The semiconductor industry plays a pivotal role in powering technological advancements across various sectors including AI, robotics, home appliances, industrial applications and more. As the demand for innovative semiconductors rises, governments worldwide are introducing policies and initiatives to support production and development. This analysis delves into the current state of the global semiconductor sector, identifying leading companies and countries making significant strides in the industry.
Market Capitalization Analysis: Leading Companies in Semiconductor Investment
In the ever-evolving semiconductor sector, companies like NVIDIA, TSMC, Broadcom, ASML and Samsung have emerged as key players with substantial market capitalization. Among these, NVIDIA leads the pack with its focus on AI, machine learning and data processing making it one of the most valuable companies in the sector. Following NVIDIA are TSMC, Broadcom, ASML, Samsung and Qualcomm, all of which play crucial roles in semiconductor manufacturing and design.
NVIDIA’s recent launch of the Grace Blackwell GB200 NVL4 Superchip is designed to handle more complex AI applications, while TSMC’s continued advancements in 3D stacking and extreme ultraviolet (EUV) lithography are setting the stage for even more powerful chips in the near future. TSMC is particularly notable for its role in advancing semiconductor production technologies such as the development of the 2nm (N2) technology, which pushes the boundaries of semiconductor miniaturization.
Broadcom and ASML continue to lead in areas like semiconductor equipment and optoelectronics, while companies like Samsung, Qualcomm and AMD focus on producing cutting-edge chips for consumer electronics, telecommunications and high-performance computing. These companies have significantly contributed to the growth of industries like robotics, AI and the Internet of Things (IoT) with new product releases and collaborations forming the backbone of future technologies.
Country-wise Analysis: Leading Countries by Number of High-value Semiconductor Companies
The United States remains the undisputed leader in semiconductor manufacturing, hosting nearly 45 companies among the top 100 by market capitalization. This significant dominance is supported by a strong ecosystem of innovation, supported by both private and government investments. The CHIPS and Science Act, signed into law in 2022 has played a vital role in accelerating semiconductor production and research within the U.S. This policy aims to enhance domestic production capabilities, reducing dependence on foreign supply chains and promoting the development of next-generation semiconductor technologies.
Following the U.S. are Taiwan and Japan, both of which have over 10 companies each in the top 100 by market capitalization. Taiwan’s TSMC has led the way in semiconductor manufacturing, with the country being a vital hub for advanced semiconductor production. Japan’s contributions lie in its strength in materials and manufacturing equipment with major players like Sony, Renesas and Toshiba continuing to innovate in specialized semiconductor markets. These three countries - USA, Taiwan and Japan have established themselves as the dominant forces driving the global semiconductor race, with strong government policies, technological expertise and industry-leading research shaping the future of the sector.
Revenue-wise Analysis: Top Earning Semiconductor Companies
In terms of revenue generation, Samsung leads the semiconductor market maintaining its position as the global leader in memory chips and consumer electronics. The company’s diverse product portfolio ranging from memory modules used in smartphones to high-performance DRAM chips for servers has made it the top revenue earner in the semiconductor space. Behind Samsung, NVIDIA, TSMC, Intel, Broadcom, SK Hynix, Qualcomm, Micron Technology, ASML and Applied Materials contribute substantially to global semiconductor revenues.
Samsung’s strength lies not only in its extensive product offerings but also in its long-standing partnerships with top brands like Apple, which relies on Samsung’s OLED displays for its iPhones. Similarly, TSMC continues to benefit from high demand for advanced chips from leading companies in the electronics, automotive and computing sectors. Companies like Broadcom, Qualcomm and Intel also remain crucial revenue earners with their contributions to networking, telecommunications and data processing solutions solidifying their positions in the global semiconductor ecosystem.
Profit-wise Analysis: Leading Companies by Profit
When it comes to profitability, Nvidia stands out as the leader, enjoying the highest profit margins in the semiconductor industry. Nvidia’s success in AI, machine learning and high-performance computing has significantly boosted its profitability with surging demand for its GPUs across sectors such as gaming, automotive and data centers.
TSMC follows closely behind, benefiting from its unbeatable ability to produce cutting-edge chips for major tech companies globally. Its significant investments in research and development along with its focus on high-value foundry services for clients like Apple, AMD and Nvidia have made it one of the top performers in terms of profits.
Broadcom, Intel and Qualcomm round out the top five. Broadcom’s position in networking and broadband technologies has contributed to its consistent profitability. Intel, traditionally a dominant player in microprocessors, continues to innovate in areas like autonomous vehicles and AI. Similarly, Qualcomm’s leadership in wireless communication technologies has helped maintain its strong profitability in the competitive semiconductor market.
Future Outlook: The Evolving Semiconductor Landscape
The semiconductor industry continues to grow at a remarkable pace driven by the ever-increasing demand for innovative products across industries such as AI, robotics and telecommunications. Leading companies like NVIDIA, TSMC and Samsung have cemented their positions as market leaders in terms of both market capitalization and revenue generation. The United States, Taiwan and Japan lead the race in terms of the number of high-value semiconductor companies, supported by strong government support and technological advancements. As the industry moves forward, these companies and countries are expected to continue driving the innovation needed to power the next wave of global technological advancements.
Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2025 held from January 7-10 at Las Vegas introduced a variety of impressive robots unveiled by both startups and well-established companies. These robots cater to different needs ranging from human-like companions and pet-like assistants to smart home assistants and industrial robots. The showcase also included robots designed for surveillance, children, elderly care and robotics developers. This article takes a closer look at these innovative robots and explores their potential to transform daily life and industries across the globe.
Mirokaï - A Pet like Robot for Logistical Tasks and Interaction
Mirokaï is an innovative robot that combines captivating design with advanced technology, offering an interactive and adaptable solution for various tasks in diverse environments. Developed by French startup Enchanted Tools, Mirokaï aims to revolutionize the way humans and robots interact by providing a seamless and engaging experience.
Mirokaï is designed with simplicity, efficiency and agility in mind. Standing at 1.3 meters tall and weighing 30 kilograms, this robot offers impressive mobility by its unique rolling globe, enabling swift and smooth movement in any direction. The robot is equipped with 28 degrees of freedom, 12 time-of-flight cameras and a host of other advanced sensors that enhance its navigation, interaction and task performance.
One of Mirokaï’s standout features is its intuitive real-time animated facial expressions which allow for lifelike interactions. The robot’s connected handles and opposable thumbs achieve an exceptional 97% grasping success rate, surpassing the standard 60% in most robots. This makes Mirokaï highly versatile in performing various tasks from grasping objects to navigating complex spaces.
Mirokaï is well-suited for environments such as hospitals, hotels, airports and restaurants, where it can assist with logistical tasks while prioritizing human interaction. Its 8-hour battery life and ability to carry loads of up to 3 kg make it perfect for tasks like delivering trays in healthcare settings or transporting items in hospitality venues. With its unique design and functionality, Mirokaï is expected to be available on the market by 2025-2026, targeting large-scale production to meet the needs of various industries. Enchanted Tools aims to produce 100000 units within the next decade, offering a robot that seamlessly integrates into daily life, transforming how humans and machines collaborate.
Loona - A Smart Petbot Merging Play and Learning for Families
Loona by KEYi Tech is an intelligent petbot designed to bring joy, learning and companionship to families, especially those with children. Combining advanced AI with an engaging personality, Loona provides endless entertainment, educational interactions and emotional connection. Equipped with a robust AI engine capable of 5 trillion calculations per second, it ensures fast decision-making and seamless interaction through voice, gesture and facial recognition with 95% accuracy.
Loona offers a wide range of features including exciting games like bullfighting and follow the leader, keeping kids entertained for hours. Its ability to recognize family members through facial recognition ensures personalized experiences for everyone. With a focus on learning, Loona adapts to children’s habits and preferences, encouraging curiosity and developing a love for discovery. Powered by ChatGPT, Loona serves as a knowledgeable companion, answering questions and providing AI-generated visuals for an engaging learning experience.
Designed with security in mind, Loona processes most data locally to ensure privacy. It comes with a 2-hour playtime battery and automatically recharges using its docking station. Its advanced sensors including 3D Time of Flight (ToF), touch and gyroscope sensors, allow precise navigation. Loona's compact build and user-friendly features make it an ideal choice for families, providing a unique combination of playfulness and functionality.
KEYi Tech's founder, Jianbo says Loona is more than just a robot. Inspired by his lifelong fascination with robotics, he aimed to create an emotional companion blending technology with human interaction. Loona is designed to be 80% pet and 20% friend, making it a perfect addition to homes that want the joy of a pet without the challenges. With Loona, families can experience fun, learning and companionship in a whole new way.
Lynx All Terrain Robot - A Quadruped Robot Designed for Harsh Environments and Surveillance
DEEP Robotics has launched the Lynx All-Terrain Robot, designed to handle different types of surfaces and environments. The robot has a compact design and uses a special wheel-leg system, making it fast and agile. It reflects DEEP Robotics experience in creating robots for practical uses in industries.
Lynx is built to work in tough conditions. It can climb platforms up to 80 cm high, step over 22 cm obstacles and move at a speed of 5 m/s. Its dual battery system allows it to work continuously for three hours or cover a distance of up to 15 km without needing a recharge. The batteries are also easy to swap, ensuring less downtime.
This robot is made for all-weather tasks and has an IP54 protection rating, which makes it resistant to any harsh weather. It has features like a wide-angle 1080P camera for clear visuals, Wi-Fi and GPS for better navigation and the ability to send images and videos in real-time. The robot can be controlled using an app or a handheld remote.
Lynx is powered by advanced artificial intelligence from DEEP Robotics 'AI+' program, which enables it to adapt and perform tasks effectively across various environments. It also supports over-the-air updates (OTA), ensuring it can receive improvements and updates easily. The robot weighs 30 kg and can carry a load of up to 12 kg, making it suitable for carrying tools or equipment. It works in temperatures between 0°C and 40°C, making it reliable for industrial or home application. With its practical design and useful features, the Lynx All-Terrain Robot is a dependable option for industries that need a robot for tough environments and varied tasks.
