Smartphone brand Vivo announced the findings of the third edition of the study titled ‘Impact of Smartphones on Human Relationships 2021’, focusing on the behavioral impact on children due to excessive use of mobile devices both by kids and their parents.

Conducted in association with Cybermedia Research (CMR), the study showcases the impact of smartphones on users and its effect on relationships. The third edition of Switch Off focusses on a unique angle of relationship dynamics especially in context to excessive use and all-pervasive presence of smartphones in our lives. The study sheds light on the various trends, patterns associated with smartphone usage and analyses the changing behavior of consumers.

Indeed, smartphones have become an essential tool in our day-to-day routine helping us connect with our friends and family in general. It became even more significant during Covid-19 and ensued lockdowns improving our overall quality of life and help us feel safe, secure and entertained at home. The study underlines that more than 80% of people agree that smartphones help boost their productivity and improve their quality of life. However, excessive usage of smartphones is triggering addiction among parents and that is hurting relationship with their kids.

The survey underlines that the average daily time spent on smartphones remains at alarming levels (in the post-Covid era) as there has been a 32% increase in the time spent on smartphones from the pre-Covid period. Interestingly, the survey also highlights that while the time that is spent with kids and family, in general, has gone up, the quality of time spent has deteriorated. 80% (four in every five) smartphone users are on their phones even they’re spending time with their kids, and a whopping 74% of Indian parents feel that their relationship with their kids may be hurt because of smartphones.

This has its ramifications on the psychological and cognitive development of children. 90% of parents confess that their children display signs of aggression due to their extended smartphone usage. The same number of parents feel that their children are sometimes lacking in acceptable moral and social behaviour.

Yogendra Sriramula, Director, Brand Strategy, Vivo India, said, “It is an undisputed fact that smartphones have become an integral part of our lives, helping us stay connected with work and social circles, giving us access to information and improving our productivity. However, their excessive use is impacting human relationships and behaviour. The Vivo study in 2019 and 2020 focused on the broad impact on relationships. In the 2021, Vivo CMR study, we wanted to ask the parents something their unconscious mind may already know – is their excessive use of smartphones hampering their relationship with their kids and impacting their psychological and cognitive development?”

“As a brand that wants to bring joy to people, this study is indeed a message to the parents that they should be mindful of their smartphone use, particularly while using them with their kids,” he said.

Some of the key findings of the study are as below:

Smartphones impact on human relationships – Obsession of smartphones is climbing the ladder, and decreasing attention spans are evident. While the time that we spend with our kids and family has gone up by 57% and 49% respectively, the quality of time spent has deteriorated.

• 66% confess to being on their smartphones while spending time with their kids.
• 74% of Indian parents feel that feel that their relationship with their kids maybe hurt because of smartphones.
• 75% admit to having been distracted by their smartphones and not being attentive to kids even while with them.
• 69% of people believe that they lose track of children, surroundings, and people when they are immersed in their smartphones, and 74% admit to getting irritated when their children ask them something.

Also Read | Vivo aims to offer Xceptional Service experience via Vivo X Care Program

Impact of parents’ excessive usage of smartphones on children’s behavior – Smartphones are impacting everyday interactions and it’s a noticeable impact on kids, where uninterrupted time and attention are leading to visible behavioral changes in children:

• 90% of parents confess that their children display some signs of aggression owing to their extended smartphone usage
• 85% of parents feel that their children find it difficult to mix with other kids in a social setting and the overall outdoor experience to be daunting.
• 90% of parents feel that their children are sometimes found to be lacking in acceptable moral and social behavior.

Impact of Covid-19 – Today, smartphones are integral to everyday function and in a pandemic impacted world, they are integral to our existence.

• Consumers claim to spend an average of 6.5 hours on their smartphone per day, a 32% increase from the pre-COVID era.

Smartphone Addiction – Literally, the smartphone is the place where we live. Our smartphones are our digital home. While more than 80% people think that smartphones help them stay connected with their loved ones and improve their quality of life but;

• 94% of people agree that the smartphone has become a part of their bodies and they cannot separate from them.

