Category: Digital

The African tech landscape is preparing for a landmark moment as the Africa Blockchain Festival (ABF) 2025 comes to Kigali, Rwanda, from November 7 to 9, 2025. Billed as the continent’s first major festival merging artificial intelligence (AI innovation in Africa) and blockchain startups and innovation, the event is designed to shift Africa’s role in global technology from consumer to innovator.

Africa’s Tech Future

Hosted at the Kigali Convention Centre, the festival carries the theme: “Africa’s AI innovation in Africa & Blockchain Renaissance: From Tech Consumers to Global Innovators.” With Rwanda championing digital transformation, the government’s endorsement of ABF underscores its vision of positioning the country as a leading African hub for innovation and fintech development.

High-Profile Speakers and Global Voices

The festival will feature a diverse lineup of policymakers, innovators, and entrepreneurs across Africa and beyond. Confirmed speakers include:

• Paula Ingabire – Rwanda’s Minister of ICT
• Dr. Emomotimi Agama – Director General, Nigeria’s SEC
• Alex Ntale – CEO of Rwanda ICT Chamber
• Michelle Chivunga – Founder of Global Policy House
• Fisayo Fosudo – Nigerian tech creator
• Delppy – Ghanaian digital voice
• Shameera Akbar & Ayesha Bayat – Co-founders of DigiYouth Africa, South Africa

Africa Blockchain Festival 2025

• Conference & Exhibition: Over 5,000 developers, investors, policymakers, and innovators will gather for panels, demos, and product showcases.
• Startup Pitch Competitions: Emerging African blockchain startups and innovation and AI innovation in Africa startups will compete for visibility and funding.
• Hackathons & Workshops: Developers and students will engage in hands-on sessions exploring practical applications of AI innovation in Africa and blockchain startups and innovation.
• Creative Industry Track: Dedicated panels on how blockchain startups and innovation can revolutionize music, film, art, and intellectual property.
• Networking & Cultural Events: Deal rooms, VIP lounges, innovation tours, and a closing gala to connect innovators across borders.

RwandAir is partnering with the festival to offer flight discounts of 20% on business class and 15% on economy for attendees across Africa.

The Africa Blockchain Festival 2025 (Kigali blockchain startups and innovation event) represents more than a gathering, it is a defining moment for Africa’s digital economy. By merging blockchain startups and innovation and AI innovation in Africa discussions under one roof, it sets the stage for policies, partnerships, and innovations that could shape the continent’s future in fintech, governance, and creative industries.

The Internationale Funkausstellung Berlin (IFA) returned this year with an electrifying showcase of futuristic gadgets, breakthrough AI solutions, and cutting-edge consumer technology. From transparent TVs to AI-powered robots, IFA 2025 reaffirmed its role as the world’s leading tech trade show, bringing together innovators, manufacturers, and enthusiasts from across the globe.

Standout Winners at the IFA 2025 Innovation Awards

The inaugural IFA Innovation Awards spotlighted the companies pushing the boundaries of design and function.

• LG Electronics stole the spotlight with 17 awards, including Best of IFA for the LG SIGNATURE OLED T, the world’s first wireless transparent TV. LG also earned recognition for its Comfort Kit and Spielraum AI mobility platform.
• TECNO scored big with three awards for the Slim smartphone (billed as the world’s slimmest 3D-curved device), the MEGABOOK S14 AI laptop, and the AI Glasses Series.
• Other global brands like Samsung, TCL, Hisense, Miele, and Anker also took home awards in categories ranging from AI innovation to smart home integration.

Smartphones & Wearables

IFA 2025 reinforced how smartphones and wearables remain central to connected living.

• Samsung unveiled the Galaxy S25 FE and the Galaxy Tab S11 Series, strengthening its IFA portfolio with sleek designs and AI-powered features.
• TCL showcased the NXTPAPER 60 Ultra, an eye-comfort smartphone with triple-camera AI functionality (€499), alongside the NXTPAPER 5G Junior, a youth-focused device (€249) with Digital Detox Mode. They also introduced an educational smartwatch for kids.
• Withings and Garmin revealed AI-enabled wearables like the ScanWatch 2 and Fenix 8 Pro, highlighting health-focused data tracking.

Smart Home & Lifestyle Tech

IFA 2025 was packed with innovations designed to simplify everyday living.

