Author: Aadithya Harish

OpenAI has officially started testing ads for ChatGPT users on its Free and Go subscription plans in the United States, marking a major shift in how the popular AI platform may be monetised going forward. The company confirmed the move in a post on X formerly Twitter, stating that ads are clearly labelled as sponsored and visually separated from ChatGPT’s responses. Importantly, OpenAI says advertisements will not influence ChatGPT’s answers. Instead, they will appear as separate sponsored elements within the interface. Higher tier plans, including ChatGPT Plus, Pro, Business, Enterprise, and Education, will remain completely ad free. The goal, according…

Snapchat has rolled out a powerful new safety feature called Arrival Notifications on Snap Map, expanding its earlier Home Safe option. The update allows users to automatically notify friends or family when they reach specific destinations, whether it is a class, office, hotel, or meeting spot. With this feature, Snapchat aims to make location sharing smarter, more flexible, and less dependent on manual check in messages. What Are Snapchat Arrival Notifications Arrival Notifications build on Snapchat’s existing Home Safe feature, which lets users alert someone once they reach home safely. Now, Snapchat is extending that capability to cover multiple destinations,…

Discord is rolling out a major update focused on age verification and teen safety, and it could change how millions of users access the platform. Starting March, users who fail to confirm their age may face account restrictions, as Discord moves to a stricter, safety-first model for both new and existing accounts. Discord to enforce age verification in phases According to Discord’s official blog, the new age verification system will be introduced gradually. Users who have not verified their age using either a face scan or a government-issued ID will be placed under restricted default settings. These limits are designed…

Google is preparing to expand Android’s Quick Share interoperability with Apple’s AirDrop to a wider range of Android smartphones, moving beyond its current Pixel-only availability. The feature, which enables cross-platform file sharing between Android and Apple devices, is expected to roll out to more phones later this year. According to a report by Android Authority, Google has confirmed that it is actively working with multiple smartphone brands to extend the feature across the broader Android ecosystem. This move signals a major step toward seamless file sharing between Android phones and iPhones, iPads, and MacBooks. Quick Share AirDrop Support Expanding Beyond…

Apple may be preparing to unveil its next affordable iPhone sooner than expected. According to recent reports, the iPhone 17e could launch as early as February 19, continuing Apple’s emerging annual refresh cycle for its ‘e’ series. A report suggests that discussions around the iPhone 17e launch timeline are already taking place within accessory and case manufacturing circles. Interestingly, February 19 would mark exactly one year since Apple introduced the iPhone 16e, strengthening speculation around a yearly release strategy for this lineup. While Apple typically avoids hardware announcements on Thursdays and prefers early weekdays, the broader February launch window still…

Google has started rolling out a Gemini-powered photo editing feature in Google Photos for users in India, making it easier to edit images using simple text or voice commands. The feature, called “Help me edit,” allows users to describe the changes they want instead of manually adjusting editing tools. Initially launched with the Pixel 10 series and later expanded to Android users in the US, the feature is now available more widely across supported Android devices in India. Google Photos “Help me edit” Feature: What’s New in India The Help me edit feature supports multiple Indian languages, making AI photo…

Apple has officially rolled out the iOS 26.3 release candidate (RC) to developers and public beta testers, signalling that the final public release is just around the corner. The RC build is typically identical to the version that reaches all users, unless critical bugs are discovered. The iOS 26.3 update brings a mix of new features, privacy upgrades, visual changes, and system-level improvements, many of which were spotted throughout the beta cycle. From easier device switching to enhanced notification access for third-party accessories, here’s everything you need to know. iOS 26.3 Update: What’s New and What to Expect Easier Transfer…

Spotify has introduced a major update to its lyrics feature, aiming to make lyrics easier to understand, access and follow during playback. The new rollout focuses on three core improvements: global lyric translations, offline lyrics support and a refreshed lyrics display on the Now Playing screen. The update targets listeners who enjoy music across languages and those who often listen without a stable internet connection. Lyric Translations Go Global One of the biggest highlights of the update is the worldwide availability of lyric translations. Previously limited to select regions, the feature now allows users everywhere to view translated lyrics for…

 As 2026 begins, skywatchers around the world are preparing for a spectacular celestial lineup. February will mark the first of four eclipses scheduled for the year, featuring a rare annular solar eclipse on February 17, 2026. Popularly known as the “Ring of Fire” eclipse, this event promises a breathtaking view for observers in select parts of the world. During an annular solar eclipse, the Moon moves between the Earth and the Sun but appears slightly smaller due to its greater distance from Earth. As a result, the Sun is not completely covered, creating a glowing ring of sunlight around the…

Adobe has introduced a major update to its generative AI platform Firefly by allowing subscribers to create unlimited AI generated images and videos for a limited time. The move removes the usual credit limits, giving creators more freedom to experiment and produce content without restrictions. The update is currently available to eligible Firefly subscribers and applies across image and video generation tools. What Is Changing in Adobe Firefly Adobe Firefly normally operates on a credit based system where users receive a fixed number of monthly credits for AI content creation. With this update, Adobe is temporarily lifting those limits for…

WhatsApp is testing a new feature on iOS that introduces admin profiles for Channel updates. The update is designed to show which admin has posted a specific update, bringing more clarity and transparency to Channels managed by multiple people. The feature is currently available to select beta users on iOS and may roll out publicly in a future update. What Are Admin Profiles on WhatsApp Channels Admin profiles allow Channel managers to create a separate public facing identity for posting updates. Instead of updates appearing anonymously, followers can now see the name and profile photo of the admin who shared…

Microsoft is stepping up Copilot’s usefulness with a brand-new Reminders feature that brings timely push notifications straight to users’ smartphones. The feature is currently rolling out on Android and iOS, with limited functionality available on the web, making Copilot more competitive with AI assistants like ChatGPT and Perplexity. With this update, users can ask Copilot to remind them about tasks such as “remind me in 10 minutes” even while using Copilot on the web. When the time comes, Copilot sends a push notification to the user’s phone, provided the app is installed and notifications are enabled. According to a report…

Google appears to be working on a new set of advanced features for Gemini, its AI-powered chatbot, that could significantly improve how users manage conversations, media, and content across platforms. Among the features currently spotted in early testing builds is an option that would allow users to import chat histories from other AI chatbots, including ChatGPT. The upcoming tools were first shared by TestingCatalog, a reliable source for uncovering experimental Google features. While these additions are still under development and not yet available to the public, they offer a glimpse into Google’s plans to make Gemini more flexible and competitive…

Instagram is reportedly working on a much-needed privacy upgrade that could finally give users more control over their social boundaries. According to a report, the Meta-owned platform is developing a feature that would allow users to remove themselves from another person’s Close Friends list, quietly and without sending a notification. If rolled out, the update would let users opt out of seeing private Stories, Reels, and posts shared with a restricted audience, something that hasn’t been possible since Close Friends was first introduced. Instagram Close Friends: What’s Changing? The Close Friends feature was designed to help users share content with…

Spotify is taking its social ambitions a step further. The music streaming giant has officially expanded its in-app messaging feature to support group chats, allowing users to talk, react, and share audio content with up to 10 people at once without leaving the app. The update builds on Spotify’s existing Messages feature, first introduced in August last year, and aims to make music discovery and discussion more interactive and personal. Spotify Group Chats: What’s New? With group chats now live, Spotify users can discuss and share songs, podcasts, playlists, and audiobooks directly inside the app. Until now, most music conversations…

What’s the most disruptive campaign, idea, or marketing move you’ve led recently, and what made it stand out? “The Great In-Game Wedding” was one of the most disruptive ideas we’ve executed because it turned BGMI into aninherently Indian cultural stage rather than a game. The idea stood out because it was rooted in a very real emotional truth, players who fell in love while playing BGMI, got married! It worked because it wasn’t just a marketing campaign; it was world-building inspired by the community itself, with popular Youtubers and fashion designers participating with equal enthusiasm as 200,000 players. It was…

What’s the most disruptive campaign, idea, or marketing move you’ve led recently, and what made it stand out? One of the most disruptive campaigns I’ve led is Under Armour’s Zidd for More, which followed Neeraj Chopra’s training journey leading up to the Olympics. The campaign focused on his struggle, discipline, and determination, showcasing the real, unfiltered side of pursuing excellence. Rooted in authenticity, it strongly reflected Under Armour’s values and resonated deeply with Indian audiences. The campaign generated over 200 million views, more than 10% engagement, and drove a 40% increase in website traffic. What was the spark behind that…

What’s the most disruptive campaign, idea, or marketing move you’ve led recently, and what made it stand out? Beyond That Horizon, created for CEAT’s 100-year milestone, broke category norms by shifting from functional tyre advertising to creator-led storytelling. Instead of scripted performance claims, we enabled road-loving creators to share real journeys, positioning tyres as enablers of exploration. By blending CEAT’s global heritage with immersive, experience-led narratives, the campaign proved that emotional resonance can elevate brand equity in a traditionally rational category. What was the spark behind that idea? The spark was recognising that mobility today is about experience, not just…

What’s the most disruptive campaign, idea, or marketing move you’ve led recently, and what made it stand out? Two initiatives have defined MSI’s growth in India: the Expansion Program and our record-breaking Diwali Campaign. The Expansion Program scaled MSI from 10 to 50 stores post-pandemic, introduced free nationwide service camps, and helped offline partners transition to digital-first models, driving 15% sales growth. Beyond immediate business impact, we invested in the future through AI and Creator Workshops, engaging over 20,000 students by connecting them with industry professionals and real-world skills. Building on this momentum, our Diwali Campaign combined localised offers, influencer…

What is the most disruptive campaign, idea, or marketing move you have led recently, and what made it stand out? Snapdragon has traditionally operated in the background, powering smartphones, cars, PCs, and smart glasses. Over the past year, we’ve deliberately shifted from being perceived as a “chip maker” to becoming a consumer-facing brand associated with experiences. Snapdragon for India was central to this shift, bringing the brand to the forefront through culturally relevant storytelling rather than specifications. Last year, it evolved into a month-long celebration spanning XR and Auto, with Snapdragon for India – Auto Day standing out as the…

What’s the most disruptive campaign, idea, or marketing move you’ve led recently, and what made it stand out? The most disruptive idea for me has been the launch positioning of our new car, the EX30, in India with the line “The big surprise is here.” The EX30 delivers meaningful value, advanced technology, and dynamic driving performance in a compact package. This unexpected combination creates a sense of surprise while building an emotional connection with customers, making the positioning both rationally strong and emotionally engaging. What was the spark behind that idea? The spark was the desire to highlight the “BIG”…

What’s the most disruptive campaign, idea, or marketing move you’ve led recently, and what made it stand out? Our most disruptive move is a philosophy, not just a campaign: #ForwardKaroCare. It redefines insurance from a purely personal safeguard into an act of collective care. When someone buys health insurance, their premium doesn’t just protect their family; it also becomes part of a shared pool that can help a stranger in need. This reframes insurance as a social good, combining personal security with community responsibility. What was the spark behind that idea? The spark came from wanting to shift insurance from…

What’s the most disruptive campaign, idea, or marketing move you’ve led recently, and what made it stand out? The launch campaign for the new Nissan Magnite facelift in October 2024. It was the first-ever launch campaign for Nissan without a TVC, with a strong focus on regionalised, personalised, and social/digital/influencer content. The messaging was focused on “One-car, one world” and included strong proof points. This campaign also emphasised the new Magnite’s improvements, while announcing its export to 65 markets globally, along with having the car’s World Premiere in India. The launch campaign drove all-time best KPIs in terms of website…

What’s the most disruptive campaign, idea, or marketing move you’ve led recently, and what made it stand out? Disruption often starts with clarity. For Kotak’s Hausla Hai Toh Ho Jayega, the shift came from recognising a new Indian mindset: confident, aspirational, and unwilling to wait for permission. At a time when banking communication focused on eligibility and caution, we chose to redefine the brand itself. We relaunched the proposition, design language, retail and app experience, and overall identity to focus on possibility, not limitation. Emerging from an embargo, the moment demanded confident optimism. The campaign reshaped perception, strengthened brand equity,…

Google has rolled out a significant update to Gemini in Chrome, bringing a redesigned side panel, advanced image tools, deeper app integrations, and new automation features. The update is now available on macOS, Windows, and Chromebook Plus devices, and is powered by Google’s Gemini 3 AI model. According to Google, these enhancements are designed to help users multitask more efficiently, reduce tab switching, and complete complex web-based workflows directly inside Chrome. What’s New in Gemini in Chrome Gemini in Chrome Side Panel One of the biggest updates is the introduction of Gemini in a dedicated side panel. Instead of opening…

What’s the most disruptive campaign, idea, or marketing move you’ve led recently, and what made it stand out? Several initiatives have redefined how we engage audiences. Our re-release strategy transformed older films into event-led experiences driven by nostalgia and unmet demand, with titles like Interstellar, Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani, Tumbbad, and Sanam Teri Kasam drawing massive crowds and, in some cases, outperforming their original runs. Each was marketed as a limited-time cultural moment, supported by targeted promotions, influencers, and fan engagement. Blockbuster Tuesdays addressed low weekday footfalls with a bold ₹99 pricing strategy, turning Tuesdays into a destination day and…

What’s the most disruptive campaign, idea, or marketing move you’ve led recently, and what made it stand out? As a brand committed to helping India become friends with technology, we’ve focused on meaningful connections rather than noise. Our recent ‘Happiness Project’ exemplified this approach. It was designed to bridge gaps created by limited access to essential technology. Through a six-episode format, the initiative showed how the right tech enablers can unlock aspirations, empower individuals, and help shape better futures. What was the spark behind that idea? India is full of dreamers and doers who have ambition but often lack access…

What’s the most disruptive campaign, idea, or marketing move you’ve led recently, and what made it stand out? The Honda Goes Beyond campaign has been one of our most impactful initiatives in recent years. Launched in 2022, it was designed to communicate Honda’s core strengths by highlighting a complete peace-of-mind ownership experience, including features like any time warranty. More importantly, it aimed to shift how people view their cars—not merely as modes of transport, but as trusted companions in everyday life. What truly set the campaign apart was its strong alignment with Honda’s philosophy of customer centricity and long-term value…

What’s the most disruptive campaign, idea, or marketing move you’ve led recently, and what made it stand out? One of our most disruptive campaigns was The Tilak of Tribute for the Shreemant Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati Mandir. The idea was to leverage the deep emotional and cultural significance of Ganeshotsav to introduce our category of lab-grown diamonds in a meaningful way. It marked the first-ever diamond donation to the temple—a 66-carat lab-grown diamond tilak presented during the festival. The campaign generated enormous visibility for Solitario, especially with lakhs of devotees attending daily, and helped establish strong cultural relevance for a relatively…

What’s the most disruptive campaign, idea, or marketing move you’ve led recently, and what made it stand out? One of our most impactful campaigns has been Journeys with Audi, created to mark the milestone of 100,000 Audi car sales in India. More than a celebratory campaign, it was designed as a reflection of human ambition and progress, closely aligned with Audi’s ethos of advancement through technology and design. The series showcased stories of extraordinary individuals, with each narrative rooted in Audi’s pillars of sophistication, performance, and vision. What made it truly disruptive was how storytelling extended beyond digital platforms into…