The World Opinion

Category: Technology

  • Google Announces AI-led Collaborations For India’s Health, Sustainability, And Agriculture Sectors |

    New Delhi: Google has unveiled a series of new AI-powered partnerships aimed at advancing healthcare, sustainability, and agriculture in India. The tech giant is collaborating with both local and international organizations to implement AI-driven solutions in diabetic retinopathy screening, urban waste management, and agricultural development.

    According to Google, these announcements were made during a roundtable in Bengaluru, marking the fifth anniversary of Google’s Research Lab in the city. This follows the 10th edition of the Google for India event, which showcased the potential of AI to benefit individuals, businesses, and society at large.

    Dr Manish Gupta, Research Director of Google DeepMind, stated, “Collaborating with key Indian organizations, our focused research in India across language understanding, healthcare, agriculture, and sustainability is helping tackle many of the country’s unique challenges and creating AI-led solutions that will improve billions of lives.”

    Google is working with Forus Health and AuroLab in India and Perceptra in Thailand to provide 6 million AI-assisted screenings for diabetic retinopathy over the next decade. These screenings aim to detect and prevent blindness in diabetic patients, particularly in resource-limited communities. The AI ​​model has already supported over 600,000 screenings worldwide, with initial research and deployment carried out in India.

    Sunny Virmani, Group Product Manager, Health AI Research at Google, remarked, “From our initial research to the first patient screening in Madurai, India, we’ve been committed to translating AI’s potential into meaningful change for people globally. And now the partnerships with Forus Health, AuroLab, and Perceptra are helping us expand on this commitment, as a global network of innovators comes together to eradicate preventable blindness due to diabetic retinopathy.”

    Google’s CircularNet, an AI-driven computer vision model for waste management, is being deployed in partnership with Bengaluru-based Saahas Zero Waste. CircularNet helps identify and sort plastic waste, facilitating recycling and reducing the strain on landfills. Powered by Google’s TensorFlow, the model has shown approximately 85% accuracy in detecting plastic waste during a pilot program, potentially boosting revenue for material recovery facilities by 10-12%.

    To support data-driven decision-making in agriculture, Google is also opening its Agricultural Landscape Understanding (ALU) Research API to developers. The API leverages satellite imagery and machine learning to provide farm-level insights, such as field boundaries, water bodies, and vegetation. The technology aims to optimize resource allocation and guide sustainable farming practices in India.

  • Shocking! Telegram AI Bots Can Generate Deepfakes Of Women And Girls: Report |

    New Delhi: The growing threat of deepfakes and AI misuse has taken a troubling turn, with a recent investigation revealing that AI-powered chatbots on Telegram are being used to generate explicit images of real people. Millions of users are reportedly engaging with these tools, raising serious concerns about privacy, consent, and the potential harm caused by this technology. Authorities and individuals worldwide are now grappling with the implications of this alarming trend.

    Several celebrities, including Taylor Swift, Jenna Ortega, Alia Bhatt, and Rashmika Mandanna have fallen victim to these deepfakes. What’s even more alarming is that teenage girls are now being targeted, with deepfakes increasingly being used for sextortion schemes.

    These AI-powered bots allow users to alter photos with just a few clicks. This creates deepfakes that remove clothing or depict fabricated sexual activity. According to a recent report by Wired, around 4 million people use these chatbots monthly to produce such deepfakes. This causes significant risks to privacy and safety, particularly for young girls and women.

    Four years ago, deepfake expert Henry Ajder uncovered a Telegram bot designed to “undress” photos of women using AI. Today, the issue has grown rapidly with a new study revealing that at least 50 similar bots are now active on the platform, attracting over 4 million monthly users. These tools allow users to easily generate nude images of real people by editing photos with just a few clicks and some even creating fake images of individuals performing sexual acts.

    WIRED’s analysis of Telegram groups involved in explicit content reveals that at least two bots have over 400,000 monthly users, with another 14 bots attracting more than 100,000 subscribers. Deepfake expert Henry Ajder has called this situation “nightmarish,” emphasizing the serious harm these tools pose, particularly to young girls.

