Snapchat Is Putting a 5GB Cap on Free Memories Storage.

Snapchat is significantly changing how it handles user-saved content within its platform. The company has officially announced the end of its nearly decade-long policy of providing unlimited free cloud storage for "Memories," the platform's internal archive for saved photos and videos.

This move marks Snapchat's latest effort to better monetize its core features and align with industry standards for cloud-based storage.

A New 5GB Limit for Everyone.

Effective immediately, all Snapchat users will now be limited to 5GB of free cloud storage for their saved photos and videos.

The company stated that this infrastructure shift was necessary after users saved a staggering total of over a trillion Memories since the feature’s introduction nine years ago.

This vast accumulation of user data has created a substantial overhead, forcing the platform to temper down its generous unlimited backup offering.

Paid Plans Mimic Cloud Giants.

For users who require more space, Snapchat is introducing a set of new paid storage tiers, closely mirroring models used by competitors like Apple iCloud and Google Photos.

The new plans start with a base 100GB option for users who only need a slight expansion beyond the free limit.

Larger, higher-capacity plans are also available, including 250GB and a massive 5TB tier.

Bundling with Subscriptions.

These larger tiers are set to be integrated with the platform's existing subscription services.

The 250GB option will be included as a benefit for subscribers of Snapchat+.

Meanwhile, the top-tier 5TB storage capacity is reserved for subscribers to the premium subscription tier, Snapchat Premium.

Rollout Details and Grace Period.

While the news has been made public, official pricing for the base 100GB plan and details on the exact upgrade process are still pending. The new plans do not yet appear to be fully functional within the application interface.

Snapchat is providing a major concession for power users who are already over the 5GB limit.

These existing users will be given a generous 12-month grace period to decide their next step, allowing them time to either export their extensive data library or upgrade to one of the new paid plans.

Google Adopts New Gradient 'G' Icon Company-Wide to Mark 'AI Era' Evolution.

Google is officially making its vibrant, gradient "G" logo the company's universal icon, replacing the familiar segmented four-color design.

This visual refresh, which started with Google Search earlier this year, signifies a major, company-wide branding push. The unified look aims to represent Google’s entire identity as it expands deeper into Artificial Intelligence (AI).

The new icon features brighter, blending hues where the four signature colors gently bleed into each other, creating a fluid and modern aesthetic. This gradient effect contrasts sharply with the previous logo's more distinct, partitioned quadrants.

The shift marks the first significant visual identity change for the iconic 'G' in a decade, underscoring its importance.

Symbolizing the AI-Driven Future.

According to an official announcement from the company, the updated logo now "represents all of Google — both our brand and the company."

Crucially, they state the new look "visually reflects our evolution in the AI era."

Google designed the brighter colors and gradient to symbolize the "surge of AI-driven innovation and creative energy" across its technology portfolio. The new design maintains fidelity to Google's iconic four-color palette.

Gradual Product Rollout.

While the change is now official, many users have already seen the updated 'G' in various places.

The gradient version first appeared for Google Search back in May, updating homescreen apps and web favicons.

Following this, the design was integrated into the official "Gemini spark" icon in June, signaling the visual integration of the company's AI efforts.

Google confirms the updated logo will officially roll out to "more products, platforms, and services over the coming months," standardizing the look across its entire ecosystem.

This move is more than a simple visual tweak; it is a strategic branding statement. By standardizing the gradient 'G', Google is positioning its entire product and service landscape under a unified, modern banner that reflects its AI-first commitment.

Travel Back in Time Using Google Earth Historical Imagery Feature.

Have you ever wished you could see what your neighborhood looked like a decade ago? Or maybe you've been curious to see how a new skyscraper was built from the ground up? While we can't hop into a real-time machine just yet, there's a powerful tool right at your fingertips that can take you back in time: Google Earth's historical imagery feature. It's a digital archive of our planet, captured over years of satellite and aerial photography.

This isn't just a fun gimmick; it’s a portal to the past, revealing dramatic transformations in urban landscapes, the slow march of deforestation, and the powerful impact of natural disasters. In this article, we’ll show you exactly how to unlock this hidden feature and turn your computer into a time machine. Get ready to explore the world not just as it is, but as it once was.

What is Google Earth's Historical Imagery?

Google Earth's Historical Imagery is a feature that allows users to view past satellite and aerial images of a location, essentially creating a digital time-lapse of the planet. Instead of showing just the most current image, it provides a timeline slider that lets you scroll through decades of captured data. It's a powerful tool that reveals how a place has changed over time, from subtle shifts in landscapes to major urban development.

