These are the new and enhanced features of locker codes in NBA 2K25 and how to use them to your advantage.

1. Limited-Time Event Locker Codes

In NBA 2K25, locker codes are now more tied to real-time events, offering players the chance to unlock special content tied to live games, special seasons, or player milestones. These limited-time codes are often available for only a few hours, rewarding players who stay updated and participate actively. By keeping an eye on news about upcoming NBA events, you can be ready to snag these codes when they drop. For instance, popular sports news websites like Sports Illustrated frequently cover updates about NBA-related events, which can help you stay ahead of the curve in collecting valuable locker codes.

2. Integration With MyTeam Challenges

One of the standout new features in NBA 2K25 is the integration of locker codes with MyTeam challenges. These codes are now not just for unlocking player packs or in-game currency but are directly tied to completing challenges that can give you even more valuable rewards. Players are encouraged to participate in challenges that allow them to progress through different modes in the game, further enhancing the experience of locker codes in NBA 2K25. Staying consistent with these challenges will ensure a steady stream of rewards.

3. Enhanced Rewards Based On Team Builds

Locker codes in NBA 2K25 have become more personalized to a player’s team composition. Whether you’re focusing on building a defensively strong team or an offense-heavy roster, locker codes will provide rewards that align with your strategies. This is a huge upgrade from previous editions, where locker codes were more generic. You now have the opportunity to bolster specific areas of your team based on your gameplay style. This creates a more strategic approach to using locker codes and makes them a must-have tool for serious MyTeam competitors.

Additionally, the NBA 2k25 cover athlete is another exciting part of the game, and knowing who the featured athlete is can give players access to themed content through locker codes, offering player cards, special jerseys, and unique perks. Keeping up with these updates allows you to stay informed and unlock exclusive rewards tied to this year’s cover star.

4. Expanded Accessibility And Notifications

In response to player feedback, NBA 2K25 has made locker codes more accessible than ever before. Players can now receive real-time notifications in the game when new codes are released, ensuring they don’t miss out on any time-sensitive rewards. Moreover, the user interface has been updated to make entering locker codes more seamless, reducing frustration for players trying to quickly input codes during high-traffic events. Staying connected to reliable sources like Bleacher Report can also help you stay updated on new locker codes and ensure that you maximize your opportunities for rewards.

5. Season-Based Locker Codes For MyCareer And The W

Another exciting addition to locker codes in NBA 2K25 is the introduction of season-based codes for both MyCareer and The W modes. These codes will help players unlock exclusive items such as gear, animations, and even special boosts for their characters. As seasons progress, new codes will become available, encouraging players to stay engaged throughout the year.

In conclusion, NBA 2K25 has taken locker codes to a new level, offering more personalized, event-driven, and challenge-based rewards than ever before. Whether you’re focusing on MyTeam or MyCareer, locker codes are essential for optimizing your gameplay experience.

The post Exploring the New Features of Locker Codes in NBA 2K25 appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

In response to this trend, Visa, in collaboration with the Uganda Bankers Association, introduced the Sasuza Visa initiative to raise awareness and educate consumers about the myriad benefits of Visa card payments, emphasizing convenience and the absence of transaction fees. The initiative represents a concerted effort to empower Ugandans to explore the possibilities of digital transactions while emphasizing the security and reliability of Visa cards.

However, as the adoption of card payments in Uganda gains pace with a 24.9% increase translating to 2.4 million users conducting transactions worth over UGX500 billion in December 2023 (according to The Daily Monitor), security concerns must also take center stage. Upholding the integrity of card payments is paramount to maintaining the trust and credibility of digital transactions among Ugandans.

With this in mind, it is imperative to delve into strategies that empower Ugandans to keep their card payments secure. We explore six key practices that can safeguard the integrity of card transactions and uphold consumers’ confidence in Uganda’s evolving digital economy.

Protect your PIN 

One should always safeguard their personal identification numbers (PINs) by prioritizing the use of non-obvious combinations and avoiding easily guessable sequences by fraudsters. Furthermore, memorize your PINs rather than writing them down and refrain from sharing them with anyone, family members inclusive. 

During transactions, you should also maintain awareness of their surroundings and ensure privacy during PIN entry to mitigate unauthorized access to their accounts by shielding the input of PINs from prying eyes or potential “shoulder surfers” who may attempt to take a peek at your details as you authorize payment. 

Regularly monitor account activity 

You can utilize online banking platforms and mobile applications to regularly review recent transactions from your Visa card as well as account balances. This vigilance can help you promptly spot any suspicious activity or unauthorized transactions and withdrawals that could be made without your prior knowledge or approval. 

Avoid public wireless access for financial transactions

While convenient, public Wi-Fi networks pose significant security risks when used for personal financial transactions. These networks are usually treasure troves for fraudsters looking to steal and exploit your personal card information amid the increased adoption of digital channels for payment. On that note, you are advised to use personal and private secure networks to reduce the likelihood of unauthorized access and data breaches while authorizing or completing card payments on your phone, tablet, or laptop. 

