Hands-On with the #GalaxyFold: A Form Factor with a New User Experience @SamsungMobileSA

Hi Friends,

Samsung captured the imagination of the world with its recently released category-defining flagship smartphone, the Galaxy Fold. At IFA 2019, visitors had the unique opportunity to experience the Galaxy Fold for the very first time.

For those who were not able to experience this, the video above provides a look at what a hands-on experience of the Galaxy Fold looks like for users.

The Galaxy Fold’s unique design and foldable form factor, providing you with two options for screen size in one device, provides a brand-new user experience. When closed, you can comfortably access all your essential apps with just one hand. But when opened, the 7.3-inch Infinity Flex Display offers a truly immersive viewing experience, allowing you to get lost in videos on a screen that’s so big, you won’t believe you can fit it in a pocket. From the camera to the gallery to the latest gaming apps, users can enjoy next-level experiences with their favourite content on the spacious screen of the main display just by opening up the device.

In order to facilitate maximum productivity and ease of use when switching between the Galaxy Fold’s two displays, Samsung developed two features especially: App Continuity and Multi-Active Window. With App Continuity, you can switch between using an app on the cover display and using it on the main display seamlessly. For example, you can check an email when the device is folded, and then, when you open the device to reply, a version of the email app that is optimised for the expansive screen will open, allowing you to comfortably view the full contents of the email. Following the uninterrupted screen transition, you can then reply to the email using the keyboard, which is optimised for placement near each of your hands.

Multi-Active Window allows you to take advantage of the increased screen real state of the main display, as you can open multiple apps simultaneously and easily use them at the same time thanks to an optimized UX for next-level multitasking. Whilst reading an email, you can easily drag and drop your Calendar as well as Google Maps from the device’s side panel into the Multi-Active Window to work in three windows simultaneously and coordinate a meeting quickly and efficiently. You can also easily adjust the dimensions of each app window so as to see more, or less, as you require.

Cheers!!!

Contact me at thelifesway@gmail.com or editor@thelifesway.com to collaborate on your products, events, and services. #TheLifesWay #PhotoYatra!

Celebrating a Mom-in-Tech: Claire Carter @Lenovo_Africa Marketing Director for the MEA Region

Hi Friends, 

Claire Carter, Lenovo’s Marketing Director for MEA, chats about the business benefits of having more women in the tech industry and why Lenovo sees this as a priority.

1. When you started at Lenovo two years ago, you had spent nearly two decades in the FMCG industry, working for brands like KFC and Flora. From a gender balance perspective, what first struck you about the differences between working for a consumer technology company and an FMCG company?

CC: Tech is undoubtedly more of a male-dominated field, particularly in the Middle East region, which was very different from what I was used to in FMCG. But I moved to this industry because I wanted to be part of the digital revolution, as technology becomes more and more embedded in our everyday lives. It wasn’t an easy switch to make, but I was drawn to Lenovo particularly because of their focus on supporting women in their leadership journeys.

2. Only 25% of people working in the tech industry are female. What do you think is the reason for this?

CC: Certain fields have a gender-skewed legacy; for example, historically technology has been seen as a ‘male’ industry, just as areas like teaching have been regarded as ‘female’. It’s precisely this legacy that the Women in Lenovo @ Leadership (WILL) network are redressing by focusing on hiring, retaining, mentoring and promoting women. Thirty percent of Lenovo’s workforce is female, which is above the industry average.

3. Why do you think gender balance is crucial for companies, and specifically tech organizations?

CC: There have been many studies showing that gender-balanced teams perform far better than those that are dominated by just men or just women. Diversity in all forms – whether we’re talking about gender, or ethnicity, or age – is always beneficial for companies. Quite simply, diversity of approach delivers better results. For example, women generally go about their daily tasks differently to men and deal with people differently.

This gender balance is crucial for the tech industry, in particular, bearing in mind that 60 to 80 percent of consumer buying decisions are made by women. It’s important that we focus on the human aspect of our devices, i.e. what they can do to enhance your life, rather than just the technical specifications. Lenovo ensures that women are a part of our product focus panels right from the design phase.

Claire Carter_Lenovo Marketing Director, PC & Smart Devices Group, Middle East and Africa

4. What do you really love about your job and working at Lenovo?

CC: Leading a marketing team is not my only job; I am also a mom, and Lenovo helps me to be present and productive in both roles. I’m not judged on the number of hours I spend at my desk but rather evaluated on my outputs. I love our agile culture, which is leaps ahead of other companies. I have flexibility so I can pick the kids up from school in the middle of the day if I need to, and a team I can count on to keep things running smoothly while I’m out of the office. Lenovo empowers its people and in this way gets the best out of everyone.

5. What has been your personal experience with the Women in Lenovo Leadership’ (WILL) network?

CC: Lenovo established WILL back in 2007 as a global platform for local initiatives to support women in our company to succeed. To be honest, I didn’t realize how important it was for me personally to be part of a programme like this one until I started to become actively involved in WILL. You don’t know what a meaningful role you can play in paying it forward to other women until you get the opportunity to do so.

6. Are there any women working in the tech space who you admire and why?

CC: I’m a great fan of Sheryl Sandberg, the CEO of Facebook. In her TED talk, “Why we have too few women leaders”, she focuses on the gender battle of confidence versus competence.

Men are just better at selling themselves, while women inherently lack confidence, even though they possess the skills needed to do a job effectively. This notion really resonates with me, and it’s something I tackle through my work with WILL and also as a facilitator for Google’s I Am Remarkable initiative, which focuses on women empowerment.

