Turn Off Microphone Access On Android: Have you ever noticed that after discussing a product, advertisements for it suddenly start appearing on your smartphone screen—whether you’re browsing social media or using other social media apps? This isn’t just coincidence right? Many users are surprised to learn that their devices might actually be listening to their conversations, and targeted ads are often a result of this passive data collection. This usually happens more on Android phones, which are the most widely used smartphones in the world.  Let me solve this puzzle for you. The major reason behind this phenomenon is a Google feature that your phone’s microphone on to listen for voice commands. So, If this setting is turned on your smartphone, your device might pick up parts of your conversations and use that information to show you targeted ads—raising real concerns about your privacy. Beware! Before Granting App Permissions:  Many users tend to grant app permissions—such as access to the microphone, contacts, location, or camera—without fully evaluating the potential privacy risks. While certain permissions are necessary for core app functions, others may be excessive and open the door to data misuse by developers. It is crucial to assess each permission request and only allow access when it is clearly justified. Adding further, most Android devices come with Google Voice Assistant enabled by default, keeping the microphone active in the background. Fortunately, users can enhance their privacy by manually adjusting these settings. So, by disabling voice assistant features can help minimize unintended data collection and better protect sensitive, personal conversations. How To Disable Microphone Access On Your Smartphone Step 1: Open Settings on your Android device and tap on the Google option. Step 2: Select ‘Manage your Google Account.’ Step 3: Go to the ‘Data & Privacy’ tab. Step 4: Scroll down and tap on ‘Web & App Activity.’ Step 5: Find ‘Voice & Audio Activity’ and uncheck the box to disable it.  How To Check Microphone Permissions on Your Smartphone Android users can review and manage the apps that have microphone access by visiting the Permission Manager. If you determine that a particular app does not require microphone access, you can manually select ‘Don’t Allow’ to revoke its permission to use the microphone 

Vivo Y19 5G India Launch: Chinese smartphone manufacturer Vivo has launched the Vivo Y19 5G smartphone for mid-segment buyers in the Indian market. The phone runs Android 15 with Funtouch OS 15 on top. The newly launched smartphone comes with AI features such as AI Erase, AI Photo Enhance, and AI Documents.   It is offered in three storage variants: 4GB + 64GB, 4GB + 128GB and 6GB + 128GB and comes with IP64 rating for dust and water resistance. Notably, the smartphone has succeeded the Vivo Y18, which was introduced in May 2024 in the country. The device comes in two colour ptions: Titanium Silver and Majestic Green.  Vivo Y19 5G Price In India And Availability  The device is available in three storage variants: the 4GB RAM + 64GB storage model is priced at Rs 10,499, the 4GB RAM + 128GB variant costs Rs 11,499, and the top-end 6GB RAM + 128GB storage option is available for Rs 12,999. Consumers can purchase the handset via Flipkart, the Vivo India e-store, and authorised retail partners in the country.  Vivo Y19 5G Launch Offers  Flipkart is offering an instant bank discount of Rs 750 on SBI card transactions as part of the SASA LELE sale. Adding further, the customers can also avail a three-month no-cost EMI option with zero down payment.  Vivo Y19 5G Specifications:  The device features a 6.74-inch IPS display with HD+ resolution and a 90Hz refresh rate. It offers up to 840 nits of peak brightness, a pixel density of 260 PPI, TUV Low Blue Light certification, and 70% NTSC color coverage. The phone is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 6300 SoC. On the photography front, the phone includes a 13MP primary camera along with a 0.08MP secondary lens, while the front houses a 5MP selfie camera. It is backed by a 5,500mAh BlueVolt battery supporting 15W wired fast charging, Smart Charging Engine 2.0, and a five-year Battery Health guarantee. For security, it offers a side-mounted fingerprint scanner and supports face unlock. 

Microsoft Skype Shutting Down: Microsoft has announced that it will shut down its video-calling platform, Skype, on May 5 — just a few days from now. The company believes it no longer needs both Skype, the video-calling platform that made headlines in the early 2000s, and Teams in its business plans. This move is a part of the company’s broader strategy to consolidate its communication platforms and focus on Microsoft Teams. However, tech giant Microsoft did not make the decision to shut down Skype overnight and its update was first announced earlier this year. People have got enough time to make the transition from Skype to Teams.   Skype Launch Date The video platform was launched in 2003 by Danish software developer Janus Friis and Swedish developer Niklas Zennstrom. Skype was among the most popular video-calling platforms.  Skype Features: What Will Happen To Current Subscribers This change will affect both free and paid Skype users, but not Skype for Business. Microsoft will stop offering paid Skype features to new customers, including Skype Credit and subscriptions for making and receiving domestic and international calls. However, the current subscribers can continue to use their existing credit and active subscriptions until the conclusion of their next renewal cycle.  Skype Users Can Switch To Microsoft Teams Microsoft says that Skype users will not face any major issues when migrating to Teams, as their existing Skype IDs can be used to log in and easily transfer chats and contacts. However, both platforms have similar features which includes one-on-one and group calls, messaging, and file sharing.

