Apple has initiated beta testing for its upcoming iOS 17.4 update, which includes macOS 14.4 beta 2, watchOS 10.4 beta 2, and tvOS 17.4 beta 2 updates. Currently accessible to iOS users participating in public beta testing and developers, the new beta OS version brings remarkable enhancements. Apple has introduced significant updates to the App Store and iPhone, aligning with the Digital Markets Act across 27 European Union countries.

1. When is iOS 17.4 releasing?

According to reports, Apple is set to launch the official version of iOS 17.4 in the initial week of March 2024. The final release timing is also expected to align with the legal obligations that Apple must adhere to in the European region.

As per the Digital Markets Act, Apple has been instructed to implement certain modifications to the iPhone and the App Store, with a deadline set for March 6. Consequently, it is expected that Apple will release iOS 17.4 either before or on March 6 to comply with these requirements.

2. Upcoming new features of iOS 17.4

As mentioned earlier, the latest iOS 17.4 update introduces substantial changes to both the App Store and iPhone. These modifications include the inclusion of support for additional web browsers, the provision of assistance for alternative app marketplaces, and much more.

Here are the details of the new iOS update -

1. Alternative app marketplaces

For the first time, iPhone users have the option to get applications from sources other than the App Store, such as the Epic Games Store. This development resulted from the EU's antitrust ruling against Apple.

2. Browser Option

iPhone users now have the ability to decide their default browser through a pop-up notification in Safari. Also, users are now able to utilize browsers operating on engines distinct from WebKit, such as Firefox or Chrome.

3. Payment flexibility

In the latest iOS 17.4 beta, iPhone users have the capability to make in-app purchases utilizing payment methods beyond Apple Pay, including options like PayPal or Venmo. Also, they have the freedom to establish their default NFC and wallet applications for Apple Pay.

4. Stolen Device Protection

In the latest update, iPhone users can also choose to always enforce a security delay when modifying security settings, even in familiar locations. This enhancement will present a challenge for thieves attempting to deactivate Find My iPhone or wipe the device.

5. Podcast Transcripts

This fresh addition enables iPhone users to explore transcripts of podcast episodes within the Apple Podcasts app. These transcripts, crafted by Apple, resemble the real-time lyrics feature found in Apple Music.

6. Siri Enhancement

With the iOS 17.4 beta update, iPhone users now have the ability to instruct Siri to read messages in languages different from the ones they use for other Siri tasks. Users can include languages via the Settings app under Siri & Search > Messaging with Siri.

7. New Emoji

iPhone users now have access to seven additional emoji options, including a heart with a bandage, a face exhaling, and a face in the clouds. Additionally, there are new variations of family emoji featuring different genders and skin tones.

8. Vision Pro Compatibility

For users of Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2, it's now possible to disable Double Tap while wearing Vision Pro. This helps prevent conflicts between Apple Watch gestures and those of Vision Pro.

Furthermore, iOS 17.4 introduces several minor adjustments. These include the renaming of the Listen Now tabs to Home tabs in the Podcasts and Music apps, the addition of the address bar in Safari, the inclusion of the Identifiable Region label in the Settings app, and the extension of the Siri shortcut to Germany.

What Lies Ahead? It's worth noting that iOS 17.4 remains in its beta testing phase, and Apple might unveil additional updates before the official launch in March. For beta testers, it's important to recognize that this version may contain potential bugs and glitches that could impact iPhone performance and battery life.

The launch of the OnePlus Pad Pro is on the way, with the company teasing its upcoming release alongside the OnePlus Ace 3 Pro smartphone. This device is expected to succeed the well-received first-generation OnePlus Pad, known for its excellent price-to-performance ratio. Given the addition of 'Pro' to its name, the new tablet is expected to offer advanced features and likely come at a higher price compared to its predecessor.

