Tag: Phones and Gadgets

  • This might just be the greatest match throw in Super Smash Bros. history…











    Super Smash Bros. Ultimate can be a very chaotic. Even with tournament format rules in place, it can sometimes be very difficult to predict exactly how a match will play out.






    An interesting clip was recently showcased by TF|Demi, the Mr. Game & Watch user in the scene. By this point, he was already 0-2 against Spice’s Hero, and it looked like he was on track to lose the third match as well.









    Right as the clip begins, we see that Mr. Game & Watch, the third lightest character in the game, was already at 119% damage. Meanwhile, Hero had only taken about 36% damage and had just activated his Psyche Up action from his Command Select. Both players were on their last stocks.


    Though Demi was able to land a few more hits against Hero, Spice only needed to respond with a single attack of his own to knock out Mr. Game & Watch off the top. Indeed, all Spice had to do at this point was put down the controller and he would’ve won the game.


    However, Spice instead saw this as an opportunity to perform a taunt that only Hero is capable of. As such, he activated his down special, pulling up the Command Select menu once again.


    He was provided the options to use Snooze, Sizzle, Kamikazee, and Heal. Despite it being the third option, Spice opted to move his cursor to “Kamikazee” and activate it without any hesitation.


    The idea was simple: Mr. Game & Watch would perish in the background just before Hero completed the longwinded Kamikazee animation. This would produce an epic freeze screen that centered on Hero just before he exploded.


    Unfortunately for Spice, he was a bit too quick in selecting Kamikazee. Before Mr. Game & Watch lost his last stock of the game, Hero had blown himself up.


    From the player cameras, it can be observed that both players were surprised by this. They both had an amusing reaction to the scenario


    As mentioned before, it was actually the Mr. Game & Watch player that uploaded this clip. He labeled it on X as the “most skillful victory with Mr. Game & Watch.”


    Check it out below:








    Source: Event Hubs

  • Solo Leveling Season 3: When Is It Coming Out?

    After its stunning debut and phenomenal second season, the Solo Leveling anime has cemented its position as the best manhwa adaptation to date. Consequently, the anime’s fan following has seen a meteoric rise in a short time. Now, the fandom’s eyes are set on the next season after watching Solo Leveling Season 2’s memorable ending. If you are eager to learn about the third season, here is what we know so far about Solo Leveling Season 3 by A-1 Pictures.

    When Will Solo Leveling Season 3 Release?

    Image Credit: A-1 Pictures (via X/@sololeveling_pr)

    At the time of writing, Solo Leveling Season 3 has yet to be officially announced by A-1 Pictures. So, we will have to wait a while before we learn any concrete details.

    The growing popularity of Solo Leveling should automatically lead to the renewal of the anime for a third season. Recently, the anime’s producer commented, Solo Leveling will come to an end, for now. Earlier, rumors surfaced online that Solo Leveling season 3 has already been greenlit at A-1 Pictures. The only question that remains is when Solo Leveling Season 3 will be released.

    Although the production staff hasn’t revealed the release date of Solo Leveling Season 3 yet, we can try to predict it based on the history of Solo Leveling anime’s release schedule. Both seasons 1 and 2 of the anime premiered in January 2024 and 2025, respectively.

    So we expect Solo Leveling Season 3 to release in January 2026. But take this information with a grain of salt, as the release could be delayed if the studio is busy with other projects.

    Solo Leveling – Arise from the Shadow, aka Season 2, was sort of made as cour 2 of Season 1, which is the primary reason why the anime returned sooner than expected. As they are starting to work on season 3 from scratch, the third season’s release could be pushed further, possibly even Fall 2026 or even Winter 2027. We have to wait for some more to find out the release window.

    What to Expect from Solo Leveling Season 3?

    A-1 Pictures has already increased the pace at which they are adapting the Solo Leveling manhwa. They’ve successfully covered the story up to the Jeju Island arc in Season 2. So far, 107 chapters have been covered, and Season 3 will start with the Recruitment arc.

    The third season will raise the stakes higher than ever before with the introduction of new villains and supporting stars for the final saga, some of whom have already been teased in Season 2.

    Jinwoo getting ready to meet his next target
    Image Credit: A-1 Pictures (via X/@sololeveling_pr)

    The third season is likely to cover the following Solo Leveling arcs:

    • Recruitment arc
    • Ahjin Guild arc
    • Double Dungeon arc
    • Japan Crisis arc
    • International Guild Conference arc

    After covering up to chapter 199, season 3’s ending could tease the beginning of the Monarchs War arc. Sung Jinwoo has become one of the strongest S-Rank hunters in Solo Leveling, but how strong will he be against the Monarchs of the Solo Leveling universe?

