De Beers’ reform began with hard choices—ending unverified diamond purchases and aligning with transparent governments. The Kimberley Process soon followed, creating a global framework to prevent conflict diamonds from entering the supply chain.

But De Beers didn’t stop there. Its Tracr™ blockchain platform introduced digital traceability, turning each diamond into a record of responsible sourcing.

Through its Building Forever initiative, the company continues to invest in social progress, conservation, and equality—linking the brilliance of its diamonds to tangible community impact.

The story of De Beers and blood diamonds is ultimately one of evolution: from controversy to credibility, from opacity to transparency, and from history to hope for a more ethical future.

Jørgen Watne Frydnes, chair of the Norwegian Nobel Committee, praised Machado for her courage:

“In the past year, Miss Machado has been forced to live in hiding. Despite serious threats against her life, she has remained in the country, a choice that has inspired millions. When authoritarians seize power, it is crucial to recognise courageous defenders of freedom who rise and resist.”

Machado, a former presidential candidate in Venezuela, has emerged as a symbol of resilience and democracy, maintaining her efforts despite significant personal risk.

Trump’s Nobel Hopes Unfulfilled

Donald Trump, who has frequently highlighted his desire for the award, will not receive the 2025 prize. The US President has cited his role in ending seven conflicts and has previously been nominated for brokering the Abraham Accords, which normalized relations between Israel and several Arab nations in 2020.

Although nominations for Trump were submitted, including by US Rep. Claudia Tenney and speculatively by other political figures, the Norwegian Nobel Committee prioritizes the long-term promotion of peace and international fraternity, often recognizing sustained efforts and institutional impact over high-profile diplomatic initiatives.

About the Nobel Peace Prize 2025

This year’s announcement follows other Nobel Prize ceremonies, with awards in medicine, physics, chemistry, and literature presented in Stockholm, Sweden. The economics prize will be announced next Monday. Unlike the other prizes, the Peace Prize is awarded in Oslo, Norway, honoring those who demonstrate extraordinary commitment to peace, human rights, and global cooperation.

The milestone came during England’s 3-0 victory over Wales in a friendly match at Wembley, with goals from Morgan Rogers, Ollie Watkins, and Bukayo Saka securing a dominant win within the first 20 minutes.

Tuchel Applauds Pickford’s Composure and Adaptability

England manager Thomas Tuchel, who took charge in January, praised Pickford for his focus and tactical adaptability throughout the game. Despite being largely untested in the first half, Tuchel highlighted Pickford’s sharpness during critical moments:

“It’s not easy to stay focused in a dominant first half like that… And second half, he had a very difficult save to close his legs very fast. He’s a fantastic shot stopper,” Tuchel said.

The German coach emphasized the importance of Pickford’s calm demeanor and teamwork with defenders, noting that the goalkeeper effectively executed the tactical plan to minimize shots on goal.

“He kept his composure. He stayed calm, kept his focus. This is basically what we demand of him,” Tuchel added. “Well done, congratulations. Fantastic achievement.”

England Continues Strong Form

The win against Wales marks England’s eighth straight victory over the team and highlights the growing cohesion of Tuchel’s squad. Pickford’s record-setting performance cements his status as one of England’s most reliable goalkeepers in modern football.

Sunak said he was “delighted to be working with two of the world’s leading tech firms” and confirmed that all earnings from these roles would be donated to The Richmond Project, a charity he founded to address numeracy challenges in the UK.

Advisory Roles and Scope

The Advisory Committee on Business Appointments (Acoba), which oversees employment for former ministers, outlined that Sunak’s part-time role at Microsoft would involve offering “high-level strategic perspectives” on global and geopolitical trends.

His position at Anthropic — an AI company aiming to compete with OpenAI, Google, and Meta — will function “akin to an internal think tank,” according to Sunak. Acoba highlighted that Anthropic and Microsoft have interests in UK government policy, but confirmed that Sunak’s previous time out of office reduces the potential for unfair access or influence.

