Samsung Expands Its AC Portfolio with 19 Models of BESPOKE AI WindFree AC Across Various Segments
GURUGRAM, India – 29th January 2025: Samsung, India’s largest consumer electronics brand, today launched its 2025 lineup of BESPOKE AI WindFree™ Air conditioners, a fusion of cutting-edge AI technology and premium design. With a focus on intelligent cooling, energy efficiency, and connected living, the new range of 19 models cater to the evolving demands of Indian consumers. These air conditioners are thoughtfully engineered to deliver comfort, convenience, and innovation while tackling the challenges of India’s extreme summers.
This range harnesses AI-driven innovations to adapt seamlessly to varying climate conditions, ensuring consistent comfort and maximum efficiency. The WindFree™ Cooling technology eliminates direct drafts, dispersing air gently through 23,000 micro holes, while the AI Fast & Comfort Cooling feature rapidly cools the space and intelligently transitions to energy-efficient settings for sustained comfort. Designed with modern lifestyles in mind, the range incorporates SmartThings connectivity, offering advanced features such as Map View for remote monitoring and Quick Remote for effortless control.
Adding more convenience to the lives of the work from home generation, BESPOKE AI WindFree™ ACs also connect seamlessly with Samsung’s SmartThings app using Wi-Fi allowing you to change settings or switch it on/off using Bixby voice assistant, Alexa and Google Home. You can also optimize cooling with smart AI Auto Cooling and automatically cool the room even before you reach home with the geo-fencing based Welcome Cooling feature. Powered with the new ‘Good Sleep’ mode, these ACs promote pleasant sleep throughout the night by adjusting the temperature according to sleep stages.
“We are excited to redefine the home cooling experience, while addressing the unique challenges of Indian summers with the 2025 Bespoke AI WindFree™ air conditioners. These Air Conditioners are a testament to Samsung’s commitment to innovation that enhances everyday living. By blending AI-driven cooling and energy efficiency, smart connectivity, and lifestyle-enhancing features, this range brings powerful AI tech innovation for the Indian consumer.,” said Ghufran Alam, Senior Director, Digital Appliances, Samsung India.
Samsung has had a stellar year in the Indian air conditioner market, with robust sales and strong momentum heading into 2025. With the launch of its Bespoke AI WindFree™ lineup, the company is positioning itself to lead the AI-driven revolution in the AC sector. By integrating smart AI features that optimize energy use and enhance user experience, this new range is set to elevate Samsung’s presence in the market.
AI-Driven Cooling and Energy Efficiency
The Bespoke AI WindFree™ ACs leverage cutting-edge AI technology to redefine cooling efficiency. The AI Energy Mode intelligently adjusts the cooling settings to save up to 30% energy. This addresses the top key buying factor for consumers while buying an air conditioner – the demand for energy-efficient appliances without compromising on comfort.
The AI Fast & Comfort Cooling feature ensures instant relief by rapidly reducing room temperature with maximum fan speed. Once the desired temperature is achieved, the system intelligently switches to WindFree™ Mode to maintain consistent cooling, ensuring a comfortable environment for activities like sleeping or entertaining guests.
The AI Digital Inverter control ensures uninterrupted cooling even when outdoor temperatures reach a scorching 58°C, providing reliability during India’s extreme summers.
Unparalleled Smart Features with SmartThings Integration
The new lineup comes with Samsung’s SmartThings platform, redefining how users interact with air conditioners. Indian consumers, in a research showed high preference for convenient operations like simple remote control pop up function via a smart app.This AC comes with features like Quick Remote allow users to control their AC’s power, mode, temperature, and air volume from their smartphone. This eliminates the hassle of locating a physical remote and ensures convenience at one’s fingertips.
The Map View feature offers a virtual 3D representation of the home, making it easy to monitor and control the AC remotely. Consumers can check vital metrics like room temperature, air quality, and energy consumption, ensuring a connected, smarter living experience. Compatibility with Bixby, Alexa, and Google Assistant enables voice control, making the interaction seamless and intuitive.
