Tech

Abubakar Sadiq Umar: A visionary disrupting tech and mentorship

By Rukayya Sani Ashir

In an age characterised by digital disruption, Abubakar Sadiq Umar has established himself as a fascinating entrepreneur. Sadiq’s professional experience stretches across borders and industries, and he has built a name for himself as a man who delivers his ambition, the latest being his mentorship platform, AltMentor. His endeavour not only changes the intersection between technology and mentorship but also serves a larger purpose: advancing Africa’s place in the global technology story.

The Seed of Innovation: Envestlab’s Rise

For Abubakar Sadiq, creativity started with Envestlab, a venture aimed at nurturing the tech ecosystem of Northern Nigeria. EnvestLab’s annual tech conferences and vigorous hackathon competitions have become important landmarks for entrepreneurs. These conferences go beyond the superficial trappings of networking; they are fertile grounds where ideas meet execution.

With the aid of Envestlab, Sadiq gives young inventors chances to come together, showcase their ideas, and obtain sufficient resources to kickstart their projects. The hackathons have become a trademark of the initiative, where select novel business ideas are recognised and nurtured.

Sadiq’s philosophy is reflected in the glare of creativity and competition. He has always maintained that Africa does not receive technology; it provides it. This idea inspired the creation of EnvestLab.

A Marketing Virtuoso

Before his entrepreneurial journey, Abubakar Sadiq nurtured his craft through positions that placed him at the forefront of technology. As the Head of Digital Marketing, Northflix experienced his flair for engaging with the audience. He was able to implement the company’s brand further through campaigns based on data analysis and the telling of stories, especially in the rather crowded cyberspace. 

Charting a Global Career in Blockchain

Furthering his range of skills, his time at Green Life Energy (GLE), a UK-based renewable energy blockchain start-up, introduced him to decentralised technologies. Given this, as Project Manager and Director of Partnerships, Sadiq attempted to bridge the gaps in the adoption of Blockchain and devise methods for using the still-young technology.

Abubakar Sadiq stood out among thousands of attendees when he was named Binance Blockchain Week Dubai 2022 Star of the Day. This award recognised his rising stature in the global technological arena and his prowess in linking new inventions with practical use.

Sadiq’s career progressed in tandem with Gameness, a Turkish company involved in esports that focused on the blockchain industry, which was once known as NerfIT. In Gameness, as the Head of Partnerships, Sadiq strategically aligned the company’s blockchain offerings to be tempered and adapted to the rapidly changing needs of the eSports environment. These experiences improved his skill set, equipping him with a nuanced understanding of product innovation and market positioning, which are fundamental to successful entrepreneurial ventures.

AltMentor: The Next Frontier in Mentorship

Sadiq believes that’s why his latest start-up, AltMentor, is timely and ambitious. With a focus on commencement in the first quarter of 2025, the platform seeks a different approach to mentorship. AltMentor connects mentors with mentees through a fee-based model, creating a sustainable ecosystem where knowledge sharing becomes accessible and rewarding.

To Sadiq, AltMentor is not merely a business but a movement. At its core is the belief that structured, personalised, and goal-oriented mentorship can transform lives. “Everyone deserves access to the wisdom of those who have walked the path before them,” he says, articulating a vision that is as inclusive as it is ambitious.

The platform’s goal of reaching a $100 million valuation within 24 months is backed by its robust scalability and global appeal. AltMentor aims to connect millions of users, from young professionals seeking guidance to seasoned experts looking to impart their knowledge. The dual benefit of empowering mentors while equipping mentees positions the platform as a potential game-changer in Africa’s education and professional development landscape.

The Broader Vision

Sadiq’s work with AltMentor and Envestlab reflects a broader narrative: the recalibration of Africa’s place in global innovation. By focusing on mentorship and entrepreneurship, he addresses two critical gaps that often hinder the continent’s growth: access to knowledge and the support needed to scale ideas.

His dream is larger than those associated with the platforms he has developed. Sadiq sees Africa as the next big tech powerhouse, not for replicating others’ inventions but for creating original ones. By nurturing the culture of mentorship and supporting entrepreneurs, he is building a system where the next generation will be empowered to prosper.

