Category: Technology

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Apple’s made-in-India iPhones cross $50 bn in 2025

Apple’s iPhones made in India have hit a remarkable milestone, with exports reaching $50 billion (around ₹4.5 lakh crore) in 2025, the government has revealed. Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw called it a “historic achievement” and a testament to India’s growing stature in global electronics manufacturing.

This surge comes as a direct result of India’s Make in India initiative and the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme, both aimed at attracting global companies to set up and expand their manufacturing operations locally. Apple joined the PLI program in 2022, and the results are already visible. In fact, in the first nine months of the current fiscal year alone, India shipped $16 billion worth of iPhones abroad.

Vaishnaw highlighted how India’s electronics industry has grown over the past decade, noting that production has increased six-fold and exports have jumped eight-fold since 2014. Today, smartphones and electronic goods are among the country’s top export categories, and Apple’s success is playing a big role in that story.

Much of this production comes from Apple’s assembly partners in India, including Foxconn and Tata Electronics. A network of around 45 component makers, including many small and medium enterprises, supports these plants. This ecosystem is not only helping Apple meet global demand but also creating local employment—currently supporting around 2.5 million jobs in electronics manufacturing.

For perspective, while Samsung’s mobile exports from India during a comparable period totaled about $17 billion, Apple’s iPhone shipments have more than doubled that, underlining India’s rising significance in the global supply chain.

For the thousands of workers on the assembly lines, and the millions in supporting industries, the $50 billion achievement represents both pride and promise for the future of “Made in India.”

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Alexa+ AI assistant now works online

Amazon has made its AI assistant, Alexa+, available on the web at Alexa.com, letting users interact directly from their browsers. Until now, Alexa was mainly tied to Echo smart speakers, Echo Show screens, or the Alexa mobile app. With this move, anyone with an Amazon account can now type or speak to Alexa+ without needing a device, making the assistant more accessible than ever.

Alexa+ can perform a wide range of tasks. It can answer questions, help plan trips, manage calendars, organize to-do lists, and even summarize documents, emails, or images. For example, it can turn a recipe into a shopping list, summarize a work email, or help plan a family event. The aim is to make everyday tasks simpler and more convenient, whether at home, at work, or on the go.

A key feature of the web version is cross-device continuity. Tasks and conversations started in a browser carry over seamlessly to the Alexa mobile app or Echo devices. Smart home controls are also integrated, allowing users to adjust lights, thermostats, door locks, and cameras directly from their browser. This ensures that Alexa+ works as a truly connected assistant across multiple devices.

Amazon has also updated the Alexa mobile app, giving it a stronger focus on AI chat and generative assistance while keeping traditional Alexa functions intact. Together, the web platform, mobile app, and voice devices create a unified experience where users can rely on Alexa+ in whichever way is most convenient.

Currently, Alexa.com is available through Early Access in the U.S. and Canada. Wider public access is expected later this year. Amazon’s web launch positions Alexa+ alongside AI competitors such as ChatGPT and Google Gemini, giving users a powerful, versatile assistant across platforms and devices.

With this expansion, Alexa+ is no longer just a voice assistant for smart homes; it is becoming a comprehensive AI companion that can help with work, learning, planning, and daily life.

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India opens first AI clinic in Greater Noida

India has launched its first government-operated Artificial Intelligence (AI) clinic at the Government Institute of Medical Sciences (GIMS), Greater Noida, marking a major step towards technology-driven public healthcare. The clinic is designed to support doctors with faster, more accurate diagnosis and early detection of serious diseases, while keeping patient care within the public health system.

The AI clinic integrates artificial intelligence with routine clinical tests, medical imaging and genetic screening. It analyses data from blood tests, X-rays, ultrasounds, CT scans and MRIs to identify early signs of illnesses such as cancer, heart disease, kidney disorders and liver conditions. Officials say this will help reduce delays in diagnosis, a common challenge in overcrowded government hospitals.

Doctors at GIMS explained that AI tools will assist radiologists and pathologists by quickly flagging abnormal findings. This allows specialists to focus on complex cases while AI handles initial screening and pattern recognition. Even small tumours, early fractures or subtle organ damage can be detected at an earlier stage, improving treatment outcomes.

The clinic will also support personalised treatment planning. By combining a patient’s medical history, lifestyle factors and genetic data, AI systems can help clinicians choose more targeted therapies and appropriate drug dosages. Early detection, particularly in cancer and chronic diseases, can significantly improve survival rates and reduce long-term healthcare costs.

Health officials said the initiative aims to bridge gaps in specialist care, especially for patients from underserved regions. Since AI can analyse data remotely, the model could later be expanded to district hospitals and linked with telemedicine services.

The government sees the AI clinic as a pilot project that could be replicated across India’s public healthcare network. Experts believe it also creates opportunities for collaboration between government hospitals, researchers and health-tech startups.

With this launch, India joins a growing list of countries using AI to strengthen public healthcare delivery, improve efficiency and ensure timely, patient-centred care.

