They are our bank, our office, our camera, and sometimes even our therapist. But for all it does, one thing it seldom keeps up with is staying charged throughout the day.

Smartphones are getting smarter, but battery life? Not really. Users are demanding longer life from their devices, and with good reason—work, entertainment, and emergency contact, among others, no one wants to see that red battery icon flashing before noon. 

So, let’s walk you through simple, effective strategies to help your phone last longer, not just today, but over time.

Understanding why your battery dies quickly: Before you fix a problem, you need to know what’s causing it. A lot of people assume it’s just a matter of charging less or using fewer apps, but battery drain is usually a combination of unconscious habits and overlooked settings.

Let’s break it down:

1. Background Processes

Just because you swipe an app away doesn’t mean it goes to sleep, some of them stay active, poking the internet every few minutes. 

News apps refresh headlines you’re not reading, messaging apps keep connections alive even when you’re not chatting, and social media never stops. 

Every one of these background tasks silently takes power, your phone is constantly busy draining battery.

2. Display Settings

Your screen is a power guzzler. Full brightness might make things look nice, but it’s punishing your battery. Leave it on too long or keep the screen awake unnecessarily, and it becomes a slow leak you’ll barely notice, until you hit 15% at 2 p.m. 

If you’re using an OLED screen, every pixel lights up individually. That means even your wallpaper can affect power consumption. The wrong settings here? Drainage by a thousand taps.

3. Connectivity

Wi-Fi, GPS, Bluetooth, mobile data, they’re all essential at times. But left unchecked, they’re constantly searching for signals, even when there’s nothing to connect to. Ever been in a low-signal area and noticed your battery dropping like a rock? That’s your phone working overtime just to stay online. You don’t need to be connected to everything, everywhere, all the time.

4. Power-Hungry Apps

Some apps eat batteries like they’re starving. Games with high graphics, video streaming platforms, TikTok, Instagram, anything that keeps your screen on and data flowing. 

Add in notifications, autoplay videos, background syncing, and it’s no wonder your battery doesn’t last. I’ve seen people check WhatsApp every 3 minutes, then wonder why their phone dies before lunch.

5. Charging Habits

Most people don’t realise this, charging to 100% every time or letting your phone hit 0% regularly? That stresses the battery. Lithium-ion cells, which most phones use, degrade faster when constantly pushed to extremes.

Keeping your battery between 20% and 80% is ideal. But I get it, most of us plug in overnight, leave it charging for hours, and repeat the cycle daily. Over time, it adds up, and your battery life shrinks.

The good news? You can fix most of this with a few tweaks.

Adjust Settings for Optimal Power Use

Let’s start with the basics. Every smartphone has built-in settings to help you control how much power you use.

Display Settings

Start here. Reduce screen brightness manually, or better still, turn on auto-brightness so your phone adjusts to your surroundings. Set your screen timeout to 30 seconds or less. If your phone supports dark mode, use it. On OLED displays, this actually saves power by turning off pixels in black areas.

Battery Saver Mode

Most modern phones have a battery saver or low-power mode. Turn this on when your battery drops below 30%, or even earlier if you expect to be out for long. It limits background activity, reduces performance slightly, and pauses automatic syncing.

Disable Unused Features

When not needed, switch off:

• Bluetooth if you’re not using wireless headphones.
• GPS unless you’re actively using maps or location-based services.
• Wi-Fi and mobile data when not browsing.

Also, if you’re in a poor signal area, your phone uses extra power trying to connect. In those cases, enable airplane mode to avoid constant signal hunting.

Manage Apps That Drain Battery

Limit Background Activity

Head to your battery usage stats (usually under Settings > Battery). You’ll find a list of apps and how much power they’re using. If an app is near the top but you barely use it, restrict its background activity.

On Android, you can force stop or optimise the app. On iOS, check app refresh settings and turn them off for less important apps.

Uninstall or Replace Problematic Apps

Some apps are just inefficient. Facebook and Snapchat, for example, are known battery drainers. If you can’t delete them, consider their Lite versions or use a web browser instead. Even your camera and gallery apps might be syncing too often, check those too.

Optimise Charging Habits

Avoid Full Drains and Constant Full Charges

Contrary to popular belief, draining your phone to zero isn’t good for it. Neither is charging it all the way to 100% every time. The ideal range is between 20% and 80%.

If your phone is regularly at extremes, its battery life will degrade faster.

