Ever since its inception, Google has been obsessed with the idea of connecting more and more people to the Internet, especially in the developing world. Currently there’re just 1 billion people plugged into the internet which is only about 14% of the world’s population.
As such, the search engine has been toying with many ways to provide connectivity in areas that are un-connected, especially those in Africa. Obviously Google’s ambitious attempts aren’t at all philanthropic (as it would want us believe!), but are strategically aligned with the companies objectives of making the world’s information universally available as it makes money through display Ads.
The game is quite simple; the more eyeballs, the more money for Google.
Now, it’s no doubt that some of these attempts have turned out to be highly successful endeavors here in Africa. However, some are simply pipe-dreams.
Android: Powering smartphones for everyone
No doubt, the best thing that has ever happened to mobile technology. Android, an operating system based on the Linux kernel, and designed primarily for touchscreen mobile devices such as smartphones and tablet computers, was first unveiled in 2007 along with the founding of the Open Handset Alliance after being bought from Android Inc . Android today leads the tightly contended mobile operating system marketshare with the latest figures from Garner giving it 80% marketshare. Google disclosed during its Q2 report that Android device activations have hit 1.5 million per day with 1 Billion total devices on the horizon!
Smartphone stats Africa. Research by iHub
In Africa, already more than 350,000 of Huawei’s inexpensive $50 3G Android smartphones have been sold in Kenya alone bringing the total smartphone connections on the continent to about 60 Million which is only 6% of the African population. Vodafone, Samsung and Nokia all have devices that can justifiably be called smartphones available for significantly less than US$100 these days. Chinese brands like Huawei and ZTE and more recently Tecno , who predominately produce Android-based devices, meanwhile have driven down the cost of smartphones even further.
Arguably the mobile phone is and will still be the first internet access means for most people in Africa. The odds are that Android smartphone will be the device that ushers them to the web.
Project Loon: connecting rural, remote, and underserved areas using (surprise) Balloons
Project loon is the latest ideas coming from Google’s so-called moonshot project from Google[x]. The idea is to build a ring of balloons, flying around the globe on the stratospheric winds, that provides Internet access to the earth below. While the project is still in its very early days, Google has already built a system that uses balloons, carried by the wind at altitudes twice as high as commercial planes, to beam Internet access to the ground at speeds similar to today’s 3G networks or faster. As such, the search engine hopes that balloons could become an option for connecting rural, remote, and underserved areas, and for helping with communications after natural disasters.
Google’s aims to connect a billion or more people to the internet through this effort won’t be met without adverse challenges. Before 3G and soon 4G, the most prevalent means of connectivity used to be satellite which was met by finite bandwidth at extremely high cost, with aerial platforms constrained by their backhaul. Satellite providers like iWayAfrica where quickly replaced by cellular providers who now provide relatively the most affordable data rates to the mobile-connected masses.
Unless those balloons orbiting the earth deliver internet to mobile smartphones(the way that GPS works) instead of requiring some kind of customer premise equipment like a receiving dish/antenna, am afraid, project loon will turn out loony!
Project Ara: Bringing the the benefits of an open hardware ecosystem to 6 billion people
Motorolla, a division of Google just announced project Ara — an open hardware platform that will enable the masses to build their own phone with modular blocks. You can upgrade your phone’s screen from 720p to 1080p, for example, or increase your phone memory from 500MB to 1GB and you can also swap an old camera for a better one instead of buying a whole new phone In summary;
“Led by Motorola’s Advanced Technology and Projects group, Project Ara is developing a free, open hardware platform for creating highly modular smartphones. We want to do for hardware what the Android platform has done for software: create a vibrant third-party developer ecosystem, lower the barriers to entry, increase the pace of innovation, and substantially compress development timelines. Our goal is to drive a more thoughtful, expressive, and open relationship between users, developers, and their phones. To give you the power to decide what your phone does, how it looks, where and what it’s made of, how much it costs, and how long you’ll keep it.”. Advertisement - Continue reading below
Imagine what an open hardware platform backed by Google will do to the tinkering and developer community in Africa? Currently the prospects of delving into hardware for university students and startups are very slim albeit attempts by initiatives such as Gearbox . The Nairobi based initiative is geared towards bringing about a shift in the way techies work by nurturing a community of members working on projects in computer technology, industrial art, robotics and electronics. Hence, a project like Ara has the potential to make such communities in Africa bring low cost, custom developed — this time by Africans for Africa — modular smartphones to the masses.
