Avik Anwar conquers Malaysia Championship Series Round 4
Avik Anwar, the racing sensation from Bangladesh, has created history at the Malaysia Championship Series Round 4 by winning the 300-kilometer, 3-hour race entirely on his own. Out of 58 competitors, Avik emerged as the victor, becoming the first and only Bangladeshi to achieve this feat and the sole Bangladeshi to win on international soil in motorsports to date.
Hands-on review / Apple's MacBook Pro M2 14-inch: A game-changer
After several days of intense use, the verdict is in: Apple's MacBook Pro M2 14-inch is a true game-changer in the world of laptops. This eagerly awaited addition to Apple's product lineup has left us thoroughly impressed, with its blend of cutting-edge technology, exceptional performance, and sheer usability.
Facebook just changed its logo; spot the difference
Meta, the parent company of Facebook, has rolled out an updated "identity system" for the social media giant, which includes a subtly redesigned logo. While at first glance the changes might appear minimal, a closer look reveals a darker shade of blue and a few modifications to the lowercase "f".
Jobs of the week
Here are our picks for jobs of the week.
Here are the top in-demand AI skills, jobs and how much they pay
The meteoric rise of AI has spawned a myriad of career avenues, some of which are among the most lucrative and in-demand globally. For those seeking to immerse themselves in this transformative sector, a granular understanding of the prominent roles and the core competencies required is paramount.
Made-in-Bangladesh AI: The roadblocks and the future
Intelligent Machines, a Dhaka-based company that provides enterprise AI products and data science services, has etched itself as a notable name in Bangladesh's AI-based tech industry. We recently caught up with Mohammad Oli Ahad, the founder and CEO of Intelligent Machines, to learn more about the company’s mission, technological triumphs, and the strategies propelling it forward.
Microsoft unveils its new Surface Laptop, AI powered Copilot, and more
Microsoft unveiled a slew of new products and updates at its Surface event this year. From groundbreaking hardware advancements to sophisticated software improvements, the tech behemoth continues to reshape the landscape of personal and professional computing. Here's a detailed look at the announcements that have caught the industry's attention
Bangladesh’s mobile internet 73% slower than India: Study
The country now ranks 82nd out of 121 nations in Digital Quality of Life Index 2023.
OpenAI to release DALL-E 3, the latest version of their AI art generator
OpenAI, the company behind the popular AI chatbot ChatGPT, has recently announced the newest version of their AI art generator, DALL-E 3, which can process more nuanced prompts than previous versions to provide more accurate and detailed images to users.
Apple just released iOS 17: Here are the top new features
Apple's latest software update, iOS 17, has landed with a plethora of features aimed at making your digital life simpler, more efficient, and a lot more fun. With a focus on innovation and user experience, the tech giant's newest offering has something for everyone. Here's what you need to know about iOS 17's standout features.
Nikon launches ZF, the new retro-styled full frame camera
Nikon Corporation, the famed maker of world-class cameras, has recently announced the Nikon Z f, a full-frame mirrorless camera. Featuring a design inspired by the iconic Nikon FM2 film camera, the Nikon Z f comes loaded with a plethora of modern features.
EDITOR'S PICK
LATEST
So, what happened to Threads?
When Meta, formerly Facebook, introduced Threads as a rival to Twitter, the tech world buzzed with anticipation. Touted as a groundbreaking platform for text-based content, Threads attracted record-breaking numbers of new users within days of its launch. But just three months in, data shows a steep decline in user engagement and retention. So, what went wrong?
Here's how the world's nations are regulating AI tools
In response to the recent rise of AI technologies, countries are collaborating to create comprehensive legal frameworks that prioritise safety and privacy as topmost considerations. Check out how some of the countries and nations in the world are tackling the regulation of AI tools and systems.
a2i's ekShop initiative wins UN 'SDG Digital GameChangers Award'
An initiative of Aspire to Innovate (a2i) called 'ekShop' has recently won the United Nations ‘SDG Digital GameChangers Award’. The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) jointly awarded ekShop the winner of the 'Game Changer for Prosperity' category.
Decoding the EV craze: Are they just a hype?
