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OnePlus Watch 2R review: Cheaper, but not cheap
OnePlus Watch 2R reviewIBT

OnePlus Watch 2R brings a blend of advanced features, impressive battery life, and robust performance to the smartwatch market. OnePlus has put a lot of focus on comfort and durability, and the Watch 2R aims to attract the masses without compromising on essential functionalities. The ergonomic design and lightweight aluminum build make it a comfortable choice for daily wear.

At a competitive price point of Rs 17,999 in India, the OnePlus Watch 2R offers a more affordable alternative to the OnePlus Watch 2 without sacrificing too much on performance and features. The dual-engine architecture, featuring Snapdragon W5 and BES2700 chipsets, ensures efficient power management and smooth operation. Moreover, the inclusion of dual-frequency GPS and a comprehensive suite of Google apps powered by Wear OS 4 further enhance its appeal. The Watch 2R stands out as a viable option for those seeking a reliable and stylish smartwatch on a budget but it is not devoid of flaws.

Let’s take a look at the watch in real-world use-case scenarios.

Design and display

From the moment we strapped the OnePlus Watch 2R to the wrist, one thing that has impressed us is how light it is. The watch looks a bit similar to the OnePlus Watch 2, complete with its ergonomic design featuring two side buttons for quick access to apps and fitness tracking. But don’t expect the premiumness of the Watch 2 for obvious reasons. But it is not standing out with some astonishing design elements, except for that big dial.

OnePlus Watch 2R reviewIBT

The Watch 2R also checks the durability boxes with 5ATM and IP68 standards, which means tracking those laps in the swimming pool or stepping into the shower or rain is not an issue at all. On top of it all, the watch has this printed two-tone bezel design, which is a smart way to hide those bezels around the display by giving it a classic chronometer look.

OnePlus Watch 2R reviewIBT

The 22mm strap latches on to the dial and turns just around the wrist for a comfortable grip. It doesn’t bulge out awkwardly and makes it look like a seamless part of the watch. The quality of the strap is also not sub-standard, and wearing it all day in Milan’s 32-degree summer doesn’t cause any irritation.

OnePlus Watch 2R reviewIBT

OnePlus has demonstrated its engineering prowess in the Watch 2R, even by using low-cost materials compared to the premium Watch 2 to keep the watch’s cost in check. A sensible move to attract the masses and shed a few extra grams in the process.

OnePlus Watch 2R cannot be missed on a wrist. Its sizable presence with a 47mm frame and a 1.43-inch AMOLED screen is hard to ignore, but the elegant designing makes it easy to carry it well with any attire. OnePlus made a switch to an aluminum build from the stainless steel and sapphire crystal on the OnePlus Watch 2, which makes it significantly lighter and more comfortable. And the difference is quite clear. You’ll love it how well it sits on the wrist without tiring you out.

OnePlus Watch 2R reviewIBT

Performance and tracking

OnePlus Watch 2R features Dual-Engine Architecture, which means there are two chipsets inside for different kind of tasks – similar to the more expensive OnePlus Watch 2. The new smartwatch comes with Snapdragon W5 performance chipset paired with the BES2700 efficiency chipset.

The Snapdragon W5 runs the latest version of Wear OS by Google (Wear OS 4), and handles high-performance tasks such as running apps, but the BES2700 is reserved for background activities and daily tasks using RTOS. OnePlus has found this success formula to extend the use of its smartwatch, which was quite a hit with the OnePlus Watch 2. By bringing this feature to the more affordable Watch 2R, OnePlus is making a bold statement.

OnePlus Watch 2R reviewIBT

OnePlus Watch 2R is loaded with features, one such is the inclusion of L5 and L1 GPS frequencies. Location tracking is more accurate with this dual-frequency design, and two separate antennas. There were no issues with the location tracking while using the smartwatch for this brief period. This feature, however, is of significance to outdoor enthusiasts and athletes.

OnePlus Watch 2R reviewIBT

In case of real-life tracking, we managed to achieve most of our set goals these few days. Comparing it side by side with Apple Watch, there seems to be some margin of error. The step counter appears to add a few hundred extra steps, but it remained largely accurate with distance, calories, heart rate, and location.

OnePlus Watch 2R reviewIBT

OnePlus Watch 2R also includes comprehensive fitness monitoring and wellness features through its OHealth platform. It tracks various health metrics, including sleep patterns, heart rate, and stress levels. There’s also a stress monitor, which uses heart rate variability (HRV) data to calculate a stress score, helping users manage and reduce stress levels effectively. Not sure how accurate this is but it had been normal these last few days (thank you, Milan), we will check once back to the base.
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OnePlus Watch 2R reviewIBT

OnePlus Watch 2R reviewIBT
But it surely excelled in sleep tracking, offering accurate data. It measures the total duration of sleep and segments it into light, deep, and REM sleep cycles, which can be pretty useful.

Software and customization

OnePlus Watch 2R is powered by Wear OS by Google, which means you get access to the whole suite of Google apps such as Google Maps, Google Assistant, Google Wallet, and Google Calendar. What’s interesting and useful is the Fast Pair support for quick and smooth setup with OnePlus smartphones.