Sunak is prohibited from advising on UK government contracts or lobbying ministers for two years from his last day in office.

Tech Expertise and AI Focus

During his premiership, Sunak prioritized technology and AI regulation, including hosting the 2023 AI Safety Summit. In his new advisory roles, he aims to contribute insights to ensure technological developments “deliver improvements in all of our lives,” he said in a social media post.

“We stand on the edge of a technological revolution whose impacts will be as profound as the industrial revolution, and felt more quickly,” Sunak added, emphasizing the potential of AI and emerging technologies to transform society.

Commitment to Constituency and Charity

Despite his Silicon Valley connections, Sunak reaffirmed his commitment to his Yorkshire constituency, calling it “the greatest place on Earth.” All proceeds from his advisory roles will support The Richmond Project, reflecting his ongoing dedication to education and public service.

Sunak also continues as a paid adviser to Goldman Sachs, where he previously worked between 2001 and 2004, further leveraging his expertise in finance and technology.

Discord, a messaging platform popular with gamers and teenagers, confirmed that its own systems were not directly compromised. Instead, the hackers targeted a third-party service responsible for processing appeals in Discord’s age verification system. The stolen data may include personal information, partial credit card numbers, and interactions with Discord’s customer support. Discord emphasized that full credit card details, passwords, and regular messages were not exposed.

The company has revoked the third-party’s access, notified affected users, and continues to investigate the breach. Users are advised to remain cautious of suspicious communications following the incident.

The Growing Importance of Age Verification

Governments, including the UK, have increasingly required online platforms to verify users’ ages for access to adult or restricted content. For companies like Discord, this has meant implementing systems that collect and check ID photos for a subset of their 200 million active users.

Unlike a physical store, which checks a customer’s age without retaining their ID, online systems often store sensitive information, sometimes in ways that leave it vulnerable to hackers. In this case, the initial automated verification system — which used photos to estimate age — was not breached. The vulnerability occurred in the appeals process, where users submitted scanned IDs to contest automated age rejections.

Hackers claim they obtained more than 2 million ID photos, but Discord says this figure is inflated and likely part of an extortion attempt.

Balancing Safety and Privacy

Experts note that collecting less sensitive information could reduce the risk of such breaches. Some advocate for digital government IDs that allow age verification without sending personal photos to external servers.

This incident highlights a broader challenge: as governments push for stricter online safeguards, platforms must find ways to protect users’ data while enforcing age-appropriate access. The Discord hack serves as a cautionary tale of how well-intentioned safety measures can inadvertently create security risks.

The UCU has announced that members will vote later this month on potential nationwide strike action in response to a 1.4% pay offer made over the summer. Employers have described the offer as “the only prudent option” amid mounting financial pressures, while acknowledging it “does not reflect the true value employers place on staff.”

Financial instability is widespread. Data from the Office for Students indicates that four in ten English universities are currently operating in deficit, prompting difficult decisions on redundancies and structural changes. Raj Jethwa, CEO of the Universities and Colleges Employers Association (UCEA), said institutions are seeking to manage these challenges in an “open and fair way.”

UCU General Secretary Jo Grady described the cuts as “brutal,” warning that staff morale has plummeted and students are feeling the impact. She emphasized the need for “stable government funding” to secure the future of higher education.

The government, meanwhile, defended last year’s tuition fee increase as a necessary step to boost university income and indicated further reforms will be outlined in upcoming legislation.

Personal Stories Highlight the Human Impact

Dr Zak Hughes, a chemistry lecturer at the University of Bradford, faces the possibility of redundancy. “There are a lot of stressed and upset people struggling across the institution,” he said. If he loses his job, he fears he may have to return home to live with his mother, despite being in his forties. Even if he retains his position, the chemistry course he teaches is being phased out, reflecting a broader trend of program closures nationwide.

Students are also feeling the consequences. Sanskrity Baraili, a sabbatical officer at the University of Bradford Students’ Union, said cuts to support services, including cleaning and disability services, have already affected student life. “Students are worried about what’s going to happen next,” she added.

