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Airbnb Adds Services, Local Experiences, and New App for Travelers
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Airbnb Adds Services, Local Experiences, and New App for Travelers

by Brian Yatich
written by Brian Yatich
A century ago, hotel chains transformed travel. In 2008, Airbnb introduced a new idea: booking homes as easily as hotels. Since then, over 2 billion guests have used Airbnb, reshaping how people travel. Now, we’re expanding beyond homes with:
  • Airbnb Services – Professional services to enhance your stay.
  • Airbnb Experiences – Local-led activities to explore cities authentically.
  • Updated Airbnb app – A redesigned app to book homes, services, and experiences in one place.
“Seventeen years ago, we changed travel by offering homes,” said Brian Chesky, Airbnb co-founder and CEO. “Now, with services and experiences, we’re making travel about more than where you stay.”

Airbnb Services


Hotels often attract guests with services like room service or spa treatments. Now, Airbnb offers similar services at your stay or even your own home.
Airbnb Services launches with 10 categories in 260 cities, with more added regularly via the app:
  • Chefs – Custom in-home meals by professional chefs.
  • Photography – Photo sessions with experienced photographers.
  • Massage – Swedish, deep tissue, or reflexology by certified therapists.
  • Spa treatments – Facials, body scrubs, and more by licensed aestheticians.
  • Personal training – Yoga, HIIT, or strength training with professional trainers.
  • Hair – Haircuts or blow-drys by experienced stylists.
  • Make-up – Everyday or event make-up by professionals.
  • Nails – Manicures and pedicures by specialists.
  • Prepared meals – Chef-made, ready-to-eat meals.
  • Catering – Full-service catering with custom menus and setup.
Services are vetted for quality based on expertise and reputation. Hosts average 10 years of experience, complete identity verification, and submit required licenses. Many are professionals, like Michelin-starred chefs or award-winning photographers.
Prices vary, with many services starting under $50 USD. Options range from affordable meals to premium sessions with top trainers. Some offerings are exclusive to Airbnb.
You can book services in over 260 cities through the app, which provides detailed host qualifications and pricing. Booking is simple, often instant, and available to anyone—not just Airbnb guests.
“Hotels offer services; Airbnbs offer unique spaces,” said Chesky. “Now, you get both—great homes with professional services.”
Experienced professionals can apply to host services at Airbnb.co.uk/host/services.

Airbnb Experiences


Travelers often choose Airbnb to live like locals, but finding authentic activities in new cities can be hard. Typical tours feel generic, with large groups and scripted itineraries. Airbnb Experiences offers a better way.
Relaunched in over 650 cities, Experiences are led by locals with deep knowledge of their area. Examples include:
  • Cultural tours – Explore Notre-Dame’s restoration with an architect from its team.
  • Food experiences – Learn ramen-making with a Michelin Bib Gourmand chef.
  • Outdoor activities – Horseback ride through Inca sites with an Andean culture expert.
  • Art and shopping – Get a styling session with a Hollywood fashion consultant.
  • Wellness – Train with a Mexican luchador.
Experiences are vetted for quality, focusing on host expertise, local connection, and guest feedback. Standards are maintained through ongoing reviews.
Airbnb Originals are unique activities hosted by notable figures, like pastry lessons with a renowned bakery chef or beach volleyball with an Olympian. Some feature celebrities, such as anime-themed sessions with Megan Thee Stallion or football lessons with Patrick Mahomes.
Starting later this year, Experiences will include social features: see who’s attending, message participants, and stay connected afterward, with clear privacy controls.
You can book Experiences in your own city, not just while traveling.
“Generic tours don’t connect you to a city,” said Chesky. “Experiences let you explore with locals who know it best.”
Apply to host at Airbnb.co.uk/host/experiences.

