Thursday, 19 December 2024
Monday, 16 December 2024
Punjab Reintroduces 42-Day Waiting Period for Motorcycle Licenses
LAHORE: The traffic police have announced the reinstatement of the 42-day waiting period for motorcyclists, requiring them to hold a learner’s permit for this duration before applying for a valid driver’s license.
The government temporarily removed the waiting period for motorcycle licenses earlier this year. Citizens could take the test for a motorcycle license right after getting a learner’s pass after the change.
Furthermore, Additional IG Traffic Mirza Faran Baig announced that the 42-day deadline for taking the driving license test has been renewed.
He further stated that this is the mandatory waiting period for motorcycle riders before they can take the driving test after obtaining their learner’s permit.
The province’s top traffic official said that no one would be able to ride a bike without a license and that all possible steps would be taken to make sure there is safety on the roads in the province.
Are Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Solana Set for Explosive Growth by 2025? Analyst Reveals Bold Predictions
With the New Year fast approaching, renowned crypto analyst Tom Dunleavy has issued bold predictions for the price trajectories of Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), and Solana (SOL) by 2025. According to Dunleavy, all three cryptocurrencies are poised for gains exceeding 150%, driven by significant market catalysts during the first year of Donald Trump’s presidency.
Price Targets for Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Solana
Dunleavy predicts Bitcoin will hit $250,000, Ethereum will trade at $12,000, and Solana will soar to $700 by 2025. These targets mark a substantial increase compared to their current prices, reflecting the analyst’s optimism about the crypto market’s potential growth.
- Bitcoin (BTC): Currently valued at $100,516.77, a 148.6% rally is needed to reach the $250,000 target.
- Ethereum (ETH): Trading at $3,814.89 after a 5.76% daily gain, Ethereum would require a 215.8% surge to achieve $12,000.
- Solana (SOL): With a recent 8.2% increase, Solana is priced at $228.93 and needs a 206.18% spike to hit $700.
Dunleavy likened his forecast to the events following President Nixon’s 1971 decision to end the Gold Standard, which triggered a 20x price rally for gold. He used Donald Trump’s current positive position on cryptocurrencies, saying similar to what happened to Bitcoin and other cryptos.
The analyst also emphasized the role of the incoming administration in driving this growth, particularly with policies favouring crypto adoption. According to Dunleavy, the first one hundred days of Trump’s presidency will be pivotal, with potential pro-crypto regulations, market reforms, and the establishment of a Bitcoin strategic reserve, laying the groundwork for a bullish market.
๐ฎ With the New Year just around the corner, crypto analyst Tom Dunleavy shares his 2025 outlook for $BTC, $ETH, and $SOL under @realDonaldTrump‘s presidency. ๐
๐ค What’s next for these top assets? ๐#Crypto
Quarter-by-Quarter Projections
Dunleavy provided a detailed timeline for the expected price movements:
- Q1 2025: The new administration’s crypto-focused agenda is expected to bolster confidence in the digital asset space.
- Q2 2025: Institutional investors are projected to enter the market, with Bitcoin and Ethereum spot ETFs gaining traction.
- Q3 2025: Prices may dip temporarily due to market corrections.
- Q4 2025: A strong recovery is anticipated, leading to sustained momentum into 2026.
The success of this bullish outlook hinges on key appointments in Trump’s administration, including crypto-friendly figures like Paul Atkins and Scott Bessent. It will be important for these institutions to be able to implement policies consistent with the crypto mandate to achieve these prices target.
Dunleavy’s predictions highlight the potential for explosive growth in the crypto market, driven by regulatory support and increasing institutional participation. However, there are factors such as market risks, which affect the execution of such policies to alter these forecasts.
Punjab winter holidays for schools begin from Dec 16?
The Punjab Education Department previously announced that winter holidays would commence on December 20, 2024, and continue until January 10, 2025. However, as of December 16, no official notification has been issued, leaving parents, teachers, and school administrators in a state of uncertainty.
Adding to the confusion, schools in Punjab were abruptly closed on December 16 following directives from the deputy commissioners of Islamabad, Rawalpindi, and Lahore. The sudden announcement, applicable to both public and private institutions, lacked an explanation, sparking speculation that winter vacations might begin earlier than originally planned.
