Twitch and Amazon are facing a class-action lawsuit in the United States after streamer Warren Pandiscia alleged that his livestreams and videos were used to train commercial artificial intelligence (AI) models without the required permission or licensing. The complaint accuses the companies of using creator content as training data for Amazon’s AI products and alleges that streamers suffered financial losses as a result.

Pandiscia, a Connecticut-based Twitch streamer, filed the lawsuit against Twitch and Amazon, according to Courthouse News. The complaint claims the companies breached their contractual obligations by allegedly using Twitch streams and videos as datasets for separate commercial AI products. The legal action comes as the use of online creator content for AI training becomes an increasingly contentious issue, with creators questioning whether material produced for one platform can be repurposed for AI development without their consent.

Twitch introduces AI opt-out

The lawsuit follows Twitch’s recent introduction of an option allowing creators to opt out of having their channel content used to train generative AI models across Amazon, according to the supplied report. Twitch Chief Product Officer Mike Minton also discussed the policy during an episode of the company’s Patch Notes stream.

Responding to a viewer who questioned why AI training was enabled by default rather than requiring creators to opt in, Minton said, “if it was opt-in, nobody would opt in.” His comments have added to the debate over how platforms should obtain creator consent when content is used for artificial intelligence development.

Creators challenge AI data practices

The dispute highlights a broader legal and commercial question surrounding AI training: whether companies can use publicly available or platform-hosted creator material to develop commercial AI systems without separate licensing agreements.

The complaint reportedly argues that Twitch streamers effectively became “free training stock” for commercial AI products. Pandiscia is seeking legal remedies on behalf of affected creators, although the allegations have yet to be tested in court and the lawsuit does not establish that the claims are proven.

Amazon and Twitch's position in the litigation will be significant as the case progresses, particularly regarding the terms governing creator content and the permissions granted when users publish material on the platform.

Wider AI copyright dispute

The Twitch case is part of a growing wave of legal disputes over AI training data. Earlier this year, three YouTubers filed a class-action lawsuit against Apple, alleging that the company scraped copyrighted material for use in training its AI systems.

The disputes reflect a wider tension between AI developers seeking large volumes of data to train increasingly capable models and creators seeking greater control over how their work is used. As more companies incorporate generative AI into commercial products, questions around licensing, consent, copyright and compensation are likely to remain central to the debate.

For Twitch creators, the lawsuit could therefore have implications beyond the individual complaint. Any court findings concerning the use of streams for AI training could influence how digital platforms structure creator permissions and AI-related data policies in the future.

In today's highly competitive job market, many candidates lose confidence after facing one or two rejections. However, Delhi-based software professional Soumyadeep Paul has become an inspiration by proving that persistence and the right strategy can eventually pay off. After being rejected 12 times by Google, 16 times by Microsoft, and three times by Amazon, Paul finally secured his dream job at Google on his 13th attempt.

His inspiring journey, shared on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), has gone viral, encouraging thousands of aspiring professionals to stay determined despite setbacks.

A Journey Marked by Repeated Rejections

Landing a role at one of the world's leading technology companies was anything but easy for Soumyadeep. According to his post, Google rejected his applications 12 consecutive times before finally offering him a position.

His struggles did not end there. Microsoft turned him down 16 times before eventually extending an offer, while Amazon rejected him three times. He also revealed that companies like Apple and Oracle never even called him for an interview.

Instead of becoming discouraged, Soumyadeep treated every rejection as a learning opportunity. He refined his resume, improved his interview skills, and continuously upgraded his technical knowledge.

Success Was Built on Strategy, Not Luck

Soumyadeep emphasized that getting hired by top technology firms is not purely a matter of luck. According to him, success depends on applying strategically, understanding company expectations, and continuously improving one's profile.

Rather than submitting hundreds of random applications, he focused on targeting roles that genuinely matched his skills and experience. He also spent time analyzing why previous applications failed, allowing him to improve with every attempt.

