Gadgets Magazine | The Philippines' First Tech-Lifestyle Magazine

The all-new Suzuki Ciaz captures hearts of test drivers

Mobility

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7 Jul 2016

The all-new Suzuki Ciaz captures hearts of test drivers

The all-new Suzuki Ciaz, launched in the country last April, has piqued the interest of thousands of car lovers who want to try the next-level comfort and road handling excellence of this subcompact sedan, prompting Suzuki Philippines to hold a test drive for bankers last May 31, 2016.

A total of 27 representatives from the leading names in the banking industry road tested the Ciaz which boasts of best-in-class fuel efficiency, a sporty yet elegant exterior design, and other advanced features.

Suzuki Philippines’ General Manager for Automobile Mr. Shuzo Hoshikura beams with pride over the apparent positive response of the market to the newest member of Suzuki’s B-segment vehicles. “Since the introduction of the all-new Ciaz in April this year, the number of inquiries and request for test drives we have been receiving about this sedan has pleasantly surprised us. With this overwhelming response, we believe that the Ciaz will be one of our bestsellers this year, and contribute significantly to the company’s continuous growth. We hope that with this model as well as all of our other best-loved vehicles, we will be able to top last year’s impressive 52% y-o-y growth,” Hoshikura said.

For more information about Suzuki Philippines and their automobiles, please visit http://suzuki.com.ph/auto/ and like them on www.facebook.com/SuzukiAutoPH, https://twitter.com/SuzukiAutoPH and follow on Instagram at @suzukiautoph.

Parade: LG Twin Wash

Archives

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7 Jul 2016

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LG’s Twin Wash allows two separate loads to be washed simultaneously with its full-sized front loading washing machine and a mini-washer in a hide-away pedestal all in one efficient cleaner.

It comes with a powerful main washer for handling larger garments. Meanwhile, its mini-washer is perfect for delicate items that require a unique wash setting.

LG’s Twin Wash comes with the company’s very own TurboWash 2.0 technology. Nozzles positioned inside the drum of the main washer spray a concentrated solution of detergent directly onto the clothes, another high pressure nozzle sprays tiny water particles through the clothes during high spin cycles, and an Inverter Direct Drive motor is attached directly to the drum, improving the machine’s efficiency and cleaning performance. This washer is also designed to fit in the space of a typical front loading washing machine so nothing is sacrificed for the added convenience.

The mini-washer and pedestal housing can be purchased separately to give current owners of LG front loading washing machines all the benefits of the Twin Wash at a fraction of the cost

Make laundry duties quicker and more convenient with this revolutionary washer!

Bridgestone Philippines embarks on new safety campaign

Mobility

Chris Noel Hidalgo

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7 Jul 2016

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With tire condition being one of the contributing factors towards road safety, Bridgestone Philippines has launched their new “Hindi Na Pwede Ang Pwede Na ‘Yan” campaign to encourage motorists to learn more about how tires affect vehicle drivability, fuel efficiency, and stopping power, among others.

“What many fail to realize is that many accidents and road mishaps would not have happened with quality tires. This is why Bridgestone hopes to educate drivers about tire importance. Go back to basics,” said Ruby Gan from Bridgestone Philippines’ marketing division.

The campaign is a series of information drives and events throughout the year, with each set to showcase the difference in performance between quality and worn-down tires, and properly inflated and under inflated tires. Additionally, in-depth discussions regarding everyone’s motoring concerns will be held.

Bridgestone’s Free Tire Check Service was also launched. Drivers can take advantage of the program by heading to any of the Bridgestone Tire Centers nationwide. The full list of participating centers can be found at www.bridgestonetires.com.ph/tire-center.

“So let’s go back to basics and educate from there,” added Gan. “Bridgestone emphasizes that the tires play a crucial role in safety, handling, and fuel economy, among many others. It is essential to have quality, well-maintained tires more than anyone can imagine, so if there’s one thing anyone shouldn’t scrimp on, they’re those black round rubbers that are in contact with the road all the time.”

For more information and videos on the Bridgestone campaigns, follow Bridgestone Philippines on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, and visit their website at www.bridgestonetires.com.ph.

Quick Look: Pioneer DDJ-RZX is here to drop the beat

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Chris Noel Hidalgo

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7 Jul 2016

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Quick Look: Pioneer DDJ-RZX is here to drop the beat

Audio brand Pioneer DJ has recently launched its new flagship DDJ-RZX 4-channel controller. It is designed to work hand in hand with the new Rekordbox Video Plus Pack, allowing jockeys to mix both audio and video with ease.

The DDJ-RZX is equipped with a trio of touch screens for viewing track information and applied effects, as well as video monitoring and control. Two XLR combo input jacks enable distortion-free mic output, with the 3-band mic EQ and mic FX letting users tune each voice. Additionally, the extensive FX unit includes Combo FX, Sampler Repeat, and Release FX, as well as the studio-quality Sound Color FX from the DJM-900NXS2 mixer. It is also a bit reminiscent of the DJ-2000NXS2 multiplayer and DJM mixer series because of its large jog wheels, multicolored performance pads, and high-quality output.

It comes packaged with license keys for Rekordbox dj, Rekordbox dvs, and Rekordbox video.

