Asia Most Exposed To Disasters, Africa Most Vulnerable: Study

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Mar 24, 2016

Countries and mega-cities across Asia are highly exposed to natural hazards ranging from cyclones to earthquakes, but people in sub-Saharan Africa are more vulnerable, according to a report released Wednesday.

Nearly 1.4 billion people in South Asia — India, Bangladesh, Pakistan — face at least one major threat from Nature, especially flooding, severe storms boosted by rising seas, and quakes.

In the case of Bangladesh, 100 percent of its population is exposed, compared to 82 percent for India and 70 percent in Pakistan.

China, Indonesia, Japan and the Philippines are also among the nations with the largest numbers of people in harm’s way.

The United States, Mexico and Brazil round out the top ten. When it comes to vulnerability, however, Africa is the continent where people are most likely to suffer injury, disease and death as a result of natural disasters, according to the Natural Hazards Vulnerability Index from risk analysts Verisk Maplecroft.

The capacity to cope with a disaster can determine whether a high-magnitude earthquake, for example, will cause hundreds of deaths as happened in Chile in 2010, or hundreds of the thousands as befell Haiti in the same year.

Nine out of ten countries ranked as most vulnerable to natural hazards in the index are in sub-Saharan Africa, and 23 of 25 are on the continent.

South Sudan — plagued by drought and war — heads the list of the countries most defenceless against disaster, followed by Burundi, Afghanistan, Eritrea, Chad, Niger, Sudan, Mali and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

“The frequency and magnitude of natural hazard events cannot be controlled,” the report noted.

“But the development and implementation of disaster risk reduction strategies can help minimise the humanitarian and economic impacts.”

Among mega-cities, Manila — facing a triple threat from cyclones, super storms and earthquakes — tops the list of urban areas with the highest number of people exposed.

Tokyo and Jakarta and in second and third place, with Dongguan in southern China, Dhaka and Kolkata following close behind.

Mexico City, Delhi and Sao Paulo all have huge populations exposed to major storms.

“This analysis shows that governance is key to lower vulnerability,” the report said.

Without major reforms and political stability, “countries such as India and the Philippines are unlikely to see improvements in the near term.”

Brussel Attack: Several Blasts at Airport & Metro Station

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Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice Movie Complete Trailers Before Release

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AFP

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Mar 24, 2016

With “Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice” rolling out the week of March 25, we sift through six of the superhero film’s biggest trailers; the adventurous can see if they can correctly piece together the film’s true plot, despite Warner Bros’ apparent trailer-cutting cleverness.

Official Teaser Trailer – April 17, 2015

Who is Superman – a benevolent force for good, or an interfering alien with the power to destroy the world? Meanwhile, Bruce Wayne could be the “good man turned cruel” that the millionaire’s butler, Alfred, warns him about, and we are introduced to a suit of heavy armor that appears to make Batman a match for Superman.

Comic-Con Trailer – Jul 11, 2015

An alternative angle on the ending of Superman’s last outing, “Man of Steel,” emerges as Superman attends a hostile senatorial hearing and we see Bruce Wayne witness the collapse of his business’s tower block. “We have to destroy him,” he vows. Lex Luthor, at least, seems very excited at the prospect of a Batman / Superman face-off.

Exclusive Sneak – Nov 30, 2015

Batman, trussed up inside a sand-filled underground lair, is unmasked by a sneering Superman. Isn’t it usually Batman that does the sneering? This scene, among others, helps fuel fan speculation that a nightmare vision of the future convinces Batman to take down Superman.

Official Trailer 2 – Dec 2, 2015

Greater context for the film’s events — perhaps too much, some say — implying that the title “Batman v. Superman” may be disguising the film’s real direction. True, Clark Kent and Bruce Wayne don’t exactly hit it off, but the trailer ends with Batman, Superman, and Wonder Woman facing off against an even bigger threat courtesy of Lex Luthor. Warner Bros backtracks in future clips, images and teases.

Official Final Trailer – Feb 14, 2016

Plenty of new material in this wrap-up that homes in on the conflict between two superheros, while also expanding on the role of Diana Prince / Wonder Woman. Two sandy split-second clips provide further intrigue for comic book experts, perhaps a hint at wider plans for Warner Bros’ upcoming run of DC adaptations.

Gotham Trailer – March 21, 2016

Aired during an episode of Batman origin series “Gotham,” this recent treatment provides familial motivations for Bruce Wayne. By contrast, knight-suited Batman is sounding far too psychotic for his own good, while at a high-society function, Diana Prince tells Wayne that little boys should learn to share.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UMltUXZkPUM&feature=youtu.be

Facebook Testing New Feature To Reduce Online Harassment

By

AFP

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Mar 24, 2016

Facebook is working to tackle harassment on its social media platform, reports Mashable. The network is in the process of testing a new feature that automatically alerts users if another person is using their name or profile.

If it finds that someone is impersonating another user, Facebook will send an immediate alert, asking users to confirm whether someone else was using their account.

Facebook is working to make its social network safer

The feature, which Facebook began testing back in November, is now available in around 75 percent of the world. The company intends to expand its availability in the near future.

Profile impersonation, while not a widespread problem on Facebook, does affect many users, especially women in various regions of the world. The new feature is part of Facebook’s attempt to make the social network more safe for users.

Global Smartphone Sale Rises to 1.3 Billion in 2015

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World T20’s Unstoppable Rise Fuels Fears for Test Matches

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AFP

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Mar 24, 2016

As he joined the sell-out crowd for a Twenty20 match at the home of Indian cricket, Kaushal Loday said he wouldn’t have come if the game was a Test.

“I’m not interested in five-day cricket, it’s too long,” said Loday outside Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium, ahead of a showdown between India and South Africa.

“T20‘s more entertaining. We like seeing sixes and fours.”

The success of the ongoing World Twenty20 should be cause for celebration for administrators, with millions of TV viewers and packed houses enjoying batting pyrotechnics from the likes of Chris Gayle and AB de Villiers.

But while T20 cricket was conceived as a way for cash-strapped boards to make some money on the side, its growth in the last decade has led to fears it might devour the longest form of the game.

The official line is that T20 can spread the game and encourage newcomers to the five-day Test matches, or 50-over one-day internationals.

“We want to make sure all three formats of the game — Test, ODI and T20 — are going to able to co-exist well into the future and not only survive but flourish,” said International Cricket Council chief executive David Richardson.

But with the proliferation of domestic T20 tournaments giving players the chance to earn more in six weeks than they get from their boards in a year, some stars are turning their back on Tests.

And with Tests often attracting paltry crowds, some players worry T20 cricket is endangering the format it was meant to underwrite.

