Category Archives: business

ai, business, science, technology

New patent shows Gemini activates when phone nears your face

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**New Patent Reveals Gemini AI Assistant Activates When Phone Nears Your Face**

*By Akash Pandey | Oct 03, 2025, 06:50 PM*

Google is developing an innovative way to summon its AI assistant, Gemini, without the need for hotwords or pressing any buttons. According to a recent report by Android Headlines, this advancement comes from a newly filed patent by the tech giant.

### How the Technology Works

Modern smartphones use a capacitive sensor grid within their touchscreens to detect touches by monitoring changes in the electrical field. Google has discovered that these sensors can also sense nearby objects—even without physical contact—such as a user’s face or hand.

When a phone is brought close to a user’s mouth or face, the capacitive sensor grid detects a unique change in the electric field pattern. This distinct pattern signals the system that the user’s face is near, triggering Gemini to activate automatically.

### Benefits to Users

This new activation method offers several advantages. It proves especially useful in scenarios where traditional voice commands or button presses are challenging, such as when wearing a mask or in noisy environments.

Additionally, since it relies on low-power capacitive sensors, this system is energy-efficient and unlikely to drain your phone’s battery significantly.

The report also suggests that over time, this detection method could become smarter and more accurate, improving the overall user experience.

### What’s Next?

Despite the exciting potential of this technology, there is currently no information on when it might be released to Android users. The details are based solely on the patent filing, so it remains uncertain how or when Google plans to implement this feature in future smartphones.

For now, many devices still rely on a dedicated AI key or customizable button to manually activate Gemini.

Stay tuned for updates as this technology develops and moves closer to real-world application.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/science/google-is-working-on-new-way-to-summon-gemini/story

automotive, business, industry, sales, technology

Maruti Suzuki’s Victoris registers 25,000+ bookings: Check waiting period

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**Maruti Suzuki Victoris Registers Over 25,000 Bookings; Waiting Period Extends Up to 10 Weeks**

*By Akash Pandey | Oct 03, 2025, 03:29 PM*

Maruti Suzuki’s latest mid-size SUV, the **Victoris**, has received an overwhelming response since its launch just a few weeks ago. Available through the brand’s Arena dealerships, the vehicle has already garnered over **25,000 bookings** in just over two weeks, marking a strong debut for Maruti’s flagship offering under its Arena retail network.

### High Demand Pushes Waiting Period to 10 Weeks

The massive demand for the Victoris has led to a waiting period extending up to **10 weeks**. However, this timeline may vary depending on the variant, color preference, and the buyer’s region. The SUV is offered in **six main variants** and boasts **10 color options**, further supported by three engine choices and three transmission options to cater to diverse customer needs.

### Strategic Launch to Boost Festive Sales

The launch of the Maruti Suzuki Victoris is a strategic move aimed at strengthening the automaker’s presence in India’s competitive utility vehicle segment. Alongside existing models like the Fronx, Brezza, and Grand Vitara, the Victoris is expected to significantly boost Maruti’s sales during the festive season, aided by reduced GST rates and attractive festive offers.

### Performance and Engine Options

The Victoris impresses with a promising mileage of up to **28.65 km/l**. It comes equipped with three engine options:
– A **1,462cc K15C petrol engine** with strong hybrid technology,
– A petrol-CNG bi-fuel powertrain,
– A **1,490cc M15D petrol motor**.

The SUV also offers multiple transmission choices, including a five-speed manual gearbox, a six-speed automatic unit, and an e-CVT option on the strong hybrid variant. Depending on the engine and transmission selected, the fuel economy varies between **19.07 km/l and 28.65 km/l**.

### Competing in a Crowded Segment

The Maruti Suzuki Victoris takes on well-established rivals like the **Kia Seltos**, **Hyundai Creta**, and **Volkswagen Taigun**. With its diverse engine lineup, practical transmission options, and competitive pricing, the Victoris aims to carve out a significant share in the mid-size SUV market.

