https://startupinbrief.com Latest Indian startup and tech news summarized in 60 words. en-us https://startupinbrief.com/news/openais-new-ai-smart-speaker-will-reportedly-sell-for-between-300-400 https://startupinbrief.com/news/openais-new-ai-smart-speaker-will-reportedly-sell-for-between-300-400 "OpenAI is developing a premium, donut-shaped AI smart speaker in partnership with Jony Ive's LoveFrom studio. Expected to launch in 2027, the high-quality metal device will feature moving parts and a projected price between $300 and $400. While aiming to integrate ChatGPT into homes, OpenAI faces a challenging market and a lawsuit from Apple alleging the theft of trade secrets, which the company denies.". Fri, 07 Aug 2026 04:13:53 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/your-table-awaits-exhibit-at-techcrunch-disrupt-2026-to-be-seen-by-thousands https://startupinbrief.com/news/your-table-awaits-exhibit-at-techcrunch-disrupt-2026-to-be-seen-by-thousands TechCrunch Disrupt 2026, held October 13-15 at San Francisco’s Moscone West, is offering startups an Exhibit Program to connect with over 10,000 industry leaders. For $12,500, exhibitors receive a table, ten event passes, lead generation tools, and Silver Tier branding. This opportunity allows startups to network with investors and partners. Applications are open until September 25 or until all limited tables are sold out. Fri, 07 Aug 2026 03:30:00 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/vogue-just-gave-another-nod-of-approval-to-the-tech-world https://startupinbrief.com/news/vogue-just-gave-another-nod-of-approval-to-the-tech-world Vogue World will move to San Francisco next year, marking a shift toward the tech industry's cultural influence. Anna Wintour praised the city's creativity and innovation, though the move reflects Vogue's growing ties with tech billionaires and AI leaders. Previously held in fashion capitals like Paris and Milan, the event's new location highlights the intersection of high fashion and the Silicon Valley elite's evolving style. Fri, 07 Aug 2026 02:54:47 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/pe-giant-tpg-offloads-shadowfax-shares-in-301-cr-bulk-deal https://startupinbrief.com/news/pe-giant-tpg-offloads-shadowfax-shares-in-301-cr-bulk-deal Private equity giant TPG sold Shadowfax shares worth nearly ₹300.6 crore via NewQuest Asia Fund IV, diluting over 18% of its stake. This follows similar profit-booking moves by Flipkart and Eight Roads. The sales come amid a 43.5% surge in share prices over three months, driven by strong Q1 FY27 results, including an eightfold increase in net profit and a 65% year-on-year rise in operating revenue. Fri, 07 Aug 2026 01:44:13 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/google-says-hackers-are-calling-financial-firm-employees-to-hack-and-extort-victims https://startupinbrief.com/news/google-says-hackers-are-calling-financial-firm-employees-to-hack-and-extort-victims Google researchers report that hacking groups, possibly part of a larger collective called UNC6671, are targeting major US financial and investment firms. Using "vishing" techniques, attackers trick employees via phone calls into revealing credentials on spoofed websites. The hackers steal sensitive data to extort ransoms, often ranging from $750,000 to $3 million. One associated cryptocurrency wallet reportedly received approximately $10 million in Bitcoin earlier this year. Fri, 07 Aug 2026 01:10:46 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/china-linked-lightspy-spyware-caught-targeting-victims-in-13-countries-including-the-us https://startupinbrief.com/news/china-linked-lightspy-spyware-caught-targeting-victims-in-13-countries-including-the-us Security researchers at Arctic Wolf discovered that LightSpy, a Chinese-linked spyware, has expanded its reach to over a dozen countries, including the US and Europe. Now a commercial platform targeting governments and militaries, it can steal sensitive data, brick devices, and compromise routers, including those in NATO countries. The modular spyware operates via 117 global servers and was recently linked to a Chinese contractor through a KFC order. Fri, 07 Aug 2026 00:52:30 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/defense-tech-hadrian-raises-137b-at-8b-valuation https://startupinbrief.com/news/defense-tech-hadrian-raises-137b-at-8b-valuation "Defense tech company Hadrian has raised $1.37 billion in a new funding round, bringing its valuation to $7.87 billion. Led by investors including WCM Investment Management and Baillie Gifford, the company has now raised approximately $2 billion in total. Hadrian focuses on automated manufacturing facilities for existing military vehicle parts rather than AI weapons, recently opening a $2.4 billion submarine parts facility in Alabama.". Fri, 07 Aug 2026 