World T20 2016: India & England Survive Huge Scares at The Tournament

Big bucks

“I think it does threaten the traditional game,” said England skipper Eoin Morgan, before admitting he didn’t have any solution to the problem.

This year’s World T20 in India is the third on the sub-continent in a little over three years. In contrast the ODI World Cup is every four years.

Players such as the West Indies’ Gayle have stopped playing Tests and instead earn big bucks in tournaments such as Australia’s Big Bash or the Bangladesh Premier League.

Gayle has admitted he would “not be so sad” if Test cricket died a death, while de Villiers — South Africa’s Test captain and still only 32 — recently acknowledged rumours he was thinking of quitting international cricket in favour of Twenty20 tournaments.

“There are big tournaments going on around the world and some of them you can’t ignore because financially they make a huge difference in our lives,” he said.

The biggest is the Indian Premier League (IPL) where an evening’s entertainment features cheerleaders, fireworks and cameos by Bollywood stars.

Speaking outside the Wankhede, home to India’s board and the Mumbai Indians IPL side, Indian fan Rohit Bhosale said he only had time for T20s.

“The whole crowd seems to be enjoying T20 cricket more than the one-day or Test cricket,” he said.

India’s board was initially cool on T20 cricket and only agreed to send a team to the first World T20 in South Africa in 2007 to secure the right to host the 2011 ODI World Cup.

But the ecstatic reaction to India’s eventual victory prompted a rethink and the IPL’s birth.

The public are hooked

Indian legend Kapil Dev said there was no point trying to hold back the tide and “the T20 format is the future”.

“There is no doubt that Test cricket is far superior — but then the public, young and old, are hooked on to this format. It does not matter whether I like it or not!” he wrote in India’s Mail Today newspaper.

Richardson said the ICC was trying to devise an international calendar that didn’t force players to choose between their country and a T20 money-spinner, acknowledging the need for a balance to ensure “they don’t cannibalise each other”.

In November, Australia successfully staged the first day/night Test, while the idea of a Test championship has long been debated to revive the format.

Indian commentator Ayaz Memon said it was wrong to lay Test cricket’s problems at T20‘s door, saying the two shorter formats had been devised to reverse a fall in crowds.

Memon said the real challenge was to retain the interest of a younger generation “weaned on a lot of different formats”.

“Everybody wants to preserve Test cricket as of now, but you don’t know what may happen in the future,” he said.

ICC T20 World Cup 2016: Schedule & Match Fixtures

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Indian PM Narendra Modi Greets Pakistan on National Day 23rd March

By

Hareem Zafar

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Mar 24, 2016

The Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Pakistan on the National Day 23^rd March. Warm wishes were sent via Twitter to all the people of Pakistan.

Modi came to Pakistan on December 25^th to meet PM Nawaz Sharif, becoming the first premier to ever visit the rival nation in more than a decade. The visit was requested by Modi just hours before flying back to India from Afghanistan.

“Greetings to the people of Pakistan on their national day,” Modi said on twitter.

Greetings to the people of Pakistan on their National Day.

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 23, 2016

President Pranab Mukherjee, on Tuesday, stated that India is truly committed to maintaining peaceful and cordial relations with Pakistan.

Pakistan High Commission in India had arranged a series of events to celebrate the day. It included a reception which was attended by Kashmiri separatist leaders and others.

A senior Minister attended Pakistan National Day celebrations at their High Commission, External Affairs Ministry, said the spokesman Vikas Swarup.

Mukherjee delivered the following message on Pakistan National Day:

“India remains committed to peaceful, friendly and cooperative relations with Pakistan. I am of the firm conviction that our cooperation will lead to progress and prosperity in our region. I take this opportunity to extend my best wishes for your good health and well-being.”

It is truly amazing to witness both the countries coming close and sharing such cordial relations; hope it remains so in the future as well.

Indian PM Modi Coming To Pakistan in 2016?

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Qandeel Baloch Facebook Page Permanently Banned After Several Complaints

By

Maheen Nusrat

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Mar 24, 2016

UPDATE: Facebook has once again banned Qandeel Baloch’s controversial page, this time permanently. The page was restored on Monday after a temporary ban but this time, it seems the ban is forever after various social media users complained and reported the page.

In the latest turn of events, Qandeel’s official page has been restored by Facebook as the content was not explicit. But according to her last status, she isn’t going to make more videos.

The very own Kardashian of Pakistan, Qandeel Baloch‘s official Facebook account has been removed after several complaints were lodged against her stripping stunt following Pakistan versus India World T20 match 2016.

The attention seeking model who made International headlines after openly daring to strip if Pakistan wins against India uploaded a 20-second strip tease trailer that went viral on the Internet. Soon after, people started reporting her official page for smearing Pakistan’s name in global media.

http://www.brandsynario.com/10-qandeel-baloch-videos-that-question-sanity/

The news was shared by Farhan Virk who is a social activist on his Twitter account:

Congratulations everyone. After our reports, the Facebook page of Qandeel Baloch has been taken down. pic.twitter.com/969fbPoGnT

— Farhan K Virk (@FarhanKVirk) March 22, 2016

Although famous, not much is known about Qandeel Baloch as the actress is rarely seen on television. She had a loyal following of haters and fans alike, who were kept amused by her antics and the sexual nature of her videos.

World T20 2016: India & England Survive Huge Scares at The Tournament

By

AFP

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Mar 24, 2016

India scraped a last-ball, one-run win over Bangladesh while England had a narrow escape against Afghanistan Wednesday as two of the favourites incricket‘s World Twenty20 were nearly humiliated by rank outsiders.

After making a modest 146 in their innings, India were on the verge of suffering their first ever T20 defeat to Bangladesh in Bangalore.

But they took three wickets in the last three balls, with wicket-keeper Mahendra Singh Dhoni running out Mustafizur Rahman at the finale as Bangladesh fell one run short.

England meanwhile were reduced to 85 for seven by Afghanistan in New Delhi before a late rally by Moeen Ali and David Willey enabled them to post what was to prove a winning score of 142 against spirited opponents.

The results strengthened the prospects of both India and England reaching next week’s semi-finals in Mumbai and New Delhi. However they must win their final group games against Australia and Sri Lanka.

Bangladesh and Afghanistan have no chance of advancing further after losing their first three matches, with one game still to go.

Rollercoaster ride

Ravichandran Ashwin, man of the match for India after conceding just 20 runs in his four overs and taking two crucial wickets, said he was totally spent after going through such a “rollercoaster” of emotions.

“It was a big rollercoaster game, but I think for a team to go all the way in such a game is very very important,” he said after accepting his match award.

“We have never really got together and worried so much. I don’t have anything left, I’m drained after today’s game. I’ll just crash now.”

