Yearly Archives: 2022

Advertorial, Business, Lifestyle

Celcom Business – The Trusted Partner to Accelerating Your Success

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Running a business is difficult. In the current climate, there are plenty of opportunities to be explored. The current business climate also presents more challenges than before.

It is not just businesses that are being challenged though. It is everything from running a team in your organization, the government sector is being challenged to also keep up with the times, the banking industry had to evolve very quickly thanks to new threats. Thanks to the threat of the pandemic businesses, organizations, and governments are being forced to change and evolve.

The pandemic has caught many off-guard. The need to digitalize businesses, services, and even governmental functions was abrupt and very sudden. With nearly zero warning, businesses are forced to close their doors physically, government offices and functions must completely shut down, other forms of organizations must cut back on their on-site and physical services too. It was a nightmare for traditional organizations.

Digitalizing organizations became rather crucial in these few years, exaggerated by the pandemic. Organizations are forced to start digitalizing their workflows and business functions in less than a few months in order to survive. It is not just offices that has to adapt, traditional businesses like restaurants had to quickly adapt to digitalizing in order to survive the pandemic.

Accelerating Your Business

Celcom Business offers productivity tools like Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace, digital payment gateways like mPOS and POS. Whether managing task or projects for your business or simply completing your daily work, digital tools can make you more productive, collaborative, and consistent. Celcom Business offers business tools such as M365 and Google Workspace to allow you to collaborate seamlessly from any across any device wherever you are in despite time and location.

Digitalizing Your Processes

Remote working is not a new idea. Tech firms like Google have been championing remote collaboration and productivity outside of the formal work environment. In some ways also, the pandemic has forced companies to adopt remote working strategies and develop tools for it. While the pandemic has become the biggest test bed for remote working, it has also presented organizations a challenge in transforming their workplace and methods.

With Celcom Business, the transformation does not have to be as difficult as it sounds. All the same tools available from Celcom Business are available for corporations at various scales. Organizations can start with cloud services available from Celcom Business’ network, for example. Microsoft 365 that can be accessed through Celcom business also allows businesses to monitor its workforce and allow for more comprehensive collaboration. At the same time, Celcom Business offers comprehensive cyber defense tools and services for businesses.

A Smarter City

Celcom Advertorial
Source: Celcom

The idea of a Smart City has never been closer to reality than it has ever been. Celcom Business does not just stop at digitalizing businesses too. It is the beginning of a smarter, more digital city. But what is a smart city?

In this context, a smart city is a connected city. At the heart of a smart city lies a digitalized network that shares information and data across multiple services and systems. One of them could be in the area of securities where strategic partnerships between Celcom and the Malaysian Royal Police force (PDRM) allows the police force in Malaysia to have an integrated communication network that allows them to operate at an elevated efficiency and effectiveness level.

Beyond that, Celcom’s strategic partnership also offers traffic and fleet management capabilities like no other. With Celcom Business’ clever traffic monitoring and management, you can ensure your deliveries are alwayson time. It also allows you to ensure that your deliveries are done in the most economically efficient manner. At the same time, Celcom Business’ fleet management can help you keep track of every vehicle’s condition to ensure that you are always operating at an optimum state. All of this allows Celcom’s partner to develop unique technologies and tools for a more sustainable city.

To find out more about Celcom Business and how it can help you, you can head on to their website.

*DISCLAIMER: This is a paid advertorial by Celcom Axiata Berhad. It does not reflect the opinions or views of the techENT editorial board or writers.*

PR Newswire

Electrolux Q3 2022 Interim report: Weak North America and strength in emerging markets

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STOCKHOLM, Oct. 28, 2022 /PRNewswire/ — 

Highlights of the third quarter of 2022     

  • Net sales increased to SEK 35,244m (30,929), corresponding to an organic sales growth of 1.2%. Strong price execution and mix improvements were partly offset by significantly lower volumes driven by weaker market demand.
  • Operating income amounted to SEK -385m (1,639), corresponding to a margin of -1.1% (5.3).
  • Operating income includes a negative non-recurring item of SEK 350m, related to the exit from the Russian market, impacting business area Europe. Excluding this non-recurring item, operating income amounted to SEK -35m, corresponding to a margin of -0.1% (5.3). In addition to the weaker market environment, supply chain imbalances resulted in a significantly elevated cost level, mainly in business area North America that reported a loss of SEK 1.2bn.
  • A Group-wide cost reduction and North America turnaround program was initiated in the quarter and is expected to have a SEK 4-5bn positive earnings contribution in 2023. The program is expected to lead to a restructuring charge of SEK 1.2-1.5bn in the fourth quarter of 2022.
  • Income for the period amounted to SEK -605m (1,143) and earnings per share were SEK -2.23 (3.98).
  • Operating cash flow after investments was SEK -1,483m (-198), mainly a result of the reported loss.