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72 hour deadline for X to tackle AI abuse

The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has issued a notice to social media platform X (formerly Twitter) over the circulation of obscene and sexually explicit content generated using its AI chatbot, Grok. The ministry flagged concerns about the misuse of AI to create inappropriate images and videos, particularly targeting women and children, calling it a serious breach of Indian laws and digital safety norms.

In its notice, MeitY directed X to take immediate action within 72 hours. The company has been asked to remove all illegal and offensive content generated through Grok, conduct a thorough review of the AI system to prevent misuse, and take strict action against users posting such material, including suspending or terminating accounts. X is also required to submit an Action Taken Report (ATR) to the ministry detailing the steps it has implemented.

The ministry warned that failure to comply could lead to legal consequences, including penalties under the Information Technology Act, the Indecent Representation of Women (Prohibition) Act, and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act. It also cautioned that X could lose certain legal protections under Section 79 of the IT Act if it does not act responsibly.

This notice follows complaints from lawmakers and social media users about how easily Grok can be prompted to generate sexualised or offensive images, including content involving minors. Officials emphasized that platforms offering AI services have a duty to implement safeguards to prevent their misuse.

The notice was sent to X’s Chief Compliance Officer in India, highlighting the regulatory expectation that AI platforms must comply fully with Indian laws and ensure that their tools are not used to create harmful content. The government reiterated that AI systems should be closely monitored and that platforms remain responsible for preventing the spread of obscene or illegal material. MeitY’s action underscores India’s increasing focus on regulating AI and protecting the dignity and safety of vulnerable groups online.

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Vision Pro hits sales snag, Apple halts production

Apple’s ambitious Vision Pro headset isn’t selling as expected. Sources say the company has drastically scaled back production and marketing after poor early sales, signaling a step back for the $3,499 device. Launched as a futuristic way to merge virtual and real‑world experiences, the headset hasn’t captured widespread interest.

Reviewers and early users have pointed out the device’s bulkiness, limited battery life, and a small selection of apps, making it less appealing to casual buyers. Estimates suggest only about 45,000 units were shipped during the holiday quarter, far below the numbers Apple usually achieves with its gadgets.

The Vision Pro is currently sold in just 13 countries, and Apple’s manufacturing partner reportedly paused production in early 2025. With competitors like Meta offering more affordable VR headsets that dominate the market, Apple faces an uphill battle in this premium niche.

Industry insiders say Apple is exploring a cheaper, more accessible version of the Vision Pro while also leaning into AI-enabled wearable devices. The headset’s early performance underscores the challenge of creating a new category from scratch, even for a tech giant known for redefining consumer electronics.

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BSNL launches Wi‑Fi calling, never lose a call

Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) has rolled out its Voice over Wi‑Fi (VoWiFi) service nationwide starting January 1, 2026. The service, also known as Wi‑Fi Calling, is now available to all BSNL subscribers across every telecom circle in India, aiming to enhance call quality and connectivity even in areas with weak mobile signals.

VoWiFi allows users to make and receive voice calls and SMS using a Wi‑Fi connection, bypassing traditional cellular networks. This is particularly useful in locations such as basements, offices, homes, rural areas, or other regions where network coverage is poor. The service works with any stable broadband connection, including BSNL Bharat Fiber or other internet providers, ensuring uninterrupted communication in so-called “coverage shadow” zones.

The system operates on an IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS) platform, which enables smooth switching between Wi‑Fi and mobile networks without dropping calls. Users can make calls directly from their regular phone dialer, with no need for third-party apps. Most modern smartphones support VoWiFi, and subscribers may need to activate the Wi‑Fi Calling feature in device settings.

BSNL has made the service available at no additional cost. Calls made via Wi‑Fi are billed under the subscriber’s existing voice plan, meaning users can enjoy improved connectivity without extra charges. The move is part of BSNL’s efforts to enhance customer experience while managing network congestion as the operator continues expanding its infrastructure.

By launching VoWiFi nationwide, BSNL joins other telecom providers like Reliance Jio, Bharti Airtel, and Vodafone Idea that already offer Wi‑Fi calling. This rollout aligns with the company’s broader strategy to modernize its network, strengthen coverage in underserved areas, and prepare for future 4G and advanced network developments.

BSNL’s nationwide VoWiFi service is expected to significantly improve call quality and reliability, particularly in regions with limited cellular connectivity, helping the operator bridge digital gaps while providing seamless communication for its customers.

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Indian AI channel ‘Bandar Apna Dost’ tops YouTube

An India-based YouTube channel, Bandar Apna Dost, has become the world’s most-viewed channel producing AI-generated “slop” content, earning an estimated $4.25 million (₹35–38 crore) a year, according to a recent global study.

The finding is part of a report by video-editing platform Kapwing, which analysed nearly 15,000 popular YouTube channels worldwide to track the rise of low-effort, automated content. Such videos are typically created using AI tools with minimal human input and are designed mainly to maximise clicks, watch time, and advertising revenue.

Bandar Apna Dost topped the global list with over 2 billion views and several million subscribers. The channel features short animated videos centred on a cartoon monkey and a muscular, superhero-like character, placed in exaggerated, humorous situations. The videos are simple, repetitive, and easy to produce at scale.

