Author: gadgetts

ChatGPT App Store explained: features, functionality, and use cases

With little fanfare, OpenAI has made a significant advancement in ChatGPT’s development. We can now find, install, and utilize tools that increase the assistant’s functionality straight from ChatGPT’s interface thanks to the addition of a new app directory. We’ll soon see a lot more apps made especially for the chatbot as this new functionality coincides with the release of its SDK for developers.

Sam Altman had been hinting at the company’s desire to provide “all the things we would expect from a complete platform” for a few weeks. The introduction of the App Store demonstrates that ChatGPT is much more than just a text or image generator; it now enables us to engage with our apps while staying in the chat.

An app directory directly inside ChatGPT

Up until recently, ChatGPT provided us with the so-called connectors, which gave us access to third-party services like Dropbox and Google Drive. These integrations have now been renamed as apps within ChatGPT by OpenAI, and a directory has been developed that we can access directly at chatgpt.com/apps or through the tools menu.

Spotify, Apple Music, Adobe Photoshop, Zillow, Canva, and DoorDash are just a few of the highlighted apps that we may explore or search for. For instance, we may use the Spotify app to ask ChatGPT to make new playlists and choose music without ever leaving the chat, while DoorDash uses AI to transform grocery lists or recipes into orders that are ready to be placed.

As if that weren’t enough, we can choose these applications from the tools menu or mention them with “-name” to activate them in the middle of a chat.

In a similar vein, OpenAI has begun to display contextual recommendations for certain applications depending on our conversation. Everything is set up so that these elements blend in organically, enhancing rather than interfering with the discourse.

How these tools work and the opportunities they create

These programs operate in a very straightforward manner. When we connect an app, ChatGPT displays its privacy policy and lets us know what information can be shared with the service (especially if we want to log in). Naturally, we can disconnect it at any time, which instantly prevents access to any data.

Developers may now create apps that are entirely native to ChatGPT thanks to the Apps SDK, which is currently in beta. According to OpenAI, the best apps are simple, easy to use, and directly address particular demands in the chat without requiring us to switch between tools. As a result, we will soon be able to plan trips, make presentations, or do our everyday responsibilities while still interacting with ChatGPT.

By doing this, OpenAI converts ChatGPT into a comprehensive platform that translates thoughts and discussions into actions. A tiny adjustment? Perhaps because it hasn’t received much attention in the tech industry, but it’s a significant move. There is a significant difference when it comes to utilizing specific programs, where we may eventually choose the ease of a command or request over navigating an interface, as well as when it comes to using the chat, where we get many new possibilities.

With ChatGPT’s App Store, we’re looking at an assistant that transforms from a text or image generator into an interactive operations hub that can link to our services and apps in the most seamless and natural way. This is a new way to engage with technology.

December 19, 2025
New teaser suggests Xiaomi 17 Ultra debut as early as next week

The Xiaomi 17 series was formally introduced by Xiaomi not too long ago. The business isn’t finished yet, though. If you have been keeping up with the rumors, the Xiaomi 17 Ultra is the final model. We may now know when the Xiaomi 17 Ultra will launch, due to a teaser image.

Launch schedule for Xiaomi 17 Ultra comes to light

The company has announced that the Xiaomi 17 Ultra will launch next week, based on the teaser image that Abhishek Yadav posted on X. Although the business has not specify the specific launch date, recent reports indicate that it would happen on December 26, 2025.

Additionally, the teaser image validates Xiaomi and Leica’s continued collaboration on the phone’s cameras. The launch date actually makes sense. The FCC certified the Xiaomi 17 Ultra more recently. Since FCC approval is necessary for businesses to sell their goods in the US, it is now one step closer to launch.

What features and upgrades to expect from Xiaomi 17 Ultra

According to current rumors, we can anticipate performance that is comparable to that of the other models. This is due to the likelihood that the Xiaomi 17 Ultra will employ the same Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset. Nonetheless, one of the phone’s distinguishing features is its cameras.

According to what we’ve heard, the Ultra model may have a quad camera configuration on the back. It appears that this will include three 50MP sensors, followed by a 200MP sensor for the main camera. The phone may come in two versions, according to speculations. Although the cameras are identical, one version may have new, cutting-edge camera intelligence, while the other will be more “normal.”

Additionally, the Ultra will forgo the rear display—which is, to be honest, somewhat of a novelty—in favor of improved cameras. Pricing has not yet been announced. However, if Xiaomi maintains the Xiaomi 15 Ultra’s pricing, we should expect to pay between $900 and $1,000.

