Apple announces annual ‘WWDC25’ to showcase latest software advancementsIANS
Tech giant Apple on Wednesday announced it will host its annual Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) online from June 9 to 13.
Developers and students will also have the opportunity to celebrate in person during a special event at Apple Park on June 9, the company said in a statement.
Available for free to all developers, WWDC25 will spotlight the latest advancements in Apple software.
As part of Apple’s ongoing commitment to supporting developers, the conference will provide them with unique access to Apple experts, as well as insight into new tools, frameworks, and features.
“We’re excited to mark another incredible year of WWDC with our global developer community,” said Susan Prescott, Apple’s vice president of Worldwide Developer Relations.
“We can’t wait to share the latest tools and technologies that will empower developers and help them continue to innovate,” Prescott added.
Developers and students will be able to discover the latest Apple software and technologies by tuning in to the Keynote.
Apple announces annual ‘WWDC25’ to showcase latest software advancementsIANS
They can also experience WWDC25 throughout the week on the Apple Developer app, Apple Developer website, and Apple Developer YouTube channel. This year’s conference will include video sessions and opportunities to connect with Apple engineers and designers in online labs.
“Apple is proud to support the next generation of developers through the Swift Student Challenge, one of many Apple programmes that seek to uplift the next generation of entrepreneurs, coders, and designers,” it said.
On March 27, this year’s applicants will be notified of their status, and winners will be eligible to apply for the special event at Apple Park.
In addition, 50 distinguished winners, who are recognised for outstanding submissions, will be invited to Cupertino, California, for a three-day experience, said the company in its statement.
“A Bend In The Road Is Not The End Of The Road, Unless You Fail To Make The Turn.” – Helen Keller
Preamble
The history of roads stretches back as far as human civilization itself. From the moment early humans ventured out of their caves, the need for paths to navigate their environment began to emerge. Initially, these pathways were rudimentary, shaped by the natural terrain and the movement of people and animals. As societies grew more complex, these paths evolved into more structured and formal routes. With the invention of the wheel, the scope of travel expanded exponentially, allowing people to journey across greater distances and explore larger areas. This transformation marked a significant leap in human mobility.
However, the true revolution in road systems came with the rise of automobiles in the early 1900s. The widespread use of motor vehicles radically changed how people travelled, necessitating a complete overhaul of the existing infrastructure. Roads, which had previously been designed for foot traffic and horse-drawn carriages, now had to accommodate the speed and volume of modern vehicles. This shift fundamentally reshaped the transportation landscape, making the road system integral to the mobility revolution.
Today, we stand on the brink of another major transformation driven by the rise of smart cities. Smart cities leverage cutting-edge technologies to create more efficient, sustainable, and liveable urban environments. Among the many technical factors shaping this transformation—such as advanced connectivity, cloud computing, data analytics, sensors, the Internet of Things (IoT), and artificial intelligence—one of the most significant areas of focus is the modernization of road infrastructure.
Smart roads are at the heart of this transformation. These roads are being designed and built to integrate seamlessly with new technologies that enhance mobility, safety, and sustainability. For example, sensors embedded in the road can collect data in real time, providing information about traffic conditions, weather, and road wear. This data can be used to optimize traffic flow, reduce accidents, and improve overall transportation efficiency. In addition, smart roads are designed to work with electric vehicles, offering charging stations along the route and incorporating renewable energy sources like solar panels to power infrastructure.
As part of the broader concept of smart cities, these advancements in road technologies are not just about making roads safer and more efficient; they are about creating a future-ready mobility network capable of supporting the next generation of vehicles, including autonomous cars and smart transportation systems. The roadways of tomorrow will be intelligent, adaptive, and integral to the future of urban mobility, creating a seamless and interconnected transport ecosystem that benefits residents, travelers, and the environment. The future of road infrastructure is not far off, and it will play a critical role in shaping the cities of tomorrow.
Smart Road Technologies
Although society has witnessed dramatic advancements in mobility technologies and a significant increase in the number of vehicles on the road, leading to various traffic issues such as accidents and frequent congestion, roads—despite being the lifeblood of modern societies and economies—are still often seen as traditional civil and structural engineering projects. However, in recent decades, numerous technological innovations have emerged that challenge this conventional view and aim to address the pressing challenges of today’s road infrastructure.
The technology trend in road construction is rapidly evolving toward creating roads more “sensitive to their surroundings”. This is achieved by embedding a variety of sensors into the roads and developing a networked road system that operates with greater efficiency and effectiveness. Such advanced road systems seamlessly integrate into the fabric of futuristic smart cities, becoming an essential part of them. These next-generation roads are being designed by merging cutting-edge technologies—such as sensors, microprocessor chips, and high-end electronics—with traditional road construction methods. These technologies are then connected to a centralized server, enabling real-time communication and data updates.
With these advancements, traditional roads are evolving into smart roads capable of communicating not only with their surroundings but also with the vehicles travelling on them. They harness energy, maintain constant communication with a central server, and provide real-time updates. This dynamic flow of information will be pivotal in improving current traffic management and addressing issues such as congestion, disorganized traffic flow, and accidents. Moreover, these systems can quickly respond to emergencies like stampedes, traffic violations, and accident management. Artificial Intelligence (AI) can further optimize traffic flow by adjusting adaptive traffic lights and coordinating various roadways to ensure smoother vehicle movement.
The data collected through these smart systems can also be utilized for long-term analysis, enhancing road conditions, improving sustainability, and even reducing CO2 emissions by optimizing vehicle and energy use. These developments will not only make roads safer and more efficient but will also play a pivotal role in the transition to greener, more sustainable transportation systems.
We are entering an era where the “information superhighways”—which include connectivity, Internet, and data grids—will merge with physical transportation highways—the roads themselves—creating “living and intelligent roads”. Unlike today’s “dead and dumb” infrastructure, these new roads will interact dynamically with their environment, enhancing every aspect of urban mobility. To better understand this transformation, we need to examine recent advancements in road technology, such as the incorporation of electronics to make roads smart, intelligent, and responsive. Additionally, new technologies for energy harvesting from solar radiation and vehicle movement are helping make roads more sustainable.
While these innovations currently address specific challenges in today’s mobility systems, they represent only the beginning. As new technologies continue developing and integrating with existing infrastructures, they will ultimately create a new mobility ecosystem. In this future world, smart, intelligent, connected, and communicative roads will play an even more critical and central role in shaping how we move, communicate, and interact with our urban environments.
Roads Which Talk To Surrounding (R2X)
While Mobile networks have made significant inroads into the vehicular space, particularly through vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) communication, which allows vehicles to communicate directly with one another, the broader concept of Road-to-Everything (R2X) is emerging as a key advancement in road communication technologies. R2X extends the communication network beyond vehicles, enabling roads to interact with other objects or entities moving on them or in their vicinity, including pedestrians, bicycles, and even drones. The importance of R2X lies in its ability to enable smart roads to communicate and exchange critical data, such as real-time information on weather conditions, traffic congestion, road conditions, traffic density, and the health of the road itself (e.g., damage, wear and tear). Additionally, R2X can share details like vehicle speed, physical presence, or road usage. This real-time flow of data can be used to send alerts to vehicles about potential hazards or traffic disruptions ahead, giving drivers and automated systems ample time to respond and take preventive measures. Such a communication network not only enhances road safety by helping vehicles avoid accidents but also contributes to the broader goal of improving the efficiency and sustainability of transportation systems. By enabling vehicles to react to real-time data, R2X helps reduce traffic congestion, enhance traffic flow, and optimise routing decisions. Furthermore, it provides opportunities for better accident prevention, more efficient emergency responses, and overall safer driving experiences for everyone on the road. In short, the R2X framework is pivotal in creating an ecosystem where roads are active participants in managing and maintaining road safety, ensuring the smooth operation of traffic, and ultimately contributing to a more intelligent and connected transportation infrastructure.