Princess Haya Bint Al Hussein, the ex-wife of Dubai ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, has been granted sole responsibility for her children’s schooling and medical care by the UK High Court.

Key Judgement Highlights:

• Sheikh Mohammed displayed coercive and controlling behavior, per UK Judge Sir Andrew McFarlane

• Princess Haya fled the UAE in 2019, fearing for her life and safety

• Sheikh Mohammed abused his ex-wife on a scale beyond ordinary family court cases

• No direct contact allowed between Sheikh Mohammed and his children

What Led to the Landmark Decision?

After escaping to the United Kingdom in 2019, Princess Haya applied for her children, Al Jalila (14) and Zayed (10), to become wards of the UK court. The billionaire ruler of Dubai initially sought their return to Dubai but later abandoned the pursuit.

UK Judge’s Verdict:

• Sheikh Mohammed engaged in domestic abuse and intimidation

• The court limited his parental rights to protect the children

• Princess Haya was awarded £251.5 million to cover security, living expenses, and child welfare

A History of Allegations Against Sheikh Mohammed

Princess Haya’s claims follow previous controversies involving Sheikh Mohammed’s daughters:

• Princess Latifa attempted to escape in 2018 but was forcibly returned to Dubai

• Princess Shamsa mysteriously disappeared in 2000 after an alleged abduction in the UK

Princess Haya’s Statement:

“My children and I are not pawns to be used for division.”

Dubai Ruler’s Response:

A spokesperson for Sheikh Mohammed stated:
“He loves and cares for his children and will always provide for them.”

Why This Ruling Matters?

• Sets a legal precedent for royal family disputes in the UK

• Reinforces international scrutiny on Dubai’s royal governance

• Brings attention to human rights concerns in the UAE

Conclusion

This ruling marks a major legal victory for Princess Haya and her children, highlighting concerns over power, control, and human rights within Dubai’s ruling family.

Design and Display Enhancements

The iPhone 17 is expected to feature a slightly larger 6.3-inch OLED display, compared to the iPhone 16’s 6.1-inch screen. The new model may also introduce a higher resolution of 1200 x 2600 pixels, offering sharper visuals and improved color accuracy.

Additionally, Apple is rumored to be reducing the bezel size and implementing a smaller notch on the iPhone 17, delivering a more immersive viewing experience. Both models will continue to feature Ceramic Shield glass for enhanced durability.

Performance: A19 Bionic Chip & More RAM

Under the hood, the iPhone 17 is expected to be powered by Apple’s new A19 Bionic chip, a step up from the A18 processor found in the iPhone 16. This upgrade, coupled with an increase to 12GB of RAM (up from 8GB in the iPhone 16), promises improved multitasking and overall performance.

Additionally, the iPhone 17 may feature an octa-core processor, a shift from the hexa-core setup of its predecessor, offering greater efficiency for demanding applications, gaming, and AI-driven tasks.

Camera Upgrades: A Leap in Photography

Apple is set to enhance its camera technology with the iPhone 17. Reports indicate a 50MP main sensor with an improved f/1.5 aperture for better low-light photography, alongside a 12MP ultra-wide lens. This marks a significant upgrade from the iPhone 16, which features a 48MP primary sensor.

Selfie enthusiasts can also expect improvements, as the iPhone 17 is rumored to sport a 24MP front-facing camera, doubling the resolution of the 12MP front camera found on the iPhone 16.

Battery Life & Charging Speed

Battery performance is another key area of improvement. The iPhone 17 is expected to feature a 4190mAh battery, a notable increase from the iPhone 16’s 3561mAh capacity. Faster wireless charging support is also anticipated, with the new model expected to support up to 45W wireless charging, compared to the 25W available on the iPhone 16.

Other Features: Connectivity & Software

Both models will support 5G connectivity, satellite emergency SOS, and crash detection. However, the iPhone 17 may introduce Wi-Fi 8 compatibility, potentially offering faster wireless speeds.

