tech
WEF in Riyadh: Salman F Rahman bats for knowledge transfer, sharing in advanced tech
Prime Minister's Private Industry and Investment Adviser Salman F Rahman on Tuesday laid emphasis on worldwide sharing of technological capabilities to ensure benefits for the entire world.
“Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology may pose a threat to development by exacerbating the gap between the developed and underdeveloped nations. Excessive use of technology [AI robots replacing human jobs in industries] can potentially pose threats to human beings and development in the future,” he said.
Salman said this while speaking at a special meeting of the World Economic Forum in Saudi Arabia's Riyadh, that has emerged as a mid-year, Middle Eastern counterpart to the WEF's annual meet in Davos, Switzerland held in January.
The unprecedented advancements in technology are exacerbating the gap between the developed and underdeveloped nations, he said, adding that investors are also directing investments towards opportunities with high profit potential.
On Bangladesh, Salman said the country was overcoming its economic crisis and turning around.
Emphasising Bangladesh's achievements across diverse sectors, Salman said the country's development persisted even amidst the Covid-19 pandemic.
"However, the economic repercussions of the Russia-Ukraine conflict have posed challenges for the country, including declining forex reserves and the appreciation of dollar against taka," he added.
Despite Bangladesh's non-involvement in the conflict, it bears the brunt of the consequences, he said.
At the meeting world leaders advocated for equitable distribution of technology worldwide, extending beyond solely developed nations.
They also discussed global cooperation, economic growth, and energy policies.
Microsoft will invest $1.7 billion in AI and cloud infrastructure in Indonesia
Microsoft will invest $1.7 billion over the next four years in new cloud and artificial intelligence infrastructure in Indonesia — the single largest investment in Microsoft’s 29-year history in the country — Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella said Tuesday.
Microsoft runs one of the world’s largest cloud computing operations and has taken a significant step into artificial intelligence by incorporating an AI chatbot into its search engine, Bing. Its earnings report Thursday said profit rose 20% for the January-March quarter as it tries to position itself as a leader in applying artificial intelligence technology to make workplaces more productive.
“This new generation of AI is reshaping how people live and work everywhere, including in Indonesia,” said Nadella, in Jakarta on the first stop of a tour of Southeast Asia.
“The investments we are announcing today — spanning digital infrastructure, skilling, and support for developers — will help Indonesia thrive in this new era,” he said.
Microsoft sees Southeast Asia as a growing market and potential location for more AI product development. The rise of AI in the region is expected to significantly impact its economic landscape. A study held by Kearney, a global consulting firm, said that AI could contribute nearly $1 trillion to Southeast Asia’s GDP by 2030, of which Indonesia is expected to capture $366 billion.
The investment announced Tuesday will include AI training for 840,000 people, as well as support for Indonesia’s growing community of tech developers.
Indonesia is home to the third-largest developer community in the Asia-Pacific region after India and China. More than 3.1 million developers in Indonesia use GitHub, a Microsoft-owned platform for software development, collaboration, and innovation. It is projected to be one of the top five developer communities on GitHub globally by 2026.
Apple CEO Tim Cook met Widodo on April 17 and said the company would “look at” manufacturing in Indonesia.
Indonesia, under President Joko Widodo’s administration, has emphasized development of digital technology and information sectors, aiming to achieve the government’s Golden Indonesia 2045 Vision, which projects Indonesia becoming one of the world’s top five economies with GDP of up to $9 trillion, exactly a century after it won independence from Dutch colonizers.
Nadella met Widodo on Tuesday in the Presidential Palace. During the meeting, Widodo proposed building an AI research center in Indonesia, and a Microsoft data center based in Bali or Nusantara, the country's new capital city on Borneo island, according to Indonesia’s Minister of Communication and Information Technology, Budi Arie Setiadi.
The CEO’s regional visit began in Indonesia and will be followed by Thailand and Malaysia over the next two days.
Meizu 21 Review: A Detailed Look at the Latest Flagship Killer
The Chinese smartphone brand Meizu has been known for manufacturing powerful phones at a comparatively lower price point. Their latest innovation is Meizu 21. This flagship killer was released in China on 30 November 2023. Does the phone live up to the mark? Let’s look at the features, pros, cons, and price of Meizu 21 in Bangladesh.
Key Features and Specs of Meizu 21
Design
The Meizu 21 smartphone features a 156.7 mm by 75.3 mm by 7.9 mm middle frame crafted from new aviation-grade aluminum. Its assembly utilizes advanced CNC machining, akin to techniques used in aviation, ensuring high precision. This design makes the device resistant to falls and pressure, enhancing durability.
