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  • Apple’s iOS 17 unveiled: A sneak peek at the game-changing features

    Apple’s iOS 17 unveiled: A sneak peek at the game-changing features

    Every autumn, Apple enthusiasts eagerly anticipate the company’s annual iPhone launch event. This year, on Tuesday, September 12, Apple is expected to unveil its latest offerings, including the highly anticipated iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro, and iPhone 15 Pro Max. However, the excitement doesn’t end with the hardware announcements; the real magic lies in the new software that will accompany these devices.

    But here’s the kicker – the joy of the new software won’t be limited to just the latest models. Apple is extending its digital embrace to a range of current iPhones, specifically those from the iPhone Xs onward. The question on everyone’s mind is, when can we get our hands on this exciting new software, and how can we make the most of it without spending a dime?

    The iOS 17 update brings a plethora of features and enhancements that promise to elevate the iPhone experience. Let’s take a closer look at some of the highlights:

    1. Customised Calling: Ever wished you could personalise what people see when you call them? With iOS 17, you can do just that, adding a touch of flair to your phone conversations.

    2. Live Stickers: Unleash your creativity with Live Stickers, crafted from your photo library. Express yourself in new and exciting ways during chats and messages.

    3. StandBy Mode: Charging your iPhone? Say hello to StandBy, a full-screen experience that keeps you engaged while you wait. It’s a game-changer for those moments when your device needs some juice.

    4. Enhanced Widgets: Widgets are getting even better. Expect more customisation options and increased functionality to streamline your daily tasks.

    5. NameDrop: Swapping contact details has never been simpler. NameDrop allows you to effortlessly exchange numbers with others, making networking a breeze.

    6. Improved Autocorrect: Autocorrect is stepping up its game. Not only will it correct your typos, but it can even learn your unique way of expressing yourself, including the occasional swear word.

    7. Offline Maps: Heading to places with limited connectivity? iOS 17 has got you covered with downloadable offline maps, ensuring you won’t get lost even when you’re off the grid.

    These are just a few of the exciting features that iOS 17 has in store. The sheer breadth of improvements and innovations is enough to make your head spin.

    Currently, iOS 17 is in its beta testing phase, with two different versions available – one for developers and one for the general public. Developer betas have been in circulation since June, shortly after the software was announced at the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC). As of now, iOS 17 has reached beta 8, indicating that Apple is fine-tuning this software to ensure a seamless user experience.

    Apple’s iOS 17 update is poised to bring a wave of excitement and enhanced functionality to iPhone users, both old and new. With a wide range of innovative features and improvements, it’s a testament to Apple’s commitment to providing cutting-edge technology to its loyal user base. As we await the official release, the countdown to experiencing iOS 17’s wonders begins.

  • Privacy concerns mount as X reveals intent to employ user data for AI training

    Privacy concerns mount as X reveals intent to employ user data for AI training

    The social media platform formerly known as Twitter has recently faced scrutiny following reports by Bloomberg, revealing plans to gather biometric data, job information, and educational backgrounds from its users. A newly-released privacy policy confirms that ‘X’ intends to utilise this data, along with other personal information it collects, for the purpose of training machine learning algorithms, as first observed by Alex Ivanovs at Stackdiary.

    The privacy policy explicitly states that the company will employ the information it gathers, in combination with publicly accessible data, to support the training of its machine learning and artificial intelligence models. Elon Musk has acknowledged this change but has assured users that only publicly available information will be collected, excluding private messages.

    Notably, ‘X’ doesn’t have any publicly declared AI ambitions, but its owner, Elon Musk, does. He recently launched a company called ‘xAI,’ which aims to explore the fundamental aspects of the universe. This suggests a potential link between users’ biometric data and Musk’s ambitious scientific pursuits, as indicated on the xAI homepage, which mentions collaboration with ‘X’ to advance their shared mission.

    Another plausible scenario is Musk’s expressed desire to challenge LinkedIn, a platform he has criticised as “cringe.” ‘X’ appears to be collecting job and education histories from its user base, aligning with Musk’s vision for a more appealing professional networking platform.

    Lastly, there is the possibility that ‘X’ might consider selling user data to boost its revenue, given its limited advertising income. However, it’s essential to note that there is currently no concrete evidence to support this theory, and historically, Twitter primarily used collected user data for its own benefit rather than sharing it with third parties.

  • Food outlets sealed in Rawalpindi

    The district administration in Rawalpindi has on Friday sealed Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC) and OMG outlets in Chaklala Scheme-III and Askari-3 for using spoiled meat and poor hygiene in kitchens, reports Dawn News.

    Assistant Commissioner Cantonment Qandeel Fatima Memon sealed KFC Scheme 3 when she received a complaint that a steel wire was found in the fillet of a burger. The restaurant was sealed after the confirmation of the genuinity of the complaint.

