VISTARA, a joint venture of Tata Group and Singapore Airlines, has become the first Indian airline to offer in-flight wi-fi internet connectivity to its passengers.
The airline started the service from Friday, September 18, on its Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft between Delhi and London Heathrow.
The wi-fi service, which Vistara plans to also launch on its Airbus A321neo aircraft soon, is free of charge initially, for a limited period.
Passengers can access the internet on all wi-fi enabled mobile phones, tablets and laptops, courtesy of the in-flight wireless connectivity by Panasonic Avionics.
The airline, brought to you by Tata and Singapore Airlines, will operate non-stop flights between Delhi and London till October 24, the company said.
The flights were launched on August 28 as part of the bilateral ‘transport bubble’ formed between India and the UK.
During the period, Vistara will fly three times a week between the two cities - on Monday, Wednesday and Friday.
“We are delighted to offer on-board wi-fi internet connectivity which takes our on-board travel experience to truly global standards. We are also glad to be the first Indian carrier to be able to offer this service to our customers," said Vinod Kannan, Vistara's chief commercial officer.
"We truly hope our customers enjoy this new addition as we continuously strive to surpass their expectations."
According to Vistara, the new In-Flight Entertainment (IFE) system allows customers to access a library of nearly 700 hours of movies, TV shows and audio compilations and games.
The airline has introduced a food and beverage service in line with the latest health and safety norms. Aircraft interiors will be deep-cleaned after every flight using approved cleaning agents, said the company.
Vistara CEO Leslie Thng said the company will increase the number of daily flights to 100 from 80 by the end of this month.
Prior to the coronavirus pandemic Vistara was operating more than 200 flights to 34 destinations every day.
Vistara commenced its commercial operations on January 9, 2015. It has a fleet of 40 aircraft, including 31 Airbus A320, one Airbus A321neo, six Boeing 737-800NG, and two Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft, and has flown more than 20 million customers since starting operations.
A female entrepreneur has said she felt “absolutely humiliated” after being denied entry to London Tech Week because she was accompanied by her 18-month-old daughter.
Davina Schonle, founder and chief executive of AI start-up Humanvantage AI, had travelled from her home to attend the event at Olympia on Monday, 10 June. She said she had made a three-hour journey to London with her daughter, Isabella, only to be turned away on arrival because children were not allowed into the venue.
The incident occurred on the same day Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer addressed the audience at London Tech Week, an annual event expected to attract over 45,000 delegates from around the world.
“Absolutely humiliated” by exclusion
Ms Schonle, 40, shared her experience in a widely circulated post on LinkedIn, where she expressed her disappointment and frustration.
“I hate that I’m having to write this,” she said. “Today I was refused entry at London Tech Week… because I had my baby with me. It’s a three-hour drive one way for me to come to London. At this stage, I limit how many hours I am away from my baby girl.”
She added that the trip was as much about exposing her daughter to new environments as it was about attending meetings and networking for her business.
“I should be able to build my company with her by my side,” she wrote. “This moment was more than inconvenient. It was a clear reminder that, as a tech industry, we still have work to do when it comes to inclusion beyond buzzwords.
Calls for greater inclusivity in tech
Schonle, who is developing a conversational AI platform for corporate training through her company Humanvantage AI, had reportedly scheduled three meetings with potential suppliers at the event. She said the incident highlighted broader issues around inclusivity in the tech sector.
“Parents are part of this ecosystem. Caregivers are innovators, founders, investors, and leaders,” she wrote. “If major events like London Tech Week can’t make space for us, what message does that send about who belongs in tech?”
She stopped short of calling for all industry events to become family-friendly but questioned whether a more inclusive approach would be more reflective of the future. “Doesn’t our future belong to the kids?” she added.
Speaking to The Times, she said she was left feeling “angry” and “humiliated” by the experience.
