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Canon Showcases Enhanced End-to-End Product Lineup at International Broadcasting Convention (IBC) 2024

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Canon

Canon showcased its very latest innovations in imaging technology designed to empower broadcasters and content creators to push creative boundaries and deliver exceptional visual experiences

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, October 2, 2024/APO Group/ — 

As part of our ‘Closer to Our Customers’ strategy, we showcased our latest advancements including the EOS R1, EOS R5 Mark II, EOS C400 & EOSC80 to 25 key customers from across Africa; We aimed to equip our customers with firsthand experience of the diverse products, including Canon’s Multicam Solutions (www.Canon-CNA.com), empowering them to tailor strategies, enhance workflows, and improve efficiency.

Canon Central & North Africa returned to the International Broadcasting Convention (IBC) took place at the RAI Amsterdam, 13 – 16 September 2024. At this year’s show, Canon showcased its very latest innovations in imaging technology designed to empower broadcasters and content creators to push creative boundaries and deliver exceptional visual experiences.

Following a summer of momentous launches including the Canon EOS R1, EOS R5 Mark II, and the EOS C400, and with more advancements in the pipeline, the convention offered attendees a first look at the latest products. From professional cinema and PTZ cameras to an extended VR range, the entire breadth of the Canon portfolio was showcased at IBC to explore and experience.

Rashad Ghani, B2C Business Unit Director at Canon Central & North Africa, said: Canon has had a groundbreaking year, setting a new standard for professional of all levels. As part of our ‘Closer to Our Customers’ strategy, we’re thrilled to have had the opportunity to showcase our latest advancements, including the EOS R1, EOS R5 Mark II, and EOS C400, to 25 key customers from various parts of Africa. From Kenya and Nigeria to Egypt, Morocco, Central African region and beyond, we welcomed customers representing diverse industries, including broadcast, cinema, rental houses, education, and government institutions.

Our goal was to equip our African customers with firsthand experience of our products and solutions, enabling them to tailor their strategies to meet the unique needs of the African market. By highlighting the breadth of our portfolio and the cutting-edge capabilities of our equipment, we aim to empower our customers to drive their businesses forward. Additionally, we also highlighted Canon’s Multicam Solutions, which enhance workflows by offering operational, management, and cost efficiencies, allowing users to optimize processes and improve overall efficiency.

Whether it’s virtual production, remote workflows, or other emerging trends, we remain dedicated to ensuring everyone, from individual creators to those part of large-scale productions, benefit from our advancements.

This year, we were particularly honoured to welcome the talented Nigerian cinematographer and filmmaker, Nora Awolowo, who experienced her first visit to IBC. As one of the few individuals to exclusively experience the EOS C80 prior to the event, Nora’s participation underscores our commitment to nurturing and empowering creative professionals from Africa. By providing opportunities for direct engagement with industry experts and networking with peers, we aim to foster a vibrant and innovative community within the region.”

Building on last year’s success, the stand was made up of multiple zones giving visitors the chance to get hands-on with a host of Canon products. This included a Multi-Cam zone, RF System zone, Virtual Production Workflow space and PTZ Wall. Canon’s team of experts were on hand to guide users through the experience, answer questions and showcase the full capability of the products on display. 

Empowering broadcasters to embrace the future of visual storytelling

By providing opportunities for direct engagement with industry experts and networking with peers, we aim to foster a vibrant and innovative community within the region

Canon focused on key areas where its technology is helping drive the industry forward, including the latest large format cameras and lenses built to capture breathtaking visuals with incredible detail and cinematic depth of field.

The EOS C400 launched earlier this year is the first high-end RF mount Cinema EOS camera, ushering in a groundbreaking new era. The EOS C400 enables operators to access the full suite of features typically associated with larger scale production cameras without the burden of size, weight or attaching additional modules.

The PTZ area included an extensive list of products that showcased the powerful image quality and operability of the full range of indoor and outdoor PTZ products and applications from Canon. The CR-N100, CR-N300, CR-N500 and CR-X300, controllers, as well as Canon Auto Loop and Auto Tracking, will all be exhibited for visitors.

Mirrorless cameras setting new standards for performance and creativity

Canon’s flag bearers for the EOS R System – the EOS R1 and EOS R5 Mark II – were showcased giving attendees the chance to try out features such as the new ‘Accelerated Capture’ imaging platform and new Dual Pixel Intelligent AF.