    The outlets have been given a warning and told to oversee their kitchen staff and food preparation.
    OMG Restaurant in Askari 3 was sealed during the second raid.

    Commissioner Memon spoke with Dawn, stating that she received a complaint about OMG about smelly burgers. Resultantly, their kitchen was raided and the condition of the kitchen turned out to be “pathetic, as there were cockroaches everywhere and the jars laid without a lid so the restaurant was sealed”.

    She added that the food outlets had to obtain medical examination certificates from the district health authority and that it was mandatory for the food outlets to get the medical test of the chefs and workers twice a year and obtain medical reports from government hospitals.

    She also said the provincial government had directed to take strict measures against putting people’s lives at risk and she plans on conducting more surprise visits in the cantonment areas in coming days.

    Assistant Commissioner Cantonment Qandeel Fatima Memon stated that district administration Rawalpindi is available to look after its people and to ensure that clean and healthy food is served to people of the district, reports Dawn.

  • Inflation in Pakistan stays above 27% despite IMF reforms

    Inflation in Pakistan stays above 27% despite IMF reforms

    Pakistan continues to grapple with soaring inflation, with the rate holding steady at 27.4 per cent in August, according to data released on Friday. This persistent inflationary pressure is partially attributed to the reforms mandated as part of the IMF loan agreement, which have complicated efforts to stabilise prices and curb declines in the national currency, the rupee.

    The South Asian nation is treading cautiously on its path to economic recovery, with a caretaker government at the helm following the approval of a $3 billion loan programme by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) in July, averting a potential sovereign debt default.

    However, the conditions tied to this bailout, including the relaxation of import restrictions and the removal of subsidies, have contributed to a surge in annual inflation. In May, inflation reached a staggering 38.0 per cent, setting a new record. Concurrently, interest rates have risen, and the rupee has experienced historic lows, with a 6.2 per cent decline in the currency’s value last month.

    While the August data from Pakistan’s statistics bureau indicates a slight easing from July’s 28.3 per cent inflation rate, food inflation remains alarmingly high at 38.5 per cent. Authorities have further exacerbated the situation by raising gasoline and diesel prices to record highs on Friday.

    These worsening economic conditions, coupled with escalating political tensions ahead of a national election scheduled for November, have triggered sporadic protests. Jamaat-e-Islami has announced a nationwide strike in response to the increased power tariffs.

    Every day, Pakistanis are feeling the pinch and struggling to make ends meet. Waseem Ahmed, a bank employee in Islamabad, lamented the plight of the middle class, stating, “More than 60 to 70 per cent of my salary is spent on bills and petrol. Where will we get basic staples from? This is why people are contemplating suicide,” he told Reuters.

    According to ARY News, Mohammed Sohail, CEO of Topline Securities, a Karachi-based brokerage firm, acknowledged that August’s inflation reading aligns with expectations. However, he cautioned that the depreciating rupee and rising energy prices may prevent a significant year-on-year decline in inflation, contrary to earlier government projections that had anticipated a drop to 22 per cent by the end of the fiscal year running until June 31.

    Pakistan’s central bank, in its last monetary policy statement in July, held benchmark interest rates steady at 22 per cent and expressed optimism that inflation would follow a downward trajectory over the ensuing 12 months. However, the current economic challenges present formidable hurdles to achieving that goal.

  • Asia Cup 2023: Pakistan vs India

    Asia Cup 2023: Pakistan vs India

    LIVE UPDATES

    India vs Pakistan match has been called off due to rain. We saw some brilliant cricket in the first half as Pakistan’s fast bowlers got the better of Indian batters at the beginning and the end of the innings. In between, Hardik Pandya and Ishan Kishan, played, arguably, their best ODI innings to date. But the rain had the final say. It was expected to delay the start, but the match started on time. The radar for the evening was clear but, as Babar said last evening, Sri Lanka weather is unpredictable.

    India bowled out by Pakistan for 266 in 48.5 overs. Hardik Pandya was top scorer with 87 runs in the first inning while Shaheen Afridi took 4 wickets.

    INDIA 252/8 (46 Overs)

    Right after the much needed wicket of Hardik Pandya, Shaheen Shah Afridi takes Jadeja’s wicket and on his first ball of 45th over Naseem succeeds in getting Shardul’s wicket.

    INDIA 127/4 (25 Overs)

    INDIA 108/4 (21 Overs)

    Shubman Gill bowled out by Haris Rauf

    INDIA 76/4 (15.1 Overs)

    Indian batsman Shubman Gill has been bowled out by a blistering Haris Rauf delivery on the first ball of the 14th over.

    Hardik Pandaya has come in to bat with India now four wickets down.

