Asianet Newsable

WhatsApp Scam Alert: Never Download Blurry Photos From Unknown Numbers, Experts Warn Users

Nancy Tiwari — Wed, 23 Sep 2026 15:16:00 +0530

Cybersecurity experts have warned WhatsApp users about a new scam involving blurry photos sent from unknown numbers. Downloading the image could expose devices to malware, potentially putting sensitive banking information at risk.

Cyber security departments have issued a serious alert about a new cyber fraud. Scammers send photos on WhatsApp from unknown numbers. You download these images, and malware installs itself on your smartphone. This virus then steals all the money from your bank account.

Cyber criminals are targeting innocent people and their bank accounts with highly advanced scams. This new fraud targets WhatsApp users across India and the world.

Scammers send a blurry photo with a casual message like, "How are you? Hope you are doing well," or "Do you know this person?".

People usually avoid suspicious links, but they click these photos out of curiosity. You click the photo, and scammers drain every single rupee from your account.

An unknown number sends you a blurry photo disguised as a greeting, meme, holiday wish, or advertisement. You click the photo to download it, and a dangerous malware or fake app secretly downloads onto your smartphone.

This malware immediately starts sending your private data to the scammers. It hacks into your banking apps, steals your passwords, and transfers your money instantly.

Officials strictly advise the public to never open or click any files, links, or photos from unknown numbers.

You must change your WhatsApp settings immediately to stay safe. Open WhatsApp Settings and select the Storage and Data option. You need to completely turn off the Media auto-download feature.

Disable automatic downloads for all three options: When using mobile data, When connected on Wi-Fi, and When roaming.

You should also educate elderly people, less tech-savvy users, and those who cannot read or write about this dangerous scam.

iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max in 17 Minutes? Blinkit, Zepto Bring Apple’s Newest iPhone to Your Door

Gargi Chaudhry — Fri, 18 Sep 2026 11:46:45 +0530

The iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max are now on sale in India, with long queues forming at Apple Stores. However, quick commerce platforms like Blinkit and Zepto are offering instant doorstep delivery with bank discounts and EMI options.

The iPhone 18 Pro sale day is here in India and many other countries. There are already a lot of people in queue at the Apple Store, eager to get their pre-ordered items. What if you want the iPhone 18 Pro sent right to your door? Blinkit and Zepto both have iPhone 18 Pro stocks on their sites.

You can buy either the iPhone 18 Pro or the iPhone 18 Pro Max in any of the four colours. You can also get extra discounts from banks and pay over time with no interest.

When you can get the iPhone 18 Pros brought right to your house with discounts, there's no reason to go outside and stand in queue. To get you a better price on the new iPhones, Blinkit offers free EMI choices and savings on the iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max with specific credit cards.

On the day of launch, the iPhone 18 Pro kit will be sent to Delhi-NCR, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Pune, Chennai, Jaipur, and Lucknow.

Zepto, on the other hand, is providing discounts of up to Rs 7,000 on all models of the iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max. Zepto offers the iPhone 18 Pro in stock in Chennai, Bengaluru, Mumbai, and Delhi NCR.

In India, the standard 256GB model of the iPhone 18 Pro costs Rs 1,64,900, while the 18 Pro Max costs Rs 1,79,900. This year, the new iPhone 18 Pro series is available in silver, burgundy, black, and blue. The iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max from Apple are priced at Rs 3,14,900 and Rs 3,29,900, respectively, and come with up to 2TB of storage.

The iPhone Duo foldable will begin pre-orders on October 16 and launch on sale in India on October 23, while the iPhone 18 Pros are already on the market.

iPhone 18 Pro Sale: Massive Queue Outside Delhi Store | Buyers Wait Overnight | Tech News

Asianet Newsable English — Fri, 18 Sep 2026 11:12:18 +0530

Long queues formed in Delhi as eager buyers waited for the official sale of the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max. Some customers arrived from outside the capital, while others said they had been waiting since 10 PM. With tokens and scheduled slots in place, Apple fans turned up early to get their hands on the latest iPhone models.

iPhone 18 Pro Fever: Delhi Man Sold Gold to Buy New Apple Phone for Wife, Remark Goes Viral as Buyers Queue Up

Gargi Chaudhry — Fri, 18 Sep 2026 12:11:32 +0530

The iPhone 18 Pro is now on sale in India. The excitement was real, as it is every year. People couldn't wait to get their hands on the newest iPhones, so there were long lines outside the stores before they even opened. India Today Tech went to the Noida Apple Store to talk to some customers. One of them said he had sold gold to get his wife an iPhone 18 Pro.

There was a long line outside the DLF Mall of India before the Apple Store opened at 8 a.m. Indian man at the front of the queue talked to us. He chose an iPhone 18 Pro to give to his wife. He said, "I am buying the iPhone 18 Pro for my wife." He said that his wife had told him to get the burgundy iPhone 18 Pro.

According to media reports, he went on to explain that he wanted to gift his wife this update because she didn't use an iPhone. "Aaj paisa hai, pehle nahi tha, aage hoga nahi hoga, bas aaj main jee rahe hai (at that time, I didn't have that money, now I do, In the coming time, whether we will have money or not, we'll see.)" was his response when asked why he specifically waited for the iPhone 18 Pro.

However, the Delhi guy acknowledged that he had really sold gold in order to make this transaction. "Gold bechke he toh ye lene aaye hai." (I purchased the iPhone 18 Pro by selling gold.)

The queues outside the Noida Apple Store included students, businesspersons and employees. Some customers reportedly took leave from work to be among the early buyers. However, not everyone waiting outside could purchase the device. Customers who had not pre-ordered the iPhone 18 Pro were reportedly not allowed to enter the store to make a purchase.

iPhone 18 Pro Face ID Issue: Apple users face freezing and random reboots

Richa Barua — Tue, 22 Sep 2026 13:45:40 +0530

iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max users have a new headache. Some users complain that the phone freezes when they try to use Face ID. The device then reboots on its own and goes back to the lock screen. This issue does not affect everyone right now. But people have reported several bugs related to Face ID.

