TechPression

Category: Mobile

  • YouTube simplifies content discovery with ‘Play Something’ button

    YouTube simplifies content discovery with ‘Play Something’ button

    YouTube is set to enhance user experience on its mobile app by introducing a new feature called “Play Something.” This feature, which aims to streamline video discovery by allowing users to play suggested content with a tap, was announced on Friday.

    A new way to discover content

    Read also: YouTube expands AI auto-dubbing feature to knowledge-sharing creators

    On Android devices, the “Play Something” button will appear as a floating action button (FAB) in the lower right corner of the YouTube app interface. When tapped, it plays a video tailored to the user’s viewing preferences, which may include both YouTube Shorts and regular videos.

    This feature is designed to reduce users’ time scrolling through endless options, making it easier to find engaging content quickly.

    When the app is opened, the “Play Something” button replaces the minimized video player. If a user has an active minimized player, the button becomes inaccessible.

    This design choice ensures that users can focus on enjoying their selected video without distractions.

    The video player will display in portrait orientation. On the right side of the screen, buttons for liking, disliking, commenting, and sharing will be located, similar to the layout used for YouTube Shorts.

    Read also: YouTube on your TV? Airtel Nigeria teams up with Google to convert analogue TVs into smart screens

    Background and development

    The “Play Something” feature concept has been in development for over a year. Its first public appearance was noted in May 2023 when a Reddit user spotted it.

    Since then, YouTube has refined the functionality, leading to its current iteration in version 19.50 of the Android app. The feature’s introduction aligns with YouTube’s ongoing efforts to enhance user engagement by simplifying how viewers discover new videos.

    YouTube’s founder, Steve Chen, and co-founders Chad Hurley and Jawed Karim revolutionized how people consume video content online when they launched the platform in 2005.

    Their vision of making video sharing accessible has evolved into a multi-faceted service that continues to innovate with features like “Play Something.” This new addition reflects YouTube’s commitment to adapting to user needs and preferences in an increasingly competitive streaming environment.

    As users navigate countless videos daily, features like “Play Something” are essential for maintaining engagement and satisfaction. By offering personalized recommendations at the touch of a button, YouTube aims to recreate an old-school discovery experience reminiscent of earlier internet browsing days—where users could stumble upon unexpected gems rather than be overwhelmed by choices.

    The “Play Something” feature is being tested and unavailable to all users. However, those with access report that it significantly enhances their viewing experience by providing instant access to the content they will likely enjoy based on their previous interactions with the platform.

    This innovative approach not only keeps viewers engaged but also reinforces YouTube’s position as a leader in digital video.

  • X prioritises quality content over ad views in new revenue-sharing strategy for creators

    X prioritises quality content over ad views in new revenue-sharing strategy for creators

    Elon Musk’s social media platform, X, announced a significant price hike for its Premium Plus subscription tier on December 21, 2024. 

    The monthly fee increased from $16 to $22, marking a nearly 40 percent rise. This adjustment aims to enhance creator payouts and align with a new revenue-sharing model that rewards content quality and engagement rather than just ad views.

    Read also: Like X, Bluesky introduces trending topics feature to boost user engagement

    A shift in monetisation strategy

    The Premium Plus plan offers features like ad-free browsing and access to Grok AI. This change is part of Musk’s broader strategy to incentivise creators and encourage diverse content on the platform.

    Existing subscribers will retain their current rates until January 20, 2025, after which they will transition to the new pricing.

    Musk’s vision for X has always been ambitious. He aims to create a more vibrant ecosystem for creators by shifting focus from traditional advertising to user engagement.

    “We are committed to ensuring that our creators are rewarded for their contributions,” Musk stated in a post in January 2024. 

    This reflects a growing social media trend where platforms increasingly rely on subscription models to fund creator payments.

    Read also: Elon Musk’s xAI lands $6 billion in Series C funding

    Global impact of price increase

    The price adjustments are not uniform across different regions. For instance, users in Nigeria will see their monthly subscription surge by over 365cpercent, from N7,300 (approximately $9.50) to N34,000 (around $44), while Turkish users will face an increase from ₺300 (about $11) to ₺770 (approximately $29). Such drastic changes highlight the varying economic landscapes and user bases across countries.

    This pricing strategy has sparked mixed reactions among users. 

    Some express concern about the service’s affordability, especially during the holiday season when many are budgeting for gifts and celebrations. “It feels like a holiday slap in the face,” remarked one user in response to the announcement.

    Others see the potential benefits of enhanced features and improved creator compensation as justifying the increase.

