Panasonic’s Direct-to-Consumer Platform Sees 160percentage Surge in Visitors Post Launch

New Delhi, 25 July 2024: Panasonic Life Solutions India, a leading diversified technology company, achieved a milestone as its authorized Direct-to-Consumer (D2C) platform becomes one of the fastest-growing in consumer electronics and appliances sector in India. Since its launch in September 2022, the platform has experienced remarkable growth, with online visitors surging by 160%, surpassing 4 million visitors in the past year alone. With the current season’s high demand, the platform has recorded four-fold growth over last year, quarter on quarter.

“The rapid expansion of our authorized D2C platform demonstrates customers trust in the brand, Panasonic’s strong commitment to embracing digital transformation, while significantly enhancing and personalizing customer experiences,” said Mr. Sushil Grover Business Chief & Director – E-Commerce, D2C (e-store) Business, Brand & Marketing Communication, Panasonic Life Solutions India. “The platform is intuitive, easy to navigate, and represents the brand identity that meets our customers’ aspirational world. We have been continuously expanding our product offerings on the platform with the aim of providing the widest choice to our customers backed with proven reliability of Japanese technology. We recently launched Lumix cameras, and the response was tremendous. We sold cameras for over 2.5 lacs average price, which confirms our notion that consumers are moving toward premiumization. We are now focused to enhance product availability and service coverage across more cities backed with an efficient supply chain support.”

Currently, the platform is selling LED, Audio, Large & Small Appliances, Cameras, Lenses, Accessories and Lifestyle products attracting 13% repeat customers, with the highest user and conversion rates coming from the 25-34 age bracket followed by the Gen Z audience. Panasonic continues to broaden its lineup of high-end products, offering distinctive benefits in important categories such as bottom-mounted refrigerators, front-load washing machines and air conditioners. This year, they also launched India’s first Matter-enabled air conditioners that are powered by Miraie, marking a significant advancement in the realm of smart home technology.

Moreover, Panasonic’s authorized D2C online e-store provides a range of consumer financing options and product exchange programs aimed at broadening accessibility to high-value purchases. Furthermore, customers benefit from a convenient ‘service-on-a-click’ feature for registering service requests such as installation, repairs, or purchasing extended warranties for both new and existing products. The recent introduction of the ‘Call-Me-Back’ initiative has also been met with enthusiastic reception, providing customers with an improved personalized experience to address their inquiries regarding purchases or services.

XLRI Jamshedpur Annual Digital Transformation Conclave

25th July 2024: XLRI Jamshedpur is excited to announce its upcoming conclave, themed “Data-Driven Transformation in Consumer World,” a dynamic event focused on the revolutionary impact of data in reshaping consumer experiences and business operations. As data continues to emerge as the new currency in the modern marketplace, this conclave aims to explore how data-driven strategies are propelling businesses toward innovation and excellence.

The event will be facilitated by Sradhamayee Nayak, Kavya Agarwal, Himanshi, Rahul Rathnam, Shubham Sharma and Talha Anjum Jamil and XLRI PGDM (GM) Student Conclave Committee.

ReEnvision, centred around the theme “Data-driven transformation in consumer world,” promises to be a melting pot of ideas and strategies for thriving in India’s emerging data-driven landscape. Attendees can look forward to insightful discussions led by industry experts, who will shed light on the intricacies of digital transformation, understanding the evolving mindset of younger generations, and mastering the art of leveraging data and technology to excel in their respective fields. ReEnvision is set to offer a blend of practical advice, innovative strategies, and forward-thinking perspectives on digital transformation, making it an unmissable event for anyone interested in the future of a tech-driven India.

Organized by the Conclave Committee of XLRI PGDM(GM), the ReEnvision Conclave serves as a vibrant platform to highlight and honour innovative leaders who are actively forging new paths in the business world. The event is designed to delve into the journeys of these trailblazers through engaging panel discussions and interactive sessions. It aims to unravel the secrets behind their successes, offering valuable insights into the nuances of building ground-breaking transformations and emphasizing the critical importance for organizations to be agile and future-ready in an ever- evolving business landscape. Attendees will be presented with a unique opportunity to engage with both speakers and peers, fostering an environment of shared learning in their own pursuit.

