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Delta Game Emulator Coming to iPad: What to Expect

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Good news for gaming enthusiasts! The popular Nintendo emulator, Delta, which recently made its debut on the App Store for iPhone, is now making its way to the iPad. Developer Riley Testut shared an exciting update on Threads, revealing that an iPad-optimized version of the Delta app is currently in the works and nearing completion.

Delta gained significant attention upon its release for iPhone, and now iPad users can look forward to experiencing their favorite Nintendo games on a larger screen. The iPad version of Delta is “near completion,” with Testut mentioning that it’s being prioritized following Apple’s recent change in policy regarding game emulators.

For those eager to try out the iPad version of Delta, subscribers to Testut’s Patreon can access it now through the AltStore, an alternative marketplace designed for sideloading iOS and iPadOS apps. Alternatively, users can patiently await the official release of Delta’s next major update, version 1.6, which will include support for iPad.

Testut also provided a sneak peek into how Delta will run on iPad, promising an immersive gaming experience. Delta serves as the successor to Testut’s popular Game Boy Advance emulator, GBA4iOS, and boasts compatibility with various Nintendo systems, including NES, SNES, N64, and DS.

The development team is currently fine-tuning the iPad version, focusing on tasks such as finalizing controller skins and addressing any remaining bugs. Additionally, they are working on implementing device-to-device multiplayer functionality, although this feature is still in the pipeline.

As an added bonus for gaming enthusiasts, Testut revealed that a SEGA Genesis emulator is also in development and expected to be available “soon-ish,” albeit still in beta. With these exciting updates on the horizon, fans of retro gaming can anticipate an enhanced gaming experience on their iPads with the arrival of Delta.

Google’s $2 Trillion Leap: AI Investments Pay Off Amidst Regulatory Challenges

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Over the past year, Google has confronted two significant challenges in its 25-year history: the emergence of generative AI and increasing regulatory scrutiny. The impact of AI has prompted substantial changes within the company, including significant alterations to its search algorithms, realignment of core teams around AI initiatives, and the launch of its own Gemini AI model to seize the opportunities presented.

To refocus its efforts, Google executives have implemented project cuts and staff layoffs. Recently, the company announced its inaugural dividend and a $70 billion share repurchase program alongside its Q1 2024 earnings report.

Investors have responded positively to these developments, propelling Google parent company Alphabet to officially attain and sustain a $2 trillion market capitalization for an entire trading day, following a brief touch of $2 trillion in November 2021. Currently, Google ranks as the fourth most valuable public company globally, trailing behind Nvidia, Apple, and Microsoft.

In contrast to Meta’s stock decline after Mark Zuckerberg’s remarks about the lengthy path to profitability in generative AI ventures, Google has begun to monetize AI in various ways. For instance, it has integrated AI capabilities into its Performance Max tool, enabling advertisers to target audiences more effectively. Additionally, companies like Discover Financial and Ikea are leveraging AI tools for call center operations and revenue optimization.

While Google remains cautious about disrupting its core search business, it acknowledges the potential for AI to enhance the search experience. Despite this, CEO Sundar Pichai reassures stakeholders that the company is adept at managing the costs associated with serving AI-generated queries.

Google’s existing business segments continue to perform well, with Q1 2024 revenue reaching $80.5 billion, a 15 percent increase year-over-year. Notably, profit margins also improved, yielding $23.7 billion in profit, a 14 percent increase compared to the previous quarter.

While Google undertook significant workforce reductions in recent months, recent financial reports suggest that layoffs may have tapered off. Despite an expenditure of $716 million on severance and related expenses during the first quarter, revenue growth remains robust across search, advertising, and other segments.

Looking ahead, Google aims to strengthen its position in the short-form video market, with a focus on YouTube Shorts. The platform has witnessed a surge in creator uploads and monetization rates, signaling promising growth prospects.

Google’s upcoming developer conference, Google I/O, scheduled for May 14th, is expected to shed further light on the company’s future initiatives and innovations.

Apple Resumes Talks with OpenAI for iPhone Chatbot

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Apple AI

Apple has reportedly resumed discussions with OpenAI, the developer behind ChatGPT, to incorporate certain AI capabilities into iOS 18, as per a recent Bloomberg report. Alongside developing its own large language models for iOS 18 features, Apple is exploring the possibility of utilizing OpenAI’s technology for a “chatbot/search component,” Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman states.