00:32:57 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/mitti-labs-bags-95-mn-to-make-rice-cultivation-water-efficient https://startupinbrief.com/news/mitti-labs-bags-95-mn-to-make-rice-cultivation-water-efficient "Climate tech startup Mitti Labs has raised $9.5 million in a Series A funding round led by Aramco Ventures to expand its operations in India, the Philippines, and Indonesia. The company utilizes a GeoAI platform and alternate wetting and drying techniques to help rice farmers reduce water and methane emissions. These verified savings are then sold as carbon credits to enterprises seeking to offset their environmental impact.". Fri, 07 Aug 2026 00:32:33 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/ford-needs-another-taurus-and-the-30k-fathom-ev-pickup-isnt-it https://startupinbrief.com/news/ford-needs-another-taurus-and-the-30k-fathom-ev-pickup-isnt-it Ford is launching the Fathom, an affordable EV compact pickup priced at $29,945, to revitalize its sales and compete with Chinese EVs. While CEO Jim Farley views it as a pivotal moment, the vehicle faces challenges due to the small compact truck market and strong SUV demand. Rather than a breakout hit, the Fathom may serve as a strategic test for Ford's new Universal EV platform. Thu, 06 Aug 2026 23:11:56 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/bumble-teases-a-swipe-free-future-as-it-doubles-down-on-irl-meetups https://startupinbrief.com/news/bumble-teases-a-swipe-free-future-as-it-doubles-down-on-irl-meetups Bumble is shifting away from its traditional swipe model to attract Gen Z users through real-world, group-based experiences. The company recently launched "Plans," an app designed for low-pressure, in-person socializing. CEO Whitney Wolfe Heard indicated that a new, more intentional interaction model will eventually replace swiping. Despite these innovations and AI integration, Bumble faces financial challenges, with year-over-year revenue declining by 15.2% and a drop in paying customers. Thu, 06 Aug 2026 23:09:47 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/chatgpt-brings-unlimited-text-chats-to-free-users https://startupinbrief.com/news/chatgpt-brings-unlimited-text-chats-to-free-users "OpenAI is removing text-based chat limits for all ChatGPT users, introducing the GPT-5.6 Luna model for Free and Go users. These users will also receive a 'Think' button for complex queries. Plus and Pro users gain the upgraded GPT-5.6 Sol model and a thinking slider to adjust reasoning depth. Internal tests show significant reductions in factual errors, with updates rolling out this week and next.". Thu, 06 Aug 2026 23:04:42 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/ipo-bound-leap-india-nets-744-cr-from-anchor-investors https://startupinbrief.com/news/ipo-bound-leap-india-nets-744-cr-from-anchor-investors Ahead of the commencement of the bidding for its public issue on August 7, logistics tech platform LEAP India has. Thu, 06 Aug 2026 22:53:52 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/naive-raises-285m-to-automate-the-grunt-work-of-setting-up-and-running-a-company https://startupinbrief.com/news/naive-raises-285m-to-automate-the-grunt-work-of-setting-up-and-running-a-company Naïve, a startup providing infrastructure for AI agents to automate business setup and operations, has raised $28.5 million in Series A funding led by Nexus Venture Partners. With over 30,000 developer customers, the company offers an API to provision everything from LLC formation to cloud resources. Naïve is now focusing on reducing inference costs through model routing and serverless runtimes to improve agent efficiency for enterprises. Thu, 06 Aug 2026 22:30:37 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/hacker-pleads-guilty-to-stealing-data-from-more-than-165-snowflake-customers https://startupinbrief.com/news/hacker-pleads-guilty-to-stealing-data-from-more-than-165-snowflake-customers Canadian citizen Connor Moucka, 26, pled guilty to hacking over 165 companies and stealing billions of records. By compromising cloud provider Snowflake, Moucka accessed data from clients like AT&T and Ticketmaster, affecting millions of customers. He and his accomplices extorted $2.5 million in ransom and earned $500,000 selling data. Moucka faces decades in prison and is scheduled for sentencing on October 27 following his 2024 arrest. Thu, 06 Aug 2026 22:12:40 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/tiktok-lays-off-250-employees-shutters-its-nashville-office https://startupinbrief.com/news/tiktok-lays-off-250-employees-shutters-its-nashville-office TikTok is laying off 250 employees and closing its Nashville office on October 5. The office, which housed content moderation staff, is being shuttered to streamline operations and align teams for long-term growth. These cuts occur as social