TechPression

Category: Reviews

  • OpenAI introduces ChatGPT, Whisper APIs

    OpenAI introduces ChatGPT, Whisper APIs

    OpenAI has announced that, through the recently introduced Whisper API, it is now enabling third-party developers to include ChatGPT in their products and services. Using this tool will be far less expensive than using its current language models.

    The company released the open-source Whisper speech-to-text model in September 2022. The Whisper API is a hosted version of that model. According to OpenAI, Whisper is an artificial speech recognition system that costs $0.006 per minute and enables large-scale transcription in a number of languages. It accepts files in a variety of formats, including M4A, MP3, MP4, MPEG, MPGA, WAV, and WEBM.

    Whisper appears to be exceptional thanks to training on 680,000 hours of multilingual and “multitask” data gathered from the web, despite competitor tech companies like Google, Amazon, and Meta having created high-quality speech recognition algorithms. Greg Brockman, the president and chairman of OpenAI, claims that this gives it improved recognition capabilities, such as the ability to recognize unusual accents, background noise, and technical jargon.

    According to Brockman, the developer ecosystem did not actually build around the model we released. “The Whisper API is the same huge model that is available as open source, but we’ve optimized it to the maximum degree.” It’s incredibly convenient and much, much faster.

    Read also: 12 Ways ChatGPT Can Make Your Business Operations Easier

    Brockman viewpoint 

    Regarding Brockman’s remark, businesses have restrictions when using voice transcription technology. The main obstacles to adopting tech like tech-to-speech are accuracy, accent- or dialect-related recognition issues, and costs, according to a 2020 Statista survey.

    One of Whisper’s limitations is “next-word prediction.” This is due to the system’s extensive data training. However, OpenAI warns that Whisper may contain non-said words in its transcriptions, possibly because it is simultaneously attempting to predict the next spoken word and transcribe the audio recording.

    In addition, Whisper’s performance varies by language, with speakers of less-represented languages in the training set having a higher mistake rate.

    According to a 2020 Stanford study, Amazon, Apple, Google, IBM, and Microsoft’s systems generated 19% fewer errors with white users than black ones.

    OpenAI’s Whisper API strategy

    OpenAI anticipates enhancing existing software, services, tools, and solutions with Whisper’s transcription capabilities. The Whisper API is currently used by the AI-powered language learning app Speak to offer a brand-new virtual speaking partner within the app.

    In addition, OpenAI’s entry into the speech-to-text business could be quite lucrative. The potential market value is projected to reach $5.4 billion by 2026, up from $2.2 billion in 2021.

    Brockman stated, “Our vision is to become an all-encompassing intellect.” “We want to be able to very flexibly accept whatever type of data you have and whatever type of work you’re attempting to complete in order to multiply your focus.”

  • 5 internet virus prevention tips for 2023

    5 internet virus prevention tips for 2023

    AV-Test Institute, an impartial IT security company, estimates that there will be over 1.2 billion malware pieces online in 2023. The organization discovers 450,000 new viruses and possibly dangerous apps daily. Scammers and hackers use such apps to steal funds and personal information or use your online identity. These virus prevention tips can prevent you from being a victim

    By studying this OctaFX guide’s information about malware and how to avoid it, you can safeguard yourself.

    Read also: Cybercrime Ravages Cryptocurrencies

    Types of malware 

    There are more than a billion different varieties of malware on the internet, but there are a few that everyone should be aware of. These consist of:

    Ransomware

    The access to your computer or the data saved on it is blocked by this kind of virus until a ransom is paid. In most cases, the data is encrypted, so any attempts to get around the blockage could result in the complete loss of the data. However, there is no assurance that once the ransom is paid, the hackers will unlock the data or that you will get the right decryption key.

    Spyware

    Without the consumers’ knowledge or consent, this spyware gathers user data. Keystroke logging is a common method used by spyware programs to attempt to obtain login credentials and payment information.

    Adware

    This program resembles spyware in certain ways. It collects data on your web activity, interests, friends, and the places you live or travels to, but it has no intention of stealing your credentials. It then sells this “profile” to advertisers. Adware occasionally downloads or shows you ads without your knowledge.

    Trojan

    Trojans are often disguised as pirated games, apps, programs, and services. A Trojan takes over the system and damages or steals data.

    Worm

    This harmful application will exploit program and operating system vulnerabilities to infiltrate networks. It will steal critical data, execute DDoS and ransomware operations, and duplicate itself on other network systems.

