Zong Still Rallying For Warid, Hires Consultant Firm to Assist in Bidding

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEv1FlnWPKLz3MSa79xsE-BQaJZpQN0p1lsJxjOjr4muXQapNyzyUtpSk36QH8jtcc81A2HWmnJFzX9lbeabZhAR4PzpEnye1jjdmC3U9LpYtdXy7XaNuxOYRxGh3WtWEAXYW4fQPVJR0/s1600/Zong_Warid.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEv1FlnWPKLz3MSa79xsE-BQaJZpQN0p1lsJxjOjr4muXQapNyzyUtpSk36QH8jtcc81A2HWmnJFzX9lbeabZhAR4PzpEnye1jjdmC3U9LpYtdXy7XaNuxOYRxGh3WtWEAXYW4fQPVJR0/s1600/Zong_Warid.jpg" width="400" /></a></div> Zong, having denied the chances of buying Warid Telecom earlier this year, is now again running to bid for the Dhabi Group’s telecom arm in Pakistan for a speculated value of around USD 1 billion, we have confirmed with sources.<br /> For the purpose, Zong has hired MAS ClearSight to evaluate the deal and assist the firm during the buyout process, told us the sources.<br /> Zong, with around 22 million subscribers, is currently number four operator in Pakistan. If deal goes through successfully then by adding Warid’s 12 million subscribers will get Zong to second position in the market with 34 million subscribers, just 2 million short of Mobilink.<br /> Confirming Zong’s intentions, Sikandar Naqi, Chief Public Relation Officer of Zong, confirmed RexHacker that his group is seriously looking into Warid. “We already have been given a mandate to go forward with the bid and we are anxiously waiting to see how it turns out”, told Mr. Naqi in an email communication with RexHacker.<br /> Other than Zong, UAE based Etisalat and Russia’s VimpelCom – the parent group of Mobilink – are hot contenders for the Warid buyout.<br /> China Mobile is reported to have over USD 70 billion cash in hand. Group is long trying to expand its international business in Pakistan and other regional markets.<br /> Buying Warid can be a good idea for China Mobile, especially when new customer acquisitions have become harder, thanks to tighter regulatory measures for selling new SIMs and increased tele-density.<br /> Conditions for new sales are going to get only harder after proposed implementation of Biometric verification system later this year.<br /> In such situations, 12 million customers against USD 1 billion looks a lucrative deal when 3G is just round the corner to boost ARPUs by many folds.<br /> Pakistani operators are set to divert their focus from voice to data after 3G deployments. With around 30 million internet users in the country, over half of them connect to the web via mobile phones through sluggish GPRS and EDGE services.<br /> In a country like Pakistan, where internet reach is notably limited, a vast majority ends up with mobile internet as their only option for connecting to the internet. With tremendous amount of mobile phone penetration, the proposition for higher revenues through high-speed mobile internet is only going to get better after 3G.<br /> Analysts are predicting cellular ARPUs to increase by 300 to 400 percent during post 3G era with hefty internet offerings along with primary voice services. Any operator with more customers during 2G networks means more revenues after getting 3G networks or if put in other words higher customer base means better chances of return on pre-3G customer acquisition investments.<br /> However, Zong’s probable acquisition of Warid is going to increase company’s ARPU even before 3G. Along with a boost to ARPUs, the deal – if went successful – will bring good postpaid user base as well, which not has been Zong’s forte till now<b>.</b><br /> Not to mention, Warid Telecom is largely known for loyal customer base and strong network infrastructure, though with limited coverage.<br /> Additionally, with the Warid buyout, Zong will become an LDI license holder – without investing extra for a fresh licence – something that Zong has been trying for years.</div>

Zong Still Rallying For Warid, Hires Consultant Firm to Assist in Bidding

Zong, having denied the chances of buying Warid Telecom earlier this year, is now again running to bid for the Dhabi Group’s telecom arm...