With a slim profile of 7.9mm and weighing 198g, the Meizu 21 comes in four attractive colors: Unbounded Black, Meizu White, Ruiyi Cyan, and Smart Purple. The rear camera module adopts a borderless narrow-edge lens design with a black-coated lens ring. In contrast, the camera lens surface showcases a fine nano-etching process, creating a distinctive CD pattern.
Read more: Motorola Moto G54 Review: Can It Hold the Legacy?
The Meizu 21 introduces the "Aicy Smart Ring" to elevate user interaction with its multi-scenario interactive ring light system. Additionally, its "Unbounded Antenna System 2.0" enhances signal performance by 30% compared to its predecessor, supported by mSmart Net technology for comprehensive network optimization. The screen’s bezel has been reduced to 1.74mm which is certainly praiseworthy.
Display
The Meizu 21 bears a 6.55-inch FHD+ Samsung OLED Display with a resolution of 2340 by 1080 pixels. This display offers vivid colors and sharp details, providing an immersive viewing experience. With a refresh rate of 120Hz, interactions with the device are smooth and responsive. The display's brightness reaches up to 1800 nits, ensuring clear visibility even in bright sunlight, and it employs 1920Hz PWM technology for enhanced brightness control.
The screen-to-body ratio is approximately 89.3%, offering a large viewing area. The symmetrical bezels are incredibly slim, measuring just 1.74mm.
Read more: Honor X7b Review: Budget-friendly Phone with Powerful Battery
Performance and Hardware
The Meizu 21 is equipped with the latest Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 4nm chipset, featuring an octa-core CPU with a unique architecture of Cortex-X4, Cortex-A720, Cortex-A520, and Cortex-A720 cores, delivering high-performance capabilities. The chipset is fabricated using a 4nm process. Its Adreno 750 GPU enhances graphic rendering for smooth gaming and multimedia experiences.
Meizu 21 runs on Android 13 with the Flyme 10.5 interface. The device sports 12GB LPDDR5X RAM and 512GB UFS4.0 flash memory, offering ample storage and efficient multitasking. Performance tests reveal improved CPU and GPU performance compared to its predecessor, with enhanced gaming capabilities and lower power consumption. The device features a large heat dissipation area, maintaining stable performance during heavy gaming sessions.
Camera
The Meizu 21 features a triple rear camera setup, headlined by a 200MP (f/1.7) primary lens, accompanied by a 13MP (f/2.4) ultra-wide lens and a 5MP (f/2.4) wide-angle lens. The main camera supports features like Ring-LED flash, panorama, and HDR, with video recording capabilities of up to 8K resolution with gyro-EIS.
Read more: vivo iQOO 12 Review: Flagship Killer or a Flagship Itself?
It has a 32 MP (f/2.4) selfie camera with HDR support on the front side, offering various filters and effects. The camera software supports dynamic range and manages colors and contrast effectively.
The device's native camera app provides several modes and filters, allowing users to make the most of the secondary lenses for improved photography. While low-light performance is commendable with reduced noise, night mode enhances color vibrancy.
The rear camera can shoot 8K footage at maximum with gyro-EIS. However, the quality of videos is comparatively lower than the other competitors in its price ranges.
Read more: realme GT5 Review: A gaming phone with high capability
Battery and Charger
The Meizu 21 is powered by a built-in 4800 mAh battery. It supports rapid 80W fast charging, allowing a full charge in just 40 minutes, as per Meizu's claims. This device incorporates Meizu Ice World cooling technology and OneMind 10.5, along with a large heat dissipation stack area of 37345mm², ensuring a balanced performance and battery life. With NFC and infrared remote control support, it's versatile in connectivity.
The Meizu 21 runs on Flyme 10.5, featuring Aicy AI and Flyme AR. Users can enjoy up to 5+ hours of screen time on a single-round charge, along with approximately three hours of gameplay and additional hours of content streaming.
With 80W wired charging, convenience meets efficiency in powering up the Meizu 21. However, modern features like reverse and wireless charging could make it a better deal.
Read more: Infinix Note 40 Pro Review: A Mid-Range Phone with 108P sensor, MagSafe Charging
The Price of Meizu 21 in Bangladesh
Meizu 21 phone’s 12/256GB ROM version is currently available in Bangladesh at around BDT 62,000. However, the price may vary depending on the sellers.