Ropet - A Robot Pet for Emotional Support and Companionship
Ropet is an AI-powered robot pet designed to provide emotional support and interactive experiences. It uses ChatGPT to enable conversations in over 50 languages. Even offline, Ropet can respond with basic words to keep interactions smooth and engaging. Ropet recognizes faces, gestures and emotions through advanced visual recognition. It remembers its owner and people who interact with it often. It reacts with emotions like joy, affection or hunger, making it feel more personal. It can also recognize objects and food, displaying them on its expressive eyes. When it senses sadness, Ropet offers comfort by extending its arms for a hug.
The robot dances to music with moves that are randomly generated, creating unique performances every time. Users can customize its appearance with different eye styles, masks and outfits. Users earn interaction points in the app by engaging with the robot, which can then be used to unlock various designs and customization options, making the experience fun and personal.
Ropet features wireless charging, a Type-C port and a tumbler-style base for playful movement. It also has dynamic lights on the charging dock that sync with music. Weighing 600 grams, Ropet operates for two hours on a 30-minute charge. Its camera and microphone are discreetly placed to ensure a natural look and feel, with most data stored locally to maintain privacy.
This AI pet is ideal for people who cannot care for real pets but need companionship. It suits children, elderly users and busy professionals by offering emotional support without needing feeding, walking or grooming. Ropet is compatible with iOS and Android, with a Pro version featuring additional features. Created by a team of experts from Stanford and leading tech companies, Ropet represents a new step in emotional AI. It combines advanced technology with warmth to create a unique, interactive companion.
Booster T1 - A Humanoid Robot that Can Play Soccer and Do Dynamic Activities
The Booster T1 by Booster Robotics is an advanced humanoid robot designed for both performance and versatility. Standing 1.2 meters tall and weighing 30kg, it can walk, do push-ups, kick a soccer ball and even strike kung fu poses. With 23 degrees of freedom including flexible joints and a peak knee torque of 130N.m, the T1 is designed to perform dynamic movements with ease. It’s particularly popular in robotics research due to its powerful AI capabilities offering 200 TOPS of AI performance, which makes it well-suited for tasks like soccer in competitions such as RoboCup.
The T1 is equipped with a depth camera and optional LIDAR for vision, as well as a microphone array and speaker for audio interactions. Its high-strength metal and engineering plastic shell makes it durable and resistant to falls. It can recover from falls on its own, showcasing its resilience in active environments.
Developers will appreciate the easy-to-use ROS2 compatibility, various simulation environments like Isaac Sim and Webots and multimodal interaction support including voice recognition and text-to-speech features. Whether you're a robotics enthusiast or a professional developer, the Booster T1 offers cutting-edge features for experimentation and development. With a battery life of 1.5 hours when walking and 3.5 hours when standing, the T1 ensures lasting performance for long-duration tasks.
Jennie - A Robotic Dog for Companionship and Emotional Support
Jennie, the lifelike robotic dog by Tombot is more than just a product. It’s a companion designed to offer comfort and emotional support to individuals dealing with challenges such as Alzheimer, anxiety and loneliness. Inspired by the founder’s personal journey with his mother, Jennie brings the warmth of a real pet without the demands of traditional animal care.
This robotic puppy features remarkable interactive capabilities. Equipped with touch sensors all over her body, Jennie reacts to gentle strokes or petting, mimicking the behavior of a real dog. She responds to voice commands, offering a range of actions, from barking on command to wagging her tail, ensuring users feel engaged and connected. The real puppy sounds, captured from a 12-week-old Labrador, further enhance the lifelike experience making Jennie a soothing presence for those in need of companionship.
Jennie is powered by a rechargeable battery, allowing users to interact with her throughout the day and recharge her overnight. With a free smartphone app, users can customize Jennie’s features, track daily interactions and even update her commands through software upgrades. This app gives users complete control, offering a customized experience that grows over time.
What sets Jennie apart is its affordability. At a price point of $1500, it’s a much more accessible option compared to other robotic pets in the market, which can cost thousands. More than just a toy, Jennie is a lifeline for many, helping combat the loneliness and emotional strain often experienced by individuals with dementia or other health conditions.
Jennie is not just a robot. She’s a companion offering the joy of a pet without the challenges of pet care. With Jennie, the therapeutic power of animal companionship is now available to those who need it most. Jennie creating moments of joy, comfort and emotional connection with a simple touch or command.
Apollo - A Humanoid Robot for Industrial Tasks
Apptronik, a robotics firm based in Austin, Texas unveiled its humanoid robot - Apollo which is designed for industrial applications and eventual expansion into diverse sectors like construction, healthcare and retail. Drawing from its experience with over 10 robot models including NASA’s Valkyrie, Apptronik has positioned Apollo as a transformative solution in the robotics industry.
Apollo's key features include its height of 5’8”, weight of 160 pounds and ability to lift up to 55 pounds. It is equipped with advanced force control architecture, ensuring safe operations around humans. The robot’s modular design allows flexibility, enabling Apollo to be mounted on various platforms, either mobile or stationary. It also features hot-swappable batteries with a four-hour runtime, ensuring continuous operation.
Apollo’s design incorporates intuitive communication tools such as LED indicators on its head, mouth and chest. These LEDs provide visual indications to users, enhancing its interaction by displaying the robot’s status, emotions or actions, creating a more engaged and user-friendly experience. Its ability to navigate human spaces makes it versatile for tasks like trailer unloading, case picking, palletization and machine tending. Apptronik has partnered with Mercedes-Benz for factory pilots, which began in March 2024. These projects test Apollo’s efficiency in real-world industrial environments. Similarly, the company also made collaborations with Figure and BMW and Agility and Amazon highlighting its growing trend of integrating humanoid robots into manufacturing and logistics.
Apollo made its in-person debut at CES 2025 where Attendees noted Apollo’s smooth movements and welcoming design which contrasts with the darker industrial aesthetics of other robots. Apptronik plans to roll out beta units for field pilots by 2025 with commercial availability expected by late 2025. As Apollo undergoes rigorous testing and development, its potential to revolutionize warehouse operations and beyond is gaining momentum.
Aria - A Human Like Robot for Interaction and Companionship
Realbotix has introduced Aria, a human-like robot designed to redefine how humans interact with machines. With a focus on connection and companionship, the company aims to create robots that are not only realistic in appearance but also capable of emotional and engaging interactions.
Aria offers a high level of customization, allowing users to choose between pre-designed models or create unique configurations. The robot is available in male, female or completely customized forms. Aria uses 17 motors to replicate natural human eye and mouth movements, creating a more lifelike and engaging expression. These motors allow Aria to exhibit nuanced facial gestures that enhance the emotional connection with users. The modular design ensures that users can swap faces, hairstyles and even colors in seconds. Special RFID tags enable Aria to recognize these changes and adjust its personality and behavior accordingly, making it a highly adaptive companion.
There are three models of Aria available. The bust version featuring just the head and neck, costs $10,000. A modular version that can be disassembled is priced at $150,000, while the fully standing model with a rolling base, designed for smooth mobility costs $175,000. Though Aria cannot walk, its rolling base allows for immersive and interactive experiences. The purpose behind Aria’s development is to address loneliness and to form a meaningful human connection. According to Andrew Kiguel, CEO of Realbotix, the focus is on making robots that express emotions and engage in meaningful conversations. Aria’s advanced AI enables real-time interactions, making it suitable not only as a personal companion but also for roles in hospitals or theme parks.
Since its launch, Aria has sparked strong reactions on social media. Some users have admired its realistic design, while others have shared mixed opinions. The ability to change its appearance and personality has added to the product's appeal. Realbotix believes Aria is a step toward bridging the gap between humans and machines, making technology more personal and interactive.
G1 - A Versatile Dual-Arm Robot for Industrial and Home Tasks
The G1 - Galbot is an advanced mobile dual-arm robot designed to assist across various industries including home, retail, manufacturing and pharmacy. It brings artificial general intelligence (AGI) capabilities into everyday life, performing tasks such as cleaning, decluttering and fetching items in homes, stocktaking and restocking in retail environments, sorting and packaging in manufacturing and delivering medicines and managing inventories in pharmacies. The robot’s versatile functions make it an ideal tool for increasing productivity and efficiency in multiple sectors.
Galbot’s standout feature is its focus on dexterous grasping, which enables the robot to manipulate objects with the same flexibility as humans. The development of DexGraspNet, a massive dataset containing 1.32 million grasps across 5355 objects is a key milestone in enhancing the robot's capabilities. This dataset allows Galbot to learn various ways to handle objects with diverse textures and shapes, offering a higher success rate in complex manipulation tasks. Galbot’s work in this area has been enhanced by utilizing NVIDIA Isaac Sim, a platform that accelerates the robot's learning process and enables cross-dataset experiments, improving its ability to perform in real-world scenarios.
The most recent version, DexGraspNet 2.0 expands on this by enabling dexterous grasping in cluttered environments, achieving a 90.7% success rate in real-world testing. This success in sim-to-real transfer makes Galbot’s technology highly applicable for tasks requiring fine motor skills, further driving its adoption in industries that demand precision and versatility.
With its 173 cm height, 190 cm arm span and 10-hour runtime, the G1 - Galbot represents the forefront of robotics, offering an effective solution for various tasks across industries, further cementing its role in revolutionizing the future of robotics.
