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Google Pixel 9a Pre-Orders and Release Date Leaked, Launching Earlier Than Expected

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Highlights

  • New reports suggest Google Pixel 9a might launch earlier than expected.
  • Pre-orders could start on March 19 and shipping from March 26.
  • The Pixel 9a is rumoured to be priced at $499 for 128 GB and $599 for 256 GB.
  • It will be available in four colour options – Obsidian, Porcelain, Iris, and Peony.
  • Feature – 6.285-inch OLED display, Tensor G4 chip, and 48MP primary camera, running Android 15 and supporting both wired and wireless charging.
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Google Pixel 9a previously leaked render. (Image credit – OnLeaks/Android Headlines)

Google is gearing up to launch the Pixel 9a and according to new leaks, it might arrive earlier than expected. Google typically unveils its A-series phones around Google I/O in May every year. However, this year things might change since a new report by AndroidHeadlines suggests the Pixel 9a will be announced in March.

Here’s what we know about the launch and the phone itself as of now.

Google Pixel 9a – Launch and Pre-Order (Rumoured)

According to the  AndroidHeadlines report, pre-orders for the Google Pixel 9a will begin on March 19, likely in the US market. The report further asserts that the phone will start shipping and be available in stores on March 26.

Pricing details have also surfaced with the 128GB model expected to cost $499 and the 256GB version at $599. In Canada, these variants could be priced at CAD 679 and CAD 809, respectively.

Moreover, the Pixel 9a may be available in four colour options, which most likely will include Obsidian, Porcelain, Iris and Peony.

Rumoured Pixel 9a – Specifications

Leaks suggest the Pixel 9a will feature a 6.285-inch OLED display with FHD+ resolution and 2,700 nits peak brightness. It is expected to run Android 15 out of the box.

For cameras, the device could sport a 48MP primary sensor with OIS and a 13MP ultra-wide lens, while the front-facing camera might be a 13MP Sony IMX712 sensor. Under the hood, the Tensor G4 chip will power the phone, paired with LPDDR5x RAM and UFS 3.1 storage.

The battery is rumoured to be 5,100mAh supporting 23W wired and 7.5W wireless charging. Other features may include a Titan M2 security chip, an in-display fingerprint scanner, and an IP68-rated design.

With an earlier launch timeline and solid specs, the Pixel 9a could be one of Google’s most exciting mid-range phones yet.

FAQs

Q1. When will the Google Pixel 9a be available for pre-order and shipping?

Answer. According to the AndroidHeadlines report, pre-orders for the Google Pixel 9a will begin on March 19, and the phone will start shipping and be available in stores on March 26.

Q2. What are the rumoured pricing details for the Google Pixel 9a?

Answer. The 128GB model is expected to cost $499, and the 256GB version at $599. In Canada, these variants could be priced at CAD 679 and CAD 809, respectively.

Q3. What are the expected specifications of the Google Pixel 9a?

Answer. The Pixel 9a is rumoured to feature a 6.285-inch OLED display with FHD+ resolution, Tensor G4 chip, 48MP primary camera with OIS, 13MP ultra-wide lens, 5,100mAh battery with 23W wired and 7.5W wireless charging, and run Android 15 out of the box.

Also Read: Google Pixel 9a Prototype Leak Reveals New Design Changes

Also Read: Google Pixel 9a to Offer Big Upgrades with No Price Rise

Vivo T4x 5G and Y59 5G Spotted On BIS, Set to Launch in India Soon

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Highlights

  • Vivo T4x 5G and Y59 5G have received BIS certification indicating an imminent launch in India.
  • Model numbers V2437 for Vivo T4x 5G and V2443 for Y59 5G have been spotted.
  • The exact specifications of both models or even the launch date are yet to be revealed.
  • Based on their predecessors, these new models could feature upgraded designs and specs with similarities to the Vivo T3x and Y58.
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Two upcoming Vivo smartphones with model numbers V2437 and V2443 were reportedly spotted on the BIS website. (Image credit – My Smart Price)

vivo is preparing to launch two new smartphones in India seemingly named the vivo T4x 5G and vivo Y59 5G.

According to a recent report by MySmartPrice, both devices have recently received BIS certification suggesting that their official debut could happen in the coming weeks. Here’s everything we know about the upcoming phones as of now.