Welcome Cooling further enhances convenience by automatically starting the AC as users near their home, providing a perfectly comfortable environment upon arrival.
Dedicated WindFree Good Sleep Feature for Unmatched Rest
The WindFree Good Sleep feature is specifically designed to optimize the bedroom climate during the night. By carefully regulating temperature and humidity, it prevents sudden fluctuations that could disturb sleep, ensuring a restful and uninterrupted slumber. This feature is perfect for Indian consumers seeking comfort and relaxation in their everyday lives.
Enhanced Comfort and Hygiene
Unlike conventional filters, the Copper Anti-bacterial Filter redefines convenience and efficiency in air conditioner maintenance. Positioned externally on the top, it allows for easy removal and cleaning without the need to open any covers or exert force. Crafted from dense mesh, it effectively captures dust, ensuring the Heat Exchanger remains clean and operates efficiently. Additionally, the copper-infused yarn in the filter reduces certain airborne bacteria by up to 99% , contributing to a cleaner and healthier indoor environment.
Durability and Reliability
Built to last, the Bespoke AI WindFree™ ACs come with a 5-year comprehensive warranty and a 10-year warranty on the AI Inverter compressor. The inclusion of Durafin™ Ultra coating protects the heat exchanger from corrosion, ensuring long-term performance and durability.
Zouk expands offline presence with its sixth exclusive store in India
29th January 2025 – Proudly Indian bags and luggage brand Zouk has recently opened its first store at Phoenix Market City, Viman Nagar, Pune, the cultural heart of Maharashtra. This new location marks an exciting chapter in Zouk’s journey as the brand continues to bring its high-quality, ethically made products to more customers across India.
Zouk had recently raised $10 million in Series B to scale up the brand and expand its offline store network. It had also collaborated with Arjun Kapoor and Parineeti Chopra for its festive campaign.
With a focus on blending traditional Indian craftsmanship with contemporary designs, Zouk’s collection includes a variety of bags, from everyday handbags to versatile luggage bags, each crafted to be 100% vegan and cruelty-free. The brand’s commitment to ethical fashion has garnered a strong following, particularly among eco-conscious consumers looking for stylish alternatives.
“We are thrilled to launch our first store in Pune, a city that resonates with our values of innovation and a cruelty-free lifestyle.” said Pradeep Krishnakumar, Co-founder of Zouk, “This new opening is a testament to our growing community of customers who believe in supporting local, ethical brands. We are on track to reach double-digit store locations soon, bringing us closer to our goal of making Zouk a top choice for consumers across India.”
The store at Phoenix Market City, Viman Nagar, Pune, is designed to offer a personalized shopping experience, allowing customers to explore Zouk’s complete range up close and discover products that blend style with ethics. As the brand looks forward to continued expansion, shoppers can expect to see more Zouk stores across major cities in the coming months.
Ambuja Cements Hosts Khel Utsav for 400+ Students in Darlaghat
Shimla/Solan, 29 January 2025: Ambuja Cements, the cement and building material company of the diversified Adani Portfolio, is committed to facilitating equal access for all young athletes and sportspersons. Ambuja Cements, through CSR efforts, recently organised ‘Khel Utsav’ – a sports event aimed at fostering sportsmanship and promoting physical well-being among young students – near its Rauri plant in Darlaghat.
This community-focused event saw enthusiastic participation from over 400 students across 24 primary and upper primary schools, bringing the total attendance, including teachers, local dignitaries, and volunteers.
The ‘Khel Utsav’ featured a range of sports, tailored for different age groups and skill levels. Students from the upper primary section competed in volleyball, while primary students took part in dodgeball and relay races. Additionally, the event included a series of athletic races — 50m, 100m, and 200m — where students displayed their skills, teamwork, and resilience on the field.
Ambuja Cements’ CSR team under its Quality Education program not only offers a platform for students to showcase their talents but also encourages them to develop valuable life skills, including discipline and teamwork. Initiatives such as ‘Khel Utsav’ positively impact the local communities by promoting holistic growth and nurturing future athletes.
