Samsung and Oculus Introduce the First Consumer Version of Gear VR

Samsung Electronics Co, Ltd. today announced its first Gear VR device aimed to consumers, extending its leadership in the wearable’s category. The latest edition of the Gear VR is compatible with even more smartphones, including the Galaxy Note 5, Galaxy S6 edge+, S6 and S6 edge, leveraging each device’s super AMOLED display to provide the color, clarity and performance needed for an amazing virtual reality experience.

“Samsung has been at the forefront of delivering mobile experiences and ‘Gear VR Innovator Edition’ launched last year was no exception,” said JK Shin, CEO and President of IT & Mobile Division, Samsung Electronics. “We see virtual reality as the next computing platform, and we are thrilled to partner with Oculus on Gear VR to set the standard for mobile VR and bring this revolutionary product to consumers.”

The Samsung Gear VR is 22 percent lighter than previous Gear VR Innovator Edition, and includes new foam cushioning to make the device more comfortable to wear. In addition, the Gear VR’s touchpad has been improved, providing greater control while enjoying the robust selection of film, gaming, 360 degree video and experiential content available for Gear VR.

“Together with Samsung, we've redefined virtual reality and created the best mobile VR experience available today,” said Brendan Iribe, CEO, Oculus. “On Gear VR, people are playing immersive VR games with friends, sharing 360 video experiences, and teleporting around the world with photos and videos – and it’s only the beginning for what’s possible with mobile VR.”  

The Samsung Gear VR will be available in Frost White for USD 99 starting this fall.

COTTON USA Shines at Paris Trade Shows

While continuing to showcase its “Love My Cotton” global advertising campaign, COTTON USA delivered U.S. cotton sourcing assistance to major apparel industry players at the Texworld and Première Vision trade shows in Paris.

COTTON USA exhibited with Supima at Texworld and jointly exhibited with Cotton Incorporated at Première Vision. The shows – representing the largest combined exhibition of the world’s apparel manufacturers – provided a venue for COTTON USA to promote U.S. cotton and its global marketing and licensing program.Four companies from different countries expressed interest in becoming COTTON USA licensees. Additionally, 24 COTTON USA-licensed mills from China, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Korea, Pakistan, Thailand and Turkey displayed their products at Texworld.In addition to sourcing support and COTTON USA licensing, the booth also supplied information on the Cotton LEADS™ program and global developments in the cotton and apparel sectors. Various segments of the cotton textile supply chain met at the booths, and COTTON USA helped buyers and manufacturers looking for cotton garments and cotton yarn suppliers to identify new business contacts.International brands and retailers visited the booths, including: Marks and Spencer, Gerry Weber and Original Marines. COTTON USA and Supima were also honored to receive the visit of USDA FAS Counselor Mr. David Salmon and FAS Agricultural Marketing Assistant Mr. Laurent Journo. Additionally COTTON USA welcomed His Excellency M. Shahidul Islam (The Ambassador of Bangladesh in France) at its booth, and also held a meeting with His Excellency Ghalib Iqbal (The Ambassador of Pakistan in France).

Approximately 75,950 visitors from 120 countries attended both fairs, with a total of 2,869 exhibitors from more than 60 countries.

Mosaic Enterprise Challenge heads to Pakistan!

Building on the success of the Mosaic Enterprise Challenge first launched in the UK, and then in Jordan and Qatar, plans are finalised for the award-winning programme to be delivered in schools across Pakistan following a high-level visit this week. 

The Mosaic Enterprise Challenge, an initiative of HRH The Prince of Wales, is an annual national competition for secondary school students across the UK, designed to develop and encourage their entrepreneurial skills. SEED Ventures a Social, Entrepreneurship & Equity Development organization, is Mosaic’s delivery partner in Pakistan. Mosaic Managing Director - Jonathan Freeman, Head of International - Debra Hay, and Board member and London Chairman - Uzair Bawany were hosted by SEED Ventures for a visit to Karachi for a series of events. The visit included a high-level roundtable event for senior stakeholders hosted by the British Deputy High Commissioner – John Tucknott, a dinner for over 100 local supporters and a series of prominent media appearances, as well as visits to local schools already committed to participating in the Challenge.  As a result of this engagement, Zafa Pharmaceuticals confirmed its support for 50% of the overall funding of the programme over the next three years.

SEED Ventures, is run by local social entrepreneurs Faraz Khan and Khusro Ansari.  Faraz knows Mosaic and the Enterprise Challenge as well as he was one of the very first mentors on the Challenge when it was launched in the UK, supporting teams to the national finals. Commenting on the visit, Jonathan Freeman said “Mosaic has always wanted to take the Enterprise Challenge to Pakistan.  I am therefore delighted that Faraz, one of our very first UK mentors on the Challenge, and his team will be our partners in this exciting new development.  The speed and quality at which SEED Ventures have put in place the arrangements to make a reality of this ambition is truly impressive.” 

