New Delhi: WhatsApp, the instant messaging platform, is reportedly introducing a significant update for Windows users. Meta is replacing the native WhatsApp app on Windows with a web-based version. It is now available on the Microsoft Store. This marks a shift from the standalone desktop app launched in 2021, which had previously eliminated the need to rely on WhatsApp’s browser version. However, the platform has dedicated apps for various platforms, including Android, iOS, iPadOS, macOS, wearOS and Windows. Following the new beta update, users will be automatically logged out of their existing WhatsApp accounts and will need to re-link them. Once set up, the WhatsApp interface on Windows will no longer resemble the traditional desktop app, but will closely mirror the WhatsApp Web experience. Meanwhile, the new beta app is based on Microsoft Edge WebView2 technology, which means the app will now function more like a web browser. Although it includes all features such as Channels, Status, and Communities, reports suggest that it may use more system resources compared to the old desktop app. After downgrading its Messenger app on Windows, Meta has now taken a similar approach with WhatsApp. Both platforms are being transitioned to a web-style experience on desktop. These development clearly hints that the Meta is shifting its focus toward web-based interfaces. Web-Based Shift Signals Meta’s New Desktop Strategy To ensure smooth performance of the new WhatsApp beta, users must have the latest version of Microsoft Edge installed. The updated interface drops traditional Windows design elements in favor of a layout that mirrors the WhatsApp Web experience. While the beta is currently limited to testers, a wider rollout is anticipated soon. It remains uncertain whether similar changes will extend to MacBooks. However, tech experts suggest Meta may soon bring this web-based interface to macOS as well. In the meantime, WhatsApp has rolled out a new iPad app featuring a split-screen interface, enhancing usability on larger tablet screens. WhatsApp Beta New Version For Windows: Uses More RAM Meta asserted that this change helps them update WhatsApp faster by using the same code for all platforms. However, a report from Windows Latest found that the new version uses about 30% more RAM than the older desktop app. This means regular users might notice it uses more system resources. 

Mumbai: Apple has recorded a strong 36 per cent year-on-year (YoY) growth in iPhone shipments in India during the first half of 2025 (H1 2025), industry data showed on Wednesday. The company also saw 13 per cent growth in its iPad segment — reflecting the growing demand for its latest-generation devices in the country, according to the data, a CyberMedia Research (CMR) report said. The impressive growth was driven by the popularity of Apple’s newest models. The iPhone 16 series emerged as the top performer, capturing 62 per cent of the iPhone market share in H1 2025, followed by the iPhone 15 series with 30 per cent share. The iPhone 16e and iPhone 14 series also contributed to the company’s sales, each holding around 4 per cent market share, the data showed. In the tablet segment, the iPad 11 series led the way with a 64 per cent share, while the iPad Air 2025 series followed with a 25 per cent share. Older models like the iPad Pro 2024, iPad Air 2024, and iPad 10 series held smaller shares in the market, according to the data. According to CMR estimates, Apple is expected to continue its strong performance in the second half of 2025, with a potential market share of 33 per cent in iPads and 11 per cent in iPhones. In a statement, Prabhu Ram, VP-Industry Research Group (IRG), CMR, said the company’s growth in India is being powered by strong demand, better affordability through financing schemes, a maturing ecosystem, and a deeper retail presence. He also highlighted that localised production and the expanding digital lifestyles of Indian consumers are further fueling its growth. “Apple’s growth trajectory in India continues to benefit from a confluence of factors: improved affordability through financing schemes, a maturing ecosystem, localised production, and deeper retail presence,” Ram stated. He added that the Indian market continues to offer significant room for expansion, especially in the premium device segment, where the brand remains firmly positioned to lead.

