What’s New Today Qualcomm has unveiled two 2nm Snapdragon platforms designed to bring more AI processing directly to smartphones. Meanwhile, AI infrastructure startups Modal Labs and Baseten are reportedly discussing funding rounds at valuations of around USD 15 billion and USD 26 billion respectively. India’s hiring outlook is also improving, with employers projecting 5.4% workforce growth in the second half of FY27. Tap Global’s Tap Earn crypto programme has crossed USD 8 million in assets under management. Qualcomm has also introduced Snapdragon Sound Elite Gen 2, a platform designed to bring on-device AI and advanced connectivity to earbuds and other audio wearables.
Qualcomm has introduced two 2nm Snapdragon platforms aimed at expanding on-device AI capabilities in premium smartphones. The Snapdragon 8 Elite Extreme Gen 6 sits at the top of the range, while the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 targets a broader premium segment. Nine smartphone brands, including Motorola, OnePlus, Oppo, Vivo and Xiaomi, have been named as participants. Qualcomm shares fell about 1% following the announcement.
AI infrastructure startups Modal Labs and Baseten are reportedly in talks to raise fresh capital at valuations of around USD 15 billion and USD 26 billion respectively. Bloomberg reported that the proposed valuation for Modal would be roughly triple its level four months earlier, while Baseten’s potential valuation would double from USD 13 billion in June. Neither round has closed, and the funding amounts remain undisclosed.
4% between October 2026 and March 2027, according to TeamLease Services. 4% a year earlier. E-commerce, tech startups, travel and hospitality and retail show strong hiring intentions.
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