Next Step / Investing in the future
Bangladeshi-born American venture capitalist Sakib Jamal has recently achieved recognition of being listed in Forbes' prestigious 30 Under 30 list for 2024 in the North America region, in the Venture Capital category. In an interview with The Daily Star, the young venture capitalist dives into his background, experiences, and projects of both past and present.
GTA 6 trailer to be released on December 5
Grand Theft Auto 6, one of the most anticipated game by gamers around the world, is set to release its game trailer on December 5 at 9 am ET ( 8 pm Bangladesh time) according to a post on X by Rockstar.
Dr Razia receives OPCW-The Hague Award as the first Bangladeshi
Professor Dr. Syeda Sultana Razia of Chemical Engineering Department of Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET) has been awarded this year's prestigious 2023 OPCW-The Hague Award, in recognition of her efforts to educate the people about the peaceful uses of chemistry, particularly in chemical safety and security.
Saiful Islam from Bangladesh qualifies for official Street Fighter 6 tournament
M Saiful Islam Anik, an e-sports player from Bangladesh, has qualified for the main stage of Capcom Cup X, the official Street Fight 6 tournament held by Capcom. Anik will be the sole Bangladeshi representative in this event.
ChatGPT turns 1 year old
ChatGPT, the popular AI chatbot by OpenAI, has turned 1 year old today. Since its launch on November 30, 2022, the AI text generator has been at the forefront of natural language processing, showcasing its versatility in various applications, from business, communication, education, and programming to creative content generation.
Meet BharatGPT, the Indian alternative of ChatGPT
CoRover.ai, an India-based AI firm, has launched BharatGPT as an Indian counterpart to the popular AI chatbot ChatGPT. With support for more than 12 Indian languages, the platform collaborates with BHASHINI, a National Language Translation Mission (NLTM) under The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) of India.
Here’s how to find your Spotify Wrapped
As the year draws to a close, Spotify Wrapped has become a much-anticipated annual tradition for music enthusiasts. This feature of Spotify compiles a comprehensive summary of your musical journey throughout the year, presented in vibrant and engaging graphics. From top songs to unique listening habits, Spotify Wrapped offers users an insightful reflection of their year in music.
GTA trilogy coming to Netflix on December 14
Netflix has announced that three Grand Theft Auto (GTA) titles—GTA III, Vice City, and San Andreas—will be available for free on Android and iOS devices for subscribers starting December 14. Netflix users worldwide, including users in Bangladesh, can secure early access by pre-registering on the Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
PM to take charge of Science Ministry; Palak to head Posts and Telecom
In a recent cabinet reshuffle, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has been assigned with the additional role of overseeing the Ministry of Science and Technology, while Zunaid Ahmed Palak, the State Minister for Information and Communication Technology (ICT), has been assigned with the additional responsibilities of the Posts and Telecommunications Department, following the departure of the two technocrat ministers from these ministries.
Starlink satellite units to be established on the Gaza Strip with Israeli approval
Starlink, a satellite internet system operated by Elon Musk’s SpaceX, will be allowed to operate over Gaza if the satellites are approved by Israel, according to Israel's Minister of Communications.
Amazon unveils new AI chip for training AI
Amazon has recently unveiled its brand new AI chip that will be used for the company's cloud computing service. Named Trainium2, the second-generation chip is designed for training AI systems and is said to be four times faster and twice as energy efficient as its previous model.
LATEST
OpenAI likely to deny board seat to Microsoft: report
OpenAI, the parent company of ChatGPT, is not likely to grant board seats to investors such as Microsoft, Khosla Ventures, and Thrive Capital for its new board, according to a source familiar with the matter.
Bangladeshi Sakib Jamal on Forbes 30 under 30 list
Bangladeshi born Sakib Jamal has been named in Forbes' prestigious 30 Under 30 list for 2024. This annual list by Forbes is a compilation of the most influential and promising individuals under the age of 30, drawn from various sectors such as business, technology, arts, and more. This recognition follows his earlier inclusion in Crain's New York Business 20 under 20 list earlier this year.
