OpenAI is preparing to make one of its most controversial yet highly anticipated changes to ChatGPT. According to CEO Sam Altman, the company will soon allow erotica and sexually explicit conversations within ChatGPT but strictly for verified adult users. The rollout is expected to begin in December, coinciding with the launch of OpenAI’s age verification system. Treating Adults as Adults Sam Altman emphasized that this decision stems from OpenAI’s core principle of “treating adult users as adults.” With the new policy, verified 18+ users will gain access to mature and adult-oriented experiences that were previously restricted. Altman noted that the company aims to create a safer yet more open environment where adults can engage in mature conversations responsibly. This update also aligns with OpenAI’s plan to enable developers to create adult-oriented ChatGPT apps. Once the necessary safety and verification systems are fully in place, developers will be able to build apps under the “18+ experiences” framework first introduced during DevDay 2025. This move could give rise to a new segment of AI applications focused on intimacy, relationships, and adult entertainment. A More Personable ChatGPT Experience Alongside policy reforms, OpenAI is developing a new iteration of ChatGPT that will be more natural, human-like, and conversational in tone, much like some of the older models that many users adored. Throughout the previous year, OpenAI had tightened its moderation features to mitigate worries regarding safety, disinformation, and mental well-being. Nevertheless, numerous users perceived that the stricter guidelines rendered ChatGPT less expressive and fun to interact with. Responding to these complaints, OpenAI has been working on sophisticated detection mechanisms to recognize users in distress and take action accordingly. OpenAI also aims to minimize sycophancy, which is a prevalent phenomenon of ChatGPT taking sides with users' dangerous or biased comments rather than giving well-balanced replies. Focus on Mental Health and Safety In order to uphold ethics in the introduction of adult material, OpenAI has established a Well-Being and AI Council. The new council consists of mental health experts, ethicists, and technical experts. The primary function of the council will be to regulate delicate and risky situations, ensuring that AI-created adult experiences do not spill into exploitation, coercion, or harm. All the same, OpenAI has not yet explained how its age verification system will work. Uncertainty lingers about whether or not verification will entail ID checks, third-party verification, or some other secure process. Likewise, it is unclear at this point if mature content will move beyond text to encompass voice or image models such as DALL·E or ChatGPT Voice. Competing Platforms Already Offer AI Adult Interactions OpenAI’s decision doesn’t come out of nowhere several AI platforms have already tapped into this growing market. Services like Character.ai and Grok by xAI allow users to engage in romantic or role-play conversations, which have proven highly popular. By comparison, OpenAI has historically taken a more conservative stance, prioritizing safety over freedom. But this latest change represents a dramatic milestone for how OpenAI weighs user liberty against accountability. With appropriate checks and balances of verification, moderation, and mental health protections, the next system could redefine what "mature AI interactions" are for adults globally. What to Expect Next As December approaches, more details about the ChatGPT age verification system, safety measures, and developer access policies are expected to emerge. If successfully implemented, OpenAI’s approach could set a new industry standard one that respects both adult autonomy and ethical AI design. For the moment, users can look forward to an even more human and expressive ChatGPT experience that not only aims to inform but to also understand, empathize, and connect on a deeper level responsibly.

Google has rolled out a limited-time offer on its Google Drive storage plans, giving users a chance to upgrade their cloud storage at unbelievably low prices. Whether you’re running out of space for photos, videos, or important documents, this is the perfect time to expand your Google Drive capacity without burning a hole in your pocket. Google Drive Storage Plans at Unbeatable Prices As a part of this offer, Google is offering humongous discounts for both monthly and annual Google Drive plans, for a limited time only. Premium cloud storage solutions are now available at just ₹10 per month to users. Here’s the full breakdown of the new discounted pricing: Monthly Plans (for 3 months): 30GB: ₹10/month 100GB: ₹10/month 200GB: ₹10/month Yearly Plans (for 12 months): 30GB: ₹479/year 100GB: ₹1,000/year 200GB: ₹1,600/year These amazing deals make Google Drive the most budget-friendly cloud storage on the market right now. The options are ideal for students, professionals, and content creators who use Google's cloud infrastructure to store big files securely and reliably. Offer Valid Till October 31 The special discounted offers are available only until October 31, and thus users must hurry. Google Drive plans will go back to normal prices after this date. To take advantage of the deal, just access the Google One app or the Google Drive storage webpage, select your preferred plan, and proceed with the purchase before the offer ends. Why Upgrade to Google Drive Storage? Google Drive does not simply provide additional space it provides convenience, security, and accessibility to your online life. With Google One, subscribers also have other advantages that include: Access to Google Photos backup using high-quality uploads. Easy integration with Docs, Sheets, Gmail, and other Google applications. Family sharing features (5 members maximum). 24/7 technical support from Google experts. With storage needs growing day by day, this temporary Google Drive discount is a golden chance to upgrade your plan with little expense. From protecting personal documents, archiving photos, or keeping work projects organized, Google's cloud storage keeps everything safe and just a click away on any device. Seize the offer by October 31 and enjoy premium cloud storage without ever running out of space again!