First of all, the Vivo T4x 5G is listed under model number V2437, while the Y59 5G carries model number V2443.

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Vivo T4x 5G and Vivp Y59 5G were spotted on the BIS website with model numbers V2437 and V2443, respectively. (Image credit – My Smart Price)

While the certification confirms their arrival, it doesn’t reveal any specifications. However, looking at their predecessors gives us a good idea of what to expect.

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Vivo T3x Design. (Image credit – Vivo)

The previous generation vivo T3x, which launched in April last year with a starting price of ₹13,499, featured a 6.72-inch Full HD+ display, a Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 chipset, up to 8GB RAM, 128GB/256GB storage, a 50MP main camera, an 8MP selfie shooter and a 6,000mAh battery with 44W fast charging.

Similarly, the vivo Y58 came with a nearly identical setup but was powered by the Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 chipset instead.

Given this trend, the T4x 5G and Y59 5G could be closely related in terms of design and features, with some upgrades. We’ll keep you posted as soon as more details emerge.

FAQs

Q1. What are the model numbers for the upcoming Vivo T4x 5G and Y59 5G?

Answer. The Vivo T4x 5G is listed under model number V2437, while the Y59 5G carries model number V2443.

Q2. Have the Vivo T4x 5G and Y59 5G received any certifications?

Answer. Yes, both devices have recently received BIS certification, suggesting their official debut could happen in the coming weeks.

Q3. What can be expected in terms of design and features for the Vivo T4x 5G and Y59 5G?

Answer. While the certification doesn’t reveal specifications, based on their predecessors (Vivo T3x and Y58), the new models could feature upgraded designs and specs with similarities to the previous generation.

Also Read : Vivo T3X 5G is Now Available at an Attractive New Price – Should You Buy the Phone?

Also Read : Vivo V50 Could Launch in India in February – Likely to Feature Snapdragon 7 Gen 3

A Quick Look At Nothing 2025 Lineup – Phone (3a), Phone (3a) Pro and Phone (3)

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Highlights

  • Nothing is expanding its lineup in 2025 with three new devices – Nothing Phone (3a), Phone (3a) Pro and the Phone (3).
  • Nothing Phone (3a) – 6.8-inch OLED display, Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 chipset and a triple-camera setup.
  • The Phone (3a) Pro may have a periscope telephoto lens.
  • Nothing Phone (3) – 6.7-inch OLED panel, Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 and improved AI processing.

Nothing has been making a name for itself in the smartphone world with its transparent designs, clean software and unique ecosystem. The company is now gearing up to expand its lineup in 2025 with three new devices – Nothing Phone (3a), Phone (3a) Pro and the flagship Phone (3).

Here’s what we know about the devices so far.

Nothing Phone (3a) – A Mid-Range Powerhouse

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Nothing Phone (2a). (Image credit – Nothing)

If the Nothing Phone (2a) was any indication, the upcoming Phone (3a) will likely be a budget-friendly mid-ranger that doesn’t compromise on style. While official details are still under wraps, leaks suggest the following –

  • Display: A 8-inch OLED panel with a 120Hz refresh rate, likely featuring a flat design.
  • Chipset: Powered by the Snapdragon 7s Gen 3, an upgrade over the Dimensity 7200 Pro in the Phone (2a).
  • Cameras: A triple-camera setup with a 50MP primary sensor, a 50MP telephoto lens (2x optical zoom) and an 8MP ultrawide sensor.
  • Battery & Charging: 5000mAh battery with 45W fast charging.
  • Glyph Interface: The signature LED-backed Glyph interface is expected to return but may have fewer lighting elements to keep costs down.

The Phone (3a) is expected to be a value-for-money option for those who love Nothing’s design and software but don’t need a high-end flagship.

Nothing Phone (3a) Pro

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Nothing Phone (2a) Plus. (Image credit – Nothing)

The Phone (3a) Pro could be an entirely new device in Nothing’s lineup or simply a renamed successor to the Phone (2a) Plus. The expected features –

  • Same Chipset: Rumors suggest it will also run on the Snapdragon 7s Gen 3.
  • Better Camera: The key difference might be a periscope telephoto lens instead of the standard telephoto camera on the Phone (3a).