    As per WIRED report, At least 25 Telegram channels support the identified bots, attracting over 3 million members combined. These channels provide updates on new bot features, offer special deals on “tokens” needed to use the bots and often direct users to alternative bots if the original ones are removed by Telegram. Further, the demand for “nudified” websites has become so high that Russian cybercriminals, as 404Media reports, have begun creating fake sites to infect users with malware.

  • Huawei Launches GT5 Smartwatch In India With GNSS Satellite Tracking – Check Price, Specs & More |

    New Delhi: Huawei has officially introduced its GT5 smartwatch in India, offering a perfect blend of luxury and advanced health and fitness features. Exclusively available on Flipkart, the GT5 comes in two sleek sizes—46mm for men and 41mm for women—Catering to both style and functionality.

    What colors do the Huawei GT5 smartwatches come in?

    The smartwatch is available in a variety of colours, with options like Blue, Brown, and Black for men, and White, Gold, and Blue for women.

    Price & Availability

    The smartwatch is priced starting at Rs 18,999, with pre-booking discounts of up to Rs 4,500 available through select bank offers and coupons.

    The GT5 smartwatch features a sleek design and advanced health and fitness tools powered by Huawei’s TruSense technology. It includes accurate GNSS satellite tracking and an emotional well-being assistant to monitor mental health. With over 10,000 watch faces, including 11 dynamic ones that change with the wearer’s mood, it adds a personalized touch.

    The GT5 features a 466 x 466 pixel display, offering clear visuals for both indoor and outdoor activities. Designed with fitness enthusiasts in mind, it offers advanced sports tracking for activities like golf, trail running, and free diving. The smartwatch also includes offline maps and real-time route navigation, making it perfect for outdoor adventures. With water resistance up to 50 meters, it’s also ideal for water-based activities.

    The GT5 works seamlessly with Huawei’s Stay Fit app, allowing users to track calories, meals, and over 100 workout modes. With Activity Rings 2.0, you can monitor your daily activity and set personalized fitness goals. The smartwatch also supports Bluetooth calling, screenshot capture, and is fully compatible with both iOS and Android via the Harmony app.

  • Instagram Launches Customizable ‘Profile Card’ Feature For Its Users; Follow THESE Steps To Create And Share |

    Instagram Profile Card Feature: The Meta-owned Instagram rolled out a new ‘Profile Cards’ feature. The newly rolled-out feature will make it easier for Instagram users and creators to make new friends on the platform.

    Users can also share profiles like a custom virtual business card. It is important to note that Instagram’s customizable profile card feature will have two sides and may include a quick snapshot of your Instagram profile, including a scannable QR code, profile picture, and bio.

    Interestingly, the background of the profile card is also customisable. Instagram Profile Card is available for both regular and business users, enabling professionals to share their cards with brands.

    Ways To Use Instagram Profile Card

    -Users can use their profile card to stay in touch with old friends, make new connections, or find people who share their interests and understand them.

    -Users can express their creativity by regularly updating their bio to showcase current passions, moods, or professional endeavors.

    -Users can keep their profile fresh by changing their profile photo to reflect their personal or creative identity.

    -Users can enhance their profile by selecting a theme song that matches their vibe, adding a unique touch to their digital presence.

    -Users can share their profile card with potential collaborators or brands, presenting their bio and contact information in one sleek, professional package.

    How To Create And Customize Your Instagram Profile Card

    Step 1: Visit your Instagram profile and tap “Share Profile” to begin the process.

    Step 2: Tap the pencil icon in the top-right corner to edit your Profile Card, where you can change the background, add links, or pick a song.

    Step 3: Customize your Profile Card by adjusting elements like the background, links, and song to make it uniquely yours.

    Step 4: Once satisfied, you can share your Profile Card on your Instagram story, save it as an image to use on other platforms, or send it directly to friends.

    Step 5: Use the “Add to Story” option to create an interactive, rotating two-sided display of your Profile Card, showcasing your custom design in a dynamic format.

    How To Share An Instagram Profile Card

    Step 1: Go to your Instagram account and navigate to your profile page.

    Step 2: Tap on the “Share Profile” option located in the profile banner.

    Step 3: You can choose to either download your Profile Card to your device or share it directly.

    Step 4: Share your Profile Card on Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), WhatsApp, Snapchat, or any other platform of your choice.

