Category: Gadgets

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.

ChatGPT Users To Pay $42 Subscription Fee

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.”

March 6, 2023
9 Google products that are powered by AI

Artificial intelligence (AI) has made significant strides in the past several years in terms of both use and application, and it has a bright future ahead of it. Google’s key products, used by billions of people daily, are already powered by AI.

Technology is reviving society globally. A head-to-head battle between AI+search optimization’s top players is the future. Talent acquisition, pricing volatility, and an unimaginable amount of money will be spent on search in the future.

These are nine ways we now employ AI to improve the usefulness of our products, including some of our most recent features:

Read also: The meteoric rise of ChatGPT, an Artificial Intelligence chatbot, worries Google

Search

The majority of searches at the time Google was formed were made on computers found in households, libraries, or computer labs. Twenty-five years later, AI is enabling search in new languages, with new inputs (such as using your camera to look anything up or even humming a song), and even several inputs at once.

How many times have you searched for the perfect clothing, nail painting lesson, or plant care instructions but couldn’t find the proper words?

Google’s multisearch lets you search using photos and text in the app. You can snap a photo and add words to discover a shirt with an unusual wallpaper pattern.

Modern methods for language processing and computer vision are used to power this capability. With Google Multisearch, users can now take a picture of an object to ask questions about it or even narrow down their search by brand, colour, or other details.

Open the Google app on your smartphone or tablet, tap the Lens camera icon, and then either search for one of your screenshots or take a photo of something in the immediate vicinity, like the trendy wallpaper pattern at your neighbourhood coffee shop, to get started.

To add text, slide up and click the “+ Add to your search” button.

Maps

In more than 220 nations and territories around the world, Google Maps is used to drive more than 1 billion kilometers each day. Google Maps employs artificial intelligence (AI) to analyze data and deliver current information about traffic conditions and delays, sometimes assisting users in completely avoiding a traffic jam.

Google and DeepMind, an Alphabet AI research facility, collaborated last year to increase the precision of their traffic forecast tools.

Google Maps has combined billions of Street View and aerial photographs to build a detailed digital model of the world, allowing users to experience a location as if they were physically present before entering.

Using artificial intelligence (AI), Google Maps uses 2D photos of a location to build a highly accurate 3D depiction that models the real complexity of a place, so you can see if a restaurant has wonderful lighting for a date night or a great outdoor dining area.

Translate

Google Translate eliminates linguistic barriers with AI and machine learning. With advanced machine-language-driven translation, the program now supports 133 languages.

The Google Translate app now supports 33 additional languages, all of which may be used whether the user has a network connection or is traveling without one.

In addition to others, the new languages also include Basque, Corsican, Hawaiian, Hmong, Kurdish, Latin, Luxembourgish, Sundanese, Yiddish, and Zulu.

Pixel

In chat, your Pixel phone can now immediately translate between 21 different languages thanks to a recent announcement, and interpreter mode on your Pixel phone can also enable verbal conversations between six different languages.

Magic Eraser on Pixel 6 removes photo distractions with it. A photobomb or electrical lines might ruin the great shot. These can take away from the photo’s focus.

When you take a shot, Magic Eraser can identify potential distractions like people in the background, power lines, and light posts and recommend what you might want to delete. Afterwards, you may select whether to delete them all at once or one by one by tapping.

Based on what you circle, Magic Eraser uses machine learning to figure out what you’re trying to eliminate. Magic Eraser then utilizes machine learning to estimate what the pixels would look like without the distraction.

Photos

People take numerous photographs, yet the profusion of images makes it easy for memories to go missing. In 2015, Google created AI for Pictures to assist users in searching for images based on their content. Google Photos automatically sorts photos by the people, locations, and objects that are significant. Users no longer need to tag or label any of them, nor do they need to create albums manually.

The app can also swiftly edit and combine photographs to let you relive life’s moments. To improve each photo’s color, lighting, and subject, tap once.

Google has used AI in Photos to let customers recall forgotten “memories.” Memories lets you look back on important images, recent highlights, family experiences, favorite pastimes, and more.

As you move through your photo grid, these memories will appear alongside fresh Best of Month memories and trip highlights.

12 Ways ChatGPT Can Make Your Business Operations Easier

YouTube

In order to make films more accessible to a wider audience, including people who are deaf or hard of hearing, YouTube employs AI to generate captions for videos automatically.

Assistant

Humans speak in a human manner. Until recently, computers did not. Because Assistant uses Natural Language Processing (NLP) AI technology, it can understand and respond in a way that mimics human communication. This enables it to parse the text of your question and attempt to determine its meaning.

AI lets your phone, home, TV, or car comprehend “Hey Google, where’s the closest dog park?” and immediately provide you directions.

Gmail

Autocomplete and spell check are two AI-powered services that we are all accustomed to using. Yet, if you’ve ever wondered why Gmail is less prone to spam than other email providers, look to artificial intelligence.

