Tech Wrap: WhatsApp's new features, Galaxy S20+ BTS

Samsung finally launched its BTS editions of Galaxy S20+ and Galaxy Buds+ in India. Microsoft announced a new initiative to help 25 million people globally.

TikTok has been making headlines ever since the ban on 59 Chinese apps in India. Today TikTok’s CEO shared a message for its employees in India. Spotify also made quite a buzz today with the launch of lyrics and a new subscription plan. Later in the day WhatsApp dropped a package filled with many new features.

So here’s a breakdown of everything tech that made headlines today.

Microsoft skills

Microsoft’s new programme will combine its resources from Linkedin and GitHub to help people acquire digital skills. Microsoft has also announced a $20 million fund in cash grants to help nonprofit companies around the world. Around $5 million of the cash grants will be given to nonprofits run by people of colour in the US.

Galaxy S20+ BTS edition

Samsung opened pre-bookings for the BTS editions of Galaxy S20+ and Galaxy Buds+ in India. Both products will go on sale starting July 10. The BTS editions are purple in colour and carry the K-Pop’s group logo along with heart iconography. Galaxy S20+ and Galaxy Buds+ BTS editions can be pre-booked from the Samsung India website.

TikTok CEO Kevin Mayer message

TikTok is possibly taking the biggest impact as India banned 59 Chinese apps. Other than losing its biggest user base, the future of TikTok employees in India is also unsure. TikTok CEO Kevin Mayer wrote a message talking about how the app has empowered millions of people in India. He reiterated the company’s stand on abiding with privacy laws and rules.

Spotify lyrics, Premium Duo

Spotify finally launched lyrics on its platform and in 55 markets. In India real-time lyrics are gradually rolling out and it has started appearing on select songs. Spotify also launched its ‘Premium Duo’ subscription plan in more countries including India. Priced at ₹149 per month, this Spotify plan is for two people living under the same roof.

WhatsApp features

WhatsApp made a surprise announcement of not just one but five new features. These include new animated sticker packs, dark mode on WhatsApp web and desktop, group calling improvements and QR code support. WhatsApp on KaiOS is also getting support for ‘Status’ updates. These features will be available to users in the coming weeks.