Hyderabad tech startup appoints golden retriever as chief happiness officer: ‘He just shows up, steals hearts…'
Pet-friendly workplaces are becoming increasingly popular, as companies recognise the benefits of allowing pets in the office to enhance employee well-being, reduce stress, and boost morale. Major companies like Amazon, Google have long embraced this trend, with research showing that having animals around can lower stress levels, promote social interaction, and even improve productivity.
A Hyderabad-based startup has captured the internet's attention and hearts by hiring a golden retriever as its Chief Happiness Officer (CHO). Harvesting Robotics, co-founded by Rahul Arepaka, welcomed Denver, their furry new teammate, in a move that quickly gained reactions, followed by a heartwarming announcement on LinkedIn.
'Meet our newest hire, Denver – Chief Happiness Officer,' Arepaka wrote. 'He doesn't code. He doesn't care. He just shows up, steals hearts, and keeps the energy up. Also, we're officially pet-friendly now. Best decision. BTW: He's got the best perks in the company,' the post added.
The robotics company, which focuses on laser-weeding solutions to promote sustainable agriculture, introduced the pet-friendly policy alongside Denver's arrival. Arepaka called it 'the best decision.' The viral post shows Denver seated next to a desk in the office with a blue collar.
See the post here:
The company's move to bring in a pet to enhance its employees' well-being met with an outpouring of love and support. The post garnered over eleven thousand views on LinkedIn. 'Best thing I've seen today,' a user wrote. 'New ideas new thought process. Best of luck,' another user commented.
'Great decision. Real Stress blaster and Employee benefit,' a third user reacted. 'Such a great decision,' a fourth user chimed in.
Research from the Human Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI) reveals that 87 per cent of employees working in pet-friendly environments are more likely to remain with their company, while 91 per cent report feeling more engaged in their work.
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Time of India
33 minutes ago
- Time of India
Logistics firms under pressure; The race to deliver style
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Mint
36 minutes ago
- Mint
Premium air coolers in 2025 that will make you ditch your ACs: Top 10 coolers on Amazon
Air conditioners may be the go-to cooling solution for many, but rising electricity bills and maintenance costs are making people look for smarter alternatives. That's where people have started to consider premium air coolers for all day cooling in Summer. Product Rating Price Most premium cooler Crompton Ozone 75 Litres Desert Air Cooler for home | Large & Easy Clean Ice Chamber | 4-Way Air Deflection | High Density Honeycomb Pads | Everlast Pump | Auto Fill View Details Bajaj PX97 Torque New 36L Personal Air Cooler For Home | High Speed Fan | 30Ft Powerful Air Throw | Inverter Compatible | Cooler For Room | 3 Yrs (1 Yr Standard + 2 Yrs Extended) Warranty【White】 View Details Best value for money Symphony Diet 12T Personal Tower Air Cooler for Home with Honeycomb Pad, Powerful Blower, i-Pure Technology and Low Power Consumption (12L, White) View Details Orient Electric Durachill 40 L Portable Air Cooler For Home | Densenest Honeycomb Pads |17% More Air Delivery | Fully Collapsible Louvers |Inverter Compatible | Air Cooler For Room | White & Grey View Details Bajaj DMH 115L Desert Air Cooler For Home | Cooler For Larger Room | Inverter Compatible | Big Ice Chamber | 3 Yrs Warranty (1 Yr Standard + 2 Yrs Extended Warranty) 【White】 View Details View More With advancements in technology, today's air coolers offer powerful airflow, large water tank capacity, energy-efficient performance, and features like remote control, inverter compatibility, and honeycomb pads for better cooling. They're also more eco-friendly and budget-friendly compared to ACs. In this guide, we've rounded up the top 10 premium air coolers in 2025, available on Amazon, that deliver exceptional performance at a lower price. Ready to beat the heat in style? Let's take a look at the coolest picks of the season. If you're tired of AC bills or looking for a better cooling option for dry, hot areas, this Crompton Ozone 75L air cooler is worth a look. It gives powerful airflow, holds enough water to last through the night, and cools big rooms easily. What makes it better than just a fan or regular, cooler is the added value—an ice chamber for faster cooling, a