Unfolding the story of gaming phones

Unfolding the story of gaming phones: from humble beginnings to high-performance powerhouses

Lahore (Muhammad Yasir)  The rise of gaming phones exemplifies how mobile technology relentlessly innovates to cater to the expanding world of mobile gaming. From their uncertain origins to the cutting-edge devices of today, gaming phones have undergone a remarkable transformation, driven by innovation and the search for immersive gaming experiences. Despite these significant advancements globally, consumers residing in Pakistan have had limited options when it comes to gaming phones.

Tracing back to the humble beginnings of gaming phones, characterized by devices featuring monochrome screens and basic processors, to the current era of game-centric devices boasting robust processors and vibrant displays, we’ve witnessed a paradigm shift in mobile gaming.

The era of gaming phones began in the late 1990s with simple mobile games like Snake and Tetris. In 2000, Nintendo’s Game Boy became popular, leading Nokia to release the N-Gage in 2003. However, it failed to meet expectations and sold only 2-3 million units by 2007 due to design flaws and limited game support.
About six months after the N-Gage launch, Nokia released the N-Gage QD, addressing many of the previous devices’ issues. However, it lacked stereo speakers, FM radio, and MP3 playback. These devices provided gaming enthusiasts with brief moments of escape, but they had limitations such as basic graphics, limited gameplay, and other constraints imposed by the hardware capabilities of phones of that era.

In 2007, the debut of the iPhone opened a new era for mobile gaming. Equipped with color screens and more powerful processors, it provided better gaming experiences. Trendy games like Angry Birds and Candy Crush needed touchscreens and more advanced graphics to engage users. However, these devices were not specifically designed for gaming, leading to issues like battery drain, overheating, and limited game performance.

Several attempts have been made to create a true mobile gaming phone, such as devices with dedicated gaming keys like the Samsung SPH-B5200 in 2006, the Sony Ericsson Xperia Play in 2011, and the iReadyGo knockoffs of PS Vita clones in 2013. However, these phones had limited success, leading to the consensus that dedicated gaming keys were not the right approach.

In 2015, Acer announced the Acer Predator 6, a gaming phone with the latest processor, ample RAM, a sharp HD display, and four front-facing speakers. Although it never launched, it set a precedent for future gaming phones. In 2017 and 2018, notable gaming phones were released, including the Razer Phone, ZTE Nubia Red Magic, Xiaomi Black Shark, and the new Asus ROG. These devices aimed to maximize performance with the best available processors and RAM, large battery capacities, HD and high refresh rate displays, advanced cooling systems, and substantial internal memory capacities of up to 512GB, as seen in the ROG.

These phones offered smoother gameplay, longer battery life, and improved graphics. However, despite these advancements, challenges such as high costs and the need for continuous hardware upgrades persisted. The availability of these phones was always a concern, as they were only accessible in specific regions worldwide, leaving people in Pakistan unable to purchase them.

Hence, the quest for the perfect gaming phone still prevails but until recently there has been news of huge advancements in the gaming phone market with Infinix launching their GT 20 PRO in Pakistan. This is going to be the first gaming phone launched specifically for the audience in Pakistan. The phone is expected to have all the sought-after gaming features.

One of these features is the dual gaming chipset, the Dimensity 8200 Ultimate 4nm 5G Processor, and a dedicated gaming display chip. Both designed to effectively address slow hardware issues, and deliver a seamless, lag-free gaming experience. This ensures you can play powerful games like PUBG on your phone without stuttering.

The evolution of gaming phones has been consistent, transforming from simple devices into powerful gaming machines. With continuous advancements on the horizon and groundbreaking devices like the Infinix GT 20 Pro leading the way, the future of mobile gaming promises to be even more exciting and immersive.

Businesses urged to take steps to maximise the opportunities of AI

Businesses urged to take steps to maximise the opportunities of AI and lay foundations for responsible use of new technologies.

Lahore (Muhammad Yasir) Chief executive officers (CEOs) and chief financial officers (CFOs) need to build trust in artificial intelligence (AI) by taking steps in their organisations to manage the associated risks.

