Author: Shweta Srivastava

Say hello to Shweta, a tech fan who's hooked on keeping up with all things tech. When she's not exploring the latest gadgets, she's diving into a good book, clicking photos as an amateur photographer, or enjoying classic movies and music. With her love for both tech and creativity, Shweta adds her own touch to tech news in a way that's easy to understand and enjoy.

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Featured Gaming Info

Xbox Game Pass Core Games Revealed: What’s In Store For Gamers?

X Game Pass

Key Highlights

  • List of games for Microsoft Xbox Game Pass Core released
  • Live Gold is being replaced with Xbox Game Pass Core
  • Dead Cells and Fallout 4 are among the titles reaching Game Pass Core

Microsoft has made a significant shift by replacing its Xbox Live Gold subscription plan with the all-new Xbox Game Pass Core. This revamped service promises a diverse array of titles, setting it apart from its predecessor. Instead of the traditional monthly offerings, the Xbox Game Pass Core will feature a dynamic library of multiple games, marking a refreshing change. Microsoft has already unveiled the inaugural lineup of games for this new service. Also Read | Best Games On Xbox Game Pass That Are Worth Playing

36 Titles For Xbox One And Xbox Series X|S

The Xbox Game Pass Core launch comes with an exciting roster of 36 titles, catering to both Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S users. These titles promise a joyful gaming experience right from the start.

Among UsAstroneerCeleste
Dead CellsDescendersDishonored 2
Doom Eternal Standard EditionFable AnniversaryFallout 4
Fallout 76FirewatchForza Horizon 4 Standard Edition
Gang BeastsGears 5 Game of the Year EditionGolf with your Friends
GroundedHalo 5: GuardiansHalo Wars 2
Hellblade: Senua’s SacrificeHuman Fall FlatInside
LimboOri & the Will of the WispsOvercooked! 2
Payday 2: Crimewave EditionPowerwash SimulatorPsychonauts 2
Slay the SpireSpiritfarer: Farewell EditionStardew Valley
State of Decay 2: Juggernaut EditionSuperliminalThe Elder Scrolls Online
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder’s RevengeUnpackingVampire Survivors

Also Read | Best Game Settings For BGMI, PUBG For A Premium Gaming Experience On Android, iOS

Regular Library Updates

Microsoft is committed to keeping the Xbox Game Pass Core library new and engaging for its users. The company has plans to update the available games 2-3 times annually. Gamers can stay updated on these changes through Microsoft’s official Game Pass page.

Xbox Live Gold Benefits With Game Pass Core

For those concerned about losing the perks of Xbox Live Gold, Microsoft has reassuring news. Xbox Game Pass Core will grant access to the same benefits offered by Xbox Live Gold, ensuring a seamless transition for existing subscribers.

Stay Informed

As Microsoft continues to evolve its gaming offerings, it’s essential for gamers to stay informed about these changes and updates. Keep an eye on Microsoft’s official channels for the latest developments in the world of Xbox gaming.

Also Read | 100+ Best Instagram Gaming Names For Boys

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Featured Leaks Mobile

Lava Blaze Pro 5G Official Teaser Hints At Festive Season Arrival

Key Highlights

  • The debut of the new Blaze Pro 5G has been announced by Lava
  • The Lava Blaze Pro 5G will debut in the entry-level market during the upcoming festive season
  • A Dimensity chipset is rumored to power the Lava Blaze Pro 5G

Lava‘s Business Head, Sunil Raina, has announced the imminent arrival of the Lava Blaze Pro 5G smartphone in India, marking a significant addition to the Blaze series. The key highlight? It’s a 5G-enabled device.

In a tweeted teaser, Sunil Raina also acknowledged the success of the Blaze 5G, which was introduced in the Indian market last year. He expressed gratitude for its incredible support and accolades, including the “Best Smartphone of the Year” recognition. Also Read | Top 5 Best 5G Smartphones under Rs 20,000 in India in July 2021 – Realme, Oppo, iQOO, etc

Lava Blaze Pro 5G Launch

Lava has kept the exact launch date under wraps, but the company has assured eager consumers that the Blaze Pro 5G will make its debut during the upcoming festive season, providing a convincing reason to look forward to the coming months.