The provincial education minister had earlier suggested reevaluating the winter break schedule due to the prolonged winter season. However, no formal changes have been announced, leaving stakeholders unsure about the updated vacation dates.
Meanwhile, Sindh’s Education Department has confirmed its winter holiday schedule, spanning from December 22, 2024, to December 31, 2024. Schools and universities in Sindh are set to reopen on January 1, 2025.
Parents in Punjab are seeking clarity, reaching out to school administrations for confirmation. While schools have reassured parents that the original holiday dates remain unchanged for now, they continue to await any further directives from the government.
The lack of timely communication from Punjab’s authorities has left families and educators in limbo, uncertain about their plans for the upcoming holiday season.
Apple Rumored to Be Developing Foldable iPhone and iPad
Reportedly, Apple will roll out a major update to its flagship lineups in the next years. The tech giant is rumoured to be working on foldable technology for its upcoming iPad and iPhone models.
In the next few months, Apple may potentially introduce its new AirTag model, Magic Mouse, and iPhone 17 Air, among other revamped devices. It is said that Apple has been working on these gadgets for quite some time, and the foldable iPhone is expected to be introduced first.
Foldable iPad and iPhone
Bloomberg claims that Apple is working on a product—maybe an iPad—with a massive 19-inch screen. According to the article, Apple hopes to minimize noticeable creases when the foldable iPad is unfolded, to make the screen look like a single piece of glass.
In addition to the newly released iPhone 16 Pro Max, the company is likewise developing a foldable iPhone with a bigger screen. This foldable is expected to launch in 2026.
According to The Wall Street Journal, another reputable magazine, the foldable iPhone may have a bigger display than the existing iPhones when unfolded. Reportedly, the launch is set for 2026, but it can be delayed by a year or two.
Saturday, 14 December 2024
Bashar-al Assad, luxury refugee in Moscow
Welcomed by Russia, Syria's deposed ex-dictator continues to live in luxury in one of Moscow's most beautiful districts.
According to some Russian journalists, he and his family are staying for a few days in one of Moscow's finest palaces, including the Four Seasons and the Hyatt. After a temporary stay in a palace, he's expected to return to one of his luxurious properties in one of Moscow's most fashionable districts.
According to the Financial Times, Assad has acquired apartments in two 300m-high, 78-storey towers. The report refers to 22 ultra-luxurious apartments with saunas, Jacuzzis and marble decorations.
The Assad family's fortune is estimated at between $1 and $2 billion, amassed during its reign in Syria.
Thursday, 12 December 2024
Who is Vivian Dsena?
Sometimes credited for “pioneering” the vampire scene on TV, he’s now become one of the head-turners on Bigg Boss. This is the story of Vivian Dsena.
Brut India is the fastest-growing digital video publisher in the country. We're a young, independent platform producing compelling journalism in new formats.
Wednesday, 11 December 2024
Tuesday, 10 December 2024
Russian economy meltdown as Moscow hit with manufacturing crisis while inflation soars
Russia is in a manufacturing crisis as Vladimir Putin grapples with inflation.
The country is reportedly struggling to assemble aircraft after Western sanctions as companies struggle to obtain the necessary parts.
Anton Gerashchenko, former advisor to Ukraine's internal affairs minister, claims that the current production volumes of the MC-21, a mid-sized airliner; Superjet New, Il-114, the latest being assembled in late 2021; and the Tu-214 are zero pieces.
Russian aviation expert Andrey Patrakov, the founder of AIM Group international aerospace experts network, told Sputnik, a Russian news agency and broadcaster, in November: "Russia has an acute problem of producing components for aircraft."
He added: "I recommend making early bookings because there simply can't be enough seats for everyone due to the fact that there are simply fewer aeroplanes.
Sunbeds 'attacked' and sprayed with anti-tourism slogans in Spanish holiday hotspot
Hundreds of sunbeds have been vandalised on the holiday island of Tenerife as locals continue to protest about overtourism.
"The Canary Islands are not for sale" and "the Canary Islands defend themselves" appeared scrawled across the beds. Authorities said they were spray-painted while other beds were slashed in the area of Arona last week.
Around 100 sunbeds were damaged at the Las Vistas Beach, while a further 136 were destroyed at El Camisรณn Beach next door, causing more than €5,000 (about £4,100) worth of damage.
