Yearly Archives: 2024

Android, Mobile, News

Realme GT 6T Announced in India with Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 and 120Hz Refresh Rate

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Realme has unveiled the GT 6T, a new mid-range smartphone boasting flagship-level features. This phone is designed for users who prioritize performance, display quality, and long battery life, all at a competitive price point.

Realme GT 6T 2

The GT 6T is equipped with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 processor, a powerful chipset known for its ability to handle demanding tasks and games smoothly. This is paired with up to 12GB of LPDDR5X RAM, ensuring smooth multitasking and app performance. Storage options range from 128GB to a generous 512GB, providing ample space for apps, photos, and videos.

The GT 6T features a large 6.78-inch 120Hz LTPO AMOLED display with a 1264 x 2780 pixel resolution. This combination promises vibrant colours, sharp visuals, and a smooth viewing experience, whether you’re watching videos, browsing the web, or gaming. The display boasts a peak brightness of 1600 nits, making it easily viewable even in bright outdoor conditions. Additionally, the display utilizes an 8-fold increase in brightness to intelligently analyze on-screen content, ensuring details are preserved in both bright and dark areas.

Realme GT 6T (3)
Realme GT 6T (1)

The rear camera system on the Realme GT 6T consists of a triple-sensor setup. The primary sensor is a 50-megapixel wide-angle lens with OIS (Optical Image Stabilization) for capturing clear and detailed photos and videos. An 8-megapixel ultrawide lens allows you to capture expansive landscapes, while a 1-megapixel macro lens lets you get up close for detailed close-up shots. A 13-megapixel camera on the front handles selfies and video calls.

A highlight of the GT 6T is its massive 5,500mAh battery. This promises all-day usage on a single charge, with support for 120W SUPERVOOC fast charging to quickly refuel the device when needed. According to Realme, the 120W charger can take the phone from 0 to 50% in just 7 minutes.

Realme GT 6T (4)
Realme GT 6T (1)

The GT 6T runs on Android 14 with Realme UI 5.0 on top. This latest software iteration offers a refined user interface, improved privacy controls, and access to the latest Google features. Realme promises four major Android updates and five years of security updates, ensuring your phone stays protected and up-to-date for years to come.

The GT 6T incorporates an Iceberg Cooling System to manage heat and ensure sustained performance during demanding tasks like gaming. This system utilizes a combination of a vapour chamber, multiple graphite layers, and a stainless steel vapour cooling plate to dissipate heat effectively.

Pricing & Availability

The Realme GT 6T is currently available for pre-order in India. The starting price is INR 30,999 (approximately MYR 1,770 or USD 416) for the 8GB RAM + 128GB storage variant. The 12GB RAM + 256GB storage variant is priced at INR 34,999 (approximately MYR 2,020 or USD 473) and the top-of-the-line 12GB RAM + 512GB storage variant is priced at INR 38,999 (approximately MYR 2,270 or USD 530). The phone comes in two colour options: Razor Green and Fluid Silver.

It is expected to launch in other markets soon, but specific details on Malaysian launch dates and pricing are not yet available.

Social Media

YouTube’s War Against Ad Blockers Continues with the Platform Blocking Content Altogether

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The relationship between YouTube and ad blockers has always been a bit… strained. Creators rely on ad revenue to keep making the videos you love, while viewers often find ads disruptive and intrusive. Lately, however, things have taken a turn for the inconvenient, with reports suggesting YouTube might be taking a more aggressive stance against ad blockers.

Hand Holding Smartphone with Internet Access to YouTube
Photo by Szabó Viktor

Recent user experiences paint a frustrating picture. Reports indicate that some viewers with ad blockers are encountering issues such as videos automatically skipping to the end upon playback, or being stuck in endless buffering loops. Others describe sound issues, where the video plays with no audio until the volume slider is adjusted, only to be muted again shortly thereafter. While these issues might seem like glitches, the timing coincides with growing reports of YouTube’s new tactic.

There’s no official confirmation from YouTube, but the evidence suggests a deliberate strategy. Disabling videos or making them unplayable for ad blocker users would certainly incentivize them to turn off their blockers and view the ads that generate revenue for creators.

The Creator Conundrum

Many content creators rely on ad revenue to fund their work. Without that income, the quality and quantity of content we enjoy could be impacted. While ad blockers offer a solution for viewers seeking an uninterrupted experience, they can harm the creators who rely on ad revenue to keep making the content we love.

Finding a middle ground is ideal. Perhaps a less disruptive or intrusive ad format could be explored. For viewers who still prefer an ad-free experience, YouTube Premium offers a subscription option. Ultimately, the goal should be to create a sustainable ecosystem that benefits both creators and viewers.