7. What three tips would you offer another woman who wants to work in the tech industry?

CC: Firstly, make sure you have a team you can count on and trust. Secondly, find a reverse mentor, i.e. someone younger than you who knows more about the ever-changing world of tech and can help you navigate through areas you need to build know-how on. Finally – be brave! Sit proudly at that boardroom table and don’t be shy to say your piece.

8. Why would you encourage women to consider roles in the tech space?

CC: Why would you want to work anywhere else?! Tech isn’t just a small department in your company, it’s how we all run our lives, both personally and professionally. It’s exciting to be a part of an industry that simplifies people’s lives and empowers them with tools, especially when working for a respected and innovative leader in the tech space like Lenovo.

Cheers!!!

Contact me at thelifesway@gmail.com or editor@thelifesway.com to collaborate on your products, events, and services. #TheLifesWay #PhotoYatra!

In the Market for A New Car? Tips to Ensure You Don’t Buy a Box of Troubles #ImperialAuto

Hi Friends, 

Once you have made the decision to buy a car, it is tempting to want to get it NOW! The fact, however, is that buying a car is a big purchase and it is advisable to contain your excitement. It is also a good idea to do some research and tick some boxes in order to eliminate the chances of buying yourself a box of troubles. According to an article on Forbes.com, the number one mistake made when purchasing a vehicle is not doing your homework![1]

Do that homework

Start off by knowing the market value of the car you like before you consider buying. Knowing the market value, for both new and second-hand options, will allow you to tell whether the seller is overcharging or not. It’s also a great idea to look at reviews of the car you prefer to see what drivers are saying about it. It’s also a good idea to get an idea of the upkeep and maintenance costs too. It is best to go into the sale equipped with all the knowledge available to you.

What questions should you ask the seller?

It’s really important that you ask direct questions about the car. Some private sellers may think that they can sucker you into buying a problem car.

The questions you should ask include:

• How old is the car?
• How many previous owners have there been?
• How many kilometers has the car done?
• Does it have a full-service history?
• Has the car been in any accidents? 
• Does the car have an existing warranty or maintenance plan? 

You will need to ensure that you receive honest answers to these questions, so it is a good idea to take someone experienced with you.

Perform an inspection and test drive

Dealerships, who are part of the Imperial Auto group allow customers to perform inspections, but with a private seller, this might be difficult to arrange. If you are able to arrange an inspection of the car with the seller, then you will need to inspect it both internally and externally for any damages or irregularities. 

During your test drive, you will need to listen out for any strange noises coming from the engine. You will also need to feel the suspension and note how the steering and brakes feel on both town roads and on the highway.

Taking a car for a test drive at a dealer, as an Imperial Auto dealer is really easy to arrange. Just don’t forget to take your valid driver’s license with.

Inspect the paperwork

Even if the car looks great, drives well and the price is right, the next vital step in the buying process is to inspect the paperwork. Ask to see the ownership documents and any service documents, and the car logbook. The benefit of buying your car through a reputable dealer is that they make sure all of that is done for you.

For more useful info on purchasing your first car visit: https://imperialauto.co.za/first-time-buyer and join the conversation on Facebook - https://web.facebook.com/imperial.auto.sa.

[1] https://www.forbes.com/pictures/ehlg45edej/mistake-1-not-doing-your-homework/#2f79a77d18d1

Cheers!!!

Contact me at thelifesway@gmail.com or editor@thelifesway.com to collaborate on your products, events, and services. #TheLifesWay #PhotoYatra! 

The Expo Industry in #SouthAfrica: An Insider’s View By Mr. Craig Newman, CEO, Johannesburg Expo Centre

Hi Friends, 

From MamaMagic to the Vodacom rAge Expo and HuntEx to SA Fashion Week, there are exhibitions for so many different niches in South Africa every year. And for the most part, the exhibition industry is showing no signs of slowing down. 

One of the most recent events, Vodacom rAge, is a perfect example of the extent to which likeminded people will turn out in support of an event that plays to their unique interests. 

Several exhibitors reported that they did so well, they had run out of stock by day three of the event. 

Vodacom rAge caters to a very specific niche – the toys, gaming, sci-fi, and fantasy market. According to PR Newswire, the global toys and games market is expected to expand at a Compound Annual Growth rate (CAGR) of 4.6% between now and 2025. 

That’s just one example of a powerful niche market that’s gaining ground year-on-year. 

Exhibitions are focused on marketing opportunities that bring your target market to you and allow you to network with your audience for ongoing sales. They’re fostering niche pocket economies everywhere. 

Expo trends now 

Other niches are also on the rise, and the exhibition circuit is a great opportunity to capitalize on consumer interest, even in a struggling economy. 

It’s not just the big ones that are doing well. Smaller-scale exhibitions are also seeing an increase in attendance. For example, broadcasting, entertainment and communications technology expo, Mediatech Africa, attracted 7525 visitors in July this year – a six-percent increase over last year, with 701 brands on display and 148 exhibiting companies. 

South Africans love a good exhibition. We’re a culture of hobbyists and weekend project collectors who love to turn up for a day out at an expo centre to consult the experts who know about the things we like, buy the latest and greatest goods and enjoy fine fare from food trucks, donut stands, and boerewors roll sellers. 

Having attended many varying exhibitions myself, as an industry professional and exhibition enthusiast, I can confidently say that we’re in a business that’s growing every year. Trade shows, conferences, and exhibitions contribute to the local economy, boost tourism and enhance South Africa’s GDP. 

Exhibitions truly tap into the South African entrepreneurial spirit. An article published by Fin24 in 2018 states that visiting business delegates – many of them here for conferences or exhibitions – contribute around R115bn to our GDP annually. 

The feelgood factor 

The common denominator, whether you’re at Africa Health, Discop Africa or Vodacom rAge, for the most part, is the positive energy you encounter as you wander between the stands and showpieces at most South African expos and shows. 

