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Google Play has revealed its annual Best of 2024 awards for India, celebrating the apps and games that defined the year. With five of the seven top apps developed by Indian creators, the awards underscore India’s rising prominence in the global tech ecosystem. Mobile gaming also continues to boom, as the country solidifies its position as the second-largest market for gaming downloads worldwide. In a blog post announcing the winners, Google also shed light on how India is the world's second largest market in terms of mobile gaming downloads. "On the gaming front, the Indian gaming scene continues to thrive, with India adding 23 million new gamers in FY24, reaching a total of 590 million. In fact, India now boasts the world's second-largest market for mobile gaming downloads, with average weekly playtime increasing by 30%." Leading Apps: India at the Forefront of AI Innovation The blog post revealed that this year’s top apps showcased India’s innovative spirit, particularly in harnessing AI to meet user needs. Alle - Your AI Fashion Stylist, developed by Hey Alle, emerged as the year’s Best App and also won the Best for Fun award. Leveraging AI, Alle provides personalised fashion advice tailored to users’ occasions, body types, and preferences, reflecting the growing trend of AI-powered app experiences in India. Prateek Agarwal, Co-Founder &amp; CEO, Alle, said in a statement, “We noticed that the recent developments in Gen AI, combined with evolving consumer preferences for visual inspirational content, will create a massive opportunity to reimagine &amp; rebuild how people discover and shop for fashion. This realization led us to start Alle...As a new startup, Google Play has been crucial in helping us reach our early users organically. The platform's detailed analytics and crash reporting have been invaluable - they've helped us quickly identify and fix issues, improving our app stability.” Other app winners included: • Headlyne: Daily News with AI (Best for Personal Growth), offering curated news tailored to individual preferences. • Sony LIV: Sports &amp; Entertainment (Best for Large Screens), delivering immersive content on tablets and other big-screen devices. • WhatsApp Messenger (Best Multi-device App), enabling seamless communication across devices. • Fold: Expense Tracker (Best Everyday Essential) and Rise: Habit List (Best Hidden Gem) also captured user interest with practical and engaging features. The blog post added that India’s dominance in the AI app space is significant, accounting for 21% of global AI mobile app downloads this year, with nearly 1,000 Indian apps and games incorporating AI. Games that thrilled millions India’s gaming industry continued its upward trajectory, adding 23 million gamers this year, taking the total to 590 million. With gaming preferences increasingly reflecting local culture, many award-winning titles integrated Indian storylines and visuals. Squad Busters, a fast-paced multiplayer game, won Best Game for its simple yet engaging design. Meanwhile, Indus Battle Royale Mobile by SuperGaming earned the Best Made in India title for the second year running. Roby John, Co-Founder and CEO of SuperGaming, said in a statement, "We are committed to making Indus a standout Battle Royale experience. Our team has spent over three years thoughtfully crafting its characters, environments, and gameplay features to represent Indian Art and Culture authentically. The community's enthusiasm validates our vision of Indian games thriving globally. Winning this award is an incredible honor, not just as a milestone but also a motivation to keep striving for excellence. Google Play’s expertise and responsiveness have empowered us to deliver world-class gaming, pushing the boundaries of Indian gaming. We’re more committed than ever to raising the bar and making Indian gaming shine on the global stage.” Other top games included: • BGMI (Battlegrounds Mobile India) (Best Ongoing), for its India-centric updates featuring cricket, festivals, and celebrity collaborations. • Bloom – A Puzzle Adventure (Best Indie), for its unique mechanics and creativity. • Clash of Clans (Best Multi-device Game) and Yes, Your Grace (Best Story) also stood out for their engaging gameplay.