    Virus

    Viruses can steal personal data and conduct cyberattacks like worms. A virus cannot operate or infect other computers on the network unless the host program is running.

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    Malware/virus prevention tips for 2023

    You shouldn’t install any of the above malicious apps. Besides stealing your data and hurting your device, malware may infect other machines on the network. If it’s the work network, it might cause a massive data leak, harming your organization and clients. OctaFX offers five online security guidelines to avoid malware:

    Implement antiviral software

    Your computer’s chance of downloading and operating malware will be significantly decreased by installing antivirus software. Check everything you download from untrusted sources, including USB drives, for viruses.

    Use only legal apps and software

    These free files could include unwelcome extras like viruses and Trojans that can seriously damage your computer and steal your personal information.

    Avoid suspicious emails

    Avoid downloading and opening files from unfamiliar email addresses. Even though the file names seem harmless, email attachments may contain viruses.

    Update your software as needed

    They typically have significant security updates that make it more difficult for malware to take advantage of their flaws.

    Make a data backup


    This makes it possible to recover your data even if a malicious program blocks your computer and encrypts it.

    Every day, cybercriminals create thousands of new malware programs. While the aforementioned recommendations may not provide perfect protection against malware, they will considerably minimize your chances of becoming infected in the first place.

     

  • 5 dating apps for Valentine’s Day

    5 dating apps for Valentine’s Day

    Welcome to February and a reminder of Valentine’s Day. It’s that time of year when love is shown in small but meaningful ways, such as buying gifts, saying lovely things, or taking someone on a luxurious vacation.

    February brings feelings, compassion, gestures, and the chance to be a better companion to your spouse, a friend to your friends, and a kid to your parents.

    Valentine’s Day was originally a Christian feast honouring Saint Valentine, a love martyr, but it has now become a global cultural and commercial celebration of passion.

    Therefore, it is anticipated in modern times that you will choose someone on whom to shower all of your love and spoils. If someone has the same opinion of you, that is.

    We’re here to help if you need it because we don’t want you to be overwhelmed by all Valentine’s Day-related advertisements you’ll see. If you don’t have someone yet, don’t be disheartened; there is still time.

    Read also: 10 Best Bitcoin Wallets in Nigeria (Updated 2022)

    Here is the list of 5 dating apps that can spice up your Valentine’s Day

    So, just in time for Valentine’s Day, we’ve carefully chosen a few apps that can help you find love. Our analysis indicates that there is a possibility that one of these five applications will introduce you to someone who shares your interests and could serve as the start of your love journey.

    Facebook dating 

    Facebook dating

    Facebook continues to be a site that many people underuse despite it being extremely popular and appearing to be overrun by numerous forces and organizations. This is a result of the platform’s general marketplace for everyone and everything.

    By creating a strong profile on the platform, you increase your chances of meeting someone who matches your area, interests, and even your requirements. The website has also made it simpler for individuals to find true love.

    You can send messages and likes to people you’re interested in using the Facebook dating feature. If they like you back, your profiles will match, and you can then start chatting. Just setting up a dating profile and adhering to community standards is all that is needed.

    In addition to the Facebook dating function, there are other simple ways to find love on the site, such as by joining various groups and pages dedicated to dating, relationships, and love.

    In fact, a young Nigerian woman recently admitted that over 70% of her relationships began in the Facebook groups she belongs to, which are being used as a dating service for singles.

    Consequently, Facebook Dating might assist you in finding a partner for Valentine’s Day or perhaps something more. I would urge you to try one of the many groups on the site instead if you are not at ease with creating a dating profile so you can connect while you are on the go.

     

    Tinder 

    Tinder Dating

    One of the most well-liked dating apps, both locally and globally is Tinder. One misunderstanding regarding the app is that it’s only about hookups and pointless sex, but this is untrue.

    With only a swipe of their photos left or right and a compelling profile, the app has the ability to put you in touch with anyone, anywhere. 

    The founder of TextGod met his wife on Tinder in 2019, which is an excellent illustration of how the app may lead to a long-lasting relationship (true story).

    To make it easier for you, one of the fastest methods to get someone interested in you on Tinder is by being very active, looking great in your images (mainly singles), and discussing your interests.

    Tinder can help you find love. It’s possible to meet via Tinder, although few do. Sometimes Tinder is merely a way to meet like-minded folks.