Google has officially announced Veo 3.1 and Veo 3.1 Fast, the latest versions of its advanced AI video generation models, now accessible through the Google Gemini app, Google Flow, Google AI Studio, and Vertex AI. Arriving just weeks after OpenAI’s Sora 2 debut, Google’s Veo 3.1 takes a major leap forward in realism, fidelity, and prompt accuracy, setting a new benchmark for AI-driven video creation. A Giant Step towards Realism and Fidelity Google further polishes how artificial intelligence reads and creates film-like content with Veo 3.1. The new version provides better-quality visuals, more realistic motion, and better scene continuity, solving earlier limitations in AI video creation. One of the most impressive features added to Veo 3.1 is native audio generation. The model can generate synchronized human-like natural speech and sound effects, so AI-generated videos look and feel more natural than ever. This feature significantly increases storytelling possibility for filmmakers, advertisers, and content creators across Google's platform. Both Landscape and Portrait Formats Support Echoing the increasing prevalence of short-form and mobile-centric content, Veo 3.1 introduces native support for 16:9 landscape and portrait orientations. This allows creators to create videos specifically for YouTube Shorts, Instagram Reels, TikTok, as well as standard widescreen film production. This freedom gives creators the ability to create platform-optimized videos from the model without the requirement to reformat or crop content, thus retaining full visual fidelity on any device. Also Read: PhonePe Launches India’s First SmartSpeaker with Built-in Tap-to-Pay Card Payments Reference Image Support for Character and Object Consistency Another interesting feature of Veo 3.1 is its consistency across numerous video clips. Three reference images can now be used by developers to lead the model enabling it to keep the same characters, objects, or artistic style intact during longer or multi-episode videos. This aspect is especially useful for narrative storytelling, brand content, or product explanations, where continuity of vision matters. In the past, achieving this kind of consistency between scenes was virtually impossible with AI video software, but Google's new system breaks that barrier with remarkable accuracy. Longer Scene Lengths with "Scene Extension" Feature Prior to this update, Veo videos were capped at 30-second clips. Google brings with Veo 3.1 a robust new scene extension feature. Developers are now able to create longer, uninterrupted videos by smoothly appending new clips to the previous scene's last frame, maintaining tone, composition, and motion flow. This development is a significant step towards allowing full-length AI-created movies or long-form narrative. With the new image referencing features, artists can now create extended stories that are coherent and cinematic in nature. Also Read: OnePlus 15 Redefines Flagship Design with Nano-Ceramic Frame and DetailMax Engine Cinematic Awareness and Artistic Control Veo 3.1 also exhibits a better appreciation for cinematic aesthetics, lighting, tone, and framing. This makes it possible for developers to more precisely control the mood and atmosphere of their videos whether they need a light, lively ad or a somber, emotional short film. Through better interpretation of prompts, Veo 3.1 provides users with a degree of creative agency similar to conventional video editing software, closing the loop between AI automation and human creativity. Veo 3.1 Powers Google Flow’s Enhanced Filmmaking Tools The update also powers Google Flow, the company’s experimental filmmaking tool, with new audio generation support across its key features “Ingredients to Video,” “Frames to Video,” and “Extend.” Creators can now: Upload custom images as starting or ending points for videos. Add or generate audio to match the visual tone. Create transitions between scenes for smoother storytelling. This integrated workflow allows for a more dynamic and complete video creation experience directly within Google’s creative suite. Veo 3.1 Fast Alongside the standard version, Google has also launched Veo 3.1 Fast, a streamlined variant designed for faster generation times and more affordable usage costs. Despite the speed optimization, it maintains the same quality baseline and model intelligence as Veo 3.1, making it ideal for developers who prioritize rapid iterations or high-volume content generation. Both Veo 3.1 and Veo 3.1 Fast are available through: Google Gemini app Google AI Studio Vertex AI They’re offered at the same pricing tier as Veo 3, making this upgrade highly accessible to existing users and developers. Also Read: OpenAI to Soon Enable UPI Payments in India Through ChatGPT with Razorpay and NPCI Google vs. OpenAI Veo 3.1’s launch comes hot on the heels of OpenAI’s Sora 2, signaling an intensifying rivalry between the two tech giants. While Sora 2 emphasizes ultra-realistic motion and physics-based rendering, Google’s Veo 3.1 counters with stronger creative control, audio generation, and format versatility crucial factors for both filmmakers and marketers. As AI video models continue to advance, the rivalry between OpenAI and Google will drive further innovations in AI storytelling, realism, and efficiency that will ultimately benefit creators everywhere. With Veo 3.1 and Veo 3.1 Fast, Google is redefining the limits of AI-produced filmmaking. With realistic imagery and synchronized audio, cross-format support, and effortless scene extension, these new features make video generation more intuitive, more powerful, and more cinematic than ever. While creators and developers open doors to what is possible in Gemini, Flow, and Vertex AI, Veo 3.1 represents a watermark in AI creativity that ushers us further towards a world where technology and storytelling seamlessly intertwine.

