Dawlance and UNIDO’s Safety-Training on HFC R-32 Refrigerant & Equipment

Pakistan (Muhammad Yasir)

Dawlance is the leading manufacturer of high-quality refrigerators, Air-Conditioners and other Home-appliances in Pakistan. Recently, a professional training program on “Safe Handling Practices of HFC R- 32 Refrigerant and Equipment” was organized by the ‘National Ozone Unit’ with the ‘Ministry of Climate Change & Environmental Coordination’ (MoCC&EC), Government of Pakistan. The ‘United Nations Industrial Development Organization’ (UNIDO) and its RRR (Recover, Recycle & Reclaim) project (for proper end-of-life disposal of refrigerants) also contributed to make this program successful, in collaboration with Dawlance.

This training program is developed under HCFC’s (Hydrochlorofluorocarbons) Phase-out Management Plan (HPMP), Stage-II in Pakistan. These sessions were conducted at Karachi, Lahore, Multan and Islamabad. It engaged more than 850 participants (dealer installers, authorized workshops, service branches network) all over Pakistan.

It comprised various training activities including: compressor-changing procedures, application of flammable- refrigerants, system design-differences, best-practices on tube-work & leak-detection, R32 RAC installation demonstrations, Best-practices on R32 air-conditioners services & recovery from RAC.

As a socially responsible enterprise, Dawlance has changed its Refrigerant gas usage from R-410-A to R-32 in its appliances, which is a much safer gas, and it is also recycled for environmental sustainability. Being a wholly-owned subsidiary of Arcelik, the 2nd largest manufacturer in Europe, Dawlance is implementing global best-practices with continuous investments in innovative technologies and professional training for the workforce. It offers unmatched value and benefits for the consumers and the public at large.

The Chief Executive Officer of Dawlance – Umar Ahsan Khan stated: “We are committed to the safety and wellbeing of the community and our consumers. Modern R-32 Service equipment has also been installed at the Dawlance Service Centers for recovery, because releasing it in the air causes pollution & depletion of the Ozone layer – a fragile shield of gas, protecting the Earth from the harmful ultraviolet rays of the sun.

The 7-hour practical training taught safety measures for: Switching to R-32 from R-410A anticipates R-410A’s phase- out, involving design adaptations for electrical/mechanical components and differing gas weights. The R-32 refrigerant offers improved cooling efficiency, energy-conservation and lower flammability. Skilled personnel using appropriate tools, with pre-site preparation can ensure safety of customer premises.

Technical personnel were taught to ensure safety and performance by adhering to: maximum piping and gas-charge limits, considering height differences between indoor & outdoor units, AC room standards and correct flaring practices. Importance of post-installation checks, diagnosing leaks, addressing blockages, evacuating gas, brazing, and utilizing vacuum pumps, is critical for system integrity.

The participants learned cautious maintenance of pressure, functional testing besides storage of cylinders in temperature-controlled environments above 50 degrees. The experts also informed the audience about safety- standards for transportation of cylinders in vehicles.

Infinix Named No. 6 in Fast Company’s World’s Most Innovative Companies of 2024, Asia-Pacific Sector

The only Smartphone Brand That Topped the Chart Globally

 
Pakistan (Muhammad Yasir) Infinix, a trendy tech brand crafted for young consumers, has been recognized as the sixth most innovative company in the Asia-Pacific region by Fast Company in their prestigious annual list of the World’s Most Innovative Companies of 2024. This acknowledgment highlights Infinix’s unwavering dedication to innovation and excellence in the mobile technology industry. The company’s ability to combine cutting-edge technologies with affordable pricing has resonated strongly with consumers in emerging markets. Infinix’s revolutionary 260W fast-charging technologies, alongside AI-powered features such as noise reduction and the Folax virtual assistant, exemplify their commitment to enhancing the user experience.

“We are delighted to be acknowledged by Fast Company as one of the most innovative companies in the Asia-Pacific region and the only smartphone brand to make it on the top 10 list. This recognition is a testament to our relentless pursuit of innovation and our commitment to providing our customers with state-of-the-art mobile technology. In 2024, we introduced the flagship gaming concept, empowering professional gamers to realize their dreams in the esports scene. Just last month, we also launched the Infinix NOTE 40 Series, aiming to deliver the best smartphone experience and be a leader in fast charging technology. All of these achievements are a result of listening to consumer feedback and striving to meet their demands,” said Tony Zhao, General Manager of Infinix.

