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Dell XPS 16 9640 Review – A Huge and Appealing Premium Laptop

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Highlight

  • The Dell XPS 16 9640 OLED Laptop is available in India at a starting price of ₹3,15,090.
  • Powered by an Intel Core Ultra 9 processor and Nvidia GeForce RTX 4060.

Dell launched XPD 16 9460 laptop in India earlier this year and we have finally managed to spend some time with this high-end machine. Sleek design, a beautiful OLED touchscreen display, powerful Intel core ultra processor and AI integration! Dell is basically offering everything that you expect from a modern premium heavyweight laptop. Here’s our in-depth review to help you understand whether this is your next laptop or not.

Dell XPS 16 9640 – Key Specs

Dell XPS 16 9640 – Key Specs
  • 3-inch 4K+ (3840 x 2400) OLED InfinityEdge touch display
  • Intel Core Ultra 9 Processor 185H (16-core, 24MB Cache, up to 5.1 GHz)
  • Microsoft Windows 11 Home 64-bit
  • 32GB LPDDR5x Dual Channel at 7467 MT/s
  • 1TB PCIe 4 SSD
  • NVIDIA® GeForce RTX™ 4060 Laptop GPU 8GB GDDR6 (50W)
  • 5Whr battery (integrated)
  • ExpressCharge 1.0
  • 130W AC adapter – USB Type-C
  • FHD (1080p) webcam
  • 3x Thunderbolt 4 (USB Type-C) with DisplayPort 2.1
  • Intel Killer Wi-Fi 7* 1750 (BE200) 2×2
  • Bluetooth 5.4 Wireless Card

Dell XPS 16 9640 – Pros & Cons

Pros Cons
●       Sleek, minimalistic design

●       Excellent 4K OLED touchscreen display

●       Intel Core Ultra 7

●       GeForce RTX 4070

●       High performance

●       Good battery life

●       Good I/O

●       Expensive

●       Too heavy

●       Keyboard and trackpad difficult to get used to

Dell XPS 16 9640 – Design, Build Quality and I/O

Dell XPS 16 9640 – Design, Build Quality and I/O

The design of the Dell XPS 16 9640 is sleek and minimalistic that is something we love. Dell has clearly put thought into keeping it simple but also elegant.

As we started using the Dell XPS 16 9640 the one thing that immediately stands out is its premium build quality. You can immediately feel solid construction.

The CNC-machined aluminium body feels incredibly sturdy. However, the weight is an issue. Weighing 2.2kg it is definitely not the lightest laptop we have used. While Dell has tried to strike a balance between being portable and feeling robust, its heaviness is sometimes hard to ignore.

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XPS family laptops have the highest level of sustainable materials. (Image credit – Dell)

We had the silver colour variant for this review and its tone-on-tone colour match between the interior and exterior looks seamless. It’s a design choice that keeps the laptop looking clean and modern.

The huge display only adds to the overall look of the laptop.

The OLED screen is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass Victus, so you don’t have to worry about scratches or damage. Moreover, the palm rest is made from Gorilla Glass 3. It feels smooth but solid under the hands. It gives confidence that this laptop can handle everyday use without showing too much wear and tear.

In terms of ports, the XPS 16 9640 has added everything that is essential

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  1. Down firing speaker
  2. Thermal Intake
  3. microSDXC card reader v6.0 UHS-I/UHS-II
  4. Thunderbolt™ 4 (USB Type-C™) with DisplayPort 2.1 and Power Delivery
  5. 3.5mm headphone/microphone combo jack

We mostly use the Thunderbolt 4 ports for connecting to external displays and fast charging. They were reliable and quick. The laptop has three of these ports, which means you will never feel limited.

There is also a microSD card reader, which is great for transferring files quickly. There is a 3.5mm headphone/microphone combo jack.

For those times when we needed an HDMI or USB-A port, we found that Dell had an adapter in the box.

Overall design-wise, using this laptop feels great.

It is clear that Dell focused on making something durable. It may look sleek from afar, but you will feel the sturdiness as soon as you pick it up. The practical I/O setup makes it a perfect laptop for all work needs as well.

Dell XPS 16 9640 – Display

Dell XPS 16 9640 – Display

The display on the Dell XPS 16 9640 is one of the major highlights. The 16.3-inch InfinityEdge touch display looks stunning. The 4K+ resolution (3840×2400) stands out.

It offers an edge-to-edge view that gives a perfect immersive experience.  The laptop feels smaller than we thought a 16-inch screen would look and feel at first. Dell has managed to make it more portable than we expected.

The colour quality is also good too. The display delivers a wide range of vibrant and accurate colours because of the 100% DCI-P3 colour coverage. We tried editing some photos on the laptop and noticed a big difference. The colours pop on the screen and make the photo appear more lifelike. 

The refresh rate can go up to 120Hz. The screen adjusts automatically based on what you’re doing.

We tried different activities on the laptop including watching videos, playing games or just browsing the web.  Everything looked smoother when we were watching fast-moving content. At the same time, when we tried to read something on the same display, it was more static images. The refresh rate drops to save battery.

It’s one of those features that you don’t always notice. However, it makes a big difference in overall performance and battery life.

The visuals appear sharp on this display without needing to zoom in.

The XPS 16 9640 comes with Dell’s Eyesafe technology. It reduces harmful blue light without changing colour accuracy.

It has Dolby Vision making the visuals look even more immersive with deeper blacks and brighter whites.

The display basically unlocks the full potential of HDR. You can depend on it for everything starting from movies to photos to other dynamic and vivid visuals.

Perfect for both creative work and entertainment.

Dell XPS 16 9640 – Keyboard and Trackpad

Dell XPS 16 9640 – Keyboard and Trackpad

The keyboard and trackpad on the Dell XPS 16 9640 are smooth. Not only in terms of looks but also in touch and feel.

The laptop’s interior is clean and minimalist because of the unique design choice Dell has made. Everything feels well thought out.

The larger keycaps and slightly deeper dish (0.3mm) make typing feel soft. There’s no space between the keys. This makes everything feel more closely connected. Typing on this laptop can be fast once you are used to it. The key presses are not too loud or clunky.

It’s a great balance of tactile feedback and comfort.

The trackpad comes in a seamless glass design. It stretches across the entire palm rest area and gives plenty of room to move around.

The glass surface feels silky smooth under the fingers. It makes scrolling and clicking feel effortless.

Everything is responsive and accurate.

However, typing or navigating on this keyboard didn’t come naturally to us. The design is so unique from any regular laptops we have used to, this felt is little odd. We can safely say that getting used to this design will take some time.

Dell has also adopted the capacitive touch function row. So, you have a touch-sensitive strip instead of traditional physical keys for the function row. How you feel about this is completely subjective. We honestly aren’t comfortable with touch buttons on the keyboard yet. But it can be us. Some users may like this modern “touch.”

Dell XPS 16 9640 – Performance and Features

Dell XPS 16 9640 – Performance and Features

The Dell XPS 16 9640 is powered by Intel Core Ultra 9 processors and NVIDIA RTX 40-series graphics.

This laptop handles everything.

