Category: technology

New Delhi, Jan 17, 2024

Tata Passenger Electric Mobility Ltd (TPEM), a subsidiary of Tata Motors, has made a significant entry into the electric vehicle market with the launch of the Punch.ev. This new electric vehicle (EV), based on the advanced Pure EV architecture – acti.ev, is now available in India with a starting price of Rs 10.99 lakh. The Punch.ev is designed to offer a seamless blend of style and efficiency, making it a desirable option for eco-conscious consumers.

The vehicle’s design mirrors the conventional model of the Punch, maintaining its upright stance. However, it differentiates itself with its electric heart. The Punch.ev is available in three distinct variants – Smart, Adventure, and Empowered, catering to a wide range of customer preferences.

One of the key highlights of the Punch.ev is its impressive range and battery options. Customers can choose between two battery pack options: a 25 kWh pack providing a range of 315 km and a more robust 35 kWh pack that offers an extended range of 421 km, as per the Modified Indian Driving Cycle (MIDC) standards. Additionally, the vehicle is equipped with two e-Drive options: a 60kW Permanent Magnet Synchronous AC Motor producing 114Nm of torque and a more powerful 90kW motor delivering 190Nm of torque.

For those seeking longer ranges, the Punch.ev Long Range (LR) variant is an excellent choice. It comes with the option of a 3.3kW and a 7.2 kW AC fast charger, installable at home or workplaces. Its DC Fast Charging capability allows for a rapid charge from 10% to 80% in just 56 minutes using any 50 kW DC fast charger.

The Punch.ev also impresses with its in-cabin technology. It features two 26cm screens, one for high-definition infotainment by HARMAN, and the other serving as a digital cockpit. The vehicle supports multiple voice assistants, including the native “Hey Tata” assistant, Alexa, Siri, and Google Assistant, offering a convenient and connected driving experience.

Additionally, the ZConnect Connected Car Technology with smartwatch connectivity comes as standard, enhancing the connected car experience. The Punch.ev is not just about performance and connectivity; it also focuses on aesthetics with features like a smart charging indicator, bi-functional LEDs, and distinctive welcome and goodbye signatures.

With its launch, the Punch.ev is poised to redefine the EV market in India, offering an eco-friendly, technologically advanced, and stylish driving option for the Indian consumer. It will be available at all Tata Motors showrooms authorized for EV sales and Tata.ev stores across the country.

January 15, 2024

In a move that has excited the gaming community across India, Asus has announced a substantial Rs. 10,000 discount on its popular handheld gaming PC, the ROG Ally, as part of the Amazon Great Republic Day Sale. This discount brings the cutting-edge device’s price down to an appealing Rs. 59,990 from its original tag of Rs. 69,990.

The sale, which is set to commence on January 13, promises a plethora of deals across various product categories, with a special emphasis on electronic devices and gaming equipment. Prime members will get early access starting from midnight tonight, allowing them to grab these deals before the general public.

The ROG Ally, introduced in the Indian market in July 2023, has been a significant player in the gaming segment, known for its robust performance and portability. This handheld gaming PC, running Windows 11, is Asus’s first foray into the handheld gaming segment and has since garnered attention for its capability to run AAA titles as well as smaller games at a 1080p resolution.

In global markets, the ROG Ally was released in two variants, but the Indian market received the more advanced RC71L model, which is equipped with AMD’s Z1 Extreme chipset. This model is not just a gaming device but a symbol of technological advancement in handheld gaming.

As for the technical specifics, the ROG Ally boasts a 7-inch full-HD (1,920×1,080 pixels) IPS LCD display. Gamers can enjoy a seamless visual experience thanks to the display’s 120Hz refresh rate and up to 500 nits of peak brightness. Under the hood, the device is powered by an AMD Z1 Extreme processor, coupled with AMD RDNA3 graphics with 4GB of VRAM, expandable up to 8GB.

In addition to its impressive display and processing capabilities, the ROG Ally offers 16GB of LPDDR5 RAM and 512GB of NVMe SSD storage, expandable via a UHS-II MicroSD 4.0 card slot. Connectivity options include Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.2, and the device also includes a USB Type-C port for charging. The 40Whr battery of the handheld, which supports 65W charging, ensures that gamers can enjoy prolonged gaming sessions without frequent interruptions.

