DIGITAL ASSISTANTS
Meta, TikTok join Google to push back on Indonesia's planned AI copyright law revisions
If the bill is passed, Indonesia could become the first country in Southeast Asia to incorporate AI in its copyright law, as governments globally grapple with the impact of the technology on copyright rules, including the use of work created by humans to train AI models.
New Zealand moves visitor visa applications online, changing the process for Indian tourists and business travellers
New Zealand has moved most visitor visa applications to its enhanced Immigration Online system, ending the use of several older online forms and selected paper applications. The transition, completed between September 24 and October 8, 2026, affects Indian tourists, business travellers and people visiting family. Applicants who started applications in the old system but did not submit them before the deadline must begin again using the new platform.
Indian IIT talent thrives in Japan's MIRAI-Setu programme as nations near 75th anniversary
As India and Japan approach 75 years of diplomatic ties in 2027, 40 IIT and IIIT students visited Japan under the "Foster System = MIRAI - Setu" programme. Immersed in Japanese universities and corporations, they developed strong industry insights, proposing innovative solutions for bilateral growth.
Drugmakers tap China AI app boom to reach doctors as crackdown upends marketing
As scrutiny intensifies, Chinese pharmaceutical companies are shifting gears toward digital marketing initiatives. Traditional face-to-face communications are waning, prompting the industry to embrace AI-fueled applications for connecting with healthcare providers. These tools facilitate compliant relationships, sparking partnerships among health-tech firms to disseminate clinical information through digital channels. This marks a pivotal change in marketing dynamics within the pharmaceutical landscape.
MSME Ministry reviews CPSE procurement from SC/ST enterprises to meet mandated target
A total of 30 public sector undertakings, including Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited, Bharat Electronics Limited, NTPC, Airports Authority of India, BEML, and Coal India Limited, attended the consultations.
Anthropic launches Claude Whiteboards, Sheets and Data to expand AI-powered workplace tools
Anthropic has introduced Claude Whiteboards and Claude Sheets to enhance collaborative brainstorming and spreadsheet creation. Claude Data has also been launched to provide advanced data analysis capabilities for businesses. These tools aim to streamline teamwork by keeping all activities within the Claude platform. Users can expect integrations with various third-party applications to enhance their workflows. The company envisions Claude as a comprehensive tool for collaborative workplace productivity.
- Go To Page 1
Anthropic expands Claude into spreadsheets, dashboards and collaborative workplace tools
Artificial intelligence company Anthropic has expanded its Claude platform with new tools for creating spreadsheets, digital whiteboards and data dashboards, broadening its capabilities in workplace productivity and collaboration.
'Mobilising $1.3 trillion annually by 2035 to require overhaul of climate finance system'
Mobilising $1.3 trillion a year in climate finance for developing countries by 2035 is achievable, but only with a major overhaul of the global climate finance system, according to a report released by Brazil’s COP30 presidency at COP31 in Antalya. Without policy changes, annual flows are projected to reach only about $460 billion, leaving an $840 billion shortfall. The report says a combination of public and private funding, carbon markets and new taxes could raise $1.27-1.41 trillion annually by 2035. Private investment could contribute $882 billion, public sources $351-384 billion and carbon markets $40-144 billion.
UPI sees Diwali boom; AI cracks Captcha
Diwali spending fuelled a surge in UPI transactions, with both payment volumes and values rising. This and more in today’s ETtech Top 5.
Adobe MAX 2026: AI Agents Come to Photoshop, Premiere Pro and Illustrator in Major Creative Cloud Overhaul
Adobe has now unveiled a major AI overhaul at MAX 2026, that brings intelligent AI agents to Photoshop, Premiere Pro, Illustrator and other Creative Cloud apps. The new tools can execute complex creative tasks, automate repetitive workflows and work with third-party AI assistants, while Adobe expands Firefly and GenStudio with new capabilities for creators and businesses.
How intelligent commerce is shaping the next frontier of merchant payments
For a decade, the task in India’s merchant payments was to get every shop and website to accept digital money. The value, leaders argued, at GFF 2026, is now moving to identity, risk, credit and growth, and to preparing the checkout for AI agents that may soon shop on consumers’ behalf.
US flags visa fraud involving sham staffing firms and fake student records, warns applicants
The US State Department has exposed multiple visa fraud schemes involving sham staffing companies, forged employment documents and fake academic records across several international jurisdictions. The cases include fraudulent recruitment of foreign workers, fabricated student exchange applications and falsified criminal records submitted by immigrant visa applicants.
Trump says "a lot of people" objected to Vance's remarks blaming midterm defeat on Iran war
US President Donald Trump commented on Vice President JD Vance's remarks regarding the midterm elections and the Iran conflict. While many criticized Vance's analysis, Trump expressed his agreement, emphasizing their alliance remains strong. The President stated that military action against Iran is unlikely as negotiations continue, but did not rule it out completely.
Chinese companies providing overseas services to Indian subsidiaries may escape tax: ITAT
In a landmark decision, the Delhi Income Tax Appellate Tribunal has determined that Chinese firms offering services from overseas are not liable for Indian taxes. This ruling contrasts with a Mumbai bench decision made in 2010 regarding taxation policies on foreign services. The tribunal's finding is advantageous for Chinese companies supplying centralized services to Indian entities during the digital age.
Karnataka, Uber discuss passenger safety, regulatory issues and urban transport
Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge recently met with the Uber India Public Policy team to discuss urban mobility. The discussions emphasized passenger safety, regulatory issues, and improvements in urban commuting services. Kharge mentioned that further engagement with ride-hailing platforms will enhance public transportation. Additionally, initiatives like the Bengaluru Urban Mobility Mission are underway to address traffic management and safety.
