Home Blog Page 983

Pakistan’s First V8 Turbocharged Mercedes AMG GT is Here!

Pakistan’s automotive fanatics have shown their love for wheels once again! Pakistan just got its very first V8 Turbocharged Mercedes AMG GT!

The AMG GT is being shipped to Lahore. PakWheels and other Instagram accounts shared images of the beauty receiving praises and welcoming response.

Recently, the country also got the first Mercedes G63 AMG 6×6 Brabus 700!

https://www.brandsynario.com/expensive-car-arrives-pakistan-view-pictures/

Here’s what the AMG GT looks like:

Vehicle type / Category

Vehicle type Coupe
Category Sports Car over $100,000
Assembly Sindelfingen, DE
Generation 1
What’s new N/A

Fuel efficiency / Autonomy

City 18.1 l/100km
Highway 10.8 l/100km
Autonomy 359 km
Infotainment / Connectivity
Apple CarPlay compatible no
Android Auto compatible no

Tires / Suspension / Brakes / Safety

Steering rack and pinion, variable assist
Traction control yes
Stability control yes
Seat belts 2
Airbags 8
Front suspension independent, multi-link
Rear suspension independent, multi-link
Front brakes disc (ABS)
Rear brakes disc (ABS)
Front tires P265/35R19
Rear tires P305/30R20

Dimensions / Weight

Length 4,551 mm (179″)
Width 2,007 mm (79″)
Height 1,288 mm (51″)
Wheelbase 2,630 mm (104″)
Front track 1,678 mm (66″)
Rear track 1,695 mm (67″)
Weight 1,694 kg (3,735 lbs)
Weight distribution front-rear 46% – 54%

Capacities

Passengers 2
Fuel tank 65 l (17 gal)
Trunk 350 l (12 ft³)
Towing N/A
Box length N/A

Performance

Power to weight ratio 241.0 W/kg
0-100 km/h 3.7 s
80-120 km/h N/A
Top speed 317 km/h
Braking distance N/A

 

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for more news and updates.

Rice Traders Get 6 Months Extension by SBP

The rice traders who were unable to meet export performance requirement has been provided with an extension of 180 days under the Export Finance Scheme (EFS) for fiscal year (FY) 2016-17, by State Bank of Pakistan (SBP).

This extension has been provided by SBP after the drop in rice prices in the International market.

SBP’S Infrastructure, Housing & SME Finance Department issued a circular on September 8th, 

“In view of the particular circumstances impacting exporters of rice in meeting their required export performance, the relief is being provided to rice exporters under EFS for FY 2016-17”

According to the circular, SBP has provided a 6 month relief period to rice exporters, under certain terms and conditions.  EFS par-I (Pre Shipment) performance criteria was extended by 90 days and for EFS Part-II 3 month relaxation period has been given.

An extension in shipment period, up to 90 days has been allowed by SBP under EFS Part-I. However, a fine will be charged upon non-shipment of rice within the due time.

An additional 3 month period has been allowed under FES Part-II, to those who had a deficit in required performance in 2016-2017.

Additional EF-1 and EE-1 statements are required to be submitted by exporters through their banks to SBP, who want this extention by December 31, 2017. However they need to be verified by FEOD (Foreign Exchange Operation Department/Division).

The exporters availing this extension will not be allowed to avail benefits of incentive based rebate of mark up for the year 2016-17, under SBP SMEFD circular no.6 of 2009.

Rice prices dropped last week in Thailand, Vietnam, and India due to weak demand. Thai benchmark of 5-percent broken rice was quoted between  $370 to $375 a ton.

Due to weak demand, rice prices have dropped last week in Thailand, Vietnam, and India. Thai benchmark of 5 % broken rice has been said to be between  $370 to $375 a ton.

Due to a decline in rice prices in International Market and the fact that Pakistan is not willing to reduce its price, the cheaper variety of rice from India is grabbing the market share at a rapid growth.

Have anything to add to the story? Let us know in the comments below.

Careem Partners up with Idea Croron Ka!

Careem and Idea Croron Ka (ICK), have announced a partnership for the upcoming season of the show. It is yet to be confirmed that in which capacity Careem will be participating; however, some sources have suggested that Careem might be exploring investment opportunities on the show.

ICK Season 2 starts on 21st October on NEO TV and is already promising to be an exciting ride; as the partnership with the Tech Unicorn, Careem will be a massive boost for our local startup community. Idea Croron Ka has already established benchmarks of its own.

