HUAWEI Band 11 Series: A Smart Fitness Companion for an Active Lifestyle

Manila, Philippines — HUAWEI continues to transform everyday movement into meaningful progress toward a healthier lifestyle with the launch of the HUAWEI Band 11 Series. Designed for individuals who want to stay active without the bulk of traditional smartwatches, the wearable combines advanced health monitoring, intelligent fitness features, and a sleek design that fits seamlessly into daily routines.

As the world’s No. 1 wearable brand, HUAWEI developed the Band 11 Series to deliver powerful performance in a lightweight and comfortable device. The wearable features an ultra-thin design measuring just 8.99 mm and weighing only 16 to 18 grams, making it comfortable enough for all-day use. Despite its compact size, the band includes a vibrant 1.62-inch AMOLED display that remains bright and easy to read even under direct sunlight.

Content creator Jae Miranda appreciates the balance of style and function the HUAWEI Band 11 provides. Whether he is jogging in the morning, exploring new cafés, or editing content late at night, the band keeps track of his steps, heart rate, and sleep data effortlessly. The upgraded Hex grid interface and brightness levels of up to 2,000 nits on the HUAWEI Band 11 Pro ensure that key information is always visible. With up to 14 days of battery life, users can focus on their activities without worrying about frequent charging.

For fitness enthusiasts like Marline Capones, the HUAWEI Band 11 Series serves as a reliable training partner. With more than 100 sports modes and built-in independent GPS on the Pro model, users can track pace, distance, and routes without needing a smartphone. Features such as Track Run Mode and Running Posture Analysis provide accurate performance insights, helping runners improve efficiency and reduce the risk of injury. Recovery tools like HRV monitoring and AI-powered running plans further support balanced training and recovery.

The wearable also supports athletes like basketball player Tyler Tio, who relies on real-time heart rate monitoring and sleep tracking to maintain peak performance. The durable straps and lightweight design make it suitable for both sports and everyday wear, while health features such as HUAWEI TruSleep™ 4.0 and pulse-wave arrhythmia analysis provide deeper wellness insights.

Beyond fitness tracking, the HUAWEI Band 11 Series also enhances everyday convenience. With features like GCash Watch Pay for QR payments and Quick Replies for messages, users can stay connected without constantly reaching for their phones.

The HUAWEI Band 11 starts at PHP 2,399, while the HUAWEI Band 11 Pro is available for PHP 4,499 through major online platforms and HUAWEI Experience Stores nationwide. With advanced features, stylish design, and smart convenience, the HUAWEI Band 11 Series is built to support modern, active lifestyles.

Festival-Goers Dared to Switch as LIFT Powers Up Its First MassKara Experience

Coca-Cola Philippines’ newest drink, LIFT, brought an electrifying boost to the streets of Bacolod with its first MassKara Festival appearance. The three-day activation along Lacson Street became one of the festival’s most talked-about stops, as thousands of festival-goers took on the “Dare to Switch” challenge.

At the heart of the activation were exciting activities that captured LIFT’s bold challenger spirit. Attendees took on the LIFT Maze, racing against the clock to find their way through the puzzle’s twists and turns; tested their strength at the LIFT UpBar; struck creative poses at the LIFT Art Photo Wall; and proved their unwavering focus and coordination at the LIFT Bottle Up challenge. Each game encouraged participants to push their limits, boost their confidence, and drive to go further.

The LIFT booth buzzed with excitement as festival-goers lined up to take their shot at beating the timer and outscoring others. Many also stopped by the booth to capture share-worthy moments and turned the experience into an online celebration of the challenger mindset. Across every challenge, the LIFT booth became a space where high spirits met determination, proving that anyone can dare to switch.

“LIFT’s first-ever MassKara activation was a celebration of the bold spirit that defines both the brand and the festival,” said Frenissa Mae Lagman, Frontline Marketing Senior Director of Coca-Cola Philippines.

“MassKara is all about uplifting the Filipino spirit, and LIFT embodies that same drive — to face every challenge with confidence and dare to switch when it’s time to level up.”

As the festival wrapped up, LIFT left its mark after energizing thousands of attendees and introducing more Filipinos to the brand’s challenger spirit. Ready to make the switch? LIFT is now available in sari-sari stores across Western Visayas, with more events and activations to come nationwide.

Follow LIFT Philippines on Facebook and Instagram to catch the next stop of the Dare to Switch experience.

Get Ready for the Pet Funland Fun Run 2025: A Day of Paws, Fitness, and Fun!

Mark your calendars for May 25, 2025, as Triumph Collective brings you the much-anticipated Pet Funland Fun Run 2025 at Alabang Town Center – Ayala Malls. This paw-some event is all about celebrating the unbreakable bond between pets and their humans, combining fitness, fun, and community in one unforgettable day!

