Category: Technology

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Spotify introduces playlist folders on mobile

Spotify has unveiled a fresh set of features designed to make playlist management easier for millions of users worldwide. The update introduces mobile playlist folders, bulk song editing and several other improvements aimed at streamlining the listening experience.

The headline feature is playlist folders, which enable users to organise multiple playlists under a single category. This means listeners can now create folders for workout music, travel songs, favourite artists or any other theme, making large music libraries easier to manage.

The company has also added bulk editing capabilities. Instead of handling tracks one at a time, users can select multiple songs and perform actions such as moving, removing or reorganising them together. Spotify says the feature is intended to save time and reduce the effort involved in maintaining playlists.

For users with extensive music collections, these additions address long-standing requests for better organisational tools. Playlist folders have been among the most sought-after features from Spotify’s community, particularly among subscribers who create dozens of playlists.

The update includes improvements to playlist controls and navigation, allowing users to customise their libraries more efficiently. According to Spotify, the goal is to make the platform easier to use while giving listeners greater flexibility over how they arrange their content.

The changes arrive as music streaming services increasingly focus on user experience and personalisation. With more listeners creating customised playlists, effective organisation tools have become an important part of the streaming experience.

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YouTube launches AI tools for podcast listeners

YouTube has rolled out new AI-powered features aimed at improving the podcast listening experience on its platform.

The update introduces smarter podcast recommendations, automatic playback speed adjustment, and a new “On-the-Go Mode” for users who listen while travelling or multitasking.

According to YouTube, the AI recommendation system will suggest podcasts and episodes based on users’ interests, watch history, and listening habits. The company says the feature is designed to help users discover new creators and content more easily.

One of the key additions is the “Auto Speed” feature, which automatically changes playback speed depending on how fast a speaker is talking. This is expected to make listening more comfortable and reduce the need for manual speed adjustments.

YouTube has also added “On-the-Go Mode,” a feature built for users who listen to podcasts during daily activities such as driving, walking, or exercising. The mode offers simpler controls and a cleaner interface for easier access while moving.

The company’s latest move highlights its growing focus on podcasts and digital audio content. YouTube has become a major platform for podcast consumption in recent years, especially for video podcasts and creator-led shows.

The platform is competing closely with streaming services like Spotify and Apple Podcasts, both of which are also investing heavily in AI-based recommendations and personalised audio experiences.

Technology experts say AI tools are becoming an important part of content platforms as companies try to improve user engagement and increase listening time. Personalised recommendations can help users find content faster while giving creators better visibility.

YouTube said the new features will be introduced gradually and may not be available to all users immediately.

Podcast creators are expected to benefit from the AI recommendation tool, which could help smaller channels reach larger audiences through personalised suggestions.

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Jio launches ₹200 OTT pack with 15 streaming apps

Reliance Jio has launched a new entertainment-focused prepaid plan priced at ₹200, offering access to multiple OTT platforms, live TV channels and mobile data benefits in a single package.

The telecom company said the new OTT pack includes subscriptions to 15 streaming platforms along with access to more than 1,000 live TV channels. The plan is aimed at users looking for affordable digital entertainment options without paying separately for multiple streaming services.

According to reports, the ₹200 plan also includes 30GB of high-speed data and unlimited 5G access for eligible users. Customers can stream movies, web series, sports and live television through the bundled services available under the package.

Some of the OTT platforms included in the plan are reportedly available through JioTV and JioCinema integration. The company hopes the move will attract more prepaid customers and strengthen its position in India’s growing digital entertainment market.

Telecom companies have increasingly started bundling OTT subscriptions with recharge plans as competition in the streaming industry continues to rise. Such plans are becoming popular among users seeking low-cost access to premium entertainment content.

Also Read: YouTube boosts AI content transparency

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YouTube boosts AI content transparency

YouTube is strengthening its fight against misleading AI-generated content by launching an automatic labelling system for videos created or heavily altered using artificial intelligence tools.

