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The smartphone industry continuously pushes the boundaries of <keyword id="1658654" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="fast-charging" source="Orion">fast charging</keyword>, with companies launching new and improved charging technologies at an impressive pace. Recently, <keyword id="19985864" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="realme" source="keywords">Realme</keyword> announced a new system, called the 320W SuperSonic charge that can charge a 4,420 mAh battery from 1% to 100% in just 4 minutes and 30 seconds. This raises an important question: Do these fast chargers damage your phone’s battery, or are they totally safe to use? In this article, we'll explore the science behind battery function and the technologies that manufacturers are developing to protect your device's battery. <h2>How does a smartphone battery work?</h2>Smartphone batteries are typically made of lithium-ion or lithium-polymer cells, which operate through chemical reactions. When charging, lithium ions flow from the negative electrode (anode) to the positive electrode (cathode), generating energy that powers the device. Batteries absorb the most energy when they are almost empty. As they are near their full capacity, they absorb less power. This is why smartphone charging slows down once the battery reaches around 80%. With a fast charger, this process happens much faster, but it’s important to note that fast chargers don’t consistently operate at their peak output. The charger only delivers its maximum capacity for a brief period, while the power input adjusts depending on the battery’s current charge level. <h2>Fast charging explained</h2>Fast charging uses higher power levels to recharge a battery more quickly by increasing the voltage or current supplied. Modern fast-charging systems rely on specialised chargers and batteries that can handle the increased power without causing damage. Technologies such as <keyword id="22604355" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="usb-power-delivery" source="keywords">USB Power Delivery</keyword> (USB-PD and Qualcomm <keyword id="24069276" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="quick-charge" source="keywords">Quick Charge</keyword> help regulate power delivery by communicating between the charger and the device, adjusting based on battery capacity and charge level. Fast charging starts quickly when the battery is low, but slows as the battery nears full capacity to prevent overheating and protect battery longevity. <h2>Why Do Batteries Degrade Over Time?</h2>Repeated charging and discharging take a toll on batteries, but the primary factor behind battery degradation is heat. Excessive heat can cause the battery's internal structure to crystallise, reducing its efficiency. This is why the goal of many manufacturers is to minimise heat generation during the charging process. Over the years, companies have developed technologies to reduce heat in the battery and mitigate its negative effects on the overall battery health. While fast charging is convenient, it can degrade the battery over time if not managed properly. The higher power levels generate more heat, accelerating battery wear and reducing capacity over multiple charging cycles. Modern batteries and chargers are equipped with features, such as temperature sensors and power regulation systems, to minimise damage. Although fast charging can shorten battery lifespan when used frequently, devices often slow the charging speed as they approach full capacity to mitigate these effects. As a result, the battery may not last as long as with slower charging, requiring more frequent recharges over time. <h2>Charging technologies over time</h2>Smartphone brands, especially in India, have been at the forefront of charging technology innovations: OnePlus launched <keyword id="24069277" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="warp-charge" source="keywords">Warp Charge</keyword> in 2019 with 30W charging, and now offers solutions up to 150W. Xiaomi introduced <keyword id="24069278" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="hypercharge" source="keywords">HyperCharge</keyword> in 2021 with 120W, and is working on a 300W solution for full charges in under 10 minutes. Oppo debuted SuperVOOC in 2018, starting at 50W, and is aiming for 300W charging. Realme launched Dart Charge in 2020 with 65W and in 2024, showcased 320W SuperSonic charging. Samsung has used <keyword id="24069279" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="adaptive-fast-charging" source="keywords">Adaptive Fast Charging</keyword> since 2014, and now focuses on wireless charging and long-term battery health. <keyword id="19894961" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="apple" source="keywords">Apple</keyword> introduced MagSafe in 2020, prioritising eco-friendly wireless charging advancements. <h2>Consumer perceptions and misconceptions</h2>Many consumers believe fast charging always damages batteries, but modern devices are designed with features to manage heat and voltage, minimising harm. Another common misconception is that using third-party chargers will destroy the battery, but reputable third-party chargers that meet safety standards are safe to use. Some people worry that fast charging is inherently unsafe, but certified chargers follow strict regulations to prevent damage. It’s also often assumed that fast charging continues at high speeds until the battery reaches 100%, but in fact, most systems slow down near full capacity to protect the battery. Lastly, people may believe that all chargers offer fast charging, but fast charging only works with devices and chargers that support the same technology, like USB-PD or Quick Charge. <h2>Best practices for charging</h2>To extend <keyword id="158949" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="battery-life" source="Orion">battery life</keyword>, it’s best to avoid letting your battery drop below 20% or charge above 80% frequently, as extreme charge levels can strain the battery. Always use certified chargers and cables to ensure stable power delivery. Keep your device cool while charging, as excessive heat can cause damage. Avoid heavy usage during charging, as it generates heat. Enable "optimised charging" feature, available on many devices, to regulate charging speed and patterns. If fast charging is necessary, use it sparingly and rely on slower charging for routine use. Finally, unplug the charger once the device is fully charged to prevent unnecessary trickle charging over time. <h2>The future of smartphone batteries</h2>Looking ahead, the future of smartphone batteries includes promising advancements in solid-state and graphene technologies, which could offer faster charging, longer battery life, and higher energy density. Additionally, sodium-ion and lithium-sulphur batteries are being investigated as eco-friendly alternatives. <keyword id="20016522" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="gan" source="keywords">GaN</keyword> (gallium nitride) technology is paving the way for ultra-fast chargers, and wireless and over-the-air charging innovations promise to provide smarter, greener, and more efficient solutions. By understanding how batteries work, the impact of fast charging, and best practices for maintaining battery health, consumers can make informed choices that balance convenience and long-term battery performance.

