Tech Wrap Jan 26: Snapchat Family Center, Realme Buds Clip launch, Spotify

Snapchat adds new parental controls. Realme to launch Buds Clip on Jan 29. Spotify tests prompted playlists. Windows 11 getting Copilot in Notepad. Google Gemini Music generator. Samsung Walk-a-thon

Snapchat now lets parents track teens' screen time and new friends

 

Snapchat has begun rolling out an update to its Family Center that introduces additional tools aimed at helping parents gain a better understanding of how their teens use the app. The update offers insights into time spent on Snapchat, more detailed information about new friend connections, along with added safety and educational resources. According to Snapchat, the goal is to provide families with clearer visibility into teen activity while continuing to prioritise user privacy.

 

Realme to launch open-ear 'Buds Clip' in India on Jan 29

 

Realme is preparing to launch its clip-style Buds Clip earbuds in India on January 29. Ahead of the official debut, the company has shared key specifications of the upcoming product on the Realme India website. The Realme Buds Clip features an open-ear, clip-on design that sits on the outer ear instead of sealing the ear canal. According to the company, the earbuds will come with 11mm dual-magnet drivers, NextBass audio tuning, and support for 3D spatial audio. The Realme Buds Clip will be offered in Titanium Black and Titanium Gold colour options.

 

 

Spotify tests Prompted Playlist feature for personalised music discovery

 

Spotify is experimenting with a new feature called Prompted Playlist that lets users build playlists by describing their listening preferences in natural language. According to Spotify, rather than choosing from predefined artists, genres, or moods, users can type a custom prompt, after which the service curates a playlist based on their listening habits and ongoing music trends. The feature is currently rolling out in beta to Premium subscribers in the US and Canada, after being tested earlier in New Zealand.

 

Notepad on Windows 11 PCs are getting Copilot-powered AI features: Report

 

Microsoft is reportedly broadening Notepad’s capabilities on Windows 11 by introducing Copilot-powered AI text streaming and improved Markdown formatting to a wider audience. Previously limited to Copilot+ PCs, these features are now said to be rolling out to all compatible Windows 11 devices. The move signals a shift in Microsoft’s approach to its default text editor, expanding its functionality beyond basic plain-text editing while keeping the new tools optional.

 

Google may soon offer built-in AI music generator in Gemini

 

Google appears to be working on an AI-based music generation feature for its Gemini AI platform. According to a report by Android Authority, references related to music generation were found in version 17.2.51.sa.arm64 of the Google app for Android. These findings suggest that Google is testing a dedicated music creation tool that could eventually be integrated alongside Gemini’s existing features, including image generation, video tools, and deep research.

 

Samsung announces month-long Fit India Walk-a-thon 2026 challenge

 

Samsung has announced the Fit India Walk-a-thon ’26, a step-count-based challenge that will take place on the Samsung Health app for users in India. The initiative coincides with Republic Day and is positioned as a personal wellness programme aimed at promoting consistent physical activity.

 

Motorola Signature review: A refined value flagship with standout cameras

 

The Motorola Signature performs well in key areas that matter in everyday use. Its design stands out, featuring an ultra-thin, lightweight build and a fabric finish that makes it comfortable to hold for extended periods without feeling delicate. The display is expansive, smooth, and largely colour-accurate, while the stereo speakers deliver loud, clear, and balanced audio suited for both media consumption and gaming. Performance remains reliable, with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 handling routine tasks and multitasking smoothly, fast charging support, and a camera setup that delivers good daylight results with solid detail and competent telephoto performance. 

Sony releases PS Plus January game catalog for Extra, Premium subscribers

 

Sony has revealed the PlayStation Plus Game Catalog lineup for January for Extra and Premium subscribers. Leading the selection are Resident Evil Village and Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth, joined by Expeditions: A MudRunner Game and the horror title A Quiet Place: The Road Ahead. The refreshed catalog also adds Darkest Dungeon II, Art of Rally, and A Little to the Left, while classic arcade racer Ridge Racer becomes available for PlayStation Plus Premium members. The complete lineup is now accessible to subscribers.

 

Smartphones yet to launch in Jan from Vivo, Redmi, Realme

 

January 2026 has already witnessed several smartphone launches from brands including Motorola, Oppo, Redmi, POCO, Realme, and others. These releases have ranged from flagship devices like the Motorola Signature to updated models in established lineups such as the OPPO Reno 15 series and the Redmi Note 15. However, the month is not over yet, with multiple notable launches still expected. Upcoming devices include the Vivo X200T, the Redmi Note 15 Pro series, and the Realme P4 Power.

 

AI likely to contribute $550 billion to India by 2035 across sectors

 

Artificial Intelligence (AI) could contribute nearly $550 billion to India’s economy by 2035, according to a report from consulting firm PwC. The report highlights that AI is expected to play a significant role in boosting growth across major sectors, including agriculture, healthcare, energy, education, and manufacturing.