Look for the “s” in the “https”

Always be vigilant and look out for internet security protocols while paying for items on the internet. Before inputting payment details on the check-out page of e-commerce, streaming, or any vendor website, you must verify the security of that website by checking for the presence of “https://” at the beginning of the URL and the appearance of a padlock icon in the browser’s address bar. These aspects signal a secure website and connection for your card transactions and reduce the risk of fraudulent activities

Beware of phishing scams

Beware of unsolicited emails or calls seeking personal card information, a tactic often employed by cybercriminals and never used by legitimate financial institutions under the Uganda Bankers Association. When you receive any communications that usually elicit a sense of urgency, take a step back and check for misspellings or suspicious sender addresses. To clear doubts, contact the purposed sender or institution directly through verified channels to authenticate their requests. 

Furthermore, you should exercise caution when interacting with unfamiliar communications and avoid downloading attachments from unknown sources that can contain trojan horses that can expose your personal information. One way to do this is through utilizing tools like Google Safe Browsing to verify the safety of links before engaging with them.

Watch for skimmers 

When around ATMs or paying for groceries, meals, or fuel, be on the lookout for fraudsters who may have skimming devices stealthily installed on point-of-sale machines to capture card information from unsuspecting users. When presented with a point-of-sale machine, check for any signs of tampering or suspicious wire attachments that may indicate the presence of a skimming device. In addition to always inspecting POS machines, review your bank statements and notifications (email and SMS) after each transaction to check for potential double transactions that can also present as skimming attempts. 

As Ugandans embrace the convenience and efficiency of cashless transactions, ensuring the security of card payments becomes paramount. By implementing the strategies outlined above — protecting PINs, monitoring account activity, avoiding public Wi-Fi for financial transactions, verifying website security, being cautious of phishing scams, and one-click services, and staying vigilant against skimmers — Ugandans can navigate the digital landscape with confidence and trust which remain vital to progressing the country’s journey to a cashless society.

The post Six Ways Ugandans Can Keep Their Card Payments Secure appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

Highlighting a special emphasis on gender, at least half of the investment funds will be dedicated to businesses owned or led by women. This collaboration aligns with the broader vision of promoting women’s access to finance and fostering higher developmental impact, especially in sectors such as agriculture, health, manufacturing, transport, trade, education, renewable energy, and clean water.

The project is in line with both Ugandan and European Union (EU) priorities, aiming to enhance inclusive growth and sustainable economic development by empowering women. Gender inclusion stands as a central theme in Uganda’s Vision for 2040, emphasizing the reduction of gender inequalities to drive socio-economic transformation.

The European Investment Bank, as the first multilateral lender to sign the 2X Challenge Criteria, commits to offering at least 30% of its investment support to businesses related to women. In this partnership, the threshold is raised to 50%, reinforcing the strong commitment to enhancing the socio-economic conditions of women.

During the signing ceremony, Edward Claessen, EIB Head of the Regional Hub for East Africa, expressed the bank’s dedication to supporting entrepreneurship and business development, particularly for women. “The collaboration, aligned with the celebration of International Women’s Day, emphasizes the shared commitment to address systemic gender inequality in accessing capital,” he said.

Michael Mugabi, CEO of Housing Finance Bank, emphasized the bank’s dedication to strategic partnerships that contribute to Uganda’s socio-economic development. He said, “The investment will play a crucial role in supporting micro, small, and medium enterprises, especially those owned by women, aligning with the bank’s strategic plan for 2023/27.”

This collaboration marks a significant step forward in narrowing the gender-based digital divide, providing new opportunities for rural communities, and fostering sustainable development in Uganda. Beyond the financial support, the initiative includes technical assistance under the African Women Rising Initiative delivered by the EIB.

Ambassador Jan Sadek, Head of the European Union Delegation to Uganda, highlighted the substantial contribution this loan will make towards the objectives of the Team Europe Initiative, promoting sustainable business and investing in young businesses in Africa.

Entrepreneurs in Uganda also stand to benefit from the EIB’s SheInvest initiative launched in 2019, committing to mobilize €2 billion (approx. UGX8.5 trillion) of gender-responsive investment across Africa, with a focus on empowering female-led businesses.

The partnership with financial institutions aims to address market challenges and enhance financial inclusiveness, recognizing the key role strong financial intermediaries play in promoting economic growth.

The EIB, in collaboration with various financial institutions in Uganda, has a history of providing substantial support to private sector businesses, with a focus on agriculture and gender thematic sectors. Technical assistance is an integral part of this support, covering areas such as risk management, product development, environmental and social assessment, and financial literacy.