    It is the most downloaded dating app in the world, according to Statista. Tinder had 67 million downloads in 2021.

     

    Olosho App

    Olosho Dating

    If you’re single and looking for the ideal partner, whether the woman of your dreams, the guy of your dreams, new pals, or the love of your life perhaps for Valentine’s Day and beyond, Olosho is a great website for you, according to reviews from many applications.

    Olosho is a free, quick, and practical messenger that allows you to send free text messages to single men and women, as well as share your photos and pick images from a gallery with other singles.

    Nigerian apps are easy to use and connect with nearby people. Thus, you must find chatters who look at your profiles, occasionally remark, and start conversations.

     

    Badoo 

    Badoo Dating

    Modern dating app Badoo, which was established in 2006, aims to improve and streamline the dating process. It encourages a community of people who are upfront about their objectives and behave correctly toward everyone, allowing everyone to enjoy the best features of dating.

    The app’s users can meet people thanks to a number of services offered by Badoo. When users sign up, they can specify whether they want to chat, date, or just make friends with new people. Users can search for friends they have in common, match with others, speak, upload photos and videos, and trade hobbies.

    But since you’re gazing at Valentine, you might want to hurry up the platform chat before you’re mistaken for a friend. The platform allows 50 daily “likes.” You can message anyone who “likes” you. They’re your “matches.”

    When someone likes you, their photo will be blurred, so you won’t know who it is. Only their hometown will be known. In the chat dropdown box, hit All Connections to display your likes. 

    Badoo has around 318 million users, with 41% between 25 and 35 as of 2022. Between now and the 14th of this month, you’re more likely to meet someone.

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    Bumble 

    Bumble Dating app

    In a dating app called Bumble, users can “swipe left” to reject a candidate or “swipe right” to express interest in other users after seeing their profiles as potential matches. The software levels the playing field and changes conventional dating procedures by having women initiate contact.

    Bumble was founded at the beginning to challenge antiquated dating conventions. Users can now interact with others through online dating, networking, or friendship, thanks to Bumble.

    This app’s distinctiveness is further highlighted by the many features it offers, which also enable it to function as a career portal. Expanding your network on Bumble Bizz might lead to professional opportunities where you can pursue a career move, meet team members, or take on a mentor role.

    Bumble doesn’t simply match you with someone who shares your interests; it also gives you a chance at meaningful friendships beyond Valentine’s Day. 

    Bumble had 42 million monthly users in January 2021, second only to Tinder. 46.2% of its users are women, according to a June 2016 poll.

    You can register by validating your profile. Photo verification on Bumble lets potential matches know they’re swiping on the genuine article. Add badges to your profile, create a brief bio, utilize Profile Prompts to spice things up, and integrate your Instagram and Spotify accounts to access some of your contacts there. You’re good.

  • Instagram’s Founders Launch News-Based App, Artifact

    Instagram’s Founders Launch News-Based App, Artifact

    Instagram’s duo founders have launched a new news-focused app called Artifact, four years after giving up ownership of their previous social media app.

    Kevin Systrom and Mike Krieger, on Tuesday, January 31st, announced the unveiling of Artifact, an app that is powered by artificial intelligence and offers a personalised news feed for its users.

    Instagram co-founders, Mike Krieger and Kevin Systrom, launch Artifact App | Techpression
    From left to Right: Instagram co-founders Mike Krieger and Kevin Systrom at the 2019 SXSW Conference and Festivals. Chris Saucedo/Getty Images

    Systrom had explained on Twitter that people who want to sample Artifact would need an invitation, although they may presently sign up on a waitlist.

    Krieger had also disclosed on his Instagram page that he and Systrom “have been working with a talented team” for no less than a year to launch the service.

    According to him, “we’re gradually letting people in as we scale up,” while also hinting about the waitlist to join.

    According to a CNET report, the advent of Artifact demonstrates how AI is increasingly influencing how people consume material, particularly news, on social media platforms. TikTok, a popular short-form video app, employs an algorithm to display users’ films that they might be interested in on their “For You” page.

    Read also: Russia Plans to Launch “Rossgram” After Restrictions from Meta’s App

    Casey Newton of Platformer, who interviewed Systrom about Artifact, described it as a “sort of TikTok for text, though you could also call it Google Reader resurrected as a mobile app or even a surprise attack on Twitter.”

    However, Systrom informed Newton that the news-based app had additional features, such as a stream of news pieces shared by people you follow, which includes their comments on the article. It also allows users to communicate with friends about current events via private direct messages.