Read more »

Schedule for the Rollout of Biometric System Finalized

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidyPicZJXbJ9yVnEz3WPsFa_661mjyu6vgTFuL22PAfg5UrnWcCS6acLSFKTYPJDEmE-P07xDzKrf6SLXPNjEk7Z_UVo_ZrS3-tS7WrxLv0TkTTTs1WhEJAGrnjPqcVsR_NjtMTZAh_tQ/s1600/biometric_verification.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidyPicZJXbJ9yVnEz3WPsFa_661mjyu6vgTFuL22PAfg5UrnWcCS6acLSFKTYPJDEmE-P07xDzKrf6SLXPNjEk7Z_UVo_ZrS3-tS7WrxLv0TkTTTs1WhEJAGrnjPqcVsR_NjtMTZAh_tQ/s1600/biometric_verification.jpg" /></a></div> Cellular operators along with Ministry of IT and Telecom, PTA, NADRA and Interior Ministry have finalized the plan and schedule for the implementation of biometric verification system, we have confirmed with sources.<br /> As per the information we have got, the high-ups of cellular companies have agreed to deploy the biometric verification system in the country.<br /> Cellular companies along with NADRA, PTA and other relevant ministry will work out the modalities, procedures, NADRA charges per SIM verification and SOPs for biometric verification system till First week of October 2013.<br /> A source who is directly familiar with the matter confirmed that cellular companies will start deploying biometric verification system during second week of October 2013.<br /> Rollout of biometric verification system will start with company owned customer service centres of all five cellular operators in the country. <br /> After customer service centres, biometric verification system will be rolled out with a deadline of August 31st, 2014 for the completion of the deployment at around 75,000 outlets throughout the country. <br /> Sources further revealed that 15,000 outlets are going to be common for all mobile operators, i.e. non-exclusive retailers who sell SIMs of multiple companies. Biometric devices – that are going to cost around 35,000 per unit – on these 15,000 common outlets is going to be funded by USF after BoD approvals.<br /> Cellular companies are going to invest over Rs. 2 billion on the deployment of biometric verification system. <br /> After this new system in place, all sales will be made after authenticating thumb impressions of purchaser with NDARA’s data to be sure that the person who is buying the SIM is indeed the CNIC card holder that he/she is displaying at the time of purchase.<br /> This whole effort is being made to eliminate the chances of unregistered SIMs.</div>

Schedule for the Rollout of Biometric System Finalized

Cellular operators along with Ministry of IT and Telecom, PTA, NADRA and Interior Ministry have finalized the plan and schedule for the ...

Read more »

Nokia to Offer Insurance Plans for Mobile Phone Users in Pakistan

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUMX1CyJxsuvzhPdJZAyr4DWD6Lj-pW0kQgOOsWamH2v_0H9C1xwh7I3RhJ1-PYJ2T1fEU0o0NUywZgIYCM5ax6DRnpWvawYZSmZF8K73l7UKeQVdT8Ry9-u8C5Z7x9V8_3j09aHs0sKo/s1600/Nokia-Care-Pak-Kuwait-Takaful-English-Picture.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUMX1CyJxsuvzhPdJZAyr4DWD6Lj-pW0kQgOOsWamH2v_0H9C1xwh7I3RhJ1-PYJ2T1fEU0o0NUywZgIYCM5ax6DRnpWvawYZSmZF8K73l7UKeQVdT8Ry9-u8C5Z7x9V8_3j09aHs0sKo/s1600/Nokia-Care-Pak-Kuwait-Takaful-English-Picture.jpg" /></a></div> Nokia Care and Pak-Kuwait Takaful Company Limited (PKTCL) have joined hands to introduce mobile phone insurance for Nokia Customers in Pakistan. <br /> This Takaful policy focuses on accidental damage and loss of phone due to snatch on armed-hold up. <br /> Mr. Jahanzaib Sarfaraz, Director of Global Customer Care (GCC), representing Nokia Care commented, “We are taking a step forward by considering the security conditions of the country to provide a better and more reliable mobility experience to our customers, Nokia Care continues to provide greater care to its valued customers by offering reliable mobile phone Takaful (insurance) policy. <br /> He added this newly introduced policy is an attempt to expand on the already available spectrum of Nokia Care service and will give our customers the added sense of security to get a new mobile phone in case of accidental damage or loss.” <br /> Moreover, Mr. Imtiaz Bhatti, Managing Director & CEO of Pak-Kuwait Takaful co Ltd, said, “We are proud to have joined hands with Nokia Care, as it is one of the most preferred mobile phone brands in Pakistan. This new agreement will help us to extend our mobile phone Takaful policy to a large number of Nokia customers in Pakistan.” <br /> This policy can be availed by all Nokia customers via Nokia Care network from 3^rd September, 2013 onwards.</div>

Nokia to Offer Insurance Plans for Mobile Phone Users in Pakistan

Nokia Care and Pak-Kuwait Takaful Company Limited (PKTCL) have joined hands to introduce mobile phone insurance for Nokia Customers in ...

