Back in June, a Double Date feature was introduced on Tinder that allowed users to find their perfect match in a pair. Tinder has now turned this feature into a dedicated mode, while there is also a College mode that was introduced along with Double Date Mode.

Double Date Mode & College Mode: Introduced on Tinder

Yesterday, Tinder introduced Modes, a new way for users to match on their terms and find connections that better align with their vibe. The Modes Navigation Bar sits at the top of the Tinder home screen, which currently includes For You Mode, Double Date Mode, and College Mode.

For You Mode lets you see everyone in one place, just like the classic Tinder experience, while Double Date mode and College mode let you step into spaces designed to make it easier for you to dive into the Tinder mode of your liking.

Double Date Mode

Double Date Mode now offers a dedicated space to browse other pairs, making it easier to connect with users looking for the same type of match. As per the company, they saw strong engagement, including Double Date users sending nearly 25% more messages per match than in 1:1 chats, and nearly 15% of users who accepted a Double Date invite being either new to Tinder or recently activated.

College Mode

College Mode is built on the success of Tinder U, that has said to increase enrolment by nearly 90% each year since 2024. College Mode compiles other college users in one place. Users can switch to this mode and see college-specific profile elements, including where others attend school, graduation year, major, Greek life, and clubs. It helps users in meeting new people from their own or nearby campuses, including those who don’t live directly on campus.

Availability

The Modes Nav bar and Double Date mode are now available globally, with College Mode gradually becoming available to eligible US users later this fall, across both iOS and Android.

Tinder is planning to introduce more modes that go beyond the basics, catering to unique interests, intentions, and ways of connecting.

In an exclusive Q&A with Cleo Lon, Sr. Director, Global Product Marketing at Tinder, some more in-depth details are revealed related to these new modes. Check it out below.

Q&A attributed to Cleo Lon, Sr. Director, Global Product Marketing at Tinder

How do Modes differ from the traditional Tinder experience?

Modes centers on choice and intentionality. In the traditional Tinder experience, you’re browsing a wide pool of people all in one place. With Modes, we’ve created a way for members to tailor their experience to what feels right for them in the moment. For example, College Mode pulls together students from your campus or nearby schools, while Double Date Mode lets pairs connect directly with other pairs. It’s a more focused way to explore the type of connections you’re looking for. The feedback we heard from Gen Z was that they wanted more fun, low-pressure ways to connect, and Modes is a continuation of exactly that. They layer on flexibility and relevance to the classic Tinder experience. Modes reflect how Gen Z approaches dating. Sometimes it’s about meeting someone one-on-one, sometimes it’s about bringing friends along, and sometimes it’s about connecting within your campus community. Modes give them the tools to do all of that within Tinder.

What was the main purpose behind introducing these Modes?

The main purpose of introducing Modes was to give our members more control and intentionality over their Tinder experience. We heard consistently from Gen Z that how they want to date can shift from day to day, sometimes it’s about meeting someone one-on-one, other times it’s about bringing friends along. Modes lets users choose the context that feels right for where they’re at in that moment.

What unique challenges did you face while developing Double Date Mode, given that it involves two pairs interacting instead of just two individuals?

One of the biggest challenges in developing Double Date Mode was that it’s fundamentally a different dynamic than one-on-one dating. Instead of just two individuals interacting, we had to design for two pairs of friends, meaning four people with their own personalities, preferences, and expectations. From a product perspective, that meant building a system that could respect each person’s individual identity and preferences, while still presenting them as part of a pair. For example, each user keeps their own profile and discovery settings, and the algorithm ensures that pairs are surfaced when they meet at least one person’s criteria. Balancing that logic in a way that felt natural and not overly complicated. What’s exciting is that those design choices have really paid off. We’ve seen higher engagement, stronger retention, and more meet-up intent from Double Date than from traditional one-on-one matches.

Based on the figures you shared, what do you think contributed most to the success of Double Date Mode?

The biggest factor was that Double Date Mode tapped directly into how Gen Z was already dating. We knew from our research and from our Year in Swipe™ report that nearly half of young singles planned to lean on friends to help navigate dating in 2025, so we leaned into that behavior. Double Date Mode simply formalized that behavior within the app, which is why nearly 85% of users adopting it are 18–29, and why women in particular are three times more likely to Like a pair compared to solo profiles. The experience resonates because it feels authentic to how this generation already navigates meeting new people. On top of that, the dedicated Mode structure streamlined the experience, making it easy for pairs to find other pairs without having to sift through the broader app. That combination of authenticity, fun, and simplicity appears to be what drove the strong engagement numbers we’ve seen.

Since students were already using Tinder, what was the idea behind launching a dedicated College Mode?

Students have always been a huge part of Tinder’s community, but one thing we heard consistently was that they wanted more control over their experience. With Tinder U, we saw incredible momentum. Enrollment grew nearly 90% year over year since 2022, but the feedback was that all profiles (college and non) still lived in one place, which made it hard to specifically find other students. College Mode provides undergrads a dedicated space to connect with other students, with profiles highlighting things like school, major, graduation year, and campus life. Instead of blending in with the broader app, students can now toggle into an experience that feels more clearly made for them. The idea was to take what was already working with Tinder U and evolve it into something more intentional, streamlined, and aligned with how Gen Z wants to date, low-pressure, authentic, and community-driven.

What safety features are in place to ensure that only verified students can access College Mode?

College Mode builds on the foundation we created with Tinder U, which was designed from the start to be a students-only experience. Users who are already verified through Tinder U, as well as most who list ‘In College’ as their education status, can access College Mode. And we’re continuing to refine the experience based on user feedback to ensure it truly meets the needs of the students it was designed for. On top of that, Tinder’s existing trust and safety tools carry over like reporting, blocking, and in-app education prompts such as Are You Sure? and Does This Bother You?. These layers work together to maintain a safe, respectful environment while still keeping the experience low-pressure and fun.

Looking ahead, how do you plan to evolve College Mode to keep it relevant for Gen Z?

