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Vivo V19 smartphones finally starts retailing in Kenya for Ksh. 40,999

Just after about three weeks from the launch day, vivo has finally started selling the device in Kenya with prices starting from Ksh. 40,999. The V19 which was unveiled on the 24th of last month and consequently proceeded with a pre-order period of three weeks is now available in local retail outlets.

The handset packs some of the best specs we’ve seen in the industry with Dual Punch Hole Camera setups at the front that accommodates two sensors; 32MP main camera and 8MP wide-angle sensor. On the backside is a quad-setup that includes a 48MP main camera, 8MP super wide-angle camera, 2MP macro camera, and 2MP Bokeh camera.

The front panel utilizes AMOLED technology meaning colors will be vibrant with deep contrasts thanks to true-black capability.

Speaking about the device, vivo Kenya CEO Arthur Xian was quoted saying Kenyans will now have access to their products at their convenience, which is in line with the company’s vision of providing every Kenyan with affordable yet sophisticated devices with a great experience.

Vivo V19 packs a Qualcomm Snapdragon octa-core 712 processor under the hood, 8GB RAM, 128GB internal storage and 4500mAh battery capacity which comes with 33W vivo FlashCharge 2.0 technology that enables a 0 to 54 percent charge in just 30 minutes. 

Safaricom, UNESCO and Eneza partner for digital mentorship program targeting high school students

High school Students interested in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) studies will have an opportunity to learn from their role models after Safaricom, UNESCO and Eneza inked a deal that will see them work with role models. The initiative entails students aspiring for the said studies working with role models to gather necessary information regarding their career choices.

In the initiative, learners will have an opportunity to engage with tutors through programs on local TV and community radio stations as well as through SMS via the short code 40291. Current times dictate that people exercise social distancing which has put strain on various activities in the country more so learners.

Speaking on the initiative, Safaricom’s CEO Peter Ndegwa, said they’re implementing lessons picked during this period by partnering with various organizations to offer meaningful solutions for customers using alternative channels. He further stated Safaricom was partnering with Eneza’s Shupavu 291 solution to give students access to mentors and information on STEM subjects via SMS.

More than 40 local radio stations and television channels are slated to air live shows that will encourage learners to send their questions through a text message to 40291. Mentors and facilitators will in turn send responses to each question as they engage the students. The initiative is expected to run for the next 11 weeks.

Wambura Kimunyu CEO of Eneza Education said they were happy to be part of the project that utilizes the organization’s existing “Ask a Teacher platform” on Shupavu 291 to adapt the mentorship solution. He further stated the initiative will keep students connected to STEM in the face of this global pandemic irrespective of their gender and socio-economic backgrounds.

UNESCO Regional Director Mrs. Ann Therese Ndong-Jatta, said the project will nurture leaner’s interest in STEM through the linkage between them and the role models in the STEM profession, through online interaction and the continual access to mentorship services. Ann further stated UNESCO will cooperate with the Ministry of Education, the Kenya National Commission for UNESCO, the National Commission for Science Technology and Innovation (NACOSTI) and Safaricom to provide students with information on STEM Education and life and survival skills to enable then overcome gender stereotypes about STEM careers, hence developing interest in science related subjects while learning from home.

Statistics show that only 22% of all students who are enrolled in Kenyan universities are in STEM fields despite the large number of related programmes on offer and the critical role they play in development.

LG unveils Nano Ni Noma Influencer Campaign to reward lucky winners with 55” Nanocell TV

LG East Africa has unveiled a campaign that seeks to reward 5 lucky Kenyans with one of its 55inch Nanocell TV sets. The challenge which is expected to run for a duration of three weeks from 3rd July until 24th of July is open to all Kenyan residents who are not directly involved with LG including employees of LG or from third party firms associated with the company.

Requirements for LG Ni Noma influencer campaign

  • You must be a Kenyan resident not affiliated in anyway with the company. This includes all relatives of any third-party company that is directly associated with LG.
  • You ought to have attained at least a minimum of 18 years to qualify – no minors allowed
  • The competition will be open to all Kenyan residents from 3rd July 2020 – 24th July 2020.

How to Participate in the competition;

Create an interesting short clip that lasts between 30 and 60 seconds showcasing your talent to be chosen for the LG Influencer campaign

Upload the video at: http://nanoninoma.com/

Judging:

The panel of judges comprising of Wahu, Nameless, DJ Moh, LG Electronics marketing team and Disruptive Media team will pick the best 100 videos.