Jonathan Further commented “Mosaic’s success has always been down to the incredible support we receive from those willing to invest in our vision.  It is so very heartening therefore, that Zafa Pharmaceutical and their inspirational CEO, Jawad Khan, have committed the funding necessary to bring the Enterprise Challenge to Pakistan so quickly.”

With Mosaic’s support, Seed Ventures plan to deliver the Enterprise Challenge in the coming year to 300 students in at least 20 schools in Pakistan.  Importantly, SEED Ventures are determined that the Challenge should support the full diversity of Pakistan’s communities and has secured interest from schools not just in Karachi, but also Islamabad, Lahore, Quetta, Kashmir, Gilgit Baltistan and Peshawar.  SEED has also secured an impressive degree of support from businesses prepared to promote the volunteer mentoring opportunities the Challenge offers.

Pre bookings for Mate S, Huawei’s Supremely Elegant Smart phone, Are on the Way

Leading Technological innovator, Huawei, put its fans into a fit of admiration, when it unveiled stupendously stunning high-end Mate S at IFA, Berlin. Mate S has significantly surpassed the smartphone market champs like Apple and Samsung, by introducing unique technologies. Huawei has been consistently releasing such products in the market, which exhibit that this tech giant is putting all its energies in manufacturing modern high technological devices with pioneering features.

The latest smartphone of Huawei, Mate S, is all set to make its way in the mobile market of Pakistan. Authorities at Huawei, have announced that the pre-bookings for Mate S have commenced from 23rd September onwards. Mate S is going to be available in the Pakistan market for Rs. 67,999/- and those who would pre-book their Mate S will be given complementary Bluetooth device, Talkband B2 or a speaker by Huawei.

Now the Huawei fans would certainly become more excited to get their hands on the ultra amazing Mate S. Mr. Fraz M Khan, Huawei’s Marketing Head expressed his views in these words, “Huawei has established itself as a brand of excellence and trust. We have effectively delivered such devices in the market which have gained us not only our customer’s faith but also the top position in the international Telecommunication market. With the launch of Mate S, our significance in the smartphone world would increase manifold and our innovative technologies would successfully bring the people closer.”

Mate S, is the modern high-end smartphone recently launched by Huawei. It has captured great compliments from the smartphone critics because of the amazing and unique features it carries and also because of its elegant and finely crafted design. It can be most certainly hoped that similar to the beginning, ending of 2015 would also prove to be fortunate for the and sales and business growth of Huawei as witnessed acclamation, Mate S has received.

KARACHI’S IMPROVED SECURITY SITUATION BOOSTS PAKISTAN’S PROPERTY MARKET

The successful Karachi operation has positively impacted Pakistan’s real estate sector. New developments are expected to increase two to threefold in the future, according to a recent survey conducted by Pakistan’s best real estate website, Lamudi.pk

According to real estate agents and builders, the Karachi operation has created a very positive environment. The law and order agencies are eliminating the Qabza mafia from the city and people are now getting possession of their homes, plots and files.

It also contributed in increasing the confidence of investors and has resulted in increased Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). Overseas Pakistanis are also seen investing back in their homeland with increased investment directed towards the renowned Defence Housing Authority (DHA) and upcoming real estate hotspots such as Gwadar.

The brokers and developers reported an increase in property prices of Karachi after the operation, especially of posh areas such as: DHA, Clifton and DHA City. The property values of DHA City increased by almost 20 percent in the last two months and this trend is expected to continue.

Saad Arshed, Country Director of  Lamudi.pk, commented that: “The Karachi operation has given a great boost to the real estate sector of Pakistan. Not only is the city benefiting from it but trickle down  effects can also be seen in form of increased FDI inflows in the property markets of other cities too.

The operation should fully eliminate the Bhata and Qabza mafia and eliminate all such activities from the grassroots level. With Eid-ul-Azha right around the corner, and overseas Pakistanis coming back to their homeland to celebrate, the real estate sector is expected to undergo another jump.”

If the operation continues successfully, property prices will double. This will in turn lead to more construction activity and give a boost to the entire economy of Pakistan by creating jobs for the laborers, architects, engineers and the suppliers of raw materials etc., Arshed said.

Islamic Car Financing Revving Up Car Sales in Pakistan

Carmudi has recently published a white-paper that encompasses current and future state of the flourishing car financing market in Pakistan, and how consumer attitudes towards credit have transformed in recent years, especially with the growing trend of Islamic banking and Finance. The report is based on studies of data and reports by government institutions, authorities and interviews with financial institutions, car dealers, and banking experts throughout Pakistan.

Growing Islamic Banking and particularly Islamic Auto Finance remained the main focus of the study. According to the report in Pakistan conventional banking has facilitated car financing, generally. And auto financing has positively contributed in the new as well as used car business. Whereas Islamic Banking also enables auto finance for consumers who strictly follow the Islamic principles of riba free business and lending either. Though Islamic Banking counts only 1% of global banking business but also Islamic banking is rapid growing all over the world and especially in Pakistani market. Now a days banks like Meezan bank, Dubai Islamic Bank, Al Falah Car Ijarah and KASB Modaraba are providing riba free auto finance.

