Apple has released the stable iOS 18.3 update, which includes a number of new features, UI adjustments, and bug fixes. However, the most notable features of the update is Starlink satellite network as a substitute for Apple's satellite communication. According to reports, Apple secretly teamed up with T-Mobile and Elon Musk's Starlink to offer iPhone users satellite communication through the Starlink network, which is well-known for being a satellite-based internet service. This will let iPhone users connect with their loved ones even when they are not in a network area. Here's all you need to know.

Apple in collaboration with T-Mobile and Starlink has started the trial period for activating the Starlink satellite network on specific iPhone models. It will allow iPhone 14 models running the most recent version of iOS 18 to launch SpaceX's Starlink Direct-to-Cell feature and send text messages via satellite. Users will benefit from this if they are traveling to places with poor reception or no network so they can send a quick text message to their loved ones.

In other words, the Starlink satellite network will enable qualified iPhone users to send messages to friends, family, and emergency professionals.

How to send text messages on an iPhone using the Starlink satellite network
Since the feature is still in beta testing and has not been formally released, only a small number of iPhone users can utilize it. Users of iPhones are currently required to install iOS 18.3. They will be required to navigate to their iPhone's cellular data settings after installing the latest update. A new toggle will appear there, enable that for activations will show up.

Once done, users will need to look for Starlink networks on their iPhones, just like with other satellite communications, in order to connect and send messages to emergency services or loved ones. Note that the feature is currently only accessible in the United States, but the partnered companies intend to extend both its reach and its capabilities to ensure that users are always connected to the network.

Amazon unveiled Alexa+, its generative AI-powered next-generation personal assistant, on Wednesday. Over the coming weeks, Alexa+ will be made available on devices such as the Echo Show 8, 10, 15, and 21 in the United States. Although Prime members can access it for free, the monthly cost is $19.99. Additionally, customers can download Alexa+ through the new mobile app available on the Google Play Store and Apple App Store. Read out all details about the new Amazon Alexa+ here.

Taking to his blog post, Amazon SVP of devices and services, Panos Panay noted, “Alexa+ is more conversational, smarter, and personalized—and she helps you get things done. She keeps you entertained, helps you learn, keeps you organized, summarizes complex topics, and can converse about virtually anything. Alexa+ can manage and protect your home, make reservations, and help you track, discover, and enjoy new artists." The tech giant also added that the new Alexa+ can help you search for, find, or buy virtually any item online and make useful suggestions based on your interests. Alexa+ can do all of this and more—all you have to do is ask.

Alexa+ features
The new Alexa+ is reportedly more expansive and natural than Alexa, with the capacity to comprehend complex concepts, idioms, and half-formed thoughts. Speaking with Alexa+ will be like conversing with a perceptive friend, according to Amazon.

Alexa+ can perform complex tasks by navigating the Internet on its own with the help of agentic capabilities and large language models (LLMs) that are available on Amazon Bedrock. It's also claimed that Alexa+ remembers personal information about users to provide a tailored experience.

The new Alexa+ can be activated by simply saying, "Alexa," and it supports natural, full-fledged back-and-forth conversations. Because of Amazon's partnerships with more than 200 news outlets, Alexa+ is also able to provide real-time information and news. It can provide you with news summaries, assist you in remembering significant dates like birthdays and anniversaries, and even help you remember important details from documents.

Additionally, Fire TV will now be able to track content from your favorite artists and jump directly to your favorite scene thanks to Alexa+'s integration.

Vivo is gearing up to launch the Vivo T4x 5G, and the handset is expected to launch soon. Although Vivo has not yet revealed any official launch date, the device launch seems imminent, according to leaks and rumours. They have already hinted at key specifications and features. The device is expected to improve performance, battery life, and camera capabilities.

Vivo T4x 5G Design

The company teased the Vivo T4x 5G design on an X post. The image shows the handset's rear panel with a rectangular camera module with rounded edges. The camera island houses two sensors and a squircle Dynamic Light feature. No other details about the smartphone have been confirmed yet.

Also Read: CMF Phone 2 Spotted on BIS: Expected Price, Specs, and Launch in India

Vivo T4x 5G: Price and Availbility

The upcoming Vivo T4x 5G will likely be priced under Rs 15,000 if we consider last year’s Vivo T3x. With the official launch expected soon, more details regarding its display, charging capabilities, and other features should emerge in the coming days.

Vivo T4x 5G India Launch: All We Know

Vivo T4x 5G will have a 6.72-inch FHD+ IPS LCD screen, supporting a 120Hz refresh rate to give smooth scrolling and a great visual experience. The handset will get a MediaTek Dimensity 7300 processor, which is known for its high performance and power efficiency, making it perfect for gaming and multitasking experiences.

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For photography enthusiasts, Vivo T4x 5G will have a 50MP primary camera and a 2MP depth camera. It has an 8MP front camera for selfies and video calling. The phone will have a 6500mAh battery, giving a very long backup. With this, 44W fast charging support will be available, charging the battery quickly.

Also, Vivo T4x 5G will have LPDDR4X RAM and UFS 2.2 storage, making the phone's performance fast and smooth.

Nothing’s sub-brand CMF is gearing up to launch a new smartphone in India soon. While the Nothing Phone 3a is expected to debut in March 2025, a new leak suggests that CMF Phone 2 might also be on the way. The smartphone has been spotted on the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) database, confirming its imminent launch in India.

CMF Phone 2: Launch Expected Soon

The listing of CMF Phone 2 on BIS indicates that nothing is planned to launch in India soon. The handset has been spotted with the model number A001, hinting at an upcoming release.

CMF Phone 1 was introduced last year as its first smartphone under the CMF sub-brand. With the CMF Phone 2, the company aims to bring another feature-packed device to the mid-range smartphone segment.

Also Read: Best Gaming Phones Under 25,000 from OnePlus, Nothing, and More

CMF Phone 2: Expected Price

Last year, CMF Phone 1 launched at Rs 15,999 for the 6GB RAM and 128GB storage variant and priced at Rs 18,000 for the 8GB RAM and 128GB storage variant.

So, CMF Phone 2 is expected to be priced in a similar range, making it an affordable option for buyers.

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CMF Phone 2: Expected Specifications

Earlier leaks suggest the CMF Phone 2 will run on Qualcomm Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 SoC. However, we are unsure if it would carry the same chip as the pricier Nothing Phone (3a). Let’s see. If true, it may get a slightly faster GPU and a newer CPU architecture than the CMF Phone 1’s Dimensity 7300 chipset.

Meanwhile, CMF designer Lucy Birley, in a YouTube video conversation, revealed that the next Nothing phone could come out in April, and the internet started speculating that the phone in question could be CMF Phone 2. The video also drops clues suggesting the phone in question could come in blue. The predecessor also came in a blue shade.