Honor, formerly under Huawei, announces preparation for an Initial Public Offering (IPO).
Leadership restructures with Mr. Wu Hui as Chairman and Mr. Wan Biao as Vice Chairman.
Significant comeback in the Indian market with the launch of the Honor 90 series.
Honor’s Indian operations led by Madhav Sheth of HTech, highlighting the brand’s strategic growth.
Honor, the smartphone brand that was once a part of Huawei Technologies, is on the brink of a significant transformation with its impending Initial Public Offering (IPO).
This move marks a monumental step for Honor, especially considering the brand’s journey since its detachment from Huawei three years ago.
Honor Weathering US Sanctions on Huawei
The divestment from Huawei came as a strategic response to US sanctions that limited Huawei’s access to crucial technologies, following allegations of security threats – claims that Huawei consistently refuted.
Despite these challenges, Honor has not only weathered the storm but also achieved notable business growth and improvements in corporate governance and management.
These advancements have significantly bolstered Honor’s competitive stance in the global smartphone market.
With its eyes set on the capital market, Honor is now fine-tuning its shareholding structure to align with new strategic objectives and to welcome diverse capital investments through its IPO.
Key leadership changes accompany this strategic shift; Mr. Wu Hui has been appointed as the director and Chairman of the Board, while Mr. Wan Biao takes on the role of Vice Chairman, as decided by the Board of Directors and Shareholders’ Meeting.
Honor Reportedly Preparing for an IPO, Marking a New Era in Smartphone Industry
Honor’s India Comeback
In a noteworthy comeback, Honor recently re-entered the Indian market with the launch of its Honor 90 series.
The brand’s operations in India are managed by HTech, under the leadership of Madhav Sheth, formerly of Realme India.
This return to one of the world’s largest smartphone markets underscores Honor’s resilience and strategic vision as it embarks on its journey towards an IPO.
FAQs
What is the significance of Honor’s IPO?
Honor’s IPO represents a major milestone in its independent journey after separating from Huawei. It signifies the brand’s growth and readiness to expand its presence in the global smartphone market.
How has Honor evolved since its separation from Huawei?
Since its divestment from Huawei, Honor has achieved substantial business growth, improved its corporate governance, and strengthened its market position, making it a competitive player in the smartphone industry.
What recent moves has Honor made in the Indian market?
Honor recently made a significant comeback in the Indian market with the launch of the Honor 90 series, managed by HTech under the leadership of Madhav Sheth, showcasing the brand’s commitment to this key market.
Apple rumoured to launch a new 14-inch iPad Pro with a Mini LED display.
Upcoming 11-inch and 12.9-inch iPad Pro models may feature advanced OLED panels.
Potential performance boost with the Apple M3 chip and 12 GPU cores.
Expected new features include Dynamic Island, upgraded Apple Pencil 3, and MagSafe compatibility.
Apple, a pioneer in the tablet industry, is rumoured to be gearing up for an exciting expansion of its iPad Pro lineup.
According to the latest buzz, Apple enthusiasts can look forward to not just one but three iPad Pro models, each boasting advanced display technologies and powerful internals.
This move could significantly bolster Apple’s position in the high-end tablet market.
A Trio of Cutting-Edge Displays
At the heart of the rumours, supplied by reliable tipster Majin Bu, is the introduction of a new 14-inch iPad Pro, which is expected to feature a Mini LED panel.
This addition would complement the existing 11-inch and 12.9-inch models, both of which are rumoured to transition to OLED displays for the first time.
The switch to OLED is anticipated to offer enhanced vibrancy and brightness, with the new iPad Pro 11 and iPad Pro 12.9 potentially reaching an impressive peak brightness of up to 3,000 nits.
Under the hood, these next-generation iPad Pros are rumoured to be powered by the Apple M3 chip, possibly featuring 12 GPU cores – an upgrade from the 10-core variant seen in the MacBook Pro 14.
Additionally, these models might see the integration of Apple’s Dynamic Island, an innovative user interface feature.
Alongside, there’s speculation about the inclusion of an aluminium Magic Keyboard and a new Apple Pencil 3that supports interchangeable tips.
MagSafe technology might also make its debut in the ‘Pro’ iPad lineup, replacing the Smart Connector, though this remains unconfirmed.
These advancements indicate that Apple is not only focusing on screen size and quality but also on enhancing the overall user experience and productivity capabilities of the iPad Pro range.
Only time will tell if these leaks and rumours translate to official announcements so take everything mentioned here with a grain of salt.
FAQs
What are the expected sizes for the new iPad Pro models?
Apple is rumoured to offer three sizes in its next iPad Pro lineup: an 11-inch and a 12.9-inch model, both with OLED displays, and a new 14-inch model featuring a Mini LED display.
How will the display technology change in the new iPad Pro models?
The new 11-inch and 12.9-inch iPad Pros are expected to switch to OLED panels, potentially reaching up to 3,000 nits in brightness, while the 14-inch model is rumored to have a Mini LED display.