Based on the micro and macro-economic indicators, political stability, and increase in foreign investment in Pakistan, the economy is predicted to further stabilize. Further in the wake of rising per-capita income auto demand will also be high. Enabling environment, low car financing rates and Islamic financing ensures growing  Auto finance industry in Pakistan. “Car Financing is an integral part of the Auto Industry and the recent trend of Islamic Car Financing is giving a positive outlook to both consumer financing and automobile Industry. We see more and more people asking us about lease and financing options and it’s very healthy to see financial institutions come up with new offerings”, commented Raja Murad Khan, Managing Director of Carmudi Pakistan.

In May 2015, the IMF stated that Pakistan made “significant progress” by fulfilling targets under its $6.6 billion loan program. The country’s economy is on a high with low crude oil prices and $14 million in remittances from 6 million workers abroad. Following a 4.1% expansion during the last fiscal year, the IMF predicted a 4.5% growth in the economy starting July 1st of this year that was mainly driven by increased domestic demand in car sales and construction of 20% and 5% respectively.

According to a study by Nielsen in 2014, 78% of Pakistanis were having plans to purchase new or used cars during next two years. Whereas 89% were focusing on upgrading their existing vehicles subject to financial soundness, stated in the report. Auto industry won high sales in 2012 that is again expected in the wake of sustaine economic growth and subsequent increased lending coupled with 9.5% penetration rate of Islamic financing during current financial year.

It is also noted that between July 2014 to March 2015, consumer financing saw a growth of 6.4% (Rs. 16 billion), down from 9.8% (Rs 21.5 billion) in the same period of the previous year. Due to high demand for new car models and amended  regulations permitting banks to provide financing for vehicles older than nine years old, auto loans posted a 20% increase, up from 17.8% the year before. Increased income per capita, improved agricultural sector and the kickstart of the economy also contributed to the healthy growth in consumer credit, particularly in the auto sector.

Mate S-Super Efficient Processor & Seamless Connectivity

The diversified community of smart phone users constantly remains in need of such new devices which satisfy their need of possessing extraordinary smart phones which, along with latest technological features should also carry ultra attractive attire as well. Huawei has taken care of this need, many times in the past and now with the impending launch of Mate S, it can be undoubtedly said that Huawei is taking it all to the next level. The high efficiency, stability and outstanding quality of Mate S will make it stand out among its peers.

The internal components of Huawei Mate S, keep up the high levels set up by the exterior extremely elegant finesse. This smart device carries numerous amazingly unique characteristics which are surely going to make the customers fall in love with this gadget. Talking about the specifications of Mate S, the chip set, incredible controlled power consumption, and antenna features guarantee that the users of Mate S, would certainly enjoy seamless performance because of latest processor, Octa-core 64-bit chipset HiSilicon Kirin 935, which increases the systems fluent performance by 10%.

The Smart Antenna helps to have connectivity at all times, even if the user is sitting in a speeding train because with the Signal + technology and smart antenna, the signal power is enhanced and the ratio of call drop is greatly decreased. This result has been achieved and proved through multiple consecutive tests on high-speed trains. The intelligent antenna switches automatically according to the position of the user’s hand holding the smart phones and gives smooth, unhindered call connectivity.

With an additional Wifi + sensitive technology, the internet connectivity would never suffer because Huawei has equipped Mate S with the capability that it identifies the frequently used Wifi area, self-activates and connects. This Auto-connect to WIFI establishes connection with the strongest signal and intelligent switch of WIFI and 4G connectivity would give the Mate S users such a terrific usage experience that they won’t be able to switch their smart phone’s brand ever.

PTCL partners with Google for Tech Mela festival

 Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited (PTCL) has announced a partnership with global search giant Google for Tech Mela, a first of its kind online shopping festival in Pakistan.

Designed to promote the growth of online shopping in the country, the 10-day festival features products by Google’s leading retail partners.

Acknowledging that increased Internet penetration is vital to the growth of e-commerce in Pakistan, PTCL is leading the way by offering special discounts for its products and services through Tech Mela. Products carrying discounts include the premium CharJi wireless broadband, the EVO Wingle range and the recently launched CharJi Tab. PTCL is also taking online orders for the newly launched Hi Speed No Limits triple play (TV, broadband and telephone) package.

PTCL has extended its existing partnership with retailer Daraz.pk to offer doorstep delivery for Tech Mela. “Convinced that online commerce in Pakistan is on the rise, PTCL is geared up to enable e-commerce retailers in Pakistan and is also looking at this channel to interact with our customers,” observed Mr. Adnan Shahid, Chief Commercial Officer at PTCL.

Customers purchasing the CharJi Tab will also get a complimentary pre-installed Sygic car navigation app providing turn-by-turn voice guided navigation all across Pakistan along with a free car mount and charger. Those buying Hi Speed broadband also have the option of a free PTCL Smart TV app.

E-commerce growth in Pakistan has lagged behind the larger Asian region as consumers have traditionally been more comfortable buying things from brick and mortar stores.