College Mode is just one piece of a much bigger vision with Modes. What’s exciting is that Modes is an evolution of features that were already resonating like Tinder U and Double Date, but now Gen Z has more choice and control over how they connect. Looking ahead, this is really just the beginning. We see Modes as a way to move beyond the basics, creating spaces tailored to different interests, intentions, and styles of dating. For Gen Z, that flexibility is key, because the way they approach relationships is constantly evolving, and we want Tinder to evolve right alongside them.

The post Tinder officially introduces Double Date Mode and College Mode; Here’s what Sr. Director of Global Product Marketing at Tinder has to day about these modes appeared first on The Tech Outlook.

Meizu is making a bold comeback on the global stage with its ‘Fly with Me’ launch event, introducing a new wave of AI-integrated products across more than 30 countries spanning Latin America, Europe, Central Asia, the Middle East, and the Asia-Pacific. Alongside three smartphones first seen at MWC, Meizu has added two new models, the StarV View AR smart glasses, and the StarV Ring2, a health-focused smart ring. In an exclusive interview with The Tech Outlook, Mr. Binbin Gu, Executive Director of Global Business at Meizu, shared insights into the brand’s global strategy, innovation roadmap, and vision for a connected AI ecosystem.

Q : Mr. Gu, this upcoming launch represents a significant milestone for Meizu globally. What makes this particular event so pivotal in the company’s international journey?

A Binbin Gu：Formerly known for its diverse smartphone offerings, MEIZU has steadily grown with its converged AI ecosystem that combines hardware and software, multi-device interconnectivity, and full-scenario coverage.The Meizu smartphones, smart glasses, and smart cockpits are full-featured and rich in experience, and are popular in emerging markets in Asia, Latin America, the Middle East, and Europe. In addition, the company’s portfolio includes much more, such as smart glasses, smart rings, smart watches, tablets, and even the FlymeAuto car system. The launch is a new journey for the new MEIZU and a major milestone for consumers around the world to recognize the new MEIZU.

Q : Could you walk us through the innovation highlights of the new lineup – specifically what distinguishes the Mblu22 series, Note22 collection, and StarV XR devices in today’s competitive market?

A Binbin Gu：Designed for value-driven consumers, the MEIZU Mblu 22 and MEIZU Mblu 22 Pro balance affordability with high-grade performance. MEIZU Mblu 22 features a 6.79-inch HD+ display with a 90Hz refresh rate, powered by an octa-core processor delivering balanced performace. Its 5,000mAh battery supports day-long usage, while the F1.8 large aperture camera captures stunning landscapes and captivating portraits with breathtaking clarity.MEIZU Mblu 22 Pro Elevates the experience with a powerful MediaTek Helio G81 processor, a 6.79-inch FHD+ 120Hz ultra smooth display, and 50MP ultra HD main camera plus 2MP macro camera. Its Titan shield architecture is constructed with high-strength materials and rigorously tested for reliability. However, the MEIZU Note 22 lineup targets tech enthusiasts with a perfect balance of performance and price. MEIZU Note 22 is equipped with a stunning triple-camera system — 108MP main camera, 8MP ultra-wide camera and a 2MP portrait camera — capturing beautiful vivid moments day and night. Its 5,000mAh battery supports 40W fast charging, while 6.78-inch FHD+ 120Hz ultra AMOLED display delivers a smooth interactive experience.

The StarV View merges style with cutting-edge AR capabilities. It has 188-inch 120Hz display with ultra high definition of 85mm/LP and 10-level brightness adjustment, creating a cinematic viewing for users. However, it is only 74g and is easy to take anywhere. It also supports 0-600 diopter adjustment and is very friendly to people with myopia. The glasses are like a private theater in your pocket.

Q : These new products seem to reflect an evolution in Meizu’s approach. How do they embody the company’s refreshed global strategy and technological vision?

A : Binbin Gu：Meizu is a global technology company, and we have globalization in our DNA. Since the inception of our company, we have been steadfastly practicing our globalization strategy, building a cooperative ecosystem with technology partners, designers, and distributors from the global market, from which we draw diversified technological innovations, product designs, and market insights to develop iterative and superior products for global users.

In terms of product lines, our cell phones, glasses, and cars are all globalized strategies, and they are all developing rapidly, especially in the Middle East, Latin America, Central Asia, and other regions, and our product shipments are also rising rapidly. In addition, our talent is also a globalized strategy, especially in Europe and the United States, where we are absorbing local talents while maintaining cooperation with local partners. This year, all of our products were designed with overseas needs and scenarios in mind. For us, globalization is a natural progression, XRs, and automobiles. We are building a cross-terminal convergence AI ecosystem and bringing AI technology to each terminal product.

Q : The inclusion of StarV XR devices is particularly noteworthy. How central is extended reality technology to Meizu’s future roadmap, and what unique perspective is Meizu bringing to this emerging space?

A Binbin Gu：In Meizu’s product line, StarV XR is one of the three main products alongside cell phones and automobiles, taking on the important task of exploring the next generation of AI terminals. Meizu’s StarV brand is currently enjoying impressive results in China’s domestic market: the number one seller in the first quarter after its launch, and with a market share of 41.5%.

Meizu’s StarV Air2 and StarV View correspond to the two mainstream AR technology routes, Birdbath and Optical Waveguide. Among them, Birdbath technology is mainly used to meet the needs of immersive viewing and gaming with the help of Micro OLED displays, which is more suitable for immersive entertainment-oriented scenarios, which is StarV View . At present, there are few manufacturers in the industry that do both Birdbath and optical waveguide technology, and Meizu is one of them.

Along with the integration of AI big models and the improvement of multimodal interaction capabilities, Meizu’s self-developed Flyme AI big model, which adopts open architecture, has taken the lead in accessing the industry’s mainstream models, such as DeepSeek and Tongyi Thousand Questions. Meizu will understand consumer demand, according to the different characteristics of each big model, flexible to do the call, to present the best a result.AR glasses will be from text and voice to multi-modal step, from the current stage: “encyclopedia question and answer assistant”, to “executable assistant”, and then to “active on-the-go assistant” evolution, to provide users with a more convenient, intelligent experience. At the same time, Meizu launched its ecological cooperation strategy, launching the open platform – Full Sky Star 1.0, which allows developers and industry partners to quickly call StarV Eyewear’s capabilities, to build a broad intelligent ecosystem.