Timed perfectly in line with National Pet Day, the Fun Run aims to promote health, wellness, and animal welfare. Whether you're a seasoned runner, a casual jogger, or just looking for a fun day out with your furry friend, this event is for everyone. A portion of the proceeds will go toward supporting local animal shelters, ensuring that the love spreads beyond the race track.

Participants can choose from four distances to match their fitness levels and furry companions' stamina:

• 1KM – P900

• 3KM – P1,000

• 5KM – P1,200

• 10KM – P1,300

Each registration includes awesome goodies for both hoomans and their pets: a T-shirt, Dogbib, Racebib, Doggie Medal, Hooman Medal, and a loot bag filled with surprises!

The Pet Funland Fun Run 2025 officially kicked off its campaign with a press conference last April 24, 2025, held at Player's Kitchen & Bar at Alabang Town Center. The event gathered an enthusiastic crowd of pet lovers, running clubs, and media representatives, all excited to witness this unique fusion of fitness and fur-friends.

Ready to join the fun? Registration is open online via https://myruntime.com/register/pet-funland-fun-run-2025. Don’t miss out on this tail-wagging event!

For more details, reach out to:
Nikka Ramos Baun
📞 0918-8133333
📧 triumphcollectiveph@gmail.com

Lace up, leash up, and prepare for a day of movement, joy, and connection at the Pet Funland Fun Run 2025—because life is better with paws and running shoes!

Vivo 3x3 Basketball Challenge Year 3: A Slam Dunk of Excitement!

MANILA, PHILIPPINES – The Vivo 3x3 Basketball Challenge made a thrilling return for its third season on March 22 at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall, delivering an electrifying day of fast-paced basketball, intense rivalries, and unforgettable moments.

Fans, players, and basketball enthusiasts gathered to witness the country’s top 3x3 talents battle it out on the court. With 16 teams—eight men’s and eight women’s—split into Group A and Group B, the competition was nothing short of fierce. Every game was a test of endurance and strategy, with teams racing to score 21 points first or leading at the final buzzer to secure victory.

Non-Stop Action and Unmatched Skill

From jaw-dropping high-flying dunks to clutch three-pointers and buzzer-beaters, each match kept the crowd on the edge of their seats. The tournament showcased the relentless determination and teamwork of every player, making every game a spectacle of pure basketball brilliance.

Adding to the high-energy atmosphere, the NU Dance Company delivered a power-packed performance that brought the house down. Their dynamic choreography and electrifying moves made the Vivo 3x3 Basketball Challenge more than just a sporting event—it was a full-blown entertainment experience.

Lucky Fans Took Home Exclusive Prizes

Beyond the court, fans also got in on the excitement with a special raffle giveaway. Lucky attendees walked away with exclusive Vivo merchandise and other fantastic prizes, making their experience even more memorable.

Top Teams Move Closer to the Grand Finals

After an intense day of competition, the top four teams from each category secured their spots in the Grand Finals this May. The Hoop Ballers, a dominant force in the women’s division, stood out with their strategic plays and solid defense. “For us, defense is the best offense,” said Bella Vanessa Suansing, one of the team’s standout players.

Meanwhile, Gameball Basketball proved to be a powerhouse in the men’s division, crediting their success to intense training and preparation. Joshua Rafael, the team captain, emphasized their commitment: “We trained hard, focused on skills, and made sure we were fully prepared for 3x3.”

Catch the Replay and Upcoming Matches

Missed the action? Watch the full game highlights here: https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1AxbF8or3e/.

The journey to the Grand Finals continues with more high-energy matchups:

• April 12 – Robinsons Manila

• April 26 – SM City Clark, Pampanga

• May 3 – SM Fairview, Quezon City

• May 9-10 – Grand Finals at SM MOA Music Hall

Stay tuned for more updates by following Vivo on Facebook, X, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube!

One-of-a-kind, life-enabling digital experiences: Globe brings customers closer to their dreams in month-long 917 G Day celebration

Globe, the mobile leader and top digital solutions provider in the Philippines, redefines customer appreciation with its annual G Day celebration. The telco-turned-techco is thanking its customers for their loyalty by bringing together life-enabling tools and rewards in line with its mission to uplift the lives of Filipinos.

Stretching beyond the iconic date of September 17 (09/17) or 0917, which represents Globe’s iconic mobile number prefix, this month-long celebration promises to bring Filipinos closer to their dreams with digital innovations and next-gen tech experiences.

"Through G Day, we hope to help our customers get closer to their dreams through innovative, life-enabling digital solutions, powered by reliable connectivity. We're going bigger in terms of engaging our customers and making them feel valued,” said Jerome Patalud, Head of Globe Rewards.

