StartupSuperb

Tag: AI

  • “Harsh Goenka on AI’s Transformation of Work: Embracing Change and New Opportunities”

    “Harsh Goenka on AI’s Transformation of Work: Embracing Change and New Opportunities”


    AI’s Impact on Jobs: Insights from Harsh Goenka

    AI has become a significant force in transforming employment landscapes, prompting RPG Enterprises Chairman Harsh Goenka to address the increasing anxiety surrounding potential job losses. He also highlighted the emerging opportunities that AI is set to create.

    Goenka noted, “Everyone is concerned: Will AI take my job? What new roles will AI generate?” He believes that AI will revolutionise workplaces and create new positions such as Prompt Engineers, AI Product Managers, and AI Ethics Specialists. The competitive edge will belong to those who are most adaptable and intelligent.

    His comments sparked a lively debate on social media, with mixed reactions. One user endorsed Goenka’s perspective, stating that AI does not inherently eliminate jobs, as guiding AI will still be essential. They emphasized, “AI has actually expanded the job market, which is why companies like Capgemini are now hiring fresh graduates. The role of AI Ethics Specialists is vital in distinguishing reality from artificial constructs, and it is humans who will guide AI’s development.”

    Another individual shared a broader perspective, reflecting on the profound consequences of AI: “AI will undoubtedly disrupt our lives while introducing new applications. However, human emotions and connections will always remain crucial. In 20 or 30 years, when humanity has evolved further, there may be a desire to return to simpler village life.”

    Additionally, a recent study by Microsoft Research provides an in-depth analysis of how AI could shape the future of work.

    The research identifies 40 job categories that are most susceptible to disruption by AI and another 40 that are least likely to be affected. While this study focuses on roles within the U.S., experts suggest that the findings apply to both developed and developing nations.

    Kiran Tomlinson, a Senior Researcher at Microsoft, explained, “Our research investigates which job categories can effectively utilise AI chatbots. It introduces an AI applicability score that assesses the alignment between AI capabilities and job responsibilities, illuminating areas where AI could alter work practices, rather than eliminate roles.”

  • Biome Secures Initial Funding of Rs 100 Crore to Support Co-Founded Startups

    Biome Secures Initial Funding of Rs 100 Crore to Support Co-Founded Startups



    Biome Venture Studio Completes Capital Raise

    Biome Venture Studio Completes Capital Raise

    Biome, a venture studio, has successfully finalised its first capital raise, uniting a group of investors that includes experienced entrepreneurs and strategic family offices. Biome focuses on guiding seasoned founders who aim to launch startups from the ground up, providing extensive operational support. Each year, it partners with a select number of high-conviction startups through a unique model that integrates strategy, talent, and funding.

    Prominent Investors Join Biome

    This initial capital close features notable figures such as BVR Mohan Reddy, Prasad Yerneni, and Abhinav Reddy, alongside family offices of Raj Phani (Zaggle), Aditya Vuchi, and the Phoenix Group. These investors not only provide financial backing but also bring valuable strategic networks across various sectors, such as enterprise, infrastructure, and innovation.

    Commitment to High-Impact Startups

    Biome has pledged an investment of Rs 100 crore over the next three years to co-create and scale impactful startups with significant operational support. Some of its initial ventures include a stealth-mode AI project based in the United States, led by a renowned AI scientist, and Zoop.Money, an innovative startup rethinking access to home loans.

    Leadership at Biome

    Guided by Srinivas Kollipara, Madhu Poomalil, Kaustubh Patekar, and Zaran Bhagwagar, this venture studio not only seeds but also co-founds companies from their inception. The operating team integrates experienced product leaders, growth operators, and industry experts into each startup from the very beginning, streamlining validation, execution, and scaling processes.

    Biome’s Approach to Supporting Startups

    Srinivas Kollipara, Managing Partner at Biome, articulated the studio’s mission: “Biome has been structured to serve as the essential early partner that early-stage companies genuinely need: deeply engaged, focused on execution, and dedicated throughout all growth phases. The capital we provide does more than back businesses — it assists in constructing them, brick by brick.”