The post EIB Global, Housing Finance Bank to Invest €25M on Women-led Businesses appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

Amidst this shifting landscape, the benefits of card payments (convenience, security, and zero transaction fees among others) provide another viable option for payments given the significant rise in bank account ownership from seven million in 2016 to over 23 million today. However, several myths and misconceptions among Ugandans continue to hinder their full adoption and usage in comparison to received channels like mobile money. 

In recognition of this challenge, Visa, in collaboration with the Ugandan Bankers Association, an umbrella organization for at least 34 supervised financial institutions, launched the Sasuza campaign in 2021. This initiative aims to create awareness and consumer education on the benefits and convenience of Visa card payments by encouraging consideration and trial. We debunk the common myths that Ugandans have about card payments. 

1. Card Payments are Expensive

One of the most common misconceptions about card payments is that they are expensive. Some Ugandans believe that using cards for transactions comes with hidden charges from merchants, making them less cost-effective than cash.

However, this is not true. Unlike mobile money transactions, all Visa payments attract zero transaction fees for every payment made by a card user. Visa, in collaboration with the Uganda Bankers Association, is educating customers about zero transaction fees as well as the Bank of Uganda’s circular banning the addition of surcharges by merchants for any card payments. You can access the educational document HERE

2. Card Payments are Insecure

Another myth that surrounds card payments is the belief that they are not secure. Some people worry that using their card online or at a point-of-sale terminal puts their personal and financial information at risk of being stolen by hackers or fraudsters.

While it’s true that there are risks associated with any form of digital transaction, card payments are highly secure when proper precautions are taken. Globally, Visa has invested more than $10 Billion in technology upgrades to reduce fraud and enhance security which led to over $27.1 billion worth of attempted fraudulent payments across 122 million transactions, stopping fraudsters in their tracks in 2022 alone.

Furthermore, Visa is partnering with banks and merchants to implement these security features and educate consumers about best practices for card security.

3. Card Payments Are Only for Large Purchases

The misconception that card payments are only suited for large purchases overlooks the versatility and convenience they offer for transactions of any size. From buying a morning cup of coffee to investing in major appliances, card payments streamline the purchasing process for both consumers. 

Moreover, the widespread adoption of contactless payment technology has further facilitated the use of cards for small transactions, allowing for quick and hassle-free payments. As consumer preferences shift towards digital transactions, the notion that card payments are exclusively for significant expenses is rapidly becoming outdated, highlighting the adaptability and accessibility of card-based payment systems in today’s economy.

4. Card Payments Lead to Overspending

The myth that card payments lead to overspending is rooted in the misconception that the ease of swiping a card fosters impulsive buying. However, the reality is that responsible spending habits are independent of the payment method. Whether using cash or cards, it’s the individual’s discipline and financial literacy that dictate their spending behavior.

Effective budgeting techniques, such as setting spending limits, tracking expenses, and prioritizing needs over wants, are crucial for managing finances responsibly regardless of payment method. With conscious efforts to cultivate self-control and financial awareness, card payments can be harnessed as practical tools for staying within budget and achieving financial goals. Thus, rather than blaming the payment method, empowering individuals with financial education and sound money management practices is key to fostering responsible spending habits in the digital age.

5. Card Payments are Only for High-Income Individuals

The prevailing belief that card payments are exclusively reserved for a select group of individuals perpetuates a misconception that undermines the widespread adoption of cashless transactions in Uganda. However, a closer examination of the accessibility and user-friendliness of card payment systems reveals a far more inclusive and accommodating landscape than commonly perceived.

Contrary to the notion that card payments cater only to a privileged few, most financial institutions under the Uganda Bankers Association offer debit cards to customers as a standard feature upon opening an account. This means that whether one is a seasoned professional, a small business owner, or a student embarking on their financial journey, the accessibility of debit cards serves as a gateway to a more convenient and secure mode of conducting transactions. 

Moreover, the user-friendly nature of card terminals and point-of-sale systems further enhances the accessibility of card payments to individuals across different technological proficiency levels. Designed with simplicity and intuitiveness in mind, these systems empower users to navigate the transaction process with ease, regardless of their familiarity with digital technology.

6. Contactless Payments Are Less Secure Than Traditional Swipe Methods

Contactless payments, allowing consumers to tap cards or mobile devices on terminals, have surged in popularity for their speed and convenience. Despite their rising acceptance, concerns linger about their security and vulnerability to interception or unauthorized access. compared to traditional swiping methods.

In reality, contactless payments employ advanced encryption and tokenization (a process of replacing the traditional payment card account number with a unique digital token in online and mobile transactions) which safeguard sensitive data against interception and fraud while ensuring data protection throughout customer transactions.

While no payment method is risk-free, the benefits of contactless payments—faster transactions and enhanced security—far outweigh perceived vulnerabilities. With ongoing advancements and industry adherence, contactless payments redefine convenience and security in modern finance, inviting consumers to embrace their efficiency confidently.

