Tech Radar- Mobile World Congress 2018

Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, Spain is a huge event, and it seems as though excitement behind the tech showcase isn’t stopping anytime soon. From the Galaxy S9 to new laptops, this is what MWC attendees got to encounter this year.

Galaxy S9 and S9 Plus

The Galaxy ecosystem has stayed pretty consistent in the designs the last few years, but the new flagship phone is freshened up with new features, from AR Emojis to low light photography, there is something for everyone, both on a fun and practical wavelength.

MateBook X Pro

Huawei does not have new phones that were released at this event, but the tech company did show off the MateBook X Pro, an impossibly thin machine with an all screen display, a webcam that can be stored within the keyboard, and specs that rival those of the MacBook Pro.

5G

5G has been thrown around as a buzzword for a few years now, but this year the hype was real. It sounds like we can expect to see carriers deploying the service and devices with 5G capabilities later this year.

Nokia 8110

Feeding into 90s nostalgia HMD’s Nokia 8110 slider phone is a call back to the Matrix’s banana phones, only this time with 4G and social media. Not to worry, you can still play Snake on this classic redux.

Asus Zenfone 5

The iPhone X was a key influence for smartphone design this year, from the software to the infamous notch on the top of the screen. Asus new Zenfone iteration, the Zenfone 5, is almost an identical twin of the iPhone X on the hardware side, but at half the price. The new model boasts a Snapdragon 845 processor, and a headphone jack, making it a powerful addition to the Zen ecosystem.

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Essential Guide to Instagram for Business

Instagram is a valuable marketing tool for any business, which many marketers have known since the app was released. We’ve seen brands leverage the community to build their influence and brand awareness as well as increasing sales. But in early 2016, a new feature was released just for these businesses. Instagram for business allows marketers to leverage real data and account insights as well as create ads and targeted posts.These tips and tricks will help you leverage your Instagram business page today.

Get creative

Show off what your business does by creating content that isn’t expected. Focus on the solutions your products can provide for your customers, not just the products themselves. Sharing insider views of how your business functions on a day to day basis, and keeping up with what’s going on in the world and relating it back to what you’re doing is key, as well as keeping in mind that Instagram is a primarily visual platform. That means you need to keep your posts clean and well composed.  

Instagram Stories

If you aren’t already using Instagram Stories to further your content, you need to re-evaluate and work them into your marketing strategy. Stories are a great way to share things that are going on in your company that may not be worth creating a full post for but are also great for showcasing events, going more in-depth about what your posts are about.

Create consistent and authentic content

The content you create can and should be beautiful on its own, but it also needs to be consistent. Consistency means making sure you’re posting on regular basis or on a pre-set schedule, but also that each individual post fits in with the rest of your content. Paying close attention to your color palette is key to this, as well as posting content that is consistent with your brand’s image and communication style.

Respond to your followers

Customer service is a huge part of owning a business. You wouldn’t leave a customer to sit with an unanswered question in person, so making sure you’re engaging with your followers and people commenting on your posts or sending you direct messages. Communicating outside of just the posts you make is huge for projecting a good public image of your business to the outside world. Let your followers know that you are invested in them, so they feel they should invest their time caring about you.

Targeting Ads

If you’re familiar with Facebook ads and targeting through the Facebook ad management platform, you’re in luck. Instagram ads (specifically for business accounts) are managed in the same place and are set up in the same way. This includes location, demographics, and interests targeting, which ensures that your ads are being seen by exactly who you want.  

User-generated content or contests

Engage with your customers by hosting contests, giveaways or other incentive-based “events”. If you have customers post photos with your specific contest hashtags, you can easily track engagement and participation. Another great way to include your user base is to post user-generated content, either by reposting (and crediting) others’ posts or by having a channel “takeover” where an influencer or other user is able to post on your profile as themselves as sponsored by you.

Instagram is a valuable tool for marketers, and it’s easy to get started today. See how this always expanding social media platform can help you grow your business.

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Tech Radar: Google Pixel 2

Photo by Maurizio Pesce via Flickr

On October 4th, Google’s tech event revealed a number of changes and product releases, including announcing the newest iteration of the highly rated Google Pixel cell phone: the Google Pixel 2. This is what you need to know before you buy!

Features:

The original Pixel heralded an extremely high-quality camera and the Pixel 2 is no different. The photo quality is outstanding, even in low light. As an added bonus, you are able to store the photos and videos you take for free with unlimited online storage. The water-resistant phone is equipped with fast charging technology, similar to its predecessor and comes with an improved version of Google Assistant. In a drastic departure from the original Pixel, the 3.5 mm headphone jack has been removed, an interesting change after the introduction of the original Pixel that shaded Apple for their headphone jack removal on the iPhone 7.

The Pixel 2 is available in four colorways and in two sizes.

