📱 Can Apple's foldable beat Android's benchmarks?

Apple is set to launch its first foldable, the iPhone Duo, priced at $1,999 in the U.S. This comes seven years after Samsung released the original Galaxy Fold in the market. Global foldable market growth is projected at 20% in 2026, but foldables currently make up only 1.4% of global smartphone samples. Samsung maintains a clear lead, dominating with 76.2% of all global foldable Speedtest samples. Future sales for the Duo depend on consumer acceptance despite its premium price point. 📱

🧠 Dementia risk: what you can actually control

Dementia might not be an unavoidable part of getting older, as new science suggests. Researchers identified 14 modifiable risk factors, like blood pressure and diet, which account for an estimated 45% of global cases. The Lancet Commission update highlighted these risks across the entire lifespan, urging early intervention. Furthermore, new blood tests are making Alzheimer's diagnosis less invasive and more accurate. Overall, maintaining good physical and cardiovascular health is key to better brain health. 🧠

⚠️ SBI warns customers about upcoming bank strike

The State Bank of India issued an advisory regarding a nationwide bank strike planned from September 28 to 30, 2026. This protest action is being called by the United Forum of Bank Unions (UFBU) following previous strikes. While branches may be affected, ATMs, ADWMs, and digital banking services like UPI are expected to remain operational. Customers are advised to finish necessary in-branch work beforehand to avoid disruptions. The union has also announced a continuous strike starting on October 26 as part of its ongoing agitation.

🍬 Muslim couple snags Ganesh laddu at auction in AP

A Muslim couple successfully won a Ganesh laddu auction during Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations in Andhra Pradesh. Chandini and Mastan Vali participated in the event at Parthasaradhi Nagar, Sri Sathya Sai district. They bid Rs 1,45,000 for the rare sweet during the festival. Chandini fulfilled a vow made after having a son by winning the laddu to distribute prasadam. The couple then shared the laddu and joined the Ganesh immersion procession.

🏭 Stellantis goes full ownership of Thiruvallur plant

Stellantis has taken full ownership of the Thiruvallur plant in India. This move involves the company operating the facility in the Thiruvallur area. The plant's output is projected to jump by over 160% starting from the near future. This acquisition is part of Stellantis's larger expansion strategy in the Indian automotive market. The company is expected to ramp up production significantly in the coming months. 🏭

💰 EPFO wage cap jumps to ₹25k, check your benefits

The government increased the wage ceiling for mandatory EPFO coverage from ₹15,000 to ₹25,000 effective September 17. This move is expected to bring over 5.1 million additional employees into the system. Workers earning between ₹15,000 and ₹25,000 now gain automatic PF, pension, and insurance benefits. Those earning above ₹25,000 might see their monthly PF deduction increase up to ₹1,200. The change reflects that the old ceiling no longer matches current average salaries. 📈

🛡️ Trump's $24.3B F-35 deal sparks US, Israel worry

A proposed $24.3 billion sale of 48 F-35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia is facing intense scrutiny. The deal involves the Trump administration approving the sale to Saudi Arabia, making it the second Middle Eastern country after Israel to operate the jets. This transaction, which follows a larger $142 billion package agreed in 2025, is controversial due to regional military balance concerns. Furthermore, US officials worry about risks to sensitive technology given Saudi Arabia's expanding ties with China. Congressional review remains a major hurdle before this significant defense upgrade can proceed. 🛡️

😂 Samay Raina laughs off wedding rumours

Samay Raina addressed circulating rumours regarding his potential marriage. He stated that he has to postpone his public appearances due to these speculations. The buzz started around the date of September 15th, gaining traction online. Raina clarified that these wedding rumours are completely unfounded and just jokes. He assured fans that he will continue his regular content schedule soon.

💉 Global gaps in tracking late childhood vaccines revealed

A 194-country WHO/UNICEF analysis examined monitoring gaps for routine vaccines given after age windows. Researchers looked at data from 194 countries between 2016 and 2022 to check tracking capabilities. The study found that 64.0% of reporting countries claimed systems could capture delayed doses by 2022. Adding delayed doses increased median coverage estimates by 3.6 to 5.1 percentage points. Stronger cohort-based monitoring and electronic registries are suggested for better tracking. 💉

✨ Samsung One UI 9 drops with Android 17 and Galaxy AI 🤖

Samsung has started the global rollout of One UI 9, which brings Android 17 and new Galaxy AI features to devices. The update began on September 16 for the Galaxy S26, S26+, and S26 Ultra. This new version also includes features like My FanCam and smarter Now Brief. Security has been boosted with Security Brief and expanded scam protection in new markets. The rollout will continue gradually to more eligible Galaxy smartphones and tablets.

🇨🇦 Canada travel tips: IRCC clears up visa confusion

Canada's immigration authority, IRCC, released answers to frequently asked traveller questions regarding Canadian entry. For prospective visitors, a visitor visa or eTA is usually required based on citizenship and travel method. Document requirements include a passport valid for at least six months past the planned travel date. Visitors are strictly not permitted to work or study unless they have a separate permit. Applicants should always check current processing times and personalized checklists before applying. 🇨🇦