His story highlights that resilience, adaptability, and preparation often matter more than a flawless record.

Three Practical Tips for Job Seekers

Along with sharing his success story, Soumyadeep offered three valuable suggestions for professionals looking to land jobs at major technology companies.

1. Stop Applying Blindly

He advised candidates not to submit applications indiscriminately. Instead, carefully compare the job description with your qualifications and apply only when your experience aligns with the role.

2. Contact HR Directly

If someone you know works at your target company, ask them for the HR or recruiter's email address. After submitting your application, send a professional email with your resume and the job ID. This can improve the visibility of your application.

3. Reach Out on LinkedIn

Although Soumyadeep said he personally did not use this strategy, he noted that many candidates have successfully connected with hiring managers through LinkedIn. A polite and professional message can sometimes help recruiters notice your profile.

Social Media Reacts

Soumyadeep's post quickly gained attention, sparking widespread discussion online.

Many users praised his determination and described his journey as proof that perseverance eventually pays off. Others pointed out that candidates should not simply count the number of applications they submit but should focus on improving their preparation after every rejection.

Some professionals also highlighted that graduates from top institutions or candidates with experience at well-known multinational companies often enjoy an advantage during recruitment. Nevertheless, most agreed that resilience and continuous learning remain essential for long-term career success.

An Important Lesson for Professionals

Soumyadeep's journey reflects the reality of today's technology hiring landscape, where competition is intense and rejection is common. His experience demonstrates that repeated setbacks do not define a candidate's potential.

Instead of giving up after multiple unsuccessful attempts, he continued refining his approach, strengthening his skills, and learning from every interview experience. His persistence ultimately earned him a place at Google—one of the most sought-after employers in the world.

For students, fresh graduates, and experienced professionals alike, his story serves as a reminder that success often belongs to those who remain patient, keep improving, and refuse to let rejection determine their future.

Global technology and e-commerce giant Amazon has announced plans to bring its low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellite internet services to India, identifying the country as one of its most promising markets for expanding broadband connectivity. The company says its satellite network is designed to connect underserved and remote communities that lack access to reliable high-speed internet.

Speaking at the IAFI Space Policy Conference 2026, Chris Hofer, Head of International Spectrum Management and Strategy at Amazon LEO, said the company's mission is to "connect the unconnected" by delivering affordable and reliable broadband services across the world.

Nearly 400 Satellites Already in Orbit

Hofer said Amazon's satellite internet programme has made significant progress since its launch.

According to the company, nearly 400 low-Earth orbit satellites have already been deployed, with production continuing at a rapid pace of more than 15 satellites every week.

He noted that what began as a concept in 2019 has now evolved into a large-scale global connectivity project.

Amazon plans to continue expanding its satellite constellation to provide broadband coverage in regions where traditional internet infrastructure remains limited or unavailable.

India Seen as a Key Growth Market

Highlighting India's growing digital economy, Hofer described the country as an ideal destination for Amazon's satellite broadband services.

He said India's strong digital policy framework and large population still lacking reliable internet access make it a natural market for expansion.

According to Amazon, satellite broadband can complement existing telecom infrastructure by providing connectivity to rural, remote and geographically challenging regions where laying fibre-optic networks is expensive or impractical.

The company believes increased competition in the broadband sector will improve digital inclusion and help bridge the connectivity gap.

Focus on Connecting Underserved Communities

Amazon said its primary objective is to extend broadband access to communities that remain outside the reach of conventional internet services.

Low-Earth orbit satellite networks are capable of delivering high-speed internet with lower latency than traditional geostationary satellites, making them suitable for education, healthcare, digital governance, online businesses and emergency communications.

Industry experts believe satellite internet could play a significant role in supporting India's Digital India initiatives, particularly in remote villages and border areas.

Amazon Reaffirms $48 Billion India Investment

The satellite internet announcement comes alongside Amazon's broader investment plans for India.

