India has made a significant stride in the global automotive industry by surpassing China to become the world’s largest two-wheeler market. This shift is primarily attributed to an increase in demand from rural areas, which has been bolstered by favourable monsoon conditions and government initiatives aimed at rural development. The data, released by Counterpoint Research, shows that two-wheeler sales globally grew by 4% year-on-year in the first half of 2024.
While growth was observed in India, Europe, North America, Latin America, and the Middle East and Africa, China and Southeast Asia experienced a decline. Soumen Mandal, a senior analyst, highlighted that India’s two-wheeler market saw a remarkable 22% YoY growth in the first half of this year. This strong performance allowed India to surpass China and become the world’s largest two-wheeler market, Mandal stated.
The second quarter of this fiscal year saw strong double-digit growth in India’s two-wheeler market. In contrast, China’s market, where two-wheelers under 125cc remain popular, is experiencing a shift. Consumers are increasingly opting for e-bicycles over motorcycles and scooters for daily commuting, leading to a temporary slowdown in the Chinese two-wheeler market, particularly in the electric segment.
In Southeast Asia, major markets such as Indonesia, Vietnam, the Philippines, Thailand, and Malaysia saw a decline in two-wheeler sales. This decline is attributed to geopolitical trade tensions, stricter lending criteria, and cautious consumer spending amid economic uncertainty.
IANS
The global two-wheeler market is dominated by a few key players, with the top-10 manufacturers capturing over 75% of sales during H1 2024. Honda maintained its leading position, followed by Hero MotoCorp, Yamaha, TVS Motor, and Yadea. TVS Motor emerged as the fastest-growing brand, with a 25% YoY increase, while Yadea experienced the most significant decline, slipping to fifth position.
The two-wheeler market is also witnessing a shift towards electrification. Neil Shah, Vice President of Research, predicts that by 2030, four out of 10 two-wheelers sold will be electric. This shift is also accelerating the adoption of embedded cellular connectivity in the two-wheeler segment. As the automotive industry advances toward C-V2X technology, the two-wheeler segment will follow suit, Shah noted.
This development in India’s two-wheeler market is reminiscent of the country’s growth in the retail sector. For instance, Nykaa, India’s leading omnichannel consumer-tech company, reported a consolidated Gross Merchandise Value (GMV) of over Rs. 12,446 crores, with net revenue of Rs. 6,386 crores, representing a 24% increase over FY23. The company serviced over 33 million customers across beauty and fashion, with nearly 2 billion annual visits.
In the fashion industry, brands like Forever 21 and Vero Moda are offering both casual and formal wear, targeting young, fashion-conscious customers. These brands are constantly updating their catalogs, ensuring their patrons always have new stock to choose from.
The FMCG market also expanded by 10% in January, indicating that the third Covid wave buoyed consumption for daily essentials and groceries. Despite restrictions on store timings and mobility in certain markets, the impact on business has been the least in the third Omicron wave compared to the previous two.
India is making significant strides in the digital realm, with experts highlighting the country’s leadership in 6G technology following a successful 5G rollout. This progress is a testament to the ‘Digital India’ initiative’s transformative impact on the economy, with the Jan Dhan, Aadhaar, and Mobile (JAM) trinity serving as a robust foundation.
Sumnesh Joshi, Deputy Director General of the Ministry of Communications, emphasized India’s rapid 5G rollout, which is among the fastest in the world. He also highlighted the country’s lead in 6G technology, a testament to India’s commitment to staying at the forefront of digital innovation.
The JAM trinity, a cornerstone of the ‘Digital India‘ initiative, has revolutionized financial inclusion and digital services in India. Jan Dhan refers to the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana, a government scheme aimed at providing universal access to banking facilities.
Aadhaar is the world’s largest biometric ID system, providing a unique identity number to Indian residents based on their biometric and demographic data. The rapid proliferation of mobile phones and internet connectivity has made financial and other services more accessible, making transactions and access to information seamless.
Joshi also highlighted the increased accessibility to financial services, with everyone now having a bank account. This has created a robust ecosystem for innovative services such as financial credit, micro insurance, mutual funds, and even share-related products. The ability to transact small amounts and make payments without a smartphone or QR code, thanks to Aadhaar-based payments, is a significant step forward. The need of the hour, according to Joshi, is to connect all systems to leverage this ecosystem fully.
IANS
In addition to technological advancement, the Ministry of Communications is also focused on consumer protection. It has taken effective measures to block international calls displaying Indian numbers, a move aimed at combating fraudulent calls. This action underscores the importance of cybersecurity and the need for collaboration between ecosystem partners for real-time data sharing.
