Category Archives: Lifestyle

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10Gbps Fibre Internet Is Now Offered by ViewQwest in Malaysia

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ViewQwest is upping the ante when it comes to fibre connectivity in Malaysia. Hot off the heels of the company’s launch of its 10Gbps network availability in Singapore, it is now bringing the same high-speed connectivity to Malaysia. The Singaporean ISP is beating local ISPs to the punch and opening the offering to the general public.

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The 10Gbps speed offering was launched at one of the first buildings fitted for the network in the heart of Kuala Lumpur – The Stride. The building is one of many sites that are 10Gbps ready. ViewQwest’s new 10Gbps offering will be running on ViewQwest’s own fibre backbone and will provide the speed on a best-effort basis.

That said, the package may not be offered to everyone as it will depend on fibre availability and the available backhaul fibre infrastructure. However, ViewQwest assures that the service will be available in the coming months as infrastructure is rolled out. The package will be offered at a starting price of RM1,800 a month. This pricing doesn’t include any one-time costs that may be incurred during the service installation. Subscription availability will be subject to a site visit. ViewQwest will also be providing WiFi 7 capable routers to fully leverage the speeds that the connection offers.

From left to right = Jurist Francisco Gamban, COO of ViewQwest, YB Gobind Singh Deo, Minister of Digital, Vignesa Moorthy, CEO, ViewQwest, and Christopher Ng, Country Head MY of ViewQwest.
(From left to right) Jurist Francisco Gamban, COO of ViewQwest, YB Gobind Singh Deo, Minister of Digital, Vignesa Moorthy, CEO, ViewQwest, and Christopher Ng, Country Head MY of ViewQwest.

ViewQwest showcased the connectivity at The Stride Strata Suites at a launch event graced by Minister of Digital, Yang Berhormat Tuan Gobind Singh Deo. To showcase the speeds, the company downloaded a 10GB file in about 45 seconds. This process would have taken about 35 minutes at the minimum with regular 1Gbps or 2Gbps connections that are top-of-the-line in Malaysia now. This would have taken at least an hour on regular 300Mbps and 500Mbps connections that are commonplace in Malaysia. The company also showcased downloading Civilization VI on Steam which took all of 30 seconds for the 24GB install.

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The company also did a speed test which showed off the high speeds of the 10Gbps connection. During the test, the network was able to hit about 9.5Gbps peak speeds but averaged about 8.7Gbps. The

Consumer Electronics, Lifestyle, News

Apple’s HomePod Mini Now Comes in a Striking Midnight Colourway

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Apple has expanded its popular HomePod mini lineup with the introduction of a stylish new colour option – Midnight. Joining the existing white, blue, yellow, and orange options, the Midnight HomePod mini offers a sleek and sophisticated aesthetic that seamlessly integrates into any home environment.

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Source: Apple

Despite the new colour, the core functionalities and design of the HomePod mini remain unchanged. This compact smart speaker continues to deliver impressive sound quality with its full-range driver, dual force-cancelling passive radiators, and Apple’s computational audio technology.

The HomePod mini thrives as the heart of your smart home, seamlessly connecting with your Apple devices to control a variety of accessories. Using intuitive voice commands via Siri, you can adjust lighting, control thermostats, manage smart plugs, and access a variety of other features.

Apple HomePod mini midnight
Source: Apple

Apple prioritizes user privacy and security within the HomePod mini. On-device intelligence ensures your requests are processed without sending information to the cloud unless explicitly requested. Additionally, features like personalized listening profiles and secure authentication further enhance user privacy.

The HomePod mini in Midnight doesn’t compromise on functionality. You can still utilize the intercom feature to broadcast announcements throughout your house, and pair two HomePod mini speakers for immersive stereo sound.

Pricing & Availability

The Apple HomePod mini in Midnight will be retailing for USD$99 internationally and for RM529 in Malaysia. It’s now available for order from Apple’s website and the Apple Store app While Apple hasn’t revealed the official pricing details for the Midnight HomePod mini in Malaysia, it is expected to be priced similarly to the existing colour options, which retail for RM99.

