WhatsApp updates its privacy policy for first time in 4 years, more focus on 'Business communications' in coming months

Arguably world's most popular messaging service WhatsApp today announced updates to its privacy policy for the first time in 4 years. The latest update includes details about features such as End to End encryption of messages, WhatsApp as a part of Facebook and how both can serve users better with users consent. The update also throws light on future plans for the messaging service as it shares the detail about testing of the service for business communications which means that in near future you might receive your Bank alerts, flight details etc on WhatsApp rather than as conventional text messages.

WhatsApp privacy policy update

Below is the full text of the blog from WhatsApp.

Today, we’re updating WhatsApp’s terms and privacy policy for the first time in four years, as part of our plans to test ways for people to communicate with businesses in the months ahead. The updated documents also reflect that we’ve joined Facebook and that we've recently rolled out many new features, like end-to-end encryption, WhatsApp Calling, and messaging tools like WhatsApp for web and desktop. You can read the full documents [https://www.whatsapp.com/legal].

People use our app every day to keep in touch with the friends and loved ones who matter to them, and this isn't changing. But as we announced earlier this year, we want to explore ways for you to communicate with *businesses* that matter to you too, while still giving you an experience without third-party banner ads and spam. Whether it's hearing from your bank about a potentially fraudulent transaction, or getting notified by an airline about a delayed flight, many of us get this information elsewhere, including in text messages and phone calls. We want to test these features in the next several months, but need to update our terms and privacy policy to do so.

WhasApp Privacy Policy update

We're also updating these documents to make clear that we've rolled out end-to-end encryption. When you and the people you message are using the latest version of WhatsApp, your messages are encrypted by default, which means you're the only people who can read them. Even as we coordinate more with Facebook in the months ahead, your encrypted messages stay private and no one else can read them. Not WhatsApp, not Facebook, nor anyone else. We won’t post or share your WhatsApp number with others, including on Facebook, and we still won't sell, share, or give your phone number to advertisers.

But by coordinating more with Facebook, we'll be able to do things like track basic metrics about how often people use our services and better fight spam on WhatsApp. And by connecting your phone number with Facebook's systems, Facebook can offer better friend suggestions and show you more relevant ads if you have an account with them. For example, you might see an ad from a company you already work with, rather than one from someone you've never heard of. You can learn more, including how to control the use of your data, [here](https://www.whatsapp.com/faq/general/28030012).

Our belief in the value of private communications is unshakeable, and we remain committed to giving you the fastest, simplest, and most reliable experience on WhatsApp. As always, we look forward to your feedback and thank you for using WhatsApp.

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Huawei launches its Flagship P9 co-engineered by Leica with dual cameras ,in India for Rs 39,999

Huawei today announced launch of its latest Flagship P9 with a tagline "change the way you see the world" as it comes with a dual camera at back one to work on vivid colors and another one sporting monochrome lenses. The phone is co-engineered by Leica camera AG. The two rear cameras of the Huawei P9 work in tandem to enable users to create images of superior detail, depth and color by capturing more light and stitching together both vivid colors and monochrome images. Huawei accompanied the launch of the P9 with the showcasing of 2 other international blockbuster products- the Matebook and the TalkBand B3, which will be debuting in India soon.

Boman Irani and Sushmita Sen at the launch event

The first Chinese company to realize the potential of Indian software talent by investing in India with its R&D center way back in 1999, Huawei has always believed that companies will need to examine the market more closely, identify customer needs and devise innovative products so they address unique challenges which meet price and performance targets.

The P9, targeted for the users of the growing premium end smartphone market will mark the re-entry of Huawei in this segment after a period of almost 3 years and would give an impetus to the India growth story for Huawei. Huawei realized the potential of India as a strategically important market and has big plans for India. An important step in the direction is the appointment of Mr. Peter Zhai, the new President of Huawei India Consumer Business Group.

With a decade of global management experience in the smartphone industry, Peter will be kick-starting the momentum with the distribution of the Huawei P9 in the country. Peter’s approach also includes bolstering the dual strategy of Huawei and Honor by tapping the market with offerings from both Huawei, which will cater to a premium market, while consistently focusing Honor as a masses device in both Huawei’s offline and online channels. To do so, Mr.Zhai also emphasizes a VIP service options that includes 1 year warrenty, 3 months accidental damage warranty (Only Screen), free postal repair service- pick up and drop. For for details of the privilege, please visit www.hihonor.com/in/support/

Specifications at a glance

The Huawei P9 is equipped with the power, connectivity and speed that today’s high-end smartphone user expects from Huawei. With a 5.2-inch 1080p display, the smartphone is powered by the new Kirin 955 2.5GHz 64-bit ARM-based processor coupled with 3GB of RAM for leading-class mobile performance. The 3,000 mAh high-density battery offers the Huawei P9 users outstanding mobility and battery life.

