Tech wrap for November 7: iOS 18.2 public beta, OxygenOS 15 release, iQOO 13 launch

Apple Releases iOS 18.2 Public Beta for iPhones

Apple has launched the first public beta of iOS 18.2, offering a glimpse into the latest features of Apple Intelligence for eligible iPhones. This update includes innovative tools like Image Playground and Genmoji, system-wide integration of ChatGPT, and Visual Intelligence for the iPhone 16 series. While most features are accessible to beta testers, the image generation tools are currently available on a waitlist basis, with gradual access being provided.

OnePlus 12 Users in India Get Android 15 with OxygenOS 15 Update

OnePlus has begun rolling out the Android 15-based OxygenOS 15 update for OnePlus 12 users in India. According to a post on the Community blog, the global rollout of OxygenOS 15 started a week ahead of schedule. This update brings Google's gesture-based Circle to Search and new artificial intelligence features powered by Google’s Gemini AI models.

iQOO 13 with Snapdragon 8 Elite Chip Launching in India Next Month

iQOO has confirmed that its latest flagship, the iQOO 13, will debut in India next month. Already available in China, the iQOO 13 is powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite chip. Key features include a 2K resolution display with a 144Hz refresh rate and a secondary “Q2” chip to enhance gaming performance. The Legendary Edition variant continues iQOO's collaboration with BMW Motorsports, featuring the logo and signature tricolor design.

OPPO Reveals Find X8 Series Camera Features Ahead of India Launch

OPPO has unveiled significant camera features for its upcoming Find X8 series smartphones, which were introduced in China last month. Expected to launch in additional regions, including India, soon, the Find X8 series boasts a dual periscope camera system with a Triple Prism Fold Reflection System, a pioneering technology in smartphones.

Microsoft Adds AI-Powered Rewrite Tool in Notepad for Windows

Microsoft is enhancing Notepad on Windows with an AI-powered Rewrite feature. This tool allows users to rephrase sentences, adjust tone, and modify content length. Currently available as a preview on Windows 11, it can be accessed in select regions, including the US, France, UK, Canada, and Italy.

Samsung to Compete with Apple with a Slimmer Galaxy S25 Series Model

Samsung is reportedly developing a “Slim” model for its upcoming Galaxy S25 series, aiming to rival Apple’s anticipated iPhone 17 Slim. Recently spotted on the GSMA IMEI database, this fourth model in the Galaxy S-series indicates that a Slim variant is in the works.

Google Developing Gemini-Powered 'AI Replies' for Pixel Phone App

Google is working on an “AI Replies” feature for the Phone app on Pixel devices, according to 9To5Google. This feature will suggest AI-generated responses, complementing the existing Contextual Call Screen, which allows users to handle calls without picking up.

Australia to Ban Social Media for Kids Under 16 to Protect Mental Health

In a move to safeguard the mental health of young Australians, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced a new restriction preventing children under 16 from using social media. Companies operating social platforms will be required to enforce these age restrictions or face significant penalties for non-compliance.