Use Quality Chargers

Don’t take a chance on off-brand or cheap chargers. They can overheat or damage your phone’s charging system. Always use the original charger or certified replacements. Fast charging is useful, but it generates heat, so don’t use it every time if you don’t have to.

Keep It Cool

Heat is the enemy of battery health. Charging while gaming, using the phone in the sun, or charging under a pillow traps heat and weakens your battery. Let your phone breathe.

Use Built-In Tools and Third-Party Apps

Most phones now come with battery health and usage tools. Learn to use them. On iPhones, go to Settings > Battery > Battery Health & Charging. For Android, check Adaptive Battery settings.

Apps like AccuBattery (Android) or Battery Life Doctor (iOS) help monitor battery health, estimate wear over time, and guide charging habits. They’re useful if you’re serious about keeping your phone in good shape.

Consider Hardware Solutions

Sometimes, you just need more juice. A power bank is a must-have if you’re out for long hours. Choose one with a reliable brand and at least 10,000mAh capacity.

Battery cases add bulk, but they double your uptime. If you’re constantly running out of battery, you may want to consider a new phone with a larger battery or better power efficiency.

What’s Next: The Sustainability of Smartphone Batteries

Battery technology is evolving, but not fast enough. Manufacturers are improving software optimisation, like AI-based charging in new devices, and experimenting with new materials like graphene to replace lithium-ion in the future.

Until then, the best way to stretch your battery life is to form good habits.

Let’s keep it simple. If your phone’s dying too quickly:

• Turn down the brightness.
• Use battery saver mode.
• Stop apps from running in the background.
• Don’t drain it to zero or leave it charging overnight.
• Watch your connectivity settings.

None of these tips require you to be a tech expert. They just need you to pay a little attention. Try them for a week. You’ll notice the difference, not just in how long your battery lasts, but in how well your phone performs overall.

Quick Battery Health Checklist

• Reduce screen brightness or enable auto-brightness
• Set screen timeout to 30 seconds or less
• Enable battery saver mode before 30%
• Turn off Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, GPS when not in use
• Restrict or uninstall high-drain apps
• Avoid full discharges and 100% charges
• Use trusted chargers and avoid heat during charging

When I first got my hands on the box, I expected the usual cardboard sardine can of mediocrity. But no, this was different. Clean lines, a matte feel with just enough sheen to trick your fingers into thinking they’re touching silk, and that subtle TECNO branding that doesn’t scream, but confidently whispers: “You’re in for something clever.”

Unboxing: A Grown-Up’s Toy Box

The box felt premium. Not over-the-top, just… intentional. Inside: the TECNO Camon 40 handset (I got the grey variant — sleek, polished, and unapologetically attention-seeking), a transparent case that hugs the curves like it was born to, a U450TKB 45W fast charger, USB-C cable, and yes, a SIM ejector tool.

The build? Slim enough to slip into your back pocket, glossy but not fingerprint-prone, meaning it doesn’t easily show fingerprints, with a subtle curve on the rear that fits into your palm like a handshake from someone who’s about to pitch you a startup.

Display & Design

This thing’s screen slaps. A 6.78-inch AMOLED panel with a 120Hz refresh rate — buttery smooth whether you’re doom-scrolling or dodging bullets in PUBG. Colours? Rich. Blacks? Deep. Outdoor readability? Surprisingly good under Lagos sun.

There’s a tiny punch-hole front-facing camera, almost invisible. Bezels are minimal. You get this immersive, edge-to-edge feeling that makes smaller phones seem outdated. The back design is elegant, with a soft hue that reflects light in this dance of subtle gradients. Plastic body, yes — but well-done.

Performance: Punches Above Its Pay Grade

The MediaTek Helio G100 Ultimate. Not flagship-level, but don’t let the name fool you — it’s responsive, fast, and doesn’t throw tantrums during heavy tasks. With 8GB RAM and 8GB extended memory (yes, virtual RAM is here to stay), multitasking is seamless.

I ran a bunch of apps — Chrome with 12 tabs, Instagram, Telegram, Canva, and the camera app — all open, no lag. HiOS 15.0.1 on Android 15 feels snappy and clean, with just the right sprinkle of TECNO’s flavour. Floating windows, split-screen, Smart Panel — all worked without issues. And no, it didn’t overheat even when I tried to make it sweat.

