So A month ago, I reviewed other music streaming services, looking for a replacement for my beloved Spotify, and boy, was it a promising ride particularly with Apple Music. So I decided to give it a try. The sleek and intuitive user interface, the smart algorithm that quickly picked up on my musical tastes, and the delightful animations – all these features made it seem like Apple Music might be my new go-to music streaming service. But after a month of testing, I found myself sticking with Spotify. Let me tell you why.
Apple Music: First Impressions
When I first started using Apple Music, I was very impressed. Trust me. The user interface was clean and visually appealing, arguably a lot better than Spotify’s static design. The animations added a nice touch of personality, making the experience feel more premium. Plus, the algorithm was quick to grasp my musical preferences, playing songs by my favorite artists and suggesting similar ones after just a few searches and one day in, I already had a fully stocked homepage with my favorite tunes. The “Top 100” playlists were a hit, offering me the latest music from both the UK and Zimbabwe, which was a nice touch.
However, as I continued using the service, a few shortcomings started to surface, particularly when compared to Spotify.
Cross-Device Playback
One of the biggest factors in my decision to stick with Spotify was the seamless integration with multiple devices. This is something I also gave strong emphasis on when I wrote the previous article, it’s a feature that I’m very much used to having and I can’t let it go. Both Apple Music and Spotify restrict playback to one device at a time, which makes sense – after all, you’re only one person, you can’t listen to music on two different devices at the same time. But here’s where Spotify shines: you can control playback across all your logged-in devices. For instance, I could start playing music on my TV and then use my phone or laptop to skip tracks, adjust the volume, or queue up a new playlist. This kind of flexibility isn’t available with Apple Music. Attempting to control playback from another device will simply stop the music, which can be pretty frustrating.
AI DJ and AI-Generated Playlists
Another standout feature of Spotify is its AI DJ and AI-generated playlists. These are real game-changers. The AI DJ curates music based on your listening habits, mood, and even the time of day, creating a highly personalized experience. It’s still in beta so it’s not yet perfect, but it works. Sometimes it plays the same selection over and over again, frustrating? Yes, but as soon as you reset it, it works well. And one more thing is that it’s not yet available on TVs, well at least for the one I have so there’s no AI DJ voice when I’m playing on the TV but it’ll be doing all the hard work in the background. The AI-generated playlists are similarly impressive, constantly updating with new tracks that fit your taste. Although I haven’t used these much since the AI DJ is perfect for me. Apple Music, on the other hand, doesn’t offer anything quite like this. While their algorithm is good at suggesting similar artists and genres, it doesn’t match the level of personalization that Spotify’s AI features provide.
Algorithm Accuracy
In my initial review, I praised Apple Music’s algorithm for quickly learning my preferences. And while it did a decent job initially, over time, I found it being a bit too broad in its selections, if you get what I’m saying. It often played tracks that had no real connection to my initial choices, despite trying to stay within the same genre or artist pool. This was a bit of a letdown, especially when I was in the mood for something specific. In contrast, Spotify’s algorithm seems to have a better handle on my tastes, consistently delivering playlists and recommendations that hit the mark.
Final Thoughts
So, after a month of using Apple Music, I’ve decided to stick with Spotify. The seamless cross-device playback, the impressive AI DJ, and the more accurate algorithm all played a part in my decision. Don’t get me wrong, Apple Music is still a fantastic service with a top-notch user interface and a vast music selection. If they could improve their cross-device functionality and fine-tune their algorithm a bit more, they’d be hard to beat. But for now, Spotify remains my go-to place for music streaming.
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I promised, and I delivered. In my previous article about the iPad calculator, I mentioned that I’d write an article about the WWDC, but then I decided to split them into multiple articles, better right? Anyways, Apple just dropped the bombshell we’ve all been waiting for: iOS 18. This isn’t just a fresh coat of paint, folks; it’s a full-on iPhone makeover. But before we dive into the juicy details, let’s just acknowledge the elephant in the room: some of these “new” features might look a tad familiar to our Android-loving friends.
New Tricks for an Old Dog
The biggest buzz is around the customisable home screen. Yep, you heard that right. You can now move app icons wherever you want on your iPhone, not just in that rigid grid we’ve been stuck with forever. And get this – you can even change the look of icons and widgets with fancy new themes. It’s like Apple finally decided to let us decorate our digital living rooms. Now this is where a vital question springs up. For as long as I can remember, Apple fanboys have been yapping about how customisation doesn’t matter… Why? Well maybe because a certain rival had it way before so just to try to run away from the fact that Android phones had better customisation options, they claimed that customisation is for people who don’t like their phones’ UIs and what not. Now that we have a customisable iPhone homescreen, let’s see what they’re gonna be saying. Oh and we don’t wanna here the “Apple did it better” line this time 😹.