The overall dependency on phones has increased and there is no sacred space, people use their phones while eating food (70%), in the living room (72%), and even while sitting with family (75%).

Parents Desire – It’s imperative to #SwitchOff and connect in an old-school way:

95% of respondents accept that they would love to spend more uninterrupted time with their children.

Also Read: Karnataka chess takes a hit after ban on online-gaming including ‘game of skill’: KSCA

Karnataka state Chess Association today said that the recent ban on online gaming including “game of skill” implemented by the Government of Karnataka has adversely impacted the chess ecosystem in the state.

“The ban has hindered corporate sponsorships, especially from online skill gaming companies affected by the bill, and in turn has affected organizations like KSCA,” said D.P Ananth, President, Karnataka state Chess Association.

Chess is among the most popular sports in Karnataka with players across all parts of the state. Currently there are more than 6,000 registered players who have brought many laurels to the state in national and international tournaments. At this juncture, the ban in Karnataka on online gaming including the “game of skill” has adversely affected the corporate sponsorships and tournaments, which were helpful in many ways, have started drying up and it is clearly a setback for the ecosystem as the looming uncertainty due to the ban has hindered sponsorships.

“We would request the honourable State Government to make necessary amendments to the law and help games of skills like chess to flourish in the state and the country,” D.P Anantha, President, Karnataka State Chess Association said.

Also Read: Paytm Wealth Academy launched for traders and investors

Beyondlife.club, powered by GuardianLink.io, India’s first curated talent & athlete NFT exchange platform in association with Stan Lee’s POW! Entertainment, Graphic India, and Orange Comet announces the launch of its exclusive NFT collection ‘Chakra The Invincible’.

The NFT collection will be featuring the first ever Hollywood meets B-town (Bollywood) superhero co-created by the legendary comic book writer, editor, publisher, and producer Stan Lee & Sharad Devarajan.

A revolutionary figure across the entire superhero landscape, Stan Lee was the extraordinary mind behind legendary comics such the spider man, X Men, Fantastic Four, The Iron Man, Hulk, The Avengers etc. He was the one who laid the foundation of Marvel Universe. The NFT auction will officially go live from December 27 to 29, 2021 to celebrate the late legend’s 99th Birthday.

This auction will feature over 7,000 exclusive Chakra verse art pieces that will be officially auctioned via Beyondlife.club. First of its kind, the NFT auction will consist of 6865 unique generative artpunks, 15 Chakra Artpunks, 2 – 3D comic books based on the full origin story of Chakra The Invincible, 5 Chakra NFT comic books, 7 – 3D animation based NFTs showcasing Chakra’s superhuman abilities & 2 Video NFTs exhibiting iconic scenes that showcase Chakra’s signature moves and display of powers.

Also Read | Beyondlife.club introduces official Drop for Amitabh Bachchan NFT collection with ‘Loot Box’

The Invincible was the first superhero that Stan Lee created specifically for his Indian fans. With this first of its kind story base, Stan Lee strived to bring the mythological concept of Chakras to the world through the superhero genre.

Arun Pandey, MD & Chairman, Rhiti Group and Co-founder, Beyondlife.club said, “Stan Lee is one of the most famous names in the history of Comic World and entertainment industry. His works have not only inspired youngsters but has been a source of motivation for billions around the world. We are honoured to be a part of something as sensational as this because we realise that with this NFT launch we will be able to share something memorable with his fans across the globe.”

Keyur Patel, Co-Founder and Chairman of GuardianLink.io and BeyondLife.club said, “We are thrilled to be part of this collaboration to launch this exclusive global NFT drop based upon the characters co-created by the legendary Stan Lee.”

Also Read: We Founder Circle invests in 30 start-ups within first year of operation

Smartphone brand Tecno is back to doing what it does best – break the mould with segment first features that have enabled the company to consolidate its position among top 5 smartphone players in the 5-10k segment.

