OPPO has officially announce the Find N3, the first horizontal foldable by the company to be available outside China. The Find N3 features a number of improvements over the previous generation, including a more powerful processor, a larger and brighter display, and a better camera system.
The Find N3 is powered by the Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, which is the fastest mobile processor on the market. The phone also has 16GB of LPDDR5X RAM and 512GB of storage.
The Find N3 has a 7.82-inch AMOLED display on the inside and a 6.31 inches display on the outside. The inner display has a resolution of 2440 × 2268 pixels and a refresh rate of 120Hz. The outer display has a resolution of 2484 × 1116 pixels and a refresh rate of 120Hz, Min 10Hz.
The Find N3 has a triple-lens rear camera system with a 48MP Sony LYTIA-T808 “pixel stacked” sensor, 48MP sensor ultrawide lens with autofocus and then 64MP zoom camera sensor with a 3x 70mm f/2.6 stabilized periscope lens. AS for the front shooters, the OPPO Find N3 uses dual-selfie cameras; 20MP Main screen and 32MP for cover screen.
The Find N3 runs ColorOS 13.2, which is based on Android 13. The phone has a 4805mAh battery that supports 67W SUPERVOOC 2.0, SUPERVOOC, VOOC 3.0, PD3.0 (9V/2A) fast charging. You can find the full specs here.
The OPPO Find N3 is available Classic Black and Champagne Gold colors. Even though the device was launched globally, it will initially be available in Singapore for SGD 2,399 (SAR 6,552.67, converted). Preoders will be open tomorrow October 20, 2023.
Xeleqt AI, a startup that develops artificial intelligence-powered solutions for the financial industry, has won the Grand Prize at the Start-up Innovation Challenge at the PH Digicon 2023.
Xeleqt AI is an IoT-enabled business-to-employee platform that helps businesses automate their operations, improve productivity and services. The company’s platform is already being used by a number of leading companies in the Philippines and around the world.
Together with Xeleqt AI, Mylo Speech Buddy and Vison Technologies won the contest, placing 1st and 2nd runner-ups, respectively.
The winners of the Start-up Innovation Challenge receive a number of prizes like; cash prizes of Php250,000 (1st), Php200,000 (2nd) and Php150,000 (3rd); mentorship, and access to resources and support from PLDT Enterprise and Smart Communications.
Xeleqt AI wins the Grand Prize at the Start-up Innovation Challenge at #PHDigicon2023!
Congratulations as well to Mylo Speech Buddy and Vison Technologies for winning 1st and 2nd runner-ups, respectively.
The PH Digicon is the largest digital technology conference in the Philippines. The conference brings together leaders from the government, industry, and academia to discuss the latest trends and developments in digital technology.
X, the service formerly known as Twitter, is testing a new subscription service for new and unverified accounts to sign up for a $1 annual subscription to be able to post & interact with other posts. The service will only not affect existing users.
The “Not A Bot” service was created to “successful efforts to reduce spam, manipulation of our platform and bot activity, while balancing platform accessibility with the small fee amount.” The company added that this service “is not a profit driver.”
Starting today, we're testing a new program (Not A Bot) in New Zealand and the Philippines. New, unverified accounts will be required to sign up for a $1 annual subscription to be able to post & interact with other posts. Within this test, existing users are not affected.
In a support article, the company explained that “New users who opt out of subscribing will only be able to take “read only” actions, such as: Read posts, Watch videos, and Follow accounts.”
It’s unclear how this test will affect potential new users but for me, as a rule of thumb, if an online service have been free for a long time charging to use the said service will be a big no for me.
Intel has officially announced the launch of its 14th Generation Core desktop processors. The new lineup, based on the refreshed Raptor Lake architecture, includes the Core i9-14900K/KF, the Core i7-14700K/KF, and the Core i5-14600K/KF2.
The 14th Gen Core desktop processors come in a variety of configurations, delivering up to 24 cores and 32 threads and up to 6 GHz of frequency right out of the box. The top-of-the-line Core i9-14900K processor has a boost frequency of up to6 GHz speeds, making it the fastest desktop processor from Intel to date.
In addition to the performance improvements, the 14th Gen Core desktop processors also include a number of new features, such as support for DDR5 5600 and DDR4 3200 memory speeds. The processors also feature Intel’s new Thread Director technology, which intelligently allocates workloads to the right cores at the right time.
The new 14th gen chips will feature integrated support for Wi-Fi 6/6E and Bluetooth 5.3, as well as discrete support for Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.42. There is also support for Thunderbolt 4 as well as upcoming Thunderbolt 5 wired connectivity – supporting up to 80 Gbps of bi-directional bandwidth.
Let your imagination run wild and create something revolutionary with the new #IntelCore 14th Gen Processors—our best desktop processor to date.
Intel Core 14th Gen desktop processors will be available at retail outlets and via OEM partner systems starting Oct. 17, 2023. They will be compatible with existing 600/700-series motherboards.
Pricing for the new Intel Core 14th Gen desktop processors will be the same as the previous generations, Core i9-14900K at $589, Core i7-1700K at $409, and the Core i5-14600K for $319.
The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) confirms that a cybersecurity incident involving the House of Representatives (HOR) website occurred on Sunday, 15 October 2023.
The HOR immediately put the website offline to prevent further unauthorized access and reported the incident to the DICT – Philippine National Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-PH).
CERT-PH is conducting an investigation to determine if sensitive data has been exfiltrated by the threat actor.
Recommendations were likewise provided to the HOR IT Team to prevent future security breaches on their website.
The DICT informs the public that the HOR website shall be online soon with its security vulnerabilities already addressed.
The next stages of the investigation on the incident, which include threat actor attribution and case build-up, shall be pursued by the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center, in coordination with our law enforcement agencies.
