As a business owner, one should always been on the lookout for innovative ways to connect with potential customers. Recently, I stumbled upon a game-changer: WhatsApp’s Business Search Feature. Let me share my insights on this powerful tool that bridges the gap between businesses and their clientele.
What Is WhatsApp’s Business Search?
WhatsApp Business Search is a game-changing feature that simplifies how people find and initiate conversations with businesses. Imagine a seamless experience where users can discover and connect with your business—all within the familiar WhatsApp interface. Here’s how it works:
Discover Businesses: Users can access the feature by tapping the new chat icon and selecting “Discover businesses.” It’s like having a curated directory of businesses right at their fingertips.
Country-Specific Results: Search results are tailored to the user’s country, ensuring relevant listings. For instance, users with a +44 prefix will see UK-only results.
Alphabetical Order: Listings appear in alphabetical order, making it easy for users to find what they’re looking for.
Why Businesses Should Embrace It
Enhanced Visibility
By opting in, businesses gain visibility to potential customers actively seeking their services. Imagine being part of a dynamic marketplace where users can find you effortlessly. It’s like having a prime spot at a bustling bazaar.
Seamless Conversations
WhatsApp Business Search allows users to start conversations without leaving the app. No need to switch between platforms or juggle multiple tabs. As a business owner, this means more meaningful interactions with potential clients.
Verified Businesses Shine
Verified businesses—those with Official Business Accounts or Verified Business Accounts—are automatically listed. It’s like having a prestigious storefront with a neon sign that says, “Trustworthy and Legit.”
Opt-Out Flexibility
Businesses can choose to opt out of search functionality if needed. Via the WhatsApp Business Manager, you can control your visibility. Opting out doesn’t mean you’re hiding; it’s about strategic timing and managing inquiries effectively.
Pricing Transparency
The WhatsApp Business Platform operates on a per-conversation pricing model. You’re only charged for user-initiated conversations (when you reply). Rates vary based on the recipient’s phone number. It’s like paying for quality leads rather than random cold calls.
How Users Can Access It
Open WhatsApp.
Tap the floating chat icon
Tap “Businesses” under “Discover.”
Type in the business name or browse by category (e.g., restaurants, salons).
Privacy and Trust
Rest assured, business account information is handled in accordance with WhatsApp Business Terms of Service. Your reputation matters, and WhatsApp ensures a secure environment for both businesses and users.
In conclusion, WhatsApp’s Business Search Feature is a win-win. So, as entrepreneurs, let’s embrace it, connect with our audience, and build lasting relationships—one chat at a time! Remember, verified businesses are the stars of this show. Shine bright, and let WhatsApp do the rest.
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are solely based on my personal experience and research. Always refer to official documentation for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
If you are looking for a new smartphone but don’t want to pay the full price or contribute to the environmental impact of electronic waste, you might want to consider buying a refurbished phone from Back Market. Back Market is an online platform that connects customers with certified sellers of refurbished devices, such as smartphones, laptops, tablets, and more. You can find up to 70% off on new models, free delivery, 12-month warranty, and 30-day returns.
What is a refurbished phone?
A refurbished phone is a pre-owned device that has been tested, repaired, and restored to full working order by professionals. Refurbished phones come in different grades, depending on their cosmetic condition and accessories included.
Grade A (Pristine or Excellent): These are usually customer returns or phones that have been sent back due to minor defects that are fixed. They look and work as good as new, and often come with the original box and accessories.
Grade B (Good): These are phones that have light signs of use, such as small scratches, dents, or nicks. They are fully functional and may come with original accessories.
Grade C (Fair): These are phones that have moderate signs of use, such as visible scratches or marks. They are still in working order, but may not come with original accessories.
Why buy a refurbished phone from Back Market?
There are many benefits to buying a refurbished phone from Back Market, both for your wallet and the planet.
Save money: You can get a high-quality smartphone for a fraction of the price of a new one. For example, you can buy a Samsung Galaxy S21 5G for £227.99, which is 20% cheaper than buying it new.
Save the environment: You can reduce the amount of electronic waste that ends up in landfills or incinerators, and help conserve the natural resources that are used to produce new devices. Back Market estimates that by buying a refurbished phone, you can save 148g of e-waste and 12kg of CO2 emissions.
Support the circular economy: You can support the businesses that are committed to repairing and reusing devices, rather than discarding them. Back Market is a certified B-Corp, which means that it meets high standards of social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency.
How to choose a refurbished phone from Back Market?
Back Market makes it easy to find and compare refurbished phones from different sellers and brands. You can use the filters to narrow down your search by price, condition, storage, colour, warranty, and more. You can also read the customer reviews and ratings for each product and seller, to get an idea of the quality and service you can expect.
Some of the best refurbished phones that are available on Back Market right now are:
iPhone 12 Pro: This is one of the latest and most powerful iPhones, with a 6.1-inch OLED display, a triple-camera system, 5G connectivity, and a sleek design. You can buy an excellent grade refurbished iPhone 12 Pro for £334.
Google Pixel 7: This is one of the best Android phones, with a 6.3-inch OLED display, a dual-camera system, 5G connectivity, and a fast processor. You can buy a Grade A refurbished Google Pixel 7 for £289.
Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G: This is a fan-favourite Samsung phone, with a 6.5-inch AMOLED display, a quad-camera system, 5G connectivity, and a long-lasting battery. You can buy a Grade B refurbished Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G for £214.81.
Conclusion
Buying a refurbished phone from Back Market is a smart way to get a great device for a great price, while also doing your part to protect the environment and support the circular economy. You can browse through thousands of products from hundreds of sellers, and enjoy the peace of mind of a 12-month warranty and a 30-day return policy. So, what are you waiting for? Visit Back Market today and find your perfect refurbished phone.
WhatsApp is one of the most popular messaging apps in the world, with over 2 billion users. It allows you to send text, voice, video, and media messages to your contacts, as well as make voice and video calls. But did you know that you can also format your text messages to make them more expressive and attractive?
In this article, I will show you how to use WhatsApp’s new text formatting features, which let you add bullets, quotes, numbering, and inline code to your messages. These features are brand new and were introduced in the latest update of WhatsApp in February 2024. They are available on both Android and iOS devices, and work on both individual and group chats.
How to Add Bullets to Your Messages
Bullets are useful when you want to list some items or points in your message. To add bullets to your message, you need to use a dash (-) before each item. For example, if you want to send a message like this:
You need to type it like this:
– I need to buy some groceries
I have a meeting at 3 pm
I will call you later
When you send the message, WhatsApp will automatically convert the dashes into bullets.
How to Add Quotes to Your Messages
Quotes are useful when you want to highlight a phrase or a sentence from another source, such as a book, a movie, or a website. To add quotes to your message, you need to use a greater than sign (>) before the quote. For example, if you want to send a message like this:
You need to type it like this:
> The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. – Lao Tzu
When you send the message, WhatsApp will automatically add quotation marks and a vertical line to the quote.
How to Add Numbering to Your Messages
Numbering is useful when you want to order some items or steps in your message. To add numbering to your message, you need to use a number followed by a dot (.) before each item. For example, if you want to send a message like this:
You need to type it like this:
1. Open WhatsApp
2. Tap on the chat you want to send a message to
3. Type your message and press send
When you send the message, WhatsApp will automatically add spaces and align the numbers.
How to Add Inline Code to Your Messages
Inline code is useful when you want to show some code snippets or commands in your message. To add inline code to your message, you need to use a backtick (`) before and after the code. For example, if you want to send a message like this:
You need to type it like this:
The formula for the area of a circle is `A = pi * r^2`.
When you send the message, WhatsApp will automatically format the code with a monospaced font and a gray background.
Conclusion
WhatsApp’s new text formatting features are a great way to make your messages more interesting and organized. You can use bullets, quotes, numbering, and inline code to add some variety and emphasis to your text. Try them out and see how they work for you!
The iPhone SE is one of the oldest models in Apple’s lineup. It was first released in 2020, and then updated in 2022, but it has not received any major changes since then. It has a 4.7-inch LCD screen with thick bezels, a single 12-megapixel rear camera, a Touch ID home button, and a Lightning port. It runs on the A15 Bionic chip, which is still fast enough for most tasks, but not as powerful as the newer A16 or A17 chips. It also has some features that are common in modern smartphones, such as wireless charging and 5G, but it lacks some of the latest and greatest features that are on the market.
The iPhone SE is clearly not a flagship device, but it is not meant to be one. It is designed for people who want a simple, compact, and affordable smartphone that works well with the Apple ecosystem. It is also a good choice for people who prefer the classic iPhone design, or who are not comfortable with facial recognition or gesture-based navigation. The iPhone SE is still supported by Apple, and it can run the latest version of iOS, which means it can access most of the apps and services that are available on the newer iPhones.
The iPhone SE is not without its drawbacks, however. The battery life is mediocre, especially compared to the larger iPhones. The camera quality is decent, but not impressive, and it does not have a night mode, an ultra-wide lens, or a telephoto lens. The screen resolution is low, and it does not support HDR, Dolby Vision, or a high refresh rate display. The storage options are limited, and there is no option to expand it with a microSD card. The design is also outdated, and it does not stand out among the sleeker and more modern smartphones that are on the market.
How could Apple make the iPhone SE better? Here are some possible improvements that could make the SE more appealing to the customers in 2024:
A modern design that removes the Touch ID completely and brings a better screen size and thinner bezels. The iPhone SE could adopt a similar design to the iPhone 15, which has a 6.1-inch OLED screen with a Dynamic Island cut-out for the cameras and sensors or maybe the notch we had on the older iPhones(X -14). This would make the SE more attractive and immersive, while still keeping it relatively compact and easy to use with one hand.
A USB-C port instead of a Lightning port. The iPhone SE could switch to the universal and versatile USB-C port, which is already used by many other devices, such as MacBooks, iPads, and Android phones. This would make the SE more compatible and convenient, as well as more future-proof and environmentally friendly.
A dual camera setup instead of a single camera. The iPhone SE could add a second camera to the back, such as an ultra-wide lens or a telephoto lens. This would enhance the SE’s photography and video capabilities, and offer more creative options and flexibility to the users. The SE could also improve its camera software, such as adding a night mode or a portrait mode, to make the most of its hardware.