Musical Roads
Musical roads, a fascinating innovation in road design, are engineered to produce music or tunes when vehicles pass over them at a certain speed. These roads are typically constructed with grooves or rumble strips embedded in the road surface, spaced at precise intervals, which, when driven over, create a rhythmic sound corresponding to specific musical notes. Countries such as Japan, USA, Denmark, Netherlands, Taiwan, and South Korea have pioneered the construction of these roads, creating unique driving experiences that blend functionality with auditory art. The primary purpose of musical roads is to serve as a safety feature. The sound generated by the grooves acts as an alert to drivers, particularly on high-speed roads, to maintain the speed limit or stay within safe driving thresholds. The music is designed to play at the ideal speed, acting as an auditory cue to prevent drivers from speeding. In some cases, the melodies are crafted to enhance driver awareness and encourage safe driving behaviors. Additionally, these roads may also be used in specific areas to warn of hazards such as sharp turns, construction zones, or areas with pedestrian traffic. However, while musical roads can serve as helpful reminders for drivers, they do come with certain challenges. One significant concern is the potential for disturbance to nearby residents, especially at night. The repetitive nature of the sounds can be intrusive, particularly in quieter suburban or rural areas. As a result, many musical roads have been limited to highways, long country roads, or less densely populated areas, where the noise is less likely to disrupt daily life. In some cases, their use has been restricted or limited to specific times of day to mitigate potential disturbances to local communities. The concept of musical roads has been part of a broader trend of integrating artificial sensory features into road design, merging functionality with creativity. While their primary role is safety and driver awareness, they also add an element of innovation that makes driving a more engaging experience. As this technology evolves, future implementations will likely balance functionality with community concerns, potentially incorporating features like volume controls or dynamic sound modulation to reduce noise disturbance while still serving their purpose of improving road safety.
Wireless Digital Traffic Signs
Road signs have been an integral part of traffic management for centuries, serving as essential tools for guiding drivers and ensuring road safety. However, despite their long-standing presence, significant challenges remain regarding their proper placement and the effectiveness with which drivers can read, understand, and respond to them. In countries like India, there are over 110 road signs; in the USA, there are around 60; and in the UK, the number rises to 170. With such a wide array of signs, it can be overwhelming for drivers to remember, interpret, and act on them in real time, especially when navigating unfamiliar roads or under stressful conditions. The advent of smart road technology has provided a solution to many of these challenges by introducing programmable, connected road signs. These smart signs are embedded with chips that can be remotely controlled and connected to a centralized Traffic Management System (TMS). This system enables the dynamic broadcasting of messages to oncoming traffic in real time, ensuring that the correct information is provided when needed. Unlike traditional static road signs, smart signposts can be programmed to update instantly, allowing for more flexible communication with drivers based on current road conditions or emergencies. When a smart sign broadcasts a message, vehicles equipped with receiving units can detect and interpret the signal. This allows the vehicle to alert the driver and take necessary actions, such as slowing down, changing lanes, or preparing for an obstacle ahead. Beyond just displaying a message, these systems also integrate data from a cloud-based traffic analytics system. The cloud system collects and analyzes data from numerous vehicles on the road to predict and provide real-time traffic information, ensuring that the driver receives accurate, context-aware instructions. This additional layer of intelligence helps ensure that the right action is taken, based on not just the signs themselves, but the broader traffic environment. This technology offers several significant advantages. First, it reduces the need for drivers to constantly monitor road signs, especially in situations where visibility is poor, such as during bad weather, night time driving, or blocked roads. By providing alerts directly to the vehicle, the system minimizes distractions and allows the driver to focus on the road. The reliance on the driver’s judgment is also reduced, as the vehicle can help interpret the meaning of the sign and recommend the proper action based on real-time conditions. Additionally, the ability to remotely program and update these signs brings immense flexibility to road management. For instance, in cases of traffic congestion, road closures, or emergency events, the messages on the signs can be quickly adapted to provide up-to-date instructions to drivers. This is far more efficient than physically replacing or adjusting traditional signs. Furthermore, unlike image-processing programs used in some road safety technologies, the use of smart signposts with programmable chips doesn’t require complex algorithms for interpretation, making it easier to deploy and manage across a wide area. Another major advantage is the use of real-time traffic volume data, which can be automatically computed and incorporated into the system. By analyzing data from multiple vehicles, the traffic management system can provide insights into traffic flow and congestion patterns, which can be used to optimize road usage and improve overall traffic efficiency. For instance, when heavy traffic is detected, the system could adjust the signs to provide alternative routes or adjust speed limits to prevent bottlenecks. This intelligent use of data also improves the accuracy of traffic management decisions, helping to reduce delays, increase safety, and enhance the overall driving experience. In conclusion, the integration of smart, programmable road signs with connected vehicles and centralized traffic management systems represents a significant leap forward in traffic management technology. This system not only improves road safety and efficiency but also reduces the cognitive load on drivers by providing them with real-time, actionable information in a seamless and intuitive manner. The shift from static to dynamic, data-driven signage is a key step toward a smarter, safer, and more efficient transportation system for the future.
Roads with Smart Intersections
Road intersections have long been hotspots for accidents due to issues like blind spots, unexpected light changes, and obstructions from vehicles coming from different directions. These challenges complicate a driver’s ability to make quick, informed decisions, increasing the risk of collisions. To address these concerns, the concept of smart intersections has emerged, where technology plays a crucial role in enhancing safety and optimizing traffic flow. A smart intersection integrates multiple sensors installed at each crossroads, which work in tandem with a vehicle’s R2X (Road-to-Everything) connectivity. The “X” in R2X represents any object in the vehicle’s surroundings, including parked vehicles, moving vehicles, pedestrians, buildings, dividers, traffic poles, and more. These sensors continuously monitor the environment, providing real-time data about the intersection and surrounding traffic conditions. By combining this data with the vehicle’s connectivity, a real-time map of the situation is generated and shared with the vehicle and driver, offering crucial information that helps the driver make quick and informed judgments. For instance, the system could alert the driver about vehicles approaching from blind spots, pedestrians crossing, or even a traffic light about to change, helping to avoid potential accidents. In addition to improving driver safety, artificial intelligence (AI) can also be applied to smart intersections to enhance traffic management further. By analyzing data collected from various sensors, smart intersections can assess traffic density, roadway conditions, and current traffic flow in real time. This data allows the system to dynamically adjust traffic signal timings across multiple intersections to optimize the flow of traffic, reduce congestion, and improve overall road efficiency. For example, if there is heavy traffic in one direction, the system could extend the green light for that direction while minimizing wait times for other directions, or it could prioritize emergency vehicles in real-time. This combination of real-time sensor data, vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication, and AI-driven traffic optimization transforms traditional intersections into highly responsive, intelligent hubs. These intersections not only enhance safety by preventing accidents but also improve the efficiency of urban transportation systems, reducing traffic congestion and enabling smoother commutes. In the future, as smart intersections evolve and become more integrated with broader city infrastructure, they will play a key role in building smart cities. Through constant data sharing, adaptive systems, and connected networks, these intersections will ensure a safer, more efficient, and dynamic driving experience for all road users.
With Fast Emergency Rescue
Road accidents have become one of the most pressing issues globally, escalating with the rise in the number of automobiles on the road. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 1.3 million people lose their lives every year due to road accidents, and an estimated 20 to 50 million others suffer from physical disabilities as a result. This alarming trend is particularly prevalent in India, where road accidents and related fatalities rank among the highest in the world. A critical factor in improving the survival rate of accident victims is the concept of the “golden hour”—the time period that elapses between the accident and the arrival of medical assistance. This window is crucial, as prompt medical intervention can significantly increase the chances of survival and reduce the severity of injuries. The quicker the response, the better the chances of saving lives and preventing long-term disabilities. With the advent of smart road technologies and the increasing connectivity of vehicles through various communication channels such as R2I (Road-to-Infrastructure), R2N(Road-to-Network), R2E(Road-to-Everything), R2P (Road-to-Pedestrian), R2C (Road-to-Cloud), and R2H (Road-to-Hospital), it is possible to drastically reduce this crucial response time. Through these technologies, automatic crash notifications can be triggered immediately upon impact, along with the geo-location of the accident, which can be sent in real-time to all relevant agencies involved in handling the situation, including emergency responders, medical teams, and traffic authorities. This immediate, data-driven response system has the potential to revolutionize emergency response times. With real-time data being shared, medical teams can prepare ahead of time, ensuring they arrive at the scene fully equipped to handle the injuries. Additionally, this seamless integration of technologies could help direct ambulances to the accident site via the fastest route, bypassing traffic and reducing delays. By leveraging smart road infrastructure and vehicle connectivity, we can drastically improve the efficiency and timeliness of emergency responses, ultimately saving lives and reducing the long-term impact of road accidents.