smart auto-fill feature, and honeycomb pads for long-lasting comfort. It also works during power cuts, making it a practical choice for Indian homes. Cooling Capacity 4200 m³/hr, covers up to 490 sq. ft Water Tank 75 litres with auto-fill function Cooling Pads High-density honeycomb pads Power Consumption 190 watts, inverter-compatible Special Feature Large ice chamber, 4-way air deflection Powerful cooling even in large rooms Inverter-compatible for power cut situations No remote control Slightly bulky for smaller spaces What are buyers saying on Amazon? Buyers say it's well-built and cools rooms well, but opinions vary on noise, performance, airflow, value, and odor issues. You should choose this product because it offers high cooling, air purification, and energy savings in one reliable cooler. This Bajaj PX97 Torque is one of the most trusted premium air coolers in 2025 for small to mid-sized rooms. It's compact, budget-friendly, and cools quickly with its turbo fan and 30-ft air throw. It also comes with a Duramarine pump designed to last longer in tough water conditions. If you're wondering, is premium air cooler better than AC, this one makes a solid case for room-based, power-saving cooling with better air quality than many fans or non-branded coolers. Cooling Technology Hexacool pads with antibacterial treatment Power Consumption Energy efficient and inverter-compatible Mobility 4-way castor wheels for easy movement Antibacterial pads for cleaner air Strong air throw despite compact size Not ideal for large rooms Manual controls only What are buyers saying on Amazon? Buyers have mixed views on quality, size, and performance. Some praise it, while others report noise, durability, and functionality issues. You should choose this product because it offers strong cooling, clean air, and long-term value with a 3-year warranty. If you're looking for a sleek air cooler that fits in tight spaces and still delivers powerful airflow, the Symphony Diet 12T is a solid pick. Ideal for rooms up to 12 sq. meters, this tower-style cooler has a 12L tank and a high-speed blower that cools quickly. What sets it apart is the i-Pure Technology that filters dust, odour, and allergens, making the air not just cooler but also cleaner. Its honeycomb cooling pads and dura pump enhance efficiency, while its 170W low power consumption makes it inverter-friendly. Cooling Technology Honeycomb pads with cool flow dispenser Air Purification i-Pure multistage filtration Power Consumption Only 170W, works with inverters Mobility Compact tower design with 4 castor wheels Space-saving design Low power consumption Air purification filters Limited cooling range 1-year warranty only What are buyers saying on Amazon? Buyers have mixed feedback on functionality, cooling, noise, size, value, and water leakage, with opinions varying from excellent to problematic. Choose it for a mix of style and functionality, cleaner air, lower power bills, and efficient personal cooling in a compact form. Perfect for dorms, small bedrooms, or study areas. The Orient Electric Durachill 40L is one of the premium air coolers in 2025 that delivers powerful, clean, and fresh air for your home. Its special Densenest Honeycomb pads hold more water, cooling the air better and longer. The multi-stage purification keeps dust and insects away, so you breathe healthier air. This air cooler moves easily on wheels and works well even during power cuts, making it a practical choice for any home. Air Flow Capacity 1750 Cubic Feet Per Minute Cooling Pads 3-Side Densenest Honeycomb Pads Mobility 360-degree swivel wheels Power Compatibility Inverter Compatible Strong air delivery for bigger rooms Keeps air clean with multi-stage purification Only 1-year warranty Slightly heavy to move without wheels What are buyers saying on Amazon? Buyers have mixed views on cooling, size, functionality, quality, and value, with many complaining about noise and poor fan durability. You should choose this product because it cools efficiently while purifying air, saving energy and offering smooth movement. The Bajaj DMH 115L Desert Air Cooler is a top choice among premium air coolers in 2025 for large rooms up to 300 sq ft. Its big 115-litre tank and ice chamber boost cooling, making summers much more comfortable. The DuraMarine pump protects against moisture, extending the cooler's life. With antibacterial Hexacool pads, it keeps air fresh and clean. It's inverter compatible and comes with a 3-year warranty, offering reliable, long-lasting cooling. Air Flow Capacity 3178 