While the exact positioning of the Phone (3a) Pro remains unclear, it could be a more premium mid-range option with better camera capabilities.

Nothing Phone (3) – The Flagship

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Nothing Phone (2). (Image credit – Nothing)

The Nothing Phone (3) is expected to be the true successor to the Nothing Phone (2) bringing refinements rather than major design changes.

Expected Features:

  • Display: A 7-inch OLED panel with LTPO technology for a variable refresh rate (1Hz-120Hz), improving battery efficiency.
  • Chipset: Snapdragon 8s Gen 3, delivering better AI processing and power efficiency.
  • Cameras: A 50MP primary sensor, a 50MP ultrawide, and possibly a dedicated telephoto lens.
  • Battery & Charging: Around 5000mAh with 65W wired charging and 15W wireless charging.
  • Software: Nothing OS 3.0, keeping its clean, stock-like Android experience with a few custom tweaks.
  • Build & Design: Transparent glass back, aluminium frame, thinner bezels.
  • Glyph Interface: More customisation options for notifications, ringtones, and third-party app integrations.

The Nothing Phone (3) could be a strong competitor to the OnePlus 13, Pixel 9 and Galaxy S25 with these specs. It may not have the absolute best specs but Nothing’s appeal lies in its design and software experience rather than just raw power.

FAQs

Q1. What are the three new devices Nothing is launching in 2025?

Answer. Nothing is launching three new devices in 2025: Nothing Phone (3a), Phone (3a) Pro, and the flagship Phone (3).

Q2. What features are expected in the Nothing Phone (3a)?

Answer. The Nothing Phone (3a) is expected to feature a 6.8-inch OLED panel with a 120Hz refresh rate, Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 chipset, a triple-camera setup with a 50MP primary sensor and a 5000mAh battery with 45W fast charging.

Q3. What differentiates the Nothing Phone (3a) Pro from the Phone (3a)?

Answer. The Phone (3a) Pro could have a periscope telephoto lens instead of the standard telephoto camera on the Phone (3a). Both devices are rumored to run on the Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 chipset.

Q4. What are the expected features of the Nothing Phone (3) flagship?

Answer. The Nothing Phone (3) is expected to have a 6.7-inch OLED panel with LTPO technology, Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 chipset, a 50MP primary sensor, a 50MP ultrawide, and possibly a dedicated telephoto lens with a 5000mAh battery and 65W wired charging.

Q5. What makes the Nothing Phone (3) a strong competitor to major brands?

Answer. The Nothing Phone (3) combines a transparent design, clean software experience, and competitive specs, making it a strong competitor to the OnePlus 13, Pixel 9, and Galaxy S25.

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

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Highlights

  • Leaked reports suggest GTA 6 might launch on September 17, 2025.
  • An online store briefly listed the release date.
  • Rockstar Games and Take-Two Interactive have not officially confirmed any details.
  • Industry analysts suggest the game might cost $100 reflecting a possible price increase for AAA games.
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GTA 6 release date leaked by Spanish online store. (Image credit – Rockstar Games)

The hype around Grand Theft Auto VI (GTA 6) is growing, especially after a leaked release date and rumours of a $100 price tag surfaced online. While Rockstar Games has been radio silent since releasing the first trailer in December last year, a recent online store listing and industry analysis have fueled speculation.

Online Store Leak the GTA 6 Release Date

A Spanish retailer, XUruguay briefly listed GTA 6 with a release date of September 17, 2025. This date stands out because it would mark 12 years since GTA V launched and matches Rockstar’s previously confirmed “fall 2025” release window.

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Spanish store XUruguay recently listed the GTA 6 release date as September 17, 2025. (Screenshot credit – 80Levels)

However, the listing was quickly taken down and GTA fans since then have been speculating on whether it was a legitimate leak or a dead end.

According to gaming news site 80 Level, XUruguay also claimed to have a connection with PlayStation, which added to the speculation. However, Rockstar Games and Take-Two Interactive have not officially confirmed any launch details.

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News site 80 Level shared XUruguay’s response. (Translated Via Google Translate) (Screenshot credit – 80Levels)

Will GTA 6 Cost $100?

