The government has appointed Dr Muhammad Mehedi Hasan, additional secretary of the Information and Technology Division, as the administrator of the Bangladesh Association of Software and Information Services (BASIS). An office order was issued in this regard by the Ministry of Commerce on Wednesday. Read: BASIS welcomes new members at induction, networking event Mehedi Hasan is tasked with organising a fair and impartial election within 120 days to form a new committee for BASIS. Upon completion of the election, the administrator will hand over responsibilities to the elected committee and report the transition to the ministry, said the office order.

Launched on October 25, 2024, the A16 5G is a new addition to the Samsung Galaxy A series which is famous for high performance with standard features. It aims to combine affordability and modern features, promising a balanced experience for budget-conscious users. Let’s take a look at the key specs, pros, cons, and price of the Samsung Galaxy A16 5G in Bangladesh. Key Features of Samsung Galaxy A16 5G . Design and Build Quality The Samsung Galaxy A16 5G combines a lightweight, slim design with a plastic back and frame, paired with a glass front. With 7.9mm thick and weighing 200g, it is comfortable to hold and pocket-friendly. The phone also features IP54 dust and splash resistance, offering some protection for everyday mishaps.  The colour options, including Blue Black and Light Gray, are sleek but lack the premium look of the Redmi Note 13, which has a Gorilla Glass build. Similarly, the vivo iQOO Z9’s thinner and light-weight profile and brushed finish give it a more premium feel compared to the A16. Read more: 9 Best Smartphones to Watch Out for in December 2024 Display Quality The 6.7-inch Super AMOLED display on the Galaxy A16 5G is one of its highlights, offering sharp visuals and vivid colours. With a 90Hz refresh rate, it ensures smooth scrolling and an enjoyable viewing experience for casual media consumption. However, similarly priced rivals like iQOO Z9 and Redmi Note 13 offer 120Hz refresh rate. The 800 nits maximum brightness is sufficient for outdoor use, though it is outshined by the vivo iQOO Z9’s HDR display with 1800 nit pearl brightness, making it a better option for users who prioritize screen quality. Similarly, the Redmi Note 13’s higher brightness (1000 nits) levels and sharper contract surpasses the A16 in overall clarity and vibrancy. Camera Performance The Galaxy A16 5G features a 50MP (f/1.8) main lens, 5MP (f/2.2) ultrawide, and 2MP (f/2.4) macro camera, producing decent daytime photos with good detail and natural colours. However, with visible noise and limited dynamic range, its low-light performance leaves room for improvement. The 13MP (f/2.0) front camera takes clear selfies. Both the front and rear sensors can capture a maximum of 1080-pixel footage at 30fps. However, the absence of advanced modes like 4K recording limits its appeal.  Read more: Honor X7c Review: A Budget-friendly Powerhouse for Everyday Use While the vivo iQOO Z9’s OIS-enabled 50MP camera with 4K video recording capacity and the Redmi Note 13 Pro’s 108 MP sensor deliver significantly better results, the A16’s setup remains sufficient for casual photography. The camera improvements over its predecessor, the Samsung Galaxy A15 5G, are minor, making the upgrades feel less impactful. Processor Performance Powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 6300 6nm, the Galaxy A16 ensures smooth performance for daily activities such as browsing, streaming, and multitasking. With 6GB/8GB RAM options, it can handle moderate workloads efficiently.  Compared with its predecessor A15, the A16 is slightly better in speed and efficiency but does not set a new standard in its category. A16 outperforms the Redmi Note 13 featuring MediaTek 6080 6nm chipset. However, A16 lags behind the vivo iQOO Z9. Equipped with the Dimensity 7200 4nm chipset, Z9 is more adept at resource-heavy tasks.  Read more: realme GT7 Pro Review: Speed, Style, and Gaming Excellence at a Competitive Price Gaming Performance Popular multiplayer games like PUBG Mobile and Call of Duty: Mobile run smoothly in medium settings. However, prolonged sessions may lead to heating and occasional frame drops, particularly in graphically intensive games like Genshin Impact.  In comparison, the Redmi Note 13 and vivo iQOO Z9 offer superior thermal management and smoother gameplay, making them better choices for gaming enthusiasts. Battery Life The 5000mAh battery ensures all-day performance for moderate users, handling tasks like browsing and video playback without issues. The 25W fast charging is convenient, allowing for quick top-ups, though it is slower than the 33W fast charging on the Redmi Note 13, which recharges its battery more quickly.  Read more: ZTE Blade A55 Review: Affordable Excellence with Modern Features The vivo iQOO Z9, with 44W charging, also competes well in this aspect. Despite these differences, the A16 remains a dependable option for users prioritizing battery life. Software and User Interface The Galaxy A16 runs on Android 14 with One UI 6.1, delivering a clean and user-friendly experience. Samsung’s promise of up to six major Android upgrades is a standout feature, ensuring the device stays updated for years.  