Technology News from Ghana

The latest technology news from Ghana, curated from the country's leading newsrooms and updated through the day. Newest stories first.

Samsung to Unveil Next-Generation Galaxy Z Fold8 and Z Flip8 at London Unpacked Event
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Samsung to Unveil Next-Generation Galaxy Z Fold8 and Z Flip8 at London Unpacked Event

Samsung Electronics has officially set the stage for its next major technological showcase, announcing that the highly anticipated Galaxy Unpacked event will take place on July 22, 2026. Hosted in London, the event carries the evocative tagline "A New Shape Unfolds," signaling a continued commitment to the evolution of foldable smartphone technology. This global launch is expected to be a pivotal moment for the tech giant as it seeks to redefine mobile experiences through a combination of cutting-edge hardware and sophisticated software enhancements. Industry analysts and tech enthusiasts are looking forward to the unveiling of the next generation of the company’s foldable lineup. The event is widely expected to feature the debut of the Galaxy Z Flip8 and the Galaxy Z Fold8. Notably, rumors and early reports suggest the introduction of a premium Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra variant, aimed at power users who demand the highest specifications. Central to these new releases will be their integration into the "AI era," with Samsung expected to showcase innovative features that leverage artificial intelligence to improve productivity, photography, and user interaction. For the global audience, Samsung will livestream the proceedings across multiple digital platforms, ensuring that fans worldwide can witness the reveals in real-time. The broadcast is scheduled to begin at 2:00 p.m. BST. In addition to the product launches, Samsung has opened registration for the event, offering early registrants a chance to enter a prize draw. This engagement strategy underscores the company's effort to build community excitement and reward its loyal customer base ahead of the commercial availability of the new devices. As the smartphone market increasingly pivots toward foldable form factors and generative AI capabilities, this Unpacked event represents Samsung's strategic move to maintain its leadership position. By choosing London as the venue and focusing on "new shapes," the company is emphasizing its role as an innovator in a competitive landscape. The success of these devices will likely influence the direction of mobile technology for the remainder of the decade, setting a benchmark for how hardware design and artificial intelligence can coexist to provide more intuitive and versatile user experiences.

Cambridge University Report Reveals Boko Haram's Strategic Use of AI for Terror Operations
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Cambridge University Report Reveals Boko Haram's Strategic Use of AI for Terror Operations

Recent findings from a Cambridge University study have uncovered a concerning shift in the operational tactics of the jihadist group Boko Haram. Far from merely using digital tools for propaganda, the group has reportedly integrated sophisticated artificial intelligence models, including ChatGPT and Claude, to enhance its combat effectiveness. This development marks a significant transition in how non-state armed groups in West Africa are leveraging emerging technologies to orchestrate violence and bypass traditional security measures, signaling a new era of digital-enabled insurgency. Testimonies from former members of Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) provide a chilling look into the specific applications of these AI tools. According to the report, the group has utilized AI to refine drone deployment strategies, improve the lethality of improvised explosives, and streamline the logistics of planning raids. While earlier assessments of AI in the context of terrorism focused primarily on the spread of disinformation and recruitment materials, these new insights suggest that AI has become an integral component of their physical operational efficiency, allowing them to optimize field tactics with unprecedented speed. The rapid adoption of these tools poses a direct challenge to the safeguards established by AI developers like OpenAI and Anthropic. Despite efforts to implement rigorous safety protocols and content filters designed to prevent the generation of harmful or tactical instructions, the report indicates that terrorist organizations are finding ways to exploit the technology for tactical gain. Security specialists warn that the ability of AI to synthesize complex information and provide instructional support can significantly lower the barrier for carrying out sophisticated attacks, making insurgent strategies more unpredictable and harder for regional security forces to counter. Experts suggest that Boko Haram’s move toward AI-driven warfare is likely an indicator of a much broader global phenomenon where various terrorist groups are adapting similar technologies to bolster their capabilities. The Cambridge report serves as a critical call to action for both technology companies and international security agencies to collaborate on more robust defensive mechanisms and monitoring systems. Addressing this evolving threat will require a multifaceted approach that combines technological oversight with on-the-ground intelligence to mitigate the risks of AI-enhanced terrorism across the continent.

