Vivo's X100 and X100 Pro smartphones will be launched globally on December 14

On November 14, Vivo introduced its latest smartphones, the X100 and X100 Pro, in China, and the company is now gearing up for a global launch. The official announcement on Vivo's website has stirred excitement among tech enthusiasts worldwide. Boasting an impressive array of features, including the MediaTek Dimensity 9300 processor, the newly launched smartphones promise an exceptional mobile experience. The global launch is set for December 14, exactly a month after their debut in China, with Vivo expected to stream the event on its official social media platforms.

When initially launched in China, the Vivo X100 was priced at 3,999 Yuan (approximately Rs. 45,600), while the X100 Pro series was priced at 4,999 Yuan (around Rs. 57,000). The global pricing is yet to be revealed. The phones, available in Chen Ye Black, Star Trail Blue, Sunset Orange, and White Moonlight colors, feature a 6.78-inch curved AMOLED display with a 120Hz adaptive refresh rate for an immersive visual experience.

Diving into specifics, let's explore the camera and battery aspects of the phones. The X100 boasts a 50MP main sensor with a Sony IMX VCS sensor and a 64MP telephoto camera with a Zeiss lens, offering up to 3x optical zoom. In comparison, the X100 Pro features a 50MP primary sensor with a Sony IMX989 lens and a 50MP Zeiss lens, providing an impressive 4.3x optical zoom. Both devices incorporate a 50MP ultra-wide-angle camera for stunning photography capabilities. Regarding the battery, the X100 comes with a 5,000 mAh battery and a 100W charger, while the X100 Pro elevates the game with a 5,400 mAh battery and a 120W wired charger.

Ensuring top-notch performance and a seamless user experience, both devices offer up to 16GB of LPDDR5T RAM and up to 1TB of UFS 4.0 storage. Connectivity options include USB-C 3.2, WiFi-7, 5G, NFC, and Bluetooth 5.3. Despite the global anticipation, Vivo is yet to disclose the official launch date for the X100 series in India, adding an extra layer of excitement for fans.

WhatsApp is set to introduce a new feature called Channel Alerts in the near future

WhatsApp, owned by Meta, is gearing up to introduce compelling features for Android users, including the Channel Alerts feature, the capability to search messages by date, and an option to hide navigation labels and the top bar while scrolling through the app. As per information from WABetaInfo, the new Channel Alerts feature has been unveiled in the WhatsApp Beta for Android 2.23.26.6 update and will be progressively available to all users in the coming days. This feature aims to enhance the experience for channel users by offering real-time information about the suspension status of their channel. Channel administrators can leverage Channel Alerts to stay informed about potential violations of WhatsApp's policies and request a review of their suspension directly from the Channel Alerts screen. The transparency brought by the Channel Alerts feature allows users to identify issues with their channels and outline necessary actions for resolution.

Additionally, Meta is rolling out two more features on its Android app soon: firstly, the ability to hide navigation labels and the top app bar when scrolling down, providing users with a larger view of chats, call logs, community group chats, and channels. Secondly, the introduction of a feature enabling users to search messages by date, streamlining the process of navigating chat history and locating specific messages. Notably, WhatsApp is also exploring integration with Instagram through a new status update feature. According to WABetaInfo, users will soon be able to share their WhatsApp status updates directly as Stories on Instagram, potentially saving users significant time.

Google introduces Photomoji in Messages app

In a recent update to its Messages app, Google has introduced an innovative feature known as Photomoji, poised to revolutionize the way users express themselves in messaging. Initially exclusive to beta testers, this feature is set to roll out to all users in the coming weeks. Photomoji in Google Messages allows users to craft and send personalized emoji reactions using their own images. This means you can capture a picture of your own facial expression, feature a beloved pet, or even photograph an object that perfectly conveys your reaction to a message. Essentially, it's about creating emojis that are uniquely yours, injecting a personal and intimate touch into your conversations. By utilizing your own facial expressions, personal photos, or objects that resonate with your emotions, Photomoji enables you to convey feelings in a way standard emojis cannot. This feature transcends conventional emoji sets by allowing the use of real-life images to authentically capture your reactions. To familiarize users with this exciting new feature, Google has shared some key details. Currently, Photomoji operates solely in a specific type of chat known as RCS chats. Users can create and maintain up to 30 Photomoji at a time, easily modifying or deleting them from the dedicated "Photomoji" section in the app. However, not everyone may have access to this feature just yet, as it is still in the process of being made available to all users. To check its availability, users are encouraged to update their Google Messages app or consider joining the beta program for early access.

Apple restricts Beeper Mini's iMessage service due to security concerns

Beeper Mini, the newly introduced Android app offering access to Apple's iMessage service for a monthly fee, faced an outage shortly after its release. The app, created by former Pebble Co-Founder Eric Migicovsky, encountered a setback when Apple confirmed blocking its service, citing privacy and security concerns. Despite Apple's claims of Beeper Mini exploiting "fake credentials," Beeper asserts the safety of its service and is actively working to restore the app. Users experienced issues such as "failed to lookup on server: lookup request timed out" messages. Beeper acknowledged the problem and assured users of ongoing efforts to rectify the situation. Apple defended its actions, emphasizing the significant risks posed to user security and privacy by Beeper's techniques. Beeper Mini contends that its messaging service provides end-to-end encryption and enhances security compared to unencrypted SMS. The company expressed a willingness to share its source code for security evaluation with mutually agreed-upon third parties. Founder Eric Migicovsky questioned Apple's commitment to user privacy, asking why they would block a service enabling encrypted messages between iPhone and Android users. Beeper is optimistic about resolving the issues and promised to share positive updates with users soon. The service, priced at $1.99 per month, aimed to facilitate communication between Android and iOS users via iMessage.

