New Google Pixel camera update 2024
Google has rolled out the Pixel Camera v9.4 update. This update delivers several significant enhancements to devices such as the Pixel 6 Pro, Pixel 7 Pro, and Pixel Fold. Here, we outline key features and improvements brought by this update. You can expect a clear understanding of what to envisage from the latest Google Pixel update. Key features of Pixel camera 9.4. update. 1. Pro Lens selection One of the standout features of the Google Pixel update 2024 is the Pro Lens selection. This allows users to manually choose between Ultra-Wide (UW), Wide (W), and Telephoto (T) lenses on their latest Pixel devices. The new lens selection gives users greater control and clarity over photo captures. This feature can be accessed within the “Pro” tab, now conveniently located next to the “General” tab in the camera interface. 2. Improved HDR+ Frame selection The update also improves HDR+ by enhancing the frame selection process. This feature now automatically selects the best frame from a burst of photos. As such, the final image captures the best possible moments, such as subjects with open eyes and genuine smiles. This enhancement aims to improve the overall quality and appeal of photos taken with the Pixel camera. 3. Changes to RAW/JPEG picker Another significant change in the Google Pixel update 2024 is the integration of RAW/JPEG photo settings into the Pro tab under Settings > Advanced. This update makes it simpler for users to switch between photo formats. However, it is noteworthy that this update does not include resolution preferences available in previous Pixel models. Availability of the Google Pixel camera update The new Pixel Camera v9.4.103.641377609.23 update is being gradually rolled out through the Play Store. Users may only experience the new features after the update being available. Full access to the enhancements this Google Pixel update brings may require the June Pixel Feature Drop or additional server-side updates from Google. Final thoughts on the new Google Pixel camera update 2024 The Google Pixel update 2024 for the Pixel Camera v9.4 brings several noteworthy features and improvements that enhance the user experience. With the addition of Pro Lens selection, improved HDR+ frame selection, and streamlined RAW/JPEG settings, this update is poised to deliver more control and better photo quality for Pixel users. However, users will need to stay patient as the full suite of features might take some time to be fully accessible due to staggered rollouts and necessary feature drops.
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Code to share data on Airtel 2024
Airtel’s data sharing feature comes in handy when you need to share data with another Airtel user. Here’s how you can use USSD code to share data to help out your fellow Airtel users in 2024. Steps to sharing data with Airtel Me2U Follow the next steps to share your Airtel data with friends and family, using the USSD code and prompts as follows: Step 1: Dial code to share data on Airtel Start by dialing the *312# code to transfer Airtel data on your phone. This will open Airtel’s self-service menu. Step 2: Navigate the menu after dialling code to share data on Airtel Look for the “Gift” or “Share Data” option in the menu. If you don’t see it immediately, keep selecting “Next” until you find the right section. Step 3: Select data Me2U In the “Share Data” section, choose “Data Me2U.” This is the feature that allows you to transfer data to another Airtel subscriber. You may be asked to enter your old PIN and maybe create a new one. Your default PIN should be 1234, but you can change it later. Step 4: Choose your data sharing option You can either share data from your existing bundle or transfer a specific amount. Select the option that works best for you. Step 5: Enter the recipient’s number Input the Airtel number of the person you want to share your data with. Double-check the number to ensure it’s correct. Step 6: Specify the data amount Decide how much data you want to share. To avoid any issues, be mindful of Airtel’s data transfer limits. Step 7: Confirm with your transfer PIN To finalize the transfer, you’ll need your Airtel transfer PIN. The default PIN is 1234, but it’s wise to change it for security reasons. You can manage your PIN by dialling *321#. Step 8: Complete the transfer Once you’ve entered the correct PIN, the data transfer will go through. Your friend will receive a notification, confirming the data has been shared. Final thoughts on code to share data on Airtel 2024 With the USSD code to transfer Airtel data, sending data to other Airtel users is simple and efficient just like on other networks like MTN.