The data for this feature is a massive collection of images from various sources, including satellites like the USGS/NASA Landsat program and high-flying aircraft. Google continuously updates this archive with new imagery, while also organizing older photos. This massive, layered database is what enables you to witness the growth of a forest, the construction of a new highway, or the before-and-after of a natural disaster, all from a single viewpoint.

How To View Historical Imagery in Google Earth?

The process for viewing historical imagery differs slightly between the desktop application and the web version of Google Earth. For the most comprehensive experience, we recommend using the desktop version.

Let's Go Back in Time With Google Earth 🌍

Method 1: Using Google Earth Pro (Desktop).

Google Earth Pro is a free desktop application that offers the most robust tools, including the full historical imagery timeline.

1. Download and Open: First, download and install the free Google Earth Pro application from Google's official website if you don't already have it.

2. Navigate: Search for and fly to the location you want to explore.

3. Activate Historical Imagery: In the top toolbar, look for the "Show historical imagery" icon. It looks like a clock with a counter-clockwise arrow. Click it.

   

4. Explore the Timeline: A timeline slider will appear in the top-left corner of the viewing window. Drag the slider to the left to go back in time. You will see small white dots on the timeline, each representing a date when imagery is available for that specific location and zoom level. Simply click a dot to see the image from that time.

Note: To save a high-resolution image of what you see, go to File > Save > Save Image. This feature allows you to export the picture with a title, a legend, and a compass, which is perfect for presentations or to show the exact difference.

Method  2: Using Google Earth for Web.

The web version of Google Earth is more streamlined and has a simplified historical imagery feature, which is great for quick looks but isn't as detailed as the desktop app.

1. Open Google Earth: Go to the Google Earth website in your browser.

2. Find a Location: Navigate to your area of interest.

3. Check for Imagery: The web version doesn't have a dedicated clock icon for all locations. Instead, the feature is often found in the "Voyager" tab on the left sidebar, under curated "Timelapse in Google Earth" stories. For some specific locations, a time slider may appear automatically at the bottom of the screen.

   

4. Limitations: The historical imagery on the web is not available for all locations, and the timeline isn't as extensive or easy to navigate as the one in the desktop application. For a deep dive into history, the Google Earth Pro desktop app is the superior tool.

The availability of imagery is not uniform across the globe. Some locations, especially older, developed areas, have data going back decades. Other, more remote areas may only have a few years of images. This is because satellite and aerial data collection is not a constant process for every single spot on Earth.

Time lapses in Google Earth.

Google Earth also showcases how our planet has changed since 1984 through its time-lapse feature available in the Historical Imagery section. Unlike the "Historical Imagery" which shows specific photos for a single spot, this tool provides a broader, global overview of change, visually demonstrating everything from urban sprawl and the melting of glaciers to deforestation over the past four decades.

To play a time-lapse video of any place on Google Earth, simply click on View > Historical Imagery, and on the left side, you will see a clock icon (Switch to Time-lapse), and the video will start playing. You can also adjust the zoom and play speed to see a better view.

Conclusion: Your Next Adventure is Just a Click Away.

Google Earth's historical imagery is more than just a cool technical feature; it's a window into the past that allows you to be an armchair historian, urban planner, or environmental scientist. The ability to watch a city rise, a glacier melt, or a forest recover is a powerful reminder of how dynamic our world is. With these tools at your disposal, you're ready to start your own journey through time. 

Now it's your turn. We'd love to hear about the changes you discover. What's the most surprising transformation you've found in your neighborhood or a place you've always wanted to visit? Share your discoveries in the comments below!

Samsung Galaxy TriFold Leaks Show Multitasking Mastery.

According to a series of newly leaked software animations, Samsung’s highly anticipated triple-folding device, the rumored Galaxy TriFold, is shaping up to be a true productivity powerhouse. These animations offer the clearest look yet at how Samsung's One UI will be optimized to manage the massive screen real estate.

The leaks, which appear to be official system demonstrations, confirm the TriFold's laser focus on advanced multitasking, effectively blurring the lines between a smartphone, a tablet, and a small PC.

Fluid Multitasking on a Giant Screen.

The animations showcase incredibly fluid app management, a necessity for a device that unfolds into a display speculated to be around 10 inches.

Users are shown seamlessly launching apps on the cover display and having them "continue" onto the main, unfolded screen without any noticeable lag or layout shift.

One key demonstration feature of Samsung’s Internet app running with a large Galaxy AI sidebar, yet the main webpage content remains highly readable and well-formatted.