A smaller chip than the flagship models, but still powerful and efficient. The iPhone SE could use a slightly lower-end chip than the A16 or A17, such as the A15 or A14, which are still very fast and capable, but also more affordable and energy-saving. This would help the SE maintain its budget-friendly price, while also improving its performance and battery life.
The iPhone SE is a phone that appeals to a niche market of users who value simplicity, compactness, and affordability over innovation, performance, and aesthetics. It is a phone that is good enough for most people, but not great for anyone. It is a phone that is still relevant in 2024, but not future-proof. It is a phone that is a relic of the past, but also a bargain for the present. However, with some minor tweaks and upgrades, the iPhone SE could become a more attractive and competitive option for the customers who are looking for a balance between quality and price.
Mistplay is an app that pays you for playing games on your phone. It sounds like a dream come true for gamers, but is it really legit or just a scam? I decided to test it out and share my experience with you.
How Mistplay Works
Mistplay is an app that you can download from the Google Play Store or the App Store. You can sign up with your email or Facebook account and start browsing through a list of games that are compatible with Mistplay. You can choose any game you like and install it through Mistplay.
When you play a game through Mistplay, you earn points called Units. The amount of Units you earn depends on how long you play, how often you play, and your level in the game. You can also earn bonus Units by completing achievements and reaching milestones in the game.
You can redeem your Units for various rewards, such as gift cards, prepaid cards, or cash via PayPal. The minimum points required for redemption vary depending on the reward. For example, you need 2000 Units for a £5 Amazon or Mastercard gift card, but you need 3500 Units for a £10 Starbucks gift card.
My Experience with Mistplay
I downloaded Mistplay on my Android phone and signed up with my email. I got a welcome bonus of 200 Units for joining. I looked at the games and decided to try Lords Mobile and Doomsday, both from IGG Games. I installed them through Mistplay and started playing.
I noticed that there was a progress bar at the top of the screen that showed how many Units I was earning and how close I was to the next checkpoint. Each checkpoint gave me 100 Units and a bonus for reaching it. The checkpoints were measured by the amount of time I spent in the game, but I don’t know the exact intervals.
I played both games for the whole day and earned around 1800+ Units in total. I also completed some achievements and milestones that gave me extra Units. I was now at 2000+ Units, which was enough for a £5 Mastercard gift card. I decided to redeem it and see if it would work. I entered my details and confirmed the redemption. I expected to receive a confirmation email with a code for my gift card, but instead, I received a message that said my withdrawal was not approved. It also said that my account was put on hold and that I had to contact their support team for more information.
I wasn’t that shocked, but honestly I thought Mistplay was legit and that they would pay me for playing games. I wondered what I did wrong and why they rejected my withdrawal. I decided to contact their support team and ask for an explanation. I sent them an email with my account details and my withdrawal request. I am still waiting for their reply.
My Conclusion
Based on my experience, I can say that Mistplay is not a scam, but it is not very reliable either. It does pay you with real gift cards, but it takes a long time to earn enough points to withdraw them. And even if you do, there is no guarantee that your withdrawal will be approved.
So, if you are looking for a quick and easy way to make money online, Mistplay is not for you. But if you enjoy playing games and don’t mind waiting for your rewards, you can give it a try and see for yourself. Just be prepared for some possible disappointment and frustration.
Dream League Soccer 2024 is out now! The latest edition of the popular soccer game series has been released on 1 December 2023, four days earlier than many fans expected, I even mentioned it in my previous article on DLS. If you are a soccer lover and a gaming enthusiast, you don’t want to miss this exciting new version of DLS 24.
Dream League Soccer 2024 offers a range of features that make it the ultimate soccer game on Android. You can build your own team, customize your players and kits, and compete in various modes, including online multiplayer. The game also boasts high-quality graphics, realistic animations, and enhanced controls, giving you a realistic and immersive soccer experience.
I have played the game myself, and I can say that it is one of the best soccer games I have ever tried. The gameplay is smooth and responsive, the graphics are stunning and detailed, and the sound effects are realistic and immersive. The game also has a lot of content and variety, with different leagues, tournaments, and challenges to keep you entertained for hours.
If you are looking for a fun and engaging soccer game on Android, you should definitely check out Dream League Soccer 2024. You can download it for free from the Google Play Store or from the official website. You can also follow the game’s Facebook page for updates and news. Trust me, you won’t regret it!
To give you a glimpse of what the game looks like, here are some screenshots from the game below. Enjoy!
The year 2023 has been a remarkable one for the smartphone industry, with many new innovations, features, and designs that have pushed the boundaries of mobile technology. Whether you are looking for a budget-friendly device, a powerful performer, a camera beast, a gaming monster, or something else, there is a smartphone for you in 2023. In this article, I will share my personal opinion on the best smartphones of 2023 in different categories, based on the available information and reviews from various sources. Note that this article is not based on any hands-on experience, but only on research.