Support from peers in the industry
Ms Schonle’s LinkedIn post received widespread support from within the tech and business communities. Rebecca Taylor, an expert in cyber threats and human intelligence who delivered a TED talk in 2023, replied: “The juggle is real… If you’re doing your best to make life happen and be part of the conversation, other individuals and communities should be empowering you to do that.”
Janthea Brigden, ambassador for Children at Events, described the situation as “humiliating” and said it made her feel like a “non-person”.
The incident comes amid ongoing discussions around gender equality and representation in tech. According to a recent Tech Nation report, women make up only 26 per cent of the UK’s tech workforce. That figure is even lower in technical roles.
Event organiser responds
In response to the backlash, organisers of London Tech Week issued a statement acknowledging the incident.
“We’re aware that one of our attendees wasn’t allowed to enter with their child yesterday,” a spokesperson said. “As a business event, the environment hasn’t been designed to incorporate the particular needs, facilities and safeguards that under-16s require.
The incident occurred on the same day Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer addressed the audience at London Tech WeekGetty Images
“We want everyone in the tech community to feel welcome at London Tech Week. We’ve reached out directly to the person involved to discuss what happened and use this experience to inform how we approach this at LTW in the future.”
The statement did not confirm whether the policy would be reviewed ahead of future events.
Focus on diversity and inclusion
The incident has highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by women and caregivers in tech. While many conferences and corporate events have begun to introduce parent-friendly policies, others have maintained restrictions due to insurance, health and safety, or logistical concerns.
Ms Schonle’s experience has sparked renewed conversation about how events can support greater accessibility without compromising core operations. Her comments also underline the gap between diversity targets and the real-life barriers still faced by many working mothers in tech.
As London Tech Week continues throughout the week, the discussion around inclusivity and parenthood is likely to remain in the spotlight. Whether changes will be implemented in future editions of the event remains to be seen.
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The move marks the first commercial spin-off from the Smartless podcast
The hosts of the popular Smartless podcast, actors Will Arnett, Jason Bateman and Sean Hayes, have launched a new mobile phone service in the United States. Called Smartless Mobile, the service offers a budget-friendly alternative to traditional phone plans and is aimed at users who spend most of their time connected to WiFi.
The move marks the first commercial spin-off from the Smartless podcast, which is known for its celebrity interviews and humorous tone. The new venture was announced in early June 2025 and has already begun accepting sign-ups across the US mainland and Puerto Rico.
What is Smartless Mobile
Smartless Mobile is a digital-only mobile phone provider that offers plans ranging from 15 to 30 US dollars per month. Unlike many traditional mobile plans that offer unlimited data, Smartless Mobile offers what it calls “data sane” packages. These are tailored to the habits of users who rely heavily on WiFi and do not require large mobile data allowances.
The company promises that its pricing is locked for life, meaning customers will not see price hikes once they subscribe. The service uses the existing 5G network operated by T Mobile in the US and functions through eSIM technology, allowing users to activate service without needing a physical SIM card.
Customers bring their own phones and transfer their existing number by scanning a QR code in the Smartless Mobile app. There are no retail stores or contracts, and the service is managed entirely through the app.
Who is behind it
In addition to the three podcast hosts, Smartless Mobile is being led by Paul McAleese, a veteran in the telecommunications industry, who serves as the company’s chief executive officer. His wife, Jeni McAleese, is the chief brand officer. The venture is backed by Thomvest Asset Management, a Canadian investment firm with interests in the tech and communications sector.
- YouTubeYouTube/ Jimmy Kimmel Live
The founders say their aim is to simplify mobile service, eliminate hidden fees and avoid confusing contracts, something they believe resonates with everyday users who are frustrated with large telecom providers.
Celebrity phones: Trend or gimmick
Smartless Mobile is not the first example of a celebrity entering the telecom space. Actor Ryan Reynolds previously co-founded Mint Mobile, a low-cost phone provider, which was later acquired by T Mobile in a deal worth more than one billion US dollars.