As AI plays a greater role in the accounting and financial reporting of businesses, CFOs and financial controllers will have to be confident about the adequacy of oversight and controls of AI systems.In the first in a series of insights, AI monitor: trust, ACCA urges finance professionals to ensure that AI governance and AI risk management is in place, beginning with:

Investing in AI literacy and skills development: finance professionals must invest in education and training to critically evaluate AI outputs, communicate clearly with key stakeholders, and make informed decisions. Collaborating via cross-functional teams: finance professionals should actively engage with IT, data science, legal and risk management teams. 

Developing an AI governance framework: beginning with critical uses, finance professionals should take steps within their organisation to establish clear policies, oversight and governance practices.

AI presents many opportunities to businesses such as providing more insights from a wider array of information sources, driving greater efficiency and better customer experiences. But it also poses a challenge to trust in accounting and finance reporting with new dynamics being introduced to the traditional trust mechanisms that underpin corporate accounting.

Alistair Brisbourne, Head of Technology Research, ACCA, said: ‘Introducing AI is both about trust in the systems and trust in the people that we work with, and how we bring those two elements together.

‘CEOs and CFOs need to focus on making the changes needed to harness the many potential opportunities but also retain trust. This includes upskilling to deal with the technology and introducing new knowledge into their organisations. They also need to focus on the governance, the oversight and culture required to allow different teams to work together effectively. It’s about bringing change management and governance together.’

AI monitor: trust highlights some of the risks of AI in accounting systems, such as:Impacting decision making without clearly explaining the rationale of the forecast or recommendation;An over-dependence on AI procedures in auditing and assurance and a decline in use of human intervention and judgement;

Concern over AI bias or error in fraud detection, risk assessment and compliance monitoring;

Over relying on AI-powered virtual assistants which give inaccurate or inappropriate responses.

Brisbourne said: ‘In the AI era the role of finance professionals is to focus on the outcomes driven by technology. Value lies in understanding how these outputs inform decisions and actions that drive business outcomes.’In 2024 issues of the AI monitor will explore talent, risk and controls, the relevance of effective data strategy, and sustainability applications.

 

Read Enabling trust in an AI-enhanced world.

24th ITCN Asia: Govt is encouraging investments in ICT, says Shaza Fatima Khawaja

Pakistan (Muhammad Yasir)

Shaza Fatima Khawja said the government is encouraging investment in
information and communication technologies (ICTs) through its multiple
flagship projects such as Special Technology Zones (STZs), the
national plan of fiberization across the country, and facilitation for
the affordability of fast broadband internet and smart digital devices
to the masses.

Speaking as the Chief Guest at the 24th edition of ITCN Asia,
“Declaring Pakistan as the Regional ICT Hub,” she said the government
intended to expand its efforts for local manufacturing of laptops
through policy to provide affordable access to digital devices to the
masses and its exports to different countries in the future.

The government is eager to provide an ecosystem to foreign and local
IT companies and investors through policymaking, legislation, skill
development, and infrastructure to tap into the host of opportunities
in Pakistan, she added. Additionally, the government is working
exclusively for inclusivity for the female population to enhance their
participation in the economy through opportunities in education and
IT.

State Minister said that the Special Investment Facilitation Council
(SIFC) has a crucial role in providing trust to stakeholders in the IT
industry, helping to improve hurdles and barriers, and achieving goals
to facilitate business and the growth of the IT industry.

She mentioned that the government formulated the National Digital
Commission to drive the digital ecosystem across the country in three
verticals, including economy, governance, and society, which will also
provide unimaginable opportunities for the private sector.

I am looking forward to IT companies enhancing their contribution to
the global footprint with the support of the government to make
Pakistan a regional and global tech hub, she remarked.

State Minister praised the role of ITCN Asia for providing a
resourceful platform to the public sector institutions, local and
multinational IT companies, foreign investors and delegates to shape
up the direction of IT and telecom sector for the past 24 years

Pakistan has become a member of the Digital Corporation Organization
(DCO), aiming to be a leading partner in the global IT ecosystem
through its high-end services and products.

Deemah Al Yahya, Secretary General of the of the Digital Cooperation
Organization (DCO), said Pakistan has been proactively at the
forefront of harnessing digital transformation to strengthen its
digital economy, which is projected to add $5.9 billion by 2030 to its
economy.