The platform said the new feature will detect realistic AI-generated content independently, even if uploaders do not mention AI usage while publishing videos. The labels are expected to appear mainly on content that may confuse viewers or misrepresent real events and personalities.

The update targets synthetic media such as deepfakes, cloned voices, digitally altered speeches and realistic AI-generated footage. YouTube clarified that basic editing functions and standard creator tools will not be affected under the policy.

The company previously required creators to self-disclose AI-generated content, but rising concerns around misinformation and fake online media have pushed the platform towards automated enforcement.

Technology experts say the move reflects increasing pressure on major digital platforms to address the risks associated with generative AI. Over the past year, AI-generated videos have become more sophisticated, making it harder for users to distinguish between authentic and manipulated content.

YouTube said the feature is intended to improve transparency while helping viewers better understand the nature of the content they consume. The company added that its detection systems will continue evolving as AI tools become more advanced.

Although YouTube has not shared specific technical details, reports suggest the platform will rely on machine learning models trained to identify patterns commonly found in synthetic media.

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iPhone 18 Pro may get satellite upgrade

Apple may be preparing a major technology upgrade for its future iPhone lineup, with reports suggesting the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max could receive improved satellite connectivity alongside several hardware enhancements.

The reported upgrade could expand the role of satellite communication beyond its current use. At present, satellite technology in iPhones mainly helps users access emergency services in areas where regular mobile networks are unavailable. The next generation of Pro models could reportedly bring stronger and more advanced capabilities, potentially improving communication in remote regions.

The development comes as smartphone companies increasingly focus on connectivity and AI-driven features to differentiate premium devices. Satellite technology, once considered a niche feature, is becoming a bigger area of competition in the smartphone market.

Apart from connectivity changes, reports also indicate Apple may introduce upgrades in performance, camera systems and display technology. Improved battery efficiency and design refinements are also expected to be part of the company’s plans for future flagship devices.

Although Apple has not officially confirmed details of future iPhone models, early reports have generated strong interest among technology enthusiasts. Final specifications could still change before launch.

The expected changes suggest Apple may continue focusing on improving practical features while strengthening the overall user experience in its premium smartphone range.

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Google rolls out Gemini 3.5 flash

Google has introduced a new artificial intelligence model called Gemini 3.5 Flash, along with upgraded AI-powered search tools, as part of its latest technology announcements.

The company said Gemini 3.5 Flash is built to be faster and more efficient, offering quick responses while using lower computing power. It is designed for tasks like answering questions, generating content, coding help and real-time assistance.

Google also unveiled new AI search agent tools that aim to make search more interactive. Instead of just showing links, the tools are designed to provide direct answers and help users complete tasks using AI.

The updates are part of Google’s efforts to make AI more practical and widely accessible. The company is focusing on improving both performance and cost efficiency as competition in the AI sector continues to grow.

With Gemini already being integrated across several Google products, the new version is expected to strengthen its AI ecosystem and expand use cases for both individuals and businesses.

Industry experts say the emphasis on faster and cheaper AI could help drive wider adoption of generative AI tools, especially in everyday digital tasks.

The announcement reflects Google’s continued push to lead in the global AI market through improved models and smarter search technology.

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Apple watchOS 27 to improve fitness tracking accuracy

Apple is preparing a software upgrade for the Apple Watch that could significantly improve heart rate tracking accuracy with the upcoming watchOS 27 update. The focus of the update is expected to be better health monitoring rather than introducing major new features or design changes.

Reports suggest Apple is working on improving the way the Apple Watch reads and interprets heart rate signals. While current models already provide features like continuous heart rate monitoring, ECG readings, workout tracking, and alerts for abnormal readings, users sometimes experience inconsistent data during fast-paced movement or high-intensity exercise. The new update aims to reduce such errors.

The key improvement is expected to come from enhanced algorithms that process heart rate data more intelligently. These improvements would allow the watch to filter out noise caused by motion and physical strain, resulting in more stable and reliable readings. This is particularly useful for athletes, runners, and users engaged in interval training or gym workouts.

