Samsung Galaxy S9 & S9+ launched in Pakistan

The global leader in technology and electronics – Samsung has launched its most advanced mobile series, the Samsung Galaxy S9 & S9+ that feature a fascinating camera that has taken a step further and introduced super slow-mo, as one of the most striking features to accentuate its focus on a better camera and unparalleled video performance. A huge ceremony was held in Lahore. The President of Samsung Pakistan – Mr. Y.J. Kim was the chief-guest. 

The Samsung Galaxy S9 and S9+ smart phones are reimagining the way people communicate, share and experience the world. Made for an age in which consumers increasingly communicate and express themselves more with images, videos and emojis, the Galaxy S9 and S9+ drive innovation with Samsung’s advanced camera. Redesigned with a new Dual Aperture lens that powers an innovative low light camera, Super Slow-mo video capabilities and personalized AR Emoji, the Galaxy S9 and S9+ ensure users do not miss a moment and make their everyday epic. 

The Galaxy S9 and S9+ deliver an enhanced entertainment experience with powerful stereo speakers tuned by AKG, immersive audio with Dolby Atmos® and a refined edge-to-edge Infinity Display– a key staple in Samsung’s design heritage. In addition, the Galaxy S9 and S9+ will come with the new SmartThings app, which unites Samsung’s existing IoT services into one single, smart experience. 

“The way we use our smartphones has changed as communication and self-expression has evolved,” said Mr. Y J Kim, President Samsung EC Pakistan. “With the Galaxy S9 and S9+, we have reimagined the smartphone camera. Not only do the Galaxy S9 and S9+ enable consumers to shoot great photos and videos anywhere, they are smartphones designed to help them connect to others and express themselves in a way that’s unique and personal to them.” 

Today’s cameras are for more than taking pictures – they’re for connecting and communicating. Consumers want a smartphone camera with state-of-the-art technology, so they can express themselves with high-quality images and tools to tell their own, unique story. The Galaxy S9 and S9+ cameras are built with these consumers in mind, with a Super Speed Dual Pixel sensor with dedicated processing power and memory to take amazing shots with high photo quality. The Galaxy S9 and S9+’s camera features include: 

• Super Slow-mo: Make every day moments epic with dynamic, slow-motion video that captures 960 frames per second. The Galaxy S9 and S9+ also offer automatic Motion Detection, an intelligent feature that detects movement in the frame and automatically begins to record – all users have to do is set up the shot. After capturing the Super Slow-mo video, users can select background music from 35 different options or add a tune from their favorite playlist. Users can also easily create, edit and share GIF files with a simple tap in three playful styles of looping to watch the action over and over again. 

• Low Light Camera: Good lighting is the secret to any great photo. But often, photos are taken in less-than-ideal lighting conditions and most smartphone cameras have a fixed aperture that can’t adjust to low or bright lighting environments resulting in grainy or washed out pictures. Similar to the way the iris of a human eye expands and contracts, Samsung’s Dual Aperture (F1.5 / F2.4) automatically lets in more light when it’s dark and less light when it’s too bright, taking photos that are crisp and clear. 

• AR Emoji: Samsung lets users create an emoji that looks, sounds and acts like them. AR Emoji uses a data-based machine learning algorithm, which analyzes a 2D image of the user and maps out more than 100 facial features to create a 3D model that reflects and imitates expressions, like winks and nods, for true personalization. AR Emoji shares users’ real-life emotions not only in video but also with a range of stickers and uses a standard AGIF file format so users can share their emojis across most third-party messaging platforms. 

• Bixby: Samsung’s intelligence platform, integrated into the camera, uses augmented reality and deep learning technologies to provide helpful information about a user’s surroundings. With real-time object detection and recognition, Bixby instantly generates information directly on top of the image that the camera is pointing at. Users can translate foreign languages and currency in real time with Live Translation, learn about their surroundings, purchase products seen in the real world and track calories throughout the day. 

Smartphones are often our go-to choice for entertainment, which is why Samsung created a device that offers premium sound experiences with stereo speakers tuned by AKG. Whether users are watching their favorite movie or streaming their favorite artist’s latest album, sounds are clear, crisp and rich in quality. The Galaxy S9 and S9+ also support Dolby Atmos, giving the effect of 360-degree sound. 

The Galaxy S9 and S9+ audio experience is complemented by Samsung’s revolutionary Infinity Display. First introduced on the Galaxy S8, the bold, bright Super AMOLED Infinity Display blends right into the phone with virtually no distracting notches. With adaptive contrast enhancement, users can use their device even in direct sunlight. 