Rewards;

The top 100 selected will be briefed on a series of engagement of which the top 5 will be then awarded a brand new 55” Nanocell TV.

Top 5 High-Tech Kitchen gadgets you must have at home – readily available in Kenya

We understand that cooking is not everyone’s ideal home activity – me included! However, times have changed and we now live in an era where we can no longer socialize without taking proper precautions and dining at restaurants is almost completely prohibited. But for those of us who like making some of these activities easier by utilizing technology, there are a couple of gadgets that could push you to love homemade meals once again.

Who said preparing meals at home couldn’t be just as fun? With a little touch of tech in your kitchen, the impact could be just as exhilarating as waiting for your next smartphone, car, bike or whatever it is you look forward to. Now that we have no option but use our kitchens for obvious reasons, I’ve compiled a list of locally available gadgets that could make your life easier. And spending time in your kitchen could be fun than ever thanks to technology.

Previously, I posted one of the most futuristic editorial touching on smart homes here in Kenya I think you should also read; in the article, we highlighted some of the locally available gadgets that are not expensive you could use to start upgrading in your house for a smart home. While the editorial more or less focused in the living room, the same makeovers can be implemented in the kitchen with proper gadgets.

Top 5 High-Tech Kitchen gadgets;

  • Connected coffee maker

For those of us who love coffee to the core, this gadget could be mind blowing! Imagine very early in the morning for those who are currently working from home, sitting in your bed while you take a quick swipe on your smartphone and by the time you’re out of the bed, coffee is already there!

It’s an awesome way obviously to start your day courtesy of technology. There are a couple of brands here in Kenya with this feature. The connected coffee maker has an app that’s installed on your phone and might be linked with smart assistants such as Alexa, Google assistant or Siri to initiate certain functions.

It also comes equipped with smart features such as temperature control and responds to your voice commands to initiate pre-soak time, brewing temperature, and a few other precision brewing features. You can as well manage most of these features through a mobile application.

  • Tablet Stand

Do you ever wonder how those small bruises on your tablet, computer or phone ever got there? Certain covers might mitigate careless placements of these important tech gadget on various kitchen surfaces but the sure way that would also protect from accidental falls is using proper stands such as a tablet stand.

With appropriate tablet stands, you can easily mount your best kitchen companion and avoid accidental falls or un necessary bruises. Look out for stands that are easily foldable to be placed inside drawers and can accommodate various devices such as tablets, phones and even laptops.

  • Stylus

Some stands might be offered alongside a stylus so you won’t have to touch the tablet screen with your sticky fingers. However, in case the stand you bought didn’t offer one, feel free to purchase the stylus separately. A stylus is very essential to make sure your sticky fingers do not mess up the screen.

  • Smart Fridge

For those of us who are keen to do window shopping in big supermarkets might have come across this. A smart fridge with all the display glory that showcases your calendar, shopping list and temperature. The smart features on a fridge can easily revolutionize the way you conduct yourself in the kitchen. From adding shopping list items with your voice to play some of your favorite music, it basically adds a touch of perfection in your kitchen.

  • Automatic Lid Opener

Though not popularly used here in Kenya, an automatic lid opener has become one of the smart kitchen essentials. You really don’t have to struggle with tight lids especially for senior citizens while there’s a simple smart appliance than can easily accomplish without any issues.

Local and International smart TV channels you could Live stream here in Kenya

There are several factors why someone would prefer to purchase television sets meeting certain specifications; for once, its now obsolete to consider analogue panels since we do not have channels broadcasting on the dated technology any more, unless of course you have a decoder to do the magic. While most of us would like to get the latest and greatest in tech, we should also acknowledge that not everything that comes out will prove beneficial to everyone.

Take for example someone in rural areas who doesn’t have access to any form of internet, it’s inexplicable to imagine such a person opting for a smart TV especially if his resources are not bountiful to overlook differences in costs. The same way it would be a grave mistake for someone in the city to ignore the capabilities of latest technology in TV’s especially if he intents to utilize internet-based applications.

Difference between a smart TV and a digital TV

Beyond the looks which might be undistinguishable between smart and digital TV’s the only factor separating the two is the capability to connect to the internet and effectively have access to online based applications.

Digital televisions can receive channels broadcasted on the digital terrestrial platform such as signet, bamba, pang without needing a digital decoder. On the other hand, Smart TV’s have the ability to connect to the internet, allow users to download and install applications and go as far as streaming content over the internet such as Netflix, Prime Video and Showmax. To accomplish the same capabilities on a digital only set, you’d need a smart box or dongle such as Safaricom’s android box, Apple TV or Amazon’s Fire stick.

