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Posts tagged as “Technology”

Pricing of the iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max in the Philippines

September 11, 2026
Pricing of the iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max in the Philippines

Together with the iPhone Duo, Apple has officially release the pricing information of the next generation iPhone the Philippines and here are the pricing of the iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max.

Storage Variant iPhone 18 Pro iPhone 18 Pro Max
256GB ₱94,990.00 ₱99,990.00
512GB ₱110,990.00 ₱115,990.00
1TB ₱142,990.00 ₱147,990.00
2TB ₱189,990.00 ₱194,990.00

Similar to the iPhone Duo, there is no word yet on when the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max will be available locally—even though pre-orders in other markets begin this Friday, September 12, with in-store availability starting September 18.

iPhone 18 Pro is Apple’s most powerful iPhone yet. It features the A20 Pro chip, which has exceptional AI capabilities and is cooled by a next-generation vapor chamber. It delivers the longest battery life ever in an iPhone — 6 more hours of video playback on iPhone 18 Pro Max compared with iPhone 17 Pro Max. A Pro camera system with variable aperture, greater depth of field, and better-quality low-light photos. And Siri AI, your more personal, more powerful AI assistant.

Technical Specifications for iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max

Feature iPhone 18 Pro iPhone 18 Pro Max
Display Super Retina XDR ProMotion (1-120Hz), 2868-by-1320-pixel resolution at 460 ppi Super Retina XDR ProMotion (1-120Hz), 2868-by-1320-pixel resolution at 460 ppi
Processor A20 Pro (2nm, 6-Core CPU, 7-core GPU with Neural Accelerators) A20 Pro (2nm, 6-Core CPU, 7-core GPU with Neural Accelerators)
Neural Engine Dual 16-Core Neural Engine (32 Cores total) Dual 16-Core Neural Engine (32 Cores total)
Main Camera 48MP Fusion Main Ultra Wide with variable aperture with Ultra Wide 48MP Fusion Telephoto 48MP Fusion Main Ultra Wide with variable aperture with Ultra Wide 48MP Fusion Telephoto
Front Camera 18MP Center Stage front camera 18MP Center Stage front camera
Video Recording 4K Dolby Vision, Cinematic post-processing 4K Dolby Vision, Cinematic post-processing
Connectivity Apple N1 (Wi-Fi 7, BT 6, Thread) + C2 Modem Apple N1 (Wi-Fi 7, BT 6, Thread) + C2 Modem
Battery Life Up to 36 hours video playback Up to 45 hours video playback
Storage Options 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, 2TB 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, 2TB
Color Finishes Black, Silver, Glacier, Burgundy Black, Silver, Glacier, Burgundy

**iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max Full Tech Specs here.

iPhone Duo Pricing in the Philippines

September 10, 2026
iPhone Duo Pricing in the Philippines

Just hours after the Apple Sept. 9 ‘Surprise and Shine’ Event, information about the iPhone Duo became available in the Apple’s Philippines Store and as expected the price for the iPhone Duo in the Philippines is on the highest of the high end.

Storage Variant iPhone Duo
256GB ₱ 159,990.00
512GB ₱ 175,990.00
1TB ₱ 207,990.00
2TB ₱ 254,990.00

No word yet on when it will become available in the country, since pre-orders for the iPhone Duo in other markets will start on Friday, October 16, and will be in-store and online availability on Friday, October 23.

iPhone Duo Specs

Feature Official Specification
Inner Display 7.6-inch Flexible OLED, Super Retina XDR (1-120Hz ProMotion)
Outer Cover Display 5.4-inch OLED, Super Retina XDR (1-120Hz ProMotion)
Build Materials Polished Grade 5 Titanium Chassis, Ceramic Shield
Processor A20 Pro (2nm architecture, 6-core CPU, 7-core GPU)
Neural Engine Dual 16-Core Neural Engine (32 Cores total)
Main Cameras Dual 48MP Fusion Camera System (Main + Ultra Wide)
Front Cameras – (Outer) 12MP Center Stage Camera
– (Inner) Under-display FaceTime camera
Stylus Support Apple Pencil compatible (Inner and Outer Display)
Wireless Silicon Apple N1 (Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, Thread) + C2 Cellular Modem
Battery Endurance Up to 44 hours video playback (outer display) / Up to 31 hours (inner display)
Storage Configurations 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, 2TB
Color Finishes Star White, Night Sky

iPhone Duo Price in Saudi Arabia

September 10, 2026
iPhone Duo Price in Saudi Arabia

Together with the iPhone 18 Pro series, here are the pricing for the iPhone Duo inside the Kingdom.

Storage Variant iPhone Duo
256GB SAR 9,499
512GB SAR 10,499
1TB SAR 12,499
2TB SAR 15,499

iPhone Duo will be available for pre-order on 16th of September and will be available in stores on 23rd of October.

Pricing of the iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max in Saudi Arabia

September 10, 2026
Pricing of the iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max in Saudi Arabia

Apple has officially announce the next generation iPhone and for those living in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia here are the pricing of the iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max.

Storage Variant iPhone 18 Pro iPhone 18 Pro Max
256GB SAR 5,699 SAR 6,099
512GB SAR 6,699 SAR 7,099
1TB SAR 8,699 SAR 9,099
2TB SAR 11,699 SAR 12,099

iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max will be available for Pre-order this Friday, Sept. 12th and will be available in stores and retailers starting 18th of September.

Apple Announces the iPhone Duo: Titanium Foldable Flagship Starts at $1,999

September 10, 2026
Apple Announces the iPhone Duo: Titanium Foldable Flagship Starts at $1,999

Apple has officially introduced the iPhone Duo, marking the most significant evolution in the iPhone’s physical design since its inception. Unveiled on stage by Apple CEO John Ternus, the device enters the foldable market with a refined book-style form factor. Crafted from mirror-polished Grade 5 titanium, the iPhone Duo folds into a compact passport-sized shell while opening into a expansive tablet-class canvas. The hardware is available in two distinct finishes: Star White and Night Sky.

Image: iPhone Duo in folded and unfolded form

The physical design centers on two displays. The cover interface uses a 5.4-inch outer panel for quick single-handed tasks. Unfolding the device reveals a 7.6-inch Ultra Retina XDR inner display engineered with a multi-pivot magnetic hinge, resulting in a near-invisible crease across the foldable screen.

The hinge allows the phone to flex across multiple positions. It can sit in Laptop Mode—splitting apps with controls on the bottom half and content on top—or stand independently in Tent Mode for hands-free video playback. A camera utility called Duo Preview projects live viewfinders onto both screens simultaneously, letting photography subjects see their framing in real time.

Under the hood, the device is powered by the 2nm A20 Pro silicon, backed by a 6-core CPU, 7-core GPU, and Dual 16-Core Neural Engines designed for complex Apple Intelligence workflows. On-device software support includes true side-by-side app multitasking and full support for the Apple Pencil on the inner display. The rear housing features a dual 48MP Fusion system, paired with the custom C2 cellular modem and N1 wireless chip for efficient network management.

Image: iPhone Duo in Star White and Night Sky Colors
Feature Official Specification
Inner Display 7.6-inch Flexible OLED, Super Retina XDR (1-120Hz ProMotion)
Outer Cover Display 5.4-inch OLED, Super Retina XDR (1-120Hz ProMotion)
Build Materials Polished Grade 5 Titanium Chassis, Ceramic Shield
Processor A20 Pro (2nm architecture, 6-core CPU, 7-core GPU)
Neural Engine Dual 16-Core Neural Engine (32 Cores total)
Main Cameras Dual 48MP Fusion Camera System (Main + Ultra Wide)
Front Cameras – (Outer) 12MP Center Stage Camera
– (Inner) Under-display FaceTime camera
Stylus Support Apple Pencil compatible (Inner and Outer Display)
Wireless Silicon Apple N1 (Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, Thread) + C2 Cellular Modem
Battery Endurance Up to 44 hours video playback (outer display) / Up to 31 hours (inner display)
Storage Configurations 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, 2TB
Color Finishes Star White, Night Sky

iPhone Duo Intro Video

iPhone Duo is a foldable iPhone with the largest iPhone display ever and reimagined iOS experiences for unprecedented versatility, including side-by-side apps for multitasking, hands-free FaceTime calls, and flexible viewing. It features an inner display that’s 50 percent larger than iPhone 18 Pro Max, a titanium frame, a 48MP Dual Fusion camera, all-new ways to shoot, the A20 Pro chip, a dual-battery system for all-day power, and Siri AI, your more personal, more powerful AI assistant.

