Tag: tech

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.
August 6, 2025
Asus Teams Up with Swiggy Instamart for 10-Minute Laptop Deliveries!
Asus Launches Quick Delivery Service for Laptops via Swiggy Instamart
Asus has joined forces with Swiggy Instamart to provide its selection of consumer and gaming laptops with rapid delivery options across key cities in India.
Customers in urban areas including Bangalore, Delhi NCR, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Chennai, Pune, and Kolkata can now conveniently order Asus laptops through Swiggy Instamart, receiving them in just minutes. The available product lineup features popular models such as the Asus Vivobook Go 15, ASUS Vivobook 15, and TUF Gaming F16, with prices beginning at ₹33,990.
This collaboration aims to leverage India’s expanding quick commerce industry, which is increasingly appealing to tech-savvy city dwellers. Last year, Asus also launched its accessories on rapid commerce platforms with a partnership with Zepto.
Through this new alliance, the Taiwanese firm aims to meet the growing demand for instant delivery services, particularly in metropolitan regions where consumers expect quicker fulfillment.
“At ASUS, the company is dedicated to innovating alongside changing consumer lifestyles, and the partnership with Swiggy Instamart embodies that mission,” stated Arnold Su, Vice-President of Consumer and Gaming PC at ASUS India. “By collaborating with Swiggy Instamart and utilizing its vast network, it ensures that ASUS laptops are delivered to users without delay.”
The models currently available for purchase on Swiggy Instamart include:
- Asus Vivobook Go 15 (AMD Ryzen 3, 8GB RAM, 512GB SSD, Windows 11, MS Office): ₹33,990
- Asus Vivobook 15 (Intel Core i5 13th Gen, 8GB RAM, 512GB SSD, Windows 11, MS Office): ₹50,990
- TUF Gaming F16 (Intel Core i5, RTX 3050 GPU, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD, 144Hz display, Windows 11, MS Office): ₹74,990
Asus claims that this initiative establishes a new standard for accessibility in the tech sector. It seeks to fulfil the rising consumer demand for high-performance devices along with expedited delivery options.
August 5, 2025
TurboHire Secures $6 Million in Series A Funding with IvyCap Ventures at the Helm

TurboHire: Revolutionizing Recruitment Automation

TurboHire: Revolutionising Recruitment Automation
TurboHire, an enterprise recruitment automation platform, has successfully secured $6 million in Series A funding, led by IvyCap Ventures. This investment builds on the $2 million raised earlier in October 2023 during its pre-Series A funding round, which was supported by Pentathlon VC and The Chennai Angels.
Expansion Plans for TurboHire
The Hyderabad-based startup plans to utilise the funds to fuel its global expansion, enhance its product offerings, and strengthen its integration within HR tech ecosystems.
About TurboHire
Founded in 2019 by Deepak Agrawal, Rakesh Nayak, and Gaurav Kumar, TurboHire is reshaping enterprise recruitment through its AI-driven platform. This innovative solution combines Agentic AI, intelligent workflows, and seamless HRMS connectivity, enabling businesses to navigate the hiring process for both high-volume roles and leadership positions via a single, configurable interface.
Business Model of TurboHire
TurboHire operates under a B2B SaaS model, providing subscription-based access to its recruitment automation platform. The platform generates revenue from enterprises that employ its tools to streamline hiring processes, shorten time-to-hire, and enhance overall recruitment efficiency.
Growing Client Base
TurboHire is proud to serve over 120 enterprises, including major names like Cipla, Tata Motors, PwC, Lenskart, Britannia, RPG Group, Motilal Oswal Group, and Ola (ANI Technologies). The platform’s technology also integrates with prominent global HRMS solutions such as SAP SuccessFactors, Oracle HCM, and Workday.

August 5, 2025
Introducing the Sleek and Resilient vivo X Fold5 in India
Foldable Phones Revolution: vivo X Fold5