    We will have to wait for more information about the upcoming third season of Solo Leveling. In the meantime, let us know your expectations for Season 3 adapt in the comments below.

    Ajith Kumar

    An entertainment writer with a passion for analyzing and sharing insights on movies, shows, and anime.


    Source: Beebom

  • Elon Musk discusses Mars ambitions at Wisconsin rally

    Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk recently spoke at a rally in Wisconsin, delivering remarks about the importance of national unity. He compared the United States to a large ship, stating that people must work together rather than abandon it. His comments reflected his long-standing vision of innovation and perseverance, defining his ambitious space exploration plans.

    During the event, Musk made a bold statement about his commitment to the United States, saying he was “dead and going to America, not going anywhere.” While his words were somewhat cryptic, they reinforced his belief in progress and determination, which drove his efforts in advancing space travel.

    Starship’s planned Mars mission

    Elon Musk also provided updates on SpaceX’s plans to reach Mars, stating that the company’s heavy launch vehicle, Starship, is expected to land on the planet by the end of 2026. The mission will reportedly include a Tesla humanoid robot, named Engine Tianzhu, which will be part of the first deployment. If this mission is successful, Musk believes that a crewed flight could take place as early as 2029, though he considers 2031 a more likely target.

    Shifting timelines for Mars exploration

    Musk has frequently adjusted his projected timeline for Mars missions. In early 2024, he suggested that an uncrewed mission could take place within five years, with the first crewed flight following two years later. His latest estimates are consistent with previous projections but still leave room for potential delays as SpaceX continues testing and refining Starship.

    SpaceX

    The Starship system is central to Musk’s vision of interplanetary travel. Measuring approximately 120 meters in height and 9 meters in diameter, it consists of two sections. The first stage, known as Super Heavy, is a powerful booster that stands about 70 meters tall. The second stage, called Starship, serves as the spacecraft that will carry cargo and crew. Both components are designed for reusability, which SpaceX sees as critical for reducing costs and enabling long-term space missions.

    Musk has a dream of making Mars a new home for humans, but there is no clear path on how it will work or who will own it. However, his recent statements have led some to think Mars might become part of the US. Yet, there are no real plans or rules for this. As SpaceX works on its tech, what lies ahead for Mars is still unknown. While Musk’s big goals push limits, when humans might live on Mars, they will rely on technological progress and mission progress.

    Disclaimer: We may be compensated by some of the companies whose products we talk about, but our articles and reviews are always our honest opinions. For more details, you can check out our editorial guidelines and learn about how we use affiliate links.Follow Gizchina.com on Google News for news and updates in the technology sector.

    Source: Giz China

  • How to stop your Android phone from secretly tracking you

    In an era where digital privacy is at risk, taking control of how your data is collected and used is crucial. Google gathers vast amounts of user information through its services, including Search, Maps, Assistant, and personalized ads. If you want to limit Google’s ability to track and record your activity via your Android phone, there are several settings you can adjust.

    Understanding spyware and its risks

    Spyware is a type of malicious software that operates in the background, collecting sensitive information without your knowledge. It can track login credentials, banking details, and online activity. Once installed, it may send this data to hackers or advertisers.

    One common way spyware infiltrates phones is through suspicious apps. While Google Play Store has security measures in place, some malicious apps still make their way onto the platform. Additionally, phishing scams can trick users into downloading infected files, often disguised as legitimate apps or software updates.

    Identifying spyware can be challenging because it is designed to remain undetected. However, some warning signs may indicate an infection. These include excessive battery drain, unexpected pop-ups, sluggish performance, and random reboots. If you suspect spyware, reviewing app permissions and performing a factory reset may help eliminate it.

    Steps to reduce tracking on your Android device

    There are several ways to prevent unauthorized tracking and safeguard your data. By adjusting your privacy settings, limiting app permissions, and disabling tracking features, you can minimize the risk of data collection.

    1. Disabling Google’s voice recording

    When you interact with Google Assistant, Search, or Maps using voice commands on your Android phone, Google may record and store these conversations. While the company claims this improves user experience, some individuals prefer not to have their audio stored. You can prevent Google from saving voice recordings by adjusting your web and app activity settings.

    To turn off voice and audio recording

    • Open the Google activity page in your browser

    • Navigate to Web & App Activity

    • Look for the option Include voice and audio activity and uncheck it

    Once disabled on your Android phone, Google will no longer save your voice inputs. However, this does not stop the Assistant from responding to commands. It only prevents recordings from being stored.

