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Uber, WhatsApp announce partnership to launch ride-booking via WhatsApp in India

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Uber and WhatsApp announced a partnership today in India, allowing people to book an Uber ride via Uber’s official WhatsApp chatbot. The integration is a global-first for Uber and it will make booking an Uber ride as easy as sending a WhatsApp message.

Built on WhatsApp Business Platform, the partnership will expand access to Uber’s mobility services in one of the company’s largest international markets. It is being rolled out on a pilot basis in the northern city of Lucknow first, and will be expanded to other Indian cities soon.

Nandini Maheshwari, Sr. Director, Business Development, Uber APAC said, “We want to make it as easy as possible for all Indians to take an Uber trip, and to do that we need to meet them on platforms they are comfortable with. Our partnership with WhatsApp does just that, giving riders a new way to get a ride through a simple, familiar and trusted channel. We are thrilled at this global-first integration for Uber, and look forward to rolling it out across India.”

Abhijit Bose, Head of WhatsApp India said, “The WhatsApp Business Platform has been an important lever for businesses that want to build a direct connect with their consumers. The Uber experience on WhatsApp is simple, familiar, and relatable for users and has the potential to accelerate adoption of Uber with a new category of riders in India. We are excited about the potential of this partnership and look forward to creating more such customised solutions for products and services across sectors in India.”

With this integration riders will no longer need to download or use the Uber app. Everything from user registration, booking a ride, and getting a trip receipt will be managed within the WhatsApp chat interface.

WhatsApp users can book an Uber ride through three simple ways: messaging to Uber’s business account number; scanning a QR code; or clicking a link directly to open an Uber WhatsApp chat. They will then be asked to provide pickup and drop off locations. Users will receive upfront fare information and the driver’s expected time of arrival.

Also Read | New WhatsApp Desktop App: Know what’s new, how to download

Riders get the same safety features and insurance protections as those who book trips via the Uber app directly. They will be informed of the name of the driver and license plate of the driver on booking; be able to track the location of the driver en route to the pickup point and be able to speak to the driver anonymously using a masked number.

The WhatsApp chat flow will inform the rider about safety guidelines, including how to reach Uber in case of emergencies (type help on-trip). If the user selects the “emergency” option while on the trip, they will receive an inbound call from Uber’s customer support team. Uber riders will also have access to its safety line number to call, if needed, until 30 mins after the trip ends.

Drivers on Uber’s platform, however, will see no change in their experience with rides booked via WhatsApp.

Currently, this option to book a ride via WhatsApp will only be available in English language but it will be expanded to other Indian languages soon. Additionally, the service is available to both new and existing users who registered with only a phone number on Uber.

How to book an Uber ride via WhatsApp:

  • Messaging the number directly
  • Using a link to get to the chat window
  • Scanning a QR code to get to the chat window.

Link to the Uber Newsroom Post.

Also Read: Over 1 million lessons taken by kids on ‘Yellow Class’ every month

Over 1 million lessons taken by kids on ‘Yellow Class’ every month

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As the Internet and education combine to provide people with the opportunity to gain new skills, Edtech platform Yellow Class announced that it has seen tremendous growth in adoption on the platform.

Currently, more than a million lessons are taken by kids every single month on Yellow Class. The virality of the product is huge and numbers are expected to rise further in line with the 40% MoM growth currently being witnessed by the platform. It is betting on building a product & ecosystem that kids & parents love, rather than on large sales teams pushing ‘learning’.

Yellow Class serves a wide range of co-curricular and extra-curricular interactive classes & content like art, craft, dance, Yoga, logical reasoning, GK, Phonics, and many more such categories. Kids between 2-13 years are finding a safe and fun space through the app. More than 100k posts are received every month. These are the submissions kids do after taking lessons. The point to note is these are not mandatory submissions. Kids engage with other kids and an ecosystem of boosting and appreciating others is being promoted. Yellow Class is a platform that offers free classes to kids. They can explore all the classes they want to try their hands on. A few users take over 5 hrs of class in a single day!