Cubic Feet Per Minute Cooling Technology Anti-bacterial Hexacool Master Pads Special Feature Large Ice Chamber for extra cooling Warranty 3 Years (1 Year Standard + 2 Years Extended) Powerful air throw cools large rooms quickly Durable pump with moisture protection Heavy, needs space to move Basic knob controls, no remote What are buyers saying on Amazon? Buyers praise its fast cooling, strong airflow, value, and design, but report mixed opinions on noise, size, and occasional functionality issues. You should choose this product because it cools large rooms efficiently while providing fresh, antibacterial air and long-lasting durability. The Symphony Ice Cube 27 is one of the best premium air coolers in 2025, designed for rooms up to 16 square meters. Its 3-side honeycomb pads and i-Pure Technology work together to fight dust, pollution, and odours, giving you cleaner and fresher air. The cooler uses just 95 watts, so it saves electricity and works well with inverters during power cuts. With a 27-litre tank and powerful blower, it keeps your space comfortably cool without high bills. Cooling Pads 3-side Honeycomb Pads Power Consumption 95 watts Air Purification Multistage i-Pure Technology Controls Remote control with ergonomic dial knobs Energy-efficient and inverter compatible Cleans air while cooling, reducing allergies Suitable only for small to medium rooms Needs open doors/windows for best cooling What are buyers saying on Amazon? Buyers have mixed views on cooling, size, noise, water pump, airflow, fan speed, and value, with many reporting issues and varied satisfaction levels. You should choose this product because it cools efficiently, purifies air, and saves electricity, making summer comfortable and healthy. Another go-to premium air cooler in 2025 is the RR Signature Zello 70L. With its 70-litre tank and powerful 3800 CMPH airflow, it cools large rooms quickly. The honeycomb pads add value by absorbing dust and keeping the air clean. Fully collapsible louvres block dust and insects when not in use, making it easier to maintain. Inverter compatibility ensures you stay cool even during power cuts. Its castor wheels help you move it around easily for flexible cooling. Reservoir Capacity 70 litres Air Flow Capacity 3800 CMPH Cooling Pads Honeycomb Pads Special Features Fully collapsible louvres, Ice Chamber Controls Knob with 3 speed modes Powerful airflow cools large rooms fast Inverter compatible for uninterrupted cooling Slightly heavy to move without wheels Louvres may need regular cleaning What are buyers saying on Amazon? Buyers praise its quality, powerful cooling, and budget-friendly value for large rooms, but report mixed performance, durability, and fan speed experiences. You should choose this product because it offers strong cooling, cleaner air, and works well during power outages for comfort all summer. Premium air coolers in 2025 offer more than just cool air—they clean it too. These air coolers use special purification stages, like Bacto-Shield honeycomb pads, which reduce bacteria and keep the air fresh and odour-free. Unlike a regular fan, they give cool, clean air without the heavy electricity bills of an AC. For anyone wanting a budget-friendly, natural way to stay cool, a premium cooler is a smart choice. These air coolers suit rooms up to 260 sq ft with easy mobility and long-lasting parts. Air Flow Capacity 2200 Cubic Feet Per Minute Reservoir Capacity 38 litres Cooling Pads Bacto-Shield Honeycomb Pads Mobility Castor Wheels for easy movement Reduces bacteria for fresher air Easy to move and maintain Limited cooling for very large rooms Plastic body may feel less sturdy What are buyers saying on Amazon? Buyers like the design, low noise, and value but report mixed performance, water pump failures, poor airflow, size issues, and slow fan speed. You should choose this product because it offers cool, fresh air with less power use and easy movement around your home. Premium air coolers in 2025 like the Havells Koolmate 40L are built to keep your home cool with fresh, clean air. This cooler uses bacteria shield honeycomb pads that fight germs and bad smells, so the air you breathe stays healthy. Its large ice chamber and 3-side chill drip technology give faster, stronger cooling without using much power. Perfect for bedrooms and living rooms, this air cooler moves air well and lasts long with less refilling. Air Flow Capacity 1060 Cubic Feet Per Minute Reservoir Capacity 40 litres Cooling Technology 3-Side Chill Drip with Ice Chamber Controls Knob with Adjustable Speed