TodayPrice

Tag: Media

  • As data prices soar, Nigerians are looking for creative ways to maximise their data usage and reduce expenses.

    In today’s digital era, internet access has become indispensable for work, education, and social interactions.

    However, the recent surge in data tariffs is pushing many Nigerians to the brink, making connectivity an expensive necessity rather than an accessible resource.

    As data prices soar, Nigerians are looking for creative ways to maximize their data usage and reduce expenses.

    Here are ten practical hacks to help users spend less while staying connected

    10 ways to reduce data usage and cut costs
    Turn off background data usage

    Apps like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok consume data even when not in use. Restrict background data in phone settings to save data.

    Use data-saving browsers

    Browsers like Opera Mini and Google Chrome’s Lite mode compress web pages, helping users save up to 90% of their data.

    Download instead of streaming

    Downloading videos, music, and movies while on WiFi reduces excessive data consumption compared to streaming in real-time.

    Utilise offline features on apps

    Apps like Google Maps, Netflix, and Spotify offer offline features that allow users to save content and access it later without using data.

    Set data usage limits

    Android and iOS devices have built-in features to monitor and cap data consumption, preventing excessive usage.

    Disable auto-updates for apps

    Automatic updates can silently consume data. Adjust settings to update apps only when connected to WiFi.

    Use WiFi

    Whenever PossibleConnecting to public or home WiFi networks can significantly reduce reliance on mobile data.

    Reduce video quality on streaming Apps

    Lowering video resolution on platforms like YouTube and Netflix can save a substantial amount of data.

    Uninstall Data-Hungry Apps

    Some apps consume large amounts of data. Consider switching to lighter versions like Facebook Lite or YouTube Go.

    Manage Media Downloads in Messaging Apps

    Disabling auto-download for media files in WhatsApp and Telegram can prevent unnecessary data consumption.

  • Disney Cuts Deep: 200 Jobs Axed Amid Media Shift

    Disney Cuts Deep: 200 Jobs Axed Amid Media Shift

    The Walt Disney Company is set to eliminate approximately 200 positions, impacting nearly 6% of the combined workforce within its ABC News Group and Disney Entertainment Networks divisions, a move signaling the relentless pressures reshaping the media landscape. This restructuring, first reported by The Wall Street Journal, underscores the company’s ongoing efforts to adapt to the seismic shifts in consumer viewing habits and the diminishing influence of traditional cable television.

    The reported restructuring will see significant changes across several key divisions. Notably, ABC’s venerable news magazine programs, “20/20” and “Nightline,” are slated to merge into a single unit. Additionally, the company plans to dissolve the team behind FiveThirtyEight, the respected political and data analysis website. “Good Morning America” production staff are also expected to experience reductions. Within Disney Entertainment Networks, which oversees cable channels like FX, programming and scheduling operations are anticipated to be streamlined.

    “Several key divisions to be affected by this restructuring are: ABC’s long-running news magazine programs, 20/20 and Nightline, are set to merge into a single unit, while the company is also eliminating the team behind FiveThirtyEight, the political and data analysis website,” as stated in the initial WSJ report.

    These layoffs come at a challenging time for Disney. Like many in the entertainment sector, the company is grappling with the steady decline of cable television viewership, driven by the rise of streaming services and cord-cutting. Disney’s flagship streaming platform, Disney+, has also faced headwinds, experiencing subscriber declines in recent quarters, even as competitors like Netflix continue to expand. According to reports the company experienced a 1.3 million subscriber drop for Disney+ in the final quarter of 2023 following a price increase. While Disney+ has managed to reduce streaming business losses, the company has also acknowledged that it anticipates a “modest decline” in subscriptions for the second quarter.

    Read Also: Meta Platforms Announces New Round of Layoffs in Africa, Europe, and Asia

    Despite these challenges, Disney’s recent earnings report exceeded Wall Street expectations, bolstered by cost-cutting measures and strong performances in its theme park and experiences segment. However, the company’s stock has declined approximately 4% over the past year, reflecting investor concerns about its ability to navigate the industry’s turbulent waters.