A crestfallen Bangladesh skipper Mashrafe Mortaza said the manner of the defeat had been “especially disappointing for us” but took some solace from the fact that the Tigers, the lowest-ranked team in the tournament, had run the favourites so close.

India Beat Bangladesh By 1 Run In World T20 2016

Opener Tamim Iqbal top-scored for Bangladesh with 35 off 32 balls, before he was stumped by the Indian skipper Dhoni.

There were also contributions from Shakib Al Hasan who made a quick-fire 22 while Soumya Sarkar chipped in with 21 as Bangladesh edged towards their target.

But Ashwin and his fellow spinner Ravindra Jadeja kept their cool and continued to take wickets.

At the start of the final over, Bangladesh needed 11 runs and after a single off the first ball, Mushfiqur Rahim smashed two consecutive fours.

But he was then caught at deep-wicket by Shikhar Dhawan while Mahmudullah followed him back to the dugout after the next ball before the final drama which saw Rahman just fail to make his crease.

India, with one loss and one win heading into Wednesday’s match, knew they couldn’t afford to lose if they were to keep their dream alive of becoming the first country to win the World T20 twice.

But their total of 146 seemed below par, thanks to some gritty bowling by Bangladesh.

Al-Amin Hossain took two wickets for Bangladesh off two balls, while newcomer Shuvagata Hom claimed the critical scalp of Virat Kohli for 24.

Dhawan and Rohit Sharma put on a patient 42-run opening partnership before both lost their wickets as they tried to accelerate. Kohli and Raina put on 50 before Hom bowled Kohli just as he was looking dangerous.

Ali spares blushes

England’s top order fared even worse and their blushes were only spared by an unbroken 57-run eighth wicket partnership by Ali and Willey.

After last Friday’s dramatic victory over South Africa when England pulled off a record run chase in Mumbai, the batting performance was a major letdown with none of the top six even getting past 22.

Skipper Eoin Morgan, who was bowled for nought, said the team should not have been caught unawares by the more turning conditions in Delhi.

“I think it was simply a matter of not adapting,” Morgan told reporters.

Moeen’s unbeaten 41 was the one innings of real note but he was ably supported by Willey (20) who hit two sixes.

Afghanistan’s chase was dealt a severe blow after destructive opener Mohammad Shahzad (four) was trapped lbw off Willey with the third ball of the innings and they were soon reeling at 39 for five.

But they went down fighting thanks in part to an unbeaten 35 from Shafiqullah, ultimately falling just 15 runs short.

England’s next game is on Saturday against the holders Sri Lanka while Afghanistan face West Indies in their final match.

ICC T20 World Cup 2016: Schedule & Match Fixtures

India Beat Bangladesh By 1 Run In World T20 2016

By

AFP

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Mar 24, 2016

india-beat-bangladesh-by-1-run-in-world-t20-2016

Ravichandran Ashwin admitted he was totally spent after India’s “rollercoaster” one-run win over Bangladesh Wednesday but warned the hosts had to up their game if they are to realise their dreams of becoming World Twenty20 champions.

Bangladesh came tantalisingly close to chasing down India’s total of 146 for seven, but they lost three wickets in the last three balls of a thriller in Bangalore that ended with skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni running out Mustafizur Rahman off the last ball of the match.

A relieved Ashwin, who conceded just 20 runs and claimed two wickets to be the man of the match, said he had never seen his teammates so worried.

“It was a big rollercoaster game, but I think for a team to go all the way in such a game is very, very important,” the off-spinner said after accepting his match award.

“We have never really got together and worried so much. I don’t have anything left, I’m drained after today’s game. I’ll just crash now.”

India’s group stage victory bolsters their chances of reaching the semi-finals, but they must now defeat Australia on Sunday to secure a place in the final four.

“As far as today is concerned, where we stand, I don’t think we are contenders for this tournament,” said Ashwin.

“(But) if we pick up our batting and come together as a good unit I think we will be good contenders from now on.”

While the victory gives India’s campaign some vital momentum, Bangladesh has no chance of progressing further after having lost all three of their group games.

“I think (our) bowlers have done a great job. We were on top till the last three balls,” a disappointed Bangladesh captain Mashrafe Mortaza said.

Opener Tamim Iqbal top-scored for Bangladesh with 35 off 32 balls, before he was stumped by the Indian skipper just as he was looking dangerous.

The aggressive batsman put on 44 runs with Sabbir Rahman for the second wicket, but Rahman was also stumped for 26 as he looked to carry on the momentum.

Shakib Al Hasan made a quick-fire 22 off 15 before he was caught by Suresh Raina at slip off Ravichandran Ashwin.

Soumya Sarkar managed 21 as the required runs were gradually ticked off, but Indian spinners Ravindra Jadeja and Ashwin kept their cool under pressure and continued to take wickets.

With Bangladesh needing 10 runs off five balls in a gripping final over sent down by Hardik Pandya, Mushfiqur Rahim (11) smashed two consecutive fours, before holing out to Shikhar Dhawan on the mid-wicket boundary.

With two runs needed from two balls, Mahmudullah was inexplicably also caught in the deep for 18.

Incoming batsman Mustafizur Rahman had no choice but to race down the wicket, after Shuvagata Hom stabbed and missed the final ball, and was run out by Dhoni.

Wild celebrations

Confirmation of the dismissal by the TV umpire sent the crowd and the Indian team into wild celebrations.

India, with one loss and one win heading into Wednesday’s match, couldn’t afford to lose if they were to keep their dream alive of becoming the first country to win the World T20 title twice.

But their total of 146 for seven seemed below par, thanks to some gritty bowling by Bangladesh, who were looking to beat India in this format for the first time.

Al-Amin Hossain took two wickets for Bangladesh off two balls, while newcomer Shuvagata Hom claimed the critical scalp of Virat Kohli for 24.

Indian openers Dhawan (23) and Rohit Sharma (18) put on a patient 42-run partnership before both lost their wickets in the space of six balls as they tried to accelerate.

Kohli and Raina put on 50 before Hom clean bowled Kohli just as he was looking dangerous.

Al-Amin then struck, with Raina caught by Sabbir Rahman for 30, and Sarkar taking a spectacular diving catch on the boundary to claim Pandya for 15.

Dhoni battled to an unbeaten 13 runs off 12 balls.

ICC T20 World Cup 2016: Schedule & Match Fixtures

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Tujhse Naam Hamara – Urdu1’s Special Telefilm for 23rd March 2016

By

Sumaira Shiraz Alwani

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Mar 23, 2016

Urdu1 is all set to air a special Telefilm ‘Tujhse Naam Hamara’ on 23rd March at 9:00 pm on Pakistan Day. The romantic-humorous telefilm stars renowned Pakistani actors Emaad Irfani, Mira Sethi, Behroze Sabzwari, and Amna Tabassum as the main leads.