Another most talked about aspect related to GTA 6 has been the possible price increase. Industry analyst Matthew Ball recently suggested in his “State of Video Gaming in 2025” report that the game’s standard edition could cost $100.

He believes that because of GTA 6’s massive popularity, Take-Two Interactive might use this as an opportunity to raise the price of AAA games. The industry has already seen game prices go up—from $60 to $70 with the launch of next-gen consoles in 2020. But a jump to $100 would be a major leap.

With no official word from Rockstar yet, fans will have to wait and see if GTA 6 really does launch next September and whether they’ll need to shell out $100 to play it.

FAQS

Q1. When is GTA 6 rumoured to be released?

Answer. A Spanish retailer, XUruguay briefly listed GTA 6 with a release date of September 17, 2025. This date stands out because it would mark 12 years since GTA V launched.

Q2. Has Rockstar Games confirmed the release date for GTA 6?

Answer. No, Rockstar Games and Take-Two Interactive have not officially confirmed any launch details for GTA 6.

Q3. What is the rumoured price for GTA 6?

Answer. Industry analyst Matthew Ball suggested that the game’s standard edition could cost $100, reflecting a possible price increase due to GTA 6’s massive popularity.

Q4. What is the basis for the speculation about GTA 6’s release date and price?

Answer. The speculation is based on a brief listing by Spanish retailer XUruguay and industry analysis. However, the listing was quickly taken down, leaving fans unsure if it was a legitimate leak or just a placeholder.

Read More: GTA VI: Rockstar officially announces a launch date of Fall 2025 for the highly anticipated title

Report: iPhones May Get Starlink Satellite Connectivity

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Highlights

  • Apple is working with SpaceX and T-Mobile to integrate Starlink satellite connectivity into iPhones.
  • It will improve the satellite communication feature introduced with the iPhone 14.
  • The feature is in its early beta phase and available for iPhone users running iOS 18.3.
  • T-Mobile already testing it with a limited number of users.
  • The collaboration currently supports text messaging via satellite only.
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Apple is reportedly working with SpaceX & T-Mobile for Starlink connectivity for iPhones. (Image credit – Apple)

Apple is reportedly working with SpaceX and T-Mobile to bring Starlink satellite connectivity to iPhones. This could improve the satellite communication feature that Apple first introduced with the iPhone 14 series in 2022, which has since been included in the iPhone 15 and iPhone 16 models as well.

Here’s what we know about the possible collaboration as of now.

Apple’s Secret Partnership with SpaceX & T-Mobile

According to a Bloomberg report, Apple has been quietly collaborating with SpaceX and T-Mobile to integrate Starlink satellite connectivity into iPhones. This effort likely builds on the T-Mobile and SpaceX partnership announced in 2022.

The report also reveals that T-Mobile has already begun testing the feature with a limited number of iPhone users.

Beta Testing Currently On iOS 18.3

The Starlink connectivity feature is still in its early beta phase, so it may not be fully optimised yet. However, it is already available for iPhone users running iOS 18.3, which was recently released.

In an official note about the T-Mobile Starlink beta, the carrier stated, “You can now stay connected by texting via satellite from virtually anywhere. To start experiencing coverage beyond, please update to iOS 18.3.”

T-Mobile previously announced that Samsung Galaxy phones would also be getting Starlink support. The Apple collaboration only allows text messaging via satellite as of now. However, there are plans to expand support for voice calls and data in the future.

Apple was previously rumoured to be working with GlobalStar for its satellite connectivity feature. However, this new partnership suggests that Apple is expanding its collaboration with T-Mobile, which has stated that all users will get access to the feature later this year.

FAQs

Q1. What collaboration is Apple working on for satellite connectivity in iPhones?

Answer. Apple is reportedly working with SpaceX and T-Mobile to bring Starlink satellite connectivity to iPhones, building on a partnership announced in 2022.

Q2. What is the current status of the Starlink connectivity feature on iPhones?

Answer. The Starlink connectivity feature is in its early beta phase and available for iPhone users running iOS 18.3. T-Mobile has begun testing it with a limited number of iPhone users.

Q3. What are the future plans for the Starlink satellite connectivity feature?