Rajkiran Rai G, Chairman of Assocham National Council for Banking, emphasized the crucial role of banks in leveraging technology, especially Artificial Intelligence (AI), to expand their reach and enhance customer experiences. He suggested that banks should use AI to develop internal credit assessment models, which can help in diverting credit flow to underserved segments more efficiently. This approach not only streamlines the credit process but also allows for better risk assessment and personalized financial solutions.
As India takes the lead in 6G development, several key priorities have been highlighted. These include maintaining the success of the 5G rollout, fostering innovation and research, supporting the ‘Digital India’ initiative, ensuring a supportive regulatory environment, encouraging collaboration and partnerships, ensuring network security and user privacy, promoting inclusive growth, and engaging with international partners for knowledge sharing and standard setting.
Historically, India has been a pioneer in adopting and implementing digital technologies. The country’s telecom revolution in the early 2000s, which made mobile communication accessible and affordable to the masses, is a prime example.
The launch of Aadhaar in 2009, the world’s largest biometric ID system, was another significant milestone. These historical events have set the stage for India’s current digital transformation, with the country now leading the way in 6G technology.
“As a data scientist, the ability to develop innovative solutions is not just an advantage; it’s a necessity,” says Sumit Makashir, a senior data scientist dedicated to protecting e-commerce from abusive activities. His words resonate with digital marketplaces’ transformative and complex nature, where billions of transactions occur daily.
Sumit’s journey from a biotechnology undergraduate in India to an industry-leading data scientist is a proven result of his pursuit of education and determination to make impactful contributions to today’s world.
From Biotechnology to Data Science
Sumit Makashir’s professional trajectory is anything but conventional. With an undergraduate degree in Biotechnology, Sumit initially had minimal exposure to mathematics. Upon moving to the United States, he recognized the pervasive role of mathematics in solving real-world problems. This realization sparked his interest in the subject, leading him to pursue a master’s degree in Biostatistics and another in Business Analytics. His academic journey led him to bridge the gap in his mathematical education, meeting the challenge head-on by concurrently enrolling in undergraduate math courses.
Sumit’s desire to apply his skills to solve practical challenges drove his transition into data science. While completing his graduate studies, he worked as a research assistant at MD Anderson Cancer Center and Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, where he honed his hands-on data science skills in solving biology problems. The skills he learned from this research work laid the foundation for his subsequent industry roles.
In the course of his journey, Sumit had to face several challenges. During his early days, universities denied his application for graduate studies in biostatistics due to his lack of advanced math education. He kept pursuing and finally found a university program that recognized his passion. The University of Texas Health Science Center offered him admission and gave him a scholarship based on his exceptional credentials. Another substantial challenge he faced later on was breaking into the tech industry. Sumit wanted to join this industry because he saw it as a path to make meaningful contributions to billions of lives. His lack of relevant experience in this sector made it difficult for him to get through the doors. Again, with his “never give up” attitude, he prepared himself for the uphill battle and eventually won it.
Seven years later, Sumit’s perseverance and hard work have made him an established data scientist. He has successfully led several high-impact data science initiatives at multiple top-tier tech companies.
Leading Data Science Initiatives with Innovation
Sumit’s contributions throughout his career have been nothing short of innovative excellence. With only three years of academic study in data science, he developed a novel statistical meta-analysis framework for detecting differential gene co-expression. The framework was applied to Lupus disease patients’ data to detect dysfunctional networks of genes. This research was published in The Pacific Symposium on Biocomputing, an international, multidisciplinary conference. As a senior data scientist, Sumit has led numerous initiatives across various organizations including fraud prevention, supply chain management, and voice assistant devices. He has delivered innovative solutions that have not only solved business problems consistently but also influenced the organizations’ strategies. One of his most noteworthy contributions is his patented research on reducing undesired activations in speech-processing systems, for which he is the primary inventor. The application of innovation has reached millions of customers across the globe.
Sumit’s work in previous tech companies further emphasizes his versatility and command. He has led data science initiatives focused on maintaining the integrity of product listings and reducing negative customer experiences. One of his roles also involved driving customer growth and lowering marketing costs. These roles highlight his ability to apply data science principles across different contexts, delivering impactful results.
Pioneering the Future of Data Science
Data science enables businesses to leverage big data analytics, artificial intelligence (AI), and machine learning (ML) to enhance operational efficiencies and customer experiences. With significant advancements on the horizon, the future of data science is bright. By 2030, AI, ML, and big data analytics will revolutionize several industries.
