India’s missing children problem; Flawsome’s flushable sanitary pad

Hello,

If you want to understand where AI is headed next, follow the concrete, steel, and electricity.

The latest sign comes from SoftBank, which plans to invest up to €75 billion (~$87 billion) in French data centres. The project, which would add up to 5 gigawatts of capacity, is the company’s largest AI infrastructure investment in Europe.

What that infrastructure could power is also becoming clearer. One possibility: AI that you wear around your neck.

Meta is reportedly developing an AI-powered pendant that could be worn around the neck or clipped to clothing. The device would build on technology acquired from startup Limitless and shows a growing belief that AI may eventually move beyond phones and laptops into new types of devices.

AI is also finding applications in aged care. In Australia, companion robots, virtual reality experiences, and smart devices are being introduced to help reduce loneliness, support carers and assist older people to live more independently. Yet even advocates of the technology argue that it should support human care, not replace it.

Beyond AI, other emerging technologies are also inching closer to everyday use. In the US, Joby Aviation recently demonstrated an electric aircraft flight from JFK Airport to Manhattan in around 10 minutes. Air taxis are still awaiting regulatory approval for routine passenger operations, but supporters believe they could eventually transform urban transport.

In today’s newsletter, we will talk about

• India’s missing children problem
• Flawsome’s flushable sanitary pad

Here’s your trivia for today: What object did the world’s first webcam monitor at the University of Cambridge?

Insight

India’s missing children problem

India’s missing children crisis is becoming increasingly gendered, with girls accounting for most cases in 2024. As missing children numbers rise, concerns are growing over gender-specific vulnerabilities, highlighting the need for stronger child protection systems, prevention measures and coordinated interventions.

Key takeaways:

• A total of 98,375 children were reported missing in 2024, a 7.8% increase from 91,296 in 2023, with girls accounting for 75,603 cases.
• Maharashtra recorded the highest number of crimes against children and reported 3,495 missing children, of whom 57.1% were girls.
• Experts stress the importance of prevention through school counselling, digital safety awareness, and stronger coordination between authorities, child protection systems and police.

ICYMI

Flawsome’s flushable sanitary pad

India’s menstrual hygiene sector witnessed a breakthrough with Flawsome’s fully flushable, biodegradable sanitary pad. Founded by Ranu Khade, the innovation aims to solve the often-overlooked challenge of menstrual waste disposal while preserving dignity, particularly in settings with limited disposal infrastructure.

Key takeaways:

• Flawsome, founded by Khade and Hitesh Narula, has developed a sanitary pad designed to be flushable in both rural and urban toilet systems and to biodegrade within 28 days if discarded.
• The idea emerged from research that identified disposal, rather than affordability or access, as a major barrier in menstrual hygiene, especially in rural areas.
• The company holds an Indian patent, has applied for an international patent, and is working with policymakers to establish India’s first standards for flushable menstrual products.

News & updates

• Apple Music: Code discovered in a recent Apple Music beta for Android points to a possible free or lower-cost subscription tier, with references suggesting new plan options.
• French Open: Ukraine’s Marta Kostyuk stunned former champion Iga Swiatek 7-5 6-1 in the French Open last 16, ending the Pole’s bid for a fifth title and continuing a series of major upsets.

What you should watch out for

• COMPUTEX 2026: Taipei takes centre stage next week as COMPUTEX 2026 opens, bringing together the world’s biggest tech firms. Jensen Huang’s keynote is expected to command particular attention.
• Microsoft Build 2026: Microsoft Build begins on June 2, with developers and investors watching for advances in AI tools, cloud services and software platforms that could shape enterprise technology.
• Monaco Grand Prix: Formula 1 returns to Monaco next week, where drivers will tackle motorsport’s most famous street circuit. The prestigious Monte Carlo race takes place on Sunday, June 7.

Did you know?

What object did the world’s first webcam monitor at the University of Cambridge?

Answer: Coffee pot

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