AI Me - A Pet-Like Robot for Companionship and Smart Home Assistance
TCL's AI Me Robot is a revolutionary advancement in artificial intelligence, designed to be an intelligent and emotionally responsive companion for users. Introduced at CES 2025, this robot blends cutting-edge technology with a highly interactive and personalized user experience. Equipped with advanced sensors, cameras and AI-driven capabilities, AI Me can engage in meaningful conversations, provide assistance and adapt to its environment. Its emotionally intelligent design allows it to understand and respond to human emotions, making it more than just a machine. It becomes a partner that shares experiences and enriches daily life.
The AI Me Robot boasts several key features that enhance its functionality. Its modular design allows it to detach from a space capsule base, making it portable and easy to move around. It can be paired with smart devices to control home functions such as adjusting temperature settings and can also serve as a surveillance camera when needed. Additionally, AI Me's AI capabilities enable it to recognize and describe objects, making it a useful tool for both everyday assistance and security purposes. The robot’s expressive digital eyes, which change based on its mood adds a unique and engaging element to its design, creating an interactive experience that feels human-like.
One of AI Me’s standout features is its ability to integrate with smart cars, offering control over infotainment and essential settings. At night, it can monitor the home, ensuring security while creating AI-generated images and animations for children before bedtime. TCL's AI Me is designed to grow with its users, learning from interactions and continuously improving its responses. This makes it an ideal companion for families, offering both functional support and emotional connection.
While still a concept, AI Me represents the future of AI-driven companionship, seamlessly blending technology with human interaction and promising to redefine how robots are integrated into daily life.
Go2 - A Quadruped Robot for Surveillance and Adaptive Assistance
Unitree's Go2 is a highly advanced, intelligent quadruped robot designed for a variety of applications, from home assistance to complex industrial tasks. Built on embodied AI, the Go2 integrates sophisticated sensors and algorithms to offer autonomous navigation, adaptive movement and powerful interaction capabilities.
The robot's standout feature is its upgraded 4D LiDAR system, which offers an impressive 360° x 90° hemispherical view for recognition, providing exceptional terrain adaptability and obstacle avoidance with minimal blind spots. The Go2 can autonomously navigate, map areas and follow designated paths, making it ideal for tasks like delivery, surveillance and data collection. The robot’s motor performance has been enhanced by 30%, offering increased strength, stability and flexibility. With a peak joint torque of 45N.m, Go2 is capable of performing dynamic movements such as jumping, climbing over obstacles and even upside-down walking, demonstrating remarkable agility.
The battery capacity of Go2 has also seen a 150% upgrade, allowing for extended operation times between 2 to 4 hours, depending on usage. With a high-capacity 15000mAh battery available as an option, users can expect improved energy efficiency, stability and power.
For intelligent interaction, Go2 features real-time HD image transmission and remote monitoring via its dedicated app. This system supports a range of communication and control options including voice commands and graphical programming, which makes it user-friendly for both beginners and advanced users. Additionally, Go2 offers several variants including the AIR, PRO and EDU models, each designed to different needs from personal use to educational and professional applications. Overall, Unitree’s Go2 represents a leap in robotic technology, combining versatility, intelligence and powerful hardware to create a highly capable and flexible robotic assistant for various industries and everyday tasks.
Romi - A Conversational & Emotional Companion Robot to Combat Loneliness
Mixi Inc. has unveiled Romi, an innovative emotional support robot designed to combat loneliness, anxiety and depression. Showcased at CES 2025, Romi is more than just a traditional AI. It’s an empathetic companion that interacts with users through genuine conversations, offering a unique solution for those struggling with isolation.
What sets Romi apart is its ability to engage in natural, free-flowing dialogue. Unlike robots with pre-defined responses, Romi uses an advanced proprietary communication AI to facilitate dynamic conversations. This deep learning AI continuously adjusts its responses according to the conversation’s flow, making it capable of responding thoughtfully to a wide range of topics. Romi’s emotional intelligence is further amplified by its capacity to express over 150 facial expressions and movement patterns, which help convey empathy and warmth in every interaction. Whether users are happy, sad or frustrated, Romi can communicate in ways that feel emotionally supportive.
Since its launch, Romi has found its place in homes, classrooms, healthcare facilities and senior care centers. Its success in Japan has been particularly noteworthy, as it has been used to help elderly residents in nursing homes feel less isolated. Romi’s presence has even been shown to enhance communication in classrooms, helping children develop their speaking skills and connect with each other. The robot’s ability to foster interaction among patients with anxiety or those recovering from surgery has made it a valuable tool in medical environments as well.
Looking ahead, Mixi plans to expand Romi’s availability internationally. This robot, which currently retails in Japan is set to be released in a new model, Romi Lacatan in spring 2025. With ongoing development and enhancements including improved memory and long-term learning, Romi is set to become a key player in emotional well-being and social care.
ADAM - A Humanoid Robot Designed Mainly for Beverage Service
ADAM, developed by Richtech Robotics is an AI-powered humanoid robot designed to transform beverage service. Serving as a bartender, barista and boba maker, ADAM offers businesses an all-in-one solution to streamline beverage preparation. With its advanced technology, ADAM can craft cocktails, serve barista-quality coffee and create perfectly-blended bubble tea, all with precision and consistency.
ADAM’s AI technology allows it to interact with customers, provide drink recommendations and adapt to changing environments. Equipped with two agile arms, ADAM efficiently handles complex recipes, ensuring speedy service while maintaining high-quality standards. The robot’s design is adaptable to different environments, making it suitable for a wide range of venues such as restaurants, stadiums and coffee shops.
Recent installations of ADAM demonstrate its versatility. In Illinois, ADAM serves a variety of drinks at a One Kitchen restaurant inside a Walmart, offering a selection of boba tea and specialty coffee. At the Texas Rangers MLB Stadium, ADAM delivers cocktails and mocktails to fans in high-volume settings. ADAM also enhances the coffee experience in Oakland’s Botbar and provides a unique menu at the Walmart Ghost Kitchens in Atlanta.
ADAM’s features contribute to business efficiency by reducing waste, optimizing labor costs and eliminating product variation. With 24/7 operation, ADAM maximizes revenue generation while ensuring customers enjoy perfect drinks every time. Furthermore, ADAM engages customers with real-time conversations and responsive movements, making interactions enjoyable and memorable. In summary, ADAM combines advanced AI, robotic efficiency and a customer-friendly experience, offering a unique solution for businesses looking to improve beverage service and create an unforgettable experience.
Ballie - The AI-Powered Home Companion Robot for Smart Living
AI-powered home companion robot of Samsung Electronics, Ballie has made significant strides since it was first introduced at CES 2020. As of January 2025, Ballie is still not yet fully available for consumers, but Samsung has made substantial progress in refining the robot and it is now set to debut in the U.S. market later this year.
Ballie is designed to autonomously navigate homes, assisting with a variety of household tasks. It connects to and controls home appliances, continually learning user’s patterns to offer smarter, more personalized services. Ballie provides peace of mind by sending video updates of pets or loved ones when users are away from home. It can also set the perfect ambiance for any situation, whether that’s playing music, projecting workout videos or answering calls.
At CES 2025, Samsung highlighted the latest advancements in Ballie’s capabilities. The robot now includes a built-in projector that can stream content onto various surfaces, further enhancing its role as a multifunctional companion. For example, Ballie was seen projecting the movie Uncharted during demonstrations and responding to voice commands such as resizing the projected image or offering information about local attractions.
Ballie comes equipped with multiple sensors and cameras to create a 3D map of the home, while also recognizing foot taps as a unique input method. Additionally, users can control smart home devices, receive weather updates and ask questions via voice commands. While Samsung has yet to disclose a specific release date or pricing details, the company confirmed that Ballie will ship to consumers later in 2025.
Reachy 2 - An Open-Source Humanoid Robot for Developers and Robotic Researchers
Reachy 2, the latest innovation from Pollen Robotics is an open-source humanoid robot designed to cater to both developers and robotics enthusiasts. This versatile robot stands out as a platform for embodied AI and real-world applications, offering an engaging and intuitive experience for beginners while meeting the advanced needs of researchers. Its ability to perform object manipulation in diverse environments including homes, hospitals, offices and retail spaces, showcases its practicality and adaptability.
At its core, Reachy 2 runs on ROS2 Foxy and can be controlled via Python or teleoperated through a VR interface. Developers can dive into its Python SDK to quickly prototype and implement ideas. The VR teleoperation feature provides a seamless experience, allowing users to remotely control its arms, hands and head while viewing the environment through Reachy’s cameras. With 7-DOF bio-inspired arms, Reachy 2 mimics human-like movements, lifting objects up to 3 kg and demonstrating dexterous manipulation.
The robot is offered in four configurations - single-arm or dual-arm setups, with the option of a mobile or stationary base. The most comprehensive kit includes a dual-arm setup and a mobile base equipped with three omniwheels, a LiDAR system and multiple sensors for smooth navigation and extended working space. Its advanced vision system includes RGB-D cameras, stereo microphones and depth perception capabilities, enabling precise interactions and natural human-robot collaboration. The robot's expressive head and motorized antennas enhance its ability to communicate effectively in various environments.
For developers, Reachy 2 is a powerful tool for machine learning. Its CPU-powered processing unit supports seamless compatibility with modern AI frameworks and enables rapid exploration of new learning models. With support for Docker-based software stacks, OTA updates and real-time monitoring, developers can optimize the robot for complex tasks efficiently.
Since its launch, Reachy 2 has been adopted by leading institutions including Cornell University, Hugging Face and Carnegie Mellon University. These partnerships highlight the robot’s potential in fields ranging from advanced AI research to real-world applications. Its open-source nature ensures accessibility, enabling developers and researchers to contribute to and expand the platform. Reachy 2 represents a significant step forward in humanoid robotics, offering a modular, adaptable solution that empowers innovation.