Anshul Gupta, Founder & CEO, said, “Life is supposed to be fun, especially when you are young. The fundamental flaw with how most Edtech companies approach kids is they want to shove “learning” down kids’ throats, irrespective of whether they enjoy it or not. The ever-increasing Customer Acquisition Cost (CAC) is proof that this is failing. We focus on voluntary exploration, which is fun. Let kids explore, learning is a natural outcome of it. Exploration is the basis of any learning, without the monotony of regular formal learning. Yellow Class is a platform offering opportunities for the same. We did a campaign to Let Kids Be and we truly believe that. Instead of weighing them down with our expectations, maybe we should let them fly free. We need to stop making comparisons and creating unhealthy competition among kids. There is a lot kids can learn together.”

Arpit Mittal, Founder and CTO, further added, “Our results speak for themselves as to what happens when kids are allowed to explore. Today more than a million lessons are taken by kids every month at Yellow Class, more than all other “learning platforms” put together. And kids are attending them voluntarily. The platform is free, kids come again and again of their own accord without the need of and pressure from their parents. It’s wonderful to see how they have their own Yellow Class Wall in their rooms where they have curated all that they have enjoyed and learnt with Yellow Class.”

As per multiple studies, kids currently spend 100 hrs per month on screen – primarily on YouTube. Yellow Class believes they can offer a more positive, safe & interactive alternative and win 25% of this digital time spend.

Furthermore, it had raised $6 million in a Series A funding round led by Elevation Capital and existing investors India Quotient, Titan Capital & First Cheque. They are also backed by Angels such as Vidit Aatrey, Cofounder of Meesho, Alok Mittal of Indifi and Dhruv Agarwala of PropTiger.

Also Read: Krafton kickstarts iQOO Battlegrounds Mobile India Series 2021

Krafton kickstarts iQOO Battlegrounds Mobile India Series 2021

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South Korean video game company Krafton, Inc. today announced the commencement of the first edition of iQOO Battlegrounds Mobile India Series (BGIS) 2021 with a special invitation, The Grind.

BGIS 2021 is a one of its kind tournament in India which provides the biggest yet platform for the gaming enthusiasts to demonstrate their skills. The League stage ‘Grind Week,’ will take place from December 2 to December 10, 2021 with the final showdown taking place on December 11 and 12, 2021.

The iQOO Battlegrounds Mobile India Series, available to residents of India only, received an overwhelming response, with a total registration of 664,211 players including 101,571 4-member squads. This is the first esports tournament hosted by Krafton following the incredible response by fans to the official launch of Battlegrounds Mobile India earlier in the year. The tournament will be streamed live on Battlegrounds Mobile India official channel, Battlegrounds Mobile India esports channel and iQOO esports official YouTube channel.

The tournament will witness 32 teams divided into four groups battling to qualify for the crown. The Grind will determine which of the 32 invited teams, as well as the players that advanced via the In-Game Qualifiers, will compete in the main event. The tournament is scheduled in a “Round Robin” format, which gives every team a chance to play the other teams in their group once in the league stage. The 16 qualifying teams will again play a series of 10 matches, and the team at the top of the leaderboard will be crowned the BGIS 2021 The Grind champion.

The Grind

Aneesh Aravind, Head of Publishing, India at Krafton, Inc., said, “We are excited to kickstart iQOO Battlegrounds Mobile India Series 2021 as our first esports tournament. Our players love showcasing their gaming skills at the highest level and this is our endeavor to help them do that. We have received a massive response from players with over 660k registrations for the tournament, and this is a testament to the need for bringing innovative and stimulating gaming events for our fans. We will continue strengthening the BGMI Esports ecosystem and providing a platform for gaming talent to flourish.”

Also Read | BGMI wins ‘Best Game’ at Google Play Best of 2021 Awards

Krafton has announced a prize pool of INR 1,00,00,000 for this inaugural series, with the winner taking home the lion’s portion of INR 50 lakh. The prize money for the second and third places will be INR 25 lakh and INR 10 lakh, respectively. Looking to provide the biggest platform for competitive gaming in the country, Battlegrounds Mobile India Series 2021 is open to residents of India only.

With this tournament, Krafton assures that Indian gamers will be in for some exciting times ahead, as it marks the start of a series of new content, collaborations, and esports tournaments that the firm will bring to the country. BGMI players will also be representing India in the Asian Games next year in a medalled event. From September 10 to September 25, 2022, competitors will play on a special BGMI Asian Games Version for their chance at a gold medal.