Health, Lifestyle, News

Unpacking the Galaxy Watch Ultra, Galaxy Watch7 & the Galaxy Buds3 series

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Samsung has just announced its new flagship wearables – expanding its Galaxy Watch series with the Galaxy Watch Ultra and revamping its Galaxy Buds series with the new Galaxy Buds3 and Galaxy Buds3 Pro. The new wearables are spearheaded by the Galaxy Ring. The new Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra takes the Galaxy Watch to new frontiers with a new, more rugged look with features to match.

It also spearheads the Galaxy AI revolution when it comes to wearables with more intelligent and accurate tracking even in the Galaxy Watch7. The Galaxy Buds3 Series debuts with an all new design focusing on self expression and comfort. With the Galaxy Buds3 Pro, Samsung is bringing an all new way to enjoy your music and at even higher quality.

Lifestyle, News

CMF by Nothing Unveils the Tech-Savvy Duo: Watch Pro 2 and Buds Pro 2

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CMF by Nothing, the brand known for its transparent tech aesthetic, is back with two exciting new additions to its lineup: the CMF Watch Pro 2 and the CMF Buds Pro 2. Taking inspiration from the success of their Phone 1 launch, these wearables offer a blend of high-tech features and sleek design, all at an attractive price point.

CMF Watch Pro 2

The CMF Watch Pro 2 is a stylish and versatile smartwatch designed for the active individual. At the forefront is its stunning 1.32-inch AMOLED display, boasting vibrant colours and exceptional clarity. Whether you’re checking notifications under the midday sun or glancing at your stats during a workout, the display delivers a crisp and responsive viewing experience.

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But the Watch Pro 2 is more than just a pretty face. Beneath the hood lies a powerful processor that seamlessly handles all your smartwatch needs. Track your daily activities with ease using the built-in 120 sports modes, ranging from running and cycling to swimming (thanks to its IP68 water resistance). Additionally, the watch continuously monitors your heart rate and blood oxygen levels, allowing you to stay informed about your overall health.

Speaking of health, the Watch Pro 2 boasts a comprehensive sleep-tracking feature that analyzes your sleep patterns and provides insights for better rest. It even incorporates a menstrual cycle tracker for female users.

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Battery life is another highlight of the Watch Pro 2. With typical usage, you can expect a full 11 days on a single charge, eliminating the need for daily charging hassles. For heavy users, the watch still offers a respectable 9 days of battery life, ensuring it can keep up with your active lifestyle.

Customization is key when it comes to wearables, and the Watch Pro 2 doesn’t disappoint. Choose from a variety of interchangeable bezels in Dark Grey, Ash Grey, Blue, and Orange to match your style. The watch also comes with a selection of pre-loaded watch faces and allows for custom watch face creation, letting you personalize your experience.

CMF Buds Pro 2

The CMF Buds Pro 2 are the perfect companions for on-the-go audio enjoyment. These wireless earbuds boast a sleek design that’s comfortable and secure for extended listening sessions.

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The star of the show is the Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) technology. By eliminating up to 50dB of unwanted ambient noise, the Buds Pro 2 let you truly immerse yourself in your music, podcasts, or audiobooks. This is particularly beneficial for blocking out distractions during commutes or workouts.

Audio quality is another strong suit of the Buds Pro 2. Equipped with dual drivers and advanced audio processing, the earbuds deliver crisp highs, rich mids, and deep bass, ensuring a well-balanced and immersive listening experience.

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Battery life is impressive too. The Buds Pro 2 deliver up to 7 hours of continuous playback with ANC enabled, and a whopping 29 hours with the charging case included. This translates to days of uninterrupted listening before needing to recharge.

For added convenience, the Buds Pro 2 integrate seamlessly with your smartphone. The earbuds feature intuitive touch controls for playback, volume adjustment, and voice assistant activation.

Pricing & Availability

The CMF Watch Pro 2 will be priced at USD$69 internationally and at RM339 in Malaysia. Its bezels and straps will be retailing at RM99 a set. The Watch Pro 2 comes in two colour options for the watch body (Dark Grey and Ash Grey) with interchangeable bezels available in Dark Grey, Ash Grey, Blue, and Orange.

The CMF Buds Pro 2 will be priced at USD$59 internationally and at RM299 in Malaysia. Buds Pro 2 continue this trend. The Buds Pro 2 are currently offered in Dark Grey, Light Grey, and Orange.