What are the anticipated performance upgrades for the new iPad Pros?
The upcoming iPad Pros are rumoured to be equipped with the Apple M3 chip, which might include a 12-core GPU variant, offering enhanced performance compared to the current models.
Will there be any new features in the next iPad Pros?
Yes, the next iPad Pros may feature several new additions, including Dynamic Island, an aluminium Magic Keyboard, an Apple Pencil 3 with interchangeable tips, and possibly MagSafe charging.
Leaked images reveal the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra in a new silver colour, sporting a flat screen and back.
The upcoming flagship retains the quad-camera setup in a metal ring, similar to the S23 Ultra.
Rumoured to feature a titanium frame, replacing the Armor Aluminum casing.
Anticipated launch on January 17, with pre-orders expected to start immediately after the event.
Anticipation is mounting as the rumoured January 17 launch of the Samsung Galaxy S24 series approaches, with the latest leak offering a glimpse at the Galaxy S24 Ultra in a sleek silver finish.
This new revelation showcases a flagship that closely resembles its predecessor, the Galaxy S23 Ultra, albeit with notable changes like a flat screen and back design.
S24 Ultra Design Leaked
The design continuity is evident in the camera setup, with the S24 Ultra maintaining the distinct four-camera array within a separate metal ring, a feature that was well-received in the S23 Ultra.
However, a significant upgrade is expected in the form of a titanium frame, a departure from the Armor Aluminum casing used in the previous series.
The event in San Hose, California, is where the Galaxy S24 series is expected to be unveiled, and rumours suggest that pre-orders might kick off immediately after the announcement.
This would mean that eager customers could see the first shipments arriving just a week post-launch.
Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra Emerges in Leaked Photos Ahead of Official Launch
S24 Ultra: Expected Specs
Digging deeper into the rumoured specs, the S24 Ultra is poised to retain several key features from the S23 Ultra, such as the 5,000mAh battery, a 200MP primary rear camera, and a 6.8-inch display.
However, it’s the subtle enhancements that are generating buzz.
The display might see a significant boost in peak brightness, possibly reaching around 2,500 nits.
Moreover, there’s talk of an entirely new 200MP sensor, enhancing the already impressive photographic capabilities.
Storage options are rumoured to range widely, potentially offering choices from 128GB all the way up to a massive 2TB.
While it’s still unclear if these upgrades will result in a price hike over the S23 Ultra, the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra is shaping up to be a powerhouse of a device that blends familiar excellence with exciting new advancements.
What are the notable design changes in the Galaxy S24 Ultra?
The Galaxy S24 Ultra is rumoured to have a flat screen and back, differentiating it from its predecessor. Additionally, it’s expected to come in a new silver color and features a titanium frame instead of the Armor Aluminum casing.
Will the camera setup be different from the Galaxy S23 Ultra?
The Galaxy S24 Ultra is set to retain its predecessor’s camera design, featuring all four cameras within a separate metal ring, maintaining a consistent look with the S23 Ultra.
When is the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra expected to launch?
Samsung is expected to announce the Galaxy S24 Ultra on January 17 at a special event in San Hose, California, with pre-orders rumoured to begin shortly after the unveiling.
Elon Musk reverses earlier decision, bringing back headlines to Twitter/X link previews
New update aims to overlay headlines semi-transparently over linked article images
Decision responds to user feedback highlighting the need for context in link previews
Balance between aesthetic appeal and informative content achieved with this update
In a notable policy reversal, Elon Musk has decided to reintroduce headlines in link previews on Twitter/X, deviating from the platform’s earlier decision to eliminate them.
This change was initially implemented to encourage original content and improve the overall user experience, but it faced substantial pushback from the user community.
Users had expressed dissatisfaction with the removal of headlines, citing difficulties in quickly understanding the context of linked articles.
The absence of headlines had taken away the convenience of swiftly accessing news, a feature that many Twitter/X users had valued.
Musk’s decision to bring back headlines is a response to this user feedback, or possibly his own experiences with the altered format.
Elon Musk Says X Will Get Back Link Previews in Headlines
The upcoming update to Twitter/X will feature headlines displayed in a semi-transparent overlay on the images of linked articles.
This strategy seeks to strike a balance between providing essential context and maintaining the platform’s visual cleanliness, a concern Musk originally cited for the removal of headlines.
The reinstatement of headlines on Twitter/X is being welcomed by users, as it facilitates a quicker and more informed engagement with linked content.
It would appear that even though initially unwilling Musk is now bending over to adapt policies in response to user feedback, demonstrating a commitment to enhancing the user experience on the platform.
FAQs
Why did Elon Musk decide to bring back headlines to Twitter/X?
The decision to reintroduce headlines came after significant user feedback. Users expressed difficulty in understanding the context of linked articles without headlines, leading Musk to revise his initial stance aimed at enhancing the platform’s visual appeal and encouraging original content.
How will the headlines be displayed in the new Twitter/X update?
