Many creators on YouTube are making videos and pursuing it as a career option and in case their account gets hacked, they are at the verge of losing the work of their life. To solve that and to aid creators in such cases, YouTube has introduced a new troubleshooting tool which is an AI chatbot that can help users with hacked accounts to get back into their account.
YouTube says that the new AI chatbot will guide hacked accounts through re-securing their login and helping them recover their account as the very first step after it’s been hacked. Eligible users will see the option to troubleshoot a hacked channel in the YouTube Help Center.
This tool will guide users through a series of questions about them and their channel to first secure their Google login and to undo any changes the hacker may have made to the channel. As of now, this new tool is only available in English (when accessing the Help Center in English) and certain troubleshooting features within the tool are only available for certain creators.
However, YouTube confirms it is working to make this available to all users in the future. YouTube also noted that there are other ways available to get in touch with creator support if your account gets hacked until the new AI chatbot is made available to everyone.
Earlier this month, YouTube began inviting users to write notes below ‘inaccurate or unclear’ videos, a feature similar to that of X’s community notes. If you’re eligible to write notes, you’ll need to sign up on the YouTube mobile App to get started. The Notes feature will allow people to add notes to provide relevant, timely, and easy-to-understand context on YouTube videos.
Samsung might seem finished with its events for the year but that’s not true, as the company is planning to unveil a few more devices, including the upcoming Galaxy Tab S10 series which has already leaked once before. The new leak shows the promo materials of the Tab S10 Plus and the Tab S10 Ultra, while also confirming there’ll be no vanilla Tab S10 model.
The leak comes from Android Headlines, where the publication has shown off the two upcoming tablets, including the Tab S10 Plus and the Tab S10 Ultra. The marketing materials of the two tablets also confirm that the Galaxy Tab S10 series will consist of the Galaxy Tab S10 Plus and S10 Ultra only, and there won’t be an entry level option this time.
The publication suggests that these could be reserved for the other cheaper tablets from the brand, such as the Galaxy Tab A, or even the Galaxy Tab S9 FE from last year. Aside from that, the promo materials of the Tab S10 Plus and the Tab S10 Ultra also confirm that the tablets will retain the same design as the former two Ultra and Plus models in the Tab S8 and the Tab S9 series. There’ll be a slight difference where the S-Pen resides, where the housing would be of a different shade than the rest of the tablet.
Leaks suggest that the Tab S10 series will be arriving in October this year, alongside the Galaxy S24 FE. Another recent report from known tipster IceUniverse claims that Samsung will use MediaTek Dimensity 9300+ SoC across the Galaxy Tab S10 range, which means the standard, Plus, and the Ultra model will get the same Dimensity chip.
This is a significant move from Samsung, considering it has been sticking to Snapdragon flagship processors for its Tablets for the past couple of years.
OnePlus has recently begun rolling out the OxygenOS 14.0.1.900 update for its Nord CE 4 Lite model in India and other select markets, following the earlier release of the Nord CE 4. The update introduces new features, performance enhancements, and bug fixes to improve user experience.
The update enhances zoom performance during video recording, with similar improvements expected across other camera functions. OnePlus users in India can identify the update by the firmware version IN: CPH2619_14.0.1.900(EX01), while global and European users will see the version as GLO/EU: CPH2621_14.0.1.900(EX01).
OnePlus has urged users to stay vigilant for the update notification. The company encourages reporting any bugs encountered via the community thread for those who receive the update early. Indian users can also report issues directly by dialling *#800# and selecting the bug submission option.
Changelog Overview:
System Improvements:
The August 2024 Android security patch has been integrated, enhancing overall system security.
System stability has been improved, reducing the likelihood of crashes or unexpected behaviour.
Display issues affecting certain games have been resolved.
An issue with Eye comfort mode not functioning in some scenarios has been fixed.
The Accessibility Menu, previously unresponsive to taps in certain cases, has been corrected.
