OpenAI has made a bold move in the tech world by officially launching its own AI-driven web browser, ChatGPT Atlas. The new browser marks OpenAI’s entry into the competitive browser market dominated by Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, and Safari. However, Atlas stands out by fusing the power of ChatGPT’s conversational intelligence and AI agents directly into the browsing experience, promising a smarter, faster, and more interactive way to explore the internet. ChatGPT Atlas can now be downloaded for free by macOS users globally, with Windows, iOS, and Android versions coming out shortly. Although all users are free to use the browser's main AI features, OpenAI is holding back some of its most advanced instruments, such as the Agent Mode, for ChatGPT Plus, Pro, and Business subscribers. On the surface, ChatGPT Atlas is reminiscent of the look and feel of old-school browsers. It has tabs, bookmarks, history, downloads, and incognito mode, so those users who have used Chrome or Edge will not feel lost. But under this familiar skin is a significant improvement deep integration with ChatGPT that changes the way that users can use the web. From summarizing websites and fine-tuning text to conversing with search results or directly with sites, Atlas puts ChatGPT at the front of each browsing experience. A clean sidebar or dual-screen mode keeps ChatGPT within view, available to aid without intruding on your workflow. One of the standout features of Atlas is the new “cursor chat” tool, which lets users summon ChatGPT anywhere on the web. Whether you’re writing an email, filling a form, or drafting a blog post, Atlas can provide real-time writing assistance inline no need to switch tabs or copy text into a chatbot. Moreover, Memory support in Atlas enables it to retain context from previous sessions. This implies that it may remember user preferences, prior queries, and current projects to offer more tailored help. For privacy-conscious users, memory can be totally controlled or turned off in the browser settings, providing complete control over what's stored. For Agent Mode, available to ChatGPT Plus, Pro, and Business subscribers, there is an additional layer of automation introduced to the browsing process. Using this mode, users can teach the inbuilt ChatGPT Agent to automate some small, browser-based tasks like booking tickets, editing documents online, or filling out repetitive forms. Significantly, OpenAI has prioritized security and privacy when it comes to Agent Mode. The AI agent operates in a secure sandbox environment, such that it cannot run code, download files, install extensions, or access local information such as passwords or saved files. Further, any site opened in Agent Mode is not stored in the browsing history, ensuring complete secrecy in interactions. With ChatGPT Atlas, OpenAI isn't introducing a new browser – it's issuing a direct challenge to Google's search and browser supremacy. By placing AI at every step of the browsing experience, OpenAI is positioning Atlas as users' browser of choice if they care about productivity, personalization, and conversational smarts. Atlas also enters the growing market of AI-driven browsers such as Perplexity’s Comet, The Browser Company’s Dia, and Opera Neon, all of which are exploring how artificial intelligence can enhance everyday browsing. OpenAI’s massive user base and integration with the ChatGPT ecosystem give it a significant advantage in this race. In order to facilitate adoption, OpenAI is providing a one-time seven-day ChatGPT rate limit increase for those who make Atlas their default browser on macOS. This allows users to have more ChatGPT interactions and quicker response times throughout the trial phase, giving them access to the full possibilities of an AI-first browser. The release of ChatGPT Atlas is not only another product launch it's a preview of what the future holds for human interaction with the internet. Rather than search, click, and filter results by hand, users are now able to converse with their browser, summarize lengthy articles in an instant, or even automate mundane online tasks all within a secure, familiar environment. As OpenAI develops Atlas further across platforms, it may very well revolutionize the browser space, indeed merging the distinction between AI assistants and conventional browsers. With Atlas, OpenAI is signaling: the future of web browsing is not merely about speed, it's about intelligence, context, and conversation.

Realme has yet again set the bar high in the mid-premium space with the release of its Realme GT 8 in China. The phone comes loaded with best-of-breed features such as the Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, a humongous 7000mAh battery, and a 2K OLED 144Hz screen, all for a converted price of approximately ₹35,000. With these offerings, Realme appears set to challenge time-tested flagships while maintaining price surprisingly in check. Realme GT 8 Overview Display : 6.79″ flat 2K OLED (≈ 2260 × … resolution) with 144 Hz refresh rate and extremely high peak brightness (~2000 nits or more). Processor : Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset (the latest top-tier Qualcomm chip) paired with a dedicated graphics chip. Memory & Storage : Supports LPDDR5x RAM and UFS 4.0 storage. Rear Cameras : 50 MP main sensor with OIS, 8 MP ultrawide, and 50 MP periscope telephoto. Front Camera : 16 MP selfie camera. Battery & Charging : 7000 mAh battery with 100 W (or around) fast wired charging. Connectivity & Misc : Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6.0, NFC, dual stereo speakers, 3D ultrasonic in-display fingerprint scanner, X-axis linear motor for haptics, IP68/IP69 rating for water & dust resistance. Software : Ships with Android 16 based on realme UI 7.0. Pricing (China) : Equivalent to around ₹35,000 (converted from Chinese launch). Colours : At least White, Navy Blue and Green hinted. A Breathtaking 2K OLED Display with 144Hz Refresh Rate The Realme GT 8 features a 6.79-inch 2K OLED Flat LTPS screen that provides ultra-smooth displays with a 144Hz refresh rate. The screen is 2000 nits peak brightness, promising great outdoor visibility even in direct sunlight. The flat screen allows it to be gamer-friendly as well as ideal for multimedia users who enjoy edge-free immersive viewing. Whether it is gaming, HDR video watching, or social media scrolling, the Realme GT 8's screen delivers a flagship-grade visual experience. Snapdragon 8 Elite with Dedicated Graphics Chip It has at its core the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen processor, Qualcomm's newest and most advanced chipset aimed for ultra-performance smartphones. This goes hand in hand with a dedicated graphics processor, optimizing the speed of rendering and ensuring stable frame rates when under heavy gaming