The Rand Show in April this year completely changed lives with a local entrepreneur making a whopping sale of over R500 000. And it’s a testament to the fact that destination shows can provide a captive audience for exhibitors. In this case, it was the Rand Show’s dedicated SMME section, activated by the South African Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development. And I’m sure we can expect many more stories like this one to come. 

What does the future hold? 

New tools and technology are making the exhibition business more exciting than ever before. Dedicated event management software is making it easier for organizers and exhibitors to plan their efforts to the letter, and electronic booking or ticketing solutions have done away with a human error when it comes to letting people in and out. 

Mobile technology is becoming more and more prevalent every year, with just about every big expo having its own dedicated app to help guests navigate their event and stay up to date with any panels, showstoppers or press events that are scheduled during an expo. 

Digital design and the advent of technologies such as 3D printing have made stands easier to create, set up and strike, not to mention more appealing to the eye than ever before. And if you’re not that keen on the crowds, who knows? There may be more Virtual Reality expo experiences coming up sooner rather than later. 

At the time of writing this, having seen the faces of the people in the crowds at the likes of the Rand Show, Vodacom rAge, the Design Indaba and more, exhibitions are still putting smiles on faces. And every year, they just get bigger and more advanced. Stay tuned for 2020’s exhibition circuit. It’s going to be the most impressive yet.

Cheers!!!

Contact me at thelifesway@gmail.com or editor@thelifesway.com to collaborate on your products, events, and services. #TheLifesWay #PhotoYatra! 

Financing a New Car? Tips to Ensure You Get the Best Deal…#ImperialAuto

Hi Friends, 

Purchasing a brand-new car is really exciting – and once you have made the decision you are likely to want to get your car NOW! Be careful not to let your excitement interfere with financing option decisions. Here are some tips from Imperial Auto to ensure that find you the best finance deal possible.

• Speak to the finance and insurance (F&I) manager at your nearest dealership. This will allow you to interact with a specialist and clarify any questions you may have. They can also assess your specific situation and offer you advice on structuring your finance agreement.
• Ensure you structure your deal the best way for you. Here are some options: 
• Deposit – paying a deposit reduces your monthly repayment. If this is possible – it would be a smart move to make from the get-go!
• Fixed VS linked interest rate – during periods when interest rates fluctuate, you may want to consider discussing a fixed rate with your bank. This option has pros and cons to consider.
• The contract period – remember that a longer period reduces the monthly instalments but attracts more interest payable over the period. This is entirely based on what you can afford on a monthly basis.
• Balloon payment – opting for a balloon payment means that you will need to settle a lump sum in order to own the vehicle at the end of the contract period. Although a balloon payment will reduce your monthly repayments, it increases the financial burden at the end of the contract period. You need to be consciously aware of the future implications of this type of deal structure.
• There are a range of insurance products available that cover both the car (warranties, service and maintenance plans) as well as yourself (death, disability and retrenchment cover) which you can consider. Whichever you choose, would depend on your personal situation as well as the car you intend buying.

The F&I will submit a single application to all the banks and obtain quotes from the various banks on your behalf, thereby making the process transparent for you to choose the best interest rate.

There’s no guarantee that you will be approved for vehicle finance, but there are things you can ensure you do which will help improve credit health and greatly increase the chances of being granted credit. 

1. Work out your affordability 

Find out how much you can afford to spend on a car. To do this, simply take your income (after taxes and deductions) and subtract all living expenses. These costs must be deducted from your total income to find out your disposable income.

2. Don’t forget the running costs 

Affording a car isn’t just about the monthly installment. Fuel, maintenance, and insurance are additional monthly expenses that need to be budgeted for.

According to an article on Business Insider, the latest motor trade sales from Statistics South Africa show that South Africans are spending more on fuel than on buying new vehicles. [1]

3. Save up for a deposit 

Financial responsibility reflects well on your credit profile and will assist in ensuring your finance application will be approved. If you’ve shown the bank that you can budget responsibly, you’ll really impress them with a deposit. Paying a deposit reduces the amount of credit required for the transaction which, means lower monthly repayments and improved affordability.

4. Get rid of unnecessary debt 

The National Credit Act requires the bank to take all credit facilities into account, so your credit card and overdraft debt is assessed. These figures are used in assessing your affordability.

For more useful info on purchasing a car visit: https://imperialauto.co.za and join the conversation on Facebook - https://web.facebook.com/imperial.auto.sa.

[1]https://www.businessinsider.co.za/south-africans-now-spend-more-on-fuel-than-on-new-cars-2018-7

Cheers!!!

Contact me at thelifesway@gmail.com or editor@thelifesway.com to collaborate on your products, events, and services. #TheLifesWay #PhotoYatra! 

Public or Private transport? Factors to consider…#ImperialAuto

Hi Friends, 

For many people, using public transport is a part of daily life. Even if the opportunity is there to purchase their own vehicle – many choose to rather stick to the public transport option. There are various reasons for this decision, one of which is that, for them, it remains the most cost-effective option. 

In the 2018 General Household Survey (GHS), findings obtained revealed that 54.2million minibus/taxi trips are undertaken by South Africans on a monthly basis. followed by 11million commuters using bus transport and commuter rail operations are made up of 6million. [1]

Cost, location and lifestyle – are some of the primary factors to consider when selecting the best mode of transport, and whether to buy a car or utilize public transport.

Cost

Cost is the biggest consideration when deciding on a means of transport. One needs to weigh up the cost of buying a car vs using public transport.

There are direct and indirect costs which should be taken into consideration for private transport:

• Direct costs:
• Financing
• Interest on a bank loan
• Monthly installments
• Warranties and insurances
• Indirect costs:
• Vehicle maintenance
• Vehicle depreciation
• Fuel consumption

Public transport costs vary depending on the mode of transport (bus, train, taxi, and the more expensive Uber) and where you live, but it is most often significantly more cost-effective than private transport.

