Technology News: Instagram App for iPad, New Motorola Razr, and the Latest from Gemini.
Plus: A new smartphone from CMF is expected, Specialized's new electric mountain bike has a starting price of $8,000, and Teenage Engineering has released a major software update for its sampler.
It is rumored that an Instagram app for iPad is on the way. According to reports, a Meta employee has stated that the long-awaited app is finally being developed, driven by the company's interest in increasing user activity on Instagram. Currently, Instagram is available on the iPad, but it is an iPhone version, which means it does not take full advantage of the device’s screen size and leads to a disappointing experience due to the mismatch of proportions in images and Reels.
Despite complaints about the user interface, Adam Mosseri, the head of Instagram, has not greenlit a dedicated design for the iPad. Although he has been reluctant to prioritize the development of this app, he has discussed the topic several times, explaining that there is not enough demand to justify the work on it. However, with the uncertainty surrounding TikTok, Mosseri may be reconsidering his stance.
The report suggests that Instagram is leveraging the possibility of a TikTok ban as an opportunity to attract more users to its platform. Prior to a brief ban in January, Instagram released an update aimed at enhancing Reels, its short video feature, to capture TikTok users. Maximum video lengths were expanded, the profile grid format was modified, and a new video app called Edits, similar to ByteDance's CapCut, was introduced.
For now, Instagram has not confirmed the development of the iPad app, so there is no set release date. The TikTok ban has been extended for another 75 days, keeping user attention on the App Store in suspense.
Motorola has announced the release date for its upcoming Razr: April 24. This foldable phone continues the success line of the Razr and Razr+ from 2024. Although the teaser video shows a phone that looks identical to its predecessors, the word "AI" stands out at the end. Motorola has been testing its Moto AI since late 2024, an assistant that can remember details about users and assist with transcriptions.
Additionally, a new Moto G Stylus 2025 has been introduced, maintaining the price of its predecessor at $399. This phone remains the only stylus smartphone under $500, and Motorola is highlighting its capabilities. It can turn basic drawings into AI-generated art, solve math problems, and features IP68 water resistance, a 120 Hz OLED display, and wireless charging, launching on April 17.
Nothing is about to reveal its new CMF phone, which is the successor to the Phone 1. A teaser was shared in its community forum showcasing some features of the CMF Phone 2 Pro, highlighting an ultra-slim and lightweight design. More details are expected on April 28.
On another note, Google is expanding the capabilities of Gemini Live for Pixel 9 and Galaxy S25 users, allowing camera sharing for smoother conversations, which will facilitate tasks such as identifying products or seeking inspiration for home decor.
In the realm of electric bicycles, Specialized has launched the S-Works Levo 4, which promises superior performance with a 720-watt motor and a 1,120 Wh battery, ideal for tackling technical climbs.
Sony has introduced new speakers designed to provide a superior party experience, with models varying in size and power. These speakers aim to stand out for their ability to deliver both sound quality and visual effects.
Finally, Teenage Engineering has released a significant software update for its K.O. II sampler, improving remixing functionality and offering new creative tools, making it an attractive product even after its initial launch.
