Azhar Iqubal, the co-founder and CEO of Inshorts, is synonymous with innovation in the Indian tech ecosystem. His revolutionary platform has redefined how people consume news by delivering concise, 60-word summaries tailored for the modern, time-crunched audience.
In 2013, Azhar, along with Anunay Arunav and Deepit Purkayastha, launched Inshorts to make information accessible and easy to digest. The platform started as a Facebook page named “News in Shorts,” where they summarized news articles into short, crisp updates. The immense popularity of this initiative soon led to the development of the Inshorts app, which today boasts millions of daily active users.
How Inshorts Became a Game-Changer
1. Solving a Modern Problem
In an era where attention spans are shrinking, Inshorts has become a go-to platform for individuals seeking quick updates. The app provides news across various categories, such as politics, technology, entertainment, and sports, in just 60 words.
2. Leveraging AI and Machine Learning
Under Azhar’s leadership, Inshorts adopted cutting-edge technology to curate and deliver personalized news feeds. By analyzing user preferences, the app ensures that users receive content that aligns with their interests, enhancing engagement and satisfaction.
3. Securing Strong Investor Support
Azhar’s vision attracted the attention of major investors, including Tiger Global, Rebright Partners, and more. The company has raised millions of dollars in funding, enabling it to scale operations and refine its product offerings.
Azhar Iqubal’s Leadership Philosophy
Azhar has consistently emphasized the importance of innovation, user-centric design, and adaptability. His ability to identify market gaps and address them with unique solutions has been pivotal in the success of Inshorts.
He believes in empowering teams to think creatively and solve real-world problems. This leadership approach has not only helped Inshorts thrive but also laid the groundwork for his next big venture, Public App, a hyperlocal social network that has further expanded his influence in the tech space.
Key Milestones for Azhar Iqubal and Inshorts
- 2013: Launched “News in Shorts” as a Facebook page.
- 2015: Transformed the initiative into the Inshorts app, gaining instant popularity.
- 2016: Featured on Forbes India’s “30 Under 30” list, recognizing Azhar’s contributions to the tech industry.
- 2019: Expanded with the launch of Public App, focusing on hyperlocal content.
Why Inshorts Stands Out
- User-Friendly Interface: Inshorts simplifies news consumption by presenting clean, visually appealing cards.
- Diverse Categories: From current affairs to entertainment, the app covers a wide range of topics.
- Ad-Free Experience: Unlike many news apps, Inshorts prioritizes user experience by minimizing intrusive advertisements.
Conclusion
Azhar Iqubal entrepreneurial journey with Inshorts is a testament to the power of innovative thinking and determination. By addressing the need for bite-sized, personalized news, he has created a platform that resonates with millions of users. His ability to adapt to changing user preferences and incorporate advanced technology has ensured Inshorts’ position as a leader in the digital news space.
With ventures like Public App under his belt, Azhar continues to push boundaries, proving that his vision extends far beyond Inshorts. His journey inspires countless aspiring entrepreneurs to think big and stay committed to solving real-world challenges.