Pricing and Availability
The iPhone Duo starts at $1,999 for the base 256GB storage variant, with higher storage tiers extending up to 2TB.

Pre-orders for the iPhone Duo open on Friday, October 16, at 5:00 a.m. PT. Official in-store and online availability begins one week later, on Friday, October 23.

Apple announces iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max with Variable Aperture Cameras, A20 Pro Silicon, and Next-Gen AI

September 10, 2026
Apple announces iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max with Variable Aperture Cameras, A20 Pro Silicon, and Next-Gen AI

Apple has officially revealed its latest flagship flagship lineup: the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max. Unveiled during Apple’s keynote event, the new smartphones mark a major step forward in mobile photography, thermal engineering, custom silicon performance, and deep OS-level artificial intelligence integration.

Spec-wise, the iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max are the same device with the difference in just their size and battery life; the iPhone 18 Pro features a 6.3-inch while the iPhone 18 Pro Max is clocks in at 6.9-inches, both are Super Retina XDR display with ProMotion technology. As for the battery life, the iPhone 18 Pro will have 36 hours of video playback, while the larger iPhone 18 Pro Max will have up to 45 hours of video playback.

As for the specs that both iPhone shares are; Inside, the 2nm A20 Pro chip delivers 20% faster CPU speeds, 40% better graphics, and dedicated AI acceleration, backed by an expanded vapor chamber that improves cooling by 40%.

Apple’s new N1 and C2 custom chips bring Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, and reliable cellular performance, while optimized designs boost battery life up to 36 hours on the Pro and 45 hours on the Pro Max. Finally, iOS 27 upgrades Apple Intelligence with context-aware Siri features and a smaller Dynamic Island that handles up to three Live Activities at once.

Image: Apple iPhone 18 Pro Color Lineup from Apple.com

Technical Specifications for iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max

Feature iPhone 18 Pro iPhone 18 Pro Max
Display Super Retina XDR ProMotion (1-120Hz), 2868-by-1320-pixel resolution at 460 ppi Super Retina XDR ProMotion (1-120Hz), 2868-by-1320-pixel resolution at 460 ppi
Processor A20 Pro (2nm, 6-Core CPU, 7-core GPU with Neural Accelerators) A20 Pro (2nm, 6-Core CPU, 7-core GPU with Neural Accelerators)
Neural Engine Dual 16-Core Neural Engine (32 Cores total) Dual 16-Core Neural Engine (32 Cores total)
Main Camera 48MP Fusion Main Ultra Wide with variable aperture with Ultra Wide 48MP Fusion Telephoto 48MP Fusion Main Ultra Wide with variable aperture with Ultra Wide 48MP Fusion Telephoto
Front Camera 18MP Center Stage front camera 18MP Center Stage front camera
Video Recording 4K Dolby Vision, Cinematic post-processing 4K Dolby Vision, Cinematic post-processing
Connectivity Apple N1 (Wi-Fi 7, BT 6, Thread) + C2 Modem Apple N1 (Wi-Fi 7, BT 6, Thread) + C2 Modem
Battery Life Up to 36 hours video playback Up to 45 hours video playback
Storage Options 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, 2TB 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, 2TB
Color Finishes Black, Silver, Glacier, Burgundy Black, Silver, Glacier, Burgundy

**iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max Full Tech Specs here.

iPhone 18 Pro is Apple’s most powerful iPhone yet. It features the A20 Pro chip, which has exceptional AI capabilities and is cooled by a next-generation vapor chamber. It delivers the longest battery life ever in an iPhone — 6 more hours of video playback on iPhone 18 Pro Max compared with iPhone 17 Pro Max. A Pro camera system with variable aperture, greater depth of field, and better-quality low-light photos. And Siri AI, your more personal, more powerful AI assistant.

Pricing and availability;
The iPhone 18 Pro starts at $1,199 for 256GB of base storage, while the iPhone 18 Pro Max starts at $1,299 for the 256GB model. Through Apple Installments, customers can purchase the iPhone 18 Pro starting at $49.95 per month or the Pro Max at $54.12 per month over a 24-month period, with trade-in discounts offering up to $1,200 off eligible devices.

Pre-orders for both models begin on Friday, September 12, followed by the official in-store launch on Friday, September 18th.

What to Expect at Today’s Apple “Surprise and Shine” Event?

September 9, 2026
What to Expect at Today’s Apple “Surprise and Shine” Event?

Apple’s highly anticipated “Surprise and Shine” keynote takes center stage today at Apple Park. Marking CEO John Ternus’s first major product unveiling, the presentation promises a historic shift in Apple’s hardware roadmap.

Apple’s First Foldable Device
The headline act is expected to be the long-rumored iPhone Ultra—Apple’s foray into foldable devices. Featuring a custom liquid-metal hinge engineered to minimize screen creasing, the passport-style foldable opens into a seamless 7.8-inch display, driven by the next-generation 2nm A20 Pro chip and C2 5G modem.

iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max
Alongside the foldable flagship, Apple will showcase the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max. Key hardware upgrades include a mechanical variable aperture primary camera system, advanced vapor-chamber cooling, and a refined Dynamic Island footprint.

Smart Wearables & OS Rollouts
As with previous September Apple events, the company will most likely announce its next-generation wearables: the Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4 with continuous background health tracking, alongside AirPods 5 powered by the new H3 chip. Official release dates for iOS 27 and watchOS 27 will also be included in the presentation.

Other Devices & Services
While Apple’s September event is usually reserved for new iPhones and wearables, it wouldn’t be surprising if the company also announces updates to its various services and platforms, including Apple TV+, iCloud, Apple Arcade, and visionOS for the Vision Pro.

With baseline iPhone models shifted to spring 2027, today’s event firmly spotlights Apple’s high-end, futuristic design vision.

Where and How to Watch

The Apple “Surprise and Shine” event will stream live on Wednesday, September 9, 2026, at 10:00 AM PT via:

The Boring Bot: Google Philippines Offers Free 1-Year Google AI Plus for College Students

September 7, 2026
The Boring Bot: Google Philippines Offers Free 1-Year Google AI Plus for College Students

Google Philippines has announced that eligible college and university students across the country can access a full year of Google AI Plus for free. The initiative aims to support Filipino tertiary students by providing advanced, AI-driven learning tools to enhance their academic productivity.

Subscribers gain complimentary access to Google’s Gemini Omni model, interactive 3D visualizations, Gemini Live for conversational study, and Study Notebooks—a tool designed to turn class materials into step-by-step lesson plans and practice tests. The plan also includes 400 GB of cloud storage shared across Drive, Gmail, and Google Photos.

Here’s the complete list of benefits for free Google AI Plus for Students;

To claim the promotion, students must sign in to the student hub or Gemini app using a personal Google account and verify their active enrollment at an eligible Philippine institution. A valid payment method is required for activation, but no charges apply during the 12-month period. Eligible students can redeem the offer until December 31, 2026. You can visit https://one.google.com/u/1/ai-student, for more information.

This article was originally published on AllThingsEV.net as Google Philippines Offers Free 1-Year Google AI Plus for College Students.

Apple’s New Mac Studio and Mac Mini now in Saudi Arabia

September 5, 2026
Apple’s New Mac Studio and Mac Mini now in Saudi Arabia

Apple’s newest hardware the Mac Studio with M5 Max and M5 Ultra, and Mac mini with M6 and M5 Pro, are now available in Saudi Arabia.