I might have broken character back there :(, but oh well. Like I said, and something that most of you are thinking: “Didn’t Android do this, like, a decade ago?” Well, yes. Yes, they did. In fact, Android 4 (Ice Cream Sandwich), released back in 2011, already had this feature. But well It’s kind of funny how things come full circle, isn’t it?
But hey, I’m not here to start a fanboy war. At the end of the day, both iOS and Android are great operating systems with their own strengths and weaknesses. And who knows, maybe Apple’s implementation might even be as good as we’ve seen on it’s Android counterparts.
Apple Intelligence
But wait, there’s more! iOS 18 also introduces “Apple Intelligence,” a suite of AI-powered features that promise to make the iPhone even smarter. We’re talking about stuff like:
Writing Tools: Need help crafting the perfect email or essay? Apple Intelligence has your back with AI-powered suggestions and summaries. And yes, this is also available on Android, at a price though, so it’s a W for Apple.
Image Generation: Want a unique emoji that looks just like you? No problem! Apple Intelligence can even conjure up images from your wildest descriptions.
Photo Editing Magic: Accidentally captured your ex in the background of a group photo? Apple Intelligence can magically erase them (take that, unwanted memories!). Should I talk about the one that we’ve had, maybe not.
Smart Notifications: Tired of being bombarded with pointless alerts? Apple Intelligence learns your habits and only shows you the notifications that truly matter. Again another win for Apple users 🙂
The Verdict
So, is iOS 18 worth the hype? Well, if you’re an iPhone user who’s been craving more personalization and AI-powered goodies, then absolutely. This update is a game-changer. But if you’re already happy with your current setup, there’s no rush.
And like I said at the beginning of this article, there are more articles about the WWDC coming. In the meantime, let me know what you think of iOS 18 in the comments below!
P.S. Don’t forget to allow notifications for new posts on Tino Talks Tech! And if you found this article helpful, please share it with your friends and leave a comment below. Thanks for reading!
Hey everyone, ready to tackle a debate older than dial-up internet: who makes the BEST smartphone? It’s the age-old clash of the titans: Apple vs. Android. Some folks like to say it’s not really Apple vs. Android, it’s iOS vs. Android – like we’re comparing apples and oranges (pun intended).
But let’s be real, iOS is an Apple exclusive. iOS only comes on iPhones, so in the end, it’s still Team Apple vs. Team Android duking it out in your pocket. But that’s no the point.
Now, before the comment section explodes, let’s get one thing straight: this is a topic that’s been known to end friendships. People get passionate about their phones. And honestly, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The “best” smartphone is the one that best suits your needs and preferences.
But that doesn’t mean we can’t have some fun with the numbers, right? In this article, we’ll dive into the cold, hard and boring data to see who’s really dominating the smartphone scene in 2024. We’ll look at market share, user demographics, top-selling models, and even a bit of the financial side of things. So, grab your popcorn, settle in, and let’s see who’s winning the smartphone war (for now).
The Top 10 Bestsellers
Before we dive into the Apple vs. Android debate, let’s see which specific smartphones are reigning supreme. According to a report by Omdia, these were the top 10 most shipped smartphones in the first half of 2023:
Key Takeaways:
Apple Dominates the Top: Apple snatches the first four spots, highlighting the continued popularity of the iPhone 14 series and the enduring appeal of the iPhone 13.
Premium Appeal: Apple’s higher-priced Pro models outperform the standard iPhone 14, suggesting consumers are willing to invest in premium features and functionality.
Samsung’s Mid-Range Strength: While not topping the list, Samsung secures a solid presence with its Galaxy A series, proving its dominance in the mid-range market with affordable yet feature-rich options.
5G Adoption on the Rise: The presence of several 5G-enabled models from Samsung indicates the growing demand for faster connectivity and future-proof devices.
Older Models Still Relevant: The inclusion of the iPhone 11 demonstrates that older models can still hold their own in the market, likely due to price cuts and continued software support.
This table paints a picture of a dynamic smartphone landscape, where both Apple and Samsung cater to different segments of the market. While Apple excels in the premium segment, Samsung’s strength lies in providing a wide range of options for budget-conscious consumers. The continued success of older models also highlights the importance of ongoing software support and competitive pricing.
