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Apple Diwali festive offer: Cashback, bundle deals, no-cost EMIs, and more: Technology news

Apple Diwali festive offer: Cashback, bundle deals, no-cost EMIs, and more: Technology news

by | Oct 3, 2024 | Technology


iPhone 15 with Beats Solo Buds Festive Special Edition

3 min read Last Updated : Oct 03 2024 | 11:17 AM IST


Apple has announced its Diwali festive offers, including deals on iPhones, Macs, iPads, and other ecosystem products. As part of this festive sale, Apple is bundling Beats Solo Buds in the Festive Special Edition colourway at no extra cost with purchases of the iPhone 15 or iPhone 15 Plus. The company is also offering no-interest equated monthly instalment (EMI) plans and bank cashback options across several products.


iPhones

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Apple is offering the Beats Solo Buds Festive Special Edition for free with purchases of the iPhone 15 or iPhone 15 Plus until October 4. This offer is valid on Apple’s online store and at retail stores in Saket, Delhi, and BKC, Mumbai. Additionally, Apple is providing cashback offers on eligible cards from American Express, Axis Bank, and ICICI Bank, as well as no-cost EMI options for up to 12 months.

 


Bank cashback on iPhones


  • iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max – Rs 5000


  • iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus – Rs 5000


  • iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Plus – Rs 3000


  • iPhone SE – Rs 2000


Macs


Similar to the iPhone offers, Apple is offering bank cashback of up to Rs 10000 on Mac devices when purchased with eligible American Express, Axis Bank, or ICICI Bank cards. No-cost EMI plans of up to 12 months are also available.


Bank cashback on Macs


  • MacBook Air (M3 chip) 13-inch and 15-inch – Rs 10000


  • MacBook Air (M2 chip) 13-inch – Rs 8000


  • MacBook Pro 14-inch and 16-inch – Rs 10000


  • Mac Studio – Rs 10000


  • iMac 24-inch – Rs 10000


  • Mac mini – Rs 4000


iPads


Apple is offering bank cashback of up to Rs 6000 on select iPad models with eligible cards from American Express, Axis Bank, and ICICI Bank. No-cost EMI plans of up to 12 months are also available.


Bank cashback on iPads


  • iPad Pro 11-inch and 13-inch – Rs 6000


  • iPad Air 11-inch and 13-inch – Rs 4000


  • iPad – Rs 2500


  • iPad mini – Rs 3000


Apple Watch


Customers can enjoy bank cashback of up to Rs 6000 on Apple Watch models, along with no-cost EMI options for up to 12 months.


Bank cashback on Apple Watch


  • Apple Watch Ultra 2 – Rs 6000


  • Apple Watch Series 10 – Rs 4000


  • Apple Watch SE 2 – Rs 2000


AirPods


Apple AirPods are available with up to Rs 2000 cashback on eligible cards, along with no-cost EMI plans of up to six months.


Bank cashback on AirPods


  • AirPods Pro – Rs 2000


  • AirPods 4 – Rs 1500


  • AirPods 4 Active Noise Cancellation – Rs 1500


  • AirPods Max – Rs 4000


Others


Apple is offering bank cashback of up to Rs 2000 on HomePod and Rs 2500 on Beats audio products, with no-interest EMI plans of up to six months available for both.

First Published: Oct 03 2024 | 11:17 AM IST



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Google opens Gemini Nano for developers to explore AI-enhanced apps: Report: Technology news

Google opens Gemini Nano for developers to explore AI-enhanced apps: Report: Technology news

by | Oct 3, 2024 | Technology


2 min read Last Updated : Oct 03 2024 | 11:12 AM IST


Google has made its Gemini Nano model available on Android devices through experimental access, allowing app developers to integrate AI-enhanced features into their applications. Android developers can now explore Gemini Nano using the AI Edge SDK via AI Core, which was previously available only through a limited early access preview. This experimental access is currently restricted to the Pixel 9 series, with support for more devices expected in the coming days, broadening the reach of AI-integrated applications.


At present, Google is allowing developers to experiment exclusively with text-to-text prompts, with support for additional modalities such as images anticipated soon. The capabilities of Gemini Nano enable developers to implement features like rephrasing, smart replies, proofreading, and summarisation within their apps.

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Additionally, developers have the flexibility to customise how Gemini Nano functions in their applications, using the AI Edge SDK to manage AI-driven information processing. This customisation allows developers to tailor Gemini Nano’s responses to meet the specific requirements of their apps, enhancing user experience. This move by Google appears to be aimed at making its advanced AI technology more accessible, encouraging the development of valuable, user-centric features.


What is Gemini Nano


Google’s Gemini Nano is an AI model designed to operate directly on a user’s device, enabling tasks like text summarisation and image description without requiring an internet connection. This localised processing enhances data privacy by ensuring that all tasks are performed on the device itself. Gemini Nano powers AI-driven features in applications such as Pixel Recorder and Google Messages, and is supported by Google Pixel 9 and Samsung Galaxy S24 devices.