Produced under the banner of Kanwal Wali Muhammad and Huma Furqan, along with Fuma Films Production House, the story of the telefilm revolves around a romantic comedy. The story entails a spirit of patriotism and it showcases a Pakistani police officer and a girl who returns to Pakistan after living abroad after a long time.

The script of the telefilm has been penned down by none other than Syed Zain Raza, who is an aspiring drama/telefilm writer of the Pakistani Entertainment Industry.

The story carries a message of nationalism, where a compassionate police officer changes his viewpoints against his country for the better when he meets the girl. The plot reveals that anything can be changed into betterment, towards positivity if one finds an appropriate direction to lead their life.

With such positive message and story line, a day of patriotism and nationalism is inclined to become the most significant day. So stay tuned to URDU1 on March 23rd at 9:00 pm.

The ‘Eye To Eye’ Singer Taher Shah Returns With a New Song

By

Hareem Zafar

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Mar 22, 2016

The Pakistani singing sensation, Taher Shah, popular for his first song Eye to Eye, has announced his return into the musical foray announcing the release of his brand new song.

Striking the audiences with awe and bewilderment, Eye to Eye truly amazed the listeners and gave the song an overnight popularity and recognition.

The song was initially released in 2013, becoming viral for Taher Shah’s awkwardly simple lyrics, penned by Taher himself. In addition to the song, the singer’s demeanor in the video, donning a white suit and frizzy hair, Taher Shah’s eye to eye is forever etched in our memories.

Dear Lovable Fans,

My New Song "FIRST LOOK" & Its Release Date Will Publish On Sunday 20th
March 2016.

With Love,@TaherShahh

— Taher Shah (@TaherShahh) March 17, 2016

The singer announced that he was planning to release another song for a long time; he has finally released the first look of the song a few days back.

Taher Shah tweeted about releasing the first look of his song on March 20th. Remaining truthful to his words, the first look of the song announced the debut on April 8^th

[dailymotion id=”x11ejne”]

"NEW SONG" FIRST LOOK@TaherShahh pic.twitter.com/0BmKE0fi4V

— Taher Shah (@TaherShahh) March 20, 2016

Will this new song become equally popular to Eye to eye? Let’s wait and watch!

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for more updates.

Shafqat Amanat Ali Blames ‘Weather’ for National Anthem Controversy

By

Maheen Nusrat

-

Mar 22, 2016

Pakistan’s singing Ustaad, Shafqat Amanat Ali has blamed the weather for his botched up performance at Pakistan versus India World T20 match. Ali, who is widely known for his classical singing skills faced the backlash in Pakistan as angry fans criticized him for forgetting lyrics and messing up the performance.

The singer was given the honor to sing the national anthem live in front of thousands of people ahead of the historic clash between Pakistan and India at the Eden Gardens Cricket Stadium in Kolkata on March 19, 2016.

Talking to the Indian media, Ali said, “The only thing which is to be blamed was weather as it rained a lot on Saturday and it upset the whole schedule…We couldn’t do anything with the rain, due to which we couldn’t do an audio check (before the performance) and I was not aware of the problem waiting for me out there,” Ali told the media in New Delhi on Monday.”

He said that while he knew there was “some technical problem, at that time the only thing I thought was that the national anthem shouldn’t stop in between as it would have looked odd.”

Even though he later on apologized, angry fans can’t stop blaming the singer but fellow artists have offered their support citing the incident as ‘human error’.

While talking to Tribune, popular singer/actor Ali Zafar said, “I can understand the sentiment of the general public but one thing that should be understood is that human error is something unavoidable,”

Abrar-ul-Haq, the famous Punjabi singer also weighed in saying “The criticism is justified because it is the national anthem and he was representing us, that too in hostile territory,” stated Abrar. “But we should not criticise him just because of that. We should, instead, learn from these mistakes. As a nation, we have a terrible tendency of not learning from our mistakes.”

Atif Aslam also commented saying that “we should forgive and forget” and that Shafqat Amanat Ali could have used a telepromter, just like Amitabh Bachchan.

But even Amitabh Bachchan couldn’t escape the backlash as a short filmmaker lodged an FIR against the veteran actor for singing the wrong version of Indian national anthem.

Global Smartphone Sale Rises to 1.3 Billion in 2015

By

AFP

-

Mar 22, 2016

Worldwide sales of smartphones continue to rise, according to GfK’s figures from the fourth trimester of 2015, with 368 million devices sold.

In 2015, more than 1.3 billion smartphones were sold, making for a 7 percent increase compared to 2014. Sales were 14 percent higher compared to the same trimester of last year.

Developing markets in Asia offered smartphone sales the biggest push, with a 21 percent increase in sales in the 4th trimester. India proved itself to be an essential player in global sales, accounting for an annual increase of 34 percent, while China sold one smartphone for every two sold around the world.

India proved itself to be an essential player in global sales, accounting for an annual increase of 34 percent, while China sold one smartphone for every two sold around the world.

In the Middle East and Africa, sales increased by 12 percent in the 4th trimester, while Latin America saw a loss of 13 percent compared to the previous year. Western Europe pulled in a meager 5 percent more sales.

Market research firm GfK is predicting a 7 percent increase in smartphone sales by the end of 2016.

Nintendo’s First Smartphone Game, Miitomo Crosses 1Million Downloads

By

AFP

-

Mar 22, 2016

Nintendo said Tuesday its first smartphone game attracted more than one million users three days after release — good news for the Japanese game giant that was long reluctant to stray from its console-only policy.

Last week Nintendo released “Miitomo” — a free-to-play and interactive game which allows users to create “Mii” avatars — as it tries to compete better with rivals.

Users can customise the avatars’ outfit through in-app purchases and interact with characters created by other people or friends.

The avatars ask players questions such as “What did you do on the weekend?” and “What is your favourite food?”, with the answers shared with other characters.

The number of users for the game, rolled out in Japan last Thursday, surpassed the one million mark on Saturday, a spokeswoman said, adding the company does not have an updated figure.

The news sent shares in Nintendo soaring 8.18 percent higher to close at 16,515 yen Tuesday, a day after a national holiday.

The official Twitter account for the game said on Saturday the company was surprised the game attracted so many players so quickly.

Nintendo has struggled as Sony and Microsoft outpaced it in console sales. The three companies are also fighting off a trend toward cheap — even free — downloadable games for smartphones and other mobile devices.

Kyoto-based Nintendo had been criticised for its longstanding refusal to license some of its iconic brands for use on mobile applications.

Last year the holder of the Super Mario and Pokemon franchises announced a tie-up with Tokyo-based mobile gaming company DeNA to develop games for smartphones.

Nintendo also bought a stake in DeNA as part of a deal to develop smartphone games based on its host of popular characters, possibly including Super Mario and Donkey Kong.