OnePlus Watch 2R reviewIBT

With this watch, you get plenty customization options. There are over 100 sports tracking modes, 20 built-in watch faces, and 80 downloadable watch faces, which are pretty cool. But getting around the menu is remarkably seamless as you don’t get treated to a whole new UI, just that same old Wear OS goodness.

OnePlus Watch 2R reviewIBT

Battery life to the rescue

One of the standout features of the OnePlus Watch 2R is its large 500mAh battery, which is fitted inside this compact and lightweight smartwatch. It is combined with the Dual-Engine Architecture, which further optimises the battery to extend efficiently. With the promise to offer users up to 100 hours of usage in Smart Mode with full functionality, 48 hours with heavy use, and up to 12 days in Power Saver Mode, the Watch 2R lives up to the reputation. Once charged, you won’t have to worry about plugging it back in at the end of the day. If you’re comfortable enough, you can wear it to bed or even shower. OnePlus Watch 2R is a battery monster.

If that’s not enough, there’s 7.5W VOOC Fast Charging support, which can charge the watch to 100% in just 60 minutes. That’s not even the best part. Being on the go and travelling these past few days, we’ve come to realise just how essential a quick top-up is. With just ten-minute charge, we could get an entire day of battery life in Smart Mode, which meant tracking all the steps and other metrics while walking around Duomo di Milano and Navigli. If you’re in the market for a smartwatch that lasts long enough to track your runs, laps or health without dying at the end of the day, look no further than the Watch 2R.

Verdict

OnePlus Watch 2R offers impressive battery life, and robust performance in a sleek and durable design. The dual-frequency GPS, extensive customization options make it a standout option for users seeking a stylish and durable smartwatch. While the health tracking may not be a 100% accurate, it still offers comprehensive health and wellness features. The lack of cloud backup and automatic tracking may be a turn-off for some, but it manages to do pretty well in all other segments.

It’s worth noting that OnePlus Watch 2R is priced at Rs 17,999 in India, and for a few extra thousand bucks, you can get the Watch 2, which is essentially more premium and has that extra finesse. But by saving that Rs 7,000 and choosing the Watch 2R over the Watch 2, you can actually pick up a pair of good earbuds or even the new OnePlus Nord Buds 3 Pro (Rs 3,299) and still save some. As a part of the ecosystem, OnePlus Watch 2R makes more sense.
July 16, 2024
OnePlus Nord 4 review: The “Never Settle” ambition lives on
OnePlus Nord 4 reviewIBT

It’s a pleasant evening in Milan and OnePlus picked this fashion capital of the world to take the wraps off its latest product range: the all-new Nord 4, Nord Buds 3 Pro, Watch 2r and Pad 2. One thing these new products seem to have in common with Milan is just how stylish they are. But there can only be one showstopper and it is Nord 4. OnePlus has spent a great deal on this phone’s look and feel. But is this phone as good as it looks? Let’s find out.

OnePlus Nord 4 may have left very little to everyone’s imagination with all the pictures and videos out, but we set out to put this phone through our routine tests and trials. Here’s a quick look at the phone’s key specs before we move forward.

OnePlus Nord 4: Key specs
1. Display: 6.74 inch 1.5K Super Fluid AMOLED
2. Camera: 50MP Sony LYTIA, OIS, EIS + 112-degree 8MP ultrawide lens
3. Selfie: 16MP
4. CPU: Snapdragon 7 Plus Gen 3
5. RAM: 8/12/16 GB LPDDR5X
6. Storage: 128 GB UFS3.1 / 256 GB or 512GB UFS4.0
7. Battery: 5,500mAh with 100W SUPERVOOC
8. Software: OxygenOS 14.1
9. Add-ons: IP65, dual stereo speakers, Alert Slider
Pricing: OnePlus Nord 4 has been launched with some special offers: Rs 28,999 (8+256GB) and Rs 31,999 (12+256GB) in the case of pre-orders (20th July–30th July 2024). The open sale begins on August 2 and the prices will be Rs 27,999 (8+128 GB); Rs 29,999 (8+256GB) and Rs 32,999 (12+256 GB). The actual market prices are set at Rs 29,999 (8+128GB); Rs 32,999 (8+256GB) and Rs 35,999 (12+256 GB).

Note: OnePlus sent us the Nord 4 for review purposes. The device is in Mercurial Silver shade, running OxygenOS 14.1 following a software update.

Quick overview

OnePlus Nord 4 levels up a big way. From metallic construction to capable cameras and powerful performance, the Nord 4 is a complete mid-ranger. The design is premium, battery tech is the latest and software support is as expected. It’s got an IP65 rating, dual stereo speakers, AI sprinkled here and there and the signature Alert Slider. What more can you ask for? Well, the Nord 4 checks all the right boxes.

Design

The OnePlus Nord 4 brings a significant leap in design aesthetics and functionality, presenting a matte silver variant with a 2D laser-etched design, aptly named Mercurial Silver. This unique design features over 28,000 nano-laser cuts, creating an intricate texture that plays with light and shadow, giving an almost dynamic appearance, OnePlus says. And the craftsmanship is so refined that it creates an illusion of texture on the back, which, surprisingly, is smooth to the touch, but a contradiction that teases the senses.

