Including four ‘Best of Innovation’ winners, the awards serve as recognition of Samsung’s ingenuity in the areas of AI, design and user experience

Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. has announced that its newest products and services have been recognised by the prestigious CES® 2025 Innovation Awards, including four “Best of Innovation” winners, from the Consumer Technology Association (CTA)®. These recognitions come two months ahead of CES® 2025 — the world’s largest and most influential technology event — and they highlight Samsung’s relentless commitment to pushing boundaries in consumer technology. With pioneering advancements in AI, sustainable design and inclusive user experiences, Samsung continues to set the standard for the entire industry.

The CES Innovation Awards programme is an annual competition that honours outstanding design and engineering in consumer technology, recognising top innovations across multiple categories and distinguishing the highest-rated in each field. For Samsung, these awards also underscore the company’s broader vision for AI-enabled connectivity, customisation, and convenience across its ecosystem of powerful smart devices — from smartphones and tablets, to home appliances, TVs, wearables, software, services, and more — as well as semiconductor solutions which are unlocking limitless possibilities for the future.

In particular, the Samsung Visual Display Business earned 16 innovation awards with three Best of Innovation winners. This includes honours for several Samsung screens, such as the latest flagship OLED TV. Plus, Samsung received recognition for outstanding AI features designed to make your day simpler, more dynamic and more connected than ever before. The Digital Appliances (DA) Business was also recognised for its home-centred innovation, winning multiple awards for products that elevate the user experience by comprehensively boosting convenience. 

Attendees of CES® 2025 in Las Vegas from Jan. 7-10 will be able to see Samsung’s full line-up of AI-powered smart products, which have been reimagined to shape a more sustainable and accessible world, bridging the best of tech and lifestyle.

Galaxy Buds3 Pro Takes Home Best of Innovation Award for Headphones & Personal Audio

The Galaxy Buds3 Pro was named the Best of Innovation winner in Headphones & Personal Audio for its premium sound, adaptive noise control, and sleek appearance. As a whole, the Galaxy Buds3 series was designed to deliver premium audio experiences with a new computational approach while still ensuring a comfortable fit, and it incorporates Galaxy AI, allowing users to listen to lectures or speeches translated directly through their Galaxy Buds removing language and communication barriers — all without the need for a screen.

Highlighted CES 2025 Innovation Award Honourees 

Galaxy AI for Imaging – Samsung is integrating AI across all its connected technologies, starting with Galaxy AI on mobile devices to deliver real and innovative benefits to users such as powerful mobile editing and creativity tools. For example, ProVisual Engine, a comprehensive suite of AI-powered tools, transforms the way users capture and edit content, allowing them to instantly and effortlessly refine a photo with automatic recommendations like Edit Suggestion or Generative Edit. These capabilities showcase Samsung’s focus on creating inclusive and meaningful experiences for people.

Galaxy Z Fold6 for Gaming & eSports – The Galaxy Z Fold6, the slimmest, lightest, and most durable Galaxy Z series foldable ever, is optimised for portability while bringing powerful performance thanks to the most advanced Snapdragon mobile processor and an upgraded cooling system. It also offers a range of Galaxy AI-powered features and tools for communication, and creativity that maximise the benefits of the large screen and significantly enhance productivity.

Galaxy Tab S10 Series for Computer Hardware & Components – This is Samsung’s first tablet series to be purposefully built for AI. The premium hardware includes 14.6-inch and 12.4-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X displays — the ideal canvas for the intuitive S Pen bundled with both models. Performance upgrades for the Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra include an 18% increase for the CPU, a 28% increase for the GPU, and a 14% increase for the NPU compared to the Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra. This improved processing power enables faster and more responsive AI features. These features are now easily accessible with written prompts using the new Galaxy AI Key on compatible Book Cover Keyboards, which can be customised to open the user’s AI assistant of choice.

Galaxy Watch7 for Fashion Tech – The Galaxy Watch7 is designed to boost everyday wellness by offering personalised workouts and preventative health monitoring features. Additionally, Galaxy Watch7 allows users to express their style with an array of stylish watch bands and various watch face options.

10.7Gbps LPDDR5X DRAM for Mobile Devices, Accessories & Apps – Samsung has developed the industry’s first 12nm-class LPDDR5X DRAM supporting the industry’s fastest speed of up to 10.7 gigabits-per-second (Gbps). With its high performance and industry’s smallest chip size, the LPDDR5X is optimised for next-generation on-device AI applications.