However, with the advent of targeted online advertising provided by Google, consumers can be made aware of products as and when they search for them. And with easy shopping and payment processing services such as those offered by Daraz.pk coupled with reliable e-commerce fulfillment services such as those offered by TCS, online shopping in Pakistan is poised to take off.

As the largest ICT service provider of the country, PTCL continues to innovate and bring exciting new products and services for its esteemed customers. Customers can enjoy this limited time offer on Tech Mela till the 21^st of September 2015.

Code has significant pride in being the only company of Pakistan IT Industry that participated in ITCN Asia

CODE participated in ITCN Asia which took place in Karachi Expo Centre from 15^th to 17^th of September, 2015. Thousands of people interacted with CODE team, and were really captivated by CODE’s products during three successful days of Expo.

The group was founded more than 6 years ago and has since been expanding its portfolio of solutions provided in the form of specialized services and products. CODE is headquartered in Islamabad Pakistan, with offices in Karachi and soon to be in Lahore and Dubai.

CODE provides a wide variety of IT services, offering optimal end-to-end solutions to their clients providing them real-time benefits. People found CODE as offering a range of high-end premium products ranging from Mobile Applications, to User Management systems, to Business Intelligence Protocols, catering to the need of the current digital age.

Code was the only IT Company that had “Made in Pakistan” emblem on their branding in the entire exhibition, the Chief Guests of ITCN Asia exhibition Commander Vice Admiral Arifullah Hussaini and Airport Security Force Director General Major General Sohail Ahmed were really excited to see products like Code are emerging from Pakistan. Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) Chairman Syed Ismail, Ecommerce Gateway Pakistan President Dr Khursheed Nizam along with the foreign delegates were also present on the occasion, they also valued the efforts and finest solutions presented by Code team.

Mobilink Receives WWF ‘Award Of Innovation’ For Its Sustainable And Green Initiatives

  WWF Pakistan, in a latest honor recognizing the telco’s ongoing endeavors to protect the environment, conferred the ‘Award of Innovation’ to Mobilink at the third annual ‘WWF Green Office Network’ meeting. The award is in honor of Mobilink’s ongoing green sustainability initiatives, which target the telco’s industrial and corporate activities in a bid to cut down on consumption of electricity, paper, water and residual solid waste. Previously, Mobilink also received WWF’s Green Office Certification, only telco in the country to do so, for its corporate premises in Lahore and Islamabad after ensuring a 73% drop in the consumption levels of natural resources.    

Expressing his delight at receiving the award, Omar Manzur, Head of Corporate Communication - Mobilink said, "Mobilink's Corporate Responsibility function, not only, ensures that our employees are aware of environment-friendly practices and make efficient use of resources, but the corporation, as a whole, amalgamates this green philosophy with its corporate objectives. At Mobilink, we believe that global businesses are the only institutions strong enough to meet the huge long-term challenges facing our planet, thus we are willingly to strive harder to ensure our part is played out efficiently. The ‘Award of Innovation’ by WWF acts as an encouragement for our employees and ‘Green Office’ coordinators for all the good work they have been doing to live up to our corporate objectives.”  

As part of these ongoing green initiatives, Mobilink has incorporated a Building Management System – an intelligent centralized energy management solution to efficiently control & optimize the telco’s buildings’ consumption, and different Power System Optimization Projects. It also continuously revamps its communications structure to reduce paper usage, while cutting down on CO2 emissions through a reduction in corporate traveling; for this purpose Mobilink launched ‘MobiRide’ - an environment friendly-carpooling network designed and configured to address issues such as parking space constraints, high traveling expenses, and traffic congestions. The telco also holds regular employee engagement activities to create awareness about various environment issues, while Mobilink Torchbearers, volunteer employees, carry out environmental friendly activities like the recent tree plantation drive at the New Islamabad international Airport, where 2000 Silver Oak Trees were planted.   

Live Smart & Exciting Life with Mate S by Huawei

Mate S is an exquisite, extraordinary smart phone which is soon going to be unveiled by Huawei in Pakistan mobile market for those technology enthusiasts who always require diversity and uniqueness. This smart phone has been developed by the experts at Huawei’s R&D department with supreme excellence because of which this flagship device possesses features which are perfect enough to bring the users in admiration of this technology pioneering brand.

Among countless striking characteristics of Mate S, its capability to produce Hi-fi Music in an exciting way is surely going to entice customers, once this smart device is in the market. With New speakers, Hi6402 Audio chip, smart amplifier and Uni-body sound box the audio quality of music through Mate S, is certainly going to be a treat for the users and the headset sound effect matching feature will make the Hi-fi music experience ultimately superb.

Huawei’s Mate S would come with extremely smart touch screen, the interaction facilitated through it would give the users an out of the world experience because the screen of Mate S is pressure sensing screen which is the most important sensory function ever since multi-touch.

The screen of this smart phone is also equipped with other striking features such as revolutionary 3D control, enhanced touch experience, high precision sensor and the ability to identify strong and weak pressure.

Huawei’s Country Marketing Head, Mr. Fraz M Khan has said, “Huawei would soon launch this extraordinary smart phone in Pakistan. The latest fascinating technologies incorporated in this device are going to attract a large portion of smart phone users in the Huawei family.”

