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Researchers Find A Smart Way To Convert Grass Into Aviation Fuel

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Scientists and researchers at Ghent University in Belgium found a smart way to convert grass into aviation fuel. The biofuel obtained by this process is named as ‘Grassoline’ and there are hopes that this will be able to power an aircraft one day.

As you all know that it takes millions of years by natural processes to convert plants into crude oil (which is known as gasoline). But now researchers had developed a unique technique which definitely does not take millions of years to produce gasoline (or probably gasoline.)

How does it all happen?

  • The bacterial treatment of grass makes it more biodegradable. Enriched clostridium bacteria is added to it which helps it in fermentation. This leads to the lactic acid formation.
  • This lactic acid is used to obtain an acid named caproic acid.
  • This caproic acid was further treated to create decade which is a primary ingredient of jet fuel and gasoline. This grassoline is little denser than the commercial aviation fuels.

Work in progress!

As jet planes need a relatively light fuel, a process of converting this denser fuels into lighter ones is still going on. Currently, the amount of fuel obtained from grass is relatively less, may be limited to a few drops.

“We have been working on this to optimize the process, in cooperation with the business world, we can get the price down. In few years, we can fly on grass,” says Way Cern Khor, a researcher at the Centre For Microbial Ecology and Technology (CMET.)

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Jio Unveils Cloud PC Service to Bring Affordable Computing to Indian Households

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Startup Stories
  • Jio Platforms has launched JioPC, a cloud-based virtual desktop service that transforms any television connected to a Jio Set Top Box into a fully functional computer.
  • Users simply connect a keyboard and mouse to access a desktop-like environment, complete with web browsing, productivity tools, and educational apps—all without needing a physical PC or extra hardware.
  • The service is device-agnostic and works with all consumer PC brands, making advanced computing accessible and affordable for millions across India.

JioPC is designed to support a wide range of activities, from professional work to online learning and creative projects. By leveraging Jio’s robust cloud infrastructure, users can run even compute-intensive AI applications directly from their TV screens. The platform also ensures data security and reliability, as all files and settings are safely stored in the cloud, protecting users from data loss even if their device is reset or replaced.

With JioPC, Jio aims to democratize digital access and bring high-performance computing to Indian households at a fraction of the traditional cost. The service supports popular productivity suites like LibreOffice and Microsoft Office online, and Jio is offering a free trial to encourage users to experience the benefits firsthand. This innovative move is set to reshape how people in India work, learn, and connect in the digital age.

 

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WhatsApp Introduces Ads in Updates Tab, Keeps Chats Ad-Free

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Meta has officially begun rolling out ads on WhatsApp, ending over a decade of an ad-free experience since its acquisition in 2014. The advertisements will appear only in the Updates tab, specifically within the Status feature, which lets users share photos, videos, and text updates that disappear after 24 hours—similar to Instagram Stories.

Where Ads Will Appear

  • Ads will be visible exclusively in the Status section of the Updates tab, keeping personal and group chats ad-free.
  • Businesses can use these ads to encourage users to interact via WhatsApp messaging.
  • Meta is also introducing paid channel subscriptions and promoted channels within the Updates tab, allowing users to access premium content and discover new channels more easily.

Privacy and Targeting

Meta has emphasized that private messages, calls, and group chats will remain end-to-end encrypted and free from advertising. Ads will be personalized using limited, non-sensitive data such as location, language, followed channels, and ad interactions. Users can further manage ad preferences if they link WhatsApp to Meta’s Accounts Center.

User and Business Impact

The move marks a major shift for WhatsApp, which has long resisted advertising to preserve a clean messaging experience. While some users have criticized the change, Meta sees this as a significant opportunity to monetize WhatsApp’s 3 billion users and over 200 million businesses on the platform.

In summary, WhatsApp’s new ads will be confined to the Updates tab, ensuring personal messaging remains private and uninterrupted, while opening new monetization avenues for Meta and businesses.

 

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WhatsApp on iPad: The Long-Awaited Native Experience

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What's App StartupStories

After years of anticipation, WhatsApp has officially launched a dedicated app for the iPad, finally giving users a seamless and optimized messaging experience on Apple’s popular tablet. Previously, iPad users had to rely on the web version, which lacked many features and was not designed for the larger screen. Now, with the arrival of WhatsApp for iPad, users can enjoy all the core messaging and calling features in a native, iPadOS-optimized environment.

How to Get Started with WhatsApp on iPad

Setting up WhatsApp on your iPad is straightforward. Simply download the app from the App Store, open it, and scan the displayed QR code using your smartphone’s WhatsApp app to link your account. This process mirrors the setup for WhatsApp Web and Desktop, ensuring your chats, calls, and media stay in sync across devices. The iPad app supports all key features, including individual and group chats, Communities, Channels, and both audio and video calls for up to 32 participants.

Enhanced Features and Multitasking

WhatsApp for iPad is designed to take full advantage of the tablet’s capabilities. It features a two-column layout, with recent chats on the left and active conversations on the right, making multitasking easier and more intuitive. The app supports iPadOS multitasking features such as Split View, Slide Over, and Stage Manager (on compatible models), allowing users to keep WhatsApp open while using other apps. Additionally, it works seamlessly with accessories like the Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil, boosting productivity and creativity.

Privacy and Security

All messages, calls, and media remain protected with WhatsApp’s industry-leading end-to-end encryption, ensuring privacy and security across all linked devices. The iPad app also includes privacy features like chat lock, giving users peace of mind even if they share their device with others.

Conclusion

The launch of WhatsApp on iPad marks a significant milestone for Meta and its users. With a native, feature-rich app designed for the iPad’s larger screen and advanced multitasking capabilities, WhatsApp is now more accessible and convenient than ever for iPad owners worldwide. This move also signals Meta’s commitment to expanding its ecosystem, with rumors suggesting Instagram may be next in line for a dedicated iPad app. For now, WhatsApp on iPad stands as a welcome upgrade, enhancing how millions stay connected.

 

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