This latest addition to the itel A Series is tailored to meet the needs of younger generations, delivering a cutting-edge smartphone experience at a budget-friendly price. The itel A80 empowers users to explore, connect, and create without limits.

The itel A80 stands out with its sleek and stylish design, featuring a unique ring light notification on its back panel and a premium glass-like finish with glacier patterns. The craftsmanship combines elegance with durability, offering a sophisticated look and feel that appeals to Ghana’s vibrant youth.

The device features a 6.7-inch punch-hole display with a 90% screen-to-body ratio and 500 nits of brightness for an immersive viewing experience. The dynamic bar and 120Hz touch sampling rate ensure smooth navigation and vibrant visuals, perfect for streaming, gaming, and browsing.

With an upgraded 128GB internal storage and 4+4GB extended RAM, users can enjoy fast app launches, seamless multitasking, and the freedom to download all their favorite apps, videos, and music without worrying about space. The powerful 5000mAh battery provides up to 3 days of usage on a single charge, ensuring uninterrupted productivity and entertainment.

Photography enthusiasts will love the 50MP super HDR camera, which captures stunning details and vivid colors. Creative filters and professional-grade enhancements let users take their storytelling to the next level, perfect for creating standout content for social media.

Built for reliability, the itel A80 comes with an IP54 waterproof rating, making it resistant to rain and splashes—a handy feature for Ghana’s dynamic lifestyles. The phone also offers a 36-month fluency guarantee, supported by smart system optimization technology to maintain smooth performance over time, reducing lag and ensuring efficiency for years to come.

itel’s mission is to bring the benefits of technology to everyone. With over a decade of expertise in emerging markets, itel continues to deliver affordable, feature-rich devices that cater to everyday needs. The itel A80 is a testament to this commitment, combining style, functionality, and affordability in one impressive package.

The itel A80 is now available across Ghana. Visit Jumia’s website or your nearest authorized dealer to purchase yours today.

Experience the joy of technology with the itel A80 – reliable, stylish, and made just for you! For more information, visit itel’s website.

In a message to readers, it said the US presidential election “underlined” its concerns that its owner, Elon Musk, had been able to use X to “shape political discourse.”

Mr Musk strongly backed Donald Trump and has now been given a role in cutting government spending in his incoming administration.

The BBC has contacted X for comment.

The Guardian said users would still be able to share articles and it was likely to continue to embed X posts in its coverage of world events.

It also said its reporters would be able to carry on using the site “for news-gathering purposes.”

But it said the “benefits of being on X are now outweighed by the negatives.”

“This is something we have been considering for a while given the often disturbing content promoted or found on the platform, including far-right conspiracy theories and racism,” it added.

The decision was also posted on X itself, where some users reacted with vitriol, with those who paid for prominent replies accusing the Guardian of “woke propaganda” and “virtue signalling”.

Mr Musk and the Guardian are far from political bedfellows, so in that sense, it is not surprising that the newspaper has responded to his and X’s increasing alignment with Trump in this way.

But it can also be argued the election result is an opportunity for the paper, which describes itself as “the world’s leading liberal voice.”

It is positioning itself as a key part of the “resistance” to Donald Trump, using the US election to highlight that is a media organisation without a billionaire proprietor – while also asking its readers for donations.

The day after the election, readers pledged more than $1.8m (£1.4m), a record for a single day.

Ben Mullin, the New York Times’ media reporter, described the media group’s fundraising as “a sign that some outlets are tapping a surge of enthusiasm for adversarial journalism post-election”.

The Guardian’s departure is also likely to intensify questions about whether others will follow.

X’s rivals already appear to be benefiting.

Meta’s Threads has continued to expand, and Bluesky – set up by Twitter founder Jack Dorsey – briefly topped the download charts in the UK and US Apple App Stores.

Its users have grown by four million in two months, and Bluesky said in a post on Tuesday that it had picked up a million new users in the seven days since Trump’s win.

However, it remains comparatively tiny, with 15 million users worldwide.

This project focuses on enhancing AI-powered speech recognition technology for five major Ghanaian languages: Akan, Ewe, Ikposo, Dagbani, and Dagaare, marking a significant step toward making communication more inclusive for all.

Globally, many individuals with non-standard speech due to conditions like cerebral palsy, ALS, stroke, Down syndrome, or Parkinson’s disease have faced significant barriers in communication.

Current speech recognition technologies often struggle to accurately interpret non-standard speech, limiting their effectiveness.

The tɛkyerɛma pa project aims to address this gap by training AI models to better understand these speech patterns in local languages, ultimately enhancing accessibility and making speech recognition more inclusive for Ghanaians with non-standard speech.

During a press briefing and tech talk at the Google Ghana office to present the progress of Project Euphonia, Prof. Isaac Wiafe, Project Lead and Associate Professor at the University of Ghana, told Adom News, “No one should be left behind, and we are excited to lead this important initiative.

“By developing localized AI solutions, we can ensure that more Ghanaians have the opportunity to communicate effectively, regardless of their speech patterns,” he stressed.

Project tɛkyerɛma pa is supported by a $40,000 grant from Google, with research expertise from UCL’s GDI Hub provided through the AT2030 program.

Katrin Tomanek, Senior Research Scientist at Google Research, also expressed excitement about collaborating with the University of Ghana on Project tɛkyerɛma pa, supporting their efforts to create the first open-source dataset of non-standard speech in Ghanaian languages.

She stated that the project reflects Google’s ongoing commitment to supporting AI research in Africa and ensuring that technological advances benefit everyone, regardless of how they speak.

Academic Director of the GDI Hub, Prof. Cathy Holloway, believes expanding the reach of AI-powered recognition to more languages is crucial to ensure that people living with non-standard speech can communicate more effectively with others and with devices in their daily lives.

ALSO READ:

• Google introduces Twi voice search, expanding digital access for Ghanaian speakers

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This inclusion is part of Google’s expansion of African language support, which now covers 15 new languages across the continent, enhancing accessibility for over 300 million people.

Developed in collaboration with Google’s AI Research Center in Accra, this update enables Ghanaians to search, type, and translate directly in Twi using voice commands.

This integration will allow millions of Twi speakers to interact naturally with technology in their native language.

In West Africa, other languages added include Hausa, Yoruba, Igbo, and Nigerian Pidgin. “This technology will make a difference to over 300 million more people across the continent, enabling them to interact with the web using just their voice. It’s one example of how Google in Africa is building technology for Africans and the world,” said Alex Okosi, Managing Director of Google Africa.

The voice support extension is part of Google’s broader mission to make information universally accessible. “The next decade will be Africa’s digital decade,” remarked Matt Brittin, Google’s President for Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. “Extending Voice Search, voice typing on Gboard, and voice input on Translate to 300 million people across Africa is a key landmark in that.”

Twi joins other African languages recently added to Voice Search and Gboard, including Chichewa, Somali, Shona, and Tswana.

Google’s expansion reflects its continued commitment to developing technologies tailored for African communities and marks a major step towards increased digital inclusion for Ghana’s Twi-speaking population.

ALSO READ:

I pat myself on the back – Jomoro MP on achievements [Listen]

NDC challenges NPP’s ambitious vote target in Volta Region

After a long wait, Apple has finally released its artificial intelligence (AI) tools for iPhone – to a select few.

Apple Intelligence, a suite of AI tools announced in June, became available to owners of some iPhones around the world on Monday.

The new features include notification summaries, tools to assist users in writing messages, and a glowing new interface for virtual assistant Siri.

But they will only be available to people with the latest devices – including all iPhone 16 models, and the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max.

Apple Intelligence is also available on Mac computers and iPad tablets that are powered by its latest chips.

But some of the tools made available on Monday have arrived later than equivalent features on other popular devices.

Apple chief executive Tim Cook said the public release of its AI tools introduced “a new era” for its products.

It comes after the company said on Friday it would reward ethical hackers who could demonstrate vulnerabilities in its AI software with a bounty of up to $1m (£770,000).

The bundle of features released on Monday in its iOS 18.1 update are the first wave of AI tools previously shown off at Apple’s summer developer conference.

More features expected later this year include generating images and emoji from text prompts.

The event, hosted by Pegasus Tech Ventures, brought together innovative entrepreneurs from over 80 regions worldwide, including a strong representation from Ghana.

This year’s event marked a pivotal moment for Ghana, building on the momentum of the successful maiden edition held in July.

The competition offered local startups from multiple countries an unparalleled opportunity to showcase their innovative solutions on a global stage, competing alongside some of the world’s most promising entrepreneurial ventures.

By participating in such a prestigious event, the regional winner from Ghana gained invaluable exposure, connecting with international investors, industry experts, and potential collaborators.

The event underscored Ghana’s growing reputation as a rising hub for innovation and entrepreneurship in Africa, further cementing its role as a key player in the continent’s economic transformation.

As the country continues to cultivate a thriving startup ecosystem, events like the Startup World Cup are crucial in providing the visibility, resources, and networks necessary to drive sustained growth and global competitiveness.