loads. For multitasking and heavy use, the phone features LPDDR5x RAM and UFS 4.0 storage, providing instant app launches and disruption-free background performance. Together, these hardware features make the GT 8 one of the fastest phones in its category — a perfect choice for gamers, creators, and power users. Triple Camera Setup with 50MP Periscope Lens Within the camera section, the Realme GT 8 features a powerful triple-camera module at the back. It comes with a 50MP primary sensor boasting OIS (Optical Image Stabilization) for highly detailed and stable images, an 8MP ultra-wide-angle sensor for capturing broad scenes, and a 50MP periscope telephoto lens for excellent zoom functionality. At the front, the phone features a 16MP front camera, which can shoot natural-looking portraits and sharp selfies in dim conditions. Having a periscope lens at this price makes the GT 8 stand out from most of its peers, with true flagship-class photography capabilities. Huge 7000mAh Battery with 100W Fast Charging Battery life is another sector where the Realme GT 8 excels. It has a gargantuan 7000mAh battery, among the biggest in the segment, providing long screen times for gaming, watching videos, and productivity. With the support of 100W fast charging, the phone can charge in minutes — a real lifesaver for users with busy lifestyles. This combination of charging speed and battery capacity makes Realme GT 8 ideal for users who need it most. Premium Features and Durability Realme spared no expense when it came to premium features. The GT 8 comes equipped with a 3D Ultrasonic Fingerprint sensor for quicker and more secure unlocking, dual stereo speakers for a true-to-life audio experience, and an X-axis linear motor for more realistic haptic feedback in gaming and typing. It also has IP68 and IP69 ratings, providing dust and water resistance, further adding to its durability and reliability. Connectivity and Software The Realme GT 8 features the latest connectivity protocols Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6.0, and NFC for seamless high-speed communication between devices. In the software department, it comes with Android 16 operating system based on Realme UI 7, offering users better customization options, improved animations, and enhanced system efficiency. Pricing and Availability The Realme GT 8 has been released in China at a price that is the equivalent of about ₹35,000 in India (converted). Although Realme hasn't officially announced its India launch, this aggressive pricing suggests the company's intent to take over the upper mid-range segment by providing flagships-level features at an unbeatable price. The Realme GT 8 is turning out to be one of the most anticipated phones of 2025. With its Snapdragon 8 Elite chip, high-end design, outstanding display, and humongous 7000mAh battery, it is actually a performance monster at ₹35K or less. If Realme ever brings it to India in the near future, it might easily set a new standard for the price-to-performance ratio in the phone segment.

iQOO has introduced a collection of high-performance new products in China the iQOO Pad 5e, iQOO Watch GT 2, and iQOO TWS 5 building on its expanding smart device ecosystem. Given the iQOO 15 flagship smartphone already leading the performance benchmark, these new products reinforce iQOO's mission to build an interconnected tech space for performance-oriented users. Let's get into all the details of all these new iQOO releases from the immersive Pad 5e to the sporty Watch GT 2 and the cutting-edge TWS 5 earbuds. iQOO Pad 5e The iQOO Pad 5e is an efficient and fashionable tablet made to serve productivity and entertainment purposes equally well. With a 12.1-inch 2.8K LCD screen that boasts a 144Hz refresh rate and 900 nits of peak brightness, the device promises crisp visuals, silky-smooth motion, and breathtaking color accuracy. Whether streaming high-definition content, playing games, or working on creative pursuits, the Pad 5e provides impeccable clarity and responsiveness. Underpinned at its heart by the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 chipset, the tablet comes with LPDDR5X RAM and UFS 4.1 storage (the 128GB model being based on UFS 3.1). This setup provides top speeds, delay-free response times, and high efficiency — perfect for multitasking, gaming, and video production. The phone comes with a massive 10,000mAh battery powered by 44W fast charging, offering all-day performance with rapid recharges. Based on OriginOS 5 HD, it includes an optimized interface, multitasking improvements, and cross-device connectivity across iQOO smartphones like the iQOO 15. The tablet is 6.62mm thick and weighs only 584g, which gives a premium experience along with great portability. It also features Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.4, and a USB 2.0 Type-C port to provide great connectivity in all conditions. Price for the Pad 5e is as follows: 8GB + 128GB - ¥1999 8GB + 128GB (Soft Light Version) - ¥2199 Also Read: Redmi K90 Pro Max Redefines Flagship Power with Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen5 and Stunning OLED Display iQOO Watch GT 2 Completing the roster is the iQOO Watch GT 2, the company's new smartwatch that is both stylish and practical. The Watch GT 2 is available at ¥499 for the base model and ¥699 for the eSIM version, and it has smart health monitoring, fitness functions, and standalone calling features for those needing independence from their phone. Though iQOO hasn't officially revealed the complete spec sheet as of now, the Watch GT 2 should deliver sophisticated fitness tracking, heart rate and SpO₂ monitoring, and AI-driven health recommendations. The eSIM variant also enables users to accept and initiate calls right from their wrist, making it suitable for workouts, commutes, or hands-free calling. With a refined circular face, personalizable watch screens, and longer battery life, the Watch GT 2 neatly nestles itself into iQOO's growing AIoT ecosystem, complementing both Pad 5e and iQOO 15 smartphone. iQOO TWS 5 The brand-new iQOO TWS 5 wireless earbuds, which retail at ¥399, offer an immersive and balanced listening experience with smart tuning of the sound. Designed for both gamers and music fans, the TWS 5 features low latency, rich bass, and crisp mids and highs through the use of powerful drivers and AI-powered sound enhancement. These earphones should also come with active noise cancellation (ANC), environmental noise control, and long battery life, so they can be used for everyday listening as well as gaming sessions. With Bluetooth 5.4 connectivity, the iQOO TWS 5 provides seamless pairing, reliable connections, and low audio delay. For existing owners of the iQOO 15 smartphone or iQOO Pad 5e, the TWS 5 complements them perfectly, with smooth integration to offer homogeneous connectivity and