App Enhancements:
The process of renaming photos and videos has been streamlined for better efficiency.
Apps on the Share screen have been rearranged to prioritize the most frequently used options.
Camera Upgrades:
Video recording zoom performance has been improved, offering a smoother experience.
Some third-party apps have optimised Photo Resolution and clarity, enhancing the overall photography experience.
The OxygenOS 14.0.1.900 update aims to refine the performance and functionality of the Nord CE 4 Lite, ensuring a more secure and stable experience for users.
PlayStation has announced the August lineup for its PlayStation Plus Game Catalog, featuring a selection of popular titles, including The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, Wild Hearts, and Cult of the Lamb. These games are now available for PlayStation Plus Extra and Premium members, expanding the platform’s offerings for both PS4 and PS5 users.
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt [PS4, PS5]
In The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, players step into the boots of Geralt of Rivia, a mercenary monster slayer navigating a war-torn continent filled with mythical creatures. The PS5 version of the game has received substantial upgrades, with enhanced visuals, faster loading times, and the addition of community-created mods. The game also supports real-time ray tracing and 3D audio, offering a more immersive experience.
Wild Hearts Standard Edition [PS5]
Wild Hearts introduces a unique twist to the hunting genre, allowing players to battle nature-infused beasts with advanced technology. The game, developed by Omega Force in collaboration with EA Originals, can be played solo or in seamless co-op mode. Set in a fantasy world inspired by feudal Japan, Wild Hearts promises an epic adventure from the studio known for the Dynasty Warriors series.
Cult of the Lamb [PS4, PS5]
In Cult of the Lamb, players assume the role of a possessed lamb saved from destruction. To repay the debt, players must build and lead a cult, exploring diverse regions to gather followers and spread their influence. The game features a sprawling, randomly generated world in which players must defeat rival cult leaders and assert dominance.
Watch Dogs 2 [PS4]
Watch Dogs 2 allows players to assume the role of Marcus Holloway, a young San Francisco Bay Area hacker. In collaboration with the hacker group Dedsec, players work to dismantle the ctOS 2.0, an invasive operating system used to monitor and control citizens. The game combines hacking, exploration, and action as players navigate the tech-driven world.
Sword Art Online Titles [PS4, PS5]
This month’s lineup includes several Sword Art Online series titles, such as Last Recollection, Alicization Lycoris, Fatal Bullet, and Hollow Realization. Each game offers unique narratives and gameplay experiences, allowing players to immerse themselves in the expansive world of Sword Art Online with action-packed battles and character-driven stories.
Ride 5 [PS5]
Ride 5 brings an authentic motorcycle racing experience to the PlayStation 5. Players can choose from over 200 bikes from world-renowned manufacturers and race on more than 35 tracks. The game is designed to simulate the real feel of riding a motorcycle, delivering an adrenaline-fueled experience for racing enthusiasts.
These newly added games are available to PlayStation Plus Extra and Premium members starting today, providing a diverse selection of genres and experiences for players on both PS4 and PS5 platforms.
Zomato announced its decision to acquire Paytm’s movie and event ticketing business for ₹2,084.4 crore. The acquisition will enable Zomato to strengthen its ‘going out’ segment, which refers to its focus on providing services for dining, entertainment, and other leisure activities, while Paytm will refocus on its core operations. One97 Communications Ltd (OCL), Paytm’s parent company, confirmed the deal through a statement.
OCL has announced that it has entered into definitive agreements to sell its entertainment ticketing business, which includes movie, sports, and live event ticketing, to Zomato Ltd. The transaction, valued at ₹2,048 crores on a cash-free, debt-free basis, underscores the substantial value Paytm has created in the entertainment ticketing sector. According to the statement, Paytm’s ticketing services have catered to millions of Indian users, offering a wide range of choices and convenience.
