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Month: May 2025

Technology

Agentic AI Drives Shift in Enterprise Software Pricing Models

Observenow Desk May 7, 2025

The integration of agentic artificial intelligence is prompting a significant transformation in the pricing structures of Indian Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) and enterprise software companies. Traditionally reliant on per-user billing, these firms are now exploring consumption- and outcome-based models to align with the capabilities of AI-driven automation.

Monish Darda, cofounder and chief technology officer at Icertis, emphasized that the focus is transitioning from the number of users to the number of AI agents and workflows. Consequently, consumption and outcome-based pricing models are gaining traction. Shobhit Jain, managing director at Avendus Capital, observed that for many companies, 40-50% of operations have shifted from per-user models to these new pricing strategies.

In response to the growing demand for generative AI (GenAI) services, some firms are implementing premium pricing. Venk Krishnan, CEO of NuWare and managing partner at NuVentures, mentioned that their AI services now command a 20-25% premium. He explained that the increased costs are due to the need for domain experts in AI and large language models. However, Krishnan cautioned that as technology evolves rapidly, customer expectations may shift, potentially affecting the sustainability of such premiums.

UiPath, a company specializing in robotic process automation, has introduced an “AI unit” pricing model. Under this system, customers are charged based on the number of LLM model calls they make, with options to purchase bundled units, such as a million AI units. Despite the advantages of consumption-based pricing, some enterprises express concerns over budget predictability. Darda noted that while per-user pricing offers clarity, consumption-based models can introduce uncertainty. To address this, Icertis offers bundled services, providing a set number of API calls with provisions to adjust in subsequent periods if usage exceeds the initial allocation.

Krish Subramanian, co-founder and CEO of ChargeBee, acknowledged the challenges associated with consumption-based pricing. He emphasized the importance of balancing flexibility with predictability to meet diverse customer needs.

As agentic AI continues to reshape enterprise operations, companies are navigating the complexities of evolving pricing models to accommodate technological advancements while addressing client expectations.

Tags: artificial intelligenceGenAI

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Technology

FinX Acquires BSE Institute to Expand AI and Tech Training Offerings

Observenow Desk May 6, 2025

Mumbai-based skilling platform FinX has acquired the BSE Institute, the educational arm of the Bombay Stock Exchange, in an all-cash deal valued at ₹16.9 crore. This acquisition aims to bolster FinX’s capabilities in delivering training programs in emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, data science, cybersecurity, and information technology.

Established in 2019, FinX specializes in providing certification courses and workshops designed to upskill students for careers in the banking, financial services, and insurance (BFSI) sector. The company collaborates with over 400 colleges and universities across India and claims to have trained more than 40,000 students to date.

With the acquisition of the BSE Institute, FinX plans to leverage the institute’s physical infrastructure in Mumbai, Delhi, and Kolkata to enhance its training delivery. This move is expected to expand FinX’s client relationships, training infrastructure, and product portfolio, enabling the company to offer a comprehensive suite of programs that address the evolving needs of both the financial services and technology sectors. This acquisition follows FinX’s previous purchase of the Centre for Investment Education and Learning (CIEL) in 2019, which has been offering corporate training in the BFSI space for over 17 years. These strategic moves underscore FinX’s dedication to expanding its reach and impact in the skilling and training landscape of India.

The acquisition aligns with FinX’s broader strategy to bridge the gap between formal education and industry-specific skills, particularly within the BFSI and IT sectors. By integrating the resources and expertise of the BSE Institute, FinX aims to enhance its offerings and better prepare students for the demands of the modern workforce.

Tags: BSE InstituteFinXIT sector

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Microsoft Retires Skype After Two Decades, Urges Users to Transition to Teams

Observenow Desk

Microsoft has officially retired Skype as of May 5, 2025, concluding the platform’s 22-year tenure as a pioneer in internet-based communication. The company is directing users to transition to Microsoft Teams, its primary communication and collaboration platform.