Additionally, Apple is said to be in talks with Google to potentially license Gemini, Google’s AI-driven chatbot, for integration into iOS 18. Gurman notes that negotiations with Google are ongoing, and Apple has yet to finalize its decision regarding which company’s technology to adopt. There’s a possibility that Apple might opt to license AI technology from both or neither of the companies.

While Apple has kept relatively silent about its AI initiatives compared to other tech giants, it has dropped hints indicating its focus on AI development. During Apple’s earnings announcement in February, CEO Tim Cook mentioned the company’s continued investment in artificial intelligence and teased forthcoming details about its endeavors in the space later in the year. Apple also touted its latest M3 MacBook Air as the “world’s best consumer laptop for AI” upon its release last month, hinting at future AI-centric releases for laptops and desktops. Furthermore, Apple recently made available several open-source large language models designed for local device usage rather than cloud-based processing.

The specifics of Apple’s AI features for iPhones and other devices remain unclear. Generative AI technology is known for its unreliability and tendency to provide inaccurate responses. Recent AI-powered gadgets, such as the Humane Ai Pin, received negative reviews, while others like the Rabbit R1 are yet to demonstrate their value.

More details about Apple’s AI initiatives are expected to be unveiled at the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) scheduled for June 10.

Prepare for Potential AI Requirement Alerts in Windows 11

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After recent revelations about new hardware prerequisites for the upcoming Windows 11 24H2 update, Microsoft appears poised to introduce a slew of innovative AI functionalities. A fresh report now indicates that the tech giant is integrating new code into the operating system to notify users if their systems fail to meet the minimum requirements for running AI-driven applications.

According to Albacore on X (formerly Twitter), devices that fall short of these requirements will display a watermark warning message. Upon scrutinizing the latest Windows 11 Insider Build 26200, Albacore uncovered coded prerequisites for an upcoming AI File Explorer feature. The stipulated minimum requirements include an ARM64 processor, 16GB of memory, 225GB of total storage, and a Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite NPU.

Reportedly named Advanced Copilot, the new AI File Explorer is poised to offer functionalities reminiscent of a modernized Cortana – the same app that was retired in August last year. While the choice of CPU may seem peculiar, Neowin speculates that the feature could be exclusive to new Surface devices or that Microsoft may plan to extend support to other PCs in the future. Interestingly, there is a workaround to bypass this check by simply disabling ID 48486440 on the RTM build.

This new hardware compatibility update follows the recent discovery of prerequisites related to the POPCNT and SSE 4.2 instruction sets. In essence, CPUs equipped with support for these instruction sets will be essential for booting Windows 11. As previously noted, Windows 11’s hardware compatibility excludes older CPUs, meaning users with compatible hardware should remain unaffected.

It’s worth emphasizing that Microsoft has yet to issue an official statement regarding the minimum hardware requirements for the Windows 11 24H2 update. The company is currently in the process of testing new features, some of which may or may not make it to the final release.

Apple Releases Open Source On-Device AI Models

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Apple AI

Apple has made a significant move in the field of artificial intelligence (AI) by releasing several open source large language models (LLMs) designed to run on-device, rather than relying on cloud servers. Known as OpenELM (Open-source Efficient Language Models), these LLMs are now available on the Hugging Face Hub, a platform dedicated to sharing AI code.

According to a white paper released by Apple, there are a total of eight OpenELM models, with four pre-trained using the CoreNet library and four instruction-tuned models. Apple employs a layer-wise scaling strategy aimed at enhancing both accuracy and efficiency.

Unlike previous practices that only provided model weights and inference code, Apple’s release includes the entire framework for training and evaluating the language model on publicly available datasets. This encompasses training logs, multiple checkpoints, and pre-training configurations.

Apple’s decision to release these OpenELM models is motivated by a desire to empower and enrich the open research community with state-of-the-art language models. By sharing open source models, researchers gain access to tools for investigating risks and addressing data and model biases, while developers and companies can utilize the models as-is or make modifications to suit their needs.

Furthermore, Apple’s move towards open sharing of information serves as a strategic tool for recruiting top talent in the field of AI. It provides opportunities for research papers that may not have been possible under Apple’s traditionally secretive policies.