The upcoming Twitter/X update will feature headlines in link previews displayed in a semi-transparent manner over the images of linked articles. This approach is designed to provide essential context while maintaining the platform’s streamlined, aesthetic look.
What was the initial reason for removing headlines from Twitter/X link previews?
Elon Musk originally removed headlines from link previews on Twitter/X to improve the platform’s aesthetic and promote original content creation. However, this move was met with user criticism due to the reduced ability to quickly grasp linked content.
India set to face Australia in a five-match T20I series beginning November 23
Series marks another chapter in the intense cricket rivalry between the two teams
Matches to be live-streamed on Jio Cinema and broadcast on Sports 18, Colors Cineplex
Key players include Suryakumar Yadav for India and Matthew Wade for Australia
The highly anticipated India vs Australia T20I series is set to commence, promising cricket fans another thrilling encounter between these two cricketing giants.
After their recent face-off in the ICC World Cup 2023 final, which saw Australia clinch the title, both teams are gearing up for a five-match T20I series.
This exciting series is a part of Australia’s tour of India and will kick off in Vishakhapatnam on November 23, 2023.
India vs Australia T20I Live Streaming: A Year of Rivalry
This year has witnessed several intense matches between India and Australia. The teams first clashed in the World Test Championship 2023 final, where Australia secured a significant 209-run victory.
The rivalry was further fueled in September during the ODI series in India, where the hosts triumphed with a 2-1 series win.
The competition continued through the league stage and culminated in the final of the 2023 World Cup.
India vs Australia T20I Live Streaming: Series Schedule and Venues
The upcoming T20I series promises to be a captivating showdown, with matches scheduled across five different venues in India.
The series opener will take place at Dr. Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium in Vishakhapatnam.
The subsequent matches are set to be held in Thiruvananthapuram, Guwahati, Raipur, and Bengaluru, ensuring a pan-Indian cricketing spectacle.
India vs Australia T20I Live Streaming
India vs Australia T20I Live Streaming: Where to Watch
Cricket enthusiasts eager to catch the India vs Australia T20I Live Streaming can tune in to Jio Cinema, which will broadcast the matches for free.
Additionally, the series will also be aired on Sports 18 and Colors Cineplex, offering fans various options to enjoy the games.
India vs Australia T20I Live Streaming: Team Lineups and Players
The squads for both teams have been announced, with Suryakumar Yadav leading the Indian team and Matthew Wade captaining the Australian side.
The Indian squad includes notable players like Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ishan Kishan, and Washington Sundar, while the Australian team boasts talents like Glenn Maxwell, Steve Smith, and Marcus Stoinis.
India vs Australia T20I Live Streaming: Team Lineups and Players
India vs Australia T20I Live Streaming: Anticipating the Showdown
As the excitement builds up for the India vs Australia T20I series, fans are keenly awaiting what promises to be an exhilarating cricketing experience.
With a mix of experienced players and fresh talent, both teams are ready to put up a memorable show in this upcoming series.
FAQs
When does the India vs Australia T20I series start and how many matches are there?
The India vs Australia T20I series, featuring five matches, is set to begin on November 23, 2023. This series is a continuation of the cricket rivalry between the two nations and part of Australia’s tour of India.
Where can fans watch the India vs Australia T20I Live Streaming?
Fans can watch the India vs Australia T20I Live Streaming on Jio Cinema, which offers free broadcasting in India. The series will also be aired on Sports 18 and Colors Cineplex for a wider audience reach.
What are the venues for the India vs Australia T20I series?
The T20I series will be held across five venues in India – Vishakhapatnam, Thiruvananthapuram, Guwahati, Raipur, and Bengaluru. Each venue offers a unique cricketing atmosphere, contributing to the excitement of the series.
Galaxy Z Flip 5 Maison Margiela Edition combines luxury fashion with advanced technology
Exclusive 512GB variant priced at approximately Rs. 1,59,500 available via lottery
Special edition features unique archival box design and two bespoke cases
Limited availability in select regions including China, Hong Kong, and South Korea
Samsung has once again merged technology with high fashion, unveiling the Galaxy Z Flip 5 Maison Margiela Edition.
This latest iteration of the Galaxy Z Flip 5, released alongside the Galaxy Z Fold 5 in July, showcases the brand’s second collaboration with French luxury fashion house Maison Margiela.
Known for their deconstructive and refined design aesthetics, the special edition phone embodies a unique blend of technology and fashion artistry.
Pricing and availability
Samsung Unveils Galaxy Z Flip 5 Maison Margiela Edition in High Fashion Collaboration
The Galaxy Z Flip 5 Maison Margiela Edition, available in a 512GB storage option, is priced at KRW 2,497,000 (approximately Rs. 1,59,500).
This exclusive model will be offered through a lottery on Samsung’s official site, with applications open from 9 am to 5 pm local time (5:30 am to 1:30 pm IST) on November 30.