Google has already made great headway from the first billion smartphone users. Now it has 6 billion more users to connect to the internet and therefore to Google apps and services! This earnest and industrious effort is even more formidable than its previous attempts and it’ll require such colossal inventiveness and ingenuity only akin to Google’s.
David Okwii is the Editor-in-Chief of Dignited.com and a seasoned tech enthusiast whose journey began in the early 2000s. He started blogging while at university, diving deep into mobile apps, smartphone reviews, and operating systems—from testing Linux distros to tweaking Windows machines. David also explores Chromebooks, experiments with Raspberry Pi projects, and brings hands-on curiosity to every review. With vast experience in Uganda’s tech ecosystem and deep knowledge of Africa’s startup landscape, he offers informed, grounded perspectives on consumer technology. When he’s not writing or tinkering, David enjoys connecting with nature and exploring the outdoors.
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Talkio Mobile , Uganda’s newest telecommunications service provider, is excited to announce a groundbreaking partnership with Banana Life Investments, a leading chain of mobile phone and retail shops. This strategic alliance aims to bring Talkio’s innovative telecom services closer to Ugandans.
This collaboration will leverage Banana Life Investments’ extensive retail network of 26 stores strategically located across Uganda in major malls, towns, and cities to provide customers with unparalleled convenience. Through this partnership, Talkio Mobile will offer its full suite of services, including SIM cards, airtime, and exclusive product offerings at any Banana Life Investment location.
This partnership is more than a business initiative—it’s a shared commitment to transforming lives. By integrating Talkio Mobile’s forward-thinking services & nationwide reach with Banana Life Investments’ retail footprint, the two brands are setting a new standard for customer convenience and inclusivity.
READ ALSO: 5 Things You Need to Know About Talkio Mobile: New Telecom Company in Uganda
“This partnership aligns perfectly with our mission of connecting Ugandans to innovative and transformative telecom solutions,” said Vianne Allan Ahura, CEO of Talkio Mobile. “By leveraging Banana Life Investments’ trusted presence and nationwide footprint, we are not only expanding our agent network but also bringing our services closer to the communities we serve. This collaboration ensures that our online customers can now enjoy a seamless offline experience right at their doorstep. Together, we are empowering Ugandans with the tools they need to stay connected, grow their businesses, and unlock new opportunities.”
Solomon Ssemuyaba, the assistant general manager at Banana Life Investments, echoed this sentiment: “We are proud to join hands with Talkio Mobile to deliver innovative, customer-centric solutions. This partnership represents our shared vision of fostering a connected future for Uganda. Together, we are redefining what convenience and accessibility mean for our customers.”
The partnership goes beyond retail distribution, introducing joint initiatives aimed at value addition and personalized service. Customers can expect seamless access to:
- SIM Card Sales : Available at all Banana Life Investments locations.
- Talkio phone number bookings : Book your preferred Talkio number at any Banana Life Investments location.
- Airtime Services : Recharge easily through in-store purchases.
- Customer Support : Friendly and knowledgeable staff trained to assist with Talkio Mobile products and services.
Additionally, the two companies plan to launch promotional campaigns and expand services to even more locations, ensuring no Ugandan is left behind in the digital transformation.
Solomon Obwot is a tech writer based in Kampala, Uganda, with extensive experience in the local tech startup ecosystem. He covers the latest news and analysis on consumer tech, writes in-depth smartphone reviews, and conducts insightful interviews with industry experts. Solomon is also a passionate podcaster, sharing his knowledge and engaging in discussions about Africa’s rapidly growing tech landscape. Send emails to [email protected]
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The Mobile World Congress (MWC) Barcelona , the world’s largest exhibition for the mobile industry, has just concluded. This annual event gathers leading technology brands to unveil groundbreaking mobile, AI, and digital solutions innovations. At MWC 2025, TECNO showcased a range of AI-driven products, reinforcing its commitment to cutting-edge technology.
The key launches included:
- CAMON 40 Series – AI-powered smartphones with One-Tap FlashSnap and advanced mobile imaging features.
