Tech

Samsung Galaxy XR could be available in more global markets next year. The company is reportedly planning to launch the device in Germany, France, Canada, and the UK in 2026. The company's first extended reality (XR) headset could be launched in more regions based on production capacity and the growth of XR apps and experiences.

Students who are looking for a new laptop or to upgrade their current device can check out the list of the best laptops under Rs. 50,000, which includes Asus Vivobook 14, Moto Book 60, Infinix Inbook Air Pro+, Acer Chromebook Plus 15, and Honor MagicBook X16 (2024). These laptops are capable of performing most tasks on a budget. The Asus Vivobook 14 (X1407QA), which features a 14-inch full-HD+ (1,920×1,200 pixels) IPS screen with a 16:10 aspect ratio and a 60Hz refresh rate, is powered by Qualcomm’s octa core Snapdragon X (X1-26-100) processor.

WhatsApp is said to be developing a new lockdown-style mode to enhance security for users at risk of targeted cyberattacks, according to feature tracker WABetaInfo. Spotted in the latest WhatsApp beta for Android 2.25.33.4 update on the Google Play Store, the feature will reportedly let users apply stricter privacy settings with one toggle. It includes protections like IP address masking during calls, blocking media from unknown senders, disabling link previews, and enabling two-step verification, offering stronger, simplified protection for high-risk users.

A new leak suggests Qualcomm’s upcoming Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 chipset will debut in two versions, including a standard model and a Pro variant. Both will use TSMC’s 2nm N2P process and a 2+3+3 CPU core layout, but the Pro will feature LPDDR6 memory, a faster GPU, and enhanced AI capabilities. Expected to cost about $70 (roughly Rs. 6,200) more than the Gen 5, the Pro chip may power ultra-premium phones from Samsung, OnePlus, Xiaomi, and iQOO when it launches in 2026.