President and CEO Jonas Samuelson’s comment

In the third quarter, the weaker market environment in combination with supply chain imbalances resulted in significantly lower volumes and operational inefficiencies that led to breakeven earnings, excluding the one-time cost to exit the Russian market. Price once again offset significant cost inflation, predominantly in raw materials and logistics. The year-over-year earnings decline was primarily driven by business area North America, that reported a substantial loss, but also by our European operations. Both of our other business areas, Latin America and Asia-Pacific, Middle East and Africa, increased earnings through successful product launch execution and good cost management.

High general inflation and low consumer confidence resulted in market demand declining in the quarter with the exception of Asia-Pacific, Middle East and Africa, where demand was solid. In Europe and the U.S., deteriorating consumer sentiment resulted in an accelerated demand decrease compared with the second quarter. The impact of the slowdown in consumer demand was further amplified by high retailer inventory levels. Consumer sentiment is also next year assessed to be negatively impacted by inflation and higher interest rates. Hence, market demand in both Europe and North America for the full-year of 2023 is expected to further deteriorate, i.e. be negative year-over-year.

Against this background, a Group-wide cost reduction and North America turnaround program was initiated in the quarter. We are also reviewing our production capacity needs given current market situation.

Cost reduction and North America turnaround program

The program is for the full-year of 2023 expected to result in a positive year-over-year earnings contribution of SEK 4-5bn from both Cost efficiency and reduced Investments in innovation and marketing. The activities implemented under the program will gradually contribute to earnings over the course of 2023 and into 2024. Total cost reduction from the program is estimated to be in excess of SEK 7bn. The majority of the targeted cost savings will be realized in business area North America. The program is expected to lead to a restructuring charge in the fourth quarter of 2022 in the range of SEK 1.2-1.5bn, which will be reported as a non-recurring item. 3,500-4,000 positions will be affected by the program. For the sake of clarity, the cost reduction from the program includes and replaces the previously communicated benefits from the SEK 8bn global re-engineering investments.

The Group-wide cost reduction element of the program will primarily focus on three areas.

One area is to eliminate cost inefficiencies in our supply chain and production by adapting sales and production plans to what can be supplied in a stable manner and to right-size the workforce in our factories.

Another area is to leverage the organizational changes which took effect on July 1 this year. Through these changes, we have created stronger global organizations for operations, sales, admin, R&D and IT, which is also enabling efficiency gains.

Finally, we are optimizing our R&D and marketing investments. This includes leveraging recent global investment programs in R&D and prioritizing the highest ROI-opportunities as well as centralizing marketing and brand building activities.

Regarding business area North America, I am obviously very disappointed with our performance. The production transformation with the two new facilities Anderson and Springfield including several new product platforms, in combination with the particularly challenging supply chain conditions, require additional measures to return to stability and profitability. In addition to the three areas mentioned above for the whole Group, key activities for the North America turnaround are to stabilize and improve operational planning and to significantly improve cost efficiency in Anderson and Springfield to ensure cost competitiveness in these new production facilities. We remain highly confident in the consumer appeal of the new product ranges, which also the sales execution in the quarter resulting in year-over-year market share gains proves.

Providing resource efficient products is at the core of our strategy and recently consumers have become more aware of both consumption and price of energy. Our new European built-in fridge freezer range is much more energy efficient and hence delivers significant electricity cost benefits to consumers as well as up to 20% less CO2 emissions in the user phase than the previous range.

Although we are experiencing a challenging time, I am confident that Electrolux remains well positioned to create value and we will continue to invest in consumer experience innovations.

Telephone conference 09.00 CET

A telephone conference is held at 09.00 CET today, October 28. Jonas Samuelson, President and CEO and Therese Friberg, CFO will comment on the report.

Details for participation by telephone

Sweden: +46 8 56 64 26 51
International/UK: +44 33 33 00 08 04
U.S.: +1 63 19 13 14 22

Pin/Passcode: 70461836#

Slide presentation for download

www.electroluxgroup.com/ir

Link to webcast

https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/2nrdyeek

For further information, please contact:
Sophie Arnius, Head of Investor Relations
+46 70 590 80 72
Electrolux Press Hotline,
+46 8 657 65 07

This is information that AB Electrolux is obliged to make public pursuant to the EU Market Abuse Regulation. The information was submitted for publication, through the agency of the contact person set out above, on 28-10-2022 08:00 CET.

The following files are available for download:

PR Newswire

Frost & Sullivan Institute Recognizes Industry Leaders with Enlightened Growth Leadership Awards for 2022

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SANTA CLARA, Calif., Oct. 28, 2022 /PRNewswire/ — The Frost & Sullivan Institute’s Enlightened Growth Leadership Best Practices Recognition honors companies that are driven and committed to their pursuit of excellence, while ensuring a healthy balance between growth and sustainability. The Institute bestows this prestigious recognition on companies that have demonstrated excellence in growth and have proactively taken initiative, both internally and externally to address key global priorities.