• Roborock launched its 4-in-1 AI Cleaning System, combining a washer, dryer, robot vacuum, and mop into one compact, eco-friendly solution.
• Philips Hue expanded its Matter-compatible lineup, introducing a video doorbell and smarter lighting controls.
• SwitchBot presented an AI Art Frame and a quirky AI Pet, signaling how smart home devices are becoming more emotional and expressive.
• Lepro’s AI table lamp and other connected home gadgets reinforced the theme of energy efficiency and personalization.

Laptops, Gadgets & AI-Powered Tools

• Lenovo unveiled the ThinkBook VertiFlex, featuring a swivel portrait display perfect for reading or coding, plus a Smart Motion Concept adjustable stand.
• Acer impressed with the Swift 16 Air laptop and the Predator Helios 18P AI gaming rig.
• Acemate’s AI Tennis Robot turned heads with its ability to coach and retrieve balls, bringing automation to sports training.
• Anker’s Soundcore recorder debuted with GPT-4.1 transcription, blending productivity with AI-driven accuracy.

Entertainment & Visual Experiences

From projectors to drones, IFA 2025 highlighted immersive entertainment and bold design.

• Xgimi Horizon 20 Max projector delivered stunning 4K visuals with Dolby Vision support.
• Soundcore Nebula X1 Pro projector upped the game with Dolby Vision + Atmos.
• Technics SL-40CBT turntable catered to audiophiles, while Earfun Air Pro 4+ earbuds won praise for affordability and clarity.
• Antigravity A1 drone and Reolink TrackFlex Floodlight Cam also earned “Best of IFA” nods for functionality and innovation.

Design Meets Technology: Furniture & Lifestyle Crossovers

TCL introduced its NXTHOME™ concept, blending premium furniture and technology in collaboration with Bang & Olufsen and Roche Bobois. The company also revealed AiMe, the world’s first modular AI companion robot designed for homes.

Key Notes from IFA 2025

1. AI Everywhere: From phones and glasses to vacuums and tennis robots, AI integration is on the high rise.
2. Design-Driven Tech: Transparent TVs, ultra-slim curved phones, and AI-infused furniture show how aesthetics and functionality are merging.
3. Smart Living Simplified: Compact, multi-functional, and eco-friendly solutions dominated the show.
4. Global Stage: Asian tech giants (TCL, TECNO, Lenovo) shined alongside European leaders, proving IFA is a truly international showcase.

IFA 2025 wasn’t just about new gadgets; it was about reshaping how technology fits into everyday life. From the living room to the tennis court, and from luxury furniture to budget smartphones, the message was clear: the future is AI-powered, beautifully designed, and globally connected.

In today’s fast-paced world, no one likes waiting hours for their phone to power back up. Whether you are heading out for work, about to catch a flight, or simply impatient, faster charging is always welcome. One common tip many smartphone users swear by is switching on Airplane Mode while charging. But does it actually work?

What Happens When You Turn On Airplane Mode?

Airplane Mode is designed to disable all wireless communications on your phone, including:

• Cellular network signals (calls and mobile data)
• Wi-Fi
• Bluetooth
• GPS and location services

By shutting these features down, your phone drastically reduces background power consumption. For example, without mobile signals or Wi-Fi constantly searching for connections, the device uses less energy. This means more of the incoming charge is directed straight into your battery.

How Much Faster Does It Charge?

The difference isn’t dramatic, but it is noticeable. On average, phones may charge 4–8% faster in Airplane Mode compared to normal charging. While this won’t cut your charging time in half, it can make a real difference if you only have 20–30 minutes to top up before heading out.

For instance:

• A phone that takes 2 hours to fully charge might save 5–10 minutes on Airplane Mode.
• A quick 30-minute top-up could give you a few extra percentage points of battery.

Tips to Maximize Charging Speed

If you’re looking for the fastest way to charge your phone, Airplane Mode is only part of the solution. Here are more tips that make a bigger difference:

1. Use the right charger – Always use the original or a certified fast charger that matches your phone’s wattage.
2. Keep your phone cool – Charging generates heat, and heat slows down the charging process. Keep the phone on a hard surface instead of a bed or couch.
3. Don’t use your phone while charging; Streaming, gaming, or browsing while plugged in increases power drain.
4. Turn the phone off completely; If you can, powering down your phone charges it slightly faster than even Airplane Mode.

