On Oct 23, Apple has “a little more to show”

Mark your calendars folks because on Oct 13, Apple has "a little more to show" as per the special media invite that was sent this Tuesday.

The Loop reports that the event is scheduled to take place at 10:00 am PT on Oct 23, at the California Theatre in San Jose. The tagline of the invitation shows an Apple logo with a colorful background and the tagline reads "We've got a little more to show you."

It is widely expected that Apple will use this opportunity to announce a smaller iPad. Some are calling it at the 'iPad Air'. The iPad Mini will be smaller and lighter in size as compared to the current iPad and will feature a smaller 7-8 inch display.

Also some are speculating that Apple might also introduce a new 13-inch retina display Macbook along with a refreshed line of iMac and Mac Mini.



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Apple Airs Two New iPad mini TV Commercials: Photos And Books

It should be common knowledge by now that Apple has recently added iPad mini to their iPad lineup, and the unexpected addition of the fourth-generation iPad, coming only seven months after the introduction of the iPad 3. All of the signs point to the new miniature iPad being an extremely successful addition to the company’s tablet range, and with LTE variants of the iPad mini beginning to ship this week, Apple has ramped up their promotional campaign with the launch of two new iPad mini commercials.

Tim Cook and his executive team seem to take great pride in introducing the first commercial for the new iPads that featured the wonderful and catchy Heart and Soul being played on a piano within the GarageBand app. Although pre-order stocks of the iPad mini were immediately depleted, and a large portion of Apple Stores are having inventory issues due to high demand, it hasn’t stopped Apple from releasing the new Books and Photos adverts to raise excitement levels in time for the holiday shopping season.

iPad mini Photos

Apple and their media partners have obviously chosen to take a particular path with these promotional campaigns that are being launched to increase the hype around the two new iPads. The first new commercial that has been launched has been given the title ‘Books’ and focuses heavily on the iBooks app that has recently received a v3 update. The Cupertino company has been keen on giving iBooks a big push recently in the hope of gaining some traction in the education sector. As we have seen with the original Piano ad, both the Books and Photo creations feature the same visual approach by sitting the full-sized iPad and the iPad mini next to one another.

iPad mini Books

The iPhoto app also gets a good run out in the third commercial to be showcased. The well known Two of a Kind song by Bobby Darin is belting out in the background as the iPad mini and the fourth-generation iPad are shown using the iPhoto app. Both of the tablets are used to perfection, with photographs being displayed on each screen that perfectly compliment each other. The three adverts that we have seen so far may follow Apple’s extremely simplistic style but they have clearly been extremely well though out in an attempt to push both new iPads.

These two new Apple TV ads can be viewed by heading over to the following link: apple.com/ipad/videos/

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Steam Beta for Linux Now Available for Download

Linux gamers have something to rejoice about as Valve has launched a limited access beta of its popular gaming platform, Steam. For those who don’t know, Steam is a leading platform for the delivery and management of PC and Mac games with over 50 million accounts around the world and over 2,000 titles offered.

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“This is a huge milestone in the development of PC gaming. Steam users have been asking us to support gaming on Linux. We’re happy to bring rich forms of entertainment and our community of users to this open, customer-friendly platform.” Gabe Newell, Valve President.

Currently supporting over 24 titles, including some big free titles like Team Fortress 2, Frozen Synapse, and Serious Sam 3, the number of games for Steam for Linux are bound to grown as it reaches its final release. The beta is currently compatible with Ubuntu 12.04 and features Big Picture mode allowing users to connect their Linux PC to a TV and then browse, purchase, and play all Steam games optionally with a controller.

Since it is available as limited access beta, invites will be going out to a small number of users who have registered for it and once the beta becomes stable, it will be available to all Linux gamers.

For more details about the beta release, head over to the official Steam for Linux community page.

Related posts:

  • Microsoft going the Steam distribution way for games
  • Left 4 Dead 2 For Mac OS X Releasing Tomorrow On Steam
  • Google Chrome Beta for Mac OS X and Linux released
  • Unbelievable claims by Linux Foundation CEO
  • Valve releases ‘Left 4 Dead’ for Mac OS X on Halloween


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    Nokia Global Launch in Pakistan: First Time Ever!

    We are invited to a number of launch events and we have almost attended all of them, and being in Pakistan we have always been part of launch events for devices that are about to be launched in Pakistan.

    Thanks to Nokia Pakistan, for the first time ever, a new Nokia phone announcement was made from Pakistan at a global launch event held at Marriott Hotel, Karachi last week.

