Indian Institutes of Technology To Give Admission To Pakistani Students

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Mar 10, 2016

For the first time, Indian Institutes of Technology will be opening admissions for foreign students including Pakistanis in undergraduate and postgraduate programs from 2017.

JEE/ GATE entrance test for admitting foreign students will be conducted in countries like Pakistan, UAE, Sri Lanka, and Singapore in 2017, as revealed by a senior official of the Human Resource Development Ministry, India. It will be a good step forward to smoothen the relationship between the two neighboring countries, benefitting both the sides.

Indian students should not worry about their admission chances as the number of seats for local students will remain the same to facilitate them to the maximum. These foreign students will not only pay higher fees, but the presence of foreign students in tech startups and tech institutes (IITs) will improve their international rankings.

Keeping this perspective in mind, Indian Government may open admissions for more countries in future. It will be a great opportunity for Pakistani students to learn from Indian Technology Institutes because their technological landscape is way better than what we have in Pakistan.

Even though we possess a startup culture in Pakistan too, there are many hurdles that hinder the success. Pakistani tech minds can develop their expertise in this, giving them an additional exposure at a global level. Google’s CEO, Sundar Pichai, also lauded the technological landscape of India and IITs for nurturing students’ talent who are doing wonders in this field.

Even though this step will be a fresh breath of air for the diplomatic ties between India and Pakistan, the fool proof security of foreign students will be a great challenge for Indian Authorities as there is currently too much tension between Pakistan cricket team’s visit to India for ICC T20 World Cup 2016.

Motorbike Giant Hero Unveils $125 Million R&D Centre

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Jambo.pk – The E-Shopping Portal All Set to Revolutionize Online Shopping in Pakistan

By

Ghazala Sulaiman

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Mar 10, 2016

Once upon a time, people used to spend their days hitting shopping malls or supermarkets, personally buying items and lugging them back home.

While earlier, brick-and-mortar outlets were considered capable platforms to fulfill all your requirements in just one place, the unparalleled ascent of e-commerce has bid a hearty farewell to this trend and made way for digital shopping portals – faster, simpler and a hundred times more efficient!

With the Internet vastly revolutionizing everyday life combined with the huge influx of eCommerce portals across the country, the recently launched online shopping store Jambo.pk – a startup under Arpatech Technology Ventures (ATV) – is all set to take Pakistan’s budding e-commerce sector by storm.

Upping the ante in the digital arena, Jambo.pk stands out from the crowd by presenting not only an assortment of extravagant hi-end products but even generic household items on its website.

E-Commerce Boom In Pakistan Helps Boost Economy

From cosmetics to clothes and groceries to gadgets, the innovative e-retailer comes off as the ultimate, one-stop solution for online shopping aficionados.

Touting itself as a fun shopping experience, the e-forum is not only an apparent time saver and hassle-free service but also offers attractive deals and unique discounts. With a 24/7 helpline, acting as an instant messenger to its support team, Jambo.pk scores high on customer service as well.

Amidst cut-throat competition, the tipping point of this new venture is the promise of instant delivery via prompt logistical services through Forrun, another Arpatech venture.

Similarly, in providing grocery, it can rely on the online grocery store TazaMart.pk, another ATV startup. While its rivals struggle for timely delivery of orders, Jambo.pk utilizes ATV’s immense infrastructure and world-class expertise to amplify user experience.

Of course, to meet the needs of e-shoppers fraternity, it has free shipping all over Pakistan, from Kashmir to Karachi, Panjgur to Peshawar, enjoying a loyal following in smaller cities as well.

Within a couple of month of its soft launch, the e-portal boasts a whopping number of SKUs (Stock Keeping Units); having started with 5,000 items, the SKU count is increasing every passing day and closing in on 25,000 SKUs.

Even though Jambo.pk might be at an embryonic stage, their roadmap for exponential growth through highest quality and quantity of SKUs already seems to be following the script to the tee.

Planning to collaborate with big brands and even emerging local entrepreneurs to launch new product lines, it seems inevitable for Jambo.pk to ascend the ladder of success and become Pakistan’s preferred online shopping portal.

Now you can get a guitar, buy your favorite lipstick, shop for your kid or even purchase the latest LED TV online fresh fruits all under one (metaphorical) roof! Don’t believe us? Visit Jambo.pk for yourself for it is always better to behold than be told!

Motorbike Giant Hero Unveils $125 Million R&D Centre

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AFP

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Mar 10, 2016

Auto giant Hero unveiled a new $125 million design centre in India Thursday, complete with 10 miles (16 kilometres) of test track and giant 3D printers, as it seeks to cement its status as the world’s top-selling motorbike manufacturer.