Multitasking feels effortless with lightning-fast LPDDR5x memory.

What stood out for us for how it is noticeably faster than the previous XPS models. It gives up to 80W of sustained performance. We tried every possible task from editing videos, playing games and running multiple programs at the same time. We didn’t face any particular lag or slowdowns as we used it. The laptop stayed smooth and responsive.

We also didn’t notice any heating issues or excessive downward firing of fans. It basically balances power with efficiency well. The Intel Evo platform ensures that the laptop wakes instantly.

Dell has managed AI-driven optimisations that give a boost in performance while saving power. 

The NVIDIA RTX™ 4060 graphics will make a big difference if you are a content creator. It’s also an NVIDIA Studio-validated system. What this means is that it has been designed to handle tough workflows with ease.

Overall, the XPS 16 9640 delivers a fast and reliable in terms of performance. As we mentioned above, it is perfect for both work and play.

Dell XPS 16 9640 – Benchmark Results

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Dell XPS 16 9640 – Battery Life

Dell XPS 16 9640 – Battery Life

The battery life on the Dell XPS 16 9640 has been impressive while we used it. We could comfortably get through a full day of work without constantly reaching for the charger with its large 99.5Whr battery.

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Our Dell XPS 16 review unit lasted about 8 hours as we used it for different tasks. We had the display brightness set at 50% and the audio volume at 70%. So, you can expect a fully-charged Dell XPS 16 9640 to go on almost half of your working day even with heavy use.

It is important to note that this performance is better than many of the best Windows laptops.

Verdict – Should You Buy Dell XPS 16 9640?

Verdict – Should You Buy Dell XPS 16 9640?

The Dell XPS 16 9640 is durable and has a sleek design. The Intel Core Ultra processors and NVIDIA RTX graphics make it perfect for demanding tasks such as content creation, gaming or even multitasking.

The keyboard and trackpad are unique and responsive. And the battery life holds up well for all-day use.

The heaviness could be an issue for some users. We also can’t forget the price tag, which makes it one of the most expensive laptops in the category.

However, the overall experience makes it an excellent choice for professionals and creators.

So, if you want a high-end laptop that promises both power and style, the XPS 16 9640 could be one of the choices to consider.

Reasons to Buy

Reasons to Buy
  • Stunning Display
  • Powerful Performance
  • Premium Build Quality
  • Unique Keyboard and Trackpad
  • Long Battery Life

Reasons Not to Buy

Reasons Not to Buy
  • Weight
  • Price
  • Limited Upgrade Options

Alternatives

Lenovo Legion 9i 13th Gen, 40.64cms – Intel i9 (Carbon Black)

Lenovo Legion 9i 13th Gen, 40.64cms – Intel i9 (Carbon Black)

Features –

  • 13th Generation Intel® Core™ i9-13980HX Processor (E-cores up to 4.00 GHz P-cores up to 5.60 GHz)
  • Windows 11 Home Single Language 64
  • NVIDIA® GeForce RTX™ 4090 Laptop GPU 16GB GDDR6
  • 32 GB DDR5-6400MHz (SODIMM, Over Clock) – (2 x 16 GB)
  • 2 TB SSD M.2 2280 PCIe Gen4 TLC (2 x 1 TB)
  • 64cms (16) 3.2K (3200 x 2000), Mini-LED, Anti-Glare, Non-Touch, HDR 1000, 100% Adobe RGB & 100%DCI-P3, 1200 nits, 165Hz

Price – ₹4,49,991

Asus Zenbook Duo UX8406MA-QL961WS Convertible Laptop

Asus Zenbook Duo UX8406MA-QL961WS Convertible Laptop

Features –

  • Processor: Intel Core Ultra 9 Processor 185H 2.3 GHz (24MB Cache, up to 5.1 GHz, 16 cores, 22 Threads), Intel AI Boost NPU
  • RAM: 32 GB
  • Internal Storage: 1 TB SSD
  • Operating System: Windows 11 Home
  • Microsoft Office included: Yes
  • Graphics Card: Intel Arc Graphics

Price –  ₹2,40,999

FAQs

Q1. What type of display does the Dell XPS 16 9640 have?

Answer. The Dell XPS 16 9640 features a stunning 16.3-inch OLED display with 100% DCI-P3 colour coverage, offering vibrant colours and deep blacks for an immersive viewing experience.

Q2. What processors can I find in the Dell XPS 16 9640?

Answer. The Dell XPS 16 9640 is powered by up to Intel® Core™ Ultra 9 processors, delivering exceptional performance for demanding tasks and multitasking.

Q3. Does the Dell XPS 16 9640 have dedicated graphics?

Answer. Yes, the Dell XPS 16 9640 includes NVIDIA RTX™ 40-series graphics, providing powerful performance for gaming and content creation.

Q4. What is the battery life like on the Dell XPS 16 9640?

Answer. The Dell XPS 16 9640 features a 99.5Whr integrated battery that provides long-lasting power, along with ExpressCharge technology for quick recharging.

Q5. Is the keyboard comfortable on the Dell XPS 16 9640?

Answer. Yes, the Dell XPS 16 9640 has a comfortable keyboard with larger keycaps and a smooth touchpad, making it ideal for long typing sessions and everyday use. However, it may take a while to get used to it.

Read More: Dell Latitude 7450 2-in-1 Laptop Review: A Perfect Work Mate for the Go

Read More: Dell XPS 14 9440 Review: A Build-to-Last Laptop with Bold Design Choices and a Hefty Price Tag

Read More: Dell Technologies Launches the New Latitude 7455 Copilot AI PC Powered by Snapdragon X-Series Processors for Business Professionals in India – Price, Specifications, Features, Availability

Festive Season Car Launches: What To Expect This October

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Highlights

  • 2024 Kia Carnival: Modern design with dual 12.3-inch displays, 3-row seating and Level-2 ADAS.
  • 2024 Kia EV9: 561 km range, dual electric motors, 99.8 kWh battery and ultra-fast charging.
  • Nissan Magnite Facelift: Refreshed exterior, 72hp engine, advanced safety with Level-2 ADAS.
  • BYD eMAX 7: 530 km range, 12.8-inch rotating infotainment screen, premium MPV with ADAS suite.
  • Maruti Suzuki Dzire Facelift: Refreshed design, new 1.2-litre engine, segment-first electric sunroof.
  • Mercedes-Benz E-Class LWB: Advanced MBUX system, superior customization options, first right-hand drive LWB model.

As October begins, begins the festive season!

It is also one of those times of the year when many people upgrade their prized possessions. Cars fall into this category. This whole festive season is the time most people upgrade their vehicles and carmakers also stay prepared understanding this surge in demand.

Recent months have witnessed numerous launches of new models and variants and October promises more of the same. We expect some highly anticipated cars to finally hit the road this month

Here’s what new to expect in the car industry in October 2024.

