OpenAI brings ChatGPT to Apple CarPlay through iPhones running iOS 26.4

OpenAI brings ChatGPT to Apple CarPlay through iPhones running iOS 26.4


OpenAI has reportedly updated the ChatGPT app on iPhone to support Apple CarPlay. According to a report by 9To5Mac, the update allows iPhone users to access ChatGPT directly through CarPlay for the first time. This development comes shortly after Apple introduced support for voice-based AI apps with the iOS 26.4 update. 


As per the report, the CarPlay version of ChatGPT is designed entirely around voice interaction, in line with Apple’s safety-focused guidelines. Users can speak to the assistant just as they would on the iPhone app’s voice mode, with no text-based responses displayed on screen. The interface is minimal, offering only basic controls such as an end call button and a mute or unmute toggle, alongside access to previous voice interactions. 

 


 
As per 9To5Mac, Apple’s CarPlay ecosystem restricts apps to specific categories and requires developers to use predefined templates. With iOS 26.4, the company expanded this framework to include “voice-based conversational apps,” enabling services like ChatGPT to integrate into the in-car experience while prioritising hands-free usage. 


The report added that the move aligns with Apple’s requirement that such apps must default to voice as the primary mode of interaction and avoid visual clutter that could distract drivers. ChatGPT is among the first major AI platforms to adopt this new category. 


The feature is reportedly available through the latest version of the ChatGPT app on iPhone and requires devices to be running iOS 26.4 or newer to function with CarPlay.


OpenAI shelves “Adult Mode” for ChatGPT

In related news, OpenAI has reportedly put its planned “Adult Mode” for ChatGPT on hold indefinitely, shifting focus to core projects like its chatbot ecosystem and Codex, according to the Financial Times. The feature, first announced in October 2025, has faced repeated delays amid concerns from employees and investors over ethical risks, including emotional dependency and reputational impact. The report adds that technical challenges, such as training models for explicit content and sourcing safe datasets, have also contributed to the pause.”



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Tech Wrap Mar 31: Lava Bold N2 Pro, iOS 26.5, Instagram Plus subscription

Tech Wrap Mar 31: Lava Bold N2 Pro, iOS 26.5, Instagram Plus subscription


 


Lava has launched its Bold N2 Pro smartphone in India. According to the company, the device comes with a 6.75-inch HD+ display featuring a 120Hz refresh rate. Powered by the UNISOC T7250 octa-core processor, the smartphone packs a 5,000mAh battery. For context, the Lava Bold N2 was launched last month.

 

 


Apple has released the first developer beta of iOS 26.5 for eligible iPhones, bringing a mix of small feature updates and some background improvements. According to a report by 9To5Mac, the update reportedly doesn’t include the anticipated Siri upgrades, but it introduces tweaks across Apple Maps, messaging, App Store billing, and more. The build (23F5043g) is currently limited to developers, with a public beta expected soon.

 
 

 


Meta has reportedly started testing a new premium subscription plan on Instagram in select countries. According to a report by TechCrunch, the new plan, called Instagram Plus, offers a set of additional features that are not available on the standard version of the app. This includes the ability to view someone’s Story without them knowing, among others.

 

 


Vivo has launched the Vivo X300 Ultra and Vivo X300s in China, expanding its X300 lineup with two imaging-focused flagship smartphones. The X300 Ultra stands out as the first smartphone to feature dual 200MP cameras—one serving as the primary sensor and the other dedicated to periscope zoom—while the X300s adopts a more standard camera configuration. Both devices have been developed in collaboration with Zeiss. The Vivo X300 lineup now comprises X300, X300 Pro, X300 Ultra, and X300s.

 

 


Sony has announced that it is temporarily suspending orders for a large portion of its memory card lineup, citing ongoing global shortages of semiconductor memory. The move affects both professional-grade CFexpress cards and consumer SD cards, and will remain in place until supply conditions improve.