Image: Apple ’s new Mac mini featuring M6 and M5 Pro

The new Mac Minis is the first update to the compact desktop in nearly two years. The refreshed lineup keeps the same design but brings a major internal overhaul, headlined by two new chip options: the all-new M6 and the M5 Pro, which first appeared in the MacBook Pro earlier this year.

Image: Apple Mac Studio Front Ports

While the new Mac Studio is a more powerful version of the Mac mini and marketed towards professionals working with demanding workloads like 3D rendering, video effects, and large-scale AI models.

The two new Mac desktop are now available for preorder and will be available by Sept 29th.
Here are the starting prices for the Mac Studio and Mac mini models directly from Apple Store Saudi Arabia.

Mac Studio

Model / Processor Standard Starting Price Education Starting Price
Mac Studio (M5 Max) SAR 11,999 SAR 10,999
Mac Studio (M5 Ultra) SAR 25,999 —

Mac mini

Model / Processor Standard Starting Price Education Starting Price
Mac mini (M6) SAR 4,299 SAR 3,799
Mac mini (M5 Pro) SAR 7,999 SAR 7,499

Lenovo Debuts First Saudi-Made Laptop at LEAP 2026

September 2, 2026
Lenovo Debuts First Saudi-Made Laptop at LEAP 2026

At the LEAP 2026 technology conference in Riyadh, Lenovo marked a major milestone in Middle Eastern technology manufacturing by unveiling its very first locally produced commercial laptop.

Assembled at Lenovo’s new state-of-the-art facility in Riyadh, the physical unit serves as a working proof-of-concept for the tech giant’s localized production capabilities. The unveiling builds on Lenovo’s strategic multi-billion-dollar partnership with Public Investment Fund (PIF) entity ALAT, aimed at bolstering domestic industrial capabilities and tech infrastructure under Saudi Vision 2030.

The newly minted laptop represents the frontline of a broader operational hub. The Riyadh facility is engineered as Lenovo’s first global manufacturing plant designed to produce its entire product ecosystem—encompassing PCs, ThinkPad commercial laptops, servers, and Motorola mobile devices—under one roof.

While retail pricing and precise sub-model specifications for the consumer market remain under wraps, full-scale mass production at the Riyadh site is scheduled to officially ramp up in late 2026. Beyond hardware production, the facility incorporates local engineering talent trained alongside Lenovo’s global technical teams, positioning Saudi Arabia as a vital hub for regional and international technology manufacturing.

Source: Lenovo

Apple Announces Sept. 9 Event Titled ‘Surprise and Shine’

September 1, 2026
Apple Announces Sept. 9 Event Titled ‘Surprise and Shine’

Apple has officially confirmed its most anticipated hardware showcase of the year, sending out invitations bearing the cryptic tagline “Surprise and Shine”. Scheduled for Wednesday, September 9, 2026, at 10:00 AM PT, the event will be broadcast live from the Steve Jobs Theater at Apple Park.

While a September event is a cornerstone tradition for Apple—officially kicking off what tech journalists famously call “Tech-Tember”—this year’s keynote marks a historic transition. It serves as the public debut of John Ternus as Apple’s Chief Executive Officer. Having taken the helm on September 1, 2026, following Tim Cook’s transition to Executive Chairman, the former Hardware Engineering chief will step onto the stage to outline Apple’s vision for its hardware and AI-driven ecosystem.

Here is a full breakdown of what to expect on stage during Apple’s big presentation.

1. Executive Transition: John Ternus Leads the Way

For the first time in 15 years, an Apple September keynote will may not be opened by Tim Cook. John Ternus, a 25-year Apple veteran who previously led the engineering of the Mac, iPad, AirPods, and iPhone product lines, is officially driving the company into its next decade.

Ternus takes the stage as a product builder—a contrast to Cook’s operational background—and industry watchers are eager to see how his leadership style influences both product design and the public presentation of Apple’s long-term hardware roadmap.

2. Expected Hardware Announcements

The upcoming event focuses heavily on Apple’s flagship, Pro-tier mobile hardware and next-generation wearables.

Flagship Smartphones: iPhone 18 Pro Series & iPhone Ultra
Unlike previous years, reports indicate that the base-model iPhone 18 line will be delayed until early 2027, leaving September strictly for the premium tier:

  • iPhone Ultra (Apple’s First Foldable): The headliner of the event, the long-rumored foldable iPhone—tentatively dubbed the iPhone Ultra — is expected to make its debut. Featuring a book-style fold with a 7.7-inch inner screen and a 5.3-inch outer display, it is set to run an updated build of iOS tailored for side-by-side multitasking.
  • iPhone 18 Pro & iPhone 18 Pro Max: Powered by the new 3nm A20 Pro chip, these flagships are rumored to introduce a smaller Dynamic Island and a variable-aperture camera system (exclusive to the Pro Max) for enhanced low-light photography.

Wearables: Apple Watch & Next-Gen Audio

  • Apple Watch Series 12: Featuring the new S11 processor, improved power efficiency, and advanced health tracking, the Series 12 may also see the return of a premium ceramic case option.
  • Apple Watch Ultra 4: Built with the new S11 chip, the Ultra 4 is expected to expand satellite features—enabling offline satellite photo transmission in Messages and satellite navigation updates.
  • AirPods 5: Apple is expected to introduce two distinct variants of the 5th-generation AirPods: a baseline model and a mid-tier version featuring Active Noise Cancellation (ANC).

Hardware Expectations at a Glance

3. Software Rollouts: OS 27 Release Dates

Alongside hardware, Apple will finalize release dates for its next generation of operating systems:

  • iOS 27 & watchOS 27: Expected to roll out publicly during the week of September 14 following the event.
  • macOS 27 (Golden Gate):Expected to ship in tandem with upcoming Mac updates slated for late September.

Where and How to Watch

The “Surprise and Shine” keynote will stream live on Wednesday, September 9, 2026, at 10:00 AM PT via:

Tim Cook Steps Down as Apple CEO, Welcoming John Ternus to the Top Spot

September 1, 2026
Tim Cook Steps Down as Apple CEO, Welcoming John Ternus to the Top Spot

In a monumental shift for the tech industry, Tim Cook has officially stepped down as Apple’s Chief Executive Officer. Taking the helm as the new CEO is John Ternus, Apple’s longtime Senior Vice President of Hardware Engineering, marking the beginning of a fresh era for the Cupertino giant.

This historic leadership handoff follows Apple’s official announcement on April 20, 2026, which outlined a structured succession strategy unanimously approved by the Board of Directors. After leading Apple through fifteen transformative years—growing its valuation past $4 trillion—Cook transitions into his new role as Executive Chairman.

Reflecting on his historic journey and expressing immense faith in his successor, Cook shared a heartfelt message on X (formerly Twitter):

Ternus, a 25-year Apple veteran, assumes control as the company navigates next-generation hardware launches and evolving AI integrations, carrying forward Apple’s legacy of innovation.

POCO F9 Series Global Launch Set for September 1: What to Expect from the F9 Ultra

August 31, 2026
POCO F9 Series Global Launch Set for September 1: What to Expect from the F9 Ultra

POCO has officially set the stage for its next generation of performance flagships. The Xiaomi sub-brand confirmed via official teasers that the POCO F9 Series will premiere globally on September 1, 2026. Continuing the strategy seen in recent lineups, POCO will skip a standard “vanilla” model and jump straight into high-performance territory with a duo lineup: the POCO F9 Pro and the flagship-tier POCO F9 Ultra.

Teased under the tagline “UltraPower Unbound,” both devices are heavily tipped to be global adaptations of China’s recently released Redmi K100 series. Early renders reveal premium finishes—including Dark Cherry red and Aurora Green—complemented by explicit “Sound by Bose” audio branding on the rear panel.

