Category: Technology

  • Tech Data and Dell Technologies Sign MoU to Drive AI Adoption through Dell AI Factory – CRN

    Tech Data and Dell Technologies Sign MoU to Drive AI Adoption through Dell AI Factory – CRN

    Tech Data, and Dell Technologies have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enable the Dell AI Factory in India, a one-stop platform that offers products, solutions and services to accelerate AI adoption across industries.

    With this agreement, Tech Data and Dell will establish a Center of Excellence for Dell to showcase use cases and product demonstrations. They will also collaborate with leading Independent Software Vendors (ISVs) to deliver pre-validated, end-to-end AI solutions. These offerings seamlessly combine Dell’s advanced hardware with specialised software, simplifying AI deployments for partners and empowering them to engage customers confidently and address evolving market needs.

    Tech Data’s Destination AI™ program will further support partners with training, technical guidance, and pre- and post-sales services, accelerating their AI readiness and driving sustainable business growth.

    “We are excited to strengthen our partnership with Dell Technologies and introduce the Dell AI Factory to Channel Partners,” said Sundaresan K., Vice President and Country General Manager, Tech Data Advanced (India) Private Limited. “India’s AI market is expanding rapidly, and Partners are eager to capitalise on the immense opportunities it presents. The Dell AI Factory, combined with our Destination AI™ program, is designed to equip them with the advanced tools and capabilities they need to meet this growing demand and deliver cutting-edge AI solutions to their customers.”

    To further strengthen the AI ecosystem, Tech Data will onboard additional ISVs, enhancing the Dell AI Factory with specialised software solutions that complement Dell’s technology. This will ensure greater adaptability to the unique needs of various industries.

    “At Dell Technologies, we are committed to driving innovation that simplifies and accelerates technology adoption,” said Vivek Malhotra, Senior Director & General Manager, India Channels, Dell Technologies. “Our collaboration with Tech Data to launch the Center of Excellence in India underscores this commitment, offering channel partners a robust platform to deliver tailored AI solutions seamlessly. By combining our expertise through Dell AI Factory and advanced hardware solutions, we are equipping our partners with the tools and expertise necessary to address diverse industry challenges and unlock new growth opportunities in the AI era.”

  • India’s smartphone market on track to cross highest-ever value of $50b in 2025: Counterpoint Research

    India’s smartphone market is on track to achieve its highest-ever value in 2025, crossing $50 billion or around ₹4,28,900 crore, and this milestone will be driven by a value-centric approach from smartphone original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and a rising consumer push towards higher-specification devices.

    According to a report by Counterpoint Research on ‘Outlook for India’s Smartphone Market’ on Friday, the Indian smartphone market is evolving rapidly, with OEMs increasingly focusing on premium launches to strengthen brand equity, showcase technological capabilities and improve profitability.

    Brands like Apple and Samsung are leading this shift by offering competitive options in the premium and ultra-premium segments, it said.

    “Apple is expected to see strong demand for its Pro models, driven by local manufacturing and recent price reductions across its iPhone lineup. Meanwhile, Samsung’s value-focused strategy is gaining traction, particularly with its flagship S series,” Counterpoint said in its report.

    • Also read: Mutual funds want investors to temper expectations

    Apple India has registered a total income of ₹67,121.6 crore, while Samsung reported revenue of ₹71,157.6 crore from the mobile phone vertical in the financial year 2024.

    OnePlus, with the launch of its flagship OnePlus 13, is also aiming to increase its share in the ultra-premium segment (above ₹45,000), it said.

    According to the report, the retail average selling price (ASP) of India’s smartphone market is also expected to cross the $300 mark (around ₹25,700) for the first time in 2025.

    Affordable premium category

    “In the affordable premium category ₹30,000-45,000, brands such as Vivo, Oppo, and OnePlus are attracting consumers by offering advanced camera systems and refined CMF (strong hardware) designs. Vivo’s V series, enhanced by its partnership with Zeiss, and Oppo’s Reno series are performing strongly across channels,” it said.