Specs:

The Pixel 2 is loaded with high tech updates, including the 835 Qualcomm Snapdragon processor, a dual focus camera, pOLED screen, updated security functions, and high-quality stereo speakers. There is a 5-inch screen on the Pixel 2 and a 6-inch screen on the Pixel 2 XL. Both sizes come with 64 GB and 128 GB storage options.

Pricing:

The Pixel 2 starts at $649, and the Pixel 2 XL starts at $849. Both models went on sale October 4th.

Read more about the Pixel 2 and the other products announced at Google’s October 4th event here.

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Tech Radar: What You Need to Know About Apple’s New iPhones

via Shutterstock

Apple made headlines with the announcement of the newest generation of iPhone, the iPhone 8, but also the addition of the game changer the iPhone X.  These are some of the key things to know about these high powered smartphones before they are released.

X is 10

Apple celebrates iPhone’s ten-year anniversary with the release of the iPhone X, which is pronounced as iPhone “ten”. At the event, Apple CEO Tim Cook says this is “the biggest leap forward since the original iPhone.”    

Shipping and Purchase Expectations

The iPhone 8 and 8 Plus will be available for pre-order today (September 15) and goes on sale on September 22. The 8 starts at $699 USD, and the 8 Plus starts at $799 USD.  The iPhone X is scheduled for a later release date, available for pre-order on October 27 with an expected sale date of November 3. The initial supply is rumored to be VERY limited, so be ready to pre-order. The iPhone X will have a starting price of $999, making it the most expensive iPhone yet released, but the specs of the phone are worth the price hike, according to this Business Insider post.

iPhone8 and iPhone 8 Plus Highlights

The iPhone 8 and 8 Plus are a beautifully designed smartphone that will host one of the most exciting releases Apple has promised, iOS 11. The 8 and 8 Plus are water and dust resistant, with an all glass design and Retina HD displays. The cameras have been improved for better color capture, as well as for image stabilization and more, so photos shot on iPhone become even more brilliant. Outstanding Augmented Reality capability and wireless charging round out some of the key features to try out if you purchase an iPhone8 or 8Plus. Learn about more features here.

iPhone X Highlights

One of the biggest draws of the iPhone X is the all new screen design. Taking away the borders of past models, the OLED screen on the X is a 5.8 inch Super Retina display that takes up the entire front of the phone, and no home button. With new features like Animoji’s (animated emoji), dust and water resistance, Face ID authentication, portrait mode selfies and added studio quality lighting effects added into the improved cameras, an efficient battery and a first for Apple: wireless charging capabilities. Learn more about the iPhone X’s features here.

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2017 Tech Roundup

Nintendo Switch

Gaming giant Nintendo’s newest console the Nintendo Switch is a system that adapts to almost any type of play. Designed for both portable use and home use, the Switch was launched in March 2016, along with the highly anticipated game “The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild”. The Switch comes with what is called “Joy-Con” for flexible gameplay. See this adaptable console in action in this video. After the Switch’s launch, there have been 2.74 million units sold worldwide.

Samsung Galaxy S8 (and Galaxy S8+)

After the fiery demise of the Note 7, Samsung needed to release a phone that will make consumers forget the past and focus on the future. The Galaxy S8 does exactly that. With an aptly named “Infinity Screen” the display on these phones is huge, clear and refined. Available for around $750 for the S8 and $850 for the S8+, these phones are pricey, but there is enough excitement surrounding them, that many are calling it one of the best on the market. Boasting a great battery life, camera and build, it’s no wonder people are excited for this highly anticipated smartphone.

Microsoft Surface Laptop

Launched May 2, the Surface Laptop is the newest product in Microsoft’s Surface product line. However, rather than the past Surface devices, this is a laptop, pure and simple. No detachable keyboard and tablet construction. But the best parts of Surface devices past are still around. The responsive touchscreen, a fabric alcantara keyboard, and Surface Pen compatibility. Running on the all new Windows 10S operating system, this new laptop is a high powered and beautiful device.  

Apple Rumors

Apple will be releasing multiple new items this year, including new iMacs, iPads, Apple Watches, MacBooks, Apple TV, and maybe most anticipated the iPhone 8. There are currently no set dates for release, but there is a great deal of speculation over what each of these products will do, look like, and even more. Check out Macworld’s full list of update speculations.

Keep checking in for more tech news and updates.

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5 Steps To Land Your Job Using Social Media

Social media is no longer the space of selfies and like counts. Social media has now infused itself into everyday life, even in the professional world. Today finding a job, changing careers or even starting a business can happen on social media. Here are 5 steps to getting hired via social media!

Your Social Brand
Just like prepping for an interview or sprucing up your resume, that same preparation needs to be placed in social branding. Find a clear, personable and professional voice. Create a presence that showcases your true self, but… in a light that is most appealing to potential employers.

Interact Online
After creating your persona it’s time to participate. Research your intended market and get involved in conversations that include the industry and those already working in it.

