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India Today
2 days ago
- Automotive
- India Today
Traditional keys take a backseat as one in three Hyundai buyers opt for digital key
Hyundai Motor India Limited (HMIL) has reported that nearly one in three of its customers are choosing to enrol for its digital key feature, signalling a strong shift in buyer preference towards advanced, tech-driven conveniences in its debut on the Hyundai Alcazar in September 2024 and subsequent introduction on the Creta Electric in January 2025, the NFC-based digital key has achieved a notable 33 per cent adoption rate. The feature allows owners to replace traditional keys with a virtual one, stored securely on compatible smartphones, smartwatches, or an NFC does it work?Once set up through the Hyundai Bluelink app, the digital key enables customers to tap their device on the car's door handle to lock/unlock and place it on the wireless charging pad to start the vehicle. Owners can also share access with up to three people or seven devices at a time, a feature that 35 per cent of current Digital Key users are already utilising to give family members or friends access to their cars. Interestingly, iOS devices dominate usage, accounting for 68 per cent of Digital Key adoption, while Android devices make up the remaining 32 per on the growing customer preference, Unsoo Kim, Managing Director and CEO, HMIL, said: "At Hyundai Motor India, innovation is driven by purpose, offering meaningful solutions that elevate customer experience. As the first OEM to launch connected car technology in India back in 2019, we remain committed to democratizing premium features for Indian customers. The enthusiastic response to digital key reaffirms our belief in creating technology that adds real value to everyday life."Digital key convenienceThe digital key, powered by NFC (Near Field Communication), provides flexibility and security as access can be created, shared, or revoked anytime. It also eliminates concerns around misplacing or forgetting a physical key, enhancing peace of mind for both the Alcazar and Creta Electric now offering this functionality in select variants, Hyundai says the feature is gaining traction as a real-world convenience, not just a novelty. Beyond locking, unlocking, and starting the car, its ability to seamlessly integrate with smart devices and share access across multiple users has contributed to its growing company added that expanding the availability of digital key across more models is part of its future roadmap, as HMIL continues its push to bring advanced mobility technologies into mainstream segments in to Auto Today Magazine- Ends
Engadget
10-07-2025
- Business
- Engadget
Apple, Mastercard and Visa's antitrust lawsuit over payments has been dismissed
Apple, Mastercard and Visa have successfully dodged a lawsuit that claimed the companies were colluding to maintain the current status quo in point-of-sale-payment card services, Reuters reports. The original 2023 lawsuit filed by beverage retailer Mirage Wine and Spirits alleged that Apple was essentially accepting bribes to not develop its open payment network or open up the iPhone's NFC-based "tap to pay" functionality to competitors. The judge on the case ultimately dismissed it over a lack of evidence that Apple ever planned to offer its own payment network. Apple works with both Visa and Mastercard's payment networks to process transactions through Apple Pay. The company's relationship with the two financial services companies extends into its other financial products — the Apple Cash card in Apple Wallet is a Visa and the Apple Card credit card is a Mastercard — and has existed since the start. The New York Times reported in 2014 that Mastercard, Visa and American Express were all part of the original development of Apple Pay. The 2023 lawsuit claims that both Mastercard and Visa were paying Apple to maintain that relationship and their own dominance. The iPhone maker was "paid 15 basis points ( i.e. , 0.15 percent) on the value of all U.S. credit transactions and 0.5 cents ($0.005) on all U.S. debit," according to the lawsuit. Apple's reluctance to open up NFC tap-to-pay to third-party developers was allegedly another way the company maintained Mastercard and Visa's position and allowed them to drive up fees. However those claims were argued, it wasn't enough to convince the judge. He described them as "a slew of circumstantial allegations," according to Reuters , though he was at least open to the lawsuit being amended and refiled in the future. Since 2023, Apple has made at least one significant change to how Apple Pay and NFC payments work. As part of its compliance with the European Union's Digital Markets Act, Apple opened up NFC tap-to-pay transactions to any developer building their own contactless payments system, whether they're in Europe, the US or the UK.