Leveraging Huawei’s industry-leading capabilities in telecommunications, the Huawei P9 offers unrivaled new features including a virtual-triple-antenna architecture, designed for users who need robust and seamless connectivity to cellular and Wi-Fi networks to fully harness the power of the mobile Internet no matter where they are in the world.

The Huawei P9 also protects users’ privacy and information security with Huawei’s world-leading biometric fingerprint recognition technology. The enhanced fingerprint sensor allows users to personalize and safeguard their devices by significantly lowering the possibility of fraudulent or accidental device access, while also ensuring users can quickly and securely access their smartphone.

Speaking at the launch, Peter Zhai, President,Huawei India, Consumer Business Group said “Huawei is known for many firsts. We introduced the first ever android smartphone of the world in India in 2011 and the launch of P9 is another feather in our cap. We are excited to give our valued customers the best smartphone photography experience by leveraging the unrivalled capabilities of Leica, the leader in the world of imaging for more than 100 years. We feel photography is a critical element in user experience in a smartphone and Huawei P9 users can now capture images with unmatched clarity, richness and authenticity, with a masterfully designed and powerful smartphone that looks, feels and performs exceptionally.”

Reinventing Smartphone Photography

Integrating the design values and engineering excellence of Huawei and Leica in a smartphone photography system co-engineered by the two companies, the Huawei P9 brings together the best-in-class hardware and software, from optical lenses, to sensors, to image processing algorithms, empowering users to capture the highest-quality images.

Huawei P9 rear view with dual camera on the top

Key to the Huawei P9’s superlative imaging capabilities is a dual-lens camera design that fully unleashes the power of Leica’s optical lenses, renowned for precision and attention to detail, and subject to the industry’s most stringent quality screening requirements. The RGB camera on the Huawei P9 specializes in capturing color, while the monochrome camera is outstanding at acquiring picture detail. The two rear cameras of the Huawei P9 works in tandem to enable users to create images of superior detail, depth and color. The Huawei P9 excels in low-light conditions, as the dual-camera design guarantees more light and detail capture. 

Each picture taken by the Huawei P9 carries the unique emotional resonance and timelessness that are the hallmarks of Leica, as users may choose between three film modes: Standard, Vivid Colors and Smooth Colors, depending on their personal preferences. With meticulous calibration of the Huawei P9’s camera parameters, each film mode faithfully renders the authentic color and style of Leica. By selecting the monochrome mode, the users can use their devices as a true monochrome camera to capture powerful and evocative black and white images of superior quality.

Deploying Huawei’s Hybrid Focus technology, the Huawei P9 captures images with superior speed, accuracy and stability. The Huawei P9 supports camera focusing based on three methodologies – laser, depth calculation and contrast – and automatically selects the one that yields the best result in any given environment. 

The wide-aperture photography feature on the Huawei P9 allows users to experiment with innovative visual effects to create unique images and content. The Huawei P9 makes it easy to adjust the camera aperture to create bokeh and other depth-of-field effects, while keeping the main object in sharp focus.

Taking Industrial Design to a Higher Level

The Huawei P9 has a state-of the-art industrial design, with the same minimalist design DNA as earlier products in Huawei’s acclaimed flagship P-series of premium smartphones. Each device is a perfect construct of superior-grade 2.5D glass and an aerospace-class aluminum, with diamond-cut edges rounded out by carefully balanced curvatures.

The Huawei P9 comes in a stunning and unique three colours setting new industry standards in industrial design, with the use of techniques including brushed hairlines and metal polishing at micron-level precision to create a translucent metal surface.

Pricing:

The Huawei P9  is slated to be available in the country beginning August 18^th at a price of Rs 39,999/-  

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ASUS unveils Zenfone 3 series in India, launches Zenfone 3 variants, ZenBook 3 and Transformer 3 Pro laptop

ASUS India today announced its latest Zenfone 3 series entry into Indian markets which makes India one of few countries where the Zenfone 3 series gadgets will be available, since the company showcased its latest range of products in Computex 2016, it was highly anticipated that it will enter Indian market very soon. The Zenfone 3 series brings a huge difference in the design language and body weight/dimensions as compared to earlier smartphones from the company.