    This was a media event held just for the traditional media, newspapers/magazines and online media (this is where we come in!). Sizzled Core, along with a bunch of other bloggers around Pakistan were invited to be a part of this grand event.

    Nokia’s decision to choose Pakistan for the global launch of their upcoming devices was a clear sign of how important Pakistani market is for Nokia. Nokia envisions to connect the next billion people with the newly launched Nokia 110 and Nokia 112. Great presentations, and overview of how strong the telecommunications industry is in Pakistan, dance, music, fireworks… This was all part of the Nokia event.

    Nokia has the biggest app store in Pakistan which includes 2,000,000+ weekly downloads on average! Almost all of media fro mPakistan is accessible on the Nokia Store â€" apps include: Geo, Aaj TV, Dawn News, Express Tribune, ARY News, Radio Pakistan etc.

    Some really cool local applications are also available, such as Cricket, Ludo, Toffee TV etc. Islamic apps on the App store have millions of downloads. There are over 400 local apps, with 200+ Pakistan developers contributing to the Nokia App store which bring the download count of the Pakistani content to over 17 million!

    These statistics and figures were shared by the three key speakers of the main event â€" Imran Khalid Mahmood, Saulo Passos and Calin Turcanu. The event had global and regional spokesperson from Nokia to share their thoughts on emerging markets and the new devices. Let’s take a brief intro to each of these speakers.

    Imran Khalid Mahmood

    Imran Khalid Mahmood is the VP, Near East, Nokia Corporation. In his line of duty he is responsible for heading the sales strategy for Nokia in this region. He is the frontrunner of all measurable KPIs and maintains a strict vigilance over them which are the main reason for Nokia’s success and popularity in this region.

    Saulo Passos

    Saulo Passos is the Global Director Mobile Phone Communications at Nokia, based in London, England. As part of the global Mobile Phones leadership team, his main focus targets the Next Billion strategy, a Nokia effort to connect more people to the internet, using a mobile device as the leading path.

    Calin Turcanu

    Starting from August, 2011, Calin Turcanu is the Head of Mobile Phones Business Unit, Nokia India, Middle East & Africa and overseessales, marketing and business development of Nokia devices in the region. Calin is actively involved in developing business strategies to ensure market success of key Nokia devices and strengthen Nokia’s brand presence in the region at the same time.

    Remember the dance and music I mentioned earlier? Check out the photo below.

    We’ll try to get a full video coverage for you to watch it as well. This performance was just before the Nokia team unveiled their new Nokia 110 and Nokia 112.

    These new devices will be available in Pakistan and soon after into rest of the world, starting from the end of May. Prices of these new Nokia phones were one of them ain concerns by the attendees there. Nokia 110 is priced at Rs. 3800 and Nokia 112 will be available for Rs. 4000. Very affordable, isn’t it?

    Nokia is continuously working on making the value rich features affordable to all price points â€" Nokia 110 and Nokia 112 are great examples of how even the entry-level Nokia devices don’t just offer optimized and affordable internet but at the same time flaunt a stylish design that will cater to a variety of lifestyles.

    These devices will prove to be a true enabler in providing the people of Pakistan and the consumers from other growing economies with their first internet experience on mobile phone. Having internet on mobile phone opens up doors for new opportunities for the masses and helps them follow their dreams.

    Now, we expect Nokia to make a bigger global launch announcement from Pakistan next time!



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    E-Panorama

    (For PCWorld Pakistan)

    National Assembly Calls for a Ban on Prepaid SIMs

    The National Assembly’s selected committee will soon finalize the draft for Electronic Crime Bill. It has put forth the notion of a complete ban on all prepaid SIMs, asking the telecommunication operators to convert them to postpaid connections.

    According to the National Assembly, this is the only way to save the nation from crimes that occur due to the misuse of illegal mobile SIMs.

    Windows 8 Available at PKR 1,310 in Pakistan 

    Microsoft has recently announced the availability of the Windows 8 Operating System for its customers in Pakistan. The OS is now available for sale in over 250,000 PCs at more than 1,000 retail stores across Pakistan (including at Hyperstar, Metro, E4U, Makro, and Compsi).

    With a special offer, Microsoft is offering all Windows users to upgrade their operating systems to Windows 8 for just Rs.1, 310, provided however, that they have purchased a compatible desktop or laptop during the period of June 2, 2012 and January 31, 2013, which had Windows 7 pre-installed in it.

    However, those who didn’t buy a computer during the above-mentioned timeframe, but still have genuine Windows XP, Windows Vista, or Windows 7 installed, can upgrade to Windows 8 for the usual going price of Rs.3,800 ($40).

