Ernst Wittmann
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Articles by Ernst Wittmann
Strukturierung eines Immobilienportfolios bei Stiftungen – ein Best-Practice-Beispiel der Wilhelm Sander-Stiftung
Die Immobilienbestände von Stiftungen sind vielerorts über Jahrzehnte oder sogar über Jahrhunderte hinweg organisch gewachsen. Sie dienten traditionell der sicheren Vermögensanlage (realer Substanzerhalt), der langfristigen Ertragssicherung oder der unmittelbaren Zweckverwirklichung, beispielsweise der Bereitstellung von Wohnraum oder Forschungsflächen.
How smartphones are remaking retail Original
Ernst Wittmann|Published 6 minutes ago Discover how smartphones are driving the evolution of retail in South Africa, with e-commerce surpassing R130 billion in 2025. Explore the innovations in AI, social commerce, and augmented reality that are transforming the shopping experience. Image: Supplied. Online commerce is no longer new to the South African market, withresearchfrom World Wide Worx indicating that ecommerce surpassed R130 billion in 2025 and captured close to 10% of totalretailsales.
How smartphones are remaking retail
Online commerce is no longer new to the South African market, with research from World Wide Worx indicating that ecommerce surpassed R130 billion in 2025 and captured close to 10% of total retail sales. Smartphone users are driving a significant portion of that growth, with around 55% of users reporting that they use their phones to shop online.
Wearables and IoT grow, but phones remain the hub of connectivity
By Ernst Wittmann, Regional Manager for Southern and East Africa, Global Operator Account Manager for Africa, TCL Johannesburg, 18 Feb 2026 Ernst Wittmann, Regional Manager for Southern & East Africa and Global Operator Account Manager for Africa, TCL Mobile. Rapid innovations in artificial intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT) and wearables have raised questions about the role of the smartphone in the future technology ecosystem.
Rising memory costs threaten smartphone affordability in South Africa
The global smartphone industry is entering a challenging period, with analysts such as IDC revising their growth projections for 2026 downwards. The most significant reason for the downgrade lies in the probability that smartphone prices are expected to soar next year, a reality which can be blamed on a shortage of memory components. The scarce supply of memory can be blamed on massive demand for memory for data centres due to the artificial intelligence (AI) boom.
AI and 5G shape the future of Africa’s mobile-first startup ecosystem
Africa is a hotbed of mobile innovation and entrepreneurship, blazing trails in applications as diverse as mobile money (M-Pesa), e-commerce (Jumia and Takealot), smartphone-powered retail (Yoco and others), business to business platforms (like Twiga Foods, which connects small-scale farmers with urban vendors) and more besides.
Stiftungen und Start-ups: Motor der Medizinforschung
Inhaltsverzeichnis Toggle Private Stiftungen tragen entscheidend dazu bei, dass medizinische Forschung in Deutschland voranschreiten kann – oft dort, wo staatliche oder industrielle Förderlogik an ihre Grenzen stößt. Besonders in Bayern zeigt sich, wie stark das Zusammenspiel von Stiftungen, Universitäten und neuen Initiativen das Innovationsklima prägt. Jüngste politische Beschlüsse setzen zusätzliche Impulse und eröffnen neue Wege für medizinische Durchbrüche und Start-up-Finanzierungen.
Satellite-to-device: Exciting advances, but still years from everyday use
The words ‘satellite phone’ used to bring to mind the image of a mountain climber, a scientist in an Arctic research station, or a sailor using a brick-sized handset to communicate from the edges of the world where there are no mobile or fixed-line networks. But today, we’re increasingly seeing smartphone manufacturers integrate ‘satellite-to-device’ connectivity into everyday handsets.
