Details of the MapIT event.

MapIT, together with it's Kenyan partners, Integrat, will be hosting this event on Monday 25th March 2013 at the Fairview Hotel, Nairobi.This event is aimed at developers and Business Development Managers who would like to learn more about location based services. You will be able to learn all about the new features available on deCarta's LBS mapping platform covering both web and mobile applications whilst focusing on the latest version of its JavaScript API.
Leveraging cutting-edge HTML5 technologies developers will learn how to develop once and deploy
everywhere with the cross platform device API that will allow for building applications that run seamlessly on tablets, smartphones and desktop devices. DeCarta's platform supports some of the largest LBS services in the world and is available as a cloud based service or as a self-hosted solution.
This is a day not to be missed.

If you currently utilise web or mobile LBS applications or are interested in learning about these services their technology platform is perfectly suited to meet your requirements. Users of our LBS platform will receive support from mapIT's & Integrat’s support teams, quality mapping data, full control of your content and an online free DevZone portal for 24/7 support. Most importantly you will have free access to their software during the development phase of your application.

To register email your full details to wanja@ke.integrat.co.za
Conference Details
Date: Monday, 25 March 2013
Venue: Fairview Hotel, Upper Hill Nairobi, Kenya
Cost: USD100 (Kshs 8,500) per delegate
Agenda
9:30 - 12:00: Web and Mobile Maps API
They will cover the fundamentals of maps, map overlays, routing, address search and other advanced LBS features including local content search. They will also cover native and mobile LBS applications on several mobile operating systems and mobile browsers. They will also have three clients presenting on their applications.
12:00 - 13:00 Lunch
13:00 - 17:00 Inter-active Session & Competition
A license key to access the deCarta platform will be provided. The time slot will be allocated to developing your app for the competition. mapIT specialists will be on hand to help.
Places are limited, book today to avoid disappointment!

My MWEA (Mobile Web East Africa) experience.

The MWEA 2013 technology event went down last week at the Southern Sun Mayfair Hotel. It ran from 19th of February til the 21st. I got to attend it for one day but was so bummed since i wish i had attended the conference on all the days. The main focus for this year was taking Monetisation and content creation dialogue to the next level.

There were several speakers from world renowned organisations that shared priceless information concerning trivial matters that every budding or established developer should put in mind. The sessions were interactive as well because of the round table format and the 15 minutes break that was offered to discuss and internalize on what the speaker had presented. Not only did it offer a chance to exchange ideas on trivial marketing issues, it also offered an awesome platform for networking and meeting new people in tech industry because most of the attendees were major key players from different major tech organisations throughout Africa . The open bar after the Wednesday session was a particular delight :)

Some of the key aspects that were discussed during the Mobile Marketing East Africa Focus day(19th) included highlighting major factors for monitoring and measuring mobile web marketing campaigns and how to go about conceptualization, construction and execution. It also focused on how to apply creative and design principles to mobile marketing and its fusion with responsive design especially in matters to do with digital marketing. With relevant case studies such as Guinness VIP, presentations were made to show how mobile has, and can enrich the presence of brands. Lastly, the speakers explored on future considerations that can be implemented to increase impact and deliverance.

The Main Conference day offered an array of insight to me. Some of the key issues that were highlighted include suggestions on how creativity can contribute to the tech mobile platform and if the more creative and traditional industries can intertwine with the technology industry. One speaker talked about how creativity can be used as a catalyst for disruptive innovation and creation through citing very helpful case studies. Another key highlight was the subject on distribution and entertainment in relation to the mobile savvy consumer with relevant examples from key companies such as Buni t.v, IROKO partners and Retroviral Digital Communications.

This is just but a brief summary of some of the key aspects that made me a bit more insightful than i was before. Hopefully, i will be able to share each and every aspect that i have talked about in detail to spread the insight. It was simply awesome and i have no idea why i have never attended the previous conferences. Looking forward to next year's Event and i hope to see you there.

ps: The venue was spectacular.

Some little fun!

