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Which is the best music streaming service to choose here in kenya between Spotify and Apple Music?

Alright, let’s dive into the battle of the beats! Today, we’re comparing two heavyweight music streaming champions: Spotify and Apple Music. These platforms are here to satisfy your musical cravings and keep your ears entertained. So, let’s dig in and see which one comes out on top.

First up, let’s talk cold hard cash. In Kenya, Spotify has a trio of subscription plans ready to rock your world. They’ve got a free version with a sprinkle of ads to keep you on your toes. If you’re willing to splurge a bit, their Premium plan will set you back KES. 199 per month, giving you access to all their content, ad-free listening, offline playback, and the sweet power to play music on demand. But wait, there’s more! If you want to gather your musical squad, they’ve got the Premium Family plan for KES. 249 per month, allowing up to six people to groove together and share a single account. With this plan, you can even create and share playlists with your beloved family members. Talk about a musical family reunion!

Now, let’s tune in to Apple Music. They’ve got a single subscription plan for KES. 199 per month, giving you a one-way ticket to their vast music collection. With this plan, you get ad-free listening, offline playback, and the freedom to play whatever tunes make your heart sing. But Apple Music isn’t stopping there. They’ve got a discounted student plan for the wise scholars out there, priced at KES. 99 per month. And for those who want to groove together, they offer a discounted family plan for KES. 249 per month, where you and your squad can enjoy the beats as one.

Now, let’s jam on to the features. Both Spotify and Apple Music offer a smorgasbord of options to satisfy your music cravings. They’ve got a treasure trove of songs, albums, and playlists that you can stream whenever your heart desires. Plus, they’ll use their magical algorithms to serve up personalized recommendations based on your listening history. It’s like having your very own DJ, tailoring the tunes just for you. And hey, don’t forget that you can create and share playlists with others. It’s like being the captain of your own musical ship, charting the perfect course through the vast sea of songs.

But here’s where things get interesting. Apple Music brings some exclusive content to the party. They’ve got albums and songs that you won’t find on any other streaming service. It’s like having a VIP pass to a secret musical world. And some of these exclusives are only available for a limited time, so you gotta act fast to catch ’em. Spotify, on the other hand, doesn’t offer exclusive content. They’re all about giving you access to a wide range of music without any fancy VIP restrictions.

And let’s not forget about podcasts! Both Spotify and Apple Music have a podcast extravaganza waiting for you. But Apple Music takes the crown in this category, with a larger selection of podcasts, including many exclusive shows. So, if you’re a podcast aficionado, that might tilt the scales in Apple Music’s favor.

In the end, it’s a tough choice. Both Spotify and Apple Music are music powerhouses with their own unique charms. Spotify offers a free option, along with their paid plans, and Apple Music focuses on a single paid subscription plan. Apple Music boasts exclusive content and a broader selection of podcasts, while Spotify tends to be a bit more budget-friendly. It all comes down to your personal needs and the tunes that make your soul dance.

So, my fellow music enthusiasts, choose your streaming companion wisely and let the melodies transport you to new dimensions. Whether you go for Spotify’s jam-packed offerings or Apple Music’s exclusive goodies, get ready to lose yourself in the rhythm. Happy streaming!

Looking to upgrade your PC with an SSD? Here are differences between m.2 and 2.5 inch form factors

Solid State Drives (SSDs) are a type of storage device that uses flash memory to store data, rather than a spinning hard drive. They are faster, more durable, and more energy-efficient than traditional hard drives, making them a popular choice for those looking to upgrade their storage. There are two main types of SSDs: M.2 and 2.5-inch. Here’s a look at the differences between the two:

  1. Form factor: The main difference between M.2 and 2.5-inch SSDs is their form factor, or physical size and shape. M.2 SSDs are smaller and thinner than 2.5-inch SSDs, making them more compact and easier to install in smaller devices. 2.5-inch SSDs, on the other hand, are larger and have a traditional hard drive-like form factor.
  2. Connectivity: M.2 SSDs use a different type of connector than 2.5-inch SSDs, which impacts how they connect to your device. M.2 SSDs use a PCI Express (PCIe) connection, which allows them to transfer data faster than a traditional SATA connection. 2.5-inch SSDs, on the other hand, use a SATA connection, which is slower but still provides faster speeds than a traditional hard drive.
  3. Compatibility: Because of the differences in form factor and connectivity, M.2 and 2.5-inch SSDs may not be compatible with all devices. M.2 SSDs are typically used in laptops and small form factor desktop PCs, while 2.5-inch SSDs are more commonly used in larger desktop PCs and servers. It’s important to check the compatibility of your device before purchasing an SSD to ensure it will work properly.
  4. Performance: In terms of performance, M.2 and 2.5-inch SSDs are generally similar, with both offering faster speeds than traditional hard drives. However, M.2 SSDs may offer slightly faster speeds due to their use of a PCIe connection.
  5. Price: The price of M.2 and 2.5-inch SSDs can vary depending on the capacity and brand. In general, M.2 SSDs may be slightly more expensive due to their smaller size and faster performance.

Ultimately, the choice between an M.2 and 2.5-inch SSD will depend on your needs and the compatibility of your device. Both offer fast performance and durability, but M.2 SSDs may be a better fit for those looking for a compact, high-performance storage solution.

The most important things to consider before buying a smartphone in 2023

Alright, fellow tech enthusiasts, let’s dive into the wild world of smartphones! Choosing the perfect device can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack, but fear not, I’m here to lend a hand. So, let’s explore some crucial factors that will help you make an informed decision before swiping that credit card.

First up, we have the operating system. It’s like the heart and soul of your smartphone. iOS, the lovechild of Apple, or Android, the versatile champ used by a variety of brands? Each has its own vibe, apps, and features, so pick the one that tickles your fancy and suits your digital lifestyle. It’s like choosing between two delectable ice cream flavors. Chocolate or strawberry? The choice is yours.

Next, let’s talk about the brain of your smartphone—the processor. It’s the power behind the scenes, making everything run smoothly. A faster processor means a snappier experience, like zooming down a race track without a hitch. So, keep an eye out for the latest and greatest processors that pack a punch, ensuring your smartphone can handle anything you throw at it.

Ah, the display, where all the magic happens! Picture this: a high-resolution display that paints a vivid and captivating world right in front of your eyes. It’s like upgrading from a regular TV to an IMAX theater. Big or small, the choice is yours. But remember, a larger display might make your thumb feel like it’s on a stretching exercise, so choose a size that fits your hand like a glove.

Now, let’s talk storage. We all know how it feels to be crammed for space, so make sure your smartphone has enough storage to hold all your precious memories. A phone with at least 64GB is like having a spacious mansion for your apps, music, photos, and videos. But if you’re a digital hoarder, fear not! Look for a phone with expandable storage, so you can keep collecting without worrying about space constraints. It’s like having your own personal storage locker that you can fill to your heart’s content.

Say cheese! The camera is a make-or-break feature for many. If you’re a photography enthusiast, you want a phone with a stellar camera that can capture every breathtaking moment. Look for high-resolution lenses, fancy features like optical image stabilization to keep your shots steady, and HDR for that extra punch. With the right camera, you’ll be capturing memories like a pro.

Battery life, my friends, is the unsung hero of our smartphone adventures. A phone with long-lasting battery life is like having a trusty sidekick that keeps going and going. No more frantic searches for outlets or portable chargers. And hey, fast charging is like having a secret weapon in your pocket. When your battery runs low, it swoops in like a superhero, bringing your phone back to life in no time.

Last but not least, we must consider the price. Ah, the budget. The thing that keeps us grounded in reality. Fear not, for there are smartphones available for every wallet size. Determine how much you’re willing to shell out and find a phone that fits within your financial boundaries. Remember, you don’t need to break the bank to find a gem that suits your needs.

So, my friends, armed with these considerations, you’re now ready to embark on your smartphone quest. May you find the device that becomes your trusty companion, your digital sidekick in this crazy world. Happy hunting, and may your future selfies be ever flawless!

Government Announces eCitizen Digital Payment Platform for All Services

Big news on the digital frontier! The government has declared that it’s time to bring all payments for government services into the 21st century. Say goodbye to those long queues and hello to the eCitizen digital payment platform!