Sony PlayStation VR2

Exciting news for gamers in India – the Sony PlayStation VR2 is now officially available! The cutting-edge virtual reality headset can be purchased through the official Sony online store. Priced at Rs 57,999, the standard PlayStation VR2 package includes the VR headset, advanced Sense controllers, and all essential accessories. For those seeking an elevated experience, the PlayStation VR2 Horizon Call of the Mountain bundle is priced at Rs 61,999. This comprehensive package not only encompasses the standard equipment but also adds extra accessories and an exclusive voucher code for the highly anticipated Horizon: Call of the Mountain game.

Inside the bundle, you'll find the PSVR headset, Sense controllers, USB cable, stereo headphones, earpieces, and informative printed materials. Additionally, it includes an exclusive PlayStation Store voucher code to immerse yourself in the action-packed Horizon: Call of the Mountain game.

The PlayStation VR2 features a second-generation design with significant improvements over its predecessor. With an OLED display offering a 110-degree field-of-view, 4K HDR playback support, and a smooth 120Hz refresh rate, it provides an enhanced gaming experience. Equipped with four front cameras, users can enjoy features like a see-through view, a customizable play area, and other advanced functionalities. It's crucial to note that the PlayStation VR2 is exclusive to the PlayStation 5 console, requiring gamers to have a PS5 console to unlock its full potential. With a library of over 20 supported games, including the highly anticipated Horizon: Call of the Mountain, the PlayStation VR2 promises an unparalleled virtual reality gaming experience.

Infinix SMART 8

Infinix has introduced the SMART 8 HD, the latest addition to its budget smartphone lineup in the SMART series, succeeding the SMART 7 HD launched earlier this year. The phone features a 6.6-inch HD+ display, retaining the size of its predecessor, but with the addition of a punch-hole design and an impressive 90Hz refresh rate, marking a first in this segment, according to the company. Powering the device is an Octa-Core T606 SoC from Unisoc, a significant upgrade from the Unisoc SC9863A SoC used in the previous model. With 3GB of RAM and an additional 3GB of virtual RAM, along with 64GB of storage, the SMART 8 HD also boasts a 13MP rear camera paired with an AI lens and an 8MP front camera. Noteworthy features include a side-mounted fingerprint sensor, a unique timber texture finish on the back, and the Magic Ring offering functionalities like Face Unlock, Background Call, Charging Animation, Charge Completion Reminder, and Low Battery Reminder. The smartphone houses a 5000mAh battery and shifts from USB Type-C to USB Type-C charging. Available in Timber Black, Shinny Gold, Galaxy White, and Crystal Green colors, the Infinix Smart 8 HD can be purchased at an introductory price of Rs. 6,299 on Flipkart starting December 13th. Additionally, there is a 10% discount on Axis bank cards for a limited period, bringing the effective price down to Rs. 5669.

WhatsApp now allows you to send voice messages that vanish after a single viewing using the "view once" feature

WhatsApp now introduces the option to send self-destructing voice messages, joining the ranks of 'view once' photos and videos introduced in 2021. Tailored for sensitive conversations, this feature allows you to delete voice messages after the recipient has listened to them. Meta, the owner of WhatsApp, announced the global rollout of view once messages in a recent blog post. The process of sending view once voice notes mirrors that of disappearing photos or videos. Meta emphasizes the added security for sharing sensitive information, such as credit card details or surprises, through voice messages. These messages are clearly marked with a 'one-time' icon, akin to view once photos and videos, and can only be played once. WhatsApp's end-to-end encryption ensures the privacy of voice notes, extending an additional layer of security for private conversations. While recipients can technically record and keep these messages indefinitely, caution is advised in sharing intimate details only with trusted contacts. WhatsApp continues its focus on privacy features, including the recent introduction of the "secret code" for locking chats with a password and the ability to entirely conceal locked chats from the chat list. Additionally, locking chats has been simplified by allowing users to do so with a long press directly from the chat list.

Threads tags are rolling out globally

Tags, essentially hashtags with a unique approach, are now being globally introduced on Threads, as announced by Instagram head Adam Mosseri on Thursday. The functionality of tags differs slightly from traditional hashtags on platforms such as Instagram and X (formerly Twitter). When crafting a Threads post, initiating a tag involves tapping the # symbol and entering your chosen topic. Unlike conventional hashtags, you're not confined to a single word; you can input an entire phrase (including spaces) and include special characters, Mosseri explained. It's worth noting, though, that only one tag per post is allowed.

The purpose of tags on Threads aligns with that of hashtags – they serve as an effective means to connect with individuals interested in the topics you're discussing. According to Mosseri, "If you share on Threads, [tags are] a great way to help connect with people who are interested in the topics you’re talking about. And for everyone, it’s a great way to help dive deeper into your interests." Meta's implementation, including the restriction to a single tag, is appreciated for its clever approach to prevent intrusive hashtag spam. Nevertheless, the adoption of tags by users will ultimately determine their utility as a valuable tool for discovering conversations about specific topics.