Starlink hikes Subscription Prices in Nigeria by 97% | WhatsApp rolls out filters and background for video calls

Today’s Menu ☕️

📱WhatsApp rolls out filters and background for video calls
🏍️ Ampersand partners with CrossBoundary Energy to launch solar-powered charging for electric bikes in Kenya
🤖 Microsoft’s AI Copilot Redefines the Assistant Experience with Voice and Vision Capabilities
🛜 Starlink Hikes Subscription Prices in Nigeria by 97%, Citing “Excessive Inflation”
🥇Ivory Coast’s Daba Finance crowned as $50,000 winner in Ecobank Fintech Challenge

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🏍️ ELECTRIC VEHICLES

Ampersand partners with CrossBoundary Energy to launch solar-powered charging for electric bikes in Kenya

Ampersand, an e-mobility startup, has joined forces with CrossBoundary Energy to roll out solar-powered charging stations for its electric two-wheeler (E2W) motorbikes in Kenya, with the goal of enhancing the accessibility of eco-friendly charging options. This initiative is set to propel the rapid expansion of Ampersand’s electric motorcycle fleet throughout East Africa.

Established in 2016, Ampersand has been at the forefront of assembling and financing electric motorcycles that offer a more cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative to conventional petrol-powered bikes. In East Africa, where over five million petrol motorcycles are in use, Ampersand’s electric models offer a promising solution for reducing both costs and environmental impact.

Since its commercial launch in May 2019, Ampersand has successfully expanded its fleet to over 3,400 electric motorcycles and is on track to surpass the 10,000 mark by the end of 2024. The strategic alliance with CrossBoundary Energy is set to deliver renewable energy for charging at reduced rates, thereby bolstering Ampersand’s efforts to scale up sustainably..........continue reading

📱SOCIAL MEDIA

WhatsApp rolls out filters and background for video calls

WhatsApp is making strides to enhance its video calling experience with the introduction of filters and backgrounds, positioning itself as a strong competitor to established videoconferencing platforms like Zoom. With over two billion users across 180 countries, the Meta-owned messaging app is already the largest in the world, and these new features aim to make video conversations even more engaging, whether for personal or professional purposes.

In a recent announcement, WhatsApp revealed the rollout of filters and backgrounds for video calls, allowing users to personalize their experience. Whether you’re trying to add a playful twist to a casual conversation or maintain privacy during a business call, these new effects offer a variety of options. The update is designed to bring a more expressive and fun element to WhatsApp’s video-calling feature, making it a compelling alternative to Zoom.............continue reading

🤖 ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

Microsoft’s AI Copilot Redefines the Assistant Experience with Voice and Vision Capabilities

Microsoft has introduced a major overhaul to its Copilot AI assistant, transforming it into a more personalized and interactive tool with new voice and vision capabilities. This update aims to make Copilot a more engaging and supportive companion, enabling users to interact with AI in ways that feel natural, helpful, and adaptive to individual needs.

In its latest update, Microsoft has refined the tone and personality of Copilot, giving it a voice that feels more conversational and human-like. Creative experts such as psychologists, novelists, and comedians have been enlisted to shape the chatbot’s new voice, ensuring that it can interact with users in a more amiable and engaging manner. This shift is part of a broader goal to make AI less mechanical and more relatable.............continue reading

🛜 INTERNET ACCESS

Starlink Hikes Subscription Prices in Nigeria by 97%, Citing “Excessive Inflation”

Starlink, Elon Musk’s satellite internet constellation, has announced a significant price increase for its services in Nigeria, raising monthly subscription fees by a staggering 97%. This move comes as a surprise to many, especially considering the company’s recent price reduction for its hardware in the country just last year, and its push to make its services more accessible in other African markets like Kenya.

In an email sent to customers on Tuesday morning, Starlink cited “excessive levels of inflation” as the reason for the price hike. The new subscription rates, which take effect immediately for new customers and from October 31st for existing customers, are as follows:

• Standard (Residential): N75,000 (previously N38,000)

• Mobile- Regional (Roam Unlimited): N167,000 (previously N49,000)

• Mobile – Global (Global Roam): N717,000

This price increase comes despite Starlink gaining significant traction in Nigeria, where it has been lauded for providing high-speed internet access to underserved areas. The company’s initial entry into the Nigerian market was met with enthusiasm, with many viewing it as a solution to the country’s persistent internet connectivity challenges.............continue reading

🥇COMPETITION

Ivory Coast’s Daba Finance crowned as $50,000 winner in Ecobank Fintech Challenge

The Ivorian fintech startup Daba Finance has emerged as the victor of the Ecobank Fintech Challenge this year, securing a substantial reward of US$50,000. Ecobank, a prominent independent banking group with a pan-African presence, caters to over 32 million customers across various sectors, including consumer, commercial, and corporate banking, spanning 35 nations on the continent.

The Ecobank Fintech Challenge, now in its seventh iteration, is an annual competition that opens doors for both nascent and established startups to forge partnerships with Ecobank in its extensive network of 33 countries. This year’s challenge saw a dozen cutting-edge fintech startups vying for the judges’ approval and the coveted US$50,000 prize..…....continue reading

OTHER STORIES

• Vantage Capital funds Moroccan agribusiness SPMS with €14 million investment…….read more

• Carry1st and Audiomack Partner to Expand Payment Options for Music Streaming in Africa….read more

• Egypt set to inaugurate pioneering $50 million sovereign investment guarantee agency for Africa….read more

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