Let’s Talk AI: This Phone Might Be Smarter Than You

Now to the juicy bit — the TECNO AI suite. This isn’t gimmick AI that just adds filters. This stuff works:

• AI Call Denoise: Had a call in a noisy transit? The person on the other end of the phone heard me like I was in a padded studio. Black magic.
• AI Call Summary: After a 10-minute convo, the phone summarised it in a neat, bullet-point format. Goodbye note-taking.
• Ella Voice & Smart Touch: Long-press on any screen content, and bam, it recognises and pulls text or images for you. Perfect for those lazy days.
• AI Writing Assistant: Grammar fixer, content summariser, and idea stretcher. Almost wrote this review for me.
• Flash Snap: One-tap AI photo solving. Just point at a problem — the phone reads and suggests a solution. Absolutely wow.

It also has Circle to Search (think of it as your digital magnifying glass), Smart Hub, Translation Assistant, and more — each one making the phone feel less like a device and more like an overqualified intern.

Camera: Meet the LYT-700C Giant

This is a Camon, after all — and the camera shows up. The 50MP Sony LYT-700C Ultra Night sensor is a low-light legend. Night shots retain colour, detail, and drama. Daylight shots pop without being cartoonish. The 8MP ultra-wide does a decent job, with minimal distortion at the edges.

The front 32MP camera? Crisp, with minimal AI beauty interference — unless you want to look like a porcelain doll, in which case the toggle is right there.

Video tops out at 2K. Stabilisation is digital but decent. And that AI bokeh mode is miles ahead of the classic one — sharper subject detection and better background blur.

Battery & Charging: Fast and Furious

The TECNO CAMON 40 is built with a 5200mAh battery, which, on paper, should last all day—and in reality, it does. I pushed it through light to heavy use: streaming, calls, games, AI experiments, and the usual social media doom-scrolling. It comfortably held its own.

But what really surprised me was the charging speed. I plugged it in at 7:45 PM with the battery sitting at 64%, and by 8:06 PM, it was fully charged. That’s 36% in just 21 minutes. 

Doing the maths, that means a full charge from 0% to 100% would take about 58 minutes—not even up to an hour. Commendable for a 5200mAh battery. The 45W charger is clearly doing the heavy lifting, and there was no noticeable heating while it charged.

Connectivity & Extras

• 4G LTE (no 5G, sadly)
• Face unlock and fingerprint scanner — fast and reliable
• Dual SIM + microSD slot
• Loud stereo speakers with surprisingly rich sound
• Handy gestures and shortcuts: three-finger swipe for screenshots, hand gestures to answer calls, etc.

Price and Value

At ₦275,200, the CAMON 40 (128GB + 8GB RAM) sits in a curious price bracket. It’s not exactly budget, but it doesn’t scream luxury either. For that amount, you’re getting a phone that’s clearly punching above its weight in the AI department, comes with a night photography game strong enough to make pricier devices nervous, and a performance profile that handles everyday tasks and gaming without breaking a sweat. 

For students, creators, or professionals who don’t want to mortgage a kidney for a smart, stylish, AI-laced companion, the CAMON 40 is a solid buy.

Finally, TECNO Camon 40 is Smarter Than the Average Phone

What I Loved:

• Intelligent AI features that actually do something
• Fantastic night photography
• AMOLED 120Hz display
• Fast charging + big battery
• Smart software with real-world use

What Could Be Better:

• No 5G
• Plastic build (though well made)

Should You Buy It?

Absolutely — if you’re after a smart, stylish, affordable phone that won’t choke on daily tasks and will even help you be more productive. The Camon 40 is a low-key personal assistant. One that doesn’t eat, sleep, or judge your typos.

While local competitors soared, Apple’s numbers dropped 9% compared to the same period last year — down to 9.8 million units.

This is the seventh consecutive quarter Apple has seen its shipment volume shrink in China. For a company that once shaped global tech culture, that’s a worrying trend.

At the heart of the issue? Pricing. Apple is sticking to its high-end strategy, but that playbook isn’t working anymore — at least not in China.

A new wave of government subsidies, rolled out in January, is giving Chinese consumers a 15% rebate on devices priced below 6,000 yuan (about $820). Most iPhones don’t qualify. But brands like Xiaomi do, and they’re cashing in.

Xiaomi shipped 13.3 million phones — a 40% jump from the same time last year. That puts it comfortably ahead of Apple in market share, as more Chinese buyers choose value over brand prestige.