December 19, 2025
POCO X8 Pro #leak suggest a massive battery similar to Redmi Turbo 5

I never get tired of looking at Xiaomi phones. They have foldables, enormous one-inch Sony sensors that produce images with remarkable depth, and now leaks of the POCO X8 Pro point to a phone that might feature one of the largest batteries ever in a popular smartphone. The Redmi Turbo 5 will soon be available in China, and there will be some surprises along the road.

Although Xiaomi’s decision to challenge Tesla in the electric vehicle business sounds crazy (I’m also intrigued), the smartphone market is as fascinating. Xiaomi is adopting a different strategy, despite predictions that the average cost of smartphones in the US will rise between 2023 and 2028. Strong performance at a reasonable price could make the POCO X8 Pro stand out. Naturally, there is a catch, just as with anything worthwhile.

According to leaks, Xiaomi is getting ready to release the Redmi Turbo 5 for the Chinese market in November. Around January, the device will be released internationally under the name POCO X8 Pro.

The new model should be close to the Turbo 4’s launch price of CN¥1,999 ($280) for the 12 GB + 256 GB configuration. Even with some new features, I would still wager on a pricing close to $280, which is where Xiaomi usually outperforms the competition.

According to Digital Chat Station, the POCO X8 Pro will include a metal mid-frame, which is a significant improvement above its predecessor’s plastic construction. The phone appears sharper because to the elegant, contemporary punch-hole screen design.

The Redmi Turbo 5 boasts a 6.7-inch AMOLED panel with a sharp pixel density of 446 ppi and a resolution of 1220 x 2712. The 120 Hz refresh rate makes images pop and scrolling seem fluid. The Turbo 5’s 4,000 nits peak brightness, which makes the screen easy to view even in direct sunlight, is what makes it unique. The iPhone 17 Pro Max, in contrast, can reach 3,000 nits outside.

POCO X8 Pro performance

According to Smart Pikachu, MediaTek’s Dimensity 8500 Ultra processor could power the Turbo 5. The 9500e and 8500 chips from MediaTek are anticipated to be released by January. With speeds of up to 3.73 GHz, the 9500e is unique. One Cortex-X925, three Cortex-X4, and four Cortex-A720 cores are mixed together in its CPU. Therefore, the Dimensity 8500 tends toward balance, whilst the 9500e concentrates on raw power. It has eight high-performance cores built on ARM’s new A725 architecture and employs TSMC’s 4nm technology.

The Turbo 5 will join the OPPO Reno 15 Pro, HONOR Power 2, and Realme Neo 8, which are all said to have the same MediaTek chip, if Xiaomi decides to go with the Dimensity 8500 Ultra.

Battery

With the HONOR X70 reaching 8,300 mAh in 2025, smartphone manufacturers have been pushing battery sizes to new limits. Furthermore, it appears that the next breakthrough might be even more significant.

According to a different rumor from Digital Chat Station, Xiaomi intends to include a 9,000 mAh battery in one of its next phones. The Weibo tipster claims that the single-cell silicon battery is prepared for manufacturing.

It’s unknown which model will receive this enormous battery. The 9,000 mAh option may go to a Pro or Pro Max model because some sources indicate a base 7,500 mAh version. The stakes are further raised by the fact that the enigmatic phone will feature 100 W fast charging.

However, I don’t think the same battery will be available in areas outside of China for the Redmi Turbo 5 series. Larger silicon-carbon mobile phones often have lower capacity in the US and Europe. Thus, be mindful of your expectations.

Strict regulations are the reason why Apple and Samsung don’t sell large batteries. For example, US government regulations (49 CFR 173.185) limit the size of lithium-ion batteries used in phones to 20 Wh. That explains why I had trouble using the iPhone 15 Pro last week—my battery failed while I was on vacation (thanks to my power bank for getting me to the hotel without any issues).

I’m already figuring out how to get one here if Xiaomi releases the POCO X8 Pro with the same 9,000 mAh battery. Even on my longest days out, I can’t see ever having to worry about running out of battery. It makes me happy to consider carrying a phone that can withstand travel, work, and sporadic browsing sessions. However, if you share my belief that “battery beats slim,” don’t get too enthusiastic just yet because Xiaomi might be cautious outside of China.

December 18, 2025
HONOR WIN series set to launch this December

The release of the new HONOR WIN series dual flagship performance phones in China this month has begun to be hinted at by HONOR. The picture displays a massive metal camera deco with a metal frame and WIN branding.

The HONOR GT series, which debuted in December of last year, is reportedly changing its name to WIN. The top-tier WIN series phone will replace the HONOR GT Pro, which was unveiled earlier this year.

