ASUS launches 2 powerful handheld gaming devices in India

**ASUS Launches Two Powerful Handheld Gaming Devices in India**

*By Dwaipayan Roy | Oct 07, 2025, 08:04 PM*

ASUS has officially launched its highly anticipated ROG Xbox Ally series of handheld gaming devices in India. The lineup includes two models: the standard ROG Xbox Ally and the more advanced ROG Xbox Ally X. Both devices are now available for pre-order through ASUS stores, eShop, Amazon, and Vijay Sales, with deliveries set to begin from October 16.

**Gaming Revolution: A Collaboration Between ASUS ROG and Microsoft Xbox**

The new devices represent a significant leap in portable gaming, co-developed by ASUS’s Republic of Gamers (ROG) division and Microsoft’s Xbox team. Arnold Su, VP of Consumer and Gaming PC at ASUS India, highlighted that the ROG Xbox Ally series is designed to enhance mobile gaming experiences for gamers in India by combining powerful computing capabilities with portability. This approach allows users to enjoy unrestricted gaming on the go without compromising performance.

**Design Inspired by Xbox Wireless Controller**

Both the ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X feature a design influenced by the Xbox Wireless Controller, ensuring familiarity for console gamers. They sport contoured grips, Hall Effect analog triggers, HD haptics, and customizable rear buttons, all aimed at delivering an immersive and comfortable gameplay experience even during extended sessions.

**Impressive Tech Specifications**

Powering these handhelds are AMD’s Ryzen Z2 processors, optimized for compact gaming devices:

– **ROG Xbox Ally X**: Equipped with the Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme processor featuring a dedicated Neural Processing Unit for enhanced AI-driven performance. It offers 24GB of LPDDR5X RAM, a 1TB PCIe SSD, and an 80Wh battery to support long gaming sessions.

– **Standard ROG Xbox Ally**: Comes with the Ryzen Z2 A processor, 16GB LPDDR5X RAM, 512GB SSD, and a 60Wh battery.

Both models support Radeon’s FSR, RSR, and AFMF technologies for smoother graphics and improved frame rates. Additionally, they feature a 7.0-inch Full HD IPS display with a 120Hz refresh rate, AMD FreeSync Premium support, and durable Corning Gorilla Glass Victus protection.

**Robust Connectivity and Portability**

The ROG Xbox Ally X provides a range of connectivity options, including USB 4 and USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports, DisplayPort 2.1, Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.4, and a UHS-II microSD card slot for expanded storage and accessory support. ASUS has carefully balanced performance with portability, with the Ally X weighing 715 grams and the base model slightly lighter at 670 grams.

**Pricing and Exclusive Pre-Order Offers**

The ROG Xbox Ally is priced at ₹69,990, while the premium ROG Xbox Ally X is available for ₹1,14,990. ASUS is offering exclusive benefits for early buyers: the first 100 customers to pre-book the ROG Xbox Ally X will receive a reward package valued at ₹16,947. This bundle includes a ROG Slash Sling Bag and a one-year Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription, available for just ₹499.

With the launch of the ROG Xbox Ally series, ASUS looks to redefine portable gaming in India, delivering powerful performance and ergonomic design tailored for the gaming community. Pre-orders are now open ahead of the official shipping date on October 16.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/science/asus-rog-xbox-ally-series-launched-in-india-check-prices/story

Your asthma inhaler might not be good for the environment

**Your Asthma Inhaler Might Not Be Good for the Environment**
*By Dwaipayan Roy | Oct 07, 2025, 08:03 pm*

A recent study has revealed that inhalers used to treat asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) significantly contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. Conducted by scientists from the University of California and Harvard University, the research found that these devices produce annual emissions equivalent to those of over half a million petrol-powered cars in the US alone.

The study’s findings were published in the *Journal of the American Medical Association* and highlight an often-overlooked environmental impact of common medical treatments.

### Metered-Dose Inhalers: The Biggest Culprit

The research examined global warming pollution from three types of inhalers between 2014 and 2024. It found that metered-dose inhalers (MDIs), which use hydrofluoroalkane (HFA) propellants to deliver medication, are the most damaging. These devices accounted for a staggering 98% of inhaler-related emissions over the decade.