- MEGABOOK S14 – The world’s lightest 14-inch OLED laptop, featuring AI-enhanced multitasking and Snapdragon® X Elite.
- MEGABOOK T14 Air & K15S – Lightweight ultrabooks with AI capabilities and extended battery life.
- TECNO AI Glasses Series – Smart eyewear integrating AI imaging, translation, and AR display.
Jan Stryjak, Associate Director at Counterpoint Research, shared, “In the past year, we have observed significant advancements in the field of AI. AI will continue to drive transformative changes in our daily lives. In this critical period for the economic development of emerging markets, TECNO’s AI technologies are unlocking potential for diverse needs.”
“The application of AI technologies is crucial and urgent in emerging markets. We’re committed to bridging the digital gap between emerging and mature markets,” said TECNO CMO, Laury Bai. “TECNO is taking a practical approach to make AI more accessible, ensuring users in emerging markets can access AI and cutting-edge technologies.”
Laury Bai, TECNO CMO
Driven by its commitment, TECNO has forged a robust partnership with MediaTek, establishing a joint AI laboratory dedicated to accelerating advancements in AI. At the event, James Chen, Vice President of Product and Technology Marketing at MediaTek, emphasized, “The synergistic R&D efforts between TECNO and MediaTek are set to democratize AI technology. Our collaboration powers a seamless, interconnected AI experience, bringing users a future of truly connected intelligence.”
James Chen, Vice President, Product and Technology Marketing at MediaTek
CAMON 40 Series Powered by AI One-Tap FlashSnap Revolutionizes Smartphone Snapshot Photography
TECNO’s Global Product Launch Officer, Olivier Mas, officially unveiled TECNO’s next-generation AI-driven products. Attendees at TECNO’s launch event witnessed the highly anticipated debut of TECNO’s new CAMON 40 Series, a device that embodies TECNO’s legacy of excellence in mobile imaging. Featuring One-Tap FlashSnap Mode and TECNO AI, the series sets a new benchmark in smartphone photography, delivering exceptional snapshot capabilities and AI-enhanced user experiences.
Olivier Mas, TECNO Global Product Launch Officer
The CAMON 40 Series exemplifies a commitment to innovation that transcends hardware and software, extending into strategic partnerships that deliver cutting-edge AI solutions to emerging markets. Matt Waldbusser, Managing Director of Global Solutions and Consumer AI at Google Cloud, remarked, “Our collaboration with TECNO on the CAMON 40 Series is a standout example. Leveraging Google Cloud’s capabilities, we’ve introduced groundbreaking features such as Ask Ella, AI Image Generator, AI Writing, and AI Translate. I am particularly impressed by the industry-leading and competitive edge of some of these innovations. For instance, TECNO’s AI supports text translation in 136 languages, voice translation in 44 languages, and photo translation in 51 languages. We are excited to further strengthen our partnership with TECNO, unlocking limitless potential to bring advanced yet practical AI capabilities to emerging markets in a convenient and secure manner.”
Matt Waldbusser, Managing Director of Global Solutions and Consumer AI at Google Cloud
The CAMON 40 Series’ innovative One-Tap FlashSnap leverages AI to enhance imaging capabilities, revolutionizing mobile photography. AI optimizes camera startup and continuous shooting for instant captures, while AI-powered multi-frame processing intelligently reduces noise and enhances details, delivering sharper, more refined images. Additionally, the BestMoment algorithm analyzes motion patterns, automatically selecting the optimal frames for precise, high-quality shots in dynamic scenarios, ensuring users an unparalleled mobile imaging experience.
TECNO CAMON 40 Demonstrates the Cutting-Edge FlashSnap Capability
To delve deeper into the imaging prowess of the CAMON 40 Series, TECNO invited Frédéric Guichard, CEO of DXOMARK, to share the image performance of CAMON 40 Pro. Frédéric highlighted, “The CAMON 40 Pro 5G has demonstrated exceptional imaging and performance capabilities in our rigorous evaluations. We’ve been particularly impressed with photo performance being the best for devices under 600$, and the 1st eligible device to our Smart Choice Label.”