Globe is also committed to using the G Day platform to reiterate its message of environmental sustainability. Throughout its G Day events and activities, Globe is championing sustainability by encouraging customers to observe eco-friendly and socially-conscious practices through small acts - from proper waste disposal, avoiding the use of single-use plastics, to using sustainable transport through the use of Globe’s electric vehicle shuttles to and from event venues, or via carpooling.

Customers are also encouraged to support advocacies such as the Hapag Movement, the Globe-led initiative that aims to address involuntary hunger through supplemental feeding and livelihood training.

Here's how Globe is going to help make customers’ dreams come true every day this September:

G Chance The Raffle (September 1-30)

Globe customers can use their Rewards points to redeem raffle entries via the GlobeOne App for the chance to win experiences that money can’t buy. For as low as 1 Globe Rewards point, customers have the power to choose a raffle category. Up for grabs in this year’s G Chance the Raffle are prizes that champion clean transport like a new e-powered vehicle or Gogoro Smartscooters; intelligent home enablement through Globe At Home technologies; vacacion en grande with Globe Roaming packages to Japan, Hong Kong and Singapore in partnership with ANA and Klook, plus trips to Davao and Coron with the Discovery Hotels Group.

G Chance the Raffle can also kick-start online businesses and equip aspiring vloggers, giving them a chance to learn the ropes from industry leaders such as YouTube, Meta, and TikTok. Winners will also get access to premium subscriptions such as the RUSH Spark Lite e-Store Platform and Canva Pro, along with the tools they’ll need in  their creator or business owner journey. Techies can win the latest intelligent gadgets, and for shopaholics, Globe is giving away a shopping spree at Puregold, GCash prizes and more.

Customers can redeem entries until September 30, 2023.

G Music Fest (September 16)

G Music Fest, now in its fourth year, is making an even bigger comeback as a Music and Creator Festival.

With a focus on celebrating local talent, this year will feature an all-Pinoy lineup from OPM OGs to young emerging performers through partnerships with Warner Music and Sony Music. Attendees from all generations will get to vibe with Urbandub, December Avenue, Lola Amour, Dilaw, PLAYERTWO, Paul Pablo, Sugarcane, The Itchyworms, Mayonnaise, Ace Banzuelo, Nobita, Munimuni and Syd Hartha at Circuit Grounds in Makati. Event goers can also hang out at the DJ lounge sponsored by MYX Global.

Beyond inspiration through music, the festival’s Creator Hub will encourage self-expression, learning and creativity through various art and community building activities such as live murals and painting with Drip Splash and Paint It Fun.

Attendees can expect a wide variety of food choices on-ground through handpicked food concessionaires: Better than Ice Cream (BTIC), Kurimu, Pocofino, Jamba Juice, Pancake House, Yellow Cab, Pickup Coffee, Shakeys, Potato Corner,  Army Navy. Alcoholic beverages will also be served through official alco partners - Coca Cola, and San Miguel Brewery.

Other key festival partners include Philippine Airlines, the official airline partner, Zing, KonsultaMD, GCash, Parlon, Klook, and PetPal.

G Music Fest will also encourage customers to practice sustainability throughout the event, from limiting the use of single-use plastics among concessionaires, to encouraging BYO (Bring Your Own) water bottles among customers and providing water refilling stations sponsored by Klean Kanteen. Through a partnership with the Waste and Resources Management Inc (WARM), water efficient portalets will be deployed on ground, and manned waste bins will ensure proper waste segregation.

Attendees can also enjoy sustainable transport to and from the venue through electric vehicles provided by GET EV official shuttle partner, with pickup points at Alabang Town Center, One Ayala, and TriNoMa.

G Creator Con (September 17)

G Creator Con aims to unlock the creative potential of each Filipino in the music, content, design and technology space. The event, to be held simultaneously at The Globe Tower, BGC Amphitheater, and Globe Creator House, transforms BGC into an Art & Tech City powered by Globe. It serves as a springboard for Globe's Creator Culture, a long-term program combining thought-leadership, creative tech experiences and rewarding opportunities through creator project grants.

Creator Talks will feature speakers from Meta, YouTube, DTI Design Center, Myx, Social Media Marketing PH, Bitskwela, and creative thought-leaders Nadine Lustre, Mela Habijan, Pat Tinguy, Eva Le Queen, Pio Dumayas of Lola Amour as panelists! While fun and interactive activities from KROMA Entertainment, NABU, Kumu, Samsung and JobStreet will be in BGC Amphitheater, aspiring creators can have cinematic headshots taken at the Globe Creator House. To top it all off, music creators GNY, Carissa and Clara Benin will close the con on a sweet note. 