In a statement, Microsoft assured users that all existing Skype chats and contacts will remain accessible through Teams using the same login credentials. This move is part of Microsoft’s broader strategy to streamline its communication offerings and focus on Teams, which has seen significant growth in recent years. “In order to streamline our free consumer communications offerings so we can more easily adapt to customer needs, we will be retiring Skype in May 2025 to focus on Microsoft Teams (free), our modern communications and collaboration hub,” the company stated.

New purchases of Skype Credit and plans have already been discontinued. Existing subscribers can continue using their services until the end of their billing cycles. Skype Numbers will remain active until their expiry and can be ported to other carriers. Even after the shutdown, users can receive calls on Skype Numbers through the Skype web portal or Teams, with calls triggering push notifications in Teams.

Launched in 2003, Skype revolutionized internet-based voice and video calling, becoming widely used across the globe. Microsoft acquired Skype in 2011 for $8.5 billion, aiming to enhance its communication services. However, with the rise of competitors like Zoom, WhatsApp, and Slack, Skype’s popularity declined, leading Microsoft to shift its focus to Teams.

Teams has become Microsoft’s flagship communication platform, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, offering integrated features for chat, voice, and video calls, as well as collaboration tools. By consolidating its communication services under Teams, Microsoft aims to provide a more cohesive and modern user experience.

The retirement of Skype marks the end of an era for one of the most recognizable video-calling platforms from the early internet era. Microsoft’s decision reflects the evolving landscape of digital communication and the company’s commitment to adapting to customer needs with more integrated solutions.

Tags: MicrosoftSkype

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B2B Marketeer

Infobip and MoneyGram Haas F1 Team Forge Multi-Year Partnership to Enhance Fan Engagement

Observenow Desk

Global cloud communications company Infobip has entered into a multi-year partnership with the MoneyGram Haas F1 Team, aiming to revolutionize fan engagement through advanced digital communication channels. This collaboration seeks to bring fans closer to the action by leveraging Infobip’s expertise in messaging technologies.

The partnership will utilize platforms such as Rich Communication Services, WhatsApp, and in-app messaging, integrated with agentic artificial intelligence, to create interactive and personalized experiences for fans. These technologies are designed to provide real-time updates, facilitate direct interactions, and offer exclusive content, thereby enhancing the overall fan journey.

Infobip’s messaging channels have seen increasing popularity globally, with significant growth in regions like North America and the UK. The company’s solutions are well-suited to deliver engaging experiences across various touchpoints, from marketing initiatives to customer support. By implementing these tools, the MoneyGram Haas F1 Team aims to deepen its connection with fans, fostering loyalty both on and off the track. The collaboration was officially launched during the Miami Grand Prix, held from May 2 to 4, 2025, at the Miami International Autodrome. This event marked the beginning of the partnership’s efforts to redefine fan experiences in the world of Formula 1.

Infobip, recognized as Croatia’s first unicorn company, reported revenues exceeding €1.8 billion in 2024. The company provides communication tools to major global enterprises, including Google and Uber, enabling them to engage customers through various channels like WhatsApp, RCS, and Apple Messages for Business. Additionally, Infobip has a strong presence in the automotive sector, assisting manufacturers such as Toyota, Nissan, and Mahindra in enhancing customer experiences using AI-driven solutions.

The MoneyGram Haas F1 Team, based in Kannapolis, North Carolina, is currently competing in its tenth season in the FIA Formula 1 World Championship. As the only American team in the series, Haas F1 has established itself as a competitive force, with operations extending to Banbury, England, and Maranello, Italy. The team’s technical partnerships with Scuderia Ferrari and Toyota GAZOO Racing underscore its commitment to excellence in motorsport.

This strategic alliance between Infobip and the MoneyGram Haas F1 Team represents a significant step toward integrating advanced communication technologies into the realm of sports entertainment. By focusing on delivering enriched, real-time interactions, the partnership aims to set new standards in fan engagement within Formula 1.

