Tech

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday underscored the importance of drones in modern warfare, urging their inclusion in India’s defence strategy. Speaking at a Noida facility launch, he lauded India’s progress in domestic drone manufacturing under Aatmanirbhar Bharat

Google DeepMind has rolled out an upgraded image editing model in the Gemini app, offering global users new tools such as photo blending, multi-turn editing, and design mixing. The update ensures likeness accuracy and includes visible and invisible AI watermarks.

ISRO has outlined a four-decade roadmap to establish human presence beyond Earth, including a lunar crew station by 2047, Moon mining, 3D-printed Martian habitats, and upgraded rockets capable of carrying 150-tonne payloads, paving the way for Mars landings

Google has launched Gemini 2.5 Flash Image, its most advanced AI image model, offering character consistency, natural language-based edits, and multi-image fusion. Available via the Gemini API and Google AI Studio, the model includes invisible watermarks and developer-focused tools.

Apple and Samsung have sent cease-and-desist notices to Xiaomi over advertisements mocking their premium smartphones, including the iPhone 16 Pro Max and Galaxy models. The companies argue Xiaomi’s campaigns risk damaging brand reputation in India’s fiercely competitive premium market

Google Translate has introduced AI-powered live translation and personalized language-learning tools. Users can now hold real-time conversations in more than 70 languages and practice speaking or listening with tailored scenarios, with the features rolling out on Android and iOS.

WhatsApp has introduced Writing Help, an AI-powered feature that suggests message rewrites in different tones while ensuring privacy through Meta’s Private Processing technology. Initially rolling out in English across select countries, it will expand to more languages later this year.

Apple has announced its next major event for September 9 at the Steve Jobs Theater in California, where it is expected to unveil the iPhone 17 lineup, including a new ultra-slim iPhone 17 Air. Alongside the new iPhones, updates to Apple Watch Series 11, Ultra 3, SE 3, and AirPods Pro 3 are anticipated.

A breakthrough study from Hyderabad’s CCMB has revealed a novel cell mechanism, dubbed "Programmed Cell Revival", that enables damaged cells to recover and regenerate tissues in various organisms.

Researchers at IIT Madras have developed a low-cost chip-based device that rapidly detects bacterial resistance to antibiotics within three hours. The innovation promises faster diagnosis, reduced misuse of antibiotics, and improved treatment options, particularly for rural healthcare facilities

A UK study finds genetic testing of IVF embryos (PGT-A) can boost success rates in women aged 35–42, helping them conceive faster and reducing the emotional toll of repeated unsuccessful cycles.

SpaceX postponed the 10th test flight of its Starship rocket minutes before launch due to a ground systems issue. The delay follows earlier failures in Flights 7, 8, and 9. Starship is intended for NASA’s Artemis 3 lunar mission and future Mars exploration.

ISRO successfully conducted the first Integrated Air Drop Test (IADT-01) of the Gaganyaan mission’s parachute system near Sriharikota, validating a key safety mechanism for crew module recovery. The project, India’s first human spaceflight programme, will also include precursor unmanned missions

BRS working president KT Rama Rao earned nationwide praise for endorsing Hyderabad as OpenAI’s first India base, despite being in the opposition. Netizens hailed his non-partisan approach, calling it a rare example of state-first leadership in Indian politics.

OpenAI has cautioned against unauthorised opportunities to invest in the company, including SPVs, tokenised interests, and forward contracts. The US-based firm stressed that transfers without written consent may violate its rules and US securities laws.

Google Photos now supports conversational AI editing, letting users describe changes in text or voice for quick, customized results. Launching first on Pixel 10 in the U.S., the update also integrates C2PA Content Credentials for greater transparency in AI-generated images.

Google Search’s AI Mode gets a major upgrade with task-focused agentic capabilities, personalized recommendations, and link sharing. Initially rolling out in the U.S., it is also expanding to 180+ countries, making AI-powered search more widely accessible worldwide.

vivo marked its 30th anniversary with the launch of its first mixed reality headset, the Vision Discovery Edition, and a revamped imaging strategy. The lightweight device offers 8K visuals, advanced gesture controls, and runs on the Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2+ Gen 21 platform.

Nikon has unveiled the NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II, a full-frame mirrorless standard zoom lens with the fastest autofocus in Nikon’s history and the lightest weight in its class, aimed at professionals and enthusiasts seeking high performance in diverse conditions.

An indigenously developed drone - Skyswift 56, by Marut Drones was granted DGCA certification, The drone is useful for security agencies as it can be launched within two minutes and packed into a backpack.

Samsung unveiled its new Odyssey G7 monitors at Gamescom 2025, featuring large-screen options, advanced gaming features, and HDR performance. The company also expanded its glasses-free 3D gaming ecosystem with new partnerships, while showcasing Odyssey OLED monitors with Blizzard and Pearl Abyss.

Sony has revised PlayStation 5 prices in the United States, effective August 21, due to economic pressures. The PS5 will cost $549.99, the Digital Edition $499.99, and the PS5 Pro $749.99, while accessories remain unchanged.

Google launches Pixel Watch 4 with a redesigned domed display, longer battery life, standalone satellite communication, advanced health and fitness tracking, and on-wrist Gemini AI integration. The smartwatch is available for preorder today, with stores stocking from October 9.

Samsung TV Plus has partnered with ETV Network to add four new channels—ETV News, ETV Josh, ETV Music, and ETV Comedy—expanding its regional FAST content offerings and strengthening access to high-quality Telugu entertainment for Indian audiences.