“The subsidy scheme is clearly designed to boost domestic consumption, but it’s also giving Chinese brands a strong edge,” said IDC analyst Will Wong. “Apple’s premium pricing structure has prevented the U.S. company from capitalising on new government subsidies.”

Overall, China’s smartphone market grew by 3.3% in Q1. So while the pie got bigger, Apple’s slice got smaller. Its market share now sits at 13.7%, down from 17.4% in the previous quarter — a sharp drop in such a competitive space.

Now, to be fair, Apple isn’t doing badly in shipments everywhere. Globally, it shipped 57.9 million phones in Q1 — its best first-quarter performance ever, with a 10% increase year-on-year.

But China isn’t just another market. It’s the world’s largest consumer electronics battlefield, and losing ground here sends a strong signal.

Chinese consumers are changing. They’re more price-sensitive, more nationalistic, and less dazzled by the Apple logo. And with brands like Xiaomi, Oppo, and Vivo offering sleek design and solid performance at lower prices — backed now by government support — Apple’s old charm isn’t quite cutting it.

The company has a decision to make. Stick to its high-margin strategy and risk further erosion in one of its most important markets? Or rethink its approach to pricing and product positioning in China?

Anyways, this is beyond being one bad quarter. It’s about whether Apple can still compete in a market that’s no longer waiting to be impressed.

For less than ₦150,000, the itel Power 70 isn’t trying to be a flagship killer—it’s here to be a lifesaver. 

A smartphone with an industry-first dual-power solution, it combines a 6,000mAh built-in battery with a 4,000mAh portable charging case. 

The result? A commendable 10,000mAh of battery capacity, letting you stay on TikTok for over 14 hours, listen to music for 162 hours, or enjoy light gaming for 26 hours. And when you finally need to recharge, the 18W fast charging gets you back in the game quickly.

But endurance isn’t just about battery life. The IP54 dust and water resistance, drop-resistant airbag case, and a four-year battery health guarantee mean this phone is built to survive—not just look good in an Instagram flat lay.

Performance & Display

Interestingly, the itel Power 70 is powered by the MediaTek Helio G50 Ultimate chipset. It’s not a gaming device, but for daily tasks—social media, messaging, and streaming—it holds its own. 

Memory fusion allows RAM expansion up to 16GB, and with up to 256GB of storage, you won’t be running out of space for photos, videos, or apps anytime soon.

Then there’s the 6.67-inch HD+ display. With a 93% screen-to-body ratio and 700 nits peak brightness, it handles direct sunlight better than most budget smartphones. No more squinting to read messages when you’re outdoors.

Camera & Extras: Keeping It Simple

A 13MP main camera and 8MP selfie shooter won’t replace a DSLR, but for everyday snapshots, they get the job done. 

Video recording maxes out at 1080p at 30fps, and you still get a side-mounted fingerprint sensor, USB Type-C, and the classic 3.5mm headphone jack (because Bluetooth isn’t always the answer).

Verdict: Who Is the itel Power 70 For?

This is a phone that makes sense. If you’re tired of power banks, constant charging, or smartphones that barely last a day, the itel Power 70 is a no-brainer. 

It’s rugged, reliable, and ridiculously affordable. While it won’t rival flagship devices in speed or camera performance, it does great where it matters most: keeping you connected when you need it the most.

Score: 9/10

Unbeatable battery life

Durable and practical design

Bright, immersive display

Generous RAM and storage for the price

Not built for high-end gaming

Availability

Itel Power 70 with 10,000mAh battery is available in retail stores across Nigeria. Want to experience unstoppable power? Get the itel Power 70 now on Jumia too.

The Mate 70 series, launched in Shenzhen today, November 26, 2024, includes a satellite paging system and an upgraded processor that enhances performance by 40% compared to previous models. 

The Mate 70 lineup is powered by the HarmonyOS NEXT operating system, a definitive departure from Android. With better performance, improved connectivity, and a focus on innovation, the series comes with a range of specifications which would bring independence and global competitiveness to Huawei.

Specifications and Features

1. Models and Display
   The Mate 70 series consists of four models: Mate 70, Mate 70 Pro, Mate 70 Pro+, and Mate 70 Ultimate Design.

• Mate 70 Pro and Pro+: Feature a 6.9-inch quad-curved OLED display with LTPO technology, bringing an adaptive refresh rate of 1-120Hz and a high touch sampling rate.
• Mate 70 Standard: Comes with a 6.7-inch flat display, featuring minimal bezels and a single punch-hole camera.

