Blog

  • Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X2 Powers New Microsoft Surface PCs and Expands to Googlebook and Linux

    Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X2 Powers New Microsoft Surface PCs and Expands to Googlebook and Linux

    Qualcomm is expanding its Snapdragon X platform beyond the initial Windows-on-Arm push, bringing the technology into new Microsoft Surface devices, Google’s emerging Googlebook category, and a wider range of PC form factors.

    Announcements at Snapdragon Summit 2026 reveal Qualcomm’s strategy to establish its Oryon-based platform across different operating systems and device segments. Microsoft is introducing new Surface hardware with Snapdragon X2 Plus, while Google has partnered with Qualcomm for Googlebook laptops powered by Snapdragon X Elite.

    New Surface Devices with Snapdragon X2 Plus

    Microsoft unveiled a 12-inch Surface Pro and 13-inch Surface Laptop, both powered by the six-core Snapdragon X2 Plus processor. The devices go on sale in select markets from October 13. According to Microsoft, the new machines deliver up to 17% faster Office performance, up to 18% better battery efficiency, more than 60% faster graphics, and up to 95% faster local AI inference than the previous generation. The Snapdragon X2 Plus features an 80-TOPS NPU designed to handle on-device AI workloads.

    Googlebook Takes Snapdragon Beyond Windows

    A significant development is Google’s adoption of Snapdragon X for its new Googlebook category. Unlike conventional Chromebooks, Googlebook laptops are positioned around Gemini-powered features, native Android applications, and closer integration with Android phones and tablets. The first Googlebook models from Dell and HP use Snapdragon X Elite rather than the newer X2 generation. The platform supports thousands of native Android applications and games, expanding Qualcomm’s reach beyond Microsoft’s ecosystem.

    X2 Elite Pushes Performance Boundaries

    At the high end, Snapdragon X2 Elite scales to 18 Oryon CPU cores, with selected versions reaching speeds up to 5GHz. Qualcomm lists up to 85 TOPS of NPU performance and as much as 228GB/s of memory bandwidth. The company is also extending Snapdragon X2 support to Linux, adding another operating system to its PC strategy alongside Windows and Googlebook.

    Qualcomm Faces Wider Competition

    The expansion comes as Qualcomm faces competition from Intel, AMD, and Apple across premium and AI-focused PCs. Snapdragon X must compete on battery life, software compatibility, graphics performance, AI workloads, and developer support. With Surface, Googlebook, and Linux now joining Windows in the Snapdragon ecosystem, Qualcomm’s PC strategy is becoming broader. The next test will be whether manufacturers and users adopt the platform across these different categories.

  • Airtel Money Eyes London IPO to Raise at Least $800 Million

    Airtel Money Eyes London IPO to Raise at Least $800 Million

    Airtel Money, the digital financial services arm of Airtel Africa, has announced plans to pursue an initial public offering (IPO) on the London Stock Exchange. The proposed listing is expected to value the African mobile money business at between $8 billion and $9 billion, positioning it as one of London’s largest IPOs in recent years.

    Airtel Money Targets $800 Million From Share Sale

    The company is aiming to raise at least $800 million through the offering. However, the IPO will consist entirely of existing shares, meaning Airtel Money itself will not receive fresh capital from the transaction. Instead, current shareholders will sell part of their holdings to public investors, with the company planning to maintain a free float of at least 10% after listing.

    The targeted valuation range is slightly below earlier market expectations. Reports had previously suggested that Airtel Money was weighing a larger offering with a valuation of around $10 billion.

    Potential Boost for London’s IPO Market

    The proposed float arrives at a time when London’s IPO market has experienced a prolonged period of subdued activity. According to Reuters, the offering could rank among the biggest London listings in recent years, giving the exchange a significant African fintech deal.

    A successful listing would also give public-market investors direct exposure to Africa’s rapidly expanding digital payments sector. Airtel Money operates across multiple African markets, offering mobile payments and a range of other digital financial products.

    Prospectus Expected in October

    Airtel Money said it expects to publish further details about the proposed offer in early October, including the indicative price range and the number of shares to be offered. Final pricing is expected in mid-October, subject to market conditions and the completion of the listing process.

    The company’s latest quarterly performance underscores the scale of its business. Revenue for the quarter ended June 2026 rose 38% year over year to $399 million.

    The listing remains subject to regulatory approvals, market conditions, and other customary requirements. Airtel Money’s London debut will ultimately depend on the completion of the IPO process and final investor demand.

