All Posts in "Digital"

Increase in Demand for Telegram and Signal After WhatsApp Updates its Terms & Conditions

WhatsApp has been a popular messaging app globally due to its user-friendly features and reach. However, a recent update in its terms and conditions has ignited a debate and some people are not agreeing with it. To an extent that many of the users have started uninstalling the app.

Source: WhatsApp Website

In the wake of this update, an increase in the demand of competitive apps like Telegram and Signal have been seen. Signal also received an endorsement by Elon Musk and Jack Dorsey. Both the accounts have huge following on social media, especially on Twitter where the users questioned the privacy of WhatsApp after the recent T&C update. These activists also suggested their followers to stop using WhatsApp and move to Telegram and Signal instead.

According to the data by Sensor Tower, there were nearly 2.2 million downloads of Telegram and 100,000 downloads of Signal on Apple and Android since then.

In addition to this, Sensor Tower also reported that WhatsApp faced 11% decrease in downloads this week compared to the last one, I.e., 10.5 million worldwide. Last year, there were also rumours circulating that WhatsApp will not be available for free for its users. However, this is not confirmed yet.

Source: Androidauthority.com

About WhatsApp Privacy Terms and Conditions Update

WhatsApp is now asking users to let Facebook Inc. and its subsidiaries to use their data in order to improve Facebook advertising. This will also include sharing their location and phone numbers. Those who do not agree with the new terms and conditions, their accounts will be automatically deleted after some time.

Though One-to-one chat will remain encrypted as part of the new update, access to group chats by WhatsApp and Facebook is what is raising eyebrows.

What do you think about this story? Please share your views in the comments

hsohu by — January 11, 2021 in Blogs

“Your Father Died Just A Week Ago and You Are Posting About Drama” – Internet Trolls Attack Sarah Khan

The glamorous world of entertainment is very cruel. People do not even think for a moment before posting judgmental comments here. That is what exactly happened with Sarah Khan when she shared a picture of her latest drama Raqs e Bismil and criticism started pouring in.

Sarah and Noor Khan lost their father last week. They have already lost their mother to a long battle with cancer in 2017. Now the three sisters and two brothers are going through a lot of pain after losing both the parents, yet some netizens have got no basic manners.

Source: Instagram

It was Abdul Samad Zia, who was also Sarah Khan’s official wedding photographer, who broke this news on the internet. While many fans commented their heartfelt condolences to the Khan sisters, there were some who thought it was the perfect time to school Sarah Khan.

Ms. Khan shared the picture of “Moosa Aur Zohra” and a troll said, “Moosa n Zohra ki pari hai!!! N ur father? Abhe ek week hua hai unha gaye huye and ur posting about dramas? Oh God, kesi dunia hai ye adakari ki”. To which Sarah Khan responded, “kyun ek maheenay baad post karti to gham kum ho jata? Does that even make any sense?”

Source: Instagram

People should realize that not everyone needs their advice, especially when it is unsolicited and you are giving it to someone who is going through the trauma of losing a dear one.

This is the second saddening news we came to know in the past week. Earlier it was the death of Aiman and Minal Khan which was announced by Aiman’s husband Muneeb on social media.

We are deeply saddened by both the deaths and offer our condolences to the families.

Sajal Subhan by — January 6, 2021 in Artist

Shortly after launching in Pakistan, global ed-tech firm Library 21 acquires UK-based leadership education company IDG to offer elite courses to the public 

Highlights: 

Inspirational Development Group (IDG) is the firm behind leadership courses in a strategic alliance with the Royal Military Academy in Sandhurst

Many world leaders – including Pakistan’s top military leadership – have attended the institution. Now Pakistanis can avail the same courses through Library 21  

DUBAI, November 2 – Disruptive global ed-tech company, Library 21 Holdings Ltd (formerly known as Coded Minds), has acquired UK-based Inspirational Development Group (IDG), the firm behind leadership courses and in a strategic alliance with the Royal Military Academy in Sandhurst, UK where many world leaders – including Pakistan Army’s top brass – have studied. 

The Pakistan Army has been considered as one of the best performers in the UK’s Royal Military Academy. Recently, it won an international military drill competition known as the Pace Sticking Competition at the academy for the third consecutive time. Now Pakistanis can acquire the same courses as well through Library 21. 

Omar Farooqui, the Founder and President of Library 21 Holdings Ltd, said, “We feel proud, by virtue of this acquisition, we are an education partner of this prestigious institution that produces the world’s best leaders.”  

“The year 2020 has brought about many challenges to companies worldwide but we have used this opportunity to reaffirm our business model and drive to make education a right and not a privilege by bringing best in class offerings to the masses,” Farooqui added.

Library 21 is now providing education in Pakistan as well. The strategic acquisition means that the company will now be operating in more than 12 countries across the world and will have a complete 360 suite of education programs for pre-K to adults as well as corporates. 

IDG is the second major international acquisition by Library21. The company acquired a leading STEM and INNOVATION education company in Canada and the USA last year.