Pros and Cons of Meizu 21
Pros
- Impressive Display with 120Hz refresh rate and 1800 nit brightness- Powerful Snapdragon chipset for high-performance capabilities- Versatile and dynamic camera system- Large battery with fast charging- Elegant design with slim bezels and four attractive color options- Advanced features, including Flyme 10.5 OS- Ultrasonic Finger Reader and Dual Stereo Speakers.
Read more: Samsung Galaxy A35 Review: Does It Offer Value for Money?
Cons
- Average camera software- Outdated Android interface- No support for reverse or wireless charging- Uses an older version of the Type-C port- Lacks a microSD card slot- Lacks the audio jack- No gorilla glass protection.
Conclusion
The Meizu 21 offers users a good experience with its impressive performance, stunning display, and long-lasting battery life. However, it's essential to acknowledge its shortcomings, such as the lack of gorilla glass protection on display, lack of wireless and reverse charging support, average camera software, outdated Android interface, etc.
Despite these drawbacks, the Meizu 21 remains a standout choice for those seeking a blend of sophistication and functionality. People who need a reliable phone for gaming and heavy tasks can go for Meizu 21.
Read more: 7 Best Smartphones Being Released in May 2024
7 Best Smartphones Being Released in May 2024
Like every month, in May 2024, a wide range of smartphones are set to hit the shelves. From long-lasting batteries to powerful processors and impressive camera capabilities, smartphone lovers should get ready to be impressed by the innovation coming their way this May.
7 Most Hyped Smartphones Coming in May 2024
vivo V30e
vivo has officially teased the upcoming launch of the V30e, set to hit the Indian market on May 2nd. This fresh addition to their lineup promises exciting features, including a hefty 5,500 mAh battery and an impressive 50 MP main camera, accompanied by vivo's signature Aura Light design.
The V30e marks a significant milestone for vivo's V series, boasting a sleek design despite its substantial battery capacity, measuring just 7.69 mm thin. It sports a Sony IMX882 sensor for its main shooter and a 50 MP sensor for the front-facing camera with autofocus capabilities.
Read more: Motorola Moto G54 Review: Can It Hold the Legacy?
Additionally, the V30e is geared for longevity with its "4-year battery health" promise, retaining 80% of its capacity even after 1,600 full charging cycles.
Google Pixel 8a
The upcoming Google Pixel 8a boasts impressive features and is rumored to be announced on 14th May. It will have a 6.1-inch OLED display with HDR support and a smooth 90Hz refresh rate. Powered by the cutting-edge Google Tensor G3 chipset, comprising a nona-core CPU and Immortalis-G715s MC10 GPU, it promises swift performance for multitasking and gaming.
The dual rear camera setup, featuring a 64MP main shooter and a 13MP ultrawide lens is to capture above-standard level photos and videos in various conditions. And, the 13MP front camera ensures crisp selfies.
Read more: Honor X7b Review: Budget-friendly Phone with Powerful Battery
With a spacious 256GB internal storage and 8GB RAM, users can store plenty of data and enjoy smooth app operations. Despite its premium features, the Google Pixel 8a aims to be accessible with an anticipated reasonable price tag.
OnePlus Ace 3V
In May 2024, the rebranded OnePlus Ace 3V comes with cutting-edge features. It will have sleek dimensions of 162.7 mm by 75.2 mm by 8.5 mm and a durable build of glass front, glass back, and plastic frame.
Its 6.74-inch AMOLED display, with 1 billion colors and a 120Hz refresh rate, will deliver good visuals even in bright environments, reaching a peak brightness of 2150 nits.
Read more: vivo iQOO 12 Review: Flagship Killer or a Flagship Itself?
Powered by Android 14 and ColorOS 14 on the Qualcomm Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 chipset, it promises smooth performance. A versatile camera setup, waterproof and dustproof IP65 rating, and lightning-fast 100W wired charging for the 5500mAh battery ensure an unparalleled user experience.
Motorola Edge 50 Ultra
Get ready for the launch of the Motorola Edge 50 Ultra in May 2024, boasting a stunning 144 Hz refresh rate on its 6.70-inch touchscreen display with a resolution of 2712 by 1220 pixels, delivering crisp visuals with a pixel density of 446 ppi. It bears a dimension of 161.1 mm by 72.4 mm by 8.6 mm.
