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FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 lauded for its broadcast coverage

Ciara Alarcon
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FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 lauded for its broadcast coverage

The FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023, held in Manila, concluded on September 10 after more than two weeks of thrilling basketball action. This event, hosted by the Philippines, saw the world’s top teams competing for basketball supremacy, and it left fans and organizers alike lauding the world-class coverage and unforgettable moments it provided.

fiba world cup

Record-Breaking Opening Match and “Pearl” Debut

The tournament opened with a historic match between Gilas Pilipinas and the Dominican Republic at the Philippine Arena on August 25, 2023. This game set a new FIBA World Cup record for live attendance, with an astounding 38,115 fans witnessing the spectacle.

Additionally, the event introduced the world to “Pearl,” the first Filipino Digital Human. This groundbreaking creation, a collaboration between Smart-PLDT, NTT Data, and MediaQuest, added a unique dimension to the tournament.

MVP Group of Companies: A Team Effort

The success of the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 was made possible through the dedicated efforts of the entire MVP Group of Companies. Andreas Zagklis, Secretary General of the International Basketball Federation (FIBA), commended the organization for exceeding expectations in terms of drama, fan engagement, social media impact, and the overall experience.

Cignal TV played a pivotal role in staging the games and providing world-class coverage. They harnessed their expertise in event production and sports broadcasting to create an unforgettable spectacle for the global audience.

Fans across the Philippines had the opportunity to enjoy the games through 238 watch parties hosted in 92 locations nationwide, organized by Cignal TV in collaboration with malls and barangays.

For viewers at home, multiple options were available, including free-to-air channels on TV5 and One Sports, Pay TV channels One Sports+ and PBA Rush, and Cignal and SatLite pay-per-view services.

Moreover, Cignal TV’s OTT streaming platform, Pilipinas Live, offered uninterrupted coverage of all 92 games. This innovative sports app enhanced the viewing experience with unique features such as multi-camera views, behind-the-scenes content, and the fan stream feature.

Sienna G. Olaso, Cignal TV’s First Vice President and Head of Channel and Content Management, highlighted their commitment to delivering top-tier coverage using state-of-the-art equipment. Olaso, who also served as Broadcast, Media, and Ceremonies Head for FIBA LOC, emphasized their dedication to providing the best game coverage.

A Culmination of Hard Work by the MVP Group

Jane J. Basas, President and CEO of Mediaquest Holdings and Cignal TV, emphasized that the successful hosting and broadcast of the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 was the result of years of hard work and collaboration within the MVP Group.

Basas expressed her gratitude to all the partners involved, including FIBA, SBP, Smart-PLDT, and the production and broadcast teams from Cignal. She also extended her appreciation to the volunteers who contributed to the event’s success.

Future Endeavors for Cignal TV

With the triumphant conclusion of the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023, Cignal TV is now focused on further enhancing its world-class production and broadcast capabilities. Their upcoming endeavors include the 19th Asian Games in Hangzhou, China, and the 2027 FIBA World Cup in Qatar.

HUAWEI Watch GT 4 Officially Unveiled

Jam Ancheta
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HUAWEI Watch GT 4 Officially Unveiled

The new generation of the GT watches from HUAWEI has been unveiled and it’s the HUAWEI Watch GT4. The newest smartwatches from HUAWEI comes with its unique and stylish designs along with a smart features that you need on a smartwatch.

Unlike the HUAWEI Watch 4, the HUAWEI Watch GT4 packs a longer battery life however, this one doesn’t come with the HUAWEI AppGallery for 3rd party applications.

HUAWEI Watch GT

The HUAWEI Watch GT 4 comes in 41mm and 46mm watchfaces. The 46mm comes with a 1.43” display while 41mm comes with 1.32” display. Both watch sizes will come with a resolution of 466×466.

The bigger 46mm coming with a maximum of 2 weeks battery life while the 41mm can go as high as up to 1 week.