ASUS Brand Ambassador Sonakshi Sinha with CEO Jerry Shen (Standing Right to Sonakshi) at the launch event

ASUS CEO Jerry Shen today announced the availability of the latest ZenFone 3 range of smartphones during the Zenvolution press event, making India one of the first countries to have access to the stunning new line-up of smartphones. The event in India saw the launch of ASUS ZenBook 3, an ultra-sleek and lightweight notebook with a premium aluminum design, and ASUS Transformer 3 Pro, the world’s most versatile PC.

During the event, ASUS brand ambassador Sonakshi Sinha walked the ramp as the showstopper for a fashion show, organized by ASUS in association with designer-duo Shivan & Narresh, to celebrate the technological progress signified by Zenvolution. Shivan & Narresh’s designs reflected the modern and slim look of the ZenFone 3 Series.

“The highly anticipated ZenFone 3 Series has become a global sensation after its debut at Computex this year. The range reflects the ASUS design philosophy and combines all the elements that users look for in a smartphone,” said Mr. Shen. “We are ecstatic to introduce the ZenFone 3 Series, which redefines luxury with superior performance and design, to consumers in India, one of our priority markets globally.”

Also present at the event was Mr. Sandeep Aurora, Director – Marketing and Market Development, Intel South Asia, said, “The almost 30-year old collaboration between ASUS and Intel has brought to market a range of innovative state-of-the-art PCs and devices. We are confident that the latest Asus devices including the new ZenBook 3 and Transformer 3 family powered by Intel Core processors will deliver amazing new computing experiences through enhanced performance, incredible portability, and efficiency in power consumption. We continue to look towards strengthening our relationship with ASUS to bring new, cutting-edge products to market.” 

 

The all-new ZenFone 3 family includes ZenFone 3, a feature-packed smartphone that brings premium design and empowering performance to users; ZenFone 3 Deluxe, the new flagship ASUS smartphone with advanced camera technology that takes mobile photography to the next level; ZenFone 3 Ultra, an incredibly powerful smartphone with a 6.8-inch Full HD display that excels at entertainment; and ZenFone 3 Laser with an ultra-fast 0.03-second laser auto-focus designed for keen photographers.

ASUS ZenBook 3 is the world’s most prestigious laptop, with an ultra-sleek and lightweight all-aluminum design that delivers unprecedented performance. ASUS Transformer 3 Pro, the world’s most versatile PC, delivers extreme performance and mobility, as well as unrivaled expandability with a selection of powerful accessories including ASUS Mobile Hub, ASUS Universal Dock, ASUS Audio Pod, the VR/4K-ready ROG XG Station 2 and ASUS Pen.

 

ASUS ZenFone 3 — Crystal Beauty.Built for Photography

Winner of a Computex 2016 d&i Award, ASUS ZenFone 3 is a feature-packed smartphone that brings premium design and empowering performance to everyone. Built around a gorgeous 5.5-inch Full HD (1920 by 1080) Super IPS+ display with up to 600cd/m2 brightness, ZenFone 3 delivers an incredible visual experience that makes apps, videos, and games look their best. With a narrow bezel, ZenFone 3 provides a 77.3% screen-to-body ratio for a maximized viewing area in a slim and compact body. The front and rear of the phone feature scratch-resistant 2.5D Corning® Gorilla® Glass that gently curves to make the edge of the phone completely smooth.

Featuring a next-generation PixelMaster 3.0 camera, ZenFone 3 ushers in a new era of smartphone photography. Equipped with the latest 16MP with the latest Sony® IMX298 sensor, six-element Largan lens with a large f/2.0 aperture, and subject-tracking TriTech auto-focus, ZenFone 3 is a photographer’s delight. Sapphire-glass lens protection ensures clarity and is resistant to scratches and damage. Offering both optical and electronic image stabilization for blur-free shots and video, a color-correction sensor for true-color photography, and true 4K UHD video recording, ZenFone 3 goes where no other smartphone in the category has ventured.

The exclusive TriTech auto-focus technology combines three focusing technologies — laser, phase detection and continuous contrast-detection auto-focus — to achieve clear focus in 0.03 seconds, up to 10x faster than the blink of an eye.

