Tech
Croma sale reduces iPhone 17 effective price to around ₹45,000 with combined offers
Croma sale brings iPhone 17 price down to nearly ₹45,000 through discounts, exchange offers, and Tata Neu benefits, making it more affordable in India.
Croma sale reduces iPhone 17 effective price to around ₹45,000 with combined offers
Last Updated: April 6, 2026, 4:30 PM IST
In a limited-period promotional sale, electronics retailer Croma has reduced the effective price of Apple’s iPhone 17 to around ₹45,000 in India through a combination of discounts, exchange offers, and reward benefits. The offer, reported by NewsBytes on April 6, 2026, significantly lowers the cost of the premium smartphone, making it more accessible to a wider segment of buyers.
The base variant of the iPhone 17, featuring 256GB storage, is currently listed at ₹82,900 on Croma’s e-commerce platform. However, multiple stacked offers bring down the effective price to approximately ₹44,768, depending on eligibility and exchange conditions.
How the iPhone 17 price drops to ₹45,000
The steep price reduction is achieved through a combination of promotional discounts and benefits. These include:
- Coupon discount: A 2% instant discount worth ₹1,658
- Exchange offer: Up to ₹23,500 for eligible old smartphones
- Exchange bonus: Additional benefits of up to ₹8,000
- Tata Neu rewards: Up to ₹4,974 in NeuCoins
When all these offers are applied, the final effective price falls below ₹45,000. However, the maximum discount depends on the condition and model of the device being exchanged, as well as the user’s eligibility for reward benefits.
[Internal Link Placeholder: Latest smartphone deals in India]
Features and specifications of iPhone 17
Launched in September 2025, the iPhone 17 introduced several upgrades to Apple’s base model lineup. It marked a shift in Apple’s strategy by offering high-end features previously limited to Pro models.
Display and performance
The device features a 6.3-inch OLED Super Retina XDR display with ProMotion technology, supporting a 120Hz refresh rate. This is the first time Apple has included a high refresh rate in its standard iPhone model. The display also offers peak brightness levels of up to 3,000 nits.
Under the hood, the iPhone 17 runs on Apple’s A19 chipset, built on a 3nm process. It includes a five-core GPU and a 16-core Neural Engine, designed to handle advanced artificial intelligence tasks and support Apple Intelligence features on iOS.
Camera and storage upgrades
The base model now starts with 256GB of internal storage, doubling the previous generation’s base capacity. A 512GB variant is also available for users needing additional space.
In terms of optics, the iPhone 17 is equipped with a dual rear camera setup:
- 48MP primary sensor with optical image stabilisation (OIS)
- 48MP ultra-wide lens with macro photography support
For selfies and video calls, the smartphone includes an 18MP front-facing camera with autofocus.
[Internal Link Placeholder: Apple iPhone comparison guide]
Why the price cut matters
The effective price drop positions the iPhone 17 as one of the more competitively priced premium smartphones in India, particularly in a market dominated by Android flagships in the ₹40,000–₹60,000 segment.
Industry observers note that such aggressive pricing strategies, often driven by exchange schemes and ecosystem rewards, are increasingly being used by retailers to boost sales during promotional periods. For consumers, this creates opportunities to access high-end devices at significantly reduced prices.
However, experts also caution that the headline price of ₹45,000 is conditional and may not apply universally. Buyers without an eligible exchange device or those unable to maximise rewards may end up paying a higher effective price.
Consumer considerations
While the offer appears attractive, potential buyers are advised to review the terms carefully. Key factors to consider include:
- Condition and eligibility of the old device for exchange
- Availability of exchange bonuses in specific regions
- Applicability of Tata Neu rewards
- Limited-time nature of the promotional sale
Such deals are often time-bound and subject to stock availability, making early purchase decisions crucial for interested buyers.
FAQ
What is the lowest price of the iPhone 17 in the Croma sale?
The effective price can go as low as approximately ₹44,768 when all discounts, exchange offers, and rewards are applied.
Is the ₹45,000 price available to all buyers?
No, the lowest price depends on factors like exchange eligibility, device condition, and reward benefits. Not all users may qualify for the full discount.
What is the base storage of the iPhone 17?
The base model of the iPhone 17 comes with 256GB of internal storage.
When was the iPhone 17 launched?
The iPhone 17 was launched in September 2025 as part of Apple’s annual smartphone lineup.
According to NewsBytes, the ongoing Croma sale highlights how bundled offers can significantly reduce the upfront cost of premium smartphones, though actual savings vary by user. As competition intensifies in India’s smartphone market, such deals are expected to become more frequent across major retail platforms.