The Ghanaian delegation at the Startup World Cup Ghana regional event brought together a dynamic blend of innovators and business leaders, who demonstrated the forward momentum of Ghana’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.

The visionary leaders shared insights into the unique opportunities and hurdles of operating in Africa’s growing markets.

Their participation allowed for the exchange of ideas and best practices, drawing on global expertise while also showcasing the creative potential emerging from Ghana.

By engaging with venture capitalists, industry experts, and fellow entrepreneurs on a global stage, the Ghanaian delegation cultivated valuable relationships that are poised to catalyze future investments and cross-border partnerships.

The interactions facilitated during the event did more than just highlight the growth potential of Ghana’s startups; they also allowed for key discussions on scaling these innovations beyond local borders.

These conversations were instrumental in positioning Ghana not only as a hub for African entrepreneurship but as a key player on the international stage.

Moving forward, the partnerships and investments garnered at the event promise to fuel further growth, expand market reach, and foster technological advancements, paving the way for an even more robust and resilient entrepreneurial landscape in Ghana.

The Startup World Cup, renowned for its $1 million grand prize, is a premier global competition designed to connect entrepreneurs worldwide with critical resources, mentorship, and funding opportunities.

Ghana’s participation in this prestigious event highlights the nation’s rising influence within the global startup ecosystem.

The country’s entrepreneurs showcased not only their creativity and resilience but also their ability to develop innovative business models that address complex challenges across various sectors.

Their presence at the competition reflects Ghana’s growing role as a hub for technological innovation and entrepreneurship, further reinforcing its potential to shape global markets and attract international investments aimed at fostering sustainable development and economic growth.

Speaking after the event, Mr. Synaepa-Addison, President of Data Today said, “This has been an incredible opportunity to showcase Ghana’s entrepreneurial talent on a global stage.

“The networking, exposure, and insights gained from this competition will undoubtedly drive growth and innovation in our country’s startup scene.”

In the lead-up to the global finale, Ghana’s regional competition, held in partnership with Data Today at the Ghana Communication Technology University, provided a platform for local startups to compete for the chance to represent the nation in San Francisco.

The winner of Startup World Cup Ghana, McHan Cosmetics Limited, was among the diverse pool of startups vying for the grand prize at the Silicon Valley event.

While Ghana’s representative did not clinch the top prize, their participation has opened doors for future collaborations and investment opportunities, solidifying the country’s place in the global entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Looking forward, the success of the inaugural edition has cemented the Startup World Cup Ghana as an annual event.

The 2025 edition promises to be even bigger and better, further empowering local startups and providing them with a platform to compete on the global stage.

As the global startup scene continues to expand, Ghana’s increasing visibility through events like the Startup World Cup signals a promising future for its entrepreneurs.

With a return on the horizon for 2025, the Startup World Cup Ghana is poised to become a cornerstone event for the nation’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Interested startups eager to participate in the next Ghana Regional Event should bookmark the page https://startupworldcupghana.com/ to get more information.

About Startup World Cup

The Startup World Cup is a global competition that aims to connect startups with global investors, venture capitalists, and mentors.

With over 100 regional events around the world, the competition culminates in the Grand Finale in San Francisco, where startups vie for a $1 million investment prize. https://www.startupworldcup.io/

About Data Today

Data Today: Data Today is an organization headquartered in Ghana that focuses on technology research, solutions, and training.

Data Today works around the changing roles of technology in our day-to-day activities and how we interact with digital technology service providers and partners around the world.

Partnering with Pegasus Tech Ventures, Data Today hosted the inaugural Ghana edition of the Startup World Cup and will continue to do so in 2025. https://ourdatatoday.org/.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Precious Baidoo

Ag. President, Data Today

precious@ourdatatoday.org

+233264296366

The race between two of the world’s richest men, Elon Musk and Mukesh Ambani, is intensifying as they prepare to face off in India’s satellite broadband market.

After India’s government announced last week that satellite spectrum for broadband would be allocated administratively rather than through auction, this battle has only heated up.

Mr Musk had previously criticised the auction model supported by Mr Ambani.

Satellite broadband provides internet access anywhere within the satellite’s coverage.

This makes it a reliable option for remote or rural areas where traditional services like DSL – a connection that uses telephone lines to transmit data – or cable are unavailable. It also helps to bridge the hard-to-reach digital divide.

India’s telecom regulator has yet to announce spectrum pricing, and commercial satellite internet services are still to begin.

However, satellite internet subscribers in India are projected to reach two million by 2025, according to credit rating agency ICRA.

The market is competitive, with around half a dozen key players, led by Mr Ambani’s Reliance Jio.

Having invested billions in airwave auctions to dominate the telecom sector, Jio has now partnered with Luxembourg-based SES Astra, a leading satellite operator.

Unlike Mr Musk’s Starlink, which uses low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellites positioned between 160 and 1,000 km from Earth’s surface for faster service, SES operates medium-Earth orbit (MEO) satellites at a much higher altitude, offering a more cost-effective system.

Receivers on the ground receive satellite signals and process it to internet data.

Mr Musk’s Starlink has 6,419 satellites in orbit and four million subscribers across 100 countries. He has been aiming to launch services in India since 2021, but regulatory hurdles have caused delays.

If his company enters India this time, it will boost Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s efforts to attract foreign investment, many say.

It will also help his government’s efforts to burnish its image as pro-business, countering claims that its policies favour top Indian businessmen like Mr Ambani.

Production firm Alcon Entertainment claims it had specifically denied a request from Warner Bros to use material from the film at the launch event for Tesla’s long-awaited robotaxi.

Alcon alleges that despite its refusal Tesla and the other organisers of the event on 10 October used artificial intelligence (AI) to create promotional imagery based on the film.

Tesla and Warner Bros did not immediately reply to requests for comment from BBC News.

The “financial magnitude of the misappropriation here was substantial,” the lawsuit said.

“Any prudent brand considering any Tesla partnership has to take Musk’s massively amplified, highly politicised, capricious and arbitrary behaviour, which sometimes veers into hate speech, into account,” it added.

Alcon also accused the event organisers of “false endorsement” by suggesting a connection between the production company and Tesla.

Warner Bros, which hosted the robotaxi launch event at one of its movie studios, was also the distributor of Blade Runner 2049 when it was released in 2017.

The highly-anticipated sequel to the 1982 cyberpunk classic Blade Runner, starred Ryan Gosling, Harrison Ford, Ana de Armas and Jared Leto, and won two Academy Awards.

Elon Musk has referred to the original film several times in the past, hinting at one point that it was a source of inspiration for Tesla’s Cybertruck.

Alcon is currently producing a spinoff television series, Blade Runner 2099.

Separately, the director of 2004 sci-fi film I, Robot accused Mr Musk of copying his designs for humanoid machines and self-driving vehicles.

The title of Tesla robotaxi event – We, Robot – which played on the title of an Isaac Asimov short story collection, caught the eye of Alex Proyas.

But the claim was met with scepticism online, with some suggesting his own film is derivative.

TikTok owner, ByteDance, says it has sacked an intern for “maliciously interfering” with the training of one of its artificial intelligence (AI) models.

But the firm rejected claims about the extent of the damage caused by the unnamed individual, saying they “contain some exaggerations and inaccuracies”.

It comes after reports about the incident spread over the weekend on social media.

The Chinese technology giant’s Doubao ChatGPT-like generative AI model is the country’s most popular AI chatbot.

But the firm rejected claims about the extent of the damage caused by the unnamed individual, saying they “contain some exaggerations and inaccuracies”.

It comes after reports about the incident spread over the weekend on social media.

The Chinese technology giant’s Doubao ChatGPT-like generative AI model is the country’s most popular AI chatbot.

“The individual was an intern with the [advertising] technology team and has no experience with the AI Lab,” ByteDance said in a statement.

“Their social media profile and some media reports contain inaccuracies.”

Its commercial online operations, including its large language AI models, were unaffected by the intern’s actions, the company added.

ByteDance also denied reports that the incident caused more than $10m (£7.7m) of damage by disrupting an AI training system made up of thousands of powerful graphics processing units (GPU).

As well as firing the person in August, ByteDance said it had informed the intern’s university and industry bodies about the incident.

ByteDance operates some of the world’s most popular social media apps, including TikTok and its Chinese-equivalent Douyin.

It is widely seen as a leader when it comes to algorithm development due to how appealing its apps are to users.

Like many of its peers in China and around the world, the social media giant is investing heavily in AI.

It uses the technology to power its Doubao chatbot as well as many other applications, including a text-to-video tool called Jimeng.

Many of us have habitually used our laptops in bed without thinking twice about it.

After a long day, it’s tempting to crawl into bed with your laptop to watch a movie, finish some work, or browse the internet. It feels cosy and convenient, doesn’t it?

Elon Musk showed off Tesla’s upcoming driverless taxi at its “We, Robot” on Thursday evening.

