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Instagram’s New Custom Icons: A Teen-Only Perk That’s Stirring Debate
Key Takeaways
- Instagram has launched custom app icons, but they’re available only to teen users.
- Teens can choose from six vibrant icon designs, including neon, glass, fire, flowers, and slime.
- Adult users are pushing back, calling the move unfair and ageist, while others see it as a Snapchat-style gimmick.
- Instagram says the goal is to make teen accounts more appealing — part of its broader effort to keep minors safer on the platform.
- The company currently has no plans to expand the feature to adult or paid users.
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YouTube’s New Daily Limit for Shorts: A Smart Move to Curb Endless Scrolling
Key Takeaways
- YouTube now lets users set a daily limit for scrolling Shorts on mobile.
- Once the limit is reached, users will see a prompt saying “scrolling is paused for the day.”
- The feature encourages healthier viewing habits and reduces screen fatigue, especially before bed.
- Users can still override the prompt, but it serves as a gentle nudge to stop.
- The feature is rolling out on mobile devices first, with desktop and TV support coming later.
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Google App on Android to Finally Get Incognito Search Mode
Key Takeaways
- The Google app on Android will soon include an Incognito-style search mode, similar to iOS.
- The feature will appear as a ‘History Off Search’ toggle above the search bar.
- It lets users search privately, with no history or recent activity stored.
- The feature is already spotted in the Google app v16.42.61.sa.arm64 beta.
- Rollout is expected in the coming weeks, aligning Android and iOS app parity.
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JioSaavn Launches Limited-Time Annual Pro Plan with Ad-Free Music and Offline Playback
Key Takeaways
- JioSaavn has introduced a new Annual Pro plan priced at Rs. 399 for one year.
- The plan includes ad-free streaming, high-quality audio, and offline playback.
- Reliance Jio users can set unlimited JioTunes at no additional cost.
- The offer is valid for a limited time and only for users inactive for 12+ months.
- Available across Android, iOS, JioPhone, and web platforms.
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YouTube’s New Likeness Detection Tool to Combat AI Deepfakes
Key Takeaways
- YouTube has launched a new “likeness detection” tool to help creators identify and remove AI-generated deepfakes that use their face or voice.
- The tool, piloted in December 2024, is now being rolled out to creators in the YouTube Partner Program.
- To use the tool, creators must complete an onboarding process that includes ID verification and a video selfie.
- The tool gives creators visibility into AI-generated videos impersonating them, allowing them to request removal or archival.
- YouTube’s initiative marks a major step toward protecting creator identity and digital authenticity.