This phone runs on Qualcomm SM8635 Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 (4 nm) chipset. With a hefty 12GB RAM and Android 14, it ensures seamless performance, while its 4500mAh battery supports lightning-fast 100W Fast Charging. It sports a triple rear camera setup, including a 50MP main lens, another 50MP lens, and a 64MP periscope telephoto camera. Selfies are equally impressive with the 50 MP front camera.
Read more: Nokia C32: Reliable Budget Smartphone for Everyday Use Under BDT 14,000
With a generous 512GB storage, dual-SIM capability, and IP68 rating for dust and water protection, the Edge 50 Ultra is set to offer a premium experience in Forest Grey, Nordic Wood, and Peach Fuzz colors.
vivo iQOO Z9 Turbo
The iQOO Z9 Turbo is an upcoming smartphone waiting to be announced anytime soon. Boasting a stunning 6.7-inch AMOLED display with an impressive 144 Hz refresh rate and HDR support, the phone promises a premium display experience.
Its octa-core CPU should provide seamless performance, powered by Android 14 and the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 4nm chipset. With up to 12GB of RAM and storage options ranging from 128GB to 256GB, there will be ample space for all your apps and files.
Read more: Samsung Galaxy A35 Review: Does It Offer Value for Money?
The phone aims to capture life's moments in stunning detail with its dual 50 MP main camera setup, while the 16MP selfie camera ensures you always look your best.
Plus, with a massive 6000mAh battery and 66W wired charging, the device can stay powered up a whole day. With IP54 dust-splash resistance and Dragontrail Star 2 Plus protection, the iQOO Z9 Turbo is ready to amuse users.
Samsung Galaxy M44
The Samsung Galaxy M44 is a new Samsung phone that is soon to be released. It's rumored to have a big 6.58-inch screen with a smooth 120 Hz refresh rate and a sharp display resolution. Inside, it's said to have 6GB of RAM and a powerful 5000mAh battery that charges up quickly.
Read more: Infinix Note 40 Pro Review: A Mid-Range Phone with 108P sensor, MagSafe Charging
For photos, it might have three cameras on the back, including a 50-megapixel sensor, and two 2-megapixel cameras. And for selfies, there could be a 13-megapixel camera on the front. The device will be equipped with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 chipset.
Storage-wise, it's expected to come with 128GB built-in, and you can add even more with a microSD card. It's likely to be available in black and white colors, and it's said to be a single SIM phone. It's supposed to be on the bigger side and weigh around 216 grams.
Honor X50 Pro
Scheduled for an imminent release in May 2024, the Honor X50 Pro epitomizes cutting-edge technology. The phone will come in dimensions of 163.6 mm by 75.5 mm by 8 mm and a weight of 192g. Its 6.78-inch AMOLED display boasts 1 billion colors and a smooth 120Hz refresh rate.
Read more: itel P55 Plus Review: Budget-friendly Phone with Interesting Design Elements, Fast Charging
Powered by Android 14 and the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 4nm chipset, its Octa-core CPU is expected to deliver good performance. The device offers ample internal storage of 256 GB supported by 12GB RAM.
Its photography prowess is highlighted by a remarkable 108MP dual main camera setup, and a 2MP depth sensor, delivering quality photos and videos in 4K resolution. It will have an 8MP selfie camera.
With a massive 5800mAh battery and 35W wired charging capability, the Honor X50 Pro ensures long-lasting usage and quick recharge times.
Read more: Nothing Phone 2a Review: What’s New?
Conclusion
May 2024 promises a bunch of new smartphones ranging from budget-friendly to flagship levels. From camera powerhouses like the Honor X50 Pro to long-lasting options like the vivo V30e, there's a phone ready to impress. Whether you prioritize lightning-fast performance or a stunning display, stay tuned as these exciting devices hit the market this May.
Bangladesh participates in Japan IT Week
Bangladesh participated in Japan IT Week, Spring, 2024 held from April 24- 26, 2024 at the Tokyo Big Sight. Ambassador of Bangladesh to Japan Shahabuddin Ahmed and Managing Director of Bangladesh Hi-Tech Park Authority G S M Jafarullah, ndc, inaugurated Bangladesh Pavilion on 24th April.
In the evening on the same day, Embassy of Bangladesh organized a seminar titled 'Digital Bangladesh: Your IT Destination' at the Seminar Hall of Tokyo Big Sight, in collaboration with Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO), UNIDO ITPO Tokyo and Bangladesh Association of Software and Information Services (BASIS).
