United News of Bangladesh

The Ministry of Finance has warned all to stay alert against a smear campaign on social media by a vested quarter regarding the ongoing bank merger process. In a media release issued on Monday, the ministry urged investors not to pay heed to any misinformation about the merger of Islamic banks. “A vested group has recently been spreading rumours on social media, claiming that investors will be harmed due to the merger of five Islamic banks. The matter has come to the attention of the government,” the release says. The government has not taken any decision that could hurt the interests of investors, says the statement, adding, “All possible measures are being taken to safeguard investors’ interests while examining the merger process.” Bank merger: BSEC urges central bank to protect interests of investors Terming the claim ‘completely baseless and false’, the ministry called upon all to remain cautious about such misleading information circulating online. On October 9, the Council of Advisers gave its policy approval to merge five Islamic banks — First Security Islami Bank, Social Islami Bank, Global Islami Bank, Union Bank, and EXIM Bank — into a single Shariah-based institution. At a subsequent press briefing, Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam said that no employees would lose their jobs, and the deposits of customers would remain fully protected under the merger plan. The new bank will initially operate under state ownership, managed by the Finance Division, and will later be transferred to private ownership at an appropriate time.

The Apple iPhone 17 series is generating massive buzz ahead of its expected early September 2025 launch. Packed with exciting upgrades like a thinner design, advanced cameras, and next-gen chips, Apple fans are eager to see how this flagship lineup will redefine innovation legacy once again.  Apple iPhone 17 Series Rumored and Leaked New Features . A Major Redesign One of the most anticipated updates in the Apple iPhone 17 series is the introduction of the iPhone 17 Air. Apple is reportedly dropping the underwhelming "Plus" variant in favour of a sleeker, thinner, and more premium device that redefines design expectations for iPhones.  According to notable analysts such as Mark Gurman and Ming-Chi Kuo, the iPhone 17 Air will be Apple’s thinnest iPhone ever, with a remarkable thickness of between 5.5mm and 6mm. To put that in perspective, the iPhone 16 Pro has an 8.25mm body, making the Air a significant leap in engineering and design. This model is expected to sit in a perfect spot—positioned between the standard iPhone 17 and the Pro models, both in terms of size and price. It will likely feature a 6.6-inch LTPO OLED display, giving it a comfortable middle ground compared to the 6.3-inch iPhone 17 and the 6.9-inch Pro Max.  Read more: Vivo X200 FE Review: The Compact Champion Featuring Zeiss Cameras and a Massive Battery What truly sets the Air apart is its rumoured centred, horizontal camera bump, a departure from the vertical stack seen on current non-Pro models. It adds a futuristic look while accommodating the internal adjustments needed for such a thin chassis. In terms of aesthetics, the Apple iPhone 17 Air could come in a set of refined and minimalist colours, including silver, black, gold, and light blue—mirroring Apple’s Air lineup across other product categories like MacBooks and iPads. Camera Upgrades  Apple appears poised to elevate camera performance across all iPhone 17 models. The front-facing selfie camera on every model is expected to get a huge upgrade, from 12 MP to 24 MP, providing sharper images, better video call quality, and more detail in selfies. On the back, things get even more exciting. The standard iPhone 17 is expected to continue with a dual-lens setup, offering a wide and ultra-wide combination. The iPhone 17 Air, however, will go with a single 48 MP wide camera, which marks a notable upgrade for a non-Pro model and aligns with Apple’s strategy to make high-quality photography more accessible.  