Developers, using Apple’s upcoming ARKit API, have been creating some impressive augmented reality apps and games. The latest to join the bandwagon is Chicago based TRIXI Studios!
The video game company has created an app that combines augmented reality with real life effortlessly. The app, which is not publicly available yet, illustrates the power of Apple’s augmented reality framework. Using Apple’s ARKit, the app gives iOS developers a relatively easy way to weave AR content into their apps without the need to make an engine from scratch.
The company released a video in which they seamlessly integrate augmented reality with real life, transforming dancing kids and the room into animated pencil sketches as they move into the drawn areas of the image. The founder of TRIXI, Chip Sineni told The Verge, “When ARKit came along, we were very excited by the idea that just ‘normal’ phones could do such great AR, so it seemed like the perfect situation to stress test what ARKit could do.”
The Norwegian band A-Ha, formed in Oslo in 1982, released their ‘Take On Me’ video in 1985. It integrates the real world with the comic world using a combination pencil sketch animation and live action. The originalvideo took months to make because of the thousand hand drawn sketches that were applied to a live action shoot with rotoscoping, in which live action footage is traced over frame by frame to give the characters realistic movements. TRIXI can complete the process in just a couple of days. Previously Apple’s ARKit was used to created only augmented bar charts, fidget spinners and virtual pets. This video takes the technology to a whole other level.
The video, according to the team, was possible with purchases from Unity 3D’s Asset Stores, using GameFlow for visual scripting and Maximo for characters and animations. Finally, artificial intelligence assets were used to give the video logic. Founder Sineni added,“It is crazy how asset stores have democratized code and art for game making, that anyone can do this so quickly now.”
Apple is set to relocate all assembly of iPhones destined for the US market from China to India by the end of 2026, marking its biggest manufacturing shift in decades. The move is driven by escalating US-China trade tensions and steep tariffs—up to 145% on Chinese imports—making Chinese assembly increasingly costly for Apple. Although some smartphone imports are temporarily exempt, a 20% duty still applies to Chinese-made iPhones entering the US.
India, in contrast, offers a more favorable trade environment, with a paused 26% reciprocal tariff and ongoing negotiations for a bilateral trade deal with the US that could shield Indian exports from future levies. Apple plans to more than double its current iPhone output in India, aiming to assemble over 60 million units annually for the US market. The company already produces about 25% of its global iPhones in India, working with partners like Foxconn, Tata Electronics, and Pegatron.
This shift is part of Apple’s broader strategy to diversify its supply chain and reduce reliance on China amid geopolitical risks. However, the transition’s success will depend on how quickly India can scale up its manufacturing capabilities and the outcome of ongoing trade negotiations.
PhonePe’s PINCODE app has launched a 24×7 online medicine delivery service in Bangalore, Mumbai, and Pune, promising delivery of both prescription and over-the-counter medicines within 10 minutes from nearby local medical shops. Unlike conventional e-pharmacies that use dark stores, PINCODE partners exclusively with neighborhood pharmacies, enabling faster deliveries and supporting local businesses in the digital economy.
Customers without prescriptions can select a “no prescription” option when ordering; a qualified doctor then provides a free teleconsultation and issues a digital prescription compliant with telemedicine guidelines, ensuring seamless access to medicines. The app offers competitive pricing by passing discounts from local pharmacies directly to customers and charges no delivery fees.
PINCODE’s hyperlocal model enhances healthcare accessibility and convenience while empowering local pharmacies, helping them remain integral to their communities and stimulating local economic growth. Launched in 2023, the app focuses on quick commerce with an emphasis on speed, reliability, and supporting local sellers.
In summary, PhonePe’s PINCODE app is transforming medicine delivery in major Indian cities by combining ultra-fast 10-minute delivery, free doctor consultations, and a hyperlocal sourcing model that benefits both consumers and neighborhood pharmacies.
Cashfree Payments has appointed Piyush Anchliya as its new Chief Financial Officer (CFO), effective April 15, 2025. Anchliya brings over 15 years of experience in investment banking, corporate finance, strategy, and mergers and acquisitions, with senior roles at Barclays, Bandhan Group, and most recently as CFO of Bandhan AMC. He holds an MBA from IIM Ahmedabad and a B.Tech. from IIT Kharagpur.
In his new role, Anchliya will lead Cashfree’s financial strategy, optimize operations, and support the company’s next growth phase. He will report to CEO and Co-founder Akash Sinha, who highlighted Anchliya’s expertise as vital for sustainable scaling and strengthening the company’s financial foundation. Anchliya succeeds outgoing CFO Vikas Guru, who will assist during the transition.
Founded in 2015, Cashfree Payments processes over $80 billion annually for more than 800,000 businesses. The company recently raised $53 million in funding led by KRAFTON and Apis Growth Fund II and secured key RBI licenses, positioning it for accelerated growth in India’s fintech sector. Anchliya’s appointment comes at a pivotal time as Cashfree aims to expand its leadership in digital payments.