As the first smartphone to support the new SmartThings app, the Galaxy S9 and S9+ are the central hub to manage every facet of the connected lifestyle at home, at the office or on the go. The SmartThings app will be introduced with the Galaxy S9 and S9+ and will connect to other Samsung and non-Samsung devices. 

For those constantly on the move, the next-generation Samsung DeX empowers a mobile lifestyle by bringing a large, full-screen experience to the mobile handset. With the DeX Pad, a new docking system, users can easily connect the Galaxy S9 and S9+ to a larger monitor, keyboard and mouse to expand the mobile experience with enhanced document editing or even full-screen gaming. Users can also transform the Galaxy S9 and S9+ into a Touch Pad with the DeX Pad. 

Samsung sets the gold standard for smartphones with IP68 water and dust resistance and wireless charging and goes a step beyond with the Galaxy S9 and S9+. The devices now support expandable memory of up to 400GB with a Micro SD Card and are equipped with the latest premium application processors offering powerful performance and sophisticated image processing. 

In addition, the Galaxy S9 and S9+ give users the peace of mind knowing that their phone is protected by Knox 3.1, Samsung’s latest defense-grade security platform. The Galaxy S9 and S9+ support three different biometric authentication options – iris, fingerprint, and facial recognition – so users can choose the way they want to protect their device and applications. The devices feature Intelligent Scan, a new verification that intelligently uses the collective strength of iris scanning and facial recognition technology to quickly and conveniently unlock a user’s phone in various situations. The Galaxy S9 and S9+ also introduce Dedicated Fingerprint, giving users the option to use a different fingerprint to access Secure Folder than the one used to unlock the phone. 

The Galaxy S9 and S9+ take health to the next level with an improved optical sensor built directly into the device, providing richer, more accurate information on users’ health status. This sensor allows the Galaxy S9 and S9+to keep track of users’ Heart Load Factor, a new measurement of the real-time demand placed on the heart 

The Head of Mobile division Samsung Pakistan and Afghanistan Mr. Umer Ghumman stated: “We are proud to introduce this power-packed device, which promises a whole new world of info-tainment and multi-tasking, with powerful global connectivity, for the consumers aspiring to excel in today’s highly competitive and fast-paced world. It empowers and inspires the user to do, what others think they can’t do. 

These smart-devices S9 and S9+ available at a price of Rs.103,000 and Rs.114,000 in Pakistan and are available in three attractive colors.

Samsung launches Galaxy S9/S9+ at retailers training event in Pakistan

Samsung is a global technology leader manufacturing powerful devices and award-winning innovations that enjoy tremendous popularity in Pakistan. Samsung is now conducting a training program in Karachi, Lahore and Islamabad in order to enhance retailer’s knowledge about its latest innovative device – the Samsung Galaxy S9/S9+. This training will assist customers in their purchase journey for Galaxy S9/S9+.

Samsung has launched this advanced training program for its retailers atKarachi on 12th March, Islamabad on 13th March and Lahore, on 14^thMarch. The retailers are being trained to demonstrate high service standards, while selling the world’s most premium products and technologies from Samsung.

The President of Samsung Pakistan – Mr. Y. J. Kim stated that: “Training of our retail network and enhancing the skills of our front-line personnel is a high priority exercise at Samsung. With the launch of the S9/S9+ the customers will now reimagine their camera experience and this training will enable our partners to communicate the new exciting features to the consumers. Samsung will continue to innovate, enrich lives and build upon its promise of “Do What You Can’t”.

CPEC is not against any country but for peace and prosperity: Sartaj Aziz

Deputy Chairman of Planning commission, Sartaj Aziz said that CPEC is vital for the whole region and is not against any country but for the peace and prosperity for all the nations around the globe.

He was addressing the session on China Pakistan Economic Corridor during the 2nd day of Pakistan Capital investment summit & Expo 2018 held in Islamabad.  Sartaj Aziz said that CPEC is not just about roads and infrastructure but its all about people to people connectivity for the brighter future of the world. CPEC will transform our country into an economic power that all the Pakistanis wanted.

While commenting on the economic growth, he told that Pakistan was stuck at merely 3% growth rate from 2006 onwards for almost 7, 8 years but during last 4 years of current government economic growth witnessed by all and government is eyeing to achieve 6% growth in current year.

He said that Chinese President Xi's idea of one belt one road is just a concept to building roads , it connects policies, public and intellectuals. He said that Pakistan is proud that CPEC is flagship project of OBOR and Pakistan's CPEC is far ahead of other countries in terms of progress regarding OBOR project.