Miitomo was only released in Japan initially but will be rolled out in 15 other countries including the United States and France in eight languages this month.

Pakistan vs New Zealand World T20 Match Highlights & Live Updates

By

AFP

-

Mar 22, 2016

UPDATE: New Zealand Beat Pakistan by 22 runs in world T20 2016. New Zealand opener Martin Guptill credited an aggressive approach for his side’s clinical 22-run demolition of Pakistan in a key World Twenty20 game in Mohali on Tuesday.

Guptill, 29, led the charge with a 48-ball 80 as the Black Caps restricted Pakistan to 158-5 off 20 overs after posting a strong 180-5 on a sporting track at the Punjab Cricket Association ground.

The win extended the Kiwis’ unbeaten streak in the tournament and also ensured them a place in the last four, their second semi-final of a global event since the last year.

“We found early that the wicket was better than what we had been playing on. We wanted to be aggressive and it paid off for us today,” said a beaming Guptill who was named man-of-the-match.

“We put up a decent total and then the bowlers came up and did the job.”

Pakistan opener Sharjeel Khan had threatened to run away with the game after a blistering 25-ball 47 but his dismissal in the sixth over helped the Black Caps claw back on the back of some disciplined bowling and fielding.

Kiwi captain Kane Williamson was all praise for his rookie spinners who have been the talk of the tournament for their guile and skill.

“They (spinners) have been very consistent, very smart,” said Williamson.

“We played on a couple of wickets that spun viciously. And then we came here and they adapted nicely on a wicket that didn’t offer a huge amount of spin.

“The way the guys adjusted again on a different surface was very good.”

Sharjeel gave Pakistan a flying start, hitting nine fours and a six, but the rest of the batsmen failed to rise up to the task.

Repeating same mistakes

Sharjeel’s sparkling innings came to an end when he holed to Guptill off Adam Milne, and it was all downhill thereafter for Pakistan.

Guptill was the star of the show, smacking three sixes and 10 fours in his match-winning knock after Williamson won the toss and elected to bat.

Ross Taylor chipped in with an unbeaten 23-ball 36 to help his side put up a strong total on the board.

After a tentative start, Guptill smacked a huge six and a boundary off left-arm paceman Mohammad Irfan in the second over to set the pace for his innings.

Irfan’s new ball partner Mohammad Amir was not spared either, whacked for three fours by Guptill, the last two off consecutive balls.

The Kiwis raced to 62-0 off eight overs before Williamson was caught off Irfan for 17.

Pakistan struck again soon with captain Shahid Afridi (2-40) sending back new batsman Colin Munro (seven) in the first over that he bowled.

Guptill appeared unruffled as he raced to his 10th half-century in T20 internationals with a couple off Afridi, prompting a standing ovation from his teammates in the dressing room.

But just as Guptill looked set for a bigger score, he chopped on to his stumps off Mohammad Sami, who was most impressive among the bowlers with figures of 2-23.

Pakistan’s chances of advancing in the tournament now appear slim with their second defeat in a row.

“Shehzad and Sharjeel started off very well but we didn’t utilise the start,” said a dejected Afridi.

“We keep repeating the same mistakes and in this format you win only if you make less mistakes. But in every game we keep making mistakes, it’s not good for the team.”

Scoreboard of the World Twenty20 match between New Zealand and Pakistan at the Punjab Cricket Association ground in Mohali on Tuesday:

New Zealand:

M. Guptill b Sami 80

K. Williamson c Afridi b Irfan 17

C. Munro c Sharjeel b Afridi 7

C. Anderson c Malik b Afridi 21

R. Taylor not out 36

L. Ronchi c Malik b Sami 11

G. Elliott not out 1

Extras (lb 4, w 3) 7

Total (for 5 wkts, 20 overs) 180

Did not bat: M. Santner, A. Milne, M. McClenaghan, I. Sodhi

Fall of wickets: 1-62 (Williamson), 2-75 (Munro), 3-127 (Guptill), 4-132 (Anderson), 5-164 (Ronchi)

Bowling: Amir 4-0-41-0, Irfan 4-0-46-1, Sami 4-0-23-2, Wasim 4-0-26-0, Afridi 4-0-40-2

Pakistan:

Sharjeel Khan c Guptill b Milne 47

Ahmed Shehzad c Guptill b Santner 30

Khalid Latif c Elliott b Santner 3

Umar Akmal c Guptill b Milne 24

Shahid Afridi c Anderson b Sodhi 19

Shoaib Malik not out 15

Sarfraz Ahmed not out 11

Extras (lb 5, w 4) 9

Total (for 5 wkts, 20 overs) 158

Did not bat: Imad Wasim, Mohammad Amir, Mohammad Irfan, Mohammad Sami

Fall of wickets: 1-65 (Sharjeel), 2-79 (Latif), 3-96 (Shehzad), 4-123 (Afridi), 5-140 (Akmal)

Bowling: Santner 4-0-29-2, Anderson 2-0-14-0, Milne 4-0-26-2, McClenaghan 4-0-43-0, Elliott 2-0-16-0, Sodhi 4-0-25-1

New Zealand won by 22 runs

The Kiwis, unbeaten in the tournament so far, fielded an unchanged side for the crunch game at the Punjab Cricket Association ground where a win will take them to the semi-finals.

Pakistan made two changes from the squad that lost to India in Kolkata, bringing in Imad Wasim and Khalid Latif in place of injured duo Mohammad Hafeez and Wahab Riaz.

A resurgent New Zealand will be eyeing a semi-final berth when they take on a deflated Pakistan in a World Twenty20 group match in Mohali Tuesday, 22nd March 2016.

Smarting under a six-wicket defeat to arch-rivals India, Shahid Afridi’s men need a victory against the table-topping Kiwis to keep their hopes alive of winning the trophy for the second time.

Pakistan won their opener against Bangladesh comfortably but things have since gone downhill as they unravelled against the Indians on Saturday, sparking an angry backlash from fans back home.

The Black Caps in contrast, have been riding high with their horses for courses policy paying rich dividends against India and Australia.

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New Zealand are perched on top of Group 2 with four points followed by India and Pakistan on two each from as many games.

Skipper Kane Williamson has won plaudits after he packed his side with unheralded spinners and leaving out tested fast bowlers Trent Boult and Tim Southee in the key opening game against favourites India.

Their strategy worked well against Australia too with rookie spinners Mitchell Santner and Ish Sodhi combining with recalled paceman Mitchell McClenaghan to wreak havoc in the opposition ranks.

McClenaghan was a surprise replacement for Nathan McCullum, one of the heroes of New Zealand’s dramatic victory over India.