    Telecom imports raised by 19.85 percent: PBS

    According to the data released by Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS), the country’s telecom imports for the current fiscal year have risen by 19.85% from the last year. It was revealed that the overall imports of the telecom group were at about $363.179 million this quarter, compared with $303.028 million from the first quarter of the previous year. Also, the import of mobile phones was up by 1.59% from $164.300 million to $166.913 million this year.

    The data also revealed that the imports of other telecom apparatus have increased by 41.48% this year, with an increase of 9.52% in the month of September as compared with the same month for the previous year. The imports for the month of September stood at $63.708 million this year, with $52.273 million in 2011.

    Samsung Galaxy S3 tops Smartphone Market

    Samsung’s flagship Smartphone Galaxy S3 has managed to topple down arch-rival Apple’s iPhone in the Smartphone market, according to research firm, Strategy Analytics. Previously, Apple’s iPhone had dominated the Smartphone market for over two years.

    According to the data released by Strategy Analytics, the sale of the S3 units in the third quarter was 18 million, compared with the iPhone 4S sale of 16.2 million units.  The Galaxy S3 has helped Samsung earn a record profit of $7.3 billion in the third quarter of 2012. An analyst Neil Mawston said, “Samsung’s Galaxy S3 has proven wildly popular with consumers and operators across North America, Europe and Asia.”

    The Smartphone was first launched in May this year, and entered the Pakistani market in June, 2012.



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    PM Inaugurates USF Optic Fiber Projects in Balochistan

    PM Inaugurates USF Optic Fiber Projects in Balochistan

    By Mehwish Khan · Monday, Nov 12, 2012 0 Comments

    pm inaugurating optic fiber project thumb PM Inaugurates USF Optic Fiber Projects in BalochistanRaja Pervez Ashraf, Prime Minister of Pakistan inaugurated Optic Fiber Projects of Universal Service Fund in Balochistan.

    Universal Service Fund has been vigorously working in Balochistan province and through all these projects, more than 5,400 kms of Optic fiber cable is being laid due to which 74 tehsil HQs and towns are being connected. Around 6.45 Million people will benefit through these projects.

    USF has also done a remarkable job in Rural Telecom Projects in Balochistan province. Through Pishin Lot, Nasirabad Lot and Mastung Lot 1,062 previously unserved mauzas are being covered and a lot more is to come for un-served population of the province.

    The success of USF is evident from the fact that it has provided telecom services to almost 3,600 previously un-served villages. 260 previously un-served towns now have almost 412,000 USF funded broadband connections.

    Optic Fiber cable of more than 4,217 KMs has also been laid to connect un-served tehsils. New initiatives of USF include a Telemedicine project and establishment of Universal Tele-Centers for proliferation of e-services."



    Related Stories
    • USF Launches Telecom Service Project for Balochistan
    • USF Awards Rs. 2.9 Bln Projects for Broadband and Optic Fiber
    • Wateen Wins USF’s Balochistan Fiber Optic Project
    • PTCL and Wateen Gets Rs. 1.25 Bln Contracts from USF for Broadband and Optic Fiber Projects
    • PM Approves USF Projects in Balochistan and Sindh
    • Uplifting The Rural Telecommunication Standards [Video]
    • World Telecom Day: Better Life in Rural Communities with ICTs


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    On Oct 23, Apple has “a little more to show”

    Mark your calendars folks because on Oct 13, Apple has "a little more to show" as per the special media invite that was sent this Tuesday.

    The Loop reports that the event is scheduled to take place at 10:00 am PT on Oct 23, at the California Theatre in San Jose. The tagline of the invitation shows an Apple logo with a colorful background and the tagline reads "We've got a little more to show you."

    It is widely expected that Apple will use this opportunity to announce a smaller iPad. Some are calling it at the 'iPad Air'. The iPad Mini will be smaller and lighter in size as compared to the current iPad and will feature a smaller 7-8 inch display.

    Also some are speculating that Apple might also introduce a new 13-inch retina display Macbook along with a refreshed line of iMac and Mac Mini.



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    This App Audibly Reads Out Your WhatsApp Messages On Android, Adds Voice Commands

    Whether you’re into Siri, Google Now, Tellme, or Samsung’s S Voice, there’s little doubt that voice-recognition technology has made great strides in the past year or so. Consumers remain a tad unconvinced, and at present, the standard of voice implementation is certainly not a deal-breaker to most, but like the first grainy VGA cameras we used to see in our mobile phones, we do have a nagging feeling we’re soon to become reliant.