  • Apple’s $250 Million Siri Settlement: iPhone Owners Could Claim Up to $95 – Eligibility & How to File

    Apple’s $250 Million Siri Settlement: iPhone Owners Could Claim Up to $95 – Eligibility & How to File

    Apple Launches Claims for $250 Million Siri Settlement

    Apple’s $250 million class-action settlement over Siri delays is now accepting claims. Eligible iPhone owners in the U.S. can file for payments estimated at $25 to $95 per device.

    Why the Settlement?

    The lawsuit alleged that Apple promoted advanced Siri features with Apple Intelligence but failed to deliver them as advertised.

    Which iPhone Models Qualify?

    The settlement covers specific iPhone models sold in the U.S. between June 10, 2024, and March 29, 2025:

    • iPhone 15 Pro
    • iPhone 15 Pro Max
    • iPhone 16e
    • iPhone 16 Plus
    • iPhone 16 Pro
    • iPhone 16 Pro Max

    Note: The purchase must meet settlement requirements, and only U.S. purchases qualify.

    How to File a Claim

    Eligible customers can submit claims via the official settlement website. You’ll need your device’s serial number (found in Settings > General > About) or alternative information like your Apple Account email and phone number. Some users may receive a claim ID and PIN by email, but it’s not required to start.

    Payment Amounts and Options

    The total settlement fund is $250 million. Expected payout is about $25 per device, but could increase to $95 if fewer claims are filed. Each eligible device requires a separate claim. Payment can be made via PayPal, Venmo, direct deposit, or paper check.

    Deadline

    Claims must be submitted by December 21, 2026. A final approval hearing is on February 24, 2027, so payments may be delayed if appealed.

  • Disney+ and Hulu Prices Rise in the US: Here’s What Subscribers Pay Now

    Disney+ and Hulu Prices Rise in the US: Here’s What Subscribers Pay Now

    Walt Disney has officially raised subscription rates for Disney+ and Hulu in the United States, with the new pricing taking effect on September 23, 2026. The company increased most plans by at least $0.50, but the biggest jump is on ad-free tiers, which are now $2.50 more per month.

    The revised rate structure is clearly designed to steer subscribers toward combined Disney+ and Hulu bundles. A standalone ad-free subscription now costs $21.49 per month, while the ad-free bundle is only $21.99 — making the bundle the more attractive option for users who want both services.

    New Disney+ and Hulu pricing at a glance

    Plan New Monthly Price
    Disney+ ad-supported $12.49
    Hulu ad-supported $12.49
    Disney+ ad-free $21.49
    Hulu ad-free $21.49
    Disney+ and Hulu ad-supported bundle $12.99
    Disney+ and Hulu ad-free bundle $21.99

    Paying separately for both ad-free services now costs a total of $42.98 each month. That is nearly twice the $21.99 monthly price of the ad-free bundle. The ad-supported bundle remains unchanged at $12.99, reinforcing Disney’s push toward its combined streaming offering.

    ESPN-inclusive bundles also cost more

    Selected packages featuring ESPN saw increases as well. The Disney+, Hulu and ESPN Select ad-supported bundle is now $21.99 per month, while the premium ad-free version rose from $29.99 to $32.99. Disney left the ESPN Unlimited bundles untouched at $35.99 and $44.99 per month.

    Why prices keep climbing

    This marks the fourth consecutive year of price increases across Disney’s streaming services, following a similar round of hikes in 2025. The move is also part of a wider industry pattern; according to TechCrunch, Apple TV+ and Peacock both raised their prices in August.

    Disney is simultaneously working to deepen platform integration and create a more unified Disney+ experience that brings Hulu content closer together. The company reported an 11% increase in combined Disney+ and Hulu entertainment streaming revenue in its latest quarter.

    Who is affected

    New subscribers will pay the updated rates immediately, while existing subscribers will see the new prices on their next billing cycle. The changes apply to U.S. subscriptions only and do not directly affect Indian users. Viewers in India should check local options such as JioHotstar for applicable streaming rates.

  • Dune: Awakening Console Release Brings Solo Mode, Flexible Difficulty, and Combat Upgrades

    Dune: Awakening Console Release Brings Solo Mode, Flexible Difficulty, and Combat Upgrades

    Dune: Awakening has officially landed on PS5 and Xbox, marking a major milestone for the survival game. The console launch is accompanied by a substantial update that reshapes how players engage with the Arrakis experience, introducing a fully playable single-player mode, customizable difficulty settings, and a host of new story and combat content.