She lauded Pakistan’s initiatives in the digital FDI alliance and its
efforts to set up a conducive environment, infrastructure, and skilled
development of human capital for investors and tech giants.

Pakistan has a crucial role in its region as well as the western
region when it comes to software export as well as the right framework
for collaboration and digital transformation, she said and added.
Pakistan is positioning itself as a magnet for global capital as it is
one of the leading countries for freelancers to thrive in the in the
global gig economy.

Secretary DCO urged Pakistani stakeholders for mutual efforts to
achieve a digital realm that serves humanity worldwide under the
platform of the DCO that connects governments, civil societies, and
academia to gain economic dividends.

Additional Secretary IT and Acting CEO Pakistan Software Export Board
(PSEB), Ayesha Humera Morani, said Pakistan is a lucrative destination
for local and foreign IT companies with its talented human resources,
strategic location, and investor-friendly policy.

The Pakistani IT sector has the potential to serve east and west, as
its workforce could work in double shifts. 24/7. The country could
provide a digital corridor that could connect the Middle East to
Europe and Africa, she said and added. Our country provides
opportunities to multinational companies to save 70% of operational
costs annually.

Chairman PASHA Muhammad Zohaib, Country Education Lead Microsoft
Jibran Jamshed, Adeel Aijaz Sheikh, CEO Ignite, Chairman Netsol Salim
Ghori, Secretary General Islamic Chamber of Commerce Industries and
Agriculture Yousef Hasan Khalawi, and Vice President Ecommerce Gateway
Muhammad Umair Nizam also spoke on the occasion.

EXPLORE THE FAIRY TALE MAGIC OF THE NIMBUS ISLANDS IN PUBG MOBILE’S VERSION 3.1 UPDATE

PUBG MOBILE celebrates its six year anniversary with the new Version 3.1 Update, featuring:

  • The Nimbus Islands: Explore Day Island and Night Island, find the Auspicious Vault Key, ride a Flying Carpet, summon a magical Genie, and more.
  • Cycle 6 Season 17 arrives, bringing an array of exciting updates and enhancements.
  • Additions and improvements to World of Wonder, with new Fairy Tale parts, dynamic rain and snow weather effects, and new ways for players to design their dream homes.
  • Metro Royale updates, including Treasure Ship areas and new Chapter 19 collectibles.
  • New partnerships, including Spy x Family, a new luxury car partner, and more yet to be announced.

Pakistan (Muhammad Yasir)  PUBG MOBILE, one of the world’s most popular mobile games, has unveiled  new hidden treasures with the release of its Version 3.1 Update. Until May 12th, players can now experience the new themed mode Skyhigh Spectacle and battle across the Nimbus Islands, a pair of islands offering players unique ways to engage in intense battles and strategic gameplay. Metro Royale Chapter 19 also receives updates and fixes, whilst World of Wonder sees new improvements, including an all-new feature allowing players to design their own dream homes inside PUBG MOBILE.

The Version 3.1 Update, which releases in line with PUBG MOBILE’s sixth anniversary, sees the Nimbus Islands invite PUBG MOBILE players to vary their gameplay. The Nimbus Islands offer different combat experiences, while Sky Isle (Day) is illuminated and ideal for intense firefights, Sky Isle (Night) provides a darker, stealthier setting.

As players jump into the fray on the Erangel, Livik, and Miramar maps, they will encounter two portals in the sky along the flight path, transporting them to the Nimbus Island of their choice. Upon reaching the Nimbus Islands, a countdown timer starts; if eliminated on the islands, players will parachute directly back to the main match.  After the countdown, the islands disappear, becoming unavailable for the rest of the match. With ample supplies scattered across the islands, PUBG MOBILE players can gear up for intense battles on the Nimbus Islands or opt for a tactical retreat through the portal and back to the main match.