    More recently, we’ve seen voice commands bundled into third-party apps, too. With Apple slightly opening up Siri for their own apps at least, we will definitely see in the future iOS devs finally able to make their own apps based partially â€" or even wholly â€" on voice, and while the major companies have done a decent job in bringing the technologies up to a substantial level, you feel now is the time where the power of voice can really be put to the test.

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    WhatsApp messenger is among the first of the major apps to get a taste of voice commands. If you’ve never heard of WhatsApp, it’s the most popular cross-platform messaging service available. Whether on iOS or Android, BlackBerry or Windows Phone, one can send free SMS, images, videos and voice notes with ease, and all for free (providing some form of data connection is in place). For those running on Android, XDA-Developers Senior Member pacosal has released a beta version of Voice for WhatsApp, and it allows you to use your sound hole to control certain functions within the application.

    Whatsapp voice

    You can use your voice to write your messages, and a voice will also dictate your received messages, should be distracted (or just wishing to show off). When your device receives a WhatsApp notification, the voice implementation will then read out the message. Note: it won’t just randomly begin sounding off your (possibly private) messages at will â€" it will only do so when the screen is turned on â€" so if you’re in an environment whereby audible private WhatsApp messages read aloud is seen as taboo (let’s face it, where isn’t?), then you needn’t worry.

    Whatsapp voice 2

    It’s in beta, so it’s a little rough around the edges, but it’s showing great promise, and knowing how many intelligent, hardworking folk exist at XDA, I wouldn’t be surprised to see a very polished version in the near future. In the meantime, if you wish to  give it a go, please download the APK provided here.

    You can follow us on Twitter, add us to your circle on Google+ or like our Facebook page to keep yourself updated on all the latest from Microsoft, Google, Apple, and the Web.

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    Xbox SmartGlass App Now Available for iOS

    Good new for iOS users owning Xbox 360 as Microsoft has replaced their Xbox Live app for iOS with Xbox SmartGlass app. SmartGlass was announced by Microsoft back in E3 2012 for iOS and Android devices. The Android version was released a few weeks ago. Using SmartGlass iOS app, users will be able to control their Xbox 360 consoles using touchscreen swipes and the controller buttons assigned to corners of their device screen.

    Once the app is launched, it shows five different screens to swipe through which includes Bing search, home, social, recent, and discover. Just like its Android counterpart, users can interact with their Xbox 360 to track and compare their achievements against their friends, edit their profile, navigate the interface and search content.

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    Additionally, users will be able to chat with friends and customize their avatar, play, pause, fast forward, rewind, and stop videos and music on their Xbox 360 and browse the Internet on their console using their iOS device.Check out official demo video below to learn more about Xbox SmartGlass:

    The app is available for free download in App Store but unfortunately, it isn’t optimized for iPhone 5′s 4-inch screen yet.

    Xbox SmartGlass App [App Store Link]

    Related posts:

  • Microsoft Announces Xbox Music for Windows 8 and Xbox 360 â€" iOS and Android Apps Coming Soon
  • How Apple should combat Windows Phone 7 Series gaming
  • Fruit Ninja Released For Xbox Kinect [DOWNLOAD]
  • Xbox Live App for iPhone
  • New Xbox LIVE Metro UI With Bing Integration Demo! [VIDEO]


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    Nokia Global Launch in Pakistan: First Time Ever!

    We are invited to a number of launch events and we have almost attended all of them, and being in Pakistan we have always been part of launch events for devices that are about to be launched in Pakistan.

    Thanks to Nokia Pakistan, for the first time ever, a new Nokia phone announcement was made from Pakistan at a global launch event held at Marriott Hotel, Karachi last week.

    This was a media event held just for the traditional media, newspapers/magazines and online media (this is where we come in!). Sizzled Core, along with a bunch of other bloggers around Pakistan were invited to be a part of this grand event.

    Nokia’s decision to choose Pakistan for the global launch of their upcoming devices was a clear sign of how important Pakistani market is for Nokia. Nokia envisions to connect the next billion people with the newly launched Nokia 110 and Nokia 112. Great presentations, and overview of how strong the telecommunications industry is in Pakistan, dance, music, fireworks… This was all part of the Nokia event.

    Nokia has the biggest app store in Pakistan which includes 2,000,000+ weekly downloads on average! Almost all of media fro mPakistan is accessible on the Nokia Store â€" apps include: Geo, Aaj TV, Dawn News, Express Tribune, ARY News, Radio Pakistan etc.

    Some really cool local applications are also available, such as Cricket, Ludo, Toffee TV etc. Islamic apps on the App store have millions of downloads. There are over 400 local apps, with 200+ Pakistan developers contributing to the Nokia App store which bring the download count of the Pakistani content to over 17 million!