In terms of design, the Asus ROG Ally measures 280 x 111 x 21.2mm and weighs 608g, striking a balance between a solid build and portability. This makes it an ideal choice for gamers who are always on the move but do not want to compromise on their gaming experience.

Moreover, the Amazon sale is also offering an additional 10 percent instant discount for SBI credit card and EMI transactions, making this deal even more lucrative for potential buyers. This additional discount is a strategic move by Amazon to attract more customers and increase sales during this highly anticipated sale period.

The Asus ROG Ally’s introduction and subsequent popularity signify a growing interest in high-quality, portable gaming devices in India. With its advanced features, the ROG Ally is not only an attractive option for hardcore gamers but also for casual players who seek a powerful yet portable gaming experience. The current discount, coupled with the additional benefits for SBI customers, makes the Asus ROG Ally an irresistible deal in this year’s Amazon Great Republic Day Sale.

In a surprising development following the launch of OpenAI’s GPT Store, a new trend has emerged: the proliferation of romantic AI chatbots, despite clear restrictions against them. This surge has sparked a debate over the ethical implications of such artificial companions.

The GPT Store, introduced by OpenAI, the developer behind ChatGPT, was designed as a platform for sharing and accessing custom AI applications. However, a recent Quartz analysis highlighted an unexpected influx of “AI girlfriends” in the marketplace. Searches revealed various virtual companions like “Korean Girlfriend,” “Virtual Sweetheart,” and others, raising questions about adherence to OpenAI’s usage policies.

OpenAI’s guidelines explicitly prohibit the creation and distribution of GPTs intended for “fostering romantic companionship or performing regulated activities.” These policies are meant to be enforced automatically or retroactively, yet the presence of these chatbots suggests a gap in the enforcement process.

The popularity of AI companionship platforms has been growing, with apps like Replika, known for providing judgment-free virtual friendships, gaining over 10 million downloads. This trend has led to some users developing deep emotional bonds, and even falling in love with their AI companions.

When asked about this phenomenon, ChatGPT responded with caution, highlighting the ethical and social implications. It noted that while AI companionship can be intriguing, it also brings up concerns about objectification and the impact on real human connections. ChatGPT emphasized the importance of ethical guidelines and the consideration of potential societal consequences in the development and use of such applications.

This development in the AI industry raises critical questions about the balance between technological advancement and ethical responsibility, especially as AI becomes increasingly integrated into personal aspects of human life. As the debate continues, it remains to be seen how OpenAI and other stakeholders will address these emerging challenges in the AI landscape.

Nov 20, 2023: In a landmark move for the technology sector, Sam Altman, the former CEO of the AI research lab OpenAI, has officially joined Microsoft. This announcement, made by Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella, signals a new era in the field of artificial intelligence (AI), uniting two of the most influential entities in the industry.

Altman, renowned for his transformative leadership at OpenAI, brings to Microsoft a wealth of experience in AI research and development. Alongside him, Greg Brockman, also a prominent figure from OpenAI, will join Microsoft to co-lead an advanced AI research team. This strategic alignment marks a significant fusion of talent and resources, poised to accelerate innovation in AI.

A Strategic Alliance

The move comes at a pivotal time when AI is increasingly integral to technology and business strategies across various sectors. Microsoft’s acquisition of these two AI visionaries underscores the company’s commitment to maintaining a leading position in the rapidly evolving AI landscape. The new research team, under the guidance of Altman and Brockman, is expected to pioneer groundbreaking AI technologies that could reshape industries.

Microsoft’s AI Ambitions

Under Nadella’s leadership, Microsoft has consistently invested in AI, integrating it into their products and services. The addition of Altman and Brockman to their ranks is a clear indication of Microsoft’s ambition to not only stay abreast of AI advancements but to be a key driver of innovation in the field. Nadella’s announcement emphasizes the company’s focus on its AI product roadmap and its dedication to supporting its customers and partners with advanced AI solutions.

The OpenAI Connection

Altman’s move to Microsoft follows his departure from OpenAI, a company he co-founded and led to significant achievements in AI research. Under his leadership, OpenAI made headlines with developments like GPT-3, an advanced language processing AI. Microsoft has been a key investor and partner of OpenAI, and this new development is an extension of their long-standing relationship.

