Category: Apps

Key Highlights

• WhatsApp ends support for 20+ old Android phones on January 1, 2025
• Backup chats and upgrade devices to stay connected
• Affected phones are 10+ years old with outdated software

Starting January 1, 2025, WhatsApp will no longer work on certain older Android smartphones. This update is part of the platform’s efforts to enhance functionality and security, which requires updated operating systems. Devices running Android KitKat or earlier will be affected. Here’s everything you need to know.

Also Read | WhatsApp Tips & Tricks: How To Unblock Yourself And Regain Access

Why Is WhatsApp Ending Support?

WhatsApp regularly updates its features to ensure a better and more secure experience for users. However, older devices with outdated OSs often lack the ability to support these upgrades. This results in the discontinuation of support for such devices.

Which Devices Are Affected?

Over 20 Android smartphones, mostly at least 10 years old will lose WhatsApp access. These include popular models from brands like Samsung, HTC, LG, and Sony. Some notable models are:

• Samsung Galaxy Series: Galaxy S3, Galaxy Note 2, Galaxy Ace 3, Galaxy S4 Mini
• Motorola: Moto G (1st Gen), Motorola Razr HD, Moto E 2014
• HTC: HTC One X, HTC One X+, HTC Desire 500, HTC Desire 601
• LG: LG Optimus G, LG G2 Mini, LG L90
• Sony Xperia Series: Xperia Z, Xperia SP, Xperia T, Xperia V

What Should Users Do?

If you own one of these devices, follow these steps to ensure a smooth transition:

• Use Google Drive to save all your important conversations and media.
• Upgrade to a newer device running latest versions of Android.
• Along with WhatsApp, apps like Facebook and Instagram may also stop functioning on outdated smartphones.

Why It’s Time To Upgrade

Most of the affected devices are over a decade old, that means they lack modern hardware and software capabilities. Upgrading to a newer smartphone ensures access to the latest apps, better security, and a smoother user experience.

Also Read | WhatsApp Tips And Tricks: Easy Ways To Record WhatsApp Video Calls

Conclusion

If your smartphone is listed among those losing WhatsApp support, it’s time to take action. Backup your data and consider upgrading to a newer device to stay connected. With technology evolving rapidly, this change is an opportunity to explore modern features and enhanced functionality.

For the tech geeks, stay updated with the latest cutting-edge gadgets in the market, exclusive tech updates, gadget reviews, and more right on your phone’s screen. Join Giznext’s WhatsApp channel and receive the industry-first tech updates.

Key Highlights

• Photo Gallery revamp, customizable lock screen, and Smart Drawer
• New widgets and smoother performance
• Available for Phone (2), Phone (2a) by late 2024, other devices in early 2025

Nothing has just unveiled the rollout of its latest software update, Nothing OS 3.0 (NOS 3.0), powered by Android 15. It aims to improve the user experience overall by emphasizing customization and better connectivity. With NOS 3.0, users now have more control over their device and can stay connected more easily.

Also Read | Nothing Expands Service Network To Boost Customer Support: Details

Nothing OS 3.0: Features

• Photo Gallery App Revamp: The new native Photo Gallery app comes with advanced search capabilities and editing tools, including filters, markups, and smart suggestions.
• Customizable Lock Screen: The lock screen now has a fully customizable design. This allows users to display Shared Widgets for quicker access to important information and interactions with friends and family.
• Productivity Widgets: Stay on top of your tasks with improved Productivity Widgets, like the new Countdown Widget. These widgets help users stay organized and manage their time effectively.
• AI-Powered Smart Drawer: This automatically organizes apps into categories to make sure a cleaner and more efficient device setup.

Additional Improvements

• Multi-tasking is easier with the improved Pop-up View. This help users to interact with multiple apps without losing focus on important tasks.
• Quick Settings have been redesigned for quicker and easier access to essential functions.
• NOS 3.0 brings visual upgrades for smoother performance and a more polished look across the system.
• Expect a new look with new typography, making the overall interface more modern and easier to read.

Also Read | Nothing Phone (2a) Plus Alternatives: Four Top Smartphone Rivals

Rollout Schedule

By the end of 2024, Phone (2) and Phone (2a) will be the first devices to receive the Nothing OS 3.0 update. Early in 2025, users of the Phone (1), Phone (2a) Plus, and CMF Phone 1 will get the upgrade.

For the tech geeks, stay updated with the latest cutting-edge gadgets in the market, exclusive tech updates, gadget reviews, and more right on your phone’s screen. Join Giznext’s WhatsApp channel and receive the industry-first tech updates.