On-Road Weighing of The Vehicles
With in-built weighing sensors embedded in smart roads, it is now possible to weigh transportation goods carriers while they are in motion. This technology, known as WIM (Weigh-In-Motion), offers a significant advantage by addressing two major concerns: overloading hazards on the roads and the wasted waiting time at traditional weighbridges. In the WIM system, multiple sensors are strategically placed across one or more traffic lanes. These sensors work together to measure various critical parameters, such as axle loading and vehicle loading, in real-time, all while the vehicle remains in motion. This allows for the continuous monitoring of each vehicle’s weight without the need for it to stop or slow down for inspection. As a result, the risk of overloaded vehicles—which can cause damage to road infrastructure and increase the likelihood of accidents due to reduced braking efficiency—is significantly reduced. Furthermore, WIM technology helps eliminate the need for traditional weigh-bridges, which require vehicles to stop and undergo manual weighing. This process often leads to significant delays, especially in high-traffic areas. Automating the weighing process on the move allows vehicles to be monitored seamlessly without disrupting traffic flow, reducing congestion and travel time. In addition to axle and vehicle weight, WIM systems can capture interrelated parameters such as vehicle speed, tire pressure, and even load distribution, offering a comprehensive understanding of the vehicle’s condition. This data can be used for real-time analysis, enabling authorities to flag vehicles that exceed weight limits or display potentially unsafe conditions without impeding traffic. Moreover, this collected data can be sent directly to the relevant authorities, who can take immediate action if necessary. By incorporating Weigh-In-Motion technology, smart roads can contribute to safer, more efficient, and sustainable transportation systems. This innovation not only protects road infrastructure from damage but also enhances road safety and reduces unnecessary delays, creating smoother travel experiences for all road users.
Traffic Violations
As roads become smart, equipped with sensors, communication systems, and connectivity with vehicles, traditional methods of detecting traffic violations may become obsolete. In the past, enforcement relied on manual monitoring, cameras, or law enforcement presence, but vehicle-to-everything (V2X) connectivity allows for more sophisticated, automated solutions. On smart roads, vehicles are constantly connected to each other and the Centralized Traffic Management System (CTMS). This real-time communication makes it easier to track violations such as speeding, running red lights, or illegal turns. Data from these vehicles is transmitted to the central system, where violations are immediately processed and analyzed. Additionally, the system can send real-time alerts to drivers about potential violations, like approaching red lights, helping them adjust their actions before an incident occurs. Automatic alarms can also be triggered for violations, which are then sent to law enforcement for swift action. Smart roads also enable predictive enforcement, using data to anticipate where violations are likely to occur based on traffic patterns and weather conditions. This allows for preventive measures, like adjusting traffic signals or rerouting vehicles to improve safety. In short, smart roads improve traffic violation detection, making enforcement more efficient, responsive, and effective, leading to safer, smoother roads.
Energy Harvesting & Charging of Electric Vehicles
Roads are increasingly being recognized as a valuable resource for solar & kinetic & frictional energy harvesting due to two key factors. First, their vast surface area is constantly exposed to solar radiation, making them ideal for capturing solar energy. Second, the continuous movement of vehicles across the road surfaces results in significant dissipation of kinetic and frictional energy. This combination of factors offers a unique opportunity to harness energy directly from the roadways. To capture solar energy, heavy-duty and rugged photovoltaic (PV) modules are integrated directly into the road surfaces, creating what are known as solar roads. These roads contribute to renewable energy generation and help reduce the surrounding infrastructure’s carbon footprint. Piezoelectric roads use devices embedded beneath the surface that convert mechanical energy into electrical energy to harvest kinetic and frictional energy from moving vehicles. These piezoelectric devices respond to pressure changes caused by passing vehicles, generating power in real-time. With the rise of electric vehicles (EVs), there has been a growing need for accessible and widespread charging infrastructure. EVs require regular recharging, but finding a charging station can be challenging in many areas, particularly rural regions or along long stretches of expressways. This has spurred interest in creating roads that can charge EVs while they are in motion, offering a convenient solution for recharging during travel. The concept of charging roads has become a focal point for innovation, aiming to eliminate the need for stationary charging stations and make EVs more convenient.
In 2016, France became a pioneer in this field by constructing the world’s first solar road. The 2,880 square meter stretch of road, located in Tourouvre-au-Perche, was covered with solar panels and used the generated electricity to power streetlights along the route. This ambitious project marked a milestone in the development of solar road technology. Since then, several other countries, including the United States, Sweden, China, the UK, and Japan, have followed suit by developing pilot projects and testing different types of energy-harvesting roads. These countries are conducting trials to assess the viability and efficiency of various road-based energy systems. While France has led the way with solar roads, Sweden has taken a different approach with its “electrified roads.” In 2018, a 1.2-mile stretch of road near Stockholm was transformed into a dynamic charging highway using magnetic induction technology. Cables buried under the road surface create electromagnetic fields, which are strong enough to be captured by a receiver in the vehicle. The receiver converts this energy into electrical power, which charges the vehicle’s battery while it is in motion. This innovative solution allows vehicles to recharge without needing to stop, significantly improving the convenience of EV travel.
Additionally, countries like China have been experimenting with other types of road-based energy systems, such as those that combine solar energy and wireless charging technologies. These projects explore the possibility of creating smart roads that can not only generate energy but also provide data services like traffic management and real-time weather updates. The future of energy-harvesting roads holds promise for a more sustainable transportation infrastructure that can reduce our reliance on fossil fuels and improve the efficiency of electric vehicles.
As the development of solar and piezoelectric roads progresses, it’s becoming clear that these innovations have the potential to revolutionize the way we think about road infrastructure. By transforming roads into power-generating assets, we could create a future where transportation is cleaner, more efficient, and more integrated with renewable energy systems. With continued advancements in technology, we may soon see a widespread adoption of energy-harvesting roads, changing the landscape of transportation as we know it.
Roads with Smart Lighting
The first smart street lighting system was deployed in Oslo, Norway, in 2006, with the aim of optimizing street lighting based on factors like daylight, weather conditions, and traffic movement, all to conserve energy. Today, most street lights have been upgraded to energy-efficient LEDs, with additional technologies such as sensors and Wi-Fi integrated into the control units. These sensors detect the presence of pedestrians and vehicles, enabling the system to turn the lights on or off as needed, ensuring energy is used only when required while maintaining sufficient illumination for safety (i.e., on-demand lighting). The addition of wireless connectivity has further enhanced the system, allowing street lights to be interconnected and form networks. This connectivity enables remote control and dynamic pairing or grouping of lights based on traffic and environmental conditions, enhancing both energy efficiency and functionality.
Smart Road Lighting
Indian Scenario & Challenges
Having missed out on the technological advancements and, more importantly, the Great Automobile Boom that followed World War II, India faced significant challenges in modernizing its outdated road infrastructure during its formative years. While the country had a growing need for better roads, this demand became more pronounced starting in the 1980s with the introduction of the Maruti 800, India’s first new-age automobile, which was developed in collaboration with Suzuki Motor Co. of Japan. This compact car marked a turning point, as it became a symbol of India’s emerging automobile market, highlighting the need for more efficient and safer roads to accommodate the growing number of vehicles.