Read more »

LG to Offer Free Service and Discount on Spare Parts in Pakistan

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOrjGxju69FduIiavxB0VHu1WVulTplLbEgvx0BDu_1zch6Fkd8cJIupeczq9_aXCxNQGt3w3ig2hUeHumWaTjvD624CtHHAoRR1dhb7Swchqsl8jRldBnnv6MFAgn3AMNzbqLNNhD274/s1600/LG_006.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOrjGxju69FduIiavxB0VHu1WVulTplLbEgvx0BDu_1zch6Fkd8cJIupeczq9_aXCxNQGt3w3ig2hUeHumWaTjvD624CtHHAoRR1dhb7Swchqsl8jRldBnnv6MFAgn3AMNzbqLNNhD274/s1600/LG_006.jpg" /></a></div> LG Electronics (LG) has launched a unique customer-friendly service program in Pakistan to provide technical assistance across LG products to its customers. <br /> The service will be routed through LG’s extensive network of 62 authorized service centers across Pakistan with 15 more to be joining the network soon. <br /> As per program, LG Electronics will provide free service to LG products (Air Conditioners, Refrigerators, Washing Machines, Microwave Ovens and Flat Panel Display) which will include both Out of Warranty and In Warranty LG products. <br /> The unique program also offers 30% special discount on spare part and free labor which will be conducted in three major cities Karachi, Lahore & Rawalpindi. <br /> Recently, LG reinforced its commitment towards providing reliable products to its customers by providing an extended 10 years Compressor warranty of Refrigerators and Direct Drive Motors of Washing Machine. <br /> “LG has always put the needs of its customers at the forefront, from producing the latest innovative technology to customer service,” said Mr. Michael Ha, Director, LG Electronics Pakistan. <br /> “This was the motivation behind developing our network of service centers across Pakistan as an extension to the differentiated customer-oriented services LG provides.” “With this guarantee, consumers can purchase our world-class Refrigerators and Washing Machines with confidence, knowing they have an appliance which will last long and is protected by a 10 year warranty.” He further added. <br /> To ensure the high level of customer-service is maintained, LG have selected the technicians with the highest skill-set to operate during the program. As with the policy of LG service practices, all LG technicians will continuously be reviewed to safeguard the high-level of customer-service is maintained across all markets.</div>

LG to Offer Free Service and Discount on Spare Parts in Pakistan

LG Electronics (LG) has launched a unique customer-friendly service program in Pakistan to provide technical assistance across LG produc...

Read more »

