Update 15/11/2024: Now Available on the App Store for download.
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Google debuted Gemini on Android devices and iPhones earlier this year, but the major difference between the two is that Android gets its own standalone Gemini app, while there’s no Google Gemini app for iPhone, which can be accessed via the Google app. That could soon change as the standalone Google Gemini app for iPhone has now been spotted in the wild.
According to a Reddit post, users can download and install the dedicated Gemini app on their iPhones. The app also gives iPhone users access to Gemini Live, which wasn’t previously available via the Gemini tab in the Google app for iPhones.
However, it seems like the app hasn’t been released widely, and only users in the Philippines have been able to access it so far. Users in the comments of the Reddit post say they have tried changing their regions from the US to the Philippines to access the app, and they have been successful in downloading and installing it.
There’s no word on when the app will launch worldwide, but so far, we haven’t been able to access it on our iPads here in India via the app store link. The easiest method to quickly access Gemini was to add a shortcut to the AI assistant through the Google widget.
With a standalone Google Gemini app for iPhone, Google will be able to better keep the app in sync with the Android version in terms of features and UI, as the iOS version of Gemini is still far behind compared to the Android version because the latter has features like Gemini Live and a more minimal UI.
Samsung has already revealed plans to introduce a cheaper foldable smartphone, and leaks suggest that the Galaxy Z Flip FE will be the Korean brand’s first such foldable. The Galaxy Z Flip FE processor details have been leaked, indicating that it will use the same chipset as the Galaxy S24 from earlier this year.
The Galaxy Z Flip FE processor was leaked by Jukanlosreve on X (formerly Twitter), suggesting it could be equipped with an Exynos 2400 processor, the same SoC used in the Galaxy S24 and the Galaxy S24+. Previous rumours suggested that the device could use a Snapdragon 7-series processor, but if the latest leak is to be believed, the Exynos 2400 could prove to be a better chipset, as per our experience with the chip in the Galaxy S24 series.
Samsung has always used flagship processors in its FE products, which are a generation old. Considering the Galaxy Z Flip FE is rumoured to launch alongside the Galaxy Z Flip 7 next year, the Exynos 2400 seems like an apt choice.
In addition, the leaker also said that the Galaxy Z Flip 7 is expected to have the Exynos 2500 under the hood. This would also mark a major shift in strategy as every foldable from Samsung has used a Qualcomm Snapdragon chip till now. Moreover, with what Samsung has done with the Exynos 2400, it’ll be exciting to see how the company further improves its chipset’s capabilities with the Exynos 2500.
Meanwhile, the Galaxy S25 series, which is coming early next year, was also rumoured to employ the dual-chip strategy. However, leaks now indicate that Samsung will give up on that strategy, at least for this year, as all the devices in the S25 series could use the Snapdragon 8 Elite processor.
Google Vids is rolling out to Workspace users, as spotted by multiple Google Workspace users. The Workspace suite of apps includes Gmail, Calendar, Drive, Docs/Sheets/Slides, Chat, and Meet, and Google Vids is the latest addition for users to create collaborative and shareable videos through a more convenient way than ever. Google Vids was first announced in April earlier this year.
As stated on docs.google.com/videos, Google Vids is “designed to help teams in customer service, learning and development, project ops and marketing tell more engaging stories at work through video.” Using Gemini in Vids, one can create an initial video storyboard with suggested scenes, stock media, background music and more, with only a prompt and a file from your Drive.
Google is marketing Vids as a new workspace tool for fun storytelling alongside other tools like PowerPoint, Docs, Sheets, etc. “People tell stories at work every day, whether it’s HR onboarding new employees to the organisation’s mission, the training team creating digital learning experiences, or a salesperson pitching a new client on the benefits of their offering”, says Google in a blog post. Some of the best use cases of Google Vids highlighted by Google include:
Customer service teams use it to enhance help center articles with videos.
Company leaders create and share company-wide updates and announcements in video format.
Learning and development teams are producing employee training tutorials.
Marketing teams creating campaign recaps.
Project management teams use it for meeting recaps, business updates, and report sharing.
In addition, AI-powered features in Google Vids—such as “Help me create,” “Generate a voiceover,” “Remove image backgrounds,” “Generate an image,” and the “Recording studio read-along teleprompter”—are free for all users until December 31, 2025. Google mentioned that usage limits for these AI features may be introduced starting in 2026, and the company will inform users in advance for the same.
