Signal Could Soon Allow Sharing Usernames Instead of Phone Numbers to Start Chats

Signal, a competitor of WhatsApp known for its encryption, is introducing usernames for chats to safeguard users' phone numbers. Instead of displaying phone numbers to all users by default, Signal will now allow users to create distinct usernames while still requiring a phone number for registration. According to the company, usernames won't be permanent handles or visible to communication partners but serve as a way to connect on Signal without revealing phone numbers. Moreover, a new privacy setting prevents users from initiating conversations or knowing about an account without the exact username. These features, currently in beta, will be available to all users in the coming weeks. Signal also plans to launch a feature enabling users to manage who can find them by phone number. Users can create usernames through the Settings menu, providing an additional layer of privacy and security for their communications.

Oppo F25 Pro 5G expected launch date

Oppo reveals its next F series phone, the Oppo F25 Pro 5G, set to launch in India this month. Alongside unveiling its design and key specs, it's speculated to be a rebranded version of the Oppo Reno 11F 5G recently introduced in Indonesia. The Oppo F25 Pro 5G will debut in a Lava Red hue under the sub-Rs. 25,000 segment on February 29, with a potential blue variant. Featuring a 6.7-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate and Panda Glass protection, it boasts a 93.4% screen-to-body ratio. The rear houses a triple camera setup, including a 64MP primary sensor, an 8MP ultra-wide lens, and a 2MP macro camera, while the front sports a 32MP selfie shooter. Oppo emphasizes AI-driven features like AI Smart Image Matting and enhanced beauty filters. The phone is speculated to carry a MediaTek Dimensity 7050 chipset, up to 8GB RAM, 256GB storage, and a 5,000mAh battery with 67W wired fast charging support.

WhatsApp introduces enhanced text formatting choices to enhance messaging experience

WhatsApp introduces four new text formatting options to enhance communication effectiveness. As of today, users can utilize bulleted and numbered lists, block quotes, and inline code to organize and emphasize their messages, facilitating the breakdown of lengthy texts for improved readability.

These formatting features, previously in development, are now accessible across WhatsApp for Android, iOS, Web, and Mac, including support for Channels. They complement the existing bold, italic, strikethrough, and monospace formats. Users can employ markdown-style syntax directly within messages:

• Bulleted lists: Begin with a "-" followed by a space.
• Numbered lists: Start with one or two digits, a period, and a space ("1. ").
• Block quotes: Prefix text with ">" and a space.
• Inline code: Enclose text with "" symbols, such as like this.`

Vivo Y200e 5G launched in India

Vivo expands its Y series lineup with the introduction of the Y200e 5G smartphone, featuring India's pioneering durable eco-fiber leather and patented anti-stain coating. Available in Saffron Delight and Black Diamond variants, the Y200e 5G is priced at Rs 19,999 for the 6GB+128GB version and Rs 20,999 for the 8GB + 128GB model. Pre-booking commences today across Flipkart, Vivo India e-store, and authorized retail outlets, offering consumers instant cashback up to Rs 1,500 with SBI, IDFC First Bank, Bank of Baroda, IndusInd, Federal Bank, and Yes Bank. Boasting IP54 dust and water resistance, it flaunts a triple camera setup featuring a 50MP Main Camera, 2MP Bokeh Camera, and 16MP Portrait Camera, along with a 16MP front sensor for selfies. Equipped with a Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 processor and a 5000mAh battery supporting 44W fast charging, it also integrates Extended RAM 3.0 for an additional 8GB of RAM, ensuring smooth performance over a 48-month period. Powered by FuntouchOS 14, the Y200e offers a seamless user experience on its 6.67-inch 120Hz Ultra Vision AMOLED Punch Hole Display.

