Fortnite will return on Google Play Store in India on March 19: Details

Fortnite will return on Google Play Store in India on March 19: Details



After a six-year-long tussle with Google, Epic Games’ Fortnite is set to return to Android’s Play Store in India. Fortnite’s official X account recently posted that no matter where users are, the renowned battle royale game will be back for them on the Google Play Store from March 19. Notably, the game was listed back on the Google Play Store earlier last year in December in the US, but now it is set to reach India as well as other regions.


Fortnite gets delisted from Google Play Store and what followed


The dispute between Epic Games and Google dates back to August 2020, when Epic introduced its own in-app payment system in Fortnite, bypassing Google Play’s billing mechanism. In response, Google removed the game from the Play Store for violating its policies, leading Epic to file a lawsuit accusing the company of maintaining an illegal monopoly over Android app distribution and payments. Epic contended that while Android technically allows sideloading, Google’s agreements with device makers and developers effectively restricted meaningful competition.

 
 


While Google settled similar antitrust complaints from Match Group and a group of US states with limited policy changes, Epic chose not to accept a financial settlement, instead pushing for wider structural reforms. In December 2023, a federal jury unanimously sided with Epic, finding that Google had engaged in monopolistic practices. The ruling directed Google to allow third-party app stores within the Play Store, discontinue preferential revenue-sharing arrangements and enable developers to direct users to alternative payment options.

 


Google challenged the verdict, but on July 31, 2025, an appeals court upheld the decision, marking a significant victory for Epic. This paved the way for the Epic Games Store and Fortnite to return to the Play Store without earlier restrictions. However, the reinstatement was not immediate, with Google taking over four months to bring the game back in the US and more than six months in other regions.

 


Fortnite had earlier faced a similar removal from the Apple App Store as well, though it was reinstated for iOS users in May last year.


What is Fortnite


Fortnite is a multiplayer online game developed by Epic Games and released in 2017. It is widely known for its battle royale mode, where up to 100 players compete on a single map until only one player or team remains. While the game offers multiple modes, the battle royale format continues to be its most widely played. Its gameplay combines third-person shooting mechanics with a real-time building system, allowing players to construct defensive or strategic structures during combat.

 


Beyond its core gameplay, Fortnite is regularly updated with seasonal changes, new content and limited-time events, often tied to collaborations with major entertainment franchises. These partnerships have helped sustain its popularity, especially among younger audiences.



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WhatsApp adds new 'You' profile tab on iPhones, replaces Settings section

WhatsApp adds new 'You' profile tab on iPhones, replaces Settings section



WhatsApp has reportedly started rolling out an interface change for iPhone users, introducing a new “You” tab in place of the Settings section. According to WABetaInfo, the update shifts focus towards profile access and account identity, while also adding a profile icon in the bottom bar for easier recognition. The rollout is gradual, so not all users may see it yet. Alongside this, WhatsApp is also testing the profile page by adding a default cover photo at the top of the screen in the ‘You’ tab. The cover photo provides a large header that personalises the profile.


New profile tab: What’s it

According to the report, WhatsApp is replacing the current Settings tab with a new section called “You.” The report said that the tab focuses more on user identity and profile details instead of just app settings. The tab is largely the same as Settings but with a new name and layout. Users can tap the profile icon to open account details and manage their settings. It also includes a profile icon that helps users quickly identify which account is in use. 

 

 


The report noted that it is particularly useful as WhatsApp offers multi-account support to some users. The icon works as a visual indicator, making it easier to recognise or switch between accounts.

 


The new profile tab is included in the latest WhatsApp for iOS version available on the App Store. The feature is rolling out widely, but not all users may see it immediately.


Cover photo on profile page


Along with the new tab, WhatsApp is also testing a refreshed profile page layout. Some users may notice a large cover photo at the top of their profile. This acts as a header and gives the profile a more modern look. However, this feature is still limited. Users who can see the cover photo cannot change it yet, as it is currently set to a default image. WhatsApp may allow customisation in future updates.

 

First Published: Mar 18 2026 | 11:38 AM IST



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OPPO Find N6 foldable smartphone with 'Zero-feel crease' unveiled: Details

OPPO Find N6 foldable smartphone with 'Zero-feel crease' unveiled: Details



OPPO has unveiled its latest foldable smartphone, the OPPO Find N6, highlighting a new “Zero-Feel Crease” design aimed at making the inner display appear flatter during use. The new foldable smartphone is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chip and packs a 6,000mAh battery. For imaging, it boasts a Hasselblad Master Camera System, led by the 200MP main camera.


OPPO Find N6: Availability


According to OPPO, the Find N6 will be available in select markets starting March 20, 2026, through official stores, authorised retailers and partner carriers. However, there is no official word yet on its India launch or availability.

 


OPPO Find N6: Details


OPPO said the Find N6 introduces a redesigned hinge and display system aimed at reducing the visibility and feel of the crease typically seen on foldable smartphones. The device uses a second-generation Titanium Flexion Hinge, which the company said reduces hinge height variance and contributes to a flatter inner display. It is paired with what OPPO calls Auto-Smoothing Flex Glass, designed to improve shape recovery and reduce long-term deformation of the screen. The company claims the device has been tested for up to 600,000 folds and has received TÜV Rheinland certifications for durability and crease minimisation.

 


The Find N6 features a 6.62-inch cover display and an 8.12-inch inner display. Both screens support up to 1,800 nits peak brightness, along with high-frequency PWM dimming and low minimum brightness for use in different lighting conditions. The device is offered in two colour options, including a titanium-finished variant and an orange option with gold accents on the hinge.

 


In terms of build, the smartphone carries IP56, IP58 and IP59 ratings for resistance against dust and water. OPPO said the device is designed to withstand splashes as well as high-pressure water exposure.

 


The Find N6 runs on ColorOS 16, which has been optimised for the foldable form factor. It introduces a feature called Free-Flow Window that allows users to run up to four apps simultaneously on the inner display, with adjustable window sizes. The device also supports cross-device features through O+ Connect, enabling file transfer, screen mirroring and remote access with compatible devices.

 


OPPO has also introduced an AI-enabled stylus called the OPPO AI Pen, which supports 4,096 levels of pressure sensitivity and works on both inner and outer displays. The stylus supports features such as note-taking, annotation and AI-based tools for capturing and formatting on-screen content.

 


The smartphone is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chip and is backed by a 6,000mAh battery. It supports 80W wired charging and 50W wireless charging.

 


For imaging, the Find N6 features a triple rear camera setup, including a 200MP primary sensor, a 50MP ultra-wide camera and a 50MP periscope telephoto lens. It also features a 20MP camera each on the inner display and the cover display. OPPO said the system also includes a dedicated colour sensor for improved colour accuracy. The camera system is developed in collaboration with Hasselblad and supports features such as portrait mode, manual controls and cinematic shooting modes. The device also supports 4K video recording at up to 120fps on the main sensor, along with Dolby Vision and log video recording support.


OPPO Find N6: Specifications


  • Inner display: 8.12-inch AMOLED, QXGA+ resolution, up to 120Hz refresh rate, 1800 nits in HBM, Cover Glass

  • Cover display: 6.62-inch AMOLED, FHD+ resolution, up to 120Hz refresh rate, 1800 nits in HBM, Ceramic Guard

  • Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5

  • RAM: 16GB LPDDR5X

  • Storage: 512GB UFS 4.1

  • OS: ColorOS 16

  • Rear camera: 200MP + 50MP ultra-wide + 50MP telephoto

  • Front camera: 20MP on inner display, 20MP on cover display

  • Battery: 6000mAh

  • Charging: 80W wired, 50W wireless

  • Thickness: 8.93mm (folded), 4.21mm (unfolded)

  • Weight: 225g



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'I love what I do': Apple CEO Tim Cook dismisses retirement rumours

'I love what I do': Apple CEO Tim Cook dismisses retirement rumours



Apple CEO Tim Cook on Tuesday dismissed speculation around him stepping down from the top post, saying that he “can’t imagine his life without Apple”.

 


“No, I didn’t say that. I haven’t said that. I love what I do deeply. 28 years ago, I walked into Apple, and I’ve loved every day of it since,” Cook said on the TV show Good Morning America. “We’ve had ups and downs, but the people I work with are so amazing. They bring out the best in me. And hopefully, I can bring out the best in them. And Michael, I can’t imagine life without Apple,” he added.

 
 


Cook’s remarks come ahead of Apple turning 50 on April 1. It also comes amid reports of pressure building on the company’s leadership with high-ranking exits from its artificial intelligence (AI) team.

 


According to a CNBC report, the company lost its AI chief, John Giannandrea, its top lawyer, and a key design executive in a single week in December. Moreover, its senior vice president of hardware technologies, Johny Srouji, told Cook that he wanted to leave soon, reported Bloomberg.