While Apple has not yet implemented these AI capabilities on its devices, iOS 18 is anticipated to introduce a range of new AI features. There are also rumors suggesting that Apple plans to utilize its large language models on-device for enhanced privacy.

WhatsApp Introduces Passkeys for iOS: Enhanced Security and Convenience

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WhatsApp, owned by Meta, has unveiled a new feature for iOS users called passkeys. This functionality allows WhatsApp users to securely log into their accounts on iOS devices using Face ID, Touch ID, or their device passcode.

Passkeys act as a substitute for traditional passwords and provide enhanced security by requiring device authentication. This mechanism helps prevent online attacks such as phishing attempts since there is no password to steal or intercept. Instead, users can swiftly log in with a quick Face ID or Touch ID scan, making the process more convenient and secure.

To enable passkeys, users can navigate to the app settings, select the Account section, and tap on “Passkeys.” This feature is supported on devices running iOS 16 and later, iPadOS 16 and later, and macOS Ventura and later.

Several other major companies, including X (formerly Twitter), Google, TikTok, PayPal, Best Buy, Microsoft, PlayStation, and eBay, have also implemented support for passkeys, showcasing the growing trend towards enhancing security and convenience for users across various platforms.

Navigating Nairobi: A Guide to Cab App Prices in Kenya

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In bustling Nairobi, getting around efficiently is key to seizing the day and conquering the urban jungle. With the rise of cab-hailing apps, commuting has never been more convenient. But how do these apps stack up in terms of pricing? Let’s take a closer look at the estimated prices of popular cab apps in Kenya’s capital:

Uber

Uber is known for its widespread availability and reliable service. It offers competitive pricing based on distance, time, and demand. Expect to pay a base fare of around 100 Kenyan Shillings (KES), a per-minute rate around KES 4, and a per-kilometer rate around KES 60. Additionally, surge pricing may apply during peak hours or high-demand periods, which can multiply the fare by up to 4 times.

Bolt (formerly Taxify)

Bolt offers competitive rates with a similar structure to Uber’s. They typically have a base fare of KES 100, a per-minute rate around KES 5 (slightly higher than Uber), and a per-kilometer rate around KES 50 (slightly lower than Uber). Keep an eye out for promotional discounts and special offers on the Bolt app.

Little Cab

Little Cab provides transparency in pricing, with rates based on distance and time. They are generally considered a budget-friendly option. While exact fares can vary, estimates suggest their base fare might be around KES 100, with per-kilometer rates potentially lower than KES 50. Frequent users can enjoy loyalty rewards and discounts through the app.

Mondo Ride

Similar to Little Cab, Mondo Ride offers competitive prices with transparent fares based on distance and time. Look out for promotional offers on the app for additional savings. Exact fares can vary, but estimates suggest their base fare might be around KES 100 and per-kilometer rates could be around KES 55-60.

SafeBoda

SafeBoda offers competitive pricing for their cab services alongside their motorcycle taxis. They focus on transparent fare estimates and real-time tracking. While specific figures are difficult to find, they are generally considered a budget-friendly option.

Wasili & Fone Taxi

Both Wasili and Fone Taxi are relatively new entrants in the market, but they are gaining traction with competitive prices and user-friendly apps. While exact fare structures might not be widely available, they are likely to be in the same ballpark as Little Cab and Mondo Ride, offering budget-conscious options for Nairobi commuters.

Comparison of Cab App Pricing in Nairobi (Estimates)

FeatureUberBoltLittle CabMondo RideSafeBodaWasiliFone Taxi
Base FareKES 100KES 100KES 100 (est.)KES 100 (est.)CompetitiveCompetitiveCompetitive
Per Minute RateKES 4KES 5CompetitiveCompetitiveCompetitive
Per Kilometer RateKES 60KES 50Less than KES 50 (est.)KES 55-60 (est.)CompetitiveCompetitiveCompetitive
Surge PricingYesYesNoNoNoLikely NoLikely No
Promotional OffersYesYesYesYesPotentiallyPotentiallyPotentially

In conclusion, the prices of cab apps in Kenya vary depending on several factors. However, all the options mentioned provide a range of fare structures that cater to different budgets and needs. It’s always recommended to use the app’s fare estimate feature before booking a ride to get a more accurate idea of the cost. With a variety of cab apps available, Nairobi residents and visitors can enjoy a convenient and affordable way to navigate the city.