The day will commence with a grand inauguration helmed with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp and Inaugural address by Director Fr. S George, S J, followed by an address by Fr. Donald D’Silva, S.J., Dean Administration & Finance, XLRI Jamshedpur.

The first panel discussion of the conclave, “Strategic Partnerships and Alliances: Harnessing Digital Tools for Competitive Collaboration” brings together a panel of esteemed leaders renowned for their innovative strategic approaches in the business world. The session will feature insights from Mr. Ashish Pandey, Global CIO, CDTO, CDIO, Dabur India Limited; Mr. Ashish Ranjan, Chief Digital Officer, National Engineering Industries Ltd., Mr. Rajesh Dogra, Chief Customer Experience Officer, Air India Limited; Mr.  Ramasubramaniam S, Senior Vice President, Collabera Digital; and Mr. Girish Dangayach, Chief Digital Officer, SK Finance Limited. Moderated by Amith Shaju, a student at XLRI Jamshedpur, the panel seeks for each speaker to share their unique perspectives and strategies that have propelled their organizations to transformational growth and have kept up with fast-moving business landscapes. This panel promises to be a wealth of practical advice and wisdom, offering attendees a rare glimpse into the minds of those who have successfully navigated the complex terrain of building and sustaining profitable ventures.

Delving into the burgeoning realm of the e-commerce and consumer goods industry, the next panel at our conclave explores “Data Analytics: Contribution to Consumer Goods Industry and E- Commerce.” This session will feature a panel of leaders who are at the forefront of this paradigm shift. Mr. Satyaki Mookerjee, Chief Digital Officer, Ceat; Mr. Digvijay Ghosh, Consumer Product & Retail Sector & Digital Commerce- Partner, EY-Parthenon; Mr. Nitin Dhingra, Chief Digital Officer, Hindware Limited; Mr. Ravi Kumar, Chief Digital Officer, Exide Industries Limited and Mr. Bhargab Dutta, Chief Digital Officer, Century Ply will come together to offer an in-depth look into how they are reshaping the Indian digital landscape. Moderated by Madhumeta Rajkumar, a student at XLRI Jamshedpur, this session promises to offer a fresh outlook on the evolving dynamics of data analytics in the Indian context, particularly among Gen Z and Millennials, highlighting how their innovative thinking is catalysing change in the consumer goods and e-commerce systems.

Wrapping up the day’s insightful discussions, the panel “Leveraging Data Analytics for Marketing “ will bring a fresh perspective on brand building in the modern era. Mr. Vikrant Bhargava, Chief Digital Officer, inMorphis, brings his extensive experience to the table. Ms. Ipshita Ghosh, Managing Director, Accenture; adds her unique insights on integrating data analytics with marketing. Mr. Sushil Pradhan, Executive Director and COO representing MitKat Advisory, shares his expertise in creating compelling market trends. Mr. Sunil Palrecha, Chief Digital Officer, Wissen Technology, will share his expertise in navigation of challenges throughout his journey. Lastly, Mr. Amreesh Kher, Chief Business Officer, Tata Digital joins the panel to discuss the intersection of data analytics and marketing. The session will be moderated by Preeti Rawat, a student at XLRI Jamshedpur, ensuring a focused and engaging discussion.

The eagerly awaited Digital Conclave hosted by the PGDM-GM Batch of 2024-25 – ReEnvision 2024 – stands as a testament to the vibrancy and dynamism of India’s changing business landscape. From the insightful opening discussions to the thought-provoking closing panel, each session of our digital transformation conclave has been carefully curated to inspire, educate and empower the current and future leaders of India’s business world.

From the insightful opening discussions to the thought-provoking closing panel, each session has been carefully curated to inspire, educate and empower the current and future leaders of India’s business world. As you join us at the conclave, you’ll not only gain valuable knowledge and insights from our esteemed speakers but also forge meaningful connections and draw inspiration to chart your own path in India’s dynamic digital transformation journey. We are beyond grateful for the incredible support for our Annual Digital Transformation Conclave- ReEnvision 3.0.

A big Thank You to Urban Farm Produce, Jamshedpur for extending their support and being a sponsor for the event. They are dedicated to providing organic, fresh, high-quality produce while creating sustainable livelihoods and help city dwellers reconnect with traditional food culture.