The opening of the facility on the outskirts of Jaipur comes as part of a rapid expansion by a company that sold more than 6.6 million bikes last year and is about to start exports to Nigeria.

Chairman Pawan Munjal said Hero was now selling its low-velocity bikes and mopeds in nearly 30 countries and had set itself a target of 10 million annual sales by the end of the decade, despite a recent tail-off in the Indian market.

“My dream has been to make this company the world’s number one company in the field of two-wheelers — not just in numbers, which we are now,” Munjal said at the inauguration in the northern city.

Set on 247 acres (100 hectares) of scrubland, the site features a network of 14 different test tracks and includes 45 different types of road surfaces.

The total cost is estimated at 8.5 billion rupees (around $126 million).

The research centre includes zones for every step of the design process, including workshops where clay models and then prototypes of the bikes are crafted, and laboratories where endurance tests are conducted.

While cameras were barred from the research centre, journalists were shown giant 3D printers that engineers said were among the largest in the world.

Hybrid & Electric Car Sales To Exceed To 17 Million By 2020

Markus Braunsperger, the company’s German chief technology officer and former BMW employee, said the facility was rare because it included such extensive testing facilities on the same site where the bikes are designed.

He added that the 500-strong engineering workforce had been hired with an eye on ensuring their skills could meet world-class standards.

The increasing gridlock on India’s roads has been a major factor in fuelling the appetite for motorbikes in the world’s second most populous market.

Hero, which split from long-time partner Honda around five years ago, has emerged as the market leader by selling models with prices that start at less than 40,000 rupees ($600).

Its main overseas markets are in Latin America and Africa, where two-wheeled vehicles are often the best way to overcome rush-hour logjams.

“We are in 26 to 28 countries already. This month we should be starting in Nigeria and very soon we should be going into Mexico,” said Munjal.

The chairman, whose late father founded the company in the 1950s when it made bicycles, acknowledged there had been a slight dip in the Indian market.

“The market in India right now is not at its best. We are hoping that things will get better, especially in the rural sector,” he said.

Braunsperger said India would remain “its bread and butter” market and Hero’s challenge was to meet the aspirations of what is due to be the world’s biggest country within a decade.

Top 5 Affordable Cars In Pakistan Under 10 Lac Rs

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Facebook Lite Now Supports Video

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AFP

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Mar 10, 2016

The stripped back version of Facebook’s mobile app can now play video and handle multiple image uploads. The idea behind Facebook Lite is to give people in emerging countries — those where mobile internet is prohibitively expensive, slow or patchy in coverage — on-the-go access to the social network’s core elements.

As such, the Android app ditches data-hungry features — like videos — for faster loading. The new update means that the app can now support video playback.

The Facebook Lite app for Android can now handle video playback

To get around issues such as buffering and bandwidth, any video accessed via the app will load in the background and prompt the user when it’s ready to watch.

As well as moving images, the update now allows users to upload multiple still images simultaneously, rather than one at a time.

Social Media Accounts For 20 Mins Every Hour Spent Online

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Sana Bucha to Host a New Show on ARY Digital

By

Hareem Zafar

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Mar 10, 2016

Sana Bucha, the popular news anchor, makes it back to the newsroom after a long retreat. The CEO and founder of ARY Digital Network tweeted Bucha’s return to ARY news.

The journalist quickly responded that she was looking forward to doing some meaningful TV since a long time.

I am pleased to welcome journalist/anchor @sanabucha aboard #arynews #wishyousuccess #sanabucha @ARYNEWSOFFICIAL

— Salman Iqbal ARY (@Salman_ARY) March 9, 2016

https://twitter.com/sanabucha/status/707613570398359552

Sana Bucha gained popularity owed to her current affairs show ‘Laikin’; she had initially joined GEO Network. She was the producer of the English news show and the host of News Day.

https://twitter.com/ARYNEWSOFFICIAL/status/707604478728519681

She had also served as the executive director for Crisis Cell; she eventually moved to Laikin.

Bucha was content with Geo Network until Amir Liaquat joined as president of GEO TV. She resigned twice in one year because of the differences with the leading televangelist.

She became part of Dunya News in November 2012; she later left the channel due to an election campaign. Sana Bucha will be making an appearance in the upcoming movie, Yalghaar.