Google Vids is rolling out now and may take up to 15 days to become fully available for Google Workspace accounts, including Business Standard, Business Plus, Enterprise Standard, Enterprise Plus, Essentials, Enterprise Essentials, Enterprise Essentials Plus, and Education Plus. Google recommends updating your Browser to the latest version for the best experience. Supported browsers include Chrome, Firefox, and EDGE (for Windows devices only).
The PS5 Pro was announced in select regions earlier in September this year. It features improved performance compared to the regular PS5 and went on sale on November 7. However, Sony India has confirmed that the PlayStation 5 Pro will not be available in India. The reason for this is the unavailability of the 6GHz wireless Band used in IEEE 802.11be (Wi-Fi 7) in the region.
Sony India said in a statement, “PS5 Pro will not be available in some countries (which presently includes India) where 6GHz wireless band used in IEEE 802.11be (Wi-Fi 7) has not yet been allowed.”
Decoding 6 GHz wireless band
The 6 GHz wireless band, used in Wi-Fi 7 (IEEE 802.11be), is critical because it enables faster speeds, lower latency, and greater capacity than previous Wi-Fi standards. Expanding beyond the congested 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands, the 6 GHz band opens up more channels and reduces interference, especially in areas with many connected devices. For instance, the more devices you connect to a 5 GHz band, the more congested it becomes, adversely affecting Latency and speeds on all connected devices.
This capability, which the 6 GHz wireless band possesses, is particularly beneficial for high-performance devices like the PS5 Pro, which require stable, high-speed internet for demanding activities such as online gaming, streaming, and content downloads. With Wi-Fi 7 and the 6 GHz band, users can experience a smoother and more responsive connection, allowing quicker downloads and lag-free gameplay.
Some countries, including India, have regulatory restrictions on the 6 GHz band, so devices that use this Frequency cannot be fully supported. Consequently, PS5 Pro will not be available in these regions until local regulations permit the use of the 6 GHz band. This ensures compatibility with Wi-Fi 7 and maximizes the device’s potential performance.
6 GHz Band Allocation in India
India’s stance on the release of the 6 GHz band has been uncertain. In August of this year, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) delayed its decision to allocate the 6 GHz band due to an ongoing dispute between telecom operators and technology firms.
The entire 6 GHz band will be allocated to the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) for satellite use until a Resolution is achieved, according to a report by the Financial Express.
The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and its member countries have designated the 6 GHz band for International Mobile Telecommunications (IMT) in Region 1, encompassing Europe, West Asia, and Africa. In response, India, located in Region 3, has extended its decision-making timeline until 2027. This extension provides additional time to conduct studies on the coexistence of telecommunications and satellite communications.
By 2027, users will expect the PlayStation 6 to come out as the PS5 series is reaching its end-of-life cycle (based on Sony’s previous console releases), meaning the PS5 Pro may never arrive in India.
PS5 Pro was announced back in September. Within it, Sony has upgraded to a GPU with 67% more computing units than the current PS5 console and 28% faster memory. According to the brand, this enables up to 45% faster rendering for gameplay, making the experience much smoother.
Finally, PS5 Pro supports even more powerful ray tracing capabilities that provide more dynamic reflection and refraction of light. This allows the rays to be cast at double, and at times triple, the speeds of the current PS5 console.
Google is launching a new Updates page in Google Photos, which the company claims will make it easier than ever to catch up on new activities. This new feature hasn’t been rolled out to all users yet and may take weeks to appear on your device. Here’s everything you need to know about it.
The new Updates page in Google Photos replaces the current ‘Sharing’ page that shows you all the notifications of what is being shared in the albums you are a part of. You can access Updates by tapping on the bell icon at the top right. The Updates page is chronologically organised, and you can view your incoming activity from today, yesterday, this week, this month, last month, and beyond.
Google said that the aim is to streamline how you can view recent activity with an interface that makes albums, groups, and conversations more accessible. It has also added shortcuts for each activity to access albums and conversations on one page.
The Updates page in Google Photos also makes collaboration and connection effortless. You will get notified whenever there is a new interaction with your content. You can find the following in the Updates page:
Then, you can also access shared albums from Collections. In addition, you’ll get notified when there is new activity in your conversations, like when someone adds you to an existing conversation or when you receive new photos. You can access your conversations anytime through notifications and Updates. If you want to view all of your conversations, you can find them through Photos settings, which is also accessible through the Menu in Updates.
