WhatsApp Update: No More Profile Picture Screenshots

0

In a significant update aimed at bolstering privacy and security, WhatsApp, owned by Meta, has implemented a policy preventing users from capturing screenshots of others’ profile pictures. This measure aligns with WhatsApp’s ongoing efforts to enhance user privacy and mirrors the functionality of its ‘View Once’ feature, which restricts recipients from screenshotting media shared in that format.

Unlike features such as ‘Last Seen’ or ‘Online’ status, the ability to enable or disable screenshotting is not configurable in settings; rather, it is a default setting implemented across the platform. When users attempt to capture a screenshot, they will receive a notification stating, “Can’t take a screenshot due to app restrictions,” while the individual whose photo is being captured will remain unaware of the attempt.

Presently, this additional layer of privacy is exclusively accessible to Android users, with no information regarding its availability on other platforms at this time.

Samsung Launches Galaxy A55 5G and A35 5G in India

0

Samsung unveiled its latest smartphones, the Galaxy A55 5G and Galaxy A35 5G, in India on Thursday. These sleek devices, available in three vibrant colors, will hit the market on March 14 via Live Commerce on Samsung.com and on March 18 through Samsung stores and online platforms.

Featuring top-notch specs like Gorilla Glass Victus+ protection, AI-enhanced camera capabilities, and advanced security with Samsung Knox Vault, these A series phones offer flagship-like features. Boasting a 6.6-inch FHD+ Super AMOLED display with a smooth 120Hz refresh rate, they ensure a stunning visual experience.

The Galaxy A55 5G sports a powerful 50MP main camera with OIS, along with a 12MP ultra-wide camera, while the Galaxy A35 5G boasts a similar 50MP main camera with OIS and an 8MP ultra-wide camera, both complemented by a 5MP macro lens. For selfies, the A55 5G boasts a 32MP front camera, while the A35 5G comes with a 13MP front shooter. With a robust 5000mAh battery and 25W fast charging, these devices promise long-lasting performance. Running on Android 14 with One UI 6.1, they offer a seamless user experience.

SpaceX Launches 46 Satellites in Record Time

0

SpaceX made headlines on Monday with the successful launch of 46 Starlink internet satellites, setting a new record for efficiency in low-Earth orbit deployment. The impressive feat saw two sets of satellites launched within a span of just six hours.

The launches took place from Space Launch Complex 40 (SLC-40) at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida, showcasing the capabilities of SpaceX’s reusable Falcon 9 rocket. The first batch of 23 satellites took off at 4:35 am India time, marking another milestone for the company’s Falcon 9 booster, which completed its 11th flight.

Following liftoff, the Falcon 9’s first stage completed a flawless vertical landing on the SpaceX drone ship “Just Read the Instructions” in the Atlantic Ocean. An hour later, SpaceX confirmed the successful deployment of the initial 23 Starlink satellites.

The second launch, comprising another 23 Starlink satellites, occurred at 9:39 am India time. This marked the 17th flight for the first stage booster, further demonstrating SpaceX’s commitment to reusability in space missions.

With over 5,000 operational Starlink satellites already in orbit and approval for up to 12,000, SpaceX continues to expand its global internet coverage. Last week’s launch adds to the company’s ambitious plans for the Starlink constellation, aimed at providing high-speed internet access worldwide.

These achievements contribute to SpaceX’s prolific launch schedule, with 22 orbital missions completed this year alone. Looking ahead, the company aims for 144 launches in 2024, underscoring its position as a leader in the space industry.

Introducing V30 Series: Vivo’s Latest Innovation in India

0

Vivo expands its V-Series lineup in India with the introduction of the V30 series, featuring the V30 Pro and V30 smartphones. The V30 Pro offers two stunning color choices, while the V30 comes in three vibrant options, catering to diverse consumer preferences. Priced competitively, the V30 series promises cutting-edge camera technology and sleek design, setting new benchmarks in the smartphone market.

The V30 Pro stands out with its Andaman Blue and Classic Black variants, boasting impressive configurations of 8GB+256GB and 12GB+512GB. Meanwhile, the V30 offers versatility with Andaman Blue, Peacock Green, and Classic Black options, accompanied by various storage combinations to suit different user needs.

Scheduled for release on March 14, the V30 series will be available for purchase through Flipkart, vivo India e-store, and authorized retail outlets nationwide. Highlighting the devices’ slim profile and robust 5000mAh battery, vivo emphasizes its commitment to delivering exceptional user experiences.

Notably, the V30 Pro showcases a groundbreaking collaboration with ZEISS, enhancing its imaging capabilities with three rear cameras, including a 50MP VCS main camera. Both models feature advanced camera functionalities, enabling high-quality 4K video recording from both front and rear cameras.