You can also summon a Genie on the Nimbus Islands. Alongside summoning a Genie to receive bountiful rewards and Respawn Card, players can also experience the whimsical Flying Carpet vehicle. With its groundbreaking Ground/Air Flight Switch feature, players can seamlessly transition between ground and air travel. While on the ground, the carpet glides smoothly, allowing the backseat passenger to participate in combat; however, once airborne, shooting is disabled, compelling players to hold on tightly as the carpet performs exhilarating aerial manoeuvres. Players can also recall the Flying Carpet once they reach a certain distance, or release it if desired, providing new tactical opportunities on the battleground. When a Flying Carpet is unoccupied, players can use emotes near the carpet, causing it to dance with them, with further Flying Carpet interactions for PUBG MOBILE players to explore and discover.   
The Nimbus Islands also introduces the flying Sky Treasure Ship, capable of journeying on a set route to different locations. Operating on a predetermined path, the Sky Treasure Ship pauses at each boarding point along its route for players to hop aboard, and sporadically releases numerous rewards at these boarding points, enticing players with valuable loot.

The Version 3.1 Update also brings a variety of new weapons and tactical items in themed game mode, including the Grooving grenade, a new throwable that will summon a Genie and create a temporary dancing zone, and the Portal Staff, which can create two portals for quick mid-range transportation and teammate rescues. Each player is also equipped with a Treasure Map, enabling them to locate both common and rare crates containing various supplies during the match, with the added possibility of discovering the elusive Treasure Vault Key, which will grant access to rare supplies when used to unlock the Auspicious Treasure Vault.

Miramar also receives a significant update in Version 3.1, including new areas, gas station updates, and new ziplines, alongside the introduction of potential sandstorms. The Truck Stop and Partona areas are now integrated into Miramar, and gas stations across the map now offer vehicle refuelling services, allowing players to replenish fuel using tokens. A new Trade Shop has also emerged, and will purchase five specific types of items from players each match, with a small amount of items also available for players to purchase.

The P90 firearm also returns to being the first SMG available in air drop crates. This updated version of the P90 will exclusively spawn in air drop crates, and utilises a distinctive 5.7mm ammo, with a high rate of fire and minimal recoil offering exceptional performance.  Cycle 6 Season 17 also arrives in the Version 3.1 Update, bringing forth an array of exciting updates and enhancements, including the introduction of new legendary items, promising players an elevated experience with exclusive rewards.

The Version 3.1 Update also sees new additions to the World of Wonder creative mode as it celebrates its one year anniversary, with new Fairy Tale elements including pirate ships, cannons, telescopes, and more, alongside new rainy and snowy weather, and an all-new Home system.

Unlike World of Wonder’s limited access, Home is open to all players, allowing them to construct their dream home, fostering creativity and community engagement on a grand scale. The Home tab, which can be found on the World of Wonders page, offers players the unique chance to design and build their own dream homes within PUBG MOBILE! Decorate your home with a variety of interactable items including chairs, sofas, beds, lamps, two-seater swings, speakers, guitars, pianos, violins, and more. Each home also features its own butler. Players are also able to browse and visit their friends’ homes, join forces to edit homes with up to four people online, explore featured homes, and check home rankings.

Furthermore, a Home Shop has been added to the Cheer Park, enabling players to purchase home items. Players can also use a special Home token to participate in Lucky Spins and win exclusive furniture and items for their homes. Complete home missions to win fabulous rewards, and utilise camera modes to save images of your home to your mobile phones and in-game home photo albums.

Additionally, the new Metro Royale Chapter will be available from March 14th to May 12th. Players can enjoy Treasure Ship areas and Balloon Crates added to Misty Port and Arctic Base maps, alongside new Chapter 19 collectibles.

Players can also look forward to an exciting upcoming collaboration with the highly acclaimed anime and manga series Spy x Family, as well as another partnership with a yet to be announced new luxury car manufacturer coming soon. Stay tuned for more details!

Complete information about what’s included in PUBG MOBILE’s Version 3.1 Update can be found in the official patch notes available here.

PUBG MOBILE’s Version 3.1 Update will be available on March 12th! Download the game and play for free on the App Store and Google Play Store.

Tecno Unveils Cutting-Edge AI and AR Flagship Products at MWC 2024

TECNO, the globally recognized mobile phone company known for its dedication to innovative technology and cutting-edge gadgets, made a significant debut at the Mobile World Conference (MWC) in Barcelona in 2023. The company introduced the widely acclaimed PHANTOM V Fold, marking its foray into the domain of foldable smartphones. This year, TECNO returns to the event with a mission to showcase tomorrow’s technologies under the theme “Reach for the Future,” promising an exciting glimpse into what lies ahead.