 

 


OPPO has announced the global launch date for its upcoming flagship smartphone, the OPPO Find X9 Ultra. The Chinese smartphone maker, in a post on X, announced that the OPPO Find X9 Ultra will be launched on April 21. As per earlier reports, it is possible that the OPPO Find X9s Pro may also launch alongside the Ultra variant. Earlier, OPPO Chief Product Officer Pete Lau confirmed that the Find X9 Ultra will boast a 50MP 10x optical telephoto camera.

 

 


Google’s anticipated Pixel 11 may feature an all-black camera bar on the back. According to a report by Android Headlines, CAD renders of the smartphone suggest that it will not use the body colour around the LED flash, as seen on the Pixel 10. Additionally, the report suggests that the smartphone may also feature slimmer bezels.

 

 


In March, Apple launched a wide range of new products across iPhones, iPads, Macs, and more. With these launches, Apple discontinued several older devices. While many of these products were replaced by newer models, such as the iPhone 16e being succeeded by the new iPhone 17e, a few removals stand out because they mark the end of entire product lines. This includes the likes of the Mac Pro and Pro Display XDR.

 

 


Apple is reportedly planning to reduce the size of the camera island cutout on its upcoming iPhone 18 Pro models. According to a report by GSMArena, the company may begin shifting some Face ID components beneath the display, which could allow for a smaller Dynamic Island cutout compared to current iPhone models.

 

 


April is shaping up to be a busy month for smartphone launches, with several brands confirming new devices across different segments. Companies like Realme, Vivo, OnePlus, and OPPO are all set to introduce new smartphones this month. The lineup includes devices such as the Realme 16 5G, Vivo V70 FE, Redmi Note 15 SE, OnePlus Nord 6, and ultra-flagship models such as the OPPO Find X9 Ultra.

 

 


After outlining the “advanced flow” for sideloading earlier this month, Google has now opened up the Android developer verification process to app developers. The company has begun rolling out the verification system across both the Play Console and the new Android Developer Console, which is meant for developers distributing apps outside the Play Store.



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Tech Wrap Mar 31: Lava Bold N2 Pro, iOS 26.5, Instagram Plus subscription

Tech Wrap Mar 31: Lava Bold N2 Pro, iOS 26.5, Instagram Plus subscription


 


Lava has launched its Bold N2 Pro smartphone in India. According to the company, the device comes with a 6.75-inch HD+ display featuring a 120Hz refresh rate. Powered by the UNISOC T7250 octa-core processor, the smartphone packs a 5,000mAh battery. For context, the Lava Bold N2 was launched last month.

 

 


Apple has released the first developer beta of iOS 26.5 for eligible iPhones, bringing a mix of small feature updates and some background improvements. According to a report by 9To5Mac, the update reportedly doesn’t include the anticipated Siri upgrades, but it introduces tweaks across Apple Maps, messaging, App Store billing, and more. The build (23F5043g) is currently limited to developers, with a public beta expected soon.

 
 

 


Meta has reportedly started testing a new premium subscription plan on Instagram in select countries. According to a report by TechCrunch, the new plan, called Instagram Plus, offers a set of additional features that are not available on the standard version of the app. This includes the ability to view someone’s Story without them knowing, among others.

 

 


Vivo has launched the Vivo X300 Ultra and Vivo X300s in China, expanding its X300 lineup with two imaging-focused flagship smartphones. The X300 Ultra stands out as the first smartphone to feature dual 200MP cameras—one serving as the primary sensor and the other dedicated to periscope zoom—while the X300s adopts a more standard camera configuration. Both devices have been developed in collaboration with Zeiss. The Vivo X300 lineup now comprises X300, X300 Pro, X300 Ultra, and X300s.

 

 


Sony has announced that it is temporarily suspending orders for a large portion of its memory card lineup, citing ongoing global shortages of semiconductor memory. The move affects both professional-grade CFexpress cards and consumer SD cards, and will remain in place until supply conditions improve.

 

 


OPPO has announced the global launch date for its upcoming flagship smartphone, the OPPO Find X9 Ultra. The Chinese smartphone maker, in a post on X, announced that the OPPO Find X9 Ultra will be launched on April 21. As per earlier reports, it is possible that the OPPO Find X9s Pro may also launch alongside the Ultra variant. Earlier, OPPO Chief Product Officer Pete Lau confirmed that the Find X9 Ultra will boast a 50MP 10x optical telephoto camera.