Both are expected to be available for purchase in Malaysia starting July 15th, 2024.

Lifestyle, News

Sony Announces the Reon Pocket 5 – A Personal Air Conditioner for Hot and Cold Days

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Sony has released the latest iteration of its innovative wearable thermo-device, the REON Pocket 5. This compact and convenient gadget promises to keep you cool during sweltering summer days or warm you up on chilly mornings.

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The REON Pocket 5 boasts a redesigned thermo-module and a new heat dissipation fan. This improved design translates to up to 1.5 times more cooling power compared to its predecessor. Users can choose from 5 COOL Levels for personalized comfort, with the battery lasting up to 1.8 times longer – reaching approximately 7.5 hours on COOL Level 4. Additionally, operation noise has been reduced by up to one-fifth, making the REON Pocket 5 ideal for discreet use in quiet environments.

Smart Temperature Control

Sony has further refined the REON Pocket’s temperature control system. The “SMART COOL ⇔ WARM MODE” automatically adjusts between cooling and warming based on the ambient temperature, ensuring year-round comfort.

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For improved cooling efficiency, the REON Pocket TAG (sold separately) features updated software that detects direct sunlight. This allows the REON Pocket 5 to adjust to preset temperatures 33% faster than previous models. With 8 built-in sensors, the REON Pocket 5 and REON Pocket TAG provide precise temperature control, offering up to 10 hours of use in “SMART COOL ⇔ WARM MODE”.

Stylish Design and Optional Accessories

The REON Pocket 5 comes with two air vent covers, catering to both business and casual attire. The business-style cover extends to the collar height for a seamless look, while the casual cover sits lower for a more relaxed aesthetic. Both covers ensure efficient airflow.

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An optional compact case is also available for purchase. This lightweight case provides excellent protection for the REON Pocket 5 and its accessories, allowing for convenient storage with the air vent cover attached.

Pricing & Availability

The REON Pocket 5 is now available in Malaysia for RM799. It comes in a single White colour option.

Lifestyle, News

Huawei FreeBuds 6i: Immersive Audio and Powerful Bass for On-the-Go Listening

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Huawei has unveiled the HUAWEI FreeBuds 6i, a true wireless earbuds designed for music lovers seeking an immersive audio experience with exceptional noise cancellation and powerful bass.

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The HUAWEI FreeBuds 6i boasts Intelligent Dynamic ANC 3.0, Huawei’s latest noise cancellation technology. This technology actively detects and cancels out ambient noise, ensuring an uninterrupted listening experience in various environments, from busy commutes to noisy workplaces.

The 11mm quad-magnet dynamic drivers, deliver rich and powerful bass ideal for bass-heavy music genres. This focus on bass is further complemented by Hi-Res Audio certification, ensuring clear and detailed sound across all frequencies.

The HUAWEI FreeBuds 6i earbuds offer up to 8 hours of continuous music playback on a single charge. With the charging case included, the total playtime extends to a remarkable 35 hours. Additionally, a quick 10-minute charge provides up to 4 hours of playtime, perfect for those who are always on the go.

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The FreeBuds 6i seamlessly connect to any device via Bluetooth 5.3 technology, ensuring a stable and reliable connection. The earbuds also feature intuitive touch controls for easy music playback management, volume adjustment, and call answering.

The buds come with three different sizes of ear tips for a customized and comfortable fit. The lightweight design ensures they stay securely in place during workouts or active commutes.

Pricing & Availability

The HUAWEI FreeBuds 6i are available for pre-order starting today until July 6, 2024, in Black and White colour variants. During this pre-order period, customers will receive complimentary gifts worth up to RM68. A special edition Purple colour variant is also coming soon to Huawei stores.

The HUAWEI FreeBuds 6i are priced competitively at RM399.

Lifestyle, News

AirPods Gets A Nod to More Natural Interactions and Enhancements

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Apple‘s AirPods have become a staple for many users, offering a convenient way to listen to music, take calls, and interact with Siri. This fall, an AirPods software update brings a range of enhancements focused on improving communication and interaction with your iPhone. The update was announced at Apple’s recent WWDC.