Fรกtima Lemes, the mayor of Arona, criticised the vandalism, saying the acts are “an attack on the heritage of Arona” that harms both residents and visitors. She added that vandalism like this is punishable by law and called on the public to help identify those responsible.
Everything we know about Assad as he flees to Moscow over claims of 'new Arab spring'
When Hafez Assad died in 2000, parliament quickly lowered the presidential age requirement from 40 to 34. Bashar’s elevation was sealed by a nationwide referendum, in which he was the only candidate.
Hafez, a lifelong military man, ruled the country for nearly 30 years during which he set up a Soviet-style centralised economy and kept such a stifling hand over dissent that Syrians feared even to joke about politics to their friends.
Initially, upon coming to office, Assad freed political prisoners and allowed more open discourse. In the “Damascus Spring,” salons for intellectuals emerged where Syrians could discuss art, culture and politics to a degree impossible under his father. But after 1,000 intellectuals signed a public petition calling for multiparty democracy and greater freedoms in 2001, and others tried to form a political party, the salons were snuffed out by the feared secret police, who jailed dozens of activists.
How did Assad stay in power?
Assad slowly lifted economic restrictions, let in foreign banks, threw the doors open to imports and empowered the private sector. Damascus and other cities long mired in drabness saw a flourishing of shopping malls, new restaurants and consumer goods. Tourism swelled.
Abroad, he stuck to the line his father had set, based on the alliance with Iran and a policy of insisting on a full return of the Israel-annexed Golan Heights, although in practice Assad never militarily confronted Israel. In 2005, he suffered a heavy blow with the loss of Syria’s decades-old control over neighbouring Lebanon after the assassination of former Prime Minister Rafik Hariri.
Who his is British wife?
Asma Al Assad, 49, was born in London in 1975 and her parents were Fawaz Akhras, a highly-rated cardiologist at the private Cromwell Hospital, and her mum Saha, a senior Syrian diplomat. She was sent to the fee-paying Queen's College in Marylebone, where it can cost up to £9k a term. Her brothers, Feras, 46, and Eyad, 44, are also doctors.
She graduated in 1996 from King College's London with a degree in computer science and French literature and had a successful career in investment companies such as JP Morgan and Deutsche Bank. Asma had planned to begin an MBA at Harvard University when she resigned and in 2000, married Assad. They have three children together, aged between 19 and 23.
This handout picture released by the Syrian Presidency Facebook page on August 8, 2018, shows the Syrian First Lady Asma al-Assad carrying papers as she begins treatment for early-stage breast cancer at a hospital in the capital Damascus.
Why has the dictator fled to Russia?
Russian media confirmed Assad has been granted asylum "out of humanitarian considerations" after rebel forces seized control of Damascus. Russia is a staunch ally of Assad and has intervened in Syria's 13-year civil war in an effort to keep him in power, as the Kremlin has two key military bases in Syria.
In addition, Russian state TV said Russian officials were speaking to representatives of "the Syrian armed opposition" and that they had guaranteed the security of Russian military bases and diplomatic missions.
Could his wife come back to the UK?
Asma Al-Assad, who married into the brutal dynasty, has reportedly fled Syria and flown to Russia after being granted asylum by Vladimir Putin. She had been battling an aggressive form of leukaemia and is believed to have been with her daughter and two sons days before her husband fled Syria. Her parents still own the £1 million terraced house off the A40 in Acton, west London, where Asma grew up. Her family is not covered by UK sanctions, but her parents and brothers are under wider US sanctions regulations.
The High Court was told in 2020 that Assad is believed to have a frozen account with HSBC in London with a balance of more than £40 million. The British government said there has been "no contact or no request" for the Asma to return to the UK.
Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster Pat McFadden said there has no been contact for her to come back to the UK, he said: "The family are in Russia as far as we know, that's what Russian state media have said. We've certainly had no contact or no request for Mr Assad's wife to come to the UK."
Monday, 9 December 2024
Apple Set to Open Online Store and Flagship Retail Outlets in Saudi Arabia by 2026
Apple has announced a significant expansion in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, with plans to launch the Apple Store online in the summer of 2025. This new platform will offer Saudi customers the ability to shop Apple’s complete product range with Arabic-language support for the first time, enhancing accessibility and customer service.