OnePlus Nord 4 reviewIBT

The challenge of incorporating metal without obstructing 5G antennas has been ingeniously addressed. Inside the phone’s rear cover, a series of small pillars allow the antennas to be half the size of traditional ones while still maintaining robust 5G signal clarity. Furthermore, the metal body of the Nord 4 acts as an amplifier, enhancing signal strength. There were no issues while using the network in India, but couldn’t put it through to testing in Milan.

OnePlus Nord 4 reviewIBT

The repositioned horizontal camera layout not only makes room for a larger battery, but also contributes to a balanced weight distribution. The physical buttons are thoughtfully placed on the right side, ensuring they are easily accessible. The Alert Slider provides a satisfying click, ideal for fidgeting, and the USB Type-C port sits conveniently at the bottom alongside the stereo speaker grille. Overall, the design of the Nord 4 is arguably the best in the Nord series, showcasing OnePlus’s commitment to innovation and user-centric design.
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OnePlus Nord 4 reviewIBT

OnePlus Nord 4 reviewIBT
Display

OnePlus Nord 4 boasts a 6.74-inch 1.5K display with a pixel density of 450 pixels per inch, ensuring that images and videos are rendered with detail. The display is bright, with a peak brightness of 2,150 nits, making text readable outdoors. But it can get tricky in direct sunlight, especially when the sun shines on a 37-degree summer afternoon. The smooth 120Hz refresh rate guarantees a seamless viewing experience, whether you’re scrolling through social media or playing games.

OnePlus Nord 4 reviewIBT

A standout feature is the ProXDR, inherited from the OnePlus 12 series. This technology dynamically adjusts the brightness and clarity of images and videos in the gallery, presenting them in their best possible light.

AquaTouch technology is another notable addition, especially useful in places like Bangalore where sudden drizzles are common. A hilarious representation of this feature was done at the launch and we did try it out by sprinkling some water drops to send out texts and voila, it works. This feature ensures that the screen responds accurately to touch inputs even when wet, ignoring accidental raindrop touches.

OnePlus Nord 4 reviewIBT

Camera

OnePlus Nord 4’s camera setup is designed to cater to a wide range of photography needs. It features a 50-megapixel Sony LYT-600 sensor that excels in capturing high-quality images, especially portrait shots. Having shot a few portraits in different light conditions, it is clear that the subject identification and outlining are on point. The colours pop in well-lit scenes, but harsh sunlight can imbalance the dynamic range at times. In case of low lighting, the camera captures decent shots, retaining a good colour palette. But it is wise to stick to the primary lens rather than switch to the ultra-wide.

OnePlus Nord 4 reviewIBT

But speaking of ultrawide, the 112-degree 8-megapixel ultra-wide lens is perfect for capturing expansive landscape shots, something we did a lot in Milan, as you can see from the samples below. The colours are retained well in daylight, corners aren’t losing a lot of details, and the HDR is well balanced around the centre.

For selfie enthusiasts, the 16-megapixel front camera is finely tuned to produce stunning portrait shots. You’ll not be disappointed with the results as the colours and contrast are handled with care, without artificial vibrancy added in.

Check out the camera samples below:

Performance

At the heart of the OnePlus Nord 4 is the octa-core 4-nanometre Qualcomm Snapdragon 7 Plus Gen 3 chip, an upgrade from the Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 chip. The new processor delivers reliable all-round performance but what’s interesting to note here are some AI features.

For instance, the CPU-Vita technology uses AI to optimize the Snapdragon chip’s performance, balancing high performance with system load to conserve energy and extend battery life. Then there’s the RAM-Vita technology, which boosts memory management for a smooth multitasking experience.

OnePlus Nord 4 reviewIBT

Having used the phone for day-to-day tasks, it becomes clear that it can handle it all. Once set up, the Nord 4 manages everything from calls to IMs and gaming to multimedia consumption. Since OnePlus chose metal this time, there were some reservations regarding the heat dissipation. But it managed it quite well. Even during extended camera use or binge-watching series, the phone kept its cool. Extensive gaming did warm up the phone a bit, but nothing to the extent where it’d be difficult to hold it (since metal and all).

Software

OnePlus continues its software supremacy with the Nord 4 by offering a clean and smooth UI experience. Users will be relieved to know that this device comes with four years of major software updates and two additional years of security updates, which is the longest for the series.

One big part of OxygenOS is its AI-powered features, such as AI Audio Summary for transcribing meetings, AI Note Summary for summarizing emails, and AI Text Translate. They work as intended.

An interesting feature has been included as well, called the AI Linkboost, which improves connectivity by reconnecting to mobile networks faster. Though no network issues were noted during the review period, we will update if it changes with long-term use.

The clean UI image is marred by some pre-installed apps like Facebook, Netflix, LinkedIn, Agoda, Booking.com, and Microsoft 365. Some are useful, but as for the rest, they are easily removable or can be disabled.

Battery

OnePlus Nord 4’s battery is flagship-grade tech. The 5,500 mAh battery supports SUPERVOOC charging, which can charge the phone from 1% to 100% in less than half an hour. This way, you won’t have to wait for the phone to power up before you use it again.