New Delhi: WhatsApp is rolling out a new feature called “Advanced Chat Privacy” to improve the security of your personal and group chats. Users with this new update won’t be able to export chats or automatically download media. This adds an extra layer of protection. Plus, the feature also blocks mentions of Meta AI in chats which makes your conversations even more private. WhatsApp shared the update in a blog post, explaining that the new setting is designed for chats that involve sensitive topics—especially when the group includes people who may not know each other well. “This new setting… helps prevent others from taking content outside of WhatsApp for when you may want extra privacy,” the company said on Thursday. Once turned on for a specific chat or group, the Advanced Chat Privacy feature stops members from exporting messages, automatically saving media, or using messages with outside AI tools. WhatsApp says the goal is to give users more control—especially in group chats where everyone might not know each other well. WhatsApp already has features like disappearing messages and chat locks but this new setting is designed for semi-public or topic-based groups like health support forums or community organizing chats. These conversations are often private in nature, even though the members may not know each other personally. This is just the beginning for the new feature. WhatsApp says more upgrades are coming soon, with even stronger privacy options on the way. The feature is currently rolling out worldwide and will be available to all users in the latest app update over the next few days.

OPPO A5 Pro 5G India Launch: Chinese electronic brand Oppo has launched the OPPO A5 Pro 5G smartphone for the mid-segment buyers in the Indian market. The newly launched smartphone comes as a successor to the OPPO A3 Pro, which launched in the country last June. It is available in Mocha Brown and Feather Blue shades colour options. The OPPO A5 Pro 5G is offered in the 8GB + 128GB and 8GB+256GB storage model.  OPPO A5 Pro 5G AI Features:  The device comes equipped with a variety of AI-powered features, such as AI Eraser 2.0, LivePhoto, AI Portrait Retouching, AI Reflection Remover, AI Studio, and more.  OPPO A5 Pro 5G Specification  The smartphone features a 6.67-inch IPS panel with an HD+ resolution and a smooth 120Hz refresh rate, ensuring fluid visuals. The device is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 6300 SoC, which is supported by VC cooling technology for improved thermal management during intensive tasks.  It runs on ColorOS 15 based on Android 15 and comes pre-installed with the Trinity Engine for enhanced performance. The phone packs a robust 5,800mAh battery that supports 45W SuperVOOC wired fast charging, offering quick power top-ups.  On the photography front, the smartphone houses a 50MP main sensor with an f/1.8 aperture and autofocus, accompanied by a 2MP monochrome camera with an f/2.4 aperture and an LED flash. For selfies and video calls, there is an 8MP front camera with an f/2.0 aperture.  OPPO A5 Pro 5G Price In India And Availability  The smartphone is available in two storage variants. The base model with 8GB of RAM and 128GB of internal storage is priced at Rs 17,999, while the higher-end variant offering 8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage comes at a price of Rs 19,999. Consumers can purchase the smartphone via OPPO India e-store, Flipkart, Amazon, and major retail outlets across the country.  OPPO A5 Pro 5G Bank Offers  OPPO is providing an instant bank discount of up to Rs 1,500 on credit cards from SBI, IDFC FIRST Bank, BOB Financial, Federal Bank, and DBS. Adding further, customers can benefit from up to six months of no-cost EMI and a zero down payment option.  OPPO A5 Pro 5G Alternative    The Infinix Note 50s 5G+ is priced at Rs 15,999, while the iQOO Z10x comes in slightly lower at Rs 14,999. Meanwhile, the Acer Super ZX Pro is available for Rs 17,990. The realme P3 is priced at Rs 16,999, offering a competitive option in its segment.  Adding further, the POCO X7 is available for Rs 18,698, while the Motorola Edge 50 Fusion comes in at Rs 19,499, providing customers with a range of choices across different price points. 

