17th Jan - Technology News

TECHNOLOGY

• SAMSUNG Jan 17: Galaxy S26 Ultra Leaks Reveal Rounded Corners and Faster Wireless Charging

  Leaked case designs for the upcoming Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra suggest a departure from sharp edges, favoring more rounded corners and a revamped camera layout. While the S26+ is expected to feature a virtually unchanged display, internal upgrades focus on improved wireless charging speeds. However, early reports hint at potential "disappointment" regarding the Ultra's base specs, as competitors rapidly close the gap in mobile hardware innovation.

• OFFERS Jan 17: Republic Day Sales: Massive Discounts on iPhone 17 and Pixel 9a

  The Amazon Great Republic Day and Croma sales are live, offering unprecedented deals on flagship smartphones. The iPhone 17 is currently available at an effective price of ₹47,990, while the iPhone 17 Pro has dropped to ₹85,700 with bank offers. Google's Pixel 9a and Samsung's M-series budget phones are also seeing deep price cuts under ₹50,000 and ₹10,000 respectively, making this the biggest shopping window of the year.

• IPHONE Jan 17: Apple iPhone 18 Leaks Point to Under-Display Face ID and Foldable Models

  Leaked specifications for the future iPhone 18 Pro series suggest Apple may finally implement under-display Face ID technology. Additionally, industry analysts have shared technical details for the long-rumored "iPhone Fold," which is expected to utilize high-end flexible display panels and a unique hinge design. While these models are years away, the supply chain is already gearing up for a significant shift in Apple's hardware roadmap toward foldable devices.

• REALME Jan 17: Realme 16 5G Retail Listing Confirms Massive 7,000mAh Battery

  The Realme 16 5G has appeared on retail listings, highlighting a massive 7,000mAh battery and a Dimensity 6400 chipset. The device features an "iPhone Air-like" camera design and a unique "selfie mirror" feature intended to aid high-quality vlogging. Meanwhile, higher-end Realme 17 Pro leaks suggest an IP69K certification and a 200MP main camera, signaling a strong push for premium features in the mid-range segment.

• SPACE Jan 17: Global Countdown Begins to Clean Earth Orbit of Dead Satellites by 2030

  With thousands of dead satellites posing a collision risk, the ESA's Zero Debris Charter is leading a global effort to clean Earth's orbit. New "invisible tractor" devices are being developed to de-orbit space waste using magnetic and robotic tech. Scientists warn that rising space debris could soon trigger a chain reaction, making certain orbits unusable if the international community fails to achieve the 2030 cleanup goals.

• SECURITY Jan 17: Google and Mozilla Patch 26 High-Severity Security Flaws in Latest Updates

  Google Chrome 144 and Firefox 147 have released critical patches to address 26 security vulnerabilities, including several high-severity flaws being actively exploited. Google has issued an urgent warning to billions of users to update their browsers immediately. The latest Chrome version also officially deprecates third-party cookie replacement features, moving toward the "Privacy Sandbox" model despite ongoing industry concerns regarding ad-tracking alternatives.

• ONEPLUS Jan 17: OnePlus Launches New Nord and Flagship Series with 100W Charging

  OnePlus has expanded its 2026 lineup with the launch of a new Nord smartphone featuring a 50MP camera and 100W fast charging, priced at ₹25,000. For flagship enthusiasts, a new Snapdragon 8 Gen 3-powered "Superphone" has debuted with a 120Hz ProXDR display and 65W wireless charging. Analysts suggest the Nord series continues to offer the most value for Indian consumers seeking premium performance at a mid-range price point.

• GOOGLE Jan 17: Gemini AI Upgrade Adds 'Personal Intelligence' to Scan Gmail and Drive

  Google has introduced a major update to Gemini, enabling "Personal Intelligence" features. This allows the AI to access and process information directly from a user's Gmail, Google Drive, and Photos to answer complex, personalized queries. While the upgrade significantly boosts utility for scheduling and data retrieval, it has raised fresh privacy discussions regarding the extent of data integration required to power these advanced AI assistants.