Swiss Regulator Investigates Google Over Removal of Android Search Engine Choice Screen
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Swiss Regulator Investigates Google Over Removal of Android Search Engine Choice Screen

Switzerland’s Competition Commission (COMCO) has launched a preliminary investigation into Google, focusing on the tech giant's decision to remove the "Choice Screen" feature from Android devices within the country. This feature, which traditionally allowed users to select their preferred default search engine during the initial setup of a new device, has reportedly been deactivated for Swiss consumers while remaining operational across other European nations. The regulator is concerned that this move effectively mandates Google as the default search option, potentially stifling competition in the digital search market. The investigation centers on the disparity between Switzerland and the European Economic Area (EEA). While Google continues to provide choice-of-provider options to users in neighboring European countries to comply with regional regulations, the removal of this feature in Switzerland has raised red flags regarding unfair competition practices. COMCO emphasized that default settings play a critical role in consumer behavior, and by locking in its own services as the standard, Google may be placing other search engine providers at a significant disadvantage. Google’s influence in the Swiss digital landscape is substantial, with market data indicating that the company currently commands an 82% share of the search engine market. The preliminary probe will specifically assess whether Google’s actions constitute a breach of the Swiss Cartel Act, which aims to prevent dominant firms from abusing their market position. Authorities are investigating if the lack of a choice screen unfairly leverages Google's existing dominance to prevent competitors from gaining a foothold with Swiss Android users. In response to the announcement, Google has acknowledged the investigation and expressed its intention to cooperate fully with the Swiss authorities. This development comes amid a global wave of regulatory scrutiny against big tech companies regarding their "gatekeeper" status on mobile platforms. As the probe progresses, it will determine if a more formal, in-depth investigation is required to protect the interests of Swiss consumers and ensure a level playing field for all digital service providers in the country.

Sam Nartey George Reverses Job Suspensions at Ghana Digital Centres Following Flood Damage
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Sam Nartey George Reverses Job Suspensions at Ghana Digital Centres Following Flood Damage

The Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Sam Nartey George, has officially assured staff at the Ghana Digital Centres Limited (GDCL) that there will be no job losses despite the significant damage caused by recent flooding. This high-level intervention comes after the Ministry reversed an earlier decision by GDCL management to suspend employment contracts following the devastating floods on June 29, 2026, which severely impacted the Accra Digital Centre. The reversal signals a firm government commitment to protecting livelihoods even in the face of environmental disasters. During a meeting held on July 13, 2026, the Minister met with the affected workers to clarify the government’s position and provide security regarding their employment status. The initial management move to suspend contracts had created widespread anxiety among the workforce at the state-owned technology hub. However, the Minister’s directive ensures that the recovery efforts for the damaged infrastructure will not come at the expense of the employees' positions or financial stability, reinforcing the government's role as a protective employer during crises. Beyond immediate job security, Minister Sam George outlined a broader vision for the GDCL’s recovery and future operations. He emphasized the critical need for the center to evolve into a financially viable enterprise, moving away from reliance on government subventions. This transformation involves implementing stricter corporate governance protocols and improving operational efficiency to ensure that the hub remains a cornerstone of Ghana’s digital economy and a sustainable platform for innovation. The Minister stressed that the facility must be managed with a commercial mindset to ensure long-term sustainability. The Minister’s commitment highlights the government’s strategic focus on protecting the digital workforce as part of a larger national resilience plan. As the Accra Digital Centre undergoes repairs and restoration, the focus shifts toward building more robust systems to mitigate the impact of future climate-related events while maintaining the productivity and morale of the staff. This decision is viewed as a vital step in maintaining stability within the nation's burgeoning technology sector during a challenging recovery period.

