Try to imagine maneuvering a computer without the trusty QWERTY keyboard (could also be AZERTY or whatever else you’re using). Hard, isn’t it? Perhaps the future might have some new innovation in store but for now, it’s unfathomable to live without a computer keyboard. Physical and on-screen, this underrated human interface device (HID) has literally pivoted computing into the astral plane.
Unfortunately, despite the clear benefits of having a great keyboard which you’ll furiously be tapping away at every time you power on a computer, many people don’t think to invest in getting the very best.
Sure, you still have that cheap keyboard that came with the computer. But is it worth getting arthritis for? After all, we are increasingly spending most of our lives glued to our computer screens. I think not.
Types of computer keyboards on the market today comprise the original wired keyboard and the Wireless keyboards. The latter do away with the wires and come in two flavors: Bluetooth and RF (WiFi). Both types come with their pros and cons as we are about to find out.
Wireless Keyboard vs Wired USB Keyboard
Amazon Basics Wired Computer Keyboard
These two types of computer keyboards actually go neck and neck when pitted against each other. Each has its own unique attributes which endear users. Wired USB keyboards are everywhere, so much so that we don’t give them much thought. We just use them by default, the same way we use 5400 RPM hard drives that ship with our computers as it’s what’s there already. Below are some of the reasons they differ:
Clutter/Mobility [1-0] : The most obvious relief you get once you cut the umbilical cord attaching your wired keyboard to your computer is a clutter-free workspace. Say bye-bye to entanglements exacerbated by even more wires for those who also own wired mice. An added bonus is the extra reach a wireless keyboard has on its wired cousin. Mobility means that you don’t always have to be within striking distance of your PC to get any work done.
USB ports [2-0]: Save the case of built-in keyboards on laptops, a wired keyboard decommissions at least one USB port at all times. The addition of a wired mouse will take that two USB ports gone before you even get started. This doesn’t leave much room for plugging in other peripherals you might require in your line of work. A wireless Bluetooth keyboard wallops its wireless RF cousin along with the wired USB variant hands down.
Related: Choosing the best Computer Mouse: Wireless (RF vs Bluetooth) vs Wired USB Mouse
Lag/Latency [3-1]: You’ll soon get acquainted with by-words such as lag and latency if you frequent gamer forums. These two are a big deal where split-second reactions are a matter of life and death (or one of many lives). In this round, we’ll call a tie with the wired USB keyboard. Cheaper wireless keyboards are often not up to scratch when it comes to latency and lag. Many commentators in forums though are often feeding on old expired info-dumps, but sorry to break it to you, the new-age wireless keyboards, for the most part, have no noticeable lag, as far as we can tell. Technology has come a long way and this is one aspect it has shone a glorious light. For this reason, each gets a point. Hurrah!
Interference [3-2]: Most wireless RF keyboards use a radio frequency of 2.4GHz same as wireless mice and other various devices. At some point, there’s bound to be some interference. The same thing applies to Bluetooth keyboards. While a rarity, it can’t be ignored when it does happen. A wired keyboard faces no such limitation. This once-in-a-blue-moon interference shouldn’t be an issue for regular wireless keyboard users. But to a gamer, that’s second after second of eternal agony.
Power Usage/Batteries [3-3]: Any wireless device requires a power source as we very well know. This can be in the form of rechargeable/non-rechargeable batteries. A simple act such as recharging a wireless keyboard can become a chore especially if you’re as forgetful as I am. As for non-rechargeable batteries, those are just darn annoying. What’s to stop me from going mental and hurling the offending wireless board when it runs out of batteries when I need it most? At this point, wired keyboards don’t even need to up their game to properly woo me back.
Cost/Price [4-4]: Wired keyboards are dirt cheap, same as wired computer mice. After all, computer manufacturers have to draw a line somewhere and they do depend on you using their devices. However, wireless keyboards are fast catching up, so the prices won’t be much different for entry-level keyboards. However, as is the way of the world, quality improves greatly once you get device manufacturers to smile their way to the bank. Looking to get a good computer keyboard? Remit some money and whether wired or wireless and you’ll experience true artisanship.
RF vs Bluetooth Computer Keyboard
Adesso Tru-Form RF Computer Keyboard
RF which stands for Radio Frequency uses, well…you guessed it…radio frequencies to transmit information between an RF computer keyboard and the computer. And guess what? So does a Bluetooth keyboard. The only difference is that Bluetooth is a proprietary technology overseen by the SIG group. Let’s have a look at how they fare against each other:
Lag/Latency [1-0]: Fierce debates have raged in Keyboard and Mouse forums as to which technology is best suited for wireless devices. It appears that RF wireless keyboards have a slight edge when it comes to lag and latency. A Bluetooth keyboard takes a little while longer to connect to the PC on startup, might have some trouble waking up from sleep and remaining connected to the PC.