    2. Limiting location tracking

    Many applications, including Google services, track location data even when they are not actively in use. This data is used for location-based recommendations, targeted ads, and traffic updates. If you want to control which apps access your location, follow these steps

    • Open Settings on your Android device

    • Go to Location

    • Select an app from the list

    • Tap Permissions

    • Choose either Allow only while using the app or Don’t allow if the app does not require location access

    By restricting location tracking, you can prevent unnecessary data collection and reduce the risk of third-party tracking.

    Samsung One UI 6 - Android smartphone updates - Android Phone

    3. Disabling personalized ads

    Google uses your browsing habits, search history, and app usage on your Android phone to create personalized advertisements. While this might seem convenient, it raises privacy concerns for users who prefer not to be profiled. Fortunately, you can opt out of ad personalization.

    To disable personalized ads

    • Visit your Google Account page in a browser

    • Navigate to the Data & privacy section

    • Click on My Ad Center

    • Locate the Personalized ads toggle and turn it off

    After disabling this setting, Google will no longer tailor ads based on your activity. However, you may still see advertisements, but they will be less relevant to your interests.

    4. Reviewing Google’s privacy settings

    Google provides a Privacy Checkup feature that allows users to manage their data-sharing preferences. This tool enables you to review and adjust settings related to your location history, profile visibility, and third-party app permissions.

    To perform a privacy checkup

    • Open your Google account settings

    • Select Take Privacy Checkup under the Privacy Checkup section

    • Review and modify settings for timeline data, profile information, and third-party connections

    • Click Done to save changes

    This feature gives users a clear overview of how Google handles their data, offering greater control over what is shared.

    5. Stopping Google Assistant from always listening

    Google Assistant constantly listens for the phrase Hey Google to activate its voice recognition feature. While this is useful for hands-free control, some users may find it intrusive. If you want to stop Google Assistant from always listening, you can disable Voice Match.

    To turn off Hey Google detection

    • Open Settings on your phone

    • Tap Google

    • Navigate to Search, Assistant & Voice

    • Select Google Assistant

    • Go to Voice Match

    • Toggle off Hey Google

    Disabling this setting prevents your device from continuously listening for voice activation. However, you can still access Google Assistant manually through the Assistant app or by holding the home button.

    best Android phones Singapore - intro

    6. Enhancing overall phone security

    Beyond Google’s tracking, smartphones can also be compromised by spyware, phishing scams, and unauthorized app permissions. Here are additional steps to protect your data and reduce tracking risks.

    a. Identifying and removing spyware

    Spyware can secretly collect sensitive information such as login credentials, banking details, and browsing history. If your phone is infected, you may notice unusual behavior such as

    To check for spyware

    • Review installed apps and remove any suspicious ones

    • Check app permissions and revoke unnecessary access

    • Scan your device with a trusted security app

    • If problems persist, perform a factory reset

    b. Managing app permissions

    Many apps request access to features like the camera, microphone, and location, even when it is not necessary for their core function. Limiting these permissions reduces the risk of data misuse.

    To review and manage app permissions

    • Open Settings on your device

    • Tap Privacy

    • Select Permission Manager

    • Choose a permission type, such as location or microphone

    • Review which apps have access and revoke permissions where needed

    By controlling app permissions, you can prevent apps from collecting more data than they require.

    Conclusion

    There is a need for mobile phone users to take control of these devices as we now have more data theft. By turning off some Google features, Android users can ensure that their data stays safe and secure. Also, monitoring for spyware and managing app permissions further enhance security. If you use the steps above, you can ensure that your phone does not share more data than necessary.

    Disclaimer: We may be compensated by some of the companies whose products we talk about, but our articles and reviews are always our honest opinions. For more details, you can check out our editorial guidelines and learn about how we use affiliate links.Follow Gizchina.com on Google News for news and updates in the technology sector.

    Source: Giz China

  • Street Fighter 6’s director gives updates on Menat and Rose, along with clarifying which power Ingrid uses



    Menat’s crystal ball originates from past Capcom fighting game








    If you have a thing for Soul Power users, Street Fighter 6’s director, Takayuki Nakayama offered up some updates on Menat and Rose, two fortune tellers who are quite popular among some of the fan base.






    He also covered which power Ingrid uses, who was playable in Street Fighter Alpha 3 Upper, which is included in Capcom Fighting Collection 2, that comes out May 16, 2025.









