Telecom
Samsung Unveils Galaxy Z Flip4 & Galaxy Z Fold4 Smartphones in Nigeria
Samsung Nigeria announced the next generation of groundbreaking foldable smartphones: Galaxy Z Flip4 and Galaxy Z Fold4. Both devices feature customizable form factors, tailored experiences, and upgraded performance.
Now in its fourth generation, Galaxy Z series continues to break from convention to deliver new, impactful interactions that enhance everyday life.
“Samsung Galaxy foldables are built on the foundation of our openness philosophy, enabling new possibilities with complete customization both inside and out. Created in collaboration with our world-class partners, the next foldable devices offer unparalleled mobile experiences that meet the needs of our most dynamic users,” said Charlie Lee, Managing Director, Samsung Nigeria.
“Through our unwavering focus and industry leadership, excitement for the foldables continues to grow. We’ve successfully transformed this category from a radical project to a mainstream device lineup enjoyed by millions worldwide.”
Galaxy Z Flip4, the Ultimate Self-expression Tool Inside and Out
The Galaxy Z Flip4 enhances our users’ favorite features, making it the ultimate tool for self-expression. Its compact clamshell design offers unique experiences not available on any other smartphone.
Shoot hands-free video or capture full group selfies at various angles by partially folding Z Flip4 to activate FlexCam. FlexCam is optimized for the most popular social platforms, including Instagram, WhatsApp and Facebook.
You can do more than ever with Z Flip4 taking high-quality selfies right from the Cover Screen by leveraging the main camera with the upgraded Quick Shot.
Seamlessly record high-quality video in Quick Shot mode then switch to Flex mode to continue recording hands-free without stopping the video – ideal for content creators and vloggers.
Users are now able to take selfies in Portrait Mode and see previews in actual photo ratio when using Quick Shot. With an upgraded camera powered by the Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 Mobile Platform, photos and videos are crisper and more stable – day or night.
Do more with Z Flip 4 without ever opening the phone; Make calls, reply to texts, unlock the car and even control the SmartThings Scene widget, all from the Cover Screen.
With the expanded 3,700 mAh battery and Super-Fast Charging, now supported on Z Flip4, charge up to 50 percent in around 30 minutes, keeping users connected when they’re running low.
Galaxy Z Fold4, a Multi-tasking Powerhouse with Ultimate Performance
The Galaxy Z Fold4 is our most powerful smartphone yet. It is the first device to ship with Android 12L, a special version of Android created by Google for large-screen experiences.
The new Taskbar provides a layout similar to your PC, offering access to your favorite and recent apps. Multitasking is also more intuitive allowing you to get more done on the move. With the new swipe gestures, instantly switch full-screen apps to pop-up windows or split your screen in half for more ways to multitask.
Samsung’s partnerships with Google and Microsoft take multitasking to the next level. Google apps, including Chrome and Gmail now support drag-and-drop, allowing users to quickly copy and paste links, photos and more from one app to another. With Google Meet, users can now connect with more people while enjoying virtual co-activities, including co-watching videos on YouTube or playing games together on a video call. Microsoft’s full Office suite and Outlook take advantage of the foldable display, providing more information on the screen and faster ways to interact with the content. The multitasking experience is complete with S Pen functionality, enabling on-the-go drawing and notetaking with streamlined storage inside the Standing Cover with Pen case.
Galaxy Z Fold4 takes stunning photos and videos with an upgraded 50MP wide lens and 30x Space Zoom lens. And with the larger pixel size, a 23 percent brighter sensor, and enhanced processing power, users can capture clear images even at night.
Popular social media apps like Facebook are optimized for the large-screen experience to make content more enjoyable. Or open your favorite streaming entertainment service apps like Netflix and watch hands-free with Flex mode. For non-optimized apps, users can even control the device without disrupting the content with the new Flex Mode Touchpad, offering accuracy while pausing, rewinding, and playing videos, or zooming in and out of content while the device is in Flex mode.
Games are snappier too thanks to the powerful Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 Mobile Platform and hyper-fast 5G. With a slimmer hinge, lighter weight, and even narrower bezels, the wider screen enables easier one-handed interactions while using the Cover Screen.
Samsung continues its barrier-defying innovation journey to deliver the level of durability consumers expect, both in and out. With our Armor Aluminum frames and hinge cover along with exclusive Corning Gorilla Glass Victus + on the Cover Screen and rear glass, Z Flip4 and Z Fold4 are our toughest foldables ever.
Durability of the Main Screen panel is also enhanced thanks to the optimized layer structure, helping to reduce damage from external shock. In addition, both Z Flip4 and Z Fold4 are equipped with IPX8 water resistance, so users can worry less if they get caught in the rain.
Galaxy Buds2 Pro, Premium Design with the Ultimate Listening Experience
Joining the Galaxy Z series are Galaxy Buds2 Pro – Samsung’s new top-of-the-line earbuds that provide the most immersive wireless audio experience with a new, compact design, and seamless connectivity that is perfect for any aspect of your everyday life.