However, the real momentum for revamping the country’s road infrastructure began around 1995, when India opened up its automobile market to global players, spurring an influx of international automotive brands and technology. With the arrival of world-class vehicles and increased competition, there was an urgent need to modernize the road network to support these advanced automobiles. This period marked the beginning of significant improvements in road infrastructure, including the construction of highways, urban expressways, and better-maintained rural roads. The automotive industry’s growth became a catalyst for the government to prioritize infrastructure development, not just to accommodate modern vehicles but also to enhance the overall economic growth of the country.
The shift toward more comprehensive and modern road planning, combined with technological advancements, set the foundation for a more connected and efficient transportation network that would support India’s expanding economy and growing automobile market. As global automotive trends took hold, India’s roads slowly began to evolve from their outdated systems into more sophisticated infrastructure capable of supporting the country’s rapid industrialization and urbanization.
Despite the best efforts of all stakeholders involved in infrastructure development, it is important to recognize that while India ranks second globally, after the United States, in terms of the absolute length of its road network, it lags significantly in terms of road quality and design. Only about 69% of India’s roads are surfaced, and even these do not meet global standards. The roads in India have historically been neglected in all aspects—design, construction, and maintenance. They remain some of the most abused infrastructures in the country, facing numerous challenges such as rapid urbanization, heavy traffic flow, overloading, and public misuse. As a result, navigating the Indian road network can often feel like a nightmare, with poor road conditions and congestion contributing to the frustration.
With the impressive length of the network, India’s road infrastructure is still far from achieving even basic standards of efficiency or smart functionality. In this context, it is essential that the Indian government, along with engineers and infrastructure developers, shift their focus not only toward building smart cities but also toward transforming existing roads—many of which will serve as the arteries of these future cities—into smart and intelligent road networks. As the number of vehicles continues to rise, it is critical that these roadways evolve to meet the needs of modern transportation. If India’s road network can be upgraded to smart and intelligent systems, it will play a crucial role in enhancing the performance and functionality of smart cities. Otherwise, the outdated infrastructure could become a significant bottleneck, limiting the efficiency and growth of urban centers in the future. Thus, ensuring that road infrastructure is integrated with the latest technology is key to the success of both transportation and urban development in India’s rapidly evolving cities.
Top 20 Countries with Largest Road Lengths
Top 20 Countries with No. Of Vehicles/ KM of Road
Top 20 Countries with Road Density (KM/ Sq. KM of Area)
Top 20 Countries with No. Of Vehicle/ Per Person
To move to smart & intelligent roads even in a smaller way, India faces tremendous challenges India is taking smaller steps one by one to begin its journey. In its very first attempt an Indian team from HP Lubricants and Leo Burnett India, has put a set of proto type “SmartLife” poles on NH1 (one of the most dangerous roads in the world & which connecting Jammu and Srinagar). These poles installed on the two side of hairpin bends, gauge the speed of approaching vehicles & communicate with each other to alert both the drivers by sounding a horn. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Id9OOlO4aRM).
However, modernizing the Indian roads is a herculean task for the government & may take years but it is certainly one of the high priority subjects. The time is right when India is investing heavily in infrastructure development in which the creation of smart roads with cutting-edge technologies could be easily merged. This would help India to make a leapfrog and catch up with the rest of the world. Also since India already has an ambitious target of converting 70% of all commercial cars, 30% of private cars, 40% of buses, and 80% of 2W/ 3W sales to EVs by 2030, the current road plan, as well as future road plans, must be made considering this fact in mind as smart roads would certainly be the requirements of matching the needs of future automobiles and other mobility systems which need to get integrated seamlessly with smart roads of future.
Epilogue
Although road technology in India has evolved slowly compared to other components of the mobility network, the Government of India’s focus on building world-class infrastructure, combined with the rising demand for electric vehicles (EVs), presents an ideal opportunity for this critical subsystem of the mobility network to become “smart.” Transforming India’s roads into intelligent systems will lead to increased automation, greater energy efficiency, reduced costs, enhanced safety, cleaner air, a greener environment, less traffic congestion, and fewer accidents and fatalities. In turn, this will significantly improve the quality of life for citizens. Roads should no longer be considered static infrastructure; instead, they must be viewed as a “dynamic and intelligent subsystem” of society. These smart roads should be able to sense their surroundings, monitor conditions, and respond proactively to various situations. The roads should be capable of real-time communication with a central server to provide regular updates on traffic conditions, road load, weather, accidents, and their exact location, among other variables. The possibilities are endless, and such advancements would make city operations more efficient and smoother. In the cities of the future, “the information grid,” “the electric grid,” and “the transportation grid” may merge into a cohesive, living neural system that powers smart cities. In this ecosystem, the Central Control Room would serve as the “brain,” while the smart road grids would act as the “central nervous system“. The EVs and connected autonomous electric vehicles (CAEVs) forming the transportation grid would represent the “hands and legs,” and the flow of information and power would serve as the “blood” circulating throughout this virtual ecosystem, creating a truly smart city—alive, responsive, and efficient.
Advances in smart roads for future smart cities by Chai K. Toh, Julio A. Sanguesa, Juan C. Cano and Francisco J. Martinez, GLG Group, San Francisco, CA, USA, Department of Computer Science, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan, Department of Computer Science, Centro Universitario de la Defensa, Zaragoza, Spain, Department of Computer Engineering (DISCA), Universitat Politecnica de Valencia, Valencia, Spain, Computer Science and System Engineering Department, University of Zaragoza, Teruel, Spain (royalsocietypublishing.org/journal/rspa)
“Paving The Way Forward – Intelligent Road Infrastructure” by Suman A Sehra, Global Director, IoT Smart Cities and Transportation, Intel Corporation
A History Of Roads From Ancient Times To The Motor Age A Thesis Submitted In Partial Fulfillment Of The Requirements For The Degree Of Master Of Science In Civil Engineering By Herbert Reinhold Jacobson Georgia School Of Technology Atlanta, Georgia (1940)
Road To Sustainable Smart Cities Challenges, Opportunities And Emerging Trends by KPMG, March 21
Smart Roads: A Vision/ Discission Paper-Jan/2015 by Elena De La Pena, Dy Director General for Technical Affairs, Spanish Road Association, Chair, TC1 Smart Mobility)
HCLTech announced the launch of HCLTech FlexSpace for AI PCs in collaboration with Intel. This innovative solution enhances AI-powered enterprise computers, offering businesses the computing power and flexibility needed for AI-driven environments.
By integrating HCLTech FlexSpace, an Experience-as-a-Service digital workplace solution, with Intel Core Ultra processors, enterprises can perform AI tasks locally on devices, ensuring faster and more secure processing. This reduces the need for data transfers to remote servers, minimising data breach risks.
FlexSpace significantly improves the performance of advanced AI platforms, enabling faster, more responsive interactions and superior data processing for applications like Microsoft Co-Pilot. With HCLTech AI Force and Edge AI, enterprises benefit from rapid data processing and real-time analytics, providing actionable insights. Additionally, AI of Things (AIoT) applications experience reduced latency and improved performance.
“At Intel, we are committed to delivering transformative solutions that address the evolving needs of modern workplaces. Our collaboration with HCLTech on their FlexSpace solution combines the power of Intel’s AI PCs with HCLTech’s industry-leading IT services. This collaboration not only meets the critical need for advanced workplace solutions but also enhances customer experiences by delivering unmatched performance, scalability, and security. Together, we are shaping the future of workplace transformation,” said Santhosh Vishwanathan, Vice President and Managing Director, India Region, Intel.
“At HCLTech, we aim to revolutionise enterprise AI interaction with advanced, scalable solutions that enhance efficiency and innovation. Our collaboration with Intel on FlexSpace for AI PCs is a key step in helping clients fully leverage AI while ensuring top-tier security and performance,” said Anand Swamy, Head of Tech and ISV Ecosystems, HCLTech.