Location and convenience

The main factor when considering transport options is the area you live in and the proximity of where you live, vs where you work.

The convenience factor can be affected when you look at transport outside of working hours when the options decrease. Most buses and taxis only operate until a certain time, and then there are options like Uber which offers the convenience and flexibility of private transport, but it is not as cost-effective as the previously mentioned options.

Lifestyle

Owning a car offers you a lot more freedom and flexibility over your own life, but besides flexibility, there are still other factors to be taken into account like:

1. Do you need to transport goods or people?

2. Is it safe for you to use public transport in your area? OR Can you afford a safe and reliable car?

3. Do you need to travel out of normal public transport hours?

4. How much mobility do you require? (private transport offers maximum mobility whenever you need it).

5. Can you afford to purchase a car AND the monthly costs associated with owning a car

Should you establish that the time is right for you to purchase a pre-owned car, do some research on what is available online. You will find some amazing options through Imperial Auto.

Here are 5 tips to help you when making your car purchasing decisions:

1. Make sure you research first! Establish what kind of vehicle will best suit your needs AND fall into your affordability bracket

2. Work out your budget, taking long term monthly costs into consideration – and stick to that budget

3. Understand financing options

4. Visit a reputable dealership

5. Test drive the vehicle

For more useful tips on purchasing your first car, join the conversation on Facebook - https://web.facebook.com/imperialauto.co.za/

Ref 1 https://www.southafricanmi.com/Transport-per-province-27jun2018.html

Cheers!!!

Contact me at thelifesway@gmail.com or editor@thelifesway.com to collaborate on your products, events, and services. #TheLifesWay #PhotoYatra! 

Road Tripping Checklists to Make Your Next Trip Great #ImperialAuto

Hi Friends, 

The holiday season is nearly upon us, and for many, the excitement starts with the road trip to your vacation destination. Road tripping is fun… however, if you are unprepared, they can take a nasty turn for the worst.

In reality, a road trip needs careful planning with a number of things taken into consideration. Check out this road trip checklist from Imperial Auto!

First things first………

1. Do a pre-travel car check

It’s a good idea to do a few quick checks to make sure your car is road-trip-ready. It will only take a few minutes but could save you a lot of trouble. Here’s what you need to check:

• Fluids (oil, break-fluid, water and coolant) – this is an under-the-bonnet check
• Leaks – following the under-the-bonnet checks of the fluid levels, it is a good idea to check for any leaks from various components and hoses underneath your car
• Lights – check all globes, including brake lights
• Wipers – ensure the wipers are clearing the water from the windscreen
• Wheels and tyres – check the tread and the pressure. Also, check the steering to see if the vehicle pulls to one side
• Spare wheel – make sure you have one and that it is properly inflated. Also, ensure you have a jack and spanner and while you are at it add in jumper cables
• Brake pads – the composite inner part needs to be above 5mm thick. Also, make sure your handbrake is working correctly
• Ensure vehicle registration is up to date

If you have no idea how to check these things – or if you know your vehicle is needing a bit of a service rather book it into your nearest reputable service centre.

2. Eliminate towing troubles

If you are towing a caravan or trailer be sure to tow the line with these checks:

• Ensure compatibility between your vehicle and the trailer or caravan you’re towing
• Make sure it is roadworthy and that you have the correct license
• Ensure that all the necessary components are in place and that they are in good working order. These components include: the tongue, the hitch, the coupler, safety chains, and brake and lights systems
• Driving with a trailer or caravan generally requires increased concentration. Ensure you have enough space to overtake and remember that making turns are more difficult

3. Have a plan

Although throwing caution to the wind and driving off into the sunset spontaneously sounds romantic and fun… planning things out is a much safer option. Here are some things to consider:

• Decide what route you are going to take and work out estimated travel time. Make sure you know the directions
• Plan what time of day would work better for you to travel
• Plot rest stops and decide if you need to sleep overnight somewhere to break up the trip
• Pre-book overnight accommodation

4. Don’t forget to remember

When you are making your list of what clothes and holiday essentials to pack – make a separate list of these important road trip travel necessities:

• Valid driver’s license
• Valid vehicle registration
• Money for toll gates
• Petrol card
• Music
• Cell phone charger
• Items to entertain the kids
• Refreshments
• Extra water
• First aid kit

For more useful car tips visit our blog and join the conversation on Facebook - https://web.facebook.com/imperialauto.co.za/

Cheers!!!

Contact me at thelifesway@gmail.com or editor@thelifesway.com to collaborate on your products, events, and services. #TheLifesWay #PhotoYatra! 

@Acer_Education Renews The Innovative School Program for 2020 #AcerInnovativeSchools @AcerAfrica

Hi Friends, 

• Acer Innovative School Program will be renewed for 2020 to support schools in their path towards digital transformation 
• Acer for Education will meet the schools participating in the program at the Teachers Advisory Council in Barcelona
• The goal of the program is to support schools commitment to using technology to transform teaching and learning
• Acer Project Humanity winner will be announced

Acer for Education renews the Innovative School Program for 2020 and will meet the schools participating in the program at the Teachers Advisory Council in Barcelona. It will be a two-day event that brings together teachers from across EMEA, giving them the opportunity to share ideas and learn how technology can help improve learning outcomes.

Technology is an enabler. It allows to break down barriers as it helps teachers to develop new, immersive and inclusive learning experiences. As a result, more and more schools that have integrated technology in their approach to teaching and learning are finding how it helps students to boost their critical thinking and problem-solving skills, learn anytime, anywhere and improve academic results.

