Category: Special

  • Top Gaming Phones Under Rs. 25,000 in India: iQOO Neo 10R and More

    Top Gaming Phones Under Rs. 25,000 in India: iQOO Neo 10R and More

    The sub-Rs. 25,000 smartphone segment—often considered the lower end of the mid-range—is one of the most exciting spaces in the Indian market. It strikes the right balance between affordability and premium features, making it ideal for both budget-conscious upgraders and first-time smartphone buyers.

    Unlike budget smartphones, mid-rangers in this price bracket come with stylish designs, IP ratings, high-quality cameras, long-lasting batteries, and fast charging support. In 2025, brands like Motorola, Nothing, Vivo, iQOO, Honor, and OnePlus have stepped up their game with compelling devices that challenge the competition.

    Below, we’ve rounded up the best smartphones under Rs. 25,000 in India right now.

    Motorola Edge 60 Fusion – Slim Design Meets Great Cameras

    The Motorola Edge 60 Fusion impresses with its premium curved-edge display, faux leather finish, and slim profile despite housing a 5,500mAh battery.

    • Performance: Smooth for everyday use and mid-level gaming.

    • Cameras: Excellent daylight and low-light stills.

    • Battery: Strong endurance, bundled with a 68W fast charger.

    A strong contender if you want style, performance, and reliable cameras under budget.

    Vivo T4 5G – The Battery Champion

    The Vivo T4 5G stands out for its massive 7,300mAh battery packed into a slim 7.9mm frame that weighs under 200g.

    • Design: Premium quad-curved display, inspired by Vivo’s flagship X-series.

    • Performance: Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 handles daily tasks and light gaming.

    • Cameras: Underwhelming compared to rivals.

    If you need a road warrior phone with unmatched endurance, this is the one.

    iQOO Neo 10R – Gaming Beast Under Rs. 25K

    If gaming is your priority, the iQOO Neo 10R is built for you. Priced just under Rs. 25,000, it features a Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 SoC, making it the most powerful chip in this list.

    • Performance: Handles BGMI, CODM, and Genshin Impact effortlessly.

    • Battery: 6,400mAh with 80W fast charging (1.5 days in loop tests).

    • Cameras: Average, not suited for photography lovers.

    A clear pick for gamers on a budget.

    Nothing Phone 3a – Unique Design, Balanced Performer

    The Nothing Phone 3a carries forward Nothing’s signature transparent, industrial design and adds IP64 dust and water resistance.

    • Performance: Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 with optimized Nothing OS.

    • Cameras: Triple rear setup with a 2X telephoto lens, rare in this segment.

    • Battery: Solid all-round endurance.

    This is the closest to an all-rounder in the sub-25K category.

    Honor 200 – Stylish Camera-Focused Mid-Ranger

    The Honor 200, a trimmed-down version of the 200 Pro, brings stylish looks and a capable camera system.

    • Design: Premium build, but lacks an IP rating.

    • Cameras: Excellent primary + 2.5X telephoto lens for portraits.

    • Battery: 5,200mAh silicon-carbon cell with 100W fast charging.

    • Price: Now available from Rs. 23,999.

    If you value camera performance and premium looks, this is a solid buy.

    OnePlus Nord 4 – Premium Option Slightly Above Budget

    Though priced slightly above Rs. 25,000 (Rs. 26,999), the OnePlus Nord 4 is still worth considering.

    • Design: All-metal unibody, minimalist and unique.

    • Performance: Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3, smooth for heavy apps and games.

    • Cameras: Solid mid-range performance.

    • Battery: 5,500mAh with 100W charger included.

    If you can stretch your budget a little, this remains a flagship-like experience at a mid-range price.

    Final Verdict

    • For gamers: iQOO Neo 10R

    • For design lovers: Nothing Phone 3a / Motorola Edge 60 Fusion

    • For battery life: Vivo T4 5G

    • For cameras: Honor 200

    • For premium feel above budget: OnePlus Nord 4

    The mid-range segment in 2025 offers something for everyone, whether you want raw power, long battery life, or a stylish all-rounder.

  • Jio vs Airtel Music Offer: How to Get Free Apple Music and JioSaavn Pro Subscriptions

    Jio vs Airtel Music Offer: How to Get Free Apple Music and JioSaavn Pro Subscriptions

    Music lovers in India today have no shortage of streaming platforms to choose from. Alongside global giants like Apple Music and Spotify, local players such as JioSaavn have built loyal followings. To sweeten the deal, telecom operators have begun bundling free music subscriptions with their recharge plans — giving users even more incentive to stay or switch.