The Frost & Sullivan Institute's Enlightened Growth Leadership Best Practices Recognition honors companies that are driven and committed to their pursuit of excellence, while ensuring a healthy balance between growth and sustainability.
The Frost & Sullivan Institute’s Enlightened Growth Leadership Best Practices Recognition honors companies that are driven and committed to their pursuit of excellence, while ensuring a healthy balance between growth and sustainability.

“At Frost & Sullivan Institute, we believe that transformation truly arises from responsible decision making. This recognition is significant in terms of reiterating an organization’s commitment to growth with a moral imperative and to delivering value to its stakeholders, including its employees, investors, and customers,” said Prerna Mohan, Director, Frost & Sullivan Institute.

Frost & Sullivan Institute follows its proprietary, 8 step, measurement-based methodology, combined with extensive research, in-depth analyses, and benchmarking, to shortlist recipients. Being one of the few existing methodologies that equally weights growth and Environment, Social, Governance (ESG), this recognition is one of the Institute’s most prestigious best practices recognitions. The winners represent the best of the best.

Frost & Sullivan Institute congratulates all recipients of the Enlightened Growth Leadership Best Practices Recognition. As we did last year, we will recognize and celebrate the 2022 recipients at our Virtual Awards Banquet in November.

Recipients:

Cellnex

Computacenter

ContourGlobal

ACCIONA Energía

Crayon

Croda International

Dassault Aviation

Dassault Systèmes

Deliveroo

Delivery Hero

Dermapharm Group

Deutsche Telekom

DiaSorin/ DiaSorin Group

Drax Group

E.ON

Eevia Health Plc

Efecte Plc

Einhell Germany AG

Elia group

Elmera Group ASA

ElvalHalcor

Embracer Group

EnBW

Endeavour Mining

EssilorLuxottica

Eurofins Scientific

Fluidra

Fortum Corporation

Garmin Ltd.

Genmab A/S 

Gränges

Grupa Azoty S.A.

Grupa Kety S.A. 

Harbour Energy plc

Hera S.p.A.

ICON plc

Infineon Technologies AG

Instalco

Interpump Group

Ipsen S.A.

Iren S.p.A.

James Hardie Industries plc

Jazz Pharmaceuticals plc

Kingspan Group plc

Lifco AB

Linde 

Logitech International

Medicover AB 

Medios AG 

MercadoLibre, Inc. 

Metso Outotec

Micro Focus

Midwich

MYTILINEOS SA

NIBE Industrier AB

Nolato AB

Nordex SE

OMV

PGE Polska Grupa Energetyczna S.A.

Picanol Group

About Frost & Sullivan Institute

The Frost & Sullivan Institute (FSI) is a non-profit organization dedicated to utilizing business practices to address global priorities. The genesis of the institute goes back to the vision of either creating, or becoming part of, a solution that addresses threats to humanity. The Institute has identified strategic imperatives for transformation and believes that we can truly accelerate innovation to zero. To learn more about FSI, visit www.frostandsullivaninstitute.org

About Frost & Sullivan

For six decades, Frost & Sullivan has been world-renowned for its role in helping investors, corporate leaders, and governments navigate economic changes and identify disruptive technologies, Mega Trends, new business models, and companies to action, resulting in a continuous flow of growth opportunities to drive future success.

Contact us: Start the discussion.

Media Contact:

Prerna Mohan
Email: [email protected]

Related Links
www.frost.com 
www.frostandsullivaninstitute.org

PR Newswire

LG Innotek Releases 2022 3rd Quarter Earnings Report

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  • Sales of KRW 5,387.4 billion and operating profit of KRW 444.8 billion in the 3rd quarter
    – Sales increased by 41.9% and operating profit increased by 32.5% from the same period of the last year.
  • High-performance camera modules and semiconductor substrates led the sales of Smartphone components
  • Sales in all product groups of electric components such as the communication module and power for electric vehicles increased

SEOUL, South Korea, Oct. 27, 2022 /PRNewswire/ — LG Innotek (CEO Jeong Cheol-dong) achieved sales of KRW 5,387.4 billion and operating profit of KRW 444.8 billion in the third quarter of 2022 according to the Korea International Financial Reporting Standards (K-IFRS). Sales and operating profit increased by 41.9% and 32.5% respectively from the same period of the last year. Compared to the previous quarter, the company’s sales increased by 45.5%, and profits increased by 53.4%. *As of Oct. 27, KRW 1,000 is $0.71.

The company representative stated that “We officially initiated the mass production for the new model on our customer, and the supply of the high-performance camera module for Smartphones was expanded to lead the increase in sales,” and added, “Along with semiconductor substrates for 5G communication, all products groups in the electric components such as the vehicle communication module and power for electric vehicles expanded in sales to support the increase.”

Performance by Business Units

Optics Solution Business recorded sales of KRW 4,439.5 billion, a 48% increase from the same period of the last year. Supply for the new model on the customer was initiated in full-scale to increase in sales centrally on the high value added products such as the multiple camera module for Smartphones and 3D sensing module, etc. The sales compared to the previous quarter was increased by 58%.