Google Play announces best apps and games of 2024 in India: All you need to know

New Delhi: India is set to enter a transformative "smartphone era" for cars in 2025, with the introduction of vehicles featuring 5G M2M connectivity and advanced AI technologies, according to the latest findings from Techarc's India Connected Consumer Report 2025. The report said the automotive sector will skip 4G and will enable connectivity using the latest 5G cellular technology. It observed that consumers are interested in spending money on improving the value proposition in terms of features, quality and experience rather than exploring too many smart devices. "22 per cent of the respondents shared about considering optimising their smart devices portfolio. Among the new set of categories, smart/connected cars is generating high interest among consumers. 55 per cent of the respondents said that they have come across news or information about smart/connected cars in recent times," it said. Starting in 2025, passenger cars in India will be equipped with 5G M2M connectivity, on-device GenAI, and cloud connectivity, making advanced technologies accessible across various price segments, it added. In-vehicle computing and artificial intelligence (GenAI), along with cloud applications, will become essential components of cars, enabling real-time data processing to support drivers effectively. Most cars priced at Rs 20 lakh and above will feature these technologies as standard. The cumulative revenues from automotive chipset companies have already surpassed USD 1.5 billion, with companies like Qualcomm and MediaTek leading the market. Some of the familiar applications that consumers will be able to use while driving include communication apps for audio/video conferencing, OTT entertainment apps, music streaming, podcasts, online shopping, vehicle maintenance, and servicing. "With connectivity and the technologies it brings to the cars, the future of the automobile sector will be fundamentally determined by the auto-technologies that will influence the overall experience, performance, comfort, safety and entertainment available to the drivers as well as the passengers. "So far, such features were seen as luxury or high-end experiences. But starting 2025, many of these will become mainstream for cars in India," Techarc AutoTech Analyst Sadat Ahanger said. With 22 automobile manufacturers producing nearly 5 million passenger vehicles annually in India, the country is poised to become a leader in the global 5G M2M market within the next few years, the report said. About 21 per cent of respondents said MG Motors is the leader in providing <keyword id="24016739" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="connected-cars-in-India" source="keywords">connected cars in India</keyword>, followed closely by Kia Motors at 18 per cent and Tata Motors at 15 per cent, it added. Hyundai and Maruti Suzuki also ranked among the top-five brands in this category. The report draws insights from a survey of 4,500 "connected consumers" across metro and non-metro cities. The report defined a connected consumer as one owning at least 3 smart devices in addition to a smartphone.

India to shift to 'smartphone era' for cars embracing 5G, advanced AI in 2025: Report

<ul class="summary-list"><li>Duolingo has posted its fifth straight profitable quarter.</li><li>Its user growth in the past year could be attributed to its marketing tactics.</li></ul>Gen Z's favorite language-learning app is on a streak of its own.<a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/duolingo-lays-off-workers-ai-tools-2024-1">Duolingo</a> just posted its fifth straight profitable quarter. It posted a net income of $24.4 million, an over 500% increase compared to the same period last year. Daily active users, one of the company's most important metrics, grew 59%, while paid subscribers grew by 52%, the company said in its second-quarter earnings report."We also achieved two milestones: surpassing 100 million monthly active users, and reaching 8 million paying subscribers," Luis von Ahn, the company's CEO, said in an earnings call on Wednesday.The company's stock gained about 5.5% in after hours trading.<h2 id="a3485be3-7784-4c46-9f78-e7ce779a2049">A very specific marketing approach</h2>Duolingo's user growth in the past year could be attributed to its <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/duolingo-will-run-its-first-super-bowl-ad-2023-12">marketing tactics.</a>The company is famous for its guilt-inducing in-app and email marketing messages, asking users to continue their learning on the app. Despite their controversial nature, experts think it's the right approach for gen Z users."They're looking for something that comes across more like a person," Brian Honigman, a marketing consultant based in Philadelphia, told <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/duolingo-meanest-app-nagging-notifications-melting-icon-gen-z-marketing-2024-7">Business Insider last month</a>. "Duolingo does a fantastic job of not coming across like many other brands."The <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/duolingo-meanest-app-nagging-notifications-melting-icon-gen-z-marketing-2024-7">app's iconic green owl mascot</a> is also perceived as authentic and consistent by users. Whether it's on TV or Youtube ads, or on TikTok, where Duolingo has over 12.5 million followers, the owl displays its smug and hilarious personality.The mascot and the Duolingo app alike have become a cultural icon, making appearances in user-generated content and even <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/barbie-details-references-easter-eggs-missed-2023-7">Hollywood</a>."Our signature 'ding' was featured in the '<a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/how-much-did-barbie-spend-marketing-box-office-success-explained-2023-7">Barbie' movie</a>, providing an incredible brand boost, and in many ways, that was indicative of our commanding presence in the zeitgeist last year," Matt Skaruppa, Duolingo's chief financial officer, said in the call.The brand is also doubling down on country-specific marketing.Duolingo's social media accounts in India, Germany, and France feature content based on viral memes, news events, and social media trends, amassing <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.instagram.com/duolingodeutschland/?hl=en">hundreds of thousands</a> of followers in each country.But the app's success on social media has not been enough to calm investors.It beat analyst expectations when it reported fourth-quarter 2023 earnings in February, but missed them in the March quarter and saw shares slip because it gained new users at the slowest rate since 2022.Duolingo stock is down over 24% year to date.