Appreciate every musical interlude with superior Hi-Fi 24bit Audio, which offers high-dynamic range helping you feel connected to the content you’re listening to with crystal-clear resolution.
The new compact, ergonomic design is 15 percent smaller, with a secure fit that is engineered to prevent rotation, making it the perfect fitness companion. Take calls on-the-go with the powerful ANC to eliminate outside noise. Escape into your own world and simultaneously stay connected to your life.
Whether you are quickly transitioning from a lunchtime walk outside to join a meeting on your PC or gaming on your tablet and need to answer a phone call, Galaxy Buds2 Pro is the perfect companion to seamlessly connect with a touch of a finger.
The Galaxy Buds2 Pro now features TV Seamless Connection to provide an effortless transition from your earbuds to the TV to go from your favorite song to the show you are watching. Samsung seamless codec enables quality music transfer without a pause, and the new coaxial 2-way speaker makes those sounds richer than ever.
Galaxy Buds2 Pro are Samsung’s smallest and lightest earbuds from the Buds Pro series yet and come in three all-new soft and neutral hues – Graphite, White, and Bora Purple for a distinctive look.
Availability
The ZFlip4 would be available in Bora Purple, Blue, Graphite and Pink Gold with memory size of 8/256GB while the ZFold 4 would be available in Black, Beige and Gray Green with memory sizes of 12/256GB and 12/ 512 GB from the 9th of September,2022. The recommended retail price for the ZFold 4 is N1,055,000 for 12/256GB and 1,125,000 for 12/512GB.
Preorder
Customers can however pre order any of the devices using the link https://bit.ly/Fold4-Filp4-Preorder-NG from 10th to 24th of August to get Amazing Gifts.
Also, customers can get up to N80,000 discount on the Ecopackage Pre order which includes either Zflip4 or Fold 4, Buds2 Pro/Buds 2 and Watch 5 Pro/Watch 5.
Link to pre order: https://bit.ly/Fold4-Filp4-Preorder-NG
Telecom
Group Advocates for Digital Rights at 2024 Internet Governance Forum
Paradigm Initiative (PIN), a leading pan-African organisation dedicated to advancing digital rights and inclusion in the Global South, has made significant contributions to the just-concluded 2024 Internet Governance Forum (IGF) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
PIN’s participation in the prestigious global event underscores the organisation’s commitment to fostering inclusive digital policies and ensuring that Africa’s voices are central in global discussions about the future of the internet.
During the week-long forum, PIN team members played key roles in numerous sessions, emphasising the importance of a digital rights perspective in the development of emerging technologies, advocating for a more inclusive digital future, and addressing the specific challenges the African continent faces in terms of digital access and inclusion.
PIN Executive Director, ‘Gbenga Sesan, spoke at high-profile sessions, including the Leadership Panel on ‘The Internet We Want’, which outlined the vision for a global internet that is accessible, secure, and inclusive.
At the Africa Youth IGF Parley, ‘Gbenga provided a platform for young Africans to address pressing issues such as internet restrictions, the digital divide, and digital rights violations.
Adeboye Adegoke, Senior Manager for Grants and Programmes Strategy at Paradigm Initiative, contributed to Open Forum #12, advocating for policies that ensure a rights-respecting and inclusive digital future. His discussions highlighted the importance of policies that place human rights at the core of technological advancements.
Ihueze Nwobilor, Senior Programmes Officer, spoke at the session, ‘A Rights-Respecting Approach to Emerging Tech Development,’ where he called for the prioritisation of human rights in the development and deployment of emerging technologies across Africa and beyond.
The organisation’s Senior Manager for Partnerships and Engagements, Thobekile Matimbe, shared valuable insights during the ‘Better Products and Policies Through Stakeholder Engagement’ session.
She emphasized the role of the private sector in engaging with local communities to ensure that digital products and policies are inclusive and meet the needs of vulnerable groups across Africa.
Bridgette Ndlovu, PIN Partnerships and Engagements Officer, moderated a session on ‘Implementation of the USF in 26 African Countries,’ where she and other speakers, including ‘Gbenga Sesan, discussed the crucial role of Universal Service Funds (USF) in advancing digital inclusion, particularly in underserved and rural areas.
PIN’s participation at IGF 2024 has been an important moment for advocating digital rights in Africa. “Paradigm Initiative’s participation was a powerful reminder that Africa’s digital future must be shaped by inclusive, rights-respecting policies.
“Our participation at the IGF is a continuous demonstration of the need for all stakeholders to collaborate in building a more inclusive and accessible internet for everyone, especially those in under-served communities,” PIN Executive Director, ‘Gbenga Sesan stated.