What Can You Do?

If you’re experiencing playback issues with ad blockers, you can try temporarily disabling them to see if it resolves the problem. Keep in mind, that doing so will allow ads to play. Alternatively, consider supporting your favourite creators directly through features like YouTube channel memberships or Super Chat donations.

This situation is still developing, and it’s unclear what YouTube’s long-term strategy might be. One thing is certain: the war between ad blockers and monetization continues, and viewers are caught in the middle. Here’s hoping a solution emerges that allows us to enjoy great content without sacrificing a seamless viewing experience or the livelihood of content creators.

Lifestyle, News

Samsung Malaysia Announces Pre-registration for the new BESPOKE Jet Bot Combo Steam

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Samsung has unveiled the BESPOKE Jet Bot Combo Steam for those seeking a more efficient cleaning routine. This robot vacuum cleaner goes beyond basic suction, offering a comprehensive cleaning solution for your floors.

The yet-to-be-announced Jet Bot Combo boasts powerful suction to tackle dust and debris. However, what truly sets it apart is its high-temperature self-cleaning system. After mopping your floors, the system utilizes a combination of steam and water (ranging from 50 to 60°C) to thoroughly remove dirt from the mops itself. Additionally, the steam sanitizes the mops at a temperature of 100°C, ensuring a more hygienic clean for your home.

Bespoke Jet Bot Combo

Beyond its cleaning prowess, Samsung’s Jet Bot Combo Steam boasts a sleek and modern design that complements any décor. This robot vacuum seamlessly integrates into your existing furniture, ensuring a stylish addition to your home.

Ready to experience the future of clean floors? Register your interest online between May 28th and June 10th, 2024 to receive a voucher code for a discounted pre-order. Using your voucher code during the pre-order period between June 11th and June 24th, 2024, you’ll receive a discount of RM200 on the Jet Bot Combo Steam.

Business, Entertainment, Lifestyle

U Mobile Celebrates Kaamatan with Free 5G Bus and Exciting Activities

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U Mobile is kindling the spirit of Kaamatan to Sabah with Cara U Sabah: Kaamatan, a festive event happening from May 27th to 31st, 2024. Located right across from the Kadazan-Dusun Cultural Association (KDCA) where official Kaamatan celebrations unfold, Cara U Sabah: Kaamatan promises a fun-filled experience for all festivalgoers.

U Mobile Kaamatan 2024

U Mobile ups the ante this Kaamatan by launching Sabah’s first-ever 5G Bus! This double-decker provides free shuttle services between Imago Mall and KDCA, operating from 10 am to 7 pm daily. But it’s not just a ride – it’s an experience. Powered by U Mobile’s robust 5G network, passengers can enjoy lightning-fast internet access throughout the journey.

The 5G Bus isn’t just about connectivity. Passengers can also enjoy VR gaming, sing their hearts out at karaoke, be entertained by live busker performances, and strike a pose at the neon-lit Wall. Snap a photo with the wall, upload it to Instagram or TikTok, and you can win exciting prizes like 5G phones and earbuds! Feel free to stay onboard for multiple trips and experience everything the 5G Bus has to offer.

U Mobile Kaamatan 2024 KV 2

The 5G Bus drops you off at Cara U Sabah: Kaamatan, where even more excitement awaits. U Mobile is giving away 2,000 prizes throughout the event, including 5G phones, earbuds, Grab vouchers, and classic festival treats like popcorn and cotton candy. Meet your favourite ERA Sabah personalities, beauty queens, and content creators, and indulge in delicious offerings from GrabFood’s dedicated 5-star booth.

This event follows the recent opening of U Mobile’s first store in East Malaysia, located at Imago Shopping Mall, Kota Kinabalu. It’s another chapter in U Mobile’s ongoing commitment to expanding its brand presence and network in the region.

Ready to join the festivities? Visit the official Facebook event page for Cara U Sabah: Kaamatan and the first-ever 5G Bus!

Business, News

UniKL and Huawei Malaysia Join Forces to Advance Smart City and Flood Mitigation Technologies

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Universiti Kuala Lumpur (UniKL) and Huawei Malaysia have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on academic and research initiatives focused on smart city technology and urban disaster prevention, particularly flood mitigation. This partnership promises advancements in these critical areas while fostering innovation and practical training for future generations.

A central pillar of the collaboration is the establishment of a Huawei Intelligent Operation Center (IOC) at UniKL British Malaysian Institute (UniKL BMI). This centre will serve a dual purpose: providing valuable research and development (R&D) opportunities and empowering UniKL to offer authorized short-course training programs. Students and the public will benefit from gaining practical experience with cutting-edge smart city technologies.