    Two of the most notable offers right now are JioSaavn Pro with Jio and Apple Music with Airtel. If you’re wondering which is the better pick, here’s a breakdown.

    JioSaavn Pro on Jio vs Apple Music on Airtel: The Offers

    Jio: Users get a 3-month JioSaavn Pro subscription at no extra cost through the MyJio app. This is available for both prepaid and postpaid customers, though existing JioSaavn subscribers can’t claim the offer.

    Airtel: Airtel customers can claim a 6-month Apple Music subscription via the Airtel Thanks app. The offer applies to select recharge plans and works for both prepaid and postpaid users. After the free period, standard charges apply.

    What You Get

    JioSaavn Pro

    • Ad-free music streaming

    • Offline downloads

    • 320kbps high-quality audio (MP3)

    • Unlimited JioTunes for Jio numbers

    Apple Music

    • 100M+ songs with offline access

    • Lossless audio + Spatial Audio with Dolby Atmos

    • Time-synced lyrics & karaoke-like Sing feature

    • Collaborative playlists

    • Exclusive live performances, interviews, and 24×7 radio

    Availability

    • JioSaavn: Android, iOS, iPad, desktop, and web.

    • Apple Music: iPhone, iPad, Mac, Android, smart TVs, gaming consoles, and music.apple.com.

    Pricing After Free Period

    JioSaavn Pro

    • ₹89/month (Individual)

    • ₹49/month (Student)

    • ₹129 (Duo, 2 months)

    • ₹149 (Family, 2 months)

    • ₹5/day option available

    Apple Music

    • ₹99/month (Individual)

    • ₹149/month (Family)

    • ₹59/month (Student)

    Which is Better?

    While both offers add value, Airtel’s Apple Music plan edges out JioSaavn Pro for most users. The reasons:

    • Longer duration: 6 months vs 3 months

    • Better features: Spatial Audio, lossless streaming, karaoke-style Sing

    • Exclusive perks: Live concerts, radio shows, and premium curated content

    That said, JioSaavn still has advantages for Jio users, such as unlimited JioTunes and cheaper post-offer pricing.

    Quick Comparison

    Music Service Benefits
    Apple Music (via Airtel) 6-month duration, superior audio quality, richer features, larger catalogue
    JioSaavn Pro (via Jio) Unlimited JioTunes, cheaper plans, free ad-supported tier

    👉 Verdict: If you want premium features and a longer free trial, go with Apple Music on Airtel. But if you’re a Jio customer who values affordability and JioTunes, JioSaavn Pro still makes sense.

  • Karnataka Congress MLA Arrested in Betting & Money Laundering Case

    Karnataka Congress MLA Arrested in Betting & Money Laundering Case

    The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has arrested Karnataka Congress MLA K C Veerendra in Gangtok, Sikkim, on charges of money laundering linked to a large-scale betting racket. The arrest marks a major setback for the Congress party in Karnataka.

    Arrest Linked to Casino Lease Attempt

    Veerendra, aged 50 and representing the Chitradurga constituency, was allegedly attempting to lease a casino in Gangtok when he was apprehended. The arrest follows months of investigation into a syndicate running online and offline betting operations worth crores.

    Raids Yield Cash, Gold, Silver & Luxury Cars

    ED raids across multiple states resulted in the seizure of assets worth Rs 18 crore:

    • Rs 12 crore in cash, including foreign currency

    • Gold jewellery worth Rs 6 crore

    • Around 10 kg of silver

    • Four luxury vehicles

    Family Members Under Scrutiny

    The investigation has widened to include Veerendra’s family. The ED seized property documents linked to his brother K C Nagaraj and son Prithviraj. Another brother, K C Tippuswami, is suspected of running parts of the betting network from Dubai, adding an international dimension to the case.

    Legal Proceedings Begin

    Veerendra was produced before a Sikkim magistrate, where the ED secured a transit remand to bring him to Bengaluru. He will be presented before a Bengaluru court as the local ED zone continues to probe the high-stakes money laundering and betting scandal.