Nissan Magnite Facelift

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Nissan Magnite facelift in India will be available with price starting at Rs 5.99 lakh (ex-showroom). (Image credit – Nissan)

Launch Date October
Expected Price Starting at ₹5.99 lakh (ex-showroom)
Variants Visia, Visia Plus, Acenta, N-Connecta, Tekna, and Tekna Plus

Key Features

  • Design: Refreshed exterior with a larger, wider grille, new faux skid plate, integrated fog lamps, redesigned LED DRLs and updated LED tail lamps.
  • Interior: Dual-tone copper and black dashboard, door pads, seat upholstery, new 16-inch alloy wheels and a refreshed profile.
  • Performance: Carries over the 72hp, 96Nm, 1.0-litre NA petrol and 100hp, 160Nm engine options with a 5-speed manual gearbox and optional 5-speed AMT or CVT.
  • Safety: Level-2 ADAS, 8 airbags, and a 360-degree camera.
  • Technology: Remote engine start, Nissan Around View Monitor and advanced technological features.

2024 Kia Carnival

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 Books for the 2024 Kia Carnival started last month. (Image credit – Kia)

Launch Date October 3
Expected Price ₹63.90 lakh (ex-showroom)
Variants Limousine and Limousine Plus

Key Features

  • Design: The 2024 Kia Carnival sports a modern design with a new and larger tiger nose grille, revised front bumper, vertically stacked LED headlamps with L-shaped DRLs and connected LED tail lamps.
  • Seating: It offers a 3-row seating layout with captain seats in the second row.
  • Displays: Dual 12.3-inch displays for the driver and infotainment system.
  • Sunroofs: Dual sunroofs for added light and ventilation.
  • Engine: Powered by a 2.2-litre diesel engine mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission.
  • Safety: Level-2 ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems), 8 airbags and a 360-degree camera.
  • Comfort: Ventilated front and second-row seats, 12-speaker Bose audio system and a head-up display.
  • Exterior: 18-inch alloy wheels, LED rear combination lamps and shark fin antenna.

Kia EV9

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Kia EV9 brand’s flagship electric vehicle (EV). (Image credit – Kia)

Launch Date October 3
Expected Price ₹1.3 crore (ex-showroom)
Variants Single fully-loaded GT-line AWD variant
Sales Route Completely Built Unit (CBU) model

Key Features –

  • Exterior: Modern, robust design with a distinctive boxy silhouette, Features sleek LED headlamps, a ‘Digital Tiger Face’ grille, and ‘Star Map’ LED accents.
  • Ground Clearance: 200 mm.
  • Wheel Sizes: 20 to 22 inches.
  • Battery: 8 kWh battery pack
  • Power: Dual electric motors producing 384 hp and 700 Nm of torque
  • Range: ARAI-certified range of 561 km on a single full charge
  • Charging: 10-80% charge in 24 minutes
  • Acceleration: 0-100 km/h in 5.3 seconds
  • Seating: Spacious three-row seating arrangement accommodating up to seven passengers
  • Infotainment:3-inch dual-screen layout integrating the infotainment system and driver information
  • Additional Features: Heated seats, dual sunroofs, advanced safety features and over-the-air software updates

BYD eMAX 7

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eMAX 7 will be a new generation of the BYD e6 MPV with significant updates such as a brand new touchscreen. (Image – BYD)

Launch Date October 8
Expected Price ₹30.00 – ₹32.00 lakh (ex-showroom)
Variants Six-seat and seven-seat configurations

Key Features

  • Design: Premium MPV with the signature BYD face, updated grille and new tail lamps.
  • Seating: Three-row seating with a panoramic glass roof.
  • Battery and Range:8 kWh battery offering a range of 530 km.
  • Performance: 204 bhp and 310 Nm of torque.
  • Technology: 12.8-inch rotating infotainment screen, ADAS suite, and other advanced features.
  • Interior: Leatherette upholstery, soft-touch dashboard materials, and redesigned centre console with faux wood and aluminium accents.

Maruti  Suzuki Dzire

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Maruti Suzuki Dzire will enter its 4th generation this year with the upcoming launch. The exact image is not revealed yet.

Launch Date Late October – November 4
Expected Price Starting at ₹7.00 lakh (ex-showroom)
Variants Base, LXi, VXi, VXi+, ZXi, ZXi+, and ZX+

Key Features

  • Design: Fresh front and rear bumpers, new grille with multiple horizontal slats, LED headlamps with DRLs and fog lights, dual-tone alloy wheels, LED taillights with triangular graphics and shark-fin antenna.
  • Interior: Dual-tone black and beige dashboard, new 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, automatic climate control and segment-first electric sunroof.
  • Performance: Powered by a new 1.2-litre Z Series petrol engine, delivering improved fuel efficiency and performance.
  • Safety: Level-2 ADAS, 8 airbags, blind spot monitor, 360-degree camera and automatic climate control.
  • Comfort: Ventilated front seats, rear AC vents, and a spacious cabin with ample legroom and headroom.

Mercedes-Benz E-Class LWB

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Caption – E-Class will be available in two variants – E 200 and E 220d. (Image credit – Mercedes-Benz)

Launch Date October 9
Expected Price Starting at around ₹82 lakh (ex-showroom)
Variants E 200 and E 220d. Petrol and diesel engine options

Key Features

  • Design: 6th-generation model with a longer wheelbase, 13mm taller and 14mm longer than its predecessor.
  • Interior: Advanced MBUX system, superior safety and digital assistance systems and extensive customization options.
  • Performance: Petrol and diesel engine options, with top-of-the-line safety features.
  • Unique for India: First right-hand driven market to receive the 6th-gen E-Class LWB.

FAQs

What are the unique features of the 2024 Kia Carnival?

Answer. The 2024 Kia Carnival sports a modern design with a larger tiger nose grille, revised front bumper, vertically stacked LED headlamps, and connected LED tail lamps. It also offers a 3-row seating layout with captain seats, dual 12.3-inch displays, dual sunroofs, a 2.2-litre diesel engine, Level-2 ADAS, and a 12-speaker Bose audio system.

What is the expected battery range and charging time for the 2024 Kia EV9?

Answer. The 2024 Kia EV9 is expected to have a range of 561 km on a single full charge, with the capability to charge from 10-80% in just 24 minutes. It comes with a 99.8 kWh battery pack and dual electric motors producing 384 hp.

What are the key features of the Nissan Magnite Facelift?

Answer. The Nissan Magnite Facelift will feature a refreshed exterior with a larger grille, redesigned LED DRLs, dual-tone copper and black interior, and new 16-inch alloy wheels. It will continue to offer a 72hp 1.0-litre NA petrol engine and will include advanced safety features like Level-2 ADAS and a 360-degree camera.

What makes the BYD eMAX 7 perfect in the electric MPV segment?

Answer. The BYD eMAX 7 boasts a 71.8 kWh battery offering a range of 530 km, a powerful 204 bhp motor, and advanced technology features like a 12.8-inch rotating infotainment screen and ADAS suite. Its luxurious interior includes leatherette upholstery, a panoramic glass roof, and a redesigned center console.

 What is new in the 2024 Maruti Suzuki Dzire Facelift?

Answer. The 2024 Maruti Suzuki Dzire Facelift will feature refreshed front and rear bumpers, LED headlamps with DRLs, dual-tone alloy wheels, and an electric sunroof. The interior will have a new 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system and advanced safety features like Level-2 ADAS, 8 airbags, and a 360-degree camera.