HCLTech continues to deliver intelligent workplace solutions through its HCLTech Fluid Workplace framework, leveraging Intel’s Core Ultra processors to empower enterprises to streamline workflows, make data-driven decisions and accelerate innovation across healthcare, finance and manufacturing.
Groundbreaking advances in automated RF validation are reshaping the wireless technology landscape, according to new research published in the International Journal of Computer Engineering and Technology. The comprehensive study by Amit Sant presents detailed insights into how robotic systems are transforming traditional testing methodologies.
Rise of Smart Testing Modern wireless technology Modern wireless technology testing has evolved dramatically, moving beyond basic parameter verification to encompass comprehensive system-level validation. Advanced robotic systems now achieve positioning accuracies of ±0.1mm while maintaining RF transparency in testing environments, enabling precise and reliable measurements across multiple wireless protocols.
These systems incorporate specialized RF-transparent end effectors and motion planning algorithms that minimize electromagnetic interference during measurement sequences. The integration of multiple control loops ensures both mechanical precision and RF measurement accuracy, while distributed control systems synchronize robotic movements with precise temporal alignment.
Precision Meets Intelligence The integration of artificial intelligence with test automation has yielded remarkable improvements in wireless technology validation. These smart systems can predict test execution effort with accuracy rates exceeding 85%, while reducing test generation time by 60% compared to conventional methods. The implementation of neural networks for pattern recognition has significantly decreased false positive rates in anomaly detection by up to 75%. These AI-driven systems leverage sophisticated algorithms to identify critical test scenarios and optimize test execution sequences for complex wireless systems. Through continuous learning from historical test data, the systems adapt to changing test conditions and adjust execution strategies accordingly, ensuring optimal performance across diverse testing environments.
Breaking Performance Barriers Recent innovations in testing frameworks have demonstrated unprecedented capabilities in handling multiple protocols simultaneously. Success rates have improved from 65% to 92% through automated test sequence generation and execution. These frameworks support parallel testing across various wireless technologies, while achieving test coverage exceeding 95% with reduced test sequence lengths.
Quality Assurance Reimagined Modern calibration systems have transformed quality control processes, reducing calibration time by 45% while improving accuracy by 30%. Advanced environmental control systems maintain consistent test conditions with prediction accuracies exceeding 92% for critical parameters, ensuring reliable and repeatable results across validation cycles.
Future-Ready Technology The testing landscape continues to evolve with emerging technologies requiring validation across frequency ranges beyond 100 GHz and timing precision in the sub-nanosecond range. These demanding specifications are driving innovations in test automation, including the development of intelligent platforms capable of adapting to diverse protocol requirements and operating conditions.
Economic Impact The implementation of automated testing systems presents compelling economic advantages. Studies indicate potential cost reductions of 40-60% in long-term testing operations, primarily through reduced manual intervention and improved resource utilization. These benefits are further enhanced by improvements in testing accuracy and reduced time-to-market for new wireless products.
Industry Transformation By 2027, approximately 75% of wireless technology validation is expected to be conducted through automated systems, with artificial intelligence playing a central role in test optimization and execution. This shift promises to revolutionize product development and quality assurance processes across the wireless industry.
Environmental Considerations Advanced robotic testing systems now incorporate sophisticated environmental control mechanisms, maintaining ambient noise floors below -90 dBm while ensuring phase noise measurements achieve accuracies better than -120 dBc/Hz at 100 kHz offset. These stringent
controls ensure consistent and reliable test results across various environmental conditions. The convergence of IoT and advanced wireless technologies It Catalyzed the development of unified testing frameworks, with industry groups working to establish standardized testing protocols. These efforts reduce implementation complexities while ensuring comprehensive test coverage across diverse wireless platforms.
In conclusion ,Amit Sant emphasizes that this technological transformation promises to significantly impact the wireless industry’s approach to product development and quality assurance, setting new standards for testing efficiency and reliability.
Exponent Energy announced its advancements in rapid charging following BYD’s unveiling of its 1MW charging technology for electric vehicles in China. In a recent tweet, the company showcased its 1MW rapid charging technology for buses and stated that it will introduce a 1.5MW rapid charging technology for EVs later this year.
In August 2024, Exponent Energy partnered with Veera Vahana, a bus manufacturer, to launch the Veera Mahasamrat EV, an intercity electric bus with rapid charging capabilities. To support this, the company deployed a 1MW rapid charging technology for electric buses in India.
Commenting on the development, Arun Vinayak, CEO and Co-founder of Exponent Energy, tweeted, “As a nation we need to have self-belief that we can build and own all layers of EV tech. We’ve historically been followers in ICE. We can’t repeat that with EVs. There was a lot of excitement on the BYD 1MW charging. But we’ve already got 1MW charging right here. We’re actually doing this on standard off the shelf cells which makes it 10X accessible. BYD has fantastic cell material science capability. Allowing them to do 10C. Stuff we need to catch up on in India. Optimistic that we will have an Indian cell partner soon.”
Founded in 2020 by Arun Vinayak and Sanjay Balyal, both former executives at Ather Energy, Exponent Energy has developed a battery pack (e^pack), charging station (e^pump), and charging connector (e^plug). These components enable a 15-minute rapid charge and a 3,000-cycle life warranty for EVs, using standard Li-ion cells.
Exponent Energy states that over 1,700 EVs in India use its technology, with more than 3.5 lakh rapid charging sessions completed, covering 20 lakh kilometers. The company has expanded operations to five cities: Delhi NCR, Chennai, Ahmedabad, Kolkata, and Hyderabad.
The company has raised $44.6 million across Pre-Series A, Series A, and Series B funding rounds from investors including Lightspeed, Eight Roads Ventures, YourNest VC, 3one4 Capital, AdvantEdge VC, and the family office of Dr. Pawan Munjal, Chairman & CEO of Hero MotoCorp.
Schaltbau launches Eddicy bidirectional contactors at Elecrama 2025. In this interview, Steffen Munz, Group CEO of Schaltbau GmbH, discusses the relevance of the newly launched brand and the importance of advanced contactors for the electric mobility and energy storage industry.
You recently introduced Eddicy C303 at Elecrama. What’s the story behind Eddicy?
Schaltbau is and has been a leader in direct current (DC) technology for over 95 years during which we have become a trusted supplier of the rail industry worldwide. To cater to the uniquely poised high growth industrial segment, Schaltbau has launched the new Eddicy brand.
With our Eddicy solutions and products,we are dedicated to now also advancing electrification in the energy and e-mobility sectors, providing safe, sustainable and energy-efficient solutions.
Where is the link between solutions for rail and products for energy and e-mobility?
It is our DC expertise. Today, DC technology is experiencing a renaissance with the energy transition because it can also be used wherever energy is charged or stored. Schaltbau manufactures contactors, connectors and switches that are required for switching DC circuits – also in energy and e-mobility applications.
Our decades of experience in DC technology is currently a globally sought-after competence. Further, our solutions and products, which meet the challenging rail standards, easily comply with the reliable and stringent demands for the new energy and e-mobility applications.
And who is seeking solutions by Schaltbau, or Eddicy, for that matter?
Not only is the rail industry growing, as old diesel locomotives are being replaced by electric ones:our Eddicy DC products are now required for everything that is to be operated electrically and with renewable energies: Cars, buses, trucks, ships, agricultural machinery, forklift trucks and much more.
Then there are applications that produce energy, such as solar parks where our contactors are used in the inverterapplications, or for storage of renewable energy or charging of electric vehicles. And DC grids will also play a much more prominent role in industrial manufacturing.
By providing reliable and forward-looking solutions, Eddicy empowers industries to harness the full potential of electrification – from a business, energy efficiency and sustainability perspective.
What’s the benefit for your customers?
Our purpose is to enable the economy and society to unlock the full potential of electrification.
The benefit of DC technology is that it can be used more efficiently without the usual losses that occur when direct current is converted into alternate current (AC) and vice versa.
In that sense, the benefit for customers is that our products help them increase energy efficiency and performance while safely connecting and disconnecting direct current loads. In addition, Schaltbau products provide reliability that ensures non-stop performance, which is critical for new energy and e-mobility applications.