The iPhone’s Reach
While Apple may not be the only player in the smartphone arena, its influence is undeniable. Let’s delve deeper into the numbers behind Apple’s loyal following and market dominance, drawing insights from data provided by Demandsage:
Apple Users: A Billion-Strong Legion
Apple boasts a staggering 1.46 billion active iPhone users worldwide as of 2023. This massive user base has grown exponentially over the last decade, with a 230.31% increase since 2013. In the US alone, 153 million people wield iPhones, representing a significant 61% of smartphone users in the country.
Demographics
iPhones resonate with a diverse audience, but certain demographics stand out:
Gender: Women slightly edge out men in iPhone usage, accounting for 31% of users compared to 28% for men. This suggests that Apple’s design and functionality appeal to a broad range of tastes and preferences.
Age: While iPhones are popular across all age groups, they particularly resonate with younger generations. The 25-34 age bracket constitutes the largest segment of iPhone users (23%), followed closely by the 18-24 age group (20%). This could be attributed to Apple’s emphasis on user-friendly interfaces, social media integration, and a strong brand identity that resonates with younger demographics.
Age Group
Percentage of iPhone Users
18-24
20%
25-34
23%
35-44
20%
45-54
16%
55+
21%
Market Share
Apple commands a significant share of the global smartphone market, boasting 28.46% as of 2024. However, its dominance is even more pronounced in the US, where it holds a whopping 59.08% market share. This strong foothold can be attributed to several factors:
Brand Loyalty: Apple has cultivated a loyal customer base that values its ecosystem, design aesthetics, and user experience.
Premium Positioning: Apple’s focus on high-end devices with cutting-edge features has resonated with consumers seeking top-tier smartphones.
Carrier Partnerships: Apple’s strong relationships with US carriers have facilitated widespread availability and attractive pricing for its devices.
My Verdict
Apple’s impressive user base, diverse demographics, and strong market share underscore its position as a dominant force in the smartphone industry. The iPhone’s enduring popularity is a testament to Apple’s ability to innovate, adapt, and cater to evolving consumer demands.
Samsung’s Stronghold
While Apple may hold the crown in the premium market and overall market value, Samsung remains a formidable force in the smartphone world, particularly within the Android ecosystem. Let’s explore the numbers that underscore Samsung’s enduring popularity and market dominance, drawing insights from Tridens Technology:
Samsung’s Global Presence
Samsung boasts a massive user base, with over 1.033 billion people worldwide using Samsung smartphones as of 2023. This translates to a significant portion of the estimated 7.33 billion global smartphone users. In 2022 alone, Samsung shipped approximately 259 million smartphone units worldwide, solidifying its position as a major player in the industry.
Demographics
While global data on Samsung user demographics is limited, we can glean some insights from the US market. As of June 2023:
Age: Samsung’s appeal spans various age groups, but it particularly resonates with older demographics. 36% of users are aged 50 or older, followed by 30% in the 30-49 age range, and 14% under 30. This suggests that Samsung’s user-friendly interface and diverse product range appeal to a wider age spectrum.
Age Group
Percentage of Samsung Users (US)
Under 30
14%
30-49
30%
50+
36%
Gender: Data on gender distribution for Samsung users is not readily available, but the brand’s diverse marketing campaigns and wide range of models suggest that it caters to both men and women equally.
Market Share
Samsung’s market share varies depending on how we look at it:
Overall Smartphone Market: In 2022, Samsung held a respectable 20% share of the global smartphone market. While this placed it behind Apple’s 39%, it still signifies a substantial presence and influence.
Android Market: Within the Android ecosystem, Samsung reigns supreme, commanding a whopping 45.4% market share in 2024. This indicates that nearly half of all Android users worldwide opt for a Samsung device, a testament to the brand’s diverse offerings and strong reputation.
The Galaxy A Series
One of the key drivers behind Samsung’s success is its Galaxy A series. These mid-range smartphones offer a winning combination of affordability, features, and performance, appealing to a broad spectrum of consumers. The Galaxy A14, in particular, stands out as a global bestseller, demonstrating Samsung’s ability to cater to budget-conscious consumers without compromising on quality or innovation.
My Verdict:
While Apple may outshine Samsung in the premium market and overall market value, Samsung’s dominance within the Android ecosystem is undeniable. Its broad range of devices, coupled with its strong brand recognition and commitment to innovation, ensures its continued relevance in the ever-evolving smartphone landscape.