The upcoming update introduces Siri Interactions, a feature exclusive to AirPods Pro (2nd generation). With Siri Interactions activated, users can initiate interactions with Siri by simply nodding their heads for “yes” or shaking their heads for “no.” This intuitive approach eliminates the need to reach for your iPhone or use voice activation commands, offering a seamless and hands-free way to control various functions. Imagine adjusting music playback, making calls, or even getting directions while on the go, all with a simple head gesture.

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Source: Apple

For those who frequently use AirPods for calls, the update introduces Voice Isolation, a new feature available on AirPods Pro (2nd generation) and AirPods Max. Imagine taking a call in a bustling coffee shop or a crowded airport and having your voice clearly transmitted to the other caller, even amidst background noise. Voice Isolation utilizes advanced algorithms to distinguish your voice from surrounding noise, ensuring clear and uninterrupted communication. This feature caters to professionals who rely on AirPods for conference calls or anyone seeking a more focused calling experience in noisy environments.

Convenience is further enhanced with the introduction of press-to-mute functionality. This feature is available on AirPods (3rd generation), AirPods Pro (1st and 2nd generation), and AirPods Max. Imagine quickly muting your microphone during a call by simply squeezing the stem of your AirPods. This intuitive gesture allows for effortless control over audio during calls, eliminating the need to navigate through menus on your iPhone.

As mentioned earlier, the update is expected to arrive on the AirPods starting this fall.

Consumer Electronics, Entertainment, Lifestyle, News

tvOS 18 Brings New Experiences to Apple TV to Change the Way You’re Entertained

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Apple TV has become a central hub for many home entertainment setups, offering a convenient way to stream movies, shows, and music. This year’s tvOS 18 update promises to take your viewing experience to the next level with a focus on intelligent features, improved accessibility options, and a seamless connection with other Apple devices.

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InSight – Making that Rabbit Hole Easier to Dive In

Imagine getting more out of your favourite movies and shows than ever before. tvOS 18 introduces InSight, a groundbreaking feature that displays real-time information about the actors, characters, and music on screen. With a simple glance at your Apple TV remote or iPhone acting as a remote, InSight reveals details about the actors you see, allowing you to learn more about their filmography with a tap. Similarly, InSight can identify and display information about musical pieces playing in the background, enriching your understanding of the soundtrack that complements the visuals. This intelligent feature goes beyond passive viewing by offering a more interactive and informative experience.

Enhanced Dialogue

For those who struggle to hear dialogue amidst background noise or music, tvOS 18 offers a solution: Enhanced Dialogue. This feature utilizes machine learning and computational audio to isolate and amplify dialogue, making voices clearer and easier to understand. Imagine watching a movie with a complex plot or characters speaking in accents, and having the dialogue cut through any distracting background noise. Enhanced Dialogue is a boon for viewers with hearing impairments or those simply seeking a more focused listening experience. It’s important to note that while initially available on Apple TV 4K, Enhanced Dialogue is expected to be compatible with built-in TV speakers, HDMI-connected speakers, AirPods, and other Bluetooth-connected devices in the future, offering wider accessibility.

Screenshot 2024 06 12 at 00 33 11 Updates to the Home experience elevate entertainment and bring more convenience

Automatic Subtitles

Subtitles are a valuable tool for viewers who are deaf or hard of hearing, those learning a new language, or simply those who prefer to follow along with on-screen dialogue. tvOS 18 introduces automatic subtitles that appear seamlessly, ensuring viewers never miss a beat. Imagine watching a foreign film without needing to manually activate subtitles, or having subtitles automatically appear when the language in a show or film doesn’t match your device language. Additionally, tvOS 18 automatically displays subtitles when you mute your TV, ensuring a smooth viewing experience regardless of the audio setting. These automatic subtitle features enhance accessibility and cater to diverse viewing preferences.

Other Minor Enhancements

While InSight, Enhanced Dialogue, and automatic subtitles take centre stage in tvOS 18, there are additional refinements worth mentioning. For movie buffs seeking a more cinematic experience, tvOS 18 offers 21:9 support for playing movies and shows on projectors. Imagine enjoying a widescreen cinematic experience in the comfort of your home with compatible projectors. Additionally, tvOS 18 introduces a range of new screen savers, including options that showcase stunning portraits, iconic movie and TV show imagery, and even a delightful animation featuring Snoopy and Woodstock.

