Here’s your roundup of the top tech stories from 17 January 2026: Amazon and Flipkart have kicked off their first major sale of the year, Iran’s internet blackout has now lasted 192 hours, ChatGPT will soon start showing ads, Vivo’s upcoming smartphone specifications have leaked, and Reliance’s Akash Ambani outlines India’s AI-powered future.
1. Amazon & Flipkart’s Great Republic Day Sale Goes Live
The Great Republic Day Sale 2026 is now live on both Amazon and Flipkart. Shoppers are eyeing iPhone 17 series deals, with iPhone 17 Pro available at ₹1,25,400 after discounts, including ₹6,500 coupon offers and ₹3,000 bank discounts. The iPhone 17 Pro Max starts at ₹1,40,400, while Apple’s thinnest smartphone can be purchased for ₹91,249. Offers extend across iPhone 15 and 16 models as well.
2. Iran’s Internet Shutdown Hits 192 Hours
Iran has now completed 192 hours (8 days) of nationwide internet blackout following anti-government protests. Most of the population remains cut off from mobile and internet services, though some are accessing limited connectivity via Starlink satellite internet.
3. ChatGPT Ad Testing Begins
OpenAI co-founder Sam Altman has confirmed that advertisements will soon appear in ChatGPT for users of both free and Go plans. Ads will appear below the AI’s responses but will not influence ChatGPT’s answers. Altman assured that user interactions will remain private, emphasizing that the move is aimed at making free AI sustainable for users who do not wish to pay.
4. Vivo X200T Specifications Leaked
The upcoming Vivo X200T smartphone has reportedly leaked online. Key features include:
- 6.67-inch AMOLED display
- Dimensity 9400 Plus chipset
- 12GB RAM
- Triple rear cameras: 50MP each, plus 32MP front camera
- 6,200mAh battery supporting 90W wired charging and 40W wireless charging
5. India to Become AI-Empowered, Says Akash Ambani
Akash Ambani, Chairman of Reliance Jio Infocom, highlighted that Reliance’s AI initiatives will empower India through the company’s 50+ crore subscribers, extensive distribution network, and deep understanding of customer needs. According to him, AI tools will be accessible to every citizen and enterprise, enabling India not just to be AI-enabled, but truly AI-empowered.
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