This Huawei smart phone has been manufactured to bring perfect ease in the users’ lives. Mate S’s features such as health management, car-phone interaction and wireless printing are totally going to take off the extra burden from user’s everyday routine.

With never ending list of Huawei Carr era’s exciting characters, this smart phone is all set to win the Pakistan mobile market swiftly. The growing number of smart phone users and their ever changing needs are the factors which Huawei keeps in focus while manufacturing its superb smart phones. This is obviously reflected in the sales growth which this brand has achieved in this year and surely these figures are going to increase many fold in future.

Huawei Mate S Offers Innovative Design and Superb Camera Features

Every feature of Huawei’s supreme prodigy Mate S is exceptional and revolutionary. The fine design of Mate S exhibits the elegant craftsmanship of Huawei. This smart phone possesses an ergonomic, sophisticated exterior, which has curved back cover which features a laminated ladder battery and a staggered height printer circuit board layout design. To give a smooth feel, this smart phone utilizes a nanometer shooting technique which seamlessly unites the phone’s antenna and metal.

The cutting-edge technology, including diamond cutting, CNC carving, nanotechnology and a sapphire camera are integrated into the phone’s seamless metal body.

The eccentric touch screen technology of Mate S offers an unusual design that presents a beautiful balance between the phone’s excellent capabilities and its spectacular visual facade.

The Huawei Mate S is equipped with a camera that suits to the requirements of both beginner and professional camera users. It considers the user’s needs in everyday life. The 13 MP rear camera features a RGBW sensor, optical image stabilizer, Dual color-temp LED flashlights, and independent image signal processor camera units, which combine to capture higher quality pictures faster.

The Huawei Mate S takes camera capabilities one step further by offering an 8MP front camera with soft, front lights to enhance quality of selfies. Huawei Mate S has been aptly equipped with such camera features which ensure that the users capture vivid and most beautifying images possible.

                                               

Warid Launches Easy Menu for Prepaid and Glow Subscribers

Following the successful launch of Pakistan’s first complete Postpaid USSD menu, Warid Telecom has now launched a similar service for its Prepaid and Glow customers, namely Warid Easy Menu. This new development will allow customers to access a host of services quickly and conveniently, without having to call the helpline.

Customers will simply dial *321# from their cell phones and the Easy Menu will appear on their screens, giving them the option to explore numerous services including account details, tariff change, prepaid offers, internet and SMS bundles. Subscribers will only be charged once for activation while the navigation is free of cost.

Warid Telecom has always exceled in providing its customers easy and affordable access to the latest technology. With the launch of the Easy Menu, both prepaid and post-paid customers now have the ability to access frequently required services with the swipe of a finger. This new service shows Warid’s dedication towards providing all of their subscribers with flexibility, convenience and control over their mobile connections, adding up to a better customer experience.

Huawei Mate S Amazing Knuckle Sense Technology

Huawei’s latest flagship smart phone Mate S, has the updated version of Knuckle Sense Technology, Knuckle Sense 2.0, incorporated in it. This technology was primarily introduced in the Huawei P8 and it offered new features and functions available with the tap of a knuckle. The Knuckle Sense 2.0 functions include: circling a screen display to capture a screenshot, designating letters to activate apps, and double-clicking to record.

This amazing technology enables the users to develop their own personalized knuckle shortcuts for every app. The user can swiftly move from one app to another, access apps by drawing certain letters on the screen, pre-assigned to those apps, for example, draw “c” to open camera, “e” to browse internet or draw “m” to listen to music. These knuckle shortcuts can be used to access any app or feature. The process to activate the aforementioned feature is also very simple. The user would just have to go to the smart phone’s settings and choose the “Motion control” option. Then Click “Draw,” and turn on the feature. The user can then designate a letter to open a certain app in his settings, or go with the default settings. The four default options available in the phone are, the letter “c” for opening the camera, “e” for the internet browser, “m” for music, and “w” for weather.

With the Knuckle Sense 2.0 in Mate S, user can take screenshots, screen recording and open apps with the smooth knuckle action.

Knuckle Sense has made the interaction between the smart phone and the user, revolutionary. Users can transfer images from one app to another, for example, from Whatsapp to Wechat with the help of some knuckle action. The User would just have to free-handedly crop and copy the image, drawing its outline with his knuckle. Another extraordinary feature is that, the user can capture snippets of films by double tapping the video, with his knuckle and later the snippet can easily be shared or saved.

WWF-Pakistan and Fauji Fertilizer Company partner for the conservation of Indus River Dolphin

WWF-Pakistan, the country’s leading conservation organization, and Fauji Fertilizer Company Limited, Pakistan’s premier fertilizer brand have joined hands to conserve the Indus river dolphin in Pakistan. 

The agreement between the two was signed in a ceremony organized at the FFC headquarters in Islamabad.  FFC has committed to supporting dolphin conservation for one year initially. However, the project may be extended to three years.