The MoU also paves the way for knowledge exchange between Huawei Malaysia and UniKL on flood monitoring and control. This collaboration in research and information sharing holds promise for developing effective solutions to combat this recurring challenge in Malaysia.

Huawei UniKl

The signing ceremony, held at Huawei’s headquarters in Shenzhen, China, was witnessed by Malaysia’s Deputy Prime Minister, Dato’ Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Bin Hamidi. Signing on behalf of their respective organizations were Mr Simon Sun, Chief Executive Officer of Huawei Malaysia, and Associate Professor Ir Dr Azman Senin, President and Chief Executive Officer of UniKL.

Expressing his enthusiasm for the partnership, Dr Azman Senin stated, “This MoU underscores UniKL’s unwavering commitment to providing our students with access to the best learning opportunities and resources. We anticipate a productive collaboration with Huawei Malaysia that will benefit not only our students and researchers but also the wider community.”

Mr Simon Sun, CEO of Huawei Malaysia, elaborated on the significance of the IOC: “The Huawei IOC utilizes vast amounts of industry-specific data to generate predictive models, aiding in efficient resource allocation during critical situations like floods. This ultimately leads to better city management and paves the way for a connected, intelligent future for smart cities. The UniKL BMI-based IOC will serve as a powerful educational and R&D tool, equipping students and researchers for the challenges and opportunities of tomorrow.”

This partnership between UniKL and Huawei Malaysia signifies a significant step forward. By combining academic expertise with industry knowledge, they aim to tackle real-world challenges, nurture the next generation of innovators, and contribute to building smarter and more resilient Malaysian cities.

Android, Mobile

Samsung Unveils the Galaxy M35 5G in Brazil

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Samsung has unveiled a new addition to its M series lineup, the Galaxy M35 5G. This mid-range smartphone caters to users who prioritize long battery life, a large display, and capable performance for everyday tasks.

Galaxy M35 5G 1

The Galaxy M35 5G features a 6.6-inch S-AMOLED display with an FHD+ resolution (1080 x 2400 pixels) and a smooth 120Hz refresh rate. This combination promises vibrant colours, sharp visuals, and a responsive experience for watching videos, gaming, and browsing the web. The phone utilizes a textured plastic back that is available in three colour options: Dark Blue, Gray, and Sky Blue.

The Galaxy M35 5G is powered by the Samsung Exynos 1380 chipset, a mid-range processor known for its balanced performance and efficiency. This is paired with 8GB of RAM and 256GB of internal storage, offering ample space for apps, photos, and videos. A microSD card slot allows for further storage expansion if needed.

A highlight of the Galaxy M35 5G is its massive 6,000mAh battery. This promises all-day usage on a single charge, with support for 25W fast charging to quickly refuel the device when needed.

Galaxy M35 5G (2)
Galaxy M35 5G (3)
Galaxy M35 5G (4)
Galaxy M35 5G (8)
Galaxy M35 5G (9)
Galaxy M35 5G (10)
Galaxy M35 5G (5)
Galaxy M35 5G (6)
Galaxy M35 5G (7)

The rear camera system on the Galaxy M35 5G consists of three sensors: a primary 50-megapixel wide-angle lens with OIS (Optical Image Stabilization) for capturing sharp photos and videos, an 8-megapixel ultrawide lens for capturing expansive scenes, and a 2-megapixel macro lens for close-up shots. A 13-megapixel camera on the front handles selfies and video calls.

The Galaxy M35 5G runs on Android 14 with Samsung’s One UI 6.1 on top. This latest software iteration offers a refined user interface, improved privacy controls, and access to the latest Google features. Samsung promises four major Android updates and five years of security updates, ensuring your phone stays protected and up-to-date for years to come.

Pricing & Availability

The Samsung Galaxy M35 5G is currently only available for pre-order in Brazil. The starting price is BRL 1,899 (approximately RM1,770 or USD$416) for the 8GB RAM + 256GB storage variant. It’s available in Dark Blue, Light Blue and Black. It is expected to launch in other markets soon.

Business, News

CelcomDigi Puts Customers in the Driver’s Seat for New Retail Store Design

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CelcomDigi is shaking things up with a unique approach to retail store design. In a first for Malaysia, CelcomDigi is inviting customers to co-create the interior design of their upcoming CelcomDigi stores, promising a more engaging and customer-centric experience.