Acer for Education Innovative School Program is a tribute to those schools that have embraced technology as a means to give students new personalized and engaging ways to learn the abilities they will need to succeed in school and life. The program is targeted to all EMEA schools that are taking the path of digital transformation. Whether they are just starting or are pioneers, these schools are committed to helping each student to reach their potential and follow their dreams through innovation and technology.

Schools enrolled in the Acer Innovative School program can enjoy several benefits:

Teachers from Acer Innovative Schools are invited to attend the EMEA Teachers Advisory Council, where they can meet with peers, listen to education experts and participate in training sessions

Schools can participate in webinars covering a range of topics to keep up-to-date with the latest trends and tools. Topics include mini-training on Windows and Chrome platforms and their apps.

Acer Innovative Schools can share their stories, achievements or experiences on Acer for Education’s blog and become a source of inspiration for other schools. What’s more, schools receive a monthly newsletter where they can find updates on technological contents, alliance partner news, demo program, and other initiatives.

Each Acer Innovative Schools receives 2 demo devices per year, so teachers and students are kept abreast of the latest technological innovations and can find out how they can help them achieve more.

Acer Project Humanity

Acer Innovative Schools are also encouraged to join the Acer Project Humanity, a new global initiative by Acer to bring humanity at the center of our activities and give back to communities and the environment.

By joining Acer Project Humanity Acer Innovative Schools have the chance to encourage students to develop a positive community-centered approach and experience the importance of engaging in “green” activities. Through their green activities, Acer Innovative Schools have the possibility of supporting the learning path of a Charity Education Organization of their choice.

Winning schools will be announced during the Teachers Advisory Council on November 21-23, 2019.

About Acer

Founded in 1976, today Acer is one of the world’s top ICT companies and has a presence in over 160 countries. As Acer looks into the future, it is focused on enabling a world where hardware, software and services will infuse with one another to open up new possibilities for consumers and businesses alike. From service-oriented technologies to the Internet of Things to gaming and virtual reality, Acer’s 7,000+ employees are dedicated to the research, design, marketing, sale, and support of products and solutions that break barriers between people and technology. Please visit www.acer.com for more information.

Cheers!!!

Contact me at thelifesway@gmail.com or editor@thelifesway.com to collaborate on your products, events, and services. #TheLifesWay #PhotoYatra! 

5 Tips for First-Time Car Buyers and New Drivers #ImperialAuto

Hi Friends, 

Learning how to drive and passing your driver’s license is a major life milestone. Now that you have that little card in your hands – the next step is to get your own set of wheels. 

Buying your first car can be quite daunting – that’s why we have put together these 5 tips to help you through the process: 

1. Do your research before and during the car-buying process

Car-buying research includes searching for the make and model of your desired car and making sure there aren’t any major consumer complaints, recalls, or safety-related defects. Just because you like the look doesn’t mean it’s a good first-time car. It’s important to keep your emotions at bay when researching your ideal first vehicle. Research the costs of fuel consumption, maintenance, and repairs.

2. Establish a budget

Be realistic with your car budget. If you have to pay for the car yourself, this is an important time to demonstrate responsibility. While the best option would be to pay cash, usually that’s just not possible. Most car buyers need some sort of financing.

Remember that you don’t only need enough for the monthly repayments, you also need to take into account: insurance, maintenance, registration, repairs and of course petrol. South Africans currently spend more on fuel than on new cars.¹ 

With this in mind, it may take you some time to figure out what car you can, but it’s definitely worth it.

3. Look for Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles

Certified pre-owned vehicles are the best kind of used car you can buy. Instead of buying a new car, visit your nearest reputable car dealership and let them assist you in finding a pre-owned vehicle that’s right for you.

4. Inspect the car, inside and out

In addition to a visual inspection of the inside and outside of the vehicle, you’ll want to take it for a test drive. Now is the time to find out the history of the vehicle – ask questions like:

• How old is the vehicle?
• What mileage has it done?
• Does it have a full-service history?

For more info on what to look out for check out this article.

5. Secure financing

When financing your new vehicle, try to put at least 20% percent down. This makes it a lot less likely that you will default on your loan. The more money you put down, the more secure your purchase will be and the less your monthly repayments will be.

Before you approach a bank for a loan, check with the dealership. They often have better financing options if you are purchasing the car from them. And since all the payments and purchases come from one place, it makes things a lot simpler.

For more useful tips on purchasing your first car visit blog and join the conversation on Facebook - https://web.facebook.com/imperialauto.co.za/

¹ https://www.businessinsider.co.za/south-africans-now-spend-more-on-fuel-than-on-new-cars-2018-7

Cheers!!!

Contact me at thelifesway@gmail.com or editor@thelifesway.com to collaborate on your products, events, and services. #TheLifesWay #PhotoYatra! 

The Future of #Audio Solutions is Almost Here in SA: Meet the new @HUAWEIza #FreeBuds3

Hi Friends, 

Digital music lovers are now moving beyond basic streaming services and are enjoying higher quality streaming that demands higher network speed and lower latency. The rise of audiobooks and podcasts are also shaping the market for earphones, as audio tracks require a level of sound quality for an optimal listening experience. The true wireless stereo headset will also become the norm in the 5G era. Huawei will be launching its flagship headset, the HUAWEI FreeBuds 3, in South Africa next week. They pick up the human voice efficiently for call quality that feels like a face-to-face conversation and supports active noise cancellation for immersive music experience. Here’s a sneak peek at the main features of the brand new HUAWEI FreeBuds 3.