While competitors like the Redmi Note 13 and vivo iQOO Z9 also run Android 14, their software support is less extensive, making Samsung a better choice for users seeking long-term usability. Read more: Walton NexG N74 Review: A Competitive Budget-friendly Smartphone Worth Considering Storage Options The Galaxy A16 offers 128GB or 256GB storage options paired with 4GB, 6GB, or 8GB RAM. It supports microSD expansion, a feature missing in many competitors. This flexibility makes the A16 a great option for users needing additional storage without upgrading to higher-priced models. However, with a maximum of 12GB RAM with 512 GB of internal storage, the Redmi Note 13 surmounts the A16 and Z9. Pros and Cons of Samsung Galaxy A16 5G . Pros - Vibrant Super AMOLED display.- Long-lasting battery with decent fast charging.- Clean UI and guaranteed software updates.- Expandable storage for added flexibility. Read more: vivo iQoo Neo9s Pro Review: The Mid-Range Gaming Powerhouse You’ve Been Waiting For? Cons - Average camera performance in low-light settings.- Gaming performance lags behind competitors.- Plastic build feels less premium. Price of Samsung Galaxy A16 5G The Samsung Galaxy A16 5G is unofficially available at around 26,500 Tk in Bangladesh. However, the official price may vary due to tax and other issues. Verdict The A16 is a competent smartphone in the budget-friendly to early midrange segment. It can be a standard choice for budget-conscious users seeking a reliable smartphone with long battery life, expandable storage, and future-proof software updates. It’s ideal for casual users who prioritize practicality over premium features. However, it may not suit gamers or photography enthusiasts who need better performance, advanced camera capabilities, or a high-refresh-rate display. Overall, the Samsung Galaxy A16 5G strikes a solid balance between affordability and functionality. Read more: Tecno Spark 30 Pro Review: Power-packed Performance at a Budget-friendly Price

U.S. federal authorities have called on telecommunications companies to strengthen network defenses following a widespread hacking campaign by Chinese operatives that compromised the private communications of an unspecified number of Americans. The FBI and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) issued guidance on Tuesday to help identify and block the hackers, aiming to prevent future cyberespionage. Officials, however, admitted they are still uncertain about the full extent of the breach or whether Chinese hackers retain access to U.S. networks. Highlighting the global impact of the operation, the U.S. collaborated with security agencies from New Zealand, Australia, and Canada—members of the Five Eyes intelligence alliance, which also includes the UK. The hacking campaign, referred to as Salt Typhoon, was uncovered earlier this year. Hackers targeted telecommunications networks to access metadata such as call and text logs, including timestamps and recipients. In fewer cases, they intercepted audio files and text content. Victims included government and political officials, and the FBI has reached out to this group. However, the responsibility of notifying affected customers from the larger pool rests with telecom companies. Despite months of investigations, the true scale of the breach remains unknown. Some of the data targeted by the hackers involved U.S. law enforcement investigations and court orders, potentially linked to programs under the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA). However, officials believe the hackers aimed for broader access to Americans' information by embedding themselves deeply into the nation's telecom systems. The FBI's recommendations for telecom companies include technical measures like encryption, network centralization, and continuous monitoring. If adopted, these steps could help disrupt ongoing operations like Salt Typhoon and strengthen defenses against similar future attacks, according to Jeff Greene, CISA's executive assistant director for cybersecurity. TikTok defends handling of Romania election content in grilling by EU lawmakers “We’re not under any illusion that these actors won’t try to return,” Greene said. China has been linked to several high-profile cyberattacks in recent months. In September, the FBI disrupted a Chinese operation that infected over 200,000 consumer devices with malware, creating a botnet capable of launching large-scale cybercrimes. In October, hackers associated with China targeted phones belonging to political figures, including then-presidential candidate Donald Trump and his running mate, JD Vance, as well as individuals tied to Democratic candidate Kamala Harris. China has denied the allegations, with a spokesperson for its embassy in Washington dismissing them as “disinformation.” The statement emphasized China’s opposition to all forms of cyberattacks and accused the U.S. of engaging in its own cyber operations against other nations.      