A limited number of units will be available for purchase in China, Hong Kong, and South Korea. However, Samsung has not confirmed the availability of this special edition model in India yet.
Galaxy
Galaxy Z Flip 5 Maison Margiela Edition: Features
Z Flip 5 Maison Margiela Edition: Features
Reflecting Maison Margiela’s signature style, the phone is presented in a large archival-style box, typically used in atelier stores for preserving fabric samples and threads.
The packaging, wrapped in woven book cloth fabric, features Maison Margiela’s iconic jacket on the back, adding to the phone’s luxurious appeal.
Inside the box, users will find two bespoke cases — the Flap Leather Case and the Flipsuit Case, each complementing the phone’s high-fashion theme.
This special edition is not just about aesthetics; it’s also technologically advanced. The phone runs on a custom Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 SoC and boasts an IPX8 rating, ensuring robust performance and resistance to dust and water.
Adding to its uniqueness, the Galaxy Z Flip 5 Maison Margiela Edition includes two exclusive wallpapers: Stitches, featuring handwoven stitches, and Trompe-L’oeil, depicting the inner workings of a garment.
These wallpapers resonate with Maison Margiela’s fashion-forward design ethos.
The phone is being showcased in South Korea at Samsung Gangnam and Samsung Hongdae stores from November 23.
What is unique about the Galaxy Z Flip 5 Maison Margiela Edition?
The Galaxy Z Flip 5 Maison Margiela Edition is a special collaboration between Samsung and French luxury fashion house Maison Margiela. It stands out with its unique archival box packaging and bespoke design elements that reflect Margiela’s deconstructive fashion style, including exclusive wallpapers and two specially designed cases.
How can one purchase the Galaxy Z Flip 5 Maison Margiela Edition?
The special edition can be purchased through a lottery system on Samsung’s official site. Applications are open for a limited time on November 30, and winners will be announced the next day. The phone is available in a 512GB storage variant.
What are the key features of the Galaxy Z Flip 5 Maison Margiela Edition?
This special edition is powered by a custom Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 SoC and has an IPX8 dust and water resistance rating. It showcases Samsung’s technological prowess combined with Maison Margiela’s high-fashion aesthetic, presented in a distinctive archival-style box.
Dual-display design featuring a 6.9-inch AMOLED screen and a 1.32-inch outer display
Equipped with a 64MP primary camera and a versatile 32MP front camera
Powered by Mediatek Dimensity 8050 with 8GB RAM, expandable to 16GB
4000mAh battery with 45W fast charging, offering substantial battery life
Foldable phones, recently popularized by major brands, have piqued interest with their innovative flips and folds.
Yet, many remain hesitant to adopt this form factor, largely due to high prices and concerns about the durability of such ‘moving parts’ in a device as crucial as a smartphone.
Tecno aims to address these hesitations with its competitively priced Phantom V Flip at Rs. 54,999.
However, the affordability raises questions about its build quality, performance, and camera capabilities, and whether it involves compromising on essential features.
My comprehensive review below seeks to explore whether the Phantom V Flip is merely a budget-friendly option or indeed the best value-for-money offering in its category.
Cameras: 64MP primary, 13MP ultra-wide, 32MP front
Chipset: Mediatek Dimensity 8050
RAM/Storage: 8GB (expandable to 16GB)/256GB UFS 3.1
Battery: 4000mAh with 45W fast charging
OS: HiOS 13.5 based on Android 13
Design
Tecno Phantom V Flip: Design
The Tecno Phantom V Flip impresses with its sleek design, reminiscent of a refreshing watermelon ice lolly.
It boasts a slim profile enhanced by a vegan leather back and a distinct drop-shaped hinge, exuding a sense of premium quality.
The phone’s front features a unique circular display/camera module when folded, blending functionality with style.
In terms of construction, the Phantom V Flip incorporates a hole-punch foldable display within an aluminum frame and a durable steel hinge.
User-friendly design elements include volume rockers and a power button with an integrated fingerprint sensor on the right side, as well as dual microphones located at the top and bottom.
The device also features a high-quality stereo speaker setup. Notably, when I folded the device, the phone maintains a seamless appearance with no visible gap between the displays.
Tecno has employed an innovative ‘Hoverlock’ hinge design that allows adjustable angles between 30 and 150 degrees, though opening the phone single-handedly can be challenging.
Display
Tecno Phantom V Flip: Display
With its 6.9-inch flexible AMOLED inner display, the Tecno Phantom V Flip is definitely a head-turner.
This display is a visual feast, boasting full-HD+ clarity paired with a buttery smooth 120Hz refresh rate.
Stepping into the realm of innovation, the Phantom V Flip boasts a quirky yet charming 1.32-inch circular outer display, akin to a miniature smartwatch face on your phone.
This nifty feature transforms into a personal command center, offering up to ten customizable widgets.
From getting quick weather updates to checking your health stats, setting alarms, or even using it as a camera viewfinder, this little circle of wonder packs a punch far above its size.
