With the holiday season closing in as we enter the last month of the year, Sonos is kicking it off with their 12.12 promotion on their audio and speaker systems.
If you’re looking to brighten your living space or home theatre setup, you just might want to grab a couple of Sonos speakers during the sale. During the 12.12 promotion, you’ll be able to grab your favourite products at a special discount. Here are a few of the incredible deals you can expect to see:
Check out the full list of deals and purchase them on TC Acoustic’s official website or head over to the Sonos Concept Store at The Starhill if you prefer to shop in-person.
Apple’s Vision Pro gave VR and XR experiences extended time in the spotlight recently. However, it looks like Finnish company, Varjo, is about to steal that spotlight with its new headset – the XR-4. Varjo is banking on VR and XR experiences that are indistinguishable from real life with the XR-4.
While the Apple Vision Pro can work independently, the Varjo XR-4 must be connected to a fast-paced PC. The new XR-4 comes with controllers that were co-designed with Razer. It also doesn’t need any external VR base units for full-motion 6DoF, also known as six degrees of freedom tracking. The XR-4 has excellent specs, like a wider field of view (FOV) of 120 degrees horizontally and 105 degrees vertically. It also comes with LiDAR sensors that allow it to track and map more accurately. Varjo itself promises 8x clarity for better object and hand scanning in VR and a more accurate mixing of real-world and virtual reality images.
Varjo’s XR-4 moves further into AR and VR with a multifocal passthrough camera and higher headset resolution. The setup essentially blurs the lines between mixed reality and real life.
The Varjo XR-4 has a pixel quality of about 4K per eye and a pixel density of 51 pixels per degree. The display panel is a Mini-LED panel with a peak brightness of 200 nits. The cameras’ better dual 20-megapixel image sensors make the XR-4 even more powerful. Varjo’s Focal Edition, which includes gaze-directed autofocus cameras, is for people who want an even more advanced experience. This feature, controlled by the headset’s built-in eye tracking, makes the experience more immersive by letting you focus on real-world items and adding virtual ones on top of them.
Pricing & Availability
There are four variants of the XR-4. The first is the standard XR-4, which costs $3,990, and the Focal Edition, which costs $9,990.
Then there is the XR-4 Secure Edition, which has two variants: fixed-focused, which costs €7,990, and autofocus, which costs €13,990.
It can now be ordered via their official site only for companies and businesses, or join their waitlist to buy it individually and will only be shipped starting December.
GXBank, the Grab-led digital bank, has quietly introduced its GX Debit Card. This announcement comes on the heels of the announcement of its banking app earlier this month. While the current app focuses on basic savings, the anticipation surrounding the debit card launch is generating considerable interest.
According to the GXBank website, the GX Debit Card will be launched soon. The card features a sleek, minimalistic, modern design in renders. It is also being touted to provide users with unlimited 1% cashback on everyday transactions. That is on top of GXBank’s pledge to not markup on exchange rates and have transparent overseas transaction fees for the time being.
The GX Debit Card claims to be “the only cashback card with no limits,” offering 1% cashback across various spending categories. The promotion of an RM1 fee waiver at 10,000 MEPS ATMs nationwide adds to the card’s appeal. However, accessing the card presents a challenge as GXBank’s public beta is limited to 20,000 Malaysians.
Being a digital bank, GX Debit Card users can expect convenient card management through the app – which is not in beta. The app will allow users to self-serve features like freezing the card and customizing transaction preferences. That said, there doesn’t seem to be anything indicating support for popular digital wallets like Apple Pay, Google Pay, or Samsung Pay.
While the GX Debit Card offers enticing cashback benefits, it’s worth noting that there are fees which are currently being waived. According to the documentation available, this includes an RM12 card issuance fee and an RM1 transaction fee for MEPS ATM withdrawals. Additionally, there is a 1.2% administration fee for foreign currency transactions or overseas card use. There isn’t any word on when the fees will be enforced. However, the product information sheet points to the waivers only being until 31 December 2024.
Users interested in trying out the offering from GX Bank will need to register on the waitlist for the app and request the debit card from there. However, there is no word on how long this will take or if GXBank will be expanding the public beta currently underway with 20,000 participants.
Proton, a well-known Malaysian automaker, plans to revolutionise its in-car experience by trying to incorporate Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. ACO Tech, the company that created Proton’s ATLAS infotainment head unit (IHU), has announced it intends to provide these features to Proton vehicles.