Google updates Gemini app for Android


Gemini’s Android app has also simplified the process of adding images, introducing a new feature that allows users to share images directly from other apps. Previously, users had to manually open the Gemini app, locate and attach images from the gallery, and then input a text prompt. However, with the latest update (version 1.0.668480831), users can now share images directly from apps like Google Photos to Gemini via Android’s share sheet. While this functionality is currently limited to images, with links and text sharing unsupported, it represents a significant step towards greater convenience for users.

First Published: Oct 03 2024 | 11:12 AM IST



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EU demands information from YouTube, Snapchat, TikTok on content algorithms

EU demands information from YouTube, Snapchat, TikTok on content algorithms

by | Oct 2, 2024 | Technology


1 min read Last Updated : Oct 02 2024 | 11:07 PM IST


The EU Commission requested information on Wednesday from YouTube, Snapchat and TikTok on the parameters used by their algorithms to recommend content to users and their role in amplifying some systemic risks, including those related to the electoral process, mental health and protection of minors.


The requests, made under the Digital Services Act (DSA), “also concern the platforms’ measures to mitigate the potential influence of their recommender systems on the spread of illegal content, such as promoting illegal drugs and hate speech,” the EU Commission said in a statement.

 

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The commission said it had requested additional information from TikTok about measures the firm had adopted to keep bad actors from manipulating the application and to reduce risks related to elections and civic discourse.

 

 


The tech firms must provide the requested information by November 15, the EU said, after which the commission will decide on next steps, which could include fines.

 


The EU has previously opened non-compliance proceedings under the DSA, which requires Big Tech companies to do more to tackle illegal and harmful content on their platforms, related to the recommendations offered by Meta’s Facebook and Instagram, AliExpress and TikTok.

First Published: Oct 02 2024 | 11:07 PM IST



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OpenAI closes funding round raising over .5 bn, valuation now at 0 bn

OpenAI closes funding round raising over $6.5 bn, valuation now at $150 bn

by | Oct 2, 2024 | Technology


2 min read Last Updated : Oct 02 2024 | 10:12 PM IST


By Shirin Ghaffary and Rachel Metz


OpenAI has completed a deal to raise over $6.5 billion in new funding, giving the artificial intelligence company a more than $150 billion valuation, and bolstering its efforts to build the world’s leading generative AI technology.

  

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The deal is one of the largest-ever private investments, and makes OpenAI one of the three largest venture-backed startups, alongside Elon Musk’s SpaceX and TikTok owner ByteDance Ltd., according to people familiar with the matter who asked not to be identified discussing private information. The size of the investment underscores the tech industry’s belief in the power of AI, and its appetite for the extremely costly research powering its advancement. 

 


The funding round was led by Thrive Capital, the venture capital firm headed up by Josh Kushner, Bloomberg previously reported, along with other global investors. 


The massive funding round follows a turbulent year for OpenAI. Last November, the company’s board fired and then quickly rehired its Chief Executive Officer Sam Altman. In the following months, the company has remade its board, hired hundreds of new employees and lost several key leaders, including Sutskever and Chief Technology Officer Mira Murati. 


© 2024 Bloomberg L.P.

First Published: Oct 02 2024 | 10:12 PM IST



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Tech wrap Oct 2: Microsoft Copilot AI, iPhone SE, WhatsApp, Windows 11 24H2

Tech wrap Oct 2: Microsoft Copilot AI, iPhone SE, WhatsApp, Windows 11 24H2

by | Oct 2, 2024 | Technology


4 min read Last Updated : Oct 02 2024 | 8:03 PM IST


Microsoft has introduced a variety of new features for its Copilot AI, including a Copilot Voice akin to Gemini Live, as well as improved integration with the Edge web browser. The company also launched experimental capabilities that allow the chatbot to understand on-screen content for enhanced contextual awareness and to improve its reasoning for handling more complex queries.

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Microsoft has announced exclusive AI features for the Copilot Plus PC platform, specifically designed for Windows on ARM. New AI-driven functionalities include tools for image enhancement and generation in Paint and Photos, an upgraded Windows Search, and a new “Click to Do” feature. Furthermore, the company has revealed that the previously introduced Recall feature is being launched with enhanced security layers for select Copilot Plus PC users.

 


After the recent launch of its iPhone 16 series, Apple is reportedly focusing on a more budget-friendly iPhone SE model. A report from Bloomberg suggests that Apple aims to unveil the next-generation iPhone SE early next year, along with refreshed iPads.


Meta-owned WhatsApp has announced the rollout of new camera filters and backgrounds for video calls. Users can now customise their video call experience by altering their background or applying a filter.


Microsoft has commenced the rollout of the Windows 11 version 24H2 update for users. This latest update introduces several new features, including Energy Saver mode, Bluetooth LE Audio support for hearing aids, HDR background support, and more. It also includes various redesigns and changes to the taskbar, system tray, File Explorer, and other areas of the operating system.