Samsung to Unveil Galaxy Z Fold8 and Flip8 at July 2026 Unpacked Event in London
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Samsung to Unveil Galaxy Z Fold8 and Flip8 at July 2026 Unpacked Event in London

Samsung Electronics has officially set the stage for its next major hardware reveal, scheduled for July 22, 2026. Taking place in the heart of London under the evocative tagline "A New Shape Unfolds," the Galaxy Unpacked event is poised to be a milestone for the tech giant as it continues to push the boundaries of foldable technology and artificial intelligence. The choice of London as a host city underscores the global importance of this launch, which will be livestreamed across multiple digital platforms to reach millions of viewers worldwide. Industry watchers and tech enthusiasts anticipate the high-profile debut of the Galaxy Z Flip8 and the Galaxy Z Fold8. In a significant move to capture the ultra-premium market, reports indicate that Samsung will also introduce a Z Fold8 Ultra variant, designed to offer peak performance for power users. These flagship devices are expected to integrate advanced hardware with deep artificial intelligence functionality, reinforcing Samsung’s commitment to leading what it terms the "AI era." This focus on innovation aims to provide users with more intuitive and productive mobile experiences. For those looking to participate in the festivities from afar, the livestream is set to commence at 2:00 PM BST. Samsung is also encouraging fans to register for the event via their official website, providing an opportunity for registrants to enter a competition for various prizes. This engagement strategy highlights the company's efforts to build community momentum and reward its loyal customer base ahead of the commercial release. As the foldable market matures and competition from other global manufacturers intensifies, this Unpacked event serves as a critical moment for Samsung to defend its market leadership. By focusing on "A New Shape," the company hints at hardware design shifts that could redefine the foldable category, ensuring its latest generation of devices remains the industry benchmark for innovation in 2026 and beyond.

Boko Haram Leverages AI for Drone Deployment and Explosive Enhancements, Cambridge Study Finds
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Boko Haram Leverages AI for Drone Deployment and Explosive Enhancements, Cambridge Study Finds

A groundbreaking report from Cambridge University has revealed that the jihadist group Boko Haram is increasingly utilizing advanced artificial intelligence (AI) tools, such as ChatGPT and Claude, to streamline and enhance its terrorist operations. Contrary to previous assumptions that these groups primarily used digital tools for propaganda, former members of the organization have disclosed that AI has become a critical component of their tactical strategy. This shift marks a significant evolution in the technological capabilities of insurgent groups in West Africa and beyond, highlighting a new frontier in the global fight against terrorism. Insights provided by former group members shed light on the specific ways AI is being weaponized in the field. The report indicates that these tools are being used to assist in the deployment of drones, the refinement of improvised explosive devices (IEDs), and the strategic planning of complex raids. By leveraging the processing power and generative capabilities of AI, Boko Haram and its offshoots, such as the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), have been able to achieve greater operational efficiency. This transition from basic digital communication to sophisticated tactical planning underscores the agility of these groups in adapting to modern technology despite international efforts to curb their activities. The findings have sparked serious concern among security specialists and AI developers alike. Experts warn that the use of generative AI makes terrorist strategies more effective and poses a formidable challenge to the existing safeguards implemented by technology companies. While AI developers have built-in restrictions to prevent misuse, the report suggests these barriers are being bypassed or are insufficient to stop determined actors from exploiting large language models. This trend is likely indicative of a broader global phenomenon where various extremist organizations are integrating AI into their workflows, necessitating a more robust and proactive approach to monitoring and securing dual-use technologies.