Read More: Apple Car 2028: Project Titan Electric Vehicle Launch

Read More: Kia Announces Kia CPO: Certified Pre-Owned Car Business in India

Read More: Top 10 Upcoming Cars in 2023

Google Adds Verified Checkmarks to Boost Search Result Credibility

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Google is testing a new feature in its search engine, which one day might revolutionize how users identify sites they can rely on.

The tech giant is launching the Google verified checkmarks next to some sites in Google’s targeted search results, aimed at helping to distinguish between trustworthy sources and possible threats to users.

It is not the same case with the other digital trust signals such as Gmail’s BIMI system that assists the user in determining if the email senders are genuine.

But how precisely does this new feature work, and what does it portend for online safety in the future?

Digging a little deeper into this newly emerged development.

Google public affairs spokesperson Molly Shaheen told The Verge:
We regularly experiment with features that help shoppers identify trustworthy businesses online, and we are currently running a small experiment showing checkmarks next to certain businesses on Google.

Google’s New Verified Checkmarks: A Step Towards Safer Browsing?

The checkmarks are blue and show up next to business links

Reports tell that Google will help to make the online experience safer for users in browsing through sites by providing a simple visual cue: blue checkmarks beside verified sites within the search results.

An online trust signal since its users could be sure that Google verified the authenticity of a given website.

This would be very helpful if a user does not know whether the site offering services, products, or downloads is authentic or not.

Although it may look like a small update, it could make big waves because there are so many phishing sites, malware sites, and scam pages trying to steal your information or download hostile files, and is designed to cut through that noise quickly so the users more clearly understand the safe websites.

So, whenever you see those teeny little verified checkmarks next to a website on the Google Search results page, it means that its algorithms have scanned the site and determined that it’s safe; that is, it’s sending some kind of message back to the user saying that probably that’s what the website is, not liable to clicking on some misleading phishing site or scam.

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Image Credits: Christian Wiediger on Unsplash

This check is important also because it cannot be foolproof at all.

Google has ensured that even though they are sure of their verification process, the presence of a checkmark does not guarantee anything in itself.

So, users still have to be careful with what is there on the Web, particularly where sensitive details are concerned or downloading is involved.

Suppose you are downloading an application free of cost, or for that matter, making an online purchase.

You would be relying on the checkmarks in a greater way to make a better decision.

For example, if you are browsing for a website that has a free download offer, then the checkmarks will indicate whether or not the website is legitimate and thus save you from phishing.

One may reduce the instances of getting people scammed.

It then proposes that phishing attempts and malware infections are reduced because it enables users to identify trusted websites, which, in turn, reduces fraud.

Currently, the checkmarks are tested only on a small scale, so you might not see it yet.

But if the experiment is successful, then perhaps it could become an ordinary feature of Google’s search results, which would bring an added layer of security to internet users around the globe.

It is but one more step in making a better, safer online experience for all of us on the part of Google.

Of course, like with any new tool, it is time to come that will test its effectiveness.

The Google verified checkmarks aren’t going to be the end-all solution to online threats, but it’s certainly a step in the right direction.

Conclusion

Testing blue checkmarks on search results marks another significant step for Google regarding how online safety might be shaped.

Not a perfect system, but it is still an added lever in helping people cut through the dense and misleading spaces of cyberspace.

As this feature evolves, it may play a very important role in the way we identify and trust the websites we regularly access.

Only time will tell how this pans out, but this is a promising leap forward into safer browsing for now.

FAQs

Read More:  Google for India 2024 with ‘AI for Every Indian’ Theme: Google Announces Gemini Live in Regional Languages, GPay Gold Loans, India’s 1st GSEC, and More

OPPO Find X8 Series Will Launch in India After Upcoming China Debut

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Highlights

  • The OPPO Find X8 series is set to launch in China on October 21.
  • An expected India release for the Find X8 and Find X8 Pro in late November or December.
  • The Find X8 Ultra is expected for early next year.
  • A new camera feature for the Find X8 series will allow users to remove reflections from photos.
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OPPO Find X8 and Find X8 Pro will most likely launch in India in late November (Image credit – Smartprix)

OPPO is gearing up for the release of its Find X8 series with the official launch in China scheduled for October 21. This will be just days after the Oppo is scheduled to unveil ColorOS 15 on October 17.

However, we are hearing interesting updates that concern the Indian buyers. A recent Smartprix report now suggests that the entire Find X8 lineup will also be making its way to the Indian market soon.

As per rumours, the OPPO Find X8 and Find X8 Pro are expected to launch in India by late November or December. The Find X8 Ultra might debut next year.

Meanwhile, both the Find X8 and Find X8 Pro have already received BIS certification, which confirms their launch.

Here’s everything we know so far about the upcoming Oppo Fine X8 Series.

OPPO Find X8 Features (Expected)

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OPPO Find X8 front with thin bezels. (Image credit – Smartprix/Weibo)

The Find X8 will feature a 6.6-inch flat AMOLED display with a 120 Hz refresh rate. It is expected to be powered by the Dimensity 9400 processor.

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OPPO Find X8 Live images leaked. (Image credit – Smartprix)

It will most likely boast a powerful triple camera setup on the rear, which will include three 50 MP lenses for the main, ultra-wide, and 3x periscope cameras. The phone will also have a 32 MP front camera for selfies.

Moreover, Find X8 will house a 5,700 mAh battery along with 80W fast charging and 50W magnetic wireless charging support.

The phone is reportedly getting an IP68/IP69 rating, an in-display fingerprint sensor, dual speakers, and an alert slider.

OPPO Find X8 Pro Features (Expected)

The Find X8 Pro will offer a larger 6.8-inch quad-curved display with the same 120 Hz refresh rate. Similar to OPPO Find X8, Find X8 Pro will also feature the Dimensity 9400 chipset.

The camera system features a 50 MP main camera, a 50 MP ultra-wide, a 50 MP 3x zoom lens, and a 50 MP 6x periscope lens. This model will also include a side camera control button.

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OPPO Find X8 Pro Camera Control Button image leaked. (Image credit – Smartprix)

Along with all that, the Find X8 Pro will also have a 5800 mAh battery with the same fast charging capabilities similar to the standard Find X8 model.

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OPPO Find X8 Magnetic Wireless Charging. (Image credit – Smartprix)

It will run on ColorOS 15 based on Android 15.

OPPO Find X8 Ultra (Expected)

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OPPO Find X8 Alleged Live Images leaked. (Image credit – Smartprix)

There are still no significant details out for the OPPO Find X8 Ultra. However, rumours suggest it will come with a larger battery in a smaller body and may feature a dual periscope camera setup.

Certain reports also suggested that the OPPO Find X8 Ultra could also include Samsung’s 200 MP HP9 sensor paired with a zoom lens. However, this seems unlikely because the launch of that particular Samsung sensor isn’t expected until the first quarter of 2025.

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OPPO Find X8 Alleged Live Images leaked. (Image credit – Smartprix)

With the launch of the Find X8 series, OPPO is set to re-establish its presence in the Indian premium smartphone market.