Channels you could stream on your Smart TV here in Kenya

There are several streaming services you could subscribe to here in Kenya such as Netflix and Prime Video; however, these services are pretty limited to providing on-demand content rather than live streaming TV such as sporting events with exception of a few.

  • All Dstv Channels.

If you’re looking for an easier way to stream HD quality channels on your smart TV, then I suggest considering Dstv. Up until recently, Dstv Kenya customers can link their accounts to their respective smart TV’s by downloading an app such as android TV, Apple TV and LG’s content store on WebOS.

  • Aljazeera English

If you like staying updated with international affairs, then you might want to try out Aljazeera. It offers international coverage of current News and doesn’t require a subscription. All you have to do is download the app on Android TV or Apple TV.

  • Showmax

For those of us who have an active showmax subscription, you could take advantage of their Live channels that broadcast News and sporting events.

  • France 24.

Based in France, France 24 is also a worthy alternative to get unbiased international News coverage. You also need to download the app from respective app stores.

  • Bloomberg

It’s surprising that this channel is often packaged on the most premium bouquets of the current pay tv providers in Kenya while you could easily just download the app and start enjoying quality business and tech insights across the world.

  • NHK

Also falling within International News channels but NHK is a bit unique since its based in Japan and mostly focuses on Japanese interests. You won’t be asked for payment to view this channel.

  • CBN Family

Christian focused with very interesting preaching that most Christians will find exhilarating. This is a place to be if you want to grow your faith in Christianity. Completely free to watch

  • DW

Based in German but with some interesting international News coverage on current affairs as well and business. This one is also offered without any subscription costs

These are just but a few online streaming channels that you could watch on your smart TV. If you have a VPN on your Smart TV, then there’s plenty of channels that are currently Geo-restricted that can be unlocked and watched from anywhere.

How to purchase Telkom Kenya bundles from MPESA through Pay Bill number

Telkom Kenya has some of the most attractive data bundles that are more affordable than what we get on Safaricom; in fact, some of us have become used to the idea of owning more than one SIM card from available mobile service providers for various reasons. While I might keep my Safaricom SIM so that I don’t miss out on MPESA services, I always have Telkom for data and Airtel comes in handy in making those international calls.

Telkom Kenya unveiled a more convenient way that subscribers who use MPESA services can easily purchase airtime for their mobile phones using a Paybill number. While the process is straight forward for those who want to use airtime, you’ll need to purchase data bundles once airtime has been credited on your account from Safaricom.

There is a simpler way to directly purchase data bundles for your Telkom number from MPESA, though you must be on an active data subscription. This basically means you must have opted into one of Telkom’s recurring data plans such as daily subscription.

How to Purchase Telkom data bundles from MPESA

  • The process is similar to how you can purchase airtime for your Telkom line from MPESA
  • On your MPESA menu, tap on Lipa na MPESA
  • Enter Telkom MPESA PayBill number: 777711
  • Put your Telkom number as account
  • Enter the amount you want to transfer
  • Then confirm the transaction
  • Once airtime has been credited on your Telkom SIM, dial *544# and subscribe to any of the available data plans

For those with an active recurring data plan such as daily data subscription, all you have to do is purchase the correct amount of credit once your plan is due from MPESA by using paybill number 777711 and your Telkom number as account number.

Your plan will be automatically renewed once there’s sufficient airtime to do so.

How to retrieve your last purchased KPLC tokens on your phone in case you didn’t receive a text

A common issue faced by majority of Kenyans on KPLC’s prepaid platform often emanates when someone faithfully buys token using various methods such as MPESA but fail to get the token message from the power utility provider. This can happen as a result of varying reasons such as technical hitches on the KPLC’s side or maybe your phone somehow failed to receive the message for reasons specific to the phone or an issue with the service provider. Either way, Kenya Power has finally provided an ample method you could retrieve up to three (3) of your last purchased tokens.

Quick Summary:

  • Frustration ensues when purchased KPLC tokens don’t deliver due to technical issues or phone-related problems.
  • Kenya Power offers a convenient USSD code solution, eliminating the need for a smartphone or internet connection.
  • Retrieving your last three tokens is as easy as dialing *977# and following a few simple steps.

Unlocking Solutions: Retrieving Your KPLC Tokens

The process to retrieve your last purchased tokens is based on a USSD code, meaning you don’t have to use a smartphone, neither do you need internet connection. With a simple mobile phone that has enough credit to access the service, you can easily access tokens from your previous purchase. All you need is your KPLC prepaid account number that is subject to the tokens to access purchased tokens in minutes.