This event underscores Ambuja Cements’ commitment to empowering young individuals, fostering a spirit of unity, and supporting the aspirations of the region’s youth in sports and beyond.
Lifesigns & AIIMS Revolutionize Healthcare at Maha Kumbh Mela 2025
Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh: The Maha Kumbh Mela 2025, one of the world’s largest gatherings, is witnessing a transformation in healthcare delivery through a partnership between Lifesigns, a pioneer in intelligent patient monitoring platforms, and AIIMS Raebareli and Delhi. This collaboration leverages cutting-edge technology to ensure real-time health monitoring, early warning alerts, and seamless care coordination for millions of devotees.
At the heart of this initiative is Lifesigns’ advanced monitoring platform, designed to aggregate and analyze patient health data, including ECG, heart rate, respiration, SpO2, blood pressure, and posture, in real-time. Integrated with AIIMS’ emergency response systems, the platform leverages the deployment of 200 wireless wearable devices to continuously transmit key health parameters to a centralized, intelligent dashboard. This dashboard enables healthcare professionals to monitor multiple patients simultaneously, providing critical alerts and actionable insights from a single, secure interface. The system’s lightweight network and mobility support ensure that patients are proactively monitored at all times, enhancing response times and optimizing resource allocation in high-density environments like the Maha Kumbh Mela.
Hari Subramaniam, Founder and CEO of Lifesigns, said, “The Maha Kumbh Mela is a testament to the power of blending tradition with innovation. Our intelligent monitoring platform empowers healthcare professionals with real-time insights and early warning alerts, ensuring that care is delivered precisely when and where it’s needed most. This collaboration showcases how technology can address the unique challenges of large-scale healthcare delivery.”
Dr. Suyash Singh, HOD Neuro Surgery, AIIMS, added, “Managing healthcare during the Maha Kumbh Mela requires innovative solutions that can handle the scale and complexity of such an event. Lifesigns’ platform has proven to be an invaluable tool, enabling real-time monitoring and prompt medical interventions, ensuring the safety and well-being of millions of pilgrims.”
Healthcare professionals at the event are utilizing Lifesigns’ secure, web-based dashboard to monitor patients remotely, providing 24/7 care. This scalable solution highlights the potential of technology to redefine mass healthcare management, with applications extending to disaster relief, global events, and public health initiatives.
The ongoing deployment showcases the power of innovation in addressing critical healthcare needs, paving the way for a safer, more efficient future in mass healthcare management.
Godawari Electric Launches EbluCare App for EV Management
Raipur, 29th January 2025: Godawari Electric Motors, a prominent name in the electric vehicle industry, is proud to announce the launch of its innovative mobile application, EbluCare. Designed and developed entirely in-house, this cutting-edge app aims to simplify and enhance the electric vehicle ownership experience. The official launch took place on January 26, 2025, coinciding with India’s 76th Republic Day, and was unveiled by the company’s Managing Director, Mr. Siddharth Agrawal, Chairman, Mr. Bajranglal Agrawal and the I.T team of the company.
EbluCare is a zero-cost application that caters to the entire range of Godawari Electric Motors’ Eblu products, including two-wheelers, three-wheelers, and electric cycles. The app offers a seamless and intuitive interface, enabling users to log in effortlessly using their registered mobile number or chassis number. It provides comprehensive access to vehicle details and introduces a host of features designed to manage customer vehicles conveniently. With real-time ride tracking and turn-by-turn navigation, users can enjoy an enhanced driving experience. The app also includes real-time battery monitoring, ensuring users are always informed about their battery status and prepared for their journeys.
Another key feature of EbluCare is service management, which allows users to book service appointments, review service history, and stay up-to-date with maintenance schedules. The app also delivers timely notifications for important alerts and exclusive offers, keeping users engaged and informed. Furthermore, it provides detailed product information and warranty coverage at users’ fingertips. To further improve customer experience, EbluCare includes a feedback section where users can share their suggestions and experiences directly with the company.