The DICT reaffirms its commitment to be an active partner of government agencies as they fulfill the primary responsibility of safeguarding their own ICT systems and infrastructure against cyber threats.
By:
Renato A. Paraiso
Assistant Secretary for Legal Affairs
DICT Spokesperson
pio@dict.gov.ph
At the sametime, DICT also release a Tagalog version of their statement.
Yesterday, the website of the House of Representative (HoR) was hacked by the hacker group 3MUSKETEERZ, defacing it with the troll face meme captioned it “You’ve been hacked. Have a nice Day! Happy April Fullz Kahit October Palang! Fix your website.” and changed its content with the same messaging.
Website of House of Representative (Congress) have been hacked and defaced by 3MUSKETEERZ.
The group used troll face meme captioned it “You’ve been hacked. Have a nice Day! Happy April Fullz Kahit October Palang! Fix your website.” The group even changed its content with the same messaging.
The official X (twitter) account (@HouseofRepsPH) already release a statement and that they are currently working with Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) and law enforcement agencies concerned to investigate the matter.
PRESS STATEMENT
Secretary General Reginald Velasco
We wish to inform the public that the official website of the House of Representatives experienced unauthorized access earlier today. Immediate steps have been taken to address the issue, and we are working closely with the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) and law enforcement agencies concerned to investigate the matter.
While we work to restore the website fully, we ask for patience and understanding. We are committed to ensure the security and integrity of our digital platforms, and we will implement additional measures to prevent such incidents in the future.
For the moment, we advise the public to be cautious of any suspicious emails or communications that claim to be from the House of Representatives.
We will keep the public updated as more information becomes available.
As of this posting, the website is currently offline and accessing the website http://www.congress.gov.ph/ will just give you the standard “This site can’t be reached” message.
Microsoft has officially acquire Activision Blizzard for $68.7 billion, the deal has now been finalized after a lengthy regulatory review. The announcement was made by both company and published official statement on their respective website. Bobby Kotick will continue to serve as CEO of Activision Blizzard, and he and his team will maintain their focus on driving efforts to further strengthen the company’s culture and accelerate business growth. Once the deal closes, the Activision Blizzard business will report to Phil Spencer, CEO, Microsoft Gaming and will be part of Microsoft’s Xbox Team.
Activision Blizzard is one of the largest and most successful video game companies in the world. It is the publisher of popular franchises such as Call of Duty, World of Warcraft, Candy Crush, and Diablo. Microsoft is already a major player in the gaming industry with its Xbox console and Xbox Game Pass subscription service. However, the acquisition of Activision Blizzard gives Microsoft a significant boost in market share and makes it the third-largest gaming company in the world, behind Tencent and Sony.
When the deal was first announced, it faced regulatory pushback and was delayed due to concerns about competition in the cloud gaming market. To address these concerns, Microsoft made several concessions, including giving consumers in the European Economic Area free licenses to stream their Activision Blizzard games. Microsoft also signed agreements with console rivals Nintendo and Sony, promising them access to Call of Duty games for 10 years.
The UK’s Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) was the last regulator to approve the deal. The CMA stated that the concessions made by Microsoft were a “game-changer” that would allow for competitive prices and better services.
In the wake of the PhilHealth Hacking, Philippines’ National Privacy Commission (NPC) launches the “Na-leak ba ang PhilHealth Data ko? Portal. The “Na-leak ba ang PhilHealth Data ko? Portal is a tool to check if your personal data is included in the PhilHealth cyberattack last Sept 22.
NPC explained that “Na-leak ba ang PhilHealth Data ko? Portal is a “simplified database search portal designed to help individuals verify the status of their personal information in light of the recent incident involving the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) database, purportedly exfiltrated by the Medusa Ransomware Group, and posted online on October 5, 2023. As of October 13, 2023, the initial batch of data available on the portal pertains to individuals aged 60 years and above, containing an estimated 1 million records out of 8.5 million senior citizens.”
To access the “Na-leak ba ang PhilHealth Data ko? database search tool, visit: https://philhealthleak.privacy.gov.ph, then just provide your PhilHealth Identification Number (PIN) to know if you are part of the leaked database.
PRESS RELEASE
Empowering PhilHealth Data Subjects: Check Your PhilHealth Data Security with NPC’s “Na-leak ba ang PhilHealth Data ko? Portal
To access the "Na-leak ba ang PhilHealth Data ko? database search tool, visit: https://t.co/2dBOZ7bzgW
Huawei just announced its first gold edition smartwatch, the Huawei Watch Ultimate Design. The Huawei Watch Ultimate Design is a premium smartwatch with a sleek design and long battery life. It is powered by the latest Wear OS operating system and features a number of powerful features, including a built-in GPS, heart rate monitor, and sleep tracker.
Experience the Huawei's first gold smartwatch, allure of the #HUAWEIWATCHULTIMATEDESIGN. With rudder-like black nanocrystal ceramic bezel and six 18K gold inlay — radiating timeless and classic elegance for your sophisticated persona.#FashionForwardpic.twitter.com/wSwFkTo0uA
The Huawei Watch Ultimate Design has a 46mm stainless steel case with a 18K gold and nanocrystal ceramic bezel and sapphire crystal lens. The watch is available in two colors: Gold and black.
The Huawei Watch Ultimate Design has a 1.5 inches LTPO AMOLED color screen with a resolution of 466 × 466 pixels, PPI 311. The display is bright and clear, and it is easy to see in all lighting conditions.
Overall, the Huawei Watch Ultimate Design is a premium smartwatch with a sleek design and long battery life.
14-day maximum battery life
8-day typical battery life
4-day battery life with Always On Display enabled
You can checkout the full specs of the full specs here.
Huawei Watch Ultimate Design is now available for preorder with an SRP of AED 10,999.00 or around SAR 11,232.30. In the Philippines, the Huawei Watch Ultimate Design will retail for ₱159,999.00.