Yes, Airplane Mode does make your phone charge faster, but only slightly. It works by reducing background activity and lowering battery drain, allowing more of the incoming power to go directly into charging. If you’re in a hurry, every minute counts, and this simple switch can give your phone a small but useful boost.

MultiChoice Ghana’s operations are under threat today, September 6, 2025, as the deadline set by the National Communications Authority (NCA) for the company to reduce subscription prices by 30 percent expires.

Communications Minister Samuel Nartey George had earlier warned that MultiChoice’s license would be suspended if the company failed to comply with the directive. The ultimatum followed a 30-day suspension notice issued in August, alongside a daily fine of GHC 10,000 imposed on the pay-TV operator for failing to submit required pricing data. By early September, the fines had accumulated to over GHC 150,000.

Despite the government’s position, MultiChoice has publicly denied that any agreement to cut prices has been reached. The company says discussions are still ongoing through a stakeholder committee established by the ministry.

“MultiChoice has not agreed to a price reduction. We remain committed to the ongoing engagement process and await the outcome of the working committee,” the company said in a statement.

The standoff could affect millions of subscribers in Ghana who rely on DSTV services for entertainment, sports, and news content. It also raises broader questions about regulatory intervention in subscription pricing and the balance between consumer protection and business sustainability.

For now, all eyes remain on the outcome of today’s deadline as the NCA decides whether to proceed with the suspension or allow negotiations to continue.

The Huawei Railway Summit 2025, held alongside the Southern African Railways Association (SARA) Rail Conference & Exhibition in Johannesburg, gathered policymakers, industry leaders, and technology experts to chart a new course for the region’s rail sector through digital intelligence.

Themed “Digital Intelligence Empower African Railways: Safe, Efficient and Intelligent,” the summit brought together over 100 representatives from transport authorities, railway operators, and academic institutions. The discussions focused on how advanced digital solutions can address critical challenges in safety, efficiency, and modernization across Southern Africa’s aging railway infrastructure.

Huawei and SARA Commit to Collaboration

Opening the summit, Victor Guo, President of Huawei Enterprise Business in Sub-Saharan Africa, highlighted that digital intelligence will be the “key engine accelerating the development of railways in Southern Africa.” He underscored Huawei’s commitment to working with regional stakeholders by leveraging innovations in cloud computing, AI, big data, and video detection.

Raymond Zuo, CEO of Huawei Smart Rail Business Unit, emphasized that Africa’s rail sector stands at a turning point. He called for strengthened partnerships and open innovation, affirming Huawei’s support for SARA’s mission to create a safer, more efficient, and smarter railway network across the region.

Smart Railway Solutions Showcased

Participants at the summit explored Huawei’s portfolio of digital railway technologies, including:

• FRMCS train-ground wireless standard – enabling modernized communications across railway networks.
• Cloud and AI-powered platforms – supporting data-driven decision-making and operational efficiency.
• Perimeter security systems – designed to enhance safety along railway tracks.
• TFDS freight car fault detection – providing predictive maintenance to improve asset reliability.
• Intelligent Operation Centers (IOC) – centralizing railway operations for smarter management.

These solutions aim to help operators reduce risks, improve service delivery, and boost regional trade connectivity.

The summit builds on a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed in 2023 between Huawei and SARA. The agreement outlined plans for unified ICT standards across Southern African rail corridors, with a strong focus on the adoption of FRMCS. This framework is expected to promote seamless cross-border railway operations and facilitate economic integration across the SADC region.

Rail transport remains a lifeline for Southern Africa’s economies, but inefficiencies, aging infrastructure, and safety gaps have limited its potential. The integration of digital technologies is now seen as essential to revitalizing the sector, improving competitiveness, and supporting long-term growth.

By combining Huawei’s expertise in ICT with SARA’s regional leadership, the Huawei Railway Summit 2025 signaled a shared commitment to unlocking the promise of a safer, smarter, and more efficient railway system that can meet the demands of a rapidly changing economy.

The United Kingdom has reaffirmed its commitment to deepening cybersecurity cooperation with Nigeria, pledging technical assistance, intelligence sharing, and strategic frameworks to address growing digital threats.

