Laifen Smart Hair Dryers Launch in the Philippines with Fast-Drying Technology

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November 21, 2025

Laifen has officially launched in the Philippines and they are bringing a new lineup of smart, high-speed hair dryers. The brand’s Philippine debut includes three models: the Laifen Mini, Laifen SE 2, and Laifen SE Lite.

Fast-Drying Performance with Smart Temperature ControlLaifen’s hair dryers are powered by high-speed motors that reach up to 110,000 RPM, which enables quick drying while maintaining quiet operation. The Laifen Mini weighs just 299 grams and operates at 61dB, making it both lightweight and travel-friendly. It features Smart Temperature Control that monitors heat 100 times per second to protect hair from damage, while its Negative Ion Generator helps reduce frizz and boost shine.

The Laifen SE 2 offers 10 customizable styling combinations with 2 airspeeds and 5 temperature levels. Its motor spins at 108,000 RPM, generating an airspeed of 21.5 m/s, and regulates heat 80 times per second. With six layers of noise reduction, it operates at just 59dB.

Meanwhile, the Laifen SE Lite is 6mm shorter and 15% lighter than the standard SE model. It delivers 150 million negative ions to eliminate frizz and static, while Smart Temperature Control adjusts heat 50 times per second. Its six-layer noise reduction system keeps sound levels at a gentle 62dB.

Laifen Launch Offers and Availability

Laifen hair dryers are now available at discounted launch prices through the brand’s official Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok stores. Online shoppers can also receive a free comb while stocks last. As part of the launch promo, new followers can claim a PHP 100 discount voucher, and customers who purchase the Laifen SE 2 or SE Lite will receive 50% off a waterproof bag.

OPPO A6 Pro Now Available in the Philippines with AI Features, Large Battery, and Rugged Design

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Jam Ancheta

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November 21, 2025

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OPPO has officially released the OPPO A6 Pro in the Philippines. The device brings built-in AI tools, strong hardware, and long battery life. It also comes with AI Smart Office that helps users summarize documents, translate text, clean up layouts, and export ready-to-share files, while AI Studio and AI Camera offer quick cutouts, background changes, and enhanced editing for photos and social media content.

The OPPO A6 Pro features a SuperCool VC cooling system that helps dissipate heat during gaming and multitasking. The 4G variant runs on a MediaTek Helio G100, while the 5G model is powered by a Dimensity 6300 chipset. Both versions come with a 120Hz AMOLED display and AI LinkBoost 3.0 for improved signal stability, minimizing dropped calls and lag during online activities.

Durability is a major focus with the OPPO A6 Pro as it offers IP69, IP68, and IP66 water and dust resistance, plus military-grade shock protection against accidental drops. Battery capacity is one of the strongest in its class, featuring a 7,000mAh battery for the 4G variant and 6,500mAh for the 5G model. Both support 80W SUPERVOOC fast charging, capable of reaching 100% in around 50 to 60 minutes, along with reverse wired charging to power other devices.

The OPPO A6 Pro is now available in all OPPO stores nationwide and online through Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok Shop.

The OPPO A6 Pro 4G comes in Coral Pink and Lunar Titanium at PHP 15,999 for the 8GB+256GB model. The OPPO A6 Pro 5G comes in Coral Pink and Stellar Blue, priced at PHP 13,999 for 6GB+128GB and PHP 18,999 for 8GB+256GB.

Visa Enables Google Pay Support in the Philippines for Contactless Payments

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Jam Ancheta

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November 19, 2025

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Visa has officially activated Google Pay support in the Philippines, allowing Visa debit, credit, and prepaid cardholders to add their cards to Google Wallet and make secure contactless payments using their smartphones. Users can now tap to pay using their smartphones or smartwatchwes in stores, apps, and websites without using a physical card. The service launches through seven partner banks: Chinabank, EastWest Bank, GoTyme Bank, Maya Bank, RCBC, UnionBank, and Wise.