The House of HSY To Premiere 1st Short Film ‘BE Yourself’

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Top 5 Beauty Trends From Autumn Winter 2016 Fashion Weeks

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AFP

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Mar 10, 2016

The autumn/winter 2016 ready-to-wear shows have finally drawn to a close, leaving us time to reflect upon the big trends for next season. When it comes to beauty, drama will be key.

Extreme smoky eye

As urban grunge makes its comeback (at least on the catwalk), so it is only natural that eye makeup becomes bigger, darker and smudgier. In Paris, the look was demonstrated by the thick-winged eyeliner at Saint Laurent that flicked up to the temple and the eyeshadow that filled the models’ sockets at Sacai. The “heavy liner” look was more minimalist but still striking at Topshop Unique in London, whereas the Tadashi Shoji show in New York featured a softer, smudgier take on the trend. Dries van Noten’s show invitations even featured the look, handpainted by illustrator Gill Button.

Big hair

Sleek hair has officially had its day, as designers embraced big, attention-grabbing hair. This could be seen at Gucci in Milan, where the do’s were freshly-washed and voluminous, but more so at Rick Owens in Paris, whose hair nests bordered on the conceptual. The city also hosted Manish Arora, where models’ heads were piled high with crimped, wavy, bouffant locks, while in London Ashish opted for bold wigs that matched the models’ makeup.

Bleached brows

In a bold beauty move, several brands took to camouflaging or lightening their models’ eyebrows to make the makeup more dramatic. This could be seen at Giamba and Giorgio Armani in Milan, where the brows looked scuffed out, and Givenchy at Paris, where they were bleached so much that they appeared invisible, contrasting with the heavy kohl eye makeup. Vivienne Westwood also tried out the trend in London.

Dark lips

The new trend for ‘glam-Goth’ manifested itself in a penchant for very dark, high-gloss lips. Rihanna kick-started the trend in New York with her Fenty x Puma show, where the lipstick was black, followed by Marc Jacobs. Things lightened up in London, where Sibling and Gareth Pugh chose deep red tones, before Dior sealed the deal in Paris with a lacquered black lip. The look could also be seen at Louis Vuitton and Vivienne Westwood in the French capital.

Curly girls

Leave the straightening irons at home this fall — designers have been championing the curl for weeks now. Altazurra set things off in New York, with wild curls bouncing down the runway, but the look really took hold in Milan, where Giorgio Armani debuted cute ringlets, Fendi embraced voluminous tight curls and Marni favored a softer, wavy look. Never one to skip a trend, Vivienne Westwood pinned the curls to the models’ heads in London, putting a faintly historical spin on the look.

PCB Threatens To Reopen Wasim Akram’s Betting Files

By

Hareem Zafar

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Mar 10, 2016

Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) inquiry committee head, Shakil Sheikh stated on Wednesday that Wasim Akram will definitely be held accountable if he is in any way found involved in the Asia Cup fiasco.

Sheikh made remarks after Wasim’s earlier question regarding Shakil’s appointment and the purpose of setting up the inquiry committee to investigate Pakistan’s bad performance in Asia Cup 2016.

Wasim pointed out Shakil and said that the special committee chairman did not even learn how to hold the cricket bat properly.

In response to Wasim, Shakil stated that the veteran cricketer should first glance upon his own career, before pointing fingers at others.

“Wasim’s past is well-known to everyone and old files in the board regarding his involvement in betting can be reopened,” Shakil said.

“Regarding the old files, Sheikh was referring to the report submitted by Justice Malik Qayyum on match-fixing inquiry at the start of the millennium. “It is Wasim who has brought the menace of betting into Pakistan Cricket,” he said.

In reference to the 2000 match-fixing report of Justice Malik Qayyum, Shakil said: “It is Wasim who has brought the menace of betting to Pakistan cricket.”

He even stated that Wasim did not want a special committee since he feared something suspicious will come up and his betting files may reopen.

Wasim Akram had a great number of test wickets for Pakistan (414); responding to Wasim, Sheikh stated that he scored 135 runs when the first match between Journalist Eleven and Tauqir Zia Eleven was held at Pindi Stadium.

“At another time during a good level match at F-9 Park cricket ground, I scored 42 and former West Indian captain Clive Lloyd, who was also present on the occasion, praised my batting,” said Wasim.

Pakistan’s World T20 2016 Team Kit Unveiled: Picture Gallery

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Pakistan Vs India World T20 Venue Shifted To Kolkata: Still Awaiting Security Clearance

By

Tanzeel Hassan

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Mar 10, 2016

UPDATE: Due to security concerns, the cricket administration of India has decided to shift the venue for India-Pakistan World T20 match from Dharamshala to Eden Garden, Kolkata, scheduled to take place on March 19th, as DawnNews reports. The BCCI now awaits the approval of the Government of Pakistan to send the Pakistani team to take part in the tournament.

