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TCL Honored with Over 40 Awards and Accolades for 115-inch TV and Other Innovative Products Across Categories at CES 2024

Lahore, Pakistan, 18 January 2024 TCL Electronics, a leading consumer electronics brand and the world’s top two TV brand, presented its leading portfolio of innovative technologies across multiple categories at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES 2024), including the 115-inch QM891G; world’s largest QD-Mini LED TV and one of the industry’s first smart connected mobile device entertainment solutions.

At the 2023-2024 Global Top Brands Awards Ceremony (GTB), organized by Asia Digital Group and European Digital Group, TCL secured six accolades across various categories. The world’s largest 115-inch QM891G QD-Mini LED TV earned the “Innovative Display Technology Gold Award of the Year,” highlighting TCL’s prowess in LED TV display technology. This 115-inch QD-Mini LED TV, features over 20,000 local dimming zones and a peak brightness of 5,000 nits. The company also introduced the QM7 and QM8 QD-Mini LED models, showcasing advanced backlight and processing technologies. The NXTPAPER 14 Pro tablet and RayNeo X2 Lite AR Glasses received the “Eye Protection Display Technology Innovation Award” and “AR Glasses Innovation Award of the Year” respectively.

In addition to GTB recognition, TCL was named “2023-2024 Global CE Brands Top 10,” “2023-2024 Global TV Brands Top 10,” and “2023-2024 Global CE Brands Top 50.” The TCL 40 NXTPAPER smartphone also secured a CES 2024 Innovation Award in the “Mobile Devices, Accessories & Apps” category. As the world’s first and one of the smartphones optimized for human eyes.

TCL also presented an industry-leading smart connected mobile device entertainment solution, integrating smartphones, tablets, smart glasses, and more. The expanded tablet portfolio, 50 Series smartphones, and NXTPAPER 3.0 technology demonstrated TCL’s focus on better visual health and an enhanced digital viewing experience.

Technological advancements for smarter living were showcased in TCL’s innovations like the FreshIN 2.0 Air Conditioner, window air conditioner with Matter protocol, and Free Built-in Series refrigerators with molecular preservation technology. The Eco Care Washer & Dryer Combo and One-Stop Residential Smart Energy System emphasized TCL’s commitment to eco-friendly living.

As part of the global #TCLGreen campaign, TCL highlighted its recycling and reuse initiatives. The company’s partnership with the NFL and collaboration with NFL Hall of Famer Charles Woodson demonstrated its dedication to inspiring greatness through consistent global partnerships and ESG initiatives.

In total, TCL received over 34 awards from international media, including “Best of CES 2024” honors. With a focus on sustainability, innovation, and global collaboration, TCL Electronics continues to lead the way as a globally leading technology company.

Infinix Shines as the Most Innovative Mobile Phone Brand at CES 2024

(Left) Benjamin Jiang, CEO of Infinix, received the 2023-2024 Most Innovative Mobile Phone Brand Award (right) at CES 2024

Lahore, January 19, 2024 – Infinix, a trendy tech brand crafted for young consumers, was honoured with the prestigious “Most Innovative Mobile Phone Brand” at the 2023-2024 Global Top Brands Awards during the Consumer Electronics Show 2024 (CES), one of the world’s largest and most influential tech events in the consumer electronics industry. This esteemed accolade recognized Infinix’s exceptional contributions to mobile phone technology and its unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of innovation.

During the award ceremony, Benjamin Jiang, CEO of Infinix, emphasized the brand’s relentless dedication to innovation, stating, “Innovation is at the core of Infinix’s DNA. We consistently strive to meet the demands of today’s young consumers for innovation and practical solutions. Through collaborations with leading technology institutions and extensive research, our expert team has developed cutting-edge technologies that have brought us countless groundbreaking ideas.”

The Global Top Brands Award, established in 2006 by the International Data Group (IDG) and supported by the International Data Corporation (IDC), is a revered platform that recognizes industry advancements, fosters discussions, and offers valuable insights. Published annually through “CES Daily” and “TWICE,” it has firmly established itself as a leading authority in the consumer electronics sector. Guided by the theme of “Innovation Shaping a Digital Future”, this selection evaluates brands based on their industry popularity, global strategic layout, international market influence, and product innovation.

 

Infinix: A Rising Star in the Global Smartphone Market

Established in 2013, Infinix has rapidly gained popularity among young consumers worldwide. Its products are now available in over 70 countries and regions, including Africa, Latin America, the Middle East, South Asia, and Southeast Asia. According to IDC’s Worldwide Quarterly Mobile Phone Tracker, Infinix achieved the largest year-on-year growth in units among global smartphone brands in Q3 2023, securing a spot in the top 10 global smartphone brand rankings.

In recent years, Infinix has consistently surpassed expectations in the field of innovation, particularly in charging technologies. The introduction of the 180W Thunder Charge technology in the ZERO ULTRA smartphone made a remarkable impact in the industry. In 2023, Infinix unveiled its groundbreaking 260W wired and 110W wireless all-scenario fast charging technology, establishing itself as an industry leader in “All-Round FastCharge” solutions.

