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Garmin outs fēnix 7 Pro and epix Pro Series in PH

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Garmin has officially launched the fēnix 7 Pro and epix Pro Series in the Philippines. The launch event, held at the Manila Padel Club on June 28, 2023, showcased the cutting-edge features of these premium multisport GPS smartwatches. Designed to enhance the performance of athletes and adventurers, the fēnix 7 Pro and epix Pro Series incorporate solar charging technology and offer a range of innovative functionalities.

fēnix 7 Pro Series: Pushing Limits with Solar Power

The fēnix 7 Pro Series is Garmin’s flagship multisport GPS smartwatch that empowers users to excel in their athletic pursuits. Powered by solar charging, these timepieces provide pro-grade performance insights, advanced mapping capabilities, and comprehensive health and wellness tracking. Also, its built-in LED flashlight and solar charging lens on every model ensure a remarkable battery life of up to 37 days in smartwatch mode and an impressive 139 days in expedition mode. Here are some key features of the fēnix 7 Pro Series:

  • Enhanced Visibility: All sizes of the fēnix 7 Pro Series are equipped with a built-in LED flashlight, offering variable intensities, a red safety light, and a strobe mode for improved visibility during nighttime training.
  • Next-Generation MIP Display: The redesigned pixels, backlight, and solar panel ensure exceptional indoor readability, brightness, power efficiency, and adaptability to different lighting conditions.
  • Advanced Heart Rate Sensor: Improved optical sensors and sport-specific algorithms deliver enhanced performance tracking across various activities, providing valuable insights into the body’s response to exercise.
  • Endurance Score and Hill Score: These features measure the ability to sustain prolonged efforts and gauge running strength on steep climbs, offering valuable assessments of fitness levels.
  • Up Ahead Checkpoints and Weather Map Overlays: Users can stay informed about upcoming running points of interest and effortlessly access and interpret weather conditions with intuitive map overlays.

epix Pro Series: Crystal-Clear Display and Exceptional Battery Life

Meanwhile, the epix Pro Series is Garmin’s next-generation high-performance GPS smartwatch collection, featuring a crystal-clear AMOLED display, rugged design, and remarkable battery life of up to 31 days. These smartwatches are also available in three sizes (42mm, 47mm, and 51mm) and offer comprehensive all-day health monitoring and fitness metrics. The built-in LED flashlight on each model enhances visibility in low-light conditions. Key features of the epix Pro Series include:

  • Perfect Fit: Users can choose from three different size options to ensure a comfortable and secure fit on any wrist size.
  • Red Shift Mode: The display colors shift to shades of red in darker conditions, reducing sleep cycle disturbance and optimizing the visual experience.
  • Expanded Activity Selection: Engage in various new preloaded activities, such as soccer, basketball, racquet sports, and horseback riding.
  • Advanced Training Metrics: Gain a better understanding of fitness levels with features like hill and endurance scores, providing insights into performance and progress.
All-Day Wearability and Connectivity

Both the fēnix 7 Pro Series and epix Pro Series also offer seamless all-day wear with exceptional battery life and solar charging capabilities. Users can enjoy continuous health and wellness insights, including features like Pulse Ox monitoring, Body Battery energy tracking, comprehensive sleep analysis, and more. In addition, these smartwatches provide various connectivity options, including notifications, Garmin Pay for contactless payments, music downloads (premium subscription required), and safety features like incident detection and LiveTrack.

Pricing and Availability

The fēnix 7 and 7s Pro Sapphire Solar are now available for purchase at Php56,500, while the fēnix 7x Pro Sapphire Solar is priced at Php62,780. On the other hand, the epix Pro Sapphire 42MM and 47MM models are priced at Php62,780, and the epix Pro Sapphire 51MM is available for purchase at Php69,050.

For more information on the fēnix 7 Pro and epix Pro Series, interested individuals can visit the Garmin Philippines website or check out their Facebook page.

Meta’s Threads is now LIVE!

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Finally, a decent and a worthy competitor to Twitter is now available to the public and it’s called Threads. It’s another app made by Meta, the creators of Facebook and Instagram and it aims to go head to head against Twitter which is now plagued with issues and controversies.