Absolutely! Here’s a section highlighting the generational divide in Apple and Samsung users:
The Generational Divide
The demographics of Apple and Samsung users reveal a fascinating trend: a generational divide. While Apple predominantly attracts younger users, Samsung finds favor with older demographics. This could have significant implications for the future of the smartphone market.
As we saw earlier, the majority of Apple users fall within the 18-34 age bracket, with a combined 43% of users belonging to these younger generations. This suggests that Apple’s brand image, user experience, and ecosystem resonate strongly with younger consumers.
In contrast, Samsung’s user base skews older, with a significant 36% of users in the US aged 50 or above. This indicates that Samsung’s devices may appeal to those seeking user-friendly interfaces, larger displays, and a focus on practicality.
Brand
18-24
25-34
35-44
45-54
55+
Apple
20%
23%
20%
16%
21%
Samsung (US)
14%
30%
–
–
36%
This generational divide raises an intriguing question: Is Apple poised to dominate the future smartphone market as younger generations mature and become the primary consumer base? If current trends continue, it’s possible that Apple’s influence will grow even further in the coming years, while Samsung may need to adapt its strategies to attract and retain younger users.
Of course, this is just speculation, and the smartphone landscape is constantly evolving. However, the current demographic trends offer valuable insights into the potential future of these two tech giants.
Whether you’re a young tech enthusiast or a seasoned smartphone user, the choice between Apple and Samsung ultimately comes down to personal preference, and this is a point I always try to raise every-time I write such articles because it’s great to note that we don’t all like the same things and we have to respect that. But understanding the demographics behind each brand can shed light on their strategies, target audiences, and potential future trajectories in the ever-competitive smartphone market.
You’re absolutely right, my apologies for the confusion! I’ve made the necessary corrections to the table, focusing solely on Android market share values:
The Android World
Within the Android ecosystem, the competition is fierce, with several brands vying for dominance. Let’s take a closer look at the market share percentages for the major players as of Q1 2024:
Brand
Country
Android Market Share (%)
Samsung
South Korea
45.4
Xiaomi
China
14.1
Oppo (including OnePlus)
China
9.9
Vivo
China
8.3
Transsion (iTel, Tecno, infinix)
China
9.9
Google Pixel
USA
4.1
Other
8.3
Key Players and Their Strengths:
Samsung: A long-standing leader, Samsung’s extensive product range caters to all budgets. The Galaxy S series continues to be a flagship favorite, while the A series offers affordability without compromising on features.
Xiaomi: Known for its value-driven devices, Xiaomi has rapidly expanded its market share thanks to its aggressive pricing and innovative features. The Redmi and Poco sub-brands further extend its reach across different price points.
Oppo (including OnePlus): Oppo’s focus on camera technology and fast charging has resonated with consumers, while OnePlus caters to tech enthusiasts seeking high-performance devices. The merger of these brands has further solidified their position in the market.
Vivo: Vivo’s emphasis on design and camera capabilities, particularly for selfies, has helped it gain popularity among younger demographics.
Transsion: This brand has captured a significant share of the African market and other emerging regions with its affordable smartphones tailored to local needs and preferences.
Google Pixel: Google’s Pixel series is gaining traction thanks to its pure Android experience, timely software updates, and exceptional camera performance, especially in computational photography.
Demographics
The Android market is shaped by diverse user demographics and regional preferences:
China: Xiaomi, Oppo, Vivo, and Transsion enjoy a strong foothold in their home market, catering to local tastes with features like localized software and payment options.
India: Samsung and Xiaomi are locked in a fierce battle for dominance, with both brands offering a wide range of affordable devices tailored to the Indian market.
United States: While Apple leads the US market, Samsung holds a significant share among Android users. Google’s Pixel is also gaining momentum, appealing to tech-savvy consumers.
Younger demographics often gravitate towards brands like Transsion, Xiaomi, Oppo, Vivo, and OnePlus, which offer trendy designs and innovative features at competitive prices. Samsung attracts a broader range, while Pixel appeals to tech enthusiasts seeking a pure Android experience.
The Final Verdict
The Android market is a dynamic and ever-evolving landscape, with multiple brands vying for dominance. Samsung currently leads, but the competition is fierce, ensuring a diverse range of options for consumers and continuous innovation in the Android ecosystem.
Conclusion
In the grand scheme of things, while Apple has the largest global market share on it’s own, Android emerges as the undisputed king of the smartphone world with a commanding 70.26% global market share. Within the Android kingdom, Samsung stands tall as the reigning champion, capturing a dominant 45.4% share of the Android market.