Foldable Phones Revolution: vivo X Fold5
Foldable phones have emerged beyond mere futuristic gadgets, becoming viable options alongside traditional smartphones. As this category develops, users seek more than just aesthetic appeal; they demand reliability, performance, and features that genuinely enhance daily use. This will be the true benchmark for foldables in 2025.
The vivo X Fold5 exemplifies this shift. It is not merely an iteration of the foldable design; it stands out as a productivity-centric flagship device that conveniently folds in half.
Why the vivo X Fold5 Matters
While many foldables impress visually, they often sacrifice battery life, practicality, and durability. The X Fold5 changes this narrative by offering the largest battery within its category, along with the most expansive and luminous display available, a ZEISS co-engineered camera system, and genuinely beneficial AI-powered tools.
Design and Durability
Weighing only 217g and measuring just 4.3 mm when unfolded and 9.2 mm when folded, it is indeed lighter than numerous standard flagship phones. Despite its lightweight design, the X Fold5 does not feel fragile or underpowered, thanks to an aerospace-grade hinge that ensures both form stability and strength during its repeated use. This hinge is complemented by reinforced materials and an enhanced structure that improves drop resilience and long-term durability, making the X Fold5 both robust and stylish.
Innovation in Slimness
Previously, a bulkier design was synonymous with innovation in foldables. However, vivo has changed this with the X Fold5, presenting a robust device that is not only technologically advanced but also slimmer and lighter than any previous models released by the company.
Battery Performance
The X Fold5 houses a 6000mAh battery, the largest ever included in a foldable device in India. Featuring semi-solid state battery technology, it enhances energy density, offers improved heat management, and ensures prolonged battery life. Additionally, it provides 80W wired fast charging and 40W wireless charging, allowing users to remain productive, whether engaged in meetings or editing content on the go.
Display Excellence
The 2K ZEISS Master Display on the X Fold5 achieves an extraordinary peak brightness of 4500 nits, making it the brightest among foldables in India. This display guarantees vibrant visuals for reading in sunlight or streaming HDR content indoors.
- Main screen: 8.03 inches
- Cover screen: 6.53 inches
- Both support 2K+ resolution, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, and a 120Hz refresh rate
The result is a foldable display that not only rivals but surpasses many flagship models.
Exceptional Camera System
As smartphones become the primary camera for many, vivo acknowledges this shift, which is why the X Fold5’s ZEISS co-engineered camera system is not only good but excels. It offers features designed for professionals and creators seeking DSLR-like adaptability.
Camera Features
- ZEISS Telephoto Camera: 3x optical zoom and 100x digital zoom, enabled by Sony’s IMX882 sensor, capturing distant subjects with remarkable clarity.
- ZEISS Multifocal Portrait: Enables creation of professional portraits with tailored depth and background blur.
- Stage Mode: Utilises AI to keep subjects in focus while they move, ideal for vlogs, interviews, or live events.
- Main Camera: 50MP Sony IMX921 with Ultra-sensing VCS for enhanced colour accuracy.
- Ultra-wide Camera: 50MP with a 120° field of view, perfect for group shots and landscapes.
- ZEISS T coating: Minimises glare and flare, particularly beneficial in low-light or backlit scenarios.
It is about precision rather than just megapixels, and the X Fold5 excels in this area.
Productivity Features
The Origin Workbench introduces genuine multitasking capabilities to the foldable format. Users can run up to five applications simultaneously, effortlessly drag and drop between windows, and switch contexts while maintaining their workflow.
Productivity Tools
- vivo DocMaster: Allows on-the-fly document viewing, annotation, or conversion.
- Smart Call Assistant: Summarises conversations and proposes smart responses.
- AI Captions & Live Text: Instantly generates subtitles or extracts text from images.
- Gemini Assistant: A built-in AI collaborator that aids in writing, searching, and organising tasks.
It operates like a virtual assistant within the device, without delays or learning curves.
Performance Specifications
The Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip powers all these features, representing Qualcomm’s latest and most robust platform. Coupled with 16GB LPDDR5X RAM and 512GB UFS 4.1 storage, users can seamlessly transition between video editing, gaming, meetings, and more without any slowdowns.
Availability and Pricing
The vivo X Fold5 will come in Titanium Grey with 16GB RAM and 512GB storage, priced at Rs 1,49,999. Sales begin on 30th July.
Launch Offers
- 24-month no-cost EMI starting from Rs 6,250/month
- Zero down payment option
- 10% instant cashback on selected bank cards
- 10% V-Upgrade exchange bonus
- 1-year free extended warranty
- Up to 70% discount on V-Shield protection
- vivo TWS 3e earbuds available for Rs 1,499 as a bundled add-on
August 5, 2025
“Challenging the Myth of Job Security: Dhirendra Kumar on TCS’s Revelations”