Answer. Currently, the collaboration only supports text messaging via satellite, but there are plans to expand support for voice calls and data in the future.

Read More: SpaceX Falcon 9 to Launch India’s Heaviest Satellite GSAT-N2, Report Raises Security Concerns Around Starlink

Read More: iPhone 14 Series Sales Skyrocketing, Surpasses Samsung

Read More:Starlink Internet Coming to India: Discover All About Elon Musk’s Satellite Internet Service

YouTube Users Report Seeing 3 Hours Long Un-Skippable Ads, YouTube Confirms It’s Not a Glitch

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Highlights

  • YouTube users report seeing unusually long, unskippable ads lasting from 57 minutes to 3 hours.
  • These long unskippable ads are reportedly targeting users who are using ad blockers.
  • YouTube confirms this is not a glitch and regular users can skip ads after 15 seconds.
  • Ad-blocking users face these long ads to enforce YouTube’s Terms of Use.
  • YouTube encourages users to disable ad blockers or subscribe to YouTube Premium for an ad-free experience.
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It is getting more and more difficult to skip YouTube ads. (Photo by Szabo Viktor on Unsplash)

It appears YouTube’s crackdown on users who use adblockers to enjoy ad-free content without a Premium subscription is getting serious. Some YouTube users on Reddit are reporting seeing unusually long, unskippable ads lasting anywhere from 57 minutes to a shocking 3 hours.

Screenshots shared on Reddit even show ads longer than the videos themselves leaving many users frustrated and wondering if this is a glitch or an intentional move by YouTube.

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A YouTube user’s post on Reddit.
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Another user posted on Reddit complaining about getting ads on every minute of streaming.

Some users noticed that the usual “Skip Ad” button was missing, while others found it appearing below the video instead of in the usual spot. This has led to speculation that adblockers might be interfering with how ads are displayed, potentially hiding the skip option or affecting ad duration.

YouTube Confirms 3 Hours Unskippable Ads Are Not A Glitch

YouTube confirmed that these long ads primarily target users with ad blockers. According to the company, regular users still have the option to skip ads after 15 seconds. YouTube also reiterated that ads help support content creators and that using ad blockers violates its Terms of Use.

“YouTube does not serve minutes-long, non-skippable ads,” said YouTube Communications Manager Oluwa Falodun while speaking to The Verge. Blaming the adblockers, Falodun further explained, “Viewers with ad blockers may experience a suboptimal viewing experience as some ad blockers distort the YouTube playback experience.”

The platform encourages users to either disable their ad blockers or subscribe to YouTube Premium for an ad-free experience.

YouTube’s Crackdown on Ad Blockers

YouTube has been ramping up its efforts against ad blockers in several ways including the following –

  • Inserting ads when users pause videos.
  • Slowing down YouTube for those with ad blockers.
  • Limiting video views for ad-blocking users.
  • Displaying pop-ups promoting YouTube Premium.

Reddit users have shared extreme cases with ads reported to be as long as 10 hours. One unverified claim even mentioned a 90-hour-long ad. A particularly frustrating case involved a 2-hour 52-minute ad before a 49-minute video. These reports have only added to speculation that adblockers may be affecting ad behaviour, causing longer and unskippable ads.

What Did Google Say?

Google confirmed that regular users typically see un-skippable ads of up to 15 seconds on mobile and 60 seconds on TV. However, they admitted that long ads specifically target ad-blocking users as part of a broader effort to curb ad evasion.

YouTube made it clear that users must either watch ads or pay for YouTube Premium hinting at even stricter measures in the future for persistent ad-blocking users.

FAQs

Q1. What are some YouTube users experiencing with ads?

Answer. Some YouTube users are reporting unusually long, un-skippable ads lasting from 57 minutes to 3 hours.

Q2. Why are some YouTube users seeing long unskippable ads?

Answer. YouTube confirmed that these long ads primarily target users with ad blockers. Regular users can skip ads after 15 seconds while ad-blocking users face longer ads as part of YouTube’s efforts to curb ad evasion.

Q3. What can users do to avoid long un-skippable ads on YouTube?

Answer. YouTube encourages users to either disable their ad blockers or subscribe to YouTube Premium for an ad-free experience.

