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Why Sony PS5 Pro will not be launched in India?

Sony has confirmed that its highly anticipated PlayStation 5 Pro, which was released in select markets on November 7th, will not be available in India due to regulatory issues. In an official statement shared with FE.com, Sony explained, “PS5 Pro will not be available in some countries (which presently includes India) where 6GHz wireless band used in IEEE 802.11be (Wi-Fi 7) has not yet been allowed.”

The PS5 Pro’s dependence on Wi-Fi 7 highlights a broader trend in the tech industry. With the launch of the PS5 Pro, devices compatible with Wi-Fi 7 are anticipated to gain traction in regions where the 6GHz band necessary for Wi-Fi 7 has already been approved. However, for tech enthusiasts in India, regulatory limitations mean they will have to wait until the 6GHz band becomes available in the country.

Sony has announced the release of a limited-edition PlayStation 5 and accessories on November 21st. The special PS5 will be available in a grey color reminiscent of the original PlayStation. This release comes ahead of the 30th anniversary of Sony’s PlayStation, which will be celebrated in December of this year.

The PS5 Pro was unveiled in September of this year and delivers a significant performance enhancement compared to the standard PS5. It includes a GPU that is 67 percent faster, improved memory, and AI-driven upscaling through Sony’s Spectral Super Resolution technology. Additionally, the console is expected to introduce upgrades for ray tracing, faster frame rates, and better storage options, offering players the ultimate gaming experience. Priced at $699.99 (around 59000), it is touted as the company’s most powerful and innovative gaming console.

 

 

 

Realme GT7

Realme GT7 Pro with Snapdragon 8 coming to India!

Realme has announced that it will launch the GT7 Pro in India on November 26th. This smartphone will be the first to feature Qualcomm’s latest Snapdragon 8 Elite System-on-Chip (SoC), which promises enhanced performance. The GT7 Pro is equipped with a 6500mAh battery and supports 120W wired fast charging. This article presents an in-depth look at the remarkable specifications and enticing price of the Realme GT7 Pro. Discover why this smartphone is poised to make waves in the market!

Price and availability.

The starting price for the Realme GT7 Pro in China is CNY 3,699 (approximately ₹43,800) for the 12GB RAM variant with 256GB of storage. The 12GB RAM model with 512GB of storage is priced slightly higher at CNY 3,999 (approximately ₹47,400). For those who need more memory, the 16GB RAM variant with 256GB of storage is available for CNY 3,899 (approximately ₹46,200). The model with 16GB RAM and 512GB of storage costs CNY 4,299 (approximately ₹51,000), while the top-tier variant with 16GB RAM and 1TB of storage is priced at CNY 4,799 (approximately ₹56,900).

Realme GT7 Pro is available in three color options, Mars Exploration Edition, Star Trail Titanium, and Light Domain White (translated from Chinese).

Specifications.

The Realme GT7 Pro boasts a robust design, featuring a glass front and an aluminium frame. Its dimensions are 162.5 x 76.9 x 8.6 mm, and it weighs 222.8 grams. The device comes pre-installed with Android 15, customized with Realme UI 6.0, which includes advanced AI capabilities and enhanced imaging tools. Additionally, it has an IP68 rating for water resistance and an IP69 rating for dust resistance, allowing it to withstand immersion in up to 2 meters of water for 30 minutes.

The GT7 Pro sports a 6.78-inch 2K Eco2 Sky Screen with a refresh rate of up to 120Hz, an impressive 2600Hz instant touch sampling rate, and a peak brightness of 6000 nits. Connectivity options for the GT7 Pro include 5G, dual 4G VoLTE, Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, GPS, GALILEO, Beidou, QZSS, NFC, and a USB Type-C port for fast charging. Additionally, it is equipped with an ultrasonic fingerprint sensor from Qualcomm that is embedded beneath the display, enabling quicker biometric authentication.