One of Gen Z's favorite apps just had a very strong quarter

<ul><li>The ED issued a summons for popular Hindi film actor <keyword id="6357861" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="ranbir-kapoor" source="Orion">Ranbir Kapoor</keyword> a month back while investigating the <keyword id="15960875" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="mahadev-app" source="Orion">Mahadev App</keyword> case.</li><li>The investigation started after a lavish wedding in UAE budgeted at Rs 250 crore drew the ED’s attention.</li><li>BJP and Congress are trading allegations regarding the app’s ban timing.</li></ul> The Mahadev App, a live betting platform, promoted by Ravi Uppal and Sourabh Chandrakar has allegedly earned Rs 5,000 crore through a scam. The Directorate of Enforcement or ED says that the grand Rs 250-crore wedding of Sourabh Chandrakar in the United Arab Emirates prompted an investigation. The alleged scam has drawn in popular Hindi film actor, Ranbir Kapoor who has also been questioned in this investigation. Additionally, the BJP and the Congress are locked in a war of political allegations over this matter as the Chhattisgarh election draws near. Here is what we know so far about this multifaceted case. Why is Mahadev betting app back in news? The Indian central government has imposed blocking orders against 22 illegal betting apps and websites, including platforms like Mahadev Book Online and Reddyannaprestopro after an investigation into the Mahadev App. So, what does the Mahadev app do? The Mahadev Book App, before getting banned, provided a platform for betting on live games such as cricket, football, tennis, poker, etc. in India. It functioned through several websites and allowed betting advertisements. Why was Ranbir Kapoor questioned? While investigating the case, the ED issued a summons for popular Hindi film actor Ranbir Kapoor on October 6. The ED probe into the Mahadev app showed that Ranbir Kapoor was paid by the application promoters for endorsing their gaming platform. Allegedly, the payment made to Ranbir Kapoor could have come from the proceeds of the crime. Thus, the Bollywood star was asked to come before investigating authorities. Politics over Mahadev: The BJP vs Cong war of words Minister of State for Electronics and IT Rajeev Chandrasekhar did not send any request to block these platforms despite having powers to do so alleges the Chhattisgarh government. However, in a post on social media platform X (earlier known as Twitter), Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh said, "ED has been investigating the 'Mahadev App' case for several months. Still, it is surprising that it took so much time to ban it." He claimed that the demand to ban Mahadev App was also first made by Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel on August 24. What is the accusation against CM Baghel? The BJP has accused the state chief minister of being in the know about the scam. The BJP's IT Cell chief Amit Malviya has further claimed that the betting app ran under the patronage of "Bhupesh Baghel's police", adding that several police officers also "collaborated" in the scam. What has the ED said about the investigation? The Enforcement Directorate said a person, identified as Asim Das, was sent from the UAE to deliver a large amount of cash for the election expenses of the ruling Congress in Chhattisgarh. The ED has also claimed Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel was paid Rs 508 crore by the promoters of the Mahadev betting app.

Explained: The hullabaloo over the Mahadev App that dragged Ranbir Kapoor to the ED office

Meta-owned <keyword id="790242" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="Whatsapp" source="Orion">WhatsApp</keyword> is reportedly working on a feature that will restrict users from taking <keyword id="20118528" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="screenshots" source="keywords">screenshots</keyword> of <keyword id="20953406" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="profile-pictures" source="keywords">profile pictures</keyword> on iOS. As shown in the screenshot shared by <keyword id="19897013" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="WABetaInfo" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="WABetaInfo" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="WABetaInfo">WABetaInfo</keyword>, a message will occur on the screen notifying users that taking screenshots of profile photos has been blocked to protect everyone's privacy on the app. According to the report, this feature will offer an added layer of privacy protection by blocking users from capturing and sharing profile photos without the owner's consent. While people may still capture the image with other devices or cameras, blocking the screenshot feature within the app will definitely reduce the unauthorised sharing of profile photos, the report said. This <keyword id="21168499" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="WhatsApp-feature" source="keywords">WhatsApp feature</keyword> will be useful in reducing the risk of profile photos being misused or distributed without permission by stopping users from taking screenshots. A feature to block screenshots of profile pictures is under development and it will be available in a future update of the app, the report stated. Meanwhile, WhatsApp is reportedly testing a new feature that will offer users a dedicated "filter" to quickly get a list of their favourites from the chats tab on Android. With this new chat filter, users will get to easily access and prioritise specific conversations with their favourite contacts and groups.