Business Upturn
19-06-2025
- Business
- Business Upturn
Alipay+ Launches World's First Smart Glasses-Embedded Payment Solution
Singapore: Alipay+ enables world's first successful e-wallet payment transaction on Meizu StarV Snap smart glasses via AlipayHK. The new feature expands use case scenarios for the AR glasses industry leader, and creates new growth avenues for e-wallets and merchants. This adds to Alipay+'s payment innovation power suite, including Model Context Protocol (MCP)-powered AI payments and NFC-based integration of QR and card payments, among others. After Alipay debuted a smart glasses payment solution with Rokid in China, Alipay+, the unified wallet gateway service under Ant International, announced the Alipay+ smart glasses-embedded payment solution for global e-wallets. In collaboration with Meizu, a global industry leader, Alipay+ completed the world's first real-world smart glasses-embedded e-wallet payment transaction in Hong Kong. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: The world's first successful e-wallet payment transaction was completed on Meizu StarV Snap smart glasses via AlipayHK The successful transaction on Meizu StarV Snap smart glasses with AlipayHK, Hong Kong's leading superapp, marks another milestone in Alipay+'s advance at the forefront of global mobile payment innovation. Users are able to make seamless payments with QR scans or voice commands from their smart glasses, backed by Alipay+'s AI-powered voice interface, intent recognition, and voiceprint authentication technologies. The new feature will roll out to Alipay+ global partner e-wallets in 2025 upon the integration of Alipay+ upgraded tech suite for smart glasses. In April 2025, Meizu officially announced the global pioneer of offline AI glasses-enabled mobile payment function powered by Alipay+. Alipay+'s advanced payment SDK solutions are integrated into all new Meizu smart glasses, supported by Meizu's industry-leading optical waveguide display technology, voice noise reduction and capture technology, and camera-based code scanning technology. Alipay+ is accelerating new innovations to support e-wallets' transition into the future of seamless commerce. Today, Alipay+ connects over 1.7 bn user accounts on 36 global e-wallets, national QR schemes and banking apps to 100 million merchants across 70+ core markets. With one integration, wallet partners can access Alipay+'s expanding toolkits for customer engagement and business growth. Among these, Alipay+ now integrates QR-based and card payments via a global NFC solution. It also enables a full range of agentic AI features including MCP-based AI payments built on Alipay+ GenAI Cockpit, an AI-as-a-Service platform for fintechs. 'The offline payment function of smart glasses launched overseas by Meizu and Alipay+ has set a new technological benchmark for the industry,' said Peng Guo, General Manager of the XR Division of Meizu. 'The innovation in the payment scenario has enhanced the practicality and appeal of smart glasses and also promoted the progress and development of the AR glasses industry. We hope this function will bring more convenient experiences to users.' 'We are grateful to work with industry leaders like Meizu to pioneer smart glasses-embedded payment solutions. By unlocking payment capabilities, smart glasses will rapidly transform into the next-gen personal device like the mobile phone,' said Jiangming Yang, Chief Innovation Officer of Ant International. 'We look forward to supporting more industry partners with one integration into Alipay+'s premium wallet ecosystem across global markets, to help them build broader user scenarios and achieve growth.' About Alipay+ Ant International's Alipay+ is a unified wallet gateway with cross-border payment and digitization services that help connect global merchants to consumers. Consumers enjoy seamless payments, a broad choice of deals and the convenience of digital services using their preferred payment app/e-wallet while travelling abroad. Many small and medium-sized businesses already use Alipay+ digital tools to enhance efficiency and achieve omni-channel growth. About Meizu Meizu is a global technology company, with AI eco-products. It contains StarV smart glasses and StarAuto smart cars. And also the Meizu smartphone, which has been continuously innovated for more than 20 years and attracted more than 30 million Meizu fans, with a strong brand influence among global consumers. With FlymeAIOS as its core, Meizu seamlessly integrates smartphones, XR, and smart cars, establishing a smart mobile ecosystem that combines hardware and software. With the advancement of technology, the interconnection of cars and smartphones leads the industry into the era of intelligence and ecosystem 3.0. With deep technological expertise in multiple industries, Meizu is recognized as a leader in smart ecosystems. For more information, please visit the official website: View source version on Disclaimer: The above press release comes to you under an arrangement with Business Wire. Business Upturn takes no editorial responsibility for the same. Ahmedabad Plane Crash