At the “Anticipatory, Cyber and Digital Diplomacy” seminar held in Abuja on September 2, 2025, UK officials emphasized the importance of safeguarding Nigeria’s digital landscape against cybercrime, disinformation, and emerging risks linked to artificial intelligence (AI).

British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Richard Montgomery, described the collaboration as “vital for strengthening national resilience,” noting that cyber threats have become increasingly sophisticated. He highlighted the potential misuse of AI to amplify disinformation and hate speech, warning that both nations must stay ahead of evolving risks.

Expanding the Cybersecurity MoU

The UK and Nigeria first signed a cybersecurity Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in 2024. Under the expanded framework, cooperation now spans five key areas:

• Threat hunting
• Cyber threat intelligence sharing
• Protection of critical national infrastructure
• Digital forensics
• Incident response planning

This expansion reflects a shift from policy dialogue to more practical, technical, and operational cooperation.

Broader Security and Digital Initiatives

The partnership builds on several recent milestones:

• July 2025: The Third UK–Nigeria Security and Defence Partnership Dialogue in London prioritized cybercrime, disinformation, AI misuse, and hybrid threats.
• May 2025: Nigeria launched a Joint Case Team on Cybercrime with UK and Commonwealth support, bringing together agencies like the EFCC, Police, and Ministry of Justice to coordinate investigations and prosecutions.
• May 2025: A Fraud MoU was signed to improve fraud prevention and strengthen prosecutions.
• March 2025: The UK concluded a Cybersecurity Trade Mission in Nigeria, where experts and stakeholders worked on frameworks for a National Cybersecurity Architecture.

Both countries have pledged to continue their strategic partnership, with the next round of the UK–Nigeria Security and Defence Dialogue scheduled for 2026 in Abuja. Analysts say the success of these initiatives will depend on effective implementation, funding, and the ability to balance cybersecurity with digital rights.

“Cybersecurity is no longer a national challenge but a global one,” Montgomery stressed. “By working together, the UK and Nigeria can set a model for resilience and responsible governance in the digital age.”

Elon Musk’s artificial intelligence company, xAI, has ignited heated debate with the launch of a new feature in its Grok chatbot, a sexualized anime-inspired AI companion called Ani.

Marketed under Grok’s “Companion Mode,” Ani is designed to flirt, roleplay, and form pseudo-romantic connections with users. But within days of release, Ani has become one of the most controversial AI launches of the year.

What Is Ani?

Ani appears as a goth-themed, blonde anime character. According to xAI, she is meant to provide “personalized companionship,” remembering user details such as names and preferences, while offering playful or intimate responses.

Access to Ani is included in the Super Grok premium plan (about $30 per month). However, multiple reports suggest that some users are able to access Ani’s features outside the subscription tier, including within Grok’s Kids Mode; a revelation that has alarmed parents and child safety advocates.

Reactions and Concerns

Escalating Conversations

Tech journalists who tested Ani reported that interactions often escalate quickly into sexually explicit or BDSM-themed dialogue. A Verge reporter noted that within 24 hours, Ani was already suggesting bondage scenarios.

Child Safety Risks

Critics are raising alarms after Ani was found accessible to minors. Parenting experts have labeled the move “dangerous and irresponsible,” warning that the bot’s flirtatious persona could distort how young users understand relationships and intimacy.

Ethical Debate

While some adult users view Ani as a lighthearted experiment in digital companionship, ethicists argue that the feature risks encouraging emotional dependency and unhealthy attachments. “This is less about innovation and more about exploitation,” one AI researcher told Time.

Broader Context

The launch of Ani comes at a time when AI chatbots are increasingly being used for companionship and emotional support. Companies like Replika and Character.AI have experimented with virtual partners, but xAI’s Ani stands out for its overtly sexualized design and lack of strict safeguards.

The controversy also follows earlier criticism of Grok, which previously drew backlash for spreading misinformation and extremist outputs. Ani’s debut has further amplified concerns about whether Musk’s push for “unfiltered AI” is putting growth ahead of responsibility.

xAI has not issued a formal statement addressing safety concerns surrounding Ani. Meanwhile, regulators and watchdog groups are calling for clearer age restrictions, content filters, and transparency in AI companion design.