    First off, a user linked up a graphic talking about characters in Street Fighter who use the Satsui No Hado and Psycho Power that included Rose and Ingrid, to which Nakayama clarified.


    “Ingrid and Rose don’t use Psycho power. Rose uses Soul power (A similar power Mu no Hado/Power of Nothingness). Ingrid uses another energy,” he said.


    From there, the same user mentioned a quote from Ingrid in Street Fighter Alpha 3 Upper where she’s talking with M. Bison and says that Psycho Power is her power, pictured below.




    “The Street Fighter Alpha 3 story is a bit irregular. [Ingrid] appears in three different games (one of which is unfinished), each with a different background. So what does that mean? ” wrote Nakayama.


    Moving on to Rose’s apprentice, things were much more clear, as Menat’s crystal ball was given an origin, and Nakayama also provided a status update for how she’s doing.


    “The crystal ball used by Menat is [the] Eye of Ravange. It should be noted that Menat is a disciple of Rose,” Nakayama said.


    Red Earth is a 1996 fighting game released by Capcom, which is where Ravange comes from. He’s a boss character in that game, and apparently Menat took his eye for her crystal ball before Street Fighter 5 rolled around.


    Staying on the subject of Menat, a user asked how she’s doing in Street Fighter 6’s timeline currently.


    “Menat is doing well. She’s still a novice fortune teller,” Nakayama concluded.


    You can find out more about how Final Fight and Street Fighter Alpha’s Cody and Guy are doing, along with status updates on numerous other female cast members in the Street Fighter 6 timeline.







    Source: Event Hubs

  • Take-Two Explains: Why GTA 6’s Release Date Remains a Mystery

    Players’ enthusiasm regarding Rockstar Games Grand Theft Auto (GTA) 6 is at an all-time peak. The company has not provided any updates since December 2023, and it seems as though they are keeping everything under wraps. Even though that is the current case, other sources continue to provide fresh pieces of information. Recently, Take-Two Interactive, Rockstar’s parent company, provided a meaningful update.

    Excitement Regarding Rockstar Games Latest Grand Theft Auto Title Continues to Climb

    Take-Two Interactive CEO Strauss Zelnick engaged in a discussion with Bloomberg concerning GTA 6. During the call, he explainend why the game does not have a predetermined release date. As per his own words, the excitement surrounding the game surpasses anticipation.

    Zelnick also touched upon other business decisions made by Take-Two, stating that the company releases marketing only right before the game becomes available. Comparatively, other businesses in the gaming industry tend to reveal deadlines years in advance.

    “We have competitors who announce release dates years in advance,” Zelnick stated. “We have determined that marketing materials should be available closer to the product launch. This means there is enough time for excitement to build, but also for expectations to be subdued.”
    This form of strategy allows Take-Two to remain overpromising and maintain quality of gameplay without external worries.

    What we know about GTA 6 so far

    Even if information is scarce, we have gathered a bit. And according to it, GTA 6 will release in the Fall of 2025. Still, the exact release date remains unknown.

    Speculations say Rockstar plans to release their second trailer next month, which means, if this is true, we get more details about the game shortly.

    Final Thoughts

    GTA 6 is, without a doubt, one of the most awaited video games in the world. It is clear that with the new strategies from Take-Two, the level of anticipation will be kept high without creating unreal expectations. It’s a long wait and will be test of patience but Rockstar usually delivers so one hopes that they do not disappoint.

    How many people here cannot wait for GTA 6? Let us know in the comments!

    Disclaimer: We may be compensated by some of the companies whose products we talk about, but our articles and reviews are always our honest opinions. For more details, you can check out our editorial guidelines and learn about how we use affiliate links.Follow Gizchina.com on Google News for news and updates in the technology sector.

    Source: Giz China

  • DeepSeek surpasses ChatGPT in monthly visits, ranks third globally

    DeepSeek has become the fastest-growing AI platform in the world, surpassing OpenAI’s ChatGPT in monthly website visits. According to the AI analysis platform aitools.xyz, DeepSeek recorded 525 million visits in February 2025, slightly exceeding ChatGPT’s 500 million. This marks a significant milestone for the Chinese AI model, highlighting its rapid rise in global adoption.

    DeepSeek’s market position

    DeepSeek now holds a global market share of 6.58%, placing it third among AI tools. It trails behind ChatGPT, which leads with 43.16%, and Canva, which has an 8.27% share. Despite its relatively recent introduction, DeepSeek’s swift expansion suggests a growing shift in AI preferences, with users increasingly turning to alternative models.

