Wednesday, February 18, 2026

LG Electronics and will.i.am Redefine Portable Audio with AI-Powered xboom Speakers at CES 2026

LG Electronics is once again pushing the boundaries of portable audio, teaming up with global music icon and tech innovator will.i.am to expand the xboom by will.i.am speaker lineup at CES 2026. Building on the success of last year’s models, the refreshed collection introduces deeper artificial intelligence integration, smarter personalization, and four new speakers designed for different lifestyles and listening environments.

At the heart of the new lineup is FYI.RAiDiO, an advanced AI-powered platform that delivers real-time music curation, contextual recommendations, and interactive AI Personas. This technology transforms the listening experience from passive playback into an intelligent, adaptive interaction that evolves based on user preferences, mood, and environment.

The new lineup includes four distinct models: Stage 501, Blast, Mini, and Rock.

The flagship Stage 501 is engineered for performance and versatility. It features AI Karaoke Master, allowing users to remove vocals, adjust pitch, and customize singing styles without requiring specialized tracks. With up to 25 hours of battery life on a swappable battery and up to 220W of power when plugged in, it is built for both portability and powerful output.

For outdoor enthusiasts, the Blast delivers rugged durability and up to 35 hours of playback. Its portable vertical rope handle and reinforced design make it ideal for adventures, while maintaining strong, immersive sound.

The Mini offers a more compact and stylish cube design, perfect for everyday use. Despite its size, it provides clear audio, 10 hours of playtime, IP67 dust and water resistance, a Magic Strap, and even a built-in tripod mount for added flexibility.

Meanwhile, the Rock is designed to meet military-level durability standards. It offers enhanced sound output, wide audio coverage, and LE Audio Auracast support, allowing multiple listeners to share audio seamlessly.

All models feature AI Sound, which automatically optimizes audio settings, and AI Lighting, which synchronizes lighting effects with music for a more immersive experience.

will.i.am emphasized that AI is transforming sound into a more dynamic and culturally connected experience. LG Electronics, for its part, continues to position portable audio as a major growth category in 2026, combining design innovation, performance, and intelligent features.

The new xboom speakers will debut at CES 2026 before launching globally later this year, signaling a new era where AI and audio merge to create smarter, more personal listening experiences.

EDENA Launches Autonomic Financial OS to Transform Sovereign Asset Management

HONG KONG — EDENA Capital Partners has officially unveiled its groundbreaking Autonomic Financial OS, an AI-driven financial operating system designed to automate the issuance, verification, and settlement of sovereign and state-linked assets. The launch took place at the DAT Summit Hong Kong on February 18, 2026, marking a major milestone in the evolution of blockchain-powered capital markets and institutional finance.

The Autonomic Financial OS represents a structural shift from legacy financial infrastructure to a real-time, transparent, and automated environment. Powered by artificial intelligence and blockchain technology, the system removes manual settlement processes and enables faster, more secure transactions for governments and institutions. EDENA CEO Wook Lee described the innovation as the “master rail” for the next generation of global capital markets.

At its core, the Autonomic Financial OS acts as an intelligence layer that connects sovereign assets to global liquidity. EDENA revealed that more than $100 billion worth of energy infrastructure and national projects are already being prepared to operate on the platform. This development highlights the growing trend of asset tokenization and blockchain adoption among governments seeking efficiency, transparency, and capital access.

The platform is supported by a Global Tech Alliance featuring industry leaders. Canton Network provides privacy-focused infrastructure for institutional digital assets, while Cantor8 enables seamless integration between traditional finance and blockchain. ZKsync delivers zero-knowledge settlement technology, ensuring confidential yet verifiable transactions. Chainlink supplies trusted real-world data and cross-chain connectivity, and Athena Dynamics strengthens cybersecurity with advanced threat protection and behavioral analytics.

EDENA has already secured a sovereign pipeline exceeding $20 billion, with major projects underway in Indonesia, South Korea, the Middle East, and Africa. These initiatives focus on energy infrastructure and strategic national assets, accelerating the migration of real-world sovereign investments onto blockchain rails.

This launch signals a broader transformation in financial market infrastructure. By combining artificial intelligence, blockchain, and institutional-grade security, the Autonomic Financial OS enables governments to access global capital with unprecedented speed and integrity. Industry leaders believe this innovation will define the future of sovereign finance, unlocking new levels of efficiency, transparency, and trust.

As sovereign asset tokenization continues to expand, EDENA’s Autonomic Financial OS positions itself at the forefront of the digital finance revolution, bridging traditional capital markets with the blockchain-powered economy.

LG Expands Gaming Portal, Turning Smart TVs Into Full-Scale Gaming Hubs

LG is accelerating its push into cloud gaming by expanding its Gaming Portal with a wide range of new titles that users can play directly on LG Smart TVs—no console or external hardware required. This move reinforces LG’s vision of transforming the television into an all-in-one entertainment and gaming platform.

The Gaming Portal now features more than 4,000 cloud-based games along with 600 casual titles, giving users instant access to diverse genres including racing, adventure, music, and trivia. By eliminating the need for traditional gaming devices, LG is lowering the barrier to entry and making gaming more accessible to a broader audience.

One of the most recognizable additions is Just Dance Now, which brings motion-based gameplay to select LG Smart TVs. Players can use the Magic Remote to follow dance moves and enjoy an interactive fitness and entertainment experience from their living room.

LG has also partnered with Volley to introduce voice-controlled games such as Jeopardy! and Song Quiz. These titles allow players to interact using voice commands, creating a more immersive and social gaming experience tailored for TV users.

