ASUS has launched a new laptop in India, and this one is called the ExpertBook Ultra. The ExpertBook Ultra is designed for CXOs and business leaders in the country. What’s more is that this laptop comes with Copilot + PC integration for enhancing the productivity of the users. Along with this, the company has unveiled the ExpertBook P series new models as well. However, we will keep our focus on the ExpertBook Ultra which is the top of the line offering from the company right now for business users.

Read More – OPPO Find X9 Ultra and Find X9s Confirmed for India

The highlight of the ASUS ExpertBook Ultra is its ultra-light design, vivid display, elite cutting-edge AI-powered performance, enterprise-grade security, millitary grade durability, and more. This is an ultra-portable laptop, and very strong too to last long. The ExpertBook Ultra features the latest Intel Core Ultra Series 3 processor, an incredible GPU, and an advanced NPU.

Read More – Vivo Hikes Price of Multiple Devices in India

The laptop weighs just 0.99 Kg, which is under a KG. Users can now pre-order the ASUS ExpertBook Ultra on Flipkart at a starting price of Rs 2,39,990 (including taxes). With an Axis Bank card, users will get Rs 20,000 off on their purchase.

Why Dark Mode Is Not Always Better

Over the last few years, dark themes have gained widespread popularity across apps, operating systems, and browsers. They are often preferred for their clean look and reduced eye strain, particularly during long usage sessions. However, many users have started noticing a common problem. Most dark themes rely heavily on flat black or uniform grey tones. While this creates a minimal aesthetic, it also removes visual separation between elements.

In Chrome, this becomes especially noticeable in the tab bar when multiple tabs are open, active and inactive tabs tend to blend together, making it harder to quickly identify where you are for users handling research, work dashboards, or multiple workflows, this lack of clarity can slow things down.

QxA Dark Pro Tries a Different Approach

QxA Dark Pro introduces a layered dark design instead of a flat one. Rather than using a single shade, it applies multiple levels of charcoal grey across the browser interface this helps create a clear distinction between the frame, toolbar, active tab, and inactive tabs.

The active tab appears more prominent, while background tabs remain visible without becoming distracting. The goal is to improve navigation without changing how Chrome fundamentally works.

Built for Heavy Tab Users

The theme is designed with a specific type of user in mind people who keep many tabs open at once this includes researchers, developers, writers, and anyone who frequently switches between multiple pages. In such cases, even a small improvement in tab visibility can make a noticeable difference in usability.

Instead of focusing purely on aesthetics, QxA Dark Pro leans toward a productivity-first approach. It aims to reduce confusion and make tab tracking easier during extended browsing sessions.

No Pure Black, More Comfortable Contrast

Another notable design choice is the absence of pure black the theme uses layered charcoal tones to create a softer visual experience. This reduces harsh contrast and makes the interface more comfortable for long-term use. The result is a darker interface that feels balanced rather than overly aggressive.

The design also carries subtle inspiration from macOS-style UI elements, giving it a more refined and structured look.

A Growing Focus on Browser Experience

As browsers increasingly become the primary workspace for many users, small design improvements are gaining more importance from web-based tools to cloud platforms, much of today’s work happens inside Chrome this means that even minor usability issues, such as tab visibility, can have a cumulative impact over time.

Themes like QxA Dark Pro highlight how the focus is shifting from just appearance to functionality.

Simple Installation, Immediate Effect

Like other Chrome themes, QxA Dark Pro does not require any setup once installed, the theme is applied instantly across the browser users do not need to adjust settings or customise anything manually. The changes are visible immediately, especially in the tab bar and toolbar areas.

Dark mode is here to stay, but its current implementation is not perfect.

QxA Dark Pro attempts to refine the experience by solving a practical issue that many users face daily by improving tab contrast and introducing a layered design, it offers a more usable version of dark mode for Chrome.

For users who rely heavily on multitasking in their browser, this could be a small but meaningful upgrade.

Feb 2026: Vodafone Idea Gains 21,927 Wireless Subscribers, TRAI February 2026 Data

Overall wireless (Mobile) subscriber base

The telecom operator reported a total wireless (mobile) subscriber base of 198,484,795 (198.48 million) at the end of March 2026, registering net additions of 102,899 (around 0.10 million) during the month, compared with 21,927 additions in February 2026. Vi also reported 92,892,586 rural subscribers and 19.58 million M2M cellular mobile connections, translating into a 15.81 per cent market share at the end of March 2026.

M2M segment fuels growth

However, the overall subscriber growth was primarily driven by additions in the M2M or enterprise segment, which typically yield significantly lower average revenue per user (ARPU) than consumer mobility services. Vi’s M2M cellular connections rose from 19.32 million in February 2026 to 19.58 million in March 2026, reflecting an increase of 0.26 million connections. Under TRAI’s classification, total wireless (mobile) connections comprise both consumer SIMs and M2M SIMs.

Consumer mobility segment continues to decline

Based on this framework, and excluding M2M connections, Vi is estimated to have lost around 0.157 million (approximately 0.16 million) consumer SIM connections in March 2026 and approximately 0.49 million users in February 2026 in the same segment.

Regional losses across circles

Circle-wise data showed that the operator lost wireless (mobile) subscribers across several regions, with the most significant decline reported in Delhi. Other circles that witnessed subscriber losses included Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, Madhya Pradesh, North East, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh (West), and West Bengal.

Also Read: Bharti Airtel Adds Over 5 Million Wireless Subscribers in March 2026: TRAI Data

Competitive pressure remains

The figures indicate continued pressure on Vi’s core mobile subscriber base, even as its non-consumer segment contributes to the growth of wireless (mobile) connections. In comparison, Bharti Airtel added 1.59 million users (excluding M2M) in March, slightly behind Reliance Jio’s 1.74 million additions, highlighting sustained competitive intensity in the sector.