TikTok executives have revealed that the platform dismantled multiple networks attempting to interfere in Romania's elections. The disclosure came as company officials defended their election integrity measures before European Union lawmakers on Tuesday. The popular video-sharing app has faced scrutiny in Romania after far-right candidate Calin Georgescu, previously an obscure independent, unexpectedly emerged as the frontrunner in the election. His victory in the first round of voting has triggered political unrest, with allegations of electoral violations and Russian influence. Brie Pegum, TikTok’s global head of product, authenticity, and transparency, stated that the platform disrupted two networks targeting Romanian users just days after the first round of voting. One network, with 1,781 followers, supported Georgescu, while the other backed various candidates. Georgescu’s TikTok presence, boasting 527,000 followers and 5.8 million likes, has been a focal point of his campaign. Critics allege that his online popularity may have been artificially enhanced, with some officials suggesting TikTok provided him preferential treatment. Speakers demand recognising internet as fundamental right in Bangladesh This controversy underscores TikTok's growing role in shaping elections in Romania, a NATO and EU member bordering Ukraine. Caroline Greer, TikTok's top EU lobbyist, highlighted the platform’s localized efforts during the election, which included 95 Romanian language content moderators, collaborations with fact-checkers, and consultations with the country’s electoral authority. Despite these efforts, EU lawmakers expressed dissatisfaction, questioning the effectiveness of TikTok’s measures. Dutch Member of the European Parliament Dirk Gotink criticized the platform for allowing misinformation to spread unchecked before acting, likening their response to firefighting after significant damage. Bezos denies Musk’s claim on Tesla stock advice as rivals clash again According to a report by Romania’s Expert Forum, Georgescu’s TikTok account surged to 92.8 million views in recent months, with an additional 52 million views in the week leading up to the first-round vote. Another account sharing exclusively Georgescu-related content, which gained 1.7 million likes, was removed shortly after the polls closed. TikTok stated it has taken down over 150 accounts impersonating Georgescu and 650 similar accounts for other candidates. Georgescu will compete in a runoff against reformist Elena Lasconi from the Save Romania Union party this Sunday.

Apple is poised to make a landmark entry into the foldable smartphone market, with reports indicating that its first foldable iPhone could debut in the second half of 2026. The launch is expected to redefine industry standards, blending Apple’s renowned commitment to quality with the evolving demand for innovative foldable devices. Apple launches the iPhone into the AI era with free software update The foldable market has experienced a surge in popularity over the past few years, spearheaded by brands like Samsung, Huawei, and Motorola. Samsung’s Galaxy Z series has been particularly dominant, consistently raising the bar in terms of design, functionality, and durability. Yet, Apple’s arrival is anticipated to bring an unprecedented level of attention and competition to the segment. Known for its meticulous hardware and software integration, the Cupertino-based giant is likely to offer a seamless user experience that could appeal to both loyalists and curious consumers. Challenges in the Foldable Market Despite its growth, the foldable smartphone sector is currently facing headwinds. According to a report by DSCC, the market has recently witnessed its first year-on-year decline. Between 2019 and 2023, the foldable smartphone display market enjoyed consistent growth of at least 40% annually. However, projections for 2024 show a modest 5% rise, followed by an anticipated 4% decline in 2025. The report highlights a worrying stagnation in demand, with foldable smartphone display procurement declining by 38% year-on-year in Q3 of 2024. This downward trend is expected to persist in four out of the next five quarters. Apple’s upcoming iPhone SE 4 could redefine budget smartphones Amid these challenges, the forthcoming foldable iPhone has emerged as a beacon of hope for the market. Analysts believe Apple’s foray into foldables could reignite interest and potentially reverse the slowdown. What to Expect Industry insiders suggest that Apple’s foldable iPhone will feature cutting-edge technology, including a flexible OLED display capable of withstanding hundreds of thousands of folds. This innovation will likely be paired with a unique design that combines Apple’s existing iPhone aesthetics with advanced folding mechanisms. The device is expected to boast top-tier specifications, including a powerful chip, state-of-the-art cameras, and the sleek, premium build synonymous with Apple products. Furthermore, the foldable iPhone will operate on iOS, ensuring seamless integration with Apple’s ecosystem, including services such as iCloud, Apple Music, and Apple Pay. Potential Impact Apple’s entry into the foldable smartphone market could reshape the