AI assistant shows great promise in cataract care pathway

Dora, an AI-powered automated speech system, can call patients, ask them questions, comprehend their responses, and recognise with precision which ones call for a clinical review. Researchers from Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, Oxford University Hospitals (OUH) NHS Foundation Trust, and Newcastle University conducted the study, which was published in the open access journal eClinicalMedicine of The Lancet. The study included more than 200 patients who had recently undergone cataract surgery, the most common procedure done by the NHS. Three weeks following the procedure, Dora called to ask them to perform a follow-up evaluation, which was observed by an ophthalmologist specifically for the study. Researchers evaluated the independent judgements on the clinical relevance of five symptoms and whether the patient needed more evaluation made by Dora and the supervising ophthalmologist. Dora’s choices throughout the trial closely matched those made by the physicians.

The study’s co-principal investigator, Newcastle University Professor of Digital Health and Clinical AI, Edward Meinert, led the acceptability assessment. He said: “The way in which patients responded to the AI system suggests that it may be expanded and used in other clinical paths, potentially saving the NHS time and money. The study assessed the cost impact of Dora in comparison to traditional treatment, as well as its usability and acceptance to patients. The AI follow-up was accepted by the majority of participants, however some expressed worry about the absence of a “human element” in situations with problems.”

Co-Principal Investigator at OUH and honorary consultant ophthalmologist Kanmin Xue stated: “The Dora system is able to call patients autonomously by telephone and conduct a conversation that gathers the key information needed to determine whether a patient is recovering well or requires further medical assessment.” Those that required further clinical input were successfully identified and given a higher priority. Thousands of patients at OUH have had their post-cataract surgery assessments conducted using an updated version of Dora, which was implemented following the trial. We are now using it for pre-operative evaluations as well, in which Dora asks the patient a series of screening questions, one of which is whether or not they want surgery for their cataract. The information is recorded in our electronic health records, which expedites the in-person pre-assessment guided by a nurse. Compared to traditional care, using this telemedicine follow-up examination was projected to have saved each patient about £35 in costs. “

Health Innovation Oxford and Thames Valley provided assistance for the development of Dora by the Oxford spin-out business Ufonia. These organisations conducted a feasibility study, examined physician comments, and assessed the financial benefits of integrating Dora into the post-operative patient route. CEO of Ufonia, Dr Nick de Pennington, stated: “This research demonstrates unequivocally Dora’s high accuracy in identifying patients who require human clinical input.” We are currently extending Dora’s “Artificial Clinical Intelligence” throughout the National Health Service’s and other countries’ eye care pathways. In terms of cost- effectiveness, acceptability, and safety, the system provides a lot of advantages. In addition, it  helps hospitals lower their carbon impact, and most significantly, it makes healthcare more accessible to patients.”

The National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) Artificial Intelligence in Health and Care Award is providing funding for this study.

B-Square to Implement 5th Generation Pothera ERP for Zambia’s Surya Group

New Delhi, July 25th, 2024: B-Square Solutions, the one-stop IT partner which has been successfully implementing a bouquet of diverse IT solutions and services all over the world for the last 20 years has announced bagging the contract from Surya Group of Companies, a Zambia-based conglomerate with diverse business interest ranging from Farms, to Breweries, to Logistics, Packaging, Infrastructure, Energy and Biofuels.

Surya Group, a dynamic and progressive organization, identified opportunities to enhance their operational efficiency and growth potential. To streamline processes, improve communication and gain real-time updates into the status of tasks and activities, they realised that an ERP Solution was the best answer which could help them achieve not only these, but one which is capable of automating these processes, ensuring accuracy and compliance and operating efficiently with minimal manual intervention. Following a thorough evaluation Pothera ERP emerged as the ideal solution to meet Surya Group’s specific requirements.

With a proven track record of delivering cutting-edge diverse IT solutions to varied sectors,
B-Square did complete project analysis of all business verticals and now customizing its 5th Generation ERP Solution, Pothera ERP, to enable Surya Group enhance overall business operations efficiency and its individual business entities.