Google Pixel 10 And Pixel 10 Pro India Launch: The year 2025 is shaping up to be a blockbuster season for smartphones. Every major company is launching feature-packed devices in the Indian market. Samsung has just unveiled its Galaxy Fold 7 and Flip 7, while Vivo recently released the X200 FE. Now, with August approaching, the launch of the Pixel 10 series is right around the corner. Google has officially confirmed that it will debut on August 20 at the ‘Made by Google’ event. The Made by Google event is slated to begin at 10 AM PT which is 10:30 PM IST for those watching in India. Even a month ahead of its release, the Pixel 10 series is already generating significant global buzz. The series is expected to include four models — the Google Pixel 10, Pixel 10 Pro, Pixel 10 Pro XL, and Pixel 10 Pro Fold. Each device is set to receive notable upgrades, positioning them well for the competitive smartphone market in 2025. Moreover, a 13-second teaser released on Google’s website showcases the phone in a greyish colour variant, with a “10” animation that smoothly transitions into the camera island which strongly hints at the final design of the upcoming Pixel lineup. Google is officially showing the Pixel 10 already. Assuming this isn’t a 10 Pro, looks like 3 cameras on the base phone is the main thing that’s new. Otherwise… same design  pic.twitter.com/i3gF7Mshts — Marques Brownlee (@MKBHD) July 22, 2025 Google Pixel 10 Specifications (Expected) The device is expected to feature a 6.3-inch Full HD+ OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, protected by Gorilla Glass Victus 2. The screen could offer up to 3,000 nits of peak brightness, including 2,000 nits in high-brightness mode, ensuring excellent visibility even under harsh sunlight. Under the hood, the phone is likely to be powered by Google’s new Tensor G5 chipset. It may pack a 4,970mAh battery with support for 29W wired fast charging and 15W wireless charging. On the photography front, the Pixel 10 is tipped to sport a 48MP primary sensor — likely the same one used in the Pixel 9a. However, the ultra-wide-angle camera might see a downgrade from 48MP to 12MP. A new 10.8MP telephoto lens, possibly borrowed from the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, is also expected to be part of the setup. Google Pixel 10 Pro And Pixel 10 Pro XL Specifications (Expected) The Pixel 10 Pro is expected to feature a 6.3-inch 120Hz LTPO OLED display with Gorilla Glass Victus 2 protection and up to 3,000 nits of peak brightness. Meanwhile, the larger Pixel 10 Pro XL is tipped to offer a 6.8-inch 120Hz LTPO OLED display with the same peak brightness and durability. Both models are likely to sport a powerful triple rear camera setup, consisting of a 50MP primary sensor, a 48MP ultra-wide-angle lens, and a 48MP telephoto lens. On the front, a 42MP selfie camera is expected to handle selfies and quality video calls. The Pixel 10 Pro could be backed by a 4,870mAh battery with support for 29W wired fast charging, 15W wireless charging, and Qi2 wireless charging. On the other hand, the Pixel 10 Pro XL is likely to pack a larger 5,200mAh battery, supporting 39W wired fast charging and 15W wireless charging. Google Pixel 10 And Pixel 10 Pro Price In India (Expected) The Google Pixel 10 is expected to launch in India at a starting price of around Rs 79,999. The Pixel 10 Pro could be available for approximately Rs 90,600, while the Pixel 10 Pro XL may carry a price tag of Rs 1,17,700. As for the flagship model, the Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold is likely to debut at a starting price of Rs 1,79,999. 

Cybercrime Cases In India: Cybercrime in India has seen a steep rise of over 140 per cent in the past five years, with cases more than doubling between 2018 and 2022, the Ministry of Home Affairs said on Tuesday. According to the latest report published by the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), the number of cybercrime cases registered in 2018 was 27,248. This figure rose sharply to 65,893 in 2022, Minister of State (MoS) for Home Affairs Bandi Sanjay Kumar said in response to a question in the Lok Sabha. These crimes include offences carried out using communication devices such as mobile phones, computers, and internet networks. However, the NCRB clarified that specific data related to complaints lodged by elderly citizens is not maintained separately. The Ministry of Home Affairs has stated that ‘Police’ and ‘Public Order’ fall under the responsibility of State Governments as per the Constitution. Therefore, the prevention and investigation of cyber crimes lie primarily with the States and Union Territories. However, the Central Government supports their efforts through advisories and funding under different schemes aimed at enhancing the capacity of local law enforcement agencies. To strengthen India’s response to cybercrime, the Central Government has taken several steps. These include setting up the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C), launching the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal (https://cybercrime.gov.in), and starting the Citizen Financial Cyber Fraud Reporting and Management System (CFCFRMS) in 2021. According to the Ministry, over Rs 5,489 crore has been saved through timely intervention in more than 17.82 lakh financial fraud complaints reported under CFCFRMS. To further help citizens, a 24×7 helpline number ‘1930’ has also been operationalised. In addition, the government has blocked more than 9.42 lakh SIM cards and over 2.6 lakh mobile IMEIs involved in cybercrimes. Awareness campaigns have also been a major part of the government’s strategy, the Minister of State explained. From caller tunes in multiple languages warning against digital scams to ads in Metros, newspapers, and cinema halls, various channels have been used to educate the public. “Even the Prime Minister spoke about the dangers of ‘digital arrests’ in his ‘Mann Ki Baat’ address on October 27, 2024,” MoS Kumar stated. The Government has also involved social media influencers, Prasar Bharati, and events like Raahgiri and IPL to spread awareness. Campaigns have reached schools, railway stations, and even religious events like Kumbh Mela 2025.