Can you give an example?
EV Charging stations is an important application that immediately comes to mind. Charging with direct current enables electric vehicles to cover long ranges in a relatively short charging time.
Extremely important here is the use of galvanic isolation – which our solutions provide – to ensure safe charging processes. In the event of a fault, this function interrupts the flow of electricity under full load both in the charging station and the vehicle. This requires the contactors to be capable of not only to carry the full load currents but also be capable of switching ON-Load at the rated currents. This will be particularly vital when ultra-fast charging stations become available. They can operate with a voltage of up to 1000 volts and deliver a charging current of up to 500 amps – making charging as fast as refueling and fulfilling the highest safety requirements.
What’s your take on the Indian electric vehicles market?
It’s hard to overestimate India’s relevance as the fifth largest and fastest-growing economy in the world and its share in world trade and global supply chains. We witness the Indian market for electric vehicles (EVs) to grow exponentially, and the government’s initiatives are driving this growth, aiming for 30% of private car sales to be electric by 2030. Our aim is to support longer ranges, faster battery charging and energy efficiency to increase e-mobility adoption. And our local production capabilities ensure that we can meet the growing demand for high-quality electrical components which are manufactured in India.
What is the role of Schaltbau India & are you going to produce the products in India?
Schaltbau India Pvt. Ltd. is a 100% subsidiary of Schaltbau GmbH, Germany. The company was established in September 2009 and is an ISO 9001:2008 certified company.
Schaltbau India adopted the “Make in India” initiative way back in 2014 with the establishment of the manufacturing unit at Navi Mumbai. In 2022, Schaltbau India further expanded its manufacturing base in India by setting up a state-of-the-art second facility in Manesar, Haryana. These plants not only have manufacturing but also in-house type test facilities which enable us to cover complete life cycle management from design to end of life of our products.
Schaltbau India’s locally manufactured products qualify as a “Make in India” source and have been approved by industrial clients in the Rail and EV sectors.
What are the different application areas where the Eddicy C303 contactor finds use?
The C303 contactor series is designed to support applications with greater power needs up to 1000VDC and upto 500A currents, such as energy storage systems, fast-charging stations, electric vehicles, vehicle-to-grid (V2G) and test benches for batteries.
These applications require efficient, reliable, and durable switching to manage bidirectional energy flow, minimize power loss, and ensure safe operation under extreme conditions. The C303 does exactly that for applications ranging from megawatt-scale battery storage to high-power EV charging and industrial electrification.
Can you tell us about the technical specifications of the C303 contactor? How do they compare to previous generations or competitor products?
The C303 contactor is a compact, high-performance switching device for applications with high making and short-time currents or large capacity. It features:
A high breaking capacity of up to 1.5 megawatts
A high making capacity (up to 2kA without contact welding)
Handles short circuits carrying up to 5,000 amps without contact welding
Has full bidirectionality to ensure the safe breaking of high-power loads
Using permanent magnetic arc extinguishing eliminates the risk of explosion and prevents damage and rapid aging.
With a very low contact resistance of slightly over 100 µΩ, it also shows best-in-class performance with low contact warming and low power loss due to optimized contact pills.
The 25% energy cost savings is a key unique selling point. What are the specific technical advancements contributing to this improved efficiency?
We want our solutions to be viable from a business and sustainability standpoint, so we aim for a lower Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) due to enhanced efficiency and durability. The ultra-low contact resistance feature of the C303 helps to minimize power losses and heat generation, while robust design elements extend operational lifespan, reducing the frequency of replacements and associated downtime.
You mention the C303 can handle short circuits up to 5,000A without contact welding. What is the duration of this short-circuit withstand capability?
The C303 can withstand short-circuit currents up to 20 milliseconds, staying fully functional with no contact welding.
Can you explain the three coil control options and the performance trade-offs between them?
Each option addresses specific operational requirements, allowing for flexibility in various high-power DC applications.
The first version, Ecosave, features a standard coil combined with an integrated economy circuit, utilizing Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) for efficient electronic coil control. This design optimizes power consumption during both activation and holding phases, making it ideal for energy-conscious applications.
The second version, the High Efficiency Drive (HED), is equipped with an optimized coil, which ensures maximum efficiency without the need for an additional economy circuit. This simplifies the design and makes it suitable for systems where space and efficiency are critical.
The third version, the Pre-Charge, is designed as a pre-charging contactor and includes a standard coil without an economy circuit. It’s specifically tailored to limit high inrush currents when main contactors are activated, protecting system components during power-up sequences.
Beyond the technical specifications, what are the key advantages of the C303 from a customer’s perspective regarding, say, maintenance requirements and integration with existing systems?
C303 contactors are designed to be largely maintenance-free and are constructed with high-quality materials and robust engineering. They are built to reduce the frequency of maintenance interventions. Also, we want to make the integration with existing systems as seamless as possible with a compact and versatile design.
The unique Air-break technology makes these contactors unique and ensures higher switching capabilities as compared to the gas-sealed devices. The inclusion of an auxiliary switch with a mirror contact function enhances safety and facilitates easy integration into existing control circuits.
What is Schaltbau’s approach to supporting customers integrating the C303 into their systems?
We see our customers as partners and, therefore, provide comprehensive documentation of our applications, an experienced technical support team and our worldwide network of sales and service locations to ensure that our customers receive timely support and local assistance to meet their goals. Our highly knowledgeable application engineering teams work closely with the customers at the design stage to ensure successful validations.
With regard to the C303, we stand ready in India and elsewhere to ensure the successful implementation and reliable operation of the C303 contactors in our customers’ e-mobility and energy applications.
Not long ago, Thunderbolt 3 was the latest and greatest technology because it combined Thunderbolt, USB, DisplayPort, Ethernet and power via a single USB-C connector. Thunderbolt 4, released in 2020, raised the game even higher — with all of the benefits of Thunderbolt 3 but also the ability to send local area network (LAN) signals between devices.
One look at a typical workstation in nearly any working environment is enough to explain the allure of this technology. Where there is typically a messy tangle of cables to operate a monitor and peripherals, there can be one cord doing just about everything instead.
Besides decluttering workstations, Thunderbolt 4 is less expensive than other connection technologies and supports desktop IT demands, such as greater data transfer speeds — eight times faster than conventional USB 3.0 cables. Thunderbolt 4 monitors have everything in one bundle.
A monitor is, by nature, the center of attention and activity at any desk — but with a Thunderbolt 4 port, it becomes a command center. Here’s how.
What is Thunderbolt 4?
Often, there is confusion when comparing Thunderbolt vs. USB-C, as the terms are commonly used interchangeably. However, they are not the same.
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USB-C refers to the physical port used for connecting and powering devices. That port is the product of an industry-developed standard, USB 3.1, intended to streamline the many cables typically found at a workstation into a single cable that does all the work while improving performance.
Thunderbolt 4, meanwhile, is a powerful connectivity standard that uses both USB-C ports and the USB 3.1 standard. In other words, a Thunderbolt 4 connector and cable uses USB 3.1, but a USB-C connector isn’t necessarily Thunderbolt 4.
Some devices and cables that use USB-C can only connect, as older versions of USB have done for many years. A USB-C device that uses Thunderbolt 4, however, has a wide range of capabilities that make computing simpler and faster for business users and IT administrators. So, while comparisons between Thunderbolt and USB-C are common, Thunderbolt 4 offers far more capabilities.
You’ll know a cable is Thunderbolt 4 if there’s a lightning bolt icon on the connector tip. A standard USB-C cable will just have the familiar three-pronged USB logo.
Thunderbolt 4 takes USB 3.1 and optimizes its potential. It has all the USB-C single connector benefits, plus blazing fast data transfers — 40GB/s — on the same cable while doing other work.