Best Affordable Phone: Samsung Galaxy A14 5G
If you are looking for a smartphone that offers 5G connectivity, a decent performance, a good battery life, and a nice design, without breaking the bank, then the Samsung Galaxy A14 5G is a great choice. This phone was launched in January 2023, and it is priced at $199.99. It features a 6.5-inch HD+ LCD display, a MediaTek Dimensity 700 chipset, 4GB of RAM, 64GB of storage, a 48MP main camera, a 5MP ultra-wide camera, a 2MP macro camera, a 2MP depth camera, a 13MP selfie camera, a 5000mAh battery, and a side-mounted fingerprint scanner. It runs on Android 12 with One UI 4.0 on top. The Galaxy A14 5G is a solid mid-range phone that can handle most tasks and apps smoothly, and it supports 15W fast charging. It also has a sleek design with a gradient back and a punch-hole display. The Galaxy A14 5G competes with other affordable 5G phones such as the Motorola Moto G Power 5G, the OnePlus Nord N200 5G, and the TCL 20 5G.
Best Performance Phone: Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max
When it comes to performance, no other phone can match the Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max, which was launched in September 2023. This phone is powered by the Apple A16 Bionic chip, which is the most advanced processor in the market, with a 5nm+ process, a six-core CPU, a five-core GPU, a 16-core Neural Engine, and 8GB of RAM. The iPhone 15 Pro Max also has a stunning 6.7-inch OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, a 2778×1284 resolution, and HDR10 support. It has 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, or 1TB of storage options, and it runs on iOS 17. The iPhone 15 Pro Max also has an impressive camera system, with a 12MP wide-angle camera, a 12MP telephoto camera with 3x optical zoom, a 12MP ultra-wide camera, and a LiDAR scanner. It can record 4K video at 60fps, and it supports Dolby Vision, ProRAW, and Cinematic mode. The front camera is also a 12MP sensor with Face ID and Animoji support. The iPhone 15 Pro Max has a 4500mAh battery that supports 25W wired charging, 15W wireless charging, and reverse wireless charging. It also has stereo speakers, IP68 water and dust resistance, MagSafe accessories, and 5G connectivity. The iPhone 15 Pro Max is the ultimate performance phone that can handle any task or game with ease, and it offers a smooth and fluid user experience. It is priced at $1,199, and it faces competition from other flagship phones such as the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra, the Google Pixel 8 Pro, and the OnePlus 12 Pro.
Phone with the Best Camera: Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra
If you are a photography enthusiast, or you just want to capture the best moments of your life, then the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra is the phone for you. This phone was launched in February 2023, and it has a remarkable camera system that consists of a 108MP main camera, a 12MP periscope telephoto camera with 10x optical zoom, a 12MP telephoto camera with 3x optical zoom, a 12MP ultra-wide camera, and a laser autofocus sensor. It can record 8K video at 30fps, and it supports HDR10+, Super Steady mode, and Director’s View. The front camera is a 40MP sensor that can record 4K video at 60fps, and it supports Night mode and Live Focus. The Galaxy S23 Ultra also has a gorgeous 6.9-inch Dynamic AMOLED display with a 1440×3200 resolution, a 120Hz refresh rate, and Corning Gorilla Glass Victus protection. It is powered by the Exynos 2200 chipset in some regions, and the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset in others, both of which are based on a 4nm process and have an integrated AMD GPU. It has 12GB or 16GB of RAM, and 128GB, 256GB, or 512GB of storage, which can be expanded via a microSD card. It runs on Android 12 with One UI 4.0 on top. The Galaxy S23 Ultra has a 5000mAh battery that supports 45W wired charging, 25W wireless charging, and 15W reverse wireless charging. It also has stereo speakers, IP68 water and dust resistance, an in-display fingerprint scanner, an S Pen support, and 5G connectivity. The Galaxy S23 Ultra is the best camera phone of 2023, as it offers a versatile and powerful camera system that can capture stunning photos and videos in any situation. It is priced at $1,199.99, and it rivals other camera phones such as the Huawei P60 Pro, the Xiaomi 13 Pro, and the Oppo Find X5 Pro.
Best Gaming Phone: Asus ROG Phone 7
If you are a hardcore gamer, or you just want to enjoy the best mobile gaming experience, then the Asus ROG Phone 7 is the phone for you. This phone was launched in July 2023, and it is a gaming beast that has a 6.78-inch AMOLED display with a 1440×3200 resolution, a 144Hz refresh rate, a 300Hz touch sampling rate, and HDR10+ support. It is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset, which is the most powerful processor for Android phones, with a 4nm process, an octa-core CPU, an Adreno 730 GPU, and a Snapdragon Elite Gaming suite. It has 12GB, 16GB, or 18GB of RAM, and 256GB, 512GB, or 1TB of storage. It runs on Android 12 with ROG UI on top. The ROG Phone 7 also has a massive 6000mAh battery that supports 65W wired charging, 30W wireless charging, and 10W reverse wireless charging. It also has dual front-facing speakers, a 3.5mm headphone jack, a quad-microphone system, an RGB logo, an AeroActive Cooler 7 accessory, and a side-mounted port for other accessories. The ROG Phone 7 also has a decent camera system, with a 64MP main camera, a 13MP ultra-wide camera, a 5MP macro camera, and an 8K video recording support. The front camera is a 24MP sensor that can record 1080p video at 60fps. The ROG Phone 7 is the best gaming phone of 2023, as it offers a superb performance, a smooth and responsive display, a long-lasting battery, a loud and clear sound, and a range of gaming features and accessories. It is priced at $999, and it competes with other gaming phones such as the Lenovo Legion Phone 3, the Nubia Red Magic 7, and the Black Shark 5.