EOS R1 and EOS R5 Mark II offer video in 12-bit RAW recording internally to the memory card as well as using Cinema EOS Movie Recording formats alongside Canon Log 2 and 3 with proxy video recording that is now fully supported between two cards. This takes professional video production to new heights, delivering outstanding quality and creative flexibility no matter the scenario.

Virtual production workflows

The versatile Flex Zoom lens lineup including the CN-E20-50mm T2.4 L F / FP and CN-E14-35mm T1.7 L S / SP that are future-proofed for 8K productions as well as providing greater flexibility for 4K due to the additional detail and high resolution they provide. For VR, the new RF-S 3.9mm F3.5 STM DUAL FISHEYE lens makes it easier than ever to create 3D VR footage. The compact lens boasts a wide 144-degree field of view and large depth of field, simplifying set-up and keeping the subject in focus. Also on display were the RF 5.2mm F2.8L DUAL FISHEYE and RF-S 7.8mm F4 STM DUAL lenses, further showcasing the possibilities for immersive content creation.

Cover more from studios to stadiums with expanded range of lenses

Beyond VR, over the last few months, Canon has been expanding its lens offering. The Lens Showcase Zone demonstrates Canon’s commitment to innovation and empowering users to capture stunning footage whether that’s in the great outdoors or in studio. On display were familiar lenses alongside new releases such as the CJ27ex7.3B IASE T lens which features the widest coverage and telephoto reach currently on the market in its category, along with new hybrid products such as the RF 24-105mm F2.8L IS USM Z.

For Cine lenses, the recently unveiled CN7x17 KAS T cine servo lens were on display, showcasing an upgraded drive unit that revolutionises the future of Canon’s lens offering.

For more information about IBC, visit: https://apo-opa.co/3TSO5pk

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Canon Central and North Africa (CCNA).

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Yellow Card Secures Crypto Asset Service Provider Licence in South Africa

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Yellow Card

Stablecoin adoption is surging throughout Africa, with sub-Saharan Africa having the highest adoption rate in the world at 9.2%

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, November 20, 2024/APO Group/ — 

Yellow Card (www.YellowCard.io), Africa’s leading stablecoin-based infrastructure provider, has been issued a Crypto Asset Service Provider (CASP) licence by the Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) in South Africa.  

Commenting on the FSCA’s decision to issue the licence to Yellow Card Financial South Africa, Chris Maurice, Yellow Card’s co-founder and CEO, said, “The CASP licence underscores Yellow Card’s commitment to its customers in South Africa and regulatory compliance across the continent.This achievement reflects our dedication to providing secure, compliant and transformative solutions for our customers both in South Africa and across Africa.  

The CASP licence underscores Yellow Card’s commitment to its customers in South Africa and regulatory compliance across the continent

Stablecoin adoption is surging throughout Africa, with sub-Saharan Africa having the highest adoption rate in the world at 9.2%. In South Africa alone, where the number of total users of crypto assets is estimated to amount to 5.8 million people, stablecoins have experienced growth of 50% month over month since October 2023, displacing bitcoin as the country’s most popular cryptocurrency.  Yellow Card is excited to play a pivotal role in this financial revolution in South Africa. 

Yellow Card, which launched in South Africa in 2020, has facilitated over US$3 billion in transactions in the last several years and now operates in 20 countries across the continent. The company recently completed a US$33 million Series C financing, led by Blockchain Capital and existing investors, including Polychain Capital, Valar Ventures, Third Prime Ventures, Coinbase Ventures, and Block, Inc. (Square/Cash App), reflecting strong investor confidence in its mission.   

As the stablecoin landscape continues to evolve, Yellow Card is committed to leading the charge in making digital assets accessible and secure for businesses across Africa. With the recent licensing and funding, the company plans to expand its B2B offerings by enhancing its stablecoin rails, upgrading infrastructure, and advancing its B2B API and Widget. These efforts will empower businesses with seamless solutions for liquidity management and their general operations. 

To learn more about Yellow Card, visit: https://YellowCard.io/

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Yellow Card Financial.

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Telecoming and MTN Partner to Launch cloud gaming in South Africa

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MTN Cloudplay will allow MTN users in South Africa to access a wide range of cloud-based video games, providing a high-quality gaming experience without the need for downloads or high-end gaming consoles

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, November 20, 2024/APO Group/ —

  • Both companies extend their collaboration to introduce cloud gaming in South Africa.
  • MTN Cloudplay aims to revolutionize digital entertainment with affordable, high-quality gaming access.