As debates continue, Ani is emerging as a flashpoint in the global discussion about the ethics of AI companionship—and a reminder that the line between innovation and irresponsibility remains razor-thin.

Apple is preparing a major shift in its iPhone lineup, with reports saying the company is working on a redesign cycle that will stretch over the next three years and culminate in the release of its first foldable iPhone. The device is projected to debut in late 2026, with broader availability and market push expected in 2027, coinciding with the iPhone’s 20th anniversary.
Reports say Apple’s strategy begins with the iPhone 17 Air in 2025, designed to be slimmer and lighter. In 2026, attention will turn to the company’s first foldable iPhone, and by 2027 Apple could unveil an all-glass design iPhone to mark two decades since the original launch.

This phased approach reflects how Apple typically introduces major design shifts, ensuring each step aligns with its long-term hardware and ecosystem goals.

Foldable Design in Focus

According to supply chain leaks and analyst projections, the foldable iPhone is expected to adopt a book-style design, opening vertically like Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold models. It could feature a 5.5-inch external screen and a larger 7.8-inch internal display, with Apple reportedly working on ways to minimize the crease effect found in most foldable screens.

Materials under consideration include titanium and stainless steel, providing a balance of durability and lightweight construction. Early specifications suggest a thickness of around 9 mm when folded, and about 4.5 mm when opened.

Key Features Under Review

Reports also say the foldable iPhone may replace Face ID with a side-mounted Touch ID sensor, reflecting design constraints in foldable displays. It could also adopt an eSIM-only setup, dropping the physical SIM slot entirely.

The camera system is rumored to include multiple lenses across different panels; with options on the cover display, the inner screen, and the rear aimed at enhancing both photography and videography.

Pricing and Market Positioning

Pricing projections for the foldable model range from $2,000 to $2,500, placing it among the most expensive smartphones in the market. Analysts believe Apple will position the device as a high-end flagship for early adopters, while reinforcing its presence in the growing foldable category.
The move comes as global smartphone sales slow and manufacturers search for new growth opportunities. Rivals such as Samsung, Huawei, and Oppo already have multiple foldable devices in the market. Analysts say Apple’s entry, even later than competitors, could reshape consumer demand—just as it did with categories like smartwatches and wireless earbuds.
While Apple has not officially confirmed a foldable iPhone, reports indicate that mass production could begin in 2026. The timing would align with Apple’s strategy of introducing groundbreaking products during milestone years, making 2027 a symbolic target for the device.

For now, customers can expect incremental updates with the iPhone 16 lineup later this year, but all signs point to a more dramatic evolution of the iPhone as Apple prepares for its next chapter.

The Academy Awards, one of the most prestigious events in global entertainment, could soon find itself at the center of a broadcasting shake-up. According to fresh reports from Bloomberg and other outlets, YouTube has formally expressed interest in acquiring broadcast and streaming rights to the Oscars, positioning itself as a challenger to the traditional network dominance that has defined the ceremony for decades.

YouTube’s Ambition to Host the Oscars

YouTube, with its 2.7 billion monthly users, has long cemented its status as the world’s most influential video platform. Its recent inquiry into Oscars rights is being hailed by industry watchers as a bold move that could redefine how audiences experience live cultural events. The appeal is clear: while traditional television viewership has steadily declined, YouTube thrives among younger demographics who increasingly consume live events and highlights online rather than through cable television.

Analysts argue that the Oscars’ migration to YouTube. If this happens, it could inject the ceremony with fresh relevance. Features like live chat, polls, real-time audience engagement, and instant replay clips could make the show interactive in ways traditional TV cannot match.

ABC’s Standing Contract: A Barrier to Entry

However, YouTube’s ambitions face a significant hurdle. ABC currently holds exclusive U.S. broadcast rights to the Oscars through 2028, under a contract signed with the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences in 2016. This deal not only secures ABC’s coverage but also extends its global distribution partnerships.

The partnership between ABC and the Oscars is longstanding, dating back to 1976. While viewership has fluctuated over the years, hitting historic lows in the 2020s—ABC has retained the prestige of hosting Hollywood’s biggest night. For YouTube to step in, it would either need to negotiate terms for after 2028, or strike an unprecedented arrangement that coexists alongside ABC’s deal, which appears unlikely.

