Pocket FM winds down microdrama to focus on audio dramas, overseas market

Audio entertainment firm Pocket FM is shutting down its microdrama vertical, Pocket TV, to concentrate on its core audio dramas and international expansion. This strategic shift precedes a potential public listing, as the company prioritizes profitability. While short video dramas are booming in India, Pocket FM is returning to its strengths in audio, where it has established content and monetization.

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Tech entrepreneurs seeking the next AI frontier are pivoting from chatbots to 'world models'

AI is evolving beyond text-based chatbots, with researchers now focusing on "world models." These advanced systems aim to teach AI to understand and interact with the physical world, much like humans do. This shift is attracting significant investment, with a new generation of entrepreneurs and prominent scientists exploring how AI can learn spatial and temporal structures, paving the way for smarter robots and more immersive virtual environments.

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AI risks spark 30% surge in India cybersecurity spends as enterprises ramp up defences

Corporate India is witnessing a significant surge in cybersecurity spending, up 30% year-on-year, as businesses race to safeguard data and AI systems. Even traditionally less-invested sectors like manufacturing are digitizing aggressively. This trend, driven by AI's expanding attack surface and increasing regulatory pressure from bodies like CERT-In, is making cybersecurity a crucial, ongoing operational expense for enterprises.

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India ranks 13th globally in QS World Future Skills Index 2027, emerges as a leading AI-ready economy

India ranks 13th globally in the QS World Future Skills Index 2027, highlighting its strong readiness for an AI-driven economy. The country excels in Future of Work readiness, ranking fifth worldwide, supported by its vast digital workforce and economic growth. However, the report identifies significant skills gaps and graduate quality challenges that could hinder long-term competitiveness. QS recommends strengthening higher education, expanding industry-aligned skills development, and accelerating AI, digital, and green talent creation to sustain growth.

from Latest Education news - Board Exam Results, Admit Cards, Exam Paper Analysis and Question Papers | Times of India
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Mark Zuckerberg directed Meta to create a prediction markets app: NYT

Meta is reportedly developing a new app, codenamed 'Arena,' designed to function like prediction markets such as Polymarket and Kalshi. Initially, it will likely use a points system, with the possibility of real-money wagering later. This move taps into the growing popularity of prediction markets, which have seen significant interest during the U.S. presidential election.

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Chevron signs pact with Microsoft for powering its Texas data centre

Chevron and Microsoft have partnered for a 20-year deal to power a Texas data center. The Kilby facility will supply 2.67 gigawatts using GE Vernova and Solar Turbines technology, mitigating grid impact. This collaboration highlights the immense energy needs for AI development, with Chevron leveraging its natural gas resources to meet this growing demand competitively.

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Dealmaking stays strong as startup M&A momentum carries into 2026

Indian startups are experiencing a surge in M&A exits, particularly in consumer, fintech, and ecommerce sectors, signalling a robust recovery in dealmaking. Major acquisitions by L'Oréal and Marico have been the latest in this trend, with strategic buyers increasingly seeking to integrate new capabilities.

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