—

The Victoris’ rapid booking numbers and extended waiting list highlight Maruti Suzuki’s successful strategy and the model’s strong appeal among Indian customers looking for a versatile and efficient SUV this festive season.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/auto/maruti-suzuki-victoris-gets-25-000-bookings-in-2-weeks/story

automotive, business, holidays, india, sales

Maruti Suzuki hits decade high, delivers 1.65L vehicles this Navratri

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**Maruti Suzuki Hits Decade High, Delivers 1.65 Lakh Vehicles This Navratri**

*By Akash Pandey | Oct 03, 2025, 04:35 PM*

Maruti Suzuki has achieved a remarkable milestone by delivering a staggering 1.65 lakh vehicles in the first eight days of Navratri. This marks the first time in a decade that the company’s deliveries during the festive period have crossed the one-lakh mark, underscoring strong demand momentum. Partho Banerjee, Senior Executive Officer for Marketing and Sales, shared these insights during an interview with CNBC TV18.

**Sales Strategy and Backlog Management**

At the start of October, Maruti Suzuki was managing a backlog of nearly 2.5 lakh vehicles. To address this high demand, the company has ramped up operations significantly. Supply chain and production teams have been working on Sundays and holidays throughout the month to ensure timely deliveries. Banerjee cautioned customers that those delaying their bookings might have to wait until after the festive season for their vehicle delivery.

**Export Growth and Electric Vehicle Expansion**

Maruti Suzuki’s export numbers have also seen impressive growth, with shipments rising nearly 50% last month. Particularly notable is the export of electric vehicles (EVs), with around 3,000 units shipped to international markets including Japan, the Middle East, and European countries such as Norway, Denmark, Belgium, and Switzerland. Banerjee mentioned that the company will reassess its export target of four lakh units for the year, carefully balancing overseas shipments alongside robust domestic demand.

**Shifts in Consumer Behavior and Market Dynamics**

The company has observed a shift in consumer preferences, with many two-wheeler owners upgrading to entry-level cars. Additionally, existing customers are moving from models like Alto and WagonR to higher-end options such as Baleno, Fronx, and Brezza. Rural markets played a key role in this growth, accounting for 51% of sales in September—slightly surpassing urban market sales at 49%.

Market expert Mayuresh Joshi remains optimistic about Maruti Suzuki’s future prospects, citing these trends and the company’s strategic initiatives.

**Stock Performance**

Maruti Suzuki’s stock has reflected its strong performance, trading at ₹15,808 at the time of writing—a slight dip of 0.98% from the previous close. The stock has gained 6.1% over the past month and an impressive 41.3% year-to-date, significantly outperforming the Nifty 50 index, which rose by 4.5% over the same period. Over the last year, the stock has traded between ₹10,725 and ₹16,435.

With strong delivery numbers, expanded export capabilities, and changing consumer preferences, Maruti Suzuki’s outlook remains positive as it continues to capitalize on growing demand both domestically and internationally.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/auto/maruti-suzuki-delivered-whopping-1-65l-vehicles-during-navratri/story

business, entertainment, india, media, movies

Does Prabhas’s ‘The Raja Saab’ have no OTT buyers?

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**Does Prabhas’s ‘The Raja Saab’ Have No OTT Buyers?**

*By Shreya Mukherjee | Oct 03, 2025, 05:12 PM*

**What’s the Story?**

The digital rights deal for Prabhas’s upcoming film, *The Raja Saab*, is yet to be finalized. This delay has reportedly caused concern among the makers, who are actively seeking a lucrative offer for the film’s OTT rights.

**Budget Concerns: Top Platforms Reluctant to Splurge**

The production team has reportedly spent around ₹400 crore on *The Raja Saab*. However, top streaming platforms seem hesitant to invest heavily in acquiring the digital rights. They are reportedly playing hardball in negotiations, aiming to secure a lower price as the makers grow eager to close the deal.

Sources suggest, “The top platforms are not in the mood to shell out huge amounts on this horror comedy which has mostly Telugu nativity.”

**Marketing Strategy: Trailer Released to Generate Buzz**

To keep the film in the public consciousness and attract potential buyers, the makers recently released the trailer for *The Raja Saab*. While Prabhas enjoys a massive fan following worldwide, the film’s genre—a horror comedy, rather than an all-out actioner—is affecting its appeal among the wider audience.

*The Raja Saab* is slated to hit theaters on January 9, 2026.

**Film Insights: What to Know About ‘The Raja Saab’**

Directed by Maruthi, *The Raja Saab* has completed principal shooting except for one romantic song scheduled to be filmed in December. The movie has been in production for over two years and faced delays due to Prabhas’s injury and his busy schedule.

