Underwater robots, including AUVs and ROVs, are revolutionizing ocean exploration by operating in harsh environments where humans cannot. While communication underwater has been a significant challenge, advancements by companies like Skana Robotics are enhancing coordination among these devices, allowing for safer, faster, and more efficient scientific research and industrial applications in marine environments.

Google has integrated its vibe-coding tool, Opal, into the Gemini web app, simplifying AI development by allowing users to create mini applications through natural language prompts. This no-code approach democratizes AI creation, expanding accessibility for professionals, students, and businesses, while positioning Gemini as a competitive AI workspace.

Google has launched Gemini 3 Flash, its latest AI model, as the default across its applications to enhance everyday user experience. Optimized for speed and cost, it outperforms its predecessor and rivals while maintaining high performance. This strategic move aims to establish Google as a leader in practical AI solutions amid competition from OpenAI.

India has launched DHRUVA-64, its first fully indigenous 64-bit microprocessor, marking a significant advancement in its pursuit of technological self-reliance and a secure semiconductor ecosystem. This development reduces dependence on foreign processors, enhances national security, and positions India as a growing player in advanced technology, despite challenges in scaling production.

Meta has updated its AI-powered smart glasses, introducing features that enhance hearing in noisy environments and offer visual-based music playback through Spotify. Targeted initially at users in the U.S. and Canada, these innovations aim to improve everyday communication and integrate technology seamlessly into daily life, while also addressing privacy concerns.

In 2025, India ranks third globally in AI unicorns, following the US and China, marking its emergence as a key player in AI innovation. Factors contributing to this include a strong talent pool, a supportive startup ecosystem, and a focus on global markets. Despite challenges, India's advancements in AI signal a growing global influence.

Sam Altman and Elon Musk co-founded OpenAI as a nonprofit to promote safe AI. However, the organization transitioned into a capped-profit entity and developed into a $500 billion AI leader with significant global influence. Their rivalry now drives rapid advancements in technology, impacting multiple sectors and shaping future economic dynamics.

“Jana Gana Mana,” India’s National Anthem, composed by Rabindranath Tagore in 1911, symbolizes unity amid diversity. Adopted in 1950, it reflects the dreams and aspirations of 1.4 billion people. The anthem serves as a reminder for respect, discipline, and patriotism, calling the youth to embody its values in daily life.

In December 2025, India's Department of Telecommunications attempted to mandate the pre-installation of the Sanchar Saathi app on smartphones, prompting privacy concerns and backlash from manufacturers. Consequently, the directive was revoked. The app remains available for voluntary download, emphasizing user choice and privacy amid ongoing cybersecurity debates in India.

IndiGo, India’s largest airline, is grappling with a severe operational crisis, leading to over 2,000 flight cancellations. This has caused significant passenger distress, with many travelers stranded at major airports. Factors include crew shortages and new safety regulations. The crisis highlights vulnerabilities in India's aviation sector, prompting calls for systemic reforms.

At Amazon's re:Invent 2025, Blue Origin unveiled a groundbreaking energy device powered by moon dust, designed primarily by AI from Istari Digital, backed by Eric Schmidt. This innovation optimizes energy generation for lunar operations, showcasing a new era in engineering that emphasizes AI and human collaboration, promising sustainable space technology advancements.

Amazon is launching its AI-powered coding tool, Kiro, for free to attract startups before they commit to competitors like GitHub Copilot. Kiro, integrated with AWS, offers features such as auto-generating code and debugging suggestions. This strategy aims to secure developer loyalty and encourage long-term reliance on AWS infrastructure.

Tushar Shaw, a 19-year-old Indian engineering student, developed Perceivia—AI-powered smart glasses for the visually impaired. These glasses assist with real-time object detection and offer voice guidance, enhancing users' independence and mobility. Combining empathy with technology, Shaw aims to bridge accessibility gaps, empowering millions of visually impaired individuals.

Simular AI has launched an advanced autonomous AI agent capable of managing computer tasks like a human, enhancing productivity and workflow automation across various industries. This technology, which adapts in real-time without technical setup, raises questions around privacy and security but promises significant operational efficiency for businesses while complementing human roles.

AWS' re:Invent 2025 showcased a significant shift toward enterprise-grade AI, featuring a new AI training chip, expanded AgentCore for continuous automation, and the introduction of advanced Frontier agents. Notably, the AI Factory allows companies to deploy AI within private data centers. AWS is positioning itself as a key player in the evolving AI landscape.

Apple appointed Amar Subramanya as Vice President of AI, replacing John Giannandrea amid growing competition in AI technology. Subramanya, with experience from Google and Microsoft, faces key challenges, including catching up on delayed AI features and restoring confidence in leadership. His success is crucial for Apple's future in AI innovation.

Alibaba has launched its $500 Quark AI Glasses in China, directly challenging Meta's smart glasses. Featuring real-time translation, voice control, and seamless app integration, these glasses aim to be everyday tools and enhance user productivity. This launch marks Alibaba's vision for leading in the burgeoning AI wearables market.

Abu Dhabi has launched a fully driverless robotaxi service by partnering with Uber and WeRide, marking a significant advancement in autonomous transportation in the Middle East. Passengers can book rides via the Uber app without a human driver. This initiative aims to enhance mobility, safety, and sustainability while boosting the UAE's tech economy.

On November 25, 2025, Google partnered with Accel to support early-stage AI startups in India, aligning with Sundar Pichai’s vision of positioning India as a global AI leader. The initiative aims to provide seed funding, mentorship, and resources, fostering innovation in various sectors while strengthening India's tech ecosystem for future growth.

xAI, founded by Elon Musk, has become the first customer of a new 500-megawatt data center in Saudi Arabia, backed by the state venture Humain and Nvidia's hardware. This partnership emphasizes Saudi Arabia's ambitions in AI infrastructure, leveraging its energy resources and strategic investments, marking a shift towards infrastructure as a competitive advantage.

Yubi Group, a fast-growing Indian fintech platform, has secured ₹411 crore in funding to drive global expansion and enhance AI technology. The investment, led by EvolutionX, supports plans to enter markets like Southeast Asia and the U.S., improve AI-driven lending solutions, and strengthen financial infrastructure, despite facing competition and regulatory challenges.

As energy costs rise, some Americans are repurposing Bitcoin mining heat for home and industrial heating. Innovations include heaters that mine Bitcoin simultaneously, potentially offsetting costs. However, skepticism remains due to profitability and regulatory challenges. Still, it offers a glimpse of future energy reuse in the AI era.

Blue Origin's New Glenn rocket achieved a significant milestone by landing its booster on a drone ship and successfully deploying NASA's Mars-bound payload, marking it as the second company after SpaceX to accomplish such feats. The landing enhances Blue Origin's position to compete in the commercial launch market, emphasizing reusability and efficiency for future missions.

Private equity worldwide confronts a crisis from "zombie companies" that drain resources and hinder economic growth. These firms can't service debts and are propped up by reluctant investors due to reputational risks. Rising interest rates and global capital scarcity worsen the situation. Reforms in restructuring and regulatory practices are essential to revitalize markets.

The Kenko Life, a Bengaluru-based health-first food company founded by Neeraj Kumar and Vivek Chandran, has successfully raised seed funding to strengthen its foundation and drive its next phase of growth. The funding round was led by Rainmatter, Zerodha’s health-focused investment arm, along with participation from Aniketh Jain, Co-founder of Kaleyra. The company’s earlier investment came from R. Raghunathan, Co-founder of Prizm Payment Services (now Hitachi Payment Services) and OPC Asset Solutions.