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News

POCO Redefines Ultra Flagships with the New POCO F7 Series

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POCO, Xiaomi‘s sub-brand focused on gaming and performance, has unveiled its new flagship POCO F7 series. The launch event, held in Singapore, showcased the POCO F7 Ultra and the POCO F7 Pro, both meticulously designed to offer top-tier speed and efficiency. Staying true to POCO’s core mission, the F7 series is focused on making cutting-edge technology more accessible to a broader audience.

POCO F7 SERIES 14POCO F7 Ultra: Ultra Power Unleashed

The POCO F7 Ultra takes center stage, driven by the Snapdragon 8 Elite Mobile Platform, Qualcomm’s most advanced flagship chipset. This platform, forged with TSMC’s 3nm process technology, marks a significant leap in processing prowess, boasting a CPU performance surge of up to 45% and a GPU performance jump of up to 44%. It’s also engineered for power efficiency, curtailing peak power consumption by as much as 52% for the CPU and 46% for the GPU. The POCO F7 Ultra flexes its muscle with an impressive AnTuTu score of 2,843,461, underscoring its ability to handle resource-intensive tasks and multitasking effortlessly.

To further amplify the visual experience, the POCO F7 Ultra introduces POCO’s inaugural dedicated graphics chip, the VisionBoost D7 chipset. This chipset propels visual effects to new heights, featuring Smart Frame Rate for ultra-smooth 120FPS, 2K Super Resolution for enhanced clarity, and Game HDR for richer contrast. Moreover, the Dual-core Visuals technology elevates video playback on platforms like YouTube and Netflix, delivering superior clarity. The POCO F7 Ultra comes equipped with Xiaomi HyperOS 2 right out of the box, promising intelligent and responsive performance.

POCO F7 SERIES 34WildBoost Optimization 4.0 operates seamlessly in the background, coordinating the Snapdragon 8 Elite Mobile Platform and VisionBoost D7 chipset to ensure ultra-smooth gameplay, enhanced touch and track response, and precise game audio. The device is engineered to sustain superior performance even during demanding games like Genshin Impact at 2K Super Resolution and 120FPS, all while maintaining optimal temperatures.

POCO F7 Pro: High-Performance Powerhouse

The POCO F7 Pro is fueled by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset, striking a balance between speed and efficiency. It also operates on Xiaomi HyperOS 2, delivering swift and fluid performance across a variety of applications and games. The device registers an impressive AnTuTu score of 2,093,203.

WildBoost Optimization 4.0 elevates the gaming experience by providing smoother AI-driven performance, sharper visuals, immersive audio, and precise controls. It ensures ultra-smooth gameplay with Smart Frame Rate up to 120FPS, including Genshin Impact at 90FPS, and enhances resolution and clarity with 2K Super Resolution.

POCO F7 SERIES 33To effectively manage heat during intense workloads, both the POCO F7 Ultra and POCO F7 Pro incorporate LiquidCool Technology 4.0, featuring a 3D dual-channel IceLoop system. This advanced cooling solution significantly reduces SoC temperature, enabling sustained peak performance during extended gaming, video editing, and multitasking sessions.

Battery and Charging

In terms of battery capabilities, the POCO F7 Ultra houses a 5,300mAh (typ) battery, complemented by 120W HyperCharge for ultra-fast charging to 100% in just 34 minutes, and it also supports 50W wireless HyperCharge. The POCO F7 Pro comes with a 6,000mAh (typ) battery and supports 90W HyperCharge, achieving a full charge in 37 minutes. Both devices integrate next-generation charging technologies, including the POCO Surge P3 charging chipset and POCO Surge G1 battery chipset, to optimize charging speed and efficiency and extend battery lifespan. The battery is designed to retain above 80% of its original capacity even after 1,600 charging cycles.

Camera Capabilities

The POCO F7 Ultra boasts POCO’s most advanced imaging system to date, featuring a triple-lens setup. It includes a 50MP main camera with the Light Fusion 800 image sensor for vibrant and detailed shots, a flagship-level floating telephoto lens, and the highest-pixel ultra-wide camera in POCO’s lineup. The main camera offers four focal lengths, including 35mm for everyday candid shots and 48mm for classic portraits. The floating telephoto lens enables intricate 10cm macro shots, 2. 5X (60mm) optical zoom for vivid portraits, and 5X (120mm) in-sensor zoom for capturing distant scenes. The 32MP ultra-wide camera captures expansive landscapes and group shots with a 120-degree field of view.

POCO F7 SERIES 05The POCO F7 Pro also places a strong emphasis on powerful photography capabilities, featuring a 50MP main camera, similarly equipped with the Light Fusion 800 image sensor, and an 8MP ultra-wide camera. It leverages the POCO AISP platform and Xiaomi HyperAI tools to enhance image processing. The UltraSnap feature facilitates continuous snapshots of up to 150 frames, and the AI Creativity Assistant provides powerful editing tools. Both devices offer features like Dynamic Shots and AI enhancements for creative photo and video editing.

For selfies and video calls, the POCO F7 Ultra sports a 32MP front camera, while the POCO F7 Pro features a 20MP front camera.