Bacteria shield keeps air fresh and healthy Large tank reduces frequent refills Air delivery may be less powerful for very large rooms Plastic body feels lightweight What are buyers saying on Amazon? Buyers praise its quality and cooling but report mixed noise levels, fan failures, and issues with vertical louvers detaching from the window. You should choose this product because it cools efficiently, purifies air, and runs long without needing frequent water refills. The Havells Aero 150L offer strong, reliable cooling for big spaces. With a huge 150-liter tank and automatic water refill, it runs longer without constant refills. Its 22-inch metal fan moves cool air quietly and powerfully. The 3-side bacteria shield honeycomb pads and dust filter nets keep the air clean by reducing germs and dust, making it a smart choice for both commercial and large home use. This one might be a new product but users experience a positive review, Air Flow Capacity 12,000 m³/h Reservoir Capacity 150 litres Fan Size 22-inch Metal Blade Cooling Technology 3-Side Chill Drip with Bacteria Shield Pads Special Features Auto Fill Function, Dust Filter Nets Large tank with auto fill means less maintenance Bacteria shield and dust filters improve air quality Heavy and less portable Slightly higher price compared to regular coolers What are buyers saying on Amazon? Buyers say that this cooler features the best motor in the market, delivering 1200 m³/hr airflow, unmatched by any other air cooler. Its powerful BLDC motor works smoothly on inverters and low voltage. You should choose this product because it cools large areas efficiently while keeping the air fresh and needs less refilling. Yes, premium air coolers offer better build quality, efficient cooling with honeycomb pads, larger water tanks, and features like remote control, air purification, and inverter compatibility. They're more durable and suitable for larger spaces, making them a smarter long-term investment than basic models. Air coolers are less effective in high humidity since they rely on evaporative cooling. However, some premium models come with humidity control and ice chambers that slightly improve performance. In coastal or very humid areas, an air conditioner might still be more efficient. Yes, air coolers consume up to 80% less electricity than air conditioners. Even the high-end models are energy-efficient and work well with inverters, making them ideal for cost-conscious households looking for sustainable cooling solutions. Cooling Capacity (Air Delivery or CFM): Choose a cooler with airflow (measured in CFM) that matches your room size. Higher CFM means better air throw and wider coverage. Water Tank Capacity: Larger tanks (40–80L) offer longer cooling hours without frequent refills, ideal for continuous use, especially in bigger rooms. Cooling Pads: Look for honeycomb or cellulose pads. They last longer, absorb water better, and deliver more effective cooling than traditional aspen pads. Power Consumption & Inverter Compatibility: Ensure it's energy-efficient and can run on an inverter, especially if you're in an area prone to power cuts. Noise Level: Premium coolers usually operate quietly, but always check the noise rating if you need it for bedrooms or office spaces. Advanced Features: Remote control, digital display, humidity control, castor wheels, ice chamber, and air purification filters add convenience and enhance usability. Premium air coolers in 2025 Capacity (Litres) Air Flow Capacity Controls Crompton Ozone 75 4200 m³/hr Knob control Bajaj PX97 Torque 36 Up to 30 feet air throw Knob control Symphony Diet 12T 12 Not specified Knob control Orient Electric Durachill 40 1750 Cubic Feet Per Minute Knob control Bajaj DMH 115L Desert Air Cooler 115 3178 Cubic Feet Per Minute Knob control Symphony Ice Cube 27 27 Not specified Remote control with dial knobs RR Signature Zello 70L 70 3800 CMPH Knob with 3 speed modes Havells Koolmate 40 L Desert Air Cooler 38 2200 Cubic Feet Per Minute Knob control Havells Koolmate 40L 40 1060 Cubic Feet Per Minute Knob with Adjustable Speed Havells Aero 150L 150 12,000 m³/h Knob control Disclaimer: Mint has an affiliate marketing partnership, which means we may get some commission on purchases you make through the retailer sites links provided. These partnerships do not influence our editorial content, which is free from any bias or marketing pitch. We strive to provide accurate and unbiased information to help you make informed decisions. We recommend verifying details with the retailer before making a purchase.