Ambassador Shahabuddin Ahmed in his speech urged Japanese companies to invest in Bangladesh. G S M Jafarullah, ndc, Managing Director of Bangladesh Hi-Tech Park Authority, highlighted investment opportunists in the Hi-Tech Parks in Bangladesh. Senior Director of JETRO Yukihide Nakayama spoke about the business environment in Bangladesh while Masahiro Horikawa, CEO of BJIT Inc. shared his business experiences in Bangladesh. Dr. Ariful Haque, Minister (Commerce) of the Embassy delivered a presentation on support services to Japanese companies by the Embassy. On behalf of BASIS, Rejwanur Kabir, COO, Destiny Inc. explained about Bangladesh’s thriving IT sector, investment and business opportunities for Japanese companies and strength of exhibitor companies.
Japan IT Week is one of the major events on information technology in Asia. This year around 900 exhibitors from 20 countries across the world participated in the event. Seventeen Bangladeshi IT companies participated in the event under the auspices of Hi-Tech Park Authority. Japanese companies showed keen interest to Bangladeshi IT companies, and it is expected that Bangladesh’s participation in this fair will help boost Bangladesh’s IT and ITES export to Japan.
On the evening of 26th April, Bangladesh Embassy organized an Opinion Exchange & Networking Event on “Promoting Bangladesh’s IT & ITES Sector in Japan” at the Bangabandhu Auditorium of the Embassy with the participation of the Bangladeshi exhibitors of Japan IT Week, Bangladeshi IT Professionals in Japan and Embassy Officials.
Race to acquire TikTok heats up
As the legal drama over TikTok’s ownership escalates, the potential sale of the social media giant has attracted interest from a diverse array of sectors, keen on tapping into its vast US user base of 170 million.
The urgency to sell follows US President Joe Biden’s recent legislation requiring TikTok's Chinese parent company, ByteDance, to divest its stake, sparking widespread speculation about possible buyers, according to CNN.
Tech heavyweights like Meta and Google, however, are expected to stay on the sidelines due to existing antitrust concerns. Analysts believe that any acquisition attempts by these firms could trigger serious regulatory scrutiny, further complicating their already delicate positions within ongoing antitrust investigations.
Meanwhile, Microsoft, which previously attempted to purchase TikTok in 2020, may re-enter the fray. Given its successful track record in handling antitrust issues and the absence of a similar platform in its digital portfolio, Microsoft is considered a strong contender. Oracle, another former interested party, is also seen as a possible buyer, having shown interest in the past.
Adding a twist to the saga, former Trump administration Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin has announced his intention to form an investment group to bid for TikTok. This move has stirred controversy due to Mnuchin's involvement in past efforts to ban the app, with critics questioning potential conflicts of interest.
Venture capitalist Kevin O'Leary, chairman of O'Leary Ventures, is another potential bidder, albeit with specific stipulations, including the exclusion of TikTok’s proprietary algorithm from the acquisition.
The looming sale of TikTok not only signifies a major business transaction but also highlights critical issues surrounding data privacy, national security, and corporate dominance in the tech sector. As the acquisition battle unfolds, the future of one of the world's most popular social media platforms remains uncertain, with prospective buyers carefully considering the implications of such a significant undertaking.
At China’s largest auto show, shift to digital and new-energy vehicles grab spotlight
Global automakers and EV startups unveiled new models and concept cars at China’s largest auto show on Thursday, with a focus on the nation’s transformation into a major market and production base for digitally connected, new-energy vehicles.
Toyota and Nissan both announced tie-ups with major Chinese technology companies as they strive to meet customer demand for AI-enabled online connectivity in cars, from social media apps to autonomous driving features.
Electric vehicles accounted for about a quarter of all auto sales in China last year. Hybrids, which have trailed EVs, are expected to be a growing segment going forward.
China’s largest EV maker, BYD, showed off two “dual-mode” plug-in cars that can run either solely on electricity or as hybrids. The other is a hybrid off-road SUV from its luxury Yangwang brand in the 1 million yuan-plus ($140,000) range.
“China’s EVs, represented by (BYD’s) Qin and Han series, have successfully realized the large-scale replacement of traditional fuel cars, and this trend is irreversible,” said Lu Tian, the head of sales for BYD’s Dynasty models. The cars are named after former imperial dynasties.
An executive from Chery, a more traditional Chinese maker, offered a more moderate perspective. Li Xueyong, a deputy general manager, said they envision a future of 40% fuel vehicles, 30% hybrids and 30% electric. The company plans to develop both fuel-powered and new-energy cars.