Threads app
Threads app

Threads is now available on iOS and on Android on different countries however, EU isn’t included as the region is reportedly concern about the data privacy regulations.

Users are now able to login to Threads using their Instagram app. It will also be using ActivityPub, the same social networking protocol used by Mastodon so you can take your audience to another server. Basically, decentralized.

For now, you can post photos, videos and text on the app however, there are still some missing features including the ability to Direct Message or to have a customized tab or feed for your followings.

If you’re worried about your following and followers, Threads has the ability to sync your following from Instagram so in case a friend or a page that you’re following registered to Threads, you’ll automatically follow them.

If you want to check out Threads, it’s now available on the Play Store and App Store

UnionDigital Bank secures Php900M capital approval from UnionBank

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UnionDigital Bank (UD), a subsidiary of UnionBank of the Philippines, has received regulatory approval for a capital infusion of up to Php900 million. This significant investment from its parent bank will serve as a catalyst for the digital bank’s expansion plans, with a particular focus on bolstering its digital loan offerings through the UD app.

Enhanced Digital Loan Experience

The capital infusion empowers UD to expand its digital loan portfolio by leveraging its app and application programming interfaces (APIs). By harnessing these digital channels, UD aims to provide customers with expedited access to credit and a streamlined loan application process.

Meanwhile, the capital infusion is pending regulatory approval from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), ensuring compliance with financial regulations.

Fueling Growth Trajectory

Henry Aguda, President and CEO of UnionDigital Bank, expressed enthusiasm about the approved funding and highlighted UnionBank’s confidence in UD’s strategic growth plan and financial performance. The capital infusion will also propel the bank’s growth trajectory and enable it to cater to the diverse financial needs of its customers. Aguda emphasized UD’s commitment to serving individuals at the base of the income pyramid, aiming to include them in the formal financial system.

Strong Financial Performance

UD’s ecosystem-led business model has yielded positive results, as reflected in its net profits during the first quarter of 2023. The digital bank’s focus on embedded finance has opened new avenues for customers to engage with banking services seamlessly. Recent partnerships with mWell and HUAWEI have allowed UD to tap into a substantial customer base and leverage a wide range of services, further strengthening its position in the market.

Expanding Digital Channels

Mike Singh, Chief Commercial and Revenue Officer of UnionDigital Bank, highlighted the bank’s commitment to diversifying its deposit base and loan book through strategic partnerships and scalable digital channels. Singh emphasized that the approved capital infusion not only bolsters UD’s financial strength but also unlocks numerous opportunities. The bank’s mission to improve credit accessibility for every Filipino, regardless of their location, will be accelerated through enhanced digital loan offerings, empowering individuals to achieve their financial aspirations.

UnionDigital Bank is dedicated to fostering financial inclusion and uplifting communities. The bank strives to eliminate barriers that impede individuals from accessing essential financial services, providing Filipinos across the nation with the means to build a secure future.

Xiaomi bags Institutional Investor’s Asia Executive Team Awards for 5 consecutive years

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Xiaomi has secured multiple accolades in the prestigious Institutional Investor Asia Pacific (Ex-Japan) Executive Team Awards for the fifth consecutive year.

The brand has emerged triumphant in the “2023 Asia Pacific (Ex-Japan) Executive Team” awards in the Technology Hardware sector, clinching the top position in several categories. The company’s outstanding performance has also earned it recognition for Best CEO, Best CFO, Best Investor Relations Professional, Best Investor Relations Program, Best ESG, and Best Board.

This remarkable achievement marks the second consecutive year that Xiaomi has attained All-Star status by securing the first-place ranking across all six categories.

Exceptional Leadership

Founder, Chairman, and CEO of Xiaomi, Mr. Lei Jun, has been honored as the Best CEO, demonstrating his exceptional leadership skills and strategic vision. Meanwhile, Mr. Alain Lam, Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, has received the accolade for Best CFO, highlighting his financial expertise and contributions to the company’s success. Additionally, Anita Chen, Director of Investor Relations and Capital Markets, got the Best Investor Relations Professional award for her exceptional communication and engagement with investors.