Picture this: you need to pay for a government service, be it your shiny new passport or that pesky parking fine. Instead of fumbling around with cash or standing in line forever, you can now make your payments through the official paybill number 222222. Easy peasy, right? Treasury Cabinet Secretary Njuguna Ndung’u is all about making our lives simpler and more convenient, and this Digital Payments Programme is his brainchild.

So, how does it work? Well, according to the wise words of Prof Ndung’u in a Gazette notice (that’s a fancy way of saying official announcement), the government has come up with the eCitizen.go.ke Digital Payments Platform. This nifty platform allows us citizens and everyone else to pay for government services hassle-free. No more running around with pockets full of cash or searching for the right office to make your payment. It’s all digital, my friends!

Now, you’re probably wondering how you can get in on this digital payment action. Fear not! The government’s got you covered. The eCitizen digital payment platform will have an official paybill short code number 222 and a USSD number 2222. To use this fancy platform, you’ll need your unique identification number handy. Citizens, whip out that national identity card, and foreigners, don’t forget your alien identity card. Companies, institutions, and organizations will need to use their official registration number as their special identifier. It’s like having your own secret code to unlock the wonders of digital payments!

But wait, there’s more! To make your life even easier, you can access the eCitizen digital payment platform using the Kenya Government Pay Bill number 222222, short code number 222, or USSD number 2222. It’s like having a secret backdoor to the world of government payments. Sneaky, right?

Our president, William Ruto, has been talking the talk about digitizing government services, and now he’s walking the walk. The eCitizen digital payment platform is a big step towards fulfilling his promise. We’re talking about making government services available online, folks! No more waiting in never-ending lines or rushing to beat the closing time. With a few taps on your phone, you’ll have access to a whopping 5,000 services through this digital wonderland. It’s like having a virtual government office in your pocket!

Xiaomi Mi Band 7 is undoubtedly one of the best fitness trackers of 2022 that’s available in Kenya

Fitness enthusiasts! Brace yourselves for the Xiaomi Smart Band 7, the latest addition to the Mi Band family. This bad boy shares many similarities with its predecessor, the Mi Band 6, but with a twist. It’s like the cool older sibling who got a glow-up and some fancy new features.

Let’s start with the visual appeal, shall we? The Smart Band 7 rocks a larger 1.62-inch AMOLED display, making it easier to read your stats and notifications without squinting like a confused mole. But wait, there’s more! It also has an always-on display function, so you can flaunt your fitness prowess even when your wrist is lazily resting on the couch. It’s like a constant reminder to get off your tush and move those glorious muscles!

Now, let’s talk about the upgrades. Xiaomi has amped up the Smart Band 7 with continuous blood oxygen monitoring. No more gasping for breath wondering if you’re getting enough oxygen. This band has your back, or should I say wrist? Plus, they’ve thrown in a bigger battery for good measure, so you can keep track of your fitness goals without worrying about charging every other day. Talk about convenience!

But fear not, my friends, because the Smart Band 7 retains all the fantastic features that made its predecessors so popular. It’s still water-resistant up to 5ATM, so you can take it for a swim without turning it into a soggy mess. And let’s not forget about the extensive list of workout modes. With over 110 sports modes, you’ll have no excuse for skipping that yoga session or dance class. The band is your personal cheerleader, encouraging you to break a sweat and reach new fitness heights.

Xiaomi Mi Band 7

Now, let’s address a couple of quirks. The Smart Band 7 doesn’t offer integration with a digital assistant, so you won’t be chatting it up with Alexa or Google Assistant on your wrist. And while it can display notifications, you can’t actually interact with them on the band itself. You’ll still need to whip out your trusty phone to reply to those urgent messages. But hey, no one’s perfect, right?

Oh, and remember those rumors about the band supporting payments? Well, unfortunately, that’s not the case with the global version. It’s a bummer, but hey, at least you won’t accidentally buy a round of drinks with a misplaced swipe of your wrist.

Setting up the Smart Band 7 is a breeze. You have the Xiaomi Mi Fitness app or the rebranded Zepp Life app (formerly known as Mi Fit) at your disposal. Take your pick, they both get the job done. Just keep in mind that you might need to spend a bit of time customizing the functions to your liking. But hey, personalization is the spice of life, right?

Now, let’s talk price and availability. The Xiaomi Mi Band 7 is available in various retail stores across Kenya. So, if you’re ready to take your fitness game to the next level, head on over and grab one of these bad boys. Your wrist will thank you!