Banned Whatsapp Account Recovery: WhatsApp, a Meta-owned platform, has become an integral part of modern-day communication. The social media is widely used across corporate offices for professional interactions and among individuals for staying connected with family and friends, making it an essential part of daily personal and professional life.  Getting banned on WhatsApp can feel like a nightmare, but thankfully, you can recover your blocked account. In this guide, we’ll show you how to restore a mistakenly banned account and explain some common reasons why accounts get blocked. According to an official statement, WhatsApp does not allow “falsehoods, misrepresentations, or misleading statements” on the app.   Why WhatsApp Accounts Get Banned? WhatsApp accounts get banned for violating the platform’s terms of service, such as sending bulk messages, using unofficial apps, spreading misinformation, or engaging in suspicious activity. Repeated complaints, spamming, or abusive behavior can also trigger an account ban by WhatsApp.  How To Remove Ban From WhatsApp Step 1: Open WhatsApp, go to Settings, and tap on the Help section. Step 2: In the Help menu, select Contact Us or Report a Problem to reach WhatsApp’s support team. Step 3: Clearly explain that your account was banned without any mistake and request a review. Step 4: Make sure to include your name, contact number, and all relevant details to strengthen your case. Step 5: Submit the report, clearly stating why you believe the ban was a mistake, and wait for WhatsApp’s response. How Long Will It Take to Recover? In many cases, if WhatsApp temporarily bans your account, the restriction can be lifted within 24 hours to 30 days. During this time, avoid using third-party WhatsApp mods like GBWhatsApp or WhatsApp Plus. Often, accounts get temporarily banned for using unofficial apps, which violate WhatsApp’s Community Guidelines. Using these third-party apps can worsen the situation and could delay the recovery of your account. 

New Delhi: OpenAI on Tuesday announced the rollout product purchase on ChatGPT search which will be rolled out to Plus, Pro, Free, and logged-out users everywhere ChatGPT is available. The  Sam Altman-run AI company said that products are selected by ChatGPT independently and are not ads.   “Users can now search for a product, compare options, and buy products in ChatGPT. People will have personalised recommendations, visual product details, pricing, and reviews for products, with direct links to buy,” said OpenAI. “Users come to ChatGPT with all kinds of questions, and one common topic is researching and buying products. Now, when a user query suggests shopping intent (e.g., “I’m looking to buy costumes for my two dogs”), ChatGPT can display relevant product options in visually rich carousels, provide additional product details, and link users to websites where they can learn more or make a purchase – available in GPT-4o and 4o-mini,” it added. OpenAI said that product appears in the visual carousel when ChatGPT perceives it’s relevant to the user’s intent. ChatGPT assesses intent based on the user’s query and other available context, such as memories or custom instructions. Product listings shown by ChatGPT may include prices, based on third-party providers review. After clicking on that price, users may see additional pricing options from other merchants who also offer that product.   Prices shown in ChatGPT’s initial response typically reflect the price from the first merchant listed, which may not be the lowest available price, OpenAI said.

Amazon Great Summer Sale 2025: Good news for customers who have been waiting for exciting offers — the wait is finally over! Amazon India has officially announced the Great Summer Sale 2025, which kicks off today, May 1. Notably, Amazon Prime members get 12-hour early access starting at midnight. The Amazon Summer Sale brings massive discounts across a wide range of categories, including electronics, fashion, home essentials, fashion, groceries kitchen products, and more.  However, the sale is already alive and the e-commerce giant has not revealed the end date of the sale in the country.  Amazon Great Summer Sale 2025: Bank Deals And Offers  The mega sale offers a 10 per cent instant discount on HDFC Bank card payments. Shoppers can also enjoy no-cost EMI options and exciting exchange deals. The dedicated sale page highlights standout offers across smartphones, home appliances, electronics, and more. Amazon Great Summer Sale: Starts 1st May, Noon  Curated Offer Page – https://t.co/wrqf4uNS1Q Home Appliances  Up to 65% off https://t.co/wrqf4uNS1Q  Smart TVs & Projectors  Up to 65% off https://t.co/4mnkTG66a6  Daily Needs  Up to 60% off… pic.twitter.com/nVU0hko8bl — Investment Books (Dhaval) (@InvestmentBook1) April 29, 2025 Customers can save up to 80 per cent on popular products, with electronics and accessories seeing discounts of up to 75 per cent. Meanwhile, there is a 40 per cent off on mobile phones and accessories. The sale also features big deals on smartphones, cameras, smartwatches, and other gadgets. No-cost EMI is available for up to 24 months, along with exchange benefits of up to Rs 10,000 on select devices. Amazon Great Summer Sale 2025: Deals On Smartphones And Laptops During the sale, the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra 5G is available for Rs 84,999, while the iPhone 15 is being offered at Rs 57,249. The iQOO Neo 10R, originally priced at Rs 26,999, is now available for just Rs 24,999 with bank offers. The Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Classic is up for grabs at Rs 18,499, according to Amazon. Meanwhile, the OnePlus 13R comes with a Rs 3,000 bank discount, reducing its effective price to Rs 39,999. Other smartphones, including the OnePlus Nord 4, iQOO Z10x, Redmi A4 5G, and Narzo 80 Pro 5G, are also available at special prices. The Mobile accessories are being offered at discounts of up to 40 per cent. Tech enthusiasts can also grab the Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen) for Rs 23,119, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE for Rs 28,999, and the GoPro Max for Rs 29,990. Laptop deals include the ASUS Vivobook with an Intel i5 processor priced at Rs 51,990, and the Lenovo Ryzen 5 laptop available for Rs 61,990.