While Mint Mobile has been praised for its affordability and marketing, some critics have questioned the motives behind similar ventures. Commentators have suggested that celebrities moving into utilities, such as phone services, may be more about branding and less about actual service improvements.
However, the Smartless team has leaned into their comedic brand. Promotional materials for the launch include tongue-in-cheek videos in black and white, poking fun at the complexity of other mobile providers while promoting Smartless Mobile as a simple and honest option.
Is it a good deal
Smartless Mobile may appeal to users looking to save money on mobile plans, especially those who already use WiFi most of the time and do not need unlimited data. The app-based service model also allows for a modern, streamlined experience that avoids store visits and paperwork.
That said, critics have raised questions about whether the limited data plans would meet the needs of average users. Others have expressed scepticism about whether the celebrity founders themselves use the service they are promoting.
Still, the company has been transparent about its infrastructure, openly acknowledging its use of T Mobile’s network. This sets it apart from some other mobile virtual networks, which often do not disclose their partnerships.
A new player in the market
Smartless Mobile has officially launched and is open for sign-ups across the US. With a growing number of users seeking affordable and flexible phone plans, the service could carve out a niche, especially among fans of the podcast and cost-conscious consumers.
Whether it becomes a long-term success or joins the list of short-lived celebrity ventures remains to be seen. For now, Smartless Mobile represents an unusual crossover between entertainment and telecoms, offering a product that blends humour, simplicity and low-cost access.
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Bestway began its anniversary year in January with its annual ‘Thank You’ campaign, offering deals on products in-store and online.
BESTWAY Wholesale is marking its 50th anniversary in 2025. Founded in 1975, the company opened its first warehouse in Acton, West London, and has since grown into one of the UK’s largest independent wholesalers.
The business was started by Sir Anwar Pervez. He was awarded a knighthood in 1999 for his contributions to the food wholesale sector. Under his leadership, Bestway achieved £12 million in turnover within its first 18 months, launched the best-one symbol group in 2002, acquired Batley’s in 2005, Costcutter Supermarkets Group in 2020, and Adams Foodservice in 2024.
Managing Director Dawood Pervez said: “It’s incredible to reflect on how far we’ve come – from modest beginnings to becoming one of the UK’s leading wholesalers. This milestone – celebrating half a century in business – is a testament to the hard work, integrity, and entrepreneurial spirit that runs through the business.
“My father’s vision was simple but powerful: to offer greater value through lower prices and better availability – a mission that remains at the core of everything we do today.
“He created a business that is an engine for social mobility and an opportunity for migrant communities seeking to build a life in the UK – offering them purpose, a path to prosperity, and the chance to add lasting value to British society.”
The business was started by Sir Anwar Pervez.getty images
Pervez added: “Thanks to the vision of my father and his family partners, the business rapidly grew through both organic development and strategic acquisitions. Today, we are proud to be the 7th largest family-owned business in the UK and the 13th largest privately owned company.”
Bestway began its anniversary year in January with its annual ‘Thank You’ campaign, offering deals on products in-store and online. It includes 50 weekly trade campaigns with offers, discounts, competitions and promotions. These will conclude in December with a Christmas-themed promotion featuring 50 one-day festive deals.
A celebration event is scheduled for July at the Royal Albert Hall, hosted by Sir Anwar Pervez and Lord Choudrey. Supplier partners supporting the campaign include Coca-Cola Euro Pacific, Cadbury’s, Red Bull, Carlsberg, Heineken, Mars Wrigley, Walkers, Budweiser Brewing Group, and others.
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Arora’s plan could involve a shorter runway, potentially avoiding the need to divert the M25 motorway and significantly reducing costs and time. (Photo: LinkedIn/Surinder Arora)
BILLIONAIRE hotel entrepreneur Surinder Arora has announced plans for a cheaper alternative to Heathrow Airport’s third runway, claiming he can deliver it for a third less than the airport’s own estimate.