  • iPhone 17 Price & Specs: India, US, and UAE Market Breakdown

    iPhone 17 Price & Specs: India, US, and UAE Market Breakdown

    Apple is preparing to launch its next-generation iPhone 17 series in 2025, expected to include four models:

    • iPhone 17 (standard model)

    • iPhone 17 Air (slimmer variant)

    • iPhone 17 Pro (premium model)

    • iPhone 17 Pro Max (top-tier flagship)

    For the first time, ProMotion 120Hz displays will be available across the entire lineup, not just the Pro models. Apple typically unveils new iPhones in September, and the iPhone 17 series is anticipated to launch around September 2025, following the trend of the iPhone 16 (September 9, 2024) and iPhone 15 (September 12, 2023).

    Camera Upgrades Across Models

    • All Models: A new 24MP front-facing camera (up from 12MP on the iPhone 16), enabling sharper selfies and better cropping.

    • iPhone 17 Air: Single 48MP rear camera.

    • iPhone 17: Dual-lens setup with Wide + Ultra Wide sensors.

    • iPhone 17 Pro: Triple-camera system with upgraded 48MP sensors.

    • iPhone 17 Pro Max: The first iPhone with three 48MP rear cameras (Wide, Ultra Wide, Tetraprism Telephoto) and rumored support for 8K video recording.

    Design and Display

    • iPhone 17: 6.3-inch display (up from 6.1-inch), same as the iPhone 17 Pro.

    • iPhone 17 Air: Slimmer design with a 6.6-inch panel and a single-lens camera on an elongated bump.

    • iPhone 17 Pro Max: Largest model with a 6.9-inch display.

    • Camera Layout:

      • Standard iPhone 17: Same vertical dual-camera design as its predecessor.

      • Pro and Pro Max: Wider horizontal triple-camera bump with better spacing for lenses, LiDAR, and flash.

    Chipset and Performance

    • Processor: Either the A18 Bionic (from iPhone 16) or a newer A19 chip, both based on TSMC’s 3nm process.

    • RAM:

      • iPhone 17: 8GB RAM

      • iPhone 17 Pro & Pro Max: 12GB RAM

    • Software: Ships with iOS 26, announced at WWDC 2025.

    Prices in India, UAE, and the US

    • India: Starting around ₹79,900, though a price hike is expected.

    • United States: Base model projected at $899.

    • UAE: Starting around AED 3,799.

    Analysts attribute the expected price increases to higher manufacturing costs in China, driven by stricter trade regulations, rising economic pressures, and U.S.–China tensions.

  • Starlink’s India Debut: Everything You Need to Know

    Starlink’s India Debut: Everything You Need to Know

    Starlink, Elon Musk’s satellite-based internet service, is finally gearing up for its official debut in India after receiving government approval. However, the rollout comes with a cap of 2 million connections nationwide, ensuring it doesn’t disrupt the existing telecom ecosystem. Here’s a detailed look at Starlink’s launch timeline, pricing, internet speeds, and what it means for Indian users.

    Starlink Release Date in India

    After multiple delays and regulatory hurdles, Starlink has secured approval to begin operations in India. However, a few critical steps remain, including:

    • Setting up Points of Presence (PoPs)

    • Getting approvals for SATCOM gateways

    • Securing licenses for network equipment

    • Acquiring the required spectrum

    With these processes underway, the official launch is expected in the next quarter, most likely within this year.

    Starlink Price and Subscription Plans

    Starlink’s India pricing will include both a one-time setup fee and monthly subscription charges:

    • Setup Cost: Around ₹30,000 or possibly higher

    • Monthly Plans: Expected to start at around ₹3,300

    Pricing is also likely to vary by location, given India’s diverse geographic and infrastructural challenges.

    Starlink Internet Speed in India

    According to reports, Starlink will deliver speeds between 25 Mbps and 220 Mbps.

    • Urban Areas: These speeds may not outshine the fiber and 5G options already available.

    • Rural Areas: The service is expected to be a game-changer, providing consistent connectivity where traditional networks struggle.

    By offering reliable satellite internet, Starlink could boost rural development, bridging India’s digital divide.

    Final Outlook

    While urban adoption may be limited due to pricing and existing alternatives, Starlink’s real impact will be felt in rural India. With steady speeds and nationwide accessibility, the service could redefine internet connectivity in underserved regions and strengthen India’s digital ecosystem.

  • Bigg Boss 19 Tentative Contestants List: Gaurav Khanna, Baseer Ali, Ashnoor Kaur and More

    Bigg Boss 19 Tentative Contestants List: Gaurav Khanna, Baseer Ali, Ashnoor Kaur and More

    Bigg Boss 19 is gearing up for its grand premiere with excitement building among fans. The new season will once again feature Salman Khan as the host. However, reports suggest his hosting stint will last for three months, after which other Bollywood celebrities may take over.