Rumored Specifications of POCO F9 Ultra

1. Next-Gen Performance & Processing

At the heart of the POCO F9 Ultra is Qualcomm’s top-tier Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor, paired with dedicated display coprocessing hardware (D2 display chip) to handle extreme frame rendering. Configured with up to 16GB of LPDDR5X RAM and 512GB (or up to 1TB) of UFS 4.1 storage, the F9 Ultra aims to deliver desktop-grade mobile gaming power without thermal bottlenecking.

2. Class-Leading 185Hz AMOLED Display

The F9 Ultra features a massive 6.9-inch AMOLED display protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 7i. Targeting hyper-responsive gaming and media consumption, it boasts a class-leading 185Hz refresh rate, Dolby Vision support, HDR10+, and a peak local brightness rated up to 4,500 nits.

3. Upgraded Periscope Camera System

Moving beyond traditional performance-focused compromises, the camera array on the Ultra model brings substantial optical hardware upgrades:

  • Main: 200 MP wide-angle sensor with Optical Image Stabilization (OIS).
  • Telephoto: 50 MP periscope lens providing 5x optical zoom with OIS.
  • Ultra-Wide: 50 MP ultrawide lens for expanded landscape shots.
  • Front Camera: 32 MP sensor supporting 4K video recording.

4. Massive Battery & Charging

To sustain high-refresh gaming, the F9 Ultra is reported to feature an 8,050mAh battery —a notable upgrade over its predecessor, the F8 Ultra. The battery supports 100W wired fast charging, along with 50W wireless and reverse wireless/wired charging options.

5. Audio & Build Quality

  • Audio: Dual Bose-tuned 2.1 acoustic speaker system.
  • Build: Aluminum frame with dual IP68/IP69 dust and water resistance ratings.
Image: POCO F9 Pro in Aurora Green

Key Spec Overview: POCO F9 Ultra (Rumored)

Device Key Expected Features Target Availability
iPhone Ultra Book-style foldable design, dual displays, specialized iOS multitasking features Pre-orders Sept 12 / Late 2026
iPhone 18 Pro / Pro Max A20 Pro chip, smaller Dynamic Island, variable aperture camera system Pre-orders Sept 12
Apple Watch Series 12 S11 chip, enhanced battery, potential ceramic case return September 2026
Apple Watch Ultra 4 Advanced satellite connectivity (photo messaging/satellite maps), S11 chip September 2026
AirPods 5 Available in two tiers (Entry-level and Active Noise Cancellation model) September 2026
Feature Spec / Configuration
Display 6.9″ AMOLED, 185Hz refresh rate, 4,500 nits peak brightness
Processor Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 (3nm) + D2 Display Chip
RAM / Storage 12GB / 16GB RAM | 256GB / 512GB / 1TB UFS 4.1
Rear Cameras 200MP Main (OIS) + 50MP Periscope Telephoto (5x Optical, OIS) + 50MP Ultrawide
Front Camera 32MP (4K Video capable)
Battery & Charging 8,050mAh; 100W Wired, 50W Wireless Charging
Audio & Extras Bose 2.1 Tuned Speakers, IP68/IP69 rating, eSIM support
Estimated Pricing Starting around €999 in European markets

Global Launch Details

The global livestream event for the POCO F9 Series is scheduled for September 1 at 8:00 PM GMT (1:30 AM IST on September 2) via the company’s official Youtube Channel youtube.com/@POCOGlobal. Pricing details and regional availability configurations will be officially confirmed during the broadcast.

DICT Launches Philippine Startup Challenge 2026 to Spark Youth Innovation

August 30, 2026
DICT Launches Philippine Startup Challenge 2026 to Spark Youth Innovation

The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) has officially announced the launch of the Philippine Startup Challenge (PSC) 2026. As a flagship initiative under the Digital Startup Development and Acceleration Program (DSDAP), this nationwide competition aims to inspire young Filipino innovators to transform tech-driven concepts into viable, social-impact business ventures.

Open to Senior High School, College, and Tech-Voc students, PSC 2026 encourages participants to tackle real-world challenges through Information and Communications Technology (ICT). Competing teams will present solutions spanning artificial intelligence, agricultural technology, digital health, and sustainable development.

The competition progresses through multi-stage regional pitching rounds, with top teams advancing to the national finals. Beyond titles, finalists gain direct access to industry mentorship, networking with tech leaders, and potential funding avenues to scale their prototypes.

By empowering youth to pursue entrepreneurship alongside traditional career paths, DICT reinforces the country’s growing startup ecosystem under the Innovative Startup Act. Students across the country are invited to form teams, submit their proposals, and help shape the future of Philippine digital innovation.

Interested applicants can find your region below to access the corresponding application form;

For more information on Philippine Startup Challenge 2026, please visit the Philippine Startup Challenge 2026 official website at https://iidb2026.my.canva.site/psc-xi-website

Huawei to Launch the Mate XT 2 Tri-Fold Phone Set this September 7th

August 30, 2026
Huawei to Launch the Mate XT 2 Tri-Fold Phone Set this September 7th

Huawei has officially confirmed that its next-generation tri-foldable flagship, the Huawei Mate XT 2, will make its debut on September 7, 2026. The unveiling will take place during an “All-Scenario New Product Launch Event” in China scheduled for 14:30 local time.

Alongside the hardware reveal, Huawei will officially launch HarmonyOS 7, the company’s newest operating system iteration that will power the device out of the box.

What We Know About the Huawei Mate XT 2
The Mate XT 2 arrives as the successor to Huawei’s pioneering tri-fold series. While the original Mate XT Ultimate made history by establishing the dual-hinge, triple-screen form factor, the Mate XT 2 is expected to refine the mechanics, durability, and processing power.

Rumored Specs;

  • Refined Folding Mechanism: Leaks suggest Huawei may introduce an updated hinge track structure aimed at further minimizing screen crease visibility and increasing durability.
  • Next-Gen Silicon: Industry reports indicate the device will be powered by Huawei’s Kirin 9050 Pro chipset, providing enhanced multi-tasking performance for the expansive display.
  • Battery & Power: Expected to feature an upgraded silicon-anode battery with a capacity exceeding 6,000mAh, optimizing battery life for dual- and triple-screen modes.
  • Software Integration: Powered by HarmonyOS 7, designed specifically to handle dynamic windowing, seamless layout changes, and multi-app productivity across three distinct screen states.

By holding its launch event on September 7, Huawei maintains its traditional early-September release schedule for flagship foldables. The event positions Huawei right ahead of major autumn announcements from international rivals, reinforcing its dominant share in the premium foldable segment within China. While the September 7 event focuses primarily on the Chinese domestic market, a global variant announcement is expected to follow in subsequent months.

Source: Huawei Central

Nissan Unveils Refreshed Fairlady Z and Fairlady Z NISMO in Japan

August 27, 2026
Nissan Unveils Refreshed Fairlady Z and Fairlady Z NISMO in Japan

Nissan Motor Co. has officially launched the refreshed Fairlady Z and track-focused Fairlady Z NISMO in Japan, combining deep-rooted legacy cues with modern performance and cabin updates.

The standard Fairlady Z pays homage to iconic predecessors across multiple generations. Up front, the historic Z emblem makes a prominent return to the front fascia for the first time in years. A redesigned front bumper extends the vehicle’s nose to lower aerodynamic drag while emphasizing classic long-hood proportions. Exterior styling is further elevated by retro Z31 aero-disc forged aluminum wheels and ten color options, including a vintage Unryu Green two-tone finish inspired by the original S30 Grand Prix Green. Inside, drivers receive an optional S30-inspired tan cabin, a digital instrument cluster that displays a startup animation featuring every Z silhouette, and upgraded monotube shock absorbers engineered with a 26.6% larger pressure-receiving area for smoother high-speed stability.

