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Xiaomi 12 Series Redefines Flagship Category

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Xiaomi today announced the launch of the all-new flagship Xiaomi 12 Series for local markets, featuring two groundbreaking devices: Xiaomi 12 Pro and Xiaomi 12. Designed to empower users around the world with a cutting-edge videography studio and entertainment powerhouse, Xiaomi 12 Series delivers impressive advancements in Xiaomi’s AI algorithm, flagship processing power, and an all-round elevated experience. 

Capture cinematic shots at any time 

Xiaomi 12 Series enables users to record studio-quality shots no matter the scenario, be it challenging lighting conditions or moving objects. Both phones boast a pro-grade triple camera array for versatile shooting, starring a massive 50MP main wide angle camera, with 8K recording capabilities on both Xiaomi 12 Pro and Xiaomi 12.  Xiaomi 12 Pro stands out with its state-of-the-art triple 50MP array, which features a cutting-edge Sony IMX707 ultra-large main sensor. This sensor is capable of catching large amounts of light and empowers advanced imaging capabilities with faster focus speeds and increased color accuracy. Xiaomi 12 features a 13MP ultra-wide angle camera, along with a 5MP tele macro camera, for filming life from different perspectives.  

Beyond impressive hardware, Xiaomi 12 Pro and Xiaomi 12 also advance Xiaomi’s proprietary AI algorithms. These innovations make it easier than ever for users to record every moment the way they want to, even in low-light or moving subjects. Xiaomi ProFocus intelligently identifies and tracks objects, preventing blurring or out-of-focus shots of moving or veiled subjects. These advancements also include eye and face auto focus capabilities. Ultra Night Video uses Xiaomi’s proprietary algorithms to record video even under extreme low-light, meaning moody, atmospheric shots are clearer than ever.  

Available on both devices, One-click AI Cinema offers numerous creative options for show-stopping video editing, such as Parallel World, Freeze Frame Video, and Magic Zoom modes. 

Flagship processing, unprecedented performance and power-efficiency  

Flagship experience requires flagship performance. Xiaomi 12 Series features advanced Qualcomm® Snapdragon™ mobile platforms. Xiaomi 12 Pro and Xiaomi 12 boast a Snapdragon® 8 Gen 1 processor – Qualcomm’s most advanced mobile platform. Built on a 4nm process, this processor also boosts GPU graphic rendering capabilities by 30% and energy efficiency by 25% when compared to the previous generation. Both three devices come with UFS 3.1 exceptional loading and data transfer speeds, along with LPDDR5 RAM for memory speeds up to 6,400Mbps. For optimal product experience, Xiaomi 12 Series packs a high-performing cooling system, bolstered by a super-large vapor chamber and multiple layers of graphite to offer a leadingcooling capability. 

All-around elevated entertainment experiences 

Xiaomi 12 Series not only lets users capture every moment in exquisite detail, but also allows them to relive those moments in astonishing detail via an exceptional entertainment experience.  Both devices offer vivid viewing on an AMOLED Dot Display rated A+ by DisplayMate, and with TrueColor support. For added peace of mind, the display features scratch-resistant Corning® Gorilla® Glass Victus®, and supports Dolby Vision®, industry’s leading imaging technology that brings your content to life with vibrant color and details. Xiaomi 12 Series also supports HDR 10+. Xiaomi 12 Pro is SGS Eye Care Display Certified, showing care for users’ long-term visual health during marathon sessions.  

Meanwhile, Xiaomi 12 Pro redefines flagship display with incredibly smooth viewing, scrolling, swiping, and sliding. The device’s highly power-efficient 6.73-inch WQHD+ display leverages AdaptiveSync Pro to intelligently adjust dynamic LTPO display between 1Hz and 120Hz based on content. 

Xiaomi 12 delivers Xiaomi’s most colorful smartphone display to date, with more than 68 billion colors on 6.28-inch full-HD+ displays. Both feature 120Hz AdaptiveSync, for an impressively high-definition, vibrant, and flicker-free display that conveys every detail.  

 No cinematic experience is truly complete without pro-grade audio. Xiaomi 12 Series features SOUND BY Harman Kardon, and creates an immersive audio experience powered by Dolby Atmos®, delivering spatial sound with rich detail, clarity, and realism across all your favorite entertainment. Xiaomi 12 Pro’s quad speakers – in the form of two tweeters and two woofers – deliver clear details and cover an astounding range of sound. Xiaomi 12 delivers balanced stereo sound ideal for immersive gaming or video.  To optimize core user experience further, Xiaomi 12 Series incorporates MIUI 13, released globally earlier this year. The update includes faster storage, higher background process efficiency, smarter processing, and longer battery life. New features in the upgraded experience include Xiaomi’s proprietary Liquid Storage, Atomized Memory, Focused Algorithms, and Smart Balance. 

Next-generation charging 

Xiaomi 12 Series delivers pro-grade cinematic and entertainment experiences all day, the devices deliver next-level charging speed and safety.  