The Find X8 Ultra is anticipated to create a buzz when it eventually launches.

Oppo Find X8 Series New Camera Feature Revealed – Now Remove Reflections from Pictures

Rumours and leaks around the Find X8 series have been never-ending. The recent to joining the series of reveals about the Find X8 series is a camera feature revealed by a company exec.

As per the reports, the Oppo Find X8 series will have a camera feature that will be able to remove reflections from your photos.

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Before and After Images taken from Oppo Find X8 after removing reflections. (Image – Oppo/ GSMArena)

The company also teased with before and after images using the upcoming feature.

A similar feature was introduced by Samsung smartphones in 2022. Huawei too introduced it back in 2020.

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FAQs

Q1. What are the key features of the OPPO Find X8?

Answer. The OPPO Find X8 features a 6.6-inch flat AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, powered by the Dimensity 9400 processor. It boasts a powerful triple 50 MP camera setup and houses a 5,700 mAh battery with 80W fast charging and 50W magnetic wireless charging support.

Q2. What are the expected features of the OPPO Find X8 Pro?

Answer. The OPPO Find X8 Pro offers a larger 6.8-inch quad-curved display with a 120Hz refresh rate, also powered by the Dimensity 9400 chipset. It includes a camera system with a 50 MP main camera, a 50 MP ultra-wide lens, a 50 MP 3x zoom lens, and a 50 MP 6x periscope lens, along with a 5,800 mAh battery and advanced charging capabilities.

Q3. What are the rumoured features of the OPPO Find X8 Ultra?

Answer. The OPPO Find X8 Ultra is rumoured to come with a larger battery in a smaller body and may feature a dual periscope camera setup. It might also include Samsung’s 200 MP HP9 sensor paired with a zoom lens, although this is speculative as the sensor’s launch is expected in early 2025.

Read More: OPPO Find X8 Pro Satellite Edition with Dimensity 9400 Sets New AnTuTu Record with 2.88 Million Points

Read More: Find X8 vs iPhone 16 Pro Comparison Image Released, OPPO Find X8 Pro Satellite Edition Surfaces Online

Read More: OPPO’s Find X8 Series and Reno13 Series Leaked to Feature Massive Battery Upgrades

iPhone 17 Air to Feature Ultra-Thin OLED Display from Emerging Taiwanese Brand

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Apple's rumored iPhone 17 Air may become the thinnest iPhone ever, because of the Novatek's cutting-edge display technology.

Highlights:

  • Apple rumored to introduce an ultra-thin iPhone 17 Air
  • Taiwanese display company Novatek developing cutting-edge TDDI technology
  • iPhone 17 Air expected to replace the Plus model, boasting sleek design and top-tier specs

Apple has always been aggressive on innovation, and the next big difference could be as the ultra thin iPhone 17 Air.

Latest reports by a Taiwanese tech company, Novatek, hint that this future iPhone will certainly make a new difference in terms of style through advanced display technology.

Rumors are already circulating that the iPhone 17 Air will come out to be very slim. And if one takes a closer look at the details, then it will explain how Apple would really make this a reality.

iPhone 17 Air Rumored to Feature Ultra-Thin OLED Display from a Taiwanese Brand

Apple’s rumored iPhone 17 Air may become the thinnest iPhone ever, because of the Novatek’s cutting-edge display technology. Image Credit Apple Insider

The biggest fanfare, which would surround the iPhone 17 Air rumor, is its potential ultra-thin design.

It would be made possible by Novatek’s Touch and Display Driver Integration technology.

In simple terms, TDDI combines the touch sensor and display driver into one unit.

Thus, it means no separate touch layer is necessary.

That sounds a bit technical, but the outcome could be an iPhone thinner by a few millimeters.

That is a tremendous shift in the realm of smartphones.

But why does that matter? A more sleek form would allow Apple to sell a more streamlined and certainly much more modern device in the midst of all the clutter.

If you’re one of those people who advocates for more design-centric technology products, this could be pretty exciting.

Considering Apple has been redefining what a phone should look like and even feel like, this is one of those next things that feels like it’s bound to happen.

Taiwanese display maker Novatek recently announced it would start producing OLED screens, embedding TDDI technology.

Among the companies interested in the new technology, reports indicate that Apple is one of them.

Novatek’s TDDI may help Apple thin out the iPhone without sacrificing display quality or functionality by just streamlining the number of display components.

The technology behind Novatek, however, may not be confined to the realm of iPhones alone.

Apple may be looking forward to testing out this technology on other devices like the iPad or the Apple Watch before making its flagship product lineup “readied” for the same, thereby offering better functionality.

Although the iPhone 17 Air is just a rumor at this point, there are some nice features that could be included in this new model.

The iPhone 17 Air will supposedly include a 6.6-inch screen, probably with the distinctive Dynamic Island of Apple and boasting silky-smooth refreshing capability at 120Hz ProMotion.

The A19 chip, associated with TSMC’s 3nm process, is expected to amaze in terms of speed and energy efficiency.

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Image Credits: 9to5Mac

Another reason that will make selfies shine is the 24MP front camera offered by Apple’s iPhone 17 Air.

After all, more is what users are calling for, because higher quality in their daily photos and videos has already become the need of the day.

The really powerful combination of internal specs and ultra-thin form factor makes the iPhone 17 Air one of the most ambitious projects from Apple’s house so far.

While rumors swirl, nothing is confirmed yet.

The famous source for Apple news hints that Apple might start by putting TDDI tech into its other devices first.

So we may see this tech benefit the much-rumored foldable iPhone or iPad, but the iPhone 17 Air is really generating the most buzz as possibilities reside around how thin this may build.

Conclusion

If the news about iPhone 17 Air is true, then that would be the thinnest and latest iPhone ever in the series.

One of the key technologies it’s using from Novatek’s TDDI, allowing Apple to shave off some crucial millimeters resulting in a much thinner phone with no or minimal cutting down of performance.

Equipped with an A19 chip, high-res display, and next-gen camera, the iPhone 17 Air is sounding like a game-changer if it reaches production.

Although we do not know much more until details become firmer, the prospect alone is enough to generate excitement for an ultra-slim, feature-packed iPhone.

FAQs

What is the main highlight of the iPhone 17 Air?

The iPhone 17 Air’s biggest rumored feature is its ultra-thin design, made possible by Novatek’s TDDI display technology.

What is TDDI, and why is it important?

TDDI stands for Touch and Display Driver Integration, a technology that merges the touch sensor and display driver, allowing devices like smartphones to be slimmer.

When can we expect the iPhone 17 Air?

There’s no official release date, but it’s expected to launch alongside other iPhone 17 models, likely replacing the Plus variant.

Will the iPhone 17 Air be more expensive than other iPhones?

Yes, reports suggest the iPhone 17 Air could be the most expensive model in the series, with a starting price of around $1,299.

What other devices might use Novatek’s TDDI tech?

Apple could test TDDI technology on future iPads, Apple Watches, or even foldable devices before implementing it in iPhones

Can iPhone 17 Air face battery challenges?

iPhone 17 Air may struggle to have the battery life of the iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max, which have an excellent performance.