While the smartphone landscape is constantly shifting, the current data reveals a clear picture: Android is the most used smartphone operating system worldwide, and Samsung is the leading brand within that ecosystem.
Well, folks, it finally happened. After 14 long years of waiting, the iPad has finally joined the 21st century with its very own built-in calculator app. Yes, you read that right. The device that’s been hailed as a laptop replacement, a creative powerhouse, and a productivity machine, just got the feature that’s been on your grandma’s flip phone since the 90s.
But wait, there’s a twist! Apple’s software chief, Craig Federighi, in an interview with MKBHD, stated that if Apple were to create a calculator for the iPad, it would have to be distinctly great and different from others. It seems they’ve lived up to that promise.
Math Notes
The true star of the show isn’t the basic calculator app itself (though we’re happy it exists). It’s the new “Math Notes” feature that truly sets it apart. This is where the iPad’s Apple Pencil support comes into play, allowing you to scribble down equations and have them magically solved right before your eyes.
It’s almost as if Craig knew this was coming, as Math Notes perfectly embodies his vision for a calculator that’s uniquely iPad. The feature even works within the regular Notes app, making it a versatile tool for students, professionals, and anyone who occasionally needs to do some math on the fly.
The Price of Greatness?
Now, if you don’t own an Apple Pencil, you might be wondering if you’ll need to shell out the big bucks for this fancy stylus just to use Math Notes. While Apple primarily presented the feature as an Apple Pencil experience, it’s unclear whether or not you’ll be able to use your finger or other styluses for the same functionality.
WWDC 2024: A Story for Another Day
Speaking of in-depth reviews, we’ll also be diving deep into everything else announced at WWDC 2024, including the ability to finally move apps around your iPhone home screen, and as team Android we’ll stay quiet about this one😹. But that, my friends, is a story for another day. We’ll have to wait for an in-depth review (coming soon!) to find out more.
For now, let’s just revel in the fact that the iPad finally has a calculator…
Classifieds have been around for a very long time now, and they just might be the oldest marketplace we have in the country. Let’s take a deep dive into what makes Classifieds by Web Dev a unique and valuable platform for Zimbabweans.
UI (User Interface)
Navigating the Classifieds site is a breeze. The design is intuitive and visually appealing, with a clean layout that makes finding what you need straightforward. Categories are well-organized, and the search function is robust, allowing users to filter results effectively. Whether you’re looking for housing, groceries, the site’s user-friendly interface ensures you can find what you need without hassle. The site is packed with content, making it an ideal marketplace for you to shop. The variety of products available is one of the platform’s strong points, providing users with numerous options to choose from. One of the standout features of Classifieds is that the site is not filled with annoying ads. Instead, they have their own marketing service where people can pay for ad slots. This system is a great advantage as opposed to using Google Ads, as it ensures that the ads are relevant and non-intrusive. This also helps keep the site clean and user-friendly, enhancing the overall browsing experience.
Performance
The site’s performance is impressive, especially for its size. Loading times are quick, and the elements on the page load faster than many other marketplace websites. According to Google Pagespeed Insights, Classifieds scores well, meaning users won’t experience frustrating delays while browsing or making purchases. This performance edge is crucial for maintaining a pleasant user experience.
Market Size
The platform boasts a large and active user base, with many buyers and sellers regularly engaging in transactions. This extensive market size ensures that you’re likely to find what you’re looking for, whether it’s a rare item or something more commonplace. The bustling activity on the site also means that sellers have a good chance of reaching a wide audience.
Exclusive Feature: Dating Platform
This is a Classifieds exclusive. I mean, we have seen others like Zimjolo try to do it and yes, I did mention this before in my previous article, but Classifieds really did it. It’s impressive. And like I mentioned before, the dating platform isn’t that famous, and I don’t think it will be because of how we do things here in Zimbabwe, but a great thanks to Classifieds for trying. It’s sort of like drifting away from their purpose, but it shows their willingness to innovate and try new things.
Conclusion
Classifieds is one of the marketplace websites we must utilize completely as Zimbabweans. The site’s safe, fast, and fully packed with products to buy from various sellers. Its user-friendly interface, strong performance, and extensive market size make it a top choice for online shopping. While the exclusive dating platform might not be a hit, the effort to diversify is commendable. As we continue to support and use platforms like Classifieds, we contribute to a more vibrant and connected marketplace in Zimbabwe and soon enough.