  • OpenAI Introduces Two Open-Weight Language Models Tailored for Local Deployment and Enhanced Reasoning

    OpenAI Introduces Two Open-Weight Language Models Tailored for Local Deployment and Enhanced Reasoning



    OpenAI Launches New Open-Weight Language Models for Local Use


    OpenAI Launches New Open-Weight Language Models for Local Use

    OpenAI has introduced two fresh open-weight language models, crafted to run locally on laptops, delivering performance that rivals its smaller proprietary reasoning models. This release represents the company’s initial open-weight offering since the launch of GPT-2 in 2019.

    Open-weight models differ from open-source models by granting public access to trained parameters while withholding the complete source code or training data. This enables developers to adapt the models for tailored tasks without the necessity of the original datasets.

    Greg Brockman, co-founder of OpenAI, highlighted during a press event that, “What makes open models special is that they can be executed locally, behind an organisation’s own firewall and infrastructure.”

    Details of the Open-Weight Models

    The two models, gpt-oss-120b and gpt-oss-20b, are specifically designed for varying hardware capabilities. The larger gpt-oss-120b runs on a single GPU, while the smaller gpt-oss-20b functions directly on personal computers. Both models are reported to match the performance levels of OpenAI’s proprietary o3-mini and o4-mini reasoning models, excelling in areas such as coding, high-level mathematics, and health-related inquiries.

    Training and Data

    The models were developed using a text-only dataset that highlights science, mathematics, and programming, alongside a broad range of general knowledge. OpenAI has yet to release direct benchmark comparisons with rival models, such as the DeepSeek-R1 from China, which has recently attracted attention for its reasoning abilities.

    Partnership with Amazon

    In a related announcement, Amazon revealed that OpenAI’s open-weight models are now accessible via its AWS Bedrock generative AI marketplace. Atul Deo, the product director for Bedrock, expressed optimism about these new models, stating, “OpenAI has been crafting exceptional models, and we’re confident these will serve as excellent open-weight options for our customers,” though the specifics of the partnership were not disclosed.

    This launch occurs as OpenAI, backed by Microsoft and valued at approximately $300 billion, aims to secure up to $40 billion in a funding round led by SoftBank Group.


  • DPDzero Secures Million Investment Led by GMO Venture Partners

    DPDzero Secures $7 Million Investment Led by GMO Venture Partners



    DPDzero Funding Success of $7 Million for Fintech Solutions

    DPDzero Funding Success of $7 Million for Fintech Solutions

    Fintech company DPDzero has successfully secured $7 million in a funding round spearheaded by GMO Venture Partners from Japan. This round saw participation from SMBC Asia alongside existing investor Blume Ventures. Additional support from prior investors such as Better Capital, Anmol Maini Ventures, and India Quotient has contributed $4.7 million thus far.

    Recently, Startup Superb reached out to the founder of DPDzero, Ananth Shroff, regarding this funding, but he indicated that their information was inaccurate at that moment.

    The Bengaluru-based business aims to allocate the new capital towards recruiting its own field collection agents, starting in Bengaluru and eventually branching out to Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh. The inclusion of these agents will enable DPDzero to provide comprehensive and ethical collection services.

    Established in 2022 by Ananth Shroff and Ranjith Ramchandra, DPDzero assists banks, NBFCs, MFIs, and fintech firms with debt recovery through a blend of AI technology combined with human expertise. The company’s clientele includes notable names like RBL Bank, IndusInd Bank, L&T Finance, and Manappuram Finance.

    Currently, the startup processes collections for unsecured lending and is set to venture into personal loans and credit card collections. To date, it has managed collections for over 1 crore borrowers and works with approximately 18 lakh borrowers monthly.