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👨🏿🚀TechCabal Daily – Anonymous joins Kenya’s fight
In partnership with Share this newsletter: Lire en Français اقرأ هذا باللغة العربية TGIF, really, TGIF Zone in partnership with TechCabal Insights has released the first edition of the Nigeria Payments Report The report gives a deep dive into Nigeria’s payment industry and offers: A comprehensive analysis of the evolution of payments in Nigeria An overview of key trends that have defined the current state of Nigeria’s payment ecosystem, and An examination of the challenges faced with digital payments. To learn more about Nigeria’s payment sector, download the report here. In today’s edition Kenya’s Finance Bill passes second reading despite protests Hacktivists Anonymous joins Kenya’s fight Ilya Sutskever, who tried to oust Sam Altman, launches new AI startup Funding tracker The World Wide Web3 Job openings Regulations Kenya’s Finance Bill passes second reading despite protests Kenyans are facing a tough choice: shrinking wallets or even heavier tax burdens. The proposed Finance Bill 2024, currently debated in Parliament, has sparked outrage with its plan to raise taxes on essential goods and services. Hundreds of young Kenyans, under the banner “OccupyParliament,” have taken to the streets, their placards and signs a stark contrast to the government’s seeming indifference. President William Ruto’s administration is pushing for the bill’s passage, aiming to raise KES 3.9 trillion ($23 billion) to finance government projects. However, citizens, stakeholders, and organisations vehemently oppose the bill. Why the controversy? The bill proposes a value-added tax (VAT) on bread, a staple food for many Kenyans. It also includes a 25% excise duty on vegetable oils, a 2.5% motor circulation tax, and a 5% increase in excise duty on financial transactions like bank transfers and mobile money payments, crucial tools in Kenya’s digital economy. Additionally, the bill grants the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) sweeping powers to enforce tax collection, including access to citizens’ bank and mobile money accounts. Facing the protest: The “OccupyParliament” movement has seen determined protestors occupy streets, forcing police to resort to water cannons and tear gas for dispersal. The lack of central leadership among the protestors has made it difficult for authorities to negotiate. Facing mounting pressure, the government has conceded on some controversial aspects. The proposed VAT on bread, taxes on mobile money transfers, bank charges, car ownership, and cooking oil have been removed. However, Kenyans are calling for the bill’s complete rejection, fearing a domino effect leading to higher prices across the board on top of existing inflation. The Bill’s future: Despite protests, petitions, and opposition from various groups, the bill passed its second reading with 204 votes in favour and 115 against. It now faces committee review, a third reading, and finally, presidential assent to become law. OccupyParliament protestors remain resolute, maintaining that the bill will further cripple purchasing power and worsen poverty in Kenya. As of June 20th, the stand-off continues with police using force to disperse protestors and journalists in Nairobi. The protesters are also receiving some help from a hacktivist group—more on that in the next blurb. Process payments smoothly with Moniepoint And we’ll have processed almost 5,000 more by the time you’re done reading this. Your business payments can be one of them. Click here to sign up. Cybercrime? Anonymous threatens to expose Kenyan officials over 2024 Finance Bill Africa has seen its fair share of attention from the global hacktivist group Anonymous. Last year alone, the group set its sights on Nigeria, Zimbabwe and Tunisia where it launched cyberattacks against several companies. Now, the hacktivist group is Kenya for some civil justice—fighting the Kenyan Finance Bill. Just before protests erupted in major cities, a leak exposed the phone numbers of Kenyan