But battery health remains a concern with such fast charging technology. OnePlus says it has tested 1,600 charging cycles while maintaining more than 80% of its original capacity, which means it should last four years in theory. But our bet is on the Battery Health Engine technology, which uses AI to analyze charging habits and optimize power usage.

As for the usage, the phone can easily last a whole day with mixed usage and light users can manage beyond a day. Heavy users will have to plug the phone in at the end of the day, but if you’re gaming, then consider plugging in the device sooner. For most users, around 6.5 hours of screen-on-time can be safely expected.

Conclusion

OnePlus Nord 4 is a major upgrade in terms of design. The visually stunning and tactile design, its bright display, great primary camera and reliable performance make the Nord 4 stand out in the mid-range smartphone market. The device caters to casual users, but heavy users can also make the most of this device. In a mid-range segment, OnePlus Nord 4 offers a premium experience at a reasonable price point.

With features like IP65 rating, dual stereo speakers, AI features, and the signature Alert Slider, the Nord 4 embodies the “Never Settle” philosophy.

OnePlus Nord 4 is by far the best Nord ever and with its pricing, it is positioned strongly in the Indian mid-range market.
July 16, 2024
Innovations in Cloud Security for Retail: Protecting Customer Data and Ensuring PCI Compliance

In recent years, cloud computing has become a critical component of the retail sector, driving innovation and enhancing customer experiences. However, the shift to the cloud also introduces significant security challenges, particularly in safeguarding customer data and adhering to Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) compliance. This article delves into the security innovations that retailers are leveraging to mitigate these risks and ensure robust protection of sensitive information.

The Role of Cloud Computing in Retail

Cloud computing has revolutionized retail operations by enabling scalability, flexibility, and real-time data analysis. The retail cloud market is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 16.3% from 2021 to 2026, reaching $51.39 billion. The surge in online shopping fuels this growth, the necessity for scalable IT infrastructure, and the demand for instant data insights. A survey revealed that 72% of retail executives consider cloud computing vital for business growth.

The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the shift to online shopping, with a 44% increase in online sales in 2020 compared to the previous year. This surge has compelled retailers to adopt cloud technologies that can handle increased traffic and transactions while offering advanced analytics and AI capabilities to personalize the shopping experience and drive sales.

Security Challenges in Retail Cloud Computing

Cloud computing offers benefits but brings security risks. Retailers must protect customer data and comply with PCI DSS. With online shopping’s rise, securing payment methods is crucial. In 2019, weak web application firewall protection led to a breach exposing over 100 million credit card numbers.

Retailers store vast amounts of sensitive customer information, making them prime targets for cyberattacks. The average data breach cost in retail is around $3.29 million, and it typically takes 243 days to detect and contain a breach. Small and medium-sized retailers are particularly vulnerable, with 60% shutting down within six months of a cyberattack.

E-skimming, where hackers inject malicious code into websites to steal payment information, is a growing threat. Additionally, insider threats, whether malicious or accidental, pose significant risks. A study found that 55% of retailers experienced an insider-related security incident in the past year.

Cybercriminals continuously develop new attack methods, creating an evolving threat landscape. To stay ahead of these threats, retailers must adopt proactive security strategies, which have been shown to be 2.2 times more effective than reactive approaches.

Innovative Cloud Security Solutions

To address these challenges, retailers are adopting cloud security measures like encrypting data in transit and at rest to prevent unauthorized access. Tokenization replaces sensitive information with unique identifiers. Studies indicate that extensive use of encryption and tokenization can lower data breach costs by 29%.

Intrusion Detection and Prevention Systems (IDPS) monitor network activities for suspicious behavior and alert security teams to potential threats. When combined with Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) systems, which provide real-time analysis of security alerts, IDPS can significantly enhance cloud security.

Adhering to PCI DSS guidelines is crucial for protecting credit card information and preventing fraud. Retailers must ensure their cloud infrastructure meets these standards, implement strong access controls, and conduct regular security assessments.

Multi-factor authentication (MFA) adds an extra layer of security by requiring additional verification, such as a fingerprint or one-time code, beyond just a password. This significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized access. Microsoft reports that MFA can prevent 99.9% of account compromise attempts. Several retailers have successfully implemented these security measures, demonstrating their effectiveness.

In conclusion, integrating cloud computing in retail is essential for scalability, flexibility, and real-time data analysis. However, it introduces new security challenges that must be addressed to protect customer data and comply with PCI DSS standards. By implementing robust security measures such as encryption, tokenization, IDPS, and MFA, retailers can enhance their cloud security posture, protect sensitive information, and maintain customer trust. Amarnath Ragula’s work focuses on innovative solutions to safeguard customer data in the evolving retail landscape.

July 16, 2024
The Transformative Role of Machine Learning in Financial Forecasting

In recent years, machine learning has emerged as a transformative technology in the financial sector, particularly in consumer banking. By leveraging historical data and identifying complex patterns, ML models enable banks to make more accurate predictions and data-driven decisions. According to a survey by the European Banking Authority, 64% of banks in the European Union have already implemented ML in their financial forecasting processes, with an additional 23% planning to do so within the next two years. In this article, you can explore the transformative impact of machine learning (ML) on financial forecasting in consumer banks based on Het Mistry’s insights on how ML enhances various banking functions.