This year, Meizu will make more product and experience upgrades in AR smart glasses with optical waveguide technology. In terms of smart glasses with camera, we will release AR+AI glasses with visual ability in China market in July this year, accompanied by a number of refreshing and innovative functions for the industry.

Q : Beyond the products themselves, how is Meizu planning to strengthen its connection with international consumers and the global tech community through this launch?

A Binbin Gu: This conference is for global users. For users, Meizu has always adhered to the original intention , based on user needs, and then to define the product. When we make cell phones, glasses, cars and other terminal products, the future full-scene ecosystem built on the base of Flyme AIOS is to let users use our products to enjoy the beautiful life brought by cutting-edge technology, which is our original intention and the essence of what we do.
Every company needs to be clear about what it creates product value and what user experience it brings, and Meizu has come so far and returned to the global market once again, but also based on user needs, the pursuit of the product to the extreme, while insisting on innovation and daring to break through.

Q : The smartphone market has become increasingly challenging for new global entrants. What specific advantages or differentiators position Meizu to successfully compete in established markets outside Asia?

A Binbin Gu：Our core competitiveness lies in continuous innovation and precise positioning of user needs.We provide not just a smartphone, but a complete digital ecosystem. We also attach importance to localized services and quick response to market changes to ensure that our products can meet the needs of consumers in different countries and regions.

Meizu’s product capabilities have always been at the forefront of the markets. In the Chinese market, the sales of AI smartphones have doubled with a high growth rate; XR smart glasses have ranked first in the sales lists of many mainstream e-commerce platforms in China soon after they were launched, and achieved a high market share of 41.5%, ranking first in China and among the world’s leaders. In the context of strategic collaboration, Meizu’s AI strategy and Geely’s All in AI strategy are integrated. Several car models from brands such as Geely、Galaxy、LYNK & CO have been equipped with the smart cockpit operating system based on Flyme Auto, and the two parties have worked together to promote user maintenance and technology integration. At present, Flyme Auto has become the smart cockpit operating system supporting the largest number of car models marketed in China, covering more than 1,000,000 car owners. It is currently the smoothest and fastest-growing IVI (in-vehicle infotainment) system, ranking in the first tier among the IVI systems.

Q : Looking beyond this launch event, what core message or brand promise do you want the global audience to associate with Meizu as you expand your international presence?

A Binbin Gu: The conference demonstrated Meizu’s business layout of “cell phone + XR + smart car” and its technical research and development strength of hardware and software integration, multi-terminal interconnection, and full-scene coverage; it signified that while ploughing into the domestic market, Meizu accelerated its globalization strategy, continuously enriched its overseas product lines, and entered a new stage of products going to the sea, science and technology going to the sea, and ecological going to the sea, Ecological overseas new stage. Nowadays, overseas consumers are more and more inclined to choose integrated eco-products, and Meizu’s AI ecosystem connects hardware, software and services to create a borderless smart life experience. We will develop new products according to the habits of consumers in different countries and regions, so that more overseas users can experience the charm of the AI ecosystem.

The post “We Are Building a Cross-Terminal AI Ecosystem” – Meizu’s Binbin Gu on Global Strategy and Expansion appeared first on The Tech Outlook.

What influenced the decision to reintroduce the brand into the Indian market at this time?

AKAI’s re-entry into India wasn’t just strategic—it was instinctive. We sensed a shift. India has become one of the most exciting, fast-evolving consumer electronics markets in the world, fuelled by rising aspirations and a hunger for smarter living. With our 90-year legacy of Japanese innovation, it felt like the perfect moment to bring AKAI’s trusted global standards back to Indian homes. We restarted our journey in 2016, and since then, we’ve been building momentum—creating an ecosystem of future-forward products, strong partners, and a growing community of discerning consumers.

How does AKAI plan to align its global legacy with the expectations and demands of Indian consumers?

The Indian consumer today is sharp, value-driven, and technologically intuitive. Our approach marries AKAI’s legacy of Japanese precision with deep local understanding. We design products that are packed with features, built to last, and intuitively beautiful. Whether it’s a Smart TV, washing machine, audio, smart interactive panel or air conditioner, everything is engineered to blend effortlessly into modern Indian lifestyles. We aren’t just selling appliances—we’re offering thoughtful design, smart utility, and everyday simplicity.

How has the Japanese principle of MOTTAINAI influenced AKAI’s product design and innovation in India

MOTTAINAI—a beautiful, deeply rooted philosophy around respecting resources and minimizing waste—is a guiding light for us. It’s why we design with intention. Our products are energy-efficient, long-lasting, and built to reduce excess. Take our washing machines, for example—they’re optimized for minimal water consumption. Our ACs? Maximum cooling, minimal energy drain. MOTTAINAI isn’t just a philosophy—it’s our design language.

In what ways is AKAI incorporating sustainability and long-term durability into its product roadmap?

For us, sustainability isn’t a tagline—it’s embedded in our build. From sourcing high-grade components to choosing eco-conscious packaging, we think across the lifecycle. Our appliances are built to last, with features like eco wash modes and intelligent cooling that reduce overall environmental impact. We believe that good design should last longer, perform smarter, and tread lighter. It’s our way of delivering value and responsibility.

Can you share the rationale behind the naming of the AC series—Siaachen, Nilgiree, and Kaashmir—and how it connects to their technical features?

We wanted our ACs to speak the language of India. Siaachen, Kaashmir, and Nilgiree aren’t just names—they’re metaphors for the climates they serve.
Siaachen is built for the extremes—heat, dust, unpredictability. Think glacier-like intensity with a powerful processor and high-performance IDUs (indoor units) that deliver heavy-duty cooling without flinching.

Kaashmir is an all-weather beauty—cooling in summer, heating in winter. A balance of grace and grit.