Gmail’s AI-powered spam-filtering tools block over 99.9% of spam, phishing attempts, and malware.

Google Arts & Culture

“Woolaroo” offers a fresh method for learning about native tongues. It supports the expansion, preservation, and sharing of 17 different world language communities’ languages with you.

Woolaroo, a language learning software, uses machine learning to identify things in front of your camera and suggest translations for them, encouraging language learning and the preservation of heritage languages such as Mori, Louisiana Creole, and Yiddish.

February 22, 2023
Mastercard, Xsolla partner to facilitate payments for video games commerce

Mastercard and Xsolla, a global company specialising in video game commerce, have formed a partnership to facilitate payments that are hassle-free, safe, and rewarding for gamers.

These improvements range from enhanced checkout experiences that make use of credit card loyalty points to simple in-game currency gifting, as well as improved creator payout processes and other areas.

Through this partnership, Xsolla’s platform will be combined with the technology, network-level expertise, global scale, and trusted connections of Mastercard. The end result will be payment experiences that are more accessible and fully customizable for players, developers, and creators.

Mastercard and Xsolla have agreed to collaborate on the development of innovative card and account-based solutions and services for the purpose of enhancing digital experiences for gamers in the realm of payments and beyond.

Pay with Points is a solution that will be integrated into Xsolla’s Pay Station product, and it will be available to Mastercard cardholders for the very first time.

Read also: Netflix introduces in-game IDs for iOS and Android gamers

This will allow cardholders to redeem their loyalty points for in-game purchases in a seamless manner, which will serve to launch this game-changing partnership. Additionally, players will have the ability to share an in-game currency with their close friends and family members. They also have the goal of resolving challenges faced by the gaming industry and placing a higher priority on protecting consumers. As part of this effort, the companies will use the authentication and fraud detection capabilities offered by Mastercard to provide parents with more control before their children make purchases with video games.

Details Mastercard and Xsolla Partnership

Blake Rosenthal, Executive Vice President of Fintech Solutions at Mastercard, stated that the company is looking forward to further enabling cardholders to tap into their passions through this new partnership with Xsolla which is shaping the future of commerce in gaming. “Mastercard has been a strong supporter of the gaming community for many years,” Rosenthal said. “We look forward to further enabling cardholders to tap into their passions through this new partnership with Xsolla.” “As mobile devices make video games more accessible, it is necessary to create a gratifying, best-in-class digital experience in order to cultivate a dedicated gaming community and build a payments ecosystem that offers choice across a variety of platforms and dimensions.”

“The partnership with Mastercard is a testament to our commitment to continuously innovate for the benefit of developers and all players around the world,” said Berkley Egenes, Chief Marketing Officer at Xsolla. “The partnership with Mastercard is a testament to our commitment to continuously innovate for the benefit of developers and all players around the world.”

“We are able to establish new channels for revenue creation and enhanced lifetime value for developers by combining Xsolla’s Payments Solution with Mastercard’s loyalty capabilities, security solutions, and card and account-based payments technology. Xsolla’s Payments Solution was developed by Xsolla. We are thrilled to make such a significant advance toward our goal of providing a superior and more welcoming gaming environment for all of our customers.

Later on in this year, players will have the opportunity to use loyalty points earned from participating Mastercard partners to pay for in-game purchases when making purchases.

Africa is set to take over the global videogame business.

February 16, 2023
Africa gets internet connectivity boost as international subsea cable arrives Durban

2Africa, an international subsea cable (submarine telecommunications cable) which aims to expand internet connectivity and help boost Africa’s digital economy, has recently landed in Durban, South Africa.

The massive subsea cable, which landed in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, is the latest after landing in December and January, at other locations in the country: Vodacom network facility in Gqeberha, Eastern Cape, Yzerfontein and Duynefontein, Western Cape.

At 45,000 kilometres, the 2Africa cable system becomes the longest subsea cable system in the world connecting 3 continents: Europe, Asia and Africa.

The cable will connect 33 locations at 46 locations across Africa, Europe, and Asia once it’s complete. Alcatel Submarine Networks (ASN) will manufacture and deploy the 180Tbps cable, due for completion in 2024.

Enabling communication speed up with a carrying capacity of 180 TBps (terabytes per second), West Indian Ocean Cable Company (WIOCC), the company in charge of the project, said the project is aimed to connect the African continent, enabling its communication speed up.

The company’s group chief operating officer Ryan Sher said: “It enables communication, speeds it up and adds volume to the amount of communication that Africa has. Ultimately, it enables industry and builds the economy.”

WIOCC Group CEO, Chris Wood, said: “This latest major international cable landing is another example of WIOCC Group playing a key role in building Africa’s digital infrastructure and accelerating the continent’s digital transformation through the delivery of converged open digital infrastructure.”

Read also: Google Subsea Cable to Bring Better Internet Connectivity to Nigeria

The international subsea cable to provide economic and social benefits

With a good internet speed, the project comes with enormous benefits from education to health care and businesses, providing economic and social benefits with increased connectivity.