Key Highlights

• Avoid sharing sensitive information like UPI PINs
• Report issues through official channels only
• Don’t use screen-sharing apps during transactions

The National Payment Corporation of India (NPCI) has issued a crucial advisory to users of GPay, PhonePe, and other UPI apps due to the growth in online UPI fraud in India. The government and banking institutions have called for vigilance in response to the concerning Digital Arrest Scam, in which scammers pose as authorities to trick victims.

Also Read | Call Barring On Android And iOS: Here’s How To Enable It To Block Spams/ Scam Calls And Enhance Privacy

What Is The Digital Arrest Scam?

In this scam, scammers pose as government representatives and accuse victims of money laundering or cybercrime. They coerce people into sending money or disclosing private information by using persuasive rhetoric and fictitious proof. Victims are frequently contacted by mails, texts, or phone calls.

NPCI’s Do’s For Staying Safe

• Register your mobile number with the bank: Ensure it is updated for secure transactions.
• Use UPI PIN wisely: Enter your PIN only for payments, never for receiving money.
• Check in-app notifications: Always verify UPI transactions through app alerts.
• Verify contact details online: Find your bank’s contact information only on its official website.
• Report issues responsibly: Raise complaints only with the bank or police authorities.

Also Read | Spot The Scam: Six Festive Season Frauds And How To Stay Protected

NPCI’s Don’ts To Avoid Fraud

• Don’t forward suspicious SMS: Ignore requests from unknown people claiming to be officials.
• Never share PINs or card details: Keep UPI and debit card information private.
• Avoid screen sharing apps: Fraudsters can misuse remote access apps during financial transactions.
• Keep grievances off social media: Don’t share transactional details on public platforms.
• Avoid multitasking while transacting: Refrain from speaking to unknown callers during UPI transactions.

The key to protecting oneself from online fraud is to remain knowledgeable and watchful. Before acting, always make sure, and report any suspicious conduct right away.

For the tech geeks, stay updated with the latest cutting-edge gadgets in the market, exclusive tech updates, gadget reviews, and more right on your phone’s screen. Join Giznext’s WhatsApp channel and receive the industry-first tech updates.

Key Highlights

• Trial Reels help creators get feedback from non-followers
• Performance insights are provided after 24 hours
• Available for professional accounts to expand reach

Trial Reels is a new feature that Instagram has introduced. With the use of this feature, creators can test out their reels and get feedback from users who aren’t following them. The initiative seeks to assist artists in improving their craft while experimenting with genres, storytelling, and other topics.

Also Read | Instagram Tips: How To Change Instagram DM Background Theme, Colors & Gradient?

Instagram Trial Reels: Key Features

• Target Audience: The purpose of trial reels is to connect with non-followers. These reels can be found in both the feed and the Reels section. This gives the creator visibility outside of their current audience.
• Performance Insights: After 24 hours of posting, creators can access key performance metrics such as views, comments, shares, and likes. This data helps creators analyze the impact of their content.
• Sharing Options: If satisfied with the feedback, creators can share the trial reel with their followers. The reel becomes visible on their profile next to drafts for easy access.
• Easy Setup: To create a Trial Reel, creators need to enable the “Trial” toggle below the caption text box before posting. This simple step ensures the reel is classified as a trial post.
• Visibility and Discovery: Trial Reels are not shown on creator profiles but can still be accessed by followers through direct links. Additionally, they may appear on pages featuring reels with similar audio, locations, or filters.
• Automatic Sharing: Instagram can automatically share a Trial Reel with the creator’s followers if it does well among non-followers over the first 72 hours. Creators retain full control and can adjust this setting as needed.

Also Read | Instagram Tips And Tricks: How To Remix Instagram Reels With Videos And Photos

Availability

For eligible creators with professional accounts, Trial Reels are being made available. It is expected that the feature will enhance more creative exploration. This makes the process more flexible and interactive.

For the tech geeks, stay updated with the latest cutting-edge gadgets in the market, exclusive tech updates, gadget reviews, and more right on your phone’s screen. Join Giznext’s WhatsApp channel and receive the industry-first tech updates.

Key Highlights

• OpenAI launched Sora for ChatGPT Plus and Pro users
• Generates 20-second videos using text or uploads
• Includes watermarks and strict safety measures

OpenAI has officially launched Sora, its AI video generation model, after months of anticipation. Available only to ChatGPT Plus and Pro subscribers, Sora enables users to create 20-second videos in resolutions up to 1080p. The model is hosted on a standalone platform. It is accessible via a website with strict subscription-based limits.