Using Thunderbolt 4 means:
Charging with up to 90W power delivery
Data transfers eight times faster than USB 3.0 (you could transfer a 4K movie in less than 30 seconds)
Sending a LAN signal by connecting the LAN cable to a monitor
Four times more video bandwidth than HDMI
Backups of entire music archives in a few minutes
Thunderbolt 3 vs. 4: Key differences
The leap from Thunderbolt 3 to Thunderbolt 4 includes several key improvements. Here’s a quick breakdown of the advantages of Thunderbolt 3 vs. 4:
Screen expansion: Thunderbolt 4 can support 4K on dual monitors and 8K on a single monitor. By comparison, Thunderbolt 3 can also support 4K on dual monitors but only 5K on a single monitor.
Data transfer: With even faster transfer speeds, Thunderbolt 4 supports a PCIe® data transfer speed of up to 32GB/s, double the data transfer speed of Thunderbolt 3 monitors (16GB/s PCIe).
Sleep mode: A new feature on Thunderbolt 4 allows users to wake up their laptop with an external keyboard or mouse. As long as the peripheral devices are connected via the Thunderbolt 4 port, it’s simple to wake up the screen and jump back into work.
The benefits of Thunderbolt 4
One connection from a laptop or desktop PC to a Thunderbolt 4-ready monitor enables full office productivity. Power, data and display transmissions all happen via that single cable, and all peripherals and devices are connected, too.
Connecting a Thunderbolt 4 cable from the PC to the monitor provides a high-speed, 8K-ready display signal and supports multiple peripherals. Thunderbolt 4 is also bidirectional: While the cable sends a signal and commands to the screen, the screen can send back power to charge the laptop.
Some monitors that support Thunderbolt 4 have more than one USB-C connector at the rear, so they can connect to a PC while the second port does something else, like daisy chaining the signal to a second screen. The monitor can also become a USB hub, with conventional USB ports that connect peripherals like a mouse and an external keyboard.
A fully equipped Thunderbolt 4 monitor largely eliminates the need for a docking station at a work desk, which is great for large businesses, as a single docking station can be costly. Docking stations are peripheral devices with software drivers and firmware, so they sometimes need updating and troubleshooting. USB-C reduces connections and, therefore, their potential to loosen, break or go missing.
One of the simplest attractions of using USB-C connectors is the reversible oval connector, which has no top or bottom. There’s no more inadvertently bending or breaking parts because they don’t fit, which means lower replacement costs and productivity loss.
Taking full advantage of Thunderbolt ports
It’s important for businesses and individuals upgrading their monitors to understand the differences between Thunderbolt 4 and USB-C. This way, they don’t accidentally buy something that looks like it supports Thunderbolt 4 but doesn’t.
Here’s what to look for:
Cables: A Thunderbolt 4 cable is different from a USB-C cable. Their connectors are the same, but even a genuine USB-C cable that’s fully USB 3.1-compatible will have slower data transfer speeds than Thunderbolt 4. Look for the lightning bolt on the connector end and buy from a familiar brand. An inexpensive offshore cable may have a lightning bolt but no capabilities.
PCs: It’s good for a laptop to have a USB-C port, but the port doesn’t guarantee the laptop supports all of the USB-C standard’s capabilities. PC Magazine found that some manufacturers haven’t fully developed their graphics hardware to optimize USB-C connections. In other words, you may still need a VGA or HDMI cable to connect to certain displays. Also, not all laptops or desktop PCs will support power input through a USB-C port.
Monitors: As you sift through monitor options, evaluate USB-C power delivery support, which lets a user connect one USB-C cable from their laptop to the monitor, support multiple peripherals and simultaneously charge their laptop. This added functionality gives employees peace of mind during the workday since they won’t need to scramble for a charging cord.
Function meets form
There are still very few Thunderbolt 4 monitor options on the market. Samsung ViewFinity TU874 features two Thunderbolt 3 ports. Users can easily expand their screen by connecting compatible monitors for a dual ultra-high-definition (UHD) setup, all while charging their devices with a single cable.
To level up to Thunderbolt 4, look to the Samsung S65TC 34-inch monitor. Its widescreen, curved display is tailored to users who need a big canvas and enough power to work on one or multiple demanding tasks at once easily. With multiple ports, including Thunderbolt 4, built-in speakers and TÜV certification for intelligent eye care, Samsung S65TC ups the productivity ante.
RR players unveiled the latest solar and advanced energy solutions by Luminous Power Technologies along with a 360-degree marketing campaign to enhance rooftop solar adoption
Showcases special jersey for the Pink Promise match during the upcoming India’s T-20 Premier League to continue supporting women-led transformation with a promise to promote clean energy
MUMBAI: Luminous Power Technologies, India’s leading energy solutions company, continues its power partnership with Rajasthan Royals to be their Title Partner for the 18th season of the upcoming India’s T-20 premier league creating greater momentum for their sustainability efforts and launching nationwide solar adoption initiatives.
As part of the event, Rajasthan Royals players Sanju Samson, Nitish Rana, and Tushar Deshpande along with Jake Lush McCrum, Chief Executive Officer of Rajasthan Royals, and Preeti Bajaj, Neelima Burra, Amit Shukla, and Shikha Gupta from the Luminous leadership team, unveiled Luminous’ latest line of solar and advanced energy solutions, aligned with the company’s long-term mission to empower consumers with clean energy alternatives. Luminous also plans to launch a new sleek futuristic design range of inverters – EVO Inverter Series, and ZELIO S Inverter Series. Additionally, the product range includes the EON Topcon Solar Panels, along with the industry-disrupting gel battery technology – AmpBox range, all designed to offer superior efficiency, durability, and performance in extreme weather conditions of India.
Further, Luminous also unveiled a comprehensive 360-degree marketing campaign to accelerate rooftop solar adoption across India and establish itself as “India’s Solar Expert,” addressing consumer trust deficits and the perception of high cost and complexity. Educating consumers on solar benefits, the campaign showcases Luminous’ cutting-edge solutions through digital outreach, on-ground activations, and media engagement. By focusing on trust and expertise, Luminous aims to lead solar adoption and solidify its position as the nation’s premier solar provider.
Speaking on the occasion, Preeti Bajaj, CEO & MD, of Luminous Power Technologies, said, “India’s solar energy sector is undergoing a significant transformation, and at Luminous, we are dedicated to playing a crucial role in accelerating this change. We believe that the future is solar, and we are committed to driving this transition through innovative products and meaningful partnerships. Our collaboration with Rajasthan Royals enables us to connect with millions of cricket fans and inspire a movement toward clean energy adoption. Through this association, we are leveraging the influence of sports to promote solar energy, encourage its adoption, and introduce innovative products that enhance energy efficiency.”
Neelima Burra, Chief Strategy Transformation & Marketing Officer, Luminous Power Technologies said, “Cricket is more than just a sport in India—it’s a passion that unites millions. Partnering with the Rajasthan Royals provides us with a significant platform to showcase our solar innovations and promote the message of sustainability. Luminous is at the forefront of solar energy adoption through educational brand initiatives and skilling programs. We have built a comprehensive marketing strategy that combines OTT and television advertising, offline activations, social media, and nationwide partner engagement to boost user interaction, raise awareness, and reinforce brand loyalty in the solar energy sector. India’s T-20 Premier League’s reach ensures that our clean energy vision receives the attention it deserves, inspiring fans to make smart sustainable choices for a brighter future.”
“As India’s leading energy solutions and rooftop solar brand, the launch of our new product range ensures consumers can choose from a wide range of products that seamlessly blend cutting-edge technology with sleek design. We believe in empowering consumers with choice, enabling them to actively participate in India’s sustainable energy future.”, said Amit Shukla, Senior Vice President of the Energy Solutions Business, at Luminous Power Technologies.
Luminous has undertaken a transformative endeavor aimed at bringing solar power to communities, with the support of the Royal Rajasthan Foundation. The initiative is focused on training rural women to become solar engineers and promoting the usage of solar energy in their communities. Continuing their tradition of #PinkPromise match from last year, for every six in one of the matches, Luminous along with RR will be powering six homes in the Sambhar region. The aim is to instill a positive impact on both the environment and the communities. The special all-pink jersey includes a visual representation of a solar panel highlighting the Royal Rajasthan Foundation’s efforts to provide clean energy to rural women.