With these common myths and misconceptions debunked, we hope that you can freely and securely use a Visa card for your next payment —whether as small as UGX5,000 for a cup of coffee or any higher transaction online as we progress to a cashless economy.

The post Common Card Payments Myths and Misconceptions by Ugandans Debunked appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

The introduction of the “Sasuza Visa” campaign in 2021, spurred by the Bank of Uganda’s directive to eliminate merchant surcharges and minimum transaction thresholds, marked a significant milestone in the adoption of card payments. This initiative, complemented by efforts from supervised financial institutions under the Uganda Bankers Association and fintechs, has led to a notable increase in card usage with active debit cards surging by 22% to 3.3 million, accompanied by a 23.5% rise in transaction volumes. Moreover, credit card transfers surged by 60.7% to UGX 66.4 billion, with a 10.4% increase in POS transactions.

Despite these advancements, there remains untapped potential in the realm of card payments. With merchants no longer imposing surcharges, the benefits of transitioning to card payments are becoming increasingly evident. In this exploration, we delve into the diverse advantages that card payments offer to Ugandans, emphasizing the ongoing significance of the second edition of the Sasuza Visa campaign.

1. Convenience

First and foremost, the convenience offered by card payments cannot be overstated. Whether it’s purchasing groceries, dining out, or refueling vehicles, the days of grappling with cash and hunting for exact change are swiftly becoming a relic of the past. Visa’s global acceptance ensures that Ugandan consumers can transact seamlessly not just locally, but also internationally, eliminating the need for cumbersome currency exchange processes.

Moreover, the advent of contactless payment technology brings in a new era of transactional efficiency. With a simple tap, consumers can expedite their purchases which in turn reduces waiting times and enhances overall convenience. This innovation aligns with the evolving needs and preferences of modern consumers, who prioritize speed and simplicity in their transactions.

2. Security

In an age marked by escalating cyber threats and financial fraud, security emerges as a paramount concern for consumers. Fortunately, card payments offer robust built-in security features, including encryption technologies and dynamic data authentication. Visa’s tap-to-pay technology, bolstered by EMV chips, provides an added layer of protection against fraudulent activities, mitigating risks associated with traditional magnetic stripe cards.

Furthermore, Visa’s zero-liability policy and cardholder protection initiatives instill confidence among consumers, assuring them of recourse in the event of unauthorized transactions. As fraudsters deploy increasingly sophisticated tactics, the security afforded by card payments becomes indispensable, safeguarding consumers’ financial interests and fostering trust in digital transactions.

3. Accountability

Beyond transactions, card payments catalyze financial empowerment and literacy. Debit cards, in particular, offer real-time insights into individuals’ spending habits, enabling them to make informed financial decisions and exercise prudent budgeting practices. By leveraging intuitive banking apps and online platforms, consumers gain unprecedented visibility into their financial portfolios, facilitating proactive financial management.

The ability to monitor spending patterns in real time equips consumers with the tools to track expenses, identify trends, and adjust budgets accordingly. This heightened accountability fosters a culture of financial responsibility, empowering individuals to take charge of their financial well-being and pursue long-term financial goals with confidence.

4. Building a Credit Score

Perhaps most importantly, card payments play a pivotal role in shaping individuals’ financial futures by facilitating the establishment of credit histories and scores. Prudent use of credit cards empowers individuals to seize opportunities and fortify their financial futures. Credit card usage plays a vital role in cultivating robust credit scores, and facilitating access to credit from a variety of financial institutions. By extending credit for transactions, credit cards necessitate timely repayment, reflecting responsible credit management and fostering positive credit scores over time.

A strong credit score offers numerous advantages, including favorable loan terms, expanded credit limits, and lower interest rates. This bolsters individuals’ credibility as borrowers, increasing the likelihood of loan approval and smoothing financial transactions and negotiations. Ultimately, credit cards function not merely as transactional tools but as vehicles for building financial health and enhancing one’s standing in the financial landscape.

5. Rewards and Loyalty Programs

In addition to their transactional functionality, present an array of rewards and loyalty programs designed to enrich the cardholder experience. From cashback offers to travel perks and exclusive privileges, these programs incentivize continued card usage while enhancing consumer value. Tiered reward structures encourage consumers to maximize their spending, unlocking increasingly attractive benefits and reinforcing brand loyalty in the process.

Beyond the financial incentives, credit card rewards offer access to exclusive experiences and tailored services, elevating the overall consumer experience. Whether it’s VIP treatment at airports or complimentary hotel stays, these perks cater to consumers’ diverse lifestyles and preferences, transforming mundane transactions into memorable moments.

Ultimately, the case for Ugandans to switch to card payments is compelling and multifaceted. From convenience and enhanced security to empowerment through financial literacy and access to exclusive rewards, the transition to card payments heralds a new era of financial empowerment and opportunity.