ZenFone 3 is the first smartphone worldwide to be powered by the new Snapdragon 625 — , the first 600 tier processor using 14nm finFET process technology  that makes it 35% more power efficient than 28nm processors. It also features an integrated X9 LTE modem, 802.11ac MU-MIMO Wi-Fi connectivity, PC-grade graphics and up to 4GB RAM that together deliver outstanding mobile performance with improved efficiency and battery life.

ZenFone 3 also has a built-in fingerprint sensor that's perfectly positioned on the rear of the phone to sit underneath the user's finger and unlocks the phone in just 0.2 seconds.

 

ASUS ZenFone 3 Deluxe — All Metal. Pure Beauty.

ASUS ZenFone 3 Deluxe is the flagship model of the ZenFone 3 family and is the ultimate expression of the ASUS ‘design thinking’ philosophy. Combining a strong and light aluminum-alloy unibody construction with an ultra-thin 4.2mm edge and exclusive PureMetal^TM technology, ZenFone 3 Deluxe is the world’s first all-metal smartphone with an invisible antenna design.

Featuring a 5.7-inch Full HD (1920 by 1080) Super AMOLED display with a color gamut that exceeds 100% of the NTSC color space, ZenFone 3 Deluxe reproduces vibrant and rich colors even in harsh, outdoor lighting.  An ultra-thin bezel gives ZenFone 3 Deluxe a 79% screen-to-body ratio that gives maximum display size with minimum bulk. . Inside, ZenFone 3 Deluxe has a powerful Qualcomm® Snapdragon™ 820 processor, Qualcomm® Adreno™ 530 GPU, integrated X12 LTE modem and 6GB RAM. to deliver the best performance and capacity for demanding apps, games, and media.

ZenFone 3 Deluxe offers an incredible 23MP camera featuring the world’s first smartphone implementation of the Sony IMX318 image sensor, a large f/2.0 aperture lens, and four-axis optical image stabilization for high-resolution, blur-free, and low-noise photos in almost any lighting condition. A three-axis electronic image stabilization system for steady 4K UHD videos further heightens the mobile photography experience. Other features include an ASUS TriTech auto-focus system that automatically selects second-generation laser, phase detection, or continuous contrast-detection auto-focus to provide accurate and nearly instant 0.03-second focusing and subject tracking, as well as exclusive PixelMaster 3.0 technology, making ZenFone 3 Deluxe a must-have tool for all smartphone photographers.

ZenFone 3 Deluxe has a built-in fingerprint sensor that's perfectly positioned on the rear of the phone to sit underneath the user's finger and unlocks the phone in just a fraction of a second. Qualcomm® Quick Charge™ 3.0 technology reduces battery recharge times and a reversible USB 3.0 Type-C port that makes connecting charging and accessory cables effortless.

ZenFone 3 Deluxe also excels at audio with its powerful five-magnet speaker and NXP smart amplifier that provides clear, defined sound and also protects the speakers from damage. When listening over certified headphones, users can enjoy Hi-Res Audio (HRA) that provides up four-times-better sound quality than CDs. A ZenEar which supports Hi-Res Audio is also bundled with ZenFone 3 Deluxe.

 

ASUS ZenFone 3 Ultra — Ultra Vision. Ultra Sound.

Winner of a Computex 2016 Best Choice Golden Award, ASUS ZenFone 3 Ultra is a smartphone designed for multimedia lovers, featuring a 6.8-inch Full HD (1920 by 1080) display with a 95% NTSC color gamut for rich, vibrant images, even outdoors in harsh lighting. It is the world’s first smartphone to have ASUS-exclusive Tru2Life+ Video technology, which harnesses a high-end 4K UHD TV-grade image processor to optimize every pixel in each frame before it is displayed, resulting in superior contrast and clarity. ZenFone 3 Ultra also excels at audio with its two new powerful five-magnet stereo speakers and a NXP smart amplifier that provides clear, defined sound and protects the speakers from damage. When listening over certified headphones, users can enjoy Hi-Res Audio (HRA) that provides up to four-times-better sound quality than CDs and the world’s first smartphone with virtual 7.1-channel surround sound with DTS Headphone:X.