Tags: InfobipMoneyGram Haas F1 Team

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Technology

Salesforce Deepens Commitment to India’s Entrepreneurial Ecosystem

Observenow Desk

Salesforce, a global leader in customer relationship management, is intensifying its focus on India, recognizing the country’s dynamic entrepreneurial spirit and technological prowess. Sanket Atal, Managing Director and Senior Vice President of Salesforce India, emphasized the company’s strategic investments aimed at harnessing India’s innovative potential.

Under Atal’s leadership, Salesforce has expanded its operations across key Indian cities, including Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Mumbai, and Delhi. These hubs serve as centers for innovation, talent development, and customer engagement, reinforcing India’s pivotal role in Salesforce’s global strategy.

A cornerstone of Salesforce’s commitment is its emphasis on skill development. Through initiatives like Trailhead, the company offers accessible learning platforms to equip individuals with in-demand digital skills. “Empowering the workforce with relevant skills is essential,” Atal noted. “Our programs are designed to bridge the talent gap and foster inclusive growth.”

Salesforce’s collaboration with Indian enterprises spans various sectors, from startups to large conglomerates. By providing tailored CRM solutions, the company enables businesses to enhance customer experiences and drive operational efficiency. In addition to business endeavors, Salesforce is actively involved in community development. The company supports numerous philanthropic initiatives focused on education, equality, and environmental sustainability. “Corporate responsibility is integral to our ethos,” Atal emphasized. “We’re committed to making a positive impact beyond business metrics.”

Looking ahead, Salesforce plans to further integrate advanced technologies like artificial intelligence and machine learning into its offerings in India. This move aims to equip Indian businesses with cutting-edge tools to navigate the evolving digital landscape.

“India is not just a market; it’s a hub of innovation and talent,” Atal concluded. “Our journey here is a testament to the country’s potential, and we’re excited to continue building a future of shared success.”

Salesforce’s deepening engagement with India underscores the nation’s growing significance in the global tech arena. As the company aligns its strategies with India’s digital aspirations, it exemplifies a collaborative approach to fostering innovation and inclusive growth.

Tags: artificial intelligenceSalesforceSanket Atal

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TCS and IBM Collaborate with Andhra Pradesh to Launch India’s Largest Quantum Computing Center

Observenow Desk

In a significant move to fortify India’s position in the global quantum computing landscape, The Government of Andhra Pradesh has teamed up with IBM and Tata Consultancy Services to build the biggest quantum computing facility in the country. The plant will be located in the state capital of Amaravati, inside the soon-to-be Quantum Valley Tech Park.

Central to this initiative is the deployment of IBM’s Quantum System Two, featuring a 156-qubit Heron processor. Upon completion, this system will represent the most powerful quantum computer in India, marking a substantial advancement in the country’s computational capabilities.

The collaboration aims to create a comprehensive quantum ecosystem that encompasses infrastructure development, research support, and industry partnerships. By integrating IBM’s cutting-edge quantum technology with TCS’s expertise in algorithm and application development, the center is poised to address complex challenges across various sectors, including finance, healthcare, and logistics.

Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu emphasized the strategic importance of this project, stating, “India’s National Quantum Mission envisions the country as a global center for quantum innovation and economic growth. The Quantum Valley Tech Park, backed by industry leaders such as IBM and TCS, represents a significant step toward realizing this vision.”

The Quantum Valley Tech Park is christened as a hub for innovation, attracting researchers, developers, and technologists from across the country. By providing access to IBM‘s cloud-based quantum computing systems, the center will facilitate hands-on experience and experimentation, fostering a new generation of quantum professionals. This initiative aligns with India’s broader goals under the National Quantum Mission, which seeks to position the country as a leader in quantum science and technology. By investing in state-of-the-art infrastructure and fostering industry-academic collaborations, India aims to accelerate the development and deployment of quantum solutions that can drive economic growth and address pressing societal challenges.

The establishment of the quantum computing center in Amaravati is anticipated to have far-reaching impacts, not only enhancing India’s technological capabilities but also contributing to the global quantum research community. As the project progresses, it is expected to serve as a model for similar initiatives worldwide, demonstrating the power of collaborative innovation in advancing frontier technologies.