Substrate & Material Business recorded sales of KRW 435.6 billion, a 3% increase from the same period of the last year. Due to the supply for the new model on the customer was expanded to lead the increase in the sales of semiconductor substrates for 5G communication. Meanwhile, display components including the tape substrate and photomask suffered due to the decrease in demand from the front industries including TV/IT products, etc. The sales compared to the previous quarter was decreased by 4%.

Automotive Components Business recorded sales of KRW 380.8 billion, a 48% increase from the same period of the last year and a 15% increase from the quarter prior. As the demand from the front industries increased and expanded in the demand for electric vehicles/autonomous driving vehicles, the sales from all product groups including the vehicle communication module and power for electric vehicles were increased to lead the continuous sales growth for 5 consecutive quarters.

Moreover, LG Innotek succeeded in improving the profitability through elitism of product/customer structure, reinforcement of global SCM capabilities, and development centrally on the platform model (universal products for minimizing the need for customizing).

2022 3rd Quarter Earnings by LG Innotek

(Unit: KRW 100 million)

Classification

2022.3Q

2021.3Q

Increase
Compared to

Same Period
in the
Previous Year

2022.2Q

Increase
Compared

to the
Previous
Quarter

Sales

53,874

37,976

41.9 %

37,026

45.5 %

Operating
profit

4,448

3,357

32.5 %

2,899

53.4 %

* The table above shows tentative consolidated sales performance in accordance with K-IFRS.

About LG Innotek Co.,Ltd.

LG Innotek is a cutting-edge materials and components manufacturer and an affiliate of the LG group. The company’s business units include core components for mobile, automotive, display, semiconductor, and IoT products. Furthermore, the company has cooperated closely with the mobile devices, home appliances, and automotive companies, producing camera modules, automotive electronic components, wireless communication modules, and substrate materials.

LG Innotek is headquartered in Seoul, Korea and its sales subsidiaries are located in Germany, USA, Mainland China, Japan, and Taiwan with production subsidiaries in Mainland China, Vietnam, Indonesia, Mexico, and Poland. For more information, please refer to the website: www.lginnotek.com

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PR Newswire

UL Solutions Opens Automotive Electromagnetic Compatibility Laboratory in Taiwan

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UL Solutions enhances its testing capabilities for electromagnetic compatibility, radio frequency and Internet of Things in Taiwan to provide comprehensive in-vehicle device testing services.

NORTHBOOK, Ill., Oct. 27, 2022 /PRNewswire/ — UL Solutions, a global leader in applied safety science, today announced the opening of its new state-of-the-art automotive electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) laboratory in Hsinchu, Taiwan. This new laboratory localizes services and technology to provide EMC testing to international standards and original equipment manufacturer (OEM) requirements for automotive electronic components. With advanced technologies, equipment, and the company’s safety science expertise and service capabilities, the new facility helps UL Solutions meet the testing needs of Taiwan’s automotive components industry.

This new laboratory localizes UL Solutions services and technology in Taiwan to provide EMC testing to international standards and original equipment manufacturer (OEM) requirements for automotive electronic components.
This new laboratory localizes UL Solutions services and technology in Taiwan to provide EMC testing to international standards and original equipment manufacturer (OEM) requirements for automotive electronic components.

“With the opening of this laboratory, combined with the UL Solutions Internet of Things (IoT) Lab in Hsinchu and the E-mobility and Energy Laboratory in Taoyuan, we are confident that the testing capabilities offered by UL Solutions for automotive components will provide manufacturers in Taiwan with a complete range of testing services and a single source of service,” Jonathan TH Chen, vice president and managing director of UL Solutions in Taiwan, said. “Our professional testing technologies and quality services meet the latest international standards and help enable manufacturers in Taiwan to enter the global automotive electronic component market safely and quickly.”

Influenced by factors such as climate change and the rapid advancement of technology, the automotive industry is moving toward four major trends: connected, shared, autonomous and electric vehicles. These trends are helping to drive the overall growth of automotive electronic components, such as advanced driver-assist systems (ADAS), infotainment systems and vehicle connectivity devices. In addition to the existing automotive component manufacturers in Taiwan, information and communication technology (ICT) and electronics OEMs have also entered the global automotive electronics market.

“One of the most important features of our services is that we can help customers understand the method, content and meaning of EMC testing. This understanding helps them to develop and adjust their product design strategies more quickly and shorten the time required to complete product testing,” Chen said. “With the collaboration of three laboratories in Hsinchu and Taoyuan and the support of our advanced technology and experience in automotive EMC testing laboratories in Japan and South Korea, we can provide more comprehensive automotive EMC testing services to help manufacturers in Taiwan capture business opportunities in the global automotive electronics market.”

About UL Solutions
A global leader in applied safety science, UL Solutions transforms safety, security and sustainability challenges into opportunities for customers in more than 100 countries. UL Solutions delivers testing, inspection and certification services, together with software products and advisory offerings, that support our customers’ product innovation and business growth. The UL Certification Marks serve as a recognized symbol of trust in our customers’ products and reflect an unwavering commitment to advancing our safety mission. We help our customers innovate, launch new products and services, navigate global markets and complex supply chains and grow sustainably and responsibly into the future. Our science is your advantage.