Pricing & Availability

The iPhone 16 is currently available at a starting price of ₹72,900, while the iPhone 17 is expected to launch in September 2025. However, pricing details for the iPhone 17 have not yet been confirmed.

Should You Upgrade?

For users considering an upgrade, the iPhone 17 is expected to offer significant improvements in processing power, camera capabilities, and battery life. However, those who are satisfied with the iPhone 16’s performance may find it more practical to wait for future advancements.

As Apple gears up for its next major release, tech enthusiasts are eagerly anticipating how these rumored upgrades will shape the future of smartphones.

The hearing follows two previous rulings against the order. On Thursday, a federal judge in Seattle blocked the policy, criticizing the administration for attempting to alter the Constitution through executive action. A Maryland judge had also issued a nationwide pause on Wednesday in a separate case.

In the Boston lawsuit, the attorneys general—joined by the cities of San Francisco and Washington—are requesting a preliminary injunction from Judge Leo Sorokin. They argue that birthright citizenship is a constitutional right under the 14th Amendment and that Trump's order is an unlawful attempt to strip American-born children of their citizenship.

“The order is a flagrantly illegal attempt to deny citizenship based on parentage,” the attorneys general said, warning that it could impact funding for essential state programs such as foster care, healthcare for low-income children, and early intervention services for infants and students with disabilities.

The legal battle centers on the 14th Amendment, ratified in 1868 in response to the Civil War and the Dred Scott Supreme Court ruling, which denied citizenship to an enslaved man despite his residence in a free state. The U.S. is among approximately 30 nations, including Canada and Mexico, that grant birthright citizenship based on the principle of jus soli, or “right of the soil.”

As the legal challenges mount, the future of birthright citizenship remains uncertain, setting up a high-stakes constitutional showdown that could ultimately reach the U.S. Supreme Court.

Shares of chip giant Nvidia rebounded by 8.8% following a significant slump, as analysts suggested that the initial AI selloff may have been an overreaction. Investors were quick to adjust their bets after DeepSeek claimed it had developed its model at a fraction of the cost compared to US competitors.

The emergence of DeepSeek has raised concerns about the future of America's AI dominance and the financial commitments US companies have made in the sector. President Donald Trump addressed the situation, calling it a "wake-up call" for the US tech industry but also expressing optimism about its potential impact. "If you can do it cheaper and still get the same result, I think that's a good thing for us," he told reporters aboard Air Force One, reaffirming his confidence in America’s leading position in AI.

AI Investment Concerns

Optimism surrounding AI investments has fueled much of the US stock market boom over the past two years, sparking fears of a possible bubble. DeepSeek’s swift success—becoming the most downloaded free app in the US within a week of its launch—has further intensified debates over the sustainability of AI spending.

The US has actively sought to curb China’s progress in AI by restricting access to advanced chip technology. In response, Chinese developers have collaborated to innovate AI models requiring far less computing power, effectively lowering costs and challenging assumptions about AI scalability.

Market Reaction and Nvidia’s Rebound

Nvidia, which has led the AI chip market, was hit hardest on Monday, seeing its stock price drop by 17%, wiping nearly $600 billion off its market value. However, as markets regained confidence, Nvidia shares bounced back on Tuesday, boosting major indices.

By the close of trading, the Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 0.3%, the S&P 500 climbed nearly 1%, and the tech-heavy Nasdaq gained 2%. The FTSE 100, the benchmark index for the UK’s largest publicly traded firms, also ended 0.35% higher.

Meanwhile, AI-related stocks in Japan, including Advantest, SoftBank, and Tokyo Electron, fell sharply, contributing to a 1.4% decline in the Nikkei 225. Many other Asian markets remained closed due to the Lunar New Year holiday, with China’s financial markets set to reopen on February 5.

Who Founded DeepSeek?

DeepSeek was founded in 2023 by Liang Wenfeng in Hangzhou, China. A graduate in information and electronic engineering, Liang also founded the hedge fund that backed DeepSeek.