Under the hood, the V30 Pro is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 8200 SoC processor, while the V30 boasts the Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 processor, ensuring smooth performance and efficiency. Operating on FunTouch OS 14, vivo assures consumers of timely software updates, promising three generations of Android updates and four years of security support for both devices.

Emoji Madness: Instagram Latest Game Takes Users by Storm

Did you hear the news? Instagram has introduced a fun new Emoji Game, delighting users across the platform. Players are tasked with keeping an emoji airborne by bouncing it off a paddle at the screen’s bottom.

This latest addition has sparked a wave of enthusiasm among Instagram’s community. Users are eagerly sharing their discoveries and high scores, igniting discussions on forums worldwide.

To join the fun, simply send an emoji in a direct message on Instagram and tap on it to begin playing. As you progress, the game speeds up, presenting a thrilling challenge. Keep an eye out for surprises, like the potato emoji transforming into French fries with rapid bouncing!

Videos showcasing gameplay are circulating widely online, inviting everyone to join in on the excitement. Don’t miss out—dive into the game and see how high you can score!

NASA: New Astronaut Team Enroute to International Space Station

0

Mission Lift-off: Crew-8’s Journey Begins

NASA and SpaceX’s much-anticipated Crew-8 mission commenced its journey to the International Space Station (ISS) on Monday. The launch took place at 10:53 p.m. EST Sunday (9:23 a.m. Monday IST) from Launch Complex 39A at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Originally scheduled for Sunday, the launch was delayed due to unfavorable conditions in the rocket’s flight path.

Crew Composition: A Mix of Experience and Novice

The Crew-8 mission comprises NASA astronauts Matthew Dominick, Michael Barratt, and Jeanette Epps, along with Roscosmos cosmonaut Alexander Grebenkin. Notably, this marks the first spaceflight for Epps, Dominick, and Grebenkin, while Barratt is embarking on his third stint on the ISS.

Celebration of Liftoff: SpaceX and NASA’s Milestone

With liftoff confirmed, SpaceX and NASA celebrated the milestone, noting the mix of first-time fliers and seasoned veterans on their way to the ISS. The Crew Dragon spacecraft is anticipated to dock at the ISS around 3 a.m. on Tuesday (1:30 p.m. IST).

Scientific Endeavors: Advancing Space Exploration

Once aboard the orbiting laboratory, the Crew-8 team will engage in a wide array of activities, including conducting over 200 scientific experiments and technology demonstrations. These experiments aim to advance human exploration beyond low-Earth orbit and yield benefits for humanity on Earth.

Continuation of Crewed Missions: NASA’s Commercial Crew Program

This mission represents the eighth rotational trip to the ISS under NASA’s Commercial Crew Program. SpaceX, led by billionaire Elon Musk, has been a key partner in providing astronaut launch services for NASA since 2020. Notably, the Crew Dragon Endeavour spacecraft, which will transport Crew-8, has an impressive record, having completed four previous missions, including the historic Demo-2 flight in 2020.

Ongoing Presence: Crew-7’s Return and Crew-8’s Arrival

As Crew-7 currently resides on the ISS, Crew-8’s arrival signals the continuation of crewed missions to the space station. Moreover, Crew-7 is expected to return to Earth in the coming week, further highlighting the dynamic nature of space exploration and human presence in space.

Nothing Announces Manufacturing of Phone (2a) in India

0

London-based consumer tech brand, Nothing, has announced its latest smartphone, Phone (2a), will be manufactured in India. This move aims to leverage the country’s rich manufacturing ecosystem, invest in the local economy, and create job opportunities.

The Phone (2a) is designed for the Indian market, focusing on delivering an optimal daily smartphone experience while incorporating Nothing’s design innovation, expertise, and craftsmanship. It promises to include beloved features from Phone (2), ensuring a significant upgrade compared to Phone (1).

Nothing had previously established its first Global exclusive service center in Bengaluru last year, further cementing its presence in India’s tech landscape.

The launch event for Phone (2a) is scheduled for March 5, with a live-streamed presentation from an in-person gathering in Delhi. Additionally, Bollywood actor Ranveer Singh has been announced as the brand face for Nothing’s smartphones.

The Phone (2a) is set to feature a custom Dimensity 7200 Pro processor co-engineered with MediaTek, promising optimal performance and power consumption.

Since its inception in 2020, Nothing has introduced three audio products, two smartphones, and launched a sub-brand, CMF by Nothing, as of September last year.