SUST students develop wireless charging electric vehicle
Students from the Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering (EEE) at Shahjalal University of Science and Technology (SUST) have recently developed a prototype of a light-duty electric vehicle that is capable of being charged wirelessly.
CrackPlatoon launches commercial EV charging station at Dhaka
CrackPlatoon Charging Solution Ltd, in collaboration with Dhaka Electric Supply Company Limited (DESCO) and Sumatra Filling Station, recently launched their first ever commercial Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Infrastructure at Manikdi, Dhaka Cantonment.
250cc Bajaj Pulsar N250 launched in Bangladesh
Uttara Motors, the manufacturer and distributor of Bajaj motorcycles in Bangladesh, has recently launched The Pulsar N250 motorcycle.
Jack Ma launches new pre-packaged food company
Jack Ma, the renowned founder of Alibaba Group Holding, has recently launched a brand new company that specialises in prepackaged food. The company, inaugurated in China this Wednesday, boasts an initial capitalisation of 10 million yuan (US$1.39 million), according to Nikkei Asia.
STARTUPS
Pathao co-founder Elius’ new startup raises USD 3.8 mln
Wind.app, a fintech startup founded by Hussain Elius, former CEO and co-founder of the Bangladeshi ride-sharing platform Pathao, has recently received USD 3.8 million in pre-seed funding.
Bangladeshi startup Drutoloan raises USD 125k in pre-seed round
Druto Fintech Limited, a Bangladeshi fintech startup, has recently secured USD 1,25,000 in a pre-seed funding round. The investment comes from both local and foreign backers such as Ridwan Hafiz, CEO of GoZayaan, and Razy Shah, co-founder of Singapore's 2Stallions Digital Marketing Agency, as well as other investors.
Orange Corners Bangladesh hosts investor meet
Orange Corners, an initiative of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands, has recently hosted its first-ever Investors Meet, jointly organised by the Embassy of the Netherlands in Bangladesh and SAJIDA Foundation.
Cybersecurity company EIC selected for Stanford seed program
Enterprise Infosec Consultants (EIC), a Bangladeshi cybersecurity service provider, has been selected to participate in the Stanford Seed Transformation Program. According to a press release, the program is recognised for its curriculum and insights sourced from the Stanford Graduate School of Business.
ShareTrip launches ST Pay; gets new round of investment
ShareTrip, an online travel agency in Bangladesh, has launched a new financial service called ST Pay (ShareTrip Pay). A new round of investment in ShareTrip from Startup Bangladesh was also announced alongside the new feature.
Edtech startup Interactive Cares raises $100k funding
Interactive Cares, a Dhaka-based ed-tech startup, has $100,000 in funding from a seed round in the 9th cohort of Accelerating Asia's accelerator program.
Startup Bangladesh to invest Tk 100cr in 46 startups
Startup Bangladesh Limited, a government-backed venture capital firm, is set to inject Tk 100 crore into 46 selected startups, aiming to strengthen the country's startup ecosystem. Since its establishment in 2020, the company has actively approved investments totaling Tk 73.50 crore across 28 companies, dispersing Tk 64 crore. These investments span critical sectors such as healthtech, agritech, edtech, logistics, fintech, e-commerce, and renewable energy.
APPS
MySpace, Google+, Vine: How did they die?
While many popular social media sites have been able to retain their initial boom in popularity for years to come, there are the unfortunate ones that got lost in the waves of modern innovation and user engagement. Let's take a look at three once-popular social platforms that have died over the years: MySpace, Google+, and Vine, and find out what led to their untimely demise.
How to look for jobs in X, formerly Twitter
X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter, has recently launched the 'X Job Search' tool. The tool enables users to explore job opportunities and facilitates direct recruitment by organisations verified by the platform.