The Best Matatu Apps to Easily Navigate Nairobi’s Bustling Streets

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Hey there, Nairobi commuter! Tired of waiting endlessly for matatus or getting lost in the maze of Nairobi’s bustling streets? Say goodbye to commuting woes and hello to convenience with these top Matatu apps designed to make your journey smoother than ever.

Ma3Route:
Ma3Route is your ultimate companion for navigating Nairobi’s hectic traffic and matatu routes. This crowd-sourced platform provides real-time traffic updates, matatu schedules, and route information, ensuring you’re always in the know about the best way to reach your destination.

MyRide Kenya:
MyRide Kenya is your one-stop-shop for planning your matatu journey in Nairobi. With its user-friendly interface and comprehensive route maps, you can easily find the nearest matatu stage, check fare prices, and track the arrival time of your matatu in real-time.

Flare:
Flare goes beyond just matatu tracking – it’s your personal safety companion for commuting in Nairobi. In addition to providing matatu routes and schedules, Flare offers emergency response services, allowing you to request assistance in case of emergencies or accidents during your commute.

Swvl:
Swvl revolutionizes the matatu experience with its modern and convenient bus-hailing service. Simply book your seat on a Swvl bus through the app, and enjoy a comfortable and hassle-free ride to your destination at affordable prices. Say goodbye to overcrowded matatus and hello to stress-free commuting with Swvl.

Matatu:
Matatu is another great app for navigating Nairobi’s matatu routes and schedules. With its intuitive interface and up-to-date information on matatu fares and routes, you can plan your journey with ease and confidence, ensuring you reach your destination on time, every time.

Matwana Matatu Culture:
Matwana Matatu Culture is more than just a matatu app – it’s a celebration of Nairobi’s vibrant matatu culture. In addition to providing route maps and schedules, Matwana Matatu Culture showcases the unique designs and artistry of Nairobi’s matatus, giving you a glimpse into the city’s colorful transportation scene.

Matatu Kenya
Matatu Kenya offers a comprehensive platform for planning your matatu commute in Nairobi. From route maps and schedules to fare prices and travel tips, Matatu Kenya has everything you need to navigate Nairobi’s matatu network with confidence and ease.

With these top Matatu apps at your fingertips, commuting in Nairobi has never been easier. Say goodbye to long waits and uncertainty, and hello to smooth and stress-free journeys across the city. So go ahead, download your favorite Matatu app today and get ready to navigate Nairobi like a pro!

How to Stay Productive While Working Remotely in Nigeria

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Photo by Brandy Kennedy on Unsplash

Working remotely in Nigeria comes with its own set of challenges, but with the right strategies and tools, you can maintain productivity and efficiency from the comfort of your home. Here are some effective tips tailored to the Nigerian context to help you stay on top of your game while working remotely.

First and foremost, it’s crucial to establish a dedicated workspace within your home. Creating a designated area free from distractions can significantly improve focus and productivity. Consider personalizing your workspace with Nigerian-inspired decor or elements to make it more conducive to work.

Setting clear work hours aligned with Nigerian time zones is essential for maintaining boundaries between work and personal time. Communicate your availability to colleagues and clients to ensure everyone is on the same page regarding when you’re actively working and when you’re off-duty.

To stay organized and prioritize tasks effectively, consider using productivity apps like Trello or Asana to create to-do lists and manage your workload. These apps allow you to break down tasks, set deadlines, and collaborate with team members seamlessly.

Incorporate Nigerian time management techniques into your workflow to maximize productivity. The “Pomodoro Technique,” adapted to suit Nigerian work rhythms, involves working in focused intervals with short breaks in between. Additionally, embrace the concept of “African Time” by setting realistic deadlines and respecting time commitments.

Minimizing distractions is crucial for maintaining focus while working remotely. Inform family members or housemates of your work schedule and the importance of uninterrupted work time. Consider using noise-cancelling headphones or background sounds inspired by Nigerian nature to create a conducive work environment.