The report identified 278 fully AI-driven channels on YouTube. Together, they have generated more than 63 billion views and attracted over 220 million subscribers, underlining how quickly AI-based content is expanding on the platform.

Kapwing’s analysis also pointed to the role of YouTube’s recommendation system. Around 20 percent of videos suggested to new users fall into the AI slop category. On YouTube Shorts, this share rises to nearly one-third, indicating that such content is strongly favoured by algorithms focused on engagement.

Industry observers say the success of channels like Bandar Apna Dost shows how AI has dramatically reduced the time, cost, and skill required to build a large online audience. At the same time, critics warn that the growing dominance of automated content could reduce visibility for original, human-created videos and reshape incentives for creators.

The rise of this Indian channel highlights a broader shift in digital media, where algorithm-friendly, AI-generated videos are becoming a major driver of views and revenue on global platforms.

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OpenAI offers Rs 5 crore AI safety job

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has raised concerns about the safety of advanced AI models, saying that AI systems are becoming more capable and could cause problems if not carefully managed. He highlighted that some AI models are now starting to find weaknesses in systems, which could potentially be misused.

To tackle these challenges, OpenAI is hiring a “Head of Preparedness”, a top-level role aimed at making AI safer. The company is offering around Rs 5 crore (USD 555,000) plus equity for this position. Altman himself described it as a “stressful job,” given the high responsibility involved.

The person chosen for this role will look for risks in AI systems, plan ways to reduce those risks, and make sure AI behaves safely as it becomes more powerful. They will also track potential threats, like AI being misused in cyber attacks or other dangerous scenarios. This role will be part of OpenAI’s broader Safety Systems team.

Altman stressed that while it is relatively easy to measure what AI can do, it is much harder to predict how AI could be misused. The role will require careful planning, monitoring, and quick decision-making to prevent possible harm.

This move shows that OpenAI is taking AI safety seriously, not just focusing on creating new technologies. As AI grows more advanced, experts like this will be crucial to ensure the technology is used responsibly.

Altman’s public statements also reflect a wider concern in the tech industry: as AI becomes more capable, companies need to balance innovation with safety to avoid unintended consequences.

OpenAI’s job opening and Altman’s warnings highlight that keeping AI safe is now as important as developing it, and the company is looking for top talent to take on this challenge.

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Ex‑Google founders pivot to AI, launch $100mn startup

Two former Google employees, Dhruv Amin and Marcus Lowe, have turned the rise of AI tools like ChatGPT into a business opportunity. The duo initially ran Create, a platform connecting startups with freelance developers, which generated over $2 million annually. However, the launch of ChatGPT in late 2022 prompted them to rethink the future of coding and software development.

Seeing the potential for AI to automate much of the work their developers did, Amin and Lowe decided to close their existing marketplace in October 2023. They laid off half their small team and ended relationships with freelancers. “Within two weeks, we were back to an empty office,” Amin recalled.

From this reset, they rebuilt their company around AI-driven solutions. Their first products helped generate basic app components like forms and calendars. By April 2025, their rebranded startup, Anything, launched a more advanced platform capable of building complete online businesses, including backend systems and payment integrations, without users needing to write code.

The platform quickly gained traction. Within two weeks of the broader launch, Anything achieved an annualized revenue run rate of $2 million. Investor interest followed, resulting in $11 million in funding and a valuation of around $100 million.

Non-technical users have already built real applications on the platform, such as a salon booking app and a dental health tracker. While AI coding remains an emerging sector, Amin believes embracing the technology early positioned their company for growth and relevance in a rapidly evolving market.

Looking back, he described the decision to shut down their profitable business as difficult but strategic. Their story illustrates how AI tools like ChatGPT are reshaping entrepreneurship, enabling rapid innovation and entirely new business models.

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WhatsApp status gets AI photo makeover

WhatsApp is preparing to roll out AI-powered tools that allow users to creatively edit photos shared in their Status updates. With Meta AI integration, these features aim to make photo editing seamless and more imaginative, eliminating the need for third-party apps.

Currently, the tools are being tested in WhatsApp beta versions on both Android and iOS. Selected users can access an upgraded editing interface within the Status creation screen. Unlike traditional filters or stickers, the AI tools offer advanced transformations that can completely restyle or modify images.

The feature includes artistic themes such as Anime, Comic, Clay, Painting, 3D, and Kawaii. Instead of simply applying an overlay, the AI recreates the photo in the selected style. Users can also tap a “Redo” button to generate multiple variations until they find the preferred effect.

In addition to visual styles, the AI editor supports prompt-based editing. Users can type instructions to add or remove objects, tweak backgrounds, or enhance specific elements. The system fills in missing areas naturally, ensuring the edited photos look polished and realistic.

Another feature under testing is photo animation. Static images can be transformed into short animated visuals, adding movement and making Status updates more dynamic and engaging. This allows users to highlight moments in a lively, expressive way.

The rollout is gradual, starting with beta testers and eventually expanding to wider audiences after feedback and adjustments. Some users on stable app versions may also get early access in phases.

When fully launched, these Meta AI tools are expected to make WhatsApp Status a more creative space, enabling users to share and personalize photos effortlessly without leaving the app.

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