Job Security in Tech: TCS Layoffs as a Wake-Up Call

Job Security in Tech: TCS Layoffs as a Wake-Up Call
TCS’s decision to cut 12,000 jobs isn’t merely a corporate adjustment; it serves as a stark reminder of the shifting landscape of job security in the tech sector. In an article featured in the Economic Times, Dhirendra Kumar, CEO of Value Research, describes it as a “wake-up call” for many in India who have long held onto the belief that tech jobs are secure.
Understanding the Impact of Job Cuts
As India’s leading IT firm, TCS has always symbolised reliable employment. However, the company is now reducing its workforce by 2%, primarily affecting middle management roles. Kumar argues that the public backlash surrounding this decision overlooks a deeper issue. According to him, the tech sector had operated under a false sense of security for years, akin to government jobs, and this illusion has now crumbled.
Instability as a New Normal
Kumar does not shy away from addressing the harsh truths surrounding employment instability. He asserts that this instability is not a flaw but rather a fundamental aspect of the current system. He posits, “If a company like TCS fails to adapt to a changing world, it’ll be dead sooner rather than later.” Far from being an act of corporate cruelty, the layoffs are presented as necessary for remaining competitive.
The Financial Vulnerabilities of Workers
In his analysis, Kumar highlights that many Indian workers find themselves in precarious situations. This precariousness is not solely due to job reliance but also stems from a lack of financial preparedness. He states, “The biggest vulnerability middle-class families face isn’t low income—it’s massive fixed costs.” High equated monthly instalments (EMIs), credit card debt, and lifestyle inflation contribute to making any job loss a significant crisis.
The Story of a Tech Couple
Kumar shares an example of a tech couple whose professional lives were closely linked to the same industry. When the downturn struck, they faced the dual challenge of losing both careers. He remarks that they were not just financially under-diversified but had also neglected to diversify their lives.
Building Financial Resilience
According to Kumar, the path forward does not lie in denial or anger; rather, it involves taking proactive steps towards financial security. He advocates for developing “financial armor,” which includes having emergency funds, managing debt wisely, and spending flexibly. He warns, “If you spend 90% of your income, a layoff is disaster. At 60%, it’s inconvenience.”
Preparing for Future Challenges
TCS’s layoffs are merely the beginning of a larger trend. Kumar insists, “Rather than raging against market realities, build buffers to survive them.” In today’s fast-evolving economy, assuming that job security is guaranteed may indeed be the riskiest assumption of all.

August 5, 2025
“India’s Vertical AI Startups Prepare for a Strategic Shift Towards Enterprise Solutions”