Beginning in 2026, Apple will open the first of several flagship Apple Store locations across the country, furthering its commitment to deepening connections with Saudi customers. One of the highlights of this expansion will be an iconic store at Diriyah, a UNESCO World Heritage site, marking a milestone in the company’s growth in the region.
Tim Cook, Apple’s CEO, expressed excitement over the expansion, stating, “We’re excited to be expanding here in Saudi Arabia with the launch of the Apple Store online next year, and the first of several flagship Apple Store locations starting in 2026, including an iconic store at the stunning site of Diriyah coming later.”
“Our teams are looking forward to deepening our connections with customers and bringing the best of Apple to help people across this country explore their passions, build their businesses, and take their ideas to the next level,” He added.
In addition to its retail outlets, Apple continues to actively engage with and enhance educational programs in Saudi Arabia. The inaugural Apple Developer Academy in the region was established in Riyadh in 2021, through a collaborative effort between Tuwaiq Academy and Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University. Since its inception, the all-female academy has effectively trained nearly 2,000 students, empowering them to submit applications to the App Store and contributing to the expansion of the nation’s burgeoning app economy.
This summer, Apple has initiated its inaugural coeducational Apple Foundation Program in Saudi Arabia, a one-month course designed to impart foundational knowledge in coding and application development, with a particular emphasis on gaming. The company plans to expand the program in 2025 to enhance the learning environment for students.
Apple continues to introduce new technologies to benefit Saudi citizens, including the launch of Apple Pay for seamless, secure transit payments in Riyadh, which became the first city in the Middle East to offer this feature. With these initiatives, Apple is playing a crucial role in transforming Saudi Arabia’s digital landscape and fostering economic development.
YouTube Music Introduces New Timestamp Sharing to Transform the Way You Share Audio
YouTube Music has launched a long-awaited feature that transforms how users share songs and podcasts with timestamp sharing. Following a similar update to YouTube’s mobile app earlier this year, the new feature is now available on YouTube Music for both Android and iOS, allowing users to share specific moments in a track by adding a timestamp to the link.
With the updated Share sheet, users can now toggle the “Start at x:xx” option, located in the top-right corner. This feature enables consumers to share a song or podcast commencing from a designated point, thereby ensuring that the recipient experiences precisely what the originator intended. The timestamp is effortlessly incorporated into the URL, denoted as “t=XX [seconds],” thereby facilitating immediate access to the specified instance within the audio.
Podcast fans will find this update especially handy for sharing certain portions of episodes, but it may also be used for songs or extended performance recordings to highlight a single section. The capability is important for maintaining the same look and feel of YouTube’s properties while also making it easy to distribute to YouTube Music, YouTube, and other Google services.
Timestamp sharing is now accessible to YouTube Music users on Android, iOS, and the web, thanks to an over-the-air upgrade. The function is one of the new features that have helped YouTube Music expand and become a stronger competitor to services like Spotify.
Aside from timestamp sharing, YouTube Songs recently introduced the “Speed Dial” feature, which displays user’s favorite songs on the homepage. The site has also debuted the 2024 Recap, a personalized end-of-year report based on users’ most-listened songs and artists, like Spotify’s Wrapped.
As YouTube Music continues to roll out these features, it is positioning itself as a strong player in the music streaming industry, offering users a more personalized and versatile experience.
WhatsApp’s Upcoming Feature Will Make Sure You Never Miss an Unread Message
WhatsApp is testing a feature designed to enhance user convenience by introducing reminders for unread messages and unseen Status updates. The feature, currently available in beta version 2.24.25.29 for Android, is aimed at helping users manage their conversations and notifications more effectively.
The newly introduced feature utilizes an internal algorithm to discern frequently contacted individuals by analysing the user’s interaction history. These interactions ascertain which messages and updates are designated as reminders.
Notably, this data is retained locally on users’ devices and is neither backed up nor stored on WhatsApp servers, thereby safeguarding user privacy. Upon reinstallation of the application, the algorithm initiates a comprehensive recalibration of the data from the ground up.