Updated Airbnb App


The Airbnb app, originally built for booking homes, has been redesigned to handle homes, services, and experiences in one place.
Key features:
  • Explore tab – Discover homes, experiences, and services worldwide.
  • Trips tab – View your itinerary, including home details and booked services or experiences.
  • Messages – Share photos, videos, and handle payments for custom services.
  • Profile – Show your travel history and connect with verified guests and hosts.
The app personalizes recommendations based on your stay and travel companions. It provides a detailed itinerary upon arrival and suggests nearby experiences during your trip.

For hosts, the app includes:

  • Airbnb Setup – Simplified tools to list homes, services, or experiences.
  • Today tab – Manage upcoming reservations.
  • Calendar – View schedules with Google Calendar integration.
  • Listings tab – Adjust service or experience details, like pricing or location.
Built on a new tech stack, the app supports future offerings. Its animated interface makes planning straightforward.
Airbnb Services, Experiences, and the updated app are available now. Host upgrades are accessible via Airbnb Early Access in the app.
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Kenyan Rights Groups File Landmark Case Over Internet Shutdowns
InternetTechnology

Kenyan Rights Groups File Landmark Case Over Internet Shutdowns

by Brian Yatich
written by Brian Yatich

Seven civil society organizations in Kenya have jointly filed a landmark public interest case challenging the government’s actions in restricting internet access during key events in 2023 and 2024.

The case, filed in the High Court of Kenya, seeks to hold the government and major telecom operators accountable for what the groups describe as unconstitutional disruptions to digital freedoms.

The plaintiffs include the International Commission of Jurists (ICJ Kenya), the Bloggers Association of Kenya (BAKE), Paradigm Initiative, the Kenya Union of Journalists (KUJ), the Katiba Institute, the Law Society of Kenya (LSK), and Collaboration on International ICT Policy for East and Southern Africa (CIPESA).

They argue that the deliberate interference with internet services during the #RejectFinanceBill protests in 2023 and the 2024 KCSE examinations violates Kenyans’ fundamental rights under Articles 33, 34, and 35 of the Constitution, which guarantee freedom of expression, media freedom, and access to information, respectively.

High Court Justice Bahati Mwamuye has issued an interim order barring the government and telecom companies from further restricting internet access until the case is resolved.

The defendants include the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA), the Attorney General, the Cabinet Secretary of the Ministry of Information, Communications, and the Digital Economy, as well as telecom giants Safaricom and Airtel Kenya.

The lawsuit comes after credible evidence of internet throttling and the blocking of the Telegram social media platform during the aforementioned events. The evidence, provided by tech firms Cloudflare, IODA, and the Open Observatory of Network Interference (OONI), indicates a pattern of deliberate state action to suppress digital communication.

Rights groups have long criticized the Kenyan government for using internet restrictions as a tool of digital repression. “The internet is no longer a luxury but a critical enabler of political discourse, economic transactions, and even emergency response systems,” said Eric Mukoya, Executive Director of ICJ Kenya.

“Any restrictions must meet strict legal tests of legality, necessity, and proportionality under Article 24 of the Constitution—standards that have been systematically ignored in Kenya’s recurrent, arbitrary disruptions.”

The case seeks a judicial declaration that internet shutdowns without due process are unconstitutional and abuses of state power. It also calls for court-ordered mechanisms to ensure judicial oversight, transparency, and accountability in digital governance.

Kennedy Kachwanya, Chairperson of BAKE, emphasized the broader implications of the case: “The outcome of this case will have far-reaching implications for millions of Kenyans who rely on unimpeded connectivity for livelihoods, education, and civic engagement.

We call upon civil society, media partners, and the international community to support this crucial fight for digital rights as a cornerstone of Kenya’s democratic future.”

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Tech

Panasonic MEA Focuses on Customer Service Strategy at Dubai Conference

by Brian Yatich
written by Brian Yatich

Panasonic Marketing Middle East & Africa (PMMAF) recently held its Customer Service Strategy Conference 2025 in Dubai, UAE.