The countdown is nearly over! OPPO has officially announced that the OPPO Find X9 series will be launched in China on October 16th, 2025. This flagship series will comprise two models the OPPO Find X9 and OPPO Find X9 Pro and will set the bar for mobile photography anew. Prior to the launch, OPPO has already hinted at a few interesting details, including not just the look and color variants but also an exclusive professional camera kit that will take smartphone photography to an all-new level. OPPO Find X9 Pro Expected Launch Date: October 16, 2025 (China) Expected Variants: 12GB RAM (and possibly other configurations) Price in India: To be announced Status: Upcoming Flagship Smartphone Although OPPO hasn't officially announced the global release schedule, the excitement is running high for this new-generation camera-focused smartphone. Considering OPPO's past habit of taking its flagship series international, the Find X9 Pro may arrive in global markets shortly hopefully with the entire camera bundle in tow. Professional Camera Kit Powered by Hasselblad The Find X9 Pro's crown jewel is certainly its pro camera bundle that reflects the idea of Xiaomi 15 Ultra 's configuration but incorporates OPPO's hallmark ingenuity. As per an official publication by OPPO's Weibo account, the camera bundle will be a Pro model exclusive and driven by Hasselblad, upholding the brand's robust collaboration in photography mastery. While OnePlus just ditched the Hasselblad branding after half a decade, OPPO is doubling down on this partnership and it's clear that the brand wants to make the Find X9 Pro a photographer's phone. Also Read: Vivo X300 Series to Debut Sony’s LYT-828 Camera Sensor and MediaTek Dimensity 9500 Chipset What’s Inside the OPPO Find X9 Pro Camera Kit? OPPO is going all out with its professional camera kit, which includes five premium accessories designed to turn the Find X9 Pro into a complete imaging powerhouse. Here’s what the kit includes: Hasselblad Professional Teleconverter New Magnetic Grip Ultra-High-Quality Magnetic Protective Case Professional Phone Strap OPPO Hasselblad Professional Magnetic Flash Ring Light Each of these accessories is crafted to improve the overall camera experience not just aesthetically, but functionally. Hasselblad Professional Teleconverter One of the most thrilling accessories in the catalog is the Hasselblad Professional Teleconverter, a rear camera-mounted extender that's meant to double the effective focal length of the rear camera setup. It's meant to provide an ability to shoot distant images without having to compromise on quality. In accordance with OPPO, this teleconverter increases zoom power by 3.28x, which turns the 70mm telephoto lens of the phone into a powerhouse 230mm focal length. This is perfect for wildlife photographers, travelers, and content creators who require the best possible zoom capability from a smartphone camera. Also Read: OnePlus 15 Redefines Flagship Design with Nano-Ceramic Frame and DetailMax Engine Magnetic Grip, Protective Case, and Strap OPPO has also added a magnetic grip, providing a secure and comfortable grip while taking photos making the phone even more like a professional DSLR camera. This is accompanied by a quality magnetic protective case and a professional phone strap, both style and protection. They all give the user an ergonomic and protective experience for long photography processes or vlogging. Magnetic Flash Ring Light One of the more fascinating additions is the OPPO Hasselblad Professional Magnetic Flash Ring Light. It magnetic-mounts onto the rear of the phone and gives even lighting for portraits, videos, and nighttime photography. For vloggers and content creators, this accessory will be a game-changer, providing soft and balanced illumination without the requisite external bulk. Hasselblad-tuned harmonization blended with OPPO's camera AI guarantees natural skin tones and life-like illumination in each frame. Also Read: JioBharat Phone Launches in India at ₹799 Offering Smart Safety Features for Kids and Elders Aesthetic Meets Functionality Based on the official teasers released by OPPO, the camera system of the Find X9 Pro appears sleek and professional. With the full camera suite, it appears more like a miniature professional camera than a smartphone. The combination of Hasselblad lenses, magnetic attachments, and high-end build quality shows the level of commitment of OPPO to revolutionizing smartphone imaging. Camera Specifications The OPPO Find X9 Pro isn’t just about accessories its hardware is equally impressive. The device is confirmed to feature a 200MP periscope camera, alongside a 50MP Sony LYT-828 main sensor, ensuring flagship-grade photography performance. In addition, the camera will support: 4K live photos 8K photo capture 4K 120fps Dolby Vision video recording This triple-camera setup builds on the foundation of the Find X8 Pro, which was widely praised for its warm tones, balanced contrast, and strong dynamic range. With upgraded sensors and Hasselblad color calibration, the Find X9 Pro aims to deliver even more realistic and cinematic visuals. OPPO Find X8 Pro Camera Prowess The Find X8 Pro left users amazed with its realistic color tone, high-quality textures, and sharp portrait images. Its AI capabilities enabled photographers to adjust tones to their liking and attain pro-level photos without much effort. Even at 10x zoom, image quality was remarkable, giving it a spot among the top camera phones of 2024. Expanding on that achievement, the Find X9 Pro should take boundaries even further in both hardware and software optimizations. Also Read: Red Magic 11 Pro Set to Launch in China with Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 and Next-Gen Cooling System OPPO's Imaging Ambition With the Find X9 Pro, OPPO is sharply positioning itself as a strong player in mobile photography, pitting itself against industry giants such as Xiaomi, Vivo, and Samsung. Continued collaboration with Hasselblad gives it professional gravitas, and the added touch of a full camera kit might win over creators and professionals. If OPPO is able to release this camera kit in India and other parts of the world, it can recast how photographers and photography enthusiasts view flagship smartphones not only as communication devices, but as genuine creative partners. The OPPO Find X9 Pro is turning out to be one of the most ambitious smartphone releases of 2025. With its 200MP periscope lens and collaboration with Hasselblad, and even a dedicated professional camera kit, OPPO is combining design, innovation, and professional-level imaging in a way never seen before. If these accessories deliver as good as they appear, OPPO might establish a new standard for smartphone photography and maybe spur a new generation of "camera-first" phones industry-wide.