 

At Showstopper CES 2024, Infinix showcased three revolutionary technological breakthroughs:

 

  • Infinix E-Color Shift: The industry’s first customizable mobile phone back panel technology utilizing E Ink Prism™ 3 ePaper film material. This cutting-edge technology allows users to personalize their mobile phone panels and maintain vibrant colors without consuming power.

 

  • Infinix AirCharge: The industry’s first commercially viable magnetic resonance safe wireless charging technology. It enables users to charge their smart devices within a range of 0-20 centimeters without physical contact with charging pads, providing the freedom to use devices while charging.

 

  • Infinix Extreme-Temp Battery: The industry’s first battery technology capable of charging in extreme cold temperatures of -40 degrees Celsius. This groundbreaking innovation ensures normal battery operation and significantly improves charging speed even in extremely cold conditions.

Infinix’s recognition at CES 2024 cements its role as an industry leader in innovation, underscoring the brand’s multifaceted approach to exploring the potential of charging solutions in the realm of mobile technology.

For more information, please visit www.infinixmobility.com.

AI’s Spooky New Skill Copies Your Handwriting

AI Handwriting
Image Source: LinkedIn

In the infinite world of artificial intelligence, we’ve witnessed machines drafting letters, cracking jokes, and even offering legal advice, all in the realm of computerized text. Now, brace yourselves for the latest breakthrough: an AI that mimics human handwriting so convincingly that it might just make you question the authenticity of the written word.

AI can now copy your HANDWRITING - so, can you tell which of these was written by a robot? | Daily Mail Online
Source: Daily Mail

Developed by scientists at the Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI) in Abu Dhabi, the aptly named HWT (Handwriting Transformer) is rewriting the rules of what we thought AI could achieve. While previous attempts using generative adversarial networks (GANs) struggled to capture the intricacies of individual characters and ligatures, HWT employs vision transformers, a specialized type of neural network designed for computer vision tasks.

Human vs. AI Handwriting

In a recent study, participants were presented with samples of handwriting, with one column crafted by human hands and the other by HWT. The catch? They couldn’t tell which was which. If you guessed that the left column was AI-generated and the right column was human-written, you’re on the money. The AI’s ability to seamlessly imitate the handwriting styles of six different individuals astounded the participants, showcasing a level of realism unparalleled in the realm of AI-generated text.

Preferred 81% of the Time

What sets HWT apart from its predecessors? According to the study, when pitted against other handwriting generation technologies like GANwriting and Davis et al (2020), HWT emerged as the crowd favorite, securing an 81% preference rate among participants. The ‘handwriting’ produced by HWT not only looked more realistic but also left the human eye unable to distinguish between the genuine and the mimicked.

Meet Hemingway: The Artificial Intelligence Robot That Can Copy Your Handwriting
Source: Forbes

Vision Transformers Redefine AI Handwriting

While GANs struggled with the intricacies of character formation and ligatures, vision transformers demonstrated their prowess in understanding the nuanced connections within an image. By utilizing this innovative approach, HWT has taken a giant leap forward in the quest to replicate human handwriting with unprecedented accuracy.

As we marvel at this new frontier of AI capabilities, questions naturally arise regarding the potential misuse of such technology. With the ability to generate handwriting so realistic, concerns about fraud and the creation of fake documents are at the forefront. As AI continues to blur the lines between the artificial and the authentic, the challenges and ethical considerations accompanying these advancements become ever more pressing.

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for more.

Rising costs amidst global economic shifts is top concern for 58% of SMEs as they also face workforce challenges

Lahore – January 18, 2024 New research from ACCA (the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) highlights the pressing challenges and strategic innovation opportunities for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

The study, SMEs: Business challenges and strategic innovation opportunities, reveals three main challenges: escalating costs, workforce and talent management, and the evolving ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) reporting agenda.

The SME sector serves as the backbone of Pakistan’s economy, with over 5 million SMEs operating across the country in both formal and informal sectors, engaging in diverse activities from manufacturing and trade to services. Comprising about 90 percent of exclusive private businesses, the sector provides employment to 30 percent of the total workforce, contributing an estimated 40 percent to the annual GDP and 25 percent to the annual exports (with IT & ITES among major exports).

Head of ACCA Pakistan, Assad Hameed Khan, says “Despite playing a vital role in economic growth and poverty reduction, the SME sector faces numerous constraints that impede its optimal potential.

“Professional accountants are in a unique position to make real, impactful changes and be at the centre of sustainable development. Practising members can have a positive effect not only to their own businesses but also on the SME clients they support. From making business decisions to measuring environmental and social impact, the skills, judgment and approach of professional accountants play a vital part in this effort. Accountants’ rounded, data-informed, ethical approach, along with their breadth of view, means that they have a pivotal role,” he added.

The report emphasises the need for tailored strategies that can help SMEs navigate the evolving business landscape successfully, including embracing innovation, optimising resource management, and staying ahead of regulatory changes.

Key findings include:

Cost pressures and the economy: SMEs face significant increases in utility prices and supplies, with 58% of businesses highlighting higher costs as their top concern. A quarter of respondents said utility prices had surged by over 20%. This significant challenge underscores the need for effective cost management and innovative financial strategies.