Vertical AI Startups: Revolutionising Enterprise Technology

Vertical AI Startups: Revolutionising Enterprise Technology
Vertical AI is emerging as a promising frontier for Indian startups, focussing on applying artificial intelligence to specific sectors, even as large corporations approach the adoption of these innovations with caution.
Spotlight on Indian Vertical AI Founders
The recently released VIBE50 report highlights 50 promising vertical AI startups founded by Indian entrepreneurs. These companies are addressing intricate, industry-specific challenges across twelve key sectors, including healthcare, manufacturing, financial services, and logistics. Specialised solutions provided by these startups are designed to integrate AI seamlessly into business processes.
A Shift in Enterprise Tech Focus
As enterprises worldwide evolve, there is a notable shift from broad, horizontal AI tools toward targeted systems that are expected to yield measurable results. The report emphasises that the next significant financial successes in AI will stem from companies dedicated to solving genuine workflow challenges in particular industries rather than from general-purpose platforms.
The Challenge of Adoption
However, converting the potential of vertical AI into widespread enterprise implementation poses significant hurdles, as noted by venture capitalists investing in these startups.
Thiyagarajan Maruthavanan, co-founder of Upekkha, an AI accelerator for global Indian founders, remarked that even enterprises in the US are proceeding slowly with AI adoption. He indicated that deploying AI involving collaboration among multiple individuals remains a drawn-out process.
The “Pilot-to-Production” Gap
A significant challenge is what Maruthavanan refers to as the “pilot-to-production” gap. Despite strong enthusiasm for AI at the executive level, nearly 90% of enterprise AI initiatives falter before reaching full production.
Moreover, enterprises are exhibiting a cautious wait-and-see approach as AI technology evolves swiftly. Many companies are opting to postpone decisions, hoping for new advancements in the next six months. They possess the budgets and excitement yet exercise restraint.
Deep Engagement with Clients
For AI startups, this cautious sentiment implies that they cannot merely sell software products and expect clients to utilise them effectively. Rather, they are compelled to engage deeply with their clients’ operations.
Prasanna Krishnamoorthy, Managing Partner at Upekkha, noted that founders can no longer build technology and pass it off without further engagement.
Transforming the SaaS Model
This shift is fundamentally altering the traditional Software-as-a-Service model. In conventional SaaS, software providers would deliver tools, leaving customer adoption and impact to the discretion of the users. In the realm of AI, startups are now expected to ensure their technology translates into definitive business benefits.
Investor Perspectives on Vertical AI
These evolving dynamics are also affecting how investors approach funding opportunities in vertical AI startups.
After the launch of ChatGPT, there was considerable uncertainty surrounding investment in SaaS and applications due to the ambiguity over the impact of AI on the business landscape. Shekhar Nair, co-founder and Managing Partner at Upekkha, explained that there is now increasing clarity regarding vertical and domain-focused AI applications, prompting cautious investor interest to return.
The Importance of Differentiation
Nair emphasised that while investors are beginning to re-engage, they are eager to understand how startups will maintain a competitive edge if others develop similar technologies. Differentiation and defensibility are essential considerations.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Vertical AI
Maruthavanan anticipates that the upcoming years will usher in transformative moments for vertical AI, where breakthroughs in various sectors will open up substantial new markets. He asserts that the pivotal moment for developer AI occurred in 2023, and he believes vertical AI is set for similar milestones within the next one to three years.
India is in a prime position to seize this opportunity, thanks to its extensive pool of engineering talent, cost-effective research and development, and experience in cross-border go-to-market strategies. Upekkha has already made several pre-seed investments in vertical AI startups to assist them in navigating this developing landscape.
Ultimately, while India’s vertical AI startups are on the brink of achieving global influence, the widespread adoption within enterprises remains contingent on closing the divide between technical capabilities and practical business outcomes—a challenge that both founders and investors are eager to address.

July 11, 2025
Probo Commits to Full Collaboration Following ED Searches

Probo Addresses Enforcement Directorate Raids and Asset Seizures
Probo, a startup based in Gurugram, has responded publicly following the Enforcement Directorate’s raids that resulted in the seizure of assets valued at Rs 284 crore. The company stated that it is fully cooperating with law enforcement in the ongoing investigation and is optimistic about overcoming these challenges.
Probo’s Commitment to Compliance
A spokesperson for Probo indicated, “In light of recent developments, we would like to assure all stakeholders and the public that Probo is cooperating with law enforcement authorities in the ongoing inquiries.” The company further emphasized its role in developing transformative technology and expressed confidence in India’s regulatory environment.
Trust in India’s Regulatory Framework
Probo expressed its belief in India’s robust regulatory framework, stating, “We remain confident that our commitment to compliance and innovation will help us emerge stronger.” The spokesperson reiterated their trust in the country’s vision for responsible technological advancement.
Probo’s User Base and Platform Offerings
Probo claims to operate a skill-based platform and positions itself as India’s leading information marketplace. The company provided information about its extensive user base, noting that more than 4.2 crore users have accessed its platform. Probo aims to provide wealth creation opportunities that extend beyond conventional financial systems.
User Safety and Trust as Priorities
Further, Probo confirmed its dedication to observing relevant laws and highlighted user safety and trust as its top priorities amidst the ongoing scrutiny. The action taken by the Enforcement Directorate is part of a wider investigation into what has been identified as “illegal online betting operations under the guise of opinion trading,” with Probo being one of several platforms currently under review.
July 10, 2025
Microsoft Reports $500 Million in Savings from AI Implementation Amid Job Cuts