Musk said the Robotaxi has no steering wheel or pedals and does not need to be plugged in. Instead, he said the electric vehicle relies on inductive charging and simply needs to drive over the charger to charge.

Tesla’s upcoming RobotaxiTesla

A Tesla Robovan prototype makes its way through a Los Angeles-area setScreenshot

Tesla Optimus robot prototypes walk onto the stage with Elon MuskScreengrab

The Minister disclosed this during an interview on Peace FM’s Kokrokoo on Wednesday, October 2, 2024.

Mrs. Owusu-Ekuful noted that, the necessary structures have been put in place for the service to commence.

Government had earlier announced that the 5G service will be rolled out by the end of this year.

What is 5G service?

5G service has been described as the Fifth Generation of Wireless Technology, which offers higher internet speed, higher upload and download speed, with more consistent connections and improved capacity.

5G networks run on the same radio frequencies as their predecessors, 3G, 4G and 4G LTE networks, which previously served most mobile phones worldwide.

However, improvements in speed, latency and bandwidth give 5G networks shorter download and upload times, stronger connectivity and better reliability, making them the natural successor to 4G technology.

It is said to be 10 times faster than the 4 G Plus service.

Government on 5G roll out

In an earlier engagement, Mrs. Owusu-Ekuful revealed that government has partnered with seven industry players to establish a shared infrastructure for 5G services with the aim of delivering affordable and high-speed mobile broadband services across Ghana.

During a Meet-to-the Press engagement earlier this year, She revealed that the 5G service is expected to bring numerous benefits to Ghanaians, including faster data speeds, lower latency, and increased connectivity.

This will enable citizens to access digital services, including healthcare, education, and financial services, more efficiently and effectively.

5G service provision and consortium of companies

Government has awarded the 5G license to The Next Gen InfraCo NGIC’s,   a new shared  Infrastructure Company, co-promoted by the government and seven other firms .

This new shared infrastructure, according to government is aimed at delivering affordable 5G mobile broadband services across Ghana.

The partners include Ascend Digital, K-NET, Radisys, Nokia, Tech Mahindra, AT Ghana, and Telecel Ghana.

Source: Joy Business

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A US federal judge has ruled that Google must allow Android apps made by rival technology firms onto its Google Play app store for three years starting next month.

The change was among several remedies ordered by Judge James Donato in a case brought against Google by Epic Games, the maker of the hit video game Fortnite.

Google says it will appeal against the decision and ask for a pause to the proposed remedies.

In December, a jury sided with Epic, which says Google stifled competitors by controlling the distribution of apps and payments on Android phones.

For young people undergoing long-term treatment or struggling with mental health issues, Norwegian company No Isolation developed the AV1 robot, which can take a child’s place in class, serving as their eyes, ears, and voice, and helping them stay connected with their classmates.

The AV1 looks like a blank, simplified version of a human head and torso. It can rotate 360 degrees and is fitted with a camera, microphone and speaker. Teachers place it on a classroom desk and the student controls it remotely using an app, for which they are given a unique password.

“They can tap or swipe their finger around the screen to look at different corners of the classroom,” said Florence Salisbury, marketing director for No Isolation. The student can talk to the teacher or their classmates through the speaker, and the app has a “raise hand” option that makes a light flash on the robot’s head. They can also select emojis that display in the robot’s eyes.

Salisbury says there are 3,000 active AV1 units in 17 countries, mostly in the UK and Germany, both of which have over 1,000 of the robots in operation.

In the UK, schools can rent the AV1 for around £150 ($200) per month, or opt for a one-time purchase for £3,700 (just under $4,960), with an additional service package of £780 (around $1,045) annually.

Salisbury says that perhaps the robot’s biggest benefit is its ability to maintain social bonds. She shared the story of a 15-year-old student in Warwickshire, England, using AV1 whose friends take the robot to lunch with them, keeping him included in their social circle.

“During a long absence, where classmates might not see their friend for an extended period, this connection to school really becomes a lifeline for that student, especially for those with a medical condition,” Salisbury said.

According to the most recent government statistics, more than 19% of students in England were persistently absent from school in the autumn of 2023/24, 7.8% due to illness alone, which is higher than pre-pandemic levels.

During the Covid pandemic, remote learning became the norm, but as students returned to school, for many it’s no longer an option. AV1 was launched before the pandemic, but some schools have reported using the robots to help students who have struggled to reintegrate with the classroom environment.

“They make the child important”

The UK’s Chartwell Cancer Trust has a supply of 25 AV1 robots it provides to children with serious illness. Founding trustee Michael Douglas told CNN that the robots enable children to stay engaged with their education even while in intensive care. “They are loved by the parents and make a real difference,” he said. “They make the child important.”

But he acknowledged that there can be administrative challenges around their use and that “red tape can be a real issue” when trying to get the AV1 system into schools or hospitals.

He added that some schools may also struggle to maintain the necessary technical infrastructure for seamless operation, because of weak Wi-Fi or mobile signal dark spots.

Technical training

In June, research published in the peer-reviewed journal Frontiers in Digital Health, examining the use of the AV1 in Germany and of the OriHime avatar robot in Japan, found the technologies “bear high potential for children to stay socially and educationally connected.”

However, it added that there was a need to establish structures to give equal access to avatar technologies, and that training sessions for teachers on the technical and social aspects of the robots are important for successful implementation.

Last August, No Isolation rolled out AV1 Academy, a library of training materials and resources aimed at improving the usability of the robot.

According to Salisbury, the AV1 is designed with robust privacy features. No personal data is collected, and the app prevents screenshots or recordings. Encryption secures the livestream, and only one device can connect at a time, with the robot’s head and eyes lighting up to signal active use.

There are other avatar robots on the market and some, like VGo and Buddy, have wheels and can move around the school or workplace, while some have a screen that shows the user’s face. Salisbury said that not having wheels is more practical for AV1, and weighing around 1 kilogram, the robot is easy for teachers or students to move between classes in a bespoke backpack.

She added that the absence of a screen showing the child’s face can also be an advantage. “Removing that pressure to be on camera, we’ve seen, increases the likelihood of the robot being used for students with emotionally based school avoidance,” Salisbury said.

OpenAI, the maker of ChatGPT, has raised $6.6bn in its latest funding round, as investors including its early backer Microsoft continue to bet big on artificial intelligence (AI).

The deal gave the tech company a value of $157bn (£118bn) – similar to investment bank Goldman Sachs and more than most of America’s biggest companies – making it one of the most valuable start-ups in the world.

OpenAI said the money would allow it to stay at the cutting edge of AI research.

The influx comes as the company has been in the spotlight, in part for internal leadership drama and debate over its future status.

You can install iOS 18 on the following iPhone models:

• iPhone 15
• iPhone 15 Plus
• iPhone 15 Pro
• iPhone 15 Pro Max
• iPhone 14
• iPhone 14 Plus
• iPhone 14 Pro
• iPhone 14 Pro Max
• iPhone 13
• iPhone 13 mini
• iPhone 13 Pro
• iPhone 13 Pro Max
• iPhone 12
• iPhone 12 mini
• iPhone 12 Pro
• iPhone 12 Pro Max
• iPhone 11
• iPhone 11 Pro
• iPhone 11 Pro Max
• iPhone XS
• iPhone XS Max
• iPhone XR
• iPhone SE (second generation or later)

For those wanting to take full advantage of Apple Intelligence’s upcoming features, you’ll need the A17 Pro chip found in the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max.

These devices are equipped with 8GB of RAM, which is necessary for running the most advanced features.

Unfortunately, Apple Intelligence won’t be available right away, as its release has been delayed.

What’s New in iOS 18?

Customization: iOS 18 introduces a range of new customization options, allowing users to move widgets freely on the home screen and even set custom colour schemes, including a dark mode for all widgets.

Privacy: Apple enhances privacy with the ability to lock and hide specific apps, offering extra protection from prying eyes.

Messages: The messaging experience is improved with new features like additional tap-back options, scheduled messages, and fun text effects. Plus, satellite communication with end-to-end encryption ensures users can stay connected no matter where they are.

Apple Intelligence: If you have a compatible device, Apple Intelligence brings powerful new features, such as an upgraded Siri that integrates with apps and even uses ChatGPT to provide advanced suggestions and information. Apple is reportedly considering further expanding options, giving users more choice than ever before.

Genmoji & More: Apple Intelligence allows you to generate images from prompts, create Genmojis (personalized emojis), and even adapt handwriting in Notes.

It also offers personalized writing suggestions based on your style, helping with tone and context. Additionally, it can summarize emails and notifications, so you never feel overwhelmed.

All these exciting features will be available for compatible iPhones once iOS 18 is released.

However, Apple Intelligence features will be exclusive to devices equipped with the A17 Pro chip.

Police in Switzerland made multiple arrests after a woman reportedly ended her life using a so-called suicide pod, in apparently the first case of its kind.

Police in the Schaffhausen region said they arrested “several persons” on suspicion of inciting, and aiding and abetting suicide after she died reportedly by using a pod made by the company Sarco on Monday.