Addressing driver demand, the performance-oriented Fairlady Z NISMO introduces an exclusive short-throw six-speed manual transmission alongside dedicated throttle and ignition tuning. The manual setup offers distinct Standard and Sport drive modes complete with custom acceleration sound profiles. Track capability is boosted by two-piece drilled front brake rotors derived from the Nissan GT-R, bright red calipers, a low-friction steering rack, and a NISMO-exclusive VDC Traction mode designed to sharpen turn-in response and control.

Both models incorporate key hardware and technology upgrades for daily usability. A new interior fuel tank chamber ensures stable fuel delivery under aggressive cornering, while safety systems are enhanced with emergency bicycle-detection braking. Drivers also gain an active-cooled, Qi2-compatible magnetic wireless charger designed to keep devices secure and powered during high-vibration driving.

Gallery

  • Nissan Fairlady Z and Fairlady Z NISMO Exterior

Here’s Nissan’s suggested retail price of Fairlady Z and Fairlady Z NISMO in Japan;

Drivetrain Engine Transmission Grade Price (yen)
2WD VR30DDTT 6MT Fairlady Z 5,737,600
Fairlady Z Version S 6,586,800
Fairlady Z Version ST 6,999,300
Fairlady Z NISMO　※ 9,752,600
9M-ATx Fairlady Z 5,737,600
Fairlady Z Version T 6,199,600
Fairlady Z Version ST 6,999,300
Fairlady Z NISMO　※ 9,752,600
※Selection of a   special exterior color is mandatory for the Fairlady Z NISMO. The cost of the   selected special exterior color, starting from 49,500 yen, will be added to   the vehicle price.

Apple announces New Mac Studio with M5 Max and M5 Ultra

August 26, 2026
Apple announces New Mac Studio with M5 Max and M5 Ultra

Alongside the refreshed Mac mini, Apple has introduced a new Mac Studio, powered by two high-end chip options: the M5 Max and the M5 Ultra. The update targets professionals working with demanding workloads like 3D rendering, video effects, and large-scale AI models.

The M5 Ultra headlines the lineup as what Apple calls its “most powerful chip ever.” It’s built by fusing two dual-die M5 Max chips, making it Apple’s first quad-die chip. The result is a CPU with up to 36 cores and a GPU with up to 80 cores, backed by 1.2TB/s of unified memory bandwidth—50% more than the M3 Ultra released roughly a year and a half ago. Apple positions the M5 Ultra for compute-intensive professional work, though it’s also expected to appeal to hobbyist AI developers running large local models.

The M5 Max serves as the more accessible tier below the Ultra, built on Apple’s 2nm process and sharing the new CPU complex introduced with the M6 family. Apple says the chip’s architecture improves peak GPU compute for AI workloads by nearly 30% over the M5, speeding up on-device LLM prompt processing. Both chips support memory configurations up to 512GB, giving the Mac Studio significant headroom for large models and datasets.

Apple frames the new Mac Studio as a machine built for developers who want to run and fine-tune large AI models locally, reflecting the company’s broader push into on-device AI capability across its Mac lineup.

  • Apple Mac Studio Front Ports

The new Mac Studio is available to pre-order starting today, with deliveries and in-store availability beginning September 22, alongside the new Mac mini. Mac Studio with M5 Max starts at $2,499 and the Mac Studio with M5 Ultra starts at $5,499. Additional configure-to-order options are available at apple.com/mac-studio.

Apple Refreshes Mac Mini with M6 and M5 Pro Chips

August 26, 2026
Apple Refreshes Mac Mini with M6 and M5 Pro Chips

Apple has unveiled a new Mac mini, the first update to the compact desktop in nearly two years. The refreshed lineup keeps the same design but brings a major internal overhaul, headlined by two new chip options: the all-new M6 and the M5 Pro, which first appeared in the MacBook Pro earlier this year.

The base model now ships with the M6, Apple’s first chip built on a 2nm process. It features a 12-core CPU and 12-core GPU, a dual 16-core Neural Engine, and up to 170GB/s of memory bandwidth. Apple says it delivers up to 40% faster CPU performance, 4x faster AI performance, and 2x faster graphics versus the outgoing M4 Mac mini.

Stepping up to the M5 Pro configuration unlocks up to an 18-core CPU, 20-core GPU, 64GB of unified memory, and 8TB of storage—positioning it as the more capable option for demanding workloads.

  • Apple Mac Mini front ports

Beyond the chips, the new Mac mini adds Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, and Neural Accelerators in every GPU core. Pricing starts at $899, up from the previous $799 base, with pre-orders open now and deliveries beginning September 22.

HONOR Magic V6 now available in the Philippines for ₱120,000.00

August 25, 2026
HONOR Magic V6 now available in the Philippines for ₱120,000.00

HONOR Philippines just announced that their Magic V6 foldable smartphone is now available in the country with a SRP of ₱119,999.00.

The HONOR Magic V6 sets a new benchmark for ultra-slim foldables, measuring a mere 8.75 mm thick when folded and weighing approximately 219 grams. The device features an upgraded aerospace-grade Super Steel Hinge built to endure 500,000 folds, alongside a robust IP68 and IP69 rating for extreme water and dust resistance.

The viewing experience is driven by a 6.52-inch outer screen and a massive 7.95-inch unfolded inner display. Both utilize 1–120Hz LTPO adaptive refresh rates and feature industry-leading eye-comfort technology with peak brightness levels reaching up to 6,000 nits. Under the hood, the device is powered by the flagship Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor, paired with a massive 6,660mAh silicon-carbon battery that supports 80W wired and 66W wireless charging.

Image: HONOR Magic V6

Here is the official specification of HONOR Magic V6;

Category Specification Details
Processor Qualcomm Snapdragon® 8 Elite Gen 5 Mobile Platform (Octa-core: 2×Prime 4.6GHz + 6×Performance 3.62GHz)
• GPU: Adreno 840
Memory & Storage 16GB RAM + 512GB ROM or 16GB RAM + 1TB ROM versions available
Displays Inner Screen: 7.95-inch Foldable OLED, 2352 x 2172 pixels, HDR peak brightness 5000 nits
• External Screen: 6.52-inch OLED, 2420 x 1080 pixels, HDR peak brightness 6000 nits
• Eye Comfort: 4320Hz PWM Flicker-Free Dimming, AI Defocus Display
Dimensions (H x W x D) Height: 156.7 mm
• Width: 74.5 mm (folded), 145.6 mm (unfolded)
• Depth (White version): 8.75 mm (folded), 4.0 mm (unfolded)
• Depth (Other versions): 9.0 mm (folded), 4.1 mm (unfolded)
Weight White Version: Approx. 219g (with battery)
• Other Versions: Approx. 224g (with battery)
Rear Camera Triple Camera Setup:
• 50MP Wide Main Camera (f/1.6, OIS)
• 50MP Ultra-Wide Camera (f/2.2)
• 64MP Telephoto Lens Camera (f/2.5, OIS with 3x optical & 100x digital zoom)
• Video: Up to 4K recording with EIS+OIS
Front Cameras Dual Camera Setup: 20MP Wide Camera (f/2.2) on both the inner screen and exterior screen (Supports 4K video)
Battery & Charging 6660 mAh (typical) Silicon-Carbon battery
• Wired: 80W HONOR SuperCharge
• Wireless: 66W Wireless HONOR SuperCharge
Durability IP68 and IP69 water and dust resistance rating
Operating System MagicOS 10 (Based on Android 16)
Connectivity 5G, Dual SIM (SIM+SIM, SIM+eSIM, or dual eSIM)
• Wi-Fi 7 (802.11be), Bluetooth 6.0, NFC, Infrared Remote Control
Colors Red, Gold, White, Black

The HONOR Magic V6 foldable is currently available for preorder starting today until Sept 4th. Those who will preorder the Magic V6 will receive an HONOR Pad X8b worth ₱12,999, plus EXCLUSIVE HONOR VIP Service with 1 Year FREE Screen and Body Replacement Warranty.

HONOR Unveils Four Major Surprises at LEAP 2026

August 24, 2026
HONOR Unveils Four Major Surprises at LEAP 2026

HONOR is set to make a powerful statement at LEAP 2026, unveiling four major innovations embedded directly into its latest design lineup.

