Tech Desk 
Jan 26, 2025
An undated image showing various gadgets. — iStock
As the tech world continues to evolve at breakneck speed, this week saw a wave of exciting announcements from some of the industry's biggest players. From Samsung’s latest launch to Apple’s cutting-edge releases and Pixel’s groundbreaking advancements.
As we look ahead to the coming week, there are a few significant announcements and releases on the horizon.
Gadinsider has listed all the latest news and updates from the world of technology:
Apple Powerbeats Pro 2 wireless earbuds
Apple is expected to launch its new earbuds, Powerbeats Pro 2, as a successor to the Powerbeats Pro true wireless stereo (TWS) earphones. It is rumoured to get upgraded features alongside an improved design.
According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, the Powerbeats Pro 2 is “due imminently.” Apple is reportedly planning to hold product briefings to discuss the features of the purported earphones with the media "in a week or so" — claimed to happen later this month.
Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset with seven cores launched
Qualcomm has silently rolled out a new version of the Snapdragon 8 Elite chip with seven cores. The new variant provides the same clock speeds as the standard Snapdragon 8 Elite.
The smartphone manufacturers are likely to sport their handsets with this new seven-core Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset in the coming months.
The new chip is featured with prime and performance cores in a 2+5 configuration. Gadinsider has compiled all the details of the silently released Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset with seven cores.
Noise Tag 1 with Apple, iOS compatibility launched in India
Noise launched its new smart tag, Noise Tag 1, on January 17 (Friday) as the company's first Bluetooth-enabled tracker. It is a universal smart tag compatible with Android and iOS devices and designed to leverage their respective location-tracking technologies to locate lost or stolen items.
The company claimed that it can generate a loud 90dB sound and send a notification to the paired smartphone if the tracker is disconnected after a specified duration.
The Noise Tag 1 can work in tandem with Apple's Find My network, allowing iPhone users to locate lost or stolen items, like keys, luggage, wallets, and even pets. The same functionality is available for Android devices (Android 9 and above) supporting Google's Find My Device Network.
Noise Tag 1 is priced at INR 2,999 in India. Currently, it is available at INR 1,499 as part of a limited-period offer.
Noise ColorFit Pro 6 series launched in India
Noise has officially launched the ColorFit Pro 6 series in India, introducing two models: the ColorFit Pro 6 and the ColorFit Pro 6 Max.
These advanced smartwatches come with features such as an AMOLED display, gesture controls, Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity, and up to seven days of battery life, making them ideal for all tech enthusiasts.
The ColorFit Pro 6 is available for INR 5,999, offering several strap options such as braided, magnetic, and silicone. It also offers a mesh strap version that costs INR 6,499.
Meta developing Oakley-branded smart glasses for athletes
Building on the success of Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses, Meta’s Reality Labs is broadening its lineup of artificial intelligence (AI) smart glasses with a new Oakley-branded pair, specifically designed for athletes.
According to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, these AI smart glasses, internally referred to as “Supernova 2,” will be based on Oakley's Sphaera design and feature a camera positioned at the centre of the frame.
Xiaomi WinPlay Engine to support Windows PC games
Xiaomi is set to revolutionise the gaming industry with its forthcoming WinPlay Engine, which promises to bring Windows PC games to Android tablets. The WinPlay Engine is poised to support Steam, granting users access to a vast library of PC games.
This cutting-edge technology is currently in the testing phase, with Xiaomi recruiting volunteer testers in China to experience its capabilities.
Samsung introduces Galaxy Watch for Kids on Galaxy Watch 7
Samsung, in partnership with Google, launched the all-new Galaxy Watch for Kids experience on Galaxy Watch7 LTE, powered by Wear OS. Parents can manage the watch through Google Family Link, which allows them to set the necessary safeguards and personalise their child’s usage of the Galaxy Watch.
With a new Galaxy Watch for Kids, children can use the smartwatch to call and text trusted contacts, while parents can also track their kids’ locations via GPS.
The kids-friendly feature of the Galaxy Watch 7 is also supported on Verizon, T-Mobile, and AT&T networks, and the best part is that it doesn't necessitate parents to have a separate smartphone to be in charge.
Apple rolls out new beta firmware for AirPods Pro 2
Apple has introduced a new beta firmware update for its AirPods Pro 2, bringing improvements for developers before a broader public launch. The update, version 7E5067b, comes shortly before the release of iOS 18.3, raising excitement among AirPods users.
If you’re a developer or have early access, you can test the new beta firmware now. For regular users, Apple is expected to roll out the updated firmware to the public soon. Keep an eye out for updates to enjoy the best performance from your AirPods Pro 2.
NuPhy announces Kick75: World’s first hybrid profile mechanical keyboard
NuPhy, a brand known for its innovative keyboards, has announced the Kick75, the world’s first hybrid profile mechanical keyboard. This keyboard allows users to switch between low-profile and full-height mechanical switches in a single design, setting a new standard in keyboard customisation.
The Kick75 stands out with its unique ability to adapt to different preferences. While users may need to swap the case top when switching between the two profiles, this keyboard offers unparalleled flexibility.
Apple’s new Home products feature advanced wireless chips for integration
Apple is set to launch three new Home products this year, including the HomePod, a new Apple TV 4K, and the HomePod mini 2. Among these, the Apple TV 4K and HomePod mini 2 will feature a new Wi-Fi and Bluetooth chip designed in-house by Apple.
Codenamed Proxima, this chip is part of Apple’s strategy to create a seamless and energy-efficient wireless ecosystem.
Pixel Watch updates Emergency SOS feature to prevent accidental calls
Google is improving the Emergency SOS feature on the Pixel Watch by introducing a confirmation step to avoid accidental activations during activities like workouts.
Emergency SOS allows users to contact emergency services or a preselected contact by pressing the watch’s crown five times in quick succession.
Despite this new default behaviour, users who prefer the original setup can switch back to “Automatic call” by following these steps:
- Swipe down on your Pixel Watch.
- Go to Settings > Safety and Emergency> Emergency SOS.
- Tap Ways to start SOS and select Automatically call.
This update is rolling out over the coming weeks, so it may not be immediately available for all users.
Huawei FreeBuds with ear-hook design
Huawei is preparing new earbuds this year and one of these could be an ear-hook FreeBuds. It is expected that the company may opt for a major makeover of its new-gen earphones this time.
Recently, a tipster FixedFocus said that Huawei is working on new open-back earphones, codenamed Arc. The device seemed to be FreeClip 2 which may launch later this year.