Recently, he attended a meeting with Chinese Premier Li Qiang, underscoring his growing influence in the tech and finance sectors. In a July 2024 interview with The China Academy, Liang expressed surprise at the global reaction to DeepSeek's pricing strategy, stating, "We didn't expect pricing to be such a sensitive issue. We were simply following our own pace, calculating costs, and setting prices accordingly."

Since its launch earlier this month, DeepSeek has claimed that its R1 model performs on par with OpenAI’s latest technology in mathematics, coding, and natural language reasoning.

Industry Impact and Controversy

DeepSeek’s breakthroughs have drawn praise from figures such as OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, who acknowledged the model’s impressive cost efficiency while maintaining that OpenAI will continue to deliver superior models in the future.

Experts, including Marina Zhang, an associate professor at the University of Technology Sydney, have noted that DeepSeek's success highlights the potential for software optimization to compensate for hardware limitations. Databricks co-founder Ion Stoica suggested that lower AI costs could accelerate industry-wide adoption, expanding market growth.

DeepSeek claims its model can be trained using just 2,000 specialized chips, a stark contrast to the estimated 16,000 required for leading US models. However, some, including tech mogul Elon Musk, have questioned these claims, suggesting that DeepSeek may have stockpiled as many as 50,000 Nvidia chips before US export restrictions took effect.

Cybersecurity Concerns

DeepSeek’s rapid rise has sparked cybersecurity concerns globally. In Australia, Science Minister Ed Husic has urged caution, emphasizing the need for scrutiny regarding data privacy and AI model reliability.

“There are a lot of questions that will need to be answered in time—on quality, consumer preferences, data, and privacy management,” Husic told ABC News.

As the AI race intensifies, DeepSeek’s emergence signals a major shift in global competition, challenging the long-held belief that Silicon Valley will maintain an unchallenged lead in AI innovation.

An independent hearing, scheduled to begin Monday at an undisclosed location, will be pivotal in determining the club’s fate. The charges include violations of UEFA’s Financial Fair Play (FFP) rules and the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR). If found guilty of the most serious offenses, City could face severe sanctions, including point deductions, relegation, or even expulsion from the league. Such a verdict would tarnish City’s historic dominance, which has seen them win four consecutive Premier League titles and their first Champions League in 2023.

This legal battle isn't just about financial regulations but has broader implications for the sport. Manchester City’s success, fueled by the wealth of Sheikh Mansour, a member of Abu Dhabi’s ruling family, has long been a source of controversy. Critics have accused the club of "sports-washing"—using football as a tool to enhance the UAE’s image on the global stage. A guilty verdict could strain not just City’s legacy but also diplomatic ties between the UK and the UAE, one of its key trading partners.

The trial is expected to last 10 weeks, with a final ruling anticipated in early 2025. Both Manchester City and the Premier League have invested millions in legal teams, making this a battle of both financial might and legal expertise. City has vehemently denied the charges, with many speculating that the outcome may hinge on which side presents the stronger legal argument.

City’s troubles began in 2018 when the German outlet Der Spiegel published leaked documents—provided by Rui Pinto, a notorious Portuguese hacker—alleging that City inflated sponsorship income to circumvent UEFA’s financial rules. Since then, both UEFA and the Premier League have investigated the club, culminating in the current charges.

In 2020, City was temporarily banned from European competitions by UEFA, but the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) overturned the decision, citing insufficient evidence. However, the Premier League’s case differs significantly, with no statute of limitations, making it a more formidable challenge for the club.

For the Premier League, this case is not just about enforcing its regulations; it's a critical test of its credibility. The league faces increasing scrutiny over financial transparency and governance, and its handling of this high-profile case will likely shape its future. League CEO Richard Masters recently acknowledged the urgency of resolving the issue, saying, “It is time now” for a conclusion.

As the trial unfolds, the stakes could not be higher for both sides. If Manchester City is cleared, the very foundation of financial regulations in football could be questioned, leaving the league vulnerable to future challenges. But a guilty verdict could alter the course of Premier League history, raising questions about the legitimacy of City’s recent dominance and potentially leading to claims for compensation from rival clubs.