Lava Blaze Pro 5G Design Clues

While detailed specifications for the upcoming Blaze Pro 5G remain a mystery, tipster Abhishek Yadav has offered a glimpse. The smartphone appears to feature a contemporary design on its rear and a dual-camera system with AI capabilities. The primary camera will have a 50MP sensor.

Also Read | Top Five Budget Android 5G, 4G Smartphones Available Under Rs. 15,000 In India Right Now

Lava Blaze Pro 5G Expected Price

According to the tipster, this Lava phone might enter the market with the MediaTek Dimensity 6020 chipset, priced below Rs. 15,000.

Competitive Landscape

If these details prove accurate, the Lava Blaze Pro 5G will find itself competing with the likes of the Infinix Hot 30 5G, Realme Narzo 60 5G, Samsung M series, and other 5G-enabled smartphones in its price range.

Lava’s Recent Launch: Blaze 2 Pro

In a separate development, Lava recently introduced the Lava Blaze 2 Pro in the Indian market. Unlike the upcoming Blaze Pro 5G, this model is a 4G smartphone. It boasts a 6.5-inch water-drop notch display with HD+ resolution and a smooth 90Hz refresh rate. On the camera front, it features a triple-rear camera setup with a 50MP primary lens and two 2MP sensors. For selfies, it offers an 8MP front-facing camera.

Also Read | MediaTek Dimensity 7200 Ultra Octa-Core Mobile Chipset For Premium Mid-Range Phones Launched: To Debut With Redmi Note 13 Series

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Featured How To Mobile

iPhone 15 Series Pre-Ordering Starts In India: Here’s How To Book Yours

Key Highlights

  • The iPhone 15 series will be available for pre-order beginning September 15
  • It will be available for sale starting September 22
  • The iPhone 15 Pro starts at Rs. 1,34,900 and the iPhone 15 Pro Max at Rs. 1,59,900 in India

Apple officially launched its highly awaited iPhone 15 series during the Wonderlust event. This new series comprises four models: iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro, and iPhone 15 Pro Max. All of these iPhone 15 series models will soon be available for purchase in India. Here’s what you need to know about their release. Also Read | iPhone 14, iPhone 13 Get Major Price Drops In India After iPhone 15 Debut

Pre-Order And Availability

Interested customers in India can begin pre-ordering any of the four iPhone 15 series models starting September 15 at 5:30 PM IST. These pre-ordered devices will be available for sale on September 22.

iPhone 15 And iPhone 15 Plus: Design And Camera Features

The recently launched iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus boast a visually striking color-infused back glass with a matte texture and an aluminum frame. These models feature a Dynamic Island, a 48MP main camera, and a new 2x zoom camera. They excel at capturing remarkable portraits and low-light photos, all powered by the A16 Bionic chip. Additionally, they come with a USB-C connector, Precision Finding for Find My, and enhanced durability features.

iPhone 15 Pro And iPhone 15 Pro Max: Premium Features

The iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max are designed with aerospace-grade titanium, combining lightweight construction with durability. These Pro models introduce a customizable Action button, a 48MP primary camera, and enhanced portrait and Night mode capabilities. The iPhone 15 Pro Max takes it a step further with a new 5x telephoto camera and the A17 Pro chip for enhanced gaming and overall performance.

iPhone 15 Series Price In India

In India, the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus will be available in pink, yellow, green, blue, and black color variants, offering three storage options: 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB. The iPhone 15 starts at Rs. 79,900, while the iPhone 15 Plus starts at Rs. 89,900.

Meanwhile, the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max come in four color variants: black titanium, white titanium, blue titanium, and natural titanium finishes. The iPhone 15 Pro offers four storage options: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB, with a starting price of Rs. 1,34,900. The iPhone 15 Pro Max provides three storage options: 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB, starting at Rs. 1,59,900.

Also Read | Apple iPhone 15 Pro And Pro Max Arrive With A17 Pro Processor: Details Inside

iPhone 15 Series: How To Pre-Order In India

For those interested in pre-ordering any model from the iPhone 15 series, here’s a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Visit Apple India’s official website.

Step 2: Hover over the iPhone in the top menu.

Step 3: From the drop-down menu, choose either iPhone 15 or iPhone 15 Pro.

Step 4: Scroll down and click on the option “View Pricing.”

Step 5: Choose your desired variant.

Step 6: Select the color and storage option you prefer.