Commenting on the launch, Mr. Hyder Khan, Director and CEO, Godawari Electric Motors, said, “The launch of EbluCare marks a pivotal moment in our journey towards creating a more connected and user-friendly EV ecosystem. This in-house developed application is a testament to our commitment to innovation and unwavering dedication to enhancing the EV ownership experience for all our customers. We believe EbluCare will set new standards for EV owners’ interaction with their vehicles.”
EbluCare is now available for download on major mobile platforms. Godawari Electric Motors invites all Eblu product owners to explore this groundbreaking application and experience the future of electric vehicle management firsthand. With this launch, the EV maker continues to cement its leadership in the EV sector, combining technological innovation with a deep understanding of customer needs.
Augmont Expands SPOT Gold Platform with Lab-Grown Diamond Integration
January 29, 2025, India: Augmont, India’s largest gold trading platform announced that it has added Lab Grown Diamonds (LGD) to its existing online SPOT trading platform for precious metals catering to more than 5,000 jewellers across the country.
The enhanced SPOT 2.0 platform brings Augmont’s 17 years of precious metals trading expertise to the growing LGD sector. This addition represents an evolution of diamond trading infrastructure, particularly as India maintains its position as the world’s largest diamond cutting and polishing destination.
The platform enhancement introduces transparent pricing mechanisms and streamlined procurement processes for the LGD market inspiring confidence among key stakeholders. This strategic move is set to streamline the procurement for jewellers while establishing a transparent and efficient pricing mechanism for the rapidly growing LGD market in India.
Mr. Ketan Kothari, Director of Augmont Group, said, “Augmont has firmly established itself as India’s go-to destination for buying and selling gold. Building on this strong foundation, we are proud to have our own lab-grown diamond (LGD) platform on Augmont SPOT, addressing the surging demand in this rapidly growing industry. The platform will enable market pricing and delivery of these diamonds globally including USA, Europe, Gulf and East Asia’’
Mr. Aarav Bafna, Product Head (LGD), Augmont, said, “With the extended version of SPOT, we plan to set a benchmark for LGD pricing. The current LGD pricing model, based solely on discounts relative to mined diamonds, is fundamentally flawed and irrational. Augmont is here to transform that narrative. Just as we revolutionized gold trading and price discovery in India, we are now ready to redefine and reimagine the LGD market.”
SPOT offers a comprehensive and unified trading experience, enabling jewellers to source all their manufacturing requirements—including gold, silver, platinum, lab-grown diamonds, precious metal alloys, precious stones, and other essential materials—through a single integrated online platform. It also features real-time price discovery powered by advanced algorithms and market mechanisms, ensuring transparent and fair pricing. Quality assurance is a priority, with certification and verification processes for all listed diamonds. Built upon Augmont’s proven 17-year-old trading infrastructure, SPOT ensures seamless integration for a reliable and efficient trading experience.
The platform addresses the growing demand for lab-grown diamonds, which have gained significant market share due to their sustainable nature and competitive pricing. SPOT is expected to handle substantial trading volumes, reflecting India’s dominant position in the global LGD polishing industry.
As per the Commerce Ministry’s data, India polishes almost 98% of all lab-grown diamonds in the world in 2022.
As per the EY report, the demand for Lab-Grown Diamonds is rising across the world, and its global market size is growing at 8.64% CAGR to touch $39.3 billion by 2028. And the Indian lab-grown diamond jewellery market, which was valued at around $300 million in 2023, is set to increase to $1.2 billion by 2033.
Hyderabad Welcomes Omnicom’s Fourth Center of Excellence as Company Expands in India
29th January 2025, India – Omnicom (NYSE: OMC) today announced it has expanded its Global Solutions Centers of Excellence with the opening of a campus in Hyderabad. This follows Omnicom opening campuses in Bengaluru, Chennai and Gurugram in April 2024. The continued investment in India underscores Omnicom’s commitment to broadening its footprint in the rapidly growing market, leveraging the country’s rich talent pool, and persistently driving innovation to further enhance client services across the organization.
