Category: Apps

Key Highlights

• WhatsApp adds Face ID and Touch ID login support for iOS
• Passkeys replace passwords with biometrics for enhanced security
• Users can set up passkeys in WhatsApp settings for safer logins

WhatsApp is stepping into the future of secure logins with its latest announcement. The Meta-owned app has introduced passkey support for its iOS version, allowing users to log in using their iPhone’s Face ID and Touch ID, along with the phone’s passcode. This move aims to provide users with a safer environment by leveraging biometrics for authentication. Also Read | WhatsApp Tips & Tricks: How To Unblock Yourself And Regain Access

Understanding Passkeys: A Password Alternative

Passkeys represent a new approach to authentication, replacing traditional passwords with biometric data. Instead of memorizing complex combinations of characters, users can now utilize their device’s biometrics, such as face or fingerprint recognition, for logins. This technology is based on WebAuthn, generating two unique keys upon creation: one stored on the service’s server and the other privately on the user’s device.

In the event of a lost device, backup keys enable users to regain access to their accounts and pair them with a new device using a new set of passkeys. Some services also offer alternative recovery methods, such as using a mobile number or email address.

How Passkeys Work On WhatsApp For iOS

When signing into WhatsApp on an iPhone, users are prompted to enter a numeric passcode or a one-time password (OTP) for authentication. With the introduction of passkeys, this step eliminates the need for passcodes, allowing users to authenticate using Face ID or Touch ID. This method enhances security by reducing the risk of unauthorized access through techniques like keylogging.

Rollout and Setup

Passkeys have been available on WhatsApp’s Android app since last year. The iOS rollout is expected to commence in the coming weeks. To set up passkeys, users can navigate to Settings > Account > Passkeys.

Also Read | WhatsApp Tips And Tricks: How To View Someone’s Status Secretly

Conclusion: A Safer, More Convenient Authentication Method

WhatsApp’s adoption of passkeys represents a significant step towards a passwordless future. By leveraging biometric authentication, users can enjoy a more secure and convenient login experience. With passkeys, the reliance on traditional passwords diminishes, paving the way for enhanced security in the digital realm.

Key Highlights

• New JioCinema subscription plan expected, may offer ad-free viewing
• 4K streaming and downloads likely included
• Details on pricing still awaited

JioCinema is set to unveil a new subscription plan on April 25. This announcement has sparked speculation that the platform may finally go ad-free, a feature highly requested by users and a common offering among competitors like Netflix and Prime Video. Also Read | Reliance’s JioCinema Welcomes Pokemon Content To Its Platform

Hinting At Change

See more

Change is constant, but your plan doesn't have to be 😉

A new plan. Coming April 25th.#JioCinema pic.twitter.com/aJ4FtsBl7J

— JioCinema (@JioCinema) April 21, 2024

In a post on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), JioCinema teased the upcoming plan, stating “change is constant, but your plan doesn’t have to be.” This cryptic message has led many to believe that an ad-free tier could be on the horizon.

Current Subscription Plan

Presently, JioCinema offers a single subscription plan. This plan grants users access to English content available through partner platforms like HBO and Peacock. However, other content, including Hindi shows on Viacom18 channels and Indian Premiere League cricket matches, is free to watch. This strategy aims to attract more users to the platform, as the demand for OTT platforms continues to grow. The current plan also allows simultaneous streaming on up to four devices. Despite these perks, paying subscribers are bothered by frequent short and long-format advertisements during streams.

Possible Ad-Free Tier

The introduction of an ad-free tier would align JioCinema with the offerings of other streaming platforms in India like Amazon Prime Video and Netflix. These platforms provide an ad-free experience for subscribers. However, in the US, ad-supported plans are available on international streaming platforms, offering access to the entire content library at a lower price point. JioCinema could potentially follow a similar strategy, offering a higher-priced subscription that allows users to stream content without interruptions.

Enhanced Features

Reports suggest that along with an ad-free option, the new JioCinema plan may also include 4K streaming and downloading capabilities. While the existing free and paid plans already offer 4K streaming, this enhancement would further elevate the viewing experience for subscribers.

Also Read | JioCinema Brings In HBO And WB Shows With The Launch Of Premium Subscription Plan: See Price

Pricing and Availability

The current JioCinema Premium plan is priced at Rs. 999 for a year, with no monthly tier available. In contrast, other streaming platforms like Prime Video, Netflix, and ZEE5 offer both yearly and monthly subscription options. The price of the upcoming JioCinema Premium plan remains unclear, but it is expected to offer greater value with its potential ad-free and enhanced features.