Display and Design

Both the POCO F7 Ultra and POCO F7 Pro are designed with ultra-slim bezels and advanced eye-care technology. The displays boast 3200 nits peak brightness and 1800 nits HBM brightness for vibrant clarity, even in bright sunlight. They also incorporate Circular Polarization Technology, 3840Hz high-frequency PWM dimming, and 16,000-level auto brightness adjustment for comfortable viewing. These devices have TÜV Rheinland Low Blue Light (Hardware Solution) Certification, TÜV Rheinland Flicker Free Certification, and TÜV Rheinland Circadian Friendly Certification to minimize eye strain.

The display design includes AI-enhanced touch responsiveness for smooth interaction, even with wet fingers, oil, or gloves. POCO introduces an ultrasonic fingerprint sensor for the first time in these devices, providing fast and secure unlocking.

In terms of overall design, the POCO F7 Ultra and POCO F7 Pro blend aesthetics and durability. They feature a glass back cover with advanced gloss-matte craftsmanship, with the upper half in a glossy texture and the lower half in a matte finish. The POCO F7 Ultra has a quad-curved glass design for enhanced ergonomics, and both phones have a seamless top design flowing into a metal middle frame. They also feature a circular segmentation design and an aerospace-grade aluminum deco ring around the camera.

Durability is a key consideration, with both devices achieving an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance. The POCO F7 Ultra uses POCO Shield Glass for tougher screen protection, while the POCO F7 Pro uses Corning Gorilla Glass 7i for reinforced durability.

Enhanced Connectivity and Audio

To further enhance the user experience, the POCO F7 series is equipped with the Surge T1S tuner, a dedicated signal enhancement chipset. This technology significantly improves connectivity, boosting cellular performance by up to 37% in mid-high frequencies and enhancing Wi-Fi and Bluetooth performance by up to 16%. The devices also feature stereo dual speakers and AI Super Cinema for immersive audio and visuals.

Pricing & Availability

The POCO F7 series is now available in Malaysia.

The POCO F7 Ultra will be available in Yellow and Black. It will come with up to 16GB of RAM and 512GB of memory. The 12GB+256GB version will be retailing for RM2,999 while the 16GB+512GB version will be retailing for RM3,299. The phone will be available for RM2,699 for the 12GB+256GB while the 16GB+512GB version will be available for RM2,899 during the open sales promo period. Both will come with a free Xiaomi 50W Wireless Charging Stand worth RM229.

The POCO F7 Pro, on the other hand, will be available in Black, Silver, and Blue. It will be available with 12GB RAM and either 256GB or 512GB of memory. It will be retailing for RM2,299 for the 12GB +256GB version and RM2,499 for the 12GB+512GB. During the open sales promo period it will be availble for RM2,039 for the 12GB+256GB and RM2,139 for the 12GB+512GB version.

Special Offers:

  • Every purchase of POCO F7 Ultra includes 1 free screen replacement within 6 months, 2-year warranty, and Google One 6 months with 100GB cloud storage plan.
  • Every purchase of POCO F7 Pro includes 1 free screen replacement within 6 months and a 2-year warranty.
News

EPSON M2050 Monochrome Printer Review: Monochromic Efficiency

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In today’s dynamic environment, whether you’re navigating the demands of a burgeoning small business or tackling a heavy academic workload, a dependable and efficient printer remains a vital tool. The EPSON M2050 Monochrome Printer steps into this space, specifically engineered for users who prioritize affordability, precision in text output, and long-term durability. Let’s dissect its features, build quality, printing prowess, software integration, and the crucial aspect of overall cost to understand its true impact on the day-to-day user experience.

Design & Build Quality: Form Follows Function
The EPSON M2050 presents a practical and space-conscious design, making it a suitable addition to both compact home offices and more expansive workspaces. Its dimensions, clocking in at 37.5 cm (width) x 34.7 cm (depth) x 30.2 cm (height), ensure a minimal footprint on your desk. While the aesthetic leans towards a professional, no-nonsense appearance, the robust construction immediately instills confidence in its longevity.

The choice of a matte finish across the chassis is a thoughtful one, effectively resisting the accumulation of dust and fingerprints that can plague glossier devices. Operation is facilitated by a straightforward control panel, featuring a clear 1.44-inch monochrome LCD display and tactile physical buttons. This design choice ensures ease of use for individuals with varying levels of technical familiarity. The implementation of a front-loading ink tank system is a significant plus, offering uncomplicated access for refills, a process EPSON has streamlined to minimize mess. Furthermore, the front access also simplifies the often-frustrating task of resolving paper jams. Overall, the design ethos here is clearly centered on practicality and ease of maintenance, key considerations for any high-usage environment.

Features: Productivity and Cost-Efficiency at its Core
The EPSON M2050 is packed with features designed to enhance productivity and drive down operational costs. Let’s delve into the specifics:

Monochrome Inkjet Technology with PrecisionCore Printhead: At its heart, the M2050 utilizes EPSON’s renowned PrecisionCore printhead technology. This inkjet system is engineered to deliver laser-like print quality for text documents, producing sharp and well-defined characters. While its monochrome capability means it’s not suited for color graphics or photos, this focus allows it to excel in its primary function: producing high-quality text.
Integrated Ink Tank System: This is a standout feature, replacing traditional cartridges with refillable ink tanks. The initial ink bottles provided offer a substantial yield, significantly reducing the frequency of replacements and the associated costs. This design directly addresses the needs of high-volume users seeking an economical printing solution.
High Print Speed: The M2050 boasts a print speed of up to 18 images per minute (ipm). This ensures that large documents and multiple print jobs are handled efficiently, minimizing downtime and maximizing productivity, especially in busy office environments.
Automatic Duplex Printing: The inclusion of automatic two-sided printing is a valuable asset for both saving paper and creating professional-looking documents. While the duplex speed is naturally a bit lower than single-sided printing, the convenience and cost savings it offers are significant.
Water-Resistant Pigment Ink: The use of pigment-based ink is a crucial detail. Unlike dye-based inks, pigment inks offer superior resistance to water and smudging. This ensures the longevity and legibility of printed documents, making them suitable for archival purposes and environments where accidental spills might occur.
Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi Direct Connectivity: The M2050 offers flexible connectivity options. Standard Wi-Fi allows seamless integration into existing network infrastructures, enabling printing from multiple devices. Wi-Fi Direct provides a direct connection between the printer and a smartphone or tablet without the need for a router, offering added convenience for on-the-go printing.
Epson Smart Panel App Integration: This mobile application extends the printer’s functionality, allowing users to initiate print and scan jobs directly from their smartphones or tablets. The app also provides real-time status updates on ink levels and facilitates basic maintenance tasks, enhancing user convenience and control.
Energy-Efficient Heat-Free Technology: EPSON’s Heat-Free Technology is a notable inclusion. By eliminating the need for heat in the printing process, the M2050 consumes significantly less power compared to traditional laser printers. This not only translates to lower electricity bills but also contributes to a more environmentally conscious operation.
While the lack of color printing might be a limitation for some users, the M2050’s feature set is laser-focused on delivering efficient, high-quality monochrome output with a strong emphasis on cost savings and user convenience.

Print Quality & Speed: Performance Where It Counts
In terms of output, the EPSON M2050 consistently delivers sharp and clear monochrome prints. Text appears crisp and well-defined, even at smaller font sizes, making it ideal for detailed documents, reports, and academic papers. The advertised print speed of 18 ipm holds up well in practical use, allowing for swift completion of large print jobs. The automatic duplex printing function operates smoothly, efficiently producing double-sided documents with minimal user intervention.

While it’s important to reiterate that the M2050 is not designed for photo or color printing, it excels in its intended domain. The combination of the PrecisionCore printhead and the pigment-based ink results in durable, smudge-free text documents that maintain their legibility over time. This makes it a reliable workhorse for tasks where clarity and longevity are paramount.

Total Cost of Ownership and Other Features: The Bottom Line
One of the most compelling aspects of the EPSON M2050 is its remarkably low total cost of ownership. The individual ink bottles, typically priced around $15 each, offer an impressive yield of approximately 6,000 pages per bottle. This translates to a significantly lower cost per page compared to traditional toner cartridges used in laser printers. This economic advantage makes the M2050 a particularly attractive option for users with high printing volumes.

Furthermore, the energy-efficient Heat-Free Technology contributes to lower operational costs by reducing electricity consumption. Over the lifespan of the printer, these savings can be substantial.

The integration with the Epson Smart Panel app further enhances the user experience by providing a convenient interface for managing printing and maintenance tasks directly from mobile devices. The inclusion of both standard Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi Direct offers versatile connectivity options, ensuring seamless integration into various network environments and easy direct printing from mobile devices.

Conclusion: A Focused Solution for Efficient Monochrome Printing
For users whose primary printing needs revolve around high-quality monochrome documents and who prioritize efficiency and cost savings, the EPSON M2050 Monochrome Printer emerges as a strong contender. Its robust build quality, eco-friendly and economical ink tank system, and precision-focused performance make it an ideal choice for small businesses, home offices, and students with substantial printing demands. However, it’s crucial to acknowledge that if color printing or high-resolution photo printing are essential requirements, the M2050 will not meet those needs.

Ultimately, the EPSON M2050 strikes a compelling balance between affordability, ease of use, and exceptional monochrome performance. It proves that in an increasingly digital world, a reliable and cost-effective monochrome printer still holds significant value for specific user needs.

Android, Mobile, News

Honor’s Alpha Plan Includes 7-year Software Support Putting It Ahead of Other Chinese Manufacturers

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For years, the Android ecosystem has grappled with the issue of short-lived software support, leaving users with devices that quickly become outdated, both in terms of features and security. While Apple has consistently provided lengthy software updates for its iPhones, Android manufacturers have struggled to match this commitment. This disparity has not only fueled concerns about e-waste but also raised questions about the long-term value of Android devices.

HONOR Launched HONOR ALPHA PLAN at Barcelona, Spain on 2 March 2025
Source: Honor / The Launch of the Honor Alpha Plan at MWC 2025 in Barcelona

In this context, Honor’s recent announcement of a 7-year software support pledge for its Magic series marks a watershed moment. It’s a clear signal that the company is taking software longevity seriously, aligning itself with the likes of Google and Samsung. This move is not just about keeping devices running; it’s about providing users with a sense of security and a long-term investment.

Honor’s commitment to 7 years of OS and security updates effectively puts them on par with the industry leaders, signalling a shift towards a more sustainable and user-friendly approach. The timing of this announcement is particularly noteworthy. With consumers increasingly holding onto their devices for longer periods, the demand for extended software support has grown. Honor’s move addresses this demand, positioning the Magic series as a viable long-term investment. This is a crucial differentiator in a market saturated with options, allowing Honor to carve out a niche for itself among users who prioritize longevity and security.