Additional perks like weather alerts, timers, stopwatches, and sound recorders are just a swipe away, making it a powerhouse of functionality.
While it dazzles indoors with its vibrant display, the phone’s brightness, peaking at 800 nits, doesn’t quite hold up under the harsh scrutiny of direct sunlight.
This shortfall is notable, especially when other phones in the same league or even lower offer more luminous screens.
However, the Phantom V Flip compensates with its versatile inner display, enriched by HDR10 and HDR10+ codecs.
This translates to a great viewing experience in various apps, whether you’re capturing moments with the camera, binge-watching on YouTube, or multitasking in split-screen mode.
Cameras
Tecno Phantom V Flip: Camera
The Tecno Phantom V Flip comes equipped with a robust camera array, featuring a 64MP primary sensor and a 13MP ultra-wide-angle camera.
Selfie enthusiasts are treated to a 32MP front-facing camera, smartly integrated into a center-aligned hole-punch cutout.
Tecno enhances the primary camera with an RGBW pixel format, allowing for 60 percent more light intake, leading to reduced noise and improved color accuracy.
The device’s Dual-camera Fusion technology synergizes the 64MP and 13MP lenses for enhanced, detailed ultra-wide shots.
Despite its prowess in standard lighting, the Phantom V Flip struggles in low-light conditions, producing images that lack detail and exhibit washed-out colors, even with AI assistance.
However, the game changes with its Super Night mode, where the primary camera excels in capturing detailed images in dim settings.
The 32MP front camera, boasting the industry’s first Micro-slit Dual-flash for flip phones and equipped with a Super Flashlight algorithm, exhibited excellent selfie outputs in our tests.
The dual-display design adds a creative layer to photography, allowing users to take selfies with the rear 64MP camera using the cover display as a viewfinder.
While the camera setup delivers sharp details, it tends to render slightly dull colours, especially noticeable in portrait mode.
The portrait mode’s performance is optimal at 1x zoom but diminishes at 2x, highlighting the absence of a dedicated depth sensor.
Overall, the camera system on the Phantom V Flip is a blend of innovative features and areas where enhancements could be beneficial.
Performance and Software
Tecno Phantom V Flip: Performance
The Tecno Phantom V Flip is powered by a Mediatek Dimensity 8050 chipset, paired with 8GB of RAM and 256GB of UFS 3.1 storage.
This configuration positions it well within the mid-range smartphone market. However, considering its price point, the choice of chipset might seem underwhelming to some.
In performance benchmarks, the V Flip scored 683,773 in AnTuTu and achieved single-core and multi-core scores of 1,097 and 3,393, respectively, on Geekbench 6.
Notably, the CPU Throttle test revealed that the phone operates at 66 percent of its peak capacity, which can be considered a bit poor.
However, the gaming performance on the Phantom V Flip is more than decent. It handles graphically demanding games like CoD and BGMI with ease.
The phone’s RAM capacity, expandable up to 16GB using UFS 2.1 technology, further bolsters its performance capabilities.
This expansion allows for fluid multitasking and quick responsiveness in apps like Lightroom and VN Editor.
The Phantom V Flip also has commendable audio output and connectivity features. The stereo speakers deliver satisfactory audio quality, enriching the multimedia experience.
Connectivity-wise, the phone maintains stable 5G connectivity on Airtel’s Delhi network, ensuring seamless communication and data transfer.
The Tecno Phantom V Flip arrives with HiOS 13.5, Tecno’s custom skin overlaying Android 13, offering a user-friendly experience with an array of features.
While it comes with pre-installed apps like WPS Office, Phone Master, Facebook, Mobile Cloner, Visha Player, Spotify, Carlcare, Instagram, and its own ‘Sharp News’ aggregator, users have the option to uninstall most of these, except for a few Tecno-specific applications.
Tecno has committed to two years of OS updates and three years of security updates for the device.
The interface, packed with gesture controls and multitasking capabilities, ensures a smooth and intuitive user experience.
Notably, HiOS 13.5 integrates a unique feature, Ella, a chatbot connected to ChatGPT, accessible via the power button, enhancing the overall functionality of the phone.
Battery
Tecno Phantom V Flip: Battery
The Tecno Phantom V Flip’s battery performance is not that great as it features only a 4000mAh capacity with 45-watt fast charging support.
It charges from 0 to 100% in about 45 minutes, and the phone maintains battery life throughout a day of moderate use.
However, when throwing in gaming, video streaming, messaging, and other heavy tasks, the device runs out before the end of the day.
Even so, in my video loop test, the battery lasted for over 12 hours, ensuring users can rely on the phone’s endurance for their daily activities.
Final Verdict
Tecno Phantom V Flip: Verdict
The Tecno Phantom V Flip offers a unique blend of innovative design and functional features, making it a compelling choice in the mid-range smartphone market.
Its dual-display design, camera capabilities, and performance are notable, though it falls short in aspects like low-light photography and battery endurance under heavy use.
What makes the Tecno Phantom V Flip’s display unique?