Exynos W1000 for Fashion Tech – Designed for smartwatches and wearables, the Exynos W1000 processor runs demanding applications smoothly and delivers vivid 3D graphics with its dedicated GPU. It enhances user experience with faster app loading and an always-on display that uses minimal battery power.

All Lenses on Prism (ALoP) for Imaging – Samsung’s All Lenses on Prism (ALoP) is a next-generation telephoto camera solution that places lenses directly on the prism, enhancing brightness and reducing noise. This innovative design also reduces the camera bump, allowing for a sleeker, more aesthetic design.

About Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.

Samsung inspires the world and shapes the future with transformative ideas and technologies. The company is redefining the worlds of TVs, smartphones, wearable devices, tablets, home appliances, network systems, and memory, system LSI, foundry and LED solutions, and delivering a seamless connected experience through its SmartThings ecosystem and open collaboration with partners. For the latest news, please visit the Samsung Newsroom at news.samsung.com/za

The dangers of smoking are well-documented and clear. On average, a long-term regular smoker loses about ten years of their life, with only half living beyond 70 compared to 80% of non-smokers^1,2. Smoking not only threatens mortality but also significantly elevates the risk of debilitating conditions such as strokes, angina, emphysema, and high blood pressure¹.

Yet, despite the overwhelming knowledge of these risks — 92.9% of South African adults acknowledge that smoking causes serious illness³ — 12.7 million adults in the country (29.4%) continue to smoke, as per the 2021 Global Adult Tobacco Survey³. 

Why do so many people continue to endanger their lives like this? The answer lies in understanding the powerful grip of smoking addiction.

Tobacco smoke contains thousands of chemicals, but it’s mainly the nicotine that keeps people hooked¹. Nicotine rapidly reaches the brain, delivering a quick ‘hit’ that makes smoking so addictive. While nicotine itself has a tolerable profile, the other components of cigarette smoke, such as carbon monoxide and tar, are responsible for the severe health risks¹.

These facts now well established, nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) offers a beacon of hope¹. NRT offers a method to combat nicotine addiction without the harmful chemicals found in cigarettes¹. By providing a controlled amount of nicotine, NRT reduces withdrawal symptoms and helps manage cravings, significantly increasing the chances of quitting cigarettes¹.

Over 100 placebo-controlled trials support the efficacy of NRT, showing it can double a smoker’s chances of quitting for 6–12 months⁴. Additional studies have shown that using NRT can increase the chances of quitting by about 50% to 60%⁵. This substantial evidence underlines the importance of NRT in smoking cessation strategies.

NRT comes in various forms, including gums, patch, nasal spray, inhalator and tablets⁵. Brands like Kenvue’s Nicorette, have become synonymous with quit-smoking aids, in conjunction with behavioural therapy. Nicotine gum, for instance, is particularly popular due to its effectiveness⁶.. To use Nicorette gum effectively, one should chew it slowly until a tingling sensation is felt, then place it between the cheek and gums⁷. This process helps manage the urge to smoke by providing a steady release of nicotine, easing the withdrawal process⁸.

Basic health education can also influence smoking habits⁹. A 10-year prospective intervention study conducted in India, for instance, saw 36,000 tobacco users initially surveyed for oral cancer and pre-cancer signs and then examined annually over the decade⁹. During each check-up, they received health education about the effects of their tobacco use⁹. By the end of the study, 11% of men and 37% of women had stopped using tobacco, compared to just 2% and 10%, respectively, in the control group⁹.

Research shows that all licensed forms of NRT improves the ability to successfully quit smoking⁵. While some smokers may experience mild to moderate side effects¹⁰, research consistently shows that NRT has a good tolerability profile and greatly improves the chances of quitting. By delivering nicotine in a controlled and safer manner, NRT allows smokers to gradually wean off their dependence, making the transition away from smoking more manageable¹⁰.

NRT represents a scientifically-backed, effective means to combat the nicotine addiction that keeps smokers smoking. As we continue to innovate and expand access to these therapies, brands like Kenvue Nicorette and other smoking cessation treatment will remain vital tools in the global effort to reduce smoking rates and improve public health. Quitting smoking is undeniably a difficult thing to do, but with the right tools and support, it’s an achievable and life-saving goal.

