New Delhi: The total number of broadband subscribers increased from 995.63 million at the end of September to 999.81 million at the end of October, with a monthly growth rate of 0.42 per cent, official data showed on Friday. The private access service providers held 92.08 per cent of the market share in terms of wireless (mobile) subscribers. In the month of October, 15.05 million subscribers submitted their requests for Mobile Number Portability (MNP). The Number of active wireless (mobile) subscribers (on the date of peak VLR) in October was 1,094.28 million, according to the Ministry of Communications. The number of wireline subscribers increased from 46.61 million at the end of September to 46.75 million at the end of October. The net increase in the wireline subscriber base was 0.14 million with a monthly growth rate of 0.30 per cent. The overall wireline tele-density in India slightly increased from 3.287 per cent at the end of September to 3.294 per cent at the end of October. Add Zee News as a Preferred Source Urban and rural wireline tele-density were 8.16 per cent and 0.55 per cent, respectively, as on October 31. The share of urban subscribers, and rural subscribers in total wireline subscribers were 89.36 per cent and 10.64 per cent, respectively, at the end of October. PSU access service providers — BSNL, MTNL, and APSFL together held 20.22 per cent of the wireline market share as on October 31, the data showed. The number of wireless (Mobile + Fixed Wireless Access) subscribers increased from 1,182.32 million at the end of September 2025 to 1,184.62 million at the end of October 2025, thereby registering a monthly growth rate of 0.19 per cent. Total wireless subscription in urban areas increased from 647.47 million on September 30 to 647.82 million on October 31. The subscription in rural areas also increased from 534.85 million to 536.80 million during the same period.

New Delhi: The Indian government has announced a new directive that could significantly change how millions use messaging apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, Signal, Snapchat, ShareChat, JioChat, Arattai, and Josh. As per reports, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has instructed these platforms to ensure their services cannot be accessed unless the user has an active SIM card in their device. This directive is part of the Telecommunication Cybersecurity Amendment Rules, 2025, which, for the first time, place app-based communication services under regulations similar to telecom operators. Under these rules, apps — now officially called Telecommunication Identifier User Entities (TIUEs) must keep a user’s SIM card linked to the app continuously within a 90-day period. For users who prefer accessing these apps through web browsers, an added security step has been introduced. Platforms will now need to automatically log users out every six hours, requiring them to sign in again using a QR code. The DoT says this system will make it harder for criminals to misuse these services remotely, as every session must be tied to an active and verified SIM, as per the reports. Add Zee News as a Preferred Source Officials say the rule aims to close a major gap in how communication apps verify users. At present, most apps only verify a mobile number once — during installation. After that, the app continues working even if the SIM is removed or becomes inactive. According to reports, the Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI) highlighted that this behaviour allows apps to function independently of SIM cards, which creates opportunities for misuse. Cybercriminals, including those operating from outside India, are known to exploit this loophole. Even after changing or deactivating SIM cards, they can continue using these apps, making it extremely difficult for authorities to trace fraud through call records, location logs, or telecom data. The COAI said that making SIM binding mandatory would keep a reliable link between the user, the number, and the device, which could help reduce spam, fraud calls, and financial scams. Similar security checks already exist in other sectors. Banking and UPI apps require strict SIM verification to prevent unauthorised access, while SEBI has proposed linking SIM cards to trading accounts and using facial recognition for added security. Experts, however, are divided on the issue. Some cybersecurity professionals told MediaNama that the move may have limited impact, as scammers can still use forged or borrowed IDs to get new SIM cards. On the other hand, telecom industry representatives argue that mobile numbers remain India’s strongest digital identity and believe the new rules could strengthen cybersecurity and accountability.