Fast Company’s World’s Most Innovative Companies is a highly regarded franchise and one of the most anticipated editorial efforts of the year. The editors and writers at Fast Company identified the companies driving progress worldwide and across various industries, assessing thousands of submissions through a competitive application process. The result is a comprehensive guide to today’s innovation landscape, encompassing early-stage startups to some of the most valuable companies in the world.

“Despite the global slowdown in the growth of startups and large technology companies last year, these ten companies not only provided solutions for regional challenges in the Asia-Pacific region but also expanded their presence across borders,” stated Fast Company.

Infinix is proud to be recognized as a successful tech brand globally through these achievements as it shares the ranks with global tech companies such as Nvidia, Microsoft, YouTube, OpenAI and many more. Once considered a quieter player in its market, Infinix now stands among the world’s top brands, solidifying its status as a globally recognized tech powerhouse, shaping the future of technology.

Hot off the press
Infinix’s innovative approach has secured its sixth position in Fast Company’s World’s Most Innovative Companies of 2024, Asia-Pacific Sector. The company’s commitment to innovation is evident in its groundbreaking 260W fast-charging technologies, which have set new standards for charging speeds. Furthermore, Infinix’s integration of AI-powered noise reduction technologies and the Folax virtual assistant enhances user interactions and convenience.
 
The recent launch of Infinix’s NOTE 40 Series has significantly contributed to its recognition for innovation. The NOTE 40 Series showcases the latest advancements in charging technology, including the All-Round FastCharge 2.0 powered by the revolutionary Cheetah X1 chip. This technology enables fast and efficient charging, providing users with a seamless charging experience.

Investing in the future
Infinix’s innovative spirit extends to its marketing strategies, with a focus on supporting STEM programs and coding camps. Collaborations with UNESCO and Google highlight the company’s commitment to driving positive change. With a track record of delivering cutting-edge products and a dedication to innovation, Infinix continues to lead the way in the globe, including the Asia-Pacific tech industry.
 
In addition to its product innovations, Infinix is making strides in corporate social responsibility (CSR) through its UNESCO CogLabs program. This initiative aims to empower young minds through technology by providing access to educational resources and opportunities. By supporting initiatives like UNESCO CogLabs, Infinix demonstrates its commitment to driving positive change in the communities it serves.

Dubai Islamic Bank Signs Tripartite MOU for RAAST Payment to Merchant (P2M)

Pakistan (Muhammad Yasir)

Dubai Islamic Bank, ARY Services & MAK Global have collaborated and signed a tri-partite MOU to launch RAAST P2M (Payment to Merchants) services in Pakistan. Signing Ceremony was held at Dubai Islamic Bank Head Office in Karachi. The MOU was signed by Wamiq Rizvi Chief Operating Officer, Dubai Islamic Bank, Haji Muhammad Iqbal, Chairman ARY Group and Haider Rizvi CEO, MAK Global in the presence of Senior Executives from the respective organizations.

This collaboration will revolutionize Digital Payment acceptance for all type of merchants and businesses in Pakistan. The game changing initiative is part of State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) working to boost Financial Inclusion in the country while giving merchants an offering of instant payment system at a very nominal cost.

 

 

TCL Unveils Next-Generation UHD TV P755

TCL Unveils Next-Generation UHD TV P755, Redefining Home Entertainment with Cutting-Edge Features.

Lahore (Muhammad Yasir) TCL, Pakistan’s No.1 LED TV Brand, is thrilled to announce the launch of its latest innovation in home entertainment, the UHD TV P755. Designed to deliver an immersive viewing experience like never before, the TCL P755 combines state-of-the-art technology with sleek design, setting new standards for picture quality, sound performance, and smart functionality.

Shop Now: https://bit.ly/38VQp6z

The TCL UHD TV P755 boasts a stunning 4K UHD resolution, providing viewers with crisp, lifelike images that bring every scene to life. With support for HDR 10+ and Dolby Vision, the P755 enhances contrast, colour accuracy, and brightness, ensuring unparalleled visual clarity and realism.

In addition to its exceptional picture quality, the TCL P755 features Dolby Atmos technology, delivering immersive, multidimensional sound that fills the room with breathtaking audio. Whether watching movies, gaming, or streaming music, viewers can enjoy an unparalleled audio-visual experience right in their living room.

Powered by Google TV, the TCL P755 offers seamless access to a world of content, apps, and games, all conveniently organized and personalized to suit each user’s preferences. With Google Assistant built-in, users can easily search for content, control smart home devices, and get answers to questions using simple voice commands.