The partnership between Microsoft and OpenAI has been mutually beneficial, with Microsoft gaining access to some of the most advanced AI technologies, and OpenAI leveraging Microsoft’s cloud computing platform, Azure, to scale its AI models. Nadella’s announcement reaffirms this partnership, signaling a continued collaboration with OpenAI’s new leadership team, including Emmett Shear.

Looking Ahead

The tech community is abuzz with anticipation regarding the potential outcomes of this collaboration. The combination of Microsoft’s technological infrastructure and market reach with Altman and Brockman’s expertise in AI could lead to significant advancements in AI capabilities, potentially setting new standards in the industry.

This strategic move by Microsoft is more than just an addition of two high-profile executives; it’s a statement of intent in the AI race. As AI continues to transform every aspect of our digital lives, from personal computing to large-scale enterprise solutions, Microsoft’s reinforced AI team, led by Altman and Brockman, is well-positioned to lead the charge into the future of AI.

In conclusion, the joining of Sam Altman and Greg Brockman with Microsoft is not just a significant personnel change but a pivotal moment in the AI industry. It represents a fusion of vision, expertise, and resources that could redefine the boundaries of AI research and development, signaling a new chapter in the ever-evolving narrative of technological advancement.

New Delhi, November 23, 2023

The Indian government, acknowledging the rising threats posed by deepfakes to democracy and public safety, is set to introduce new regulations. IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, after a crucial meeting with representatives from social media platforms and AI technology firms, announced the initiative on Thursday.

Deepfakes, which use artificial intelligence to create convincing fake videos and audio, have been flagged as a major concern by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and various public figures. In response, the government aims to draft these regulations swiftly, with a target to have a preliminary framework ready in the coming weeks.

During the meeting, key issues were discussed, including methods to detect deepfakes, prevent their spread, establish effective reporting mechanisms, and increase public awareness. The minister emphasized the need for both creators and platforms hosting deepfakes to be accountable under the new regulations.

Reflecting on the borderless nature of the digital world, Mr. Vaishnaw pointed out that global content will be subject to Indian laws if it reaches Indian audiences. This global approach is integral to the proposed regulatory framework, which may include new rules, laws, or amendments to existing legislation.

The potential introduction of penalties for creators and platforms that disseminate harmful deepfakes was also discussed. However, the minister assured that free speech and privacy remain paramount concerns for the government. The forthcoming regulations are expected to balance these rights with the need to protect society from the misuse of AI technologies.

In a related development, Prime Minister Modi, addressing the G20 Summit, called for international cooperation in ensuring that AI, particularly deepfakes, is safe for public use.

The news comes in the wake of recent incidents involving deepfake videos of prominent actors, which heightened the urgency for regulation. The next meeting to discuss the progress on these issues is scheduled for early December.

This move marks a significant step by the Indian government in addressing the challenges and ethical implications of rapidly evolving AI technologies.

Bengaluru, December 27, 2023

The tech world is abuzz with anticipation as major players like Xiaomi, Samsung, and Apple are poised to unveil their latest innovations in the coming weeks. From Xiaomi’s first international electric vehicle (EV) launch to Samsung’s new mid-range smartphones and Apple’s high-end VR headset, the market is set for a series of exciting developments.

Xiaomi Stride EV Makes Global Debut

Xiaomi is taking a significant stride in the EV market with its upcoming “Stride” EV launch event scheduled for December 28. This event marks the company’s first EV unveiling outside China and is expected to showcase the Xiaomi SU7 series, a line of smart cars equipped with varying range and features. These vehicles are anticipated to run on Xiaomi’s custom operating system, HyperOS, indicating a significant leap in integrating technology with automotive engineering.

Samsung Unveils Galaxy A25 and A15 in India

In the smartphone arena, Samsung has just launched two new additions to its mid-range A series in India – the Galaxy A25 and Galaxy A15. Both models feature a distinctive Samsung design with a triple camera array at the back. They offer up to 256 GB of internal storage and 8 GB of RAM, running on the latest Android 14-based OneUI 6 operating system. These devices aim to deliver high-end features at an accessible price point, targeting a broad consumer base.