Quick Specs:

Software: Rekordbox dj
Input ports: four CD/Line (RCA); two Phono (RCA); two Mic (XLR and 1/4-inch TRS jack)
Output ports: two Master Out (XLR x 1, RCA x 1); Booth Out (1/4-inch TRS jack); two Headphone Monitor Out (1/4-inch stereo jack x 1, 3.5 mm stereo mini-jack x 1)
Other ports: Two USB Type-B
Frequency response: 20 Hz-20 kHz (USB, CD/Line, Mic1, Mic2)
Total Harmonic Distortion ratio: 0.002 percent (USB), 0.003 percent (CD/Line)
S/N ratio: 116 dB (USB), 101 dB (CD/Line), 91 dB (Phono)
Power requirements: AC 110 V to 240 V, 50 Hz/60 Hz
Power consumption: 48 W
Dimensions: 945 x 119.7 x 547 mm; 15.9 kg

P1-M prize offered in Petron Gasul “Genuine for the Win” promo

Food

Jonah Mendoza

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7 Jul 2016

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P1-M prize offered in Petron Gasul “Genuine for the Win” promo

Petron Gasulistas will have more reasons to smile starting June 15, with its “Genuine for the Win” marketing campaign, offering a grand prize for 1-million pesos for a lucky Petron Gasul buyer.

To join the raffle, just check the white safety seal of your 2.7kgs, 7kgs or 11kgs Petron Gasul and check the laser-printed code. Text PETRONGASUL <space> <11-digit Safety Seal code> to 2600 for all networks. Keep the white safety seal at a secure location, as you will need to present this to redeem your prize in case you win. Prizes at stake include P100 load and Puregold gift certificates worth P1000 daily, iPhones, 40-inch LED TVs, and P1-million in the grand draw. The promo runs until September 15, 2016.

The white safety seal with the laser-printed code is Petron’s assurance that you are getting the genuine Petron Gasul. This gold standard of Petron in kitchen LPG has clean-burning true-blue flame, at the right quantity, and packaged in cylinders that meet stringent safety standards. It also leads in customer service with free home delivery and installation.

Like their Facebook page (facebook.com/PetronGasulPH) to keep posted on promo details and updates, and also to find out the delivery number and address of your nearest authorized Petron Gasul dealer. The delivery hotline is 737-8000 in Metro Manila.

Through this “Genuine for the Win” promo, you can be a millionaire just by being a segurista. Ang segurista, Petron Gasulista!

Per DTI FTEB SPD Permit No. 8619 series of 2016.

Online Portal Carmudi offers “Lowest Price Guarantee”

Mobility

Jonah Mendoza

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5 Jul 2016

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Online Portal Carmudi offers “Lowest Price Guarantee”

Change is coming. That’s something we could all use, and—hopefully—one of those changes will be a significant and perceptible reduction of Metro Manila’s horrendous round-the-clock traffic.

It sounds great, but one of the solutions we’ve heard involves scrapping the MMDA’s current number-coding scheme under its Unified Vehicular Volume Reduction Program, in favour of the odd-even scheme which theoretically reduces the number of vehicles plying major thoroughfares by 50-percent.

Those with more than one vehicle may not be affected; but those with only one may see it as a compelling reason to invest in a second vehicle, especially if you drive your family around every day.

The search for a vehicle—whether it is that aspirational first brand-new vehicle, or one to alternate with on even—(or odd) numbered days—is as easy as tapping a few buttons on your keyboard. Carmudi.com.ph has over 25,000 vehicles—new and used—in its classified listings, with something for everyone.

Interested in a new car? Don’t waste fuel and time travelling from one showroom to another. With Carmudi’s comprehensive photo and technical data portfolios, you can find the best vehicle for you in the comfort of your home or office, without the annoying wait and sales talk. Better still, with Carmudi’s “Lowest Price Guarantee” policy, you can be assured that you won’t find a lower purchase price for your dream vehicle, anywhere else.

How does Carmudi do it? By partnering with a network of proven and trusted financial institutions and new-car dealers, Carmudi can determine in real-time who is selling what you need at the lowest price. Find an even lower price elsewhere? No worries, Carmudi will match that price. Guaranteed. Cars are already expensive; with Carmudi’s Lowest Price Guarantee, you can save big on acquisition cost, freeing up your budget for other things like wheels or a roof rack, or even for your dream out-of-town getaway.

Stop wasting time running around in circles. With Carmudi’s lowest-price, one-stop-shop virtual showroom, change isn’t just coming. It’s just a click away.

To know more about Carmudi’s Lowest Price Guarantee, visit www.carmudi.com.ph/lowestprice/.

HP launches Elite enterprise devices

Archives

Chris Noel Hidalgo

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5 Jul 2016

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HP has unveiled its newest enterprise-oriented Elite devices, namely the EliteBook Folio, Elite X2, and Elite X3. An ultrabook, a tablet, and a phablet, respectively, these come packed with powerful innards and innovative features that will allow today’s workforce to work from anywhere, anytime with the utmost ease, security, and reliability.

EliteBook Folio

The thinnest and lightest laptop HP has ever produced, the EliteBook Folio comes in at 12.4 mm thin and around 1 kg in heft, with a durable body crafted out of polished diamond-cut CNC aluminum. It has passed military standard tests and has went through 120,00 hours of HP’s Total Test Process.

Its 180 degree piano hinge clamshell form factor opens up to reveal an edge-to-edge 12.5 inch screen with up to 4K resolution, as well as a full-size HP Premium Keyboard with a Windows 10 gesture-enabled clickpad and two Thunderbolt compatible USB-C ports. Inside is a sixth generation Intel Core M vPro processor tuned for maximum performance and battery life.