Nothing OS 4.0 Update: Nothing has started rolling out the NothingOS 4.0 update, its latest custom skin based on Android 16, for three of its smartphones which includes the Nothing Phone 2, Nothing Phone 2a, and Nothing Phone 2a Plus. The new software brings UI changes, new creative tools and privacy upgrades, along with device-specific firmware versions. Notably, the update officially began on 28 November for the Nothing Phone (2), Nothing Phone (2a) and the newly added Nothing Phone (2a) Plus. Nothing OS 4.0 arrives with different build numbers for each model. The Phone (2) receives build number B4.0-251119-1654, while the Phone (2a) gets B4.0-251120-1747. Meanwhile, the Phone (2a) Plus is updated with build number B4.0-251120-1812. NothingOS 4.0 Update: Features Add Zee News as a Preferred Source The new software update introduces several new features and refinements across the system. Users can now hide apps directly from the home screen, and the app drawer has been improved for smoother navigation. The Nothing app icon has been redesigned with a fresh look, adding to the visual refresh. The camera system receives multiple upgrades, including intensity adjustment, stretch-style filters, longer Motion Photo recordings with audio, and new Nothing-branded watermarks and artistic frames for creators. The camera interface itself has also been revamped with an updated UI and better interactions. Adding further, the update enhances the Glyph lights, search bar, and app drawer behaviour, bringing subtle yet noticeable improvements throughout the system. NothingOS 4.0 Update: How To Install Step 1: Open Settings > System > System updates to confirm there are no pending updates on your device. Step 2: Remember that Nothing OS 4.0 is a major update with a download size of about 3–5GB. Step 3: Ensure your phone has enough free storage space to download and install the update smoothly. Step 4: Charge your device to at least 40% before starting the installation to avoid any interruptions.

Open AI’s ChatGPT Data Breach: OpenAI has reported a major data breach caused by a company connected to one of its data providers. The issue has affected some users and their data. As a result, many ChatGPT users around the world have received unexpected security alerts from OpenAI. Although the notification may seem alarming, OpenAI has clarified that most users are not affected. The breach happened at Mixpanel, a third-party analytics service used by OpenAI to track activity on its API dashboard and not the main ChatGPT product. OpenAI has started investigating the incident and has stopped using the services of the affected company. Notably, the Open AI’s ChatGPT is a big part of its user base and millions are obviously worried if their data/chats have been exposed which may contain confidential and personal content. Add Zee News as a Preferred Source Open AI Data Breach: Names, Emails And More Compromised OpenAI has confirmed that some user information may have been exposed in the recent Mixpanel data breach. The potentially compromised data includes user names, email IDs linked to OpenAI API accounts, and the locations of account holders. Adding further, details such as the operating systems and browsers used to access the accounts, referring websites, and any associated organization or user IDs could also have been affected, raising concerns about privacy and security for API users. (Also Read: Redmi 15C 5G India Launch Date Announced; Check Expected Camera, Battery, Display, Price And Sale Date) OpenAI Takes Action OpenAI has removed Mixpanel from its production services and is directly notifying all affected organizations, admins, and users. The company stresses that no sensitive information such as chat logs, passwords, API keys, payment details or government IDs was compromised. 

Redmi 15C 5G Price In India: Redmi, the sub brand of Xiaomi, is preparing to launch its new budget smartphone called the Redmi 15C 5G in India. The phone will be launched on December 3, 2025, and it will succeed the Redmi 14C 5G, which arrived earlier this year. In some countries, Xiaomi also offers a 4G model of the Redmi 15C, but in India only the 5G version is expected to launch for now. The phone is expected to be offered in 4GB RAM + 128GB, 6GB RAM + 128GB and  8GB RAM + 128GB storage model. It is said to run on Android 15-based HyperOS 2 in India and likely to come in Midnight Black, Dusk Purple and Mint Green colour options. Redmi 15C 5G Specifications (Expected) Add Zee News as a Preferred Source The phone is expected to feature a large 6.9 inch LCD display with HD Plus resolution and a smooth 120Hz refresh rate. It may run on the MediaTek Dimensity 6300 chipset, paired with up to 8GB of LPDDR4x RAM and 128GB of UFS 2.2 storage. On the camera front, the phone could offer a single 50 megapixel rear camera and an 8 megapixel front camera. It is also likely to include a powerful 6,000mAh battery with 33W fast charging support. Adding further, the device carries an IP64 rating for dust and water resistance. (Also Read: Sennheiser HDB 630 Wireless Headphones Launched In India; Check Battery, Weight, Price, Availability And Other Features) Redmi 15C 5G Specifications Price In India And Availability (Expected) It is expected to start at Rs 12,499 for the base model with 4GB RAM and 128GB storage. The 6GB RAM with 128GB storage variant could be priced at Rs 13,999, while the top model with 8GB RAM and 128GB storage might cost Rs 14,999. The smartphone is confirmed to go on sale in India through Amazon and the Xiaomi India online store. 