  • Great News For Online Shoppers! Blinkit Launches 10-Minute Return For Clothes And Footwear |

    New Delhi: Blinkit, the quick commerce platform owned by Zomato has rolled out a new feature for customers. Users across select cities in India can now return or exchange clothing and footwear within just 10 minutes. This will help to resolve common issues like size and fit with ease and speed. This service aims to make online shopping more hassle-free for customers.

    In which cities is Blinkit’s new return and exchange feature for apparel available?

    Blinkit’s new apparel return and exchange feature, after being tested in Delhi-NCR, is now available in Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, and Pune. According to Dhindsa, the company plans to expand the service to even more cities in the near future.

    In a post on Customers can initiate a return/exchange in case of a size or fit issue with the delivered product. This solves a crucial problem of size anxiety for categories like clothing and footwear.”

    Introducing Easy Returns on Blinkit!

    Customers can initiate a return/ exchange in case of a size or fit issue with the delivered product. This solves a crucial problem of size anxiety for categories like clothing and footwear.

    The cool part – return or exchange will happen… pic.twitter.com/iWUcoPaOLj — Albinder Dhindsa (@albinder) October 15, 2024

    He further added “The cool part – return or exchange will happen within 10 minutes of raising a request!” he added.

    The new feature is a strategic move to stay ahead of the growing competition from Zepto, Swiggy’s Instamart, Flipkart’s Minutes, and BigBasket’s BBNow in the quick commerce sector, which is valued at around $5.5 billion. At present, Zepto offers a 72-hour exchange policy for apparel, but it only applies to damaged or defective items.

  • Over 2.75 Lakh URLs Whitelisted By 10,000 Entities After TRAI Guidance |

    New Delhi: Over 10,000 business entities have whitelisted more than 2.75 lakh URLs, after the guidance issued by the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) in August, the telecom regulator said in a release said on Wednesday.

    The TRAI directed all Access Service Providers to stop transmitting messages containing URLs, APKs and OTT links, which are not whitelisted by the Senders. The direction came into effect from October 1.

    Whitelisting a URL is the process of adding a URL to a list of approved resources that can be accessed. Whitelisting is a cybersecurity strategy that helps to protect devices and data from threats like malware, phishing, and hackers.

    “In compliance with TRAI’s August 20, 2024, directive, Access Providers have implemented mandatory whitelisting of URLs, APKs, or OTT links in messages by sending Entities,” the TRAI release added.

    TRAI has introduced stricter measures to combat the spam calls. It includes disconnection of telecom resources for violators. Over 800 entities have been blacklisted, and more than 18 lakh numbers have been disconnected for non-compliance, as per the release.

    Additionally, TRAI has enforced the migration of telemarketing calls using the 140 series to the Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT) platform, improving monitoring and reducing misuse, the release added. Other actions include the blocking of 3.5 lakh unused headers and 12 lakh content templates prone to fraud, further safeguarding consumers, as per the TRAI release.

    Access Providers are in the process of implementing technical solutions to ensure better message traceability. This involves mandating the Senders to define the complete chain of TMs through which messages travel before reaching the consumers. This would ensure that Heads and Content templates of the Senders are not misused by fraudulent elements, the regulator stated.

    With expanded collaboration through the Joint Committee of Regulators (JCoR), TRAI continues to work with agencies like RBI, SEBI, and IRDAI to tighten control over commercial communications and explore future enhancements, as per the regulator.

  • Google Rolls Out Android 15 For Pixel Devices: Check Features, Compatible Phones, And How To Install |

    Android 15 Features: Google has officially rolled out the latest version of its mobile operating system Android 15 for Pixel phones and tablets. The update began rolling out to Pixel phones from the Pixel 6 series and newer. Notably, the latest operating system (OS) was released globally on September 3.

    Furthermore, Google has announced a range of upgrades and new features that will be coming to its Pixel devices, including its phones, smartwatches, earbuds, and tablets, apart from the rollout of Android 15. Apart from this, the tech giant has also announced a list of new features coming to Pixels as part of the October Pixel Drop.