AI Innovations Save Microsoft Over $500 Million
Microsoft has disclosed that its implementation of AI in customer service and engineering has resulted in savings exceeding $500 million, even as the company continues to undergo significant layoffs across various departments. According to a Bloomberg report referencing Chief Commercial Officer Judson Althoff, AI is already yielding measurable enhancements in internal processes, spanning from customer support to software development.
Cost Reductions and Workforce Layoffs
The tech powerhouse based in Redmond recently let go of approximately 9,000 employees, in addition to previous layoffs earlier this year that affected nearly 6,000 personnel. The workforce cuts, impacting teams across engineering, programme management, marketing, design, data science, legal, and support, represent about 4% of Microsoft’s overall workforce.
Records from Washington state, reviewed by the Seattle Times, indicate that 993 of the employees impacted were engineers, while significant portions were from product management (410), programme management (412), and other technical positions.
Concerns Regarding AI and Employment
These workforce reductions have sparked worries about the increasing role of AI in substituting human labour, a concern also shared by Microsoft’s rivals. Executives from Alphabet, Meta, and Salesforce have all commented on how AI tools are now managing substantial parts of internal operations, including code generation and business processes.
AI’s Impact on Productivity Enhancement
Althoff informed employees this week that AI is crucial in transforming Microsoft’s internal productivity. In the company’s call centres alone, AI-driven tools saved over $500 million last year while simultaneously enhancing both customer and employee satisfaction.
Microsoft is also beginning to deploy AI to engage with smaller clients, a strategy Althoff mentioned is already producing tens of millions in revenue. On the development front, AI now comprises 35% of all code written for new Microsoft products, significantly accelerating the time it takes to bring these products to market.
Transformative Tools and Their Benefits
Tools such as GitHub Copilot, which Microsoft reported reached 15 million users by April, are at the forefront of this transformation. The company states that sales teams leveraging its AI-powered Copilot assistant are now completing deals more swiftly, identifying more leads, and generating 9% additional revenue.
While Microsoft maintains that AI was “not a predominant factor” in the recent layoffs, as declared by company President Brad Smith, it is evident that the technology is redefining how tasks are accomplished across the enterprise.
The Broader Implications
Microsoft has committed $80 billion in capital expenditure this fiscal year, with the majority focused on expanding data centres to support its expanding AI framework. The company’s substantial investment in AI reflects a broader movement among major technology firms, which are allocating resources towards automation and machine learning while simultaneously seeking cost-saving measures in other areas.
Despite assurances from Microsoft, its evolving work environment, increasingly driven by AI, raises fresh concerns about the equilibrium between innovation, efficiency, and job security in the era of automation.
July 10, 2025
Flipkart’s Bold Move: Harnessing Short-Form Video, Creator Studios, and AI for Gen Z Commerce