    Single-Player Mode and Customizable Gameplay

    For the first time, players can experience the entire Dune: Awakening campaign alone. The new single-player mode makes the full game accessible without requiring multiplayer interaction. Those who prefer a more traditional survival challenge can still dive into the existing multiplayer structure.

    Three difficulty levels are now available, along with granular settings that let players adjust harvesting rates, XP gains, death penalties, sandstorm frequency, building limits, and item durability. This flexibility makes the game far more approachable while preserving the core survival mechanics that define the genre.

    PvP Becomes Optional

    Player-versus-player combat is now completely optional. Players who choose to stay in PvE environments can access all main content and rewards without the threat of hostile human players. The Deep Desert endgame has been split into distinct PvE and PvP scenarios, with the PvP version offering higher stakes and greater rewards. Similarly, the Landsraad faction endgame now operates with the same dual approach, and the rebuilt version is playable in both multiplayer PvE and single-player.

    New Story Content and Combat Changes

    The update introduces the third chapter of The Great Convention story arc. Combat has also received significant refinements, including a longer parry window and new enemy behavior patterns. Two new weapons are available: Dual Blades and the Pyrocket. The Rapier has been reworked to emphasize parrying, giving skilled players more tactical options in melee encounters.

    Reduced Penalties and New DLC

    Death penalties have been eased, and both base and vehicle backups now make losing progress far less punishing. For those seeking a cinematic twist, the USD 9.99 Filmic Archive DLC adds items inspired by the Dune films.

    A More Accessible Survival Experience

    Survival games are traditionally built around constant pressure, but Dune: Awakening is now handing players more control over that pressure. The result is a title that remains true to its survival roots while becoming far easier to approach for newcomers and veterans alike.

    Full cross-play is planned for a future update, and the Polar Cap expansion is expected to arrive as a free update later this year. With the console launch, Funcom has delivered a more versatile and player-friendly vision of Dune: Awakening.

  • Apple’s 2027 Anniversary iPhone to Feature Curved OLED Display Despite Delays in Advanced Screen Tech

    Apple’s 2027 Anniversary iPhone to Feature Curved OLED Display Despite Delays in Advanced Screen Tech

    Apple is reportedly scaling back some of the advanced display technologies originally planned for its 20th-anniversary iPhone in 2027, but the company is still moving forward with a significant visual redesign. According to industry reports, the upcoming model will feature a four-sided curved OLED display that creates a near-borderless appearance.

    Apple Delays Advanced Display Technologies

    Color Filter on Encapsulation (COE) and LTPO+ were among the technologies expected to debut in the 2027 iPhone. COE integrates the color filter into the display structure, reducing panel thickness and improving light efficiency. LTPO+ is designed to enhance power efficiency through improved transistor technology. However, Apple has reportedly postponed the introduction of both technologies, with no revised timeline confirmed.

    Industry sources suggest the delays may be due to technology maturity and rising production costs. Adding new display components could increase manufacturing expenses at a time when memory prices are already pressuring smartphone costs.

    Four-Sided Curved Display Remains

    Despite the delays, Apple is expected to pursue a four-sided curved OLED display. The panel will curve subtly around all four edges, giving the impression of a larger screen and significantly reducing the visual presence of the frame. Earlier reports described Apple’s approach as a ‘micro-curved’ design, which is less extreme than the waterfall-style displays used by some Android manufacturers. This shallow curvature helps reduce image distortion and makes edge gestures more comfortable.

    Apple may also use optical engineering alongside the physical curve to make the display appear almost bezel-free. Reports have also suggested an all-glass design as part of the company’s broader redesign plans.

  • Venu Srinivasan Defies Tata Trusts Directive, Intensifying Boardroom Dispute Over Tata Sons Governance

    Venu Srinivasan Defies Tata Trusts Directive, Intensifying Boardroom Dispute Over Tata Sons Governance

    Venu Srinivasan, the veteran industrialist and chairman emeritus of TVS Motor, has deepened a governance dispute within Tata Trusts by backing N. Chandrasekaran’s reappointment as chairman of Tata Sons on September 17. Despite a directive from Sir Dorabji Tata Trust instructing him to vote against the reappointment, Srinivasan supported Chandrasekaran and also endorsed Tata Sons’ listing plan, intensifying the boardroom row in Mumbai.

    Four directors voted in favor of both decisions, while Noel Tata opposed them, placing Srinivasan at the center of the conflict. Fresh filings have now linked TVS Motor to a warehousing venture involving Chandrasekaran’s family, raising additional scrutiny over governance and disclosure practices.

