Geek Appeal: New gadgets & apps on the block

The Tech Panda takes a look at recently launched gadgets & apps in the market.

Gaming: Updates from FAU-G: Domination

Nazara Publishing and Dot9 Games’ latest updates from its upcoming Made-in-India military shooter, FAU-G: Domination. In the run up to a mid-2025 release date, the game has some new features which gamers can experience in the next beta tentatively scheduled at the end of the month.

Features

• Slide — now you can close the gap between you and your opponents by sliding across the battlefield. 
• Tactical gameplay — following player feedback and our internal testing FAU-G: Domination matches take place at a deliberate pace where strategic moves are as important as headshots.
• Map rework— Basti has been reworked following player feedback and internal testing for more intense and close firefights.
• Graphics improvements — new lighting and high-res visuals for all maps.

Fintech: 900 additional ATMs across the country

Findi Ltd (ASX: FND), through its majority-owned Indian subsidiary Transaction Solutions International (India) Pvt Ltd (TSI), has secured a significant contract with Union Bank of India to deploy 900 additional ATMs across the country. This strategic partnership, valued at approximately INR 500 crore in revenue and INR 200 crore in EBITDA over a 7+1 year period, further strengthens Findi’s position as India’s most capital-efficient and trusted Brown Label ATM (BLA) service provider. Findi, through TSI, currently has over 9,000+ Brown Label ATMs in its portfolio, covering 13 major Indian banks, including SBI, HDFC Bank, and Central Bank of India.

Deepak Verma, MD and CEO, Findi said, “We are excited to partner with Union Bank of India in this significant expansion of our ATM network. This partnership highlights the trust that leading Indian banks place in Findi’s expertise and efficiency as a partner. By expanding our footprint, we are enhancing banking access, particularly in semi-urban and rural areas, while driving financial inclusion and supporting India’s vision for a more connected, digital economy.”

App: Pet Rides, a service for customers riding with their pet

BluSmart, South Asian all-electric ride-hailing service and EV charging infrastructure network, launched ‘Pet Rides’, its latest service for customers riding with their pet. Recognizing the growing need for convenient and reliable pet-friendly transportation, BluSmart has introduced a pet-exclusive EV fleet equipped to enable a safe, stress-free and comfortable commute for riders with dogs and cats.

Anirudh Arun, Co-founder and CEO, BluSmart Fleet, said, “At BluSmart, we believe that the best journeys are shared with loved ones, including our furry family members. The newly launched ‘Pet Rides’ service is a testament to our commitment to provide inclusive and convenient transportation solutions tailored to our riders’ needs. We understand the challenges pet parents face when it comes to travelling with their companions, and we’re thrilled to offer a service that makes these journeys safe and enjoyable for all.”

Features

• Available in Delhi and Gurugram, these pet rides can be pre-booked for scheduled classic and rental trips.
• BluSmart rides for pet travel are cleaned after every trip, equipped with foldable dog-seat hammocks for pet comfort and carrier space, and designed for optimal ventilation.
• All driver partners are pet lovers and understand the unique needs of the four-legged passengers.
• When booking a ride in Delhi and Gurugram, customers will see an option to travel with their pet at the bottom of the app. They can also access the service by clicking a banner on the app and schedule the ride for their desired slots.

App: Location-based parental control app

US-based Parent Geenee Inc. announced the global B2C launch of its location-based parental control app in Chennai today. India is among the largest and primary target markets for the B2C part of the new app. Parent Geenee allows parents to customize their child’s screen time based on where they are—at home, school, or even specific rooms within the house. Actor R Madhavan who has joined the venture as an investor and strategic partner was present at a press event held on the occasion.

An elated Sasi Naga, Founder & Chairman, Parent Geenee Inc., said, “A father of 3 young children myself, when Hari (Co-founder) approached me with his idea of a location-based parental control app, I fell for it in a jiffy. The first big booster of confidence came when I met Maddy who instantly said yes when I discussed the idea with him. In fact, to my surprise, he went one step ahead and agreed to play an active role in the venture. We chose India as we believe it’s at the cusp of a tectonic digital shift combined with increased wealth, making device access no longer a luxury for a growing number of its urban population. The initial response has been overwhelming, and we look forward to quickly growing in the Indian market and in the hearts of millions of Indian parents.”