First announced in May 2020, 2Africa planned to bring seamless international connectivity to billions of people. WIOCC said the cable would help industries come together in an ecosystem that would benefit Africans.

“This is the foundation of the digital economy and helps move us forward as a continent. A country cannot be without the internet for weeks, so what’s needed are multiple cables to … create a rich, always-on ecosystem.” Ryan Sher, WIOCC COO said.

He said the new-generation cables are open-access and – unlike the older cables that ran in monopoly landing stations – are not restricted to interconnect costs. He said cable was not limited to one operator in each country.

Once the system has been fully deployed, businesses and consumers in Africa will benefit from improved quality, reliability and lower latency for internet services.

With more capacity there’d be lower prices and increased speeds. Having more capacity enables more applications, cloud services, streaming services and a world of creative applications on the internet.

It will potentially increase regional job creation in sectors that rely on direct international connectivity, such as data centres, call centres and software development.

“We are pleased to be working with our partners in the 2Africa project, bringing faster, more reliable internet to local businesses and consumers, and making an enduring contribution to communications in Africa. The subsea cable system is enabling more communities to access transformative online resources, from education and healthcare to jobs and financial services, and experience the economic and social benefits of seamless connectivity.” Chris Wood, WIOCC CEO said.

Internet access in Sub-Saharan African cities

Connecting over 3 billion people

The 2Africa consortium, comprising of China Mobile International, Meta (Facebook), MTN GlobalConnect, Orange, STC, Telecom Egypt, Vodafone and WIOCC, is estimated upon completion to connect over 3 billion people of the world’s population when it goes live this year.

The undersea cable connection also has landing locations in Oman (Barka), UAE (Abu Dhabi and Kalba), Qatar (Doha), Bahrain (Manama), Kuwait (Kuwait), Iraq (Al-Faw), Pakistan (Karachi), India (Mumbai) and Saudi Arabia (Al Khobar).

February 14, 2023
South Africa’s Peachz Launches Online Store For Mobile Accessories

Peachz, a South African mobile accessories startup, launches an online store in a quest to establish itself as the leading online retailer of technology and mobile accessories in the country.

Peachz, which is headquartered in Johannesburg, aspires to make it “peachy” to buy reasonably priced and long-lasting products online. The company’s founder, Tali Flax, has stated that early reception has been beyond expectations.

The new company believes that customers should only have to buy an accessory once and that they have made a commitment to provide the highest possible quality at the most competitive pricing in their industry.

Founder Flax said, “It’s frustrating replacing a charging cable every six months – regardless of whether it was expensive or not. We are so confident about the reliability and durability of our products that we offer a 12-month money-back guarantee.”

“Peachz is off to a promising start, which I believe indicates the strong demand for high-quality accessories that perform as well as the electronic devices for which they are designed. We will continue to listen and cater to market needs,” he added.

Read also: How to fix a non charging Android phone

About Peachz

Peachz now carries a selection of phone mounts and holders that are suitable for use in a desk, automobile, or motorbike, in addition to Aux cables, Type C and A cables, and iPhone cables that are Mifi-certified.

The products Peachz offer are built to the highest standards and feature cutting-edge designs; as a result, you will only need to make a single purchase of each item.

Peachz stands behind the quality of its products and offers a limited warranty of 2 years against any manufacturing or workmanship flaws. If there is a flaw in the manufacturing process or the way the product was assembled, we will gladly replace it at no additional cost to you if it becomes damaged or ceases functioning.

How To Start Mobile Phone Accessories Business

If you get inspired by a company like Peachz and which to own a similar business; here are some tips to guide you

You can start a profitable cellphone accessory business if you can find a place with little competition or outperform your competitors online. Competition is good for business, so don’t be afraid. The mobile accessories market is large enough for more players.

Introduce a new product or feature in a niche like more power, cases, photo tools, water protection, drop protection, on-the-go, or wireless charging. New sells. Cellphone accessory businesses must be located. Renting a kiosk in a mall or plaza guarantees strong traffic. Starting with a kiosk lowers investment risk. Kiosks cost $2,000–10,000 compared to $100,000 for permanent store locations.

Cellphone accessory businesses need licences. Get this licence from the local government. Californians register with the State Board of Equalization. You may require a kiosk licence agreement if you operate a kiosk. If you open a kiosk at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport, you sign a retail kiosk lease.

Finding a manufacturer maximises earnings. You save a lot by ordering in bulk (10–200 pieces). Cellphone accessories can sell for much more than $1 each piece, depending on the type.

How Mobile Apps are changing African finance sector

Alibaba and IndiaMart offer international inventory sales. Consider ThomasNet or MFG to appeal to customers who prefer U.S.-made products.

If you’re not ready to create a physical store, start an online mobile accessories store. To build your brand, you can sell on Etsy, Amazon, eBay, or Shopify.