Read More: YouTube Targets Ad Blockers with Video Skipping Glitch, Users Report Issues

Read More: Reddit Users Report Spotify Shuffle Feature Isn’t Shuffling, Repeats Same Tracks

Instagram Gives Creators More Tools to Track Reel Performance

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Highlights

  • Instagram introduces new insights for Reels to help creators understand their performance.
  • New tools include metrics like “View Rate” and “Views Over Time.”
  • Also introduces personalised performance tips and additional tools to provide creators with actionable insights to improve engagement.
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Instagram adds new tools for Creators. (Photo by Souvik Banerjee on Unsplash)

It is no secret that Meta has been actively working to attract TikTok creators since the whole TikTok ban drama started. In the latest development, Instagram is now making it easier for creators to understand how their Reels are performing. Here’s what we know.

The platform announced on its official Creators handle that is introducing new insights to help creators see what kind of content connects best with their audience.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Instagram’s @Creators (@creators)

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Instagram’s new View Rate metrics. (Images credit – Meta)

One of the new tools is the “View Rate” metric, which shows what percentage of viewers including followers and non-followers continue watching a video after the first three seconds. Instagram emphasises that the first few seconds are crucial as grabbing attention early increases the chances of viewers watching the full video.

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Instagram’s new Views Over Time metrics. (Images credit – Meta)

Another new feature, “Views Over Time,” lets creators track how many views their Reel has received compared to their usual performance. This breakdown includes separate insights for followers and non-followers helping creators see where their audience engagement is coming from.

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Instagram adds Tips for creators. (Images credit – Meta)

Beyond these metrics, Instagram will now provide personalised performance tips. If a Reel is doing significantly better than usual, Instagram might suggest making more content like it. For example, a message could say: “This reel is doing great! It got 20% more views than the average of your recent reels. Create more reels like this.”

Instagram’s latest updates come as the platform aggressively targets TikTok creators. In addition to offering bonuses and content deals, Instagram is positioning itself as the go-to platform for short-form video content.

With TikTok still missing from U.S. app stores after briefly going offline for 12 hours last week, Instagram is seizing the opportunity to attract more creators and viewers.

FAQs

Q1. What is the new “View Rate” metric on Instagram Reels?

Answer. The “View Rate” metric shows what percentage of viewers including followers and non-followers, continue watching a video after the first three seconds. Instagram emphasises that the first few seconds are crucial as grabbing attention early increases the chances of viewers watching the full video.

Q2. How does the “Views Over Time” feature help creators on Instagram?

Answer. The “Views Over Time” feature lets creators track how many views their Reel has received compared to their usual performance. This breakdown includes separate insights for followers and non-followers, helping creators see where their audience engagement is coming from.

Q3. What personalised performance tips does Instagram provide to creators?

Answer. Instagram will now provide personalised performance tips. If a Reel is doing significantly better than usual, Instagram might suggest making more content like it. For example, a message could say: “This reel is doing great! It got 20% more views than the average of your recent reels. Create more reels like this.”

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

WhatsApp to Stop Working on Older iPhones from May 2025

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Highlights

  • WhatsApp will stop supporting iPhones with iOS versions earlier than 15.1 starting May 5, 2025.
  • It will affect older models like the iPhone 5S, iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus.
  • Beta testers might face issues earlier as the latest Beta version (25.2.10.72) doesn’t work on iOS versions below 15.1.
  • Options for users include upgrading to a newer iPhone, finding alternative messaging apps or delaying app updates.
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WhatsApp will no longer support older iPhones. (Photo by Christian Wiediger on Unsplash)

If you’re using an older iPhone, you might soon lose access to WhatsApp this year. WhatsApp will no longer support iPhones running iOS versions earlier than 15.1 starting from May 5, 2025. This means you won’t receive app updates, new features or security patches. Eventually, the app may stop working altogether.

This change will primarily affect older models like the iPhone 5s, iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus.

Moreover, Beta testers using WhatsApp via TestFlight could be affected even before that. According to WABetaInfo, the latest beta version (25.2.10.72) already doesn’t work on iOS versions below 15.1.

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WhatsApp Beta. (Image credit – WABetaInfo)

Here’s what you can do.