Features

• Location-Based App Restrictions: Set custom Safe Zones where apps are automatically restricted
• Chill zones: With an optional Parent Geenee Bluetooth Beacon, parents can ensure chill zones in an otherwise all apps blocked Safe Zone.
• The Wish Feature: Instead of outright denial, Parent Geenee lets children request temporary access to restricted apps—teaching them digital discipline while giving parents the final say.
• Effortless Setup & Multi-Device Management: With a one-step QR code linking process, parents can easily manage multiple children’s devices under a single account.
• Parent Geenee has a two-tier subscription model: Free and Premium. The Free version allows you to connect 1 child device, set up 1 safe zone, approve 2 app requests per week, filter inappropriate content, and receive location updates and tracking.
• The Premium version expands capabilities, enabling you to connect up to 4 child devices, set up 6 safe zones, approve unlimited app requests, and filter inappropriate content.
• Parent Geenee is now available on iOS in India, UK and US with an updated version for the Android is expected soon. The Beacon accessory is available for purchase in the U.S., U.K. and India via the official Parent Geenee website.

ACs: Sharp’s Reiryou, Seiyro, and Plasma Chill series

SHARP Business Systems (India) Pvt. Ltd., a wholly owned subsidiary of SHARP Corporation Japan, launched its latest innovations in air conditioning technology: the Reiryou, Seiyro, and Plasma Chill series. These advanced air conditioners promise unparalleled cooling performance, energy efficiency, and advanced filters for advanced air purification, tailored to meet the diverse needs of Indian consumers.

“India is a vital market for Sharp, and we are committed to strengthening our presence here,” said Osamu Narita, Managing Director of SHARP Business Systems (India). “Sharp has long been associated with cutting-edge technology, reliability, and excellence. Our vision is to position Sharp as a trusted brand that enriches lives through innovation, offering products that align with the aspirations and lifestyles of Indian consumers. This reaffirms our dedication to delivering solutions that enhance quality of life and set new benchmarks in the industry.”

Features

Reiryou Series: Premium Performance and Efficiency

• Tonnage Options: 1.5 Ton to 2 Ton
• Cooling Capacity: 5000W to 6270W
• Energy Rating: 3-Star and 5-Star options
• Introductory launch offers -7 years comprehensive warranty
• 7 in 1 convertible with 4-way swing
• High ambient cooling at 58-degrees
• Designed for larger spaces and those seeking high cooling efficiency with energy-saving features

Seiryo Series: Advanced Cooling, Everyday Comfort

• Tonnage Options: 1 Ton to 1.5 Ton
• Cooling Capacity: 3350W to 5210W
• Energy Rating: 3-Star and 5-Star options

Plasma Chill Series

• Tonnage Options: 1 Ton to 1.5 Ton
• Cooling Capacity: 3350W to 4700W
• Energy Rating: 3-Star
• Especially crafted for homes that demand efficient cooling combined with reliability.

Gaming: Mobile-based virtual world blending multiplayer gaming

Dirtcube Interactive, a game and game-tech studio based out of Mumbai, has officially launched GameStarz, a groundbreaking mobile-based virtual world blending multiplayer gaming, competitive play, and social interaction, which is now rolled out to gamers in India. Following extensive development and a successful early access phase, GameStarz is poised to redefine the gaming landscape with its unique fusion of immersive experiences and player-first engagement.

“We are thrilled to bring GameStarz to a broader audience and introduce a gaming experience that goes beyond traditional gameplay,” said Mikhail Bhuta, Co-Founder & Tech Lead, Dirtcube Interactive LLP. “Our vision has always been to create an ecosystem where gamers can not only compete but also build meaningful connections in a dynamic and interactive world.”

Features

• Users can engage in skill-based challenges, participate in tournaments, and interact with fellow gamers through an integrated social experience.
• The game’s backend infrastructure is powered by Specter, Dirtcube Interactive’s proprietary all-in-one backend platform, which streamlines game economy management, player progression, leaderboards, dynamic achievements, real-time competitions, and LiveOps. By leveraging Specter, GameStarz ensures a smooth, scalable, and immersive experience for players while enabling developers to focus on delivering high-quality gameplay without backend complexities.
• GameStarz is available on both iOS and Android, offering an intuitive interface and robust gameplay mechanics that cater to both casual players and competitive gamers.

