Tag: news

  • Google Pixel 11: Key Features and Missing MTE Support

    Google launched the Pixel 11 series in mid-August. The lineup has four phones. All of them use the Tensor G6 chip. Launch prices rose from the previous generation. Memory and storage shortages may help explain that jump.

    GrapheneOS will not arrive on these phones, according to its developers. The GrapheneOS Foundation says Google left out a major security feature. The group believes the cut was meant to save money. That claim has not been confirmed by Google.

    The missing feature is ARM Memory Tagging Extension, or MTE. In a Mastodon post, the foundation said it built only a partial GrapheneOS port after one week of work. It could not finish the port. The Pixel 11, Pixel 11 Pro, Pixel 11 Pro XL, and Pixel 11 Pro Fold lack MTE support in software and firmware. Hardware support is also unlikely, the group said.

    Earlier Pixels shipped with this protection. The Pixel 8, Pixel 9, and Pixel 10 series included MTE. GrapheneOS uses ARM hardware MTE across its base system, kernel, and standard processes. On supported devices, the feature is only turned off temporarily for a few device-specific tasks.

    MTE aims to block many memory bugs. Those bugs often sit behind remote and local exploits. GrapheneOS added the technology to its hardened_malloc project and began using it across the system in October 2023. Pixel phones did not turn it on by default at first. Later, Android 16’s Advanced Protection Mode enabled ARM MTE for selected processes.

    The foundation has not made a final product plan. It may skip the Pixel 11 series. It could then focus on upcoming Motorola devices instead. For now, it advises buyers who want GrapheneOS to stay with Pixel 8, Pixel 9, or Pixel 10 phones.

    Google has not issued a detailed public reply on MTE in Pixel 11. Official confirmation of hardware support is still missing. Buyers who want the stock Pixel software are unaffected by the GrapheneOS decision. Users who rely on that hardened system will need another device.

  • Drone Didi: Training Women Pilots for Rural Empowerment

    In a major step to empower women in Goa, the Department of Information Technology, Electronics and Communications seeks approval for the Drone Didi training scheme. This statewide program aims to train 100 women every year. Over the next three years, it plans to certify 300 female drone pilots. The initiative forms part of a wider plan to bring advanced technology into rural livelihoods. It also supports women-led entrepreneurship.

    Meanwhile, the Goa Information Technology Development Corporation worked with Garuda Aerospace. Together they completed a five-day drone training workshop for 12 women. This workshop marks an important step in using drone technology to raise rural incomes. It also builds self-reliance in local communities. Participants received thorough hands-on training. The sessions covered flight simulation, assembly, maintenance and safety protocols.

    One participant, Anu Morajkar, spoke about her experience. Through her self-help group she learned about the Drone Didi program. She felt eager to join it. Earlier she believed drones served only photography and videography. However, this opportunity showed her their wider uses. Training started with theoretical lessons on aerodynamics. Then it moved to practical simulations and hands-on controls.

    Minister Rohan Khaunte underlined the government’s commitment. He said the goal reaches beyond simply teaching women to fly drones. Instead the program equips them with skills and confidence. As a result they can create their own livelihoods and take part in the changing economy. Furthermore he described the scheme as part of a larger vision. It seeks a digitally empowered Goa. There women’s strength, technology and entrepreneurship come together. This process drives inclusive economic growth.

    Another participant, Subhi Satardekar, shared her views. She explained that the workshop taught them a great deal. Now they can operate drones independently for photography, events or precision services. In addition the training greatly raised their confidence to begin their own businesses. The initiative arrives at a key moment. It challenges traditional gender roles. At the same time it urges women to adopt technology.

  • DJI Osmo 360 II: 8K Video & AI Features Revolutionize 360 Photography

    DJI Osmo 360 II Launched With 8K Video and AI Night Mode

    DJI has launched the Osmo 360 II in China. The new panoramic action camera succeeds the original Osmo 360. It targets users who want high-resolution 360-degree video and improved low-light performance.

    The Osmo 360 II uses two 1/1.1-inch square CMOS sensors. Both sensors feature an f/1.9 aperture. DJI says the camera can record native 8K panoramic video at up to 60fps.

