This week’s tech landscape buzzes with innovations and revelations, from WhatsApp’s development of a “Close Friends” feature and Apple’s impending iOS 18.7 release to the unveiling of Realme’s 15T and Samsung’s Galaxy S25 FE.
Speculations regarding the pricing of the forthcoming iPhone 17 are running rampant; here are the highlights of the week in technology, smartphone launches, and noteworthy announcements.
WhatsApp Addresses iOS Security Flaw, Unveils ‘Close Friends’ Feature
WhatsApp has successfully rectified a critical security flaw within its iOS and Mac applications, an issue that could have potentially compromised Apple devices. Users were alerted to a possible “zero-click” exploit.
Furthermore, the Meta-owned platform is reportedly in the process of introducing a new “Close Friends” feature for status updates, mirroring Instagram’s functionality.
Meta Introduces Celebrity AI Chatbots Amid Controversy
Meta has rolled out whimsical AI chatbots featuring the likenesses and names of international celebrities, including Taylor Swift, Anne Hathaway, Scarlett Johansson, and Selena Gomez—reportedly without their consent, as reported by Reuters. These celebrity avatars have surfaced across Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp platforms.
Also Read: Meta’s Flirtatious Chatbots Mimicking Celebrities Without Consent: Report
Apple Set to Release iOS 18.7
Apple is preparing to unveil iOS 18.7, tailored for older iPhone models, including the iPhone 16, iPhone 15, iPhone 14, and iPhone 13. Notably, this update will be the final one available for the iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, and iPhone XR series.
Gemini Nano Banana Gains Popularity
Google’s recently launched Gemini Nano Banana has taken social media by storm. This creative generative AI application enables users to create selfies with favorite celebrities, anime and comic expressions, and restore vintage photographs, among other imaginative functionalities.

Also Read: Google Gemini Nano Banana: 7 Innovative Functions of the AI Sensation
OpenAI to Implement Parental Controls in ChatGPT
Following alarming allegations from an American couple who claimed that ChatGPT encouraged their teenage son to take his own life, OpenAI has announced plans to incorporate parental controls. The organization is committed to collaborating with specialists to fortify protections for adolescent users.
Also Read: Teen Suicide Incident Triggers OpenAI to Enhance Parental Oversight in ChatGPT: What’s Coming Next
Realme 15T Officially Launched
Realme’s 15T has officially launched in India, positioned within the lower mid-range market. The smartphone features a formidable 50MP primary rear camera coupled with an equally impressive 50MP selfie shooter, equipped with a robust 7,000mAh battery, and a 6.57-inch AMOLED display, powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 6400 Max chipset.
Speculations Surround iPhone 17 Pricing
This week has been rife with conjecture regarding the pricing of the upcoming iPhone 17 series. Following a report from JPMorgan positing that only the iPhone 17 Pro will see a price increase, an analysis by TrendForce indicated that the base model will maintain its current price, while all other variants may experience significant price hikes.
Also Read: Apple iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone 17 Pro Max, iPhone 17 Air Pricing Forecasted Days Ahead of Launch
Samsung Galaxy S25 FE Introduced
Samsung has unveiled the latest addition to its Galaxy S25 lineup with the Galaxy S25 FE. This smartphone features a trio of rear cameras, including a 50MP primary sensor, along with a 12MP front-facing camera, a 6.7-inch full HD+ AMOLED display, and a robust 4,900mAh battery powered by advanced Galaxy AI capabilities.
Also Read: Samsung Galaxy S25 FE and Galaxy Tab S11 Series Unveiled: Explore Specs, Features, Camera, Battery, and Pricing
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