Audiotech: A new lineup of TWS & Neckbands

U&i, a lifestyle tech accessories brand, launched Classy Series, a new lineup of TWS and Neckbands – TWS-9009, TWS-4419, UiNB-4347, UiNB-2142, UiNB-2151 and UiNB-1098.

“At U&i, we continuously innovate to bring advanced audio solutions to our customers,” said Mr. Paresh Vij, Founder and Director of U&i. “The Classy Series embodies our commitment to quality and performance, offering exceptional sound clarity, advanced noise cancellation, and long-lasting battery life. Every product in this series is backed by a 1-year warranty, ensuring reliability and customer satisfaction.”

Features

• TWS-9009 (Classy Series): TWS-9009 stands out with its striking modern design, featuring a unique clear(transparent) stem and case, offering a sleek contemporary look that sets it apart. This powerhouse delivers a superior audio experience, boasting a quad-mic system for crystal-clear calls, 32dB noise cancellation for immersive sound, 60ms low latency for a perfect gaming experience, a powerful 10mm driver, and sweat and water resistance for active lifestyles. Equipped with Advanced ANC + ENC, it significantly reduces background noise, delivering crystal-clear calls and immersive sound, with up to 50 hours of playback time and 150 days of standby time. The device is backed by a 300mAh charging case, ensuring long hours of uninterrupted entertainment.
• TWS-4419 (Classy Series): TWS-4419 is designed to offer enhanced noise reduction technology, ensuring clear audio transmission for both calls and music. It boasts of 11MM driver, 4 mics, 3 transparency modes, 60ms Ultra Low Latency, 60 hours of playback time, IPX 4 sweat and splash resistance, perfect for outdoors and workouts. Featuring ANC + ENC, this model minimizes ambient noise, making it an excellent option for those who prioritize clarity and focus in their audio experience. With a sleek and modern design, it guarantees an ergonomic fit and comfort for long usage sessions. This model is available in 3 colors – black, white and blue.
• UiNB-4347 (Classy Series Neckband): UiNB-4347 stands out with its stylish and ergonomic design, ensuring comfort for extended wear. It features a 10mm driver unit, magnetic earbuds, 40ms low latency, splash & sweat proof, Environmental Noise Cancellation (ENC), allowing users to enjoy clear and noise-free communication. The powerful battery life ensures long-lasting performance with 50 hours of playback time and 500 hours of standby time, making it a reliable choice for those on the go. It is available in three colors – black, silver and purple.
• UiNB-2142 (Classy Series Neckband): UiNB-2142 is designed to offer an exceptional blend of comfort and performance. It features a 10mm driver unit, dual device pairing option, splash & sweat protection, high-fidelity sound output and 65ms low latency, ensuring clear audio for music and calls. The lightweight design makes it ideal for prolonged use, while its extended battery life provides 50 hours of uninterrupted playback time and 500 hours of standby time. It comes with noise cancellation technology, hence ensuring a seamless listening experience even in noisy environments. It is available in three colors – black, green and blue.
• UiNB-2151 (Classy Series Neckband): UiNB-2151 delivers a rich and immersive sound experience with its advanced audio drivers. Designed for professionals, sports and music enthusiasts alike, it ensures stable connectivity and crisp audio clarity. The high-capacity battery allows users to enjoy long hours of music playback and call time. With its sleek and durable design, this model is built to withstand daily usage while offering an ergonomic fit. It is available in three color options – white+black, black and yellow+black.
• UiNB-1098 (Classy Series Neckband): UiNB-1098 is a premium addition to the Classy Series, offering noise-free communication and Hi-Fi audio clarity. Equipped with ENC technology, it effectively reduces background noise, making calls clearer and music more immersive. Its long battery life ensures uninterrupted usage, while the lightweight and stylish build makes it an excellent choice for users seeking both performance and aesthetics. It comes in four color options.