It’s important to note that Honor has now joined the ranks of Google and Samsung in offering 7-year support, putting the company ahead of other Chinese manufacturers, who typically cap out at around four years of updates. This puts Honor in a unique position, bridging the gap between the extended support offered by industry giants and the shorter timelines of its domestic competitors.

The Alpha Plan – An Investment in Developing AI Holistically

But the 7-year support is just one piece of the puzzle. Honor’s Alpha Plan, a comprehensive AI strategy, further underscores the company’s commitment to innovation.4 The $10 billion investment in global AI development signals Honor’s ambition to become a leader in the AI-powered smartphone space. The Alpha Plan aims to integrate AI seamlessly into the user experience, enhancing everything from camera performance to productivity tools.5 This strategic focus on AI aligns with the broader industry trend, as manufacturers race to develop intelligent features that anticipate user needs.

HONOR CEO, James Li
Source: Honor / CEO, James Li, delivering the announcement of Honor’s AIpha Plan

The Alpha Plan is not merely about adding gimmicky AI features. It’s about creating a holistic AI ecosystem that enhances the functionality of Honor devices. This includes advancements in on-device AI processing, allowing for faster and more efficient execution of AI tasks. The company’s focus on privacy and security is also evident, with a commitment to ensuring that AI processing is handled responsibly.

Honor’s aggressive push into AI and software support is a clear indication of its intent to compete with the established players in the Android market. By addressing the long-standing issue of software longevity and embracing the transformative potential of AI, Honor is positioning itself as a forward-thinking and user-centric brand.

In the past, one of the main criticisms levelled at Honor, and other Chinese manufacturers like Oppo, Vivo, and Xiaomi, was the relatively short period of software support. This has caused some to be wary of investing in those devices. Now, Honor has finally addressed this issue, which is a huge win for them.

Consumer Electronics, News

Midea Launches New Appliances Built for Smart Homes in Malaysia

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Midea is looking to complete smart homes with its new 2025/2026 lineup of appliances. The new lineup not only prioritises ease of use, accessibility and features, but Midea is shifting its focus to create appliances geared towards a sustainable, efficient home.

Energy Efficiency & Smart Integration Takes Centre Stage

Midea’s appliances are taking cues from consumers who are dealing with unprecedented levels of inflation. As such, Midea’s new approach keeps power efficiency and emphasizes automation and ease of use through its smart home application. Midea has developed a range of air conditioners and refrigerators that are SEDA (Sustainable Energy Development Authority) certified, with many models achieving 4-star ratings or higher. The company has also observed a significant increase in the adoption of inverter air-conditioners that champion energy savings and sustainability.

Midea 2025 Launch 54

Of course, the latest range of smart home appliances incorporates AI-powered capabilities and modern designs. These appliances are equipped with RFID and Wi-Fi, allowing users to control them remotely through the SmartHome app. This integration looks to create a more intuitive and connected home environment, enabling users to manage their appliances from anywhere, at any time.

Expanding & Upgrading for the Future of Home Tech

Midea has been steadily strengthening its position in the Malaysian market, driven by the growing demand for energy-efficient and smart home solutions. The company’s air-conditioner segment has seen impressive year-on-year growth exceeding 30%, contributing to a 20% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) over the past five years. Midea Malaysia aims to achieve RM1 billion in annual sales in 2025, projecting double-digit growth. The company plans to leverage its extensive nationwide dealer network and expand its Midea Brand Stores to reach this goal.

Midea 2025 Launch 24

To further enhance customer experience, Midea plans to upgrade over 50 of its brand stores nationwide over the next two years. The company is also focused on creating sales terminals equipped with professional technical support and consultation services, demonstrating its commitment to customer satisfaction.

New Smart and Efficient Cooking Solutions

Midea’s new kitchen appliances aim to simplify cooking and enhance the culinary experience with smart features and innovative designs.

Midea 2025 Launch 25

The All-in-One Microwave Oven MMO-25XHA combines steam, grill, air-fry, and convection functionalities, offering a variety of cooking options. It features Inverter Quattro technology for precise power control, XpressSteam for maintaining food moisture and nutrients, and XpressFry for crispy air-fried results.

The L-Shaped Kitchen Hood MCH-90XS388(RFID) features a powerful brushless DC motor, self-cleaning steam wash, and smart home integration for convenient control. The Gas Hob MGH-80Z3GL offers an ultra-thin design, easy installation, and various safety features.

Smarter Appliances for Peace of Mind

Midea’s smart appliances aim to simplify home management and create a more connected living environment. The Midea V12 Robotic Vacuum Cleaner and the 3-in-1 Floorwasher MVC-GX5 PRO are prime examples, offering automated cleaning solutions that reduce the need for manual intervention.

Midea 2025 Launch 01

The Midea V12 Robotic Vacuum Cleaner offers an all-in-one station that automatically handles dust collection, mop washing, and mop drying. This hands-free approach simplifies maintenance and ensures hygienic cleaning. With 5000Pa suction power, the V12 effectively captures dirt, debris, and pet hair from various surfaces. Upgraded navigation algorithms and dynamic obstacle avoidance ensure efficient cleaning. Additional features include ultrasonic carpet detection, customizable no-go zones, and multi-floor map storage.