The Tecno Phantom V Flip boasts a dual-display setup with a primary 6.9-inch AMOLED screen offering a 120Hz refresh rate for smooth visuals. Additionally, it features a novel 1.32-inch outer display, similar to a smartwatch screen, for quick access to apps and notifications.
How does the camera performance of the Tecno Phantom V Flip stand out?
The smartphone is equipped with a 64MP primary camera and a 13MP ultra-wide-angle camera, offering sharp and detailed photos. Its 32MP front-facing camera delivers high-quality selfies and is complemented by unique features like Micro-slit Dual-flash and Super Night mode for low-light photography.
What are the key performance features of the Tecno Phantom V Flip?
The device is powered by a Mediatek Dimensity 8050 chipset and comes with 8GB of RAM, which can be expanded to 16GB. It handles demanding applications and games smoothly, and the HiOS 13.5 interface based on Android 13 enhances the user experience with additional features and customization options.
Veris Co-Founder Aastha Sharma shares insights into the company’s founding and its mission to revolutionize workplace experiences.
Sharma discusses the evolution of Veris’s vision in response to the hybrid work model and technological advancements.
The challenges and strategic adaptations of Veris during the COVID-19 pandemic are highlighted.
As Women’s Entrepreneurship Day passes us by, we had a chance to delve into the insightful journey of Aastha Sharma, Co-Founder and Chief Evangelist of Veris, a company at the forefront of revolutionizing workplace management.
Sharma shares her experiences and visions, discussing the evolution of Veris, the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, and her views on female leadership in technology.
She also reflects on her transition from the beauty and lifestyle sector to leading a global SaaS venture and outlines the future goals for Veris.
Can you share the journey of founding Veris and what drove you to innovate in the workplace management sector?
As globe-trotting youngsters, constantly hopping from one meeting to another something kept bothering us – the archaic, frustrating, and uninspiring state of office spaces. That’s when the spark ignited.
United by our shared discontent, my co-founders and I, embarked on this journey, not just as business leaders, but quite literally as workplace warriors.
Our motivation? To liberate workplaces from mediocrity and usher in a new era of efficiency, security, and human-centricity.
Veris is our canvas, where innovation paints a brighter future for all who step into the world of work.
Ultimately, Veris was born from a burning desire to rewrite the script of workplace experiences.
As a co-founder, what was your initial vision for Veris, and how has that vision evolved with the company’s growth?
When we embarked on the Veris journey as co-founders, our initial vision was to revolutionize workplace management by creating efficient, secure, and delightful office environments.
However, the work landscape underwent a seismic shift, primarily due to the rise of hybrid work model.
Employees no longer saw offices as their daily abodes but as destinations for collaboration and specific tasks.
This shift pushed us to evolve our vision. We recognized the need for workplaces to become more like homes, offering services and experiences that make employees feel valued and comfortable.
Moreover, the distinction between employees and visitors blurred, with everyone expecting seamless and frictionless experiences. As a result, our vision expanded to encompass the changing expectations of the workforce.
We’ve been on a relentless journey to transform Veris into a platform that not only manages workplaces efficiently but also predicts & adapts services to cater to the evolving needs of modern workforces.
With the advent of AI, we’re making workplaces more intelligent, predicting patterns, and personalizing services.
Our suite of solutions now spans 22 countries, truly reflecting a global reach. We’ve addressed linguistic diversity, data privacy concerns, and earned the trust of Fortune 500 IT teams.
With over 300 satisfied customers and grade A support, our mission is to continue shaping the narrative of Enterprise SaaS in workplaces worldwide.
What were some significant challenges Veris faced, especially during the Covid-19 pandemic, and how did the company adapt to these unprecedented times?
Covid posed an existential threat to a company dedicated to enhancing workplace experiences, as offices worldwide closed their doors.
The revenue stream that once flowed robustly came to a jarring halt, and uncertainty lurked in our heads. As workplaces grappled with lockdowns, Veris’ core mission faced a challenge.
Yet, our clients didn’t view the company as just another service provider; they saw us as a trusted partner. Despite pausing services, many clients recognized our dedication to innovation.
They believed that if any company could understand and develop technology solutions tailored for the post-Covid workplace, it was Veris.
Leveraging these insights and client support, Veris underwent a metamorphosis. What emerged was a comprehensive Workplace Management Cloud, poised to navigate the complexities of a world emerging from the pandemic’s shadow.
One of the biggest challenges was facilitating the safe return of employees to offices while ensuring their health and safety.
Veris adapted by introducing health checks, vaccination tracking, real-time occupancy monitoring, hot-desking, employee intent capture etc. to create COVID-safe workspaces.
With more time, our products evolved to become more versatile, intelligent, and adaptable, anticipating the needs of workplaces in a post-pandemic world.
Today, as we look back, we see these challenges not just as hurdles but as opportunities to drive innovation and enhance workplace experiences further.