    Musk’s approach at X continues to evolve as he seeks to redefine how social media platforms operate. By prioritising creator engagement and monetisation through subscriptions, he aims to foster a more sustainable environment for content creation.

  • Apple expands into home security: Facial recognition smart locks, doorbells in development

    Apple expands into home security: Facial recognition smart locks, doorbells in development

    Apple is reportedly developing smart home locks with facial recognition technology, aiming to enter the home devices market. 

    Apple is reportedly venturing into the smart home devices market, with plans to introduce facial recognition technology in smart locks and doorbells.

    This initiative, announced in a Boomerang report on December 22, 2024, positions Apple to compete with established players like Google’s Nest and Amazon’s Ring in the home security sector.

    Read also: Apple faces legal scrutiny over alleged complicity in Congo’s human rights abuses

    Smart lock and doorbell features

    According to a Bloomberg report, Apple’s new smart lock and doorbell system will allow users to unlock their doors by scanning their faces. This technology is still in the early stages, with a potential release date set for late 2025 at the earliest.

    The doorbell might be sold as a complete package in partnership with specific lock manufacturers, or the doorbell could be compatible with existing third-party locks. 

    Expanding Apple’s home device ecosystem

    This development aligns with Apple’s growing interest in smart home technology. Recently, Bloomberg reported that Apple is also working on an AI-powered wall-mounted tablet that could function as an intercom and control various home appliances. Additionally, the company is exploring home robots. However, these projects might never see the light of day, as seen with Apple’s recent decision to scrap its car project and halt efforts on a subscription model for the iPhone.

    Introducing smart locks and doorbells could allow Apple to cross-sell existing products like the iPhone and Apple Watch, enhancing the overall user experience within its ecosystem.

    Privacy considerations

    Apple’s strong commitment to user privacy is a key advantage in this market. The company has built a reputation for prioritising customer data protection, which could make consumers more comfortable adopting its smart home devices. This focus on privacy contrasts with competitors facing scrutiny over their handling of user data and law enforcement requests.

    For instance, Amazon’s Ring has been criticised for allowing police departments to access video footage without homeowner consent. In contrast, Apple CEO Tim Cook has publicly refused to unlock iPhones for government investigations, reinforcing the company’s stance on privacy.

    Read also: Apple offers $1 million prize to anyone who can hack its intelligence servers

    Future developments in smart home security

    In addition to the smart lock and doorbell, Apple is reportedly developing an in-home security camera designed to rival similar products from Google and Amazon. This camera is expected to integrate seamlessly with Apple’s rumoured smart home hub, managing connected devices throughout the household. Introducing such security cameras could drive subscriptions to iCloud services, where video footage from these devices would be stored.

    Apple’s entry into smart-home locks and security devices represents a strategic expansion into a competitive market. By leveraging its commitment to privacy and integrating these products into its ecosystem, Apple aims to enhance user convenience while addressing security and data protection concerns in smart home technology.

    As these developments unfold, they are likely to reshape the landscape of home security solutions in the coming years.

  • Samsung S25 series: 256GB base storage, ultra-slim variant and AI power

    Samsung S25 series: 256GB base storage, ultra-slim variant and AI power

    Samsung appears to have had a change of heart with their latest flagship lineup, the Galaxy S25 series. Addressing one of the major criticisms of the S24, Samsung is finally fixing the storage inadequacy that has been a sore point for users.

    Galaxy S25 Series: Enhanced performance with faster UFS 4.0 storage

    The Galaxy S25 will start with a minimum of 256GB, ditching the outdated 128GB option. This upgrade doubles the storage and enhances performance by adopting the faster UFS 4.0 standard over the previously used UFS 3.1 in the 128GB models.

    Read also: Introducing the Samsung Galaxy S24 FE: A feature-rich Smartphone for every fan

    All models in the S25 series are set to feature 12GB of RAM as standard, with the Ultra variant offering an option for 16GB RAM in higher storage configurations. This ensures that even the base model of the S25 can handle complex AI features onboard, bolstering its future-proofing.

    Galaxy S25 Series release date: What to expect from Samsung’s unpacked event

    The much-anticipated Galaxy Unpacked event, where the S25 series will be unveiled, is scheduled for January 22nd. According to South Korean media reports, fans eager to receive the new devices must wait until February 7th for deliveries to start.

    The buzz around the S25 lineup also includes a new model, informally dubbed the “S25 Slim.” This variant is incredibly thin, measuring between 6 and 7 mm, potentially making it one of the slimmest flagship phones on the market.

