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Category: Tech

  • First ever Virtual Reality classes launched in Pakistan

    First ever Virtual Reality classes launched in Pakistan

    Information Technology University (ITU) of Lahore has started virtual reality classes for the first time in Pakistan.

    ITU became the first educational institution in Pakistan to offer classes in Metaverse. The online class will also have the feeling of being in a real educational institution.

    Students and teachers in any city, any country, can simply put on the virtual reality headset and they will reach the class. There will be a projector and board for the teacher. In Metaverse, students will be able to feel their movements with questions and answers.

    Students say that the online classroom is so close to reality that it has become easier to understand the syllabus.

    Head of Department of Computer Sciences Ibrahim Ghaznavi said, “With this initiative, where energy will be saved, the academic ability of students will be improved.”

    Talking about Covid, he said, “When online classes started after Corona, it was necessary to improve them because the students did not understand in the online classes, those classes were not close to reality.”

    The University has also entered into an agreement with the University of Denmark in a pilot project.

    The IT industry is of the opinion that if legislators make laws for modern technology and use it for the promotion of education, then Pakistan can shine around the world.

  • Future Samsung smartphones to offer lightning-fast data transfer rates

    Future Samsung smartphones to offer lightning-fast data transfer rates

    Samsung Semiconductor is propelling mobile device technology forward with its latest advancements in non-volatile memory.

    After successfully integrating the UFS 4.0 solution into its previous flagship models such as the Galaxy S23 series and the 2023 foldable phones, followed by the latest Galaxy S24 lineup, Samsung is now gearing up for the next phase.

    In a recent announcement on the social media platform Weixin, Samsung Semiconductor unveiled its roadmap for the evolution of UFS (Universal Flash Storage) solutions.

    According to the roadmap, Samsung is set to introduce the UFS 4.0 4-lane CS next year, with a significant leap to UFS 5.0 anticipated in 2027.

    These advancements promise substantial improvements in data transfer speeds, with UFS 4.0 4-lane expected to double the current speed from approximately 4GB/s to 8GB/s.

    Looking further ahead, the highly anticipated UFS 5.0 update, slated for 2027, aims to push speeds even higher, potentially exceeding 10GB/s.

    Samsung Semiconductor is committed to commencing mass production of UFS 4.0 4-lane solutions before 2025, emphasizing the integration of two UFS controllers to enhance sequential read speed.

    These advancements are poised to revolutionize mobile experiences, offering faster loading times and empowering on-device AI applications.

    While Samsung has not disclosed specific models set to adopt the UFS 4.0 4-lane technology first, speculation suggests it could be integrated into the Galaxy S25 series.

    Moreover, UFS 5.0 is expected to debut alongside future Galaxy S27 models, promising an even more seamless user experience.

    In line with these technological advancements, Samsung is also exploring AI-based features for its next-generation devices, potentially introducing some through a subscription-based model.

  • Information Minister admits X still restricted in Pakistan

    Information Minister admits X still restricted in Pakistan

    Following earlier assertions that social media giant X, formerly known as Twitter, was accessible to online users, Information Minister Atta Tarar has now conceded that the popular social networking app remains suspended in the country.

    During an interview with a local news channel on Monday, Tarar acknowledged, “Twitter was already banned when we assumed power, and there is no official notification regarding its status.” Emphasising the necessity for a charter delineating “do’s and don’ts,” the information minister advocated for discussions among political parties to establish “red lines” that should not be crossed on the platform.

    Expressing his dismay over allegations against women, abuses, misconduct, and smear campaigns targeting the sacrifices of martyrs on social media, Tarar highlighted the need for accountability.

    It is noteworthy that Tarar dismissed inquiries about X’s suspension in Pakistan on March 13, stating, “Twitter [X] is operational. Tweets continue to be posted on Twitter as well. If there is an official notification mandating its closure, then it should be presented for discussion.”

    The continued unavailability of X, a vital source of information, to millions of users in Pakistan for over a month now, since its suspension preceding the February 8 general election, raises concerns. Despite various court orders urging the restoration of uninterrupted access, users have faced sporadic disruptions and obstacles.