Better heart rate accuracy could also improve other health-related functions of the Apple Watch. These include calorie estimation, workout intensity tracking, recovery time suggestions, and overall fitness analysis. As wearable devices become more central to personal health monitoring, even incremental improvements in accuracy are considered important.

The Apple Watch has evolved into a major health-focused device, offering features such as fall detection, irregular heart rhythm alerts, and oxygen monitoring in newer models. These tools have positioned it as both a smartwatch and a wellness tracker.

While Apple has not officially confirmed the details, watchOS updates are typically announced during its annual developer conference. More details are expected in the coming months, followed by a wider release later in the year.

watchOS 27 appears to be more of a refinement update rather than a feature-heavy release. Instead of introducing major new tools, Apple seems to be focusing on improving the performance of existing health and fitness features. This approach aligns with Apple’s broader strategy of strengthening its health ecosystem through incremental upgrades.

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Meta introduces Forum app for Facebook Groups

Meta has launched a new app called Forum aimed at improving how users participate in Facebook Groups. The app provides a dedicated space for community discussions outside the main Facebook interface.

The Forum app is designed to organise group content more efficiently, making conversations easier to track and engage with. It allows users to view group posts and discussions in a simplified format without relying on the main Facebook feed.

The move reflects Meta’s broader effort to promote community-based interaction across its platforms. Facebook Groups continue to play a major role in user engagement, covering a wide range of topics and interests globally.

By separating group activity into a standalone app, Meta aims to reduce feed clutter and offer a more streamlined experience for active group members. The company is also expected to test additional features to improve moderation and content discovery.

Details about global availability and full feature rollout have not yet been announced.

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Google introduces Gemini for science

Google has introduced Gemini for Science, a new artificial intelligence initiative aimed at helping scientists and researchers handle complex research work more efficiently. The company said the tools are designed to support researchers in analysing information, identifying patterns and assisting with scientific discoveries across different areas of study.

Research today often involves handling huge amounts of data, studies and technical information. Google said Gemini for Science is intended to reduce the time spent on repetitive and data-heavy tasks so researchers can focus more on experiments and innovation.

The AI system can assist in reviewing scientific papers, organising large datasets and helping researchers identify possible connections and insights that might otherwise take much longer to find. The technology is expected to support work in areas such as healthcare, biology, chemistry and other scientific fields.

Google said the goal is not to replace scientists but to create a tool that works alongside them, helping improve productivity and speed up the research process. Experts believe AI-powered research tools could become increasingly important as scientific work becomes more data-driven.

The launch reflects the growing role of artificial intelligence beyond consumer technology, with companies increasingly building specialised AI tools for research and industry applications.

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Apple blocks $2.2 bn app store fraud in 2025

Apple has reported that it prevented more than $2.2 billion worth of fraudulent transactions on its App Store in 2025, as it continues tightening security across its global digital marketplace.

The company said the figure reflects scams and suspicious activity blocked before users or developers could be impacted. These include fake apps, fraudulent payment attempts, impersonation schemes, and misleading subscription practices.

Apple credited its mix of automated detection systems and human review teams for catching much of the activity early. Every app submitted to the App Store is reviewed before it goes live, and the company said this process is a key barrier against fraud.

Alongside app screening, Apple said it also removed thousands of developer accounts linked to suspicious behaviour. These accounts were often found distributing deceptive apps or trying to bypass App Store rules.

The company noted that fraud attempts are constantly evolving, with scammers regularly changing tactics to avoid detection. As a result, Apple said it continuously updates its security tools and policies to stay ahead of new threats.

With millions of apps and billions of downloads globally, the App Store remains one of the world’s largest digital marketplaces. Apple said maintaining user trust is essential, especially as more people rely on apps for payments, shopping, entertainment, and subscriptions.

The company also highlighted its broader investment in privacy and payment security systems designed to protect users during transactions. According to Apple, these safeguards help reduce risks linked to online financial fraud.

While Apple did not break down the numbers by region, it said its anti-fraud systems operate across all markets where the App Store is available.

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