Speed vs. Longevity: The impact of fast charging on your smartphone battery life

Dear reader, Another week comes to an end, and with it, a fresh roundup of stories shaping the business and finance landscapes. This week, we explored data that challenges the idea that large IPOs automatically lead to large returns—18 of India’s biggest IPOs fell short of expectations. On the investment front, experts debunked the popular advice of ‘<keyword id="23577643" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="buying-the-dip" source="keywords">buying the dip</keyword>’ and suggest a better approach for long-term success. And in the world of <keyword id="19963428" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="quick-commerce" source="keywords">quick commerce</keyword>, recent incidents like bizarre notifications and uncalled-for freebies piqued social media's interest. For stargazers and romantics, the upcoming <keyword id="22852367" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Hunters-Moon" source="keywords">Hunter’s Moon</keyword> offers a beautiful setting for a moonlit night. And for career climbers, we have insights from a <keyword id="21560867" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="product-manager" source="keywords">product manager</keyword> who landed a $180,000 role at <keyword id="19904352" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Cisco" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="Cisco" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="Cisco">Cisco</keyword>, sharing <keyword id="21767233" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="resume-tips" source="keywords">resume tips</keyword> to help you stand out. Dive in, and enjoy this week’s highlights! <h2>Top stories of the week</h2> Do large IPOs guarantee large returns? Data suggests that 18 of India's biggest 30 IPOs did not generate solid returns A study of India’s top 30 IPOs reveals that a majority—18 of them—failed to deliver substantial returns to investors. Despite the hype surrounding large public offerings, data shows that a company’s size or popularity doesn’t always correlate with strong post-IPO performance. Investors are urged to manage their expectations and conduct thorough research before jumping into large IPOs, as high-profile launches don’t guarantee hefty returns. <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/finance/news/do-large-ipos-guarantee-large-returns-data-suggests-that-18-of-indias-biggest-30-ipos-did-not-generate-hefty-returns/articleshow/114302378.cms" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">Read more</a> Free tomatoes to i-pill notification, recent quick commerce incidents that sparked outrage Recent incidents in India’s quick commerce sector have sparked widespread outrage, ranging from offering free tomatoes as promotional giveaways to sending unsolicited I-Pill notifications to customers. These occurrences highlight issues around <keyword id="19999043" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="consumer-privacy" source="keywords">consumer privacy</keyword>, safety, and inappropriate marketing strategies. As rapid delivery services continue to expand, so do concerns about their ethical and operational practices. <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/business/news/free-tomatoes-to-i-pill-notification-recent-quick-commerce-incidents-that-sparked-outrage/articleshow/114315992.cms" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">Read more</a> Why "buying the dip" is not always good advice, and the right time to start is now The age-old investment advice of ‘buying the dip’ may not always hold true, especially in unpredictable markets. Experts argue that waiting for stocks to drop before investing could result in missed opportunities, as market timings are nearly impossible to predict. Instead, the best strategy for long-term investors may be to focus on consistent investing, with the right time to start being now. <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/stock-market/news/why-buying-the-dip-is-not-always-good-advice-the-right-time-to-start-is-now/articleshow/114253456.cms" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">Read more</a> Why this week's Hunter's Moon is the ultimate backdrop for the perfect moonlit date night The upcoming Hunter’s Moon, which will grace the skies this week, offers the perfect opportunity for a romantic, moonlit night. This full moon is not only visually stunning but also holds cultural significance, symbolizing harvest and abundance. For those seeking an atmospheric, nature-infused experience, this celestial event promises to be the ultimate backdrop for a memorable date night. <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/science/space/article/why-this-weeks-hunters-moon-is-the-ultimate-backdrop-for-the-perfect-moonlit-date-night/articleshow/114317181.cms" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">Read more</a> A product manager shares the résumé that helped him transition from consulting and land a $180,000 role at Cisco Transitioning from consulting to a high-paying role as a product manager at Cisco, one professional shared the resume that helped him land the $180,000 job. His strategic approach included tailoring his CV to highlight relevant skills and experiences, positioning himself as the perfect candidate for the tech giant. Aspiring product managers can take notes on crafting resumes that stand out in competitive job markets. <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/careers/news/a-product-manager-shares-the-rsum-that-helped-him-transition-from-consulting-and-land-a-180000-role-at-cisco/articleshow/114232654.cms" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">Read more</a> <h2><h2>Web Stories </h2> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/international/webstories/india-canada-tussle-a-timeline-of-escalating-tensions-under-trudeaus-regime/slidelist/114283096.cms" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">India-Canada Tussle: A timeline of escalating tensions under Trudeau’s regime</a><a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/international/webstories/india-canada-tussle-a-timeline-of-escalating-tensions-under-trudeaus-regime/slidelist/114283096.cms" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank"></a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/international/webstories/the-weirdest-guinness-world-records-ever-set/slidelist/114288059.cms" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">The weirdest Guinness World records ever set</a><a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/international/webstories/the-weirdest-guinness-world-records-ever-set/slidelist/114288059.cms" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank"></a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/travel/india/webstories/from-amber-to-gagron-indias-unesco-world-heritage-forts-to-explore/slidelist/114282776.cms" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">Amber to Gagron: India’s UNESCO world heritage forts to explore</a> </h2>

