Hike users to chat, share files sans internet

Internet firm hike messenger has launched hike direct, which will allow users to chat, exchange stickers, transfer photos and files without the Internet and without incurring data charges. hike direct allows mobile phones to connect with one another directly within a 100 meter radius completely by passing the telecom networks. Users can then chat and share files directly up to a speed of 40Mbps with very low latency.

hike direct is built from the ground up with a new generation of network solutions and uses Wi-Fi Direct technology systems that help establish peer to peer network connection between two phones. Users can get this feature by upgrading to the latest version of hike, version 4.0.6 and above. The feature, currently available only on Android, will be launched on iOS and Windows next year.

Domestic music streaming service Saavn has announced that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s popular program, “Mann Ki Baat” will be available for streaming on Saavn. Prime Minister Modi hosts the program to address issues and events that affect the general public in India on a daily basis. This marks the first presence of “Mann Ki Baat” on an Indian digital streaming platform.

As the world experiences significant growth in digital audio streaming, “Mann Ki Baat” will now be available to Saavn’s global listener base of 18 million monthly active users. The addition of the program to Saavn’s streaming platform immediately follows the company’s recent announcement of its intention to expand beyond music content.

“We are honored to have Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s program, ‘Mann Ki Baat,’ streaming on Saavn. This is in line with his vision of a ‘Digital India’ wherein technology can effect a qualitative change in peoples’ lives. As one of the most influential personalities on social media globally, our Prime Minister has continuously encouraged the use of digital platforms,” said Mahesh Narayanan, global chief operating officer, Saavn.

The Mann Ki Baat playlist is now available for streaming on Saavn as a compilation of previous episodes. Each episode can be streamed in up to 24 languages. New episodes will be available on Saavn the same day as they are aired.