Quick Specs:

Display: up to 12.5 inch touch display; up to 4K resolution
Operating System: Windows 10 Pro
Processor: Intel Core M vPro
Graphics: Intel HD Graphics
Memory: up to 8 GB LPDDR3
Storage: up to 256 GB SSD
Networking: Wi-Fi 802.11a/b/g/n/ac (2×2), Bluetooth 4.2
Battery: up to 4-cell 38 Whr Li-Po; up to 10 hours battery life
I/O: Two USB-C with Thunderbolt 3 support
Dimensions: up to 11.5 x 8.23 x 0.49 inches; 1 kg
Accessories: HP USB-C Travel Dock

Elite X2 1012

Take the EliteBook Folio and design it so that the screen detaches from the keyboard. That’s essentially what the Elite X2 1012 is. It boasts almost the same innards, though this time with audio from Bang and Olufsen and HP Noise Reduction Software for the mic. It also features a 12 inch anti-glare HD screen with a 3:2 aspect ratio protected with Corning Gorilla Glass 4. Durability is handled by a CNC aluminum body with two grades of aluminum alloy.

Moreover, it is compatible with various accessories, including the HP Active Pen with App Launch stylus, HP Advanced Keyboard with NFC sensor and built-in smart card reader, HP Elite USB-C Docking Station for dual 2K displays, HP Elite Thunderbolt 65 W Dock for dual 4K displays, and the HP Advanced Wireless Docking Station. A thin and light HP Travel Keyboard is included out of the box. It sells for PHP 59,990.

Quick Specs:

Display: up to 12 inch anti-glare HD IPS touchscreen display with Corning Gorilla Glass 4; 3:2 aspect ratio
Operating System: Windows 10 Pro
Processor: Intel Core M vPro
Graphics: Intel HD Graphics
Memory: up to 8 GB LPDDR3
Storage: up to 256 GB SSD
Audio: Tuned by Bang and Olufsen; HP Noise Reduction software
Networking: Wi-Fi 802.11a/b/g/n/ac (2×2), Bluetooth 4.2, Qualcomm Snapdragon X5 LTE
Battery: up to 4-cell 40 Whr Li-Po
I/O: USB-A and Thunderbolt 3
Dimensions: up to 11.8 x 8.4 x 0.6 inches; 1.27 kg
Others: Fingerprint reader
Accessories: HP Active Pen, HP Advanced Keyboard, HP Travel Keyboard, HP Elite USB-C Docking Station, HP Elite Thunderbolt 65 W Dock, HP Advanced Wireless Docking Station
Price: PHP 59,990

Elite X3

HP designed the Elite X3 to be the core of its user’s working life, being able to function not only as a smartphone, but also as a desktop and a portable laptop if need be. Powered by a quad-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 820 processor, 4 GB RAM, 4150 mAh battery, and with a 5.96 inch Quad HD AMOLED display with Corning Gorilla Glass 4, 16 and 8 MP cameras, and Windows 10 Mobile, the Elite X3 has more than enough to run through daily tasks.

Its “desktopness” is courtesy of Microsoft’s Continuum feature which allows it to run a watered-down version of Windows 10 when connected to the HP Desk Dock, monitor, keyboard, and mouse. For those who are out and about but need more screen space, a separately bought Lap Dock with its own screen, keyboard, and ports—but with no internal storage—can connect to the Elite X3 and use its resources via Continuum. It is set to be available in Q3 of this year.

Quick Specs:

Processor: Quad-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 820 @ 2.15 GHz
GPU: Adreno 530
RAM: 4 GB RAM
Memory: 64 GB internal storage, microSD expandable up to 2 TB
Display: 5.96 inch Quad HD AMOLED display protected with Corning Gorilla Glass 4; 2560 x 1440 resolution
Cameras: 16 MP rear; 8 MP front
Battery: 4150 mAh
Operating System: Windows 10 Mobile
Connections: dual SIM; 4G LTE; WiFi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac; Bluetooth 4.0; GPS; A-GPS; NFC; USB-C
Dimensions: 161.8 x 83.5 x 7.8 mm; 195 g
Others: Microsoft Continuum, Iris Scanner, Bang and Olufsen speakers, IP67-certified
Accessories: Desk Dock (bundled), Lap Dock (sold separately)

Quick Look: Tudor Heritage Black Bay Bronze

Archives

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5 Jul 2016

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Quick Look: Tudor Heritage Black Bay Bronze

Equipped with a classy look and trusty Tudor technology, you’ve got a watch that’s bound to attract gazes in the Heritage Black Bay Bronze. The Heritage Black Bay Bronze is a diver’s watch powered by Tudor’s very own calibre MT5601–a variation of the first ever Tudor in-house base movement launched in 2015.

With the Tudor calibre MT5601 built right into the watch, robust and precise mechanical timekeeping in all situations and dependability is guaranteed. Some of the many features that come along with the calibre MT5601 are hour, minute, and second functions. Its other notable features include a “weekend proof” 70-hour power reserve as well as an antimagnetic, high precision silicon balance spring. The watch is diver certified up to 200 meters and comes with all the fancy add-ons for failsafe functional performance.

Housing the Heritage Black Bay Bronze is a 43mm in diameter case made of aluminium bronze. This is an alloy often used in naval engineering for parts submerged for long amounts of time and because of its exceptional anti-corrosion properties. The choice of bronze is, in essence, a tribute to the long standing relationship between Tudor and some of the largest navies in the world. Moreover, bronze is a metal that can subtly change appearance depending on the conditions it is subjected to.

The bronze alloy in this watch allows for the development of a patina that is controlled and eventually stabilizing to a dark chocolate tone unique to each watch and depending on the lifestyle of its owner.

