Sennheiser Profile Wireless stood out for me, and it might for you too

by Hansraj Agrawal | May 7, 2026 | Technology

In content creation, getting the audio right is often more complicated than capturing video itself. A microphone does more than improve clarity. It influences how freely you can move, how reliably you can record in different environments, and how much flexibility you retain while editing audio in post-production.

This became more apparent as I started exploring creator-focused audio gear beyond basic microphones. The shift was not only about improving sound quality but also about understanding how wireless systems can change workflow, recording style, and editing possibilities. That is the context in which I tested the Sennheiser Profile Wireless 1-Channel.

Single-channel, but room to expand

As the name suggests, the Sennheiser Profile Wireless 1-Channel ships with a single transmitter. However, the package includes a dual-channel receiver, which changes the long-term usability of the setup. Instead of purchasing a complete dual-channel kit later, users only need to buy an additional transmitter if their recording requirements expand. This approach makes the system more adaptable for creators who may initially work alone but later move into interview-based or collaborative content formats.

The bundle includes:

1 x Single-channel wireless transmitter

1 x Dual-channel wireless receiver

1 x USB-C adapter

1 x Lightning adapter

1 x Coldshoe adapter

1 x Clip magnet

1 x Transmitter windscreen

2 x USB-C cables

1 x Carry pouch

The inclusion of multiple adapters immediately positions the microphone system as device-agnostic, allowing it to work across smartphones, cameras, and computers without additional accessories.

Plug-and-Play simplicity

One of the strongest aspects of the Sennheiser Profile Wireless 1-Channel is its ease of use. The system does not require an app or a setup sequence to begin recording. Plug the receiver into the recording device, switch on the transmitter, and the system is ready to operate.

For creators working in fast-moving scenarios, this matters. It reduces setup friction and lowers the risk of missing moments due to pairing or software-related delays.

The receiver itself is more feature-rich than its size initially suggests. Beyond supporting two transmitters, it includes an OLED touchscreen that automatically rotates based on orientation. Through this interface, users can access recording controls and customise settings directly from the receiver without relying on companion software.

A flexible transmitter

The transmitter supports multiple ways of use. It can be clipped directly onto clothing, attached through the included magnetic clip, or connected to an external lapel microphone for extended placement flexibility.

Sennheiser has also integrated 16GB of onboard storage into the transmitter, enabling direct internal recording. This becomes particularly useful as a safeguard during wireless dropouts or range limitations. Sennheiser refers to this as Backup Recording Mode, which can be enabled through the receiver settings. The transmitter also includes a dedicated onboard recording button for standalone use.

This redundancy addresses one of the larger concerns with wireless systems: losing audio because of connection instability.

Bluetooth connectivity

A recent addition to the system is Bluetooth support, allowing the transmitter to connect directly without requiring the receiver in certain scenarios. This changes the way the system can be used, especially for smartphone-led recording workflows.

Removing the receiver simplifies mobile setups and reduces the number of accessories attached to the phone or camera rig. In practical use, this makes spontaneous recording easier and improves portability.

Features that scale from beginners to professionals

The Sennheiser Profile Wireless 1-Channel positions itself as a system that can accommodate both newcomers and experienced creators. Beginners benefit from its plug-and-play operation, while advanced users gain access to more technical capabilities.

One of the most important among these is support for 32-bit float recording. This format significantly expands dynamic range, allowing the microphone to capture both low-level ambient sounds and loud environmental noise without clipping. For creators, this provides greater flexibility during post-production, particularly when correcting exposure inconsistencies in recorded audio.

The benefit becomes more apparent during unpredictable recording conditions, where maintaining ideal input levels is difficult.

Battery life

Battery performance is another area where the system performs consistently. Both the receiver and transmitter deliver over five hours of operation on a single charge, making the setup suitable for extended shoots.

The use of USB-C ports across components also improves practicality. Since USB-C has become the standard connector across most modern consumer devices, carrying additional proprietary cables is unnecessary.

Where the system falls short

Despite its flexibility and feature set, there are aspects of the Sennheiser Profile Wireless 1-Channel that feel less refined.

The design is bulkier than some competing wireless microphone systems, making the transmitter more noticeable when clipped to clothing. Noise cancellation capabilities are also limited, meaning environmental sounds can still interfere in uncontrolled recording conditions.