He mentioned that exports have expanded and China has become the highest export partner for Pakistan. Sartaj Aziz further stated that in the next phase of CPEC implementation, railway infrastructure will be built at greater level. He assured that Pakistan will become a powerful economy by 2030. 

During the session, Director General FWO, Lt. Gen. Muhammad Afzal said that Pakistan is not just a bridge between China and sea but realistically Pakistan is to connect the whole world. He stated that all the law enforcement agencies are well geared up to face any challenge in implementing the CPEC. He told that there is no security threat to CPEC, he offered his fullest support if any investor want to visit Baluchistan for investment. He mentioned that there are number of opportunities of investment in different sectors like mining, real estate etc.

In other sessions of the summit, outlook and investment potential of energy sector, Creation of value through technology and FDI and challenges, potential & future of wealth management in banking sector  were discussed.  Key industry leaders and dignitaries from government institutions were among the panelists.

Yusuf Hussain CEO, IGNITE elaborating on the IT industry in Pakistan said that this industry is growing rapidly and today it is worth $3.5 billion and is expected to double in next three years. The leaders in IT industry were of the view that IT industry has the potential to grow and create a big base for employment generation.

3 day Capital investment summit & Expo 2018 kicks off in Islamabad

Pakistan’s largest saving and investment show  " Capital investment summit & Expo 2018"  started at Pak-China friendship centre Islamabad discussing the capital investment market situation of Pakistan. The event brought together investors from around the country, industry experts, and prominent names in the capital investment business.  Event has been organized by Pakistan Guarantee Export corporation limited supported by Board of investment, Ministry of Finance, Ministry of overseas Pakistan and overseas Pakistanis foundation.

State minister for finance Rana Muhammad Afzal was the chief guest of the event. While addressing the inaugural session, State minister for finance Rana Afzal said that Pakistan of 2018 is totally changed with so much economic improvements. We have created an favorable environment for investment. He stated that Pakistan is now competing the developed economies.

While commenting on the CPEC, Rana Afzal said that CPEC is a clear example of how Pakistan is investment friendly country and investors are well protected by laws. He urged more investors to get benefit from Pakistan's favorable investment policies. He said that Pakistan is one of the top flexible and intelligent labor force provider in the world.

Speaking on the occasion , Secretary board of Investment (BoI) , Sumaira Nazir Siddiqui , said that Pakistan's economy growing at rapid pace and our all economic institutions are investment friendly. She  told that investor friendly policies are bringing huge impact on economy and more investors are coming to Pakistan feeling their money well protected.

Mr. Richard Morin, MD Pakistan Stock Exchange went on to emphasize the importance of the capital market  in overall economic growth of the country. He said that situation has improved a lot and they are working on to minimize the challenges.

Mian Mehmood, Chairman Pakistan Guarantee Export corporation limited, said that the aim of the event is to bring experts on one platform to discuss the current and future potential of Pakistan's capital investment market. He said that investors from around the globe are willing to invest in Pakistan and such events will help Pakistan to show the real worth of our market and will attract more players to join. He said that we all are here to discuss the challenges, possibilities and way forward.

The plenary session on “Country Profile: Pakistan The Trillion Dollar Market” remained the most attractive session with the focus on China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). Ms Amena Cheema, the former Chairperson Punjab Board of Investment & Trade (PBIT) gave a presentation on the prospects of investment in various Special Economic Zones (SEZs). She mentioned about 10 CPEC SEZs in which the investment is being facilitated by offering incentives specially by minimising the time and cost of starting industrial projects in these SEZs.

Ms Teresa Sanchez, who had arrived in Pakistan a week ago as Resident Representative for International Monetary Fund (IMF) highlighted the major aspects of seeing Pakistan as an emerging economy.

The session on “Pakistan’s Capital Markets: Journey to Best Performer Status & Future Expectations” focused on expanding the base of Pakistan’s Capital Market by getting more companies to be listed in the market. Mr Richard Morin, MD Pakistan Stock Exchange highlighted the areas as how to increase the investor base in Pakistan’s Capital Market. The participants were of firm view that investment in Capital Market can be increased by creating more awareness and educating the people.

The last session of the first day “Capital Markets: Regulation, Taxation & Growth” focused on how the government can help grow Capital Market through introducing better regulation, tax incentives that can actually lead to more investment in the Markets.