MTN, Africa’s leading telecommunications operator with over 290 million subscribers across the continent, announces the launch of Cloudplay, a revolutionary new cloud gaming service, with Telecoming (www.Telecoming.com), a sportech company specializing in developing and distributing mobile experiences for sports and entertainment. This project marks a new milestone in the ongoing collaboration between the two companies.

MTN Cloudplay: A Game Changer

MTN Cloudplay will allow MTN users in South Africa to access a wide range of cloud-based video games, providing a high-quality gaming experience without the need for downloads or high-end gaming consoles. The service will allow customers to stream high-end PC games to their mobile phones, enabling them to play anywhere, anytime.

This service seeks to democratize access to high-quality mobile gaming for the whole family; including various genres which include retro games and exciting popular gaming titles with multi-device gameplay, at an affordable price of only R79 per month.

Jason Probert, General Manager for Digital Services at MTN South Africa shared his thoughts on the collaboration:

Customers can use their existing Steam licenses on the service, and have access to more than 300 games on the service for only R79 per month

“We’re thrilled to launch MTN Cloudplay in South Africa. We’re committed to enabling our customers to enjoy the benefits of a modern connected life and the advent of 5G means that it is now possible to stream and play games without the need for a PC or console. Customers can use their existing Steam licenses on the service, and have access to more than 300 games on the service for only R79 per month.”

Alí Karaosman, MEA Director of Telecoming says “It is very exciting for us to extend our collaboration with MTN, bringing our nearly decade-long experience in this market and supporting the operator in this innovative digital entertainment offering, we are convinced that MTN Cloudplay will revolutionize the way users in South Africa enjoy video games. For Telecoming, this partnership with MTN is a strategic step in our mission to bring esports and innovative digital services to Africa. We are committed to continuing to develop technological solutions that enhance digital leisure for people in the region.”

Service Details

MTN Cloudplay is available to all MTN users in South Africa since November 2024. With a vast library of over 340 games from over 50 publishers, this cloud gaming service offers an unmatched gaming experience on any device.

MTN Cloudplay is accessible to MTN subscribers. Users can visit https://Cloudplay.MTN.co.za to explore the platform and enjoy a wide selection of gaming titles.

Highlights

  • Extensive Game Library: Enjoy classics like Contra, PacMan and Mortal Kombat and modern hits like Hogwarts Legacy and Borderlands 3.
  • Bring Your Own License (BYOL): Access games you’ve purchased on Steam, such as Grand Theft Auto V and Fallout 4.
  • Multi-Device Access: Play on any device and switch seamlessly between them.
  • Low Latency: Experience responsive gameplay with minimal lag.
  • Subscription: Available directly on https://Cloudplay.MTN.co.za or via the MTN Play https://Play.MTN.co.za website for R79 per month.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Telecoming.

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rainx Launches the101 Range of 5G Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) Routers for Mobile Network Operators (MNOs)

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The industry’s smartest and most aesthetically pleasing 5G and Wi-Fi 7 router opens new opportunities for service providers globally

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, November 20, 2024/APO Group/ — 

rainx, a leader in 5G Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) solutions, has launched the101 range (https://apo-opa.co/40UwYYE), an advanced ecosystem of fixed wireless 5G and Wi-Fi access products designed to meet the high standards of modern Mobile Network Operators (MNOs), Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) and their customers.

This lineup includes the101 and the101 Pro 5G smart routers, the101 Xtender smart mesh Wi-Fi extender, and the101 Loop – a new category of product designed for today’s always-connected customer, powered by MediaTek. Together, these solutions redefine 5G FWA, enabling operators to enhance network quality, reduce churn, and drive new revenue streams. The routers also offer a collection of 101 skins to suit the users’ style, creating devices that are designed to be on show.