Catching up with the news, the driving force behind Idea Croron Ka and the star host of the show, Nabeel A. Qadeer quoted:

“I am pleased to have Careem as our partners for ICK season 2, primarily because Careem is a unicorn inspirational success story for local startups whereas our show is all about supporting and promoting Pakistani entrepreneurs, hence the synergy. Our campaign together will surely be an exciting one and shall help achieve our common goal which is to add value to the Pakistani entrepreneurial landscape.”

Speaking with Careem Pakistan’s MD, Junaid Iqbal quoted “ICK is a fantastic opportunity for both, investors and startups. It is time people realize the untapped potential of Pakistani talent. We are region’s first unicorn (billion dollar company), and being a local start-up are eager to help our fellow younglings to accelerate and provide them with resources. This is our ecosystem and we are equally responsible for its growth and maturity.”

Both parties are looking to mutually seed opportunities to build a Superior Pakistan!

Baaghi Drama on Urdu1: Fauzia Finally Gets her Big Break into Showbiz

Baaghi drama on Urdu1 has really raised the bar this time with its latest episode. The story based on Qandeel Baloch’s life has finally picked its much-awaited pace and shown us a glimpse into the later life of the social media sensation.

Fauzia’s soul is on fire as she just can not digest the news of Abid’s fling with another woman. She questions her mother about what keeps men hooked to their wives in a marriage. To her utter shock, Fauzia discovers that her amma remains nonplussed by the idea of her husband’s affair with someone else. What is more, she advises her daughter to move on and compromise with the tragedy in her marital life.

But Fauzia just can not be at peace. She threatens Ruby to keep her hands off Abid, only to be warned back that her husband is soon going to divorce her.

The best part of the drama remains the divorce scene between Abid and Fauzia. Our heroine packs her bags and takes her son. But Abid deprives her of the right to raise him and orders her to leave the house.

As expected, her parents blame Fauzia for the ordeal. His father forces her to go back as she was responsible for the disastrous marriage.

Heartbroken, Fauzia realizes she has no one to look up to. Resigned, she returns back to her susral, while Abid continues his fling with Ruby.

But then her Kismet takes a turn! Fauzia gets a call from a modeling agency and gets invited to work in an ad in the city. Elated and excited, she shares the good news with her husband but he crushes her dreams in a jiffy.

The promo of the next episode shows Fauzia fulfilling her desie and finally stepping into the world of showbiz.

Kudos to both Saba Qamar and Ali Kazmi for nailing their characters so beautifully in this episode. Their chemistry is on-point and expressions so perfectly conveyed.

They made the audience live every scene, experience the joy and heartbreak. This week, Baaghi proved that the world will continue to stifle women, suffocate their talent and hush their voice.

However, only those who dare to defy the wrong an break the norms can rise to prove themselves.

For those who don’t know, Baaghi airs on Urdu1 every Thursday at 8 PM.

 

Shaneira Akram Proves She is Pakistan’s Ultimate Bhabhi

Shaneira Akram has mentioned that she is Pakistan’s ultimate ‘Bhabhi’. The beautiful Australian is often seen celebrating Pakistani holidays and special occasions with zest! She truly has accepted the nation and the people as her own.

Akram raised her voice against the littering problem in Karachi and across Pakistan and urged people to come forward and do something about it. Little did she know this good initiative of hers would lead to her being trolled on Twitter by the masses!

Here’s what Shaneira Tweeted:

However, Kiran Ahmed was being the perfect Twitter troll!

Instead of applauding the efforts made by Shaneira, people criticised her for what she was trying to do. However, she did not let it go and hit back to the hater!

 Shaneira Replied to Trolls! 

 

Shaneira Doing what she does best, Spreading smiles on 14th August!

 

Have anything else to add? Let us know in the comments below.

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for latest news and updates.

 

Momina Mustehsan Shares Her Secret Weapon Against Depression!

Momina Mustehsan is no less than a role model for the women of Pakistan! Her journey to stardom has been quite difficult. Her instant rise to fame came out as a shocker for the songstress who wasn’t expecting so much of sudden limelight!

Within days, her personal life became the talk of the town and trolls were ready to attack her. From her hair to her ex-fiance, her vocal skills to the way she talks, all of it was scrutinized and criticized!

But after this long journey of struggle, the starlet is stronger than ever before.

Gathering up the courage, Mustehsan took to Instagram and bared her heart about how she defeated depression and came out a winner.

There is a lot we can all learn from Momina’s brave confession.

Everyone has struggles. And just like everyone, I am also a human and I had struggles.

Her story is the perfect example of how depression and anxiety – indeed, any mental illness – can affect anyone.

I had lost all self-esteem. I came to a point where I could not even look at myself in the mirror. I had gained weight

However, she shared an easy secret, an amazing word of wisdom that will help all those who are battling depression.

It only gets better when you get better

Well, the diva says it right. The happiness needs to come from within and the realization of your self-worth is even more imperative.