intelligent control across devices. Also Read: Vivo X300 Series to Debut Sony’s LYT-828 Camera Sensor and MediaTek Dimensity 9500 Chipset Smooth Performance Across Devices The debut of the iQOO Pad 5e, Watch GT 2, and TWS 5 highlights iQOO's vision to create a holistic ecosystem that enables greater productivity, entertainment, and health. Coupled with the recently introduced iQOO 15, which comes with the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, 144Hz 2K screen, and 7000mAh battery, iQOO now has an entire range of smart devices for every aspect of today's digital lifestyle. Whether gaming on the iQOO 15, streaming on the iQOO Pad 5e, monitoring health on the iQOO Watch GT 2, or music with the iQOO TWS 5 the company's ecosystem guarantees seamless interaction, uniform design, and excellent performance on all devices. With the iQOO Pad 5e, Watch GT 2, and TWS 5, iQOO has ventured out of smartphones to offer a connected ecosystem of technology with style, innovation, and performance. The Pad 5e stands out with its 2.8K 144Hz screen and Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 chipset, while the Watch GT 2 offers intelligent health and communication capabilities at an affordable price point. The TWS 5 earphones round out the experience with superior sound and smart noise control. If you're searching for a 2025 performance-based ecosystem, iQOO's new launches and most notably the iQOO 15 flagship are definitely something you should consider. Check out the full iQOO 15 launch coverage on AndroBranch where we break down its Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 performance, 144Hz 2K screen, and gaming-tier cooling system.

The highly-awaited iQOO 15 has now been launched in China, revolutionizing flagship smartphone performance with next-gen power, display excellence, and groundbreaking cooling technology. Loaded with the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, a Q3 gaming processor, and UFS 4.1 storage, the phone is a real gaming and performance monster. In addition to this, it features a mind-blowing 7000mAh Blue Ocean battery, a Samsung 2K LTPO 144Hz display, and a three 50MP camera system making this one of the most powerful phones of 2025. Processor and Performance The iQOO 15 is equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor, along with the Q3 gaming chip and QNSS super rendering engine, to provide extremely smooth gaming and multitasking experiences. LPDDR5X Ultra RAM and UFS 4.1 storage are included, which provide lightning-fast app opening, smooth multitasking, and faster data transfer speeds. The standout feature, though, is the in-house-developed full-scene Ray Tracing engine, which renders console-grade graphics and realistic lighting effects in-game. With 2K resolution supported at 144FPS, the iQOO 15 offers a gaming experience that is smooth, immersive, and visually breathtaking. In order to avoid overheating under intense usage, iQOO incorporates the 8K VC Ice Dome cooling system the largest single-layer VC available in the market, boasting a heat transfer area of more than 14,000mm². Supported by the Universal Esports Network System 2.0, the smartphone provides balanced frame rates and minimal latency and is thus a gamer's delight on mobile phones. Display At the front, iQOO 15 boasts a 6.85-inch 2K Samsung Everest 8T LTPO screen. With 144Hz refresh rate and 508 PPI, each frame appears sharp, smooth, and alive. The screen reaches a top brightness level of 2600 nits, so it's very easy to read even in direct sunlight. iQOO didn't leave it at that the screen is 118% P3 wide color gamut, Dolby Vision, and hardware-based low blue light protection, TÜV Rheinland-certified for flicker-free and eye-safe viewing. Additionally, with 2160Hz PWM + DC Dimming, users experience less eye fatigue with extended viewing or gaming sessions. Energy Aura and screen lighting effects give the device a futuristic vibe, balancing looks and functionality. Battery and Charging Battery life is another huge plus point. The iQOO 15 features a humongous 7000mAh single-cell Blue Ocean battery, backed by 4th-gen silicon anode and 2nd-gen semi-solid-state battery technology. Even with the big battery, the phone still has an incredibly thin profile. Charging is also stunning 100W FlashCharge replenishes the phone in minutes, and 40W wireless charging offers cable-free convenience. It is also PPS and PD fast charging compatible as well as supporting smart bypass charging, which conserves battery life when playing games or streaming for an extended period. Audio and Haptics The iQOO 15 brings an innovative audio system featuring 1511 War Drum Master speakers and the world's first Warhammer MAX dual-axis vibration motor. In combination, they provide immersive and responsive feedback that creates better gameplay and multimedia immersion. The Drum Master Symmetrical Dual Speakers Pro guarantees a 25% broader soundstage and 120% louder sound signal strength, while the Gaming Super-sensitive Sound Field brings surround-sound-like immersion directly into your hands — ideal for gamers requiring precision and impact. Camera In camera technology, the iQOO 15 boasts a triple 50MP setup — with Sony main sensor equipped with ultra-shake resistance, a 50MP ultra-wide-angle lens, and a 50MP Sony Pro-grade periscope telephoto lens for amazing zoom and detail. The camera system is powered by iQOO's NICE algorithm and massive-scale image enhancement technology, which provides vivid, clear, and lifelike shots even under harsh lighting. The inclusion of features such as Live Photo, AI visual effects, and a new 85mm racing portrait mode makes the iQOO 15 a top performer both for photos and video. There is a 32MP front camera for selfies, which captures crystal-clear portraits with realistic skin tones and depth mapping. Software Powered on Android 16 with OriginOS 6, iQOO 15 introduces an ultra-smooth and highly optimized user experience. The design is geared for speed, customization, and low resource usage marrying the raw power of the hardware. Pricing and Variants The iQOO 15 comes in multiple configurations to suit different needs and budgets: 12GB + 256GB - ¥4199 12GB + 512GB - ¥4699 16GB + 256GB - ¥4499 16GB + 512GB - ¥5499 16GB + 1TB (LPDDR5X Ultra Pro) - ¥5499 Limited Edition - ¥5499 Considering its specifications, the pricing is extremely competitive, offering unmatched value for a flagship in its class. The iQOO 15 is a bold statement in mobile technology combining elite performance, stunning visuals, massive battery life, and next-gen cooling. Whether you’re a hardcore gamer, content creator, or flagship enthusiast, this device checks every box. With its cutting-edge Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor, 144Hz 2K display, and 7000mAh battery, iQOO 15 stands tall as one of the most powerful Android smartphones of 2025.

