News
Do You Have Social Media “Friends” on Your List You Don’t Personally Know in Real Life?
du unveiled its compelling #PostWisely campaign that inspires the online community in the UAE to think before they post. A study conducted by du in light of the campaign found that of the 75% of respondents who have been befriended or followed on social media by people they don’t normally interact with, nearly half (49%) accepted 50% or more of these unfamiliar requests—a rather concerning figure.
The #PostWisely campaign was revealed during an interactive session where attendees discussed the dangers of sharing information online and how we can be more responsible about the information we post. In addition, du shared a series of hard hitting Public Service Announcement (PSA) videos that provided a glimpse into the danger lurking on the Internet, as well as survey results detailing UAE social media users’ relationship with the internet. The event was held on November 9, 2016 at WarehouseFour, Al Quoz, Dubai.
“Our aim today is to sensitise audiences about sharing the information that could be detrimental, not only to their lives, but also to their families and wellbeing,” said Hala Badri, Executive Vice President, Brand and Communications, du. “As a responsible business, we saw an opportunity to address this issue head on, as it has been growing in leaps and bounds, and will continue to manifest itself – unless we do something about it.”
“Today we are launching our first Public Service Advertisement Campaign #PostWisely, because we at du believe that it is possible to create a culture of responsible posting and reduce the number of cybercrime incidents through education, collaboration and sharing,” Badri added.
#PostWisely is an initiative aimed at protecting every single resident in the UAE from the threat of cybercrime. In addition to alerting people to the unseen dangers, du is providing a platform for dialogue to take place, and sharing handy tips that prevent residents being vulnerable and encouraging common sense to ensure that ‘sharing’ does not become ‘over sharing’.
Participating at the event were Alex Malouf; MEPRA Vice Chair & Chair, Professional Development & Knowledge Sharing Committee, Sultaneh Naeem; Leadership Personal Growth Expert and Mind Trainer at TWIG and Zabeen Ahmed; Founder & Chief Innovation Officer at Sevia who discussed their take on social media today and how the way that we post has an impact on our overall safety and security.

Apps
Samsung Internet is Now Available for Download on Windows PCs

Samsung’s default browser, Samsung Internet, has expanded its reach to desktop computers and laptops, now available for download on the Microsoft Store. One notable feature is the ability for users to sync their browsing data between their Galaxy devices and computers.
Upon launching the browser, users can import their browsing history, bookmarks, and search engines from other applications like Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge by signing into their Samsung Cloud account. The browser also supports add-ons and extensions from Chrome and Edge, accessible through the Chrome Web Store.
Samsung Internet for Windows offers familiar features such as incognito mode, light and dark modes, and ad-blocker support. The design elements show similarities to both Chrome and Edge, providing a sense of familiarity for users of those browsers. A useful security feature allows users to delete bookmarks, browsing history, passwords, and other data upon signing out, catering to those who share computers.
Despite its promising features, the browser’s PC debut is marred by a lack of complete sync support. Currently, only browsing history, bookmarks, and search engines can be imported, with no support for transferring saved passwords from Galaxy devices to computers. This omission may be addressed in future updates.
In May, Samsung Internet received an optimisation update for Galaxy tablet users. Toggleable features were introduced, allowing users to control the placement of the browser’s address, bookmark, and tab bars. The update also included a warning for users with a high number of open tabs, informing them that opening another tab would result in the deletion of the oldest tab.
Apps
Google Clarifies the Cause of Missing Google Drive Files

Many Google Drive users recently experienced the unsettling disappearance of their files, prompting concerns. Google has now identified the root cause, attributing the issue specifically to the Google Drive for Desktop app. While assuring that only a limited subset of users is affected, the tech giant is actively investigating the matter and promises timely updates.
To prevent inadvertent file deletion, Google provides the following recommendations:
- Avoid clicking “Disconnect account” within Drive for desktop.
- Refrain from deleting or moving the app data folder, located at:
- Windows: %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Local\Google\DriveFS
- macOS: ~/Library/Application Support/Google/DriveFS
- Optionally, create a copy of the app data folder if there is sufficient space on your hard drive.
Before Google officially addressed the issue, distressed users took to the company’s support forum to report deleted files. One user from South Korea highlighted a particularly severe case where their account reverted to May 2023, resulting in the loss of anything uploaded or created after that date. Additionally, the user emphasised that they had not synced or shared their files or drive with anyone else.
As Google delves deeper into resolving this matter, affected users are advised to heed the provided precautions. The company’s commitment to ongoing updates reflects its dedication to swiftly addressing and rectifying the situation. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of proactive measures to safeguard digital data, especially as users navigate cloud-based platforms such as Google Drive.
Gadgets
OnePlus 12 to Get Wireless Charging Again

The imminent launch of the OnePlus 12 is generating anticipation, with OnePlus adhering to its customary practice of revealing specifications and details prior to the official unveiling. Li JieLouis from OnePlus confirmed on Weibo that the OnePlus 12 is scheduled for release in China on December 5, shedding light on several key features of the upcoming flagship.
A predictable yet noteworthy inclusion in the specs is the use of the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3. This powerful processor aligns with the high-performance standards associated with OnePlus devices. Another intriguing detail mentioned is the introduction of a “2K Oriental Screen,” likely referring to the display showcased by OnePlus in October. During this preview, an IR blaster was highlighted, a feature reiterated by JieLouis. Additionally, a brief reference to “rain touch” suggests the incorporation of technology showcased by OnePlus that enhances touchscreen functionality when wet.
The camera setup on the OnePlus 12 is anticipated to feature a Sony Lytia LYT-808 sensor. Earlier teasers provided insights into the camera’s capabilities, showcasing the periscope zoom lens. Drawing parallels with the OnePlus Open, which also utilizes a Sony Lytia sensor, raises expectations for impressive camera performance.
However, the standout revelation is the return of wireless charging on the OnePlus 12. While OnePlus had previously offered wireless charging, it was notably absent in the OnePlus 11 and OnePlus Open without clear justification. The absence left enthusiasts speculating on the feature’s future in OnePlus devices. The specifics of the wireless charging capabilities, such as potential improvements or adherence to previous 50W charging standards, remain undisclosed. Nevertheless, the mere confirmation of its reintroduction has been met with enthusiasm.
Notably, the OnePlus 12’s debut is set for December 5 in China, with global markets expected to receive the device in January, as per reports. The return of wireless charging adds an extra layer of anticipation for OnePlus enthusiasts, and the device’s overall features indicate a promising addition to the OnePlus flagship lineup. With certification underway, there’s speculation that OnePlus might embrace Qi2, potentially making it among the pioneers in adopting this wireless charging standard. As the launch date approaches, the OnePlus 12 holds the promise of delivering an enhanced user experience with its powerful internals and innovative features.