Bangalore’s go to Banh Mi spot: Candice’s Gourmet Sandwiches

Bengaluru, 8th September; A staple of Vietnamese street food, the Banh Mi gets a gourmet makeover at Candice’s Gourmet Sandwiches, the globally inspired brand crafted by Chef Candice Lock. Known for curating iconic flavours from around the world, Candice’s take on the Banh Mi is fresh and full of flavour.

Tofu Banh Mi Sandwich

Expect a crusty baguette filled with grilled lemongrass-marinated goodness, balanced by house-pickled radish and carrot, cucumber, jalapeños, fresh cilantro, ginger scallion oil, sriracha, and their signature house mayo, each element adding texture and punch.

Choose from options like grilled chicken, savoury pulled pork, marinated tofu, or the bold roasted cauliflower, each one layered with punchy flavours, crisp textures, and that signature Vietnamese balance of sweet, sour, spicy, and umami.

It’s flavour-forward, thoughtfully crafted, and a must-try for sandwich lovers across the city.

Pure Storage Named a Leader in 2025 Gartner® Magic Quadrant™ for Enterprise Storage

Bengaluru, India- September 8, 2025 — Pure Storage (NYSE: PSTG), the IT pioneer that delivers the world’s most advanced data storage technology and services, today announced it has been recognized as a Leader in the 2025 Gartner® Magic Quadrant™ for Enterprise Storage Platforms, positioned highest in execution and furthest in vision.

Gartner defines enterprise storage platforms as the market consisting of products, value-based services and delivery methods designed to support diverse block, file and object storage workloads and use cases[1]. In our opinion, this year’s new Enterprise Storage Platforms category reinforces what organizations around the world understand—the Pure Storage Platform delivers unmatched agility and risk reduction with a simple, unified storage platform and flexible as-a-service experience for the broadest range of uses across on-premises, public cloud, and hybrid environments. For the previous five years, Pure Storage was positioned highest and furthest in the Gartner® Magic Quadrant™ for Primary Storage Platforms.

The rise of AI is creating exponential growth of data volumes and business demands. But traditional storage models have been unable to keep up—creating fragmentation, silos, and data sprawl. Delivered by the Pure Storage Platform, an Enterprise Data Cloud (EDC) enables organizations to unify data from across their estate into a virtualized cloud of data that is governed by an intelligent control plane for easy management – all of which is delivered as a service. Powered by Pure Fusion™, the Pure Storage Platform allows customers to create their own Enterprise Data Cloud—empowering them to manage their global data estate with the control, automation and tracking needed to lead in a data-driven world.

“Pure Storage delivers data storage and management at scale—automating and simplifying customers’ global data storage environment,” said Charles Giancarlo, Chief Executive Officer, Pure Storage. “Only Pure Storage has innovated an architectural approach that allows customers to better manage their global data, not just their storage.”

Platform Innovation

Pure Storage’s continued innovation of the Pure Storage Platform is transforming the way customers manage their data, helping them solve challenges of today and into the future. Key innovations in 2025 include:

 Delivering control and improving compliance through automation.

At the heart of the autonomous platform is Pure Fusion™, which unifies storage as a pool of adaptable resources. Pure Fusion now has workload automation with presets and remote provisioning for fleetwide file, block, and object.

Performance & scalability for modern workloads & unstructured data, all on a unified data plane.

The expansion of its next-generation Pure Storage FlashArray™ and Pure Storage FlashBlade® offerings are designed for the most demanding, high-performance workloads and to scale seamlessly for future applications and demands. Addressing the explosive growth of unstructured data, Pure Storage also announced extended object support to FlashArray, which will create a true single architecture for block, file and object across the entire Pure Storage platform.

Reducing the risk of human error and strengthening security across workloads.

Built-in compliance and improved cyber resilience are embedded across the Pure Storage platform, further minimizing risk through security and governance policies, along with third party cyber security integrations. Rubrik is the first cyber security partner to integrate with Pure Storage’s new workflow orchestration capability, enhancing threat detection for both production and non-production data. Additionally, CrowdStrike and Pure Storage are working together to provide the first validated, on-premises, resilient and secure storage for CrowdStrike LogScale.

Customer Validation

Pure Storage believes Gartner recognition of Pure Storage is further validated by customers. As of August 21, 2025, customers give Pure Storage an Overall Rating of 4.9 out of 5 in the Enterprise Storage Platforms market, with 98% of reviewers willing to recommend, based on 689 reviews on Gartner Peer Insights™.