Onsite photo of Frédéric Guichard, CEO of DXOMARK
Beyond its advanced rapid-capture functionality, the integration of TECNO AI further enhances the device’s capabilities. Intelligent imaging, a 360° AI Call Assistant, and productivity tools elevate creativity and efficiency. Powered by MediaTek’s latest chipsets, the series ensures smooth performance, fast processing, and extended battery life. With a sleek, durable, and water-resistant design, it seamlessly blends style with practicality for modern users.
MEGABOOK S14, the World’s Lightest 14-inch OLED Laptop, Inspires Creators and Game Lovers
The MEGABOOK S14 is TECNO’s first OLED laptop and the industry’s lightest 14-inch OLED laptop, featuring a 2.8K OLED display and incredibly weighing only 899g (31.7oz). The laptop is equipped with the outstanding power of the Snapdragon® X Elite compute platform, the flagship chipset for AI PCs from Qualcomm Technologies, and integrates TECNO’s world’s first self-developed edge-side large-scale AI model, to achieve AI-enhanced multitasking.
World’s Lightest 14-inch Laptop MEGABOOK S14
Specifically designed for next-gen AI productivity, TECNO AI enhances the Ella AI Assistant, AI-powered PPT generation, AI-driven image search, smart albums, and offline meeting transcription with multilingual support. The External Graphics Dock, equipped with a powerful NVIDIA graphic card, delivers scalable, high-performance capabilities for design, gaming, and content creation. The laptop’s 2.8K OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate ensures exceptional visuals, while DTS:X Ultra dual 2W speakers, Wi-Fi 6E, fingerprint login, and PC Manager optimize connectivity and user experience.
TECNO’s strategic partnership with Qualcomm Technologies was a highlight of the TECNO AI Ecosystem Product Launch event, demonstrating a shared vision for the future of AI PCs. Kedar Kondap, SVP & GM of Compute and Gaming at Qualcomm, took the stage to discuss the integration of Qualcomm’s cutting-edge PC chipset into the new MEGABOOK S14 laptop, underscoring TECNO’s commitment to delivering high-performance computing solutions.
Kedar Kondap, SVP & GM of Compute and Gaming at Qualcomm
In addition, TECNO also introduced several standout new products. The featherlight 999g (35.2oz) ultrabook MEGABOOK T14 Air, features high-speed storage and LPDDR5 memory, while the ultra-thin, all-metal MEGABOOK K15S, equipped with a powerful 70Wh battery and supported by a 65W PD GaN charger, offers a smarter and more long-lasting user experience. Both devices are empowered by TECNO AI with advanced AI capabilities such as AI Album and AI Voice Assistant, making them perfect companions for all aspects of life.
The Next Game-Changing Tech Innovation: See the World with the TECNO AI Glasses Series
TECNO’s new AI Glasses Series also took center stage with the introduction of TECNO AI Glasses Pro and TECNO AI Glasses, reimagining eyewear with cutting-edge imaging, intelligent interactions, and a sleek aesthetic. The TECNO AI Glasses feature an aviator design, while the Pro model showcases a browline style, both embodying timeless elegance and modern fashion.
TECNO AI Glasses Redefine the Way People See the Future
Equipped with a 50MP high-definition camera, the series integrates an OV50D sensor, a 100° ultra-wide-angle custom lens, and an AI ISP imaging chip, forming a mobile-grade imaging system. This system lets users capture stunning, high-resolution photos with advanced AI noise reduction and HDR capabilities. With real-time translation supporting over 100 languages, TECNO AI’s Ella empowers accurate translation even for less common languages, as well as voice control, AI-powered object recognition, and intelligent information summaries for ultimate convenience.
Additionally, the AI Glasses Pro features a MicroLED display with 7th-gen resin waveguide technology, offering a 30° field of view, over 1,500 nits of brightness AR display, and a lightweight, ultra-thin design. The AR display allows users to effortlessly enjoy features like translation display, navigation, information prompts, and teleprompting.
Equipped with a 250mAh battery, these glasses offer over 11 hours of music playback and 8 hours of mixed use with just 30 minutes of charging. An advanced ultra-linear speaker, bass enhancement, and spatial sound deliver an immersive audio experience, while Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.4 ensure seamless connectivity.
With these innovative launches, TECNO is setting new standards in mobile imaging and AI-enhanced technology, shaping a more connected and empowered future for consumers in emerging markets. Once again, TECNO has showcased its cutting-edge innovation on the global stage at MWC. With the brand essence of “Stop at Nothing”, TECNO’s relentless pursuit of innovation is making AI-powered technology more accessible, allowing consumers to experience the future ahead of time.