Commenting on B-Square’s association with Surya Group, Payal Nambiar, Founder & Director, B-Square Group, says, “We are delighted to partner with Surya Group, a prominent and diverse organization. Surya Group is a revered name in the industry, known for its innovation, excellence, and unwavering commitment to success. To be entrusted with this project is a true honor, and we are humbled by the faith they have placed in our capabilities. Our tailored solutions will streamline their entire operations across all six-business entities. Our team is eager to leverage their expertise and cutting-edge technology to deliver solutions that will elevate Surya Group’s operations to new heights. This partnership is a testament to the power of collaboration and the transformative impact that can be achieved when two industry leaders come together. We are confident that our synergistic efforts will result in ground breaking outcomes, setting new benchmarks in the industry and paving the way for a future filled with endless possibilities”.

Fischer Medical Ventures Ltd and Malaysia’s Health Digital Technologies firm up

Fischer Medical Ventures Ltd (formerly known as Fischer Chemic Limited), through its wholly owned subsidiary Time Medical International Ventures (India) Private Limited formalises its investment in Health Digital Technologies (HDT), joining their existing investors Samsung Ventures and sovereign wealth fund of Malaysia, Khazanah (through MTDC), to bring their tele-consultation platform and e-prescription pharmacy, i.e. DoctorOnCall beyond Malaysia market.

Fischer Medical Ventures Ltd (Fischer MV) is known for its affordable, and accessible medical diagnostic and imaging technologies, by leveraging cutting-edge innovations and AI-powered software solutions in healthcare. As the first company to indigenously manufacture high- quality Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) systems in India and owning a diverse portfolio of breakthrough diagnostic solutions, Fischer MV envision to grow its telehealth offerings globally with HDT.

HDT is leading Malaysia’s digital healthcare evolution through DoctorOnCall, the nation’s pioneering integrated platform offering a comprehensive healthcare ecosystem, seamlessly merging teleconsultations, online pharmacy services, a dynamic health services marketplace, cutting-edge insurance solutions, and bespoke corporate medical concierge services, all in 1 platform. At the core of their innovation lies the Digital Health Exchange (DHX) platform, a game-changing solution that aggregates healthcare services from multiple providers, ensuring unparalleled service integration across the sector. Through technological innovation, HDT bridges the gap between patients, healthcare providers, and insurers, setting new benchmarks in accessibility, efficiency, and quality care in the digital age.

With a robust infrastructure encompassing more than 500 GP clinics network, engaging over 1.9 million registered users, and supporting more than 20 million annual visits, DoctorOnCall platform has redefined healthcare accessibility and convenience, with an intuitive interface that integrates teleconsultations, online pharmacy services, health services bookings, and bespoke medical concierge services. From frictionless know-your- customer (KYC) processes to robust verification protocols, every interaction prioritizes security and user convenience. Whether it is selecting prescription medications, consulting with physicians, or managing health packages, users benefit from a streamlined experience in just three clicks. HDT’s B2B strategy involves providing HealthTech solutions to hospitals, life sciences companies, and a vast insurance and corporate network including Allianz, AIA, FWD, Generali, Etiqa, Great Eastern and Prudential. Their commitment to regulatory compliance, data privacy, and security, ensures a seamless user experience and lead to its achievement of “Forbes Asia 100 to watch”.

The digital health industry in Malaysia is experiencing rapid growth, projected to grow at a CAGR of approximately 15-25% over the next five years . Malaysia healthcare market is fuelled by increasing adoption of telehealth, online pharmacy, and doctor booking services, as well as government initiatives to digitize healthcare, leading HDT to win a contract with Malayia’s largest Telco CelcomDigi to roll out digital healthcare services to more than 14,000 independent GPs that will enlarge DoctorOnCall’s network for delivery of care@home initiative and another contract to roll out “Dengue Test” in the country through their vast GP network. Leveraging the triumph of their DoctorOnCall platform, HDT is also poised for exponential growth beyond Malaysia, making inroads to lead in Southeast Asia with a recent contract win from a hospital group in Saudi Arabia and actively expanding in Singapore and Indonesia, benefiting from the rising medical tourism in Malaysia.