You can join this switch by paying with your Visa card on your next shopping trip or Valentine’s gift today.

The post Why More Ugandans Should Switch to Card Payments appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

From the perspective of a telecoms service provider, a Flash Call can be considered a near-instant dropped call, automatically placed on a mobile device that is used by businesses for identification verification.

Despite the many legitimate use cases, Flash Calls are often abused for questionable and even fraudulent purposes.

“The definitions of Flash Calls tend to be colored by whether the party in question views them as legitimate or fraudulent,” stated Gavin Stewart, Vice President for Sales at telecoms software provider Oculeus.

The impact of Flash Calls

The main purpose of using Flash Calls is to deliver one-time passwords in a manner that evades the delivery charges of SMSs. However, the user experience is inferior and often confusing to the more commonly used SMS channels. Customers are expected to understand that they can extract one-time passwords from the phone number of the missed call. 

In order to make this process smoother, some Flash Call providers now automate this process of retrieving and inputting the PIN code, so it takes place without the customer’s knowledge. However, this only works if the customer first gives away a host of privacy permissions on their device, which further opens vulnerabilities and makes access easier for fraudsters and scammers seeking to hijack their device.

Telecoms providers are also negatively impacted by Flash Calls. Where Flash Calls are prominent, many service providers are seeing less SMS traffic and a decline in revenues for their messaging business units. 

Africa is exposed to Flash Calls

According to Stewart, the reason why Africa is disproportionally impacted by Flash Call relates to the way in which messaging services are priced. 

He explained that when a telecoms operator sends an SMS, it has to pay the receiving party a variable amount for each delivered message, according to a published price tariff. These prices for SMS termination are typically much higher in most African countries. 

“Wherever the delivery cost is especially high, this creates the temptation for fraudsters to evade these charges, and Flash Calls — since they cost nothing — are an obvious method,” said Stewart. 

Countering Flash Calls practices

For individuals, the starting point is realizing they are not obligated to receive Flash Calls. In fact, Flash Calls only land on a mobile device if the customer is using an application dedicated to identification verification through this practice.

“For telecoms operators, they also have a number of available options,” continued Stewart. 

To begin with, Stewart highlighted that telecom operators can consider blocking Flash Calls from their networks. This could have a positive effect pushing traffic back to the revenue-generating SMS channel.

“We have recently upgraded our anti-fraud solutions to clearly identify and validate Flash Call traffic with high accuracy,” said Stewart. This capability, he pointed out, includes the ability to apply various business controls, such as blocking this traffic.

Stewart also recommended that telecom operators begin charging for missed calls and offering pricing for terminating Flash Calls, which he said Oculeus’ anti-fraud software also supports. This option could help telecom operators restore a certain amount of lost revenue from less SMS traffic.

The post Unlocking The Opportunities To Combat Flash Calls in Africa appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

What is Smart Farming?

This is an approach to agriculture that uses technology to optimize crop yields, reduce waste, and minimize environmental impact. It involves the use of various technologies such as sensors, data analytics, drones, and robotics to monitor crop growth, soil moisture, temperature, and other environmental factors. Smart farming enables farmers to make data-driven decisions that help them to produce more food while using fewer resources.

Benefits of Smart Farming

There are several benefits to smart farming, including:

1. Increased productivity: Smart farming technologies enable farmers to monitor crop growth, soil moisture, temperature, and other environmental factors in real-time, which helps them to make data-driven decisions to increase productivity.
2. Reduced waste: Smart farming technologies enable farmers to optimize crop yields, reduce water usage, and minimize the use of chemicals, which helps to reduce waste and increase sustainability.
3. Minimized environmental impact: Smart farming technologies help to minimize the environmental impact of farming by reducing water usage, fertilizer use, and greenhouse gas emissions.
4. Improved efficiency: Smart farming technologies enable farmers to automate many tasks, such as irrigation, fertilizer application, and pest control, which helps to improve efficiency and reduce labor costs. You can also have close-to-perfect estimations of when the harvest will be ready and when you can supply the respective clients.

Getting Started with Smart Farming
Here are some steps to help you get started with smart farming:

1. Assess your needs: The first step in getting started with smart farming is to assess your needs. Determine what problems you are trying to solve and what technologies will help you to solve them.
2. Choose the right technology: Choose the right technology for your needs. There are many different technologies available, such as sensors, drones, and robotics, so it’s important to choose the right one for your specific needs. By using sensors and other technology to monitor soil conditions, weather patterns, and crop growth, farmers can make informed decisions about when to plant, irrigate, fertilize, and harvest their crops. This not only increases yields but also ensures that the crops are of high quality and free from disease or pests.
3. Collect data: Data collection is one of the key elements of smart farming. Determine the sensors and technologies that will help you monitor crop growth, soil moisture, temperature, and other environmental factors.
4. Analyze the data: Use data analytics tools to analyze the data you have collected. This will help you to make data-driven decisions to increase productivity and reduce waste.
5. Implement changes: Implement the changes that you have identified based on your data analysis. This may involve automating tasks such as irrigation or fertilizer application, or adjusting your planting schedule based on weather patterns.