USB ports [1-1]: An RF wireless keyboard is no different from the wired variant in this regard. Both take up a USB port full time and in this case, with an RF receiver. Much as they get rid of clutter and enhance mobility, they still decommission one USB port for good.
Power Usage [2-1]: It’s a popular belief that as Bluetooth requires two-way communication, a Bluetooth keyboard has to stay ON for longer spells to maintain a connection. This consumes more battery power than its RF counterpart. Some cheaper Bluetooth keyboards might have trouble waking up from sleep or remaining paired with your computer. The newer Bluetooth 4 standard has upended this annoyance by introducing low emission designed for low energy and latency.
Interference [3-2]: Despite them being different technologies, both RF and Bluetooth keyboards use a radio frequency which enables them to connect to other devices. The 2.4GHz frequency is also what baby monitors, microwaves, name it uses. Why, you ask? Because it’s free! And yeah, at some point, somebody will step on another’s toes. On the whole, these devices play nice, but you might experience some interference at some point.
Sydney Mugerwa is a seasoned consumer tech writer based in Kampala, Uganda, with a passion for reviewing the latest gadgets and smart devices. From smartphones and wearables to smart home products and cameras, Sydney breaks down the complexities of consumer tech, making it easy to understand through detailed reviews and how-to guides. His mission is to simplify tech jargon and help readers make informed decisions in the ever-evolving world of technology.
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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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Sometime last year I wrote about the looming death of Microsoft’s most successful operating system. Today is Day 1 after the fact (yesterday 8 th April 2014 was Dooms Day). For a while, Microsoft has been screaming to all users of the legendary operating system to make the switch to Windows 7 and 8, even giving users tips on how to migrate. In my article, I highlighted why many enterprise users might turn a deaf ear to Microsoft’s advice.
As I write this 28% of all computers hooked to the internet are still happily powered by Windows XP. Many banks (including the ones I bank with), vending terminals and Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) have not heeded to the Dooms Day warning. I was hoping that today, the vending machine outside my office which I conveniently use to pay most of my bills would be spitting out cash and giving me free airtime but alas! Having followed this closely, this is what we expect is going to happen over the coming months:
Dear Microsoft, REF: Request for Extended Support I have been somewhat skeptical that Microsoft (knowing how good they are at minting money) will pull the plug just like that. Considering the cost and risks involved in system upgrades many enterprises will request Microsoft for extended support. Actually the governments of China, Netherlands and UK have already signed contracts worth millions for legacy support. It looks like XP might have second life after all.
What the heck, things still work fine here What would life be without laggards? Some people are not impressed by the band wagon and as such, will continue to happily use Windows XP. If we had wider internet coverage in Africa, I bet that 28% figure would be higher. There will definitely be many laggards for a while to come. Also, in the continuous bid to keep costs low, many CEOs and CFOs will still be reluctant to approve their IT departments’ proposals for the upgrade. After all, the systems still work right?
Migration to Windows 7 (and may be 8) This is the logical thing to do considering that XP will no longer be supported (for most users). Enterprises have been working around the clock to ensure that their operating systems are compliant. I was impressed to know that the forex rates display terminals in one of the banks I use were powered by Windows 7. As expected, we hope to see more enterprises especially those that run critical services like the banks deploying other operating systems.
It looks like Microsoft has had alternating degrees of success with its operating system releases, that is, Windows XP was good, and Vista was bad. Windows 7 was good and 8 was…
That said, the adoption rate for Windows 8 will not be as high as that of 7. Comparatively Windows 7 is enjoying 48% while Windows 8 and 8.1 is 6% and 5% respectively. It might take a while for users to adjust to the completely new design of Windows 8. Some users will probably never upgrade to Windows 8 considering how annoying they find it. Another death threat from Microsoft might do the trick although that won’t be happening any time soon.
The Open Source option Who needs an expensive operating system when you can get one for free? Over the years the Open Source boys have upped their game. Linux is no longer for just the geeks. The likes of Ubuntu and SUSE (not forgetting Android) now come with sleek windows systems and user friendly experiences that might give Mac and Windows a run for their money. Even with all these advancements, we don’t expect so many people to migrate to Linux. Save for the mobile space where Android is the run-away power house, there will still be more users migrating to Windows 7 (and maybe 8). One or two might migrate to Mac.
Hackers Day Out We expect that hackers will figure out how to exploit all those vulnerabilities that will be left behind now that there won’t be any more security patches for download. Users might now need two anti-viruses to protect their systems from crashing under the load! On the bright side, there might even be a black market site to get unofficial updates. This might be good business for the pirates.
A trip to the museum When all is said and done, the ultimate end will surely come. For now, I can’t say when that will be. Microsoft will finally archive XP and in its bid to give back to the community and also in the spirit of open source we should see some Windows XP repositories for download somewhere on the internet.
We expect XP to join MS-DOS 2.0 in the Computer History Museum where it will now belong to the ages . Windows XP has had an excellent run with a lot of success and although Microsoft has brought an end to it, the end has not yet come for many die-hards. The legend lives on.
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