Google Faces Swiss Antitrust Investigation Over Removal of Android Search Choice Feature
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Google Faces Swiss Antitrust Investigation Over Removal of Android Search Choice Feature

Switzerland’s Competition Commission (COMCO) has launched a preliminary investigation into Google regarding the removal of the 'Choice Screen' feature on Android devices. This feature, which enables users to select their preferred default search engine during the initial setup of their smartphones, has reportedly been deactivated for the Swiss market while remaining operational in other European countries. The regulator is concerned that by eliminating this choice, Google is effectively imposing its own search engine as the default, potentially stifling competition and disadvantaging Swiss consumers. The investigation highlights a growing disparity between digital regulations in Switzerland and the neighboring European Economic Area (EEA). While Google maintains the Choice Screen in the European Union to comply with regional antitrust mandates, its removal in Switzerland has raised red flags. According to data from Statcounter, Google currently dominates the Swiss search market with an approximately 82% share. COMCO emphasizes that default settings play a critical role in digital market competition, as they heavily influence user behavior and can create significant barriers for smaller search engine providers attempting to gain a foothold. The probe will specifically examine whether Google’s actions constitute a breach of the Swiss Cartel Act, which prohibits practices that unfairly restrict competition or abuse a dominant market position. By making its own services the default without offering an easy alternative during device setup, Google may be leveraging its Android platform to solidify its search monopoly. In response to the announcement, Google has acknowledged the investigation and expressed its intention to cooperate fully with Swiss authorities. This development marks another chapter in the global regulatory scrutiny facing big tech companies over their default software configurations and market dominance.

Minister Sam Nartey George Intervenes to Protect GDCL Jobs Following Flood-Induced Contract Suspensions
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Minister Sam Nartey George Intervenes to Protect GDCL Jobs Following Flood-Induced Contract Suspensions

The Minister for Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovations, Sam Nartey George, has officially assured employees of the Ghana Digital Centres Limited (GDCL) that their positions remain secure despite recent operational disruptions. This high-level intervention follows a controversial decision by the GDCL management to suspend employment contracts in the wake of the severe floods that struck on June 29, 2026. The floods caused significant structural and equipment damage to the Accra Digital Centre, a critical hub for the nation’s technology sector, leading to initial uncertainty regarding the facility's workforce stability. During a high-stakes meeting held on July 13, 2026, Minister George formally communicated the Ministry's decision to reverse the suspension of contracts. He emphasized that the government is committed to shielding workers from the economic impacts of natural disasters, noting that employment security is a priority during the recovery phase. By overturning the management's initial directive, the Minister sought to restore morale among the staff while the facility undergoes critical rehabilitation and cleanup efforts. Beyond immediate job security, the Minister outlined a strategic vision for the state-owned technology hub, highlighting the necessity for structural reforms. He noted that the GDCL must evolve into a more financially viable and self-sustaining enterprise to withstand future environmental or economic challenges. To achieve this, George pointed to the urgent need for significant improvements in corporate governance and operational efficiency, urging the leadership to transform the center into a robust institution that contributes meaningfully to Ghana's digital economy. As the Accra Digital Centre begins its reconstruction process, the Minister’s stance signals a broader government policy of protecting the digital workforce while demanding higher performance standards from state-run entities. The focus now shifts to a comprehensive assessment of the flood damage and the implementation of a long-term sustainability plan. By aligning job protection with corporate reform, the Ministry aims to ensure that the Ghana Digital Centres Limited remains a cornerstone for innovation and employment in the Ghanaian technology landscape.

Samsung to Host Galaxy Unpacked 2026 in London: Z Fold8 and Z Flip8 Expected to Headline 'AI Era' Event
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Samsung to Host Galaxy Unpacked 2026 in London: Z Fold8 and Z Flip8 Expected to Headline 'AI Era' Event