 


The departures intensified scrutiny of CEO Cook’s leadership in the AI era, as concerns mounted over the company’s strategy. LightShed Partners analyst Walter Piecyk told CNBC that Apple risks ceding its AI future to Google. He said that the company is “surrendering AI to Google”, much as it once did with search. Last year, Apple signed a deal with Google to use Gemini to power AI features on the iPhone.

 


Separately, a Financial Times report in November 2025 also said Apple is preparing for Cook to step down as chief executive “as soon as next year”. However, Cook’s latest remarks have dismissed the reports.



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Instagram adds AI voice effects for voice notes in DMs: Step-by-step guide

Instagram adds AI voice effects for voice notes in DMs: Step-by-step guide


Instagram’s AI Voice effects in DMs (Image: Instagram)


Instagram has introduced a new feature that brings AI-powered voice effects to direct messages. According to the company, the update allows users to modify their voice notes with different styles before sending them. Instead of sending plain voice recordings, users can now add creative effects while still keeping the original tone, rhythm and emotion of their voice.


AI voice effects: What the feature is about

According to Instagram, the AI Voice Effects feature is designed to enhance how people communicate through voice notes on Instagram. Users can record a message and then apply different effects that change how their voice sounds. Instagram said that these effects can make the voice appear more playful, stylised or character-like, without distorting the natural flow of speech. 

 

 


Unlike traditional voice filters that may heavily alter audio, Instagram mentioned that the feature focuses on maintaining clarity and expression. This makes the voice note feel natural while still offering a noticeable change in sound.

 

When a voice note is sent with an effect, the receiver can see which one was applied. They also have the option to tap on it and use the same effect in their own reply. The company noted that it brings a slightly more creative element to regular chats, especially in casual conversations. 

 


How to use AI Voice Effects in Instagram DMs

 


  • Open Instagram and go to your Direct Messages

  • Choose an existing chat or start a new one

  • Tap the microphone icon to begin a voice note

  • Tap on the Voice Effects option in the message composer

  • Record your message as usual

  • Preview different effects by selecting them

  • Once you find the effect you like, send the voice note


After sending, the recipients can see the effect used and tap to mimic it in their reply.

 

First Published: Mar 18 2026 | 10:17 AM IST



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Nvidia resumes production of AI chips for sale in China after US approval

Nvidia resumes production of AI chips for sale in China after US approval



Nvidia is restarting manufacturing of its H200 artificial intelligence (AI) chips for sale in China after receiving multiple approvals from the US government and fresh orders from Chinese customers over the past two weeks, the Financial Times reported.

 

 


“We’ve been licensed for many customers in China for the H200. We have received purchase orders from many customers. And we are in the process of restarting our manufacturing,” Huang said, adding that the situation was now “different than it was two weeks ago, our supply chain is getting fired up”. 

 
 


Commenting on the US government’s stance, Huang said US President Donald Trump aims to maintain the country’s leadership in AI technology while ensuring global competitiveness.

 

“President Trump’s intention is that the US should have a leadership position and access to Nvidia’s best technology,” Huang said. “However, he would also like us to compete worldwide and not concede those markets unnecessarily.” 

 


Why did Nvidia halt production earlier? 

 


Nvidia’s efforts to regain access to the Chinese market for advanced AI chips had been ongoing for nearly a year due to Trump’s evolving trade policy towards Beijing.

 


Under a deal with the White House announced in December 2025, Nvidia could sell H200 chips to Chinese customers, provided the company shared 25 per cent of its revenue from those sales with the US government. These chips are a generation behind its most advanced graphics processing units (GPUs), which are used to train AI models.

 


While Nvidia initially restarted production following the deal, it encountered delays due to prolonged US national security reviews of export licences and hesitancy from Chinese authorities to approve imports at scale. This led the company to pause production once again.

 


The company has also faced disruptions related to exports of its H20 processor, a chip specifically designed for the Chinese market. According to the Wall Street Journal, the US Commerce Department halted exports of the H20 in April last year before reversing the decision in August.

 


However, the Chinese government discouraged domestic companies from purchasing the H20. Production of the H20 was eventually halted in late August.

 


The latest approvals could pave the way for Chinese technology giants such as Alibaba and ByteDance to gain access to Nvidia’s AI chips, although regulatory clearance from Chinese authorities is still required for imports.



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