We create tech keeping humans in mind: Kuldeep Malik, MediaTek

For Taiwanese chipmaker MediaTek, gaming is one of the key focus areas. During the ongoing lockdown period in India the number of gamers and time spent on games on smartphones has increased dramatically. This could translate into bigger opportunity for gaming chipsets. In an e-mail interview Kuldeep Malik, director, corporate sales, MediaTek India discussed trends in gaming in India, the products that MediaTek offers and outlook on the market opportunity here. Edited excerpts:

What are some of the new trends in gaming that you have noticed during this lockdown?
Smartphones are a natural platform to play games. There was a 110% growth in the usage of gaming apps between Jan 1 to Mar 11, 2020, with the daily average time spent on gaming rising to 45 minutes, from 30 minutes previously, according to a recent report by Bengaluru-based InMobi Group. AppFlyer recorded a 42% a 32% hike in casual gaming revenue, in India.

A major trend that during lockdown is the innovative offerings created by gaming companies. The challenges, immersive experiences and team involvement offered by disruptive games make them appeal to users. Some games like PUBG are also coming up with survival scenarios, in keeping with the COVID-19 health scare. During the lockdown, where social interactions are at a minimum, the option of live chatting with teammates during gaming and interacting with multiple players also creates a sense of purpose and belonging.