An official of Pakistan Cricket Board has confirmed that the venue is being moved to Kolkata.

“The decision to relocate the match has been made for security reasons. The concerns initially arose following alleged public comments recently reported by the Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh, warning of demonstrations and attempts to disrupt the peaceful conduct of the match,” David Richardson, ICC chief executive said.

About half an hour after ICC chief executive David Richardson announced that the scheduled World T20 match in Dharamshala between Pakistan and India on March 19 is shifted to Kolkata, Shaharyar Khan, PCB chairman stated a written statement that said:

“The PCB welcomes ICC’s decision of shifting the World T20 Pakistan-India game scheduled in Dharamshala on March 19 to Kolkata. The PCB had earlier conveyed to both the ICC and the BCCI of its constraints to play in Dharamshala based on the recommendations of the security delegation of Pakistan that visited India recently”

“The PCB has also today conveyed to the ICC and the BCCI that our government is expecting an assurance to Pakistan against specific threats to the Pakistan cricket team from various political parties and groups during the tour”, said Shaharyar.

PCB Chairman further added that the threats are only Pakistan-specific, not New Zealand, Australia or other teams specific. Hence, the team departure is delayed until the Indian side receives an assurance, expected to get soon.

The Associated Press also quoted on Wednesday that a PCB official says, ICC had been requested to consider Mohali or Kolkata for the alternate venue out of which Kolkata was chosen.

Times of India reported that “the India-Pakistan encounter will be shifted to the iconic Eden Gardens in Kolkata”.

Citing the security concerns in India, Pakistan Cricket Board has delayed the departure of both men’s and women’s cricket teams. The cricket squad was scheduled to leave today (on Wednesday) to participate in ICC World Twenty20 Championship held in India on March 8- April 3, 2016.

“PCB has delayed national women’s and men’s cricket team from travelling to India,” said Amjad Hussain, PCB Director Media. He added that the final decision about the departure will be made by after a formal approval by the interior ministry.

The delegation that visited India to check the security measures made for the Pakistani team ahead of the T20 World Cup seems discontented with the security arrangements.

The team has submitted its findings to the Ministry of Interior, based on which the Pakistan’s cricket board (PCB) has requested the International Cricket Council (ICC) to shift the venue of T20 world cup match.

The security condition for Pakistan cricket team in India is getting worse with each passing day. Protests have erupted against World T20 match between India and Pakistan, scheduled on March 19 at Dharamshala.

Political parties including the Shiv Sena, Congress, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) are holding mass protests, rallies and sit-ins all over the state to jeopardize the keenly-awaited match.

ICC World T20 2016: Pakistan To Send Security Team To India

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The House of HSY To Premiere 1st Short Film ‘BE Yourself’

By

Sumaira Shiraz Alwani

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Mar 10, 2016

First short film of HSY ‘Be Yourself’ following the designer’s upcoming S/S Luxury Pret Collection is all set to premiere nationwide on 13th March 2016, on the day of HSY’s PSFW’ 15 finale. The film stars HSY, Mehreen Syed and HSY brand ambassador Bilal Ashraf.

The film ‘Be Yourself’ follows a humorous genre, where Hassan Sheheryar Yasin and Bilal Ashraf will be seen gossiping about finding a perfect girl for Ashraf.

BTS. With @ashrafbilal at the shoot for #BEyourself. #HSY #TheWorldOfHSY @theworldofhsy @hsystudio #brandambassador #movies @pfdcofficial

A post shared by Hassan Sheheryar Yasin (@hassanhsy) on Mar 8, 2016 at 10:04pm PST

BTS. The stunning super model @imehreensyed strikes a pose wearing HSY Luxury Pret. #HSY #TheWorldOfHSY #BEyourself @theworldofhsy @hsystudio

A post shared by Hassan Sheheryar Yasin (@hassanhsy) on Mar 2, 2016 at 4:20am PST

We wish HSY, all the team members and actors a very good luck for their new venture. Give us your feedback in the comment section below.

Faysal Quraishi’s ‘Salam Zindagi’ Set To Challenge Morning Shows

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Google Android N Developer Preview

By

AFP

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Mar 10, 2016

Google on Wednesday let developers have an early look at the next version of Android in a move that could get the software into a wider variety of devices.

The US Internet colossus behind the world’s most popular mobile operating system broke from its tradition of releasing new versions of Android at its annual developers conference, which will take place in May this year.