Weekend wrap: IPO myths, quick commerce gone wrong and more

Back in the good old days, going to the grocery store or the supermarket for a last-minute errand was commonplace. However, in 2024, <keyword id="19963428" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="quick-commerce" source="keywords">quick commerce</keyword> apps like <keyword id="19939134" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Zepto" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="Zepto" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="Zepto">Zepto</keyword>, <keyword id="20069203" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Blinkit" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="Blinkit" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="Blinkit">Blinkit</keyword> and <keyword id="19939135" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="Swiggy-Instamart" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="Swiggy Instamart" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="Swiggy Instamart">Swiggy Instamart</keyword> have made lives easier in India. Need some supplies for a party that was planned minutes ago? You got it. Out of milk or vegetables? No problem. Almost any grievance can be solved by these apps and they keep on adding new features to enhance customer experience. But at times, things go awry and what starts as a simple delivery can spark public outcry. Let us take a look at some recent incidents where quick commerce platforms missed the mark, causing waves across social media. <h2>Big Basket’s combo gone wrong </h2> <keyword id="19939136" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="BigBasket" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="BigBasket" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="BigBasket">BigBasket</keyword> recently found itself the subject of social media chatter after a customer praised a unique discount combo: sanitary napkins paired with Kwality Walls vanilla ice cream. Meant to cater to the needs of women during menstruation, the combo drew both laughter and admiration from online users. “Well played, BigBasket,” the user wrote, tagging the platform and attaching screenshot of the combo she received. However, things took a bizarre turn when BigBasket responded with an apology, assuming the praise was a complaint. “We regret the inconvenience caused,” they wrote, requesting the customer’s contact details. The automated response ignited further humour online. Users quickly jumped in with comments like, “Bruh, she’s praising you, why are you sorry?” and “Bot life is so awkward.” What could have been a PR win for BigBasket turned into a comical misunderstanding that highlighted the sometimes robotic nature of customer service. <h2>Zepto’s <keyword id="23584077" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="I-Pill-notification" source="keywords">I-Pill notification</keyword> </h2> In Bengaluru, Zepto faced backlash after sending an inappropriate push notification to customer Pallavi Pareek. The message, reading, “I miss you, Pallavi. Says i-Pill emergency contraceptive pill,” followed by teary-eyed emojis, left Pallavi shocked. Given her professional work in diversity and inclusion, she took to LinkedIn to highlight the inappropriateness of the message, especially as she had never ordered the product. Pallavi’s post quickly went viral, with many users pointing out the dangers of insensitive messaging in quick commerce. Zepto swiftly issued an apology, acknowledging their error and promising to retrain their staff. While the company’s fast response tempered some of the outrage, the incident served as a stark reminder of the importance of responsible communication, especially in relation to sensitive products. <h2>Free tomato controversy </h2> In another curious incident, a Bengaluru-based product designer called out Swiggy Instamart for adding <keyword id="23540990" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="free-tomatoes" source="keywords">free tomatoes</keyword> to his order without consent. Chandra Ramanujan labelled it a “dark pattern”—a term used to describe deceptive design practices that manipulate user choices. Ramanujan took to social media to express his frustration: “I don’t want tomatoes, but I cannot remove them from my cart.” Though Swiggy wasn’t charging for the tomatoes, the incident raised broader questions about consumer autonomy in online shopping. Some users echoed Ramanujan’s concerns, stating that customers should always have the option to refuse freebies. Swiggy has yet to respond to the uproar, but the incident fuelled online discussions about transparency in e-commerce. <h2>Blinkit’s underwear mishap </h2> Last month, Priyansh, a Blinkit customer, ordered men’s underwear and received women’s bikini briefs instead. Unable to get a refund or return through customer service, Priyansh took to X, where his frustration quickly went viral. Blinkit’s failure to address the issue sparked discussions about the platform’s return policies, with many users calling for better customer support. Despite the widespread attention, Blinkit has remained silent, further aggravating the situation. As of now, Priyansh’s viral tweet, which has amassed millions of views, continues to serve as a cautionary tale for platforms ignoring customer grievances.