Job Search
After, and while continuing to participate in relevant conversations start your job search. Nearly all companies these days involve social media at least in some part in their hiring process. Be it via LinkedIn, Facebook’s new application portal, or even answering cold calls over Twitter start applying across the board.

Make Connections
Social media is also a quick and efficient way of networking. Reach out directly to those you’ve met in real life or via the internet in a personal yet professional way. Thanks to social media converting connections into relationships has become as simple as sliding into someone’s direct messages.

Real Life Transition
Lastly, all of the social media expertise won’t do any good if those skills don’t translate into real life. Be sure to continue honing skills such as well done resume and well prepared interviews.

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7 Hacks To Becoming Instagram Famous

Instagram is undeniably one of the largest social media platforms in the world. With some of the highest returns on engagement and reach,  having a strong Instagram page can be a game changer for brands and businesses. Here are a few hacks on how to get an influential account.

Develop A Unique Instagram Style

One of the biggest difficulties is being to find your specific niche. Standing out on in a sea of Starbucks unicorn frappuccinos and scenic sunsets isn’t the easiest, but try. Be fresh, be fun, be you!

Descriptive Captions

Long detailed and well written captions highly increase engagement. Storytelling is an art, and coupled with great photos it has given brands like @NatGeo and @HumansOfNY a cutting edge. This won’t work for all brands but for those with a strong and definitive voice this could be the added boost.

Creative Hashtagging

Twitter might have popularized hashtags but Instagram has taken it to the next level. Each picture should have a mix of both broad and specific hashtags to generate the most reach. Take those specific hashtags created for you or your business and promote them as you would your tagline. Have hashtags on your website, social media bio etc, make them a part of your brand.

Bio URL

Instagram has only ONE coveted direct link on its entire page and it can be found in the bio. Where do you want your followers and potential customers to go? What do you want them to do? Feel free to change the link often to see what works best and to add variety.

Participate in Relevant Conversations

You don’t have to keep up with all the new dance moves and new unicorn trends, but keeping up with industry specific news is important. Keeping up with trends can get a bit exhausting, but a little extra snooping can lead to free PR by riding the coattails of a viral new trend!

Get Local

Making a big splash is easiest in small ponds. Reach out to local businesses, creatives, and markets. Networking with local industry professionals is great for marketing, making connections and gaining clout!

Influencer Marketing

Last but not least let’s not forget the latest and biggest marketing trend, influencer marketing. It’s one of the easiest and most targeted ways to reach your audience. Find Instagramers that have influence in specific demographics you’re looking to reach and let them do the work for you!

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Everything You Need To Know About India’s Smartphone Market

India’s population currently stands at around 1.3 billion people. That number alone puts them in the perfect position to be one of the most sought-after markets, regardless of what the product or service in question may be. Now known as being a huge target audience for technology products, India has reached new levels of smartphone use over the last year, leading the country to become the second largest smartphone market in the world. This growing segment of smartphone users is being heavily documented, especially this year, as there have been many changes that have caused this market to expand. These are the essential facts for getting to know India’s smartphone market.

Rate of growth

In a slow moving global smartphone market, with shipments growing only 3% last year, India is blazing forward with an 18% shipment growth. India’s smartphone market slowed in growth in November when the country moved to change currency to prevent counterfeiters and slow corruption. Because of shortages at ATMs and large notes being taken out of service, spending large amounts of money on a smartphone is not convenient for many, so it is expected that growth will continue to be slow during early 2017.

Device Types

With over 300 million phones shipped in 2016, there is a wide distribution of device types. Android phones are favored, but Apple had a huge win in 2016, shipping 2.5 million iPhones, a staggering number that was enough to put the device giant in 10th place in the country. Indian smartphone companies had a less impressive year. Their devices are still popular, but for the first time ever, the final top five brands featured no domestic companies. Instead, the top brands for the end of 2016 were Samsung and multiple Chinese brands. iPhones continue to rise in popularity, and the iPhone 7 is a favorite in the premium space. The best selling iPhone however, isn’t the most recent model, but older models (iPhone 5s, iPhone SE, iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus), sold  to give customers a wide range of prices to choose from. This is not surprising, given the fact that in India, 70% of phones used by the general population cost less than $150, and the iPhone 7 base model retails at $649.

Rise of Chinese Brands’ Popularity

There are over 65 smartphone brands that are used in India. In 2016,  Samsung remained the most popular brand used. With that being said, the saturation of the market with Chinese phones can’t be ignored. The end of the quarter showed total shipment numbers of 28.1 million phones from these four Chinese companies: Vivo, Xiaomi, Lenovo, and Oppo Electronics. Combined with other brands in the country, Chinese devices make up 51% of the Indian smartphone market.

For those that are trying to introduce products into India’s enormously saturated and competitive market remember that there is a huge market, and with that an untapped growth potential; meaning that many will try to navigate it and seek to establish themselves as the leader in a market that has a tremendous amount of sway over global statistics. Keeping watch on this smartphone market’s trends will be key to major growth in the technology field.

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