Pakistan’s Biggest Machinery Expo - ITIF Asia 2018 - Opens Today

Incorporating Auto & Transport Asia, Engineering Asia, Oil & Gas Asia and Power & Alternative Energy Asia

One of Pakistan’s leading trade fair organizers Ecommerce Gateway is all set to organize Pakistan’s Biggest Machinery Expo, starting in Karachi from 13^th March including 14^th & 15^th March 2018. This prodigious event will be held at the Karachi Expo Center. These 3 days of events will include Auto & Transport Asia, Engineering Asia, Oil & Gas Asia and Power & Alternative Energy Asia.

This large scale machinery expo will have more than 350+ Chinese delegates attending the expo including a high powered delegation of Chinese provincial ministers that will be attending the exhibition. Furthermore, the expo will feature over a 1000 local and foreign exhibitors and is expected to be attended by more than 85,000 people, whereby all major players will get an opportunity to display and market their products and services. It will also give a platform to the international investors, manufacturers, traders and foreign entrepreneurs to interact with various segments of Pakistani consumers. As a result, the expo provides a boost to Pakistan’s economy by encouraging the machinery export sector. 

These diversified events include: The 17th International Auto, Transport & Logistics Asia– the biggest platform for the presentation of the products from Automobile industry, Commercial Vehicle industry, Railway Industry, Next-Gen Battery Industry and Airlines Industry. The 17^th International Engineering Show- a leading event featuring the advancements in technology and breakthrough inventions in the Engineering Sector. The 17^th International Oil & Gas Machinery and Technology Asia – is the largest platform in the continent for exhibiting high-end products and services of this sector. The International Mines, Mineral & Metal Expo Fair – is a vibrant platform for all international and national stakeholders to showcase the latest products and innovations of this highly lucrative industry. Chinese government representatives from Beijing, Guizhou Province and Suizhou Hubei will be attending the exhibition.  A prestigious conference has also been scheduled with the Chinese delegation presenting on topics such ‘Sunward China greetings to Pakistani friends!’ presented by Mr. Xiao Yang looking after Sales & Marketing in Pakistan and South Asian Countries for Sunward Intelligent Equipment Co. Ltd and ‘To build a beautiful and efficient life in Pakistan’ presented Yang Li Managing Director of Overseas Market, Chengli Special Automobile Co. Ltd.

FFC Wins UN Global Compact “Best Sustainability Award”

FFC CSR program has been awarded the first prize in UN Global Compact 2017 Business Sustainability Awards. FFC was represented by Head of CSR Brig (Retd) Abid Mahmud at the ceremony. The award was to recognize FFC exemplary CSR program, compliance to the UNGC Ten Principles and on ground interventions supporting the global vision of “2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development Goals”.

FFC was ranked first under Large National Categories and the prize is testament to FFC’s continuous commitment to sustainable and responsible practices, which has been centric to company’s business strategies and operations. In 2018, FFC is proudly celebrating its 36^th year of excellence and service to society through Pakistan’s most extensive and comprehensive CSR program.

               

Samsung Electronics Unveils a Simple, Seamless and Intelligent IoT Experience at MENA Forum 2018

·    Samsung is propelling Internet of Things (IoT) forward by incorporating SmartThings & AI across product categories

·        Samsung has taken a step further in enhancing the ultimate home entertainment experience with the introduction of the all-new 8K QLED TV and theintegration of SmartThings across its Smart TV line-up

·     Samsung is redefining connectivity in the home with the IoT-ready QuickDrive™ washing machine and Wi-Fi connected Wind-Free™ air conditioner, while bringing the hub of the kitchen to life with voice ID recognition on its Family Hub refrigerator

·      Samsung is infusing technology with intelligence through integrating Bixby and SmartThings on its smart mobile devices

 Samsung Electronics Middle East and North Africa (MENA), today unveiled its vision of open innovation and purposeful collaboration to create seamless, synchronized and smart experiences that simplify consumers life.At its eighth annual MENA Forum, Samsung elaborated on its strategy of enhancing its IoT propositions through the introduction of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and SmartThings which will unify Samsung’s connected devices.

In addition to its commitment to make all Samsung products IoT ready by 2020, Samsung announced that itsdevices will also be intelligent. Through the integration of Bixby across select home and smart devices, Samsung is bringing its personalized intelligence to more devices making everyday tasks easier.

During the forum, key new products were announced, which included the brilliant new 85 inch 8K QLED TV, the connected QuickDrive™ washing machine, and the Galaxy A8 smartphone. In addition to its new product lineup, Samsung showcased how the SmartThings platform will be integrated across its devices, seamlessly connecting devices under one simple platform, managed by one ubiquitous cloud, accessible through one universal app.