BlackBerry Announces the Z30 Smartphone

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-N8MPVjN6OIiRFQgP2APHQaW-5VeFAlfNz7MT4VlpQkYZ_cnrszDM3rMthro06EaUKm81AB6vE48cqcTklFehtsLZpyBMtllEBYpEfkUNsqMHjYRU3k8q7aZ5WXg45eK2jFlKkMZFGaM/s1600/blackberry-z30-970x0.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-N8MPVjN6OIiRFQgP2APHQaW-5VeFAlfNz7MT4VlpQkYZ_cnrszDM3rMthro06EaUKm81AB6vE48cqcTklFehtsLZpyBMtllEBYpEfkUNsqMHjYRU3k8q7aZ5WXg45eK2jFlKkMZFGaM/s1600/blackberry-z30-970x0.jpg" /></a></div> While the BB10 OS was meant to turn the smartphone battle into a four-horse race, the response of the phones running it so far has been lukewarm. Lack of quality apps and high price have plagued the sales of the OS and as the market has become more and more saturated with time, there’s really not that much of a need for another mobile OS.<br /> Still, the company has taken to the challenge by announcing its 4th smartphone running BB10 called the Z30. The smartphone isn’t radically different from the Z10 and comes with a larger display and SnapDragon S4 Pro processor.<br /> The design of the phone is based on the Z10 and comes with no hardware buttons at the front. The 5 inch 720p display takes up a large part of it with the speaker, front 2 mp HD camera and a notification LED at the top. The display is a Super AMOLED panel.<br /> The processor inside is of Qualcomm SnapDragon S4 Pro variety, clocked at 1.7Ghz. It’s followed by 2 GB of RAM, Adreno 320 GPU and 16 GB of storage, which also happens to be expandable this time.<br /> The camera at the back is the same 8 megapixel unit with LED Flash and 1080p Full HD video. For connectivity, Bluetooth 4.0, microUSB 2.0, NFC, dual-band Wi-Fi and LTE are used.<br /> There are some minor changes compared to the previous smartphones though. Running OS version 10.2, it comes with BB Priority Hub which is BlackBerry’s take on Gmail’s Priority Inbox and this time, the BB10 messages can be sent without having to close the current running app. Incoming messages can be seen directly from the lockscreen, while support for Wi-Fi Direct and multiple alarms is also home.<br /> The 10.2 update is coming to the Q10 and Z10 smartphones in October.<br /> Here are the full specs of the BlackBerry Z30:<br /> <ul> <li>BlackBerry 10.2 OS running</li> <li>5 inch 720p display with 1280 x 720 resolution</li> <li>9.4mm thick</li> <li>1.7Ghz Qualcomm SnapDragon S4 Pro, Adreno 320</li> <li>2 GB RAM with 16GB expandable storage</li> <li>8 megapixel back-camera with LED Flash, f2.2 aperture and 1080p Full HD video recording</li> <li>2 megapixel HD front-camera</li> <li>Bluetooth 4.0, microUSB 2.0, NFC, dual-band Wi-Fi, LTE</li> <li>2880 mAh battery</li> </ul> The phone is expected to hit the markets in the coming few weeks. Pricing is unknown as of now.</div>

BlackBerry Announces the Z30 Smartphone

While the BB10 OS was meant to turn the smartphone battle into a four-horse race, the response of the phones running it so far has been...

Read more »

Google's Latest Venture Aims to Extend Human Life

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihZC8GxDQm8Z163f7pnIPc2TRljPTFzhOjYQynwRRyIOWZVP-3k9xzS64izwjW52zLvwLTf3lVCLbShKbRe8ZvK1E1ICX7g7DX9Rq_gVSFPSPWsGAgo5GZD2Qcyqv4hAotLAnEby0YwjQ/s1600/Google_thumb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihZC8GxDQm8Z163f7pnIPc2TRljPTFzhOjYQynwRRyIOWZVP-3k9xzS64izwjW52zLvwLTf3lVCLbShKbRe8ZvK1E1ICX7g7DX9Rq_gVSFPSPWsGAgo5GZD2Qcyqv4hAotLAnEby0YwjQ/s1600/Google_thumb.jpg" /></a></div> Google is known for setting out to pursue crazy goals and then achieving them. The latest one is not much different either.<br /> The new company formed by the internet greats called Calico will work out on how to extend our lives and research more on our well-being. It will be headed by current Apple Chairman Arthur D. Levinson and marks the first time in years that the two companies have collaborated on a single project.<br /> “I’ve devoted much of my life to science and technology, with the goal of improving human health,” Art said. “Larry’s focus on outsized improvements has inspired me, and I’m tremendously excited about what’s next.”<br /> Tim Cook and Larry Page had some nice feelings to share too:<br /> “For too many of our friends and family, life has been cut short or the quality of their life is too often lacking. Art is one of the crazy ones who thinks it doesn’t have to be this way. There is no one better suited to lead this mission and I am excited to see the results.” Tim Cook<br /> “Illness and aging affect all our families. With some longer term, moonshot thinking around healthcare and biotechnology, I believe we can improve millions of lives. It’s impossible to imagine anyone better than Art—one of the leading scientists, entrepreneurs and CEOs of our generation—to take this new venture forward.” Larry Page<br /> The company will aim to tackle aging, cancer and other diseases. Results aren’t expected anytime soon though but you’ll have to keep an eye on their progress.<br /> Calico isn’t Google’s first venture that goes off company’s internet roots. The list is actually quite long and includes interesting works like self-driving cars, talking shoes and of course, the Glass.</div>

Google's Latest Venture Aims to Extend Human Life

Google is known for setting out to pursue crazy goals and then achieving them. The latest one is not much different either. The new comp...

Read more »