Read more: Tecno Spark 40 Pro Review: Budget Brilliance or Just Another Buzz? On the Pro and Pro Max, Apple is reportedly going all-in with three 48 MP sensors: wide, ultra-wide, and telephoto. This would be the first time an Apple iPhone features this level of parity across all three lenses, and the leap from a 12MP telephoto lens to a 48MP one is especially significant. Additionally, the introduction of a mechanical aperture system on Pro models may allow photographers to manually adjust depth of field, mimicking DSLR-style photography. Another standout feature in the pipeline is dual-video recording, which lets users capture footage simultaneously from both the front and rear cameras. Ideal for content creators and vloggers, this feature brings professional-level storytelling tools into the hands of everyday users. A19 Chips and More RAM  Apple is expected to standardise high performance across the entire iPhone 17 range with its next-gen A19 chip, with the Pro and Pro Max getting the A19 Pro variant. These chips are said to be based on TSMC’s 3NP architecture, offering increased speed, reduced power consumption, and enhanced AI capabilities.  To handle more resource-intensive apps and Apple’s latest AI features, all Apple iPhone 17 models will reportedly come equipped with 12GB of RAM. The increase will allow smoother multitasking, faster app launches, and better performance in high-demand tasks like gaming, video editing, and machine learning. Read more: Best Smartphones Releasing in July 2025 ProMotion for All Models One of the most exciting leaks is that Apple will finally bring ProMotion displays to every model in the iPhone 17 lineup. Previously exclusive to the Pro models, this 120 Hz adaptive refresh rate technology enables ultra-smooth scrolling, fluid animations, and better responsiveness. Apple’s move to LTPO OLED panels across the board makes this possible, as these panels are more energy-efficient and capable of variable refresh rates from 1Hz to 120Hz. While always-on display functionality might still remain a Pro-only perk, standard and Air users will still enjoy the benefits of a faster, more visually engaging interface. Design  Design is getting a refresh as well. The Pro and Pro Max models are rumoured to abandon their titanium frames for a more durable and lighter half-glass, half-aluminium body. This not only improves drop protection but also maintains MagSafe compatibility. The most striking change is the horizontal camera bar, which now spans the width of the device—similar to the Pixel design language.  Colour-wise, Apple is stepping out of its comfort zone. Along with the usual silver, black, and dark blue, a bold orange variant may join the lineup. A liquid glass-inspired white option could also debut, featuring a finish that subtly changes colour based on lighting conditions. These aesthetic choices indicate Apple’s willingness to experiment with more expressive designs. Read more: vivo T4 Ultra Review: A Game-Changing Mid-range Flagship Improved Audio and Display Protection The audio experience is rumoured to get an upgrade too. Longer earpiece cutouts and possibly enhanced speaker tuning should improve call clarity and media playback. Coupled with new software optimisations in AirPods, Apple is aiming to deliver a superior audio ecosystem. Display durability is also a key area of improvement. Apple might debut scratch-resistant, antireflective glass on the Pro models—significantly tougher than the current Ceramic Shield. This would not only enhance durability but also reduce glare, making screen content easier to view in bright environments. Vapor Chamber Cooling and Battery Upgrades To keep everything running smoothly, especially under high-performance loads, vapour chamber cooling systems could be introduced in the Apple iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max. These systems efficiently dissipate heat, preventing thermal throttling during demanding tasks like gaming or extended video recording.  Battery life is getting better, too. The iPhone 17 Pro Max may house the largest battery ever in an iPhone, while the Pro variant will also benefit from increased capacity due to its slightly thicker frame, rumoured to be 8.725 mm. Charging speeds will reportedly stay at 35W wired and 25W wireless, but improvements in thermal management and battery chemistry could extend real-world usage time considerably. Read more: Infinix GT 30 Pro Review: Best Budget Gaming Phone with Flagship Features in 2025 In a Nutshell The iPhone 17 series is shaping up to be Apple’s most exciting release in years. With a completely new Air model, universal ProMotion displays, camera and performance upgrades, and a striking design refresh, Apple is signalling a bold step forward. Whether you are a casual user or a power-hungry pro, the Apple iPhone 17 lineup will likely offer something worth waiting for.