The Realme GT7 Pro is equipped with a triple rear camera system, which includes a 50-megapixel Sony primary sensor that features optical image stabilization. This is paired with an 8-megapixel wide-angle camera and a 50-megapixel Sony periscope telephoto camera, offering 3x optical zoom and support for 120x digital zoom. For selfies, the Realme GT7 Pro utilizes a 16-megapixel front camera designed with a punch-hole cutout. Additionally, the phone supports underwater photography, live photos, and AI-enhanced editing features.

The Realme GT7 Pro is set to launch in India on November 26th and will be available for purchase on Amazon India and the official Realme website.

Financial Scams in India and how technology & awareness can save you

The rapid advancement of technology has transformed our lives drastically, bringing with it a range of conveniences and opportunities. However, this rapid advancement has paved the way for many financial scams, especially in India. As technology continues to evolve, the methods deployed by scammers have become increasingly sophisticated as well.  Indian scammers are not scamming people in India but also oversees. Many fake call centers are being run from India in name of support services.

Common Financial Scams in India.

• Phishing Scams: Phishing scams are among India’s most common financial scams. It is a fraudulent attempt to obtain sensitive information, such as passwords or credit card details, by pretending to be trustworthy. Fraudsters use emails, SMS, or social media messages that appear to come from legitimate sources. These messages often contain links to fake websites designed to steal sensitive data.

• Ponzi Schemes: A Ponzi scheme is a type of investment fraud that promises high returns to the investors that come from the contributions of newer investors, creating a cycle. Off late people have been looted of millions in name of promising double triple returns from crypto or share market.

 

 

• Loan Scams: With the increase in demand for personal loans, scammers offer attractive loans online to lure victims. These are fraudulent schemes that trick individuals into providing personal information or paying fees under the guise of obtaining a loan.

• Online Shopping Scams: In recent years, online shopping has become increasingly popular, and fraudsters have started exploiting this by creating fake websites or listings to trick consumers into purchasing non-existent products or services.

• Digital Arrest Scams: Scammers posing as digital law enforcement send fake arrest warrants and notices to pressure victims into interrogation, ultimately deceiving them into transferring substantial amounts of money.

WhatsApp video scams: These are a type of fraud where users are tricked into sharing personal or financial information through video calls. Sometimes, the caller would be  girl with no cloths and they as soon as you pick the video call they will record you with the girls and then black mail you. At times they will impersonate someone else using AI and ask for money.

How Technology Helps

• Two-Factor Authentication(2FA): 2FA is a special feature that adds an extra layer of security. It requires the users to provide two forms of verification, such as a password or a one-time password (OTP) sent to their mobile phone, making unauthorized access very difficult. Never share your OTP with anyone.

• Fraud Detection: Financial institutions and banks are increasingly utilizing algorithms to analyze transaction patterns; this can help flag unusual behaviors and allow banks to intervene to prevent potential fraud. Never buy from a website that doesn’t have SSL (https) secure connection.

• Phishing Detection Tools: Emails and web browsers often come equipped with tools to detect and warn users about potential phishing attempts. These tools analyze links and websites for signs of fraud. Do have a good antivirus installed on mobile and your computer.

• Be alert and don’t be greedy: As they say, there is no free launch in this world. Hence, don’t pay your hard earned money to anyone you hardly know, even if they have given double returns to someone you know. Always work with Apps or organizations that are approved by RBI, SEBI or relevant authorities. Banks and Financial institutions can send real-time alerts and notifications to customers about suspicious transactions or account activity. Many organizations have also developed apps that allow users to report suspected scams easily. Always pay heed to messages you receive. Try not to pick WhatsApp video calls from unknown numbers. You can use WhatsApp setting to silent calls from unknown numbers.

• Report to authorities: Always report any incident immediately  to Banks and cyber authorities. You can do it online as well. 

As financial scams continue to evolve, leveraging technology is crucial in protecting oneself from becoming a victim. By understanding the types of scams, utilizing technological tools, and adopting vigilant practices, individuals can significantly reduce their risk and safeguard their financial well-being. Awareness and education are key in the fight against financial fraud, making it essential for everyone to stay informed and proactive.