Step 7: Opt for Apple Trade-In and answer a few questions if you want to exchange your old smartphone, or choose “No trade-in.”

Step 8: Decide on AppleCare+ coverage for protection against accidental damage, or select “No AppleCare+ Coverage.”

Step 9: Click “Continue” to proceed to the payment page.

Also Read | iPhone 15 Series Price Comparison In India, US, UK, Dubai, Vietnam: Where It’s The Cheapest?

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Comparison Featured Mobile

iPhone 15 Series Price Comparison In India, US, UK, Dubai, Vietnam: Where It’s The Cheapest?

Key Highlights

  • iPhone 15 series shows major pricing variations across different regions
  • iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max India prices are the highest in the world
  • US remains the most affordable option to buy new iPhone 15 series

Apple’s grand “Wonderlust” launch event marked the official introduction of the iPhone 15 series. With availability starting from September 22, intriguing price differences emerged among various markets, such as India, the US, the UK, Dubai, Vietnam, and others. Notably, the high-end Pro models witnessed large price increases, making them even pricier than their predecessors in India. Also Read | Apple iPhone 15 Pro And Pro Max Arrive With A17 Pro Processor: Details Inside

iPhone 15 Pro Models Get Costlier In India

Apple finally dismissed rumors of an iPhone 15 Pro price hike in the US. However, the scenario was quite different in India, where the iPhone 15 Pro’s price surged by Rs. 5,000, and the Pro Max’s price skyrocketed by Rs. 20,000. The base variant of the iPhone 15 Pro Max, while climbing the price ladder, now boasts twice the storage capacity of the entry-level model. Remarkably, it stands as the most expensive iPhone ever launched, approaching the Rs. 200,000 mark for the 1TB storage variant.

ModelIndia PriceUS PriceUK PriceDubai PriceVietnam PriceJapan Price
iPhone 15Rs. 79,900$799 (Rs. 66,208)£799 (Rs. 82,770)AED 3,399 (Rs. 76,687)VND 22,999,000 (Rs. 79,047)124,800 Yen (Rs. 70,007)
iPhone 15 PlusRs. 89,900$899 (Rs. 74,495)£899 (Rs. 93,129)AED 3,799 (Rs. 85,712)VND 25,999,000 (Rs. 89,358)139,800 Yen (Rs. 78,673)
iPhone 15 ProRs. 134,900$999 (Rs. 82,781)£999 (Rs. 103,488)AED 4,299 (Rs. 96,993)VND 28,999,000 (Rs. 99,669)159,800 Yen (Rs. 89,929)
iPhone 15 Pro MaxRs. 159,900$1,199 (Rs. 99,354)£1199 (Rs. 124,206)AED 5,099 (Rs. 115,043)VND 34,999,000 (Rs. 120,290)189,800 Yen (Rs. 106,811)

Comparing iPhone 15 And iPhone 15 Plus Pricing

Shifting focus back to the iPhone 15 series, the prices of the standard iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus closely align with those in other markets. This is particularly true when factoring in the Rs. 5,000 discount offered by Apple to HDFC cardholders. However, while they remain over 20 percent cheaper in the US, various factors such as bank discounts and exchange offers almost neutralize the pricing gap.

Also Read | iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus Is Here: 48MP Camera, Satellite Roadside Assistance And More Features

iPhone 15 Pro Series Prices

The narrative takes a distinct turn with the iPhone 15 Pro series. In India, the pricing of the new iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max stands as the highest globally. Surprisingly, prospective buyers could fly to destinations like Dubai or Vietnam and get an iPhone 15 Pro or Pro Max for less than the cost in India.

Best Places To Buy

When it comes to affordability, the United States emerges as the most budget-friendly destination for purchasing an iPhone 15 series device, even after factoring in sales tax. Following closely are Canada and Japan, providing favorable options to get your dream iPhone.

Despite an average sales tax ranging from 8.5 percent to 13 percent in the US, buying an iPhone 15 Pro or iPhone 15 Pro Max in the US proves to be at least 25 percent cheaper compared to India. While an iPhone 15 from the US may lack a physical SIM card slot, supporting only eSIM, this inconvenience is eased by major Indian telecom providers like Airtel, Jio, and Vi offering eSIM support.