    These layoffs are not just about corporate restructuring; they represent real people facing job losses and uncertainty. The implications extend beyond Disney, reflecting a broader trend of media companies rethinking their business models in the face of technological disruption and changing consumer preferences. The closure of FiveThirtyEight, for example, signals a shift in how political and data analysis is consumed, potentially impacting public discourse and understanding of current events.

    This restructuring is part of a broader strategy to reduce expenses and streamline operations, as Disney adapts to a rapidly evolving media industry. It’s a stark reminder that even industry giants are not immune to the profound changes reshaping the way we consume news and entertainment. As we navigate this evolving media landscape, it’s crucial to understand the implications for both the industry and the individuals who work within it.

  • MultiChoice Faces Legal Storm as FCCPC Escalates Price Hike Dispute

    MultiChoice Faces Legal Storm as FCCPC Escalates Price Hike Dispute

    The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has escalated its confrontation with MultiChoice Nigeria, initiating formal legal proceedings against the pay-TV giant and its Chief Executive Officer, John Ugbe. This move comes in response to MultiChoice’s defiance of regulatory orders, specifically its implementation of a controversial price increase despite an ongoing FCCPC inquiry.

    The FCCPC, charged with safeguarding consumer interests and ensuring fair market practices, alleges that MultiChoice has deliberately flouted regulatory directives and obstructed its investigation. In a statement released on the Commission’s X account, Ondaje Ijagwu, Director of Corporate Affairs, confirmed the legal action, stating, “The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has formally instituted legal proceedings against MultiChoice Nigeria Limited and its Chief Executive Officer, John Ugbe, for violating regulatory directives, obstructing an ongoing inquiry and engaging in conduct deemed violations of the provisions of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) 2018.”

    The heart of the dispute lies in MultiChoice’s announcement of a planned price adjustment across its DStv and GOtv packages, scheduled for March 1, 2025. This adjustment would see significant increases, with the DStv Compact package rising by 25% and the Premium plan by 20%, among other hikes. Such increases, particularly in a market where pay-TV services are considered essential by many, have naturally sparked widespread concern.

    In response to the planned increases, the FCCPC summoned MultiChoice, demanding explanations and issuing a directive to halt the implementation. The Commission specifically voiced concerns about the frequency of price hikes, potential abuse of market dominance, and anti-competitive practices within the pay-TV sector. Despite this directive, MultiChoice proceeded with the price increase on March 1, 2025, triggering the FCCPC’s legal action.

    The charges filed at the Federal High Court, Lagos Judicial Division, include obstruction of an inquiry, impeding an ongoing investigation, and providing misleading information, all in violation of the FCCPA 2018. The FCCPC argues that MultiChoice’s actions represent a deliberate attempt to undermine regulatory authority and deny Nigerian consumers their rightful protection under the law.

    The implications of this legal battle extend beyond MultiChoice. The pay-TV market in Nigeria is significant, and the outcome of this case could set a precedent for how regulatory bodies address market dominance and consumer protection in the digital age. As reported by OkayNG, “MultiChoice had informed its customers about a planned price increase across its DStv and GOtv packages, set to take effect on March 1, 2025.” This information highlights the direct impact on everyday Nigerians.

    Read Also: House of Reps Directs MultiChoice to Suspend Subscription Price Increase Amid Economic Hardship

    Furthermore, the FCCPC has indicated that it is considering additional enforcement measures, including potential sanctions and regulatory interventions, to ensure compliance. This signals a strong commitment to safeguarding consumer rights and ensuring fair market practices.

    The FCCPC’s stance reflects a broader trend of regulatory bodies taking a more assertive role in protecting consumers. In a country where access to information and entertainment is increasingly reliant on digital platforms, ensuring fair pricing and transparent practices is paramount. The upcoming legal proceedings will be closely watched by consumers, industry stakeholders, and regulatory bodies alike, as they could reshape the landscape of the Nigerian pay-TV market.

    I understand the frustration this evokes. Price increases, especially in a challenging economic climate, directly impact household budgets. “Maintaining the current pricing was essential to prevent any potential consumer harm during this period,” the FCCPC had emphasized, a sentiment I believe resonates with many Nigerians.