We admire Momina Mustehsan for not only for her courage in speaking out but also for the eloquence and clarity of her message.

More power to you girl!

Saba Qamar Gets into Trouble Over Tax Evasion?

saba qamar

Saba Qamar has been flying high with her back-to-back successes in her Bollywood debut, Hindi Medium and Urdu1’s ground-breaking Qandeel Baloch’s biopic ‘Baaghi’. She has earned love from her fans all over the world and we can surely say, she is the luckiest starlet of 2017.

However, some news reports reveal that the haseena has landed herself in big trouble with Federal Board of Revenue (FBR).

Various reports by Geo, ARY and Dunya News reveal that FBR has sealed her house as she has failed to pay tax on time.

Apparently, she has defaulted on tax worth Rs3.4 million and that’s a pretty massive amount!

According to reports, many notices were sent to Saba by FBR. However, no response was received and hence, her house was sealed by the authority.

Meanwhile, Saba Qamar has denied receiving any notice! So we wonder what the real story is.

However, it is not just Qamar who has made it to the news for all the wrong reasons.

Giving her company is the Lollywood diva, Noor. Seems like FBR has sealed her house as well for tax evasion.

#ThrowBack #NoorBukhari

A post shared by Noor Bukhari (@noorbukhariofficial) on

 

FBR record says that Noor has defaulted on tax worth Rs1.5 million.

Noor has not yet responded to any statements on the matter.

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for more updates.

APBF Condemns Brutal Violence on Rohingya Muslims

The All Pakistan Business Forum on Thursday condemned the brutal violence on the Rohingya Muslim minority in Myanmar, asking the United Nations, developed countries and all other international agencies to raise the voice against this atrocity.

APBF president Ibrahim Qureshi asked Pakistan government as well as the world to stand up for helping Bangladesh provide food, shelter and medical assistance to the refugees, besides putting pressure on Burma to stop violation of the human rights.

He also urged the neighboring countries of Myanmar to provide all possible support to the affected people getting refuge in Bangladesh.

Ibrahim Qureshi mentioned, 

 “The international community should be given a strict message asking them to act against the carnage of Rohingya Muslim community in Myanmar.”

He also added that Burmese government is supporting terrorism that could put the peace of the entire world at stake. He demanded the government of Burma to ensure the rights of minorities, finding durable solutions for stateless Rohingya and holding the culprits accountable.

The APBF is deeply concerned over the massacre of helpless Muslims in Burma and gives a wakeup call to the sleeping international community. He said that silence of United Nations, Organizations of Islamic Countries and global leaders on the massacre of Rohingya Muslims is regrettable.

Though some Muslim countries, including Turkey and Maldives, have taken few steps to prevent further bloodshed yet the situation seems unchanged.

He further mentioned that Aung San Suu Kyi, the ruler of Burma, has failed to ensure peace and protect the Muslim minority while her silence over the issue is being criticized globally. She is one of the few people with the moral authority and mass appeal to influence the situation, but she is not responding to the calls of the international community.

 

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for latest news and updates.

Hurricane Irma: Live Updates, Warning and Images

After Hurricane Harvey wreaked havoc across the state of Texas, there is another impending natural threat; Hurricane Irma.

Hurricane Irma has been ranked as a category five storm with sustained wind speeds of 180mph. It is tearing through the Caribbean, currently hurtling across the Virgin Islands. However, now, it is moving away from Puerto Rico and heading towards the Dominican Republic and Haiti. According to forecast, it is set to hit on Thursday.

Watch Video below for details:

Irma has brought destruction across the Caribbean and Barbuda has been left in ruins.

According to the Prime Minister Gaston Browne,

“90% of buildings have been destroyed and 60% of the population is homeless.”

 


Alarmingly, the massive tropical storm is on track to reach Florida, which will be a disastrous hit. Irma is forecast to head towards Cuba and Florida, where mandatory evacuations have been issued to residents in coastal areas, who must leave their homes by Thursday.

While Irma is grabbing all the attention, there are two more hurricanes spinning in the Atlantic Basin:

  1. Tropical Storm Jose
  2. Tropical Storm Katia

In terms of Accumulated Cyclone Energy for all storms so far, 2017 has spiked to well above average in the past week due to Irma. We also have Jose and Katia adding to the tally.

Hurricane Irma, accompanied by Katia and Jose

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for more updates.

Oil Spill at Seaview Causes Panic and Health Concerns

This Eid ul Azha brought with it floods, rain and a stench that we would definitely love to forget. A surge of garbage was found on the streets right after Eid when animal remains were found strewn across roads without being efficiently disposed of.