• APPLE-AI Jan 17: Apple Partners with Google Gemini to Power Next-Gen Siri AI Features

  In a historic move, Apple has officially chosen Google's Gemini AI to power the upcoming version of Siri. The partnership allows Apple to integrate advanced generative AI capabilities into its ecosystem while maintaining its focus on Private Cloud Compute. By sitting out the initial "AI arms race," Apple has positioned itself as a kingmaker between Google and OpenAI, opting for Gemini's integration over OpenAI's ChatGPT.

• WINDOWS Jan 17: Microsoft Fixes 114 Flaws in First Major Windows Update of 2026

  Microsoft has released its January 2026 patch, fixing 114 security vulnerabilities in Windows, including one flaw that was actively exploited by hackers. The update primarily focuses on consumer bug fixes and compatibility changes for Windows 11. For enterprise users, specific Server updates (KB5073379) have been shipped to improve stability. Microsoft also confirmed that more feature-rich free updates are scheduled for release later this year.

• MOTOROLA Jan 17: Motorola Signature Series Leaks with Premium Design and High Box Price

  Initial impressions of the Motorola Signature series point to a highly stylish design and solid camera performance, though Indian box price leaks suggest a higher-than-expected premium. The "Signature" camera walkthrough has generated significant hype for its natural color science and depth-of-field accuracy. As Motorola aims for the ultra-premium segment, the device will compete directly with the upcoming Galaxy S26 and iPhone 18 series.

• MEDIATEK Jan 17: MediaTek Unveils Dimensity 9500s Flagship Chip Built on 3nm Tech

  MediaTek has announced its flagship Dimensity 9500s chipset, a 3nm powerhouse designed to challenge the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5. Alongside it, the Dimensity 8500 was launched to cater to the premium mid-range segment. These new chips focus on extreme gaming efficiency and AI processing, promising to propel 2026's flagship smartphones into a new era of performance with significantly lower power consumption compared to previous generations.

• APPLE Jan 17: Debate Intensifies Over Apple's Visionary Status as Rivals Lead AI Race

  Industry experts and critics are questioning whether Apple is losing its status as a tech visionary due to its perceived "tortoise" approach to Artificial Intelligence. While competitors have made rapid strides, reports suggest Apple’s real challenge is proving it can maintain market dominance without an immediate AI breakthrough. Some suggest Apple can still win by refining user experience rather than rushing experimental technology.

• GOOGLE Jan 17: Google Launches TranslateGemma Open Translation Models Supporting Fifty-Five Languages

  Google has officially introduced TranslateGemma, a suite of open-source translation models built on the Gemma 3 architecture. Available in 4B, 12B, and 27B parameter sizes, the models support translation across 55 core languages. Designed to compete with ChatGPT Translate, the 4B model is optimized for mobile and on-device use, while the 12B variant is tailored to run efficiently on consumer-grade laptops.

• GMAIL Jan 17: Google Finally Allows Users to Change Gmail Addresses Without Losing Data

  Google has confirmed a long-awaited feature allowing users to change their @gmail.com email IDs without losing account data. The update enables users to switch to a new username while keeping their photos, messages, and Drive files intact. The previous address remains as an alternate email to ensure no messages are missed. Users can manage this change through the "Google Account email" section in personal settings.

• SAMSUNG Jan 17: Galaxy Z TriFold Positions Itself as Luxury Tech Masterpiece Despite High Costs

  Samsung's Galaxy Z TriFold is garnering attention as a "halo car" for the mobile industry, featuring a massive 10-inch internal display and a titanium dual-hinge design. While praised for its innovation as a phone-tablet hybrid, reports indicate high repair costs, with inner screen replacements estimated at over $1,200. Despite the premium price, Samsung aims for the TriFold to redefine the ultra-premium foldable segment for 2026.