  1. “Pure Amazement: FlashArray is the most rock solid storage platform we have ever had.” – IT Manager, Energy and Utilities Industry
  2. “It just works. Been a very solid experience and product from start to finish.” – Engineer, Healthcare and Biotech Industry
  3. “Impressive Performance and Strong Data Protection Features Stand Out for This Product.” – IT Leader, Banking Industry

ARAPL to Invest 8-10 Million in Humro, Aims for Growth in US Robotics Market

Pune, India – September 8, 2025: Humro (an ARAPL RaaS brand and subsidiary of Affordable Robotic and Automation Limited, BSE: 541402, NSE SYMBOL: AFFORDABLE), a leader in autonomous material handling and robotics solutions, today announced a proposed investment of USD 8–10 million into its wholly owned subsidiary Humro (formerly known as ARAPL RaaS). This proposal will further process after getting approval of Board of Directors of the company.

The fresh infusion will be funded through a combination of promoter contribution, preferential issue, and debt. As part of the plan, the company’s promoter will invest USD 3 million in his personal capacity by diluting a proportional stake in ARAPL. This was already approved by board of directors of the company on the board meeting held on 29th August 2025.The balance will be raised through preferential allotment and debt instruments. The proceeds will be utilised towards capital expenditure and to meet working capital requirements for servicing Humro’s current order book.

Humro currently has a strong pipeline worth of 32 crore expected to translate into revenues by FY26. With a growing opportunity in the warehousing and autonomous material handling sector in the United States and Europe, and with in-principle technology approvals already secured from marquee global clients, Humro is strategically positioned to capitalise on India’s cost competitiveness in a post-tariff environment.

Commenting on the development, Mr Milind Padole, Chairman, ARAPL, said:
“Being a deep-tech robotics player competing in a high-potential market, HumRo has ticked all the right boxes since its inception in 2021. We have built a robust product portfolio, secured validations from marquee clients, and developed a healthy order pipeline. As the only Indian company in this space, we made an early bet on our capabilities by entering a highly competitive market like the US. The journey took time, but with strong foundations now in place, the stage is set to scale up operations and strengthen our US footprint. This round of funding will be pivotal in accelerating our next phase of growth.”

Last week, HumRo announced that, effective November, it will implement a 10% price adjustment across all products as part of its comprehensive strategy to address recent tariff changes on imports into the United States. Despite this revision, the company emphasised that its solutions will remain 15–20% more cost-effective than those of its nearest competitors. Underscoring its long-term growth outlook, HumRo reiterated that its unique combination of affordability, rapid deployment, and software-driven efficiency continues to set it apart in a market where reliability and cost savings are critical. Looking ahead, the company affirmed its commitment to expanding its footprint in the US and capitalising on emerging opportunities in advanced automation solutions.

Homes as Heirlooms: The Emotional Value of Luxury Real Estate in NCR

8th  September, 2025, Delhi NCR: Luxury homes in NCR are no longer viewed merely as markers of affluence or shrewd investments; they are increasingly being cherished as heirlooms, legacies that families aspire to pass down through generations. In a region where property ownership has always carried deep cultural significance, the meaning of luxury is evolving from opulence alone to something more about spaces that hold stories, memories, and traditions. Buyers are investing in an enduring symbol of identity, belonging, and aspiration, one that can stand as a family’s emotional anchor for years to come.

Estate in NCR For many families, a luxury home is the anchor around which generations gather, celebrate milestones, and weave shared memories. In India’s cultural ethos, property has always been synonymous with security, prestige, and permanence, and in the NCR’s luxury segment, this sentiment is only deepening. Here, “luxury” is no longer defined solely by scale or extravagance; it is measured by timeless design, enduring comfort, and the ability to create a sense of belonging. These homes embody continuity, carrying forward both emotional and cultural value that extends well beyond material worth.

The NCR has emerged as the epicentre of this heirloom-driven evolution in luxury housing, shaped by its concentration of HNIs and UHNIs who view real estate as both a legacy and a lifestyle statement. Micro-markets in Delhi-NCR are witnessing a surge in demand from families seeking homes that hold enduring value—spaces that will remain relevant and aspirational for future generations.

According to a CBRE-ASSOCHAM report, India’s luxury housing segment witnessed an 85% year-on-year growth in the first half of 2025, with nearly 7,000 high-end residential units sold across top cities. Delhi-NCR led this surge, clocking sales of approximately 4,000 luxury units (a threefold annualised increase), accounting for 57% of the total luxury segment.