HUAWEI Watch GT

For the smartwatch features, this one comes plenty as it features TruSeen 5.5+  with TruSleep 3.0 tech for sleep monitoring that can monitor your sleep cycle and even sleep habits. It also monitors your snoring so it can also monitor if you are having sleep problems.

Another addition is the Menstrual Cycle Management 3.0 that can predict your menstrual cycle. Other features includes a GNSS for a more accurate positioning and also sensors for SpO2, Heart rate, Skin temperature, and more.

Huawei Watch GT variants
Huawei Watch GT variants

The HUAWEI Watch GT4 also comes with integration with different application so you can have better notifications on the watch. The HUAWEI Watch GT 4 works on both iOS and Android.

The HUAWEI Watch GT4 comes in 41mm and 46mm watchfaces and it also comes in different bands including black rubber, brown leather, rainforest green GMT and steel for the 46mm while the 41mm, there’s the white leather, milanese and two tone piano key.

Why you should choose the iPhone 15 Pro Max over any other iPhones

Jam Ancheta
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Why you should choose the iPhone 15 Pro Max over any other iPhones

There are many reasons to get the brand new iPhone 15 smartphone as it packs a lot of new features especially with its USB-C port that consumers having been asking for years but if you’re getting one for this generation then better get the iPhone 15 Pro Max because THAT is the best iPhone out there and no, it’s not just because of the large display.

iPhone Pro Philippines

What’s new on the iPhone 15 Pro Series?

Screenshot at AM

First, what are the new and unique features on the iPhone 15 Pro Series? Well, the new iPhone 15 Pro series packs a titanium frame, a 3nm A17 Pro chipset, and of course a better camera. Another cool new feature is that they replaced the slider into an action button that you can now customized. 

But of course, the question remains. Why should I get the iPhone 15 Pro Max and not the iPhone 15 Pro or the cheaper iPhone 15 series?

Better camera

iPhone Pro Philippines

This generation, the iPhone 15 Pro Max will pack a better camera than the iPhone 15 Pro as the Pro Max variant will now have a 5x Telephoto lens. This means that you can have a 120mm zoom lens on the smartphone that you can use for shooting from long range especially for concerts. 

256GB Starting memory

Unlike any other iPhones, the iPhone 15 Pro Max will now start with a 256GB storage. Even the iPhone 15 Pro will start at 128GB and for 2023’s standards, this one might not be enough anymore as games and apps are getting bigger and bigger and of course, there’s ProRes recording as well which will take up a lot of storage on the iPhone. Oh and did I say that console games are coming to iPhone 15 Pro series?

Console-quality games needs a larger display and battery

Screenshot at PM

One of the things that Apple has announced at the iPhone 15 event is that console games are coming to iPhone 15 Pro thanks to the power of the A17 Pro chip. Next year, we can expect Assassins Creed: Mirage, Death Stranding, Resident Evil 4 Remake and Resident Evil: Village to arrive on the iPhone 15 Series.

And no, those aren’t the mobile version of the games as we’re getting here the console level quality thanks to the A17 Pro chip inside. So why is it best for the iPhone 15 Pro Max? Simple. It’s best played on a larger display and also on a bigger battery

USB-C with faster speeds

Apple iPhone Pro lineup USB C connector cable big jpg medium
Apple iPhone Pro lineup USB C connector cable big jpg medium

The faster speeds specifically 10GB/s transfer speeds on the USB-C port of the iPhone 15 Pro is something that you would really appreciate especially if you always transfer photos and videos to your laptop or mac. But here’s the thing, you can now record videos and save it directly on the external SSD that is connected to the iPhone. 

And again, recording videos are better on the larger display and also the better camera of the iPhone 15 Pro Max.

Same starting price

Despite the improvements that are exclusive on the iPhone 15 Pro Series and also the better camera and larger starting memory, the iPhone 15 Pro Max will still have an almost the same starting price at Php84,990. Compared last year, we only have a Php1,000 pesos increase. But again, there’s the bigger storage, a telephoto camera, and a lot of whole new features. 

