Perplexity launches Health feature with Apple Health, Fitbit integration

by Hansraj Agrawal | Mar 20, 2026 | Technology

Perplexity has introduced Perplexity Health, a new feature that connects users’ personal health data to its AI platform, allowing queries to be answered using information from sources such as Apple Health, medical records and wearable devices.

The company said the feature is being rolled out as part of its Perplexity Computer tool and will initially be available to Pro and Max users in the US, with wider availability expected over time.

Perplexity Health: What it does

Perplexity Health is designed to bring together health-related data that is typically spread across multiple platforms. This includes data from Apple Health, electronic health records and wearable platforms such as Fitbit, Ultrahuman and Withings. Support for services like OURA and Function is expected to be added later.

The system aggregates this data into a single interface and allows users to ask health-related questions. Responses are generated using a combination of personal health data, medical records, lab results and activity metrics.

For example, a query about resting heart rate can take into account recent activity levels, past medical history and available test results, instead of relying only on general information.

The feature also includes a dashboard that tracks trends across different health metrics over time.

Integration with Perplexity Computer

Perplexity Health is integrated into Perplexity Computer, which the company describes as a system that uses AI agents to perform tasks such as research and analysis.

With health connectors enabled, users can generate outputs such as summaries before a doctor’s visit, training plans based on fitness data or personalised nutrition suggestions. The system can also be used to search for relevant medical information based on user data.

Perplexity said responses are based on clinical guidelines and peer-reviewed research, and include citations linked to source material. The company also noted that responses may include guidance on when users should seek professional medical care.

Privacy and rollout

According to Perplexity, health data is encrypted both in transit and at rest, with access controls in place. Users can disconnect linked services or delete their data at any time. The company said that personal health data is not used to train AI models and is not sold to third parties.

Perplexity Health will initially roll out to Pro and Max subscribers in the US over the coming weeks, with plans to expand to additional users and regions later.

Other platforms

Similar to this, Amazon recently introduced Health AI, an assistant that helps users ask health questions, review records and manage prescriptions. OpenAI has also introduced ChatGPT Health, which allows users to connect medical records and wellness apps for more personalised answers. Meanwhile, Microsoft launched Copilot Health last week within its Copilot service, which brings together medical records, wearable data and health history to help users understand their health information through AI-driven insights.

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Google eases sideloading of Android apps with focus on safety: How it works

by Hansraj Agrawal | Mar 20, 2026 | Technology

Google has outlined a new system that will allow Android users to install apps from unverified developers while adding multiple safeguards aimed at reducing scam-related risks. The company said the update introduces an “advanced flow” that gives users the option to bypass existing verification requirements, which were introduced to limit malware, fraud and data misuse on certified Android devices.

According to Google, the move is intended to balance platform openness with security, particularly for users who prefer installing apps from outside official distribution channels. The company added that the new process has been designed with additional checks to prevent users from being coerced into installing malicious apps, a tactic commonly used in scams.

Android Sideloading: How the advanced flow works

Google said the advanced flow is a one-time process that allows users to enable sideloading from unverified developers after completing several steps. The process begins with enabling developer mode in system settings, which is intended to avoid accidental or one-tap bypasses often used in scam attempts.

Users are then required to confirm that they are not being guided by someone else while disabling security protections. After this, the device must be restarted and reauthenticated, which Google said helps cut off any remote access or ongoing calls that may be used by scammers.

A mandatory one-day waiting period follows, after which users must verify their identity using biometrics such as fingerprint or face unlock, or a device PIN. Google noted that this delay is designed to counter urgency-driven scam tactics by giving users time to reconsider the action.

Once the process is completed, users can install apps from unverified developers, either for a limited period of seven days or indefinitely. The system will continue to show warnings for such apps, but users can choose to proceed with installation.

Limited distribution accounts for developers

In addition to changes for users, Google said it will introduce limited distribution accounts aimed at students and hobbyist developers. These accounts will allow app sharing with up to 20 devices without requiring government ID verification or a registration fee.

Google said both the advanced flow for users and limited distribution accounts for developers are expected to roll out in August, ahead of the new developer verification requirements coming into effect.

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Tech Wrap Mar 19: Fortnite returns, OnePlus Nord Buds 4 Pro, Realme P4 Lite

by Hansraj Agrawal | Mar 19, 2026 | Technology

Fortnite has finally returned to Google’s Play Store in India for Android users after a long wait of almost six years. Epic Games’ battle royale game is now available with a download size of 314MB. For the uninitiated, Fortnite was first released in 2017 but, since 2020, it has been delisted from the Play Store due to Epic Games’ legal battle with Google over the in-app payment system.

OnePlus has launched the Nord Buds 4 Pro in India, expanding its Nord audio lineup with a new pair of true wireless earbuds priced under Rs 4,000. The earbuds feature active noise cancellation (ANC) of up to 55dB, support for LHDC 5.0 audio and a claimed battery life of up to 54 hours with the charging case. They also include spatial audio, multiple microphones for calls and Bluetooth 6.0 connectivity.

