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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.

Pakistan Introduces Energy Conservation Building Code 2023 to Boost Energy Efficiency

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Islamabad, Pakistan – January 2, 2025, In a bid to reduce energy consumption and promote sustainable growth, Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Energy, Sardar Awais Ahmed Khan Leghari, has urged provincial authorities to implement the Energy Conservation Building Code 2023 (ECBC-2023).

The ECBC-2023 aims to increase energy efficiency in buildings, which currently account for 23% of Pakistan’s total energy consumption and 54% of its electricity usage. The code seeks to reduce energy waste, lower operational costs, and promote sustainable development.

Key Provisions of the ECBC-2023

– Energy-efficient building design and construction
– Use of energy-efficient appliances and lighting
– Improved insulation and building envelope
– Efficient water use and conservation

Implementing the ECBC-2023

To ensure the successful implementation of the ECBC-2023, Leghari proposed a two-pronged strategy:

1. Revision of existing building bye-laws to incorporate the ECBC-2023
2. Integration of the code into annual development programs for public sector infrastructure development

Availability of the ECBC-2023

The ECBC-2023 is now available on the National Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (NEECA) website for public access and use.

Expected Benefits

The implementation of the ECBC-2023 is expected to bring numerous benefits, including:

– Reduced energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions
– Lower operational costs for building owners and occupants
– Improved energy security and reduced reliance on fossil fuels
– Enhanced economic competitiveness and sustainable growth

By implementing the ECBC-2023, Pakistan aims to take a significant step towards reducing its energy consumption, promoting sustainable development, and mitigating the impacts of climate change.

Pakistan Cracks Down on Corrupt Officials After Boat Tragedies

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Islamabad, Pakistan – In the wake of devastating boat tragedies that claimed the lives of numerous Pakistani migrants, Prime Minister of Pakistan has ordered a crackdown on officials involved in human smuggling. The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) is leading the charge, taking swift action against those implicated in these tragic incidents.
FIA Director General Ahmed Ishaq Jahangir announced a series of measures aimed at rooting out corruption and negligence within the agency. Cases have been registered against 13 FIA officials directly involved in human smuggling operations. Furthermore, disciplinary action has been initiated against 49 officials for their alleged roles in the boat tragedies. This includes the dismissal of 4 Inspectors, 10 Sub-Inspectors, 2 Assistant Sub-Inspectors, 5 Head Constables, and 14 Constables.
“There is no place in this agency for those who demonstrate negligence and malpractice,” stated Jahangir. “We are committed to holding all those involved accountable.”
The FIA’s internal accountability drive seeks to purge the agency of corrupt individuals who exploit vulnerable citizens. “We are taking strict measures against any FIA official found to be involved in illegal activities,” asserted Jahangir. “Those who exploit innocent people for profit will not be spared.”
In a related development, an FIR has been registered in Gujranwala against three FIA officials allegedly linked to the recent Greece boat tragedy. Head Constable Aqeel, Constable Usman, and Sub-Inspector Zeba Mirza, all stationed at Sialkot Airport, are accused of colluding with human smugglers. Aqeel and Usman have been arrested, while Mirza is currently under investigation.

IG Motorway Police Inspects Call Center and GPS Tracking System on New Year’s Day

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Islamabad,News reporter, IG National Highways & Motorway Police, Mr. Rafat Mukhtar, visited the Motorway Police Call Centre early on New Year’s Day. He inspected the GPS tracking system for Motorway Police vehicles and monitored patrolling vehicles across Pakistan. He directed officers to take steps to further improve the digital GPS system.

During the visit, Motorway Police officers briefed the IG on the performance of patrolling vehicles on motorways and highways. The IG also inspected the call center, GPS tracking system, and other related services.

G’Five to Launch New Feature Phone and Smartphone Brands in Pakistan

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Islamabad, Pakistan – December 31, 2024 – G’Five Mobile Private Limited, Pakistan’s first-ever smartphone assembler and manufacturer, has announced the upcoming launch of a new feature phone and two new smartphone brands. The company made the announcement via a teaser image on its website and social media channels, promising “something big” coming soon.
The teaser image features the tagline “Stay Tuned” and states that G’Five is “going to launch another one feature phone & two smartphone brands.” It also includes a countdown timer, indicating that the brand announcement will be made in 15 days.
G’Five has not yet revealed any details about the upcoming devices, but the company is known for its affordable and feature-rich mobile phones. The new feature phone and smartphone brands are expected to cater to the needs of a wide range of consumers in Pakistan.
The company’s website, www.gfivepakistan.com, currently features a limited selection of feature phones and smartphones. However, it is expected that the new brands and devices will be added to the website in the coming weeks.
G’Five’s entry into the smartphone market in Pakistan is a significant development, as the company is the first local manufacturer to assemble and manufacture smartphones in the country. The company’s commitment to providing affordable and innovative mobile phones is likely to be welcomed by consumers in Pakistan.
About G’Five Mobile Private Limited
G’Five Mobile Private Limited is a Pakistan-based mobile phone company that was founded in 2003. The company is the first-ever smartphone assembler and manufacturer in Pakistan. G’Five is committed to providing affordable and feature-rich mobile phones to consumers in Pakistan.

