The Nothing Phone (3a)'s Essential Space, a feature for AI-powered content management, may soon require a subscription for some functionalities, with code suggesting a potential $120 charge. This move could spark mixed reactions, especially considering Nothing's focus on simplicity and the competitive landscape of smartphone software.
Top Indian banks are facing a margin squeeze as they are borrowing money at nearly 9% but lending it out at only 8.5%, raising concerns about the sustainability of the banking model. This situation is further exacerbated by the recent slowdown in loan growth, attributed to stricter lending norms imposed by the RBI.
India's central government has spent 80% of its budgeted capital expenditure for FY2025, raising concerns about meeting the full-year target due to the slow spending pace in recent months. However, the lower capital expenditure may be offset by undershooting on the disinvestment front and overshooting in revenue expenditure, while the fiscal deficit remains under control.
Veteran investor Shankar Sharma believes India's 1991 liberalization, while boosting growth, fostered dependency on foreign capital and technology, hindering the development of domestic tech giants. He criticizes the government's favorable treatment of foreign ventures like Elon Musk's Starlink, advocating for policies that prioritize domestic innovation and self-reliance.
Apple's iOS 18.2 update allows iPhone users globally to set WhatsApp as their default calling and messaging app, simplifying communication for those who primarily use the platform. This change eliminates the need to switch between apps and provides greater flexibility in choosing preferred communication methods.