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Brace yourself! “Group Video Call” to debut on WhatsApp soon

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WhatsApp Group Video Calling

Number one instant messaging platform, WhatsApp, is about to launch a feature within the app which will take it steps far above other rivals and counterparts.

At its recently concluded 2018 F8 Developer conference held in San Jose, California, Facebook (WhatsApp parent company) announced the instant messaging app will be getting a “Group Video Calling” features in the coming weeks — though no date or time was specified.

WhatsApp Group Video Calling
Mark Zuckerberg presenting WhatsApp Group Video Calling at the F8 conference

Just like the recently added “Statuses”, the soon-to-be-launched Group Video Calling features will, no doubt, revolutionize the way user text, interact, and overall lifestyle.

The Group Video calling feature will create an enabling environment where 2 or more users, but a maximum of four, can visually interact with the app. It isn’t sure (yet) if the platform will allow more than four users in a group video call, but from the demo presented by the company (and as seen in the above image), it looks pretty much like not more than 4 users can feature in a group video call.

Interestingly, Instagram (also a Facebook-owned photo and video sharing platform) will also be getting the “Group Video Calling” feature.

WhatsApp Group Video Calling

Asides the Group Video Calling, Facebook also announced some other features that will grace the instant messenger soon. One of them is the “WhatsApp Stickers”.

Truth be told, this feature is (or was) somewhat overdue. In reality, WhatsApp is most people’s favorite messaging app. So switching between WhatsApp and Skype for group text and group video conversations can be sometimes annoying. The introduction of the Group Video Calling feature is gradually transforming WhatsApp into an all-in-one, or all-round app.

And it’s a good thing, really. I guess it’s only a matter of time before we can perform financial transactions (as in Facebook Messenger) on WhatsApp too.

What do you think about the WhatsApp Group Video Calling feature? Are you psyched up about it? I, for one, can’t wait to try it out when it is officially released in the upcoming app updates.

Facebook to rollout ‘Clear History’ feature in the coming months

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Facebook to rollout ‘Clear History’ feature in the coming months

Facebook was in a lot of trouble just last month when it was found out that they sold a lot of their data to Cambridge Analytica. Since then, a lot of people have left the platform and general stocks have dropped.

To give users even more control over their data and prevent such a breach from happening again in the future, the social media giant has planned the rollout of a new update to its platform.

To be dubbed ‘Clear History,’ this will work in the same way browsers do by allowing you clear any information that is being collected about you. The good news is that the functionality of this new feature extends beyond the website alone but goes on to include third-party applications too.

However, you should note that some things may still not be cleared even after using this feature. Afterall, even clearing your cookies does not mean that everything will go as planned.

Expected to start hitting the app in the coming months, this is one welcome update we cannot wait to have.

LG Electronics Provides Free Laundry Service To Ogba Community In Lagos

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LG Electronics Provides Free Laundry Service To Ogba Community In Lagos

LG Electronics recently inaugurated a free laundry service for the people of Ogba, Ikeja and its environs who are facing the difficulty of water and power to efficiently carry out their washing chores.

The laundry cabin is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities to effectively take care of laundry needs of the people for free.

The event which held at the LG showroom located at Ogba was attended by top officials from Korea; Mr. Choong Hak Lee, Executive Vice President, Business Support Officer, LG Electronics; Mr. Dae Sik Yoon, Vice President, LG Electronics as well as top management of LG Electronics West Africa operations led by Mr. Taeick Son, Managing Director, LG Electronics  West Africa operations; Mr. Mohammed Fouani, Managing Director Fouani Nigeria limited; Mr. Jiung Park, General Manager, Home Appliances Division, LG Electronics; Mr. Hari Elluru, Corporate Marketing Manager, LG Electronics West Africa operations alongside other dignitaries and the media.

Opening to the public

The Free Laundry tagged “Life’s Good with LG Wash” is part of the company’s corporate social responsibility (CSR) program for the year which has been designed to help people, homes and the community at large lacking sufficient water and power to carry out their laundry requirement.

