Top tech and startup stories this week

Welcome to a new edition of ETtech Unwrapped – our weekend newsletter packed with the most important stories this week. Let’s take a look.

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Civil society seeks rollback of DPDP changes to RTI Act

Over 30 civil society groups launched a campaign to revoke a provision in the Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act that amends the RTI Act. They argue it limits access to crucial information, hindering transparency, accountability, and media freedom, while also threatening privacy rights and government oversight.

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Leap of faith: Spiritual apps on global quest

Devotional apps like AppsForBharat, Vama.App, and Utsav expand globally, targeting the Indian diaspora with digital rituals and ecommerce. Fueled by Maha Kumbh’s surge, they drive growth through engagement and venture capital funding.

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Eye on AI, tech companies rejig top deck, plan structural overhaul

India’s IT services sector is undergoing leadership and structural changes due to AI’s rising influence and a tough business environment. Several companies appointed new CEOs, revamped roles, and restructured operations to enhance efficiency and remain competitive.

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Fintech sees early green shoots as growth-stage deals pick up

The fintech investment landscape is reviving, with growth-stage deals attracting over $550 million in 2025. Regulatory clarity, emerging wealth-tech opportunities, and major IPOs from firms like PhonePe and Groww are boosting investor confidence in the sector.

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‘Meta will launch community notes-based fact checker in the US first’, says company's senior executive

Meta will replace third-party fact-checking with community notes in the US first, delaying global rollout until 2026. Meta’s Joel Kaplan emphasised AI innovation, regulatory clarity, and India’s potential in open-source AI development.

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AI influencers are here: Turning social media into profit

Since ChatGPT's 2022 release, AI-focused creators have surged on social media, sharing insights and content on tools, models, and AI developments. Many have turned this into profitable ventures, earning through newsletters, masterclasses, and brand collaborations. Platforms like X and LinkedIn offer good opportunities, especially for niche, professional audiences.

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