PRESS CONTACT:
Steven Brewster
UL Solutions
[email protected]
T: +1 (847) 664.8425

PR Newswire

ACE Money Transfer and Bank AL Habib Join Hands to Provide Secure and Free Money Transfers to Pakistan

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MANCHESTER, England, Oct. 27, 2022 /PRNewswire/ — ACE Money Transfer, a leading UK-based international remittance service provider, and Bank AL Habib, one of the largest banking networks across Pakistan, in line with Pakistan Remittance Initiative’s (PRI) vision, have ramped efforts to promote legal channels of remittances by offering free, easy, faster, and secure transfers.

ACE Money Transfer and Bank AL Habib Join Hands to Provide Secure and Free Money Transfers to Pakistan
ACE Money Transfer and Bank AL Habib Join Hands to Provide Secure and Free Money Transfers to Pakistan

An awareness campaign, including 950 buses, 100 roadside posters and 25 underground stations across the UK, is ongoing, educating expats on the kerb market’s downsides that lead to risky and undocumented transfers.

Mr Rashid Ashraf, CEO of ACE Money Transfer, said, “Expats sending remittances consider many factors, but transfer cost, exchange rates, speed, and security are a few primary concerns. With Bank AL Habib’s vast network and our state-of-the-art technology, we can address them all and offer an experience our customers love.”

Mr Aun Ali, Group Head – Business of Bank AL Habib, commented, “This affiliation will help both organisations serve Pakistani expatriates for instant and secure transactions. Bank AL Habib keeps playing a vital role in routing remittances through official channels and in providing our services in collaboration with ACE Money Transfer.”

ABOUT ACE MONEY TRANSFER

ACE Money Transfer (registered name ‘Aftab Currency Exchange Limited’), based out of Manchester, UK, is a growing remittance provider. It offers impeccable online money transfer services to millions of expatriates with an extensive network of 375,000+ locations spread across 100+ countries worldwide.

ABOUT BANK AL HABIB

Dawood Habib Group, the sponsor of Bank AL Habib Limited, has a long track record in banking that dates back to the 1920s. The Group was among the founder members of Habib Bank Limited and played a major role in meeting Pakistan’s financial and banking needs. It was nationalised along with other Banks in Pakistan on January 1, 1974.

Bank AL Habib was incorporated as a Public Limited Company in October 1991 and started banking operations in 1992. It is now one of the leading banks in Pakistan, known for its high level of customer service. It has a strong network of over 1050 branches and sub-branches in 433 cities across the country, including a wholesale branch in Bahrain and Malaysia and representative offices in China, UAE, Turkey and Kenya.

Media Contact:
[email protected]
+44 161 3936 999

Business, Lifestyle, News

iQIYI’s New Malaysian Show “Sorry Naik Lori” Seamlessly Integrates Branding & Story Telling

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As consumers, we’re being inundated with more content than ever in this day and age. We’ve also become even more discerning, particularly in advertising and branding. What’s more, with the rise of over-the-top (OTT) services like iQIYI, Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+ Hotstar, we’ve become even more selective of where we place our time when it comes to consuming media. Realising these trends, iQIYI has partnered with food delivery provider and app, foodpanda, to marry entertainment and branding with their latest series “Sorry Naik Lori”.

SNL Poster Group V1 SNS date

The new series is a first-of-its-kind collaboration between iQIYI and food panda in which the two companies worked from the bottom up to integrate foodpanda’s branding and app in the series. This process started with a collaboration between iQIYI, foodpanda and Universal McCann in developing the scripting and concept for the series. In the end, they produced a quintessentially Malaysian tale that tells the story of a husband and wife as they pursue two different versions of success.

“Sorry Naik Lori” follows the misadventures of Khairul, a young lorry driver living in Penang who is averse to Social Media and his wife, Nadia, who dreams of becoming a successful social media influencer. Nadia stumbles upon success when she becomes “ComelPasembur” when a NikNok video of her at her mother’s Pasembur restaurant goes viral. As her following grows, she is approached by a talent agency and decides to pursue her dreams against her husband’s wishes. This forces Khairul to learn to navigate the world of social media as he tries to keep his marriage alive while Nadia is forced to hide her marriage in pursuit of social media stardom.

WhatsApp Image 2022 10 26 at 9.42.56 PM

The series also integrates a foodpanda rider, Talib, played by Tajul. The character not only plays a role in foodpanda’s brand integration into the series but also helps further the plot and misadventures in the slice-of-life rom-com.

The series is steeped in the Malay culture of Malaysia’s most popular island – Penang. Everything from the mannerisms and dialect used in “Sorry Naik Lori” is infused with typical Penangite flavours. The series stars Nizam Othman as Khairul and Ruhainies as Nadia. They are supported by a notable cast which includes local singer, Tajul, TikToker Ahmad Saffuan, Nafiz Muaz, Sheila Mambo and Asha Zainul.

