Connect with us

Tech

Exploring iOS 17: Features & Compatibility

Here’s everything you need to know about the iOS 17 release coming soon.

Published

on

Apple recently unveiled iOS 17, the most recent iteration of its iPhone operating system, in June. Users can now access a public beta version of the update at no cost to try it out on their iPhones. iOS 17 brings a range of significant enhancements and features to iPhones. These include NameDrop, StandBy mode, interactive widgets, a revamped phone app, and numerous other additions.

The iOS 17 public beta is compatible with 20 different iPhone models. However, the availability of certain features may vary based on the specific mode and hardware capabilities of each iPhone. Despite the limitation associated with the upgrade, iOS 17 introduces several new features designed to simplify everyday tasks. NameDrop revolutionizes contact sharing by allowing users to effortlessly exchange contact information by tapping their iPhones together. This convenient feature streamlines networking and eliminates the need for manual contact exchange.

Additionally, StandBy mode helps conserve battery life by intelligently managing background activities, extending the device’s uptime. With interactive widgets, users can customize their home screens and access relevant information or perform quick actions without the need to open specific apps. These enhancements, coupled with a redesigned phone app, improved privacy features, and the introduction of Focus mode and Live Text recognition, make iOS 17 a significant and beneficial update for iPhone users seeking enhanced functionality and convenience.

Tech

Spotify Has Quietly Hiked Prices in Kenya

Published

on

Spotify, the worldwide music streaming giant, has unexpectedly raised its subscription prices in Kenya. This change impacts all subscription levels, ranging from the economical Premium Mini to the extensive Family plan.

Spotify has just announced that it will raise the prices across all its subscription tiers in Kenya. This increase reflects how much one will have to pay to access premium features of the music streaming platform, with a new price change that applies to several user plans. This move is part of a wider trend within the streaming industry, where globally, these platforms inflate their prices in response to inflation and increased operational costs. Beginning today, users in Kenya will pay more to listen to their favorite music streaming services as Spotify continues to add more features and music to the platform.

The prices in Kenya have risen by 13.3 percent to 40.8 percent depending on the particular subscription. The wide range shows that some plans only have a moderate adjustment, while others see substantial rises. That is to say, many users are likely reviewing their current subscriptions or their more financially apt tiers. Specific reasons for these particular percentage increases have not been discussed, but this shows the platform’s intention: keeping profitability with competitive services.

Amongst the lot of subscription options, Premium Mini received the highest increase in percentage terms. The plan, previously the most affordable that gave access to Spotify’s premium features for either a day or a week, is now one of the relatively dearer options compared to other tiers. This steep increase may particularly affect users who rely on short-term premium access for occasional use and encourage them to either upgrade to longer-term plans or switch to other streaming platforms.

Here’s a comprehensive look at how Spotify’s prices have changed for Kenyan subscribers:

PlanOld PriceNew PriceIncreasePercentage Increase
Premium Mini (1 week)KES 49KES 69KES 2040.8%
Premium Individual (monthly)KES 299KES 339KES 4013.4%
Premium Student (monthly)KES 149KES 169KES 2013.4%
Premium Duo (monthly)KES 389KES 439KES 5012.9%
Premium Family (monthly)KES 479KES 549KES 7014.6%
  1. Premium Mini:The most economical choice experienced the largest percentage rise, at 40.8%. Such a substantial increase could affect users who depend on weekly subscriptions and are mindful of their budgets.
  2. Premium Individual and Student: Both plans saw a 13.4% increase. Although the absolute increase for students is smaller, the percentage rise is the same as that of the individual plan.
  3. Premium Duo:This couples’ plan experienced the smallest percentage increase at 12.9%, potentially rendering it a more appealing option for couples aiming to save.
  4. Premium Family: The price of the most expensive plan rose by 14.6%, potentially impacting households dependent on shared accounts.

For individuals seeking to optimize value, the Duo and Family plans may provide greater cost-effectiveness for those who are eligible. Students are advised to keep their verification current to maintain access to reduced rates.

Continue Reading

Tech

Infinix’s Hot Launch; The All New Hot 50 Series is Here

Published

on

Over the last couple of months, Infinix has been making waves in the smartphone market, and their recent attempt at solidifying this move looks set to serve Kenyan consumers as the smartphone manufacturer launches their latest series of budget-friendly gadgets, and oh are they something. 

The newly launched budget phone is the Infinix Hot 50i with functional elements users on a tight budget will find quite appealing. The budget-friendly market is where real competition exists if you ask me. Here’s whats on paper so far.

Infinix Hot 50i

The Infinix Hot 50i, part of the same Hot 50 series, brings its own set of features, which is powered by the MediaTek Helio G81, which is paired with 4GB of RAM.

However, this RAM can be expanded to 8GB, providing users with more flexibility depending on their usage requirements. This model offers similar performance in day-to-day tasks but at a more affordable price point.

Infinix Hot 50i Specs

  • Display: A large 6.7-inch IPS display with a resolution of 720 x 1600 pixels and 120Hz refresh rate.
  • Processor: Powered by the MediaTek Helio G81 processor, for smooth performance for everyday tasks and gaming.
  • RAM and Storage: Available in configurations of 4GB or 6GB RAM, which can be virtually extended up to 8GB. The device also boasts a generous internal storage capacity of 256GB.
  • Camera System: 48MP rear camera and an 8MP front camera for selfies.
  • Battery Life: 5000mAh battery that supports 18W fast charging.
  • Audio: Dual DTS speakers designed to enhance sound quality, making it ideal for music lovers and media consumers.
  • Operating System: Runs on XOS based on Android 14, providing a user-friendly interface with various customization options.
  • Additional Features:  A side-mounted fingerprint sensor for security, a USB Type-C charging port, and TÜV’s 48-month performance certification for long-term reliability.

Infinix Hot 50i Pricing

The Hot 50i is available in the Kenyan market at a price of KES 13,699, making it an attractive option for those looking for an affordable, yet capable smartphone.

The phone comes three attractive color options: Sleek Black, Sage Green, and Titanium Grey.

It will be widely available in retail stores after September 30th. Stay tuned to watch us review these units and give you a hands-on review of whether this should be your next phone or why not.

Continue Reading

Tech

New WhatsApp Feature Lets You Mention Contacts In Status Updates

Published

on

WhatsApp has recently added a new feature to its Status updates, allowing users to tag contacts directly.

Currently available on Android for users with beta version 2.24.20.3 or higher, this update introduces a @ button that lets you mention specific contacts in your Status.

Once tagged, they receive both a notification and a message, ensuring they won’t miss your update. Tagged contacts can also reshare your Status, but only they will see their mention, preserving privacy.

Unlike Instagram, WhatsApp keeps the identity of the original Status creator hidden when tagged contacts reshare it. One key thing to note is that if you’ve blocked someone from viewing your Status, they can still see it if tagged using this feature.

This update, along with WhatsApp’s other hidden features, aims to make interactions more personal and dynamic on the platform.

Continue Reading

Trending