Today in Tech: Flipkart Big Diwali sale announced, Samsung Galaxy S23 gets revamped One UI 6 & more

After a pretty long wait, Flipkart's Big Diwali Sale is just around the corner. If you've been saving up for new tech, this is the time to shell out your cash. The festive season also brings quite a lot of other developments in the tech world — Samsung has released its brand new One UI 6, Google Lens and Search now have expanded capabilities, and there are all new features on Windows 11 with the latest update. So, lets get into all the trending tech news in this edition of today in tech.

Flipkart's much awaited Big Diwali sale is scheduled for November 2, with early access for Flipkart Plus members on November 1. The sale features deals on smartphones, gadgets and all manner of tech products. Some of the notable deals which have been revealed include iPhone 14 as low as Rs. 49,999, and price cuts on the Samsung Galaxy F14, Redmi Note 12 Pro, and Motorola Edge 40, just to name a few. Over the course of the sale, we can expect to see more such lucrative deals and offers on a variety of tech products. So, no matter what you're looking to buy this festive season- a pair of TWS, a smartwatch, or a brand new phone, you've got many deals to check out. Big Diwali Sale is expected to carry on until November 11, offering consumers ample time to make discounted phone purchases.

Google has enhanced its Search and Lens app for students. Users can now receive step-by-step math problem solutions and explanations by taking pictures or typing queries. The 'math solver' feature is available on desktop and coming to mobile. Lens assists with word problems, geometry, and offers 3D models for over 1,000 biology, chemistry, physics, and astronomy topics. Additionally, Lens serves various purposes, from identifying skin issues to translating menus and more.

Samsung is rolling out an Android 14 update for its Galaxy S23 series, including the Galaxy S23, S23+, and S23 Ultra in India and other regions. The update brings a revamped One UI 6 interface, enhancing the quick panel, multitasking, and introducing a new default font. Users will receive a notification to download the update, or they can manually check in the settings app.

Users opting for beta channel updates will receive a 350MB update, while those updating from Android 13-based One UI 5.1 will need a 3GB update. The update is currently available in India, parts of Europe, and the UK, with the US expected to receive it soon. One UI 6 introduces a redesigned quick settings panel, updated default font, revamped emojis, and various other improvements to the user interface and app features.

Microsoft has launched the Windows 11 2023 update (version 23H2), introducing 150+ features, including the generative AI copilot previously limited to Edge. Current Windows 11 22H2 users can manually update via Settings. The update offers one-click background blur in the Photos app, background removal in Paint using generative AI. The highlight is the GPT-4-powered copilot, assisting with tasks like window organization, content drafting, and image editing. Outlook gets an overhaul, supporting multiple accounts and aiding email clarity. The update enhances security with native passkey support and simplifies cloud backups and restores.

OnePlus has revamped its Red Cable Club (RCC) membership system with a new tier called Maestro for the most loyal members, requiring ownership of a OnePlus Open device or at least three OnePlus flagship devices linked to their RCC account. Maestro members receive top-notch rewards and dedicated benefits. All RCC members, regardless of tier, can now enjoy various benefits like complimentary Spotify Premium, dining discounts, and Uber benefits. The RCC program, which has over 21 million members in India, offers exclusive rewards and privileges, strengthening OnePlus' relationship with its community.

Google is introducing Credential Manager to Android devices on November 1, simplifying password management. The tool stores credentials and promotes the use of passkeys, a password alternative, when available. It also works alongside existing password managers and provides multiple options for users with multiple managers installed on their devices. Passkeys are digital credentials for logging into websites and apps without traditional passwords. This approach enhances security and streamlines the login process.

WhatsApp has updated its iOS app, enabling iPhone users to initiate group calls with up to 31 participants, an increase from the previous limit of 15. The feature is part of the iOS 23.21.72 update. While WhatsApp previously supported group calls for up to 32 participants, this update simplifies the process by allowing up to 32 participants to be included right away. The feature is gradually rolling out to users who install the latest update from the App Store.

Sony has resolved PS5 shortages, leading to surplus availability, potentially causing retailer competition. Along with that, Sony has confirmed release dates for wireless audio devices: Pulse Explore wireless earbuds on December 6, and Pulse Elite wireless headphones on February 21, 2024. These devices follow a PS5-themed design and will launch initially in the US and some European countries. Pre-orders start on November 9.

The earbuds cost $199.99, featuring studio-inspired drivers and AI-based noise rejection. The headphones are priced at $149.99, offering a retractable microphone and 30 hours of uninterrupted playback. Both come with a PlayStation Link USB adapter.