Toyota Motor Philippines launches the Hilux GR-S

Jam Ancheta
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Toyota Motor Philippines launches the Hilux GR-S

Toyota Motor Philippines has added another car in their lineup as they unveiled the Hilux GR Sport (GR-S)  for the Philippine market.

New Hilux GR S
New Hilux GR S

The Hilux GR-S comes with a tough design and also a wide-tread body, a matte black GR-S overfenders, 17-inch alloy GR design wheels with all-terrain tires and of course, the GR Aero Sports Bar.

The Hilux GR-S also comes with a wider body which is now wider by 120mm and taller by 65mm. As for the exterior, the Hilux GR-S features a more rugged look which gives a better impression in terms of quality, durability, and reliability.

While for the engine, there’s the 2.8L Diesel, 4-Cylinder, 16-Valve DOHC Variable Nozzle Turbo engine with an air-cooled intercooler that gives out a 224PS and 550Nm torque. It also features a front and rear disk brakes with GR brake calipers.

On the inside, the Hilux GR-S comes with a GR-S suede and leather seats along with the GR-S emblem in its leather steering wheel while there’s the leather door trims with tehcnical mesh and red seatbelts that adds to the sporty apperance.

There’s the 9-inch display audio as well with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and also a wireless charger. It also features Smart Entry and Push Start System. For the other smart features, it also comes with Blind Spot Monitor, Rear Cross Traffic Alert and many more.

The Hilux GR-S will come in the following colors and price:

Color SRP
Emotional Red PHP 2,186,000
Super White II / Attitude Black Mica (2-tone)
Attitude Black Mica PHP 2,166,000

The New Hilux GR-S is now available.

Huawei-backed automaker Aito readies ultra-luxury SUV, the Aito M9

Ciara Alarcon
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Huawei-backed automaker Aito readies ultra-luxury SUV, the Aito M9

Aito, the automotive company backed by Huawei, is making significant strides toward the launch of its ultra-luxury SUV, the Aito M9. Meanwhile, recent regulatory filings with the Chinese Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) have shed light on key specifications and provided a glimpse of the vehicle through leaked images.

huawei aito m
Image Source: ArenaEV
Dual Variants: EREV and BEV

The Aito M9 will be offered in two distinct versions, catering to a broad range of preferences. The first variant, known as EREV (Extended Range Electric Vehicle), boasts a powertrain comprising a 112 hp, 1.5L generator, complemented by two electric motors. These motors include a 221 hp unit positioned on the front axle and a rear-mounted motor generating an impressive 268 hp.

On the other hand, for those seeking even more potent performance, the BEV (Battery Electric Vehicle) variant steps up the game. It also relies on a Huawei-manufactured 215 hp front motor coupled with a robust 308 hp rear motor. Moreover, powering this variant are advanced batteries sourced from Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. Limited (CATL).

aito m huawei
Image Source: ArenaEV
Rumored Launch Date

Meanwhile, if development proceeds according to plan, the Aito M9 is poised to hit the market by the conclusion of Q4 this year. This luxury SUV will also incorporate the latest cutting-edge technologies from Huawei, positioning it as a beacon of innovation in the automotive landscape.

Stay tuned for more updates as the Aito M9 approaches its official release.

Source: ArenaEV

Nothing rolls out OS 2.0 to Phone (1), announces Phone (2) camera update

Ciara Alarcon
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Nothing rolls out OS 2.0 to Phone (1), announces Phone (2) camera update

Nothing announced the rollout of OS 2.0 to Phone (1) users. This latest software update brings new features, enhanced customization options, and improved functionality, signifying a new era for Nothing’s first smartphone.

Nothing Softwareupdate x

OS 2.0: Elevating User Experience

Nothing OS 2.0 has been accessible to Phone (2) users since its launch last month. However, today marks a significant milestone as Phone (1) users join the OS 2.0 journey. The update places ‘mindful consumption’ at its core, enhancing the overall user interface and features. A comprehensive list of OS 2.0 features can be found on the official Nothing blog.