Solomon Obwot is a tech writer based in Kampala, Uganda, with extensive experience in the local tech startup ecosystem. He covers the latest news and analysis on consumer tech, writes in-depth smartphone reviews, and conducts insightful interviews with industry experts. Solomon is also a passionate podcaster, sharing his knowledge and engaging in discussions about Africa’s rapidly growing tech landscape. Send emails to [email protected]
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How to Use GPT-4 Turbo for Free
Today,7th May 2013, marks the end of the preliminary entries for the $100,000 prize money for working on the “grand challenge” to find fresh condom concepts funded by the Gates foundation project.
In pursuit to make the world a better place, Microsoft founder, Bill Gates and wife Melinda Gates — under Gates Foundation — want to hear from material scientists, product designers, and sex experts interested in making prophylactics more “user-friendly.’’ According to STDAware.com , the major issue here is to curb the alarming rates of HIV spread and regulate population explosion through better and safer intercourse practices.In this way, some of the Millennium Development Goals will be achieved.
Today, there are about 750 million men worldwide consuming 15 billion condoms annually.However,the intended use for these condoms has not yielded encouraging positive results.On the other hand, there has not been much success in the adoption of the female condom.
When I crunched through the web for some amazing futuristic condoms or condom ideas;I landed on another ridiculous Apple patent,the iCondom — going for an outrageous $399 per pack — Apple claims to have spent 4 years creating the most perfect condoms on the Planet. The most perfect packing created by the best designers.
The special patented formula of latex which we use for creation of our condoms and the most advanced technical decisions have allowed to create to us a product which opens a new era in history of safe sex. – Apple.
However,this would be contrary to the whole campaign of creation of cheap condoms to be widely distributed especially in impoverished and resource deprived areas such as Africa and Asia. Also, researchers at the University of Washington are working on a very fine electrically spun fabric made of nanometer-sized polymer strands that dissolve to release sperm-blocking and anti-HIV drugs. And, Origami, a company in California, is developing a silicone injection-molded condom that it says is easier to put on, and more pleasurable to use. Well, the aforementioned may seem encouraging but in perspective, these are what I believe should be or should have been considered by any condom entry, research or subsequent concepts:
The Power of Influencers
Any day, anywhere in the world, the power of influencers comes in handy.An endorsement by an influencer for a condom product in tandem clear demonstration about proper usage and practices would be a game changer.The distribution channel used would also matter,since the campaign is geared at convincing as many young adults as possible, entertainment would be the ideal distribution channel.An example of the power of influencers is in the tweet below.
Michael Jordan needs to start making condoms. So these niggas will actually start wearing them… Advertisement - Continue reading below — Grandad Freeman (@GrandadJFreeman) May 5, 2013
The permanent condom
Many would literally sacrifice a lot to have this gem on.Unfortunately,in 2007, many men in Lesotho fell for this – they thought that circumcision (which has existed since medieval times) was the new permanent condom. Cutting the rate of HIV spread up to 60% seemed too good to be real until when a recent research showed that it actually cuts down by a paltry 1%.Much as the idea of a permanent condom is a mirage for now, this should act as an eye-opener to any condom innovator to simplify their product as much as possible.
Developed once, deployed world over
The outcry about differences in size of penises amongst different men in different continents leaves some rather frustrated about their intercourse experiences.It’s common to hear Africans complain how small male condoms are, yet Asians complain of how big they are.Whoever will fill this disparity, will get crowned a game changer.
Asia may need such a condom concept.
In hindsight,the desire for better sexual experiences wins.In creating condoms that spearhead this;STDs, unwanted pregnancies amongst other sexual related discrepancies will greatly be mitigated.
That is why Bill Gates centred his interest to the geeks as the main innovators,it is way beyond the techies,it’s all about the people and making the world a better place.
Editor’s note: The above post may contain inappropriate language.
Daniel Mwesigwa is a curious mind at the intersection of technology, media, and politics. Passionate about emerging trends and critical thinking, he’s known for cutting through noise—calling out conspiracy theories when they don’t hold up. When he’s not writing or analyzing the digital world, Daniel enjoys listening to music and playing soccer.
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