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Krutrim Launches Free Tier for Ola Maps APIs Amid Google's Rate Cut

July 19, 2024

Krutrim, founded by Ola's Bhavish Aggarwal, unveiled a new free tier for Ola Maps APIs on July 18, aiming to drive developer adoption. This move responds to Google's plan to reduce Google Maps platform rates by up to 70% in India from August 1, 2024. The free tier includes essential APIs like autocomplete and directions, complemented by upcoming releases of new APIs, SDKs, and features. Aggarwal highlights the initiative's goal of supporting Indian innovation and offering competitive pricing against global tech giants. Additionally, early adopters committing to long-term use will benefit from waived charges, reinforcing Krutrim's commitment to fostering local tech talent.

Sundar Pichai, CEO of Google, speaking with animated hand gestures, in front of graphics representing Google I/O Connect, Bengaluru, and MeitY Startup Hub. The background includes colorful illustrations related to the event and technology.

Google and MeitY Collaborate to Train 10,000 Indian Startups in AI

Akansha Panwar

July 17, 2024

Google, in collaboration with India's Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), has launched an initiative to train 10,000 startups in artificial intelligence. Announced at Google I/O Connect in Bengaluru, the program offers eligible startups up to $350,000 in Google Cloud credits, an AI-first programming curriculum, and a launchpad to expand their services. Google will provide access to its Gen AI models, Gemini and Gemma, along with language tools from Google DeepMind India to support services in local languages. Google also announced expanded access to powerful AI models like Gemini 1.5 Pro and Gemma 2, and plans to host a GenAI Hackathon and AI Startup Bootcamp in India. Additionally, Google has reduced fees for its Google Maps Platform and introduced the open-source AI model Gemma 2 to Indian developers.