UPS: The GTP-InfiniteX Series at Elecrama 2025

BPE, a company in power innovation with 25 years of excellence, launched its latest breakthrough – the GTP-InfiniteX Series at Elecrama 2025. Designed to redefine efficiency and reliability, this three-phase online UPS is set to transform power backup solutions for data centers, industries, healthcare, IT & telecom, and smart infrastructure.

“The GTP-InfiniteX Series is engineered to optimize energy efficiency, with large power and small footprint. As industries continue their digital transformation, a reliable and efficient power solution becomes essential, and the GTP-InfiniteX is designed to deliver just that,” said BPE Founder and Group MD Amitansu Satpathy.

Features

• With an inbuilt isolation transformer, it delivers superior power protection, enhancing system reliability and safeguarding critical operations from power disturbances.
• GTP-InfiniteX Series is TUV India certified and equipped with 97% efficiency.
• It is engineered to handle all kinds of loads, including regenerative load. The power range offered include 500kVA, 600kVA, 800kVA and 1200kVA (Single Frame). GTP InfiniteX Series is built by a strong R&D team for unmatched reliability.
• Scalable Power: Ranges from 300 to 1200 kVA/kW, catering to diverse industry needs.
• Exceptional Efficiency: >97% efficiency, reducing energy consumption and operating costs.
• Advanced Power Protection: Built-in isolation transformer for enhanced safety and system longevity.
• Ideal for Critical Applications: Designed for data centers, IT & telecom, healthcare, and industrial operations.
• Certified Excellence: Backed by ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 27001, ISO 45001.

App: PJ Masks characters in early learning app

Kiddopia, the award-winning early learning app, has teamed up with Hasbro, a leading games, IP and toy company, to bring the beloved PJ Masks characters to its immersive digital platform. This collaboration will introduce exciting, educational, and interactive experiences featuring Catboy, Owlette, and Gekko, offering preschoolers a whole new way to engage with their favorite nighttime heroes.

“We are thrilled to partner with Hasbro to bring PJ Masks to Kiddopia,” said Dhaval Sheth, COO, KIddopia. “Our mission is to make learning fun, and by integrating these beloved characters into our platform, we are creating an exciting new way for kids to explore, learn, and play.”

Features

• Interactive mini-games that reinforce early math, literacy, and cognitive skills
• Creative storytelling experiences featuring the PJ Masks heroes
• Engaging problem-solving challenges that promote teamwork and resilience

Gaming: An IPL style auction gameplay where users can create a dream team through virtual auction

Gamerji, Indian esports tournament platform, launched its first sports gameplay ‘SportsDraft’. This unique IPL style auction gameplay allows users to draft their favourite players through a virtual auction thus creating a dream team. Registered players can compete with their friends or join a public league to build their winning squads and earn rewards. Sportsdraft offers cricket enthusiasts the opportunity to own a team and enjoy the upcoming IPL season in a thrilling manner.

Soham Thacker, CEO & Founder Gamerji Says, “With India’s unbeatable run in the ongoing Champions Trophy and world’s biggest league IPL starting in just a few weeks, the cricket fever is on. Our users and telecom customers’ feedback encouraged us to develop Sportsdraft. It is a non RMG gameplay designed to engage players in building their squads using points earned on the Gamerji platform. The official game launch is scheduled for next week but traction from the beta launch has already shown 35% of Gamerji users playing Sportsdraft, we expect this to double as we reach IPL season commencement.”

Steps to Participate in a Virtual Auction league or single (picker) matches

• Join A league: Access Gamerji platform via website or app and select a league of your interest
• Participate in Auction: Engage in a virtual auction where you strategically allocate budget to bid on players to build squads for various season namely IPL, ICC tournaments and Domestic T20 leagues or just a picker game (single game).  Each player has a base price and the bidding window works on a timer mechanism. If you don’t make a decision within those 10 seconds, the player is automatically assigned to the team with the highest bid. If someone places a bid, the timer resets again.
• Manage your Team:  Utilize features like the Daily Picker Mode to draft players for individual matches. Designate a Power Player to earn double points during games. Challenge others in Daily 1v1 Matches for head-to-head competition to earn bonus points.
• Win Rewards: Team’s performance is automatically scored based on real match outcomes. Winners are rewarded with Gamerji diamonds which can be redeemed for gift vouchers also listed on the Gamerji website and in the app.