Google unreviled its Pixel 9 series at "Made by Google". The series compromises 4 phones - Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 XL, and Pixel 9 Flod. Along with this launch, the event has thrown its hat into the increasingly competitive AI image generation ring with the announcement of Pixel Studio. This new app, designed to be a core component of the Pixel 9 series, aims to rival Apple's Image Playground in creating stunning visuals through AI.

Pixel Studio leverages Google's advanced Imagen 3 model to transform text prompts into intricate images. Users can experiment with different styles, from cinematic to anime, and the app offers suggestions based on their prompts. But the magic doesn't stop there.

One of Pixel Studio's standout features is its on-device AI editing capabilities. Users can effortlessly remove unwanted objects from images, reposition elements, or make other modifications directly on their Pixel 9 device. This offline functionality is a significant advantage over cloud-based alternatives, providing users greater privacy and speed.

While Pixel Studio is undoubtedly impressive, it's essential to note that it utilizes a smaller version of Imagen 3 for on-device processing. This might result in limitations compared to the full-fledged model, especially in achieving hyper-realistic images. However, the app's capabilities will likely be more than sufficient for most users.

The launch of Pixel Studio marks a significant step forward in Google's AI strategy and sets the stage for an exciting competition with Apple's Image Playground. As both companies continue to refine their offerings, users stand to benefit from increasingly sophisticated and accessible AI image-generation tools.

Meta-owned instant messaging platform - WhatsApp has introduced a bunch of new features and updates to enhance the user experience and make the conversation more fun. In the latest update, the messaging app has added new camera effects, selfie stickers, the option to share sticker packs, and faster reactions. Users will get 30 backgrounds, filters and effects options to choose from during the chat. Meta has announced the updates in its latest blog post. Read out all details here.

Taking to its blog post Meta said, “We continuously strive to enhance the fun and usability of WhatsApp, and we’re thrilled to start the new year with fresh features and design improvements to enrich your experience.” Here are all the features that users will get as a part of the latest WhatsApp update.

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WhatsApp latest update: New features

1. Camera effects: At present, users can select from 30 backgrounds, filters, and effects while capturing and sharing a video or image in their messages to enhance the visuals.

2. Selfie stickers: One can now also convert selfies into stickers. To begin, press the create sticker icon and you’ll find the camera option to capture a selfie and make your sticker. This option is currently available on Android and will be released on iOS shortly.

3. Share a sticker collection: Have you found a sticker pack that you think a friend would enjoy? You can now share them straight in your conversations.

4. Faster responses: You can now double-tap a message to react and easily browse your frequently used reactions.

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In addition to these, the WhatsApp has also been recently spotted developing a new feature for its Web version that will enable users to conduct a web search on shared images. The features, known as Search on Web, will reportedly allow users to perform a reverse image search through Google rapidly, all within the messaging platform. This functionality is likely to reduce the dissemination of false information and safeguarding users from being deceived by online frauds. Notably, the company started the testing this feature on WhatsApp for Android in November, last year.

India Post Phishing Scam Targets iPhone Users: What You Need to Know

Cybercriminals are targeting iPhone users in India with a phishing campaign disguised as official India Post communications. The scam, identified by FortiGuard Labs, tricks victims into sharing sensitive personal and financial information under the pretense of delivering a package. This large-scale operation is linked to the China-based threat group Smishing Triad, which has conducted similar attacks worldwide.

How the Scam Operates

The attack begins with fraudulent iMessages sent to Apple ID accounts, claiming that a package is awaiting delivery at an India Post warehouse. Victims are directed to a fake India Post website where they are asked to provide personal details and credit card information for a supposed redelivery fee.

Investigations reveal that over 470 phishing domains impersonating India Post have been registered since January 2024, with nearly 300 of these domains tied to a Chinese registrar. The scam uses these fake domains to mirror the real India Post website, making it harder for users to differentiate between authentic and fraudulent communications.

This campaign, part of a growing trend in "smishing" attacks, highlights the scammers' focus on exploiting trusted brands like India Post to deceive users. The attackers also use urgency tactics, such as claiming victims must act within 24 hours, to lower vigilance and prompt hasty actions.

Protecting Yourself Against Smishing

iPhone users are advised to remain cautious when receiving unexpected messages or notifications, especially those requesting personal or financial information. To safeguard yourself:

• Avoid clicking on links in suspicious messages, even if they seem urgent or authentic.
• Manually visit official websites by typing the URL instead of using shared links.
• Enable multi-factor authentication on your Apple ID and other accounts to add an extra layer of security.
• Regularly update your devices and security software to defend against vulnerabilities.
• If you suspect a message is fraudulent, report it to the appropriate authorities and delete it immediately.

By staying vigilant and following these practices, users can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to such phishing scams.

Nothing is back in the news, albeit in a non-official capacity this week, where we have some exciting updates about the Nothing Phone 3 launch timeline. The company could make its big reveal in early 2025 via a leaked internal mail from Nothing CEO Carl Pei, quoted by the reliable tipster Evan Blass, aka EvLeaks on X.

The leak, which surfaced online, purportedly shows an internal email from Nothing CEO Carl Pei, hinting at an imminent launch timeline. While not explicitly stating a release date, the email emphasises the importance of a swift product cycle and a focus on early market entry.

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"We need to move faster," the alleged email excerpt reads. "The market waits for no one. We must ensure the Phone (3) reaches consumers as quickly as possible." This message suggests that Nothing aims for a rapid turnaround and will likely capitalise on the early part of the year.

The Nothing Phone 2, with its distinctive Glyph interface and transparent design, garnered significant attention. The Phone 3 is expected to build upon this foundation, featuring upgraded hardware, refined software, and innovative design elements.

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Rumours suggest that the Phone 3 might incorporate Qualcomm's latest Snapdragon processor, offering improved performance and efficiency. Upgrades to the camera system, including improved sensors and AI-powered features, are also highly anticipated.

While this leak should be taken with a grain of salt until official confirmation from Nothing, it adds fuel to the speculation surrounding the Phone 3. Tech enthusiasts eagerly await further announcements from Nothing regarding its next flagship smartphone's launch date, pricing, and specifications.