Sennheiser HDB 630 Wireless Headphones Price In India: Sennheiser has launched its latest audiophile-grade wireless headphones, the HDB 630, in India. These premium headphones are designed for serious listeners rather than casual users. They offer high-resolution audio, advanced tuning tools, and come with a closed-back design. The HDB 630 features leatherette earpads and a lightweight frame with reduced clamping force, making them more comfortable for long listening sessions. Sennheiser also highlights that the earpads are easily replaceable. The wireless headphones come with a crossfeed feature, which is claimed to make older or hard-panned recordings sound more natural and balanced. Sennheiser HDB 630 Wireless Headphones: Features Add Zee News as a Preferred Source The device features a 42mm electrodynamic transducer tuned for a neutral sound profile, offering detailed mids, controlled bass, and extended treble. It is built on the Momentum 4 design. The headphones weigh 311g and support Bluetooth 5.2. They also include a detachable 1.2m analogue cable with a 3.5mm plug and a 1.2m USB-C to USB-C cable. For high-resolution listening, the HDB 630 can deliver audio playback up to 24-bit/96kHz via USB-C, analogue input, or even over Bluetooth when used with the included BTD 700 dongle. The headset also offers a crossfade feature designed to make older or hard-panned recordings sound more natural. On the battery front, it delivers up to 60 hours of playback on a full charge and supports fast charging, with a 10-minute top-up providing up to seven hours of use. Sennheiser says the battery has been tested to endure more than 500 charging cycles. Sennheiser HDB 630 Wireless Headphones Price In India And Availability The wireless headphones are priced at Rs 54,990, but customers can pre-book them for Rs 44,990 with complimentary Accentum Open earbuds worth Rs. 12,990 at no extra cost. Sennheiser will accept pre-bookings in India until December 4 through its official website, Amazon, and select retail stores nationwide. The HDB 630 also comes with a two-year warranty in India.

Noida: Apple on Friday announced that it will open its first retail store in Noida, Uttar Pradesh, on December 11. The new outlet, Apple Noida, will be located inside DLF Mall of India. This will be Apple’s fifth store in India, after Mumbai, Bengaluru, Pune and Delhi. This opening marks another milestone in Apple’s ongoing retail expansion in the country, offering customers new ways to explore Apple products. The barricade for Apple Noida was revealed this morning, adorned with vibrant feathers inspired by India’s national bird – the peacock, a timeless symbol of pride and creativity.  The peacock-inspired launch campaign, first seen at the September openings of Apple Hebbal in Bengaluru and Apple Koregaon Park in Pune, now comes to Noida – continuing to celebrate the bold confidence of a modern India and Apple’s distinctive approach to innovation and experience, the company said in an official statement. Add Zee News as a Preferred Source It further said, “Noida is a city defined by design and ambition — a hub for innovation and original thinking. With the energy and expertise of our store team members, Apple Noida will offer a space where customers can discover, create, and grow with Apple.” At Apple Noida, customers can explore Apple’s latest product lineup, including the iPhone 17 family and the M5-powered iPad Pro and MacBook Pro 14″, experience new features, and receive expert support from specialists and dedicated business teams, the company said. Ahead of the opening, customers can download exclusive Apple Noida wallpapers, enjoy a curated Apple Music Noida playlist, and learn more about the store on Apple’s website. Apple’s retail journey in India began with the launch of its first two stores — Mumbai’s BKC and Delhi’s Saket — in April 2023. In their first year, the two outlets reportedly generated nearly Rs 800 crore in combined revenue, making them among Apple’s best-performing stores worldwide. Interestingly, the smaller Saket store contributed almost 60 per cent of total sales. Apple Noida will be open on Thursday, December 11, at 1 p.m.