Speaking on the occasion Brig (Retd) Munawar Hayat Khan Niazi, Senior Manager FFC- CSR said that FFC-CSR program has a history of being proud partners with WWF-Pakistan on various environmental conservation programs. The engagement of FFC in Indus River Dolphin Conservation Program (IRDCP) with WWF -Pakistan is a true reflection of the company’s concern for a sustainable environment, he added.

While, Hammad Naqi Khan, Director General WWF-Pakistan said that Indus River dolphin is facing multiple threats which need to be addressed on continuous basis. He further remarked that this bilateral partnership would contribute and further strengthen the Indus River dolphin conservation program.

"Partnerships with other stakeholders are also essential which can help in highlighting conservation issues, addressing environmental challenges, providing new opportunities and benefitting the biodiversity in the long run," he added.

There are only five species of freshwater dolphins found in the larger river systems of the world today. The Indus River in Pakistan is home to the rarest specie of river dolphin; where a population of about 1,452 dolphins is distributed between Chashma and Kotri barrages.  The Indus river dolphin is considered the most threatened species as its population is highly fragmented due to the construction of water regulatory barrages.  In 1974 the government of Sindh declared a 200km river stretch between Guddu and Sukkur barrages as the Indus Dolphin Game Reserve as this section the river hosts the largest population of this charismatic and unique species.  FFC’s support will allow WWF-Pakistan to monitor canals and rivers for stranded dolphins, social mobilization in adjacent localities, a rescue helpline, the rescue of stranded dolphins, upgrade and operationalization of the Indus Dolphin Conservation and Information Centre (Sukkur) and promotion of awareness on dolphins through tours and safaris for the general public.

Huawei flagship smartphone, Mate S, Fine Design and Supreme Quality

Soon Huawei is going to introduce its luxurious flagship smart phone, Mate S. This smart phone is certainly going to entice the smart phone lovers because of its striking design which has been achieved utilizing outclass manufacturing expertise and craftsmanship at the Huawei Aesthetic center. Mate S, is going to be such a smart phone which would significantly add to the meaning of ultra classiness and brilliance. Those customers, who are liberal, hate constraint and who seek supreme quality and finesse in every product would certainly be impressed by Mate S, as this smart phone is surely going to strengthen Huawei’s also strong market position.

Design of Mate S has been inspired from nature, the 17-arch Bridge, which in itself is a symbol of excellent craftsmanship, nobility and grace. The smart phone is a perfect combination of traditional aesthetics and modern ergonomics, which make this smart phone extremely easy to carry and use without any effort. The design of this smart device has been structured to give the users an enhanced user satisfaction, improved accessibility and usability.

The body of Mate S has been produced with ultra proficiency and expertise, the metallic case has Aerospace aluminum and Nano-scale injection molding. The exterior boundaries of Mate S are visibly slim and the surfaces are manufactured smoothly with the exclusive polish system and are flat as a mirror. Huawei manufacturers have utilized Gorilla glass in this smart phone’s body, making it strong and resistant to scratches, etc. The Highlighted Bezel of Mate S, gives it a premium and elegant shine like a Diamond, with AMOLED Screen which exhibits dynamic colors and gives a gorgeous display.

Huawei has manufactured this smart phone to deliver to its customers such a smart phone which is not only equipped with the latest technologies but is also extremely fascinating to the eye. Year 2015 has begun with a boom for this leading technology company and with this smart device’s launch, it can be predicted the ending of 2015 would also be extraordinary for Huawei.

Samsung Launches Galaxy J Series Smart phones, J5 & J7, in Pakistan

Samsung has launched Galaxy J5 and Galaxy J7, the latest Selfie-focused smart phones, in Pakistan. These brilliant, smart devices of Samsung carry LED Flash with the front camera, which outshines all the peer smart phones in the market. Samsung has continued its tradition of delivering gadgets, which are exquisitely designed and carry pioneering technologies. These smart devices are endorsed by Samsung’s Brand Ambassadors, Josh Band and Sabeeka Imam.

Farid Ullah Jan, Head of  Mobile at Samsung Pakistan and Afghanistan, said, " The launch of Galaxy J5 and Galaxy J7 aims to give consumers options in the mid-range price segment. With optimal features and great value proposition for our consumers, the new devices will offer an uncompromised smartphone experience, at very competitive prices."

Galaxy J5 & J7 flaunt striking yet elegant exterior, which encases, Android 5.1 Lollipop operating system with a super fast processors 1.2GHz quad-core Snapdragon 410 in J5 and 1.5 GHz Octa-core Samsung Exynos 7580 in Galaxy J7. J5 &J7 processors are supported by 1.5GB of RAM/8GB ROM and 16 GB ROM, respectively, and this memory, expandable up to 128 GB with MicroSD card.

These super elegant, smart devices, carry Super Amoled high definition screen, differing only in sizes, i.e. J5 has 5.0 inches and J7 has 5.5 inches, screen. These screens have been aptly equipped to give to the users an ultimate experience.

 Samsung J5 & J7 are dual-SIM dual standby handsets that will be available in Black, White, and Gold colors.