X, formerly known as twitter, just announced that it now has roll-out a feature that allows you to control you can reply to your posts. This feature will be available to your new and even old posts.
There are two ways to control who can reply/comment on your posts;
1. When composing your post, go to the EVERYONE CAN REPLY and the screen to set “WHO CAN REPLY?” will appear.
For published posts, just click/tap on the (…) that’s on the right corner of the post and go to CHANGE WHO CAN REPLY.
The new feature is a good way to filter our users who does nothing but spam in the service and also limit those who can interact with you in X/twitter. For now, the features appears to be available to everyone using the service and won’t surprise me if in this will only be available to verified accounts.
Google has recently announced its latest flagship smartphones, the Google Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro. These devices are engineered by Google and built with AI at the center for a more helpful and personal experience.
Design and Display
The Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro are elegantly designed with softer silhouettes, beautiful metal finishes, and recycled materials. The Pixel 8 features a 6.2-inch Actua display with 1080 x 2400 resolution, Smooth Display (60–120 Hz), Corning® Gorilla® Glass Victus® cover glass and Always-on display with At a Glance and Now Playing features. Google claim that it is brighter than the Pixel 7’s display. It comes in Rose, Hazel, and Obsidian colors.
The Pixel 8 Pro, on the other hand, boasts a 6.7-inch Super Actua display with 1344 x 2992 resolution, Smooth Display (1–120 Hz) and just liek with the Pixel 8, it features “Always-on display with At a Glance and Now Playing”, this is Google’s brightest display yet with up to 1600 nits (HDR) and up to 2400 nits (peak brightness). It comes in Porcelain, Bay, and Obsidian colors.
Google Pixel 8
Performance
The Pixel 8 comes with a basic 8GB RAM package, and up to 256GB of storage. The Pixel 8 Pro gets a more muscular 12GB of RAM, with 128GB, 256GB or 512GB storage by default — while a 1TB option will be offered in certain markets.
Both phones are powered by the Google Tensor G3, which is based on a nine-core CPU configuration (1×3.0 GHz Cortex-X3 & 4×2.45 GHz Cortex-A715 & 4×2.15 GHz Cortex-A510) and an Immortalis-G715s MC10 GPU, and Titan M2 security coprocessor.
Camera
Every camera on the Pixel 8 Pro has been upgraded. The main 50 MP Octa PD wide camera captures better photos and videos in low-light settings. The bigger 48 MP Quad PD ultrawide camera with autofocus delivers even better Macro Focus, the 48 MP Quad PD telephoto camera captures 56% more light and takes 10x photos at optical quality, and the front-facing 10.5 MP Dual PD selfie camera now has autofocus for the best selfies on a Pixel phone.
The Pixel 8 has the same updated 50 MP Octa PD wide camera, plus a new 12 MP ultrawide camera with autofocus that enables Macro Focus. It uses the same 10.5 MP Dual PD selfie camera, as the Pixel 8 Pro.
Google Pixel 8 Pro
Battery
The Pixel 8 Pro is equipped with a Li-Ion 5050 mAh battery, while the Pixel 8 uses 4575 mAh, both provides long-lasting performance.
Software
One of the key selling points of Google’s Pixel phones is their software support. The Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro will get seven years of software updates, including Android OS upgrades, security updates, and regular Feature Drops.
Additional Features
Both phones come with an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance (up to 1.5m for 30 min). They also support Wi-Fi 7 (802.11be) with 2.4GHz+5GHz+6GHz,2×2+2×2 MIMO, Bluetooth 5.3, GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, QZSS, NFC and USB Type-C® 3.2.
For the full specs of Google Pixel 8, you can go here and for Google Pixel 8 Pro, you can check it out here.
The Google Pixel 8 and 8 Pro are now available for preorder; the Pixel 8 will start at $699 for the 128 GB variant and $759 for the 256 model. The Pixel Pro 8 will retail for $999.00 for the 128 GB, $1,059.00 for the 256 GB and $1,179.00 for the 512 GB model.
PhilHealth has once again release an announcement that they are calling “Urgent Notice to the Public,” this is in connection to the Cyberattack that was made last Sept 22. The health agency reiterates that no member information have been taken and that membership database is intact and unharmed by the cyberattack last Sept 22.
They later reminded the public to be cautious in opening malicious contents online and on social media, which I suppose, is directed to PhilHealth’s employees. The agency is also working with the authorities to catch the perpetrators.
PhilHealth is currently working with multiple agencies that includes Department of Communication Technology (DICT), National Privacy Commission (NPC), Philippine National Police Cybercrime Division, Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) and the National Bureau of Investigation(NBI) to identify the perpetrators of the hacking.
Here’s the announcement by PhilHealth:
#MyPhilHealth reiterates that its membership database is intact and unharmed by the cyberattack last Sept 22.
The Corporation urges the public to be cautious in opening malicious contents online and on social media. It is working with the authorities to catch the perpetrators. pic.twitter.com/bvxgBsJ7Q9
PhilHealth previously posted a Urgent Notice to the Public explaining what information have been compromised in the cyberattack that happened last Sept 22. Below are compromised PhilHealth member’s information;
Name
Address
Date of Birth
Sex
Phone number
PhilHealth ID number
The Health agency also recommended a number of steps that affected PhilHealth Members can take as a precaution.
The hackers demanded a ransom of $300,000 or approximately P17 million as payment to decrypt the files but according to a report by CNN Philippines, “The DICT confirms that some PhilHealth data affected in the Medusa ransomware attack have been published in the dark web after the deadline to pay ransom money to hackers lapsed.”
BREAKING: The DICT confirms that some PhilHealth data affected in the Medusa ransomware attack have been published in the dark web after the deadline to pay ransom money to hackers lapsed.
Counter-Strike 2, the sequel to the popular first-person shooter game Counter-Strike: Global Offensive, was released on September 27, 2023. The game was developed by Valve and is available for free on Steam.