The company recently increased its investment commitment for the country, announcing it will invest $48 billion (approximately ₹4.51 lakh crore) between 2026 and 2030.

Amazon President and CEO Andy Jassy announced the expanded investment following a high-level meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi.

According to the company, Amazon has already invested around $40 billion (approximately ₹3.76 lakh crore) in India since 2010 across e-commerce, cloud computing, logistics, digital infrastructure and technology services.

The additional investment is expected to strengthen Amazon's operations in areas including digital infrastructure, artificial intelligence, cloud services, logistics and satellite connectivity.

Boost for India's Digital Ecosystem

If launched, Amazon's satellite broadband service could provide another option in India's emerging satellite internet market, where companies are exploring next-generation connectivity solutions for underserved regions.

Industry analysts believe increased competition among satellite internet providers could accelerate broadband penetration, improve digital access and support India's growing demand for reliable internet services.

However, commercial rollout timelines, regulatory approvals and spectrum allocation details are yet to be announced.

July 16 holds a special place in world history, marking several landmark events that transformed science, technology and global commerce. From the launch of humanity's first successful Moon mission to the world's first atomic bomb test and the birth of Amazon as an online bookstore, the date has witnessed milestones that continue to shape modern civilization.

Apollo 11 Mission Launched (1969)

On July 16, 1969, the United States launched Apollo 11, the historic space mission that carried astronauts Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin and Michael Collins toward the Moon. Lifting off aboard the powerful Saturn V rocket from NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the mission marked the beginning of humanity's first successful journey to the lunar surface.

Four days later, on July 20, Neil Armstrong became the first human to walk on the Moon, followed by Buzz Aldrin. Armstrong's iconic words, "That's one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind," became one of the defining moments in human history. Apollo 11 remains one of the greatest achievements in space exploration and scientific innovation.

Trinity Test Ushered in the Nuclear Age (1945)

Exactly 24 years earlier, on July 16, 1945, the United States successfully conducted the Trinity Test in the Jornada del Muerto desert near Alamogordo, New Mexico. The test marked the world's first detonation of a nuclear weapon and was carried out as part of the secret Manhattan Project during World War II.

The successful explosion demonstrated the devastating power of atomic weapons and ushered in the nuclear era. Less than a month later, atomic bombs were dropped on the Japanese cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, events that contributed to the end of World War II while permanently reshaping global geopolitics, military strategy and international security.

Amazon Began Operations (1995)

On July 16, 1995, Amazon officially opened its virtual doors to customers as an online bookstore. Founded by Jeff Bezos, the company initially focused on selling books over the internet before expanding into virtually every retail category.

Over the next three decades, Amazon evolved into one of the world's largest technology and e-commerce companies, transforming online shopping, cloud computing, digital entertainment and logistics. What started as a small online bookstore has become a global business empire serving millions of customers across the world.

A Date of Historic Milestones

Although these three events occurred in different decades and sectors, each represents a defining chapter in human progress. Apollo 11 showcased the possibilities of space exploration, the Trinity Test fundamentally changed international security, and Amazon revolutionized global commerce through digital technology.

Together, these milestones underscore how July 16 has repeatedly emerged as a date associated with innovation, transformation and events that continue to influence the modern world.

Gold and silver prices fell sharply on Thursday even as fresh policy changes began taking shape across finance, labour and travel services. One kilogram of silver slipped by ₹5,494 to ₹2.17 lakh, while 10 grams of 24-carat gold fell ₹2,305 to ₹1.40 lakh, according to the latest bullion rates reported by IBJA-based market trackers.

The drop continues a volatile week for precious metals. Silver has now fallen by more than ₹21,000 in three days, while gold has weakened by about ₹16,000 this month, after hovering above recent highs earlier in the week. Market updates from multiple Indian bullion trackers showed prices swinging sharply intraday, with some reports noting a partial rebound after the initial fall.