Mandela Day and the Digital Divide: A call for action beyond 67 minutes
Mandela Day (18 July) encourages South Africans to spend 67 minutes of their time giving back to their communities, or one minute for each of the 67 years former President Nelson Mandela dedicated to public service and fighting for human rights. One of the ways that individuals and companies can make a positive difference is by helping to bridge the digital divide. We have made some dramatic strides in making data and devices more affordable and accessible over the past decade.
our smartphone is now your AI-powered work ally - If you use it right
Wherever your team works, remote, hybrid, or on-site, one thing’s certain: they’re never far from their phones. It’s one of the constants of modern work life. But for forward-thinking organisations, the personal smartphone is no longer just a communication tool, it’s becoming a gateway to smarter productivity through generative AI (GenAI). The rise of GenAI marks a major shift in how people work, collaborate and create.
Why dropping the luxury tax matters for digital Inclusion?
In a bold and commendable move, South Africa’s government has decided to remove the 9% ad valorem (luxury) tax on smartphones priced at R2,500 or less. This significant policy shift marks a pivotal moment in the country’s quest for digital inclusion, especially for low-income households who face the harsh reality of an unequal digital divide. But why does this matter, and how can it impact millions of South Africans?
The digital eye revolution: How AI & AR are changing vision care
Each day, the average South African spends around nine and a half hours online, according to We Are Social. This statistic highlights just how central digital technology has become in every sphere of our lives from shopping, entertainment and communications to banking and productivity. As much as the technology enriches and simplifies our lives, constant usage of digital screens has potential drawbacks for the health of our eyes.
The future of smartphones: Key innovations you’ll be using by 2030
Smartphone technology innovation may have appeared to have slowed down, but the telecoms industry is working on some exciting breakthroughs. From the rollout of 6G networks that promise lightning-fast speeds to generative AI features that reshape the way we connect, create, and communicate, we can expect the smartphone of 2030 to look vastly different to today’s models.
Augmented reality on your smartphone: The past, present and future potential
The term ‘augmented reality’ (AR) was coined more than three decades ago and basic AR apps for mobile devices have been around since at least 2008. Yet, despite the hype from app developers and technology manufacturers, many consumers have wondered what all the fuss is about. The AR game, Pokémon GO, brought the technology to mainstream attention when it launched in 2016. It attracted more than 230 million players in its first year, but the excitement quickly died down.
How 5G will transform South African’s experience with Android apps
After years of industry investment, 5G is becoming a mainstream reality for South African consumers and businesses. 5G penetration is ramping up fast nationwide. According to the GSMA, 5G coverage reached more than 41% of the population by late last year, with the pool of 5G subscribers in South Africa expected to reach 58 million by 2030. As importantly as the infrastructure investment, handset manufacturers are delivering 5G handsets that are affordable to the mass market.
How can augmented reality (AR) enhance real world experiences?
With 5G, augmented reality (AR) gets even better. It makes images show up faster, delivers content quickly, and processes things more efficiently, unlocking the full potential of AR. In future, the growing availability of 5G connectivity promises to enable innovative companies to take AR to the next level with richer, more responsive and more collaborative experiences. There is even more potential to unlock via the use of next-generation AI in conjunction with 5G connectivity and AR applications.
TCL sees big mobile opportunity in SA’s mass market
TCL has consolidated its device offering into a single, coherent identity – and the brand has big plans for South Africa.
Aerial Photoluminescence Imaging of Photovoltaic Modules
1 Introduction Field characterization of photovoltaic (PV) modules enables the detection of defects causing power loss or safety problems at an early stage.[ 1 ] Cost-effective on-site examination is essential for commercial relevance and requires high throughput and low invasiveness.
4 Ways That Tracking Your Health And Fitness Can Improve Your Life
By Ernst Wittmann, Global Account Director MEA & Country Manager – Southern Africa, TCL Over the past few years, we’ve seen ‘the quantified self’, ‘life logging’, and ‘health and fitness tracking’ emerge as buzzwords. They all refer to our ability to use smartphones, smartwatches, fitness trackers and other smart devices to keep track of our health and fitness indicators and habits.