“I think we were fortunate to play on two wickets which were very similar. We adopted similar tactics,” Williamson said after the win over his trans-Tasman rivals.

“You have to try and read the conditions and select accordingly.”

Another win will see New Zealand cruise through to the knockout stage of the tournament which would be a commendable feat for a young side.

Afridi, 36, will be under pressure to deliver after taking flak for his tactics against India.

Former Pakistani spin great Saqlain Mushtaq was surprised at the team selection by Afridi, who is tipped to retire at the end of the WT20.

Pakistani Cricketers’ Earnings Report in Parliament

“They couldn’t read the pitch. For such a high profile match they should have played a proper spinner,” Mushtaq was quoted as saying by the Press Trust of India news agency on Sunday.

“It was not a pitch to field four fast bowlers,” he said.

Teams:

Pakistan (from): Shahid Afridi (captain), Anwar Ali, Imad Wasim, Khalid Latif, Khurram Manzoor, Mohammad Amir, Mohammad Hafeez, Mohammad Irfan, Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Sami, Sarfraz Ahmed, Shoaib Malik, Sharjeel Khan, Umar Akmal, Wahab Riaz

New Zealand (from): Kane Williamson (captain), Corey Anderson, Trent Boult, Martin Guptill, Grant Elliott, Colin Munro, Mitchell McClenaghan, Nathan McCullum, Adam Milne, Henry Nicholls, Luke Ronchi, Mitchell Santner, Ish Sodhi, Tim Southee, Ross Taylor

5 Things We Learnt In World T20 2016

By

AFP

-

Mar 22, 2016

The group stages of cricket‘s World Twenty20 have reached the half-way mark with every team having played two of their four matches. AFP looks at the lessons learned so far:

1. Aussies still to master Twenty20

World champions in ODI cricket and number one in Tests, the Australians arrived in India determined to fill the one major gap in their trophy cabinet. But after defeat to New Zealand in their opener followed by a scrappy win over Bangladesh, skipper Steve Smith admits his youthful side are struggling to adapt to different conditions and “we’ve got to improve”.

The experiment of dropping David Warner down the order from his usual position as the opener has not paid off with the vice captain making just six and 17 in his two innings. The decision to leave Aaron Finch, the top-ranked batsman in T20s, on the sidelines looks increasingly misguided.

2. Never write off the Black Caps

After their talisman Brendon McCullum retired on the eve of the tournament, this was meant to be a period of transition for New Zealand. In both their matches against India and Australia, most pundits saw their batting totals as some way short of being winning scores.

Brendon McCullum leads the players from the field after a comprehensive defeat in the first ODI. ANZ One Day International Cricket Series between New Zealand Back Caps and South Africa, Mount Maunganui, New Zealand. Tuesday 21 October 2014. Photo: Andrew Cornaga/www.Photosport.co.nz — Brendon McCullum leads the players from the field after a comprehensive defeat in the first ODI. ANZ One Day International Cricket Series between New Zealand Back Caps and South Africa, Mount Maunganui, New Zealand. Tuesday 21 October 2014.

But marshalled by astute new skipper Kane Williamson, their bowlers held their nerve and skittled out their opponents’ illustrious top-orders cheaply.

Rookie spinner Mitchell Santner tops the wickets chart and no one has managed to post a half-century against them. Most of New Zealand’s own batsman have made a start without going on to compile a big innings. If they can put that right, the Black Caps look a decent bet to win their first world cup.

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3. New-look England walk the talk

England has long struggled in cricket‘s shortest form due to an inability to score runs — not anymore. Captain Eoin Morgan promised a new, “brash and aggressive” England and they lived up to that billing in a thrilling win over South Africa when they pulled off the highest successful run chase by any team at aWorld T20.

Their 230 for 8 with two balls to spare was also England’s record total. Morgan will fancy his side’s chances of posting big scores in their two remaining group matches against Afghanistan and a struggling Sri Lanka. If they do, then a semi-final berth may be theirs which would be a massive achievement after defeat to the West Indies in their opening game.

4. Hard times ahead for Sri Lanka

It was known that defending champions Sri Lanka might struggle with the bat after the retirements of Kumar Sangakkara and Mahela Jayawardene.

But pace spearhead Lasith Malinga’s injury withdrawal and Rangana Herath’s lack of bite mean the holders lack obvious match-winners ahead of their tougher assignments against England and South Africa. Herath was one of the stand-outs in the 2014 triumph, taking five for three in the semi-final against New Zealand.

But he went wicketless in Sunday’s defeat against the West Indies where he was outbowled by team-mate Jeffrey Vandersay, a late replacement for Malinga. Tillakaratne Dilshan did smack 83 against Afghanistan but no one else has passed 40 and the 39-year-old is hardly one for the future.

5. Spin is king

Indian wickets are famous for being happy hunting grounds for spin bowlers and that’s certainly been the case at the World T20. Slowarmers are commanding the top positions in the bowling tables while even at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium, a flatter ground known to favour pacemen, fast bowlers are finding life difficult. New Zealand spinners Mitchell Santner, Ish Sodhi and Nathan McCullum all feature in the top 10 most economical bowlers at the tournament.

Santner’s figures of 4-11 against India were a resounding vindication of the Black Caps decision to leave pacemen Trent Boult and Tim Southee on the bench. Even South Africa’s lightning quick Dale Steyn has looked a sorry sight, conceding 35 runs in just two overs against England before being taken off.

http://www.brandsynario.com/afridi-admits-mistakes-in-india-match-hopes-to-perform-better-against-nz-world-t20-2016/

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Balochistan Rebels Against Favouritism in World T20 Pakistani Cricket Team Selection

By

AFP

-

Mar 22, 2016

The car park attached to a sports complex in Quetta, one of Pakistan’s most dangerous cities, is full most afternoons — but there are no cars parked there.

Instead, the lanes criss-crossing the enormous stretch of asphalt are filled with dozens of teenage boys clad in bright colours, playing cricket with tennis balls wrapped in tape and stumps erected at all points of the compass.

The chaos of the battlefield leaves onlookers baffled — but each of the fielding teenagers knows exactly where his ball is flying and how he needs to catch it.

These boys are devoted to the game in cricket-obsessed Pakistan, whose national team have won both 50-over and Twenty20 World Cups.

The current team, however, stands on the brink of elimination from this year’s World T20 facing a crucial match against New Zealand in Mohali on Tuesday night after defeat to arch-rivals and hosts India at the weekend.

There is a glaring hole in their line-up: not one of their 15-man squad is from Balochistan, Pakistan’s biggest and most under-developed province, of which Quetta is the capital.

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Around 100 metres from the car park, at the western end of the Nawab Akbar Bugti cricket stadium, professional cricketers clad optimistically in national colours practise on the rough, uneven ground scattered with stones.