Leading in Corporate Governance

Xiaomi has also excelled in corporate governance, earning top rankings in Best Investor Relations Program, Best Investor Relations Team, Best ESG, and Best Board categories. This recognition showcases the company’s commitment to transparency, effective communication with the capital markets, and sustainable business practices. Xiaomi’s consistent presence in the rankings since its stock market debut reflects the trust and confidence it has garnered from investors.

Commitment to Excellence

Mr. Alain Lam, Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Xiaomi Corporation, expressed gratitude for the prestigious awards, emphasizing the company’s dedication to open and effective communication with the capital markets. He also highlighted Xiaomi’s commitment to adapt to the evolving business landscape while generating enhanced value for investors and partners across various sectors.

Rigorous Evaluation Process

Institutional Investor magazine’s All-Asia Executive Team survey is a highly respected benchmark for superior corporate governance standards. In addition, a rigorous evaluation process determined the rankings, with thousands of analysts, fund managers, and researchers participating in the voting. The 2023 survey considered the performance of companies from February 2022 to January 2023, ensuring the legitimacy and credibility of the awards.

Industry Recognition

With participation from a significant number of portfolio managers, buy-side analysts, and sell-side analysts, the 2023 Asia Pacific (Ex-Japan) Executive Team survey involved 1,608 nominated companies across 18 sectors.

Xiaomi’s success in the awards also reaffirms its position as an industry leader, respected for its financial disclosure, services, communication, and commitment to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices.

What can you say? Share your thoughts with us in the comment section!

Climate crisis drives parental decisions—HP study finds

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In a recent global study, HP has unveiled the significant impact of the climate crisis on parental decisions, ranging from everyday choices to long-term family planning. The research highlights how concerns about climate change have transformed parents’ lives and purchasing habits worldwide.

Climate Concerns Shaping Family Perspectives

According to the study, an overwhelming 91% of parents express concerns about the climate crisis, leading to tangible changes in their lifestyle choices. More than half of the respondents (53%) state that climate change has influenced their perspectives on family size, impacting their decisions to have more children.

Preference for Sustainable Companies

The research reveals that many parents favor companies that take action to address climate change, with 64% indicating a preference for sustainably sourced products. Furthermore, sustainable company practices play a significant role in the purchasing habits of 60% of parents, demonstrating their willingness to seek out environmentally friendly options.

Balancing Sustainability and Rising Costs

Despite acknowledging the rising cost of living (84%) and perceiving environmental practices as time-consuming (57%), parents remain committed to making sustainable choices. This commitment reflects a growing awareness of how decisions made within the home can impact communities and the environment.

Corporate Responsibility and Accountability

While parents take personal action, they also believe that companies have a substantial role to play in addressing climate change. Most respondents (51%) hold companies accountable for climate action, emphasizing their responsibility in driving sustainable practices.

HP’s Sustainable Impact

In alignment with its commitment to sustainability, HP has released its 22nd annual Sustainable Impact report, highlighting its progress in environmental and social goals. Notable achievements include an 18% reduction in absolute carbon footprint since 2019 and a 55% reduction in single-use plastic packaging compared to 2018. Additionally, HP has taken steps to counteract deforestation and accelerate digital equity, reaching over 21 million people with its initiatives.

Recognizing young learners’ challenges in accessing education, HP has collaborated with organizations such as Atayde Foundation and Teach for the Philippines (TFP) to bridge the digital divide. HP aims to empower students and foster digital equity through initiatives like providing learning kits in remote communities and supporting teacher development programs.

Meanwhile, with a vision to become the most sustainable and just technology company, HP has set ambitious Sustainable Impact goals in areas such as Climate Action, Human Rights, and Digital Equity. The company’s comprehensive approach includes initiatives to achieve a net-zero carbon value chain, promote a circular economy, and drive equality and empowerment globally.

