Category: TechPulse

TechPulse

Vodafone Idea Launches “Non Stop Hero” Plan with Truly Unlimited Data & OTT Benefits

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Vodafone Idea (Vi) has unveiled its latest Non Stop Hero Plan, a new offering aimed at users who demand uninterrupted internet access and entertainment benefits. The telecom operator says the plan focuses on delivering truly unlimited data without daily usage limits, alongside unlimited voice calling and SMS benefits.

The Non Stop Hero Plan has been introduced as part of Vi’s strategy to cater to India’s growing appetite for high-speed connectivity, video streaming, and gaming. Unlike traditional prepaid plans that restrict data through daily caps, this new offering allows users to stay connected throughout the day without worrying about exhausting their quota.

Select recharge packs under the Non Stop Hero portfolio also bundle OTT subscriptions, enabling customers to access digital entertainment platforms as part of their telecom plan. The move reflects the broader industry trend of combining connectivity with content to enhance value for subscribers.

According to company announcements, the Non Stop Hero range is designed primarily for personal use and aims to provide a seamless digital experience for students, professionals, and heavy data consumers. The plans include unlimited voice calls, daily SMS allowances, and multiple validity options, depending on the recharge value.

Industry observers note that telecom operators are increasingly shifting toward unlimited or high-capacity data plans as user behaviour evolves toward video-first consumption and always-on connectivity. With OTT integration becoming a major selling point, Vi’s new plan positions itself as a lifestyle-driven telecom solution rather than just a data pack.

TechPulse

DITE&C Sensitizes Officials on Cyber Hygiene and Responsible AI Use on Safer Internet Day

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Written by Intern Rency Gomes ||Team Allycaral 

Altinho, February 10, 2026: Marking Safer Internet Day, the Department of Information Technology, Electronics & Communications (DITE&C) organised an awareness session at the IT Hub, Altinho, Panaji, to sensitise government officials about growing cyber threats, online vulnerabilities, and safe digital practices.


The session was held under the theme “Smart Tech, Safe Choices – Exploring the Safe and Responsible Use of AI” and aimed to promote cyber hygiene and responsible engagement with emerging technologies.

Addressing the gathering, Sanjeev Ahuja, IAS, Secretary of IT, emphasised that internet safety is a shared responsibility. He noted that awareness initiatives are essential to empower government officials, citizens, and youth to recognise digital risks and contribute to building a secure online ecosystem.

Kabir Shirgaonkar, Director of DITE&C, highlighted the importance of responsible online behaviour in an era of increasing screen time and rapid AI adoption. He stated that as Goa progresses towards digital empowerment, ensuring protection against cyber threats and consistently practising safe online habits remains crucial.

Dr. Milind Sakhardande, Joint Director, DITE&C, welcomed the participants and encouraged them to apply the knowledge gained to strengthen digital security in their respective roles.

The session was conducted by Sharda Katare, Head of the State e-Governance Mission Team (SeMT), Goa, as part of the nationwide Safer Internet Day campaign led by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY). The workshop featured video-based learning modules, discussions on key cyber threats, mitigation strategies, and responsible AI usage. Participants also shared personal experiences related to online fraud, making the session interactive and practical.

Fiona D’costa, Assistant Director, DITE&C, proposed the vote of thanks.

Through such initiatives, DITE&C reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening Goa’s digital ecosystem by promoting safe internet practices and responsible AI adoption among officials and citizens alike.

TechPulse

DITE&C Announces Statewide AI Hackathon to Strengthen Public Service Delivery

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Written by Intern Rency Gomes ||Team Allycaral 

The Department of Information Technology, Electronics & Communications (DITE&C) has announced the launch of a statewide AI Hackathon as part of the Goa AI Mission 2027, marking a significant step towards integrating Artificial Intelligence into governance and public service delivery across the state.


The AI Hackathon aims to encourage the adoption of ethical and responsible Artificial Intelligence solutions to address real-world governance challenges. The initiative focuses on improving efficiency, transparency and citizen-centric service delivery by leveraging emerging technologies within government systems.

Under the programme, government departments, corporations, autonomous bodies and local authorities have been invited to submit problem statements based on their day-to-day operational challenges. These problem statements will identify areas where AI-based interventions can support automated verification processes, early identification of missing or incorrect information, and timely delivery of benefits to eligible citizens.

Following a detailed scrutiny and evaluation of the submitted problem statements, DITE&C will facilitate the development of AI-powered solutions tailored to the specific needs of departments. Selected solutions will be designed to enhance operational efficiency and strengthen service delivery mechanisms.

The Goa AI Hackathon builds on the success of the Goa Open Innovation Challenge 2025, which invited startups and student innovators to address high-impact governance challenges. The initiative received strong participation from across the country, reflecting growing interest in technology-driven public sector innovation.

Through initiatives such as the AI Hackathon, DITE&C continues to advance the vision of a digitally empowered Goa by fostering innovation, encouraging collaboration and integrating emerging technologies to improve public service delivery and governance outcomes.

TechPulse

Apple Reportedly Planning Starlink Connectivity for iPhone 18 Pro

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Apple may be preparing its boldest leap yet in smartphone connectivity. According to a report by The Information, the tech giant is in discussions with SpaceX to integrate Starlink satellite connectivity into the upcoming iPhone 18 Pro, with a potential launch timeline set for 2026.

If finalized, the partnership could allow future iPhones to connect directly to Starlink’s low-Earth orbit satellite network, significantly improving connectivity in remote, rural, and disaster-prone regions where traditional cellular networks struggle.

Apple has already introduced limited satellite-based emergency SOS features on recent iPhone models, but integrating Starlink would mark a major expansion — potentially enabling messaging, data access, or even calls beyond conventional mobile coverage.

The report suggests discussions are still ongoing, and details around functionality, pricing, and regional availability remain unclear. However, such a move would align with Apple’s broader strategy of enhancing device independence while strengthening its ecosystem of safety and connectivity features.

Neither Apple nor SpaceX has officially commented on the report, but the prospect has sparked excitement across the tech world, positioning the iPhone 18 Pro as a potential game-changer in the global smartphone market.

As satellite-to-phone technology gains momentum, Apple’s entry into the space could accelerate adoption and redefine how users stay connected — anywhere on Earth.

TechPulse

Apple Launches Second-Generation AirTag with Enhanced Precision, Louder Alerts and Watch Support

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Apple has officially introduced the second-generation AirTag, delivering meaningful upgrades while preserving the familiar coin-shaped design and original pricing. The new AirTag features a next-generation Ultra Wideband (UWB) chip, extending Precision Finding range by nearly 50%, making it easier than ever to locate misplaced items.

One of the most notable enhancements is the louder built-in speaker, which can now be heard from twice the distance compared to the previous model—particularly useful in noisy environments or when tracking items indoors. Apple has also improved Bluetooth connectivity, ensuring more reliable detection and faster responses.

For the first time, Precision Finding can now be accessed directly from compatible Apple Watches, including the Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2, without requiring an iPhone nearby. This marks a significant step forward in Apple’s ecosystem integration and convenience for users on the move.

Despite the upgrades, Apple has kept the price unchanged at $29, continues to offer free engraving, and ensures compatibility with existing AirTag accessories and cases. Software updates released yesterday fully enable the new features, with shipments expected to begin later this week.

With smarter tracking, deeper ecosystem support and no price increase, the second-generation AirTag strengthens Apple’s leadership in personal item tracking technology