by Alexander Schimmeck on Unsplash)

Apple has reported a record-breaking quarterly revenue of $124.3 billion for its fiscal Q1 2025 (ending December 28, 2024), marking a 4% year-over-year (YoY) growth. The company also posted a net profit of $36.3 billion (up 7.07% YoY) and earnings per diluted share of $2.40 (up 10.09% YoY) setting new all-time highs.

During the earnings call, CEO Tim Cook said Apple achieved all-time revenue records in most regions, including the Americas, Europe, Japan and Asia Pacific. Emerging markets also played a key role with Apple setting records in Latin America, the Middle East and South Asia.

During Apple’s FY Q1 2025 earnings results, Apple CEO Tim Cook said, “Today Apple is reporting our best quarter ever, with revenue of $124.3 billion, up 4 per cent from a year ago. We were thrilled to bring customers our best-ever lineup of products and services during the holiday season. Through the power of Apple silicon, we’re unlocking new possibilities for our users with Apple Intelligence, which makes apps and experiences even better and more personal. And we’re excited that Apple Intelligence will be available in even more languages this April.”

New Apple CFO Kevan Parekh added, “Our record revenue and strong operating margins drove EPS to a new all-time record with double-digit growth and allowed us to return over $30 billion to shareholders. We are also pleased that our installed base of active devices has reached a new all-time high across all products and geographic segments.”

China Sales Drop 11%, iPhone Demand Declines

Despite strong global performance, Apple faced challenges in China, where revenue fell 11.1% to $18.51 billion. This is the biggest drop in the region since a nearly 13% decline in Q1 2024. Increased competition from local brands like Huawei, Oppo, and Vivo has made it harder for Apple to maintain market share.

Tim Cook told CNBC that part of the issue is Apple Intelligence, the company’s generative AI platform, which isn’t available in China or several other key markets.

He noted, “During the December quarter, we saw that in markets where we had rolled out Apple Intelligence, that the year-over-year performance on the iPhone 16 family was stronger than those markets where we had not rolled out Apple Intelligence.”

Four New Apple Stores Coming Soon in India

Apple continues to see rapid growth in India and has announced plans to open four new stores in the country. These will be located in Bengaluru, Pune, Delhi-NCR and an additional outlet in Mumbai.

Tim Cook also highlighted Apple’s growing manufacturing presence in India, explaining that production in the country serves both domestic and export markets. He added, “Our business needs certain economies of scale for it to make sense to manufacture in the country.”

Apple Intelligence Expands to More Languages in April

Apple’s AI-powered Apple Intelligence will soon support more languages including French, German, Italian, Portuguese, Spanish, Japanese, Korean and Simplified Chinese. Moreover, localised English versions will roll out for India and Singapore.

New Apple CFO Kevan Parekh emphasised the company’s strong demand in emerging markets. He also noted that the Indian food delivery giant Zomato recently deployed 1,000 Mac devices to its workforce to support innovation.

Apple Key Product and Review Highlights

  • iPhone revenue: $69.1 billion (flat YoY), with all-time records in Canada, Western Europe, Japan, Latin America, the Middle East and South Asia.
  • iPad revenue: $8.1 billion (up 15% YoY), driven by demand for the new iPad Mini and iPad Air.
  • Mac revenue: $9 billion (up 16% YoY), with double-digit growth across all regions.
  • Wearables, Home and Accessories: $11.7 billion (down 2% YoY) but Apple Watch set an all-time high in active users.
  • Services revenue: $26.3 billion (up 14% YoY) setting all-time records in both developed and emerging markets.
  • Active device base: 35 billion active devices worldwide, the highest ever.
  • Paid subscriptions: Over 1 billion paid subscriptions across Apple’s platform growing in double digits.

FAQs

Q1. What was Apple’s quarterly revenue for fiscal Q1 2025?

Answer. Apple reported a record-breaking quarterly revenue of $124.3 billion for fiscal Q1 2025, marking a 4% year-over-year growth.

Q2. How did Apple perform in China during fiscal Q1 2025?

Answer. Apple faced an 11% decline in sales in China, with revenue falling to $18.51 billion due to increased competition from local brands like Huawei, Oppo, and Vivo.

Q3. What are Apple’s plans for expansion in India?

Answer. Apple plans to open four new stores in India, located in Bengaluru, Pune, Delhi-NCR, and an additional outlet in Mumbai. Apple is also expanding its manufacturing presence in India.

Q.4 What key financial achievements did Apple report for fiscal Q1 2025?

Answer. Apple posted a net profit of $36.3 billion (up 7.07% YoY) and earnings per diluted share of $2.40 (up 10.09% YoY), setting new all-time highs.