Tech
Samsung Promotes #AwesomeDurability Campaign Highlighting Smartphone Protection Features
Samsung’s #AwesomeDurability campaign spotlights Galaxy A-series protection features, including Gorilla Glass Victus+ and IP68 resistance.
Samsung Promotes #AwesomeDurability Campaign Highlighting Smartphone Protection Features
Last Updated: April 17, 2026
Samsung has launched a new social media campaign under the hashtag #AwesomeDurability, encouraging users in India to engage with its Galaxy A-series smartphones by highlighting key durability features. The campaign, currently active on social platform X, invites participants to answer a question about device protection while offering incentives such as Amazon vouchers.
The initiative focuses on real-life usage scenarios, such as travel in challenging weather conditions, to underline the importance of durability in modern smartphones. The campaign also aims to increase awareness about protective technologies integrated into mid-range devices, particularly in the Galaxy A-series lineup.
Campaign Overview and Participation Details
As part of the campaign, users are asked to identify the feature that ensures the safety of a smartphone during situations involving rain, dust, and accidental drops. The post presents multiple options, including hardware and software-based protection mechanisms.
Participants are required to comment with the correct answer along with specific hashtags and tag Samsung India to qualify for the contest. According to the campaign details, three winners will be selected and awarded Amazon vouchers worth up to Rs 15,000.
- Contest hosted on X platform
- Focus on Galaxy A57 and A37 5G models
- Winners receive vouchers up to Rs 15,000
- Mandatory use of campaign hashtags and tagging
[Internal Link Placeholder: Read more about latest smartphone launches in India]
Key Durability Features Highlighted
The campaign draws attention to several durability-focused features that are increasingly becoming standard in smartphones. These include:
- Corning Gorilla Glass Victus+: Designed to improve resistance against drops and scratches, this material is commonly used in premium devices and is now being introduced in mid-range segments.
- IP68 Rating: Indicates strong protection against dust and water, allowing devices to withstand immersion under controlled conditions.
- Scratch Guard Film: A protective layer aimed at reducing minor surface damage during everyday use.
- Reinforced Charging Port: Built to ensure durability and stable connectivity during frequent charging cycles.
While all options are presented in the contest, the emphasis remains on hardware-based protection such as Gorilla Glass Victus+ combined with IP68 certification, which directly addresses environmental exposure risks.
Growing Focus on Smartphone Durability
The campaign reflects a broader trend in the smartphone industry, where durability is becoming a key differentiator alongside performance and camera capabilities. With increasing outdoor usage and longer device lifecycles, consumers are placing higher importance on build quality and resistance to environmental factors.
Manufacturers, including Samsung, have responded by integrating advanced materials and certifications that were previously limited to flagship devices. The inclusion of such features in mid-range smartphones signals a shift toward more resilient consumer technology.
[Internal Link Placeholder: Explore detailed reviews of Galaxy A-series smartphones]
Market Context and Consumer Impact
India remains one of the largest smartphone markets globally, with a diverse user base that often demands value-driven features. Durability plays a crucial role, particularly in regions where devices are exposed to varying weather conditions and heavy daily usage.
By promoting durability through interactive campaigns, companies are not only marketing product features but also educating consumers about practical benefits. This approach can influence purchasing decisions, especially in competitive price segments.
However, industry experts note that while certifications like IP68 provide assurance, real-world performance can vary depending on usage conditions. Consumers are advised to review official guidelines and limitations associated with such features.
Balanced Perspective on Promotional Campaigns
While the campaign highlights technological advancements, it also serves as a promotional strategy to drive engagement and visibility for upcoming or existing devices. Contests and incentives are commonly used tools to attract attention in a crowded digital landscape.
It is important for consumers to distinguish between marketing claims and tested performance standards. Independent reviews and user feedback continue to play a significant role in evaluating actual device durability.
Conclusion
The #AwesomeDurability campaign underscores Samsung’s focus on strengthening its position in the mid-range smartphone segment by emphasizing durability features. By combining interactive engagement with product education, the initiative reflects evolving consumer priorities in India’s smartphone market.
FAQs
What is the #AwesomeDurability campaign?
It is a social media initiative by Samsung encouraging users to identify smartphone durability features and participate in a contest.
Which devices are part of this campaign?
The campaign highlights Galaxy A-series smartphones, including the Galaxy A57 and A37 5G models.
What can participants win?
Selected winners can receive Amazon vouchers worth up to Rs 15,000.
Why is durability important in smartphones?
Durability ensures longer device lifespan and protection against environmental factors like dust, water, and accidental drops.
Tech
Microsoft Promotes Copilot for Productivity While Warning It Is ‘For Entertainment Purposes Only’
Microsoft markets Copilot as a productivity tool but its terms warn it is for entertainment only, raising concerns over reliability and user trust.