Xiaomi’s sub-brand Redmi has taken smartphone innovation to another level with the Redmi K90 Pro Max, a powerhouse that blends raw performance, advanced cooling, and industry-leading display technology. Built around the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen5 chipset, the device promises lightning-fast performance for gaming, multitasking, and high-end AI processing. Redmi has also added a line-up of next-generation features like a dedicated AI-driven graphics processor, a huge 7560mAh battery, and a visually appealing TCL Huaxing OLED display, bringing the K90 Pro Max to the list of the most ambitious Redmi smartphones ever made. Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen5 At the heart of the Redmi K90 Pro Max lies the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen5, Qualcomm’s most powerful mobile processor yet. This chip delivers exceptional CPU and GPU performance, optimized for demanding tasks such as 4K gaming, real-time ray tracing, and AI-based enhancements. Combined with Redmi’s AI-powered Independent Graphics Chip D2, the phone offers smoother frame rates and enhanced visual effects, even during heavy gaming or high-performance workloads. What really distinguishes it is Super-Resolution support at the hardware level, which enables the phone to upscale content in real-time without ever sacrificing battery life. This makes the K90 Pro Max the perfect choice for gamers, content creators, and power users who need the best that processing has to offer. Advanced Cooling System: Power Under Control High performance demands efficient thermal management and Redmi has addressed that brilliantly. The K90 Pro Max features Xiaomi’s largest-ever 3D Ice-Cooling Cycle Cooling Pump, boasting an impressive 6700mm² area. This advanced heat dissipation system ensures that the device remains cool even during extended gaming sessions or multitasking marathons. This cutting-edge technology pumps coolant through the inner components of the phone, ensuring reliable performance and safeguarding sensitive electronics against overheating. It's an engineering marvel that pairs with the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen5's sheer power beautifully. Display Brilliance The Redmi K90 Pro Max doesn’t just perform it dazzles. It sports a massive 6.9-inch TCL Huaxing M10 Real RGB OLED display, designed for vivid visuals, deep blacks, and lifelike colors. The inclusion of Super Pixel Technology ensures that each pixel delivers enhanced sharpness and detail, whether you’re streaming HDR content, gaming, or editing photos. Redmi has also made eye comfort a priority by adding Xiaomi Qingshan Eye Protection 3.0, 1nit ultra-dark light protection, full brightness DC dimming, and circularly polarized light 2.0. These technologies reduce eye strain and flicker, providing a comfortable viewing experience even for extended periods of use. Photography Reinvented When photography is concerned, the Redmi K90 Pro Max makes a powerful statement. It comes with an ultra-high 1/1.31″ primary sensor, the very same "Light Hunter 950" available with the Xiaomi 17 Series. It is a high-dynamic range sensor that provides mesmerizing clarity, better low-light capabilities, and actual-to-life color accuracy. The gadget has 5x optical zoom and 10x lossless zoom, enabling users to shoot faraway objects with incredible clarity. Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) guarantees blur-free photographs and stabilized videos even when in motion. Furthermore, the lens configuration features a 1G+6P glass-plastic hybrid structure, which dissipates glare and lens flare considerably, yielding cleaner and crisper images. With 13.5EV HDR and DXG high dynamic technology, the K90 Pro Max delivers well-balanced exposure and natural contrast in every image a true camera flagship. Battery and Charging Firing up the Redmi K90 Pro Max is a whoppin' 7560mAh battery, one of the largest in the market. This battery guarantees longer screen-on time for gamers, streamers, and general users alike. Redmi has complemented this enormous capacity with 100W wired fast charging, 50W wireless charging, and even 22.5W reverse charging, enabling the phone to be used as a power bank for other devices. This tri-mode charging capability provides total flexibility and convenience. Whether topping up wirelessly or inserted for a speedy top-up, the Redmi K90 Pro Max powers you throughout the day with minimal downtime. The Redmi K90 Pro Max is not merely a flagship it's a declaration of tech supremacy. With its Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen5 processor, revolutionary cooling system, next-generation display, and camera setup comparable to professional equipment, it's a phone for the enthusiast who expects greatness in every aspect. Redmi’s focus on blending power, innovation, and user comfort truly shines through in this device. Whether you’re a gamer, photographer, or power user, the K90 Pro Max delivers an uncompromised experience that sets a new standard for premium smartphones.