VR will reshape our entertainment experiences
Virtual Reality (VR) has a long way to go before it bursts into the mainstream, but there are signs that the technology is starting to mature. Growth is ramping up and exciting applications from gaming to e-learning to media are starting to come to the fore. In fact, Research & Markets forecasts that VR headset sales will grow at a compound annual growth rate of 41% for the next five years, becoming a $38.7 billion market by 2024.
What will 5G really mean for you?
Over the past few months, we have seen a storm of hype about 5G, the next evolution in mobile network technology. Handset manufacturers are starting to come to market with 5G-ready smartphones, while many mobile network operators worldwide are looking to deploy 5G networks in 2019 and 2020. KT in Korea, Rain in South Africa and Swisscom in Switzerland are examples of operators that have already launched commercial 5G services. So what’s all the fuss about? Let’s start with speed.
5 examples of devices the smartphone is displacing
Your Name: Your Email: Send Email To: Keep this field blank Soapbox Smartphones have become the go-to device for so many things we do each day. Mobile phones were originally created to enable us to take and make phone calls on the go. Today, however, voice calls comprise a small part of the functionality that most of us use on our smartphones.
5G networks – what will it mean for you?
Over the past few months, we have seen a storm of hype about 5G, the next evolution in mobile network technology. Handset manufacturers are starting to come to market with 5G-ready smartphones, while many mobile network operators worldwide looking to deploy 5G networks in 2019 and 2020. KT in Korea, Rain in South Africa and Swisscom in Switzerland are examples of operators that have already launched commercial 5G services. So what’s all the fuss about? Let’s start with speed.
5G is much more than the hype
Over the past few months, we have seen a storm of hype about 5G, the next evolution in mobile network technology. Handset manufacturers are starting to come to market with 5G-ready smartphones, while many mobile network operators worldwide looking to deploy 5G networks in 2019 and 2020. KT in Korea, Rain in South Africa and Swisscom in Switzerland are examples of operators that have already launched commercial 5G services. So, what’s all the fuss about? Let’s start with speed.
What Will 5G Really Mean For You?
by Ernst Wittmann Over the past few months, we have seen a storm of hype about 5G, the next evolution in mobile network technology. Handset manufacturers are starting to come to market with 5G-ready smartphones, while many mobile network operators worldwide looking to deploy 5G networks in 2019 and 2020. KT in Korea, Rain in South Africa and Swisscom in Switzerland are examples of operators that have already launched commercial 5G services. So what’s all the fuss about? Let’s start with speed.
Will foldable screens converge all device formats?
A year ago, when the Spanish football league unveiled virtual reality technology for fans to enjoy LaLiga matches through VR headsets, this was the poor relation of the high-tech initiatives that are changing the game in Spain. This year, VR is suddenly one of the highlights, as LaLiga gets to grips with the potential of 360 degree cameras and a user experience that moves through changing rooms, arrival of fans and players, and the exit to the pitch.
5 Examples Of Devices The Smartphone Is Displacing From Our Lives
By Ernst Wittmann Mobile phones were originally created to enable us to take and make phone calls on the go. Today, however, voice calls comprise a small part of the functionality that most of us use on our smartphones. Indeed, more and more people don’t even answer their mobile phones unless it’s someone they know, but rely on their mobile device for just about everything else in their day to day lives.
Foldable screens leading to convergence of computing devices?
Over the past 10 years, smartphones have eased dedicated personal navigation devices, standalone cameras, and alarm clocks out of most of our lives. Could notebook and desktop computers be next? Don’t bet against it—a combination of our changing habits and new technologies could one day turn the standalone computer into a niche device, in much the same way as SLR cameras are today.
Five Predictions For The Future Of Smartphones
By Ernst Wittmann, Global Account Director MEA & Country Manager Innovation in smartphones seems to have hit a ceiling, with most manufacturers releasing new products that feel like incremental improvements on the models that proceeded them. However, we are seeing many interesting technologies reaching an inflection point, which means that we could see some game-changing enhancements to smartphones within the next three to five years.