Wait is almost over OnePlus 15 is set to go global in the coming days, with leaks hinting at a November 15th release. The company's new flagship is set to be one of the biggest overhauls in years, with an entirely new design, improved materials, and an in-house camera engine that ditches the longstanding Hasselblad collaboration. With so much change condensed into a single device, the OnePlus 15 may be a turning point for OnePlus as it redefines its flagship brand. A Bold New Design Language Inspired by “Dune Aesthetics” When OnePlus announced the official design of the OnePlus 15 last month, it made headlines in the entire smartphone world. For a change, the company hasn't followed the iterative design updates of previous models. Instead, the company has totally redesigned the rear camera module with a new angular design. Taking inspiration from "dune aesthetics", the OnePlus 15 will be available in Sand Dune and Original Dune colours, both of which are in perfect harmony with the theme. Bye-bye to that signature round camera module that characterized OnePlus flagships for a few generations. In its place, the OnePlus 15 brings a rectangular-shaped camera island that's similar to the smaller OnePlus 13s with a simple and minimalist configuration. This left-aligned arrangement also subtly echoes Apple's iPhone Pro series prior to the iPhone 17 lineup, giving the new design a sense of familiarity and futurism. Apart from looks, this design alteration also provides functional benefits. The revised layout allows for improved use of interior space and enhanced heat dissipation, keeping the device at top performance levels during games or long camera sessions. It's a considered redesign that improves usability without sacrificing aesthetic harmony. Enter DetailMax Engine One of the largest changes in OnePlus' playbook is the discontinuation of its five-year partnership with Hasselblad. The partnership had assisted in taking OnePlus' photography to a new level, offering improved colour science and an artistic vision to photos. The OnePlus 15, however, sees the company move boldly towards autonomy with the rollout of its own in-house DetailMax Engine. This in-house imaging solution is designed entirely by OnePlus to provide unprecedented clarity, dynamic range, and detail. The change enables OnePlus to maintain total hardware and software control, a step similar to how Apple and Google have optimized their camera systems internally. Absent Hasselblad branding and design constraints, OnePlus has rebooted its camera interface from scratch tighter, cleaner, and more functional. The company's sample camera shots appear rich, vibrant, and natural, hinting at an unbranded photographic experience that isn't dependent on outside branding. Whether DetailMax delivers on its name will be known once the phone is officially launched, but the trajectory is positive. Aerospace-Grade Nano-Ceramic Frame OnePlus is breaking away from conventional aluminum and is elevating its build quality to the next level. The OnePlus 15 boasts an upgraded aerospace-grade "nano-ceramic metal" frame, a material that is said to be 26% lighter than titanium with 134% improved wear resistance. This material not only enhances durability and heat control but also improves in-hand feel. The new "Quenching Texture" finish offers a striking visual and tactile pleasing surface, while the "Ice Skin" coating keeps the phone cool and comfortable to hold even for extended sessions. Coupled with military-grade micro-arc oxidation, the frame becomes more durable than titanium and steel, making sure that the OnePlus 15 remains corrosion-proof and retains its high-end appearance in the long term. Ultra-Narrow Bezels and a Flat Display for a Modern Look On the front, the OnePlus 15 maintains its contemporary design style. The phone has ultra-thin bezels of just 1.15mm on all four sides, complemented by a flat screen for an immersive viewing experience. This design not only makes the most of screen space but also presents the phone with a stylized, symmetrical look that is more elegant than curved screens. The larger battery and enhanced cooling system make it ideal for power users and content creators. Whether you’re gaming, editing photos, or shooting 4K videos, the OnePlus 15 aims to deliver smooth, reliable performance without overheating. OnePlus’ Confident Rebirth as a Flagship Brand The OnePlus 15 is a daring reinterpretation of what its flagship should be autonomous, powerful, and sleek. With the departure of Hasselblad and the arrival of the DetailMax Engine, OnePlus is taking a direction toward full creative and technical independence. Physically, the more angular edges, high-quality materials, and symmetrical camera configuration give the phone a futuristic feel that's still reassuringly familiar. If you liked the minimalist design of the OnePlus 13s, chances are you'll like the refinement of the OnePlus 15. Alternatively, people who long for the round camera configuration may find this refreshment disconcerting but even they can't help but be impressed by how put-together and mature the new design is. Launch Schedule and Major Expectations As per recent rumors, OnePlus 15 would initially be launched in China on October 27th, with a global release slated for November 15th. The phone is likely to be powered by Android 16-based OxygenOS 16, which will introduce new features, improved animations, and extended customization. Under the hood, it will be driven by the new Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor that promises a huge leap in AI performance, graphics, and efficiency. Paired with the new cooling system and battery optimizations, this might make the OnePlus 15 one of the best-balanced flagships of the year. The OnePlus 15 is like the culmination of a decade of evolution of OnePlus a phone that marries precision engineering, design expertise, and software mastery. Powered by its nano-ceramic frame, DetailMax camera system, and OxygenOS built on Android 16, it is evident that OnePlus is entering a new frontier of flagship superiority. If the leaks and teasers are anything to go by, then the OnePlus 15 may not be yet another annual upgrade it may well revolutionize what a OnePlus flagship is all about.