Just my speculation, but the four surprises HONOR will be announcing are likely the same ones revealed at MWC 2026 in Barcelona, Spain.

  1. HONOR Robot Phone
  2. HONOR AI
  3. Humanoid Robot
  4. and more product announcements

A video of their Humanoid Robot have been making rounds lately, where it ran 100m in 9.32 seconds, breaking Usain Bolt’s record of 9.58 seconds.

HONOR to Unveil Revolutionary Robot Phone at LEAP 2026

August 24, 2026
HONOR to Unveil Revolutionary Robot Phone at LEAP 2026

Global technology brand HONOR is set to unveil its groundbreaking HONOR Robot Phone in the Saudi market at LEAP 2026.

First announced last March 2026 at Mobile World Congress (MWC 2026) in Barcelona, the HONOR Robot Phone features an embodied AI interaction system paired with a motorized, multi-axis gimbal camera. Designed for dynamic subject tracking and cinematic capture, the smartphone merges next-generation robotics with flagship mobile performance. HONOR Robot Phone is currently on sales in China for ¥12999.00 (Yuan) or around SAR 7,272.26.

Choosing LEAP 2026 for the regional debut underscores HONOR’s commitment to Saudi Arabia’s rapidly growing position as a global hub for technological innovation and AI leadership. Official local pricing and availability will be shared during the event.

Image: HONOR Robot Phone

The flagship HONOR Robot Phone stands out with its retractable, robotic camera system alongside top-tier hardware specs:

Feature Specification
Robotic Camera System Retractable motorized 4DoF (4 Degrees of Freedom) titanium gimbal camera with 3D automated subject tracking
Rear Cameras • 200 MP (Main, f/1.6, OIS, 1/1.28″)
• 200 MP (Periscope Telephoto, 2.7x Optical Zoom, f/2.6)
• 50 MP (Ultrawide, f/2.0)
Front Camera 50 MP (f/2.0 wide)
Processor Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 (3 nm)
GPU Adreno™ 840
Display 6.31-inch LTPO&nbsp OLED (1216 x 2640 px), 120Hz, up to 6800 nits peak brightness, Giant Rhinoceros Glass/HONOR NanoCrystal Shield
Battery & Charging 7060 mAh Silicon-Carbon battery, 120W wired fast charging, 50W wireless charging
Memory & Storage 12GB+512GB / 16GB+1TB
OS & UI Android 16 with MagicOS 10
Build & Protection Aluminum frame, Titanium gimbal assembly, IP54 dust/splash resistance, 248 g
Special Features 10-bit Log-C3 video encoding, ARRI color science tuning, custom C1 RF, E2 power management, and H1 imaging chips

For the full specs and more information on HONOR Robot Phone, you can visit https://www.honor.com/global/phones/honor-robot-phone/.

HONOR Pad 20 Series Is Now Available for Pre-Order in Saudi Arabia

August 24, 2026
HONOR Pad 20 Series Is Now Available for Pre-Order in Saudi Arabia

The HONOR Pad 20 Series has officially landed in Saudi Arabia, arriving just in time for the busy back-to-school season. Positioned as a versatile tablet lineup for students, young professionals, and families, the series delivers laptop-like multitasking, vivid display options, and massive battery endurance in an ultra-portable profile.

Pre-orders are currently live across major local retailers, including Jarir Bookstore and eXtra KSA, until today August 24, 2026. Shipments and in-store pick-ups are slated to begin between August 22 and August 30, 2026.

  • HONOR Pad 20 (Standard): Starts at 1,599 SAR and comes bundled with exclusive pre-order gift packages valued at up to 1,296 SAR.
  • HONOR Pad 20 Pro: Starts at 2,199 SAR, packed with performance upgrades and gift bundles valued at 1,696 SAR.
  • HONOR Pad 20 Paperlike Edition: Starts at 1,799 SAR, packed with performance upgrades and gift bundles valued at 1,696 SAR.
  • Flexible Payments: Major retailers are offering interest-free installment options via split-payment services like Tabby and Tamara.
Image: HONOR Pad 20 Pro

Key Features and Specs Across the Lineup

Feature HONOR Pad 20 HONOR Pad 20 Paperlike Edition HONOR Pad 20 Pro
Display 12.1-inch 3K LCD (3000 x 1872) 12.1-inch 3K Anti-Glare Matte LCD 12.1-inch 3K LCD (3000 x 1872)
Refresh Rate Up to 120Hz Up to 120Hz / 165Hz Up to 165Hz
Processor Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 Snapdragon 8s Gen 4
RAM & Storage Up to 12GB RAM / 256GB Up to 12GB RAM / 256GB 8GB RAM / 256GB
Battery & Charging 10,100mAh / 45W Fast Charge 10,100mAh / 45W Fast Charge 10,100mAh / 66W Fast Charge
Audio 6 Speakers 6 Speakers 6 Speakers (DTS:X Ultra)
Cameras Rear: 8MP / Front: 8MP Rear: 8MP / Front: 8MP Rear: 13MP / Front: 8MP
Connectivity Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.3 Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.3 Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6.0
Stylus & OS Magic-Pencil support / MagicOS 10 Magic-Pencil support / MagicOS 10 Magic-Pencil 4s support / MagicOS 10
Regular Price SAR 2,197.00 SAR 2,397.00 SAR 3,297.00

Standout Capabilities for Productivity and Reading

  • PaperLike Anti-Glare Technology: Designed to eliminate glare, the dedicated PaperLike surface cuts ambient reflections by up to 99%, dropping visual fatigue by 24% during long reading or note-taking sessions.
  • PC-Class Multitasking: Running MagicOS 10, both tablets feature a built-in PC Mode capable of managing up to 15 active windows concurrently alongside split-screen setups. Optional accessories like the Magic-Pencil 4s and magnetic keyboard cover seamlessly turn the tablet into a light workstation.
  • All-Day Endurance: The 10,100mAh battery supports up to 14 hours of document reading, 10 hours of note-taking, or 71 days on ultra-long standby.

ASUS Expands Pre-Built Gaming Lineup in PH with TUF Gaming T700 and T700 Mini

August 20, 2026
ASUS Expands Pre-Built Gaming Lineup in PH with TUF Gaming T700 and T700 Mini

ASUS Philippines has officially introduced its newest additions to its desktop gaming lineup: the ASUS TUF Gaming T700 and the compact ASUS TUF Gaming T700 Mini. Engineered to combine military-grade durability, efficient thermal designs, and next-generation processing power, the T700 series targets gamers, streamers, and content creators looking for high-performance pre-built rigs backed by official warranty support.

ASUS TUF Gaming T700 (TM700TZ)


Image: ASUS TUF Gaming T700 (TM700TZ) via asus.com

The standard ASUS TUF Gaming T700 features a mecha-inspired 47-liter chassis built with military-grade MIL-STD-810H durability standards. Equipped with a transparent tempered glass side panel with built-in EMI shielding and custom TUF orange ambient lighting, the full-sized tower prioritizes both aesthetics and high-capacity airflow.

Key Specifications:

  • Processor: AMD Ryzen 7 8700F (8 cores, 16 threads, up to 5.0 GHz)
  • Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5060 Ti Dual 8GB GDDR7
  • Motherboard: AMD B650 Chipset
  • Memory: 16GB DDR5 U-DIMM (Expandable up to 64GB)
  • Storage: 512GB M.2 NVMe PCIe 4.0 SSD
  • Cooling Solution: 240mm AIO Liquid Cooling System
  • Power Supply: 600W (80+ Gold certification)
  • Bundles: Includes ASUS Gaming RGB Keyboard & Mouse, Lifetime Office Home 2024, and 1-Year Microsoft 365 Basic subscription

You can checkout the full specs of ASUS TUF Gaming T700 (TM700TZ) here.