Initially, WhatsApp reminders were restricted to alerting users regarding Status updates from individuals with whom they frequently interact. However, the most recent update broadens the scope of these notifications to encompass outstanding chat messages, thereby guaranteeing that significant conversations are not inadvertently neglected.
WhatsApp has articulated that the feature is intended to deliver significant, non-intrusive notifications, thereby facilitating users’ ability to maintain connections with key contacts.
When Will This Feature Be Available?
Currently, the feature is in beta testing and accessible to a limited number of users enrolled in the Google Play Beta Program. Broader availability is expected in the coming months. To try the feature, users need to update their app through the Google Play Store and join WhatsApp’s beta program.
In addition to the reminder notifications, WhatsApp is introducing a novel sticker-sharing functionality. This update enables users to transmit entire sticker packets in a single action, thereby streamlining the process of sharing and downloading new stickers. The feature is accessible in WhatsApp version 24.24.83 for iOS and is being progressively rolled out to Android users as well.
By prioritizing user experience and privacy, WhatsApp consistently engages in innovation, thereby ensuring that its platform remains both accessible and effective for the management of communication.
Internet Slowdown Causes Pakistani Freelancers to Lose 70% of Work
The ongoing internet slowdown in Pakistan has hit the freelancing sector hard, with online workers reporting a dramatic 70% reduction in work opportunities. The nationwide connectivity issues are causing widespread disruptions in various industries, particularly affecting those who rely heavily on fast and stable internet access for their work.
Freelancers, who form a substantial part of Pakistan’s digital workforce, are facing significant setbacks due to slow internet speeds. Numerous individuals have failed to meet critical deadlines, resulting in the forfeiture of contracts and, in some instances, the termination of accounts. Moreover, digital marketing initiatives are being significantly obstructed, thereby further reducing the prospects for online employment within the nation.
Experts have articulated concerns that should the current internet issues persist, Pakistan may forfeit valuable freelance clientele to neighbouring nations such as India and Bangladesh, where internet services are notably more reliable.
Regarding the persistent connectivity issues, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has implemented measures to facilitate freelancers in registering their Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) using their phone numbers. Although the registration process is intended to mitigate certain restrictions imposed by the PTA, it remains uncertain whether this solution will significantly benefit freelancers who are grappling with inadequate internet connectivity.
However, Pakistan’s information technology sector is similarly suffering the adverse effects of these internet shutdowns. The information technology sector, which has been significantly affected by shutdowns, has incurred losses exceeding $1 million per hour, with nearly all companies experiencing disruptions in their services. The sector has requested that the government develop tax incentives and policies to foster development and investment, as the ongoing connectivity challenges persist in resulting in financial losses.
These issues continue to represent some of the enduring challenges faced by Pakistan, and their prolonged impact on the nation’s freelancing industry could be catastrophic if the government does not take prompt action to rectify the existing, unstable internet connectivity.
ICA Declares 84 Pakistani Mills as Defaulters for Procurement Violations
The International Cotton Association (ICA) has officially labeled 84 textile mills in Pakistan as defaulters due to their failure to honor procurement agreements. This decision has significant ramifications, as these mills will now be barred from importing cotton from international markets.
Ahsanul Haq, Chairman of the Cotton Ginners Forum, stated that the International Cotton Association’s decision is a consequence of the textile mills’ persistent violations of their procurement obligations. This ruling will significantly hinder their capacity to procure cotton from international sources, thereby complicating their operational processes.
As reported by the Pakistan Cotton Ginners Association, the nation produced 5.2 million cotton bales by the conclusion of November 2024, representing a 33% decline in comparison to the corresponding period in the preceding year.
Despite expectations that cotton prices would rise due to the lower production; prices have instead fallen. This unforeseen decrease is ascribed to textile mills choosing to import cotton and fibers after the implementation of an 18% sales tax on domestic textile manufacturers.
The decline in cotton prices has elicited apprehensions among ginners and cultivators, who are concerned that this trend may further impede cotton production in Pakistan. To address the matter at hand, Ahsanul Haq has implored the government to reevaluate the imposition of the 18% sales tax on cotton and yarn. He underscores that this action is essential for bolstering the domestic cotton industry and mitigating the outflow of foreign exchange resulting from imports.