Realme 15 Series India Launch: Chinese smartphone manufacturer Realme is set to launch its new Realme 15 series smartphones in India tomorrow, July 24. The lineup will include two models: the Realme 15 and the Realme 15 Pro. The company has revealed that the upcoming Realme 15 series has achieved an AnTuTu benchmark score of over 1.1 million. Earlier, Realme announced AI imaging tools like AI Edit Genie and AI Party for the Realme 15 Pro 5G smartphone in the country. Furthermore, the Realme 15 is expected to be available in three colour options: Silk Pink, Velvet Green, and Flowing Silver. The Realme 15 Pro is likely to come in Velvet Green and Flowing Silver, with Silk Purple replacing Silk Pink. However, key details, including prices and specifications, have been leaked online ahead of the official launch event. Realme 15 Specifications (Expected) The Realme 15 is expected to feature a 6.8-inch AMOLED display with a 1.5K resolution, an impressive peak brightness of 6,500 nits, and a smooth 144Hz refresh rate. It is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7300+ processor and paired with a massive 7,000mAh battery that supports 80W wired fast charging. On the photography front, the smartphone will sport a 50MP primary sensor with Optical Image Stabilisation (OIS) and an 8MP ultrawide lens on the rear, while the front will house a 50MP camera for selfies and video calls. The handset is likely to measure just 7.66mm in thickness and will come with IP68 and IP69 ratings for dust and water resistance. Realme 15 Pro Specifications (Expected) It is expected to feature a 6.8-inch AMOLED panel with the same 1.5K resolution and 144Hz refresh rate as the standard model. The phone will be powered by the Snapdragon 7 Gen 4 chipset, ensuring strong performance. Like its sibling, the device will pack a large 7,000mAh battery with support for 80W fast charging. On the photography front, the Realme 15 Pro is likely to offer a 50MP primary sensor with Optical Image Stabilisation (OIS) and a 50MP ultrawide lens, along with a 50MP front-facing camera for selfies and video calls. The Pro variant will have a slightly thicker body at 7.69mm but will retain the same IP68 and IP69 ratings for dust and water resistance. Realme 15 Series Price In India And Availability The top-end Realme 15 Pro is expected to be priced around Rs 39,999, while the base variant could start below Rs 30,000. Meanwhile, the standard Realme 15 is likely to be priced under Rs 25,000. Following the launch event scheduled for 7:00 PM IST on July 24, both smartphones will be available for purchase via Flipkart. 

Mumbai: Dixon Technologies’ net consolidated profit for the first quarter of the current financial year (Q1 FY26) stood at Rs 280 crore, down 39 per cent sequentially, according to its exchange filing on Tuesday. The company had posted a net profit of Rs 465 crore in the preceding quarter (Q4 FY25). However, the net profit of the homegrown company doubled on year-on-year (YoY) from Rs 139.70 crore that it reported in the corresponding quarter a year ago (Q1 FY25). The revenue from operation also saw a decent uptick both sequentially and year-on-year, reaching at Rs 12,835.66 crore from Rs 10,292.54 crore in the preceding quarter and Rs 6,579.8 crore in the same quarter a year earlier. The Mobile and Other EMS Division’s operating profit contribution increased to 82 per cent from 69 per cent in the previous year, and its share of total revenue increased to 91 per cent from 79 per cent in the first quarter of FY25. The company EBITDA rose to Rs 484 crore in the quarter, a surge of 89 per cent YoY. Meanwhile, the company saw a jump of Rs 2,497 crore in its total expenses to Rs 12,478.58 crore from Rs 9,981.92 crore in the January-March quarter (Q4 FY25). The shares of the company settled in the negative territory on Tuesday. The stock closed at Rs 16,110.0, down Rs 171 or 1.05 per cent. The company’s shares have recovered well after continuing to be under pressure, rising 21.3 per cent since plunging to a two-month low of Rs 13,280 in late June. The stock experienced bullish run from February 2023 to December 2024, yielding an impressive 559 per cent return and reaching an all-time high of Rs 19,148 per share. Post the rally, the shares experienced some correction due to profit booking, but they have since bounced back. The stock is currently 16 per cent below its peak at Rs 16,112.