Nothing Softwareupdate x

Prioritizing Camera Performance: OS 2.0.2a for Phone (2)

Last week, Nothing delivered an update for Phone (2) users with Nothing OS 2.0.2a. This update was tailored to enhance camera performance, with a focus on HDR improvements, optimizing low-light scenarios, and refining facial clarity. This marks yet another step forward in software enhancements since the initial Phone (2) launch in July.

Digital Walker Promo for Nothing Phone (1)

Digital Walker is offering an exciting promotion for Nothing Phone (1). The promotion includes big discounts on various Phone (1) configurations and runs until October 31, 2023. Here are the details:

  • 8GB RAM + 128GB Storage

SRP: Php27,990
Promo Price: Php22,990

  • 8GB RAM + 256GB Storage

SRP: Php29,990
Promo Price: Php24,990

  • 12GB RAM + 256GB Storage

SRP: Php32,990
Promo Price: Php29,990

These promos are available at all Digital Walker Retail Stores.

Apple AirPods Pro 2 with USB-C, lossless audio announced

Ciara Alarcon
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0
Apple AirPods Pro 2 with USB-C, lossless audio announced

Apple has taken a leap forward during its latest iPhone launch event. In a significant move, Apple bid farewell to the Lightning connector, fully embracing the universal USB-C connector. As part of this transition, Apple announced the upgraded AirPods Pro 2 featuring USB-C compatibility, Lossless Audio support, and an improved IP54 rating for enhanced durability.

The AirPods Pro 2 now boast USB-C charging case compatibility, aligning with Apple’s commitment to the versatile USB-C connector. This update ensures a seamless charging experience and greater compatibility with a wide range of devices.

apple airpods pro

Lossless Audio Support

One of the standout features of the AirPods Pro 2 is their support for Lossless Audio with a remarkable 20-bit, 48 kHz audio quality. However, there’s a caveat – this feature is exclusively compatible with the upcoming Apple Vision Pro headset, slated to debut in the US early next year. The AirPods Pro 2’s integration of the H2 chip, also present in the Vision Pro, facilitates the transmission of Lossless Audio. This advancement raises questions about why this feature was absent in last year’s Lightning model.

Enhanced Durability: IP54 Rating

Apple has further solidified the AirPods Pro 2’s durability with an upgraded IP54 rating. This rating not only certifies resistance against water and sweat, as seen in the previous IPX4-rated Lightning AirPods Pro 2, but also adds dust resistance to the mix. Users can now enjoy their AirPods Pro 2 in various environments with confidence.

Additional Features for an Immersive Experience

The AirPods Pro 2 pack several additional features to enhance the overall listening experience. These include:

  • Adaptive Audio: Tailoring sound output to your surroundings for an immersive experience.
  • Personalized Volume: Adjusting the audio level based on your preferences, ensuring comfortable listening.
  • Conversation Awareness: Allowing you to stay connected to your surroundings while enjoying your music.
Battery Life and Reverse Charging

The AirPods Pro 2 maintain their impressive battery life, offering up to 6 hours of continuous listening time, with the charging case providing an additional 30 hours of power. What’s more, users can now reverse charge their AirPods Pro 2 directly from their iPhone via the USB-C connection.

Availability and Pricing

The AirPods Pro 2 with the USB-C charging case retain their price tag of $249 (~Php14.2K) and are available in a classic white color. Consumers can get their hands on these earbuds starting September 22.

Fujifilm unveils new flagship medium format camera, lenses

Ciara Alarcon
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Fujifilm unveils new flagship medium format camera, lenses

Fujifilm has officially announced the launch of the FUJIFILM GFX100 II medium format camera along with a trio of lenses: GF55mmF1.7 R WR, GF30mmF5.6 T/S, and GF110mmF5.6 T/S Macro. These additions mark an exciting leap in photographic technology, pushing the boundaries of image quality and creative possibilities.