ASUS TUF Gaming T700 Mini (T700MF)


Image: ASUS TUF Gaming T700 Mini (T700MF) via asus.com

For users seeking strong computing power in a smaller desktop footprint, the ASUS TUF Gaming T700 Mini delivers 1440p-ready gaming performance within a space-saving micro-ATX form factor. Key Specifications:Processor: Up to Intel Core Ultra 7 265KF Graphics: Up to NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5060 Ti Memory Support: Up to 64GB DDR5 RAM Storage Support: PCIe Gen 4 NVMe SSDs Chassis Layout: Compact small-form-factor design optimized for desk space and portable setups

Key Specifications:

  • Processor: Up to Intel Core Ultra 7 265KF
  • Graphics: Up to NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5060 Ti
  • Memory: Up to 64GB DDR5 RAM
  • Storage: PCIe Gen 4 NVMe SSDs
  • Chassis Layout: Compact small-form-factor design optimized for desk space and portable setups

You can checkout the full specs of ASUS TUF Gaming T700 Mini (T700MF) here.

Yugatech reports, that “The ASUS TUF Gaming T700 (TM700TZ) is available in two configurations in the Philippines:”

  • Ryzen 7 8700F + RTX 5060 Ti 8GB (16GB DDR5 RAM, 512GB SSD, 1000W Gold PSU) – ₱149,995
  • Ryzen 7 8700F + RTX 5060 8GB (16GB DDR5 RAM, 512GB SSD, 1000W Gold PSU) – ₱139,995

Both configurations come with an ASUS mouse and keyboard, Microsoft Office Home 2024 lifetime license, one year of Microsoft 365 Basic. As for the availability for the ASUS TUF Gaming T700 Mini (T700MF), it will follow across nationwide retail partners, official ROG Stores, and ASUS online outlets in the coming months.

Source: INQ

Spotify Introduces Playlist Notes to Add Personal Context to Music Streaming

August 20, 2026
Spotify Introduces Playlist Notes to Add Personal Context to Music Streaming

Spotify’s new Playlist Notes feature adds a layer of human connection to algorithmic curation. The tool allows both Spotify’s editorial team and everyday users to attach short explanations, personal memories, or recommendations to individual tracks, podcast episodes, and audiobooks within their playlists.

By tapping the three-dot menu next to a track, creators can write notes that explain why a specific song belongs. Meanwhile, Spotify editors are using the feature on flagship playlists like Today’s Top Hits to share cultural insights. Ultimately, Playlist Notes transforms static tracklists into interactive, narrative-driven music experiences.

How to add a notes;

Playlist Notes on user-curated playlists are currently rolling out on iOS and Android in more than 100 markets globally. Availability may differ from editors’ Playlist Notes.

  1. Open a playlist you own or collaborate on.
  2. Tap the three dots (…) next to a track, podcast episode, or audiobook you’ve added to the playlist.
  3. Select Add note.
  4. Enter your note, then tap Save.

If the feature is not available in your app, please Update your Spotify app to get the latest features as they roll out.

Source: Spotify

Meta announces new Instagram brand identity

August 18, 2026
Meta announces new Instagram brand identity

Instagram has unveiled an evolved brand identity designed to put community self-expression and creativity at the forefront. Grounded in a refreshed design system, the update marks a thoughtful modernization of the platform’s iconic visual identity.

At the center of the redesign is a updated script wordmark. While remaining recognizable, the lettering has been refined to be bolder, simpler, and more expressive, capturing the personal touch of individual voice. According to Instagram’s design team, honoring the original script was essential because hand-crafted lettering reflects the organic individuality of its users.

Beyond the logo, the broader brand system introduces updated typography, including a refreshed Instagram Sans, a new handwritten typeface named Instagram Pen, and a companion font called Instagram Mono. The iconic vibrant gradient remains a core element, but it is now applied with more restraint across motion and UI layouts. This shift provides a cleaner backdrop, letting user photos, videos, and creative works take center stage.

Source: Meta

Google Unveils the Pixel 11 Pro Fold: Tensor G6, Gearless Hinge, and IP68 Durability

August 13, 2026
Google Unveils the Pixel 11 Pro Fold: Tensor G6, Gearless Hinge, and IP68 Durability

Google unveiled the Pixel 11 Pro Fold alongside the rest of the Pixel 11 lineup at its annual ‘Made by Google’ event on August 12, 2026. Marking Google’s fourth-generation foldable, the device introduces a thinner, lighter, and vastly more durable design powered by the 2nm Tensor G6 chipset. Key hardware upgrades include a gearless hinge, an IP68 rating, and an improved glass-composite back.

The Pixel 11 Pro Fold introduces a re-engineered gearless hinge mechanism alongside a glass-fiber composite back cover built to resist drops and cracks. The device achieves an IP68 dust-and-water resistance rating, delivering three times the durability of its predecessor.

The new HiLight LED Camera Bar replaces the old temperature sensor, using an integrated lighting array around the camera visor to display color-coded, glanceable notifications for incoming calls, key contacts, and hands-free Gemini AI interactions. Under the hood, Google’s custom 2nm Tensor G6 processor works alongside the Titan M3 security co-processor to power on-device AI workloads, boost energy efficiency, and optimize thermal performance.

Accessibility also receives a major upgrade with real-time Sign-to-Text Translation, developed with the Deaf community to convert American Sign Language (ASL) captured by the camera into written text on the cover screen. Finally, both the 8.0-inch inner display and outer cover screen reach a peak brightness of 3,600 nits—a 20% increase—while a thicker glass layer and wider bend radius noticeably diminish the display crease.

Specification Details
Displays: Outer: 6.5″ OLED LTPO (1080 x 2342, 1–120Hz, 3,600 nits)
Inner: 8.0″ Flexible OLED LTPO (2076 x 2152, 1–120Hz, 3,600 nits)
Processor & Memory: Google Tensor G6 (2nm) + Titan M3 co-processor with 16GB LPDDR5X   RAM
Storage Options: 256GB / 512GB / 1TB
Dimensions & Weight: • Folded: 155.2 x 76.0 x 10.1 mm
• Unfolded: 155.2 x 150.4 x 5.0 mm
• Weight: 239 grams
Rear Cameras: • Main: 48MP Wide (f/1.7, OIS)
• Ultrawide: 10.5MP (f/2.2, Macro Focus)
• Telephoto: 10.8MP (f/3.1, 5x Optical, 30x Super Res Zoom)
Front Cameras: • Cover: 10MP Ultrawide (f/2.2)
• Inner: 10MP Ultrawide (f/2.2)
Battery & Charging: 4,750 mAh battery
30W wired charging (50% in 30 mins)
Up to 25W Qi2.2 wireless charging
Build & Protection: Aerospace-grade aluminum frame, glass fiber   composite back, IP68 water/dust resistance
OS and Software: Android 17 with integrated Gemini Intelligence
Colors: Olive and Obsidian

Pre-orders for the Google Pixel 11 Pro Fold opened on August 12, 2026, with official in-store availability beginning August 20, 2026.

  • 256GB / 16GB RAM: $1,899
  • 512GB / 16GB RAM: $1,999
  • 1TB / 16GB RAM: $2,199

Google Announces Pixel 11 Series: Pixel 11, Pixel 11 Pro and Pixel 11 Pro XL

August 13, 2026
Google Announces Pixel 11 Series: Pixel 11, Pixel 11 Pro and Pixel 11 Pro XL

Google officially announced its next-generation smartphone lineup—the Pixel 11, Pixel 11 Pro and Pixel 11 Pro XL —at its annual “Made by Google” event in New York City. The lineup introduces new silicon, redesigned camera hardware, brighter displays, and deeper AI integration driven by Android 17.