However, these technological advancements will bring new challenges that require innovative solutions. In this fast-changing world of technology, individuals like Sumit Makashir, who think from first principles and deliver innovative solutions, will be invaluable assets. As data science becomes increasingly ingrained in sectors like e-commerce, figures like him will undoubtedly play a huge role in shaping the future of digital marketplaces.
Sumit offers a poignant observation: “The path to innovation is not to aim for innovation but to do whatever it takes to solve the problem at hand. Innovation will happen in the process.” His story is a powerful reminder of the potential of education, perseverance, and the pursuit of excellence. In the end, Sumit’s journey from a non-mathematical background to becoming a data science innovator is a personal triumph and a reflection of the broader possibilities within the industry.
India’s online gaming sector projected to reach $60 billion by 2034IANS
India’s online gaming sector, currently valued at $3.1 billion, has the potential to expand to a staggering $60 billion by 2034 amid challenges surrounding regulation and taxation, a report showed on Monday.
The US has been a significant contributor to India’s gaming sector, with $1.7 billion out of the total $2.5 billion in foreign direct investment (FDI) coming from the US alone.
“This reflects the immense confidence global investors have in India’s rapidly growing gaming market, which is projected to become a $60 billion opportunity by 2034,” according to Dr Mukesh Aghi, President and CEO, United States India Strategic Partnership Forum (USISPF).
Notably, 90 per cent of this FDI is in the pay-to-play segment, which also accounts for 85 per cent of the sector’s overall valuation.
However, challenges surrounding regulation and taxation persist. India stands out for its high tax rate, imposing a 28 per cent Goods and Services Tax (GST) for all formats on the total deposits made by players, according to the report by USISPF and TMT Law Practice.
India’s online gaming sector, currently valued at $3.1 billionRazer
The report also highlighted that the United Nations Central Product Classification (UN CPC), which forms the basis for taxation in domestic jurisdictions globally, defines online gaming separately from online gambling.
“With a large consumer base of over 600 million gamers, this space is rapidly being monetised and presents a substantial export opportunity. However, for Indian companies to compete on a global stage, we need a level playing field with progressive tax and regulatory policies that align with international standards,” said Aghi.
The report looked at the regulatory frameworks and taxation policies in 12 key gaming market. It revealed that all 12 countries have a separate legal definition for games of chance, ensuring a clear distinction from skill gaming formats.
It emphasised that adopting platform revenue or the commission collected as the tax base is crucial not only for ensuring fair taxation but also for preventing the proliferation of unregulated, untaxed illegal offshore markets that could undermine both industry viability and government revenue.
“A more nuanced regulatory and taxation regime, similar to those adopted in global markets, would not only provide clarity but also foster sustainable growth in the online gaming sector,” said Abhishek Malhotra, partner, TMT Law Practice.
(With inputs from IANS)
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Apple’s Glow Time event witnessed the launch of the new iPhones, posing as the showstoppers, but the flagship wearable got its limelight. As hopes were high for the tenth generation of the successful product category in Apple’s portfolio, the Watch Series 10 seems to continue the legacy of its predecessors with notable improvements.
With upgraded hardware, a refined design, and new health features, the Apple Watch Series 10 offers a premium experience—but is it worth upgrading if you own last year’s model? Let’s find that out and more.
Dimensions: 42mm x 36mm x 9.7mm (42mm), 46mm x 39mm x 9.7mm (46mm)
Familiar Design with Subtle Changes
At first glance, the Series 10 seems strikingly similar to the Series 9. It retains the square display, the Digital Crown, and the same watch band system as expected. However, the most significant design change is the slimness of the watch, and it sure makes a difference. Apple claims the Series 10 is 10% thinner and lighter than its predecessor, which is noticeable when worn. The compact feel makes for a more comfortable and refined experience on the wrist, even compared to the predecessor.
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Apple Watch Series 10 reviewIBT
Apple Watch Series 10 reviewIBT
But that’s not the only change. The review unit we tested came in the new Jet Black style, which has glossy, reflective aluminium. This is the first time, the back of the Apple Watch is metal, which is quite premium. The band-locking mechanism remains unchanged. The band wraps comfortably around the wrist, and I can say with confidence that Apple bands never cause irritability when worn for long hours. This is the watch you can go to bed with and not feel irritated.
Apple Watch Series 10 reviewIBT
And the fact that the Series 10 is IP7X-rated, I had no reason to take off the watch for showers, or rains and you can even swim with it. Though there are sport bands available, the Sport Loop is extremely useful and durable. Oh, it’s also carbon neutral.
One big change in this year’s watch series is that the speaker can now play music and podcasts. It is a useful feature to preview content, or you can even listen to full podcasts without having to place a phone or speaker nearby. The Apple Watch is becoming more and more independent by the year. Wonder what’s next!