    However, with such a slim profile, battery life is a concern. Samsung hopes not to follow in Apple’s footsteps with a significantly reduced battery, ideally aiming for at least 4,500mAh to compensate for the thin design.

    Read also: Why Redmi 13 is a perfect buy for smartphone users on a budget

    Samsung Galaxy S25 production: Will the S25 Slim be a limited edition model?

    The S25 Slim will see a relatively low production run of just 3 million units, indicating Samsung might be testing consumer response before possibly scaling up production based on demand.

    Interestingly, leaks regarding the Galaxy F16, a budget offering from Samsung, have shown a camera design that might inspire future S-series models. If adopted for the S26, this design could set a new trend. The S25 lineup will debut with One UI 7, introducing new features that significantly enhance user experience.

  • Like X, Bluesky introduces trending topics feature to boost user engagement

    Like X, Bluesky introduces trending topics feature to boost user engagement

    Bluesky, the social media platform co-founded by former Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey, introduced a highly anticipated Trending Topics feature on Wednesday.

    This new addition aims to enhance user engagement by allowing individuals to discover popular discussions and posts within the community.

    Read also: What’s new on Bluesky’s latest update?

    Enhancing user experience

    The Trending Topics feature is currently in beta and is accessible on both mobile and desktop versions of Bluesky. Users can find trending topics by clicking the search icon, which reveals a curated list of popular ones. 

    Notable topics at the launch included “Christmas,” “Nosferatu,” and “Wikipedia,” showcasing a mix of cultural references and current events.

    “This is v1, and we will be iterating with your feedback,” Bluesky stated, emphasising their commitment to refining the feature based on user input.

    Users can customise their experience by muting specific words or phrases, ensuring unwanted content does not appear in their trending feed. 

    If users wish to stop seeing trending topics altogether, they can easily disable this feature in the settings menu.

    Read also: Threads expand with scheduled posting

    Competing in a crowded market

    Bluesky’s introduction of trending topics comes as it seeks to compete with established platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Meta’s Threads, both of which have offered similar features for years. 

    Since its inception, Bluesky has rapidly gained traction, amassing over 25 million users—many of whom migrated from other platforms following the recent U.S. elections.

    The timing of this rollout aligns with a growing demand for social media spaces that prioritise user control and engagement without the noise often associated with larger platforms.

    As Bluesky continues to develop its features, it aims to provide an environment that feels more personal and less cluttered than its competitors.

  • Telegram surpasses $1 billion in revenue, achieves profitability for the first time in 11 years

    Telegram surpasses $1 billion in revenue, achieves profitability for the first time in 11 years

    Pavel Durov, the founder of Telegram, on Monday announced that the messaging platform has achieved profitability for the first time since its launch in 2013.

    This milestone comes after Telegram’s revenue surpassed $1 billion for the year, driven by its premium subscription service and advertising revenue.

    Durov noted that the company now has over 12 million paid users and over $500 million in cash reserves, excluding cryptocurrency assets.

    Read also: Uganda lifts ban on Facebook after three years

    Growth and monetisation strategies

    Telegram has implemented various monetisation strategies to reach this point. In 2022, the introduction of a premium subscription allowed users to access additional features for $4.99 per month. 

    Durov emphasised that these efforts demonstrate that social media platforms can achieve financial sustainability while respecting user rights. He stated, “This is a testament to our commitment to remain independent and user-centric”.

    The platform has also launched ad revenue sharing for content creators and business-level subscriptions, enhancing its appeal to a broader audience.

    Telegram is popular, but its moderating material rules are being examined more closely. People who oppose the platform say it has been used to spread false information and hate speech.

    Durov has previously defended Telegram against such claims, asserting that it is not an “anarchic paradise” but a space for free expression.

    Read also: Order on WhatsApp with Ubuy: a new way to shop across borders

    Challenges ahead

    While celebrating this achievement, Durov acknowledged ongoing challenges. 

    Telegram has issued about $2 billion in debt over the past four years and has recently repaid a significant portion of it. 

    He remarked, “There’s a lot of work ahead,” indicating that while profitability is a significant step forward, it does not mark the end of Telegram’s journey.

    Durov’s leadership has not been without controversy; he was arrested in France in August 2024 amid allegations related to content on the platform. 

    After paying bail, he is still figuring out how to run a global message service while regulators keep looking closely.

    However, his goal for Telegram is to retain user privacy and free expression while making a profit.

  • Uganda lifts ban on Facebook after three years

    Uganda lifts ban on Facebook after three years

    Uganda on Monday lifted restrictions on Facebook, after three agonising years for entrepreneurs who have struggled to leverage the social media platform’s ad tools to reach their target market.

