OpenAI reportedly picks MediaTek over Qualcomm for its maiden AI smartphone

by Hansraj Agrawal | May 5, 2026 | Technology

OpenAI has reportedly fast-tracked the development of its first artificial intelligence smartphone, which was earlier expected to enter mass production by 2028. TF International Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo said in a post on X that mass production could now begin as early as the first half of 2027.

Last month, Kuo had said that OpenAI was working with chipmakers MediaTek and Qualcomm, along with China-based Luxshare, for its AI-first phone. The latest update suggests that the company may have chosen MediaTek as its semiconductor partner, likely using a customised version of the Dimensity 9600 chip.

What the AI phone could offer

According to Kuo, the device may be powered by a customised MediaTek chip, possibly based on the upcoming Dimensity 9600. The chip could be built on TSMC’s next-generation N2P process and may be introduced in the second half of 2026.

The phone is expected to focus heavily on AI capabilities. One key area is the image signal processor, which may include an improved HDR pipeline to help the device better understand and analyse real-world scenes in real time.

The device could also feature a dual-NPU setup to handle different AI workloads more efficiently. It may use next-generation memory and storage, including LPDDR6 RAM and UFS 5.0, to support faster performance and smoother processing.

On the security side, the phone is expected to include features such as pKVM (protected virtualisation) and inline hashing to improve data protection and system integrity.

Shift towards AI-first interaction

One of the biggest changes could be in how users interact with the device. Instead of opening apps manually, users may be able to describe tasks, with the AI agent handling execution in the background.

The interface may focus on tasks rather than app icons. For instance, users could see updates on bookings, reminders or daily activities, along with progress indicators. Apps may still exist, but could run in the background without direct user input.

The device is also expected to combine cloud-based and on-device AI. This means it may process most tasks locally for faster and more private responses, while relying on cloud systems for more complex operations.

If development stays on track, Kuo estimates shipments could reach around 30 million units across 2027 and 2028, a significant target for a first-generation device.

Why OpenAI is entering smartphones

There is no official confirmation, but Kuo suggested that OpenAI may be aiming to control both hardware and software to deliver a more integrated AI experience.

Currently, tools such as ChatGPT operate within iOS and Android ecosystems, where system limitations can restrict functionality. A dedicated device could allow AI systems to perform tasks more directly.

Kuo also noted that smartphones provide continuous, real-time user data, which can help improve AI context and usefulness. With billions of devices in use globally, smartphones remain the largest distribution platform for AI services.

Broader hardware ambitions

OpenAI is also reportedly exploring other AI-focused hardware products in collaboration with Jony Ive.

Reports suggest its first device could be a palm-sized, screen-less gadget that uses audio and video input to respond to user requests, possibly projecting information onto surfaces. The device is expected to remain always on and interact through a camera, microphone and speaker.

The company is also said to be exploring products such as smart glasses, a digital voice recorder and a wearable AI pin, indicating plans to build a broader ecosystem of AI-first devices.

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OpenAI finalises $10 billion joint venture with PE firms to deploy AI

by Hansraj Agrawal | May 5, 2026 | Technology

By Seth Fiegerman and Preeti Singh

OpenAI and Anthropic PBC are both forming joint ventures with some of the world’s most recognisable financial institutions in a race to drive more adoption of their artificial intelligence tools.

OpenAI has raised more than $4 billion from investors, including TPG Inc., Brookfield Asset Management, Advent and Bain Capital, for a firm focused on helping businesses leverage its AI software, Bloomberg reported on Monday. Within minutes of that news, rival Anthropic announced its partnership with Blackstone Inc., Hellman & Friedman and Goldman Sachs Group Inc. to form a similar company.

Both efforts coincide with the rise of “forward-deployed engineers” — people being aggressively recruited by seemingly every AI model developer to explain to businesses how AI software can improve their operations. Their goal is to accelerate more adoption of the technology that AI companies have spent billions of dollars to create, and are still trying to turn a profit from.

Boosting adoption rates has become an ever more critical task for OpenAI and Anthropic as both are targeting initial public offerings as soon as this year.