  • AI: A Game Changer for Healthcare, But Nurses Remain Unmatched, According to Google DeepMind’s CEO Demis Hassabis

    AI: A Game Changer for Healthcare, But Nurses Remain Unmatched, According to Google DeepMind’s CEO Demis Hassabis


    The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on the Future of Work

    As artificial intelligence continues to advance rapidly, its influence on the future of work is becoming an increasingly pressing issue. Prominent tech companies, including Amazon and Nvidia, have started to publicly acknowledge that AI will significantly transform the global workforce. However, Demis Hassabis, the CEO of Google DeepMind, asserts that not all professions face the same level of risk.

    AI’s Growing Role in Healthcare

    Hassabis shared insights during a recent interview with Wired, highlighting how AI systems are already proving beneficial in healthcare by interpreting medical scans, assessing lab reports, and even recommending treatment plans. He noted that the future might see AI playing a crucial role in diagnosis, particularly due to its proficiency in analysing vast amounts of complex data. This capability could position AI as an invaluable partner to healthcare professionals in the years ahead.

    Nursing: A Unique Human Profession

    When discussing artificial general intelligence (AGI) and the potential for machines to take over human roles entirely, Hassabis underscored the distinction for nurses. He argued that while AI might assist and even surpass doctors in specific technical tasks, it cannot emulate the empathy, trust, and emotional intelligence that nursing demands. He remarked that while individuals might be open to receiving care from an AI doctor, the same might not hold true for a robotic nurse.

    Hassabis articulated that nursing is deeply rooted in human connection. Beyond mere physical care, nurses provide comfort, reassurance, and support to patients during vulnerable moments—qualities that no level of technological advancement can genuinely replicate. He elaborated that although a robotic nurse might showcase efficiency, it would fundamentally lack the warmth and compassion that are vital to quality caregiving.

    Industry Perspectives on AI’s Workforce Impact

    This differentiation arises as industry leaders express concerns regarding widespread disruption. Andy Jassy, CEO of Amazon, recently indicated that AI would contribute to workforce reductions, while Jensen Huang, CEO of Nvidia, warned that every job would be influenced—some would disappear, but many new roles would emerge.

    Hassabis concurs that AI will usher in significant changes to employment within the next five to ten years. He regards the current phase of technology as an “additive force,” but acknowledges that transformative shifts are unavoidable, particularly as AI takes over repetitive and time-consuming tasks across various sectors.

    Optimism for Human-AI Collaboration in Healthcare

    Despite the challenges, the DeepMind chief remains hopeful about the prospects of human-AI collaboration in healthcare. He envisions AI as a tool that will enable doctors and nurses to dedicate their efforts to more complex, human-centric activities, leading to quicker diagnoses, tailored treatment plans, and ultimately improved patient outcomes.

    However, as AI capabilities expand, experts are cautioning that vigilance is necessary. Geoffrey Hinton, often dubbed the “Godfather of AI,” has voiced concerns that advanced AI systems may begin to form internal “thought processes” beyond human comprehension, raising vital questions about transparency and accountability in the technology.

    In conclusion, while the path forward for AI in healthcare is laden with opportunities for breakthroughs, it is evident that not all professions hold the same status in the era of machines.

  • Cautio Secures Million in Seed Funding with Amal Parikh at the Helm

    Cautio Secures $3 Million in Seed Funding with Amal Parikh at the Helm



    AI-powered Video Telematics | Cautio Raises $1.8 Million



    AI-powered Video Telematics: Cautio Secures $1.8 Million in Funding

    AI-powered video telematics startup Cautio has successfully raised $1.8 million in a recent funding round led by Amal Parikh. The investment also saw contributions from 8i Ventures, AU Small Finance Bank, Venture Catalysts, Vibha Chetan from Cheravi Ventures, Raveen Sastry of Multiply Ventures, Vivekananda Hallekere from Bounce, and Nishchay AG of JAR.

    This new injection of capital has increased Cautio’s total seed funding to $3 million, with a previous raise of $1.2 million in April as part of the same funding series.