Like ZenFone 3 Deluxe, ZenFone 3 Ultra has an incredibly slim and elegant full-metal unibody chassis — the world’s first to have no antenna lines. The ultra-slim bezel gives ZenFone 3 Ultra a 79% screen-to-body ratio, maximizing the viewing area while minimizing its overall size and weight. ZenFone 3 Ultra is equipped with the same high-resolution 23MP camera and ASUS TriTech auto-focus system as ZenFone 3 Deluxe. Powered by the Snapdragon 652 octa-core processor, integrated X8 LTE modem and 802.11ac MU-MIMO connectivity, Adreno 510 graphics, and up to 4GB of RAM, ZenFone 3 Ultra delivers outstanding mobile performance. A built-in fingerprint sensor is perfectly positioned on the front of the phone beneath the user's finger and unlocks the phone in just a fraction of a second.

ZenFone 3 Ultra also has a high-capacity 4600mAh battery for long-lasting performance and Quick Charge 3.0 technology for rapid recharge times. ZenFone 3 Ultra even works as a power bank with 1.5A output for quickly charging other mobile devices.

 

ASUS ZenFone 3 Laser: Ultra-fast 0.03-second laser auto-focus

ZenFone 3 Laser includes next-generation PixelMaster 3.0, which  lifts  its photography capabilities far above the smartphone norm. To capture real-world authenticity, PixelMaster 3.0 includes a 13MP sensor, large f/2.0-aperture lens and laser auto-focus for instant clarity in just 0.03 seconds. With electronic image stabilization (EIS) for blur-free video, and an automatic color-correction sensor for true-color photography, PixelMaster 3.0 represents a revolution in smartphone photography.

ZenFone 3 Laser features a sophisticated aluminum-alloy construction with design elements that add to its luxurious good looks and enhance its ergonomics. The finely sandblasted aluminum body with its comfortable rounded sides is enhanced with brilliant diamond-cut chamfered edges, and the contoured (2.5D) glass touchscreen is matched around the back by a gently curving rear cover that feels natural to hold.

A rear-mounted fingerprint sensor allows quick and convenient 0.3-second unlocking and authentication. It registers up to five separate fingerprints, and accurately detects fingerprints regardless of the orientation of the finger on the sensor.

ZenBook 3 — The World’s Most Prestigious Laptop with Unprecedented Performance

The next-generation ZenBook is completely redesigned with a gorgeous, ultra-sleek 11.9mm chassis that weighs a mere 910g. To achieve its amazing lightness without compromising strength, ZenBook 3 is crafted from aerospace-grade aluminum alloy, a premium material that is 50% stronger than the standard alloy used in laptops. As well as being strong and light, this material is also supremely elegant and features the signature ZenBook spun-metal finish. ZenBook 3 is available in three exclusive colors — Royal Blue, Rose Gold and Quartz Grey — and a special two-phase anodizing process is used to create stunning golden highlights on the diamond-cut edges.

ZenBook 3 delivers unprecedented performance powered by up to the  Intel^® Core™ i7 processor, 16GB of 2133MHz RAM, up to a 1TB PCIe^® Gen 3 x4 SSD, a next-gen USB Type-C port, and powerful quad-speaker audio by Harman Kardon. Its high-resolution 12.5-inch display has a wide 72% NTSC color gamut and an edge-to-edge covering of tough, scratch-resistant Corning Gorilla Glass 4. A slim bezel design provides an 82% screen-to-body ratio for the maximum display size with the minimum footprint. ZenBook 3 has an innovative cooling system featuring the world’s thinnest fan design at just 3mm. This efficient cooling enables ZenBook 3 to achieve incredible performance in an ultra-thin from factor.

ZenBook 3 features a full-size backlit keyboard with 19.8mm key pitch — the same as most desktop keyboards — and 0.8mm key travel to deliver comfortable typing experience. A glass-covered precision touchpad provides smooth and accurate input and incorporates palm-rejection technology, Smart Gestures, and handwriting support for enhanced usability. A built-in fingerprint reader with Windows Hello support gives users instant one-touch access, allowing them to sign in and unlock ZenBook 3 quickly and securely without having to type their password or PIN.

ZenBook 3 provides up to 9 hours of battery life for all-day computing. When it’s time to recharge, fast-charge technology brings the battery up to 60% capacity in just 49 minutes.

 

ASUS Transformer 3 Pro — The World’s Most Versatile PC

ASUS Transformer 3 Pro is a 2-in-1 PC that combines unrivaled performance with incredible portability to create the ultimate mobile device for work and play. Precision-crafted from aluminum, ASUS Transformer 3 Pro is only 8.35mm thin, yet has incredible structural strength and rigidity. ASUS Transformer 3 Pro has diamond-cut detailing that accentuates its elegant design, and it is available in gorgeous Icicle Gold and Glacier Gray color options.