Starting today and running until June 3rd, 2024, customers can participate in the “Design the New CelcomDigi Store” campaign. This online initiative, accessible through the CelcomDigi website, allows customers to submit their ideas on how to enhance the look and feel of the stores, ultimately shaping the overall in-store experience. Participants can also share their design ideas on social media using the hashtag . Who knows, you might see your vision come to life in the new stores!

CelcomDigi Retail Transformation

This customer-centric design initiative is part of CelcomDigi’s year-long retail transformation program. The program aims to deliver the best possible experience for customers navigating the ever-evolving digital landscape. This transformation includes consolidating the existing network of Celcom Bluecubes and Digi Stores into a unified CelcomDigi brand. These new stores will act as a one-stop shop for all things connectivity, offering the latest products and services to meet a wide range of customer needs.

“Our recent integration of retail touchpoints has allowed us to seamlessly serve both Celcom and Digi customers,” said CelcomDigi’s Chief Sales & Retail Officer, Cheng Weng Hong. “This retail transformation takes things a step further, solidifying our retail footprint with a unified brand identity. A single store will allow us to better cater to the ever-growing connectivity needs of our customers.”

Cheng further elaborated on the gamified approach to design, stating, “By involving customers through this interactive campaign, we’re making them a part of CelcomDigi’s transformation journey. The online game will provide valuable insights and inspiration for the ideal interior layout, ensuring a comfortable and efficient experience for customers from the moment they step through the door.”

Throughout the retail transformation period, CelcomDigi is committed to ensuring minimal disruption for customers. They guarantee continued support and reliable service experiences. During any store closures for renovation, customers will be directed to the nearest operational store. In some locations, temporary CelcomDigi pop-up stores will be established to ensure service continuity. Additionally, customers can always leverage the convenience of self-serve transactions through the Celcom Life or MyDigi apps.

Stay tuned for further details on the retail transformation program and updates on participating stores in the coming weeks.

Business, News

Equinix Expands to Malaysia, Bolstering the Nation’s Digital Infrastructure with Dual Metro Data Centres

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Equinix Inc., a global leader in digital infrastructure, has expanded its footprint in Southeast Asia with the opening of two new International Business Exchange (IBX) data centres in Malaysia. The launch of these facilities in Johor (JH1) and Kuala Lumpur (KL1) signifies a significant step forward for Malaysia’s digital ambitions, providing businesses with access to a robust and interconnected digital ecosystem.

Equinix Dual Metro Data Centers 03

Equinix’s entry into Malaysia aligns with the nation’s MyDIGITAL initiative, a government-led strategy to accelerate the development of digital products and services. These carrier-neutral data centres offer a cloud-adjacent and network-dense environment, catering to businesses seeking seamless digital infrastructure solutions. By joining Platform Equinix, Malaysian companies gain access to a global network of over 10,000 enterprises, including leading cloud service providers, content delivery networks, and network service providers. This connectivity empowers businesses to embrace digital transformation and keep pace with the evolving technological landscape.

A Closer Look at JH1 & KL1

Located in Nusajaya Tech Park, Johor, the JH1 facility boasts an initial investment of US$40 million and offers up to 500 cabinets and 1,800 square meters of colocation space. Strategically positioned near Singapore, this data centre caters to both local and regional businesses. The KL1 facility, situated in Cyberjaya, just outside of Kuala Lumpur, is expected to provide a total of 900 cabinets and 2,630 square meters of colocation space upon completion. Notably, both facilities are powered by 100% renewable energy, reflecting Equinix’s commitment to environmental sustainability.

Equinix Dual Metro Data Centers 02
KL1 Exterior (Source: Equinix)

Equinix plans to introduce a comprehensive suite of interconnection and digital services at both JH1 and KL1. This includes Equinix Internet Access, Equinix Fabric, Equinix Fabric Cloud Router, and Equinix Internet Exchange (IX). These services empower businesses with enhanced scalability, optimized performance, and seamless connectivity, allowing them to thrive in the digital age.

Equinix Dual Metro Data Centers 01
JH1 Exterior (Source: Equinix)

The official opening of the JH1 and KL1 data centres marks a significant milestone for Malaysia’s digital transformation journey. By providing access to a global digital ecosystem and advanced technologies, Equinix is empowering Malaysian businesses to compete on the international stage and propels the nation towards a prosperous future in the digital economy.

Android, Mobile

The Honor 200 Series Makes Mainland China Debut; Priced from CNY2,699

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Honor has officially unveiled its latest smartphone series, the Honor 200 and Honor 200 Pro. These mid-range devices cater to users who prioritize performance and a long-lasting battery for everyday tasks.