A Legacy in the Making

Sadiq has an inspiring story. His tale depicts the promise and growth potential of AltMentor’s upcoming launch. His belief in innovation and collaboration is unwavering, as we can see from his journey of supporting startups at Envestlab, the birth of AltMentor, and everything in between. 

It is as transformative as it is enticing investors, mentors, and mentees to join the AltMentor venture. He has been vocal about the platform’s purpose, and considering his previous milestones, it’s safe to say that the venture aims to make profits while solving critical problems.

Abubakar Sadiq Umar is a leader with a vision, and in his envisioned world, technology not only solves problems but also creates many opportunities. He is the person who has dreams but, even more importantly, acts. He demonstrated how the continent of Africa and the world at large can innovate and develop.

Rukayya Sani Ashir writes from Kano and can be reached via email at saniashirrukayya@gmail.com.

The rise of Product-Led Growth: A new era for tech startups

By Oluseyi Sodiya

The tech startup landscape is evolving, and with it, a new paradigm known as product-led growth (PLG) is taking centre stage. Unlike traditional strategies that rely heavily on sales and marketing to drive growth, PLG focuses on the product itself as the primary driver of customer acquisition, expansion, and retention. This approach is not only reshaping how startups grow but also revolutionizing the tech industry as a whole.

Understanding Product-Led Growth

Product-led growth is a strategy where the product itself is the main vehicle for acquiring and retaining customers. In a PLG model, the product is designed to deliver immediate value, encouraging users to try, adopt, and champion it without the need for aggressive sales tactics. This approach leverages user experiences and organic growth channels such as word-of-mouth and network effects, making it a cost-effective and scalable growth strategy.

Empowering users

One of the core principles of PLG is empowering users. By offering a seamless and intuitive user experience, startups can enable users to derive value from the product independently. This empowerment not only enhances user satisfaction but also fosters loyalty and advocacy. When users are delighted by a product, they are more likely to share their positive experiences with others, driving organic growth.

Data-driven insights

A product-led approach relies heavily on data-driven insights to continually improve the product and user experience. Startups can leverage analytics to understand how users interact with their product, identify pain points, and make informed decisions about feature development and enhancements. This iterative process ensures that the product remains relevant and valuable to users, driving sustained growth.

Reducing customer acquisition costs

Traditional customer acquisition strategies often involves significant marketing and sales expenses. In contrast, PLG can reduce customer acquisition costs by leveraging the product itself to attract and convert users. Free trials, freemium models, and in-app onboarding are effective tactics that allow users to experience the product’s value firsthand before making a purchasing decision. This not only lowers the barrier to entry but also accelerates the adoption process.

Building viral loops

PLG leverages the power of viral loops to drive exponential growth. Viral loops occur when users encourage others to adopt the product, creating a self-reinforcing cycle of user acquisition. Features such as referral programs, social sharing options, and collaborative functionalities can amplify the reach of the product and increase its user base organically. This network effect is a powerful growth engine that can propel startups to new heights.

PLG success

Several tech startups have successfully implemented PLG strategies to achieve remarkable growth. Companies like Slack, Dropbox, and Zoom have harnessed the power of their products to build massive user bases with minimal reliance on traditional marketing. Slack’s user-friendly interface and seamless integrations made it a favourite among teams, leading to widespread adoption through word-of-mouth. Similarly, Dropbox’s freemium model allowed users to experience the benefits of cloud storage before upgrading to premium plans.

Challenges and considerations

While PLG offers numerous advantages, it also presents challenges. Startups must ensure that their product delivers real value and can stand on its own without heavy sales intervention. This requires a deep understanding of user needs and continuous investment in product development. Additionally, measuring the success of PLG initiatives can be complex, as it involves tracking user behavior and engagement metrics.

Finally, the rise of product-led growth marks a new era for tech startups, offering a scalable and cost-effective approach to growth. By focusing on delivering exceptional user experiences and leveraging data-driven insights, startups can build products that not only attract and retain users but also drive organic growth through advocacy and network effects. As the tech industry continues to evolve, PLG is set to become a cornerstone strategy for startups looking to make a lasting impact. Embracing this approach can help startups navigate the competitive landscape and achieve sustainable success in the digital age.

NITDA alerts Nigerians to new malware threat stealing banking details  

By Uzair Adam 

The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has warned Nigerians about new banking malware that targets users worldwide through advanced phishing campaigns.  