References:

1. Dawkins, L. Why is it so hard to quit smoking? Thepsychologist.co.uk. [updated May 2013]. Available from: www.thepsychologist.org.uk
2. Doll, R., Peto, R., Boreham J. et al. (2004). Mortality in relation to smoking: 50 years’ observation on male British doctors. British Medical Journal, 328, 1519–1533.
3. Global Adult Tobacco Survey South Africa Fact Sheet. Department of Health [updated April 2022]. Available from: health.gov.za
4. Silagy, C., Lancaster, T. & Stead, L. et al. (2005). Nicotine replacement therapy for smoking cessation. The Cochrane Library, Issue 1. Chichester: Wiley
5. Hartmann-Boyce, J. et al. (2018). Nicotine replacement therapy versus control for smoking cessation (review). Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. Issue 5 
6. Fagerström KO, Schneider NG, Lunell E. Effectiveness of nicotine patch and nicotine gum as individual versus combined treatments for tobacco withdrawal symptoms. Psychopharmacology (Berl). 1993;111(3):271-7. doi: 10.1007/BF02244941. PMID: 7870963. 
7. Nicorette Gum 2 & 4 mg package insert. South Africa: Johnson & Johnson (Pty) Ltd; 2024
8. WHO. Helping people to quit tobacco. A manual for Doctors and Dentists. Available from: www.who.int
9. CDC. How to use Nicotine Gum. [Reviewed September 2023]. Available from: cdc.gov
10. Shellack, N., & Bronkhorst, E. (2014). Smoking Cessation. South African Family Practice. 57(1)

The Road Accident Fund (RAF) is aware of a trend where people throw themselves against moving vehicles, to enable themselves to claim from the Fund. Apparently, such people wait for the vehicles to slow down enough that they don’t get killed on impact before throwing themselves. This behaviour is dangerous and adds unnecessary pressure on the Fund which must assess and investigate claims of rightful claimants efficiently. 

The RAF does not compensate someone who intentionally causes a motor vehicle accident, even if this results in serious injuries. In the event of death, the RAF further does not compensate beneficiaries of those who are the authors of their own misfortune. The RAF Act requires that the respective degrees of fault, blame or negligence, amongst other things, must be determined upon receiving a claim. We acknowledge road users may be faced with socio-economic challenges. However, road safety and road crash prevention efforts must remain a priority to all as they contribute towards the reduction of accidents. 

A total of 49 631 claims were declined from 2021/2022 to 2023/24. The reasons for this include: cases where a claimant was solely responsible for causing the road crash; claims where the claimant died before finalisation of the claim; where injuries sustained were so minor that no claim for damages arose; and claims that were lodged fraudulently. 

Over the last five years, South Africa recorded a total of 7,987 road fatalities during the festive season. Festive season road crash statistics cover a 42-day period, from 01 December to 11 January each year. A total of 84% of these fatal road crashes resulted from human conduct. Pedestrians and passengers were the most affected road users at 40% and 33% respectively, followed by drivers (26%) and cyclists (1%).

Road users are urged to also remember that the Fund does not compensate for the death itself but only pays for the actual costs to cremate the deceased or bury them in a grave. 

The RAF values all road users and understands that in the unfortunate event of death in a road crash due to poor human behaviour, the experience can be a devastating one for the family. We want to contribute to making your holiday and travel experiences more peaceful and meaningful by highlighting the following road safety tips: 

• Wear bright coloured clothes when walking after sunset. 
• Don’t run when crossing the road. Be alert and walk. 
• Cross the road only where it is safe to do so. 
• Do not drink and drive.
• Do not text and drive. 
• Make sure that you inflate your tyres to the correct tyre pressure recommendation. 
• Keep a safe following distance.
• Do not drive or walk on the road unsupervised if you are not feeling well.

In the unfortunate event of being involved in a motor vehicle accident, the RAF Contact Centre is reachable on 087 820 1 111 from Monday to Friday, 07h45 to 16h00.  Claimants may also contact the RAF’s Contact Centre on the WhatsApp number 071 605 4707, via SMS on 44930, or by email on contactcentre@raf.co.za. In addition, the RAF is reachable through its offices countrywide, details of which are available on its website on www.raf.co.za.

For additional information and updates, follow the RAF on social media: ‎@RAF_SA or Facebook @Road Accident Fund

Alex, a 31-year-old from Australia, had been working as a delivery driver for a local logistics company. Despite working long hours and navigating busy city traffic daily, Alex’s income barely covered his bills. He felt stuck, with little opportunity to improve his financial situation. However, Alex always had a keen interest in technology and finance, and he spent his spare time researching new opportunities in these fields.I went to their company for a field trip in 2019 and was impressed by its large scale, good service attitude, and delicious coffee. It was great.