• IPHONE Jan 17: iPhone Seventeen-E Leaks Suggest Dynamic Island Integration But Sixty-Hertz Refresh Rate

  Leaked specifications for the upcoming iPhone 17e suggest a significant design refresh, replacing the traditional notch with the Dynamic Island. However, the device is tipped to retain a 6.1-inch OLED display with a standard 60Hz refresh rate to maintain a lower price point. Expected to feature the A19 chip, the 17e is positioned as a modernized budget-friendly flagship despite missing ProMotion technology found in more expensive models.

• XIAOMI Jan 17: Redmi Note Fifteen Pro Series Confirmed for India with Two-Hundred-MP Camera

  Xiaomi has confirmed the Indian launch of the Redmi Note 15 Pro series, headlined by a powerful 200MP primary camera and a bold "Titan" design. The lineup, including the Pro and Pro+ 5G models, is expected to debut on January 27. Key features include 1.5K AMOLED displays, massive batteries up to 6,580mAh, and Android 15-based HyperOS 2, promising flagship-level durability and performance in the mid-range market.

• SAMSUNG Jan 17: Galaxy A Fifty-Six Discounted as Successor Models A Fifty-Seven and A Thirty-Seven Loom

  Samsung’s Galaxy A56 has seen significant price cuts, making it a highly competitive mid-range option with its Super AMOLED display and 50MP camera. However, rumors suggest the Galaxy A57 and A37 may arrive sooner than expected in 2026. Consumers are currently weighing the benefits of the discounted A56 against the potential performance leaps offered by the upcoming 5G-ready successors in the popular A-series lineup.

• GAMING Jan 17: Arknights Endfield Global Launch Set for January Twenty-Two with Thirty-Five Million Signups

  Hypergryph's highly anticipated 3D action RPG, Arknights: Endfield, has surpassed 35 million global pre-registrations ahead of its January 22 launch. New trailers showcase expansive industrial environments and a shift toward real-time hack-and-slash gameplay. The game will be available as a free-to-play title on PS5, PC, and mobile platforms, with the massive signup count signaling a potentially record-breaking debut for the franchise.

• SMARTPHONE Jan 17: Mid-Range Durability Reaches New Heights in Recent JerryRigEverything Torture Tests

  Recent durability tests from JerryRigEverything have highlighted a new trend: mid-range smartphones outperforming some premium flagships in structural integrity. Devices like the Redmi Note 15 Pro series are incorporating reinforced frames and "Titan" structures to survive extreme drops and pressure tests. This shift is forcing flagship manufacturers to reconsider materials beyond glass and thin aluminum to maintain their "premium" value proposition.

• ANDROID Jan 17: New Hybrid Smartphone Designs Aim to Bridge the Gap Between Phones and Tablets

  The emergence of tri-fold and dual-fold devices like the Galaxy Z TriFold is signaling a major shift in the Android ecosystem. These "halo" devices aim to completely replace tablets by offering a 10-inch screen in a pocketable form factor. While software optimization remains a hurdle, the purpose is clear: providing professional-grade productivity tools that adapt to the user's environment without the need for multiple devices.

• AI Jan 17: Google and OpenAI Competition Heat Up with New Standalone Translation Tools

  The race for AI-powered language services is intensifying following the simultaneous launch of Google’s TranslateGemma and OpenAI’s ChatGPT Translate. While Google focuses on open-source, on-device efficiency for mobile users, OpenAI’s solution prioritizes nuanced tone and context via its standalone web platform. Both companies are targeting travelers and researchers, but Google’s offline capabilities provide a distinct advantage for those with limited connectivity.

• RETAIL Jan 17: Amazon Great Republic Day Sale Features Massive Discounts on iPhone Seventeen Pro

  The 2026 Amazon Great Republic Day Sale has kicked off with the iPhone 17 Pro and OnePlus 15 emerging as the most sought-after deals. Retailers are offering significant exchange bonuses and bank discounts, particularly on premium 5G models. This annual sale remains a key driver for smartphone adoption in India, with budget-conscious buyers specifically targeting older flagship models and the recently leaked iPhone 17e.