Free tomatoes to i-pill notification, recent quick commerce incidents that sparked outrage

Food and grocery delivery behemoth <keyword id="6358977" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Swiggy" source="Orion">Swiggy</keyword> is on a roll, pushing out multiple new services simultaneously, ahead of the festive season, and its much-touted Rs 11,664 crore IPO. Experts anticipate the IPO to hit the bourses in the upcoming months. Earlier last week, the company's shareholders had approved of raising the fresh issue component of the IPO, from Rs 3,750 crore previously to Rs 5,000 crore. This will allow Swiggy to add an extra Rs 1,250 crores to its coffers for future growth. The remaining Rs 6,664 crore will be an OFS (offer for sale), largely paving a way for Swiggy's old investors to exit. In the buildup to its IPO, the delivery giant is dialing up the competitive fever big time with rival <keyword id="19901323" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Zomato" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="Zomato" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="Zomato">Zomato</keyword>, which went public in 2021. Swiggy recently launched <keyword id="23440051" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="XL-Fleet" source="keywords">XL Fleet</keyword> for large-scale <keyword id="20299302" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="food-delivery" source="keywords">food delivery</keyword> and Bolt, which is an <keyword id="23461052" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="AI-powered-logistics" source="keywords">AI-powered logistics</keyword> system. Per some media reports, the company is also launching an invite-only concierge membership program called the "Rare Club", which will have an annual fee of up to Rs 50,000. <h2>Who doesn't love a little pettiness? </h2>But that's not it. In the time being, Swiggy is also aggressively looking for ways to gain maximum public attention, one of which is by sponsoring the fourth season of the popular entrepreneurial reality show <keyword id="11924074" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="shark-tank-india" source="Orion">Shark Tank India</keyword>. But here's the catch-a key condition of this deal is to not bring back Zomato CEO <keyword id="19901325" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="deepinder-goyal" source="keywords">Deepinder Goyal</keyword> as a shark. Media reports suggest that Swiggy is set to close on a massive Rs 40-60 crore sponsorship deal with the show. But in a seemingly low-ball move, Swiggy has blocked the return of Zomato CEO Deepinder Goyal as one of the investors on the show. Goyal had made his debut on the third season of the show, and was looking to make a comeback alongside long-time regulars such as Anupam Mittal, Aman Gupta, Namita Thapar and Peyush Bansal. <h2>Bolting ahead with XL</h2>In a move that clearly underlines its ambitious expansion plans, Swiggy also recently announced the launch of its new XL Fleet service, which will look to cater exclusively to bulk orders and large-scale food deliveries. Per Swiggy's co-founder Nandan Reddy, XL is a natural evolution of Swiggy's services. As it is, a recent report by Bain and Company highlighted that India's food services market is set to double to a massive Rs 9 trillion by 2030, surging up significantly from its current standing of Rs 5.5 trillion. Not just that, the customer base is also set to expand from 320-340 million as of 2023 to 430-450 million by the end of the decade. Earlier this year, Zomato had also stepped in this segment by launching its large-order electric fleet, which could serve orders for a gathering of up to 50 people. Alongside this, Swiggy has unveiled Bolt, which is an AI-powered logistics system specifically designed to optimize delivery routes, predict demand patterns, and improve overall operational efficiency. The aim is to bring down on delivery time and costs, giving Swiggy a massive competitive edge in the growing food and quick delivery market. With this feature, Swiggy claims that users can get certain meals such as burgers, <h2>Challenges Await </h2>As of FY24, Swiggy's operating revenue stood at ₹112.5 billion, a 36% jump from the previous year. The company also managed to reduce its net losses by as much as 44% to ₹23.5 billion. While these may come across as positive signs, which are also pushing the company's unlisted shares to new heights, Swiggy significantly lags behind Zomato in both food delivery and quick commerce segment. Consider this. Per Morgan Stanely, as of FY24, Swiggy's GOV (gross order value) at Rs 24,700 crore, was far lower than Zomato's Rs 32,200 crore. Swiggy's GOV and AOV grew at a CAGR of 15.5% and 2.5% respectively, between FY22-24. In contrast, Zomato's GOV and AOV registered a CAGR of 23% and 3.7%, respectively. At 12.7 million, Swiggy's MTU (monthly transacting users) for FY24 were also a far cry behind Zomato's 18.4 million. Even when it comes to average order value (AOV), Swiggy's Instamart lags behind Zomato's Blinkit. This is also why analysts believe that despite Swiggy narrowing the gap on most key metrics like AOV, GOV and more, the company's share will command a lower valuation than that of its rival Zomato.