In a statement released on Monday, NITDA’s Computer Emergency Readiness and Response Team described the malware, known as Grandoreiro, as a significant threat. 

It uses sophisticated techniques, including screen overlay attacks and remote device control, to steal sensitive information such as banking credentials and personal data.  

The agency explained that the malware is primarily distributed through phishing emails and fraudulent websites that trick users into downloading malicious software disguised as legitimate updates or documents. 

Once installed, it bypasses security measures, giving attackers unauthorized access to victims’ devices.  

NITDA cautioned that the malware could lead to financial losses and identity theft. 

To prevent such outcomes, the agency advised Nigerians to avoid clicking on links or downloading attachments from unknown emails.  

Additionally, the public is urged to download software only from trusted sources. 

This precaution can reduce the risk of accidentally installing harmful programs disguised as legitimate files.  

The agency also emphasized the importance of enabling multifactor authentication for online banking and financial accounts. 

This measure provides an added layer of security to protect sensitive information.  

Keeping antivirus software updated is another critical step recommended by NITDA. 

The agency also advised against using public Wi-Fi for financial transactions, as these networks are often vulnerable to cyberattacks.  

Lastly, NITDA urged Nigerians to regularly monitor their bank accounts for unauthorized activities, which can help detect and promptly address suspicious transactions.  

“Cyber threats like Grandoreiro are evolving, and users need to stay vigilant and adopt robust security practices to protect their information,” NITDA said in its statement.  

The agency called on the public to adhere to these security measures to safeguard their financial and personal data.

The dangerous consequences of Nigeria’s tax reform bills on IT infrastructure and the race for Artificial Intelligence

By Haruna Chiroma

The tax reform bill is currently stirring controversy. It poses a severe threat to the growth of information and communication technology (ICT) in Nigeria, as it proposes to terminate funding for the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) by 2027. When I first read this shocking news in the newspapers, I was compelled to investigate further. A section of the bill explicitly states, “National Information Technology Development Fund: 20% in 2025 and 2026 years of assessment, and 0% in 2027 and thereafter.” This provision indicates a progressive reduction of NITDA’s funding until complete withdrawal by 2027. At a time when nations worldwide are significantly increasing their investments in technology to drive innovation and economic growth, Nigeria’s decision to defund its premier ICT development agency is deeply concerning.

Globally, governments play a pivotal role in funding and coordinating computing technological advancements through agencies like NITDA. Leading examples include the U.S., where El Capitan, the most powerful supercomputer with over 11 million processors, is hosted at the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory with government funding. Similarly, Japan’s Fugaku supercomputer, Italy’s Leonardo supercomputer at the Interuniversity Consortium for Automatic Computing of North-East Italy, and China’s Sunway Taihulight supercomputer at the National Supercomputing Center are all funded and maintained in millions of dollars by their respective governments. These centres drive artificial intelligence (AI), climate research, and national security breakthroughs.

Nigeria’s move to stop NITDA’s funding undermines its ability to establish comparable infrastructure, potentially sidelining the nation in the global race for technological leadership, especially in this era of AI boom. NITDA needs a significant increase in government funding, not a reduction or cessation of funding. This support is essential for transitioning from its current focus on providing basic systems with internet connectivity to delivering advanced computing infrastructure. 

The NITDA has been instrumental in providing IT infrastructure to tertiary institutions and centres across Nigeria, aiming to enhance hands-on experience with technology. While this initiative has made IT resources more accessible, its impact has been limited due to the basic nature of the infrastructure provided. NITDA often delivers facilities such as buildings with basic computing devices and internet connectivity.

Although helpful, this approach falls short of addressing the advanced needs of tertiary institutions, which should be hubs for high-impact research, innovation, and technological development. The computers provided in institutions should have at least one server with 4 GPUs, multi-GPU systems, Dual GPU Xeon W-2400, and advanced workstations capable of running 70 billion parameter models. Such limited interventions fail to prepare Nigeria to lead Africa in technological advancements and global IT competitiveness.