    DJI Osmo 360 II Price and Availability

    The DJI Osmo 360 II starts at CNY 3,299 in China. This is roughly Rs. 46,700. The Standard Combo includes the camera, a 2,150mAh battery, two lens protectors and a camera pouch.

    DJI has also launched an Adventure Combo. It costs CNY 3,999, or around Rs. 56,600. It includes three batteries, a multifunctional battery case, a dual-direction quick-release adapter and a 1.2m invisible selfie stick.

    The company has not yet announced the India price or launch date.

    DJI Osmo 360 II Camera Features

    The camera can record 8K panoramic video at up to 60fps. It can also capture 6K video at up to 60fps. In addition, the camera supports 10-bit colour recording across its video modes.

    DJI claims up to 14.5 stops of dynamic range. This is designed to preserve more detail in bright and dark areas. The camera also supports D-Log M for users who want greater control during colour grading.

    For still images, the Osmo 360 II can capture 120-megapixel panoramic photographs. Images can reach a resolution of 15,520 x 7,760 pixels.

    AI Super Night 2.0 and Subject Tracking

    The Osmo 360 II introduces AI Super Night 2.0. The feature works with the f/1.9 aperture to improve video quality in low-light conditions.

    The camera also supports AI-powered subject tracking. It can identify and follow a subject while keeping it near the centre of the frame. However, this feature works in panoramic tracking mode at up to 4K resolution.

    Storage, Battery and Connectivity

    The camera comes with 128GB of built-in storage. Users can also add a microSD card with up to 1TB capacity.

    For connectivity, the Osmo 360 II supports Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.4. It also uses a USB Type-C port. Furthermore, DJI’s OsmoAudio technology allows direct connections with compatible DJI microphone transmitters.

    The camera has an IP68 rating. DJI says it can operate underwater at depths of up to 10 metres without an additional case.

    The 2,150mAh battery can provide up to 100 minutes of 8K/30fps panoramic recording, according to DJI. The camera can also operate in temperatures ranging from -20 degrees Celsius to 45 degrees Celsius.

    Overall, the Osmo 360 II brings higher-resolution 360-degree recording, improved dynamic range and new AI-powered features. However, buyers in India will have to wait for official pricing and availability details.

  • Google Fitbit Air Launch in India: What to Expect

    Google will launch the Fitbit Air in India this year. The company made the announcement on Thursday. The device is Google’s first fitness tracker without a screen. It will arrive in October 2026.

    The news came during a Made by Google event briefing. Google had just introduced its latest smartphones and wearables in the country. These included the Pixel 11 series, the Pixel Watch 5, and the Pixel Tag, its first Bluetooth tracker.

    Google did not share the exact launch date, pricing, colour options, or retail details for India. However, the company showcased the Fitbit Air with a pink Performance Loop band. This suggests the pink option will be available at launch.

    The tracker had already appeared on Amazon India. Third-party sellers listed it at prices between Rs 17,380 and Rs 18,490. Globally, Google launched the Fitbit Air in May at a starting price of 99.99 dollars, or roughly Rs 9,400. International buyers also receive a three-month trial of Google Health Premium and access to Google Health Coach tools.

    The Fitbit Air comes with three types of interchangeable bands. These are the Performance Loop Band, the Active Band, and the Elevated Modern Band. Each style is offered in different colours.

    Google designed the tracker without a screen so users can wear it all day without constant notifications. The device still provides continuous health tracking. It monitors heart rate around the clock and tracks heart rhythm with AFib alerts. It also measures blood oxygen levels through an SpO2 sensor, resting heart rate, heart rate variability, and sleep patterns.

    Further details about the Indian launch, including official pricing and availability, are expected closer to October.

  • 50 New BGMI Redeem Codes for 5th Anniversary

    Krafton India has released 50 new BGMI redeem codes. The codes mark the rollout of the game’s 5th Anniversary Edition 4.5 update. Players can use them to claim limited-time in-game rewards such as the Mecha Ant Backpack and other cosmetic items.

    These rewards do not affect gameplay. Instead, they add visual customisation options. The codes remain valid until September 25. Players must redeem them only on BGMI’s official website.