Everspin Technologies has a rich history that dates back to 1996 when it was part of Motorola’s Magnetoresistive Random Access Memory (MRAM) group. Selected by DARPA for its mission-critical technology initiative, Everspin's roots were firmly grounded in the defense sector. Following Motorola's spin-off of its semiconductor business in 2004, Everspin continued its growth under Freescale, eventually becoming an independent entity in 2008. Today, Everspin is at the forefront of MRAM technology, offering advanced products like Spin-Transfer Torque MRAM (STT MRAM), a breakthrough that has significantly expanded the capabilities of memory solutions.
We had the opportunity to have an interactive interview session with Sanjeev Aggarwal, the CEO of Everspin Technologies, who has been with the company for over 16 years. Sanjeev has seen the company evolve through key milestones from pioneering MRAM products to driving innovations that shape the memory industry. In this Q&A session, he shares insights into MRAM technology and Everspin’s journey. Let’s dive into the session below:
Q: How would you define MRAM and how is it better than other memory technologies like EEPROM, Flash and SRAM?
MRAM (Magnetoresistive Random-Access Memory) operates using two magnetic layers separated by an insulating layer. The bottom layer, known as the fixed layer, maintains its polarization direction, which is designed to be fixed, while the polarization of the top layer or free layer can be manipulated. When the free layer aligns with the fixed layer, electrons pass through the insulating layer with low resistance, representing a "0" state. When the layers are oppositely aligned, the resistance is high, corresponding to a "1" state. This binary system forms the basis of MRAM.
The free layer polarization direction can be manipulated using a magnetic field, which forms the basis of our first generation MRAM, Toggle MRAM, shown on the left in the figure below. Alternatively, the free layer can be switched by passing a current through the tunnel barrier, which forms the basis of our second-generation MRAM, Spin-transfer Torque MRAM (STT-MRAM) shown on the right in the figure below.
MRAM stands out from other memory technologies like EEPROM, Flash and SRAM due to its combination of non-volatile memory and fast access times. Technologies like EEPROM and Flash, while reliable, have limited endurance and often fail after hundreds of thousands of read/write cycles. In contrast, MRAM offers unlimited read/write cycles and faster speeds. MRAM’s adaptability across industries further enhances its value. It can serve the needs of different sectors, such as storage, data logging and configuration memory (like NOR Flash). For example, DRAM requires low latency and frequent read/write cycles, while the data logging industry demands high temperatures, fast speeds and the ability to handle unlimited read/write cycles. MRAM is highly versatile and can be designed to mimic characteristics of DRAM, SRAM or Flash, offering customized solutions to meet specific industry needs, including industrial-grade temperatures of up to 125°C and extreme conditions like -40°C.
Everspin’s MRAM products, like the 256 Megabit DDR3 and 1 Gigabit DDR4, have been particularly dominant in the storage industry, with companies like IBM using these products since 2017. Meanwhile, our Toggle MRAM has been adopted in data logging applications, offering access times under 35 nanoseconds, comparable to SRAM, without the need for a battery backup due to its non-volatile nature.
One of the standout advantages of MRAM, especially in data logging applications, is its reliability. Once the magnetic state is set, it remains stable unless deliberately altered, making it highly reliable in critical data integrity environments. For instance, MRAM is used in industrial automation and casino gaming, where fast read-write speeds and data security are paramount. Companies like Siemens and Schneider use MRAM in programmable logic controllers (PLCs) for process automation systems, ensuring immediate recovery of operations after a power loss, thus preventing production downtime.
In casino gaming, MRAM allows for real-time data recording, enhancing transaction speeds and enabling better service for operators and gamblers. MRAM’s tamper detection feature ensures that any unauthorized attempts to alter the data using a magnetic field will be recorded and halted, providing an added layer of security.
Additionally, MRAM is an ideal solution for configuration memory, offering high-speed, high-cycle performance even at automotive temperatures (-40°C to 125°C). Unlike Flash, which has a limited number of read/write cycles and slower speeds, MRAM can handle millions of cycles and provides write times three orders of magnitude faster than NOR Flash. For over-the-air updates, MRAM can implement changes within a second, whereas Flash may take several minutes, making MRAM a superior choice for modern applications.
Embedded MRAM is also gaining momentum as major foundries like GlobalFoundries, Samsung and TSMC offer embedded MRAM as a scaling solution for Flash. While our focus remains on standalone MRAM, these foundries are incorporating MRAM into their manufacturing capabilities, enabling the use of MRAM in a wider range of applications.
Q: Which industries are adapting to MRAM technology the fastest and how is MRAM positioned to address the limitations of flash and DRAM in the market?
The data logging industry has been one of the fastest to adopt MRAM due to its differentiating features, with strong success seen in the Industrial Automation applications with companies like Siemens, Schneider and Mitsubishi. We've experienced rapid intake and significant design wins in this sector.
In contrast, the adoption of MRAM to replace NOR Flash has been slower. Emerging technologies often face the challenge of competing with the incumbent solution, in this case for decades, and being cost-effective. However, we're now at a point where flash technology can no longer scale efficiently. Flash CMOS faces limitations at the 40-nanometer node, requiring a new solution. MRAM offers a superior alternative to flash at lower CMOS nodes and enables higher densities.
For instance, with 40-nanometer flash CMOS, densities usually reach 256 megabits or 512 megabits, best case. In comparison, MRAM provides a monolithic solution with one gigabit and the potential to scale up to 4 gigabits in the future, making it a highly capable solution for industries where flash is reaching its limit.
Regarding the DRAM industry, we're already shipping 256-megabit and one-gigabit DDR interface parts to companies like IBM. We're also working on the next generation, which will be a four-gigabit memory part. We are considering using the CXL (Compute Express Link) interface for this product as it allows MRAM to be used both as buffer memory and data logging memory across multiple servers, significantly improving server efficiency. We are currently working on a demo with CXL MRAM and expect to complete it in Q1 of this year, marking a key step in the development of MRAM for DRAM applications.
Q: MRAM seems to combine the advantages of both flash and SRAM, offering faster read-write cycles and scalability into smaller packages. What is the trade-off in terms of cost and how does MRAM compare with other technologies in terms of pricing?
MRAM does indeed offer the benefits of both flash and SRAM, with faster read-write cycles and the ability to scale into smaller packages. However, the trade-off comes in terms of cost. Everspin’s MRAM is at least 2X to 3X more expensive than NOR Flash, and more relative to DRAM.
Currently, our MRAM solutions include a one-gigabit part, while DRAM has already reached densities of 16 gigabytes and higher. This puts MRAM at a disadvantage when directly addressing the storage industry, where larger densities are needed. As a result, MRAM will likely remain a buffer memory solution as we specialize in this area. For example, IBM uses our memory in flash core modules to prevent data loss during power outages. When power is lost, DRAM buffers typically lose all data, but by writing to our MRAM, the data is preserved and the server is not corrupted.
While MRAM is not yet able to compete with the high-density storage solutions of NAND Flash or DRAM, it has made significant inroads in industries like data logging, where NOR Flash and SRAM is struggling to scale. Our design wins and revenue are primarily from data logging applications and we expect revenue from NOR Flash replacement to grow as we release higher-density solutions such as a one-gigabit part later this year.
The market for standalone flash, with densities above 256 megabits, is around $3 billion, and MRAM is uniquely positioned to meet the needs of this market as flash continues to face limitations. However, for commercial or consumer markets, which are more cost-sensitive, the value proposition of MRAM is harder to sell. Our focus remains on industrial and automotive markets, where customers are willing to pay for the added reliability and performance MRAM offers.
Q: Power cuts are often mentioned in industries like automotive, industrial automation and servers. Are power cuts that common in servers and industrial automation and do you foresee MRAM becoming the standard memory solution for servers in the future?
Yes, power cuts can occur in servers and industrial automation. Flash core arrays in servers typically rely on battery backups to prevent data loss during power failures. These batteries are regularly replaced because losing server data is unacceptable. By replacing DRAM and the batteries with MRAM, which doesn’t require a battery backup, the cost can be reduced while ensuring data reliability. IBM, for example, saw the value of MRAM and adopted it, while others have been more resistant due to the significant change involved.
As for MRAM’s future in servers, while it's optimistic to think it will be adopted universally, it's realistic to say that server manufacturers will increasingly look to non-volatile, persistent memory solutions. We believe MRAM offers the best solution in this space. As we achieve higher densities and develop the necessary interfaces, MRAM is well-positioned to expand its customer base and gain wider adoption over time.
Q: What are the current challenges Everspin is facing in terms of technology and market penetration?
From a technology perspective, Everspin faces limitations due to the manufacturing capabilities of its eight-inch facility in Chandler, where its Toggle MRAM is produced and R&D for STT-MRAM takes place. The facility lacks the advanced lithography capabilities found in 12-inch lines, meaning we are unable to produce interconnects at 22-nanometer or 12-nanometer scales. While we can do the necessary materials and core IP development at Chandler, we rely on partners like Global Foundries in Singapore and Germany for scaling. Recently, we also partnered with TSMC as a foundry partner, and we depend somewhat on their scaling roadmaps to support our efforts. Though these limitations don’t hold us back entirely, they are important factors to consider when introducing new technologies.
On the market side, cost is a significant challenge. Since we offer MRAM at a premium compared to standard memory, it’s important to demonstrate its value to potential customers. Once customers understand the value, they are more likely to incorporate MRAM into their designs. For example, our 4-megabit part, which was qualified in 2006, continues to see new design wins. It is a product that once adopted, users tend to keep as long as cost pressures don’t force them to make a change.
Q: What is the vision for Everspin moving forward? Will there be more collaborations to address the manufacturing aspect and what is the company's strategy for the future?
The key to Everspin’s future lies in maintaining strong partnerships and constantly bringing value to the table. Our focus will continue to be on developing and commercializing innovative technologies. We currently maintain over 650 patents worldwide and prioritize IP development, which is central to our business strategy. Our differentiator is not just the technology but also our ability to successfully commercialize it.