WhatsApp working on feature that will restrict users from taking screenshots of profile pictures: Report

<ul><li>With the India-China border tensions escalating, the Indian government has banned 59 Chinese apps, including UC Browser.</li><li>In such a scenario, we have compiled a list of the top browser alternatives, many of which are free.</li><li>If you are looking for other Chinese app alternatives, <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/apps/news/chinese-app-alternatives-here-are-the-alternatives-to-top-chinese-apps/tiktok-/slidelist/76463292.cms">check out our list here</a>.</li></ul>UC Browser is a popular mobile browser and is the second most used mobile browser in India with a <a href="https://gs.statcounter.com/browser-market-share/mobile/india">market share</a> of 17% in May 2020. It allows users to access websites, use search, view news and more. UC Browser is one of the <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/apps/news/checkout-the-name-of-the-chinese-banned-apps-in-india/articleshow/76696132.cms">59 Chinese apps banned</a> in India by the government. With TikTok already being <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/apps/news/tiktok-ban-now-being-enforced-as-it-stops-working-on-jio-and-airtel-4g/articleshow/76714280.cms">blocked by major telecom providers</a> like Jio and Airtel, it won’t be long before users are blocked from accessing the other banned apps. <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="76696132" title="List of 59 Chinese apps banned in India by Indian government" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div> Top UC Browser alternatives Google Chrome Google Chrome is the most used mobile browser in India and has a market share of over 70%. It is easy to use and allows users to sync their settings, bookmarks, passwords and other information from its desktop version. <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.android.chrome&amp;hl=en_IN">Download Google Chrome</a> from the Play Store. Samsung Internet Samsung Internet is another good option to go for if you are looking for a browser. While it is a relatively new browser, it is one of the most feature packed browsers available. It has a native ad blocker, secret mode, download manager and more. <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.sec.android.app.sbrowser&amp;hl=en_IN">Download Samsung Internet</a> from the Play Store. Firefox The Firefox browser is similar to Chrome in terms of multi-device sync and features add-ons such as ad blockers, cookies remover, the ability to block over 2,000 trackers and more. It also allows users to send their open tabs between mobile and desktop. <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.mozilla.firefox&amp;hl=en_IN">Download Firefox</a> from the Play Store. Microsoft Edge Microsoft Edge recently adopted Chromium for its mobile version after announcing the Chromium Edge for desktops. It blocks all third-party trackers, comes with multi-device sync and allows you to continue browsing from your desktop to your smartphone. <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.microsoft.emmx&amp;hl=en_IN">Download Microsoft Edge</a> from the Play Store. Opera Browser The Opera Browser is also a good option if you are looking for a feature packed browser. It features a built-in VPN, a native ad-blocker, a personalized news feed, night mode and more. <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.opera.browser&amp;hl=en_IN">Download Opera Browser</a> from the Play Store. DuckDuckGo Privacy Browser If you are looking for a privacy-oriented browser, DuckDuckGo Privacy Browser is the best option for you. It blocks all hidden third-party trackers and allows you to see who is trying to track you. It also allows you to search for anything privately and gives a privacy grade rating to websites. SEE ALSO: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/apps/news/top-chinese-camscanner-app-alternatives-adobe-scan-microsoft-office-lens-google-drive-and-more/articleshow/76721925.cms">Top CamScanner alternatives for Android to help you scan documents on the go</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/apps/news/chinese-app-alternatives-here-are-the-alternatives-to-top-chinese-apps/tiktok-/slidelist/76463292.cms">Chinese app alternatives - Here are the alternatives to top Chinese apps</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/apps/news/checkout-the-top-10-indian-apps-in-2020/slidelist/76632903.cms">Here are the top 10 Indian apps in 2020</a>