industry, not only by driving innovation but also by influencing consumer preferences. However, the timing raises questions about whether the market for foldables has already reached saturation. While Apple’s reputation for quality and innovation will undoubtedly attract attention, it remains uncertain whether its foldable iPhone can single-handedly alter the trajectory of the segment. If the market has peaked, other manufacturers may struggle to keep pace, leaving Apple as a potential outlier rather than a market saviour. The Road Ahead The launch of Apple’s first foldable iPhone is poised to be a pivotal moment for the company and the foldable market at large. Its success could revitalise the category, encouraging competitors to innovate further and consumers to embrace foldable devices more widely. As always, Apple’s approach to blending functionality with form is likely to be a major draw. However, whether it can overcome broader market challenges and drive sustained growth for foldables remains to be seen. Only time will tell if Apple’s bold leap into foldables marks a new chapter for the industry or merely a fleeting moment of innovation. Source: With inputs from wires

By June 2024, the user base of generative artificial intelligence (AI) products in China had grown to 230 million, demonstrating the country's broad adoption of AI-driven innovations across various sectors, according to a report released on December 1. China has developed a robust AI industry ecosystem, with over 4,500 companies involved in the sector, as outlined in a report from the China Internet Network Information Center (CNNIC). The generative AI industry in China is thriving, with the core sector valued at nearly 600 billion yuan (approximately 82.84 billion U.S. dollars). The ecosystem covers critical areas such as chips, algorithms, data, platforms, and applications. Australia imposes world’s first ban on social media for under-16 As of July 2024, more than 190 generative AI models were operational and available online, providing users with a wide array of options and personalized experiences. In July 2023, China introduced a set of provisional regulations for generative AI services, the first of its kind globally. Additionally, a key policy resolution adopted in July 2024 highlighted the country’s plans to enhance mechanisms for the development and management of generative AI.  

The smartphone market is gearing up for a thrilling December 2024, with a wave of innovative devices poised to hit the shelves. From groundbreaking features to sleek, futuristic designs, these upcoming releases promise to redefine mobile technology. Here’s a closer look at the best smartphones set to dominate the market as the year wraps up. 9 Most Hyped Smartphones Coming in December 2024  . OnePlus 13 The OnePlus 13, launching in December 2024 in China and expected to be released globally in early 2025, is a powerhouse smartphone. It features a stunning 6.82-inch LTPO AMOLED display with a 1440 by 3168 resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate, delivering vibrant visuals. Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset and up to 24GB of RAM, it promises lightning-fast performance.  The Hasselblad-enhanced 50MP triple camera setup ensures professional-grade photography. With up to 1TB UFS 4.0 storage and a massive 6000mAh battery supporting 100W wired charging, this device combines power and longevity. Its premium design includes IP68 water resistance and eco-leather back options.  Read more: Honor X7c Review: A Budget-friendly Powerhouse for Everyday Use Xiaomi 15 Series The Xiaomi 15 series is coming in late December 2024 in China. The Xiaomi 15 and 15 Pro are expected to be released globally in early 2025.  The Xiaomi 15 Pro boasts a 6.73-inch AMOLED display with high resolution and a buttery-smooth refresh rate for immersive visuals. Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite 3nm chipset, the device delivers top-tier performance for multitasking and gaming. The 50MP triple camera setup with AI capabilities, ensures exceptional photography and videography. With a 6100mAh battery, IP68 water resistance, and up to 1TB storage, it offers durability, power, and space, making it a top contender in flagship smartphones.  vivo iQOO 13  The vivo iQOO 13, set to release globally in the first week of December 2024, is a flagship smartphone blending innovation and performance. It features a stunning 2K display with vibrant colours and sharp details, perfect for gaming and multimedia. Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, it delivers 31% faster CPU speeds than its predecessor, ensuring top-notch multitasking and efficiency.  Read more: realme GT7 Pro Review: Speed, Style, and Gaming Excellence at a Competitive Price The phone introduces an eye-catching “Energy Halo” LED design around its camera module, enhancing its aesthetic. With a 6000mAh battery and 120W fast charging, the iQOO 13 aims to ensure extended use and quick power-ups. Offering up to 1TB storage, the iQOO 13 can be a compelling choice for premium smartphone enthusiasts. Xiaomi Redmi Note 14  The Xiaomi Redmi Note 14 is launching globally on December 9, 2024. Redmi Note 14 sports a 6.67-inch OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, Dolby Vision, and HDR10+, offering brilliant visuals and 3,000 nits peak brightness.  