After the White House, the US Department of State has also trashed reports that claimed the United States was involved in former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's resignation. "That’s laughable," Principal Deputy Spokesperson Vedant Patel told reporters at a regular briefing in Washington on August 13. He said any implication that the United States was involved in Sheikh Hasina’s resignation is absolutely false. "We have seen a lot of disinformation in recent weeks," Patel said. Read more: What Dhaka wants from Delhi: Ending border killings, conclusion of Teesta deal, supply of essential commodities He said they remain incredibly committed to strengthening information integrity across the digital ecosystem, especially with their partners in South Asia. Earlier, the White House ruled out any involvement of the United States behind the fall of the Sheikh Hasina-led government, stressing that it is false. "So, we have had no involvement at all. Any — any reports or rumours that the United States government was involved in these — in these events is simply, simply false. That is not true," Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre told reporters at a press briefing on August 12. She said this is a choice for and by the Bangladeshi people.   "We believe that the Bangladeshi people should determine the future of the Bangladeshi government, and that’s where we stand," said the White House Press Secretary. "Any allegations, certainly, we will continue to say, and I have said here, is simply not true," she added. A journalist mentioned that former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has reported to allies that she was thrown out — or forced to be out of power because the U.S. wanted to have one of the islands given to them - the United States of America.   Read more: Complaint lodged at International Crimes Tribunal against Hasina, top officials for crimes against humanity and genocide And since — because they didn’t agree to it, she was forced to resign, the questioner mentioned. The press secretary said they are going to continue to monitor the situation. 

The government of Bangladesh is considering an effective framework to hold those spreading disinformation and rumours accountable. "A framework on how to hold those who spread disinformation and rumors accountable is under consideration," State Minister for Information and Broadcasting, Mohammad A Arafat, said on Saturday (January 20, 2024). Read: Referring to victims’ pleas, Sajeeb Wazed says BNP’s ‘disinformation campaign’ aimed at passing the blame on Awami League In preventing propaganda, he said, the government is ensuring that freedom of expression and media is not hindered. The information state minister made the announcement on X (formerly known as Twitter). Read more: US expresses concern over ‘deep fakes’ in Bangladesh election-related disinformation

Education Minister Dr Dipu Moni on Sunday said stern action will be taken is anyone is found involved in spreading rumours over SSC question papers. “There is no scope of question leak in the this year’s SSC and equivalent exams, but rumours might spread and those will face tough punishment who will be found involved  in spreading rumours,” she said while talking to reporters after visiting Badda High School center in the capital on the first of the SSC and equivalent examinations.    Also Read: No chance of SSC question papers leaking: Dipu Moni Deputy Education Minister Mohibul Hasan Chowdhury Naoufel , Secretary to the Department of Secondary and Higher Education (DSHE) Soleman Khan, Directorate General of DSHE Nehal Ahmed and Dhaka Education Board Chairman Prof. Tapan Kumar, among others, were also present there. Social media platforms are being monitored round the clock to prevent spread of rumours, said Dipu Moni adding that action are being taken instantly if any attempt is made to spread rumours. Replying to a question over the next year’s SSC exam schedule, she said efforts are there to hold the next year’s exams ahead but it will be done taking opinion from teachers across the country. The Secondary School Certificate (SSC) and equivalent exams for 2023 began on Sunday across Bangladesh. Also Read: Single admission test for universities from next year: Dipu Moni SSC exams began at 10 am with Bangla 1st Paper. According to the Ministry of Education, a total of 20,72,163 candidates are sitting for this year’s SSC and equivalent exams.  

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina today said rumours are being spread that there is no money in the banks. “We are not facing problems by the grace of Allah. There is money in every bank,” she said. She was addressing the 30th National Council of BCL, the student wing of Bangladesh Awami League, at the historic Suhrawardy Udyan in Dhaka. The PM said a quarter with vested interest wants to mislead people. “We have created ‘Digital Bangladesh’, but they are using it against us,” she said. Sheikh Hasina harshly criticised a section of intellectuals and dignitaries who have “joined hands with BNP to oust the government.” Read more: ‘Just mention BNP-Jamaat’s misdeeds under their propaganda posts on social media’ “Many knowledgeable persons and dignitaries have joined hands with BNP – giving us theories and lectures on democracy… Many say that they are not intellectuals, rather intellectually disabled,” she said. She said those intellectuals have accepting a convict – sentenced on charges of August 21 grenade attack, money laundering and arms smuggling – as their leader. “My question is, why this attempt to snatch the rights of people by joining hands with such criminals?” – she asked. “Awami League believes in democracy and the power of people. So, AL handed over power in a peaceful manner,” she said, criticizing Khaleda Zia for holding an election with “no voters” on February 15, 1996. Read more: Women entrepreneurs can avail special opportunities in economic zones: PM Khaleda Zia was forced to step down in face of public movement after that lopsided election, she said, adding that BNP leaders should not forget that. Sheikh Hasina, also AL president, urged students including BCL activists to groom themselves as worthy citizens of Bangladesh so that they can contribute to the continuation of development. She asked the BCL leaders and activists to create public opinion so that killers and anti-liberation forces including razakar and Al-Badr cannot ever come to power in the country. The PM asked meritorious students among the BCL to pursue their studies properly, including technical education, and sit for PSC examination as an efficient administration is needed to govern the country. Read More: Dhaka, Delhi agree on security, border management to strengthen cooperation “Yes, we need politics. But at the same time, we need efficient administration and technical education,” she said. Sheikh Hasina extended her thanks to BCL for standing by the people during every national crisis, particularly throughout the Covid-19 pandemic and the recent flood in Sylhet region.