Google Pay transactions in the Philippines are powered by Visa’s tokenization technology, which replaces the actual card number with a secure digital token. Visa reports that tokenization has reduced fraud by up to 58% in Asia Pacific and continues to improve security for both shoppers and businesses.

To encourage adoption, Visa partnered with Pick Up Coffee for a limited promo where customers get a free upsize and an additional Php50 off when they pay using Google Pay.

The launch also benefits travelers, as Google Pay enables seamless payments abroad while addressing acceptance issues often experienced by tourists in the Philippines.

Digital payments now account for 57.4% of transactions nationwide, moving the country closer to its goal of a cash-lite economy.

HONOR 500 series design revealed

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Jam Ancheta

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November 15, 2025

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HONOR has officially showcased the design of its upcoming 500 series. The series comprises of both the standard and Pro models. HONOR has opened the pre-orders in China ahead of launch.

HONOR 500 Series Design

The design of the HONOR 500 and 500 Pro shares a similar look despite their different tiers. The standard model features a triple-camera setup housed in a oval island, while the Pro variant adds an extra module and slightly alters the layout.

Colour options will include Moonlight Silver, Obsidian Black, Starlight Powder and Aquamarine.

Pre-order listings in China suggest the following configurations and specs:

HONOR 500: Up to 12 GB RAM and 512 GB storage.
HONOR 500 Pro: Up to 16 GB RAM and 512 GB storage.
Camera setup: Both models are cited to feature a 200 MP main sensor.
Chipsets: The standard model reportedly uses the Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 while the Pro model is expected to use the Snapdragon 8 Elite (last-gen flagship) platform.

HONOR 500 Series Availability

Pre-orders are now live in China. HONOR is yet to publish global launch or pricing details.

Red Dead Redemption Arrives on Netflix, iOS/Android, PS5, Xbox Series & Switch 2

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Jam Ancheta

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November 15, 2025

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Red Dead Redemption from Rockstar Games is making a return. On December 2 2025, the game and its zombie-themed expansion Undead Nightmare will launch on PS5, Xbox Series S|X, Switch 2 and, mobile platforms via Netflix Games.

Red Dead Redemption Netflix: Platforms & availability

The upcoming release covers PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S including enhanced visuals, HDR support, 60 fps and up to 4K resolution. Nintendo Switch 2 supports DLSS, HDR, mouse controls and 60 fps gameplay. iOS and Android comes with with mobile-friendly controls. Netflix Games mobile version will be playable with a Netflix subscription at no additional cost. Owners of the PS4, Nintendo Switch (original) or backward-compatible Xbox One version will receive a free digital upgrade to the next-gen release.

What this version includes

The relaunch bundles the base game plus the Undead Nightmare expansion and retains bonus content from the Game-of-the-Year edition. The enhanced console versions are developed in collaboration with studios Double Eleven and Cast Iron Games.

Red Dead Redemption Netflix becomes available on December 2, 2025. The launch will happen simultaneously across multiple platforms. Mobile gamers can access the title through Netflix Games on iOS and Android devices. There’s no additional cost with an active Netflix subscription.

Console enthusiasts will find Red Dead Redemption on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S. These versions feature enhanced 4K visuals and 60fps gameplay. Nintendo Switch 2 support is also confirmed for the launch. Additionally, legacy console owners with PS4 or original Xbox One systems receive free upgrades to the next-gen versions. This multi-platform approach ensures the game reaches the widest possible audience when it launches next month.

ASUS and ROG Launch Grand Tech Fair 2025 With Big Discounts, Rebates, and Prizes

By

Jam Ancheta

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November 15, 2025

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ASUS Philippines has officially announced the ASUS ROG Grand Tech Fair 2025, it’s the company’s biggest year-end and holiday tech sale happening from November 14, 2025 to January 15, 2026. The campaign offers discounts on ASUS and ROG laptops and desktops, sales, warranty extensions, and a nationwide raffle with major prizes including a Yamaha Mio Fazzio.