Tertiary institutions are critical for pioneering research and fostering innovations that drive national development. However, the resources provided by NITDA rarely go beyond basic systems, leaving institutions ill-equipped to conduct groundbreaking research or develop cutting-edge technologies. High-impact research requires advanced state-of-the-art computing infrastructure, advanced software tools, and specialized facilities, all of which are currently lacking. As the “Giant of Africa,” Nigeria should empower its higher education system with resources to catalyze technological breakthroughs, enabling the country to lead in global innovation. Unfortunately, the limited scope of NITDA’s current offerings restricts this potential.

Rather than addressing these shortcomings, the proposed tax reform bill aims to phase out budget allocations for NITDA by 2027. This move is a significant setback for a developing nation that aspires to secure a place on the global technology map. Eliminating funding for NITDA would exacerbate the already inadequate IT infrastructure in tertiary institutions, undermining efforts to equip students with the skills needed for the Fourth Industrial Revolution. It would also signal a lack of commitment to nurturing a robust ecosystem for research and innovation, essential for long-term economic growth.

Increasing funding for NITDA is crucial to ensure it can provide an infrastructure capable of supporting advanced research and development. By investing in high-performance computing clusters, research laboratories, and innovation hubs, NITDA could transform tertiary institutions into true centres of excellence. Such investments would enhance education quality, foster industry partnerships, and attract global attention to Nigeria’s technological capabilities. These steps are necessary to empower students and researchers to develop solutions that address local and global challenges.

The NITDA should refocus its efforts from constructing buildings to investing solely in advanced IT infrastructure and power solutions. Beneficiary institutions can provide the necessary physical space, allowing NITDA to channel its budget toward cutting-edge computing systems and robust power setups essential for research and development. This shift would maximize resources and provide institutions with tools to foster innovation, invention, and impactful research and development.

NITDA’s approach should prioritize building supercomputers with at least 400,000 processors (mostly accelerators) capable of handling complex computations and simulations required for high-impact research. Additionally, data centre storage units with capacities in petabytes should be established to support the growing demand for data-driven research and AI training models.

Cybersecurity infrastructure must be provided in the relevant institutions equipped to monitor Nigeria’s cyberspace, conduct advanced forensic investigations, innovate, research, and defend against cyber threats. This holistic approach would create a technological ecosystem capable of addressing the needs of both academia and the nation, bridging the gap between research, innovation, and real-world applications.

Rather than building and distributing basic computing devices across institutions, which provide limited value, NITDA should aim to establish at least one high-performance computing and cybersecurity centre in Nigeria’s six geopolitical regions. Establishing high-performance computing centres in each region is a strategic move that could transform the nation’s technological and research landscape. These centres would serve as centralized hubs for cutting-edge computation, enabling tertiary institutions and regional research bodies to access advanced resources essential for high-impact research, innovation, invention and technology development.

These centres would empower researchers and students to engage in frontier areas such as AI, climate modelling, biotechnology, and space exploration by providing access to supercomputers with thousands of processors, vast petabyte-scale data storage facilities, and state-of-the-art cybersecurity infrastructure.

To ensure sustainability and efficiency, these HPC centres should be supported by reliable power infrastructure, skilled personnel, and strategic funding models. Power-intensive facilities like these require an uninterrupted energy supply, which could be addressed through investments in renewable energy solutions such as solar farms or microgrids.

Haruna Chiroma, a University Professor of Artificial Intelligence, wrote from the University of Hafr Al Batin, Saudi Arabia, via freedonchi@yahoo.com.

The ethics of artificial intelligence: Balancing innovation and responsibility

By Oluseyi Sodiya

In an era where artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly reshaping industries and daily life, the ethical implications of this technology have become a subject of paramount importance. While AI holds the promise of groundbreaking advancements, it also presents significant ethical challenges that society must address to ensure a responsible path forward.

The Promise of AI

Artificial intelligence has the potential to revolutionize various sectors, from healthcare and education to finance and transportation. In healthcare, AI can analyze vast amounts of data to identify patterns and predict disease outbreaks, leading to earlier and more accurate diagnoses. In education, adaptive learning systems can provide personalized instruction tailored to each student’s needs, enhancing learning outcomes. Financial institutions are using AI to detect fraudulent activities and automate routine tasks, increasing efficiency and security. However, these benefits come with a caveat. The rapid deployment of AI technologies often outpaces the establishment of ethical frameworks to govern their use. This gap raises critical questions about privacy, bias, and accountability.