YouTube Expresses Interest To Host The Oscars, Plans To Buy Rights — Reports pic.twitter.com/fPP55qj6K5

— Streamdorm Film Updates 🎥 (@Streamdorm_) August 18, 2025

What This Means for the Oscars

The Oscars have battled declining TV ratings in recent years, prompting the Academy to explore new ways of reaching younger and global audiences. Moving to a digital-first platform like YouTube could potentially address both challenges:

• Global Reach: YouTube’s international accessibility could expand the Oscars’ footprint beyond traditional TV markets.  
• Youth Engagement: With Gen Z and millennials spending far more time on YouTube than cable, the ceremony could reclaim cultural relevance.
• Interactivity: Live engagement features could transform a passive viewing experience into an active, social one.

On the other hand, such a move raises questions about prestige and tradition. Would streaming dilute the Oscars’ aura as a formal, televised event? Could the Academy risk alienating long-time audiences who still prefer the TV broadcast format?

For now, ABC’s standing contract means YouTube’s interest remains speculative. But the fact that YouTube is actively inquiring about rights signals a shifting tide in entertainment broadcasting. If the Oscars were to transition to YouTube in the future, it could mark one of the most significant cultural and technological shifts in awards-show history.
One thing is clear: the conversation about where the Oscars belong in the digital era has officially begun.

In 2025, more Nigerians than ever before are searching for ‘remote jobs’ and ‘work-from-home opportunitiesand the reasons run deeper than just convenience. From economic shifts to the global digital revolution, the desire for flexible, location-independent work is shaping a new employment culture in Nigeria.

A Surge in Remote Work Searches

According to Google Trends and job boards like LinkedIn, Jobberman, and Remote OK, Nigeria has seen a steady spike in interest in remote work terms, especially among Gen Z, recent graduates, and professionals looking to switch careers. Whether it’s freelance, contract-based, or full-time remote employment, Nigerians are actively exploring work-from-home options across tech, marketing, content creation, customer service, and more.

Why Are Nigerians So Invested in Remote Jobs?

The Rising Cost of Living

From fuel prices to transportation costs, commuting to a physical office has become expensive. Working remotely eliminates daily costs like transport, food, and office wear. In a country where inflation continues to bite, saving money while earning is a big win.

Global Job Access

Remote work gives Nigerians access to global job markets. A developer in Lagos can now work for a startup in Berlin or a design agency in Toronto, earning in dollars or euros. Platforms like Upwork, Toptal, Fiverr, and Deel are making this possible.

Flexibility and Work-Life Balance

Many Nigerians, especially women, are seeking ways to juggle family and work life. Remote roles offer more control over schedules, fewer hours commuting, and the flexibility to manage both professional and personal demands.

The Rise of the Tech and Digital Economy

With the tech boom in Africa, many startups and tech companies now operate virtually. Roles in software engineering, UI/UX design, digital marketing, data entry, and customer support are increasingly remote-first.

Influence of the Pandemic and Global Shifts

COVID-19 normalized remote work globally, and many Nigerian companies were forced to adapt. While the world has largely reopened, the mindset shift remains. Even traditional firms now offer hybrid models, and young Nigerians are demanding flexibility as part of the employment package.

What Types of Remote Jobs Are Most in Demand?

• Tech Roles (Developers, DevOps, Product Managers)
• Virtual Assistants
• Content Writers & Copywriters
• Social Media Managers & Digital Marketers
• Graphic Designers & UI/UX Designers
• Online Tutors & Customer Support Reps

Where Nigerians Are Finding These Jobs

• Global platforms: Upwork, LinkedIn, Remote.co, Indeed, We Work Remotely
• Nigerian-specific sites: Jobberman, MyJobMag, and remote job groups on Twitter and Telegram
• Tech programs like AltSchool Africa, Ingressive for Good, and HNG Internship also connect participants with remote opportunities after training

Remote work isn’t just a trend—it’s becoming a lifestyle and a necessity in Nigeria. With internet access expanding and digital skills in demand, more Nigerians are discovering that they don’t need to leave home or the country to earn a global income.

The future of work in Nigeria is hybrid, borderless, and remote-ready. And for many, the search for remote jobs isn’t just about work—it’s about freedom, sustainability, and a chance to thrive on their own terms.