Commenting on the investment, Mr. Ravindran Govindan, Executive Chairman & MD of Fischer MV states: “DoctorOnCall is EBITA-positive, proving the platform is relevant in today’s market. Their growth strategy that leverages cutting-edge technology and deep market insights is aligned with Fischer MV, particularly their promising Telemedicine marketplace, AI-driven ecosystem that connects patients, healthcare providers, and insurers seamlessly. Our collaboration aims to expand their B2C markets as well as to acquire more corporate clients and insurance providers globally by leveraging on Fischer MV’s strong sales network and deep expertise in digital health across ASEAN, India, and the Middle East.”

Mr. Maran Virumandi, CEO of Health Digital Technologies shares his excitement with the collaboration: “Fischer MV’s funding and marketing support propel us toward our goal to expand our cross-border scalability, and global footprint. Fischer MV will bring in invaluable expertise and innovation to the table and we look forward to leverage this partnership to enhance DoctorOnCall’s HealthTech capabilities and expand our combined reach together to revolutionize the healthcare landscape, making quality healthcare more accessible to all.”

This strategic partnership between Fischer MV and HDT exemplifies a joint commitment to innovation, accessibility, and excellence in digital healthcare delivery, setting a new benchmark for the industry globally, with a commitment to innovation, affordability, and quality.

Appdome Tackles Geo-Fraud with More Defenses for Mobile Apps

India, July 24, 2024 Appdome, the mobile app economy’s one-stop shop for mobile defense, today announced it has enhanced its award-winning Geo-Fraud Detection service to include two new defenses: Geo-Location Fencing and Geo DeSync Attack Detection. Combined with other Geo-Compliance features available on the Appdome platform, mobile app developers and enterprises can eliminate location-based fraud, ensure geo-compliance and deliver location relevant user experiences in mobile apps free from location spoofing, fake location, VPNs, Fake GPS Apps and other threats.

Geo-fencing is essential in finance apps and other regulated industries that need to meet Know Your Customer (KYC) and other compliance mandates, such as the US Federal Financial Institutions Examination Council (FFIEC), EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), and the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) requirements. Geo-fencing enables mobile app developers to restrict or limit app access on a country or regional level, ensuring that operations are compliant with local laws and regulations.

A Geo Desync Attack is a cyber-attack that intentionally creates mismatches in location data on a mobile device. By manipulating GPS coordinates, altering the time zone settings, and falsifying accelerometer readings, attackers can deceive location-based services and security systems. This type of attack can lead to inaccurate tracking, unauthorized access, and potential breaches of security protocols, undermining the integrity of location-dependent applications and services.

“Detecting geo related fraud is a top priority in today’s mobile app economy. Attackers are increasingly using location spoofing to avoid compliance, for example,” said Eric Newcomer, CTO and Principal Analyst at Intellyx. “Mobile apps rely on accurate location for their services and are increasingly required to confirm device location to maintain trust. Appdome’s mobile Geo Compliance service reduces developer complexity for implementing advanced geo-compliance security features.”

Unlike legacy geo compliance offerings that rely on proprietary, costly, and vendor-built geo service networks, the Appdome Geo Compliance solution zeros in on protecting the mobile device’s built-in location services and ensures these services have not been abused or tampered with. Appdome’s approach eliminates the need for third-party networks, SDKs, complex server-based implementations and does not require third-party monthly usage fees, allowing the enforcement to work even if the device is not network-connected.

“Offering a broad range of mobile Geo Compliance features under a single pane of glass with other security and anti-fraud defenses is a game changer,” said Tom Tovar, co-creator and CEO of Appdome. “These added Geo-Fraud defenses showcase how the Appdome platform is uniquely extensible, and allows brands, developers and enterprises alike to solve multiple mobile app defense objectives simultaneously in the same automated workflow.”

The full Appdome Mobile Geo-Compliance solution puts an end to geo-fraud by detecting fake location, fake GPS apps, fraudulent location, detect VPN, no SIM (fake device), teleportation, Geo DeSync and other attacks. Customers simply select the Geo-Compliance features needed in any Android & iOS apps and initiate the build command from CI/CD or using the Appdome Platform’s “Build My App” button. Appdome’s patented technology uses machine learning to code the defenses into each application, so mobile developers don’t have to.