    The ban was initially imposed in 2021 after Facebook blocked accounts linked to the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), leading to widespread economic hardship among entrepreneurs heavily reliant on the platform to advertise their products and services.

    Read also: Order on WhatsApp with Ubuy: a new way to shop across borders

    Impact on entrepreneurs

    Emmanuel Emodek, founder of Chap Chap, emphasised that the ban severely limited innovation and customer engagement opportunities. 

    In a recent statement reported by New Vision, Jane Nalubega, a local entrepreneur, expressed, “We are not just asking for Facebook to be unblocked; we are fighting for our livelihoods,” said Jane Nalubega, a local entrepreneur in Nakawa market. She also runs an online business that has shrunk by 70 per cent since the ban. “We urge the government to reconsider its stance and recognise the critical role Facebook plays in our economic survival.”

    With over 2.7 million users in Uganda, Facebook is essential for reaching customers and boosting sales, especially for small businesses.

    Dr Chris Baryomunsi, Uganda’s Minister for ICT and National Guidance, confirmed that discussions with Facebook were underway to restore access. He acknowledged social media’s significant role in economic activities and youth employment. 

    Prime Minister Robinah Nabanja emphasised Uganda’s youth’s creative potential, noting that their talents could ease the burden on government job creation efforts.

    Read also: Uganda’s KaFresh lands investment to extend shelf life of produce without refrigeration

    Looking ahead: Economic opportunities unlocked

    The government’s decision to reconsider the ban reflects a growing recognition of the importance of the digital economy. 

    Aminah Zawedde, permanent secretary for the Ministry of ICT, noted that youth unemployment remains a pressing concern, with about 30 percent of young people seeking better job opportunities. 

    Lifting the Facebook ban could support entrepreneurs and contribute to broader economic recovery.

    As Uganda prepares to reintegrate Facebook, many hope it will boost businesses and foster innovation in a country rich in talent and creativity.

  • X hikes Premium+ monthly subscription fee to N34,000 in Nigeria

    X hikes Premium+ monthly subscription fee to N34,000 in Nigeria

    On December 21, 2024, Elon Musk’s social media platform, X (formerly Twitter), announced a significant price increase for its Premium+ subscription in Nigeria. 

    The monthly fee jumped by 51 per cent, from N22,550 to N34,000. This change is one of the highest increases seen globally.

    Read also: Clash of the giants: Meta, Apple battle over privacy, interoperability in Europe

    Reasons for the price increase

    X explained that the price hike is due to several new features added to the Premium+ service. Subscribers will now enjoy an ad-free browsing experience without interruptions. 

    They will also get priority support and access to new features like Radar and advanced Grok AI models. X stated, “Your Premium+ subscription fee contributes to this new, more equitable system where creator earnings are tied to the overall value they bring X, not impressions of ads.”

    This shift is significant for Nigerian creators dependent on X’s monetisation program. While some users see the benefits of these new features, many are unhappy about the higher costs, especially given Nigeria’s economic challenges. For comparison, users in other countries like the U.S. and Canada saw smaller increases of 37.5 per cent and 45 per cent, respectively.

    Read also: Apple offers $1 million prize to anyone who can hack its intelligence servers

    User reactions and market impact

    The price change has led to mixed feelings among Nigerian users. Some appreciate the added features and improvements, but others feel the new price is too high. The annual subscription for Premium+ now costs N354,000, which adds to the financial burden on subscribers.

    As X continues to grow under Musk’s leadership, this price increase marks an essential step in its strategy to enhance user experience while supporting content creators. 

    The company’s focus on investing in innovative features shows its commitment to keeping subscribers engaged despite rising costs.

  • Major leap: Nokia & Turkcell secure network with quantum tech

    Major leap: Nokia & Turkcell secure network with quantum tech

    Nokia and Turkcell announced a groundbreaking achievement in mobile network security by demonstrating quantum-safe IPsec cryptography. 

    Quantum-safe IPsec cryptography protects data communications from quantum computing threats by enhancing traditional IPsec with post-quantum cryptographic methods, ensuring robust security against advanced quantum attacks.

    This collaboration, announced December 20 Friday,  marks a significant advancement in protecting mobile communications against the potential threats posed by quantum computing.

    Read also: Google’s VEO 2 simplifies video editing for content creators, outperforms Open AI’s Sora 

    A new era in network security

    As quantum computing technology advances, conventional encryption methods encounter vulnerabilities that could jeopardise sensitive data.