The pandemic reshaped the workplace, and Veris was there to embrace the change and pave the way for a safer, more efficient, and more intelligent future of work.
How do you think female leadership uniquely contributes to the tech world, and what changes would you like to see to encourage more women in technology?
I firmly believe in Equalism rather than advocating for any specific -ism. Leadership should be a meritocracy, where the best individuals, irrespective of gender or background, rise to the forefront.
To encourage more women to pursue careers in technology, it’s imperative that we actively address and eliminate the barriers that often discourage them from entering this field.
One crucial step is to inspire and empower girls from an early age to explore and embrace STEM subjects.
This can be achieved through educational programs, mentorship opportunities, and initiatives that showcase the exciting possibilities within the tech world.
Furthermore, fostering an inclusive workplace culture is paramount. Companies and organizations must actively work towards creating environments where diversity is not only acknowledged but celebrated.
This includes implementing policies that promote equal opportunities, ensuring that women have access to mentorship and professional development, and creating support networks that enable them to thrive in the tech industry.
Transitioning from the beauty and lifestyle sector to leading a global SaaS venture, what were your key learnings, and how did you manage this pivot?
I’ve always believed in the Human-to-Human (H2H) paradigm, where the core of any business engagement is a deep human connection.
In the beauty and lifestyle sector, this belief has led the beauty industry to champion personalized solutions that cater to individual needs and desires- creating & marketing products that resonate with them on a personal level.
Bringing this perspective to Veris, I see our workplace management solutions as lifestyle products for corporate offices.
We’re not just offering software; we’re shaping behaviors and revolutionizing patterns of usage. We focus intently on the needs and preferences of the end-users, just as we did in the B2C world.
In enterprise SaaS, the key lesson I’ve learned is that we shouldn’t view businesses merely as buyers of our product.
Instead, we must visualize the users within those organizations, understand what drives and compels them, and delve into their journeys.
It’s about identifying the challenges and frictions they encounter and developing solutions that enhance their experiences.
Looking ahead, what are the future goals for Veris, and how do you plan to continue shaping the narrative of Enterprise SaaS within workplaces?
Our primary goal is to consolidate and expand our presence in the Indian market by collaborating with forward-thinking enterprises that prioritize their employees’ well-being and embrace modern workplace solutions.
Additionally, we are excited about the strong traction we’ve been receiving from the Middle East and aim to establish a significant footprint in this dynamic region.
At the core of our vision is the continuous innovation of our products, staying ahead of industry trends, andintegrating AI to make our services more responsive and intuitive.
FAQs
What inspired the founding of Veris and its focus on workplace management?
Aastha Sharma, Veris Co-Founder, explains that the inspiration came from witnessing the outdated and uninspiring state of office spaces. The goal was to transform these spaces into efficient, secure, and human-centric environments, thus liberating workplaces from mediocrity.
How has Veris’s vision evolved with the company’s growth?
Sharma notes that Veris’s vision evolved from merely managing workplaces to creating more home-like environments for collaboration and comfort. This change was driven by the rise of the hybrid work model and the need to cater to the evolving expectations of the workforce.
How did Veris adapt to the challenges presented by the Covid-19 pandemic?
During the pandemic, Veris pivoted to develop solutions for COVID-safe workspaces, introducing features like health checks and real-time occupancy monitoring. Despite initial challenges, the company emerged with versatile, intelligent products adapted for post-pandemic work environments.
iPhone 15 available at Rs 71,900 at Croma after discounts.
Croma offers iPhone 14 starting at Rs 61,490 post-discount.
Vijay Sales selling iPhone 15 at Rs 72,900 during Black Friday sale.
Discounts also on Apple Watch SE, Series 9, AirPods Pro, iPads, and AirTags.
The ongoing Black Friday sales at Croma and Vijay Sales are presenting some attractive discounts on Apple’s newest iPhone 15 series, along with other Apple devices and electronics.
Launched in India at Rs 79,900 in September, the iPhone 15 is now more accessible thanks to these deals.
Croma’s iPhone 15 Discounts
iPhone 15
At Croma, the iPhone 15 starts at Rs 79,900.
However, there’s a Rs 5,000 instant discount for HDFC Bank credit card users, reducing the price to Rs 74,900.
An additional Rs 3,000 off for online purchases brings the effective price down to Rs 71,900. There’s also an exchange offer for those trading in an older device.
The iPhone 15 comes in five colours: Black, Green, Pink, Blue, and Yellow, with storage options of 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB. Notably, the 512GB model is only eligible for the Rs 5,000 HDFC cashback, excluding the Rs 3,000 online discount.
Feature-wise, the iPhone 15 boasts a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display, the A16 Bionic chip, and dual rear cameras with a 48MP main and a 12MP secondary sensor. It features a 12MP front camera, the Dynamic Island feature, IP68 water resistance, and supports 15W MagSafe wireless charging.
Apple iPhone 14 Deal at Croma
Croma is also offering the iPhone 14 at a starting price of Rs 65,490, with an additional Rs 4,000 discount for HDFC Bank credit card holders, lowering the price to Rs 61,490.