Major Tekken 8 Updates Set for Winter and Spring 2025
Tekken 8 continues to excite fans with new content and improvements. In 2025, players can look forward to significant upgrades that will bring even more action and features to the game, which is already famous for its dynamic gameplay and memorable characters.
Producer Katsuhiro Harada announced new content for future Tekken 8 games during the 2024 World Tour Finals.
Update for Tekken 8: Winter
Some of the new features in Tekken 8’s winter update include a player search function for enemies, a photo mode that lets you capture screenshots with hand motions and facial expressions, and cosmetics themed around the Tekken 30th anniversary. You may now connect with other players and get new customization choices with the update.
Update for Tekken 8 spring
There will be an even bigger upgrade in the spring of 2025. Season 2 is here, and it brings with it a plethora of new features and adjustments, including character abilities and balancing.
Tekken 8 has not yet featured Nina Williams’ sister Anna, but a teaser showing her suggested that there might be some interesting new content involving her.
Also, on December 12, The Game Awards will reveal the fourth DLC fighter. This comes after Heihachi Mishima’s recent comeback as a DLC character in the autumn of 2024. Fans are really looking forward to seeing this next character reveal.
Tekken 8 has announced that the Tekken World Tour will be back in 2025, keeping the excitement of competition alive for players all over the world.
Despite issues like the Gemaji Temple stage, improvements are made to improve the overall experience and keep players engaged.
Sunday, 8 December 2024
Bank Alfalah Updates Credit Card Annual Fees Starting January 2025
Karachi: Bank Alfalah, a distinguished financial institution in Pakistan, has published its revised schedule of charges, which is scheduled to come into effect on January 1st, 2025.
Among the modifications, the annual fees associated with the bank’s credit cards have been adjusted. These cards, engineered to provide seamless access to credit facilities at any time and in any location, continue to be a favoured option among consumers. The revised fees will be automatically withdrawn from the account balances of cardholders.
Bank Alfalah’s credit card portfolio encompasses a range of options, including the Platinum Card, Gold Card, and Visa Classic Card, designed to accommodate diverse consumer preferences.
Revised Annual Credit Card Fees
- Platinum Card: Rs21,000
- Gold Card: Rs11,000
- Visa Classic Card: Rs6,000
The updates are intended to augment the bank’s product offerings while preserving the accessibility and dependability of its financial services.
Here’s How Freelancers Can Now Register VPNs via Mobile Numbers
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) recently announced a new initiative that permits freelancers to register Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) utilizing their mobile numbers. This measure aims to facilitate secure and uninterrupted VPN functionality for freelancers who do not possess static IP addresses.
The PTA stated, “To facilitate the legitimate, secure and uninterrupted operations of VPN by freelancers who don’t have static IP addresses, the facility to register VPN against mobile number has been introduced by PTA.”
The PTA has launched an internet platform at https://ipregistration.pta.gov.pk where freelancers utilizing mobile data connections may now register their VPNs. The expectation was that this shortened procedure would lend a hand to the IT sector by facilitating easier and more accessible VPN access.
In its statement, the PTA further emphasized its continuous efforts to support the IT industry, indicating that more than 31,000 VPNs have already been registered. By implementing registration based on mobile numbers, the authority aimed to facilitate the process for users who depend on mobile data connections.
This initiative constituted a component of a comprehensive endeavour aimed at reconciling secure internet usage with the requirements of Pakistan’s expanding information technology and freelance workforce. The PTA reaffirmed its dedication to facilitating legitimate access to Virtual Private Networks (VPNs), which serve as an essential resource for freelancers and information technology professionals engaged in the global marketplace.
The announcement emphasized the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority’s commitment to modernizing digital infrastructure and addressing the evolving needs of the country’s technology sector.
The organization had originally established a deadline of November 30 for the registration of VPNs. Subsequently, it was determined that VPNs would not be prohibited following the expiration of the deadline, because such action would exceed the stipulated parameters.
The Ministry of Interior had previously declared the initiation of the process to terminate all unregistered VPNs by mid-November. However, it subsequently issued a two-week “grace period” to permit these unregistered VPNs to fulfil the requisite registration obligations.