Tech Careers in 2024: The Most In-Demand Skills and Roles

The technology industry is evolving rapidly, and advancements in technology are creating demand for jobs in various fields such as artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and cybersecurity. Organizations are increasingly prioritizing data-driven decision-making, automation, and enhanced user experiences. This shift requires a workforce equipped with specialized skills.

Let’s explore the most in-demand tech jobs of 2024 and highlight the skills needed to excel in these positions. Understanding these trends will help you navigate the ever-changing job market and seize opportunities as they arise, whether you are a seasoned professional or new to the technology sector.

 

Data Scientist.

A data scientist is a professional who uses statistical analysis, programming skills, and domain knowledge to derive insights from complex data sets. They play a crucial role in assisting organizations in making data-driven decisions. This involves gathering data from various sources, such as databases, APIs, and external datasets. They process and clean the data, identify trends, and help the organization develop strategies based on these insights. A data scientist earns an average salary of ₹9,73,734 per year in India as of May 2024.

Skills Required.

  • Proficiency in programming languages like Python, R, or SQL for data manipulation and analysis.
  • Strong problem-solving skills, experience with data analysis, and strong industry knowledge.

Cloud Engineer.

A cloud engineer is responsible for designing, implementing, and managing cloud-based systems and services. They develop the architecture for these cloud solutions, which includes infrastructure, networking, and storage, to ensure optimal performance and scalability. Additionally, they monitor cloud systems to identify performance issues and optimize resource usage. The estimated total pay for a cloud engineer is ₹8,00,000 per year, with an average salary of ₹7,00,000 annually.

Skills Required.

  • Strong communication and problem-solving skills.
  • Proficiency in cloud platforms like Amazon Web Services, and Microsoft Azure.
  • Experience with network engineering, cloud computing, and security.

DevOps Engineer.

The term “DevOps” is a combination of the words “development” and “operations.” DevOps professionals are specialized IT experts who bridge the gap between development and operations teams, as the name suggests. Their responsibilities include deploying automated applications, maintaining existing applications, and identifying potential risks and benefits associated with new software and systems. The estimated total pay for a DevOps Engineer is ₹7,90,000 per year, with an average salary of ₹7,15,000 per year.

Skills Required.

  • Skilled in coding languages such as Python, Java, and C++, among others.
  • Familiarity with CI/CD tools and experience with cloud service providers.
  • Analytical, problem-solving, and collaboration skills.

AI/ML Engineer.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) are leading the way in technological innovation. As these fields advance, the demand for AI/ML engineers continues to rise. These professionals focus on developing algorithms that allow computers to learn from data, make predictions, and perform tasks that usually require human intelligence. On average, AI/ML engineers earn around ₹10,00,000 per year.

Skills Required.

  • Proficiency in programming languages such as Python, R, or Java.
  • Familiarity with frameworks and libraries and a strong understanding of mathematical concepts, like statistics and linear algebra.
  • Experience with data manipulation and analysis and good problem-solving skills.

The tech job market in 2024 is very vibrant and full of opportunities. Learning and developing the right skills is important to remain competitive in this dynamic landscape. The technology sector will keep advancing and will create new opportunities within the tech sector. By staying informed and adaptable, individuals can position themselves for success in this dynamic and promising field.

How and Why well-funded Edtech Startups failed in India?

The Edtech sector in India has experienced rapid growth, with new startups being introduced frequently in recent years. This growth can be attributed to the increased usage of smartphones and the growing demand for online education. However, many Edtech startups are facing significant challenges, leading to the closure of numerous companies.

In 2022, several Edtech companies were compelled to make difficult choices. Lido, an Edtech company that provided live online tuition classes, had to close down in February 2022 due to a lack of funds. In April 2022, Unacademy laid off over 600 employees, followed by Vedantu, which laid off over 200 employees. Additionally, over 800 employees resigned from Byju’s Edtech startup within two months after being asked to work from the office. The Edtech industry also accounted for 40% of the layoffs in 2023. Byju’s is now involved in multiple bankruptcy cases in India and abroad.