Business Wire
05-06-2025
- Business
- Business Wire
HqO Appoints Kunal Lala as EMEA Leader, Accelerates European Growth Strategy
BOSTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- HqO, the world's leading real estate experience platform, announced today that it has appointed Kunal Lala as Senior Managing Director—a key step in accelerating the company's growth and customer partnerships across EMEA. This strategic hire reinforces HqO's commitment to deliver a global platform that directly addresses both tenant and investor needs. This appointment positions HqO to deliver scalable operational excellence as markets continue to evolve and change in response to rising tenant expectations, operational demands, and regulatory changes. Lala brings deep experience in the real estate industry and served as Head of Sales and Partnerships at Spaceflow, where he refined the company's go-to-market, sales, and account management strategies. In his new role, he will lead HqO's expansion across EMEA, execute the company's European roadmap, provide in-person support to clients, and continue to build strong relationships across the industry. 'The European market, in particular, represents tremendous growth potential for HqO because the CRE market there is increasingly focused on creating workplaces that foster connection and creativity, recognizing that today's tenants expect more than simply spaces in which to work,' said Chase Garbarino, CEO of HqO. 'Kunal's leadership will help us scale our footprint throughout Europe, where the market is primed for integrated solutions that meet tenant expectations and business outcomes.' Today's announcement builds on HqO's continued investment in the EU, including the acquisitions of Office App, Symbiosy, and Leesman — the global leader in measuring and analyzing employee workplace experience. These strategic acquisitions have expanded HqO's product capabilities, data insights, and local market expertise, laying the groundwork for continued growth across the continent. Recent deployments—like Central Park in Dublin, Campus Boulogne in Paris, and Airport Plaza in Brussels—showcase how tenants now use the HqO mobile app to seamlessly connect with high-value amenities, personalized services, and a dynamic community calendar, transforming how they engage with their workplace. Other recent milestones include the successful mobile access roadshow, which engaged customers across EMEA and demonstrated HqO's commitment to client success through hands-on demonstrations of its NFC-based mobile access capabilities. "We're at a tipping point in commercial real estate, where the winners will be those who understand that experience is the new currency of value. There has never been a more exciting time to help shape the future of European real estate with HqO, as commercial real estate owners and operators across the region are recognizing that the workplace of the future is human-centered, digitally connected, and operationally intelligent,' added Lala. From local flexible workplace requirements to ESG-driven operations, HqO is focused on delivering tools that align with the top priorities of EMEA CRE owners and operators: Flex Space Enablement: As flexible leasing and hybrid work reshape real estate in Europe, HqO supports landlords with tools to manage memberships, bookings, billing, and access—all in one place. Seamless, Connected Workplace Experiences: Tenants expect more than access—they value convenience, personalization, and a sense of community. HqO's platform enables intuitive navigation of spaces, amenities, and services across the portfolio. Smart Buildings & ESG Performance: With rising pressure to meet environmental targets and run buildings more efficiently, HqO supports landlords with smart building solutions that optimise performance and align with ESG goals. The announcement also builds on HqO's spring product release, which introduced the industry's first unified platform that connects tenant and investor lifecycles—driving smarter decisions, stronger relationships, and operational excellence at scale. About HqO: HqO is leading the transformation of the way people experience real estate. Through its Real Estate Experience (REX) Platform, a powerful and dynamic suite of applications and services, HqO has powered 1 billion square feet at over 1,500 properties across 32 countries. The world's most innovative organizations rely on HqO to drive operational excellence by maximizing and boosting tenant and employee acquisition, retention, and engagement.
Hindustan Times
04-06-2025
- Automotive
- Hindustan Times
Tata Harrier EV takes electric SUV game to next level. What makes it unique?