According to sources, the HONOR GT series will include a massive battery of about 8000mAh, 100W fast charging, and Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 and Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 SoCs because the HONOR phones with model numbers AAK-AN00 and AAP-AN00 have obtained 3c certification.

Recently, a picture of the phone appeared, showcasing its huge camera deco and triple back cameras.

The phones are anticipated to have a 50-megapixel large-sensor primary camera, a 6.83-inch 1.5K 120Hz flat screen, full-level water resistance, and a 3D ultrasonic fingerprint reader.

In the upcoming weeks, we should get additional information, including the phone’s launch date.

December 18, 2025
Xiaomi confirms HyperOS bug fix rollout for global models
A number of system problem patches that will be made available through the upcoming HyperOS update for several smartphones and tablets have been officially revealed by Xiaomi. The news was made via the official Xiaomi community page, demonstrating the manufacturer’s dedication to provide its customers reliable software performance. The clock, home screen animations, Google Play services, media audio, and application-related translation problems are among the system services that have been patched in this release.

Confirmed HyperOS bugsfix

A number of functional and localization issues that users have reported will be fixed in these future releases. Xiaomi claims that the following user-submitted problems have already been found and are being fixed:
- Xiaomi 14T: Force close or non-responsive problem in the Clock app
- Xiaomi 14: Smart charging feature not translated into Russian
- Xiaomi Pad 7: Translation problem in Weather app
- Xiaomi Pad 7: Google Play “force close” or “no response” problem
- Xiaomi 15T Pro: Gallery Editor erase tool not functioning properly
- Xiaomi 14 Ultra: Issue with system-level translation
- Redmi Note 14: Odd animation behavior of the desktop (home screen)
- Xiaomi 15: Multimedia sound is not available via speaker or Bluetooth
Affected users will receive an update in a comparatively shorter amount of time because these updates are anticipated to be incorporated in HyperOS incremental builds rather than major version numbers.

Even though there aren’t any serious issues in these bugs, things like media audio problems, Google Play instability, and system app crashes significantly impair functioning. Due to Xiaomi’s identification of these defects, the deployment time has been shortened because these problems have also been tested in their internal environments.

Since these bug patches can vary depending on the location or device type, Xiaomi has not provided a particular timeframe for their deployment. However, the system updater will automatically distribute all of these problem patches to users of these devices once they have been incorporated into the final HyperOS releases.
December 17, 2025
ChatGPT performance jumps by 76% after major improvements

GPT-5.1-Codex-Max, OpenAI’s artificial intelligence model, has shown a significant improvement in performance, reaching 76% in capability evaluations. This development points to a substantial improvement in the model’s comprehension and production of natural language, which may have significant ramifications for a range of applications, including task automation and content production.

ChatGPT sees increased adoption in workplace environments

A number of tests that assess the precision, applicability, and originality of the answers produced by the model demonstrate this improvement, according to the data supplied by the business. The improvement in performance demonstrates OpenAI’s dedication to the ongoing development of technologies that maximize human-machine interaction, enabling users to have richer and more productive experiences.

OpenAI has expressed excitement about these advancements, but it has also cautioned about the cybersecurity concerns associated with using its technology. The business highlights the need to exercise caution regarding the possible abuse of artificial intelligence, which might result in the production of false information or deceptive content. This is a problem for both creators and users of this cutting-edge technology.

These advancements align with the IT industry’s rising interest in applying artificial intelligence to business and creative domains. It is evident that GPT-5.1-Codex-Max may have an impact on the creation and consumption of material, but it also necessitates a careful examination of how to guarantee that these tools are applied morally and responsibly.

December 16, 2025
HyperOS 4 (Android 17) promises major upgrades for mobile gaming

Both Android 17 and Xiaomi HyperOS 4.0 are in development, and it appears that this software update will significantly improve Xiaomi devices’ gaming capabilities. Here is some fresh information that clarifies this issue.

Google has begun investigating the Android 17 operating system. Naturally, it will include significant updates to the new operating system, with perhaps a little more focus on the gaming market this time.

HyperOS 4 aims to redefine mobile gaming

Google will enhance system-level updates and game controller compatibility with Android 17, according to XiaomiTime. To increase smartphone users’ gaming time, it will probably have a gamepad button or be a completely virtual controller.

The 17th build will allow users to remap or alter system buttons and lessen reliance on game-specific settings, in contrast to earlier Android versions that relied on predefined buttons for Xbox controllers.

The most recent Android Canary release makes this evident by displaying strings such as android.permission.CONTROLLER_REMAPPING, which is managed by the flag com.android.hardware.input.controller_remapping.

For a reliable and consistent remapping without the need for external hardware or ADB, keep in mind that this only applies to system-level apps signed with the platform key.