Phone hangs during Face ID use

Reports say users face this main problem when they use Face ID to open apps. The iPhone stops responding during the face recognition process. It then restarts automatically. Users say the phone lands back on the lock screen after the reboot. A Reddit user shared this exact experience, according to a MacRumors report. Business Today notes that 9to5Mac first highlighted this post.

'Face ID not available' warning

Similar complaints have popped up on the MacRumors forum too. Some iPhone 18 Pro users say they get a 'Face ID not available' warning when they try to set it up. Others complain about the 'Require Attention' feature. This setting checks if the user is looking at the screen, but it is working inconsistently right now.

Apple changes Face ID hardware

Reports suggest Apple changed the Face ID hardware in the iPhone 18 Pro models. The company moved the infrared camera under the screen to the top left side. They did this to reduce the size of the Dynamic Island. We do not know yet if this hardware change is causing the current Face ID issues. Tech experts think software bugs could also be the reason.

Will iOS 27 update fix this?

MacRumors reports that Apple might fix these Face ID glitches in the upcoming iOS 27 update. Only a limited number of users have filed complaints so far. So, the actual spread of the problem in iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max models remains unclear. We have no proof right now that this bug affects all users.

Make Money Using AI: How to Create Videos and Turn Them Into a Revenue Stream

Richa Barua — Wed, 16 Sep 2026 14:19:30 +0530

Did you know Indian creators are making lakhs by creating videos with AI? You can also earn good money by making videos for weddings, birthdays, and ads. Want to know how to create AI videos? Here are all the details!Making videos with AI is not just a hobby anymore. Many creators are now offering it as a service to earn money. A Mint report says Bengaluru-based Prajwal Rai focuses on AI video projects. He reportedly charges around ₹1 lakh for some videos, like for weddings and birthdays. He also mentioned that in good months, his income has crossed ₹3 lakh.Here's the main point: nobody will pay lakhs just for using an AI tool. The real job is to build a story from the client's photos and ideas. You have to plan the scenes, generate them with AI, add voice and music, and finally, edit it all beautifully. Basically, AI is just a tool; your storytelling and editing skills are what make the service valuable.When you start making an AI video, don't just jump into a tool and start writing prompts. First, you must decide the video's purpose. For example, if it's a wedding anniversary video, write down all the scenes you need from start to finish. You can use an AI tool like ChatGPT to create the story, scene order, and dialogues. But it's important to edit the output to fit your own idea.Once your story is ready, you can create each scene one by one. Tools like Google's Veo 3.1, Runway Gen-4.5, and Kling AI can create video clips from text or images. Trying to make one long video is tough. It's much easier to create small clips and then join them together, as this gives you more control for editing.

Just writing 'create a beautiful video' won't give you the result you want. You need to be very specific. Clearly mention who is in the scene, where they are, what they are doing, the time of day, how the lighting is, how the camera should move, and what their facial expression should be. For instance, instead of 'a man walking in the rain,' describe the location, clothes, the intensity of the rain, camera movement, and the emotion. This gives you much more control over the final scene.

Visuals alone are not enough. You can add an AI-generated voice or use your own, depending on the need. You should also add background music and sound effects. Then, use editing software like CapCut or Premiere Pro to join all the clips, cut out unwanted parts, and create the final video. Always double-check the AI-generated clips for mistakes like weird hands, faces, text, or sounds.

Yes, the opportunity is there. But don't think that AI videos mean automatic money. YouTube doesn't completely ban AI content. However, it might put restrictions on monetisation for content that is repetitive, low-value, and mass-produced, considering it unreliable. So, your human creativity must be clearly visible in the story, information, voice, and editing.

You can offer this skill as a service in many areas, like for wedding anniversary videos, birthday videos, advertisements, social media videos for small companies, and event videos. If you want to start, first pick a niche. Then, create a portfolio with 5-10 high-quality sample videos using AI. After that, you can introduce your service to local companies, ad agencies, and event planners. AI alone won't make you lakhs. The ability to create valuable videos for others using AI is what will turn into income.

Budget Smartphones: Top 10 picks under Rs 10k with 5G and 50MP cameras!

Richa Barua — Fri, 18 Sep 2026 13:18:32 +0530

Searching for a new smartphone for less than ₹10,000? The market is full of solid options for you. We've listed the best phones that offer a 120Hz display, 50MP camera, and even 5G, all within your budget.Buying a smartphone with great features on a tight budget is super easy now. If you have less than ₹10,000 to spend, you have plenty of options. You can get phones with big screens, 120Hz refresh rates, 5G connectivity, powerful batteries, and amazing cameras. Check out the details of the top models in the market right here.Moto G05: Motorola's Moto G05 comes with a 6.67-inch 90Hz display. The company has used a Helio G81 Extreme processor in it. For clear photos, it has a 50MP camera and a 5200mAh battery. It costs ₹7,299. Lava Storm Lite 5G: This is a great option for those who want 5G on a budget. It has a Dimensity 6400 processor, a 6.74-inch 120Hz display, a 50MP camera, and a 5000mAh battery. This 5G phone is priced at just ₹7,999.Tecno Spark Go 2: This smartphone has a 6.67-inch 120Hz display and a Unisoc T7250 processor. It comes with a 13MP camera and a 5000mAh battery. The company has priced this phone at ₹7,499. Vivo Y19e: This model from Vivo comes with a 6.74-inch 90Hz display. They have given it a Unisoc T7225 processor. It has a 13MP camera and a large 5500mAh battery. This phone costs ₹8,999.Lava Shark 2: Here's another new model from Lava, the Lava Shark 2. It comes with a 6.75-inch 120Hz display. The phone features a Unisoc T7250 processor, a 50MP primary camera, and a 5000mAh battery. It also supports 18W fast charging. This phone is priced at ₹7,999.Itel Zeno 200: The Itel Zeno 200 model comes with a 6.75-inch 120Hz display. It uses a Unisoc T7250 processor. This phone offers a 13MP camera, a 5000mAh battery, and 128GB of storage. Its price is ₹9,999. Tecno Pop X: This device from Tecno has a 6.75-inch 120Hz display and a Unisoc T7250 chipset. It features a 13MP rear camera and an 8MP front camera. This phone, with its 5000mAh battery, costs ₹9,499.Boltt Evo: This phone has a 6.79-inch 120Hz display and a Unisoc T7250 processor. For photography, it has a 50MP camera. A large 6000mAh battery provides all-day power. Its price is ₹9,999. POCO C71: This model from Poco has a 6.88-inch 120Hz display and uses a Unisoc T7250 chip. You get a 32MP primary camera and a 5200mAh battery. This phone costs just ₹8,999. Lava Virat V1: This budget phone from Lava is available with a 6.75-inch 90Hz display. It comes with a 13MP camera, a 5000mAh battery, and 4GB RAM. Its price is ₹9,999. Besides these, many other smartphones with great features, 5G, and powerful cameras are available in the market for around ₹10,000.

