Google DeepMind Launches Gemini Robotics On-Device Model
Google DeepMind has unveiled a new AI model for robotics. On 24 June 2025, the company introduced Gemini Robotics On-Device, a vision-language-action (VLA) model that operates locally on robots without needing an internet connection. Built on the Gemini 2.0 framework, it enables robots to perform tasks like folding clothes and unzipping bags with high dexterity. The model, initially trained on ALOHA robots, has been adapted for bi-arm Franka FR3 and Apptronik’s Apollo humanoid robots. Google claims it matches the performance of its cloud-based Gemini Robotics model. A software development kit (SDK) was also released, allowing developers to fine-tune the model with 50–100 demonstrations. The model targets latency-sensitive applications in homes, hospitals, and factories, enhancing privacy and responsiveness. Google is collaborating with trusted testers to refine its capabilities.
England Clinch Thrilling Victory Over India in First Test at Headingley
England secured a dramatic five-wicket win against India in the first Test at Headingley on 24 June 2025. Chasing 371, England’s Ben Duckett led with a stunning 149, supported by Zak Crawley’s 60 and Joe Root’s fifty, reaching 373/5 in 82 overs. India, batting first after England’s decision to bowl, posted 471, with centuries from Shubman Gill (147), Yashasvi Jaiswal (101), and Rishabh Pant (134). England replied with 465, Ollie Pope scoring 100. India’s second innings totalled 364, with KL Rahul and Pant hitting tons, setting a challenging target. India’s six dropped catches and lower-order collapses (7/41 and 6/31) proved costly. Jasprit Bumrah took five wickets but was wicketless in England’s chase. The victory gives England a 1-0 lead in the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy series.
US Strikes Damage Iran’s Nuclear Sites Amid Conflicting Claims
US military strikes hit Iran’s nuclear facilities on 22 June 2025, targeting Fordo, Natanz, and Isfahan. The operation, dubbed Midnight Hammer, involved seven B-2 stealth bombers deploying 30,000-pound bunker-buster bombs. President Donald Trump claimed the strikes “obliterated” Iran’s nuclear programme, comparing the impact to Hiroshima’s atomic bombing. However, a leaked Pentagon report suggests the strikes only set back Iran’s nuclear capabilities by months, with key centrifuges intact and 400kg of 60% enriched uranium moved beforehand. Iran confirmed significant damage but insisted its programme persists for peaceful purposes. A fragile ceasefire with Israel holds, following 12 days of mutual attacks. Satellite images from Maxar Technologies show craters at Fordo, though underground facilities may remain operational. The IAEA seeks inspections to assess the damage. Trump dismissed the report as “fake news”.
Four Dead in Devastating Fire at Rithala Chemical Factory
A massive fire erupted at a chemical factory in Delhi’s Rithala area on 24 June 2025, claiming four lives. The blaze, reported at 7:25 pm near Rithala Metro Station in Rohini Sector-5, engulfed a four-storey building used for manufacturing plastic and readymade bags. Delhi Fire Services deployed 16 fire tenders, but the fire raged for 12 hours due to intense heat and thick smoke. Three charred bodies were recovered from the first floor around 1:15 am, with a fourth found on the top floor by Wednesday morning. Three others were critically injured. The factory, identified as Rana Complex, faced allegations of operating illegally without adequate safety measures. Police are investigating the cause, while rescue operations continue amid debris. The incident has raised concerns about industrial safety in residential areas.
Kharge Rebukes Tharoor Over Modi Praise, Sparks Cryptic Response
Tensions within the Congress party escalated on 25 June 2025 after Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge indirectly criticised MP Shashi Tharoor for praising Prime Minister Narendra Modi. At a New Delhi press conference, Kharge remarked that while Congress prioritises “country first,” some, like Tharoor, put “Modi first, country later.” Tharoor’s article in The Hindu on 23 June lauded Modi’s “energy, dynamism, and willingness to engage” as a “prime asset” for India’s global outreach, particularly post-Operation Sindoor, a multi-party diplomatic mission Tharoor led. Kharge credited Tharoor’s Congress Working Committee role to his English skills but questioned his priorities. Hours later, Tharoor posted a cryptic message on X: “Don’t ask permission to fly. The wings are yours.” The exchange highlights growing internal rifts, with no disciplinary action confirmed against Tharoor.
Poco F7 5G Launched in India with Massive 7,550mAh Battery
Poco unveiled its latest mid-range flagship, the Poco F7 5G, in India on 24 June 2025. The smartphone, powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 chipset, features a 7,550mAh silicon-carbon battery with 90W fast charging and 22.5W reverse charging, making it the largest battery in a mainstream Indian smartphone. It sports a 6.83-inch 1.5K AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 7i. The device includes a dual-camera setup with a 50MP Sony IMX882 primary sensor and an 8MP ultra-wide lens, alongside a 20MP front camera. Running Android 15-based HyperOS 2.0, it offers up to 12GB RAM and 512GB storage. Priced at ₹29,999 for 12GB+256GB and ₹31,999 for 12GB+512GB, it will be available on Flipkart from 1 July, with ₹2,000 bank discounts.