Microsoft Promotes Copilot for Productivity While Warning It Is ‘For Entertainment Purposes Only’
Last Updated: April 6, 2026
Microsoft has been aggressively promoting its AI-powered Copilot as a productivity-enhancing tool integrated across platforms like Windows 11. However, the company’s own Terms of Use caution that the tool is ‘for entertainment purposes only’, highlighting a contradiction that has raised questions about the reliability and positioning of generative AI tools in professional environments.
According to an update reported by Digital Watch Observatory on April 6, 2026, Microsoft’s Copilot terms—last revised in October—state that the AI system may make mistakes, may not function as intended, and should not be relied upon for important advice. The terms also advise users to use the tool at their own risk.
Contradiction Between Marketing and Legal Disclaimers
Microsoft has spent the past year embedding Copilot deeply into its ecosystem, including Windows 11 and new Copilot+ PCs, positioning it as a mainstream productivity assistant for both individuals and businesses.
However, the company’s legal disclaimers present a more cautious picture. The terms explicitly state that:
- Copilot is intended for entertainment purposes
- Outputs may be inaccurate or incomplete
- The tool may not work as expected
- Users should not rely on it for critical decisions
This contrast between promotional messaging and legal safeguards reflects a broader trend in the generative AI industry, where companies market efficiency gains while limiting liability through disclaimers.
Industry-Wide Practice of AI Disclaimers
The issue is not unique to Microsoft. Digital Watch Observatory notes that similar disclaimers are common across the AI sector. Companies developing large language models often highlight that their systems are probabilistic in nature, meaning outputs are generated based on patterns rather than verified facts.
Such systems can produce what are commonly referred to as ‘hallucinations’—responses that sound plausible but are factually incorrect or misleading. Developers also warn that AI outputs may include biased, incomplete, or inappropriate content.
Despite these warnings, many users continue to treat AI-generated responses as authoritative, particularly in professional or time-sensitive scenarios.
Risks of Automation Bias in Real-World Use
Experts point to the growing risk of automation bias, where individuals place undue trust in machine-generated outputs even when contradictory evidence exists. This tendency can be amplified by AI tools that generate confident and coherent responses.
The report cites examples from the tech industry to illustrate these risks. In some cases, engineers reportedly allowed AI-assisted systems to implement changes without adequate oversight, leading to disruptions and system failures. These incidents underscore how errors generated by AI can quickly propagate in complex digital environments.
While such examples remain limited and often anecdotal, they highlight the importance of human verification and accountability when deploying AI tools in critical workflows.
Why This Matters for Businesses and Users
The growing adoption of AI tools like Copilot has significant implications for businesses, professionals, and everyday users. While generative AI can improve efficiency and reduce manual workload, it also introduces new risks that must be managed carefully.
Key concerns include:
- Accuracy: AI-generated outputs may contain factual errors
- Accountability: Responsibility for mistakes remains unclear
- Overreliance: Users may trust AI without sufficient verification
- Legal exposure: Disclaimers shift liability to users
These factors are particularly relevant as organisations increasingly integrate AI into decision-making processes, coding, customer service, and content creation.
Balancing Innovation With Responsibility
Microsoft and other technology companies have invested billions of dollars in AI development, aiming to transform how people work and interact with digital systems. The promotion of tools like Copilot reflects a broader push to monetise these investments and demonstrate tangible productivity gains.
However, the presence of strong disclaimers suggests that the technology is still evolving and may not yet be fully reliable for high-stakes applications.
Experts argue that a balanced approach is essential—one that recognises the benefits of AI while maintaining rigorous standards for verification and human oversight.
Also read: [Internal Link Placeholder – AI regulation and policy developments]
Explore more: [Internal Link Placeholder – Impact of AI on workplace productivity]
Conclusion
The case of Microsoft Copilot highlights a broader tension in the AI industry: the push to position generative AI as a transformative productivity tool, alongside the need to manage its limitations and risks.
As adoption continues to grow, users and organisations will need to remain cautious, ensuring that AI outputs are treated as supportive tools rather than definitive sources of truth.
The evolving landscape also underscores the importance of clear communication from technology providers, particularly as AI becomes increasingly embedded in everyday workflows.
FAQs
Why does Microsoft say Copilot is for ‘entertainment purposes only’?
This disclaimer helps limit legal liability, as AI systems can produce inaccurate or unpredictable outputs.
Can Copilot be used for professional tasks?
Yes, but users are advised to verify all outputs and avoid relying on it for critical decisions.
What is automation bias?
Automation bias is the tendency to trust machine-generated outputs over human judgment or conflicting evidence.
Are other AI companies using similar disclaimers?