    Rapid rise in popularity

    Since early 2025, DeepSeek has gained widespread attention for its AI capabilities, attracting users from various industries. Its features and performance have contributed to its increasing popularity. On January 27, the DeepSeek app became the most downloaded free app on Apple’s App Store in both China and the United States, surpassing ChatGPT in U.S. rankings. This achievement demonstrated its global appeal and potential to challenge more established platforms.

    DeepSeek

    QuestMobile data further highlights DeepSeek’s rapid growth. On January 28, it overtook ChatGPT in daily active users, and by February 1, it had surpassed 30 million users. This made DeepSeek the fastest application in history to reach this milestone, surpassing the adoption speed of many major tech platforms. The surge in users reflects a strong demand for AI tools beyond OpenAI’s offerings.

    Competition in the AI market

    DeepSeek’s rise shows the AI field is changing fast, with more rivals in the field. OpenAI has led with ChatGPT, but new models hint at a shift in what users want. It is gaining many users fast, which points to a need for more AI choices. Can it keep this pace and rival ChatGPT? Time will tell, but its quick win proves the AI race is heating up. As AI grows, DeepSeek’s fate rests on fresh ideas and user trust. That it can vie with big names like OpenAI hints at a new market trend. If DeepSeek stays on track, it may shake up AI more, shaping how AI tools work worldwide.

    Disclaimer: We may be compensated by some of the companies whose products we talk about, but our articles and reviews are always our honest opinions. For more details, you can check out our editorial guidelines and learn about how we use affiliate links.Follow Gizchina.com on Google News for news and updates in the technology sector.

    Source: Giz China

  • Solo Leveling Season 2 Ending Explained: What’s Next for the Shadow Monarch?

    Solo Leveling Season 2 has finally concluded with a banger episode. It showcased the aftermath of Jinwoo vs Ant King. Apart from getting another shadow, Jinwoo is getting ready to face another threat. If you’re wondering what the finale sets up for Season 3, here you go.

    Jeju’s Darkest Hour Begins with the Arrival of Ant King

    Image Credit: A-1 Pictures (via X/@sololeveling_pr)

    Following the Ant Queen’s demise at the hands of the Korean hunters, the Ant King enters the game. He ignores the hunters and rushes toward his queen to eat her brain. Well, he does that to see the memories of Ant Queen before her death. The Ant King learns that Cha Hae-In unleashed the final blow on her, and that’s why he doesn’t waste any time and hits the S-Rank hunter. After that, he attacks the top S-Rank Hunters. Min Byung-Gyu keeps on healing them by disguising himself. As he was the only healer on Jeju Island at the time, he became the priority target for the Ant King.

    The monstrous enemy detects Min Byung-Gyu using his enhanced senses and intelligence and kills him in a brutal fashion. After that, he grabs Baek Yoonho’s neck and hangs him up in the air.

    ”You killed our Queen…. killing your soldiers will not make up for that.” – Ant King to Yoonho

    The Ant King asks Yoonho who their King is, and suddenly, he feels the presence of a strong hunter outside. So, he rushes towards Goto Ryuji, who is slowly approaching the battlefield with the members of his team. The S-Rank hunters are surprised after discovering the corpses of fellow hunters from their nation. Ryuji instantly calls Matsumoto, Korea’s Chairman, to inform him about the tragedy. When Ryuji tells him that the force they are fighting this time is way more dangerous than they thought, Matsumoto asks him to abandon the Japanese hunters and pull out of the battle with the surviving Korean hunters.

    However, before they can leave the Island, the Ant King shows up and ambushes Ishida with one strike. Ryuji asks the other member to run and reunite with Team Bravo, as he believes that his S-Rank abilities are enough to deal with the Ant King. The Ant King asks him if he is King, to which he proudly says, The King… Yeah. I am the King. After that, Ryuji doesn’t get to live longer as the Ant King beheads him after shocking him with his raw powers.

    ”What is this magic power? I feel like I have encountered something like this before.” – Ryuji’s final words

    Sung Jinwoo Arrives to Save The Day

    Jinwoo in Solo Leveling Season 2
    Image Credit: A-1 Pictures (X/@SoloLevelAnime)

    Jinwoo initially doesn’t join the hunters in the 4th raid on the Jeju Island dungeon, but as a responsible Korean hunter, he attaches one of his shadows with Goto Ryuji to keep track of the incidents happening on the Island. Following the ruthless killing of the Japanese hunter at the hands of the Ant King, Jinwoo switches places with the shadow using his Shadow Exchange ability. He makes a heroic entry on the Island and stuns every civilian of the nation who has been livestreaming the gruesome dungeon raid.