Top UC Browser alternatives from Google, Samsung, Opera and others

Facing a nationwide ban in the US, Chinese short-form video making platform <keyword id="6762469" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="tiktok" source="Orion">TikTok</keyword> still have access to "troves of personal data of Indian citizens" who once used the app before it was banned in June 2020 by the Indian government over national security concerns along with several other Chinese apps. According to a report in Forbes, the data of Indian users "remain widely accessible to employees at the company and its Beijing-based parent ByteDance". Before the ban, TikTok had about 150 million monthly active users in the country. "I don't think Indians are aware of how much of their data is exposed to China right now, even with the ban in place," a current TikTok employee told Forbes. Almost anyone at the companies with basic access to their tools can retrieve and analyse granular data about past TikTok users in <keyword id="3658" type="General" weightage="50" keywordseo="india" source="Orion">India</keyword>, "including everyone from prominent public figures to the average person". ByteDance has more than 110,000 employees around the world, including in China, the US and Russia. In a statement, a TikTok spokesperson said they "have steadfastly complied, and continue to remain in full compliance, with the government of India order since it was implemented". "All user data is subject to our robust internal policy controls surrounding access, retention, and deletion," the company spokesperson was quoted as saying. This powerful demographic data, especially on TikTok's unmatched Gen Z userbase, could also be highly valuable for commercial purposes, the report said, quoting the TikTok employee. The Chinese short video-making app sacked its entire India staff -- about 40 employees - in February. Chinese short video-making app TikTok has sacked its entire India staff -- about 40 employees -- and February 28 will be their last working day. The ByteDance-owned platform reportedly told its employees they would receive up to nine months of severance package. However, most of the staff will only get three-month severance. In a statement to IANS, a company spokesperson had said that "we have taken the decision to close our India remote sales support hub, which was put in place at the end of 2020 to provide support to our global and regional sales teams". "We greatly appreciate these employees and their impact on our company, and will ensure they are supported at this difficult time," the TikTok spokesperson added. In June 2020, the government banned TikTok along with 59 other Chinese apps citing security concerns. Since then, the country has banned over 300 Chinese apps, including <keyword id="1160904" type="General" weightage="50" keywordseo="wechat" source="Orion">WeChat</keyword>, Shareit, <keyword id="3155481" type="General" weightage="50" keywordseo="helo" source="Orion">Helo</keyword>, Likee, UC News, <keyword id="4883373" type="General" weightage="50" keywordseo="bigo-live" source="Orion">Bigo Live</keyword>, UC Browser and many more. The Centre in February blocked over 230 apps, including 138 betting and about 94 loan apps, which were traced to Chinese links. SEE ALSO: <a target="_blank" class="c-link c-message_attachment__title_link" href="https://www.businessinsider.in/business/news/top-10-billionaires-who-lost-the-most-wealth-globally-in-last-one-year/slidelist/98911396.cms">Top 10 billionaires to have lost the most wealth in the last year as per Hurun Rich List</a> <a target="_blank" class="c-link c-message_attachment__title_link" href="https://www.businessinsider.in/india/news/indias-growth-to-mirror-chinas-trajectory-over-next-decade-with-private-consumption-more-than-doubling-to-4-5-trn/articleshow/98912119.cms">India’s growth to mirror China’s trajectory over next decade with private consumption more than doubling to $4.5 trn</a>