Online advertising is essential whether you use existing marketplaces and their consumer bases or build your own website. Spend wisely on marketing. Target cellphone accessory buyers with AdWords and Facebook ads. Advertise your products with YouTube and Instagram influencers.

February 11, 2023
WhatsApp adds many more features for 2023

The popular instant messaging app, WhatsApp, has recently updated its features to give users a varied experience. Android mobile users can now make videos more conveniently than in the past.

The latest feature set to be released will allow users to record video messages instantly on WhatsApp without keeping their fingers permanently on the camera button from start to finish.

The new WhatsApp 2.23.2.73 update will allow users to freely make videos without holding their devices as they can switch to video mode and start recording.

Read also: Users will soon be able to send “view once” messages via WhatsApp

WhatsApp unwavering upgrades

The platform has constantly been improving its features from the possibility of running the app on two devices simultaneously to the increase in the size of group members and the ability to hide your online status while using the app, the Meta group is not relenting on improving the experiences of the users.

In 2022, WhatsApp updated and included many features, running on iOS or Android, and the company is not stopping in 2023, as a total of five new fonts will soon be available for use to customize users’ experience.

Other features unveiled

Cyber-sleuths at WhatsApp blog WABetaInfo, who dug into the app to discover new features, revealed that the app would soon allow users to copy WhatsApp photos and videos with their captions. The feature is currently being tested. This will enable users to easily share photos and videos with others as they can add a caption to explain what the content is about.

Another feature that is currently under development is the ability to move WhatsApp chat history between Android phones without the use of Google Drive. This will make it much easier for users to transfer their chat history from one phone to another.

A block shortcut in the chat list is also under development, which will make it easier for users to block unwanted contacts right from the chat list.

Signing up for WhatsApp beta is the surest way to get the features faster, as it is unclear when WhatsApp will release these changes to the general public.

WhatsApp new features for its app come to the beta version first before they are released to the regular version to enable the company to get feedback from testers about their user experience if there are bugs or any other issues that need to be sorted out before releasing it to billions of regular users across the world.

WhatsApp Adds New Privacy Options, Enhancements

How to become a WhatsApp beta tester

You can sign up using your smartphone. From the Google play store, search WhatsApp, and scroll down the page until you find ‘become WhatsApp beta tester’. Click ‘I’m in’ and then confirm with ‘join’.

You need to sign up with the same WhatsApp number you use. Once signed up, a message that says ‘you are a beta tester now’ pops up, and then you receive the updates. You can opt-out at any time you wish to.

February 7, 2023
Google Closes Stadia Cloud Gaming services in the UK

Google has shut down its Stadia cloud-gaming service in the UK, promising to refund gamers who have made Stadia purchases.

The service was made inaccessible after 08:00 on 19 January, many gamers say they are “heartbroken” to see it go.

Google says it will refund people who bought controllers, games or downloadable content, with Google previously estimating those refunds would be completed by mid-January.

Google has marked the closure by releasing one final Stadia game, Worm Game, which the developers used to test the service before its public release.

“We’re grateful to the dedicated Stadia players that have been with us from the start. We will be refunding all Stadia hardware purchases made through the Google Store, and all game and add-on content purchases made through the Stadia store.” Google announced on the blog.

Read also: Acer introduces new Nitro Gaming Laptops

Stadia, a Netflix for games

Stadia was popular as a “neflix for games” since it launched, in November 2019, allowing players to stream games online without a PC or console.

However, after its closure, google has unveiled plans to make its Stadia controllers capable of using Bluetooth, which would allow them to be used on PCs wirelessly to play any game.

Google had announced in September that it was shutting Stadia because it hadn’t gained the expected traction with users.

“ A few years ago, we also launched a consumer gaming service, Stadia. And while Stadia’s approach to streaming games for consumers was built on a strong technology foundation, it hasn’t gained the traction with users that we expected, so we’ve made the difficult decision to begin winding down our Stadia streaming service.” Google announced on their blog.

But fans have reacted with sadness, with many pointing out that some games developed exclusively to be played on Stadia could be lost forever once the service closes.

Not Gone Forever

Stadia founder and chief executive Dylan Cuthbert told journalists his team would make sure it’s not “gone forever”.

According to him, the team had spent two years developing Stadia exclusive PixelJunk Raiders and wanted to make sure it was not “gone forever”.

“It’s a real shame when people can’t play a game you’ve spent years making,” he said.

“We’re hoping to talk to publishers who can help us get it on to a PC or even PS5 [PlayStation 5] or other platforms. The IP is ours, so we’re trying to find a way to do that.”

Mr Cuthbert said he was discussing how this might work with Google, which had been “forward thinking” about finding a resolution. But there is another problem. I’d want to rework the game a little bit as well,” he said.

“At the time when we launched it, we did have to rush it a bit at the end. I wanted to spend like a bit more time – maybe another eight months or so – reworking a few things.