Surge in air purifier sales in India as pollution levels rise during winter season 2023
Air purifier sales have increased substantially in India as pollution levels rise and winter approaches. Quick-commerce platforms are experiencing heightened demand, especially from Tier 2 cities. Sales of air purifiers on Amazon have reportedly doubled recently, indicating a surge in consumer interest. Additionally, the overall market for winter appliances is projected to grow significantly this season. Analysts expect online sales to climb further as consumers continue to make purchases.
Russell Brand's case involved more than 100 witnesses, 400 statements and 1,400 documents: How police built the evidence
Russell Brand was convicted of one count of rape and three counts of sexual assault. The investigation involved extensive witness accounts, documents, and Brand's previous public materials for timeline establishment. Despite being acquitted on three charges, he faces potential sentencing following the verdict. The case highlights challenges faced in historical investigations without CCTV or forensic evidence. Further inquiries into separate rape allegations against Brand are still ongoing.
States' capital outlay to accelerate to 10-12% on Centre support in FY27, urban infra to lead: Crisil
States' capital expenditure is projected to rise 10-12% to around Rs 8.5 lakh crore in FY27, driven by higher central assistance and greater fiscal flexibility, according to a Crisil Ratings report. Increased allocation under the SASCI scheme is expected to support infrastructure spending, particularly urban development, roads and bridges.
Cashfree opens checkout to AI agents, leaves final say with shoppers
Cashfree has introduced Checkout for Agents, allowing AI agents to assist with online payments. This feature utilises WebMCP technology to simplify the checkout process for AI shopping assistants. Customers still maintain control over final payment authorisation and sensitive information is protected. While AI agents currently represent less than 1% of checkout traffic, Cashfree aims to enhance their efficiency. The company limits agent access to sensitive payment steps to ensure security.
Apple opens Siri AI to all developers: Here’s what you need to know
Apple has launched a Developer Preview of Siri AI for developers across multiple operating systems. This integration facilitates enhanced user interactions, allowing apps to utilize features like App Intents for task management and app skills for managing complex tasks. However, Siri AI remains unavailable in the European Union due to regulatory obligations, and its usage is restricted to individuals over 13 years old.
India, Nepal reaffirm commitment to all-round enhancement of partnership as FS Misri meets PM Shah
India and Nepal have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral ties as Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri met Prime Minister Balendra Shah in Kathmandu ahead of his expected visit to Delhi later this month. Discussions covered trade, energy, connectivity, sports and new areas of cooperation, including AI and digital connectivity.
Bandra OTT release date locked: When and where to watch Tamannaah Bhatia's Malayalam debut film online
Dileep and Tamannaah Bhatia's 2023 Malayalam film Bandra is set for its OTT debut more than three years after its theatrical release. Directed by Arun Gopy, the romantic crime drama follows a filmmaker investigating the mysterious death of a 1990s Bollywood actress, whose past is connected to a powerful businessman and the underworld.
West Bengal investment policy puts jobs first, offers up to 120% assistance to industries
West Bengal has launched a new investment promotion policy aimed at encouraging industrial growth and job creation. The policy includes substantial incentives for businesses, especially those focused on employing women and transgender workers. It offers streamlined processes for approvals and payments, enhancing efficiency for investors. Priority areas will receive higher assistance levels and a framework for regular review every three years.
LG Electronics India enters automotive solutions business, plans manufacturing in Andhra Pradesh
LG Electronics India has received board approval to expand into automotive technology and manufacture vehicle solutions. The company plans to develop a range of products including infotainment, telematics, and advanced driver assistance systems. LG Electronics India will invest in phases based on market conditions and technological requirements.
EAM Jaishankar meets Guyana President, announces $500 million Line of Credit extension
S Jaishankar recently met with Guyana President Irfaan Ali to review their bilateral cooperation agreements. They discussed the implementation of a UPI-like system and the extension of a USD 500 million Line of Credit. Additionally, agreements were signed for manufacturing projects and Quick Impact Projects in Guyana. Jaishankar also engaged with leaders from Australia and the United Kingdom to strengthen economic partnerships.
EAM Jaishankar discusses economic partnership, CETA with UK’s Burnham on CHOGM sidelines
S Jaishankar met UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham in Antigua and Barbuda for CHOGM 2026 discussions. They focused on strengthening economic partnerships under the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement. Jaishankar emphasized the importance of digital solutions and climate initiatives during a Commonwealth meeting. He highlighted local distribution networks and the role of the Indian business community in fostering connections.
AI-based cyber threat executing unauthorised fund transfers from banking firms: Cert-In
The Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (Cert-In) has named the incident "Crafty Falcon", which uses publicly available AI tools to execute complete attack chains autonomously at machine speed and generate and refine large numbers of tailored attack scripts in rapid succession.
AI shopping agents could threaten Amazon and Walmart's ad business
Retail powerhouses Walmart and Amazon are also the world's two largest retail media businesses, dominating the estimated $74.4 billion in US retail media spending with a combined 88% share of that market, according to projections from data firm Emarketer. But digital assistants could soon disrupt that business.
Canva layoffs: Affected staffers to get 6 months’ pay, a MacBook, and $10,000 to start up
Canva has announced significant changes that will impact around 1,271 team members, driven by a downturn in revenue growth. To improve project management and empower decision-making, teams will be consolidated. From January, employees will need to work in the office two to three times a week. A support package will provide generous severance, healthcare benefits, and career assistance, alongside a grant program to help exiting employees pursue new career paths.
Load More