The event focused on enhancing customer experience and included the launch of a Digital Studio for Technical Training, an AI workshop, and the 14th Regional Technical Olympics.

The Digital Studio aims to improve technical training accessibility and interaction by enabling real-time engagement with products using collaborative tools. This expands reach to more engineers across the region, allows for high-quality recorded training content, and reduces travel costs.

Previously, e-learning was limited to static content, and in-person training had accessibility and cost limitations. The new platform seeks to make knowledge transfer more efficient, engaging, and cost-effective, keeping engineers updated on product insights and troubleshooting.

An AI workshop was conducted to help employees adapt to AI technologies in customer service. The session provided insights and aimed to foster innovation and integration. The 14th Regional Technical Olympics featured a repair skills competition where technicians from Panasonic’s service partners demonstrated their abilities on washing machines and air fryers.

Mr. Hiroyuki Shibutani, CEO, PMMAF, stated, “Rooted in Japan’s cultural values, Panasonic has always regarded customer service excellence as a core principle deeply ingrained in our corporate philosophy. We believe in anticipating our customers’ needs and we are committed to ensuring that our people have the skills required for the jobs of today and tomorrow. We continue to launch initiatives and programs – as well as fit-for-purpose facilities – to help strengthen the competencies of our personnel, and upskill our technicians in terms of navigating changing technologies.”

Mr. Anthony Peter, Director, Customer Service Division (CSD), PMMAF, added, “The launch of our Digital Studio for Technical Training represents another significant stride in Panasonic’s ongoing digitization journey. We recognize the imperative of embracing future-ready initiatives to remain at the forefront of innovation and service excellence. The Digital Studio is not just about training – it’s about transforming how we connect, collaborate, and empower our partners in an increasingly digital world.  We are ensuring that our team and our partners are equipped to navigate the challenges and seize the opportunities of tomorrow through leveraging cutting-edge technology and fostering a culture of continuous learning, w. Similarly, the push to equip our CS workforce with essential artificial intelligence (AI) knowledge is aligned with our continuous commitment to providing smarter, future-ready solutions to optimize customer experience.”

The conference included discussions on PMMAF’s customer service plan for fiscal year 2025 and was attended by service and distribution partners. The Technical Olympics demonstrated the participants’ technical expertise through practical and theoretical tests, promoting continuous learning and high standards of repair.

PMMAF also recognized STAR Service Competition awardees for outstanding performance in service excellence for FY2024 and honored the winners and runners-up of the Technical Olympics.

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Samsung Announces Collaboration with Stanford Medicine to Advance Sleep Apnea Detection
GadgetsTech

Samsung Partners With Stanford To Advance Sleep Apnea Research with AI-Powered Wearables

by Brian Yatich
written by Brian Yatich

Samsung Electronics on Tuesday announced that it has partnered with Stanford University to launch a research project focused on enhancing sleep apnea detection and management through AI technology.

Announced on World Health Day, the initiative aims to emphasize the role of sleep in overall health, building on Samsung’s FDA-cleared obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) feature on its Galaxy Watches.

The study, led by Professor Robson Capasso and co-led by Professor Clete Kushida, will explore ways to improve Samsung’s Sleep Apnea feature, enabling better monitoring and intervention.

The new feature, which detects signs of moderate to severe OSA, has received authorization from the FDA, South Korea’s MFDS, and Brazil’s ANVISA. It will launch in Brazil in late April, expanding to 29 global markets.

“Combining Samsung’s technological expertise with Stanford’s research capabilities opens new avenues for preventive care,” said Dr. Hon Pak, Senior Vice President at Samsung. Robson Capasso added,

This collaboration is crucial for developing ethical and equitable solutions for sleep-related health conditions.

The project aims to empower users with tools to monitor and manage sleep health effectively, potentially preventing long-term complications.

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Kenya Launches National AI Strategy to Drive Digital Transformation
Tech

Kenya Launches National AI Strategy to Drive Digital Transformation

by Brian Yatich
written by Brian Yatich

Kenya has unveiled its National Artificial Intelligence Strategy (2025-2030), positioning the country as a potential AI leader in Africa.