Tags: Government of Andhra PradeshIBMQuantum Computing CenterTata Consultancy Services

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BFSI

F5 Projects Strong Q3 Revenue Amid Rising Demand for Cloud Security Solutions

Observenow Desk

F5 Inc. has projected third-quarter revenue between $740 million and $760 million, surpassing Wall Street’s expectations of $739 million. This optimistic forecast reflects the increasing demand for the company’s cloud services, particularly as enterprises seek robust security solutions in the face of heightened cybersecurity risks associated with accelerated cloud migrations.

In the second quarter ending March 31, F5 reported revenue of $731 million, exceeding analysts’ estimates of $718.9 million. The company’s systems revenue reached $179 million, marking a 27% increase from the same period last year. CEO François Locoh-Donou highlighted F5’s role in addressing the complexities and cyber threats in today’s AI-driven, hybrid multicloud environments.

For the full fiscal year 2025, F5 has raised its revenue growth forecast to a range of 6.5% to 7.5%, up from the previous outlook of 6% to 7%. The company also anticipates third-quarter earnings per share, excluding items, to be between $3.41 and $3.53, compared to analysts’ estimate of $3.54.

Following the announcement, F5’s shares experienced a 1.8% increase in extended trading, reflecting investor confidence in the company’s strategic direction and market position.

Tags: cybersecurityF5

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Technology

Nvidia Set to Rebound as Tech Giants Drive AI Infrastructure Investments

Observenow Desk

Nvidia appears to be on track for renewed growth in 2025 as major tech players pour billions into artificial intelligence development. After some early-year uncertainty, the chipmaker is gaining renewed attention from investors amid a broader surge in AI infrastructure spending by industry titans such as Meta, Amazon, and Alphabet.

Meta Platforms, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, has revised its capital expenditure projections significantly higher for this year, estimating a spend between $64 billion and $72 billion. The majority of that budget is aimed at expanding AI capabilities. CEO Mark Zuckerberg has emphasized Meta’s commitment to AI advancement, from improving advertising systems to building innovative AI tools for messaging and hardware. The sharp increase in investment could translate into rising demand for Nvidia’s high-performance chips that are central to training and running AI models.

Amazon, through its AWS cloud division, is also stepping up its AI game. In the last quarter of 2024 alone, the company spent over $26 billion on capital projects, much of it going toward AI infrastructure. According to CFO Brian Olsavsky, that level of expenditure will remain consistent through 2025 as the company doubles down on generative AI, large-scale models, and cloud-based machine learning services. Nvidia, a primary supplier of GPUs used in these technologies, is positioned to benefit directly from this spending trend.

Alphabet, Google’s parent company, isn’t far behind. The company announced plans to allocate $75 billion in capital expenditures this year—a jump of over 40% compared to last year. A significant portion of that will go toward expanding data center capacity and boosting AI research and deployment. Nvidia’s ongoing partnership with Google Cloud and its involvement in AI model training give it a foothold in reaping the rewards of Alphabet’s aggressive investment strategy.

Across the board, tech companies are aligning their budgets to prioritize artificial intelligence in a race to lead the next era of computing. Analysts suggest this wave of capital investment could exceed $200 billion collectively among the top players. That level of spending creates a favorable environment for Nvidia, especially as demand grows for its flagship AI chips such as the H100 and the next-generation Blackwell series.

While competition in the AI chip space is intensifying, Nvidia remains a central figure in the ecosystem thanks to its long-standing industry relationships and reputation for high-performance computing. As firms adopt increasingly diversified sourcing strategies for hardware, Nvidia’s deep integration into AI research and deployment workflows gives it a competitive edge.

If the current pace of investment continues, 2025 could mark a strong rebound year for Nvidia, driven by an AI boom that shows no signs of slowing down.

