Zoho’s top selling products in Qatar are Zoho One, Zoho Books, Zoho People, Zoho Creator, and Zoho Expense.
India’s Zoho opened its first office in Qatar in Doha, following substantial growth in the country.
The company marked a 29 per cent surge in revenue and a 50 per cent expansion of its channel partner network in 2023.
Zoho’s significant growth in Qatar demonstrates a strong demand for its comprehensive cloud-based business applications, driven by a commitment to providing innovative and localised solutions.
Hyther Nizam, President for Zoho Middle East and Africa (MEA), said that they have witnessed a continued growth in Qatar, a market that has consistently demonstrated a strong appetite for innovative technological solutions.
“The vibrant business environment and forward-thinking approach of the local ecosystem have created a fertile ground for our expansion. As Qatar continues to embrace digital transformation, we remain committed to providing cutting-edge solutions that address the evolving needs of businesses and contribute to the nation’s economic prosperity.”
Zoho’s top selling products in Qatar are Zoho One, Zoho Books, Zoho People, Zoho Creator, and Zoho Expense. Zoho recorded revenue growth of 27.5 per cent through channel partners in 2023.
The camera system features a distinctive octagonal design and a comprehensive array of advanced photographic technologies.
Official sale of the Mate XT is on September 20 and is priced between $2,820 for 16GB+256GB model , 16GB+512GB variant for $3,108 and $3,390 for the 16GB+1TB variant.
Huawei Technologies unveiled the world’s first tri-foldable phone, the Mate XT, just hours after Apple launched its iPhone 16.
The innovative device is a significant addition to the rapidly evolving smartphone market and positions Huawei as a formidable competitor against established giants such as Apple.
The timing of this launch, occurring mere hours after Apple’s introduction of the AI-enhanced iPhone 16, underscores Huawei’s strategic intent to capture consumer interest and assert its dominance within the world’s largest smartphone market.
The Mate XT exemplifies groundbreaking design and engineering, with a foldable screen that operates similarly to an accordion, allowing it to function in three distinct configurations.
Huawei’s executive director, Richard Yu, articulated the company’s commitment to innovation, stating, “Today we bring you a product that everyone can think of but could not make.”
World’s thinnest foldable phone
The sentiment reflects the tireless effort of the company’s team over five years, illustrating their ambition to transform imaginative concepts into reality.
The unprecedented nature of this device is underscored by the remarkable achievement of 3.6 million pre-orders, a testament to consumer enthusiasm and market demand, particularly given the limited global market for foldable phones, which reached approximately 4 million units in the second quarter of 2024, according to IDC.
The specifications of the Mate XT further enhance its appeal. Available in striking red and black, the device boasts a 10.2-inch display and a remarkably slim profile of just 3.6mm when fully folded, making it the world’s thinnest foldable phone.
Consumers can utilise the phone in multiple configurations, with 6.4-inch and 7.9-inch screen options to suit varying preferences. Technologically, the Mate XT is equipped with an OLED panel featuring an LTPO adaptive refresh rate, ensuring a smooth visual experience and a high-frequency PWM dimming capability.
Additionally, the device’s robust battery system includes a total capacity of 5,600mAh, complemented by advanced charging options, including a 66W wired charger and 50W wireless charging support.
The camera system is particularly noteworthy, featuring a distinctive octagonal design and a comprehensive array of advanced photographic technologies.
Camera specs
The Mate XT encompasses a 50MP main camera with variable aperture technology, allowing photographers to seamlessly switch between f/1.4 and f/4.0 settings, thus enhancing creative flexibility. Additionally, it includes a 12MP ultra-wide-angle camera and a sophisticated telephoto camera capable of up to 5.5x optical zoom with a stunning 50X digital zoom.
Supported by Huawei’s XMAGE technology, the camera system promises enhanced post-capture image quality, emphasising the company’s dedication to elevating smartphone photography. Furthermore, an 8MP front-facing camera caters to the growing consumer demand for high-quality selfies.
The timing of this launch is pivotal, especially as it coincides with consumer critiques of the iPhone 16, particularly regarding its perceived shortcomings in AI features tailored for the Chinese market. Given the current context of US sanctions against Huawei, the company’s resilience and ability to innovate amidst market restrictions bolster its standing against Apple.
As reported, Apple has not yet secured an AI partner in China for its latest model, which could hinder its competitive edge in a landscape increasingly dominated by advancements in artificial intelligence.
As consumers eagerly anticipate the official sale of the Mate XT on September 20, 2024, the pricing strategy reflects Huawei’s positioning within the premium segment of the smartphone market.
With variants priced between $2,820 for the 16GB+256GB model , 16GB+512GB variant for $3,108 and $3,390 for the 16GB+1TB variant, the Mate XT is set to attract high-end consumers seeking cutting-edge technology.