The Hyderabad campus will accommodate Omnicom’s expanding footprint and global client solutions capabilities. With expertise in areas such as media, technology, digital commerce, marketing science, market research, creative services and business support services, Omnicom’s Global Solutions Centers will support our agencies around the world, driving more value and efficiencies for our clients.
Omnicom’s four India campuses have newly designed, state-of-the-art offices offering dynamic and collaborative work environments. They are home to a team of over 5500 professionals with expertise spanning media, data and analytics, creative, digital commerce, marketing technology, and artificial intelligence. These centers of excellence empower and provide resources to Omnicom agencies worldwide, driving unparalleled value and efficiency for clients.
Vishal Srivastava, CEO of Annalect India and Omnicom Global Solutions, emphasizes, “Our integration into the new center of excellence underscores Omnicom’s unwavering commitment to harnessing top-tier talent and pioneering global solutions to deliver exceptional client services. This state-of-the-art collaboration hub is where brilliant minds will continue to converge to revolutionize the marketing landscape, driving innovation and excellence at every turn.”
Mr. Gaurav Mathur, CEO Credera India GDC, said, “Omnicom’s expansion in Hyderabad highlights India’s unmatched talent and innovation potential. At Credera India, we are proud to connect advanced technologies and creative excellence to deliver transformative solutions for our global network. Hyderabad’s dynamic ecosystem and skilled workforce will further strengthen our ability to drive unparalleled value and impact for clients worldwide.”
Shakti Pumps (India) Limited Continues Remarkable Performance in Q3 & 9M FY25
Indore, Madhya Pradesh (India), 29 January 2025 – Shakti Pumps (India) Limited (SPIL), announced the financial results for the quarter and nine months ended 31st December 2024.
Shakti Pumps (India) Limited Chairman, Mr. Dinesh Patidar, commented on the company’s performance, “I am pleased to share that our company has earned the prestigious “Great Place to Work” certification, a testament to our strong and motivated team, which has contributed to the company’s consistent growth. The company has delivered strong overall financial performance led by increased execution of orders and operational efficiencies, which also resulted in significant margin expansion.
The order inflow continued to gain momentum, resulting in a robust outstanding order book position of around Rs. 20,700 Mn (inclusive of GST) as on 31st December 2024, which is to be executed within a year. During the quarter, the company received a Letter of Empanelment of 25,000 pumps amounting to Rs. 7,543 Mn (inclusive of GST) under the Magel Tyala Saur Krushi Pump Scheme in Maharashtra; and an order of 3,174 pumps from Haryana Renewable Energy Department (HAREDA) amounting to Rs. 1,163.6 Mn (inclusive of GST). With the diversification of orders beyond the PM KUSUM Scheme like Magel Tyala Saur Krushi Pump Scheme, we remain confident about our growth prospects.
Solar rooftop presents a promising opportunity, bolstered by government initiatives like “PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana” which is backed with an investment outlay of Rs. 750 Bn. We foresee significant opportunities with the government focusing on integrating renewable energy solutions with agriculture, for the betterment of farmers, as well as to their meet their sustainability objectives.
We have strategically diversified our business model by entering the manufacturing of Electric Motors & Controllers for Electric Vehicles. In the EV space, we are progressing with pilot orders from OEMs, and this could unlock a significant opportunity for us in the future. Our export business has also delivered a strong performance, as it grew by 58% YoY to Rs. 3,119 Mn in 9MFY25.
To conclude, we foresee a bright future, with all our strategic initiatives poised to strengthen our market position and foster future growth.”