Fraud Detection

One of the most significant applications of ML in banking is fraud detection. Traditional methods often fail to detect sophisticated fraudulent activities, but ML models such as Isolation Forest, Autoencoders, and One-Class Support Vector Machines (SVMs) have proven highly effective. These models analyze vast amounts of transaction data, differentiating between normal and suspicious behavior.

For example, JPMorgan Chase’s ML model monitors the spending patterns of its 50 million credit card customers in real time, flagging unusual transactions and preventing fraud. Similarly, Danske Bank’s real-time ML-based system analyzes over 5 million transactions daily, significantly reducing financial losses due to fraud.

Customer Segmentation and Personalization

Understanding customer needs is crucial for enhancing satisfaction and loyalty. ML techniques, particularly clustering algorithms like K-Means and DBSCAN, enable banks to segment customers based on behavior, spending patterns, and demographics. This segmentation allows for targeted marketing campaigns and personalized product recommendations.

Bank of America, for instance, used ML algorithms to identify 45 distinct customer segments, leading to increased engagement and loyalty. Additionally, recommender systems provide personalized financial product suggestions, improving adoption rates and customer satisfaction. Capital One’s ML-based system, which offers customized credit card suggestions, saw a 15% increase in credit card adoption and a 20% boost in customer satisfaction.

Predictive Analytics for Customer Behavior

Anticipating customer behavior is essential for proactive service optimization. ML models, including Logistic Regression and Random Forests, predict customer churn by analyzing behavior patterns. Santander Bank, for example, developed an ML model analyzing over 200 variables to predict account closures.

This approach allowed Santander to implement targeted retention strategies, reducing customer churn by 15%. Moreover, ML models estimate the lifetime value (LTV) of customers, helping banks allocate resources more effectively. HSBC’s ML-based LTV prediction model enabled the bank to prioritize high-value customers, optimizing customer acquisition and retention efforts.

Financial Forecasting for Strategic Planning

Accurate financial forecasting is critical for strategic decision-making and risk management. ML models analyze historical financial data and market trends, offering more accurate predictions than traditional methods. JPMorgan Chase’s deep learning model, DeepFX, predicts foreign exchange rates with remarkable accuracy, optimizing currency trading strategies and minimizing risk.

Additionally, Machine Learning revolutionizes banking with fraud detection, customer personalization, predictive analytics, and strategic planning. Innovations like Bank of America’s stress testing framework highlight ML’s transformative impact on financial forecasting.

Interest Rate and Pricing Optimization

Optimizing interest rates and product pricing is complex, requiring consideration of market conditions, competition, and customer risk profiles. ML models enable dynamic adjustments in real-time, using regression analysis and reinforcement learning techniques. Wells Fargo’s ML model analyzes customer data and market conditions to determine optimal loan interest rates, improving profitability and customer satisfaction. While Citibank’s LSTM-based model forecasts interest rate movements, optimizing its bond portfolio and reducing exposure to interest rate risk.

In all, ML is revolutionizing financial forecasting in consumer banking, enhancing fraud detection, personalizing customer experiences, predicting behavior, aiding strategic planning, and optimizing pricing. As ML technologies advance, their application in financial forecasting will continue to transform consumer banking, ensuring banks remain competitive in a data-driven industry.

July 16, 2024
India can do to AI what China did to manufacturing: Bhavish Aggarwal

Ola Founder and CEO Bhavish Aggarwal on Sunday said that with the kind of talent India has, it will become a global leader in artificial intelligence (AI) the way China became in manufacturing.

In a post on social media platform X, Aggarwal said it will not “automatically happen unless we make it happen”.

India has the largest number of developers in the world.

“It also has largest number of silicon designers in the world, largest amount of data in the world and largest IT services industry in the world,” said Ola Electric CEO.

The India AI Mission has been approved with an outlay of Rs 10,372 crore and out of this, Rs 2,000 crore would be utilised towards supporting the Indian startup ecosystem to develop indigenous AI-based solutions. According to the latest IDC report, the spending on AI and Generative AI (GenAI) in India is projected to reach $6 billion by 2027, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 33.7 per cent.

(With inputs from IANS)

July 15, 2024
OpenAI goes advanced, begins working on new AI model ‘Strawberry’

IANS

OpenAI is reportedly working on a cutting-edge approach to its artificial intelligence models in a project code-named “Strawberry”, with claims of advanced human reasoning capabilities.

The Strawberry project was earlier known as Q*. The latter was widely reported about in 2023 and seen as a breakthrough in AI development. The project now has a renewed buzz surrounded by secrecy and speculation.

An OpenAI company spokesperson said in a generalised statement as reported by Reuters last week that “We want our AI models to see and understand the world more like we do. Continuous research into new AI capabilities is a common practice in the industry, with a shared belief that these systems will improve in reasoning over time.”

AIIANS

What can it do?