Krafton, Inc. is committed towards promoting responsible gaming. In line with this commitment, the company recently launched the ‘Game Responsibly’ campaign. Starting with a series of films, the campaign encourages gamers to take a pledge of taking care of themselves and their squad mates’ mental health as they take on the Battlegrounds. The campaign promotes safer and responsible gaming habits and builds awareness amongst players to cultivate safer and healthy gaming habits.

Also Read: Hipi signs Shakira Rupali Jagga to host its nationwide virtual talent hunt ‘Hipi G.O.A.T.’

Hipi signs Shakira Rupali Jagga to host its nationwide virtual talent hunt ‘Hipi G.O.A.T.’

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Short video platform Hipi has signed Rupali Jagga to host the country’s first mobile short-form video talent hunt Hipi G.O.A.T.

Rupali Jagga is an absolute delight on the stage and has starred in multiple national and international singing reality shows. She got crowned as ‘India ki Shakira’ as a participant of Zee SaReGaMaPa. Not just that, she has been an integral part of the winning team for Indian Pro Music League. Her young and prolific singing career has attracted numerous accolades, which would inspire contestants to scale up their limits. With her magical voice Rupali has converged an overwhelming 1.3Mn followers on her Instagram handle.

Hipi G.O.A.T. is an 8-week digital hunt will give the participants a unique opportunity to fulfill their dreams. Every week the best performer will sing a duet with Rupali Jagga and also get a one-on-one mentoring session with her.

Charmie Kanabar – Marketing Director, Hipi, said, “Hipi G.O.A.T is one of our ways to stage a uniform ground for budding talented singers by leveraging modern consumer technology. We needed a young and enthusiastic anchor for our 8-week contest. Rupali Jagga’s impeccable singing record and her cheerful personality is a great combination and hence a perfect fit for this virtual singing talent hunt.”

Also Read | Hipi introduces its latest avatar offering world’s first AI based in-video discovery feature

Rupali Jagga said, “Music has always connected people through centuries.I am delighted to be the host and a mentor of this digital-first event and look forward to to bringing out the fresh singing talent in the country via Hipi G.O.AT.”

The first round of the contest – ‘Best foot forward’ began on November 29, 2021 and has received tremendous response. Hipi G.O.A.T. will continue to push the boundaries of singers in the upcoming weeks in three unique and exciting rounds- best foot forward, what’s your theme, and the final cut. The weekly winners will get a mentoring session and perform a duet with one and only Rupali Jagga. Also weekly cash rewards will be declared for the top performer.

Also Read: Lava Agni 5G vs Realme 8s 5G: Can the Indian phone stand tall against its Chinese rival?

Lava Agni 5G vs Realme 8s 5G: Can the Indian phone stand tall against its Chinese rival?

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Indian brand Lava has made a comeback with the launch of its first 5G Phone in India – Lava Agni 5G. The handset unveiled under Rs 20k segment. Considering this range, the Lava Agni 5G will have a direct face-off with Chinese devices like the Oppo A74 5G, Vivo Y72 5G and the Realme 8s 5G. If you are confused about which smartphone to pick, we are here to compare the Lava Agni 5G with the Realme 8s 5G to see which model offers more value for money deal.

Lava Agni 5G vs Realme 8s 5G – Design

Both the smartphones look good. The Lava Agni 5G appears to have a plastic unibody design and it’s a bit bulky (weighs around 204g). It comes in only a single Fiery Blue color variant. While the Realme 8s 5G looks nearly identical to the Realme 8 5G. It has a glittery rear panel and is also light-weight. Additionally, it comes in two color options – Universe Blue, Universe Purple. On both the devices, there’s a side-mounted fingerprint scanner for authentication.

Lava Agni 5G vs Realme 8s 5G Display

Both smartphones – Lava Agni 5G and Realme 8s 5G has IPS LCD displays with a refresh rate of 90Hz. However, Lava Agni 5G’s display is protected by Gorilla glass and has a bigger 6.78-inch display when compared to the Realme 8s 5G, which has a 6.5-inch panel.