Ahead of much awaited IPO, what is Swiggy upto? Launching XL Fleet, premium membership and kicking out Zomato CEO

<ul class="summary-list"><li>Amazon is reportedly developing <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/meta-ray-ban-smart-glasses-gen-z-friends-review-photos-2023-11">smart glasses</a> that its delivery workers could use.</li><li>The glasses could provide navigation and take pictures of packages upon delivery, Reuters reported.</li></ul><a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/amazon-delivery-driver-pay-rise-union-pressure-2024-9">Amazon</a>'s next attempt to speed up package delivery may involve smart glasses.The online retailer is developing glasses for its delivery workers that could show them exactly where to go in a building, such as which way to turn in order to find a delivery location, and take pictures of packages once they're delivered, <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.reuters.com/technology/amazon-developing-driver-eyeglasses-shave-seconds-off-deliveries-sources-say-2024-11-11/">Reuters reported</a> on Monday, citing unnamed sources with knowledge of the project.Having that information on a small screen embedded in the glasses instead of a smartphone or other hand-held device would free up workers to carry more packages and save time on deliveries, Reuters reported.The project, known within Amazon by the code name "Amelia," is far from certain to launch, according to the report. Some challenges that Amazon has reportedly faced include creating a battery with enough capacity for a several-hour-long delivery shift and gathering enough location data for the glasses to guide workers."We are continuously innovating to create an even safer and better delivery experience for drivers," an Amazon spokesperson told Business Insider. "We otherwise don't comment on our product roadmap."Amazon, like Meta and Snap, has previously developed smart glasses that were consumer-facing.Amazon has offered <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/amazon-echo-frames-smart-glasses-hands-on-2019-9">Echo Frames</a>, its smart glasses for consumers with voice assistant Alexa integrated, since 2019. The Echo Frames don't include cameras or an integrated display but do feature microphones and built-in speakers. Amazon is using Echo Frames as the basis of its delivery-focused version, according to Reuters. Sales of the latest version of Echo Frames totaled fewer than 10,000 over the past year, according to the report.Glasses for delivery drivers would be another way that Amazon is using technology to try to make its delivery operations more efficient, especially during the final stretch, or "last mile," of delivery.Amazon is already planning to add <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.aboutamazon.com/news/transportation/amazon-vapr-delivery-van-packages">AI technology</a> that will show its delivery people which packages to deliver in the back of delivery vans at specific stops starting in early 2025.The company announced in July that it had delivered 5 billion items to Prime members globally on the same day or the following day so far this year, a 30% year-over-year increase. Over the years, some <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/amazon-delivery-drivers-dsps-working-conditions-legal-threat-2021-9">Amazon delivery workers</a> have said that Amazon has highly ambitious delivery targets and expects them to deliver more packages than they can during their shifts.In October, Amazon CFO Brian Olsavsky said that the company's quick delivery times are making it more attractive for customers to order <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/amazon-seeing-surge-sales-cheaper-items-2024-11">cheap, everyday items</a>, such as beauty products and shelf-stable groceries, from the retailer.Amazon is also opening more facilities designed to deliver customers' orders — including those placed through <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/amazon-prime-orders-deliveries-faster-than-ever-2024-4">Amazon Prime</a> — on the same day that they're placed.Are you an Amazon delivery or retail worker? Do you have information or a story idea to share? Reach out to this reporter at abitter@businessinsider.com

Amazon targets smart glasses that could guide delivery drivers to where to drop off packages, report says