Five predictions for the future of smartphones
Innovation in smartphones seems to have hit a ceiling, with most manufacturers releasing new products that feel like incremental improvements on the models that proceeded them. However, we are seeing many interesting technologies reaching an inflection point, which means that we could see some game-changing enhancements to smartphones within the next three to five years.
7 Android Apps To Help You Find Your Ideal House In South Africa
Have you ever wondered where and how you even start looking for that dream home? Well wonder no more. From buying your first apartment as a young professional to trading up to a bigger place when you get married and have children is an exciting milestone and a daunting commitment. It takes careful research, diligent financial planning and a bit of luck to find your perfect place and close the deal.
Teaching your children how to use mobile technology responsibly
Smartphones are such a central part of life today that the question is no longer if a child will get a mobile device, but when. Used responsibly, they can be powerful educational tools, give parents the peace of mind of knowing their children are always reachable, and help children come to grips with tech from a young age. Here are some ideas on how parents can help their children make responsible use of smartphones and mobile devices.
Best practices on safeguarding your smartphone and mobile data secure
Your Android smartphone is designed to be secure and includes many features to protect your personal information from thieves and scammers. That said, cyber-criminals are increasingly targeting your mobile device because it contains valuable data, such as banking passwords and usernames, e-commerce and social media logins, and personal information that can be used in identity theft scams.
Breakthroughs in AI will make your smartphone even smarter in 2018
More and more smartphone users are using virtual assistants such as Google Assistant to enhance their mobile experiences. These voice-powered artificial intelligence (AI)-enhanced assistants are making it easier and faster to gain access to a wide range of services and information via your phone.
Breakthroughs in AI Will Make Your Smartphone Even Smarter in 2018 | TechFinancials
By Ernst Wittmann, Regional Manager – Southern and East Africa at TCL More and more smartphone users are using virtual assistants such as Google Assistant to enhance their mobile experiences. These voice-powered artificial intelligence (AI)-enhanced assistants are making it easier and faster to gain access to a wide range of services and information via your phone.
Why your child should wear a smart watch
The growing selection of affordable smartwatches designed specifically for children has opened new options for parents who are shopping for wearables for younger kids. Wearables give parents peace of mind by helping them track a child’s location and allowing them to stay in touch via text and phone calls. Smartwatches for children offer a more streamlined set of features, a simpler interface and bolder, funkier designs than the high-end options for adults.
Digital trends that will shape 2018
The next wave of digital technologies is on the way, and it promises to change our lives as dramatically as the smartphone did. By Ernst Wittmann, global account director: MEA and country manager: southern Africa at Alcatel We’re seeing technologies such as chatbots, augmented reality and video that has transformed the way we use our mobile devices. Here are a few of the mobile and digital trends that are likely to unfold during 2018.
Top 5 digital trends that will shape 2018
The next wave of digital technologies is on the way, and it promises to change our lives as dramatically as the smartphone did. We’re seeing technologies such as chatbots, augmented reality and video that has transformed the way we use our mobile devices. Here are a few of the mobile and digital trends that are likely to unfold during 2018.
To succeed with youth on social media, let them be part of the brand’s story
VIEWING PAGE 1 OF 1 << PREVIOUS PAGE next page >> By Ernst Wittmann, Global Account director MEA & Country Manager – Southern Africa, at Alcatel South Africa’s first digital-native generation is coming of age, and it’s changing the rules for marketers. Some 41% of South Africans are younger than 22 years old and have grown up with smartphones and social media, so they have different perceptions of marketing to Generation Xers and baby boomers.
5G will bring IoT to Life
By now, many of us have heard about the Internet of Things – the trend that sees sensors and Internet connectivity embedded into just about every device and tool we use on a daily basis in both our personal and professional lives. From smart thermostats and LED lighting in your home to an array of instruments in your car to fitness wearables – the IT industry is connecting just about everything you can imagine to the Internet.
5G will bring the Internet of Things to life
By now, many of us have heard about the Internet of Things – the trend that sees sensors and Internet connectivity embedded into just about every device and tool we use on a daily basis in both our personal and professional lives. From smart thermostats and LED lighting in your home to an array of instruments in your car to fitness wearables – the IT industry is connecting just about everything you can imagine to the Internet.