    This Is How Artifact Works

    The news-based app is more concerned with articles than with photographs or videos.

    Users are asked to choose 10 or more topics to tailor their news stream when they sign up. The app, like TikTok, offers a “For You” page and counts how much of an article a user has read. If a user begins reading more interior design stories, for example, the app’s “For You” page displays more of those types of content. The app also contains a “Headlines” section that highlights recent news articles.

    This means users of Artifact get a feed of handpicked news pieces from notable media companies down to minor bloggers. Once a user clicks on an article, the app will show related articles as it learns more about the user’s reading habits.

    According to Platformer, which was the first to disclose the launch, the app will propose content based on interests and allow for debate with friends. A user’s feed will become increasingly tailored based on what they click on, while a main feed will display popular content from huge media companies down to minor bloggers.

    Read also: Instagram to introduce “Gifts” and “Repost” features

    Systrom And Krieger: From Instagram To Artifact

    Kevin Systrom and Mike Krieger founded Instagram in October 2010 and later sold the photo-sharing app to Facebook for $1 billion in 2012. After less than a decade at the Facebook-owned company, the entrepreneurs quit in September 2018.

    The business partners stated publicly that they were excited to rediscover their “creativity and curiosity.” However, rumours surfaced that there were difficulties between the co-founders and CEO Mark Zuckerberg. Since their departure, the duo has also developed a website to track the spread of COVID-19 in 2020.

    Now in 2023, with the launch of Artifact, they are fully back to take a piece of the pie in the social media world. 

    Let’s keep fingers crossed to see how well the app will perform in the coming months.

  • Apple unveils faster Mac Mini and MacBook Pro versions

    Apple unveils faster Mac Mini and MacBook Pro versions

    Apple’s most recent products include faster iterations of the Mac mini desktop and its premium MacBook Pro laptops.

    The 14-inch and 16-inch Macs that have just been released are comparable to the ones that were first introduced in 2021. Though the M1 Pro and M1 Max processors have been replaced by the newer, more potent M2 Pro and M2 Max chips, they are still there. They will support a product line that contributed $40.2 billion to the tech giant’s sales last year or more than 10% of it.

    Apple is developing new MacBook Air models, including a 15-inch variant. The company’s high-end Mac Pro desktop computer will use a variant of the M2 processor in its latest models.

    The new notebooks represent Apple’s first expansion of the M2 chip, which debuted last year in the MacBook Air and a lower-end MacBook Pro.

    Read also: Apple’s Nightware helps users with nightmares-induced insomnia

    New Apple features


    Mac minis were last updated in 2020. The previous version looked the same. In the 13-inch MacBook Pro and MacBook Air, the M2 chip is in the Mac Mini. This chip is in the M2 Pro.

    Apple didn’t upgrade its specs with the M1 Pro and M1 Pro Max until late 2021. The MacBook Air and 13-inch MacBook Pro introduced the M2 chip in June 2022, followed by the iPad Pro. It debuts on the desktop.

    New 12-core computers

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    Apple’s move away from Intel Corp. CPUs in Macs continues with the latest chips’ performance enhancements. The M2 Pro has 12 primary processor cores, up from 10.

    The business discontinued marketing a premium Mac mini with a non-Apple processor. The Mac Pro desktop is now the sole Intel device in Apple’s lineup. The Mac Mini is the most recent Apple product to get the M2 chip upgrade, and this time it also includes the company’s CPU in its Pro configuration.

    Apple has never before included pro-level processors in the Mini. The MacBook Air’s M1 processor was the only one available for purchase in the past with the Mini. This time, it includes an Apple chip series that is more powerful. 

    From a previous high of 16, the graphics capabilities will increase to up to 19 cores. The M2 Max increases graphics performance by doubling the number of cores from the previous maximum of 32 to as many as 38.

    Battery and Storage

    Apple is also boosting the capacity of its devices. Additionally, the maximum amount of RAM on laptops with the most modern M2 Max chip has been increased to 96 gigabytes. Both had a previous limit of 32 gigabytes. The maximum storage capacity remains unchanged at 8 terabytes.

    Standard Mac Mini configuration includes an M2 CPU, 8 GB of RAM, and 256 GB of storage space. In addition to two USB-A ports and two Thunderbolt 4 (USB-C) connections, which is an improvement over the previous model’s Thunderbolt 3 connectors, it contains an HDMI port, Gigabit Ethernet, and a standard headphone jack. 