Proton, the Swiss privacy-oriented tech firm behind popular services such as Proton Mail and Proton VPN, has officially launched version 1.2 of its AI assistant, Lumo. The new release brings in two of the most sought-after features Dark Mode and Customizable Writing Styles, making Lumo more personalized, flexible, and user-friendly than ever. A More Personalized Look with Dark Mode Lumo 1.2 users now have the ability to change between light and dark themes seamlessly, so the interface can be set to either their preference or system mode. This not only helps with visual comfort for extended work sessions but also brings the design language of Lumo in line with other Proton applications to provide a cohesive ecosystem experience. Dark Mode has become an essential preference for many users today reducing eye strain and offering a sleek, modern aesthetic. For privacy-focused users who already rely on Proton’s suite of secure apps, this update ensures consistency across platforms, whether you’re using Proton Mail, Proton Drive, or now, Lumo. Customizable Writing Styles for Smarter Conversations Yet another highlight in Lumo 1.2 is support for custom writing styles. Users can now tailor Lumo's tone and writing style in relation to their needs in writing from serious business writing to informal, conversational styles. This personalization feature makes Lumo not just an assistant, but a genuine AI writing companion for both everyday and professional tasks. Whether you’re drafting emails, generating creative ideas, or working on complex research summaries, Lumo adapts its writing approach for the best results. Continued Proton Drive Integration for Smarter Context As with the previous iteration, Proton Lumo still includes Proton Drive integration, allowing users to attach or detach documents and PDFs within chats. This enables Lumo to take advantage of more precise context, ensuring more accurate, dependable results are delivered while maintaining full user control over shared files. This integration extends the reasoning and knowledge enhancements first released in Lumo version 1.1, further sharpening the way Lumo comprehends and responds to user requests becoming increasingly smarter, faster, and more intuitive with each use. Complete Privacy: Zero-Access Encryption Remaining committed to Proton's fundamental mission of privacy, all personalization and chat functionality is safeguarded with zero-access encryption. What this implies is that Proton cannot see or read any of your chat information, and none of your logs are stored or utilized for AI training. Unlike other mass-market AI assistants, Lumo guarantees that your data is always yours completely private and end-to-end encrypted. This continues to distinguish Proton from other AI service providers who tend to prioritize personalization over privacy. Introducing Lumo Plus: A Premium Experience While all the new features of Lumo 1.2 are free for all users, Proton has also unveiled a new Lumo Plus subscription plan. Available as a standalone option or an add-on, Lumo Plus unlocks: Faster response speeds Expanded working memory Unlimited chat usage That is, users no longer need to depend on Proton's current Unlimited, Family, or Duo plans for using the improved AI features they can just subscribe to Lumo Plus on its own for an optimized, premium experience. With the 1.2 update, Proton again shows that privacy and innovation can go hand-in-hand. Lumo's progression shows Proton's continued efforts to provide ethical AI tools — ones that can value transparency, user control, and security without sacrificing performance. As AI assistants become a natural part of everyday workflows, Proton's approach to privacy makes Lumo 1.2 a strong choice for users who care about both efficiency and data safety.

Microsoft is stepping up its AI assistant, Copilot, to new heights with a big worldwide launch across Windows 11. This release brings three robust new features Copilot Vision, "Hey Copilot" voice commands, and Copilot Actions each working to make PCs easier, hands-free, and smarter. Combined, they represent a big step forward for Microsoft's vision to embed artificial intelligence at the core of Windows. Copilot Actions: AI That Takes Action on Your Command Perhaps the most significant feature is Copilot Actions, a new feature that enables the AI assistant to execute actual tasks on your Windows machine directly. This is not simply answering questions Copilot can open applications, scroll, type, edit documents, send messages, and even execute multi-step activities, all via natural voice commands. For example, you can ask Copilot to "open Word and write an email," and it will execute the process effortlessly. These operations are performed in a secure "Agent Workspace", which means the assistant is running in a limited environment with minimal privileges. Crucially, Copilot always asks for user authorization before accessing local files or performing any system updates keeping privacy and security of utmost importance. "Hey Copilot": Hands-Free AI Activation Microsoft has also added "Hey Copilot", a new voice wake-up capability which lets users summon the assistant without physically touching their keyboard or mouse. After enabling it, users can just utter the words "Hey Copilot" to wake up the assistant, followed by a quick chime and a small microphone window popping up on screen and waiting to receive commands. This feature renders navigation through Copilot quicker and more intuitive, particularly for accessibility customers or professionals operating within multitask environments. That said, Microsoft points out that the feature is turned off by default it has to be manually enabled and needs both a microphone as well as an ongoing internet connection. Copilot Vision: Real-Time Desktop Understanding One of the most revolutionary updates is Copilot Vision, which is released worldwide in all markets. The feature allows users to share their desktop or applications with Copilot to receive real-time analysis and contextual guidance. With Vision, Copilot can read on-screen material, respond to user queries, and offer step-by-step instructions through its Highlights feature. For instance, while editing a document or working with complicated spreadsheets, Copilot is able to recognize visual objects on screen and recommend smart next actions. When combined with Microsoft 365 apps such as Word and PowerPoint, Copilot Vision can go even further examining entire documents, rather than just the portion on the screen. Microsoft is also experimenting with a "Text-in Text-out" mode, where users can interact with Copilot through typed conversations during Vision sessions, increasing flexibility and control even more. Copilot to the Taskbar Search Bar Microsoft is also simplifying accessing Copilot anywhere in Windows 11 by incorporating it directly into the taskbar's search bar. Users are able to get immediate results for apps, files, and settings, as well as direct shortcuts to Copilot tools. Notably, Microsoft stresses that Copilot does not have unfettered access to personal documents or sensitive information. All interactions occur through Windows Search APIs that already exist, making sure the assistant can only interact with data or applications after obtaining specific user authorization. A Step Toward an AI-Driven Windows Experience With this release, Microsoft is-positioning Copilot firmly as the AI centerpiece of Windows 11 able to see, understand, and act on the desktop. Hands-free command via "Hey Copilot," on-screen intelligent cues through Copilot Vision, or automatic task handling with Copilot Actions, users can now enjoy a more intelligent, secure, and less fragmented computing experience. These capabilities together embody Microsoft's long-term vision for AI-based personal computing, where the assistant is more than a helper but an engaged partner in day-to-day digital life. In short, Copilot Vision, "Hey Copilot," and Copilot Actions' global availability are a big step forward for Windows 11 users. With design centered around privacy, protected permissions, and next-generation AI capabilities, Microsoft is changing the definition of how one works and communicates with a computer in the age of AI.