5 ways to keep your IoT devices safe and secure - Digital Street
The Internet of Things (IoT) is rapidly taking off as people and businesses connect everything from their cars, to their home automation systems, and to the Internet. These devices are starting to change how we live and work – allowing us to track our heart rates and calories with a fitness tracker, monitor and improve our driving habits via a vehicle telematics device, and so much more. Yet connecting a device to the Internet exposes it to a range of information security threats.
The Internet of Things is here and it will change the world - Digital Street
The Internet of Things – an ecosystem of smart, connected devices and sensors that talk to each other and take independent, automated action – is here already and will become a part of our everyday lives within the next two to three years. That’s according to Ernst Wittmann, Regional Manager for Southern Africa at ALCATEL, who says that new research and data indicates that the Internet of Things is at an inflection point.
Here are the 10 top trending YouTube videos of 2015
Here are the 10 top trending YouTube videos of 2015 Ahead of the launch of its annual Rewind video, YouTube has announced its top trending videos for 2015. Based on views, shares, comments, likes and more, the list dance phenomenons, social commentaries, pranks, and late night TV moments. According to YouTube, this is the first year that a dance video has made the top of YouTube’s trending videos list. Four television moments have made the list this year, including three late night talk shows.
Jeff Bezos offers to send Donald Trump to space, the world cheers
Jeff Bezos offers to send Donald Trump to space, the world cheers Donald Trump, since announcing his intentions to be the US president, has been in the media a lot recently thanks to his racist and Islamophobic foreign policies. And as one should expect, there has been a fair bit of social media outcry from the public and other prospective candidates. His latest vitriol was against the Washington Post, which is owned by Jeff Bezos, calling it a scam and a big tax shelter.
The Internet of Things is here, and it will revolve around the smartphone
The Internet of Things is here, and it will revolve around the smartphone The falling prices and shrinking sizes of computer processors and sensors, coupled with a proliferation of mobile connectivity, is spurring the rapid growth of the Internet of Things (IoT). As connected cars, connected homes, and connected workplaces join the IoT, devices such as smartphones, tablet computers and smartwatches will serve as the primary interfaces through which people interact with IoT devices and equipment.
Are you an Instagram husband? This video shows there's hope
Are you an Instagram husband? This video shows there’s hope Has it been months since you ate a meal at the temperature it was served at? Do you know the perfect filter for that “oh-so-cute” piece of latte art, even though you couldn’t actually care less? Can your significant other not walk past an aesthetically pleasing wall without stopping and asking for a photo? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you may well be an Instagram husband.
Paris, Pluto, #BlackLivesMatter: Facebook's 2015 year in review
Facebook has released its 2015 year in review, with the upcoming US presidential elections, the recent terror attacks in Paris, and the ongoing Syrian refugee crisis ranking among its most talked about news events. Following those events are the Nepal earthquakes and the Greek debt crisis. Ed Sheeran meanwhile topped the list of most talked-about entertainers, followed by Taylor Swift at #2, Kanye West at #3, Nicky Jam at #4, and Wiz Khalifa rounding out the top five.
Cricket South Africa Facebook page hacked, flooded with softcore porn
On Tuesday night, South African cricket fans looking for updates from Cricket South Africa (CSA) got more than they bargained for. Rather than the usual news about upcoming fixtures or player health, the organisation’s Facebook page found itself carrying images of softcore porn and links to adult sites. The strange turn in content was apparently down to the page being hacked, with CSA unable to regain access to the account until the early hours of Wednesday morning.
Gartner: people are hungrier than ever for devices
Gartner: people are hungrier than ever for devices There’s a video that’s made its way around the web a million or so times: it shows all the devices we used to need on our desk and how every function they performed can now be done with a laptop and smartphone. It suggests that our lives are simpler now and that we need fewer things. It could be right too, but it doesn’t mean we want fewer things. Not even a little bit.
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