Powered by the Dimensity 7025 6nm chipset, it ensures smooth performance for gaming and multitasking. The phone’s 6000mAh battery supports 90W fast charging, providing extended usage and minimal downtime. With an IP64 rating, it offers excellent durability against dust and water. Available with up to 12 GB RAM, the Redmi Note 14 delivers premium features at an affordable price, making it a standout choice. realme GT Neo 7 The realme GT Neo 7, scheduled for launch on the 2nd week of December 2024, offers a stellar blend of performance and power. Featuring a massive 7000mAh battery, it ensures extended usage, perfect for gaming and productivity. It is rumoured to bear a MediaTek Dimensity 9300 Plus or Snapdragon 8 3rd Gen chipset for seamless multitasking and blazing speeds.  Read more: ZTE Blade A55 Review: Affordable Excellence with Modern Features The around 6.78-inch AMOLED display with a high refresh rate of 144 Hz aims to provide vibrant visuals and smooth interactions. Equipped with a triple-camera setup, it captures stunning photos and videos. With up to 8 GB storage and realme’s focus on affordability, the GT Neo 7 promises premium features at competitive pricing, appealing to gaming-centric smartphone buyers.  ROG Phone 9 Series The ROG Phone 9 series, set to launch in December 2024, is a gaming powerhouse tailored for enthusiasts. Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite 3nm chipset, the ROG Phone 9 and 9 Pro deliver unmatched performance for demanding games and multitasking. The 6.78-inch AMOLED display with a 165Hz refresh rate ensures smooth, immersive visuals of these phones.  A 5800mAh battery supports extended gaming sessions in 9 and 9 Pro, while 65W fast charging minimizes downtime. The standout rear dynamic display offers real-time game alerts and customizable visuals, enhancing user interaction.  Featuring a 50MP triple-camera system, up to 1TB storage, and a gamer-centric design, the ROG Phone 9 Pro can be the ultimate choice for mobile gaming aficionados.  Read more: Walton NexG N74 Review: A Competitive Budget-friendly Smartphone Worth Considering Oppo Reno13 Series The Oppo Reno 13 series is an upcoming smartphone line that debuted in China on November 29th and expecting a global release in December.  Powered by the advanced Dimensity 8350 4nm chipset, the Reno 13 and 13 Pro ensure seamless multitasking, gaming, and efficient performance. Boasting a premium design, it features an IP68/69 rating for dust and water resistance, enhancing its durability.  The series is expected to offer an AMOLED display with vibrant visuals, ideal for streaming and gaming. Likely equipped with versatile cameras for high-quality photography, ample storage options, and fast charging support, the Reno 13 series aims to deliver style, performance, and value to consumers. Tecno Phantom V Flip2 The Tecno Phantom V Flip2 is a sleek, foldable smartphone offering a premium design with an eco-leather back, aluminium frame, and a durable steel hinge. It features a 6.9-inch LTPO AMOLED main display with a 120Hz refresh rate and a secondary 3.64-inch AMOLED cover display for added versatility.  Read more: vivo iQoo Neo9s Pro Review: The Mid-Range Gaming Powerhouse You’ve Been Waiting For? Powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 8020 6nm chipset and 8GB RAM, it delivers smooth multitasking and performance. The dual 50MP primary cameras with OIS and 32MP selfie cameras excel in photography, while its 256GB internal storage ensures ample space. A 4720mAh battery with 70W fast charging completes the package, making it a cutting-edge device.  Huawei Nova 13 Series The Huawei Nova 13 series, including the Nova 13 and Nova 13 Pro offers premium features and sleek designs.  The Nova 13 and 13 Pro include a 50MP triple-camera setup. These phones run on HarmonyOs 4.2 with a maximum of 1TB storage options. Both phones boast a maximum of 60 MP front camera setup which is certainly a trailblazing feature.  Read more: Tecno Spark 30 Pro Review: Power-packed Performance at a Budget-friendly Price Both models feature pill-shaped punch-hole displays and cutting-edge Huawei technologies, appealing to style-conscious users seeking high-performance devices.  Takeaways The most anticipated smartphones of this December cater to diverse user requirements ranging from high-end technology to reliable daily performance.   OnePlus 13 can be a competitive choice among smartphones with high-end displays. Those looking for a smartphone with a long lasting battery may consider the realme GT Neo 7. People who stay outdoors for long hours can check out the Xiaomi Redmi Note 14. For selfie lovers, the Huawei Nova 13 series will be a blessing. The flip phone enthusiasts should not miss the Tecno Phantom V Flip2. The gamers can check out the new features of the ROG Phone 9 series.  Read more: 8 Best Gaming Smartphones Released in 2024 So Far With impressive cameras, sleek designs, and powerful features, this list of new smartphones being released in December 2024 offers something for everyone. Pick the one that is most suitable for your needs.