Sunny Wang, Head of Project Management at ACO Tech, announced the plans to integrate the systems at a media preview of the new Proton S70 sedan. He stated that Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration is actively being worked on and that users will not have to wait long before they can mirror their smartphone screens on the ATLAS IHU. However, it is crucial to remember that the integration process entails more than just a simple software update. According to Proton’s Deputy CEO, Roslan Abdullah, changes to the IHU’s chipset are required to support Android Auto and CarPlay.
Source: ACO TECH
Roslan Abdullah also stated that the change and implementations must be on its hardware and not just software. This is due to the changes to the IHU’s chipset. Despite admitting the long-overdue nature of Android Auto and Apple CarPlay support, Roslan stated that the transition would be difficult due to the requirement for hardware modifications.
Furthermore, obtaining licences from Google and Apple is one of the most complex aspects of the process. Roslan stated that these conversations had been “a bit of a hassle”. This is mainly due to the complications caused by the geopolitical tensions and technological rivalry between the United States and China.
Sadly, as of now, neither Proton nor ACO Tech have specified a definite date for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay availability in Proton cars. While the next Proton S70, which will be on sale on November 28, will not include Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility, the confirmation of active development suggests that these features are on the way for Proton users.
As we wind down 2023, LG is throwing a grand finale promo with their Trio Bonanza Sale-Brations. Running nationwide until 31 December 2023, the Trio Bonanza Sale-Brations is offering rebate deals on selected LG products. Depending on what you buy, you can qualify for Touch ‘n Go e-wallet or S Pay Global credits rebates going as high as RM2,000.
You can get rebate offers across a huge range of LG’s line including their OLED TVs, sound bars, fridges, water purifiers, and more. If you get two or more selected LG products with a minimum value of RM4,000 in a single receipt, you can also enjoy an additional rebate of up to RM400.
Check out the full list of products on promotion along with details on how to redeem your rebates here.
GX Bank Berhad (GX Bank) is pushing boundaries as Malaysia’s first digital bank to go to market. The digital bank received approval to operate from Bank Negara Malaysia ahead of the April 2024 deadline. The bank focuses on serving the underserved through innovative channels, including a dedicated app and 24/7 customer support.
After its initial announcement back in September, GX Bank is already rolling out its official app in beta. The beta app is set to roll out to 20,000 Malaysians on November 14, 2023, following successful internal testing. GX Bank’s app is developed to be user-centric. The app comes with a user-friendly interface prioritizing trust and security. Chief Technology Officer Fadrizul Hasani emphasizes compliance with regulatory norms, ensuring user data and funds’ safety.
During beta-testing, users can create a GX Bank Savings Account and set up to 10 “Pockets” for specific savings goals. Money placed in these pockets will earn daily interest of up to 3%. Being the first digital bank to go to market, it may be daunting to be an early adopter. That said, deposits of up to RM250,000 in GX Bank are protected by Perbadanan Insurans Deposit Malaysia (PDIM). In addition, users are able to lock their accounts in case of fraud and limit daily spending. GX Bank is also offering exciting benefits including RM20 cashback with a minimum of RM100 deposit, withdrawal fee waivers, and unlimited cashback with the upcoming debit card feature.
Simple Onboarding Process
GX Bank promises a seamless onboarding experience. With a few taps, users can download the app, complete the eKYC process, upload their MyKad, and deposit a minimum of RM10 to start saving.
To set up your account, all you need to do is:
Download the app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store
Upload a digital copy of the national identity card (MyKad)
Complete the eKYC process as stated in the app
Add a minimum of RM10 into the savings account and set up Pockets (if you want to)
Existing Grab users can access the GX Bank app through the Grab App.
Sennheiser‘s ACCENTUM Wireless headphones are now available in Malaysia. The feature-rich headphones mark a new dawn for Sennheiser in Malaysia after the acquisition of Sennheiser’s commercial business by Sonova. The headphones are also the trailblazing product for a new partnership between Sonova and StreamCast Asia as the exclusive distributor of Sennheiser consumer audio products in Malaysia.
The ACCENTUM Wireless headphones are not just another pair of headphones; they promise to be the ultimate “Soundtrack to Your Life.” These headphones combine the legendary Sennheiser acoustics with the tranquillity of Hybrid Active noise-cancelling technology. Engineered with the discerning audiophile in mind, the ACCENTUM Wireless headphones feature 37mm dynamic transducers, meticulously tuned to provide exhilarating sound experiences. They deliver exceptional bass performance and striking clarity. The acoustics have been refined to offer broad-spectrum ANC performance, effectively reducing external disturbances through a combination of passive isolation and concealed microphones targeting both low and high frequencies.