media platforms increasingly utilize AI to monitor and remove explicit or violent content. TikTok maintains its commitment to providing a safe experience for its 200 million American users. Thu, 06 Aug 2026 21:36:40 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/google-wallet-now-lets-parents-set-up-secure-balances-for-their-kids https://startupinbrief.com/news/google-wallet-now-lets-parents-set-up-secure-balances-for-their-kids Google Wallet is introducing a new feature in the United States allowing parents to manage secure balances for children under 18. This tool enables parents to set spending limits, monitor transactions, and pause spending to teach financial literacy without requiring a bank account. Compatible with Android and Wear OS devices, the update positions Google against competitors like Apple Cash Family and specialized financial literacy startups. Thu, 06 Aug 2026 21:30:00 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/gains-from-unexercised-esop-buybacks-taxable-as-capital-gains-itat https://startupinbrief.com/news/gains-from-unexercised-esop-buybacks-taxable-as-capital-gains-itat The Income Tax Appellate Tribunal ruled that gains from the repurchase of vested, unexercised employee stock options (ESOPs) are taxable as long-term capital gains rather than salary perquisites. This decision, stemming from a dispute involving a Flipkart executive, potentially lowers tax liabilities for employees. However, the ruling applies only to specific cancellation scenarios and adds to existing conflicting judicial views on how ESOP payouts fit into India's tax framework. Thu, 06 Aug 2026 21:26:32 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/gen-z-dating-apps-like-ditto-ditch-swiping-in-favor-of-ai-matchmaking https://startupinbrief.com/news/gen-z-dating-apps-like-ditto-ditch-swiping-in-favor-of-ai-matchmaking Ditto, an AI matchmaker created by UC Berkeley dropouts, aims to replace swipe-based dating apps for disillusioned Gen Z college students. By utilizing an iMessage-based onboarding process, the service matches users based on personality traits rather than surface-level hobbies. Every Wednesday, Ditto arranges a specific date time and location for pairs. With $9.2 million in seed funding and 150,000 signups, the platform focuses on removing friction from dating. Thu, 06 Aug 2026 21:23:03 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/lok-sabha-passes-taxation-laws-amendment-bill-clearing-path-to-levy-mdr-on-upi-payments https://startupinbrief.com/news/lok-sabha-passes-taxation-laws-amendment-bill-clearing-path-to-levy-mdr-on-upi-payments The Lok Sabha passed the Taxation and Other Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2026, amending the Payment and Settlement Systems Act, 2007. This allows the government to introduce merchant discount rates (MDR) on UPI transactions. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman stated MDR applies only to merchants, not customers, to fund infrastructure and security. The bill now moves to the Rajya Sabha, with potential charges on business transactions exceeding ₹2,000. Thu, 06 Aug 2026 21:05:05 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/tesla-and-spacex-will-invest-168b-to-start-building-terafab-chip-factory-in-texas https://startupinbrief.com/news/tesla-and-spacex-will-invest-168b-to-start-building-terafab-chip-factory-in-texas Tesla and SpaceX are jointly developing "Terafab," a massive semiconductor factory in Grimes County, Texas. With an initial $16.8 billion investment, the facility will span over 100 million square feet, aiming to be the world's largest building. Terafab will produce advanced chips for Tesla's robots and Cybercabs, as well as SpaceX's data centers. The project expects to employ 3,000 people and includes contributions from Intel. Thu, 06 Aug 2026 20:51:51 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/openai-says-apples-own-security-practices-undermine-its-trade-secrets-case https://startupinbrief.com/news/openai-says-apples-own-security-practices-undermine-its-trade-secrets-case "OpenAI has filed a motion to dismiss Apple's trade secrets lawsuit, arguing that Apple's poor security and offboarding practices disqualify the alleged stolen information as protected trade secrets. While Apple accuses OpenAI of orchestrating a scheme to obtain confidential hardware data, OpenAI claims the lawsuit is a pretextual attempt to stifle competition and mask Apple's inability to retain top talent and innovate in AI hardware.". Thu, 06 Aug 2026 20:40:32 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/karnataka-eyes-anthropic-tie-up-to-expand-ai-across-public-service https://startupinbrief.com/news/karnataka-eyes-anthropic-tie-up-to-expand-ai-across-public-service Karnataka is exploring a partnership with AI company Anthropic to integrate artificial intelligence into public administration, education, and scientific research. Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar discussed leveraging AI for fraud detection, cybersecurity, and secure exam preparation. The collaboration aims to enhance the state's innovation ecosystem through an AI University, skilling programs, and startup support, while prioritizing data privacy and responsible deployment to ensure inclusive public services. Thu, 06 Aug 2026 20:12:11 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/fisdom-cofounders-set-to-exit-groww-a-year-after-150-mn-acquisition https://startupinbrief.com/news/fisdom-cofounders-set-to-exit-groww-a-year-after-150-mn-acquisition Fisdom cofounders Subramanya SV and Anand Dalmia are exiting Groww after a planned one-year transition following the fintech company's $150 million acquisition of Fisdom. Groww aims to scale its wealth management business, 'W', using internal leadership and promoted Fisdom executives. Financially, Groww reported a 94.3% year-on-year profit increase to ₹735 crore and operating revenue of ₹1,501.4 crore, with mutual fund assets under management reaching ₹1.9 lakh crore. Thu, 06 Aug 2026 20:08:43 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/wakefit-q1-profit-increases-19-yoy-to-234-cr-revenue-crosses-400-cr https://startupinbrief.com/news/wakefit-q1-profit-increases-19-yoy-to-234-cr-revenue-crosses-400-cr Wakefit reported a 19% year-on-year increase in net profit to ₹23.4 crore for the June quarter, although profit dropped 81% sequentially from ₹121.7 crore. Operating revenue grew 17% year-on-year and 18% quarter-on-quarter to reach ₹404.9 crore. Total income was ₹420.5 crore, while total expenses rose 14% year-on-year to ₹384.2 crore. Tax expenses were ₹12.9 crore, contrasting with a previous quarter's deferred tax credit. Thu, 06 Aug 2026 20:07:31 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/ebay-continues-to-bet-on-live-shopping-after-record-quarter https://startupinbrief.com/news/ebay-continues-to-bet-on-live-shopping-after-record-quarter "eBay is expanding its live shopping feature, eBay Live, to compete with rivals like Whatnot and TikTok Shop. The company reported an eightfold year-over-year increase in gross merchandise volume across seven markets, with regular streamers selling three times more than others. Now offering self-service onboarding for sellers in over 300 categories, eBay plans further international expansion and product improvements to enhance discovery and bidding responsiveness.". Thu, 06 Aug 2026 19:47:46 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/reliance-brands-brings-kim-kardashians-skims-to-india https://startupinbrief.com/news/reliance-brands-brings-kim-kardashians-skims-to-india Reliance Brands Ltd has partnered with Kim Kardashian’s SKIMS to introduce the shapewear and lifestyle brand to the Indian market. The rollout will begin with stores in Delhi and Mumbai before expanding nationwide via offline and digital channels. This strategic move targets India's growing premium consumer segment, intensifying competition for domestic brands while leveraging Reliance's extensive retail network to accelerate the premiumisation of the local shapewear industry. Thu, 06 Aug 2026 19:41:33 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/aap-chief-alleges-meta-restricted-his-account-sources-say-action-limited-to-a-post https://startupinbrief.com/news/aap-chief-alleges-meta-restricted-his-account-sources-say-action-limited-to-a-post Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) chief and former Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal has alleged that Meta restricted his Instagram account. Thu, 06 Aug 2026 19:21:16 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/exclusive-practo-in-talks-to-acquire-healthtech-saas-startup-healthplix https://startupinbrief.com/news/exclusive-practo-in-talks-to-acquire-healthtech-saas-startup-healthplix Practo is in talks to acquire healthtech SaaS startup HealthPlix for an estimated $25 million to $30 million. This potential distress sale aims to bolster Practo's enterprise healthcare software business by integrating HealthPlix's EMR and clinical workflow solutions. The move comes as Practo prepares for a pre-IPO funding round of approximately $120 million, targeting a post-money valuation of around $700 million to expand its global healthcare operations. Thu, 06 Aug 2026 19:16:13 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/amid-legal-battles-suno-says-it-will-start-watermarking-songs https://startupinbrief.com/news/amid-legal-battles-suno-says-it-will-start-watermarking-songs "Suno, an AI music generator, has introduced audio watermarking, fingerprinting, and updated community guidelines to combat copycat songs and misuse on streaming platforms. Partnering with Musixmatch for