Google introduces Lyria, the music-generating AI model
Google Deepmind, the AI research laboratory owned by Google, has recently introduced Lyria, an advanced music AI generation model. In partnership with YouTube, Google Deepmind's Lyria AI model can generate song tracks consisting of both vocals and instruments.
Meta unveils new AI-powered creative tools for Facebook and Instagram
Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg has recently announced two new AI-powered creative tools for Facebook and Instagram users. Built on Emu, Meta's foundational model for image generation, these two tools - Emu Edit and Emu Video - provide users with new ways to edit photos and generate videos using text prompts.
4 websites to track cyclone Midhili
As Cyclone Midhili brews in the Bay of Bengal, threatening the coastal regions of Bangladesh, it's essential to stay informed and prepared. With technology playing an ever-increasing role in weather forecasting and information dissemination, here are four websites that provide real-time tracking and information on the storm's progress:
Samsung develops ChatGPT like AI tool that generates texts, images
Samsung has unveiled its inaugural generative AI model, Samsung Gauss, at the Samsung AI Forum 2023. Developed by Samsung Research, the company's research arm, this AI model is poised to make a substantial impact in the field of artificial intelligence. Samsung Gauss comprises three distinct tools—Samsung Gauss Language, Samsung Gauss Code, and Samsung Gauss Image—each designed for specific applications.
What to do if your Facebook account is hacked?
In case you feel someone else has gained access to your Facebook account, don't panic! There are several steps you can take to recover your account and get it back. Let's take a look at some of the most important things you should consider doing just in case you think your Facebook account has been compromised in any way.
GADGETS
Press Release / OPPO launches A18 in Bangladesh
OPPO has recently released its latest flagship device, OPPO A18, in Bangladesh.
What is a virtual RAM? Here's the truth
Virtual RAM, or swap space, is part of a device's storage acting as backup memory when the physical RAM is full. It allows devices to run smoothly under heavy use. For instance, a device with 4GB RAM and 64GB storage might allocate 2GB as virtual RAM, effectively making it 6GB RAM but reducing storage to 62GB.
Infinix Smart 8 now available in Bangladesh
Infinix has recently launched their latest budget smartphone, Infinix Smart 8, in Bangladesh. The smartphone comes with a 6.6-inch HD+ display with 720x1612 pixels, a 90 Hz refresh rate, a 180 Hz touch sampling rate, and a 5,000 mAh battery.
Infinix unveils two new laptops in Bangladesh
Infinix, the reputed smartphone company, has recently unveiled two new laptops in their lineup of products: Infinix INBOOK X2 and Infinix INBOOK Y2 Plus. The company introduced both laptops to the public in the recently hosted City IT Mega Fair 2023.
Hands-on review / Realme GT5 240W: The ultra-fast charging powerhouse
Realme GT5 240W is undoubtedly a powerful phone, which ticks a lot of the right boxes when it comes to modern flagships. Let's take a look at how this phone - deemed one of the fastest charging phones in the market right now - feels to try out.
Apple unveils new M3 chips, upgraded iMac, faster MacBooks
Apple's Scary Fast event on Tuesday unveiled some of the tech giant's most awaited innovations for 2023, with the MacBook Pro and iMac taking centre stage. Here's a quick roundup of the biggest announcements from today's event.
GUIDES
Degree or coding skills not a must to get hired by Apple: Tim Cook
In a recent interview, Tim Cook provided insights into the qualities he deems essential for prospective employees. Beyond the conventional requirements of degrees and coding skills, Cook emphasised the significance of collaboration, inquisitiveness, and creativity. Looking to get into Apple? You would do well to cultivate these traits.
Things you need to know before buying Intel motherboards
When it comes to building or upgrading your PC, the motherboard you choose plays a pivotal role in determining your system's performance and capabilities. Whether you're eyeing a 14th Gen, 13th Gen, or 12th Gen Intel CPU, these are some of the key things you need to know before buying an Intel motherboard for your PC.