Launching yet another all-rounder smartphone under its most popular ‘Spark series’ portfolio, the all-new Spark 8T is priced at an aggressive Rs 8,999. Equipped with disruptive features such as a segment-first 50MP AI Dual Rear High-resolution camera, 6.6-inch FHD Display, Helio G35 Processor which is specially created for gaming, and a massive 5,000mAh battery. Spark 8T is designed to give an all-rounded entertainment experience to its Gen Z customers across India.

Smartphones in the Spark series are known for their superior camera, display, and overall smartphone experience in the affordable segment. The Tecno Spark 8T is a major upgrade of the Spark 7T, the introduction of this new smartphone will further elevate the entertainment quotient of Tecno smartphones. The all-new Spark 8T becomes the first in this segment to offer 50MP AI Dual Rear Camera with Quad Flash a premium camera design with Integrated FP sensor for HD Clear Photography with features like 1080P time lapse and 120fps slow motion for a professional photography experience. Along with that, Spark 8T flaunts a 6.6 FHD+ Display, with 5,000mAh battery and an 8MP selfie camera, all this packed in a premium attractive design in vibrant colors.

Arijeet Talapatra, CEO of Transsion India said, “At Tecno, we are constantly pushing the boundary to make cutting-edge mobile camera technology available to everyone at affordable prices. With the SPARK series, our strategy is to continue to focus on smartphones that disrupt the budget and mid-budget segments with industry-leading specifications at unmatched price points. The latest Spark 8T has been designed keeping in mind the need of the hour requirements of the Gen Z. We are confident with the all-new Spark 8T we will be successful in meeting the entertainment needs of the aspirational Bharat.”

Spark 8T will be available in four new colors namely Iris Purple, Atlantic blue, Turquoise Cyan and Cocoa Gold.

Key USP of Spark 8T:

Segment breaking 50MP High Resolution Camera

The rear camera of the Spark 8T is equipped with a segment-first 50MP AI Dual Rear Camera with F1.6 aperture which can click super clear shots even in low light. It features various professional photography and videography modes such as Video Bokeh, Smart Portrait, AI Beauty, AR Animoji and Stickers, Google Lens, Time-lapse, Slow Motion and many more.

Also Read | Tecno launches all-new Spark 8 with 16 MP AI dual-rear camera at Rs 10,999

6.6-inch FHD+ Perfect display

Spark 8T features a big 6.6-inch Full HD+ display which is quite handy. The 500 nits brightness resolution makes the screen vibrant and better for day light. The 91.3% screen to body ratio gives you a near bezel less experience.

Flaunt your style with new metal coding design

The perfect blend of the bold, appealing and energetic, sleek, youth centric design of the Spark 8T makes one feel like a fashion icon. The Integrated rear camera design and thinner side lines bring higher visual recognition and product value. The visually slim Spark 8T with cutting edge NCVM coloring process gives it a further unique and premium feel.

5,000mAh powerful battery with optimized ultra-power saving mode

Spark 8T offers a powerful 5,000mAh battery that gives an uninterrupted smartphone experience for a long duration on a single charge. Its optimized power saving modes give you a step ahead battery backup. This huge battery gives a whopping 38 days standby, 122 hours of music playback and 40 hours of calling time

Helio G35 gaming Processor for smooth experience

Spark 8T is equipped with 2.3Ghz octa core Helio G35 gaming processor which is ample for robust usage. Its hyperengine technology enhances users gaming experience and automatic super boost features ensures smooth and lag free operations for easy multi-tasking.

Enhanced audio experience with a DTS Sound SOPLAY 2.0

Spark 8T comes loaded with exciting audio features such as a DTS Sound SOPLAY 2.0 for music producer that supports voice recording, lyrics writing and one-click ringtone and the best part is that it doesn’t even require internet! All this with HiOS 7.6 based on Android 11, the latest android with localized features such as Vault 2.0, Smart Panel 2.0, Kids Mode, Social Turbo Dark theme, Parental control, Digital Wellbeing, Gesture Call Picker and many more making Spark 8T a perfect buy for the Gen Z in the sub 10k segment.