Under the terms of the agreement, OCL will transfer its entertainment ticketing business to Zomato by moving it to its 100% subsidiaries, Orbgen Technologies Pvt Ltd (OTPL) and Wasteland Entertainment Pvt Ltd (WEPL), which will act as the entities through which the acquisition will take place. Zomato will then acquire 100% stakes in OTPL and WEPL, which operate the TicketNew and Insider platforms.
Paytm’s ticketing and entertainment options will remain available for the next 12 months. Users will be encouraged to transition to Zomato’s upcoming App dedicated to the ‘going out’ segment during this period. Zomato plans to launch the new app, named ‘District,’ and will incentivize customers to migrate to the platform by offering exclusive deals, discounts, and early access to new features.
Sony’s latest wireless headphones, the ULT Wear (WH-ULT900N), fit snugly into the brand’s lineup, positioned between the high-end WH-1000XM5 and the more budget-conscious WH-720N. Priced at Rs16,990, these headphones are aimed at a younger, on-the-go audience, promising powerful bass, comfort, and long battery life. This review delves into the design, comfort, controls, sound quality, noise cancellation, and battery life of the ULT Wear to determine their performance.
Design and Build Quality
The Sony ULT Wear’s design is minimalistic and functional, though it lacks the boldness, maybe in terms of design and colours, that some might expect from a product aimed at a younger demographic. The Sony logo and the ULT button feature a subtle rainbowy effect that adds a touch of flair when caught in the light. Available in black, white, and grey, these headphones weigh a mere 225g. Despite their lightweight, the ULT Wear feels robust and solid, giving confidence that they can withstand the rigours of daily use.
At first glance, the plastic exterior might appear somewhat cheap, but a closer look reveals similarities with the more premium WH-1000XM5, especially in the earcups’ design. The ULT Wear also features an adjustable, cushioned headband and soft earcups that sit comfortably over the ears. These elements work together to ensure that the headphones can be worn for extended periods without causing discomfort.
Comfort and Portability
Comfort is a key consideration for headphones, especially for those who wear them for hours at a time. The ULT Wear excels in this area with its cushioned headband and plush earcups that don’t feel restrictive, even after long listening sessions. The earcups are hinged, allowing the headphones to fold flat and fit neatly into the fabric carry case provided. This design makes them highly portable and convenient for travel.
However, there is a minor drawback. The headband can sometimes create downward pressure on the top of the head, particularly after prolonged use. This issue, though noticeable, can be easily mitigated with short breaks. On the whole, the ULT Wear feels secure, even when worn during brisk walks, slow running or while navigating crowded streets.
Control Interface
The ULT Wear offers a straightforward control interface that combines touch controls and physical buttons. The touch-sensitive right ear cup allows users to manage volume, track navigation, and playback with simple gestures. A double-tap pauses or plays music, while swiping up or down adjusts the volume, and swiping forward or backward skips tracks.
On the left ear cup, there are physical buttons for power, ULT Button and switching between ANC and Ambient Sound modes. These controls are intuitive and easy to use, making it simple to manage your listening experience without needing to take your phone out of your pocket.
For users who want more advanced features, the Sony Headphones Connect App is a must-have. Available on both the App Store and Play Store, the app allows users to access Sony’s 360 Reality Audio content, tweak EQ settings, adjust ANC levels, and stay on top of firmware updates.
Sound Quality and Audio Features
The ULT Wear headphones are designed with bass lovers in mind. The 40mm drivers deliver a robust low-end response, which can be further enhanced using the ULT bass function. This feature offers three settings: Off, ULT 1, and ULT 2. The ULT 1 mode provides a significant boost to the bass without overpowering the mids and highs, making it suitable for most genres. However, ULT 2 takes the bass to extreme levels, which can result in a muddied sound that drowns out other frequencies. This setting might appeal to fans of electronic music, hip-hop, or bass-heavy pop tracks but is likely too intense for more balanced listening.
Even without engaging the ULT modes, the ULT Wear delivers a punchy low end that complements most music genres. For those who prefer a more neutral sound profile, turning off the ULT modes offers a well-rounded audio experience where vocals remain clear, and the bass is present but not overwhelming.