Yes, most generative AI providers include warnings about inaccuracies and potential risks in their terms of use.
Tech
Google Vids Introduces Prompt-Based Avatar Control and New AI Video Features
Google Vids adds prompt-based avatar control, Veo 3.1 video generation, YouTube export, and screen recording to enhance AI-powered content creation.
Google Vids Introduces Prompt-Based Avatar Control and New AI Video Features
Last Updated: April 3, 2026
Google has rolled out a major update to its video creation platform, Google Vids, introducing prompt-based avatar control along with several new artificial intelligence (AI) features. Announced on April 3, 2026, the update aims to simplify video production workflows and enhance creative flexibility for enterprise users and content creators. The development is significant as competition intensifies in the AI-powered video creation space.
According to a report by Storyboard18, the latest update allows users to control digital avatars using natural language prompts, enabling them to direct actions, interactions, and scene behavior without manual animation.
Prompt-Based Avatar Control Simplifies Video Creation
The highlight of the update is the introduction of text-driven avatar direction. Users can now describe actions in simple language, and the AI translates those instructions into animated sequences.
This feature allows avatars to:
- Interact with objects, products, and environments
- Perform specific actions based on user prompts
- Maintain visual consistency across scenes
Google stated that despite the dynamic nature of AI-generated outputs, the avatars retain consistency in appearance and behavior, which is crucial for professional content production.
Users can also customise avatars extensively by modifying their clothing, appearance, and backgrounds through prompts, enabling tailored storytelling across different themes and industries.
Integration of Veo 3.1 Enhances Video Generation
Another key addition is the integration of Google’s Veo 3.1 video generation model. This allows users to create short video clips directly within the editing interface.
Key capabilities include:
- Generation of video clips up to eight seconds long
- Seamless integration into existing projects
- Faster iteration during content creation
Google has introduced a usage model where all users receive 10 free video generations per month. Subscribers to premium plans such as Google AI Ultra and Workspace AI Ultra can generate up to 1,000 videos monthly.
This move aligns with Google’s broader push to integrate advanced generative AI tools across its ecosystem.
Direct YouTube Export and Screen Recording Added
The update also brings practical workflow improvements. Users can now export completed videos directly to YouTube without needing to download and re-upload files manually.
Exported videos are set to private by default, allowing creators to review and refine content before publishing publicly.
Additionally, Google has launched a screen recording feature via a Chrome extension. This tool enables users to capture:
- On-screen activity
- Audio narration
- Video input alongside recordings
This feature is expected to be particularly useful for tutorials, presentations, and corporate communications.
Building on Previous AI Enhancements
The latest update builds on earlier advancements introduced by Google Vids. In recent months, the platform added Lyria 3 and Lyria 3 Pro music generation models, allowing users to generate background music and sound effects.
Earlier updates also expanded avatar capabilities, including the introduction of both 2D and 3D cartoon-style avatars. Language support for voiceovers has been broadened to include multiple global languages such as French, German, Spanish, and Japanese.
These incremental improvements reflect Google’s strategy to position Vids as a comprehensive AI-powered video creation tool for both enterprise and general users.
Rising Competition in AI Video Tools Market
Google Vids operates in a rapidly evolving and competitive market. Several companies are investing heavily in AI-driven video creation platforms that cater to marketing, training, and content production needs.
Key competitors include:
- Synthesia
- HeyGen
- D-ID
- Lemon Slice
These platforms offer similar capabilities such as AI avatars, automated video generation, and multilingual support. Google’s latest updates appear to be aimed at strengthening its position against these rivals by integrating advanced AI features with its existing ecosystem.
Industry Impact and Significance
The introduction of prompt-based avatar control marks a shift toward more accessible and intuitive video production tools. By reducing reliance on manual editing and animation, AI platforms like Google Vids are lowering the barrier to entry for high-quality video creation.
This could have a significant impact across industries, including:
- Corporate training and internal communications
- Digital marketing and advertising
- Social media content creation
- Educational content development
However, experts note that while AI tools improve efficiency, they also raise questions about content authenticity and the role of human creativity in media production.
[Read more: AI tools transforming digital marketing workflows]
[Also read: How enterprises are adopting generative AI for content creation]
FAQ
What is the new feature in Google Vids?
Google Vids now allows users to control avatars using text prompts, enabling automated animation and interaction within videos.
What is Veo 3.1 in Google Vids?
Veo 3.1 is Google’s AI video generation model that allows users to create short video clips directly within the platform.
How many free video generations are available?
Users receive 10 free video generations per month, while premium subscribers can generate up to 1,000 videos monthly.
Can videos be directly uploaded to YouTube?
Yes, Google Vids now supports direct export to YouTube, with videos set to private by default for review before publishing.
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