2. Camera System

• Rear Cameras: A 50MP main camera, supported by a 48MP telephoto lens and a 40MP ultra-wide lens.
• Technology: Powered by Huawei’s XMAGE imaging system, enabling advanced features like night mode, variable aperture photography, and 4K videography.
• Front Cameras: Pro models include triple punch-hole cameras with 3D sensors for face unlock and air gesture controls.

3. Battery and Charging

• Pro Models: Built with a 5700mAh battery, an upgrade from the 5000mAh in the previous generation. Supports 100W wired charging and 88W wireless charging.
• Standard Models: Feature smaller batteries with slightly reduced charging capabilities.

4. Performance

• Operating System: HarmonyOS NEXT comes with an upgraded interface, new animations, and improved integration with Huawei’s ecosystem devices. HarmonyOS NEXT, launched for public testing earlier this year, has already attracted over 15,000 applications, with plans to grow this ecosystem to 100,000 apps.
• Gaming: Enhanced Ark engine boosts gaming performance and overall system responsiveness.
• Satellite Connectivity: The Mate 70 is the first mainstream smartphone to incorporate satellite paging, adding reliability in remote locations.

Pricing and Availability

• Pricing:
  • Mate 70: Starting from ¥5,999 (approximately £650).
  • Mate 70 Pro: Priced at ¥6,999 (approximately £760).
  • Mate 70 Pro+ and Ultimate Design: Premium models with higher specifications and pricing starting from ¥8,499 (approximately £930).
• Availability: The Mate 70 series is currently available in China. Huawei has not yet announced plans for a global release.

Market Impact and Huawei’s Strategy

Huawei aims to overcome trade restrictions and these advancements are among its strategies. The Mate 70 series integrates chips manufactured domestically by China’s SMIC, a big win in light of U.S. sanctions on Chinese semiconductor firms.

Patriotism in China has played a role in boosting Huawei’s sales. The company ranked second in the Chinese smartphone market in Q3 2024, shipping over 10 million units. This is a recovery from Q2 2022 when shipments stood at just 4.1 million.

With its flagship Mate 70 series, Huawei has become a top competitor to Apple in China, the world’s largest smartphone market. 

That’s according to the latest insights from International Data Corporation (IDC), with the firm’s newly released Quarterly Global Mobile Phone Tracker showing that feature phone shipments declined 15.9% over the same period to total 18.8 million units.

This marks the first quarter where smartphone shipments have surpassed feature phone shipments in Africa, highlighting a clear transition toward smartphones across the region.

“South Africa experienced healthy YoY growth in Q1 2024, driven by the rising popularity and availability of competitively priced Chinese brands with advanced features,” says Arnold Ponela, a senior research analyst at IDC. “Meanwhile, Nigeria saw robust growth fueled by the success of Transsion brands and Xiaomi, particularly in the entry-level segment, which significantly boosted shipments. Kenya further strengthened its position as the third-largest smartphone market in Africa in Q1 2024, with innovative financing models like Mkopa driving sales growth.”

In Q1 2024, Transsion brands (TECNO, Itel, Infinix) maintained their leading position in terms of smartphone market share, driven by their compelling entry-level device portfolio tailored to the African market.

However, Samsung and Xiaomi gained market share on the previous quarter, driven by mid-range ($200<$400) models.

Overall, shipments of smartphones in this price range increased in Q1 2024, while shipments of <$100 devices declined, indicating a growing consumer preference for feature-rich models.

Looking at 2024 as a whole, IDC expects Africa’s smartphone market to see shipments increase 5.7% YoY, with a sustained upward trajectory for the next five years. “Africa remains a market with a high share of feature phones, although they are expected to gradually decline as the transition to smartphones gains momentum,” says Akash Balachandran, a research manager at IDC. “This shift, coupled with rising demand, will be the key driver of overall growth in the smartphone market. Persistent inflationary pressures and escalating macroeconomic uncertainties may cause short-term fluctuations but will not impede the long-term transition.”

From digital transformation to the carbon footprints of data centres, CIOs are responsible for an ever-growing set of workstreams.

This is backed up by Lenovo’s 2023 Global Study of CIOs, which found that 84% of IT leaders believe they contribute to company success more than other C-suite leaders, and that nine out of ten believe that they are shouldering more responsibility than ever before.