“We’re doing something a little different this year by releasing the preview early really early,” Google vice president of engineering Dave Burke said in a blog post.

“By releasing a ‘work in progress’ build earlier in development, we have more time to incorporate developer feedback.”

The developer preview of the “N release” of Android, versions of which have historically been named after sweet treats, should help Google have it ready for device makers by the middle of the year, according to Burke.

New features: Better Notifications & Multitasking

New features touted by Google included the ability for applications to launch split-screen modes on smartphones or tablets.

“In addition, activities can also go into picture-in-picture mode on devices like TVs, and is a great feature for apps that play video,” Burke said.

Android is also continuing to invest in Project Svelte, which aims to reduce the amount of memory space required so it can run on a broader range of devices.

Android N will also offer better notification support — such as the ability to get notifications without opening the app itself. In other words, you would finally be able to respond to messages in-line, without stopping what you’re doing.

An updated software developers kit allows for testing on Google-branded Nexus 6, Nexus 5X, Nexus 6P, Nexus Player, Nexus 9, and Pixel C devices.

“As we get closer to a final product, we’ll be inviting consumers to try it out as well,” Burke said.

Google makes Android software available free to device makers. The latest version known as Android 6.0 Marshmallow began rolling out late.

Social Media Accounts For 20 Mins Every Hour Spent Online

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Social Media Accounts For 20 Mins Every Hour Spent Online

By

AFP

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Mar 10, 2016

Most people now spend an average of 109 minutes everyday on networks like Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, as well as social messaging apps.

The latest data from GlobalWebIndex and its panel of 50,000 adult web users around the world has found that every year consumers are devoting more of their web-based time to social networking.

The average person dedicates over 100 minutes everyday to social media, according to GlobalWebIndex

More than nine in 10 adults (92 percent) around the internet-connected world have at least one social media account — 85 percent use one of Facebook’s core services and 78 percent say that they are active users of at least one social network.

However, the study showed that the average consumer has “close to” seven different social media accounts and engages with 3.5 of them.

When asked, the most popular reason for using social media is keeping up with friends (44 percent), followed closely by filling time (39 percent).

Since 2012, the amount of online time dedicated to social networking has increased year on year. In 2012, the average time spent per day stood at 96 minutes. This rose to 100 minutes in 2013 and by a further three minutes in 2014.

‘Google Destination’ One-Stop Holiday Planner For Mobile Phones Launched

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Nom Is A Livestreaming Video Platform For Foodies

By

AFP

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Mar 10, 2016

Steve Chen has taken the wraps off ‘Nom‘ which he believes will feed online consumers’ obsession with all things food. Unveiled on Wednesday and preparing for its first high-profile public demo at SXSW on March 14. Chen and co-creator Vijay Karunamurthy (a former engineering lead for YouTube) describe Nom as a live, interactive video platform where users will be able to create and host their own food show.

“Nom is a place for food lovers,” said Chen. “If you’ve ever snapped a picture of your dinner, Nom is for you. If you have a food blog and want to connect with a bigger audience, Nom is for you. If a restaurant kitchen is your office, Nom is for you.”

The idea is that the platform is potentially open to anyone with an internet connection be it via mobile or desktop.

“We worked with an incredible group of chefs, makers, and creators to build the site and app they would want to reach an audience live. Now any creative team can produce their own show,” said Karunamurthy.

Faysal Quraishi’s ‘Salam Zindagi’ Set To Challenge Morning Shows

By

Sumaira Shiraz Alwani

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Mar 10, 2016

Faysal Quraishi has maintained his versatile acting in every genre and now he is all set for his appearance as a host of the morning show Salam Zindagi launched on ARY Zindagi. The show will be aired on 14th March from Monday to Friday at 9:00 am.

According to the sources, this is Faysal Quraishi’s second morning show. His first hosting appearance on the morning show was in Muskurati Mornings.

The talented actor, while talking about his appearance on the morning show revealed that he intends to develop a new image as compared to what is shown these days. The actor aims to put a smile on people’s face through his morning show.

Defining the challenges of hosting a morning show, Faysal said that he is about to represent a newly launched channel ARY Zindagi. This channel is a new space for people to know, so he has a big responsibility of portraying this channel with all its features and followings.

On the other hand, the actor said that he will be doing the morning show, almost after three years, so it’s the second big challenge for him but the actor is looking forward to starting the show with a great beginning.