However, apart from the initial mess, it has now come to notice that the beautiful sea-side that Karachites are proud of is experiencing an oil slick that is stretched over 4 kilometers. This caused panic amongst public visiting the Clifton beach. The oil spill does not pose any serious threat to humans but marine life under the oil will be affected.

It has still not been found as to what caused the oil spill and officials claim that it has not originated from the Karachi Port area but was pushed by Monsoon winds from the open sea and therefore made the landfall to Karachi.

Location of the Spill

It has spread between McDonald’s & The village restaurant near, Seaview Karachi.

An environmental expert, Saqib Ejaz Hussain spoke to Geo News about the Marine Pollution Control Board which could control the oil slick in time before it gets dangerous. He added,

“They have dispersants which help control and break down the oil naturally, the KPT also has a boom which can be used to control the spill.”

He further spoke about the consequences faced if the board would not act quickly,

“If they do not act fast, it could pose a threat to humans as well as marine life.”

The oil spill that is measured to be about 4 kilometres long is now breaking down into pieces across the area. This is due to the impact from heat, it is now changing into tar.

The WWF Pakistan has also informed the public through an awareness video. Watch the video below.

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for latest news and updates.

Defence Day 2017 Celebrations [View Pictures]

On the September 6, Pakistan celebrated its 52nd Defence Day with full fervor and renewed resolve to defend the country against all threats. Paying homage to those who defended the country with their lives against the Indian aggression and un-called for intervention in 1965.

The Army, Navy and the Air force, of Pakistan joined forces to exhibit their respect, each division in its own unique way. With parades, displaying combat techniques, coloring the sky during the air show and paying respect to the war veterans and the martyrs.

Air Vice Marshal Imran Khalid (front row 2nd L), Air Officer Commanding, Pakistan Air Force (PAF) academy Risalpur, walks with officers at the mausoleum of Muhammad Ali Jinnah during Defence Day ceremonies – Reuters 

Pakistanis look at missiles and a jet fighter during celebrations to mark Defence Day at the Nur Khan military airbase in Islamabad on September 6, 2017 – AFP

Pakistanis look at a F-16 jet fighter during celebrations to mark Defence Day at the Nur Khan military airbase in Islamabad on September 6, 2017 – AFP  

Pakistanis look at a F-16 jet fighter during celebrations to mark Defence Day at the Nur Khan military airbase in Islamabad on September 6, 2017.- AFP 

A Pakistan jet fighter (R) drops flares during celebrations to mark Defence Day at the Nur Khan military airbase in Islamabad on September 6, 2017 – AFP

LAHORE: Commander 4 Corps Lt General Sadiq Ali welcoming war veterans on Defence Day Show at Fortress Stadium. ONLINE PHOTO

LAHORE: Pakistan Air Force jets demonstrate dangerous and colourful stunts to commemorate the 52nd Defence Day of Pakistan. PHOTO BY: ZUBAIR MEHFOOZ

Karate team performing their skills during exhibition of arms and equipments at Garrison Sports Stadium in connection with Defence Day of Pakistan – APP 

 

APC displayed at Garrison Sports Stadium Hyderabad in connection with Defence Day of Pakistan – APP

GOC Major General Muhammad Ali visiting different stalls and watching arms and equipment displayed at Garrison Sports Stadium in connection with Defence Day of Pakistan – APP

Pakistanis look at missiles and a jet fighter during celebrations to mark Defence Day at the Nur Khan military airbase in Islamabad on September 6, 2017 – AFP


KARACHI, PAKISTAN-SEPTEMBER 06:Pakistani Navy soldiers take part in a drill on a beach during celebrations of Defence Day.(Photo by Sabir Mazhar)


KARACHI: A contingent of Pakistan Army hold a march-past during Defence Day Parade at Malir Garrison. ONLINE PHOTO


KARACHI:Pakistan Army’s tank crews taking part in the Defence Day Parade at Malir Garrison. ONLINE PHOTO


KARACHI: Commando of SSG Navy lands at Sea View after free fall from the altitude of ten thousand meters on the occasion of Defence Day Celebrations by Pakistan Navy. ONLINE PHOTO


KARACHI: Commandos of SSG Navy repelling down from Seeking Helicopters on the occasion of Defence Day Celebrations by Pakistan Navy at Sea View. ONLINE PHOTO


KARACHI: Sep 06 – Chief inister Sindh Syed Murad Ali Shah being briefed about F-16 aircraft during Defence Day Celebrations held at PAF Base, Masroor. ONLINE PHOTO

LAHORE: Female Army personnel attend the event to mark the Defence Day, at Fortress Stadium. ONLINE PHOTO


HYDERABAD: Army parade during Defence Day event at Hyderabad Garrison. ONLINE PHOTO by Nadeem Khawer