The comprehensive strategy aims to create a roadmap for responsible AI development across key economic sectors.

The strategy, developed through a collaborative effort involving government agencies, private sector, and academic experts, focuses on six critical areas: digital infrastructure, research and development, talent acquisition, governance, investment, and ethical implementation.

Prioritizing sectors including healthcare, education, agriculture, and public service, the strategy addresses current regulatory gaps.

“The Strategy aims to address gaps in AI regulation, investment and skills while fostering innovation in key sectors,” said Richard Odongo, a senior technology expert involved in the strategy’s development.

Key recommendations include developing cloud computing infrastructure, addressing skills gaps, and strengthening data protection mechanisms.

The initiative aligns with Kenya’s Vision 2030 and the African Union’s Continental AI Strategy, targeting inclusive socio-economic development.

“The launch of the AI Strategy signals new opportunities for technology companies, startups, and investors in Kenya,” noted John Syekei, a legal expert involved in the strategy’s creation. The approach mirrors similar AI strategies developed in other African countries like Rwanda, Nigeria, and Egypt.

Stakeholders expect the strategy to unlock funding for AI innovation, create job opportunities, and potentially attract global technology firms to Kenya’s emerging digital ecosystem.

The Ministry of Information, Communications and the Digital Economy will spearhead the strategy’s implementation, with a focus on creating an enabling environment for responsible AI adoption.

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TECNO has officially launches CAMON 40 Series in Kenya
GadgetsTech

TECNO Officially launches CAMON 40 Series in Kenya

by Brian Yatich
written by Brian Yatich

TECNO has officially launched the CAMON 40 Series in Kenya, marking a new era in mobile photography.

Designed for photography enthusiasts and everyday users alike, this series combines cutting-edge AI innovation with professional-grade imaging to help users “capture life effortlessly, in every scene.”

Whether you’re snapping vibrant street life, breathtaking wildlife, or cherished family moments, the CAMON 40 Series is here to redefine how you experience photography.

The Ultimate AI Flash Snap Master

The CAMON 40 Series introduces full-screen capture and efficient AI features, making it TECNO’s ultimate AI Flash Snap master. Its intelligent capture technology ensures stunning results in any environment—from low-light portraits to fast-paced action shots. The device’s AI algorithms adapt dynamically, delivering crisp, vivid images with every click.

Pro-Grade Camera System

At the heart of the CAMON 40 Series is a pro-grade camera system that brings studio-quality photography to your fingertips. With just a single tap, users can capture professional-level images, making it easier than ever to create content that stands out.

Universal Tone Technology

One of the standout features of the CAMON 40 Series is its Universal Tone technology. This revolutionary advancement ensures precise skin tone representation across diverse lighting conditions. Paired with next-gen AI enhancements, the device makes professional-grade photography accessible to everyone, regardless of their skill level.

Global Recognition and Local Launch

Fresh from its global debut at Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2025, the CAMON 40 Series has already earned accolades for its technological innovation. In Kenya, TECNO launched the series with the TECNO Experience Tour at the Sarit Centre. Attendees had the opportunity to experience the latest Flash Snap feature firsthand, showcasing the device’s capabilities in real-world scenarios.

A Creative Companion for Everyone

“TECNO continues to lead Africa’s mobile imaging revolution,” said Dickson Ireri, TECNO Kenya’s Training Manager, during the experience tour. “The CAMON 40 Series isn’t just a smartphone—it’s a creative companion that makes professional photography accessible to everyone.”

Availability and Pricing

The CAMON 40 Series is now available nationwide at TECNO-exclusive stores, Jumia, Masoko, Safaricom shops, and various other outlets. Prices range from Ksh 24,999 to Ksh 34,999, making it an affordable yet powerful choice for photography enthusiasts.