Privacy Concerns

One of the foremost ethical concerns surrounding AI is privacy. AI systems often rely on large datasets that include personal information. While these datasets enable AI to function effectively, they also pose risks to individual privacy. The use of AI in surveillance, for example, has sparked debates about the extent to which personal data should be collected and analyzed. To strike a balance, it is essential to develop robust data protection laws and ensure that AI systems are designed with privacy-preserving techniques.

Bias and Fairness

Another significant ethical issue is the potential for AI to perpetuate and even exacerbate existing biases. AI systems learn from historical data, which may contain biases reflecting societal inequalities. If not carefully managed, AI can reinforce these biases, leading to unfair outcomes. For instance, in hiring processes, biased AI algorithms may favour certain demographics over others, perpetuating discrimination. Addressing this issue requires a concerted effort to ensure that AI systems are trained on diverse and representative datasets, and that their decision-making processes are transparent and auditable.

Accountability

The question of accountability is also central to the ethical use of AI. When AI systems make decisions that affect people’s lives, who is responsible for the outcomes? The complexity of AI algorithms can make it difficult to trace the decision-making process, leading to a lack of accountability. To address this, it is crucial to establish clear guidelines that define the roles and responsibilities of AI developers, users, and regulators. Implementing mechanisms for auditing and monitoring AI systems can also help ensure that they are used responsibly.

Balancing Innovation and Responsibility

To harness the full potential of AI while addressing its ethical challenges, a balanced approach is needed. Policymakers, technologists, and society at large must collaborate to develop ethical guidelines that promote innovation while safeguarding human values. This includes investing in research on ethical AI, promoting transparency and accountability, and fostering public awareness about the implications of AI technologies.
In conclusion, as AI continues to advance, it is imperative to strike a balance between innovation and responsibility. By addressing the ethical concerns associated with AI, we can unlock its transformative potential while ensuring that it serves the greater good. The journey toward ethical AI is a shared responsibility, and only through collective efforts can we navigate the complex landscape of technological progress and human values.

40% of mechanics in Kano are out of business— NATA

By Anwar Usman

The Chairman of the Nigerian Automobile Technicians Association, Kano State Council, Yahya Ibrahim, on Wednesday, lamented over the negative impact of the fuel subsidy removal on the livelihoods of the association’s members.

Ibrahim, noted this during a courtesy visit to the Chairman, Rano Local Government Area, he explains that the severe poverty being faced by mechanics was as a result of the puel subsidy removal.

The Zonal Information officer, Rabiu Kura, in a press statementsaid “40 per cent of mechanics in Kano are out of business due to the fuel subsidy removal, a situation that rapidly led to the decline of patronage of motorists.”

He explained that low patronage from motorists, who are struggling with the ongoing economic challenges, has led to a significant decline in business.

He called on the Kano State Government to intervene and provide support to help mechanics stay afloat.

The visit coincides with preparations for the NATA’s upcoming local government council election.

Earlier, the association’s Secretary, Sani Umar, praised Governor Abba Yusuf for his readiness to establishing a mechanical village in Kano.

In his remarks, the council Chairman, Muhammad Yau, thanked them for the visit and prayed for a successful election.

Impact of social media on teenagers

By Zainab Haruna Abba

Social media has become an integral part of teenagers’ lives, but its impact on their well-being and mental health is a topic of concern.

Social media allows teenagers to connect with friends and family, share their thoughts and experiences, and access information and resources. It can also provide a platform for self-expression and creativity. Additionally, social media can be a powerful tool for raising awareness about important issues and promoting social change.

The impact of social media on teenagers can be significant. It’s not just a case of losing sleep and getting distracted during the day; social media can have far-reaching adverse effects on a teen’s mental health.

As the adolescent brain is still developing, it’s more vulnerable to time online. And since teens can sometimes struggle to self-regulate their screen time, their exposure and the risk of harm increases. As a result, teens’ social media use often correlates with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, envy and loneliness.

However, parents can take steps to encourage responsible use of social media and limit its negative effects. Setting reasonable limits on social media use is crucial. Parents should talk to their teens about avoiding interference with important activities such as sleep, meals, or homework. Establishing a bedtime routine that avoids electronic media use and keeping cellphones and tablets out of bedrooms is also essential.