In order to improve the user experience overall, it’s possible that HyperOS 4 (Android 17) will eventually offer the same gaming functionality to Xiaomi smartphones.

Therefore, HyperOS 4.0, which is based on Android 17, can be the ideal upgrade for you if you enjoy playing games with controllers.

December 16, 2025
You can remove Gemini from Google apps — here’s how
Google has gradually incorporated Gemini into all of its products and services, despite having a slower start to the AI space than competitors like OpenAI and Microsoft.

Gemini has been included into nearly every Google tool we use on a daily basis, including Google Docs, Gmail, Drive, and even Google Assistant for Android.

Gemini is an AI, and not everyone feels comfortable using it, even if it is excellent at many things and occasionally even replaces apps on our phones.

Some users are uncomfortable providing their data with Google in apps like Gmail or Google Photos, and not everyone wants Gemini in Google Workspace apps.

If you share my annoyance with Gemini, there is a way to get rid of Gemini from the majority of Google services and apps.

You can manually disable Gemini across many Google apps, but it’s not as easy as it would seem.

Remove Gemini tools from Google Photos

The Ask Photos feature in Google Photos was just introduced.

Recalling information from your images, like a sunset from a trip or even the license plate number of your automobile, looks like a helpful function.

Additionally, Ask Photos has grown to include image editing by allowing you to specify the adjustment you wish to make.

You might not want to give Google access to your photos or associated information, though.

Fortunately, you can simply turn off Google Photos’ Ask Photos and Gemini features directly from the Android app.

How to disable:
1. Open the Google Photos app on your phone.
2. Tap your profile icon in the upper-right corner and select Google Photos settings.
3. Tap Preferences.
4. Tap Gemini features and disable the Use Gemini in photos toggle.
Disable AI Overviews in Google Search

AI Overviews replaced Google Search in recent months.

Google Search has drastically altered in a short amount of time, despite the company’s efforts to improve them by adding more sources and more inline links to reliable websites.

There is a quick and easy method to restore the traditional Google Search experience if you prefer cleaner, more natural results without any AI features or AI Overviews obstructing what you are actually attempting to seek up.

Simply add “-ai” to the end of your Google search the next time you want to avoid all the AI garbage. This eliminates AI Overviews from taking over your screen and yields much cleaner and more conventional Google Search results.

The best part is that this method is compatible with all platforms, including cellphones and PCs.

Remove Gemini features inside Google Chrome

Chrome has been among Google’s services and apps with the slowest Gemini integration.

This is probably due to its enormous user base and Google’s desire to refine its AI features before releasing them in the browser.

However, Google Chrome’s Gemini has begun to roll out. Users in the US who use Chrome in English and are older than eighteen can access this function.

Gemini in Chrome allows you to use gen AI writing tools, search your surfing history in natural language, and ask questions of the chatbot from anywhere in the browser.

Here’s how to turn off Gemini on your computer, though, if you don’t want it to see your browsing history or Chrome data:
1. Open Google Chrome.
2. Click the three-dot menu in the upper-right corner and select Settings.
3. On the left sidebar, select AI innovations.
4. Select History search, powered by AI and Help me write and toggle them off.
Turn off Gemini in Drive, Docs, and other Workspace apps

Integrating Gemini into its Workspace apps has been one of Google’s major initiatives.

Gemini connectivity is available through services like Gmail, Drive, Docs, and others, each of which has a unique feature set.

For instance, you may ask Gemini in Gmail to quickly scan your emails and extract pertinent information. It can assist you in comprehending the contents of a folder in Drive. It can assist you with writing and formatting information in Docs.

However, you can simply turn off all of the smart Gemini features in all of the Workspace apps at once if you don’t want Gemini to interfere with your workflow.
1. Open the Google Drive desktop website (drive.google.com) and click the gear icon (Settings) in the upper-right corner.
2. Select Privacy and then tap Manage Workspace smart feature settings.
3. Toggle Smart features in Google Workspace to off.
It’s important to note that you can also turn off Smart features in other Google products, but doing so will also turn off Gemini in apps like Calendar and Maps.

Even simple AI-powered capabilities like suggested tickets and loyalty cards in the Wallet app, as well as suggestions and answers in the Gemini app, will no longer be available from Google.

You can turn off this feature if you wish to entirely eliminate Gemini across all Google apps. If not, you can proceed by just turning off the first option.
December 15, 2025
Samsung cuts Galaxy S25 FE price to $499, boosting its value appeal

Are you looking for a flagship that is affordable? With its powerful performance, long-lasting battery life, and premium construction, Samsung’s Galaxy S25 FE is one of the most affordable upgrades.