Why Choose the CAMON 40 Series?

  • AI-Powered Photography: Capture stunning images in any environment.
  • Universal Tone Technology: Precise skin tone representation in diverse lighting.
  • Pro-Grade Camera System: Studio-quality results with a single tap.
  • Affordable Pricing: Professional features at an accessible price point.

Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or just starting your creative journey, the TECNO CAMON 40 Series is designed to elevate your photography game. Don’t miss the chance to experience this groundbreaking device—visit a TECNO store near you today!

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MobileStudyTech

Mastercard Aims to Drive Africa’s $1.5 Trillion Digital Payments Growth by 2030

by Brian Yatich
written by Brian Yatich

Mastercard has unveiled a strategic plan to accelerate Africa’s digital payments economy, projected to reach $1.5 trillion by 2030, according to a report commissioned by the company and conducted by Genesis Analytics.

The initiative focuses on three key areas: empowering micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), fostering fintech innovation, and scaling cross-border payments.

The company is leveraging partnerships with governments, banks, and fintech firms to expand digital connectivity and financial inclusion.

For MSMEs, which contribute over 50% of Africa’s GDP, Mastercard is deploying solutions like Tap on Phone and SME-in-a-Box, alongside its Track Micro Credit Program.

Additionally, the Mobilizing Access to the Digital Economy (MADE) Alliance, in collaboration with the African Development Bank Group, aims to provide digital access to 100 million individuals and businesses within a decade.

Africa’s fintech sector, which has raised $6 billion in equity financing since 2000, is another focal point. Mastercard’s partnerships with M-Pesa in Kenya and MTN Group Fintech have already enabled millions to access mobile money services. The company’s Fintech Express program further supports fintechs with card issuance and fraud prevention tools.

Cross-border payments, critical to Africa’s economic mobility, are also being streamlined. Mastercard’s Cross-Border Services, in collaboration with Access Bank and Equity Bank, facilitate secure remittances via bank accounts, mobile wallets, and cards.

“Africa is filled with immense possibilities, and its people have the potential to shape the global economy in the decades ahead,” said Dimitrios Dosis, president of Eastern Europe, Middle East, and Africa at Mastercard. Mark Elliott, division president for Africa, added, “Our investments today will help build a more resilient economy for the future.”

The continent’s digital transformation is bolstered by rapid internet penetration, projected to grow at 20% annually, and financial inclusion, expanding at 6% per year. Mastercard’s efforts aim to create a more inclusive and connected digital economy across Africa.

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MobileTechnology

Pretium Launches App for Seamless Digital Asset Payments

by Brian Yatich
written by Brian Yatich

Pretium has unveiled its standalone app on the Google Play Store to empower users to seamlessly integrate their digital assets into daily life, enabling purchases, dining, and money transfers without the need for peer-to-peer (P2P) exchanges.

Pretium’s mission is to simplify the use of digital assets, making them as accessible as traditional currencies for everyday expenses.

The app allows users to make payments at supermarkets, restaurants, and grocery stores using Mento decentralized stablecoins like cKES or cUSD.

Merchants receive payments in local currencies, eliminating intermediaries and enhancing accessibility for all.

Key features include merchant payments, money transfers, cross-border transactions, and inflation hedging through digital asset storage.

Currently available in Kenya, Uganda, Nigeria, Ghana, and Malawi, Pretium plans further expansion.

Derrick Bundi, CEO of Pretium, emphasized the app’s role in advancing payment infrastructure, stating, “Blockchain technology is about creating seamless everyday transactions, not just holding or trading assets.”

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South Korea Bans New Downloads of DeepSeek AI Chatbot Over Privacy Concerns
Cyber securityTech

South Korea Bans New Downloads of DeepSeek AI Chatbot Over Privacy Concerns

by Brian Yatich
written by Brian Yatich

South Korea has prohibited new downloads of DeepSeek, a popular Chinese artificial intelligence (AI) chatbot, according to the country’s Personal Information Protection Commission.