CMF Neckband Pro, CMF Buds India Launch Date

Next month, Nothing's sub-brand will unveil the CMF Neckband Pro and CMF Buds, their latest audio offerings, alongside the upcoming Nothing Phone 2a, slated for release in India and globally. The UK startup, helmed by OnePlus Co-Founder Carl Pei, has begun disclosing specifications for these devices ahead of their launch. Both the CMF Neckband Pro and CMF Buds are set to debut in India on March 5 at 5 pm, coinciding with the launch of the Nothing Phone 2a. These products will be available for purchase through Flipkart, like other items from the company. The CMF Neckband Pro, the brand's inaugural neckband-style headset, features five microphones for AI-driven noise cancellation during calls and supports up to 50dB of hybrid active noise cancellation (ANC). Conversely, the CMF Buds come with a 12.4mm driver incorporating bio fiber and custom TPU materials, offering ANC support, with further details pending announcement. Both devices will be compatible with the Nothing X app and will feature five bass levels as part of the Ultra Bass Technology 2.0, adjustable via a slider. Earlier teasers showcased these products in white and silver hues, though the company's website displays an orange color variant. Additional details regarding pricing and specifications are anticipated to emerge before their debut on March 5.

iQOO Neo 9 Pro Expected launch date

iQOO Neo 9 Pro's India launch is confirmed for February 22nd, with many specifications already disclosed by the company. After its December debut in China, the smartphone enters the Indian market. As per tipster Mukul Sharma, the 8GB RAM/256GB storage variant is priced at ₹37,999, but with a ₹3,000 bank discount, it drops to ₹34,999. Positioned under the ₹40,000 bracket, it competes directly with the newly released OnePlus 12R. iQOO has revealed key specs, including the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 SoC with Q1 supercomputing chipset for enhanced gaming, a 50MP IMX 920 primary sensor with OIS, and an 8MP ultra-wide-angle camera. The device boasts a 5,160mAh battery with 120W fast charging support, facilitating PD charging for compatible devices. The 6.78-inch LTPO AMOLED display offers a 144Hz refresh rate and up to 3,000 nits peak brightness. Interested users can pre-book the iQOO Neo 9 Pro by paying a refundable amount of ₹1,000 to avail of a 2-year warranty and other launch day offers.

Noise Buds N1 launched

Noise introduces the Buds N1, the latest addition to its affordable Buds Series of TWS earbuds, following the recent launch of the ColorFit Macro smartwatch. Featuring 11mm drivers and powered by Quad Mic Environmental Noise Cancellation Technology, the Buds N1 ensures superior call quality. With a remarkable 40-hour total playtime and Instacharge Technology enabling 120 minutes of playback with just 10 minutes of charging, it offers convenience. Additionally, it incorporates Hyper Sync connection technology for swift pairing, a 40ms low latency mode, and IPX5 splash resistance. The Buds N1, available in Carbon Black, Ice Blue, Forest Green, and Calm Beige, carries a price tag of Rs. 899 and will be up for grabs on Amazon.in starting February 27th at 12 noon.

Redmi Buds 5 Review

Xiaomi's focus may be on the Xiaomi 14 series launch, but recently, its sub-brand, Redmi, unveiled the Redmi Buds 5, budget TWS earbuds priced at just Rs 2,999. Offering compelling features and solid audio performance at an affordable price, they're a steal. Plus, they're even cheaper at Rs. 2,499 when purchased with any Redmi Note 13 series phone or Xiaomi and Redmi Pad. Available from February 20 on Mi.com, Amazon.in, Flipkart, Mi Homes, and Xiaomi retail partners, here's what you should know before buying. The Redmi Buds come in Fusion Purple, Fusion Black, and Fusion White, all visually appealing. The White variant, which we reviewed, impresses with its matte finish and compact design. The earbuds, featuring AirPods-like stems, silicone tips, and IP52 dust and water resistance, offer exceptional comfort. With seamless connectivity, intuitive touch controls, dual device support, and AI-driven noise cancellation, they provide a premium experience. Delivering rich, bass-heavy sound tailored to Indian preferences, they excel in voice calls and offer remarkable battery life, making them a standout choice in the crowded TWS market.