    Furthermore, on March 13, human rights activists and civil society organisations issued a joint statement expressing deep concern over the escalating instances of internet shutdowns and social media platform blocks, advocating for the immediate reinstatement of X.

  • AI Tools Generate Sexist Content, Warns UN

    AI Tools Generate Sexist Content, Warns UN

    The world’s most popular AI tools are powered by programs from OpenAI and Meta that show prejudice against women, according to a study launched on Thursday by the UN’s cultural organisation UNESCO.

    The biggest players in the multibillion-dollar AI field train their algorithms on vast amounts of data largely pulled from the internet, which enables their tools to write in the style of Oscar Wilde or create Salvador Dali-inspired images.

    But their outputs have often been criticised for reflecting racial and sexist stereotypes, as well as using copyrighted material without permission.

    UNESCO experts tested Meta’s Llama 2 algorithm and OpenAI’s GPT-2 and GPT-3.5, the program that powers the free version of popular chatbot ChatGPT.

    The study found that each algorithm — known in the industry as Large Language Models (LLMs) — showed “unequivocal evidence of prejudice against women”.

    The programs generated texts that associated women’s names with words such as “home”, “family” or “children”, but men’s names were linked with “business”, “salary” or “career”.

    While men were portrayed in high-status jobs like teachers, lawyers and doctors, women were frequently prostitutes, cooks or domestic servants.

    GPT-3.5 was found to be less biased than the other two models.

    However, the authors praised Llama 2 and GPT-2 for being open source, allowing these problems to be scrutinised, unlike GPT-3.5, which is a closed model.

    AI companies “are really not serving all of their users”, Leona Verdadero, a UNESCO specialist in digital policies, told AFP.

    Audrey Azoulay, UNESCO’s director general, said the general public were increasingly using AI tools in their everyday lives.

    “These new AI applications have the power to subtly shape the perceptions of millions of people, so even small gender biases in their content can significantly amplify inequalities in the real world,” she said.

    UNESCO, releasing the report to mark International Women’s Day, recommended AI companies hire more women and minorities and called on governments to ensure ethical AI through regulation.

  • Apple’s iPhone sales decline by 24% in China, while Huawei’s sales surge

    Apple’s iPhone sales decline by 24% in China, while Huawei’s sales surge

    In the first six weeks of 2024, Apple experienced a significant downturn in iPhone sales in China, facing a 24 per cent year-on-year decrease, according to a report by research firm Counterpoint.

    The decline was attributed to heightened competition from local rivals, notably Huawei, which witnessed a remarkable 64 per cent increase in unit sales during the same period.

    Apple, once holding the second position in the Chinese smartphone market in 2023 with a 19 per cent market share, now finds itself in fourth place with a reduced share of 15.7 per cent.

    On the other hand, Huawei climbed to second place, expanding its market share from 9.4 per cent to 16.5 per cent year-over-year.

    Counterpoint’s senior analyst, Mengmeng Zhang, explained the dynamics, stating that Apple faced formidable competition from a resurgent Huawei at the high end while also encountering pricing pressures from domestic brands like OPPO, Vivo, and Xiaomi in the middle segment.

    To counteract the decline, Apple initiated measures such as subsidising certain iPhone models by up to 1,300 yuan ($180.68) through flagship stores on Tmall, Alibaba’s major marketplace platform.

    Earlier, the company had offered discounts of up to 500 yuan on its official sites.

    Huawei’s resurgence in premium smartphone sales was attributed to the successful release of its Mate 60 series in August.

    Overcoming years of challenges posed by US restrictions on key component exports, Huawei managed to reclaim its position in the market.

    Additionally, Honour, the smartphone brand that separated from Huawei in 2020, witnessed a 2 per cent increase in unit sales, making it the only other top-five brand to experience growth in the first six weeks of the year.

    Contrastingly, Chinese brands Vivo, Xiaomi, and Oppo faced declines of 15 per cent, 7 per cent, and 29 per cent, respectively, highlighting the fiercely competitive landscape in the Chinese smartphone market.

    Overall, the report indicates a 7 per cent shrinkage in the country’s smartphone market during this period.