Let’s delve into the factors that led to the downfall of these heavily financed Edtech startups.

Fierce Competition.

The Edtech sector market has become saturated with nearly 4500 Edtech startups in India. Many of these startups offer similar products and services which led to fierce competition. This increase in competition led to price wars and an increase in customer acquisition costs. Many startups invested heavily in marketing and advertising to reach potential customers, which strained their finances as acquisition costs often outpaced revenue growth, leading to unsustainable business models.

Regulatory Challenges.

The regulatory environment in India can be complex and unpredictable, with strict guidelines governing accreditation and quality assurance. Edtech startups often struggle to navigate these regulations, especially those offering formal degrees and certifications. Changes in these regulations can disrupt ongoing operations and increase operational costs. Failure to comply with these regulations could lead to various legal issues, making it challenging for startups to establish themselves in this oversaturated market.

Ineffective Marketing Strategies.

Effective marketing strategies are essential for Edtech startups to create brand awareness and establish themselves in the market. Many unsuccessful Edtech startups fail to invest in targeted marketing and communicate their value proposition effectively. In the Edtech industry, marketing should concentrate on developing relationships, demonstrating value, and creating a supportive learning environment. Authenticity and credibility are more important than flashy advertisements.

Conclusion.

Edtech is not a company or an industry but a powerful evolving concept. Despite countless failures in this sector, the future of Edtech is still promising, provided companies learn from past mistakes and address these issues through innovation, quality focus, regulatory compliance, and a commitment to user engagement.

Meet Kunal Bahl, new Judge of Shark Tank India

Kunal Bahl, the co-founder of Snapdeal and Titan Capital, has joined the panel for season 4 of Shark Tank India, replacing Deepinder Goyal, the founder and CEO of Zomato. He will join the existing panel of Sharks, including Anupam Mittal, founder and CEO of the People Group; Aman Gupta, co-founder and CEO of boAt Lifestyle; Namita Thapar, executive director at Emcure Pharmaceuticals Limited; and Ritesh Agarwal, the founder and group CEO of OYO. Kunal Bahl has founded and grown numerous technology ventures and has invested in over 250 startups. Let’s delve into the life of Kunal Bahl, the newest shark.

Kunal Bahl was born in India and completed his education at Delhi Public School R.K. Puram in New Delhi. He was later accepted at the University of Pennsylvania, where he pursued the Jerome Fisher Program in Management and Technology, and earned two bachelor’s degrees in Entrepreneurship, Operations, and Information Technology. Additionally, he completed an executive marketing program at the Kellogg School of Management.

Kunal Bahl co-founded Snapdeal, an e-commerce company, in 2010. Later, in 2022, they assumed the group corporate identity of AceVector. AceVector Limited became the holding company for Snapdeal, Unicommerce, and Stellaro brands. Additionally, he co-founded Titan Capital, a prominent early-stage venture capital firm in India that invests the personal funds of Kunal Bahl and Rohit Bansal. Through Titan Capital, he has invested in over 250 startups across various sectors including consumer tech, health tech, fin-tech, SaaS, consumer brands, and B2B services. Some of the companies he has invested in are Ola Cabs, Urban Company, Razorpay, Ofbusiness, and Mamaearth, among others.

He is a promoter of Unicommerce, a leading SaaS company in India that had a successful year. The company was named one of the most highly subscribed IPOs of 2024. Additionally, he was appointed as the chairman of the Confederation of Indian Industry Startup Committee. He has also been a member of the Executive Council at NASSCOM, the National Startup Advisory Council, and the Board of Governors of the Indian Council for Research on International Economic Relations.

He has also been appointed as an Independent Director on the Board of Piramal Enterprises, an Indian conglomerate.

Before becoming a shark, Kunal Bahl appeared on the Prime Video series “Mission Start Ab,” where ten innovators compete for mentorship and funding. Bahl’s entrepreneurial journey includes building and scaling technology ventures, and he has invested in over 250 startups. Although the makers have not announced the premiere date for the new season, Bahl’s unique insights and expertise will be a valuable addition to the show.