Samsung Electronics has officially set the stage for its next major technological showcase, announcing the Galaxy Unpacked event for July 22, 2026. Hosted in London under the evocative tagline 'A New Shape Unfolds,' the global event is poised to be a pivotal moment for the tech giant as it continues to push the boundaries of mobile design and artificial intelligence. The announcement signals Samsung's commitment to maintaining its leadership in the foldable smartphone market, with the event scheduled to be livestreamed globally to millions of tech enthusiasts and industry professionals. Industry analysts and consumers alike are anticipating the debut of several high-profile devices, most notably the next generation of foldables: the Galaxy Z Flip8 and the Galaxy Z Fold8. Adding to the excitement is the anticipated introduction of a premium Z Fold8 Ultra variant, which is expected to offer enhanced specifications for power users. Central to these new releases is the deeper integration of AI technology. Samsung has hinted that these devices will offer innovative features specifically designed for the AI era, potentially transforming how users interact with their mobile hardware through advanced productivity tools and intuitive user experiences. For those eager to witness the unveiling firsthand, the event will be broadcast live starting at 2 p.m. BST across various digital platforms. Samsung is also incentivizing early engagement by offering registration opportunities on its official website. Fans who sign up ahead of the event will not only stay informed with the latest updates but also enter a draw for a chance to win exclusive prizes. This strategy underscores Samsung's focus on building community momentum and securing consumer interest in a highly competitive global market. As the mobile industry increasingly shifts toward hardware that supports complex on-device AI processing, the London Unpacked event serves as a strategic milestone for Samsung. By choosing a major global hub like London, the company emphasizes the international appeal of its Galaxy ecosystem. The upcoming 'New Shape Unfolds' era will likely define the company's trajectory for the latter half of the decade, as it seeks to blend sophisticated hardware engineering with the rapidly evolving demands of artificial intelligence.

Boko Haram and ISWAP Leverage AI Tools for Tactical Operations, Cambridge University Study Finds
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Boko Haram and ISWAP Leverage AI Tools for Tactical Operations, Cambridge University Study Finds

A groundbreaking report from Cambridge University has uncovered a concerning shift in the operational strategies of the jihadist group Boko Haram, revealing their use of advanced Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools to facilitate acts of terror. While AI has previously been associated with the dissemination of extremist propaganda, new evidence suggests that groups like Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) are now integrating generative AI technologies, such as OpenAI’s ChatGPT and Anthropic’s Claude, directly into their tactical planning and execution. This evolution in warfare highlights the growing dual-use threat of consumer-grade technology in conflict zones across the Sahel and beyond. The findings, which draw on testimonies from former members of the insurgent groups, indicate that AI is being employed for a variety of high-stakes tasks. These include the sophisticated deployment of drones, the refinement of explosive device compositions, and the logistical planning of raids on both civilian and military targets. The report suggests that the accessibility of these AI models allows groups with limited technical resources to achieve a level of operational efficiency previously reserved for state actors. By utilizing these tools to solve complex engineering and logistical problems, Boko Haram has significantly enhanced its ability to conduct lethal operations. This trend poses a severe challenge to AI developers and international security agencies alike. Despite the implementation of "safety guardrails" by companies to prevent their models from generating harmful or illegal content, the report illustrates that determined actors can often bypass these restrictions. Security specialists warn that as these AI models become more capable, the barrier to entry for conducting sophisticated terrorist attacks continues to lower. The adaptation of AI by Boko Haram is seen as a bellwether for a broader phenomenon where various non-state armed groups are expected to harness similar technologies to optimize their combat strategies. As the digital and physical battlefields increasingly converge, the implications for regional security in West Africa are profound. The Cambridge University report underscores an urgent need for a collaborative approach between tech companies, governments, and intelligence agencies to monitor and mitigate the misuse of AI. Beyond just monitoring social media for radicalization, the focus must now shift toward securing the foundational AI models themselves. Without more robust safeguards and real-time monitoring of high-risk prompts, the same tools designed to boost global productivity may continue to be weaponized by extremist groups to devastating effect.

Switzerland’s Competition Commission Launches Probe into Google Over Android Search Engine Selection
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Switzerland’s Competition Commission Launches Probe into Google Over Android Search Engine Selection