Counter-Strike 2 features a number of new features and improvements over its predecessor, including:
Built on the Source 2 engine, which provides sharper graphics, more realistic physics, and better performance.
Includes a number of new maps and weapons, as well as updated versions of classic maps and weapons from the 10 year old Counter-Strike: Global Offensive.
Together with the updated classic game mode, there will be new modes available in the CS 2.
The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), through its Cybersecurity Bureau, proactively responded to address a ransomware attack that targeted the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) last September 22, 2023.
Upon learning of the breach, the DICT Cybersecurity Bureau’s National Computer Emergency Response Team (NCERT) went to PhilHealth Head Office and implemented critical security measures which included the disconnection of workstations from the network, prompt coordination with PhilHealth to gauge the extent of the attack, and collection of relevant logs for thorough analysis.
As of September 25, 2023, PhilHealth’s critical web services are only accessible via their IP addresses and currently ongoing comprehensive security scanning. Efforts to restore the functionality of PhilHealth’s DNS server are underway.
The DICT condemns the ransomware attack carried out against PhilHealth in an attempt to illegally access the information of its members. We shall continue to investigate and monitor the acquired logs from PhilHealth’s affected systems. An extensive checklist has been prepared by the DICT to benchmark PhilHealth’s readiness to get their systems online.
The DICT is committed to ensuring the full restoration of security and stability in PhilHealth systems and to safeguarding government systems and infrastructure from malicious cyber threats.
Meta has just announced the Meta Quest 3, the next generation of its popular virtual reality headset. The Quest 3 is scheduled to be released next month, and it is expected to be a significant upgrade over the current Quest 2 headset.
One of the most notable improvements in the Quest 3 is its display. The Quest 3 has a higher 4K “Infinite Display,” a up to 30% increase compared to Meta Quest 2 along with better spatial audio. The Quest 3 also has 110 degrees horizontal and 96 degrees vertical field of view, which is wider than the Quest 2, which will make VR games and experiences feel more realistic.
Another major improvement in the Quest 3 is its performance. The Quest 3 is powered by a new Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 processor, which is double the GPU processing power for faster load times and more seamless gameplay compared to Meta Quest 2. This will allow the Quest 3 to run VR games and experiences at higher frame rates and with better graphics.
Meta Quest Touch Plus Controllers
Meta Quest 3 Interior
Meta Quest 3 Front
From L to R: Meta Quest 3 Headset, 2 Touch Plus Controllers with wrist straps and 2 AA Batteries, Charging cable & power adapter
The Meta Quest 3 also has a number of other improvements over the Quest 2, including:
A more comfortable, lightweight and ergonomic design
A longer-lasting battery;
Up to 2.2 hours of usage on average
Gaming: 2.4 hours of usage on average
Social: 2.2 hours of usage on average
Productivity: 1.5 hours of usage on average
Media: 2.9 hours of usage on average
A new hand tracking system that is more accurate and responsive
A new pair of Touch Plus Controllers that are more ergonomic and easier to use
You can check the full specs of the Meta Quest 3 here.
Price for the new Quest 3 is $499.99 for the 128GB model and $649.99 for the 512 GB model. It is available for preorder and will be shipped by mid October, and for those will be preorder, a free copy of Asgard’s Wrath 2 will be included. For those preordering the the 512GB model, and you get the game plus six-month Meta Quest+ subscription.
The Communications, Space and Technology Commission (CST) of Saudi Arabia has announced that the new regulation requiring all mobile phone operators to display the caller’s name and ID will take effect on October 1, 2023.
This new regulation is aimed at reducing the number of spam and scam calls received by mobile phone users in Saudi Arabia. It will also help to improve the safety and security of mobile phone users.
Under the new regulation, all mobile phone operators will be required to display the caller’s name and ID on the recipient’s phone screen before the call is answered. If the caller’s name and ID are not available, the caller’s phone number will be displayed instead.
The caller’s name and ID will be obtained from a central database that is maintained by the CST. The database will contain the names and IDs of all mobile phone subscribers in Saudi Arabia.
Mobile phone users can choose to have their names and IDs displayed to all callers, or they can choose to have their names and IDs displayed only to callers who are in their contact list.
The new regulation also requires mobile phone operators to provide their subscribers with the ability to block unwanted calls. Subscribers will be able to block calls from specific phone numbers, or they can block all calls from unknown numbers.
The CST has stated that the new regulation is part of its ongoing efforts to improve the quality of mobile phone services in Saudi Arabia. The CST is also working to protect mobile phone users from spam, scams, and other forms of fraud. Mobily, STC, Zain and Virgin Mobile are the top mobile provider in the country and are expected to comply with this new regulation.
The new regulation is expected to have a positive impact on mobile phone users in Saudi Arabia. It will help to reduce the number of unwanted calls, and it will improve the safety and security of mobile phone users.
vivo Philippines has officially announced the V29 5G and V29e smartphones in the country. The two new devices come with improved cameras and performance over their predecessors, making them attractive options for those looking for a new mid-range smartphone.
The vivo V29 5G features a 6.78-inch mid-hole curved screen with a 2800×1260 pixels resolution it supports refresh rates of up to 120Hz and 2160Hz high-frequency PWM dimming, for a vivid and smooth visual experience. It is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 778G processor, paired with 12GB of RAM and up to 512GB of storage.
The vivo V29 5G has a triple-camera system on the back, consisting of a 50MP main sensor with OIS, an 8MP ultrawide sensor, and a 2MP monochrome sensor. On the front, there is a 50MP AF selfie camera.
Image: vivo V29e
The vivo V29e has a similar design to the vivo V29, but it features a slightly smaller 6.78-inch AMOLED display with 2400 × 1080 (FHD+) resolution. It is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 processor, paired with 8GB of RAM and up to 256GB of storage.