It’s important to continuously monitor your crops and adjust your farming practices as needed. Smart farming is a dynamic process that requires constant attention and adjustment. By monitoring your crops closely and making data-driven decisions, you can ensure that your farming operation is always optimized for maximum yield and profitability.

Conclusion
Smart farming is revolutionizing the way that farmers produce crops and livestock, and is having a significant impact on the supply of goods to consumers. Large-scale farmers who have direct contact with mega hypermarkets and stores like Carrefour Uganda are even able to specify when a product will be ready and when the next delivery can be made.

It’s enabling many farmers to meet the growing demand for fresh, and high-quality products. Farmers who are interested in getting started with smart farming should consider experimenting with sensors, data analysis, and other technology to optimize their production and improve efficiency.

The post What You Need to Know About Smart Farming and How You Can Get Started appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

Gone are the days of slaving over sketches with pencils, markers, or paintbrushes — now you can use drawing tablets to craft your best pieces faster than you ever thought possible.

Graphic tablets offer tremendous precision and control with their pressure sensitivity and sensitive styluses, allowing for crisp lines and accurate brushwork. With vivid displays and expansive customizable palettes, a wide range of best drawing tablets provide a vast array of tools to make your dream images a reality.

Plus, you can save them for later and share them easily with friends and family. Get ready for the future of art!

Drawing Tablets That Will Replace Paintbrushes

In this age of technological advancements, many aspects of our lives have become digital. Also, the days of paintbrushes are long gone. Artists are now switching to graphic or drawing tablets to make art.

Since they came out, drawing tablets have evolved into tools that provide maximum flexibility. As a result, these products have gained a lot of popularity.

Selecting a drawing tablet isn’t easy, considering the many options that are available. That’s why we have curated this list to help you choose a tablet design that suits your needs. One that you can use to replace the paintbrushes and keep your hands from getting dirty.

1. APPLE Ipad Air

The latest generation of Ipad Air, the Apple Ipad Air (5th Gen, 2022), is stunning, to say the least. It sports one of Apple’s M1 silicon chips and is designed with new processors that are currently transforming the firm’s laptops, computers, and tablets. This simply turns into virtual powerhouses.

The Apple iPad Air 5TH generation, 2022, boasts of:

• An M1 chip.
• Maximum brightness of 500 nits.
• A 2360 x 1640 IPS LCD panel that delivers 264 pixels per inch.

What makes this product one of the best tablets for design is its Apple pencil 2 compatibility. The Apple Pencil 2 delivers one of the smoothest and most natural feeling digital drawing experiences on the market.

2. Huion H420

This is one of the most affordable drawing tablets and provides a lot of what designers need. It’s also great for beginners as it gives them new ways of interacting with a compatible software like Adobe Photoshop.

But what corners are you cutting for its price? Remember that with 2,048 levels of pressure sensitivity, you have some precision. But for less than that you’d find more expensive tablet designs. The resolution sits at 4,000 lines per inch, which is a little lower compared to other options. It is, however, totally serviceable for young designers.

There are three assignable keys on the left side of the unit and they serve to give you the function options for your design programs. The other interesting feature is the fact that the iPad measures only about 4.5 x 7 inches. Also, the active area is much smaller at 4 x 2.25 inches.

Although the smaller size might seem limited, it’s helpful for designers on the go. That’s because you can simply toss it in your bag and use it with your laptop.

3. Wacom Drawing Tablet

What sets this product apart from the rest is its ergonomic pressure-sensitive stylus. It comes with a very responsive and easy-to-control pen. That is what enables artists to enjoy the familiar pen-on-paper feeling.

The electromagnetic pen technology provides maximum precision. Also, the stylus is battery-free. The tablet is compatible with the Mac and Windows operating systems, and it also works with the Chromebook. And thanks to its portability and versatility, the Wacom drawing tablet has become a popular choice among students, teachers, and artists.

When buying this product, you can choose from two different sizes. Of course, your decision will be based on your specific needs.

Keep in mind that the manufacturer provides extra pen nibs. The cable included in the box is also enough to allow you to use the tablet comfortably.

4. XP-PEN Drawing Tablets

Drawing tablets have revolutionized the artist’s craft, and XP-PEN tablets are leading the way. Featuring top-notch specs like 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, 5080 LPI resolution, and a wide 11-inch screen, XP-PEN drawing tablets provide complete control over your works of art.

The rubber surface gives it an incredibly natural feel, while the battery-free Pen is perfect for hours of use without worrying about charging the device. What really sets XP-PEN apart from other drawing tablets is its innovative Tilt Control technology.