This expansion reflects Meta’s commitment to ensuring that users worldwide especially those in regions with stricter data regulations can enjoy consistent communication tools within the Threads ecosystem. Building Better Conversations Around Shared Interests Meta's recent changes seek to simplify how users communicate, share, and talk about their passion points. Through group chats, users can now gather those who have common interests, be it tech, style, gaming, or news. The feature is intended to facilitate richer, continuous conversations, providing Threads with a more communal feel than other text platforms. By keeping the messaging in and of Threads, Meta minimizes the amount of back-and-forth switching between different apps required to stay in touch. This combined communication platform fits with Meta's overall plan to create seamless cross-platform experiences across its family of products, including Instagram and Messenger. A Step Forward in Threads' Global Growth Since it was launched, Threads has been gradually growing into a strong social conversation platform from the original idea of being a Twitter (now X) alternative. With every new release from enhanced discovery features to improved conversation management Meta continues to make Threads a go-to platform for open talk and genuine interaction. The introduction of group chats not only raises the bar for user experience but also solidifies Threads' place in the crowded social media arena. It gives users the space where microblogging converges with substance, allowing more individuals to connect over ideas that count. Meta's most recent rollout demonstrates its long-term vision for building Threads into a full-fledged communication platform. With group conversations, privacy-driven features, and greater global reach, Threads is slowly bridging the divide between social networking and private messaging creating space that fosters both expression and connection. For users, it translates to one thing: more ways to engage, share, and remain connected all contained within a single app.

OnePlus has initiated its Diwali Special Sale officially, from October 17, through OnePlus.in, Amazon, Flipkart, and physical stores. During this festive season, the company is offering some of the largest discounts of the year on its smartphones, tablets, and audio products and it's the best time for enthusiasts to update their tech arsenal. Big Discounts on OnePlus Smartphones Headlining the lineup is the OnePlus 13 , priced at just ₹57,749 with a total discount of ₹4,250. The OnePlus 13R also experiences an even deeper price cut, now priced at ₹35,749 onwards with bundled bank and festive offers amounting to ₹7,250. The OnePlus 13s , on the other hand, are priced at ₹47,749 with a ₹3,250 discount. For frugal shoppers, the OnePlus Nord 5 now costs just ₹28,999, and the OnePlus Nord CE5 is priced at an irresistible ₹21,999. These offers make OnePlus premium performance within everyone's reach during this Diwali. OnePlus Pad Series OnePlus tablet series also participates in the festive mood with compelling deals. The OnePlus Pad 3 , which is a powerhouse, comes for ₹42,999 with a discount of ₹5,000 and one free OnePlus Stylus. The OnePlus Pad Lite, ideal for students and occasional users, comes for ₹11,999, with a free Bullets Z3 wireless earphone and ₹2,000 off. Those seeking productivity on the move can pick up the OnePlus Pad 2 from ₹29,999 onwards (₹3,000 down), or the OnePlus Pad Go from ₹13,999 onwards (₹2,000 down). Audio Devices at Steal Prices OnePlus music enthusiasts are treated as well. The OnePlus Buds 4 now cost only ₹4,799, while the top-of-the-line Buds Pro 3 receive a price reduction to ₹7,999. The Nord Buds 3r are at an unbeatable ₹1,499, providing amazing value for people who listen to music on a daily basis. As an added bonus, the OnePlus Bullets Wireless Z3 are available for as little as ₹1,149, proving to be an excellent add-on with any OnePlus phone purchase. Where to Buy All these deals are live from October 17 on OnePlus.in, Amazon, Flipkart, and offline retail stores across India. The deals are up for grabs for a limited period, so enthusiasts are requested to pick their favorite devices before stocks are exhausted. With a mix of high-end smartphones, value tablets, and premium audio gear, OnePlus is truly celebrating Diwali with its customers in style. Whether you’re upgrading your daily driver or gifting someone special, these OnePlus Diwali offers provide the perfect opportunity to own cutting-edge technology at the best prices of the year.