The vivo V29e has a dual-camera system on the back, consisting of a 64MP main sensor with OIS and an 8MP wide-anglesensor. On the front, there is a 50 MP AF selfie camera.
The battery for vivo V29 and V29e will be 4600 mAh (TYP) and 5000 mAh (TYP), respectively. Both vivo V29 and V29e supports 80W fast charging. They also run on Android 13 with Funtouch OS 13 right out of the box.
You can checkout the unboxing video below:
The vivo V29 is priced at ₱24,999 for the 12GB/256GB model and ₱26,999 for the 12GB/512GB model. The vivo V29e is priced at PHP 16,999 for the 8GB/256GB variant.
Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) has introduced the new Hilux GR-Sport (GR-S), a more performance-oriented version of the country’s best-selling pickup. The Hilux GR-S is inspired by the Dakar-winning Hilux, and it features a number of upgrades that make it more capable on and off the road.
The Hilux GR-S has a wider track and a raised ride height, which gives it a more imposing stance and improved stability. The truck also comes with new 17-inch alloy GR design wheels with All-Terrain Tires, and the GR Aero sports bar.
Under the hood, the Hilux GR-S is powered by a 2.8L diesel engine that produces 224 PS and 550 Nm of torque. Additionally, the New Hilux GR-S includes GR front and rear disc brakes with GR brake calipers, and monotube shock absorbers, enhancing overall driving experience on or off the roads. These upgrades improve the truck’s handling and braking performance.
Inside, the Hilux GR-S features a sporty black interior with GR-S suede and leather seats, a leather steering wheel with a GR-S emblem, and leather door trims with technical mesh and red seatbelts for that sporty feel. 9-inch Display Audio with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and a Wireless Charger add spirit to every adventure in the New Hilux GR-S, while functions such as Smart Entry and Push Start System offer convenience in each ride.
The Hilux GR-S will have Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) and Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) for additional safety features. It is also equipped with Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) and other safety features such as a Panoramic View Monitor (PVM), Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Hill-Start Assist Control (HAC), and Downhill Assist Control (DAC).
The Toyota Hilux GR-S is now available at all Toyota dealerships nationwide. It is priced at P2,166,000 for the Attitude Black Mica colorway and P2,186,000 for the Emotional Red and Super White II / Attitude Black Mica (2-tone) colorways.
The new Toyota Hilux GR-Sport is a great choice for pickup truck buyers who are looking for a more performance-oriented vehicle. The truck is also a good choice for buyers who want a pickup truck with a more aggressive and sporty appearance.
The Hilux GR-S is also a good choice for buyers who want a pickup truck that is capable of handling both on-road and off-road driving conditions. The truck’s wider track, raised ride height, and all-terrain tires make it well-suited for driving on rough roads and trails.
On September 20, 2023, Delivery Hero, the parent company of Foodpanda, announced that it was in talks to sell its Foodpanda business in Southeast Asia. The move comes as Delivery Hero is facing increasing competition from other online food delivery platforms in the region, such as Grab and Gojek.
The potential sale of Foodpanda is significant, as the company is one of the leading online food delivery platforms in Southeast Asia. Foodpanda operates in eleven Southeast Asian countries, including Bangladesh, Cambodia, Hong Kong, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Pakistan, Philippines, Singapore, Taiwan and Thailand. The company has over 10 million users and over 60,000 restaurants on its platform.
The potential buyer of Foodpanda is reportedly Grab, the Singapore-based ride-hailing and super-app. Grab is already the leading ride-hailing platform in Southeast Asia, and it is also expanding into other verticals, such as food delivery, payments, and financial services.
The sale of Foodpanda would create a dominant player in the Southeast Asian online food delivery market. Grab would have access to Foodpanda’s large customer base and network of restaurants. This would give Grab a significant advantage over its competitors. The sale of Foodpanda would also have implications for consumers, since this will lessen the competition, which could potentially raise prices or reduce discounts after acquiring the food delivery company.
On the otherhand, the sale of Foodpanda could also lead to improved innovation and efficiency in the Southeast Asian online food delivery market. Grab could use its resources to invest in new technologies and improve its services. This could benefit both consumers and restaurants.
The negotiations are in their preliminary stages and it is uncertain and subject to various open points whether this will lead to a definitive agreement. However, the potential sale of Foodpanda is a significant event that could have a major impact on the online food delivery market in Southeast Asia.
Foodpanda released an official statement regarding a potential sale of its business in selected Southeast Asia Markets. | via Bernie C. Magkilat pic.twitter.com/QBBU4eGnbW
On September 22, 2023, the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) was hit by a ransomware attack. The attack was carried out by the Medusa ransomware group, which encrypts files and demands a ransom payment for the decryption key. The hackers responsible for the attack have demanded a ransom of $300,000 or approximately P17 million as payment to decrypt the files.
PhilHealth detected the attack early on Friday and immediately shut down all of its online systems, including its website, portals, and e-claims. The agency is currently working with the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) and other government agencies to investigate the incident and restore its systems.
Humihiling ng pang-unawa ang #MyPhilHealth sa publiko matapos maapektuhan ang operasyon nito dahil sa information security incident kahapon, Sept 22, 2023.
In a statement, PhilHealth assured the public and its members that their personal and medical information was not compromised or leaked in the attack. However, the attack did disrupt the agency’s operations and caused some inconvenience to its members.
Sa kabila ng information security incident, sinisiguro ng #MyPhilHealth na hindi nakompromiso ang impormasyon ng mga miyembro at patuloy pa ring makagagamit ng benepisyo sa mga accredited health facilities. pic.twitter.com/J1MjCHkXAp
On September 25, PhilHealth announced they are working to restore all of its systems and that its members could now avail of its benefits again. The agency also said that it was implementing additional security measures to prevent future attacks.