Telecom
From Niche App to Global Giant: TikTok’s Controversial Journey
TikTok’s rise from a niche video-sharing app to a global social media giant has sparked controversies worldwide, with concerns over its links to China and its influence on users and politics.
In Albania, Prime Minister Edi Rama announced Saturday that TikTok would be banned for at least a year starting in 2025.
The decision follows a tragic incident in Tirana where a 14-year-old was killed and another injured in a fight stemming from an online confrontation. Rama described TikTok as the “thug of the neighborhood.”
In Romania, the European Union is investigating whether TikTok played a role in far-right candidate Calin Georgescu’s unexpected first-round presidential election victory.
The probe focuses on alleged Russian interference and claims of “preferential treatment” by TikTok. This marks the platform’s third EU investigation, potentially risking fines of up to six percent of its global revenue.
TikTok stated it has implemented “robust actions” to combat election misinformation, while Russia denies meddling.
In the United States, TikTok faces mounting pressure after the government passed a law in April requiring ByteDance, its Chinese parent company, to divest from the platform by January 2025.
The U.S. claims TikTok allows China access to American user data, a claim TikTok denies. ByteDance admitted its employees had accessed U.S. user data but insisted it does not share information with Chinese authorities.
TikTok could face a nationwide ban if ByteDance fails to comply, threatening its 170 million U.S. users.
Australia recently enacted a landmark law banning under-16s from accessing social media, including TikTok, with hefty fines of up to AU$50 million for noncompliance.
TikTok expressed disappointment, warning the law could push young users to less regulated parts of the internet.
In Europe, TikTok was forced to remove an engagement feature in its TikTok Lite version after EU regulators raised concerns about its addictive nature.
The feature rewarded users aged 18 and older with points redeemable for goods based on time spent on the app.
TikTok also faces criticism for its role in spreading hazardous challenges, some of which have reportedly led to child deaths, such as the blackout challenge.
Disinformation remains a significant issue, with a study by NewsGuard revealing that one-fifth of videos on topical subjects like the Russia-Ukraine war contained misleading or false information.
Despite these controversies, TikTok remains a dominant force in social media, attracting creators and influencers worldwide.
Its powerful algorithm and innovative features have secured its place at the forefront of digital engagement.
However, the platform continues to grapple with mounting scrutiny over its practices and societal impact.
TikTok’s meteoric rise has reshaped the social media landscape, cementing its status as a global powerhouse with over 1.04 billion monthly active users worldwide as of 2024.
This milestone, achieved in less than a decade, underscores TikTok’s unparalleled growth trajectory compared to platforms like Facebook and Instagram, which took significantly longer to reach similar heights.
In the United States alone, 170 million people actively use the app, contributing to its $16 billion U.S. revenue in 2023.
Globally, TikTok engages over a quarter of social media users and nearly one-fifth of internet users monthly, with U.S. adults spending an average of nearly an hour daily on the platform.
Its popularity is further evidenced by 137 million downloads in the first quarter of 2024.
Since its 2018 launch, TikTok has grown from 55 million users to over a billion, fueled by its dynamic algorithm and appeal across diverse demographics.
Telecom
NCC Holds Virtual Forum on A2P Licensing Framework
Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has hosted a virtual stakeholders’ forum to discuss the draft Application-to-Person (A2P) licensing framework.
The event, held on December 20, aimed to address challenges in the international A2P messaging space in Nigeria, including consumer protection, fraud prevention and industry fairness.
Dr. Aminu Maida, executive vice chairman (EVC)/ceo, Nigerian Communications Commission who was represented by Mrs. Chizua Whyte, Ag. Head, Legal and Regulatory Services of NCC, said A2P messaging plays a vital role in today’s digital world.
“A2P messaging drives efficiency, enhances communication and supports socio-economic development.
“It has become the go-to platform for businesses to send notifications, whether transactional, promotional or service-related, directly to consumers,” Whyte said.
She emphasized the importance of effective regulation, stressing that the NCC’s strategic focus is centered on three key stakeholders: the government, consumers and the industry.
Whyte noted that the proposed framework seeks to foster innovation, ensure fair and transparent operations and protect consumers.
“The NCC firmly believes that effective regulation stems from inclusivity and collaboration.
“This forum is an opportunity for all of us – operators, aggregators, businesses, service providers and consumers – to engage in meaningful discussions,” she said.
The commission presented the various feedbacks received as inputs into the A2P Licensing Framework and gave NCC’s responses to each of the observations and recommendations made by the licensees.
Mrs. Truddy Tony-Awusaku, Assistant Director at the Licensing and Authorisation Department of the NCC, presented an overview of the framework for international A2P messaging in Nigeria.
The NCC assured stakeholders that it would continue to engage internal and external stakeholders ahead of the final draft of the A2P Messaging Services Licensing Framework.
The commission invited stakeholders to provide feedback and recommendations to refine the framework and create a sustainable A2P messaging ecosystem.
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