LAHORE: Army Aviation Cobra Gunship helicopter demonstrating its skill during an event to mark the Defence Day, at Fortress Stadium. ONLINE PHOTO by Sajid Rana


LAHORE: Children presenting national songs during an event to mark the Defence Day, at Fortress Stadium. ONLINE PHOTO by Sajid Rana


KARACHI: Pakistani Navy soldiers take part in a drill on a beach on September 6, 2017.(Photo by Sabir Mazhar)


KARACHI: Pakistani Navy soldiers take part in a drill on a beach during celebrations on September 6, 2017.(Photo by Sabir Mazhar)

Pakistan Currency Limit for Travellers Increased by SBP

Good news has been announced for those passengers travelling to and from Pakistan, rules have been revised and the State Bank of Pakistan has raised the limit on Tuesday by more than three times.

For those who will be travelling to India, the amount has changed from Rs. 500 to Rs. 3000 the SBP mentioned in a statement.

However, the new limit of Rs. 10000, are only for Pakistani bank notes. Passengers will otherwise be allowed to carry up to $10,000 or equivalent notes of any other currency while travelling internationally. This falls under the SBP’s foreign exchange rules.

The revision in policies have been made to facilitate travellers and consider the changing times that have increased the cost of goods and services. Previously the limit for currency carrying to India was only Rs. 500 and Rs. 3000 for the rest of the countries.

Have anything else to add to the story? Let us know in the comments below.

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for latest news and updates.

Dettol Served Notice For Deceptive Marketing by CCP

The Competition Commission of Pakistan has been keeping a look out for brands that are using deceptive marketing strategies to sell their products.

After serving a notice to various multinational and local juice brands, this time around it is Reckitt Benckiser Pakistan Limited that has received a show cause notice for its brand, ‘Dettol’.

The personal care and hygiene brand is said to be involved in deceptive marketing through the product’s television commercials. CCP has accused Dettol of violating Section 10 of the Competition Act, 2010 by making unjustified and baseless claims.

Reckitt Benckiser had been the one that previously complained about rivals, Colgate Palmolive and Unilever for displaying false claims about their products. The complaints were brought under consideration by the CCP.

The investigation conducted by the CCP found the company making claims that were false in the various TV commercials on air.

Some of the False Claims made by Dettol Include:

1. Dettol soap kills flu-like germs up to 99.9%
2. Dettol provides 24-hour constant protection from germs
3. 24 Hr protection from germs that spread during winters
4. Dettol provides 24 hours germ protection from Cold and Flu
5. Dettol prevents germs (E.coli & S.Aureus) from increasing for up to 24 hours

Watch the recent TVCs by Dettol

RB Ltd has been asked to reply in writing to the CCP within the next fourteen days. CCP has advised the company to take extra care in marketing health related products.

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for latest news and updates.

Islamabad’s Centaurus Mall is Charging Rs500 for Entry!

The Centaurus Mall Islamabad,  has much to offer from a full-fledged food court to cinema, and many brands to shop from.

However, a recently shared image has raised many concerns for the residents and visitors both. Apparently, the mall charges entry ticket of Rs 500! Not to forget this amount is not adjustable nor refundable.

This was pointed out by Awais Ahmad Khan and was widely shared on different Facebook groups and other platforms. Just 2 years ago when the mall was first open to the public, the ticket price was set at Rs 100 whereas now it has surged 5 times!

We got in touch with the mall to find out the reason behind this entry coupon and what is the criteria. According to Mr. Sharjeel, the Deputy Manager of Operations, the coupon is for single males who visit the mall and it has been placed for the convenience of families and ladies.

However, now the question arises, why does a male need to pay Rs 500 extra if he wants to hang out with his friends, have a good time, enjoy the weekend, watch a movie and do a bit of shopping?

Secondly, if this coupon is to encourage families then what about men who accompany their families yet they harass females by ogling at them or by passing inappropriate comments?

What about men who are not accompanied by female members? Are they not accounted as a family despite being blood related?

Does the definition of ‘family’ get restricted to having any female company? In such cases, the female can be anyone from being a friend to being a stranger who pretends to be a part of the group.

Social Media Reactions

Shopping malls are for the public’s entertainment, then why discriminate? This initiative by the mall has left us with many unanswered questions. We are still awaiting a representative to get back in touch with us.

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for more news and updates.

Defence Day 2017: Deals You Must Avail!

defence day

The nation gears up to celebrate yet another special occasion today, Pakistan’s Defence Day. Numerous functions will be held across the country paying tribute to the martyrs who laid down their lives for Pakistan.