government officials. Anonymous, known for its Guy Fawkes mask and online activism, capitalised on this development. In a 57-second video, the group threatened to expose “corrupt deals involving members of parliament” if the 2024 Finance Bill passes. This echoes the public outcry against the bill’s proposed tax hikes. Anonymous expressed solidarity with the 2020 #EndSARS protests in Nigeria, further demonstrating their global reach. Their message is clear: reject the bill or face the consequences. “There will be an uprising of hackers… Your secrets may no longer be safe,” warns a masked figure in the video, circulating widely online. Anonymous is known for launching digital attacks like DDoS campaigns, overwhelming government websites with traffic and rendering them inaccessible. As Kenyan youth continue their protests and the bill nears its third reading on June 25th, the world watches with bated breath. Will the government cave to public pressure and protestors, or will Anonymous make good on their threat? Issue USD and Euro accounts with Fincra Create and manage USD & Euro accounts from anywhere. Fincra allows you to issue accounts to your users, partners & customers to collect payments without the stress of setting up and operating a local account. Get started today. Big Tech Ilya Sutskever, who tried to oust Sam Altman, launches new AI startup In November we were treated to an episode of drama at the world’s largest AI company, OpenAI, when Ilya Sutskever, the company’s Co-founder tried to oust CEO Sam Altman. Sutskever, who was responsible for some of the biggest breakthrough research at OpenAI, argued that Altman was moving swiftly to commercialise OpenAI at the expense of potential safety concerns. After a round of voting on whether or not Altman should remain with the company, Sutskever, alongside the board fired him around. Altman’s departure led to revolt within the company leading to many high profile resignations. While the battle ended with Altman returning as CEO of the ChatGPT maker, and Sutskever leaving the company, Sutskever is finally getting to do things his own the safe way. On Wednesday, Sutskever announced that he was launching a new AI company, Safe Superintelligence (SSI) which would develop safe and responsible AI systems. “We plan to advance capabilities as fast as possible while making sure our safety always remains ahead,” Sutskever wrote announcing the company’s launch. Sutskever launched the startup with former OpenAI researcher, Daniel Levy and startup
Read MoreParis-based Breega is the latest European VC to close an Africa-focused fund
Two years after its launch, Africa Seed I, the Africa-focused fund of Paris-based VC firm, Breega has reached first close with $50 million in funding secured. The fund which aims to raise $75 million is led by Tosin Faniro-Dada, former CEO of Endeavor, and Melvyn Lubega, the founder of edtech unicorn, Go1. The fund received backing from institutions like Bpifrance and the Dutch Entrepreneurial Development Bank. Breega plans to invest between $100,000 and $2 million in at least 40 across Nigeria, Egypt, South Africa, Kenya, Morocco, Senegal, Ivory Coast, Cameroon, and the DRC. Breega, self-described as one of the fastest-growing VC firms in Europe, joins TLcom Capital and Partech—major European VC firms—that closed their Africa-focused funds this year. This signals continued VC interest in Africa’s tech ecosystem despite increased investor cautiousness as indicated in the 36% decline in VC funding in 2023. Africa Seed I wants to lead pre-seed and seed rounds in the continent’s agritech, edtech, health tech, fintech, logistics, mobility, energy, and climate tech sectors but also promises to support potential portfolio companies in other ways. “Our goal is to be the investors we wished we had while building our businesses,” Lubega said in an interview. The VC has previously backed nine African startups: Numida, Klasha, Socium, Coachbit Kwara, Sava, and Hohm Energy—its most recent investment. The firm also recently opened offices in Lagos and Cape Town.