While assisted dying is legally protected in some circumstances in Switzerland, it is strictly regulated and the Sarco pod has encountered opposition.

Officers recovered the device and body at the scene.

The U.S. Coast Guard began its first public hearings as part of its investigations to look into what caused the Titan submersible to implode almost 15 months ago.

On June 18, 2023, five people were aboard the vessel that imploded as it descended to explore the Titanic wreckage. Four days later, debris was found near the search area, with the Coast Guard saying at the time that it was consistent with a “catastrophic implosion.”

On Sept. 16, an image of debris of the submersible as well as the crew’s final message were among the new details revealed during the hearing, according to NBC News.

The final message from the crew was: “All good here.”

As for the image, it showed the debris that was recovered from the ocean floor.

The people that were inside the Titan were CEO Stockton Rush, British billionaire and owner of Action Aviation Hamish Harding, French dive expert Paul-Henri Nargeolet, and Pakistani businessman Shahzada Dawood and his 19-year-old, son Suleman Dawood.

OceanGate, the company behind the submersible, arranged for private tours to explore the Titanic shipwreck. It was later criticized for its lack of testing and use of experimental materials.

The company has since posted on its website that it “has suspended all exploration and commercial operations.”

According to NBC News, Titan lost all contact with its support ship, Polar Prince, almost two hours into its descent to the Titanic wreckage, which is about 13,000 feet under the water’s surface.

The trip was supposed to take about two and a half hours to the site, and then another four hours to explore the sunken ship before returning. The Titan, however, did not come back at its scheduled time.

The purpose of the hearing is to uncover the facts of what happened and make recommendations for future deep sea explorations, the Coast Guard said. It will take place over the course of two weeks in North Charleston, South Carolina.

Former employees, scientists and experts will also take part in the hearings, with the cause of failure to also be examined.

NBC News reports that the Marine Board of Investigation will also “determine the extent of any negligence or misconduct, and potential criminality would be referred to the Department of Justice,” board chairman Jason Neubauer said.

Among the witnesses in the Monday, Sept. 16 hearing was former engineering director at OceanGate Tony Nissen, who NBC News reports, claimed he was “terminated” after he “wouldn’t sign off” on an expedition in after the submersible was struck by lighting and compromised its experimental carbon fiber hull.

Nissen also said Rush had asked him to be a pilot on the Titanic missions, which he refused.

In a recent post on his X page, Musk provided exciting details about the device’s capabilities.

According to him, the Blindsight device is designed to offer vision restoration even for those who have lost both eyes and their optic nerves, given that their visual cortex is still intact.

“For those who have been blind from birth, this technology could provide the gift of sight for the very first time,” Musk wrote.

Musk tempered expectations by noting that the initial visual experience with the device might be low resolution.

“Initially, the vision provided by the Blindsight device will be akin to Atari graphics,” he said. “However, we anticipate that future advancements could enhance this technology to a level that surpasses natural vision.”

In a bold prediction, Musk suggested that the Blindsight device could eventually allow users to perceive wavelengths beyond the visible spectrum.

“The potential is there for users to see in infrared, ultraviolet, or even radar wavelengths, much like Geordi La Forge from ‘Star Trek,'” Musk stated.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has recognized the transformative potential of the Blindsight device.

In response to Musk’s announcement, the FDA expressed enthusiasm about the technology.

“Neuralink’s Blindsight device represents a significant leap forward in assistive visual technologies. We look forward to seeing how this innovation can improve the lives of individuals with visual impairments,” said a spokesperson for the FDA.

The Blindsight device’s development has generated significant interest in the scientific and technological communities, marking a potential breakthrough in the quest to restore vision.

Check out Elon’s tweet below: 

OpenAI is releasing a new model called o1, the first in a planned series of “reasoning” models that have been trained to answer more complex questions, faster than a human can.

It’s being released alongside o1-mini, a smaller, cheaper version. And yes, if you’re steeped in AI rumours: this is, in fact, the extremely hyped Strawberry model.

Image: OpenAI

Phrases like “I’m curious about,” “I’m thinking through,” and “Ok, let me see” create a step-by-step illusion of thinking. Image: OpenAI

A billionaire and an engineer have become the first non-professional crew to perform one of the riskiest manoeuvres in space – a spacewalk.

Jared Isaacman and Sarah Gillis stepped out of the SpaceX spacecraft around 15 minutes apart, starting at 11:52BST, wearing specially-designed suits.

“Back at home we all have a lot of work to do, but from here, Earth sure looks like a perfect world,” Mr Isaacman said as he exited.

It was commercially funded by Mr Isaacman. Before, only astronauts with government-funded space agencies had done a spacewalk.

As is common with new releases, Apple is phasing out several older models to make room for the new devices.

Starting this week, the iPhone 16 series will join Apple’s lineup, which already includes the iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, and the third-generation iPhone SE.

However, Apple is discontinuing the iPhone 13, iPhone 15 Pro, and iPhone 15 Pro Max.

These models will still be available through third-party retailers and may be offered at discounted prices, but Apple will no longer sell them directly.

Even though these older models are being retired, they will continue to receive software updates. For example, Apple’s upcoming iOS 18 will be available for iPhones from 2018 onwards, including the iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, and iPhone XR.

It’s important to note that Apple’s new AI features, known as Apple Intelligence, will only work with the iPhone 16 series and the iPhone 15 Pro models.

Older iPhones will not have access to these features. Additionally, the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max will come with larger screens.

The new iPhone 16 series will be available for pre-order on Friday, September 13, and will start shipping on September 20.

The new models feature updated processors, a new Camera Control feature, new colour options, and improved camera technology.

Alongside the new iPhones, Apple also announced the Apple Watch Series 10 and AirPods 4, along with updates to the Apple Ultra 2, AirPods Max, and AirPods Pro 2.

The iPhone 16 series features Apple’s new AI suite, dubbed Apple Intelligence, alongside next-generation processors and several hardware upgrades, including larger displays for the Pro models.

One of the standout features for the standard models is the addition of the Action button, previously only available on Pro models. All four versions of the iPhone 16 now also include a new Camera Control button, allowing users to customize their photo and video settings through touch-responsive gestures.

iPhone 16 models

The iPhone 16 series mirrors the lineup of recent generations, offering four models: the iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, and iPhone 16 Pro Max. Notably, the iPhone “Mini” has not made a return, having been discontinued after the iPhone 14 series, and rumors of an iPhone 16 “Ultra” did not materialize in this release.

iPhone 16 release date

The entire iPhone 16 lineup is available for preorder on Apple’s website, with a full release scheduled for September 20. The phones will be available through Apple, carriers, and other retailers.

iPhone 16 Prices

The prices for the iPhone 16 series are consistent with last year’s iPhone 15 launch, with options based on storage capacity:

– iPhone 16: $799 (128GB), $899 (256GB), $1,099 (512GB)
– iPhone 16 Plus: $899 (128GB), $999 (256GB), $1,199 (512GB)
– iPhone 16 Pro: $999 (128GB), $1,099 (256GB), $1,299 (512GB), $1,499 (1TB)
– iPhone 16 Pro Max: $1,199 (256GB), $1,399 (512GB), $1,599 (1TB)

Apple fans can now secure their iPhone 16 ahead of its official release later this month.

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CEO Tim Cook, during Apple’s much-anticipated event, introduced Apple Intelligence — a new AI-driven system built into the iPhone 16 to make it smarter and more personalized for users.

Interestingly, Cook opted to describe it as personal intelligence, highlighting its focus on adapting to each user’s needs rather than the broader term “artificial intelligence.”

The iPhone 16 promises a highly intuitive user experience, with advanced AI learning from your behaviour to anticipate what you need before you even ask for it.

Whether it’s managing your daily schedule, offering personalized recommendations, or streamlining tasks, the AI is designed to make life easier and interactions smoother.

This shift represents Apple’s bold step into the future of mobile technology, where devices aren’t just tools but become smarter companions.

But the iPhone 16 wasn’t the only star of the show.

Apple’s latest product announcements were full of exciting new features across its device lineup.

The new AirPods Pro are now more than just top-notch wireless earphones; they also serve as over-the-counter hearing aids, helping those with mild to moderate hearing loss.

The AirPods Pro also come with a built-in hearing test, accessible via your iPhone, that personalizes sound output based on your hearing profile.

Apple’s commitment to health and well-being didn’t stop there. The latest Apple Watch Series 10 is packed with new health features, including the ability to detect sleep apnea — a condition where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep.

The watch uses a built-in accelerometer to track breathing disturbances while you sleep, a first in the wearables space.

Not only that, the Series 10 has been enhanced for water lovers with specialized tracking for snorkeling and kayaking, including a depth gauge and water temperature sensor.

With the Apple Watch now boasting a 30% larger screen, users will also appreciate its sleek design and the efficiency improvements, including faster charging and longer battery life.