According to the Reuters exclusive report, Open AI’s Strawberry models are aimed at “enabling the company’s AI to not just generate answers to queries but to plan ahead enough to navigate the internet autonomously and reliably to perform what OpenAI terms ‘deep research’.”

Further, based on an exclusive view of the OpenAI documentation, the report stated “among the capabilities OpenAI is aiming Strawberry at is performing long-horizon tasks (LHT), the document says, referring to complex tasks that require a model to plan ahead and perform a series of actions over an extended period of time, the first source explained.”

OpenAI specifically wants its models to use these capabilities to conduct research by browsing the web autonomously with the assistance of a “CUA,” or a computer-using agent, that can take actions based on its findings, according to the document and one of the sources.

Strawberry includes a specialized way of what is known as “post-training” OpenAI’s generative AI models. The post-training phase of developing a model involves methods like “fine-tuning,” a process used on nearly all language models such as having humans give feedback to the model based on its responses and feeding it examples of good and bad answers.

Differences from current models

While the spokesperson did not directly address questions about Strawberry from Reuters, two sources described viewing earlier this year “what OpenAI staffers told them were Q* demos, capable of answering tricky science and math questions out of reach of today’s commercially-available models.”

While large language models (LLMs) can already perform various functions like summarisation, translation, information processing and content creation at extremely high speeds, the report stated “the technology often falls short on common sense problems whose solutions seem intuitive to people, like recognizing logical fallacies and playing tic-tac-toe. When the model encounters these kinds of problems, it often “hallucinates” bogus information.”

More human?

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman said earlier this year, that in AI “the most important areas of progress will be around reasoning ability.” Researchers reportedly interviewed said that “reasoning is key to AI achieving human or super-human-level intelligence.”

Improving reasoning in AI models is seen as the key to unlocking the ability for the models to do everything from making major scientific discoveries to planning and building new software applications.

Standford professor Noah Goodman when asked about the technology by Reuters said “I think that is both exciting and terrifying…if things keep going in that direction we have some serious things to think about as humans.” It was reported that Goodman is not affiliated with OpenAI and is not familiar with Strawberry.

July 15, 2024
NITI Aayog launches hackathon to accelerate zero-emission truck adoption in India

IANS

NITI Aayog, on Sunday, announced the launch of the GearShift challenge as part of the e-FAST India initiative.

The hackathon is in collaboration with Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Bangalore, Smart Freight Centre India, CALSTART/Drive to Zero, and WRI India.

It “will help foster innovative business models for the adoption of zero-emission trucks (ZETs) in India, and also address the nation’s pressing economic and environmental challenges,” NITI Aayog said.

As part of the hackathon, students, transport service practitioners, academics, and researchers will develop innovative business models that address financial, technical, and operational challenges in the adoption of electric trucks.

In the first round, teams will submit their initial business models addressing a specific barrier — technical, operational, or financial — that is supported by high-level strategies and research.

Those shortlisted will then present detailed business models with an implementation roadmap, backed by both primary and secondary research.

The proposals will be mentored by industry leaders to ensure practical and impactful solutions, NITI Aayog said.

“India’s freight sector is vital to the economy, ensuring the smooth delivery of goods to over 1.4 billion people. With road freight accounting for a staggering 55 per cent of India’s annual diesel consumption and nearly 40 per cent of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from road transport, there is an urgent need to transition to more sustainable solutions,” the apex public policy think tank said.

It noted that the “electrification of freight transportation is a key priority, as electric trucks offer a transformative opportunity to reduce emissions, improve air quality, and enhance energy security.”

“The GearShift Challenge marks a pivotal move towards sustainable freight transportation in India,” NITI Aayog said.

The hackathon will tap into the creativity and expertise of participants, and help generate practical solutions that will accelerate the adoption of zero-emission trucks. It will both benefit the economy and the environment.

(With inputs from IANS)

July 14, 2024
Pioneering Innovator Nikhil Ghadge Transforms User Data Protection for Millions

Image Credit: Nikhil Ghadge

“In data, the real challenge isn’t just managing identities; it’s ensuring each one is secure and treated with respect,” says Nikhil Ghadge, software architect team lead at Okta. His focus on securing each individual’s identity marks another step forward in data protection.

Ghadge’s work at Okta structuring systems prioritizing user security is changing how organizations handle individual identities—ensuring a safer digital world.

The Rising Need for Sophisticated Identity Management

Today, data breaches and identity theft are rampant, and there is an urgent call for enhanced data protection mechanisms. Statistics in 2023 showed an alarming increase in security incidents. Ghadge has been proactive in addressing these challenges through his technical expertise.

The greatest of Ghadge’s initiatives is Okta’s Universal Directory (UD), a sophisticated identity management solution for managing millions of identities across diverse sectors.

For instance, a large healthcare provider uses UD to manage access for thousands of employees across multiple facilities, ensuring that sensitive patient data remains secure and accessible only to authorized personnel. Yet another testament to the recognition of Okta’s product is the recent decision by both the United States Air Force and United States Space Force to adopt Okta for enterprise-level usage. This means Okta will now serve as the identity solution for a wide range of individuals including airmen, guardians, civilians, contractors, spouses, dependents, beneficiaries, and beyond.