As India gears up for its vibrant festive season, a notable surge in <keyword id="23052492" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="seasonal-hiring" source="keywords">seasonal hiring</keyword> is taking place across various industries, with gig roles leading the charge. According to data from job site Indeed, seasonal hiring is projected to rise by 20% this year compared to last, driven primarily by <keyword id="19990771" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="e-commerce" source="keywords">e-commerce</keyword>, logistics, and retail sectors, as companies prepare for heightened consumer demand. Sashi Kumar, Head of Sales at Indeed India, emphasised, "The festive season is a crucial period for businesses across India, and we're seeing a significant uptick in hiring for seasonal roles as companies prepare to meet heightened consumer demand." <h3 style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:14.0pt;margin-bottom:4.0pt;">What is gig work?</h3>Gig work refers to flexible, short-term, or freelance employment often facilitated by digital platforms. Unlike traditional full-time jobs, gig workers are hired on a project basis, allowing them to work for multiple employers or companies as needed. These roles are popular in industries like food delivery, transportation, and logistics. During India's <keyword id="21015356" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="festival-season" source="keywords">festival season</keyword>, when businesses experience a spike in demand, gig workers play an essential role in ensuring smooth operations across sectors like retail and e-commerce. <h3>Gig labour during festival season</h3>The festive season in India, spanning from September to December, is one of the busiest times of the year for businesses. As a result, companies ramp up hiring to cope with increased sales and customer demand. Seasonal roles in delivery, logistics, warehouse operations, and customer support see the highest demand, as businesses focus on timely deliveries, inventory management, and customer satisfaction. Indeed's data reveals that the top gig roles witnessing a rise in hiring this season include <keyword id="21462485" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="delivery-executives" source="keywords">delivery executives</keyword>, <keyword id="22103182" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="warehouse-workers" source="keywords">warehouse workers</keyword>, <keyword id="23052493" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="logistics-coordinators" source="keywords">logistics coordinators</keyword>, <keyword id="23052494" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="in-store-sales-executives" source="keywords">in-store sales executives</keyword>, and customer care executives. While major cities like Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Delhi see a steady increase in demand for gig workers (18-20%), tier-2 and tier-3 cities like Nagpur, Jaipur, and Vadodara are emerging as key contributors, witnessing a hiring surge of 22-25%. <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="112999246" title="As fast as some jobs are growing, others are losing steam" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div><h3><keyword id="3480589" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="meesho" source="Orion">Meesho</keyword> major contributor</h3>One of the standout examples this festive season is Meesho, a leading e-commerce marketplace in India. According to sources, the platform has enabled around 8.5 lakh seasonal job opportunities, representing a 70% increase from last year. Of these, 5 lakh jobs were created within Meesho's seller network, while another 3.5 lakh jobs emerged in the logistics sector. Sourabh Pandey, CXO of Fulfilment and Experience at Meesho, shared, "This festive season, we are particularly thrilled to have enabled 8.5 lakh seasonal jobs, especially in tier-3 and beyond cities. Empowering SMBs, local manufacturers, and logistics providers to scale their business is resulting in meaningful economic opportunities that are driving financial inclusion in these regions." Meesho has reportedly also partnered with prominent third-party logistics providers such as Delhivery, Ecom Express, and Shadowfax to meet the increased demands of the festive season. These collaborations have not only expanded logistics capacity but also helped generate gig opportunities in first-mile, middle-mile, and delivery associate roles. Abhishek Bansal, CEO &amp; Co-founder of Shadowfax, commented, "We are particularly excited to nearly double our capacity across several value-added services, such as Reverse Quality Check-Based Pickups and Hand-to-Hand Doorstep Exchange. These efforts ensure smooth deliveries and returns during the festive rush." <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="112720685" title="If you want to find a job, it&amp;#39;s time to specialize" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div><h3 style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:14.0pt;margin-bottom:4.0pt;">The future of gig work in India</h3>The rapid rise in <keyword id="23052491" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="gig-hiring" source="keywords">gig hiring</keyword> reflects the evolving needs of today's consumers, particularly during high-demand periods like the festive season. The e-commerce industry, which saw a 35% rise in demand for seasonal workers, is expected to continue driving this trend, with logistics and retail sectors close behind. "The industries that are growing — e-commerce, logistics, quick commerce — are doing so because they're aligned with the needs and behaviours of today's consumers,” Sashi Kumar explains. “This is where the future of India's <keyword id="19916569" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="job-market" source="keywords">job market</keyword> could be heading". With a flurry of companies contributing significantly to job creation, particularly in tier-3 and tier-4 cities, gig work is becoming a vital source of employment across the country. As India's job market evolves, gig work is likely to play an even larger role in shaping the future of work, offering flexibility and economic opportunity to millions of workers. (With inputs from agencies)