Workforce and talent management: The study reveals a notable rise in job vacancies and challenges in filling specific roles. Increased job vacancies for professional workers were reported by 31% of businesses, and 14% were unable to find suitable candidates for clerical workers, technicians, and service and sales workers. This calls for a renewed focus on talent acquisition, skill development, and retention strategies.

SMEs and the ESG agenda: Nearly 50% of SMEs are now required to provide ESG information, highlighting the growing importance of sustainable practices. However, the report identifies a gap in the ability to generate and manage this data, presenting both a challenge and an opportunity for SMEs.

“In these testing times, SMEs must pivot towards innovative strategies to navigate the complexities of cost pressures, talent retention, and sustainable practices. Our research not only identifies the critical hurdles but also offers a roadmap for SMEs to emerge stronger and more agile,” Assad says.

The roadmap recommends the adoption of digital technologies, enabling SMEs to streamline operations, reduce costs, and enhance productivity. It also emphasises the importance of embracing sustainable practices, not only as a regulatory compliance measure but also as a strategic move to attract new business and customers.

It also encourages SMEs to develop and retain top talent through continuous learning and development opportunities.

In this rapidly evolving landscape, the role of accountants, especially those in small and medium-sized practices (SMPs) can be pivotal. Accountants are not just financial stewards but strategic advisers who can guide SMEs through complex challenges such as managing rising operational costs, navigating new regulatory requirements, and implementing effective ESG practices. Their expertise in financial management and strategic planning is crucial for SMEs to optimise resources, identify cost-saving opportunities, and ensure compliance with evolving regulations.

To access the full report please visit https://bit.ly/3NU1uKU

My Zong App and JoChaho Collaborate to Make Online Shopping in Pakistan Affordable

Islamabad, 19th January 2024: Zong 4G, Pakistan’s leading telecommunication operator has joined hands with JoChaho.pk to offer compelling discounts on online shopping through My Zong App and give users a chance to win exciting prizes through a lucky draw.

JoChaho.pk is an emerging e-commerce marketplace operating online in Pakistan, providing a wide range of products for users to shop. The product categories vary from electronic appliances to mobile accessories, gadgets, etc. MZA and JoChaho’s collaboration is an effort to provide users with the best discounts and to provide users with the chance to become JoChaho’s lucky draw winner.

MZA users can avail this offer by simply logging on to their app and clicking on the ‘JoChaho’ banner which will lead users directly to JoChaho’s landing page. After installing the JoChaho app and creating an account, MZA users can avail a flat 10% discount on all products (Valid only for MZA’s users). Furthermore, after the purchase, users will be able to enter JoChaho’s lucky draw. 15 Lucky Winners will be randomly selected, each of whom will get a chance to win exciting prizes like motorbikes, smartwatches, TVs, mobile phones, etc.

As Zong’s spoke person says: “Through this collaboration, My Zong App, wants to bring forth new offers for its users so that they can enjoy online shopping while ensuring ease of access and affordability. Users can now shop from a variety of products and get them delivered to their doorstep through the ‘JoChaho’ app. So, what are you waiting for? Log onto your MZA app today and enjoy this offer!”

Why Is Mohammad Rizwan Under Fire Despite His 90?

why-is-mohammad-rizwan-under-fire-despite-90

Mohammad Rizwan waged a lone war for Pakistan during the recently concluded fourth T20I against New Zealand, where his side posted 158/5 while batting first. New Zealand comfortably chased down the target in the 19th overs to extend their lead to 4-0 in the series.

Rizwan carried his bat through the innings, scoring 90 runs from 60 balls, laced with six fours and two sixes. However, he is facing heavy criticism on social media for his inferior strike-rate in terms of T20I cricket.

This makes a causal fan wonder why are fans trolling a player who top-scored as well as scored more than 50% of the team’s runs.

On a tricky pitch of Hagley Oval, Pakistan lost wickets at an alarming rate while Mohammad Rizwan played cautiously from the other end. However, at one point he played 26 consecutive balls without scoring a boundary, which slowed down the scoring rate.

Rizwan’s 90 came at a strike-rate of 142.85, which was third-best among Pakistan batters, however, the sample size of other batter is small to compare.

Mohammad Nawaz was the second-highest scorer with 21 off 9 at strike-rate of 233.33, while, Babar Azam’s strike-rate was 172.72, who scored 19 off 11.

But fans are criticizing Rizwan’s intent throughout the innings, calling his innings selfish despite the fact that he scored most runs.

Let us know what do you think in the comments, whether Rizwan was the culprit for Pakistan’s loss today or he somehow saved some grace amidst crumbling batting performance by others.

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates.

Hot 40 Pro Full Review | Brandsynario

Unleash the power with the Infinix Hot 40 Pro! Dive into the specs of this mighty smartphone featuring a 6nm Helio G99 chipset and a vibrant 6.78” LCD screen with Full HD+ resolution. Discover the seamless performance with up to 16GB Mega RAM and storage options of up to 256GB.