Together with the Redmi Note 13 Pro Plus, Xiaomi also announced the Redmi Note 13 and 13 Pro, the latest additions to its popular Redmi Note series. The new phones feature a number of upgrades over their predecessors, including improved displays, cameras, and performance.
The Redmi Note 13 and Note 13 Pro have the same 6.67” FHD+ AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate and 1080 x 2400 resolutions. It has a 5,000,000:1 contrast ratio and Touch sampling rate of “Instantaneous up to 2160Hz.”
RedMi Note 13 Pro
The Redmi Note 13 is powered by MT Dimensity 6080 chip while the Note 13 Pro will have the Qualcomm Snapdragon 7s Gen2 and come with up to 16GB of RAM and up to 512GB of storage.
The Redmi Note 13 has a dual-lens rear camera system with a 100MP main sensor and a 2MP depth sensor. The Redmi Note 13 Pro has a tri-lens rear camera system with a 200 MP Samsung HP3 flagship main sensor, an 8MP f/2.2 ultrawide sensor and a 2MP macro sensor.
Both phones have a 16MP front-facing camera for selfies and video calls.
The Redmi Note 13 and 13 Pro both have large battery capacity, 5000mAh and 5100mAh batteries, respectively with both supporting 67W fast charging.
RedMi Note 13
Here is a summary of the key features of the Redmi Note 13 and 13 Pro:
RAM: Up to 16GB (Note 13 Pro)/ Up to 12GB (Note 13)
Storage: Up to 512 GB (Note 13 Pro) / 256GB (Note 13)
Rear camera: dual-lens system with 100MP main sensor (Redmi Note 13), triple-lens system with 200 MP Samsung HP3 flagship main sensor (Redmi Note 13 Pro)
The Redmi Note 13 and 13 Pro are now available in China on September 22, 2023. Global availability and pricing have not yet been announced. As for the price, the Redmi Note 13 starts at CNY 1,199 (SAR 616.27) that’s for the 6GB+128GB model, while the Redmi Note 13 Pro model of 8GB+128GB is priced at CNY 1,499 or around SAR 770.47.
The Redmi Note 13 and 13 Pro are great options for mid-range smartphone buyers who are looking for a phone with a good display, camera, and performance. The phones are also well-priced, making them a good value for money.
The Redmi Note 13 Pro Plus is the latest and most powerful model in the Redmi Note 13 series. It features a number of upgrades over the Redmi Note 13 and 13 Pro, including a larger and more powerful display, a more advanced camera system, and a faster processor.
The Redmi Note 13 Pro Plus has a 6.67-inch OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate and 1220 x 2712 resolution. The display is also HDR10+ certified, which means that it can display content with a wider range of colors and 1800 nits (peak) brightness, all covered in Corning Gorilla Glass Victus.
The Redmi Note 13 Pro Plus is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7200 Ultra CPU, which is one of the fastest processors available by MediaTek. It has up to 16GB of RAM and up to 512GB of storage. The phone also the series’ first-ever model to feature an IP68 water and dust resistance rating.
The Redmi Note 13 Pro Plus has a tri-lens rear camera system with a 200MP Samsung ISOCELL HP3 sensor, an 8MP ultrawide sensor, a 2MP macro sensor. The 200MP main sensor is the highest-resolution sensor ever used in a smartphone.
The Redmi Note 13 Pro Plus also has a 16MP front-facing camera for selfies and video calls.
The Redmi Note 13 Pro Plus has a 5000mAh battery with support for 120W fast charging. The company boasts that the phone can be fully charged in a matter of minutes.
Here is a summary of the key specs/features of the Redmi Note 13 Pro Plus:
Display: 6.7-inch AMOLED display with 120Hz refresh rate and curved design
Processor: MediaTek Dimensity 7200 Ultra CPU
RAM: Up to 16GB
Storage: Up to 512GB
Rear camera: tri-lens system with 200MP Samsung ISOCELL HP3 main sensor
Battery: 5000mAh with 120W fast charge.
The Redmi Note 13 Pro Plus is scheduled to be released in China on September 26, 2023. It has a starting price of CNY 1,999 (around SAR 1,027.47) for the 12GB + 256GB model and CNY 2,299 (SAR 1181.66) for the 16GB + 512GB model. Global availability and pricing have not yet been announced.
Nikon has announced the release of the Nikon Z f, a retro-inspired mirrorless camera with modern features. The Z f is the latest addition to Nikon’s Z-mount mirrorless system, and it is designed to appeal to photographers of all levels, from beginners to experienced professionals. The body is based on the Nikon’s iconic FM2 film camera.
The Nikon Z f features a Full Frame 24.5-megapixel sensor and the EXPEED 7 image-processing engine. It also has a vari-angle 8-cm touchscreen display, a built-in electronic viewfinder, and two memory card slots, one supporting SD cards and the other Micro SD cards.
One of the most striking things about the Z f is its retro design. The camera is inspired by Nikon’s classic FM2 film camera, and it features a number of retro design elements, such as a silver top plate, black body, and knurled dials.
Despite its retro design, the Z fc is a very modern camera. It features a number of advanced features, such as subject and autofocus detection, support focus-point VR, and 4K UHD video recording up to 60p.
Nikon Z f Rear Body
Nikon Z f Rear Body with Monitor
Nikon Z f Front Body
The Z f is also compatible with Nikon’s wide range of Z-mount lenses. This gives photographers a wide range of choices when it comes to choosing lenses for their camera.
The Nikon Z f is a great option for photographers who are looking for a retro-inspired camera with modern features. It is a versatile camera that can be used for a variety of photography genres, including portraiture, landscape, and street photography.
The Z f is scheduled to be released in July 2023, and it will be available in six Premium Exterior colors;Black, Sunset Orange, Bordeaux Red, Indogo Blue, Sepia Brown, Moss Green and Stone Grey.