The latest TRAI subscriber data for March 2026 suggests that a clear shift may be underway in this high-value circle. Bharti Airtel added 7,37,827 subscribers in Delhi during the month, while Reliance Jio lost 31,393 subscribers, Vodafone Idea lost 2,30,959 subscribers, and BSNL/MTNL lost 1,526 subscribers. These are not just routine monthly changes together, they point to a deeper movement in user preference one that appears to be tilting in favour of Airtel.

Airtel’s Gains Reflect a Shift in User Trust

Airtel’s recent growth suggests that users are not just staying they are actively choosing the network. Over time, Airtel has built a positioning around reliability, consistency, and overall service quality. In a city like Delhi, where network usage is intensive and continuous, that positioning appears to be translating into real subscriber gains.

Users in the capital are increasingly sensitive to everyday network performance call drops during meetings, buffering while streaming, or inconsistent speeds during peak hours. These are not minor inconveniences; they directly affect daily routines. Airtel’s surge indicates that it is currently perceived as delivering a more dependable experience in such situations.

Jio’s Decline Points to Emerging Pressure

Jio’s loss of 31,393 subscribers in Delhi may not appear dramatic in isolation, but it becomes more meaningful when viewed against Airtel’s strong additions. In a market like Delhi, where competition is intense and switching barriers are low, even a modest decline can signal shifting user sentiment.

Jio’s growth story across India has been built on scale, affordability, and high data consumption that model has proven highly effective, particularly in expanding access and driving usage. However, metro markets such as Delhi operate under different conditions. High user density and heavy traffic place greater stress on networks, making consistency and performance more critical than ever.

The latest data suggests that Reliance Jio may be facing early signs of pressure in this environment this does not diminish its overall strength, but it does highlight a challenge ensuring that a scale-driven model continues to deliver consistent quality in the most demanding urban markets.

Vodafone Idea’s Losses Reinforce Market Reality

Vodafone Idea’s loss of over 2.30 lakh subscribers in Delhi while the operator’s broader challenges are well known, the scale of decline in a single month highlights how quickly users can move when expectations are not met.

In markets like Delhi, users tend to make decisions based on experience rather than long-term loyalty network perception plays a critical role, and once that perception weakens, subscriber erosion can accelerate. Vi’s losses reinforce the idea that the market is becoming increasingly unforgiving, leaving little room for operators that are unable to match evolving user expectations.

BSNL/MTNL Remain on the Margins

BSNL/MTNL recorded a decline of 1,526 subscribers in Delhi during the month while relatively small, it indicates that state-run networks continue to struggle to gain traction in a highly competitive urban market. In contrast to Airtel’s strong growth, the absence of gains from other operators further strengthens the narrative of a one-sided shift. Delhi, at least for now, appears to be moving decisively in one direction.

A Clear Shift Towards Experience-Led Choices

The most important takeaway from the March 2026 data is not just the movement of subscribers, but what that movement represents. Delhi users appear to be prioritising experience over price. This includes factors such as call reliability, stable data speeds, low latency, and fewer interruptions during peak usage. In a metro environment where digital dependence is high, these elements can significantly influence user satisfaction.

Airtel’s surge suggests that it is currently aligning more closely with these expectations. The operator’s focus on network investment and service consistency seems to be resonating with users who are increasingly evaluating networks based on real-world performance rather than headline tariffs.

Delhi May Be Signalling a Larger Shift

The TRAI data for March 2026 presents a clear contrast in Delhi. Bharti Airtel added 7,37,827 subscribers, while Jio lost 31,393, Vodafone Idea lost 2,30,959, and BSNL/MTNL lost 1,526. In a market where competition is intense and user expectations are high, such divergence is difficult to ignore.

More importantly, the data suggests a shift in how users are making choices. Price alone may no longer be the primary driver in metro markets. Instead, network experience how well a service performs in everyday conditions is emerging as a key differentiator. If the trend continues, Delhi may not just reflect the telecom battle in India it could shape the next phase of competition, where experience, not just pricing, defines the winner.

OnePlus Nord CE 6 is set to launch in India on May 7, 2026. Along with this, there will be OnePlus Nord CE 6 Lite 5G. The Nord CE 6 will be available in three colours – Lunar Pearl, Fresh Blue, and Pitch Black. The Nord CE 6 will feature a 50MP main camera with dual-axis OIS support and will also come with a 32MP sensor at the front for selfies and video calling.

Read More – OPPO Find X9 Ultra and Find X9s Confirmed for India

It will run on Android 16 based OxygenOS 16 out of the box. The phone will bring enhanced camera modes including motion photos with 4K support along with suite of AI-powered editing tools such as AI Portrait Glow, AI Perfect Shot, AI Eraser, AI Unblur, AI Reflection Eraser, AI Detail Boost, and AI Reframe.

There will be Google Gemini powered AI features such as Circle to Search and Gemini Live. This will make the interactions more intiuitive and efficient for the users. The phone will also feature dual-stereo speakers with up to 300% ultra volume support. The Nord CE 6 will feature Qualcomm Snapdragon 7s Gen 4 SoC and will feature a dedicated Touch Reflex Chip which will bring support for 3200Hz touch sampling rate for an enhanced gaming experience.

Read More – Vivo Hikes Price of Multiple Devices in India

The device will pack an 8000mAh battery with support for 80W SUPERVOOC fast-charging and 27W reverse charging. The display will support 144Hz refresh rate and 1.5K resolution. The device will also feature the following IP ratings – IP66, IP68, IP69, and IP69K.