It is designed to serve over 50 people per day and it will operate on a daily basis from morning till evening in order to ameliorate the living conditions as well as support the daily washing requirement of people in the area.

It is interesting to note that, LG Electronics has, over the years, continued to receive accolades from Nigerian consumers for having their interest at heart in the development of cutting-edge technological products. LG plans to be replicate this initiative in other strategic locations across the state and indeed the country.

Top Execs

The Executive Vice President, LG Electronics, in his opening remarks, said

As a global company, LG Electronics wants to use its capabilities to help local communities all over the world solving some of their regional issues.  In this regard, I hope that ‘Life’s Good with LG Wash’ will help make your lives more convenient and comfortable. I hope that the opening of ‘Life’s Good with LG Wash’ will bring more spare time and comforts to residents here. LG Electronics will continue to support communities even in the future.

 

However, the feat which seems to be the first of its kind in the country by any brand in the country will create a real difference in improving society and helping address social issues in Ogba and its environs. The facility contains several LG Washing machines, LG Dryers, LG Air Conditioning units, uninterrupted power supply, a constant supply of water among others to ensure the facility operates seamlessly.

Also commenting at the occasion Managing Director Fouani Nigeria Limited, Mr. Mohammed Fouani, said:

This is what I truly call giving back to the society, because the real beneficiaries of this project are the masses, I believe they will take advantage of this initiative from LG Electronics to make life better for them. The laundry is fully equipped with modern facilities for a standard laundry service.

Launch Ceremony proceedings

More so, LG Electronics has vigorously pursued its CSR initiatives with all sense of responsibility and commitment, placing it at the forefront of giving back to the society.

In the educational and health sectors of the economy, the brand has contributed immensely by touching lives and institutions which is its CSR core thrust which should tilt toward human-centric projects. Recently, LG made donations to health institution in Port Harcourt, Abuja and Kano all in a bid to give a facility lift to the health sector in the country.

 

Update to Google Duo paused due to low call volume bug

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Update to Google Duo paused due to low call volume bug

Google began the rollout of version 30 update to its Duo application, but the search engine giant is now halting that update. In fact, they are rolling back users who had already gone on to update their applications to the previous version (version 29.2).

According to a tweet sent out by Justin Uberti, the team lead for Google Duo, they had to take such steps because a low call volume problem was bugging the new update.

For now, it is unsure when the update would be resumed from its pause state. If you were also affected by low call volumes in the Duo app after your update to version 30, the company advises you to fix the problem by going back to the last software version.

LG: User-friendly vacuum cleaners with advanced and innovative technology pose a lucrative market 

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User-friendly vacuum cleaners with advanced and innovative technology pose a lucrative market 

With increased awareness on indoor health and hygiene, innovative, trendy and easy to use vacuum technologies on the rise

 

Lagos, Nigeria, 22, March, 2018: The demand for household vacuum cleaners has grown over the last few years due to growing awareness about health and cleanliness among the urban population. A vacuum cleaner is more than just a modern machine; it has become a necessity that is a part of every household where health is of the highest importance.

 

In recent years, vacuum cleaner technology has witnessed some important advancements. There is a growing emphasis on developing next-generation vacuum cleaners that are smart, cordless, and enhance the user experience, making cleaning effortless.

Smart vacuum cleaners with filter-sensing, floor-sensing, and battery-sensing technologies are being developed in tandem with other advances. An increasing focus on a more sustainable lifestyle is also driving the demand for energy-efficient vacuum cleaners.

 

According to Global Industry Analysts, the global household vacuum cleaners market is forecast to reach US$11.4bn by 2020. Euromonitor International’s market research indicates that bag-less vacuum cleaning devices are growing in popularity, particularly in the MEA region. Developments in air filtration technology and the rising incidences of asthma are helping drive sales of products with filtration standards like HEPA. There is also a strong focus on sustainability, driving the growth of more energy-efficient vacuum cleaners.