Jeeto Pakistan to Take Place in Lahore, Hyderabad, Islamabad and other Cities of Pakistan

Faysal wants to wake people up with a smile, as people go to bed listening to the disheartening and depressing news. Through this morning show, Faysal intends to turn the negativity into positivity, by giving people a chance to lead a fresh day.

Stay tuned to us for more updates!

Are Face-Swapping Photos About To Go Mainstream?

By

AFP

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Mar 10, 2016

Fun photo filtering and editing app Masquerade has just been snapped up by Facebook. The world’s largest social network has a talent for spotting the next big thing – from Oculus Rift virtual reality to Instagram and WhatsApp. So the fact that it’s paid an undisclosed sum for Masquerade suggests that making comedy videos and bizarre photos and sharing them on social networks is about to go global.

In a blogpost announcing the deal, Masquerade CEO, Eugene Nevgen said “We’ve worked hard to make video more fun and engaging by creating filters that enhance and alter your appearance. Now, we’re excited to join forces with Facebook and bring the technology to even more people.”

However, he also made it clear that although the filters and editing tools look destined for integration into Facebook’s other offerings that Masquerade will remain as a standalone app. “[It] will stay up and running so you’ll continue to record fun selfies and keep using the product. You can also expect us to keep adding fun features,” he said.

ICC World T20 2016: Australia Beat South Africa By 6 Wickets

By

AFP

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Mar 10, 2016

Australia gained a confidence boost ahead of the World Twenty20 with an impressive run chase to defeat South Africa by six wickets in the third and final Twenty20 international at Newlands on Wednesday.

Needing to achieve the highest successful chase at Newlands after Hashim Amla’s 97 not out inspired South Africa to 178 for four, Australia achieved victory with four balls to spare, clinching the three-match series 2-1.

Usman Khawaja (33) and Shane Watson (42) gave Australia a strong start, putting on 76 for the first wicket in 8.2 overs.

Both fell to leg-spinner Imran Tahir in the space of three balls, but captain Steve Smith and David Warner made virtually sure of victory with a third-wicket stand of 79.

Smith made 44 and Warner hit 33. Warner was run out and Smith was caught behind, but Glenn Maxwell made 19 not out off ten balls before Mitchell Marsh hit the only ball he faced for four to finish the match.

It was the last match for both teams before they leave for the World Twenty20 in India on Thursday.

ICC T20 World Cup 2016: Schedule & Match Fixtures

Amla hit eight fours and four sixes in a 62-ball innings as South Africa posted a challenging total. It was the highest score by a South African in a Twenty20 international against Australia and the highest individual score at Newlands.

Amla and Quinton de Kock got South Africa off to a fast start, putting on 47 for the first wicket before De Kock was caught at third man off Nathan Coulter-Nile for 25 off 13 balls.

The six-over power play yielded 68 runs but the scoring rate slowed when the fielding restrictions were lifted, with leg-spinner Adam Zampa conceding only 23 runs in a four-over spell.

Zampa should have had the wicket of Rilee Rossouw, with Maxwell putting down a straightforward catch on the midwicket boundary when the batsman had made three of his eventual 16 runs.

South Africa chose to bat first on a ground where the average total for teams batting first in floodlit games was 154.

Amla, making his first appearance in the series, replaced AB de Villiers in one of three changes in the South African team.

Left-arm spinner Aaron Phangiso was not included in the South African team despite having his bowling action cleared in an independent test, after failing a similar test ten days earlier.

Coach Russell Domingo said Phangiso needed more time to work on and gain confidence with the adjustments he had needed to make.

ICC To Conduct Random Dope Tests in World T20 2016

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ICC To Conduct Random Dope Tests in World T20 2016

By

AFP

-

Mar 10, 2016

Cricket’s World T20 tournament organisers said Wednesday they will carry out random dope tests, following a series of drug scandals that have blighted the sports world including Maria Sharapova’s shock revelation.

Doping has been rampant in the field of athletics and this week tennis’ poster girl Sharapova admitted to being tested positive for the recently banned drug meldonium at the Australian Open.

Cricket saw the ugly face of doping when Australian spin legend Shane Warne tested positive for a banned drug just ahead of the 2003 World Cup and was suspended for a year.

The organisers of the sixth edition of the World Twenty20 want to make sure that the event stays clear of the doping menace.

“Dope tests are already in place. Random tests will happen during the event,” tournament director M V Sridhar, who is Indian cricket board’s general manager for cricket operations”, told AFP.

Boasting of being cricket’s biggest ever spectacle, the 27-day tournament is witnessing 16 teams play 58 matches, including 35 men’s games and 23 women’s fixtures, across eight Indian venues.