Gamers will appreciate the P755’s 120 Hz Game Accelerator, which reduces input lag and motion blur for smooth, responsive gameplay. Whether playing fast-paced action games or exploring expansive open worlds, gamers can enjoy a competitive edge with the TCL P755.

Equipped with TCL’s AiPQ Processor, the P755 intelligently optimizes picture quality in real-time, enhancing detail, colour accuracy, and contrast for an unparalleled viewing experience. Whether streaming content, watching live TV, or playing games, viewers can enjoy stunning visuals with every frame.

Adding to its smart functionality, the TCL P755 features hands-free voice control, allowing users to control their TV and connected devices with simple voice commands. From adjusting volume and changing channels to searching for content and more, users can enjoy a hands-free entertainment experience.

“The TCL UHD TV P755 represents the next evolution in home entertainment, combining cutting-edge technology with intuitive features to deliver an unparalleled viewing experience,” said Majid Khan Niazi, Director of Marketing, TCL Middle East and Africa. “With its stunning picture quality, immersive sound, and smart functionality, the P755 is designed to elevate every aspect of the home entertainment experience.”

The TCL UHD TV P755 is now available for purchase at select retailers and online stores. For more information about the P755 and other TCL products, please visit TCL Website.

TikTok Ad Awards

TikTok Ad Awards: celebrating creative excellence on the platform across METAP markets.

Pakistan (Muhammad Yasir) Today TikTok is proud to announce the launch of the first-ever TikTok Ad Awards in the METAP region. The awards program is designed to celebrate the brands and agencies leading the way on TikTok with their creative and high-performing campaigns, as well as embracing the unique nature of TikTok and delivering exceptional advertising experiences.

The Awards will showcase some of the most inspiring advertising campaigns that have brought authenticity, creativity and joy to the platform while achieving groundbreaking results. The initiative aims to acknowledge exceptional talent and innovation within the region.

The TikTok Ad Awards is now open for submissions from brands and agencies based in the METAP region, encompassing Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Egypt, Turkey, South Africa and Pakistan. The program features six main categories that encompass various aspects of successful TikTok campaigns.

  1. It’s the Creative for me: Focuses on the idea and its strategy, and celebrates the brands and agencies that dared to push the boundaries of creativity with campaigns that were built TikTok-first, and showcased impactful results.
  2. Community Core: Celebrates the best use of Creators and the community. Shows how creators can use their unique voices and content styles seamlessly within your campaign idea.
  3. Bougie on a Budget: This category is for campaigns with the most creative use of modest production budgets and resources through both paid and organic content with community management to create maximum impact.
  4. Sound On Please!: Celebrates campaigns that use sound as an entry-point to their creative idea. There are so many different types of sound, different uses of sound, and likewise different creative approaches to sound on TikTok.
  5. The Trendsetter: Reimagine advertising through TikTok, showcasing your innovation and ability to captivate audiences and drive bold effective ideas through the unique utilization of ad products with a measurable impact on the platform.
  6. The People’s Choice: Chosen through a voting by the guests of the ceremony. The highest accolade – The Greatest Of All Time (The G.O.A.T) – will be presented to the best overall campaign that excels in creativity, achieves its media objectives and demonstrates effectiveness. This award aims to recognize campaigns that really tapped into TikTok’s community, creativity and trends to inspire joy and create cultural moments. All applications submitted under any of the six main categories will be automatically considered for the G.O.A.T.

Brands and agencies can find all the program details and submit their entries at https://tiktok-ad-awards.evessiocloud.com/. The deadline for entry submission is September 6, 2024, giving participants ample time to prepare and showcase their creativity, authenticity, and impact. The winners will be revealed in November.

“We are thrilled to launch the TikTok Ad Awards METAP to recognize and celebrate the outstanding creativity showcased by brands and agencies on our platform across the region,” said Shadi Kandil, General Manager, Global Business Solutions, Middle East, Turkey, Africa, Central and South Asia – TikTok. “This awards program aims to highlight the campaigns that push boundaries, captivate audiences, and drive meaningful impact. We can’t wait to see the exceptional submissions from the METAP markets.”

 

24th ITCN Asia to be held on April 18-20 in Lahore

Lahore (Muhammad Yasir)

The 24th edition of ITCN Asia, Pakistan’s biggest IT and
telecom expo and conference, will take place on April 18–20 at Expo
Center in Lahore. State Minister for IT & Telecom Shaza Khawaja will
be the chief guest and HE Deemah Al Yahya, Secretary General of
Digital Cooperation Organization will be the global guest of honor at
the inauguration of the three-day trade fair.