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Featured Info Mobile

iPhone 14, iPhone 13 Get Major Price Drops In India After iPhone 15 Debut

Key Highlights

  • iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, and iPhone 13 India prices have officially been reduced by Apple
  • The new prices are applicable on the Apple website
  • The price of the iPhone 14 in India currently starts at Rs. 69,900

Apple’s ‘Wonderlust’ event on Tuesday not only introduced the iPhone 15 series but also came with significant price reductions for older iPhones and some model discontinuations. Apple enthusiasts were eagerly awaiting the unveiling of the iPhone 15 series. While the new models took the spotlight, Apple had something in store for those eyeing the older iPhones as well – a price cut. Here’s what you need to know about these price adjustments. Also Read | iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus Is Here: 48MP Camera, Satellite Roadside Assistance And More Features

Price Reductions On Older iPhones

If you’ve been waiting for the right moment to grab an older iPhone at a more affordable rate, this might be the ideal time to make your purchase. The reduced prices apply on the official Apple website, and costs on e-commerce platforms such as Amazon and Flipkart may vary. Here are the details on the iPhones getting a price cut.

VariantiPhone 13iPhone 14iPhone 14 Plus
128GBRs. 59,900Rs. 69,900Rs. 79,900
256GBRs. 69,900Rs. 79,900Rs. 89,900
512GBRs 89,900Rs. 99,900Rs. 109,900

Additionally, it’s worth keeping an eye out for the upcoming Dussehra and Diwali sales on these e-commerce platforms, as they could potentially bring further price reductions.

Also Read | Step-By-Step Guide: How To Create Live Stickers On Your iPhone

iPhone Models Discontinued Post iPhone 15 Launch

In addition to the price reductions, Apple has decided to discontinue certain iPhone models, including the iPhone 14 Pro, iPhone 14 Pro Max, and previous-generation Non-Pro/Pro models. While these products may no longer be listed on the official Apple website, e-commerce platforms like Amazon, Flipkart, Croma, and others are expected to continue offering them, thanks to their stock inventory.

The good news for users interested in these discontinued models is that Apple will continue to provide software updates for them. So, if you’re considering purchasing one of these older iPhone models, you can rest assured that you’ll still receive the necessary software support.

iPhone 15 Series: What’s New

This latest model of the iPhone, the iPhone 15 series, boasts significant improvements in terms of performance, camera capabilities, and overall design. The iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max, for example, feature a Titanium frame and the new A17 Pro 3nm chipset. Meanwhile, the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus models have adopted the Dynamic Island design from the iPhone 14 Pro models, along with an impressive 48MP camera sensor.

While Apple has retained the prices of most iPhone 15 series models, it’s worth noting that the iPhone 15 Pro Max comes with a $100 price increase compared to its predecessor, the iPhone 14 Pro Max.

Also Read | Apple iPhone 15 Pro And Pro Max Arrive With A17 Pro Processor: Details Inside

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Featured Info Mobile

Apple iPhone 15 Pro And Pro Max Arrive With A17 Pro Processor: Details Inside

Key Highlights

  • Apple unveiled its premium iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max
  • The latest model comes with an advanced A17 Pro chip
  • The Pro lineup enables powerful workflows for photographers and filmmakers

In a momentous announcement, Apple has revealed its highly anticipated premium flagship smartphones, the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max. Here are all the details. Also Read | iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus Is Here: 48MP Camera, Satellite Roadside Assistance And More Features

Redefined Design with Titanium Enclosure

Apple’s new high-end offerings retain the design essence of the previous iPhone 14 Pro series while introducing a stunning Titanium casing. The result is a blend of familiarity and innovation, setting the stage for these devices to shine at the Wonderlust event.

Four Titanium Shades

The iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max make a statement with their four captivating Titanium color options. Encasing the heart of these phones is the formidable A17 Pro Bionic chip, a true testament to Apple’s commitment to great performance.

Innovation In Design

These Pro models boast the most premium material ever seen in an iPhone – Titanium. With contoured borders and reduced dimensions, the design seamlessly blends aesthetics with functionality, creating a lighter yet more robust device. The ceramic shield adds an extra layer of protection. Notably, the slider has been replaced by a versatile Action button, offering a more customizable user experience.