Nothing Phone (2) Leaked renders hint at minor changes

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The Nothing Phone (2) renders has just been leaked by none other than @evleaks. As expected, the smartphone would still rock the unique industrial design with a glyph interface at the back that lights up.

But what’s changed?

Nothing Phone () Philippines

First, the Glyph interface at the back of the smartphone now features 11 segmented LED lights which adds more customizability and also on the front, there’s the selfie camera that is now placed at the middle of the display of the smartphone.

Nothing Phone () Philippines

Aside from that, it still has the flat frame and also the industrial design. And of course, the Nothing Phone (2) is also expected to come in black as well.

As for the other hardware information of the smartphone, unfortunately, it isn’t clear yet but we can expect a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 series chipset inside this year and also a more powerful camera.

The Nothing Phone (2) is expected to be launched soon.

Source: @evleaks

Smart outs Gilas Power 399 data plan

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Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart), the global partner for the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023, introduced Gilas Power 399, a data-packed offer for streaming all the FIBA action on the Smart LiveStream App and more.

Seamless Streaming and Daily Online Activities

As the highly anticipated FIBA Basketball World Cup approaches, taking place in Manila from August 25 to September 10, Smart is committed to providing comprehensive coverage for all basketball enthusiasts. With the Gilas Power 399 offer, fans can stream games on the Smart LiveStream App, stay connected with their favorite stars on social media, get the latest FIBA updates, and relive the best FIBA World Cup moments anytime, anywhere.

Moreover, Gilas Power 399 offers a total of 78GB worth of data, comprising 48GB for all sites and apps (18GB plus 1GB per day for 30 days) and an additional 30GB for the Smart LiveStream App (1GB per day for 30 days). All of this is available for only Php399.

Meanwhile, the 78GB data allocation of Gilas Power 399 pays homage to the year 1978 when the Philippines hosted the prestigious basketball tournament, then known as the FIBA World Championships. Through this offer, Smart celebrates the rich history and deep-rooted connection between the Philippines and FIBA.

Exclusive Registration and Limited-time Availability

Smart Prepaid subscribers can also register for Gilas Power 399 exclusively through the GigaLife App and the Maya App. This offer is available for a limited time only, so basketball fans should take advantage of this opportunity.

Own a Piece of FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 History

Smart will also be launching limited-edition Gilas Load Cards, allowing fans to own a piece of FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 history. These collectible load cards feature artwork by renowned Pinoy basketball artist and advocate Mike Swift. Known as ‘Mr. Hoops,’ Swift gained international recognition in 2020 for his awe-inspiring art tribute to Kobe and Gianna Bryant at the Tenement Court in Taguig City. The Gilas Load Cards will be available soon at the Smart Online Store, select Smart Stores, and accredited retailers nationwide.

To learn more about Smart Prepaid’s Gilas Power and other data-packed offers, visit https://smrt.ph/gilasfb.

Lenovo intros LOQ series in the Philippines

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Lenovo recently introduced its latest offering, the Lenovo LOQ series, specifically designed to provide an immersive gaming experience for new players who are eager to dive into the world of gaming.

Powerful Performance at an Affordable Price

The Lenovo LOQ series incorporates the DNA of Lenovo Legion, delivering powerful and future-proof devices without breaking the bank. With up to 135W TDP (Thermal Design Power) and 85-blade fans featuring up to 4 exhausts, the Lenovo LOQ ensures efficient heat dissipation and optimal performance during intense gaming sessions. Additionally, the inclusion of an MUX Switch and military-certified durability enhances the overall gaming experience.

Meanwhile, for those who prefer a desktop gaming experience, the Lenovo LOQ Tower is an excellent choice. The tower boasts competitive hardware specifications, including enhanced ventilation, up to the 13th Gen Intel Core i7-13700 CPU support, and the latest NVIDIA 40-Series desktop graphics. These powerful components are housed within an aesthetically pleasing chassis, providing both an immersive gaming experience and a visually appealing setup.