Source: Sonnova Consumer Hearing
What truly sets these headphones apart is their remarkable battery life, offering an astounding 50 hours of playback time on a single charge. For those moments when time is of the essence, the “quick charge” feature provides an additional 5 hours of listening with just a 10-minute charge. Additionally, the included USB-C charging cable allows these wireless headphones to be used as wired ones when Bluetooth is not an option. This not only adds to their versatility but also contributes to reducing electronic waste, promoting sustainability.
The ACCENTUM Wireless headphones are not only about audio excellence; they are touted to excel in handling voice calls as well. With two built-in microphones and a dedicated wind-reduction mode, they ensure that voice calls are crisp and clear. Thanks to adjustable side tone and advanced signal processing, conversations remain natural and free from fatigue, effectively minimizing background distractions. The multipoint feature allows seamless switching between active wireless connections, making these headphones an ideal choice for individuals who frequently switch between VoIP calls on their computer and streaming a podcast on their mobile devices during meetings.
In terms of design and comfort, the ACCENTUM headphones have been thoughtfully designed to ensure extended wearing comfort. The earcup and headband padding contact points gently conform to the wearer’s shape, providing a secure and natural fit. This design reflects the compact fold-flat design of the MOMENTUM 4 Wireless, showcasing a cohesive and sophisticated look that places equal emphasis on sound and ergonomics.
Source: Sonnova Consumer Hearing
Staying in control of the ACCENTUM’s features is made intuitive with the simplified 4-button layout and the optional companion smartphone app. From managing Bluetooth connections and features to experimenting with the 5-band EQ, the Smart Control App enhances the headphone experience with a user-friendly interface that fits in your pocket. The Smart Control App can also store user presets and deliver updates, ensuring that the ACCENTUM headphones continue to operate smoothly as the devices they connect to evolve.
Pricing & Availability
The ACCENTUM Wireless headphones are available in two elegant colour options: black and white with sandstone accents. Both colours will be available for purchase from November onwards, and you can find them at the official Sennheiser website and all authorized Sennheiser resellers at an attractive price of RM999.
As Malaysia’s eWallet and digital payments landscape continues to become more competitive, eWallets like Touch ‘n Go Digital’s offering need to stand out from the noise. Touch ‘n Go eWallet is introducing GOrewards – and we don’t mean the Goal Hunter feature you’ve been interacting with and collecting – it’s a totally new feature that is going to quickly become your favourite.
GOrewards is Touch ‘n Go’s take on the rewards points collection programme. The new feature, which is now available on the app, will allow users to earn points as they spend with the Touch ‘n Go eWallet. I know what you’re thinking… “It’s just another points collection and redemption programme”… but that may not be the case with Touch ‘n Go’s extensive partnership with brands, service providers and retailers. In fact, GOrewards is launching with a select few partners with more due to join the program soon.
Chiew Wei Wing, Chief Product Officer for GOrewards at TNG Digital Sdn Bhd, briefing the media about GOrewards at the launch
At launch, Touch ‘n Go eWallet is bringing onboard partners like Tealive, ZUS Coffee, Kenny Rogers Roasters, Baskbear, 7-eleven, BHP, CTOS, Taco Bell, Watsons, AIA and CelcomDigi. These partners will be offering reward point bonuses for GOrewards for users who transact with the eWallet. These reward points are not limited to payment transactions on the app, users will also benefit from transacting and purchasing offers in the app. Oh… Did I mention that you’ll also be collecting points when you transact with Touch ‘n Go eWallet overseas via Alipay+ and also your Touch ‘n Go eWallet Visa Card?
Partner
Bonus
7-Eleven
2x
AIA
10x based on purchase value for Insure360
Baskbear
5x
BHP
2x
CelcomDigi
10x based on the purchase value for Insure360
CTOS
2x for purchases on TNG eWallet app only
Kenny Rogers Roasters
6x
Taco Bell
2x
Tealive
5x
Watsons
2x
ZUS Coffee
6x in November 2023; 3x after
The launch of GOrewards comes on the heels of a slew of announcements from TNG Digital including the recent launch of ASNB investments on the app and ParkInsure. However, it’s probably more notable that the announcement of GOrewards comes on the heels of consumers lamenting the shrinkage of other reward points programs from competing eWallets.
Source: Touch ‘N Go Digital
“As most industry players are scaling back their program, TNG Digital through Touch ‘n Go Wallet is introducing our first comprehensive loyalty program, GOrewards. With this, we want to not only be the safest and most convenient eWallet, but the most rewarding as well.”