A coalition of Canadian news publishers, including The Canadian Press, Torstar, Globe and Mail, Postmedia and CBC/Radio-Canada, has filed a lawsuit against OpenAI for using news content to train its ChatGPT generative artificial intelligence system. The outlets said in a joint statement on Friday that OpenAI regularly breaches copyright by scraping large amounts of content from Canadian media. “OpenAI is capitalizing and profiting from the use of this content, without getting permission or compensating content owners,” the statement said. The publishers argue that OpenAI practices undermine the hundreds of millions of dollars invested in journalism, and that content is protected by copyright. Teletalk launches trial online SIM service “News media companies welcome technological innovations. However, all participants must follow the law, and any use of intellectual property must be on fair terms,” the statement said. Generative AI can create text, images, videos and computer code based on a simple prompt, but the systems must first study vast amounts of existing content. OpenAI said in a statement that its models are trained on publicly available data. It said they are “grounded in fair use and related international copyright principles that are fair for creators and support innovation.” The company said it collaborates “closely with news publishers, including in the display, attribution and links to their content in ChatGPT search” and offers outlets “easy ways to opt-out should they so desire.” This is the first such case in Canada, though numerous lawsuits are underway in the United States, including a case by the New York Times against OpenAI and Microsoft. Some news organizations have chosen to collaborate rather than fight with OpenAI by signing deals to get compensated for sharing news content that can be used to train its AI systems. The Associated Press is among the news organizations that have made licensing deals over the past year with OpenAI. Others include The Wall Street Journal and New York Post publisher News Corp., The Atlantic, Axel Springer in Germany and Prisa Media in Spain, France’s Le Monde newspaper and the London-based Financial Times. Elon Musk's wealth hits all-time high Canada has passed a law requiring Google and Meta to compensate news publishers for the use of their content, but has previously declined to say whether the Online News Act should apply to use by AI systems. In response to that legislation, Meta pulled news from its platforms in Canada, while Google has reached a deal to pay $100 million Canadian (US$ 71 million) to Canadian news outlets.

As mobile games continue to push the boundaries of graphics and gameplay, the demand for high-performance smartphones has skyrocketed. In response, leading manufacturers have released cutting-edge gaming phones designed to deliver unparalleled speed, stunning visuals, and seamless gameplay. Here’s a look at the standout gaming smartphones of 2024 that are dominating the market with their impressive features and performance. 8 Most Powerful Gaming Smartphones Launched in 2024 . Asus ROG Phone 8 Pro Released on January 18, 2024, the Asus ROG Phone 8 Pro advances its lineage with a 6.78-inch LTPO AMOLED 165Hz display, outperforming its 2023 predecessor's 144Hz screen and matching rivals like the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra in brightness (2500 nits). Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 4nm chipset and equipped with up to 24GB RAM, it outpaces competitors in benchmarks but grapples with mild thermal throttling under extended loads. Its 5500mAh battery, with 65W charging, surpasses the longevity of the RedMagic 8 Pro. Read more: Best Gaming Laptops of 2024 So Far: Top Picks for Every Gamer Cameras improve with a 50MP gimbal OIS setup yet lag behind Samsung’s flagship in versatility. Gaming features like triggers and a Mini-LED matrix cement its lead among enthusiasts. The unofficial price of Asus ROG Phone 8 Pro’s 16/512 variant in Bangladesh is about 151,999 Tk. Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra Released on January 24, 2024, the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra boasts a 6.8-inch Dynamic LTPO AMOLED 2X display with a 1440p resolution and 120Hz refresh rate, offering superior brightness and color accuracy compared to the 2023 models. Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 and 12GB RAM, it excels in multitasking and gaming, outperforming its 2023 predecessor, the S23 Ultra, with smoother performance and better thermal management. Read more: Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 Review – A Thrilling Revival of the Undead Horde Its 5000mAh battery supports fast charging at 45W, ensuring a day’s use, similar to competitors like the iPhone 15 Pro Max and Google Pixel 8 Pro. The 200MP camera and 8K video are notable upgrades, elevating mobile photography. The official price of Galaxy S24 Ultra in Bangladesh is about  243999 Tk. OnePlus 12R The OnePlus 12R, released in February 2024, boasts a 6.78-inch LTPO4 AMOLED display with 120Hz and HDR10+ support, offering vibrant visuals that surpass its 2023 predecessors. Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset and up to 16GB RAM, it excels in performance, matching or exceeding competitors like the Samsung Galaxy A54 and Xiaomi 13T in gaming benchmarks, with no significant heat issues. The 5,500mAh battery supports 100W charging, providing rapid refills in just 26 minutes. Its 50MP triple camera setup delivers solid photos, but rivals like the Google Pixel 8 offer superior photography at similar prices. Read more: Asus TUF Gaming F15 Laptop Review: What Makes It Stand Out? OnePlus 12R’s 8/128 GB variant is priced at around 55,000 Tk in Bangladesh. ZTE Nubia Red Magic 9S Pro The ZTE Nubia Red Magic 9S Pro, launched on July 9, 2024, is a powerful gaming-centric smartphone. Sporting a 6.8-inch AMOLED display with 120Hz refresh rate and 1600 nits peak brightness, it delivers vivid visuals. However, its resolution (1116 x 2480 pixels) is slightly lower than competitors like the Xiaomi 14T Pro. Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 and Adreno 750 GPU, it offers top-tier performance, especially for gaming, with a built-in cooling fan to manage heat—a feature the Xiaomi 14T Pro lacks. The device packs 12GB to 16GB of RAM and UFS 4.0 storage options, ensuring smooth multitasking. The 6500mAh battery supports 80W wired charging, achieving a full charge in 35 minutes, surpassing the Xiaomi 14T Pro’s 120W charging speed. Its 50MP triple camera setup records in 8K and 4K, comparable to Xiaomi’s 50MP setup, while the 16MP under-display selfie camera offers a unique touch. Read more: PlayStation 5 Pro Review: Key Upgrades and Is It Worth the Price? ZTE Nubia Red Magic 9S Pro is priced at around 80,000 Tk in Bangladesh. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold6 The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold6, released on July 24, 2024, continues its foldable legacy with significant upgrades. Its 7.6-inch Foldable Dynamic LTPO AMOLED 2X display boasts a stunning 2600 nits brightness, a sharp 1856x2160 resolution, and a 120Hz refresh rate, outperforming its predecessor in brightness and smoothness. Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset and 12GB RAM, the Fold6 excels in multitasking and gaming, achieving high AnTuTu (1,608,744) scores. Battery life, at 4400mAh, offers 15W wireless charging but struggles under heavy gaming with mild heat issues. The 50MP triple camera setup, though similar to 2023, is versatile, making it well-suited for competitors like Google Pixel Fold and Oppo Find N3. Read more: Video Games for December 2024: Exciting Virtual Games Scheduled for Launch Samsung Galaxy Z Fold6 is currently available in Bangladesh for about 145,000 Tk.    iPhone 16 Pro Max Released on September 20, 2024, the iPhone 16 Pro Max refines flagship excellence with a 6.9-inch LTPO OLED display offering unmatched brightness (2000 nits) and an adaptive 120Hz refresh rate. Its A18 Pro chip (3nm) delivers 15% faster CPU and 20% better GPU performance than the 2023 iPhone 15 Pro Max, ensuring smooth multitasking and gaming- although occasional heat issues arise under heavy loads. Equipped with 8GB RAM and a maximum of 1TB NVMe storage, the 16 Pro Max offers an ideal package for power users. Its 48MP ultra-wide camera and 5x telephoto lens outpace competitors like the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra. Boasting a 4685mAh battery, it offers 33 hours of playback, 4 hours longer than its predecessor. iPhone 16 Pro Max costs about 164,000 tk in Bangladesh. Read more: November 2024 Video Game Releases: Must-Play Titles You Don’t Want to Miss Xiaomi 14T Pro The Xiaomi 14T Pro, released on September 26, 2024, boasts a 6.67" AMOLED display with 144Hz refresh rate and Dolby Vision, a significant upgrade over 2023 models like the Xiaomi 13T Pro. Powered by the Dimensity 9300+ processor, it's a powerhouse for gaming and multitasking, outperforming rivals like the OnePlus 11 with its Immortalis-G720 GPU. Memory options up to 1TB and 16GB RAM ensure smooth performance. The 5000mAh battery, coupled with 120W wired and 50W wireless charging, offers impressive longevity. The 50MP triple camera setup is a standout, matching competitors in camera performance. However, like other gaming smartphones, its heat management may require attention during intensive tasks. Xiaomi 14T Pro is available for around 90,000 Tk in Bangladesh. Asus ROG Phone 9 Pro The Asus ROG Phone 9 Pro, released on November 20, 2024, is a powerhouse built for mobile gamers. With a 6.78-inch LTPO AMOLED display offering 185Hz refresh rate and up to 2500 nits peak brightness, it significantly improves on its 2023 predecessors, such as the ROG Phone 8, which had lower refresh rates. Read more: realme GT7 Pro Review: Speed, Style, and Gaming Excellence at a Competitive Price Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite, paired with 16GB or 24GB RAM, it offers stellar gaming performance and multitasking. It is a competent gaming smartphone against competitors like the Xiaomi Black Shark 5 Pro and Redmagic 8 Pro. Despite its raw power, heat management remains a concern, though its 5800mAh battery with 65W charging