Try this fun exercise. Stare at this picture for 30 seconds then stare at a blank wall. blink continuously for about 6-7 times and be amazed at what you see!!

The techie genious behind Beyonce's electric perfomances.

If you happened to watch Beyonce's performance at the Superbowl and during the Billboard Awards, you would be taken aback not only by her strength, high energy levels,flexibility, incredible voice, but also by the graphics play that takes place in the background. A while back, critics were on her case because the videography was very similar to that of the Italian pop star Lorella Cuccarini. Beyonce says she was inspired but critics say she lacked originality by using someone else's idea. Whichever the case, the tribe inc. company is to blame for all this. Kenzo Digital and Rodgers Bruce are some of the masterminds. They did both productions and did not variate them much. These media artists focus on playing with video art on white screens, using digital dancers, interactive objects and frontal projections. quite spectacular. have a look:

In case you missed both performances, have a look at the awesome effect of technology:

Here is one from Lorella Cuccarini:

Kick boredom out of the bathroom!

Do you get bored while you pay the bathroom a visit? Don't worry, many people do! For a boredom-free bathroom visit with a mix of technology..here’s introducing the Pedestal Stand for iPad from CTA Digital! Entertainment at its best.

The Pedestal Stand is meant to aid your use of the Apple ipad while you do whatever you do in the toilet. Its made of chrome, has a heavy base (7.5 inches / 19 cm in diameter) to prevent toppling. 

The Pedestal Stand weighs 3.3kg minus the ipad.

It has a 10-inch (25 cm) bendable gooseneck stand that holds your iPad securely in place/position. 

 The neck is adjustable to any viewing angle and the stand reaches upto 81cm in height.

The toilet roll holder is optional and a replacement in the form of a cupholder is in progress.

For all those who want to kick the boredom out of the bathroom, the Pedestal Stand is the thing for you (of course plus an ipad if you don't have one).

Don't worry, the stand is compatible with the ipad 2 and iPad (3^rd gen and 4th gen) and goes for a mere Kenya Shillings 3,950/= online (minus shipping costs)!

A boredom free Bathroom!

Smartphones: DON'TS and DO’s of the office

Work habits: Don’ts

• Don't download too many addictive apps to your phone. I can imagine if your boss were to find you by the water cooler playing “Angry Birds” minutes after you went to the ladies room.

• Don’t have adult content on your phone – The embarrassment the bubbly secretary might cause you when she accidentally plays an x-rated movie on your phone while browsing for ringtones for her newly acquired Smartphone doesn't bear thinking about..

• Don’t have push notifications turned on – The sound of your phone vibrating every two minutes gets to peoples nerves eventually

• Don’t have sensitive data saved on your phone – The boss wouldn’t really mind if you lost your phone with photos of you in Mombasa on holiday...but try losing your phone with confidential work-related documents on it!

• Don’t have offensive ringtones – Here, you might risk upsetting the boss whole at all times thought you were a “jubilee” person whereas your ringtone suggests that you are “corded”

Work habits: Do’s

• Do use collaborative apps like Office suite, Quick office etc, sync your outlook and access mobile VPN. Chances are, if you forget something, no need to panic, normality is restored by your Smartphone.

• Do make use of the flexible working that the portable communication allows. This means that even if you are out of the office attending a meeting etc, you are not really “cut off”. You can still respond to your pretty secretary’s questions and make decisions

• Do use your Smartphone as a Wi-Fi hotspot. You don’t have to be confined by the length of the Ethernet cables, be creative, think!!!!

• Do use the maps and location services on your phone not only to tell the location of your spouse. You can use it to make sure you never get lost on your way to a meeting at some weird location!

• Do maintain your improved posture. Now that most of you don’t have to carry around your 3 tonnes laptops just to access Wi-Fi at the coffee shop, your backs should return to the normal upright posture now!

Celebrity Techies and Investors!!