The device even has a Tides app to keep track of coastal conditions — perfect for those who spend time near the water.

At the event, Cook teased an even bigger future for Apple’s AI capabilities, as the company continues to refine its vision of “personal intelligence” to ensure a more tailored and seamless experience across all its devices.

While the term AI might conjure images of complex algorithms, Apple is taking the approach of making the technology feel personal, helping users feel connected, understood, and empowered.

For those eager to get their hands on these new devices, the iPhone 16, along with the AirPods Pro and Apple Watch Series 10, are available for pre-order starting today, with an official release set for September 20th.

With Apple’s latest innovations, the future of tech is looking smarter, more personal, and more exciting than ever.

In a passionate address, she emphasized the pivotal role Artificial Intelligence (AI) plays in shaping the future of technology, cautioning that those who fail to adapt will be left behind.

This year’s Ghana IGF, themed “Empowering Sustainable Development for Our Digital Future,” brought together experts and stakeholders to explore the transformative power of digitalization in driving growth and development across Ghana.

The forum delved into pressing issues, including bridging the digital divide, combating disinformation, and addressing internet shutdowns during political elections.

Rev. Dr. Owusu-Prempeh’s words served as a clarion call to the youth, urging them to embrace AI and leverage its potential to create a brighter, more sustainable future.

She emphasized that, AI is no longer a distant prospect, but a present reality that demands attention and action.

As the forum progressed, discussions centered on the need for inclusivity, accessibility, and responsible innovation in the digital sphere.

Experts shared insights on how AI can be harnessed to tackle Ghana’s development challenges, from healthcare and education to agriculture and infrastructure.

The Ghana IGF provided a platform for the youth to engage with thought leaders, policymakers, and industry experts, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose.

As the event drew to a close, Rev. Dr. Owusu-Prempeh’s words continued to resonate, inspiring a new generation of leaders to seize the opportunities presented by AI and shape a digital future that benefits all Ghanaians.

Source: Kodwo Mensah Aboroampa

X, formerly Twitter, has been banned in Brazil after failing to meet a deadline set by a Supreme Court judge to name a new legal representative in the country.

Alexandre de Moraes ordered the “immediate and complete suspension” of the social media platform until it complies with all court orders and pays existing fines.

The row began in April, with the judge ordering the suspension of dozens of X accounts for allegedly spreading disinformation.

Reacting to the decision, X owner Elon Musk said: “Free speech is the bedrock of democracy, and an unelected pseudo-judge in Brazil is destroying it for political purposes.”

Reuters

Mr O’Leary said introducing alcohol limits at airports would help tackle a rise in disorder on flights.

Violent outbursts are occurring weekly due to alcohol, he said, especially when it is mixed with other substances.

“We don’t want to begrudge people having a drink,” he told the Daily Telegraph.

“But we don’t allow people to drink-drive, yet we keep putting them up in aircraft at 33,000ft.”

Crew members and other passengers have become targets, according to Mr O’Leary.

Delays add to the problem, with longer drinking times at airports.

“In the old days, people who drank too much would eventually fall over or fall asleep. But now those passengers are also on tablets and powder,” he added.

“It’s the mix. You get much more aggressive behaviour that becomes very difficult to manage.”

Mr O’Leary said it was difficult for airlines to identify inebriated people at the gate, especially when they boarded in a group.

“As long as they can stand up and shuffle they will get through. Then when the plane takes off, we see the misbehaviour,” he said.

Ryanair staff search bags for alcohol before passengers board flights to Ibiza, one of the worst-affected “party destinations”.

Other challenging destinations include some of the Greek islands.

‘Unacceptable’

An AirportsUK spokesperson said that disruptive behaviour, whether due to alcohol or other causes, “is unacceptable and could lead to substantial penalties”.

These penalties include fines, boarding being refused, or up to two years in jail.

The spokesperson added that airports have “a wide range of measures in place to monitor and tackle disruptive behaviour and ensure everyone’s safety”.

“Airports are committed to providing a safe and enjoyable travel experience for all passengers and we’re pleased that the vast majority of travellers continue to enjoy their journeys responsibly,” they said.

‘We have had no complaints’

In response to Mr O’Leary’s comments, Wetherspoon chairman Tim Martin said they have reviewed their sales in the last four weeks at their busiest airport pub.

“We have had no complaints about our pubs from the airport authorities or airlines, that I’m aware of, in recent years,” Mr Martin said.

“If our pub teams do see a possibly disruptive passenger, they alert airport police and security,” he continued.

While there is “no perfect solution”, he added, “working with airports and airlines and the licensing authorities” strikes a “reasonable balance for outbound flights.”

Source: BBC

Starlink’s technology relies on a constellation of low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellites, which enable faster internet speeds compared to traditional satellites, positioning Starlink as a strong competitor in the global internet market.

As of April 2024, the network consists of approximately 5,800 LEO satellites, designed to efficiently relay signals and provide download speeds that can surpass 100 Mbps in certain areas.

Here’s a breakdown of the service plans available and their costs.

Starlink Service Plans

Standard Plan:

Priced at GH₵770 per month, this plan offers unlimited data, ideal for household usage.

Priority Plan:

At GH₵1,078 per month, this option provides unlimited standard data, with added features like public IP access, network priority, and priority support. It’s designed for businesses or users with high data demands.

Mobile Plan:

Starting from GH₵1,540 per month, this plan targets remote workers, campers, and businesses operating across different locations. It includes unlimited mobile data within the country, and prices increase based on the level of priority data required.

Mobile Priority Plan:

Aimed at maritime users, emergency responders, and mobile businesses, this plan offers specialised features like inland and ocean use data, network priority, and priority support. The cost ranges from GH₵4,428 per month for 50GB of data to GH₵17,710 per month for 1TB of data.

In addition to the subscription costs, customers will have to purchase the necessary hardware which costs GH₵5,390 and shipping costs of an extra GH₵354.

Source: GraphicOnline

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Access to the previous visa service provider’s website and services officially ended on August 16, 2024.

The Embassy has assured all applicants that existing nonimmigrant visa interview appointments remain valid and unaffected by the change.

However, starting August 26, applicants are required to use the new visa service provider’s website to create a new user account.

This is necessary for updating DHL delivery preferences, reviewing account information, making changes, submitting requests, and contacting customer service.

The Embassy has stressed the need for applicants to resubmit requests for expedited appointments if they do not receive a response by the August 16 cutoff date.

Additionally, those who have already paid the visa application fee but have not yet scheduled an interview will be able to do so through the new provider’s website, subject to appointment availability.

Applicants are encouraged to promptly update their accounts and ensure they are familiar with the new system to avoid any disruptions in their visa application process.

The U.S. Embassy remains committed to providing support during this transition period to ensure a smooth experience for all visa applicants.

Source: myjoyonline

Telegram gave no details of the arrest but said the Dubai-based company abided by European Union laws and its moderation was “within industry standards and constantly improving”.

FRENCH CITIZEN

Source: Reuters

This follows the successful completion of all necessary administrative and licensing processes with the NCA.

Starlink will be operated locally by SpaceX Starlink GH LTD, bringing its advanced satellite-based internet services to Ghanaian consumers.

This development marks a significant step forward in expanding high-speed internet access across the country, particularly to underserved and remote areas where traditional internet infrastructure is limited.

The move aligns with the NCA’s mission to promote efficient and reliable communication services in Ghana.

The regulatory body has worked closely with SpaceX to ensure that all operational and licensing requirements were met, facilitating a smooth entry for Starlink into the Ghanaian market.

Starlink’s arrival in Ghana is anticipated to have a positive impact on various sectors, including education, healthcare, and business.

By providing reliable and high-speed internet access, Starlink aims to support economic growth and development across the country.

About NCA

The National Communications Authority (NCA) was established by Act 524 in December 1996 and later repealed and replaced by the National Communications Authority Act, 2008 (Act 769).

The NCA is the statutory body responsible for licensing and regulating electronic communication activities and services in Ghana, ensuring the provision of efficient and reliable communication services throughout the country.

Scientists have discovered a reservoir of liquid water on Mars – deep in the rocky outer crust of the planet.

The findings come from a new analysis of data from NASA’s Mars Insight Lander, which touched down on the planet back in 2018.

The lander carried a seismometer, which recorded four years’ of vibrations – Mars quakes – from deep inside the Red Planet.

Analysing those quakes – and exactly how the planet moves – revealed “seismic signals” of liquid water.

A seasoned technologist, Dr. Ansah has not only contributed significantly to the nation’s digital transformation but has also positioned himself as a key player in shaping the future of trade and IT in the region.

Following his recent conferment of a Doctorate Degree, Dr. Ansah sat down with NorvanReports to discuss his journey, the challenges he has faced, and his vision for the future—a vision that promises to push the boundaries of what is possible in trade facilitation and information technology.

Dr. Ansah currently serves as the Chief Technology Officer (CTO) of Ghana Link Network Services, a company instrumental in developing the Integrated Customs Management System (ICUMS) that has revolutionized customs operations in Ghana.