Nilgiree captures the gentle southern air—calm, efficient, and whisper-quiet. It’s all part of our Simply Bright philosophy—clear purpose, elegant execution.

What are the key differences between the three series, and which consumer segments do they target?

This summer, we’re turning the heat into a non-issue—HAR GHAR ZERO SUMMER with AKAI ACs.

Siaachen Series: Built for blazing summers and rugged conditions. High-performance processor, larger indoor units, 100% copper coils, Ayurvedic Filters, Blue Fin Coating, and cooling that holds up to 55°C. Perfect for top floors, large homes, and premium buyers who want unmatched power.

Kaashmir Series: Our next-gen hot-and-cold AC. Inverter tech meets design-led aesthetics. Ideal for urban families who expect style, comfort, and all-weather versatility.
Nilgiree NXT Version: Smart, quiet, and energy-efficient. Crafted for Indian households that want modern cooling with budget-friendly appeal. Available in both 3-star and 5-star energy ratings, aligned with government norms—because smart performance and conscious choices go hand in hand. It’s a cooling upgrade that reflects our Gold in Every Way promise—refined, reliable, and ready to perform.

How are AKAI’s ACs addressing concerns around air quality and energy efficiency?

Clean air is the new luxury. Our ACs come equipped with Ayurvedic Filters—a fusion of wellness and technology that purifies air at the source. With R32 eco-friendly refrigerants, inverter compressors, and stabilizer-free operation, they deliver high-efficiency performance built for the modern Indian home. Available in both 3-star and 5-star energy-rated models—as per official guidelines—our ACs offer conscious comfort without compromise.

Could you elaborate on specific technologies or features that enhance durability and performance under extreme conditions?

We design for the real India—voltage drops, dusty conditions, and scorching summers. Our ACs feature:

• High-Grooved Copper Tubing for enhanced durability
• Blue Fin & Golden Fin Coatings for anti-corrosion protection
• Tropicalized Compressors for high-heat endurance
• Auto-Clean & Self-Diagnosis for easy maintenance
• This is engineering that stands strong when the weather doesn’t.

Beyond air conditioners, what other product categories is AKAI focusing on in the Indian market?

We’re crafting a connected ecosystem—starting with Google-powered Smart TVs, available in stunning 4K and QLED 4K variants, with screen sizes going up to a massive 100 inches. Our portfolio also spans a full range of washing machines (semi and fully automatic) and immersive audio products. Recently, we expanded into Interactive Flat Panel Displays, bringing smart technology into classrooms and boardrooms alike. It’s not just about upgrading homes anymore— it’s about elevating every space where life happens.

Are there plans to introduce new product lines or expand into adjacent categories in the near future?

Absolutely. India is evolving fast, and so are we. We’re exploring expansions into smart home devices and lifestyle tech, where function meets expression. As entertainment, utility, and identity converge, AKAI wants to be the brand that simplifies and enhances everyday living.

What is AKAI’s current go-to-market strategy in India, and how is the brand ensuring accessibility across urban and rural markets?

We’re wherever the consumer is. Online, we’re live on Amazon and our D2C platform— www.akaiindia.in. Offline, we’re present at Bajaj Electronics, Electronic Mart, Reliance Digital, and other top retailers. Our extensive distribution and logistics network reaches over 19,000 PIN codes, ensuring nationwide access. No matter the region, accessibility is a promise we keep.

How is AKAI working to strengthen after-sales service and consumer trust?

Trust is earned long after the purchase. We’ve built a pan-India service network with 1200+ centers, supported by fast-response tools that streamline installation, service reminders, and warranty claims. We want every consumer to feel reassured—not just on Day One, but for years to come.

What shifts are you observing in consumer expectations within the home appliance sector?

Consumers today demand more than just function—they want form, emotion, and intelligence. They value quiet operation, design sensibility, smart control, and increasingly, honest pricing. It’s no longer just about the appliance; it’s about how it complements and elevates their lifestyle. The shift from utility to lifestyle is unmistakable.

How does AKAI plan to stay responsive to these changes while maintaining product quality and affordability?

We operate through a hybrid model—blending global R&D and design expertise with local manufacturing and market insights. This allows us to innovate faster, maintain tighter quality control, and ensure competitive pricing. It’s a smart synergy that balances premium design with accessible value. By staying lean and tech-led, we remain agile and adaptive in a dynamic market.

As the Managing Director & CEO of AKAI India, what are your immediate priorities and long-term goals for the brand?

Right now, it’s about presence—getting more homes to experience AKAI, deepening recall, and broadening our product footprint. Long-term, we want AKAI to stand for smart, sustainable living in India. A name trusted for innovation, design, and dependability. We’re not just building a brand— we’re building a lifestyle ecosystem.

What is your outlook for the Indian consumer electronics and appliance industry over the next few years?

The outlook is incredibly exciting. India is fast becoming one of the world’s top consumer electronics markets—driven by rising affluence, rapid digitization, and strong demand from both urban and rural sectors. ACs and smart appliances are leading the surge, with local manufacturing and tech-forward innovation accelerating growth. India isn’t just participating in the global market
—it’s on track to be a frontrunner. And we see AKAI playing a meaningful role in shaping this future.

The post AKAI India CEO in Exclusive Interview: On Brand Revival, Sustainable Innovation, and Meeting India’s Evolving Consumer Demands appeared first on The Tech Outlook.

In the dynamic world of kitchenware, Wonderchef has consistently stood out for its innovative and high-quality products. Today, we are thrilled to present an interview with Ravi Saxena, the CEO and Founder of Wonderchef, on the occasion of the launch of their latest product, Chef Magic. This groundbreaking kitchen solution promises to revolutionize the culinary experience.

In our conversation, Mr. Saxena shares the message behind Chef Magic and a lot more about it. Join us as we explore the story behind Chef Magic and what makes Wonderchef a heavy contender in the kitchenware industry.

Q)What message do you want to convey to your customers with the launch of Chef Magic, and how does this product embody the values and vision of Wonderchef?