“Our drive to continuously innovate stems from the desire to turn concepts into reality,” said Sungwan Myung, President of Samsung Electronics Middle East and North Africa. “IoT has made significant progress in recent years, and it is our role as a leading innovator to contribute towards the acceleration of IoT adoption. What we have shown today is an actual use-case of an IoT experience, and how it can seamlessly be intertwined into everyday life.”

“By infusing intelligence into IoT, we aim to make smart simplified and enrich the lives of consumers. We are taking meaningful steps towards building an entirely connected world that is intelligent and personalized.” concluded Mr. Myung.

During the Forum, Samsung conducted its annual docent program for attendees to experience the new products. Similar to a guided museum tour, guests got a first-hand look at what Samsung has in store for the year ahead.

Enhanced and Seamless Entertainment Experience with QLED

Samsung outlined its new technological innovation to deliver seamless connectivity on its Smart TV lineup at MENA Forum. Through convenient, secure, and seamless connected experiences, the television will become the dashboard for connectivity and the true centerpiece of the home.

Introducing a new innovation to the fore, Samsung’s 8K QLED TV will be equipped with the world’s first 8K Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology to truly enhance the viewing experience, making it interactive and intuitive. The AI technology in Samsung’s new 8K QLED uses machine learning to analyze content and automatically upscale low-resolution images into 8K picture quality. Through features like detail enhancement, noise reduction, edge restoration, and automatic sound adjustment, the 8K QLED TV maximizes the viewing experience and transforms any type of content from any source into high-resolution 8K quality.

Samsung has also introduced SmartThings across its Smart TV lineup, which will allow users to seamlessly connect with the TV as an extension of their home. With SmartThings, Samsung’s Smart TVs become a dashboard for the entire Samsung product ecosystem, enabling users to manage and monitor all their connected devices from a TV that works with their lifestyle.

Additionally, Samsung showcased its NW700Soundbar Sound+ at MENA Forum, which rounds out the home entertainment experience to truly immerse viewers in their favorite TV content. The NW700Soundbar Sound+ delivers dynamic and targeted sound through a range of advanced sound-enhancing features, all wrapped into a slim and sleek design that can be mounted on the wall. With three sound modes including Standard Mode, Surround Mode, and Smart Mode, users can tailor their listening experience to create an advanced home theatre system that suits their viewing needs.

Redefining Connected Living with the Latest Home Appliances

This year’s MENA Forum revealed a truly distinguished lineup of home appliances featuring breakthrough innovations that enable users to seamlessly live in a connected home, and enhance intelligent IoT experiences.

Another first for the region, Samsung introduced its new IoT ready QuickDrive™ washing machine, which allows users to start, stop, and monitor their wash cycle from their other connected devices. The QuickDrive™ washer also features Samsung’s intelligent laundry assistant, which uses AI to provide automatic recommendations for optimal washing cycles.

Samsung’s Wind-Free™ air conditioner, uses a first-of-its-kind two-step cooling system that dramatically reduces energy consumption and, thanks to Wi-Fi connectivity, can be controlled remotely.

Finally, Samsung is truly making IoT intelligent by introducing the Family Hub. In addition to its advanced functionalities, the Family Hub will also includeVoice ID recognition to provide customized information for individual family members based on their preferences.

Infusing Technology with Intelligence, Anchored by Your Smart Devices

Samsung showcased an ecosystem of mobile products that are designed to simplify the user experience. At the center of these technologies are the personal smart devices that provide absolute integration of connectivity and intelligence, through SmartThings and Bixby, enabling seamless and smart experiences.

Samsung’s latest lineup of Galaxy smartphones boasts an array of advanced features alongside improved and enhanced Bixby functionality. Among those showcased are the Galaxy Note8, the Galaxy S8 and the all new Galaxy A8, launched in January 2018, which revolutionizes the youth smartphone category with top-notch technologies and features at an affordable device.

Adding another layer of dimension to its mobile ecosystem is Samsung CUE, Samsung’s first-ever digital content retail store launched exclusively in the Middle East and North Africa. Samsung CUE features an extensive library of music to stream or download, a diverse collection of both regional and local magazines, and thousands of ringtones to enjoy.

Finally,Samsung’s ecosystem driven by SmartThings takes the convenience that defines wearable technology even further by enabling users to operate their connected devices from several advanced wearables.This ecosystem also expands to include devices like the Gear 360, Gear VR, and DeX – all united by SmartThings, the revolutionary technology that seamlessly connects devices under one simple platform, managed by one ubiquitous cloud, accessible through one universal app.