Targeted to the demands of the modern telco

As demand for 5G-enabled FWA continues to surge, MNOs face complex challenges in scaling network capacity and quality for fixed locations, while managing the concurrent load on mobile networks. Recognising this challenge, rainx has engineered the Customer Edge approach, an integrated ecosystem of products and services designed to empower operators to manage and optimise the customer experience. This begins with the101 range of 5G smart routers, which double as network probes, feeding real-time insights to theStation, a smart managed services platform.

theStation provides operators with deep network insights, enabling accurate, proactive decisions on coverage and capacity expansion. Operators can access detailed data on network performance in the home, including Wi-Fi clients, usage patterns, speed and latency – providing proactive support and direct customer communication through the101’s touch screen. This visibility gives MNOs comprehensive control over the entire FWA ecosystem, helping to streamline network load management, anticipate capacity needs, and deliver high-speed connectivity for both residential and commercial customers.

For end-users, the101 range provides an intuitive, self-service interface that empowers customers to manage their network in real time, minimising support needs and enhancing the overall customer experience.

Key Products in the101 Range include:

the101 Pro 5G smart router

Built for premium, high-demand users, the101 Pro offers advanced 5G capabilities with the new MediaTek (MTK) T830 platform that delivers sub-6Ghz 5G with speeds of up to 7 Gbps, Wi-Fi 7 and 300MHz 4 carrier aggregation. The routers offer a range of customisable skins to suit the users’ aesthetic preferences that bring the Pro’s screen to life. Its powerful hardware ensures optimal performance for bandwidth-intensive applications, including cloud gaming.

Our Customer Edge approach provides operators with the deep insights they need to make informed decisions on their networks

Ripple Messaging™ offers MNOs a direct communication channel to the device’s 2.1” touch screen for real-time support and service notifications. It includes a built-in speed test and a “Tap for Support” feature. Additionally, theStation’s managed services enable proactive device management, optimising performance with real-time updates to ensure continuous service quality and reducing operational costs.

the101 5G Smart Router

rainx’s mid-range offering is powered by an MTK T750 platform with 200MHz two carrier aggregation and AX3600 Wi-Fi 6. With a 1.8” touch screen display, it offers smart features like “Scan to Connect”, direct messaging and a built-in speed test. It’s available with a choice of 101 skins to suit customer tastes. the101 also offers managed services through theStation.

the101 Xtender Smart Mesh Wi-Fi

the101 Xtender broadens 5G coverage, enabling MNOs to deliver high-quality, uniform connectivity throughout larger spaces. As part of the mesh network, Xtenders integrate directly with 101 routers, allowing operators to address Wi-Fi coverage gaps and deliver a consistent, high-speed experience across homes or office spaces.

the101 Loop

A new portable 5G router designed for today’s always-connected consumer. With built-in 5G, a 5.5” LCD touch screen, 25W stereo sound and a cinematic camera, the Loop lets you connect in exciting new ways. MNOs can leverage the Loop’s multimedia capabilities to offer premium services, build customer loyalty and create new ARPU (Average Revenue Per User) opportunities through integrated 5G and Wi-Fi.

“Through smart hardware and services, we’re partnering with MNOs and MVNOs to unlock the potential of 5G,” said Brandon Leigh, Founder and Director of rainx. “Our ecosystem empowers operators to monetise latent 5G capacity, create new revenue streams, and addresses the shift from spiky mobile traffic to high, steady usage at fixed locations. Our Customer Edge approach provides operators with the deep insights they need to make informed decisions on their networks, manage the customer experience and generate ROI from 5G.”

“For customers, the 101range allows them to blend their aesthetic preferences with beautiful customisable skins, alongside high-performance engineering powered by the latest MediaTek CPE technology. the101 range delivers a reliable, high-speed connection that stays robust during periods of spiky traffic. The range also offers intuitive self-service features, allowing customers to easily monitor and control their router, reducing the need for support calls and creating a seamless, hands-on user experience that truly puts the power in their hands,” Leigh concluded. 

Rami Osman, Director of Business Development for MediaTek Middle East and Africa, said: “We are excited to collaborate with rainx to increase 5G FWA access across Africa, Asia and abroad to bring the benefits of fast, reliable connectivity to consumers and businesses. The MediaTek T830 has a highly integrated and compact design that provides big power savings and reduces development time and costs for customers like rainx.

“The MediaTek T830 chipset platform represents the latest advancements in both 5G and Wi-Fi connectivity and enables our customers to build extremely high-performance multi-gigabit 5G CPE products in the smallest form factors possible. Users can get a super-fast router at home of office that they can self-install and manage, reducing the lengthy installation times for fixed line broadband,” Osman said.  

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of MediaTek Inc..

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