Peter Turpie, the Managing Director of IDG, said that they cherish the long-standing exclusive partnership with the Royal Military Academy for over 20 years. “We are proud that we have produced the world’s best leaders through our educational plans. Now as part of Library21 group, we are confident that we will be able to bring all our core expertise at the doorstep of tomorrow’s leaders” he remarked. 

He said the acquisition would bring world-class education to the doorsteps of students around the world. “With travel restrictions, education is now becoming more localized. Such an opportunity will benefit everyone wherever Library 21 is offering education, making it world-class education accessible”.

Turpie added, “Joining the Library21 group presents a fantastic opportunity for us and will further our ambition to build the next generation of leaders across the globe through high-quality learning experiences that are fun, innovative and accessible.”  

Web Desk by — November 4, 2020 in Business

TECNO, the fastest growing smartphone brand has launched its most awaited Hero Phone Spark 6 – a mid-range phone with 6 upgraded features at the BOL game show- hosted by Danish Taimoor. The premier of TECNO sponsored action movie ‘Real Hero’ was also revealed for the first time. The impressive transmission was also witnessed by millions at 7:00 PM on TECNO’s official Facebook page @TecnoMobilePakistan.

The audacious idea of the unveiling Spark 6 at the most popular game show ‘Game Show Aisay Chalay Ga’ received an overwhelming response. The entertaining show kept the audience engaged through a variety of interactive segments, specifically designed to appeal to the audience in attendance. Besides, the presence of many trending Tiktokers added glam to the show.

TECNO Spark 6 is the successor for Spark 4 brought many surprises, as unboxing reveals that the newbie phone is equipped with exclusive six upgraded features. Spark 6 is one of its kind due to its impeccable 16 MP Al quad Camera + flashes, dazzling 6.8′ HD dot –notch display, it has 4GB + 64GB memory, impressive 2K skin adjust video beautify feature, and advanced G70 processor. All these amazing features under the reasonable price tag of just PKR 20,599 is creating all the difference.

Moreover, the mesmerizing premiere of TECNO sponsored Action Movie, ‘Real Hero’, featuring heartthrob Ali Zafar, left every jaw dropped. The audience was thrilled to watch their favorite Ali Zafar in Hero style.

Creek Ma, the General Manager of TECNO said,
“Since TECNO’s entry in Pakistan, our brand mantra has been to strengthen the budget to mid-range smartphone category by introducing the features which are not available at such price point. We are optimistic that Spark 6 will be well received by the audience and will add spark to their lives.”


The newly launched smartphone is now available in online and offline markets, nationwide. Through the successful launch of Spark 6, TECNO is all set to overtake its rivals once again.

outlooktimes staff by — September 21, 2020 in Digital

ZEE5 Global has launched the trailer of its first Zindagi original and Asim Abbasi’s most awaited web series ‘Churails’. The web-series will be available for streaming from the 11th August on the OTT app ZEE5 and on www.zee5.com

The trailer, out now on YouTube gives us a first look into the story – a strong and unconventional narrative packed with gripping and exciting moments.

‘Churails’ is the first original Pakistani series to be launched on ZEE5, the largest streaming platform for South Asians across the globe. ‘Churails’ follows the story of four self-proclaimed Churails who come together to break some stereotypes and challenge the hypocrisy of patriarchal societies.

Directed by Asim Abbasi of ‘Cake’ fame, ‘Churails’ brings together a talented cast starring Sarwat Gilani, Nimra Bucha, Mehar Bano, and Yasra Rizvi in the lead roles.

Speaking about the upcoming series, actor Yasra Rizvi said “Churails is a story of four strong women characters but it depicts what each and every woman deals with – not just in a particular country but globally. These characters have empowered us and I’m sure even the ones who watch it will feel the same connect. We’re glad that it’s going to be seen by people worldwide!”

Nimra Bucha said “Batool had me at hello.  She was cool, fearless and unflinching. She was the friend I’d want to get me out of trouble.  And get me out of trouble she did.  Playing her has empowered me in lasting ways.  We’re in the business of entertainment, I know, but this sisterhood of Churails, playing this part is my way of telling women that I’m here and I have their back.  We’re all still living in some version of classic Greek tragedy but these Trojan women are going to kick ass.”

Sarwat Gilani said “Churails is about having a realization of what all you can do as a woman. It gives an understanding, insight, awareness, and complete realness of life through the characters and the story. The story is very well written and fabulously directed by Asim Abbasi, he literally took our breath away with his work. It has been an amazing feeling to be part of the super revolutionary change that this project is going to bring. I think Pakistani media will certainly change after Churails. Churails as a show has a lot of caliber and details to catch eyeballs at the international level. I would like to thank Zee5, Zee5 Global and Zindagi official that has given Churails a cherry on top. It was a fabulous journey to be a part of.” 

“Playing Zubaida has been a personal milestone of my career.  She taught me the value of being a protector, the importance of sisterhood and she is, in essence, a fearless warrior who is so compassionate that seeing other women in jeopardy keeps her up at night”, said Mehar Bano.