Info Edge Mobile Apps Removed from Google Play Store Amid Fee Dispute

0

Info Edge (India) Ltd revealed on Saturday that some of its mobile apps, like naukri.com and 99 acres.com, were taken off the Google Play Store. This happened after Google removed various apps due to a disagreement over service fees. Google stated that several companies, including prominent ones, hadn’t paid the necessary fees despite benefiting from the platform.

Info Edge expressed surprise at Google’s sudden action without prior notice. They clarified that users who already have the apps installed can still use them. Also, those accessing the apps via other platforms like the Apple App Store or the web aren’t affected. Info Edge is now reviewing the situation and working with Google to get its apps back on the Play Store.

The dispute arose because Google introduced a fee of 11-26% on in-app payments following a directive from the Competition Commission of India (CCI). Google removed apps that didn’t comply after the Supreme Court didn’t grant interim relief. Despite Info Edge’s compliance with Google’s policies, its apps were removed.

Info Edge’s founder emphasized the need for a strategic response to such challenges. He suggested creating an App Store or Play Store as part of Digital Public Infrastructure, similar to UPI and ONDC. This move, he believes, would ensure better compliance from Indian companies and offer a sustainable solution to such disputes.

Google Collaborates with Fact Checkers to Combat Election Misinformation

0

Google Partners with Fact Checkers for Election Misinformation Detection

Google announces collaboration with fact checkers in India to detect online misinformation, including deepfakes, ahead of general elections. This initiative aims to create a common repository for news publishers to combat misinformation during the election period.

Project Shakti: Combating Misinformation Collaboratively

The project, named Shakti, involves the Shakti India Election Fact-Checking Collective, comprising news publishers and fact checkers. They will work together to detect and counter online misinformation, focusing on early detection and dissemination of fact-checks in multiple Indian languages and formats.

Aiming for Timely Intervention

The collaborative platform aims to provide timely alerts and resources to combat viral misinformation and deepfakes related to the elections. This effort seeks to save crucial time by connecting independent fact checkers and Indian language publishers, ensuring wider dissemination of fact-checks across diverse audiences.

Training and Support for Fact-Checkers

In addition to facilitating collaboration, the project offers training in advanced fact-checking methodologies and deepfake detection. It equips news organizations and fact-checkers with essential skills and tools, including the Fact Check Explorer and Google’s latest verification resources.

Expanding Reach and Impact

The Fact-Checking Collective prioritizes publishers producing original news in various Indian languages. With its launch, the initiative aims to scale efforts and onboard new partners to reach most parts of the country, bolstering the fact-checking ecosystem.

Google’s Commitment to Combat Misinformation

Google reaffirms its commitment to combating misinformation globally and acknowledges the essential role of news publishers, journalists, and fact-checkers in ensuring informed participation in democratic processes. This collaboration builds on previous initiatives and investments in fact-checking capabilities.

Empowering the Media Ecosystem

Through projects like the GNI India Training Network and the Global Fact Check Fund, Google continues to empower journalists and media organizations with digital tools and skills. The aim is to enhance the quality and impact of fact-checking content and strengthen the media ecosystem.

Addressing a Growing Challenge

The proliferation of misinformation poses a significant challenge, particularly in the context of elections. The Shakti project represents a crucial intervention to safeguard democratic processes by fostering collaboration and resilience against misinformation.

Industry Voices on Misinformation Combat

Leaders in the media industry emphasize the importance of collective action in combating misinformation. They stress the need for collaboration between fact-checkers and news publishers to counter the spread of mis- and misinformation effectively.

WhatsApp Expands Search Capabilities with New Search Chats by Date Feature

0

WhatsApp, owned by Meta, has introduced a convenient new feature allowing users to search chats by date on Android devices. Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg shared the announcement, highlighting the enhanced functionality now available for users.

With the new search by date feature, navigating through WhatsApp chats becomes more efficient than ever. Users can easily select a specific date and instantly access messages sent from that day onward. This feature is currently rolling out on Android devices, complementing its existing availability on iOS, Mac desktop, and WhatsApp Web.

To utilize the search by date feature, users simply need to enter any chat, tap on the contact or group name at the top, and select the “Search” option. From there, they can choose the desired date to jump to messages sent on that day, streamlining the chat browsing experience.

Additionally, WhatsApp recently introduced support for new text formatting options, including bulleted lists, numbered lists, block quotes, and inline code. These features aim to enhance communication by providing users with diverse formatting tools to express themselves effectively.

Furthermore, reports suggest that WhatsApp is working on a new feature called the ‘favourite contacts filter,’ which will enable users to prioritize conversations and exercise greater control over their messaging experience. This upcoming addition reflects WhatsApp’s ongoing efforts to continually improve its platform and meet the evolving needs of its user base.