Old Samsung Phones That Will Get The New AI Feature

Source: Phone Arena

Samsung has just pulled back the curtain on their latest tech marvels, the Galaxy S24 series, and they’re not shy about flaunting their AI prowess. Dubbed Galaxy AI. This new addition promises to redefine user experiences, and the good news is. It’s not just reserved for the shiny new models. If you’re rocking an older Samsung device, brace yourself for an AI infusion.

Older Samsung Devices to Get a Taste of Galaxy AI

The chosen ones for this digital makeover include the Galaxy S23, Galaxy S23+, Galaxy S23 Ultra, Galaxy S23 FE, Galaxy Z Fold5, Galaxy Z Flip5, and the Galaxy Tab S9 series. If your device falls into any of these categories, you’re in luck. Samsung has promised to roll out the AI upgrades in the first half of the year.

Samsung Galaxy AI is coming to these older devices - GSMArena.com news
Source: GSM Arena

The Countdown to One UI 6.1 and Android 14

What does this mean for you? Well, expect your device to bid farewell to its current software and say hello to the latest Android 14, adorned with the sleek One UI 6.1. It’s a significant leap from the One UI 6 that other Samsung devices are currently rocking. The big question on everyone’s mind is: what AI features are we talking about?

Samsung is keeping some mystery in the mix. While they’ve assured users that “many” AI features will be making their way to these older devices. The specifics remain shrouded in secrecy. Will your phone gain the same intelligence as the new S24 series? It’s a possibility, but we’ll have to wait until the update lands to find out exactly which features are in and which are left out.

Some Samsung Galaxy AI features are coming to older phones - but there's a catch | ZDNET
Source: ZDNET

The Deadline: End of June

The deadline for this digital facelift? By the end of June, your trusty Samsung companion could be flaunting a smarter, more intuitive interface. So, if you’re eyeing those cutting-edge AI features, buckle up – the upgrade train is coming your way!

Xiaomi To Reign Supreme As The Champion Of Foldable Phones?

new flip phone coming by Xiaomi
Image Source: sammyfans.com

When Xiaomi was first released in Pakistan, it was considered quite to its affordability and its battery capacity. It was the first time that people had seen a smartphone with a 5000mah battery, letting the user run it past a day or two. This, coupled with the affordability, made Xiaomi phones quite the master of their domain. Fast forward to 2024, they have released quite a few examples in the market, including mid-range and flagship phones. The Xiaomi 12 is a force to be reckoned with!

That said, Xiaomi is expected to join the foldable phone lineup with a device called the Xiaomi Mix Flip. This is likely to be a clamshell foldable phone, marking a departure from their previous book-style foldable handsets. Yes, this is a new type of entry for the company and we believe it can make a major dent in the smartphone industry, especially among foldable phones.

flip phone by Xiaomi could be the best one
Image Source: mundoxiaomi.com

Xiaomi Releasing A Flip

While specific specs are not provided in the certification, rumors suggest the Xiaomi Mix Flip may feature a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor, potentially indicating an appealing price point. This means that the user is going to feel like they have a premium experience, alongside having an aesthetic looking smartphone. Despite the chipset being a generation old, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 is recognized as a powerful processor. It can easily be mistaken for a current gen processor due to its functionality and robustness.

Other rumors also hint at an impressive camera setup, including a triple rear-camera setting with a telephoto lens. This development is also a new one for Xiaomi as they seem to be experimenting quite a lot with this foldable release.

New flip mix phone to dwarf other foldable ones
Image Source: hoanghamobile.com

Seeing Big Development

Thus, as we can see, Xiaomi is working towards a phone with an impressive build, camera and a robust processor. It may have started as a smaller company, but it has certainly now grown into a titan, with exceptional smartphone releases. It can be seen competing with other giants of the industry, and this foldable smartphone release is another one of such examples.

We will bring more news to you regarding this mystery foldable phone as we come across them.

Stay tuned for more from Brandsynario!

Canada Set To Increase Recruitment Of Pakistani Workers

Canada and Pakistanis to work there
Image Source: canadaimmigration.news

It is always refreshing to see work-related opportunities open up for Pakistanis anywhere in the world. It gives us the chance to showcase our talent and skills on an international scale. Additionally, it gives a lot of people the spotlight to work on a higher pay and send money back to their loved ones at home. Recently, an informal agreement has been reached between Punjab and Canada to welcome additional workers. Yes, this means that Canada is accepting more workers to come and work in the country.

Caretaker Chief Minister Punjab Mohsin Naqvi and Canadian High Commissioner Leslie Scanlon met to finalize the understanding. This incentive gives a lot of room for growth to the people of Pakistan, allowing them to continue working for foreign countries for their families and their own credibility. People who have worked abroad get a higher credibility on skills and talent because it is not easy to be chosen to work abroad.

Pakistanis going to work in Canada soon
Image Source: canadaimmigration.news

Pakistanis in Canada

Caretaker CM Naqvi expressed optimism, anticipating job opportunities for Pakistani youth in Canada. The youth of Pakistan is already at a struggling point when it comes to job hunting and holding down employment, thus it can be a refreshing opportunity. The discussion extended beyond employment to include collaboration in environmental protection.