No WhatsApp Support For Older iPhones – Here’s What To Do

Stop Using WhatsApp

If your iPhone doesn’t support iOS 15.1 or later and you don’t plan to upgrade, you will eventually lose access to WhatsApp. The app may stop working after May 5 and you won’t be able to send or receive messages. You may need to consider alternative messaging apps that still support older devices.

Delay Updating The App (Not Recommended)

Some users might try to keep using the last working version of WhatsApp by avoiding app updates. However, this is risky since your phone will miss out on critical security fixes, making it vulnerable to potential threats like hacking and data breaches.

Over time, older versions of WhatsApp may also lose access to essential services, leading to crashes or login issues.

Upgrade to a Newer iPhone

The most viable option for you is to switch to an iPhone that supports iOS 15.1 or later versions. This will ensure you continue receiving WhatsApp updates, security patches and new features. Moreover, upgrading to a new iPhone will also help keep your device secure and compatible with other apps as many developers gradually phase out support for older operating systems.

FAQs

Q1. What will happen to WhatsApp on older iPhones starting May 5, 2025?

Answer. WhatsApp will no longer support iPhones running iOS versions earlier than 15.1. This means users won’t receive app updates, new features, or security patches, and eventually, the app may stop working altogether.

Q2. Which iPhone models are primarily affected by this change?

Answer. Older models like the iPhone 5s, iPhone 6, and iPhone 6 Plus will be primarily affected by this change.

Q3. What are the recommended options for users with older iPhones?

Answer. Users can upgrade to a newer iPhone that supports iOS 15.1 or later, find alternative messaging apps, or delay app updates (though this last option is not recommended due to security risks).

Read More: WhatsApp to Stop Support for Older iPhone and Android Devices

Amazon Fraud Case – FIR Filed Against 22 Ex-Employees Over ₹102 Crore US Truck Data Scam

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Highlights

  • A case has been registered against 22 former Amazon employees in Telangana.
  • The case is for a ₹102 crore fraud involving the manipulation of freight assignments for bribes.
  • Amazon’s internal investigation revealed that employees assigned fraudulent bobtail tasks to US carriers.
  • The accused took bribes ranging from $5 to $500 per assignment or up to $2,000 monthly.
  • All have been charged under various legal sections after Amazon’s complaint led to the registration of an FIR.
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FIR against 22 Amazon ex-employees. (Photo by Christian Wiediger on Unsplash)

Telangana’s Cyber Security Bureau has registered a case against 22 former employees of Amazon Development Centre (India) Pvt Ltd for their involvement in a ₹102 crore fraud. Most of the accused are from Hyderabad, Sangareddy, Karimnagar in Telangana and Vizianagaram, East Godavari and Visakhapatnam in Andhra Pradesh. A few are also from Bhubaneswar, Odisha.

The accused were employed at Amazon’s Relay Operations Centre (ROC) in Nanakramguda, which manages freight operations across multiple countries. According to Amazon’s complaint, they took bribes to manipulate freight assignments, benefiting certain third-party carriers in the US.

Amazon’s Investigation Findings

Amazon’s internal probe, which started on April 30, 2022, found that the two transport specialists at the ROC illegally assigned “bobtails” to US carriers for bribes. Bobtailing refers to empty trucks moving without a trailer between facilities, typically under strict conditions. The accused manipulated this system to assign fraudulent bobtails leading to unauthorised payments.

Further investigation uncovered 18 more employees involved in the fraud, who accepted bribes between $5 and $500 per assignment or monthly payments of up to $2,000.

The employees exploited Amazon’s freight management system (FMC) to rig data and bypass approvals, making it seem like these fake assignments were legitimate. Some employees confessed to their involvement during internal disciplinary proceedings.

The accused have been charged under various sections of the IPC, IT Act and other relevant laws.

Amazon initially filed a private complaint after Gachibowli PS and Cyberabad police’s economic offences wing refused to register an FIR. The Kukatpally court directed the police to file a case, leading to the FIR being transferred to the Telangana State Cyber Security Bureau on January 22.

FAQs

Q1. What is the fraud case involving former Amazon employees in Telangana?

Answer. The fraud involves 22 former Amazon Development Centre employees who manipulated freight assignments for bribes, resulting in a ₹102 crore scam. Most of the accused are from Telangana and Andhra Pradesh.