The increasing impact of climate change and the impending consequences are often disregarded by a significant portion of the world's population. Despite discussions on this topic for over a few decades, there seems to be little progress in conveying the urgency of the situation. In general we know that Bangladesh, along with other low-lying countries, will sink due to climate change. As sea levels rise, these countries, including Bangladesh, will be submerged. The higher the sea level, the larger the affected area will be submerged or sink. It is difficult to quantify the exact extent of this impact. Today, we will not delve into the measurements of this impact, but rather focus on our collective understanding and the actions we are taking in response.
New AI to make fashion designing more efficient
Calvin Wong, a Professor in Fashion and Textiles studies, has recently developed a designer-led AI system called Interactive Design Assistant for Fashion (AiDA), which can use image-recognition technology to make fashion designs take less time to go from first sketches to final stages of production.
Country’s first electric vehicle manufacturing plant underway in Chattogram
Bangladesh is propelling itself into the future of sustainable transportation with a colossal investment in electric vehicle manufacturing. According to reports, Bangladesh Auto Industries Limited is investing Tk 1440 crore to build the country's first electric car factory. Located in Bangabandhu Shilpa Nagar Economic Zone in Mirsarai, Chattogram, the plant is set to roll out its first cars by March next year.
STARTUPS
Bangladeshi startup MedEasy raises $750K in seed funding
MedEasy, a Dhaka-based online pharmacy startup, has successfully closed a seed funding round, raising $750,000. The investment is aimed at expanding its services and bridging the healthcare gap for Bangladesh’s 30 million chronic patients. The funding round was led by Seedstars International Ventures, Doha Tech Angels, Startup Bangladesh Limited, Accelerating Asia, and nVentures, with additional participation from various angel investors.
2 Bangladeshis named in Vogue Business 100 Innovators 2023
Two Bangladeshis have been listed in the Vogue Business 100 Innovators for the year 2023.
Bangladesh Women Investors Network launches startup fellowship for women
The Bangladesh Women Investors Network (BWIN) is launching an initiative called Bloom Fellowship that aims to equip young women with skills and knowledge required to perform in startup environments. It is a semester-long talent accelerator program with curated mentorship, training, and internships designed towards Bangladeshi women between the ages of 20 and 24.
Bangladeshi Nabanita in Forbes’ 30 under 30 Toronto list
Nabanita Nawar, a Bangladeshi researcher and entrepreneur residing in Canada, has been featured in the Forbes’ ‘30 Under 30 Local: Toronto’ list. This is the popular business magazine’s first-ever list of this kind, and she is the only Bangladeshi to be featured.
Local startup Zatiq receives $1.6 mil in pre-seed round
Zatiq, a local startup, has recently raised $1.6 mil in a pre-seed funding round led by Dekko ISHO Venture Capital (DIVC), as per a press release. The round was also participated by local and foreign angel investors.
Bangladesh Startup Summit Day 2: Jaan Tallinn, Skype Co-Founder, on Artificial Intelligence
In a riveting fireside chat during the second day of the Bangladesh Startup Summit, attendees were treated to an exclusive virtual conversation with Jaan Tallinn, the co-founder of Skype and a thought leader in the field of artificial intelligence (AI).
Bangladesh ripe ground for startup investments, discuss panellists
On the second day of the Bangladesh Startup Summit, a panel of distinguished experts convened to discuss the question, "Why Invest in Bangladesh?" The session aimed to highlight the country's appeal as an investment destination and explore the various opportunities it offers.
APPS
Here's why Facebook shows you that specific ad after you just talked about it
We've all experienced it. You're talking with a friend about a product or service, and then later finding an ad for the exact same thing while scrolling through Facebook. Is your phone listening to your conversations? Not quite. Here's a look at the intricacies behind these eerily relevant ads.
TikTok's online marketplace now available in the US
TikTok's 150+ million users in the US will now be able to see videos and live streams with links to purchase items on their feed, as it offers tools to content creators, brands, and merchants to create shoppable content.
OpenAI sued by writers for copyright infringement
OpenAI has recently been sued by a group of US authors in a San Francisco federal court over accusations of copyright infringement. The group claims that their writings have been used without their permission to train the popular AI chatbot ChatGPT.
Meta working on brand-new AI as powerful as ChatGPT: reports
Meta is developing a brand-new AI system that is expected to be as powerful as ChatGPT or any of the advanced AI models by OpenAI, as per a recent report by Wall Street Journal.