Premium Care and Accidental Damage Protection

Lenovo understands the importance of providing exceptional customer support. To ensure a worry-free gaming experience, the Lenovo LOQ series offers up to three years of Premium Care. This comprehensive support package includes 24/7 chat support, on-site assistance, and stress-free troubleshooting from experts. Furthermore, all Yoga and Legion devices come with three years of Accidental Damage Protection, offering coverage for even the most accident-prone users.

So, are you getting one?

Let us know what you think in the comment section!

Xiaomi 14 series specs leaked

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The alleged specs of the Xiaomi 14 series have surfaced online, as reliable tipster Digital Chat Station shared it, revealing some preliminary details about the upcoming smartphone line.

Xiaomi 13 copy

Anticipated November Debut with Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 Chipset

The Xiaomi 14 and Xiaomi 14 Pro are expected to make their debut in November, featuring the powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset. Qualcomm’s next-generation flagship System-on-Chip (SoC) is set to be unveiled at a dedicated event in late October, taking place in Maui, Hawaii. Xiaomi is poised to be one of the first smartphone brands to launch devices powered by this new chipset, promising enhanced performance and capabilities.

The Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset is also rumored to sport a groundbreaking 1+5+2 core architecture. It is expected to house a Cortex-X4 prime core alongside 5x Cortex-A720 cores and 2x Cortex-A520 cores. Hence, we could expect that it could deliver a powerful and efficient performance balance. On the graphics front, the chipset is also likely to integrate the Adreno 750 GPU. This is expected to provide significant performance gains for graphics-intensive tasks and gaming.

Battery and Charging Speeds

The Xiaomi 14 is also rumored to come equipped with a sizable 4,860mAh battery. Moreover, it is expected to support fast wired charging at 90W and wireless charging at 50W. These allow for convenient and rapid recharging options.

On the other hand, the Xiaomi 14 Pro is rumored to boast a slightly larger 5,000mAh battery, providing even more battery capacity for extended usage. Notably, it is said to support blazing-fast wired charging at 120W, ensuring swift replenishment of the battery. Additionally, the Xiaomi 14 Pro will support wireless charging at 50W, further enhancing the convenience of wireless charging technology.

So, who’s excited?

Let us know your thoughts about these leaked specs in the comment section!

Source: GSMArena

Apple Vision Pro Headset encounters manufacturing challenges, slashes shipment targets

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According to a report from The Financial Times, Apple has reportedly significantly reduced its shipment targets for the Apple Vision Pro headset. Originally expected to reach a million units per year, the revised target now stands at approximately 400,000 units for 2024.

Manufacturing complications arising from the headset‘s intricate design are cited as the main reason for the downward adjustment. The report also reveals that plans for a more affordable second-generation headset have been postponed.

Apple VIsion Pro

Complex Design and Production Challenges

The design of the Vision Pro headset is both sophisticated and intricate, presenting unique challenges during the production process. One notable bottleneck is the inclusion of the EyeSight feature, which projects the user’s eyes onto an outward-facing display. Precise calibration of the passthrough cameras, positioned beneath the EyeSight display, is required to account for variations in the curved cover glass. Additionally, the yields for the 4K micro-OLED displays, with one for each eye, are currently low.

Manufactured by Luxshare, a Chinese company known for its collaboration with Apple on other products such as AirPods and MacBook models, the Vision Pro headset’s production setbacks have had an impact on Luxshare’s stock, which experienced a decline following the news of reduced device shipments.

Apple Vision Pro Price philippines

Delays in Product Roadmap

Previously, the second-generation Vision Pro headset was expected to be introduced in 2025, encompassing both high-end and lower-end models. However, the recent report indicates that the entire product roadmap timeline has been postponed.

Luxshare reportedly increased its production capacity to accommodate the assembly of approximately 18 million headsets in the upcoming years. However, with the adjustments to Apple’s shipment targets, Luxshare’s plans may need reevaluation.

Launch Plans and Availability

The first-generation Vision Pro headset is slated for an early release next year, as confirmed by Apple. Initially, it will be exclusively available in the United States, with plans to expand sales to other countries by the end of 2024.

Stay updated for further developments regarding the Apple Vision Pro headset as Apple addresses the manufacturing challenges.

Source: 9to5mac