Pakistanis do not need a reason to celebrate and this Defence day, there are smashing deals taking place across the country in honour of the people who lay down their lives to protect Pakistan.

Here are some of the massive deals that you can avail this defence day!

  1. Ginsoy- Extreme Chinese

2. Chen One

3.Pizza Hut

4.Yayvo

5. Chatta’s

6. KFC

The fast food eatery has not released a deal but a contest this year, where the winners will get a KFC voucher.

Have anything else to add? Let us know in the comments below.

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for latest news and updates.

Alibaba Representatives Visit TCS & Yayvo.com

Representatives of Alibaba Group, the world’s largest online retailer and TCS Holdings, one of Pakistan’s leading courier, logistics and e-commerce providers, met to discuss the potential for B2B and eCommerce market development in the country.

During the full day meeting, the Alibaba team visited TCS offices and the main hub of the courier and logistics business.

During the visit, the delegation met with the TCS management and were briefed on the role and presence of TCS in the domestic market as well as the company’s alliance with the global logistics leader United Parcel Service (UPS) for international express services.

The strength of TCS in the local market combined with its alliance with UPS allows the company to offer its customers a broad range of end-to-end delivery and shipment solutions to more than 220 countries and territories worldwide.

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for more news and updates.

Huawei Reveals the Future of Mobile AI at IFA 2017

Huawei Consumer Business Group unveiled a new era in smartphone innovation. As part of CEO Richard Yu’s keynote address, he revealed Huawei’s vision for the future of artificial intelligence with the launch of the Kirin 970.

By combining the power of the cloud with the speed and responsiveness of native AI processing, Huawei is bringing AI experiences to life and changing the way we interact with our devices.

“As we look to the future of smartphones, we’re at the threshold of an exciting new era,” said Richard Yu, CEO of Huawei Consumer Business Group. “Mobile AI = On-Device AI + Cloud AI.

Huawei is committed to developing smart devices into intelligent devices by building end-to-end capabilities that support coordinated development of chips, devices, and the cloud. The ultimate goal is to provide a significantly better user experience. The Kirin 970 is the first in a series of new advances that will bring powerful AI features to our devices and take them beyond the competition.”

After years of development, Cloud AI has seen broad application, but user experience still has room for improvement, including latency, stability, and privacy. Cloud AI and On-Device AI can complement each other. On-Device AI offers strong sensing capabilities, which are the foundation of understanding and assisting people.

Sensors produce a large amount of real-time, scenario-specific, and personalized data. Supported by strong chip processing capabilities, devices will become more cognitive of user needs, providing truly personalized and readily accessible services.

Kirin 970 is powered by an 8-core CPU and a new generation 12-core GPU. Built using a 10nm advanced process, the chipset packs 5.5 billion transistors into an area of only one cm².  Huawei’s new flagship Kirin 970 is Huawei’s first mobile AI computing platform featuring a dedicated Neural Processing Unit (NPU).

Compared to a quad-core Cortex-A73 CPU cluster, the Kirin 970’s new heterogeneous computing architecture delivers up to 25x the performance with 50x greater efficiency. Simply put, the Kirin 970 can perform the same AI computing tasks faster and with far less power. In a benchmark image recognition test, the Kirin 970 processed 2,000 images per minute, which was faster than other chips on the market.

New developments in AI require joint effort across the entire value chain, involving tens of millions of developers, and the experience and feedback of hundreds of millions of users. Huawei is positioning the Kirin 970 as an open platform for mobile AI, opening up the chipset to developers and partners who can find new and innovative uses for its processing capabilities.

About Huawei Consumer BG

Huawei’s products and services are available in more than 170 countries, and are used by a third of the world’s population, ranking third in the world in mobile phone shipments in 2015. Fifteen R&D centers have been set up in the United States, Germany, Sweden, Russia, India and China.

Huawei Consumer BG is one of Huawei’s three business units and covers smartphones, mobile broadband devices, home devices and cloud services. Huawei’s global network is built on 20 years of expertise in the telecom industry and is dedicated to delivering the latest technological advances to consumers around the

Pakistani Celebrities Speak Up Against Rohingya Crisis

Our heart goes out to the martyrs of Rohingya Crisis in Myanmar. Children and families are being physically assaulted and some have been burned alive as they attempt to flee the “genocide” of Rohingya in Myanmar.

Keeping in mind this tragic event, various Pakistani celebrities have condemned this attack on Rohingya Muslims and spoken up against this man-made crisis.

Malala Yousafzai’s heartfelt statement on the genocide:

Feeha Jamshed Spoke her Heart out too!

Hamza Ali Abbasi has announced a Protest! 