    With the latest Android 15 upgrade, the Pixel devices come with a design changes, a new theft detection lock, private space, and more. Furthermore, Android 15 also includes exclusive functionality for foldable smartphones and devices along with improvements for the camera and authentication. (Also Read: Apple iPad Mini Launched In India With A17 Pro Chip And Apple Intelligence, Starting At Rs 49,900; Check Specs, Availability)

    Android 15 Features:

    -The Anti-Theft Detection Lock feature automatically locks the phone if it detects suspicious activity, such as the removal of the SIM card.

    -The Predictive Back Gesture provides users with a preview of the screen or app they will return to when using the back gesture, reducing navigation confusion.

    -Android 15 improves multitasking by allowing users to pin apps or app pairs in the taskbar, enhancing app management on foldable screens.

    -Camera upgrades include Low Light Boost and in-app controls that improve photography, especially in challenging lighting conditions.

    -Satellite Connectivity will be available on eligible devices, allowing users to send emergency messages via satellite in situations where traditional networks are unavailable.

    October Pixel Drop- What’s New

    -Users can now use Gemini to find specific screenshots within the Pixel Screenshots app through the AI ​​assistant interface.

    -Devices can automatically detect when the camera is being used underwater and enable an Underwater Photography mode for enhanced performance.

    -Night Sight integration allows Pixel smartphone users to take low-light pictures directly within the Instagram app.

    -The Audio Magic Eraser feature reduces distracting sounds in your videos.

    How To Install Android 15 On Google Pixel Devices

    Step 1: Go to the Settings app on your eligible Pixel device and select the System menu.

    Step 2: Within the System menu, scroll down and select Software updates.

    Step 3: Select the System update option and tap on Check for update at the bottom right of the screen.

    Step 4: If the Android 15 update is available, tap on the Download and Install option and follow the instructions.

    Step 5: Your Pixel may restart automatically to install the update.

    Android 15: Compatible Google Pixel Phones

    The Pixel smartphone lineup offers a diverse range of models designed to meet various user preferences and needs. It includes the Google Pixel 6, Google 6 Pro, and Google 6a, followed by the Google Pixel 7 series and the innovative Pixel Fold. (Also Read: Why Meta-owned WhatsApp Bans Over 80 Lakh Indian Accounts?; Find Out Reason Here)

    Adding further, the lineup features the Pixel Tablet for versatile usage. The latest Pixel 8 series continues this trend, providing enhanced performance, cutting-edge camera technology, and unique designs, making the Pixel range an appealing choice for smartphone enthusiasts.

  • Why Meta-owned WhatsApp Bans Over 80 Lakh Indian Accounts?; Find Out Reason Here |

    WhatsApp Accounts Ban In India: Meta-owned WhatsApp is one of the most popular instant messaging apps in India, with millions of users. However, its popularity has also attracted malicious activities and become a hub for bad actors including scammers who use the channel to exploit the app for fraudulent activities.

    To keep the platform safe, WhatsApp has banned more than 80 lakh Indian accounts in a bold move to curb the escalating issue of online scams, safeguarding its platform from malicious activity.

    Why WhatsApp Bans Over 80 Lakh Indian Accounts

    Involvement in illegal activities: Accounts involved in activities that breach local laws are quickly identified, flagged, and deactivated by WhatsApp.

    User complaints: When users report harassment, abuse, or inappropriate behavior, WhatsApp thoroughly investigates and takes necessary action to address the issue.

    Violation of terms of service: From spamming and bulk messaging to scams and spreading misinformation, accounts engaging in these activities face swift action from WhatsApp.

    WhatsApp’s Latest Transparency Report

    Meta-owned messaging platform banned 8,458,000 users in India during August 2024. The report, in compliance with Rule 4(1)(d) and Rule 3A(7) of the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021 , highlights WhatsApp’s heightened efforts to monitor and restrict accounts violating its policies or engaging in illegal activities under Indian law.

    From August 1 to August 31, WhatsApp blocked 8,458,000 Indian accounts, of which 1,661,000 were proactively banned. These accounts were flagged and actioned by WhatsApp’s automated systems, which detect suspicious activities like bulk messaging or unusual patterns, often indicative of scams or abuse, even before any user complaints were filed.

    In terms of user reports, WhatsApp received 10,707 complaints through its grievance mechanism in August 2024. Out of these, the platform took action on 93 complaints. These reports, submitted via email and postal channels directed to the India Grievance Officer, were categorized under ban appeals, account support, safety concerns, and other user-related issues.