OpenAI AI Agent Breaches Australia's Medicare Portal, Accesses Non-Public Files In First Such Case

Vaishnav Akash — Thu, 24 Sep 2026 13:47:41 +0530

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said an AI agent built by OpenAI gained unauthorised access to Australia’s Medicare Statistics Reporting Service in June, in what is being described as the first known case of an AI system breaching a government network. The Australian Signals Directorate is now leading the cybersecurity investigation.

Albanese disclosed the episode to reporters in New York on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly, after he spoke directly with OpenAI CEO Sam Altman. He said he conveyed the government’s concern about the incident and how it was handled.

According to Albanese, the OpenAI agent was researching Australian healthcare spending when it encountered access controls on the public-facing Medicare portal. Rather than halting, it worked around those restrictions.

What Was Accessed - And What Wasn’t

Once past the blocks, the agent accessed public and non-public files on the site and even wrote files onto an internal server, authorities say. Investigators are also examining whether three other systems were touched: the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, the New South Wales Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research, and the Victorian Department of Health.

Officials said the portal holds non-sensitive Medicare information, primarily statistics on healthcare spending rather than patient-level records. Both the Australian government and OpenAI say there is no evidence that personal or patient health data was accessed.

OpenAI says the agent’s access was limited to aggregate health statistics and internal file names. A forensic investigation into the full scope of the breach remains underway.

Timeline And OpenAI’s Response

The breach occurred in June, but OpenAI did not inform Australian authorities until September 10. Services Australia then reported the matter to the Australian Signals Directorate’s cybersecurity centre on September 15.

Albanese said he raised Australia’s “extreme concern” with Altman, pointing in particular to the time taken to notify authorities once the issue was discovered.

OpenAI said the incident was not a deliberate attack but arose during an internal evaluation. A company spokesperson said its models were seeking answers and statistics about Australia and “in the course of that, our models took actions we did not intend.”

The company said it became aware in August during a broader review of agent activity, launched in part after a separate July episode linked its systems to unauthorised access on Hugging Face’s platform. OpenAI says it has notified affected organisations and is providing technical support as authorities continue their inquiries.

For AI Governance, Hard Laws Over Hollow Words

Rajeev Chandrasekhar — Fri, 18 Sep 2026 20:50:20 +0530

On September 10, Anthropic published a 154-page threat intelligence report documenting nine months of AI misuse — December 2025 to August 2026. Two days later, Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei published a blog post calling on the industry to slow the development of frontier AI. Within hours, OpenAI’s Sam Altman and Elon Musk both agreed. Read together, these two documents tell us everything we need to know about where AI governance must go next.

The misuse cases Anthropic documented span seven harm categories and range from state-sponsored operations to lone actors. The transparency is commendable.

But the report’s deeper significance is structural. AI is no longer merely a tool that generates harmful content. It is now an orchestration layer — connected to other software, running multiple stages of an operation simultaneously, enabling sophisticated attacks with fewer people and less expertise than ever before. Anthropic calls this “uplift”: The AI capability boost measured in speed, scale, and depth of harm. A flagged Bangladesh disinformation operation was almost entirely automated — AI generated the content, other software turned it into videos, scheduling algorithms published them at optimised times. One person, 29 accounts, 1,500 fabricated stories. That is uplift.

And what Anthropic caught is almost certainly a subset of what was attempted. Anthropic also acknowledges that for its most capable current models, it can no longer assure that a sophisticated actor could not receive meaningful assistance in biological weapons research. That is not reassurance. It is an admission that there are no guardrails to prevent harm because governance has not kept pace.

Amodei’s warning was stark: AI has been advancing drastically faster since roughly this summer, and swarms of rogue AI agents could take over the internet within six to 12 months. Three fierce competitors — building the world’s most powerful AI — who have spent billions racing each other agreed in one weekend. That is not a PR moment; it is a fire alarm.

I asked a simple question on X: Is a voluntary slowdown possible? The competitive pressures, the capital, and geopolitics — with China operating outside any such agreement — make a unilateral slowdown extraordinarily difficult to sustain. Venture capitalist Chamath Palihapitiya noted the obvious: A market leader calling for a slowdown is also, conveniently, calling for an arrangement that protects its lead.

The voluntary slowdown debate is the wrong frame entirely. The right question is not how to slow development. It is how to accelerate governance.

When I served as Minister of State for Electronics and Information Technology under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, we built India’s platform accountability framework on the principle of Safe, Trusted, and Accountable. The IT Rules of 2021 established legal obligations for platforms operating at scale. That framework saw the future before it was obvious. Anthropic’s report vindicates it.

The Bangladesh case is directly relevant to India. The techniques — automated account creation, AI-generated content at scale, optimised for rural low-literacy audiences — are applicable to any democracy with a large, linguistically diverse electorate. India has 950 million eligible voters and continuous state elections. AI-generated disinformation in various languages is easy to produce and difficult to detect. Requiring platforms to detect and disrupt such operations is not regulatory overreach. It is democratic self-defence.