The Air model is unlikely to have a lesser battery performance than this year’s iPhone 16 base model.

Will iPhone 17 Air feature aluminium design, lacking Titanium?

iPhone 17 Air is said to get a primarily aluminium design, differing from the titanium used in the Pro models.

Few titanium elements may be included, but they will not dominate the construction as they do in the iPhone 17 Pro lineup.

For most users, this change is likely to make less of an effect on everyday use, but the exact effect of the design shift remains to be seen.

Will iPhone 17 lineup feature new A19 chipset?

Apple will equip all models of the iPhone 17, including the standard and Air versions, with the new A19 chip.

Earlier non-Pro models typically featured the previous year’s Pro chip.

The Pro and Pro Max versions will be upgraded to the high-performance A19 Pro.

The change in performance may be less, but experts say that Apple could enhance the Pro chip next year, potentially making the higher-end models even more attractive to consumers in 2025.

Read More: New AirPods 4 and AirPods Max Teardown Reveals Minimal Changes and No Repairability Upgrades

Read More: Rumoured Apple October Event: Here’s Everything You Can Expect

Read More: Apple Set to Launch New iPhone SE with Face ID and Upgraded iPad Air in Early 2025

Now Tag Your Friend to Your Status, WhatsApp Adds Tagging Feature to Status

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Highlights

  • WhatsApp introduces Status tagging, likes and repost features in a new update.
  • Aims at enhancing engagement similar to Instagram Stories.
  • Users can tag up to five accounts in Status updates.
  • Those tagged can reshare the Status and respond with a “like.”
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WhatsApp introduces status likes, private mentions and the ability to reshare a status. (Image credit – WhatsApp Blog)

WhatsApp has been innovative in ensuring maximum user engagement on the app. Today, it is more than an instant messaging service thanks to Meta’s ever-evolving approach. Amongst the host of new features that WhatsApp keeps adding to its platform, the latest is a new tagging feature for WhatsApp status.

The instant messaging app is rolling out new updates to its Status feature that will function similarly to Instagram Stories. These updates will allow users to tag other accounts, introduce likes and offer more ways to engage with friends and family.

“Let someone know you’re thinking of them, or enjoying their status with a single tap of the button,” the company said of Status Likes.

The company announced the latest updates in a blog post titled “Share the Love on WhatsApp Status.”

The new Status tagging feature will allow users to mention up to five accounts in their Status updates. These mentions can be shared without showing the tagged users’ names.

That’s not all, those tagged will be able to repost the Status to their own accounts.

WhatsApp is also adding a “like” option for Status updates, making it easy for friends to respond with a single tap.

This addition brings WhatsApp Status even closer to the experience users are familiar with on Instagram.

Explaining the new updates in a blog post, the company mentioned, “WhatsApp Status is the best way to stay connected with friends and family, and now we’re making it even better. With status likes, private mentions, and the ability to reshare a status you’re mentioned in, we’re making it easier to reach the people who matter most.”

Apart from these updates, WhatsApp recently also introduced improvements to the Channels feature. After the update, users will be able to discover new Channels by category. Channels will be sorted into groups such as People, Sports, and News.

WhatsApp has also added new video call backgrounds and filters.

These new WhatsApp Status features are now being rolled out in phases to users worldwide.

WhatsApp said, “Make sure those closest to you see your status, and let them reshare it easily with their audience, by privately mentioning them,” noted WhatsAp in a blog post.
WhatsApp said, “We’ll be bringing more features to Status and the Updates tab over the next few months to make it easier to stay closest to those who matter most.”

FAQs

Q1. What new features are being added to WhatsApp Status?

Answer. WhatsApp Status now allows tagging up to five accounts, introducing likes, and making it easier to reshare mentioned Statuses.

Q2. Can I hide the names of tagged users in my Status updates?

Answer. Yes, you can tag users without showing their names, and those tagged can repost the Status to their own accounts.

Q2. What other improvements has WhatsApp recently introduced?

Answer. WhatsApp has updated its Channels feature for easier discovery, added new video call backgrounds and filters, and is gradually rolling out these features globally.

Read More: WhatsApp Testing New In-Camera Effects for Photos and Videos

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

Spotify Launches Offline Backup for Premium Users

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Highlights

  • Spotify introduced the Offline Backup feature.
  • The new feature will create automatic offline playlists for Premium users when the internet is interrupted.
  • It will use cached songs stored on the device.
  • The feature will be available globally for Premium users on Android and iOS.
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Spotify Premium users can enjoy the Offline Backup feature that automatically creates a playlist when a user has no internet. (Image credit – Spotify)

Spotify is getting more and more intuitive and will now create a playlist for you automatically when your internet connection is interrupted. Here’s what you need to know.

Spotify is rolling out a new feature called Offline Backup. The feature will make sure Spotify listeners always have music to listen to even when they are without an internet connection. It automatically creates a playlist of recently streamed and queued tracks, making them available offline without the need for manual downloads.

However, there is a catch.

Office Backup feature will only be available for Premium users.

The newly rolled-out feature works by using cached songs already stored on the device.

Users can filter and sort tracks by artist, mood, and genre and the playlist evolves as they listen. The intuitiveness of the feature ensures fresh content is always available.

According to the GSMArena report, the feature uses no extra data or storage since it leverages cached songs.

The new tool is available to Premium users globally on both Android and iOS.

It will appear automatically in the Home feed when offline. To use it, users need offline listening enabled and must have recently listened to at least five songs.

Moreover, Spotify premium users can also add the Offline Backup playlist to their Library for easy access anytime.

The feature aims to solve one of the most common user problems where listeners often forget to download the songs they are listening to. This creates an issue when users go offline.

The new feature will ensure Spotify Premium users always have music at their fingertips even when they are in no-signal zones or have their internet connection disrupted.

Spotify CEO Daniel Ek mentioned last year that the company was testing a feature called “Offline Mix.”

It remains unclear if Spotify ever rolled out this feature to all users. The Offline Backup feature could potentially be a repetition of the Offline Mix feature.

In contrast, YouTube Music has an “Offline mixtape” feature that allows users to auto-download liked music.

This Google-owned service can download up to 500 songs in different playlists if users enable the “Smart download” functionality.

FAQs

What is Spotify’s new Offline Backup feature?

The Offline Backup feature automatically creates a playlist of recently streamed and queued tracks, making them available offline without manual downloads.

Who can use the Offline Backup feature on Spotify?

The Offline Backup feature is available exclusively for Spotify Premium users on both Android and iOS devices.

How does the Offline Backup feature work?

It uses cached songs already stored on the device, requires offline listening enabled, and at least five recently listened songs. The playlist evolves with user listening habits.

How to use Offline Backup of Spotify ?

Offline Backup will appear automatically in the Home feed anytime you’re offline.
Make sure you’ve listened to more than five songs recently and have offline listening enabled. Find this under Settings and then Data Saving and Offline or Storage. Look for the Offline Listening toggle.

You can add Offline Backup to Your Library for easy access at any time.