New Delhi: Apple registered 28 per cent growth in iPhone shipments in India (year-on-year) in the first quarter this year (January-March period), industry data showed on Thursday.  iPhone 16 series was the highest-selling Apple device, capturing 54 per cent market share, with iPhone 15 series garnering 36 per cent share in Q1 2025, according to data provided by said the report by CyberMedia Research (CMR). Apple iPads saw 18 per cent annual growth in Q1 2025 compared to the year-ago period. In the entire 2025, iPhones are likely to garner 11 per cent share in the Indian smartphone market, with iPads clocking 33 per cent, the data projected, as the tech giant doubles down on local manufacturing. Apple maintained its strong growth momentum in India, recording double-digit year-on-year growth and its highest-ever quarterly shipments in Q1. The iPhone 16 series, led by the more accessible iPhone 16e, was the key growth driver. “With nearly three million units shipped in Q1 2025 alone, Apple achieved its strongest first-quarter performance in the Indian market to date,” said Prabhu Ram, VP-Industry Research Group (IRG), CMR. As supply chain realignments gather pace, India is emerging as a critical hub for iPhone production in the coming years. Ram said Apple is well-positioned to sustain this momentum — not only through expanded local manufacturing of iPhones and other products but also through increased investment in its retail footprint, with more Apple-owned and operated stores set to launch. In parallel, Apple is tapping into India’s skilled talent pool to support its broader initiatives across retail, artificial intelligence, and machine learning. The country is now achieving ‘Make in India’ at a global scale, as reports suggest that tech giant Apple may shift the entire assembly of iPhones meant for the US to India by next year. This would be a major step in Apple’s global manufacturing strategy as the company looks to reduce its dependence on China. Meanwhile, Apple’s contract manufacturers in India are already scaling up their operations. Foxconn’s new plant in Bengaluru is expected to become operational this month and could produce up to 20 million iPhones at full capacity. In the past year, iPhones worth $22 billion were assembled in India, with Tamil Nadu-based Foxconn contributing nearly 50 per cent of Apple’s exports.

Gmail Account Security Check: In today’s online world, your Gmail account holds much more than just emails. It can store private chats, important documents, bank information, and access to many other apps. So, if you think someone else might be using your Gmail, it’s important to act fast. The best part? Google makes it easy to check your account activity and see where it’s currently logged in. Just like you protect your bank account, it’s important to keep your email and social media accounts safe too. Gmail has a helpful feature that lets you check where your account is being used.  Gmail Security Features: How To Check If Someone Else Is Using Your Gmail Step 1: Go to Gmail and sign in to your account.  Step 2: In the top-right corner of Gmail, click on your profile photo. Step 3: From the menu, select Manage your Google Account to open your account settings. Step 4: On the left-hand side of the screen, click Security to view your security settings. Step 5: Look for the Your Devices area and click on Manage All Devices. Step 6: You’ll see a list of devices where your account is active. Click any unfamiliar device and tap Sign out to secure your account. Gmail Account: What To Do If You Spot Unauthorized Access  If you see anything unusual on your Gmail account, the first thing to do is change your password right away. Go to your Google Account settings and choose a strong, new password that you haven’t used before. After that, sign out of all other devices by clicking “Sign out of all other web sessions” in the Last account activity section. This will log out anyone else who might be using your account. To keep your account even safer, turn on 2-Step Verification. It adds an extra layer of security when you sign in. At the end, check all the devices and apps connected to your Gmail. Go to the Security section of your Google Account and remove anything you don’t recognize. Notably. Google sends you an email or notification if it detects any suspicious login activity on your account.