Alongside Prabhas, the film stars Malavika Mohanan, Nidhhi Agerwal, and Riddhi Kumar in lead roles.

Stay tuned for more updates as the film approaches its release date.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/uncertainty-surrounds-the-raja-saab-ott-deal/story

business, culture, international, politics, tragedy

‘Why no panel for Manipur?’: Stalin questions Karur fact-finding mission

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**‘Why No Panel for Manipur?’: Stalin Questions BJP’s Karur Fact-Finding Mission**

*By Chanshimla Varah | Oct 03, 2025, 03:32 PM*

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin has sharply criticized the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for sending a delegation of opposition MPs to Karur following the tragic stampede at a rally led by TVK chief Vijay, which resulted in 41 deaths.

### Stalin Questions BJP’s Selective Approach

Stalin highlighted that the BJP did not send similar fact-finding panels to BJP-ruled states like Manipur during times of ethnic violence, nor when a stampede occurred during the Maha Kumbh in Uttar Pradesh. He accused the party of having political motivations behind their actions in Karur.

### Political Motives Behind Karur Visit

Labeling the BJP’s visit as politically driven, Stalin said, “The BJP’s decision to dispatch a delegation to Karur was not out of concern for Tamil Nadu but because of the upcoming elections.”

He further criticized Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman’s visit to Karur, pointing out that she had ignored Tamil Nadu during three major natural disasters but chose to come after the stampede. Stalin stated, “The BJP is a parasite surviving by sucking the blood of others.”

### BJP Delegation Visits Karur: Hema Malini’s Criticism of Tamil Nadu Government

The BJP’s eight-member team, led by actor and MP Hema Malini, met with the families of those affected by the tragedy. Speaking to the media after the visit, Malini slammed the DMK government, saying it was unfair for a rally featuring a star of Vijay’s stature to be held in a limited space. She claimed that many women and young girls had come to see Vijay and that the TVK had requested a larger venue, which was denied.

### BJP Demands Report on Stampede Causes

The BJP delegation has demanded a detailed report from Stalin outlining the primary factors that led to the stampede. However, they have no legal or constitutional authority to insist on such a report. Former Union Minister Anurag Thakur wrote to Stalin seeking information on the preventive measures planned to avoid similar incidents in the future.

In response, Stalin announced a judicial inquiry headed by retired Justice Aruna Jagadeesan and assured that safety guidelines for future political events would be implemented.

—

*This incident has further intensified the ongoing tussle between the Tamil Nadu state government and the central government over fund disbursement and governance issues.*
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/politics/no-panel-for-manipur-stalin-questions-bjp-mps-karur-visit/story

business, culture, international, politics, tragedy

‘Why no panel for Manipur?’: Stalin questions Karur fact-finding mission

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**‘Why no panel for Manipur?’: Stalin Questions BJP’s Karur Fact-Finding Mission**

*By Chanshimla Varah | Oct 03, 2025, 03:32 PM*

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin has strongly criticized the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for sending a delegation of opposition MPs to Karur following a deadly stampede at a rally organized by TVK chief Vijay, which tragically claimed 41 lives.

### Political Motives Behind Karur Visit

Stalin accused the BJP of politicizing the tragedy, asserting that the decision to send a fact-finding teams was motivated by the upcoming elections rather than genuine concern for Tamil Nadu. He questioned why similar delegations were never dispatched to BJP-ruled states like Manipur during times of ethnic violence, or to Uttar Pradesh following the Maha Kumbh stampede.

Highlighting the perceived political nature of the BJP’s actions, Stalin said, “When Tamil Nadu faced three major natural disasters, the Union Finance Minister did not bother to visit. Yet, she made a special trip to Karur. The BJP is like a parasite surviving by sucking the blood of others.”

### Finance Minister’s Controversial Visit

Stalin also took aim at Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman’s visit to Karur, describing it as a “representative” gesture of the central government lacking sincerity. His remarks underline the ongoing friction between the Tamil Nadu government and the BJP-led Union government, especially concerning delayed fund disbursements and disaster response.

### BJP Delegation’s Visit and Response

The BJP dispatched an eight-member delegation, led by actor and MP Hema Malini, to Karur to meet the families of the victims. After the visit, Malini publicly criticized the DMK government, claiming it had failed to provide adequate space for the rally. She remarked, “For a star of his stature, that was unfair. Many women and young girls had come to see Vijay.” She added that the TVK had actually requested a larger venue.