Also Read: 74% parents confess phone usage hurting relationship with kids: Vivo-SwitchOff Report

With an aim to delight consumers with an immersive sound experience, smartphone brand Vivo today expanded its allied devices range with the launch of Vivo Wireless Sport Lite neckband in India.

The Wireless Sport Lite accentuates user experience with superior and smart features to provide exceptional audio quality. Priced at INR 1,999, the neckband will be available across Vivo India e-store and across all partner retail stores starting today in two elegant colour variants — Black and Blue.

With a range of features to take the audio experiences to the next level, the ergonomically designed Sports Lite neckband comes with a feather light weight and auditory capabilities which elevates the listening experience allowing users to enjoy music on the move. This new neckband features 11.2mm driver strong bass and 18 hours of playback time ensuring a perfect acoustic balance for a seamless sound experience.

Vivo Spokesperson said, “At Vivo, we are committed to deliver superior experiences that surpass the ever-growing demands of our consumers. After witnessing the success of TWS Neo earphones last year, we are pleased to announce the launch of new addition to our allied devices range with vivo Wireless Sport Lite neckband, a step towards the development of IoT technology. With this new launch, we aim to strike a chord amongst the everyday music lovers by offering an amalgamation of unique and immersive audio experience along with unmatched sound clarity.”

Also Read | 74% parents confess phone usage hurting relationship with kids: Vivo-SwitchOff Report

Ergonomically Designed Neckband with Stereo Sound Experience

Engineered with high-definition auditory capabilities, the Vivo Wireless Sports Lite neckband features a customized 11.2mm ultra-large driver unit designed to deliver a more powerful and full-bodied sound as well as a bio-fibre composite diaphragm to enhance audio intricacies. The neckband is equipped with #Daikoku aluminium-coated bronze coil, a powerfully light structure that reproduces high frequencies. The neckband also comes with a low latency rate of up to 80ms which results in theatre like audio experience. The device also has a call noise cancellation feature which ensures you hear everyone on the other end clearly and experience uninterrupted communication. Packed with 129mAh battery, the neckband provides 5 hours of playtime in just 10 minutes.

Designed carefully in Vivo’s renowned Golden Ears Acoustics Lab, the neckband is equipped with the latest Bluetooth version V5.0 that helps them pair instantly with the nearby devices, making the whole experience hassle-free. Even after having a large driver and a big battery, the vivo Wireless Sport Lite neckband is as light as a feather and weighs only 23.9gms. Carefully engineered with IPX4 protection, the neckband stands by you as you sweat it out at the gym or even if you get caught in the rain. The device also offers many functional features including Easy connection, Magnetic switch, Google Voice assistance, Quick Pair, and Game low lagging which makes it easy for users to use.

The Vivo Wireless Sport Lite neckband showcase Vivo’s commitment to building design-centric devices that improve consumers’ lives.

Also Read: World Esports Cup sees phenomenal response with close to 1.2 million registrations

This holiday season, splurge and save on some enticing deals as Flipkart’s Big Saving Days Sale is back. Infinix, the premium smartphone brand from Transsion Group is selling its popular smartphone models and smart TVs at unbelievable discounts. The offer includes Hot 11s, Smart 5, Hot 10 play (3GB), and smart TVs (32-inch / 40-inch / 43-inch). The sale begins on December 15 and continues till December 21, 2021.

Hot 11S (RRP: 10,999, Flipkart BSD sale price: 10,499)

A massive upgrade in the Hot series, Hot 11S is a #FastForward device backed by the latest processor Helio G88 (12nm) Octa-core processor, MediaTek Hyper Engine 2.0 gaming technology, and the novel Dar-Link Game Boost technology. Operating on the latest Android 11 with the upgraded XOS 7.6 skin, the device stands out for its 6.78-inch display with FHD+ resolution with 90Hz refresh rate, a 50 MP AI Triple rear camera, and a heavy-duty 5,000mAh battery with 18W Fast Charge support.