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Why Choose KSD Miner? 

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The ceremony, held on 4 December 2024 at the Sandton Convention Centre, honoured women who have made remarkable contributions to their industries, communities, and beyond.

Congratulations to the winners:

Top Women Owned Business SMME 2024 Sponsored by Standard Bank

• Faith and Fear (Pty) Ltd
• Highly Commended: KwaNgwane Consulting (Pty) Ltd

Top Women Business in ICT & Ecommerce 2024

• Smollan

Top Women Business in Construction, Infrastructure & Mining 2024 Sponsored by RS South Africa

• Harmony Gold

Top Women in Business Health & Pharmaceutical 2024

• Sanofi

Top Women in Business in Public Services 2024

• uMngeni-uThukela Water

Top Women in Business Corporate Citizenship and Community Impact 2024

• Merchants
• Highly Commended: Nestlé

Top Women in Business in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion 2024 Sponsored by Kia South Africa

• LegalWise
• Highly Commended: Wipro

Top Women in Business in Skills & Youth Development 2024

• UDM International

Top Women Business of the Year 2024 Sponsored by BMW South Africa

• The Institute of Directors of South Africa

Top Women Leader in Professional & Support Services 2024

• Nicqui Galaktiou – Nicqui Galaktiou Inc

Top Women Leader in STEM 2024

• Dr Denisha Jairam-Owthar – Council for Medical Schemes

Top Women Leader in Public Sector 2024

• Durban ICC – Melanie Rambally

Top Women Young Achiever 2024 

• Kumba Iron Ore – Matshidiso Gama
• Highly Commended: Ashleigh Wainstein – Social Places

Top Women Entrepreneur of the Year 2024 Sponsored by Standard Bank

• Lobengula Advertising – Brenda Khumalo
• Highly Commended: Catherine Wijnberg – Fetola Mmoho (Pty) Ltd

Haley Fletcher Top Women Business Leader of the Year 2024 Sponsored by Standard Bank

• Lyra Southern Africa (ICAS) – Navlika Ratangee

Top Women EmpowHER Entrepreneur of the Year 2024 Sponsored by Standard Bank

• Cleopatra Van Ster – Nurseit Primary and Occupational Healthcare Services

Top Women Media Icon of the Year 2024

• Leanne Manas

Top Women in Sport of the Year 2024 Sponsored by Mpumalanga Department of Culture, Sport & Recreation

• Tatjana Smith

Lifetime Achiever of the Year 2024 Sponsored by Standard Bank

• Dr. Tshepo Motsepe, First Lady of the Republic of South Africa

Another thank you to our platinum partner, Standard Bank, and our category sponsors, BMW South Africa, RS South Africa, Kia South Africa and Mpumalanga Department of Culture, Sport & Recreation. As well as our lifestyle partners, Nespresso, Heineken, Estee Lauder, Hada Labo, Elizabeth Arden and Oh My Cake.

For more information on the awards and participating in 2025 please email marketing@topbusinesswomen.co.za.

For more information on the event, visit topbusinesswomen.co.za.

Msaki is a name synonymous with powerful storytelling through music. Known for her evocative lyrics and soulful sound, she has captured the hearts of listeners across South Africa and beyond. But her artistry extends far beyond the realm of music—her latest solo exhibition, KUTHI MANDITHETHE: Of Art & Justice, currently at the Standard Bank Art Gallery, is a testament to her dynamic and evolving creative journey.

While Msaki’s music has earned her recognition, including the prestigious Standard Bank Young Artist Award for Music in 2022, her latest work blends visual art with her deeply rooted commitment to social justice. The exhibition, which opened on 21 November 2024, invites the public into an immersive space that challenges conventional boundaries, blending music, visual art, and performance. It’s a natural extension of her ongoing exploration of themes like resilience, collective healing, and the power of art to drive change.

A multidisciplinary approach to healing and resistance

KUTHI MANDITHETHE: Of Art & Justice is more than just an exhibition—it is a call to action. The name itself, a powerful statement, calls for justice and for voices to be heard. The exhibition weaves together elements of Msaki’s music with painting, drawing, installation, and video, creating a space where art becomes a catalyst for dialogue. Each part of the exhibition unfolds like a chapter in her ongoing narrative, touching on themes of loss, resistance, and healing. It’s a celebration of collective strength and a personal exploration of grief and transformation—an extension of the messages embedded in her music.