 Xiaomi 12 Pro features an incredibly fast 120W Xiaomi HyperCharge. With a 4,600mAh battery fully charged in just 18 minutes using Boost mode, Xiaomi 12 Pro delivers next-generation charging capabilities that keep up with user demands.  Xiaomi 12 fits a 4,500mAh battery into compact body designs. Xiaomi 12 Pro and Xiaomi 12 also support 50W wireless charging and 10W reverse charging.  Both leverage Xiaomi AdaptiveCharge, a smart charging algorithm that learns and adapts to charging habits, which prolongs battery life. 

Flagship capabilities packaged in an iconic design  

These portable pocket-sized studios fit comfortably in the palm of your hand thanks to Xiaomi 12 Series’ iconic and user-centered design. Slimmer high-capacity batteries and a narrower ridge gap save precious space within the device. Xiaomi 12 Pro’s 6.73-inch display is encased in a sleek middle frame with sophisticated 3D curves. Meanwhile, Xiaomi 12’s 6.28-inch display measures just 69.9mm in width and is accented by smooth curves for a perfect fit. Both devices are available in Gray, Purple, and Blue. 

Market Availability   

Xiaomi 12 Pro comes in one variant 12GB+256GB, and recommended retail price starts from PKR 208,999/-.

Xiaomi 12 comes in one variant, 12GB+256GB, and recommended retail price starts from PKR 179,999/-.

Purchase these devices and get a sweet bundle deal where you get a Mi Band 6 and a bag with the Xiaomi 12. Similarly with the Xiaomi 12 Pro, get a Mi Portable Bluetooth Speaker and a 10000mAh Mi Power Bank 3.  Available at top distributor partners such as Phonezo, Airlink, Smartlink etc. For those looking to purchase these online, we’ve news for you  too as these are also available on MiStore and Daraz. 

Quick Specs:

 Xiaomi 12Xiaomi 12 Pro
Display120Hz +  AMOLED DotDisplay120Hz 6.73” AMOLED Dot Display 
Rear Camera50MP main camera 13MP ultra-wide camera 2MP macro camera 5MP depth camera50MP wide angle, ultra-wide and tele macro camera
Front Camera32MP32MP in-display selfie camera
Dimension & Weight152.70mm x 69.90mm x 8.16mm – 180g163.60mm x 74.60mm x 8.16mm 205g
ProcessorSnapdragon ® 8 Gen 1Snapdragon ®r 8 Gen 1
Charging4500mAH – 67W charge4600mAH – 120W charge
Variant12GB + 256GB12GB + 256GB
Color AvailableGray, Purple & BlueGray, Purple & Blue

About Xiaomi Corporation  

Xiaomi Corporation was founded in April 2010 and listed on the Main Board of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange on July 9, 2018 (1810.HK). Xiaomi is a consumer electronics and smart manufacturing company with smartphones and smart hardware connected by an IoT platform at its core.  

Embracing our vision of “Make friends with users and be the coolest company in the users’ hearts”, Xiaomi continuously pursues innovations, high-quality user experience and operational efficiency. The company relentlessly builds amazing products with honest prices to let everyone in the world enjoy a better life through innovative technology.  

Xiaomi is one of the world’s leading smartphone companies. The company’s market share in terms of smartphone shipments ranked no. 3 globally in the third quarter of 2021. The company has also established the world’s leading consumer AIoT (AI+IoT) platform, more than 400 million smart devices connected to its platform as of September 30, 2021, excluding smartphones and laptops. Xiaomi products are present in more than 100 countries and regions around the world. In August 2021, the company made the Fortune Global 500 list for the third time, ranking 338th, up 84 places compared to 2020.  

Xiaomi is a constituent of the Hang Seng Index, Hang Seng China Enterprises Index, Hang Seng TECH Index and Hang Seng China 50 Index. 

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TECNO to launch its new Spark phone in Pakistan soon

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TECNO to launch its new Spark phone in Pakistan soon

After massive success in the Pakistani Mobile market, TECNO is rumored to be preparing for a new addition to its Spark series. The globally eminent smartphone brand TECNO has been working tirelessly in Pakistan for quite some time now. The brand has brought forward some great phones over the years with advanced technologies, pocket-friendly prices, and stylish designs. 

Spark is TECNO’s famous mid-range series, bringing you quality devices at lower prices. Spark 8C is an entry mobile that is expected to be around PKR 19,499 to PKR 22,999. The price is not confirmed yet but we are expecting it around this segment. The phone is going to be a stunner in this range with Stylish Design and great Battery.

According to sources, Spark 8C will be equipped with better memory and memory fusion features than any other phone in this range. Memory Fusion Technology is specially designed to channel RAM operations by using unused read-only memory (ROM). This means it can expand the memory of 4+128GB to 7+128GB and that of 3+64GB into 6+64GB maximum. The RAM can be updated or expanded from 3GB to 6GB and 4GB to 7GB depending on the variant. If this is true, then Spark 8C shall be the only smartphone to provide such an amazing feature with 128GB in such an affordable price range.