Here is everything you need to know about -

The OnePlus Pad Pro is set to launch in China on June 27. While there's no information on its India release yet, it's likely to arrive in the country, given India's significance as a key market for the brand. The OnePlus Pad was priced at Rs 37,999, and the Pro version is expected to be slightly more expensive.

OnePlus Pad Pro Teaser Shows Sleek Design, New Grey Variant, and Stylus Support

The teaser image released by the company indicates that the OnePlus Pad Pro will maintain the design of its original version. The device will continue to feature a slim and sleek design in green, with a new grey variant also available. It will support a stylus and keyboard, and the screen appears to have minimal bezels. OnePlus likely refined the design and made minor enhancements to improve its appearance, details of which will become clearer upon its launch in India.

The primary upgrade is expected in the hardware, as the design remains largely unchanged. Since the specifications for the new version have not been disclosed, it's challenging to comment on its performance at this time.

OnePlus Pad: High-Performance Specs and Sleek Design

To summarize, the OnePlus Pad features an 11.6-inch LCD with a 144Hz refresh rate, Full-HD+ resolution, and 500 nits of typical brightness. It is powered by MediaTek's flagship Dimensity 9000 SoC and a 9510mAh battery, which supports 65W SuperVOOC charging. The SoC is paired with LPDDR5 RAM and UFS 3.1 storage, enabling fast app loading and seamless multitasking. The OnePlus Pad is lightweight, weighing just 552 grams, and is only 6.5mm thick.

The rear panel features a 13-megapixel camera with EIS support, capable of recording 4K videos at 30fps. The front camera is an 8-megapixel unit that supports full-HD recording at 30fps. Currently, the OnePlus Pad is available only in a Wi-Fi variant, with a potential LTE variant possibly being introduced in future generations. As of now, you cannot use a SIM card to access the internet on the go.

Xiaomi marks a decade in the Indian market with the exciting launch of 5 new products. Celebrating its milestone, the brand introduces a new budget smartphone, wireless earphones, an upgraded robot vacuum cleaner, and two power banks.

Here is everything you need to know about these Xiaomi offerings, including features and prices in India.

Redmi 13 5G unveiled for the Indian market

The Redmi 13 5G has been unveiled in India at a starting price of Rs 12,999, inclusive of bank offers. This budget-friendly device features a 6.79-inch FHD+ display, a Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 AE processor chip, a 5,030 mAh battery with 33W fast charging, and other impressive specifications. The display is also protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 3.

Redmi Buds 5C introduced

The new Redmi wireless earbuds provide 40dB of Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), designed to effectively block ambient noise for an enhanced listening experience. They have 12.4mm Dynamic Titanium Drivers and a quad-mic setup with AI ENC, aimed to reducing background noise during calls. Xiaomi promises up to 36 hours of total playtime with the charging case, and up to 7 hours of playtime with just the earbuds. These earbuds support Bluetooth 5.3 for stable connectivity and low latency.

Xiaomi introduces new power banks

Xiaomi has expanded its range with new power banks, including the Xiaomi Pocket Power Bank, having a 10,000 mAh capacity. This model has a built-in Type-C cable, supports multi-port access, and offers two-way fast charging capabilities. 

The another addition is the Xiaomi Power Bank 4i, capable of charging three devices simultaneously with its 10,000 mAh lithium-ion battery. Both models comes with a 12-layer protection system and support 22.5W fast charging, Power Delivery, and Quick Charge 3.0 technologies, as per Xiaomi’s specifications.

The Xiaomi Pocket Power Bank, featuring a 10,000 mAh capacity and a built-in cable, is priced at Rs 1,699. Meanwhile, the Xiaomi Power Bank 4i, offering 10,000 mAh capacity and 22.5W fast charging, will be available for Rs 1,299.