    Funding Utilisation and Expansion Plans

    The funds raised will be primarily directed towards improving research and development capabilities, scaling up AI technologies, and expanding its deployment and servicing framework throughout India.

    About Cautio and Its Offerings

    Founded by Ankit Acharya and Pranjal, Cautio specializes in AI-powered dashcams tailored for fleet operators. These innovative devices provide real-time safety alerts aimed at preventing road accidents. The technology is currently deployed across various sectors, including public transport, school buses, and commercial fleets, enabling operators to swiftly identify and react to potential risks.

    Current Operations and Impact

    Cautio is operational in 46 cities and boasts a customer base of over 60. The startup is committed to enhancing safety on Indian roads by leveraging predictive technology to minimise the risks associated with accidents.


  • Google Taunts Apple for Slow AI Innovations in New Pixel 10 Teaser

    Google Taunts Apple for Slow AI Innovations in New Pixel 10 Teaser



    Pixel 10 Series: Google’s Latest AI Innovations

    Pixel 10 Series: Google’s Latest AI Innovations

    Google has introduced a teaser for its forthcoming Pixel 10 series, making a pointed remark about Apple’s postponed launch of AI-integrated Siri features. The video, showcased by Google India on X (formerly Twitter), provides an initial glimpse at the Pixel 10 Pro in a fresh colour while the narration ridicules the notion of acquiring a phone for features that are still “coming soon,” a direct jab at Apple’s approach to its AI announcements.

    The advertisement features a stylised instrumental rendition of The Next Episode by Dr. Dre, widely interpreted as a playful reference to Apple’s 2014 acquisition of Beats by Dre. The voiceover states: “If you bought a new phone for a feature that’s been ‘coming soon’ for a full year, perhaps it’s time to redefine ‘soon’, or better yet, switch your phone.”

    The critique is specifically directed at Apple’s WWDC 2024 presentation, where the tech giant unveiled ambitious new AI functionalities for Siri, such as context awareness, on-screen understanding, and in-app actions. These were initially promised to launch with the iOS 18 update cycle. Nevertheless, those features have been postponed, with Greg Joswiak, Apple’s Senior Vice President of Global Marketing, confirming at WWDC 2025 that they will now debut in 2026 due to quality concerns found during internal testing.

    This situation has resulted in numerous iPhone 16 owners lingering for nearly a year for features that still have not emerged, a fact that Google is clearly leveraging. In contrast, the Pixel 10 is anticipated to arrive with Gemini-powered AI features ready from the outset.

    Pixel 10 Launch, Specs and What to Anticipate

    Google is preparing to officially unveil the Pixel 10 series on 20 August at its ‘Made by Google’ event. The launch in India is scheduled for 21 August. This year’s collection is anticipated to comprise four models: Pixel 10, Pixel 10 Pro, Pixel 10 Pro XL, and Pixel 10 Pro Fold.

    All models are expected to operate on Google’s innovative Tensor G5 chip, fabricated on TSMC’s cutting-edge 3nm process. This chipset is predicted to provide notable improvements in both performance and energy efficiency, alongside an upgraded image signal processor (ISP) that will further enhance photo and video quality.

    Camera expectations indicate some adjustments across the series. While the Pixel 10 and Pixel 10 Pro Fold may utilise the same main and ultra-wide sensors as the Pixel 9a, representing a minor downgrade from the Pixel 9 series, the base model might introduce the 5x periscope telephoto lens that was previously exclusive to premium models. The Pixel 10 Pro and Pro XL are expected to maintain the camera arrangement from the previous year.

    Another crucial addition will be compatibility with the latest Qi2 wireless charging standard, providing 25W magnetic charging across the entire lineup. Furthermore, Google is rumoured to be launching a new ‘Pixelsnap’ accessory collection alongside the phones, featuring magnetic chargers and custom-fit cases.

    With the teaser campaign already creating buzz, Google appears poised to escalate the discussion beyond subtle distinctions, transforming Apple’s AI delays into a compelling selling point for the Pixel 10 series.