Samsung has formally introduced the Galaxy M17 5G in India, broadening its well-known M-series family with a feature-laden mid-range smartphone. The new handset couples Samsung's stable performance, long software support, and colorful display technology, making it an attractive choice for consumers seeking a value-conscious 5G smartphone in 2025. Brilliant Display with Gorilla Glass Victus Protection The Galaxy M17 5G features a 6.7-inch FHD+ Infinity-U Super AMOLED display with a refresh rate of 90Hz for a seamless and immersive viewing experience. With its peak brightness of up to 1100 nits (HBM), consumers can experience great visibility even in direct sunlight. The company has also provided Corning Gorilla Glass Victus protection, allowing for even better durability against scratches and small drops. Powerful Exynos 1330 Processor and Expandable Storage Beneath the hood, the smartphone uses the Exynos 1330 processor, which provides solid 5G performance and seamless multitasking. It has 4GB, 6GB, and 8GB RAM models, each accompanied by 128GB of internal memory. The phone is also expandable up to 2TB through a microSD card using its Hybrid Dual SIM slot, providing users with flexibility for applications, media, and documents. Android 15 and One UI 7.0 with Updates for 6 Years Another major highlight of the Galaxy M17 5G is its One UI 7.0 operating system based on Android 15. Samsung has promised 6 years of Android OS updates and 6 years of security patches, making the M17 one of the longest-supported smartphones in its category. The phone also comes with Gemini Live features, which improve AI-driven personalization, multitasking, and smart suggestions. Triple Camera System with OIS In the photography department, the Galaxy M17 5G comes with a triple rear camera module that has a 50MP primary sensor (F1.8) with OIS (Optical Image Stabilization), providing sharp and stable shots. It comes along with a 5MP ultra-wide lens as well as a 2MP macro camera, making it handy for various shooting styles. For selfies as well as video calls, users are provided with a 13MP front camera (F2.0) that captures natural skin tones along with decent detail in ample lighting conditions. Sleek Design and Robust Construction Samsung Galaxy M17 5G boasts a sleek and compact design, being 164.4 x 77.9 x 7.5mm in dimensions and weighing 192 grams. It is available in two sophisticated colours: Moonlight Silver and Sapphire Black. It further features IP54 dust and water resistance, giving extra protection for everyday use. Connectivity and Audio Features In terms of connectivity, Galaxy M17 5G comes with extensive coverage of 5G SA/NSA bands (such as N1, N3, N5, N7, N8, N40, N41, N77, and N78), providing robust network coverage in India. It comes with Dual 4G VoLTE, Wi-Fi 802.11ac (2.4GHz + 5GHz), Bluetooth 5.3, GPS + GLONASS, NFC, and USB Type-C support. The device also has bottom-ported speakers and USB Type-C audio to improve multimedia experiences. Long-Term Battery with 25W Fast Charging Galaxy M17 5G carries a 5000mAh battery, which comfortably lasts one whole day of moderate to intense usage. The phone has 25W fast charging support, enabling users to charge quickly and return to their activities. Samsung's optimization with One UI 7.0 further optimizes battery life and heat efficiency. Samsung Galaxy M17 5G Price in India The Samsung Galaxy M17 5G is offered in three models: 4GB + 128GB – ₹12,499 6GB + 128GB – ₹13,999 8GB + 128GB – ₹15,499 Its balance of performance, display quality, and long-term software support makes the Galaxy M17 5G one of the best well-rounded 5G smartphones available for less than ₹16,000 in India. Samsung continues to fortify its mid-range portfolio with the introduction of the Galaxy M17 5G, which brings great specs, refined design, and great software longevity. For consumers who value a vibrant AMOLED screen, consistent performance, and assured updates, the Galaxy M17 5G is a great choice in India's competitively-priced 5G smartphone segment.