ASUS Transformer 3 Pro has an integrated metal kickstand with a stepless hinge that lets users set the device at almost any viewing angle up to 170°. The included ASUS Transformer Cover Keyboard is a backlit keyboard that provides laptop-grade 1.4mm key travel for a comfortable typing experience and is available in four attractive colors — Stone, Charcoal, Taupe, and Amber — that perfectly complement the device. ASUS Transformer 3 Pro has a beautiful 12.6-inch display with a resolution of 2880 by 1920 and a 275ppi pixel density for pin-sharp, detailed images and a gamut of 121% sRGB color space for rich, vibrant colors. Dual front stereo speakers with audio by Harman Kardon provide spacious, defined sound for incredible listening experiences.

ASUS Transformer 3 Pro is powered by  the Intel^® Core^™ i7 processor and has up to a 1TB PCIe x4 SSD and 16GB of 2133MHz RAM for the ultimate performance. Its versatile, any-way-up USB Type-C connector supports USB 3.1 Gen 2 devices at speeds up to 10Gbps, and Thunderbolt™ 3 provides unbelievably fast 40Gbps data transfers and support for dual external 4K UHD displays. ASUS Transformer 3 Pro also comes with USB 3.0 and HDMI ports for convenient connectivity. A 13MP rear camera lets users capture high-resolution photos and videos, and a front-facing camera with Windows Hello facial recognition enables users to conveniently log in with just a quick glance.

ASUS Transformer 3 Pro is expandable with a range of accessories that extend its functionality and performance, giving users a new level of flexibility and convenience from a mobile device. ASUS Pen is a beautifully crafted writing and drawing utensil that offers 1024 pressure levels for completely natural note-taking and sketching experiences with a high degree of control. Users can also capture photos with the high-resolution camera and annotate them directly with ASUS Pen. ASUS Universal Dock is a hub that provides a full range of connectivity ports, including USB-C 3.1, USB 3.0, HDMI, VGA, RJ45 LAN, and a 3-in-1 SD card reader. ASUS Audio Pod is an entertainment accessory that includes four powerful speakers to deliver amazing 360° virtual 5.1-channel surround sound with rich, defined bass. ROG XG Station 2 is an external graphics card dock that gives ASUS Transformer 3 Pro desktop-grade graphics performance, turning it into a VR-ready, 4K UHD gaming powerhouse.

 

AVAILABILITY & PRICING

ZenFone 3 will be available from 17^th August 2016 at a starting price of INR 21,999 on all major e-commerce sites like Flipkart, Amazon, Snapdeal, Paytm, ShopClues, Tata CLiQ and in chain store – Sangeetha Mobiles. It will also be available at all leading retail stores across India before the end of August 2016.

ZenFone 3 Deluxe, ZenFone 3 Ultra and ZenFone 3 Laser will be available from September 2016 across all major e-commerce sites like Flipkart, Amazon, Snapdeal, Paytm, ShopClues, Tata CLiQ and leading retail stores & Asus Exclusive Stores across India at the following prices:

·         ZenFone 3 Deluxe - starting from INR 49,999

·         ZenFone 3 Ultra - INR 49,999

·         ZenFone 3 Laser - starting from INR 18,999

ZenBook 3 and Transformer 3 Pro will be available from October 2016 onwards across all major e-commerce sites like Flipkart, Amazon, Snapdeal and all Asus Exclusive Stores & leading retail stores across India at the following prices:

·         ZenBook 3 – INR 1,47,990

·         Transformer 3 Pro – INR 1,44,990

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Delta ID announces ActiveIRISIris: 1st Iris Software passed for Aadhaar Authentication Integrated Mobile Devices

Delta ID Inc., a leader in consumer-grade iris technology for mobile devices, announced today its ActiveIRIS software is amongst the first to pass the Performance Testing of integrated mobile devices used for Aadhaar authentication. The Performance Testing was held by STQC, in collaboration with C-DAC and Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), under the Ministry of Electronics & IT of the Government of India, during May 2016 in New Delhi. Delta ID’s ActiveIRIS software integrated in the Samsung Galaxy Tab Iris was also the first to be awarded provisional certification by STQC prior to the Performance Testing.