    The M2 Pro option of the new Mac Mini includes 16GB of RAM, 512GB of SSD storage, and two additional Thunderbolt 4 connectors in addition to the basic M2 model’s ports. 

    The 14-inch model now has an 18-hour battery life, up from 17 hours, and the 16-inch model now has a 22-hour battery life, up from 21 hours.

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    New Prices

    The upgraded 14-inch MacBook Pro is priced at $1999 (N1,479,2660) at the current exchange rate of N740, while the 16-inch model is still $2499 (N740) (N1,849,260).

    The price of the Mac mini is $599, $100 less than the previous model. Apple stated that all of the new Macs would start shipping on January 24.

    Apple’s last year’s plans for the new MacBook Pros and Mac minis included the anticipation that they would be on sale in the first quarter of 2023. The delay is anticipated to have an impact on Apple’s most recent quarterly earnings, as the company had initially planned to release the new machines in 2022.

    Apple will release its Christmas sales data on February 2; the company cautioned investors that the absence of a MacBook Pro update might hurt those figures.
    In addition to these latest developments, the company had previously said that it would deliver VR headsets this year and touch-screen Macs in the coming years, maybe as early as 2025. It’s expected to compete with touchscreen competitors.

  • Nigeria Computer Society reviews year 2022, assures best services in 2023

    Nigeria Computer Society reviews year 2022, assures best services in 2023

    President of The Nigeria Computer Society (NCS), Professor Adesina Sodiya, has assured that the umbrella body of all IT Professionals and Practitioners with over 15,000 memberships will continue to serve the interest of all and the nation in the IT ecosystem.

    Prof. Sodiya said this while speaking during a press conference on Nigeria Computer Society 2022 Strategic Review and 2023 IT Outlook recently at the Society’s Secretariat, Alausa, Lagos.

    According to him, NCS has remained relevant in promoting IT developmental Values and steadfast in the pursuit of its goals and vision.

    He gave the 2022 Programmes of NCS and their contributions to national development
    Activities of the Society as; Cybersecurity Forum and Workshop; Artificial Intelligence and Data Science for Smart; Business Management; International Conference 2022; Tech-Innovation Development Programme; IT Whizkids Competition; National Information Technology Merit Awards 2022; NCS – Nigeria Computer Society NITMA 2022.

    Read also: Zebra Unveils Mobile Computer In Africa To Support Digitization

    Major achievements of Nigeria Computer Society in 2022

    The NSC president also gave some of the society’s major achievements as:

    Improved Recognition and Good Governance where he said NCS members are serving in many government committees which has improved the relationship with the ministry and effective engagement with the government.

    “NCS was appointed as a member of presidential committee on digital economy and e-government.

    “NCS is represented on startup bill. We are also represented on NIMC governing board”, he said.

    Inclusive Growth and Collaboration is another major accomplishments for an all inclusive and robust society, according to the President which the society has achieved through continued collaboration with various organisations like Bluechip Technologies; Federal Inland Revenue; Zinox Technologies, Military, State Government etc., in all the Society’s activities.

    “We engaged individuals and organisations that are practicing IT and the membership of NCS has massively increased through these interactions.” He said.

    Another major achievement of NSC is Enhanced programmes/activities, which included the 1st Bootcamp of the Technology Innovation Development Programme (TIDP) of innovators engaged in ways of improving their products for national use. This programme’s major sponsor is Mr Leo-Stan Ekeh. Also, the 2022 Nigeria Computer Society – Jim Ovia scholarship for 35 students comprising 20 undergraduates, 10 masters and 5 Doctorate was conducted; a yearly scholarship funded by Mr Jim Ovia through the Jim Ovia Foundation.

    According to the NSC president, The 2022 Calendar of activities was prepared and released in November 2021 for advanced planning and necessary budgetary provisions by both individual members and corporate bodies. The activities and programmes were carefully structured to expose members to modern skills and development in the field of Information Technology.

    International Partnership was also a milestone the NSC reached as the president described the relationship with international organisations like IFIP, British Computer Society, Oracle, and Cisco, as waxing stronger.

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  • Samsung’s Flex Hybrid pushes foldable phone

    Samsung’s Flex Hybrid pushes foldable phone

    How about a tablet that can fold in half and be used as a phone? Samsung claims the screen can slide out to give you even more visual space. The Flex Hybrid concept Samsung is showcasing at CES 2023 will likely remain more of a concept than a practical product for some time due to a number of practical issues.