Today’s CIOs are now expected to make decisions on everything from business reporting and data analytics (56%) to diversity, equity and inclusion (DE&I) (42%).

Lenovo’s global study found that many are also worried that investment in innovation will ‘dry up’, leaving them unable to achieve their many goals, with 83% concerned that they will be left with insufficient budget.

There are three challenges CIOs are currently contending with. Investing in the right technology can help ease the burden and deal with some of the key issues they face, including the evolving workplace, artificial intelligence (AI) and sustainability.

Challenge #1: The digital workplace

Technology is woven into every part of the modern workplace, functioning like a nervous system which joins together corporate strategy, operations, finance and innovation.

This in turn loads more challenges onto CIOs, who are grappling with recruitment and retention (59%), managing a remote workforce (59%), and diversity, equity, and inclusion (55%).

The technology environment is also changing, with employees now using two devices on average, combined with a sharp increase in ‘bring your own device’ usage.

For IT leaders, technology can help to bring simplicity to this shifting landscape. Optimising endpoints using one centralised platform helps to bring order to the chaos.

This means that IT teams can focus on business-critical tasks, with end users enjoying a better experience, optimised by AI.

Meanwhile, ‘as-a-service’ models offer the flexibility and simplicity to empower teams with the technology they need, in a simple, scalable pay-as-you-go model.

As-a-service models allow businesses to stay up to date with the latest and greatest technology, meaning that employees are never held back by older devices, and that less secure devices are not as likely to be used in the workplace.

Lenovo’s research found that as-a-service options were highly popular with CIOs, with 92% saying they would consider adding new offerings over the next two years.

This provides them with the flexibility to deploy hardware and software with ease, eliminating bottlenecks and freeing up teams to innovate rapidly and supercharge business strategy.

Challenge #2: Building intelligence

The current boom in generative AI has sparked a level of excitement around technology not seen since the dawn of the smartphone era. For CIOs, this poses further challenges: there is high expectation for organisations to engage proactively with AI, and for the technology to deliver business results, fast.

The demand to engage with this emerging technology is very real, with 43% of CIOs saying they felt ‘urgent pressure’ to deal with AI.

But it’s not simply a case of buying solutions and sitting back and waiting for results: AI has to be used effectively.

Edge computing technology helps to bring AI to the data source and will be hugely important for any organisations hoping to reap the benefits through cutting-edge applications such as virtual assistants, generative AI and computer vision.

With edge computing, organisations can gain AI-powered insights right where data is created, which can be immediately used to improve outcomes across store aisles, manufacturing floors, hospital rooms and service desks all over the world.

Edge AI computing can also process thousands of data points in real-time to gain the insights required to make decisions.

In customer service, for instance, it can analyse data to make live recommendations for personalised products and services, or identify issues before they become pain points, enhancing the overall experience.

Technology that delivers data centre-like computing to the edge will be crucial to delivering improved experiences in industries from tourism to retail, as well as improved emergency response and public safety.

Challenge #3: Maintaining sustainability

In previous decades, sustainability has not fallen within the traditional purview of IT leadership. But with increasing attention on the issues such as e-waste, and the emissions associated with data centres, thinking about environmental, social and governance (ESG) issues is yet another responsibility on the shoulders of today’s CIOs.

With data centres responsible for up to 1.5% of global electricity use, according to the International Energy Agency, it’s critical that CIOs engage with technologies such as water cooling to increase efficiency and reduce electricity demand.

Modern workloads mean that older air-cooling technologies now struggle to keep up while becoming very expensive.

Liquid cooling technologies will be an important factor in responsible computing going forward and will also enable the sustainable supercomputers which will be crucial to tackling the challenges of climate change.

Decision-makers in IT must also be bold and move beyond the ‘make, use, destroy’ of the linear economy to the ‘design, use, return’ approach of the circular economy.

The world produces 50 million tonnes of e-waste every year, and just a fifth of this is recycled.

Asset recovery services (ARS) will be key to this, helping to find the most efficient and clean ways to deal with hardware at the end of its service life, whether that’s using the parts in manufacturing, refurbishing, reusing or environmentally friendly scrappage.

For CIOs grappling with the challenges of sustainability, the flexibility of ‘device as a service’ models, where devices are recycled or repurposed at the end of their service life, can also help switch to more efficient, environmentally friendly hardware without up-front capital outlay.