Besides, developers in NCR are increasingly attuned to this heirloom mindset, crafting homes that are built to endure both in form and in meaning. Timeless architecture, sustainable construction practices, and layouts designed for multi-generational living are becoming central to their vision. Beyond structural longevity, the focus is on bespoke amenities that allow homes to age gracefully, retaining their charm and value as families grow.

A clear reflection of this philosophy can be seen in the vision of Prateek Group, which has long championed the idea of homes as lasting legacies. Guided by a belief that true luxury lies in legacy, Prateek Group crafts homes with precision, sustainability, and emotional depth—spaces envisioned to resonate across generations. With sprawling green landscapes, thoughtfully planned residences, and a wide array of wellness and lifestyle amenities, Prateek Grand City in Siddharth Vihar goes beyond being a residential township to create a self-sufficient environment where families can truly thrive. It is designed as a place where generations can grow together, build lasting bonds, and remain connected through the years. On the other hand, Prateek Canary in Noida’s Sector-150 stands as a benchmark of aspirational living, designed for families who wish to pass down not just a home, but a symbol of refined luxury and timeless elegance. Its low-density design, resort-style club amenities, and expansive balconies overlooking lush greens reflect a deep understanding of modern, multi-generational lifestyles.

Thus, the future of luxury real estate in NCR lies in its ability to balance emotional and financial value, with homes increasingly positioned as intergenerational assets rather than short-term investments. This shift is steering the market toward residences that are deeply personalised, curated to reflect not just lifestyle preferences but family legacies. By blending heritage with modern aspirations and future-ready design, NCR is redefining what it means to invest in a home.

OnePlus Nord Buds 3R Now on Open Sale: Your Week Long Audio Companion

Bangalore, September 8, 2025: Global technology brand OnePlus has recently unveiled the OnePlus Nord Buds 3r, its latest generation of entry-level true wireless earbuds. Starting today, the newly launched TWS earbuds are available for open sale at a special launch price of INR 1,599. With exceptional battery life, immersive sound, dual-connectivity, and Google Fast Pair, the OnePlus Nord Buds 3r is designed to keep up with your dynamic lifestyle

Power That Lasts a Week and Beyond

The OnePlus Nord Buds 3r sets a new standard for battery performance with an astounding 54-hour total playtime. Certified by TÜV Rheinland Battery Health Certification, it maintains consistent performance even after 1,000 charging cycles, guaranteeing reliable battery life year after year. 

Additionally, the IP55 dust and water resistance rating (earbuds only) ensures durability, making these your worry-free companion for workouts, rainy commutes, or dusty environments.

Immersive Audio Tailored For You

Equipped with 12.4mm titanium-coated dynamic drivers, the OnePlus Nord Buds 3r provides deep, powerful bass and crystal-clear sound for all your audio needs. With Sound Master EQ, choose from three pre-tuned EQ presets or customize your sound with a 6-band equalizer, to fine-tune low, mid, and high frequencies to match your preferences. 

For a cinematic listening experience, OnePlus 3D Audio (available with select OnePlus smartphones) creates a 360-degree soundstage with precise directional audio, placing you at the center of a musical universe. 

During calls, the 2-mic AI call noise cancellation with beamforming technology and anti-wind design ensures your voice is heard clearly, even in noisy environments, making every conversation seamless.

Smart, Seamless, and Eye-Catching Features

Stay connected with Bluetooth 5.4 and 47ms low latency in game mode, ensuring lag-free gaming and smooth audio syncing. Dual-device Connection lets you effortlessly switch between your phone, laptop, or tablet, while Google Fast Pair enables instant pairing with Android devices. A simple tap activates your Voice Assistant Shortcut for hands-free convenience.

The OnePlus Nord Buds 3r also features advanced functions, including AI Translation for real-time language support, Tap 2 Take (double-tap to capture photos), Aqua Touch for intuitive touch controls, and Find My Earbuds to locate misplaced buds. 

Renault Cuts Prices by Up to RS96,000, Extends Full GST Benefit to Customers

Mumbai; 8th September 2025: In a bold customer-first move, Renault India has announced that it will fully pass on the benefits of GST 2.0 across its entire product portfolio. This initiative reflects Renault’s deep commitment to enhancing accessibility and affordability for Indian customers, while delivering premium, future-ready vehicles

Renault New Kiger

The revised pricing, with reductions of up to ₹96,395, will be effective on all deliveries made on or after September 22, 2025, coinciding with the first day of Navratri — a time that marks new beginnings for millions of Indian families. However, customers can start booking their Renault car at the new prices immediately across all dealerships nationwide.