Nationwide Tribute to 150 Years of Vande Mataram

The year 2025 marks 150 years of Vande Mataram, written by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, a work widely regarded as a defining symbol of India’s freedom movement and cultural identity. The commemoration is being observed on a national scale with participation from States, Union Territories, central ministries, Indian missions abroad, and citizens worldwide. The song’s portrayal of the motherland as the Divine Feminine continues to resonate as a powerful expression of national pride and unity, according to a statement from the Ministry of Culture dated April 22, 2026.

Categories for Participation

Under the “VM Frames” initiative, filmmakers, content creators, and citizens are invited to reimagine the ethos of Vande Mataram through contemporary formats. The competition features three categories—Reels, AI-based films, and short films—with entries encouraged to reflect themes of patriotism, cultural identity, national unity, and the vision of a progressive New India.

Awards and Prize Structure

The competition offers awards totalling up to Rs 50 lakh across categories. In the Reels category, prizes include Rs 1.5 lakh for first place, Rs 1 lakh for second, and Rs 50,000 for third. The AI-based films category carries awards of Rs 5 lakh, Rs 3 lakh, and Rs 1.5 lakh for the top three positions respectively. In the short films category, winners will receive Rs 15 lakh, Rs 12 lakh, and Rs 10 lakh respectively.

Submission Timeline and Details

Submissions for the competition will remain open until 7 May 2026. Detailed information is available on the official website vande mataram150.in.

Ministry Calls for Youth Participation in Cultural Expression

The Ministry of Culture has extended an open invitation, particularly to young creators, to participate in what it describes as a national tribute and contribute to a collective cultural expression that bridges India’s historical legacy with its contemporary creative voice.

“As India celebrates 150 years of Vande Mataram, this initiative aims to rekindle pride in the nation’s shared heritage and inspire a renewed connection with the ideals that shaped its freedom and continue to define its future,” the Ministry said.

Vivo, a major smartphone maker will soon bring the Vivo X300 Ultra 5G and Vivo X300 FE 5G to India. This will join the existing lineup of Vivo X300 Pro and Vivo X300 5G in the country. The Vivo X300 Ultra 5G was first showcased at the Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2026. The phone was also recently launched for the China market. The company has now confirmed the launch date of these devices in India. Let’s take a look at them.

Read More – OPPO Find X9 Ultra and Find X9s Confirmed for India

Vivo X300 Ultra 5G, Vivo X300 FE 5G India Launch Date

Vivo X300 Ultra 5G and Vivo X300 FE 5G are confirmed to launch in India on May 6, 2026, at 12 PM IST. The company confirmed this via a social media post on X (formerly Twitter). The Vivo X300 FE 5G will be available in multiple colours including Lilac Purple, Urban Olive, and Noir Black.

Read More – Vivo Hikes Price of Multiple Devices in India

The device’s microsite is now live for India, and it will be powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 SoC coupled with LPDDR5x RAM and UFS 4.1 internal storage. The device will pack a 6500mAh battery with support for 90W wired and 40W wireless charging. Both phones will be geared for performance and camera enthusiasts as the X series always is. More details will come as the launch nears.

Strengthening India’s Role in Global Telecom Standardization

“The revised guidelines for the Technology Development and Investment Promotion (TDIP) Scheme of the Department of Telecommunications, are aimed at strengthening India’s participation in global telecom standardization and accelerating the development of indigenous telecom technologies,” according to an official statement from the Ministry of Communications dated April 22, 2026.

“The revised TDIP Scheme, with a total outlay of Rs 203 crore for the period 2026–31, has been designed as a comprehensive support framework to enable Indian entities to actively contribute to global standards, promote innovation, and enhance India’s competitiveness in next-generation telecommunications technologies, including 5G Advanced and 6G,” the Ministry said.

Financial Support for Global Participation and Leadership

The scheme seeks to enhance India’s representation and influence in leading international telecom standardization bodies such as the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), 3GPP and oneM2M.

It provides financial support to Indian stakeholders for participation in global meetings, submission of technical contributions, leadership roles in study groups, and hosting of international standardization events in India.

The initiative also aims to strengthen India’s influence in shaping global telecom standards and facilitate the integration of domestic technologies into internationally accepted frameworks.

The scheme aims to strengthen India’s position from a technology participant to a global standard-setter, while driving creation of intellectual property, enhancing export potential and improving competitiveness of domestic telecom products and solutions.

Expanded Scope to Include Startups, MSMEs, and Academia

The revised guidelines significantly expand the scheme’s scope to include startups, MSMEs, academia, research institutions, telecom service providers and industry players, with the aim of fostering deeper ecosystem participation and collaborative innovation. The scheme will also support pilot projects, proof-of-concept initiatives, and technology demonstrations to enable a faster transition from research to commercial deployment.

Institutional Framework for Effective Implementation

Implementation will be carried out through agencies such as the Telecommunications Standards Development Society India, Telecom Centres of Excellence India and Telecommunications Consultants India Limited, which will facilitate coordination, capacity building, effective utilization of resources, and industry engagement.

Boosting Indigenous Innovation and Global Competitiveness

According to the Communications Ministry, this scheme complements other initiatives of the Department of Telecommunications, including the Telecom Technology Development Fund (TTDF) and the Bharat 6G Mission, in creating a comprehensive framework for next-generation telecom research, development and deployment.

The government said, “The release of the revised TDIP Scheme guidelines marks a significant step towards strengthening India’s presence in global telecom standardization processes and accelerating the development of indigenous next-generation technologies. The scheme is expected to play a pivotal role in positioning India as a global leader in 6G and future communication systems.”