Midea 2025 Launch 03

The 3-in-1 Floorwasher MVC-GX5 PRO is a versatile floorwasher that combines vacuuming and mopping in one step, featuring dual-sided edge cleaning, self-cleaning and self-drying functions, and electrolyzed water for enhanced sanitization.

Midea 2025 Launch 41

These appliances can be controlled and monitored remotely through the Midea SmartHome app, providing users with greater flexibility and convenience. The app also allows for integration with other smart home devices, creating a cohesive ecosystem that can be managed from a central hub.

Washers, Dryers and Air Conditioners for the Smart Home

Midea’s new Front Load Washer Dryer MF310D Series combines washing and drying functionalities in a single unit, offering space-saving convenience. The TurboFoam+ technology enhances cleaning efficiency, while HealthGuard provides sanitization capabilities. The Auto Dose feature automates detergent dispensing, and SmartHome integration allows for remote control and monitoring.

Midea 2025 Launch 18

Midea continues its focus on energy-efficient air conditioners with its latest models. These air conditioners utilize inverter technology to optimize energy consumption while providing effective cooling. The company also highlights the durability and reliability of its air conditioners, incorporating features like Prime Guard technology for enhanced corrosion resistance and extended lifespan.

Pricing & Availability

Specific pricing and availability details for the new Midea products were not available at the time of writing.

However, Midea is currently running a Hari Raya promotion, offering Touch ‘n Go rebates worth up to RM500 beginning March 16, 2025.

News

Synology Active Protect Now Available in Malaysia

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The digital world is a wild place these days, with cyber threats lurking around every corner. Ransomware attacks are on the rise, data breaches are becoming more common, and businesses are scrambling to protect their precious digital assets. Synology is looking to help businesses navigate this minefield with its new offering: Active Protect Appliances. This isn’t just another backup solution; it’s a comprehensive data protection system designed with Synology’s extensive insights and experience to simplify backup and recovery while bolstering business resilience in dealing with cyberattacks.

Synology Active Protect 5
Synology’s Active Protect Hardware Showcased beside the Online Management Dashboard at the Launch

Businesses Need to Deal with an Ever-evolving Threat Landscape

Before diving into Active Protect’s specifics, let’s paint a picture of the current cybersecurity landscape. Ransomware attacks are becoming increasingly sophisticated and damaging. In 2023 alone, Malaysia saw several high-profile incidents affecting both government agencies and large enterprises. Compliance requirements, like the Personal Data Protection Act (PDPA), are also becoming more stringent, adding another layer of complexity for businesses. Recent reports from industry experts like PwC and the Information Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA) highlight the growing frequency and severity of cyberattacks. Phishing scams are evolving into more complex schemes like Ransomware-as-a-Service (RaaS), and businesses, especially small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), are often prime targets.

Synology Active Protect Provides A Multi-Faceted Approach to Data Security

Synology Active Protect 4
Synology Active Protect 1
Synology Active Protect 2
Synology Active Protect 3

Synology Active Protect Appliances aims to address these challenges head-on. They offer a comprehensive suite of features designed to protect your data and ensure business continuity in the face of cyber threats. Here’s a breakdown of what makes Active Protect stand out:

  • Unified Backup & Recovery: Forget juggling multiple software and hardware components. Active Protect integrates backup, recovery, and data management into a single appliance, simplifying your data protection strategy.
  • Broad Workload Support: Whether you’re dealing with PCs, Macs, file servers, databases, virtual machines, or even Microsoft 365 services, Active Protect has you covered. It provides centralized protection for a wide range of workloads, streamlining your data management.
  • Enterprise-Grade Management: The ActiveProtect Manager (APM) console gives you a bird’s-eye view of your data protection landscape. You can monitor up to 150,000 workloads or 2,500 sites from a single interface, providing comprehensive visibility and control.
  • Advanced Cybersecurity Features: Active Protect incorporates features like immutable backups, which can’t be altered or deleted by ransomware, ensuring data integrity. Air-gap security further enhances protection by isolating backup data from the network, creating an additional barrier against attacks. The system also adheres to regulatory compliance requirements, helping businesses meet their legal obligations.
  • Optimized Efficiency and Cost Savings: Active Protect utilizes global source-side deduplication, a fancy way of saying it eliminates redundant data. This reduces network load by up to 99% and storage needs by 50%, resulting in significant cost savings and improved efficiency.

Addressing Malaysia’s Specific Needs

Synology Active Protect 6
(From left) Antoine Yang, Country Manager, Synology Singapore; Thachawan Chincanakarn, ASEAN Regional Manager, Synology APAC; and Jason Sin, Country Manager, Synology Singapore at the SEA launch of Synology ActiveProtect Appliance.

Synology recognizes the unique challenges faced by businesses in Malaysia, particularly SMEs. With reports highlighting the vulnerability of SMEs and national infrastructure to cyberattacks, the need for robust data protection solutions is more critical than ever. Active Protect is designed to be scalable, secure, and user-friendly, making it an attractive option for Malaysian businesses of all sizes.

Pricing & Availability

Active Protect is now available in Malaysia through Synology’s distributors and partner network. Businesses can request a live demo or learn more about the solution by visiting the official Synology website.

