Every year, a lot of tech events take place around the world… and no doubts, the Google I/O is one of the biggest. The 2019 Edition of the event came to an end yesterday (May 9) at the Shoreline Amphitheatre in California. To that end, we bring to you some of the biggest (software and hardware) announcements that were made at the event.
Sit tight and read on. In no particular order…
1. Pixel 3a and Pixel 3a XL
As you know, Google isn’t only popular for its search engine, apps and all other software it operates. The company also dabbles into hardware and as you’d expect —given the resources at its disposal— makes the best of them.
The Pixel 3a and Pixel 3a XL were one of the most-anticipated announcement at the event. Google didn’t disappoint as it took the wraps off the next Pixel phones that people can get for an incredibly low price — compared to what the standard Pixel phones cost.
The new Pixel 3a series starts at $399 and is available for purchase worldwide. You can check out the full features of the Pixel 3a and Pixel 3a XL . Additionally, you should also check out the differences between the new Pixel 3a and the standard Pixel 3 smartphone.
2. Nest Hub Max
At the 2019 I/O, Google also announced the new Nest Hub Max, a 10-inch smart display with a smart speaker and wide-angle security camera which will be joining other Google Smart home products — Google Home, Home Mini, and Max. The Nest Hub Max was announced with features like improved vocal control (you can now simply say “ Stop ” to silence your alarm), a smart hand gesture feature that allows you stop music play by raising your hand in front of the device, smart facial recognition feature and more.
Google also announced that its Home line of products would, henceforward, be branded under the Nest umbrella. The Google Nest Hub Max is available for $229.
That’s about it concerning hardware at the Google I/O. The chunk of the event was majorly about software announcements… and we talk about the top ones below.
3. Android Q / Android 10
The full features of the 10th-generation of the Android operating system were announced at the Google I/O 2019. System-wide Dark mode, AI-assisted notification Smart Replies, Improved security, and privacy features, etc. are some highlight features of the Android Q. You can check out more features HERE .
In the same vein, Google announced that only 21 smartphones from brands such as Nokia, OnePlus, Tecno Mobile would be getting the Android Q Beta 3 update first.
4. Google Search: 3D AR View, Incognito Mode, and more
Google also took to stage at the I/O 2019 to announce that it will be incorporating Augmented Reality (AR) into Search soon. When you search for stuff on Google, the scene viewer will use AR to bring you a 3D model of your search result which you can interact within your environment.
ARe you seeing this?! With new AR features in Search rolling out later this month, you can place, view and interact with 3D objects right in your own space. #io19 pic.twitter.com/Q61U0r2Hvg — Google (@Google) May 7, 2019
Google also announced plans to index podcast on its search engine in the future. When it arrives in Search, users will be able to search for podcast contents by title, episodes and more. There’s more: you’ll be able to listen to podcast episodes in search results.
5. Google Maps: AR Walking mode, Incognito mode
Like Google Search, Maps would also be getting an Incognito mode. When you turn on Incognito mode in Maps, places you search for and get directions to will not be saved to your Google Account. Additionally, Google will be incorporated AR into Maps as well.
Google Maps meets AR. Rolling out to Pixel phones, starting today. #io19 pic.twitter.com/rDBxvbZyF8 Advertisement - Continue reading below — Google Maps (@googlemaps) May 7, 2019
Currently available on Pixel phones only, users will now be guided in real time to their destination by an AR Walking mode.
6. Smaller but Faster Google Assistant
Google’s CEO, Sundar Pichai took to the stage at the Shoreline Amphitheater to announce that the company was able to shrink the size of the AI package that powers the Assistant. Thereof, it will be much faster in understanding queries and subsequently respond to them quicker than before. He also revealed that the next-gen Google Assistant will only take up half a gigabyte on Android devices.
Additionally, Assistant would be getting a Driving Mode and would also be able to work with third-party apps.
7. Advanced Google Lens
Launching first in Google Go, our Search app for first-time smartphone users, we’re working to help people who struggle with reading by giving Google Lens the ability to read text out loud. #io19 pic.twitter.com/YMVbZa5XMQ — Google (@Google) May 7, 2019
Like the Assistant, the Google Lens is also now faster and way smarter. With Google’s new update to the Lens, foreign languages can now be translated and read aloud in real-time. The new update will also show translated text directly above the original text.
8. Live Caption
Coming later this year as a built-in feature of the Android Q operating system, Live Caption will transcribe any video you’re watching on your smartphone… without internet connection! How amazing.
If it has audio, now it can have captions. Live Caption automatically captions media playing on your phone. Videos, podcasts and audio messages, across any app—even stuff you record yourself. #io19 pic.twitter.com/XAW3Ii4xxy — Google (@Google) May 7, 2019
While watching a video on your smartphone, click the volume rockers and select the Live Caption icon in the volume rocker menu. The Live caption feature works across all apps and will efficiently transcribe any video you’re watching, even videos that have never been manually close-captioned.
Although Google says that the feature was primarily built for the deaf and people with hearing difficulties, Live Caption can also be utilized by anyone — use it while watching content in a quiet room, during a call, or video chat.
9. Focus Mode
Focus Mode is a new feature that will be coming to Android P and Android Q devices later this year. Focus Mode is more of an update to the “Wind Down” feature of the Android P’s Digital Wellbeing . What Focus Mode does is to allow users temporarily disable distracting apps by switching them off.
Time for a time out? With Focus Mode, you can get things done distraction free by selecting the apps you want to stay active and pausing everything else you don’t. #io19 pic.twitter.com/Pq74lnsUU3 — Google (@Google) May 7, 2019
So if you are at work, you can disable/pause all apps that aren’t work-related so you can focus at work.
10. Google Duplex
Google Duplex have also been updated beyond making calls on your behalf The new-gen Google Duplex now comes with web support and will be able to make car rental bookings, restaurant reservations, purchase movie tickets, and do some advance online auto-fill activities.
With the new Google Duplex, when you say something in the line of “ Hey Google, purchase a movie ticket from XXXX cinema, ” and Duplex will go to the cinema’s website and automatically fill out all the necessary information on your behalf. Google says Duplex will pull all the required information from your Gmail, Chrome, and Calendar app. The information it doesn’t have, Duplex will prompt you to fill them in manually.
Google says Duplex web support is coming to Android (in the UK and US) devices later this year. For iOS devices, no date was announced.
Which of the new Google I/O 2019 tech above are you most excited about?
Sodiq Olamide is a tech writer based in Nigeria, covering the latest reviews, how-tos, and news on consumer tech trends with a unique African perspective. Whether analyzing emerging technologies or offering practical guides, Sodiq brings a deep understanding of how technology shapes lives across the continent.
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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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