GADGETS & SERVICES _2025-07-14

Eight young innovators selected for global ICT talent programme

After a competitive three-month selection and training process, Huawei named eight Bangladeshi university students winners of the 2025 edition of the international ICT talent development programme 'Seeds for the Future, Bangladesh'.
The winners were announced at an event held in Dhaka, where they received crests and certificates, and will soon travel to China for advanced training and global competitions.
This year's edition saw around 3,000 applications, with 60 students chosen for a rigorous bootcamp covering cloud computing, 5G, AI, and digital power. After assessments through exams, presentations, and team projects, 21 finalists were selected to develop innovative ICT-based business proposals with socio-economic impact.
A panel of academics, UNESCO representatives, alumni, and experts evaluated the final round to select the top eight.
The winners represent institutions including AIUB, NSU, BRAC University, BUET, Dhaka University, RUET, and IUT. The program, organised for the 12th time in Bangladesh, is supported by a global initiative that has reached students from 141 countries and built over 500 academic partnerships. UNESCO serves as the strategic partner of the program in Bangladesh, underscoring its emphasis on empowering youth through digital skills and innovation.

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TikTok launches flood safety search guide for Bangladesh

TikTok has introduced a dedicated search guide in Bangladesh to provide accurate, authoritative information during the ongoing monsoon flood season.
Aimed at combating misinformation, the guide directs users searching for flood-related updates to verified sources, including Bangladesh's Flood Forecasting and Warning Centre (FFWC), TikTok's Safety Center, and its Tragic Event Support guide.
The new feature includes a visible banner encouraging users to verify content and seek support where needed. It also educates users on what constitutes a tragic event and offers resources for mental health and responsible content sharing.
"This initiative ensures access to timely, credible information during crises," said Ferdous Mottakin, Head of Public Policy and Government Relations, South Asia at TikTok. "We're committed to empowering our community with tools that support safety and informed decision-making."
The launch is part of TikTok's broader effort to elevate reliable content and foster a safer, more supportive digital environment.

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OnePlus unveils Nord 5 Series, expands ecosystem in Bangladesh

OnePlus has launched the Nord 5 and Nord CE5 smartphones in Bangladesh, combining flagship performance with long battery life. The Nord 5 features the Snapdragon® 8s Gen 3 chipset, a 6,800mAh battery, and a 50MP Sony sensor, while the Nord CE5 runs on MediaTek Dimensity 8350 Apex with a massive 7,100mAh battery and 80W charging.
The launch also introduced the OnePlus Watch 3 (Tk 33,999), Buds 4 (Tk 9,999), Pad 3 (starting at Tk 73,499), Pad Lite (Tk 29,499), and more, reinforcing OnePlus's ecosystem. Pre-orders for the Nord 5 (Tk 53,999) and Nord CE5 (Tk 35,999) run from July 9-15, with added perks like a display replacement warranty and raffle entries. Sales begin July 16 via Daraz, Pickaboo, Gadget & Gear, and OnePlus stores nationwide. All IoT products come with a 1-year official warranty.
TikTok launches in-app meditation and $2.3M mental health fund to support digital wellness.

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Oppo uncovers Find N5: world's slimmest foldable phone

Oppo has launched the Find N5, a book-style foldable smartphone that combines a tablet-sized display with an ultra-slim, lightweight design. Measuring just 8.93mm when folded and 4.21mm unfolded, the device weighs only 229 grams-making it the world's thinnest, lightest, and most durable foldable phone with water resistance.
The Find N5 features a Titanium Alloy Flexion Hinge that is 36 per cent stronger and 26 per cent more compact than its predecessor. Built with aerospace-grade titanium and aluminum, the phone has passed TÜV Rheinland's 100,000-fold durability test in extreme temperatures. Its frame is 30 per cent stronger than before, and its slim quad-stacking motherboard and carbon fiber reinforcements reduce bulk without compromising strength.
It is also the first foldable to earn IPX6, IPX8, and IPX9 ratings, ensuring high water resistance. While global availability has been announced, Oppo has yet to confirm the launch date or pricing for the Bangladeshi market.