  • Oppo K13 Turbo Series Set to Launch on August 11: Specs, Features, and What to Expect

    Oppo K13 Turbo Series Set to Launch on August 11: Specs, Features, and What to Expect



    Oppo K13 Turbo Series Launch in India – High Performance for Gamers

    Oppo K13 Turbo Series: Unveiling Powerful Gaming Smartphones in India

    Oppo is set to broaden its mid-premium smartphone range in India with the release of the K13 Turbo Series on Monday, 11 August 2025. Designed especially for gamers and power users, the series will feature two models: the Oppo K13 Turbo Pro and the Oppo K13 Turbo, both of which promise consistent performance, advanced cooling features, and on-device AI functionalities.

    India’s First Smartphone with Integrated Cooling Fan

    One of the standout characteristics of the K13 Turbo Series is the built-in cooling fan, making it the first series in India to incorporate this kind of active cooling feature. The cooling fan is part of a comprehensive thermal management system that includes a vapour chamber and a seven-layer graphite cooling structure. Oppo claims this setup can lower surface temperatures by 2–4°C in comparison to other models, providing stable performance at high frame rates during demanding gaming sessions.

    Oppo K13 Turbo Pro Specifications

    • Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8s Gen 4
    • AI Features: Gemini AI compatibility, real-time image and text processing, private on-device AI
    • Cooling: Integrated fan, Storm Engine, and vapour chamber
    • Audio: Dual stereo speakers featuring OReality Audio, Footstep Enhancer, and low-latency algorithms
    • Gaming Tools: One-Tap Replay, Silent Launch, and game-specific battery optimisation
    • Design: Turbo Breathing Light (RGB LEDs surrounding the camera)
    • Colours: Silver Knight, Purple Phantom, and Midnight Maverick

    The Pro version is designed for those who desire flagship-level performance in both gaming and multitasking situations. Oppo asserts that the device can achieve up to 120fps sustained frame rates and GPU performance that surpasses some Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 devices during extended stress tests.

    Oppo K13 Turbo Specifications

    • Processor: MediaTek Dimensity 8450
    • Performance: 41% better multi-core performance and 40% lower power consumption compared to earlier Dimensity chips
    • AI: Enhanced NPU 880 for on-device voice recognition and scene improvement
    • Graphics: ARM G720 MC7 GPU providing 25% improved peak performance
    • Design: Turbo Luminous Ring, emitting a gentle glow in the dark
    • Colours: White Knight, Purple Phantom, and Midnight Maverick

    This model aims to offer a seamless blend of gaming efficiency and everyday usability, with a focus on AI-enhanced productivity and an engaging user experience.

    What Remains Unknown

    Although much has been unveiled regarding specifications and features, Oppo has yet to disclose the display specifics for both devices. The resolution, panel type, and peak brightness are still under wraps. Likewise, battery capacity and charging speeds remain undisclosed. Given that these devices are geared towards performance and gaming, large batteries and rapid charging capabilities are anticipated.

    Oppo has not shared any information on camera specifications for either model, nor has there been any mention of software support.

    While it is known that the K13 Turbo Series will be priced under ₹40,000, the exact pricing details are still to be announced. With the official launch scheduled for 11 August 2025, further information is expected to surface soon.


  • EON Space Labs Secures .2 Million in Pre-Series A Funding

    EON Space Labs Secures $1.2 Million in Pre-Series A Funding


    EON Space Labs Secures $1.2 Million for AI-Driven Imaging Technologies

    EON Space Labs, a deeptech startup based in Hyderabad, specialising in imaging technologies, has successfully secured $1.2 million (approximately Rs 10.5 crore) in a pre-Series A funding round. The funding was led by MGF Kavachh, with contributions from HHV Advanced Technologies.

    The funds will be utilised to enhance the manufacturing of its AI-driven electro-optical and infrared payloads, expand the engineering team, and facilitate upcoming product launches, as indicated in a press release from EON.