“Compliance was the early driver for our geo-fraud solution, but now there’s so much more customers are getting out of it,” said Chris Roeckl, Chief Product Officer of Appdome. “Stopping location-fraud and ensuring valid, real location in mobile applications is universal across every Android & iOS app, whether it’s a streaming, dating, restaurant, retail, gig economy or other app. True location is what we deliver in these mobile apps.”

The Appdome Geo-Compliance solution is available in multiple enforcement modes including advanced telemetry and customized responses or workflows when geo compliance threats are detected, and monitoring geo-fraud attacks via the Appdome ThreatScope™ Mobile XDR, either before or after the deployment of geo-location defenses via the Appdome platform.

Trane Launches Climate Changer Magicube Air Handling Unit in Asia Pacific

Bengaluru, July 24, 2024 Trane®, a strategic brand of Trane Technologies , a global climate innovator, announced the launch of the revolutionary Climate Changer Magicube (CLCM) air handling unit to address the challenges associated with the installation and maintenance of air conditioning equipment in modern buildings. Featuring an innovative modular design, the CLCM unit simplifies installation and maintenance processes significantly, which also effectively reduces the cost associated with constructing, operating and maintaining the building’s air-conditioning system, and creates a clean and comfortable environment with high-quality air for users.

During the installation of air handling unit in mixed-development and office buildings, it is often to encounter the issue of needing to dis-assemble and re-assemble the unit due to limited space. However, traditional air handling units are often complex to dis-assemble and re-assemble, making the process time-consuming and labor-intensive. Additionally, this can potentially damage the unit and lead to problems like air and heat leakages.

“With its compact individual modules, the innovative CLCM unit is easy to move and assemble on-site, making it especially suitable for mixed-development and office buildings with limited installation space that require multiple reassemblies,” said Bruce Gu, vice president of Engineering and Technology, Trane Technologies Asia Pacific. “Building on Trane’s century-long history of climate control technology, we expect this new product to continuously provide our customers with more flexible and efficient air conditioning solutions.”

Customize air conditioning solutions with flexible Magicube combinations

This new product features a unique modular connecting design that allows for flexible combinations: side-by-side combination to increase air volume; front-to-back combination to expand functionality. This innovative design enables customers to tailor the system according to their specific demand, providing better customization experience. Another significant highlight is its standardized design. All models are equipped with the fans, filters and other common components of standard sizes. Combined with the universal coil for left-hand and right-hand configurations and a pull-out coil design, the coil connection side can be flexibly adjusted on-site, making installation and maintenance more convenient. This not only expands the application range of the product, but also frees the customers from a large stock of spare parts. In addition, this product series is also smaller in size compared to traditional air conditioning units, which can further save costs for the customers.

For the appearance design, CLCM unit features a new casing made of high-strength frames. This robust casing not only prevents damage during transportation and re-assembly, which may lead to issues like air leakage and heat transfer, but also ensures the efficient performance with a low thermal transmittance. Additionally, the unit is equipped with a step-shape panel design that further reduces the air leakage rate and the risk of cold bridge condensation with multiple sealing measures, thereby improving the overall performance, quality and reliability of the product. Moreover, the interior of the new casing structure is smoother and cleaner, making it less prone to dust accumulation and easier to maintain.

In terms of energy conservation and environmental protection, Trane has set a higher benchmark with a forward-looking vision. The CLCM unit series is equipped with EC fans that offer superior economic value. Under full-load operation, these fans can save energy by 15%-30% compared with ordinary fans using AC motors, achieving the market-leading Grade1 of Grade 2 energy efficiency level.

In addition, the CLCM unit innovatively introduces a QR code solution for on-site assembly. Upon arrival at the installation site, the customer’s personnel can simply scan the QR code on the product to access 3D installation instructions that provides a clear display of sorting information and installation sequence, enabling easy assembly of the equipment even without professional guidance. This significantly improves the efficiency and quality of the installation process.

Ensure healthy air with dual-mode sterilization

Given the significant rise in concern for health and environmental protection in recent years, the CLCM series is specially designed with a dual-mode system. This system includes a built-in high-voltage electrostatic sterilization device and a plug-in photocatalyst sterilization device, ensuring users enjoy better air quality.