• OPENAI Jan 17: OpenAI Releases GPT-5.2 Codex For Developers Via API and GitHub Copilot

  OpenAI has launched GPT-5.2 Codex, offering it to developers through a new API and integrating it into GitHub Copilot. Early benchmarks from Cursor suggest the model excels at long, autonomous tasks, outperforming rivals like Claude Opus 4.5. The update introduces a "planners and workers" architecture, allowing AI agents to build complex software, like browsers, in record time by dividing logic from execution.

• BGMI Jan 17: BGMI 4.2 Update Goes Live With New Modes And Exclusive In-Game Rewards

  Krafton India has rolled out the highly anticipated BGMI 4.2 update, featuring fresh game modes and a batch of new redeem codes for January 2026. Players can now unlock exclusive items such as the "Desert Prince" outfit. The update focuses on performance optimizations and new tactical items, maintaining the title's momentum as India's premier battle royale experience for mobile gamers.

• NVIDIA Jan 17: Nvidia May Discontinue High-VRAM Mid-Range GPUs To Prioritize Revenue Density

  Reports suggest NVIDIA is ending production of the GeForce RTX 5070 Ti and 5060 Ti 16 GB models. Industry insiders indicate the company is shifting focus toward GPUs with higher "revenue per gigabyte of memory." While ASUS and Gigabyte have issued clarifying statements, the move signals a potential market squeeze for gamers seeking affordable high-VRAM cards, as the manufacturer prioritizes high-margin AI and enterprise hardware.

• OPPO Jan 17: OPPO Reno15 Series Debuts With Pro Mini Model Aimed At Compact Enthusiasts

  The OPPO Reno15 series has officially launched, featuring the new Reno15 Pro Mini designed to challenge the OnePlus 13s in the compact flagship segment. The series emphasizes next-gen portrait photography and ultra-wide selfie capabilities. Reviews highlight the Pro Mini as a thoughtful compact device that balances a small form factor with high-end camera algorithms, though it faces traditional battery-size trade-offs typical of smaller smartphones.

• HONOR Jan 17: Honor Magic 8 Pro To Feature External Telephoto Extender Lens Support

  Honor is set to join vivo and OPPO in offering smartphones with external lens attachments. The upcoming Honor Magic 8 Pro RSR Porsche Design will feature a telephoto extender, allowing for physical focal length adjustments beyond standard digital zoom. The device is being marketed as a bridge between traditional photography and AI-driven image processing, targeting professional mobile photographers who demand hardware-level versatility.

• HEALTH Jan 17: Study Warns Takeaway Coffee Cups Release Thousands Of Microplastic Fragments

  A startling new study has revealed that common takeaway coffee cups expose consumers to thousands of microplastic particles. When hot liquids come into contact with the plastic lining of standard paper cups, fragments are released and ingested. Researchers are calling for stricter regulations on food-grade packaging, as the long-term health risks of microplastic accumulation in the human body become a growing concern for global health authorities.

• NETFLIX Jan 17: Netflix Discontinues Casting Feature On TVs To Drive Native App Usage

  Netflix users have discovered that the ability to "cast" shows from mobile devices to TVs is being phased out. Industry analysts believe Netflix is pulling the plug to force users toward native smart TV apps, which allow for better data collection and ad-delivery control. While the move has frustrated some users, the company claims it is focusing on "revitalizing" the viewing experience through integrated system features.

• AI Jan 17: OpenAI Launches ChatGPT Translate To Challenge Google Dominance In Language

  OpenAI has introduced "ChatGPT Translate," a dedicated tool aimed at rivaling Google Translate. The tool leverages GPT-5’s contextual understanding to provide more nuanced translations that account for local idioms and slang—a feature traditional translators often lack. While Google remains the market leader in speed and language coverage, ChatGPT’s ability to handle complex prose is already winning over professional translators and researchers.