Ans) With the launch of Chef Magic we want to give the message of gender equality because the millennial population has not forced children to learn cooking, and they have not been said that if you don’t know cooking you won’t be respected in your law house. Now if people want to learn cooking they learn, otherwise they don’t and in this period a product like Chef Magic is required, so that food can be prepared even if you don’t know cooking. Now a husband who doesn’t know cooking can help her wife in the kitchen by simply following the steps. And even our ad film talks about gender equality in which the bride comes to see the groom with her family. She asks in front of all the family members in the ad whether he knows cooking or not because the girl doesn’t know in the ad. The boy responds with “yes” The food is prepared with Chef Magic, with the help of a mobile. So this is one message that there is automatic cooking, healthy cooking because it will be prepared at home as food from outside has oil, causes several diseases, and contains Ajinomoto-like things.

Q)You mentioned during the launch that in five weeks you have received 1200 orders and 400 orders have been delivered already. Would you share the response of buyers who have already bought it and are using it?

Ans ) A number of orders have been delivered while others will be delivered in the coming days as it is manufactured continuously. We will be there for everyone from July and those customers who are using it are very happy. The best thing is when you launch a new product in the market you always stay worried about the quality of the product or encountering any issues with it. Fortunately, there has been no such reported event as it’s a highly engineered product. As you can see here it has been made with the best and top quality material and that’s the reason also that it’s a bit costly product. We want people to invest in quality things. People are already enjoying it and preparing their recipes with the “My Creation”. We have given the feature “My Creation” that lets you save your famous recipes in it. Let’s say our home’s “Masoor ki daal ke kabab” recipe is very good and we don’t find it usually anywhere. And we want that mother to save her recipe in it so that the recipe can be immortal for their kids for generations.  Mothers can also send their recipes remotely to their children through it.

Q)How do you engage and communicate with the community of buyers who have purchased Chef Magic, ensuring they have the best experience with the product and stay connected with Wonderchef?

Ans) We stay connected with every customer because the first step is, the registration process. When they register through it we stay connected with them. It’s the process that we stay in touch with them and even they can call us anytime or message us. We have also made a community of customers where they are interacting with each other sharing their dishes on it. The community is small now but in the upcoming days, there will be thousands of people in the community.

Q)Can you tell our readers about the availability of the Wonder Chef’s Chef Magic?

Ans)Sure, it will be available on Amazon, the company’s website, Reliance Digital, Croma, and other big stores. At some places the Wonder Chef’s Chef Magic is available and buyers can order it from the website, it will be delivered to them in 10-15 days of duration.

The post An Interview with Ravi Saxena, CEO and Founder of Wonderchef, on the Newly Launched Product: Chef Magic appeared first on The Tech Outlook.

In this Q&A session, Manoj Tulsani,co-founder and CEO of Rayna Group reveals how he started and grew his modest business to a massive success in the travel industry. 

• What is your background? 

I am a commerce graduate; I started my first job with Dubai’s Safeer Group of Companies as a marketing executive in 1999. I next joined Time Machine Group of Companies where I stayed till I became the Marketing Head. Later, when I decided to start my own business, I switched from trading industry to service industry. 

• When did you start Rayna Tours? Where did the idea for Rayna Tours come from?

We started Rayna Tours and Travels in the year 2006. The idea to start Rayna Tours actually came from my passion for travel and interest in meeting and mingling with new people. Back then, most related service providers in the industry offered hotel and flight bookings but they almost ignored the key aspect, i.e. to arrange activities and tours for the visitors traveling to Dubai. And our mission initially was to fix this vital shortcoming by designing pocket-friendly services and unique packages that would satisfy every traveler’s preference. 

• How did you materialize your ideas into a venture?

It all began by choosing the right location. We saw the birth of our venture from a small outlet inside a strategically located hotel in Dubai, namely Flora Grand Hotel. Our initial customers were the guests who stayed in the hotel; we arranged activities like safaris, sightseeing tours,and other iconic Dubai experiences for them at affordable rates. It was well-received by the guests and the outcome was quite incredible. In a span of less than two years, we opened a chain of about 15 travel outlets in Dubai’s popular hotels and resorts. And it didn’t take too long for us to mark our name in the industry as a leading Destination Management Company. In 2009, we launched our main office at Old Labour Building, in Abu Hail, which almost after a decade has been shifted to a larger office inside ACICO Business Park Building, at Port Saaed Road, Deira. 

• What were the biggest challenges you have had to overcome along the way? 

There were quite a lot of them.We set up Rayna Tours and Travels small by sourcing all our personal savings and we didn’t have a proper mentor or a solid business plan or background or the right team to grow our business. The greatest challenge was probably getting our targeted audience see the potential of our concept. Moreover, it wasn’t easy to compete with the giants in the industry. So, we crafted our offerings differently in such a way that they are simple, straightforward and absolute value for money without any hidden fee. And this is the real base of our business success. 

• What does Rayna Tours specialize in? 

Rayna Tours’ initial clients were limited to just hotel guests, but it is now a reliable platform for all types of travelers across the world to effortlessly plan and execute their dream holiday or travel. Whatever our guests are looking for to compile their travel – be it hotel reservation, flight booking, visa application, MICE or transfers, Rayna Tours has high-end choices to well take care of every aspect of a travel. We also help both small and mid-sized travel business, individual tour operators etc, to grow their presence through our dedicated B2B travel portal, www.raynab2b.com. 

• How is Rayna Tours different from other related service providers? 

First of all, we are an ISO certified company which indicates the high standard quality of our products and services and packages. As a customer-centric company, we always put our guests’ requirements first and hence our team can go any length to enrich the customer experience on round the clock basis. With a vast line up of cruise vessels, vehicles and a huge desert camp, we don’t have an intermediary to implement most of our best-selling services such as cruises and safaris. We are our customer’s number one choice; the proof of which is many awards and recognitions that we have received over the time via unbiased public voting and five-star customer reviews, mainly Traveler’s Choice Award from TripAdvisor and Arabian Travel Awards (for Best B2B Portal and Best Destination Management Company.)