GFX II

GFX100 II

At the heart of this launch is the GFX100 II camera, equipped with a large-format sensor 1.7 times the size of a full-frame sensor. This powerhouse delivers the highest burst-shooting, autofocus, and video performance in the history of the GFX Series. The GFX100 II is set to redefine genre coverage and cater to diverse photography styles, from fashion and commercial to sports and news photography.

One of the standout features is the introduction of AI-based subject detection autofocus, coupled with a high-speed image processing engine. This combination elevates burst shooting performance from 5.0 to an impressive 8.0 frames per second. This versatility ensures that photographers can capture the perfect shot, no matter the subject or scenario.

In the realm of videography, the GFX100 II takes a giant leap forward. It can record 4K/60P 4:2:2 10-bit video internally, setting a new standard for the GFX Series. Moreover, it supports 8K/30P video, a first for this line of cameras. With video format modes optimized for different lenses and enhanced connectivity options such as Ethernet and HDMI ports, the GFX100 II is a robust choice for professional videographers.

gfmm

GF55mmF1.7 R WR prime lens

Accompanying the GFX100 II is the GF55mmF1.7 R WR, a large-aperture prime lens designed for Fujifilm’s GFX Series large-format cameras. With its wide maximum aperture, this lens offers creamy bokeh and a natural field of view akin to human vision. It excels in capturing subjects against beautifully blurred backgrounds, making it a go-to choice for various photography styles, from snapshots to portraits.

GF Tilt-Shift Lenses

Fujifilm also introduced two tilt-shift lenses to the GFX Series lineup. The GF30mmF5.6 T/S corrects distortion, making it ideal for landscape and architectural photography. On the other hand, the GF110mmF5.6 T/S Macro offers precise control, producing distortion and aberration-free images suitable for product photography, still-life, portraits, and macro subjects.

Pricing and Availability
  • GFX100 II Body

SRP: Php459,990
Availability: End of September 2023

  • Vertical Grip GFX100 II

SRP: Php31,990
Availability: End of September 2023

  • GF55mmF1.7 R WR

SRP: Php140,990
Availability: End of September 2023

  • GF30mmF5.6 T/S

SRP: Php250,990
Availability: End of October 2023

  • GF110mmF5.6 T/S Macro

SRP: Php220,990
Availability: End of November 2023

Meanwhile, pre-order details for these devices from Fujifilm will be announced soon.

iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max Unveiled with a Titanium Build, USB-C, and a 3nm processor

Jam Ancheta
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0
iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max Unveiled with a Titanium Build, USB-C, and a 3nm processor

Apple has just unveiled their best iPhone ever — the iPhone 15 Pro Series. Just like before, it comes in two variants which are the iPhone 15 Pro and the iPhone 15 Pro Max. This year, these two smartphones now pack a different camera system but of them are still powerful and premium.

iPhone Pro PhilippinesiPhone Pro PhilippinesiPhone Pro Philippines

Titanium Build

iPhone Pro Philippines

Apple is really proud of its Titanium Build for the iPhone 15 Pro series as it comes with a more solid and tough build and yet it packs a lighter body. Aside from that, there’s the slightly curved back now which helps in the ergonomics of the smartphone.

New action button

Screenshot at AM
Screenshot at AM

The slider on the side of the iPhone is now gone and it is now replaced by the Action Button. By default, it acts as the toggle for ring and silent on the iPhone but this time, you can now customize it base on what you want for the smartphone.

3nm A17 Pro Chip

iPhone Pro Philippines

The A17 Pro chip is the first 3nm chip in the industry and unlike any other phone chipset from Apple, the A17 Pro is powerful as it packs a 2x faster Neural Engine, a 20% faster GPU and a hardware-accelerated ray tracing.