Stay connected with Nigerian colleagues through virtual meetings, calls, or messaging platforms like Zoom or Slack. Schedule Nigerian-themed virtual coffee breaks or informal catch-up sessions to maintain camaraderie and team spirit, even from a distance.

Taking regular breaks is essential for avoiding burnout and maintaining productivity. Incorporate Nigerian-inspired relaxation techniques, such as brief walks or stretches, during breaks to rejuvenate your mind and body. You can also indulge in Nigerian snacks or beverages to provide a taste of home while replenishing energy.

Leverage Nigerian tech solutions to streamline your remote work experience. Explore productivity apps or platforms developed by Nigerian companies, such as InstaPlan for project management or Workstation for virtual office solutions. Utilize reliable Nigerian internet service providers to ensure seamless connectivity and minimize disruptions during work hours.

Join Nigerian remote work communities or forums to connect with like-minded professionals and exchange tips and support. Engage in virtual networking events or workshops with a Nigerian theme to stay connected and motivated while working remotely.

Lastly, prioritize self-care and work-life balance to maintain overall well-being. Incorporate Nigerian wellness practices into your daily routine, such as meditation or traditional relaxation techniques, to alleviate stress and promote mental wellness. Remember to establish boundaries between work and personal time to ensure a healthy balance.

By implementing these strategies and utilizing helpful apps tailored to the Nigerian context, you can navigate the challenges of remote work with ease and maintain high levels of productivity and efficiency while embracing the vibrant spirit of Nigeria.

Lastly, don’t forget to show yourself some love. Practice those Nigerian wellness rituals – meditation, deep breaths, or a dash of self-love. Balance work with play, because you, my dear, deserve it all!

How to Develop a Strong Password Strategy: African Edition

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In a world where our digital footprint is ever-expanding, securing our online presence is paramount. Crafting a robust password strategy is fundamental to this endeavor. Here’s your guide to creating a strong password strategy uniquely adapted for the African context, blending various African characters and incorporating elements of diverse languages.

1. Embrace Length and Diversity:

  • Aim for passwords with a minimum of 12 characters, combining characters from diverse African languages.
  • Mix uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols, including special characters.

2. Avoid Personal Information:

  • Steer clear of using easily accessible information such as birthdays or names in any African language.
  • Opt for combinations that aren’t directly linked to your personal life or easily guessable linguistic elements.

3. Unique Passwords for Each Account:

  • Resist the temptation to reuse passwords across different platforms, employing a mix of African language characters.
  • Consider leveraging the rich linguistic diversity by incorporating words or phrases from various African languages.

4. Regularly Update Your Passwords:

  • Set a routine for changing your passwords, ideally every three to six months, incorporating new linguistic elements.
  • Updating passwords not only adds a layer of security but also introduces a linguistic flair inspired by African languages.

5. Use Passphrases with African Flair:

  • Create memorable phrases by combining words from diverse African languages.
  • Incorporate a mix of African characters, numbers, and symbols for a unique and secure passphrase.

6. Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) with African Touch:

  • Enable 2FA, receiving a code on your mobile device or email, adding an extra layer with African characters.
  • Use numbers inspired by African cultural symbols for the second factor in authentication.

7. Be Wary of Phishing Attempts:

  • Avoid clicking on suspicious links or providing login details through unfamiliar websites, regardless of the language.
  • Double-check the URL’s authenticity in any African script before entering login information.

8. Educate Your Network with Cultural Sensitivity:

  • Share password security practices with friends, family, and colleagues, acknowledging the cultural diversity.
  • Encourage the use of diverse characters inspired by African scripts for stronger passwords.

9. Monitor Account Activity:

  • Regularly review your account activity for any unauthorized access, staying vigilant in any African dialect.
  • Swiftly address any suspicious activities, ensuring a linguistic defense against potential security breaches.

10. Stay Informed on Cybersecurity Trends with an African Lens:

  • Keep abreast of the latest cybersecurity developments with a focus on the African tech landscape.
  • Adapt your password strategy with linguistic nuances inspired by evolving threats in the African digital realm.

By incorporating linguistic elements from various African languages, your password strategy not only becomes more secure but also celebrates the rich cultural tapestry of our continent. Strengthening our digital defenses can be a creative and inclusive journey, one that reflects the diversity of languages and characters across Africa.

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