Can’t find Offline Backup? Make sure your Spotify app is updated to the latest version.
Our goal is to create a seamless listening experience for users, no matter where they are or how they choose to listen.

How to turn off Offline Backup feature ?

To turn the Offline Backup feature on or off, head to Settings > Data Saving and Offline or Storage and then toggle Offline Listening.

If the Spotify app is using too much data or you need to free up space on your phone, you can also clear stored downloads and other cached data from those areas as well.

When asked how much data offline backups will consume, Spotify said it is “simply giving you access to music without using any extra data or storage.”

Read More: Spotify Introduces AI Playlist Generation for Premium Users in the US

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

Read More: Spotify Brings Back Lyrics for Free Users with New Monthly Limit

YouTube Rolls Out Exciting New Updates, Announces 3-Minute YouTube Shorts, Creative Tools and More

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Highlight

  • YouTube Shorts will support videos up to 3 minutes long starting October 15.
  • New creative tools include a “templates” feature for remixing trending Shorts.
  • It also integrates Google DeepMind’s Veo technology.
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YouTube announced a series of features in its official blog titled “Tall updates coming to Shorts.” (Image credit –  YouTube Official Blog)

YouTube recently announced a series of new exciting updates for YouTube Shorts creators and viewers. As explained via a blog post, the new updates are designed to make creating and connecting on the platform more fun and immersive.

The new updates include longer Shorts, new creative tools, and improved ways to engage with YouTube content. Here’s everything you need to know.

Longer YouTube Shorts, More Flexibility

YouTube creators will soon be able to upload Shorts up to 3 minutes long. The new update will be available starting October 15.

This feature offers creators more flexibility to tell their stories. The change applies to videos in square or vertical formats and will not impact previously uploaded Shorts.

YouTube also plans to improve recommendations for longer Shorts in the coming months. It will make the entire experience of YouTube shorts smoother for creators and viewers alike.

New Creative Tools

YouTube is introducing a new “templates” feature. It will allow creators to easily recreate trending Shorts by tapping “Remix” and selecting “Use this template.”

This feature enables users to add their own twist to popular content. You can even sync clips to trending sounds and jump into the latest trends effortlessly.

Soon, creators will also be able to remix content from YouTube’s vast library. This will include music videos and other clips, right from the Shorts camera.

Moreover, YouTube plans to integrate Google DeepMind’s Veo technology to help creators generate extraordinary video backgrounds. It can also be used for standalone clips to make Shorts even more captivating.

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New YouTube engagement updates include a new Shorts trends page, comment previews and “Show fewer Shorts.” (Image credit – YouTube Blog page)

Engagement and Customisation

YouTube Shorts are about to get a longer playing time.

YouTube is also making it easier for fans to stay on top of trends.

As per the recent announcement, a new Shorts trends page will soon be available on mobile. Users would be able to use this page to explore what’s popular in their country and get inspired.

Viewers will also be able to see a preview of comments directly from the Shorts feed. This will offer a quick glimpse into conversations without needing to dive into the comments section.

Moreover, YouTube is adding an option to “Show fewer Shorts” for users who want more control over their feeds. Users can find this feature by clicking the three-dot menu in the Shorts grid on their Home feed. This will temporarily reduce the number of Shorts displayed.

All updates announced by YouTube today are aimed to make YouTube Shorts more engaging, creative, and personalised.

FAQs

Q1. What is the new maximum length for YouTube Shorts?

Answer. YouTube creators will be able to upload Shorts up to 3 minutes long, offering more flexibility in content creation starting October 15.

Q2. What new creative tools are being introduced for YouTube Shorts?

Answer. YouTube is adding a “templates” feature for easily remixing trending Shorts, and integrating Google DeepMind’s Veo technology for enhanced video backgrounds.

Q3. How is YouTube improving engagement and customization for Shorts?

Answer. YouTube will introduce a Shorts trends page, allow comment previews directly from the Shorts feed, and add an option to “Show fewer Shorts” for more personalized user control.

Q4. What Will Happen To Existing Shorts?

Answer. Existing Shorts will remain unaffected, and YouTube is working to fine-tune its recommendation algorithms to better accommodate the longer videos.
This update is part of a larger effort by YouTube to make Shorts a more enhanced platform for creators and viewers alike.

Q5. Will shorts on YouTube become more immersive now ?

Answer. Starting on October 15, you can upload Shorts up to 3 minutes long.
This was a top requested feature by creators, so gives more flexibility to tell the users story. This change applies to videos that are square or taller in aspect ratio, and won’t affect any videos you uploaded before October 15.

Read More: YouTube Rolls Out Conversational AI to Answer Questions About Videos, Only for Premium Subscribers on Android

Read More: YouTube Introduces Communities for Creators, Special Smart TV Feature, Custom Thumbnails, and More

Google Pixel 9 Pro XL Raises Privacy Concerns Over Data Sharing and Remote Access, Google expands ‘Enhanced Fraud Protection’ to India

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Highlights

  • New research report raising privacy concerns for Pixel 9 Pro XL.
  • Research reveals that the Pixel 9 Pro XL transmits private user data to Google every 15 minutes.
  • It reportedly has remote control capabilities.
  • It issues frequent data sharing without explicit consent.
  • Google is expanding its Play Protect service in India to block sideloading of risky Android apps.
  • The pilot program will start next month.

Google’s latest flagship phone the Pixel 9 Pro XL has sparked new concerns about user privacy. A recent research reveals troubling issues related to constant data sharing and remote control capabilities. Here’s what we know so far.

According to Cybernews researchers, the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL “frequently transmits private user data to the tech giant before any app is installed.”

Cybernews researchers found that the Pixel 9 Pro XL sends private data to Google every 15 minutes.

This suggests that Pixel 9 Pro XL users may not have full control over their own devices. Not only privacy, if the reports coming out of the research hold any truth, It also raises questions on ownership.

Researchers used a “man-in-the-middle” approach to intercept the traffic between a new Pixel 9 Pro XL and Google’s servers.

Here are some key findings highlighted in the report.

Frequent Data Transmission Concerns

The research uncovered that the Pixel 9 Pro XL transmits private user data to Google every 15 minutes. This was recorded even before any apps were installed.

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The phone requests a ‘check-in’ endpoint around every 40 minutes as per the report. (Image credit – Cybernews)

“Every 15 minutes, Google Pixel 9 Pro XL sends a data packet to Google. The device shares location, email address, phone number, network status, and other telemetry. Even more concerning, the phone periodically attempts to download and run new code, potentially opening up security risks,” said Aras Nazarovas, a security researcher at Cybernews.

The private data at risk includes sensitive details like the user’s location, email address, and phone number. The phone uses nearby Wi-Fi networks to estimate the user’s location even when the GPS is turned off.

“The Pixel 9 Pro XL repeatedly uses PII for authentication, configuration, and logging. This practice doesn’t align with the industry’s best anonymization practices and appears excessive. The smartphone transmits the user’s email address, location, and phone number, even when utilizing a variety of other identifiers for the user and the device,” Nazarovas said.