Vodafone Idea Limited (VIL) and Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL), the two struggling telecom operators in India, added new wireless subscribers in the March 2026. The data was shared by the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) on its monthly performance indicator report. While Jio and Airtel also added subscribers, it is a normal scenario for the industry. Jio and Airtel always add subscribers, but the interesting thing which happened was that BSNL and Vodafone Idea have now also added new customers.

Read More – Telcos Hike Tariffs, but a Bigger Round Feels Around the Corner

Vodafone Idea, BSNL Add Wireless Subscribers in March 2026 as per TRAI Data

According to TRAI data, Vodafone Idea added 102,899 new wireless subscribers, and BSNL added 17,095 new wierless users during March 2026. At the same time, Bharti Airtel and Reliance Jio added 5,094,968 and 3,227,542 new users. So while the maximum users went to the top two players, it is still worth noting that Vodafone Idea adding new users suggests that the company’s investments are bringing in some positive results in performance.

Read More – Bharti Airtel Adds Over 5 Million Wireless Subscribers in March 2026: TRAI Data

The industry added a total of 8,433,403 new users, which is great for the telecom players and their investments. With an expected tariff hike in the near future, the telecom players will also improve their margins.

Telecom operators like Bharti Airtel and Reliance Jio have engaged in a small round of tariff hikes in a very silent manner. This keeps happening every few weeks and months. The telcos tweak the plans to improve margins on services. This is the nature of the business. Much recently, Airtel hiked the the tariffs for the users by removing the Rs 799 and the Rs 859 plans, and now instead offers the Rs 899 plan in place of Rs 859 option. This marks a silent hike, and while it is not a big one, it is substantial for the users to note.

Read More – BSNL has a New Strategy to Boost SIM Sales

Reliance Jio made a change to the validity benefit of its Rs 195 data voucher. The telco’s Rs 195 data voucher now has a standalone validity of 30 days instead of the earlier 90 days. While there’s data and OTT (over-the-top) benefits bundled, it still shows a substantial hike in the cost of using this plan.

BSNL (Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited) is also known to keep hiking tariffs for users silently and indirectly. The state-run telecom operator doesn’t directly increase the prices of its plans. Instead, BSNL reduces the service validity offered with the plan in a silent manner. All these are small hikes and account for marginal improvement in revenues and margins for the businesses.

Read More – Airtel Rs 929 Plan is Better Option than Rs 899 Plan

But now, we expect the telcos to go bigger in the near future. It has almost been two years since the telcos increased the prices of the plans. Given the trend of the hikes for the last few times, the telcos have increased the prices every two years. So we, along with the other industry experts, believe that the next round of hikes is very close. The hikes need to come for Jio to also improve IPO (initial public offering) prospects.

FWA Subscribers — 5G and UBR Breakdown

Total wireless 5G FWA subscribers increased from 11.93 million at the end of February 2026 to 12.32 million at the end of March 2026, with 6.17 million (50.37 percent) in urban areas and 6.15 million (49.63 percent) in rural areas.

As of March 2026, Bharti Airtel reported a 5G FWA subscriber base of 3,737,658 (an addition of 148,514), while Reliance Jio reported 8,584,110 (an addition of 241,675) 5G FWA users, bringing the total to 12,321,768.

Reliance Jio Infocomm Limited, the only operator reporting UBR FWA subscribers, increased its UBR FWA base from 4,086,086 at the end of February to 4,285,595 at the end of March, adding 199,509 users.

“UBR FWA subscription stood at 4.29 million at the end of March 2026 with subscriptions in urban and rural areas of 3.05 million and 1.23 million respectively. The shares of urban and rural wireless (UBR FWA) subscribers in total wireless (UBR FWA) subscribers were 71.23 percent and 28.77 percent respectively, at the end of March 2026,” the TRAI report released on April 22, 2026, said.

Gain and Loss of Wireless Subscribers

Bharti Airtel added 5,094,968 wireless (mobile) subscribers, and Reliance Jio added 3,227,542 subscribers during the month. Meanwhile, Vodafone Idea added 102,899 wireless (mobile) subscribers. BSNL added 17,095 subscribers, while MTNL lost 9065 subscribers during March 2026.

All Licensed Service Areas (LSAs) showed growth in wireless (mobile) subscribers during March 2026.

Wireless Market Share of Operators

As of the end of March, 2026, private access service providers held 92.64 percent of the wireless (mobile) market, while BSNL and MTNL accounted for 7.36 percent.

This translates to Reliance Jio holding a 39.21 percent market share with 496.34 million wireless subscribers; Bharti Airtel with a 37.74 percent market share and 477.74 million wireless subscribers; Vodafone Idea with a 15.68 percent market share and 198.48 million wireless subscribers; BSNL with a 7.34 percent market share and 92.94 million wireless subscribers; and MTNL with a 0.02 percent market share and 214,967 wireless subscribers.

Wireless (Fixed wireless and Mobile) Access Broadband Subscribers

As of the end of March, 2026, Reliance Jio reported 509.21 million wireless broadband subscribers—the highest number—followed by Bharti Airtel with 358.13 million, Vodafone Idea with 128.91 million, and BSNL with 22.86 million subscribers.

Wireline Telephone Subscriber Base

Wireline subscribers increased from 47.99 million at the end of February 2026 to 48.25 million at the end of March 2026. The net increase in the wireline subscriber base was 0.25 million with a monthly growth rate of 0.53 percent.

In the wireline segment:

• Reliance Jio held a 31.58 percent market share with 15,237,438 subscribers, adding 188,698 subscribers during the month.
• Bharti Airtel accounted for a 23.67 percent share with around 11,419,588 subscribers, adding 23,370 subscribers during the month.
• Vodafone Idea held a market share of around 1.77 percent with about 853,441 subscribers, adding 11,954 subscribers during the month.
• Meanwhile, BSNL held a 15.46 percent market share with around 7.46 million (7,461,302) subscribers, adding 47,881 subscribers during the month.