Austrian Ambassador Visits Kartarpur Corridor, Praises Hospitality

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SHAKARGARH, PAKISTAN – Austrian Ambassador to Pakistan, Andrea Wicke, recently visited the Kartarpur Corridor with her family. The ambassador paid her respects at the Gurdwara Darbar Sahib, the final resting place of Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism.


During her visit, Ambassador Wicke participated in traditional activities, including visiting the Darshan Sthan, a viewing point offering a glimpse of the Gurdwara in India, and partaking in langar, the communal meal served to all visitors.

Ambassador Wicke expressed her gratitude to the Pakistani government for the well-maintained facilities and warm hospitality extended to her and her family. This visit highlights the significance of the Kartarpur Corridor as a bridge for religious tourism and diplomacy, fostering goodwill between Pakistan and other nations.

IHC Orders Zong to Refund Rs2 Billion to Customers

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Islamabad – Special Report, The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has upheld the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority’s (PTA) directive for Zong, a major telecom operator in Pakistan, to refund over Rs 2 billion to its customers.

Justice Mian Gul Hassan Aurangzeb dismissed Zong’s appeal against PTA’s order, confirming that the amount of Rs 2,028,038,584 was improperly collected from customers as service/maintenance/operational fee charges during the period April 26, 2019, to July 12, 2019.

Court Observations

The court noted that cellular operators were charging customers Rs 10 on every Rs 100 prepaid card under various service charges. Justice Aurangzeb emphasized that the Supreme Court had earlier ruled such charges to be invalid and illegal.

The IHC deemed Zong’s appeal against the PTA directive as “not maintainable” and instructed the company to comply with PTA’s mandate to refund the collected amount.

Refund Mechanism

PTA has directed Zong to:

Refund Rs 2 billion to affected customers in the form of balance without any validity restrictions.

Submit complete details of the service/maintenance charges recovered during the specified period.

Broader Concerns in the Telecom Sector

The telecom industry is also grappling with significant challenges due to heavy taxation. Recently, the Telecom Operators Association expressed concerns about new taxes introduced in the 2024 federal budget, warning of potential repercussions.

Industry Challenges

Telecom operators highlighted that two major market players are considering exiting Pakistan due to unresolved tax issues.

The sector contributed PKR 340 billion in taxes last year and attracted USD 15 billion in direct foreign investment over the years.

The telecom industry has cautioned that continued tax burdens and legal complexities might deter further foreign investment, impacting Pakistan’s digital infrastructure and economic growth.

This landmark judgment by the IHC is seen as a victory for consumer rights and a step towards ensuring accountability within the telecom sector.

 

itel Takes Disciplinary Action Against Partners for Cross-Region Sales Violation

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Islamabad,Special Report, itel, a leading mobile phone brand, has announced disciplinary action against one of its Managing Dealers (MDs), ITS4U, and its associated Distributor, Siccotel, for violating the company’s Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) guidelines by engaging in cross-region stock sales.

In a notification issued to all dealers and distributors, itel’s Sales Management Department stated that this action disrupts market dynamics, affects channel confidence, and undermines fair competition.

itel Takes Disciplinary Action Against Partners for Cross-Region
Sales Violation
As per itel’s Policy on Non-Affiliation & SOP Compliance, the following sanctions have been imposed:
* MD (ITS4U): Immediate cancellation of monthly incentives and a 7-day account suspension.
* DST (Siccotel): PKR 200,000 fine and immediate suspension of supply.
* RSM (Furqan Muhammad): PKR 10,000 fine.
* CM (Abdul Qadoos): PKR 5,000 fine.
itel urges all channel partners to strictly adhere to the outlined policies to maintain the integrity of the brand and ensure a healthy and stable market environment. The company warned that any future violations will result in escalated penalties, including permanent termination of partnerships.
This incident serves as a reminder to all itel partners about the importance of compliance with company guidelines.