“If I was going to relaunch it, I’d do that, and I’d want to find a publisher who can help us do that. But there’s nothing on the books yet.” He added.

Jordy, 30, from Gosport, told BBC News she owned three Stadia controllers and was “heartbroken” it was closing.

“I honestly loved Stadia, one of the things I found the best about Stadia was the fact I could game anywhere.” She said.

“I was able to play games like Destiny 2 with my partner via my iPad whilst he was playing on the PS5. The Stadia controller was the best controller I’d used. I loved it.” She added.

“The refunds enabled me to get myself a new gaming device, and Ubisoft even gave me the games we already purchased for free,” she said.

“Even the hardware was refunded, so we essentially got controllers and 4K Chromecasts for free. It is a shame that Stadia had to close, but I am happy I was able to experience it.” Jordy explained.

Gaming in Africa is expanding as players become professionals

About Stadia

Stadia is Google’s cloud-based gaming platform that lets you play your favorite video games instantly across compatible TVs, computers, and mobile devices, with no waiting to download games, patches, or platform updates.

January 26, 2023
15 Most In-Demand Tech Skills In 2023

Technology is one of the fastest growing industries across the world because it affects practically every aspect of human existence. With this awareness, most nations and businesses are working to better prepare for this advancement. This is why companies all over the world are in need of professionals with advanced information technology skills to enable them to maximise technology for their business growth and expansion.

What Does This High Demand For Tech Skills Mean?

This means there is a high demand for career professionals skilled in tech, which has created ample opportunities for individuals interested in the tech space to stay relevant and employable. Just like economists say, when demand is high, prices go up. The same goes for the technology sector. It is one of the industries with the best paying employment opportunities, which makes it more enticing for individuals to venture into.

If you’ve been thinking of a convincing reason you should go into tech, the high remuneration is definitely a good reason, while the ability to largely work remotely is another.

Read also: The emergence of a tech hub: Nnewi Tech Faculty

Here are 15 tech skills in high demand in 2023 that you can learn to launch your tech career and start earning big bucks

Software Development

Software development is one of the most in-demand and well-paying careers in the technology industry. Developers design, test, and manage software applications, and they are frequently in high demand by businesses of all kinds.

Website Development

Another lucrative field in the technology industry is web development. Web developers build and maintain websites and web apps, and they frequently collaborate with designers, marketers, and other experts to produce user-friendly and visually beautiful websites.

Analytics and data science

As more businesses rely on data to make business decisions, the demand for data scientists and analysts is increasing. These experts employ statistical and computational tools to extract insights from data and assist firms in making data-driven decisions.

Cloud Computing

Cloud computing is one of the fastest-expanding sectors of technology, with several job prospects. As more businesses move their data and applications to the cloud, cloud computing technologies such as Amazon Web Services, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud Platform are in great demand. Cloud computing professionals can work in a range of roles, including cloud architect, cloud administrator, and cloud security specialist, because they assist in storing, managing, and analyzing data in the cloud.

Read also: NITDA Urges Youth to Upgrade their Skills in Blockchain Technology

Cybersecurity

Cybersecurity is a key issue for firms of all kinds, and experts in this field are in high demand. Security analyst, security engineer, and security consultant jobs are in high demand because they seek to secure organizations’ networks, systems, and data against illegal access and cyberattacks.

Network and Information Security

As the number of cyber threats grows, so does the demand for network and information security expertise. These people work to keep networks, systems, and data in organizations safe from unwanted access and cyberattacks.

Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning

Artificial intelligence and machine learning are two of the most interesting and fast-growing areas of technology, and people who know a lot about them have a lot of job opportunities. These people work on making algorithms, models, and systems that can look at data and make predictions about it.

Technical Writing

Technical writers make things like user guides, online help systems, and other kinds of documentation for tech products and services. They are in charge of making difficult technical knowledge understandable to non-technical audiences.

Technical Support

Technical support employees help customers who are having trouble with technology products or services. They are in charge of finding and fixing bugs and other problems with technology so that consumers can get the most out of it.

Technical Sales

Customers are sold technology items or services by technical sales specialists. They are in charge of comprehending consumer requirements, recognizing opportunities, and closing sales.

Technical Project Management

Technical project managers are in charge of technology project planning, organization, and management. They work closely with teams of developers, designers, and other experts to finish projects on time and under budget.

Technical Training

Technical trainers are responsible for teaching people how to use technology products or services. They create and deliver training programs and frequently collaborate with clients, workers, and partners.

Technical Consulting

Technical consultants work with their clients to find out what kinds of technology they need and then give them expert advice on how to meet those needs. They frequently deal with a variety of clients and projects and are usually self-employed.

Technical Recruiting

Technical recruiters are in charge of locating and hiring top talent for technology firms. They work closely with the people in charge of hiring to figure out what the company needs and find the best candidates for the job.

Technical Marketing

Customers are marketed to by technical marketers that sell technology products or services. They work closely with product teams, sales teams, and other stakeholders to come up with and carry out marketing strategies.