Apple’s Vision Pro Set for Launch

On the frontier of virtual reality, Apple’s Vision Pro headset is reported to launch by late January or early February in the US. With an expected shipment of around 50,000 units in 2024, the Vision Pro is priced at a steep $3,500, positioning it as one of the most luxurious standalone consumer VR headsets available. Revealed earlier at WWDC 2023, the Vision Pro represents Apple’s commitment to cutting-edge technology and immersive user experiences.

iQOO Neo 9 Series Leaks and Launch

Adding to the smartphone launch frenzy, leaks about the iQOO Neo 9 series have surfaced, revealing that the base Neo 9 will be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, while the Neo 9 Pro will utilize the MediaTek Dimensity 9300 SoC. Set to debut on December 27 in China, these smartphones are expected to hit the Indian market by early January, offering yet another exciting option for tech enthusiasts.

As the year draws to a close, these announcements and launches from Xiaomi, Samsung, and Apple signal a dynamic and innovative start to the new year in the tech industry. Consumers and industry watchers alike await these developments with bated breath, ready to witness the next wave of technological advancements shaping the future.

September 13, 2023

Apple has once again proved why it’s a pioneer in the world of smartphones. Unveiling the iPhone 15 during the much-hyped ‘Wonderlust’ event, the tech giant has set the industry buzzing. Here’s what Indian enthusiasts should know.

Price Tag and Availability

Keeping in line with the iPhone 14’s debut price, Apple has launched the 128GB iPhone 15 at Rs 79,900. The 256GB model is priced at Rs 89,900, and for those who seek higher storage, the 512GB variant is tagged at Rs 1,09,900. Mark your calendars, because the iPhone 15 hits Indian markets on September 22. Pre-orders begin on September 15 at 5:30 PM IST.

Design and Display

The iPhone 15 retains the familiar look of its predecessor, sporting a 6.1-inch display. Five vibrant colours – pink, yellow, green, blue, and black, offer aesthetic choices to potential buyers. A noteworthy design upgrade is the shift from the conventional notch to a Dynamic Island notch, a feature previously reserved for the iPhone 14 Pro.

Under the Hood

• Camera: A whopping 48-megapixel primary camera, a leap from the iPhone 14’s 12-megapixel dual-camera system, promises spectacular low light photography and enhanced portrait shots.

• Battery: Apple promises an “all-day battery life”, though specifics of battery capacity remain undisclosed.

• Processor: Speed and efficiency are ensured with Apple’s latest A16 bionic processor.

Standout Features

• Dynamic Island Notch: No longer an exclusive Pro feature, the dynamic island notch is available across all iPhone 15 models. This unique notch adjusts its size based on notifications. Apple has also introduced functionalities like pizza delivery tracking and cab ride monitoring via the notch.

• USB Type-C Charging: Apple has officially abandoned the lightning port, transitioning to the universally accepted USB Type-C. No more searching for that exclusive iPhone charger on the go!

• Enhanced Photography Tools: Smart HDR, an improved night mode, and 4K video recording at 60FPS are just the beginning. The iPhone 15 allows users to shift the focus of a subject post-click, and also offers adjustable focal length and depth control options.

The Verdict

The iPhone 15, with its array of models, is a testament to Apple’s commitment to innovation. With unique features now spanning across all models and a significant camera upgrade, it’s poised to be a must-have for both first-time Apple users and those looking for an upgrade.

With the phone set to release soon in India, Apple enthusiasts have a lot to be excited about. If the specifications are any indication, the iPhone 15 looks set to dominate the smartphone market for the foreseeable future.

ISRO said the rover’s spectroscope can also detect lead, calcium, iron, chromium, titanium, manganese, silicon and oxygen when needed. Hydrogen research is still ongoing.

“Preliminary analysis from representative images shows presence of aluminum (Al), sulfur (S), calcium (Ca), iron (Fe), chromium (Cr), and titanium (Ti) in Sunlight; manganese (Mn), silicon (Si) and oxygen (O).
ISRO added: “The LIBS instrument was developed at the Electro-Optical Systems (LEOS) / ISRO Laboratory in Bangalore”.

The change comes after the Indian space agency said the Prajja rover had “discovered more secrets of the moon”. Minutes after Chandrayaan-3’s successful landing on the south side of the moon on August 23, the rover “Vikram” took off from the lander.