Chinese app TikTok still has troves of personal data of Indians: Report

Navigating the messy world of <keyword id="19927140" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="online-dating" source="keywords">online dating</keyword> can be tough, and sometimes a potential suitor’s flaws can be deeper than just them dipping their pizza in ketchup. Their political beliefs, for instance, could influence whether you swipe left or right on a profile. And a new survey by <keyword id="20566255" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="happn" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="happn" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="happn">happn</keyword>, an online <keyword id="19909663" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="dating" source="keywords">dating</keyword> app, dives into the messy world of love and <keyword id="19964498" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="politics" source="keywords">politics</keyword> in <keyword id="19895063" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="India" source="keywords">India</keyword>. As per the survey, there’s some good news for the open-minded singles. About 65% of users in India don’t believe that differing political views should necessarily stop them from dating someone. However, the users’ age does seem to play a role. <keyword id="159493" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="gen-z" source="Orion">Gen Z</keyword> daters (18-25) are more willing to bend on politics for love, with 44% admitting to it. They might prioritise finding someone they connect with on a personal level, believing that shared values and interests can outweigh political differences. Seasoned daters (36+), on the other hand, tend to be a bit more cautious, with 66% preferring someone who shares their political views. Perhaps they've witnessed how strongly held political beliefs can create friction in <keyword id="19915537" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="relationships" source="keywords">relationships</keyword>, or they simply value finding a partner who aligns with their worldview. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="City by city love-o-meter" comment="subhead" text="City by city love-o-meter">City by city love-o-meter</cmsannotation> Delhi: Most open-minded city, with a whopping 67% across all ages believing politics shouldn't affect love. Delhi, a melting pot of cultures and backgrounds, might foster a more tolerant attitude towards differing political viewpoints. Hyderabad: Younger daters are cool with differences, but millennials (especially men) prefer political alignment (56% of men aged 36+). This suggests a potential shift in priorities as Hyderabadis age, with more men placing greater emphasis on shared political beliefs for long-term compatibility. Mumbai: Most are receptive to dating <keyword id="19986110" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="activists" source="keywords">activists</keyword> (75% open to a partner passionate about social causes). Mumbai, known for its progressive spirit, might be more accepting of individuals who are actively engaged in social change. Bangalore: Most avoid political talk on first dates, but those aged 26-35 are more comfortable discussing it later (73% of men and 76% of women). Bangaloreans might prefer to keep first dates light and breezy, but as they get to know someone better, they're open to exploring deeper topics like political beliefs. On a national level, 74.8% of happn users prefer to steer clear of potentially divisive topics like politics, and instead focus on making a good first impression. However, about 62.8% of Indian singles are ready to dive headfirst into a debate over dessert. Further, 66% of Indians are open to dating people involved in social causes, particularly Gen Z. This suggests a rise in socially conscious singles who value partners who share their passion for making a difference in the world. The survey does seem to have some gaps, though. This survey’s sample size has not been mentioned, and it is unclear what percentage of happn users were Gen Z and what percentage was in the older age group. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Stop crushing &amp; go voting!" comment="subhead" text="Stop crushing &amp; go voting!">Stop crushing &amp; go voting!</cmsannotation> The <keyword id="19895394" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="lok-sabha" source="keywords">Lok Sabha</keyword> elections are going on in full swing and 88% of happn users plan to vote. And to inspire the youth, happn is launching an initiative urging users to "Stop Crushing &amp; Go Voting," championing the idea that patriotism is not just about love for one’s partner but also for one’s country. While political views can influence Indian dating, there's an openness to connection despite differences. So, keep an open mind, discuss your passions (including activism!), and maybe avoid the political debate on the first date. After all, there's plenty to discover about your date's personality, hobbies, and dreams – and maybe even find love in the process!

Love in the time of elections: Do politics spice up or spoil dating in India?