Phone with the Best Battery: Motorola Moto G Power 5G
If you are looking for a phone that can last for days on a single charge, then the Motorola Moto G Power 5G is the phone for you. I know you thought I was going to talk about an itel device, but no we’re with Motorola. This phone was launched in April 2023, and it has a huge 6000mAh battery that supports 20W wired charging. It also has a 6.8-inch LCD display with a 1080×2400 resolution, a 90Hz refresh rate, and a punch-hole design. It is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 700 chipset, which is a 5G-enabled processor with a 7nm process, an octa-core CPU, and a Mali-G57 MC2 GPU. It has 4GB or 6GB of RAM, and 64GB or 128GB of storage, which can be expanded via a microSD card. It runs on Android 12 with My UX on top. The Moto G Power 5G also has a decent camera system, with a 48MP main camera, a 5MP ultra-wide camera, a 2MP macro camera, a 2MP depth camera, and a 1080p video recording support. The front camera is a 16MP sensor that can record 1080p video at 30fps. The Moto G Power 5G is the best battery phone of 2023, as it offers a phenomenal battery life, a large and smooth display, a 5G connectivity, and a clean and simple software. It is priced at $249.99, and it faces competition from yes, the itel S23+, P40 and P40+, it’s hard not to mention these two.
Best Foldable Phone: Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5
If you want a phone that can transform into a tablet, then the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 is the best foldable phone for you. This phone was launched in August 2023, and it has a stunning 7.6-inch Dynamic AMOLED display with a 2208×1768 resolution, a 120Hz refresh rate, and an under-display camera. It also has a 6.2-inch cover display with a 2268×832 resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate. It is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset, which is the most powerful processor for Android phones, with a 4nm process, an octa-core CPU, an Adreno 730 GPU, and a Snapdragon Elite Gaming suite. It has 12GB or 16GB of RAM, and 256GB or 512GB of storage. It runs on Android 12 with One UI 4.0 on top. The Galaxy Z Fold 5 also has an impressive camera system, with a 12MP main camera, a 12MP telephoto camera with 2x optical zoom, a 12MP ultra-wide camera, and an 8K video recording support. The cover camera is a 10MP sensor, and the under-display camera is a 4MP sensor. The Galaxy Z Fold 5 has a 4400mAh battery that supports 25W wired charging, 15W wireless charging, and 4.5W reverse wireless charging. It also has stereo speakers, IPX8 water resistance, an in-display fingerprint scanner, an S Pen support, and 5G connectivity. The Galaxy Z Fold 5 is the best foldable phone of 2023, as it offers a versatile and powerful device that can switch between a phone and a tablet mode, with a seamless and smooth user experience. It is priced at $1,799.99, and it competes with other tablet-style foldable phones such as the Huawei Mate X3, the Xiaomi Mi Mix Fold, and the Google Pixel Fold.
Best Customizable Phone: OnePlus Open
If you want a phone that you can customize to your liking, then the OnePlus Open is the best customizable phone for you. This phone was launched in October 2023, and it has a unique design that allows you to swap the back cover, the camera module, and the battery with different options. You can choose from various materials, colors, and styles for the back cover, such as leather, wood, metal, glass, or fabric. You can also choose from different camera modules, such as a 50MP main camera, a 12MP telephoto camera with 3x optical zoom, a 16MP ultra-wide camera, a 5MP macro camera, a 2MP depth camera, or a 48MP monochrome camera. You can also choose from different battery capacities, such as 4000mAh, 4500mAh, or 5000mAh, and different charging speeds, such as 30W, 50W, or 65W. The OnePlus Open also has a 6.7-inch Fluid AMOLED display with a 1440×3216 resolution, a 120Hz refresh rate, and HDR10+ support. It is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset, which is the most powerful processor for Android phones, with a 4nm process, an octa-core CPU, an Adreno 730 GPU, and a Snapdragon Elite Gaming suite. It has 8GB or 12GB of RAM, and 128GB or 256GB of storage. It runs on Android 12 with OxygenOS 13 on top. The OnePlus Open also has a 32MP selfie camera, an in-display fingerprint scanner, stereo speakers, and 5G connectivity. The OnePlus Open is the best customizable phone of 2023, as it offers a modular and flexible device that you can personalize to your preference, with a premium and elegant design. It is priced at $1,699, and it faces competition from other customizable phones such as the Nothing Phone (2), Motorola Moto Z5, the LG Wing 2, and the Fairphone 4.