Also Read | OpenAI’s Browser Plans: Google Chrome To Face New Competition

Sora: Key Features

• Sora supports video generation in 1080p resolution with a maximum length of 20 seconds.
• Users can create videos in widescreen, vertical, or square formats.
• It allows users to upload their videos and images to blend or extend them into AI-generated content.
• Generate videos from scratch using text prompts.
• Set specific inputs for each frame to customize the video.

Subscription Plans And Limits

• ChatGPT Plus Subscribers can create 50 videos monthly at 480p resolution or fewer videos in 720p.
• ChatGPT Pro Subscribers can access “10x more usage” with higher resolutions and longer durations for $200/month.

Technology Behind Sora

• Diffusion Model: Maintains content consistency over the 20-second video by foreseeing multiple frames simultaneously.
• Transformer Architecture: Incorporates recaptioning techniques from DALL-E 3 to enhance performance.
• Data Sources: Uses publicly available data, partnerships with Shutterstock and Pond5, and proprietary datasets developed by AI trainers and employees.

Safety Measures

• Includes visible watermarks and metadata following C2PA standards to ensure content authenticity.
• Sora blocks harmful content, including deepfakes and abusive material.
• Restrictions are in place to minimize misuse during the initial phase.

Also Read | No Sign-Up Needed: OpenAI Enables Account-Free ChatGPT Access

Conclusion

With Sora, OpenAI is taking a significant step in AI video creation while addressing privacy and safety concerns. Although access is limited to paid users, the platform sets a new benchmark for video generation.

For the tech geeks, stay updated with the latest cutting-edge gadgets in the market, exclusive tech updates, gadget reviews, and more right on your phone’s screen. Join Giznext’s WhatsApp channel and receive the industry-first tech updates.

Key Highlights

• A woman is suing Apple for removing CSAM detection on iCloud
• The lawsuit seeks over $1.2 billion in damages
• Apple faces criticism for not doing enough to protect victims

A complaint filed by a 27-year-old woman alleging that Apple neglected to safeguard victims of child sexual abuse has put the firm under legal scrutiny. According to the lawsuit, Apple abandoned its intention to identify child sexual abuse material (CSAM) on iCloud, putting victims at risk of further harm.

Also Read | Google’s Gemini AI In Trouble: Chatbot’s Words Left A User Terrified

What Happened?

• In 2021, Apple unveiled a feature designed to scan iCloud photos for CSAM by using use on-device technologies.
• In 2022, Apple dropped the CSAM detection plan due to privacy concerns raised by experts and advocacy groups. Although it kept a nudity-detection tool in the Messages app.

The Lawsuit Details

• The 27-year-old victim of childhood abuse alleges that she was left vulnerable by Apple’s choice to disable the CSAM detection tool. Using a MacBook, law enforcement found pictures of her mistreatment on iCloud.
• She argues that Apple broke its promise to protect abuse victims by selling products that do not safeguard users from exploitation.
• The lawsuit seeks compensation for victims and calls for changes in Apple’s practices. The plaintiff’s legal team estimates that up to 2,680 victims could join, with damages potentially exceeding $1.2 billion.

Comparison With Other Companies

Other tech giants like Google and Meta continue to use CSAM-scanning tools that detect more illegal material than Apple’s nudity-detection feature.

Other Legal Challenges For Apple

• North Carolina Lawsuit: Apple is also facing a separate lawsuit from a nine-year-old victim who claims strangers used iCloud links to send her CSAM videos. Apple has attempted to dismiss the case, citing Section 230 protections, which typically shield companies from user-uploaded content.
• Court Rulings: Recent legal rulings suggest that these protections may not apply if companies fail to moderate harmful content actively.

Also Read | UK Man Takes Apple To Court After Wife Discovers Deleted Messages With Sex Worker

Apple’s Defense

Apple has defended its actions by saying that it is still dedicated to protecting user privacy and combating child exploitation. It highlights features like the opportunity for users to report harmful content and the detection of nudity in messages.

The plaintiff’s attorney counters that these steps are insufficient. They cited more than 80 examples of the plaintiff’s abuse photos being shared, including by a Californian on iCloud.

For the tech geeks, stay updated with the latest cutting-edge gadgets in the market, exclusive tech updates, gadget reviews, and more right on your phone’s screen. Join Giznext’s WhatsApp channel and receive the industry-first tech updates.