Mobility app Rapido is making a huge leap ahead in its quest to make travelling easier across India. The company has made new strategic partnerships with prominent travel service operators Goibibo, redBus, and Confirmtkt incorporating their services within the Rapido application directly. With this, Rapido intends to upgrade from being merely a daily commute app to a one-stop-shop travelling solution for travelling millions of users across the country. Rapido Extends Beyond Rides: Seamless Travel Experience The new additions will enable Rapido users to view an array of travel services including everyday rides as well as inter-city trips all in one app. The partnership with Goibibo introduces flight and hotel bookings, while associations with redBus and Confirmtkt introduce inter-city bus and train ticket booking services within the app. This expansion is a part of Rapido's overall vision to close the gap between daily mobility and inter-city long-distance travel for its five crore active users in over 400 Indian cities. Rapido Aims at 10 Crore Digital Travel Consumers As per a release given to PTI, Rapido hopes to onboard as many as 10 crore digital travel consumers through this strategic association. The company will do this by combining day-to-day mobility solutions such as bike taxis and auto rides with long-distance travel services through a single interface. To facilitate this integration for easy use, Rapido has introduced a new "Travel" menu on its home page, providing easy access to flights, hotels, train booking, and bus booking. Aravind Sanka: "Shaping the Future of Mobility and Travel" In his statement, Rapido Co-Founder Aravind Sanka reiterated that this move is in sync with the company's long-term vision of simplifying and making travel accessible to all. “With this launch, we are taking a bold step forward by extending that promise from daily commutes to long-distance journeys,” said Sanka. “What excites us most is the opportunity to unlock travel for Bharat in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities where inclusivity, affordability, and trust matter most. From the first mile to the last mile, Rapido is shaping the future of mobility and travel as a true one-stop partner for every Indian.” Sanka also expressed his gratitude to the company’s partners for strengthening Rapido’s vision and contributing to this milestone transformation. Confirmtkt and ixigo Trains CEO Applauds the Partnership Dinesh Kumar Kotha, CEO of Confirmtkt and ixigo Trains, also shared his excitement about the partnership: “At Confirmtkt, we have always focused on making train travel seamless and accessible for every Indian. This partnership with Rapido extends that vision to millions of new users, allowing them to plan and book train journeys with greater ease and confidence. By bringing trains into the Rapido ecosystem, we are collectively enhancing convenience and affordability for travellers across the country.” With this significant upgrade, Rapido is making itself a super app for travel, merging local mobility with inter-city connectivity. This shift can especially serve users in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, where digital travel solutions are still evolving but the demand is growing fast. By providing everything from bike rides and cars to bus, train, and flight reservations — Rapido is not only growing its business model but also changing the dynamics of how Indians travel and move around. Rapido's integration with Goibibo, redBus, and Confirmtkt ushers in a new dawn for India's travel landscape. With its increasing user base, robust partnerships, and emphasis on accessibility and affordability, Rapido is well on its way to becoming India's go-to travel buddy an honest one-stop app for all mobility and travel requirements.

Spotify is in its usual position of pioneering how music listeners find and interact with music. The streaming giant has been working on a new capability called "SongDNA", aimed at enabling listeners to dig into songs based on their creative credits featuring everyone from authors and producers to vocalists, engineers, and composers. This engaging new feature may provide listeners with a more personal and informative means of connecting to favorite music while acknowledging the numerous individuals who contribute to each song. What Is Spotify's SongDNA? The SongDNA concept was revealed by reverse engineer Jane Manchun Wong, who posted screenshots of the then-early interface of the feature. SongDNA, according to her discovery, offers a visually engaging experience where users can browse through a song's credits and learn how artists and collaborators are interrelated. In Wong's demonstration, one of the examples presented was Rei Ami, a voice talent from the KPop Demon Hunters cast. The feature showed her contribution to other musical compositions aside from the movie, and users can follow her creative trail through different projects. This capacity to observe how different contributors are connected provides a new, web-like perspective on the music business. How SongDNA Works While the feature is still under development, SongDNA appears to function as an interactive credit explorer. Users could open a track’s SongDNA view to see detailed information about its creation listing the lyricists, producers, sound engineers, vocalists, composers, and more. Each person’s name could be clickable, leading to a page showcasing their other works or collaborations within Spotify’s ecosystem. Fundamentally, SongDNA seeks to bring the web of creativity between artists and music industry professionals to life, making users appreciate the extent of collaboration into each hit. SongDNA versus TIDAL's Interactive Credits If launched officially, SongDNA may be Spotify's direct response to TIDAL's interactive credits a feature that already lets users discover songs through the individuals who produced them. But perhaps due to its massive user population and sophisticated personalization features, SongDNA might be more accessible and implemented more broadly. Aside from passive listeners, this feature might be an asset for music industry professionals as well from producers seeking new partners to writers, teachers, and fans who wish to analyze the environment of music production. Confirmations and Clues from Reverse Engineers Soon after Jane Manchun Wong posted her screenshots, Spotify is said to have taken evidence of SongDNA out of its application in a later update. When asked for comment about the feature, Spotify refused to do so, providing neither confirmation nor denial — a standard practice when the company is experimenting with features internally. Interestingly enough, technologist Chris Messina subsequently acknowledged SongDNA's presence upon learning about similar code mentions. His interpretation was that the feature would enable users to uncover the pool of contributors responsible for each song and delve into their larger body of work. SongDNA vs. Pandora's Music Genome Project After these revelations, a number of users wondered if SongDNA is perhaps Spotify's answer to Pandora's Music Genome Project an entity that examines hundreds of musical descriptors to match similar tunes. But early indications are that SongDNA has nothing to do with the sound itself, but everything to do with the people who produce it. Whereas the Music Genome Project targets characteristics such as melody, rhythm, and harmony, SongDNA appears to plot human relationships and creative associations, providing a narrative-driven framework for music discovery. Why SongDNA Is Important to Artists and Audiences In the streaming era, the majority of listeners are familiar with the performing artist but never see the team behind the music. SongDNA has the potential to alter this by injecting transparency and gratitude into contributors working behind the scenes. For musicians, it's a way to introduce their music in more than one collaboration, even hoping to get new fans and professional contacts. For music fans, it's a way to discover songs through common creators, getting to know better the process of making music. Picture hearing a favorite song and having other tracks immediately available that were engineered by the same engineer or composed by the same lyricist SongDNA might make it seamless. Spotify's Continued Innovations in Music Discovery Spotify has, over the years, launched a number of features that seek to increase personalization and discovery from the AI DJ and smart mix features to Canvas visuals and artist stories. Adding SongDNA fits right into the mission of music discovery being more interactive, visual, and human. Even though there is no official launch announced yet, the rumors surrounding SongDNA suggest that Spotify is testing more immersive metadata-driven experiences, possibly revolutionizing the way users move through their beloved songs. Spotify's SongDNA can potentially be one of the greatest innovations in the service's history, uniting fans and artists. By emphasizing the complex web of collaborators who build every song, Spotify not only enhances user experience but also lends proper credit to the numerous people working behind the scenes. If and when SongDNA goes live, it will have the potential to revolutionize the way that millions of listeners worldwide discover, engage with, and fall in love with music — not only its sound, but also for the people and stories behind it.

