English Readers
Hindi Readers
Bee-Harming Pesticides Detected in Majority of English Waterways
- Neonicotinoid pesticides were found in 85% of English rivers assessed by the Environment Agency between 2023 and 2024.
- These pesticides, banned in the UK and EU since 2018, were authorized for emergency use on sugar beet crops.
- Neonicotinoids can have lethal and sub-lethal effects on bees, altering their behavior and potentially affecting their genetic makeup.
- Agricultural runoff contributes more to water pollution than sewage in the UK, impacting both bees and aquatic ecosystems.
- The government has reiterated its commitment to prohibit the use of neonicotinoid pesticides that threaten bees and other pollinators.
Vivo X200 Series Now Available in India with Attractive Launch Offers
- On December 19, 2024, Vivo X200 and X200 Pro went on sale in India after their December 12 unveiling, featuring MediaTek Dimensity 9400 chipsets and Zeiss-backed triple cameras.
- The Vivo X200 starts at Rs. 65,999 for 12GB+256GB, while the X200 Pro is priced at Rs. 94,999 for 16GB+512GB, available on Flipkart and Vivo India e-store.
- Launch offers include no-cost EMIs from Rs. 2,750/month, up to 10% cashback, extended warranty, and discounts on accessories like Vivo TWS 3e.
- Both models run on Android 15-based Funtouch OS 15, with the X200 in Cosmos Black and Natural Green, and X200 Pro in Cosmos Black and Titanium Grey.
- Special offers for Jio users include free access to 10 OTT apps for six months, enhancing the overall value proposition of the X200 series.
iPhone 17 Pro Design Rumors: Conflicting Reports on Camera Layout Changes
- In December 2024, rumors emerged about the iPhone 17 series, expected to launch in September 2025, with conflicting reports on potential design changes.
- A Chinese tipster claimed on December 19, 2024, that the iPhone 17 Pro models will retain the camera layout of their predecessors, contradicting earlier leaks.
- Previous leaks in early December 2024 suggested a Google Pixel-like horizontal camera bar for the iPhone 17 series, marking a significant design shift.
- Rumors indicate the iPhone 17 Pro models may feature an aluminum frame instead of titanium, larger camera bumps, and possibly combined volume and Action buttons.
- All iPhone 17 models are expected to have 24MP front cameras, with the Pro models potentially featuring the A19 Pro chip and 12GB RAM.
Kia Unveils Syros SUV in India: A New Contender in the Compact SUV Segment
- On December 19, 2024, Kia India unveiled the Syros SUV, featuring modern design elements inspired by the EV9, with bookings starting January 3, 2025, and deliveries in February 2025.
- The Syros offers six variants and measures 3,995mm in length, 1,800mm in width, and 1,665mm in height, with a 2,550mm wheelbase and 465-liter boot space.
- Interior highlights include a 30-inch panoramic screen, two-spoke steering wheel, and a panoramic sunroof, complemented by features like wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
- Safety features include Level 2 ADAS, six airbags, and a 360-degree camera, while powertrain options comprise a 1.0-liter turbo petrol and a 1.5-liter diesel engine.
- The SUV is available in eight color options and offers multiple transmission choices, including 6-speed MT, 7-speed DCT, and 6-speed torque converter automatic.
OpenAI Launches 1-800-ChatGPT: AI Chatbot Now Accessible via Phone and WhatsApp
- On December 18, 2024, OpenAI introduced 1-800-ChatGPT, allowing users in the US and Canada to call or text ChatGPT without needing a separate account or app.
- Users can dial 1-800-CHATGPT (1-800-242-8478) for direct AI conversations, with 15 minutes of free voice calling per day for US users.
- WhatsApp users in supported countries can text the same number to chat with ChatGPT, making the service more accessible globally.
- The service is designed for text-based interactions on WhatsApp, with advanced features like image generation and personalization not currently available.
- OpenAI emphasizes that ChatGPT will never initiate contact, and users must start conversations by calling or messaging the provided number.
Realme to Launch P3 Ultra and Narzo 80 Ultra by January 2025, 14x 5G Debuts This Week
- Realme plans to launch P3 Ultra and Narzo 80 Ultra by end of January 2025, with the P3 Ultra offering up to 12GB RAM and 256GB storage.
- Narzo 80 Ultra, Realme's first 'Ultra' branded phone in the Narzo lineup, will feature at least 8GB RAM and 128GB storage.
- Realme 14x 5G, launching on December 21, 2024, is expected to be priced under Rs 15,000 with 6GB-8GB RAM and 128GB-256GB storage options.
- The 14x 5G will come in red, black, and gold colors, featuring a blocky chassis with rounded edges and USB-C charging port.
- Full details on pricing, design, and hardware for P3 Ultra and Narzo 80 Ultra are yet to be revealed as of December 2024.