News
OnePlus 12 Reportedly Receives a Slight Price Increase
OnePlus, a Chinese smartphone maker, offers high-quality specifications smartphones at an affordable price if we compare it with other flagship smartphone brands such as Samsung. But this year, there will be a slight increase in the price of the OnePlus 12. On the other hand, the OnePlus 12R can be a value-for-money phone.
The previous flagship model of OnePlus i.e. OnePlus 11 comes with a price tag of $699 (INR 58,117). But now, the upcoming model i.e. OnePlus 12 expected to come with a pricing of $799 (INR 66,432) which is $100 (INR 8,314) more if we compare it with its previous model. OnePlus has introduced wireless charging, the new Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, and an improved Camera in the OnePlus 12. These improvements and new add-ons hinted at a hike in the pricing of the upcoming flagship.
But now, it seems to be confirmed by TechPuls’s newsletter. The newsletter claims that OnePlus 12 pricing will be $799 (INR 66,432) which is an increase of $100 (INR 8,314) if we compare it with the previous model. OnePlus 12 is cheaper than the OnePlus 10 Pro, which launched for $899 (INR 74,746). On the other hand, the OnePlus 12R is expected to be a great value at $499 (INR 41,488) which makes it the lowest-priced non-Nord since 2017 (OnePlus 5T).
Google’s Pixel 7a is also available at the same pricing. The OnePlus 12R has outdated specs but the pricing at which it comes is impressive. It is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2. The OnePlus 12R has already been announced in China as the OnePlus Ace 3. But globally, the OnePlus 12 Series is going to be launched on January 23.
Do you guys plan to purchase the OnePlus 12 or OnePlus 12R? Do let us know in the comment box. Also, do tell us what you think about the hike in the price of the OnePlus 12.
iOS 26.3 update is shaping up to be one of the most important software releases for iPhone users in recent years, with Apple preparing meaningful upgrades that could impact hundreds of millions of devices worldwide. Currently available as a developer and public beta, the update highlights Apple’s growing focus on secure messaging, better cross-platform communication, and smarter system features.
iOS 26.3 Update Brings End-to-End Encrypted RCS Messaging
One of the biggest additions in iOS 26.3 is groundwork for end-to-end encryption (E2EE) in RCS messaging. According to reports from MacRumors, Apple is enabling support for RCS Universal Profile 3.0, a key requirement for encrypted messaging between iPhone and Android users.
“The iOS 26.3 update focuses heavily on improving messaging privacy and cross-platform compatibility.”
Until now, iMessage conversations between iPhones have been encrypted, but chats with Android devices lacked the same level of privacy. With iOS 26.3, messages and attachments exchanged via RCS could gain the same protection, preventing third parties from reading them. However, carriers will ultimately decide when this feature is activated, which means rollout timelines may vary.
iMessage-Style Features Coming to RCS
Beyond encryption, iOS 26.3 introduces several long-awaited messaging features for RCS chats. Users will be able to send in-line replies, edit sent messages, unsend messages, and finally use Tapback reactions like thumbs up or hearts without workarounds. These changes aim to make conversations between iPhone and Android feel far more seamless.
“With the iOS 26.3 update, Apple is addressing long-standing differences between iPhone and Android messaging.”
Apple has previously confirmed its commitment to improving RCS, and the latest beta suggests the wait may soon be over. The update is expected to support devices ranging from iPhone 11 to the upcoming iPhone 17.
More Updates Beyond Messaging
The iOS 26.3 public beta, released earlier this week, also refines the process of transferring data from iPhone to Android. Additionally, users will notice an updated wallpaper gallery and new region-specific features, particularly for EU users.
“Overall, the iOS 26.3 update positions Apple’s Messages app as a more secure and modern communication platform.”
There are also references to Gemini, following the collaboration announcement between Apple and Google, hinting at deeper AI integration in future iPhone experiences.