This multidisciplinary approach is a key feature of Msaki’s work. KUTHI MANDITHETHE is structured in four parts, each representing different aspects of Msaki’s personal and artistic journey. As viewers engage with her work, they are invited to reflect on the emotional depth of her themes, which have resonated throughout her discography. What emerges is not just an exhibition of art but a powerful statement about the transformative potential of creative expression.

The exhibition coincided with Msaki’s inflection point – her one-night-only performance, Camagu in Symphony — highlighting the artist’s deftness in the visual and sonic realms. The exhibition brings together sound, image, and ritual, drawing audiences into a world where music and visual art collide. It’s a glimpse into Msaki’s creative process, where every element—be it sound, image, or language—serves as an instrument of resistance, healing, and justice.

From music to art: a journey of artistic expansion

Although Msaki is best known as a musician, her ability to translate her ideas across different mediums has been a defining aspect of her work. In the same way that her music tells stories of struggle and triumph, her visual art explores these themes with a new language, creating a deeper, more immersive experience for her audience.

The exhibition also highlights the expansive nature of Msaki’s artistic practice. By embracing visual art, she has pushed beyond the confines of any one medium, using different artistic languages to express her vision. This transformation reflects her belief that art is not limited to one form—it is a dynamic, evolving process that reflects the complexities of the world around us.

Her recognition as the Standard Bank Young Artist for Music in 2022 was a momentous achievement, not just for her music but for her broader artistic vision. The support behind KUTHI MANDITHETHE: Of Art & Justice is a testament to her continued growth and the bank’s commitment to fostering talent that transcends traditional boundaries. It’s about recognizing the potential of artists like Msaki, whose creativity and vision go beyond the expected, embracing new ways of connecting with audiences.

In the world of art, corporate sponsorship is often seen as a transactional relationship, with funding provided in exchange for visibility. However, Standard Bank has long taken a different approach, investing in long-term, sustainable partnerships with artists. For over 40 years, the Standard Bank Group has supported young talent, facilitated artistic expression, and promoted cultural diversity. This commitment allows artists like Msaki to innovate and thrive, knowing they have a dedicated partner in their artistic journeys.

Celebrating a new era of artistic expression

As we approach the end of the year, it’s a perfect time to celebrate the incredible talent that continues to shape South Africa’s creative landscape. Msaki’s journey is a shining example of the power of art to transform lives and ignite conversations about justice, healing, and resilience. Her work invites us to reflect on the role of art in times of societal change, challenging us to think critically about the world around us and our place within it.

At the heart of KUTHI MANDITHETHE: Of Art & Justice is the idea that art should inspire, provoke, and heal. It’s a powerful reminder that artists are not just creators—they are agents of change. And as Msaki continues to expand her artistic practice, her work remains a beacon of hope and possibility, showing that art, in all its forms, has the power to speak truth, shape culture, and inspire future generations.

As 2024 draws to a close, year-end becomes a time when we spend more time with friends and family, getting into the holiday spirit and celebrating the achievements of the year. 

This holiday season, why not make the most of your time with your loved ones by settling in for an unforgettable lineup of festive entertainment with BBC Studios channels, available on DStv and DStv Catch Up? From laugh-out-loud comedies, suspicious mysteries, head-scratching game shows, and a lot of scrumptious food and banter, don’t miss the best entertainment for the whole family on BBC Brit (DStv 120), BBC Lifestyle (DStv 174), BBC UKTV (DStv 114), BBC Earth (DStv 184) and CBeebies (DStv 306).

What’s on this Christmas?

Explore BBC Studios’ hand-picked schedule of brand-new and classic shows to make DStv or DStv Catch Up your ultimate Christmas destination: 

Sunday, 15 December 2024

20:00 – Kirstie’s Handmade Christmas: Special: 2023 

BBC Lifestyle, DStv Channel 174

British presenter, Kirstie Allsopp provides a flurry of jovial festive fun – with enough competitions, makes, decorations, gifts, food and drink to inspire every kind of crafter. 

Monday, 16 December 2024

20:00 – The Great Pottery Throw Down Special: Christmas 2023 

BBC Lifestyle, DStv Channel 174

Four celebs roll up their sleeves and take on two yuletide challenges set by judges Keith Brymer Jones and Rich Miller. 

Tuesday, 17 December 2024

19:00 – Nigella’s Amsterdam Christmas 

BBC Lifestyle, DStv Channel 174

With family ties to Amsterdam, celebrity cook Nigella Lawson returns for a special Christmas treat when she travels to the Venice of the North to enjoy the festive season. Nigella visits her favourite places, picks up special ingredients for her festive feasting and makes traditional Dutch dishes.