### Demand for a Detailed Report

In the wake of the stampede, the BJP delegation has demanded a comprehensive report from Stalin’s government outlining the primary factors that led to the tragedy. Former Union Minister Anurag Thakur wrote to Stalin urging him to implement measures that would prevent similar incidents in the future.

In response, Stalin announced the launch of a judicial inquiry headed by retired Justice Aruna Jagadeesan. He also promised to issue new safety guidelines aimed at ensuring security during political events moving forward.

—

This incident and the subsequent political exchanges reflect the tense atmosphere between Tamil Nadu’s state government and the Union government, with both sides attributing blame amid growing electoral stakes.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/politics/no-panel-for-manipur-stalin-questions-bjp-mps-karur-visit/story

business, culture, international, politics, tragedy

‘Why no panel for Manipur?’: Stalin questions Karur fact-finding mission

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**’Why no panel for Manipur?’: Stalin Questions BJP’s Karur Fact-Finding Mission**

*By Chanshimla Varah | Oct 03, 2025, 03:32 PM*

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin has criticized the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for sending a delegation of opposition MPs to Karur in the aftermath of a deadly stampede that claimed 41 lives at a rally organized by TVK chief Vijay.

Stalin questioned why similar panels were not dispatched to BJP-ruled states like Manipur following ethnic violence or during the Maha Kumbh stampede in Uttar Pradesh. He accused the BJP of pursuing political motives rather than genuine concern through such actions.

**Political Motives Behind Karur Visit**

Stalin alleged that the BJP’s initiative to send a fact-finding team to Karur was driven by the upcoming elections rather than a sincere care for Tamil Nadu. He also took aim at Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman’s visit to Karur, calling it a mere “representative” gesture by the central government.

“When Tamil Nadu faced three major natural disasters, the Union Finance Minister did not visit the state, but she chose to come to Karur. The BJP is a parasite surviving by sucking the blood of others,” Stalin remarked.

**BJP Delegation’s Visit and Criticism**

The BJP’s eight-member delegation, led by actor and MP Hema Malini, met with families of the victims in Karur. Following the meeting, Malini criticized the Stalin government for not providing a larger venue for the rally. She stated, “For a star of his stature, this was unfair. Many women and young girls had come to see Vijay.” She also mentioned that TVK had requested more space for the gathering.

**Demand for Report and Inquiry**

The BJP delegation has called on Stalin to submit a detailed report outlining the primary factors that led to the stampede, despite lacking any legal or constitutional authority to demand such a report. Former Union Minister Anurag Thakur wrote to Stalin seeking information on measures being taken to prevent similar incidents in the future.

In response, Stalin announced a judicial inquiry headed by retired Justice Aruna Jagadeesan and promised the implementation of safety guidelines for upcoming political events.

—

*This incident has further strained the ongoing dispute between the Tamil Nadu government and the central government over fund disbursement and administrative cooperation.*
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/politics/no-panel-for-manipur-stalin-questions-bjp-mps-karur-visit/story

business, law, science, technology

OpenAI denies poaching xAI staff, labels Musk’s lawsuit groundless

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OpenAI is moving to have a lawsuit filed by Elon Musk’s AI start-up, xAI, dismissed. The company argues that the lawsuit is an attempt to divert attention from xAI’s own shortcomings.

According to OpenAI, the legal action lacks merit and serves primarily as a distraction from the challenges facing xAI. Details of the case and further developments are awaited as both companies continue to navigate the competitive AI landscape.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/business/openai-seeks-dismissal-of-xai-lawsuit-calls-it-groundless/story

business, law, science, technology

OpenAI denies poaching xAI staff, labels Musk’s lawsuit groundless

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OpenAI is seeking to have a lawsuit filed by Elon Musk’s AI start-up, xAI, dismissed.

The company claims that the lawsuit is an attempt to distract from xAI’s own shortcomings and failures.