Specifications:

Case:bronze-coloured PVD-treated steel case back, 43 mm, satin finish
Bezel: Bronze unidirectional rotatable bezel with disc in matt brown anodised aluminium
Movement: MT5601, Manufacture TUDOR (COSC); Self-winding mechanical movement with bidirectional rotor system
Power Reserve: approximately 70 hours
Winding Crown: bronze screw-down winding crown adorned with an engraved TUDOR rose
Dial: Brown, domed
Crystal: domed sapphire crystal
Waterproof: up to 200 m (660 ft)
Bracelet: Aged leather strap with bronze buckle, additional fabric strap with bronze buckle included in the box

Acer brings Predator gaming lineup to local shores

Archives

Chris Noel Hidalgo

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4 Jul 2016

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Acer brings Predator gaming lineup to local shores

While Acer’s Predator gaming brand has been in the international arena for quite some time now, they’ve only recently brought it into the country. Their initial offerings include the Predator 15 gaming notebook, Predator X34 curved gaming monitor, Predator G3 desktop tower, Predator G1 compact tower, Predator Z650 projector, and the Predator 8 gaming tablet.

Predator 15 Gaming Notebook

The Predator 15 packs true gaming-grade specs in a fierce looking body. Its design includes sharp angles accentuated by red accents all throughout, making its thermal rib design a real eye-catcher. Its Predator ProZone full keyboard sports customizable backlighting as well as easy-to-see WASD and arrow keys and dedicated macro buttons for better gaming control. Meanwhile, its display is a 15 inch beaut that has up to 4K resolution.

Its innards include an up to an Intel Skylake Core i7 processor, up to an Nvidia GTX 980M graphics card, up to 64 GB of DDR4 RAM, up to 1 TB HDD and 512 GB SSD storage, and up to an 8-cell Li-Ion battery. It also boasts Predator-exclusive features such as FrostCore cooling (swaps optical drive for custom fan cooler), Killer DoubleShot Pro bandwidth optimizer, SoundPound 4.2 audio driver, and DustDefender rear exhaust. The base model sells for PHP 69,995.

Quick Specs:

Display: up to 15.6 inch 4K display
Operating System: Windows 10 Home 64-bit
Processor: Intel Core i7-6700HQ @ 2.6 GHz
Graphics: Up to Nvidia GeForce GTX 980M 8 GB
Memory: up to 64 GB DDR4 SDRAM
Storage: up to 1 TB HDD and up to 512 GB SSD
Networking: Wi-Fi 802.11ac and Gigabit Ethernet with Killer DoubleShot Pro
Audio: Predator SoundPound
Cooling: Predator FrostCore
Battery: up to 8-cell Li-Ion
I/O: SD card reader; Blu-ray writer; HDMI; DisplayPort; Thunderbolt 3; four USB 3.0; USB-C; RJ-45
Dimensions: 391 x 299.72 x 38.61 mm; 3.6 kg
Price: Starts at PHP 69,995

Predator X34 Gaming Monitor

Claiming the title of “world’s first curved gaming monitor,” the Predator X34 comes in with a 34 inch diagonal with a 21:9 aspect ratio and Ultrawide Quad HD resolution of 3440 x 1440. While it comes with a standard 60 Hz refresh rate out of the box, the monitor itself can be overclocked up to 100 Hz, with tearing and screen artifacting prevented through Nvidia G-Sync technology. The Predator X34 also boasts of other features, including Flicker-less Technology; GameView color adjuster; ZeroFrame design for seamless multimonitor setups; and UnderGlow lighting for additional bling. Two 7 W DTS speakers are also on board. It is priced at PHP 64,980.

Display: 34 inch Quad HD Ultrawide 100 Hz IPS LED panel with 21:9 aspect ratio; 3800 mm curve radius
Features: Flicker-less, Nvidia G-Sync, GameView, UnderGlow lighting, ZeroFrame design, two 7 W DTS Speakers
Response time: 4 ms
Brightness: 300 cd/m2
Contrast Ratio: 100,000,000:1
Ports: DisplayPort; HDMI
Power Consumption: 54 W (in use), 0.5 W (standby), and 0.4 W (off)
Stand: -5/35 degree tilt
Price: PHP 64,980

Predator G3 Gaming Desktop

The Predator G3 is a compelling pre-built desktop, with up to an Intel Core i7-6700 quad-core processor, up to an Nvidia GeForce GTX 970, up to 64 GB of DDR4 memory, and up to a 3 TB HDD. Its innards are easily upgradeable thanks to Easy-Swap expansion bays at the front and standard slots on the inside. It also boasts of Sound Blaster Cinema 2 drivers for great audio outputs as well as a front-mounted headset cradle for your pair of cans. The base model sells for PHP 59,999.

Quick Specs:

Processor: up to an Intel Core i7-6700 processor @ 3.4 GHz
Graphics: up to an Nvidia GeForce GTX 970
Memory: up to 64 GB DDR4 @ 2133 MHz
Storage: up to 3 TB HDD
Networking: Wi-Fi 802.11 ac, Bluetooth, Gigabit Ethernet
Price: Starts at PHP 59,999

Predator G1 Gaming Desktop

If the G3 is too large for you, then the itty-bitty Predator G1 may be more your style. Arriving in a mere 16 liter enclosure, the G1 nevertheless manages to pack the same burly innards as its bigger brother. It also features sound-reactive lighting in the front panel, Killer DoubleShot Pro bandwidth optimization, and a USB 3.1 Gen 2 Type-C port.

Quick Specs:

Processor: up to an Intel Core i7-6700 processor @ 3.4 GHz
Graphics: up to an Nvidia GeForce GTX 980 Ti
Memory: up to 64 GB DDR4 @ 2133 MHz
Storage: up to 4 TB HDD and up to 512 GB SSD
Networking: Wi-Fi 802.11 ac, Bluetooth, Gigabit Ethernet

Predator Z650 Gaming Projector

The Predator Z650 is a gaming (yes, gaming) projector packed with enough features to actually support that claim. First, it features Game Auto Mode which analyzes content in real time and automatically adjusts the projector’s settings to enhance it.. Second is Bluetooth-capable dual 10 W DTS Sound speakers for hassle-free audio. Third is a wide throw ratio of 100 inches at 1.5 meters for optimal image size even in a small space. And fourth is wireless and lossless 1080pl streaming. It has a PHP 78,990 price tag.

