Apple has released the first developer beta of iOS 26.5, less than a week after the public release of iOS 26.4. Labeled build 23F5043g, the update is over 8 GB on devices like the iPhone 17 Pro and focuses on behind-the-scenes improvements rather than major visible features.

One of the key additions is support for Apple Maps ads. Code discovered in the beta indicates Apple is preparing to serve local advertisements clearly marked as ads within the Maps app. Users will also see a “Suggested Places” feature highlighting trending or relevant locations based on search history. These updates suggest that Apple may roll out Maps ads as early as summer 2026.

Another significant change is the return of end-to-end encryption for RCS messaging in the Messages app. RCS, which modernizes SMS with richer features, had its encryption removed in iOS 26.4 but is now back in testing. This ensures secure communication even between iPhone and Android users, addressing privacy concerns that have been a focus for Apple.

The beta also improves EU regulatory compliance. Live Activities and notifications can now appear on third-party wearable devices, allowing real-time updates to mirror iPhone activity. Some notification forwarding features previously limited to EU users are also being tested more broadly.

Other minor enhancements include smoother Bluetooth pairing for accessories, new language keyboard layouts, and indications of App Store subscription billing options that may provide more flexible payment terms.

Despite these improvements, the highly anticipated Siri AI upgrade is still absent. Apple had been expected to introduce major AI-powered enhancements in this update, but those are now likely to arrive with iOS 27 later in 2026.

Also Read: Centre boosts 60-days PDS kerosene supply

The central government has announced a 60‑day emergency plan to ease the pressure on LPG supplies by distributing subsidised kerosene through the public distribution system (PDS) in all states and union territories. The aim is to give households an alternative cooking fuel amid LPG shortages or high prices.

Under the plan, kerosene will be supplied to states and union territories for limited sale to eligible consumers. To make it easier for households to access, kerosene can also be sold at petrol pumps and other authorised outlets, in addition to regular PDS shops. This is intended to reach people in areas where PDS coverage is low.

The move comes as LPG demand has risen sharply in recent months due to higher household use and export demand. Many families, especially in rural and low-income areas, have faced difficulties in getting LPG cylinders at affordable prices.

Officials emphasised that the kerosene allocation is temporary and meant to provide relief while LPG supplies stabilise. The 60‑day period will help authorities monitor demand and distribution and decide on any future measures.

States and union territories are responsible for distributing the kerosene fairly, prioritising below-poverty-line families and households without access to piped cooking gas. Local authorities will coordinate with PDS shops and petrol pumps to ensure smooth delivery.

Also Read: April 1 ushers in sweeping financial changes

A wide range of financial and regulatory changes will come into effect from April 1, 2026, as India begins the new financial year (FY27). These updates will impact taxpayers, salaried individuals, and daily expenses.

A key reform is the rollout of the Income Tax Act, 2025, replacing the old 1961 law. The new system aims to simplify tax rules, reduce complexity, and introduce a single “tax year” concept. Compliance processes are expected to become more user-friendly, with revised forms and easier filing procedures.

Changes are also being made to tax documentation. A new format will replace Form 16, and taxpayers will get more flexibility to revise returns. In addition, lower Tax Collected at Source (TCS) on overseas tour packages is likely to make foreign travel slightly more affordable.

PAN rules are becoming stricter. Individuals will need to ensure their PAN details match Aadhaar records, and new applicants may have to submit additional documents. Updated application forms will also be introduced.

For salaried employees, labour law adjustments could affect take-home pay. A higher portion of salary may go towards provident fund contributions, potentially reducing monthly in-hand income, though long-term benefits like gratuity could improve.

Banking and transaction-related rules are also changing. ATM usage limits and charges may be revised, and some banks could count UPI ATM withdrawals within free transaction limits. Railway ticket cancellation policies are also expected to become stricter, reducing refunds for last-minute cancellations.

Meanwhile, prices of essential services such as LPG cylinders, fuel, and FASTag passes may be revised, which could have an impact on household budgets.

Also Read: Rupee drops past 95 against dollar

At least eight people lost their lives and several others were injured in a stampede at a temple in Bihar’s Nalanda district on Tuesday, following a sudden rush of devotees during a religious gathering.

The incident took place at the Sheetla Mata temple in Maghra village, near Bihar Sharif, where a large crowd had assembled to offer prayers on the occasion of Sheetala Ashtami. As the number of devotees increased rapidly, the situation became difficult to manage, leading to overcrowding within the temple premises.

According to initial reports, the stampede occurred when people tried to move through narrow entry and exit points at the shrine. The crowd pressure caused panic, and several devotees fell to the ground, getting trapped as others continued to push forward. The lack of space and sudden movement intensified the chaos.

Local authorities and emergency teams quickly reached the spot after receiving information about the incident. Rescue operations were carried out with the help of police and local residents. The injured were taken to nearby hospitals in Bihar Sharif, where they are undergoing treatment. Some are said to be in serious condition.

Eyewitnesses described the scene as chaotic, stating that the temple was overcrowded and that crowd control arrangements were insufficient for the large turnout. Religious events at the temple often draw heavy footfall, especially on auspicious days, but locals alleged that preparations were not adequate to handle such numbers.

The Bihar government has expressed condolences to the families of the victims and announced compensation for those affected. Officials said all necessary medical assistance is being provided to the injured.

Also Read: April 1 ushers in sweeping financial changes

The Indian rupee has weakened further as tensions in West Asia continue to unsettle global markets, pushing up crude oil prices and increasing pressure on the currency.