Indian Express
40 minutes ago
- Indian Express
Nintendo's Switch 2 goes on sale as the hybrid game console looks at a blockbuster opening
Nintendo aims to recreate what Apple was once known for — long lines at retail stores on launch day for the iPhone. While that kind of momentum hasn't been seen for a tech product in years, the Switch 2 could take its place as it goes on sale worldwide Thursday. However, there's no guarantee that consumers will walk away with a Switch 2 in hand, Nintendo's first new console in eight years — and the successor to the smash hit Switch — which remains in tight supply amid strong pre-orders in the company's biggest markets, including the US. 'Consumers should be aware that availability will be extremely limited worldwide, at least over the next few weeks or even months. If you can find a Switch, buy it immediately, as prices might go up in the future due to the volatile situation with US tariffs,' Serkan Toto, CEO of Tokyo-based consultancy Kantan Games, told The Switch 2 debuts at a critical time for Nintendo, as its next-generation game console is vital to both the company's business and the overall health of the video game console market. The video game industry experienced a boom during the COVID-19 pandemic, with people stuck at home and companies like Nintendo seeing dizzying success with the original Switch. But now, as life returns to normal, there's pressure on Nintendo to make its new console a hit with consumers. What may be Nintendo's biggest advantage is the loyal fan base it has built over the past few years, especially in the US, thanks to the unprecedented success of the Switch, which has sold 150 million units worldwide since its launch in 2017. That success has made the Kyoto-based company cash-rich, with the Switch alone generating $100 billion in sales for one of the world's oldest and most respected video game companies. During the Switch era, Nintendo also expanded into new business areas, including theme parks, movies, and subscription-based services, transforming itself into an entertainment empire. This strategic shift moves the company beyond the traditional gaming segment, and into territory more commonly associated with Disney. Nintendo is launching the Switch 2 in the middle of the year, rather than during the fall season when most major tech launches typically occur. The company chose a summer release to capitalise on the time when kids are out of school. This underscores the importance of kids and families to a product like the Switch 2. Nintendo has traditionally marketed its games to appeal to a broad user base, especially casual gamers. That formula has worked well, setting Nintendo apart from its biggest competitors, Sony and Microsoft, which cater more heavily to core and hardcore gaming audiences. As Nintendo enters a new generation with the Switch 2, it has made bold decisions that could shape the company's future. The Switch 2 doesn't look dramatically different from its predecessor — it's still a hybrid system with a built-in screen and a TV dock, allowing players to 'switch' between handheld and home console modes. This continuity is notable, given Nintendo's history of experimenting with radically different console designs each generation. In that sense, the Switch 2 marks a departure from the company's traditional approach to hardware innovation. The Switch 2 is also more powerful, featuring a modern custom processor developed by Nvidia that supports AI processing. The device sports an 8-inch screen and delivers a sharper 1080p resolution, while the dock supports up to 4K output on compatible TVs. The detachable Joy-Con controllers return, now with changes in both size and functionality. A standout feature is the built-in optical sensor, which allows the controller to function like a computer mouse when placed on a table or lap — ideal for games like Fortnite and Metroid. For investors, the success of the Switch has benefited Nintendo, not only by strengthening its cash reserves, but also by proving the company's ability to deliver a hit product that resonates with the masses. The Switch has generated a steady stream of income through game sales and services. In many ways, it functions more as a platform, much like the iPhone does for Apple. This may be one reason why Nintendo has taken a more cautious approach with the Switch 2. This strategy is evident in Mario Kart World, a launch title for the Switch 2, where Nintendo is clearly betting on the success of a proven franchise. The previous instalment, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, sold over 68 million copies on the original Switch. There's also pressure on the company to break the so-called 'post-hit jinx' — a recurring challenge Nintendo has faced in sustaining momentum after major hardware successes. There's a sense that Nintendo chose familiarity over risk with the Switch 2. This suggests that the company has finally settled on the ideal form factor for a hybrid console, and plans to stick with it while continuing to refine and improve the experience. However, the Switch 2 comes at a premium, priced at $449, substantially more than its $300 predecessor. That's a significant jump for a console, and Nintendo is also charging more for its first-party games, with Mario Kart World priced at $80. 