BYD has been expanding rapidly into overseas markets, launching its low-priced Dolphin Mini, sold as the Seagull in China, in Latin American markets this year.
Shenzhen's Rise: From Humble Beginnings to Global Tech Titan
It’s building a factory in Brazil on the site of a former Ford plant that closed when the U.S. maker left the country. Two other Chinese automakers including Chery already have factories in Brazil.
BYD accounted for 41% of EV sales in Brazil in the first three months of this year, though the overall number is still relatively low.
In Mexico, Chinese vehicles went from about 2.6% of the market in 2021 to 19.2% in the first quarter of this year. Most of those were gasoline-powered vehicles, as there are few charging stations and the cost of electricity makes it expensive to do so at home.
Chinese makers are making inroads in Europe too, raising concern in some countries that they pose a potential threat to European automakers and jobs. The EU is weighing whether to impose tariffs on China-made EVs because of government subsidies that drove the industry’s growth.
A proliferation of EV makers, encouraged by tax breaks as well as green-energy subsides, has prompted a fierce price war that is expected to lead to a shakeout and consolidation of the industry in the coming years.
For foreign players aside from American EV maker Tesla, it has challenged them to accelerate the development of new electric car models to stay competitive in the world’s largest auto market.
“No other region of the world has a transformation of the automotive industry that is as fast-paced as in China,” Volkswagen CEO Oliver Blume said Wednesday at an event previewing its appearance at the auto show.
“This market has become something of a fitness center for us,” he said. “We have to work harder and faster to keep.”
Other automakers expressed similar sentiments. Japan’s Nissan sent many top executives to the Beijing auto show to feel first-hand the pace of change in China, company President Makoto Uchida said.
Nissan was going to sign a memorandum or understanding with Baidu, a Chinese search engine and AI company, later Thursday. Uchida said Nissan needs to meet the needs of Chinese customers and the speed at which the market is changing.
“If we cannot do these two aspects, it will very difficult to keep our business in China,” he said.
Toyota announced a tie-up with Tencent, the maker of the widely-used WeChat messaging and e-payment app.
Honor X7b Review: Budget-friendly Phone with Powerful Battery
Volvo, the Swedish brand bought by China’s Geely group, stressed a simpler approach to the digitalization of its cars.
Likely aiming at a somewhat older audience, the company said its new EX30 electric SUV has an audio system and tablet screen that are easy to operate and uses sustainable fabrics in its interior.
“We believe that technology should be measured by its utility, not just its novelty,” said Xiaolin Yuan, Volvo’s Asia-Pacific head.
The EX30 will sell for 210,000 to 260,000 yuan ($29,000 - $36,000) in China, the company announced.
American brands at the show included Lincoln, Cadillac, Buick and Chevrolet. Ford presented a muscular look tied to its history, telling the story of the Mustang and Bronco - which it described as a “sports utility vehicle” when it was launched in 1966 — and showing the latest versions of those models.
Mist Fan Buyer Guide and Price Ranges in Bangladesh for 2024
Bangladesh is currently going through mild to severe heat waves. Due to the scorching sun and heat, many people are experiencing heat-related illnesses like dehydration, heat stroke, heat exhaustion, etc. Not to mention, the extremely hot weather has accelerated the sales of air conditioners. However, not everyone can afford AC due to its initial and operational costs. Nowadays, mist fans are gaining popularity as cost-effective cooling gadgets to beat the heat. It can be an affordable solution to stay cool without breaking the bank.
What’s the Difference Between a Mist Fan and an Air Conditioner?
There’s a common marketing trope that mist fans are mini air conditioners. But the truth is that mist fans and air conditioners are different things and they work on different principles.
Mist fans atomize the water and disperse in the air. The dispersed water particles quickly evaporate by absorbing the heat from the surroundings. This rapid evaporation causes a cooling effect, lowering the ambient temperature in the surrounding area.
On the other hand, air conditioners cool an area by removing the heat and humidity from the air. It uses the refrigeration principle to replace the hot air inside in a cyclic manner.
Mist fans can reduce the temperature by 3-4 degrees Celcius in a semi-open or open environment. On the other hand, air conditioners can drastically reduce the temperature as they work best in an enclosed environment.
Though mist fans are not alternatives to ACs, these cooling gadgets can give comfort by cooling the room temperature spreading mists and air.
Read more: Heat Stroke Prevention: Best foods, drinks to avoid heat exhaustion
What to Consider Before Buying a Mist Fan?