Realme has launched the P4 Lite 5G smartphone in India. The smartphone is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 6300 chip and packs a 7,000mAh battery. The company claims it can deliver up to 1.47 days of usage on a single charge. Notably, the company also launched the P4 Lite smartphone last month with a UNISOC T7250 chip.

Instagram has introduced a new tap-to-pause feature for Reels, allowing users to pause videos with a single tap. Earlier, users had to press and hold the screen to pause a Reel. According to Instagram, the update aims to make playback controls simpler and improve the overall viewing experience. YouTube also offers a similar feature for its Shorts, where users can tap once to pause or play a video.

Perplexity’s AI browser, Comet, is now available on iPhones. As per the App Store listing, Comet is an AI-powered browser designed to act as a personal assistant and thinking partner. Perplexity said that the AI-powered browser adapts to how users think and work, and learns habits to help keep them organised. Comet AI browser was released in November last year and is already available on Mac, Windows and Android. It is now rolling out for iPhones running iOS 18 or newer versions.

Apple-owned Beats has launched the Powerbeats Pro 2 Nike Special Edition earbuds in India. Powered by Apple’s H2 chip, the earbuds support Class 1 Bluetooth. According to Apple, the workout-focused earbuds come with secure-fit earhooks, heart rate monitoring, Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and up to 45 hours of battery life. They also support fitness tracking and integrate with the Nike Run Club app. Notably, the standard Powerbeats Pro 2 launched in India in February last year at Rs 29,900.

Apple has started rolling out the release candidate (RC) build of the upcoming iOS 26.4 update to developers and public beta testers, indicating that the software is nearing its official release for eligible iPhones. The iOS 26.4 RC build is expected to be the final version and incorporates all the features introduced throughout the iOS 26.4 beta cycle.

The BGMI 4.3 update has been released, bringing back the Ancient Secret Rise theme mode while also introducing a redesigned in-game interface as part of what Krafton describes as a major overhaul of Battlegrounds Mobile India. The update also adds new content tied to IPL franchises such as the Chennai Super Kings and Kolkata Knight Riders, alongside additional gameplay systems and collaborations.

Meta has rolled out its v23 update for Ray-Ban and Oakley smart glasses. According to a report by 9To5Google, this update adds Hindi among the newly supported languages for the live translation feature. As per the report, the update also brings a more natural, real-time conversational experience with Meta AI, allowing users to interact in a more fluid manner, alongside a set of new features aimed at outdoor and sports use cases.

Spotify has announced that it has fixed an issue that was causing some Premium users to hear ads and see their accounts incorrectly marked as “Free” on the app. The company confirmed the fix after multiple users reported that their paid subscriptions were not functioning as expected.

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Like YouTube Shorts, Instagram now lets you tap to pause reels: What's new

by Hansraj Agrawal | Mar 19, 2026 | Technology

Instagram has introduced a new tap-to-pause feature for Reels, allowing users to pause videos with a single tap. Earlier, users had to press and hold the screen to pause a Reel. According to Instagram, the update aims to make playback controls simpler and improve the overall viewing experience. YouTube also offers a similar feature for its Shorts, where users can tap once to pause or play a video.

Instagram tap-to-pause feature: What changes

According to the company, users can now pause a Reel with a single tap and tap again to resume playback. Earlier, pausing required pressing and holding the screen, which the company said many users found less convenient and inconsistent. Once a Reel is paused, users will also see a “Mute” option, giving them more control over audio while watching content.

Instagram’s official creators account shared the update on Threads, stating that this gives viewers more control and ensures they don’t miss moments from content.

The new system is designed to make interactions more intuitive, especially for users who want to pause and closely view content without holding the screen.

The tap-to-pause feature has started rolling out to Instagram users. Availability may vary depending on the app version and region, but it is expected to reach all users gradually.

AI voice effects for voice notes in DMs

In related news, Instagram has introduced a feature that adds AI-powered voice effects to direct messages. The company said users can now change the style of their voice notes before sending them, while still keeping the original tone, rhythm and emotion of their voice.

Unlike traditional voice filters that can significantly change audio, the feature is said to keep the voice clear while adding subtle changes. Instagram said that these effects can make the voice appear more playful, stylised or character-like, without distorting the natural flow of speech. When a voice note is sent with an effect, the recipient can see which one was used and can tap on it to apply the same effect in their reply.

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Beats launches Powerbeats Pro 2 Nike Special Edition in India: Price, specs

by Hansraj Agrawal | Mar 19, 2026 | Technology

Apple-owned Beats has launched the Powerbeats Pro 2 Nike Special Edition earbuds in India. Powered by Apple’s H2 chip, the earbuds support Class 1 Bluetooth. According to Apple, the workout-focused earbuds come with secure-fit earhooks, heart rate monitoring, Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and up to 45 hours of battery life. They also support fitness tracking and integrate with the Nike Run Club app. Notably, the standard Powerbeats Pro 2 launched in India in February last year at Rs 29,900.

Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 Nike Special Edition: Price and availability

The Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 Nike Special Edition is priced at Rs 29,900, the same as the standard edition.

The company is offering the option of no-interest equated monthly instalments (EMI) of up to six months. Customers can also avail a bank cashback of Rs 1,500 on select cards.

Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 Nike Special Edition: Details

The Nike Special Edition Powerbeats Pro 2 features a two-tone Black and Volt design, which the company said is Nike’s signature colour theme. One earbud carries the Beats ‘b’ logo, while the other features the Nike Swoosh. The charging case comes with a Volt splatter finish and “JUST DO IT” branding inside.

Powerbeats Pro 2 is powered by Apple’s H2 chip, which also powers AirPods Pro 2. It supports Class 1 Bluetooth for connectivity and improved efficiency. Each earbud includes three microphones and a voice accelerometer for better call quality.

Apple said that the earbuds are designed for workouts, with updated secure-fit earhooks made from a lightweight nickel-titanium alloy for flexibility and durability. They are also rated IPX4 for sweat and water resistance.

Powerbeats Pro 2 comes with redesigned acoustics and supports Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and Transparency mode. ANC helps block external noise, while Transparency mode allows users to hear their surroundings.

The earbuds also support Adaptive EQ, which adjusts sound based on the user’s ear shape, and Personalised Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking for a more immersive listening experience.

The earbuds include built-in heart rate monitoring sensors designed for workouts. The company said that the sensors use LED optical technology to measure blood flow in real time. Users can sync this data with supported fitness apps, including the Nike Run Club app. The feature can also be turned off if not needed.

As per the company, the earbuds offer up to 10 hours of playback on a single charge, with up to 45 hours of total battery life using the charging case. Additionally, a 5-minute charge is said to offer 90 minutes of playback. The charging case now supports wireless charging and is 33 per cent smaller for easier portability. It also works with a USB-C charging cable.

Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 Nike Special Edition: Features

Type: Wireless workout earbuds with secure-fit earhooks

Chipset: Apple H2 chip

Connectivity: Class 1 Bluetooth

Audio Features: Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), Transparency mode

Sound Tech: Adaptive EQ, Personalised Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking

Fitness Features: Built-in heart rate monitoring sensors

App Support: Works with fitness apps, including Nike Run Club

Microphones: Three mics per earbud with voice accelerometer and Voice Isolation

Battery (Earbuds): Up to 10 hours of playback on a single charge

Battery (Total): Up to 45 hours with charging case

Charging: Wireless charging + USB-C support

Water Resistance: IPX4 sweat and water resistance

Build: Nickel-titanium alloy earhooks for a flexible fit

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OnePlus Nord Buds 4 Pro with 55dB ANC launched: Check price, features

by Hansraj Agrawal | Mar 19, 2026 | Technology

OnePlus has launched the Nord Buds 4 Pro in India, expanding its Nord audio lineup with a new pair of true wireless earbuds priced under Rs 4,000. The earbuds feature active noise cancellation (ANC) of up to 55dB, support for LHDC 5.0 audio and a claimed battery life of up to 54 hours with the charging case. They also include spatial audio, multiple microphones for calls and Bluetooth 6.0 connectivity.

OnePlus Nord Buds 4 Pro: Price and availability

Price: Rs 3,999

Introductory offer price: Rs 3,799

The OnePlus Nord Buds 4 Pro will be available for purchase from March 23 onwards via OnePlus’ website, the OnePlus Store app, OnePlus Experience stores and e-commerce platforms Flipkart, Amazon and Myntra.

OnePlus Nord Buds 4 Pro: Details

The company has said that the OnePlus Nord Buds 4 Pro offers up to 55dB active noise cancellation with a noise reduction bandwidth of 5000Hz. The earbuds also include adjustable ANC levels, allowing users to switch between light, moderate and maximum modes. A six-microphone setup, with three mics on each earbud, is used for call noise reduction, including in outdoor conditions.

The earbuds feature 12mm drivers with a titanium coating, which OnePlus says are designed to deliver improved bass and clearer vocals compared to the previous generation. They also support spatial audio, including a gaming-focused mode aimed at improving directional sound cues in supported titles.

For connectivity, the Nord Buds 4 Pro support Bluetooth 6.0 and LHDC 5.0 for high-resolution audio streaming, along with Google Fast Pair and Microsoft Swift Pair. The earbuds also include touch controls, including slide gestures for volume adjustment, and support features such as Spotify Tap, camera control and voice assistant access.

Each earbud weighs over 4 grams and comes with an IP55 rating for dust and water resistance. As per the company, battery performance is rated at up to 54 hours with the charging case, while a 10-minute charge is claimed to deliver up to five hours of playback. The charging case itself can provide up to 13 hours of additional usage with a quick top-up.

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