M2M Cellular Connections

The number of M2M (Machine-to-Machine) cellular mobile connections increased from 118.47 million at the end of February 2026 to 123.88 million at the end of March 2026.

Bharti Airtel led with 76.99 million M2M connections (62.15 percent market share), followed by Reliance Jio with 23.23 million (18.76 percent), Vodafone Idea with 19.58 million (15.81 percent), and BSNL with 4.06 million (3.28 percent).

Active Wireless Subscribers

Out of the total 1,265.73 million wireless (mobile) subscribers, 1,185.60 million were active on the date of peak VLR in March 2026. The proportion of active wireless (mobile) subscribers was approximately 93.67 percent of the total wireless (mobile) subscriber base.

Bharti Airtel reported a peak VLR of 99.24 percent during the month, BSNL 56.36 percent, Vodafone Idea 85.30 percent, MTNL 141.50 percent, and Reliance Jio 98.62 percent.

Also in TRAI Subscriber Series:

Feb 2026: Vodafone Idea Gains 21,927 Wireless Subscribers, TRAI February 2026 Data

Jan 2026: Vodafone Idea Starts 2026 with Subscriber Loss: TRAI January 2026 Data

Dec 2025: Airtel Crosses 463 Million Wireless Subscribers; Gap With Jio Shrinks: TRAI December 2025 Data

Nov 2025: Airtel, BSNL, and Jio Gain Wireless Users in November 2025; Vodafone Idea Loses Over 1 Million Subscribers

Leverage Jio’s digital reach and Allianz’s insurance expertise

The proposed joint venture aims to leverage JFSL’s extensive digital ecosystem and deep understanding of the Indian market alongside Allianz’s global expertise in insurance products and services. Both partners said the collaboration seeks to deliver innovative, affordable and accessible protection solutions tailored to the specific needs of individuals and businesses in India. The companies are also working towards a separate binding agreement for the life insurance business in the country.

India’s strong economic progress and favourable demographics

The announcement comes against the backdrop of India’s expanding economy, favourable demographics and increasing need for financial protection. “India’s strong economic progress and favourable demographics underscore the growing need for long-term financial security and inclusive protection solutions. With a young population and a rising middle class, expanding insurance coverage is essential to strengthening the country’s long-term resilience by protecting its citizens and their assets. To meet these needs, the joint venture will aim to create a fundamentally differentiated way of designing, distributing, and delivering insurance solutions at scale in India,” the joint statement said.

JFSL said that enabling access to world-class insurance is central to its mission of empowering every Indian with simple, secure, seamless, and smart financial solutions – delivered digitally, at scale, and built around the needs of people at every income level.

Insurance for All by 2047 Vision

Mukesh D. Ambani said: “Our Founder, Shri Dhirubhai Ambani, built Reliance on one abiding belief – that the power of the best must be made available to every Indian, not just the privileged few. Jio Financial Services is proud to carry that belief into financial services.

Insurance is not just a product, but it is the foundation upon which families build their futures with confidence and are able to pursue their ambitions without fear. ‘Insurance for All by 2047‘ is a national mission and every institution that has been entrusted with the scale and trust of the Indian people has a duty to fulfil it. Jio Financial Services is committed to doing exactly that.

I am proud to partner with Allianz, one of the world’s most respected insurance groups, across the insurance value chain as our exclusive insurance partner. I believe that the combination of Jio‘s unmatched digital consumer reach and Allianz’s deep global insurance expertise is uniquely powerful.

Together, we will deliver world-class insurance solutions to every corner of India — simple to understand, easily accessible through our wide-spread channels, affordable, and powered by technology that works for every Indian. This is our commitment to every Indian, and our contribution to the Viksit Bharat vision.”

Build a completely new insurance model for India

Oliver Bate, Chief Executive Officer, Allianz SE, said: “Allianz Group is the most valuable and trusted insurance brand worldwide, a distinction earned over 136 years of supporting the protection needs and growth ambitions of our customers, who come to us from all walks of life. As part of our purpose, we keep promises that transcend borders and span generations.

By combining our expertise, high-quality products, and exceptional service with the unrivalled reach and capabilities of Jio Financial Services, our exclusive partner across the insurance value chain in India, we will create a more resilient and financially secure future for India, and will help to make the ‘Insurance for All by 2047’ vision a reality.

Our two companies share a profound conviction in the importance of inclusive economic growth and the powerful role that insurance plays in creating shared, sustainable prosperity for more people. Together, we will make protection simpler, more accessible, and more relevant for individuals, families, entrepreneurs and businesses across the country, and we will build a completely new insurance model for India: one designed around customers and their needs.”

The official release highlighted that “Allianz has been deeply invested in India’s insurance market since 2000 and will continue to support the growing need for long-term financial security by expanding access to risk protection and enhancing financial preparedness. In doing so, Allianz helps reinforce confidence and economic security for individuals, businesses, and communities across India.”

OPPO has launched arguably its best smartphone ever, named OPPO Find X9 Ultra 5G. This is a top of the line phone and one of the best options for smartphone enthusiasts in the global market right now. This phone joins the Find X9 series which already includes Find X9 and Find X9 Pro. Note that the Find X9 Ultra has not yet come to  India, it has only launched in China right now. Let’s quickly go over the specifications and price of the phone.