    Rain interrupts play again

    Rain has once again interrupted the Asia Cup 2023 Pakistan-India match.

    Covers have been pulled out while players have left for their dressing rooms.

    This is the second rain interruption in the match. More rain has been forecast for later in the night.

    INDIA 51/3 (11.3 Overs)

    India lose three wickets in 10 overs

    Pakistan got three wickets of Indian batters inside of the first 10 overs of the Asia Cup 2023 clash between the arch-rivals. Shaheen Afridi took two crucial wickets — Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, while Haris Rauf took Shreyas Iyer’s wicket.

    INDIA 48/3 (10 Overs)

    INDIA 42/2 (8 Overs)

    Rain in Kandy

    Pakistan-India match was delayed for a bit due to rain in Kandy, Sri Lanka.

    India is at 15/0 after 4.2 overs.

    India wins the toss, chooses to bat first

    India has won the crucial toss in the match with Pakistan and chosen to bat first.

    The Indian team’s decision came right after light rain came down on Pallekele stadium.

    Fears of the match getting a delayed start have been out to rest for now, however, there is still a chance of rain later in the day.

  • Wife stoned to death in DG Khan over ‘honour’

    Wife stoned to death in DG Khan over ‘honour’

    A married woman from the Alkani tribe has been allegedly killed by her husband and his allies over ‘honour’. According to Dawn News, the stoning took place in the limits of Chucha Border Military Police (BMP) station in the tribal area of Rajanpur district.

    Local sources have said that the woman was accused of adultery with a man, leading to her husband killing her, along with her brother-in-law and their accomplice. They reportedly smashed her head with stones and clubs.

    While the woman died, the suspects managed to flee the scene.

    According to Dawn News, the BMP in Chucha tribal area has filed a case against the suspects under different sections of the Pakistan Penal Code, including 302 (murder), 148 (rioting armed with deadly weapon), 149 (unlawful assembly), and 311 (punishment for murder if act taking place in order to facilitate the commission of a crime).

    The sources also highlighted a case from about two years ago when a woman was subjected to a tribal ritual locally called Aus (trial by fire) Auf (trial by water) in which an accused person walks on burning coals to prove his or her innocence or remains underwater, for the duration of their breath.

    The woman back then had successfully walked on burning coals without suffering burns on her feet, thus proving her innocence.

    Political Assistant Qasim Gill confirmed to Dawn that BMP teams are conducting raids to apprehend the escaped suspects.

  • Mariam Ansari is not okay with holier-than-thou comments on her pregnancy shoot

    Mariam Ansari is not okay with holier-than-thou comments on her pregnancy shoot

    Kuch behtar nahi hai apni zindagi mein karne kay liye than to think that a happy pregnant woman is doing something wrong with her life?

    Pakistanis are used to watching unhappy women both on screens and in their lives. When they watch a woman celebrating a pregnancy or being happy in her marriage, they see it as a sign that she needs to be reminded of how miserable life actually is.

    When actress Mariam Ansari shared pictures of her pregnancy shoot announcing the birth of her daughter, several commentators were overjoyed and congratulated the couple. Then there were those who thought qayamat has started early because a woman shared her baby bump on the internet.

    There were A LOT of absurd comments shaming the actress for sharing pictures of her baby bump, a normal thing every woman goes through. Like this one cynic wrote:

    “Allah ko kia muh Deko ge behn Kuch cheze prde mei ache lgte he tm log ku apna Deen khrb kr rhe ho behaye phla rhe ho kuch shrm kro Allah se dro.”

    Pregnancy is a natural, beautiful thing that happens to every woman, baji. Wo kya gunah kar rahi hai kay wo isko chupa kar rakhay?

    Mariam eventually responded with a video where she slammed the haters in a video, expressing her frustration at the unnecessary hate piled on to her for simply sharing pictures of her baby bump:

     “Oh my god, the amount of hate I have received on my pregnancy pictures just shows…what do I even say? What do I say?”

     “It’s my profile; my choice. I’ve even had my child. It’s my choice whatever I post. If you don’t like it, you shouldn’t follow me. I don’t understand, since when is being pregnant some sort of badtameezi or behayai. You too were born just like this, so what?”

    The actress also pointed out how hypocrtical Pakistani society was:

     “You’ll watch Katrina Kaif dance, you’ll ‘like’ Nora’s pictures. But if a Pakistani actress who is fully dressed reveals her pregnancy, then, ‘oh my god, Astaghfirullah.’ I mean, if you were really all that great and you saw someone was pregnant, you’d congratulate them; you’d send prayers their way.”

    Sending our prayers and congratulations to Mariam and her husband for their bundle of joy, and honestly we hope Pakistani society could learn some manners and stop poking their hypocritical noses into anyone’s business.