These smart phones are the first ever manufactured by the company that carries a Flash LED with the front camera, of 5MP. This feature attributes them, as Selfie-Focused smart phones. The auto focus rear camera is 13 MP with f/1.9 aperture.

The powerhouses of J5 & J7, their batteries, are also super loaded with 2600 mAh and 3000 mAh respectively. These batteries are rated to give a standby time of 342 hours. These smart phones support both 4G and 3G with Bluetooth v4.1, Wi-Fi, GPS, Glonass and Micro-USB.

Huawei’s Mate S perfect to give an Audio-visual Feast

Mate S, modern flagship smart phone of Huawei, has been aptly equipped with latest technological features such as efficient processor, simplified user interface, effective power consumption control and seamless connectivity. Adding to this ongoing list of superb characteristics, the professional camera features of Mate S, makes it more appealing and fine smart phone prodigy of undoubtedly the top globally leading, technologically innovative company, Huawei.

The specifications of camera embodied in Huawei Mate S, are brand new sapphire lens, 13MP BSI main camera, F2.0/5P/AF, Optical Image Stabilization, Dual color LED Flash, RGBW 4-color sensor and DSLR-level ISP.

The pro mode available with Mate S’s camera allows the users to manually adjust ISO, EV compensation, exposure time and white balance and other functionalities making the photography with this smart device, professional and pictures captured would be attractive, full of lively colors and memorable. This camera also has many attractive filters, e.g. black & white filter, this filter gives the moments captured, an old movie effect.

The HDR+ Dim light shooting enhances the picture quality and gives it an eternal realistic effect. With the self –activating, ambient light sensing technology, pictures captured are full of vibrant colors and with both rear and front cameras; the users can produce the realistic original scene.

Huawei Carrera’s Perfect Selfie mode has the most well-defined outline brand new Beauty Mode. With high pixel, front camera and features like front soft light, adjust-light intensity, new beautify algorithm, more realistic beautified selfies can be captured with this Huawei’s modern smart phone, Mate S.

Rivo introduces the Phantom PZ18 a powerful smartphone for those who dare!

As Rivo Mobile continues to wow consumers with superbly powerful, high performance handsets at affordable prices, the newest member of the Phantom family is the PZ18. A combination of the best technology currently on the market, the most up-to-date software and looks that mesmerize, the PZ18 comes loaded with the latest version of Android, Lollipop 5.0. Then there’s the hardware, and this is where the PZ18 really comes into its own! For starters, the PZ18 is equipped with 2 GBs of RAM and a quad core 1.3 GHz processor that’s lightning-fast at multi-tasking, processing and overall usage. Its graphics capabilities are top-notch thanks to a Mali400-MP2 GPU clocked at 500 MHz with video decode and encode ability of 1080p at 30fps.

 To get the most out of all this, the PZ18’s display is a 5.3 inch HD IPS offering 16.7 million display colors and a resolution up to 720x1280. To store all your apps, HD movies and games, the PZ18 includes a colossal 16 GBs of internal storage space. This can be expanded by a further 32 GB using a microSD card. And with the rising trend of using cell phones to shoot not only selfies but indeed full-fledged hi-tech photography, the PZ18 really packs a punch where camera is concerned. The main camera is a cutting-edge 13 MP camera armed with a F2.0, 5P Glass, Sapphire lens, and a 1/3.2” CMOS sensor.

 Furthermore, the camera also includes a revolutionary three-LED flash that’s stronger and brighter than ever! The front camera is a full 5 MP and includes a large front camera ring for better, wider selfies and yet another LED flash. The remaining features are no less impressive, including 3G connectivity, remote control functionality, and a solid 2500 mAh battery. Finally, the PZ18 is a design spectacle! At just 8.25mm thick, this is one of the slimmest, sleekest phones yet by Rivo Mobile.

Solar – a Commercially Viable Alternative for Small and Medium Enterprises (SME)

The 3.2 million SME establishments in Pakistan contribute approximately 40% in GDP and 40% in employment generation. However, the sector has faced a difficult time sustaining itself by using fuel run generators to match the energy supply-demand gap. Various affected units have closed down and quite a few have relocated to avert trade crunches.

Numerous specific sector studies over the period have proven that widespread commercially available technologies such as solar power can ease the energy crisis. With Solar and wind power becoming increasingly competitive, various local banks have initiated credit facilities for green energy investments. Switching from fossil fuel to renewable sources can prove to be both economically and technically beneficial for the SME sector. Also, the recent feed-in-tariff policies have created opportunity for SMEs to emerge as a third party renewable energy provider through energy sales to the grid.

Inam ur Rahman, CEO of Reon Energy Limited in a national television show stated “If the national grid cannot provide energy then the SME sector has to look at other sustainable alternatives. Energy from diesel is very expensive and makes the sector uncompetitive. With the recent technology improvements, Solar and Wind energy can provide a reasonable solution to meet the sector’s electricity needs. Solar energy is easily installed and provides a commercially viable alternative. It is necessary that we all work together to facilitate and fund renewable energy investments” Reon Energy Limited is the renewable energy division of Dawood Hercules Limited - the single largest private sector energy provider in Pakistan.