Looking ahead, we have several technologies ready for commercialization. One of the areas we’re particularly excited about is AI inference on the edge. For example, in edge devices such as cameras, MRAM can replace traditional memory types like SRAM or DRAM. With MRAM on the edge, configuration and computing can be done locally without relying on the cloud. This reduces latency and enhances performance, making MRAM highly relevant for AI applications at the edge. To fully capitalize on this, we plan to collaborate with partners to develop the necessary software for these solutions.
In terms of market potential, we are targeting the $3 billion high-density NOR Flash market, where we anticipate strong growth over the next 4-5 years. Additionally, we are working on a demo using the CXL interface, which we believe will help Everspin re-enter the storage industry by enabling us to scale our products and meet industry demands for higher-density solutions.
With the current product lineup, particularly the PERSYST family, which offers fast data logging and unlimited read-writes, we are confident that Everspin can reach a $100 million revenue milestone within the next five years. These innovations will serve as the foundation for growth with additional opportunities accelerating our revenue trajectory.
Q: Regarding your sales and geographic market, which countries or regions do you see adopting MRAM quickly and what is your view on India’s potential in adapting to this technology or semiconductor technology in general?
Everspin has a global presence, with our revenue split equally across the Americas, EMEA (Europe and the Middle East) and Asia, contributing about one-third each to the $60 million in revenue we generated last year. However, our presence in India is currently limited. Since last year, I’ve attended SEMICON and am planning to visit Bangalore towards the end of this month to meet with potential distributors as we are looking to expand in that market.
India is a promising market for MRAM, especially with companies like Mahindra and Tata leading the way in electric vehicles (EVs) and electrical batteries. MRAM’s strong performance in high-temperature environments and fast data logging capabilities make it ideal for applications such as black box memory, battery management systems and engine control units. These applications are critical for EVs and other high-tech industries, which is why MRAM is already being used in high-profile vehicles such as the Lucid Air, Bugatti and BMW sports engines.
As more people recognize MRAM’s potential in these industries, I’m hopeful that Everspin will make further inroads into the Indian market. While our markets have been growing uniformly across all regions, our products have consistently demonstrated reliability, with over 150 million parts shipped over the last decade and very few returns, underscoring the strong value we bring to various industries worldwide.
Pankaj Panjwani, CEO and Founder of KeenSemi, brings over 25 years of experience in semiconductor design, leading successful projects across domains like Physical Design, Machine Learning, Functional Verification and SoC/ASIC design. In 2016, he founded Keenheads to provide high-value semiconductor design services specializing in areas such as FPGA, embedded design and Design for Test. Recently, he shared his vision for the future of the industry in the article "The Future of Semiconductor Design: Trends Shaping the Next Decade". Below, we dive into his insights which outline the key trends set to define the semiconductor landscape in the coming years.
Semiconductors, the backbone of modern technology, are on the cusp of transformative growth. As industries worldwide integrate emerging technologies like AI, IoT, and quantum computing, the semiconductor landscape is set to evolve dramatically. There are several trends shaping semiconductor design over the next decade, with an emphasis on India’s burgeoning role.
Generative AI and the Demand for Advanced Semiconductors
Generative AI is poised to redefine semiconductor design and functionality. The global demand for AI-enabled chips is expected to grow exponentially, driven by B2B and B2C applications. By 2030, the compute demand for generative AI alone could surge by 25 times, with substantial growth in industries such as healthcare, automotive, and customer engagement systems. This demand underscores the need for advanced chips capable of handling vast computational loads while optimizing energy efficiency.
Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) and the Next Compute Frontier
While Generative AI has already transformed semiconductor demand, the emergence of Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) introduces an entirely new frontier. Unlike narrow AI, AGI aspires to perform tasks across multiple domains with human-like adaptability and reasoning.
The realization of AGI will require unprecedented computational power, emphasizing ultra-advanced semiconductors capable of dynamic learning, real-time data processing, and massive parallel computations. AGI’s compute demands are expected to surpass those of generative AI, with specialized chips needing exponential improvements in processing speed and energy efficiency. This trend will drive innovation in chip architecture, including neuromorphic designs and quantum elements, enabling AGI’s multifunctional capabilities.
India’s Strategic Focus on Semiconductor Ecosystem Development
India, recognizing the strategic importance of semiconductors, has initiated robust policy measures to bolster its position in the global semiconductor market.
Key Initiatives Include:
Semiconductor Manufacturing Incentive Schemes: Programs like the Semiconductor and Display Fab Ecosystem and Design Linked Incentive Scheme aim to attract domestic and international players.
India Semiconductor Mission (ISM): This long-term initiative focuses on creating a sustainable semiconductor manufacturing ecosystem, supported by government subsidies and strategic partnerships.
Cluster-Based Development: States like Gujarat are investing in semiconductor parks to enhance collaboration and resource efficiency.
With a projected 20% CAGR, India’s semiconductor market, valued at $27 billion in 2022, highlights its potential as a global semiconductor hub.
Chip Design Innovations: AI, IoT, and 5G
The convergence of AI, IoT, and 5G is driving innovation in chip design. AI accelerators, edge computing chips, and 5G-enabled processors are pivotal to the next wave of technological advancements. For instance, companies are developing semiconductors optimized for low latency and high bandwidth to support autonomous vehicles and smart city infrastructures.
Global Collaboration and Talent Development
India’s emphasis on fostering global partnerships has bolstered its semiconductor aspirations. Collaborations with countries like the US and Japan aim to secure supply chains, enhance R&D capabilities, and develop a skilled workforce. These partnerships are critical for India to bridge gaps in manufacturing and resource constraints.
Sustainability in Semiconductor Manufacturing
As the semiconductor industry scales, environmental concerns are becoming a priority. The focus is shifting towards sustainable practices, such as reducing energy consumption during manufacturing and developing recyclable materials for chip components. Indian startups are particularly active in this area, integrating green technologies into their designs.
Challenges and Opportunities
Despite Its Promising Trajectory, India Faces Several Challenges:
Manufacturing Infrastructure: While India excels in chip design, a lack of advanced fabrication facilities limits its competitiveness.
Capital Intensity: Semiconductor manufacturing requires substantial investment, which can deter smaller players.
Supply Chain Dependencies: Heavy reliance on imports for raw materials and components remains a vulnerability.
Addressing these challenges through policy support, foreign investment, and innovation will be key to unlocking India’s full potential.
The Global Perspective
Globally, the semiconductor industry is expected to reach $1 trillion by 2030, driven by advancements in AI, quantum computing, and the proliferation of IoT devices. India’s contributions to this growth are increasingly recognized, especially as it aligns with global efforts to decentralize semiconductor supply chains.
India At The Helm Shaping The Future Of Semiconductor Innovation
The semiconductor industry stands at the intersection of technology and strategy, shaping the future of innovation. India’s proactive policies, coupled with its robust talent pool and strategic collaborations, position it as a critical player in the global semiconductor landscape. As challenges are addressed and opportunities harnessed, the next decade promises a transformative era for semiconductor design, with India playing a pivotal role.
Expert Q&A: Insights from Pankaj Panjwani in Discussion with Circuit Digest Team
Q. How is the rise of Generative AI and Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) increasing the demand for semiconductors in India, and how well is India prepared to take advantage of this growing demand?
Generative AI and AGI are transforming industries across the globe, driving an insatiable demand for high-performance semiconductors capable of handling massive computational loads while optimizing energy efficiency. In India, this demand is reflected in applications ranging from smart cities and healthcare to automotive technologies and customer engagement platforms.
India's preparation to meet this demand stems from its growing emphasis on semiconductor design expertise. The country has long been a global leader in chip design, and with the increasing adoption of AI in business and consumer technologies, Indian semiconductor firms are aligning their capabilities to develop AI-specific chips. For example, companies are creating edge computing solutions and AI accelerators to cater to domestic and global markets.
However, when it comes to manufacturing, India still faces significant challenges, including the absence of large-scale fabs and a reliance on imports for key raw materials. To address this gap, the government has launched strategic initiatives like the Semiconductor and Display Fab Ecosystem and the Design Linked Incentive Scheme. While these initiatives are promising, their effectiveness will depend on long-term execution, investments in research and development, and fostering partnerships with global semiconductor players.
Q. How do you believe India’s strategic initiatives like the India Semiconductor Mission and various manufacturing incentive schemes are helping position the country as a key player in the global semiconductor market?
India’s strategic initiatives are laying the groundwork for its emergence as a significant player in the global semiconductor market. The India Semiconductor Mission (ISM) is a standout effort, focusing on creating a sustainable ecosystem for semiconductor manufacturing and design. By offering government subsidies, incentives, and facilitating partnerships with global leaders, ISM is addressing critical gaps in manufacturing infrastructure.
Additionally, manufacturing incentive schemes like the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme and the Design Linked Incentive (DLI) Scheme have created a favorable environment for investment in semiconductor design and production. These programs aim to attract domestic and international players by reducing costs and encouraging innovation.
Cluster-based development in states like Gujarat, where semiconductor parks are being developed, promotes collaboration, resource efficiency, and knowledge sharing. Such measures, coupled with India’s reputation for a robust IT and software sector, strengthen its position in the global semiconductor supply chain. However, sustained investment in advanced fabrication facilities and reducing reliance on imported raw materials remain critical for achieving self-reliance.
Q. What do you think about India’s skilled workforce in the semiconductor sector? Are they ready to contribute to the country’s semiconductor evolution, or is there a need for more skill development to meet the challenges ahead?
India’s workforce has long been recognized for its expertise in engineering and IT, particularly in semiconductor design. With a substantial pool of engineers and researchers trained in chip design, verification, and embedded systems, India is well-equipped to drive innovation in this area. Organizations and academic institutions like the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) are producing top-tier talent that contributes to global semiconductor R&D efforts.