The diva, Armeena Rana Khan shared her views too:

 

A few Politicians and Public Personalities Have Shared their Opinions too

Daniyal Gilani’s tweet:

Even Waqar Zaka and Veena Malik spoke out against this terrible genocide: 

These celebrities are a few amongst thousands who have spoken up for the rights of the Muslims of Myanmar.

Let us hope the situation gets better for all those surviving under such harsh conditions.

Contributed By: Sakina Haider

Karachi Becomes a Mess After Eid-ul-Azha!

Following the thunderstorm and heavy rainfall that poured down on the city of Karachi, it is evident that Pakistan’s metropolis is not equipped to handle such heavy downpours. Majority of the streets were flooded with water and trash wreaking havoc for the citizens.

On top of that, the preparations for Eid-al-Adha were severely affected, so much so that even sacrificial animals were part of the casualty count.

According to SAMAA TV, five sacrificial animals were killed after an electrical wire fell down and electrocuted the cattle.

Thankfully, the day of Eid saw clear skies, easing peoples apprehensions. However, the aftermath of the downpour remained to be a problem in most of the areas of Karachi.

And for a city in an Islamic country where the sacrificial ritual is an annual practice, it’s appalling how unprepared the authorities were for the waste disposal that followed. Karachi is submerged in a putrid stench from the rotting of offal, that are heaped on the roadsides.

Despite the Sindh Solid Waste Management Board (SWMB), being awarded a budget of Rs2.95 billion, the output is barely visible. According to a statement by Raza Garzedi, director of Shehri-Citizens for a Better Environment in The Express Tribune, the government has failed to activate the city-wise municipal system. He blamed the chaos of management on the power struggle between the MQM and PPP, due to which the citizens are suffering.


Video Courtesy: Dawn.com

Moreover, the stagnant rainwater mixed with the remains of the animals, serves as a serious health hazard for citizens, with the chances of gastrointestinal, diarrhea and typhoid being spread.


Contributed By: Abeer Anwaar

Mujhay Jeene Do Drama on Urdu1: Gohar Rasheed to Wow the Audience Once Again!

gohar rasheed

The actor that is everyone’s favorite baddie, Gohar Rasheed, will be starring in Urdu’s upcoming drama, ‘Mujhay Jeene Dou’.

This time around, Rasheed will not be donning the full-blown antagonist avatar but will be close to an anti-hero. The star that looks for risky projects, moves to break his own stereotype.

In an exclusive interview, Gohar Rasheed opened up about his upcoming project.

Q. Who was your inspiration to choose an acting career?

When I started doing theater I was in 3rd grade, so I did not even know what the word inspiration meant back then. However, when I joined the industry I researched about acting and the actors that’s when I started forming my views.

My all out inspiration is Daniel Day-Lewis and I tend to follow his footsteps to whatever level I can. In Pakistan, the Late Moin Akhtar inspired me.

Q. You always seem to play the antagonist, is this a wholehearted choice?

GR: I personally think that a hero is always a hero, but a villain gets more margin in terms of acting and also that’s the character that increases the curiosity level of the audience. He keeps them on their toes.

Villains are unpredictable so their actions come as a shock and it adds the suspense of the story. That is why I feel baddies get more chance to grow in terms of acting. That’s the kind of thing I look for, a meatier and substantial role. Plus I feel the writers focus more on the villain because we all know that the hero saves the day. What will the villain do? That’s the question. It is what keeps you guessing. Therefore it gives me more room to act.

Q. Tell us about ‘Mujhe Jeene Dou’

GR: The story deals with a child marriage which basically, I think is a major issue in our rural areas.

The drama ‘Mujhe Jeene Do’ is by John Hopkins and directed by Angeline Malik. When you take such a decision you usually have no idea that what will be the repercussions of this decision. We talk about the consequences of it.

While reading the script, some scenes were horrifying. You think that this act is done to a person who has no idea of what this all means. I mean it’s just a little girl and you have wedded her off.

This drama serial is dealing with all those taboos attached to these things, things that need to be spoken about. Our audiences especially in the rural areas but even in the urban ones need to be informed and made more aware of such topics.

Q. What is your role in the upcoming drama ‘Mujhe Jeene Dou’?

GR: This time it’s not a baddie!

You have to break your own stereotypes. I want to bring something new to the audience because they have some sort of expectations from me.

The character’s name is Naseeb. He is a good guy in the play. The reason why I chose this character is that in this play, you can’t determine just within the first 15 minutes if he is a good guy or a bad guy. His decisions determine whether he is right or wrong so in this way it is realistic.

This character had a “human element to it” which is why I opted for it.

The actions he takes due to peer pressure and some legit circumstances. What he does after marriage is what this story is all about.