    Who Is Venu Srinivasan?

    Srinivasan, 73, is a fourth-generation member of the TVS family founded by T. V. Sundaram Iyengar. He studied engineering at the College of Engineering, Guindy, and completed management studies at Purdue University. Under his leadership, TVS Motor grew into a major two-wheeler and three-wheeler manufacturer in India. His emphasis on quality management earned the company’s brakes business the prestigious Deming Prize in 1998.

    In 2020, Srinivasan received the Padma Bhushan for his contributions to industry and public life. He joined the Reserve Bank of India’s Central Board as a non-official director in 2022. In 2025, he stepped away from daily operations at TVS Motor, handing executive leadership to his son Sudarshan Venu. He now serves as chairman emeritus of TVS Motor and non-executive chairman of TVS Holdings.

    Role at Tata Sons and Trusts

    Srinivasan has been a director on the Tata Sons board since 2016, making him one of the longest-serving independent directors. He also holds senior positions within Tata Trusts, including vice-chairman of the Sir Ratan Tata Trust. Before the September 17 meeting, Sir Dorabji Tata Trust sought to restrain him from voting on Tata Sons’ listing. Srinivasan rejected the instruction, arguing that his duties as a director required him to act in the best interests of Tata Sons, not the Trusts.

    Tata Trusts later challenged Chandrasekaran’s reappointment, calling the decision a ‘legal nullity.’ The dispute has escalated, with the Trusts questioning the validity of the board’s actions.

    Scrutiny Over Hanno One Warehousing Deal

    The latest scrutiny involves Hanno One Warehousing, a company where Chandrasekaran’s wife Lalitha and son Pranav serve as directors. In June 2025, TVS Motor leased 17 acres in Tamil Nadu to Hanno One for a warehouse project. HDFC Bank later offered Hanno One a Rs. 60 crore construction loan for the planned facility. Tata Trusts alleged that Srinivasan did not disclose the relationship between TVS Motor and the Chandrasekaran family to its trustees, adding another layer to the governance dispute.

    The boardroom row continues to unfold, with implications for the future governance of both Tata Sons and Tata Trusts.

  • Airtel, Jio, and Vi Ordered to Launch Voice-Only Recharge Plans Under New TRAI Rules

    Airtel, Jio, and Vi Ordered to Launch Voice-Only Recharge Plans Under New TRAI Rules

    TRAI Tightens Recharge Plan Requirements

    The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has directed Airtel, Reliance Jio, and Vodafone Idea to broaden their voice- and SMS-only recharge offerings. The new rules require telecom operators to provide calling- and messaging-only plans across shorter validity periods, giving customers who do not need mobile data more flexible options.

    The amended regulations take effect on October 21, 2026, after being officially notified on September 21. Under the framework, operators must offer voice-and-SMS-only options for validity periods of 30 days or less wherever comparable combined voice, SMS, and data plans exist.

    What Telecom Companies Must Do

    • Offer voice-and-SMS-only Special Tariff Vouchers (STVs) for validity periods of up to 30 days.
    • Provide a monthly plan that renews on the same date each month, or on the last day of the month when that date does not exist.
    • Introduce at least one longer-validity voice-and-SMS-only plan that matches existing long-duration data-inclusive offerings.

    Why TRAI Is Expanding Voice-Only Plans

    TRAI had earlier asked operators to offer at least one voice-and-SMS-only STV, but these plans were mostly concentrated around longer validity periods. That left limited choices for consumers who rely on basic phones, use Wi-Fi for data, keep a secondary SIM, or simply prefer not to pay for mobile internet.

    The regulator argues that these users should be able to pay only for the services they actually use. The consultation for the latest amendment drew 1,132 responses from telecom operators, industry bodies, consumer groups, and other stakeholders, followed by an Open House Discussion on June 15, 2026.

    Operator Concerns and Pricing Outlook

    Major telecom providers opposed the expanded mandate during consultations. Reliance Jio argued that existing tariff options were already sufficient and questioned the need for separate plans for every validity period.

    TRAI has not yet announced specific pricing for the new voice- and SMS-only plans. Instead, it has provided guidance for operators to adjust tariffs to reflect the removal of data, leaving room for market-driven pricing.