Conclusion

The expected launch of a new subscription plan by JioCinema signifies the platform’s commitment to meeting the evolving demands of its users. With the possibility of an ad-free tier and additional features like 4K streaming, subscribers can look forward to an enhanced viewing experience.

Key Highlights

• US legislation demands ByteDance sell TikTok over security concerns
• TikTok plans to contest the legislation in court
• TikTok could be removed from US app stores if ByteDance doesn’t comply

In a significant move, the US Senate has passed a bill mandating the sale of TikTok, a popular social media platform owned by Chinese company ByteDance. This legislation is part of a larger foreign aid package totaling $95 billion, which includes military support for countries like Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan. Also Read | Four Banned Apps In India That Should Make A Comeback

Why The Legislation?

The main reason behind this legislation is concern over TikTok’s ownership and its potential threat to national security. With over 170 million users in the United States alone, there are worries that the Chinese government could access user data and use the platform for surveillance or propaganda purposes.

What The Legislation Entails

The bill requires ByteDance to sell off its TikTok operations in the US within about nine months, with a possible three-month extension if needed. The aim is to prevent any potential exploitation of user data or manipulation of content by the Chinese government.

TikTok’s Response

TikTok is expected to challenge the constitutionality of the legislation through legal means. They may seek a preliminary injunction to halt enforcement while the case is being considered in court, as they’ve done in the past when facing similar restrictions from US authorities.

Impact On Users

For now, TikTok users in the US won’t see any immediate changes. The app will continue to operate as usual, serving content tailored to individual preferences. However, if the divestiture goes through, there may be changes in the ownership structure or policies in the future.

Consequences Of Non-compliance

If ByteDance fails to sell TikTok within the given timeframe and no legal injunctions are in place, the app could be removed from major US app stores. This would limit new downloads and potentially affect the functionality of existing installations, impacting both users and businesses.

Also Read | How To Get Popular Creator Badge/Verified on MX TakaTak App – Step By Step Process Explained

Chinese Government’s View

China opposes the forced sale of TikTok and sees it as another strain on US-China relations. They may also complicate the sale by regulating technology exports, including the algorithms used by TikTok, adding further complexity to negotiations.

Conclusion

The legislation targeting TikTok reflects growing concerns about data security and foreign influence in the digital sphere. While the future of TikTok in the US remains uncertain, the legal and diplomatic battles surrounding it are likely to continue for some time.

Key Highlights

• Google introduces Wallet for NFC payments and document storage
• Wallet focuses on NFC transactions and document storage
• Users add cards and documents; payments are made by tapping the phone

Google has begun rolling out its Google Wallet service to users in India, marking a significant move in the country’s digital payments landscape. While the app is not yet available to all Android users, it is gradually becoming accessible to more people over the coming weeks. Also Read | How Can You Delete Google Pay Transaction History: A Step-By-Step Guide

Difference Between Google Wallet And Google Pay

To understand Google Wallet’s introduction in India, it’s essential to differentiate it from Google Pay. Google Wallet was initially launched in 2011 as Google’s first foray into digital payments. In 2015, Android Pay (now Google Pay) was introduced to offer additional payment features, such as bill payments, which Google Wallet lacked.

In 2018, Google unified its payment services under the Google Pay brand. However, earlier this year, it announced that Google Wallet would replace Google Play in the United States.

Google Pay vs. Google Wallet In India

Google Pay in India primarily facilitates UPI-based payments, allowing users to send and receive money, pay utility bills, purchase tickets, and make payments to supported platforms. On the other hand, Google Wallet brings support for NFC-based payments using stored cards. Additionally, users can store digital documents and even car keys within the Google Wallet app.

Reports suggest that both Google Pay and Google Wallet will coexist in India, offering users different payment options based on their preferences and needs.

How To Set Up Google Wallet

Setting up Google Wallet is simple:

Step 1: Download the Google Wallet app from the Google Play Store on your Android phone.

Step 2: Log in using your Google account.

Step 3: If you’re a first-time user, you’ll be prompted to add a card. You can either scan your debit or credit card using your phone’s camera or enter the details manually.

Step 4: You can also add other passes and documents within the app.