  • Apple set to release new iPad Pro, MacBook Air, and more

    Apple set to release new iPad Pro, MacBook Air, and more

    Apple is set to make significant announcements this week, as confirmed by a reliable source familiar with the matter, shared with MacRumors.

    While the specific products remain undisclosed, speculations hint at new iPads, Macs, and accessories. Notably, Beats Solo 4 headphones are also on Apple’s agenda.

    According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, the tech giant plans to unveil new iPad Pro, iPad Air, and MacBook Air models, accompanied by fresh Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil accessories.

    Gurman suggests that Apple will forgo a traditional event, opting to announce these innovations on its website through a series of online videos and marketing campaigns, expected in March or April.

    Anticipated releases include two iPad Pro models featuring the M3 chip, OLED displays, a thinner build, a landscape-oriented front camera, a redesigned rear camera bump, and the possibility of MagSafe wireless charging. Additionally, two new iPad Air models with the M2 chip, including a 12.9-inch variant, are expected. 

    A revamped Magic Keyboard for iPad Pro with a larger trackpad and other design enhancements is in the pipeline, along with new MacBook Air models sporting the M3 chip, Wi-Fi 6E, and Bluetooth 5.3 support.

    Further potential announcements encompass a new colour option for the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus, new colour choices for iPhone cases, and Apple Watch bands. 

    While rumours circulate about a new Apple TV and a screen-equipped HomePod in early 2024, their readiness remains uncertain.

    Speculations about a fourth-generation iPhone SE are also afoot, with a rumoured release timeframe of 2025.

  • Apple abandons electric car project, shifts focus to AI

    Apple abandons electric car project, shifts focus to AI

    In a surprising turn of events, Apple has officially terminated its ambitious electric car project, according to a reliable source informed about the matter.

    The decision, revealed on Tuesday, marks the end of a decade-long effort initiated by the tech giant to venture into the electric vehicle industry.

    The abandoned project aimed to propel Apple into a new sector, potentially mirroring the triumphs of its iconic iPhone.

    However, the venture faced challenges and inconsistent progress throughout its existence.

    The cancellation aligns with a broader trend in the automotive industry, where global players are scaling back investments in electric vehicles amid a substantial drop in demand.

    Reportedly, several team members previously engaged in the electric car project will be reassigned to Apple’s artificial intelligence (AI) division.

    This strategic move aligns with Apple’s commitment to bolstering its presence in AI, a domain where it has been comparatively reserved.

    Apple has refrained from significant AI initiatives, contrasting sharply with industry giants like Alphabet and Microsoft, which seized an early advantage in integrating this transformative technology.

    Concerns have arisen that Apple’s cautious approach may leave it lagging behind in infusing AI into its product lineup.

    Ben Bajarin, CEO of Creative Strategies, commented, “If it is true, Apple will put more focus on GenAI, and that should give investors more optimism about the company’s efforts and ability to compete at a platform level on AI.”

    Last year, Apple experienced the smallest share gain among the so-called Magnificent Seven stocks, reflecting apprehensions about its stance on AI.

    Microsoft recently surpassed Apple as the world’s most valuable company, underscoring Apple’s struggle with weakening demand for its key products, particularly in significant markets like China.

    Simultaneously, the electric vehicle industry faces a slowdown in demand due to elevated interest rates, leading to job cuts and reduced production.

    Apple’s shift in focus to AI reflects a strategic pivot in response to market dynamics and underscores the company’s commitment to staying at the forefront of technological innovation.

    Apple has chosen to adapt its trajectory in a rapidly evolving landscape, signalling a nuanced strategy that aligns with emerging industry trends.

  • Pakistani scientists introduce first calf born through IVF

    Pakistani scientists introduce first calf born through IVF

    University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences has announced the birth of the first Holstein Friesian (HF) calf by using In Vitro Embryo Production (IVEP) at the Training and Research Demonstration Farm, Ravi Campus, Pattoki, reports Dawn.


    Emeritus Professor and former UVAS VC Dr Naseem Ahmed announced the success at Pattoki campus on Tuesday, calling it the culmination of research and collaboration across departments. The process involved ovum pickup from pure Holstein Friesian specimens at the TRDF, followed by the UVAS embryology lab’s maturation, fertilisation, and culture of oocytes. Subsequently, the resulting embryo was transferred to a synchronised recipient, resulting in a successful pregnancy and the birth of a healthy calf.