MWC Barcelona, occurring annually, draws tens of thousands of senior executives from leading global companies, international governments, and groundbreaking tech businesses. It serves as a decisive platform where novel ideas seamlessly transition into lucrative business deals. The event not only facilitates valuable networking opportunities but also nurtures remarkable connections among diverse stakeholders.

This prestigious event stands as the world’s largest and most influential connectivity gathering, acting as a convergence point for global mobile operators, device manufacturers, technology providers, vendors, content owners, and tech enthusiasts.

TECNO unveiled the PHANTOM Ultimate Prototype with a Rollable Display at this year’s Conference 2024 in Barcelona. The brand provided a hands-on experience to the participants and content creators, showcasing its state of the art products. The device features a 6.55-inch display that elegantly wraps around the left edge. With the simple push of a button, a remarkable 7.11-inch AMOLED screen swiftly extends from the handset in just 1.3 seconds, presenting a tablet-sized display that offers a more versatile and immersive viewing experience.

When retracted, the handset features a unique double-sided display. The display horizontally wraps around the back of the handset, presenting essential information such as time and notifications. With a thickness of 9.93mm, the TECNOPHANTOM Ultimate strikes a perfect balance between sleek design and cutting-edge technology.

TECNO also made waves at the conference by introducing its soon-to-be-launched POVA 6 Pro 5G, a gaming smartphone that pushes the boundaries of performance. Powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 6080 SoC and boasting up to 12GB of RAM, this device ensures seamless and powerful gaming experiences.

A robust 6,000mAh battery, supported by a rapid 70W charging feature, ensures that downtime is minimal. The smartphone goes beyond gaming, offering an immersive audio experience with Dolby Atmos spatial sound technology. The photographic capabilities are equally impressive, with a triple rear camera setup headlined by a stunning 108-megapixel primary sensor, promising excellent clarity and detail in every shot. TECNO’s POVA 6 Pro 5G not only caters to gamers but also stands out as a versatile and high-performance device in the competitive smartphone landscape.

 

This futuristic brand has truly elevated the bar of advancement with another remarkable introductions, AI-backed robot dog called Dynamic 1, powered by artificial intelligence. From smart home entertainment to assistance, education, and training, its intelligent, user-friendly functionalities make Dynamic 1 the perfect pet-like companion of the future. It has a smart headlight system that both illuminates its path and serves as an indicator for interaction. Furthermore, four microphones and advanced AI-driven voice recognition algorithms ensure outstanding voice control responsiveness and even more intuitive interaction.

The robot features a RealSense™ D430 depth camera, dual optical sensors, and infrared sensors for obstacle detection and navigation. It’s powered by an 8-core ARM CPU, ensuring stability, post-fall recovery, and speeds of up to 3.7m/s. Additionally, it has 64GB onboard storage, WI-FI 6, Bluetooth 5.2, and a 15000mAh battery for 90 minutes of use. Its modular design allows quick battery exchanges and simultaneous charging to minimize downtime.

The showcase of this comprehensive lineup along with the industry’s first combined AR glasses and Windows gaming handheld set, innovative concept materials, and AloT devices, reflects TECNO’s commitment to providing a range of choices, ensuring users find the perfect blend of performance and features to suit their individual preferences.  It also reflects the brand’s relentless momentum on the global stage. Guided by its “Stop at Nothing” brand essence, TECNO’s innovative spirit is unlocking boundless possibilities, bringing the future closer for users worldwide.

PUBG MOBILE Takes Flight With Bou Kata! Kite Festival

Pakistan (Muhammad Yasir)

PUBG MOBILE, one of the world’s most popular mobile games, continues its tradition of commemorating Pakistan’s cultural heritage with the launch of the BOU KATA! PUBG MOBILE! – a kite festival-themed event running from February 20 to March 10. This event marks another chapter in the battle royale game’s ongoing dedication to immersing gamers in the vibrant tapestry of Pakistani culture.

PUBG MOBILE is renowned for integrating a diverse range of in-game-themed activities dedicated to Pakistani culture, spanning from tourism and wedding outfits to film and cricket. As spring unfolds across most parts of Pakistan, the Basant festival brings the euphoria of kite flying.