In total, US patients with commercial insurance and government programs such as Medicaid and Medicare produced an estimated 24.9 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent during this period—highlighting a significant environmental footprint.

### Eco-Friendly Alternatives Exist but Are Not Widely Used

Unlike metered-dose inhalers, dry powder inhalers (DPIs) and soft mist inhalers do not use propellants. DPIs rely on a patient’s breath to release medicine, while soft mist inhalers convert liquid medication into a fine spray. Both alternatives have a much lower environmental impact.

William Feldman, lead author from UCLA, emphasized that only a small portion of patients actually require metered-dose inhalers for their treatment. Despite this, the adoption of these greener alternatives remains limited.

### Barriers to Adoption: Insurance and Market Challenges

Feldman pointed out that most patients could switch to dry powder or soft mist inhalers. However, insurance coverage and market barriers have slowed their uptake in the United States.

For instance, a dry-powder version of albuterol—the most commonly used inhaler drug—is available but typically not covered by insurance. Additionally, budesonide-formoterol, a drug widely sold in dry powder form across Europe, is not presently available in the US market.

### Calling for Policy and Pricing Reform

Feldman stressed that this research is not about blaming patients but rather a call for policy reform to make lower-emission inhalers more accessible. A related commentary in *JAMA* by Alexander Rabin of the University of Michigan echoed this sentiment, urging insurers and policymakers to ensure that environmentally friendly inhalers are affordable and accessible to everyone.

As awareness grows about the environmental impact of medical devices, policy changes and improved insurance coverage could play critical roles in reducing the carbon footprint of asthma and COPD treatments while maintaining patient care quality.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/science/asthma-inhalers-pollute-as-much-as-half-a-million-cars/story

After a month, JLR to resume manufacturing cars from tomorrow

**JLR to Resume Manufacturing Cars Starting Tomorrow Following Cyberattack**

*By Dwaipayan Roy | Oct 07, 2025, 04:23 PM*

Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) has announced a phased resumption of production at its UK manufacturing facilities, starting tomorrow. This follows over a month-long halt caused by a cyberattack in late August that disrupted the company’s global manufacturing and retail operations.

**An Important Step in Recovery**

Adrian Mardell, JLR’s outgoing CEO, described the restart as an “important moment” in the company’s recovery process. While acknowledging there is still significant work ahead, Mardell emphasized that JLR is now firmly on the path to recovery.

To aid this process, JLR has introduced a new short-term financing scheme designed to provide upfront cash to its suppliers, helping them manage cash flows as production ramps up again.

**Phased Restart Across Key Facilities**

The phased production restart will begin at JLR’s West Midlands sites, including the engine plant in Wolverhampton and the battery assembly facility in Hams Hall near Birmingham. Key stamping plants located in Castle Bromwich and Solihull will also resume operations.

In addition, the body shop, paint shop, and logistics center at Solihull vehicle manufacturing plant will restart. However, the restart at the Halewood plant on Merseyside remains pending further updates.

**Global Production Updates**

JLR’s vehicle production in Nitra, Slovakia, is set to resume soon. Meanwhile, the Range Rover and Range Rover Sport production lines at Solihull are expected to restart later this week. Some employees have already returned to work at the Wolverhampton site as of Monday.

**Supporting Suppliers with New Financing Scheme**

To support its suppliers during this challenging period, JLR has launched a new short-term financing scheme. Under this scheme, suppliers will receive most of their payments upfront once an order is placed, with the final payment made upon invoice receipt. This initiative aims to accelerate payments by up to 120 days, significantly easing suppliers’ cash flow pressures.

Mardell highlighted the scheme’s importance in sustaining supplier relationships and ensuring a smoother production restart.

With the phased resumption underway and supplier support in place, JLR is making crucial strides toward full operational recovery following the cyberattack disruption.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/auto/jlr-to-resume-production-after-month-long-cyberattack-break/story

Canara HSBC Life Insurance to launch IPO on October 10

**Canara HSBC Life Insurance to Launch IPO on October 10**

*By Dwaipayan Roy | October 5, 2025*

Canara HSBC Life Insurance Company is set to launch its first-ever initial public offering (IPO) on October 10, 2025. The IPO will be a complete offer-for-sale (OFS) consisting of 23.75 crore shares and is scheduled to close on October 14. Ahead of the launch, a portion of the shares will be reserved for anchor investors one day prior.

