If you tuned into Apple’s Worldwide Developer’s Conference for major game changing software updates, then the new features might be a tad bit disappointing. With that being said, the features introduced for the new iOS updates are a class act. Here are all the updates announced at the WWDC 2018 Conference!
1. Screen Time
Similar to Google and Android phones, Apple is working at increasing the balance between gadgets and life. The new Screen Time feature details about how much time is spent on the screen and individual devices. The new feature breaks down how much time is spent on individual apps, including games and texting apps! Screen Time will provide you with a weekly summary of how you use your phone. Furthermore, you can set time limits on each individual and once the time is up, a time’s up” message will display when the counter runs out. Apple is also introducing a parental control feature, giving parents the ability to reduce their kid’s screen time.
2. Memoji: Custom Emojis
The new Animoji features were first introduced to the Apple X. Starting with the iOS, Animoji will be able to detect your expression when you stick your tongue out at the camera. Apple terms the new emoji update feature as Memoji. With the new updates, users will not only be able to personalize the emoticons, they will also be able to change the face colour and customise as per requirement. The new updates are a cross between Bitmoji and Nintendo’s Mil characters.
3. Group Facetime
Taking Apple’s coveted Facetime feature a notch higher, iOS 12 has introduced an update called group Facetime sessions. According to the new update, almost 32 people will be able to Facetime at the same time. When multiple people are on a call, their video windows will get larger when they’re speaking and shrink when they’re not. For conversations where your face feels a little boring, you’ll be able to use Animoji and Memoji characters during calls.
4. Improved Augmented Reality Experience
The new iOS software promises improved augmented reality experiences. The Apple team is introducing a new file format called USDZ, a feature similar to the software being used by Adobe, Autodesk, and Sketchfab.
5. Measure APP
The Measure APP is Apple’s coolest new feature. As the name suggests, the app lets you accurately measure surfaces around you. Place the frame around the object needed measuring and the app accurately gives you the measurements you are after.
6. Pictures
The Photos App in iOS 12 will automatically offer search suggestions. With the “For You” tab, the new update offers suggestions based on earlier filters used. Furthermore, friends with pictures from similar events and places will be prompted to share their images as well.
7. Shortcuts App
The new Shortcuts App comes as a blessing in disguise for i Phone users. The app lets you string together multiple actions which can be prompted by a customised Siri request.
8. iBooks Become Apple Books
Apple is rebranding its ebook app from iBooks to Apple Books. Along with the name change comes a refreshed design that focuses on discoverability. A new Book Store tab “makes it easy to explore new titles and browse the top charts, curated collections, and special offers,” according to Apple.
The new features promise an improvement in the performance as opposed to improving the apps already available. The new iOS software is expected to roll out in November this year!
Inkers Technology, a leading AI-powered construction technology startup, has successfully raised $3 million in a Series A funding round led by prominent investor Ashish Kacholia’s Lucky Investments. This funding will be instrumental in accelerating the company’s growth, expanding its team, and enhancing its innovative AI-powered platform, Observance.
How Observance Works
Observance is designed to transform the construction industry by automating complex data processing tasks and providing actionable insights. The platform leverages advanced AI algorithms to process vast amounts of construction data, including:
Point Cloud Data: Captured from laser scans of construction sites.
Images: Photographic evidence of site conditions.
BIM Models: Building Information Modeling data that represents the physical and functional characteristics of facilities.
Project Schedules: Timelines that outline project milestones and deadlines.
Key Features
With Observance, construction teams can:
Identify Defects Early: The platform detects and prioritizes potential issues such as water seepage, concrete defects, and structural problems.
Streamline Workflows: Automates routine tasks and optimizes resource allocation to enhance efficiency.
Accelerate Project Delivery: Reduces project timelines and minimizes costly delays through improved planning and execution.
Improve Decision-Making: Provides valuable insights that enable informed decisions throughout the project lifecycle.
A Proven Track Record
Inkers Technology has already made significant strides in the industry, with its platform deployed across 150+ construction sites in major Indian cities such as Bengaluru, Delhi NCR, Kolkata, Chennai, and Hyderabad. Observance has processed over 2 petabytes of data, identifying more than 40,000 defects, which has saved clients millions of dollars in potential rework costs.
The unique approach of Observance sets it apart from traditional methods. It can quickly scan large areas—up to 100,000 square feet per hour—and generate accurate as-built 3D models, thermal maps, and detailed reports within 24 to 48 hours. This efficiency drastically reduces the time required for project planning and execution compared to conventional practices.
Future Growth Plans
The newly acquired capital will be utilized to further enhance Observance’s capabilities and expand its reach within the construction industry. Inkers Technology aims to drive digital transformation by solving critical challenges faced by infrastructure projects across India and beyond. The company plans to enhance its product offerings by integrating more advanced features such as real-time analytics and automated reporting tools.
Founders’ Vision
Co-founded by Rohan Shravan, Manish Giri, and Srikanth Kannada, Inkers Technology is committed to leveraging cutting-edge technologies like computer vision, deep learning, and hardware-level acceleration to optimize construction processes. Their vision is to create a more efficient and sustainable construction environment through innovative AI solutions.