Venkatram Mamillapalle, Managing Director of Renault India, said: “Passing on the full GST 2.0 benefit is a reflection of our unwavering commitment to our customers. We believe this timely initiative will not only make our cars more accessible but also energize demand during the festive season. It’s a step forward in our mission to deliver innovation, value, and trust to every Indian household.”

This move significantly enhances the value proposition of Renault’s renewed product line-up, including the feature-rich Triber and Kiger, and is expected to drive strong momentum during the festive season.

Acer Launches Swift Air 16: Ultralight PC for Modern Professionals

Mumbai, India September 8, 2025:Acer today announced the new Swift Air 16 (SFA16-61M), the latest addition to its thin-and-light Swift laptop lineup. Developed for professionals who work on the go, the new model brings a compelling blend of cutting-edge AI computing, immersive visuals, and incredibly impressive design, resulting in a featherlight feel.

Acer-Swift-Air-16_01

At the core of the Swift Air 16 is the latest generation of AMD Ryzen™ AI 300 Series processors, featuring up to an AMD Ryzen™ AI 7 350 processor, enabling seamless execution of local AI applications and enhanced responsiveness while maintaining low power consumption. Equipped with powerful AMD processors, Swift Air 16 ensures robust performance for video conferencing, streaming, editing, and creative workflows.

As a Copilot+ PC, the Swift Air 16 unlocks access to unique AI experiences such as Recall (preview), Click to Do (preview), and Improved Windows Search to streamline collaboration, content creation, and productivity. Users also benefit from swift boot times, ample file storage, and smooth performance across demanding applications.

The Swift Air 16 is built for those who travel frequently and value mobility without compromising performance. The laptop’s elegant chassis is crafted from magnesium-aluminum alloy, offering reliable durability while keeping the weight under 1 kilogram (2.18 pounds), making it one of the lightest 16-inch laptops available. Plus, the device is available in four color profiles and fits effortlessly into any work setting, from coffee shops and co-working spaces to boardrooms.

Users can choose between a 16-inch WQXGA+ AMOLED with a 120 Hz refresh rate or a WUXGA IPS display with a 60 Hz refresh rate option and a 16:10 aspect ratio for wide viewing and work space. The AMOLED option brings deep blacks, vivid colors, and exceptional clarity with full support for the DCI-P3 color gamut and 400 nits peak brightness – ideal for designers and freelancers.

Additional features include a 2MP FHD IR camera with privacy shutter, enabling secure facial recognition via Windows Hello and delivering crystal-clear video calls even in low-light conditions. The device is also equipped with dual speakers and dual microphones for immersive audio quality.

The Swift Air 16 hosts versatile connectivity options for peripherals and external displays. It comes with two full-function USB Type-C ports, USB 3.2 Type-A, and HDMI 1.4 with HDCP support. Wireless support includes Wi-Fi 6E and the latest Bluetooth standard, providing fast and stable connections wherever possible

Hettich Relaunches Hyderabad Experience Centre for Enhanced Customer Journey

Hyderabad, September 8, 2025 – Close on the heels of the launch of its Experience Centre in Bengaluru, Hettich inaugurated its revamped Experience Centre in Hyderabad, further strengthening its presence in South India. This move not only reaffirms Hettich’s commitment to the southern market but also marks the next step in its mission to bring globally renowned award-winning, German-engineered magical interior solutions comprising of furniture fittings, architectural door hardware, furniture lights and built-in kitchen appliances closer to design-conscious Indian consumers.

Hettich Relaunches Hyderabad Experience Centre for Enhanced Customer Journey

South India is a key market for Hettich, with customers who value investing in premium brands and look forward to indulging in high-quality, luxury interior solutions. The newly revamped Hyderabad Experience Centre has been redesigned to offer a deeply immersive and standardised customer experience that aligns with Hettich’s vision of inspiring, interactive, and innovative spaces. In addition to the in-centre experience, Hettich offers a suite of value-added services that extend beyond the showroom. Customers can benefit from free design services and doorstep consultations, enabling them to receive expert guidance.

In addition, a new warehouse facility has been inaugurated in the South to support quicker deliveries and better serviceability, reinforcing Hettich’s operational strength in the region.

Mr. Andre Eckholt, Managing Director – Hettich India, SAARC, Middle East & Africa, said, “We see a discerning customer base here in South India that deeply values design, functionality, and premium lifestyle choices. With the revamped Hyderabad centre and our continued investments in infrastructure and service, we are not only celebrating our legacy but also shaping the future of furniture fittings and interior solutions for this highly brand-conscious and quality-driven market.”

With its latest expansions and upgrades, Hettich continues to build on its legacy of trust, innovation, and design excellence, redefining how Indian consumers experience world-class interior solutions.