Lava Agni 5G vs Realme 8s 5G – Cameras

The Lava Agni 5G comes with a quad rear camera setup that consists of a 64-megapixel primary camera, a 5-megapixel wide-angle camera, a 2-megapixel depth camera and a 2-megapixel macro lens. On the contrary, the Realme 8s 5G has a triple rear camera system that includes a 64-megapixel primary camera, a 2-megapixel macro lens and a 2-megapixel depth sensor. Both the smartphones are equipped with a 16-megapixel selfie cameras.

Processor

Lava Agni 5G and Realme 8s 5G are powered by the MediaTek Dimesity 810 chipset also brings in support for 5G connectivity. It is an octa-core chipset clocked at 2.4GHz and coupled with Mali-G57 MC2 GPU. If we talk about the RAM and storage, the Lava Agni 5G has an 8GB RAM model while the Realme 8s 5G has two 6GB and 8GB RAM models. The storage on both these models is limited to 128GB. However, on the Lava Agni 5G, it can be expanded up to 256GB and up to 1TB on the Realme 8S 5G. On the software front, both devices run Android 11 OS.

Lava Agni 5G vs Realme 8s 5G – Battery

For battery, the two smartphones are powered by 5,000mAh battery unit. However, the Lava Agni 5G supports 30W charging while the Realme 8s 5G comes with 33W charging technology.

Lava Agni 5G vs Realme 8s 5G Price

The Lava Agni 5G comes in only a single variant with 8GB RAM and 128GB storage, priced at Rs 19,999. On the other hand, the Realme 8s starts at Rs 17,999 for the base 6GB RAM + 128GB storage variant, while the high-end 8GB RAM + 128GB model retails for Rs 19,999.

Take Away

People usually look for a big display, powerful chip and camera features while buying a smartphone. Both the smartphones – Lava Agni 5G and Realme 8s 5G – ships with the same processor. The Realme 8s 5G comes in two different RAM variants and two color options, so the users have more choices here. However, you get large display and better camera features on the Lava Agni 5G. So, considering the Indian brand won’t disappoint you.

Also Read: Nokia C20 Plus vs Realme C21Y: Battle of smartphones under 10K

Tech NewsWrap: Honor 60, Honor 60 Pro launched… and more

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Honor 60, Honor 60 Pro launched

Honor unveiled the Honor 60 series in China on November 30, 2021. The series comprises two smartphones — the Honor 60 and more powerful Honor 60 Pro. The devices will support Google Mobile Services aka Google Play Store and Google apps outside of China should Honor launch them globally. They have an OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, Android 11 OS with MagicUI 5.0, 4,800mAh battery with 66W fast-charging support, and Snapdragon 778G/ 778G+ chipset.

Qualcomm, Google to develop a better AI experience

Qualcomm and Google have partnered to enhance AI capabilities in devices that are powered by the new Qualcomm and Snapdragon chipsets. The companies are working together to provide more accurate feedback from the AI. As part of the partnership, Google and Qualcomm plan to accelerate the development and differentiation of neural networks for Snapdragon, ACPC and XR mobile platforms, Snapdragon Ride Platform and Qualcomm Technologies’ IoT platforms.

Apple MacBook Pro users facing charging issues

Apple recently refreshed its MacBook Pro series with new 14 and 16-inch MacBook Pro with M1 Pro/ M1 Max processors. The tech giant also reintroduced old features like SD card reader and MagSafe charger on the refreshed laptop models. However, new owners are facing a growing list of small problems. Some new MacBook Pro 16 users are now reporting charging issues. Another set of users are seemingly facing problems while connecting the old-gen MacBook to an external monitor.

Android TV 12 is officially out

Android TV 12 has been finally released. As per the reports, the stable version of Android TV 12 is now available only on Google’s ADT-3 developer devices as it comes in a beta version. Early in 2022, the public will be able to use Chromecast with Google TV and other Android TV devices. It brings a redesigned UI with support for 4K UI rendering, dynamic refresh rate switching, background blurs, improved support for HDR formats and surround sound formats.

Also Read: Ambrane launches Dots Tune earbuds at Rs 2,199

Ambrane launches Dots Tune earbuds at Rs 2,199

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Mobile accessories brand Ambrane brings a new addition to its TWS earbuds portfolio with the launch of Dots Tune earbuds in India.