Remember, folks, it’s not just a fitness tracker. It’s a stylish companion on your journey to a healthier you. So strap on that Smart Band 7, break a sweat, and show the world what you’re made of!

Price and availability

Xiaomi Mi band 7 is available in Kenya are various retail stores at KES 7,000.

NCBA Bank Implements Fees for M-PESA and Airtel Money Transfers Starting in January 2023

Well, well, well, it seems like the era of free transfers to mobile wallets in Kenya is coming to an end. Just when we thought we were catching a break from those pesky fees, the Central Bank of Kenya has decided to reinstate them. Starting January 2023, you’ll have to dig a little deeper into your pockets if you want to transfer money to your beloved mobile wallets like MPESA and Airtel Money.

Now, I know what you’re thinking. Why, oh why, Central Bank, did you have to bring back those fees?” It’s like that unexpected bill that arrives just when you thought you had some extra cash to treat yourself. But hey, let’s try to see the bright side of things. Maybe this move will help the banks recover from the financial blows they took during the pandemic. After all, weaker profits are never a fun thing to deal with. And who knows, maybe they’ll use some of that money to invest in those nifty new banking technologies we keep hearing about.

But let’s get down to the nitty-gritty. Starting January 1, 2023, those transfers to mobile money wallets will no longer be a free ride. Nope, they’ll be subject to a fee. The NCBA Bank, always one to provide the details, has already laid out the specifics of these fees. So, make sure you’re up to date and plan accordingly when you’re sending money through your favorite mobile wallet.

Now, let’s not forget the context here. These fees were actually suspended during the COVID-19 pandemic to ease the burden on us Kenyans. It was like a little gift in the midst of all the chaos. But, alas, all good things must come to an end, it seems. The banks have requested the reinstatement of these fees, and the Central Bank has given them the green light. So, starting next year, we’ll have to adjust our expectations and budgets accordingly.

But hey, don’t let those fees dampen your mobile money spirit. MPESA and Airtel Money have been our trusty sidekicks for years, making our lives so much more convenient. And let’s be real, a little fee here and there won’t break the bank (pun intended). It’s like the price we pay for the convenience and security these mobile wallets provide.

So, my fellow Kenyans, let’s brace ourselves for the fee era. It’s not the most exciting news, but hey, we’ll adapt and keep on thriving. After all, we’ve faced tougher challenges, haven’t we? So, mark your calendars, January 1, 2023, is the day when those fees kick in. Until then, let’s enjoy our fee-free transfers while we still can. And who knows, maybe they’ll surprise us with some awesome new features to make up for it. Fingers crossed!

In the meantime, let’s keep embracing the wonders of mobile money and find joy in the little things. Like that feeling when you successfully transfer money with just a few taps on your phone. It’s like magic, my friends. Pure magic.

NCBA to MPESA and Airtel Money fees

Tariffs (KES)To M-PESA in KESTo Airtel Money in KES
1-10000
101-5001011
501-10001218
1001-15001420
1501-25002325
2501-35003335
3501-50004345
5001-75005555
7501-20,0006565
20,001-150,5006765
NCBA to MPESA, Airtel Money Rates

How to Choose the Best Bookmaker?

The competition among online betting sites in South Africa is always boiling. This is due to the rivalry between operators trying to grow their audiences and attract more players. Such a situation creates a positive domain for bettors as they constantly get a chance to enjoy better services from various bookmakers.

If you need help deciding which sportsbook is most suited for your needs, keep reading our guide on how to find and choose the best sites.

Key Points to Look Out For

There are several sportsbook segments that operators keep improving to increase their player base. Those include a selection of sports to bet on, the implementation of additional features like live betting, advanced search bars, exclusive promotions, or adding more competitions, matches, and events.

These are some of the bigger characteristics you should look after when trying to find the best bookmakers online. However, all of these go deeper in terms of attributes, which we will discuss in addition.

Welcome Offers

Welcome deals are one of the first things players check for at any sportsbook. These promotions come in many shapes and sizes but most often give out reloads for deposits of different amounts.

You can also claim free bets with a value between £20 and £100 or more, credits for a loyalty or VIP program if the operator offers one, and other benefits.