Read More: Apple India Achieves ₹67,122 Crore Revenue in FY24, Recording 36% Growth Driven by iPhone Sales

Read More: Tim Cook Reflects on Apple’s Journey, Reveals Apple Started Exploring AI in 2017

Limited Edition Gold-Plated Bitcoin iPhone 16 Pro Series Launched by Caviar, Just 47 Units Available

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Highlight

  • Caviar has released the limited edition Bitcoin iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max.
  • The special devices are coated in 24k gold with Bitcoin-themed engravings starting at $11,130.
  • Only 47 units will be made symbolising rarity and a reference to the 47th U.S. President Donald Trump.
  • Customers can further personalise their devices with engravings, logos and materials.
  • Caviar is known for its high-end, limited-edition products including a $301,070 iPhone 16 Pro Max with a 1kg 18-karat gold crown.
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Limited Edition Gold-Plated Bitcoin iPhone 16 Pro. (Image credit – Caviar)

Luxury tech brand Caviar has unveiled its latest creation – the Bitcoin Edition iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max. These ultra-premium devices start at $11,130 and come coated in 24k gold featuring detailed 3D engravings of the Bitcoin logo and blockchain-inspired patterns.

Caviar says the design is a “luxurious tribute to the world’s leading cryptocurrency despite Bitcoin’s ongoing controversy and lack of legal recognition in many regions. Caviar notes, “This exclusive design draws inspiration from the revolutionary world of cryptocurrency, celebrating the legacy of Bitcoin as the pioneer of digital currencies.”

As for the special design, “The phone body is crafted from durable materials and coated in 24K gold by means of Double Electroplated technology for a luxurious and premium finish. [….] The back panel features intricate 3D engravings of the Bitcoin logo, surrounded by detailed blockchain-inspired patterns.

Check out the product video –

Only 47 units of this exclusive edition will be made, a number chosen to reference U.S. President Donald Trump the 47th president. According to Caviar’s website, “47 represents both rarity and a link to a significant figure in modern politics.”

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Customers can further personalise their Bitcoin Gold Plated iPhone with custom engravings, initials, logos, material changes and design modifications.

Customisation options include:

  • Personal engraving on the side edges
  • Applying your logo or initials
  • Modifying any design elements
  • Material replacement
  • Adding your own shapes and elements
  • Developing a unique packaging

Caviar is no stranger to extravagant tech. The brand is known for its high-end limited-edition devices. It recently launched the most expensive iPhone 16 Pro Max called “The Great, The Terrible, The Magnificent,” which features a 1kg, 18-karat gold crown inspired by historical rulers like Ivan the Terrible, Suleiman the Magnificent and Charlemagne. The price for that luxury edition iPhone 16 Pro Max starts at a staggering $301,070.

FAQs

Q1. What is the starting price of the Bitcoin Edition iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max?

Answer. The starting price of the Bitcoin Edition iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max is $11,130.

Q2. How many units of the Bitcoin Edition iPhone will be made?

Answer. Only 47 units of the Bitcoin Edition iPhone will be made, symbolizing rarity and a reference to the 47th U.S. President, Donald Trump.

Q3. What customisation options are available for the Bitcoin Gold Plated iPhone?

Answer. Customers can personalise their Bitcoin Gold Plated iPhone with custom engravings, initials, logos, material changes and design modifications.

Read More: Bitcoin Surges Past $100,000 Record-Breaking Milestone: Industry Experts React

Read More: Flipkart Monumental Sale: iPhone 16 Pro Now at ₹1,07,900 After 10% Discount

Mark Zuckerberg Hints at a 2025 Comeback for ‘OG Facebook’

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Highlights

  • Mark Zuckerberg aims to revive ‘OG Facebook’ in 2025 to increase its relevance.
  • Facebook faces declining interest among teens and Gen Z who prefer platforms like TikTok, Instagram and Snapchat.
  • Meta is investing in product improvements and a Gen Z-focused redesign to attract younger users.
Meta to focus on ‘OG Facebook’ in 2025. (Photo by Firmbee.com on Unsplash)

During Meta’s latest earnings call, CEO Mark Zuckerberg shared an interesting focus for 2025 is to bring back ‘OG Facebook.’ While Facebook remains a massive platform with over 3 billion monthly active users, it has definitely lost some of its relevance in today’s social media landscape.

According to the transcript of Meta’s recent earnings call, Zuckerberg wants to change that. He said, “Facebook is used by more than 3 billion monthly actives and we’re focused on growing its cultural influence. I’m excited this year to get back to some OG Facebook.”

Zuckerberg further explained, “I think that there are a lot of opportunities to make it way more culturally influential than it is today. And I think that that’s sort of a fun and interesting goal that will take our product development in some interesting directions that we maybe haven’t had a focus on it as much over the last several years.”

