Meta’s Thread will soon offer its users the option to delete their account without any impact on their Instagram profile, as revealed by a Meta executive at a recent event. The company is actively developing a distinct delete feature for Threads, expected for potential release by December this year. Threads, introduced by Meta in July as a competition to Elon Musk’s X (formerly called Twitter), swiftly gained popularity, with over 10 million sign-ups within its initial hours of launch.

Previously, a significant drawback of Meta’s Threads was its account deletion policy, where deleting a Threads account meant mandatory deletion of the associated Instagram account due to tight integration. However, it appears that Meta is addressing this issue as well.

According to a TechCrunch report, Meta’s chief Privacy Officer (Product), Michel Protti, announced at TechCrunch Disrupt that the company is actively working on a feature allowing users to delete their Threads account independently without affecting their Instagram account. This new feature is expected to be rolled out by December later this year.

These features will be available in which versions?

While he did not specify whether this feature will be exclusive to Android or iOS apps or if it will also extend to the desktop version, he did elaborate that the task of implementing this feature is extremely challenging. As of now, users have the option to deactivate their Threads account and hide the content, all without affecting their Instagram account. Additionally, users can choose to mute their Threads account, preventing notifications.

He also mentioned that the company is actively working on integrating Threads with the fediverse, an interconnected network of independent servers designed for smooth communication. This aligns with Meta's earlier statement about Threads being compatible with the ActivityPub protocol. However, Meta is carefully assessing situations where a user opts to delete a Threads post after it has been transmitted to another server.

As mentioned earlier, Threads was introduced by Meta in July of this year and quickly amassed over 10 million users within the initial hours of its launch.

The smartphone market is a dynamic landscape that offers a wide range of options catering to different budgets. If you're in the market for a feature-rich device without breaking the bank, there are several smartphones that deliver impressive performance, innovative features, and a satisfying user experience.

The smartphone market proves that cutting-edge features and a satisfying user experience don't have to come with a hefty price tag. Whether you're a photography enthusiast, an Apple ecosystem loyalist, or a fan of feature-packed Android devices, there are smartphones under $500 that offer a compelling mix of performance, innovation, and affordability.

Check out this list of 5 smartphones under the budget of $500

1. OnePlus Nord 2 (Approx. $449)

The OnePlus Nord 2 emerges as a standout choice in the sub-$500 category, boasting a powerful MediaTek Dimensity 1200-AI processor. With a 6.43-inch Fluid AMOLED display, a 50MP triple-camera setup, and a 4,500mAh battery, the Nord 2 offers flagship-like features at a mid-range price. OxygenOS, OnePlus' clean and user-friendly interface, adds to the allure, providing a smooth and customizable user experience.

2. Google Pixel 5a (Approx. $449)

The Google Pixel 5a excels in the camera department, featuring a dual-camera setup with a 12.2MP main sensor and a 16MP ultra-wide lens. Known for its exceptional image processing and Night Sight mode, the Pixel 5a ensures stunning photography in various conditions. With a large 6.34-inch OLED display, a Qualcomm Snapdragon 765G processor, and a robust 4,680mAh battery, it's a reliable and camera-centric choice in the mid-range segment.

3. Samsung Galaxy A52s 5G (Approx. $499)

The Samsung Galaxy A52s 5G stands out for its vibrant and large 6.5-inch Super AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, delivering smooth visuals. Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 778G processor, it provides 5G capabilities for faster connectivity. The quad-camera system, featuring a 64MP main sensor, offers versatile shooting options. With One UI's intuitive interface, a 4,500mAh battery, and Samsung's reputation for durability, the A52s 5G brings a premium feel to the mid-range segment.

4. Apple iPhone SE (2nd Gen) (Approx. $399)

The Apple iPhone SE (2nd Gen) caters to users who prefer a compact form factor without compromising on performance. With the powerful A13 Bionic chip, the same found in the iPhone 11 series, it delivers swift performance. The 4.7-inch Retina HD display might be smaller than most, but it ensures a comfortable one-handed usage experience. Running on iOS, it guarantees timely updates and a seamless integration into the Apple ecosystem. Priced attractively, the iPhone SE appeals to those seeking a reliable and compact device within a budget.