Pricing may be another barrier. At Rs 19,900, the system enters a segment where buyers are likely to compare it against more compact alternatives or systems with stronger AI-based noise reduction features.

Verdict

The Sennheiser Profile Wireless 1-Channel succeeds in offering a creator-focused wireless audio system that prioritises flexibility and recording reliability. Its expandable architecture, onboard backup recording, Bluetooth support, and 32-bit float capability make it suitable for a wide range of recording scenarios.

At the same time, the bulkier design, limited noise suppression, and pricing position it as a system best suited for creators who value workflow flexibility over compactness. For users looking to move beyond entry-level wireless audio, it offers a feature set that scales with growing production requirements.

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Airtel launches Secure Workforce, cybersecurity platform for enterprises

by Hansraj Agrawal | May 7, 2026 | Technology

India’s second largest telecom services provider Bharti Airtel’s enterprise arm launched Secure Workforce to tackle AI driven cyber attacks. It is set to be the country’s first fully-managed and unified zero trust architecture (ZTA) security platform, with an end-to-end, compliance-ready security stack for enterprises, the telco said. The enterprise solution will be available to enterprises at optimised costs while removing the operational burden of building and running their security safeguards themselves.

“Enterprises today are under mounting pressure to protect end users and devices in the constantly evolving, targeted, AI-powered attacks. Building on our leadership in secure connectivity and cybersecurity, we have designed Airtel Secure Workforce to protect users, data and devices anytime, anywhere,” said Sharat Sinha, CEO, Airtel Business.

He added that the solution offers end-to-end protection that combines connectivity and managed security backed by 24×7 expert vigilance. “Its unified approach will help us to deliver maximum value to our enterprise customers enabling them to unlock up to 30 per cent optimisation in their security spends and stay focused on their business growth, confident that they are protected.”

The development comes at a time when Indian companies and the government are attempting to gauge the extent of Claude Mythos — an advanced artificial intelligence (AI) system that has been described as being capable of identifying hidden software vulnerabilities at ultra high speed — posing potential exploitation risk for companies or enterprises using legacy code. In other words, entities, including governments using code that Mythos can find gaps in, would be vulnerable. This may include critical infrastructure systems such as banking, finance, technology and telecom.

With over 2 million cybersecurity incidents reported in 2025 alone, the Sunil Mittal-backed company said end-to-end, compliance-ready security stack for enterprises, backed by Airtel’s pan-India network and 24X7 expert vigilance will secure endpoints across users, devices, networks, applications and data. The solution supports compliance with India’s Digital Personal Data Protection Act (DPDPA). It will strengthen endpoint detection and response, and secure remote access at every touchpoint, delivering stronger protection and better cost efficiency.

“The unified dashboard will offer enterprises a single view across networks, endpoints, users and data, helping secure employees across email, web, applications and devices. It also provides visibility into unsanctioned cloud and AI applications,” the company added.

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Disney+ could expand beyond streaming into a broader 'super app' ecosystem

by Hansraj Agrawal | May 7, 2026 | Technology

Disney could be planning a major expansion for Disney+ beyond streaming. A recent Bloomberg report suggests the company is internally exploring the idea of turning Disney+ into a larger “super app” that may eventually connect services like Disney parks, cruises, shopping and other experiences into a single platform. Although the project is reportedly still at an early stage, the company’s latest shareholder letter and earnings call both pointed towards a future where Disney+ becomes a more central platform for how fans interact with Disney’s brands and services.

Disney hints at bigger plans for Disney+

According to a report from Bloomberg, Disney has hinted at its long-term ambitions for Disney+, suggesting the company may be planning to transform the streaming platform into a much broader digital ecosystem. As reported, Disney is internally exploring the idea of combining Disney+ with several of its existing services into what employees have reportedly described as a “super app.”

The proposed platform could eventually bring together services such as the Disneyland Resort app, Disney Cruise Line Navigator, Disney Store and other Disney digital experiences under a single interface. The initiative is reportedly part of Disney CEO Josh D’Amaro’s broader push to simplify how customers interact with Disney’s ecosystem while also breaking down internal silos across the company. However, the report noted that discussions are still in the early stages, and no concrete development plans have been finalised so far.