Samsung’s low-cost Galaxy S25 is still available for $499, down from $649, if you’re searching for a tech present for yourself or someone else, especially a new smartphone. At Amazon and Best Buy, that is the second-best deal.

The 256 GB option is also included in the sale, however this only applies to the base model with 128 GB of storage. Right now, it sells for $559, which is $150 less than the typical $709. Jet Black, Navy, White, and Icy Blue hues are offered for both versions.

Samsung Galaxy S25 FE
BIG. BRIGHT. SMOOTH : Enjoy every scroll, swipe and stream on a stunning 6.7” wide display that’s as smooth for scrolling as it is immersive.
A good deal
~~$649.99~~$499.99Amazon

Who is the Samsung Galaxy S25 FE for?

A new model in Samsung’s Fan Edition lineup is the Galaxy S25 FE (hands-on). It is a more reasonably priced variant of the normal Galaxy S25, with certain premium features removed. Nevertheless, because of its exceptional value for money, it continues to be one of the greatest low-cost flagships and is frequently regarded as a flagship killer.

In September, Samsung released the Galaxy S25 FE. With a high-end construction akin to the more expensive versions, the gadget is a good replacement for the Fan Edition from the previous year. It is now easier to hold with one hand because it is thinner and lighter than previously. Additionally, it has an IP68 classification for water and dust resistance, providing total ingress protection.

The phone’s 6.7-inch AMOLED screen has a maximum brightness of 1,900 nits. It is still among the top panels, despite not being as bright as the Galaxy S25. For crisper video calls, a new 12 MP front-facing camera is positioned in a notch. A well-known 50 MP camera is accompanied on the rear by a 12 MP ultrawide and an 8 MP telephoto. In daylight, this adaptable configuration produces crisp images with realistic colors.

The new Exynos 2400 has a somewhat quicker inside than the Exynos 2400e from the previous year. Even though it lags behind flagship mobile CPUs, it can handle demanding games and perform daily duties with ease and more than enough power.

Additionally, Samsung raised the battery’s capacity to 4,900 mAh. The gadget has a long battery life—more than a day. Additionally, charging is considerably quicker—it takes less than an hour to replenish at 45 watts. Included is wireless charging, which is uncommon at this price point.

Samsung Galaxy S25 FE
BIG. BRIGHT. SMOOTH : Enjoy every scroll, swipe and stream on a stunning 6.7” wide display that’s as smooth for scrolling as it is immersive.
A good deal
~~$649.99~~$499.99Amazon

December 15, 2025
DroidLock ransomware targets Android devices to take full control

The fact that sophisticated and all-encompassing malware like DroidLock is spreading to Android devices is concerning.

The amount of time we spend on our phones can be frightening. Our social life, banking details, calendar appointments, emails, messages, pictures, and more. This implies that a person who has access to your phone can discover a lot about you.

DroidLock ransomware explained: infection methods and impact

According to a Zimperium research, DroidLock ransomware uses a different strategy than conventional ransomware, which encrypts your files. Phishing websites that pose as trustworthy brands or telecom companies’ authentic apps are how the infection propagates. At the moment, it seems to primarily target people who speak Spanish. After installation, the dropper software asks for Device Admin and Accessibility Services rights, giving hackers total control over your device.

DroidLock ransomware concentrates on screen overlays and admin abuse rather than locking your data like regular ransomware. Attackers can erase your data, lock your screen, alter your PIN, or even use a VNC remote control to spy on you. Victims receive overlays threatening irreversible data loss and requesting a ransom payment via email within 24 hours.

The software also monitors your screen and steals credentials from banking apps in order to obtain private data, such as one-time passwords. Your phone can be turned into a spying tool by hackers who can remotely stop calls, spy through your camera, or do a factory reset.

How to protect yourself from DroidLock

The good news is that you can take precautions to keep yourself safe. Initially, only download programs from the Google Play Store. Check developer reviews and thoroughly evaluate the permissions being requested before installing any app. Any app asking for authorization to use the Accessibility Service should be particularly suspicious. This is due to the fact that apps have a great deal of influence over your device thanks to Accessibility Service permissions.

Next, make sure your Android operating system is kept up to date because security patches are included in more recent versions. Usually, these security patches close holes and repair problems that malware could exploit.

Finally, never download APKs from unreliable sources and refrain from clicking on dubious links received via email or chat apps. Because compromised devices can intercept corporate OTPs or erase work data, the issue is considerably more severe for enterprises. These procedures are a good and rather simple place to start, even though they might not provide 100% protection against malware.

December 15, 2025