    These statistics and figures were shared by the three key speakers of the main event â€" Imran Khalid Mahmood, Saulo Passos and Calin Turcanu. The event had global and regional spokesperson from Nokia to share their thoughts on emerging markets and the new devices. Let’s take a brief intro to each of these speakers.

    Imran Khalid Mahmood

    Imran Khalid Mahmood is the VP, Near East, Nokia Corporation. In his line of duty he is responsible for heading the sales strategy for Nokia in this region. He is the frontrunner of all measurable KPIs and maintains a strict vigilance over them which are the main reason for Nokia’s success and popularity in this region.

    Saulo Passos

    Saulo Passos is the Global Director Mobile Phone Communications at Nokia, based in London, England. As part of the global Mobile Phones leadership team, his main focus targets the Next Billion strategy, a Nokia effort to connect more people to the internet, using a mobile device as the leading path.

    Calin Turcanu

    Starting from August, 2011, Calin Turcanu is the Head of Mobile Phones Business Unit, Nokia India, Middle East & Africa and overseessales, marketing and business development of Nokia devices in the region. Calin is actively involved in developing business strategies to ensure market success of key Nokia devices and strengthen Nokia’s brand presence in the region at the same time.

    Remember the dance and music I mentioned earlier? Check out the photo below.

    We’ll try to get a full video coverage for you to watch it as well. This performance was just before the Nokia team unveiled their new Nokia 110 and Nokia 112.

    These new devices will be available in Pakistan and soon after into rest of the world, starting from the end of May. Prices of these new Nokia phones were one of them ain concerns by the attendees there. Nokia 110 is priced at Rs. 3800 and Nokia 112 will be available for Rs. 4000. Very affordable, isn’t it?

    Nokia is continuously working on making the value rich features affordable to all price points â€" Nokia 110 and Nokia 112 are great examples of how even the entry-level Nokia devices don’t just offer optimized and affordable internet but at the same time flaunt a stylish design that will cater to a variety of lifestyles.

    These devices will prove to be a true enabler in providing the people of Pakistan and the consumers from other growing economies with their first internet experience on mobile phone. Having internet on mobile phone opens up doors for new opportunities for the masses and helps them follow their dreams.

    Now, we expect Nokia to make a bigger global launch announcement from Pakistan next time!



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    E-Panorama

    (For PCWorld Pakistan)

    Pakistani Windows 8 app Attains 70,000 Plus Downloads

    A Windows 8 app for Google maps, called G Maps, got more than 70,000 downloads in its first week of launch at Windows 8 Marketplace. The app provides Street view, Weather, Live Traffic and Photo stream support.

    The app is developed by a Lahore based startup called, Data Arc, which specializes in software development for mobile and tablets for different platforms. The company also claims to be the first to submit an app to Windows 8 marketplace from the country.

    Earlier, Microsoft called the students and developers’ community to help grow the Windows App store, specially its newly introduced operating system. Hence, the Windows 8 Marketplace is expected to grow largely in the coming months.

    3 Million iPads Sold in Three Days: Apple

    Apple reported that it has sold three million iPads in the first three days of its launch of its iPad mini and fourth-generation iPad. Commenting on the sales, the company also said that the demand for iPad mini has ‘exceeded the initial supply.’ This could very well mean that some orders will be delayed to next month.

    However, the iPhone maker has not provided separate sale figures for the two devices. In a statement, Apple’s Chief Tim Cook said, “Customers around the world love the new iPad mini and fourth-generation iPad. We set a new launch weekend record and practically sold out of iPad minis. We’re working hard to build more quickly to meet the incredible demand.”

    Both the devices were launched on Friday simultaneously in about 34 countries.

    US Judge Rejects Apple’s Demand Against Google

    A US Judge dismissed Apple’s allegations according to which Google is excessively charging for its Motorola patents. Google’s Motorola unit has sought 2.25% of the price of Apple products that use some of its patents, which Apple said was too high.

    Earlier, Motorola demanded the court to set a price on which Apple said that it would not pay more than $1 per device. The industry-essential patents are expected to be offered under fair licensing terms.

    Motorola has asked Apple to negotiate to reach to an agreement and said, “Motorola has long offered licensing to our extensive patent portfolio at a reasonable and non-discriminatory rate in line with industry standards.”

    Microsoft’s CEO Anticipates Growth in the Sales of Windows Phone 

    In Android and iPhone dominant market, Microsoft CEO, Steve Ballmer, pins hope on its Windows Phone to become the next strong contender in the industry. He expects its sales to grow faster in the coming days.