<ul><li>Overall household spending has increased for 59%, majorly in Northern regions, 3% dip from last month.</li><li>Highest ‘steady’ spends (33%) in essentials and lowest ‘increased’ spends(14%) in non-essential spends in the last 5 months.</li><li>Surge in steady spends in health-related items for 40% families, drop by 2% from last month.</li><li>Increased media consumption for a majority of 25% of families, Net Score improves from -4 to +1.</li></ul> Axis My India, a leading consumer data intelligence company, released its latest findings of the India Consumer Sentiment Index (CSI), a monthly analysis of consumer perception on a wide range of issues. The month of December reveals that a combined 58% engage with Digital apps / Websites + Social Media and 53% engage with television for news/latest updates. WhatsApp, Facebook, YouTube and Instagram are some of the most frequented apps my consumers with WhatsApp topping the last. Moreover media engagement in general has increased for 25% of the families, highest in the last three months. The January net CSI score, calculated by percentage increase minus percentage decrease in sentiment, was up to +10, from +8 last month The sentiment analysis delves into 5 relevant sub-indices – Overall household spending, spending on essential and non-essential items, spending on healthcare, media consumption habits &amp; mobility trends. This month, Axis My India’s Sentiment Index also probed deeper to understand consumer preferences in terms of news consumption and frequently used digital applications. Finally, the January survey also revealed consumers thoughts on 2022. The surveys were carried out via Computer Aided Telephonic Interviews with a sample size of 10563 people across 36 states. 71% belonged from Rural India while 29% belonged from urban counterparts. In addition, 64% of the respondents were male while 36% of the respondents were female. Commenting on the December report, Pradeep Gupta, CMD, Axis My India, said, “While the new year brought along hope and optimism for a better 2022, consumers purse strings suggest otherwise. The lowest dip in non-essential spending is a proof that consumers are curling back to apprehensions triggered by the new variant of the virus and also hoping for a booster dose, something which has recently been announced by the Government. Moreover, the higher preference of web for seeking news only reflect the gradual change in media consumption behaviour owing to consistent lockdown experienced by consumers in the last two years. In addition, the inclination towards WhatsApp, Facebook and YouTube reflects an evolved and unconscious mode of conversing, converging or consuming dialogue/information/media."Key findings: <ul><li>Overall household spending has increased for 59% of families which reflects a 3% decrease from the last month. While this increase is majorly reflected in the Northern part of India, the net score is at +50, reflecting the dip in net score by 1 percentage point for 3rd consecutive month.</li><li>·Spends on essentials like personal care &amp; household items has increased for 47% of the families showcasing a surge in the Northern part of India. Spends however remain the same for 33% of the families (the highest in the last 5 months). The net score which was +27 last month comes down to +26 this month.</li><li>·Spends on non-essential &amp; discretionary products like AC, Car, Refrigerator has increased for 14% of families, indicating the lowest percentage in the last 5 months. Expenditure nevertheless remains the same for 78% of the families indicating the sentiment of people living in Southern part of India. The net score is stagnant at +6 as last month.</li><li>·Consumption on health-related items more or less remains the same for 43% of the families, while a surge is witnessed among 40%. In comparison to last month, while the ‘increase’ in consumption represents an overall dip by 2%, the ‘same’ consumption reflects an overall surge by 2%. The health score which has a negative connotation i.e., the lesser the spends on health items the better the sentiments, has a net score value of -23, which was at -25 previous month.</li><li>·Consumption of media has increased for 25% of the families reflecting an increase of 3% from the last month and the highest in the last three months. This surge is reflected among 18-25 YO in Eastern part of India. Consumption remains the same for a majority of 51% families. The overall, the Net score of this month is at +1 as compared to -4 for the previous month.</li><li>·85% families said that they are going out the same for short vacations, mall and restaurants as compared to 81% of families last month. Only 6% of families recorded increase in outgoing activities while 9% reported reduced mobility. The overall mobility score which was at -5 last month is at -3.</li></ul>

WhatsApp is the most frequented app, followed by Facebook and YouTube: Report

India is rapidly becoming a digital economy, much ahead of many developed countries. The widespread adoption of digital payments in the country has set an example for the world. One company that has been instrumental in driving this transformation is Paytm. The journey of mobile payments in the country is synonymous with the journey of India’s leading fintech company. Through a wide range of payments and financial services offered by Paytm along with its cutting-edge products, have revolutionised the payments landscape in India. It was Paytm that brought the QR code to India, teaching ‘scan and pay’ to millions. While the launch of QR code changed the payments game entirely, the icing on the cake came with the launch of <keyword id="9418617" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="paytm-soundbox" source="Orion">Paytm Soundbox</keyword>, a first-of-its-kind device that provided audio confirmations on successful payments. Strengthening its leadership in in-store payments and taking its payment suffering a notch higher, the company recently launched an innovative device - <keyword id="18606921" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="paytm-pocket" source="Orion">Paytm Pocket</keyword> Soundbox. The lightweight portable device is designed for merchants on the move like auto drivers, electricians, delivery agents, cart vendors and several others. The ‘Made in India’ device fits right into the pocket like a small debit card. The company also launched <keyword id="18468098" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="paytm-music" source="Orion">Paytm Music</keyword> Soundbox to enable some music, listen to match commentary, news while also receiving payment notifications. Here’s how you can order Paytm Pocket Soundbox and Paytm Music Soundbox: <ol><li>Open the Paytm for Business app</li><li>Click on the soundbox banner or on 'Soundbox' icon on the homepage</li><li>You will be taken to the Soundbox device page where you can choose your preferred language</li><li>Post that, Click 'Buy Now' to place your order</li></ol>Paytm Soundbox, the iconic payments device has become omnipresent across the country. The sound of payment confirmation from Paytm Soundbox is like music to the merchant's ears and its impact can be seen with its ubiquitous presence everywhere from street vendors to grocery stores across the country. It would be safe to say that Paytm Soundbox has become the sound of merchant transactions in India. In fact, the global brokerage firm BofA after its offline primary checks stated that Paytm appears to dominate the Soundbox market in Mumbai. “In areas we visited, most of the devices were installed in small Kiranas, sweet shops, cigarette kiosks, salons, small mobile merchants' vs bigger shops. A common theme was these outlets had fast shopper intensity at a limited store size/area. During peak load hours, it became easy for shopkeepers to keep a tab on payments; Not many were savvy in using mobile phones and hence preferred this,” said BofA in a report released on June 29. The rapid adoption of Paytm Soundbox after its introduction in 2019 reflects growing trust in the tech innovator that ensures convenient and quick payment experience to all. The small portable device offers instant audio confirmation in 11 languages and provides a battery back-up of 7 days, the best in the industry. The highly durable device also comes in a 4G-enabled variant which provides stable connectivity for real time payments. In areas where the 4G network does not work, it automatically shifts to the 2G network for uninterrupted connectivity. What makes Paytm Soundbox stand out among others is that it is completely Made in India. Paytm has strengthened its leadership in in-store payment devices with a cumulative deployment of 82 lakh devices including Soundbox and Paytm Card Machines. So far till July 2023, the company has added more than 24 lakh merchants who are paying subscriptions for its devices. As India’s leading payments company, Paytm has been rapidly expanding its merchant base and helping them with a seamless transition to digital. The company’s technology-led innovations have made it the most preferred choice for merchants who want to scale their business. Disclaimer: This article is generated and published by the Insider Studios team. You can get in touch with them on insiderstudios@businessinsider.in

