This Week in Tech: New Visa Rules, Major Sales, and Tech Innovations

In the rapidly evolving tech landscape, significant developments are happening across the globe. This week, we delve into the latest updates from the U.S. regarding visa rules, Amazon’s biggest sale dates, and groundbreaking changes from Microsoft. Let’s break it down into key highlights.

New U.S. Visa Guidelines for Students and Exchange Visitors

The U.S. Embassy in India has implemented new visa guidelines aimed at enhancing the screening process for student and exchange visitor applicants. Effective immediately, all individuals applying for F, M, and J non-immigrant visas are required to set their social media privacy settings to public.

This move is designed to facilitate the verification of identity and eligibility for visa applicants. The embassy stated that such transparency is essential for ensuring compliance with U.S. laws during the vetting process. This change sparked discussions about privacy and the extent of scrutiny applicants may face.

Amazon India Prime Day 2025: Dates and Discounts Announced

In an exciting announcement for shoppers, Amazon India revealed the dates for its highly anticipated Prime Day 2025 sales event. Scheduled for July 12-14, the event will expand to three full days, offering exclusive discounts and deals on products from top brands like Samsung, Intel, and OnePlus.

Prime members can expect enticing savings, including an additional 10% discount on transactions using specific bank cards. This year’s expanded format marks a significant growth in Amazon’s Prime Day offerings in India, aiming to attract even more consumers eager for deals.

Microsoft Bids Goodbye to the "Blue Screen of Death"

Microsoft has officially retired the infamous "Blue Screen of Death" (BSoD) error screen after four decades. The change replaces the blue screen with a sleek black one, as part of a broader "Windows Resiliency Initiative." This new design aims to improve user experience and reduce interruptions caused by system crashes.

The black error screen introduces a more modern interface that aligns with Windows 11’s design aesthetic, simplifying error messages and eliminating the sad-face emoji and QR codes. This thoughtful redesign reflects Microsoft’s commitment to enhancing the stability and usability of its operating systems.

Nvidia Surpasses Microsoft and Apple in Market Value

In a remarkable shift in the tech landscape, Nvidia has ascended to become the world’s most valuable company, with a market valuation of $3.34 trillion. This leap was fueled by the surging demand for its AI chips, essential for training and running advanced AI models like ChatGPT.

As Nvidia’s stock skyrocketed by more than 170% this year, it has left behind tech giants Microsoft and Apple, valued at $3.32 trillion and $3.29 trillion, respectively. This significant achievement underscores Nvidia’s dominant role in the AI revolution and its unparalleled ability to capture market interest.

Google Budget Cuts: Impact on Smart TV Initiatives

Google has decided to trim the budget for its smart TV initiatives by cutting $50 million, impacting approximately a quarter of its 300-member smart TV team. This budget reduction comes as the company gears up to integrate its new Gemini AI assistant into TV platforms.

Despite the layoffs, Google remains committed to its Android TV ecosystem, boasting over 270 million active devices globally. This balance between cost-cutting and strategic innovation will be crucial as the tech giant navigates a competitive landscape.

The Emergence of New Budget Smartphones

In product launches, Samsung has introduced the Galaxy M36 5G, featuring a 50MP camera and a robust 5000 mAh battery. Designed for affordability, it targets consumers seeking quality without breaking the bank.

Similarly, Vivo’s T4 Lite 5G has hit the market, boasting a 6000 mAh battery and a competitive price range. Both smartphones highlight the intense competition in the budget smartphone segment while bringing advanced features to a wider audience.

The Shifting Landscape of Streaming with Vi’s New Plan

Telecom company Vi has rolled out the Max Family Plan, which offers a Netflix subscription along with shared internet data. Priced at Rs 871, the plan not only provides extensive data but also includes access to content from 18 additional OTT platforms.

This push highlights the growing intersection between telecom services and streaming content, catering to consumer demand for bundled packages that enhance entertainment options.

This week has delivered an array of significant tech developments, reflecting the continual changes and innovations shaping our digital landscape. From visa regulations to major product launches, the industry remains dynamic and forward-looking, driven by both consumer needs and technological advancements.