 

 


Google’s anticipated Pixel 11 may feature an all-black camera bar on the back. According to a report by Android Headlines, CAD renders of the smartphone suggest that it will not use the body colour around the LED flash, as seen on the Pixel 10. Additionally, the report suggests that the smartphone may also feature slimmer bezels.

 

 


In March, Apple launched a wide range of new products across iPhones, iPads, Macs, and more. With these launches, Apple discontinued several older devices. While many of these products were replaced by newer models, such as the iPhone 16e being succeeded by the new iPhone 17e, a few removals stand out because they mark the end of entire product lines. This includes the likes of the Mac Pro and Pro Display XDR.

 

 


Apple is reportedly planning to reduce the size of the camera island cutout on its upcoming iPhone 18 Pro models. According to a report by GSMArena, the company may begin shifting some Face ID components beneath the display, which could allow for a smaller Dynamic Island cutout compared to current iPhone models.

 

 


April is shaping up to be a busy month for smartphone launches, with several brands confirming new devices across different segments. Companies like Realme, Vivo, OnePlus, and OPPO are all set to introduce new smartphones this month. The lineup includes devices such as the Realme 16 5G, Vivo V70 FE, Redmi Note 15 SE, OnePlus Nord 6, and ultra-flagship models such as the OPPO Find X9 Ultra.

 

 


After outlining the “advanced flow” for sideloading earlier this month, Google has now opened up the Android developer verification process to app developers. The company has begun rolling out the verification system across both the Play Console and the new Android Developer Console, which is meant for developers distributing apps outside the Play Store.



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Google kicks off Android developer verification process, shares timeline

Google kicks off Android developer verification process, shares timeline



After outlining the “advanced flow” for sideloading earlier this month, Google has now opened up the Android developer verification process to app developers. The company has begun rolling out the verification system across both the Play Console and the new Android Developer Console, which is meant for developers distributing apps outside the Play Store.

 


Google said the rollout will take place in phases and outlined the following schedule for the advanced sideloading flow:


  • April 2026: Users will begin to see the Android Developer Verifier within Google System Services settings.

  • June 2026: Early access phase begins with limited distribution accounts for students and hobbyists.

  • August 2026: Limited distribution accounts will expand globally; advanced flow for power users will also roll out globally.

  • September 30, 2026: Apps will need to be registered by verified developers to be installed or updated on certified Android devices in Brazil, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand. Unregistered apps can still be sideloaded using ADB or the advanced flow.

  • 2027 and beyond: The requirement will be rolled out globally.

 


What is Google’s new system for sideloading all about


Earlier this month, Google detailed a new system that will let Android users install apps from unverified developers while introducing added safeguards to limit scam-related risks. The company said the update brings an “advanced flow” that allows users to bypass existing verification rules, which were originally put in place to curb malware, fraud, and misuse of data on certified Android devices.

 


According to Google, the approach is aimed at maintaining a balance between openness and security, especially for users who prefer sideloading apps outside official platforms. The company noted that the updated process includes extra checks designed to reduce the chances of users being tricked or pressured into installing harmful apps, a method often seen in scams.


Android sideloading: How the advanced flow works


Google said the advanced flow is a one-time setup that enables users to install apps from unverified developers, but only after completing a series of steps. It starts with turning on developer mode in system settings, a measure aimed at preventing accidental or one-tap bypasses often exploited in scams.

 


Users are then asked to confirm that they are not being instructed by another person while turning off security protections. This is followed by a device restart and reauthentication, which Google said is meant to break any active remote access sessions or calls that could be used by attackers.

 


After this, a mandatory one-day waiting period is enforced. Once the wait is over, users must verify their identity using biometrics such as fingerprint or face unlock, or a device PIN. Google said this delay is intended to counter urgency-based scam tactics by giving users time to reconsider.


Once all steps are completed, users can proceed to install apps from unverified sources, either for a limited seven-day window or on an ongoing basis. Even then, the system will continue to display warnings, though users can choose to move ahead with the installation.

 



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OPPO Find X9 Ultra to OnePlus Nord 6: Check smartphones launching in April

OPPO Find X9 Ultra to OnePlus Nord 6: Check smartphones launching in April


April is shaping up to be a busy month for smartphone launches, with several brands confirming new devices across different segments. Companies like Realme, Vivo, OnePlus, and OPPO are all set to introduce new smartphones this month. The lineup includes devices such as the Realme 16 5G, Vivo V70 FE, Redmi Note 15 SE, OnePlus Nord 6, and ultra-flagship models such as the OPPO Find X9 Ultra.


Smartphones to launch in April 


Realme 16 5G


Realme 16 5G is set to launch in India on April 2. The company has confirmed key details about its upcoming smartphone, revealing that it will feature a rear “selfie mirror” to make it easier for users to take selfies using the main camera. The device will pack a 7,000mAh battery, which the company claims can deliver up to two days of usage on a single charge. In terms of cameras, the Realme 16 5G will include a 50MP rear sensor supported by AI-based imaging features aimed at enhancing photo quality. On the front, the phone will offer a 50MP selfie camera. The smartphone will sport a 6.57-inch display and carry an IP69 rating for resistance against dust and water.

 
 


Realme 16 5G: Expected specifications


  • Display: 6.57-inch display

  • Rear Camera: 50MP main camera 

  • Front Camera: 50MP selfie camera

  • Battery: 7,000mAh (up to 2 days claimed)

  • Charging: 60W fast charging

  • Design: “Gleaming Wings” gradient finish 

  • Durability: IP69 dust and water resistance

  • Software/AI Features: AI Edit Genie, AI Instant Clip

  • Camera Modes: Vibe Master Mode with Lively, Festival, and Ceremony presets


Vivo V70 FE


Vivo has confirmed that it will launch the Vivo V70 FE in India on April 2. The company has revealed several key details ahead of the announcement. The phone will sport a 6.83-inch OLED display with HDR10+ support, a 120Hz refresh rate, 1.5K resolution, and peak brightness of up to 1,900 nits. In addition, the device will introduce Vivo’s “darkness glow” technology on the back panel, which softly glows in low light after exposure to UV or sunlight, giving it a distinct look in darker environments.

 


The smartphone will pack a 7,000mAh battery and be available in two colour options: Northern Lights Purple and Monsoon Blue. On the camera front, the Vivo V70 FE will include a 200MP primary sensor with OIS, an 8MP ultrawide lens, and a 50MP front camera for selfies. It will also come with IP68 and IP69 ratings for dust and water resistance.

 


Vivo V70 FE: Expected specifications 


  • Display: 6.83-inch 1.5K AMOLED, 120Hz refresh rate, 1900nits of peak brightness

  • Processor: MediaTek Dimensity 7360-Turbo

  • RAM: Up to 12GB RAM

  • Storage: Up to 512GB storage

  • Rear Camera: 200MP primary (OIS) + 8MP ultrawide

  • Front Camera: 50MP selfie camera

  • Battery: 7,000mAh

  • Charging: 90W fast charging

  • Colours: Monsoon Blue (glow effect), Northern Lights Purple

  • Protection: IP68/IP69 rating


Redmi Note 15 SE

Redmi has announced the launch of the Redmi Note 15 Special Edition (SE) in India on April 2. The smartphone is expected to carry the same specifications as the standard Note 15 but in new colours, featuring a faux-leather back with a gold-finished frame. The new colours include Crimson Red, Frosted White, and Carbon Black.

 


Redmi Note 15 5G:  Specifications


  • Display: 6.77-inch curved AMOLED, 120Hz refresh rate, 3,200 nits peak brightness

  • Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 6 Gen 3

  • RAM: 8GB

  • Storage: 256GB

  • Rear camera: 108MP main camera + 8MP ultra-wide 

  • Front camera: 20MP 

  • Battery: 5,520mAh

  • Charging: 45W wired 

  • Protection: IP66, MIL-STD810

  • Software: HyperOS 2 based on Android 15


OnePlus Nord 6


OnePlus has revealed that the upcoming Nord 6 will be powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 chip. As per the company, it will arrive with support for 165 FPS gameplay on Battlegrounds Mobile India (BGMI). The smartphone will come with a “Touch Reflex” chip and a six-axis console controller gyro. For Wi-Fi connectivity, the OnePlus Nord 6 will feature a G2 Wi-Fi chip. The smartphone will pack a 9,000mAh battery and will arrive in three colour options: Silver, Green, and Black.