5. Xiaomi Poco F3 (Approx. $449): Flagship Features

The Poco F3 from Xiaomi packs a punch with flagship-like features at a budget-friendly price. Sporting a 6.67-inch 120Hz E4 AMOLED display, it offers smooth visuals. Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 870 processor, it's capable of handling demanding tasks. The triple-camera setup, featuring a 48MP main sensor, provides versatile photography options. With a 4,520mAh battery and stereo speakers, the Poco F3 enhances both entertainment and productivity.

Google has made several announcements, which included renaming Bard to Gemini and introducing a new standalone Gemini app for Android. Also, Gemini access was extended to iOS users in the Google app, alongside the launch of Gemini Advanced. For those unfamiliar with Gemini Advanced, it can be compared to ChatGPT Plus. Similar to the premium model of ChatGPT, Gemini Advanced will be offered on a subscription basis and is built on Google’s most sophisticated multimodal model, Gemini Ultra.

Before delving into the details of Gemini Advance, here’s a quick recap of recent developments. Google recently introduced Gemini, its AI multimodal, which is available in three sizes. Firstly, there’s Gemini Nano, designed primarily for on-device tasks. Then there’s Gemini Pro, which offers scalability across various tasks and is slightly more efficient than Nano and finally, there's Gemini Ultra, Google's largest and most capable version of Gemini, as per the company as capable of handling "highly complex tasks." So far, users have had access to Gemini Nano and Gemini Pro through Bard. 

However, the company aimed to simplify the process. Therefore, to "mirror the advanced technology at its core," the company revealed on February 8th that Bard will now be referred to as Gemini. This tool is available online in 40 languages and will soon be accessible through a new Gemini app for Android devices and the Google app on iOS.

What about Gemini Ultra?

Gemini Ultra has been rebranded as Gemini Advanced. According to Google, the Advanced version is proficient in reasoning, following instructions, coding, and creative collaboration.

What is the price of Gemini Advance in India?

Gemini Advanced is available through a subscription to Google One AI Premium, priced starting at Rs 1,950 per month for users in India. This subscription not only provides access to Gemini Advanced but also includes 2TB of storage and access to Gemini across various platforms such as Gmail, Docs, Slides, Sheets, and other platforms previously known as Duet AI.

How to use Gemini Advance

Gemini Advanced is accessible to users through a subscription to the Google One AI Premium plan. This new plan enhances the existing Google One service, which provides increased storage and exclusive product features. In India, the AI Premium plan starts at Rs 130 per month.

Gemini Advance offers users access to features such as "Help me write," powered by Duet AI, now renamed Gemini for Workspace. This implies that subscribers of Gemini Advance can utilize the capabilities of Gemini Ultra within workspace applications like Gmail, Docs, Sheets, Slides, and Meet.

Leading Indian lifestyle brand, Noise, unveils its newest flagship smartwatch, the NoiseFit Origin. Crafted to elevate users' daily experiences with its cutting-edge technology and chic aesthetics, this premium smartwatch has the powerful EN 1 Processor, the innovative Nebula UI, and a sleek contour-cut design. Moreover, it offers an upgraded health suite for thorough health tracking, transcending the conventional realm of a mere smartwatch.

Designed for users craving a perfect and high-performance encounter, the NoiseFit Origin features the EN 1 Processor, delivering a 30% quicker response time and enhanced processing capability, guaranteeing seamless and prompt interactions. The smartwatch also incorporates haptic feedback, delivering subtle vibrations to validate actions, minimizing user errors, and enhancing the overall experience with a smoother and more intuitive interface.

UI/UX Features

The revamped Nebula UI elevates user engagement through refreshed menu layouts, novel icons, and elegant gradients. Enhanced UX features, including well-arranged notification and workout screens, alongside intuitive smart widgets, offer swift access to vital information, simplifying the user experience journey.

Featuring exquisite craftsmanship, the smartwatch highlights a sleek one-piece chiseled stainless steel display with a brushed finish, complemented by distinctive gears on the dial and a functional crown. Offering versatility, it comes with three strap options: magnetic clasp, leather, and silicone, enabling users to personalize their style. Equipped with advanced biometric sensors, it delivers thorough health and fitness monitoring, including insightful metrics such as 'fitness age,' 'readiness analysis,' 'training load,' and 'relaxation reminder' for stress management.