Best Selling Phone: Apple iPhone 15
If you want a phone that is popular and widely used, then the Apple iPhone 15 is the best selling phone for you. This phone was launched in September 2023, and it has sold over 100 million units worldwide as of November 2023, according to Counterpoint Research⁵. It features a 6.1-inch OLED display with a 1170×2532 resolution, a 60Hz refresh rate, and HDR10 support. It is powered by the Apple A17 Bionic chip, which is the most advanced processor in the market, with a 5nm+ process, a six-core CPU, a four-core GPU, a 16-core Neural Engine, and 4GB of RAM. It has 64GB, 128GB, 256GB, or 512GB of storage options, and it runs on iOS 17. The iPhone 15 also has an Impressive camera system, with a 12MP wide-angle camera, a 12MP telephoto camera with 2x optical zoom, a 12MP ultra-wide camera, and a LiDAR scanner. It can record 4K video at 60fps, and it supports Dolby Vision, ProRAW, and Cinematic mode. The front camera is also a 12MP sensor with Face ID and Animoji support. The iPhone 15 has a 3095mAh battery that supports 20W wired charging, 15W wireless charging, and reverse wireless charging. It also has stereo speakers, IP68 water and dust resistance, MagSafe accessories, and 5G connectivity. The iPhone 15 is the best selling phone of 2023, as it offers a reliable and smooth performance, a stunning and durable design, and a loyal and satisfied customer base. It is priced at $799, and it competes with other popular phones such as the Samsung Galaxy S23, the Google Pixel 8, and the OnePlus 12.
Phone with the Best Speakers: Sony Xperia 1 V
If you want a phone that can deliver loud and clear sound, then the Sony Xperia 1 V is the best speakers phone for you. This phone was launched in June 2023, and it has a dual front-facing speaker system that consists of a top speaker and a bottom speaker. The speakers support Dolby Atmos, which enhances the sound quality and creates a surround sound effect. The speakers also have a dedicated amplifier, which boosts the volume and reduces distortion. The Xperia 1 V also has a 3.5mm headphone jack, which supports high-resolution audio and LDAC. It also has a built-in DAC, which converts digital signals to analog signals for better sound quality. The Xperia 1 V also has a stunning 6.5-inch OLED display with a 4K resolution, a 120Hz refresh rate, and HDR10+ support. It is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset, which is the most powerful processor for Android phones, with a 4nm process, an octa-core CPU, an Adreno 730 GPU, and a Snapdragon Elite Gaming suite. It has 8GB or 12GB of RAM, and 128GB or 256GB of storage, which can be expanded via a microSD card. It runs on Android 12 with Xperia UI on top. The Xperia 1 V also has an impressive camera system, with a 12MP main camera, a 12MP telephoto camera with 3x optical zoom, a 12MP ultra-wide camera, and a 3D ToF sensor. It can record 4K video at 120fps, and it supports Cinema Pro, Photo Pro, and Real-time Eye AF. The front camera is an 8MP sensor that can record 1080p video at 30fps. The Xperia 1 V has a 4500mAh battery that supports 30W wired charging, 15W wireless charging, and 5W reverse wireless charging. It also has IP68 water and dust resistance, a side-mounted fingerprint scanner, and 5G connectivity. The Xperia 1 V is the best speakers phone of 2023, as it offers a superb sound quality, a high-resolution display, a powerful performance, and a professional camera system. It is priced at $1,399.99, and it competes with other phones with great speakers such as the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra, the Google Pixel 7 Pro, and the Asus ROG Phone 7.
Best Dynamic Phone: Nothing Phone 2
If you want a phone that can adapt to your needs and preferences, then the Nothing Phone 2 is the best dynamic phone for you. This phone was launched in July 2023, and it has a unique design that features multiple LED lights on the back, which can be used for notifications, charging progress, camera fill light, and more. It also has a blinking red light on the back, which indicates video recording. The Phone 2 also has a 6.7-inch OLED display with a 1080×2412 resolution, a 120Hz refresh rate, and an under-display camera. It is powered by the Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 processor and has a 6.7-inch OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate. It has 8GB or 12GB of RAM, and 128GB or 256GB or 512GB of storage. It runs on Android 13 with Nothing OS 2.0.2a on top. The Phone 2 also has a dual-camera system on the back, with a 50MP main sensor and a 50MP ultrawide sensor. It can record 4K video at 60fps, and it supports live HDR, OIS, and EIS. The front camera is a 32MP sensor that can record 1080p video at 30fps. The Phone 2 has a 4700mAh battery that supports 45W wired charging, 15W wireless charging, and 5W reverse wireless charging. It also has stereo speakers, NFC, an in-display fingerprint scanner, and 5G connectivity. The Phone 2 is the best dynamic phone of 2023, as it offers a novel and customizable device that can change its appearance and functionality according to your mood and situation. It is priced at $599, and it faces competition from other dynamic phones such as the OnePlus Open, the LG Wing 2, and the Fairphone 4.