Moreover, the phone is anticipated to provide efficient performance with a powerful processor and big battery. The 90Hz refresh rate, great display, and handy body design will make it a user-friendly device. The phone is expected to launch somewhere in mid-March 2022. Furthermore, the phone is being assembled in Pakistan to make it economical and pocket-friendly for the local consumers. 

So, fingers crossed for this new Spark device to be soon launched in Pakistan. Stay tuned for more updates and much more about tech!

Jazz appoints Atyab Tahir as CEO JazzCash

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Jazz appoints Atyab Tahir as CEO JazzCash

Jazz, Pakistan’s leading digital operator (part of VEON Group NASDAQ: VEON, Euronext Amsterdam: VEON), announces the appointment of Atyab Tahir as the CEO of JazzCash effective May 1 2022.

Atyab, currently serving as Country Manager MasterCard Pakistan & Afghanistan, has over two decades of international experience in banking and consulting. Atyab has also held senior positions at Fidelity Investments, HBL, Telenor Bank and easypaisa. He holds a BA from Dartmouth College and an MBA from Babson College.

Commenting on Atyab’s appointment Aamir Ibrahim, CEO, Jazz  said: “While mobile phones and payment solutions have accelerated financial inclusion in the country, a significant portion of Pakistan’s adult population remain unbanked. I am confident that under Atyab’s dynamic leadership JazzCash will help boost financial inclusion across the board through innovative and customer-centric products.”

JazzCash is at the forefront of Pakistan’s digital revolution processing more than 5 million transactions every day and accounting for almost 7% of Pakistan’s GDP. Our aim is to build a world-class fintech serving every single Pakistani, from youth, SMEs, freelancers, with a very strong focus on the unbanked and the underbanked. I look forward to joining the Jazz family and collaborating with our partners in the telecommunications and financial services sector to unlock the true potential of Digital Pakistan.” said Atyab.

A division of Jazz, JazzCash has grown rapidly to become a leader in the country’s marketplace for digital financial services. As shown in VEON Group’s FY21 results that were released on 28 February 2022, JazzCash has 15.2 million monthly active users (+24.9% YoY) and 130,800 monthly active merchants (up by 2.3 times YoY). 

Jazz appoints Atyab Tahir as CEO JazzCash.

vivo V23 5G — The Best in Camera, Technology, Performance and Appearance

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Due to the constant development in the technology space for smartphones, there is always hype surrounding any new ‘firsts’ in the market. There is always excitement as to what will be introduced and how well it will be accepted by the audience. 

Keeping this in mind, Vivo’s latest smartphone vivo V23 5G finds itself in a similar situation. The day it was announced, it received a lot of attention for its color-changing design. The design itself represents a significant advancement in smartphone research and design. Making smartphones not only technologically superior but also cosmetically superior is a step forward.

The continual excitement and experience since the smartphone’s launch has not only solidified its market position but also demonstrated that it is a well-balanced phone that isn’t only focused on aesthetics.

Delving more into the device, the vivo V23 5G dons a high-resolution 50MP AF Portrait Selfie camera on the front. This device focuses heavily on the selfie experience which makes it stand out in the market. The latest ISOCELL 3.0 technology helps the camera increase light sensitivity to capture a more crystal-clear picture for the user. Furthermore, the Eye Autofocus feature enables the users to be the center of attention while clicking the picture as the camera focuses on the user, even if they are in motion. 

The dual front camera system offers a much larger field of view with the help of its 8MP Super Wide-Angle Camera. Furthermore, with modes like the AI Extreme Night Portrait mode, the front camera delivers an unparalleled experience in this price range. The phone also sports a 64 MP main rear camera with an 8MP wide-angle lens and a 2MP Macro that can handle wide natural landscapes very easily. The user experience is further increased with features like the Super Night Mode, Bokeh Flare Portrait, and Ultra Stabilization. It is only right to say that both, the front camera and the rear camera together offer a device that is picture-perfect. 

When it comes to the visual and performance aspects of this phone, there’s no doubt that it’s the best of what vivo has to offer. vivo has always been on the cutting edge of device design and aesthetics. It’s also fair to say that Vivo takes pride in its technological advancements and innovations. Every device that vivo introduces exemplifies this completion.

V23 5G brings out the result of Vivo’s extensive research which is the Color Changing Fluorite AG Design. This material changes its color upon exposure to ultraviolet light and after about 30 seconds under the sun. This switch goes back to normal once the phone is out of sun exposure. Talking more about the appearance of the device, it is the combination of the Metal Flat Frame Design and the Color Changing Fluorite AG Design that gives the device the aesthetic appeal that has been the talk in the industry for a while now. 

All these powerful features that the phone flaunts are powered by the powerful MediaTek Dimensity 920 processor. This processor offers powerful performance and a fast user experience. The Extended RAM 2.0 further enhances the user experience with its versatile features to expand RAM when required. The 90Hz refresh rate display, a Liquid Cooling System, and Ultra Game Mode make it possible for users to enjoy super smooth gameplay performance. This experience is mutually assisted by the 4200mAh battery that features a 44W FlashCharge that helps in interrupted experience and performance. 