Quick Specs:

Resolution: 1920 x 1080; 16:9 aspect ratio
Color Gamut: sRGB 100 percent coverage
Contrast: 20,000:1
Luminous Flux: 2200/1760 (depends on mode)
Lamp Life: Up to 6,000 hours
Noise level: Up to 33 dBA
Connectivity: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, VGA, HDMI, MHL, mini USB, RCA, S-Video
Throw size:100 inches at 1.5 meters
Speakers: Two 10 W stereo speakers
Features: Dark and Bright FPS modes; Custom Splash Screen; WirelessHD streaming; Hidden Dongle design; Bluetooth Audio; DTS Sound; Color Purity
Weight: 3.4 kg
Price: PHP 78,990

Predator 8 Gaming Tablet

Designed for those looking for an ultra portable yet powerful device, the Predator 8 packs an 8 inch Full HD screen, four powerful speakers, and dual haptic feedback to give users unmatched gaming experiences. It is tagged at PHP 17,990.

Quick Specs:

Processor: Quad-core Intel Atom x7-Z8700 processor @ up to 2.4 GHz
GPU: Intel HD Graphics
RAM: 2 GB RAM
Memory: 32 GB internal storage, microSD expandable up to 128 GB
Display: 8 inch Full HD display
Cameras: 5 MP rear; 2 MP front
Battery: 4420 mAh Li-Po
Operating System: Android Lollipop 5.1
Features: Four Dolby Audio speakers with built-in digital microphone; Predator Quadio; Predator TacSense dual haptic feedback; Predator ColorBlast visuals
Price: PHP 17,990

Petron, Honda cars forge partnership for road safety, fuel efficiency

Mobility

Jonah Mendoza

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4 Jul 2016

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Petron, Honda cars forge partnership for road safety, fuel efficiency

With a common goal to promote road safety and fuel efficiency, industry leaders Petron Corporation and Honda Cars Philippines Inc. (HCPI) have entered into a partnership to further enhance their promotional efforts and customer relations programs.

Honda has committed to support Petron Lakbay Alalay, the longest-running motorist assistance program in the country. During long holiday weekends when many motorists hit the expressways and head out to nearby vacation destinations, Honda car mechanics will be stationed at strategically-located Petron Lakbay Alalay stations to provide roadside assistance to Honda car owners. In a similar initiative, the Honda Emergency Assistance Teams (HEAT) are also deployed by 24 Honda dealerships nationwide as part of their public service and road safety advocacy.

In the recently-concluded DOE Euro 4 Fuel Economy Run 2016, powered by Petron XCS, the eight Honda vehicles achieved outstanding fuel economy ratings averaging 25.1 km/L, and the Honda Jazz 1.5 VX CVT delivering the best Honda performance recording 28.6 km/L.

In anticipation of the government mandate requiring all fuels and vehicles to be Euro 4 compliant by January 2016, Petron introduced its Euro 4 gasolines last June 2015, followed by Euro 4 diesels in October 2015. Similarly, Honda was among the first car manufacturers to obtain Euro 4 certification for its local vehicle line-up, starting with the Honda City last August 2015. All Honda vehicles sold in the Philippines were certified as Euro 4 compliant by September 2015.

Petron was the first local oil company to produce a full range of gasoline and diesel variants that meet Euro 4 standards. Petron Euro 4 fuels deliver TriActiv advantages—better engine protection, better mileage, and better power—to optimize the performance of Honda’s technologically-advanced and fuel-efficient engines developed under its Earth Dreams Technology. A number of marathon fuel economy runs performed by both companies confirm that Petron Euro 4 fuels are the best match for various Honda car models.

Petron and Honda have also agreed to partner in more fuel economy runs as part of their shared advocacy in promoting fuel efficient driving habits among motorists.

Recently, “Honda’s Gas Up to Summer” dealer promotion, ran from April 6-30, 2016, at all Honda car dealers nationwide. After each inquiry, test drive, reservation, or sale, customers were given a corresponding number of raffle coupons for a chance to win pre-loaded Petron Value Cards. The raffle draw was held last May 13, to pick out 100 winners of Petron Value Cards pre-loaded with P50,000, P20,000, P10,000, P5,000 or P2,000 worth of points.

Plantronics launches wireless and gaming earwear

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Chris Noel Hidalgo

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4 Jul 2016

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Plantronics launches wireless and gaming earwear

Plantronics recently launched five new products—the Voyager 5200, BackBeat Go 3, and three RIG 500 gaming headets.

Voyager 5200

The Voyager 5200 is an in-ear bluetooth headset designed for clear-cut communication wherever the user may be. It features four-mic noise cancelling and a proprietary DSP to cancel unwanted ambient noise; six layers of WindSmart technology and HD Voice Clarity so your voice will come across clearer; dedicated voice control button; smart sensor technology; audio alerts, called ID, and voice answer; and sweatproof nano-coating. An optional charging case also provides up to 14 hours of recharging. It sells for PHP 5,599

Quick Specs:

Talk/standby time: Up to seven hours/nine days
Noise cancelling: Four-mic active digital signal processing; internal, adaptive 20-band equalizer, acoustic echo cancellation, and sidetone detection; WindSmart technology
Multipoint technology : Connects to two phones and answers calls from either one
Bluetooth: v4.1; A2DP; PBAP; AVRCP; Wideband HFP Profile 1.6 and HSP Profile 1.2; up to 30 meters range
Moisture Protection: Sweatproof nano-coating
Battery type: Rechargeable, non-replaceable Li-Po; 90 minutes for full charge
Charge connector: MicroUSB
Weight: 20 g
Price: PHP 5,599

BackBeat Go 3

Meanwhile, the BackBeat Go 3 is a pair of wireless in-ear buds that promises crisp audio and a comfortable listening experience with its custom drivers and specially designed eartips. Like the Voyager 5200 it has sweatproof nano coating and an optional charging case that provides up to 13 hours of additional power.