New Delhi: The production of mobiles in India in value terms has increased by around 146 per cent from Rs 2,13,773 crore in FY 2020-21 to Rs 5,25,000 crore in FY 2024-25, the Parliament was informed on Tuesday. During the same period, exports of mobile phones in value terms has increased by around 775 per cent from Rs 22,870 crore in 2020-21 to Rs 2,00,000 crore in 2024-25. The government’s PLI and national industrial corridor schemes have incentivized domestic manufacturing, leading to increased production, job creation and a boost in exports, Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal, said in a written reply to a question in the Rajya Sabha. PLI Scheme has encouraged major smartphone companies to shift their production to India. As a result, India has become a major mobile phone manufacturing country. Due to the PLI scheme, there has also been a significant reduction in imports of raw materials in the pharma sector. Unique intermediate materials and bulk drugs are being manufactured in India, including Penicillin-G, and transfer of technology has happened in manufacturing of Medical Devices such as CT scan, MRI, etc.). The PLI Scheme for White Goods is aimed at developing a robust component ecosystem for the Air Conditioners and LED Lights industry in India, with the goal of making the country an integral part of global supply chains. Following its launch, India has begun local production of key components such as compressors, copper tubes, heat exchangers, motors, and control assemblies for air conditioners, as well as LED chip packaging, drivers, engines, light management systems, and metallized films for capacitors in the LED segment. This shift is significantly reducing import dependency and strengthening domestic manufacturing capabilities, the minister further stated. The government has also launched the Make in India 2.0 initiative, which presently focuses on 27 sectors implemented across various ministries/departments and state governments. He further stated that the government has approved 12 new project proposals under the National Industrial Corridor Development Programme (NICDP) with a total project cost of Rs 28,602 crore to facilitate manufacturing investments into the country. Besides, Atmanirbhar Bharat packages provide investment opportunities under National Infrastructure Pipeline and National Monetization Pipeline, India Industrial Land Bank, Industrial Park Rating System, soft launch of the National Single Window System etc., to promote manufacturing, the minister added.

BSNL New Plan: BSNL, a telecom giant, has launched a new prepaid recharge plan priced at Rs 249, offering lucrative features including calling, data, and OTT access at an affordable rate. The company shared details of the plan on its official X handle (formerly Twitter). What Does BSNL’s Rs 249 Plan Offer? The key highlight of this plan is its extended 45-day validity. While most private telecom operators offer just 28 days at a higher cost, BSNL stands out by providing more benefits at a lower price, making it a value-for-money option for budget-conscious users. BSNL Rs 249 Plan Features The Rs 249 BSNL plan comes packed with multiple benefits. It offers unlimited calling, including free local, STD, and roaming calls across all networks. Users also get 2GB of high-speed data daily, amounting to a total of 90GB over the plan’s 45-day validity. Adding further, the plan includes 100 free SMS per day. To enhance entertainment options, BSNL is providing free access to its own OTT app, BiTV, which features over 400 live TV channels. Jio Rs 249 Plan Features This plan comes with a validity of 28 days and offers 1GB of data per day, totaling 28GB. In addition to data benefits, users get unlimited voice calls and 100 SMS per day. The plan also includes complimentary access to Jio’s digital services, such as Jio Cinema, Jio TV, and Jio Cloud. BSNL Challenges Rivals Jio, Airtel And Vi With this plan, BSNL has once again positioned itself as a budget-friendly alternative to private players like Jio, Airtel, and Vi. While other companies offer short-validity plans at higher prices, BSNL is aiming to regain customer trust by offering long-term value at a lower cost. BSNL 5G May Arrive Soon BSNL has also hinted at the rollout of its 5G network. Although an official launch date hasn’t been announced yet, the company claims that high-speed 5G internet will be launched in India soon. This could make BSNL’s affordable and fast plans even more attractive. Meanwhile, BSNL has placed an order for an additional 19,000 sites to further expand and densify its 4G network, with built-in software upgrade capability to support 5G. This move comes after the successful deployment of approximately 90,000 4G sites across the country.