Most city dwellers in Nairobi for example have usually purchased KPLC prepaid tokens using various methods such as MPESA, from mobile banking apps and so forth. And in most cases, these transactions are completed successfully with a text message being sent from the power utility company containing the specific token code to be entered in respective prepaid meters. However, in some rare instances, customers can purchase the service and end up waiting in vain for the text message to arrive. This has often prompted prepaid customers to initiate calls to the customer care center who mostly are busy and only in rare circumstances be reached.

Here is how to retrieve your last 3 purchased KPLC tokens

  1. Dial *977#: The process to retrieve your last purchased tokens is refreshingly uncomplicated. Grab your trusty mobile phone, whether it’s a smartphone or a basic device, as long as it has sufficient credit. Dial *977# to kickstart the process.
  2. Navigate to “Prepaid Services”: Once you’ve dialed the USSD code, you’ll be presented with a menu. Select “Prepaid Services” to access the array of services available.
  3. Choose “Latest Token”: Among the options presented, locate and select “Latest Token.” This step takes you closer to retrieving the much-needed information.
  4. Enter Your Prepaid Meter Account Number: To ensure precision, the system requires you to input your Prepaid meter account number. This vital piece of information is directly linked to the tokens you wish to access.
  5. Press “Send”: Complete the process by pressing the “Send” button. This action triggers the system to retrieve and present your last three purchased tokens within minutes.

Final Thoughts

In a world where technology occasionally falters, it’s reassuring to know that Kenya Power has streamlined the process of accessing your last purchased tokens. Whether you faced technical hitches or your phone played hard to get with the token message, the USSD code *977# offers a reliable solution. Embrace the simplicity, dial, and reclaim control over your prepaid tokens without the unnecessary hassle.

Safaricom announces Ksh. 6,999 Ematic DV8235 android TV Box

Safaricom has unveiled android powered TV box that’s expected to expand its home fibre services to more homes. The android box can enable TV’s to stream content from Netflix, YouTube, ShowMax, Hulu, Sling amongst other android TV applications. In addition, users will be able to wirelessly project their smartphones as well as laptops to their TV sets through screen casting.

Speaking on the launch, Safaricom’s CEO Peter Ndegwa said the Home Fibre service had been well received thanks to its unlimited internet connectivity for families in an affordable, monthly package. Ndegwa further acknowledged that the TV remained central to home entertainment and due to lack of a feature that would directly stream content from the internet most potential families had stayed away from the service. Thanks to the latest launch, Safaricom will now be able to empower homes to connect any TV to the internet opening up endless entertainment options for family, Ndegwa stated.

Customers can purchase the Android TV box from Safaricom shops as well as on Masoko for Ksh. 6,999 with no hidden monthly costs. Connecting the box to your TV shouldn’t be an issue as no technical skills are required and is plug and play. You’ll therefore not require a technician for the exercise. The box can support video resolutions of up to 4K.

Since the Ematic DV8235 runs on android OS, users can easily initiate several actions by voice commands including searching for shows, movies or apps. Additionally, it can be configured to connect to a Home Fibre WiFi network. Users will also be able to play recorded movies, TV shows as well as photos through USB flash disks and MicroSD Memory Cards.

According to reports, the telco had seen an upsurge in demand of home fibre services and had responded by acquiring more personnel as well as expanding its home fibre services to more areas. Kenyans can opt in for the Safaricom’s internet service by dialing *400# and subscribe to any of the three packages including Bronze, Silver and Diamond tailored to support light, medium and heavy usage respectively.

Safaricom android TV box specifications – Ematic DV8235

  • Android TV version: (9.0)
  • Certification: Google and Netflix
  • Video Resolution: 4K (Ultra HD)
  • SoC: Amlogic S905X: A quad core ARM Cortex A53
  • CPU: ARM Quad 64-bit Cortex-A53 up to 1.5GHz
  • GPU: Penta Core Mali-450 up to 750MHz +(DFS)
  • DRAM: DDR3 2GB
  • Flash: eMMC 8GB
  • Bluetooth 4.2
  • DRM – Playready, Widevine
  • Size(L*W*H) – 100mm*100mm*23.5mm
  • Dual-band Wi-Fi 802.11 ac/b/g/n
  • Interfaces / Ports : 2 x USB 2.0 ports, 1 X TF (MicroSD) card slot, 1 X HDMI 2.0a port, 1 x 10/100 Ethernet (RJ45) port