In the high-voltage electrostatic sterilization mode, tiny particle pollutants smaller than 0.01 micron will be adsorbed on the dust collection plate by the energy instantly released from the high-voltage charge. This mode can achieve a PM2.5 purification rate of 99% and a sterilization rate of 99.6% within one hour, and it can eliminate 99% of influenza virus within two hours, effectively improving indoor air quality.

Additionally, in the plug-in photocatalytic sterilization mode, the CLCM unit can degrade organic pollutants such as formaldehyde, benzene and ammonia. It can achieve a disinfection rate of up to 99.99%, a sterilization rate of up to 99.68%, and a TVOC purification rate of 78.9% within two hours. Furthermore, negative oxygen ions are released during the sterilization process to further purify the air.

OnePlus Announces Metalverse Pop-Up Events for Exclusive OnePlus Nord 4 Experience in India

Bengaluru, 23rd June 2024: OnePlus, the global technology brand, is set to host exciting pop-up events in line with its recent Summer Launch event. The pop-up events, titled the OnePlus Metalverse, will be held in Bengaluru and Hyderabad. This highly anticipated event offers the OnePlus India community a unique opportunity to get an exclusive first look at the newly launched OnePlus Nord 4 device.

The OnePlus Metalverse will take place from 26th – 28th July, commencing atp 11am till 9m, at the popular OnePlus Boulevard in Bengaluru and the OnePlus Nizam Palace in Hyderabad. The OnePlus Metalverse is designed to bring together the India-wide community and tech enthusiasts in an immersive and interactive environment. Attendees will have the chance to explore the latest innovations from OnePlus, engage in the exclusive hands-on experience with the OnePlus Nord 4 and also enjoy the valuable opportunity to purchase the new device, along with gaining assured, exclusive OnePlus merchandise.

The OnePlus Metalverse pop-up event will also witness the presence of renowned celebrities, such as Kannan Gill, the renowned standup comedian, who will be gracing the pop-up event at the OnePlus Boulevard, Bengaluru on July 26th , followed by Srinidhi Shetty, the famous KGF movie star who will be gracing the event on July 27th, as well as SreeLeela, the popular Telugu cinema celebrity will be present at OnePlus Nizam Palace Hyderabad on July 27th. These popular celebs will also help unbox the OnePlus Nord 4 for select customers who purchase the devices at the event.

Addressing the exciting pop-up event underway, Ishita Grover, Director of Marketing, OnePlus India shared, “We are thrilled to host the OnePlus Metalverse pop-up event in Bangalore and Hyderabad, providing our India community with the exclusive opportunity to experience the brand new Nord 4 device. This event is a celebration of our commitment to innovation and our dedication to our loyal community. It’s an exciting moment for the OnePlus community in India, as we come together to explore OnePlus’ cutting-edge technology and share our passion for the latest tech developments.

We can’t wait to see our community members at the OnePlus Metalverse and make this a memorable experience for everyone.”

International Workshop on Hydrokinetic Technology Held at IIT Roorkee

July 22, 2024:  The Department of Hydro and Renewable Energy at Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee (IIT Roorkee successfully hosted an international workshop on hydrokinetic technology as part of its Centre of Excellence R&D initiative. This event featured over 45 participants from across India, with four distinguished international speakers from Canada, Norway, Malaysia, and Germany joining online to present their pioneering research.

Image - 0002 - International Workshop on Hydrokinetic Technology Held at IIT Roorkee

Dr. Sangita Kasture, Adviser, Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), inaugurated the workshop and lauded the participants and organizers for their commitment to advancing carbon-neutral and environmentally friendly technologies.

Dr. Sangita Kasture, Adviser, MNRE, remarked, “This workshop is a testament to the innovative spirit and dedication of the participants and organizers. The discussions and findings presented here will significantly contribute to making hydrokinetic technology a viable and reliable renewable energy source.”

Participants included representatives from various government bodies such as MNRE, UJVNL, DIBER-DRDO, and NVVNL-NTPC, alongside leading manufacturers and industry players like the Canadian Hydrokinetic Turbine Test Center, Energyminer, Tidal Sails, TERI, Kirloskar Brothers Group, Swasti Power Pvt. Ltd., Flovel Energy Pvt. Ltd., Maini Renewables, and MACLEC Pvt. Ltd. Academic institutions such as IIT Delhi, IIT Guwahati, IIT Madras, SCET Surat, BBEC Assam, and BITS Pilani also presented their latest research findings on hydrokinetic energy designs.