    Flex Hybrid is a “smart mobile device” prototype. It’s the first one we’ve seen that combines two sorts of unique screen tech: folding displays, which we already know and mainly adore in phones like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4, and newer “slidable” panels that Samsung has been showing at trade events for the past year.

    Like the Fold series, the Flex Hybrid’s left side unfolds. If you want a larger screen, you can expand it from a 10.5-inch 4:3 display to a 12.4-inch 16:10 display by pulling out the right side.

    Read also: Samsung Unveils Foldables Galaxy Series

    The Flex Hybrid is a do-it-all mobile gadget, which is something we could only imagine a few years ago. But there’s reason to think we’ll need to keep daydreaming about it for a little longer.

    Samsung hasn’t divulged the display’s specs or which items would employ the technology, so the idea is definitely still in the early stages. At CES 2022, Samsung demonstrated its Flex G and S screens, which could fold twice in two directions but are not yet consumer-ready.

    Solo and Duet Flex Slidable

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    Samsung would certainly need to improve its display technology before combining them in a multipurpose tablet. Samsung will show two 17-inch laptop sliders at CES 2023.

    The Flex Slidable Solo can grow in one direction, and the Flex Slidable Duet can stretch in both directions to produce a 17.3-inch display from a 13–14-inch tablet for gaming or watching movies.

    Folding is still refined. The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4’s crease is still visible and can be felt when you run your finger across the screen, but we love it. Before Samsung launches sliding foldables, this might be improved.

    In the current economic scenario, most tech lovers can’t justify buying foldable. For instance, the Galaxy Z Fold 4 costs $1,799, £1,649, or AU$2,499. However interesting, adding a sliding component to the display will raise the price.

    Given foldables’ durability concerns and Android tablet apps’ existing limits, a Flex Hybrid won’t be a viable product for years. We’ll try to find one at CES 2023 if it exists, and we’ll be first in line to try it.

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  • Samsung Galaxy S2, 46 other phones won’t access WhatsApp in 2023

    Samsung Galaxy S2, 46 other phones won’t access WhatsApp in 2023

    Samsung Galaxy S2 and 46 other smartphones won’t be able to access WhatsApp’s software anymore, according to WhatsApp.

    The update was made available by the service through its help center, which stated that impacted devices “may not have the most recent security updates or may lack the necessary functionality to run WhatsApp.”

    WhatsApp discontinues support for some devices annually. Other IT platforms do this. They quit supporting operating systems for the oldest and least-used devices.

    You will receive a direct notification from WhatsApp and “several reminders to upgrade” if your Android or iPhone is one of the mentioned devices.

    Read also: Samsung Unveils Foldables Galaxy Series

    “Devices and software change frequently, so we continuously assess which operating systems we support and make upgrades,” WhatsApp added.

    “Every year, we, like other technology businesses, look at which devices and software are the oldest and have the fewest people currently using them to decide what to quit supporting.

    These smartphones may also lack the most recent security patches or the functionality required to operate WhatsApp.”

    List of phones affected: From January 1, 2023, the following phones will no longer be able to use WhatsApp:

    • iPhone 5
    • iPhone 5c
    • Archos 53 platinum
    • Grand S Flex ZTE
    • Grand X Quad V987 ZTE
    • HTC Desire 500
    • Huawei Ascend D
    • Huawei Ascend D1
    • Huawei Ascend D2
    • Huawei Ascend G740
    • Huawei Ascend Mate
    • Huawei Ascend P1
    • Quad XL
    • Lenovo A820
    • LG Enact
    • LG Lucid 2
    • LG Optimus 4X HD
    • LG Optimus F3
    • LG Optimus F3Q
    • LG Optimus F5
    • LG Optimus F6
    • LG Optimus F7
    • LG Optimus L2 II
    • LG Optimus L3 II
    • LG Optimus L3 II Dual
    • LG Optimus L4 II
    • LG Optimus L4 II Dual
    • LG Optimus L5
    • LG Optimus L5 Dual
    • LG Optimus L5 II
    • LG Optimus L7
    • LG Optimus L7 II
    • LG Optimus L7 II Dual
    • LG Optimus Nitro HD
    • Memo: ZTE V956
    • Samsung Galaxy Ace 2
    • Samsung Galaxy Core
    • Samsung Galaxy S2
    • Samsung Galaxy S3 mini
    • Samsung Galaxy Trend II
    • Samsung Galaxy Trend Lite
    • Samsung Galaxy Xcover 2
    • Sony Xperia Arc S
    • Sony Xperia Miro
    • Sony Xperia Neo L
    • Wiko Cink Five
    • Wiko Darknight ZT

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    Deadline for those devices

    As we start a new year in 2023, some smartphone users may want to upgrade. “And to keep up with the latest technological advances, we routinely stop supporting older operating systems so that we can put our resources into maintaining the latest ones,” says WhatsApp.