PhonePe, India's top digital payments platform, launched its next-generation SmartSpeaker with onboarded card payment capability, a new milestone in the fintech industry. This Made-in-India product is India's first device to incorporate "tap-to-pay" card capability directly into a SmartSpeaker, providing merchants and consumers an effortless and futuristic experience of payments. The newly launched PhonePe SmartSpeaker combines the strength of a POS terminal and QR code payments in one small device. Merchants can now accept all major credit and debit cards, as well as UPI and QR payments, making it an all-in-one solution for digital retail and small businesses. One of its best points is the dual-screen design, which improves transparency and instills customer confidence by displaying real-time transaction data to merchants and payers alike. The SmartSpeaker is also designed for reliability and ease of use, featuring 4G connectivity for seamless transactions and long battery life for a full day's use without excessive recharging. By uniting innovation, reliability, and ease of use, PhonePe's new SmartSpeaker is ready to change in-store digital payments in India. It exemplifies the company's consistent focus on empowering small businesses with the latest tools, all while championing the government's vision for a cashless and digital-first economy.

In a historic development in digital payments, PayPal has formally joined hands with NPCI International to launch UPI support on its new cross-border platform, PayPal World. The news was announced at the Global Fintech Fest 2025 in Mumbai, heralding a new era in India's digital payments revolution. With this tie-up, PayPal is the first global payment behemoth to seamlessly integrate India's favorite payment system, Unified Payments Interface (UPI), both for domestic and global transactions. Indian Users Now Able to Pay Across the World with UPI For Indian users numbering millions, this integration means a whole new level of convenience. PayPal now supports direct payments using UPI for local and international purchases alike, doing away with the use of credit or debit cards. Users can just enter their UPI ID at the time of checkout and confirm the payment using their choice of UPI app Paytm, Google Pay, PhonePe, or BHIM. This step perfectly resonates with India's UPI-first digital economy, allowing users to shop or subscribe anywhere in the world and pay safely in Indian Rupees (INR). PayPal takes care of all the currency conversion behind the scenes, providing a seamless, transparent experience for consumers. Empowering International Travelers and Merchants PayPal World is not merely convenient for Indian customers it's a huge advantage for international travelers and businesses as well. Travelers all over the world can now settle payments with Indian merchants directly through UPI using their PayPal accounts, bridging India's digital ecosystem and the world at large. For companies, the advantage is even larger. Businesses everywhere that accept PayPal will automatically be able to accept UPI payments, opening them up to more than 500 million active UPI users in India. That translates into reduced transaction costs, quicker settlements, and a simpler way to reach India's fast-expanding digital economy. The integration leverages secure APIs and cloud-native technologies, ensuring both speed and compliance with global fintech standards. Whether paying for a local subscription or an international product, users can expect instant, low-friction payments powered by UPI’s infrastructure and PayPal’s trusted ecosystem. UPI Goes Global This partnership may reimagine the future of cross-border digital payments. UPI, now fueling more than 85% of India's retail digital transactions, now makes its entry onto the international fintech space with PayPal's presence. It's a giant leap in taking India's payments technology global, making UPI a global benchmark for low-cost, real-time digital payments. For PayPal, the move reinstates it to the forefront in India's rapidly changing UPI-led market, following decades of relegation to the back burner by indigenous payments systems. The merging together of PayPal's global reputation with India's fintech capabilities brings about a robustly inclusive payment ecosystem. What It Means for the Future of Payments The PayPal-UPI alliance marks a new age of digital commerce one in which borders and currencies no longer define access to money. It reinforces India's position as a fintech power player globally, and empowers consumers and merchants with the means to pay securely, efficiently, and affordably anywhere on the planet. At its core, PayPal + UPI = India's digital payments on the global stage.

Greater Control for Users Meta has launched an ad-free subscription service for users of Facebook and Instagram in the United Kingdom. This new service gives individuals greater control over their online experience. The rollout follows recommendations from the U.K. Information Commissioner's Office (ICO). These recommendations highlighted the need for users to have choices regarding how their personal data is used for targeted advertising. Now, users can choose between sticking with the ad-supported, free access or paying for an ad-free version. The subscription costs are straightforward but differ by platform. On the web, the ad-free subscription costs £2.99 a month. On iOS and Android devices, it is £3.99 a month. This price difference mirrors the charges from Apple and Google’s app stores. If users want to connect additional accounts via the Meta Accounts Center, each extra account will cost an additional £2 on the web or £3 on mobile devices. Importantly, one subscription covers both Facebook and Instagram, making it easier to manage through a single account. Options for Non-Subscribers For those who don't want to pay, Facebook and Instagram will continue to operate under their ad model. Users can still access these platforms for free. Meta has also made adjustments to enhance user control and transparency around ads. Non-subscribers will have ad preference controls. They can use these controls to manage the types of ads they see and understand why specific ads are displayed. This balance allows users to choose between an ad-free experience or staying on the free model with improved tools for managing ad personalization. Regulatory Pressure and User Preferences Meta's move comes amid increasing regulatory pressure on European tech giants. There is a growing demand for more transparent and fair options regarding