Here are some of the key features of the Nikon Z f:
Full Frame 24.5-megapixel sensor
EXPEED 7 image-processing engine
vari-angle 8-cm touchscreen display
Built-in electronic viewfinder
Dual SD card slots
Subject and autofocus detection, with Manual Focus Subject Detection
10-bit 4K 60p Video
8 stops of VR
Touch Fn settings control
Compatible with Nikon’s Z-mount lenses
Dedicated Black and White Switch
Pixel Shift Shooting up to Approx. 96mp
You can checkout the full specs of Nikon Z f here.
The Nikon Z fc is a great new addition to Nikon’s Z-mount mirrorless system. It is a retro-inspired camera with modern features, and it is sure to appeal to a wide range of photographers.
The Nikon Zf will be available in a Black finish starting in mid-October for $2,000 body only. Body and kit lens with the retro-styled Nikkor Z 40mm f/2 SE lens for $2,240 or a Nikkor Z 24-70mm f/4 S lens for $2,600. For those who wants to buy additional color options; Sunset Orange, Bordeaux Red, Indogo Blue, Sepia Brown, Moss Green and Stone Grey, an additional $100.00 will be added to the $2000.00 price (body only). Color options will be available in limited quantities.
If you are in Saudi and want to preorder the new Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2, below are the pricing from the top retailer in the Kingdom.
Apple Watch Series 9 Aluminum 41mm
GPS – SR1,849.00
GPS + Cellular – SR2,249.00
45mm
GPS – SR1,969.00
GPS + Cellular – SR2,379.00
Stainless Steel 41mm (GPS + Cellular)
Rubber Band – SR3,149.00
Stainless steel Band – SR3,349.00
45mm (GPS + Cellular)
Rubber Band – SR3,379.00
Textile Band – SR3,379.00
Stainless steel Band – SR3,579.00
Apple Watch Ultra 2 on ALL BANDS – SR3,599.00
Just like with the new iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pros, the new Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 will be available on Sept 22nd.
If you are planning to buy the new iPhone this year, then you can checkout the Philippines pricing released by Apple or as posted in the Philippines Apple Online Store (https://www.apple.com/ph/store).
iPhone 15 Pro Max
256 GB – ₱84,990.00
512 GB – ₱96,990.00
1 TB – ₱106,990
The availability of new iPhone 15s and iPhone 15 Pro is yet to be announced for the Philippine market. To know about the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus, you can go here and for the new iPhone 15 Pro and Iphone Pro Max, just read about the device here.
The new iPhones will have USB-C ports. This is a major change from previous iPhones, which have used the Lightning connector. The switch to USB-C is being made in order to comply with a new European Union regulation that requires all new smartphones to have USB-C ports.
The USB-C port, as mentioned by Android users, is a more versatile port than the Lightning connector. It can be used to charge devices, transfer data, and connect to external displays. It is also the standard port used by many other devices, such as laptops, tablets, and cameras. This means that you will be able to use the same charger and cable for your iPhone 15 and other devices. It is however not yet confirmed if the new iPhones will be able to support external displays.
The switch to USB-C is a welcome change for many iPhone users. It is a more modern and versatile port that will make it easier to connect the iPhone to other devices and accessories. It is also a step towards reducing e-waste, as there will be no need to have separate chargers for different devices.
The iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus will have USB-C ports that support USB 2.0 speeds, though this is yet to be confirmed. This means that the new iPhones be capable to transfer data at a maximum speed of 480 Mbps. However, it is possible that Apple may release a later version of the iPhone 15 with a USB-C port that supports faster speeds.
Overall, the switch to USB-C is a positive change for the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus. It is a more versatile and modern port that will make it easier to connect the iPhone to other devices. It is also a step towards reducing e-waste.
Apple has once again pushed the boundaries of wearable technology with the introduction of the Apple Watch Ultra 2. Unveiled on September 12, 20231, this new iteration of Apple’s most rugged and capable watch brings a host of performance updates and new features, setting a significant environmental milestone.
Powerful New S9 SiP
At the heart of the Apple Watch Ultra 2 is the powerful new S9 SiP1. This custom Apple silicon delivers system-wide improvements and introduces brand-new features. It includes a new double tap gesture and on-device Siri with the ability to access and log health data privately and securely. The watch also features a new 4-core Neural Engine that can process machine learning tasks up to twice as fast as the original Apple Watch Ultra.
Double Tap Gesture
The Apple Watch Ultra 2 introduces a new double tap gesture, allowing users to easily control the watch using just one hand and without touching the display. Users can tap the index finger and thumb of their watch hand together twice to quickly perform many of the most common actions on the watch. This double tap will also open the Smart Stack from the watch face, and another double tap will scroll through widgets in the stack.
Brightest Display Ever
The Apple Watch Ultra 2 boasts Apple’s brightest display ever, with an upgraded brightness of 3,000 nits. This makes it perfect for anyone who wants our biggest, brightest display, longest battery life, and best GPS of any Apple Watch.
Expanded Altitude Range and Advanced Capabilities
The watch offers an expanded altitude range, on-device Siri, Precision Finding for iPhone, and advanced capabilities for water adventures1. It also runs watchOS 10, which delivers redesigned apps, new cycling experiences, features to help explore the outdoors, and a new watch face — Modular Ultra3.
Battery Life
Despite all these advancements, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 maintains an impressive battery life. It offers a 36-hour battery life with regular use and up to 72 hours in Low Power Mode.
Carbon Neutral Options
In a significant step towards environmental sustainability, customers can now choose a carbon neutral option for any Apple Watch model. This represents a significant milestone toward Apple’s plan to be carbon neutral across its entire business, manufacturing supply chain, and product life cycle by 20301.
The Apple Watch Ultra 2 is available for order today, with availability beginning Friday, September 22. It is priced at $799, making it both an impressive piece of technology and a statement of style.