    List of BGMI Redeem Codes

    Here are the 50 codes released by Krafton India:

    • LJZBZWMF36K3UBCS
    • LJZCZBEA8UQBV8X5
    • LJZDZEUDPWSW9DGF
    • LJZEZNX8RMGT87PG
    • LJZFZBAVJM46RSCR
    • LJZGZNCRD7G5G5X5
    • LJZHZDC8DFFQ98UT
    • LJZIZSRHRPU5PCAE
    • LJZJZ67JFJ9R56CJ
    • LJZKZ398SU47HMC6
    • LJZLZ6XESVG5DQKR
    • LJZMZJDDBFUBGJA4
    • LJZNZ9U46RRU48SE
    • LJZOZ569WKDUV56U
    • LJZPZDQC84QJPDER
    • LJZQZDSFK5J5TPB7
    • LJZRZCBUBQFV9AMP
    • LJZVZRMNVNBP8A93
    • LJZTZTMQGRQA33EG
    • LJZUZARWRP8HGAE6
    • LJZBAZXDEJMA7F3R
    • LJZBBZATJGD7XNXQ
    • LJZBCZAUENBTX7A8
    • LJZBDZ66JAUAHQVJ
    • LJZBEZC47E8XK4XD
    • LJZBFZXFG7CFGEHH
    • LJZBGZWCVFNQNVE3
    • LJZBHZAXQD96HHMM
    • LJZBIZVPUUGCP43G
    • LJZBJZFT9B7KBWMS
    • LJZBKZB7R7UVW7DV
    • LJZBLZ7WU3S7F3WE
    • LJZBMZTMX4H374U7
    • LJZBNZSKVTTRA4U4
    • LJZBOZR6C6CBUHQN
    • LJZBPZQ3J9WQRJP5
    • LJZBQZ6CWN5WKTNX
    • LJZBRZ4J3PXJ3SR3
    • LJZBVZW4NXF8Q7SP
    • LJZBTZ4TFQBKE5CF
    • LJZBUZBUAQS8NXRU
    • LJZCAZ8MS67X89RG
    • LJZCBZGF848NX8KB
    • LJZCCZFSABRFJ54S
    • LJZCDZQBE3P9CA6W
    • LJZCEZQTXTXJT48K
    • LJZCFZUFMU7CQPXH
    • LJZCGZJT8KT47XP6
    • LJZCHZHA7RNRXVHB
    • LJZCIZXNJD9D6Q48

    The developer has not specified which code gives which reward. Players will receive one of the available items when a code works successfully.

    How to Redeem the Codes

    Players cannot enter the codes inside the game. They must use the official BGMI Redeem Centre instead. Follow these steps:

    1. Visit the BGMI Redeem Centre at www.battlegroundsmobileindia.com/redeem.
    2. Enter your User ID.
    3. Type one of the codes listed above.
    4. Enter the verification code and click Redeem.
    5. A success message will appear if the code works. An expiry message will appear if it does not.
    6. The reward will arrive in your in-game mail.

    Important Points to Remember

    Each code can be used by a maximum of 10 players. Redemptions work on a first-come, first-served basis. Players may redeem only one code per day. Each code works only once per account.

    Guest accounts cannot redeem these codes. Expired or fully claimed codes will show an expiry notification. Players must collect rewards from in-game mail within 30 days. After that period, the mail expires and the items are lost.

    These limited-time codes give BGMI players a chance to claim free cosmetic rewards during the 5th anniversary celebrations.

  • Grand Theft Auto 6 Pre-Order: Choose Between Standard and Ultimate Editions

    Grand Theft Auto 6 is now available for pre-order. Rockstar Games offers two versions: the Standard edition and the Ultimate edition. The Standard edition costs 80 dollars. The Ultimate edition is priced at 100 dollars and includes a range of extra in-game benefits.

    According to Take-Two Interactive, parent company of Rockstar Games, more players are choosing the higher-priced Ultimate edition. Take-Two CEO Strauss Zelnick spoke about the strong demand in a recent interview with CNBC.

    Zelnick said GTA 6 pre-orders are performing much better than expected. During the company’s first-quarter earnings call, he described the start of pre-orders as exceptional. He later told analysts that the numbers are unprecedented.

    At the same time, Zelnick tried to keep expectations in check. He noted that Rockstar has worked hard to innovate. He believes the final game will exceed the high anticipation surrounding it.