Apple Watch Series 10 reviewIBT
Display: Bigger and better
One of the standout upgrades for the Series 10 is its display. Both 41mm and 45mm cases have grown by 1mm each, which may not seem much, but it gives up to one extra line of text and a slightly larger overall display. At a glance, it has an expansive edge-to-edge view and the curved sides make it more premium.
Apple Watch Series 10 reviewIBT
The new wide-angle OLED display is remarkable and makes off-axis viewing significantly better. That’s not it. The screen is 40% brighter than the Series 9, and viewing even in direct sunlight is seamless, making it ideal for glancing at notifications or navigating apps in various lighting conditions.
Apple Watch Series 10 reviewIBT
Whether you’re reading notifications or scrolling through your Smart Stack, the brighter, sharper, and more colourful screen is one of the best improvements.
Apple Watch Series 10 reviewIBT
Performance
The new S10 chip offers excellent performance, making sure the watch runs smoothly. But it doesn’t bring any monumental difference from last year’s Watch Series 9. Things like Apple’s on-device Siri commands return from the Series 9.
Apple Watch Series 10 reviewIBT
The Double Tap gesture is incredibly useful, and it is now integrated into third-party apps with watchOS 11, so there’s more use to it. There’s a lot of potential for this feature as more devs integrate the gesture support into widely-used apps.
Apple Watch Series 10 reviewIBT
Another exciting upgrade comes with the water features. The depth and water temperature sensors allow you to dive up to 20 feet, and apps like Oceanic+ provide real-time updates for diving or even checking bathwater temperature. I haven’t tested these features, but the water temperature measurement helps check how hot the bath water is by simply submerging the watch into the water. Useful in case you’ve got infants.
Apple Watch Series 10 reviewIBT
Health tracking
The health tracking on the Series 10 remains largely unchanged from the Series 9. All of the expected sensors—heart rate, SpO2, ECG—are still there, alongside the new sleep apnea detection feature. For this, Apple Watch Series 10 analyzes 30-day sleep data and alerts if it detects possible signs of sleep apnea. It seems like I don’t have sleep apnea.
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Apple Watch Series 10 reviewIBT
Apple Watch Series 10 reviewIBT
But this feature isn’t exclusive to the Watch 10. It is available in other models via watchOS 11.
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Apple Watch Series 10 reviewIBT
Apple Watch Series 10 reviewIBT
It’s worth noting that buyers in India and other countries except the United States get the SpO2 sensor for blood oxygen tracking. If you’re in the States, the Watch 9 supports SpO2, which puts Apple in a tough spot.
Apple Watch Series 10 reviewIBT
Battery Life: Adequate, but Could Be Better
Battery life on the Apple Watch Series 10 remains much the same as previous models. Apple’s claim hasn’t changed as well. You’ll get around 24 hours of use with sleep tracking and a workout thrown in, or up to 28 hours without a workout session. While this battery life is adequate, it isn’t a major leap forward.
Apple Watch Series 10 reviewIBT
But it’s exciting to see the charging speeds get faster. The Series 10 reaches 80% in just 30 minutes, an improvement over the Series 9, which took 45 minutes to reach the same level. And to fully charge the watch from zero, it takes an hour. Not fast enough, but I like the direction in which Apple is headed with the upgrade in charging speeds.
Verdict: The Best Yet
Apple Watch Series 10 is a near-perfect upgrade. Its brighter display, sleeker design, improved charging, and new health features make it the most compelling package to date. However, for those who already own the Series 9, the changes may not be significant enough to justify an upgrade. But for anyone using older models—or first-time buyers—the Series 10 is an excellent choice.
Apple Watch Series 10 reviewIBT
It is priced starting at Rs 46,900 for the aluminium and the Titanium starts at Rs 79,900. Naturally, the price will change with your choice of case size, band, connectivity, etc. But at this price range, you need to decide what features you need as Apple still sells the Watch SE for almost half the price if you can make do without some premium features.
Pros:
Thinner, lighter design
Larger, brighter display
Fast charging speeds
Jet Black aluminum finish is stunning
Cons:
Battery life could still be better
Few groundbreaking new features for Series 9 users
In today’s rapidly evolving industrial landscape, the role of a Solution Architect extends beyond system implementation; it demands visionary leadership that blends technical expertise with foresight. Gowrisankar Krishnamoorthy exemplifies this rare combination. With over 17 years of global experience, he has transformed manufacturing processes by integrating Internet of Things (IoT) and Manufacturing Operations Management (MOM) systems. His impact spans industries such as automotive, consumer electronics, medical devices, hi-tech, and heavy equipment manufacturing.