The Dots Tune TWS promises a never-ending sound experience for up to 29 hours, supported by voice command compatibility and ultra in-ear comfort when in use. The product in shades of White, Black and pink, comes with 365 days warranty and is available with Amazon, Flipkart and Tata Cliq.

Dots Tune TWS provides hassle-free entertainment up to 29 hours of total playback, including the power stored in its charging case. The pair lasts for up to 6.5 hours with just a single charge. The earbuds are powered by 10mm speaker drivers that seamlessly bring high bass and an authentic sound experience. The earbuds come with voice assistance activation for both Google Assistant and Siri, giving the users the freedom of command.

Also Read | Ambrane announces ‘Dots Slay TWS’ with extended battery life for Rs 2,199

Promising a superior in-ear comfort fit, the earbuds are designed to stay put in the ears, comfortably all day long. Housed in a compact case, the earbuds have a half in-ear design with silicone tips for a secure fit. For calls, there are dual microphones on each earbud. Dots Tune TWS is engineered with Bluetooth V5.1, which offers seamless connectivity without worrying about the high battery consumption. The latest Bluetooth technology gives stability, supporting amazing sound quality. The earbuds provide instant pairing with a working distance of up to 10m.

Dots Tune TWS

The Ambrane Dots Tune true wireless earbuds have a multi-functional touch sensor for effortless accessibility to calls and music. Being IPX4 sweat & water resistant, the earbuds are the perfect gym buddy for all the fitness zealots.

Sachin Railhan, Director – Ambrane India, said, “We are glad to extend our TWS portfolio with products that define the style and needs of the millennial generation. The compact TWS earbuds are everything one needs to balance their on-the-go lifestyle.”

The TWS Dots Tune are proudly Made in India. Ambrane is continuing its Make-in-India legacy by manufacturing products in India.

Also Read: U&i launches ‘Balloon Series’ wireless speaker with 6 hours backup

U&i launches ‘Balloon Series’ wireless speaker with 6 hours backup

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Gadgets and accessory maker U&i launches ‘Balloon Series’ wireless speaker with a karaoke mic.

With astounding sound quality and portability, this Bluetooth speaker is a perfect companion for all your parties and functions. Being India’s most progressive Consumer Electronics brand, U&i has been setting a benchmark with its varied product range.

With Bluetooth 5.0 technology, U&i Balloon Series offers a host of multiple connectivity options such as – USB Drive, 3.5mm Aux-In, Optical Input Port and HDMI. Moreover, it comes with a rechargeable 2,400mAh lithium-ion battery that gives a backup of more than 7 hours on a single charge. The speaker gets fully charged within 2-3 hours with the power supply of 5V, and its 20-watt output makes it an ideal choice for a small party or any other house party.

With a wireless range of up to 10m, the speaker ensures that music reaches every nook and corner of your room. The speaker is compatible with all your iOS, Android & Windows devices, making it easier to binge your favourite movies on the laptop or mobile without bothering others around.

Also Read | U&i launches ‘Shuffle 4’ smart neckband with 15-hour battery life

This barrel-shaped speaker is as small as 4X2 inches which can be easily carried on the go making it a must-have travel accessory. For music lovers, this speaker could be a perfect partner whether it’s a picnic or a backyard party with friends.

The U&i Balloon Series offers every possible feature desired from an ideal Bluetooth speaker be it good sound, attractive design or a reasonable price.

Price and availability:

The U&i Balloon Series wireless speaker is available at a price point of INR 2,799 from leading retail stores and is backed with a 12-month warranty.

Also Read: Michelin Cup comes to India

Michelin Cup comes to India

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Michelin, a leader in sustainable mobility, today announced the launch of Michelin Cup for e-gamers in India. Designed in partnership with PlayStation’s world-class and authentic driving game franchise Gran Turismo, the contest will run from November 29 to December 18, 2021. In 2019, PlayStation selected Michelin as “official tire technology partner” for its Gran Turismo franchise, the popular driving game.

Following the massive success of the first edition in 2021 in the MENA region, the latest edition of the Cup will see thousands of participants from the MENA region, India, and South Africa compete for a prize pool of USD 40,000 – the first prize is $20,000, the second is $15000, and the third is $5000. Registration for the transcontinental e-gaming event is now open.