 

Commenting on the growing trend within the vacuum cleaner market, Mr. Taeick Son, said:

Consumers today are seeking vacuum cleaners that offer flexibility and save time. The advancements in technology-supporting innovation is resulting in more user-friendly vacuum cleaners. The growing industrialization and busy lifestyles have led to a surge in demand for quicker, more efficient methods of cleaning at home.

Traditional cleaning methods often take longer, and have become comparatively tougher. There is also an increase in awareness of the health benefits of using a vacuum cleaner resulting in an increased demand for vacuum cleaners. Innovative technologies and features are constantly being integrated into vacuum cleaners, and cordless vacuum cleaner technology is gaining traction in the market today.

According to market research firm IHS Markit, cordless vacuum cleaners currently account for 30% in the global vacuum cleaner market. LG’s cordless vacuum cleaner sales have has increased on average 20% annually and the new products are expected to push the growth of wireless vacuum cleaner sales.

With weak suction power and short battery life, identified as technological impediments against the wide and rapid market penetration of battery powered vacuum cleaners, LG’s latest line-up will serve as a perfect solution to these gaps within the vacuum cleaner market.

To meet the growing demands of its customers in the MEA region, LG Electronics will be launching vacuum cleaners with advanced filtration, easy storability and powerful suction, all in a compact, energy-efficient battery-operated cordless form factor, giving consumers unparalleled ease of use and operation, and peace of mind for household hygiene.

LG’s expertise within the vacuum cleaner market is a result of in-depth research and analysis, combining years of engineering efforts to bring a compact, reliable, easy-to-use, energy-efficient and powerful tool for everyday use.

 

 

About LG Electronics Middle East & Africa Regional Headquarters

LG Electronics Middle East & Africa (MEA) is the regional headquarters for LG Electronics based in Dubai responsible for the vast area from Western Sahara to Pakistan and from Turkey to South Africa. The MEA headquarters oversees operations in 23 countries comprised of 12 subsidiaries, 11 branch offices and 3 manufacturing facilities, covering sales across 35 countries.

Employing more than 2,000 local workers, LG’s MEA headquarters is the hub for strategic governance of the company’s business in the region and provides support to country offices in the areas of marketing, human resources, training and procurement, among others 

 

Media Contacts:

 

Padma Venu
Regional PR Manager MEA RHQ Marketing Team

LG Electronics
Tel: +971-4-279-9507 (Ext. 507)
E-mail: [email protected]

 

 

 

 

Google Maps update for iOS will save you waiting time at restaurants

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Google Maps update for iOS will save you waiting time at restaurants

Google understands that it is unpleasant to pull up at a nice restaurant and then have to wait minutes before your group can get seated. That is why they have added a new feature to their iOS app which will let you know when there is such a wait at that restaurant you are about to go to.

This new feature is rolling out to the Google Maps for iOS only though, so Android users should not hold their breaths.

Google Maps update for iOS will save you waiting time at restaurants

What it will do is inform the restaurant goer of the average waiting times at certain eateries. Because the values can change at any time, Google has opted to go the way of hourly updates rather than sending out a one-time figure.

This new update already has more than one million restaurants covered under it. Asides giving an insight into the waiting times too, the new update also makes it easier to find reviews on a restaurant of your choice.

If you already have the app, just go ahead and update it to start enjoying the new feature. Those that did not have it earlier can head over to the Apple App Store to get their Google Maps installed on their phones

Google kicks off Launchpad Accelerator program in Lagos with 12 start-ups from Africa

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Google kicks off Launchpad Accelerator program in Lagos with 12 start-ups from Africa

Google, as part of its fulfilment of Corporate Social Responsibility in Africa, has announced that it would be providing scholarships to aspiring developers across the continent. Kicking off the event in Lagos yesterday, the program which was dubbed Launchpad Accelerator will commence with a total list of 12 start-up companies

In partnership with Udacity and Andel, this scholarship program will see as many as 15,000 single course programs and a system of 500 nanodegree scholarships too. These will be operated on a total budget of $3 million which covers such things as working space, travels, equity-free support and access to industry experts in Google, Silicon Valley and all of Africa.

