Electronics
Apple expands iPhone satellite connectivity with latest OS update
The latest update by Apple makes satellite connectivity much more accessible to people allowing them to remain connected across all the areas. Since the connectivity is available on the device, there is no need to have a satellite terminal.
Most phones sold online end up in grey market
A New Delhi-based retailer aware of the practice said the aggregators, or “cutters”, have hundreds of user accounts on online platforms, operated by a network of young people under their employment who place orders from different accounts to work around platforms’ restrictions on the number of units a customer can buy in one transaction.
5 ways to take care of your Apple and Android phone in monsoon
A waterproof phone case acts as a barrier against rain and splashes. Choose a case with a clear front for easy touch screen access and consider a lanyard for added security. Ths will make sure your phone stays dry and safe even during rains.
Welcome to the era of the AI smartphone
Apple and Google are set to release major software updates this fall, focusing on reinventing smartphones with artificial intelligence. Apple announced enhancements to iOS 18, including a revamped Siri powered by Apple Intelligence. Google introduced Gemini Nano, an AI assistant for Pixel phones. Both companies are aiming to improve messaging capabilities between iPhones and Androids.
Boat's parent brand Imagine Marketing India in talks with investors to raise funds
Imagine Marketing's IPO plans were shelved in 2022. CEO Sameer Mehta said the company has no pressing need of capital and hence is not doing any roadshows to raise funds. “However, there are some inbound interests from a large global fund, sovereign fund and one strategic investor. It’s still early days and we are not desperate,” he said.
Electronics cos charged up for big revenue boost, set to double revenues to $55 billion by FY2027
India's EMS industry revenues are projected to double to $55 billion by FY27, driven by local component sourcing. Apple, Samsung, Lenovo, and other global firms are set to expand operations in India.
CBIC clarifies on display assembly of mobile phones for levy of 10 pc import duty
CBIC lists parts of mobile phone display assembly attracting 10% import duty. Concessional 10% customs duty on integrated display assembly. Circular by CBIC imposes 10% BCD on display assembly for cellular mobile phone manufacturing.
Too hot, too good for e-tailers: ACs, ice creams and beauty products' online sales enjoy the heatwave
Consumers are increasingly turning to online shopping for a variety of products like air conditioners, beauty products, and snacks as heatwaves prompt them to stay indoors, especially during peak afternoon hours. Brands like Voltas and Panasonic have witnessed significant growth in online sales, particularly in the AC category. E-commerce platforms are seeing a surge in demand for large purchases like ACs and coolers, with quick commerce becoming popular for daily essentials. Companies like Parle, Mother Dairy, and Baskin Robbins are experiencing a boost in online sales.
Chinese smartphone brands drive AI proliferation in 2024, led by Oppo
The second half of 2024 will see a surge in generative AI use in smartphones, spearheaded by Chinese brands like Oppo, Nothing, and Vivo. Analysts predict more AI features in lower-priced models, expanding beyond premium flagships. Oppo leads with over 100 AI capabilities and 5,399 AI patents. With AI phones projected to make up 11% of the global market, the segment will see significant growth, particularly in sub-$1000 models, driven by aggressive innovation from Chinese manufacturers.
Smartwatch companies turn to premium buyers looking for upgrade
Leading smartwatch brands like Noise, Boult, and Boat are targeting repeat buyers with premium hardware to increase average selling prices and improve profitability amid declining shipments and intense competition. They are using their own processors, high-end materials, and aesthetic enhancements, while aggressively expanding into offline retail channels. This shift follows a 7.3% drop in Q1 2024 shipments and a fall in ASP to $20.65. The focus is now on offering premium products with better features to attract discerning consumers.
Canon in talks with Indian, global players to supply chip making machine
Canon is exploring partnerships with Indian and global players for semiconductor lithography equipment essential in chip fabrication, aiming to challenge ASML. The company is in talks with semiconductor firms investing in India, including Tata Group and PSMC. Canon also launched Canon Medical Systems India to meet the rising demand for medical equipment, targeting key markets like Chennai, Hyderabad, and Mumbai.
Must Watch
India smartwatch shipments stagnates in Jan-Mar quarter, Apple Watch grows 3 times
Smartwatch shipments in the Indian market stagnated for the first time in the January-March quarter, with top players Fire Boltt, Noise, and Boat experiencing declines in market share. Despite a 15 per cent YoY dip in shipments, Fire Boltt maintained leadership with 28 per cent market share, while Noise remained at 24 per cent and Boat dropped to 15 per cent. Apple Watch shipments grew significantly in the premium segment, with overall market growth expected to decline in 2024.
AC sales may touch new record of 14 million units annual sales in 2024: CEAMA
The blistering heatwave has driven record demand for room air-conditioners, with expected annual sales of around 14 million units, says the Consumer Electronics and Appliances Manufacturers Association (CEAMA). May saw record-breaking AC sales, with projections of 30-40% growth in summer. Energy-efficient models and indigenous manufacturing contribute to the market's robust expansion.
Zoho applies for semiconductor manufacturing facility in India
Software company Zoho, aiming to tap into India's aspirations to become a global semiconductor player, has applied with a partner to set up a semiconductor manufacturing facility in India. Co-founder Sridhar Vembu confirmed the move, citing a stringent evaluation process. The initiative aligns with India's semiconductor manufacturing incentive plan.
NCLT admits personal insolvency plea against Rajkumar Dhoot of Videocon
The NCLT in Mumbai has admitted SBI's application against Rajkumar Dhoot of Videocon Group for a Rs 5,353-crore default by Videocon Industries, where Dhoot was a personal guarantor.
Oppo sets up AI centre in China, rolled out over 100 Gen AI features on phones this year
Chinese smartphone brand Oppo said it has rolled out over 100 generative AI capabilities to its phones this year, and has set up an AI R&D center in China to develop proprietary technologies, having filed over 5,399 patents on the emerging technology worldwide.