    Initially, it’s the Shadow soldiers of Jinwoo who grab the attention of the S-Rank hunters, and later, the Shadow King appears himself. Jinwoo heals the hunters with his healing potion, but can’t help Cha Hae-In as her injuries seem to be fatal compared to others. Jinwoo suggests that, as Cha Hae-in is growing weaker with every passing minute, they must take her out. However, before they can do anything, the Ant King shows up with an army of ants.

    The Ant King and Jinwoo get into the most intense duel, and as always, the latter emerges as the victor. After that, he rushes toward Cha Hae-In and makes her drink the Elixir of Life despite boasting a limited stock of the magical potion.

    However, the Holy Water of Life also doesn’t work on the S-Rank hunter. So, seeing no other option, Jinwoo extracts the shadow of Min Byung-Gyu so that he can heal Cha Hae-In. Well, this idea works, and the S-Rank hunter’s Mana stops fading; later, we see her alive and well, talking about getting even stronger. Yoonho requests that Jinwoo not force Byung-Gyu to be a part of the chaos anymore. Jinwoo does the same and terminates the shadow extraction to let his soul rest in peace.

    Jinwoo Gets a New ‘Unconditional Loyal’ Shadow

    Beru in Solo Leveling Season 2
    Image Credit: A-1 Pictures (X/@SoloLevelAnime)

    While the other hunters evacuate the Island following the terrible battle, Jinwoo stays behind to fight the surviving mutant ants. He goes to the Ant King’s corpse and extracts his shadow. After becoming a shadow soldier, he reveals how happy he is to be a part of Jinwoo’s army. As every soldier of the shadow army emerges with a rank, the Ant King is ranked General. Jinwoo gets skeptical as none of his soldiers had boasted this rank earlier. However, he discovers that the rank might be indicating that he is the mightiest of all the other soldiers.

    The Ant King requests Jinwoo to pick a name for him, and it again astonishes the hero that he wants to be named by the one who killed him.

    ”I was not killed by you.. Rather, it was through your powers that I was reborn, master.”- Ant King’s shadow

    Later Jinwoo names him Beru. In the Manga, Jinwoo explains that he remembers an author named Beru, who wrote a book on ants. That’s why he is naming him Beru.

    A New Threat Looms Over Jinwoo

    While the Knight Guild members collect resources from Jeju Island, they come across two beast-like creatures. They are none other than the Monarch of Fangs and Frost Monarch. This is the first time that Solo Leveling’s Monarchs have appeared in the anime, indicating the incredible fights we all are about to witness in Season 3.

    Right now, the Monarchs have no idea why the Shadow Monarch is saving humans. For now, they have started hunting some of the most powerful Hunters around the world. So, get ready to see several National Hunters in the upcoming season. Also, Jinwoo will make a stand against this villainous entity and will finally get the full powers of the Shadow Monarch.

    Aparna Ukil

    Aparna is the Senior Entertainment Writer at Beebom. She started her professional journey in the retail industry but her admiration for films and TV shows pulled her into the field of entertainment writing where she has experience writing for various well-known publishers including Otakukart, Sportskeeda, Game Revolution, Forever Geek and Dexerto.


    Source: Beebom

  • Apple’s Next Leap: iPhone 18 and TSMC’s Cutting-Edge 2nm Chip

    TSMC will hold an expansion ceremony for its new 2nm wafer fab in Kaohsiung at the end of March. According to The Central News Agency, the company will start taking orders in April. Apple is the first customer for this new process. The tech giant plans to use the 2nm-based A20 chip in its iPhone 18 series. The iPhone 18 which will feature the A20 chip is expected to launch next year.

    TSMC 2nm Chip: Why It Matters

    TSMC’s 2nm process (N2) is one of the most advanced semiconductor technologies in the world. It brings significant improvements over the current 3nm (N3) process. The 2nm technology uses gate-all-around (GAA) transistor design. This enhances performance, boosts power efficiency, and increases transistor density. With these improvements, devices will become faster and more energy efficient.

    Details About the 2nm Process

    The 2nm process is TSMC’s first chip to use the Nanosheet structure. This is a type of GAA transistor that improves chip efficiency.