  • New Apple iPad Mini With A17 Pro Chip, Apple Intelligence Launched –Check India Price, Pre-Order Details |

    New Delhi: Tech giant Apple has introduced the new iPad mini, driven by the A17 Pro chip and Apple Intelligence. The new iPad mini is available in four finishes, including a new blue and purple.

    It features 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display along with an A17 Pro Chip. Apple says, A17 Pro delivers a huge performance boost for even the most demanding tasks, with a faster CPU and GPU, a 2x faster Neural Engine than the previous-generation iPad mini,1 and support for Apple Intelligence.

    “The versatility and advanced capabilities of the new iPad mini are taken to a whole new level with support for Apple Pencil Pro, opening up entirely new ways to be even more productive and creative. The 12MP wide back camera supports Smart HDR 4 for natural- looking photos with increased dynamic range, and uses machine learning to detect and scan documents right in the Camera app,” Apple added.

    The 12MP wide back camera supports Smart HDR 4 for natural-looking photos with increased dynamic range, and uses machine learning to detect and scan documents right in the Camera app.

    Apple iPad Mini Price, Pre-Order, Availability

    Customers can pre-order the new iPad mini now while it will be available starting October 23. The new iPad mini starts at Rs 49,900 for the Wi-Fi model, and Rs 64,900 for the Wi-Fi + Cellular model. The new iPad mini starts with 128GB of storage — double the storage of the previous generation. The new iPad mini is also available in 256GB and 512GB configurations. For education, the iPad mini starts at Rs 44,900, said the company.

    Apple Pencil Pro is compatible with the new iPad mini. It is available for Rs 11,900, and Rs 10,900 for education. Apple Pencil (USB-C) is available for Rs 7,900, and Rs 6,900 for education.

    According to the company, the first set of Apple Intelligence features will be available in US English this month through a free software update with iPadOS 18.1, and available for iPad with A17 Pro or M1 and later.

    The A17 Pro is a powerful chip that unlocks a number of improvements over the A15 Bionic in the previous-generation iPad mini. With a 6-core CPU — two performance cores and four efficiency cores — the A17 Pro delivers a 30 percent boost in CPU performance, added Apple.

    “In addition to the groundbreaking capabilities of Apple Intelligence, iPadOS 18 brings powerful features that enhance the iPad experience, making it more versatile and intelligent than ever. iPadOS also has advanced frameworks like Core ML that make it easy for developers to tap into the Neural Engine to deliver powerful AI features right on device,” said Apple.

  • JioBharat V3, JioBharat V4 Feature Phones Launched In India, Offer Unlimited Voice Calls And 14GB Data At THIS Price: Check Specs |

    JioBharat V3, JioBharat V4 India Launch: Ahead of Diwali, Reliance Jio has launched the JioBharat V3 and JioBharat V4 feature phones in India at the Indian Mobile Congress 2024. With its sleek, modern design, the JioBharat V3 is a style-focused feature phone. aimed at users who want more than just functionality. It offers a blend of fashion and technology. On the other hand, the JioBharat V4 caters to users who want minimalistic beauty and premium quality.

    The JioBharat V3 and JioBharat V4 feature Jio’s exclusive services, delivering a complete digital experience. Both phones come with JioPay UPI, enabling seamless digital payments.

    Users can access over 455 live TV channels, while JioCinema offers a vast selection of movies, videos, and sports content. Adding further, the JioBharat phones are available with a monthly recharge plan for just Rs 123, which includes unlimited voice calls and 14GB of data.

    JioBharat V3, JioBharat V4 Price In India And Availability

    Both the phones are priced at Rs 1,099. Consumers can purchase both models via all physical phone-selling stores, Amazon, and JioMart.

    JioBharat V3, JioBharat V4 Specifications

    Both models are equipped with a 1000 mAh battery, ensuring long-lasting usage throughout the day. The phones also support expandable storage of up to 128 GB, providing ample space for apps, photos, music, and videos.

    Furthermore, JioChat allows users to stay connected with friends and family through unlimited voice messaging, photo sharing, and group chat options. The JioBharat V3 and JioBharat V4 models also offer support for 23 Indian languages.