This legal action highlights the ongoing tensions between major players in the rapidly evolving AI industry. OpenAI remains firm in its position, emphasizing its commitment to innovation and integrity amidst these challenges.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/business/openai-seeks-dismissal-of-xai-lawsuit-calls-it-groundless/story

business, corruption, government

Finance Ministry Orders Fact-Based Inquiry After Wintrack Inc Alleges Corruption, Harassment By Chennai Customs

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**Finance Ministry Orders Inquiry into Wintrack Inc’s Allegations of Corruption and Harassment Against Chennai Customs**

*New Delhi:* The Finance Ministry announced on Thursday that the Department of Revenue (DoR) has been instructed to conduct a fair, transparent, and fact-based inquiry following allegations of corruption and harassment made by Wintrack Inc (Chennai) against Chennai Customs. The matter is being treated with utmost seriousness.

In a post on X, the Finance Ministry stated that the Government is committed to taking appropriate and expeditious action in accordance with the law and continues to focus on enhancing the ease of doing business.

Wintrack Inc had on Wednesday declared that it would “cease import/export activities in India” from October 1, citing relentless harassment by Chennai Customs officials over the past 45 days.

Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) responded on Wednesday, stating that the issue relates to misdeclaration and misclassification by the importer. The CBIC also mentioned that Chennai Customs has already responded on this aspect and that necessary legal action will be taken.

In its latest post on X, the Finance Ministry confirmed that the Government has taken cognizance of the issue raised by M/s Wintrack Inc (Chennai). A senior DoR officer has been deputed to conduct a detailed factual inquiry, including hearing the concerned parties and officials, and thoroughly examining all relevant documentary evidence.

The Ministry highlighted that in recent years, the Government has implemented several taxpayer-friendly initiatives such as the adoption of the Taxpayer Charter, the introduction of faceless customs procedures, and the establishment of appellate bodies for dispute resolution. These measures aim to enhance transparency and promote ease of doing business.

“The matter is being dealt with utmost seriousness, and the Government is committed to taking appropriate and expeditious action in accordance with the law. It is reiterated that the Government is committed to enhancing ease of doing business,” the Finance Ministry added.

### Wintrack Inc’s Allegations

Wintrack Inc alleged that Chennai Customs retaliated after their bribery practices were exposed twice this year. In a post on X, the company stated:

> “From October 1, 2025, our company will cease import/export activities in India. For the past 45 days, Chennai Customs officials have relentlessly harassed us. After exposing their bribery practices twice this year, they retaliated, effectively crippling our operations and destroying our business in India. We deeply thank everyone who has supported us during these difficult times.”

In another post, Wintrack Inc’s founder, Prawin Ganeshan, shared a video outlining the sequence of events leading to their closure. He urged people to unite against corruption on Gandhi Jayanti:

> “I will stay alive, I will survive, never give up. On this Gandhi Jayanti, let’s all join together to reduce, abolish corrupt hands. I have lost my health, got stress, still little left.”

### Founder’s Account of Events

In the video, Ganeshan recounted incidents starting in January when, after refusing to pay an alleged bribe on a shipment, he recorded a call with an agent and shared it publicly. The shipment was eventually released, and the issue was resolved. He even thanked the customs officials at that time.

However, Ganeshan claimed that problems resurfaced between May and August with escalating bribe demands leading to repeated delays or holds on shipments. He alleged abusive language and continual obstacles related to his consignments.

Even when attempting imports through a new company registered in his wife’s name, similar demands and delays persisted.

He concluded with a firm stance:

> “I decided I’m no longer going to do business in India in the form of importer, exporter, anything… I just appeal to all importers and exporters, if each one of you also raises your voice against this kind of bribery and corruption, then only can everything be abolished.”

### CBIC’s Response

On Wednesday night, the CBIC responded to Wintrack Inc’s allegations, tagging the Finance Ministry and the office of Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. The CBIC stated:

> “Regarding the allegations of corruption against Chennai Customs raised by @PrawinGaneshan on Twitter, it is clarified that the issue pertains to misdeclaration and misclassification by the importer. Chennai Customs has already responded on this aspect. Subsequently, the importer has shared certain names and screenshots on Twitter. The matter has been noted, and all facts will be duly examined. Necessary action, as warranted under the law, will be taken.”

—

*Note: Except for the headline, this article has not been edited by FPJ’s editorial team and is auto-generated from an agency feed.*
https://www.freepressjournal.in/india/finance-ministry-orders-fact-based-inquiry-after-wintrack-inc-alleges-corruption-harassment-by-chennai-customs