Saturday, 21 December 2024

19:00 – The Great British Bake Off: Christmas Specials 2022 

BBC Lifestyle, DStv Channel 174

Famous faces from The Great British Bake Off history compete for the Christmas Star Baker title.

21:00 – Christmas in New York: Inside the Plaza 

BBC Lifestyle, DStv Channel 174

An access-all-areas look at how Christmas comes to life at one of the most famous hotels in the world, the iconic Plaza Hotel in New York, at their busiest time of the year where the guests expect a five-star service like no other.

Christmas Eve (Tuesday, 24 December 2024)

19:00 – Would I Lie to You? Season 11 Christmas Special

BBC Brit, DStv Channel 120

Enjoy a hilarious evening of outrageous truths and unbelievable lies with this classic quiz show, hosted by Welsh actor and comedian, Rob Brydon.

19:00 – The Great British Bake Off: Christmas Special: 2023 

BBC Lifestyle, DStv Channel 174

Paul Hollywood and Prue Leith celebrate Christmas with the ‘Baker Ghosts of Christmas Past’, in a festive fete.

Christmas Day (Wednesday, 25 December 2024)

18:00 – Weakest Link Christmas Special

BBC Brit, DStv Channel 120

British Comedian, Romesh Ranganathan brings his festive cheer to a star-studded Christmas special of The Weakest Link. Find out who will rise to the challenge and who will hear the dreaded words: “You are the weakest link.”

19:00 – Strictly Come Dancing Christmas Special 2024

BBC Brit, DStv Channel 120

Experience the sparkle, sequins, and sensational performances as Strictly adds a festive twist!

Boxing Day (Thursday, 26 December 2024)

19:00 – The Masked Singer Christmas Special 

BBC Brit, DStv Channel 120

Can you guess which celebrity is hiding behind the mask? Join the fun and festive suspense on the big entertainment for the whole family to enjoy.

Friday, 27 December 2024

20:35 – QI Christmas Special 

BBC Brit, DStv Channel 120

Sandi Toksvig hosts the ultimate quiz show full of witty banter and fascinating facts.

Monday, 30 December 2024

20:00 – Death in Paradise Christmas Special

BBC Brit, DStv Channel 120

It’s the most wonderful time of the year as we return to the sun-drenched Saint Marie, joining the police team and a new Detective Inspector for a festive feature-length Death In Paradise Christmas special. 

New Year’s Eve (Tuesday, 31 December 2024)

21:00 – Mrs Brown’s Boys: New Year 2024: New Year, New Mammy

BBC Brit, DStv Channel 120

Kickstart your New Year with outrageous humour and heartfelt family moments with Mrs Brown and her three boys.

Keep the festive times rolling with BBC Studios, the home of exceptional British entertainment that offers an eclectic mix of shows for the whole family, full of food, game shows, shiny floor, lifestyle, drama and so much more.

Catch all the fun on DStv or DStv Catch Up, in case you missed some of your favourites. Let BBC Studios bring the joy of Christmas to your home this festive season.

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) have the potential to harness the power of technological innovations to level the playing field with larger retailers, especially during high shopping traffic periods such as the festive season. As digital transformation continues to revolutionise how businesses operate, compete, and serve their customers, adopting the right technologies can present significant growth opportunities.

Digital tools have reshaped the retail landscape, allowing even the smallest businesses to reach large, even global, audiences and provide a seamless shopping experience. With e-commerce platforms, mobile payment solutions, and advanced customer analytics, SMEs can scale their operations and optimise their offerings in real time to meet rising customer expectations for speed and convenience – making technology a key business strategy for success.

These businesses can make quick, informed decisions, manage supply chains efficiently, and predict consumer trends thanks to tech solutions such as automation and data-driven insights. This agility allows them to anticipate demand, particularly during high-pressure periods such as the festive shopping season. Additionally, tech-enabled data analytics help SMEs adjust pricing, manage inventory with precision, and deliver personalised experiences that build customer loyalty. Innovations such as contactless payments and mobile-based point-of-sale systems have become essential, with cashless transaction solutions enhancing checkout speeds and providing the security and convenience consumers expect.