    • High Production Yield: TSMC’s 2nm process has already reached a trial production yield of over 60%, according to Chinese media outlet Icsmart. This shows that the production process is becoming more reliable. The company is expected to begin mass production soon.
    • Expansion Plans: TSMC is ramping up its production capacity. By the end of 2025, the company will be able to produce 50,000 2nm wafers. Taking into account the full operation of its Baoshan and Kaohsiung fabs.
    • Apple’s A20 Chip: Taiwanese media outlet Economic Daily News reported that Apple’s A20 chip in next year’s iPhone 18 series will feature TSMC’s 2nm process. It also disclosed that the 2nm chip will bring a 15% performance boost over the 3nm chips that will feature in the iPhone 17 series.
    • Other Customers: Industry analysts believe that AMD, Intel, Broadcom, and AWS may also use TSMC’s 2nm technology for their products.

    2025 Chip Market Growth

    iPhone 18 TSMC 2nm

    The global semiconductor market is expected to grow steadily in 2025. This follows a recovery in 2024.  According to IDC, strong demand for AI chips and a gradual recovery in other sectors would be the driving force behind this growth.

    • Foundry Market Growth: The foundry market is projected to expand by 18% in 2025.
    • TSMC’s Market Position: TSMC is leading in advanced semiconductor technology, particularly in nodes below 5nm. It is also excelling in CoWoS (Chip-on-Wafer-on-Substrate) packaging technology. The company has received strong orders for AI accelerators, boosting its market share. Putting all these factors into consideration, TSMC’s market share is expected to reach 37% by the end of 2025.

    Conclusion

    TSMC’s 2nm process marks a major step forward in chip technology. Apple is leading the charge with its A20 chip in the iPhone 18 series. Other major tech firms are also likely to use this cutting-edge process. The semiconductor market is on track for strong growth, with TSMC positioned as a key player in the future of the chip industry.

    Disclaimer: We may be compensated by some of the companies whose products we talk about, but our articles and reviews are always our honest opinions. For more details, you can check out our editorial guidelines and learn about how we use affiliate links.Follow Gizchina.com on Google News for news and updates in the technology sector.

    Source: Giz China

  • New WhatsApp Features Added in March 2025

    Another month, another new features list, and this one’s going to be quite exciting as WhatsApp has brought many new additions that were in beta to everyone’s devices. While also sharing snippets of what other exciting things we can expect to see in the app later this year. So, with that said, let’s dive into all the new WhatsApp features added in March 2025.

    New WhatsApp Features Added in March 2025 (Stable)

    As mentioned, some pretty exciting new features have made their way to your favorite messaging app over the course of March. So without any further ado, let’s take a look at them.

    1. Add Songs to Status Updates

    • Available on Android and iPhone

    Yes, the feature is finally here! You can now add songs to status updates, just like you could on Instagram. You just have to tap the song icon at the top, search for any song using the vast catalogue, pick the portion you want to use, and share it with your status on WhatsApp. This brings the experience close to what it is on Instagram, making it more seamless between the two apps.

    The feature is available for both the Android and iPhone versions of the app, so if you haven’t received it yet, then you should update the app ASAP!

    2. Redesigned Font and Color Selection Tool

    • Available on Android and iPhone
    WhatsApp new font and color picker for status updates preview

    Another status-related update is that WhatsApp has updated its font and color selection tool. We talked about it in our February features list. It fixes a long-standing issue where you had to keep tapping the font and color options to cycle through them. Now they are all laid out in front of you, making it easier to pick the one you want to use.

    3. WhatsApp Web Receives a Makeover

    New WhatsApp Web theme and welcome banner
    Image Credit: WABetaInfo

    Along with the mobile version, WhatsApp Web also received some much-needed love in March. They overhauled the WhatsApp Web theme, making it visually darker and more consistent with the app version of WhatsApp. Along with it, they have also updated some icons and other UI elements. You can head to web.whatsapp.com to check out this new theme.

    • Available on Android and iPhone
    Add your Instagram Account username in the WhatsApp bio

    For all you Instagram influencers, WhatsApp is making it easy to find out your account on the platform. If you head to the profile option on the app now, you should see a new “Links” option where you can add your Instagram account here. This way, your contacts will be able to quickly jump to your Instagram profile and follow you.

    5. Create Profile Images with Meta AI

    • Available on Android and iPhone
    Create AI Image option for WhatsApp Group Chat Profile Photos

    WhatsApp is adding the option to let you create an image for your profile or group chat icon using Meta AI. To do this, simply go to Settings > Profile > your profile picture > pen icon, and choose the Create AI Image. This new option let you set your creativity free and add anything unique to your profile picture.