Speaking about the initiative, Khawar Naeem, Country Head Pakistan, Level Infinite, said, “To maintain its reputation for innovative and interactive themed activities, PUBG MOBILE has introduced an exhilarating in-game Kite Duel activity. Gamers are experiencing the true essence of Basant with the iconic song ‘Dil Hua Bou Kata’ by renowned singer Fariha Pervez playing during the activity, evoking nostalgic memories of the festival. They also have the chance to win Daraz gift cards worth Rs10,000. Additionally, the Kite Festival Wishing Activity offers generous prize pools, and the Kite Festival Card Flipping Activity adds an element of excitement and luck to the event.”

In addition to the Kite Festival, PUBG MOBILE has exciting plans for March, including special activities to honor Pakistan Day and Ramadan. The launch of the 2024 local culture theme series “Campaign” will further showcase Pakistan’s rich cultural heritage, combining traditional elements with popular youth-centric national games to create a dynamic and immersive gaming experience.

 

Beyond the Basics: Here are 5 additional tips to Elevate Your Gameplay

Lahore (Muhammad Yasir)

Mobile gaming has evolved into a dynamic and immersive experience, thanks to the remarkable advancements in smartphone technology. Whether it’s about a casual gamer or a dedicated professional, unlocking the full potential of one’s gaming abilities is always within reach.

Let’s delve into five expert strategies meticulously crafted to elevate your mobile gaming experience. These insights are not just mere tips but comprehensive approaches aimed at guiding enthusiasts toward peak performance in the dynamic realm of mobile gaming.

Choose a Dedicated Gaming Phone

By choosing a dedicated gaming phone, you ensure that your hardware is tailored to meet the demands of modern mobile games, empowering you to fully immerse in the virtual worlds and enjoy a seamless gaming experience. Such as upcoming Infinix HOT series, featuring the robust MediaTek Helio G99 processor supporting smoother frame rates and faster load time via 6NM octa core GPU processing. The smartphone further operates on a substantial 5000mAh battery for prolonged gaming sessions, and a user-friendly Fast and Fun interface. With a 120 Hz refresh rate, HOT 40 Pro enables seamless and reactive gameplay, delivering a competitive advantage in any arcade game.

Enhance Comfort with Gaming Gloves

Long gaming sessions can take a toll on your hands, affecting both comfort and performance. Comfort can be further enhanced by using specialized gaming gloves. These gloves offer ergonomic designs, anti-slip features, and enhanced grip, allowing you to maintain precise control over your device.

Select Games that Aligned with Your Interests

Choose games that resonate with your preferences, whether it’s strategy, adventure, or competition. By immersing yourself in games that capture your interest, you’re more likely to stay engaged and dedicated to improving your skills. FreeFire, for example is known for its fast-paced battle royale action, making it thrilling and exciting for players. The shorter match durations compared to other battle royale games contribute to the game’s intensity, keeping players engaged.

Track and Analyze Performance

To truly master mobile gaming, it’s essential to monitor and analyze your performance. Utilize in-game statistics and external tools to track your wins, losses, and other relevant metrics. Identify patterns in your gameplay, pinpoint areas for improvement, and adapt your strategies accordingly. Regularly reviewing your performance data will help you evolve as a gamer, making each gaming session a learning opportunity.

Collaborate with Friends

Gaming is not only about individual skill but also about shared experiences. Maximize the fun by teaming up with friends for an immersive gaming adventure. Whether it’s forming a squad in battle royale games or cooperating in cooperative missions, playing with friends adds a social element to mobile gaming. Team play not only enhances the overall gaming experience but also fosters camaraderie and friendly competition.

From choosing a dedicated gaming phone to enhancing comfort with gaming gloves and teaming up with friends, these tips will help you make the most of your mobile gaming experience. By incorporating these expert strategies and understanding the capabilities of your device, you’re poised to unlock the full potential of your gaming adventures.

Get ready to level up!

Technological solutions and customer awareness can reduce financial crimes

Pakistan (Muhammad Yasir)

Technological solutions and customer awareness are two crucial aspects
of combating the rising incidents of financial crimes across the
country, said Federal Banking Ombudsman Sirajuddin Aziz.