Huge Deals on Laptops, Desktops, and Gaming Gear

The Grand Tech Fair covers different ASUS and ROG devices including from laptops like the Zenbook and Vivobook series to gaming machines under ROG and TUF Gaming. Users who purchase eligible models will also receive a free 1-year ASUS Premium Care Warranty Extension worth up to PHP 7,995.

The promo includes:

Zenbook, Vivobook S, and Vivobook 16 Copilot+ PCs
ROG and TUF Gaming laptops
ASUS All-in-One PCs and desktops
ROG and TUF Tower PCs

Buyers automatically earn a raffle entry for a chance to win major holiday prizes.

Raffle Prizes: Upgrades and Gadgets for the Holidays

Five winners will be selected on January 29, 2026. Prizes include:

One (1) Yamaha Mio Fazzio (PHP 93,900)
Two (2) Insta360 X5 Action Cameras (PHP 32,990 each)
Two (2) Airwheel SE3SL Smart Electric Luggage units (PHP 40,000 each)

ASUS ROG Grand Tech Fair Mall Caravan Rolls Out Nationwide

The 3-day mall caravan brings hands-on experiences, exclusive rewards, and up to PHP 5,000 in GCash rebates at select SM Cyberzone branches:

Mall Caravan Schedule

SM Mall of Asia — Nov 14–16, 2025
SM North EDSA — Nov 28–30, 2025
SM Pampanga — Dec 12–14, 2025
SM Iloilo — Dec 26–28, 2025
SM Bacolod — Jan 2–4, 2026
SM Megamall — Jan 9–11, 2026

Rebate Offers

PHP 5,000 on Zenbook, Vivobook S, Vivobook 16 Copilot+ PCs
PHP 3,000 on Vivobook S, ROG/TUF Gaming laptops (RTX 5000 series), ASUS AIOs & Desktops
PHP 1,000 on Vivobook Classic, Go, Flip, Slate, ASUS Gaming Laptops, AIOs, Desktops
Rebates also apply to gaming keyboards, mice, routers, headsets, and Mini PCs

The first 30 buyers per leg may also join a scratch-and-win promo for extra bundles.

2-Hour Flash Sales at ASUS & ROG Exclusive Stores

Shoppers should keep an eye on ASUS and ROG PH’s social pages, as 2-hour flash sales (4PM–6PM) will be activated in select stores nationwide.

Flash Sale Deals:

PHP 5,000 off Vivobook S16 Copilot+ PCs
PHP 2,000 off ASUS Gaming V16s
PHP 2,000 off ASUS V440 AIOs & V500 Desktops
PHP 1,000 off Vivobook 14s

Accessories also get big markdowns:

Up to PHP 8,000 off ROG/TUF gaming monitors
Up to PHP 6,000 off ASUS portable monitors
Up to PHP 2,600 off ROG gaming keyboards
Up to PHP 1,600 off ROG gaming mice

Holiday Deals for Every Type of User

Whether you are upgrading to a new PC, looking for a new gaming machine, or building a more powerful desktop setup, the ASUS ROG Grand Tech Fair 2025 offers strong deals for every segment.

The complete list of qualified products and promo mechanics is available on the official ASUS and ROG Philippines Facebook pages and the Grand Tech Fair 2025 microsite:
https://ph.asus.click/grandtechfair2025

Valve’s All-New Steam Machine Arrives in Early 2026: What We Know

By

Jam Ancheta

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November 13, 2025

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Valve has revealed a new version of the Steam Machine, a compact PC running on SteamOS. This is designed to be the desktop version that is 6x faster than the Steam Deck and it can run SteamOS and even use it as a desktop. The system is expected to launch in early 2026.

The Steam machine comes with a custom AMD Zen 4-based CPU and RDNA 3 GPU architecture with a small form-factor 3.8L chassis. Of course, it will support NVMe storage upgradeability and it will run SteamOS with the Proton compatibility layer for Windows game support.