Regardless of the outcome, the trial will define this football season and likely influence the sport for years to come. This unprecedented legal showdown is set to be a watershed moment in the history of both Manchester City and the Premier League.

Researchers at the University of California, Irvine (UCI), and the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), are working on an AI-driven early warning system aimed at predicting future pandemics. This effort is part of the US National Science Foundation’s Predictive Intelligence for Pandemic Prevention program, which funds research aimed at identifying, modeling, and mitigating the effects of potential pandemics.

A key part of this project is a database of over 2.3 billion U.S. social media posts, collected since 2015. Prof. Chen Li, a lead researcher at UCI, explains that AI can scan social media streams to identify early indicators of outbreaks. By analyzing posts, the system can predict upcoming health crises, track the spread of disease, and evaluate the impact of public health interventions. "We’ve developed a machine-learning model that identifies significant events, like the onset of epidemics, from social media," says Prof. Li.

However, there are challenges. The system heavily relies on data from X (formerly Twitter), which is not accessible in every country. Prof. Li acknowledges the current focus is primarily within the U.S. "We’re working to address data gaps and biases as we expand to other regions."

AI is also playing a significant role in monitoring virus mutations. Developed by Harvard Medical School and the University of Oxford, an AI tool called EVEScape ranks new variants of viruses like coronavirus every two weeks. The tool has made accurate predictions not only about COVID-19 but also about HIV and influenza. According to Nikki Thadani, one of EVEScape's developers, the AI provides early insights into virus mutations, which can be useful for vaccine manufacturers and researchers working on treatments.

The pharmaceutical industry is already reaping the benefits of AI in this area. Jim Wetherall, Vice President of Data Science and AI at AstraZeneca, says AI has significantly accelerated the discovery of new antibodies, which are critical for vaccine development. Using AI, the company can screen thousands of antibodies in a matter of days, compared to months using traditional methods. This capability, Wetherall notes, is crucial for staying ahead of rapidly mutating viruses like COVID-19.

The Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI), which funded EVEScape, views AI as an indispensable tool in preparing for future pandemics. Dr. In-Kyu Yoon, director of programs and innovative technology at CEPI, emphasizes that AI speeds up pandemic preparedness, but cautions that AI’s effectiveness depends on the quality of the data it receives. "AI is a tool, but it can only be as good as the information it’s fed."

Despite the promise of AI, there are ethical and practical hurdles to overcome. Dr. Philip AbdelMalik of the World Health Organization (WHO) stresses that AI should not be expected to make decisions independently. AI can highlight potential threats and help track dangerous misinformation, but it is still up to humans to interpret the data and take action. Dr. AbdelMalik also warns against the dangers of biased data, saying, "If the data input is flawed, the output will be too."

Ultimately, while AI is an exciting tool in pandemic prevention, experts agree that human factors—like trust and cooperation—are just as important. "We’re better off now than we were three years ago," says Dr. AbdelMalik, "but technology alone isn’t enough. We need stronger relationships and better information sharing to truly be prepared for the next pandemic."

As AI continues to develop, it promises to play a crucial role in detecting, preventing, and managing future pandemics. However, the success of these efforts will depend not just on technological advancements but on global collaboration and the trust we place in each other.

What’s the DOJ’s Argument?

The DOJ’s case, filed in January 2023, centers on Google’s alleged anticompetitive practices within the ad tech sector. The department argues that Google has monopolized the ad tech market by controlling all facets: tools for publishers to sell ad space, tools for advertisers to purchase ads, and the exchange that connects the two.

According to the DOJ, Google has used acquisitions to eliminate competitors and then leveraged its market dominance to compel more publishers and advertisers to use its services. The DOJ highlighted Google’s 2008 acquisition of DoubleClick for Publishers, which it claims significantly contributed to Google’s overwhelming control of the market.

“Google’s isn’t here because they are big,” DOJ lawyer Julia Tarver Wood stated during opening arguments. “They are here because they use that size to crush competition.”