    6. View Once Photos on Linked Devices

    • Available on Android and iPhone
    Watch view once media on linked WhatsApp devices

    Another feature we talked about in our February features list is the ability to see “View Once” photos on linked devices. This rudimentary feature was restricted for linked devices, requiring you to use your primary WhatsApp device instead. However, this restriction has now been lifted for good.

    7. Event Option for Individual WhatsApp Chats

    • Available on Android and iPhone
    Creating Events in Individual Chats on WhatsApp

    WhatsApp is also bringing the Events feature to individual chats. This feature has been available for a while for group chats, but WhatsApp was testing it on one-to-one conversations too. Now it is finally available for everyone, so you can now plan dates, and set an event for them right from the chat.

    Upcoming WhatsApp Features in March 2025 (Beta)

    While you enjoy the above new WhatsApp features, let us also take a look at some of the new stuff the app is working on for later releases.

    8. Enhancements to Meta AI

    • Testing on Android and iPhone
    Meta AI Live chat screen preview in WhatsApp Beta
    Image Credit: WABetaInfo

    WhatsApp keeps improving its Meta AI experience on the app, and they are now testing some interesting new changes. Now you can long-press the Meta AI icon to enter live conversation mode. This will let you have a one-on-one voice chat with Meta AI and get real-time replies, similar to what we see with Gemini Live or ChatGPT Voice.

    It also shows a call-like notification, allowing you to continue your voice chat even when you step outside WhatsApp as if you are on a call. It also shows options to mute and end the conversation right from the notification.

    9. New Emoji Reaction Tray

    New Emoji Reaction tray shown in a group chat on WhatsApp

    Now this isn’t a big feature, but a minor visual change I thought was worth mentioning. When you tap on an emoji reaction on a message, it will show a new tray showing which user reacted with which emojis. This is especially helpful in group chats where you get bombarded with reactions, and this new tray can help you sort out who reacted with which emoji.

    10. Message Replies in Threads

    WhatsApp Chat Showing the Threaded Replies
    Image Credit: WABetaInfo

    Another minor but helpful change, which is under testing, is message reply threads. This will let you track long chat replies to see who is replying to whose messages. Again, this is more helpful for group conversations than individual chats, and it will be interesting to see how it is implemented.

    11. Option to Send Motion Photos

    Option to send Motion Photos in chat shown in WhatsApp Beta
    Image Credit: WABetaInfo

    Most smartphones these days have an option to capture motion photos. Unlike regular photos, these capture a second or two of video along with the audio. Given how common this feature is these days, WhatsApp is adding an option to let you share them instead of treating them as regular photos like it does right now. This is another feature set to arrive later on.

    12. Directly Share Spotify Song to WhatsApp Status

    • Testing on Android and iPhone
    WhatsApp Status Showing the new Spotify Song Sharing Preview
    Image Credit: WABetaInfo

    WhatsApp is also improving its cross-platform capabilities, not just with its sister apps like Instagram and Facebook, but other popular apps as well. The app will soon allow you to share Spotify songs directly to WhatsApp Status updates.

    This will be a much better preview than what it is currently, showing the background of the shared song, along with album art and artist name. It will also show the song link at the top of the status, letting you jump directly into Spotify to enjoy the song yourself.

    13. Save Your WhatsApp Status

    • Testing on Android and iPhone
    Showing the Save option

    Since we are on the subject, WhatsApp now lets you save your status updates. You can click on the 3 -dots icon next to your status and find a new Save option. Tap on it, and your status will be saved to your gallery. So if you ever felt like downloading your shared status, now you have the option to do so.

    14. Send Messages from WhatsApp Status

    WhatsApp Status Showing the message shortcut in the viewers list

    Since WhatsApp wants you to post more status updates with its new features, there should be an option to easily interact with those viewing your status as well. That is why the app is adding a message shortcut that will appear in the viewer’s list. This will make it easy to jump into the chat of the people who like your status updates.

    15. Set WhatsApp as the Default App

    WhatsApp Beta option to set the app as the default calling and messaging app
    Image Credit: WABetaInfo

    Finally, WhatsApp is also testing an option to let you set it as the default messaging and dialer app on iPhones. This can be a useful option if you primarily use WhatsApp for making calls or messaging others.

    So these are all the new WhatsApp features we had in store for you in March 2025. I was pretty stoked about the song picker for status updates. Surprisingly, it arrived on stable before it did on the beta version I am running. Nonetheless, now that the feature is here, I am sure WhatsApp status will be much more fun.

    Source: Beebom