Lifestyle, Mobile, News

Huawei Refreshes The MatePad Pro 13.2 for A More Productive 2025

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Huawei has refreshed its flagship tablet with a brand new take on the MatePad Pro 13.2. The new tablet continues to push Huawei’s narrative of its tablets being powerful enough to replace laptops. It claims to deliver a powerful and efficient mobile productivity experience, combining advanced hardware, professional-grade software, and enhanced multitasking capabilities.

MatePad Pro 13.2 2025 11

The new MatePad Pro 13.2 brings with it an improved advanced heat dissipation system that helps the processor hit higher performance levels by keeping it cool. Huawei is claiming a 30% increase in performance simply with this new technology. In addition, the tablet is able to perform in its turbo-clocked state 85% longer compared to last year’s version with load temperatures up to 10°C lower.

According to the Huawei website, the new tablet runs on the Kirin T92 Octacore processor. The processor is bringing significant performance boosts year on year for the tablet. The new MatePad Pro 13.2 is also able to handle big files without breaking a sweat. This is likely due to the storage chip being used by Huawei in the tablet. Speaking of, the tablet comes in 256GB or 512GB storage configurations with 12GB of RAM.

MatePad Pro 13.2 2025 03

Powering the new edition of the MatePad Pro 13.2 is a 10,100 mAh battery that is able to provide all-day productivity. This should be about 10 to 13 hours of battery life depending on the type of work being done. Huawei is also equipping the tablet with SuperCharge Turbo which allows you to get 80% charge in a mere 40 minutes and a full charge in about 65 minutes.

Huawei is also pushing its “laptop-like” experience with the new MatePad Pro 13.2. It comes preloaded with the WPS Office Suite and supports seamless multi-window operations. It also goes a step further with a full keyboard and mouse integration with its flip cover (this comes in the box for Malaysians!). Huawei claims that these features make it a slimmer, more portable alternative to a laptop.

MatePad Pro 13.2 2025 10

The HUAWEI Smart Magnetic Keyboard further enhances productivity by providing a comfortable typing experience with 1.5mm key travel, six-row keys, and a large, responsive touchpad. It even supports handwriting with the HUAWEI M-Pencil (3rd Gen) offers 16,384 pressure sensitivity levels, making it suitable for sketching, note-taking, and annotating documents. Huawei is also bringing AI features to the tablet. The Note Replay feature synchronizes handwritten notes with audio recordings in real-time, ensuring that users don’t miss important details during meetings or lectures.

The MatePad Pro 13.2 measures just 5.5mm thin and weighs 580g. This makes it Huawei’s thinnest and lightest MatePad to date, easily fitting into bags and backpacks. It’s also one of the strongest coming with a Nickel titanium frame and IP57 dust and water resistance. The tablet features an elegant Premium Gold rear cover inspired by Chinese silk.

MatePad Pro 13.2 2025 08
MatePad Pro 13.2 2025 04

The 13.2-inch Flexible OLED PaperMatte Display offers a large canvas for work and entertainment. The tandem OLED display – a first for the MatePad Lineup – offers a peak brightness of 1000 nits remaining visible even in bright environments. The display boasts a 94% screen-to-body ratio with minimal bezels for a more immersive viewing experience. Anti-glare nano-level etching technology reduces reflections, improving visibility and reducing eye strain.

Pricing & availability

The Huawei MatePad Pro 13.2 is priced at RM4,999 in Malaysia for the 512GB version. It’s available for pre-order until March 14, 2025.

Pre-orders come with exclusive gifts worth up to RM2,744, including a Huawei Smart Magnetic Keyboard, Huawei M-Pencil (3rd Gen), Huawei Mouse, Soundjoy, Huawei Backpack, and PC Level WPS. Pre-orders on Shopee and Lazada come with an RM200 Early Bird Voucher, while those who shop in-store at Huawei Experience Stores will receive a printer worth RM249, making it the perfect time to upgrade your workflow and creativity.

Internationally, the MatePad Pro 13.2 is priced starting at €1049.

Health, Lifestyle, News

Huawei Expands Wearable Line Up with FreeArc and Band 10

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Huawei has unveiled two new additions to its wearable lineup, but this time, they’re flipping the script. Leading the charge is the HUAWEI FreeArc, the company’s first foray into open-ear earbuds with ear hooks. These earbuds are designed to provide maximum comfort and stability, ensuring a secure fit even during vigorous physical activities. Following closely behind is the HUAWEI Band 10, a fitness tracker that prioritizes sleep and emotional well-being, providing valuable insights into these crucial aspects of health.

HUAWEI FreeArc: Open-Ear Comfort and Performance

The Huawei FreeArc earphones mark Huawei’s second departure from traditional in-ear designs, opting for an open-ear approach with ear hooks. This design choice aims to provide a more comfortable and secure fit, especially during workouts and other physical activities. The IP57 water-resistance rating makes them suitable for use in various environments, even during rainy conditions.

Huawei FreeArc 20

Huawei’s research into ergonomics led to the development of the HUAWEI FreeArc’s design. The Comfort Droplet, Acoustic Bean, and C-bridge components work together to provide a secure and comfortable fit. The C-bridge, made from a nickel-titanium shape memory alloy, accommodates various ear shapes. The earbuds are also covered in soft, skin-friendly liquid silicone for added comfort and breathability.

The Huawei FreeArc earphones prioritize clear audio and stable connections. The dual-mic setup enhances sound pickup, while triple-call noise cancellation aims to block ambient noise during calls. The earphones also maintain stable connections over long distances, ensuring uninterrupted performance in various environments.