With this feature, you can tilt up to ±60° angle recognition to adjust line weight by just simply changing how you hold the pen. That taking your masterpieces to the next level!

5. The Flueston LCD Writing Tablet

This tablet is focused on children’s art projects. It’s a small and light device that comes at 10 inches and 7.1 ounces. It also sits between a Kindle and an Etch-a-sketch. So, how does this work?

This device’s screen looks like a black LCD display. But instead of providing fully moving, color pictures, it reacts to the marks you’re making by “scraping off” the black layer. It also exposes the multicolored background underneath.

Note that you aren’t physically scraping any material off. This is just software emulation, and that’s the appearance.

What’s interesting is that the Flueston adapts the flexibility of the LCD crystal. This allows for something that enables children to press down with the included stylus that makes it feel more like a marker. There’s also:

• Screen lock options.
• The eraser functionality.
• The ability to save drawings.

In conclusion, there’s no looking back once you start working with a drawing tablet. That’s because the added level of control and accuracy with your adjustments can’t be likened to any other method. Using a tablet for designing has completely changed many artists’ workflow for the better.

Drawing tablets have revolutionized the way we are able to create artwork. No longer do you need to worry about getting paint or charcoal on your hands, as all you need is a few clicks of a mouse. With the range and quality of pen-based tools available today, any aspiring artist can now express their creativity with ease and precision.

By taking advantage of the latest technology, you can create your masterpiece from the comfort of your own home. Unlocking your inner artist has never been easier.

The post 5 Drawing Tablets Replacing Paintbrushes to Save Your Hands From Getting Dirty appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

You can improve your chances of success by giving yourself the right tools for stock analysis and buying power. Stock trading software can adjust the inherent vulnerability and thoroughly assess strengths. Stock trading software provides automated trading order placement and technical analysis. These are all employed by stock traders to produce gains.

What is Stock Trading Software?
Stock trading software is a powerful computer program designed to help traders initiate, execute, and monitor their trades.

This type of software combines sophisticated analysis tools with real-time data to give its users a comprehensive overview of the markets they are trading in. It enables its users to identify potential trading opportunities as well as track their portfolio investments, analyze risk metrics, and formulate strategies.

By automating many of the complex functions that go hand-in-hand with online trading, stock trading software is able to save traders time and effort while also helping them make informed decisions.

Certain features and functionalities serve as a common base. Even though stock trading software might vary from vendor to vendor (as well as depending on what is being supplied for trade). Deal opening and closing, analytics, and real-time news feeds are a few of these (but not exclusively).

Utilizing stock trading software enables one to see trends and make swift decisions on the passage of orders. It is intended to assist investors in making better share trading decisions. It does this through in-depth research and the most recent technical analysis.

Stock traders heavily rely on stock market software. They use it for speedy buying and selling of shares and assistance in generating the most profits,

Best Features of Stock Trading Software That Help You Make Smart Investment Decisions

Flexibility and Customization
With features such as advanced analysis, automated portfolio management, and backtesting capabilities, stock trading software allows investors to stay ahead of the curve when it comes to tracking trends, volatility, and risk levels.

With continually updated data and algorithms designed to provide accurate analysis in real time, stock trading software clears the way for investors to make smarter decisions, faster. These include indicators, resistance lines, sector comparisons, and more.

When it comes to investing, keeping track of your decisions is key. Stock trading software with real-time charting software features offers you the opportunity to customize visuals as you go. With this tool on hand, you will be able to make well-informed investments while purchasing stocks in no time!

Offering Stock Buying Tools
The main functionality of any stock trading software—and the reason why users interact with it—is the ability to open and close stock trades. Users want a straightforward method of opening and concluding a deal over a stock of their choice after connecting a source of funds and meeting all applicable national compliance requirements.

Online stock trading platforms offer leverage, a tool for increasing a stock’s potential. Leverage must be discussed in the deal open/close sections, together with all of the benefits and hazards it entails.

Other features which help make smarter investments include stopping loss and taking a profit. This lets users set limits on how much loss and profit can be made as a form of insurance.

It Should Allow you to Enter Your Formulae
The majority of software for trading allows you to quickly filter out your stocks based on your criteria. It does this by allowing you to set your algorithms or instructions for choosing stocks. For example, you can create a filter for equities that have seen price growth of a certain percent over the previous week. These can impact your stock buying and selling decisions.

Searching and Statistics Capabilities
Searching and statistics capabilities give you the power to search through millions of historical stock data points, enabling you to identify current trends, evaluate past performance, and assess the potential impact of any proposed change to your trading strategy.

With the aid of predictive analytics, you can identify future trends and make the right moves to gain the maximum benefit from all market opportunities.

Furthermore, integration with other stock markets resources, such as news headlines, charts, and broker analysis, gives you a comprehensive view of the stock market.