Display And Performance

The iPhone 15 Pro models introduce a host of display enhancements, including Dynamic Island, Pro Display, Pro Motion, and iOS 17’s Standby Mode. Industry-first achievements include a 3nm chip, the fastest mobile GPU, and dual high-performance cores, promising three times the performance of competitors.

A17 Pro Bionic: The Powerhouse Within

Apple proudly introduces the A17 Pro Bionic chip, setting new standards for speed and efficiency. The new chipset promises unmatched performance, outpacing its competitors in the industry.

The A17 Pro chip elevates gaming experiences with high-quality graphics and reduced power consumption. Compatibility with advanced game controllers makes gaming on these devices a pleasure. Apple asserts that these devices usher in a new era of gaming, delivering enhanced resolution, graphics, response times, and immersive environments.

Games like Resident Evil 4, once exclusive to consoles, can now be enjoyed on the iPhone 15 Pro, marking a significant leap in mobile gaming. The iPhone 15 Pro is set to become the first smartphone to natively support highly anticipated titles like the upcoming Assassin’s Creed edition.

Also Read | Step-By-Step Guide: How To Create Live Stickers On Your iPhone

USB Controller For Faster Data Transfer

A notable addition is the USB controller, which ensures swift data transmission, a feature designed to improve performance and handle complex applications.

Photography Redefined

The iPhone 15 Pro features a powerful 48MP primary camera, along with a 12MP telephoto and 12MP ultrawide camera. The Pro Max version goes further with a 5X telephoto camera. Both devices offer the ability to capture Spatial Video, pushing the boundaries of creativity.

Apple’s Pro devices redefine photography, offering remarkable versatility equivalent to carrying seven camera lenses in your pocket. These innovations promise stunning pictures and unrivaled capabilities.

Pricing Details

The iPhone 15 Pro starts at Rs. 134,900 (128GB), while the Pro Max variant is priced at Rs. 159,900 (256GB).

With the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max, Apple continues to set the standard for premium smartphones, blending cutting-edge technology with elegant design, and redefining the possibilities for photography and gaming on mobile devices.

Also Read | Apple Unveils watchOS 10: Top Five Updates For Apple Watch

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Featured Info Mobile

iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus Is Here: 48MP Camera, Satellite Roadside Assistance And More Features

Key Highlights

  • Apple launches iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus
  • The latest models have a 48MP main camera
  • The iPhones come with Satellite Roadside Assistance feature

In an effort to combat a global smartphone slowdown and address sales challenges in China, Apple has introduced the iPhone 15. This latest model boasts a brighter display, a high-resolution 48MP camera, and a commitment to sustainability with 100% recycled cobalt in its battery. Here’s all the details. Also Read | Apple Hacks: Here’s How To Hide And Unhide Your Photos On iPhone

Satellite Connectivity For Roadside Assistance

Apple has incorporated satellite connectivity into the iPhone 15, enabling users to request roadside assistance. This feature is being rolled out in partnership with the American Automobile Association (AAA) in the United States, providing added convenience and safety.

USB-C Charging For iPhones And AirPods Pro

Apple is introducing USB-C charging cables for both the iPhone 15 and the charging case of its AirPods Pro. This move allows users to use the same charging cables already compatible with iPads and Macs, streamlining the charging experience.

A16 Bionic Chip

The iPhone 15 maintains its performance excellence with the inclusion of the A16 Bionic chip, previously featured in the iPhone 14 Pro.

Also Read | Various Methods To Power Off iPhone 13 And iPhone 14 Models: Here’s How

Camera Features:

Apple has harnessed machine learning to detect individuals within photographs. This innovation allows users to easily transform regular pictures into stunning portraits, either immediately or at their convenience using the Photos app.

The iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus now house a powerful 48MP camera, a hardware addition previously seen in last year’s iPhone 14 Pro. Notably, this camera enhancement introduces a new telephoto option within the camera app. This marks the first time that the standard iPhone model benefits from telephoto capabilities. Furthermore, the camera experience is further enriched with improved Smart HDR and the extension of Night Mode to the front-facing camera, ensuring great quality selfies.

Portrait Mode Advancements

The iPhone 15 elevates portrait photography with a next-generation portrait mode. This updated feature offers enhanced bokeh effects, faster shutter speeds, and more convenient access. Users will no longer need to manually switch to portrait mode, and they can enjoy added control over focus and depth settings, empowering them to capture stunning portraits effortlessly.