The Sony ULT Wear also supports high-resolution audio streaming via Bluetooth 5.2, thanks to Sony’s LDAC codec. This codec allows for audio streaming at up to 990kbps, providing a noticeable improvement over standard Bluetooth audio quality. Additionally, the headphones feature Sony’s Digital Sound Enhancement Engine (DSEE), which upscales compressed audio files to restore some of their original quality.
Noise Cancellation and Ambient Sound Modes
Sony has equipped the ULT Wear with impressive noise-cancellation capabilities. The headphones effectively reduce low-frequency noises, such as the hum of a fan or car engine. Like chatter in a crowded café, mid-range sounds are also significantly subdued. While high-pitched noises are more challenging to block entirely, the thick earpads create a secure seal that helps minimize their intrusion.
The Ambient Sound mode is another standout feature, allowing users to hear external sounds without removing the headphones. This mode is handy when walking through busy streets or needing to stay aware of your surroundings. A dedicated voice passthrough option further enhances this mode by amplifying human voices while reducing background noise.
Battery Life and Charging
Battery life is critical for wireless headphones, and the ULT Wear does not disappoint. It delivered around 30 hours of continuous music playback on a single charge under standard settings. This impressive stamina means most users won’t need to recharge their headphones frequently, making them ideal for long trips or extended use.
When the battery runs low, the ULT Wear supports fast charging. A 3-minute charge provides up to 30 minutes of playback, while a full charge takes approximately 3.5 hours. This Fast charging feature is particularly useful for those moments when you need a power boost but don’t have time to wait for a full charge.
Samsung Galaxy S21 FE is now receiving a new update that introduces the acclaimed Circle to Search feature. The Galaxy S21 series received a single AI feature earlier this year but it excluded the Galaxy S21 FE where it didn’t receive the ‘Circle to Search’ feature but that’s changing now.
Samsung Galaxy S21 FE is now getting the August 2024 security patch which introduces the said AI feature for the device. Even though the S21 FE shares some hardware with its siblings, it didn’t have access to this feature until now, while other S21 series models had already received it.
Samsung partnered with Google to offer ‘Circle To Search’. If a user is using the three-button navigation system, they can long press on the home button, and circle, highlight, scribble on, or tap anything on the screen to see helpful, high-quality search results. And depending on a user‘s location, for certain searches, generative AI-powered overviews can provide helpful information and context pulled together from across the web, and users can ask more complex and nuanced questions.
Meanwhile, Samsung recently also expanded Circle to Search on a some new Galaxy A series phones and Galaxy Tab S9 FE series tablets. The Galaxy A55, A54, A35, and A34 are the ones that’ll be treated with the new update.
In other related news to Samsung, One UI 6.1.1 is rumoured to roll out for older Galaxy flagships by the end of this month. It will bring a host of new Galaxy AI features which debuted with Galaxy Z Flip 6 and the Galaxy Z Fold 6. One of them is the Auto Zoom feature in Flex Camera mode in the Z Flip 6, which will be coming to the Galaxy Z Flip5 along with the Flex Camcorder mode.
The Google Pixel 9 is now available worldwide and will go on sale tomorrow, August 22, in India. Priced at Rs 79,990, the Pixel 9 has to meet certain expectations for users to pay that high. Here’s what we feel about the device after using it for 24 hours.
The Pixel 9 comes quite nicely packed within a box that’s as compact as the phone. It gets a set of manuals, a SIM ejector tool, and a USB-C to USB-C cable. Once you pick up the device, you are greeted with this glass slab with an aluminium frame that feels and looks premium from every angle. The back is protected with the Gorilla Glass Victus 2.
The camera bump doesn’t melt into the frame like previous Pixel models and is a huge bump which many might not like. However, it does look unique and gorgeous, too, as this camera bar establishes an identity for the Pixel smartphones. Note that if you use your device without a case and place your phone on a table, the camera bar will be the first thing that’ll get scratched and too quite easily.