The rupee recently slipped to record lows against the US dollar, largely due to rising oil costs and a stronger dollar globally. As India depends heavily on oil imports, higher crude prices mean more dollars are needed to pay for imports, which in turn pulls the rupee down.

Adding to the pressure, foreign investors have been pulling money out of Indian markets amid global uncertainty. This outflow has reduced the supply of dollars in the domestic market, contributing to the rupee’s decline.

The situation is not unique to India. Many Asian currencies have come under similar stress as investors move towards safer assets like the US dollar during times of geopolitical tension. The ongoing conflict in West Asia has only intensified this trend.

Despite the currency’s fall, the government has played down concerns. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said the Indian economy is on a “firm footing” and that the rupee is doing relatively better compared to other Asian currencies facing similar challenges.

She highlighted that India’s economic fundamentals remain strong, supported by steady growth and prudent fiscal management. According to her, the current pressure on the rupee is mainly due to external factors rather than any weakness within the domestic economy.

Also Read: ₹7,100 cr cleared for electronics manufacturing

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi delivered a remarkable performance in IPL 2026, announcing himself on the big stage with a blistering half-century off just 15 balls for Rajasthan Royals against Chennai Super Kings.

Freshly turned 15, the young batter showed no signs of nerves as he dominated the CSK bowlers from the outset. He raced to 52 runs in just 17 deliveries, playing an aggressive brand of cricket that left the opposition struggling to respond. His innings was packed with boundaries and sixes, setting the tone for a swift run chase.

Rajasthan Royals were chasing a target of 128 and made light work of it, reaching the total in a little over 12 overs with eight wickets in hand. Sooryavanshi, opening the innings, stitched together a solid partnership with Yashasvi Jaiswal, ensuring there were no hiccups in the chase.

Earlier in the match, Rajasthan’s bowlers had put in a disciplined effort to restrict Chennai Super Kings to 127 runs. Regular wickets and tight bowling kept CSK under pressure throughout their innings, preventing them from building momentum.

What stood out in Sooryavanshi’s knock was not just his shot-making ability but also his calm approach despite the spotlight. The youngster appeared unfazed by expectations and played with confidence well beyond his years. After the match, he credited the team environment and coaching staff for helping him stay focused and ignore outside noise.

This innings has quickly made him one of the most talked-about players of the season. Former cricketers and experts have praised his fearless approach and suggested that he could be a future star for Indian cricket if he continues on this path.

Sooryavanshi had already shown promise in junior and domestic cricket, but this performance on the IPL stage marks a significant step forward in his career.

Also Read: April 1 ushers in sweeping financial changes

Bollywood fans are hearing a heartfelt update from legendary singer Alka Yagnik, who has revealed that she continues to struggle with a rare hearing disorder, forcing her to put new projects on hold. The singer, whose voice has defined decades of Hindi cinema, shared that she is “still suffering” from this condition, which first affected her in 2024.

For Alka, music has always been more than just a profession, it’s been a lifelong passion. Yet, the hearing issue has made even the simplest recordings challenging. Composers continue to approach her for songs, but at present, she is unable to commit to any new work. “It’s heartbreaking,” she admitted in recent interviews, expressing the frustration of being unable to do what she loves most.

Her fans may remember her last playback performance in the 2024 film Amar Singh Chamkila. Since then, she has largely stayed away from the studio, prioritizing her health and recovery. Despite this, Alka’s contributions continue to inspire a new generation of singers, and her earlier work remains evergreen.

Earlier this year, Alka Yagnik was honoured with the Padma Bhushan, one of India’s highest civilian awards, recognizing her extraordinary contribution to Indian music. While the award celebrates her past achievements, she is candid about the personal and professional challenges she faces today.

Throughout her career, Alka has delivered countless memorable songs that became the soundtrack of people’s lives, from romantic ballads to high-energy hits. Fans and colleagues alike have expressed their support, sending messages of love and hope for her recovery.

Also Read: US plans to secure Strait of Hormuz

Spain has closed its airspace and barred US military planes from its bases for operations related to the Iran war, signaling strong opposition to the conflict and straining ties with the United States.

The United States has announced plans to regain control of the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most strategically important maritime chokepoints, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said this week. The strait connects the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman and carries roughly one‑fifth of global seaborne oil exports, making its security critical for energy markets.

Bessent stressed that while the US intends to ensure long-term control and secure freedom of navigation, the global oil market remains well supplied, and commercial shipping continues, albeit cautiously. In recent days, individual countries have negotiated temporary agreements with Iran to allow their vessels to pass safely through the strait, helping maintain trade flows.

Speaking in an interview, Bessent outlined the US plan to gradually restore normal transit, including potential naval escorts for commercial shipping. He said the goal is to provide reliable, secure passage for cargo and energy shipments, reducing uncertainty for global markets. “We are seeing more and more ships move through the strait daily as countries reach agreements with the Iranian regime,” he said.

The announcement comes amid heightened tensions in the region. Disruptions to the strait can have major consequences for international trade and oil prices, as it is one of the busiest maritime routes for crude oil. The US administration has framed its actions as both a security and economic measure, ensuring that shipping lanes remain open while applying diplomatic and military pressure in the region.

While specific timelines and operational details for the planned control and escorts have not been disclosed, officials indicated that efforts will be coordinated carefully to avoid escalation.

Also Read: Iran alleges US struck India-bound aid plane

Reports claimed that a broker for US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth tried to buy a defence-related fund just before the Iran conflict. The Pentagon denied the allegation, calling it “completely false and fabricated.”