Key Financial Highlights of the Quarter (Consolidated):
| Particulars (Rs. Mn) | Q3FY25 | Q3FY24 | YoY | Q2FY25 | QoQ | 9MFY25 | 9MFY24 | YoY |
| Revenue from Operations | 6,488 | 4,956 | 30.9% | 6,346 | 2.2% | 18,509 | 7,615 | 143.1% |
| EBITDA | 1,544 | 710 | 117.6% | 1,487 | 3.8% | 4,390 | 941 | 366.6% |
| EBITDA Margin | 23.8% | 14.3% | 948 bps | 23.4% | 36 bps | 23.7% | 12.4% | 1,136 bps |
| Profit Before Tax | 1,415 | 628 | 125.5% | 1,385 | 2.2% | 4,056 | 708 | 472.4% |
| Profit After Tax | 1,040 | 452 | 130.2% | 1,014 | 2.6% | 2,981 | 521 | 472.8% |
| PAT Margin | 16.0% | 9.1% | 692 bps | 16.0% | 5 bps | 16.1% | 6.8% | 927 bps |
| Basic EPS (Rs.) | 8.7 | 4.1 | 111.1% | 8.4 | 2.6% | 24.8 | 4.7 | 425.4% |
Financial Highlights:
Q3FY25
- Revenue from Operations grew by 30.9% YoY to reach Rs. 6,488 Mn in Q3FY25, from Rs. 4,596 Mn in Q3FY24
- EBITDA at Rs. 1,544 Mn, up from Rs. 710 Mn in Q3FY24, a growth of 117.6% YoY. EBITDA Margin at 23.8% in Q3FY25 expanded significantly by 938 bps from 14.3% in Q3FY24, attributed to higher execution of orders and economies of scale
- PAT witnessed a growth of 130.2% to reach Rs. 1,040 Mn this quarter, as compared to Rs. Rs. 452 Mn in the corresponding quarter of previous fiscal. PAT Margin expanded to 16.0% as compared to 9.1% in Q3FY24
9MFY25
- Revenue was reported at Rs. 18,509 Mn in 9MFY25, as against Rs. 7,615 Mn in the same period of previous fiscal year
- EBITDA grew to Rs. 4,390 Mn in 9MFY25, as compared to Rs. 941 Mn in 9MFY24. EBITDA margin expanded to 23.7% as compared to 12.4% in 9MFY24
- PAT at Rs. 2,981 Mn, witnessed a remarkable YoY growth, as compared to Rs. 521 Mn in 9MFY24. PAT Margin expanded to 16.1% in 9MFY25 from 6.8% in 9MFY24
PINQ Polka’s “I O Me” Campaign Highlights the Beauty of Being True to Yourself
January 29, 2025, New Delhi: Redefining intimate care for Indian women, PINQ Polka, the premium intimate hygiene and lifestyle brand, unveils its powerful new campaign, “I O Me.” This unapologetic anthem celebrates individuality, inclusivity, and the freedom to embrace oneself without filters, limits, or labels.
Through “I O Me,” PINQ Polka calls on women to shed societal expectations and reclaim their narratives. The TVC, with its bold and rhythmic script, encapsulates this ethos:
“No explanation, no excuse. Ye people pleasing kya hai, girl? I am my own muse; this story is mine here to slay and shine.” The campaign’s empowering message is amplified by visuals that represent women of diverse backgrounds, and journeys, united in their self-love and confidence.
“ I O Me’ is about breaking free from societal constraints and owning your narrative unapologetically. This campaign is a movement,” said Ms. Manveen Ssharma, Founder at PINQ Polka. “At Pinq Polka, inclusivity isn’t just a value; it’s the foundation of everything we do. We design products for all shapes, all sizes, and all stories. We believe every woman deserves the freedom to be her true self.”
PINQ Polka understands that intimate hygiene is deeply personal. By crafting products that prioritise comfort, functionality, and the unique needs of Indian bodies, the brand champions inclusivity in a way that truly matters. The campaign tagline, “Own Your Vibe,” resonates as a universal call to celebrate individuality, confidence, and freedom. Aligned with Pinq Polka’s core mission, the campaign reflects the brand’s belief that self-love and self-care are essential pillars of confidence and well-being.
The “I O Me” campaign will feature digital, social media channels igniting a wave of self-expression and self-love. PINQ Polka is a promise to empower women to live authentically, embrace their imperfections, and take charge of their narratives.