However, the evolving nature of semiconductor technology, especially with the advent of generative AI, AGI, and quantum computing, demands a workforce skilled in cutting-edge fields like AI chip architecture, neuromorphic computing, and photonics. To bridge this gap, there is a pressing need for enhanced skill development programs that focus on specialized training in semiconductor manufacturing, fabrication technologies, and advanced chip design.
Government and industry partnerships, such as training initiatives under the ISM and collaborations with global semiconductor leaders, are critical for equipping India’s workforce with the necessary expertise. With strategic skill development, India’s talent pool has the potential to drive its semiconductor aspirations and contribute to the global industry.
At CircuitDigest, we've been creating and sharing Internet of Things (IoT) projects with our community for a long time. A crucial part of these projects is enabling communication between IoT devices and end users, and when it comes to simple notifications, nothing beats the practicality of sending an SMS.
However, sending an SMS from devices like Arduino, ESP32, or other embedded systems typically requires a GSM module with a working SIM card. While this method is valid, it has its drawbacks: 1. Outdated 2G Networks: Popular modules like SIM800 are becoming obsolete since major telecom providers have phased out 2G services (at least in India). 2. Cost and Complexity: Using 3G or 4G GSM modules increases costs, power consumption, and project complexity. 3. Scalability: Sending SMS from a single device is straightforward, but scaling this for multiple devices can become cumbersome.
An ideal solution would be to use an SMS API, which is why we created the CircuitDigest Cloud SMS API. After extensive research and community feedback, we found that existing SMS services were often too complex or not tailored for hobbyists and engineers working on early prototypes. This is where our SMS API comes in—easy to use, free, and designed specifically for makers in India.
What is CircuitDigest Cloud?
CircuitDigest Cloud is an initiative aimed at empowering engineers, makers, and hobbyists with essential tools for rapid prototyping. In addition to the SMS API, we also offer other useful APIs, such as QR Code Scanning and License Plate Recognition, for those interested in expanding their projects.
How to Send SMS Using CircuitDigest Cloud API?
Using the SMS API from CircuitDigest you can easily send SMS from your IoT Development boards like Arduino R4, ESP32, ESP8266, Raspberry Pi etc. It is as simple as creating an account on circuitdigest.cloud, registering your mobile numbers and using any of the pre-defined SMS templates to send a message of your choice.
Currently this service is available only for the users in India, and each user can send a maximum of 100 SMS/month for free which we believe will be enough for most practical applications. In order to prevent spamming we have made sure that users can send SMS only numbers that are already linked to their account using a OTP verification.
Disclaimer: At the time of writing this article our cloud platform is functional but yet to have some cosmetic updates. We intend to build it with time and add more functionalities
Step 1: Visit the Circuit Digest Cloud Home Page. Click the "Login" button located at the top right corner to be redirected to the login page.
Step 2: If you already have an account, log in using your existing credentials. If not, go to the registration page to create an account by filling in the required details. Once completed, click "Register Now" to sign up.
Step 3: After registering, use your email ID and password to log in on the login page.
Step 4: Once logged in, click on "My Account" at the top right corner.
Step 5: You will be directed to a page where you can generate your API Key. Enter the captcha text in the provided box, then click the "Submit" button.
Step 6: If the captcha is correct, you'll see a table displaying your API Key along with its expiration date and usage count. Currently, there is a limit of 100 calls per month. Once you reach this limit, you can generate another key, giving you an additional 100 calls. This usage limit is in place to prevent abuse of our free service.
Step 7: In order to send an SMS to a phone number you should first link it with your account. To do that enter your 10-digit phone number in the “Link Phone Number” text box, solve the captcha, and click on get OTP
Step 8: A 4-digit OTP will be delivered to your phone number, which you can enter and verify OTP. If done correctly you will see the new phone number appearing on your profile page under the Linked Phone Numbers section.
Now you can send an SMS to this phone number using our API. In order to send an SMS you have select one of the SMS formats from below.
SMS Templates for CircuitDigest SMS API:
Template ID
Template Type
Message
101
Device Status Alert
Your {#var#} is currently at {#var#}. -- Powered by CircuitDigest for the Engineers and Makers of India. Visit www.circuitdigest.com.
102
Temperature Alert
The temperature in {#var#} has reached {#var#}°C. Please take necessary action. -- Powered by CircuitDigest for the Engineers and Makers of India. Visit www.circuitdigest.com.
103
Motion Detected
Motion detected by {#var#} in the {#var#}. Investigate immediately. -- Powered by CircuitDigest for the Engineers and Makers of India. Visit www.circuitdigest.com.
104
Battery Low Alert
The battery level of {#var#} is critically low at {#var#}%. Recharge immediately. -- Powered by CircuitDigest for the Engineers and Makers of India. Visit www.circuitdigest.com.
105
Periodic Reminder
Your {#var#} is currently at {#var#}. -- Powered by CircuitDigest for the Engineers and Makers of India. Visit www.circuitdigest.com.
106
Service Reminder
It’s time to service your {#var#}. Last service was on {#var#}. -- Powered by CircuitDigest for the Engineers and Makers of India. Visit www.circuitdigest.com.
107
Error Notification
Error {#var#} has been detected in {#var#}. Please troubleshoot immediately. -- Powered by CircuitDigest for the Engineers and Makers of India. Visit www.circuitdigest.com.
108
Door/Window Status
The {#var#} is currently {#var#}. Please ensure safety. -- Powered by CircuitDigest for the Engineers and Makers of India. Visit www.circuitdigest.com.
109
System Reboot
The system {#var#} has been rebooted at {#var#}. Verify functionality. -- Powered by CircuitDigest for the Engineers and Makers of India. Visit www.circuitdigest.com.
110
Location Tracking
The device {#var#} is currently located at {#var#}. -- Powered by CircuitDigest for the Engineers and Makers of India. Visit www.circuitdigest.com.
111
Task Completion
The task {#var#} has been successfully completed at {#var#}. -- Powered by CircuitDigest for the Engineers and Makers of India. Visit www.circuitdigest.com.
112
Connection Lost Alert
The connection with {#var#} was lost at {#var#}. Please check the network or device. -- Powered by CircuitDigest for the Engineers and Makers of India. Visit www.circuitdigest.com.
113
Maintenance Needed
The {#var#} requires maintenance. Detected issue: {#var#}. -- Powered by CircuitDigest for the Engineers and Makers of India. Visit www.circuitdigest.com.
114
Overload Alert
The {#var#} is experiencing an overload. Current load: {#var#}. Please reduce usage. -- Powered by CircuitDigest for the Engineers and Makers of India. Visit www.circuitdigest.com.
115
Unauthorized Access
Unauthorized access detected in {#var#} at {#var#}. Verify immediately. -- Powered by CircuitDigest for the Engineers and Makers of India. Visit www.circuitdigest.com.
As you can see the above table shows the most commonly used 15 SMS templates, with a template ID. Each template has two variables marked at {#var#} whoes value can be passed from the development board in real time. In order to call this SMS API the user has to send the following four values
1. API Key: Can be obtained from circuitdigest cloud profile page 2. SMS Template ID: Can be selected form the table above 3. Variable 1: You can pass up to 30 alphanumeric characters, excluding special characters 4. Variable 2: You can pass up to 30 alphanumeric characters, excluding special characters
API Endpoint
Base URL:https://www.circuitdigest.cloud/send_sms HTTP Method: POST Query Parameter ID: The Template ID of the SMS (e.g., 101) Headers Authorization: API key for secure access. Content Type: application/json
Request Body:
The API expects a JSON payload with the following fields:
Field
Type
Description
mobiles
String
The recipient's mobile number(s), prefixed with 91
var1
String
Placeholder for the first dynamic value in the template.
var2
String
Placeholder for the second dynamic value in the template.
Testing CircuitDigest SMS API using Python:
We have provided a simple Python code to send SMS using the CircuitDigest SMS API below. You can use this code to test if your API key is working as expected. Make sure to modify the below code with your actual API key, mobile number and variables of your choice before running the code
API Response
The API returns a JSON object with the request status. Below is a sample response:
{ "status": "error", "message": "Invalid API key", "code": 401 }
Notes and Best Practices
1. Mobile Number Format: Always prefix numbers with the country code (91 for India). 2. Template Validation: Ensure the provided Template ID matches the server's configuration. 3. Rate Limiting: Monitor usage limits and regenerate keys as needed. 4. Error Handling: Implement robust error handling for API responses.
Common Errors
Error Code
Message
Cause
401
Invalid API key
API key is missing or incorrect.
400
Bad Request
Missing required fields in the request body.
403
Rate Limit Exceeded
Maximum request limit reached for the API key.
More Code Examples
The API has been tested with the NodeMCU but can be used with any development boards capable of connecting to internet. We will provide links to all the tutorials using this API, complete with code and circuit diagrams, as usual.
We hope this will be useful for quickly testing and deploying your ideas. If you build something using the API, please share it with us, and we will mention your work on this page. Happy building!
In 1984, India laid the foundation for its semiconductor dream by establishing Semiconductor Complex Limited (SCL) in Chandigarh. This bold move came three years before Taiwan’s TSMC, now a global leader in semiconductor manufacturing, was even founded. With strong engineering talent and a growing electronics market, India seemed poised to become a major player in the semiconductor industry.
However, while TSMC surged ahead to dominate the global market, India’s plans stumbled. Challenges like outdated technology, insufficient funding, poor infrastructure and a devastating fire at SCL in 1989 ruined progress. Meanwhile, Taiwan prioritized strategic investments and industry-friendly policies, allowing TSMC to grow into a giant that powers everything from smartphones to advanced AI systems.
As India works to revive its semiconductor ambitions with new policies and partnerships, the contrast between its journey and TSMC’s success offers important lessons. What held India back and can the country overcome its past mistakes to finally carve a place in the global semiconductor ecosystem?