The Steam Machine uses SteamOS as its base system, allowing access to the extensive game library on Steam. Since it supports Proton, users should be able to install and run many existing PC games.

Steam Machine Pricing and availability

Valve hasn’t published a final retail price yet. It is suggested that the device may aim at an entry level comparable to dedicated gaming PCs rather than premium consoles. Launch is targeted for early 2026, and availability is expected in regions where Steam hardware is already sold.

Steam Machine Specifications

CPU: Semi-custom AMD Zen 4 (6C/12T), up to 4.8GHz, 30W TDP
GPU: Semi-custom AMD RDNA3 (28 CUs), 2.45GHz max sustained clock, 110W TDP
RAM: 16GB DDR5 + 8GB GDDR6 VRAM
Storage: 512GB NVMe SSD or 2TB NVMe SSD, both with high-speed microSD card slot
Wi-Fi: 2×2 Wi-Fi 6E
Bluetooth: Bluetooth 5.3 with dedicated antenna
Steam Controller Support: Integrated 2.4GHz Steam Controller wireless adapter
DisplayPort 1.4: Up to 4K @ 240Hz or 8K @ 60Hz, supports HDR, FreeSync, and daisy-chaining
HDMI 2.0: Up to 4K @ 120Hz, supports HDR, FreeSync, and CEC
USB Ports:
- Two USB-A 3.2 Gen 1 (front)
- Two USB-A 2.0 High-speed (back)
- One USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 (back)
Networking: Gigabit Ethernet
RGB Lighting: 17 individually addressable RGB LEDs
Dimensions: 152 mm tall (148 mm without feet), 162.4 mm deep, 156 mm wide
Weight: 2.6 kg
Operating System: SteamOS 3 (Arch-based)

Apple and ISSEY MIYAKE Introduce iPhone Pocket: It’s a sock for your iPhone

By

Jam Ancheta

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November 13, 2025

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Apple has teamed up with Japanese fashion brand ISSEY MIYAKE to create the iPhone Pocket, a wearable accessory that offers a new way to carry and express your iPhone. And yes, it does look like a sock for the iPhone.

The iPhone Pocket is made using a single piece of 3D-knitted, ribbed open-structured fabric that securely holds the iPhone while allowing room for other small essentials. The flexible material adapts to the contents while maintaining a lightweight and sleek form.

Users can wear it around the neck, hold it by hand, or tie it to a bag, reflecting ISSEY MIYAKE’s signature balance between art and functionality. The design is a result of close collaboration between Apple Design Studio and MIYAKE DESIGN STUDIO, with each piece crafted in Japan.

Apple is releasing two styles of the iPhone Pocket. One with a short strap and another with a long strap, both available in carefully curated colours inspired by Apple’s device palette.

Short Strap (US $149.95)
Available in eight colours: Lemon, Mandarin, Purple, Pink, Peacock, Sapphire, Cinnamon, and Black

Long Strap (US $229.95)
Available in three colours: Sapphire, Cinnamon, and Black

The iPhone Pocket will be available starting November 14, 2025, through select Apple Stores and apple.com in regions including the U.S., UK, France, Greater China, Italy, Japan, Singapore, and South Korea.

Apple’s 2026 Mac Lineup to Include M5 and M6 Models, New Monitors, and Low-Cost MacBook

By

Jam Ancheta

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November 11, 2025

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Apple’s latest iPad Air (M) iPad (A) and MacBook Air (M) now available in Power Mac Center stores nationwide

Apple is preparing a Mac refresh roadmap for 2026, which includes new M5 and M6-powered models, updated monitors, and its first budget MacBook, according to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman.