Passes to the Creator Talks and Speed Mentorship can be redeemed with Rewards points via the GlobeONE app. G Creator Con is also part of the Philippine Creative Industries Month, a celebration of Filipino creativity for the whole month of September.

For more information on the different activities, visit the G Creator Con page.

G Fair (September 23-24)

To be held the following weekend also at the BGC Amphitheater, the art and tech pop-up market G Fair will showcase Filipino entrepreneurs and artists. With curated micro, small, and medium-size enterprises (MSMEs) and artists from MoCAF (Modern and Contemporary Art Festival), the bazaar offers a blend of homegrown businesses and art. The fair champions businesses with varied causes and backgrounds such as sustainability advocates (Lana, Sewn Sandals & MAGWAI), social entrepreneurs promoting the work of Filipino artisans (Tahanan Pottery & Habi Lifestyle), and regional businesses (Baguio’s Rebel Bakehouse). On top of this, customers will have access to the finest art galleries that feature emerging Filipino artists in partnership with MoCAF. Discover Filipino ingenuity from eight participating galleries: MoCAF Discoveries, R Gallery, Art Toys, Rojo Gallery, Village Art Gallery, Art For Space, Galerie Francesca Emporium and Cartellino.

Customers can pre-order online a few days before the event. On G Fair weekend, they will get to immerse in digital solutions that Globe Business offers, engage in interactive art activities, and win exciting raffle prizes.

G Battle Zone: G Legends Cup and REV Major (September 23-30)

Gaming enthusiasts can participate in an online nationwide Mobile Legends tournament, the G Legends Cup. Winners will receive cash prizes and a chance to meet, greet, and even scrim with Globe's main gaming ambassador Blacklist International.

Gamers may also join the Philippines’ largest fighting game tournament, REV Major 2023, to be held at the SMX Convention Center on September 30 and October 1. Here, the best of Pinoy gamers will play against international fighting game esports athletes. Attendees can also enjoy exclusive giveaways from Globe’s partners such as  GrabCar, Move It, and Foodpanda.

With the entire month packed with various events and offerings, Globe aims to give its customers memorable and rewarding experiences that can help bring their aspirations to life.

"G Day is all about celebrating our most-valued customers for staying with Globe throughout the years. With tech capabilities and digital solutions, our G Day celebration this year aims to make our customers feel that with Globe, they have a partner in making their dreams come true," Patalud said.

For more information on the G Day events and how to participate, download and explore the GlobeOne app or visit glbe.co/GDayEveryday. 

Oxfam, Microsoft partner to provide cash aid to COVID-19 patients

To scale up government efforts to curb the impact of the pandemic, international development, and humanitarian organization Oxfam and Microsoft partnered to provide cash assistance to low-income families of confirmed and suspected COVID-19 patients in Quezon City.

Oxfam Pilipinas country director Lot Felizco said the cash assistance would be initially provided to 90 families in areas identified to have high cases of COVID-19, such as in barangays Batasan Hills and Culiat in Quezon City, which are under strict community quarantine.

“We shall use digital cash transfer through an electronic prepaid card to reduce the risk of virus transmission and to manage a safe, quick, and transparent cash transfer. This also provides the affected communities more access to financial services, and ultimately, enhances their dignity,” Felizco said.

The cash assistance amounting to Php 5,000, which is based on the government’s Social Amelioration Program, will support families to buy food and medicines, as well as pay for their utilities and other essential needs.

“We are deeply invested in this initiative and the greater cause,” says Andres Ortola, country general manager of Microsoft Philippines. “As an organization, we recognize the role and responsibility we have in making sure our customers, partners, and communities are able to respond and adapt to the situation we’re all facing. Through Oxfam, we are able to live up to that commitment and deliver aid and assistance to the hard-hit communities of Quezon City.”

Aside from cash assistance, Oxfam and Microsoft will also provide hygiene kits, face masks, vitamins, and health supplements to the families of COVID-19 patients to mitigate the risks of virus transmission in their families and communities.

During the distribution of hygiene kits, there will also be hygiene promotion sessions to contribute to efforts to contain the spread of the disease.

As of August 13, there are 8,240 confirmed cases of COVID-19 with 5,756 recoveries in Quezon City with barangays Batasan Hills and Culiat among the areas with the highest confirmed cases.

The project will be implemented by Oxfam together with the Partnership of Philippine Support Service Agencies (PHILSSA) and its community partners in the two barangays.

Oxfam has pioneered the use of digital financial services in humanitarian response efforts. Since 2016, Oxfam and its partners have reached over 6 million Filipino families, as well as local micro and small businesses affected by emergencies in the Cordillera Administrative Region, Eastern, and Western Samar, Marawi, Cagayan and Rizal, among others.