Business, Lifestyle, News

Apple’s Vision Pro Headset Available in New Regions Starting June 28

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Apple’s Vision Pro is expanding its reach beyond its initial launch markets. Announced at WWDC 2023, Vision Pro has captured the imagination of many with its promise of revolutionizing the way we interact with the digital world. Initially available only in the United States, the headset is now poised to reach a wider audience with pre-orders opening in a wave of new countries and regions.

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The Vision Pro blends seamlessly with the digital world, offering users a unique augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) experience. Imagine working on a complex design project with colleagues scattered across the globe, yet feeling virtually present in the same room through collaborative AR tools. It has also opened doors for immersive entertainment experiences, transporting users to fantastical virtual worlds or allowing them to enjoy a front-row seat at a concert from the comfort of their living room.

The announcement of the global expansion of the Vision Pro’s availability coincides with the unveiling of VisionOS 2, the headset’s latest operating system update. VisionOS 2 introduces a range of exciting features designed to enhance the user experience. One such feature is Spatial Photos, allowing users to transform their existing 2D photos into stunning 3D experiences. Imagine revisiting a cherished vacation by putting on your Vision Pro headset and stepping into a virtual recreation of a breathtaking landscape you captured with your phone.

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The pre-order schedule for Vision Pro in the new regions is staggered. China, Hong Kong, Japan, and Singapore will have the opportunity to pre-order the headset beginning June 13th, with wider availability starting June 28th. For users in Australia, Canada, France, Germany, and the United Kingdom, pre-orders open on June 28th with availability commencing July 12th. Pricing starts at USD$3,299 (approximately RM16,515.48).

Business, Lifestyle, News

Apple Vision Pro Getting More Features with VisionOS 2

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Many were quick to write off Apple’s Vision Pro headset after the initial rollout of the device. However, WWDC 2024 saw Apple bring even more features to the mixed-reality headset. Initially designed to revolutionize the way we interact with the digital world, the headset has revitalised interest in mixed- and augmented-reality headsets.

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This year’s VisionOS 2 update promises a range of enhancements focused on spatial experiences, improved user interaction, and deeper integration with Macs, solidifying Vision Pro’s position as a powerful tool for creativity, productivity, and entertainment.

VisionOS 2 introduces a groundbreaking feature known as Spatial Photos. Imagine transforming your existing 2D photos into stunning 3D experiences. Using advanced machine learning algorithms, VisionOS 2 analyzes depth and perspective within your photos, creating a sense of space and dimension. Imagine revisiting a cherished vacation by putting on your Vision Pro headset and stepping into a virtual recreation of a breathtaking landscape you captured with your phone. Spatial Photos breathe new life into your memories, allowing you to relive them in a more immersive and interactive way.

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VisionOS 2 also refines the gesture control system for navigating the virtual environment within your Vision Pro headset. Imagine using intuitive hand gestures to interact with applications and manipulate virtual objects. You could perform actions like swiping through menus, pinching to zoom in or out, and even grabbing and moving virtual objects with natural hand motions. This refined gesture control system promises a more intuitive and user-friendly experience within the virtual world.

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For those who rely on Vision Pro for productivity tasks, VisionOS 2 introduces a significant upgrade: the ultra-wide virtual Mac display. Imagine mirroring your Mac desktop onto a virtual screen within your Vision Pro headset that replicates the experience of working with two side-by-side 4K monitors. This expansive virtual display provides ample space for multitasking, allowing you to view and interact with multiple applications simultaneously. Additionally, VisionOS 2 offers support for a physical mouse for tasks that require greater precision, further streamlining your workflow within the virtual environment.

While Spatial Photos, improved hand gestures, and the ultra-wide virtual Mac display take centre stage in VisionOS 2, there are additional enhancements worth mentioning. The update introduces a redesigned home screen for a more intuitive and organized app layout within your Vision Pro. Additionally, developers gain access to a wider range of APIs and tools, empowering them to create even more immersive and interactive experiences for the Vision Pro platform.