Upcoming M5 Macs

Apple plans to release several M5-based devices next year, including the M5 Pro and M5 Max MacBook Pro models. The M5 MacBook Air, M5/M5 Pro Mac mini, and M5 Max and Ultra Mac Studio are also expected. The updates are expected to bring performance gains through Apple’s latest chip architecture and efficiency improvements for pro users.

Entry-Level MacBook in Early 2026

Apple is reportedly developing a low-cost MacBook, aiming to compete directly with Chromebooks and Windows notebooks. The new model will use a simplified design and lower-cost components, likely priced below US$1,000, making it the company’s most affordable Mac to date.

M6 Macs and OLED Displays

Beyond 2026, Apple is said to be testing M6 and M6 Pro/Max chips, which may debut in a redesigned OLED MacBook Pro as early as 2027. These models are expected to feature thinner bezels, improved power efficiency, and higher contrast displays.

New Monitors on the Way

Apple is also working on multiple external monitors, including a new Studio Display and Pro Display XDR refresh, both featuring upgraded panels and tighter integration with macOS features.

While Apple hasn’t officially confirmed the timeline, Bloomberg’s report suggests that the company’s 2026 hardware strategy will focus on expanding its Mac ecosystem.

Source: Bloomberg

Smart, Landers partner to offer exclusive rewards and shopping perks for postpaid subscribers

By

Ciara Alarcon

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November 10, 2025

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Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) has announced a new partnership with Landers Superstore to reward its postpaid subscribers with exclusive shopping privileges, including a free one-year Landers Premium Membership valued at Php700.

The partnership marks a new phase in Smart’s efforts to elevate customer rewards by offering lifestyle benefits that extend beyond connectivity. Through this collaboration, Smart Postpaid users can enjoy access to Landers’ world-class selection of local and international products, as well as entry to the retail chain’s highly anticipated Super Crazy Sale and Super Fuel Sale events.

Free Landers Premium Membership for Smart Postpaid Subscribers

Running from October 16 to December 31, 2025, the promotion is open to new Smart Postpaid subscribers signing up for Plan 999 and above, as well as existing subscribers of Plan 1999 and up, including Smart Infinity members. Existing users upgrading their postpaid plans also qualify for the exclusive offer.

Subscribers can redeem their free Landers Premium Membership either online or in person at any Landers Superstore branch nationwide. The membership will be valid for one year from the date of activation, giving users access to premium shopping perks throughout 2026.

For those who already hold an active Landers membership, Smart allows subscribers to share their voucher code with a friend or family member, extending the benefits to their loved ones.

Exclusive Discounts for Landers Members

As part of the partnership, Landers members can also enjoy an exclusive 25% discount on Smart Postpaid SIM-Only Plans 999 and above. This offer will be available during Landers’ sales blitzes in select branches, providing shoppers an additional opportunity to upgrade their mobile experience at a reduced rate.

Smart and Landers will announce the full schedule of participating stores and sales dates in the coming weeks.

Postpaid Plans with More Value and Rewards

With Smart Postpaid Plan 999 and higher, subscribers gain access to a host of valuable inclusions, including:

Up to 3x Data allocation, ideal for heavy users and content creators.
Unlimited 5G Data for 12 months in 5G-covered areas.
A complimentary Netflix Mobile subscription, perfect for on-the-go entertainment.
Instant rewards and exclusive lifestyle deals via the Smart Postpaid Perks Program.

These features complement Smart’s growing portfolio of customer-centered offers that combine digital lifestyle perks with world-class connectivity.

Smart’s Continued Push for Premium Experiences

Smart’s latest partnership with Landers underscores its ongoing mission to deliver more value to its subscribers by connecting mobile technology with premium lifestyle experiences. With Landers’ growing presence across major cities in the Philippines and Smart’s industry-leading network, the collaboration gives users a unique blend of convenience, connectivity, and everyday rewards.

For more details on how to redeem the free Landers Premium Membership and explore Smart’s postpaid offers, visit www.smart.com.ph/LandersPromo.

Promo runs until December 31, 2025. Terms and conditions apply.