Demo Accounts Capabilities
Most trading tools software contain a sizable user base of new users that have no prior knowledge of stock, money, bullion, or commodity. trading software for stocks should offer a variety of teaching tools to educate this otherwise uninformed audience.

A demo account functions just like a live account and includes real data from specific equities while using virtual currency. Users can practice trading using this virtual currency. This can also help to develop the knowledge and assurance necessary to eventually plug in their source of funds and trade life. They can learn some financial strategies on this demo account that will help impact trading decisions

Real-Time Monitoring
Through real-time monitoring, investors can easily access data such as market trends, prices, news, and stock exchange data across multiple exchanges and in different countries.

With this information, investors can quickly understand the current market conditions, so they can make smarter decisions with their stock trades. Real-time monitoring helps ensure investors that they are making the right investment decision at the right time.

Technical Analysis Functionalities
It offers investors the capability to analyze stock market data and trends, by utilizing charts with various indicators and studies, to determine when to buy, sell or hold a stock.

Technical Analysis Functionalities also offers users the ability to spot support & resistance levels for price movements, as well as gain insight into the psychology behind buy and sell decisions.

Investors can adopt certain chart elements, such as sector diagrams, and negative indicators. They can also use resistance lines. This is so that they match their speculative thought processes to the profitability and mood of the market.

Newsfeed Sections
Although stock success can be influenced by several factors news about IPOs, mergers, acquisitions, and company growth can also have a significant impact on stock trends. These provide traders with valuable information before deciding whether or not to buy a certain stock.

Users will make better trading decisions if the stock trading software has news updates that are delivered to them within the app. So they do not need to switch between multiple programs to do so.

Although business-related news can be sourced separately by searching on the web. But users will gain additional value from your stock trading app if you do this.

Community/forum Feature
Stock trading software’s community/forum feature helps investors make smart investment decisions by connecting them with like-minded traders and experienced financial advisors.

This feature encourages a vibrant network of investors who can learn from each other and share their unique perspectives on the stock market. With the community/forum feature, users can easily find reliable sources of information and engage in conversations about the stock market.

As the conversation evolves, so do the knowledge and skills of the traders participating in it.

Conclusion

Investing can be a tricky minefield to navigate but stock software could be the answer you’ve been looking for. From monitoring market performance in real-time to offering portfolio analysis and even providing personalized alerts, stock software can help you make smarter decisions when it comes to investments. It’s also easy to use and usually cost-effective, so there are few excuses not to make it part of your financial plan.

ALSO READ: USEFUL TIPS FOR CHOOSING A SAFE AND SECURE TRADING PLATFORM

The post What is Stock Trading Software, How Can it Help You Make Smart Trading and Investment Decisions appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

Small business loans

Business loans allow businesses to earn money to help them establish themselves and make more money. For example, your business can use fast business loans as an effective way to get the cash you need for a significant purchase quickly.

For example, some businesses need to purchase vehicles while others need machinery. Think about what your business requires to invest in itself so that you can boost your overall profit margin.

However, if you don’t know what to purchase with your loan, hold off until you come up with an idea. Doing so will help you avoid unnecessary debt until you can properly use the money.

Launching your startup

As another critical business expense for a small business, you may need some money to launch your startup. After all, some ideas take thousands of dollars to start, so make sure you calculate what you need for your startup.

Doing so means including all the moving parts to cover your expenses before you make money.

• You can purchase the necessary parts, pieces, and resources.
• You can advertise your business to potential buyers.
• You can have enough money to pay your employees.

Since startups need to start somewhere, debt may help you out. However, if you plan to go into debt, make sure you can make money through your idea.

Lousy business debt comes down to worthless debt

How do you tell the difference between good and bad debt? Ultimately, bad business debt comes down to any debt that becomes worthless. In short, if you go into debt and get nothing out of it, then you run into bad business debt.

For example, bad business debt can form if you invest in a new product type that doesn’t sell well. Lousy business debt can start from any aspect of your business if it doesn’t lead to profits, so keep that in mind as you seek debt.

However, you can’t let potentially harmful business debt stop you from going into debt since you may need to sustain your business.

Controlling debt and spending

Ultimately, if you want to maximize your good business debt, you must control your spending and debt. For example, if you feel a debt poses too much risk to your business, you shouldn’t seek it.

On the other hand, if you don’t think your business can survive without the investment, debt can help you. If you find yourself with excess money once you cover your costs, put the money back into the debt to lower the total interest you pay.

Overall, make sure you control your debt and spending to avoid a poor financial situation for your business.

Parting shot

Ultimately, you want to go into debt as an investment. You spend the money on valuable resources to help you make more money than the debt you owe. Make sure you keep that central point in mind to help you separate good and bad business debt.

ALSO READ: EFFECTIVE WAYS AND TIPS TO START YOUR OWN BUSINESS

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