data use. By providing an ad-free and low-cost subscription option, Meta not only complies with these regulations but also empowers consumers. They can have greater control over their experience on the platform. Some users may view the subscription as a way to maintain privacy and enjoy a distraction-free experience. Others may prefer to stick with the free account but benefit from enhanced control over targeted advertising. The Future of Social Media Platforms This initiative represents a fundamental shift in how social media platforms could operate in the future. There is a greater emphasis on user preference, openness, and adherence to privacy laws. As competition in the social media market intensifies, this action may set a new standard for how platforms manage ads and subscriptions worldwide. Conclusion In conclusion, Meta's ad-free subscription service offers a new way for users to engage with Facebook and Instagram. It provides options that cater to different preferences, whether users want to pay for an ad-free experience or continue using the platforms for free with enhanced controls. This move not only aligns with regulatory demands but also signifies a shift towards prioritizing user choice and transparency in the digital landscape. Also Read: YouTube Unveils Powerful AI Tools and Monetization Features at Made on YouTube 2025 Event

The anticipation for Red Magic's next behemoth gaming phone is almost here. The Red Magic 11 Pro is ready to officially launch in China soon, heralding a tide of performance and design upgrades for avid gamers. Nubia, the company behind Red Magic, has started hyping the phone's design, color choices, and next-generation cooling system all hinting at a huge upgrade from last year's Red Magic 10 Pro series. Red Magic 11 Pro Release Date and Availability As per an official Weibo post, the Red Magic 11 Pro series will go on sale in China on October 17 at 2:30 PM local time (12 PM IST). The new lineup is likely to feature two models the Red Magic 11 Pro and the Red Magic 11 Pro+. Promo teasers have already established that the phone will come in two sophisticated colour options black and white, retaining the signature aggressive and angular design language for which Red Magic phones are famous. The camera module design also appears to take heavy cues from its precursor, the Red Magic 10 Pro, with a symmetrical and bold configuration. Pre-orders for the Red Magic 11 Pro have already commenced in China via JD.com and the Red Magic website, indicating strong expectation from the fan base. Design and Build Remaining faithful to its gaming-oriented nature, the Red Magic 11 Pro mixes cutting-edge design with a performance-oriented construction. The back and frame design focus on durability as well as maximizing airflow, ensuring an optimal balance of form and function. The black and white color options available showcase Nubia's ongoing commitment to providing premium design choices to accompany the device's high-end internals. Yufeng 4.0 Active Cooling Fan One of the biggest surprises regarding the Red Magic 11 Pro is its Yufeng 4.0 active cooling system, which is the culmination of seven years of relentless R&D from Red Magic. The system features a waterfall design air duct and IPX8-grade waterproofing, one of the most sophisticated cooling configurations ever utilized on a smartphone. It's designed specifically to provide sustained peak performance throughout long periods of gaming, keeping optimal temperatures even under stressful conditions. The Red Magic 11 Pro cooling technology is said to provide generation-best thermal efficiency, providing gamers with a perceptible advantage in consistency of performance and comfort during marathon plays. Dense Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 Chipset The Red Magic 11 Pro has at its core the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 SoC, Qualcomm's new and most advanced chipset, developed for top-tier gaming and multitasking. The processor is bound to deliver sensational boosts in CPU and GPU performance, AI power, and efficiency, making it perfect for demanding games and stressful workloads. If we take the brand's history into account, Red Magic 11 Pro will reportedly come with configurations of up to 24GB LPDDR5X RAM and up to 1TB UFS 4.0 storage, allowing for smooth app switching, quicker data access, and industry-leading performance levels. Display While formal display specs have yet to be announced, hopes are high that the Red Magic 11 Pro will boast a 6.8-inch BOE Q9+ AMOLED screen like its predecessor, with a 1.5K resolution and 144Hz refresh rate. The extremely smooth and high-refresh screen will provide an exceptionally responsive gaming experience with rich colours and sharp details an ideal choice for competitive players and multimedia consumers alike. Camera Configuration The camera configuration of the Red Magic 11 Pro should also undergo some enhancements. In line with the configuration of the Red Magic 10 Pro, camera users can look forward to a 50MP OmniVision OV50E40 main sensor, complemented with a 50MP ultra-wide lens and a 2MP macro camera for macro photography. On the front, the phone may have a 16MP under-display front camera, providing a notch-less, clean viewing experience with good imaging capabilities for selfies and video calls. Battery and Fast Charging To drive its high-performance insides, the Red Magic 11 Pro will be rumored to carry a humongous 6,500mAh battery, delivering power all day long for gaming, streaming, and productivity. The phone is also rumored to have 120W ultra-fast charging, so users can refuel in minutes and dive back into the game without waiting. Anticipated Red Magic 11 Pro+ Variant In addition to the regular model, the Red Magic 11 Pro+ version is also rumored to appear at the same conference. This model may provide even more memory options, enhanced cooling design, and perhaps improved charging speed aimed at serious gamers who will accept nothing but the best. The future Red Magic 11 Pro will revolutionize phone gaming yet again with its Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor, latest Yufeng 4.0 cooling technology, and high-end design. Nubia's unwavering commitment to merging state-of-the-art performance with game-optimized innovation places this release among the most eagerly awaited of 2025. With its release date scheduled for October 17, the Red Magic 11 Pro is looking to become a flagship that will not only set new standards for gaming smartphones but also for general flagship Android smartphones.