A Journey of Innovation and Expertise
Gowrisankar’s journey in digital transformation began with a solid foundation in consulting and solution architecture. Over the years, he has specialized in deploying MOM-MES systems using technologies like DASSAULT Apriso and Critical Manufacturing. His deep understanding of MOM-MES modules has made him a go-to solution architect for companies aiming to enhance manufacturing operations.
From blueprinting solutions to execution, Gowrisankar’s hands-on involvement in the full lifecycle of MOM-MES and IoT implementations showcases his technical acumen. He integrates his knowledge of MESA and ISA-95 standards to align with global best practices.
Transforming Industries Through IoT-Enabled Solutions
At the heart of Gowrisankar’s work lies the seamless integration of IoT with MES to create intelligent manufacturing systems. In his recent role, Gowrisankar architected a solution for a leading appliances manufacturer, connecting shop-floor machines, sensors, and robots to the cloud using Microsoft Azure for predictive analytics and process optimization. This enabled real-time data gathering, driving both efficiency and innovation. His solution also improved predictive maintenance capabilities, reducing machine downtime and boosting overall equipment effectiveness (OEE).
Scaling IoT and MOM-MES Integration
Gowrisankar’s expertise has been critical to transforming manufacturing ecosystems. For one of India’s leading consumer electronics manufacturers, he integrated data from shop-floor sensors with MOM-MES systems using MQTT protocols, creating a responsive smart factory. Similarly, he led the rollout of a common MES platform across multiple business units for a major South Korean heavy equipment manufacturer. This large-scale project, involving blueprinting and pilot site deployment, exemplifies his ability to align business processes with technical architecture.
Celebrating His IEEE Senior Membership: A Mark of Excellence
Gowrisankar’s election as an IEEE Senior Member reflects his expertise, innovation, and leadership in IoT and MOM-MES. This prestigious recognition underscores his contributions to the field and his commitment to mentoring professionals while setting new standards for manufacturing technology.
Pioneering the Future of Manufacturing Operations Management
Gowrisankar’s career highlights a series of transformative projects across industries:
Medical Devices (USA): He led the implementation of a MOM-MES solution compliant with FDA regulations, integrating production, quality, and material modules for better factory floor visualization.
Automotive (USA): He developed a globally scalable MOM template and established standardized data communication protocols across layers of the automation pyramid.
These projects showcase Gowrisankar’s technical depth in IoT-MES integration, establishing him as a thought leader in the manufacturing technology domain.
Scholarly Contributions: Thought Leadership and Research
Gowrisankar is also a prolific contributor to industry knowledge. His articles and whitepapers on IoT-MES integration and standards in smart manufacturing are widely recognized. Notably, his research on IoT data ingestion for optimizing workflows has been published in prominent industry journals, offering valuable insights to both academia and industry.
As a technical author, Gowrisankar shares his expertise with the broader community, guiding professionals in leveraging IoT technologies to create more data-driven manufacturing ecosystems.
Expertise That Shapes the Future
Gowrisankar’s extensive technical skill set allows him to craft bespoke solutions for his clients. His core proficiencies include:
IoT (Internet of Things): Architecting solutions for real-time data acquisition and analysis from machines, robots, and sensors.
MOM-MES: Extensive experience in optimizing production processes, quality control, and material flow management through tailored MOM-MES modules.
This comprehensive knowledge, combined with his leadership and mentoring abilities, makes him an invaluable asset in any IoT-driven transformation.
Conclusion: A Visionary Architect Shaping the Smart Factories of Tomorrow
Gowrisankar Krishnamoorthy’s career is a testament to his vision and unwavering commitment to advancing Manufacturing Operations Management. His pioneering work in IoT-MES integration and his recognition as an IEEE Senior Member demonstrate his impact on the industry. With each project, Gowrisankar continues to push boundaries, ensuring that today’s manufacturing systems are optimized for the future. In an ever-evolving industry, he stands at the forefront, sculpting a smarter, more interconnected world.
Samsung is expanding its wearable device portfolio in India with the much-awaited announcement of pre-reservations for its Galaxy Ring in India. The Galaxy Ring, a smart ring equipped with Galaxy AI features and sensors, is designed to deliver a differentiated experience to users. The device fits comfortably on users’ fingers like a traditional ring, providing accurate, uninterrupted health data for personalized health solutions.
The Galaxy Ring is designed with an optimal form factor that brings convenience as per the users’ needs. The ring adorns a titanium finish for enhanced durability and comes with an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance. It is rated 10ATM, built to withstand water depths of up to 100 meters, performing seamlessly in all conditions.