Amazon Black Friday Sale 2025: The 2025 Black Friday sale on Amazon, from November 28 to December 1, has brought significant price cuts on many flagship smartphones. Devices from Apple, OnePlus, Samsung, Realme and others are now available at lower prices than their standard retail tags — drawing strong interest from buyers looking for premium devices at reduced costs. Prices After Discount iPhone 17: available at around Rs 80,000 with exchange offers Add Zee News as a Preferred Source iPhone 16: priced at around Rs 62,900 with exchange and bank offers iPhone 15: available at around Rs 50,990–Rs 51,990 (prices may vary by colour) OnePlus 15: available at around Rs 69,499 after applying bank offers Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra: priced at around Rs 84,999 without any additional conditions Realme GT 7: available at around Rs 50,998 with bank offers and exchange iQOO Neo 10R: available at around Rs 23,999 With multiple flagship launches this year, companies seem keen to clear stock before next-generation models arrive. The sale includes bank discounts, exchange bonuses and no-cost EMI offers — all making premium smartphones more accessible. Specifications iPhone 17: Features a 6.3-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display with 120 Hz refresh rate and up to 3000 nits peak brightness. It is powered by Apple’s A19 chipset, offers storage options from 256 GB onwards, and runs iOS 26. Rear cameras consist of dual 48 MP lenses (wide + ultrawide) and there’s support for MagSafe and USB-C fast charging. iPhone 15: Comes with a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display. It runs on the Apple A16 Bionic chip, supports dual SIM (depending on region), and offers wireless charging and USB-C connectivity. Rear cameras include a 48 MP main and a 12 MP ultrawide sensor.  (Also Read: Nothing Phone 3a Lite Launched In India With Glyph Light For Alerts: Check Price, Camera, Storage And Battery) OnePlus 15: Equipped with a 6.78-inch LTPO AMOLED display with high refresh rate (165 Hz) and excellent brightness. It uses the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset, supports up to 16 GB RAM and large storage, and packs a big battery (7300 mAh) with very fast charging. Rear cameras include a triple 50 MP setup. Realme GT 7: Offers a 6.78-inch AMOLED display, MediaTek Dimensity 9400e chipset, and a large 7000 mAh battery with 120 W fast charging. iQOO Neo 10R: A budget-friendly option among the list, it delivers decent performance, 5G connectivity, and adequate battery and display specs for everyday use. Should You Buy Now or Wait? For those looking to upgrade to a new smartphone without paying full retail price, Black Friday 2025 offers one of the better opportunities this year. With discounts and added benefits such as exchange bonuses and bank offers, it could be a good time to buy.