Quick Specs

Talk/standby time: Up to 6.5 hours/14 days
Drivers: 6 mm custom dynamic drivers with HQ custom SBC codec; 20 db passive noice reduction
Frequency Response: 20-20,000 Hz
Total Harmonic Distortion: <3 percent
Sensitivity: 102 dBspl/mW @ 1 kHz
Noise reduction: MEMS microphone with digital signal processing and full duplex echo noise reduction
Bluetooth: v3.0; A2DP 1.2; AVRCP v1.5; Wideband audio HFP v1.7, HSP v1.1; up to 10 meters range
Moisture protiection: Sweatproof nano-coating
Battery type: Rechargeable, non-replaceable Li-Po; 2.5 hours for full charge
Charge connector: MicroUSB
Weight: 19 g
Price: PHP 4,699; PHP 6,099 with charging case

RIG 500, RIG 500HD, and RIG 500E

Arranged according to prices of PHP 2,995, PHP 3,795, and PHP 6,995, the RIG 500, RIG 500HD, and RIG 500E are gaming over-ears that feature dynamic 40 mm drivers and noise cancelling boom mics for superb in-game audio and crystal clear communication with teammates.While they all feature acoustic-isolating earcups with memory foam, the RIG 500E has optional vented earcups for better comfort during marathon sessions. Lastly, both the 500HD and 500E both feature Dolby 7.1 audio support to give users a complete 360 degree aural snapshot of the battlefield.

Quick Specs:

Mic frequency response: 100 Hz to 10 kHz
Mic sensitivity:-45 dBV/Pa
Mic signal-to-noise ratio: >42 dB
Mic pick-up pattern: Uni-directional
Headphone weight: 200 grams
Headphone frequency response: 20 Hz to 20 kHz
Headphone impedance: 32 ohms
Headphone sensitivity: 111 dBSPL/V (RIG 500); 110 BSPL/V (RIG 500HD); 110 BSPL/V (RIG 500E vented earcups); 113 dBSPL/V (RIG 500E isolating earcups)
Headphone maximum input power: 40 mW
Headphone drivers: Dynamic 40 mm
Headphone cable connector: Fixed 1.5 m cable with 3.5 mm 4-pole plus 3.5 mm split mic/speaker y-adapter (RIG 500); 2 m USB (RIG 500HD); USB and 3.5 mm (RIG 500E)
Prices: PHP 2,995 (RIG 500); PHP 3,795 (RIG 500HD); and PHP 6,995 (RIG 500E)

Globe Studios and Globe Live Officially Launched

Technology News

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3 Jul 2016

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Globe Studios and Globe Live Officially Launched

Globe Telecom is shaking up the landscape of Philippine entertainment with the creation of Globe Studios and Globe Live which are designed to produce original shows, live events, and engaging world-class content that are fit for today’s discerning customers.

The telco also revealed its line-up of new international content partners and improved broadband plans for a complete and immersive entertainment lifestyle.

Nowadays, dramas and movies are no longer confined to television and cinema as they can already be shared through social media via mobile phones. Globe Studios recognizes this and thus, brings the next generation of entertainment to mobile with original video productions from top film directors such as Erik Matti, Paul Soriano, Quark Henares, Dan Villegas, Sigrid Bernardo, Joyce Bernal, and Lav Diaz.Globe Studios is backed by local and Asian media houses such as Viva Films, Reality Entertainment, Quantum Films, Spring Films and Astro of Malaysia.

On the other hand, due to the rising clamor towards personalization, another challenge is how to deliver the most engaging and creative events that will satisfy customers. Globe Live responds to this demand by leveraging on Globe Telecom’s wide experience in the live events industry to elevate production quality and at the same time, tap the wide distribution coverage of Globe to promote and assemble events that are of international size and quality.

Globe Live’s first foray in the theatrical scene is the staging of Green Day’s American Idiot, a Philippine production of the hit Broadway musical. Produced together with 9 Works Theatrical, American Idiot will be held at the new Globe Iconic Store in Bonifacio High Street Amphitheater in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig which features two massive Times Square-like LED walls in a unique outdoor setup to accommodate thousands of people. American Idiot is composed of a star-studded talent roster headlined by Basti Artadi of Wolfgang, Miggy Chavez of Chicosci, former Rivermaya vocalists Jason Fernandez and Norby David, and veteran thespian Nel Gomez. The show is set to run from June 24until July 10, 2016.

New Content Partners

On top of original productions, Globe continues to tie up with international entertainment companies to add to its existing content providers such as Spotify, HOOQ and NBA.

Globe is proud to announce that it is the first mobile and broadband Philippine partner of the foremost video streaming service Netflix which boasts of over 81 million members in over 190 countries who are enjoying more than 125 million hours of TV shows and movies per day, including original series, documentaries and feature films. Members can watch as much as they want, anytime, anywhere, on nearly any internet-connected screen. Netflix will be available to Globe customers via their mobile or broadband service.

With the recent launch of Disney Mobile, Disney and Globe complete the entertainment experience with the launch of the Disney Channel Apps – Disney Channel, Disney XD, and Disney Junior. The number 1 TV network for kids and families in the Philippines is now available for as a video streaming service that offers more than 100 video-on-demand (VOD) full episodes and live streaming of Disney Channels.