Meeting the challenge

CIOs currently face challenges that would have been almost unimaginable 20 years ago, with responsibilities spanning everything from DE&I to ESG.

Shouldering this increasing burden and being more central to an organisation’s success than ever before, it’s no wonder that it can feel like a lonely battle.

Thankfully, choosing the right technologies can make the role easier and empower CIOs to innovate, making a real difference for the business.

The assembly plant, operated by East Africa Device Assembly Kenya Limited (EADAK), a joint venture of local Mobile Network Operators Safaricom and Jamii Telecommunications, along with Chinese mobile device dealer Shenzhen TeleOne Technology, aims to produce affordable 4G-enabled smartphones for consumers in Kenya.

The newly launched smartphones, Neon Smarta and Neon Ultra, are part of the government’s initiative to enhance digital literacy and connectivity across the nation. The devices, originally proposed to be priced at $40, are now available at a retail price of $50, slightly higher than the initial projection. Despite the price adjustment, these smartphones offer an affordable option for many Kenyans, especially considering their features and capabilities.

“This assembly plant will support the government’s agenda to enhance digital inclusion in the country. We have been able to achieve affordability through a collaborative approach that comprises industry partnership and favorable government policies,” stated Joshua Chepkwony, Chairman of EADAK.

The Neon Smarta and Neon Ultra smartphones were built with 5-inch and 6.5-inch display respectively, both equipped with 2 GB of RAM, 32 GB internal storage, and 4G support. 

The phones are part of a broader digital literacy program, which has already trained 300,000 individuals in 2023. These devices are important components of Kenya’s digital transformation agenda, with plans for more products, including locally assembled tablets, in the pipeline for the coming months.

The assembly line is expected to generate between 300 and 500 direct jobs, contributing significantly to the local economy. With an estimated monthly production volume of 21,000 phones, the assembly plant is set to produce between 1.2 million and 1.4 million smartphones annually, meeting the growing demand for affordable mobile devices in the country.

Safaricom and Faiba, two leading telecommunications companies in Kenya, will be instrumental in distributing the locally assembled smartphones. The devices will be available nationwide at Faiba stores, dealer outlets, Safaricom stores, and the Masoko online platform, ensuring accessibility for consumers across the country.

In the face of increasing smartphone prices, this initiative is ideal in fostering digital literacy, connectivity, and economic growth. Kenya is scaling on technological advancement and these locally assembled smartphones will make a significant impact, bridging the digital divide and empowering citizens in the face of digitization.

With the current number of smartphone users standing at 6.92 billion globally according to Statista 2023, 86.29% of the world’s population own a smartphone. 

Countless options of smartphones are available in the market. When you think you’ve found the right one, you’re introduced to better options, making the process of choosing the right smartphone a daunting task. 

To help you make an informed decision, we have compiled a list of essential tips to consider when selecting a smartphone that best suits your needs. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that you invest in a device that enhances your daily life and caters to your specific requirements.

1. Determine Your Budget

Before diving into the vast sea of smartphones, it’s crucial to establish your budget. Smartphones come in various price ranges, from budget-friendly options to high-end flagships. By setting a budget, you can narrow down your choices and focus on devices that align with your financial capacity.

2. Assess Your Usage Requirements

Consider how you primarily use your smartphone. Are you a photography enthusiast, a social media addict, or a gaming aficionado? Identify the key features and specifications that are important to you. For example, if you enjoy mobile photography, prioritize a smartphone with an excellent camera system and image processing capabilities. If you’re a heavy gamer, look for a device with a powerful processor and ample RAM.

3. Operating System

The choice between iOS and Android is a significant factor when selecting a smartphone. Both operating systems have their own strengths and weaknesses. iOS offers a polished and user-friendly experience, with seamless integration across Apple devices. On the other hand, Android provides a more customizable interface, wider device variety, and compatibility with Google services. Consider your familiarity with the operating system and ecosystem, as well as the apps and services you prefer to use.

4. Display Size and Quality

Smartphone displays come in various sizes and technologies. Larger displays provide a better multimedia and gaming experience, while smaller ones offer portability and ease of use. Additionally, consider the display quality in terms of resolution, brightness, and color accuracy. A vibrant and sharp display enhances your overall smartphone experience.

5. Battery Life

Battery life is a critical aspect, especially for users who are always on the go or frequently travel. Look for smartphones with larger battery capacities and efficient power management. User reviews and expert opinions can provide insights into a device’s battery performance.