OpenAI’s new venture is called The Deployment Company, according to a person with knowledge of the venture who asked not to be identified because the information isn’t yet public. The fundraising values OpenAI’s new company at $10 billion, not including the money, the person said, adding that the firm will be majority-owned and controlled by OpenAI.

Other partners include Dragoneer Investment Group and SoftBank Group Corp., among others, the person said, as well as a mix of consulting firms. Bloomberg News previously reported OpenAI was in discussions for the joint venture.

Spokespeople for OpenAI, TPG and Brookfield declined to comment. Representatives for the other partner companies didn’t respond to requests for comment.

With its own venture, Anthropic said it’s aiming to deploy its flagship Claude AI system into the core operations of a broad group of midsize companies. That venture also received backing from Apollo Global Management Inc., General Atlantic, Leonard Green & Partners, GIC and Sequoia Capital.

Anthropic’s new firm will help integrate AI tools into companies owned by the asset managers backing it, as well as firms not owned by those asset managers.

Both OpenAI and Anthropic have seen particularly strong demand for their AI-powered coding tools, which have sped up programming for software developers. But they’re increasingly pushing into other sectors such as financial services and healthcare to bolster their sales.

The partners for OpenAI’s new joint venture have access to more than 2,000 portfolio companies and clients, according to the person familiar with that business. The aim is to use those relationships to enable more businesses to adopt AI, the person said.

Last month, OpenAI said Chief Operating Officer Brad Lightcap would shift into a new role leading special projects, including overseeing the company’s push to sell software to businesses through the joint venture.

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Double-digit decline likely in India smartphone shipments in CY2026: CMR

by Hansraj Agrawal | May 5, 2026 | Technology

India’s smartphone market is projected to decline 10-12 per cent in shipments in CY2026, according to CyberMedia Research (CMR). The forecast follows Q1 CY2026 data, where the market intelligence firm reported that India’s smartphone shipments declined by 2 per cent year-on-year in the January–March quarter. The period marked one of the weakest quarterly performances in recent years, with the impact uneven across price segments.

The affordable segment was the worst affected, with shipments declining by 46 per cent. This segment is expected to face continued volume pressure, margin compression and cautious consumer demand through the year, CMR said.

Cost pressures and demand slowdown

“India’s smartphone market entered 2026 under clear cost pressure, largely driven by ongoing memory supply constraints. A sharp rise in DRAM and NAND prices has increased device costs, forcing brands to recalibrate pricing across segments. This has resulted in slower upgrade cycles and softer momentum during the quarter,” said Menka Kumari, senior analyst, Industry Intelligence Group, CMR.

“The impact is most pronounced in the value-for-money segment, where price sensitivity remains high. At the same time, the market is undergoing a structural shift. Consumers are becoming more deliberate in their purchase decisions, prioritising tangible value over frequent upgrades,” Kumari added.

Market share and brand performance

According to CMR data, Vivo continued to lead India’s smartphone market with a 21 per cent share, followed by Samsung at 17 per cent, OPPO at 14 per cent and Xiaomi at 12 per cent. Among the top five brands, only Vivo and OPPO recorded year-on-year growth in shipments.

Although not among the top five, Apple registered growth, reaching a 9 per cent shipment share in Q1 CY2026. The iPhone 16 series accounted for 53 per cent of its volumes, while the newer iPhone 17 series contributed 28 per cent.

Samsung recorded a decline in shipments but retained the second position with a 17 per cent market share during the quarter.

Global trends

Globally, Apple and Samsung dominated the list of the top 10 best-selling smartphones, according to Counterpoint Research data for Q1 CY2026. The iPhone 17 led the rankings, accounting for 6 per cent of global unit sales.

Xiaomi also featured, with the Redmi A5 ranking at the bottom of the top 10 list.

Collectively, the top 10 best-selling smartphones accounted for 25 per cent of global shipments, according to Counterpoint.

