Latest news with #AnujSharma


Hindustan Times
25-07-2025
- Business
- Hindustan Times
Small screens and big ambitions shape new Android flagships
An intriguing shift is underway in India's smartphone market, underlined by a new generation of flagship phones. These are smaller in size, and while sporting similarly premium price tags, better ergonomics work in their favour. Smartphone makers Xiaomi, OnePlus, Vivo, as well as Apple and Samsung, now sell powerful phones with screen sizes that are either 6.3-inches or smaller. In recent years, 6.7-inch and thereabouts screen sizes became the norm for flagships. (Representative file photo) Yet, there are layers to this — overcoming challenges posed by smaller dimensions, sustaining consumer interest, and making compact phones more affordable. In recent years, 6.7-inch and thereabouts screen sizes became the norm for flagships. This evolution now puts the widest selection of smaller phones, for buyers to choose from. The Vivo X200 FE, which went on sale this week, finds competition from the Xiaomi 15, OnePlus 13s, as well as Samsung's Galaxy S25 and the iPhone 16e. Current market prices peg these between ₹50,000 and ₹80,000. 'Compact flagships are gaining priority in India as users often face challenges with large-screen smartphones, such as difficulty operating them with one hand and maintaining a secure grip, raising chances of accidental drops. This has made one-handed usability a key consideration for many consumers,' Tarun Pathak, Research Director at Counterpoint Research, tells HT. Their latest study reveals 74% of young professionals based in India, have a preference for compact smartphones. In a way, this is the smartphone market coming a full circle. 'This is not a sudden shift. Flagship portfolios have traditionally featured two size formats. Ten years ago, it was 5 inches and 5.5 inches. Today, it is closer to 6.3 inches and 6.7 inches,' says Anuj Sharma, Chief Marketing Officer, Xiaomi India. Phones became bigger with time, and now there's a return to some smaller sizes as well. He believes this clearly reflects the needs of two distinct consumer groups—those focused on content creation and consumption, and those who prioritise mobility with one-handed usage. But there is still apprehension, in terms of consumer demographic willing to use compact phones in the long term. 'We are not expecting compact phones to be more than 5% of the total sales this year,' says Faisal Kawoosa, Chief Analyst and co-founder of Techarc. Content consumption trends, and user age, are primary reasons. There's an element of variety in a smartphone portfolio, with focus presently on the premium bands. 'While large-screen smartphones continue to dominate the market, phone makers are strategically positioning compact devices as differentiated offerings,' explains Prabhu Ram, Vice President - Industry Research Group, at CyberMedia Research (CMR). For phone makers, it hasn't been easy to get it right, from a technology standpoint. 'Delivering true flagship performance in a compact size is not a small challenge. With limited internal space in compact devices, this often leads to trade-offs in performance, cooling, and battery endurance. Still, we rose to the challenge,' explains Robin Liu, CEO of OnePlus India. The OnePlus 13s retains specs expected in a top-tier phone, as do the Xiaomi 15 and Vivo X200 FE phones. These include the latest chips from Qualcomm and MediaTek, denser batteries with reconfigured composition for higher capacity, and top-tier cameras optimised by camera makers — Xiaomi has Leica's expertise on its side, while Vivo relies on Zeiss for tuning. 'Foldable phones and compact form factors represent engineering milestones that resonate with distinct consumer profiles,' says CMR's Ram. This market transformation may well be credited to Apple, who launched the 6.1-inch iPhone 16e earlier this year. 'Apple did it for a purpose which was to bring its latest features, especially AI, to a lower price tier and eventually replace the trend of a large segment buying older generation iPhones,' says Techarc's Kawoosa. Apple wants as many users as possible, to buy and use their latest generation hardware, and therefore a strong argument for the iPhone 16e. 'Our belief is that our customers want as much display as they can, in the most comfortable form factor,' Bob Borchers, who is Apple's vice president of Worldwide Product Marketing, explained to HT in a conversation, at the time. A logical next step would be to percolate this trend to more affordable mid-range phones too. Phone makers seem open to the idea. 'From both a technology and portfolio standpoint, the OnePlus 13s marks the beginning of a new chapter for compact flagships in the industry. This opens an exciting roadmap for similar compact mid-range offerings,' says OnePlus India's Liu. Counterpoint's Pathak believes the screen size choice is likely to trickle down to mid-range buyers as well. 'With brands actively launching new phones round the year, introducing compact designs in the mid-range segment could prove fruitful,' he opines. Xiaomi's Sharma insists 'smartphone design will be increasingly shaped by user context', and that compact flagships no longer remain niche. There is consensus that a wider spectrum of choice is good for consumers.