Google adds that the Updates page is now rolling out to all Android and iOS Google Photos App users. If you can’t find the Updates page yet, you can check back over the coming weeks. We have already received the Updates page in Google Photos on multiple devices.
Sony has announced the launch of the PlayStation 5 30th Anniversary Limited Edition Console and Accessories in India. All the products are now available to pre-order. The limited edition console gives the PlayStation 5 Slim a retro feel similar to the original first-gen PlayStation.
The 30th Anniversary Limited Edition PlayStation 5 is now available to pre-order in India via Amazon. The console bundle costs Rs 49,999, the wireless controller Rs 6,849, the DualSense EDGE wireless controller Rs 20,999, and the PlayStation Portal Remote Player Rs 20,799. All PlayStation 30th Anniversary Limited Edition products will be available from November 22.
The PlayStation 5 30th Anniversary Limited Edition Bundle includes a special version of the PS5 Digital Edition console and accessories. These feature throwback design elements and a legacy colour scheme that pays homage to the original PlayStation console launched on December 3rd, 1994.
Original PlayStation controller-style cable connector housing
4 PlayStation shapes cable ties
PlayStation sticker
Limited edition PlayStation poster (one of 30 possible designs)
PlayStation paperclip
Meanwhile, Sony unveiled the PS5 Pro earlier in September this year, which is also going on sale internationally, but there’s no word on when it arrives in India. With the PS5 Pro, Sony has upgraded to a GPU with 67% more Compute Units than the current PS5 console and 28% faster memory. Overall, according to the brand, this enables up to 45% faster rendering for gameplay, making the experience much smoother.
Finally, PS5 Pro supports even more powerful ray tracing capabilities that provide more dynamic reflection and refraction of light. This allows the rays to be cast at double, and at times triple, the speeds of the current PS5 console.
Samaung revealed its plans to give Bixby a major AI overhaul in July earlier this year and it seems like that overhaul is ready for rollout, considering Samsung just launched the next-generation Bixby in China. The new Bixby debuted alongside the Samsung W25 and the W25 Flip in the country, which are China’s version of the Galaxy Z Fold Special Edition and the Galaxy Z Flip 6.
The new AI-powered Bixby will be available first on the Samsung W25 and W25 Flip in China. Samsung has highlighted four major new capabilities of the next-generation Bixby, starting with the ability to incorporate video into responses. For example, when requesting travel tips, Bixby can now add relevant videos to text replies.
Then, another new feature enables Bixby to translate entire web pages, making it easier for users to access information in different languages.
Then, Samsung notes that the new Bixby will also be able to make use of AI to understand “complex user intentions.” This means that the new generation of Bixby can capture and process multi-task instructions which the user might incorporate in a sentence. For instance, a user could say, “Turn on the vibration mode and tell me the schedule at 5 p.m. tomorrow,” and Bixby will be able to fulfill both these tasks.
The company notes that the new version will have improved contextual understanding of instructions and can also utilize on-screen content. Finally, one of the biggest new features of the next-generation Bixby is that it can intelligently generate PPT, Word and other document content according to the users’ needs to improve editing efficiency.
Samsung has truly introduced a worthy upgrade for Bixby and it actually needed one considering the AI assistant has long faced an existential crisis, especially in front of better assistants such as ChatGPT or Google Gemini. It’s unclear when this new Bixby would make its way to other markets outside China, but there’s a high possibility we could see it alongside the launch of One UI 7 early next year, or with the beta that’s expected to come later this month.
Microsoft has begun integrating AI in Paint and Notepad and is rolling out the update to Windows Insiders in the Canary and Dev Channels on Windows 11. Microsoft Paint has a generative fill and generative erase feature, while in Microsoft Notes, you get the AI rewrite feature.
Generative Fill, Generative Erase AI Features in Paint
Microsoft is introducing generative fill-in-paint, a new creation tool with which you can make edits and additions with a few words while maintaining the existing art style of your project. Generative fill helps you fine-tune your digital art with the right amount of “AI to assist you in realizing your creative vision while remaining in full control of the output,” said Microsoft.
One can use the Selection tool in the Paint toolbar to make a Rectangle or Free-form selection. Upon selecting the area, a small menu will pop up anchored to your selection. Select the Generative fill option on the menu, use the text box to describe what you want to add to your selection, and tap on Create.