Intelligent noise canceling

Keeping user behavior in mind, HUAWEI’s FreeBuds 3 is designed to provide active noise cancellation features, even in noisy environments, without compromising on comfort. The earphones use advanced technologies to filter ambient noise, thus blocking environmental interference for a more immersive and high-quality music and call experience, even in noisy environments such as malls and restaurants. The noise reduction effect is further complemented by the Open-fit TWS design, which makes the earphones more comfortable to wear.

The HUAWEI FreeBuds 3 also use a bone sensor feature that picks up vibrations of the head to better distinguish the user’s voice from background noise, further enhancing call quality by reducing ambient noise. To further improve call quality, the HUAWEI FreeBuds 3 use an aerodynamically designed wind cancellation microphone duct that reduces wind noise. This patented air tunnel blocks all wind, making the headphones effective to use outdoors.

Ultimate performance with Huawei’s wearable chipset

The HUAWEI FreeBuds 3 house the proprietary Kirin A1 chipset, the world’s first Bluetooth 5.1 and Bluetooth Low Energy 5.1 wearable chip designed by Huawei. The chip will ensure a stable and seamless connection to provide an overall enhanced experience, including better anti-interference, lower latency while gaming, a more stable connection and a smoother call experience anytime, anywhere. The chip also brings an immersive high-quality music listening experience, thanks to lower latency and better synchronization for audio and video. It is designed to provide optimum data sharing between the two earphones, while also greatly reducing power consumption for longer battery life.

Booming bass for studio-like sound quality

Premium quality music is one of the core focus areas of the HUAWEI FreeBuds 3. To deliver studio-grade music, the HUAWEI FreeBuds 3 are manufactured with customized acoustic components and innovative architecture developed by Huawei. The components and architecture work together to balance treble, middle and bass, while a custom-designed bass tube reproduces crystal clear details for a music experience like no other.

Long-lasting battery

Based on Huawei’s famed fast-charging technology, the HUAWEI FreeBuds 3 offer 2W SuperCharge technology. This supports both wired and wireless charging, allowing users to charge up with either a USB Type-C wire or a wireless charger. The HUAWEI FreeBuds 3 can also be charged with a HUAWEI smartphone that supports the wireless reverse charge, by simply placing the case on the back of the phone.

Utilizing the highly efficient power consumption of the Kirin A1 chip, HUAWEI FreeBuds 3 is able to provide four hours of playback from a single charge, and a total of 20 hours when used alongside the charging case.

Nature-inspired aesthetics

Available in black and white finishes, the HUAWEI FreeBuds 3 come in a pebble-shaped rounded charging case and are designed to fit comfortably in the user’s pocket or their hands. The case pops open for easy access to the HUAWEI FreeBuds 3 earpieces that have an ergonomic rounded curve with a natural open-fit design that ensures a comfortable and stable wearing experience while also housing a hidden power button in the middle of the right side. The ergonomic open-fit design not only fits better but also reduces stuffiness and discomfort, making it easier to wear in all scenarios, be it during your daily commute or while you’re at the office.

The HUAWEI FreeBuds 3 will be available from 2 December. RRP is R2,999.

Cheers!!!

Contact me at thelifesway@gmail.com or editor@thelifesway.com to collaborate on your products, events, and services. #TheLifesWay #PhotoYatra! 

Brock Lesnar: Who is He? and His Comeback to @WWE #WWENXT #SurvivorSeries

Hi Friends, 

Survivor Series is back this year and will feature an all-time favorite WWE Superstar, Brock Lesnar. Lesnar is one of WWE’s most-feared Superstars who is known for being ruthless in the ring and leading to his sinister title ‘The Beast Incarnate.’ He is also the only person in history to hold both UFC and WWE world titles. It was no doubt made for enthralling viewing when he went up against Rey Mysterio at Allstate Arena, Rosemont, Illinois, the United States on November 24th (from 00.00am South African time).

Shortly after his first foray into WWE, Lesnar became the youngest Superstar to win a WWE Championship at the age of 25 which he won in 2002 in a match against The Hardy Boyz, a tag team made up of real-life brothers Jeff and Matt Hardy who are currently signed to WWE. He stayed for four years until his initial retirement to pursue a career in the National Football League (NFL).

Lesnar impressed at the NFL Combine, a week-long showcase that occurs every February, where prospective football players perform physical and mental tests in front of coaches, general managers and scouts from NFL. That same year he was involved in a motorbike accident that left him with a broken left hand and jaw, pulled groin and bruised pelvis. He recovered from his injuries and went on to play for the Minnesota Vikings.

If NFL was not enough, Lesnar joined Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) in 2007 until his retirement in 2011 due to his struggles with diverticulitis. He later returned in 2015 and retired again in 2018.

During his time with WWE, Lesnar excelled and became so popular with the WWE Universe – how the WWE fanbase is widely referred to - that it resulted in a feud with The Undertaker. Lesnar and The Undertaker battled it out in a number of matches in which he won. Lesnar’s next feud was with WWE Superstar, John Cena. Cena claimed that Lesnar nearly ended his career and he even named his new finishing move the "F.U." as a way to throw a jab at Lesnar. However, the feud ended soon after at Backlash, a pay-per-view (PPV) event which took place on April 27th, 2003 with Lesnar defeating Cena and retaining the title.

In 2003, Lesnar met Bill Goldberg for the first time. He had an interview backstage claiming he can beat anyone before Goldberg interrupted him, introduced himself and there was a staredown between the two. This was the start of a rivalry between the two. Lesnar defeated Goldberg at the Royal Rumble on January 25th, 2004 using an F-5 to defeat him and retired that same year.

After his time away, Lesnar returned to WWE in 2012 on an episode of Raw. He took a break again this year after losing to his other biggest rival, Seth Rollins on SummerSlam which took place in August. Rollins attempted three stomps on Lesnar before defeating him to regain the title for the second time. This resulted in the end of his third title reign.