Scalability and Cloud-Native Benefits

“The goal was to build a system that not only scales seamlessly but also maintains its integrity under any load,” Ghadge explains, referring to the cloud-native nature of the UD, which displays excellent performance compared to traditional infrastructures which are some on-prem solutions, eg, Active Directory, Oracle Internet Directory (OID). A cloud-based approach facilitates operational agility and enhances data security, a concern for organizations of all sizes.

The delegated administration feature within UD allows precise role-based access controls, which is crucial for managing the complex permissions required in large organizations. Moreover, Okta’s REST APIs enable further customization and integration, catering to specific business needs. This flexibility has allowed companies to integrate bespoke solutions that improve user experience and security.

Regarding his emphasis on security, Ghadge says, “Every login is a potential vulnerability. Our job is to ensure it isn’t,” referring to the billions of authentications handled by his team.

While many laud the advancements made by the Universal Directory, critics throughout cybersecurity stress the dangers of centralized repositories—stating that they become high-value targets for malicious actors. Ghadge is aware of these concerns, stressing Okta’s continuous efforts to develop resilient systems.

Protection at the Macro Level

With petabytes of user data at stake, Nikhil Ghadge reflects on the future of digital identity management. “Tech will advance, and so will the methods to exploit it. Our job is to stay ahead, ensuring we stay secure and efficient in equal amounts,” he states.

Ghadge has enhanced Okta’s capabilities and set new standards for data protection in various industries. With tools like the Universal Directory, one thing is sure—the industry is geared toward security like never before.

July 13, 2024
Get Ready For The Groundbreaking Technology Showcase At BTS 2024

BTS 2024

A 3-day event celebrating Innovation and Global Collaboration

Event to be held from 19-21 November 2024

Chief Minister Hosts Interactive Breakfast Meet with 200+ CEOs and Leaders from Prominent Tech Sectors

BENGALURU: Shri Priyank Kharge, Hon’ble Minister for Information Technology & Biotechnology and RDPR, Government of Karnataka, announced the 27th edition of Asia’s largest Technology Show, Bengaluru Tech Summit (BTS) 2024, at a Press Conference held in Bengaluru today. Scheduled from November 19-21 2024 at the iconic Bangalore Palace, BTS 2024 will once again position Bengaluru at the forefront of global tech innovation & collaboration.

Ahead of this press conference, a Breakfast meeting was held where Shri Siddaramaiah, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Karnataka, engaged in an interactive session with over 200 CEOs from India’s leading IT, Semiconductor & Electronics, AVGC, Biotech and Startup organizations. This 2-hour interactive meeting also saw the presence of Shri D.K. Shivakumar, Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister of Karnataka; Shri Priyank Kharge, Hon’ble Minister for Information Technology & Biotechnology and RDPR, Government of Karnataka, Shri Prashanth Prakash, Chairman, Vision Group on Startups, Govt. of Karnataka and Dr. Ekroop Caur, IAS, Secretary to Government, Dept. of E, IT, Bt and S&T, Govt. of Karnataka. The goal of this meeting was to foster an open dialogue between government officials and tech leadership, centered on Karnataka’s vibrant tech ecosystem and prospects. The discussions were facilitated by prominent industry associations including NASSCOM, IESA, TiE Bangalore, and ABLE. The Department of Electronics, Information Technology & Biotechnology Govt. of Karnataka, also presented an ‘Action Taken Report’ addressing the industry representatives’ feedback from the 2023 Breakfast Meeting.

An overview of the upcoming BTS 2024 was presented, with the continued event theme “Breaking Boundaries,” highlighting how technology transcends traditional sector, country, culture, and industry boundaries. Karnataka, with Bengaluru at its heart, is a global technology hub known for its vibrant ecosystem fostering innovation and entrepreneurship. BTS 2024 takes forward this vision, creating unbound opportunities for idea exchange, business growth, and international collaborations. The unique feature of BTS is that all the leading industry associations like NASSCOM, IESA, ABLE, TiE Bangalore, and ABAI as well as USIBC and AMCHAM partner with the event.

The multi-stage Conference at BTS 2024 will serve as a vibrant hub for the exchange of new ideas. Spanning six focused tracks over 3 days, the Conference will cover IT & Deep Tech, Biotech & Health, Startup Ecosystem, Global Innovation Alliance, India-USA Tech Conclave, and the newly added Electro-Semicon track. The Conference will host over 85 sessions featuring 460+ speakers. Each of these tracks is curated by a committee of experts from the industry, research, and academia. Special programs like the CEO Conclave, Startup Conclave, and Fireside Chats with renowned personalities will also be featured.

The newly introduced Electro-Semicon track will spotlight cutting-edge advancements in sectors such as Telecom, Mobility, Manufacturing, Consumer Electronics, and Semiconductors. This track will emphasize breakthroughs in electronic components, semiconductor technologies, and integrated circuits, showcasing innovations that are driving the future of these pivotal industries.