Hans India
01-07-2025
- Hans India
Redmi Note 14 Pro 5G Series Gets a Stylish New Look in Champagne Gold
Xiaomi India, a global technology leader, today announced the launch of the Champagne Gold colour variant of the Redmi Note 14 Pro+ 5G and Redmi Note 14 Pro 5G, expanding the Redmi Note 14 Series with a timeless, elegant finish that pairs aesthetic appeal with everyday functionality. The new variant caters to users who value both standout style and all-round flagship-grade performance, whether they're navigating fast-paced routines, content creation, or immersive entertainment. Commenting on the launch, Mr. Anuj Sharma, Chief Marketing Officer, Xiaomi India, said: 'At its core, the Redmi Note Series has always aimed to deliver a well-rounded smartphone experience, one that combines performance, durability, and everyday reliability. With the new Champagne Gold variant, we're extending that philosophy into the realm of personal expression. This isn't just a new colour; it's a reflection of how users are increasingly viewing their devices as part of their identity. The Redmi Note 14 Pro+ 5G doesn't just look premium, it's built to stay that way, with an IP68 rating for real-world durability, a 6200mAh battery for lasting endurance, and a flagship-grade camera system. Powered by Xiaomi HyperOS, it unlocks seamless interconnectivity across our Human × Car × Home ecosystem. And with the new attractive pricing, it brings flagship-grade innovation and design to even more users, offering true value without compromise.' A New Aesthetic for Design-Led Users The introduction of Champagne Gold brings a fresh layer of sophistication to the Redmi Note 14 Pro Series, blending timeless aesthetics with everyday durability. It joins existing colours like Spectre Blue, Titan Black, and Phantom Purple vegan leather on the Redmi Note 14 Pro+ 5G, and Ivy Green, Titan Black, and the dual-tone Phantom Purple vegan leather edition on the Redmi Note 14 Pro 5G. With this expanded palette, users have more expressive options to match their device to their personal style, without compromising on performance. Built to Withstand Real-World Demands Built to handle more than just daily wear, the Redmi Note 14 Pro Series is designed for users who expect their smartphones to be as resilient as they are refined. Both devices feature a Corning® Gorilla® Glass Victus® 2 front, with the Redmi Note 14 Pro+ 5G further strengthened by a Gorilla® Glass 7i back, offering added resistance to drops and scratches. An IP68 rating ensures reliable protection against dust and water, making each device a dependable companion in a range of environments, from work commutes to weekend getaways. Setting a new standard in durability, the Redmi Note 14 Pro+ 5G is also India's first 5-Star rated smartphone by TÜV Rheinland, a certification that validates its performance across demanding benchmarks for safety, strength, and long-term reliability. It's a device built to endure, without compromising on everyday usability or premium design. Smarter Everyday Experiences with Android 15 and HyperOS 2 Running Android 15 with Xiaomi HyperOS 2 out of the box, the devices are built for smarter, more intuitive use across everyday life. Whether you're travelling abroad, attending a live session, or multitasking between apps, features like real-time language translation, live video subtitles, Gemini AI, and Circle to Search ensure seamless understanding, faster discovery, and effortless productivity. With four years of software updates, both models ensure a smooth and secure experience for years to come, giving users confidence in long-term performance and value. Immersive Display and Entertainment At the heart of the visual experience is a 6.67-inch AMOLED display designed for clarity and comfort in every scenario. With a sharp 1.5K resolution, smooth 120Hz refresh rate, and up to 3000 nits of peak brightness, the screen remains vibrant and responsive, whether you're watching content outdoors or scrolling late at night. Support for Dolby Vision® and Dolby Atmos® brings cinematic depth to streaming and audio, while the curved display on the Redmi Note 14 Pro 5G adds to the ergonomics, offering a more immersive and refined in-hand feel. Flagship-Grade Camera Systems Photography on the Redmi Note 14 Pro Series is built to deliver clarity, versatility, and creativity in every frame. The Redmi Note 14 Pro+ 5G features a 50MP Light Hunter 800 main sensor with Super OIS, supported by an 8MP ultra-wide lens and a 50MP 2.5x telephoto camera, making it ideal for capturing expansive