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TECNO Launches #ToneProud Campaign For Inclusive Skin Tone Representation in Imaging Technology

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Highlights

  • TECNO’s #ToneProud campaign aims to address skin tone bias in AI imaging.
  • It introduces a 268-skin-tone database for fair representation.
  • Global celebrities including Anggun, Fatima Al-Banawi, Johnny Drille and Ewa Kępys support the campaign.
Tecno launches #ToneProud campaign to promote its “Universal Tone” technology. (Image credit – Tecno)

TECNO has announced its #ToneProud campaign to address skin tone bias in AI-driven imaging and celebrate skin diversity.

In a press note, the company noted its “belief that imaging technologies should be free from bias, with every skin tone deserving fair representation as a vital aspect of human diversity.”

This initiative follows a 2018 MIT and Stanford University study that highlighted skin-type bias in commercial AI systems.

TECNO’s #ToneProud Campaign Aspires to End Skin Tone Bias in Imaging Technology to Represent Full Human Diversity

It is particularly relevant now as AI shapes how we capture and process images.

TECNO’s campaign advocates for fair representation in imaging technology and introduces a unique 268-skin-tone database that scientifically categorises skin tones.

This database refines TECNO’s Universal Tone technology helping correct colour distortions. The company hopes the #ToneProud campaign will inspire consumers worldwide to embrace skin tone diversity and speak out against bias in digital imaging.

Global Celebrities Join the Campaign

Tecno Takes a Stand Against Skin Tone Bias

Several global celebrities have joined the #ToneProud campaign including singer-songwriter Anggun, filmmaker Fatima Al-Banawi, musician Johnny Drille and actress Ewa Kępys.

In a campaign video released on YouTube, these celebrities share their stories of skin tone misrepresentation and call for technology that respects skin diversity.

Anggun noted, “I think, sometimes, you just need to be reminded that we’re all individual and we’re all beautiful in our own way.”

Anggun added, “If the technology helps us, which is the approach of TECNO phones, it makes it easier to break barriers and change people’s perception, change mentality.”

Tecno’s Universal Tone Technology’s 268 Skin Tone Patches

The #ToneProud campaign is TECNO’s Universal Tone technology, which uses 268 distinct skin tone patches developed with colour science experts.

This large database allows TECNO’s imaging algorithms to accurately detect and display a vast range of skin tones. This eventually sets an industry standard for unbiased skin tone imaging.

Singer Johnny Drille highlighted the significance of this approach and said, “Knowing that there are 268 skin tone patches alone is a testament to individuality. In a world that tries to box us into narrow categories, it’s a small but profound way of saying you’re unique. So be proud and tell your story,”

Filmmaker Fatima Al-Banawi, in the campaign video, can be seen saying, “What TECNO is doing with its Universal Tone feature is significantly crucial at this stage because this technology will set the foundations for an inclusive society.”

Call for Global Inclusion in Imaging

In the press note, TECNO also invites users worldwide to discover their unique skin tone codes at www.tecno-mobile.com/universaltone.

This website showcases the diversity within TECNO’s skin tone patches encouraging users to feel proud of their skin tones.

TECNO’s General Manager Jack Guo said, “Through the #ToneProud campaign, we stand with consumers who are misrepresented to make a case for inclusivity, while heavily investing in R&D to address this issue.”

Users can join the campaign by sharing portraits of their skin tone code on Instagram.Tecno hashtags #ToneProud, #UniversalTone and #TECNO can be used while posting the images.

FAQs

Q1. What is the #ToneProud campaign by TECNO?

Answer. TECNO’s #ToneProud campaign aims to address skin tone bias in AI-driven imaging and celebrate skin diversity.

Q2. What did TECNO introduce to support fair representation in imaging technology?

Answer. TECNO introduced a unique 268-skin-tone database that scientifically categorises skin tones, refining its Universal Tone technology to help correct colour distortions.

Q3. Who are some of the global celebrities supporting the #ToneProud campaign?

Answer. Several global celebrities, including singer-songwriter Anggun, filmmaker Fatima Al-Banawi, musician Johnny Drille, and actress Ewa Kępys, have joined the #ToneProud campaign.