Both phones are powered by capable processors. The Honor 200 features the Qualcomm Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 chipset, known for its balanced performance and efficiency. The Honor 200 Pro takes things a step further with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 chipset, ideal for users who demand smooth multitasking and handling graphics-intensive applications.

Honor 200 Pro

Both the Honor 200 and Honor 200 Pro boast a sizable 5,200mAh battery, promising ample power for extended use throughout the day. 100W wired charging on both models ensures you can quickly refuel your device when needed. Only the Pro version supports 66W wireless charging, offering an additional convenient charging option.

The Honor 200 and Honor 200 Pro share a similar display. They feature a large 6.78-inch OLED panel with a QHD+ resolution (1224 x 2700 pixels) and a smooth 120Hz refresh rate. This combination offers vibrant colours, sharp visuals, and a responsive touch experience for watching videos, gaming, and browsing the web.

Honor 200

The camera systems differ slightly between the two models. The Honor 200 sports a 50-megapixel, 1/1.56-inch main sensor with f/1.95 aperture and OIS (Optical Image Stabilization). This is accompanied by additional lenses for capturing various scenes. The Honor 200 Pro steps it up with a custom 50-megapixel 1/1.3-inch H9000 sensor, also featuring OIS, promising superior image quality, especially in low-light conditions. Both the Pro and vanilla Honor 200 come with a 50-megapixel telephoto sensor with 2.5x optical zoom and a 12-megapixel ultra-wide sensor. Honor has also struck a partnership with French photography studio Harcourt for a special Harcourt Portrait mode that simulates professional studio lighting with AI.

Both phones run on Android 14 with Honor’s MagicOS 8.0 on top. This latest software iteration offers a refined user interface, improved privacy controls, and access to the latest Google features. Honor promises four major Android updates and five years of security updates, ensuring your phone stays protected and up-to-date for years to come.

Honor 200 Colours

Pricing & Availability

The Honor 200 series is currently only available for pre-order in China with open sales starting on May 31, 2024. The starting price for the Honor 200 (12GB RAM + 256GB storage) is CNY 2,699 (approximately MYR 1,570 or USD 368). The Honor 200 Pro starts at CNY 3,499 (approximately MYR 2,040 or USD 477) for the 12GB RAM + 256GB storage variant. Both phones come in four colour options: Moon Shadow White, Coral Pink, Sky Ocean Green and Velvet Black.

Business, Lifestyle, News

TM Unifi Introduces UniVerse: Customizable Bundles for Home Connectivity and Entertainment

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TM‘s Unifi has launched “UniVerse”, a new suite of customizable, converged packages designed to cater to the diverse needs of modern digital customers. UniVerse offers a one-stop shop for home connectivity, entertainment, and potentially even smart home features.

unifi launches universe packages 2 jpg

UniVerse departs from the traditional one-size-fits-all internet packages. It allows customers to build a plan that aligns with their specific requirements. This flexibility caters to various users, from individuals seeking basic internet access to families requiring high-speed connectivity, entertainment options, and smart home functionalities.

Unifi’s UniVerse consists of three core components: UniFi Home, UniFi Mobile, and UniFi TV. The diverse range of offerings allows users to customise and converge home fibre connectivity, mobile 5G connectivity and IPTV entertainment. Here’s a quick rundown of the offerings for each segment:

  • UniFi Home: Customers can choose from various internet speeds, ranging from a value-driven 100Mbps plan to a supercharged 800Mbps option for those who demand lightning-fast connectivity.
  • UniFi Mobile: UniVerse allows users to bundle their home internet plan with a data plan under the UniFi Mobile banner. This potentially offers cost savings and a convenient way to manage both services under one platform.
  • UniFi TV: UniVerse offers a variety of TV packages catering to different interests and budgets. This could include a basic package with local channels or a comprehensive family package with diverse entertainment options.
Choose Your UniVerse with Unifi

Unifi does offer the option to add smart home features to the UniVerse bundle. However, it doesn’t seem possible to include it in a bundle with Unifi TV, Fibre and Mobile. We expect that the offering will be available in the future. This could allow users to control lights, thermostats, and other compatible devices from the comfort of their couch or remotely using a smartphone.

Managing all internet, mobile, TV, and potentially even smart home features under one platform offers convenience. Customers can eliminate the need to juggle separate bills and providers. Bundling services through UniVerse has the potential to unlock significant savings compared to purchasing each service individually.

The launch of UniVerse signifies a potential shift in how Unifi caters to its customers. This customizable package suite empowers users to build a plan that reflects their needs and offers a convenient and potentially cost-effective way to manage their home’s digital landscape and entertainment options.