Ahead of the launch, Samsung is letting customers pre-reserve their Galaxy Ring by paying a token amount of Rs 1999 on Samsung.com, select retail stores, Amazon.in, and Flipkart.com. As an added incentive, customers who pre-reserve the Galaxy Ring during this period will receive a complimentary Wireless Charger Duo worth Rs 4999 upon purchase.
Samsung’s Galaxy Ring health tracking
The Galaxy Ring is not just a wearable device; it’s a personalized health solution. It features technology that helps users understand their health and body mannerisms easily. Blending a sleek, timeless design with cutting-edge health tracking features, the Galaxy Ring will be available in 9 different sizes, ranging from size 5 to size 13.
Weighing just 2.3 grams (for size 5) with a narrow 7.0 mm width, the Galaxy Ring is ultra-lightweight and compact, designed for providing comfort during both day and night wear. It offers up to 7 days of battery life, providing users with a long-lasting endurance best suited for busy lifestyles.
Samsung’s Galaxy RingIANS
The Galaxy Ring is powered by Samsung’s innovative Health AI, delivering personalized health experiences that track users’ energy levels, sleep stages, activity, heart rate, and stress levels. It allows users to set and forget, simplifying health tracking while providing personalized coaching and insights.
The Galaxy Ring also integrates with other devices in the Galaxy ecosystem, enhancing the connected experience for users. It offers features like 24/7 health tracking in synergy with Galaxy smartwatches, gesture controls, and Smart Find for added convenience.
The Galaxy Ring’s launch in India is a significant milestone in Samsung’s journey in the wearable technology market. The global wearable tech market, which was worth about $120.54bn in 2023, is expected to touch $157.94bn in 2024. By 2032, it is expected to reach $1,415.26bn. Major companies in the wearable technology market include Apple, Samsung, Microsoft, Sony, Huawei, and Fossil Group.
The Galaxy Ring’s launch also comes at a time when Samsung overtook Apple to become the largest smartphone manufacturer in terms of volume globally, according to research firm IDC. At the time, Samsung had a market share of about 20.8%, while Apple had a market share of around 17.3%.
Apple has once again made headlines with the launch of its new iPad mini.The new iPad mini is powered by the A17 Pro chip and supports Apple Intelligence, a personal intelligence system that understands personal context to deliver intelligence that is helpful and relevant while protecting user privacy.
The new iPad mini comes in four finishes, including a new blue and purple, and features an 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display. The A17 Pro chip delivers a significant performance boost for even the most demanding tasks, with a faster CPU and GPU, a 2x faster Neural Engine than the previous-generation iPad mini, and support for Apple Intelligence.
The integration of Apple Intelligence in the new iPad mini enhances daily tasks by providing advanced writing tools that can rewrite, proofread, and summarize text, enabling more efficient document editing. It supports natural language interactions with Siri, allowing for a more intuitive experience. The system also includes image generation features, like the Image Wand tool, which transforms sketches into polished images, and advanced photo editing, such as the Clean Up tool for removing unwanted objects.
A17 Pro chip and Apple Intelligence
The new iPad mini gets a major update with A17 Pro, delivering incredible performance and power efficiency in an ultraportable design. A17 Pro is a powerful chip that unlocks a number of improvements over A15 Bionic in the previous-generation iPad mini.
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New iPad mini coloursApple
New iPad mini coloursApple
With a 6-core CPU — two performance cores and four efficiency cores — A17 Pro delivers a 30 percent boost in CPU performance. A17 Pro also brings a boost in graphics performance with a 5-core GPU, delivering a 25 percent jump over the previous generation. A17 Pro brings entirely new experiences — including pro apps used by designers, pilots, doctors, and others — and makes it faster than ever for users to edit photos, dive into more immersive AR applications, and more.
The new iPad mini brings true-to-life gaming with hardware-accelerated ray tracing — which is 4x faster than software-based ray tracing — as well as support for Dynamic Caching and hardware-accelerated mesh shading. From creating engaging content faster than ever in Affinity Designer, to playing demanding, graphics-intensive AAA games like Zenless Zone Zero, users can take the powerful performance and ultraportable iPad mini anywhere.
With the power of the A17 Pro chip, the new iPad mini delivers support for Apple Intelligence. Deeply integrated into iPadOS 18, Apple Intelligence harnesses the power of Apple silicon and Apple-built generative models to understand and create language and images, take action across apps, and draw from personal context to simplify and accelerate everyday tasks. Many of the models that power Apple Intelligence run entirely on device, and Private Cloud Compute offers the ability to flex and scale computational capacity between on-device processing and larger, server-based models that run on dedicated Apple silicon servers.