After a Facebook post by Dhallywood star Pori Moni – tagging her husband Sariful Razz, popular actress Bidya Sinha Mim and film director Raihan Rafi – went viral and created uproar in Bangladeshi media, Mim has provided a statement. In a Facebook post from her verified profile, Mim asked all “not to be misled by baseless rumours”. In her post made earlier, Pori Moni asked Mim to be “satisfied with her own husband.” Read more: After string of blockbusters, Mim envisions another ‘sold out’ experience with ‘Damal’ Mim, in her post, asked fans and journalists not to be misguided by “false accusations”. “I am constantly trying to win the hearts of all, including fans and well-wishers, through my accomplishments and values instilled in me by my father and honesty taught by my mother. I have never been associated with anything in my professional life that may make my path questionable,” she wrote. Mim also wrote she is having the best time of her life after two of her films “Poran” and “Damal” have been hugely successful. Read more: Mim, Razz want to watch ‘Poran’ with elderly person denied entry to Cineplex for ‘lungi’ “At this particular time, a party – jealous of my success – is trying to hinder my journey by spreading rumours about me,” the actress wrote. “I have no words to criticise those who are spreading these baseless accusations against me without any evidence.” She also warned of legal action against those who are circulating these rumours against her. Read More: Pori to Mim: 'Your intimacy with Razz troubles me' Mim and Razz have earned nationwide accolades from movie fans for their performances in the films “Poran” and “Damal”.

Police on Friday arrested the prime accused and another person for spreading rumours that a teacher beat some students for not “wearing hijab” at a school in Naogaon. The rumour spread on social media led to a mob vandalising school property. Also read: Amodini Pal punished students for not wearing uniform, not over hijab: Probe report The arrestees have been identified as QM Sayeed Tito, 60, a resident of Upazila Sadar and Kazi Samshuzzoha Milon, 45, of Kushar Center area. The arrestees are among about 20-28 people against whom the teacher Amodini Pal filed a case for falsely implicating her in the incident. Amodini Pal, assistant headmistress of Daul Barbakpur High School in Naogaon’s Mohadevpur filed a case on April 9 against these people, including including the headmaster of the school Dharani Kant Barman, president of the school managing committee Mahmudul Hasan Sumon and Salauddin Ahmed, a resident of Gaherpur village in Porsha upazila. Later, police conducted a special drive and arrested the two from Librarypatti and Kushar Center areas of the upazila around 3:30 am on Friday, siad Azam Uddin Mahmud, officer-in-Charge (OC) of Mahadevpur Police Station. "We are trying to nab the other accused", he added. “On 7 April, the school was attacked following the rumour. Many people from the villages around the school attacked and vandalised property of the school”. Earlier, on 6 April, Amodini Pal, assistant headmistress of the school allegedly beat 16-18 female students in the 8th, 9th and 10th grades of the school “for not wearing school uniform”. Also read: Hijab row: Naogaon school headteacher files GD accusing 150 anonymous people Later, the incident was twisted into a “hijab” row and went viral on social media. On Saturday, a show-cause notice was served to the accused teacher ordered by the Upazila Secondary Education Officer. Upazila administration formed a three-member committee to investigate the incident. The committee submitted its report to Mahadevpur Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Mizanur Rahman around 8pm on Monday. The report said, ‘Two teachers beat some students of the school for not wearing school uniform. Among them, there were Hindu female students and male students too'. However, the investigation report did not find anything that the students were beaten for wearing ‘hijab’.