OpenAI is said to be in the process of onboarding Unified Payments Interface (UPI) payments natively on ChatGPT so that Indian users can conduct smooth transactions without ever leaving the app. This significant fintech tie-up includes India's payment regulator the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) and fintech giant Razorpay, marking the dawn of AI-powered payments on India's rapidly expanding digital economy. AI-Powered Payments Arrive on ChatGPT According to a report by Reuters, OpenAI is working closely with NPCI and Razorpay to bring AI-integrated UPI payments to ChatGPT. The feature will leverage UPI’s newly introduced “Reserve Pay” system, which allows users to reserve funds for specific merchants. This integration marks the first time artificial intelligence and India’s most popular digital payment system are coming together to enable intelligent, secure, and conversational transactions. During the pilot stage, Airtel Payments Bank and Axis Bank will be the official banking partners. In the meantime, BigBasket will be one of the first e-commerce websites to enable AI shopping via ChatGPT. Customers can simply converse with the AI, tell it what they need to buy, and finalize their purchase without having to change apps or type out payment information. How UPI Payments Work on ChatGPT On a demo posted on X (formerly Twitter) by Razorpay's Co-founder and CEO Harshil Mathur, the new functionality was seen in action. During the demo, a user uploads a screenshot of grocery products that the user wants to order. ChatGPT then reads the image, recognizes the products, and searches them on BigBasket. If a particular item is out of stock, ChatGPT recommends substitutes with ease, inquiring if the customer wants "best value brands" or organic and premium alternatives. Once the item is chosen, ChatGPT showcases an itemized invoice with the amount and shipping information. On acceptance by the customer, the payment is made securely using the UPI Reserve Pay token within the chat itself. A message of confirmation then appears in the chat, confirming that the purchase has been made successfully. This process demonstrates the capability of AI as a personal shopper, not only able to browse or compare products, but also make secure payments in an instant. The Future of AI-Driven Transactions As per The Mint, the partnership among Razorpay, NPCI, and OpenAI will seek to understand how AI can shape the payment system by making it efficient, personalized, and secure. The collaborators hope to facilitate AI agents that are capable of conducting transactions on their own but safely by keeping payment credentials under the firm control and check of the user. Such a system would be a quantum leap in the adoption of AI by India, fusing conversational capability with financial stability. It may turn ChatGPT into not only a productivity engine but also an intelligent commerce platform, making shopping, payment, and services easy for countless users. When Will It Roll Out? Until this time, OpenAI has not announced an official release date for UPI payments on ChatGPT. It also remains unclear if the feature will be available to all users or first to ChatGPT Plus subscribers with access to the company's AI Agent system. Still, this future integration promises to reconfigure how Indians engage with both AI and digital payments, combining ease with innovation. Upon launch, it may be among the most innovative fintech features of the decade — putting India at the forefront of AI-powered financial technology.

Paytm, the homegrown fintech leader of India, has formally launched the Paytm AI Soundbox, a significant step in how small and medium enterprises (SMBs) can implement artificial intelligence in their day-to-day activities. The announcement was made during the Global Fintech Festival (GFF), where Paytm showcased how AI can ease business management and introduce intelligence to daily merchant experiences. The Paytm AI Soundbox isn't only a payment notification device—it's an AI business assistant meant to empower India's merchant community. It comes with a sophisticated AI assistant that speaks in 11 Indian languages and assists merchants in receiving real-time insights and answers from their payment history and business performance. By merely conversing with the Soundbox, traders are able to tap into useful intelligence, enabling them to make more informed business decisions without the use of intricate systems or tools. The new-generation Soundbox is based on an Android platform, fusing robust software with intelligent design to enable future-proof scalability and upgrades. The device comes equipped with dual screens a front touchscreen for simple interaction and a top screen for immediate updates providing users with a seamless, intuitive experience. The Paytm Button feature offers merchants quick and easy access to key payment notifications and customer support, facilitating merchants to keep track of collections, transactions, and other business statistics easily through both visual and voice interfaces. Designed for live business conditions, Paytm AI Soundbox accommodates dynamic QR payments, tap-to-pay, and card insertion transactions. Whether at the bustling café, neighborhood store, or supermarket, merchants can accept payments at a safe, rapid pace. Its WiFi and 4G ensure seamless functionality in indoor as well as outdoor configurations, removing connectivity issues that plague small business operations. Vijay Shekhar Sharma, Paytm's CEO and founder, emphasized the importance of this innovation by saying, “From bringing QR code-based mobile payments to innovating the mass-scale trust device, Soundbox, we are now entering the intelligence age with multiple AI-first products. With Paytm AI Soundbox, we are making the power of AI accessible to small and micro businesses across the country.” He also underscored Paytm's effort to make AI inclusive, trustworthy, and secure, while fueling efficiency and expansion for millions of merchants. The launch marks the beginning of a new age India's intelligence revolution, in which AI-powered tools will enable small and medium-sized businesses to grow faster, think smarter, and be more trusted by customers. Paytm's AI-first strategy continues to reinforce its leadership in fintech innovation, as technology not only drives payments but also empowers the individuals behind them. With the Paytm AI Soundbox, India's traders now have at their disposal a smart, interactive, and intelligent assistant that combines payment capabilities with business intelligence enabling the next generation of growth in the country's digital economy.