Speaking as a guest of honour at the conference” Financial Crimes in
the Digital Age” organized by Eastnets and managed by Dellsons
Associates recently, he said the banks should continue to upgrade
their systems towards strengthening the data security of their
customers, besides bringing reforms to plug the loopholes in the
practices and mechanisms that made the data of customers accessible to
white collar criminals.

He mentioned that victims of financial crimes in Pakistan are highly
qualified, ironically, as against fraudsters who are less educated but
tactical in deceiving the public into getting their credentials to
steal money from bank accounts; therefore, the need for awareness
among bankers and customers of banks is high and ongoing.

Asaan Bank Accounts are frequently reported to be used for fraudulent
activities as organized criminals are exploiting this facility for
their ease, unfortunately, due to the negligence of banks in
compliance with KYC of customers, Federal Banking Ombudsman said.

Nadeem Hussain, Chairman Pakistan Fintech Network, said the banks
should have a prime responsibility to build a culture of awareness on
data privacy within the system and then among customers on a priority
basis with investment in technology and education.

He pointed out that the personal details of customers, including OTPs,
are easily compromised in this digital age being available on the dark
web, which could be protected as banks must adopt new software and
applications and customers should build habits to change their
passwords again and again.

Hazem Mulhim, Founder and CEO Eastnets said the fourth industrial
revolution is emerging in the world, with Artificial Intelligence is
transforming every industry including the financial sector.

The financial institutions need Rs. 400 billion worldwide to revamp
its system through the acquisition of cybersecurity technology and
capacity building of the workforce. Organized financial crimes are
increasing worldwide constituting 2% of the global GDP.

The banking regulator imposed huge penalties on financial institutions
for failure to comply with regulations to prevent the loss of money at
the hands of criminals, but regulatory measures are not enough to stop
the menace.

Pakistan is an emerging and important market for the financial sector,
which keeps its system updated with advanced technological solutions
to maintain its position on the whitelist of the Financial Action Task
Force (FATF), Eastnets CEO said.

The conference also hosted various panel discussions on the topic of
challenges in digital banking, banking compliance, and anti-money
laundering. Moderators of the sessions were Salim Thobani, EVP/ Head
Foreign Exchange Monitoring Unit-Meezan Bank Limited and Syed Faraz
Anwer, Partner Business & Risk Consulting- A.F.Ferguson & Co. The
event was also addressed by Lubna Farooq Malik, Director
General-Financial Monitoring Unit (FMU), Atala Nijmeh, Principal
Product Manager- Eastnets, Hassan Zebdeh Financial Crime Advisor & Sr.
Product Development Manager- Eastnets.

Vlog Like a Pro: Here’s what you have been missing out on

Lahore (Nut Desk)

Vlogging is a form art, a medium of expression, and a source of entertainment that has captured the hearts of millions. To succeed in this creative space, you need more than just a passion for storytelling; you need the tools to elevate your content above the rest. Such as Infinix ZERO 4G that features a 2k 50 MP front vlog camera enabling convenient framing and real-time adjustments while vlogging on the go.

Let’s quickly take a look at the widely used vlogging scenarios where the vlog camera setup of Infinix ZERO 30 4G can elevate your vlogs altogether: 

Travel Vlogging

For travel vloggers, capturing the essence of a new destination is crucial. The Infinix ZERO 4G’s 2K 50 MP video recording empowers you to transport your audience to far-off lands with astonishing clarity and detail. Every street corner, every local face, and every scenic vista will come to life in your vlogs. The high resolution and frame rate make your viewers feel like they are right there with you, experiencing the sights and sounds of your journey.

Whether it’s a selfie in front of a famous landmark or capturing your reaction as you taste exotic cuisine, the 108MP MP rear camera outputs every detail of your expression. What’s more, the phone supports dual video recording, allowing travel vloggers to showcase both sides of your story simultaneously.

Beauty and Fashion Vlogging

In the world of beauty and fashion vlogging, the devil is in the details. Subtle makeup nuances, intricate fashion textures, and vibrant colors are all critical to the storytelling. The Infinix ZERO 4G’s 2K 30FPS video recording showcases these details with exceptional precision. Your audience can appreciate the details in your makeup tutorials, the feel of fabrics in fashion hauls, and the colors in your beauty reviews. Whether you’re doing a makeup tutorial or showing off the latest fashion, your audience will see every color, shade, and contour really clearly.