Conclusion
With this fresh infusion of capital, Inkers Technology is well-positioned to revolutionize the construction industry and shape the future of building and infrastructure. By harnessing the power of AI through its Observance platform, the company not only enhances operational efficiencies but also contributes significantly to cost savings and improved project outcomes for its clients. As the construction sector increasingly embraces digital transformation, Inkers is poised to lead the charge with its innovative solutions.
DigiBoxx, a prominent Indian cloud storage service provider, has announced a strategic partnership with Arctera, a leading data management firm. This collaboration aims to bolster cloud backup and recovery capabilities for Indian enterprises by integrating Arctera’s Backup Exec solution into DigiBoxx’s Megh3 platform.
Megh3: India’s First Indigenous Cloud Storage Solution
Megh3 is a pioneering indigenous, fully managed elastic cloud storage solution that offers cost-effective and scalable storage services tailored for Indian businesses. By integrating Backup Exec, Megh3 will further empower organizations to safeguard their critical data with advanced backup and recovery features. This partnership is particularly significant as it enhances the existing capabilities of Megh3, making it a more comprehensive solution for data management.
Key Benefits of the Partnership
Enhanced Data Protection: Arctera’s Backup Exec provides robust data protection capabilities, including advanced encryption, malware protection, and ransomware defense. This ensures that businesses can protect their sensitive information against various cyber threats.
Simplified Data Management: The integration simplifies data management tasks, reducing the need for extensive IT resources and infrastructure investments. Organizations can manage their data more effectively without overwhelming their IT teams.
Scalable and Reliable Backup: Backup Exec offers scalable backup solutions that accommodate growing data volumes and evolving business needs. This flexibility is crucial for businesses looking to adapt to changing market conditions.
Secure Data Storage: DigiBoxx’s Megh3 ensures that all data is stored securely within India, addressing concerns related to data sovereignty and compliance with local regulations. This feature is particularly appealing to businesses that prioritize data privacy and security.
Arctera’s Commitment to Data Protection
Arctera, which was recently spun off from Veritas Technologies, is dedicated to delivering innovative data protection solutions. The company’s Backup Exec product line is trusted by numerous organizations worldwide, including 70% of Fortune 100 companies. Simon Jelley, General Manager and Vice President of Data Protection at Arctera, emphasized the importance of reliable backup solutions, stating that Backup Exec provides comprehensive data protection and recovery capabilities that empower businesses to focus on their core operations.
Conclusion
This strategic partnership between DigiBoxx and Arctera marks a significant step toward strengthening the cloud infrastructure ecosystem in India. By offering advanced cloud backup and recovery solutions through Megh3, the two companies aim to empower Indian businesses to thrive in the digital age. As organizations increasingly rely on digital solutions for their operations, having robust backup systems in place becomes essential for ensuring business continuity and protecting valuable data assets. This collaboration not only enhances the technological landscape in India but also supports the broader goal of fostering digital transformation across various sectors.
N Balachandar, the Group Chief People Officer of Ola, has resigned from his position, marking the latest in a series of high-profile exits at the company. His departure comes during a tumultuous period for Ola, which has faced significant challenges and changes within its leadership team.
Background on N Balachandar
Balachandar joined Ola in 2021, overseeing the HR functions for various segments of the company, including ride-hailing, electric vehicles, and artificial intelligence. His role was crucial in shaping the company’s workforce strategy during a time of rapid growth and transformation. However, his exit adds to a growing list of departures that have raised concerns about stability within Ola’s leadership.
Recent Executive Exits
In recent months, Ola has witnessed several notable executive departures:
Siddharth Shakdher, the former Chief Business Officer of Ola Consumer, left to pursue other opportunities after a brief tenure.
Mahesh Alanthat, the former Vice President and Head of Sales at Ola Electric, also exited amid ongoing restructuring efforts.
The company has conducted layoffs, particularly within its electric vehicle division, further indicating internal challenges.
These exits highlight a potential crisis in leadership stability as Ola navigates a competitive landscape and seeks to redefine its strategic direction.
Challenges Facing Ola
Ola’s challenges extend beyond personnel changes. The ride-hailing sector is becoming increasingly competitive with the emergence of new players like Rapido and Namma Yatri, which have begun to capture market share. Additionally, Ola Electric has faced difficulties such as declining market share and rising customer complaints regarding service quality and product reliability.
The company’s struggles have been compounded by economic pressures and the need to adapt to shifting consumer preferences in both the ride-hailing and electric vehicle markets. This context makes it imperative for Ola to stabilize its leadership team and ensure continuity in its strategic initiatives.
Importance of Leadership Stability
As Ola continues to navigate these challenges, maintaining a strong and stable leadership team will be crucial. The company must focus on rebuilding trust among employees and stakeholders while fostering an environment conducive to innovation and growth. Effective leadership is essential for steering the company through its current difficulties and positioning it for future success.
Conclusion
N Balachandar’s resignation from Ola is emblematic of broader issues within the company as it grapples with significant changes in its executive ranks. With multiple high-profile exits occurring in quick succession, Ola faces an urgent need to stabilize its leadership and address operational challenges. As the company works to regain its footing amidst increasing competition and market pressures, it will be vital for them to implement strategies that bolster both employee morale and customer satisfaction.