    Steve Ballmer said, “With the work we have done with Nokia, HTC, Samsung and others … there is now an opportunity to create really a strong third participant in the smartphone market.” He added, “We are still relatively small … I expect the volumes on Windows Phone to really ramp quickly.”

    He also assured that more marketing and advertising will be done around Windows 8, its Surface tablet and Windows Phone than the previous Microsoft products. Commenting on the initial reaction on the company’s new products, Ballmer said, “The initial reaction to these products has been really really phenomenal … And if you look at how people will get Windows 8, the truth of the matter is more people over time will get Windows 8 by buying a new computer than by upgrading old computers.”



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    Mobile SIMs to be Delivered to Subscribers’ Home Addresses: Rahman Malik

    Mobile SIMs to be Delivered to Subscribers’ Home Addresses: Rahman Malik

    By Aamir Attaa · Thursday, Nov 8, 2012 0 Comments

    Rahman Malik Mobile SIMs to be Delivered to Subscribers Home Addresses: Rahman MalikShops, retailers and franchises won’t be allowed to sell mobile phone SIMs from December 1st, 2012; instead mobile phone operators will have to deliver SIMs at customers’ home addresses mentioned on customers’ CNICs, said Mr. Rahman Malik during a press briefing today.

    Citing security reasons (something he has miserably failed to provide to countrymen), Mr. Malik explained that mobile phone operators will be directed to make necessary arrangements to dispatch all new mobile SIMs to customers home addresses given on their CNICs.

    Mr. Malik also said that every mobile phone customer must get their SIMs registered before November 30th, or …. well he didn’t mention the or part yet. He urged mobile phone operators to open new offices to facilitate registration of SIMs.

    Another government body, i.e. National Assembly’s standing committee had recently proposed to ban all prepaid SIMs in the country. Mr. Malik had had also expressed his plans for banning prepaid SIMs in August 2012, however, he took back his statement in just few days and said that only illegal SIMs will be blocked.

    Industry’s Reaction:

    It is too early to calculate cellular industry’s reaction over the statement. Telecom officials, we spoke with, were not astonished by such mindless plan, explaining that industry is pretty much used to of such surprises from Mr. Malik.

    Officials of telecom companies told ProPakistani that this is un-doable thing, especially when customers’ CNIC addresses and their current addresses are usually different. They said that whole process will result into lesser acquisitions and increased operational cost that will ultimately impact the performance, economy, jobs and the society.

    “It appears that current government, in general and Mr. Rahman Malik in specific, has decided in principle to kill the industry.”

    Industry veterans expressed their reservations over the statement, while others advised us not to take Mr. Malik seriously.

    Rahman Malik’s Past Statements:

    This is not the first time that Rahman Malik has tried to entertain the audience with his ability to ask for unattainable things. Check below list, in which he has proven that he can say anything on any day:

    • New SIMs to be Posted to Posted Addresses: Rahman Malik (July 25th, 2010)
    • New SIMs to be Posted to Postal Addresses: Rehman Malik (March 20th, 2012)
    • Issue Only One SIM per One CNIC: Rahman Malik
    • SMS may get blocked in Pakistan: Rehman Malik
    • MNP to Get Banned in Pakistan: Rehman Malik
    • Google Administrator in Pakistan to be Arrested: Rehman Malik

    We have previously ranted on Mr. Malik, here are those posts with immensely .

    PTA’s Role:

    Just in case if you don’t know, one of primary functions that were defined for Pakistan Telecommunication Authority, at time of its formation, were to encourage investment, innovation and optimum growth of the cellular sector and operators’ performance.

    However, none of this is happening. During all the hard hitting on cellular industry PTA is apparently sleeping while Mr. Farooq Awan, who rarely comes to office, is so gladly enjoying his position and taxpayers’ money while doing nothing for the industry and the country.

    I believe this is enough to say about PTA and its uselessness. Rest, you know it well.



    Related Stories
    • New SIMs to be Posted to Postal Addresses: Rehman Malik
    • Rehman Malik Gets in Action Against Cellular Operators
    • All Unverified SIMs To be Blocked by May 17: PTA
    • Prime Minister for Taking Steps to Safeguard Mobile Service
    • NA Committee Calls for Complete Ban on Prepaid SIMs
    • Rehman Malik is Back with his Tech Blunders: Bans MNP
    • Issue Only One SIM per One CNIC: Rahman Malik


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    On Oct 23, Apple has “a little more to show”

    Mark your calendars folks because on Oct 13, Apple has "a little more to show" as per the special media invite that was sent this Tuesday.

    The Loop reports that the event is scheduled to take place at 10:00 am PT on Oct 23, at the California Theatre in San Jose. The tagline of the invitation shows an Apple logo with a colorful background and the tagline reads "We've got a little more to show you."