New Delhi: Driven by easing inventory challenges and renewed vendor activity, India’s smartphone market rebounded in the April-June period, growing 7 per cent year to reach 39 million units, according to a new report. The growth was primarily fuelled by fresh launches concentrated in the second quarter, following a cautious Q1 where vendors held back due to elevated inventory levels, according to Canalys (now part of Omdia). “Heightened competition beyond the top five is reshaping India’s smartphone landscape, as premium incumbents and design-led challengers refine their playbooks,” said Sanyam Chaurasia, Principal Analyst. Apple ranked sixth in Q2 2025, with the iPhone 16 family accounting for over 55 per cent of its shipments, while the iPhone 15 and 13 continued to drive demand across price tiers. According to the report, Vivo (excluding iQOO) led the market with 8.1 million units shipped and a 21 per cent market share. Samsung followed in second place with 6.2 million units and a 16 per cent market share. OPPO (excluding OnePlus) climbed to third with 5 million units, edging past Xiaomi, which also shipped 5 million. realme completed the top five with 3.6 million units. “With limited organic demand, India’s smartphone market in H2 2025 will hinge more on channel execution than product launches,” stated Chaurasia. Brands are actively locking inventory with distributors and retailers through channel incentive programs ahead of the upcoming festive season in India. These include high-value rewards – ranging from foreign trips to vehicle rewards – tied to performance during Monsoon sales, Durga Puja and Diwali cycles, the report said. Retail infrastructure upgrades are gaining pace, with improved booth setups, structured shelf placements and stricter quarterly targets for promoter engagement and in-store execution. At the same time, brands are doubling down on affordability by expanding long-tenure financing options, especially for mid- to high-end models.

Apple iOS 26 Beta Update: Apple is likely to roll out the public beta of its much-anticipated Apple iOS 26 sometime around July 23, according to a report by Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman. The update will give early testers a glimpse of the biggest revamp in iPhone software since iOS 7. It was first announced at WWDC earlier this year and has already gone through several rounds of developer testing. The iOS 26 update will give iPhone users a chance to try out new features and the refreshed interface before the official release. Meanwhile, the stable iOS 26 build is expected to roll out in September, alongside the launch of the iPhone 17 series. Those interested in accessing the new features can prepare to download and install the iOS 26 public beta on their eligible iPhones. Adding further, iOS 26 introduces a new Apple Games app designed to simplify game discovery and management. CarPlay is also getting enhanced with features like pinned conversations, widget support, and a compact view for calls. iOS 26 Public Beta Release: Is Your iPhone Eligible For Update? The iOS 26 update will be compatible with iPhone 11 and newer models this year. If you’re still using an iPhone Xs or Xr, it’s time to consider upgrading within the next 12 months, as these older models will no longer support the latest software. The iPhones eligible for the iOS 26 public beta include: iPhone 11, 11 Pro, and 11 Pro Max; iPhone 12, 12 Mini, 12 Pro, and 12 Pro Max; iPhone 13, 13 Mini, 13 Pro, and 13 Pro Max; iPhone 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, and 14 Pro Max; iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, and 15 Pro Max; and the upcoming iPhone 16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro, and 16 Pro Max. How To Download iOS 26 Public Beta Step 1: Open Settings on your iPhone, then go to General > Software Update. Step 2: Tap on Beta Updates to view available beta versions. Step 3: Select iOS 26 Public Beta, and your iPhone will begin checking for the update. Step 4: Tap Download and Install, then follow the on-screen instructions. Step 5: After the download completes, choose to install the update immediately or later as per your preference.