Xiaomi introduces the Robot Vacuum Cleaner X10

The company also unveiled its latest model, the Xiaomi Robot Vaccum Cleaner X10. this advanced vacuum cleaner is designed for quick dust collection with dual auto-emptying vents and a high-capacity 2.5L disposable bag, capable of storing up to 60 full cleans. Provided with LDS Laser Navigation, the RVC X 10 provides accurate mappring to ensure thorough cleaning coverage, as per Xiaomi.

It comes with a suction power of 4000Pa, Xiaomi claims the vacuum effectively eliminates dirt and debris from diverse surfaces. It includes an automated cleaning station with 17000Pa suction power. Powered by 5200mAh battery, it provides up to 240 minutes of cleaning time per charge. The vacuum cleaner can be controlled through the Xiaomi Home App.  this device comes at a price range of Rs 29,999.

Following the launch of the Google Pixel 9 series in India in August, the Pixel 9 Pro is now available for pre-order on Flipkart. While the Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro XL were available immediately after the launch, the Pixel 9 Pro is now going on sale two months later. In India, the smartphone is offered in a single configuration of 16GB RAM and 256GB storage, priced at Rs 1,09,999. However, various deals on the e-commerce site reduce the price to as low as Rs 99,999. The Pixel 9 Pro comes in four color options, including, Hazel, Obsidian, Porcelain, and Rose Quartz. 

Check out these deals and the specifications of the phone in detail - 

Google Pixel 9 Pro Pre-Order Sale 

The Google Pixel 9 Pro is now open for pre-orders, with delivery expected by October 25 in Delhi. This delivery date suggests that the official availability sale will commence on or after October 25. The Pixel 9 Pro is priced at Rs 1,09,999 for the 16GB and 256GB storage variants. Interested buyers can pre-book the device on Flipkart, where several enticing deals are available. 

If you’re using an ICICI Credit Card, you can enjoy a flat discount of Rs 10,000 while Flipkart Axis Credit Card users can save Rs 5,500. Also, if you’re looking to exchange your old device, the price can drop even further. For example, trading in an iPhone 13 for the Pixel 9 Pro can provide a discount of Rs 27,100, bringing the price down to Rs 72,899.

Google Pixel 9: Key Specifications

The Pixel 9 Pro is a more advanced model compared to the Pixel 9, featuring a 6.3-inch LTPO OLED display protected by Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2. It has a higher resolution of 1280 X 2856 pixels and an adaptive refresh rate that ranges from 1 Hz to 120 Hz. The camera system on the Pixel 9 Pro has been enhanced with a triple rear setup, which includes a 48-megapixel telephoto lens. Additionally, the primary camera configuration consists of a 50-megapixel Octa PD wide camera and a 48-megapixel Quad PD ultrawide camera. 

There are no changes in the battery specifications. The Pixel 9 Pro is equipped with a 4700mAh battery and supports 45W wired charging, just like the Pixel 9. It also offers wireless charging capabilities. The device comes with 16GB of RAM and storage options ranging from 256GB to 1TB.

Google Pixel 9 Series: Gemini Features

The Made by Google event began with an overview of its AI, Gemini. This AI is also featured in several other flagship and budget devices. Google also unveiled a range of new AI features exclusive to the Google Pixel 9 series, stating that this recently launched series is designed for the Gemini era. 

Here is a list of the widely discussed Gemini features - 

• Gemini Live - This feature aims to transform how Google Assistant functions. Similar to OpenAI's ChatGPT voice mode, Gemini offers a variety of voice assistants to choose from, allowing you to either search the internet or engage in a conversation.

• Pixel Screenshot - Google introduces an AI-powered application that helps you search through your screenshots. This feature operates similarly to Microsoft's Recall function, but Google has ensured it avoids controversy by limiting its functionality to screenshots and requiring user permission.

• Call Notes - With the Google Pixel 9 series, you no longer need to take notes during a call. The Call Notes feature automatically records call details and provides them to users just seconds after the call ends.

• Pixel Studio - This feature combines an on-device diffusion model powered by Tensor G4 with the Imagen 3 text-to-image model in the cloud.