Together with the new iPhone 15s, Apple also announced the new Apple Watch Series 9. The new watch features a number of improvements over its predecessor, including a brighter display, a faster processor, and a new double-tap gesture.
Faster Processor
The Apple Watch Series 9 is powered by the new S9 SiP, the new dual-core CPU has 5.6 billion transistors — 60% more than the S8 chip. Apple Watch Series 9 also has a new 4-core Neural Engine that can process machine learning tasks up to twice as fast, when compared with Apple Watch Series 8. The power efficiency of the S9 SiP allows Apple Watch Series 9 to maintain all-day 18-hour battery life.
Double-tap gesture
The Apple Watch Series 9 has a new double-tap gesture that allows you to control the watch without touching the display. Users can tap the index finger and thumb of their watch hand together twice to quickly and conveniently perform many of the most common actions on Apple Watch Series 9.
Brighter display
The Apple Watch Series 9 has a brighter display, it display up to 2000 nits — double that of Series 8. This will make it easier to see the watch in bright sunlight. With the new S9 SiP, the display is also more energy-efficient, so it will last longer on a single charge.
Notable features;
Always-on altimeter that measures elevation changes throughout the day
New fall detection feature that can automatically call emergency services if you fall
New ECG app that can detect atrial fibrillation
New blood oxygen app that can measure your blood oxygen levels
Apple Watch Series 9 is available in 41mm and 45mm sizes in starlight, midnight, silver, (PRODUCT)RED, and a new pink aluminum case, as well as stainless steel in gold, silver, and graphite cases. The Apple Watch Series 9 is priced at $399. The watch will be available for pre-order on September 15 and will start shipping on September 22.
Apple has officially announced the new iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max, the company’s latest flagship smartphones. The new phones feature a number of improvements over their predecessors, including a new design, a more powerful A17 Bionic chip, a better camera system and USB-C!
“This is the most pro lineup we have ever created, with a state-of-the-art titanium design, the best iPhone camera system yet that enables game-changing new workflows, and the A17 Pro chip, which ushers in a new chapter of performance and games never before seen on iPhone,” said Greg Joswiak, Apple’s senior vice president of Worldwide Marketing. “iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max represent the best of Apple design and industry-first innovations to help enrich the everyday experiences of our users, while enabling them to unleash their creativity.”
Design
The iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max still using the same design language that Apple used since the iPhone 12, but with a few key changes. The front will be using Ceramic Shield and back glass is now made of titanium, which is stronger and lighter than aluminum. The phones are also slightly thicker and heavier, which helps to improve their durability.
The front of the phones is still dominated by the large display, which is now a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display on the iPhone 15 Pro and a 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display on the iPhone 15 Pro Max. The displays have a resolution of 2556‑by‑1179-pixel resolution at 460 ppi and support HDR10 and Dolby Vision.
USB-C
Just like with the iPhone 15 and 15 Plus, the new iPhone 15 Pros will feature a new USB-C connector. The switch to USB-C is being made in order to comply with a new European Union regulation that requires all new smartphones to have USB-C ports. The USB-C will be for charging and data transfer. iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max support USB 3 for data transfer speeds up to 10 gigabits per second, up to 20x faster than before.
Action button
Another new feature of the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max is the new Action button which replaces the replaces the “mute” switch. The new Action button is customizable that give you quick access to the camera or flashlight; activating Voice Memos, Focus modes, Translate and accessibility features like Magnifier; or using Shortcuts for more options.
Camera
The camera system on the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max is one of the biggest improvements over the previous models. The main camera now has a 48-megapixel sensor, which allows it to take sharper and more detailed photos. The ultrawide camera has also been upgraded to a 12-megapixel sensor with a wider field of view. Both cameras now support Night mode, which allows you to take great photos in low-light conditions.
The iPhone 15 Pro Max also has a new telephoto camera with a 5x optical zoom in and a 2x optical zoom out, that gives it a 10x optical zoom range with the digital zoom up to 25x. This is the first time that the iPhone has had a telephoto lens with this much zoom capabilities, and it will be a major boon for photographers who want to take close-up shots of faraway subjects.
A17 Bionic chip
The iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max are powered by the A17 Bionic chip, the most powerful chip ever used in an iPhone and the industry’s first 3-nanometer chip in a smartphone. The A17 Bionic chip offers up to 10% faster CPU performance and up to 20% faster GPU performance than the previous chip. The new iPhone 15 Pros will also features hardware-accelerated ray tracing — which is 4x faster than software-based ray tracing — iPhone 15 Pros offers smoother graphics, as well as more immersive AR applications and gaming experiences.
This makes the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max ideal for demanding tasks like gaming and video editing.
Battery Life
The iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max will have a longer battery life that the previous generation; up to 29 hours video playback and up to 95 hours in audio with support for magSafe wireless charging up to 15 Watts and Qi wireless charging up to 7.5 Watts. When using a 20W adapter (or higher) battery will fast-charge up to 50% charge in just 30 minutes. Just like with the iPhone 15 and 15 Plus, Apple uses 100% recycled cobalt in the battery. You can checkout the full specs of the iPhone 15 Pro and 15 Pro Max here.
Notable features;
New design with titanium back
A17 Bionic chip
Improved camera system with 48-megapixel main camera, 12-megapixel ultrawide camera, and 6x optical zoom telephoto camera
Night mode for all three cameras
Customizable Action button
Cinematic mode for videos
LiDAR scanner for augmented reality
Larger battery
Support for 5G connectivity
The iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max will be available in black titanium, white titanium, blue titanium, and natural titanium finishes, and will be available in 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB storage capacities. The iPhone 15 Pro will start at $999 and the iPhone 15 Pro Max will start at $1,199. The phones will be available for pre-order on September 15 and will start shipping on September 22.