The Alibaba distillation campaign — 151 million AI exchanges to copy a competitor’s capabilities — will be run against Indian AI models too. The surveillance cases are a direct warning about AI becoming an instrument of control by those who possess it rather than communication, threatening the right to privacy guaranteed under Article 21 of the Constitution.

For India, several guardrails must be in place. Every AI platform above a defined scale threshold must be required to report detected misuse to CERT-In and a designated AI Safety Authority. To avoid cases like the Bangladesh operation, mandatory watermarking of AI-generated content in political and public interest contexts is essential.

AI now orchestrates multi-step operations across software systems. Platform accountability rules must explicitly cover agentic AI — systems that act in the world, not merely generate text. New legislation must explicitly prohibit and criminalise systematic distillation and fraudulent mass API access.

Voluntary disclosure is not a governance system. We need a statutory body with powers to compel disclosure, audit systems, and impose restrictions. Governance risks can only be addressed by law.

India is uniquely positioned to demonstrate this. We are not the US, constrained by a deregulatory administration. We are not the EU, whose ambition has sometimes outrun its technical understanding. We are the world’s largest democracy with a proven record of building technology policy at scale — DPI, UPI, Aadhaar, the IT Rules — and a direct stake in ensuring AI serves 1.4 billion citizens rather than a handful of American or Chinese technology companies.

The call from Silicon Valley’s most powerful is, in effect, an invitation to governments to act. India can lead it with a legal framework that makes safety and accountability mandatory, enforceable, and permanent.

The writer, former MP, former minister of state for Electronics & Information Technology, Government of India, is BJP Kerala state president and MLA for Nemom. Views are personal

India Raps Meta Over Algorithms: Social Media Giant Pushed to Take Full Content Responsibility

Asianet Newsable English — Wed, 16 Sep 2026 19:53:02 +0530

Meta can no longer be viewed as a 'simple intermediary' when its algorithms play an active role in amplifying content and deciding what users see, government sources said on Wednesday. The development comes amid Centre stepping up its scrutiny of the social media giant over child safety and harmful online content. The government's position comes shortly after Meta agreed to report child safety-related matters directly to Indian law enforcement agencies through the cybercrime portal managed by the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C).

Government questions Meta’s safe-harbour protection

According to government sources, Meta’s role in deciding the visibility and reach of content through its algorithms means it should be treated as a 'service provider' rather than merely a passive intermediary. The sources said service providers have responsibilities towards users and argued that Meta would need to take greater responsibility for content available on its platforms, including Facebook and Instagram.

The government also believes Meta does not have legal immunity in the present situation. However, officials stressed that the final interpretation of the law and any decision on whether the company is entitled to immunity rests with the judiciary.

"But we believe they do not have the immunity," government sources said.

The distinction is important because intermediary status can provide platforms with legal protection, subject to applicable conditions and due-diligence requirements. The government’s latest position indicates that it wants platforms to take greater responsibility where their own systems actively influence how content is distributed.

Meta agrees to report child safety cases to India

The government’s comments come after Meta agreed to report child safety matters directly to India’s cybercrime reporting system.

Until now, Meta has reported instances of child sexual abuse material to the US-based National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), which coordinates with law enforcement agencies in different countries.

Meta has now agreed to report such matters directly to the cybercrime portal managed by I4C in India.

A Meta spokesperson said protecting children on its platforms was a priority and that the company was committed to working with the government to ensure that perpetrators of such crimes were held responsible.

The company said the direct reporting mechanism was intended to strengthen efforts to tackle child exploitation and improve cooperation with Indian authorities.

The move followed several rounds of discussions between the Centre and Meta executives over online child safety and the handling of harmful content.

Why Meta is under scrutiny in India

The latest developments follow growing concerns in India about child sexual exploitation material, deepfakes and other harmful content appearing on social media platforms.

In July, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) issued a notice to Meta over allegations concerning Child Sexual Exploitative and Abuse Material (CSEAM) in paid advertisements on Instagram.

The ministry directed Instagram to disable advertisements and content that promoted or facilitated access to such material and sought an explanation from the company.

Meta later said it took the concerns seriously and removed violating advertisements and accounts after investigating the issue. The company has also said its systems had detected and disabled several violating ads and accounts.

The government, however, continued discussions with Meta and pressed for stronger safeguards and faster action against harmful content.

NCPCR's inquiry

The issue is also being examined by the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR).

The child rights body issued a notice to Meta Platforms, Inc. on July 3, 2026, seeking an explanation over allegations concerning CSEAM advertisements. Meta submitted its response about a week later.

Following the response, NCPCR decided to institute a formal inquiry to establish the facts of the matter.

The commission has since summoned Meta India’s Managing Director and Head for another hearing as part of the ongoing inquiry. Government sources said the hearing is scheduled for September 16.

NCPCR has the power to take suo motu notice of matters involving deprivation or violation of child rights and inquire into complaints relating to child rights and the implementation of laws protecting children.

Centre says child safety is non-negotiable

The government has made it clear that online safety of children is a key requirement for social media companies operating in India.

Government sources have described child safety as a “fundamental principle” and said it is “non-negotiable”.

The Centre has also been engaging with other social media platforms to push for stronger systems to identify, remove and report harmful material involving children.

The broader regulatory debate goes beyond child abuse material. Social media companies are facing increasing scrutiny over the way recommendation algorithms influence what users see, as well as concerns around harmful content, online addiction, mental health, deepfakes and algorithmic bias.

(With inputs from agencies)

Buying an Electric Bike? A Complete Guide for Women Who Love to Feel Sporty

Asianet Newsable English — Wed, 16 Sep 2026 17:49:57 +0530

Best E-Bikes: Electric bikes and scooters are everywhere, but electric cycles are quietly becoming the new trend. Women are absolutely loving these e-bikes right now.

You can skip the crazy city traffic, save the environment, and easily reach the office. They are also perfect for quick grocery runs or daily fitness routines. The market has hundreds of e-cycle options today. We have broken down the best choices for women below.