Tata Motors has equipped the newly launched Harrier EV electric SUV with a plethora of advanced technology-aided features, and many of them are segment-leading, which makes it unique. Here is a quick look at the advanced technology-driven features of the all-new Tata Harrier EV. Tata Motors has been enjoying the lion's share in the Indian passenger vehicle market for quite some time with its range of electric cars. However, lately, the homegrown auto giant has witnessed its market share shrinking in the segment owing to rising competition from other players. However, with the launch of the new Harrier EV, the OEM aims to ramp up the game. 1 Tata Harrier EV: Reintroduces AWD tech Tata Harrier EV is projected by the OEM as a power-packed off-roading vehicle, not just another SUV with an electric powertrain. The Harrier EV brings back the All-wheel Drive (AWD) technology to the carmaker's product portfolio. The OEM dubs it as Quad Wheel Drive (QWD). The SUV gets dual electric motors, each powering one axle and sending power to all four wheels, allowing the Harrier EV to tackle treacherous terrains without much hassle. The front electric motor generates 138 bhp peak power, while the rear motor churns out 234 bhp peak power. The electric powertrain also pumps out 504 Nm of maximum torque. It gets multiple driving modes, which are - Boost, Sport City & Eco. 2 Tata Harrier EV: Promises performance Tata Motors claims the Harrier EV is not just another electric SUV, but offers a supercar-like performance. Besides the dual electric motor and AWD, the Harrier EV promises a quick sprinting capability. It claims to be capable of accelerating 0-100 kmph in 6.3 seconds, which makes it pretty fast. Tata claims that the SUV gets a burst of torque and power in demanding situations, enabling it to accelerate quickly. 3 Tata Harrier EV: Can go offroad Tata Harrier EV has been dubbed a capable off-roader by the automaker. The OEM has showcased its capability off-roading by showing a video of the vehicle climbing Elephant Rock in Kerala. It gets six different terrain response modes - Normal, Rock Crawl, Mud Ruts, Snow & Grass, Sand and Custom. The off-road assist system onboard the vehicle offers enhanced traction and control on challenging terrains. 5 Tata Harrier EV: Enhanced digital accessibility Tata Motors has earned quite some respect from the car buyers for bringing high-end technology-enabled features in its cars, and the Harrier EV is the latest addition to that list. The electric SUV gets enhanced digital accessibility through Digi Access, which makes the user's presence felt, with proximity-based lock and unlock. The remote key fob allows to perform 11 different actions, while there is an NFC-based smart card as well. Also, the dedicated smartphone application for the Harrier EV makes the user's phone a remote for the vehicle, allowing them to perform various functions and enabling them to share access to the car with multiple persons. 6 Tata Harrier EV: More digital screen Tata Harrier EV gets a more digital screen space in the form of a 14.52-inch touchscreen infotainment system with a wide range of connectivity options, a fully digital 10.24-inch instrument cluster with blind-spot view monitor. The blind-spot view monitor display can be seen in the touchscreen infotainment system as well. There is an HD rearview mirror with DVR as well that gives a full view of the rear of the vehicle and records everything as well. 7 Tata Harrier EV: Range polygon to address range anxiety One unique feature of the Harrier EV is that it shows a range polygon, which allows users to check the range estimation radius using navigation maps. Tata Motors claims that this feature has been introduced to the Harrier EV to address the range anxiety, which is related to electric vehicles. 8 Tata Harrier EV: V2L and V2V technology Tata Harrier EV comes with V2L (Vehicle to Load) and V2V (Vehicle to Vehicle) technology. The V2L technology allows the user to charge various appliances and gadgets using the electric SUV's battery power, while the V2V allows the user to charge other electric vehicles using the onboard battery pack. Both the V2V and V2L technologies are found in the Tata Nexon EV as well as in the Tata Curvv EV. 9 Tata Harrier EV: Powered Boss Mode for rear occupants' comfort The Tata Harrier EV gets Powered Boss Mode inside the cabin, which is meant to enhance a luxurious experience for the rear occupants. The Powered Boss Mode allows rear seat passengers to move the co-driver seat through powered buttons, allowing more leg space and knee room. Enhancing rear occupant comfort are features like comfort headrest, rear armrest with cup holder, rear AC vents, rear sunshade and 65W Type-C USB charging port. 10 Tata Harrier EV: Front occupant comfort Tata Harrier EV comes with a six-way adjustable driver seat and a four-way adjustable co-driver seat. Also, the front seats come with a ventilation feature. Other features include a wireless charging dock, sliding armrest with cooled under storage, etc. Check out Upcoming EV Cars in India. First Published Date:
