Pakistan’s first-ever Inter-University eSports tournament, Free Fire Campus Championship’s Grand Final steals the spotlight.

       

Free Fire Pakistan’s most recent introduction in Esports Competitions FFCC, the Free Fire Campus Championship was Pakistan’s first inter-university Esports competition to be held on a National Stage. The Grand Final was held on the 20th of March in Karachi at Ramada plaza. Last year, Free Fire had announced Pakistan’s first-ever Esports Scholarship, under their Campus Challenge competition, which took place across 9 different universities in Pakistan.

Free Fire Campus Championship 2022 took place across 5 major cities of Pakistan, namely, Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, Bahawalpur & Peshawar in 12 different universities. The winning team from each University progressed to the Grand Final Event held on 20th March where the contestants competed for a Scholarship prize pool worth PKR 2,000,000.

The winning team receiving PKR 700,000 was from City University Peshawar, with the team from Comstats following up. Registration desks went live across universities as students played the qualifier tournament to be crowned as their University’s champions. The winning teams went on to represent their University on the National Stage where they compete for a scholarship worth up to PKR 700,000 each. The Grand Final event mesmerized spectators with an incredible light show and performance featuring the famous Young Stunners.

Commenting on the occasion, Zafeer Khan, Esport & Community Manager said, “I’m glad to see FFCC garner such a great response at these Universities. These grass root efforts provide us extreme motivation when we’re able to see the passion students have for Esports in Pakistan first hand. We saw this during the overwhelming response from our Campus Challenge and how much these Scholarship opportunities really meant to these Students. We’re here to stay- our community is growing everyday, the future for Esports in Pakistan is bright”

Free Fire is also behind FFPL, Pakistan’s First Professional Esports League, FFPL III Grand Finale will take place on the 27th of March in Lahore, where the final 12 teams compete for a grand prize pool of PKR 10,000,000 & the chance to represent Pakistan in FFWS, the largest Free Fire tournament in the world, held later this year in Singapore with a grand prize pool worth $2 Million.

Beaconhouse School System revives traditional games with nationwide ‘Indigenous Sports Week’

              

Beaconhouse, the country’s largest network of private educational institutions, has successfully concluded its week-long ‘Indigenous Sports Week’ carried out across multiple Beaconhouse campuses countrywide, with an aim to revive traditional games and sports, and raise cultural awareness among the students.

The traditional sports week commenced on March 14^th and concluded on March 18^th with active participation from students of elementary years, upper and lower primary and middle schools, belonging to more than a 100 Beaconhouse campuses from different cities, including Lahore, Karachi, Quetta, Multan, Peshawar, Islamabad, Sargodha, and Faisalabad. Classic and historic games from different regions of Pakistan that were played during this week included Kabbadi, Khokla Chappaki, Stapoo, Rassa Kashi, Pithoo, Kikli, Gilli Danda, Aankh Macholi, Oonch Neech, Barf Paani, Bandar Qilla, Langri Paala, and Pakran Pakrai, all of which depicted a picture of energy, joy, and cultural richness.

As stated by Ali Ahmad Khan, Chief Operating Officer, Beaconhouse School System, “The traditional sports week at Beaconhouse is a step towards the revival of indigenous sports amongst the youth.  We believe that it is necessary to preserve our cultural games for future generations, which have diminished over the years with the upsurge of globalization, migration, and societal changes.  Such initiatives are not only conducive to physical health and strengthen teamwork amongst the youth, but also highlight the importance of sports in our cultural heritage.”

Physical activity as a part of the education experience is essential for a healthy and holistic development. The aforementioned classic games polished the students’ skills of speed, strength, endurance, flexibility, reflexes, decision making, muscle coordination, and sportsmanship. The aim of this event was also to reflect upon cultural diversity, reintroduce traditional sports to the newer generation, enhance intercultural dialogue and awareness, and encourage values of solidarity, fair-play, and inclusion.

This effort from Beaconhouse to reinstate cultural games in an increasingly modernized world is a commendable endeavor. The organization was established in 1975 and has been showcasing educational expertise ever since, with a current student strength of over 315,000 across Pakistan.

The new HUAWEI FreeBuds 4 is set to take your audio experience to next level with Studio-quality sound, open-fit Active Noise Cancellation, and an unparalleled comfort

          

Sound is one essential element that completes the overall experience. Every day, we are surrounded by sound coming from all directions and while it is something we are often used to, it sometimes cuts us from what we actually want to hear.

Check out the HUAWEI FreeBuds 4, Huawei’s latest True Wireless Stereo (TWS) Bluetooth earbuds that continues the legacy of the open-fit earbuds with Active Noise Cancelation (ANC) technology that started with the HUAWEI FreeBuds 3.

Offering studio-quality sound as well as open-fit ANC and unmatched air-like comfort, the HUAWEI FreeBuds 4 doesn’t just work with Huawei products, but also with devices running Android and iOS. Through the HUAWEI AI Life app, users are able to adjust settings or perform various controls such as wear detection, quick control, status query, noise cancelation and device management.

Immersive high-resolution audio with studio-quality sound

While speakers can handle all frequencies created by sound, the same is not the case with earbuds or headphones, which is why there is a need to innovate on how sound can be perfectly replicated despite the narrow frequency range.

With the HUAWEI FreeBuds 4, it uses a classic 14.3mm dynamic driver with a lightweight yet durable diaphragm that brings improved dynamic response to help avoid split vibrations that cause distortions in audio output. The earbuds use a Liquid Crystal Polymer (LCP) composite diaphragm made of polymer for greater durability that brings improved middle and treble sounds. In various test, dynamic drivers that use an LCP composite diaphragm can support a frequency range of up to 40 kHz which can deliver professional-grade sound quality with richer and fuller trebles.

Using this dynamic driver isn’t enough, and Huawei has implemented a bass tube on the earbuds to create a more pulse-pounding bass. This tube connects to the rear chamber of the audible unit with the external air holes and is part of a newly upgraded bass enhancement engine, bass tube and motherboard that form an independent sealed sound cavity. This results in an enhanced airtightness and acoustic pressure and increased bass performance that is wasn’t possible before on a small earbud.

More than just the impressively rich bass, clear vocals and rich details, the HUAWEI FreeBuds 4 also uses Adaptive Ear Matching (AEM) technology for the first time in open-fit earbuds. Using this technology, it can intelligently optimise the audio effect and output, allowing users to have a consistent and high resolution audio quality no matter how they’re wearing the earbuds.

Aside from the hardware enhancements to bring rich treble and powerful bass performance, HUAWEI FreeBuds 4 feature Adaptive Ear Matching (AEM) technology in open-fit earphones for the first time. By automatically detecting user’s ear shape and wearing condition, HUAWEI FreeBuds 4 can intelligently optimise the audio effect, allowing users to have consistent and high resolution audio quality regardless of the wearing situation.

Leading the industry with open-fit noise cancelation

Earbuds that feature ANC usually come with an in-ear design, but despite the technical challenges Huawei managed to bring ANC to open-fit earbuds: the open-fit earbuds offer a more pleasant and super comfortable wearing experience as the user is less likely to feel a build-up of air pressure within.

Challenges like how the earbuds should fit in user’s ears for absolute comfort as well as a proper noise cancelling algorithm brought about the adoption of dual microphones used on the HUAWEI FreeBuds 4. Together with AEM technology, it helps address the issue by automatically adjusting the music depending on the user’s ears. When users turn on noise cancellation, the earbuds automatically detects the ear canal shape and wearing conditions and then assigns the best suited noise cancellation parameters for the best listening experience.

Additionally, HUAWEI FreeBuds 4 has a staggered wind-proof structure that prevents wind noise from being generated at the source. This design effectively blocks strong winds from blowing directly into the microphone, allowing for better wind-proof effects.

Ergonomic design for an air-like comfort

More than just the performance, earbuds should also offer comfort levels that will allow it to be worn for long periods. In the case of the HUAWEI FreeBuds 4, Huawei created a 3D evaluation system that mainly looks at the wearing comfort of earbuds from three elements that include suction pressure, stability and stuffiness. Stress tests are then done to simulate how the earbuds are worn. Using 10,000+ human ear models, the HUAWEI FreeBuds 4 was created factoring in the comfort assessment on these tests to guarantee an optimal wearing air-like comfort for all users.

An audio assistant for a better lifestyle

The HUAWEI FreeBuds 4 can also work as an external microphone when shooting videos. Thanks to the high-sensitivity microphone, it is able record high-fidelity sound using a sample rate of 48 kHz that help retain much if the detail on the audio being recorded. Low Latency Mode is also supported on the HUAWEI FreeBuds 4 which is perfect for users who love playing fast-paced games.

Most of the time users want to control playback or answer calls without the need to take out their smartphones, which is why the HUAWEI FreeBuds 4 feature intuitive controls built right on the earbud. Tapping twice on the stem allows users to answer/reject a call, play/pause music, play previous/next song and enable voice assistant while swiping up and down will control the volume. Additionally, long pressing on the steam of the earbuds can enable/disable noise cancelation.

In this current digital age, many users typically own more than one device and it could be a hassle if they want to connect the earbuds to multiple devices that would require to be set up every time it is being used. HUAWEI FreeBuds 4 supports dual device connections whether if it’s a Huawei smartphone, tablet, PC, smartwatch or even devices from other brands.

In one scenario, when the user is watching on the tablet and there is an incoming call on the smartphone, the tablet will automatically pause the episode and the earphones will switch to the smartphone for the user to pick up the call.

In staying true to its technological innovations, the HUAWEI FreeBuds 4 joins Huawei’s line up of products that have transformed the way users interact with devices. This is a true testament to Huawei’s capabilities in delivering what the user wants and in turn taking audio experience to the next level.

Meta Description: Take your audio experience to next level with the HUAWEI FreeBuds 4 featuring Studio-quality sound, open-fit Active Noise Cancellation and air-like comfort.

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) joins TikTok

   

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced that it has joined TikTok – the short video-making app, in a bid to reach a much wider audience. The cricket board made the announcement on social media, urging the fans to follow it on the app for BTS stories, exclusive content and much more.

The announcement does not come as a surprise as the two have been working together for the last 2-3 months. TikTok is also the Title Sponsor of the historical Pakistan-Australia series and had previously sponsored the Pakistan Super League’s seventh edition’s title song – “Agay Dekh”.

PCB in the first five days gained quick followers and likes on the posted videos. The posted content includes some highlights of the matches and some fun content like the dance moves or David Warner and Hassan Ali.

https://www.tiktok.com/@pcb

TikTok has helped the PCB get over 1 billion impressions on the PSL-related hashtags – an event that in itself inspired the PCB to use TikTok to reach much bigger audience from all around the world. With the PCB joining TikTok, fans now have the opportunity to get exclusive content very easily.

It is pertinent to mention here that TikTok has an active user-base of over 1 billion users every month, making it an ideal platform to share the latest updates with Pakistan cricket fans. The PCB had also made terrific use of TikTok during the PSL when it engaged with fans directly and turned them into brand ambassadors for the PSL by asking them to share their dance move videos with it.

Not only did it help the PCB in getting more eyeballs for the tournament, but the reach that the PSL got on TikTok was truly unprecedented. Now that the PCB has officially joined TikTok, fans will be ready for lots of engaging, informative, fun, and above all, entertaining cricket content – something that was a rarity not very long ago.

https://vm.tiktok.com/ZSdRUJXP7 

https://vm.tiktok.com/ZSdRUjUq2/

TikTok is already used by many high profile Pakistan international cricketers including Shadab Khan, Hassan Ali, Asif Ali, and Musa Khan to name the few. Not only the players but the Choef Selector Muhammad Waseem is also quite active on TikTok. With the PCB now having an official presence on TikTok, we can expect other top Pakistani players on the app soon.

Standard Chartered Karachi United Youth League Concludes with Impressive Finale in Islamabad

          

Standard Chartered - Karachi United Football League concluded at Kings Football Ground, Ayub Park Rawalpindi, by Standard Chartered Bank Pakistan Limited in collaboration with the Karachi United Youth Football Club.

This league was launched in Islamabad in December 2021. Featuring 113 thrilling matches, among 29 teams, it comprised more than 435 young male & female players, who showed great performances, till the vibrant closing ceremony was held recently. Sponsorship of this tournament was a part of Standard Chartered Bank’s resourceful social-development initiative to promote healthy-sporting activities in the country.

The winning team in the girls’ competition was SMURF FC, while the victorious squad in the under-14 boys’ competition was POPO FC. The under-16 boy’s team contest was won by NISHTAR FC. The tournament inspires enthusiastic participation by children hailing from different football clubs and academies from Islamabad and Rawalpindi.

Standard Chartered has been sponsoring this league since 2017. Initiated with engaging 600 children from underserved communities, today the tournament has exceeded the headcount to over 3200 children, who have been supported through sports to become productive citizens. Otherwise, many of these youngsters may have been engulfed in self-injurious activities such as violence or drugs.

Ms. Khadija Hashimi, Head, CABM, AME & Country Head, of Standard Chartered Pakistan commenting on the sponsorship said, “It is a moment of pride for us to see the growth of the Standard Chartered-Karachi United Youth Football League over the past five years. We launched the league in Islamabad late last year and the response received has been overwhelming. True to its promise, the league has enabled us to create opportunities, build healthy competition and inculcate self-confidence and respect in local communities, whilst breaking barriers across class, genders, and abilities, through sport. We hope that through this effort we can continue to bring a positive change in the society by providing an equal playing field for children across the city.” She added.