Tags: Google CloudNVIDIA

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Tenable Appoints Former Google Cloud VP Eric Doerr as Chief Product Officer

Observenow Desk

Leading cybersecurity firm, Tenable has announced the appointment of Eric Doerr, former Vice President of Security Products at Google Cloud, as its new Chief Product Officer. This strategic move aims to strengthen Tenable’s product leadership as the company prepares to expand its exposure management offerings.

In his new role, Doerr will be in charge of Tenable’s global product organization, focusing on strategy, innovation, and execution across the company’s cybersecurity portfolio. His appointment comes as Tenable plans to introduce an extended version of the Tenable One platform, designed to enhance exposure management capabilities.

Steve Vintz, Co-CEO of Tenable, expressed confidence in Doerr’s expertise, stating, “Tenable has a clear and compelling vision for the future of cybersecurity—one that unifies visibility, prioritization, and remediation across the modern attack surface. Eric’s profound expertise in cloud-native security, threat intelligence, and large-scale product innovation makes him the ideal leader to push forward our exposure management vision and amplify our impact across enterprises.”

Doerr brings nearly three decades of experience in developing and scaling security products. Prior to his tenure at Google, he spent over 20 years at Microsoft, holding senior roles in security and identity management, including General Manager of Microsoft Account and Corporate Vice President of Cloud Security. As Doerr assumes his new position, outgoing CPO Shai Morag will assist during the transition period to ensure continuity in leadership and innovation.

Doerr’s appointment is expected to bolster Tenable’s efforts in enhancing cybersecurity solutions, particularly in the retail sector, where robust security frameworks and advanced threat mitigation strategies are increasingly critical.

Tags: cybersecurityEric DoerrGoogle CloudTenable

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Exclusive

Google Cloud’s AI Enhances Formula E’s Mountain Recharge Strategy

Observenow Desk

In a significant advancement for electric vehicle racing, Google Cloud’s artificial intelligence technology has been instrumental in optimizing Formula E’s mountain recharge strategies. This collaboration marks a pivotal moment in integrating AI-driven solutions within the high-stakes environment of competitive racing.

Formula E, known for its commitment to sustainability and innovation, faced challenges in managing energy consumption during races, especially in mountainous terrains where elevation changes can drastically affect battery performance. To address this, the organization partnered with Google Cloud to leverage its AI capabilities for real-time data analysis and decision-making support.

The AI system developed by Google Cloud processes vast amounts of data, including track conditions, elevation profiles, and vehicle performance metrics. By analyzing this information, the system provides teams with actionable insights on optimal energy management strategies, such as when to conserve power and the best moments to initiate regenerative braking. One of the standout features of this AI integration is its ability to adapt to changing race conditions. As weather patterns shift or unexpected events occur on the track, the AI recalibrates its recommendations, ensuring that teams can make informed decisions on the fly. This dynamic approach has proven invaluable in maintaining competitive performance while adhering to energy constraints.

The implementation of AI has not only enhanced race strategy but also contributed to the broader goals of Formula E. By optimizing energy usage, the sport reinforces its commitment to sustainability and showcases the potential of electric vehicles in demanding scenarios. Moreover, the success of this collaboration serves as a blueprint for other industries seeking to integrate AI for operational efficiency.

Google Cloud’s involvement in Formula E underscores its broader vision of applying AI to solve complex, real-world problems. The company’s expertise in data analytics and machine learning positions it as a valuable partner for organizations aiming to harness the power of AI for strategic advantage.

As the partnership between Google Cloud and Formula E continues to evolve, there is anticipation for further innovations that will push the boundaries of what’s possible in electric vehicle racing. The integration of AI into race strategy not only elevates the sport’s competitive edge but also highlights the transformative potential of technology in promoting sustainable practices.

In conclusion, the collaboration between Google Cloud and Formula E exemplifies the impactful convergence of technology and sports. Through the strategic application of AI, Formula E has enhanced its race strategies, reaffirmed its commitment to sustainability, and set a precedent for the future of electric vehicle racing.

Tags: artificial intelligenceelectric vehicleGoogle Cloud

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