Redmi is all set for a thrilling launch event in China as the company officially announces the arrival of the Redmi K90 Pro Max on October 23 at 7 PM local time (4:30 PM IST). The phone will be joined by the regular Redmi K90, creating the next-gen series of the brand's hit K-series. Preempting its launch, Redmi unveiled the first official design teasers, providing fans with a peek at the phone's distinctive looks and high-quality construction. Redmi K90 Design One of the most hyped features of the Redmi K90 Pro Max is its dual-tone denim-textured finish, which diverges from traditional smartphone finishes. Redmi has officially confirmed that the phone will have a textured denim blue finish alongside a middle frame and camera island made in silver color for subtle contrast. The brand says that the rear panel is covered with nano-leather material, which boasts improved durability and protection against UV rays, yellowing, and dust great for long-term usage. Apart from the denim-inspired blue, Redmi will also introduce a Flowing Gold White variant, offering a more classic look for users who prefer subtle elegance. The K90 Pro Max thus combines aesthetics and practicality, showing Redmi’s commitment to craftsmanship and innovation in design. Slim Bezels and Modern Display Design On the front, the Redmi K90 Pro Max continues Redmi’s legacy of immersive viewing experiences. The device features a center-aligned hole-punch cutout for the selfie camera, ensuring a sleek and modern appearance. The display is nearly bezel-less, offering ultra-slim and uniform edges that provide a seamless visual experience—perfect for gaming, streaming, and everyday multimedia use. Though display specs are kept under wraps, it's anticipated that the Redmi K90 Pro Max would have an AMOLED screen with a high refresh rate and HDR, adding to the premium flagship experience. Triple Camera Setup with Periscope Sensor The Redmi K90 Pro Max has a rectangular rear camera module with four circular cutouts in a 2×2 grid. Of these, three accommodate camera sensors, among which is a periscope telephoto lens, suggesting greater zooming capabilities. The fourth cutout could have a depth or color calibration sensor. An LED flash is discreetly placed at the center of the design, keeping the view aesthetically balanced. While Redmi has not revealed the camera details as yet, trade rumors indicate that the K90 Pro Max might include a flagship-class primary sensor, an ultra-high-resolution ultra-wide-angle lens, and a periscope zoom lens offering mammoth optical zoom capability. This trio is likely to provide professional-level photography and videography capabilities. Bose-Tuned Audio System for Immersive Sound Experience In a thrilling collaboration, Redmi has teamed up with Bose, a world-famous audio brand, to optimize the speakers of the Redmi K90 Pro Max. The teaser photo confirms a circular cutout alongside the camera module marked "Sound by Bose," assuring this high-end audio partnership. This alliance is designed to provide studio-grade sound, providing deeper bass, crisper highs, and well-balanced mids making the K90 Pro Max not only a beast in performance and visuals, but in immersive audio quality as well. Audiophiles will be treated to the ultimate multimedia experience out of the box. Powerful Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 Processor Beneath the hood, the Redmi K90 Pro Max will likely be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 SoC, the newest and most advanced mobile chipset from Qualcomm. Designed for flagship-grade performance, this processor is said to deliver lightning-fast speed, AI-boosted performance, and optimized thermal management—reassuring seamless multitasking and gaming. Paired with LPDDR5X RAM and UFS 4.0 storage, the K90 Pro Max will probably have scorching-fast app launching times and a generally smooth user experience. This chipset refresh is a huge performance jump over its antecedent, making the K90 Pro Max a legitimate flagship-level device. Charging and Estimated Battery Configuration Charging the device is a massive battery said to handle 100W wired fast charging, letting users top up their phone in record time. While the battery capacity itself has not been confirmed, Redmi flagships usually have 5,000mAh or more battery units providing users with all-day usage even under heavy loads. With effective power management and cutting-edge cooling technologies, the Redmi K90 Pro Max is engineered to reconcile world-class performance with solid battery life. Launch Event Details and Availability The Redmi K90 Pro Max will be launched in China on October 23, together with the Redmi K90. The event is scheduled at 7 PM CST (4:30 PM IST), when the company is likely to announce complete specifications, pricing, and global availability. Until now, Redmi has not announced if and when the K90 lineup will be launched in other regions, but given the success of past K-series devices, global versions with the POCO or Xiaomi brand may soon follow. From its denim-inspired look to Bose-tuned speakers and flagship-level Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor, the Redmi K90 Pro Max is turning out to be one of the most highly anticipated smartphone releases of 2025. Not only does it promise state-of-the-art performance but also fashion-forward and robust design that defies convention. With the official release days away, expectations are running high among enthusiasts and fans. Keep following AndroBranch for the full report and hands-on information once the Redmi K90 Pro Max officially arrives on the Chinese market.