X, formerly Twitter, to collect users' biometric data and personal history
X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter, will start collecting the users' biometric data, employment history, educational background, and other personal information, as part of the app's new privacy policy.
TikTok hosts Community Guidelines workshops in Bangladesh
Global entertainment platform TikTok recently hosted multiple workshops on its Community Guidelines in Bangladesh.
Lettre: the digital renaissance of handwritten letters and stamp collecting
In an era where instant messaging and artificial intelligence dominate our conversations, two friends from Bangladesh are reviving the art of handwritten letters with a modern twist. Mashfique and Atik, the co-founders of CheeThee LLC, are set to launch Lettre, an iPad app that aims to reinvest in the depth of human relationships through deliberate communication.
GADGETS
Apple employees in France call for strike on iPhone 15 launch date
The union of Apple France store employees has called for a strike on September 22 and 23, during the much-awaited iPhone 15 launch. As per a recent post on X by CTG Apple Retail, the strike is being held because Apple management has ignored demands for improved working conditions and better pay for the employees.
Helio 80 launched in Bangladesh
Helio 80 has recently been launched in Bangladesh. The phone comes with features such as 10x zoom, electronic image stabilisation (EIS), and Android 13 OS.
Here's how much the iPhone 15 may cost in BDT
With features and functions such as the Dynamic Island, 48 MP camera, and USB-C charging support, the iPhone 15 is sure to be a treat for Apple fans everywhere. Let's find out how much the new iPhones cost.
iPhone 15 finally gets USB-C charging
Apple has announced its adoption of a USB-C charging port for the iPhone 15, replacing the previous Lightning connector.
Apple unveils the iPhone 15
Apple has launched its latest iPhone 15, continuing its tradition of yearly upgrades to its popular lines of devices.
Apple unveils Apple Watch Series 9 with innovative double-tap feature
Apple introduced its latest addition to the smartwatch line-up, the Apple Watch Series 9, at its Wonderlust event on Tuesday. The new release comes with a range of features, including a high-performance S9 SiP (System in Package) and an innovative "double-tap" function.
GUIDES
SHIFT / Car modification 101: What to know before revamping your ride
The excitement of owning your first car often comes with an itch to personalise it. Whether your goal is to improve performance or simply to make a style statement, the world of car modifications offers endless possibilities. However, the sheer number of options available can be overwhelming for beginners. In this article, we outline some of the most effective and beginner-friendly modifications that enhance both aesthetics and drivability.
How to save your smartphone from hackers
Smartphones have become an indispensable companion in our daily lives. Therefore, it is important to prioritise its security. Let's learn how to protect your smartphone from hacking.
How to identify real and fake iPhones
iPhones have a universal appeal, and many people dream of owning one, regardless of their profession.
5 books every startup founder should read
We present five indispensable books that every startup founder should read. These literary gems offer profound wisdom, practical advice, and valuable perspectives from seasoned entrepreneurs, business leaders, and thought-provoking thinkers.
How to raise funds for your startup: A guide
From crafting a compelling business plan to attracting investors, this article serves as your roadmap to financial success.
What happens when our data gets leaked: Here's how concerned you should be
A recent security breach on the website of the Office of the Registrar General, Birth & Death Registration (BDRIS) has raised significant concerns regarding data privacy and the potential consequences individuals may face when their sensitive information falls into the wrong hands. Let's will delve into the implications of such a breach, highlighting the far-reaching effects on affected individuals.
Are we ready to listen?
In a world progressively leaning towards digital content, podcasts have been capturing the imaginations of millions worldwide with their diverse and immersive experiences.
Videos and Podcasts
Developing Games in Bangladesh
Game development in Asia has largely been taking place in East Asia since the creation of video games. Is this about to change ? We talked to Mehnaz Irtika from The Daily Star, who told us about the challenges Bangladesh's game industry faces if it wants to compete with the big dogs.
Augmenting Schools - AR Learning
We explore the use of Augmented Reality in education. With us to discuss how deployment of AR could affect Bangladesh's education and consumer sector is Md. Ridwan Sakib Anjum, an in-house contributor for the Tech and Startup section of The Daily Star.