“I could not get a permanent place in Pakistan’s national team because nobody patronises Balochistan players like they patronise cricketers from other provinces,” says opening batsman Shoaib Khan.

He is the only cricketer from Balochistan to represent Pakistan at the international level in recent history, playing four T20 matches during a tour to Canada in 2008 where he was the second-highest scorer with 99 runs.

Domestically, he has scored 3,695 runs in 121 innings of 65 first-class matches, with the help of seven centuries and 13 fifties — but has not been tapped again for the national side.

Not one other player from the province has played an international Twenty20, ODI or Test match since Khan.

Unaffordable profession

Pakistan was riveted last month by its first franchise-based Twenty20 league, with fans gathering in a charged atmosphere to watch the Quetta Gladiators against Islamabad United in the final.

Quetta lost, but their nail-biting run to the Pakistan Super League (PSL) final reignited calls in some quarters for national selectors to give players from Balochistan — such as the Gladiator’s Bismillah Khan — a proper chance.

PCB Chairman Shaharyar Khan Supports Team Pakistan In World T20 2016

“Our players have the best fitness when compared to players from other parts of the country but they don’t have proper grounds, pitches, kits, and gym facilities,” he told AFP, adding that if they did “nobody could beat players from Balochistan”.

Security issues complicate matters, he said, with the PCB refusing to hold even Grade II matches in restive Quetta.

Balochistan is one of Pakistan’s most unstable provinces and has been dogged for over a decade by a bloody separatist insurgency.

Then there is the issue of pay for players trying to make a living in a province facing grinding poverty where, Khan said, the fee for a Grade II match is just 4,000 rupees ($40).

“Our boys can’t afford to be playing for the whole day,” he said, adding that he had to defy his own parents who wanted him to take on “any other profession” that would net him a decent pay day.

Wasim Bari, a former Test cricketer who has also served as national chief selector, says Baloch players need special attention to become polished international stars.

“Balochistan players have an immense passion … but lack facilities and opportunities. Since the national team is always selected on merit, there is dire need that PCB provide them special grooming,” he said.

Shoaib Khan agrees, saying there was “no sport culture in Balochistan”.

“There are no grounds, academies are not being promoted and no major tournaments are organised.”

“We don’t ask that you should include us in the national team at the beginning,” said Gohar Faiz, a talented fast bowler from Quetta — just that players should be given a chance.

Going beyond boundaries

Khair Muhammad, the recently elected chairman of the Balochistan Cricket Association, agrees that both provincial and federal cricket authorities have neglected the province.

“We will establish cricket academies and provide players with grounds and resources,” he promised.

To achieve this, he has sought help from Socio Pakistan, an NGO working on public welfare projects in Quetta, to establish cricket academies and provide proper kits to players in the province.

“We have focused on 37 clubs in the region and will provide them nets, rollers, kits and all other basic necessities,” said Amanullah Kakar, chief executive officer for Socio Pakistan.

Sayed Muhammad Sufi, sports editor of country’s top private news channel Geo, said that despite the lack of resources things were improving, citing players such as PSL star Bismillah Khan.

As for Bismillah Khan himself, like the players at the stadium in Quetta, he remains hopeful that he may yet officially don Pakistan’s colours.

“I am pretty satisfied with my performance at the moment and hope to be selected for the national team after the World T20 or by latest at the end of the year,” he said.

Pakistani Cricketers’ Earnings Report in Parliament

Pakistani US Ambassador Jalil Abbas Wins US Award For Combating Tuberculosis

By

Sumaira Shiraz Alwani

-

Mar 22, 2016

Pakistan achieved a prestigious US international award titled as TB Champion Awards 2016 for taking appropriate measures to eradicate tuberculosis from the country.

According to the reports, Pakistani Ambassador to the United States, Jalil Ahmed Jilani, in an event organized by the USAID was honored with the award

Image Source: AFP

Jilani, while speaking at the event said that Pakistan has been making continuous efforts in the health sectors to fight against infectious diseases prevalent nationwide.

“It is a matter of satisfaction that our immunisation programme under the Global Health Security Agenda is being strengthened to prevent, detect and respond to threats of the infectious disease and has a roadmap in place with the support of Center for Disease Control,” he said.

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Jilani, while receiving the award stated that this award is an international recognition of our country (Pakistan) for the hardcore efforts in combating tuberculosis.

Pakistan stands on 5th ranking in dealing with the burden of TB around the world, but at the same time, Pakistan has one of the highest rates of success in dealing with the TB cases within the country.

Jilani further said that Pakistan and Washington DC have been working in collaboration for the health sector. He also mentioned that a high-level meeting between the Prime Minster, Nawaz Sharif and President, Barrack Obama also took place in October 2015.

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“The two countries have affirmed their commitment to fully implement the Global Health Security Agenda, with a view to advance global cooperation across sectors to counter biological threats,” he said.

Jilani while ending his keynote said that Pakistan, along with its partners, both national and international, including the private sector will be able to eradicate the TB health issue from the core roots.

India Vs Bangladesh: Dhoni Urges India to Lift Run Rate Against Bangladesh

By

AFP

-

Mar 22, 2016

India skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni urged his big-hitters to improve their run rate dramatically against Bangladesh on Wednesday or face the prospect of a humiliating early exit from the World Twenty20 on home soil.

The hosts are precariously placed in the fourth spot of Group Two after one defeat and one win. They desperately need a big victory to strengthen their bid for a semi-finals berth.

India’s six-wicket victory over arch-rivals Pakistan on Saturday will have boosted their confidence after a shock 47-run defeat to New Zealand in their opening group match.

But Dhoni said India, who were firm favourites at the start of the tournament to lift a second World T20 title, needed to improve to qualify from a tough group that also includes Australia.

“I still feel there is still scope for improvement and in the coming two games that will be our priority,” said the captain.

New Zealand tops the group on four points after two wins while Pakistan, Australia and India all have two points. However India’s run rate, which could determine who qualifies, is considerably worse than their rivals.

“In the first game our run rate went down. So it’s not only about winning but you have to take care of the run-rate at some point,” added Dhoni.

The hosts are seeking to become the first country to win the World T20 title twice, after clinching the crown in 2007, and also the first to win at home.

Bangladesh, by comparison, will be desperate for a win after two straight losses, the latest to Australia by three wickets on Monday.

Sitting at the bottom of Group Two after also losing to Pakistan, the Tigers have almost no chance of advancing to the semi-finals, but skipper Mashrafe Mortaza vowed to battle on.

“We will keep fighting. We still have two matches to fight hard,” he said.

The Tigers were left reeling after the ICC’s decision at the weekend to suspend their top bowlers Arafat Sunny and Taskin Ahmed for illegal actions, forcing them to rush in replacements from Bangladesh.