The first set of Apple Intelligence features will be available in U.S. English this month through a free software update with iPadOS 18.1, and available for iPad with A17 Pro or M1 and later.
The new iPad mini features all-day battery life with iPadOS 18 and starts at Rs 49,900 for the Wi-Fi model and Rs 64,900 for the Wi-Fi + Cellular model. The storage in the base model is now doubled at 128GB, but you also get 256GB and 512GB options. The new Smart Folio, available in charcoal grey, light violet, denim, and sage, is Rs 6,500.
Rajalakshmi Soundarapandiyan, a seasoned Senior Product Manager, has built an impressive career through her expertise in Salesforce and e-commerce technologies. With a Master’s in Computer Science and a Bachelor’s in Electrical and Electronics Engineering, she brings a blend of technical knowledge and strategic leadership to her role. Certified as a Scrum Product Owner and Salesforce Sales Cloud Consultant, Rajalakshmi excels in managing product roadmaps, collaborating with cross-functional teams, and automating complex processes. Her work across diverse industries such as finance, education, and retail has driven significant operational improvements, cost savings, and enhanced customer satisfaction.
Throughout her career, she has led impactful projects at companies like iLink Solutions, Elementalents, and Cognizant, partnering with clients such as Scholastic, CIT Bank, and PepsiCo. Rajalakshmi’s ability to transition legacy systems to modern platforms, optimize workflows, and integrate advanced technologies like APIs and Salesforce has played a pivotal role in driving revenue growth. Her leadership in digital transformation and product innovation continues to make her an asset.
A Visionary in IT Product Management
The TITAN Business Awards celebrate professionals who have shaped industries through innovation, leadership, and customer service. Rajalakshmi, known as Raji, was honored with the “Information Technology – Technical Professional of the Year” award for her transformative impact in IT product management. This category recognizes leaders who align complex customer needs with innovative product solutions, a skill that Raji has homed in projects like Scholastic Book Clubs, where she integrated Salesforce Commerce Cloud functionalities with business objectives to boost operations and customer satisfaction.
Her extensive experience in Salesforce, e-commerce, and API integration has consistently delivered results, ensuring that products meet evolving business needs and drive organizational growth.
From Academic Foundations to Global Influence
Raji’s journey began in India, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in electrical and Electronics Engineering at Madurai Kamaraj University, followed by a Master’s in Computer Science from Alagappa University. Her technical expertise, combined with her project management and leadership skills, has propelled her through a series of increasingly challenging roles. At iLink Solutions, where she serves as Senior Product Manager, Raji aligns product roadmaps with the company’s broader vision while managing cross-functional teams.
Her win at the TITAN Business Awards underscores her ability to turn innovative strategies into real-world success. Her leadership at Scholastic Book Clubs, specifically in Salesforce Commerce Cloud integration, was instrumental in this achievement.
What Sets Raji Apart?
Raji’s leadership is marked by her ability to synthesize complex business requirements into strategic product solutions. Whether creating JIRA tickets or leading User Acceptance Testing (UAT), she ensures that every part of the product lifecycle is executed flawlessly. One of her most significant projects involved managing PayPal-related order completion within the checkout functionalities of Salesforce Commerce Cloud, ensuring a seamless user experience.
Her proficiency with data analytics and tools like Adobe Experience Manager (AEM) also distinguishes her as a leader in customer experience improvement. The TITAN Awards recognized these contributions, honoring her not just for day-to-day product management but for her ability to revolutionize processes and influence stakeholders.
The Impact of Her Leadership
Raji’s leadership extends across various industries and roles. As a Product Owner at Elementalents LLC, she managed the B2B e-commerce product roadmap for SANY America, aligning business goals with customer needs. At CIT Bank, she spearheaded the transition from a retiring .Net system to Salesforce, ensuring a smooth shift in credit approvals and CIP process automation. Her experience in the payment sector with Cognizant also highlighted her ability to improve data flow efficiencies and align product strategies with regulatory requirements.
In each of these roles, Raji has proven herself as a visionary leader capable of driving products through their life cycle and improving business performance.
A Future Full of Potential
As Rajalakshmi continues to build on her impressive career, the world of IT can expect even more innovation and leadership from her. She has already demonstrated proficiency in Salesforce, CPQ, and API integrations. However, it is her human-centric approach to technology—one that focuses on creating solutions that matter—that truly sets her apart. The TITAN Business Awards recognized her for this exact reason.
For Raji, product management is not just about solving technical problems but about creating value for clients, colleagues, and end-users. Her consistent ability to exceed expectations cements her place as a forward-thinking leader in IT. Rajalakshmi’s TITAN Award win is a proud moment for her and those who have had the privilege to work alongside her. The world of IT is undoubtedly better because of leaders like Raji.