The world of sports is also enhanced with the Sports Illustrated App, featuring the latest in-depth exclusive news coverage, and live American sports programming of basketball, the NFL, NHL, ESports and much more. Additional content from SI sites FanSided and SI Kids targets millennials and younger mobile demographics. As one of the most established and respected sports media brands in the world, Sports Illustrated TV channels reach an estimated 29 million homes across 12 Asian markets .

Soon, Malaysian media powerhouse Astro will also give Filipino gaming fans access to eGG Network or Every Good Game, Southeast Asia’s first dedicated 24/7 e-Sports network. E-Sportsfans will beable to watch tournaments like League of Legends, Dota 2, Counter Strike: Global Offensive, and many more via Globe. Globe and Astro are working on more exciting surprises to give gaming fans a wonderful experience.

Dialing up the fun for Globe customers is Cartoon Network, this year’s current number 5 channel across all genres in the Philippines. Apps created by the Turner-owned brand will soon be available including an upgraded and authenticated version of Cartoon Network Watch and Play and Cartoon Network Anything. They both host a stack of engaging content from well-loved cartoons such as Adventure Time, The Amazing World of Gumball, Ben 10, The Powerpuff Girls, and We Bare Bears. For the first time in PH, a live stream of the channel will be exclusively available to a non-TV audience. The apps also offer a selection of awesome video clips and interactive games and activities to keep the whole family entertained.

Moreover, the popular singing app Sing! bySmule, brings the love of Pinoys for Karaoke with more than 500,000 songs to choose from. It also allows users to record a video duet with their favorite artists like Jessie Jand Jason Derulo and share it with a global audience.

New customizable plans from Globe Broadband

Globe Broadband now brings customizable plans where families can create their own packages to bring Wonderful into their homes: a) POWER-UP with internet speeds and data allowance options; b)ENJOY their internet through exclusive devices and access to the world’s greatest movies, TV shows, concerts, games& songs; c) and EXTEND the fun with boosters that further improve the overall experience in the home.

Globe Broadband has also collaborated with leading technology and device partners to complete the package: Samsung and TCL for smart HD TVs; Bose (speakers) and Harman Kardon(headphones); Google Chromecast (streaming device) and Sony Playstation (gaming console); and Airties (WiFi mesh), Belkin and Giraffe (security cameras).All these, for an affordable additional fee on top of the monthly bill, over 24 months.

With all these, Globe welcomes the Filipino family to come Home to Wonderful.

Parade: Energizer Hard Case Professional LED Task Light

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3 Jul 2016

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Parade: Energizer Hard Case Professional LED Task Light

Energizer Philippines’ Hard Case Professional LED Task Light can make work lighter and easier with its dependable built and functionalities.

On-site or in the field, this flashlight’s rugged dependability combined with innovative LED technology offers you the best lighting you’ll ever need. The Energizer Hard Case LED Task Light has high and low mode buttons that will allow you to control its runtime and brightness. This means you can enjoy six times brighter and two times longer beam distance when it is called for.

Meanwhile, its low power mode lets you enjoy superb lighting power for up to 60 hours, while its high power mode brightness can illuminate for up to 10 hours. It also comes with a brightness of 30 lumens for low mode and up to 125 lumens for high mode, plus its beam distance goes as far as 90 meters.

What’s more, it is built with rugged ABS, steel, and rubber that enable you to maximize your work efficiency without worrying about its durability. This is proven by its shatterproof lens that can withstand breakage and survive drops from heights of up to seven meters. It is guaranteed weatherproof, making it the perfect companion even for sunny or rainy seasons. For easy usage, the Energizer Hard Case Professional LED Task Light is also designed with large soft push buttons.

This tough and reliable product is available in Ace Hardware, Handyman, True Value, Handyman, DIY, and other leading hardware stores nationwide.

Aspect Software Appoints ASEAN Leaders

Technology News

Chris Noel Hidalgo

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2 Jul 2016

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Aspect Software, a provider of fully-integrated consumer engagement, workforce optimization, and back-office solutions is bolstering its ASEAN presence by filling in key roles with tried and tested large-scale managers, namely Sanjay Gupta, Shilpi Puri, and Richard Loberas.

“People are the foundation of everything we have achieved and everything we will achieve. As a company, we place the highest value on people and leaderships. We remain committed to work, serve, and make the difference for our customers and partners. Sanjay, Richard, and Shilpi are top talents who have leaned in, stepped up, and helped make the difference with their proven leadership capabilities and expertise, while embracing our core values and culture,” said Jagan Narendran, Aspect Software senior vice president for Asia Pacific and Middle East.

“As we build on our market momentum as a leading customer experience software provider and expand the footprint of our market-leading cloud portfolio in Asia Pacific with our strategic alliance partners, I am confident that Sanjay’s dedication and experience in this industry, coupled with his proven execution capabilities, will bolster our Aspect Cloud growth in the region,” added Narendran.

He continued, “As our Asia Pacific go-to market is mainly indirect, we plan to further strengthen our channel ecosystem and are confident that this will provide further inroads and revenue growth opportunities for Aspect. In recognition of Shilpi Puri’s excellent work in engaging with existing partners and being instrumental in bringing onboard new partners and important alliances, I am delighted to announce her promotion to the role of senior director, strategic alliances and partnerships for Asia Pacific and MIddle East.

“ASEAN continues to be an important market for us in Asia Pacific, and to allow for dedicated focus, I am pleased to appoint Richard Loberas as head of sales for ASEAN and Korea. Richard has been a consistent performer and will further build upon our ASEAN growth momentum,” Narendran ended.