Arora, one of Heathrow’s largest landowners, is partnering with US engineering company Bechtel to submit a proposal after aviation minister Mike Kane said the Government was open to alternative bids.
“The Government has asked for submissions this summer and we will be there,” Arora told The Telegraph. He said, “We can deliver the whole thing, and without a shadow of a doubt, we’d build it cheaper than Heathrow Airport Limited.”
Heathrow’s official proposal, based on the 2018 Airports National Policy Statement (ANPS), would include a full-length 3,500m runway, with costs reported to have increased from £14 billion to between £42bn and £63bn.
Arora’s plan could involve a shorter runway, potentially avoiding the need to divert the M25 motorway and significantly reducing costs and time.
Airline executives have voiced concerns about the full-scale plan. A UK airline boss said the cost could raise ticket prices by £75 to £100.
Sir Tim Clark of Emirates supported the idea of a shorter runway and said he was against diverting the M25.
Heathrow Reimagined, a campaign including British Airways and Virgin Atlantic, welcomed competition and alternative proposals.
The Department for Transport confirmed that no live planning application exists but stated it remains open-minded and will assess any new plans fairly.
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This event has also raised concerns about the reliability of AI tools like Grok
Elon Musk was forced to step in on Sunday after his artificial intelligence chatbot, Grok, falsely claimed he had “taken” the wife of former Trump adviser Stephen Miller. The misleading statement came after a doctored screenshot circulated on X, formerly Twitter, appearing to show a personal exchange between Musk and Miller.
The fabricated post, supposedly from Miller, read: “We will take back America,” to which Musk allegedly replied, “Just like I took your wife.” The image was shared by a user on X, prompting them to ask Grok whether the exchange was real.
Grok misidentifies fake content
In response, Grok stated the post likely did exist but was deleted. It explained, “The engagement metrics and context align with Musk’s behaviour, but its deletion means direct verification is unavailable.” The chatbot concluded that while a fabricated screenshot was possible, “the evidence leans toward the post being real but removed, consistent with Musk’s pattern of deleting controversial posts.”
— (@)
Musk quickly responded to the thread to clarify the situation. “No, it’s fake ffs. I never posted this,” he wrote, dismissing Grok’s assessment.
Background on Katie Miller and DOGE
Katie Miller, who is married to Stephen Miller, previously served as a spokesperson for the Department of Homeland Security and worked as an aide to former Vice President Mike Pence. She also briefly held a position in Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), a now-defunct political advisory unit.
While in DOGE, Katie Miller was said to have played a significant role in shaping Musk’s political messaging and media strategy. Her appointment marked a rare overlap between the worlds of Silicon Valley and Washington politics. Reports suggest that the Millers and Musk had a close working relationship during that time and socialised outside of work as well.
However, the relationship appears to have cooled, particularly after Musk’s public rift with former US president Donald Trump.
Tensions between Musk and Trump
The feud between Musk and Trump began when Trump criticised Musk for opposing his legislative proposal, referred to as the “Big Beautiful Bill”, which aimed to cut subsidies for electric vehicles. Speaking from the Oval Office, Trump said he was “disappointed in Elon” and accused him of acting out due to the financial impact the bill would have on Tesla.
Musk retaliated by posting on X that Trump would have lost the last election without his support, claiming Democrats would control the House and Republicans would only have a 51–49 margin in the Senate. In a further post, Musk referenced the Epstein files, suggesting that Trump’s connections might be one reason why those documents have not been released publicly.
Musk unfollows Miller amid ongoing fallout
Amid the ongoing tension, Musk has reportedly unfollowed Stephen Miller on X. The incident involving Grok and the fabricated screenshot has only added fuel to the speculation that political alliances between Musk and former Trump allies are weakening.
This event has also raised concerns about the reliability of AI tools like Grok in verifying online information, especially when used by the public to assess political or personal claims involving high-profile individuals.