“AI has become essential in project management to keep up with today’s fast-paced business demands,” states Rahul Yadav, a trailblazer in project management. His viewpoint highlights artificial intelligence’s (AI) role in boosting efficiency and sparking innovation within organizations. Through his work with machine learning (ML) and predictive analytics, he showcases how integrating AI into project management is beneficial and necessary for success in the modern business environment.
Navigating the AI Transformation in Project Management
Rahul Yadav leads a significant shift in project management through AI integration. His contributions extend beyond his work at Shared Services Canada and Quantum Scientific Technology Canada (QSTC) to founding Feasti, a community-based food platform. His pioneering efforts in leveraging AI technologies have transformed traditional project management practices, particularly in project selection, risk mitigation, and enhancing overall operational efficiency. Through his visionary leadership, he has demonstrated how AI can automate routine tasks, improve decision-making processes, and predict project outcomes with remarkable accuracy, setting a new project management standard for efficiency and innovation.
Under Rahul Yadav’s guidance, project management offices (PMOs) of companies he has worked with have adeptly incorporated AI into their operational framework. His team has achieved unprecedented accuracy in project forecasting and resource allocation by utilizing AI algorithms capable of analyzing vast amounts of data.
This strategic AI application has minimized errors, reduced delays in project timelines, and underscored the impact of AI on project management. His approach exemplifies how AI can optimize project workflows, enabling project managers to focus on strategic decision-making and driving project success.
Trailblazing AI Strategies in Project Management
Additionally, Rahul Yadav’s entrepreneurial and program managerial expertise has been characterized by his innovative use of AI in project management. He has spearheaded the development of AI-powered project management tools, such as an AI-driven dashboard that provides real-time insights into project status, streamlining project workflows and enhancing decision-making. His initiatives in predictive analytics have been groundbreaking, enabling PMOs to address potential issues and achieve greater project success rates proactively.
His significant contribution includes analyzing project risk factors and predicting potential risks using AI algorithms based on historical and external data. Such a proactive risk management approach has enabled PMOs to develop effective strategies to minimize the impact of risks on project outcomes.
Moreover, he has also been pioneering the integration of Natural Language Processing (NLP) technologies into project documentation and communication channels. This integration has been crucial in extracting valuable insights from unstructured data such as project reports, emails, and meeting transcripts, providing deeper insights into project progress and emerging issues.
Rahul Yadav injects adaptability into all of his strategies. He explains, “Agility and adaptability are the bedrock of success in fast-paced environments. What makes my approach distinct is how it navigates evolving circumstances, market conditions, and stakeholder expectations with precision and foresight. This ensures that projects stay on track and deliver value even in dynamic environments.”
Promoting Principled AI Use
Rahul Yadav’s utilization of AI encompasses collaboration, innovation, and ethics. These guide him and his team in how they leverage AI.
A key area where he has made strides is using AI to enhance team dynamics and collaboration. “I’ve contributed to developing AI-powered virtual assistants that support project managers and team members. These assistants automate administrative tasks, schedule meetings, and provide reminders and notifications, enhancing productivity and allowing project teams to focus on strategic activities,” he shares.
By implementing AI-driven tools that facilitate better communication and collaboration among team members, he has created a more cohesive and efficient work environment. These tools help identify team members’ strengths and areas for improvement, allowing for more personalized development plans and fostering a culture of continuous learning and growth.
Furthermore, Rahul Yadav is passionate about driving innovation and entrepreneurship within his organization through AI. He encourages experimentation and risk-taking, allowing his team to explore new ideas and technologies. “I believe in embracing experimentation and creativity in devising solutions that challenge the status quo and pave breakthroughs,” he asserts. Such an environment leads to the development of innovative solutions that can disrupt the market and empowers employees, making them feel valued and part of something bigger.
In all his AI initiatives, he remains committed to the ethical use of AI. He understands the importance of transparency, accountability, and fairness in AI systems and works tirelessly to ensure these principles are embedded in all AI-driven projects. This commitment builds trust among stakeholders and ensures that AI is used to create positive outcomes for society at large.
Envisioning AI’s Role in Future Project Management
Rahul Yadav envisions AI further advancing project management. He notes, “The future of project management lies in the harmonious blend of AI and human expertise, where AI’s analytical prowess complements human strategic thinking.”
His leadership and innovative use of AI in project management have enhanced organizational efficiency and set the stage for a more adaptive and future-ready approach.As AI evolves, its role in shaping project management practices is poised to grow, with visionaries like Rahul Yadav leading the charge.