    Meanwhile, OnePlus is making a comeback by addressing Indian retailers’ concerns related to display and motherboard, which had negatively impacted its performance earlier this year. Besides, the company’s planned investment of ₹6,000 crore in local market expansion is expected to accelerate its recovery and growth, it added.

    The premium segment (above Rs.30,000) is projected to exceed 20 per cent market share by 2025, the report further said adding that the shift towards premiumisation is also being driven by consumers increasingly opting for offline stores, where they can experience premium smartphones first-hand before making a purchase.

    “The growing interest in AI-powered features has further motivated consumers to seek hands-on demonstrations to better understand these innovations and make more informed decisions,” it added.

  • Tata Elxsi to accelerate SDV adoption for next generation mobility with Qualcomm’s Snapdragon automotive platforms – CRN

    Tata Elxsi to accelerate SDV adoption for next generation mobility with Qualcomm’s Snapdragon automotive platforms – CRN

    Tata Elxsi, Inc. has announced its plans to work with Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. to develop and leverage virtual models of Snapdragon® Digital Chassis™ solutions for cloud-native application development. Through the intended technology collaboration, which will be demonstrated at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2025, Tata Elxsi will develop a virtual electronic control unit (ECU) platform for automakers and Tier-1 suppliers using Snapdragon virtual system-on-chips (VSoCs) for the next generation of mobility solutions for passenger, commercial, and off-highway vehicle segments. 

    Tata Elxsi aims to utilise the Snapdragon Digital Chassis VSoCs to help revolutionise the Software-Defined Vehicle (SDV) development process, enabling R&D teams to accelerate software development and validation. By reducing the dependency on hardware availability, this initiative aims to streamline and speed up product development lifecycles, ensuring that advanced mobility solutions reach the market faster and more efficiently.

    At CES 2025, Tata Elxsi will showcase this process using the company’s AVENIR™ SDV suite of solutions integrated with Qualcomm Technologies’ Snapdragon Ride™ Flex SoC. The demonstration will highlight real-world use cases, including mixed-critical workloads for infotainment and advanced driver assistance systems.

    “Our planned work with Qualcomm Technologies reflects Tata Elxsi’s leadership and investments in SDV technologies and the future of cloud-native automotive software development. Tata Elxsi’s AVENIR suite with Snapdragon Digital Chassis solutions offer a high performance, scalable solution for automakers to realise next generation of SDVs. This unique combination of world-class software and system expertise, virtualised models and ready-to-adopt SDV software offers OEMs a compelling and future-ready path to SDVs and next generation mobility,” said Shaju S, Vice President & Head of Transportation Business Unit, Tata Elxsi.

    “Tata Elxsi’s demonstration of enabling Snapdragon virtual SoCs for early development in a cloud-native environment leveraging their AVENIR SDV suite offers the developer community a cost effective, early access to target hardware and reduces time to market for new application development. Access to leading edge, high performance heterogeneous compute environment in the cloud truly enables the future of pre-and post-production approaches to software development. It also facilitates continuous updates of new features throughout the lifecycle of the vehicle, enabling our partners to deliver a rich experience to the end consumer and build new business models,” said Laxmi Rayapudi, VP of Automotive Software Product Management, Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. 

  • Vande Bharat sleeper train hits 180 km/hr in trials

    Vande Bharat sleeper train achieves peak speed of 180 km per hr during trials

    IANS

    The Vande Bharat sleeper train has achieved a peak speed of 180 km per hour during its recent trials. The Ministry of Railways announced this achievement on January 3, stating that the trials will continue until the end of the month. This is a precursor to making this world-class travel experience available to rail commuters across the nation.

    The trials, which concluded on January 2, saw the Vande Bharat sleeper train touch its peak speed in a loaded condition. The train’s impressive performance was demonstrated in a video shared by Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw. The video, shot inside the train, showed a full glass of water adjacent to a mobile on a plain surface. The water remained static, indicating the train’s near constant peak speed of 180 km per hour.