copyright detection, the company aims to promote original creation. These changes arrive as Suno faces multiple lawsuits from major music labels and a class action suit following a massive data breach that exposed its model training sources.". Thu, 06 Aug 2026 19:01:57 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/ixigo-q1-profit-surges-81-yoy-to-342-cr-revenue-up-13 https://startupinbrief.com/news/ixigo-q1-profit-surges-81-yoy-to-342-cr-revenue-up-13 Traveltech company ixigo reported a consolidated net profit of ₹34.2 crore for the June quarter (Q1 FY27), marking an 81% increase year-on-year and a 7% rise sequentially. Operating revenue grew 13% year-on-year and 16% quarter-on-quarter to reach ₹356.8 crore. Total income for the period stood at ₹385.9 crore, while total expenses rose 15% year-on-year to ₹337.8 crore, including a ₹4 crore loss from an associate. Thu, 06 Aug 2026 18:58:43 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/10-quotes-from-mountains-to-cross-by-abraham-m-george https://startupinbrief.com/news/10-quotes-from-mountains-to-cross-by-abraham-m-george Abraham M. George's "Mountains to Cross" chronicles his journey from business success to fighting poverty and inequality in India. The book argues that true fulfillment stems from using personal achievements to create opportunities for others through dedicated service. George's experiences in education and healthcare demonstrate how compassion and persistence can drive lasting social change, challenging readers to redefine success as a meaningful contribution to a greater purpose. Thu, 06 Aug 2026 18:50:00 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/fords-new-electric-truck-fathom-starts-at-28350 https://startupinbrief.com/news/fords-new-electric-truck-fathom-starts-at-28350 Ford will launch the Fathom, an all-electric truck starting at $28,350, in fall 2027. Built in Louisville, Kentucky, on the new Universal EV Platform to reduce costs, the vehicle aims to compete with Tesla and Chinese manufacturers. Key features include bidirectional power, BlueCruise capability, and support for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. This budget-friendly model represents Ford's strategic shift toward more affordable, ground-up electric vehicle designs. Thu, 06 Aug 2026 18:31:25 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/ex-spotify-employees-raise-10m-to-bring-the-ai-behind-its-recommendations-to-e-commerce https://startupinbrief.com/news/ex-spotify-employees-raise-10m-to-bring-the-ai-behind-its-recommendations-to-e-commerce "Former Spotify engineers Sidd Motwani, Ian Anderson, and Shivaditya Sinha have launched Malachyte, an e-commerce personalization startup that recently raised $10 million in seed funding. The company utilizes "two-headed Vector AI" to predict shopper intent in real time based on current session behavior rather than historical data. Malachyte is currently available to Shopify merchants and larger retailers via API to create more relevant, intent-aware shopping experiences.". Thu, 06 Aug 2026 18:30:00 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/exclusive-mirendil-inks-100m-google-cloud-deal-to-scale-self-improving-ai https://startupinbrief.com/news/exclusive-mirendil-inks-100m-google-cloud-deal-to-scale-self-improving-ai "AI lab Mirendil has entered a multi-year partnership with Google Cloud worth over $100 million to secure compute capacity for its self-improving AI research. The deal provides access to Google’s TPUs and Nvidia GPUs, enabling Mirendil to develop recursive AI systems designed to automate scientific research in fields like medicine. This strategic collaboration allows Mirendil to scale its infrastructure while providing Google with a frontier AI partner.". Thu, 06 Aug 2026 18:30:00 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/leumas-rents-out-robotic-factory-lines-to-brands-that-do-not-want-to-build-a-factory https://startupinbrief.com/news/leumas-rents-out-robotic-factory-lines-to-brands-that-do-not-want-to-build-a-factory Bengaluru-based Leumas offers modular, software-reconfigurable robotic production lines for the nutrition, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical sectors. By providing on-demand manufacturing capacity, the company allows brands to produce small batches without owning a factory. Leumas has scaled over 120 products globally and recently raised $2.2 million in a seed round led by Capital 2B to expand its infrastructure and launch pilot factories for wellness brands. Thu, 06 Aug 2026 18:17:39 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/constelli-builds-the-signal-processing-tools-used-to-design-radar-and-electronic-warfare-systems https://startupinbrief.com/news/constelli-builds-the-signal-processing-tools-used-to-design-radar-and-electronic-warfare-systems Hyderabad-based