technology

Android security to be enhanced with new anti-theft features

Google introduces advanced security features for Android 15, including Theft Detection Lock using AI to prevent unauthorized access, Private Space for sensitive apps, and Remote Lock and Factory Reset Protection to protect personal data if a device is lost or stolen. These measures aim to enhance user safety and deter smartphone theft.

WhatsApp tests customisable colour themes for chat bubbles

WhatsApp is testing customizable color themes for chat bubbles in its iOS beta version. This new feature will allow users to customize the main color palette of the app and chat bubble colors. The update aims to maintain necessary color accessibility by restricting the color choices to ensure readability. The release date for these features is yet to be confirmed.

Xiaomi gets another good news after successful SU7 launch

Xiaomi's entry into China's EV market has caused a stir, with its SU7 sedan selling over 7,000 units in April. This cements the smartphone giant's position as the country's eighth-largest EV newcomer and sets the stage for a heated competition with established players like Volkswagen and Tesla. The company aims for 100,000 deliveries this year.

Elon Musk visits China as Tesla seeks self-driving technology rollout

Elon Musk visited China to discuss the rollout of Tesla's Full Self-Driving (FSD) software and data transfer permissions. His meeting with Premier Li Qiang was viewed as a successful example of U.S.-China cooperation. The trip comes amidst Tesla's plans to make FSD available in China and seek approval to transfer data collected in the country abroad.

WhatsApp working to allow file sharing without internet

WhatsApp is reportedly testing a new feature to allow file sharing, such as photos and videos, with nearby users without an internet connection. Additionally, they are working on an in-app dialler and enhancing security by making file sharing end-to-end encrypted. Meta has also added its AI assistant to WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook, and Messenger.

Google lays off employees, shifts some roles abroad amid cost cuts

Google, owned by Alphabet, is implementing layoffs and shifting some roles abroad to cut costs. The company is reducing its workforce and some roles will be moved to hubs in India, Chicago, Atlanta, and Dublin. This follows previous job cuts, and fears arise about ongoing layoffs amid economic uncertainty. CEO Sundar Pichai predicted more job cuts earlier this year.

Xiaomi SU7 buyers face month-long waits for deliveries

Potential buyers of Xiaomi SU7 electric sedan are facing long waits of four to seven months, signaling strong demand for the company's first vehicle. Deliveries for the standard model may take 18-21 weeks, with the most expensive model possibly taking 27-30 weeks. Xiaomi's expertise in smartphones gives it an edge in smart dashboards for EVs.

Apple, Google and Meta Platforms will be investigated!

EU antitrust regulators will investigate Apple, Google, and Meta Platforms for potential breaches of the Digital Markets Act. The investigation could result in hefty fines, with potential violations leading to fines of up to 10% of the companies' global annual turnover. The companies are under scrutiny for potential non-compliance with the new law's guidelines.

Xiaomi SU7: CEO teases price on upcoming car

Xiaomi's CEO revealed the company's first electric vehicle, the SU7, will be priced below 500,000 yuan ($69,424) and emphasized its exceptional design and intelligence. The official price range and pre-orders will commence on Thursday. The car's unveiling in December and the company's aim to become a top five automaker have generated considerable anticipation.

Google hit with 250 million euro fine

France's competition watchdog fined Google 250 million euros for breaching EU intellectual property rules in its dealings with media publishers. The AI-powered chatbot Bard, now rebranded as Gemini, used content from publishers and news agencies without notifying them. Google accepted the settlement and proposed remedy measures, stating the fine was disproportionate. The dispute arose from complaints by French news organizations, and the watchdog found Google violated several commitments. The fine follows a trend of publishers seeking to protect their content from unauthorized use by AI services.