Switzerland’s Competition Commission (COMCO) has launched a preliminary investigation into Google regarding the removal of the 'Choice Screen' feature on Android mobile devices. This feature, which traditionally allows users to select their preferred default search engine during the initial setup of a new device, has reportedly been withdrawn specifically for the Swiss market. The regulator is concerned that this move effectively imposes Google’s own search engine as the default, potentially stifling competition and disadvantaging Swiss consumers compared to their neighbors in the European Union. COMCO emphasized that default settings play a critical role in digital market competition, as many users tend to stick with pre-configured options on their devices. The investigation centers on why Google has maintained the 'Choice Screen' in other European countries while eliminating it in Switzerland. COMCO noted that the feature remains accessible to users within the European Economic Area (EEA), creating a disparity that leaves Swiss users with fewer digital choices. By removing the selection prompt, Google may be leveraging its dominant position to reinforce its existing market share. Currently, Google commands a massive 82% share of the search engine market in Switzerland, according to data from Statcounter. This dominance makes any shift in default configurations highly significant for smaller competitors attempting to gain a foothold in the region. The preliminary probe will assess whether Google’s actions constitute a breach of the Swiss Cartel Act, which regulates unfair competition and the abuse of dominant market positions. If the initial findings suggest a significant violation, the investigation could escalate into a more formal and intensive enforcement action. In response to the announcement, Google has acknowledged the investigation and expressed its intention to cooperate fully with the Swiss authorities. This development comes amid broader global scrutiny of big tech companies and their control over digital ecosystems. As the probe progresses, the focus will remain on whether Switzerland will successfully align its digital competition standards with those of the EEA or if Google will be required to restore the choice feature to avoid regulatory penalties. The outcome could set a significant precedent for how global tech giants manage regional differences in competition law and consumer choice. For now, Swiss regulators continue to monitor the impact of default software configurations on the health of the local digital economy, ensuring that market leaders do not unfairly block access to competing services.

Cybersecurity Expert Theodora Teikor Tetteh Calls for Zero Trust Framework to Safeguard Critical Infrastructure
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Cybersecurity Expert Theodora Teikor Tetteh Calls for Zero Trust Framework to Safeguard Critical Infrastructure

Cybersecurity experts are sounding the alarm on the increasing vulnerability of global critical infrastructure to sophisticated cyberattacks. Recent reports, including warnings from U.S. cybersecurity agencies regarding Iranian-affiliated actors exploiting programmable logic controllers (PLCs) within utilities, highlight a dangerous escalation in cyber conflict. These incidents, coupled with historical precedents such as the Russian Sandworm attacks on the Ukrainian power grid, demonstrate that traditional perimeter defenses like firewalls are no longer adequate to protect the essential services upon which the public relies. The evolving nature of these threats indicates that physical infrastructure is now a primary target in digital warfare. In an analysis by Theodora Teikor Tetteh, the focus shifts toward the necessity of adopting a Zero Trust Architecture (ZTA) to mitigate these systemic risks. Unlike traditional security models that trust users once they are within a network, ZTA operates on the fundamental principle of 'never trust, always verify.' This approach requires that every access request, regardless of its origin, be scrutinized based on identity, location, and context. Tetteh emphasizes that as critical infrastructure increasingly bridges the gap between Information Technology (IT) and Operational Technology (OT), security strategies must evolve to address the unique requirements of OT systems, ensuring robust segmentation and rigorous logging to prevent unauthorized control of physical machinery. The transition to cloud-native defenses presents both opportunities and significant challenges, particularly regarding data sovereignty and national security. While cloud adoption can offer enhanced security features and real-time threat intelligence, Tetteh argues that simply migrating to the cloud does not guarantee safety. A deliberate security architecture is required, characterized by granular access control and continuous monitoring to prevent lateral movement by threat actors. This involves a risk-based approach that balances the benefits of cloud scalability with the need for strict sovereign control over sensitive utility data. Ultimately, the protection of critical infrastructure requires a fundamental shift in mindset from reactive to proactive defense. As cyber threats become more integrated into national and international conflicts, the implementation of a comprehensive, context-aware security framework is not just a technical requirement but a matter of national security. Stakeholders and utility operators must collaborate to ensure that the digital foundations of society are resilient against the ever-evolving tactics of state-sponsored and independent cyber adversaries, moving beyond simple firewalls to more sophisticated, identity-based defense systems.