Aside from iPhones, discounts extend to Apple Watch SE, Apple Watch Series 9, and other Apple products,along with laptops, earphones, tablets, Android smartphones, and home appliances.
FAQs
What is the discounted price of iPhone 15 at Croma during the Black Friday sale?
During Croma’s Black Friday sale, the iPhone 15 is available at an effective price of Rs 71,900, including a Rs 5,000 HDFC Bank credit card discount and an additional Rs 3,000 off for online purchases.
What offers are available on iPhone 14 at Croma?
Croma is offering the iPhone 14 at a starting price of Rs 65,490, with an additional Rs 4,000 discount for HDFC Bank credit card holders, bringing the price down to Rs 61,490.
What are the deals on Apple products at Vijay Sales?
Vijay Sales is offering the iPhone 15 at Rs 72,900, along with discounts on other Apple products like AirPods Pro, Apple Watch Series 9, iPads, and AirTags during their Black Friday sale.
The sale includes significant offers on a variety of products like Smartphones, Smartwatches, Laptops, TVs, and home appliances.
Key Offers and Deals
For early birds, the Mivi DUOPODS N2 Truly Wireless Earbuds are a highlight, available for just Rs 599 on the website, but only from 12 am to 5 am on November 24, 2023.
Gaming enthusiasts will find the ASUS ROG Phone 6at a reduced price of Rs 47,999, down from Rs 71,999. The Sony Play Station PS5 Standard Cricket24 bundle is also available at Rs 47,990.
Smartphone deals start at Rs 6799, offering an opportunity for those looking to upgrade their devices.
The 65-inch Sansui 4k QLED television, priced at Rs 51,000, and the boAt Aavante Bar Rhythm at Rs 3,499, are among the offers for enhancing home entertainment.
Smartwatches and Audio Gear
Smartwatches start at Rs 790, offering various options for tracking daily activities. For audio enthusiasts, the OnePlus Bullets Wireless Z2 is available at Rs 1999, and headphones start from Rs 899.
Vijay Sales Black Friday Sale Brings Big Savings on Electronics and Home Appliances
Home and Kitchen Appliances
The sale extends to kitchen appliances, starting from Rs 299, and includes the Philips Air Fryer at Rs 6,299 and the Prestige 1.5L Kettle at Rs 620.
Washing machines are available starting at Rs 6990. Invertor ACs start from Rs 25,990, and refrigerators from Rs 7999.
Winter Essentials and Apple Products
Geysers and Water Heaters are offered at up to 40% off. Appleenthusiasts can find the latest iPhone 15 Pro starting from Rs 72,990, including an instant discount of Rs 5,000 from HDFC Bank Cards.
Bank Offers
HSBC Bank: Get a 7.5% instant discount up to Rs. 7,500 on Credit Card EMI transactions with a minimum purchase of Rs. 20,000.
ICICI Bank: Secure a 7.5% instant discount up to Rs. 3,000 on Credit & Debit Card EMI transactions, or a 5% discount up to Rs. 1,500 on Credit Card Non-EMI transactions, both on purchases over Rs. 20,000. For transactions above Rs. 1,00,000, enjoy a flat Rs. 5,000 discount on Credit & Debit Card EMI and Non-EMI transactions.
YES Bank: Receive a 5% instant discount up to Rs. 2,500 on Credit Card EMI transactions for a cart value above Rs. 15,000.
OneCard Credit Card: Benefit from a 5% instant discount up to Rs. 7,500 on EMI transactions and up to Rs. 1,000 on Non-EMI transactions, both above Rs. 15,000.
AU Small Finance Bank: Avail a 5% instant discount up to Rs. 1,000 on Debit and Credit Card Non-EMI transactions over Rs. 10,000, valid on Sundays at stores.
DBS Bank: Enjoy a 10% instant discount up to Rs. 2,500 on EMI & Non-EMI transactions over Rs. 15,000 at stores.
FAQs
What are the dates for Vijay Sales Black Friday Sale?
The Vijay Sales Black Friday Sale is happening at all its stores and online, starting from midnight to 5 am on November 24, 2023.
What deals can I expect on smartphones during the sale?
The sale offers smartphones starting at Rs 6799, with notable deals like the ASUS ROG Phone 6 for Rs 47,999 and the latest iPhone 15 Pro starting from Rs 72,990, including HDFC bank discounts.
Are there any offers on home entertainment products?
Yes, the sale includes the 65-inch Sansui 4K QLED TV priced at Rs 51,000 and the boAt Aavante Bar Rhythm for Rs 3,499, among other deals on TVs and audio equipment.
What kitchen and home appliance deals are available?
Kitchen appliance offers start from Rs 299, featuring items like the Philips Air Fryer for Rs 6,299 and the Prestige 1.5L Kettle at Rs 620. Washing machines and refrigerators start at Rs 6990 and Rs 7999, respectively.