“Sorry Naik Lori” premieres on 4th November 2022 on iQIYI. iQIYI’s freemium model allows you to enjoy the series for free with ads. However, if you want an uninterrupted viewing experience, you can just sign up for iQIYI’s VIP subscription for as low as MYR11.90.

Accessories, Computers, Gaming, Lifestyle

Rode Launches Rode X – Made for Gamers and Streamers

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If you are into video production, or if you are looking to start your own podcast and streaming career or hobby, you might be familiar with Rode. They are known currently to make some high-quality audio capture products for video and podcasting work at a fraction of the price of what you want to consider as “professional” grade gears. While they have been regarded also as some of the best and most sought-after brand in the world of audio capture for videos and podcasts, they feel like they have not tapped into one market: the gaming industry.

While this was not really a thing 10 years prior, streamers are a thing now. Where there are gamers, there will be streamers in the current video games industry. Of course, Rode must be part of that action. Introducing the Rode X line-up.

Unlike the usual Rode stuff, you get for your video cameras, the Rode X sub-brand does not offer you any regular audio capture hardware you might be used to. You do not get a mixer, or a mic with XLR output. You instead get a software solution to accompany USB connected mics for your PC.

In a way, this makes high-quality podcast type mics a lot more accessible to aspiring streamers. USB type connection also makes the technology a lot simpler to work with. Users do not need an inherent knowledge on operating the traditional audio capture gears like a mixing console, getting digital outputs to work with their PC, or even choosing between dynamic and condenser type mics. You simply plug the mics in, and you are ready to go, almost.

Instead of a physical mixing console, you get UNIFY, Rode’s proprietary software for the Rode X range of devices. Via UNIFY, users can fine tune their mics to their own desired qualities, make themselves sound good, or at least to levels and qualities they are happy with. There is a built-in high-pass filter mode, APHEX Aural Exciter, and Big Bottom within the software itself for you to have complete control over your voice.

They also say that the UNIFY PC app also simplifies audio routing, mixing, and processing. We are guessing that this could also mean that the app might be able to support multiple Rode X mic inputs at the same time on a single PC, which is always a blessing since Windows’ audio routing is rather frustrating with multiple inputs.

XCM-50 – Simply Plug, and Play

rode XCM 50 three quarter 6000x5000 rgb 3807x3171 3b45de7
Source: Rode X
rode XCM 50 front on with tripod II 6000x5000 rgb 2876x3794 aced140
Source: Rode X
rode XCM 50 side on 6000x5000 rgb 2158x2847 90da3d4
Source: Rode X
rode xcm 50 insitu unify table 9 2022 8192x5464 rgb
Source: Rode X
XCM 50 MicInputsCloseUp v01 653x784 rgb
Source: Rode X
rode XCM 50 tripod front 653x784 1
Source: Rode X
rode unify on pc laptop XCM 50
Source: Rode X
1 / 7

The simplest mic to work with in their stables is the XCM-50. While this is their entry-level product, Rode says that it still offers professional grade sound quality with features made for gamers and streamers. It is not just made for streaming purposes; it is also made for gamers that are looking to up their team chat quality.

It is a condenser type microphone, which also means it needs power. It gets it from the USB type-C port from the back of the device to be connected to a USB port on your PC. If you need to hear yourself, or even hear whatever you want to hear on your PC, there is a dedicated 3.5mm AUX jack for you to plug into. That also means that the condenser mic is not just your regular input mic, it is also your external DAC, sort of.

It is designed to pick up your voice and only your voice. The cardioid polar pattern can be quite narrow, and you need to be speaking directly into it for it to pick up. That also means that it is going to reject most of the noise that is around you to ensure that your teammates or audiences hear only you and not the noise your cat makes beside you. There is also an internal pop filter already so you do not need to get another that will get into your face.

XDM-100 – Professional and Natural

XDM PRODUCT image
Source: Rode X
rode XDM 100 dial close up 3240x3240 rgb 2456x3240 f175800
Source: Rode X
rode XDM 100 right three quater 2160x3840 rgb 3079x4062 d0710d6
Source: Rode X
rode xdm 100 insitu unify desk 2022 8179 x 5449 rgb 1920x1080 1ea0cac
Source: Rode X
rode x website insitu 5E Streamer Demo Aphex rgb 10 2022 8024x5352 rgb 1920x1080 a37ff71
Source: Rode X
XDM Topdown
Source: Rode X
rode XDM 100 dial close up 3240x3240 rgb 1080x1080 0dc479f
Source: Rode X
rode x xdm 100 bts03 1306x1568 rgb 1
Source: Rode X
craftyoursound
Source: Rode X
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If you are more familiar with audio gear, and just want to have the best type of voice for your multiplayer gaming, streaming, and podcasting purposes, then you go for the more premium XDM-100. It is larger than the entry-level condenser, which is quite normal for a dynamic mic. You also get an input volume control knob alongside a 3.5mm AUX jack for your headphone output.