    Over the years, Bigg Boss has grown into a cultural phenomenon, with every season sparking massive curiosity about its lineup of contestants. While the official list is yet to be announced, several names have surfaced online.

    Tentative Contestants List

    The following celebrities are rumoured to join Bigg Boss Season 19:

    • Gaurav Khanna

    • Nagma Mirajkar

    • Awez Darbar

    • Ashnoor Kaur

    • Zeishan Quadri

    • Baseer Ali

    • Abhishek Bajaj

    • Tanya Mittal

    • Amaal Malik

    • Natalia Janoszek

    • Kunickaa Sadanand

    • Mridul Tiwari

    • Shehbaz Badesha

    What to Expect in Bigg Boss 19

    The upcoming season promises:

    • New twists and experimental elements

    • High-voltage drama and entertainment

    • An intriguing theme around politics and strategy

    A recent promo shared by JioHotstar on Instagram teases the season with the tagline:
    “Naa chalegi koi chaal yaa neeti kyunki iss baar Bigg Boss mein rachi jaayegi anokhi rajneeti.”

    Streaming and Telecast

    • OTT Premiere: Episodes will stream first on JioHotstar

    • TV Telecast: A delayed broadcast will follow on Colors TV

    • Duration: The season is expected to run for five months

  • Big Relief for Commuters: Govt Rolls Out ₹3,000 FASTag Annual Pass

    Big Relief for Commuters: Govt Rolls Out ₹3,000 FASTag Annual Pass

    The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has rolled out a new FASTag-based Annual Pass for private car, jeep, and van users. This initiative, effective August 15, 2025, aims to reduce frequent recharges and simplify toll payments on National Highways (NHs) and National Expressways (NEs).

    Key Features of the Annual Pass

    • Cost: ₹3,000 per year

    • Validity: One year OR 200 crossings (whichever comes first)

    • Coverage: Applicable only to National Highways and National Expressways

    • Crossing Rule: In a closed tolling system, one entry and exit will be counted as a single crossing

    Exclusions

    The scheme does not apply to State Highways or State Expressways. However, the Centre has assured technical support to states willing to adopt a similar model.

    Benefits for Commuters

    Officials say the Annual Pass will particularly benefit:

    • Daily commuters for work or education

    • Users covering short distances frequently

    • Citizens seeking to avoid multiple FASTag recharges

    This move is expected to save time, reduce toll plaza congestion, and promote cashless travel.

    Revised Toll Calculation for Bridges & Tunnels

    In addition to the pass, MoRTH has updated the toll calculation method (effective July 1, 2025):

    • Toll will be calculated as 10x the length of bridges/tunnels added to the highway section, OR

    • 5x the total length of the highway section, whichever is lower

    This reform aims to rationalise toll charges and ensure greater transparency across the network.

    Broader Strategy for FASTag Adoption

    With nearly all highway toll plazas already shifted to electronic collection, the Annual Pass is seen as part of a broader effort to make FASTag-based tolling more user-friendly.

    Official Statement

    Announcing the measures in a Rajya Sabha reply, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari stated that these reforms are designed to streamline toll collection and enhance convenience for non-commercial vehicle owners.

  • Vivo T4 Pro India Launch: Expected Specs, Price & Features Revealed

    Vivo T4 Pro India Launch: Expected Specs, Price & Features Revealed

    The Vivo T4 Pro is set to make its India debut on August 26, 2025. Positioned in the mid-range smartphone segment, it promises a massive 6,500mAh battery and several premium features. The phone is an upgrade to last year’s Vivo T3 Pro.

    Leaked Camera Details

    A dedicated Flipkart microsite has confirmed the triple rear camera setup, which includes:

    • 50MP OIS primary sensor

    • 50MP telephoto periscope lens with 3x optical zoom

    • Third sensor paired with a ring light

    On the front, the Vivo T4 Pro will sport a 32MP selfie camera for photos and video calls.

    Display and Design

    The smartphone will feature a quad-curved AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate. Despite packing a large battery, the device will remain sleek at 7.53mm thickness.

    Performance and AI Features

    Powering the T4 Pro will be the Qualcomm Snapdragon 7 Gen 4 processor, offering an upgrade over its predecessor. The phone is also expected to bring AI-based imaging features for enhanced photography.