5 African Technology Conferences to attend in 2023

Heads Up

It’s important that you know that some of these professions may require you to be knowledgeable in coding or programming languages, depending on the firm or organization you work for. If you are not interested in coding, you can look for opportunities that do not require coding skills.

You must understand, however, that the technology industry is ever-changing, and more tech jobs may require coding and programming knowledge in the future.

January 23, 2023
Tunisia’s Millesima Technologies secures $480K from investors

Tunisian start-up Millesima Technologies specializes in streaming video, video on demand, and data technology. In its fundraising efforts, the company raised 1.5 million dinars, which is about 480 thousand dollars. The company has been registered under the Startup Act.

In order to contribute to the launch of the MYVIOO platform, funds that have been raised from BH Equity, a venture capital investment company that is a subsidiary of BH Bank and has been active in the field of private equity since 1997, as well as from a private company, will be used.

Sharing on their social media platform, Millesima Technologies posted, “We are so pleased and honoured to share with the #network our biggest #news of this #fundraising , it is a very big #step for #Millesima Technologies and the team! This #opportunity will help us achieve our #goal and complete our #mission of #uplifting the #professional world with innovative #visions and #technology.”

Read also: Tunisia’s Kumulus To Generate Solar-powered Portable Water

They added, “A big thank you to #BH and #equity who believed in us and our #partners for their support, and of course, our #team for their remarkable hard work!!” customisable and kept private at all times.

Access to the channels can either be purchased for a price or obtained for free. The latter, in particular, makes it possible for the owners of the channel to manage all of the available advertising space.

In 2022, it was anticipated that video would constitute more than 82 percent of all internet traffic across the globe.

In response to this, MYVIOO, which is the first platform of its kind to be established in Tunisia, was developed.

About Millesima Technologies

Millesima Technologies is a Tunisian startup company that was established in 2021 by Haythem Dridi. The company spBourgoues in data technology and video streams and VOD in addition to platforms that are dedicated to face-to-face, hybrid, and 100% virtual events.

Tunis is the location of the company’s headquarters, and it has fewer than fifty people working for it. With Inès BOURGOU serving as CEO and Co-founder of Millesima Technologies, Onsa Ghrairi as Senior Sales Engineer, and Jihene Frikha as Communication and Marketing Manager, the company has been operating efficiently.

Nigeria turns into a hub for technological innovation and research – Kola Oladejo

Ways to Raise Funds for Your Business

If you have a striving company that needs upscaling, just like Millesima Technologies and other companies have sourced funds, you could consider the following options

Purchase order financing

Purchase order financing is ideal for businesses that get substantial product orders but lack the cash to produce them until the client pays. Purchase order financing companies compensate your supplier for product production. After shipping the product, your business invoices and receives payment. That payment repays the purchase order finance company. It’s expensive, but it’s an option for businesses that can’t get cheaper financing to fulfil orders.

Contests

Contests provide funds with few limitations. Contests sometimes attract creative or social firms.

Product pre-sales

This raises funds to fulfil orders and lets corporations measure product demand.

Strategic partners

Suppliers, distributors, and customers are strategic partners. Supply chain finance can augment your budget till your business is financially stable.

Incubators

Business incubators assist startups with resources to grow. Incubators boost enterprises beyond monetarily. They also advise network and train entrepreneurs.

Fundraising has been beneficial to lots of startups, and companies like Millesima Technologies have been able to leverage such opportunities to upscale successfully.

January 7, 2023
8 Best VPNs In Nigeria 2022: Speed, Streaming & Privacy
Technology has significantly evolved over the years, improving the internet experience globally. There is now easier and more affordable access to a plethora of diverse information.

This advancement has also made human interactions more seamless across business operations and relationship building among individuals, organisations and nations, among other human endeavours.

More than ever, the world transacts online with payment of goods and services cutting across all sectors, including education, health, manufacturing, entertainment and travel.

Now that the world is truly a global village and is so closely connected through the web, internet users need to be conscious and intentional about their safety online.

Transactions and interactions done via the internet leave trails, whether sending and receiving confidential information or paying for products and services. Therefore every interaction online can expose one to being hacked by cybercriminals. These cyber criminals engage in credit card fraud, identity theft, and other crimes.

How, then, can you protect yourself from these cyber criminals, also called hackers? This is where VPN comes in, as it provides online security and privacy for internet users.

Here are the 8 Best VPNs you can use in Nigeria, but first, let’s understand what VPN is.

Read also: How To Enable Bitcoin On Cash App: A Complete Guide In 2022

What Is VPN?

VPN is a three-letter acronym for “Virtual Private Network”. It is a service that provides protection for your internet network connection.

A VPN encrypts your internet data and traffic online in real time, disguising and protecting your identity, particularly when using public internet networks.

This makes it difficult for hackers and other third parties to monitor or track your activities on the internet.