Constelli specializes in signal processing and simulation for radar and electronic warfare systems, reducing the need for costly flight testing. Serving clients in India, South Korea, Australia, and Singapore, the company recently raised Rs 180 crore led by General Catalyst. Constelli is now expanding from providing development tools to creating communication and electronic warfare payloads for drones, satellites, and naval vessels to accelerate production. Thu, 06 Aug 2026 18:17:06 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/xovian-is-building-satellites-that-listen-for-radio-signals-rather-than-take-images https://startupinbrief.com/news/xovian-is-building-satellites-that-listen-for-radio-signals-rather-than-take-images Bengaluru-based Xovian Aerospace is developing a constellation of radio frequency nanosatellites to provide sovereign intelligence for India. Unlike optical imaging, their AI-native system processes signals on-orbit to track "dark" vessels and aircraft regardless of weather or light. Having raised $4.5 million in funding, the company aims to deliver low-latency insights for government and enterprise users, with initial space trials expected by the end of 2025. Thu, 06 Aug 2026 18:16:04 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/vikra-ocean-tech-builds-underwater-robots-for-inspection-survey-and-defence-work https://startupinbrief.com/news/vikra-ocean-tech-builds-underwater-robots-for-inspection-survey-and-defence-work Chennai-based Vikra Ocean Tech develops indigenous ocean robotics to replace expensive imports in India. The company offers a comprehensive stack, including deep-water ROVs, autonomous surface vessels, and crawling robots, all managed via a single control platform. Targeting defence, infrastructure, and environmental research, Vikra recently raised $1 million in seed funding to scale manufacturing and build a sales pipeline following two Ministry of Defence grants. Thu, 06 Aug 2026 18:15:37 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/google-maps-adds-agentic-features-including-food-ordering-and-hotel-bookings https://startupinbrief.com/news/google-maps-adds-agentic-features-including-food-ordering-and-hotel-bookings Google is enhancing Google Maps’ “Ask Maps” feature with new agentic capabilities, enabling users to order food, book hotels, and purchase event tickets. The update introduces Personal Intelligence, which integrates Gmail and Google Calendar for personalized travel and dining responses. Additionally, Ask Maps now remembers previous conversations and includes a live transit widget for real-time updates. These features aim to transform the app into a comprehensive personal assistant. Thu, 06 Aug 2026 18:00:00 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/solinas-integrity-snags-55-mn-to-scale-robotics-solutions-across-global-markets https://startupinbrief.com/news/solinas-integrity-snags-55-mn-to-scale-robotics-solutions-across-global-markets Robotics startup Solinas Integrity has raised $5.5 million in a Series A1 funding round co-led by Mela Ventures and Hero Enterprise Family Office. The Chennai-based company, incubated at IIT Madras, develops robotics solutions for detecting pipeline leakages and cleaning sanitation systems. Solinas plans to use the capital to expand manufacturing, enhance software, and enter international markets, including the oil, gas, and defense sectors. Thu, 06 Aug 2026 17:38:16 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/omilia-raises-67m-to-scale-its-customer-support-platform https://startupinbrief.com/news/omilia-raises-67m-to-scale-its-customer-support-platform "Omilia, an Athens-based customer support automation company, has raised $67 million in Series B funding led by Expedition Growth Capital. The company focuses on cost-effective, self-learning agents rather than relying solely on generative AI for basic tasks. With annual recurring revenue reaching $60 million, Omilia plans to expand its U.S. presence, open a new office, and hire key executives to scale its operations further.". Thu, 06 Aug 2026 17:30:00 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/large-firms-to-be-net-job-losers-small-businesses-to-drive-employment-nandan-nilekani https://startupinbrief.com/news/large-firms-to-be-net-job-losers-small-businesses-to-drive-employment-nandan-nilekani Infosys co-founder Nandan Nilekani predicts that AI and automation will make large Indian corporations net job losers, as structured tasks are easily automated. Instead, he argues that millions of small businesses will drive future employment due to their resilience. Nilekani expects India to reach one million startups by 2035, emphasizing the need for deregulation, digital market access, and portable benefits to support a flexible, gig-oriented workforce. Thu, 06 Aug 2026 16:51:41 