Monitoring teens’ social media accounts regularly is vital. Parents should let their teens know they will check their accounts and follow through. Explaining what’s not okay to share or do online, such as gossiping, spreading rumours, bullying, or damaging someone’s reputation, is also important.

Encouraging face-to-face contact with friends is particularly important for teens who are vulnerable to social anxiety disorder. Parents should talk openly about social media and its potential impact, sharing their experiences and habits and asking teens how they use it and how it makes them feel.

Reminding teens that social media is full of unrealistic images can help mitigate negative effects. Parents can also help protect their teens by setting guidelines and teaching responsible use.

An estimated 4.9 billion people worldwide are expected to use social media in 2023. For teens who grow up with technology, those digital platforms are woven into the fabric of their lives.

“Social media is here to stay,” said Mary Alvord, PhD, a clinical psychologist in Maryland and adjunct professor at George Washington University and a member of the APA panel. That doesn’t mean we have to accept its dangers, however. “Just as we decide when kids are old enough to drive, and we teach them to be good drivers, we can establish guidelines and teach children to use social media safely,” Alvord said.

NCC retracts statement on Starlink’s subscription price increase

By Uzair Adam

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has issued a public clarification regarding its earlier statement on Starlink’s subscription price hike, stating that it was released in error.

Initially, the NCC expressed surprise at Starlink’s announcement of new subscription rates in Nigeria, asserting that the company had not obtained regulatory approval for the price increase.

The Commission acknowledged that while Starlink had submitted a request for a price review, a decision had not yet been made.

The original statement also alluded to potential regulatory infractions under the Nigerian Communications Act (NCA) 2003.

However, the NCC now clarifies that the previous statement was premature and has urged all media outlets to retract any related publications.

Reuben Muoka, the Director of Public Affairs at the NCC, stated, “We request that all media platforms kindly withdraw the previously issued statement on Starlink’s price hike, as it was issued in error.”

He further asked those who published the statement to remove it from their platforms.

The NCC remains dedicated to ensuring regulatory stability and creating a favorable environment for investment in the telecommunications sector, especially as stakeholders continue to call for a review of tariffs to encourage further investment.

The Commission appreciates the cooperation of the media and apologizes for any confusion or inconvenience caused by the earlier release.

Samsung may discontinue Galaxy S series base model by 2026

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Samsung is reportedly considering a major shake-up in its flagship Galaxy S line, potentially discontinuing the base model by 2026.

According to well-known leaker Ice Universe, the company may forgo the Galaxy S26 and instead launch only the Galaxy S26+ and Galaxy S26 Ultra in January 2026.

The alleged decision is driven by the base model’s decreasing competitiveness in the market, especially as Chinese brands prepare to release smaller devices with flagship-level specs.

While the Galaxy S25 is expected to hold its ground, its successor, the Galaxy S26, may struggle to remain viable.

This move would reflect Samsung’s strategy with its flagship tablet line, where the standard Galaxy Tab S10 was discontinued, which left only the Galaxy Tab S10+ and Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra.

While Ice Universe has a solid track record, this rumor should be approached with caution, as the source is known for occasional exaggeration.

If true, this development would mark a notable shift in Samsung’s flagship smartphone strategy, and will focus on premium models and potentially redefining the Galaxy S.

Xiaomi overtakes Apple to claim 2nd spot in August global smartphone sales

By Sabiu Abdullahi  

Xiaomi has secured the second position in Counterpoint Research’s global monthly sell-through volumes for August, surpassing Apple, which dropped to third place.

Samsung maintained its lead in the market.  

According to Counterpoint Research, Xiaomi’s shipment figures remained steady in August, while Apple’s seasonal decline in shipments, ahead of the iPhone 16 series launch, contributed to its declining market share.  

A Counterpoint analyst noted, “Xiaomi has been growing rapidly in 2024 with 22% year-over-year growth in sales volume.”

The company’s success in the sub-$200 price range has been a significant factor, driven by the popularity of the Redmi 13 and Note 13 series devices in key markets such as India, Southeast Asia, Latin America, the Middle East, and Africa.  

These devices have been instrumental in Xiaomi’s growth, and this soldiers the Chinese company’s position as a major player in the global smartphone market.  

The August sales figures demonstrate Xiaomi’s increasing influence and Apple’s pre-launch slowdown, setting the stage for intense competition in the smartphone market.