  • Amazon’s $309.5 Million Refund Settlement: Eligibility, Deadlines, and Steps to Claim

    Amazon’s $309.5 Million Refund Settlement: Eligibility, Deadlines, and Steps to Claim

    Amazon has proposed a $309.5 million settlement to resolve claims that some customers did not receive accurate, timely, or complete refunds for returned physical products. The proposed class action, In re: Amazon Return Policy Litigation, is pending in Washington federal court. Amazon denies any wrongdoing, and the court has not found any legal violation or misconduct.

    What Is the Amazon Refund Settlement About?

    The lawsuit focuses on refunds that were allegedly missing, delayed, incorrect, or later reversed after customers returned products through Amazon.com. According to settlement materials, an internal review by Amazon in 2025 identified a limited group of unresolved refund cases. Some refunds failed during payment processing, while others involved issues with return verification.

    Amazon says it began issuing some affected refunds separately during 2025. The company has also agreed to make reasonable efforts to issue additional payments outside the settlement fund.

    Who Is Covered by the Settlement?

    The settlement covers U.S. customers who returned physical products through Amazon.com between September 5, 2017, and February 12, 2026. To qualify, customers must meet all of these conditions:

    • Purchased a physical product through Amazon.com
    • Initiated a return or refund request for that product
    • Amazon’s records show the returned product reached the United States during the covered period
    • The refund remained unpaid, was late or incorrect, or was later charged back after payment

    Subclass A and Subclass B

    The settlement divides eligible customers into two groups. Subclass A includes qualifying customers whose information is already in Amazon’s records. These customers will receive payments automatically if the court grants final approval, but they must visit the settlement website within 105 days to select a payment method.

    Subclass B covers eligible customers who need to submit a claim form to receive payment. The claim deadline is December 1, 2026. The same deadline applies to customers who wish to exclude themselves from the settlement or submit objections.

    Court Approval and Key Dates

    The court granted preliminary approval on August 18, 2026. A final approval hearing is scheduled for March 16, 2027, at 10 a.m. Pacific Time in Seattle. Payments will begin only after the court approves the settlement.

    How Much Will Eligible Customers Receive?

    The $309.5 million fund does not guarantee identical payments for every eligible customer. Distribution will follow the court-approved settlement plan after valid claims and approved expenses are accounted for. The fund also covers administration costs, attorney fees, and any approved incentive awards.

    How to File a Claim

    Eligible customers can check claim instructions and get the latest updates on the official settlement website, ReturnSettlement.com. The site includes court documents, deadlines, and additional information about the Amazon refund settlement.

    Amazon has stated that the settlement is not an admission of liability, and the court has not concluded that Amazon violated consumer protection laws. Customers with questions are encouraged to review the official settlement website and act before the December 1, 2026, deadline.

  • Meta Connect 2026: Seven New AI Devices Aim to Make AI Ubiquitous in Daily Life

    Meta Connect 2026: Seven New AI Devices Aim to Make AI Ubiquitous in Daily Life

    Meta Connect 2026: A New Era of Wearable AI

    Meta Connect 2026 showcased the company’s ambitious vision to integrate artificial intelligence into everyday life beyond traditional screens. The event, held on September 23-24 at Meta’s headquarters, introduced seven new products that span smart glasses, AI assistants, and wearable technology.

    The Seven New Devices

    • Strapless Meta VR Glasses: A new design for virtual reality without traditional straps.
    • Ray-Ban Meta Audio: Camera-free audio glasses weighing 43 grams with up to 12 hours of use, starting at $349.
    • Ray-Ban Meta Gen 3: Refreshed smart glasses with a 12MP camera, 3K video recording, and nine-hour battery life, priced at $449.
    • Meta Adventurer: A budget-friendly option starting at $249.
    • Expanded Meta Ray-Ban Display: An updated version of the display glasses.
    • Muse AI: Glasses-bound AI assistant.
    • Muse Charm: A pocket-sized AI companion.

    Pricing for the lineup ranges from $249 to $1,299, making AI accessible to a broader audience.

    Meta’s AI Strategy: Ubiquity and Accessibility

    Meta emphasized that its Ray-Ban, Oakley, and Meta Glasses range will surpass 100 styles by the end of 2026. The company is expanding into new markets and offering lower-priced options like the Meta Adventurer. The goal is to have AI accompany users throughout their day, whether through glasses, phones, or small devices.

    With these launches, Meta is not focusing on a single high-end device but diversifying its lineup to cater to different needs and budgets. The company’s vision positions smart glasses as the next-generation computing platform.

    Meta Connect 2026 points to a simple goal: Meta wants its AI to stay with users throughout the day. Glasses, phones, and small devices can each become another way to reach the same AI service.