Also Read | Never Miss A Payment Again: Learn How To Set Up Payment Reminders On Google Pay

How To Make Payments With Google Wallet

To make payments using Google Wallet:

Step 1: Turn on NFC (Near Field Communication) on your Android phone.

Step 2: Set Google Wallet as your default payment app.

Step 3: Unlock your phone.

Step 4: Tap your phone at the payment terminal to complete the transaction.

Conclusion

With the introduction of Google Wallet in India, users now have another option for digital payments, especially for NFC-based transactions. While Google Pay remains focused on UPI-based payments, Google Wallet offers additional features such as storing cards and digital documents. As the rollout continues, more Android users in India will have access to this convenient payment solution.

Key Highlights

• WhatsApp beta introduces AI chatbot for image creation and lets users rearrange favorite contacts
• Beta version includes a feature to see recently online contacts
• WhatsApp focuses on enhancing user experience with new features in the pipeline

WhatsApp is working hard to improve its platform, offering new features to enhance user experience. The beta version of WhatsApp provides a sneak peek into the upcoming changes. Here, let’s take a look. Also Read | WhatsApp Tips And Tricks: Easy Ways To Record WhatsApp Video Calls

AI Chatbot and Image Creation

The latest addition to the beta version is an AI chatbot that allows users to create AI-generated images and answer queries. While this is a significant addition, WhatsApp is also focusing on simpler features that improve usability.

Rearranging Favorite Contacts

One such feature is the ability to rearrange contacts in the favorites tab. This new tab, currently in beta testing, will be accessible from the main settings page. Users can reorder contacts based on their frequency of communication, making it easier to connect with their top contacts.

Enhanced Contact Management

By moving your most frequently contacted individuals to the top of the interface, WhatsApp aims to streamline communication. While still in beta, there’s a possibility that this feature may not make it to the public version or could be officially released in the coming weeks.

Tracking Online Status

WhatsApp is also testing a new feature to show which friends or contacts were recently online. This feature, currently in beta for Android users, adds a new tab called “Recently Online” above the contact list. While it doesn’t provide a comprehensive online list, it displays a limited number of recently active contacts. This makes it easier to identify who’s available for a call.

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

What’s Next?

WhatsApp’s commitment to innovation means more features are likely on the horizon. Whether it’s AI-driven capabilities or simple improvements to contact management, the messaging app continues to evolve to meet users’ needs. Keep an eye out for these updates as they roll out in future releases.

Key Highlights

• Paytm shifts to TPAP status due to RBI sanctions
• Users transition to new UPI handles with partner banks
• Check for potential transaction failures and update QR codes after migration

In a move to comply with regulations from the Reserve Bank of India, Paytm is undergoing a transformation into a Third-Party App Provider (TPAP). This change is necessary after the RBI imposed sanctions on Paytm for regulatory reasons. Here are all the details. Also Read | Paytm Lite: What Is It? How To Setup And Use Paytm Lite On Smartphones?

Migration To New UPI Handles

Due to regulatory restrictions, Paytm can no longer use its in-house @paytm virtual payments address for UPI services. Consequently, the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) has granted Paytm TPAP status. This status enables Paytm to transition its users to new UPI handles.

Impact On Users

Previously, Paytm users had UPI addresses ending with ‘@paytm’. Now, Paytm is partnering with four banks: SBI, Axis Bank, HDFC Bank, and Yes Bank, to offer UPI services. Users will now have new UPI handles ending with ‘@ptsbi’, ‘@ptyes’, ‘@pthdfc’, or ‘@ptaxis’.

Automatic Transition Process

The migration to new UPI handles is automatic for users. They don’t need to take any additional steps. Users can continue using the app for regular UPI payments and other services.

Unaffected Services

Functions like bill payments, recharges, and booking services remain unaffected. Users can link external bank accounts to pay for these services.

Also Read | Want To Make Paytm UPI Payments To Non-Paytm Users? Here’s The Trick

Things To Check After Migration

Despite the seamless transition promised by Paytm, users should check for certain things. Active UPI mandates with the old ‘@paytm’ address may fail, depending on the merchant. Users should also update their QR codes and inform contacts of the new UPI handle to avoid transaction failures.

Consequences Of Old UPI Handles

After receiving a new UPI handle, the old ‘@paytm’ VPA will cease to work. Transactions attempted with the old handle will fail, and users must ensure others use the new UPI handle for payments.