Commenting on the association, Jake Lush McCrum, Chief Executive Officer, of Rajasthan Royals, said, “Cricket has the power to drive meaningful change far beyond the boundaries of the game. Our partnership with Luminous is not just about sponsorship—it’s about harnessing innovation and sustainability to inspire millions. Together, we are not only promoting clean energy solutions but also setting a new benchmark for how sports can lead the charge toward a more sustainable future. From impacting thousands of lives through solarification to enabling empowered women as solar ambassadors in their communities, we aim to drive greater awareness and adoption of clean energy solutions that create lasting impact.”
As a leader in energy solutions, Luminous remains committed to innovation and sustainability, empowering consumers to embrace cleaner and smarter energy alternatives. The association with Rajasthan Royals will help both to drive the adoption of cutting-edge products and bring about transformation in underserved regions of India.
Virtual nursing, like telehealth, has become a crucial part of health systems in recent years and is expected to continue growing. Both improve access to healthcare for people who can’t easily travel to medical facilities, especially those living in rural areas or with mobility challenges. It also ensures continuity of care by connecting patients with the nurses they know and who are familiar with their needs.
It’s not a new idea, either. For example, Samsung helped St. Luke’s Health System develop a 24/7 virtual platform in 2018. Based in Boise, the facility built a virtual care center that connects nurses with rural care providers and their patients to make care more accessible.
This need for virtual nursing is only increasing, especially as nurse shortages persist and potentially overwhelm existing staff. Virtual nursing helps healthcare organizations address these challenges, especially when paired with the right technology to succeed. Here’s how.
Relieving the burden on nurses
Virtual nursing reduces the strain on floor nurses, allowing them to focus more on direct patient care. In fact, a single nurse or clinical staff member can monitor multiple rooms at a time from a desktop monitor. They can speak with each patient and notify the staff if anything goes wrong.
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With the right tools, a virtual nurse can take on almost any task that involves putting a nurse in front of a computer. For example, some hospitals are turning to virtual discharges, as a remote nurse or case manager can provide thorough, unrushed discharge education. This reduces the burden on floor nurses, improving productivity and giving them more time to focus on in-person care.
Many floor nurses report that virtual care helps them better balance their workload, and their patients appreciate the more focused attention from the on-site care team. That was the case with Nashville-based HCA Healthcare, which launched several virtual nursing pilots to great success. Virtual nurses proved especially valuable in admissions, medication history, discharge education and rounding.
Ochsner Health in Louisiana piloted its virtual nurse model in a community hospital, allowing a remote nurse — sometimes working from home — to collaborate with the patient team. This approach helps hospitals efficiently allocate resources, enhance care quality and reduce readmissions, according to The Online Journal of Issues in Nursing. The pilots have increased nurses’ work satisfaction and improved retention.
Encouraging nurses to stay in the workforce
More than a quarter of all nurses report that they plan to leave nursing or retire over the next five years, according to the National Nursing Workforce Survey. It’s part of a trend: Between 2020 and 2022, the workforce lost at least 200,000 experienced RNs and 60,000 experienced LPNs/LVNs.
Virtual models can keep nurses in the workplace longer by allowing them to remain in direct patient care roles without the physical demands of hospital floor work, notes the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. This is especially beneficial for nurses nearing retirement. Virtual models help these experienced nurses continue providing expert care while sharing their institutional knowledge, without the physical strain of bedside care.
Remote nurse, remote patients
Advances in digital health technology make it possible for hospitals to better manage acute and long-term conditions for patients where they are. Remote nursing supports hospital-at-home models, allowing nurses to provide care in the patient’s own home. For example, Massachusetts General Brigham offers virtual care services seven days a week for health issues that don’t require emergency care, and they are available to anyone with an internet connection and compatible device.
Research published by BMC Health Services indicates that this approach can reduce mortality and hospital readmissions. That, then, frees up beds and staff to focus on more critical and emergency cases.
Monitors are key to virtual nursing success
Success in virtual nursing technology requires the right technology — especially the right monitors. That’s because virtual care monitors need to accomplish more tasks than typical hospital monitors, including the need to monitor several patients at one time and offer comfort to nurses who must sit there for long hours.
These considerations and others went into the design of Samsung’s 34-inch ViewFinity S65VC monitor. Its ultra-wide QHD curved display matches the human field of vision, bringing all relevant information into view at once. Using the ViewFinity S65VC, a nurse can monitor multiple patient rooms from a single screen — and at eye level, thanks to the adjustable stand. The curve also reduces eye strain, and TUV-certified Intelligent Eye Care technology enhances that by minimizing blue light exposure.
Samsung designed this monitor for ease of use, too. Its plug-and-play setup enables nurses to easily connect any device to the monitor with a USB-C port and transmit data through a single cable. The same connection charges your device, which allows you to power your device and transmit data with a single cable. A LAN port also enables connection to a LAN-less laptop for Ethernet use.
The monitor’s camera and speakers make launching virtual sessions a snap, and when they’re finished, the camera can be retracted for security and confidentiality. Windows Hello facial recognition software adds another layer to that.
Virtual nursing: A force multiplier
With the right technology, such as Samsung’s ViewFinity S65VC monitor, virtual nursing becomes a force multiplier. One experienced nurse can support many colleagues and even more patients. This enhances patient care, boosts nurse satisfaction and helps ensure continuity of care. More importantly, it translates to more positive patient outcomes.
Discover how to make virtual care more secure with this free guideto healthcare mobile security. Also learn more about how health systems can support their clinical teams during staffing shortages.
Tech Mahindra announced an expanded long-term strategic partnership with Google Cloud to boost the adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and lead digital transformation for enterprises globally. The partnership will enable Tech Mahindra to help enterprises worldwide achieve agility, scalability, and sustainable growth through cutting-edge technologies.
The partnership will combine Tech Mahindra’s deep domain expertise with Google Cloud’s powerful AI capabilities, including Google’s Gemini models, AI development platform, and agentic AI technology to develop industry-specific solutions for sectors such as communications, healthcare and life sciences, manufacturing, automotive, retail, and financial services. Together, Tech Mahindra and Google Cloud will help enterprises modernise their infrastructure and data architecture while optimising the return on investment from their AI-powered cloud solutions.
Atul Soneja, Chief Operating Officer, Tech Mahindra, said, “AI’s promise is undeniable, yet enterprises face significant challenges in its adoption, from ensuring compliance to driving tangible outcomes. Our expanded partnership with Google Cloud reinforces our commitment to scaling AI adoption responsibly by co-creating tailored solutions powered by Agentic AI. These solutions will empower businesses to navigate operational complexities, enhance efficiency, and unlock new growth opportunities while adhering to evolving regulatory standards.”
Through the enhanced partnership, both organisations will help enterprises realise the full potential of AI for business transformation and growth. The partnership will accelerate the time-to-market for new AI-driven solutions, providing customers with early access to emerging technologies. Additionally, Tech Mahindra has made substantial investments in talent upskilling and advanced delivery capabilities to enhance its partnership with Google Cloud.
Kevin Ichhpurani, President, Global Partner Ecosystem & Channels, Google Cloud, said, “Maximising value from AI investments requires two things: advanced agent-building technology and deep industry expertise. Our partnership with Tech Mahindra will provide customers with the managed services needed to successfully build and deploy AI agents with Google Cloud’s leading AI development platform.”
The expanded partnership with Google Cloud further strengthens Tech Mahindra’s position as a leading provider of innovative AI and cloud solutions, ensuring efficient solution deployment while maximising the resources available. To support this, Tech Mahindra has established dedicated delivery centres in Guadalajara and Mexico. These centres focus on providing Google Cloud-centric solutions and assisting customers in modernising their infrastructure. Tech Mahindra is a premier systems integrator Google Cloud Partner with 2000+ certified resources and 10,000+ trained engineers deployed across 75+ programs globally.