What to Expect Next
While iOS 26.3 looks promising, it remains a beta. Some features may still change or be delayed before the final release. With carrier involvement required for encrypted RCS, the exact timeline remains uncertain, but the direction is clear: Apple is pushing iPhone messaging toward a more secure and unified future.
Also Read: Google Fast Pair Vulnerability: 17 Bluetooth Audio Devices Exposed to Dangerous Risk
Android 16 QPR3 Beta 2 is now rolling out, and it marks a significant step forward in Google’s ongoing effort to refine the Android experience on Pixel smartphones. The update arrives shortly after the previous beta, showing Google’s aggressive pace in polishing the upcoming Quarterly Platform Release. It is available in two build versions: CP11.251209.007 for the Pixel 6 and Pixel 7 series, and CP11.251209.007.A1 for all other supported Pixel models.
Android 16 QPR3 Beta 2 focuses on performance, stability, and usability
Android 16 QPR3 Beta 2 brings a wide range of under-the-hood improvements aimed at fixing some of the most common issues faced by Pixel users in recent builds. According to Google, this release addresses multiple stability, performance, and usability issues, making daily usage smoother and more reliable.
Users who have been dealing with random app crashes, system freezes, or lag should notice a clear improvement after installing this update. Battery performance has also been optimized, with fixes targeting excessive battery drain and inconsistent charging behavior. These changes are expected to be especially noticeable during extended screen-on time and overnight standby.
Connectivity has received a strong boost as well. Android 16 QPR3 Beta 2 improves Wi-Fi reliability and speed while also enhancing call stability, reducing dropped calls and network-related interruptions. Alongside these changes, Google has refined parts of the user interface, resulting in smoother animations and more consistent system behavior.
Google has shared a detailed changelog for this beta, and some of the most notable improvements were highlighted directly by the company on Reddit, giving early testers a clear idea of what to expect.
How to try Android 16 QPR3 Beta 2 on your Pixel
If you are interested in testing Android 16 QPR3 Beta 2, you can enroll your compatible Pixel device in the Android Beta Program. Before installing, it is strongly recommended to back up all important data, as beta software can still contain unresolved bugs.
Overall, Android 16 QPR3 Beta 2 feels like a mature and meaningful update, bringing Pixel devices closer to a stable and polished Android 16 release.
Also Read: Gemini Personal Intelligence: 10 Things to Know About Google’s New AI
How Roblox Age Check for Chat Works in India
Roblox age check for chat has officially become mandatory in India, marking a significant shift in how online gaming platforms manage user safety and age-appropriate communication. Starting January 14, 2026, users must complete an age verification process before accessing chat features on Roblox, making it the first major gaming platform to enforce age checks for users of all ages
The new system relies on facial age estimation, completed directly within the Roblox app using a device camera. The process takes only a few seconds and is designed with privacy in mind. Images and videos captured during verification are securely processed by Roblox’s partner Persona and deleted immediately after the age assessment is complete. Users aged 13 and above also have the option to verify their age using a government-issued ID.
How Roblox Age Verification Works
Once the age check is completed, users are placed into one of six age groups: under 9, 9–12, 13–15, 16–17, 18–20, and 21+. Chat access is automatically adjusted based on these groups. By default, users can communicate only with others in nearby age ranges, reducing the risk of inappropriate interactions between minors and adults. For children under nine, chat remains disabled unless a parent grants consent.
Why Roblox Age Check for Chat Is Important for Safety
This update is part of Roblox’s broader safety strategy aimed at creating a more secure and age-appropriate environment. The company has already rolled out similar measures in countries like Australia, New Zealand, and the Netherlands, with millions of users worldwide completing age checks so far. Roblox also continuously monitors behavior signals and may request repeat verification if inconsistencies are detected.
Parental Controls and User Support
Parents and caregivers gain additional control through Roblox’s parental tools, which allow them to review age-check status, update account details, and manage communication settings. Users who believe their age was incorrectly estimated can appeal through customer support or re-verify using alternative methods.
With this move, Roblox sets a new standard for online gaming safety, balancing user privacy with responsible communication controls.
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