Lenovo-owned Motorola has launched the ThinkPhone 25, which shares a design reminiscent of the Edge 50 Neo. This marks the second release under the ThinkPhone branding. The smartphone offers military-grade durability, featuring MIL-STD 810H certification and an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance. It comes with a plastic frame and a back made from Aramid fibre.


Samsung is reportedly preparing to launch a “Special Edition” model of its Galaxy Z Fold 6 in select regions. According to a report from Android Authority, a promotional poster for the “Galaxy Z Fold 6 Special Edition” has been shared on X (formerly Twitter), indicating that pre-orders may begin in South Korea next month.


YouTube offers a background play feature for Premium subscribers, allowing users to continue listening to a video even after leaving the app or locking their device. However, this feature has not been available on YouTube TV or Google’s live TV service. It is expected that the feature will soon be accessible in the YouTube TV app.


Following the launch of the iPhone 16 series in September, Apple is reportedly preparing for another event this month, likely to showcase updates to its Mac lineup. Media reports indicate that Apple will unveil new MacBook Pro models powered by the M4 chip, a redesigned Mac mini, and a new iMac. Additionally, the company may introduce the next generation of the standard iPad and a new iPad mini model.


Designed for adventurers and athletes, the Galaxy Watch Ultra offers robust durability, advanced health tracking, and exceptional battery life, although it comes with certain limitations.


If you’re in search of a smartphone with a performance-oriented processor, the Vivo T3 Ultra could be a suitable option. However, you may want to consider alternatives for a better camera and software experience.


Following the launch of the iPhone 16, Apple Inc. is preparing to introduce a new budget-friendly phone early next year, alongside updated iPads.

First Published: Oct 02 2024 | 8:03 PM IST



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Asus powers up, AI-powered PCs to drive 5-10% of shipments by November

Asus powers up, AI-powered PCs to drive 5-10% of shipments by November

by | Oct 2, 2024 | Technology


Arnold Su, vice president – consumer and gaming PC, system business group, Asus India

3 min read Last Updated : Oct 02 2024 | 9:29 PM IST


Taiwanese personal computer (PC) maker Asus has announced an ambitious plan for artificial intelligence (AI)-powered PCs to make up 5-10 per cent of its total shipments by the end of 2024. However, with demand surging, the company now expects to reach this target ahead of schedule, aiming for November instead.


The company expects the ongoing festival season to boost sales by 5-10 per cent compared to the previous year, driven by a new refresh cycle, a senior executive at the firm said.

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“During the pandemic, many consumers were forced to buy PCs. This resulted in a slight decline in PC sales in 2022 and 2023. In 2024, however, a new purchase cycle has begun, with customers now looking to upgrade their devices,” Arnold Su, vice-president — consumer and gaming PC, system business group, Asus India, told Business Standard.

 


Su added that this is also the first year for AI PCs, so many consumers are seeking to upgrade to more powerful devices.


“Next year, AI PCs will be the main driver of growth for the overall business,” Su said.


India’s PC market, which includes desktops, notebooks, and workstations, grew 7.1 per cent year-on-year (Y-o-Y) to 3.39 million shipments in the second quarter (Q2) of calendar year 2024, according to data from the International Data Corporation (IDC).


Asus holds the fifth spot in the Indian PC segment, with a market share of 7.1 per cent during Q2 this year, down slightly from 7.1 per cent in the same period last year, according to IDC.


The Taipei-headquartered firm is not a contender in the commercial PC market but witnessed a 131.7 per cent Y-o-Y growth in this segment in Q2.


Asus became the second-largest player in the consumer segment behind HP in 2023.


“In the second half of 2024, we will be a strong no. 2 (consumer) brand in India, and we are preparing to challenge the no. 1 position in the next two years. By the end of 2024, we aim to cross the 20 per cent market share benchmark, up from 18 per cent last year,” Su said.


According to Su, Asus aims to capture 25-30 per cent market share in the consumer PC market within the next two years. To achieve this, the company is doubling down on expanding its offline retail footprint.


“Currently, India’s PC penetration rate is just 11 per cent. We want to target the remaining 89 per cent of households, rather than competing within the existing 11 per cent… By the end of 2025, our end goal is to be able to service 600 districts across India,” said Su.


As much as 70 per cent of the company’s sales currently come from offline channels. The PC maker will open its 300th Asus exclusive store on Thursday. In addition, the company operates around 1,500 ‘shop-in-shops’ — retail outlets that sell Asus PCs.


Asus has also partnered another 2,500 small dealers who sell the company’s products. In total, there are more than 4,000 shops in India selling Asus products.


“The Indian market is not just for entry-level products. It is also for the latest technology and our premium offerings. Catering to this demand will further help us increase our market share,” Su added.

First Published: Oct 02 2024 | 7:27 PM IST



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