Pricing Details

Pricing for the iPhone 15 starts at $799, while the iPhone 15 Plus is available at $899, catering to a range of consumer preferences.

Navigating Economic Uncertainty

Apple’s iPhone 15 launch event at its Cupertino, California headquarters occurs against a backdrop of economic uncertainty, particularly in China. As the company’s third-largest market, China presents challenges due to increased restrictions on iPhones in government offices and competition from Huawei Technologies, which recently introduced its flagship phone after several years.

Also Read | Step-By-Step Guide: How To Create Live Stickers On Your iPhone

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Apps Featured Info

Picture-Perfect Upgrade: Google Camera App’s UI Revamp And New Features

Key Highlights

  • Google Camera app has been updated
  • A toggle switch for the photo/video modes, a new settings button, and more recent additions are included
  • The 9.0 update to the Google Camera app is now available for Pixels running the Android 14 beta

Google has introduced a significant update to its native Camera app, bringing a new look and enhanced functionality. The Google Camera app’s version 9.0 features a revamped user interface (UI) that offers a more intuitive experience. However, this update is currently exclusive to devices running Android 14, including Pixels participating in the Android 14 beta program. Also Read | Google Meet’s Camera Lock; How To Use

Introducing UI Enhancements

In this latest update, one of the most prominent changes is the addition of a Photo/Video toggle button. Positioned at the bottom, this switch allows users to seamlessly switch between photo and video modes. Furthermore, Google has introduced a new settings button on the left side, providing easy access to the camera’s settings. Swiping up also opens the settings menu. As a result of these additions, the upper part of the camera app is now uncluttered.

Streamlined Navigation

The update also rearranges some buttons for improved navigation. The gallery button now resides on the left side, while the camera switch button is on the right. Google has also made mode changes, with the ‘Motion’ tab expanding to include ‘Long Exposure’ and ‘Action Pan,’ while ‘Cinematic Pan’ is now simply ‘pan’ in the new Google Camera.

Aesthetic Tweaks

Notably, the app icon for Google Camera has been enlarged to align with the new design aesthetics.

Also Read | Want To Report Accidents And Road Closures On Google Maps? Learn How To Do It

Limited Availability For Android 14

It’s important to note that the Google Camera 9.0 update is exclusively compatible with Android 14. Therefore, only users with Pixels running the Android 14 beta can currently download and install this update. Initially expected to debut with the Pixel 8 series, Google surprised users by rolling out the update starting on September 7. Older Pixels running Android 14 will also receive the update simultaneously.

Upcoming Pixel Launch

Looking ahead, Google is gearing up for the launch of the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro smartphones on October 4. Alongside these highly anticipated devices, Google will also introduce the Pixel Watch 2 and Pixel Buds Pro during the same event. The global debut will be followed by pre-orders opening in India the following day.

Also Read | Looking Beyond Google? Here’s How To Change Your Default Search Engine

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Apps Featured How To

No Cash, No Fuss: Here’s How To Pay At Fuel Stations Using Your Car’s FASTag

Key Highlights

  • ‘Pay by Car’ is a new function that ToneTag has introduced
  • This helps you pay for petrol without directly using credit cards or mobile devices
  • Using the car’s infotainment system, users may make fuel purchases at petrol stations

Fueling up your car just got easier and more convenient thanks to a new payment mode introduced by ToneTag, a firm backed by Amazon and Mastercard. Known as ‘pay by car,’ this innovative feature allows you to pay for fuel using your car’s UPI-linked infotainment system, making the refueling process smoother than ever. Also Read | Damaged FASTag? Here’s How To Get Duplicate FASTag Via Paytm

Linking UPI To Your Car

To use the ‘pay by car’ feature, users need to follow a few simple steps. First, they must link their UPI ID to their car’s infotainment screen. Additionally, it’s essential to have a FASTag installed on the vehicle. Once these prerequisites are met, paying for fuel becomes a breeze, and there’s no need for physical cards or smartphones.

The Paying Process

Automatic Identification: When a vehicle arrives at a fuel station, the car’s infotainment system displays the fuel dispenser number, informing the driver of their location. Simultaneously, this information is relayed to the fuel station staff for seamless service.

Entering Transaction Amount: After refueling, users only need to enter the transaction amount announced through the infotainment system’s soundbox. This step completes the online transaction, ensuring a hassle-free payment process.