Tamil Nadu government’s proactive approach to fostering business relations with top-tier multinationals amplifies the state’s manufacturing capabilities.
The announcement by Jabil, a prominent electronic components manufacturer for Apple and many others, based in the United States to establish a manufacturing plant in Tamil Nadu marks a significant milestone in India’s endeavour to position itself as a global manufacturing hub.
The investment in Trichy, amounting to approximately Rs20 billion ($238.2 million), is poised to create nearly 5,000 job opportunities in the region, reflecting not only Jabil’s strategic growth objectives but also India’s increasing importance in the global supply chain, particularly in the technology sector.
The pact was finalised during a meeting in Chicago, attended by Tamil Nadu’s Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, signaling a robust partnership between the US multinational and the Indian state.
Tamil Nadu: A fertile ground
As articulated by Matt Crowley, Jabil’s Executive Vice President for Global Business Units, the expansion in India is expected to cater to evolving customer demands and will serve as a complement to Jabil’s existing facility in Pune.
The initiative underscores an overarching trend where companies, especially those associated with major players like Apple, are seeking to diversify their manufacturing bases beyond China. The ever-growing geopolitical complexities and supply chain vulnerabilities have prompted such strategic decisions.
Tamil Nadu is emerging as a fertile ground for electronics manufacturing, evidenced by its burgeoning ecosystem that now includes all major Apple suppliers—such as Foxconn, Pegatron, and Tata Electronics—along with Jabil.
The establishment of these manufacturing plants forms the backbone of a transformative electronics cluster in Trichy. The clustering effect will not only facilitate knowledge sharing and innovation but also amplify the state’s attractiveness to other global manufacturers considering entry into the Indian market.
Boosting economic growth
Furthermore, the Tamil Nadu government’s proactive approach to fostering business relations with top-tier multinationals amplifies the state’s manufacturing capabilities.
Recent collaborations, including an agreement with Rockwell Automation worth Rs6.66 billion and another undisclosed arrangement with Autodesk, showcase the government’s commitment to nurturing a robust industrial landscape.
These investments collectively contribute to the state’s vision of becoming a premier destination for technological innovation, research, and development.
In addition to manufacturing, the state is diversifying its technological landscape through initiatives such as Nokia’s plans to set up one of the largest fixed network test beds globally at SIPCOT, Siruseri, Chengalpattu.
The facility, with an investment of Rs450 crore, is aimed at advancing innovations in areas such as 10G, 25G, 50G, and 100G passive optical networks, signifying a broader commitment to harnessing technology for economic growth.
Bengaluru-based startup’s ambitious plans include expanding its constellation to 24 satellites, which will further enhance the availability and accessibility of hyperspectral data on a commercial scale.
The Indian space sector has undergone a remarkable transformation since its liberalisation in 2020, paving the way for private companies to contribute significantly to space exploration and technology.
Among the trailblazers in this burgeoning industry is Bengaluru-based startup Pixxel, which has recently secured a prestigious contract with NASA as part of its $476-million commercial small satellite data acquisition programme.
The achievement marks a significant milestone, not only for Pixxel but also for the Indian space startup ecosystem, as it is the first contract awarded to an Indian startup under this initiative.
Pixxel’s co-founder and CEO, Awais Ahmed, hailed the contract as a “monumental achievement,” emphasising the importance of hyperspectral imaging technology in the realm of Earth observation.
The contract, which is valid until November 2028, underscores the growing recognition of hyperspectral imaging as a crucial tool for monitoring the health of our planet.
Generation of detailed insights
By providing NASA and its partners with hyperspectral Earth observation data, Pixxel is poised to enhance the administration’s Earth science research and application activities, thereby contributing to a more comprehensive understanding of global environmental challenges.
Hyperspectral imaging is a cutting-edge technology that captures data across hundreds of narrow wavelengths.
The capability allows for the generation of detailed insights into various critical areas, including climate change, agriculture, biodiversity, and resource management. The ability to analyse data across over 250 spectral bands positions Pixxel’s satellites as invaluable assets for stakeholders in diverse sectors.
Fireflies
With a swath width of 40 kilometres and a 24-hour revisit frequency, Pixxel’s upcoming satellites, known as Fireflies, will be the highest-resolution hyperspectral satellites ever launched.
The unprecedented resolution will enable the detection, monitoring, and prediction of critical global phenomena with up to 50 times richer detail than currently available technologies.
In addition to its satellite endeavours, Pixxel is also committed to democratising access to satellite imagery analysis through its in-house Earth Observation Studio, Aurora.
The platform aims to make complex satellite data more accessible to a broader range of users, including governments and industries, thereby fostering informed decision-making based on real-time environmental data.
The company’s ambitious plans include expanding its constellation to 24 satellites, which will further enhance the availability and accessibility of hyperspectral data on a commercial scale.
Pixxel’s success is not solely attributed to its innovative technology but also to the robust financial backing it has received from prominent investors, including Google, Lightspeed, and Accenture.
With over $70 million raised, the company is well-positioned to accelerate its growth and continue its mission of providing cutting-edge Earth observation solutions.
Stakeholders in the automotive sector are cognizant of their obligation to foster localisation.
Move to reduce imports from 60% to 20% by 2025 likely to translate savings of Rs20,000 to Rs25,000 crore over five years.
The Indian automotive industry is undergoing a transformative phase that not only underscores its resounding growth but also highlights its pivotal role in the nation’s economic aspirations.
As reported in the fiscal year 2024 (FY24), the domestic automotive sector has crossed an impressive valuation of Rs20 trillion. Pawan Goenka, Chairman of IN-SPACe, delineates a robust future trajectory, suggesting that this industry has the potential to soar to a staggering $1.6 trillion (Rs134 trillion) by the year 2047.
The ambitious projection is significantly anchored in the burgeoning electric vehicle (EV) market, aligning with India′s broader goals of achieving a $32 trillion GDP by the same year.
The automotive sector is not merely a contributor to the economy; it is fast becoming one of the key engines driving growth within the Indian context.
Reducing import dependence
Goenka emphasises that the industry, currently responsible for around 6.8 per cent of the GDP, is poised for an even greater impact. Over the past two decades, the industry has exhibited a remarkable compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 17 per cent, indicating not only resilience but also a capacity to adapt and innovate.
The strategic focus on electric vehicles is expected to play a pivotal role in this evolving narrative.
With a pronounced shift toward sustainable transportation solutions, leaders within the industry, such as Vinod Aggarwal, President of the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM), assert the necessity for India to enhance its capabilities in high-tech components crucial for the production of EVs.
To this effect, the domestic automotive industry has identified 50 critical components for local production, aimed at reducing import dependence.
The initiative signifies a broader strategy to fortify the supply chain and build indigenous capabilities, especially in electrical and electronic components.
The impact of the automotive industry extends beyond mere economic figures; it also significantly contributes to employment generation, creating numerous direct and indirect job opportunities across various skill levels.
A proactive approach
The aspect is vital in the context of India’s burgeoning workforce, wherein job creation must keep pace with population growth and urbanization.
Moreover, the stakeholders in the automotive sector are cognizant of their obligation to foster localisation.
The targets set by SIAM and the Automotive Component Manufacturers Association (ACMA) to reduce import content from 60 per cent to 20 per cent by 2025 reflect a proactive approach to enhance domestic manufacturing capabilities and instill greater self-reliance within the economy.
The strategy is expected to result in a substantial reduction in imports, translating to savings of Rs20,000 to Rs25,000 crore over five years.
India’s automotive landscape is currently marked by its status as the third-largest passenger vehicle market globally, the largest market for two and three-wheelers, and the third-largest commercial vehicle market. Such rankings not only affirm the industry’s robust growth but also its competitiveness on a global scale.
The development could catalyse a more extensive transition towards sustainable mobility solutions, further bolstering the automotive sector’s contribution to the economy.
iPhone 16 series, available for pre-order from September 13 and set for official sale on September 20.
Health-focused capabilities are not limited to Series 10; the Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 will also adopt sleep apnea tracking.
Apple unveiled its much-anticipated iPhone 16 series, which comprises the iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, and iPhone 16 Pro Max, alongside the Watch Series 10, a new Watch Ultra, and an updated AirPods lineup at its Apple Glowtime Event 2024..
The launch marks a significant milestone in Apple’s trajectory, as superior technological advancements have been incorporated, likely influencing consumer purchasing decisions.
The iPhone 16 series, available for pre-order from September 13 and set for official sale on September 20, is poised to dominate the market.
The standard models, the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus, have received notable upgrades that enhance their appeal. Both devices feature an elegant design crafted from “aerospace-grade aluminum” and are adorned with a new colour-infused backglass, available in shades of ultramarine, teal, pink, white, and black.
The iPhone 16 boasts a 6.1-inch display, while the iPhone 16 Plus sports a substantial 6.7-inch screen. With exceptional peak brightness of 2000 nits and the capability to dim to as low as 1 nit in shadowy environments, these models promise a visually impressive experience.
The iPhone 16 Pro has a 6.3-inch display while the iPhone 16 Pro Max boasts a 6.9-inch screen, the largest ever on an iPhone.
Both models have thinner borders and always-on 120Hz ProMotion displays. The Pro models are available in Black Titanium, White Titanium, Natural Titanium, and a new Desert Titanium colour.