Users who activate their GOrewards in the Touch ‘n Go eWallet will earn 1 point for every RM1 spent on or through the app and Visa debit card. These points will be valid for 6 months after earning and can be redeemed for a myriad of things including vouchers and even physical items from partners like PrestoMall. All you have to do to activate your GOrewards, you simply have to tap on the GOrewards tile on the homepage of the eWallet app.
RapidKL is finally launching and selling its My50 and MyCity passes making it easier for users to purchase the pass instantly without going through the hassle. The passes can be purchased through The MyRapid Pulse app, which is available on the Apple App Store, the Google Play Store, and the Huawei AppGallery. It is also available for purchase through the online MyRapid Shop. With this system in place, it allows commuters to buy these passes online instead of at customer service counters in RapidKL train stations and bus hubs.
Source: RapidKL/Prasarana
However, like many of its other “advancements”, the transition to an online system seems like two steps forward and a step back. As mentioned in its own FAQs, while the passes are being sold online, they will not be able to be activated on the MyKad or Touch ‘n Go card after the purchase. Instead, users must activate the pass at customer service counters at public transport stations like KL Sentral.
There is, however, a good reason why users must activate it at customer service counters. As of current My50 and MyCity passes are only available to Malaysians. That said, it doesn’t look like RapidKL has implemented a KYC (Know Your Client) protocol in place. Hence, proving nationality through the Pulse app or MyRapid Shop will be difficult. According to them, this is also due to the Touch n’ Go system that needs the passes to be physically activated.
That said, the new implementation is a step forward. However, it would be a big benefit to users if these passes are available via platforms like ewallets, Samsung Wallet, Apple Wallet and Google Wallet. Users will then be able to simply tap in or out with their cellphones. It is worth noting though, that, recently, Transport Minister Anthony Loke announced that RapidKL’s parent firm, Prasarana, is working on an open payment system for 2024. We’ll have to wait and see if the process changes when that is launched.
Hot off its international announcement, the Amazfit Active is making its way to Malaysia! But the smartwatch isn’t coming with its sibling the Amazfit Active Edge. Instead, the smartwatch is making a solo debut with the Edge hopefully coming soon.
The Smartwatch caters to the 21st-century woman who wants to lead an active and healthy lifestyle. The Amazfit Active is a versatile companion, whether you’re at work, hitting the gym, or enjoying some leisure time.
Source: Amazfit
What sets the Amazfit Active apart is its ability to blend the best features of the Amazfit GTS and Mini series into one stunning package. Users will undoubtedly appreciate the fusion of the high-end aesthetics from the Amazfit GTS with the ultra-lightweight and cost-effective design found in the Mini series. The result is a best-of-all-worlds smartwatch that’s not only fashionable but also dedicated to enhancing your overall wellness.
Key features of the Amazfit Active include its ultra-lightweight aluminium alloy and plastic design, a vibrant 1.75-inch HD AMOLED display, convenient Bluetooth calling, and music playback. For fitness enthusiasts and adventurers, it comes with Multi-Global Navigation Satellite System (Multi-GNSS) support, offering precise route navigation for activities like jogging, hiking, or any outdoor adventure. The smartwatch also features AI-powered Training Guidance by Zepp Coach, which leverages data such as 24-hour heart rate, SpO2 levels, and stress monitoring to create personalized exercise plans. One of the standout features of the Amazfit Active is its impressive battery life, offering up to 14 days of typical use on a single charge.
Source: Amazfit
In addition to its impressive array of features, the smartwatch also boasts over 100 customizable watch faces, 5ATM water resistance, music storage, PAI Health Assessment System, downloadable apps and games, and compatibility with the Zepp App, among others. This smartwatch is designed to bring organization to the chaos of modern life, helping you stay active and healthy.
For fitness enthusiasts, the Amazfit Active offers a remarkable 130+ sports modes, with the introduction of the Track Running feature that helps you maintain your pace and splits during your runs. With Zepp Coach, you’ll have a dedicated workout monitoring and analysis tool on your wrist, providing voice prompts during workouts and utilizing data to optimize future exercises for improved fitness.
Pricing & Availability
The Amazfit Active is available in two stylish colour options, Midnight Black and Petal Pink, priced at RM599.00.
Starting from November 3, 2023, the Amazfit Active is available for purchase on popular e-commerce platforms like Shopee, Lazada, and the TikTok Shop. Early adopters can also score a free Cross-body bag and a Celebrity Fitness 7-day Trial Pass, but act fast as these bonuses are available while stocks last.