    When discussing pricing, Zelnick observed that players are buying both editions. However, demand is skewing toward the 99.99-dollar Ultimate version. He suggested this trend reflects the fact that the most dedicated fans are placing pre-orders first.

    The Ultimate edition unlocks additional vehicles, outfits, weapons and other items throughout the main story. New content appears after each story chapter. Rockstar has also reserved certain in-game experiences and areas exclusively for Ultimate edition owners.

    Zelnick also commented on an upcoming extended look at the game. Grand Theft Auto 6: An Extended Look will premiere exclusively on Netflix on August 27. It will arrive six hours before the same video becomes available on YouTube. Zelnick declined to share specific details but said the presentation is worth watching.

    Grand Theft Auto 6 is scheduled to launch on November 19, 2026, for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S. The open-world title returns to the Vice City setting. It features dual protagonists, Lucia and Jason, a couple drawn into crime after a heist goes wrong. Industry observers expect the game to become the biggest entertainment launch of all time.

  • Boltt Launches Ace 5G and Evo Smartphones in India

    Boltt to Launch First Smartphones in India on August 25

    Boltt will enter the Indian smartphone market on August 25. The company will introduce two models — the Ace 5G and the Evo. Both phones will focus on camera quality and Google AI features.

    The Ace 5G will sit at the top of the range. The Evo will take the more affordable position. Boltt has already shared design details, colour options, and sales plans for both devices.

    Camera Setup

    The Ace 5G will carry a 64-megapixel main rear camera with an f/1.8 aperture. The Evo will use a 50-megapixel main sensor. Both phones will feature an 8-megapixel front camera with Real Tone support for more natural skin tones.

    Boltt says both models will use Google AI imaging tools. These include Face Unblur for sharper selfies and AI-powered Night Mode for low-light shots. Scene optimisation will automatically adjust settings for different environments.

    The phones will also support AI Portraits. This feature uses hardware-level AI bokeh and depth mapping to create natural background blur. Additional AI tools will enhance selfies and improve overall image processing.

    Google Gemini Features

    Google Gemini will power several on-device AI tools. Users will get Circle to Search and Google Lens. These features will let people identify objects, translate text, search for products, and find information without leaving the current app.

    Design and Availability

    The Ace 5G will have a rectangular camera module with three rear sensors and an LED flash. The Evo will use a square module with two rear cameras and a flash. Both phones will feature flat displays with a centred hole-punch for the front camera.

    The Ace 5G will come in red and measure 9.49mm thick. The Evo will arrive in a light blue shade. Both models will have flat frames with controls placed on the right side.

    Boltt will launch the Ace 5G and Evo in India on August 25 at 12pm IST. The phones will go on sale exclusively through Flipkart.

  • Introducing Motorola Moto Pad 70: Specs & Pricing in India

    Motorola has launched the moto pad 70 in India. The company expands its tablet range with this 5G-enabled model. It features a 12.1-inch 2.5K display, a MediaTek Dimensity 6400 processor, and a 10,200mAh battery. Moreover, the tablet includes the moto pen in the box and supports AI-powered writing tools.

    The moto pad 70 is available in an 8GB RAM and 256GB storage configuration. Its launch price stands at Rs. 33,999. An instant bank discount of up to Rs. 4,000 brings the effective price down to Rs. 29,999. In addition, the tablet supports expandable storage of up to 2TB through a microSD card.

    Sales begin in India on August 15. Buyers can purchase it through Flipkart, Motorola.in, and leading retail stores. The tablet is offered in the PANTONE Titan Sea Angel colour.

    A 12.1-inch 2.5K LCD display forms the main screen. It delivers a 2560 x 1600 resolution and a 90Hz refresh rate. Peak brightness reaches 800 nits in High Brightness Mode. The panel covers 96 percent of the DCI-P3 colour gamut and carries TÜV Rheinland certification.

    The MediaTek Dimensity 6400 octa-core processor powers the device. It supports 5G connectivity. The tablet runs Android 16 out of the box. Motorola promises an upgrade to Android 17 along with three years of security updates.

    For productivity, the company includes the moto pen. AI Writing Tools and AI Notes help users write, organise, and summarise content. The tablet also supports Circle to Search with Google and Google Gemini.