A delegation of International Investors from 12 countries with an
investment fund of $500 million has scheduled its visit to this event,
which is a testament to Pakistan’s lucrative technology ecosystem.

The event will host more than 700 booths, including leading global and
Pakistani tech giants Microsoft, Inbox, Redhat, TP-Link, Lenovo, HP,
Netsol, Abacus, Dell, etc. More than 250 global speakers will be
sharing insights in over 20 knowledge sessions, including the AI
Summit, Global Security Symposium, Gaming Roundtable, Skills
Roundtable, Investor Summit, Digital Health, Proptech, Freelancer
Summit, Made in Pakistan Roundtable, etc.

Event Director ITCN Asia Umair Nizam said the IT, telecom, and
associated industries are entering a unique promising era in Pakistan,
as the country is embracing technological trends and modern
applications in every aspect of life.

On the direction of SIFC and the policies of the current, the
Pakistani tech ecosystem is entering new markets in the Gulf region
while solidifying its existing western markets at the same time, he
added.

ITCN Asia will maintain its tradition to serve as the largest platform
for all stakeholders of the tech ecosystem, including policymakers,
foreign investors, global tech giants, telecom operators, and
consumers, providing them exciting opportunities to explore the latest
trends in accordance with their interests and requirements.

The event will be supported by the Ministry of IT and Telecom, the
Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), Special Investment
Facilitation Council (SIFC), the Pakistan Software Export Board
(PSEB), and the Pakistan IT Industry Association (P@SHA).

Infinix NOTE 40 Series vs. the Competition: Why It Stands Out

Lahore (Muhammad Yasir) Smartphone enthusiasts have now a plethora of options, each promising cutting-edge features, and top-notch performance. From established giants to emerging contenders, the market is brimming with choices catering to diverse needs and preferences. In this article, we delve into a comparison of some notable contenders, concluding with a spotlight on the Infinix NOTE 40 Pro and its exceptional offerings.

Starting our exploration is the OPPO 78, boasting impressive specifications with a price tag of PKR 71,999. Powered by the Snapdragon 680 4G processor, it offers 8GB of RAM and 256GB of internal storage. Its 6.43-inch AMOLED display delivers vibrant visuals, complemented by a 50MP+2MP rear camera setup. While it features a generous 5000mAh battery with 67W Supercharging, it lacks support for wireless charging and reverse charging.

Next in line is the Xiaomi Redmi NOTE 13 Pro, priced at PKR 74,999. Equipped with the MTK G99 Ultra processor, it packs 8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage. Its standout feature is the impressive 200MP+8MP+2MP rear camera array, paired with a 6.67-inch FHD+ display boasting a 120Hz refresh rate. Despite its 5000mAh battery capacity, it falls short with only 33W charging support and lacks wireless and reverse charging capabilities.

Venturing into the realm of Samsung, we encounter the A34 (5G), priced at PKR 114,999. Powered by the MTK Dimensity 1080 processor, it offers 8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage. Its Super AMOLED 6.6-inch display impresses with a 120Hz refresh rate, accompanied by a versatile 48MP+8MP+5MP rear camera setup. However, its 5000mAh battery supports only 25W charging, and it also lacks wireless and reverse charging features.
Concluding our comparison, the Infinix NOTE 40 Pro stands out with its extraordinary features, priced competitively at just PKR 69,999. Featuring the revolutionary 20W Wireless MagCharge technology, the Infinix NOTE 40 Pro provides users with an efficient charging experience, eliminating the hassle of dealing with cables and providing convenient charging wherever you go. The NOTE 40 Pro also comes equipped with cutting-edge 70W All-Round FastCharge 2.0 technology, ensuring lightning-fast charging speeds that keep pace with today’s dynamic lifestyles.

Armed with the MediaTek Helio G99 Ultimate processor the NOTE 40 Pro guarantees unparalleled performance. With 256GB of storage, users have ample space to store all their data without concerns about storage limitations. And up to 24GB of expanded RAM, the device effortlessly handles even the most demanding tasks, ensuring smooth operation and seamless transitions between applications. Whereas on the other hand the NOTE 40 offers up to 16 GB of expandable RAM, 45 W All-Round FastCharge Technology 2.0, and a 120Hz Amoled Display.

 
This premium-looking NOTE 40 Pro shines with its 3D curved 6.78-inch FHD+120Hz AMOLED Display, offering an immersive visual experience. Its impressive 108MP+2MP+AF OIS Super-Zoom rear camera setup allows users to capture moments with stunning clarity.