### IPO Details and Pricing

The price band for the public offer has been approved by regulators and will be announced shortly. The OFS will involve promoter stake sales from Canara Bank and HSBC Insurance. Additionally, investor and selling shareholder Punjab National Bank (PNB) will participate in the sale of shares.

### Strong Market Position and Growth

According to a Crisil report, Canara HSBC Life Insurance’s individual weighted premium income (WPI) has grown at the third highest rate among bank-led insurers between FY2022 and FY2025, reflecting its strong market presence.

The company has demonstrated steady growth in its annualized premium equivalent (APE) over recent years. Its profit after tax has increased at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 13.26%, rising from ₹91.2 crore in FY2023 to ₹117 crore in FY2025. Moreover, the embedded value expanded significantly from ₹4,272 crore at the end of FY2023 to ₹6,111 crore as of FY2025.

### Financial Strength and Customer Reach

As of June 2025, Canara HSBC Life Insurance maintained a robust solvency ratio of 200.42%, comfortably above the regulatory minimum requirement of 150%. The company has also insured over 10.51 million lives, underscoring its extensive reach and the trust it has earned from customers.

### Lead Managers

The IPO is being managed by a consortium of leading financial institutions, including SBI Capital Markets, BNP Paribas, HSBC Securities & Capital Markets (India), JM Financial, and Motilal Oswal Investment Advisors, who serve as the book running lead managers for the issue.

Stay tuned for further updates on Canara HSBC Life Insurance’s IPO as the price band is announced. This offering marks a significant milestone for the company as it seeks to expand its footprint in the life insurance sector.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/business/everything-we-know-about-canara-hsbc-life-insurance-s-ipo/story

Shubhanshu Shukla appointed brand ambassador of ‘Viksit Bharat Buildathon’

**Shubhanshu Shukla Appointed Brand Ambassador of ‘Viksit Bharat Buildathon’**

*By Dwaipayan Roy | Oct 05, 2025, 06:41 PM*

Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, the first Indian to reach the International Space Station (ISS), has been officially appointed as the brand ambassador for the “Viksit Bharat Buildathon.” This nationwide innovation movement targets students from classes 6 to 12, encouraging them to create innovative solutions that drive India’s development.

**A Nationwide Innovation Movement for Students**

The “Viksit Bharat Buildathon” is set to be the largest school hackathon in India. Organized by the Ministry of Education in collaboration with the Atal Innovation Mission, over one crore students from approximately 1.5 lakh schools across the country are expected to participate.

This extensive initiative invites young minds to ideate, design, and develop prototypes focusing on four vital themes:

– **Aatmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India)**
– **Swadeshi (Indigenous Products)**
– **Vocal for Local (Promoting Local Products)**
– **Samriddhi (Prosperity)**

Through these themes, the Buildathon aims to nurture creativity and problem-solving skills while fostering a spirit of national pride and self-sufficiency among students.

**Shubhanshu Shukla’s Role and Vision**

Group Captain Shukla, a 39-year-old Indian Air Force officer and test pilot, completed his maiden space voyage with the Axiom-4 mission, becoming only the second Indian to travel to space after Rakesh Sharma’s iconic 1984 flight.

Recently, Shukla met with School Education Secretary Sanjay Kumar to discuss the vision for the Buildathon, emphasizing the importance of empowering young innovators to contribute toward building a developed India.

**Event Timeline and Participation Details**

The “Viksit Bharat Buildathon” was officially launched on September 23, with registrations open until October 6. The live hackathon event is scheduled for October 13, and winners will be announced in December.

Students from classes 6 to 12 are encouraged to form teams and participate actively, developing creative ideas and prototypes that tackle real-life challenges aligned with the four national themes.