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iPhone 18 Pro series to iOS 27, big upgrades Apple may introduce this year

by Hansraj Agrawal | May 5, 2026 | Technology

Apple’s iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max, expected to launch in September 2026, could bring some of the biggest hardware changes to the iPhone in recent years. According to a report by 9To5Mac, the upcoming Pro lineup may introduce six key upgrades, including design changes, a new chip, camera improvements and better battery life. Separately, Apple’s first foldable iPhone is also expected to launch around the same time, according to a Bloomberg report.

iPhone 18 Pro series: Six key changes

Smaller Dynamic Island

The overall design is expected to remain similar in size and shape, but with refinements. The Dynamic Island could become smaller as some Face ID components move under the display, reducing the visible cutout. Apple introduced the Dynamic Island with the iPhone 14 Pro series in 2022 and has largely retained it since.

On the back, Apple is reportedly working on a more unified finish by blending glass and aluminium, which could address the two-tone look seen in earlier models. New colour options are also being tested. According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple may introduce a new “Deep Red” finish for the Pro models.

A20 Pro chip

The A20 Pro chip is expected to be a major upgrade. It could be Apple’s first chip built on a 2nm process, along with a new packaging method called WMCM. These changes are expected to improve performance, power efficiency and AI-related tasks compared to the previous generation.

Camera upgrades with more control

Camera improvements are expected to be a key highlight. Apple may introduce a variable aperture main camera, allowing users to control how much of an image stays in focus.

This would let users blur the background, retain some background detail, or keep the entire frame sharp, depending on the use case.

Apple is also expected to improve the telephoto camera with a wider aperture, which could help capture more light and deliver better zoom performance, especially in low-light conditions.

Bigger battery and longer usage

Battery life may improve further. The Pro Max model could become slightly thicker and heavier to accommodate a larger battery. While details for the smaller Pro model remain unclear, Apple may extend similar improvements across both devices.

Simpler camera control

The Camera Control button, introduced with the iPhone 16, may be simplified. While it currently supports touch gestures for zoom, exposure and tone, some users have found it difficult to use beyond basic functions.

Apple may remove capacitive touch input and retain only pressure sensitivity to simplify hardware and improve usability.

New in-house C2 modem

Apple is expected to expand its in-house modem efforts with a new C2 modem in the iPhone 18 Pro models, building on the shift away from Qualcomm.

The upgraded modem is expected to improve power efficiency and may support satellite-based 5G connectivity, enabling better access in areas with limited network coverage.

iOS 27 and AI features

Alongside hardware updates, Apple is expected to expand AI capabilities with iOS 27.

Apple has partnered with Google to integrate a customised version of Gemini AI models into its ecosystem, which is likely to support the next phase of Siri’s development. WWDC 2026 is expected to showcase a more conversational Siri, with improved voice and text responses and deeper integration across apps.

Apple is also reportedly working on a new Siri-powered camera mode that could sit alongside existing Photo and Video options. The company is expected to preview these updates at its Worldwide Developers Conference 2026, scheduled from June 8 to June 12.

Siri mode in the camera app

Apple may introduce a dedicated Siri mode within the camera interface. This mode is expected to replace the standalone Visual Intelligence experience and bring it into the main camera view.

The feature would allow users to point the camera at objects and get real-time information. Users could ask questions, identify objects or locations, and search for more details instantly. The report added that Apple may integrate tools like ChatGPT and reverse image search to provide more context.

With iOS 27, Apple is also expected to expand this functionality. Users may be able to scan food labels to track nutrition or capture contact details directly from what the camera detects. Apple is also said to be redesigning the shutter button for this mode, possibly aligning it with Apple Intelligence branding.

Separately, updates to the Photos app may include new AI tools for editing, expanding and reframing images. These software changes are expected to arrive ahead of the iPhone 18 Pro series launch later this year, which is also likely to bring further camera improvements.

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iOS 26.5 to bring E2E encryption for RCS messages between Apple and Android

by Hansraj Agrawal | May 5, 2026 | Technology

Apple has released iOS 26.5 in Release Candidate preview for developers and public testers. According to a report by MacRumors, in the iOS 26.5 RC build, Apple has confirmed the arrival of end-to-end encrypted RCS messaging (beta) when chatting with Android users via the Messages app. Since this is an RC build, the stable update retaining the same feature may be released next week.