This means that Pakistanis will not only be working in the country, but they’ll be contributing to other projects as well. This also increases a person’s chance to have an extended work visa if their work is good and their earning is honest. A delegation from the Punjab government will visit Canada for the formal signing of the agreement in the coming weeks. This makes quite a lot of Pakistanis hopeful who have otherwise been struggling to meet ends here in the country.

working opps for people abroad from here
Image Source: brecorder.com

Appreciating The Good

We must always keep the good in perspective when looking at the state of the country. If we appreciate what is being done, we open doors for even more opportunities for Pakistanis. The people here are hard-working and they have the skills to prove it, they just need a platform to showcase themselves. This Canada program can be quite the fruitful opportunity for the people of Pakistan.

Stay tuned for more from Brandsynario!

Mehar Bano’s Dress Sparks Body Shaming Comments

Pakistani actress Mehar Bano, notorious for her bold dance moves, recently eased down on dancing for a change— only to be criticised for something new.

Taking to Instagram, the Churailz star did an outfit check in her new video, adorning a grey and red bodycon with spaghetti straps.

No dancing. Just Mehar Bano flaunting her curves with subtlety. However, it was just enough to spark new criticism on social media as netizens weren’t quite impressed with it.

Another went on to compare her to Indian actress Urfi Javed who’s popular for her unconventional outfits.

In a world where women are already being shamed for post-pregnancy body shaming, one  user took it to another level.

On the work front, Mehar Bano recently shared the official poster and teaser of her upcoming movie Taxali Gate set to hit cinema screens worldwide on 16th Feb 2024.

Mehar Bano will be sharing the screen with many prominent names from the entertainment industry including Ayesha Omar, Yasir Hussain, Umer Alam, Iffat Omar, Nayyer Ejaz, Alyy Khan and Khaled Anam among others.

Take a look!

What do you think of the controversy around Mehar Bano’s social media presence? Let us know in the comments!

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for latest news and updates.

Cricket Fans Call Saim Ayub ‘Overrated’

saim-ayub-shares-the-story-behind-no-look-shot-fab-four

Young Pakistani opening batter Saim Ayub has been the talk of the town since making his Test debut against Australia earlier this month. The 21-year-old replaced Imam-ul-Haq in the third Test in Sydney, where he faced both highs and lows in his debut match.

Saim Ayub bagged a duck in the first innings but showcased glimpses of his potential in the second innings. He played a promising innings of 33 runs from 53 balls with the help of three boundaries and one six before Nathan Lyon ended his entertaining knock.

In the subsequent T20I series, he was slated to open the innings with Mohammad Rizwan, slipping Babar Azam to one-down position.

Saim Ayub gave Pakistan a flying start in the first T20I, while chasing as he played a blistering 27-run knock in only eight balls.

His innings was laced with two boundaries and three sixes before he got run out. His brief yet entertaining knock came at an astonishing strike rate of 337.5.

However, he registered scores of 1 and 10 in next two games, followed by one run in today’s third T20I match. He played six balls and managed only one run before Matt Henry sent him packing.

Cricket fans on social media have now started questioning the young batter’s potential which he failed to show after two good innings.

Meanwhile, some fans have defended Saim Ayub and believes he should not be judged on the basis of few innings only.

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates.

Pakistani Cricketers Get NOCs For BPL, ILT20

pakistan-players-get-nocs-for-bpl-ilt20

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has issued no-objection certificates (NOCs) to national players participating in the upcoming franchise-based leagues, including the International League T20 (ILT20) and Bangladesh Premier League (BPL).

The local media reported cold war between team management and Pakistan players over the issuance of NOCs, however, now the dust has settled after PCB issued NOCs. The decision, aligned with the provisions of the players’ central contracts, reflects the PCB’s commitment to the best interests of all stakeholders as well as players.

Notably, a centrally contracted player can participate in only two franchise leagues, other than Pakistan Super League (PSL). Key Pakistani stars, such as Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, Mohammad Waseem Jr, Faheem Ashraf, and Usman Qadir, are set to showcase their talent in various BPL teams.

Additionally, ILT20 will feature players like Shaheen Afridi, Shadab Khan, Azam Khan, Mohammad Amir, and Imad Wasim.

Pakistan’s cricketers participating in the ongoing T20Is in New Zealand will join their respective leagues after the series concludes on January 21, 2024.

Sources suggest that NOCs for pacers Ihsanullah, Naseem Shah, and Mohammad Hasnain were withheld, considering the upcoming Pakistan Super League (PSL) and the T20 World Cup. Meanwhile, players like Saim Ayub, Fakhar Zaman, Mohammad Haris, and Iftikhar Ahmed face a temporary hold on their NOCs due to their participation in two leagues since July 2023.

Players with existing contracts in ILT20 are exempt from the central contract requirements, given their pre-existing commitments with the franchises.

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates.

Salaam Takaful Empowers Farmers through a Strategic Partnership with National Foods

Salaam Takaful Limited and National Foods recently signed an MoU to commence a strategic partnership to provide Parametric-based Crop Takaful coverage to farmers. Under this partnership, a pilot project will be conducted in Sindh region, that provides comprehensive weather-related risk coverage for tomato farmers.

