Business

Google Asks South Korea to Permit Export of High-Precision Map Data

Published

1 year ago

February 28, 2025

Google has approached the South Korean government for permission to move the country’s high-precision map data abroad, following two unsuccessful attempts in the past. Officials reported this development on Friday.

The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport stated that Google submitted an application to the National Geographic Information Institute, which is state-run, on February 18. This application requests approval to transfer 1:5,000 scale high-precision map data to its overseas data centers, as reported by the Yonhap news agency.

Currently, Google utilizes publicly available lower-resolution map data at a scale of 1:25,000, supplemented by aerial and satellite imagery, which results in less accurate mapping services compared to those offered by local providers.

Google has made previous requests regarding this matter in 2007 and 2016; however, both were denied by the South Korean government due to national security concerns, specifically regarding the potential exposure of military installations and other sensitive sites. In 2016, the government suggested that Google either blur sensitive locations or store the data on local servers, proposals that Google declined.

In this latest attempt, Google has shown its willingness to comply with blurring requirements and has also requested coordinate data for security facilities. This additional request has raised concerns within the government’s security sector.

An internal review will now take place, followed by deliberations among officials. Regulations dictate that a decision must be provided to Google within 60 days, with a possible extension of an additional 60 days if needed.

“Due to security concerns, the perspectives of the Defense Ministry and the National Intelligence Service will carry significant weight in these discussions,” noted a government official.

In a related development, last December, South Korean automotive leader Hyundai Motor Group announced its collaboration with Google to enhance its automotive software systems and provide next-generation navigation and infotainment experiences for drivers, as per the report.

Business

Opendoor Shuts Down India Operations, 250 Employees Affected

Published

1 day ago

June 11, 2026

Namma Kudla

Business: US-based real estate technology company Opendoor has decided to close its operations in India. The move will impact nearly 250 employees.

CEO Kaz Nejatian said the company is bringing operational roles closer to its customers in the United States. He explained that most of Opendoor’s customers are based in America.

The company said the decision is not related to the performance of its India team. Nejatian praised the employees for their hard work and contributions.

Affected workers will receive severance pay, job placement support, and other assistance. A small number of employees will stay temporarily to help with the transition.

Opendoor said it will continue focusing on simplifying operations and improving efficiency with new technology and AI.

Business

Domestic LPG Cylinder Price Increased by Rs 29

Published

5 days ago

June 7, 2026

Namma Kudla

New Delhi: The price of domestic LPG cooking gas cylinders has been increased by Rs 29 across India. This is the second price hike in the last three months.

The increase comes as global energy prices continue to rise due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

After the revision, a domestic LPG cylinder now costs Rs 942 in Delhi, Rs 941.40 in Mumbai, Rs 968 in Kolkata, and Rs 957.50 in Chennai. In Bengaluru, the new price is Rs 944.50 per cylinder.

The government said the cost of supplying LPG has increased significantly. However, subsidies under the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana continue to help over 10 crore beneficiaries.

Petrol, diesel, and CNG prices have also increased in recent weeks as global fuel markets remain volatile.

Business

Honda Begins Delivery of 2026 City Hybrid

Published

1 week ago

June 3, 2026

Namma Kudla

Business: Honda Cars India has started delivering the new 2026 Honda City Hybrid to customers. The first car was handed over at a dealership in Bengaluru.

Honda President and CEO Takashi Nakajima attended the special delivery event. Other senior company officials were also present.

The first customer received a Crystal Black Pearl Honda City Hybrid. The car was delivered with a symbolic key and a gift hamper.

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The updated City comes with new features such as ventilated front seats and a 360-degree camera. It also offers wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a sunroof.

The sedan is available with petrol and strong-hybrid powertrain options. Honda claims the hybrid version delivers a mileage of 27.26 kmpl.

The Honda City competes with the Volkswagen Virtus, Skoda Slavia, and Hyundai Verna in India.