Read More – Vivo Hikes Price of Multiple Devices in India

OPPO Find X9 Ultra 5G Price

OPPO Find X9 Ultra 5G will begin at:

• 12GB + 256GB = CNY 7499
• 12GB + 512GB = CNY 7999
• 16GB + 512GB = CNY 8499
• 16GB + 1TB = CNY 9299

It will be available in the following colour options – Polar Glaciers, Rongsha Canyon, and Tundra. The device will go on sale in China starting April 24, 2026. The phone will be launched in May in India. For the Indian pricing, we will have to wait for the launch.

Read More – Redmi A7, Redmi A7 Pro Launched in India: Price and Specifications

OPPO Find X9 Ultra 5G Specifications

OPPO Find X9 Ultra 5G has a 6.82-inch QHD+ flexible AMOLED screen with 120Hz refresh rate, up to 1800nits of peak brightness and 10-bit colour depth. The phone is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 SoC coupled with up to 16GB of LPDDR5x RAM and up to 1TB of UFS 4.1 internal storage.

For the quad-camera setup at the rear, there’s a 200MP primary sensor with OIS, a 50MP ultra-wide-angle sensor, a 200MP telephoto sensor, and a 50MP ultra-telephoto sensor offering up to 10x optical zoom and 120x digital zoom. There’s also a dedicated colour reproduction lens. For selfies and video calling, there’s a 50MP sensor at the front. There’s a 7050mAh battery in the phone with support for 100W wired-fast charging and 50MP wireless charging.

While mobile networks are seeing faster improvements, driven by ongoing upgrades and wider deployments, the broadband segment remains more stable, with a few providers consistently delivering stronger performance. Based on a large dataset collected through its V-Speed platform, SpeedGeo’s findings once again place Reliance Jio at the top of mobile internet rankings, while ACT Fibernet continues to lead in the fixed broadband category.

The report is based on 545,000 tests conducted on fixed networks, including connections delivered through WiFi routers and fixed wireless setups, along with around 61,000 tests carried out on mobile networks across 3G, 4G, and 5G technologies. These tests were performed using SpeedGeo’s V-Speed platform, available through both web browsers and Android applications.

ACT Fibernet Leads Broadband Performance

In the fixed broadband segment, ACT Fibernet once again recorded the highest average download speed at 118.1 Mbps, maintaining a clear lead over other providers. The company also delivered the fastest upload speeds at 109.8 Mbps and recorded the lowest latency among leading operators, making it the most consistent performer across all key parameters measured in the report. The gap between ACT Fibernet and other providers remains significant, with its speeds nearly double those of the next operators in the ranking.

Table 1. Broadband quality of leading operators in India in 2025/1Q 2026.

Test distribution and quarterly results of the three fastest providers.

BSNL followed with an average download speed of 65.7 Mbps, while Bharti Airtel recorded 62.7 Mbps. The report notes that the average broadband speed across India stood at 68.5 Mbps during the period under review, reflecting a slight increase compared to the previous reporting period. Upload speeds averaged 56.3 Mbps, while latency across broadband networks was recorded at approximately 40 milliseconds.

Jio Continues to Lead Mobile Internet Speeds

In the mobile internet category, Reliance Jio maintained its leadership position with an average download speed of 115.3 Mbps, continuing the trend observed in earlier reports.

Bharti Airtel followed with an average download speed of 84.3 Mbps, while Vodafone Idea recorded 29.2 Mbps.

The report also highlights differences in upload performance, with Airtel offering the highest upload speeds in the mobile segment at 13.6 Mbps. Reliance Jio recorded upload speeds of 10.8 Mbps, while Vodafone Idea reported 8.5 Mbps.

Table 2: Mobile internet quality in India in 2025/1Q 2026.

Overall, the average mobile internet speed in India reached 89.4 Mbps, representing an increase of 4 percent compared to the previous reporting period.

5G Speeds and Network Latency

The report provides additional insights into 5G network performance, where Reliance Jio again recorded the highest speeds at 195.6 Mbps. Bharti Airtel followed with 169.4 Mbps in the 5G category. These figures reflect the performance observed during the testing period across available 5G network coverage areas.

Latency across mobile networks in India averaged 69 milliseconds during the same period, while broadband latency was recorded at around 40 milliseconds.

Based on Extensive User Testing

SpeedGeo’s findings are based on real user tests conducted across a wide range of devices and network environments using its V-Speed platform. The dataset includes both fixed broadband connections and mobile networks, ensuring a broad representation of user experience across the country.

Consistent Trends Across Segments

The Q1 2026 report confirms the continuation of trends observed in previous periods, with ACT Fibernet maintaining its lead in the broadband segment and Reliance Jio continuing to dominate mobile internet speeds. The data reflects how performance levels differ across segments, with broadband speeds showing marginal changes compared to the previous period, while mobile internet speeds have seen a more noticeable increase.

With testing conducted over a full 12-month period, the report provides a comprehensive view of network performance across India, capturing both improvements and differences between operators based on real-world usage conditions.

Industry-first banking solution for feature phones

The application will be available to both existing Bank of Baroda customers and users of other banks through a streamlined self-onboarding process.

“Unlike conventional mobile banking apps that only work on smartphones, the bob World Lite app has been built to provide a comprehensive suite of everyday banking services on affordable feature phones, thereby expanding its reach across semi-urban and rural India. It features a lightweight, low bandwidth architecture with keypad navigation and secure access, making digital banking simple, seamless, and accessible,” the official release said.

Pre-installed on JioPhone Prima 4G devices

The bob World Lite mobile app currently offers functionalities such as UPI-enabled scan and pay, fund transfers, bill payments, mobile recharges, and profile management, with additional features expected in future updates. Under the partnership, the application will come pre-installed on JioPhone Prima 4G devices and will also be available for download via JioStore for existing users.