    It is widely expected that Apple will use this opportunity to announce a smaller iPad. Some are calling it at the 'iPad Air'. The iPad Mini will be smaller and lighter in size as compared to the current iPad and will feature a smaller 7-8 inch display.

    Also some are speculating that Apple might also introduce a new 13-inch retina display Macbook along with a refreshed line of iMac and Mac Mini.



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    iPad mini Hands-On Overview And Side-by-Side Size Comparison With Nexus 7 [VIDEO]

    We’ve finally gotten our hands on the new iPad mini from Apple, and our resident vlogger Steven Chi has complied a new video in which the new smaller tablet unboxed, and compared with several other key devices in the mobile game.

    Even before the cellophane was torn from the typically-white Apple box of the iPad mini, it was evident from the packaging that the 7.9-inch tablet is quite a bit smaller than its 9.7-inch counterpart. The display size isn’t the only reason why the iPad dwarfs the iPad mini, though; the bezel is a lot thinner on the longer sides of the slate, akin to the iPod touch, and not only does this arguably look quite a bit better, but it keeps the device compact, allowing one to hold it without the need to use two hands.

    mininexus

    Compared against the Nexus 7, Apple’s new tablet is quite a bit thinner. If you already have the iPad mini or have been reading up on its specs, you’ll probably already know this, but side-by-side, Apple’s take on the smaller slab is noticeably svelte compared with its ASUS-manufactured rival. Of all the tablets on the market, the Nexus 7 on Android Jelly Bean is easily the Cupertino’s biggest competitor, and although Apple will have made the minds up of many by pricing the iPad mini considerably higher, it will nonetheless be intriguing to see which one is favored by consumers.

    For the heck of it, we also measured the iPad mini up against the iPhone, and rather impressively, Apple’s newest iPad is about as thin as its flagship smartphone. The resolution is identical to that of the iPad 2, but with a smaller display, things appear a lot sharper than they do on the second-gen device. The blogosphere has been slating the resolution of the iPad mini, and whilst it’s disappointingly below the Retina par many of us are accustomed to, it’s certainly not as bad as some have claimed. The 163 ppi resolution is certainly no match for the iPhone 5 (320 ppi) or iPad 4 (264 ppi), but it does the job.

    What do you think of the new iPad mini? Please share your thoughts via the usual channels below!

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    Apple Releases iOS 6.1 Beta for iPhone, iPad and iPod Touch

    IOS 6 1 beta for iPhone iPad iPod Touch

    Apple released iOS 6.0.1 just a while ago which has been followed up with a release of iOS 6.1 beta as well as Xcode 4.6 beta. iOS 6.1 beta has a few updates for Maps, Safari and Passbook while there are some SDK updates for Map Kit. Find out more about each item after the jump.

    Here’s what’s new in Map Kit for developers:

    The Map Kit framework now lets you programmatically search for map-based addresses and points of interest. The MKLocalSearch class initiates a search for map-based content using a natural language string. In other words, you can enter placename information or portions of an address and have Map Kit return search results that match the information you provide. For example, searching for the string “coffee” would return the location of local coffee bars along with information about each one.

    If you’re a registered user, you can download iOS 6.1 beta from your Apple Developer Account

    We will update this post if we find anything new.

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  • iTunes 10.1 Beta & iOS 4.2 Beta 2 For iPhone/iPad/iPod Touch Now Available To iOS Developers
  • Download and Install iOS 5 Beta 6 On iPhone, iPad and iPod Touch
  • Download iOS 4.2 Beta 3 For iPhone, iPad And iPod Touch


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    Nokia Global Launch in Pakistan: First Time Ever!

    We are invited to a number of launch events and we have almost attended all of them, and being in Pakistan we have always been part of launch events for devices that are about to be launched in Pakistan.

    Thanks to Nokia Pakistan, for the first time ever, a new Nokia phone announcement was made from Pakistan at a global launch event held at Marriott Hotel, Karachi last week.

    This was a media event held just for the traditional media, newspapers/magazines and online media (this is where we come in!). Sizzled Core, along with a bunch of other bloggers around Pakistan were invited to be a part of this grand event.

    Nokia’s decision to choose Pakistan for the global launch of their upcoming devices was a clear sign of how important Pakistani market is for Nokia. Nokia envisions to connect the next billion people with the newly launched Nokia 110 and Nokia 112. Great presentations, and overview of how strong the telecommunications industry is in Pakistan, dance, music, fireworks… This was all part of the Nokia event.