ensures long-lasting sessions. The 50MP main camera and 32MP front camera elevate its photography, making it versatile beyond gaming. The price of the Asus ROG Phone 9 Pro in Bangladesh is about 170,000 TK. Read more: vivo iQoo Neo9s Pro Review: The Mid-Range Gaming Powerhouse You’ve Been Waiting For? Conclusion The 2024 gaming smartphone market showcases innovation, with devices like the Asus ROG Phone 8 Pro, Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra, and iPhone 16 Pro Max offering top-tier performance. Highlights include the ROG 9 Pro’s 185Hz display, the Fold6's multitasking prowess, and the Xiaomi 14T Pro's rapid charging. These high-end gaming smartphones released in 2024 have elevated gaming and multitasking, setting new performance, display, and design benchmarks. The prices of these gaming smartphones are subject to change. Read more: Top 10 Global ESports Tournaments of 2025

A groundbreaking law banning social media use for children under 16 cleared the Australian Senate on Thursday, poised to become a world-first regulation. Under this legislation, platforms like TikTok, Facebook, Snapchat, Reddit, X, and Instagram could face fines up to 50 million Australian dollars ($33 million) for failing to prevent users under 16 from creating accounts, reports AP. Australia's House of Representatives passes bill that would ban young children from social media The bill passed the Senate with 34 votes in favour and 19 against, following its overwhelming approval in the House of Representatives on Wednesday by 102 votes to 13. While the House still needs to endorse opposition amendments made in the Senate, this step is procedural, as the government has already signalled its agreement, it said. The platforms have one year to devise measures to enforce the ban before penalties take effect. Amendments introduced in the Senate aim to enhance privacy protections, barring platforms from requiring government-issued identification such as passports or driver’s licences, or demanding verification through government digital systems. The House is scheduled to approve these amendments on Friday. Critics, however, are concerned about potential privacy implications for users who will need to prove they are older than 16. While the legislation enjoys bipartisan support, child welfare and mental health advocates have raised concerns about unintended consequences. Sen. David Shoebridge of the minority Greens party highlighted mental health experts’ warnings that the ban could isolate vulnerable children who rely on social media for support. “This policy will hurt vulnerable young people the most, especially in regional communities and especially the LGBTQI community, by cutting them off,” Shoebridge said. Conversely, opposition Sen. Maria Kovacic described the bill as a necessary step. “The core focus of this legislation is simple: It demands that social media companies take reasonable steps to identify and remove underage users from their platforms,” Kovacic said, criticising platforms for prioritising profits over responsibility. The legislation has been welcomed by some campaigners. Sonya Ryan, an online safety advocate whose 15-year-old daughter Carly was murdered by an online predator posing as a teenager, hailed the Senate vote as a “monumental moment in protecting our children from horrendous harms online.” “It’s too late for my daughter, Carly, and the many other children who have suffered terribly and those who have lost their lives in Australia, but let us stand together on their behalf and embrace this together,” Ryan told AP via email. Wayne Holdsworth, whose teenage son Mac died by suicide after being targeted in an online sextortion scam, expressed pride in the legislation’s passage. “I have always been a proud Australian, but for me subsequent to today’s Senate decision, I am bursting with pride,” Holdsworth said in an email to AP. Despite this support, others remain critical. Christopher Stone, executive director of Suicide Prevention Australia, said the law neglects the benefits social media provides in supporting young people’s mental health and fostering connections. “The government is running blindfolded into a brick wall by rushing this legislation. Young Australians deserve evidence-based policies, not decisions made in haste,” Stone said in a statement. Social media companies had urged the Senate to delay the vote until June next year, when a government evaluation of age-assurance technologies is expected to provide insights into excluding underage users. Some critics see the legislation as a political move ahead of a general election due by May, with the government aiming to assure parents it is addressing concerns about children’s social media use. Opponents argue the ban could do more harm than good. Among their concerns are the rushed legislative process, privacy risks, and the undermining of parental authority. Additionally, critics fear the ban might isolate children, deprive them of social media’s positive aspects, push them towards the dark web, discourage reporting of harm by underage users, and disincentivise platforms from improving safety measures.