To summarise it all, the vivo V23 5G is a proud and well-balanced device that fulfills the requirements of every smartphone enthusiast whether it is for work, casual, or professional usage.

 

Tech Giant XIAOMI launches anticipated Redmi Note 11 Pro – Packing major upgraded to hardwares & software!

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Xiaomi announced the Redmi Note 11 Pro for Pakistani markets, pushing forward the legacy of the Redmi Note series with two all-new devices: Redmi Note 11 Pro and Redmi Note 11. Rising to the challenge to bring even stronger specs and features, Redmi Note 11 series packs powerful upgrades to its camera system, charging speed, display, and SoC—making flagship-level smartphone performance more accessible than before. All this available in a bundle deal, with Redmi Buds 3 completely free.

Flagship-level 108MP quad camera to deliver outstanding photography

Boasting a rear quad camera setup, Redmi Note 11 Pro delivers an outstanding photography experience with zero compromise. Its 108MP main camera captures stunning images in high-resolution and vivid colors; an 8MP ultra-wide angle camera extends your perspective with a 118-degree viewing angle; a 2MP macro camera that captures fine details up close and a 2MP depth sensor that’s for capturing more natural looking portrait shots. Accenting the front of the phone is a 16MP front camera that can capture clearer and natural-looking selfies. The 108MP pro-grade main camera utilizes the Samsung HM2 sensor with a large sensor size at 1/1.52 inch, and supports 9-in-1 pixel binning technology as well as a dual native ISO to deliver incredible images in all lighting conditions, with spectacular results especially in dim light.

120Hz FHD+ AMOLED DotDisplay packed into trendy flat-edge body

Featuring a large 6.67′ FHD+ AMOLED DotDisplay with 120Hz display refresh rate, Redmi Note 11 Pro levels up the screen experience with smooth scrolling response and lag-free transitions. The beautiful display is packed into a body with a trendy flat-edge design. Plus, with the dual super linear speakers located at the top and bottom of the phone, Redmi Note 11 offers immersive stereo sound for gaming or watching videos.

Performance powered by 67W turbo charging and MediaTek Helio G96

Redmi Note 11 Pro comes with flagship 67W turbo charging, allowing you to charge up

to 51% of its 5,000mAh high capacity battery in just 15 minutes Powered by MediaTek Helio G96, Redmi Note 11 Pro also delivers a smooth and seamless performance.

Market availability:

Redmi Note 11 Pro comes in two variants – 6GB+128GB, and 8GB+128GB and are available at top distributor partners such as Phonezo, Airlink Communication, Smartlink and Tech Sirat. For those looking to purchase these online, we’ve news for you  too as these are also available on MiStore.

Redmi Note 11 Pro

6GB+128GB: PKR 51,999/-

8GB+128GB: PKR 59,999/-

Redmi Note 11 Quick Specs:

 Redmi Note 11
Display120Hz  6.67” FHD+ AMOLED DotDisplay
Rear Camera108MP main camera 8MP ultra-wide camera 2MP macro camera 2MP depth camera
Front Camera16MP in-display front camera
Dimension & Weight164.19mm x 76.1mm x 8.12mm 202g
ProcessorMediaTek Helio G96
Charging5,000mAh (typ) battery Supports 67W wired Pro fast charging
Variant6GB+128GB, 8GB+128GB
Available ColorGraphite Gray, Polar White, Star Blue

The Redmi Note 11 Pro is available at PKR 51,999/- for the 6+128GB variant and PKR 59,999/- for the 8+128GB variant. A bundle deal with Redmi Buds 3 absolutely free!

About Xiaomi Corporation

Xiaomi Corporation was founded in April 2010 and listed on the Main Board of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange on July 9, 2018 (1810.HK). Xiaomi is a consumer electronics and smart manufacturing company with smartphones and smart hardware connected by an IoT platform at its core.

Embracing our vision of “Make friends with users and be the Coolest Company in the users’ hearts”, Xiaomi continuously pursues innovations, high-quality user experience and operational efficiency. The company relentlessly builds amazing products with honest prices to let everyone in the world enjoy a better life through innovative technology.

Xiaomi is one of the world’s leading smartphone companies. The company’s market share in terms of smartphone shipments ranked no. 3 globally in the third quarter of 2021. The company has also established the world’s leading consumer AIoT (AI+IoT) platform, more than 400 million smart devices connected to its platform as of September 30, 2021, excluding smartphones and laptops. Xiaomi products are present in more than 100 countries and regions around the world. In August 2021, the company made the Fortune Global 500 list for the third time, ranking 338th, up 84 places compared to 2020.

Xiaomi is a constituent of the Hang Seng Index, Hang Seng China Enterprises Index, Hang Seng TECH Index and Hang Seng China 50 Index.

