news and current affairs.
Minimal Audio Evoke bypasses vocoder chaos for $79
Minimal Audio released Evoke on Friday, a vocal production plug-in that transforms and harmonizes tracks through a resynthesis engine based on vocal modeling and spectral processing. The software generates new sounds from input signals without filter banks or envelope followers, and it requires no manual routing beyond track insertion. Users can retune vocals and create multi-voice harmonies while applying modulation tools from the company's Current and Rift products to control parameters through sequencers, envelope followers, and LFOs. The plug-in features eight onboard effects such as multiband compression, frequency shifting, reverb, and distortion. Evoke ships with 350 presets designed for electronic music, R&B, and pop...
Thambi Ramaiah writes for his son as Natty takes the lead
Director Umapathy Ramaiah started production on his next film with a traditional ceremony on Friday, after the success of Raja Kili. The untitled project serves as Production Number 6 for Kannan Ravi Groups and Gantaraa Studios. The political satire features Natty Subramaniam in the lead role with a cast that features Thambi Ramaiah, Shrrita Rao, and M.S. Bhaskar. Producer Kannan Ravi stated the script reflects contemporary situations through humor and entertainment. Subramaniam agreed to the project after hearing only minutes of the narration. The collaboration marks the first time Subramaniam and Thambi Ramaiah have worked together on screen. Thambi Ramaiah wrote the story and dialogues for the film that his son directs. P. G...
Jurel, Jadeja crush West Indies as India pile on misery
India extended their advantage to 164 runs at tea on day two of the first Test against West Indies at Narendra Modi Stadium on Friday. Dhruv Jurel and Ravindra Jadeja remained unbeaten on 68 and 50 runs respectively as India reached 326 for four wickets in 96 overs. Their unbroken 108-run partnership placed the hosts in a commanding position after the second session. Jomel Warrican dismissed centurion KL Rahul for exactly 100 runs in the first over after lunch. Rahul fell caught at cover while attempting a loose drive. Jurel responded by striking boundaries through the off side, and Jadeja hit four sixes off Warrican by advancing down the pitch to neutralize the spinner. Jurel displayed composure against reverse swing and spin after...
TRAI forces radio broadcasters into digital simulcast mode
The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India issued digital radio broadcast policy recommendations for private operators on Friday. The guidelines establish terms and reserve prices for services in 13 major cities across four categories. New broadcasters must adopt a digital format, but existing FM stations can migrate voluntarily under the simulcast system. Each frequency will carry one analog channel, three digital channels, and one data channel under the new framework. Operators must begin simulcast operations within two years of auction completion or migration approval. The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting requested recommendations under the TRAI Act of 1997 after releasing a consultation paper in September 2024...
Sanya Malhotra thrilled as Kathal bags National Award
Actress Sanya Malhotra celebrated her film Kathal after it won the Best Hindi Film honor at the 71st National Film Awards. The comedy mystery follows the investigation of missing jackfruits from a politician's garden and received critical praise for its storytelling. Producer Ekta Kapoor accepted the award for the Netflix release that debuted in May 2023. Malhotra described the project as a labor of love and expressed gratitude for the overwhelming response. The film blends humor with social commentary through its peculiar premise. Director Yashowardhan Mishra helmed the production under Balaji Motion Pictures. Shah Rukh Khan and Vikrant Massey shared the Best Actor award at the ceremony. Khan received recognition for Jawan and Massey...
Zanu-PF conference to prioritize power fights over poverty
Political analysts warn that Zanu-PF's annual conference scheduled for Mutare this month will prioritize factional disputes over Zimbabwe's economic problems. Mining companies near Mutare must pay a mandatory $3,000 fee to fund the event despite operating in a struggling economy. The conference occurs as internal party divisions intensify through heated Politburo sessions and leadership changes focused on succession battles. Analyst Reuben Mbofana stated the gathering will consolidate power among ruling elites rather than address unemployment and corruption. Stephen Chan described the event as a power contest disconnected from citizens' needs. President Emmerson Mnangagwa removed Obert Mpofu as secretary-general and appointed Jacob...
NHAI installs QR code signboards on highways
The National Highways Authority of India announced on Friday that it will install QR code signboards along national highway stretches to improve commuter convenience. The vertical boards will display project details, including highway numbers, construction periods, and contact information for emergency services. Users can scan the codes to access data about nearby hospitals, petrol stations, restrooms, police stations, and toll plazas. The authority plans to place the boards near rest areas, toll plazas, and highway entry points for maximum visibility. Officials stated the initiative will enhance road safety through better access to emergency information. The agency expects to generate Rs 35,000-40,000 crore in fiscal year 2026 if road...
Teen Arelle Middleton shatters Yao Juan's grip on gold
Arelle Middleton of the United States defeated Chinese veteran Yao Juan to capture the women's shot put F64 gold medal at the 2025 World Para Athletics Championships on Friday. The 17-year-old American posted a winning throw of 12.95 meters on her fourth attempt, and she followed with another effort exceeding 12.93 meters to secure victory. Yao responded with a final throw of 12.52 meters after fouling twice, but the distance left her short of the gold. The victory moved the United States into seventh place on the medal table with four gold, six silver, and six bronze medals, while India dropped to eighth with four gold, five silver, and two bronze. Simran advanced to the women's 100-meter T12 final after posting a personal best of...
Parineeti Chopra grills Raghav Chadha on broken promises
Actress Parineeti Chopra posted a video on Instagram that featured playful banter with her husband, Raghav Chadha, as she interviewed him for what she called a fake talk show. She teased Chadha about romantic promises made before marriage, and he responded with jokes about politicians. The couple laughed about household tasks, and Chopra questioned when he last made tea for them. Chopra asked followers whether she should continue the series, and she directed viewers to watch the full video on her YouTube channel. The actress jokingly declared herself the more romantic partner in their relationship. Chadha replied with humor about counting mango seeds when she questioned his domestic contributions. The couple announced on Aug. 25 that...
Top