Commenting on the league Mr. Imran Ali, Director Youth and Community, at Karachi United said: “We must give huge credit to Standard Chartered and its leadership team, for understanding the benefit of such a platform for our youth and communities. We are now witnessing the fruits of this investment on development of children and communities. Some of these players have gone on to represent Pakistan national teams at different levels, whilst others are pursuing higher education and enrolling in coaching programs.”

He further said: “We will leverage these talented players within communities, as role models and future-makers, to strengthen our impact. Through the Liverpool ‘Train the Trainer’ program, we have delivered coaching to over 6000 children, who now understand Liverpool’s coaching philosophy. None of this would have been possible without the continued support of Standard Chartered. We are so grateful to this socially-responsible bank.”

ACCA co-hosted 1st Pakistan Petrochemical Symposium in Islamabad

              

ACCA, as an organization and one of the most forward-thinking accountancy bodies of the world, places a special focus on driving the sustainability agenda. Sajjeed Aslam emphasized on this and said, “Now more than ever, organizations and industries need to champion sustainability in growth. Embedding sustainability in business practices is a continuous journey that needs actions from all stakeholders whether it is the investors, supply chain, clients, talent- it is important to address the topic in a short-term perspective to future proof all businesses.”

The event was attended by industry leaders, foreign delegates, c-suite executives, policymakers and government officials and was also broadcasted live on ACCA Pakistan’s Facebook, LinkedIn & YouTube pages.

Infinix Wins Asian Telecom Awards 2022 Infinix secures Top Spots in Technology Innovation of the Year & Marketing & Brand Initiative of the Year - China

         Infinix  proudly announced its victory of winning two awards issued by Asian Telecom Awards 2022. Infinix secured a top spot in both the Innovation of the Year & Marketing & Brand Initiative of the Year in China region. Held in Singapore by the leading business magazine Asian Business Review (ABR), the Asian Telecom Awards traces its heritage from Asian Mobile News started in 2003. The prestigious award is designed to recognize the remarkable achievements and initiatives of Asia's leading telecom companies.

 On winning the two awards, Benjamin Jiang, Managing Director of Infinix Mobility, said, “The awards that Infinix received at the Asian Telecom Awards 2022 show the industry’s recognition of Infinix’s significant investment into technology innovation and a customer-centric marketing strategy which continues to drive Infinix's ongoing efforts. Infinix is committed to investing in innovation for the long term, with the mission of providing customers stylishly designed and cutting-edge technology smart devices at attainable price points to empower the lives of today’s youth.”

 “Throughout the Covid-19 pandemic and white-hot competition in the smartphone industry, Infinix has been constantly boosting industry confidence through its efforts in innovation and consumer communication, showing the entire industry that it sure is a brand to watch,” said Tim Charlton, Editor-in-Chief and Publisher of Asian Business Review.

 The Awards

 

Marketing & Brand Initiative of the Year – China. Awarded for remarkable achievements in Branding. Infinix achieved a strategic corporate partnership with Royal Observatory Greenwich and held a webinar themed "Infinix Presents: See Beyond", which brought journalists, tech influencers and astronomers together to show Infinix & Royal Observatory Greenwich’s shared salute to space exploration to inspire a new generation. At the event, Infinix unveiled its brand new ZERO X Pro flagship smartphone with a 108MP OIS main camera and 60X periscope moonshot lens, which sets the stage for a whole new era of mobile phone technology. This marketing strategy helped Infinix convey its brand spirit of empowering today’s youth with trendy technology that is out of reach for the everyday consumer in emerging markets.

 

Technology Innovation of the Year - China. Awarded for outstanding technological breakthroughs in smartphone development. Infinix developed the 160W fast charging technology by integrating Ultra Flash Charge (UFC) technology, Innovative Super Charge Pump, 60 security protection mechanisms and an 8C battery cell providing a full-charge time of only 10 minutes. The Infinix Concept Phone also utilizes electrochromic and electroluminescent technology to produce the world’s first dual color-changing back cover feature. Additionally, it improves the display by the addition of the 88° limit radian to the improve user’s viewing experience. The Infinix Concept Phone 2021 pushes the boundaries of innovative technologies and creative aesthetics to drive the future of smartphone designs forward.