The ban, which took effect on Saturday evening, removes the app from Apple’s App Store and Google Play. However, users who have already downloaded the app will still be able to use it, and access will remain available through DeepSeek’s website.

The decision follows a rapid rise in popularity for DeepSeek in South Korea, where it topped app store charts with over a million weekly users within a week of gaining global attention.

Despite its success, the app has faced increasing scrutiny worldwide over privacy and national security issues, prompting similar restrictions in other countries.

South Korea’s government has also taken internal measures, with several agencies banning their employees from installing the chatbot on work devices.

Acting President Choi Sang-mok has warned that DeepSeek could have far-reaching implications for the country’s industries, extending beyond the AI sector.

The Personal Information Protection Commission stated that the ban will remain in place until DeepSeek implements “improvements and remedies” to comply with South Korea’s strict personal data protection laws.

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InternetSocial MediaTech

TikTok Unveils 2025 Discover List: Six Sub-Saharan African Creators Shine on Global Stage

by Brian Yatich
written by Brian Yatich

TikTok has officially released its highly anticipated 2025 Discover List, celebrating 50 standout creators from across the globe.

Now in its third year, the annual list highlights creators who have made a significant impact both on and off the platform. This year, six talented creators from Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) have earned a spot on the prestigious list, showcasing the region’s growing influence on digital culture.

The 2025 Discover List is divided into five categories: Icons, Innovators, Foodies, Educators, and Originators. These categories recognize creators who have sparked trends, fostered meaningful conversations, and inspired communities worldwide.

Educators

These creators educate and entertain, encouraging audiences to explore new ideas and perspectives.

  • Roy Kanyi (Kenya): A tech enthusiast, Roy simplifies the complex world of gadgets and electronics. His engaging content helps users make informed decisions about tech products, making him a go-to creator for tech education.

Foodies

These culinary creatives tantalize audiences with recipes, dining experiences, and cultural storytelling.

  • Tosin Samuel (Nigeria): Known as Tspicekitchen, Tosin redefines food storytelling with mouth-watering recipes and stunning visuals. Her content merges Nigerian tradition with global flavors, turning every meal into an experience.
  • Abena Amoakoaa Sintim-Aboagye (Ghana): Chefabby celebrates Ghanaian cuisine by giving traditional dishes a modern twist while staying true to their cultural roots.

Icons

These game-changers dominate TikTok’s For You feed, shaping culture and setting trends.

  • Charity Ekezie (Nigeria): With over three million followers, Charity boldly challenges stereotypes about Africa through humor and education. Her viral skits, including a collaboration with Bill Gates, have turned inside jokes into global trends.

Innovators

These creators bring fresh perspectives, redefine virality, and push creative boundaries.

  • Fanuel Masamaki (Tanzania): Known as Zerobrainer0, Fanuel is redefining sports content with his signature beige blazer and comedic twist on football. He recently won Sports Creator of the Year at the TikTok Creator Awards in South Africa.

Originators

These trendsetters are behind viral challenges, sounds, and hashtags.

  • Thato Seth Mathobela (TitoM) & Bongani Kenneth Sibanyoni (Yuppe) (South Africa): The dynamic duo has taken South African music global, creating viral hits that have earned them fans across Europe and beyond.

Africa’s Growing Influence on TikTok’s Global Stage

The inclusion of six SSA creators in the 2025 Discover List highlights Africa’s increasing impact on global digital culture. “We carefully consider all content creators on our platform, selecting finalists based on their impact both on TikTok and in the real world,” said Boniswa Sidwaba, Head of Content Operations, SSA, TikTok.

“These creators have sparked trends, started meaningful conversations, and fostered safe spaces for their communities.”

The list underscores TikTok’s role in breaking down barriers, fostering creativity, and connecting communities worldwide. As SSA continues to produce innovative and impactful content, the region’s influence on global culture is sure to grow.

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