Celebrate Double Day 9/9 with Vietjet and Unlock Unbeatable Savings

Mumbai, September 8, 2025 – For one day only, Indian travellers can secure incredible fares to Vietnam with Vietjet’s exclusive Double Day 9/9 flash sale — featuring up to 99% off on flights connecting Delhi, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Kochi, Hyderabad, and Bengaluru with Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang. Passengers can also receive complimentary 20kg checked baggage, making it even easier to pack for their next adventure.

Flight crew

From 22:30 on September 8 to 21:30 on September 9, 2025 (IST), travellers can enter the promo code SUPERSALE99 when booking on www.vietjetair.com or the Vietjet Air mobile app to grab Eco tickets at unbeatable discounts of 99% (excluding taxes and fees). The promotion applies across Vietjet’s entire international and Vietnam domestic flight network for travel between October 1, 2025, and May 27, 2026 (*).

Additionally, from September 10 to September 23, 2025, passengers booking Eco tickets on India-Vietnam flights departing between November 5 and November 30, 2025, will also receive 20kg checked baggage for free. Simply select the 20kg option during booking at no extra cost and enjoy worry-free travel throughout the festive season. The baggage promotion also applies to other international routes to and from Vietnam with flight dates varying by route.

Indian travellers can take advantage of these promotions to explore Vietnam’s vibrant culture. Vietjet also offers seamless connections from Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City or Da Nang to many domestic Vietnamese destinations and popular hubs across Asia-Pacific.

Vietjet invites global travellers to discover dazzling festivals and cultural celebrations in Vietnam and across the world. From the enchanting Mid Autumn Festival, where streets come alive with colorful lanterns, mooncakes, and family gatherings, to the bustling year-end festivities, Vietnam offers unforgettable cultural experiences for every visitor. Travelers can also enjoy cultural celebrations across Asia and beyond from India’s Diwali and Korea’s Chuseok to Japan’s Tsukimi, Thailand’s Loy Krathong, and Australia’s Brisbane Festival.

On board, passengers can also enjoy Vietjet’s special Mid-Autumn flights on selected dates, featuring festive lanterns, in flight performances, and thoughtful gifts to share with loved ones bringing Vietnam’s traditions to the skies.

Mumbai Welcomes 12 Metre Electric Buses Under BEST PMI Partnership

Mumbai, 08 September 2025: In a significant step towards green mobility, PMI Electro Mobility’s- Mumbadevi Mobility, in collaboration with the Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST), has introduced the first batch of electric buses for the city of Mumbai.

PMI Mumbai Bus Launch Photo

At an official ceremony held at the BEST Office, Colaba Depot, 4 fully electric, 12-metre buses were flagged off today in the presence of Mr. Ashish Sharma, IAS, General Manager, BEST, who graced the occasion as the Chief Guest.

This deployment marks the beginning of an ambitious plan to introduce 250 electric buses in Mumbai, further strengthening the city’s public transport system while reducing its carbon footprint. The buses will operate from the Oshiwara Depot, strategically chosen to serve high-demand routes and enhance passenger convenience.

The new 12-metre buses, designed and built by PMI Electro Mobility, combine passenger comfort with sustainability. Each bus has seating for 36 passengers plus driver, with provision for wheelchair access and three foldable seats to maximize flexibility. A low-floor design (400 mm) enables easy boarding, especially for senior citizens and differently-abled passengers. Equipped with a 366.66 kWh LFP battery, the buses offer a range of up to 250 km on a single charge, making them ideal for Mumbai’s daily urban routes. The PMSM motor system ensures smooth and efficient operations, while onboard accessibility features provide a safe and comfortable travel experience.

Dr. Aanchal Jain, CEO of PMI Electro Mobility, said, “We are grateful to BEST for this opportunity to partner in their progressive vision for Mumbai’s public transport. This launch reflects the city’s strong commitment towards sustainable mobility, and we are proud to play a small role in supporting this journey. Together, we look forward to contributing to Mumbai’s greener and cleaner future.

Delivering these buses ahead of schedule is a testament to what can be achieved when authorities and industry work hand in hand. We sincerely appreciate the trust placed in us and remain committed to supporting India’s journey toward sustainable and future-ready public transport.”

Today, PMI Electro Mobility continues to redefine sustainable public transport across India with a presence in 31 cities and over 2,700 e-Buses deployed across key regions, from Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, Delhi, and Uttar Pradesh in the North, to West Bengal and Odisha in the East, Kerala in the South, and Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Goa in the West.