Floating Windows and DeX Integration.

The ability to use apps as movable floating windows is prominently featured, a familiar yet elevated tool that gives the user a desktop-like experience.

In one scenario, the call interface transforms into a small, movable overlay, allowing users to continue working on the expansive screen without interrupting their workflow.

Furthermore, a glimpse of the DeX interface suggests the TriFold will integrate deeply with Samsung’s desktop environment, running with the same powerful capabilities as a Galaxy Tab S-series tablet.

You'll obviously have the option to copy over your homescreen from the cover display over to the main display like current foldables. pic.twitter.com/4OMvne6BFt

— Highest (@TechHighest) September 26, 2025

Camera Hints at Flagship Zoom.

A surprising detail emerged from the camera app animation, which clearly displays a 100x zoom option.

If this feature makes it to the final product, it would mark the first time Samsung has included its ultra-telephoto or periscope zoom technology on a foldable device.

This move would position the TriFold's camera hardware on par with the brand's top-tier Galaxy S Ultra flagship series.

A New Form Factor for Work and Play.

When fully unfolded, the TriFold is shown operating in a portrait orientation, similar to an e-reader, with the home screen layout adjusting to accommodate more apps and widgets than the current Z Fold series.

The leaked animations strongly suggest the device is designed to handle at least three, and possibly more, apps simultaneously on its massive screen.

While a release date and global availability are still unconfirmed, these sophisticated UI leaks solidify the Galaxy TriFold as Samsung’s most ambitious foldable project to date, likely targeting a late 2025 debut.

YouTube Playback Speed Now Reaches 4x for Premium Users.

YouTube is significantly boosting the appeal of its Premium subscription by rolling out a major expansion of video playback speed controls. Paying subscribers can now watch videos at up to 4x speed, a massive leap from the previous 2x limit, and the feature is officially expanding across more devices.

What began as an experiment on mobile is now a standard perk for YouTube Premium members on Android, iOS, and the web, catering directly to power users who consume lengthy tutorials, podcasts, and video essays.

4x Speed and Precise Controls.

Premium subscribers can now accelerate their viewing to an unprecedented 4x speed. This allows a typical hour-long video to be consumed in just 15 minutes, drastically improving content efficiency.

The update also introduces a greater degree of control for video playback. Users are no longer limited to the standard 0.25x increments; they can now fine-tune the speed in 0.05 increments for a more personalized viewing experience.

Feature Parity Across Devices.

Crucially, this speed boost is no longer confined to the mobile app. YouTube has confirmed that the expanded playback options are now available to all Premium members on all major platforms: Android, iOS, and the web browser interface.

This universal rollout ensures a consistent, high-speed viewing experience, whether you are on a smartphone, tablet, or desktop.

More Premium Perks Rolling Out.

The playback speed upgrade is part of a broader package of enhancements for the subscription service.

YouTube Premium members can now access high-quality audio streaming at 256kbps on both the main YouTube app and the YouTube Music app on mobile, a feature previously limited to the dedicated music app.

Additionally, the "Jump Ahead" feature, which uses AI to allow viewers to skip directly to key moments, is also expanding its reach to Smart TVs and gaming consoles, streamlining navigation on the biggest screens.

Xiaomi Unveils Massive Android 16-Based HyperOS 3 Rollout Schedule.

Xiaomi has officially revealed a comprehensive and aggressive rollout plan for its Android 16-based user interface, HyperOS 3. The company's new software skin is set to begin hitting devices globally as early as October, prioritizing its latest flagship and T-series models before expanding to dozens of other devices in 2026.

This update represents a major move for Xiaomi, bringing a complete redesign and a host of new Artificial Intelligence (AI) features while running on the latest Android 16 foundation.

Rollout Starts with Flagships and T-Series.

The initial deployment of HyperOS 3 is scheduled for October/November 2025, focusing on the newest and most powerful devices in Xiaomi’s and POCO’s lineups.

The first devices slated to receive the OTA update include the recently launched Xiaomi 15T Pro, Xiaomi 15T, Xiaomi 15 Ultra, and the base Xiaomi 15 model. The rollout will also immediately target popular mid-range flagships like the POCO F7 series and the Redmi Note 14 Pro models.

AI and UI Upgrades are Key Features.

Beyond the jump to Android 16, HyperOS 3 introduces several headline features. The most visually striking is "HyperIsland," Xiaomi's version of a dynamic notification area that provides real-time information and live activity tracking.