• Running a business in a competitive industry is an extremely tough task. So, how do you deal with failures and mistakes? 

Yes, we have had to undergo many failures and challenges in our business journey. But, we never take it personal; instead we believe in SWOT analysis where we analyze our strengths and weaknesses while identifying our opportunities and threats. This not only allows us to know our strong points but also work on our inadequacies and limitations. 

• What is your favorite part of being the CEO of Rayna Group? 

The most amazing part of being in this position is that not every day is same or mundane for me. There may be lots of ups and downs with a diverse set of challenges and risks to tackle on day to day basis, but it is certainly rewarding as I can respond to my clients’ needs directly and even rectify the mistakes in our own unique ways. 

• What is your valuable advice for the up and coming entrepreneurs? 

To become an entrepreneur is both a daring and scary adventure. But, you really don’t have to be; once you know your passion and find your market, just have belief in yourself and further set your goals and vision right. And of course, be attentive and adaptable to the ever-changing market demands and learn from every mistake or difficult situation. Most importantly, always listen to your audience; be it positive or negative reviews, it will promote for the growth of your business. Remember that no business can reap success overnight; be prepared to make sacrifices and it is worth it once the results began to show.

The post An Interview with Manoj Tulsani – CEO of Rayna Tours and Travels appeared first on The Tech Outlook.

Rahul Sharma of Ek Ghar Banaunga fame takes on the role of the beloved Bhushan in the latest ALTBalaji original web series Helllo Jee, launched on 1st February 2021. Bhushan is the central male character in the series, he is one of the rare good ones which makes ‘Angelina’ who is not used to good men fall for him. Rahul Sharma talks in detail about the character and the show.

Tell us about ‘Helllo Jee’?

Helllo Jee is a story of a girl and her journey of how she meets different people/characters and how those characters have their own problems and struggles. But still, this girl manages to be a part of their lives and makes a way out of those struggles together as family members.

Tell us something about your character?

I am playing the character of Bhushan who is the positive lead of the show. Basically, Bhushan is a small-town boy and from a small family, who was raised in the shadows of poverty. There is a struggle in his life but is always willing to take risks and carve a way for himself. Bhushan is an innocent character still there is a bit of sharpness in him when it comes to his work and his life. He is a very ‘Desi type’ man who is connected to his roots. Has many friends and that chill attitude within him. There is a girl who he loves very much and this story is around that girl only.

You replaced Ansh Bagri for the role overnight. Any thoughts?

I don’t know about Ansh Bagri being a part of this show, because when I was approached for the show I sent them my Audition, and within 2-3 days they wanted to finalize me because they didn’t have many days left to start the shoot. So, I got selected just 2-3 days before the start of the shoot. 

What made you say yes to the show?

This is my first web series as a lead. I have been offered many shows in the past but in every show, they talked more about other things than the story, so I have rejected many series before this. But in this series, my character is very focused as to what he wants to do and how. And in the whole show, he is focused on one aim and he does not divert his aim till the end. That was the reason which attracted me the most and this will be the reason why people are going to like my character.

What are your thoughts on the concept of ‘Helllo Jee’? 

Helllo Jee has a very interesting concept, not because it is my show but in general. There is a very interesting story that involves many characters who are living their lives in agony and how a small thing turns their lives upside down. There is a shift in their lives when they set up a business together and strive to make a better future together. Being a youth-centric show, people are going to love it. 

What preparations have you done for your character in the show?

Preparing for Bhushan was quite tough for me, as I came at the last moment for the show and at first I was not able to find that Bhushan inside myself. So, I faced many problems during the shoot at the start as I was not able to bring my character to life. I was not able to attend all of the workshops for the show and on top of that, I fell sick right before the shoot. So, it was all-natural what I performed on set, even with the dialect and diction which was required to do justice to my character. And when we were shooting at different places, to understand the dialect of those areas I used to go to those places 4-5 days before the shoot to grasp as much as I could. Let’s hope that the audience loves my character.

How is your experience shooting with the co-stars? Did you shoot any intimate scenes with them?

Experience with the co-stars was absolutely superb and everybody was fabulous. We had a great time on set. I mostly shot with Nyra, Kashish, and Nitin, so I had a great time with them and even with the young co-stars, they were also brilliant like Rahul Verma, Dheerendra, etc. We had loads of fun on the set, so more than the show we created memories. There are no intimate scenes but a few romantic scenes in the show. I am happy that they are beautifully shot and will be presented to you guys beautifully as well. It was a part of the story and will help in the progression of the story. Otherwise, I would have said no to such a character if it had involved erotic scenes.

What are your expectations from ‘Helllo Jee’?

Like everybody in the Show, I also believe that Helllo Jee will do well. We have worked very hard on this project and we all want our work to be noticed and appreciated by the audience. I personally want to leave a mark on this platform as I did in the television industry.

What is your take on Nepotism?

Nepotism is everywhere not only in the industry but in every occupation. I personally don’t have any complaints about nepotism as people worked hard for it, their parents worked hard for it and their children are getting the benefits of those sacrifices and struggles. On the other hand, it is not easy to be the child of a celebrity as it involves a lot of expectations from you as well. You have to prove your worth to the industry and audience and if you are not able to prove they are worthy they are considered a failure. So, nepotism is a neutral term for me.

What is your take on the term ‘Womance’? How much are you getting paid? Did you face any money slash due to COVID?

I got a decent amount for the show. It was not low but I was comfortable with the amount. If you have good people around you, everything is worth it.

Tell us about your upcoming projects apart from ‘Helllo Jee’

Currently, I am on talking terms with a lot of television shows as well as web shows. So as soon as I confirm, I will let you all know the good news. 

The post Interview with Rahul Sharma from ALTBalaji web series Helllo Jee appeared first on The Tech Outlook.