Because dynamic mics are passive mics, they tend to sound a lot more natural than condenser mics, and this holds true for the XDM-100. Since it tends to be less sensitive than condensers, you generally want the mic to be closer to you. That way, it naturally cancels out noise that is further out from its central pick-up area. It naturally rejects keyboard noises and mouse clicks, for example. With built in pop filter, you are going to sound good however you speak.

The mic has built-in pre-amp, which is rather necessary for dynamic mics. That also means that it offers high-quality 24-bit/48kHz audio for that crisp and natural radio voice. Of course, you also get high-pass filter, APHEX Aural Exciter, and Big Bottom like the XCM-50. The UNIFY app also allows you to set a noise gate just to make sure that your streams are free of noise.

Price and Availability

The Rode X XCM-50 and XDM-100 are now available for purchase, but only in select regions. There is no specific local availability (Malaysia) mentioned. The XCM-50 will set you back US$ 149 (MYR*) while the XDM-100 is available for US$ 249 (MYR*). They are not exactly cheap, but they are significantly more accessible than full-on professional-grade podcasting set-ups. While they are only available in select regions, we are also confident that you might be able to get your hands on one or pre-order one from your favourite resellers (audio and video gear stores) in Malaysia. More on the Rode X can be found on their website

PR Newswire

ULTRALOQ U-Bolt Pro Z-Wave Smart Lock now Works with Home Assistant

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UNION CITY, Calif., Oct. 26, 2022 /PRNewswire/ — Today, the creator of the popular ULTRALOQ Z-Wave smart locks, U-tec, has announced to join the Works with Home Assistant program as a Z-Wave partner.

The world's first Z-Wave smart lock with fingerprint recognition
The world’s first Z-Wave smart lock with fingerprint recognition

ULTRALOQ U-Bolt Pro Z-Wave launched earlier this year, is the only Z-Wave smart lock in the industry that has a fingerprint recognition feature as well as integration with compatible Z-Wave wireless communication-enabled products.

What sets Z-Wave apart from other wireless communication technology like Wi-Fi and Bluetooth is that it is more energy-efficient – using low-energy radio waves to help smart devices communicate quickly with each other – and has a larger operating range.

Smarter life

When connected with the Home Assistant system, the U-Bolt Z-Wave Series smart locks can interact with other Z-Wave-compatible products that support Home Assistant, even when users are miles away from home. (Z-Wave stick required). 

Remember the epic romantic scene with the dimly lit room, slow, soothing music in the background, a bottle of wine, and flowers on the bed? Yes! U-Bolt Pro will not bring users wine and flowers, but it will automatically activate the music, turn on the lights, or even set up a comfortable indoor temperature. The perfect mood for a romantic night with partners will start with the touch of the fingerprint sensor without any wiring.

As a partner, U-tec and Nabu Casa will be working together to ensure the best experience for connecting ULTRALOQ Z-Wave smart locks to Home Assistant. As a partner, U-tec and Nabu Casa will be working together to ensure the best experience for connecting ULTRALOQ Z-Wave smart locks to Home Assistant.

Game changers

“ULTRALOQ U-Bolt Pro Z-Wave’s unique approach and technology is a game changer for Z-Wave smart lock,” said Clark Ruan, VP of U-tec. “As one of the nation’s leading smart locks, ULTRALOQ is founded on the idea of quality craftsmanship and attention to detail. The ULTRALOQ Lock aims to transform the traditional lock industry by allowing homeowners to offer innovation without having to compromise on their home experience.”

“ULTRALOQ smart locks use Z-Wave, an open standard that operates locally. This allows Home Assistant users to control ULTRALOQ U-Bolt Pro Z-Wave locally and securely, even if there is no internet service. When a user unlocks the lock, Home Assistant is instantly notified, allowing users to trigger automations,” said Paulus Schoutsen, founder of Home Assistant.

More about U-Bolt Pro Z-Wave

U-Bolt Pro Z-wave boasts the user-friendly and secure keyless entry that ULTRALOQ is known for. Thus, users will benefit from carrying the 6-in-1 keyless entry from U-Bolt Pro Series— fingerprint ID, Apple Watch, auto-unlock, number codes, and mechanical key unlocking available too.

Finger is your key: 360° Live Fingerprint ID of U-Bolt Series powered by AI self-learning fingerprint algorithm, which improves over time.

Auto Lock & Unlock: Hands Full? It Unlocks When users approach the door and also auto-lock when the door is closed.

Total Control From smartphones: Manage access of every person and the status of every door’s deadbolts with the App.  Lock and unlock the deadbolt from smartphone and Apple Watches.

Share Access to Guests: Grant visitors temporary codes or Ekeys for scheduled access. It works with or without phone. Real-time activity logs make it easier to know who has the access to user’s home and how.

The U-Bolt Pro Z-Wave is priced at $249.99 and is available now in your choice of black finishes. Don’t care about the fingerprint sensor? You can ditch that too, bringing the price all the way down to $179.