Throughout the workshop, participants engaged in insightful sessions covering various themes, including an overview of hydrokinetic technology, methodologies for assessing hydrokinetic site potential, and demonstrations of both current and future hydrokinetic technologies by Indian and international delegates.

The workshop highlighted the significant societal impact and importance of hydrokinetic technology, showcasing its potential to revolutionize energy generation with minimal environmental footprint. By offering a clean and sustainable alternative to conventional energy sources, hydrokinetic technology can provide reliable electricity to remote and underserved communities, thus promoting energy equity. The economic discussions emphasized the role of this technology in reducing carbon emissions and combating climate change. Experts underscored the necessity for further research to overcome deployment barriers and enhance technical aspects like computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and design efficiency. Achieving Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 9 by 2030 will not only advance the technology but also ensure its scalability and integration at the community level, driving economic growth, job creation, and a sustainable future. IIT Roorkee’s commitment to this innovative field underscores its pivotal role in fostering renewable energy solutions and environmental stewardship.

Prof. Arun Kumar, Prof. C. S. Pant, and Prof MK Singhal , along with a dedicated team of researchers, were instrumental in organizing this impactful workshop.

Prof. Arun Kumar stated, “The workshop demonstrated the critical role that collaborative research and industry partnerships play in advancing hydrokinetic technology. Our collective efforts will pave the way for sustainable and renewable energy solutions.”

Talking about the workshop, Prof. K.K. Pant, Director of IIT Roorkee, said, “We are proud to host such significant events that foster innovation and collaboration. IIT Roorkee is committed to driving forward the development of sustainable technologies that will benefit society at large.”

Sennheiser launches MKH 8030 figure-of-eight RF condenser microphone

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, July 22, 2024  — Sennheiser’s long-awaited MKH 8030 RF condenser microphone with figure-of-eight pick-up pattern is available now. The MKH 8030 not only unlocks M-S, double M-S, and Blumlein stereo recording options, but is also a great choice wherever the highest attenuation of neighbouring sound sources is required – be it a PA system whose sound needs to be eliminated or an adjacent instrument that must not be picked up. The sound signature of the MKH 8030 has been carefully engineered to blend in harmoniously with the sound of the existing MKH 8000 series microphones.

“We are thrilled to finally launch the MKH 8030, a microphone that the MKH user community has been anticipating for quite a few years,” shares Kai Lange, Product Manager Professional, Wire-bound. “The extremely compact 8030 is ideal for field recording, sports and general broadcasting, theatres, orchestral recordings and studio music.”

Sennheiser’s MKH 8000 family of RF condenser microphones

The MKH 8030 joins the MKH 8020 (omni-directional), MKH 8090 (wide cardioid), MKH 8040 (cardioid), MKH 8050 (super-cardioid), MKH 8060 (short shotgun, super-cardioid/lobar) and MKH 8070 (long shotgun, lobar) RF condenser microphones. Also part of the family is the MKH 800 TWIN, a dual-capsule microphone whose pick-up pattern can be seamlessly adjusted at the mixing desk during recording, or even after the actual recording during post-production.

Their special RF condenser principle and the symmetrical capsule design endows MKH 8000 series microphones with a combination of advantages that can only be found in this series: Remarkable sensitivity paired with durability in adverse climatic conditions, wide frequency response, a fully floating, balanced output signal, low self-noise, and a natural, coherent sound image with no off-axis colouration.

These features enable sound recordists and engineers to capture a sound event in its entirety and with all its intricate detail, with wide dynamics, extremely low distortion, and a largely frequency-independent polar pattern. “The MKH 8000 family are tools for creating natural sound of the highest quality and detail,” adds Lange.

New accessories for the MKH 8000 series

To accommodate the left/right orientation of the MKH 8030, the MZE extension tubes of the series have been updated and fitted with a rotatable head, while the MZGE 8000 tube connector has been improved, now featuring a more robust design. New in the accessory portfolio is the MZH 8042 gooseneck, which brings the exceptional audio quality of a connected MKH microphone, for example the MKH 8040, to the lectern.