Read More2024 Finance Bill passes second reading despite OccupyParliament protests
Kenya’s parliament has voted for the controversial Finance Bill 2024 to enter the committee stage despite spirited demonstrations by OccupyParliament protesters, civil society groups, and opposition lawmakers. 204 MPs voted yes to the bill, while 115 voted no. The bill will now move to the committee stage and a third reading. If it passes the third reading, it will be sent to President William Ruto for assent. Majority of MPs from the ruling Kenya Kwanza coalition and a few from the opposition Azimio coalition voted for the bill, approving the tax hikes that the national treasury argues the country badly needs. The government claims those taxes will help raise an extra KES 346 billion to pay the country’s debt and fund development projects. “Honorable members, the matter of the financial bill is now over. The House will reconvene on Tuesday morning to proceed with further business,” said the speaker of the National Assembly, Moses Wetangula. Protestors who blocked major roads in Nairobi maintained that the new finance bill will push more Kenyans into poverty, especially coming at a time when many are struggling with high cost of living. “I think Ruto is gambling with our future. This bill is meant to collect money for a few people in government to loot, when out here we can barely make ends meet. We want our MPs to go back to the drawing board and come up with a solution,” said Edna Matiri, a 21-year-old tourism and hospitality student in Nairobi. On Monday, the national assembly’s finance committee scrapped some taxes, including VAT on bread, excise duty on mobile money and banking fees, motor vehicle tax, and levies on edible oil, but Kenyans demanded that parliament reject the whole bill. Protests against the new taxes spilled to other major towns and cities, including Ruto’s hometown of Eldoret, as Kenyans stepped up pressure on lawmakers to reject the bill.
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eClat, Interswitch’s health subsidiary, snags second government partnership in one year
eClat, the health-tech subsidiary of Nigerian payment giant Interswitch, has partnered with the Lagos State Ministry of Health to launch a cloud-based platform, Smart Health Information Platform (SHIP), that will manage and transmit data for all state-owned healthcare facilities. This is the second government partnership eClat has secured in about a year. The Lagos state government believes the platform will improve the efficiency of the state’s health ministry and resources. “When the data are in one place, we can then use that data and collect trends on the health-seeking behaviour of Lagosians,” Akin Abayomi, the health commissioner, said on June 18, during the signing of the concession between the Office of Public Private Partnership and the Digital Health Platform Limited (a special purpose vehicle) entailing the state’s Ministry of Health, Interswitch and eClat). Image source: Interswitch This partnership will digitise the paper-based data management and sharing system of all the state-owned hospitals and consequently put a significant amount of data from Nigeria’s most populous city, in the control of eClat. General hospitals in Lagos alone generate data from over 7 million persons, according to Abayomi. The state’s over 256 public healthcare centres generate and manage a significant amount too. This is eClat’s second government partnership since Interswitch acquired it to expand its payment services in the healthcare sector. In May 2023, the health tech partnered with the Ogun State government and launched eClat’s core service, eClinic to digitise data management at one of the state’s teaching hospitals. The long-term goal, for eClat, is to create an “API-enabled digital platform that allows all health ecosystem platforms to collaborate and securely share data,” a spokesperson told TechCabal. The partnership, which will facilitate digital bill payment for those hospitals, is a direct positive for Interswitch’s payment business. The payment giant told TechCabal that it validates the reasoning for Interswitch’s 2019 acquisition of eClat which is to “position the Interswitch group as a health-tech solution and payments provider of choice to the healthcare industry.” Climate tech startup, Downforce Technologies raises $4.2 million to build soil fertility measurement tools for Africa Government partnerships of this nature are part of Interswitch’s overarching goal to increase the adoption of digital payment in Nigeria’s cash-dominated economy. “ There is tremendous value, financial and otherwise, locked up in sectors and areas where government is a key player, particularly in the aspects of healthcare, transportation, and other basic social services,” Mitchell Elegbe, founder and CEO of Interswitch, said at the concession signing event. Before its acquisition by Interswitch, eClat’s electronic health record platform was used in over 250 public and private healthcare facilities in Nigeria. The new government partnership will see that number increase significantly.