Through this initiative, Oxfam and Microsoft hope to strengthen collaborative efforts among development agencies, the government, and the private sector to contribute to efforts to reduce poverty and vulnerability.

PHINMA Education, Globe enable flexible learning with mobile data for students

PHINMA Education, a fast-growing network of schools in Southeast Asia, recently partnered with Globe Telecom to provide mobile data to selected schools in its system as part of its FlexLearning@PHINMAEd program. Students in PHINMA Araullo University in Nueva Ecija and PHINMA Cagayan de Oro College will benefit from the project.

“Education must continue regardless of the situation and challenges that lie ahead. We believe that every Filipino student, especially those who have the determination to learn but don’t have the financial resources to do so, should have access to quality education,” shared Dr. Raymundo P. Reyes, PHINMA Education Philippines Country Head. “We’re thankful to have the support of Globe in helping our students succeed, allowing them to remain safe, and ensuring they have the tools they need to take charge of their future.”

While e-learning is the more popular option for schools in the country, PHINMA Education opted for a flexible learning structure that maximizes mobile data, often the primary means for students from underserved communities to access the internet. Each student will be given mobile data to access apps designed to make remote learning more efficient such as Hangouts, Viber, WhatsApp, Zoom, GSuite, Office 365, Canva, Canvas, and Course Hero.

 

“With where education is heading in the long run, now is the right time to put digital solutions to work, and sustain the advantages it has to offer,” said Peter Maquera, Senior Vice President for Globe Business. “Our collaboration with PHINMA Education will not only allow us to showcase the power of connectivity and digital technologies, but will also create an opportunity for us to serve the Filipino youth and their families as they figure out how to navigate the complexities caused by the pandemic.”

 

Aside from mobile data, Globe is set to help PHINMA equip its Nueva Ecija and Cagayan de Oro campuses with internet connectivity and digital payment facilities. Upon the resumption of face-to-face classes, PHINMA Education will have already established its iLearn Zones powered by Globe internet hotspots through GoWiFi. The presence of GCash Scan to Pay QR Codes, ECPay, and Touchpay terminals will also make it easier for both students and parents to seamlessly complete enrollment, putting digitalization in full swing.

 

PHINMA Education Holdings, Inc. is the education services subsidiary of PHINMA Corporation, a Filipino-owned conglomerate with investments in education, property development, hospitality, and construction materials. The former owns and operates seven schools across the Philippines and manages one in Karawang, West Java, Indonesia.

 

Globe continues to work with schools such as PHINMA Education in assisting the industry through low-cost data plans and digital solutions. Beyond the education sector, Globe has also started implementing network enhancements and capacity builds with its USD1.2 billion CAPEX investment earlier this year. With this, Globe envisions connectivity strengthened by ICT infrastructure growth, network upgrades, and deployment of cellular towers so that more Filipinos will one day be able to experience #1stWorldInternetPH.

Reach more possibilities with reliable connectivity solutions and digital services. Get in touch with your Globe Business Account Manager to learn more. Check out our website for the latest products and services to help you build your school’s digital future.

PLDT, SM join hands to improve customer experience with the launch of #14376 (I❤️SM) Hotline

(Manila, Philippines – August 2020) ​The SM Store, in collaboration with PLDT introduces its nationwide hotline number #14376 (I♥SM) to support the store’s Call to Deliver service, as part of continuous efforts to provide a better customer experience for shoppers.

The SM Store’s #MyNumber hotline is powered by PLDT’s expansive fixed-line network that will allow customers to dial the hashtag sign (#) followed by five digits, 14376 (I♥SM), which will connect them to the nearest The SM Store branch.

Through the fortified partnership, the full-featured contact service solution of PLDT will make ordering and shopping from The SM Store more convenient for their customers throughout the country. 

According to Teresita T. Sy-Coson, Vice Chairman of SM Investments Corporation, “We at SMIC have always endeavored to enhance our facilities and provide an outstanding experience for our valued customers. This hotline will improve our delivery service, especially during this time of COVID-19.”

The SM Store’s Call to Deliver service, available in all 64 branches of The SM Store, lets customers “shop” for much-needed items from the comforts of home. All they need to do is call #14376, provide their full name, contact details, and desired items, and wait for order confirmation and payment and delivery details from a branch representative. Shoppers can then have the items sent to their home via The SM Store’s delivery service or a third-party app, or pick them up outside the store premises.

“The PLDT Group is fully committed to being a partner of the SM Investments Corporation in delivering better customer experience. We are always ready to extend support and innovative solutions to enable our partners to rise above the challenges posed by the global pandemic,” said Manuel V. Pangilinan, PLDT Chairman, and CEO.