    The trials included a 30-km long run between Kota and Laban in Bundi district of Rajasthan, during which the train reached a peak speed of 180 km/hour. A day earlier, in a 40 km long trial run between Rohal Khurd to Kota, the train again touched the peak of 180 km per hour.

    On the same day, peaks of 170 km/hr and 160km/hr were achieved on the Kota-Nagda and Rohal Khurd-Chau Mahla sections. The minister emphasized that the New Year is set to bring faster and safer rail travel to commuters in India. He stated that after successfully providing a faster, safer, and world-class travel experience to people travelling short and medium distance chair car trains, Indian Railways is now making this a reality for long-distance trains as well.

    Vande Bharat

    IANS

    Once the trials are over, the train will be evaluated by the Railway Safety Commissioner at the maximum speed. Only after passing the final stage, Vande Bharat trains will be officially certified and handed over to Indian Railways for induction and regular service. Passengers are already enjoying reclining seats and world-class travel experience through 136 Vande Bharat trains running across the country on medium and short distances.

    The Vande Bharat Sleeper Express is a significant step towards enhancing the country’s rail infrastructure. In 2023, the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) signed a contract with BEML to produce 10 Vande Bharat trains, each consisting of 16 coaches. Adjustments were made to allow for more water storage capacity in the coaches, enhancing the travel experience but also increasing the overall weight of the train.

    The Indian government has been investing heavily in the railways. In the Union Budget 2024-25, the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi allocated Rs.2.652 trillion towards capital expenditure in the Railways. Union Minister for Railways Ashwini Vaishnaw announced that a whopping Rs.1.08 trillion of the budgetary allocation would be used for enhancing safety measures for the national carrier.

    (With inputs from IANS)

  • IIT Madras, Agriculture Ministry to partner on project VISTAAR to empower farmers

    IIT Madras

    IIT MadrasIANS

    The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras on Thursday announced a collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmer Welfare on Project VISTAAR, which seeks to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the agricultural extension system through digitalisation.

    The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed recently between the Agriculture Ministry and IIT Madras enables them to enrich the VISTAAR platform (Virtually Integrated System to Access Agricultural Resources) with information about start-ups in the agriculture and allied sectors.

    This would enable farmers and other stakeholders in agriculture and allied sectors to be aware of the capabilities and offerings that startups have and easily access them.

    “Agriculture forms the backbone of India’s social and economic rubric. Ensuring a strong agriculture sector therefore becomes a major policy imperative. Start-ups have an important role to play in bringing innovation across the value chain in the agriculture and allied sectors,” said Prof. Thillai Rajan A., Head, the Centre for Research on Start-ups, IIT Madras.

    IIT himalaya mess

    IIT Madras himalaya messWikimedia

    “The startup information platform developed by the Centre for Research on Startups and Risk Financing at IIT Madras along with its incubatee startup YNOS Venture Engine has information about 12,000 start-ups that are connected to the agriculture and farming sectors. This collaboration would bring this rich information within the easy reach of the farmer and contribute to the effectiveness of extension services of the Department of Agriculture and Farmer Welfare significantly,” Rajan added.

    Digitalisation of the existing extension system will expand its outreach substantially and enable every farmer to access high-quality advisory services on crop production, marketing, value, and supply chain management.

    The advisory services will also provide information about all government schemes related to agriculture and allied sectors including rural development from which the farmers can be benefited.

    The process of digitalisation augments the current agricultural extension system by providing timely, contextual, and accurate information and advisories to farmers in agriculture and allied sectors.

    “Innovative technologies of agri-startups contribute towards making agriculture sustainable and climate resilient and therefore connecting the technology of agri-startups with farmers through extension is critical from an access and adoption perspective. The collaboration with IITM would surely pave the way for achieving this objective through VISTAAR DPI for Agriculture Extension,” said Samuel Praveen Kumar, Joint Secretary (Extension), Ministry of Agriculture.

    (With inputs from IANS)

  • India’s solar panel exports surge as world looks beyond China

    solar

    India’s solar panel exports surge as world looks beyond ChinaIANS

    India is emerging as a major exporter of solar photovoltaic (PV) cells as countries look for alternatives to China for sourcing supplies in their switch to renewable energy to fight climate change.