Additionally, he is the founder and CTO of Work Smart Ghana Limited, further underscoring his role as a driving force in the nation’s tech sector.

A Milestone Achievement

The attainment of his PhD is a significant milestone for Dr. Ansah, marking the culmination of years of dedication, research, and perseverance. However, for Dr. Ansah, this achievement is merely the beginning of a new chapter.

“Earning my PhD is a huge milestone,” he stated, “but the opportunities ahead are vast.” With his academic credentials now firmly in place, Dr. Ansah aims to cement his status as a thought leader in the field, contributing to discussions that will shape the future of trade and IT on both national and international stages.

He envisions leveraging his newfound knowledge and experience to influence policy and practice, particularly in areas where technology intersects with trade.

“I plan to establish myself as a thought leader in my field, sharing my knowledge through research, speaking engagements, and contributing to discussions that shape the future of trade and IT,” he elaborated.

His ambitions are not limited to theoretical contributions; he also sees himself playing an advisory role to government bodies, international organizations, and private companies, helping them navigate the complexities of modern trade and customs systems.

Challenges in Innovation

Reflecting on his career, Dr. Ansah acknowledged the significant challenges he has faced, particularly in implementing large-scale systems like ICUMS.

“Getting people to adopt new systems isn’t always easy, especially when they’re used to doing things the old way,” he noted.

The transition from legacy systems to more advanced platforms like ICUMS was met with resistance, but through strategic demonstrations of the system’s efficiency and comprehensive training programs, Dr. Ansah and his team were able to facilitate a smoother transition.

The technical challenges associated with developing ICUMS were also considerable. Integrating this system with various other government platforms required meticulous planning and coordination.

“Developing something as complex as ICUMS comes with its own set of technical hurdles, from ensuring everything works together smoothly to keeping data secure,” he explained.

The success of ICUMS has not only sped up the clearance of goods at Ghana’s ports but has also significantly boosted government revenue, underscoring the impact of his work.

One of the most daunting aspects of his role has been balancing the demands of various stakeholders while staying true to his vision.

“Balancing the needs and expectations of various stakeholders while staying true to my vision has been challenging, but it’s also where my leadership has shone,” he reflected.

His ability to mediate between conflicting priorities and find common ground has been instrumental in the success of projects like ICUMS.

Looking Forward: A Vision for the Future

With ICUMS now firmly established, Dr. Ansah is not resting on his laurels. He is already looking ahead to the next wave of innovations that will drive further efficiencies in trade and customs operations. One of the most exciting prospects is the potential integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning into the ICUMS platform.

“We could start using AI and machine learning to make the system even smarter, such as predicting potential issues in customs processes before they occur,” he suggested. This predictive capability could be a game-changer, allowing customs officers to take preventive action before problems arise.

Dr. Ansah also envisions enhancing the system’s e-tracking capabilities by integrating ICUMS with global tracking systems, providing seamless tracking for shipments crossing multiple borders. This integration would ensure end-to-end visibility, reducing the chances of goods being lost or delayed.

“I plan to integrate with platforms like DHL’s or FedEx’s global tracking systems, allowing real-time updates for traders and giving them complete transparency on the status of their shipments,” he shared.

Further innovations could include the deployment of Internet of Things (IoT) devices at ports to provide real-time updates on shipments. Such advancements would not only reduce delays but also ensure that goods are stored in optimal conditions.

“Imagine our ports equipped with smart sensors that provide real-time updates on shipments. This would help reduce delays and ensure everything is in the right place at the right time,” he mused.

Additionally, Dr. Ansah is exploring the development of dedicated mobile apps for ICUMS, enhancing the user experience for both traders and customs officers. These apps would allow for greater flexibility and efficiency, enabling customs officers to manage tasks on the go and speeding up the clearance process.

A Mentor and Leader

Beyond his technical achievements, Dr. Ansah is committed to mentoring the next generation of technology leaders in Ghana. He believes in the importance of continuous learning and staying abreast of emerging technologies.

“The tech world never stands still, so it’s important to stay on top of the latest trends and tools,” he advised. His efforts to establish a mentorship program within Ghana Link highlight his dedication to nurturing young talent and ensuring that they have the guidance and support needed to succeed.

In a final word of advice to aspiring professionals, Dr. Ansah emphasized the importance of integrity, problem-solving, and ethical conduct in the tech industry.

“Let’s all be ethical and maintain integrity in our work. Security, privacy, and transparency should always be top priorities,” he concluded.

Dr. Ansah’s impact on Ghana’s tech ecosystem is substantial. He has led the development of LinkIntTradeNet, a blockchain-based customs management system for The Gambia, and spearheaded the creation of the Integrated Customs Management Systems (ICUMS) for the Ghana Revenue Authority. His work has significantly improved trade facilitation and revenue collection for the Ghanaian government.

In the private sector, Dr. Ansah played a crucial role in deploying Ghana’s first 4G network during his tenure at DiscoveryTel Ghana Limited, marking a significant leap in the country’s internet infrastructure.

Beyond his professional achievements, Dr. Ansah is known for his philanthropic efforts, focusing on bringing sustainable technological solutions to underprivileged communities. His vision for a more inclusive digital future aligns with global efforts to bridge the digital divide.

Dr. Prince Alvin KwabenaAnsah’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of technology when coupled with visionary leadership and a commitment to excellence.

As he continues to push the envelope in Ghana’s tech sector, his contributions are likely to have a lasting impact, not just on the industry, but on the nation as a whole.

Source: Norvan Acquah

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Several airlines have grounded flights around the world and many more are reporting delays.

The US state of Alaska has warned its emergency services are affected, supermarkets in Australia have been crippled, and media outlets in several countries have been left scrambling as systems failed, with Sky News in the UK temporarily forced off air.

The cause of the outage is unclear, but many of those impacted have linked it to Microsoft PC operating systems.

An official Microsoft 365 service update posted to X earlier in the day said “we’re investigating an issue impacting users ability to access various Microsoft 365 apps and services”.

However, a Microsoft spokesperson told the BBC on Friday that “the majority of services were recovered” hours earlier.

A spokesperson for the home affairs ministry in Australia – which has been particularly hard hit – said the outage appeared to be related to an issue at a cyber-security firm, while the country’s cybersecurity watchdog said there was no information to suggest a malicious attack.

“Our current information is this outage relates to a technical issue with a third-party software platform employed by affected companies,” they said in a statement.

Alaskan officials said many 911 and non-emergency call centres were not working properly, but Australian authorities say triple-0 call centres – the main emergency contact in the country – are not affected.

Social media users have reported problems making payments at stores like bakery and coffee chain Gail’s in the UK and grocer Woolworths in Australia, and also trouble accessing financial institutions like the National Australia Bank.

Travel plans around the globe have also been thrown into disarray, with airlines, taxis and rail affected.

US airlines United, Delta and American Airlines have issued a “global ground stop” on all of their flights, while Australian carriers Virgin and Jetstar have delayed or cancelled flights. Other airports – including in Berlin, Tokyo and Dehli – are also impacted.

In the UK, Govia Thameslink Railway warned passengers to expect disruption, while Black and White Cabs in Australia said their systems had been impacted too.

The product, dubbed Admissions Checker, is a web application that offers some sense of certainty to gain admission into Ghanaian universities.

The innovator, Albert Tetteh, the Chief Executive Officer(CEO) of Verbal Transformers speaking at the launch said the application was a revolutionary tool designed to alleviate the financial burden of multiple university applications.

The event was held at Presbyterian Boys Senior High School (PRESEC).

Mr. Tetteh explained that, the application enables students to check their eligibility for various universities for just GH₵5 making the process more affordable and informed.

The app aims to address the common challenge faced by parents and guardians who purchase multiple application forms without knowing their ward’s eligibility.

This innovative solution provides students with valuable insights into tertiary institutions and help them make informed decisions about their academic future.

Some student at the launch expressed excitement about the application, citing its potential to save them money and provide valuable knowledge about universities before completing Senior High School (SHS).

With Admissions Checker, the university application process just got easier, more affordable, and more informed.

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The product, dubbed Admissions Checker, is a web application that offers some sense of certainty to gain admission into Ghanaian universities.

A few hours away from being launched at the Presbyterian Boys Senior High School at Legon, the app will solve the current uncertainty and huge cost to students and parents.

The current situation and how Admissions Checker provides a solution

At present, SHS graduates seeking university admission must purchase multiple application forms, each costing about GHS200, in hopes of being accepted by at least one university.

Admissions Checker resolves this issue by offering a realistic approach to selecting universities and courses, thereby bringing clarity to the process.

How Admissions Checker works

The web application allows senior high school students to input their WASSCE or NovDec results into a portal containing tertiary admissions requirements.

The system uses algorithms to analyze the entered data and determine the likelihood of gaining admission to various universities and courses.

Based on the results provided by Admissions Checker, students can strategically target their applications to institutions and courses where they have a higher probability of acceptance.