Today, I want to talk about a significant change in the Zimbabwean online shopping scene, specifically concerning the Pindula Marketplace, and yes, this is not the first time. As we’re restarting the Zimbabwean Marketplace website series, I thought it would be great to restart with the ones we covered before. So some of you might remember it as a bustling hub for all sorts of goods, from clothing and electronics to homeware and more and like I said, I wrote an article about ‘that’ Pindula Marketplace. Well, those days are gone. Let’s dive into what’s happened to Pindula Marketplace and how it’s affecting us all.
The Old Pindula Marketplace
For those who aren’t familiar, the Pindula Marketplace used to be a vibrant platform where you could find a wide range of products. It was like our very own Amazon, sort of :). Sellers from all over Zimbabwe listed their items, and buyers had the convenience of shopping for anything and everything from the comfort of their homes. It was particularly handy for those who wanted to support local businesses. You could find unique items and get them delivered right to your doorstep. Ah, the good old days!
What’s Changed?
Fast forward to today, and Pindula Marketplace has undergone a radical transformation. Now, you can only buy gadgets, and they’re limited to a few specific brands: Samsung, itel, and Tecno. This drastic change happened last year, but I’m only writing about it now because I’m restarting my Zimbabwe Marketplace Series, revisiting platforms I had reviewed the first time around.
Here’s a breakdown of what’s new:
Limited Product Range: Gone are the days when you could browse through a variety of products. Now, it’s strictly gadgets from Samsung, itel, and Tecno.
Simplified Purchase Process: You no longer need to create an account. To buy a gadget, all you need to do is enter your name, phone number, and address. However, there’s a catch – they only deliver within Harare. This lack of support for other cities is quite frustrating.
Payment Methods: You can pay using EcoCash, OneMoney, InnBucks, or opt for cash on delivery. A $5 delivery fee applies to every order.
Final Thoughts
The new Pindula Marketplace feels like a shadow of its former self. While it’s great that you can easily buy gadgets from top brands, the lack of variety, limited delivery area, and the overall reduction in service are hard to overlook. It’s a disappointing turn of events for what was once a great marketplace.
Let’s hope that in the future, Pindula will consider broadening its offerings again and bringing back the vibrant marketplace that many of us came to rely on.
Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below, and don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for more tech updates. Also, if you haven’t yet, enable notifications so you never miss out on the latest posts from Tino Talks Tech!
Remember my earlier articles about the top e-commerce platforms in Zimbabwe? Well, I’m back for another round, but this time, I’m taking a deeper dive.
Why the change of heart? Let’s just say that I got complacent and ended up drifting away from my objective, and I wasn’t able to give these platforms the attention they deserve. But I’ve been following the e-commerce scene closely, and it’s clear that things have been evolving rapidly. New players have emerged, existing ones have evolved, and the overall landscape is far more dynamic than it was before.
So, consider this a reboot of my original series. Over the next few weeks, I’ll be revisiting some of the platforms I covered previously and introducing you to some new ones. I’ll be looking at everything from user experience and product selection to payment options and delivery services. And of course, I’ll be sharing my honest opinions and insights along the way.
To ensure a great assessment, I’ll be using a set of criteria to evaluate each platform(if applicable):
UI (User Interface): How easy is it to navigate the site? Is the design intuitive and visually appealing?
Performance: Does the site load quickly? Are there any glitches or bugs?
Accessibility: Is the site accessible to users with disabilities?
Market Size: How many buyers and sellers are active on the platform?
Product Selection: Is there a wide variety of products available?
Customer Support: Is customer support responsive and helpful?
Pricing: Are the fees and commissions reasonable?
I’m excited to embark on this journey of rediscovering Zimbabwe’s e-commerce landscape. I hope you’ll join me as I share my findings and insights. And as always, if you have a marketplace you’d like me to review or additional criteria you’d like me to consider, feel free to reach out through the contact form on this site.
Alright, let’s get this straight from the get-go: I’m not a fan of WhatsApp mods at all as I clearly reflected in this article. They can be shady, insecure, and frankly, more trouble than they’re worth. But hey, this is for educational purposes only, so let’s see how you can sideload a WhatsApp mod alongside the original one using the companion device feature.
What You’ll Need:
Two smartphones (one for executing the setup).
The original WhatsApp app installed on your primary phone.
A WhatsApp mod installed on the same phone.
Steps to Follow:
1. Setting Up Split Screen
To avoid the QR code from reloading, you’ll need to use the split-screen feature on your phone. Here’s how:
Open both WhatsApp apps (the original and the mod) in split-screen mode.
This ensures that the QR code stays visible and doesn’t reload when you switch between the two apps.