Organisers insist that the random checks will keep the players away from indulging in any dope activity.

“The tests will be done by the International Cricket Council anti-doping committee as per the WADA (World Anti-Doping Agency) code,” Sridhar said.

“Like in any bilateral series on the morning of the match the managers of the two teams will exchange the names of two players from their sides to be tested and their sample will be taken in the evening,” he added.

The ICC has been a signatory to the WADA code since 2006 and has been complying to the international agency’s program by upgrading the clauses every year.

CEO Dave Richardson has previously said the ICC will continue random doping players of any team as they want to see that the game is clean.

Last year, Pakistan leg-spinner Yasir Shah and Sri Lankan wicketkeeper Kusal Perera also saw suspensions by their respective boards and ICC after testing positive for banned drugs.

While Yasir was banned for three months in January for breaching ICC’s anti-doping code, Perera faces a four-year ban after his provisional suspension ends.

Controversial Pakistani pacers Shoaib Akhtar and Mohammad Asif had also faced bans after testing positive for a prohibited substance named nandrolone just weeks before the ICC Champions Trophy event in 2006.

ICC T20 World Cup 2016: Schedule & Match Fixtures

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Best Family Cars In The World

By

AFP

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Mar 9, 2016

Shopping for a new family car that will keep the kids safe, connected, entertained and happy? The results of a new report suggest looking at the Honda Odyssey if you’re in the market for a minivan or the 2016 Kia Soul for a compact car, which emerged the big winners.

After evaluating 256 cars on everything from safety and reliability, press reviews, space, and features, US News & World released the winners of their 2016 Best Cars for Families report, naming the best cars across 21 categories.

Mercedes-Benz and Honda tied for winning the most awards by brands, taking home four awards each.

For the sixth year in a row, the Honda Odyssey won Best Minivan for families, for features that anticipate the needs of kids, parents, and teens alike.

Features include a 16-inch rear-seat entertainment screen that can show two different movies side-by-side, a built-in vacuum, and power liftgate for parents who have their hands full.

Winning cars this year also boast everything from in-car wireless Internet, teen driver control and smartphone apps.

Hybrid & Electric Car Sales To Exceed To 17 Million By 2020

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‘Detachables’ May Boost The Declining Tablet Market

By

AFP

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Mar 9, 2016

The global market for tablet computers will see another decline in 2016, but one bright spot is in “detachables” which are gaining as PC replacements, researchers said Tuesday.

A report by research firm IDC said tablet sales worldwide are likely to slip 5.9 percent this year to 195 million units, following a drop of 10 percent in 2015.

But even as the “slate” tablet market cools from its once red-hot pace, one key growth segment is detachables, which bodes well for Microsoft and makers of other Windows-based devices.

IDC projected a 73 percent jump in detachable tablet sales this year and said Windows-based detachables like the Microsoft Surface would garner more than half of this segment.

Windows-based detachables like the Microsoft Surface could garner more than half of this segment, according to IDC

“This momentous shift in form factor will bring along the first significant impact of Windows-based devices that the tablet market has seen,” said Ryan Reith, an IDC analyst.

“Until we see a day where touch is introduced for (Apple’s) Mac OS X and inroads are paved to bring Android and Chrome more closely aligned, we believe Windows remains the logical choice for detachable products.”

IDC said it expects global sales of detachable tablets to grow from 16.6 million shipments in 2015 to 63.8 million in 2020.

“Beyond the growing demand for detachable devices, we’re also witnessing an increase in competition within this segment that will help drive design, innovation, and a decline in average prices,” said IDC research director for tablets, Jean-Philippe Bouchard.

Bouchard said new entrants like Alcatel and Huawei are coming into this segment.

“Everyone in the industry recognizes that traditional personal computers like desktops and notebooks will potentially be replaced by detachables in the coming years and this is why we will see a lot of new products being introduced this year,” he said.

IDC said Apple’s detachable tablet, the iPad Pro, would command some 28.5 percent of the segment in 2016 and Android devices 18.2 percent.

But the forecast showed Windows-based detachables would make further gains to grow from 53 percent this year more than 74 percent by 2020.

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WCCI Karachi Holds Award Ceremony to Honor Women

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Web Desk

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Mar 9, 2016

Mohatta Palace lit up with Pakistan’s shining stars – its women – on International Women’s Day. The Women Chamber of Commerce and Industry (WCCI) Karachi (South) organized an event to honor women of substance who have made contributions towards women empowerment and development in Pakistan.