Both models are powered by the advanced A18 Pro chipset, built on 2nd-gen 3nm transistors. Apple claims the new chip features a 6-core GPU, running 20 per cent faster than the A17 Pro.
It has 2 performance cores and 4 efficiency cores, delivering up to 15 per cent faster performance while using 20 per cent less power. The A18 Pro also includes next-gen machine learning accelerators, faster USB 3 speeds, and ProRes video recording support.
A groundbreaking addition to the standard iPhone 16 models is the Action Button, which grants users rapid access to various functions such as recording voice memos, identifying songs, or translating phrases.
The customisable nature of this feature allows for shortcuts and in-app functionalities like car locking via the FordPass app. Furthermore, the introduction of an innovative camera control button provides enhanced photography capabilities, allowing users to capture images and videos with an unprecedented level of ease and precision.
This button, protected by sapphire glass, supports advanced touch gestures that facilitate an intuitive user experience.
Powerful chipset
Underpinning the performance of the iPhone 16 is Apple’s latest A18 chip, constructed using second-generation 3nm technology.
The powerful chipset, featuring a 6-core CPU with a combination of efficiency and performance cores, promises a notable 30 percent increase in performance over its predecessor, the A16 Bionic. Alongside this upgrade, the iPhone 16 series is equipped with a robust camera system.
The 48-megapixel main camera integrates both 48MP and 12MP photographs into clearer 24MP images. Additionally, a new 12MP ultra-wide camera, with larger apertures and improved light sensitivity, ensures sharper imagery.
Among the highlights of the iPhone 16 series is the incorporation of artificial intelligence (AI) functionality, designed to generate and comprehend languages and visuals seamlessly. Apple assures consumers that this data is processed within a framework focused on user privacy, utilizing private cloud computing and verifiable privacy protocols.
Pricing for the iPhone 16 series reflects Apple’s positioning in the premium smartphone market. The iPhone 16 is offered at a starting price of $799 (approximately Rs67,000), with the iPhone 16 Plus priced at $899 (around Rs75,500).
The Pro models, reflecting their advanced features, commence at $999 (or about Rs83,870 for the iPhone 16 Pro) and can reach up to Rs1,44,900 for the iPhone 16 Pro Max in India.
AirPods 4
The AirPods 4, equipped with the cutting-edge H2 chip, represent a significant advancement in Apple’s auditory offerings. This new chip empowers the AirPods 4 to deliver superior audio quality with enhanced low-end bass and clearer treble.
Such improvements cater to audiophiles and casual listeners alike, ensuring an immersive listening experience that transcends previous models. A standout feature of the AirPods 4 is the inclusion of Personalised Spatial Audio, which allows users to enjoy a more three-dimensional soundstage tailored to their hearing preferences.
The feature is emblematic of Apple’s ongoing focus on personalization, catering to individual user experiences in a way that is both innovative and accessible.
Moreover, the AirPods 4 are presented in a compact USB-C case, reflecting a broader industry shift towards this universal charging standard. Priced at $129, with a noise−cancelling variant available $179, these earbuds offer a compelling balance of quality and affordability.
In conjunction with these new releases, Apple has also updated its AirPods Max line, now available in eye-catching colours such as midnight, blue, purple, orange, and starlight. Priced at $549, the AirPods Max continue to cater to premium segment consumers while enhancing their aesthetic appeal.
Apple Watch Series 10
On the wearable technology front, the Apple Watch Series 10 emerges as a paradigm of innovation and practicality.
Featuring a larger and brighter OLED display that is 40 per cent brighter and 10 per cent thinner, this new iteration emphasises visibility and design refinement, making it more user-friendly in diverse lighting conditions.
The Series 10 introduces polished Titanium, transitioning from stainless steel, thereby elevating both the look and feel of the device. This adaptation not only enhances aesthetics but also aligns with Apple’s sustainability initiatives by incorporating more durable materials.
Furthermore, the Series 10 is powered by the new S10 chipset, which includes a 4-core Neural Engine, augmenting the device’s processing capabilities and overall performance. Significantly, this model incorporates advanced health-tracking features, most notably sleep apnea detection.
The innovative functionality is a crucial addition, as it leverages the enhanced ECG capabilities of the smartwatch to provide critically needed health insights for users, reflecting a growing trend in wearables towards comprehensive health monitoring.
Interestingly, these health-focused capabilities are not limited to Series 10; the Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 will also adopt sleep apnea tracking, thus expanding the health frontier across Apple’s smartwatch ecosystem.
The Apple Watch Ultra 2, while remaining largely unchanged in terms of function, is now available in a new Satin Black Titanium colorway, adding to the allure of this high-performance device.
The subtle refinement caters to consumers who value aesthetics alongside functionality, reinforcing Apple’s core philosophy of combining beauty with utility.
