This week in tech, several key developments have made headlines. Apple rolled out exciting Diwali offers, giving consumers the chance to snag their favorite devices at discounted rates just in time for the festive season. Airtel issued an important warning to users about security concerns, urging caution amid rising cyber threats. Meanwhile, Dyson surprised many with job cuts at its Singapore headquarters, just months after assuring employees that such measures wouldn’t impact the region.Here’s a look at the top tech stories of the week.
Apple announced Diwali offer: Free Beats earbuds with iPhone 15 and more
Apple revealed its Diwali offers on iPhones, MacBooks, AirPods and other devices. As announced by Apple, buyers can get up to Rs 10,000 instant cashback during the offer period. In addition, the company is giving Beats Solo buds for free with the purchase of Apple iPhone 15. This limited period festive offer is available until December 31, 2024. To know all the Diwali offers from Apple click here.
CEO Gopal Vittal ‘warns’ Airtel’s 300 million-plus subscribers
Bharti Airtel has unveiled plans to integrate artificial intelligence into its network to tackle the growing issue of spam calls and messages. The AI technology will analyze calls and messages in real-time, notifying users of potential spam risks. Airtel CEO Gopal Vittal highlighted that the system will identify spammers using a range of indicators and is expected to process over 1.5 billion messages and 2.5 billion calls daily. While the system won’t block calls automatically, it will give users the information needed to decide whether to accept or reject a call. Vittal acknowledged the possibility of occasional “false positives,” where legitimate calls may be flagged as spam. However, he also pointed out that the AI solution cannot address spam calls made through over-the-top (OTT) apps like WhatsApp or Telegram, which continue to pose a challenge for the company. Click here to read the complete letter.
Dyson job cuts at headquarters leaves employees ‘in shock’, company issues statement
Dyson has announced job cuts at its Singapore headquarters, with affected employees being notified via email to attend individual meetings. During these meetings, HR representatives informed them that their positions were being eliminated due to redundancy, according to a report by CNA. The layoffs, described by employees as a “surprise,” occurred just three months after Dyson had assured staff that its global headquarters would not be impacted by a previous restructuring, which had led to around 1,000 job cuts in the UK. Click here to read the complete story.
Sony launches new Bravia TV range in India
Sony India has expanded its home entertainment lineup with the launch of its new Bravia TV range at a recent event. Promoted under the tagline “Cinema is Coming Home,” the company aims to enhance the home movie-watching experience by blending advanced technology with a more immersive cinematic feel. The event also featured the introduction of a popular filmmaker, further emphasizing the cinematic focus. The new lineup includes the Bravia 9, 8, 7, and 3 series TVs, though Sony did not disclose pricing or availability details for the range. Click here to read the complete story.
Apple CEO Tim Cook sells 220,000 shares
Apple CEO Tim Cook has sold a substantial portion of his Apple stock, according to a filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The sale, valued at over $50 million, follows Apple’s stock reaching a new all-time high. Cook sold 223,986 shares at an average price of about $227 per share. This brings his total compensation for 2024, including base salary and performance bonuses, to over $70 million.
Apple executives, including Cook, receive company stock as part of their compensation. These stock grants typically vest over time, with a portion available for sale each year. Cook’s recent sale represents a portion of his vested stock options. Click here to read the complete story.
WhatsApp launches two features for video calls
WhatsApp has launched two features for video calling on the app. It is rolling out filters and backgrounds to make video calls, allowing users to change their background or add a filter during a video call “for a more personal touch.” “Conversations on WhatsApp should always feel fun and expressive and today, we’re rolling out filters and backgrounds to make your video calls even more engaging,” the company said. These effects will be available to everyone in the coming weeks. Click here to read the complete story.
Swiggy Instamart launches 24/7 free delivery service in these cities
Swiggy Instamart has become the first quick-commerce platform in Delhi-NCR to offer 24/7 free delivery, just in time for the festive season. The service ensures rapid delivery of thousands of products within 10-15 minutes across Delhi, Gurgaon, and Noida. Customers in these regions can now order groceries, festive treats, electronics, toys, and gifts at any hour without extra delivery fees. This initiative aims to cater to the growing demand for essentials during late hours, especially for last-minute festive preparations. Click here to read the complete story.
Amazon India head Manish Tiwary leaves company
Manish Tiwary, former country head of Amazon India, resigned earlier this year after an eight-and-a-half-year tenure with the e-commerce giant. His last day was September 30, with his responsibilities now handed over to Samir Kumar, effective October 1. Before departing, Tiwary shared a heartfelt farewell message on LinkedIn, reflecting on his time at Amazon. He reminisced about working late nights during the Amazon Great Indian Festival, fueled by “countless cups of coffee,” highlighting the team’s dedication and effort. Click here to read the letter.
Honor Pad X8s Nadal Kids Edition Android tablet launched
The Honor Pad X8s Nadal Kids Edition has officially launched in India. Expanding its product range, the Chinese smartphone maker Hoot has introduced this tablet specifically designed for children. The tablet boasts a durable, shockproof design and includes a silicone case for added protection. It also features an eye comfort mode that reduces blue light exposure, making it safer for children’s eyes. Priced at Rs 13,999, the Honor Pad X8s Nadal Kids Edition is available at a limited-time offer of Rs 10,999. Click here to read the story.
Dreame Technology launches flagship X40 Ultra robot vacuum and mop in India
Dreame Technology, known for its smart home cleaning appliances, has introduced its latest flagship product, the Dreame X40 Ultra, in India. This advanced robot vacuum and mop is equipped with powerful cleaning technologies and smart features, aiming to provide enhanced cleaning performance with minimal effort. Dreame Technology emphasizes that the X40 Ultra is designed for a hands-free experience, reducing the need for human intervention. The Dreame X40 Ultra is available on Amazon at a launch price of Rs 1,29,999, with a special Diwali promotional offer bringing the price down to Rs 99,999. Click here to read the complete story.