Have a look at celebrities who showcase their inner gadget geek, endorse technology products, work as creative directors of tech brands as well as put investments in them:

• The irresistibly handsome and tech savvy Ashton Kutcher has been looking to invest in the Silicon valley while he still has investments in companies such as foursquare and Skype. The two and a half men actor also started the A grade initiative, a tech investing fund among many more. 

• Will I Am 's love of technology is quite evident from his music videos.he has a range of tech products that he has designed for iPhone and recently launched the i am++ that transforms the iPhone to an impressive 14 mega pixel Camera. He Is currently the Creative Director at Intel. 

• Some of the technology start ups that lady Gaga has invested in include Turntable f.m which is a music sharing platform and Backplane, the celebrity social site for her little monsters where she coupled up with Google to have it launched. she has also been the creatives director at Polaroid and even designed a printer for them. 

• Serena Williams, Leonardo DiCaprio and Lance Armstrong are among the many investors who have invested in the Israeli based company Mobli that allows users to share videos and pictures of their daily experiences.

• The Adorable Justin Bieber has a number of gadgets linked to his name such as the singing tooth brush and beats audio headphones. He also has investments in Spotify, a music sharing company. 

• Remember MC Hammer? he frequently attends the tech meetings at Silicon Valley with the likes of Ron Conway and was among the advisers during the start up of dancejam.com. He and his team are working on a new search engine; WireDoo.

• The Dr. Dre's beats by Dre are a huge hit throughout the world. Some of the celebrities he has worked with to endorse his products include 50 Cent and One Direction. Usain bolt endorsed the Ludacris' soul Headphones

• Kim Kardashian is an online co founder of an online shoe subscription company that has grossed over $60 Million since its first launch.

• Alicia keys was unveiled as the new creative director during the launch of Blackberry 10. For more on blackberry 10, click here. 

AFRIAPPS : Apps by & for Africa!!

Developers and techies should have a look at the Afriapps site. it offers a lot of extensive and relevant information concerning various applications that are African oriented and have been specifically made for Africans by Africans. All the games, for instance, are extremely familiar with the African lifestyle and go in line to showcase matters to do with culture, heritage, ways of life as well and the full African experience. Getting reviews of applications that have impacted the society strongly gives the best insight for upcoming developers. Some of the features apps include KopoKopo, Mocality and Anza.

For a developer willing to break into the market, it offers a very good platform that helps you to showcase your work. All you need to do is forward your application to them and if it fits the right criteria, they will feature it ensuring you get both 'airplay' and market. It is also a resourceful place where you can apply for or post job vacancies in different fields of ICT.

It offers a lot of inspiration since it regularly holds interviews with the movers and shakers in the tech world all over the continent. Reading their stories and experiences is not only enlightening, it offers great advice on how to develop technology related careers. Several resources in line with this can be accessed as well.

All in all, it is a site worth checking out!! Have a look at it and have a feel of how technology in Africa is revolutionizing.

Blackberry 10 Making a Comeback!!

It was exciting yesterday when blackberry released the blackberry Z10 that runs on a new Blackberry 10 platform. A comeback for blackberry that aims at transforming mobile communications as a whole as well as its business brand. IOS and Android have dominated the market for the past five years and one wonders if the launch of this new OS is a bit too late.

Unlike its predecessors that ran on RIM, BB10 platform was specifically designed to run completely on touchscreen with new user experience. So, what makes it different?

• A software keyboard that swipes words to the keyboards and enables prediction and mimics the physical version experience.
• The BB Hub is a universal inbox that offers you a chance to get all your messages from emails, twitter, Facebook, linked In which can be navigated through swiping because it does not have a physical home or back button.
• BBM now allows video calling because of the BBM video and voice features. 
• BBM balance that allows users to separate their personal and work life.
• BB world store that has over 70,000 applications for its users. Not only does it have apps, but video and music as well with popular apps such as twitter, angry birds, Facebook and Skype available.