If you aren’t satisfied with the result, press the Try Again button. You can also try refining your selection or text prompt. Use the arrow buttons to cycle through the generated options, and once you are satisfied with one of the generated images, press the Keep button to apply it to your Paint canvas.
Microsoft said in a statement, “Generative fill will initially be available on Snapdragon-powered Copilot+ PCs. To use generative fill, you will need to sign in with your Microsoft account. This feature is only available for Windows Insiders in supported markets, where availability may vary based on regional criteria.”
Next is Generative Erase, a new AI-powered tool that helps you remove unwanted objects from the canvas. It fills in the empty space left behind to make it look like the object was never there. To get started, select Generative Erase on the left side of the canvas while using the eraser tool.
With the generative erase brush, you can manually brush over one or multiple areas of the canvas to select the content you want to remove. “Add area to erase” lets you select more and “Reduce area to erase” lets you reduce your selection. After you are satisfied with your selection, click Apply to remove the object. You can also use rectangular or free-from selection tools to specify an area you want to remove with the Generative erase command in the small menu pop-up anchored to your selection or the right-click menu. Generative erase is available to users on all Windows 11 PCs.
Additionally, in Cocreator, which is available on Snapdragon-powered Copilot+ PCs, Microsoft has improved the underlying diffusion-based model to deliver better results faster. Also, Microsoft expanded the Image Creator in Paint preview to all Windows 11 users in the following regions: the United States, France, the UK, Canada, Italy, and Germany.
AI Rewrite in Notepad
With this new AI feature, Microsoft is adding the ability to rewrite content in Notepad using generative AI. You can rephrase sentences, adjust the tone, and modify the length of your content based on your preferences to refine your text.
To get started, highlight the text you want to rewrite, then right-click and select “Rewrite,” choose “Rewrite” from the menu bar or use the Ctrl + I shortcut. Notepad will generate three rewritten variations for you to pick from. You can select one or, if you want further refinement, customize the rewrite settings and click “Retry” to produce additional options.
You can also adjust the output by making it longer or shorter or by changing the tone or format to match specific needs. Previous versions remain available in the current dialogue, so you can easily revert to an earlier version if needed. If desired, you can disable the rewrite feature in the App settings.
The rewrite feature in Notepad is available in preview for all users on Windows 11 in the United States, France, UK, Canada, Italy, and Germany. To access rewrite, sign in with your Microsoft account. Microsoft 365 Personal and Family and Copilot Pro subscribers in Australia, New Zealand, Malaysia, Singapore, Taiwan, and Thailand can also use AI credits to access the rewrite feature in Notepad.
Microsoft has also improved the Notepad launch performance. “With this update, most users will see app launch time improve by more than 35%, with some users seeing improvements of 55% or more,” said the company.
OxygenOS 15 for OnePlus 12 is now rolling out globally for all users. The stable build revamps the animation engine from the ground up and includes several new features, such as extensive lock screen customisation, new Always-on display clock styles, and more.
As announced on OnePlus Community, the global rollout of OxygenOS 15 for OnePlus 12 began one week earlier than anticipated. The rollout has started across India, North America, Europe, and other international regions and will continue reaching more users in batches throughout the week.
The versions that are being rolled out for various regions are as follows:
IN: CPH2573_15.0.0.206(EX01)
NA: CPH2583_15.0.0.205(EX01)
EU/GLO: CPH2581_15.0.0.204(EX01)
Some notable changes in the update include a new system graphics engine that enhances rendering and animation, delivering smooth, uninterrupted visuals even under heavy load. System-wide swipe consistency has been extended to third-party apps, providing a seamless scrolling experience.
The Home screen has been redesigned with updated icons, new themes, floating window gestures, and resizable Split View windows. There’s now a separate Quick Settings and notification drawer, a refreshed Quick Settings design, and a selection of new wallpapers. These changes are just a small part of the extensive OnePlus release changelog.
However, it seems like OnePlus rushed to get the update out to the general public as soon as possible because the company noted that it doesn’t have any AI features. The brand said in the post, “To provide the signature fast and smooth OnePlus experience, AI-related features are still being tested and will be gradually integrated in future versions by the end of this month.”
The company recently also rolled out the closed beta of OxygenOS 15 for a couple of its Nord smartphones. Unfortunately, the update for these mid-range devices has a major omission: the new animation engine that OnePlus 12 users get.