Transforming Online Shopping: Flipkart’s Strategy for Engaging Gen Z
Flipkart is redefining the landscape of online shopping by focusing on India’s most dynamic and influential consumer group: Gen Z. In an exclusive discussion with Business Today, Ramesh Gururaja, Senior Vice President – Consumer Product, Technology and Growth at Flipkart, revealed the company’s innovative approaches involving short-form videos, creator ecosystems, trend mapping, and AI, all aimed at maintaining a competitive edge in the rapidly evolving digital commerce environment.
Understanding Gen Z: Quick Responsiveness Over Short Attention Spans
Contrary to common misconceptions, Gururaja believes Gen Z’s attention spans are not diminishing. He elaborated, stating, “They possess a higher level of intelligence than previous generations. Their content consumption is rapid, characterised by shorter segments and significantly enhanced visual engagement,” emphasising the shift brought about by platforms like Instagram and TikTok.
Recognising that Gen Z is the largest demographic in India, with notable purchasing power and influence within households, Flipkart is evolving its interface and communication methods. This encompasses a bold new app design, immersive visuals, and a communication style that aligns more closely with youth culture. Gururaja commented, “The way we communicate is transforming. My daughter uses terms like ‘bro’; we must adopt the language that resonates with Gen Z.”
From TL;DR to Tappable Video: Revolutionising Product Discovery
Flipkart’s product pages are getting a significant visual refresh, transitioning from detailed specifications to concise, summarised formats. The inclusion of short-form videos, some as short as 10 seconds, is aimed at showcasing not just product features but also potential drawbacks, facilitating trust with younger consumers.
Gururaja noted, “There’s a noticeable change. Consumers are moving beyond simple brand messaging; they desire peer reviews, third-party validation, and influencer content. This video-first strategy is proving effective.”
This approach is particularly evident in lifestyle segments such as fashion and beauty, though Gururaja highlighted increasing video usage in technology categories like air fryers, where simplified explanations of specifications significantly impact purchasing choices.
Creator Marketplace and Studios: Flipkart’s Content Creation Engine
In an effort to democratise content creation, Flipkart has introduced a Content Creator Marketplace, currently in beta testing. This invite-only platform permits aspiring creators to select products, enjoy extended return periods, and earn commissions based on their video content shared on the app.
The company is also focusing on developing physical infrastructure with modular studios in cities across India, providing creators with professional-grade setups. These facilities will be accessible to both creators and sellers, free from restrictions on the content being filmed solely at Flipkart-owned locations.
Gururaja remarked, “We don’t view ourselves as competitors to existing creator spaces. Our aim is to empower every Indian with a smartphone and passion to become a content creator, be it for financial gain, fame, or community involvement.”
Personalised Discovery and the Rise of Local Creators
One of Flipkart’s unique strengths lies in its ability to personalise content. Gururaja mentioned that the platform’s algorithms are tailored to promote videos created by local influencers to audiences in their vicinity, enhancing both relatability and trust. “People resonate more with individuals from their own regions showcasing a product. That’s where the true strength of video commerce is found,” he stated.
The platform also encourages creators by providing constructive feedback and tools for improvement, assisting them in building a following within the Flipkart ecosystem.
Trend-Driven Shopping: Shifting from Search to Shoppable Stories
Flipkart has engineered AI models to detect emerging trends across various online platforms, such as Instagram and Google, and align those trends with its product catalogue in real-time. Once identified, these trends are presented as shoppable highlights within the app.
Gururaja explained, “Our objective is to minimise the interval between spotting a trend and making the appropriate product available on the platform. This will be the next fierce competition in e-commerce.”
A Future Influenced by AI and Conversational Commerce
Looking forward, Gururaja perceives AI as both a significant challenge and a tremendous opportunity. “The traditional shopping experience is evolving; users will no longer scroll endlessly. They will engage in conversations with AI, using natural language and dialects, receiving summarised answers with just three options.”
This transition is set to change the fundamental principles of e-commerce, and Flipkart is getting ready for this shift. “Everything we understood — from search algorithms to product detail pages — is bound to be disrupted,” he indicated.
While specifics of Flipkart’s complete AI strategy remain under wraps, Gururaja acknowledged the unprecedented speed of transformation. “The mobile revolution unfolded over ten years. The AI shift is advancing daily. Although we are still navigating the ‘how,’ the ‘what’ is undeniable — disruption is already upon us.”
Flipkart is not simply adapting to Gen Z; it is being energised by them. From rethinking product presentation to enabling everyday Indians to become content creators, the company is emphasising that a visual-first, localised, and AI-driven approach to commerce represents the future of retail. In Gururaja’s words, that future is “already at our doorstep.”
July 9, 2025
Chai Bisket Secures $5 Million Investment from Infoedge Ventures and General Catalyst to Introduce Chai Shots

Chai Bisket Launches Chai Shots: Revolutionising Microdrama OTT

Chai Shots: A New Microdrama OTT Platform by Chai Bisket
Chai Shots is a regional-first, mobile-only microdrama OTT platform launched by the Hyderabad-based company, Chai Bisket. They have successfully raised $5 million in a seed funding round led by InfoEdge Ventures and General Catalyst.
Investor Participation and Support
This funding round attracted a notable group of angel investors, including Rana Daggubati, co-founders of Swiggy Sri Harsha Majety and Nandan Reddy, redBus founder Phanindra Sama, along with several others including Darwinbox co-founder Rohit Chennamaneni and PhysicsWallah co-founders Alakh Pandey and Prateek. Notably, the co-founders of Rapido and Virgio, Amar Nagaram, also contributed.
Startup Superb originally reported this significant development last month.
Target Audience and Content Structure
Chai Shots focuses on delivering fiction content in two-minute episodes specifically aimed at Gen Z and tier II–III audiences. It emphasises premium storytelling that is emotionally engaging and available in multiple regional languages. The platform is designed primarily for viewing on personal mobile devices and plans to launch first in Telugu, with subsequent expansions planned for Tamil, Malayalam, and Kannada.
Leadership and Original Content Strategy
The platform is guided by co-leaders Sharath Chandra, Anurag Reddy, and Krishna Mohan Varma, the latter joining as a co-founder to oversee the technology vision. Within the first six months, Chai Shots plans to release over 100 original shows. It positions itself as a content-meets-tech platform prioritising fictional narratives in a concise format, differentiating itself from user-generated short video platforms.
Competitive Landscape
Last month, another startup, Flick TV, secured $2.3 million in seed funding from Stellaris Venture Partners, with additional backing from Gemba Capital and Titan Capital. Chai Shots will encounter competition from Kuku FM’s Kuku TV, ShareChat’s QuickTV, as well as Reel Saga and Reelies.

July 9, 2025