On August 26, ISRO released a video showing the rover circumnavigating “Shiv Shakti”, the landing site of Chandrayaan 3. Mission “” Chandrayaan 3:

*Bengaluru, August 26, 2023* – Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the Indian Space Research Organisation’s (ISRO) Telemetry Tracking and Command Network Mission Control Complex in Bengaluru today, to commend the scientists for their historic success in landing the Chandrayaan-3 mission on the moon.

In an inspiring address to the scientists, PM Modi was effusive in his praise for the role played by women scientists, a testimony to what he called “Nari Shakti” or “Women Power”. “Women scientists played a key role in the success of the Chandrayaan-3 mission,” said the Prime Minister.

A Symbol of National Pride

The Prime Minister congratulated the ISRO team on achieving a historic lunar landing, saying they had taken India to unprecedented heights in the arena of space research. “This mission demonstrates the power of our space research and program. India is on the moon. We also placed the symbol of our national pride (Tricolour) on the moon,” PM Modi added.

“Shivkshakti” Point as an Inspiration for Future Generations

The Vikram lander successfully touched down on a spot on the lunar South Pole, dubbed as the ‘Shivkshakti’ point. PM Modi asserted that this point will inspire future generations to earnestly engage with science, thereby using it for the welfare of the people.

National Space Day

Marking the momentous occasion, Prime Minister Modi announced that August 23 will henceforth be celebrated as ‘National Space Day’, in honor of the successful touchdown of the Chandrayaan-3 mission’s lander. This is a significant declaration aimed at recognizing the advancements India has made in space technology.

Briefing by ISRO Chairman

ISRO Chairman S Somanath briefed PM Modi on the journey of the Chandrayaan-3 mission and the relentless efforts of the scientists involved in this landmark project. The Prime Minister was visibly pleased and impressed with the updates he received.

First Stop Post International Tour

Upon his return from a two-nation tour of South Africa and Greece, the Prime Minister could not contain his enthusiasm to meet the team of scientists responsible for this great achievement. “I could not stop myself as I was not in the country, but I decided to visit Bengaluru first and meet our scientists right after visiting India,” he shared.

A Boost for Indian Science

Before heading to the ISRO Complex, PM Modi greeted the people of Bengaluru outside HAL airport, raising the slogan ‘Jai Vigyan Jai Anusandhan’ (‘Hail Science, Hail Research’), highlighting his government’s focus on scientific research and innovation.

The success of the Chandrayaan-3 mission not only marks a milestone for ISRO but is also a testament to the progress India has made in science and technology. The Prime Minister’s recognition and praise for the role of women scientists in this feat underscores the growing diversity and inclusivity in Indian scientific endeavors.

In an era of rapid technological advancements, the success of the Chandrayaan-3 mission serves as an inspiration, setting India firmly among the leading nations in the world of space research.

In today’s world, smartphones are an essential part of our daily lives. They help us stay connected with friends and family, work remotely, and provide us with entertainment. However, in hot climates, smartphones can quickly overheat, causing potential damage to the device.

When a smartphone overheats, it can affect its performance, reduce battery life, and even cause permanent damage. It can be a significant problem, especially for those living in regions with hot and humid weather.

Let us explore the causes of smartphone overheating and how to prevent it.

One of the primary reasons for smartphone overheating is high ambient temperature. When the air temperature is hot, the smartphone’s internal temperature rises, causing it to overheat. Similarly, exposure to direct sunlight can increase the device’s temperature, leading to overheating.

Another cause of smartphone overheating is running too many apps simultaneously. When multiple apps run simultaneously, the smartphone’s processor works harder, generating more heat and eventually overheating the device.

Power-hungry features such as GPS, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth can cause the smartphone to overheat. These features consume more battery power and generate heat if used continuously.

So, how can you prevent your smartphone from overheating? Here are a few tips:

1. Avoid exposing your smartphone to direct sunlight or high-temperature environments.

2. Close apps you are not using and limit the number of apps running simultaneously.

3. Disable GPS, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth when not in use.

4. Remove your smartphone’s case when it gets hot to allow for better air circulation.

5. Don’t leave your smartphone in a car or other enclosed areas where the temperature can rise quickly.

Smartphone overheating is a common problem, especially in hot climates. However, by following these simple tips, you can prevent your device from overheating and potentially damaging the device. It’s essential to take care of your smartphone to ensure that it continues to function correctly and lasts for a long time.