This reduces uncertainty and eliminates the need for multiple costly applications.

What to expect at the launch

At the launch event, the developers of Admissions Checker will explain how the public can access and use the app, providing a step-by-step guide.

Stay tuned to adomonline.com for detailed coverage and updates on this innovative solution.

They found naturally occurring “few-layer graphene” for the first time, as state-run news agency Global Times reports, which could have major implications for humankind’s plans to make use of local resources once on the lunar surface.

The discovery could also offer new insights into the early geological evolution of the Moon. As the South China Morning Post reports, it may even upend a long-held theory that the Moon was formed after a small planet collided with the Earth and that much of its carbon came from this impact.

“The prevalent giant impact theory has been strongly supported by the notion of [a] carbon-depleted Moon derived from the early analysis of Apollo samples,” the team led by researchers from Jilin University wrote in their paper published in the journal National Science Review, as quoted by the SCMP.

However, the findings suggest the existence of a “carbon-capture process on the Moon,” leading to the “gradual accumulation of indigenous carbon” — a discovery that “may reinvent the understanding of chemical components… and the history of the Moon.”

No Impact

Using a form of non-destructive chemical analysis called “Raman spectroscopy,” the team confirmed the discovery of a type of few-layer graphene, which is graphene with anywhere between two and ten layers that can also be manufactured in a lab.

The researchers suggest the material may have formed as a result of solar wind battering the lunar surface and early volcanic eruptions.

The existence of pure “indigenous carbon” could challenge the long-held hypothesis that a small planet, roughly the size of Mars, collided with the Earth to form the Moon about 4.45 billion years ago.

However, the researchers admitted that meteorites may have still led to the formation of graphitic carbon on the Moon, as previous studies have suggested.

“Further in-depth property investigation of natural graphene would provide more information on the geologic evolution of the Moon,” the team concluded.

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The California-based company will build a vehicle capable of pushing the 430-tonne orbiting platform into the Pacific Ocean early in the next decade.

A contract for the work, valued at up to $843m (£668m), was announced on Wednesday.

The first elements of the space station were launched in 1998, with continuous crewed operations beginning in 2000.

The station circles the Earth every 90 minutes at an altitude just above 400km (250 miles) and has been home to thousands of scientific experiments, investigating all manner of phenomena from the ageing process in humans to the formula for new types of materials.

Starliner launched on June 5 from the Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Cape Canaveral, Florida, with flight commander Barry “Butch” Wilmore and flight pilot Sunita “Suni” Williams onboard, arriving at the ISS one day later.

The mission is part of the larger Commercial Crew Program at NASA, which was testing if Boeing’s spacecrafts could be certified to perform routine missions to and from the ISS.

The pair were originally scheduled to return on June 14 but have since had their return delayed multiple times, and currently do not have a planned date to return to Earth.

“We are taking our time and following our standard mission management team process,” Steve Stich, manager of NASA’s Commercial Crew Program, said in a statement. “We are letting the data drive our decision making relative to managing the small helium system leaks and thruster performance we observed during rendezvous and docking.”

Boeing and NASA have said the crew is currently not in danger because they are aboard the ISS with plenty of supplies in orbit, and the station’s schedule is relatively open through mid-August.

NASA and Boeing say Wilmore and Williams are “integrated” with the Expedition 71 crew aboard the ISS and are helping the crew with station operations as needed as well as completing “objectives” needed for NASA’s possible certification of Starliner.

“The crew’s feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, and they know that every bit of learning we do on the Crew Flight Test will improve and sharpen our experience for future crews,” Mark Nappi, vice president and program manager of Boeing’s Starliner program, said in a statement.

Starliner has been plagued by issues even before launch. The flight test was originally tentatively scheduled for May 6, but was scrubbed after a problem with an oxygen valve on a rocket from United Launch Alliance (ULA), which manufactures and operates the rockets that launch spacecraft into orbit.

A new launch date had been set for May 25, but a small helium leak was discovered in the service module, which contains support systems and instruments for operating a spacecraft.

Helium leaks and a thruster issue then threatened to delay Starliner’s docking. Five days after docking at the ISS, NASA and Boeing said the spacecraft was experiencing five “small” helium leaks and, at the time, said enough helium was available for the return mission.

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A set of leaked cases for the iPhone 16, as first spotted by the team over at TechNetBook, give us a peek into how Apple’s planned updates have impacted the smartphone’s external design.

Let’s start with one of the biggest tweaks: the orientation of the camera lenses. With the iPhone 16, Apple seems to be ditching the iPhone 15’s diagonal arrangement on a square camera island in favour of a vertically arranged camera stack.

Rumour has it this tweak should let all versions of the iPhone 16 record the same kind of spatial video currently exclusive to the iPhone 15 Pro models.

While standard video recording and picture taking shouldn’t be affected, the new camera arrangement is perfectly situated for optimal spatial capture, as the side-by-side lenses mimic the position of human eyes when recording in landscape mode.

Soon, anyone with one of the best iPhones could be able to record tailor-made 3D video viewable on an AR/VR headset like the Vision Pro.

What’s also noteworthy about these iPhone 16 cases is the covered button area where the mute switch used to be. This is believed to be for Apple’s new Action button, a side key you can long-press for all sorts of programmable shortcuts that debuted on the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max. Based on the case designs, the Action Button looks set to come to all iPhone 16 models and will no longer be a Pro exclusive.

Last but not least, a cutout below the power button suggests another Pro exclusive, a dedicated camera button, could be on its way to all vanilla iPhone 16 models. The case shows a complete cut-out for the button, which tracks with previous rumours that the button is touch-sensitive, enabling users to quickly perform a range of actions like capturing photos, adjusting zoom and focus, and more.

Of course, all this should be taken with a grain of salt for now. We still have a while to wait before Apple’s usual September time window for iPhone launches. In the meantime, be sure to check out all the rumours so far in our iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max hubs.

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An “ultra-sensitive” new blood test can predict if breast cancer will return years before the disease shows up on scans, researchers say.

It picks up traces of a tumour’s DNA before a full relapse and was found to be 100% accurate at predicting which patients would see their cancer return.

It is hoped that the test can allow treatment to start earlier and improve survival rates.

The UK research has been branded “incredibly exciting” by experts but is still in its early stages.

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Investigative journalist, Manasseh Azure Awuni has raised concerns about the 5G network contract awarded to Next Gen Infraco Ltd. by the Communications Ministry.

Mr Awuni alleges the company was established a week before President Akufo-Addo approved the deal.

Given this, he has questioned the company’s track record and doubts its capacity to effectively execute such a significant contract.

President Akufo-Akufo-Addo “granted Executive Approval on 22nd August 2023 for the introduction of 5G through the establishment of a neutral, wireless open access network to promote a vibrant telecom market in Ghana,” he wrote.

“The company that has been handed the deal was formed less than a week before the president’s approval.”

In a post on Facebook, he among other things revealed that the contract was awarded through sole sourcing, without allowing other companies to bid.

He argued that, the lack of competitive bidding raises suspicions about the transparency and fairness of the procurement process.

“The 5G technology, according to industry experts, can be worth hundreds of millions of dollars. Why is it being handed to one company without an auction?” Manasseh quizzed.

Manasseh’s allegations comes a few days after government announced a partnership with seven industry leaders to develop a new shared infrastructure aimed at delivering affordable 5G mobile broadband services across Ghana.

The seven partners include Ascend Digital, K-NET, Radisys, Nokia, Tech Mahindra, and two telecommunications companies – AT Ghana and Telecel Ghana.

Government said these partners have formed the Next-Gen Infrastructure Company (NGIC), which has been awarded a 5G license.

NGIC is expected to launch 5G services across Ghana within the next six months, with plans for further expansion into other parts of Africa.

ALSO READ:

• Govt to roll out 5G services by the end of 2024

• Govt to establish a neutral shared infrastructure company to deliver nationwide 4G, 5G services

A US luxury real estate billionaire and a deep-sea explorer are planning to travel in a submersible to explore the Titanic.

Ohio tycoon and adventurer Larry Connor and Patrick Lahey, co-founder of Triton Submarines, say they want to take a sub to a depth of around 3,800m (12,467ft) to see the shipwreck in the North Atlantic Ocean.

The private submersible industry was rocked after five people were killed when a vessel built by OceanGate imploded en route to the Titanic last year.

A spokesman for Mr Connor’s company said on Tuesday that the proposed voyage would only take place once a vessel was fully certified by a marine organisation.

There is no timeframe for the planned expedition.

The pair plan to use a sub dubbed the Triton 4000/2 Abyssal Explorer – the “4000” refers to the depth in metres to which the craft can safely be deployed.

The Titan submarine built by OceanGate was constructed of carbon fibre and was only certified to 1,300m, far short of the depths of the ocean floor where the Titanic wreck lay.