Q2. How did the former Amazon employees carry out the fraudulent activities?

Answer. The employees at Amazon’s Relay Operations Centre took bribes to assign fraudulent “bobtails” to US carriers, manipulating the freight management system to make these fake assignments appear legitimate. They accepted bribes ranging from $5 to $500 per assignment or monthly payments of up to $2,000.

Q3. What actions have been taken against the 22 former Amazon employees accused of fraud?

Answer. The accused have been charged under various sections of the IPC, IT Act, and other relevant laws. Following Amazon’s complaint and a court directive, the FIR was registered and transferred to the Telangana State Cyber Security Bureau.

Read More: Like a Video and Make Money Scam: All About the Cyber Fraud on WhatsApp

iPhone 15 Available for Just ₹29,700 on Amazon – Here’s How to Get the Deal

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Highlights

  • iPhone 15 (128GB, Blue) is available on Amazon for as low as ₹29,700 with combined offers.
  • The offers include a 25% discount, exchange offer and credit card discount.
  • Exchange offers for an iPhone 14 Plus (512GB) in good condition can reduce the price by up to ₹27,300.
  • Customers can also use an Amazon Pay ICICI Bank credit card gives an additional ₹2,999 off.
  • iPhone 15 features – a 6.1-inch display with Dynamic Island, 48MP primary sensor, A16 Bionic chip, and USB Type-C port.
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iPhone 15. (Image credit – Apple)

If you’ve been waiting for the right time to buy the iPhone 15, this might be it! Thanks to a massive discount on Amazon, you can grab the iPhone 15 (128GB, Blue) for as low as ₹29,700 with the right offers.

Amazon Deal Breakdown

The iPhone 15 (128GB, Blue) was originally priced at ₹79,900 but Amazon has slashed 25% off, which brings the price down to ₹59,999.

Here’s how you can save even more –

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Exchange offer can get you up to INR 27,300 discount. (Image credit – ToI)
  • Exchange Offer – If you trade in an iPhone 14 Plus (512GB) in good condition, you can get up to ₹27,300 off, reducing the price to ₹32,699.
  • Credit Card Discount – Using an Amazon Pay ICICI Bank credit card gets you an extra ₹2,999 off, dropping the price to ₹29,700.

With these combined offers, you’re getting the iPhone 15 at a fraction of its original cost!

iPhone 15 Features

  • Display & Design – 1-inch screen, available in pink, yellow, green, blue and black colours. Features Dynamic Island replacing the traditional notch.
  • Camera Upgrade – 48MP primary sensor, delivering better low-light, daylight and portrait shots.
  • Battery Life – Apple claims “all-day battery life” with real-world usage suggesting over 9 hours on a single charge.
  • Performance – Powered by the A16 Bionic chip, an upgrade over the A15 in previous models.
  • Charging Port – Now features a USB Type-C port replacing the Lightning connector for universal compatibility.

With Amazon’s discount, exchange offer, and bank discounts, this is one of the lowest prices yet for the iPhone 15. If you’re looking to upgrade, now is a great time to make the move!

FAQS

Q1. How much can you get the iPhone 15 (128GB, Blue) for on Amazon with the right offers?

Answer. You can get the iPhone 15 (128GB, Blue) for as low as ₹29,700 on Amazon with a 25% discount, an exchange offer for an iPhone 14 Plus (512GB), and an additional discount using an Amazon Pay ICICI Bank credit card.

Q2. What is the original and discounted price of the iPhone 15 (128GB, Blue) on Amazon?

Answer. The iPhone 15 (128GB, Blue) was originally priced at ₹79,900, but Amazon has slashed 25% off, bringing the price down to ₹59,999.

Q3. What are the key features of the iPhone 15?

Answer. The iPhone 15 features a 6.1-inch display with Dynamic Island, a 48MP primary sensor for better low-light, daylight, and portrait shots, an A16 Bionic chip, USB Type-C port, and a claimed all-day battery life.

Read More: iPhone 15 Flipkart Sale: Get it for just Rs 26,999

Read More: iPhone 14 Plus Now Rs 15,000 Off in Amazon Republic Day Sale