Expanding digital banking beyond smartphones

Commenting on the development, Debadatta Chand, Managing Director and CEO of Bank of Baroda, said the initiative represents a significant step toward broadening digital banking access. “Driving digital inclusion remains a core priority for us at Bank of Baroda. Presently, bob World mobile banking caters to retail customers and bob World business serves merchants, SME and corporate customers. Our partnership with Jio to launch bob World Lite is a significant step towards extending digital banking beyond the smartphone ecosystem. With a large and growing base of feature phone users in India, this initiative enables simple, secure, and anytime banking while helping bridge the digital divide. This initiative also opens up opportunities for us to onboard and engage with a wider customer base, reinforcing our commitment to inclusive and sustainable growth,” Chand said.

Sunil Dutt, President of Reliance Jio Infocomm Limited, highlighted the company’s commitment to digital democratization. “At Jio, we have always focused on expanding the reach of digital services to every Indian, at scale and with affordability at the core. JioPhone has been central to realising that vision, putting affordable devices and digital services in the hands of millions of users across India, while serving as a powerful tool for digital democratization and inclusion. Today, our partnership with Bank of Baroda marks the next step in that journey, enabling seamless digital banking access at scale for millions of users. We are bringing full-featured banking to JioPhone users across the country seamlessly, securely, and in a way that is built around their needs,” Dutt said.

A push toward financial inclusion at scale

“Leveraging Jio’s digital reach and presence across the country and Bank of Baroda’s strong nationwide footprint, diverse customer base and commitment to inclusive, accessible, and affordable banking, the initiative is expected to significantly expand the reach of digital banking services across India,” the companies added.

Bank of Baroda serves a global customer base of over 180 million through approximately 65,000 touchpoints across 15 countries spanning five continents.

Motorola has finally launched the Edge 70 Pro in India. The Motorola Edge series is one of the most popular smartphone series in the country in the mid-range to semi-premium segment. The device is powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 8000 series chip. There’s a decent sized battery with a triple-camera setup at the rear with a vapour cooling chamber for enhancing performance. Let’s take a look at the price and specifications.

Read More – OPPO Find X9 Ultra and Find X9s Confirmed for India

Moto Edge 70 Pro Price in India

Moto Edge 70 Pro will come in multiple price variants in India:

• 8GB + 256GB = Rs 38,999
• 12GB + 256GB = Rs 41,999

There’s an instant bank discount of Rs 2,000 with Axis Bank and HDFC Bank cards. The device will go on sale in India on April 29, 2026. It will be available in multiple colour options – Pantone Lilly White, Pantone Tea, and Pantone Titan.

Read More – Vivo Hikes Price of Multiple Devices in India

Moto Edge 70 Pro Specifications in India

Moto Edge 70 Pro comes with the following specifications:

• 6.8-inch Super HD Extreme AMOLED 10-bit display with 144Hz refresh rate
• 5200nits of peak brightness and 360Hz touch sampling rate
• IP68 + IP69 ratings for dust and water resistance
• 6500mAh battery
• MediaTek Dimensity 8000 series chip

Also Read: Telecom Spectrum Not an Asset That Can Be Restructured Under IBC: Supreme Court

Key Legal Concerns Raised in Review Petition

In its review petition filed on March 30, SBI has contended that the verdict contains apparent errors and does not adequately address key legal questions previously placed before the court. According to the petition, the judgment failed to consider critical aspects such as the treatment of spectrum usage rights and the classification of statutory dues under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC).

“The Impugned Judgment suffers from patent errors on the face of the record which go to the root of the issue,” the petition reportedly said.

SBI, however, contended that the court’s narrow focus on whether telecom companies invoked insolvency to avoid licence dues resulted in incomplete adjudication. The lender has further maintained that the ruling did not determine whether banks possess a valid security interest over spectrum usage rights or whether such rights can be monetised during insolvency resolution.

“The impugned judgment has not rendered findings on several material questions, which have a direct bearing on the status of lenders and treatment of government dues,” the petition said.

Aircel Insolvency and Rs 13,000 Crore Debt Dispute

The dispute originates from the 2018 insolvency proceedings of Aircel and its group companies, which defaulted on loans exceeding Rs 13,000 crore owed to a consortium led by SBI. During the resolution process, lenders sought recognition of spectrum usage rights as monetisable assets, while the Department of Telecommunications maintained that outstanding government dues must be settled prior to any transfer of such rights.

Supreme Court’s Stand on Spectrum Ownership and IBC

In its February ruling, the Supreme Court had affirmed the government’s position that spectrum, being a sovereign and public resource, cannot be treated as a tradable asset for debt restructuring under the IBC framework.

The February 13 judgment concluded that telecom service providers (TSPs) did not own spectrum. Accordingly, a Bench of Justices held that the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC) excludes any assets over which a corporate debtor has no ownership rights. The court stated that spectrum is a scarce natural resource owned by the people of India, with legal title vesting exclusively in the Union of India, which holds it in trust for the public.

“Mere recognition of spectrum licensing rights as an intangible asset by TSPs in the financial statements is not conclusive of their ownership, as it only represents control over future economic benefits… Licensees acquire no proprietary interest in spectrum,” Justice Narasimha, who authored the judgment, had observed.

The court had held that the mere grant of spectrum under a licence did not mean a complete transfer of a finite natural resource from the Union government to a TSP. “It confers only a limited, conditional and revocable privilege to use spectrum, subject to statutory requirements, licence conditions and overriding public interest,” Justice Narasimha had clarified.

Also Read: SBI-led Banks to Reassess Fresh Lending to Vodafone Idea Post AGR Relief

SBI Warns of Impact on Banking and Credit Markets

However, SBI has warned that the judgment could significantly alter credit risk assessment in regulated sectors. It argued that if left unreviewed, the decision may compel financial institutions to overhaul lending practices, particularly in sectors such as telecom, mining, power, and infrastructure, where operations depend heavily on government-conferred rights.

“The Impugned Judgment is likely to compel banks and financial institutions to undertake a fundamental overhaul of their credit appraisal and risk evaluation frameworks. Banks and financial institutions may grow increasingly reluctant to finance such commercial ventures,” SBI said in the petition, according to the reports.

SBI has reportedly urged the apex court to revisit its findings, stating that the verdict, if left unreviewed, could have “cascading implications” on insolvency cases and the investment climate.

Also Read: Government Invests Rs 39,272 Crore Since 2015 to Transform Fisheries and Aquaculture Sector

Shrimp Continues to Dominate Export Basket

Frozen shrimp remained the primary growth driver, contributing Rs 47,973.13 crore (USD 5.51 billion) and accounting for more than two-thirds of total export earnings. The segment registered a 4.6 per cent increase in volume and a 6.35 per cent rise in value, reaffirming its dominant position in India’s seafood export basket.

US Market Weakens Amid Tariff Pressures

The United States retained the largest export destination, with imports worth USD 2.32 billion. However, shipments to the US declined sharply, with volumes falling by 19.8 per cent and value by 14.5 per cent, largely attributed to the impact of reciprocal tariffs.

Emerging Markets Offset Decline in Traditional Destinations

The shortfall was offset by strong performance in alternative markets. Exports to China, the second-largest destination, rose 22.7 per cent in value and 20.1 per cent in volume, while the European Union recorded a significant jump of 37.9 per cent in value and 35.2 per cent in volume. Southeast Asian markets also expanded robustly, with growth exceeding 36.1 per cent in value and 28.2 per cent in volume. Japan posted a moderate increase of 6.55 per cent in value, whereas exports to West Asia saw a marginal decline of 0.55 per cent amid regional geopolitical tensions towards the end of the fiscal year.

“Several individual markets registered strong double-digit growth, underscoring a clear shift towards diversification amid trade headwinds in traditional markets,” the Ministry said.

Mixed Performance Across Product Categories

Among product categories, frozen fish, squid, cuttlefish, dried seafood, and live products showed positive momentum. In contrast, chilled products registered a decline. Segments such as surimi, fishmeal, and fish oil also reported improved performance during the year.

On the logistics front, five major ports—Vizag, Jawaharlal Nehru Port Trust (JNPT), Kochi, Kolkata, and Chennai—handled nearly 64 per cent of total export value, underlining their critical role in India’s seafood export supply chain.

OPPO India has confirmed that the Find X9 Ultra and the Find X9s will come to India in May 2026. The Find X9 Ultra was just launched in China, and its specifications are out now. The Indian pricing will be out when it launches in India. As for the Find X9s, it is expected to be the rebadged Find X9s Pro. This is truly interesting that OPPO is expanding the Find X9 lineup in India which already includes two powerful phones including the Find X9 and Find X9 Pro.

Read More – Vivo Hikes Price of Multiple Devices in India

The Find X9 Ultra has a quad-camera setup at the rear, and what’s interesting is that there are two lens which hold a 200MP sensor. What’s more is that the Hasselblad partnership continues with this these phones which earlier used to be available with OnePlus flagships too but was discontinued with the OnePlus 15.

Read More – Redmi A7, Redmi A7 Pro Launched in India: Price and Specifications

OPPO Find X9s will also join the lineup and will be focused on people who are looking for phones for everyday content creation. OPPO India has not yet confirmed the exact launch date, but has said that these devices will make it to the market in May 2026. More details should come to surface for the Indian units as the launch nears.

TRAI Advises Users to Monitor Internet Performance Regularly

In a series of posts on X (formerly Twitter) on April 21, the Indian telecom regulator highlighted that consumers can measure their internet speed and approach their service providers in case of discrepancies or services fall short of promised speeds. To facilitate this, TRAI has introduced the updated MySpeed App, designed to help users assess real-time internet performance.

TRAI MySpeed App

The MySpeed App allows users to test both mobile data networks (3G, 4G, and 5G) and fixed-line Wi-Fi connections. It provides detailed metrics including download speed, upload speed, latency, and packet loss, offering a broader view of network quality beyond basic speed measurements.

According to TRAI, the app also evaluates internet performance during everyday activities such as video streaming, web browsing, and application usage, enabling users to better understand network behaviour under different conditions.

Real-World Usage Testing for Streaming and Browsing

For new internet connections, the regulator recommends periodic testing using the app at different times of the day. This helps users determine when and where their connection performs optimally or experiences degradation, and verify whether they are receiving the speeds promised by their service provider.

“Check with the TRAI MySpeed App whether you’re getting the promised speed. Test at different times of the day. This helps you identify where and when your internet performs better or worse,” TRAI said.

TRAI emphasised that the MySpeed App is free to download and use, encouraging consumers to make informed decisions and stay aware of their internet service quality through transparent performance insights. The app is available on both Android and Apple iOS platforms.

New Framework Focuses on Overall Network Quality

Meanwhile, the Google Play Store description of the app, updated as of April 7, 2026, states that the MySpeed platform now uses a “standardised, regulator-aligned methodology” to measure network performance.

“TRAI MySpeed introduces a new and enhanced framework for measuring network performance using a standardized, regulator-aligned methodology. The application enables users to assess internet performance across mobile and Wi-Fi networks through multiple test modes, while contributing anonymized data to support network performance assessment, analysis, and transparency initiatives by TRAI.

This version of application shifts focus from basic speed testing to a more comprehensive measurement of network quality, stability, and usability under real-world conditions,” the description read.