Best Rugged Phone: CAT S63
If you want a phone that can survive harsh conditions and environments, then the CAT S63 is the best rugged phone for you. This phone was launched in October 2023, and it has a 5.7-inch LCD display with a 1080×2160 resolution, a 60Hz refresh rate, and Corning Gorilla Glass 6 protection. It is powered by the MediaTek Helio P95 chipset, which is a reliable and efficient processor with a 12nm process, an octa-core CPU, and a PowerVR GM9446 GPU. It has 6GB of RAM, and 128GB of storage, which can be expanded via a microSD card. It runs on Android 12 with CAT UI on top. The CAT S63 also has a decent camera system, with a 16MP main camera, a 8MP ultra-wide camera, a 2MP macro camera, a 2MP depth camera, and a FLIR thermal imaging camera. It can record 1080p video at 30fps, and it supports HDR and Panorama. The front camera is a 8MP sensor that can record 1080p video at 30fps. The CAT S63 has a 5000mAh battery that supports 18W wired charging, 10W wireless charging, and 5W reverse wireless charging. It also has dual speakers, a 3.5mm headphone jack, a rear-mounted fingerprint scanner, and 4G connectivity. The CAT S63 is the best rugged phone of 2023, as it offers a durable and tough device that can withstand drops, shocks, water, dust, extreme temperatures, and more. It also has a thermal imaging camera that can detect heat sources and measure temperatures. It is priced at $799, and it rivals other rugged phones such as the Blackview BV9900 Pro, the Ulefone Armor 13, and the Doogee S97 Pro.
Conclusion
These are some of the best smartphones of 2023, in my opinion, in different categories. Of course, there are many other great phones that I did not mention, and you may have your own preferences and opinions. However, I hope this article gave you some insight and information about the latest and greatest smartphones of 2023, and helped you decide which one suits you best. This article is part of a 2023 wrap up series, where I list the best tech gadgets made in the year. The series also includes laptops, tablets, electric cars, and audio devices. Stay tuned for more articles in this series, and feel free to share your thoughts and feedback in the comments section below. Thank you for reading, and have a wonderful day!
As someone who loves to chat with friends and family online(like everybody else), I was curious to try out Talk Chart, a chat application that claims to be the first Zimbabwean-owned chat app that allows people to connect seamlessly from any part of the world. I downloaded the app from Google Play Store and installed it on my phone. Here are my thoughts on Talk Chart and its features.
What is Talk Chart?
According to the app description, Talk Chart is a fast, reliable, and secure chat app that lets you stay connected with your friends, family, and colleagues. You can send and receive text messages, photos, videos, voice messages, and more. The app also uses state-of-the-art encryption to keep your messages safe and private. Sounds pretty good, right?
Well, not so fast. The app also promises to offer some features such as buying airtime, electricity, and sending or receiving money through Talk Chart. There’s nothing bad about these though, my greatest concern is that they don’t have Ecocash or Paynow integration even though their target market is Zimbabwe. Crazy right?
How does Talk Chart compare to other chat apps?
The first thing I noticed when I opened the app was how familiar it looked. The app’s interface is almost identical to Whatsapp, the most popular chat app in the world. The app has the a green and blue color scheme, the same layout of tabs, the same icons, and the same fonts.
I was disappointed by the lack of originality and creativity in the app’s design. It felt like the developers just copied Whatsapp and changed a few things here and there. I was expecting something more unique and innovative, something that would reflect the Zimbabwean culture and identity, something that would make me proud to use a local product.
The app’s functionality is also very similar to Whatsapp’s. You can create or join groups, make voice or video calls, send or receive media files, and use emojis or stickers. Although the app doesn’t use Whatsapp’s sticker pack, that’s still not a green flag for me. The app also has a dark mode and a light mode, which you can switch between easily. The app works fine, but it does not offer anything new or different from Whatsapp.
The app’s performance is also not very impressive. The app consumes a lot of data, which is a problem for many Zimbabweans who have limited access to affordable internet. The app also drains the battery quickly, which is another inconvenience. The app also has frequent updates, which can be annoying and time-consuming. The app also has some bugs and glitches, such as messages not being delivered or received, calls being dropped, notifications not working properly and the most annoying one was that I couldn’t set up a profile picture.
What are the pros and cons of Talk Chart
To sum up, here are some of the pros and cons of Talk Chart that I found:
Pros:
It is a Zimbabwean-owned chat app, which is a rare and commendable achievement.
It is easy to use, as it has a familiar and intuitive interface.
It is free to download and use, as it does not charge any subscription fees or ads.
Cons:
It is not original or unique, as it copies Whatsapp’s design and functionality.
It is not innovative or creative, as it does not offer any new or different features.
It is not data or battery efficient, as it consumes a lot of resources.
It is not stable or bug-free, as it has frequent updates and glitches.
My verdict on Talk Chart
Overall, I think Talk Chart is a decent chat app, but it is not a great one. It is not a game-changer, as the developers claim. It is not a one-stop shop, as it does not have the features that it promises. It is not a Zimbabwean pride, as it does not reflect the Zimbabwean spirit.
I appreciate the effort and ambition of the developers, and I support their vision of creating a local product that can compete globally. However, I think they need to work harder and smarter to make Talk Chart stand out from the crowd. They need to improve the app’s design, functionality, performance, and stability. They need to add the features that they promised, and maybe some more that would surprise and delight the users. They need to make Talk Chart more than just a chat app, but a platform that connects, empowers, and enriches the Zimbabwean people.
That’s all for today, guys. Thank you for reading my article. If you have tried Talk Chart, let me know what you think about it in the comments. If you have not tried it yet, you can download it from the Play Store or the App Store and give it a try. if you’re looking for another app by Zimbabwean developers, check out Ruvara Rwakasiyana and Kai.