Nothing has launched the Nothing Phone 3a Lite in India. The new handset joins the company’s Phone 3a series and enters the mid-range smartphone segment. The device is powered by MediaTek’s Dimensity 7300 Pro processor and comes with up to 256GB of storage. One of the design changes includes a new Glyph Light for alerts, replacing the company’s earlier Glyph Interface design. Price and Availability Add Zee News as a Preferred Source The Nothing Phone 3a Lite starts at Rs 20,999 for the base variant, which includes 8GB of RAM and 128GB of internal storage. The higher storage option with 256GB is priced at Rs 22,999. Customers will also have access to introductory pricing. With ICICI Bank and OneCard offers, the effective prices are Rs 19,999 for the 128GB model and Rs 21,999 for the 256GB variant. The smartphone comes in three colour options: Black, Blue and White. Nothing has announced that the device will be available for purchase starting December 5. It will be sold through Flipkart, Vijay Sales, Croma and other retail outlets across India. Display and Software The dual-SIM Nothing Phone 3a Lite runs on Nothing OS 3.5, which is based on Android 15. The company has promised three major Android version updates and six years of SMR updates. The handset features a 6.77-inch full-HD+ Flexible AMOLED display with a resolution of 1,080 x 2,392 pixels. It also comes with a 120Hz refresh rate, 3,000 nits peak brightness (HDR), 387 ppi pixel density and 2,160Hz PWM dimming. Hardware and Storage The device is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7300 Pro chipset and includes 8GB of RAM. It supports an additional 8GB of virtual RAM. Users will also be able to expand storage up to 2TB using a microSD card. (Also Read: Tech Showdown: iQOO 15 vs OnePlus 15; Design, Display, Camera, Battery, Processor, And Price Compared: Which Phone Should You Buy?) Camera Details It features a triple rear camera setup. The primary camera is a 50-megapixel sensor with OIS and EIS. It is paired with an 8-megapixel ultra-wide lens offering a 119.5-degree field of view.  On the front, the device comes with a 16-megapixel camera. Video recording capabilities include 4K recording at 30fps and 1080p slow-motion at 120fps. The camera also supports several modes such as Portrait, Night Mode, Ultra XDR and Macro. Battery and Other Features The Nothing Phone 3a Lite is equipped with a 5,000mAh battery with 33W wired fast charging and 5W reverse wired charging. The device includes an in-display fingerprint sensor and carries an IP54 rating for dust and splash resistance. It measures 164×78×8.3mm and weighs 199g. The smartphone also comes with Panda Glass protection on both the front and back panels.

The global gaming community is on high alert as anticipation continues to build for the next part of the Grand Theft Auto franchise. While Grand Theft Auto VI (GTA 6) has earned a reputation as one of the most eagerly awaited video games in history, long delays and multiple release date changes have sparked concern among fans. The frustration comes from the fact that it will be more than 18 years between the launch of Grand Theft Auto V and the release of GTA 6. The previous installment, GTA 5, was released in 2013, and the timeline has been longer than most gamers expected. New Release Date Moves to November 2026 Add Zee News as a Preferred Source Rockstar Games has changed its target release date several times over the past few years. The latest expected launch date for GTA 6 is now November 19, 2026. This pushback has added to the disappointment of fans who are waiting for the next part of the gaming series. Rockstar has already taken more time with GTA 6 than it did for earlier games. The company took about five years to develop Grand Theft Auto V after the release of Grand Theft Auto IV in 2008. (Also Read: Tech Showdown: iQOO 15 vs OnePlus 15; Design, Display, Camera, Battery, Processor, And Price Compared: Which Phone Should You Buy?) Rockstar Controversy Adds to Headlines Recently, news related to Rockstar Games has drawn attention for other reasons. Thirty employees were fired from the company, and the move received criticism from former workers. Some of those affected accused Rockstar of “union-busting,” according to a report by Bloomberg. The company has not released additional comments about the concerns raised by the terminated employees, but the timing of the situation has kept Rockstar in the headlines. Co-Founder Dan Houser Shares Industry Warning Dan Houser, who co-founded Rockstar Games and later left in 2020 to form Absurd Ventures, has also been part of recent discussions. Houser appeared on Channel 4’s Sunday Brunch to promote his new novel, A Better Paradise. During the show, he offered cautionary remarks about gaming trends. He warned that video game companies could become too focused on profit, calling it a “danger” for the industry. Houser noted that commercial art forms sometimes risk losing creativity when money becomes the priority. However, he also stated that there is space in the industry for both creative growth and financial success. According to fans, the continued delays suggest that the company is focusing on the game’s quality and performance.