There are several things to consider while buying the perfect mist fan. With tons of options available in the market, here’s a list of things you should check before buying one.
Portability and Size
One of the key things to consider is the need for portability of your mist fan. Do you need to move it around or will it remain stationary at one place? Depending on portability, mist fans come in several sizes. It is recommended to choose one that best fits your use case.
Misting Level
The misting capacity is another thing to consider while getting a mist fan. If you plan to use the fan outdoors, it is recommended to buy a fan with a high water reserve and high misting capacity.
Mist Fan Coverage
The size and misting capacity of a mist fan greatly determines the coverage area. If you want to cover a small area, then portable type mist fans can be a great choice. When you want to cover a large area from a stationary position, consider getting a pedestal-type mist fan.
Read more: Heat Stroke: Symptoms, First Aid, and Prevention
Fan Speed and Functions
Mist fans come with different functions at different price points. A basic mist fan may provide different fan speeds but an advanced and more expensive fan may have different wind modes and mist control.
Noise Level
Large mist fans (pedestal type) make a lot of noise which can be problematic for indoor use. If you’re planning to buy a mist fan for your home, it would be wise to go for a portable or a smaller one as they tend to make less noise compared to the large pedestal ones.
Power Source
The power source is another thing to consider while buying a mist fan. For example, if you want to use the mist fan outdoors, it needs to have a battery charge feature. Many indoor mist fans also come with a dual power feature.
Rechargeability
Rechargeable mist fans can work for several hours without electricity. Depending on the specifications, these kinds of mist fans need to be connected to power lines for hours to get recharged. During power cuts and load sheddings, a charged mist fan can spread cool air and mists to keep you cool.
Read more: Summer Heatwave: Here’s How to Keep Children Safe
Durability
The durability of the fan plays an important role, especially if you are planning to use it outdoors. As a rule of thumb, sturdy, metal-built mist fans would be better for outdoor use whereas plastic ones would suffice for indoor conditions.
Additional Features
Many mist fans these days come with additional features like insect repellant, air purification, and even LED lights. You can assess each feature based on your usage.
Price and Warranty
And last but not least, it is recommended to double-check the price and warranty. Additional things to check include user reviews and brand reputation to make sure you’re getting the bang for your buck.
Motorola Moto G54 Review: Can It Hold the Legacy?
Motorola is a popular brand who manufacture stylish, quality, and feature-oriented smartphones under diverse price segments. The Motorola Moto G54 was released on September 6, 2023, in India, targeting the budget-friendly user segment. Motorola offers some premium features in this phone within budget. Can the Motorola Moto G54 carry on the reputation? Let’s find out.
Key Features and Specs of Moto G54
Design
The Moto G54 5G maintains a similar design to its predecessor, the G53 5G, but with slight size reductions, measuring 161.6 mm by 73.8 mm by 8mm and weighing 177g.
Available in Midnight Blue, Indigo Blue (vegan leather-backed), Glacier Blue, and Mint Green, it offers options for different preferences. Its physical features remain consistent, with ports at the bottom, a power button (with fingerprint reader), volume keys on the right, and a SIM tray on the left. It supports dual SIMs and a microSD card up to 1TB.
Its front is glass and the backside is made of plastic. The frame is also built with plastic. It lacks an official IP rating and boasts a "water-repellent" design.
Read more: Honor X7b Review: Budget-friendly Phone with Powerful Battery
The bezels surrounding the screen are slim. Despite its subdued appearance and lack of flashy elements, its refined design exudes sophistication and practicality, making it a reliable choice for professionals.
The phone is equipped with dual stereo speakers supporting Dolby Atmos. The Dolby Atmos logo signifies an equalisation app, though the built-in stereo speakers are more suitable for calls than music or videos. Nonetheless, with a headphone socket and Bluetooth 5.3, users can enjoy audio through external devices.
Display
The Moto G54 5G addresses the display shortcomings of its predecessor and offers a better display. With a resolution of 2400 by 1080 pixels and a 120Hz refresh rate, its 6.5-inch screen delivers smooth visuals and remarkable colour accuracy, scoring just 1.09 on the Delta E variance scale.
While it's not OLED or AMOLED, its IPS LCD technology still impresses with crispness and sharpness. However, it falls short in brightness compared to some high-end phones, reaching around 500 nits.