'Consumers seem to be generally OK with the price point, and I believe this won't be a big issue if Nintendo can keep the price stable over time,' Toto said. 'The excitement around the launch is very high in Nintendo's key markets, particularly the US, Europe, and Japan, so we should expect a successful launch.' The early reception to the Switch 2 has been strong and eclipses the hype surrounding the original Switch. While Nintendo has not disclosed pre-order numbers for the US market, in Japan, where the company is headquartered, over 2.2 million people have pre-ordered the Switch 2 through Nintendo's own online store alone. Toto calls the pre-order figure for Japan 'an incredible number.' 'The US has always been, and still is, Nintendo's biggest market, but the original Switch was a smash hit in Japan in particular. Nintendo wants to maintain that momentum in its home country by making the Switch 2 as affordable as possible. The international model in Japan is of a special interest device that is sold as an alternative to the high-priced version. That version will likely play a smaller role in Japan going forward,' Toto said. In Japan, Nintendo is offering two versions of the Switch 2: a Japanese-only model priced at ¥49,980 (about $350), and a multilingual version priced at ¥69,980 (about $500), which is available exclusively through the My Nintendo Store. Additionally, Nintendo is offering higher margins to Japanese retailers as part of its domestic push for the Switch 2. Nintendo, known for creating memorable characters and retelling their stories through its games over many years, is launching its most important product in years, at what may be the worst possible time. This coincides with US President Donald Trump introducing a slew of tariffs on foreign goods, particularly targeting Asia, where many tech supply chains are based. As a result, Nintendo is more vulnerable to Trump's tariffs. While the company has not changed the retail price of the Switch 2 in the US, it has announced price increases on Switch 2 accessories, such as controllers and carrying cases 'I think in the first year and with enough supply, Nintendo can sell 20 million units of the new device. After that initial wave of early adopters and hardcore fans, it will be Nintendo's challenge to convince as many people as possible to upgrade further down the life cycle,'' Toto said. With the Switch 2 being Nintendo's most expensive console, the company is on top of the world, and its stock is at an all-time high. While some may see the Switch 2 as merely a souped-up version of the original Switch, it is also Nintendo's riskiest product yet. The company needs it to be a major success, as a lot is riding on it — its success will ultimately determine whether Nintendo can move forward on its path to becoming a broader entertainment company. After all, unlike Sony or Microsoft, Nintendo doesn't have any other major product lines to fall back on. Perhaps Nintendo's secret to domination lies in the intellectual property it has built over the years. It's hard to quantify just how big Nintendo truly is, given its many franchises and beloved characters that span generations. Iconic games and characters like Mario and Zelda — and the way Nintendo continues to present them to new audiences — give the Switch 2 a lead in the video games market, especially at a time when competition from smartphone games is strong and rivals have finally recognised the potential of the handheld gaming market. Anuj Bhatia is a personal technology writer at who has been covering smartphones, personal computers, gaming, apps, and lifestyle tech actively since 2011. He specialises in writing longer-form feature articles and explainers on trending tech topics. His unique interests encompass delving into vintage tech, retro gaming and composing in-depth narratives on the intersection of history, technology, and popular culture. He covers major international tech conferences and product launches from the world's biggest and most valuable tech brands including Apple, Google and others. At the same time, he also extensively covers indie, home-grown tech startups. Prior to joining The Indian Express in late 2016, he served as a senior tech writer at My Mobile magazine and previously held roles as a reviewer and tech writer at Gizbot. Anuj holds a postgraduate degree from Banaras Hindu University. You can find Anuj on Linkedin. Email: ... Read More