Manish Pandey, Commercial Director, B2C Michelin India said, “After receiving an overwhelming response for our pilot edition in the MENA region, we decided to bring the experience to India. This game connects the most successful virtual driving experience in the world with the global leader for high-performance tyre. Michelin leads the industry in tire simulation and we hope gaming enthusiasts in India will enjoy the collaboration and help more gamers understand the critical role that Michelin play in optimizing vehicle performance.”

Registrations for the first week of races has opened on the November 29 and close on December 5, while registrations for the second week will begin on December 6 and close on December 12. All players will get to register for their region for the leaderboard-based tournament. Twelve finalists from across the three regions will race it out on one track during the grand finale on December 18 for the big prizes.

Participating countries include the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, South Africa, Algeria, Egypt, Morocco, and India.

This year’s Michelin Cup is capitalizing on the learning of the first pilot and is launched in collaboration with Power League Gaming, a top e-gaming specialist leading campaign strategy, production, and marketing.

As per the multi-year agreement with PlayStation in 2019, the game will feature Michelin-branded tires and introduce players to Michelin’s deep history in global motorsports, performance, and innovation.

Also Read: Users expect 5G to bring difference to smart devices experience: Report

Users expect 5G to bring difference to smart devices experience: Report

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In its latest study on smart devices in India, Techarc today said that the consumers are reinforcing their ‘smartisation’ process by purchasing individual personal use gadgets as well as devices for home / office automation.

While COVID-19 pandemic impact is considered as among key drivers behind this trend, the rapid growth of wired home broadband after aggressive fibre rollout of telecom operators has added as a key enabler. India had 23.13 million wired subscribers as of September 2021, registering a 15% increase over previous year.

Faisal Kawoosa, Founder & Chief Analyst, Techarc said, “The changing behaviour of consumers shifting towards a smart devices ecosystem from pointed smartphone is throwing open great opportunities for the entire ecosystem. As such smartphone OEMs have also adopted an ecosystem development strategy.”

“Processors continue to be key enablers in terms of main components which defines the features and functions of these smart devices. Among the chipset suppliers, MediaTek appears to be in a strong position with this shift in customer preferences,” added Faisal.

Also Read | Brands having strong consumer pull prone to higher reputation risk in digital arena: Report

Key highlights of the research

  • The shift towards buying smart devices for homes / offices has started in 2021. Earlier the focus was primarily on non-smartphone based personal smart gadgets like TWS, Smart Watches, etc.
  • The smart devices market is expected to growth at 5.8% by revenue in calendar year 2021. The total revenue generated by these connected devices is estimated to be Rs 312,689 crores.
  • Satisfaction with regards to smart devices is high across the product categories. However, since smartphones have seen several generations of manufacturing, they lead the overall satisfaction score with 87%.
  • Online channel is the preferred medium for over than 3/4ths of the consumers. Within online Amazon is the favourite marketplace to buy such devices.
  • While pricing is the topmost information that consumers look for before deciding about the smart devices, customers are increasingly getting interested in knowing more about the chipset as it defines the features and functions of such devices.
  • There is a definite wish list of consumers wanting to buy smart devices. They have different choices for different time periods over the next 2 years. However, there is an equal opportunity for all the smart devices.
  • Online technology news portals emerge as the most credible sources for information as users find them good in quality and in detail while learning about these devices.
  • Users are expecting 5G to enhance the experience of smart devices as well. Users feel 5G connectivity in smart devices will enable faster communication, powerful compute and processing as well as efficient usage of resources.
  • In the Smartphone Arena, both MediaTek and Qualcomm can be seen in close competition with each other. However, as users move towards smart devices ecosystem, they find MediaTek as their preferred chipset supplier.
  • The recent consumer centric campaigns have helped MediaTek to increase familiarity of its brand and products among end consumers. This positions the Taiwanese chipset maker at the top of chart with 85% of the respondents aware about MediaTek and its product portfolio.

Amit Sharma, Senior Analyst, Techarc said, “Though the trend of buying smart devices is skewed towards a certain socio-economic profile of users, the trend is catching up fast across the segments as industry continues to introduce more affordable solutions catering to the demand.”

Also Read: CareerLabs launches ELEV8 App, offering recruitment solutions for off-campus placements