Google kicks off Launchpad Accelerator program in Lagos with 12 start-ups from Africa

Each program will last a total of three months, giving a large number of participants a chance to also enjoy the impartation of knowledge over the course of the next three years.

For the first Launchpad Accelerator class, here are the 12 start-ups that have been selected and the regions they come from:

Nigeria – Babymigo, Kudi, OkadaBooks, Piggybank.ng, Riby, Thrive Agric

Kenya – Flexpay, Pezesha

South Africa – swiftVEE

Ghana – OMG Digital

Tanzania – Tango TV

Uganda – Teheca

SwiftKey updated to v7.0, brings stickers and calendar integrations

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SwiftKey updated to v7.0, brings stickers and calendar integrations

Ever since Microsoft completed the acquisition of SwiftKey (Android/ iOS) in 2016, there has been a lack of major innovation going into the design and build of the keyboard. However, Microsoft has now pushed out a new update to their new keyboard so that it can better compete with the likes of Gboard and TouchPal that have fast become favourites on the Android OS.

Coming in as the SwiftKey 7.0, the update brings various features such as new GIFs, stickers, themes and menus for the user to choose from. All of these would be revealed once you access the new Toolbar option that is denoted by a ‘+’ sign on the keyboard ribbon.

SwiftKey updated to v7.0, brings stickers and calendar integrations

There is an exclusive sticker option for Android users which lets you pick from a massive library of stickers when you are chatting. These stickers can be sent as they are or edited to get the perfect look before you hit the send button.

Some expected features are the location feature which would allow you either share your location with someone you are chatting with or send them an address that you have saved. Above that, a new calendar integration will soon allow you make plans from your chats directly into your phone’s calendar app.

To cap it all off, this new update sees the addition of eight new languages. Described as ‘lish’ language, this is supposedly going to make the transition between one language and the other even more seamless.

YouTube rolls out Dark Theme to mobile, but you may not get it yet

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YouTube rolls out Dark Theme to mobile, but you may not get it yet

YouTube rolls out Dark Theme to mobile, but you may not get it yet

The much-loved YouTube Dark theme will now be featuring on mobiles, and the iOS users will be the first to get it. This was made known via a tweet sent out by the YouTube team yesterday to announce the coming of this new skin to mobile users.

The tweet has a video embedded in it to help people set up their YouTube applications in order to display this new theme. For those of you who don’t want to watch, the video instructs that you tap on your profile icon after which you should tap on the Settings tab. From there, you will be able to enable or disable the Dark Theme option.

The YouTube Team was asked about when the same feature will be available for Android users. While they did not provide any specifics as to the date to expect such a rollout on the Google-owned OS, they did promise that it was going to happen soon.

WhatsApp quietly updates the app, extends time window for deleting texts

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WhatsApp quietly updates the app, extends time window for deleting texts

WhatsApp quietly updates the app, extends time window for deleting texts

Last year, WhatsApp rolled out a neat feature that would allow users delete a text they had sent. This new feature would not only delete the chat for them, but for the person on the other ed too. The only catch there was that such deletion had to occur within the first 7 minutes of sending the text.

That would, of course, prevent the recipient from seeing the message, but they would get notified that a line/ lines of text had been deleted by the sender.

Today, we are happy to announce that WhatsApp has improved on this feature and would now allow you delete messages several minutes after sending them. According to the announcement on their twitter page, the new timeframe is a little weird and specific.

Going into the numbers, you can now keep messages for 1 hour, 8 minutes and 16 seconds after you send it. Beyond that time, you won’t be able to delete it anymore.

We are not sure why the window was expanded this much but it would surely provide for folks who have second thoughts about what they have said, many minutes after they must have put the world out. The only downside is that deleting the message still won’t protect you against screenshots, so it’s better to put a lot of thought into the text before hitting the send button at all