“So I don’t know that I have anything much more specific on this other than that this is going to be one of my focus areas for this year. I mean I think it’s an investment area and something I’m going to spend some time on. […….] But overall, I’m really excited about doing some exciting stuff here…as we start rolling stuff out…I think some of this will kind of get back to how Facebook was originally used back in the day. So I think it will be fun,” he added

It was clear that he didn’t provide details but later in the call, he hinted that Meta might prioritise product improvements over immediate financial gains. He explained, “It might mean that in the near term, we make some trade-offs to kind of focus on some product areas of what we’re doing ahead of just kind of maximizing business results in the near term on it.”

One of Facebook’s biggest challenges is declining interest among young users. A 2024 Pew Research survey found that only 33% of U.S. teens (ages 13-17) use Facebook today, a sharp drop from 71% in 2014-2015. Meanwhile, an eMarketer study from August 2024 showed that Gen Z users (18-24) spend twice as much time on TikTok, Instagram, and Snapchat compared to the average U.S. adult.

Meta has already tried to win back young users with a Gen Z-focused redesign in October 2024, emphasising on local communities, videos and Facebook Groups.

However, it’s unclear if these efforts will help Facebook compete with Gen Z’s favourite app TikTok. Interestingly, when the U.S. temporarily banned TikTok, many young users didn’t return to Meta’s platforms and downloaded a Chinese TikTok alternative RedNote instead.

With Zuckerberg’s renewed focus on ‘OG Facebook,’ it remains to be seen whether the platform can regain its influence among younger generations.

FAQs

Q1. What is Mark Zuckerberg’s focus for Facebook in 2025?

Answer. During Meta’s latest earnings call, Mark Zuckerberg shared that he aims to bring back ‘OG Facebook’ to increase its cultural influence and relevance.

Q2. What challenges is Facebook facing with younger users?

Answer. Facebook faces declining interest among teens and Gen Z users. A 2024 Pew Research survey found that only 33% of U.S. teens (ages 13-17) use Facebook today, a significant drop from 71% in 2014-2015.

Q3. What strategies is Meta implementing to attract younger users?

Answer. Meta is investing in product improvements and a Gen Z-focused redesign, emphasizing local communities, videos, and Facebook Groups, to enhance engagement and attract younger users to the platform.

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

Read More: Facebook Founder Mark Zuckerberg Criticises Apple for Stagnation and High App Developer Fees

Threads Introduces a ‘Media’ Tab and Photo Tagging for a Better User Experience

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Highlights

  • Threads has introduced a ‘media’ tab for photos and videos to enhance user engagement.
  • The platform now also allows users to tag people in photos.
  • Threads has reached 320 million monthly active users showing significant growth.
  • Meta is consistently adding new features like post-scheduling, fediverse integration, custom feeds, and AI-powered trending topic summaries.
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Threads new features like Media tab and photo tagging. (Image credit – Adam Mosseri on Threads)

Meta’s social platform Threads has been focusing on the user experience aspect of the app for some time now. The platform recently has rolled out a dedicated ‘media’ tab for photos and videos, which will make it easier to view shared content in one place. This update comes just days after its competitors including X and Bluesky introduced similar features for videos.

Apart from the Media tab, Threads will now let users tag people in photos they upload.

Instagram head Adam Mosseri shared the news on Threads and called the media tab “a long overdue request from the community.” This update could also help Threads compete with video-heavy platforms like TikTok, which is currently facing a possible U.S. ban.

Threads Introduces a ‘Media’ Tab and Photo Tagging for a Better User Experience
These features are rolling out globally along with a new Markup feature announced last week that allows users to easily add their thoughts to someone else’s post.

The announcement follows Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg’s recent update that Threads has reached 320 million monthly active users (MAUs), up from 300 million last month.

Meanwhile, Bluesky’s growth appears to be slowing down as the rise is less than 10% month-over-month in December 2024 compared to a huge 189% jump in November, according to Similarweb. Despite the slowdown, it would be incorrect to say that the platform isn’t a threat to X and Threads as Bluesky continues to grow.

Meta has been consistently adding new features to make Threads more appealing to the users including post scheduling, fediverse integration, custom feeds and AI-powered trending topic summaries. These updates show Meta’s commitment to making Threads a more engaging platform for users.

FAQs

Q1. What new features has Threads recently introduced?

Answer. Threads has introduced a ‘media’ tab for photos and videos, making it easier to view shared content in one place. It also now allows users to tag people in photos they upload.

Q2.How has Threads’ user base grown recently?

Answer. Threads has reached 320 million monthly active users, up from 300 million last month.

Q3. What other features has Meta added to enhance user engagement on Threads?

Answer. Meta has been consistently adding new features such as post scheduling, fediverse integration, custom feeds, and AI-powered trending topic summaries to make Threads more appealing and engaging for users.

Read More: Meta’s Threads Taking Cues from Bluesky to Start Prioritising Accounts You Follow