Tracing the Roots: India’s Semiconductor History
1980s: Beginning of the Journey
India's semiconductor journey began in the 1980s with the establishment of Semiconductor Complex Limited (SCL) in Chandigarh. The goal was to make India self-reliant in semiconductor production and lay the foundation for the country’s electronics industry. However, the initiative faced numerous challenges, including inadequate funding, outdated technology and poor infrastructure, all of which hindered its growth.
Despite some progress, such as moving from a 5-micron to a 0.8-micron process technology, the project suffered a major setback when a devastating fire in 1989 destroyed much of the infrastructure, stalling India's semiconductor ambitions.
1990s: Shift from Manufacturing to Design
While manufacturing faced difficulties, India's IT sector began to flourish in the 1990s, setting the stage for a shift towards semiconductor design rather than production. Leveraging its strong software expertise, companies like Wipro, Infosys and Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) invested in R&D and contributed to the global semiconductor industry.
This period saw India becoming a hub for semiconductor design and embedded systems, although the country remained heavily reliant on imports for semiconductor manufacturing from countries like Taiwan, South Korea and China.
2000s: Rising Design Capabilities and Missed Opportunities
As the new era started, India continued to grow in semiconductor design and embedded systems, but manufacturing remained stagnant. The Indian government did not make significant investments in semiconductor fabrication plants, unlike Taiwan and China, which were establishing state-of-the-art facilities.
India’s policies also struggled to align with global trends, preventing the country from securing a competitive position in semiconductor manufacturing. Although India’s IT and design capabilities expanded, its inability to establish a domestic manufacturing facility kept it behind global semiconductor leaders.
2010s and Beyond: Slow Progress towards Manufacturing
By the 2010s, India’s semiconductor market developed, but challenges in building semiconductor fabs continued. The Electronics System Design and Manufacturing (ESDM) sector grew significantly, from $65 billion in 2011 to $94 billion by 2015, but the manufacturing infrastructure was still weak.
Factors such as a lack of technological infrastructure, insufficient R&D investment and high capital costs for semiconductor fabrication limited progress. Moreover, competition from countries with lower labor costs, like China and Vietnam, further hindered India’s growth.
Despite these challenges, India’s design capabilities continued to improve. The government eventually recognized the strategic importance of semiconductor manufacturing and began implementing financial incentives and policy reforms aimed at boosting domestic production.
While India has faced setbacks, recent efforts signal a renewed focus on building a stronger semiconductor manufacturing ecosystem, which could enable the country to take a more prominent role in the global semiconductor supply chain. India's semiconductor journey, though marked by missed opportunities and slow progress, now appears poised for a new phase, with increasing investments and policies aimed at closing the gap in semiconductor manufacturing and establishing India as a key player in the global semiconductor market.
Missed Opportunities: Understanding the Failures
India's semiconductor journey has been shaped not only by its progress but also by several missed opportunities that have hindered its growth in the industry. One of the most significant missed opportunities occurred in the 1970s when Fairchild Semiconductor, a leading American tech company, considered establishing a manufacturing facility in India. At the time, India seemed like an attractive market with its large population and growing demand for electronics.
However, governmental delays, slow decision-making and restrictive industrial policies led Fairchild to choose Malaysia instead, which offered a more favourable environment for tech development. This missed opportunity marked a key moment when India lost out on early semiconductor expertise and investment.
In addition to Fairchild, Texas Instruments also considered collaboration with India in the 1980s but chose other countries due to the restrictive regulatory environment. Similarly, India's lack of strong intellectual property protection and outdated policies discouraged many multinational companies from setting up R&D and manufacturing facilities.
Meanwhile, South Korea Taiwan and Malaysia emerged as semiconductor hubs by offering incentives, lower labour costs and more favourable policies. Taiwan's TSMC capitalized on international investments, building a strong domestic semiconductor ecosystem. India, however, lagged behind due to its limited economic policies and lack of support for semiconductor development.
India's focus on self-reliance and the import substitution policy further hindered foreign collaboration, delaying the growth of high-tech sectors like semiconductors. Additionally, the public sector-led development model limited competition and innovation, unlike countries like Taiwan and South Korea, which encouraged private sector growth.
Lessons from the Past: Building a Stronger Foundation
The failures of the past offer valuable insights that are shaping India’s new approach to semiconductors. With the lessons learned from previous setbacks, India is now taking strategic steps to build a more resilient and sustainable semiconductor ecosystem. The country is focusing on four key areas:
Focus on Manufacturing
The most significant lesson learned from the past is that semiconductor manufacturing is essential. While India has traditionally been strong in semiconductor design, the country must now shift its focus toward building strong fabrication plants. In recent years, the Indian government has taken extensive steps for the establishment of semiconductor manufacturing units in the country. This shift is key for India to reduce its dependency on semiconductor imports and to compete in the global market.
Investment in Talent Development
India’s strength lies in its vast population of engineers and skilled professionals. The country has a well-established reputation for producing high-quality software engineers and IT professionals. However, the semiconductor industry requires specialized skills in areas such as chip fabrication, lithography and material sciences. To meet this need, India is focusing on creating a skilled workforce capable of working in semiconductor manufacturing and design. Educational institutions and technical institutes are developing personalized programs to train professionals for the semiconductor sector.
Strategic Global Partnerships
To catch up with global leaders in semiconductor manufacturing, India is now focused on establishing strategic partnerships with countries and companies that have advanced semiconductor technologies. Collaborations with global giants such as Intel, TSMC and Samsung are expected to bring valuable technological expertise and investment to India’s semiconductor ecosystem. These collaborations will help India bridge the technological gap, join into global supply chains and accelerate its transition toward becoming a semiconductor manufacturing hub.
Strengthening the Supply Chain
India’s semiconductor supply chain has historically been slow and limited, with a reliance on imports for raw materials, components and advanced manufacturing equipment. In the future, India must focus on building a self-sustaining semiconductor supply chain that can meet domestic demand and serve global markets. This includes setting up fabrication units, establishing strong supply lines for silicon wafers, packaging and testingand ensuring the availability of the necessary infrastructure.
Current Initiatives by Indian Government
In recent years, India has significantly increased its focus on the semiconductor industry, with the government announcing several initiatives to build a comprehensive ecosystem. Some of the key initiatives include:
Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for Semiconductors
Launched in 2020 April, the PLI scheme aims to provide financial incentives to companies that set up semiconductor manufacturing units in India. Under this scheme, the government has promised to cover a significant portion of the capital costs involved in establishing semiconductor fabs, which will make it more attractive for international players to invest in India. This initiative has already attracted interest from companies like Vedanta, Foxconn, Powerchip Semiconductor, CG Power, Renesas and HCL who are looking to build fabs in the country.
Semicon India Program
Launched in 2021 December, the Semicon India Programme is a strategic initiative designed to create a complete semiconductor manufacturing ecosystem in India. The program is focused on three main areas:
Design and Innovation: Encouraging R&D and innovation in semiconductor design.
Manufacturing and Infrastructure: Establishing world-class semiconductor manufacturing facilities in India.
Talent Development: Creating specialized training programs and institutes to develop a skilled workforce.
This program is expected to lay the base for a self-sustaining semiconductor industry in India.
Collaborations with Global Players
India is actively pursuing partnerships with leading semiconductor manufacturers worldwide. These collaborations will allow India to benefit from advanced technologies and best practices in semiconductor production. For instance, India is working with the United States on semiconductor supply chain strengthening, Taiwan on technology transfer and Japan on research and development.
Incentives for Private Investments
Several large domestic multinationals, including Tata Group and Vedanta, have announced major investments in semiconductor manufacturing in India. The government’s incentives, combined with private sector interest, have encouraged a renewed momentum in the country’s semiconductor ambitions.
Final Words
India’s semiconductor journey, though filled with challenges and missed opportunities, is now entering a crucial phase of transformation. The country is laying the foundation to become a key player in the global semiconductor industry.
The key to India’s success lies in its ability to learn from past mistakes, capitalize on its strengths in design and engineering and develop a complete ecosystem that supports both manufacturing and innovation. If India can execute its vision effectively, it may not only become a key player in the global semiconductor supply chain but also pave the way for future technological advancements that will drive the next generation of innovations.
The world of connectivity is in the middle of a crucial decision over a desired piece of the radio spectrum - the 6GHz frequency band. But what exactly is 6GHz and why is it sparking a heated debate in India? This article takes you through the significance of the 6GHz band, what’s at risk for India and why the nation is facing a dilemma over how it should be allocated.
What is 6GHz?
In simple terms, the 6GHz band refers to a range of radio frequencies used to carry data for internet services. Think of it as a wide highway that helps data travel faster and more efficiently. As more people connect to the internet and demand for high-speed services grows, additional bandwidth is essential to handle the load. The 6GHz band is one such solution, offering a broader spectrum than existing bands like the 3.5GHz used by 5G networks.
The importance of the 6GHz band lies in its potential to significantly enhance internet speed, connectivity and reliability. With data traffic on the rise, having a new, wider highway for data is crucial for accommodating future technologies such as Wi-Fi 6E, which runs on the 6GHz band and offers ultra-fast internet speeds.
The Dilemma: To License or De-License?
India is currently facing a dilemma over how to allocate the 6GHz spectrum. Should the band be exclusively licensed for telecom companies or should it be de-licensed, allowing for public use without the need for exclusive rights?
The Case for Licensing
Telecom companies argue that the 6GHz band should be fully licensed, much like previous frequency bands. By doing so, telecom companies would gain exclusive rights to use the spectrum, allowing them to enhance 5G networks and prepare for future 6G technologies. For the Indian government, licensing the 6GHz band could generate significant revenue through spectrum auctions. In 2022, the government earned a massive ₹1.5 lakh crores from auctions and the 6GHz spectrum could potentially bring in even more.
Telecom companies also highlight the growing demand for high-speed internet and the need for more spectrum to handle this demand. With 5G rollout in full swing and 6G on the vision, securing sufficient bandwidth is critical to the nation's digital infrastructure.