Specifications overview:

Design	Size	Height 130 mm / 5.12 in Width 65.6 mm / 2.58 in Depth 9 mm / 0.35 in
	Weight	137.5g / 4.85 oz
	Navigation	All-touch screen, with intuitive gesture based navigation
	Keyboard	On screen BlackBerry Keyboard (portrait/landscape), featuring contextual auto-correction, next-word prediction, and a personalized learning engine that gets to know the way you type
	Dedicated keys	Volume Up/Down, Mute, Lock (for Power On/Off)
Display	Resolution	1280 x 768 resolution, at 356 PPI 24-bit color depth
	Screen size	4.2" diagonal 15:9 aspect ratio
OS & desktop software	Operating system	BlackBerry 10 OS
	Desktop software	BlackBerry® Link software for your computer to enable synchronization of data and media
Performance	Processor	Dual Core 1.5 GHz
	Memory	2GB RAM 16GB Flash
	Expandable memory	Removable microSD memory card – slot under battery door (Up to 64 GB)
	USB Ports	USB 2.0 high speed port – allows charging and data synchronization of the device with a USB cable
	HDMI Port	Micro HDMI for connection to your HDTV or projector
Power	Battery	1800mAH removable battery
	Battery Life	Up to 10 hours talk time (3G) Up to 13 days standby time *Note: Battery life claims are for Model STL100-3
Camera & video	Rear camera	8 megapixel auto-focus camera Back Side Illumination for better low-light performance 5-element F2.2 lens Dedicated ISP (image signal processor) with 64MB frame buffer Flash, continuous and touch to focus, image stabilization Enhanced Super Resolution Digital Zoom (5x) 1080p HD video recording 4 DOF (Degrees of freedom) video stabilization Time Shift mode for pinpointing and adjusting individual elements of your picture
	Front camera	2 megapixel fixed-focus camera Image and video stabilization 3x digital zoom 720p HD video recording
Multimedia	Image formats	BMP, WBMP, JPG, GIF, PNG, TIFF, SGI, TGA
	Audio & video formats	3GP, 3GP2, M4A, M4V, MOV, MP4, MKV, MPEG-4, AVI, ASF, WMV, WMA, MP3, MKA, AAC, AMR, F4V, WAV, MP2PS, MP2TS, AWB, OGG, FLAC
	Audio & video encoding/decoding	H.264, MPEG-4, H.263, AAC-LC, AAC+, eAAC, MP3, PCM, Xvid, AMR-NB, WMA 9/10, WMA10 professional, WMA-LL, VC-1, VP6, SPARK, PCM, MPEG-2, MJPEG (mov), AC-3, AMR-WB, QCELP, FLAC, VORBIS
Apps	Pre-loaded apps	BlackBerry® Hub, Contacts, BlackBerry® Browser, BlackBerry® Calendar, BBM, Text Messages, BlackBerry® World, BlackBerry® Remember, Docs To Go™, Pictures, Music, Videos, Story Maker, Facebook®1, Twitter®1, LinkedIn®1, Foursquare®, BlackBerry® Maps, Games, YouTube®, Voice Control, Weather, Clock, Calculator, Compass, File Manager, Box, BlackBerry® Connect for Dropbox, Print To Go, Smart Tags, Settings, Adobe® Reader, Phone, Camera/Video Camera/Time Shift, Setup, Help, SIM Toolkit, Search
Security		Password protection, screen lock, and sleep mode BlackBerry® Balance™ offering dedicated profiles to keep work and personal data separate and secure
Alerts & notifications		Tone Vibrate On-screen or LED indicator
Voice input/output		Integrated hands-free speakerphone Hands-free headset capable Bluetooth headset capable
Network & connectivity	Network bands	Z10 Up to 4G LTE Quad band LTE 2, 5, 4, 17 (700/850/1700/1900 MHz) Tri band HSPA+ 1, 2, 5/6 (850/1900/2100 MHz) Quad band HSPA+ 1, 2, 4, 5/6, (850/1700/1900/2100 MHz) Quad band EDGE (850/900/1800/1900 MHz) Z10 (4G - Verizon) Up to 4G LTE LTE Band-13 (700 MHz) CDMA Cell-band and PCS-band (800/1900 MHz) WCDMA Band-1 and Band-8 (2100/900 MHz) GSM/EDGE Quad Bands (850/900/1800/1900 MHz)
	Wi-Fi®	802.11 a/b/g/n 2.4 GHz / 5 GHz 4G Mobile Hotspot
	Bluetooth®	Bluetooth 4.0 Low Energy (LE)
	GPS	Assisted, Autonomous and Simultaneous GPS Preloaded with BlackBerry Maps application
	NFC	BlackBerry® Tag with NFC technology enables communication between BlackBerry smartphones and other NFC-enabled devices with a tap
Sensors	Advanced Sensors	Accelerometer Magnetometer Proximity sensor Gyroscope Ambient light sensor
Accessibility		BlackBerry® Magnify, for customers with partial vision - Learn more Adjustable screen brightness, scalable fonts Teletypewriter (TTY) Support