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Research also highlights “Voice Search, was connecting to its servers sporadically.” (Image credit – Cybernews)

As per the researchers, some of this data is sent to endpoints responsible for device management, policy enforcement, and biometric processing. However, all this happens without explicit user consent.

Remote Control Features

Researchers noticed that even when the phone is locked, the calculator app is accessible through the notification tray widgets.

Another alarming claim of the report is that the Pixel 9 Pro XL has the ability to connect to Google servers to request updates and even download and run new code without user knowledge.

If true, this directly suggests that Google can remotely control certain aspects of the phone. This opens potential several security risks. However, the report highlights that no harmful actions were observed during the study.

Privacy Vulnerabilities in Apps

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Researchers observed that when the calculator app is accessible through the notification tray widgets even when the phone is locked. (Image credit – Cybernews)

Researchers also found a privacy issue with the calculator app. As per reports, it can be accessed from the notifications even when the phone is locked.

This leaves the data such as calculation history exposed. It can have highly sensitive information and raises concerns about unauthorized access to personal information.

“We were unable to access any user data without first unlocking the device and the calculator was a single exception. It is important to note the widget in the notifications tray is not enabled by default – the user would have to manually add it to the list of shortcuts,” Nazarovas said.

 These findings raise serious questions about user control and privacy.

It is important to note that the report highlights that no data was sent to third parties and no malicious activities were detected during the study. However, the sheer volume of information being shared regularly with Google has sparked concerns.

One of the main questions we have now is whether users truly “own” their devices or if control lies with the tech giant.

Google Expands Enhanced Fraud Protection in India, Blocks Risky App Sideloading

Adding to the privacy concerns, the Pixel 9 Pro XL continuously checks for updates and downloads from Google’s staging environment.

In other news, Google is working to combat fraud and scams in India by expanding its Play Protect service. This initiative was first introduced in Singapore earlier this year.

The company will launch a pilot program next month. The program will aim at blocking the sideloading of certain risky Android apps.

It will target apps that seek sensitive permissions, such as accessing incoming one-time passwords (OTPs) or monitoring user activity on the device.

Google explains the feature, “This enhanced fraud protection will analyze and automatically block the installation of apps that may use sensitive permissions frequently abused for financial fraud. It will inspect the permissions the app declared in real-time and specifically look for permission requests that are frequently abused by fraudsters to intercept one-time passwords via SMS or notifications, as well as spy on-screen content (they are RECEIVE_SMS, READ_SMS, BIND_Notifications, and Accessibility).”

The initiative is part of Google’s broader efforts to curb fraudulent app installations globally.

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Google has “nearly 900,000 high-risk installations in Singapore alone.” (Image Credit – 9to5Google)

The feature is already operational in countries like Singapore, Brazil, and Thailand.

In Singapore, Google claims it has blocked nearly 900,000 high-risk app installations. The expansion to India aims to build on this success and further protect Android users from potential scams.

FAQs

Q1. What is the new privacy concern with Google’s Pixel 9 Pro XL?

Answer. The Pixel 9 Pro XL transmits private user data to Google every 15 minutes, even before any apps are installed, raising concerns about constant data sharing and remote control capabilities.

Q2. What measures is Google taking to combat fraud and scams in India?

Answer. Google is expanding its Play Protect service to block sideloading of risky Android apps that seek sensitive permissions, with a pilot program rolling out in India next month.

Q3. What is the impact of Google’s Play Protect expansion?

Answer. The Play Protect expansion aims to prevent the installation of high-risk apps by blocking those sourced from risky internet-sideloading sources, following successful implementations in Singapore, Brazil, and Thailand

Read More: Google Pixel 9 Pro XL May Launch With Four Colors – Here’s What They Look Like

Read More: Google Pixel 9 Pro XL Leak Reveals Major Upgrades to Use Samsung Modem

FIR Filed Against School After 45 Children Hospitalised from Suspected Mid-Day Meal Food Poisoning in Thane

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Highlights

  • 45 students in Maharashtra’s Thane city fell ill due to food poisoning from a mid-day meal
  • FIR registered against the school management and food supplier.
  • FDA officials collected food samples for testing.
  • Police are investigating but no arrests have been made yet.
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Maharashtra School food poisoning case, FIR against management. (Image credit – Livemint)

Police have registered an FIR against the management of a private school near Maharashtra’s Thane city after 45 students fell ill due to suspected food poisoning from a mid-day meal.

The incident came to light when 38 students between the ages of 8 and 11 years were rushed to a civic hospital in Kalwa on Tuesday. The students experienced symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, headaches, and stomach pain after having a mid-day meal at their school.

Later, seven more children were admitted with similar health issues. The total number of affected students increased to 45.

One of the student’s parents complained to the local police station immediately

The Kalwa police filed an FIR against the school management and the food supplier under section 125 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (for endangering personal safety or life due to negligence) and FDA regulations.

As per local sources, police have not made any arrests as of now and are currently investigating the matter keeping all options open.

The hospital’s medical in-charge Dr. Aniruddha Malgaonkar confirmed that the children are currently being monitored.

An official from Thane Municipal Corporation (TMC) also stated that 37 of the students were in stable condition and would be discharged after 24 hours. However, eight children with severe symptoms of fever and vomiting will remain under observation for an additional 12 hours.

TMC Additional Commissioner Sandeep Malvi confirmed that the children had eaten a mid-day meal at the private school. As per reports, the meal included rice and moth bean (matki) curry.

FDA officials have collected samples of the food for testing.

The situation unfolded when a few students initially reported feeling unwell and the number of students reporting symptoms started increasing. Ambulances were called by the school and the affected students were taken to the hospital.

Many parents were also present at the hospital as per local sources.

Dr. Aniruddha Malgaonkar, the hospital’s medical in-charge, said the children were being closely monitored. Thirty-seven were in stable condition and expected to be discharged after 24 hours of observation at 5 pm, according to a Thane Municipal Corporation (TMC) official. However, eight children, showing symptoms of fever and vomiting, would remain under observation for an additional 12 hours.

“…The primary information was that 24 students were having stomach pain. We sent the ambulance immediately. A total of 38 students have been admitted to the hospital…There is a suspicion of food poisoning in the meal of the school…All the students are stable. We will monitor them for 24 hours…” Kalwa Hospital Dean, Anirudh Malgaonkar said.

TMC Additional Commissioner Sandeep Malvi confirmed the children had consumed a mid-day meal at the private school. A medical official stated that the students were served rice and moth bean (matki) curry. FDA officials have collected food samples for testing.

“Ambulances were summoned by the school administration and the students were rushed to the hospital,” they added. The parents of the children were also present at the hospital.

FAQs

Q1. What incident led to the FIR against a private school in Thane?

Answer. An FIR was filed against the management of a private school near Thane after 45 students fell ill due to suspected food poisoning from a mid-day meal.

Q2. What symptoms did the Thane students experience?

Answer. The students experienced dizziness, nausea, headaches, and stomach pain after consuming the mid-day meal at school.

Q3. How many students were initially hospitalized in Thane due to food poisoning?

Answer. Initially, 38 students were hospitalized, and later, an additional 7 students were admitted, bringing the total to 45.

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