Category: TechPulse

TechPulse

Goa’s Tech Leader Mangirish Salelkar Speaks at 8th Global AI Leadership Meet

Tanisha Cardozo

In a proud moment for Goa’s growing tech ecosystem, Mangirish Salelkar, CEO & Co-Founder of Umang Software, took center stage as a key speaker at the ‘AI for India’ – 8th Global AI Leadership Meet. The prestigious forum brought together thought leaders, global tech companies, and policymakers to shape the future of Artificial Intelligence in India and beyond.

Speaking on the global platform, Mr. Salelkar highlighted the transformative role of AI across sectors — from revolutionizing healthcare and modernizing businesses to creating smarter governance systems. With practical insights and a vision rooted in innovation, he emphasized the need for India to lead responsibly and inclusively in the AI age.

One of the major highlights of his address was the introduction of the Goa AI Mission — an ambitious initiative designed to position Goa as a leading hub for AI-powered innovation, talent development, entrepreneurship, and sustainability. The mission aims to:

  • Establish AI research and development clusters in Goa
  • Foster AI education and training for youth and professionals
  • Promote startup incubation and tech entrepreneurship
  • Collaborate with national and global tech players

“Goa has the talent, infrastructure, and vision to become a meaningful contributor to India’s AI future. The Goa AI Mission is our collective blueprint for inclusive tech-driven growth,” Mr. Salelkar stated.

This event reinforces Goa’s presence on the national and global innovation map, with leaders like Mangirish Salelkar driving bold ideas that combine technology, vision, and impact.

TechPulse

Apple to Open Third India Retail Store at Hebbal, Bengaluru on September 2

Tanisha Cardozo

Apple is set to launch Apple Hebbal, its third official retail store in India, on September 2, 2025, at the newly developed Phoenix Mall of Asia in North Bengaluru. This move represents Apple’s deepening commitment to the Indian market and solidifies Bengaluru as Apple’s largest operational hub outside Cupertino, California.

The store is more than just a place to shop. At Apple Hebbal, customers will experience the full range of Apple’s products, receive support from Specialists, Geniuses, and Business teams, and take part in Today at Apple sessions — free, educational events led by Apple Creatives. These sessions empower users with skills in photography, art, coding, and even Apple Intelligence.

Visually, the store is a celebration of Indian culture. The barricade artwork, revealed ahead of the opening, features vibrant feathers inspired by the Peacock — India’s national bird and a symbol of pride. It sets the tone for a unique customer experience rooted in both innovation and cultural identity.

Apple’s growing India presence extends far beyond its retail outlets. The company and its partners have leased nearly 1 million sq ft of real estate in Mumbai and Bengaluru since 2023, including large-format offices and premium retail space. Recent deals include:

  • 268,737 sq ft leased at Embassy Zenith, Sankey Road (office space)
  • 11,000 sq ft for the Apple Hebbal store
  • Over 410,000 sq ft at Prestige Mink Square, Cubbon Road — one of the largest single-location leases in the city

As India’s role grows not just as a consumption hub but also as a key manufacturing and innovation base for Apple, the opening of Apple Hebbal marks a significant chapter in the brand’s journey here.

📍 Don’t miss the opening on September 2 at Phoenix Mall of Asia, North Bengaluru.

TechPulse

Apple to Manufacture All iPhone 17 Models in India for the First Time

allycaralgoa

In a groundbreaking move, Apple has announced that its entire iPhone 17 lineup will be manufactured in India, marking the first time in history that the company will produce a full generation of iPhones outside China.

This decision reflects Apple’s broader strategy to diversify its global supply chain and reduce dependence on a single market, while also strengthening India’s position as a hub for advanced electronics manufacturing.

Over the past few years, Apple has gradually expanded production in India through its suppliers Foxconn, Wistron, and Pegatron. The shift to manufacturing all iPhone 17 models in India highlights the country’s growing capabilities and importance in Apple’s long-term vision.

Industry experts believe this milestone will not only boost local employment and investments but also reinforce India’s Make in India initiative, making the country a key player in global high-tech manufacturing.

With the iPhone 17 expected to launch in 2026, this decision ensures India will play a pivotal role in Apple’s most advanced smartphones yet.

TechPulse

OpenAI Introduces Local Pricing for ChatGPT in India, Users Can Now Pay in Rupees

allycaralgoa

August 16, 2025 | New Delhi: In a move set to boost accessibility and adoption, OpenAI has started testing local pricing for ChatGPT in India, allowing users to pay directly in Indian rupees (INR) for the first time.

Until now, Indian users subscribing to ChatGPT Plus or other premium offerings had to make payments in US dollars. With this update, billing and transactions will be available in local currency, removing barriers related to conversion charges and international payment gateways.

Industry experts view this decision as a strategic step towards expanding OpenAI’s footprint in India, one of the world’s fastest-growing AI and digital technology markets. With millions of students, professionals, and enterprises adopting AI tools, local pricing could accelerate adoption and strengthen OpenAI’s user base.

OpenAI has not yet confirmed whether this is a pilot phase or a permanent rollout, but the test indicates strong intent to deepen engagement in India.

India has been a key market for AI adoption, with a rapidly growing number of users relying on ChatGPT for education, content creation, research, business operations, and personal productivity.

By removing payment frictions and aligning with local currency needs, OpenAI is positioning itself at the center of India’s digital innovation wave.

TechPulse

Samsung Replaces Apple as the Number One Brand in India’s Premium Smartphone Market in Q2 2025

allycaralgoa

In a significant market shift, Samsung has overtaken Apple to become the number one brand in India’s premium smartphone segment during the second quarter of 2025. According to industry trackers, Samsung’s strong performance was fueled by the popularity of its flagship Galaxy S24 series, which resonated with Indian consumers for its cutting-edge features, AI capabilities, and competitive pricing.

The premium smartphone market, defined as devices priced above ₹30,000, has long been dominated by Apple, thanks to its aspirational iPhone lineup. However, Samsung’s focus on innovation, aggressive marketing, and wider availability across offline and online channels gave it the edge this quarter.

Experts highlight that Apple’s market share faced pressure due to limited availability of the iPhone 15 series and anticipation for the upcoming iPhone 16 launch later this year. Meanwhile, Samsung capitalized on the gap, recording impressive sales across metros and Tier-1 cities.

Industry analysts believe this shift indicates the growing competition in India’s high-end smartphone category, with brands like OnePlus and Vivo also strengthening their premium offerings.

As the festive season approaches, the battle between Samsung and Apple is expected to intensify, making the Indian premium smartphone market one to watch closely.