    In April-October FY25, India exported $711.95 million worth of PV cells assembled in modules or panels with 96 per cent of the shipments going to the US with the world’s largest economy turning away from China. India also exported $25 million of photovoltaic cells that were not assembled into modules in April-October FY25 with 90 per cent of the exports going to the US.

    The US was also a key export market for Indian solar photovoltaic (PV) modules, accounting for more than 97 per cent of the country’s solar PV exports in both FY2023 and FY2024.

    India is making significant progress in transitioning from a net importer to a net exporter of solar photovoltaic (PV) products, with the export value rising 23 times to $2 billion in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2024 from FY2022, according to a report by the Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis (IEEFA) and JMK Research & Analytics.

    “Focusing on the US market can benefit the Indian PV manufacturing ecosystem. The exposure to the US market will enable Indian PV manufacturers to attain economies of scale, ultimately enhancing their product quality and competitiveness,” said the report’s contributing author, Vibhuti Garg, Director – South Asia, IEEFA.

    1.45 crore register under PM's rooftop solar scheme, 6.34 lakh panels installed

    India is making significant progress in transitioning from a net importer to a net exporter of solar photovoltaic (PV) productsIANS

    “But, to truly establish India as a global manufacturing hub in the long run, Indian PV manufacturers must focus on upstream backward integration. This will help India maintain its foothold in existing markets while unlocking untapped markets like Europe, Africa, Latin America, etc,” she added.

    At the same time, the report also notes that it is important for PV manufacturers in India to balance the needs of the growing export market with domestic availability.

    India’s electronics sector is gaining prominence, with its share in the country’s exports rising to 7.9 per cent in 2024 from 3.3 per cent in 2014 with solar panel exports also figuring as a major product along with smartphones in the overseas shipment consignments.

    Electronics goods have emerged as the fastest-growing segment in India’s export basket as new manufacturing capacities have come up in the country driven by the success of the Centre’s production-linked incentive (PLI) scheme.

    The PLI scheme and quick clearances by the government are proving to be a major success as global giants look beyond an alienated China for setting up alternative supply chains.

    The country’s electronic exports jumped by a robust 27.4 per cent to $22.5 billion in April-November 2024-25, from $17.66 billion during the same period in 2023-24.

    Electronic goods have now moved up to the third position among the top performers in India’s export sector, next only to engineering products and petroleum, from the sixth position last year.

    (With inputs from IANS)

  • Bengaluru Metro: MP Surya says 1st Yellow Line train to be dispatched from Bengal on Jan 6

    Bengaluru Metro: MP Surya says 1st Yellow Line train to be dispatched from Bengal on Jan 6

    Bengaluru Metro: MP Surya says 1st Yellow Line train to be dispatched from Bengal on Jan 6IANS

    Bengaluru South MP and BJP National Yuva Morcha President Tejasvi Surya said on Thursday that the first train of the Yellow Line of Namma Metro is ready to be dispatched from West Bengal to Bengaluru on January 6.

    “It won’t be long before long-awaited Bengaluru Metro’s Yellow Line starts chugging along. It’s a promise,” he said, indicating that the wait for the commencement of the Yellow Line is going to end soon.

    “We now have the first train ready to be dispatched to Bengaluru on January 6. Titagarh Rail Systems has committed to deliver the second train by the end of January or first week of February and the third in April,” Surya announced.

    They will deliver one train per month and increase it to two trains per month by September, he added.

    Earlier, the MP said, “The main reason for the delay in start of operations is the unavailability of the trains. However, there is some good news finally on this front. Over the last few months, I have been continuously following up with the train manufacturers – Titagarh Rail Systems – to expedite production.”

    “The Minister of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) will visit the manufacturing plant on January 6, flag off the train to Bengaluru and also inspect the plant to help further expedite things,” Surya stated.

    Metro rail

    Commercial operation of Yellow Line connects R.V. Road station to Bommasandra.IANS

    “I will also be present in Kolkata for the same. Like all of you, I am equally frustrated with the repeated delays in the start of the Yellow Line,” he said.