People Walk on Road Due To Non Availability Of Transportation

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    People Walk on Road Due To Non Availability Of Transportation

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    Top Five Value-for-Money vivo Smartphones in Market

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    As one of the world’s leading global smartphone brands, vivo offers a wide range of smartphones that feature the latest technology and deliver an amazing user experience. It has three series: the X, V, and Y series, each with its own unique charms.

    The V series offers an excellent camera and a world-class design, which have contributed to its considerable popularity. Smartphones in the Y series are designed for young consumers and have smooth and powerful performance. Last but not least by any means, is the X series, which has been developed in collaboration with ZEISS, a global leader in imaging and optics, to ensure professional-level imaging, photography, and videography. Below are the five best phones by the brand currently available in the country from these three series.
    vivo X80
    This is one of the brand’s most beloved flagship devices, setting high standards for smartphones. There are three rear cameras: a 50MP Ultra-Sensing Sensor Camera, a 12MP Portrait Camera, and a 12MP Wide-Angle Camera, ensuring breath-taking images every time. It also comes with a 32MP front camera that enhances selfies. The device is powered by a Media Tek Dimensity 9000 processor that offers efficient performance without lags. Its large 4500mAh battery with 80W Flash Charge is fully rechargeable in 35 minutes, enabling the consumer to use it hassle-free. The X80 also features a powerful V1+ Chip, which increases the device’s imaging, gaming, and visual capabilities.

    vivo V23 5G

    There are several features that make the V23 5G stand out from other smartphones, one of which is its Color Changing Fluorite AG Design technology which allows the device to change colours under direct sunlight. The unique feature makes it perfect for fashion conscious trendy consumers who are always on top of their style game. Additionally, the smartphone is equipped with a 50MP AF Portrait Selfie Camera and an 8MP Wide-Angle Camera on the front. It has a triple rear camera module including a 64MP GW1 Super-Sensing Camera, an 8MP wide-angle camera, and a 2MP macro camera, allowing for excellent shots in any circumstance. It offers a fast and premium experience thanks to its MediaTek Dimensity 920 processor. With a large 4200mAh battery and a 44W Flash Charge , this smartphone is available in the market.

    vivo V23e

    The V23e is a game changer because it caters to the needs of the times where selfies are extremely important, by always providing a brilliant selfie photography experience. Featuring a 50MP AF Portrait Selfie front camera with AI Extreme Night Portrait and Multi-Style Portrait modes, users will be able to take the most beautiful selfies possible. For the rear camera, it is equipped with a 64MP Night Camera in addition to an 8MP wide-angle camera and a 2MP macro camera, thereby removing all obstacles, including darkness, to capturing the best possible picture. The device is powered by Funtouch OS 12 to provide consumers with the latest technological advancements and comes with a 44W Flash Charge for uninterrupted use throughout the day.

    vivo Y55
    With its powerful processor and camera, the Y55 is a powerful addition to the Y series of smartphones that should not be overlooked. The device features a 50MP HD rear camera, a 2MP Bokeh camera, and a 2MP macro camera with Double Exposure and Ultra-stable video ensuring the smoothest of shooting experiences . The 16MP front camera is enhanced with a Super Night Selfie, and Aura Screen Light. Run by a Snapdragon 680 processor, the Y55 is capable of handling every task from surfing the net or watching your favourite movie. Powered by a 44W Flash Charge, the device has a 5000mAh battery capable of lasting long periods of time.

    vivo Y33T
    This device is designed to provide young consumers with innovative, meaningful consumer-centric products at a budget-friendly price. The smartphone has a powerful 50 MP Rear Camera and a 16 MP Front Camera. It has a massive 5000mAh battery that is super-powerful, long-lasting, and is supported by 18W Fast Charge, which is designed to accommodate fast users. The Y33T is a strong performer thanks to its Snapdragon 680 processor (6nm) that allows consumers to run more apps without experiencing any system lags.

    One would be hard pressed to choose one phone out of such high-quality devices that provide all the features one desires.

     

    Mian Mansha led delegation of Lahore businessmen meet with President Arif Alvi to discuss impediments to business and economic growth

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      [Lahore: 24th February 2020] An exclusive dinner reception was hosted by Chairman Nishat Group, Mian Mohammad Mansha for President Dr. Arif Alvi, First Lady Mrs. Samina Alvi and Lahore based business families. On the occasion, businessmen met the President and exchanged views on the prevailing business environment.

      Mr. Tariq Saigol, Chairman Kohinoor Group, Mr. Naseem Saigol, Chairman Pak Elektron Limited, Mr. Tariq Rafi,  Chairman Siddiqsons Group, Mr. Anjum Nisar, President FPCCI, Mr. Khurshid Mahmud Kasuri, former Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Syed Yawar Ali, Chairman Nestle Pakistan, Mr. Zaka Ashraf, Chairman Ashraf Group, Mr. Khawar Rafique, Chief Executive Royal Fans, Mr. Shahid Abdullah, Director Sapphire Group, Mr. Reza Baqir, Governor State Bank of Pakistan and other prominent personalities from Lahore and their families also participated in the event.