    Nokia has the biggest app store in Pakistan which includes 2,000,000+ weekly downloads on average! Almost all of media fro mPakistan is accessible on the Nokia Store â€" apps include: Geo, Aaj TV, Dawn News, Express Tribune, ARY News, Radio Pakistan etc.

    Some really cool local applications are also available, such as Cricket, Ludo, Toffee TV etc. Islamic apps on the App store have millions of downloads. There are over 400 local apps, with 200+ Pakistan developers contributing to the Nokia App store which bring the download count of the Pakistani content to over 17 million!

    These statistics and figures were shared by the three key speakers of the main event â€" Imran Khalid Mahmood, Saulo Passos and Calin Turcanu. The event had global and regional spokesperson from Nokia to share their thoughts on emerging markets and the new devices. Let’s take a brief intro to each of these speakers.

    Imran Khalid Mahmood

    Imran Khalid Mahmood is the VP, Near East, Nokia Corporation. In his line of duty he is responsible for heading the sales strategy for Nokia in this region. He is the frontrunner of all measurable KPIs and maintains a strict vigilance over them which are the main reason for Nokia’s success and popularity in this region.

    Saulo Passos

    Saulo Passos is the Global Director Mobile Phone Communications at Nokia, based in London, England. As part of the global Mobile Phones leadership team, his main focus targets the Next Billion strategy, a Nokia effort to connect more people to the internet, using a mobile device as the leading path.

    Calin Turcanu

    Starting from August, 2011, Calin Turcanu is the Head of Mobile Phones Business Unit, Nokia India, Middle East & Africa and overseessales, marketing and business development of Nokia devices in the region. Calin is actively involved in developing business strategies to ensure market success of key Nokia devices and strengthen Nokia’s brand presence in the region at the same time.

    Remember the dance and music I mentioned earlier? Check out the photo below.

    We’ll try to get a full video coverage for you to watch it as well. This performance was just before the Nokia team unveiled their new Nokia 110 and Nokia 112.

    These new devices will be available in Pakistan and soon after into rest of the world, starting from the end of May. Prices of these new Nokia phones were one of them ain concerns by the attendees there. Nokia 110 is priced at Rs. 3800 and Nokia 112 will be available for Rs. 4000. Very affordable, isn’t it?

    Nokia is continuously working on making the value rich features affordable to all price points â€" Nokia 110 and Nokia 112 are great examples of how even the entry-level Nokia devices don’t just offer optimized and affordable internet but at the same time flaunt a stylish design that will cater to a variety of lifestyles.

    These devices will prove to be a true enabler in providing the people of Pakistan and the consumers from other growing economies with their first internet experience on mobile phone. Having internet on mobile phone opens up doors for new opportunities for the masses and helps them follow their dreams.

    Now, we expect Nokia to make a bigger global launch announcement from Pakistan next time!



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    PTA Asked to Hammer All Night Packages

    PTA Asked to Hammer All Night Packages

    By Aamir Attaa · Friday, Nov 2, 2012 0 Comments

    Staire PTA Asked to Hammer All Night PackagesA Senate’s Standing Committee on Cabinet Division has asked Pakistan Telecommunication Authority to stop all night packages, offered by cellular companies for cheap hourly calls (usually at Rs. 1-3 per hour) or even free calls at a fixed nominal daily charge.

    Cellular companies confirmed ProPakistani that they haven’t received any such directive from authority yet.

    This is not the first time that voice against night-packages has been raised. Earlier, Punjab and KPK Provincial assemblies passed resolution for the ban of night packages, but nothing could stop cellular companies with their night-calls offerings.

    It is unclear so far that when PTA will issue the directive to cellular companies for withdrawal of night packages. Even if ordered, we aren’t sure that cellular companies will refrain from night packages â€" just like they are continuing with Prize/Inami schemes even after directive that asked operators to stop all kind of Prize/Inami schemes.

    Night Packages are argued to be spoiling the youth. Surveys have been conducted to back this argument. Night packages are alleged to be responsible for bad health and poor academic performance of the youth.

    In a Poll Conducted by ProPakistani (back in 2010), 70 percent of respondents voted for the closure of night packages.


    Related Stories
    • PTA Directs Telecom Operators to Immediately Stop Prize / Inami Schemes
    • Ban Night Packages, Right Now: Punjab Assembly
    • Blackberry Services Go Offline in Pakistan
    • Least Concerned about Punjab Assembly’s Verdict
    • Breaking: Mobile Services to Remain Blocked in 15 Cities Today
    • Telcos Demand for Damages Against Service Suspension Orders
    • No Blackberry Services for Foreign Missions: PTA Says Service Continues


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