Iranian retaliation in the Gulf has exposed weaknesses in US missile defence systems, including THAAD and Patriot batteries, which struggled to intercept large-scale missile and drone attacks. Reports suggest radar damage and interception shortfalls amid high-volume strikes. The situation has raised concerns about defence reliability, and escalating risks.
Elon Musk was due to be questioned by French prosecutors over investigations into X (social media platform) and its AI chatbot Grok. The probe involves alleged data misuse and content issues. Musk denies claims, calling them politically motivated. The case may strain US-Europe tech relations further amid regulatory scrutiny of Big Tech.
Xiaomi has introduced its Mijia central air conditioner in China, featuring dual airflow design for balanced cooling and heating. It offers high energy efficiency and smart sensing technology that adjusts airflow based on presence. Integrated with Xiaomi’s ecosystem, it supports app and voice control. Priced around 8,999 yuan, global availability remains uncertain.
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 is now available at a massive discount on Flipkart, making the premium foldable more affordable. Originally priced around ₹1.64 lakh, it can be bought near ₹1 lakh with bank and exchange offers. The deal includes EMI options, boosting accessibility for buyers seeking a high-end foldable smartphone experience.
➢UN Chinese Language Day, ➢Israel Memorial Day, ➢1889: Birth of German dictator Adolf Hitler, who was the German chancellor from 1933 to 1945, ➢1914: Birth of Jnanpith Awardee Gopinath Mohanty, novelist, ➢1950: Birthday of AP CM and TDP chief Chandrababu, ➢1972: Birth of film actress Anjala Zaveri, and ➢1992: Death of Tollywood’s playback singer MS […]
Delhi is planning to become a semiconductor hub with a new policy focused on manufacturing, research, and innovation. The government aims to build a strong ecosystem by promoting AI centres, supporting MSMEs, and improving logistics. The move aligns with India’s broader push to boost domestic chip production and reduce dependence on global supply chains.
The Google Pixel 8a is now available at a massive discount, dropping to around ₹23,499 from its original ₹52,999 launch price. The deal offers over 50% savings on the popular smartphone. It features a 6.1-inch OLED display, Tensor G3 chip, 64MP camera, and Android 14, making it a strong budget-friendly option currently.
In a major robotics milestone, humanoid robots in Beijing’s half-marathon completed the 21.1 km race faster than elite human runners. The winning robot finished in 50 minutes and 26 seconds, surpassing the human world record. Developed with advanced AI and cooling systems, the event highlighted rapid progress in China’s robotics technology and autonomous mobility.
On April 19, 1975, India marked a key milestone with the launch of its first satellite, Aryabhata, named after the ancient astronomer. Built to advance space research in X-ray astronomy, solar physics, and aeronomics, it symbolized India’s entry into the space age. Though launched from the USSR, it laid the foundation for ISRO’s global rise.
➢National North Dakota Day in the US, ➢1882: Death of top scientist Charles Darwin, ➢1906: Death of Nobel laureate Pierre Curie, ➢1956: Birthday of YS Vijayamma, ➢1957: Birthday of Reliance CEO Mukesh Ambani, ➢1969: Death of freedom fighter Sardar Gouthu Latchanna, ➢1975: India’s 1st space satellite, ‘Aryabhata,’ and ➢1990: Birthday of actress Esha Rebba.
NASA’s new nighttime satellite map shows Bihar and Uttar Pradesh as some of Earth’s brightest spots. Analyzing nine years of data, the study revealed a massive increase in artificial light across northern India. Social media users expressed shock, praising the region’s improved electricity and growth. Experts say the data helps track global energy use.
CheQ and AU Small Finance Bank have launched India’s first LED credit card. The card features an embedded light that glows during tap-to-pay transactions, providing instant visual confirmation. It uses NFC technology to draw power from the payment terminal, so no battery is needed. Applications open on the CheQ app starting April 28, 2026.
ISRO Chairman V. Narayanan announced that the G20 climate satellite will launch in 2027. India is also working toward landing a human on the moon by 2040. Along with commercial success in launching global satellites, ISRO is developing a specialised titanium vessel for the Samudrayaan deep ocean mission to explore the sea.
Observed on April 18, World Cultural Heritage Day celebrates the richness of human history, traditions, and monuments across the globe. It highlights the importance of preserving ancient sites, art, and cultural diversity for future generations. The day also encourages communities to protect heritage from threats like urbanization and climate change.
Meta Platforms, parent company of Facebook, is set to preparing a global workforce reduction. In the first phase, 10% of employees, nearly 8,000 staff, may be laid off by next month. Additional restructuring is also expected later this year, signaling continued cost-cutting steps as the tech giant adjusts its global operations amid changing market conditions.