Read More: Tecno Pop 9 5G Launched in India with MediaTek Dimensity 6300 SoC – Price, Specifications, Features

Read More: Tecno Spark Go 1s Spotted Online

Read More: YouTube for Android TV Adds Prominent Subscribe Button

Also Read: TECNO Revolutionizes Smartphone Photography brings the Industry-First sensor-shift technology with RGBW Pro sensor via CAMON 20 series

iPhone 14 Pro Max Explodes in China Leaving Chinese Woman with Severe Burns

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Highlights

  • An iPhone 14 Pro Max exploded in China while charging.
  • The explosion caused severe burns to a Chinese woman.
  • Initial investigations suggest a battery malfunction.
  • Apple customer care will investigate the cause.

Shocking reports of an iPhone 14 Pro Max explosion are coming from China. A Chinese woman reportedly sustained severe burns when her iPhone 14 Pro Max exploded next to her while she was asleep. Here’s what multiple media reports have claimed.

According to Shanxi Radio and Television’s Hui Bang Mang program, the explosion happened around 6:30 AM while the woman’s phone was charging nearby.

She apparently turned over in her sleep and her hand accidentally touched the flames, which caused painful burns. The burn woke her up to find her room filled with smoke and fire.

Some reports claimed to have seen footage of the aftermath showing extensive damage including scorched bedding, smoke-blackened walls and a severely charred iPhone.

While we haven’t been able to verify the video, pictures of the charred iPhone have been circulating online.

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The room where iPhone 14 Pro Max Explodes in China. (Image credit – MyDrivers)
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The iPhone 14 Pro Max That Exploded in China. (Image credit – MyDrivers)

Initial investigations suggest a battery malfunction could be the reason behind the explosion.

The woman reportedly purchased her iPhone 14 Pro Max in 2022, which means the device is currently out of warranty period.

However, she is still hoping for an explanation and compensation for the injuries she suffered and the damage to her rented apartment.

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The bill of the iPhone 14 Pro Max that exploded in China shows the device is out of warranty. (Image credit – MyDrivers)

Apple Responds to the Reports of Explosion

Apple’s Customer Service Team has expressed concern and they would collect the device to analyse the cause of the explosion regardless of warranty.

Apple emphasised its commitment to safety saying it would thoroughly investigate any potential hazards with its products.

It is unclear if the phone had an original Apple battery or if it had repairs work done in the past that might have affected its condition.

This incident is again a reminder that charging electronic devices overnight near flammable materials like bedding comes with risks.

Experts have always advised against charging phones near such materials and recommend using certified chargers over third-party accessories to reduce risks.

FAQs

Q1. What caused the iPhone 14 Pro Max to explode in China?

Answer. Initial investigations suggest a battery malfunction could be the reason behind the explosion.

Q2. What was the condition of the woman who experienced the iPhone explosion in China?

Answer. A Chinese woman reportedly sustained severe burns when her iPhone 14 Pro Max exploded next to her while she was asleep.

Q3. How is Apple responding to the reports of the iPhone explosion?

Answer. Apple Customer Service Team expressed concern and noted they would need to collect the device to analyze the cause of the explosion, emphasizing their commitment to safety.

Also Read: iPhone 14 Pro Faster Than Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra By 20% in Performance Benchmark Tests: Detailed Comparison Apple Vs Samsung

Also Read: iPhone 15 Pro Max Leads in China’s Smartphone Market, Surpassing Huawei Mate 60 Pro

Threads Hit 275 Million Active Monthly Users, Mosseri Confirms

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Highlights

  • Meta’s social platform Threads now has 275 million monthly active users.
  • Threads has shown significant growth since its launch in July 2023.
  • Threads gain approximately one million new users each day.
  • Not expected to be a significant revenue driver until after 2025.
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Meta’s Threads now has 275 million monthly active users. (Photo by Dave Adamson on Unsplash)

Meta recently announced that its social platform Threads now boasts 275 million monthly active users (MAUs). 

The Head of Threads and Instagram, Adam Mosseri expressed his gratitude and wrote on Threads, “Yesterday we crossed 275M monthly active users on @Threads. A big thank you to everyone who’s helped us get this far. There’s a lot more to do and plenty of things to fix, but there’s something exciting about this place.”

 

Post by @mosseri
View on Threads

 

Since launching in July 2023, Threads has seen swift growth benefiting from users leaving X after Elon Musk’s acquisition.

The platform reached 150 million MAUs in April and 200 million in August, adding another 75 million users in just three months.

Previously, Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg revealed during a Q3 2024 earnings call that Threads gains around a million new users each day.

During the earnings call, CFO Susan Li said, “Specifically, as it pertains to monetization, we don’t expect Threads to be a meaningful driver of 2025 revenue at this time. [….] We’ve been just pleased with the growth trajectory and again, are really focused on introducing features that the community finds valuable.”

However, Threads still faces ongoing challenges with content moderation, which have frustrated some users.

While X still has more users, Threads is closing in. X, according to Sensor Tower, currently has about 318 million monthly users, a drop of 24% since Musk’s acquisition in October 2022.

Analysts from Bernstein view Threads’ trajectory as promising, saying, “Even though Meta does not expect Threads to be a meaningful driver of 2025 revenue, we expect ads to show up and scale on Threads next year.”

Meanwhile, across Meta’s different platforms including Facebook and Instagram, daily active users grew by 5% year-over-year totalling 3.29 billion, which is slightly below the expected 3.31 billion.

FAQs

Q1. How many monthly active users do Threads have as of now?

Answer. Threads has 275 million monthly active users.

Q2. What challenges does Threads face despite its growth?

Answer. Threads face ongoing challenges with content moderation, which have frustrated some users.

Q3. Is Threads expected to be a significant revenue driver for Meta?

Answer. No, as per industry experts, Meta does not expect Threads to be a meaningful driver of 2025 revenue, despite its growth trajectory.

Also Read : Threads Adding Location Tagging Feature Not Available to All Users Yet

Also Read : Meta Tests 24-Hour Disappearing Posts on Threads

Also Read : Meta Introduces Cross-Post from Instagram and Facebook to Threads

X Controversial Block Feature Update To Allow Blocked Accounts to View Your Public Posts

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Highlights

  • X’s new block feature update allows blocked accounts to view public posts.
  • Blocked accounts can’t engage with posts, follow, send messages or tag photos.
  • Blocked accounts but can view followers and following lists.
  • X’s claim of increased transparency as users worry about harassment and stalking.
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X rolling out a new block feature update. (Screenshot – X)

X has begun rolling out the update to its block feature, which sparked a controversy when it was first announced last month.

The new block feature update will now permit blocked accounts to still view the public posts of the person who blocked them.

This update has sparked criticism from users concerned about their safety and privacy. It was first announced at X’s Engineering handle @XEng on 16 October.

Many users argued after the announcement that they don’t want blocked accounts to have access to their posts.

It is important to note that even after the update, blocked accounts will no longer be able to follow, engage with posts or send direct messages to the person who blocked them.

However, they can now see the followers and following lists of those who have blocked them.

The X support page previously mentioned that blocked users couldn’t see these lists but this reference has since been removed.

The social network claims this update increases transparency saying the block feature could sometimes be used to hide or share private or harmful information.

However, users have questioned this reasoning, pointing out that X already offers an option to make accounts private, which better supports controlling who sees posts.

This approach to blocking differs from the way it’s traditionally implemented on social media and when X initially announced the planned revamp, users expressed concerns that it might lead to increased harassment and stalking.

Software engineer and tech diversity advocate Tracy Chou, who developed an app to help users block accounts automatically noted that while determined users can create new accounts to bypass blocks, adding friction is still important.

“Making it easy for the creeper to creep is not a good thing,” she posted on X last month.

What You Need to Know About Using Block Feature on X?

Blocked accounts can see your posts if they are public, but they cannot –

  • Engage with your posts such as Like, Reply, Repost, etc
  • Follow you
  • Send Direct Messages to you
  • Add your X account to their lists
  • Tag you in a photo

For protected accounts, blocked users cannot view posts, as these are only visible to followers.

Other important points to know about the block feature –

  • When you block an account, they are automatically unfollowed from you and you are unfollowed from them.
  • If you later unblock them, you’ll need to follow them again manually.
  • Blocked accounts are not notified of the block but if they visit your profile, they’ll see they’ve been blocked.
  • Block is different from muting, which is invisible to the muted account.
  • You won’t receive notifications from blocked accounts or from accounts you don’t follow that mention you in conversations started by blocked accounts.
  • You will see mentions from accounts you follow in those conversations.
  • To view all mentions, users can search for your username.

FAQs

Q1. What is the main update to X’s block feature?

Answer. The new block feature update allows blocked accounts to view the public posts of the person who blocked them.

Q2. Can blocked accounts engage with your posts on X?

Answer. No, blocked accounts cannot engage with posts such as Like, Reply, Repost, etc., follow you, send Direct Messages to you, add your X account to their lists, or tag you in a photo.

Q3. What can blocked accounts see on profiles after the update?

Answer. Blocked accounts can see the followers and following lists of those who have blocked them.

Q4. What is the users’ main concern regarding the block feature update on X?

Answer. Users are concerned about their safety and privacy, fearing that the update might lead to increased harassment and stalking.

Also Read : X to Speed Up Community Notes with Lightning Notes, Raises API Prices

Also Read : Elon Musk’s X Introduces New User Fee

Realme GT 7 Pro Announced in China, Flagship Features 6.78” OLED Display, 8 Elite SoC, 6500mAh battery and Advanced Camera

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Highlights

  • Realme GT 7 Pro launched in China at a starting price of 3,699 yuan (approx USD 521 / INR 43,840).
  • Key features include a 6.78″ OLED display, Snapdragon 8 Elite SoC, 6500mAh battery and advanced camera setup.
  • It is currently available for pre-orders.
  • India launch is expected on November 26.
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Flagship smartphone Realme GT 7 Pro launched in China. (Image credit – Realme)

Realme has just unveiled its new flagship smartphone the Realme GT 7 Pro at an event in China. While an India launch is expected later this month, it is available for pre-order in China as of now. Here’s everything you need to know about this newly unveiled flagship.

Let’s start with pricing.

Realme GT 7 Pro – Pricing and Availability

The Realme GT 7 Pro is now available for pre-order in China with sales beginning on November 11.

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Realme GT 7 Pro comes in three distinct colour choices. (Image credit – Realme)

The phone comes in three striking colour choices, which include Mars Orange, Star Trail Titanium and White.

Pricing details are as follows:

Variant Price in Yuan Price in USD & INR
12GB + 256GB 3,699 yuan approx USD 521 / INR 43,840
16GB + 256GB 3,899 yuan approx USD 549 / INR 46,210
12GB + 512GB 3,999 yuan approx USD 563 / INR 47,390
16GB + 512GB 4,299 yuan approx USD 605 / INR 50,950
16GB + 1TB 4,799 yuan approx USD 679 / INR 55,850

Interested buyers in China can get an initial discount of 100 yuan (only applies to the entry-level model).

As per recent reports, the Realme GT 7 Pro will launch in India on November 26.

Realme Realme GT 7 Pro – Key Features

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Realme GT 7 Pro key features unveiled during the launch event in China. (Image credit – Realme)

The Realme GT 7 Pro boasts a 6.78-inch Samsung Display-supplied 1.5K 8T LTPO Eco² OLED Plus screen with a maximum global brightness of 2000 nits and peak brightness up to an impressive 6000 nits.

The display also supports HDR 10+ and Dolby Vision.

The Realme GT7 Pro debuts Samsung‘s Eco² OLED Plus screen.

The flagship phone is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite SoC with configurations offering up to 16GB of LPDDR5X RAM and up to 1TB of UFS 4.0 storage.

It includes a robust 11480mm² dual VC cooling system and Realme’s proprietary Sky communication system 2.0 with high- and low-frequency dual-sided antennas for a smoother gaming experience.

The GT7 Pro with its 50MP ultra-light 3x periscope telephoto lens, featuring AI super-resolution and up to 120x zoom, along with a 50MP main camera and an 8MP ultra-wide lens.

The camera setup includes a 50MP main camera, an 8MP ultra-wide lens and a 50MP Sony IMX882 3x periscope telephoto camera, which features Realme’s AI Zoom Ultra Clarity for enhanced detail in telephoto shots.

The device runs Realme UI 6.0 based on Android 15 and promises three major Android updates along with four years of security patches. It is dust and water-resistant with IP68 and IP69 ratings.

The Realme GT7 Pro features a 6500mAh “Titan Battery”, developed in collaboration with CATL.

The GT 7 Pro also comes with a substantial 6500mAh battery that uses silicon-carbon electrode technology, which Realme claims has the highest silicon content in the industry at 10%.

It supports 120W fast charging, delivering a 50% charge in just 14 minutes and is designed to retain battery health over four years thanks to Realme’s exclusive longevity algorithm.

Realme GT 7 Pro – Specifications

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Realme GT 7 Pro is available in a striking Mars Orange colour option. (Image credit – Realme)
  • Display: 78-inch LTPO OLED Plus, 2780×1264 resolution, 1-120Hz refresh rate, 2600Hz touch sampling, Dolby Vision, DCI-P3 color gamut
  • Processor: Snapdragon 8 Elite 3nm SoC with Adreno 830 GPU
  • Memory & Storage: Options for 12GB/16GB RAM and 256GB/512GB/1TB UFS 4.0 storage
  • Camera: 50MP main camera (Sony IMX906 sensor), 8MP ultra-wide, 50MP 3x periscope telephoto (IMX882 sensor with 120x hybrid zoom)
  • Front Camera: 16MP with Sony sensor
  • Battery: 6500mAh with 120W fast charging
  • Other Features: In-display ultrasonic fingerprint sensor, IP68/IP69 water and dust resistance, Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, 5G support
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FAQs

Q1. When will the Realme GT 7 Pro be available in India?

Answer. The Realme GT 7 Pro is expected to launch in India on November 26.

Q2. What are the colour options for the Realme GT 7 Pro?

Answer. Realme GT 7 Pro phone comes in three striking colours including Mars Orange, Star Trail Titanium and White.

Q3. What is the battery capacity of the Realme GT 7 Pro?

Answer. The Realme GT 7 Pro comes with a substantial 6500mAh battery.

Q4. What camera features does the Realme GT 7 Pro offer?

Answer. The camera setup includes a 50MP main camera, an 8MP ultra-wide lens, and a 50MP Sony IMX882 3x periscope telephoto camera.

Q5. What display features does the Realme GT 7 Pro have?

Answer. The Realme GT 7 Pro boasts a 6.78-inch Samsung Display-supplied 1.5K 8T LTPO Eco² OLED Plus screen with HDR 10+ and Dolby Vision support.

Also Read : Realme GT 7 Pro Camera Shots Revealed: First Look of Box Packing with Incorrect Processor Name Surfaces

Also Read : Realme GT 7 Pro Global Version to Feature Snapdragon 8 Elite, Brighter Display, and Larger Battery

Also Read : Realme GT 7 Pro India Launch Confirmed: Specs Leak Reveals Impressive Details

Google Photos Introduces New ‘Updates’ Feed Replacing The ‘Sharing’ Tab

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Highlights

  • Google Photos is replacing the “Sharing” tab with an “Updates” feed.
  • It will be accessible via a notification bell icon.
  • Users can still access sharing activities and conversations through the overflow menu.
  • The “Updates” feed is rolling out for Android, not yet available on iOS.

Google Photos has been on a spree of revamping the app functionalities lately. Earlier in August this year, the app update swapped out the “Library” tab for “Collections.” Now, a recent 9to5 Google report suggests that Google Photos is rolling out another change.

According to reports, Google Photos is replacing the “Sharing” tab with an “Updates” feed.

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The New Google Photos update shows a bell icon in the app for users to check recent conversations and shared links. (Screenshot credit – 9to5Google)

Previously, users could find the Sharing page by tapping a ‘people’ icon between the ‘plus’ menu and profile avatar. This page offered shortcuts like “Create shared album” and “Share with partner,” followed by an “Albums and Memories” carousel and a list of ongoing “Conversations.”

Now after the recent update, users will see a notification bell icon in the app bar to “See recent sharing updates, including conversations and shared links.”

Tapping this opens the new “Updates” feed. From the overflow menu, users can still access the following –

  • Sharing activities including Shared links, Shared memories and Conversations
  • Conversations

It appears that Google is steadily moving away from its in-app messaging system, Conversations. The notification bell icon is now familiar in Google’s ecosystem and is also used in apps like Home, Play Store and YouTube.

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Google Photo’s in-app messaging system is called Conversations. (Screenshot credit – 9to5Google)

This “Updates” feed is rolling out for Google Photos on Android.

However, the update is not yet available on iOS.

In a previous update back in August, Google Photos added the “Collections” tab in an attempt to make “finding content easier than ever.” This tab now shows two new pill-shaped buttons for quick access to “Favorites” and “Trash”. It follows a 2×2 grid design that has access “based on the items you navigate to the most.”

FAQs

Q1. What change is Google Photos rolling out?

Answer. Google Photos is replacing the “Sharing” tab with an “Updates” feed.

Q2. How can users access sharing activities and conversations after the update?

Answer. Users can still access sharing activities including Shared links, Shared memories, and Conversations through the overflow menu.

Q3. Is the new “Updates” feed on Google Photos available on iOS?

Answer. The “Updates” feed is rolling out for Google Photos on Android, but the update is not yet available on iOS.

Also Read : Google Photos Adds AI Info Section for AI-Edited Images

Also Read : Google Photos Enhances HDR Image Editing for Pixel Users: Memories to Replace Timeline Feature

Also Read : Google Photos to Soon Add Long-Awaited Flip or Mirror Feature for Photos and Videos

PIB Fact Check Warns of ‘SBI Rewards’ App Download Scam, RBI Plans AI-Based Anti-Fraud System

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Highlights

  • PIB Fact Check warned users about a scam involving fake ‘SBI Rewards’ links.
  • Urges caution against downloading unknown files or clicking suspicious links.
  • RBI is developing an AI-enabled system to alert individuals of possible fraud in real-time.
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Fraudsters are scamming people with a “SBI Rewards” App Download Message. PIB Issues Warning. (Image credit – PIB on X)

Every day fraudsters are getting creative and finding new ways to trap gullible people online.

The system has to be on its toes to keep citizens aware of what latest cyber threats looming.

In a recent such attempt, the Press Information Bureau (PIB) Fact Check handle on X (previously Twitter) issued a warning to customers about a scam involving fake ‘SBI Rewards’ links.

In a post X post, the PIB Fact Check account urged users to “never download unknown files or click on links” from suspicious sources.


PIB’s alert on X stated: “Beware‼️ Did you also receive a message asking you to download & install an APK file to redeem SBI rewards?”

The message added, “PIB Fact Check: SBI NEVER sends links or APK files over SMS / WhatsApp. Never download unknown files or click on such links.”

A viral message has been circulating urging people to download the fake app for ‘SBI rewards.’

RBI To Develop New AI System to Tackle Cyber Fraud

In separate news, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is reportedly working on a new AI-enabled system to help alert individuals of possible fraud in real time.

According to a recent report on Mint, two sources have confirmed that this RBI initiative involves banks using a central data repository managed by the RBI, containing information on various fraud cases and known fraudsters.

The AI-driven system would detect and flag suspicious transactions before they occur.

The RBI Innovation Hub (RBIH), a subsidiary of RBI, has already developed the MuleHunter AI model, which uses AI and machine learning to help banks identify “mule accounts” used by fraudsters.

The upcoming system aims to proactively alert users to secure their digital transactions.

Rising Cases Of Online Fraud

Multiple reports have recently highlighted the significant rise in cyber fraud cases across India.

PM Modi in one of his recent addresses also noted the menace of cyber fraud and noted how people are losing large sums to such scams.

Government data shows that Indians lost approximately ₹120.3 crore to digital fraud in the first quarter of this year alone.

Moreover, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) recently launched its “International Incoming Spoofed Calls Prevention System.” This system was rolled out in two phases and will detect and block spam international calls that falsely display as Indian numbers.

FAQs

Q1. What warning did PIB Fact Check issue regarding the ‘SBI Rewards’ app?

Answer. The Press Information Bureau (PIB) Fact Check handle on X issued a warning to customers about a scam involving fake ‘SBI Rewards’ links.

Q2. What is the RBI doing to tackle cyber fraud?

Answer. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is reportedly working on a new AI-enabled system to help alert individuals of possible fraud in real time.

Q3. How significant are the losses due to digital fraud in India?

Answer. Government data shows that Indians lost approximately ₹120.3 crore to digital fraud in the first quarter of this year alone.

Also Read : TRAI Urges Mobile Users to Report Fraudulent Disconnection Messages

Also Read : Beware of iPhone Selling Scams: Protect Your Apple ID from Clever Fraudsters

Bengaluru Consumer Court Fines Matrimony Site Rs 60,000 for Failing to Find Suitable Bride

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Highlights

  • Bengaluru Consumer Court fined Dilmil Matrimony Rs 60,000 for failing to find a suitable bride.
  • Vijaya Kumar K S paid Rs 30,000 to Dilmil Matrimon.
  • The matrimony site failed to deliver on its promise or provide a refund, leading to a legal case.
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Bengaluru consumer court fines matrimony portal Rs 60,000. (Image credit – Unknown)

You can now claim compensation if a matrimony site promises to find a suitable match and then fails. A recent consumer court case slapped a Rs 60,000 fine on the matrimony site for not finding a suitable match.