Speaking about the partnership, Mr. Rizwan Hussain, Managing Director & CEO of Salaam Takaful Limited, stated, “We are excited to join forces with National Foods. By combining our expertise, we aim to provide farmers with comprehensive and accessible Islamic insurance coverage, safeguarding their livelihoods and enabling sustainable growth in the agricultural sector. This is in line with our vision of creating a robust ecosystem to make farmers resilient against climate change under UNSDGs 2, 3, 8, 11, 13 and 17”

Mr. Abrar Hasan, CEO of National Foods, expressed his enthusiasm, saying, “Through this pioneering initiative, National Foods aims to bolster the resilience and prosperity of our farming communities. This partnership will not only safeguard the livelihoods of individual farmers but also enhance the stability and sustainability of the entire agricultural value chain.”

Previously, Salaam Takaful has created strategic alliances, including a flagship project with Syngenta Pakistan, supporting wheat and maize farmers in multiple regions, and a pioneering partnership with Jazz Cash for nationwide Islamic insurance solutions for farmers. Salaam Takaful is also in the process of integrating parametric solutions into Digitt Plus’ platform, has extended coverage to potato farmers with Fauji Fresh n Freeze in Okara and Multan, and collaborated with Hamara Kissan Pvt Ltd for sunflower growers in Sindh. Further partnerships with Digital Dera and Concave Agri enhanced weather risk coverage, while participation in the InsuResilience Global Partnership underscores Salaam Takaful’s commitment to sustainable insurance solutions.

Salaam Takaful, a leading takaful operator, is revolutionizing agricultural insurance with its Parametric Crop Takaful, ensuring farmers’ financial security through trigger-based automatic claim payouts. Collaborating with stakeholders across the agricultural value chain, Salaam Takaful actively contributes to financial inclusion and resilience among farmers.

For more info, visit: https://www.salaamtakaful.com/

 

To Buy A Brand New Xiaomi 12 Or A Used Samsung S21?

Samsung and Xiaomi phones comparison
Image Source: gadgetmatch.com

Purchasing a smartphone can often be quite a complicated decision, since we are keeping multiple things into perspective. We have to make sure that most of the things on our smartphone checklist are selected before getting one. That said, if there was an option to select between a brand new Xiaomi 12 or a used Samsung S21, which one should you go for? Both phones are robust in their own capacities but it is possible you might go for one over the other.

The Xiaomi 12 is a flagship phone that had quite a lot of impressive specifications. It has 8GB and 12GB ram options alongside 128GB and 256GB storage options. Powered by a Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 processor, it is quite the beast in the market. It is considered as a Xiaomi flagship and a lot of people might want to go for it. However, we are here to tell you that if this smartphone is put in comparison of a used Samsung S21, we recommend you to buy the Samsung!

samsung s21 over the new Xiaomi 12
Image Source: megabits.com

Purchasing The Samsung Instead

Yes, you might be wondering why to purchase an older generation Samsung instead of the new smartphone? Firstly, Samsung promises the same experience to every user. This means that even if you go and buy a used Samsung, you will find it working in a good quality. The company promises long term usage and you can always expect the phones to give you a long life.

Even if the previous owner of the smartphone may not have kept it with utmost care, the phone itself is quite durable and robust. Against the Xiaomi 12, the Samsung S21 can hold its ground well, despite being two generations old. Additionally, Samsung will still support updates on the device, thus there is no need for any sort of worry.

better to get a used flagship than a new one
Image Source: news.samsung.com

Go For Quality Over Aesthetics

That being said, while the Xiaomi 12 itself is not any less of a beast, we would recommend Samsung because of the high credibility on quality. Xiaomi has had its fair share of adverse reviews on quite a lot of smartphones, thus we would recommend it more for the mid-range or the budget range.

Additionally, the Samsung S21 will even cost you less than the Xiaomi 12 and is guaranteed to give you absolute premium experience. The Xiaomi 12 might not give you the same experience as the next user of the same phone model due to some inconsistency issues.

Stay tuned for more from Brandsynario!

70cc Bikes – Affordable Commute Getting Expensive

There was a time when you could buy a brand new Honda CD70 in less than Rs.50,000/- and it would last you for a long time. You could drive that bike through the roughest of terrains and through the rainy monsoon of Karachi, and it would run strong as ever. However, now the same bike is priced at more than Rs.100,000/- for brand new.

bikes and increasing price of them
Image Source: youtube.com

Are Bikes Getting Expensive?

According to recent news, it seems that some bike companies have increased the price of their motorcycles by more than Rs.18,000/-. For many people, the motorcycle is an affordable transport that does not give them a hefty charge on fuel. Additionally, it is a quick way to get around the city, albeit one without much safety. To increase the price of a commercial motorcycle means that it is getting expensive for everyone.

What if people are not able to afford motorcycles because of this? What if they have been saving for a while and seeing this breaks their spirit. This shows that every vehicle owner, from the motorcycle to the sedan or the SUV, is facing adversity in one way or another. A lot of people have dreams of owning their own vehicle, especially a motorcycle and they treat it with utmost care. The economy is making it harder for the public to follow their dreams, to live a comfortable commuting life.