    Bengalureans travelling towards tech hub Electronics City are eagerly waiting for the commercial operation of Yellow Line that connects R.V. Road station to Bommasandra.

    This 18.82-kilometer railway line will have 18 stations and promises travelers relief from traffic jams. The Yellow Lane was scheduled to operate in 2024. Earlier, BMRCL had stated that it will launch commercial operations by January-end 2025.

    The Yellow Line connects Electronics City — home to IT, BT and tech MNC companies – spread over 800 acres. There are approximately 200 IT/ITES company campuses located in Electronic City, including main campuses of Infosys, Wipro, TCS, HCL, Tech Mahindra and Biocon. It is a major tech hub that has established the city’s reputation as the Silicon Valley of India.

    (With inputs from IANS)

  • realme 14 Pro Series 5G to feature world’s first triple flash camera

    realme 14 Pro Series 5G to feature world's first triple flash camera

    realme 14 Pro Series 5G to feature world’s first triple flash cameraIANS

    Smartphone cameras have become ubiquitous, transforming how we document and share our world. From capturing everyday moments to preserving breathtaking scenery, these pocket-sized powerhouses play an increasingly vital role in our lives.

    A great smartphone camera is a sophisticated interplay of several key elements: advanced sensors that capture more light and detail, high-quality lenses that shape and focus the image, innovative features that expand creative possibilities, and intelligent software that processes and enhances the final result.

    The pursuit of the perfect shot drives continuous innovation in mobile photography, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible and empowering us all to become better storytellers.

    The realme 14 Pro Series 5G exemplifies this pursuit of photographic excellence. The device’s camera system isn’t just about taking pictures; it’s about unlocking a new level of visual storytelling. At the heart of this system lies a unique triple-reflection periscope telephoto lens, a feature rarely seen in its segment. This innovative technology shrinks the physics of long-range zoom, allowing you to capture distant details with remarkable clarity and precision.

    Complementing this groundbreaking lens is the world’s first MagicGlow Triple Flash. This isn’t your average flash; it’s a portable professional lighting system, offering adjustable brightness and color temperature to illuminate your subjects perfectly, regardless of the environment.

    Whether you’re shooting in the vibrant chaos of a dimly lit party or capturing the serene beauty of a twilight landscape, the MagicGlow Triple Flash ensures your images are vibrant, detailed, and true to life.

    This portable professional lighting system isn’t affected by environmental interference, giving you consistent and reliable results every time. The rear camera system is a marvel of engineering, headlined by a powerful Sony 50MP OIS sensor (IMX896) and featuring a unique triple-reflection periscope telephoto lens. The realme 14 Pro+ 5G also offers a Triple reflection Periscope lens, that allows you to take stunning pictures, while also reducing the camera weight by 31 per cent and camera volume by 20 per cent.

    Realme C3 launched in India

    Realme is a multinational Chinese consumer electronics manufacturer based in ShenzhenRealme

    This innovative technology, rarely seen in this segment, uses mirrors to fold the light path, enabling an impressive 120X super zoom while maintaining a slim profile.

    Alongside the main sensor and periscope lens sits an 8MP ultrawide lens, providing expansive perspectives for breathtaking landscapes or group shots. This combination of powerful hardware and innovative design allows you to capture stunning detail and versatility, whether you’re shooting sweeping vistas or intimate portraits, from near or far.

    The triple flash system works in concert with these lenses, ensuring vibrant and detailed images even in challenging lighting conditions. And for selfie enthusiasts, the 32MP autofocus front camera guarantees crisp and clear self-portraits.

    With its innovative camera system, the realme 14 Pro Series 5G empowers you to tell your story through stunning visuals. It’s an invitation to explore your creativity and capture the world in a whole new light.

    Stay tuned for more updates on the device’s capabilities!