Read MoreClimate tech startup, Downforce Technologies raises $4.2 million to build soil fertility measurement tools for Africa
Downforce Technologies, a London-headquartered climate tech startup that provides farmers with technology tools to measure soil fertility, has raised $4.2 million to build new products focused on Africa and expand into new markets. The funding round was led by Equator VC, an African early-stage climate tech-focused venture firm. Tiverton Agriculture Impact Fund, Dragonfly Enviro Capital, Perivoli Innovations, and the Clean Energy Finance Corporation (CEFC), whose investment is managed by Virescent Ventures, remain existing shareholders in the company. “This funding allows us to democratise access to the technology and empower a wider audience to make data-driven decisions for soil health and climate action,” the company’s CEO Professor Jacquie McGlade said in a statement. Launched in 2020, Downforce Technologies led by Professor Jacquie McGlade offers cost-effective remote sensing software that helps farmers measure soil health in record time. The company also provides tools for planning and executing verified carbon projects, collecting and reporting farm emissions data as well as implementing soil health improvement projects. Africa contributes only a small fraction of global food production. In 2021, total food exports in Africa was just over $60 billion while the U.S. exported $177 billion worth of food in the same year. While the continent has the capacity to produce more given its uncultivated arable land, the inability to measure its soil fertility also poses a great challenge. Measurements are usually expensive, time-consuming, and have a high risk for errors. Downforce Technologies is part of a growing group of climate tech startups—AgroCares, SoilSense, Regen Technologies, and EcoPeanut—offering various solutions for soil carbon measurement, farm management, and climate sustainability for African farmers. “Downforce has successfully introduced a compelling software platform which should act as a catalyst for increased investment in soil organic carbon globally, and particularly in Africa, to ensure food security, promote climate mitigation, and ensure resilience to climate change,” said Nijhad Jamal, Managing Partner at Equator.
Read MoreAnonymous threatens Kenyan officials ahead of vote over unpopular 2024 Finance Bill
One week after unknown persons leaked the phone numbers of Kenyan government officials online, hacker group Anonymous has threatened to expose “corrupt deals involving members of parliament (MPs)” if they vote to pass the 2024 Finance Bill on Thursday. Founded in 2003, Anonymous seeks “mass awareness and revolution against what the organization perceives as corrupt entities while attempting to maintain anonymity.” The group has been linked to Distributed Denial Of Service (DDoS) attacks on websites belonging to the Tunisian and Zimbabwean governments. “There is a chance that all these secrets will be exposed to show how corrupt and unjust members of parliament are, embezzling funds for personal gain,” Anonymous warned MPs on X. The 2024 Finance Bill, criticised for proposing tax hikes on commodities like bread and sanitary towels, is deeply unpopular. Many Kenyans, already struggling with a spike in living costs, say the new taxes will worsen their already difficult situation. While many of those complaints began online, it soon spilled to the streets as hundreds of Kenyans attempted to gain access to the Parliament in Nairobi. It brought to mind the 2023 protests over living costs. MPs who support the bill say the taxes that attracted public ire, including motor vehicle and eco-tax, have been removed. However, opposing lawmakers and the Anonymous Group want the Bill scrapped altogether. “We do not want you to amend the Finance Bill; we want you to reject it,” the group posted on X. On Tuesday, hundreds of young Kenyans led protests nationwide. Kenyans in other major cities like Kisumu, Mombasa, and Eldoret—one of President William Ruto’s strongholds—have joined the movement. Police have surrounded Nairobi’s parliament buildings, where the second round of #OccupyParliament protests are focused. The debate on the bill resumed Thursday morning. Amendments are due by the afternoon and must be voted on before Thursday evening. MPs will discuss and vote on amendments for the third reading on June 25.