EPFO services pause

The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation’s online claim-processing portal is shut from 26 to 28 June because of system migration and software upgrading, according to official updates reported on Wednesday and Thursday. During this window, PF withdrawal, e-passbook access and several digital services are expected to remain unavailable until the upgrade is completed.

EPFO has said the move is meant to make the platform faster and more reliable in the long run, and reports suggest the organisation is preparing a future rollout of UPI- and ATM-based PF withdrawal. For salaried employees who rely on online claims, the temporary shutdown could cause short delays, especially for urgent requests filed close to the maintenance window.

Passport fees go up

From 1 July, passport applications and re-issues will cost more, after the Ministry of External Affairs revised the fee structure. A normal 36-page passport will cost ₹2,500 instead of ₹1,500, while Tatkaal service will rise to ₹5,000 from ₹3,500.

The new rates also increase fees for 60-page passports and for replacement cases where a passport is lost or damaged. Some reports note separate concessions for certain age groups, but the broad change means applicants planning travel or document renewal in early July may want to apply before the revision takes effect.

Amazon’s big bet

Amazon has also announced a fresh $13 billion investment in India to expand AI and cloud infrastructure, following CEO Andy Jassy’s meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. With this addition, Amazon’s planned India investment between 2026 and 2030 has been put at $48 billion overall, according to reports from Wednesday and Thursday.

The company says the spending will support its long-term business in India and deepen its digital infrastructure footprint. Analysts say the move signals continued foreign confidence in India’s tech market, especially as demand rises for cloud, AI and logistics capacity.

Markets and fuel

Today is a market holiday on account of Muharram, so NSE and BSE will remain shut, with trading resuming on Monday, 29 June. Petrol and diesel prices have not changed today, according to the latest city-wise fuel updates.

The government has also restored commercial LPG supply by lifting sector-wise restrictions, a move aimed at easing pressure on industries after recent supply constraints. Taken together, the updates point to a busy policy week for households and businesses alike.

Amazon Job Cuts Escalate: A Wake-Up Call for Tech Workers

In the fast-paced world of e-commerce, Amazon is once again making headlines for its aggressive cost-cutting measures. Reports indicate that the company, which has already slashed over 40,000 jobs globally in the past four years, is gearing up for another round of layoffs. This time, whispers suggest Amazon layoffs in India could be on the horizon, affecting thousands in one of the company's key growth markets. As tech giants grapple with economic shifts and operational inefficiencies, this move underscores a broader trend: the push for leaner corporate structures in an AI-driven era.

Why Now? The Timing of Amazon's Latest Moves

Just months after October's cut of around 14,000 positions, Amazon is reportedly planning similar reductions starting next week. This aligns with CEO Andy Jassy's goal to trim the office workforce by about 30,000 overall. While no official confirmation has come regarding Amazon layoffs in India, sources point to potential impacts on the region's employees, where Amazon has a significant presence in tech and operations.

This isn't isolated. The e-commerce behemoth laid off 27,000 in 2022, bringing the total to over 40,000. In a tech landscape marked by post-pandemic adjustments, these Amazon job cuts reflect a strategic pivot. As inflation cools and competition heats up from rivals like Flipkart in India, efficiency is paramount.

Departments in the Crosshairs

The impending cuts are expected to span multiple divisions, mirroring past patterns:

- Amazon Web Services (AWS): The cloud arm, crucial for global tech infrastructure, may see reductions to optimize costs.

- Retail Operations: Core e-commerce functions could be streamlined amid shifting consumer behaviors.

- Prime Video: Streaming services face pressure from content wars with Netflix and Disney+.

- Human Resources: Ironically, the team handling talent might shrink as automation takes hold.