Google’s Defense

Google contends that the DOJ’s perspective on the ad tech market is outdated. The company argues that the market is highly competitive with players like Comcast, Disney, Walmart, Target, Microsoft, Amazon, and Meta also participating. Google’s lead attorney, Karen Dunn, criticized the case as being based on an antiquated view of the internet.

The tech giant also asserts that the case attempts to force it to engage with competitors in ways that antitrust laws do not require, given that companies generally are not obligated to deal with rivals.

Impact of the Search Case Decision

This ad tech trial follows a recent ruling by U.S. District Judge Amit Mehta, who found that Google had unlawfully maintained a monopoly in online search. While the search case and the ad tech trial involve different markets and behaviors, the former’s outcome may influence the latter, especially regarding market definitions.

Roger Alford, a law professor at the University of Notre Dame, suggested that the search case’s decision on market definitions could benefit the DOJ in the ad tech case. Conversely, Rebecca Haw Allensworth from Vanderbilt Law School pointed out that the antitrust laws might be less favorable to plaintiffs in this case.

Looking Ahead

The ad tech trial is expected to last four weeks and will be closely watched for its implications on Google’s business practices and broader antitrust enforcement. Discussions regarding potential remedies from the search case are ongoing, with a resolution anticipated by August 2025.

As the trial unfolds, it will not only shape Google’s future operations but also impact the broader regulatory landscape for big tech companies.

The iPhone 16 is notable for its integration of generative AI, allowing users to create text and images using natural-language prompts. The new devices will soon be available for pre-order and purchase through various platforms including Flipkart, Amazon, and the Apple Store.

For those who recently bought the iPhone 15, there may be a silver lining. Apple’s retail policy in India offers a potential refund for customers who purchased an iPhone model within 14 days before a price drop. If you bought an iPhone 15 within the last two weeks and Apple subsequently reduces the price after the iPhone 16 launch, you could be eligible for a refund of the price difference.

This refund policy is part of Apple’s price protection plan, which allows customers to request refunds for up to ten units of a single model. Thus, if you or your family members purchased up to ten iPhone 15 units, you can apply for a partial refund for each unit. To access this refund, proof of purchase is required.

The iPhone 16 is priced at ₹79,900 in India, with the iPhone 16 Plus at ₹89,900. The iPhone 16 Pro starts at ₹1,19,900, and the iPhone 16 Pro Max is priced at ₹1,44,900. Notably, the iPhone 16 Pro models are ₹15,000 cheaper than the launch prices of the iPhone 15 Pro models in India last year.

"Let me tell you about this woman," Biden said, placing his hand on Harris’s shoulder. "I know her, I trust her." He expressed unwavering confidence in Harris’s potential as a future president, highlighting her expertise and integrity. “If you elect Kamala Harris as president, it will be the best decision you have ever made,” he asserted.

In a bid to solidify her support among blue-collar voters, Harris joined Biden in Pennsylvania to address concerns over the proposed acquisition of U.S. Steel by Japan's Nippon Steel Corporation. The $14.9 billion deal has faced opposition from the United Steelworkers union, which supports Harris.

Harris emphasized Biden’s longstanding commitment to labor, describing him as a "lifelong friend" of the labor movement. She voiced strong support for keeping U.S. Steel domestically owned, aligning with Biden’s stance against the merger.

Nippon Steel defended the acquisition, stating that it would strengthen the American steel industry. U.S. Steel also argued that the deal would enhance its global competitiveness.

Labor leaders, including AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler and International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers President Kenneth Cooper, rallied behind Biden and Harris, emphasizing their pro-union credentials. Harris has garnered endorsements from major labor unions, though the International Brotherhood of Teamsters remains undecided.

Harris, who visited Detroit and Pittsburgh on Labor Day, underscored the value of unity and collective strength in the labor movement. “Look to what labor tells us about the power of the collective and unity,” she said.

Biden and Harris's campaign efforts are particularly focused on key swing states like Wisconsin, Michigan, and Pennsylvania, as they work to consolidate labor support and build momentum for the upcoming election.