There are so many inventions. Among these inventions, electronic gadgets are prominent. Gadgets are instruments that have made human life very easy. Time and again proves to nothing less than a blessing for the human race. Gadgets play a very important role in our lives. As we get up in the morning we need an alarm clock to wake up. Till the night we are bounded with the gadgets. Without the gadgets, we cannot imagine our lives. We use gadgets in each and every action. Like we want to purchase groceries and we need to the online payment we need a smartphone to make the online payment. The gadgets have become an essential part of our lives. Surviving without gadgets is the most impossible thing in today’s scenario.

The prevailing pandemic is one such example. With everything going digital it is impossible to live without gadgets. Technology cannot prevent the onset of the pandemics; however, it can help prevent the spread, educate, warn, and empower those on the ground to be aware of the situation, and noticeably lessen the impact. Today, technologies and gadgets like mobile, smart watches and fitness trackers, etc have become possible to test several innovative approaches to the pandemic response. 

Some of the ways how gadgets play a vital role in post-COVID-19 World – 

1. Life helper and optimizer

Gadgets not only make our daily life more versatile and effective, but they also contribute to increasing our standard of living. New devices like smart watches and fitness trackers can protect people from various diseases by the timely dedication of it. Nowadays smart watches enable features like heart rate monitoring, pulse monitoring. These trackers also help in regularizing the diets. 

2. Able to recognize

With the help of smart gadgets, one can easily detect the crime with the help of CCTVs connecting to gadgets. We can also find the places if we are not aware of the locations with the help of GPS and Location Tracker. The gadgets played a significant role in the surveillance and security purposes. With the outbreak of COVI-19, Gadgets are also helping in monitoring the COVID-19 containment zones. 

3. Reduces Distances

It gives the family joy and nobody must sit apart and experience the pain of separation now. With the advent of devices such as computers, cell phones, the camera now one can do the Video Calls, Voice calls any time anywhere. Thus, smart gadgets play a vital role in reducing distancing and bringing near and dears closer who are sitting far from us. 

4. Enabler of a seamless transition 

With education, landscape changing every day, and teaching pedagogy shifting to online modules gadgets is nothing less than a blessing. With the advent of a computer, laptops, Ipads, or even mobile phones our country seamlessly adopted the E-learning modules. 

5. Remote working technologies to support social distancing and maintain business continuity

As the prevailing pandemic threatening the business world, working from home ensures business continuity as well as facilitates social distancing. In such a scenario, technologies that enable secure access to data, enterprise applications, virtual meetings, cloud conferencing, and virtual/mixed/augmented reality are the forefront leaders to ensure deliverables are not impacted. Remote working is a blessing that comes due to technology and smart gadgets and is of one the greatest solution that helps us in social distancing. 

Indeed, the technology has advanced more and will continue to advance exponentially, but the human institutions and societies need to accelerate in adapting to it and continue investing in building the technology systems for the preparedness. It is quite evident that in the post-COVID-19 World new technologies and gadgets will play a crucial role in the seamless working of every industry.

The post Covid-19 impact: Demand for smart gadgets will surge in the post- COVID-19 World appeared first on The Tech Outlook.

We, at The Tech Outlook, caught up with Praveen Tyagi – Founder and CEO of STEPapp to know more about the application he made – STEPapp, how it functions and what is the USP of their program.
STEP (Student Talent Enhancement Program) is a revolutionary gamified learning application developed by a team of 400+ IITians and doctors. Recently, Amitabh Bachchan became the face of the brand that is available in English, Hindi, and Marathi.

In the interview, Praveen opened up about his journey with the company, the initial expectations, and inhibitions, the challenges, and much more.

Q. How did you come up with this idea?

Praveen Tyagi: Having been an educator for the past 22 years, I always felt that education needs a level playing field that allows students from all backgrounds equal opportunity to step up and be rewarded on the basis of their merit and sincerity. The digital revolution has provided us with a great opportunity to do just that. Students of this day and age need supplemental solutions that allow them to learn and gain conceptual clarity in an enjoyable, personalised, adaptive format, which can be achieved if learning is gamified.

That was when the idea struck me. I had the support of 400+ IITians and Doctors who not only understood my vision but also supported it. We came up with an idea that existing traditional learning pedagogy would be greatly complemented by a solution that would allow students to take control of their learning outcomes through conceptual clarity delivered to them in a gamified format. That is how the idea of STEPapp came into being.

Q. What expectations and fears you had when you started STEPapp? Do you think all the expectations have been fulfilled?

Praveen Tyagi: One of the biggest fears of bringing new technology in the digital education system is the misinterpretation that it is replacing the already set up traditional school education. I have always made sure that with the introduction of STEPapp, the traditional school education will be complemented and not supplemented. With STEPapp, we provide a gamified format to students that will enhance their education through a fun learning platform and helps them relearn the topics that are taught in schools.

We at STEPapp are focusing on bridging the educational gap between the children in the elite areas and the children in underprivileged areas. This has always been the top concern for us. I have always believed in equal educational opportunities to everyone irrespective of their backgrounds. With STEPapp, there will not be any differences when it comes to providing a level playing field for students all across, getting quality and fun learning educational experiences through this gamified format of e-learning.

Q. On this journey, what challenges have you faced and how did you overcome them?

Praveen Tyagi: I and my team at STEPapp have always aimed to provide universal access to quality education for every child in every corner of the country using technology and gamification. One of the biggest challenges that came before us was to reach out and build connectivity in remote areas and provide them the e-learning experience. There was also an issue of improper infrastructure to provide school education in many areas in the country.

After extensive research and development of STEPapp, we are happy to successfully implement the offline feature in our app to provide a platform to educate children in the underprivileged areas. With STEPapp, students can now learn and revise the topics thoroughly without any disruption at the ease of their homes.

Q. Amitabh Bachchan would be joining you as a brand ambassador. What do you have to say about that? How do you think it will help the app come in limelight?

Praveen Tyagi: Amitabh Bachchan is a legendary actor who has marked his presence in the industry for a long period of time. Being in such a respectful position, he is not only a great personality but is one of the most trusted and genuine brand influencers. He believes that the future of our country lies in the education of our children. He further adds that STEPapp has made learning interesting and rewarding for students with the innovation of introducing learning through games.