You can just pedal them like a normal cycle if the battery runs out. They do feel a bit heavy, though. Step-through frame cycles are super comfortable for women because you can get on and off easily. Reports show these specific models are in huge demand.

City Commute (Daily Travel)

Cycle Model	Why you will love it	Estimated Price (INR)
Huffy Vienna	Best choice for low budgets	₹59,400
Ride1Up Roadster V3	Super lightweight and easy to lift	₹1,18,500
Aventon Level 4 REC	Great motor and battery for the price	₹1,69,900
Priority Current Plus	Ultimate high-speed bike	From ₹2,80,400

Mountain Rides (eMTB)

Cycle Model	Why you will love it	Estimated Price (INR)
Aventon Current ADV	Full power mountain bike on a budget	₹3,39,900
Orbea Rise SL	Perfect for steep uphill roads	₹4,83,000
Trek Fuel+ EX	Super silent with premium quality	₹6,79,900

Family & Cargo (For Kids)

Cycle Model	Why you will love it	Estimated Price (INR)
Segway MUXI	Top class safety features	₹1,44,400
Aventon Abound LR	Carries heavy weight and gets a throttle	₹1,69,900
Xtracycle Swoop ASM	Extremely powerful motor	₹3,82,400
Bunch Bike	You can easily seat 4 kids inside this	₹5,52,400

Comfort & Cruiser (Relaxed Riding)

Cycle Model	Why you will love it	Estimated Price (INR)
Retrospec Beaumont Rev+	Easy to use with a handy carrier	₹1,35,900
Aventon Pace 5 REC	Custom made for beginner riders	₹1,52,900
Priority Glide	Smooth feel just like a regular cycle	₹1,52,900
Electra Townie Go!	Stylish looks with a very comfortable seat	₹1,78,400

Want iPhone 18 Pro or iPhone Duo? Here’s How Apple Upgrade Works and Is It Available In India?

Gargi Chaudhry — Sat, 26 Sep 2026 14:39:46 +0530

Apple said on Wednesday that qualified consumers would be able to pay for the iPhone Duo, iPhone 18 Pro, and iPhone 18 Pro Max in monthly installments through the Apple Upgrade, a leasing program offered by Klarna and accessible in the US. Customers have the choice of 12 or 24-month agreements, with the 24-month option starting at $34.99 per month.

Apple launched Apple Upgrade in the US on 28 July. The Klarna-backed leasing programme covers iPhone, Apple Watch, Mac and iPad and is available online, in the Apple Store app, and at Apple retail stores. Customers can choose 12- or 24-month leases for iPhone and Apple Watch, and 24- or 36-month leases for Mac and iPad.

Leasing prices start at:

$17.99 per month for iPhone
$11.99 per month for Apple Watch
$24.99 per month for Mac, and
$11.99 per month for iPad

Enrolees can lower payments by trading in their current device through Apple Trade In. They also earn 3% Daily Cash back when paying with Apple Card. Customers have three options at the conclusion of the lease: upgrade, purchase the gadget completely, or just return it and stop participating. They may monitor all of their leasing details, such as their billing schedule and outstanding payments, using the Klarna app.

As of right now, the services are only offered in the United States and not in any other nation, including India.

What Did Apple Announce On September 9?

On Wednesday, Apple also announced the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max at its launch event. The 18 Pro and Pro Max come in deep black, silver, “glacier,” and burgundy, with colour-matched back glass. They also have a new A20 Pro chip and, purportedly, the longest battery life in an iPhone.

iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max Now Available In India: Check EMI, Cashback, Offers and Storage Options

Gargi Chaudhry — Fri, 18 Sep 2026 20:28:34 +0530

Apple has officially launched iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max in India, featuring new A20 Pro chip and upgraded triple-camera system. Prices start at Rs 1,64,900, with buyers able to utilize No-Cost EMI plans, upto Rs 15,000 cashback, and trade-in credits.

Apple’s latest flagship smartphones—the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max—have officially gone on sale in India. Available in four storage tiers (256GB, 512GB, 1TB, and 2TB), prices start at Rs 1,64,900 for the iPhone 18 Pro and Rs 1,79,900 for the top-tier iPhone 18 Pro Max.

To help buyers manage the purchase cost, Apple has partnered with several major financial institutions to offer No-Cost EMI plans and cashback promotions. Both models feature the new A20 Pro processor and an upgraded triple-camera setup with 48MP main (variable aperture), 48MP ultra-wide, and 48MP telephoto sensors.

Eligible credit cardholders (including American Express, Axis Bank, and ICICI Bank) can access 3-month or 6-month No-Cost EMI options. When combined with eligible card offers, buyers can also receive an instant cashback of up to Rs 15,000.

iPhone 18 Pro Storage: Price — 3-Month EMI (Approx.) — 6-Month EMI (Approx.)

256GB: Rs 1,64,900 — Rs 49,967/month — Rs 24,983/month

512GB: Rs 1,89,900 — Rs 58,300/month — Rs 29,150/month

1TB: Rs 2,39,900 — Rs 74,967/month — Rs 37,483/month

2TB: Rs 3,14,900 — Rs 1,04,967/month — Rs 52,483/month

iPhone 18 Pro Max Storage: Price — 3-Month EMI (Approx.) — 6-Month EMI (Approx.)

256GB: Rs 1,79,900 — Rs 54,967/month — Rs 27,483/month

512GB: Rs 2,04,900 — Rs 63,300/month — Rs 31,650/month

1TB: Rs 2,54,900 — Rs 84,967/month ---- Rs 42,483/month

2TB: Rs 3,29,900 ---- Rs 1,04,967/month ---- Rs 52,483/month

Customers looking to upgrade from an existing phone can take advantage of the Apple Trade-In program. Depending on the model, brand, and overall physical condition of the old device, buyers can receive up to Rs 81,500 in instant trade-in credit toward their purchase.