Trailer Link:

Web Desk by — August 3, 2020 in Digital

The current COVID-19 pandemic has not been easy for anyone, in particular for the kids. Apart from symptoms and disease, this pandemic has had different effects on kids, including stress, fear, anxiety, and frustration and all the more so for children who need special attention.

Ahsan Khan makes a sweet connection

An actor, a philanthropist and Government of Punjab’s Child Protection and Welfare Bureau’s Ambassador Ahsan Khan has always had a soft spot for children and he always appears to be the main face for children rights!

Ahsan Khan makes a sweet connection

Recently a mom tweeted a video about her kid Raiyan, where he gushes about how much he likes Ahsan Khan and his show “Bol Nights with Ahsan Khan” and that due to coronavirus he can’t meet his favorite superstar.             

Ahsan Khan reached out to the kid and had a Zoom meeting with him and his mother, they had a very happy talk, Raiyan told Ahsan about his love for games, current load shedding situation and much more.

Watch the whole video here:

Web Desk by — July 2, 2020 in Artist

Easypaisa Joins Hands with Haidri Beverages

Easypaisa, the first and largest mobile financial service provider in the country has entered into an agreement with Haidri Beverages Pvt. Ltd. and Northern Bottling Co. Pvt. Ltd. for disbursement of retailer commissions through Easypaisa’s cashless distribution solutions. Haidri Beverages and Northern Bottling are the largest franchisees of Pepsi Cola International, covering the entire AJK region, KPK, Gilgit-Baltistan, Federal Capital and Northern Punjab.

The Easypaisa Retailer Commissions Disbursement Solution offers a convenient solution which is not only time efficient but also minimizes risks associated with cash handling. The solution will assist retailers operating in remote locations and also those who may not possess a conventional bank account. Retailers will now have the convenience of withdrawing their commissions from over 130,000 Easypaisa locations which will be instantly disbursed to their accounts. Furthermore, the solution allows them to withdraw commissions in any denomination and also transfer funds.

Sharing his thoughts on the development, Aslam Hayat, Acting CEO, Telenor Microfinance Bank said, “We are glad to extend Easypaisa’s Retailer Commissions Disbursement Solution to support Haidri Beverages and Northern Bottlers. Easypaisa, with the help of its extensive network of agents across the country, will be instrumental in facilitating smooth and convenient commission disbursement. The agreement comes in connection with Easypaisa’s commitment to facilitate everyday transactions as part of its long term goal of digitizing cash payments and

we will continue to build such partnerships in order to support interoperability and enhance financial inclusion in Pakistan.”

Speaking at the occasion, Mr. Qasim Jaffery – Group CFO, Haidri Beverages Pvt. Ltd and Northern Bottling Co. Pvt. Ltd, said, “It gives us immense pleasure to have partnered with Easypaisa for our commission disbursement, thus giving our retailers the ease and flexibility to access their commissions in a reliable and secure manner. Retailers are at the core of our business and as leading bottlers in Pakistan, we believe in connecting with our retailers by giving them greater accessibility to services by partnering with innovative financing solutions like Easypaisa.”

Since its launch in 2009, Pakistan’s pioneer branchless banking service Easypaisa has been instrumental in transforming the banking and finance outlook of the country through ground-breaking products and services. It has played a pivotal role in bringing the unbanked population into the fold of banking services through its initiatives aimed at strengthening financial inclusion in Pakistan.

outlooktimes staff by — May 30, 2019 in Digital

BankIslami and EFU Life join hands

BankIslami Pakistan Limited and EFU Life Assurance Limited have entered into strategic alliance for distribution of EFU Life’s Hemayah Family Takaful products.

BankIslami is one of the leading Islamic banks operating through a network of 330 branches in 114 cities in Pakistan. EFU Life is one of the leading life insurance companies in Pakistan and is the first Window Family Takaful Operator licensed by SECP.

The signing ceremony was held at BankIslami Head Office Karachi and the agreement was signed by Syed Amir Ali, President & CEO of BankIslami and Mr. Taher G. Sachak, MD & CEO of EFU Life. Mr. Bilal Fiaz, Head-Consumer Banking of BankIslami, Mr. Laeeq Ur Rehman, Head-BancaTakaful of BankIslami, Mr. Mohammed Ali Ahmed, Executive Director of EFU Life and other senior officials from both the organizations also attended the ceremony.

Speaking on the occasion, Syed Amir Ali, President & CEO of BankIslami said, “On this prestigious occasion, two of the leading organizations in their respective sectors have entered into a partnership. This strategic alliance will certainly help in providing better services to our customers. With this alliance, we are inking a new chapter in the success story of BankIslami’s BancaTakaful products.

Mr. Taher G Sachak, MD & CEO of EFU Life said, “We are delighted to have BankIslami on board as our Bancatakaful distribution partner. EFU Life and BankIslami share the same vision of creating value and convenience for their customers through innovative Shariah Compliant financial solutions for their saving and protection needs. There is a huge potential for Shariah Compliant takaful solutions in Pakistan and together with BankIslami we aim to penetrate further into this segment”.

outlooktimes staff by — May 15, 2019 in Digital