On Raw on September 30th, Lesnar returned and attacked Rey Mysterio and his son Dominic. At Crown Jewel, which recently took place on October 31st, he squared up against Cain Velasquez who wanted to get revenge for his godson, Dominic. However, Lesnar ended up winning the match.

With his history in WWE and his current beef with Rey Mysterio, their match-up at Survivor Series is set to be thrilling. Lesner seems to be back for good and we cannot wait to watch him for many more years to come.

Catch Brock Lesnar live as he goes up against Rey Mysterio at this year’s Survivor Series. Watch all the action on DSTV pop-up channel 128 or Supersport.

Cheers!!!
Contact me at thelifesway@gmail.com or editor@thelifesway.com to collaborate on your products, events, and services. #TheLifesWay #PhotoYatra! 

Spec Comparison: @SamsungMobileSA The #GalaxyNote10+ vs the #GalaxyNote9

Hi Friends, 

The Galaxy Note10 is a monumental release for the series that created the large-screen smartphone category. By taking the best-of-the-best technologies that the Note is known for to the next level, Samsung’s newest flagships empower users to do the same in both their work and daily lives.

Check out the infographic above to learn more about how Samsung enhanced the newest addition to the Galaxy family.

Cheers!!!

Contact me at thelifesway@gmail.com or editor@thelifesway.com to collaborate on your products, events, and services. #TheLifesWay #PhotoYatra! 

@HuaweiZA to Unveil Elegant #HUAWEIWATCHGT2 (42mm series)

Hi Friends, 

Pre-order special offer includes a free pair of Huawei FreeLace earphones

Huawei’s new and elegant 42mm series of the HUAWEI WATCH GT 2 will soon be available in South Africa at the end of November. This multi-sports smartwatch makes its mark by providing a look of empowered grace and uncompromised poise.

The HUAWEI WATCH GT 2 (42mm) delivers an enhanced user experience and solid battery life, thanks to the device’s ultra-low power consumption capability, pushing the boundaries of what is expected from a wearable.

Pre-order special on the Huawei e-commerce store

To promote this sleek edition of the fitness watch, Huawei has a pre-order special currently running on its e-commerce store. If you purchase the HUAWEI WATCH GT 2 (42mm) from 25 to 29 November, you will receive a free pair of Huawei FreeLace earphones (valued at R2 499).

Some of the useful features of the 42 series HUAWEI WATCH GT 2 include:

• The integrated 3D glass screen and the curved surface of the 42mm series have undergone artisanal polishing. Warm and feminine, standing still, the form is elegant and flows. The 9.4mm metal frame is beautiful and classic – creating a look of sleek, professional femininity.
• Ultra-low power consumption application processor and a separate power management unit.
• Bluetooth calls with phonebook functionality so you can save friends’ contact information on your watch.
• Music playback functionalities, with a large storage capacity of up to 500 mp3 songs.
• In daily use, the HUAWEI WATCH GT 2 (42mm) can operate continuously for up to one week when worn 24 hours a day, with heart rate monitoring enabled, HUAWEI TruSleepTM enabled for sleeping, 90 minutes of working out every week (GPS enabled), message notifications enabled (50 SMS messages and 3 alarms a day), the screen is turned on 200 times a day, and 30 minutes of music playing every week.
• In the sports mode, the HUAWEI WATCH GT 2 (42mm) is compatible with 15 sports, including eight outdoor sports (running, walking, climbing, hiking, trail running, cycling, open water, triathlon) and seven indoor sports (walking, running, cycling, swimming, free training, elliptical machine, rowing machine).
• The 42mm series provides targeted pre-exercise data analysis, data recording analysis during the exercise, and professional advice afterward. 
• The watch has precise location GPS tracking.
• The watch has 24/7 accurate real-time heart rate reminders, including swimming heart rate monitoring and heart rate warning.
• Monitoring of sleep quality, real-time heart rate, and sleep breathing quality. HUAWEI TruSleep™ 2.0 uses big data analysis to rate sleep quality, analyze sleep problems and provide sleep improvement suggestions. The watch also monitors stress levels and provides solutions for relieving stress.

Go to https://huaweistore.co.za/ to purchase your HUAWEI WATCH GT (42mm) now and take advantage of the pre-order special offer before 29 November 2019. RRP of the HUAWEI WATCH GT 2 (42mm) is R4499

Cheers!!!

Contact me at thelifesway@gmail.com or editor@thelifesway.com to collaborate on your products, events, and services. #TheLifesWay #PhotoYatra! 

Experience the #GalaxyNote10's Premium Display @SamsungMobileSA #Powerof10

Hi Friends, 

The visual language has become an essential element of today’s mobile communication. Designed to bring passion to your life, the Galaxy Note10 and Note10+’s Cinematic Infinity Display lets you work and play with more freedom than ever before.

With just a small, centered cutout for the front camera, the Galaxy Note10 ’s edge-to-edge design offers a truly immersive viewing experience. Galaxy Note10 with HDR10+ certification and its Dynamic Tone Mapping delivers rich, vivid contrast and color for unmatched video quality. Nowhere do these features come together better than on the Galaxy Note10+, described by DisplayMate as the most innovative and high-performance smartphone display they have ever lab tested. Whether you are watching the latest TV shows or playing your favorite game, images and graphics come alive on the Galaxy Note10’s best-in-class display. Check out the infographic below to learn more.

Cheers!!!

Contact me at thelifesway@gmail.com or editor@thelifesway.com to collaborate on your products, events, and services. #TheLifesWay #PhotoYatra! 