The entire series runs on the Tensor G6 Chipset, manufactured on an advanced 2nm process and paired with the Titan M3 security co-processor for faster processing, improved energy efficiency, and tighter security. Google has retired the 128GB tier, establishing 256GB Standard Base Storage across all four models. Network performance gets a boost from the integrated MediaTek M90 modem, delivering faster 5G speeds and lower thermal output. Software performance is driven by Gemini Intelligence baked directly into Android 17, providing contextual real-time assistance, conversation summarization, and AI camera processing. Hardware additions include the Pixelsnap Magnetic Ecosystem for Qi2 wireless alignment, alongside HiLight—a new ambient notification and status LED array on the Pro models.

Feature Pixel 11 Pixel 11 Pro Pixel 11 Pro XL
Display: 6.3″ Actua OLED (60–120Hz, 3,000 nits) 6.3″ Super Actua LTPO (1–120Hz, 3,600 nits) 6.8″ Super Actua LTPO (1–120Hz, 3,600 nits)
Processor: Tensor G6 + Titan M3 Tensor G6 + Titan M3 Tensor G6 + Titan M3
RAM: 12GB 12GB / 16GB 12GB / 16GB
Storage Options: 256GB / 512GB 256GB / 512GB / 1TB 256GB / 512GB / 1TB
Rear Cameras: • 48MP Wide (f/1.70) • 13MP Ultrawide (f/2.2) • 10.8MP 5x Telephoto • 50MP Wide (f/1.68) • 48MP Ultrawide (f/1.7) • 48MP 5x Telephoto (120x Zoom) • 50MP Wide (f/1.68) • 48MP Ultrawide (f/1.7) • 48MP 5x Telephoto (120x Zoom)
Front Camera: 10.5MP 42MP 42MP
Battery & Charging: 4,985 mAh (30W wired, Qi2) 4,850 mAh (30W wired, Qi2) 5,115 mAh (30W wired, Qi2)
Colors: Pistachio , Hibiscus, Frost and Obsidian Canyon, Fog, Olive, and an all-matte Obsidian Canyon, Fog, Olive, and an all-matte Obsidian
Starting Price: $899 $1,099 $1,299

Google announced that pre-orders opened on August 12, 2026, immediately following the launch event. All three devices will be available on store shelves starting August 20, 2026.

  • Google Pixel 11: Starts at $899 for (256GB model).
  • Google Pixel 11 Pro: Starts at $1,099 (256GB model).
  • Google Pixel 11 Pro XL: Starts at $1,299 (256GB model).

POCO M8 Power Announced

August 6, 2026
POCO M8 Power Announced

POCO has officially expanded its lineup with the launch of the POCO M8 Power, marking the fourth smartphone entry in the M8 series. Engineered as an endurance powerhouse, the device pairs multi-day battery capability with a high-refresh-rate display and long-term software support.

Here are the key features of the new POCO M8 Power;

  • 8,000 mAh Battery: The cornerstone of the M8 Power is its massive 8,000 mAh battery. POCO advertises up to 28 hours of video playback, 14 hours of gaming, 31 hours of social media use, 11 hours of navigation, or 38 days of standby. It supports 45W wired fast charging alongside 22.5W reverse wired charging, allowing it to power other accessories on the go.
  • 6.9-inch 120Hz AMOLED Display: Up front, the POCO M8 Power features a 6.9-inch FHD+ AMOLED screen with a smooth 120Hz refresh rate, protected by Gorilla Glass 7i and anchored by an in-display fingerprint scanner for biometric security.
  • Snapdragon Performance & Expandable Storage: Under the hood, it runs on Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 4 Gen 4 SoC, paired with up to 8GB LPDDR4X RAM and 128GB UFS 2.2 internal storage, which is expandable via a dedicated microSD slot.
  • 6 Years of Security Support: Out of the box, the phone boots HyperOS 3 based on Android 16. POCO promises up to 4 major OS upgrades and 6 years of security patches.
  • Durable Design & Cameras: Equipped with an IP65 rating for dust and water resistance, the phone measures 8.45mm in thickness and weighs 225g. Photography is handled by a 50MP main camera (Light Fusion 400) and an 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide) selfie camera.

You can checkout POCO M8 Power here.

Sales officially open in India on August 7, 2026, exclusively via Flipkart. The POCO M8 Power comes in three finishes: Blaze Orange, Black, and Green, with the following pricing;

Configuration Retail Price
6GB RAM / 128GB Storage ₹24,999.00
8GB RAM / 128GB Storage ₹27,999.00

Apple Pay now available in the Philippines

August 4, 2026
Apple Pay now available in the Philippines

Apple has officially announced that Apple Pay is now available in the Philippines, enabling a fast, secure, and touchless way for local consumers to pay using their iPhone, Apple Watch, iPad, or Mac. This milestone aligns with the country’s ongoing shift toward a cashless economy, joining over 90 regions worldwide where the digital wallet is already integrated into daily transactions.

The initial rollout features support from major financial institutions, including UnionBank, Metrobank, China Bank, and GoTyme Bank. Eligible Visa and Mastercard credit and debit cardholders can easily digitize their cards by opening the native Apple Wallet app and following the quick setup prompts.

SUPPORTED LAUNCH PARTNERS
UnionBank Visa & Mastercard (Credit/Debit)
Metrobank Visa & Mastercard (Credit/Debit)
China   Bank Visa & Mastercard (Credit/Debit)
GoTyme   Bank Visa (Debit)

Transactions rely on Near Field Communication (NFC) technology, allowing users to make tap-to-pay purchases anywhere contactless payments are accepted—including major retailers like Ayala Malls, Rustan’s, Jollibee, and Power Mac Center. Security remains paramount; card details are never stored on device hardware or Apple servers, utilizing tokenization and biometric authentication via Face ID or Touch ID instead. Additional issuing banks are expected to join the network in upcoming phases.

To setup your Apple Pay, you can follow the steps here to your Apple Devices or the video below.

Francisco Motors Announces Philippine-Made EV: The Elektron Compact SUV

July 29, 2026
Francisco Motors Announces Philippine-Made EV: The Elektron Compact SUV

All Things EV;

Unveiled as the brand’s first all-electric compact crossover SUV, the Elektron marks a dramatic evolution for the 79-year-old automaker. While Francisco Motors built its legacy as the “King of the Road,” the Elektron signals an ambitious leap toward positioning the Philippines on the global stage for Next-Energy Vehicles (NEVs).

  • Length: 4,640 mm
  • Width: 1,870 mm
  • Height: 1,655 mm
  • Wheelbase: 2,760 mm
  • Luggage Capacity: 450 liters
  • Seating: 5 passengers
  • Color Palette: Moon White, Lemon Yellow, Natron Red, Stellar Black, and Oasis Green

Inside, the cabin takes a tech-forward approach with a large central infotainment touchscreen, a digital instrument cluster, and a sleek rotary gear selector. Depending on the trim, buyers can equip the Elektron with a panoramic sunroof, dual-zone automatic climate control, ambient lighting, wireless charging pads, power-adjustable heated and ventilated memory seats, and a 10-speaker audio system.

Finally… an EV brand by Francisco Motors, who made a name for themselves by defining Filipino public transportation- the Jeepney.

Francisco Motors is launching the Elektron in three distinct variants catering to daily commuters, range-focused drivers, and performance enthusiasts:

Variant Battery Capacity Motor Setup Power / Torque 0–100 km/h Top Speed Estimated Range
Basic 54.9 kWh (LFP) Single Motor (FWD) Standard 7.7 sec 160 km/h 400+ km
Fashion 63.2 kWh Single Motor (FWD) Standard 7.7 sec 160 km/h 500+ km
Deluxe 81.5 kWh Dual Motor (AWD) 340 kW / 640 Nm 4.3 sec 180 km/h Extended High Capacity

The top-tier Deluxe variant delivers a staggering 340 kW (approximately 456 hp) and 640 Nm of torque, pushing the EV from standstill to 100 km/h in just 4.3 seconds.

The starting price of Elektron is at ₱1,947,000, for the Deluxe personal-use configuration. The company added that “Prices, specifications, warranties, financing arrangements, production schedules, and delivery dates for those configurations have not yet been announced.”