About U-tec

Located in Silicon Valley, U-tec invents and manufactures ULTRALOQ Whole-Home smart lock system that delivers an exceptional access experience for ultimate flexibility, security and convenience. U-tec is setting new standard for smart home security with its best-in-class design and advanced technologies. Every day, U-tec helps keep more than 1 million North American customers and their assets safe.

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PR Newswire

NetGain Systems continues to grow and evolve its Portfolio with the announcement of its Observability suite of solutions

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SINGAPORE, Oct. 26, 2022 /PRNewswire/ — NetGain Systems is pleased to announce its Observability suite of solutions, available both On-Prem and as-a-Service, that enables organizations to understand what is happening in and to their IT infrastructure.

Incorporating and underpinned by a new Artificial Intelligence for Operations (AI Ops) feature, NetGain’s Observability suite brings its IT Monitoring and Security Management solutions to the next level, whereby organizations will not only know how to respond to IT issues and prevent them from occurring, but also gather insightful data to improve service levels and achieve operational excellence.

Observability suite – Key Highlights

NetGain’s Observability suite is built upon the solutions in NetGain’s IT Monitoring and Security Management portfolio. These solutions have been incorporated into the Observability suite’s modular framework, whereby users can select various areas for observation from the following solutions:

  • Infrastructure Monitoring
  • Log Analytics
  • Security Analytics
  • Application Performance Management (APM)
  • Network Traffic Analytics (NTA)
  • Network Configuration Management (NCM)

A key element of the Observability suite is its Artificial Intelligence for Operations (AI Ops) feature, which together with Synthetic Monitoring and Dashboard 2.0 is being launched with the Observability suite.

AI Ops forms the bedrock of the Observability suite. By using AI to correlate metrics, logs and traces from across different sources in the IT infrastructure, users have full stack observability with actionable and timely insights into their IT operations. AI Ops is also used for:

  • Forecasting – estimating when a problem will arise, for example, due to insufficient resources
  • Outlier detection – identifying resources behaving differently from other similar resources
  • Anomaly detection – identifying resources behaving differently from its usual behavior

Synthetic Monitoring helps users ensure the continued and consistent performance of their applications. Users can create a simulated user transaction for an application that will be executed according to a preset schedule. The application would be monitored for functionality, availability and performance when the simulated user transaction is executed, and users will be alerted should it be found to be impaired when measured against expected SLAs.

Dashboard 2.0 provides users with a high-level view of the operating status of the various resources in the IT infrastructure. It displays live key performance data in easily understood tables, charts and graphs, and allows queries to be made and their results shown, making it ideal for use in on-screen displays in a Network Operating Center or with management staff.

Other changes made to the NetGain solution portfolio, which have also been incorporated into the Observability suite, include improvements to SIEM threat rules and data administration, the inclusion of cloud native service metrics, and the development of SaaS backend operations.

What has not changed is the ease-of-use which NetGain is noted for, where the solutions in the Observability suite have been designed to be easily deployed and operated by organizations with small IT departments. And to make it even easier, organizations can opt to have the Observability suite as a SaaS deployment instead of On-Prem.

James Chia, CEO of NetGain Systems:

“We are excited to announce our Observability suite. Enterprises have accelerated their investments into digital transformation over the past few years, making IT even more mission critical. NetGain’s Observability suite, and in particular AI Ops, will significantly help our clients improve their operations and user experience.  

This announcement extends NetGain’s proven track record of innovation in the IT monitoring space.  We remain committed to assisting our clients achieve operational excellence while anticipating their future technology requirements for many years to come.”

Giam Kai Boon, Director of Data Connect Technologies:

“As Singapore’s leading ICT solutions provider, Data Connect is excited to include NetGain’s Observability suite in our solution offerings. NetGain’s Observability suite will especially strengthen our MSP service offerings to our customers in Singapore and the region, allowing us to better manage their ICT operations and provide them with relevant insights on optimizing their use of ICT.” 

Availability

NetGain’s Observability suite is available immediately, for both On-Prem and SaaS deployments. Existing NetGain IT Monitoring and Security Management customers wishing to move to the Observability suite can do so by upgrading their NetGain EM (Enterprise Manager) to v12.

About NetGain Systems:

Founded in 2002, NetGain Systems is a pioneer in the IT monitoring business, and continues to develop its business as it evolves from IT monitoring to IT observability. It has established local teams throughout the Asia Pacific Region, including Australia, China and Singapore.

Regardless of location, type, size, or complexity, our solutions give our customers the power to observe their IT infrastructure, services, applications and devices with ease, all from a single management dashboard, to achieve operational excellence with reduced complexity and gain useful insights to improve business outcomes. By understanding that every organization’s IT environment is different, NetGain’s dynamic solutions are designed to be highly adaptable, fitting the unique demands of your operating environment and evolving with your growing organization.

For more information, please contact [email protected] or visit https://www.netgain-systems.com/.