The chip also includes AV1 decoder so high quality video and streaming services are now supported on the iPhone 15 Pro. It also comes with a new USB controller that allows for a USB 3 speeds on the iPhone.

More Powerful Camera

iPhone Pro Philippines

The iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max will come with a more powerful camera as it comes with a 48MP main camera along with the ability to choose from different focal lengths — 24mm, 28mm, and 35mm. This will give you a similar look to a telephoto lenses on the mirrorless cameras.

The Pro Max also features the longest optical zoom as it features a 120 mm optical zoom which lets you zoom in even more and have a better potrait shots on the iPhone 15 Pro Max. The iPhone 15 Pro series also enjoys a better night mode, a better quality video thanks to the A17 Pro chip and the Smart HDR.

Fast USB-C Connectivity

One of the things that Apple is really proud of is the USB-C connectivity of the smartphone. It supports 10GB/s speeds which lets you transfer photos and videos faster to your Mac and of course, you can connect other accessories as well such as SSD and flash drives to the USB-C port.

Desktop games are coming!

One of the biggest Flex for the iPhone 15 Pro’s A17 Pro chip are the games that will be arriving to the smartphone series. Early next year, desktop/console games such as Assassins Creed Mirage, Resident Evil Village, Resident Evil 4, and Death Stranding are arriving to the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max.

iPhone 15 Pro Price in the Philippines:

  • iPhone 15 Pro
    • 128GB – Php 70,990
    • 256GB – Php 77,990
    • 512GB – Php 89,990
    • 1TB – Php 101,990
  • iPhone 15 Pro Max
    • 256GB – Php 84,990
    • 512GB – Php 96,990
    • 1TB – Php 108,990
  • Colors: Natural Titanium, Blue Titanium, White Titanium, Black Titanium

iPhone 15 will now have the Dynamic Island and USB-C port

Jam Ancheta
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0
iPhone 15 will now have the Dynamic Island and USB-C port

The iPhone 15 Series is finally here and it has the feature that we all want on an iPhone — a USB Type C port. Apple has finally made the switch to USB Type C for the iPhone and they also upgraded the iPhone 15 to sport a Dynamic Island.

Same display size but with Dynamic Island

iPhone Philippines

Apple first introduced the Dynamic Island on the iPhone 14 Pro Series last year and finally, it has arrived on the iPhone 15 series. The screen size is still the same at 6.1-inch and 6.7-inch for the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus respectively and they pack a peak outdoor brightness of up to 2000 nits.

 A more powerful camera

The iPhone 15 Pro series will feature a 48MP main camera and it comes with a faster and better camera that can shoot sharper details, vivid colors, and better low-light performance than before. While the smartphone might still have a dual-lens camera, the main camera of the smartphone can still do wonders

Same A16 Bionic Chipset

iPhone Philippines

Unfortunately, the iPhone 15 Series will pack an A16 Bionic chip, the same chip that we’ve seen on the iPhone 14 Pro series. While this one isn’t bad but it has now been established since last year that the non-pro versions will pack a generation older chipset.

It packs a six-core CPU along with five-core GPU and also a 16-core Neural Engine. For gaming, it’s definitely capable of the latest mobile games out there. While for photography, the chipset can definitely help in a lot of ways to improve your shots.

USB-C

iPhone Philippines

The iPhone 15 will pack a USB-C port this time ditching the lightning connector after more than a decade. But unfortunately, the iPhone 15 will still pack a USB 2.0 speeds inside so transferring files from the iPhone 15 isn’t really much of an upgrade but there’s fast charging on this one however, it was not specified. Apple only detailed that a 20W charger can charge up to 50% in just 30 minutes

iPhone 15 Price in the Philippines:

  • iPhone 15
    • 128GB – Php 56,990
    • 256GB – Php 63,990
    • 512GB – Php 75,990
  • iPhone 15 Plus
    • 128GB – Php 63,990
    • 256GB – Php 70,990
    • 512GB – Php 82,990
  • Colors: Blue, pink, yellow, green, black
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