Huawei FreeArc 11

HUAWEI FreeArc delivers high-quality audio with a 17 x 12 mm high-sensitivity driver unit, a symmetrical acoustic structure, a dynamic bass algorithm, and an Adaptive Equal-loudness Algorithm. These features work together to provide punchy bass and detailed audio. The Reverse Sound Waves System directs sound into the ear canal, enhancing clarity and privacy.

HUAWEI Band 10 Brings New Features in a Sleek Form Factor

The Huawei Band 10 builds upon Huawei’s expertise in wearable technology, offering a blend of advanced health and fitness tracking capabilities in a slim and stylish design. It prioritizes sleep and emotional well-being, providing users with valuable insights into these crucial aspects of their health.

It incorporates Enhanced Sleep Health Management, a feature designed to analyze sleep patterns and provide personalized insights, recommendations, and detailed summaries to improve sleep quality. This feature goes beyond basic sleep tracking by actively assisting users in understanding and addressing potential sleep-related issues.

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The Huawei Band 10 also introduces an Emotional Well-being Assistant. This feature monitors physiological changes throughout the day to provide insights into the user’s emotional state. The interactive Pet Panda watch face, initially introduced in the HUAWEI Watch GT5, visually represents the user’s mood with various animations.

It also features a refined design with an ultra-slim aluminium alloy case and a polished finish. The soft, skin-friendly fluoroelastomer straps ensure comfortable all-day wear. The quick-disconnect technology allows for easy customization with interchangeable straps. The aluminium alloy case is available in Matte Black, White, Blue, Green, and Purple, while the durable polymer case comes in Black and Pink.

The Huawei Band 10 also incorporates AI-powered fitness tracking features, including precise swimming stroke identification and indoor running optimization. The nine-axis sensor enhances workout accuracy, providing detailed performance insights to help users improve their training. With 50m water resistance, the Band 10 is suitable for various activities, both in and out of the water.

Pricing & Availability

  • HUAWEI FreeArc: Priced at RM599. Available in Black, Grey, and Green. Pre-order from now until March 24 to enjoy exclusive pre-order benefits worth RM327, including the HUAWEI Band 8, 1+1 Year Warranty, and 2-Year Loss Care.
  • HUAWEI Band 10: Priced at RM199. Available for pre-order starting today until 24 March 2025.
Mobile, News

Huawei Mate XT Brings New Meaning to Bending Expectations with TriFold Design

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Huawei is once again pushing the boundaries of smartphone design with the launch of the Huawei Mate XT Ultimate Design. The new foldable is also making a tenable mark as the world’s first commercially available tri-foldable smartphone. It’s also showing off Huawei’s design prowess with a slim profile and enhanced resilience and durability.

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The Mate XT Ultimate Design carries forward Huawei’s signature Star diamond design, featuring a shimmering surface created through a precise cutting process. The design features smooth, flowing curves along the edges and a distinctive, eye-catching aesthetic. Huawei has been on a mission to seamlessly blend craftsmanship with technology with its recent releases.

The advanced hinge system in the Mate XT utilizes two tracks working in tandem to support both inward and outward folds providing flexibility. Huawei has refined its hinge design to feature enhanced durability without sacrificing flexibility. The ultra-light and streamlined hinges are precisely calibrated to ensure a smooth and fluid folding motion, enhancing the overall user experience. The flexible display material bends seamlessly in either direction, resisting compression when folded inward and tension when folded outward.

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The hinge gives the Huawei Mate XT Ultimate Design a uniquely versatile user experience. It has the ability to switch between single, dual, and triple-screen modes. This essentially brings three different use modes to the smartphone. Users can use it in smartphone mode which has a 6.41-inch display, wide mode which features a larger 7.93-inch display more akin to a book-style foldable and tablet mode which features the large 10.2-inch Huawei X-True display in all its glory.

The larger screen and multiple modes make the XT a perfect smartphone for those looking to be productive on the go. Huawei is leveraging the 16:11 aspect ratio and high resolution of the screen to optimise productivity. Features like split-screen multitasking take on a whole new meaning with the XT with multiple split-screen modes (1:1, 1:2, and 2:1) that allow for deeper multitasking.

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The tri-fold display also brings three modes of usage. In triple-screen mode – ie fully unfolded – users can enjoy an immersive cinema-like experience, ideal for watching movies or even reviewing detailed documents. The dual-screen mode is perfect for tasks like reading articles, managing emails, or comparing information side-by-side. The single-screen mode provides a compact and focused experience for taking calls, snapping photos, or browsing on the go. This adaptability makes the Mate XT suitable for various use cases, from productivity and content creation to entertainment and casual use.

The Huawei Mate XT Ultimate Design also incorporates Huawie’s XMAGE imaging capabilities into its slim, foldable design. The Mate XT comes with a triple camera array that features a 50-megapixel ultra aperture main sensor, a 12-megapixel ultrawide sensor and a 12-megapixel periscope sensor. The ultra aperture sensor features a 10-step adjustable physical aperture, allowing for greater control over depth of field and image composition. The setup also comes with Dual Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) that helps you get a stable shot. It also features 5.5x optical zoom and up to 50x hybrid zoom. Upfront is an 8-megapixel selfie camera.