    The Wi-Fi version measures 6.29 mm in thickness and weighs 530 grams. The 5G version is slightly thicker at 6.49 mm. An all-metal body houses the device. Quad speakers tuned by Dolby Atmos deliver audio.

    A 10,200mAh battery supports extended use and works with TurboPower charging. The camera setup includes a 13-megapixel autofocus rear sensor and an 8-megapixel front camera. Connectivity options cover Bluetooth 5.2, Wi-Fi 5, and a USB Type-C port.

    Motorola also offers a moto folio keyboard as an optional accessory. This addition allows the tablet to support typing and other productivity tasks more effectively.

  • Understanding 5.5G: The Transition from 5G to 5G-Advanced

    The next stage of mobile connectivity has already begun. Telecom companies are rolling out 5.5G networks even though full 6G remains years away. Industry experts also call this technology 5G-Advanced or 5G-A. It delivers higher speeds, lower latency, stronger reliability, and better efficiency than today’s standard 5G.

    5.5G builds directly on existing 5G standards through 3GPP Release 18. It does not require a complete network rebuild. Instead, it adds smarter network control and greater use of artificial intelligence. In addition, it improves spectrum efficiency and supports more advanced applications. These include extended reality, industrial automation, connected vehicles, and large-scale Internet of Things systems.

    Unlike the shift from 4G to 5G, users do not need an entirely new network architecture. The upgrade remains incremental from the customer’s point of view. As a result, operators can introduce the technology more smoothly across their current infrastructure.

    Data speeds and network responsiveness improve significantly with 5.5G. However, actual performance still depends on several factors. Carrier deployment choices, available spectrum, device compatibility, and local network conditions all influence the final experience.

    Only smartphones with compatible modem hardware and proper software support can access the full set of 5.5G features. Some recent flagship models already carry 5.5G or 5G-Advanced readiness. Support ultimately rests on three elements: the device’s modem, available software updates, and the operator’s network capabilities.

    Existing 5G smartphones will continue to function normally on current 5G networks. Nevertheless, most older devices cannot unlock every 5.5G advantage. They simply lack the required modem capabilities or software support.

    Several telecom operators have already launched commercial 5G-Advanced services in selected markets. Wider expansion is expected throughout 2026 and beyond. Availability will continue to vary by country and by carrier.

    People who already own a recent flagship phone may receive 5.5G support through software updates if the hardware allows it. Anyone planning to buy a premium smartphone in 2026 should consider a 5.5G-ready model. This choice will help ensure better compatibility as operators expand next-generation networks.

  • OnePlus Shifts to ColorOS: Impact on Software Updates

    OnePlus has closed its operations in several international markets. The company confirmed it will keep providing software and security support for existing devices.

    As part of this change, OnePlus will replace OxygenOS with Oppo’s ColorOS. The switch begins with the Android 17 update. Therefore, future major system upgrades on supported phones will arrive as ColorOS 17.

    OnePlus’ official software policy limits Android 17 to a smaller group of devices. Many older mid-range and premium models will reach the end of their major update cycle this year.

    The OnePlus 10 series will not receive ColorOS 17. Models such as the OnePlus 10 Pro, OnePlus 10T, and OnePlus 10R launched with Android 12. As a result, they fall outside the new update window.

    The OnePlus 11R also ends its major software support at OxygenOS 16, which is based on Android 16. This phone originally shipped with Android 13.

    Several Nord series devices face the same situation. The OnePlus Nord 3 received Android 16 with OxygenOS 16 as its final major upgrade. It first launched with Android 13.

    The OnePlus Nord CE 4 and OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite follow a similar path. Both arrived in 2024 with Android 14. They now run OxygenOS 16 on Android 16 as their last major operating system update. Consequently, neither will move to ColorOS 17.

    Among tablets, the OnePlus Pad and OnePlus Pad Go are also expected to miss the Android 17 update.

    Newer flagships will receive the software. Devices starting from the OnePlus 11 series qualify for ColorOS 17. Models such as the OnePlus Nord 4 and Nord 5 will also gain access.

    OnePlus made these changes while exiting markets that include the United States, Canada, and Europe. The company continues to support current owners through remaining software and security updates. Meanwhile, the shift to ColorOS marks a clear change in its long-term software strategy.