How to choose the right Intel motherboard for your PC
Selecting the right motherboard is crucial for optimising Intel CPU performance. Depending on your needs, whether you're focused on gaming, content creation, or cost efficiency, there's a motherboard out there that perfectly suits your requirements. Read on to find out about our recommendations of motherboards for 14th-gen Intel processors as well as their compatibility with 13th-gen unlocked CPUs.
Cybersecurity awareness month: A spotlight on emerging threats and strategies
In the face of sophisticated cyber threats like phishing, ransomware, supply chain attacks, and complex attacks that are often targeted and live, organisations can no longer afford to handle cybersecurity without the support of a trusted vendor.
Here's how you can make audio/video calls on X, formerly Twitter
X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter, has officially begun rolling out their brand-new audio and video calling feature. As per X, the feature is currently available on iOS but is being planned to be released on Android soon. Find out how you can use this new feature.
How to avoid 'Your account has been reported' Facebook scam
One malicious phishing scam that has recently become quite common is the 'Violations detected on your page' or 'Your account has been reported' fake message on Facebook, which deceives users into giving away their personal information. Here is a quick guide on what this scam is and how you can avoid it.
How to speed up your old computer
For desktops and laptops, not maintaining proper everyday care can significantly fasten their ageing process. However, even if your old computer is feeling sluggish and unresponsive, there are a few tweaks and upgrades you could do to optimise its speed and make it run smoother.
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.
Sam Altman vs. OpenAI: what happened so far
In case you haven't been following the recent developments surrounding OpenAI and its co-founder Sam Altman, here's a timeline of the events that have happened thus far.
OpenAI announces Sam Altman to return as CEO
OpenAI announced on Tuesday its co-founder Sam Altman will return as CEO, days after he was fired by the board
Bangladesh govt. forms 'National Cyber Security Agency'
The government has formed the new 'National Cyber Security Agency' which will replace the previous 'Digital Security Agency', according to an official gazette published on November 17, 2023. The Cyber Security Agency will be responsible for monitoring online communication and countering cyber crimes.
OpenAI investors are now considering suing the board
A faction of investors in OpenAI, the parent company of the renowned ChatGPT, are now reportedly considering legal steps against the company's board. This development comes after the board's decision to remove CEO Sam Altman, a choice that has led to upheaval within the organisation, according to a report by Reuters.
OpenAI's 3rd CEO in 4 days: Who is Emmett Shear?
In a surprising turn of events, OpenAI, the parent company of ChatGPT and DALL-E, has appointed Emmett Shear as its interim CEO, marking the third leadership change in just four days. The decision comes after the sudden removal of former CEO Sam Altman, sending shockwaves through the tech industry.
BTRC to audit Teletalk for the first time
Following a recent policy decision, the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) has taken the initiative to conduct a comprehensive audit of Teletalk, the state-owned telecom company, for the first time.
With X's Musk under fire, Biden joins rival Threads
US President Joe Biden on Monday joined Threads, Meta's social media rival to Elon Musk's X, just days after the White House blasted the tech baron for pushing anti-Semitism
OpenAI employees revolt; threaten to quit unless board resigns
Following the recent firing of Sam Altman, ex-CEO of OpenAI, the staff of the AI startup has issued a collective ultimatum, expressing their intent to resign unless the board steps down, according to a letter obtained by Reuters.
Real-time air quality tracking launched across Bangladesh
The government has recently launched a 'real-time air quality index' program, which will provide up-to-the-minute information on the air quality across the country. The initiative, led by the Department of Environment, aims to inform the public about the health implications of varying pollution levels while fostering proactive measures to control and mitigate air pollution.
Luna Shamsuddoha receives posthumous 'Meritorious Achievement Award'
Luna Shamsuddoha, a renowned Bangladeshi IT entrepreneur, was posthumously honoured with the Meritorious Achievement Award by the International Center for Parliamentary Studies (ICPS) and the National Electoral Commission of Portugal. The recognition at this year's International Electoral Awards Ceremony highlighted Shamsuddoha's role in developing the Bangladeshi voter registration software with photograph and fingerprint support.