PLDT’s Cloud Center as a Service (CCaaS) is a subscription-based full-featured contact center service that sustains the hotline. With CCaaS, customers can use ACD, IVR, CTI, e-mail, chat, social media, SMS, voice mail, and fax in one platform.

SM Investments Corporation is one of the largest conglomerates in the Philippines with investments in retail, banking, shopping malls, property development, hotels, and resorts. With #MyNumber 14376 (I♥SM) simplifying the connection between shoppers and The SM Store, customer satisfaction is bound to be on the upswing in the coming months. 

Sony Announces a New Solution for Easy, High-quality Live Streaming and Video Calls, Compatible with 35 Sony Camera Models at Launch

(Manila, Philippines August 2020) – Sony Electronics Inc. today announced the release of a new desktop application called ‘Imaging Edge™ Webcam’ that allows users to easily transform their Sony digital camera[i] into a high-quality webcam by simply connecting it to a PC[ii]  via USB[iii], free of cost.

‘Imaging Edge Webcam’ allows users to live stream and video conference in one easy step while also taking full advantage of Sony’s advanced imaging technology such as industry-leading autofocus, high-resolution picture quality, and additional unique features of each compatible camera.

“We will continue to adapt and evolve to meet the needs of our customers.  Their voice is critical to everything that we do in this industry” said Ryo Ochi, General Manager, Digital Imaging Division, Sony Electronics Asia Pacific. “Given the growing demand for live streaming and video communication, we’re excited to share a new application that gives so many loyal Sony’s customers the ability to quickly and easily transform their camera into a highly effective webcam for live streaming, video calls and so much more.”

At launch, ‘Imaging Edge Webcam’ is compatible with 35 Sony camera models including Alpha 9 II, Alpha 9, Alpha 7R IV, Alpha 7R III, Alpha 7R II, Alpha 7S II, Alpha 7S, Alpha 7 III, Alpha 7 II, Alpha 6600, Alpha 6400, Alpha 6100, RX100 VII, RX100 VI, RX0 II, RX0, ZV-1, and more¹. Newly announced Alpha 7S III is compatible as well.

The new ‘Imaging Edge Webcam’ desktop application is available to download here.

---

1 Please refer to the website for a full list of compatible models. Firmware must be updated on cameras to ensure compatibility.

2 Windows® 10 64bit required

3 Charges select Sony Camera models while connected via USB. Please refer to the website for a full list of compatible models.

Pinoy app addressing pandemic impact won the Space Apps COVID-19 Challenge

MANILA, Philippines - An integrated public policy information portal measuring the impact of the coronavirus pandemic developed by Filipinos won the Space Apps COVID-19 Challenge in the best use of data, the solution that best makes space data accessible, or leverages it to a unique application. Using Earth observation, in-country economic and human mobility data, and global infection case counts, data analysts Nick Tobia, Helen Mary Barrameda, Kristel Joyce Zapata, Theresa Rosario Tan, and Miguel Oscar Castelo from CirroLytix created a dashboard for policy makers and economic planners to show the impact of COVID-19 on various countries and effects on the economy and environment.

Named G.I.D.E.O.N. (Global Impact Detection from Emitted Light, Onset of Covid-19, and Nitrogen Dioxide), the portal uses news feeds, Google mobility data, and coronavirus cases revealing the multi-dimensional impact of lockdown and other interventions. Night lights from the Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite (VIIRS) and nitrogen dioxide levels from Sentinel-5P show current impacts and forecast effects of lockdown. Google's community mobility reports, global infection data from Johns Hopkins University and nitrogen dioxide data reveal pollution levels produced by human activity, and monitor which countries keep air quality under control as they bounce back from lockdown and pave the way for the "new normal."

Aside from having a global winner, two Pinoy teams made it as global finalists too.

Inspired by social isolation experienced by astronauts in space, Snail Space (A wordplay for snail's pace) is an app giving a "safe space" by providing mental care and comfort during times of social isolation brought by the COVID-19 pandemic. It was developed by Celestial Snails team comprised of Arturo Caronongan III, Kevin Olanday, In Yong Lee, Mary Anne Dominique Casacop, and Gabriel Santiago from De La Salle University.

With public health in mind, Sentinellium leverages user data sent through SMS and chat, and space assets like population density, urbanization, and aerosol to provide a more accurate prediction of developing epidemics. This was done by Harlee Quizzagan, James Andrew C. Cornes, Angela Chua, Alaica Mariño, Joal Rose Lin, and Mohammad Ashraful Mobin, in which their group was formed during the hackathon period.