Also Read | Google Maps Location Sharing Alert Notification: How To Notify Your Contacts Of Your Arrival And Departure Using Maps

Additional Features

FASTag Recharge: Beyond fuel payments, the ‘pay by car’ feature also facilitates FASTag recharges. Drivers can check their FASTag balance directly on the car’s infotainment screen, enhancing their overall payment convenience.

Conversational Payments: ToneTag’s commitment to innovation extends to conversational payments on UPI, a feature recently unveiled at the Global Fintech Fest. This new development allows users to transfer funds using voice commands, further streamlining digital transactions.

Voice-Based Offline Payments: ToneTag’s versatility is showcased by its voice-based offline payments for feature phones. Users simply call the IVR number, select the ‘Pay to Merchant’ option, and complete the transaction by tapping their mobile phone on the merchant device (POD). This user-friendly method ensures offline payments are just as accessible as online ones.

In conclusion, ToneTag’s ‘pay by car’ feature is revolutionizing fuel payments by integrating UPI with your car’s infotainment system and FASTag. With added innovations like conversational payments and voice-based offline transactions, ToneTag is making digital payments more accessible and user-friendly than ever before. Say goodbye to the inconvenience of carrying cards or smartphones at the fuel station – your car has you covered.

Also Read | Recharge Your FASTag On WhatsApp: Here’s How To Do It

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Apps Featured How To

No Card? No Problem: Here’s How To Withdraw Cash From ATMs Via UPI

Key Highlights

  • The first UPI-based ATM was launched by NPCI in India
  • Without a card, cash can be withdrawn using a UPI ATM
  • At the Global Fintech Fest 2023, UPI ATM was on show

Hitachi Payment Services, a subsidiary of the renowned Japanese conglomerate Hitachi, has introduced a groundbreaking White Label ATM (WLA) in partnership with the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI). This innovative creation, named the Hitachi Money Spot UPI ATM, redefines the way customers access cash, eliminating the need for traditional debit or credit cards. Also Read | Use UPI On Your Feature Phone With Ease: Here’s How

Unveiled at the Global Fintech Fest 2023 in Mumbai on September 5, 2023, the Hitachi Money Spot UPI ATM marks a pivotal moment in banking convenience. With the expansion of these UPI ATMs to various locations, the days of carrying physical cards to ATMs for cash withdrawals will soon become a thing of the past. This revolutionary concept allows individuals to withdraw cash directly from their bank accounts through UPI apps.

How To Use Hitachi Money Spot UPI ATM

Curious about how this UPI-ATM works? Sumil Vikamsey, Managing Director & CEO – Cash Business at Hitachi Payment Services, simplifies the process:

Step 1: Begin by choosing the desired withdrawal amount from the ATM.

Step 2: A QR code corresponding to your selected amount will appear on the screen.

Step 3: Use any UPI app on your mobile phone to scan the displayed QR code. Then, enter your UPI PIN to authorize the transaction.

Step 4: Once authorized, the ATM will dispense the requested cash.

Also Read | UPI Money Transaction Limit In India: Here’s The Limit Of Transactions You Can Do Via GPay, PhonePe, Paytm Daily

Who Can Benefit From UPI-ATMs?

The accessibility of UPI-ATMs is not limited to a select few. As Vikamsey explains, “Anyone with a registered UPI application on their Android or iOS device can utilize UPI-ATMs.” Furthermore, these White Label ATMs can be harnessed by Payment Service Providers (PSPs) with the necessary certification for Interoperable Cardless Cash Withdrawal (ICCW) functionality, as well as issuer banks that have adopted this feature.

Vikamsey anticipates that more banks and UPI PSPs will join this transformative initiative in the future. While customers had the opportunity to experience it at the Global Fintech Fest 2023, full-scale deployment will commence in the coming months.

Enhancing Security And Promoting Financial Inclusion

Beyond its convenience, the UPI-ATM also addresses security concerns. It significantly reduces the risk of card skimming by fraudsters. Moreover, it is expected to bolster financial inclusion by providing easy access to banking services in areas where traditional banking infrastructure and card usage are limited—a vision championed by Hitachi Payment Services.

Also Read | UPI Tips And Tricks: Here’s How You Can Set UPI PIN Without Using Debit Card Details