Here’s how the story unfolded.

A consumer court in Bengaluru has fined matrimony portal Dilmil Matrimony Rs 60,000 after it failed to fulfil its promise of finding a suitable bride for a customer’s son.

A resident from M S Nagar in Bengaluru, Vijaya Kumar K S sought a potential bride for his son Balaji and approached Dilmil Matrimony’s office in Kalyan Nagar on March 17. Kumar submitted the required documents and photos and Dilmil Matrimony charged him Rs 30,000, promising to find a suitable match within 45 days.

When Dilmil Matrimony was unable to deliver on this promise, Vijaya Kumar visited their office several times, only to be repeatedly asked to wait.

On April 30, he requested a refund but staff allegedly “refused his request and verbally abused him during his visit, using offensive language.”

In response, Vijaya Kumar issued a legal notice on May 9 but received no response.

On October 28, the court ruled, “The complainant did not get a single profile to choose a suitable match for his son, and even when the complainant visited the office of OP (Dilmil), they could not satisfy him or return the amount to the complainant.”

President of the Commission Ramachandra M S, in the order, said, “The commission has no hesitation to hold that there is a clear deficiency rendered by the OP during the course of service to the complainant and that the OP has indulged in unfair trade practices, for which the OP is held liable to refund the amount along with other reliefs granted in the complaint.”

The court ordered Dilmil Matrimony to refund the Rs 30,000 fee and pay an additional Rs 20,000 for deficiency in service.

It also slapped Rs 5,000 for mental agony and Rs 5,000 towards litigation costs, together all totalling Rs 60,000 for the matrimony site to pay to the Kuman.

FAQ

Q1. Why did the Bengaluru Consumer Court fine Dilmil Matrimony?

Answer. A consumer court in Bengaluru has fined matrimony portal Dilmil Matrimony Rs 60,000 after it failed to fulfil its promise of finding a suitable bride for a customer’s son.

Q2. How much did Vijaya Kumar K S pay to Dilmil Matrimony?

Answer. Kumar submitted the required documents and photos and Dilmil Matrimony charged him Rs 30,000, promising to find a suitable match within 45 days.

Q3. What was the court’s ruling regarding the refund and additional costs?

Answer. The court ordered Dilmil Matrimony to refund the Rs 30,000 fee and pay an additional Rs 20,000 for deficiency in service, Rs 5,000 for mental agony, and Rs 5,000 towards litigation costs.

Also Read : Delhi Online Matrimonial Scam 

Also Read :Viral News: Delhi Woman’s Boyfriend Earning Rs 42 LPA Waits 42 Minutes to Save Rs 80 Surge Charge on Zepto 

Also Read : Face Swapping Romance Scams: A Guide

Apple Delays Affordable ‘Apple Vision’ Headset Until 2027, Analyst Kuo Reports

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Highlights

  • Apple delayed the release of a budget-friendly Vision headset to 2027 instead of 2025.
  • A new Vision Pro is expected in 2025 featuring an M5 chip and Apple Intelligence.
  • Ming-Chi Kuo suggests the delay is due to the need for successful use cases.
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Affordable Apple Vision Pro gets delayed to 2027 as per reports. (Image credit – Apple)

Supply chain analyst Ming-Chi Kuo reports that Apple has delayed its release of a budget-friendly version of the Apple Vision headset.

According to Kuo in an X (previously Twitter) post, the company is pushing its launch to 2027 instead of 2025.

Previous leaks suggested Apple was planning to debut this more affordable model next year with simplified materials, lower-resolution displays and no EyeSight feature. The aim was to make spatial computing accessible to a broader audience.

However, as recent reports now confirm, plans at Apple have been changed.

TF International Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo is a trusted source and has been known in the tech community as someone who accurately reports the latest updates.

Kuo still expects Apple to launch a new version of the Apple Vision Pro next year.

It is expected to feature the M5 chip and integration with Apple Intelligence, though additional hardware upgrades are uncertain.