2. Generating and Capturing the QR Code
Open the modded WhatsApp in the split-screen view.
Go to the “Companion Device” section.
Take a screenshot of the QR code.
Alternatively, use another device to take a picture of the QR code (this is usually faster and more reliable).
3. Linking the Modded WhatsApp
Open the original WhatsApp and navigate to the “Linked Devices” section.
Tap on “Link a Device” to generate a QR code.
Use the original WhatsApp to scan the QR code from the screenshot or the picture you took.
Tips for a Smooth Process:
Make sure both WhatsApp apps are in split-screen mode to prevent the QR code from reloading.
If using a second device to capture the QR code, ensure the picture is clear and the QR code is fully visible.
Final Thoughts
While this method allows you to run both the original and a modded version of WhatsApp on the same phone, remember that using WhatsApp mods can compromise your data security. They’re not officially supported, and there’s always a risk involved. Use this method wisely and at your own risk.
Let’s dive into some Mac shortcuts that’ll make you feel like you’re hacking the Matrix, even if you’re just organizing your cat pictures. Here are 100 Mac shortcuts to boost your productivity:
Basic Navigation
Command (⌘) + Space – Open Spotlight.
Command (⌘) + Tab – Switch between open apps.
Command (⌘) + H – Hide the current app.
Command (⌘) + Option + H – Hide all other apps.
Command (⌘) + Q – Quit the current app.
Command (⌘) + Option + Esc – Force quit apps.
Command (⌘) + N – New Finder window.
Window Management
Command (⌘) + M – Minimize the front window.
Command (⌘) + Option + M – Minimize all windows.
Command (⌘) + W – Close the front window.
Command (⌘) + Option + W – Close all windows.
Command (⌘) + Control + F – Enter/exit full screen.
Mission Control
Control + Up Arrow – Open Mission Control.
Control + Down Arrow – Show all windows of the current app.
Control + Left/Right Arrow – Switch between desktops.
Control + Command (⌘) + F – Toggle full screen mode.
Finder
Command (⌘) + Shift + N – New folder.
Command (⌘) + Delete – Move to Trash.
Command (⌘) + Shift + Delete – Empty Trash.
Command (⌘) + I – Get info.
Command (⌘) + Option + I – Show Inspector.
Command (⌘) + D – Duplicate.
Command (⌘) + E – Eject.
Command (⌘) + F – Find.
Command (⌘) + K – Connect to Server.
File Management
Command (⌘) + C – Copy.
Command (⌘) + X – Cut.
Command (⌘) + V – Paste.
Command (⌘) + Z – Undo.
Command (⌘) + Shift + Z – Redo.
Command (⌘) + A – Select All.
Command (⌘) + T – New tab.
Command (⌘) + O – Open.
Command (⌘) + R – Show original.
Text Editing
Command (⌘) + B – Bold.
Command (⌘) + I – Italic.
Command (⌘) + U – Underline.
Command (⌘) + T – Show fonts.
Command (⌘) + Shift + K – Spelling and Grammar.
System Preferences
Command (⌘) + , (comma) – Open preferences for the front app.
Command (⌘) + Option + Control + P – Open Print dialog.
Ready to crank up your productivity with some Windows shortcuts? Yeah, you could keep clicking around like a caveman, but who wants to do that when you can zip through tasks like a wizard? Here are 100 Windows shortcuts that’ll make you the master of your PC, literally 😉
Essential Navigation
Win – Opens the Start Menu.
Win + D – Show/hide the desktop.
Alt + Tab – Switch between open apps.
Win + Tab – Open Task View.
Win + L – Lock your PC.
Win + E – Open File Explorer.
Win + X – Open the Quick Link menu.
Window Management
Win + Up Arrow – Maximize window.
Win + Down Arrow – Minimize window.
Win + Left Arrow – Snap window to the left.
Win + Right Arrow – Snap window to the right.
Win + Shift + Up Arrow – Stretch window to top and bottom of the screen.
Win + Shift + Left/Right Arrow – Move window to another monitor.
Win + Ctrl + F4 – Close the current virtual desktop.
Taskbar Shortcuts
Win + 1, 2, 3, … – Open the app pinned to the taskbar in that position.
Shift + Click on a taskbar button – Open a new instance of the app.
Ctrl + Shift + Click on a taskbar button – Open the app as an administrator.
System Commands
Win + R – Open the Run dialog box.
Win + Pause – Open the System Properties.
Ctrl + Shift + Esc – Open Task Manager.