Realme UI 6.0 early access for Realme GT 6 is now available in India. The new version of Realme UI is based on Android 15 and brings many new features and improvements similar to those found in ColorOS 15 and OxygenOS 15. As it is an early access version, some bugs are expected, and users are advised to proceed with caution.
Realme UI 6.0 Early Access: New Features
As announced on Realme community, the company has announced the availability of realme UI 6.0 Early Access, powered by Android 15 Beta, for its realme GT 6. The full changelog of the update is as follows:
realme UI 6.0: Smart and speedy | Level up your experience
Enjoy a fresh design with fluid animations and enhanced visuals, a powerful system with AI functions, and numerous system-wide improvements.
[Buttery smooth interactions]
【Animations】
•Introduces visual rendering and animation capabilities for a brand-new look and feel.
•A cutting-edge system graphics engine is available to deliver superior rendering and animation performance. Its innovative parallel drawing architecture ensures smooth, uninterrupted visuals, even when switching between multiple apps or pushing the system to its limits. Stability and fluidity are guaranteed under any conditions.
•Parallel animation covers more elements like widgets, components, and folders, ensuring seamless transitions and smooth animations, even during frequent interruptions.
[Brand new design]
【Visual effects】
•Revamps App icons with vibrant colours, fuller shapes, and refined details for a clean, energetic look.
•Numerous system function icons are overhauled for improved visual uniformity.
•Applies advanced visual effects like real-time blending, dynamic blur, and diffused shadows for a more natural and refined interface.
【Themes】
•The new flux themes feature many high-quality themes, allowing customization with system wallpapers and personal photos for a personalized touch.
•Extensive customization is added for Always-On Display, the Lock screen, and the Home screen. Flux and classic modes are supported for Always-On Display. Clock color blending, glass textures, blurred wallpapers, AI depth effects, AI auto-fills, and more are supported for the Lock screen. Glass patterns, blurred wallpapers, and more are supported for the Home screen.
•The new flux themes present fluid and seamless transition animations among Always-On Display, Lock screen, and Home screen for improved visual consistency.
【Fine details and enhancments】
【Live Alerts】
•The new Live Alerts design is concentrated on efficient information visualization, positioned centrally for a balanced and streamlined display.
•The new Live Alerts interaction allows capsules to expand into detailed cards with a tap, providing efficient access to multiple live activities by swiping in the status bar.
•The new Live Alerts animation system brings a fluid, elastic design and dynamic blurring effects in real time, making card visuals smoother and more refined.
【Photo editing】
•The new globally reversible photo editing capability saves previous edit settings for seamless subsequent edits, ensuring uninterrupted creative flow.
【Floating Window and Split View】
•The new Floating Window gestures: you can swipe down a notification banner to open a floating window, swipe down to enlarge it, swipe up to close it, and swipe sideways to hide it.
•The resizable Split View windows allow you to drag the divider or tap the window for a more extensive display area.
【Notifications & Quick Settings】
•The new Split mode allows separate access to the notification drawer (top-left swipe) and Quick Settings (top-right swipe), with swipe left or right to switch.
•Quick Settings is revamped with a more visually appealing and consistent layout, along with refined and enhanced animations.
【Battery & charging】
•The new “Charging limit” feature halts charging at 80%, helping to extend battery life and minimize degradation.
•The new battery protection reminder activates the Charging limit feature if the device remains charging for too long, enhancing battery protection.
【Sounds & vibration】
•Holo Audio is enhanced for internet calls and meetings, providing a more comprehensive and immersive sound quality.
【Livephoto】
•Adds the Livephoto feature with additional focal lengths, portrait retouching, cover photo editing, and ProXDR effects for cover photos.
Realme notes that the “Early Access program is your ticket to experiencing the realme UI 6.0 update before the official release. However, please keep in mind that, as early software, there may be bugs, and some apps may not function correctly. We recommend not installing Early Access on your primary phone.”
The application channel for the program opened on November 05, 2024. Applications will be accepted in batches, and while not specified, only a limited number of seats are available.
How to apply for Realme UI 6.0 Early Access?
Update your device to the Realme UI version: RMX3851_14.0.1.614(EX01).
Enable Developer Mode (Settings > About device > Version > Version Number > Tap version number seven times).
Apply for Early Access via the Software Update Application channel by going to Settings > About device > Click on the “realme UI 5.0” banner at the top > Click on the three dots in the top right corner > Beta program > Early Access > Apply Now > Submit your details and complete the application.
