Yesterday’s Apple event at the Flint Centre, Cupertino, CA was in Apple’s CEO Tim Cook’s words “an important day in Apple’s history”. Considering the fact that this location was where Steve Jobs introduced The Macintosh in 1984 and later the iMac in 1998. Both products changed the desktop computing landscape and it was no doubt Apple was up to something.
In an event that we live-streamed from here in Kampala, Apple made a bold statement by announcing two product and service categories in one day — wearables and mobile payments — that set the company in a new post-Steve Jobs era. Yesterday’s announcements show that Apple now sees itself as a fashion and financial player. Recode’s Walt Mossberg is qouted saying put it “Tim Cook’s Apple appears headed to some different street corners — the intersections of technology and fashion, and technology and banking.”.
The one thing that’s evident from yesterday’s event is that Apple is definitely playing catch-up — something that it has in previous years excelled at much to its advantage. The company has historically watched other players introduce new products to the market, learning from their mistakes before overrunning the market with their own products and services. Several vendors for instance have already introduced their smart watches months or years before Apple did yesterday and the same goes for the Phablet form-factor.
But will Apple’s new products re-invent the industry as it previously did? Lets see what Apple introduced yesterday;
Apple Watch
The “Apple Watch” and not the “iWatch” as we thought was perhaps the most anticipated product announcement yesterday. It has the potential to disrupt the watch market in a manner tha hasn’t been seen since the swiss army men’s watches rolled out. It marks the first product category from Apple since the iPad in 2010.
The Apple Watch comes with Infrared and visible-light LEDs, along with photosensors that detect your pulse rate. Apple Watch is built from custom alloys of stainless steel, aluminum, and 18-karat gold. Center to this iconic device is what Apple calls the Digital crown — “a versatile tool that answers the fundamental challenge of how to magnify content on a small display.”. With the Digital Crown, you can scroll through lists and messages, and make selections all without obstructing the screen.
A close-up to the digital crown
According to Apple’s senior designer Jonathan Ive, “The display also senses force, quite literally adding a new dimension to the user interface.”. The Apple watch will compete against early entrants such as the Pebble Smartwatch, Sony Smartwatch 2 SW2, Samsung Gear S, Samsung Gear Live, LG G Watch, Motorola’s Moto 360 and several others .
The device will host Leather, metal and plastic bands unfortunately it won’t be available until early next year for a cool $349.
Apple Pay
The second service category that industry watchers hope Apple will disrupt is mobile Payments.”If anyone has a chance to make wireless payments a Thing, it’s Apple. It’s persuading stores AND online companies to accept ApplePay.” — David Pogue a technology columnist for Yahoo Tech commented. According to Apple their vision is to replace the wallet and the starting point is payments.“We’ve placed a lot of energy into creating an entirely new payments solution.” Tim Cook said.
Apple Pay will enable users to pay with the simple touch of their finger using Touch ID on their iPhones. NFC technology on the new phones, a standard that Apple had notoriously avoided for years, the security of Touch ID, the privacy of the Secure Element and the convenience of Passbook app will power these mobile payments. “Apple Pay is easy, secure, and private” Eddy Cue Apple’s senior vice president of Internet Software and Services said about the new service.
“Credit and debit cards have exposed account numbers, outdated magstripes, and vulnerable security codes. ” Tim Cook said commenting on the decade-old payment systems that the company seeks to disrupt. With Apple Pay, when you add a card to Passbook, its number is never stored or shared on your device or Apple servers. Apple claims it doesn’t know what you bought, where you bought it, or how much you paid for it. Cashiers also won’t see your name, your card number, or your security code. Each transaction is authorized with a one-time unique number. As a security measure, If you lost your iPhone, you won’t have to cancel cards. Instead, you will simply use “Find My iPhone” feature to suspend payments just for that device.
Apple Pay will work with the three major payment networks: American Express, MasterCard, and Visa. The service is coming with iPhone 6, iPhone 6 Plus and the Apple Watch and will be available in the U.S. in October 2014 with 220,000 merchants but work is underway to take it worldwide in the near future. Of course we are skeptical of the possibility of such a service ever working in Africa where USSD-based mobile payments powered by the Telecoms are more versatile than alien credit cards.
iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 plus
Finally, Apple’s release of the iPhone 6 and the 6 plus is a clear indication that the device marker is playing catch-up with the rest of the industry. What’s immediately striking about the new devices is the increased screen sizes, 4.7 and 5.5 inches for the 6 and 6 plus respectively. This shows that Apple has finally bowed down to increased pressure from the likes of Samsung, HTC, LG, Microsoft that already have devices with those screen options.
iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 plus
Both iPhone 6 models feature a new Retina HD display with displays having the full sRGB wide color gamut. iPhone 6 Plus has a resolution of 1920 by 1080 with 401 pixels per inch which is full 1080p HD resolution. The iPhone 6 is merely 6.9 mm making it much thinner than its predecessor whereas the iPhone 6 Plus is just a smudge more at 7.1 mm.
The iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus are powered by the Apple-designed A8 chip. Apple claims the the A8 chip has up to 25% faster processing power and up to 50% faster graphics with performance supposedly 50 times faster than the original iPhone. Graphics are an incredible 84 times faster than the original iPhone, a spec that will enable users play games in higher resolution than next generation consoles according to Apple. The devices will also spot an M8 coprocessor that continuously measures motion data from the accelerometer, gyroscope, and compass and a barometer that senses air pressure to measure relative elevation.
iPhone 6 Camera Face recognition
iPhone 6 now supports Voice over LTE with over 200 LTE carriers around the world including all three in China. For the photo enthusiasts, the iPhone 6 has an 8MP iSight camera, 1.5µ pixels, ƒ/2.2 aperture and an all-new sensor. This will bring faster auto-focus, next-generation local tone mapping, slo-mo video at 120 fps or 240 fps. and advanced noise reduction according to Apple.
iPhone 6 starts at $199 with the 6 plus at $299 with a two-year contract in the US. iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus will be available September 19th in 9 countries including US, Canada, UK, France, Germany, Australia, Hong Kong, Singapore, Japan and more coming. If you live in Uganda, Orange Uganda will surely bring you the iPhone 6.
In other news: RIP iPod classic
The original iPod music player that debuted 13 years ago, in October 2001 will be silently phased out according to Cnet . When Apple’s online store came back online this afternoon at around 12:00 p.m. PT, the iPod classic — the company’s last touchscreen-less music player that first debuted in 2007 — was gone the Tech website reports. Users are increasingly using their iPhones as iPods and to stream music online instead of downloading and listening.
All Images: Apple
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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