  • Imaan Mazari gets bail in terrorism case

    Imaan Mazari gets bail in terrorism case

    Human rights activist and lawyer Imaan Mazari has been granted bail on Saturday by an Islamabad anti-terrorism court in a new terrorism case.

    The bail has been granted three days after she was handed over to the Islamabad Police on physical remand in connection with a criminal complaint brought against her at the Barakahu police station in the federal capital.

    The decision was made by ATC Judge Abual Hasnat Zulqarnain, who granted bail to the arrested attorney with a Rs 10,000 surety bond.

    Imaan and Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM) leader Ali Wazir’s bails in a sedition case relating to contentious statement against state institutions were quickly allowed by an ATC judge. Imaan was then detained in a new terror case from outside the Adiala jail in Rawalpindi.

  • How did Zoya Akhat prep ‘The Archies’ actors for the film?

    How did Zoya Akhat prep ‘The Archies’ actors for the film?

    Famed Indian director Zoya Akhtar is set to release her Netflix film ‘The Archies’ on December 7 on the streaming giant. The film stars babies from all the royal acting families of Bollywood: Suhana Khan, Khushi Kapoor, Vedang Raina, Agastya Nanda, Mihir Ahuja, Aditi Saigal and Yuvraj Menda. In an interview with Vogue, the ‘Made In Heaven’ creator opened up about how she prepped all the newcomers for the film and how they became close friends with one another.

    Speaking to Vogue, Akhtar said she set up an intense boot camp, and made the actors go through acting workshops, dance training and everything else.

    “I wanted them to be comfortable from the get-go. There are 200 people on set, there’s a camera in your face and you have to go up and perform when the word ‘action’ is said. It’s daunting.”

    She added, “I wanted them to be over all of that by the time they came to set, so it was very important for them to get along with one another. There was this big boot camp where they had dance classes, acting workshops and cinematography training.”

    Zoya also revealed she was happy the actors became close friends with each other, and hoped they championed each other through the course of their careers:

    “I hope they champion each other throughout the course of their respective careers because they’ve been so good – they’ve been good for each other and they’ve been good with each other.”

    When the trailer was released on social media platforms, many criticised how all the actors came from acting families, and the fact that all the characters were fair skinned and didn’t look Indian. Speaking to Mid-Day at TUDUM, Zoya addressed the backlash saying:

    “Why do you think that? They’re all Indian. This is kind of reverse (racism). Are you saying fair Indians are not Indians? How do we define what an Indian looks like? It could be Hrithik Roshan, it could be Mr. Rajinikanth, it could be Diljit Dosanjh, it could be Mary Kom. That’s the beauty of India. There are a lot of Indians that are light-skinned.”

  • PIA’s controversial decision: UK staff appointments on high salaries amid financial crisis

    PIA’s controversial decision: UK staff appointments on high salaries amid financial crisis

    In a recent development, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has come under scrutiny for making new staff appointments in the United Kingdom (UK) despite grappling with a severe financial crisis and a three-year ban on direct flights to the United Kingdom (UK).

    According to ARY News, the national flag carrier, PIA, has faced mounting challenges in recent years, with the ban on direct flights to the UK being a significant blow to its operations. Despite these challenges, the airline has proceeded to appoint officers and staff members with substantial salaries.

    Notably, the PIA country manager has been appointed with an annual salary of £70,000, while the passenger sales manager and finance manager will each receive £55,000 annually. Furthermore, a manager has been assigned to the Manchester station with a yearly compensation package of £55,000, coupled with other perks.

    Responding to these appointments and the ongoing financial crisis, a PIA spokesperson explained that the airline has continued its flight operations in the UK by collaborating through code-sharing agreements with Turkish Airlines, which generates an annual revenue of £14 million. The spokesperson emphasised that a mere 1.8% of these earnings are allocated to PIA staff in the UK.

    The PIA spokesperson also expressed optimism about the resumption of direct flight operations between Pakistan and the UK, citing this as a reason for the recent appointments of the country manager and sales manager.

    However, the controversy surrounding PIA deepened when the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) froze the airline’s bank accounts due to non-payment of more than Rs8 billion in taxes. A total of 26 bank accounts belonging to the national carrier have been locked by the FBR.

    The FBR revealed that PIA had pledged to settle Rs2 billion in dues under Federal Excise Duty in August, but it failed to honour this commitment, leading to the account freeze.

    Despite this financial setback, the PIA spokesperson reassured the public that the closure of bank accounts would not disrupt Pakistan International Airlines’ flight operations. The airline remains committed to maintaining its services in the UK while navigating this challenging period.

    As the situation unfolds, stakeholders and industry observers continue to monitor PIA’s financial stability and the progress towards the resumption of direct flights between Pakistan and the UK.