In June 2023 the vessel imploded while on a trip to the Titanic wreckage. OceanGate’s chief executive Stockton Rush, 61, died on board alongside four other passengers: British-Pakistani businessman Shahzada Dawood, 48, and his son Suleman, 19, British businessman Hamish Harding, 58, and Paul-Henry Nargeolet, 77, a former French navy diver.

Mr Rush was known for pushing the envelope when it came to safety, and he had ignored several warnings from advisers about potential issues with the Titan. Investigations by US and Canadian authorities are ongoing.

Mr Connor told the Wall Street Journal, which first reported on the proposed Triton expedition: “I want to show people worldwide that while the ocean is extremely powerful, it can be wonderful and enjoyable and really kind of life-changing if you go about it the right way.”

The private submersible industry suffered after the Titan disaster, and the pair hope that a successful voyage will reignite interest.

OceanGate suspended operations and other firms reported cancelled orders and declining sales after the Titan implosion. Mr Lahey told the newspaper: “This tragedy had a chilling effect on people’s interest in these vehicles.”

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The National Samsung Electronics Union says it will hold a one-day protest by asking all of its members to use their paid leave on 7 June, and has not ruled out a full-scale strike in the future.

The union says it has about 28,000 members, accounting for more than a fifth of the company’s total workforce.

Samsung Electronics says it will continue to negotiate with the union.

“We can’t stand persecution against labour unions any more. We are declaring a strike in the face of the company’s neglect of labourers,” a union representative said during a live-streamed news conference.

Samsung Electronics’ management has been in talks with the union since the start of this year over wages, but the two sides have so far failed to strike a deal.

The union has demanded a 6.5% pay rise and a bonus pegged to the company’s earnings.

Samsung Electronics is the world’s largest maker of memory chips, smartphones and televisions.

Analysts have warned that a full-scale strike could affect the firm’s computer chip manufacturing and impact the global supply chains of electronics.

Samsung Electronics is the flagship unit of South Korean conglomerate Samsung Group. It is the biggest of the country’s family-controlled businesses that dominate Asia’s fourth-largest economy.

Samsung Group was known for not allowing unions to represent its workers until 2020 when the company came under intense public scrutiny after its chairman was prosecuted for market manipulation and bribery.

Samsung Electronics’ shares were trading about 2% lower in Seoul after the announcement.

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However, beneath this surface of convenience lies a host of potential security risks and dangers that you should be aware of before you plug in.

Trevor Cooke, the privacy expert at Earthweb, warns travelers of the hidden dangers lurking in hotel USB ports.

WHAT ARE THE DANGERS?

Data Theft

One of the most significant risks associated with using hotel USB ports is the potential for data theft.

Trevor states, ‘Malicious actors can install “juice-jacking” malware on these ports, which can covertly siphon sensitive data from connected devices, including your passwords, personal information, and financial data.’

Malware Infections

Another danger is the risk of malware infections. When you connect your device to a compromised USB port, you may inadvertently expose your device to malware or viruses, which can lead to a range of security and privacy issues – not least hackers potentially taking over your device entirely.

Physical damage

In addition to cybersecurity threats, hotel USB ports may also pose risks of physical damage to your devices.

Trevor warns, ‘Poorly maintained or faulty ports can deliver unstable power, leading to damage to connected devices, including battery issues or even device failure.’

Unauthorized Access

Hotel USB ports may also provide an opportunity for unauthorized access to connected devices.

Hackers could potentially gain control over your connected devices or exploit vulnerabilities to compromise your device’s security.

Practical tips for safe device charging while traveling

Use a wall adapter

Trevor recommends, ‘Use a standard wall adapter and your device’s original charging cable to charge your devices.

This minimizes the risk of data theft or malware infections associated with hotel USB ports.’

Carry a portable power bank

Invest in a portable power bank to charge your devices on the go.

Power banks offer a convenient and secure alternative to hotel USB ports, allowing you to charge your devices without exposing them to potential security risks.

Enable data transfer restrictions

Many modern smartphones and devices allow users to disable data transfer when connected via USB.

Enable this feature to prevent unauthorized data access when charging your device using hotel usb ports.

Use a USB data blocker

Trevor advises using a USB data blocker when charging your device via USB in public places.

‘USB data blockers prevent data transfer while allowing for safe charging, providing an added layer of security,’ Trevor says.

Stay vigilant

Inspect USB ports for any signs of tampering or damage before connecting your device. Avoid using ports that appear suspicious or do not seem to function correctly.

Update your device

Always keep your device’s operating system and security software up to date to protect against known vulnerabilities and exploits.

Trevor concludes, ‘As convenient as hotel USB ports may seem, they come with inherent security risks that travelers should not overlook.

From data theft to malware infections, the dangers associated with using these ports are real and potentially costly.

By following the practical tips outlined above and staying vigilant when charging your devices while traveling, you can safeguard your personal data and mitigate the risks of falling victim to cyber threats.’

The itel A50 offers a host of features tailored to the vibrant lifestyles of Ghanaian youth, all at an incredibly affordable price.

With the itel A50, users can effortlessly capture and preserve life’s special moments.

Its expansive 128GB ROM allows users to store an astonishing 40,000 photos directly on their phone, eliminating storage worries.

Moreover, the innovative 4+4GB Extended RAM with memory fusion technology caches up to 11 apps seamlessly, ensuring smooth multitasking and app switching.

The striking 6.6″ HD+ display with an impressive 90% screen-to-body ratio provides an immersive viewing experience perfect for gaming, watching videos, and browsing the web.

With the A50, you’ll never run out of battery power, thanks to its robust 5000mAh battery that keeps you going all day.

Type-C connectivity ensures safe and efficient charging, while three different power-saving modes optimize battery usage based on your needs.

To offer blazing-fast download speeds for internet surfing, the itel A50 boasts a 300% increase in multi-band 4G support compared to 3G.

It also comes equipped with the latest OS 14.0 system, providing a more intuitive and customizable user experience. Users can personalize their home screen and use the convenient “Find Phone” function to easily locate their devices.

Designed with youthful and energetic aesthetics in mind, the itel A50 is available in a variety of stylish colors, allowing users to express their unique style.

Its sleek thin-edge design adds a touch of sophistication and elegance. Additionally, the integration of side fingerprint and face unlock technology enhances the user-friendly experience to match daily usage habits.

With Google mobile services, such as Google Find My Device, Android Nearby Share, Google Search, Google Maps, Google Photos, and YouTube, the itel A50 delivers an enriching digital experience that keeps users engaged, connected, and entertained.

In an interview with the Marketing Manager for itel Ghana, Mr. Tuekpe Michael, “The itel A50 is not just a smartphone, it’s a lifestyle companion that combines affordability, functionality, and style.

Whether you’re capturing memories, streaming content, or staying connected with friends, this device delivers on all fronts”. Get ready to elevate your mobile experience with the itel A50 – the ultimate choice for fun and entertainment at an unbeatable price in Ghana!

The discounting comes as the U.S. tech giant seeks to defend its position in the high-end smartphone market, where it faces increasing competition from local rivals such as Huawei.

Running from May 20 to May 28, it is more substantial than the one Apple offered in February.

While the highest discount in the February campaign was 1,150 yuan, this time discounts are up to 2,300 yuan. The steepest discount applies to the 1TB iPhone 15 Pro Max model, while other models also see significant price cuts.

For instance, the 128 GB version of the base iPhone 15 model has a discount of 1,400 yuan, according to Reuters’ checks on Monday.

The increased competitive pressure on Apple comes after Huawei last month introduced its new series of high-end smartphones, the Pura 70, following the launch of the Mate 60 last August.

Apple’s previous discounting effort in February appears to have helped the company mitigate a sales slowdown in China.

Apple’s shipments in China increased by 12% in March, according to Reuters’ calculations based on data from the China Academy of Information and Communications Technology (CAICT). This marks a significant improvement from the first two months of 2024, when the company experienced a 37% slump in sales.

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The outage, which also affected other subsea communication cables in the region, caused significant disruptions to banking and telecommunication services in countries such as Ghana and Nigeria.

In a statement released on Friday, MainOne, a subsidiary of Equinix, confirmed the repairs and their commitment to maintaining the integrity of the crucial infrastructure.

“Working closely with regional partners, maintenance providers, vessel owners, and permitting authorities, MainOne completed the necessary repairs to its submarine cable system, thanks to the diligent efforts of all stakeholders and has resumed regular operations with the utmost integrity of its submarine cable,” the statement said.

“During this period, MainOne provided restoration capacity and rerouted traffic on its network to minimize the impact on its customers”.

MainOne acknowledged the efforts of all involved in the swift resolution, including partners, vessel owners, and permitting authorities. The company also expressed their gratitude to customers for their patience during the outage.

“We are immensely grateful for the support and collaboration of our partners, the patience of our valued customers, and the unwavering commitment of our team during this outage,” said Funke Opeke, Managing Director of MainOne.

It said the successful repair of its submarine cable signified the company’s dedication to its customers and their commitment to fostering West Africa’s digital transformation.