At the same time, Disney’s recent quarterly earnings appeared to indirectly support these reports. In its official shareholder letter, the company stated: “As we look to build Disney+ beyond a premium streaming video service, we are focused on making the platform more engaging, more personalised.” Disney further added that it aims to make the platform “more central to how fans experience our brands,” while also highlighting ongoing work to improve the user interface and personalisation features.

The company also pointed to newer features already being introduced on the platform. In March, Disney launched “Verts,” a vertical video feed designed to improve content discovery on Disney+. The feature allows users to scroll through short clips from movies and shows available on the platform, helping them discover content more quickly without extensive browsing. According to Disney, the goal behind Verts is to improve discoverability and encourage more frequent daily engagement on the app.

During the earnings call, Disney CEO Josh D’Amaro suggested that the company sees Disney+ becoming much more than just a streaming app in the future. As reported by Variety, he described Disney+ as the company’s future “digital centerpiece,” indicating that Disney wants its different services and experiences, including parks, entertainment and other platforms, to become more connected over time through the app.

Disney has explored similar ideas before

The concept of a unified Disney platform is reportedly not entirely new. Bloomberg noted that former Disney CEO Bob Iger had previously explored similar ideas over the past decade, including testing a less comprehensive version in the UK.

D’Amaro now appears to be revisiting the idea. During Disney’s annual shareholder meeting in March, he said Disney+ would gradually evolve beyond a regular streaming service and become a central platform connecting Disney’s films, games, stories and other experiences in new ways.

Although Disney has not officially announced a “super app,” the company’s recent statements suggest that Disney+ could eventually expand far beyond streaming entertainment if these plans move forward.

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Google's on-device AI efforts irk consumers over shrinking storage space

by Hansraj Agrawal | May 7, 2026 | Technology

Some Google services are reportedly consuming storage space on smartphones and PCs without users explicitly realising it. Recent reports by 9To5Google and Engadget highlighted how Google’s growing use of on-device artificial intelligence models can temporarily occupy several gigabytes of storage in the background.

In some cases, users reportedly found large AI-related files downloaded automatically without explicit prompts. At a time when NAND and DRAM prices are rising, this additional storage usage is effectively consuming paid storage capacity without many users being fully aware of it. But why is this happening, and what exactly is being stored?

Chrome is reportedly consuming 4GB of storage on PCs

According to an Engadget report, computer scientist Alexander Hanff recently alleged that Chrome was downloading a large AI-related file called “weights.bin” in the background without clearly seeking user consent.

The file reportedly exceeded 4GB in size and was linked to Gemini Nano, which powers Chrome’s on-device AI features.

Engadget reported that the file appeared inside Chrome directories on some macOS and Windows systems after recent browser updates.

The report also noted that deleting the file sometimes did not solve the issue, as Chrome could reportedly download it again automatically.

This has raised concerns around transparency, privacy regulations, and even the environmental impact of distributing large AI models to millions of devices globally.

Google’s explanation for Chrome downloads

Google said the storage usage is linked to Gemini Nano, which has been available in Chrome since 2024 as a lightweight on-device AI model used for features such as scam detection and developer APIs.

According to Google’s support documentation, Chrome downloads these on-device generative AI models in the background so AI-powered features remain ready for use. The company said the models may support tools such as writing assistance, scam warnings, webpage summarisation, and tab organisation.

Google also responded to claims regarding files reappearing after deletion. The company said users can manually disable on-device AI models through Chrome’s settings menu under the “System” section. Turning the feature off removes locally stored AI models, though AI features that depend on them will stop functioning until the models are downloaded again.

Google further stated that the models may automatically uninstall themselves if a device runs low on resources, including storage space.

What is consuming extra space on Android smartphones

Android AICore is Google’s system service that allows generative AI features to run directly on Android devices instead of relying entirely on cloud servers. According to Google’s support documentation, the service is available on supported devices running Android 14 and above. AICore manages Gemini Nano, Google’s lightweight AI model designed specifically for smartphones and tablets.

The company said this allows AI-powered features to function locally on-device, improving privacy, reducing latency, and enabling some tools to work even without an internet connection.

Google said AICore powers features such as advanced proofreading, smart replies in apps like WhatsApp, scam detection, audio transcription, text summarisation, and translation.

According to a report by 9To5Google, the service can sometimes consume more storage than expected without notifying users.