Delta ID

“We want to congratulate Delta ID on passing the Performance Test for its iris software for integrated mobile devices for Aadhaar. The Performance Testing required a pass rate of better than 99% when tested with 5000 residents,” said Mr. Umesh Kumar Nandwani, Director General of STQC, “With the availability of iris integrated mobile devices we hope to make the use of Aadhaar even more convenient and reliable for our residents.”

With Aadhaar enrollments crossing the 1 billion mark, the use of Aadhaar for resident authentication and eKYC is expected to rapidly spread across services for government and private enterprises. The need for a biometric modality that works reliably is critical for the use of Aadhaar, a key component of the government’s Janadhan Aadhaar Mobile (JAM) led initiatives. The iris is widely accepted as a more secure and reliable modality to identify and authenticate people. The iris works across a broader population, across all age groups and occupations.

“I believe we are at that the cusp of a major change in how biometrics, particularly, iris will play a role in enabling access to a variety of services we use in our daily lives,” said Dr. Salil Prabhakar, President and CEO of Delta ID Inc., “We thank STQC and UIDAI in planning and conducting the rigorous Performance Testing in the most competent way. This effort will serve both the government and residents of India by ensuring only the most reliable iris integrated mobile devices are used for Aadhaar authentication and eKYC applications.”

Delta ID has made remarkable advances in bringing iris technology to consumer mobile devices and applications. Delta ID’s ActiveIRIS® technology includes software for iris capture and segmentation for authentication with UIDAI servers. When combined with UIDAI standard compliant iris hardware components, ActiveIRIS software enables iris based Aadhaar authentication and eKYC that works reliably across the population in conditions and scenarios where users typically use their mobile devices.

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Micromax launches its first range of Canvas Smart LED TVs, price starts from Rs 19,999

Micromax finally launched its first Smart LED TV range in Indian market, the announcement comes just few days after LeEco has launched its range of Smart TVs though Micromax has kept the prices at lower side than the later.

Targeting consumers in the urban centers, who are willing to upgrade to an integrated smarter home entertainment experience; the company is looking at capturing a market share of 12% in the television segment by FY 17 with the new launch. The Smart TV range will be exclusively available on Flipkart in 32”, 40” and 50”, priced reasonably at Rs. 19,999, 29,999 and 42,999 respectively. Micromax will leverage its existing network of over 300 service centres for the new range.

Micromax Canvas Smart LED TV

The TV range will offer wireless smartphone control with an inbuilt Smart OS and preloaded Google Play Store. With built-in wifi, consumers can access the internet or run their favourite applications; the new televisions will offer consumers with a truly intuitive and interactive television experience.

With an aim to provide an impetus to the nascent Smart LED TV segment, which contributes up to 8% to the overall LED TV sales in the country, Micromax is set to create an ecosystem of connected devices by bringing alive the seamless experience across multiple screens. The Canvas Smart LED range comes with power packed smart features like Miracast, Mi Connect and Home-share, which gives the discerning consumers a SMART experience like never before.

Commenting on the launch, Mr. Rohan Agarwal, Vice President, Consumer Electronics, Micromax Informatics said, “The world of television is constantly changing, with more choices and more connected devices than ever before.  We have witnessed a growing trend among the consumers to look for seamless transition between multiple connected screens in their everyday lives. Hence, we are revolutionizing the home entertainment experience with launch of our first Micromax Canvas Smart LED Television range for the people to discover SHARPER and SMARTER cinematic and connected experience.”

He added “In April this year, we announced our vision to be a leading consumer electronics brand by diversifying our product portfolio and moving into non-mobility segments. Having pioneered the smartphone eco-system in the country, we are best placed to offer customer led innovations with our deep understanding of the Indian consumer. With this launch, we are looking at capturing a market share of 12% in FY 17 and a revenue of INR 1500 crore making us one of the clear leaders in the category.”

Micromax Canvas Smart LED TV Features

With the inbuilt Smart OS, the new television range not only provides seamless viewing experience but gives the consumers an intuitive and interactive television experience. With built-in wifi, consumers can access the internet, watch online videos and run applications. By using the M! Screen feature, users can multitask, customize, share data on a home network via DLNA by simply pairing their smartphone/tablet with the television.

Micromax Smartphone TVs can also be controlled wirelessly using Smartphones, Users can also cast their mobile screens to play Games and watch content on large screen for immersive experience. With the wireless smartphone control feature, the users can browse channels, media files or adjust the volume without having to get off their beds. The new range of television enables the users to enjoy the ease of using virtual mouse on their TV screen, with the handy track pad function. 

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