For those unfamiliar, end-to-end encryption in ‌RCS‌ will add a security protection layer in messages exchanged between compatible iOS 26.5 and Android devices. Essentially, the messages will be secured in transit, preventing any third party from accessing or reading them while they are being delivered.

iOS 26.5 release candidate: What’s new

End-to-end encryption RCS: According to the report, the feature is enabled by default and can be managed through a toggle in the Messages section within Settings. Encrypted chats are marked with a small lock icon. Notably, end-to-end encrypted RCS messaging will be tested in beta with iOS 26.5. Its availability depends on supported carriers and will expand gradually, with encryption working only when both sender and receiver are on networks that support the latest RCS standard.

Suggested places in Apple Maps: This update brings the suggested places section in Apple Maps, where localised ads can appear. As per the report, businesses will be able to promote listings within search results and at the top of this section, with placements determined by relevance, user activity, and nearby trends. Notably, these ads will be clearly labelled and designed with privacy safeguards, ensuring that user location data and ad interactions are not linked to individual Apple accounts.

Pride wallpaper: iOS 26.5 will bring a Pride-dedicated iPhone wallpaper, which Apple says features a vibrant, celebratory design honouring LGBTQ+ communities during Pride Month and beyond, with a dynamic layout and customisable colours.

iOS 26.5: Eligible models

iPhone Air

iPhone 17 series: iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone 17 Pro Max,

iPhone 16 series: iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, iPhone 16 Pro Max, iPhone 16e

iPhone 15 series: iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max

iPhone 14 series: iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, iPhone 14 Pro, iPhone 14 Pro Max

iPhone 13 series: iPhone 13, iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 13 Pro, iPhone 13 Pro Max

iPhone 12 series: iPhone 12, iPhone 12 mini, iPhone 12 Pro, iPhone 12 Pro Max

iPhone 11 series: iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro, iPhone 11 Pro Max

iPhone SE (2nd generation and later)

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Instagram explores 'AI creator' tag for accounts posting AI content: Report

by Hansraj Agrawal | May 5, 2026 | Technology

Instagram is reportedly testing a new feature to inform users when content is made using artificial intelligence. According to a report from Engadget, the app is experimenting with an optional “AI creator” label that users can add to their profiles to indicate that their content is created or edited using artificial intelligence. The move comes as AI tools are increasingly used to generate images, videos, and edits that can be difficult to distinguish from real content.

With more such posts appearing across feeds and Reels, Instagram is trying to give users clearer context about what they are seeing. However, the label is not mandatory and many AI-generated posts may still appear without clear identification.

Instagram’s ‘AI creator’ label: What’s it

According to the report, the new label will appear on a creator’s profile and alongside their posts and Reels. It clearly states that the account shares content that has been “generated or modified with AI.” This makes it more direct and noticeable than Instagram’s current “AI info” tags, which only indicate that a post may include AI-generated elements.

By adding the label at the account level, Instagram is trying to give users a broader understanding of a creator’s content style instead of tagging posts one by one.

As noted in the report, the test is part of a broader push by Meta to improve transparency around AI content. As AI tools become easier to access, more creators are using them to make images, videos, and edits that can be difficult to tell apart from real content.

Citing Instagram, the report stated that the new label is meant to “raise the bar on AI transparency.” Simply put, it aims to help users understand when what they are seeing may not be entirely created by humans.

Limitation

One key detail is that creators are not required to use the label — it’s entirely optional. This means many accounts sharing AI-generated content could remain unlabelled. For now, Instagram also relies on “AI info” badges, but these are not always consistent. Meta’s Oversight Board has already pointed out that the company’s current AI labeling system is inconsistent. It has recommended improvements, especially in how AI content is detected and flagged.

What this means for users

Instagram is encouraging creators who frequently use AI tools to adopt the label. According to an in-app message, doing so can help “build trust” with their audience. However, since the feature is voluntary, its effectiveness will depend on how many creators choose to use it. If adoption remains low, users may still struggle to tell what’s real and what’s AI-generated.

As AI content continues to grow and becomes harder to spot, Instagram may eventually need stricter rules. For now, the platform is taking a softer, optional approach instead of enforcing mandatory disclosure.

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