Why AICore sometimes takes more space

According to the report, the increased storage usage is linked to how Android handles Gemini Nano updates. Google later explained the reason in an official support document. The company said that when a new version of Gemini Nano becomes available, Android temporarily keeps both the old and new AI models stored on the device for up to three days.

Google described this as a fail-safe mechanism that allows devices to instantly roll back to an older model if the update encounters issues, instead of downloading large files again. However, the increase in storage consumption is temporary. Once the system confirms the update is stable, the older model is automatically removed and the additional storage space is cleared.

Google also stressed that on-device AI processing is intended to improve privacy because sensitive data remains stored locally on the device instead of being sent to cloud servers.

Why Google is pushing on-device AI

The broader push toward on-device AI reflects a wider industry trend where companies are increasingly trying to run AI systems locally instead of depending entirely on cloud infrastructure.

Running AI models directly on devices can improve response times, reduce server costs, and offer stronger privacy protections because user data does not always need to leave the device.

However, the trade-off is that these models can occupy significant local storage and may run in the background without many users fully realising it.

As companies continue embedding AI deeper into operating systems and browsers, users are likely to see more local AI models quietly becoming part of everyday software experiences.

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Passkeys see uptake, but slow adoption keeps passwords in use for now

by Hansraj Agrawal | May 7, 2026 | Technology

Passwords have long been the default layer of online security, but their weaknesses are becoming harder to ignore. From repeated data breaches to increasingly sophisticated phishing attacks, the system is under strain. In response, technology companies are accelerating efforts toward passkeys, a password-less method backed by major tech players like Google, Apple and Microsoft. The shift is no longer theoretical. With infrastructure largely in place and adoption steadily rising, the conversation has moved from “if” to “how soon” passwords begin to fade out.

When Google introduced passkeys in 2023, it published a blog with the heading, “The beginning of the end of the password.” Apple also states that passkeys are easier to use than passwords and far more secure. In a blog, Microsoft wrote, “Although passwords have been around for centuries, we hope their reign over our online world is ending.” It is clear that these technology companies are betting big on passkeys. Probably, it is happening with potential plans to replace passwords altogether.

What’s wrong with passwords

The problem with passwords is both structural and behavioural. Users are expected to manage multiple strong credentials, but in reality, password reuse remains common. This makes large-scale breaches more damaging, as a single leak can compromise multiple accounts.

Phishing further weakens the system. Even secure passwords can be stolen if users are tricked into entering them on fake websites. At the same time, centralised password storage continues to be a high-value target for attackers. The result is a system that is increasingly difficult to secure at scale.

What are passkeys

Passkeys replace passwords with a system based on cryptographic authentication. Instead of entering credentials, users verify identity through biometrics like fingerprints or facial recognition, or a device PIN.

Technically, this relies on a pair of cryptographic keys — one stored securely on the user’s device and the other with the service provider. Since there is no shared secret like a password, there is nothing reusable for attackers to steal.

Why companies are pushing passkeys now

The push toward passkeys is being driven by both necessity and timing. On one hand, password-related risks continue to grow. On the other, modern devices now support secure hardware and biometric authentication, making password-less systems viable at scale.

For companies, there is also a clear business case. Login friction — failed attempts, resets, and abandoned sessions — directly impacts user engagement. Passkeys offer faster and more reliable sign-ins, improving both security and user experience.

Passkeys are already scaling at pace

Recent data suggests passkeys are no longer in an experimental phase.

According to an October 2025 report by the FIDO Alliance, based on deployments across companies such as Amazon, Google, Microsoft, PayPal, and TikTok:

93 per cent of user accounts are already eligible for passkeys

36 per cent of accounts have enrolled passkeys

26 per cent of sign-ins are now completed using passkeys

The performance gap compared to traditional authentication is also significant:

93 per cent success rate for passkeys, compared to 63 per cent for traditional methods

Around 30 per cent higher sign-in success rate, reducing failed logins

8.5 seconds average login time vs 31.2 seconds, making passkeys about 73 per cent faster

This indicates that passkeys are not just more secure, but also more efficient and commercially viable.

Device readiness is no longer a barrier

One of the biggest hurdles to adoption — device compatibility — has largely been resolved.