Read more: vivo iQOO Z9 Review: A Budget-friendly Phone with Decent Features
Cameras
The Moto G54 5G features a 50 MP main camera with an f/1.8 aperture, similar to its predecessor, offering decent image quality with improved auto-enhancement processing for better balance between light and dark areas. However, night photography remains a challenge, with minimal artificial brightening and noticeable noise in low-light conditions.
The 2MP (f/2.4) macro camera delivers acceptable detail but may not always be the best option compared to using the main lens up close.
Video recording capabilities have been enhanced, now supporting 1080p at 60fps and featuring optical image stabilization (OIS) for smoother footage. Despite efforts to boost colours and sharpness, image quality may suffer in challenging lighting conditions, and the night mode doesn't provide significant improvements, especially for moving subjects.
The selfie camera 16 MP (f/2.4) performs reasonably well, producing decent shots in both regular and portrait modes, while video recording is capped at 1080p/30fps but remains suitable for everyday use, such as social media sharing and video calls.
Read more: Nokia C32: Reliable Budget Smartphone for Everyday Use Under BDT 14,000
Shenzhen's Rise: From Humble Beginnings to Global Tech Titan
In the late 1970s, Shenzhen was a modest fishing village, tucked away in the southern tip of Guangdong Province, China. With a small population, it was an unlikely candidate for economic stardom. Fast forward to the present day, and Shenzhen has metamorphosed into a bustling metropolis with a population exceeding 17 million — known globally as a hub of innovation and technology.
This transformation is a cornerstone of China's economic reform and a testament to the power of strategic vision and policy.
Shenzhen's remarkable transformation is showcased at the city's Reform and Opening-up Exhibition Hall, which we, a team of visiting Bangladeshi journalists, explored on April 21. Our subsequent tours of Huawei and Mindray Medical International Limited headquarters on the following day further reinforced our impressions of the city's rapid development and technological prowess.
The Catalyst of Change: Economic Reform Policies
The pivotal moment for Shenzhen came in 1980 when it was designated as China's first Special Economic Zone (SEZ) by Deng Xiaoping’s government. This designation intended to attract foreign investment and test market reforms. Shenzhen’s proximity to Hong Kong, a global financial hub, made it an ideal testbed for these reforms.
Read more: PM Hasina likely to travel to India and China in first bilateral visits since forming new govt
The SEZ status conferred unprecedented autonomy on the city in economic decision-making,
Tax incentives, fewer bureaucratic steps, and market-oriented business environment catalyzed an influx of foreign investments.
Infrastructure and Industrialization: Laying the Foundation
Concurrent with policy reforms, Shenzhen's infrastructure underwent a dramatic overhaul. The government invested heavily into building roads, ports, railways, and telecommunications networks, drastically enhancing the city’s connectivity and efficiency. The establishment of the Shenzhen Stock Exchange in 1990 further positioned the city as a financial center.
Industrial parks sprang up around the city, attracting manufacturing units from electronics to pharmaceuticals. The move from a primary focus on manufacturing to include high-tech industries was signalled by giants like Huawei and Tencent establishing their headquarters in Shenzhen. This not only diversified the city’s industrial base but also elevated its status to that of a global technology nexus.
Read more: Chinese delegation meets BGMEA leaders to discuss trade and investment potential
Innovation and Talent Attraction: Fuelling Sustained Growth
Shenzhen's policies have always favored innovation and creativity. The city is now renowned for its robust intellectual property protections which has made it attractive for tech startups and entrepreneurship. In addition, Shenzhen invests heavily in education and R&D, drawing talents from across the globe to its research institutes and think tanks.
The city’s rapid economic expansion is also supported by a unique culture that encourages experimentation and innovation. This is embodied in the landscape of sprawling tech campuses and vibrant startup incubators that dot the city.
Huawei's Robust Growth Amid Diverse Innovations
Huawei Technologies Co. Ltd., a global leader in information and communication technology (ICT) and smart devices, reported a robust revenue of US$97 billion for the year 2023. This financial milestone was prominently fueled by the company's ICT technology infrastructure, which constituted half of the total revenue.
In a strategic push to spearhead technological advancements, Huawei invested a substantial 23.4% of its annual revenue into research and development (R&D) in 2023.
Read more: Arafat appreciates Chinese support for Bangladesh’s development
It also marked a year of solid performance for Huawei’s core ICT infrastructure operations, while its consumer business achieved its set targets efficiently. The company's forays into cloud computing and digital power sectors reported steady growth. Notably, Huawei's intelligent automotive solution business commenced large-scale deliveries, signaling a promising diversification strategy that aligns with global digital transformation trends.