Due to its compact size, the device is easily usable with one hand. The flat sides aren’t sharp like those of the iPhone but have a minor curve, which accounts for a comfortable in-hand feel.
Out of all the Pixel smartphones I have tested so far, the Pixel 9 seems to be the most well-built and attractive Pixel in the whole family.
The Pixel 9’s Haptics are also strong and tight. They are some of the best haptics I have experienced since the OnePlus 12.
The punch-hole on the top of the display looks like it’s placed a little too low from the usual position. Speaking of the display, it’s a 6.3-inch panel with 1080 x 2424 pixels resolution, 120Hz refresh rate, 422 ppi, and up to 1800 nits HDR brightness and 2700 nits peak brightness. Same as the back panel, it is protected with Gorilla Glass Victus 2.
Initial impressions of the Pixel 9 display suggest it’s a panel you don’t need to worry about. It looks sharp, vivid, and quite smooth. However, the 120Hz Refresh Rate is disabled out of the box, so you’ll have to enable it manually via the display settings. The in-built fingerprint sensor is now an ultrasonic one, and it’s quite a notable and major upgrade in terms of real-world use compared to previous Pixel devices. It’s much more accurate and significantly faster as well.
The bezels around the display are thin and even on all sides, making it look similar to the Galaxy S24. This also makes the front of the device look more attractive while offering an immersive experience.
Pixel 9 Airtel SIM issue
I did face an issue with my Airtel SIM card. The device prompted me that it’s not supported, and I’ll have to get a new one. That’s not a device issue but an issue with my SIM card because it is over 10 years old and doesn’t support the latest 5G technology. I could figure that out, as the Jio SIM I inserted in the Pixel 9 seemed to work without any glitches.
The phone is powered by Google’s Tensor G4 SoC and has 12GB of RAM. It can hold up to 128GB or 256GB of storage. It runs on Android 14 out of the box and receives 7 years of Android OS upgrades, security updates, and regular Feature Drops.
While we haven’t tested it to its limits, initial impressions of the Pixel 9 lead us to believe that the device can easily handle day-to-day tasks with ease, along with some heavier workflows too. The animations are fluid, and we haven’t faced a single stutter yet. It runs on Android 14, and it’s the first time Google has shipped a device that’s not running on the latest version of Android. But that hasn’t stopped Google from adding new features, as you now get new AI features such as Pixel screenshots and Pixel Studio.
We’ll share more about how the device performs in our detailed review.
The camera App has some new features too, such as timer light. Enabling it will flash the flashlight on the back in sync with the timer countdown you set before clicking a photo. The new Add Me feature is a neat one too, wherein you can add yourself to a group shot after clicking it. Again, AI is used to merge the shots and make you appear neatly in the shot as if it was originally clicked with you.
The device’s camera performance and battery life also need to be tested. So far, the Pixel 9 looks promising for those who want a compact flagship. Whether it’s worth its price tag or not, we’ll answer that question at the end of our detailed review of the Pixel 9, so stay tuned.
iQOO India has announced the launch of the Z9s series in the country, consisting of two smartphones, including the iQOO Z9s 5G and the iQOO Z9s Pro 5G. The new iQOO devices come with processors from both Qualcomm and MediaTek. Here are all the details of the two new iQOO handsets.
iQOO Z9s 5G: Price, Availability, Specs
The iQOO Z9s 5G, priced at Rs 19,999 for 8GB+128GB, Rs 21,999 for 8GB+256GB and Rs 23,999 for 12GB+256GB, will be available for sale starting from August 29th, 12 PM onwards in Onyx Green and Titanium Matte colour variants. On purchase of iQOO Z9s 5G, customers can enjoy a flat discount of Rs 2000 with HDFC and ICICI Bank credit/debit card or exchange bonus of Rs 2000, coupled with no-cost EMI for up to 6 months. The device can be bought via iQOO India’s e-store and Amazon India.