There are also question marks over star batsman Tamim Iqbal who is unwell and did not play against Australia.

Teams

India (from): Mahendra Singh Dhoni (capt and wicketkeeper), Ravichandran Ashwin, Jasprit Bumrah, Shikhar Dhawan, Harbhajan Singh, Ravindra Jadeja, Virat Kohli, Mohammed Shami, Pawan Negi, Ashish Nehra, Hardik Pandya, Ajinkya Rahane, Suresh Raina, Rohit Sharma, Yuvraj Singh.

Bangladesh (from): Mashrafe Mortaza (capt), Shakib Al Hasan, Abu Hider, Al-Amin Hossain, Mahmudullah, Mohammad Mithun, Mushfiqur Rahim, Mustafizur Rahman, Nasir Hossain, Nurul Hasan (wicketkeeper), Sabbir Rahman, Soumya Sarkar, Tamim Iqbal, Shuvagata Hom, Saqlain Sajib

Pakistani Cricketers’ Earnings Report in Parliament

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Apple Unveils Smaller iPhone SE & iPad Pro: Price, Specs & Features

By

AFP

-

Mar 22, 2016

Apple went small on Monday cutting prices as well as screen size as it unveiled a new iPhone SE (Special Edition) and iPad aimed at first-time buyers and customers in emerging markets.

The new launches came as Apple geared up for a high-profile court battle with the US government on encryption and data protection, with chief executive Tim Cook claiming that protecting privacy is an obligation for the tech giant.

The new iPhone SE will debut at $399 for US customers without a contract subsidy, a significant cut from the price of Apple’s larger iPhones.

Apple sold 30 million of its other small-screen iPhones in 2015, company vice president Greg Joswiak said, showing that many customers like the compact size — despite the trend toward bigger displays.

“Some people really love smaller phones,” he told the low-key event at Apple’s headquarters in Cupertino, California, unveiling the aluminum handset with upgraded specifications and other features including Apple Pay.
“In some countries like China, for a majority of these customers, it is their first iPhone.”

The new iPhone model has strong potential in international markets beyond China, particularly in India, according to Creative Strategies analyst Tim Bajarin.

Even though the price tag is higher than low-cost Android handsets that dominate the market, it puts the cherished Apple brand within better reach to people in developing economies.

“It will be a good winner for them,” Bajarin said of the iPhone SE.

“While China is still growing, I think their next big market is India and this is a good first step toward an India focus.”

The iPhone SE will be aimed at first-time Apple buyers and those who want to upgrade from the iPhone 5S and 5C, which have not been updated in over two years. The iPhone 6S, the lowest-cost handset in the large-screen family, starts at $649.

New iPad

Also unveiled at the event was a new iPad Pro that also moves smaller — a 9.7-inch display compared with the 12.9-inch model on the original business-geared tablet.

“It is a large enough display to get all your work done, but easy to carry around,” said Apple vice president Phil Schiller.

The smaller, new iPad starts at $599 for US customers, down from around $800 for the original.

Apple took direct aim at Windows-powered personal computers, noting the large number of machines that are five or more years old but still in use.

The iPad Pro has always been aimed at the business market, but “this is the first I have heard Apple say they were going after the PC crowd,” Bajarin said.

Apple will be taking orders Thursday for the new phone and tablet, with deliveries set for March 31, in the United States, Britain, Australia, Canada, China, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Japan, New Zealand and Singapore, with more markets to be added in April.Kickstarting upgrades

Kickstarting upgrades

Apple is seeking “to kickstart the upgrade cycles for both iPhones and iPads,” said Jan Dawson at Jackdaw Research.

“Larger iPhones are still selling in huge volumes, but there’s considerable evidence that some of those who own smaller iPhones are holding onto them rather than upgrading to the new, larger iPhones.”

Dawson said in a blog post that he sees “significant pent-up demand within Apple’s base of iPhone owners who want a smaller iPhone with up-to-date specs and newer features.”

But he added that “this pricing doesn’t get the iPhone down to the kind of prices needed to really spur sales in emerging markets, where older devices have been on sale for some time at similar or lower prices.”

Apple also announced it was cutting the entry-level price for its Apple Watch to $299 from $349 as it unveiled a new nylon band for the device.

Apple has not released sales figures for the smartwatch but analysts have said it has become the market leader.

‘Obligation’ to protect privacy

Cook used the unveiling to reiterate his views on encryption and data protection a day ahead of key court hearing.
“We need to decide as a nation how much power the government should have over our data and our privacy,” Cook told the crowd gathered for the event, one day before a court hearing on a hotly contested FBI effort to force the company to help break into the iPhone of a shooter involved in a deadly December attack.

“We believe strongly we have an obligation to help protect your data and your privacy. We owe it to our customers. We will not shrink from this responsibility.”

Apple, backed by a broad coalition of technology giants like Google, Facebook and Yahoo, argues that the FBI is seeking a “back door” into all iPhones as part of the probe into the December 2 massacre in San Bernardino, California that left 14 people dead.

Because of the iPhone’s encryption, Apple contends it would need to build a weaker operating system to help the FBI crack the phone’s passcode.

The US Justice Department argues that it is making a “modest” demand that could help reveal vital evidence in a terror case.

Brussel Attack: Several Blasts at Airport & Metro Station

By

AFP

-

Mar 22, 2016

UPDATE: Belgium security forces tightened security at nuclear plants across the country after deadly attacks in the capital city of Brussels, the Belga news agency said.

“Surveillance is stepped up with added security measures at nuclear plants,” the agency reported.

“Vehicles are being checked with police and army on site,” the agency added.

In February, investigators probing the Paris attacks found video footage of a senior Belgian nuclear official at the property of a key suspect.

Two explosions were heard at Brussels Airport on Tuesday, Belgian media reported.

Images on the website of public broadcaster RTBF showed smoke rising from the terminal building, where the windows had been shattered.

The broadcaster said the blasts hit shortly after 8:00am (0700 GMT) and that regional authorities had gone into emergency mode, with all flights in and out of the airport halted.

There was no immediate confirmation of the cause of the blasts or of any injuries, but RTBF cited a witness who said they had seen several wounded people.

Images showed people fleeing from the terminal building.

The blasts come days after the dramatic arrest in Brussels on Friday of Saleh Abdeslam, prime suspect in the Paris terror attacks that killed 130 people in November, after four months on the run.

Belgian police said on Tuesday that explosions at Brussels airport had killed at least one person and wounded several others.

Federal police told Belga news agency that they could confirm one dead, amid chaotic scenes at the airport on the northwest outskirts of Brussels.

“There have been two explosions at the airport. The building is being evacuated. Don’t come to the airport area,” the Brussels airport said on its official Twitter account.