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Google Pixel 9Pro XL 2024: First details and specifications
The Google Pixel lineup is set for expansion with the introduction of the Pixel 9 series. The range includes the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, and the flagship Google Pixel 9Pro XL. Based on recent leaks and benchmarking information, this article highlights the key specifications and features of the forthcoming Google Pixel 9 Pro XL in 2024. Pixel 9 series overview Here’s a concise look into the leaked information about the Google Pixel 9Pro XL: 1. Lineup confirmation The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL 2024 caught attention in a now-deleted Geekbench listing, confirming its existence. This flagship model joins the Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro, creating a three-tiered lineup for different user needs. The Pixel 9 features a dual-camera setup, the Pixel 9 Pro includes a compact triple-camera system, and the Pixel 9 Pro XL represents the pinnacle of the series with an all-out three-tiered camera feature with incredible capabilities. 2. Processor and performance The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL in 2024 will run on the new Tensor G4 processor. This chip includes a 3.10GHz prime core, three 2.6GHz performance cores, and four 1.95GHz efficiency cores. This configuration is designed to deliver a balance between performance and power efficiency. Hardware and software specifications The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL will likely feature the following hardware details: 1. Graphics processing The Pixel 9 Pro XL 2024 will feature the Mali G715 graphics processor. While the Pixel 8 Pro also used the G715 GPU, the new model is expected to have more cores or a higher clock speed, offering improved graphics performance for gaming and other intensive applications. 2. Memory and storage on Google Pixel 9Pro XL Alongside its powerful processor, the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL 2024 will include 16GB of RAM. This is a significant upgrade from the standard Pixel 9, which features 8GB of RAM. The increased memory will aid unhinged multitasking and maximum utility. 3. Software on Google Pixel 9Pro XL The device will run Android 14, providing users with the latest features and improvements from Google’s operating system. The new software, combined with the powerful hardware, aims to deliver a seamless user experience. Final thoughts on Google Pixel 9Pro XL first details and specifications 2024 The forthcoming Google Pixel 9 Pro XL, touted to sell at about $1000, is shaping to be a significant upgrade in the Pixel lineup and a top contestant among the big guns of the smartphone club. With a powerful Tensor G4 processor, Mali G715 GPU, and 16GB of RAM, the device promises to offer top-tier performance. As more information becomes available, anticipation continues to build for the official unveiling of the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL in 2024.
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JAMB latest news on rescheduling, DE, and results 2024
In the latest JAMB news for 2024, significant updates don’t only include a supplementary UTME. There are also vital advisory for Direct Entry registration, and ongoing investigations into admission fraud at Imo State University. The following is a breakdown of the news at hand: 1. JAMB exam updates One of the latest JAMB news is that a supplementary UTME has been scheduled for Saturday, June 22, 2024, for specific categories of candidates. These candidates include CAILS-KWASU candidates, those with results under investigation, and candidates with fingerprint verification issues during the last exams. More specifically: 322 candidates were reclassified to the examination misconduct category due to suspected impersonation. Candidates were advised to print their supplementary Examination Notification Slips from Tuesday, June 4, 2024, to confirm their examination centres for the rescheduled examination. The rescheduled examination will be held in 18 centres across Akwa Ibom, Delta, Edo, and Kwara States. 2. Direct Entry (DE) registration and verification Regarding the latest news on DE registration, JAMB issued an advisory on the alignment of data for the 2024 DE registration and verification of candidates’ data. For emphasis, The Nigeria Integrated Post-Secondary Education Data System (NIPEDS) was established to verify all A-level certificates used in the DE application before admission is considered. Candidates are required to present their credentials for DE registration at JAMB PRCs/State Offices, and the verification process involves checking the alignment of name, qualification, subject, and grades with the NIPEDS databank. Also, conversion for DE is yet to commence. The process will be officially communicated once it begins. 3. Latest news on JAMB results and investigations 2024 The Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC) and JAMB are investigating Imo State University (IMSU) over alleged admission racketeering involving fake admission letters traced to the university. More specifically: Nearly 10 university employees, including those in the admission office, were arrested by ICPC in connection with the alleged admission racketeering at IMSU. These updates provide insights into the ongoing activities, examinations, verifications, and investigations related to JAMB candidates and results. Final thoughts on JAMB latest news on rescheduling, DE, and results 2024 These updates provide essential information on the latest developments in JAMB exams, Direct Entry registration, and ongoing investigations. Candidates and stakeholders are advised to stay informed to ensure compliance with the latest procedures and regulations.
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