AWS IoT HackDay in Singapore 2016

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1 Jul 2016

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The Internet of Things (IoT) is well on its way, bringing with it simultaneous streams of data from internet-connected devices the world over to the cloud. To prep enterprises on the challenges that will come with the rise of this technological revolution, Amazon Web Services (AWS) created the annual IoT Hack Day.

Various enterprise teams participated in the second year of the ASEAN AWS IoT Hack Day in Singapore. On this day-long education and hackathon event, teams are tasked to build smart, AWS-powered cloud-connected device prototypes that set the ground for a smarter digital age.

What is Amazon Web Services?

If you missed our Amazon Web Services online article release or didn’t get to see the feature we made in the last issue, we’ll be more than happy to fill you in.

AWS launched in 2006 and officially began offering developer customers access to web services—now widely known as cloud computing—based on Amazon’s own back-end technology platform. It now powers more than a million of active customer organizations ranging from enterprise, government, and startup businesses, in 190 countries around the world.

In this digital age where cloud computing has become the new normal, compared to the costly traditional IT model infrastructures where one needs R&D expertise to operate, AWS is rather a highly reliable, scalable, and low-cost infrastructure platform in the cloud that is easy to understand. In AWS, organizations have a database that’s simply adaptable and can efficiently handle continuous streams of data without having to wrestle with hardware server complicacies.

AWS also has the largest and widest service portfolio to accurately serve the requirements of each customer segment. The growing AWS platform includes more than 70 different services that range from computing power, storage, content delivery, database, analytics, application services, management and deployment, networking, among many others.

AWS IoT Platform

AWS IoT is among Amazon’s many dynamic services that can connect a generous amount of devices to AWS so that they can intermingle with applications and other devices. It is a secure platform that allows bi-directional communication between internet-connected things and the AWS cloud. AWS IoT enables users to manage, process, and analyse collected data from connected devices and act upon it. Users of this platform are also able to remotely keep track of data-generated by these connected devices from their phones or tablets through the use of applications.

This service is easy to manage and provides ample flexibility through AWS services like AWS Lambda, Amazon Kinesis, Amazon S3, Amazon Machine Learning, Amazon DynamoDB, Amazon CloudWatch, AWS CloudTrail, and Amazon Elasticsearch Service with built-in Kibana integration, to build IoT applications.

IoT Hack Day Teams

Teams that participated in this year’s ASEAN Hack Day consisted of self-employed, startup, SMB, enterprise, educational institution, and non-profit organizations who have at least basic knowledge of AWS Cloud services and have prior experience with IoT devices.

During the event, the 14 competing teams were able to showcase the effectiveness of AWS Cloud services in the IoT age through their creative connected-device prototypes. Making use of supplied sensors, Intel Edison board—an ultra-small computing platform, C.H.I.P. and Amazon’s Alexa, we witnessed quite a lot of workable and creative IoT concepts and solutions given a restricted amount of time.

Each connected-device prototypes are intended to provide solutions for three categories: healthcare, transport, and lifestyle. Among the standout transport solution entries were from: Transport Transponders, a passenger notification service for public transportation which will alert bus drivers of commuters along bus stops; Reefer Connect, a cloud-connected (refrigerated) shipping container that monitors temperature, humidity, and detects impact and alarms when opened; Craftlo, an intelligent parking system that detects and alerts when there’s an empty parking space; and IoTiger, a smart billboard that detects weather and traffic conditions and adjusts displayed announcements aptly.

Bomb defusal game by Fighting Mongoose

The lifestyle category featured several “why didn’t I thought of that” entries. Among them are from: Fighting Mongoose, a connected interactive game where you have to “disarm the bomb” through fun, social mindgames; The Fellowship, an automated plantantion watering and fertilization system; Scikits, a building surface monitoring system that makes use of cameras and intelligent image detectors to monitor surfaces for faults; and Nutrunners, an augmented reality connected repair and maintenance system that makes use of intelligent, AR tools for quality control.

There were only two entries for healthcare and these were from How now Brown cows and Noticare which are a medication adherence tracking system and patient monitoring and alert system, respectively.

Team The Fellowship

The Fellowship (from Zalora) managed to get third place with their entry. The prototype is an automated plant watering and fertilization system that monitors your fauna through sensors that detects the soils moisture level and transfers data gathered in real time to an app. Should you be out when watering is needed, you can remotely splash your plants via triggering a pump that draws water from a reservoir through the app. This proof of concept could be deployed in urban settings or even just at home. They took home a USD 1,000 worth of AWS Cloud Service credits.

Smart billboard prototype by IoTigers

The Malaysian team from MayBank, IoTigers, came in second with their smart billboard prototype. The billboard uses a sensor to detect ambient information—temperature, humidity, UV exposure, motion—to contextualized advertisements shown on billboards. With this, the right target market is effectively reached, making it a more cost-effective marketing platform for customers. Thanks to their smart billboard system, IoTigers took home a USD 1,500 worth of AWS Cloud Service credits.

Team Nutrunners explaining how their smart tool works.

Emerging victorious in this year’s ASEAN hackathon is the Nutrunners; a team from Bosch who crafted an augmented realty repair and maintenance system. The prototype is a combination of augmented reality and smart tools such as a nutrunner that allows for a fun, interactive, and controlled experience when performing maintenance on machines or vehicles. Being connected to the Alexa Voice Service and a virtual reality headset, users can accurately screw in bolts or drill holes and be notified of areas where maintenance need to be performed intelligently. The Nutrunners, took home a USD 2,000 worth of AWS Cloud Service credits and Amazon echo for each team member.

AWS’ IoT HackDay encourages enterprises to innovate and build innovations that would initiate positive growth for the Internet of Things.

First published in Gadgets Magazine, June 2016 issue.