THE ROLE OF POLITICS IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF KONZA CITY

Last week, the president launched the Konza Technopolis during the ground breaking ceremony that was held at Malili, Machakos. This was a significant step in the launching of the project since it made it cease from being just but a mere proposal and actually brought it to life. The phenomenal goal behind it is to ensure that this ICT Park buds an industrialized economy that makes Kenya the ultimate technical hub for many investors who want to bring in local intelligence and a bit of physical presence to the local African market. The project being a private and public partnership, a lot of international investment is necessary because the government will majorly handle matters to do with infrastructure and land allocation (the 5000 acre piece of land). Politics play a huge role on deciding the manner in which the project will sail through.

There are several benefits that come along with this project. Kenya is at a strategic time where its economic liberalization offers opportunity for such commendable growth. Not to forget other key factors such as the revolutionary Mpesa that offers its users the opportunity to spend, transfer, save and most recently get loans just by using their cell phones. The rise of incubation centers has also offered a conducive environment for innovation in the ICT sector with ample research resources and venues of discussion and interactivity among technology enthusiasts.

This project aims at creating at least 200,000 jobs; 80,000 of which will be created in the first phase of development. Most of the beneficiaries are in ICT, transporting and real estate whereby suppliers of building materials such as cement and steel will be essential. Having the idea of spending 850 billion to eventually set up 200,000 jobs through a period of 17 years putting in mind how sluggish government funding can be may not prove to be such an appealing and cost effective venture. This is why international investments are trivial for this idea to bear fruit.

An impressive 250 applications for investments have already been received ranging from multimillion companies such as Safaricom and Huawei, to entities such as banking and financial institutions, shopping malls and international education institutions. With the ground breaking, 18 investors had already wished to start whereas 30 planned to do so after the elections scheduled for March, one of the major reasons Kenyans should anticipate to take part in fair elections void of any form of corruption, biasness and violence.

The choice of leaders we choose is important as well. Countries such as Zimbabwe and Iran suffered from huge losses due to sanctions that were laid upon them. A conscious voter should not put the future of their country in shambles by heading to the ballot box and appointing an individual who faces charges of crime against humanity whether falsely accused or not. It just doesn’t make any sense. While some may argue that the West no longer has a hold on us, consider that pure gibberish. Another school of thought may argue that America and Europe investments are not crucial as compared to those from the Middle East such as China. However, realizing that China will take part more in the construction bit while the States and European countries  will deal with data processing will shade more light on the issue.

Relying on the Middle East as the only source of international investment does not make sense, even without having to do the math. All their transactions are done with the American dollar currency because of the connections with the international banking and wiring systems. Nowhere to run baby!! And what makes us so sure that China will risk the chance of appearing to show no recognition to the ICC authority just to stay in business with us after sanctions have been declared upon us?

Never before have we had the chance to carve our own future so blatantly. We should choose our leaders with a lot of insight. I would like to see Konza grow, and maybe let my kid know that I was there when it was all but a dream. Wouldn’t you? Take charge and practice good judgment and peace. Someone wise once said that the eyes are usually the windows to the soul, and personally, I would not trust a bloodshot eyed president to handle the affairs of this country. Would you?