Remember to check the terms and conditions attached to these deals, as any winning potential may be decreased if the operator features high wagering requirements.

Check the Odds

Although all bookmakers offer odds for similar events, they might vary significantly. If you’re only going to register with one bookmaker, be sure they consistently provide the greatest odds for the kinds of wagers you wish to place. You will diminish your return on investment and any gambling winnings if the odds are not in your favor.

It’s also good to consider diversifying your betting portfolio and placing multiple wagers at different sportsbooks. This will allow you to exploit different operators’ benefits and take advantage of multiple bonuses for the same sporting events.

License & Security

The license speaks volumes about the operator’s dedication and the gaming environment in general. This is why players must always do a background check and see if the platform they want to register at has a legitimate license.

Additionally, you can check the bookmaker’s extra credentials and safety certificates from third-party authorities and the employment of the latest encryption technologies.

Banking

The banking section is of great importance as the methods it features determine how safe your money is on the betting account. It’s best to check the variety of available deposit and withdrawal methods, whether or not you can use credit cards, e-wallets, cryptocurrencies, and so on.

You should also request information about their processing times, maximum and minimum limits, and additional fees since they will determine how fast and how much you can cash out from your winnings.

Conclusion

Make sure to do your homework and review as many important attributes as possible before registering and betting on any online sportsbook. The vast competition often inspires bookmakers to improve their services, but your primary factor when choosing the best site should be your own preferences.

Read as many reviews as possible, check comments from real users, and use our guide to inspect the sportsbook before you make an account.

How to get Premium Boomplay subscription and Safaricom data bundles at discounted/ almost free rates

Guess what, music lovers in Kenya? Safaricom, our trusty telecommunications company, has teamed up with Boomplay, the popular music streaming service, to bring you some sweet, sweet deals. This partnership is like a match made in music heaven, giving Safaricom’s customers access to Boomplay’s extensive library of over 85 million tracks and podcasts from local and international artists at discounted rates. Can I get a virtual high-five for that?

Now, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of these fantastic bundles. Safaricom’s customers can now subscribe to daily, weekly, and monthly bundles that will let them groove to their favorite tunes without breaking the bank. And guess what? These bundles even come with free data! That’s right, folks, you can stream music to your heart’s content without worrying about using up your precious data allowance. It’s like a music lover’s dream come true.

So, what are these magical bundles all about? Well, let me break it down for you. For just KES 20 a day, you can grab a daily bundle that comes with 50MB of free data. That’s like having your own personal concert in your pocket for the price of a cup of coffee. Not bad, huh? But wait, there’s more! For KES 120 a week, you’ll get a bundle that includes 300MB of free data. That’s enough music to keep you grooving through the weekdays and into the weekend.

But hold on to your hats, because the best is yet to come. Safaricom’s monthly bundle is an absolute steal at just KES 299. With this bundle, you’ll not only get to enjoy the music streaming goodness but also receive a whopping 1.5GB of free data. That’s like having a personal music festival in your hands, all month long. Talk about a deal that will make your heart sing.

And let’s not forget what the big shots have to say about this exciting partnership. Safaricom’s CEO, Peter Ndegwa, emphasized their commitment to providing affordable digital services to Kenyans, making it easier for everyone to embrace the digital lifestyle. Martha Huro, the Managing Director for East Africa at Boomplay, expressed her enthusiasm for creating a sustainable digital music ecosystem and bringing entertainment to millions of Kenyans.

Now, you’re probably itching to know how to get your hands on these incredible Boomplay Premium subscriptions at rock-bottom rates, right? Well, it’s as easy as pie. Safaricom customers in Kenya can purchase these discounted bundles through the Safaricom App, safaricom.com, or by dialing 5446# and selecting option 5 – Boomplay. Payment can be made using airtime or M-PESA, and once you’ve successfully completed the transaction, you’ll receive an SMS confirmation. And voila! You’ll be ready to enjoy the wonders of Boomplay, streaming your favorite songs and podcasts without annoying ads and with unlimited downloads.

So, my music-loving friends, get ready to let the melodies flow through your ears and dance to the rhythm of life. Thanks to Safaricom and Boomplay, you can now enjoy the music you love at discounted rates. It’s time to turn up the volume and embrace the joy of music with every beat. Happy streaming!