    (With inputs from IANS)

  • XPG-ADATA partners with ACRO, KBC, and TAG to revolutionise storage solutions in India – CRN

    XPG-ADATA partners with ACRO, KBC, and TAG to revolutionise storage solutions in India – CRN

    ADATA Technology Co. Ltd. continues to set new benchmarks in the industry. Demonstrating its unwavering commitment to innovation and expanding customer outreach, XPG-ADATA proudly announces strategic partnerships with India’s leading national distributors—ACRO, KBC, and TAG.

    This collaboration marks a significant milestone in enhancing product availability and expanding XPG-ADATA’s footprint in the Indian market, ensuring seamless access to cutting-edge technology for businesses and consumers alike. 

    This partnership aligns with XPG-ADATA’s commitment to providing innovative solutions tailored to India’s growing digital needs. By collaborating with ACRO, KBC, and TAG, the company ensures its high-quality storage and memory products are available efficiently and effectively across the country.

    To further enhance customer satisfaction, XPG-ADATA will provide 100% warranty support for all products purchased through these official distributors. Warranty services will be facilitated through our service locations spread across PAN India, ensuring a seamless experience for customers requiring RMA support.

    Ravvi Dhyani, Country Manager, ADATA said, “We are thrilled to partner with national distributors for XPG-ADATA, ensuring a balanced and mutually beneficial collaboration. This strategic move strengthens our nationwide reach, accelerates growth, and enhances our ability to deliver cutting-edge solutions, reinforcing our commitment to India’s dynamic technology market.”

    Charles Wei, Sales Head, ADATA said, “I am delighted to announce our restructured strategy for the Indian market, supported by a new partnership model with three key distributors—ACRO, KBC, and TAG. Their strong networks and potential will enable us to grow in specific regions and rebuild our presence in India. This approach reflects our commitment to providing valuable support to our partners and driving mutual growth. With Team ADATA’s focus on delivering high-quality solutions, we are confident in expanding our footprint and strengthening our position in this dynamic market.”

  • Space economy to grow nearly 5 times to $44 billion in next decade: Minister

    Space economy to grow nearly 5 times to $44 billion in next decade: Minister

    IANS

    The Indian space economy is set to grow nearly 5 times from $8.4 billion to around $44 billion in the next decade, Union Minister of State for Science and Technology, Dr Jitendra Singh, has stressed.

    Investments in the sector reached Rs 1,000 crore in 2023 alone, placing India as a frontline player globally. India’s space sector has also emerged as a significant foreign exchange earner.

    Of the 220 million euros earned through launching foreign satellites, 187 million euros was generated in the last eight years. Countries benefiting from ISRO’s services include the US, France, Japan and others.

    Hailing ISRO’s Space Docking Experiment (SPADEX) mission, Dr Singh said that this achievement places India on par with global leaders in space docking technology.

    The SPADEX mission is a pivotal project by ISRO aimed at developing and demonstrating technologies for spacecraft rendezvous, docking, and undocking using two small satellites.

    Jitendra Singh

    IANS

    “These capabilities are critical for future missions, including satellite servicing, space station operations, and interplanetary exploration,” the minister told reporters in the national capital.

    The primary objectives of SPADEX, said the Minister, include Demonstrating technology for spacecraft rendezvous and docking, Showcasing controllability in docked conditions to extend the life of target spacecraft and Testing power transfer between docked satellites.

    The mission also includes post-docking activities, with spacecraft conducting independent payload operations.

    According to Dr Singh the docking is expected to occur on January 7, 2025, at noon.

    The minister also highlighted a significant collaboration between the Department of Biotechnology and ISRO to explore the application of biology in Space.

    “Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi‘s leadership, India will lead in ‘Space-Biology’ by studying physiological changes in space environments,” he stated.

    The 2023 New Space Policy allowed private sector participation in ISRO’s activities. This policy has led to a surge in space startups, growing from a single-digit count in 2021 to nearly 300 in 2023.

    Notable startups include AgniKul Cosmos, which established a private launchpad on ISRO premises, and Skyroot, which executed India’s first private sub-orbital launch.

    “These startups are reinforcing ISRO’s infrastructure and attracting global attention from companies like SpaceX,” Dr Singh remarked.

    (With inputs from IANS)