Microsoft is expanding its Copilot AI to serve both gamers and creatives. Gaming Copilot, now in Beta for Xbox Insiders on Windows PC, offers real-time tips, level assistance, and a new Voice Mode for interactive help. Meanwhile, Copilot 3D, available globally, turns flat images into ready-to-use 3D models in seconds, ideal for printing, game design, or art. These updates highlight Microsoft’s push to make AI a practical companion across entertainment and productivity. While regional restrictions apply for Gaming Copilot, Copilot 3D is free for all Microsoft account holders, underscoring the company’s vision for AI everywhere.

Samsung has launched the Odyssey OLED G6, the world’s first 500Hz OLED gaming monitor, alongside two new Odyssey G7 curved displays in 37" and 40" formats. The 27" G6 boasts QD-OLED tech, a blistering 0.03ms response time, and vivid, true-to-life visuals with Pantone validation. The new G7 models offer expansive, immersive gameplay—featuring up to 4K and WUHD resolutions, ultra-fast refresh rates, and ergonomic designs. With features like Glare Free tech, burn-in protection, CoreSync lighting, and multitasking tools, Samsung’s latest monitors target competitive gamers and immersive players alike, setting a new benchmark in speed, clarity, and design.

Spotify and Kobalt, the world’s largest independent music publisher, have signed a multiyear U.S. licensing agreement aimed at improving flexibility, efficiency, and protections for songwriters. The deal introduces a progressive licensing framework designed to support new formats and innovations while ensuring creators are more directly rewarded for their work. Spotify’s Alex Norström called it a model for growth and creativity, while Kobalt CEO Laurent Hubert emphasised the importance of fair compensation and adapting to how music is used in the digital era. This collaboration marks a significant step toward reshaping the economics of streaming for music creators.

At Highstone Global University’s 8th convocation in Lagos, VC Theophilus Aku Ugah urged African governments to invest in digital infrastructure, local EdTech ecosystems, and inclusive innovation policies to secure the continent’s place in the global economy. Citing rapid growth in mobile connectivity, AI, and online learning, he called digital equity a necessity. With over 650 million Africans owning mobile phones and EdTech platforms like uLesson reaching millions, the opportunity is ripe. Ugah challenged graduates to drive research, policy reform, and innovation hubs, warning that without future-focused strategies, Africa risks being left behind in the digital era.

Fintech investment in the Americas fell from $35.7B in H2’24 to $26.7B in H1’25, as deal volume dipped slightly to 1,092. The US dominated with $20.9B across 889 deals, including major rounds for Next Insurance ($2.6B) and Ninja Trader ($1.5B). Canada’s record-breaking $7.5B in late 2024 cooled to $1.6B, while Brazil saw funding drop to $339M. Investors are becoming highly selective, focusing on profitable, market-strong companies rather than speculative bets. Regional uncertainty—such as upcoming elections in Latin America—has added to caution, signalling a more disciplined, fundamentals-driven investment climate in the fintech sector.

Nedbank Group has acquired Durban-based fintech iKhokha for $90 million (approximately R1.65 billion) in an all-cash deal, advancing its SME-focused digital banking strategy. Founded in 2012, iKhokha processes over R20 billion annually in digital payments and has provided more than R3 billion in SME working capital. The acquisition, pending regulatory approval, will see iKhokha operate as a wholly owned subsidiary while retaining its brand and leadership. By combining iKhokha’s innovative payment and business tools with Nedbank’s banking expertise, the deal aims to expand SME services in South Africa and potentially into other African markets, while bolstering Nedbank’s competitive fintech positioning.

Africa’s AI sector, valued at $4.51 billion in 2025, is set to quadruple to $16.53 billion within five years, driven by surging startup activity and investor confidence. Funding for African tech startups jumped 78% in H1 2025, with AI ventures benefiting from lower infrastructure costs thanks to open-source models like DeepSeek. Egypt, bolstered by a national AI strategy, leads the charge with standout deals from Infinilink, Qme, and Widebot AI. Notably, Meta acquired Egypt’s PlayAI, underscoring global interest. Eight early-stage AI companies across Africa have already raised over $40M this year, with the challenge ahead being equitable growth across the continent.

AI search startup Perplexity has made a surprise $34.5 billion all-cash bid for Google’s Chrome browser, aiming to tap its 3 billion+ users and gain an edge in the AI-driven search race. The offer comes amid U.S. antitrust pressure on Google, with regulators seeking a Chrome divestiture. Backed by investors like Nvidia and SoftBank, Perplexity pledges to keep Chrome’s code open source, invest $3 billion in development, and maintain Google as the default search engine. While analysts doubt Google will sell, the bid underscores how browsers have become strategic gateways in the AI era—potentially reshaping the search market if approved.

Gauteng’s tourism sector delivered record-breaking results in 2024/25, generating over R41 billion in foreign revenue and R19 million for SMMEs, while welcoming 3.8 million international visitors—almost half of South Africa’s total arrivals. The rebound was fueled by improved air connectivity, targeted marketing, and hosting international events. Domestic tourism contributed R430 billion nationally, with Gauteng generating R21 billion from local trips. The province plans to expand its offerings through music, sports, and wellness tourism, leveraging cultural icons and infrastructure upgrades. Gauteng is positioning itself as Africa’s most connected tourism hub while preparing to host global events like the G20 Summit.

The SADC Tourism Alliance has established a new steering committee to tackle barriers to regional tourism across 16 member states. With intra-regional travel currently under 25% of arrivals, the committee will focus on improving access, strengthening the region’s tourism reputation, and ensuring institutional sustainability over the next three years. Members include leaders from South Africa, Madagascar, Malawi, Namibia, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique, emphasising cross-border collaboration. Chair Tshifhiwa Tshivhengwa highlighted that tourists don’t recognise borders, and by working together, the alliance aims to unlock investment, create jobs, and protect Southern Africa’s natural heritage at a scale no single nation could achieve alone.

Lagos-based food delivery startup Chowdeck has raised $9 million in a Series A round led by Novastar Ventures to expand its quick commerce strategy across Nigeria and Ghana. Serving 1.5 million customers in 11 cities with a fleet of 20,000 riders, Chowdeck plans to open 40 dark stores by year-end and scale to 500 by 2026. Its recent acquisition of Mira, a point-of-sale platform, will streamline inventory and order management, boosting efficiency. Unlike many delivery startups, Chowdeck remains profitable, focusing on local meals and disciplined unit economics to compete effectively while managing the operational challenges of rapid expansion.

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