How Does A VPN Work?

Every device that accesses the internet makes use of an IP address. This is what identifies the network and the estimated location. With a discoverable network and approximate location, every internet user risks being hacked.

This is where a VPN is important. It hides the IP address by redirecting it through a configured remote server run by a VPN host.

So if someone copied your IP address to get your data, it would appear like jargon and unusable information.

This means it shields your actual IP address from being known or leaked by disguising your location. So, you can browse the internet safely without fear of your information being compromised.

Now that the importance of VPN is understood, there is a need to know the best options to choose from.

Criteria For Selecting Nigeria VPNs

There are many VPNs available which makes finding a VPN a lot easy. However, what is important is selecting the right VPN that will adequately protect you as you surf the internet.

To rate any VPN provider, we look at the number of servers the provider as well as the countries their server network covers. Having more servers across multiple locations offer users a wide range of content options they can access globally.

We also rate the speed of the VPN to assess how fast it will be for streaming different audio and video sites online.

Protecting privacy is a key reason why internet users love to use VPNs, so we also examine how well users’ privacy is secured.

Here are the 8 Best VPNs you can use in Nigeria.
1. Nord VPN
2. Private Internet Access (PIA)
3. CyberGhost
4. Surfshark
5. ExpressVPN
6. IPVanish
7. PrivateVPN
8. Atlas VPN
These 8 VPNs are some of the best options you can pick from.

1. Nord VPN

NordVPN is one of the most popular VPNs, with a presence in 59 countries across the world. It has no fewer than 5,000 servers worldwide, ensuring improved speed and stability.

This means you have access to so many countries and can block content from one country to another that is within its jurisdiction.

NordVPN is great for internet users to safely use their regular services on the go, including streaming content on platforms such as Netflix and BBC iPlayer with high download speed and no lag.

The apps allow users to search by country or server. Options available are dedicated IP, P2P, onion over VPN, and double VPN. Each NordVPN server in the list details the server load percentage (the lower the percentage, the faster the server will be).

NordVPN prioritises security, particularly with the peculiarities of several nations restricting freedom on the internet. It has high-security standards, as the VPN provider prides itself on providing 100% anonymity for users. In addition to 256-bit AES encryption, DNS leak protection, and a kill switch, it has a strict no-logs policy.

NordVPN apps can be downloaded for Windows, MacOS, Android, iOS, and Linux. It can be manually configured on select routers. There is also an app for Android TV and a Chrome and Firefox browser extension.

Advantages: Network of over 5,000 servers around the world; high speeds for streaming HD content. It works with Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, and others. Beginner-friendly apps Very secure with a “no logs” policy, Excellent support

Disadvantage: Some servers are not so reliable

2. Private Internet Access (PIA)

Private Internet Access (PIA) has great encryption and identity protection features that let users do things online in private. It has no fewer than 20,000 servers across 77 countries.

In terms of speed, private Internet access ranks with a speed that enables smooth streaming of Netflix, Disney+, BOOM! Studios Max, and other sites. The VPN service also unblocks other popular streaming services like Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, Studios Max and many others.

PIA offers both a live chat system for instant responses and an email ticket system for slightly slower responses to less urgent queries. It also has a FAQ and guide section to help users understand how the VPN works.

Private Internet Access has apps for Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, and Linux. It uses WireGuard and “strict,” which are two of the most popular open-source VPN protocols alongside IPsec on iOS. It also has a strict no log” policy.

Advantages: Fast speed for high-quality streaming. It has over 30,000 servers worldwide, with browser extensions and extra security add-ons. It has responsive 24/7 live chat support.

Disadvantage: No app exclusion or whitelisting

3. CyberGhost

CyberGhost is a VPN service that provides quality security to safeguard one’s identity online. It has unlimited bandwidth and traffic, which makes it great for streaming online at a fast speed. This provider operates in 60 countries and has no less than 7,000 servers, with some situated in South Africa and Kenya.

Considering the user’s access to up to seven simultaneous connections, Cyber Ghost is flexible, giving you a variety of options. The VPN provider is easy to use and responsive. Selecting a server and activating features takes seconds to activate.

The VPN has a real-time customer support feature which enables users to have a Live chat in case the need arises.

CyberGhost VPN is safe to use in Nigeria because it utilises 256-bit AES encryption, DNS and IP leak protection and has an automatic kill switch.

CyberGhost apps are available for Mac, Windows, iOS and Android. It offers apps for Amazon TV, while Linux can be manually configured.

Advantages: Seamless streaming without buffering with strong security features. The app is easy to use, and 7 connections can run concurrently on a single account. The provider has a live chat support feature.

Disadvantage: CyberGhost has no app for Linux

How To Save Data While Streaming Video Online

4. Surfshark

Surfshark is a great option for a VPN, particularly for security and privacy. It has more than 3,200 servers available in 63 countries, including Nigeria. The VPN provider has fast speeds that ensure smooth HD streaming and also works with Disney Plus, Netflix, and Amazon Prime Video. This service can also access Twitter across Nigeria.