 


OnePlus Turbo 6: Expected specifications


  • Display: 6.78 inch, FHD+, refresh rate up to 165Hz, 1800 nits peak brightness

  • Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8s Gen 4

  • RAM: 12GB, 16GB LPDDR5X

  • Storage: 256GB, 512GB UFS 4.1

  • OS: Android 16-based ColorOS 16

  • Rear camera: 50MP + 2MP

  • Front camera: 16MP

  • Battery: 9000mAh

  • Charging: 80W SuperVOOC Flash Charge, 27W wired reverse charging

  • Durability: IP66, IP68, IP69, IP69K rated


Oppo Find X9 Ultra


OPPO has confirmed that it is set to launch its Find X9 Ultra smartphone on April 21 in regions beyond China. The company has confirmed that the smartphone will feature a camera system co-developed with Hasselblad and will include a 50MP telephoto camera with 10x optical zoom.

 


The OPPO Find X9 Ultra is also expected to launch in India around the same date.

 


OPPO Find X9 Ultra: Expected specifications


  • Display: 6.82-inch AMOLED, 144Hz refresh rate, 1440 × 3120 resolution

  • Processor: Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset

  • RAM: Up to 16GB RAM 

  • Storage: 512GB

  • Rear Camera: 200MP main + 50MP ultra wide + 50MP telephoto

  • Battery: 7,050mAh

  • Charging: 100W wired and 50W wireless

 



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Lava Bold N2 Pro with 5000mAh battery launched at Rs 7,999: Check specs

Lava Bold N2 Pro with 5000mAh battery launched at Rs 7,999: Check specs


Lava Bold N2 Pro (Image: Lava)

Lava has launched its Bold N2 Pro smartphone in India. According to the company, the device comes with a 6.75-inch HD+ display featuring a 120Hz refresh rate. Powered by the UNISOC T7250 octa-core processor, the smartphone packs a 5,000mAh battery. For context, the Lava Bold N2 was launched last month.


Lava Bold N2 Pro: Price and availability 


  • 4GB RAM + 128GB storage: Rs 7,999 

  • Colours: Eclipse Grey and Aurora Gold


The Lava Bold N2 Pro will be available on Flipkart starting April 6. 


Lava Bold N2 Pro: Details


According to the company, the Lava Bold N2 Pro features a 6.75-inch HD+ display with a notch and a 120Hz refresh rate. The smartphone is powered by the UNISOC T7250 chipset paired with 4GB RAM and 128GB internal storage.

 
 


For photography, the device includes a 50MP AI rear camera and an 8MP front camera for selfies and video calls. Lava said that the camera setup is designed for basic everyday photography needs.

 


The smartphone packs a 5,000mAh battery with support for Type-C charging, including 10W charging and 18W charging support. On the durability front, the device comes with an IP54 rating, offering protection against dust and light splashes.

 

In terms of software, Lava is promising one OS upgrade and two years of security updates. Additional features include auto call recording, anonymous call handling, conference calling, and dual SIM 4G support. 

 


Lava Bold N2 Pro: Specifications


  • Display: 6.75-inch HD+ Notch Display, 120Hz Refresh Rate

  • Processor: Octa-core UNISOC T7250

  • RAM: 4GB

  • Storage: 128GB

  • Rear camera: 50MP AI Camera

  • Front Camera: 8MP Selfie Camera

  • Battery: 5000mAh

  • Charging: 10W Charging (18W Fast Charging Support), Type-C Port

  • Durability: IP54 Rated (Dust and Water Resistant)

  • SIM: Dual SIM (4G+4G), Nano+Nano

 

First Published: Mar 31 2026 | 3:13 PM IST



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