landscapes, low-light moments, and detailed portraits with ease. The Redmi Note 14 Pro 5G comes equipped with a 50MP Sony LYT-600 sensor, delivering sharp, vibrant imagery across scenarios. With features like AI Bokeh and Dynamic Shots, both devices empower users to tell their stories with precision and depth. Built for Endurance Powering long days and demanding use cases, the Redmi Note 14 Pro+ 5G is equipped with a 6200mAh silicon carbon battery, the largest ever in a Xiaomi smartphone, designed for extended performance without compromise. Paired with 90W HyperCharge, it delivers rapid top-ups that keep pace with fast-moving routines. The Redmi Note 14 Pro 5G features a 5500mAh battery with 45W fast charging, striking a balance between lasting endurance and a slim, comfortable design built for everyday carry. Pricing and Availability Model Variant Old Price (₹) New Price (₹) Best Buy Price (₹) Redmi Note 14 Pro+ 5G 8GB + 128GB ₹29,999 ₹27,999 ₹26,999 8GB + 256GB ₹31,999 ₹29,999 ₹28,999 12GB + 512GB ₹34,999 ₹32,999 ₹31,999 Redmi Note 14 Pro 5G 8GB + 128GB ₹23,999 ₹22,999 ₹21,999 8GB + 256GB ₹25,999 ₹24,999 ₹23,999 The Champagne Gold variants of the Redmi Note 14 Pro+ 5G and Redmi Note 14 Pro 5G will be on sale starting July 1st, 2025, across , Amazon, Flipkart, and authorized Xiaomi retail stores in India. Launch Offers Include: ♦ ₹1,000 Instant Bank Discount on select credit & debit cards (HDFC Bank, SBI, Axis Bank, IDFC Bank, RBL) ♦ No Cost EMI for up to 9 months ♦ Downpayment EMI options via Xiaomi Easy Finance T&C apply. Availability may vary by channel and model.


Hans India
18-06-2025
- Hans India
Xiaomi India Launches Redmi Pad 2: Designed for Entertainment, Powered by Xiaomi HyperOS
Reinforcing its commitment to Innovation for All, Xiaomi India today announced the launch of the all-new Redmi Pad 2. Designed to meet the evolving needs of users across entertainment, learning, and everyday productivity, the series brings together the segment's best 27.94 cm 2.5K display, the largest 9000mAh battery, and a powerful MediaTek Helio G100 Ultra processor, all enhanced by the seamless experience of Xiaomi HyperOS 2. Built for life on the move, Redmi Pad 2 Series delivers dependable performance, all-day usage, and smooth integration within Xiaomi's connected ecosystem. Commenting on the launch, Anuj Sharma, Chief Marketing Officer, Xiaomi India, said, "At Xiaomi India, our focus is on delivering innovation that meets real user needs while bringing the best of technology to every price segment. The Redmi Pad 2 Series combines immersive visuals, reliable performance, and the intuitive experience of Xiaomi HyperOS in a design built for everyday use. With local manufacturing and long-term software support, the Redmi Pad 2 Series reflects our continued commitment to building the future of personal computing in India, while empowering users across entertainment, learning, and everyday productivity. Immersive visuals and rich sound Redmi Pad 2 Series is designed to elevate everyday digital experiences, offering the ideal blend of immersive entertainment and practical usability. The tablets feature a vibrant 27.94 cm 2.5K display with a 274 ppi pixel density, ensuring crisp visuals and sharp text across content types. A smooth 90Hz refresh rate and 16:10 aspect ratio make it equally suited for video streaming, reading, and productivity tasks. With 10-bit colour depth supporting 1.07 billion colors and up to 600 nits brightness in Outdoor Mode, users can enjoy vivid, detailed visuals across diverse lighting environments. TÜV Rheinland certifications for Low Blue Light, Flicker Free, and Circadian Friendly viewing further enhance eye comfort during extended use. Complementing the visual experience is a powerful quad-speaker setup with Dolby Atmos® and Hi-Res Audio support, creating rich, detailed soundscapes for music, movies, and more. Powered by Xiaomi HyperOS for seamless connected experiences Redmi Pad 2 Series is powered by Xiaomi HyperOS 2, delivering a connected experience that works effortlessly across Xiaomi smartphones and tablets. Features such as Call sync, and Shared clipboard enable users to answer phone calls, and move content between devices with ease. This level of interconnectivity supports Xiaomi's broader ecosystem vision, offering a consistent and intuitive experience across screens, whether at home, at work, or on the go. Dependable performance, built for everyday use Redmi Pad 2 Series is powered by the MediaTek G100 Ultra processor, built on and designed to handle both everyday tasks and entertainment with