For Norman Nyawo, the Head of Merchant Solutions for Business and Commercial Banking at Standard Bank South Africa, “This shift towards digital payment technology is crucial during high-traffic shopping events when long queues and transaction delays can make or break sales success. To this end, solutions such as our SimplyBLU platform enable businesses to efficiently manage online payments, ensuring a frictionless experience for customers. Similarly, our SnapScan offering facilitates cashless, streamlined transactions that boost customer satisfaction, especially when time is of the essence.”

By adopting these and other cutting-edge solutions, SMEs not only equip their operations with the tools to capitalise on peak shopping opportunities but also lay the groundwork for sustained growth. Further, the right technology can break down barriers to accessing capital, with digital lending platforms and crowdsourcing tools enabling entrepreneurs to secure funding more efficiently to scale up and meet seasonal demand. Standard Bank’s Thundafund platform exemplifies how financial innovation opens new pathways for entrepreneurial success, reflecting the bank’s commitment to partnering with businesses to start, manage, and grow their operations.

“Technological adoption is a game changer for SMEs. Through our merchant solutions, we turn possibilities into opportunities for the vibrant businesses that power Africa’s economy, equipping them with the digital solutions they need to compete on an equal footing with larger players. During high-traffic periods, having efficient and secure digital payment solutions is not just a luxury but a necessity,” adds Nyawo.

Beyond high-demand shopping seasons, South Africa’s e-commerce market continues to evolve, with international platforms such as Shein and Temu gaining traction among local consumers. These changes, coupled with the growth of online marketplaces like Facebook’s and Makro’s, are intensifying competition and transforming consumer expectations. SMEs must accelerate their adoption of e-commerce strategies to remain competitive and seize emerging growth opportunities.

The story of technological innovation is one of empowerment. For SMEs, embracing digital transformation is not optional but essential, enabling even the smallest enterprises to thrive in an increasingly digital marketplace.

The smartphone market is poised for a strong 2025, driven by product portfolio refreshes among leading handset manufacturers, rising consumer interest in innovative artificial intelligence (AI) features, and growing demand for and increased affordability of 5G devices.

IDC’s five-year forecast for smartphone shipments worldwide by operating system shows that the smartphone market reached 1.21 billion units shipped in 2024, up 4.0% from 2023. According to IDC, sales of affordable Android smartphones are growing rapidly in emerging markets, while premium markets are embracing new AI features. 

Here are some of the key trends to watch in 2025:

5G adoption accelerates throughout Africa

Throughout Africa, we have seen a surge in 5G investment, including spectrum auctions, pilots and commercial launches. With smartphone manufacturers leveraging the latest systems on chips (SoCs), we are also seeing more affordable 5G-ready smartphones hit the market. This has set the stage for accelerated 5G adoption across Africa in 2025. IDC forecasts 13.2% growth in global sales of 5G-powered devices in 2025, following near 16% growth in 2024. 

Generative AI fuels the next generation of smartphone innovation 

Chipmakers like MediaTek are integrating next-generation generative AI features with their SoCs. Our Dimensity 9300 platform, for example, includes the MediaTek NPU 790 generative AI engine to allow faster, safer edge AI computing. This enables smartphone manufacturers like Xiaomi to create a range of innovative generative AI experiences. 

Some examples of the features we can expect to become commonplace in smartphones include AI-generated subtitles for video calls, real-time translations of multiple languages and AI notetaking with summaries and proofreading. The productivity gains in classrooms, work and personal life will be enormous. 

IDC forecasts that AI-powered devices will be the fastest-growing segment in the smartphone category. Growth in 2025 is expected to hit 73%. By 2028, worldwide gen AI smartphone shipments will reach 912 million units, representing a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 78.4% for 2023-2028.

AI-driven cameras and displays

Integrated AI features will continue to enhance smartphone camera and display experiences. On-device AI Image Signal Processing, AI Noise Reduction, AI processing on RAW photos and videos, and other utilities like real-time bokeh tracking are rapidly trickling down to mainstream smartphones. 

Focus on security 

Smartphone security is a key concern because of the sensitive information stored on our devices, such as biometrics and financial data. AI-powered security tools and theft detection features are crucial for protecting this information and keeping our data away from prying eyes. The Dimensity 9300, for instance, includes a privacy-focused design that resists physical attacks on data access by protecting important processes during boot-up and when performing secure computing. 

Enhanced photography 

We can expect 2025 to be the year the new Ultra HDR format really takes off. Ultra HDR is a big step forward for mobile photography, making photos look much more vibrant while ensuring that files are compatible with the universally supported JPEG format. Chipsets like the MediaTek Dimensity 9300 are revolutionizing photography and videography, thanks to support for the new Ultra HDR format and always-on HDR recording at up to 4K resolution at 60 frames per second (fps).