Best Budget Tablets 2026: 10 Affordable Options for Streaming, Study and Work

Zetan Kumari — Wed, 23 Sep 2026 10:31:33 +0530

Looking for an affordable tablet in 2026? Explore 10 budget-friendly options across different price ranges, with picks for studying, streaming, browsing, gaming and everyday use in India.

Smartphone screens feel too small for videos, and you cannot carry a laptop everywhere. Tablets solve this exact problem. But which models actually give you true value for money? The International Data Corporation (IDC) recently reported a 12.3% drop in global tablet shipments to 33.6 million in Q2 2026. High RAM and storage component prices caused this dip. Despite this price hike, we tested and picked the top 5 budget tablets of 2026 based on performance, display quality, and battery life.

Overall Number 1: Apple iPad 11-inch (A16).

Best for Android fans: Xiaomi Redmi Pad 2.

7 years of updates: Samsung Galaxy Tab A11+.

Best under $200: Amazon Fire HD 10.

Best for students: Lenovo Idea Tab Pro.

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Apple brings a solid all-rounder with the powerful A16 chip, 128GB base storage, Type-C port, Wi-Fi 6, and a crisp Liquid Retina display. The tablet handles web browsing, video editing, and heavy gaming without any lag. The battery lasted a solid 11 hours and 25 minutes during our tests. The device switches apps fast and handles split-screen multitasking smoothly. The only minor drawbacks are the lack of a 90Hz or 120Hz refresh rate found in Android rivals and some Apple Pencil restrictions.

Price starts at ₹49,900 in India for the 128GB Wi-Fi variant.

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Xiaomi breaks the rule that budget tablets compromise on display quality. The 11-inch 2.5K screen runs on a 90Hz refresh rate, making scrolling super smooth. The 16:10 aspect ratio works perfectly for watching movies and reading books. The Helio G100-Ultra chipset might not support hardcore gaming, but it easily handles social media, streaming, and daily tasks. The massive 7,500mAh battery and 2TB expandable memory slot make it highly practical for everyday use.

Price starts at around ₹19,699 in India for the 4GB RAM and 128GB storage variant.

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Samsung fixes the biggest complaint about budget tablets by offering long-term software support. The company promises 7 generations of Android OS updates and 7 years of security patches for this device. The tablet packs an 11-inch 90Hz FHD screen, a 7040mAh battery, 4 speakers, and up to 8GB RAM. It offers a great package for reading, online classes, and watching videos. However, you cannot expect OLED-level deep black contrast from this display.

Price starts at around ₹25,999.

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Amazon offers the perfect choice for buyers who want a good tablet at a very low price. The 10.1-inch Full HD screen, octa-core processor, and 4GB RAM deliver a great experience for daily movie streaming and Kindle reading. The device impressed us in lab tests by delivering a battery backup of 12 hours and 39 minutes. However, it lacks the Google Play Store by default. You only get the Amazon App Store, which might make it tricky to download certain Android apps.

It can be found in India at roughly ₹12,000 or more.

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Lenovo brings a massive 12.7-inch 3K display with a super-fast 144Hz refresh rate. The MediaTek Dimensity 8300 chipset runs much faster than other Android tablets in this segment. The large screen gives you excellent space for multitasking, preparing presentations, and taking notes. You can attach a keyboard pack and the Tab Pen Plus to turn this into a complete study device. Four JBL speakers make video calls sound crystal clear. The device feels slightly heavy to hold because it is larger than standard 11-inch models.

Price starts at around ₹31,998 in India for the 8GB RAM and 128GB storage version with a bundled pen.

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Xiaomi 18 Pro Max Launch Details REVEALED! Display, Features And Expected Specs

Gargi Chaudhry — Mon, 21 Sep 2026 14:34:06 +0530

Xiaomi 18 Pro series will be launched in China later this week as the tech giant's latest flagship handset lineup, the company announced. Two models are likely to be in the lineup. The company has started to tease the design, colour choices, specs, and features, but not the launch date. You will be able to buy the Xiaomi 18 Pro line in at least three colours, with a new blue colour being added. Also, the Xiaomi 18 Pro lineup will have a hardware-based privacy display feature that works like Samsung's Privacy Display feature on the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra.

Xiaomi 18 Pro Series Launch On September 23

The Xiaomi 18 Pro series will launch in China on September 23 at 7:00 pm local time (4:30 pm IST), according to a post made by the smartphone manufacturer on Weibo. This indicates that the launch is just two days away. As previously stated, two models—the Xiaomi 18 Pro and the Xiaomi 18 Pro Max—are anticipated to be part of the portfolio. At least three colour options—Black, Starry River Blue, and White—are hinted at for the debut of both devices.

The Xiaomi 18 Pro series shares design characteristics with its predecessor. It has been established that the lineup will have the same secondary display on the rear as it did the previous year. On the other hand, Xiaomi is referring to the new lineup's back display as "Versatile Back Screen" (translated from Chinese), which will provide an inventive set of features. The phone will also have a "micro-arc quad-curved" aluminium mid-frame on the sides and bezels surrounding the touchscreen on the front that are 0.99 mm thick.

After Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra, now Xiaomi 18 Pro Series will also come with hardware-level privacy display. You can also customise the privacy display according to apps, customised notification privacy, split-screen privacy, and custom lock screen privacy.Check out its working… pic.twitter.com/dLBx7Rjek5

— Abhishek Yadav (@yabhishekhd) September 21, 2026

In addition, the tech behemoth has disclosed the Xiaomi 18 Pro series' display specifications. The Xiaomi 18 Pro will include a flat AMOLED display with an RGB lossless array, next-generation M11 luminescent material, new green light-emitting materials, a 20% increase in luminous efficiency, and a maximum brightness of 4,000 nits. Additionally, according to Xiaomi, the display panel would provide "clarity comparable" to a 2K resolution display while using the same amount of power as a 1.5K resolution screen.

The new hardware-level privacy display feature, which will function similarly to Samsung's Privacy Display technology, will also be introduced this week with the Xiaomi 18 Pro series.

Xiaomi 18 Pro Coming To India?

The expected launch schedule for the Xiaomi 18 series in India has also been revealed by tipster Debayan Roy (@Gadgetsdata). According to the leaker, the Xiaomi 18 series will be released in the nation in December of this year. It is important to note that the Pro models were not introduced by the corporation in India last year. Moreover, Xiaomi has yet to confirm this launch timeline. Hence, one should take it with a pinch of salt.

WATCH: Shop Staff Use a Simple Magnet to Foil Fake iPhone 18 Pro Scam in Tokyo, Video Goes Viral

Hrishikesh Damodar — Tue, 22 Sep 2026 03:14:42 +0530

In a stunning display of retail vigilance, a second-hand smartphone shop in Tokyo, Japan, has apparently narrowly averted a high-stakes fraud attempt involving counterfeit packaging of the newly launched iPhone 18 Pro.

In a video that went viral on social media, especially X (formerly Twitter), a shop staff member was seen using a magnetic viewing sheet to check the MagSafe magnetic ring through the sealed box, which was opened and reportedly found filler materials instead of an iPhone, exposing an alleged scam.

Since the newly launched iPhones, including the 18 Pro, 18 Pro Max, and the highly anticipated foldable Duo lineup, hit store shelves amid massive global demand, the secondary market and retail stores across the world have become prime targets for sophisticated fraudsters, attempting to palm off empty boxes or heavy filler materials as pristine devices.

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How Did Shop Staff Find Out the Fake iPhone 18 Pro?

A shop in Japan’s Tokyo, which reportedly operates in the Shin-Okubo district and specialises in buying second-hand mobile phones. However, a shop staff member came across an unexpected challenge when a Vietnamese man arrived with several sealed iPhone 18 Pro boxes, prompting the employees to verify those boxes.

The shop staff member used a simple physics trick by placing a magnetic viewing sheet over the sealed box to check for the magnetic pattern produced by the MagSafe system. This trick helped him expose the counterfeit packaging instantly.

In a viral video, one of the shop employees was seen scanning the iPhone 18 Pro box with the magnetic viewing sheet, only to find that the expected circular MagSafe pattern did not appear on the sheet, raising immediate suspicion about the package. When he opened the package, the staff member reportedly discovered filler material instead of an iPhone 18 Pro.

TIL phone retailers can spot fake “brand new unopened” iPhone 18s by running a piece of plastic over the box.Plastic is transparent with tiny nickel flakes floating in oil. The flakes attracted to and can “show” magnetic shapes (eg. Magsafe ring).In the video below, a… pic.twitter.com/Nc5zNS7Hrl

— Trung Phan (@TrungTPhan) September 21, 2026

The shop staff members cannot remove the seal of the iPhone boxes as it would lose the item's coveted ‘brand-new, unopened’ status, which is vital for second-hand resale value. This innovative way of identifying counterfeit packaging allowed the staff to verify the contents without breaking the seal, potentially saving the shop from purchasing a fake product.

Since the incident highlights how simple physical checks can help second-hand retailers detect suspicious packaging, the magnetic-sheet method could serve as a useful precaution when verifying sealed smartphones before purchase.

The Hong Kong Credit Card Fraud Wave

Not only Japan, but the shops in Hong Kong have also reportedly faced a different iPhone-related fraud wave, with more than 700 people reporting unauthorised credit-card transactions linked to iPhone 18 pre-orders.

The incident came to light on September 13 when Hong Kong Police received more than 700 reports from people who suspected their credit cards had been used fraudulently to purchase iPhone 18 series handsets online. Reportedly, transactions totalled HK$25 million (US$ 3.18 million), with the largest single case involving about HK$114,000.

According to the Hong Kong Police, the fraudulent orders were placed using stolen credit card details, with the victims discovering unauthorised charges after receiving notifications from their banks. Police have launched a subsequent investigation into online fraud. Meanwhile, Apple is reportedly reviewing the affected orders.

Therefore, as high-stakes tech releases like iPhones continue to fuel global criminal ingenuity, both physical retail stores and digital platforms must remain intensely vigilant against evolving electronic scams.

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Jio Users, Big Offer! Get Canva Pro Worth Rs 4,000 Free for 1 Year

Richa Barua — Wed, 16 Sep 2026 14:15:00 +0530

Jio has a new bumper offer for its users! You can get a free Canva Pro or Pro Lite subscription, worth up to ₹4,000, for 12 months. Wondering how to claim it on the MyJio app and who's eligible? We've got all the details.Jio has launched a new digital offer for its customers. Teaming up with Canva, Jio is giving eligible users a free Canva Pro or Canva Pro Lite subscription for up to 12 months. The company says this offer is worth up to ₹4,000. But who gets what? The offer isn't the same for everyone; it depends on your recharge plan. Eligible customers on the ₹399 Jio plan will get Canva Pro. Meanwhile, users on the ₹349 plan and some eligible 2GB/day data plans above ₹349 will get Canva Pro Lite. So, it's important to first check which plan is active on your Jio number.Eligible customers don't need to pay anything extra for this Canva subscription. You can activate this offer, which is based on your Jio plan, right from the MyJio app. However, not all Jio recharges will get you Canva Pro. Your eligibility and the Canva version you get depend on your specific plan. Here's how to claim it: 1. Open the MyJio app on your phone. 2. Log in with your Jio number. 3. Look for the Canva Offer/Banner and click it. 4. Select the offer and check the details. 5. You might need to verify your Jio number with an OTP. 6. Then, log in to your Canva account or create a new one. 7. Activate your free Canva Pro or Pro Lite subscription. If you don't see the Canva banner, it's best to first check if your current plan is eligible for this offer.Canva Pro lets you use more premium features compared to the regular free version. This includes premium templates, photos, videos, fonts, and tools like Background Remover and Magic Eraser. Canva Pro also gives you access to AI-powered creative tools, a Content Planner, and higher AI usage limits. So, what about Canva Pro Lite? It also offers many premium design features like templates, photos, videos, fonts, and tools like Background Remover and Magic Eraser. The main difference between Pro and Pro Lite is in some features and usage limits. For instance, some AI features, the Content Planner, and higher usage limits available in the Pro version won't be fully available in the Lite version.This offer can be a big deal for people who use Canva regularly. It's especially useful for social media content creators, students, small business owners, freelancers, and anyone who creates presentations, posters, or marketing designs. One important thing to remember: Don't rush to recharge with a new Jio plan just by seeing the 'Free Canva Pro worth ₹4,000' headline. First, check if the offer is actually showing up for you in the MyJio app. Current information suggests the ₹399 plan gets Canva Pro, while the ₹349 and some eligible 2GB/day plans get Canva Pro Lite. If Jio changes these details, you should consider the information shown in the MyJio app as the final word. In short: Eligible Jio customers can claim the Canva Pro or Pro Lite offer through the MyJio app starting from 16 September 2026. The subscription can be free for up to 12 months and is valued at up to ₹4,000.

Meta Muse AI Agent REVEALED: New Personal Assistant Can Plan, Browse and Act on Your Behalf

Zetan Kumari — Thu, 24 Sep 2026 12:19:51 +0530

Meta just announced a brand new AI gadget. They call this tiny device Muse Charm. It features a two-inch touch screen and packs 5G connectivity. The gadget is actually smaller than a standard wireless earbud case. Meta plans to hit the market this December, though they haven't revealed the price tag yet. This launch comes right when OpenAI is gearing up to drop its own AI hardware. Meta Muse steps away from traditional chatbots that just answer your questions. Instead, Meta has built it as a practical, agentic AI system that actually gets things done for you.

The system works through a very natural chat interface. It remembers your personal details and preferences easily. You can ask it to book appointments or manage your expenses, and it will handle these lengthy tasks independently without needing your constant supervision. Meta has added tough safety measures to Muse to tackle digital security and privacy worries. The company stores every user's data in a dedicated virtual computer on the cloud. Meta also promises they will never use your chat data for advertising. They even plan to roll out full end-to-end encryption in the near future.

Muse will not make major moves behind your back. The system is hardwired to ask for your direct permission before it sends out emails or processes any financial transactions. You just need to give the command, and Muse can open a browser, fill out forms, book your travel tickets, and handle necessary negotiations all by itself. If a task takes a long time, you can simply close the app. The AI will keep working in the background. It will only ping you to come back when it needs your final nod for crucial steps like making a payment or hitting send on an email.

Tata New Aeris: Why This New Budget Car Is Making Waves In Market

Shreya Tinkhede — Sat, 26 Sep 2026 17:49:44 +0530

Delhi: Tata Motors has finally dropped its new car in the market. The company has announced the Tata New Aeris. They have launched this vehicle as a compact sedan. This car is trending everywhere right now. The pricing is totally pocket-friendly for the common man.

What is the price of this car?

The petrol variant price starts from Rs 5.29 lakh. The iCNG variant price starts from Rs 6.29 lakh. This car is making a huge buzz in the market right now. The company has shared these as ex-showroom Delhi prices. Buyers can also grab the top model in this specific segment.

Know the car details

Let us check out the main details of this car. The brand has loaded this vehicle with all the advanced features. Buyers will get a completely upgraded modern design. The car brings fresh updates for your daily driving experience. The makers have taken special care to give customers a proper luxury feel on the road.

Best Phones Under Rs 20,000: 6 Top Picks, Performance to Battery - 4 Things to Check Before You Buy

Zetan Kumari — Fri, 18 Sep 2026 10:14:15 +0530

You usually check the camera, battery, and processor when buying a new phone. But water and dust protection is just as important. We all use our phones everywhere, and accidental water spills are pretty much guaranteed, especially during the monsoon season.

You must check the IP rating of a phone before buying it. This rating tells you exactly how much protection the device offers against dust and water. IP68 and IP69 ratings are currently trending in the market.

Samsung Galaxy A33 5G and Galaxy A34 5G

You can look at the Samsung Galaxy A33 5G and Galaxy A34 5G if you want an IP67 rating. The Galaxy A33 5G currently costs between 19,980 rupees and 33,990 rupees in India. The Samsung Galaxy A34 5G price starts at 20,790 rupees. The Galaxy A34 5G gives you an IP67 rating, a great camera, and a long-lasting software support system.

Moto G96 5G

The Moto G96 5G price ranges from 18,999 rupees to 21,099 rupees.
The brand decides the exact price based on the storage variant.
The Moto G96 5G stands out as the best choice on this list.
The screen offers a 144Hz refresh rate and 1600 nits peak brightness.
The device features a 6.67-inch curved P-OLED display.
A Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 processor powers the phone.
The phone packs 8GB RAM and comes in 128GB or 256GB storage options.
The camera setup includes a 50MP main lens and an 8MP ultra-wide lens.
You get a 32MP front camera and a massive 5,500mAh battery.
The phone importantly comes with a solid IP68 rating.

Oppo A6c

The OPPO A6c smartphone features an IP64 rating. The company claims this rating protects the phone against water and dust during normal daily use. The 4GB RAM and 64GB storage variant currently costs around 16,999 rupees. This phone packs a 6.75-inch 120Hz display, a Snapdragon 685 processor, and a 6,500mAh battery.

Samsung Galaxy A06 5G

The Samsung Galaxy A06 5G comes with an IP54 rating. This rating protects the device against basic water and dust exposure, but you cannot submerge it in water. The phone costs 17,499 rupees. The device also offers full 5G connectivity.

Redmi A7 Pro 5G

The Redmi A7 Pro 5G smartphone carries an IP52 rating. This basic rating protects the phone against dust and minor water splashes. The base variant price starts at 14,499 rupees. This phone features a large 6.9-inch 120Hz display.

POCO C85 5G

The POCO C85 5G smartphone also offers an IP rating for dust and water resistance. The 128GB storage variant currently starts at around 16,999 rupees. The top 8GB RAM and 128GB storage model goes up to 17,999 rupees. This phone sports a 6.9-inch 120Hz HD+ display and a 50MP rear camera.