Interspaced with thought provoking speeches by Hina Mansab Khan the patron in chief of WCCI, the President of WCCI Farida Quershi, and a soulfully rendered hamd by Huma Mir marked the start of the programme after the national anthem.

Poetry by Sam Haque followed after which a few awards were distributed to women of substance.

The inimitable Zehra Nigah enthralled the audience with her recitations delivered in her distinct style, followed by more awards. The award recipients provided insights into the struggles of women entrepreneurs and working women round the country.

The elegant affair was wrapped up by beautiful renditions of famous ghazals by some of Pakistan’s upcoming talent. The Vote of Thanks by the WCCI senior vice president Ghazala Saifi ended the evening on just the right note.

The proceedings were followed by high tea and mingling of guests, as well as shopping at the stalls set up by women entrepreneurs.

Maria Sharapova Disowned By Nike, Porsche & TAG Heuer

By

AFP

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Mar 9, 2016

Maria Sharapova’s multi-million dollar business empire was in turmoil on Tuesday as sponsors distanced themselves from the Russian tennis star a day after she admitted failing a drug test.

The world’s richest sportswoman announced Monday that she had tested positive for Meldonium, a drug she said she had been taking since 2006 which was added to the World Anti-Doping Agency’s banned list this year.

US sportswear giant Nike, German luxury car maker Porsche and Swiss watchmaker TAG Heuer all halted their relationship with the former world number one.

The 28-year-old, whose rags-to-riches story was the stuff of Hollywood dreams, now risks a ban of up to four years which could see her carefully constructed marketing empire collapse.

Nike-suspends-ties-with-Maria-Sharapova

The holder of five Grand Slams and 35 WTA titles, the Russian who arrived penniless with her family in the United States, is as much a businesswoman as a sportswoman.

Despite winning just two WTA titles in 2015 she was the highest paid sportswoman that year, earning $30 million mostly from advertising, according to American magazine Forbes. Her fortune is estimated at $200 million.

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Nike was the first sponsor to jump ship, saying Monday night it was “saddened and surprised” by the news.

“We have decided to suspend our relationship with Maria while the investigation continues,” the US sportswear giant said.

Swiss watchmaker TAG Heuer then said they would break off negotiations to renew their contract with Sharapova.

“Maria Sharapova was under contract with TAG Heuer until December 31st, 2015. We had been in talks to extend our collaboration,” a company statement said.

“In view of the current situation, the Swiss watch brand has suspended negotiations and has decided not to renew the contract with Ms Sharapova.”

Porsche followed, stating “until more details are known and we can analyse the situation, we have decided to suspend planned activities (with Sharapova)”.

Sharapova signed a three-year deal to be the brand ambassador for Porsche in April 2013. The Russian also won the WTA indoor tournament in Stuttgart, which is sponsored by the car manufacturers, in 2012, 2013 and 2014, with the champion driving off in a brand-new sports car.

Huge mistake

“I did fail the test and I take full responsibility for it,” Sharapova said at a quickly convened press conference in Los Angeles on Monday.

“I made a huge mistake. I let my fans down. I let my sport down that I’ve been playing since the age of four that I love so deeply,” she said.

“I know that with this, I face consequences and I don’t want to end my career this way — and I really hope I will be given another chance to play this game.”

The ITF confirmed that Sharapova had tested positive on January 26 and had accepted the finding when she was notified on March 2.

“Ms Sharapova will be provisionally suspended with effect from 12 March, pending determination of the case,” the ITF said.

Sharapova said she was prescribed the drug, a circulation-booster used to treat heart ailments, because of symptoms including an irregular EKG heart test and a family history of diabetes.

Her attorney, John Haggerty, said mitigating circumstances could result in a lesser penalty. Serena lauds Sharapova ‘courage’ –

Serena lauds Sharapova ‘courage’

Russian officials on Tuesday threw their backing behind Sharapova.

“I feel sorry for Masha. I hope that we will see her back on courts and we are prepared to support her,” sports minister Vitaly Mutko told state-run TASS news agency, using the Russian diminutive of Sharapova’s first name.

“The people in her team should be looking out for her.”

Sharapova’s great rival Serena Williams applauded the Russian’s candor in confirming the positive test.

“I think most people were surprised and shocked by Maria but at the same time most people were happy that she was just upfront and very honest and showed a lot of courage to admit to what she had done and what she had neglected to look at,” Williams told reporters in New York, as she prepared for an exhibition event.

“She’s always showed courage in everything that she’s done. And this is no different,” Williams said.

Maria Sharapova Confirms Failed Drug Test

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