"The use of these modern and advanced technologies will be crucial, especially as the world navigates the fourth industrial revolution. Using big data, cloud, and AI applications, for an instance could help us understand the severity of the disease and 

aid in delivering measures to mitigate its impact," according to the Undersecretary for Competitiveness and Innovation of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Dr. Rafaelita "Fita" M. Aldaba. "This really fills me with great optimism that our young and talented startups and Filipinos have so much to offer and contribute to our efforts to provide solutions to address health and economic crisis," she said.

Last May 30-31, 2020, coders, entrepreneurs, scientists, designers, storytellers, makers, builders, artists and technologists have been invited in an all-virtual, global hackathon by the United States space agency National Aeronautics Space Administration (NASA), along with the European Space Agency (ESA), Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), the National Centre for Space Studies (CNES) of France, and Canadian Space Agency (CSA). During a period of 48 hours, more than 15,000 participants from 150 countries created more than 2,000 virtual teams. Participants used Earth observation and other open data to propose solutions to one of the twelve challenges related to the COVID-19 pandemic.

During the virtual bootcamp one week prior to the hackathon, Ellison Castro, Cara Patricia Canlas, and Arlo Jayson Sabuito from STAMINA4Space discussed the capabilities of microsatellites in determining the height of clouds and forest fire mapping using support vector machine. During the hackathon, Aldrich Tan, Elymar Apao, Chi Señires, and Janyl Tamayo from UXPH helped participants in designing and bringing user experience to their projects. Andresito de Guzman of PWA Pilipinas taught participants on developing progressive web applications. 2019 global winner in the best use of data Dominic Vincent Ligot from the Analytics Association of the Philippines and Data Ethics PH brought inspiration by emphasizing the importance of data analytics for social good.

G.I.D.E.O.N. is one of the six global winners selected by NASA, ESA, JAXA, CSA, and CNES, and one of the three teams shall have special access to the Euro Data Cube environment. If travel is deemed safe, winners shall also be invited to visit a NASA site to view a spacecraft launch. However, travel, accommodation, and food costs are not included. Lead organizer Michael Lance M. Domagas appeals support for the current and past winners, finalists, and especially to the four-year community who worked so hard in bringing honor to the country. "After being recognized by five leading space agencies of the planet, its time for our own country to show appreciation and give support for those who are stepping forward in combating the COVID-19 pandemic and its effects in our society today to defeat our common enemy," he said.

Previous Pinoy hackathon winners are Project AEDES (2019), using satellite and climate data to pinpoint possible dengue hotspots, and ISDApp (2018), which uses citizen science data to inform fishermen the right time to catch fish.

The Space Apps COVID-19 Challenge is a special edition of NASA’s annual Space Apps Challenge, an international hackathon that takes place around the world and online every October. Since 2012, teams have engaged with NASA's free and open data to address real-world problems on Earth and in space. Space Apps 2019 included more than 29,000 participants in 71 countries, developing more than 2,000 hackathon solutions over one weekend. This NASA-led initiative is organized in collaboration with Booz Allen Hamilton, Mindgrub, and SecondMuse. The next annual Space Apps Challenge is scheduled for October 2-4, 2020 in a virtual format. Registration opens August 15: https://2020.spaceappschallenge.org/locations/manila.

The Best Just Got Better - Sony Announces WH-1000XM4 Industry-Leading Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones

Sony today announced the WH-1000XM4, the 4^th generation over-ear wireless noise-canceling headphones in Sony’s award-winning 1000X family. The latest headphones offer all the much-loved technology from the hugely popular WH-1000XM3, with additional intelligent features that allow you to personalize and control your music, improve noise cancellation and adjust ambient sound automatically based on your preferences for a superior sound experience.

Superior silence, superior sound

Whether you’re flying long haul or relaxing in a café, the WH-1000XM4 headphones deliver Sony’s best ever noise-canceling performance, reducing high and mid-frequency sounds. With two microphones on each earcup, being used for noise canceling, our Dual Noise Sensor technology captures ambient noise and passes the data to the trusted HD Noise Cancelling Processor QN1. Then a new BLUETOOTH® Audio SoC (System on Chip) senses and adjusts to music and noise at over 700 times per second. Using a new algorithm, the HD Noise Cancelling Processor QN1 applies noise-canceling processing in real-time. This allows the user to focus more on the music they love and blur out the chaos of the outside world.

Using Edge-AI, DSEE Extreme^TM more accurately rebuilds audio lost during digital compression for a full-fidelity experience. Edge-AI analyses music in real-time and recognizes instruments, music genres, and individual elements of each song to restore the high range sounds lost in compression for a richer, more complete listening experience. To build this AI system, Sony has worked with Sony Music Studios Tokyo to gather data on music to garner true insight into how specific music signals are composed.