70cc bikes and a higher price for all of them
Image Source: autoones.com

The Bikes Are Getting Out Of Reach

Students often feel quite happy when they make their parents proud with their own first vehicle purchase. This price increase also means that people who are selling used motorcycles will also be selling them at a higher rate. Thus, this decision is causing a major impact on the industry in the long and short run.

Stay tuned for more from Brandsynario!

Sania Mirza’s Cryptic Post Sparks Marriage Speculations

In 2022, rumors of Sania Mirza’s and Shoaib Malik’s divorce stirred up social media, and almost after two years, the rumors still haven’t taken a rest.

Sania garnered significant interest with a recent Instagram post, contemplating the complexities of marriage and divorce, underlining the significance of making careful decisions in these matters. The tennis star took to social media to re-share a cryptic post that read

“Marriage is hard, divorce is harder. Choose your hard. Obesity is hard, and being fit is hard. Choose your hard. Being financially disciplined is hard. Choose your hard. Communication is hard. Not communicating is hard. Choose your hard. Life will never be easy. It will always be hard. But we can choose our hard. Pick wisely.”

Read More: Zara Noor Abbas Loses Cool Over Latest Indian Film’s Trailer

Image source: Instagram

The widespread circulation of the post on various social media platforms has captured the attention of online users, leading them to question whether the content is simply a repost or if there might be a concealed or underlying message embedded within the post. The intrigue surrounding the nature of the post has stirred discussions and speculation among netizens.

Read More: Durefishan’s Fans Ask Furqan Qureshi to Stop Being Jealous

Despite ongoing rumors about Sania and Shoaib Malik’s potential separation, the couple recently celebrated a joyful moment as they shared their son Izhaan’s success in a swimming competition. Pictures from the event were posted on Izhaan’s Instagram account, overseen by Sania.

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates.

Pakistanis Criticize Iqrar ul Hassan On His 18th Anniversary

Iqrar Ul Hassan recently celebrated his wedding anniversary and there was nothing conventional about it. After his third marriage went viral with a TV anchor, Hassan recently received a wedding anniversary surprise for his wedding with his first wife and the internet is surprised and curious at the same time.

Iqrar Ul Hassan who has been married to Annie for 18 years recently celebrated the wedding anniversary planned and executed by his son and his third wife. Getting a surprise from his son is one thing. However, the internet is going bonkers on the involvement of his third wife.

A video posted by the anchor on his Instagram featured the couple entering the room decorated in tones of red and black. While presenting flowers to his wife the couple went ahead with cutting their anniversary cake.

Read More: Durefishan’s Fans Ask Furqan Qureshi to Stop Being Jealous

While it is obvious that fans weren’t surprised by the anniversary celebration. But the fact that his third wife arranged the plan for his first one.

Critics and netizens were in the same boat as they wondered what goes on in the family and how they are so weirdly comfortable with the whole scenario.

The comments section was bombarded with comments as netizens criticized the anchor for not being faithful to his first or even his second wife.

Here’s what they have to say about the anniversary celebrations.

Image source: Instagram
Image source: Instagram

What are your thoughts on the family dynamics of Iqrar Ul Hassan and his wives? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.

Read More: Zara Noor Abbas Loses Cool Over Latest Indian Film’s Trailer

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates.

WhatsApp Channels More Useful Than Before?

Source: Meta

The popular messaging platform is set to launch polls for channels on Android, bringing a fresh interactive twist to group conversations. The feature, currently available in the beta version (2.24.2.11), allows selected testers to create polls within channels, mirroring the functionality already present in individual and group chats.

Spot the Green Icon

If you’re one of the lucky Android beta users, keep an eye out for the green polls icon that appears next to the paperclip icon in channel chats. This nifty addition lets users pose questions with up to 12 options, fostering a more engaging and inclusive environment within group discussions. What’s intriguing is the departure from WhatsApp’s signature yellow, as the polls icon takes on a vibrant green hue, signaling its distinct functionality.

WhatsApp Channels Become More Useful Than Before - Gizchina.com
Source: Gizchina

Privacy-conscious users can breathe easy, as the fundamental premise of WhatsApp polls remains intact – votes are anonymous. So, whether you’re choosing between pizza toppings or planning weekend activities, your preferences stay confidential.

Beta Testing

While the polls feature is not guaranteed for every beta tester, its inclusion suggests a potential broader release in the future. Android beta users can anticipate the green polls icon appearing in their chats, heralding the arrival of this exciting functionality. However, the specific timeline for the feature’s universal rollout remains unclear as it undergoes initial testing.

In line with the polls introduction, another beta release (version 2.24.2.12) addresses a bug, restoring the display of status update thumbnails next to contact names for Android users. These continuous improvements, coupled with ongoing beta trials for enhanced text formatting and themes on Android, paint a picture of an active phase for WhatsApp in early 2024. The messaging giant appears dedicated to keeping users in the loop and delivering anticipated updates that enhance the overall user experience.