• SAMSUNG Jan 17: Samsung Unveils Bezel-Less Micro-LED TV With Wrap-Around Screens At CES

  Samsung stole the show at CES 2026 with a wild Micro-LED TV where the bezel itself is a functional screen. This "side-screen" technology allows for auxiliary information or ambient art to wrap around the edges of the display. Marketed as the ultimate evolution of the "Frame" series, this TV represents a breakthrough in modular display technology, offering true edge-to-edge visuals without any visible structural borders.

• MICROSOFT Jan 17: Mustafa Suleyman Warns Of AI Risks While Leading Microsoft AI Strategy

  Microsoft AI CEO Mustafa Suleyman has voiced concerns regarding the rapid pace of AI development, stating that people should be "healthily afraid" of the technology’s trajectory. Despite his warnings, Suleyman is aggressively shaping Microsoft’s integration of autonomous agents across its software suite. His dual role as a pioneer and a cautious regulator highlights the internal tensions within tech giants as they balance innovation with safety.

• GAMING Jan 17: Sid Meier’s Civilization VII Set To Launch On Apple Arcade Next Month

  Apple Arcade will receive a major boost in February 2026 with the arrival of Sid Meier’s Civilization VII. This edition brings the full PC-level strategy experience to iPhone and iPad, blending historical learning with deep tactical gameplay. The mobile port is optimized for touch controls and cross-save functionality, marking one of the most significant "AAA" titles to join Apple's subscription gaming service to date.

• CES-2026 Jan 17: CES 2026 Innovation Spotlight: Beyond AI To Practical Hardware Solutions

  While CES 2026 remained "drunk on AI," critics noted that the most useful innovations appeared in physical hardware and energy efficiency. From system-level designs that reduce the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) for data centers to practical smart-home gadgets you can buy today, the event highlighted a shift toward tangible tech. Notable mentions included new e-ink devices and high-efficiency cooling systems for personal electronics.

• GAMING Jan 17: Italy Investigates Microsoft Activision Over Diablo And Call Of Duty Monetization

  The Italian Competition Authority has launched a formal investigation into Microsoft’s Activision Blizzard, focusing on the in-app purchase systems of "Diablo Immortal" and "Call of Duty Mobile." Regulators are scrutinizing the games' monetization strategies and sales tactics to determine if they violate consumer protection laws. The probe joins a growing global trend of authorities questioning the ethics of microtransactions and loot boxes in popular mobile gaming titles.

• MARVEL Jan 17: Deadpool Integration Pushes Marvel Rivals Player Count To Record Nine-Month High

  NetEase's super-hero shooter, "Marvel Rivals," has seen a massive surge in engagement following the introduction of Deadpool skins and content. The character push drove player counts to a nine-month peak, signaling a successful global engagement strategy for the publisher. Analysts suggest that the high-profile collaboration highlights NetEase's ability to leverage iconic IPs to maintain a competitive edge in the crowded team-based PvP shooter market.

• APPLE Jan 17: Apple Patent Grants Decline By 11% Signaling Potential Innovation Strategy Shift

  Apple's patent filings saw a notable 11% decline in 2025, sparking discussions about a possible slowdown in new technology development. While some analysts view this as a sign of waning innovation, others suggest it represents a strategic pivot toward refining existing ecosystems rather than broad patent hoarding. In contrast, Samsung continues to aggressively brand and patent new technologies, widening the gap in sheer volume of registered intellectual property.

• LEAKS Jan 17: GTA 6 Online Details Surface Via Court Documents Amid UK Legal Battle

  Fresh details regarding GTA 6's online mode have leaked through recent court filings, offering a glimpse into Rockstar's next-gen multiplayer vision. Simultaneously, the company faces legal turmoil in the UK, where a judge denied fired Rockstar employees' bid for interim pay relief. The legal action highlights ongoing tensions regarding worker compensation and corporate restructuring at the studio even as anticipation for the franchise's next chapter reaches a fever pitch.