Hello, everyone. Today, I want to talk about something that I’ve been seeing for a while: the obsession with iPhone 16 leaks.
You probably know what I’m talking about. Ever since the iPhone 15 series came out in September 2023, the internet has been flooded with rumors, speculations, and alleged leaks about the next-generation iPhone models, expected to launch in late 2024. Yes, you read that right: late 2024. That’s more than a year away from now.
Don’t get me wrong, I love iPhones. I enjoy reading about the latest features and innovations that Apple brings to its flagship products, and I appreciate the work that goes into designing and engineering them.
But I also think that there is a limit to how much we should care about something that is so far away from reality. I mean, do we really need to know every single detail about the iPhone 16 before it even exists? Do we really need to see every possible render, prototype, and schematic of the device? Do we really need to debate over every possible rumor, leak, and speculation about the device?
I don’t think so. And here’s why.
First of all, most of these leaks are not reliable. They are based on unverified sources, sketchy websites, or anonymous tipsters. They often contradict each other, or change over time. They are not official, and they are not confirmed by Apple. They are just guesses, assumptions, or wishful thinking.
Second, even if some of these leaks are true, they are subject to change. Apple is known for testing multiple prototypes and variations of its products, and for making last-minute decisions and adjustments. What we see today may not be what we get tomorrow. Apple may surprise us with something completely different, or disappoint us with something less impressive.
Third, and most importantly, these leaks are not relevant. They are not affecting our lives in any meaningful way. They are not helping us to use our current devices better, or to solve our problems, or to achieve our goals. They are not making us happier, or smarter, or more productive. They are just distracting us from what really matters.
What really matters is the present. The here and now. The devices that we have in our hands, and the things that we can do with them. The apps that we use, and the content that we create. The people that we communicate with, and the experiences that we share. The moments that we enjoy, and the memories that we make.
That’s what I’m focused on. That’s what I’m obsessed with.
So, if you’re looking for iPhone 16 leaks, you won’t find them here. You’ll find them on other websites, like MacRumors, Lifewire, Laptop Mag, Mashable and many others. For the record, I’m not firing shots at any of these sites by the way, they have their belief, I have mine so let’s not end up making this controversial. You’ll find them on social media, like Twitter, Instagram, or YouTube.
Sasai was once hailed as Zimbabwe’s first and leading super app, a global social payments and digital marketplace platform that aimed to improve the overall quality of life for all Africans. Launched in 2019 by Cassava Fintech International, a subsidiary of Econet Wireless, Sasai offered a range of services such as money transfer, bill payment, chat, music streaming, gaming, and more. It was available in over 50 African countries and supported 40 languages, including local dialects.
Sasai seemed to have a promising future, especially after partnering with some of the continent’s leading brands such as DStv, Kwese, and Showmax. It also claimed to have over 5000 low-cost and free Wi-Fi hotspots across Africa, as well as a feature that allowed users to earn money by watching ads on the app. Sasai’s vision was to become the “WeChat of Africa”, a reference to the Chinese super app that has over a billion users and offers a variety of services from social media to e-commerce.
However, despite its ambitious goals and impressive features, Sasai failed to gain traction among the African users. According to the Google Play Store, Sasai had only 500,000+ downloads as of September 2022, a far cry from its target of 100 million users by 2020. The app also received mixed reviews from the users, who complained about its poor user interface, frequent crashes, high data consumption, and lack of customer support. Some users also questioned the security and privacy of the app, as it required access to many permissions and personal information.
So, what went wrong with Sasai? Why did it not live up to its hype and potential? There are several possible reasons for its downfall, such as:
Competition: Sasai faced stiff competition from other established and popular apps in the African market, such as WhatsApp, Facebook, M-Pesa, Jumia, and Uber. These apps already had a loyal and large user base, and offered similar or better services than Sasai. Sasai also had to contend with the dominance of mobile network operators, who controlled the access and pricing of data and voice services in most African countries.
Complexity: Sasai tried to do too many things at once, without focusing on its core value proposition and differentiating factor. It was not clear what problem Sasai was trying to solve, or what benefit it was offering to the users. Sasai also lacked a clear and consistent branding and marketing strategy, as it used different names and logos in different countries and platforms. Sasai’s app was also cluttered and confusing, with too many features and options that overwhelmed and frustrated the users.
Culture: Sasai failed to understand and adapt to the diverse and dynamic needs and preferences of the African users. Sasai assumed that what worked in China or other markets would work in Africa, without conducting proper research and testing. Sasai also ignored the local context and realities of the African countries, such as the low internet penetration, high data costs, low smartphone adoption, and regulatory challenges. Sasai also did not engage with the local communities and stakeholders, such as developers, merchants, influencers, and media, to build trust and awareness.
Sasai’s story is a cautionary tale for any aspiring or existing app developer or entrepreneur who wants to succeed in the African market. It shows that having a good idea and a lot of resources is not enough, if you do not understand your target audience and deliver value to them. It also shows that being a super app is not a goal in itself, but a result of solving a specific problem and satisfying a specific need. Sasai may have been a super app in theory, but it was not a super app in practice.
