WhatsApp Guest Calls, Xbox Nano and Android’s New Scam Defenses

WhatsApp adds account-free guest calls, Microsoft announces Xbox Nano and a weather forecasting tool, Google plans stronger scam checks, and Apple publishes iPhone Duo repair estimates.

WhatsApp lets guests join calls without an account

The Verge reports that WhatsApp now lets people join calls through a shared link without creating an account or installing the app. Guests can use screen sharing, hand raising and emoji reactions, with end-to-end encryption. Starting a call still requires an account, and guests must wait for the host's approval before joining.

Microsoft announces its smaller Xbox Nano controller

According to The Verge, Microsoft announced the $49.99 Xbox Nano on October 14. The compact controller measures just over five inches long and retains the buttons found on a regular Xbox controller. Xbox Wireless and Bluetooth support connect it to consoles, phones, tablets and PCs. Microsoft describes it as intended for portability, younger players and smaller hands.

Google plans cloud-assisted scam checks in Messages

The Verge reports that Google is introducing an enhanced protection setting for Google Messages, with rollout planned for the coming weeks. It uses cloud-based Gemini models to assess potential scam intentions in conversations with unfamiliar senders. Google says the setting builds on existing Scam Detection to address fraud that develops gradually through a conversation.

Microsoft releases a tool for longer-range weather forecasts

The Verge reports that Microsoft researchers published findings in Nature on October 14 and released their weather forecasting tool as open-source software. The researchers claim their machine learning approach is a cost-effective way to improve forecasts two to six weeks ahead. The report contrasts that goal with the declining reliability of conventional forecasts and existing AI models beyond roughly two weeks.

Apple publishes iPhone Duo repair estimates

The Verge, citing MacRumors, reports that Apple published estimated iPhone Duo repair costs without AppleCare Plus on October 14. Inner display damage is listed at $999, battery service at $229 and other damage at $1,499. The estimates also list $49 for cover layer damage and $379 for outer display damage, distinguishing those repairs from the folding phone's inner screen.

Which of these updates would make the biggest difference in your daily life?