Meanwhile, LG’s collaboration with Blacknut has brought Asphalt Legends Unite to the platform. Players can enjoy the full game, including all cars and maps, even using the standard TV remote as a controller. This demonstrates LG’s commitment to simplifying gameplay while maintaining high-quality gaming experiences.

The platform is also expanding its storytelling offerings with My Little Puppy, an emotional adventure title designed to showcase cinematic visuals and narrative depth on the big screen.

To further enhance accessibility, LG introduced the LG Mobile Gamepad Wi-Fi app, which allows users to convert their smartphones into game controllers. This innovation provides more precise control and makes gameplay feel closer to traditional console gaming.

Additionally, award-winning titles from the LG webOS Hackathon—including Quest of Sunflower and Signs of Magic—are now available. These games highlight creative innovation and demonstrate the potential of LG’s TV-based gaming ecosystem.

With these additions, LG is positioning its Smart TVs not just as viewing devices, but as complete gaming platforms. As cloud gaming continues to evolve, LG’s Gaming Portal could play a major role in redefining how and where people play.

Tuesday, February 17, 2026

Vivo V70 Launches in the Philippines with POP MART ZSIGA Collaboration and Stunning Golden Hour Design

MANILA, PHILIPPINES – Vivo has officially confirmed the arrival of the Vivo V70 in the Philippines on February 28, 2026, signaling an exciting new chapter for its popular V Series lineup. This latest release stands out not only for its upgraded design but also for its creative collaboration with POP MART and its well-known intellectual property, ZSIGA. At the center of attention is the exclusive Golden Hour colorway, a finish inspired by warmth, individuality, and modern lifestyle expression.

Built around the concept “Bloom Under the Sun,” the partnership reflects Vivo’s commitment to blending technology with fashion and personal identity. By working with POP MART and ZSIGA, Vivo aims to connect more deeply with the younger generation, combining artistic storytelling with innovative smartphone design. This collaboration reinforces the brand’s evolution beyond technology and into a lifestyle-focused experience.

The Golden Hour colorway takes inspiration from the natural glow of the setting sun, symbolizing authenticity and self-expression. It mirrors the creative spirit of ZSIGA’s “Under The Sun” series while aligning with Vivo’s understanding of how users today value individuality. This unique finish encourages users to celebrate their personality and capture meaningful life moments in their own way. For those who prefer a more understated look, the Vivo V70 will also be available in Alpine Gray, offering a sleek and minimalist alternative.

Beyond its visual appeal, the Vivo V70 introduces a completely refreshed design focused on both elegance and durability. The smartphone features an aerospace-grade aluminum alloy frame, providing improved resistance against drops, deformation, and corrosion. This ensures the device remains reliable even with daily use.

The camera module has also been upgraded with a premium metal construction, enhancing both durability and aesthetics. Meanwhile, the matte glass back panel is designed to resist fingerprints and stains, keeping the phone looking clean and stylish. On the front, ultra-thin 1.25mm bezels deliver a more immersive viewing experience, giving the device a modern and refined appearance.

With its fashion-forward collaboration, premium materials, and stylish new finishes, the Vivo V70 positions itself as a portrait flagship smartphone built for creativity and self-expression.

Filipino consumers can watch the official launch live on the Vivo Philippines Facebook page on February 28, 2026, at 5 PM, where the brand will showcase how the Vivo V70 brings together technology, art, and lifestyle in one impressive device.

LG UltraGear evo Debuts at CES 2026, Introducing 5K AI Upscaling and Next-Generation Gaming Displays

LG Electronics has officially unveiled UltraGear evo™, a new premium gaming monitor brand that signals a major evolution in display technology. Introduced at CES 2026, the UltraGear evo lineup is designed to deliver ultra-high resolution, exceptional speed, and immersive performance without the compromises gamers have traditionally faced.

At the heart of the UltraGear evo series is LG’s groundbreaking 5K AI Upscaling technology. This world-first, on-device AI solution enhances image quality in real time, allowing content to appear sharper and more detailed even without upgrading a graphics card. By processing enhancements directly on the monitor, LG removes one of the biggest barriers to enjoying higher-resolution gaming.

One of the standout models is the UltraGear evo 39GX950B, a 39-inch 5K2K OLED gaming monitor packed with intelligent features. It includes AI Scene Optimization, which automatically adjusts visuals based on what’s on screen, and AI Sound, which enhances audio immersion. The monitor also features Dual Mode, allowing users to switch between detailed 5K resolution at 165Hz or prioritize speed with an ultra-fast 330Hz refresh rate.

LG also introduced the 27GM950B, the world’s first 5K New MiniLED gaming monitor. With 2,304 local dimming zones and Zero Optical Distance technology, it significantly reduces blooming while maintaining exceptional brightness and contrast. Like its OLED counterpart, it supports 5K AI Upscaling and Dual Mode performance up to 330Hz, offering both clarity and competitive speed.

For gamers seeking maximum immersion, the UltraGear evo 52G930B pushes boundaries as the world’s largest 5K2K gaming monitor. Its massive 52-inch display, combined with a 1000R curve and panoramic 12:9 aspect ratio, creates a wraparound viewing experience. A fast 240Hz refresh rate ensures smooth gameplay despite the enormous screen size.

LG is positioning UltraGear evo as a breakthrough lineup that eliminates the traditional trade-offs between resolution, brightness, contrast, and speed. Visitors at CES 2026 can experience the new displays through a “Dream Setup” showcase and a racing simulator powered by the 39-inch OLED model.

In addition, LG is expanding its gaming portfolio with the global launch of the UltraGear GX7, a 27-inch QHD Tandem OLED monitor capable of an astonishing 540Hz refresh rate.

With UltraGear evo, LG is redefining what gamers can expect from premium monitors, bringing together AI intelligence, extreme performance, and next-level immersion.