Data Thieves - Stolen Identity
Whether it's putting a photo of a drivers license #online, or going to a sketchy #website, we can all make mistake that compromise our #identity. It's even more unfair when even when we've done everything right, our #data are being #stolen. We talked with Zarif Faiaz from ANN's The Daily Star to tell us about how this is happening in Bangladesh, and how we may minimise the impact.
iPhone 15 to be released officially on September 12
Apple has officially announced its annual event, scheduled for 12 September at Apple Park. The invitation, titled "Wonderlust," indicates that the company plans to unveil its iPhone 15 series, among other products.
Why should you use eSIM?
eSIM is being introduced in Bangladesh. A private telecommunication company is set to bring eSIM to the market. But what is eSIM? What is the difference between a regular SIM card and an eSIM?
$5 billion export from ICT industry by 2025?
Bangladesh aims to achieve exports worth $5 billion from its ICT industry by 2025. The Daily Star's Tech section editor Shahriar Rahman speaks to former BASIS President Syed Almas Kabir on how it can be achieved in this episode of Star Connects.
What will solve the complications in e-commerce deliveries?
The Daily Star editor of Toggle Shahriar Rahman discusses possible solutions to the complications in e-commerce behind stagnating deliveries with Saifur Rahman, Senior IT Specialist, Australian Public Service, in Star Connects.
How TikTok's Community Guidelines aim to craft a safe online space
In the digital landscape, which often presents challenges such as misinformation and cyberbullying, TikTok has aimed to establish itself as a platform focused on user safety. Central to this aim are its Community Guidelines, which have been developed to create an environment that is intended to be safe, inclusive, and conducive to creativity.
Grand Theft Auto V turns 10 years old
September 17, 2023, marked the 10th anniversary of the much-beloved action-adventure game Grand Theft Auto V. GTA V is an open-world game filled with detail and realism in a sprawling playground filled with opportunities for chaos, crime, and adventure.
Mercedes-Benz buses now available in Bangladesh
Rancon Trucks and Buses Limited has recently launched the chassis for the Mercedes-Benz OF 1623 bus in Bangladesh. The chassis comes in two variants and is powered by Mercedes-Benz's OM 906 engine, which produces 6393 cc and 810 Nm @ 1600 RPM.
Starving souls on paradise isle: The plight of St. Martin's stranded dogs
The coral island of St. Martin's is a place that usually evokes images of tranquillity, idyllic beaches, and unparalleled beauty. However, beneath this picturesque façade lies an unsettling reality—a burgeoning dog population that faces extreme cruelty and starvation, especially during the off-season from April to October. As tourism halts, these innocent animals, often fed by tourists during the peak season, are left to fend for themselves, leading to horrifying outcomes.
How SWAT Kats captured the hearts of '90s kids
Two cats: mechanics. Also fighter pilots. A banger of an electric guitar fuelled intro theme. And a guaranteed good time in front of the old TV. In the tapestry of '90s childhood in Bangladesh, woven with the threads of cricket matches, kite flying, and endless monsoon rains, a vivid patch stands out: the excitement of gathering around to watch 'SWAT Kats'.
Shaping Bangladesh's future leaders: Career map and advice for the youth from a trailblazer
Steve Poré is the Regional Marketing Director - Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa (APMEA) at BAT, with an illustrious career. n a sit-down conversation with him, we explored Steve’s exceptional career, international exposure, insights into Bangladesh's potential and the rising prowess of its youth.
How to craft your personal brand in the contemporary job market
In today's fluid job market, the concept of personal branding has ascended from a marketing buzzword to a career imperative. Your personal brand isn't just a lofty abstract; it's a concrete strategy that could well determine your career trajectory. Here's how you can lay its foundations.
Proof of 'alien' presented to Mexican Congress
In an unprecedented congressional hearing on Tuesday, Mexican lawmakers examined what was touted as physical evidence supporting the existence of Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena (UAP), commonly known as UFOs. The hearing marked Mexico's first official government discussion on the subject, following in the footsteps of recent U.S. hearings.
Apple is unveiling the iPhone 15: Watch here LIVE
Check out where you can watch Apple's upcoming 'Wonderlust' event LIVE, as the tech giant unveils the iPhone 15 and a host of other new signature products.
Apple's iPhone 15 launch to potentially face problems in the Chinese market
Apple is expected to launch their newest lineup of smartphones, the iPhone 15, in the upcoming 'Wonderlust' event on September 12. However, recent doubts about Apple's market access in China and competition with other brands have made the much-awaited launch a potential cause for concern for the tech giant.