The Case for De-Licensing
On the other hand, tech companies like Google, Meta and Amazon, represented by the Broadband India Forum (BIF) are pushing for a portion of the 6GHz band to be de-licensed. Their argument is simple: de-licensing the band would make it more accessible to the public, especially in rural areas and promote digital inclusion. Imagine a school in a remote village gaining access to faster internet due to Wi-Fi using the 6GHz band, this could be a game-changer for education.
Furthermore, estimates from the Dynamic Spectrum Alliance (DSA) suggest that fully de-licensing the 6GHz band could contribute $4 trillion to India’s economy by 2034, strengthening innovation and driving economic growth. De-licensing would also provide more opportunities for companies to innovate and roll out new products such as Wi-Fi-enabled devices, which could boost the adoption of high-speed internet across the country.
The Stakeholders in the Debate
The debate over the 6GHz band is not just between telecom companies and tech giants. Several other groups have risk factor in the decision.
Chipmakers: The semiconductor industry supports the idea of unlicensed use of the 6GHz band because it opens up new business opportunities such as expanding Wi-Fi networks and integrating Wi-Fi into more devices. For chipmakers, this means more products to develop and sell.
Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO): ISRO is another serious player in this debate. The 6GHz band is currently reserved for satellite communication and ISRO has expressed concerns about potential interference with its operations if the band is used for mobile networks. Having a balance between telecom and satellite usage is crucial to avoid disrupting essential services.
The Risks and Rewards of De-Licensing the Band
While de-licensing the 6GHz band might seem like a win for the public, it comes with its own set of challenges. One of the main risks is interference. Since the 6GHz band would be available for anyone to use, too many users could result in network congestion, slowing down internet speeds for everyone. For instance, if many users are trying to access the same frequency, data transfer could become inefficient, leading to frustrating slowdowns.
Additionally, de-licensing could strain mobile networks, especially as 5G adoption grows. Telecom companies may struggle to expand services without enough spectrum and mobile operators could face higher costs to build additional infrastructure, particularly in densely inhabited urban areas. This could lead to increased energy consumption and higher carbon emissions, making the situation even more complex.
On the other side, de-licensing the 6GHz band opens doors to innovation and accessibility. With unrestricted access, tech companies and startups can create more affordable and efficient solutions, particularly benefiting rural and underserved areas. Imagine remote schools, small businesses or healthcare facilities gaining access to high-speed internet through Wi-Fi 6E, driving digital transformation where it’s needed most.
Additionally, broader Wi-Fi adoption could reduce dependence on cellular networks, easing the load on mobile infrastructure. The potential economic gains are significant too, with studies suggesting that de-licensing could contribute trillions to India’s GDP over the next decade by developing a perfect ecosystem for digital services and applications.
The Global Perspective
India is not the only country struggling with how to use the 6GHz band. Different countries have taken different approaches:
The United States fully de-licensed the 6GHz band for Wi-Fi use, opening up the band for Wi-Fi 6E devices. This decision has been widely praised for its role in boosting innovation and internet access.
Brazil and Saudi Arabia have followed suit, de-licensing the band to promote widespread access to high-speed Wi-Fi.
China, however, has taken a different approach by fully licensing the 6GHz band for mobile services, focusing on 5G and 6G development.
India’s decision could have a far-reaching impact, not just on internet access but on the economy as a whole. Studies suggest that if the 6GHz band is used effectively, it could contribute $285 billion to the Asia-Pacific region’s GDP by 2030, with India gaining a significant share of this growth.
Having a Balance: A Mixed Approach?
The most straightforward solution may not be so clear-cut. Given the complexities of the issue, some suggest a mixed approach, part of the 6GHz band could be licensed for telecom companies, while the rest could be de-licensed for public use. This would allow the best of both worlds: enhanced 5G and 6G connectivity for telecoms, while strengthening innovation and affordability in public services, particularly in underserved rural areas.
However, a study by GSMA on the 6GHz band in India suggests that licensing the entire band might be the best route. Without sufficient spectrum, mobile operators could struggle to expand services, leading to slower 5G speeds and higher costs for consumers. Additionally, de-licensing the band could result in significant challenges, including interference, higher energy consumption and increased carbon emissions.
What’s Next for India?
As India considers its options, the government must decide soon, as the global race for 6GHz bandwidth continues. If India delays its decision, it risks falling behind other nations that are already utilizing the potential of the 6GHz band.
For now, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has suggested three options: fully licensing the band, fully de-licensing it or a hybrid approach. Whatever route India chooses, it will need to carefully balance the needs of telecom companies, tech giants and the public, ensuring that the decision benefits the nation as a whole.
Conclusion
The 6GHz frequency band is more than just a piece of radio spectrum, it represents the future of connectivity in India. Whether its helping telecom companies build faster networks or ensuring that Wi-Fi becomes more accessible in rural areas, the risks are high. While there is no easy solution, India’s decision on how to allocate the 6GHz band will shape the country’s digital landscape for years to come.
In an era where digital privacy has become a major concern worldwide, India has seen a rise in incidents where personal data, including sensitive information, is being easily accessed, misused or exposed. This issue has sparked debates about the safety of citizens private details, particularly related to vehicle registrations and driving licenses. The growing reach of mobile apps, social media platforms and Telegram bots has made it easier than ever for anyone to access a vast amount of personal data.
For Indian citizens, the reality of having their private information exposed online is no longer a distant fear. It has become a daily risk. This situation not only threatens personal privacy but also opens the door to more severe issues like identity theft, financial fraud and even social conflicts.
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The Role of Mobile Apps and Telegram Bots in Data Exposure
Mobile applications and Telegram bots are powerful tools for accessing personal data, frequently bypassing privacy safeguards. Telegram bots have been found providing alarming levels of detail about vehicle owners with just a vehicle registration number. These bots can access private information, such as an owner's name, address, engine and chassis numbers and other vehicle-related details. This easy access to private data highlights the vulnerability of citizens to potential misuse.
The Telegram bots are not the only ones tapping into this information. Numerous apps provide similar access, sharing sensitive data that can easily be used for malicious purposes, including financial fraud or targeted social and political actions.
Real-Time Proof of Vulnerability: A Telegram Bot Conversation Exposes Personal Data
A recent conversation with a Telegram bot, reveals the shocking ease with which personal data can be accessed. The bot offered to sell a massive database containing personal vehicle information such as full names, addresses and vehicle details.
In the chat, the bot confirmed that the database was 4.3TB + 1.2TB in size and updated every three months, offered for just 600 USD (approximately ₹50,000). It also offered a live database for new vehicles. The payment method? Cryptocurrency (USDT), indicating the unregulated nature of the transaction.
The bot shared the user’s full name, father’s name, address and vehicle details, exposing real time privacy risk caused by such apps. This serves as a wake-up call for stronger data protection laws to secure citizens sensitive information.
Government's Data Sharing Policies: A Double-Edged Sword
The role of the Indian government in making this data available has sparked concerns. In February 2021, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) revealed that the government had earned over Rs 100 crore by selling access to the Vahan and Sarathi databasesto private entities. These databases contain critical information such as vehicle registration details and driving licenses.
According to the Ministry, over 170 private companies, including industry giants like Axis Bank, BMW India, Mercedes Benz and L&T Financial Services, were granted access to the data. These firms were charged between Rs 3 crore per year for access to the data and Rs 5 lakh for educational institutions using it for research. The government sold this information through the Bulk Data Sharing Policy, earning significant revenue until the policy was scrapped.
However, despite the discontinuation of this policy, a new policy known as "Policy for Providing Access to Information from the National Register" was introduced, allowing third parties continued access to personal data. This access, for a nominal fee of 50INR to 100INR, raises serious questions about data security and privacy. The government has even stated that it will not demand private firms to delete the data they have already received.
The Dark Side of Easy Access: Real-Life Example
A key example of the potential dangers posed by such access to personal information was highlighted during the Delhi communal riots. It was reported that criminals used these mobile apps to identify the religion of vehicle owners, which led to targeted attacks on specific communities. This incident clearly demonstrates how the misuse of personal data can escalate social tensions and create security risks.
In addition to this, these apps also provide access to sensitive financial details, such as insurance and loan information. When combined with other personal data, this can lead to serious privacy violations and expose individuals to financial fraud or even identity theft.
The Legal Petition and the Need for Stronger Privacy Laws
In September 2024, advocate Gopal Bansal filed a petition in the Delhi High Court, challenging the privacy breaches caused by these apps. The petition raised concerns about how easily sensitive information about vehicle owners is being shared with third parties without proper safety measures. The petition also underscored the risks of such data being misused, highlighting the need for urgent legal intervention.
Bansal argued that the sharing of personal data through these platforms could lead to major privacy violations, potentially putting citizens at risk of social discrimination, identity theft and even physical harm. He called for stricter enforcement of privacy laws and demanded that the government regulate or restrict the distribution of such personal information.
The Delhi High Court heard the petition, which highlighted the ease of access to vehicle owner data by private companies and selling it, along with its associated risks. The petition underlined the need for stronger regulations to ensure that such sensitive data is not misused.
What Needs to Change: Protecting Personal Data in the Digital Age
The increasing ease of access to personal data through mobile apps, Telegram bots and government policies highlights the urgent need for stronger data protection laws in India. While the government has taken steps to address these concerns, such as discontinuing the Bulk Data Sharing Policy, the introduction of new policies that allow continued access to sensitive information has left citizens vulnerable.
To safeguard Indian citizens privacy, strong data protection laws are urgently needed, with clear guidelines on the collection, storage and use of personal data. This law should include strict penalties for entities that misuse or mishandle personal information.
Additionally, there needs to be more transparency in how government data-sharing policies work. The public must be informed about how their information is being used and by whom. Only with greater accountability and stricter enforcement of privacy laws can citizens feel secure in the digital age.