  • Togo’s Solar Mini-Grid Project Receives €4m From SEFA, ADF

    Togo’s Solar Mini-Grid Project Receives €4m From SEFA, ADF

    The African Development Bank (AfDB) has approved €3.73 million for Togo’s rural electrification project.

    The fund will facilitate the Togolese government’s execution of the project to electrify 317 localities using solar mini-grids.

    The fund is AfDB, provided by the concessional lending window, African Development Fund (ADF), alongside the Sustainable Energy Fund for Africa (SEFA).

    Ahead of commencing the implementation of the project, the West African nation’s government will institute special-purpose companies, which will enable the state to contribute equity capital in parallel with the private sector. 

    It will also provide technical assistance to build the capacity of the project’s implementing agency.

    Read also: Germany Looks To Africa For Alternative Energy Sources

    Benefits To Private Sector Financing

    Director General of the Togolese Rural Electrification and Renewable Energy Agency (AT2ER), Robil Nassoma, explained the importance of the fund to private sector financing.

    According to Nassoma, “With this new project and the AfDB funding, we share a strong ambition to electrify 317 rural localities. The AfDB’s support will help catalyse private sector financing to make electricity available in unserved areas in the five regions of Togo.”

    Off-grid solutions will be used by the government agency carrying out the project to electrify rural areas. Togo has been relying on decentralised solutions for rural electrification through the Cizo project for a number of years. This project has mobilised a number of private operators, particularly solar home system suppliers. 

    In addition to equipping 1,000 village water supply systems (VWS), 3,000 small farms with individual solar water pumping or irrigation systems, and 10 mini-grids using smart meters, these solutions have made it possible to electrify 2 million people, 800 health centers, and a number of other facilities. The World Bank’s 2020 report states that 54% of Togo’s population has access to electricity. According to Power Africa, 84% of people in rural areas still lack access to energy.

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    Other AfDB Funded Projects 

    African Development Bank (AfDB) invested $20 million into an off-grid recovery platform.

    The Clean Revolution Project (CRP) is a blended finance initiative that aims to unlock private capital for energy-access companies. This is done to mitigate the pandemic’s adverse effects while advancing access to clean electricity and ensuring a green economic recovery.

    For the expansion, financing of $7 million was provided by the Sustainable Energy Fund for Africa (SEFA), a multi-donor fund managed by the African Development Bank. The rest $13 million was provided by the Global Environment Facility (GEF), which is a multilateral environmental fund.

    AfDB’s Sustainable Energy Fund for Africa (SEFA) awarded $2.5 million to offer financial support for Mozambique’s installation of a floating solar power plant in the Chicamba Reservoir. 

    Mozambique Renewable Energy Integration Program manages the project.

    In another development, The AfDB has approved $301m for the refurbishment of the Kampala-Malaba Meter Gauge Railway (MGR ) in Uganda. The revamp is aimed at improving regional trade and reducing transportation costs.

    The fund jointly includes loans and grants from AfDB, alongside its concessional lending window, the African Development Fund.

    The rehabilitation project covers the 265km of MGR tracks between Malaba and Mukono, which includes the line to Jinja Pier and Port Bell on Lake Victoria.  

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    In Rwanda, the African Development Bank Group inaugurated the African Pharmaceutical Technology Foundation (APTF) at the Bank’s 2nd International Conference on Public Health in Africa, with the theme: “Technology Access for Pharmaceutical Manufacturing: The African Pharmaceutical Technology Foundation.” 

    The APTF is an innovative organisation that will considerably boost Africa’s access to technology that aids the production of pharmaceutical items.

    Earlier this week, the Board of Directors of the AfDB provided additional financing of €5.01 million for the future Digital Technology Park in Diamniadio, Senegal. The Bank reaffirmed its commitment to the project, which was initiated in 2016. The bank provided an initial loan of €60.96 million to finance the project in 2016. 