Smart 5 (2+32 GB- RRP: 7499, Flipkart BSD sale price: 7199)

The smartphone comes with a large 6.82-inch display, an advanced 13MP AI dual Rear camera, an 8MP selfie camera, and an enormous 6,000mAh battery capacity. Operating on Android 10 with the latest XOS 7 skin, the Smart 5 is powered by a Helio G25 Octa-Core processor.

Hot 10 Play (3+32 GB – RRP: 8,299, Flipkart BSD sale price: 7,999)

Powered by an ultra-powerful Helio G35 Octa-core processor, this smartphone features modern architecture and has a 6.82-inch HD+ drop notch display with a 13MP AI dual rear camera with quad-LED flash, backed by a 6,000mAh battery with a power marathon feature.

Infinix X1 (Flipkart BSD sale price: 32- inch 12499 / 40 inch-18999 / 43 inch- 20999)

Infinix’s TUV Rheinland-certified Android smart TVs promise the best viewing experience with EPIC 2.0 picture engine, which uses algorithms to enhance the overall picture quality and improve the brightness, color, contrast, and clarity deliver a vivid picture quality. Meanwhile, the eye-care technology implementation has been done at the LED panel hardware and software level to provide the safest viewing experience.

Powered by Mediatek quad-core processor with 1GB of RAM and 8 GB of ROM, the Infinix X1 series TVs come with built-in 24W box speakers for superior sound experience and higher base effect. A combination of powerful speakers with Dolby Audio delivers a rich, clear, powerful surround sound experience. The Smart TVs also come loaded with built-in Chromecast for seamless connectivity to your favourite video apps such as Netflix, Amazon Prime, YouTube, etc., and Google assistant to have a personalized and hands-free experience.

World Esports Cup (WEC’21), South East Asia’s premier tri-nation esports championship, has seen an overwhelming response from the gaming community from India, Pakistan and Nepal as it recorded close to 1.2 million registrations during the registration phase which ended last month.

With an aim to provide gamers a much-needed platform to showcase their skills with a pride of representing one’s own country, the upcoming WEC 2021, which kickstared from November 25, 2021 has been witnessing an exciting action in presence of top esports athletes from India, Pakistan and Nepal. Owing to the Covid-19 pandemic, the tournament, however, will be played virtually over a period of three months, where athletes will compete in one of the most popular battle royale games, Free Fire.

“It’s heartening to see such a massive response not just from India but also from Pakistan and Nepal for this tournament. While we launched WEC ’21, we strongly felt there was a need to create a platform where gamers and esports athletes of the region come together and compete and help each other professionally as well as financially, and these whooping registration numbers only have validated our beliefs,” said Vishwalok Nath, Director, World Esports Cup.

The registration phase, which started on October 23, has received 10,35,915 entries from India while 71,549 and 34,537 gamers have registered from Pakistan and Nepal respectively. With participants from the smallest towns to the top metros registering for the championship, Delhi has topped the chart with close to 37 lac registrations followed by Mumbai and other cities. Most registrations have been received from the age group of 17 to 20 years with 5,55,377 players opting to compete while close to 70,000 youngsters have registered from the age group of 13-16 years.

Also Read | Infinix League 2.0 for budding gamers rolled out

“Our goal is to become a single opportunity point where every gamer, wanting to compete, can find an opportunity of his or her choice. In WEC ’21, based on the registrations received, the competitive age category pans from 13 years to 25+ and our motive will be to ensure talents don’t go unnoticed whether they come from a small city or a big one,” Nath further added.

While the best 12 teams will be chosen in each country and 12 top teams will be invited to compete with them before the top 4 teams from each country will come together to compete amongst themselves. The inaugural edition will also witness athletes fighting for a whooping prize pool of INR 75 lakhs apart from aiming to win the title. Smartphone maker Infinix Smartphones is the title sponsor of the World Esports Cup 2021.

The thrilling action from the event will be streamed live on official YouTube and Facebook channels of India Today and Aaj Tak along with their website.

Also Read | iRobot Mega Year-End Sale in India starting from December 15