The update also heavily leverages HyperAI, a suite of AI tools that includes smart screen recognition, AI writing assistance with tone modification, and enhanced voice transcription capabilities. Furthermore, users will see new visual customizations, including AI Dynamic Wallpapers and an updated home screen design.

The Schedule Extends into 2026.

The second phase of the rollout, scheduled for November/December 2025, will bring the update to the premium Xiaomi 14 series (including the Ultra and Pro models), alongside the popular POCO F6 and X6 series.

📣 Rollout plan for #XiaomiHyperOS3 begins this October!
The new version will gradually be introduced across our ecosystem, with Xiaomi 15T Series users being the very first to experience it.
Stay tuned for more updates on the release schedule.#ReleaseSchedule #Rolloutplan pic.twitter.com/5HawewYUDq

— Xiaomi HyperOS (@XiaomiHyperOS_) September 24, 2025

Finally, the broad final phase, spanning December 2025 through March 2026, will cover older flagships like the Xiaomi 13 series, as well as a large number of Redmi Note 13 series devices and various Xiaomi and Redmi tablets. This long-term schedule is a strong commitment to providing the latest software across a wide-ranging portfolio.

From Garage to Global Brain: Google Celebrates 27 Years of Organizing the World's Information.

On September 27, 2025, the global technology community pauses to mark a significant milestone: Google's 27th birthday. What began as a research project in a Stanford University dorm room has exploded into the most powerful engine for accessing information the world has ever seen, continually shaping the future of technology and digital life.

To celebrate its 27th anniversary, Google treated users to a nostalgic trip down memory lane with a special Google Doodle that revived its very first logo from 1998. The retro design, featuring the original wordmark, served as a powerful reminder of the company's humble beginnings and the extraordinary journey of innovation that followed.

The Birthday Paradox: Why September 27th?

For those who track tech history, Google's birthday is often a source of confusion. The company was officially incorporated on September 4, 1998. Other key dates in its founding include:

• September 15, 1997: The domain name google.com was registered.
• August 1998: The company received its first major investment.

However, since the mid-2000s, Google has consistently chosen September 27th as its symbolic date of celebration. This tradition is generally believed to have started when the company aligned its birthday celebration with a Doodle it posted on this date, commemorating a major milestone in the growth of its search index and its rapid ascent as the dominant search engine.

Regardless of the official paperwork date, September 27th is the day Google chooses to reflect on its mission: to organize the world's information and make it universally accessible and useful.

A Story of Exponential Growth.

Google’s origin story is a Silicon Valley legend. Co-founders Larry Page and Sergey Brin, then Ph.D. students at Stanford, developed an algorithm called PageRank that went beyond simply counting keywords, analyzing the links between websites to determine their relevance and importance. This insight was the bedrock of a better search engine, initially called "BackRub," before being famously renamed "Google," a misspelling of the mathematical term "googol" (1 followed by 100 zeros), signifying their ambition to handle a massive, infinite amount of information.

From their first office in a friend's garage in Menlo Park, California, the company quickly scaled.

Key Milestones in Google's Journey:

• 2000: Launch of AdWords (now Google Ads), creating the financial engine for its future growth.
• 2004: Launch of Gmail, offering an unheard-of amount of free storage, and the company's Initial Public Offering (IPO).
• 2005: Launch of Google Maps and Google Earth.
• 2006: Acquisition of YouTube, which became the world’s leading video platform.
• 2008: Launch of the Android operating system and the Chrome web browser.
• 2015: Restructuring into the holding company Alphabet Inc., with Google as its largest subsidiary.

The Future is AI: Google at 27

Today, under the leadership of CEO Sundar Pichai, Google is no longer just a search company. It is a global powerhouse with a sprawling ecosystem that touches nearly every aspect of digital life, from cloud computing (Google Cloud) and hardware (Pixel, Nest) to self-driving technology (Waymo).

As it steps into its 27th year, the company’s focus has sharpened into a single, transformative area: Artificial Intelligence. The introduction of large language models and multimodal AI, such as the Gemini platform, is its current flagship initiative, aiming to redefine not just search, but the entire interaction between people and technology. This latest wave of innovation is positioned as the next frontier in fulfilling its founding mission, moving beyond organizing static web pages to providing dynamic, intelligent, and personalized information.

Google's 27th birthday is more than a celebration of a search engine; it’s a moment to appreciate a company that fundamentally changed the world’s access to knowledge and continues to drive the biggest advancements in the technology landscape. As the company looks back at its first logo, it simultaneously looks forward to the next generation of AI-powered tools that will carry its legacy into the next quarter-century.