A Memoir - This Month Last Year - Nov 2018 www.thelifesway.com #TheLifesWay #PhotoYatra

Hi Friends, 

November is the final month for planning December holidays and the goals for the new years and I am getting a strong feeling that I need to start everything from scratch and the next 3 years of The Life's Way will be towards making videos for Youtube and creating stories on Instagram rather than blog posts. There will be some self-written posts but that will be around 100 in a year or the regular series I intend to do. 

1. A Memoir - This Month Last Year - Sep 2017 www.thelifesway.com #TheLifesWay - https://www.thelifesway.com/2018/11/a-memoir-this-month-last-year-sep-2017.html - I made some decisions and then broke them and remade them and broke them again. This is a fool's paradise for me and I think it's my comfort zone but as I complete my 7 years of The Life's Way, I don't want to do the same mistakes again and again. Let's build a better future if I can which has a lot of passionate learnings to continually enhance my curiosity and charisma. 

2. A Memoir - This Month Last Year - Oct 2017 www.thelifesway.com #TheLifesWay - https://www.thelifesway.com/2018/11/a-memoir-this-month-last-year-oct-2017.html - I was late in posting these blog posts on my page last year and this year too I posted Oct one in Nov only. I have to learn to be disciplined and that's why I want to go back to books. I have taken steps towards them too as I am listening to a lot of audiobooks while driving a car and factory reset my 10 years old Kindle Keyboard for the first time. I have added limited books in the same which I really want to read and if not found interesting will be taken out of the gadget. 

3. A Memoir - This Month Last Year - Nov 2017 www.thelifesway.com #TheLifesWay - https://www.thelifesway.com/2018/11/a-memoir-this-month-last-year-nov-2017.html - Last year I did a lot of Instagram meets and walks with one of my colleagues and we became best of friends. He left for Sweden this year in Oct and I felt really sad but WhatsApp calls make up for it. This is being long that I let anyone enter my life like I allowed this person and change me for the better. 

All the other posts I did are for many brands that didn't invite me to their events or gave me anything this whole year so why bother them to mention and cover in this post. Let's think of all the good and bad Netflix shows and movies I am seeing these days. Money Heist Season 1-2-3 I finished the day before and really waiting for Season 4 which they say will be launched anytime in January 2020. I didn't like the movie DRIVE #bollywood and it's torture to be watching the same. I am stopping Netflix subscription now as I want to read some books towards the end of the year and write my own posts for the completion of 7 Years of The Life's Way in December 2019. 

Cheers!!!

Contact me at thelifesway@gmail.com or editor@thelifesway.com to collaborate on your products, events, and services. #TheLifesWay #PhotoYatra! 

#Streaming: The Gear, The Bandwidth And The Ultimate Platform @AcerAfrica @juliabishrobson

Hi Friends, 

Gaming is fast becoming commercially recognized and shaking off the archaic stereotype of being grunge and anti-social past time for the young adult. One of the key elements to be taken seriously as a gamer is to increase your online presence in ‘streaming’.

According to Julia Robson aka Bish, an Esports contender, and keynote speaker at this year’s Vodacom rAge event in Johannesburg, the need for gamers to share their gaming experience online is becoming prevalent. “Streaming allows any gamer to share and create content for their followers whether this is for Twitch.tv, YouTube, Facebook or Mixer,” says Bish. “These platforms create a space for gamers to share their live gameplay with an audience and interact with a community of other streamers and players.” If you are a ‘noob’ (new to the industry) you should not feel overwhelmed by streaming. Simply record and share on social platforms you are comfortable and familiar with and as your confidence grows as a gamer you can explore additional options.

Gamers have the option of live streaming or pre-recording sessions. Editing pre-recorded sessions allows the user to create edited videos or VOD (Video-On-Demand) which can be more user-friendly for their audience and the ‘noob, but it is not as authentic as a live stream. Bish uses her Predator gaming laptop to stream and recommends software called Wondershare Filmora which assists in uploading to various social platforms.

Picture Credit: Julia Bish Robson Twitter www.twitter.com/juliabishrobson

“It is important to grow with your channel, learn from others and find your niche.” Bish identifies her top influencers as Samplayze, HutchieOG, and Shazz, which she deems entertaining and reliable. As with all influencers on social networks, it is about creating content and knowing what your audience is looking for. “It may be easier for you to start to stream to friends and getting their thoughts and feedback first.”

In summary building, a streaming channel is a process and requires originality and dedication. With Twitch.tv gaining up to 15 million unique viewers per day and these viewers spending on average 95 minutes on the channel, the goal should be to eventually stream live from this channel and ultimately become an Esports star.

Bish shares her top tips for the starting your channel:

• Have fun and be original: It can be daunting to have a camera focused on you but soon it will become easy to interact and have fun with the audience. It is important to think about what would engage you as an individual and then populate that and make it unique to your channel
• Find your niche: Whether this is a summary of your play at the end of each stream, cosplaying during your stream or having quirky terms during your gameplay, think of ‘what you like’ and ‘what you are good at’.
• Security and Privacy: Never give away any personal details or sensitive information. It’s easy to get comfortable with the camera but always remember that content is streamed across the world and the same cautions apply as mainstream channels like Facebook and Instagram. Trolls and cyberbullies are not restricted to streaming and implementing NightBot as a chat moderator can assist with keeping unwanted attention at a minimum.
• Gear: A decent camera with a frame 1080p 60FPS or webcam with a minimum 720p will ensure the quality of your stream is decent. A stable fibre line of at least 10/10 mb with a stable upload and download speed. Other baseline requirements include i5 Intel processor, GTX 1060 graphics card and 16gb of DDR4 RAM. Anything over and above these specs will add to the viewer's pleasure.

Cheers!!!

Contact me at thelifesway@gmail.com or editor@thelifesway.com to collaborate on your products, events, and services. #TheLifesWay #PhotoYatra!