This year, there will be an increased focus on B2B meetings, allowing delegates and companies to engage in more structured and productive sessions. Attendees can schedule meetings with the prospects well in advance and connect with participants seamlessly during the event. The exciting lineup for BTS will be conveniently accessible through a dedicated Event App. The app will also provide real-time updates and personalized recommendations to enhance the overall event experience.

In addition, BTS2024 will also feature a Hackathon where problem statements from various government departments will be presented. Industry partners will provide the necessary infrastructure, support, and mentorship to startups pitching solutions. The selected startups will have the opportunity to present their innovative solutions at BTS2024.

Strategic Roundtables with GCCs, investors, startup ecosystem, Beyond Bengaluru and more will be held to create a roadmap for Karnataka’s continued leadership

The International Exhibition with over 700 Exhibitors at BTS2024 will be a major highlight with focused pavilions on Corporate & Industry, Global Innovation Alliance, Startup Zone, STPI National Showcase, MSME Pavilion, R&D Pavilion (Lab to Market), Leading States of India, Karnataka Showcase and Technology Parks. This year there is a special emphasis on the sectorial pavilions such as Biotech & Healthtech, Electro & Semicon, Telecom, Spacetech, Mobility, Greentech, Edutech, BFSI & Fintech, and Animation & Gaming.

BTS 2024 will honor achievement and excellence at a prestigious Awards Ceremony, featuring accolades such as the STPI IT Export Awards, Smart Bio Awards, Startup & Investor Awards, and more.

This edition marks a milestone for one of its key show elements- the TCS Rural IT Quiz– as it celebrates its silver jubilee. The Finale of the BioQuiz will also be held during the event. These national-level quiz competitions are aimed at creating a talent pool in IT and Biotech Sectors. Another initiative, the Bio Posters- Walkway of Discovery, provides a platform for research students and graduates to showcase their innovative concepts and ideas, fostering recognition of young talent.

Shri Priyank Kharge, Hon’ble Minister for Information Technology & Biotechnology and RDPR, Government of Karnataka said, “Karnataka serves as the headquarters for major tech giants, GCCs, and leading unicorns. This success stems not only from the State’s industry-friendly policies and programs but also from our active engagement and collaboration with the complete tech ecosystem. We also deeply value our close association with Global Innovation Alliance Partners and with them, BTS attracts the world’s foremost leaders, innovators, and disruptors, drawing over 50,000 tech enthusiasts from India and more than 40 nations.”

BTS 2024 anticipates hosting several international delegates from Global Innovation Alliance Partner Nations. The Global Collaborations Track in the Conference will feature sessions curated by these GIA Partner Countries. Tech nations worldwide will showcase their technological prowess in the International pavilion of the Exhibition.

BTS 2024 is expected to have participation from 40+ Countries, with 460+ Speakers in over 85 Sessions, 5000+ Delegates, 500+ start-ups, and 700+ Exhibitors, with an overall expo footfall of 50,000+.

The Press Conference was also addressed by Dr. Ekroop Caur, IAS, Secretary to Government, Department of E, IT, Bt and S&T, Govt. of Karnataka; Shri B.V. Naidu, Chairman, Karnataka Digital Economy Mission; Shri Shailendra Tyagi, Director, Software Technology Parks of India- Bengaluru, Shri Darshan H.V, IAS, Director, Dept. of E, IT, Bt and Managing Director, KITS, Govt. of Karnataka and Ms. Ruchi Bindal, IAS, Deputy Secretary, Dept. of E, IT, Bt, and S&T, Govt. of Karnataka.

July 13, 2024
Bengaluru Tech Summit: K’taka govt holds pre-event breakfast meet with industry leaders

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Friday inaugurated a pre-event breakfast meeting related to the Bengaluru Tech Summit at a private hotel in the city.

Addressing the event, CM Siddaramaiah stated, “Bengaluru Tech Summit (BTS), the flagship programme of the Government of Karnataka, is a key initiative of our state government for the last 26 years.”

BTS provides an impactful platform to bring together the best minds in technology and innovation. It is Asia’s biggest technology conclave which will be held from November 19 to 21, 2024.

“The theme for the 27th edition of Bengaluru Tech Summit is Breaking Boundaries. The theme emphasises on the importance of collaboration between diverse sectors to drive innovation,” senior Congress leader Siddaramaiah stated.

“Let us continue to dream big, work together, and make Karnataka the undisputed leader in technology and innovation. And as part of this mission, I look forward to your suggestions and opinions to take our state to new heights in technology-driven industry and also seek your active participation in BTS 2024 and make it a grand success,” CM Siddaramaiah added.

Dy CM, DK Shivakumar appealed, “The world sees India through Bengaluru. Our government is committed to Bengaluru’s development. Entrepreneurs, employees should not leave Bengaluru and go to neighbouring states.”

“Karnataka welcomes people from around the world and the country without any restrictions. As entrepreneurs prosper, so do job seekers. Economic and national strength is growing,” he stressed.

“About 1.4 crore people from all over the country have settled in Bengaluru and the pressure on the city should be reduced. Therefore, an environment should be created to set up industries in all parts of the state. About Rs 8,000 crore of CSR funds should be used for rural education,” Dy CM Shivakumar suggested.

(With inputs from IANS)

July 12, 2024