Energy plays a crucial role in efficient functioning of industries. It is important that financial support over the period is increased to accelerate renewable energy investments and that the government provides enabling policies to make renewables attractive to the private sector. Also, it is essential that SME units set time bound renewable energy targets for creating self-sustaining ventures. Such interventions at various levels shall not only benefit the individual units but also prove profitable for long term sustainability of this sector and the energy sector in the country.

Mobicash Launches ‘Bachat Account’ for its Savings Conscious Subscribers

Mobicash, continuing with its innovative offerings, has launched a savings account for its mobile account holders. Aptly titled ‘Bachat Account’, it provides an incentive to account holders conscious of their saving habits by offering them a daily profit on maintaining a certain balance of money in their mobile account.  The profit in the “Bachat Account” is calculated and posted to the mobile account on a daily basis. This service comes with unique features that are industry first initiatives, daily posting to the mobile account and option to subscribe/un-subscribe directly from customer mobile account menu.

This service is available to both existing and new Mobicash Mobile Account customers.

Aniqa Afzal Sandhu, Senior Director Mobile Financial Services - Mobilink, while expressing her joy at the launch of this latest product stated, “This latest product will be of immense benefit to our customer base as it offers them a handsome return on their earnings and promotes a savings culture. Around the globe, people are encouraged to save for a better tomorrow, and our product is a step in that direction. Mobicash wants to provide Pakistani citizens with a safeguard against economic uncertainty and other personal emergencies. In line with our vision to bridge the divide between banked and unbanked proportions, our Bachat Account offers individuals an opportunity to lead a better lifestyle by encouraging micro-saving.”

This service currently offers mobile account holders three separate saving plans based on a set range of balance requirements: Bachat Plan A sets PKR 2500 as the minimum balance, which offers users an annual profit rate of 6%, Bachat Plan B has a minimum balance requirement of PKR 7,500 with an annual return of 7%, while Bachat Plan C offers an industry high annual return of 9% on a minimum balance of PKR 15,000.  For a free of charge subscription to a Bachat Plan, Mobicash Mobile Account holders need to dial *786# from their phone and go to ‘My Account’ and select ‘Bachat Account’, then choose a relevant Bachat Plan and enter the MPIN for confirmation.

Cinepax Cinemas - Next Stop Murree The First Cinema of the City

Cinepax, Pakistan’s favorite cinema chain, today announced the opening of 9^th cinema in Pakistan, and the first one in Murree.

Cinepax Murree, has a single screen with a capacity of 300, and promises to offer the visitors signature Cinepax experience comprising impeccable customer service blended with digital movie screening.

Hashim Raza, CEO Cinepax shares his feelings about the addititon of this new cinema,  “Very excited to open Cinepax, a name that is synonymous to quality family entertainment all over Pakistan. In Murree it will not only entertain Murree & surrounding area residents but will also delight tourists vacationing with families.

Millions of people from all walks of life and from all over Pakistan visit Murree, and with the Cinepax Murree their travel experience can now include watching the latest Pakistani and international releases, in addition to the city’s various tourist attractions.

Cinepax in September opened it doors to its seconds cinema in Lahore with a 300 seat multiplex. Cinepax Lakecity and in the next 12 months plans to open five more cinemas across Pakistan.

2016 Consumer Solutions range from Panda, designed for multiple devices and platforms, with more licenses than ever (at the same price), and includes Windows 10 compatibility

The new range of 2016 Consumer Solutions from Panda Security is now available. Panda Gold Security 2016, Panda Global Protection 2016, Panda Internet Security 2016, Panda Antivirus Pro 2016, Panda Mobile Security 2016, Panda Antivirus for Mac 2016, and Panda Free Antivirus 2016 make up the portfolio of Panda solutions for user protection on all devices.

In an increasingly global and multi-device environment, the 2016 Consumer Solutions range is designed to make the digital world easier and more secure. It allows you to hop and browse online safely; protects families against inappropriate content; keeps identities and confidential information safe. The monitoring and optimizing of different devices is now easier than ever with the new Panda products.

“We want the user to be able to perform any activity on the Internet without worrying about cyber criminals, malware or inappropriate content," explains Saima Naeem, Country Manager (Pakistan) at Panda Security. “Not all users are experts or have the same needs. Therefore, we offer various solutions that protect the devices and sensitive information of the user and his family.”

·         Data Shield to prevent the stealing of information relating to the devices. In addition Panda Global Protection 2016 and Panda Gold Protection 2016 allow for the safeguarding of files so no one can access them.

·         Protection of Wi-Fi networks to display the computers on the network and detect intruders. It also allows for network audits to check its safety and potential vulnerabilities, and to block access from unknown computers.

·         USB protection, providing immunization and a protective shield to analyze the USB when inserted into the device.

·         Improved features such as Parental Control; application control, a highly effective protection against zero-day malware; PC recovery system, safe browsing, and password management and an easier, more intuitive interface (Panda Simplexity).