Lifestyle and Personal Vlogging

For lifestyle and personal vloggers, being real is super important. You want your audience to feel a connection with you, and the Infinix ZERO 4G makes that connection even stronger. 2K video recording enable vloggers to seamlessly narrate their experiences, share insights, and bring viewers closer to their everyday life, creating a more immersive viewing experience. Whether you’re showing a regular day, sharing personal stories, or talking about your routines, the video looks amazing.

Another interesting feature that is crucial to daily vlogging in the dual video view. The feature adds depth and richness to the narrative, providing viewers with multiple perspectives and enhancing the storytelling experience.

By utilizing both cameras of Infinix ZERO 4G i.e. 50MP front camera and 108MP rear camera, vloggers can capture not only their own expressions and reactions but also those of others around them. This allows for a more comprehensive portrayal of the vlog’s context and emotions. It provides vloggers with a wider range of creative options, enabling them to experiment with different angles, shots, and compositions, ultimately enhancing the overall visual appeal of the content.

 Whether you’re into travel, beauty, fashion, or just sharing your daily life, Infinix ZERO 30 4G empowers you to stand out in the world of vlogging.

 

PUBG MOBILE’S VERSION 2.9 UPDATE

SNOW AND REINDEER ARRIVE FOR THE FROST FESTIVAL IN PUBG MOBILE’S VERSION 2.9 UPDATE.

PUBG MOBILE’s new Version 2.9 Update will introduce:

  • Snowy Village: a new snow-themed zone featuring high speed Snow Rails, rideable reindeers, Snowball Blasters and more!
  • Additions and improvements to the World of Wonder, including a snowy map template and hide-and-seek objects.
  • The next Royale Pass Ace, featuring snow and reindeer-themed rewards.
  • Brand new partnerships, including an iconic sports car collaboration.

 LONDON (Nut Desk)  PUBG MOBILE, one of the world’s most popular mobile games, gets ready to celebrate the holiday season in its festive Version 2.9 Update. From November 7, 2023 to January 7, 2024, players will be able to battle in Snowy Village – a themed area featuring frosty new ways to traverse and take down enemy players, as well as more treats to get into the holiday spirit. Metro Royale Chapter 17 is also on the way, and the World of Wonder is getting new objects and improvements, including a Snowy new template.

In the Version 2.9 Update, Snowy Village invites PUBG MOBILE fans to the ultimate festive showdown! Players can fight in a two-story Ice Sculpture Plaza, and traverse the map in thrilling new ways – from Snow Rails to Snowboards. If the battleground still doesn’t seem cold enough, Snowball Blasters with exciting effects will also be available. When shooting these at enemies, they’ll turn them into snowmen! They can also be shot at the ground to create snowy cover, or at water to freeze it solid.

Other snowmen can also be found in Snowy Village. Players can come across a Lucky Snowman with three Snow Toddlers hidden nearby. After finding a Snow Toddler, it will follow the player like a pet, allowing them to bring it back to the Lucky Snowman. Finding and returning all of them will reward players with a crate! Even more rewards are available in the Version 2.9 update inside Lucky Ice. Players will need to find the most effective way to break through their icy exterior to get to the prize inside.

As the Frost Festival draws near, Reindeer will begin to spawn on the map! These merry vehicles allow two players to ride together to spread cheer across the battleground. The maps will also be decorated for the season with trees full of presents and stockings filled with supplies.

The Version 2.9 Update also brings a variety of gameplay improvements, including new additions to the World of Wonder creative mode with expanded PvE options, new Editor enhancements, and a new Snowy Map Template, as well as Frost Festival objects. Additionally, new ‘Catch Me’ Gameplay Template updates are being added, along with Skill Management Device improvements which introduce skills related to transformation gameplay.

The new Royale Pass Ace will be available from November 14, 2023 to January 13, 2024. Players can complete RP missions to increase their rank, and receive rewards such as new custom colour outfits, snowbike and reindeer finishes, and more.

Players can also look forward to a thrilling collaboration with a legendary sports car brand that will be revealed very soon. Stay tuned for more details!

PUBG MOBILE’s Version 2.9 Update will be available on November 7th! Download the game for free on the App Store and Google Play Store.