During the launch, Amit Khatri, Co-founder of Noise, underscored the company's dedication to innovation and customer delight. He emphasized the strides made with the EN 1 Processor and the redesigned Nebula UI, showcasing Noise's relentless pursuit of innovation and commitment to delivering exceptional smartwatch experiences.

Impressive Features

The NoiseFit Origin showcases a 1.46-inch ApexVision AMOLED display, delivering sharp visuals and offering an Always-On Display with various modes. With water resistance up to 3ATM, it accommodates over 100 sports modes and watch faces. Additionally, the smartwatch has fast-charging capabilities, ensuring reliability and convenience for daily use. Equipped with advanced tracking sensors, it tracks heart rate, sleep, blood oxygen levels, stress, and female cycles, providing users with a comprehensive health overview. 

Further functionalities comprise instinctive gestures for call muting and remote photo capture, alongside smart widgets for swift data retrieval. Smart DND and Scheduled DND functionalities aid in maintaining focus and ensuring uninterrupted rest. The NoiseFit Origin offers six color options: Jet Black, Silver Grey, Midnight Black, Mosaic Blue, Classic Black, and Classic Brown. Priced at INR 6,499, it is accessible for purchase on gonoise.com and at Croma stores. Starting from June 7th, it will also be available on Flipkart and Amazon.

Apple has launched the first phase of the iOS 18.2 beta, introducing several new features powered by Apple Intelligence. This recent update includes Visual Intelligence, Genmoji, and Image Playground, but the standout feature is the integration of ChatGPT. This capability aims to enhance the writing tools combined with Apple Intelligence and can also be utilized with Siri. While this development is exciting, incorporating a third-party app into the Apple ecosystem raises potential concerns. However, has assured users that this decision was made after careful consideration.

Privacy Policy for Apple and ChatGPT

On the introductory page for Apple Intelligence, Apple states, "You have control over when ChatGPT is utilized, and you will be prompted before any of your information is shared. Anyone can access ChatGPT for free without needing to create an account. ChatGPT subscribers can link their accounts to unlock paid features within these experiences."

Apple has ensured that ChatGPT collects minimal information. On the Ask Siri, Dictation, and Privacy page, the company explains that Siri gathers limited data. When using ChatGPT via Siri, Writing Tools, or the Visual Intelligence feature in iOS 18.2, Apple collects only the essential data needed to operate the service and maintain its security. This includes metrics such as the number of ChatGPT requests made, their size, and general information to prevent misuse. If users choose to participate in the "Improve Siri and Dictation" program, additional data, including audio recordings and transcripts of requests, may be collected. However, Apple guarantees that this information is not linked to individual Apple accounts, preserving user anonymity. If you want any more information about Siri’s data handling practices, please refer to Apple’s privacy page.

It's encouraging that Apple offers clear information on how the integration of ChatGPT in iOS 18.2 addresses privacy concerns. By detailing the process of user data handling, Apple allows users to make informed decisions about enabling features such as Siri’s enhanced capabilities. This transparency enables users to evaluate the advantages of the new ChatGPT-powered tools about their personal privacy preferences, ensuring they feel confident and secure when opting into these features. Apple’s approach underscores its commitment to user privacy while introducing powerful AI functionalities.

Integration of ChatGPT into iOS 18.2

In the iOS 18.2 beta, Apple has integrated ChatGPT into Siri, significantly improving its conversational abilities. With this enhancement, Siri can provide more detailed and contextually aware responses, including answers to questions related to photos or documents. The integration also extends to Apple’s Writing Tools, enabling users to generate content such as emails or texts more efficiently. Users can access free features of ChatGPT, while those subscribed to OpenAI’s services can utilize advanced tools. This update continues to prioritize privacy, giving users control over when and how their data interacts with ChatGPT.

Interestingly, users can access the ChatGPT integration without the need to create an account. However, if you already have a ChatGPT account, you can link it to the integration for an enhanced experience. This flexibility enables users to seamlessly use the basic features, while those with an account can unlock additional benefits by connecting their accounts.