With the trust of a remarkable person like Mr Bachchan, we firmly believe in keeping the confidence of parents and teachers who will join hands with us to build the future of the children of our country.

Q. What are the things that you are going to venture into the future?

Praveen Tyagi: With a gamified, interactive and adaptive learning approach by STEPapp, we are focusing on the successful implementation of our app in every sector, every region, and corner of the country. We are concentrating on giving out equal opportunities to every child, irrespective of where they come from. Furthermore, we are aiming at helping the parents and teachers to make an informed decision on the basis of the student’s performance that is notified to them on a regular basis.

The post People think the digital education system is replacing traditional school education: Praveen Tyagi, Founder and CEO of STEPapp appeared first on The Tech Outlook.

With changing trends of the internet, everything is changing rapidly – even marketing techniques. Kuldeep Chaudhary, CEO & Co-Founder, ADOHM talks to Tech Outlook about his venture ADOHM and what and how they do to keep the business growing.

What was the inspiration behind starting this platform?

Kuldeep Chaudhary: The thought behind starting this venture of our own was to develop the best MarTech product in the industry. That was achieved by gathering raw and polished thoughts and building the best product that helps in making Marketing easier.

What kind of expectations do you have with Indian users/ customers?

Kuldeep Chaudhary: There is more to it than what meets the eye. We want the consumers to be aware of who their target audiences are, the platforms they should use for their marketing activities. We want them to know what international markets are doing to tap the audiences and how different their activities are when compared with us.

What are the key factors you keep in mind while handling the marketing of different businesses?

Kuldeep Chaudhary: Factors to keep in mind while executing or handling the clients’ business are: Firstly, to know who their audiences are, secondly getting the geography right and managing the budgets right. We want to generate leads depending on the manpower capabilities of an organisation.

With the constantly changing world of technology, what kind of challenges do you face?

Kuldeep Chaudhary: The market is resistant to adopt changes, customers need to understand there is a constant requirement of change management. Technology gets obsolete over a period of time, hence reducing the life cycle of the innovation. Finally, to make the clients understand how new technology is going to support them.

The post There is a constant requirement of change management: Kuldeep Chaudhary appeared first on The Tech Outlook.

A one-stop platform that networks & supports school ecosystems to be future-ready, Zamit is an information, engagement and interaction platform that networks schools, students, teachers, parents, and school service providers.

Zamit is a brainchild of MASH Virtual who are London based creators, actively building AR/VR applications, games, etc. And that is why we got in touch with Aarul Malaviya, Founder of MASH Virtual, to understand how the program works, what is ZQ, challenges the platform and its creators face, and much more:

Q.      What is zamit all about?

Zamit being a one-stop platform that networks & supports school ecosystems to be future-ready offers various functionalities such as search, compare, rate & review school, podcasts, edutainment & engaging activities. Zamit users can earn and redeem zamit points for merchandise and services by using different features offered by the app. The ZKiT program is a unique, customized support system based on the school’s ZQ (Zamit Quotient), Future Readiness Index. The ZKiT includes a range of services:

ZPoD – Zamit Professional Development Services: Seminars, Workshops and Professional development programmes.

ZIP – Zamit Internship Programme: A programme that offers students Internship and Apprenticeship opportunities.

ZISA – Zamit International School Awards: A first of its kind stakeholder-driven annual recognition award that recognises Schools, Principals, Teachers, Parents and non-teaching Staff of Pre-schools and K-12 schools.

ZCAS – Zamit Centralised Admissions Services: A comprehensive Web and Mobile App-based an end-to-end solution that simplifies the admissions process for prospective parents & schools.

ZFREC – Zamit Future Readiness Experience Centre: A physical space that offers students access to future-ready resources & expert guidance for admissions, careers, placements, fitness, cybersecurity, and many other areas. The ZFREC also offers various programmes that will help them prepare for the Uncertain, Complex and Ambiguous) world by helping them improve their Learning Power, develop the right mindset with future readiness skills that are critical for living and working in the age of Artificial Intelligence.

Q. As it is a brainchild of London based creators, what real-time challenges did you witness when the app was executed in India?

The creator is currently London based but by ethnicity, he is Indian and has done his schooling up until Grade 10 in India. Being one of a kind product in the market, getting the right structure which will benefit both the parents & the schools was our major challenge.

Q.      Over time, ZAMIT has managed to come in the top 10 apps. How does it feel? How has the journey been till date?

In one word “Exciting”. The journey has been certainly rewarding and miles to go. We’re keeping it dynamic and ever-evolving with our ear to the ground as more & more Schools start to see the sense in getting future-ready.

Q.      What kind of services do you offer to schools and parents? In what specific areas is it helpful for them?

We assist schools & parents to make the students future-ready.
 SCHOOLS

• The World’s first Future Ready Indexing ( ZQ: Zamit quotient ) which is an audit of the collective future-ready skills
• Zamit Keep In Touch Program (ZKIT), a series of customized workshops & which supports teachers in remaining Future-ready.
• We offer them Live streaming of school events
• Free of cost online teachers’ resources
• Talks by eminent educationists on contemporary topics
• The Zamit student internship program (ZIP)

PARENTS

• Curated news & events from schools & school education both local & global
• Parenting tips both in audio & video formats
• Genuine school reviews from parents & students together with a ‘search rate review’ schools feature on their mobile handset
• A storyboard in multi-languages where content & language is edited by language experts for appropriateness and age indicators
• Directory of tutors, coaching centres, after school activities & professional development institutes.

Q.       What is ZQ? How does it work?

ZQ stands for Zamit Quotient. The ZQ of an institute is the score built up around an algorithm of educational best practices, processes & systems. This includes curriculum delivery, innovativeness, co-curricular programs & technology integration that will prepare the students & faculty for the 21^st century. The ZQ for educational institutes demonstrates schools’ collective strength in providing students with life skills, adaptability & critical thinking in the Volatile, Uncertain, Complex, Ambiguous (VUCA) world.

The post Zamit assists schools & parents to make the students future-ready: Aarul Malaviya, Founder of MASH Virtual appeared first on The Tech Outlook.