6. Storage Capacity and Expandability

Evaluate your storage needs based on the number of apps, photos, videos, and files you plan to store on your smartphone. Choose a device with adequate internal storage, or alternatively, one that offers expandable storage options through a microSD card slot. Cloud storage options may also be worth considering.

7. Camera Quality

For many users, smartphone photography is a primary consideration. Pay attention to factors such as megapixel count, aperture size, image stabilization, low-light performance, and the presence of additional camera sensors like ultra-wide or telephoto lenses. Online camera comparisons and sample images can give you an idea of a smartphone’s camera capabilities.

8. Consider Reviews and Recommendations

Before finalizing your decision, read reviews from reputable sources and user feedback. Expert reviews can provide valuable insights into a smartphone’s performance, durability, and software experience. Additionally, seek recommendations from friends or online communities who have firsthand experience with the device you are considering.

Choosing the right smartphone is a personal decision that should be based on your unique needs and preferences. Remember to balance the features you need with the ones you truly desire, ensuring that your smartphone becomes a valuable companion in your daily life.

A report from McKinsey, for example, found that the number of African tech startups tripled between 2020 and 2021.  

Nigeria and Ghana’s West African economic powerhouses are no exception to that economic fervour. World Bank data shows that 97,988 new businesses were registered in Nigeria in 2020, and in Ghana (with a population about a sixth as big as Nigeria’s) 18000 new businesses were forecast to be started in 2022. 

Those businesses will, of course, be crucial to the region’s ongoing economic growth. But if you’re one of the entrepreneurs behind those businesses, you’ll know that success is far from guaranteed.

That makes it critical that you do everything possible to ensure your business is primed for growth. And one of the most effective ways of doing so is to embrace digital marketing and that you get it right from day one. 

Digital is still growing in importance, for everyone 

That’s especially true when you consider how rapidly internet and smartphone penetration has grown in the region in recent years.

Research suggests that there are more than 155 million internet users in Nigeria, representing 55.4% of the population and just under 17 million users in Ghana, representing 53% of the population. And as more and more undersea cables land on the continent, making internet access more affordable and ubiquitous, those numbers will keep growing. 

The same is true of smartphones. According to Statista, smartphone penetration in Nigeria grew 10% between 2019 and 2022, hitting just over 37%, and is set to grow another 10% by 2027. While it’s difficult to find equivalent numbers for Ghana, it’s worth noting that nearly 100% of internet users there have a smartphone. 

In other words, a sizable portion of any Nigerian or Ghanaian business’s customers are already online and an even more considerable portion will be in the very near future. So in order to reach them, that business has to be online too.  

Of course, many early-stage entrepreneurs, in particular, either need help figuring out where to start with digital marketing or feel like they can’t afford it. Those barriers do not, however, have to be challenging to overcome. 

As Gaston Taratuta, Founder and CEO of Aleph Group, Inc points out, you can build up digital marketing expertise relatively quickly. 

“To become an expert in digital marketing, you have to be curious and certify yourself on digital platforms for free,” he says. “Learn things like Google Adwords; learn to do marketing on different social media platforms like Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok. This can be achieved in more or less six months, and you can then put what you have learned into practice.” 

As he further points out, building this expertise is already key to thriving as an entrepreneur and will be even more important in the near future. 

Additionally, digital marketing is one of the most effective ways for any business to build awareness and engagement with both existing and potential customers. It’s also more targeted, meaning you can get a greater return on investment. 

Using the right partner 

As important as it is for entrepreneurs to understand the effectiveness of digital marketing and at least have a basic grasp of how to use them, it’s also important to remember that they don’t have to do it alone. 

The right media buying partner will help ensure that they’re on the right platforms and are reaching their intended customer bases.

They’ll also understand that a business doesn’t always have a major marketing budget and will get it started advertising with relatively small amounts, keeping costs to a predefined frame. Many partners that Aleph is working with additionally offer ‘trial’ budgets at lower minimum costs to allow new advertisers to give it a go and see if they gain value from it. Remember, if they see the same potential in a business as an entrepreneur, they’ll want to grow with it. 

No reason to wait 

Ultimately, it should be clear that African entrepreneur s can supercharge their growth journeys by embracing digital marketing. Moreover, they can get to grips with it relatively quickly and can affordably get help in maximising their digital marketing efforts.