 
Setting it apart from its competitors, the NOTE 40 Pro offers multiple charging modes, enabling users to stay powered throughout the day. Along with the 20W Wireless MagCharge it also offers reverse charging functionality, adding to its versatility. Infinix NOTE 40 series, with its promise of diverse yet multiple charging modes, stands as a testament to the brand’s commitment to empowering users, offering them the autonomy to lead their lives without constraints.

In a market flooded with options, the Infinix NOTE 40 Pro emerges as a compelling choice, offering a blend of top-tier specifications, innovative features, and competitive pricing. With its exceptional charging capabilities, immersive display, and powerful camera setup, it stands poised to redefine the smartphone experience for users seeking performance and value. Starting from an unbelievable price of PKR 54,999 Infinix NOTE 40 series is available to purchase at outlets Nationwide.

inDrive Partners with Hands Foundation

inDrive Partners with Hands Foundation for inDrive “Ride-to-Donate” campaign to serve the neglected communities.

Karachi (Muhammad Yasir) In an effort to make a meaningful impact on communities in need, inDrive is proud to announce its partnership with Hands Foundation to partner with the Ride to Donate campaign.  Through Ride to Donate, inDrive users contributed to charitable projects simply by using the inDrive app for their transportation needs. The “Ride-to-Donate” project aims to proceed with a 10% donation on every fourth ride to the Hands Foundation, supporting their initiatives focused on community development.

“We are thrilled to partner with Hands Foundation to launch the Ride to Donate initiative,” said Ms.Sidra Kiran, PR and Communication Manager at inDrive.”We believe that by mobilizing our community through purpose-driven initiatives like Ride to Donate, we can amplify our impact and inspire others to join us in building a more equitable society,” Ms. Sidra Kiran added enthusiastically. “This partnership reflects our commitment to fight social injustice and empowering our neglected communities to make a positive difference in their lives.”

Hands Foundation is renowned for its impactful projects and unwavering dedication to serving marginalized communities. By joining forces with inDrive, the organization aims to expand its reach and create lasting change in the lives of those in need.

“We are grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with inDrive on the Ride to Donate initiative,” said Spoke person at Hands Foundation. “Together, we can harness the collective power of individuals and technology to address pressing social challenges and create a brighter future for all.”

The Ride to Donate initiative was launched to serve the communities where users can simply participate by the ‘Ride to Donate’ banner within the inDrive app. Every ride taken during the campaign contributes to making a difference in the lives of others.

 

Announcing Coke Studio Season 15

Lahore (Muhammad Yasir) Coke Studio announces Season 15, set to release on April 14th, 2024. Awarded as Pakistan’s biggest cultural export by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Coke Studio Season 15, featuring eleven original songs, will reflect the diversity of Pakistani culture, languages, genre and experiences, anchored in Pakistan’s passion and love for music.

With powerhouse producer and curator Zulfiqar (Xulfi) Jabbar Khan at the helm, each song in Season 15 is a collaboration, a story woven with threads of artistry and fraternity. The upcoming season will build on a legacy of compelling visual storytelling by some of Pakistan’s most progressive directors, including Awais Gohar, Murtaza Niaz, Jamal Rahman, Zain Peerzada, and Luke Azariah, alongside Coke Studio stalwarts Zeeshan Parwez and Kamal Khan.

“This season celebrates the enduring power of art, the power of music – the power of love, of warmth and of connection. Each story and world is built on Pakistan’s rich and diverse tapestry: both its heritage and future, fostering a sense of shared identity.” said Xulfi.

Volkan Onguc, Vice President of Coca-Cola Pakistan & Afghanistan Region, said, “Coke Studio is etched into the country’s musical DNA. Now a global platform, Coke Studio is set to build on the same legacy of showcasing the incredible talent and artistry of Pakistani musicians to the world.”

With over 24 million subscribers, over 5 billion views on digital platforms, and streaming in over 180 countries, Pakistan’s Coke Studio has been credited with bridging barriers and nurturing culture within South Asia, fostering a sense of unity and appreciation for shared heritage. Coke Studio launched in 2008 in Pakistan featuring established and emerging artists from various genres, quickly gained a large and loyal following, and expanded into an international music franchise.

The season reveal video can be viewed here:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ysCxvEJ7bzQ

The first song of Coke Studio Season 15 will be released on 14th April 2024.

In the meantime, be sure to listen to your favorite songs from Coke Studio on Spotify https://open.spotify.com and keep yourself logged on to https://www.tiktok.com/@cokestudiopakistan, https://www.youtube.com/@cokestudio  and https://www.instagram.com/coke_studio to follow the Coke Studio journey.