       

      Speaking at the occasion, Chairman Nishat Group, Mian Mohammad Mansha, who led the delegation, said, We acknowledge the Government’s successes in improving the security situation and in bringing back PSL. Prospects of peace in Afghanistan are also encouraging as it will improve security and economic activity in the region and allow enhancement of cross border trade between Pakistan, Afghanistan and into Central Asia. This also bodes well for the business communities of both countries and it holds the promise of economic development and prosperity for the people.”

       

      Mr. Mansha added, “Due to the slowdown in business and economic activity in the country, people are losing jobs on account of retrenchments which need to be addressed effectively. Inefficient State Owned Enterprises are generating losses which have to be offset with tax money, which could otherwise be spent on the welfare of people. The government needs to privatize these entities to avoid further losses to the national exchequer.”

       

      Mr. Mansha further added, “The business community are major stakeholders and thus the government needs to be in constant dialogue with us so we can synergize efforts and attain economic progress. The business community also needs to be provided an enabling environment, one that is free from harassment, intimidation and bureaucratic bottlenecks, so that they can concentrate and dedicate all efforts towards generating economic activity without which, neither growth can be achieved nor jobs can be created for our youth.”

       

      Speaking at the dinner reception, President Dr. Arif Alvi said “We are cognizant of the fact that Pakistan is undergoing economic difficulties, but there are clear positive signals that the worst is over and our economy and indeed our society are in the process of recovery. The business community has rendered invaluable services in the development of Pakistan and we request you all for a little more patience while the government’s reform process takes root and demonstrates results. There is also a need to avoid cynicism and undue criticism of state institutions.”

       

      The President concluded by assuring the business community of full government support and said the government would continue to engage with the business community to improve the prevailing business environment.

       

      The Nishat Group of companies is one of the region’s leading and most diverse business groups with commercial interests in the finance, insurance, cement, textile, paper, power, dairy, hospitality, real estate and automobile sectors amongst others in Pakistan. The Group has played a significant role in the industrial development of Pakistan and is one of the largest private sector employers, tax payers and exporters of the country.

      MCB-Arif Habib Savings Launches Digital Saving Centre in Emporium Mall, Lahore

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        MCB-Arif Habib Savings Launches Digital Saving Centre in Emporium Mall, Lahore

        Lahore, 6th July, 2017: MCB-Arif Habib Savings and Investments Limited (“MCB-AH”) recently launched a Digital Saving Centre in Lahore. This Digital Saving Centre is located at Emporium Mall, which is one of the busiest and most famous malls of Lahore. 

        The Centre was inaugurated by Mian Mohammad Mansha who took part in some of the entertaining activities with MCB-AH Team as well. The event also included the soft launch of iSave by MCB-AH. iSave is a convenient, online portal which allows customers to meet all their investments and saving needs within seconds. Through iSave customers can easily open an investment account, make investments, redeem their funds as well as monitor them and do much more – using only a few clicks.

         

        The Digital Centre is a digital touch point between the customers and MCB-AH where the organization is all set to provide a seamless investment experience to encourage savings. The objective of the Digital Centre is to be closer to the customer at their convenience by providing facilities like video conferencing to give expert investment advice and personalized investment solutions.

         

        The launch event consisted of enjoyable games and activities to encourage engagement with people visiting the mall. Information regarding the various investment funds and other notable services by MCB-AH was provided to those visited the Centre. A game called “Goal Saver Challenge” was set up by the MCB-AH Team via VR (Virtual Reality) which placed players in the perspective of a goal keeper who had to save goals in order to score points.

         

        MCB-AH is a result of a strategic merger between two leading Asset Management companies of the country, created in June 2011 when sponsors of Arif Habib Investments Limited and MCB Asset Management Company Limited decided to join hands. Carrying the trust of more than 70,000 retail investors, MCB-AH is one of the pioneers and innovators for many firsts, as Asset Manager, Investment Advisor and Pension Fund Manager, managing Open-end Schemes, Discretionary Portfolios and Pension Schemes amounting to over Rs.74.1 Billion (as on 30 June 2017).

        Falling in Love with Scandinavian Design The Story behind the New Nokia Smartphones

        Falling in Love with Scandinavian Design  The Story behind the New Nokia Smartphones

        Falling in Love with Scandinavian Design – the Story behind the New Nokia Smartphones

        Raun Forsyth and Alasdair Mcphail, design directors at HMD Global, led the team behind the new Nokia smartphones – the Nokia 3, Nokia 5 and Nokia 6. Here they take us behind the scenes for an intimate look into the design process from start to finish, the principles of pure Scandinavian simplicity and functionality, staying true to the Nokia design heritage, and what it means to add purpose to beautiful design.

        How does the creative process begin?

        It all started with a strong team vision, we got together with one goal – to create something mind-blowing. As a newly established product team, we began by drawing on our intimate understanding of Nokia’s brand heritage and defining a solid common vision for what we are heading towards.