This VPN is guaranteed to keep no logs, protect users’ data with military-grade encryption, provide leak protection, and have a kill switch. It also has split tunneling, automatic wifi protection, and the option to send traffic through two VPN servers. It also has round-the-clock customer support.

Surfshark apps are available for MacOS, Windows, Linux, Android, and iOS. It can be manually configured on some routers. The VPN provider also offers extensions for Firefox and Chrome.

Advantages: Fast speed for streaming and browsing. Works well with multiple sites. It has an unlimited number of devices and connections. Customer service provides 24/7 live chat support. It has multiple added security features

Disadvantage: A few slow servers

5. ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN is an excellent choice of VPN because of the high rating of its security offering. The provider is present in 94 countries with over 3,000 high speeds servers.

The fast speed makes 1080p streaming very seamless due to the unlimited bandwidth and no throttling. ExpressVPN lets you stream anything from Netflix to ESPN.

The VPN provides support for its users, with 24/7 availability in case one needs assistance while using the service.

ExpressVPN protects the identity of users online, enabling one to stay anonymous. This is because of the security features that cut across 256-bit AES encryption, DNS leak protection and a kill switch. The VPN provider keeps no identifying logs of its users and enables users to unblock many geo-restricted platforms.

Operating systems of Mac, Windows, Android, iOS, Linux, and Amazon Fire TV, can access ExpressVPN apps. The VPN also has an app for routers as well as browser extensions for Safari, Firefox and Chrome browsers.

Advantages: Over 3000 network of servers worldwide with fast speed for browsing and streaming. The apps are user-friendly, and the VPN can unblock most geo-restricted content. It also has browser extensions. There is 24/7 live chat support.

Disadvantage: Slightly higher in price than most VPNs

6. IPVanish

IPVanish is a VPN that is keen on the security of its users’ data while surfing the internet and definitely works in Nigeria. With its fast-growing network of more than 1,900 servers, it is available in 60 countries across different continents.

IPVanish lets users connect to the VPN on as many devices as possible. It has apps for the most popular online services, making it easy for families to protect all of their internet-connected devices completely.

This VPN has a consistently high speed and works well with streaming platforms like Amazon Prime Video and HBO Now.

IPVanish uses 256-bit AES encryption, has a kill switch, and has in-built DNS and IPv6 leak protection. The VPN also has a no-log policy. Its apps can be installed on Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS. There’s also an app for Amazon Fire TV, but you have to set up Linux and routers manually.

Advantages: Has over 1900 servers with unlimited connection to devices. It has high streaming speed. It has extra security features.

Disadvantages: Struggles with Netflix and has no app for Linux.

7. PrivateVPN

PrivateVPN is a fast-growing VPN provider with over 200 servers with locations across at least 60 countries globally. This VPN is great for unblocking geo-restricted content and letting users access websites in a safe and private way.

A privateVPN is particularly excellent for streaming HD videos due to its fast speed. As a result, users can easily access streaming services such as US Netflix and Amazon Prime Video. With a quick and easy connection to servers, PrivateVPN lets users connect up to 6 devices at the same time with individual IP addresses.

The VPN keeps no data logs, protecting one’s identity and activity online. It makes DNS, of 256-bit AEIPv6cryption, DNS and lPv6 leak protection and has a kill switch. You also have the option of paying in bitcoin for increased privacy.

PrivateVPN is available on Windows and Mac, as well as for mobile on Android and iOS. Manual configuration is necessary for Linux and routers.

Advantages: High speed for streaming and browsing. Apps are quick and easy to use. Includes all of the essential security features. Has a Bitcoin payment option

Disadvantages: No 24/7 live chat. Has no app for linux.

8. Atlas VPN

Atlas VPN is a great choice for its fast speed, allowing users to stream online easily. With a presence in 37 countries, Atlas VPN has at least 750 servers and has no limit to the number of devices a user can use its services with. This means it can be used on mobile devices and computers.

The VPN lets users torrent, and all of their torrent traffic is encrypted before it leaves their device. A streaming service that unblocks Netflix and has a “Tracker Blocker” feature, Customer service for the VPN provider works around the clock to make sure that users’ questions are answered quickly.

Atlas VPN uses IKEv2, uses Wireguard, and has a kill switch. All data is encrypted with AES-256. It has a policy of not keeping logs to protect users and make sure that private information is not kept. This provider uses a data breach scanner to keep an eye on all of its users’ information and protect it from hackers. It is available on Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android.

Advantages: Atlas VPN has extra security features. It has good speed and unlimited connection to devices. There is 24/7 live chat support.

Disadvantages: Atlas VPN slows down your computer’s speed. It has no app for Linux

These 8 VPNs are easy to use and keep cybercriminals from stealing your identity while using the internet. It is a wise investment to consider in order to safeguard your data online.
December 5, 2022