    The Future Park is at the heart of the “Digital Senegal 2025” strategy, with an objective to create some 35,000 direct jobs from activities such as call centers, software and hardware engineers, and application development engineers. It also plans to create around 105,000 indirect jobs in housing, telecommunications, real estate rental, transportation, catering, and other support services.

  • Lagos Govt. Attracts $1b In Data Centre Investment In One Year

    Lagos Govt. Attracts $1b In Data Centre Investment In One Year

    Nigeria’s economic capital, Lagos, has seen no less than $1 billion in investment in the state in the last 12 months, particularly in the area of data centre investment.

    This was revealed at the Art Of Technology (AOT) Lagos 4.0 conference with the theme “Talent Acceleration and a Smarter Lagos,” according to Dr Obafemi Hamzat, the deputy governor of Lagos State.

    The growth of investment in Lagos, in Hamzat’s opinion, has exposed talent development inside the digital technology sector to several opportunities, with the state recording thousands of start-up companies contributing significantly to the ecosystem.

    He said that the residents’ acceptance of technology and the entrepreneurial environment in the state had spurred Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s increasing emphasis on innovation to develop valuable outputs for the state’s ecosystem, which is also evident in the government’s THEMES Agenda mandate.

    He explained that the state administration is pleased with the long-term growth of the environment.

    Read also: Africa Data Centre Joins Force With IXPN Nigeria

     

    According to the Deputy Governor, “Between 2019 and 2021, over a 120 per cent increase in Venture Capital (VC) inflow into Lagos was realised, resulting in $1.5 billion in VC funding in 2021 alone. We have records of over 2,000 startups creating and contributing value across fintech, agritech, construction, health and many others.

    “All of this points to an open and enabling environment for the growth and proliferation of entrepreneurial activity within the technology ecosystem.”

    Hamzat also emphasised that the Governor Sanwo-Olu administration has contributed to the advancement of technology, making Lagos the leading state in the sector. He also explained that the state’s impact could be seen in the initiatives being executed in the State’s first Innovation and Technology Masterplan.

    These, he further stated, include core pillars that transcend into a number of tactical efforts introduced during the inaugural Art of Technology edition.

    Since the inception of AOT events, the state has been able to create value-creating contributions that have made it possible to have a closer and more effective working connection with the ecosystem, according to Hamzat.

    “Since the first AOT gathering, we have ignited the Lagos State Science Research and Innovation Council, a body consisting of private and public sector professionals.

    “This body is tasked with intervening directly in the ecosystem through funding. The result to date has seen over 60 startups receive funding of between 5,000 and 12,000 dollars in the past two years,” he said.

    Harnessing Youths Potential

    On his part, Commissioner for Science and Technology, Hakeem Fahm, highlighted the importance of channelling the youth in the right direction. He said for the state to experience total development across all sectors of society, it is crucial to harness the youths’ energy in the appropriate way.

    Fahm explained that the Lagos youths are, without a doubt, the future face of the mega-city and the country. He emphasised that these youths are also brimming with brilliant ideas and boundless energy, and if given the correct platform as well as ample opportunities, they would be shining like stars.

    The commissioner further explained that the state government will now put more emphasis on talent acceleration and creating a smarter Lagos. In ensuring the state achieves this goal,  Fahm announced that the government is developing a 10-year roadmap to expand the talent acceleration pipeline in order to actualise talent sustainability and produce a smarter Lagos.

    Lagos Governor Sanwo-Olu Launches First MIT Senseable City Research Facility In Africa

    Lagos To Benefit From Microsoft ICT Training

    Recall that the Lagos Government’s Art of Technology (AOT) recently organised a dinner focused on  “Talent Acceleration and a Smarter Lagos,” still in line with getting the state technologically advanced.

    At the dinner, Microsoft’s Country Manager for Nigeria and Ghana, Mrs Ola Williams, announced that it signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the federal government of Nigeria to train and empower young Nigerians with digital skills, with a large number pooled from Lagos.

    According to Williams, “The MoU we signed with AOT is basically to work with the Lagos State Government to digitalize the state and provide access to different technologies, artificial intelligence and empower Lagos State government employees with the right to modernize their working environment, also to ensure securing all their digital technology in the state, in line with the state Government aspiration to make it a digital state”.

    She also explained that Microsoft is “working with the federal government to ensure that every youth takes part in the training. We are going to the six geopolitical zones of Nigeria and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).