        The goal was to deliver fantastically durable and smart devices that are at the same time so beautiful you fall in love with them. However, we believe that love develops over time. Whilst others try to trap your attention with shiny, over-the-top designs, we take a more understated approach. Our smartphones will not blind you, they will just keep delighting you as you use them until you end up in love, the gradual and undemanding process it should be.

        What are your main design principles?

        • Get the bones right first – a thorough understanding of the fundamentals of what you want to achieve. The design and engineering departments work separately in a lot of organisations but we work together. Phones have such intricate internals that you cannot design the exterior without understanding the functionality of each part. Otherwise, you will affect the performance. Take the antenna, for example. We have seen in the past how disappointing the user experience can be when design is the only driver behind repositioning it. So we worked with our experienced engineers to create a beautifully plain back panel by hiding the antenna lines on the edge of the phone without negatively impacting the performance.

         

        • Scandinavian simplicity and purity as opposed to complexity – reducing the unnecessary. If you take away what’s not essential from a device, the features that remain are naturally better quality as there is more attention and space for them. Think about Formula 1 racing cars – the engine is now part of the chassis, it is all in one piece, reduced and simplified. And they have never been more powerful. Also, let’s be honest, the more superfluous parts you can remove, the less chance there is for quality issues. And by focussing on essential features, you can reduce the overall size of the smartphone too.
        • Design with purpose. When deciding which materials to use for the chassis, we started by determining what qualities are most important to us and the Nokia users. We wanted phones which are solid, durable and feel good in the hand. Metal provides durability but piecing together separate parts to create a shell results in a higher risk of them breaking apart and disrupting the structural integrity – not something we were prepared to compromise on. So we invested in a metal unibody – each Nokia smartphone is carved from a single block of aluminium, a process which takes 12 hours per unit. And with the shell being made out of a solid metal block, we didn’t need to add a supporting structure inside to hold the parts together which reduced the space requirements and resulted in the compact size we were looking for.
        • Excellence in visual mechanics. People buy on emotion. We can’t help but react to how the look of something makes us feel. That is why, often, beauty overrides logic – consumers are known to choose the aesthetically pleasing device over the supercomputer. It’s a hard-balancing act to fit performance into a shell designed in isolation, which is why we work from the outset with engineering, making it possible to bundle functionality and usability with a sleek and beautiful design. Once the bones of the structure are in the right place, we look at form and colours, the all-important visual side of things, to deliver the complete package.

        You have chosen two very different product form factors, what was the logic behind the choices?

        Not everyone has the same preferences when it comes to the size, weight, shape and colour of their smartphone. So instead of trying to get it almost right for the largest set of consumers, we decided to get it exactly right for everyone by creating a portfolio.

        First, we focused on creating a natural, pebble-like, soft ergonomic form factor. It is a very human shape and although it takes a lot longer to manufacture than a flat line, we were determined to invest in it to trigger that emotive response we all have to natural objects. Emotions are not easily measurable and certainly not logical but it has taken us many years of experience in the industry to know what triggers them. And we are willing to break the rules and invest in those subtle features, like the pebble shape, which our customers may not even realise are there in the first instance. However, it is these features that will make them fall in love with their phones over time.

        Then, we experimented with designing ergonomics that stop short from being completely rational – a shape that is ultra-cool, edgy and different. With sharp machined side walls that could kill, this design has attitude, it is not trying to be loved. The smartphone makes a strong statement to our customers who are looking for something meaningfully different.

        How do you discover those irrational desires?

        We conduct a lot of research. It is not about asking people to tell us what smartphone designs they want. We want to find out more about the other brands and products they like. Then we use our knowledge of consumer behaviour to draw our own conclusions on the common factors behind those affections and the emotive triggers they provide.

        Talking about other brands and products, what did you draw your inspiration from?

        Coming from our roots, we draw inspiration from the minimalism and simplicity of Scandinavian design and architecture. The most iconic object for us is the wavy glass vase by Scandinavian architect and designer Alvar Aalto. His pieces are simple but also memorable and confident in their uniqueness.

        We also look at popular fashion. We noticed that copper, for example, is making a subtle comeback into houseware as part of the trend for natural metal colours to be incorporated into everyday fashion. The metal colours we are using are honest and natural, avoiding the bright cheap metals which could be perceived as Christmas decorations. Another colour we used was the colour of tempered steel – when heated to 600 degrees, steel turns a very deep, rich, silky blue. This colour also triggers pleasant familiarity from its resemblance to the dark denim and deep blue leather goods Italian fashion houses featured in their recent collections.

        Any concluding remarks?

        Things we are fighting for as designers are not logical, some of our choices may, to the untrained eye, look the same and cost more. However, those are the features which give a smartphone its emotional appeal. And we’ve learned when to break the rules. Even when phones sell, the design team often doesn’t get the kudos as people often assign the success to technical specifications. But it is easy to get bored by the spec race so it is time to give people real choice, and the only way to do that is through design.

