Cupertino, California: Apple has officially unveiled its latest offerings, the iPhone 15 and Apple Watch Series 9, during a much-anticipated event. Alongside these, the company also introduced the new Apple Watch Ultra 2 model.

The iPhone 15 comes with notable updates, including the introduction of a Dynamic Island notch and an impressive 48-megapixel camera. This enhancement is expected to deliver an even more immersive and visually stunning experience for users. However, it's worth noting that the event did not announce the incorporation of a 120Hz refresh rate, which some had hoped for.

In addition to the iPhone 15, Apple showcased the iPhone 15 Plus, which will feature the same advancements but with a larger 6.7-inch display. This move aims to cater to consumers who prefer a more spacious screen for their mobile experience.

                      (Photo credit: @theapplehub)

 

On the smartwatch front, the Apple Watch Series 9 promises to offer better battery backup, ensuring that users can stay connected and enjoy their favorite features throughout the day. Among the key features highlighted is the double tap function, which enhances user interaction and convenience.

The Apple Watch Ultra 2 model boasts improvements in both battery life and display brightness, providing users with an enhanced wearable experience. These enhancements are expected to make the device even more attractive to those looking for a reliable and feature-rich smartwatch.

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Hubballi: In its first-ever comprehensive census conducted during 2023-24, Karnataka has identified 274 natural springs across the State with 144 classified as perennial, 114 as seasonal and 16 reported to have dried up.

The enumeration was carried out by the Karnataka Minor Irrigation and Groundwater Development Department in association with the Groundwater Directorate as part of a Union government initiative, according to a Deccan Herald report. Officials were quoted as saying that the nine-month exercise involved field visits to nearly all identified springs. These springs were digitally mapped using a dedicated mobile application.

Belagavi district recorded the highest number of springs at 59, followed by Uttara Kannada with 31, while Chamarajanagar and Kodagu reported 23 each. Dharwad, Ramanagar, Bengaluru Rural, Davangere and Kolar districts have one spring each.

Bendru Teertha in Dakshina Kannada is the only hot spring documented in the State, which is attributed to a distinct hydrological formation. Springs in Talacauvery in Kodagu, Javali in Chikkamagaluru and Ambutheertha in Shivamogga, are the source points of major rivers such as the Cauvery, Hemavathi and Sharavathi.

According to the directorate, springs are natural discharge points where groundwater flows to the surface through openings in the earth’s crust, which occur when the water table intersects with the ground surface or when groundwater is forced out through fractures, faults or permeable rock layers.

The Western Ghats and Malnad regions, covering districts like Kodagu, Chikkamagaluru, Uttara Kannada, Dakshina Kannada, Belagavi and Shivamogga, account for a significant share of the springs due to high rainfall and favourable geological conditions.

K B Rajendra, Director of the Groundwater Directorate, was quoted by Deccan Herald as saying that nearly 80 per cent of the springs are located in rural areas. He noted that apart from those associated with religious or historical sites, most springs remain open and lack protective measures.

Noting their vital contributions to drinking water supplies and agricultural irrigation, especially in areas with hills and mountains, Rajendra said that these springs help maintain the flow of rivers and streams when the weather is dry, thereby supporting ecological balance and promoting biodiversity.


He added that the census findings would serve as a database for conservation, rejuvenation efforts, groundwater management and long-term water resource planning in the State.