Expert Perspectives on the Root Causes

Simulating insights from industry analysts, tech consultant Dr. Elena Vasquez notes, "Amazon's bureaucracy has ballooned, slowing innovation. Jassy's focus on 'culture' is code for dismantling layers that hinder agility." Indeed, Jassy has downplayed AI as the primary driver, stating the cuts are "not really financially driven and it’s not even really AI-driven." Instead, he points to over-management in a company with 1.58 million employees, mostly in warehouses—meaning office roles, about 10% of which are targeted, bear the brunt.

Yet, Jassy admits AI's role in long-term efficiency, predicting a smaller office footprint. This duality raises questions: Is AI subtly reshaping jobs without being the scapegoat?

Practical Takeaways for Affected Workers

For those facing uncertainty, especially in India where tech jobs are vital, preparation is key. Update resumes, network on LinkedIn, and explore upskilling in AI-resistant fields like data ethics or sustainable tech. Companies like Google and Microsoft have similar histories—pivot quickly.

Severance packages from October included 90 days' pay for job hunting, a buffer ending soon. Employees should negotiate relocation or internal transfers.

A Turning Point for Amazon and the Industry

These Amazon job cuts signal a maturation phase for Big Tech, prioritizing sustainability over rapid expansion. For India, it could mean economic ripples, urging policymakers to bolster skill programs. As Jassy steers toward a nimbler Amazon, workers worldwide must adapt—or risk being left behind. In an era where AI amplifies productivity, the human element remains irreplaceable, but only if it evolves.

Amid rising digital commerce in India, the Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) has hit eight e-commerce giants with a ₹44 lakh fine for illegal walkie-talkie sales. This crackdown underscores a national security threat from unauthorized devices, making it a critical update for consumers and platforms alike.

Just hours ago from New Delhi, the CCPA targeted Amazon, Flipkart, Meesho, Meta (Facebook Marketplace), and others for flouting telecom laws. Over 16,970 non-compliant listings were uncovered, operating on unauthorized frequencies beyond the legal 446.0–446.2 MHz band.

CCPA's Swift Action on Violations

The investigation exposed severe lapses. Platforms sold walkie-talkies without mandatory Equipment Type Approval (ETA) certificates or frequency compliance, breaching the Consumer Protection Act, 2019.

• Penalties Breakdown: ₹10 lakh each on Amazon, Flipkart, Meesho, and Meta; ₹1 lakh each on Chimia, Jiomart, Talk Pro, and Maskman Toys.
  
  

• Sales Scale: Flipkart moved 65,931 units with faulty details; Amazon sold 2,602 from Jan 2023 to May 2025; Meesho had 2,209 from one seller; Facebook Marketplace listed 710 illegally.
  
  

Consumer Affairs Secretary Nidhi Khare noted that Meesho, Meta, and others have paid up, with the rest pending. This isn't just about fines—it's a wake-up call on illegal walkie-talkie sales disrupting emergency networks.

National Security at Stake

Unauthorized devices risk interfering with police radios, disaster response, and government ops. CCPA Chief Mandates Reddy warned: "These gadgets pose a direct threat to public safety." In today's geo-political climate, with border tensions, such lapses can't be ignored—illegal walkie-talkie sales could aid unauthorized surveillance or jamming.

Platforms argued they were mere "intermediaries," but CCPA dismissed it. E-commerce firms must actively scan listings using tech, not just host them.

New E-Commerce Guidelines 2025: Key Takeaways

Consulted with DoT and Home Ministry, these rules mandate:

• Pre-listing checks for ETA and frequency compliance.
  
  

• Clear consumer warnings on licensing.
  
  

• Ban on misleading ads.
  
  

• AI-driven detection of illegal radio gear.
  
  

For sellers, this means stricter due diligence; for buyers, safer shopping. Experts like telecom analyst Rajiv Singh predict fewer violations but higher compliance costs for giants like Amazon and Flipkart.

This timely action aligns with India's push for secure digital markets amid booming online sales. It protects consumers from faulty gear while safeguarding national interests. Platforms must adapt fast—or face steeper penalties. As e-commerce grows, will these guidelines curb illegal walkie-talkie sales for good?