Kia’s Upgraded 4th Gen Carnival Now Available in Pakistan: Pricing and Specifications
Kia Pakistan has launched its 4th Gen Carnival facelift, providing a revamped exterior design, and interior features. The all-new Carnival model comes with a perfect balance of style, along with one of the most popular multi-purpose vehicles on the market.
On Instagram, Kia Pakistan made the announcement, stating, “The Kia Carnival makes a grand return. Embark on your next journey with a new look on adventure. Whether it’s the joy of family road trips or arriving at a business meeting, Kia Carnival is more than a car—the Kia Carnival is a reflection of your success and a tribute to the moments that matter most.”
Key features of Kia 4th Gen Carnival facelift
The 4th Gen Carnival facelift brings several notable exterior advancements. Among the modifications, the newly designed front radiator grille exhibits a more vibrant aesthetic, while the enhanced integrated bumper and the updated Kia insignia contribute to a more stylish appearance of the vehicle. The incorporation of newly developed LED dual projection lamps significantly enhances both the visibility and aesthetic appeal of the vehicle, while the addition of new 18-inch alloy rims further accentuates its overall appearance. Furthermore, the upgraded rear combination taillamps offer a more dynamic and modern rear design.
Inside, the 4th Gen Carnival facelift boasts significant upgrades to improve both comfort and functionality. The updated interior design is characterised by a more spacious and ergonomic layout. The standard 12.3-inch digital TFT LCD instrument cluster can be operated with the assistance of a rheostat. The 12.3’ infotainment system is equipped with Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and Bluetooth connectivity, thereby enhancing the device’s versatility and facilitating seamless integration with your devices.
Regarding safety, the newly updated Carnival is equipped with a plethora of sophisticated features designed to guarantee a secure driving experience. These features encompass forward collision-avoidance assistance, lane-keeping assistance, and blind-spot collision-avoidance assistance. The vehicle is additionally equipped with lane-keeping assistance, rain-sensing technology, and surround-view monitoring systems to enhance visibility in the vicinity of the vehicle. Additional safety features encompass safe exit assist, rear cross-traffic collision alert and driver attention warnings, thereby rendering the Carnival a more secure option for both families and business personnel.
The fourth-generation Carnival facelift, characterized by its advanced features and sophisticated design, assures a more pleasurable, connected, and secure driving experience. It seamlessly integrates cutting-edge vehicle technology with the practicality for which Kia is renowned.
Kia 4th Gen Carnival Price in Pakistan
The launch price of the Kia Carnival in Pakistan is set at Rs17,500,000 (ex-factory rate). Users may conveniently arrange their Carnival reservations at the nearest Kia dealership.
Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg Unveils Llama 3.3 AI Model with Enhanced Efficiency
Meta has unveiled its final major AI update of the year, with CEO Mark Zuckerberg introducing the highly anticipated 70-billion-parameter Llama 3.3 model. This new model promises enhanced efficiency, achieving almost the same performance as Meta’s 405-billion-parameter model, but at a much lower computational cost.
The Llama 3.3 model, which is instruction-tuned and text-only, shows improved performance compared to its predecessors, Llama 3.1 70B and Llama 3.2 90B, in text-focused applications. In certain instances, Llama 3.3 70B approaches the performance levels of Llama 3.1 405B with notable proximity, signifying a substantial enhancement in Meta’s artificial intelligence portfolio.
Meta’s Llama system has significantly increased in prominence and utilization, now being acknowledged as the most extensively adopted AI model globally. Zuckerberg disclosed that the Llama model has been downloaded more than 650 million times, thereby reinforcing its open-source foundation. Meta remains committed to the principles of open-source development, asserting that this strategy will foster innovation and establish the company as a significant contributor to the future of artificial intelligence.
The endeavour to enhance influence transcends the realm of artificial intelligence, as Meta persists in its initiatives to solidify its pre-eminence in virtual reality (VR). Through strategic collaborations with third parties, the company seeks to enhance its offerings in both artificial intelligence and virtual reality, thereby establishing its tools as the benchmark for the forthcoming era of digital connectivity.
Zuckerberg additionally disclosed Meta’s intentions to establish a new artificial intelligence data centre in Louisiana, in conjunction with an initiative to investigate an undersea connectivity project. Moreover, Zuckerberg emphasized that Meta AI is poised to emerge as the most extensively utilized AI assistant globally, boasting 600 million monthly active users.