360 Reality Audio, a new immersive audio experience can be enjoyed on the WH-1000XM4 headphones when combined with an Android™ smartphone/iPhone that has a participating streaming services app installed.[i]  The 360 Reality Audio listening experience immerses you in the music as if you are right in front of your favorite artist. Listeners can enjoy a custom immersive musical field that is perfectly optimized for each individual user when using the WH-1000XM4 headphones and the “Sony | Headphones Connect” app[ii].

A smarter listening experience like no other

Adaptive Sound Control on the WH-1000XM4 is a smart function that senses where you are and what you’re doing then adjusts ambient sound settings for the ideal listening experience. Over time, Adaptive Sound Control learns to recognize locations that you frequently visit such as your workplace, gym or favorite café, and tailors sound to suit the situation. So, if you’re traveling you can lose yourself in your journey with no background noise to interrupt your favorite tracks. Or if you’re walking you can be aware of everything around you while still enjoying your music. You can set up your frequently visited locations and your preferred settings via the “Sony | Headphones Connect App” and ambient sound settings will
automatically update as you move between different environments[i].

Everyday convenience

New to the WH-1000XM4 is ‘Speak-to-Chat’, an innovative feature that lets you have short conversations without taking your headphones off, making ordering a coffee while listening to music even easier. Just simply say something and the headphones will recognize your voice, automatically stop your music and let in ambient sound so you can conduct a conversation without removing your headphones. The music automatically starts playing again 30 seconds[i] after you’ve last spoken. ‘Quick Attention’ mode is available on the WH-1000XM4 so if you want to listen to an announcement or say something briefly, you simply place your right hand over the earcup to decrease the volume instantly and let ambient sound in. 

The WH-1000XM4 now comes with wearing detection. The headphones detect whether they are being worn and adapts playback accordingly to help save battery power. Using the headphone’s proximity sensor and two acceleration sensors, the headphones automatically stop the music when you remove them and resumes playing when you put them on again, providing an effortless listening experience.

The WH-1000XM4 features new Precise Voice Pickup technology. This controls five of the microphones in the headphones optimally and performs advanced audio signal processing to pick up voices clearly and precisely for hands-free calls and Speak-to-Chat.

Pursuit of ultimate design

WH-1000XM4 blends sophisticated styling with exceptional comfort and light-weight design, you’ll barely notice you’re wearing them. Designed for those who travel frequently, the super-soft, pressure-relieving earpads evenly distribute pressure and increase ear/pad contact for a stable fit. 

For total convenience, the WH-1000XM4 can be paired with two BLUETOOTH® devices at the same time[i]. When a call comes in, your headphones know which device is ringing and connect to the right one automatically. You’ll also be able to quickly and smoothly switch your headphones to either of the two devices at a single tap.

The WH-1000XM4 are NFC and BLUETOOTH^® enabled and have a battery life of up to 30 hours[i] and quick charging function giving you up to 5 hours of wireless playback from 10 minutes of charging[ii].

The WH-1000XM4 also supports Google’s helpful new Fast Pair feature that lets you easily locate where you left your WH-1000XM4 by ringing them.

The latest model includes the same touch panel controls as its predecessor and is optimized for Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa so you can manage your day by asking your favorite voice assistant.[i]

Availability

The WH-1000XM4 will be available in the Philippines from August 14, 2020, in all Sony Centres and dealers nationwide.  

Pricing

Sony’s WH-1000XM4 is retailing for P19,999.00

For product specifications, please visit https://www.sony.com.ph/electronics/headband-headphones/wh-1000xm4

For product campaign video, please visit https://youtu.be/lIJPrYIR8Ek  

For more information about 360 Reality Audio, visit: http://www.music.com/360RA

For product specifications, please visit https://www.sony.com.ph/electronics/headband-headphones/wh-1000xm4.

For product campaign video, please visit https://youtu.be/lIJPrYIR8Ek  

For more information about 360 Reality Audio, visit: https://www.sony.com.ph/electronics/360-reality-audio

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[i] Google is a trademark of Google LLC. Amazon Alexa and all related logos are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates. Google Assistant and Alexa are available in select languages and countries/regions.

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[i] With noise cancellation on. Up to 38 hours with noise cancellation off

[ii] With optional AC adapter

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[i] Multiple device pairing will be available via a future firmware update

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[i] Configurable via Sony | Headphones Connect App

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[i] Location is not sent to the server since location learning functions offline.

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[i] For additional details on 360 Reality Audio, visit the following website: https://www.sony.net/360RA/

[ii] Sony | Headphones Connect app requires download to iOS devices from App Store or for Android devices from Google Play. App, network services, content, the operating system and software of this app may be subject to individual terms and conditions and changed, interrupted or discontinued at any time and may require fees, registration and credit card information. Requires product to be connected to the wireless network.