E-commerce is expected to help seasonal hiring for gig roles surge by 20% this festival season: reports

In today’s market, where convenience is the king, it's getting increasingly possible to get almost everything under the Sun home-delivered in urban India. But not the alcohol! Now, major players like <keyword id="19896956" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Swiggy" source="keywords">Swiggy</keyword>, Zomato, <keyword id="20069203" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Blinkit" source="keywords">Blinkit</keyword>, and BigBasket are eyeing this lucrative opportunity, ready to transform the way we enjoy our evenings (or feed our vices depending on how one takes it). As regulations offer hopes of loosening with the rising consumer demand, the question on everyone's mind is: will <keyword id="22432889" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="alcohol-home-delivery" source="keywords">alcohol home delivery</keyword> become the new norm? As per the media reports, the quick commerce platforms might soon start delivering low-alcohol drinks like beer, wine, and liqueurs, at least in some parts of the country. A report from the Economic Times reveals that states like New Delhi, Karnataka, Haryana, Punjab, Tamil Nadu, Goa, and Kerala are thinking about trying out this service. Industry executives say that authorities are currently looking at the advantages and disadvantages of allowing alcohol deliveries. <h2>State authorities collecting feedback</h2>State authorities are reportedly collecting views from <keyword id="22432890" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="instant-delivery-platforms" source="Orion">instant delivery platforms</keyword> and spirit manufacturers for assessing the pros and cons of delivering low-alcohol liquors. "This is to cater to a growing expat population, especially in larger cities, changing profiles of consumers who perceive moderate alcohol-content spirits as recreational drinking along with meals, and women and senior citizens who have flagged buying from traditional liquor vends and shop-front experiences as unpleasant," one of the executives told Economic Times. According to the ET report, only Odisha and West Bengal allow home delivery of alcohol at the moment. During the COVID-19 lockdown, Maharashtra, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, and Assam also allowed it temporarily, and it was successful despite some restrictions and hurdles. <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="111758782" title="Zomato and Swiggy increase platform fee by 20% – food deliveries to get costlier" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div> <h2>Enthusiasm grows across sectors</h2>Retail industry executives say that online alcohol deliveries have increased sales by 20-30% in West Bengal and Odisha. Although the idea of online home delivery of liquor faced several challenges including political backlash and pressure from physical retail bodies. For now Swiggy and Spencer’s retail delivers spirits in West Bengal. Dinker Vashisht, vice president of corporate affairs at Swiggy said “Online models ensure end-to-end transaction records, age verification and adhere to limits. Further, online tech stacks synchronise with regulatory and excise requirements, ensuring adherence to timings, dry days and zonal delivery guardrails” Beer manufacturers like United Breweries and AB InBev are also interested in this concept, an industry executive told ET. “Beer blends more with grocery shopping, especially for consumers in big cities, and needs to be chilled, which limits its visibility in liquor vends.” In 2020, AB InBev started Beerbox, a platform that listed places delivering alcohol within a 3-4 km range. This was after Maharashtra temporarily allowed home deliveries during the pandemic. Overall, as regulations, consumer demand, and the capacity of online quick-commerce platforms align, the days of cancelling the evening plans to avoid stepping out to buy alcohol might soon be behind us. SEE ALSO: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/business/news/jio-financials-gets-rbi-nod-to-become-core-investment-company/articleshow/111677548.cms" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">Jio Financials gets RBI nod to become Core Investment Company</a>

Will alcohol home delivery be a reality soon? Swiggy, Zomato, and Blinkit smell an opportunity