    Established in 2022 by Sanjay Kumar, Punit Badeka, and Manoj Kumar Gaddam, EON Space Labs is an incubation success from IIT Madras, focusing on developing next-generation Earth Observation (EO) imaging payloads for satellites, drones, and ground systems. The startup excels in designing and manufacturing miniaturised, high-resolution electro-optic and infrared (EO/IR) systems that are up to three times lighter and more compact than traditional payloads. This innovation not only reduces deployment costs but also maintains exceptional image quality.

    EON Space Labs’ Innovative Product Line

    The flagship products of EON, including the MIRA space telescope, which is currently under validation, and the LUMIRA EO/IR platform, certified to military standards, exemplify a vertically integrated production model. This model spans optical design, in-house prototyping, and manufacturing, ensuring speed, precision, and oversight throughout the entire value chain.

    Global Partnerships and Future Innovations

    In addition to its domestic ventures, EON Space Labs is actively forging global partnerships to access international markets. Several commercial orders have already been secured after successful proof of concept demonstrations. The startup also plans to introduce four new variants of its LUMIRA EO/IR imaging systems, specifically designed for long-range detection of humans, vehicles, threats, and UAVs via drone and ground-based surveillance platforms.

  • “ChatGPT Introduces New Feature to Encourage Breaks During Extended Conversations”

    “ChatGPT Introduces New Feature to Encourage Breaks During Extended Conversations”


    OpenAI Introduces Features to Enhance ChatGPT User Experience

    OpenAI has launched new functionalities on its ChatGPT platform, including a fresh break reminder aimed at promoting user wellbeing during lengthy interactions. The message reads, “Just checking in. You’ve been chatting for a while — is this a good time for a break?” This allows users to either keep the conversation going or take a pause by selecting “This was helpful.” OpenAI is actively working on fine-tuning the timing and frequency of these reminders to ensure they feel both “natural and helpful.”

    Shift in Focus Towards User Wellbeing

    This update is part of OpenAI’s larger strategy to move away from traditional metrics like time spent and engagement clicks, and instead concentrate on long-term usefulness and user satisfaction. OpenAI remarked in a blog post that “Instead of measuring success by time spent or clicks, we care more about whether you leave the product having done what you came for.”

    New Approach for Sensitive Conversations

    In addition to the break reminders, ChatGPT will soon implement a revised approach for discussions involving significant personal decisions. Instead of giving direct advice on delicate matters, such as relationship issues, the chatbot will now encourage users to reflect on their choices by posing thoughtful questions and laying out pros and cons.

    Enhanced Detection of Mental and Emotional Distress

    OpenAI is also working on tools that will enable ChatGPT to identify signs of mental or emotional distress more effectively. This will allow the chatbot to respond appropriately and guide users towards evidence-based resources when necessary. The company stated, “We’re continuing to improve our models and are developing tools to better detect signs of mental or emotional distress.”

    Responses to User Feedback

    These enhancements come after previous criticism stemming from a New York Times report that highlighted issues with ChatGPT’s overly agreeable tone, including instances of flattery and factual inaccuracies, sometimes referred to as “hallucinations.” OpenAI acknowledged in April that an update to GPT-4o made the chatbot excessively sycophantic, leaning too closely to users’ beliefs even when those beliefs were incorrect or potentially harmful. Fortunately, that change has now been reversed.

    Commitment to Responsible AI Development

    The new direction reflects OpenAI’s dedication to creating a more accountable and supportive AI experience. The company stated, “Our goal to help you thrive won’t change. Our approach will keep evolving as we learn from real-world use.”

    Anticipating the Release of GPT-5

    In the meantime, OpenAI’s CEO Sam Altman has hinted at the forthcoming launch of GPT-5, which is expected to significantly improve the platform’s capabilities. Notably, the new model will remove the model picker, allowing ChatGPT to intuitively decide when to employ reasoning or general responses, thereby enhancing the user experience even further.