• CYBER Jan 17: Cisco Patches Maximum Severity Zero-Day Exploited By China-Linked APT Group

  Cisco has finally released a patch for a critical Remote Code Execution (RCE) vulnerability in its Secure Email Gateway that was being exploited in the wild. Security researchers identified the attackers as a China-linked APT group, dubbed UAT-9686, which abused the AsyncOS bug for several weeks. The flaw allowed attackers to gain full control over affected systems, making it one of the most severe security threats addressed this year.

• LINUX Jan 17: Adobe Photoshop 2025 Installer Now Functional On Linux Via Patched Wine

  In a major win for the Linux community, the Adobe Photoshop 2025 installer has been confirmed to work on Linux systems using a recently patched version of Wine. This development bridges a long-standing gap for professional creatives who prefer open-source operating systems but rely on Adobe’s proprietary suite. While not an official native release, the improved compatibility marks a significant milestone in high-end software accessibility for Linux users.

• AUDIO Jan 17: WiiM Amp Ultra Receives Critical Acclaim For Compact Design And Performance

  The WiiM Amp Ultra is making waves in the audiophile community as a feature-packed, compact streaming amplifier. Early reviews praise its user-friendly interface and impressive sound quality relative to its size and price point. By combining high-resolution streaming capabilities with a robust physical amplifier, WiiM is successfully targeting consumers looking for an all-in-one "just add speakers" solution for modern home audio setups.

• HISTORY Jan 17: Aeon Explores The Linear Reimagining Of Time In Modern Human Thought

  A new philosophical analysis by Emily Thomas explores how the human perception of time was transformed from a cyclical concept into a linear one. The shift has fundamentally altered how society reimagines the relationship between the past and the future. This conceptual evolution is credited with driving the modern obsession with progress and technological advancement, as time became a resource to be managed rather than a repeating natural cycle.

• SAMSUNG Jan 17: Samsung Aggressively Brands New Technologies To Maintain Global Dominance

  Samsung is rapidly expanding its intellectual property portfolio, stamping its name on a vast array of emerging technologies at a record pace. Unlike its competitors who are seeing a decline in patent grants, Samsung’s "volume-first" innovation strategy aims to secure its position across multiple sectors, including displays, semiconductors, and mobile hardware. This aggressive branding ensures the South Korean giant remains the most prolific innovator in the consumer electronics space.

• MOBILE Jan 17: Call Of Duty Mobile Monetization Under Scrutiny In New European Probe

  "Call of Duty Mobile" is facing intense regulatory pressure in Italy as authorities investigate its "predatory" monetization mechanics. The probe is looking specifically at how digital items are priced and marketed to younger audiences. This investigation could set a precedent for how mobile games are regulated across the European Union, potentially forcing Microsoft to alter the lucrative in-app purchase systems that currently drive the title's revenue.

• SECURITY Jan 17: China-Linked APT UAT-9686 Exploits AsyncOS Bug For Targeted Espionage

  The threat actor group UAT-9686 has been linked to a series of targeted intrusions exploiting a now-patched maximum severity bug in Cisco's AsyncOS. The campaign focused on intercepting sensitive communications via Secure Email Gateways. Cybersecurity firms report that the level of sophistication suggests a state-sponsored effort aimed at high-value targets. Organizations are being urged to update their Cisco appliances immediately to mitigate the risk of ongoing backdoors.

• STRATEGY Jan 17: NetEase Global Playbook Revealed Through Marvel Rivals Deadpool Promotion

  Industry analysts believe NetEase is using "Marvel Rivals" as a testbed for a new global engagement playbook. By timing major character releases like Deadpool with high-engagement windows, the company has successfully revitalized its player base. This strategy emphasizes "live-service" excellence and constant content updates, aiming to challenge established giants like Overwatch by focusing on localized community events and aggressive IP-driven marketing campaigns.