Festive season is underway and with barely a day left in Diwali, things are in full swing. On the occasion of <keyword id="23288581" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Dhanteras" source="keywords">Dhanteras</keyword> yesterday, quick commerce platforms like <keyword id="20069203" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="Blinkit" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="Blinkit" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="Blinkit">Blinkit</keyword>, Zepto and <keyword id="19939135" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="swiggy-instamart" source="keywords">Swiggy Instamart</keyword> were selling gold and silver coins, promising deliveries of the same within minutes. However, for a Delhi resident, ordering a <keyword id="21592794" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="gold-coin" source="keywords">gold coin</keyword> on Blinkit didn't go as expected. <keyword id="21245638" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="mohit-jain" source="keywords">Mohit Jain</keyword>, hailing from Delhi, recently shared his dissatisfaction after allegedly receiving the wrong item. According to a post on X, Jain claims he ordered a 1-gram gold coin along with a 10-gram silver coin on Blinkit, only to discover a 0.5-gram gold coin in the package instead. According to Jain, the order was prepaid, and he wasn’t home at the time of delivery, so he had his younger brother handle the transaction. After providing his brother with the necessary OTP, Jain was confident everything was okay. However, upon returning home 20 minutes later, he was dismayed to find the wrong coin in the delivery—an issue that only grew as he tried to resolve it. In a detailed post shared on X (formerly Twitter), Jain explained how he ordered 1 gm gold coin, but what he received was a 0.5 gm <keyword id="20650343" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Malabar-Gold" source="keywords">Malabar Gold</keyword> coin with a rose design instead. Jain added that he reached out to the delivery agent and "almost cried". "I ordered 1 gm gold coin from blinkit, along with the 1gm silver coin. It was all prepaid. I wasn't there at home to receive the order, so I gave the otp to my younger brother to get it received. After 20 mins I reached home and saw wrong item was delivered I. I got 0.5gm Malabar gold coin (rose design). What I ordered was 1 gm Mata lakshmi gold coin," he wrote. Jain’s struggle didn’t end with the delivery mix-up. By the time he tried to address the issue, the 20-minute return window for the product had expired. Attempts to get in touch with Blinkit’s customer support proved equally frustrating. Jain shared screenshots of his conversation with Blinkit’s customer service team, where the automated response informed him that the return window had closed and suggested only that he “provide feedback to help improve services.” He added, "I couldn't contact any support executive. I called the delivery executive and literally cried while talking to him. He has the photos of coin before the delivery but he said that he can't do anything even after knowing that he delivered the wrong item. I do have CCTV footages too of getting wrong item delivered. Also It was the first and last time of me ordering something so expensive from blinkit as their customer support is pathetic, have to chat with AI bots." In an attempt to back up his claim, Jain also reviewed CCTV footage from his home that showed the delivery of the incorrect item. He posted images of both the 0.5-gram coin he received and the screenshot of his original order, which clearly displayed the request for a 1-gram coin featuring <keyword id="20375971" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="goddess-lakshmi" source="keywords">Goddess Lakshmi</keyword>. His tweet quickly gained traction, capturing the attention of other Blinkit users and sparking discussions about the platform’s handling of high-value items.

'I was scammed, cried while talking to delivery executive': Man orders gold coin from Blinkit, claims to receive wrong item

<ul class="summary-list"><li>Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said another Patriot system had arrived from Germany.</li><li>The air-defense system has been a key Ukrainian ask, but allies have been reluctant to give theirs.</li></ul>Ukraine has received <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/us-to-halt-orders-patriot-missiles-send-to-ukraine-ft-2024-6">another Patriot air-defense system</a> to try to help it combat Russia's air attacks across the country.Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said in an address on Sunday that another Patriot system had arrived from Germany — Ukraine's third one from the country.Ukraine has so far received at least four of the in-demand air-defense systems from its allies, but the exact number and their locations are kept secret.Western countries have also recently committed to sending Ukraine at least four more."We can already say that our air defense has been bolstered," Zelenskyy said. "The German "Patriot" system has arrived in Ukraine, and I would like to thank Germany and the United States for this step. We will be able to do more in the skies."Zelenskyy added, however, that "of course, there is still much work ahead, and this is far from guaranteed protection, but nevertheless, it means more strength for Ukraine."The MIM-104 Patriot missile system is the most advanced air-defense system that Ukraine has been <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/why-did-russia-invade-ukraine-putin-politics-motive-2023-6">given to fight back against Russia's invasion</a>.Ukraine has used it to stop Russian drone and missile attacks, and to <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/ukraine-uses-patriot-missiles-down-russian-a50-spy-plane-us-2024-6">shoot down advanced Russian aircraft</a>.The Patriot's performance in Ukraine has been so successful that air warfare experts previously told Business Insider that <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/patriot-performance-in-ukraine-dispels-doubts-over-abilities-experts-2024-3">lingering doubts about the system had now been dispelled</a>.Ukraine has needed a large number of air defenses since Russia launched its full-scale invasion in February 2022.Russia's strategy has often involved sending drones and missiles across the country, far from the fighting in the east, destroying infrastructure and killing civilians.Russia's missile and drone attacks have been escalating for weeks, with strikes on residential areas, including a children's hospital in Kyiv.Zelenskyy said earlier this month that his country needed 25 Patriots to defend it from Russian missile attacks.Ukraine's use of air defense systems has allowed it to largely deny its airspace to Russian aircraft, something that experts say is a remarkable achievement given Ukraine has a much smaller and older air force.But air warfare analysts warn that Ukraine running low on air defenses would be a disaster for the country, as it <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/russia-air-force-enter-devastate-ukraine-if-missiles-run-out-2024-2">would allow Russia's air force to fly freely, which is something that could quickly bring about the end of the war</a>.

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