    Price and Variants

    The Vivo T4 Pro is expected to be priced between ₹25,000 – ₹30,000 and will be available in Blue and Golden colour options.

    Vivo T3 Pro (Previous Model) – Key Specs Recap

    • Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 7 Gen 3

    • Battery: 5,500mAh

    • Cameras: 50MP main + 16MP selfie

    • Display: 6.77-inch FHD+ AMOLED

    • Storage & RAM: 8GB RAM, up to 256GB storage

    • Launch Price: ₹24,999

  • ‘Genie, Make a Wish’ Coming Soon to Netflix: Kim Woo-bin & Bae Suzy’s New Series

    ‘Genie, Make a Wish’ Coming Soon to Netflix: Kim Woo-bin & Bae Suzy’s New Series

    New Delhi: The much-awaited Korean romantic comedy drama Genie, Make a Wish is all set to premiere on Netflix this year. The makers recently revealed the release date across social media platforms, building excitement among K-drama fans.

    Release Date & Streaming Platform

    Netflix Korea officially announced that Genie, Make a Wish will premiere on October 3, 2025, coinciding with the Chuseok holiday. The announcement was shared with posters featuring Kim Woo-bin and Suzy, captioned:
    “Come, to corruption! Kim Woo-bin and Suzy’s life-and-death fantasy romantic comedy, premiering October 3. On Netflix during the Chuseok holiday.”

    Cast & Crew

    The series stars Kim Woo-bin, Bae Suzy, and Ahn Eun-jin in lead roles, with Steve Sanghyun Noh and Go Gyu-pil in pivotal roles. Directed by Lee Byeong-heon and written by celebrated screenwriter Kim Eun-sook, the show marks the reunion of Kim Woo-bin and Suzy after their popular 2016 drama Uncontrollably Fond.

    Storyline

    According to IMDb, the drama follows a genie named Jinn (played by Kim Woo-bin) who awakens after a thousand years. Ka-young (played by Bae Suzy) becomes his new impassive master, setting the stage for a life-and-death fantasy wrapped in romance and comedy.

    Kim Woo-bin’s Work Front

    Kim Woo-bin has previously impressed audiences with roles in Heirs, Friend 2, Master, and Uncontrollably Fond. Up next, he will appear in Dong-hoon Choi’s comedy-drama series Do-cheong.

    Bae Suzy’s Work Front

    Bae Suzy, who has been part of several hit dramas and films, is best known for Architecture 101, While You Were Sleeping, and Gu Family Book. With Genie, Make a Wish, she once again steps into a charming lead role opposite Kim Woo-bin.

     Fans of K-romance and fantasy dramas can stream Genie, Make a Wish exclusively on Netflix from October 3, 2025.

  • F1 Racing Movie by Joseph Kosinski Now Available on Prime Video India

    F1 Racing Movie by Joseph Kosinski Now Available on Prime Video India

    Hollywood superstar Brad Pitt’s high-octane racing drama F1 is now available for Indian audiences on Prime Video. The film, directed by Top Gun: Maverick filmmaker Joseph Kosinski and produced by veteran producer Jerry Bruckheimer, hit theatres on June 27, 2025, and went on to enjoy a blockbuster run, grossing USD 595.3 million worldwide.

    How to Watch F1 Online in India

    Prime Video users can now rent F1 for ₹499.

    • The rental is valid for 30 days.

    • Once playback begins, viewers have 48 hours to finish the movie.

    Star-Studded Cast

    Alongside Pitt, the film features:

    • Damson Idris as the rookie sensation Joshua Pearce

    • Kerry Condon in a pivotal role

    • Javier Bardem, Kate McKenna, and Tobias Menzies in supporting roles

    The Storyline

    The plot follows a washed-up American driver, Sonny Hayes (Brad Pitt), who is lured back into the world of Formula 1 by his former teammate Reuben Cervantes (Javier Bardem). Reuben now manages the struggling Apex GP team, which has gone two seasons without scoring a single point.

    Their last chance at redemption? Pairing Sonny with a young, hot-headed rookie, Joshua Pearce (Damson Idris), in hopes of turning the team’s fortunes around.

    Box Office Records

    With USD 595.3 million in global collections, F1 has become the highest-grossing film of Brad Pitt’s career, surpassing his previous record with World War Z (USD 540 million).

    Still in Cinemas

    Even after its digital release, F1 continues to run in selected theatres, offering fans the choice between an OTT experience on Prime Video and the thrill of the big screen with IMAX racing action.