Don’t miss the chance to be part of this exciting journey toward innovation and progress. Register before the deadline and help build a Viksit Bharat!
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/science/space-traveler-becomes-viksit-bharat-buildathon-brand-ambassador/story

Shubhanshu Shukla appointed brand ambassador of ‘Viksit Bharat Buildathon’

**Shubhanshu Shukla Appointed Brand Ambassador of ‘Viksit Bharat Buildathon’**

*By Dwaipayan Roy | Oct 05, 2025, 06:41 PM*

Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, the first Indian to reach the International Space Station (ISS), has been appointed as the brand ambassador for the **”Viksit Bharat Buildathon”**—a nationwide innovation movement targeting students from classes 6 to 12.

### Largest School Hackathon in India

The “Viksit Bharat Buildathon” is poised to be the largest school hackathon in India, with over **one crore students** from around **1.5 lakh schools** expected to participate. This ambitious initiative is organized by the **Ministry of Education** in collaboration with the **Atal Innovation Mission**.

### Themes and Participation

The hackathon encourages young minds to ideate, design, and develop prototypes based on four key national themes:

– **Aatmanirbhar Bharat** (Self-reliant India)
– **Swadeshi** (Indigenous products)
– **Vocal for Local** (Promoting local products)
– **Samriddhi** (Prosperity)

Students from classes 6 to 12 are invited to form teams and creatively address real-life challenges through this platform.

### Shubhanshu Shukla’s Vision

Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, a 39-year-old Indian Air Force officer and test pilot, recently completed his maiden space voyage aboard the Axiom-4 mission. He became only the second Indian to travel to space, following Rakesh Sharma’s iconic flight in 1984.

On October 4, Shukla met with School Education Secretary Sanjay Kumar to discuss the vision and objectives of the Buildathon, underlining the event’s national significance and potential impact.

### Event Timeline

– **Registration Deadline:** October 6, 2025
– **Event Date:** October 13, 2025
– **Winners Announcement:** December 2025

With registration closing soon, students are encouraged to participate actively and showcase their innovative solutions that contribute towards building a developed and self-reliant India.

For more details and registration, visit the official Buildathon website. Join the movement to build a **Viksit Bharat!**
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/science/space-traveler-becomes-viksit-bharat-buildathon-brand-ambassador/story

Shubhanshu Shukla appointed brand ambassador of ‘Viksit Bharat Buildathon’

**Shubhanshu Shukla Appointed Brand Ambassador of ‘Viksit Bharat Buildathon’**

*By Dwaipayan Roy | October 5, 2025, 6:41 PM*

Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, the first Indian to reach the International Space Station (ISS), has been named the brand ambassador for the “Viksit Bharat Buildathon.” This nationwide innovation movement targets students from classes 6 to 12 and is organized by the Ministry of Education in collaboration with the Atal Innovation Mission.

### Massive Student Participation Expected

The “Viksit Bharat Buildathon” is set to become the largest school hackathon in India, with over one crore students from around 1.5 lakh schools participating across the country. The initiative inspires young minds to ideate, design, and develop prototypes based on four key themes:
– **Aatmanirbhar Bharat** (Self-reliant India)
– **Swadeshi** (Indigenous)
– **Vocal for Local** (Promoting local products)
– **Samriddhi** (Prosperity)

### A Visionary Discussion

Shubhanshu Shukla, a 39-year-old Indian Air Force officer and test pilot who recently completed his maiden space mission aboard the Axiom-4, is only the second Indian to go into space after Rakesh Sharma’s historic flight in 1984.

On Saturday, Shukla met with School Education Secretary Sanjay Kumar to discuss the vision and objectives of the Buildathon, reinforcing the event’s emphasis on innovation and national development.

### Important Dates and Participation Details

The “Viksit Bharat Buildathon” was officially launched on September 23, with registrations open until October 6. The live event is scheduled for October 13, and winners will be announced in December.

Students from classes 6 to 12 are encouraged to form teams and collaborate creatively to develop innovative ideas and prototypes addressing real-world challenges aligned with the four national themes.

For more information and to register, students and educators can visit the official Buildathon website before the registration deadline. Join this exciting movement to contribute to a developed and self-reliant India!
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/science/space-traveler-becomes-viksit-bharat-buildathon-brand-ambassador/story

Exit mobile version