ease. Its octa-core architecture, featuring two Cortex-A76 performance cores and six Cortex-A55 efficiency cores, ensures smooth app usage, seamless video streaming, and responsive multitasking. Paired with Mali-G57 MC2 graphics, the tablets deliver dependable performance for casual gaming, creative apps, and video playback. Redmi Pad 2 Series offers fast data access and reduced loading times. With support for up to 16GB* RAM (8GB + 8GB virtual) and expandable storage up to 2TB, the tablets are ideal for users managing large files, media, or offline content. A large 9000mAh battery supports extended usage throughout the day, whether attending online classes, catching up on shows, or working on the go. Charging is quick and convenient with 18W fast charging support and a 15W charger included in the box. Design and connectivity tailored for India Built for users who need performance on the go, the Redmi Pad 2 Series combines slim form with practical durability. At just 7.36mm thin, both models easily slip into a backpack or handbag, making them ideal for travel, commutes, or classroom use. The Wi-Fi model features a sturdy full-metal body and weighs 510g, while the Wi-Fi + Cellular variant, at 519g, adds Dual SIM (Dual Standby) and GPS support, making it well-suited for users who need reliable, always-on connectivity wherever they are. An IP52 rating offers protection against light splashes and dust, while the inclusion of a USB Type-C port, 3.5mm headphone jack, and built-in mic ensures the tablets are ready for work, study, or entertainment anywhere. Capture and create with intuitive accessories Redmi Pad 2 Series is equipped with an 8MP rear camera and a 5MP front camera, offering clear results for everyday photography and smooth video calls while working or learning from home. For users who enjoy sketching, note-taking, or marking up documents, the tablets support the Redmi Smart Pen, designed for low-latency input and natural writing feel. To protect the device and enhance usability, the Redmi Pad 2 Cover offers 360° coverage along with smart wake and sleep support, and a built-in stand for hands-free viewing during meetings, classes, or entertainment. Pricing and availability:


NDTV
06-06-2025
- Politics
- NDTV
Chhattisgarh Finds Land To Build Houses For MLAs, Villagers Say Won't Leave
Quick Read Summary is AI generated, newsroom reviewed. Tension rises in Nakati village, Chhattisgarh, as 85 families protest government plans to take land for housing MLAs. Villagers claim ancestral rights and seek protection, while officials insist proper procedures are being followed. Raipur: A row is brewing at a village near Chhattisgarh's capital Raipur after the state government decided to build houses for 90 MLAs and officers. Under the wide shadow of a banyan tree at Nakati village, women were seen holding their children and old men carrying faded property papers. Some of the women held sticks as they sat in silence. They said it is for self-protection. At least 85 families at this village are on a dharna against the government order to take their land for building houses for MLAs and officers. The villagers say they have lived here for nearly 40 years. They have built walls with their own hands, and generations have played in the courtyards. Some of them showed government leases, while others showed funds they have received under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana to build what now might be taken away. A few villagers said it's their ancestral land. Nakati falls under the Dharsiwa assembly constituency which is represented by MLA Anuj Sharma. Mr Sharma said the government is following proper procedure and will not allow the villagers to suffer. "I have spoken to the villagers. No one in need will be harmed. We will ensure justice," he said. In government records, 58 acres of land in Nakati are listed as pasture land meant for cattle. The government has proposed this land to be used to build houses for 90 MLAs and officials - a new colony for power. Out of this, 32 acres are with 85 families who now face eviction notices. On paper, they are illegal occupants. Their plots range from 1,200 sqft to 20,000 sqft.


Deccan Herald
15-05-2025
- Health
- Deccan Herald
Experts call for united front against antimicrobial resistance
Dr Anuj Sharma, Technical and Team Focal Point for AMR at the WHO Country Office for India, explained that AMR not only threatens public health through increased healthcare costs, longer hospital stays, and higher mortality, but also undermines medical advancements and affects global GDP.