Data from State-of-passkeys.io shows that as of April 2026:

96 per cent of devices are passkey-ready

Desktop readiness rose from 76 per cent in late 2023 to 96 per cent by mid-2024, and has remained stable

Mobile readiness has climbed from 80 per cent in 2022 to 97 per cent by early 2025, and continues at that level

This means the vast majority of users already have the hardware needed to use passkeys, removing a key barrier to widespread adoption.

Hopes vs reality

Despite strong momentum, passkeys have not fully replaced passwords yet.

Many services still operate on a hybrid model, offering passkeys alongside traditional login methods. This is partly due to compatibility gaps across platforms and partly due to user habits.

Familiarity with passwords, combined with concerns around account recovery and device dependence, continues to slow full adoption. While passkeys are increasingly visible, they are not yet universal.

Security vs convenience trade-offs

Passkeys address some of the biggest weaknesses of passwords, particularly phishing and credential reuse. Since there is no password to enter, users cannot be tricked into revealing it.

However, they shift reliance toward devices. Access is tied to a phone, laptop, or ecosystem. If a device is lost or compromised, recovery can be more complex than resetting a password.

Backup and syncing solutions exist, but they introduce dependencies on platform ecosystems, which may not always be seamless across devices.

Should you start using passkeys?

For most users, the answer is increasingly yes. Passkeys offer stronger security and significantly faster login experiences, especially on supported platforms.

At the same time, they are not yet a complete replacement. Passwords still act as fallback options in many cases, and users need to be aware of recovery mechanisms before fully switching.

The bigger shift

What is clear is that the transition has already begun. With most devices now compatible, strong backing from major technology companies, and measurable improvements in both security and usability, passkeys are moving toward mainstream adoption.

Passwords may not disappear overnight. But this is a credible alternative that is both more secure and easier to use. Passkeys are changing the direction of where authentication is headed.

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WhatsApp tests widget to show Status updates on Android home screen

by Hansraj Agrawal | May 7, 2026 | Technology

WhatsApp is reportedly working on a new home screen widget for Android that could make checking status updates quicker. According to a report by WABetaInfo, the upcoming feature will allow users to see which contacts have recently shared a status update directly from their phones’s home screen, without needing to open the app.

The feature was spotted in WhatsApp beta for Android version 2.26.18.5. Although still under development, the widget is expected to work similarly to the status widget initially introduced on iOS.

What the new widget may offer

According to the report, WhatsApp is developing a new Home Screen widget designed to provide quicker access to recent status updates. At present, users need to open WhatsApp and navigate to the Updates tab to check statuses, while some updates may also appear through profile rings in the Chats tab. However, both methods still require opening the app first.

The upcoming widget is expected to allow users to view and access recent status activity directly from their Home Screen. It could prove particularly useful for people who frequently engage with WhatsApp Status updates.

The widget is expected to display a limited number of contacts, likely up to three at a time, who have recently posted a status. The report also suggested the widget will include a shortcut for creating status updates. Users may be able to tap the shortcut and instantly open the interface to upload a new status without navigating through the app.

Prioritising relevant contacts

As per the report, WhatsApp will use its existing ranking system to decide which contacts appear in the widget. The system reportedly prioritises people users interact with the most, including frequently messaged contacts and pinned chats. The algorithm may also highlight status updates that are close to expiring, making the widget more useful for keeping up with recent activity. Since the ranking process happens locally on the device, the feature is expected to remain privacy-friendly.

Similar to the iOS implementation

WhatsApp had previously introduced a status widget for iOS with compact and larger layouts that display updates from one or multiple contacts.

The Android version appears to follow a similar approach, bringing quicker access to status updates directly from the Home Screen. Users can already add existing WhatsApp widgets to their smartphone Home Screen for quicker access to chats and app functions. Widgets can also be repositioned or removed at any time depending on user preference.

How to add WhatsApp widgets on an iPhone

Tap and hold an empty area on the Home Screen until the apps start moving.

Tap Edit and then select Add Widget.

Search for WhatsApp using the search bar.

Select WhatsApp and swipe through the available widget options.

Tap Add Widget to place it on the Home Screen.

Drag and adjust the widget’s position as needed.

How to remove a WhatsApp widget

Tap and hold the WhatsApp widget on the Home Screen.

Select Remove Widget and confirm by tapping Remove.

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