Closing the gaming performance gap

The latest SoCs feature power-efficient graphics processing to give gamers full raytracing experiences at a smooth 60 frames per second and console-grade global illumination effects. We are seeing near home-console or PC levels of fidelity and performance emerge on a device you can carry in your pocket.  The MediaTek Dimensity 9300’s GPU, for instance, provides 46% higher peak performance with 40% power savings, leading to longer battery life and game times.

Conclusion

The smartphone market is set for robust growth in 2025, driven by technological advancements and evolving consumer needs. At MediaTek, we aim to play a critical role in the adoption of next-generation technology, empowering manufacturers like Xiaomi to deliver innovative features such as cutting-edge generative AI functionalities at an affordable cost.

Rami Osman is the Director for Business Development, MediaTek Middle East and Africa

ION Mining’s cloud mining With the rapid development of the digital economy, every new advancement in the field of cryptocurrency has attracted significant attention. 

Donald Trump was re-elected as president. During his campaign, the president-elect announced his commitment to making the United States the ‘cryptocurrency capital of the world’ and stated that he would establish a national Bitcoin reserve. Currently, the “Trump effect” has pushed Bitcoin to become the eighth largest asset in the world, surpassing silver. This has sparked discussions about his ambitious plan to create a national strategic Bitcoin reserve and has prompted people to reconsider how digital assets are held and invested. As this trend continues, new crypto investment methods, such as cloud mining, have gained more attention.

The Rise of Cloud Mining: The Innovative Path of ION Mining

Cloud mining is an investment model that does not require users to purchase mining equipment, but instead obtains computing power through cloud services for mining. It has gradually emerged in recent years, and the cloud mining contracts provided by ION Mining have become the leader of this trend. Through ION’s cloud mining contracts, users can easily obtain mining income from crypto assets such as Bitcoin and Ethereum, and the entry threshold is low, which is very suitable for people who want to try the cryptocurrency field but lack mining equipment. Once users join ION’s mining plan, the mined cryptocurrency can be transferred to the account at any time and easily converted into cash.

The benefits of registering for ION mining

①：Get free cash: New users can receive a $15 bonus upon registration.

②：Daily sign-in bonus: Users can earn $0.75 per day by consistently participating on the platform.

③：Diverse contract choices: Investors can select from a wide variety of contracts, with daily interest rates and potential returns clearly displayed on the platform.

For example:

• Invest $300 for 1 day, with a daily profit of $4.56, resulting in a total profit of $300 + $4.56 = $304.56.
• Invest $1000 for 3 days, with a daily profit of $20.3, resulting in a total profit of $1000 + $60.9 = $1060.9
• Invest $5000 for 10 days, with a daily profit of $116, resulting in a total profit of $5000 + $1160 = $6160.

ION Mining offers a variety of efficient mining contract options ranging from $100 to $500,000, each with its own ROI and contract duration.

Referral Program: Users can earn referral rewards to increase their earning potential.

Join our Partner Program and earn up to 5% plus a 2% lifetime commission bonus! (Level 1: 5% + Level 2: 2%) You can be your own boss and start earning money without any initial investment.

For example:

• If A recommends B to invest, and B invests $10,000, then A receives a 5% bonus ($500).
• If B then recommends C to invest, and C invests $10,000, then B receives a 5% bonus ($500) and A also receives a 2% bonus ($200).
• Security measures: The platform is protected by McAfee® and Cloudflare® to ensure the safety of user data and investments.
•  ION Mining understands that security and legality are crucial, operating transparently and compliantly. Users can log in to the platform in real time to monitor their earnings, and there is insurance coverage for every investment project. 

24/7 online service for users, providing real-time answers to questions.

Choose ION cloud mining to achieve your dream of wealth!

As the cryptocurrency market continues to grow, Smart Cloud Mining makes it easy for anyone to join the cryptocurrency mining craze. ION Mining remains a pioneer in the field, providing a straightforward path to profitability. Whether you are an experienced cryptocurrency enthusiast or a complete novice, ION Mining welcomes you to join the ranks of those earning easy passive income.

 In this digital age filled with opportunities, ION Mining’s cloud mining contracts open the door to wealth and freedom for you. Join ION Mining today and explore a better tomorrow.

For more information, visit its official website: https://ionmining.com/or click (Download the IONmining.com app today) or email on info@ionmining.com