    Department of Theriogenology and Embryology Chairman Dr Irfanur Rehman congratulated the embryology team, their guide Prof Dr Amjad Riaz, faculty members Dr Ali Husnain, Dr Talha Ashraf, and Dr Muhammad Yaseen, postgraduate students Dr Melaad and Muhammad Abdullah, researchers, technicians and staff.


    Prof Naseem Ahmad said that locally producing pure breed Holstein Friesian animals via IVEP not only lowers the expense of importing animals or embryos but also contributes to the nation’s sustainability while maintaining genetic integrity and milk production levels.

  • ChatGPT cranks out gibberish for hours

    ChatGPT cranks out gibberish for hours

    ChatGPT spewed nonsensical answers to user’s queries for hours Tuesday into Wednesday before eventually returning to its apparent senses.

    OpenAI did not explain what went awry with its generative artificial intelligence (AI) tool, considered the one to beat in the technology sector.

    “We are investigating reports of unexpected responses from ChatGPT,” OpenAI said on its status website when the software seemed to go wacky on Tuesday afternoon.

    ChatGPT was giving “peculiar” responses, generating nonexistent words, incomplete sentences and general gobbledygook, developers using the tool said in a discussion forum on the OpenAI website.

    “It gives me meaningless words followed by a bizarre list,” one developer lamented in the forum.

    “It feels as if my GPT is haunted or something has been compromised, either on my end or at OpenAI’s (end).”

    It wasn’t until more than 16 hours had passed that OpenAI updated the page with a message that ChatGPT was operating normally.

    The San Francisco based technology firm replied to an AFP query by directing it to the ChatGPT status page.

    OpenAI recently concluded a deal with investors that reportedly valued the start-up at $80 billion or more, after a roller-coaster year for the tech firm.

    The agreement, reported by the New York Times but not yet confirmed by OpenAI, would mean the value of the company — a world leader in generative AI — would have nearly tripled in under 10 months.

    OpenAI led a revolution in AI when it placed its ChatGPT program online in late 2022.

    The immediate success of the interface sparked tremendous interest in the cutting-edge technology, capable of producing text, sounds and images upon demand.

    OpenAI — which is also the maker of image-generating DALL-E — recently released a new tool named “Sora,” which can create realistic videos of up to a minute long via simple user prompts.

    Microsoft has invested some $13 billion in OpenAI, using the startup’s technology in Bing and other services.

    Microsoft is locked in fierce competition with Google to roll out new AI-infused tools, to the point that the US Federal Trade Commission in January launched an investigation into the enormous investments by Microsoft, Google and Amazon in such specialized start-ups.

  • Russia developing ‘space-based nuclear weapon’

    Russia developing ‘space-based nuclear weapon’

    Russia is reportedly building a nuclear space weapon that can disband the world’s commercial and government satellites, raising alarm bells across the world and especially in USA.


    American spy agencies are divided on whether Moscow would go so far, but the concern is urgent enough that Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken has asked China and India to try to talk Russia down, reports The New York Times.


    A new “national security threat” debate has taken over the United States Congress, indicating that Russia is reportedly building a nuclear space weapon that has the potential to disband a large portion of the world’s commercial and government satellites by producing a massive energy wave.


    This would disable all communication lines affecting cell phones, paying bills, as well as the internet.


    While not much is known about the weapon at this point, the system is described as a potential “space-based nuclear weapon” in several sources.


    However, it’s unclear if this refers to a nuclear bomb or a nuclear-powered gadget.


    White House National Security Communications Advisor John Kirby said the US is closely monitoring this Russian activity.


    President Joe Biden asserted: “There is no nuclear threat to the people of America or anywhere else in the world with what Russia is doing.”


    According to the New York Post, Russian spokesman Dmitry Peskov dodged the claims and responded by suggesting that the propaganda was a ruse to whip up support in Congress to take action.


    He said: “It is obvious that the White House is trying, by hook or by crook, to encourage Congress to vote on a bill to allocate money; this is obvious.”