Drawing a comparison, Kuo noted that Apple’s attempt to reach a wider market with the lower-cost HomePod mini did not make smart speakers a mainstream product.

“I think what really drove Apple to delay the cheaper Vision Pro is that simply reducing the price wouldn’t help create successful use cases. It’s similar to the HomePod situation—even after launching the cheaper HomePod mini, Apple’s smart speakers failed to become mainstream products,” Kuo wrote in his post.

It seems Apple similarly believes a $2,000 headset may not significantly broaden visionOS’s reach.

A user highlighted on Kuo X’s post that there is no such thing as an affordable Apple product even when the product doesn’t have much to offer.

In a subsequent post as a response to the user, Kuo agreed that what Apple considers affordable could still be pricey when compared to others in the market.

He also mentioned that it all boils down to whether Apple can “provide successful cases.”

FAQs

Q1. When is Apple expected to release the budget-friendly Vision headset?

Answer. Apple has delayed its release of a budget-friendly version of the Apple Vision headset to 2027 instead of 2025.

Q2. What features are expected in the new version of the Apple Vision Pro next year?

Answer. The new version of the Apple Vision Pro next year is expected to feature the M5 chip and integration with Apple Intelligence.

Q3. Why did Apple decide to delay the cheaper Vision Pro?

Answer. Ming-Chi Kuo suggests the delay is due to the need for successful use cases, similar to the HomePod mini situation.

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Apple to Release iOS 18.2 Earlier Than Expected, To Bring New AI Features

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Highlights

  • Apple plans to release the iOS 18.2 update earlier than expected.
  • It is most likely to be released in the week of December 2nd, 2024.
  • The update includes major Apple Intelligence features like Genmoji and ChatGPT integration.
  • iOS 18.4 is expected to roll out in April 2025.
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We will reportedly get the iOS 18.2 rollout earlier than expected. (Image credit – Apple)

Apple launched the iPhone 16 lineup earlier with the tagline “Build for Apple Intelligence.” To everyone’s disappointment, the newly launched phones didn’t come with Apple Intelligence features out of the box.

The Cupertino giant instead planned a gradual release of Apple Intelligence in iOS 18 and subsequent updates. We have got the iOS 18.1 update recently and it includes some intelligence features, however, some of the biggest features announced earlier are still not rolled out.

It was previously reported that all the major Apple Intelligence features with the next iOS 18.2 update are expected to be released in late December 2024.

Now in good news for Apple fans, the latest reports suggest Apple is planning an earlier-than-expected release for iOS 18.2,

According to Bloomberg’s Apple reporter Mark Gurman Apple’s iOS 18.2 is set to arrive a bit earlier than expected, likely in the week of December 2nd.

In his latest Power On newsletter, Gurman mentions that “the iOS 18.2 operating system update, which includes major improvements to Apple Intelligence […] is likely to arrive on the earlier side of December, I’m told. How early? The week of Dec. 2, barring any unexpected delays.”

This earlier release may reflect Apple’s eagerness to bring its latest AI features such as Genmoji and ChatGPT integration to users without delay.

Usually, Apple’s iOS .2 updates come out around mid-December; for example, iOS 17.2 was released on December 11th, and iOS 16.2 on December 13th.

But this time, users will get to experience Apple’s next phase of Apple Intelligence roughly a week ahead of the usual schedule.

Gurman also hints at what’s coming with iOS 18.4.

Apple is moving away from its usual timeline for iOS .4 updates, which usually appear in March. This release will come a bit later, most likely to roll out in April 2025.

The update is anticipated to bring significant enhancements to Siri including support for personal context, further advancing Apple’s AI-powered features.

FAQs

Q1. When is Apple planning to release the iOS 18.2 update?

Answer. Apple’s iOS 18.2 update is likely to arrive in the week of December 2nd, 2024, earlier than expected.

Q2. What major features are included in the iOS 18.2 update?

Answer. The update includes major Apple Intelligence features such as Genmoji and ChatGPT integration.

Q3. When is the iOS 18.4 update expected to be released?

Answer, The iOS 18.4 update is anticipated to roll out in April 2025, bringing significant enhancements to Siri.

Also Read : Apple Intelligence Now Available with iOS 18.1 Update: Offers Writing Tools, Enhanced Siri, Notification Summaries, Focus Mode, and More

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