From teaching Indians to scan and pay to now a Soundbox that fits in your pocket — how Paytm rules in-store payments

<ul><li><keyword id="6354616" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="20" keywordseo="Twitter">Twitter</keyword> has received 361 government demands to takedown accounts of 199 <keyword id="6364464" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="20" keywordseo="Journalists">journalists</keyword>, <keyword id="6355005" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="20" keywordseo="news">news</keyword> outlets between July and December last year.</li><li>Overall, Twitter had received over 38,500 legal demands in the second half of 2020.</li><li>94% of the total global volume of legal demands originated from only five countries, including India. </li></ul>US-based social media giant Twitter received 361 government demands to takedown accounts of 199 verified journalists and news outlets in the second half of 2020, according to the data shared by the microblogging platform. The government of India had submitted 128 requests, making up for 35% of such legal requests in the same time frame. India was followed by Turkey, Pakistan and Russia. Overall, Twitter had received over 38,500 legal demands in the second half of 2020, specifying 131.9 Lakh accounts. Japan was the top requester, with 43% (16,600) of all global requests received. India was next in line with about 7,000 demands, making up for 18% of the total legal demands received by the platform. 94% of the total global volume of legal demands originated from only five countries — Japan, India, Russia, Turkey and South Korea. Twitter shared these insights in its transparency report for the second half of the 2020, between July and December. The <keyword id="44734" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="20" keywordseo="Indian-Government">Indian government</keyword> has also pitched itself as the frontrunner in issuing the most number of information requisitions on Twitter. The country has issued 3,600 information requests, of the total 14,561 such information requests Twitter received. It was followed by the United States, Japan and France in this criteria. Even though India took a lead in these information requests in the second half of 2020. The US was the top demander of user information in the first half of last year. Overall, In 2020, between January to December, the US had issued the most number of information requests. SEE ALSO <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/cryptocurrency/news/wazirx-coindcx-and-coinswitch-kubers-advertising-roll-has-hit-a-roadblock-in-india/articleshow/84432645.cms"></a><a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/business/news/merus-plea-against-uber-abusing-its-dominant-status-rejected-by-cci/articleshow/84434982.cms" data-type="tilCustomLink">India’s antitrust watchdog rejects radio taxi Meru’s plea against Uber, says there is an 'ever-expanding pool of drivers' available</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/business/corporates/news/just-dial-share-price-surge-as-mukesh-ambani-is-looking-to-buy-just-dial/articleshow/84432450.cms">As Mukesh Ambani reportedly dials in, Just Dial stocks surge 3%</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/business/startups/news/pubg-developer-krafton-is-going-to-help-indian-storytelling-platform-pratilipi-to-turn-a-few-stories-into-games/articleshow/84430517.cms">PUBG developer Krafton is going to help Indian storytelling platform Pratilipi to turn a few stories into games</a>

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