However, the assertion that Meta AI boasts 600 million consumers may lack complete clarity. With over 3 billion active users utilizing its array of applications, namely Facebook, Instagram, Messenger, and WhatsApp, Meta has successfully incorporated its artificial intelligence assistant into these platforms. Furthermore, the inclusion of arbitrary prompts that encourage users to create AI-generated images within these applications has likely played a significant role in the elevated user engagement statistics.
Although it is not unexpected that Meta AI has garnered a substantial user base, the level of engagement exhibited by these users with the assistant remains ambiguous. A more indicative statistic would be the duration of time consumers engage with the AI agent, as well as the frequency of their return interactions.
Ultimately, although Meta’s emphasis on artificial intelligence tools is indisputable, the genuine worth of these innovations for the company is likely to manifest in the subsequent phase, as virtual reality becomes increasingly integrated into the daily lives of users.
Honda Announces Three New Models Launching in The Next 2 Years
Honda has recently introduced the third generation of its Amaze compact sedan in the Indian market and announced ambitious plans to expand its lineup.
By FY 2026-2027, the automaker aims to launch three new models, focusing on electric and strong hybrid powertrains under its e:HEV technology and a new Honda electric badge.
Takuya Tsumura, President and CEO of Honda Cars India, shared the company’s vision for the future, emphasizing its commitment to traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles and electrified powertrains.
He stated that Honda Cars India is working on catering to the evolving needs of Indian consumers while staying invested in mainstream ICE vehicles. The focus is now shifting toward hybrids and fully electric vehicles to keep up with market trends. The details of these three new models will be revealed as the plan progresses.
Currently, Honda’s Indian lineup includes three models: two sedans and one SUV. Among them, the Honda City offers a strong hybrid powertrain, but it has not met the brand’s success expectations. With the introduction of the new models, Honda aims to bring a significant shift to its lineup.
Speculations suggest that one of the upcoming electric models may be based on the Honda Elevate, an SUV currently available in the Indian market. This move comes as automakers in India increasingly expand their presence in the growing electric vehicle segment.
Brands like Tata Motors, MG Motor, and Mahindra are already well-established in this space, while Toyota, Maruti Suzuki, and Hyundai are also preparing to enter with new electric offerings. Honda’s upcoming models are expected to strengthen its position in this competitive market.
Saturday, 7 December 2024
Donald Trump says Prince William 'doing a fantastic job' as they meet for a second time in Paris this evening
Donald Trump, the U.S. president-elect, and Prince William, the Prince of Wales, met in Paris at the grand reopening of Notre Dame Cathedral. The event on December 7, 2024, celebrated the restoration of the historic cathedral after its devastating fire in 2019. This high-profile occasion drew an array of world leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron, and representatives from over 40 countries
Storm Darragh clean-up as 12 trees still down in Staffordshire
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Who is Michail Antonio? West Ham and Jamaica forward ‘stable’ after serious car crash
Michail Antonio has been involved in a serious car crash, his club West Ham United confirmed on Saturday, but is now in a “stable condition” in hospital.
The Hammers confirmed the incident in a statement on social media and provided an additional update later in the day.
It read: “West Ham United can confirm that Michail Antonio is in a stable condition following a road traffic accident this afternoon in the Essex area. Michail is conscious and communicating and is currently under close supervision at a central London hospital.
“At this difficult time, we kindly ask everyone to respect the privacy of Michail and his family. The Club will make no further comment this evening,but will issue a further update in due course.
Who is the 34-year-old Jamaica international?
Born in Wandsworth, south London to Jamaican parents, Antonio started his career as a 17-year-old at non-league outfit Tooting & Mitcham Utd, before signing for Championship side Reading in October 2008.
He then had loan spells at Cheltenham Town, Southampton, Colchester United and Sheffield Wednesday, before moving permanently to the Owls in 2012.
Antonio scored 12 league goals in 64 appearances for Wednesday before moving to Nottingham Forest for £1.5m. A year later, in the summer of 2025, he completed a £7m transfer to West Ham United.
Antonio has evolved as a player in terms of his position; having originally started out as a right back or right midfielder, he emerged as a hard-working, powerful striker and thrived in three different spells under David Moyes.
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