        The Aroma of Indian Tea: Surpassing Sri Lanka and a Bright Example for Pakistan

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        Lahore Zubair Kasuri: It was the summer of 2004. A special vibrancy filled the tea gardens of India. From the lush green valleys of Assam to the hilly slopes of Darjeeling, the fragrance of tea leaves permeated the air. Farmers were diligently plucking the finest leaves, and traders were busy strategizing how to deliver them to every corner of the world.

        During those days, a silent competition was unfolding in the global tea trade. Sri Lanka, once holding a significant position in tea exports, was now feeling the growing strides of India. With its vast land and diverse climate, India was now producing more tea than ever before.

        Sitting in a small office in Lahore, Jamil Ahmed, who had been involved in trade for a long time, was reading the newspaper. Today’s headline cast a deep thought upon his face. “India Surpasses Sri Lanka!” it declared. India had become the world’s second-largest tea exporting nation.

        Mr. Jamil remembered the days when he had heard from his father about how tea cultivation had started in the subcontinent. Pakistan was newly formed then and striving to strengthen its economy. However, significant attention wasn’t given to tea production at that time.

        Especially in the gardens of South India, despite some seasonal challenges, the fragrant tea continued to carve its niche. Meanwhile, North India, particularly Assam and West Bengal, had achieved record-breaking exports. 255 million kilograms of tea was no small quantity. This hard work had resulted in an income of over ₹71 billion for the country, significantly higher than the previous year.

        The emerging markets of West Asia were proving to be a new ray of hope for India. Where Sri Lankan tea once reigned, Indian traders were now gradually establishing their presence with their high-quality tea. Black tea, which constituted approximately 96 percent of India’s exports, was gaining popularity worldwide for its distinct characteristics and flavor.

        Mr. Jamil thought with a touch of disappointment about his own country, Pakistan, which imported billions of rupees worth of tea every year. According to recent data, Pakistan is one of the largest tea-importing nations globally. It imports substantial quantities of tea from countries like Kenya, Rwanda, Uganda, Vietnam, and Tanzania. Kenya alone is the largest supplier of tea to Pakistan, with an annual value of hundreds of millions of dollars.

        Additionally, China, Burundi, and Indonesia are also significant tea exporters to Pakistan. The Pakistani people are avid tea drinkers; no morning or evening is complete without a cup. He pondered why Pakistani farmers and the government couldn’t learn from India’s success and promote tea cultivation in their own country. Pakistan also possessed land and climate suitable for excellent tea production.

        If this were to happen, not only would Pakistan save significant foreign exchange spent on tea imports, but the Pakistani people would also have access to fresh, high-quality tea from their own land. And when a country utilizes its resources effectively, the path to economic progress widens.

        The Indian government was also pleased with this progress. They understood that the tea industry not only improved the lives of farmers but also played a vital role in the national economy. Therefore, they were introducing new policies to further boost tea exports. Their dream was for Indian tea to establish a unique identity and for the world to recognize it with a special name.

        Mr. Jamil placed the newspaper on his desk, lost in deep thought. India’s success was a bright example for Pakistan, demonstrating that with hard work, planning, and a focus on national resources, any country could achieve progress. He hoped that one day, Pakistan would also become self-sufficient in tea production and spread its own fragrance to the world.

        J. Makeup & Fragrances comes forth with a Beauty Movement – #JdotBeautyAcivity

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          J. Makeup & Fragrances comes forth with a Beauty Movement – #JdotBeautyAcivity

          [Karachi, 13th October 2017]: In a fun-filled and lively event J. introduced their range of silk cream as well as note cosmetics to the local beauty and lifestyle bloggers. Held at the Dolmen Mall Clifton and is on till 15th of October, here on it will move to Dolmen Mall Tariq Road and then Lucky One Mall. The launch of “J. Beauty Activity” was attended in great numbers by some of the biggest bloggers in Pakistan.

           

          In the rendezvous with J. makeup and fragrances, the bloggers and walk-in customers of the malls will be given free makeovers and hands on experience of the J. makeup and fragrances. Known for its high quality, premium products and great coverage foundations, high intensity highlighters, pigmented shades and stay on lip glosses and paints, J. makeup is  fast becoming a go to brand for the perfect everyday look.

           

          #JdotBeautyActivity Kiosk:

          Festival of Beauty at Dolmen Mall Tariq Road 18th to 22nd October 2017

           

          1. Makeup’s Philosophy
          2. staying loyal to its tradition of bringing the best, introduces to its customers, a must have series of vibrant and colourful cosmetics for your face, eyes and lips. With a realm of palettes, that includes nudes, reds, pinks, and purples, you are sure to make a grand entrance. Turn heads with J. distinctive line of makeup with stunning options that will satisfy the modern women’s desire to stand out of the crowd. With J. Makeup, dare to be different. From high-performance lipsticks, eye shadows, blush-on, face powders, contouring kits, blush kits, to a professional range of brushes and BB crème. J. Makeup is here to give you a permanent fixture for all your beauty needs.