Q. How do you get into a character? How do you prepare for it? What kind of research do you do?

GR: The psyche of the character was hard to get into. While performing, I used to take some time and go sit with Angeline. Discuss how to get into the mindset of this character because I haven’t experienced these situations or anything remotely similar to it. She used to give references to help me out and make the situations a little easier to understand.

For people like my character, it’s just that “ye larki hai”.

I did a lot of research and got the stats for the rural area because this is the norm there. The number of child marriages seems to be increasing. There is a law against it, but no one knows about the basic fundamental rights that protects under-aged people being forced into marriage.

I coincidentally met a little girl, in the outskirts of Lahore, where we were shooting who was married. I was just shocked.

Q. How is the experience of working with Sarmad Khoosat and Nadia Jamil?

GR: I always wanted to work with Nado (Nadia Jamil). Incidentally, from my struggling days, I had wanted to work with her because she is such a brilliant actor. Offset she is a sweetheart, it is fun to be with her. On the set, she is the one creating the shor sharaba. She is basically the life of the party.

With Sarmad, not many people know this but I have done my second telefilm for Geo with him. Back then he was a director. Now seeing him as an actor, I was blown away (referring to Sarmad’s performance as Manto). I suggested that we should get him on-board. It has been a learning experience working with them. It’s a good ensemble and combination of actors. It is a place where we learn while having fun too.

Q. Share with us a crazy story from the sets of ‘Mujhe Jeene Dou’.

GR: Since we have only shot a small spell as of yet only one comes to mind.

So basically [an incident happened ] while [we were] shooting an intense scene with Nado and Ali Tahir. Our characters were in the heat of the moment, arguing about a very serious issue. It was going great, but out of nowhere we heard sounds like ‘khar-khar‘.

We looked at the source of disturbance and noticed two of the goats, tied to the tree in the background were busy making love. We had to call the scene off because of those two goats. It was hilarious the whole crew was in fits.

Q. A trend has emerged of creating dramas based on social issues. How do you think this impacts the society?

GR: Naturally, nobody wants to face their guilt or fear. As a human being, we all avoid situations that put us into discomfort when we are in the wrong. That is why I am not over ambitious about this project. We may not change the world but I feel if this show can prevent even one girl from getting married and facing such a miserable life; then I would consider myself lucky to have done the job.

Moreover, we are going to dub the show in the regional languages as well like Sindhi, Punjabi and it will be broadcasted at smaller channels as well because our target is to create awareness in rural areas. We hope people see this drama with a neutral and open mind. They need to unlearn some things that have become the norm. They need to know that customs like these are not okay.

Q. O21, Main Hoon Shahid Afridi, and Seedlings were your first projects on the silver screen. Currently, you are working on 2-3 more (Yalghaar, Rangreza, Maidaan and Kambakht). How would you say you have grown as an actor?

GR: As an actor, one thing I am glad about is that I have evolved. It’s something I can vouch for. It is definitely a learning curve. The earlier films are when the new wave of Pakistani cinema was emerging; these films were the first batch. I was young at that time, it was all new to me.

Now as an actor, I am more open to taking risks. Plus I do not take myself so seriously and I am comfortable in transforming myself according to the demands of the character.

Like my long hair and mustache right now is for Rangreza. Right after this project, I have to go clean shave and shed off some weight. So I like taking risks and doing something new that is what I have gained working on these films.

Q. When you take-up projects, is there anything in particular which you look at first, like an interesting plot twist, or something, which makes you say yes to the project?

GR: It all depends on how unusual or risky the project is. The quintessential, good-looking boy-next-door, those stereotypes are very boring for me. They do not excite me at all. I do not want to see myself in such roles I feel there are lots of others who fit into it and are happy with these roles.

I want to see myself as an anti-hero.

For example, Deadpool or Lewis’s role in Gangs of New York. Roles that push the envelope further those that do not fit in a box. You can’t label them. That is what I look for.

I feel Mikael from Mann Mayal was such a character who everyone hated in the beginning but near the end, after his death. People actually sympathized with him and felt that he deserved a chance.

I like doing projects that trigger mixed emotions of hatred and sympathy.

I might do contemporary or quintessential roles down the lane, but not right now.

Q. Any actor/actress you would like to work with in the future?

GR: Daniel Day-Lewis. He is the epitome of acting. I really want to work with him.

In Pakistan, I would love to work with Bushra Ansari. We are in the talks for a project so hope it happens. With boys, I have worked with almost everyone.

Q. Of all the roles you have played, which was your favorite?

GR: The next one. It is always the next one.

Q. 5 years down the lane, where do you see yourself?

GR: I have no idea. I never plan my future, because the future is not in our hands.

The post first appeared on VeryFilmi.com