WhatsApp Channels' upcoming polling feature is starting to take shape - F1TYM1
Source: FYTMI

As we navigate the evolving landscape of messaging apps, WhatsApp’s commitment to innovation and user engagement remains steadfast. So, keep your eyes peeled for that green polls icon – your group chats are about to get a whole lot more interactive!

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for more.

Things AI Can Detect That Has Left Humans Speechless

Source: Keymakr

In the rapidly progressing field of artificial intelligence, there are moments that transcend the ordinary and propel us into a reality where the future unfolds before our eyes. There have been a collection of awe-inspiring experiences that left all of us utterly speechless, each revealing the astonishing capabilities of AI.

The profound insight captures the essence of the rapid strides AI has taken. Progress once measured in decades is now compressed into mere months, and what took months is now unfolding in days. The acceleration is nothing short of mind-boggling, setting the stage for the extraordinary moments that follow.

1. Detecting Smell

AI Designed with a “Sense of Smell” To Detect Illnesses from Human Breath | Evolving Science
Source: Science Evolution

Guess what? AI is now learning to smell! In a cool study, 22 teams of computer whizzes cooked up algorithms that can predict the smell of different molecules based on their chemical makeup. First, they nailed the detection and identification of chemicals in the air. Then, they taught machines, specifically gas-chromatography mass-spectrometers (GC-MS), to sniff out volatile molecules and recreate the smell. These smart machines analyzed the air and uncovered thousands of molecules called volatile organic compounds.

It’s not just about machines thinking like humans anymore; it’s about machines getting human-like sniffing skills. Now, these AI sniffers are making waves in health by potentially diagnosing illnesses from human breath. Imagine that! Labs worldwide are experimenting with GC-MS as a non-invasive diagnostic tool to identify various illnesses, painlessly and quickly. The only hiccup? Sorting through tons of data, which can be a real headache. But hey, it’s a small price to pay for machines with noses!

2. Artificial Emotion Intelligence

Ever wondered how Artificial Emotion Intelligence works? Well, brands are onto something big here. They’re shelling out bucks for market research to get the lowdown on how consumers feel about their content. Take Affectiva, for example. They use a webcam to track your smirks, smiles, frowns, and furrows – basically, your emotional expressions that spill the beans on whether you’re surprised, amused, or scratching your head in confusion.

But it doesn’t stop there; this clever tech also taps into your heart rate without making you wear any funky sensors. How? By keeping an eye on color changes in your face that sync with each heartbeat. Affectiva turned this wizardry into a cloud-based solution that rocks “facial coding” and emotion recognition software. So, if a brand or media company wants to peek into your emotional rollercoaster, all they need are some regular folks with webcams and an internet connection.

3. Klick Labs AI for Type 2 Diabetes Detection

Klick Labs’ breakthrough in using AI and voice technology for Type 2 diabetes detection is nothing short of astonishing. The ability to screen for diabetes through a smartphone and voice recordings opens the door to non-invasive and efficient medical diagnostics, showcasing the transformative potential of AI in healthcare.

Klick claims it can diagnose diabetes in seconds with voice technology | BioWorld
Source: BIOworld

4. AI can detect brain signals

Artificial intelligence (A.I.) is now diving into the wild world of our thoughts and turning them into speech. An article in Nature spills the beans on this mind-blowing discovery, where A.I. is decoding brain signals to create actual speech. There’s even an audio recording so you can hear the magic for yourself. This breakthrough isn’t just about giving a voice to those who can’t speak; it goes deeper. The study delves into the mechanics of speech, decoding brain waves and reconstructing neural impulses.

Surprisingly, A.I. managed to pull off identifying words about 70% of the time by tapping into the early stages of thought development. It’s like A.I. cracked the code of pre-speech! But hold on, the A.I. adventures don’t stop there. In another mind-boggling study, A.I. teamed up with functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to visualize what we see by reading neural output. The result? A computer screen displaying reconstructed images that even us casual observers could recognize as the real deal. A.I. isn’t just speaking our language; it’s getting the hang of our visions too!

5. AI detects gunshot

Imagine this: a school camera with the superpower to spot a gun and instantly alert school leaders and law enforcement. Omnilert, a security company, flexed its muscles with an Artificial Intelligence Gun Detection software, demonstrating its ability to give schools a heads-up in real-time. During a live test, a security expert strolled around with a dummy gun, and like magic, the AI spotted it, turning the school’s cameras into proactive lifesavers. It even aced the test by differentiating between the guy’s phone and the fake firearm. Dr. Matt Vosberg, the Superintendent, emphasized the importance of every second, highlighting that quick alerts could make all the difference in safeguarding students and staff. With the Omnilert app, users get an instant picture of the potential threat, including their location, the weapon they’re carrying, and if they’re donning body armor. Safety just got a serious upgrade!

In this collection of AI moments, it gives us a chance to reflect on the profound impact of artificial intelligence across diverse domains, from music composition and visual creation to healthcare, assistive technology, and military applications. Each revelation is a testament to the accelerating pace of progress and the transformative power of AI in shaping our future.

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for more.