The iQOO Z9s 5G gets a 6.78-inch FHD+ AMOLED panel with a 120Hz refresh rate, 300Hz touch sampling rate and 1800 nits peak brightness. It is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7300 SoC, coupled with up to 12GB LPDDR4x RAM and up to 256GB of UFS 2.2 storage.
It is backed by a dual rear camera system, including a 50MP f/1.79 Sony IMX882 main sensor with OIS, and a 2MP f/2.4 bokeh sensor. On the front, it gets a 16MP f/2.45 selfie sensor. It packs a 5500mAh battery with 44W Fast charging support. There is an in-display fingerprint sensor for biometrics. For audio, it has a stereo speaker setup.
The device will run on FunTouch OS 14 based on Android 14 and will receive 2 years of major OS upgrades. Connectivity options include Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth v5.4, GPS, 5G and a USB-C port for charging.
iQOO Z9s Pro 5G: Price, Availability, Specs
The iQOO Z9s Pro 5G, priced at Rs 24,999 for 8GB+128GB, Rs 26,999 for 8GB+256GB and Rs 28,999 for 12GB+256GB, will be available for sale starting from August 29th, 12 PM onwards in Luxe Marble and Flamboyant Orange colour variants.
On purchase of iQOO Z9s Pro 5G, customers can enjoy a flat discount of INR 3000 with HDFC and ICICI Bank credit/debit card or exchange bonus of INR 3000, coupled with no-cost EMI for up to 6 months. The device can be bought via iQOO India’s e-store and Amazon India.
The iQOO Z9s Pro 5G gets a 6.78-inch FHD+ AMOLED panel with a 120Hz refresh rate, 300Hz touch sampling rate and 4500 nits peak brightness. It is powered by the Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 SoC, coupled with up to 12GB LPDDR4x RAM and up to 256GB of UFS 2.2 storage.
It is backed by a dual rear camera system, including a 50MP f/1.79 Sony IMX882 main sensor with OIS and an 8MP ultra-wide angle f/2.2 sensor. On the front, it gets a 16MP f/2.45 selfie sensor.
It packs a 5500mAh battery with 80W Fast charging support. There is an in-display fingerprint sensor for biometrics. For audio, it has a stereo speaker setup. The device will run on FunTouch OS 14 based on Android 14. Connectivity options include Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth v5.4, GPS, 5G and a USB-C port for charging.
Samsung India today announced its plans to introduce 10 AI washing machines ahead of the festive season this year. The company had recently unveiled a teaser for its upcoming front-load AI-powered washing machine scheduled to be launched by the end of this month.
The brand says that the new AI-powered washing machines are a part its premium Bespoke AI range of home appliances for Indian consumers, offering enhanced connectivity and personalized experiences with intelligent and intuitive solutions that are “set to revolutionize the smart home experience.”
“Ahead of festive season this year, Samsung will be launching an exciting made in India line-up of AI-powered washing machines. There will be 10 models in the new line up with fully loaded AI innovations at every step of the washing process. This series is expected to be a game changer in the laundry market while significantly expanding Samsung India’s overall portfolio of washing machines,” Samsung India said in a statement.
Samsung had unveiled its 2024 line of Bespoke AI home appliances for Indian consumers in April this year. This lineup, powered by advanced artificial intelligence (AI), claims substantial energy savings and environmental benefits. Samsung’s Bespoke appliances in India that are powered by AI include refrigerators, air conditioners, microwaves, and washing machines.
The centrepiece of the AI-powered Bespoke series is the AI Energy Mode, which Samsung claims can deliver an average of 30 per cent energy efficiency across various appliances, lowering the electricity bill. A Samsung spokesperson said, “Refrigerators equipped with this mode can achieve up to 10% energy savings, while air conditioners boast up to 20%, and washing machines an astounding 70%.”
Back in May, the company debuted three new refrigerators which features Samsung’s next generation Artificial Intelligence-powered Inverter Compressor.