    To address this risk, Nokia and Turkcell have integrated quantum-safe cryptography into Turkcell’s mobile transport network.

    This implementation employs Nokia’s IPsec Security Gateway to encrypt data packets at the network layer, thereby protecting communications for millions of subscribers.

    Prof. Dr. Vehbi Çağrı Güngör, Turkcell’s Chief Network Technologies Officer, emphasised the importance of this initiative: “This test represents a significant milestone in the evolution of our network security…this collaboration with Nokia provides us with the confidence that our transport security can withstand the challenges of the quantum era”.

    This reflects a wider industry recognition of the need for improved security measures in our increasingly digital world.

    Read also: Apple faces legal scrutiny over alleged complicity in Congo’s human rights abuses

    Future-proofing mobile communications

    The successful demonstration not only sets a new benchmark for network security but also reassures users about the safety of their mobile communications. 

    Rafael De Fermin, Nokia’s Senior Vice President of Network Infrastructure Europe, stated, “Through our collaboration with Turkcell, we’ve shown how our quantum-safe IPsec technology can protect mobile networks against the evolving security threat landscape”.

    This proactive approach helps both companies prepare for future challenges rather than just react to current threats.

    This development has broader implications, serving as a template for the telecom industry to adopt quantum-resistant measures.

    Nokia and Turkcell set an example for others by emphasising the need for collaboration among industry leaders to address evolving cybersecurity challenges.

  • Introducing the itel S25 Ultra: A budget-friendly powerhouse

    Introducing the itel S25 Ultra: A budget-friendly powerhouse

    The itel S25 Ultra, released on November 9th, 2024, is the latest addition to its lineup of budget-friendly smartphones, designed to provide excellent functionality and features at an affordable price.

    With a focus on catering to everyday users, the S25 Ultra combines modern aesthetics, reliable performance, and practical capabilities, making it an appealing choice for those seeking value without compromising quality.

    Read also: LG bids farewell to Blu-ray players, CDs product as consumers shift to streaming platforms

    itel S25 Ultra design and display

    The itel S25 Ultra boasts a sleek and compact design that is stylish and ergonomic. Its lightweight body ensures comfortable handling, while the durable plastic back cover enhances its resistance to daily wear and tear. The device is available in vibrant colours and appeals to users prioritising aesthetics and functionality.

    The phone features a 6.78-inch HD+ display with a 1080 x 2436 pixels resolution, offering a decent viewing experience for videos, social media, and casual gaming.

    Performance and storage

    Under the hood, the itel S25 Ultra is powered by a Unisoc T620 processor with 8GB of RAM. This configuration is sufficient for handling basic tasks such as web browsing, messaging, and light app usage.

    The device has storage options of 128GB, 256GB, or 512GB, providing ample space for photos, videos, and apps.

    Camera capabilities of the itel S25 Ultra

    The itel S25 Ultra features a 50MP rear camera, allowing for decent photography in well-lit conditions.

    On the front, the device sports a 32MP selfie camera with AI enhancements for improved facial recognition and beautification.

    Battery life, software and connectivity

    One of the standout features of the itel S25 Ultra is its 5000mAh battery, which provides impressive longevity. Users can expect a full day of moderate usage, including social media browsing, calls, and video playback, without recharge. The device supports 18W fast charging, ensuring reliable power replenishment.

    The itel S25 Ultra runs on Android 12, ensuring smooth performance and efficient use of resources. The user interface is clean and intuitive, with pre-installed apps tailored for lightweight operation.

    The device supports 4G LTE connectivity, ensuring reliable internet speeds for browsing and streaming.

    Read also: Apple’s iOS 18.2 gets a ChatGPT upgrade

    Pricing and availability of the itel S25 Ultra

    The itel S25 Ultra is positioned as a budget-friendly smartphone, with prices varying by region. In the Philippines, it starts at PHP 7,999 (approximately $136) for the 8GB RAM and 256GB storage variant. In Nigeria, it is available for around ₦260,400 (approximately $150).

    The itel S25 Ultra balances affordability and functionality, offering essential features in a compact and stylish package. While it may not cater to power users or those seeking cutting-edge technology, it excels as a reliable and cost-effective smartphone for everyday use. With its impressive battery life, decent camera capabilities, and user-friendly interface, the S25 Ultra is a worthy contender in the budget smartphone market.

    For anyone looking for a dependable device without breaking the bank, the itel S25 Ultra is a solid choice.

    This review might be helpful for a more in-depth look at the itel S25 Ultra.