Alt + F4 – Close the active item or exit the active app.
Accessibility
Win + Plus (+) – Open Magnifier and zoom in.
Win + Minus (-) – Zoom out with Magnifier.
Win + Esc – Exit Magnifier.
Win + U – Open Ease of Access Center.
Win + Enter – Open Narrator.
File Management
Ctrl + C – Copy selected item.
Ctrl + X – Cut selected item.
Ctrl + V – Paste selected item.
Ctrl + Z – Undo an action.
Ctrl + Y – Redo an action.
Ctrl + A – Select all items in a document or window.
F2 – Rename selected item.
Ctrl + Shift + N – Create a new folder.
Alt + Enter – Open the Properties for the selected item.
Web Browsing (Microsoft Edge)
Ctrl + T – Open a new tab.
Ctrl + W – Close the current tab.
Ctrl + Shift + T – Reopen the last closed tab.
Ctrl + L – Focus the address bar.
Ctrl + Shift + Delete – Open the Clear browsing data options.
Ctrl + D – Add the current site to favorites.
Text Editing
Ctrl + Right Arrow – Move the cursor to the beginning of the next word.
Ctrl + Left Arrow – Move the cursor to the beginning of the previous word.
Ctrl + Down Arrow – Move the cursor to the beginning of the next paragraph.
Ctrl + Up Arrow – Move the cursor to the beginning of the previous paragraph.
Ctrl + Shift + Left/Right Arrow – Select a block of text one word at a time.
Ctrl + Home – Move to the beginning of the document.
Ctrl + End – Move to the end of the document.
Search and Cortana
Win + S – Open Search.
Win + Q – Open Cortana in listening mode.
Win + C – Open Cortana in listening mode (if enabled).
Display Settings
Win + P – Open the Project dialog box.
Win + Ctrl + Shift + B – Restart your graphics driver.
Win + Shift + P – Open presentation mode settings.
Emoji and Special Characters
Win + Period (.) – Open emoji panel.
Win + Semicolon (;) – Open emoji panel.
Clipboard
Win + V – Open clipboard history.
Windows Snap Assist
Win + Z – Open Snap layouts.
Win + Alt + Up Arrow – Snap window to the top half.
Win + Alt + Down Arrow – Snap window to the bottom half.
Game Bar
Win + G – Open Game Bar.
Win + Alt + R – Start/stop recording.
Win + Alt + PrtScn – Take a screenshot of your game.
Command Prompt
Ctrl + Shift + Plus (+) – Zoom in Command Prompt.
Ctrl + Shift + Minus (-) – Zoom out Command Prompt.
Ctrl + C – Copy selected text.
Ctrl + V – Paste text.
File Explorer Shortcuts
Alt + D – Select the address bar.
Ctrl + E – Select the search box.
Ctrl + F – Select the search box.
Ctrl + Shift + E – Display all folders above the selected folder.
Ctrl + Shift + W – Close the current window.
Miscellaneous
Win + I – Open Settings.
Win + K – Open the Connect pane.
Win + O – Lock device orientation.
Win + T – Cycle through apps on the taskbar.
Win + M – Minimize all windows.
Win + Shift + M – Restore minimized windows.
Win + B – Focus the notification area.
Win + V – Open the clipboard history.
Win + H – Open dictation feature.
Win + Period (.) – Open emoji panel.
Win + Spacebar – Switch keyboard layout.
Win + Ctrl + Enter – Open Narrator.
Win + PrtScn – Capture a screenshot and save it.
Alt + PrtScn – Capture a screenshot of the active window.
Win + Shift + S – Open Snip & Sketch to capture a screenshot.
Win + Shift + V – Cycle through notifications.
Win + Alt + D – Open date and time.
Ctrl + Shift + Esc – Open Task Manager.
Ctrl + Alt + Delete – Open security options.
Alt + Space – Open the shortcut menu for the active window.
Alt + Underlined letter – Perform the menu command (or other underlined command).
Ctrl + Alt + Tab – Use the arrow keys to switch between all open apps.
Ctrl + Arrow Keys – Resize the Start Menu.
Ctrl + Shift + Escape – Open Task Manager directly.
Shift + Delete – Delete the selected item permanently without moving it to the Recycle Bin.
Alt + Esc – Cycle through items in the order in which they were opened.
And there you have it! A hundred shortcuts to turn you into a Windows power user. Now, go forth and impress everyone with your lightning-fast navigation skills. Or at least save yourself from a few extra clicks here and there. Either way, you’re winning.