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/ipo-bound-shiprocket-fy26-loss-widened-7yoy-to-79-cr https://startupinbrief.com/news/ipo-bound-shiprocket-fy26-loss-widened-7yoy-to-79-cr Logistics unicorn Shiprocket is preparing for an IPO from August 12 to 14, targeting a valuation of ₹7,000 Cr. The company aims to raise up to ₹885.5 Cr through a fresh issue and offer for sale. For FY26, Shiprocket reported operating revenue of ₹2,024 Cr, a 24% increase, though net consolidated losses widened by 6.5% to ₹79.2 Cr. Proceeds will fund marketing, IT infrastructure, and debt repayment. Thu, 06 Aug 2026 16:24:37 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/swiggy-targets-rs-10000-cr-adjusted-ebitda-by-fy31 https://startupinbrief.com/news/swiggy-targets-rs-10000-cr-adjusted-ebitda-by-fy31 Swiggy aims for an adjusted EBITDA of approximately Rs 10,000 crore by FY31, driven by growth in food delivery, quick commerce, and out-of-home consumption. The company expects its consolidated Gross Order Value to reach Rs 2.5 lakh crore by FY31. With domestic ownership exceeding 50%, Swiggy remains debt-free with Rs 14,400 crore in cash, projecting a shift from losses to positive earnings per share by FY31. Thu, 06 Aug 2026 16:18:52 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/mitti-labs-raised-95m-in-series-a-from-aramco-ventures-others https://startupinbrief.com/news/mitti-labs-raised-95m-in-series-a-from-aramco-ventures-others The company said that it will expand its geographical footprint in India and launch greenfield projects in the Philippines and Indonesia. Thu, 06 Aug 2026 16:17:27 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/inside-the-economics-that-may-make-or-break-instant-home-services https://startupinbrief.com/news/inside-the-economics-that-may-make-or-break-instant-home-services Urban Company and Snabbit have both surpassed 100,000 daily orders, signaling the mainstream adoption of instant home services. The industry is now shifting its focus from rapid growth to improving unit economics and achieving profitability. Companies are prioritizing denser micromarkets to reduce fulfillment costs and expanding service categories to increase customer spending. While burn per order is declining, long-term sustainability depends on operational efficiency and labor supply. Thu, 06 Aug 2026 16:12:34 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/from-firefly-to-honeybee-how-indias-pixxel-is-widening-what-satellites-can-see https://startupinbrief.com/news/from-firefly-to-honeybee-how-indias-pixxel-is-widening-what-satellites-can-see Pixxel, an Indian startup, is expanding its hyperspectral imaging satellite constellation, including the upcoming Honeybee series. Selected by NASA in 2024, Pixxel provides crucial Earth observation data for climate, agriculture, and resource management. This growth highlights India's private space sector's maturity, moving beyond launch vehicles to develop advanced global satellite technology and insights for governments and enterprises worldwide. Thu, 06 Aug 2026 15:51:46 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/nazara-to-raise-733-cr-via-preferential-issue-to-fund-acquisitions-growth https://startupinbrief.com/news/nazara-to-raise-733-cr-via-preferential-issue-to-fund-acquisitions-growth Gaming major Nazara Technologies has approved raising up to ₹733.5 Cr through a preferential issue of equity shares to fund. Thu, 06 Aug 2026 15:40:07 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/dronetech-startup-garuda-aerospace-gets-sebi-nod-for-750-cr-ipo https://startupinbrief.com/news/dronetech-startup-garuda-aerospace-gets-sebi-nod-for-750-cr-ipo Chennai-based dronetech startup Garuda Aerospace has received SEBI's final observation for its proposed IPO, following a confidential pre-filing in April. The public issue will include a fresh equity share issue of up to ₹750 crore and an offer-for-sale component. Founded in 2015, the company specializes in drone manufacturing and services for defense and agriculture, reporting a net profit of ₹18.4 crore in FY25. Thu, 06 Aug 2026 15:32:31 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/mumbai-ranks-15th-hyderabad-27th-globally-in-operational-data-centre-capacity-knight-frank https://startupinbrief.com/news/mumbai-ranks-15th-hyderabad-27th-globally-in-operational-data-centre-capacity-knight-frank Knight Frank's Global Data Centre Atlas 2026 report ranks Mumbai 15th globally in operational data centre capacity and 11th in development pipeline. Hyderabad ranks 27th in operational capacity and 19th in pipeline. While India is becoming a strategic digital infrastructure destination, Knight Frank India CMD Shishir Baijal emphasizes that improving power provisioning and renewable energy is essential for India to enter the world's top ten data centre markets. Thu, 06 Aug 2026 15:28:32 GMT