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The setup enables users to capture a variety of subjects, from expansive landscapes to detailed close-ups. The Speed Snapshot feature helps capture fast-moving action with clarity and precision.

The Mate XT is powered by an undisclosed Kirin processor. However, it is likely that Huawei is using the Kirin 9010 to provide ample power for demanding tasks and applications. Again, the smartphone doesn’t come with support for 5G connectivity. The smartphone is powered by a 5,600 mAh battery that supports Huawei SuperCharge at 66W and Wireless SuperCharge at 50W.

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All of these specifications are contained within a chassis that is only 4,.75mm at its thinnest and is only 12.8mm at its thickest. It also only weighs about 298g.

Pricing & Availability

The Huawei Mate XT Ultimate Design is available in Red and Black.

In Malaysia, it will be priced at RM14,999. It is currently available for pre-orders until March 14, 2025. Pre-orders can be made at Huawei Experience Stores, the Huawei Official Website, the Huawei Official Store on Shopee, the Huawei Flagship Store on Lazada, and Huawei’s Official TikTok Shop. Pre-orders include a HUAWEI 1-Year Screen Protection plan worth RM3,999.

Internationally, the tri-fold smartphone will be priced at €3499.

Business, News

TM’s Copper Based Streamyx Broadband Ending in February 2025

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Telekom Malaysia (TM) has announced the gradual phasing out of its legacy copper-based broadband services, a move that will culminate in the full discontinuation of offerings like Streamyx by February 28, 2025. This decision marks a significant turning point in Malaysia’s telecommunications story, bringing to a close the era of copper-based internet access that, for many, defined their early online experiences.

End of an Era for Malaysians

Streamyx holds a special place in the memories of many Malaysians. It was often their first taste of broadband internet, opening up a world of faster online access, enabling activities like web browsing, email communication, and early forays into online gaming. It served as a crucial bridge, connecting homes and businesses to the burgeoning digital landscape. However, as technology marched forward and the demand for ever-increasing speeds and bandwidth grew, the inherent limitations of copper-based infrastructure became more and more apparent. Fibre optic technology, with its vastly superior capabilities, emerged as the clear successor, promising a future of seamless connectivity.

TM Streamyx Internet in a box (2)

TM’s decision to phase out Streamyx and other copper-based services like Unifi Lite is a reflection of this inevitable technological progression. Copper infrastructure, while groundbreaking in its time, is now ageing and struggles to keep pace with the demands of today’s internet usage. Fibre optic cables offer significantly faster speeds, lower latency, and improved reliability, making them the ideal choice for supporting bandwidth-intensive applications like high-definition video streaming, online gaming, and cloud-based services. The transition to fibre isn’t simply an upgrade; it’s a necessary step to ensure Malaysia’s digital infrastructure can support a modern, connected society.

Streamyx and Unifi Lite will end on February 28 2025

The services directly impacted by this announcement include Streamyx and Unifi Lite, both of which rely on copper lines to deliver internet access. Existing customers on these plans will need to transition to other TM offerings or explore alternatives from other internet service providers. TM has stated its commitment to working closely with affected users to ensure a smooth transition, offering guidance and support throughout the process.

For consumers currently using Streamyx or Unifi Lite, several options are available. The most straightforward path is to migrate to a Unifi fibre plan. This offers the most direct upgrade, providing access to significantly faster speeds and improved performance. TM is likely to offer various incentives and packages to encourage this transition. However, it’s important to acknowledge that fibre availability isn’t universal across Malaysia. In areas where Unifi fibre is not yet accessible, customers will need to consider other solutions.

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These alternatives include wireless internet services, such as 4G and 5G home broadband. These services use mobile networks to deliver internet access and can be a viable option for those in areas without fibre coverage. However, it’s essential to be aware of potential data caps and possible latency issues associated with wireless broadband. Another option is to explore offerings from other internet service providers in the area. Several companies offer fibre and wireless broadband plans, and comparing these options is crucial for finding the best fit in terms of speed, price, and availability.

Lifestyle, News

The Pebble Smartwatch is Coming Back as RePebble

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Pebble, a name synonymous with early smartwatches, is stirring back to life. After its acquisition by Fitbit and subsequent fading from the market, the brand is poised for a potential comeback, driven by its founder and fueled by the open sourcing of its software. This resurgence centres around a new e-ink wearable project and a renewed focus on the core principles that made Pebble popular in the first place.

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Source: Repebble.com

For those unfamiliar with the brand’s history, Pebble was a pioneer in the smartwatch space. Its focus on simplicity, long battery life thanks to e-ink displays, and a user-friendly interface resonated with many users. Pebble smartwatches were known for their ability to deliver notifications, track basic fitness metrics, and offer a degree of customizability. However, the company struggled to compete with the rise of more feature-rich smartwatches from established tech giants and was eventually acquired by Fitbit in 2016.

Now, several years later, Pebble’s founder, Eric Migicovsky, is embarking on a new venture centred around e-ink wearables. While details remain somewhat scarce, the project aims to recapture the essence of Pebble’s original appeal: long battery life, clear displays, and a focus on core smartwatch functionalities. This new project – RePebble – isn’t a direct revival of the Pebble brand, but it carries the spirit of Pebble’s design philosophy forward. The use of e-ink technology is a clear nod to Pebble’s legacy and a recognition of the enduring appeal of this display technology for wearables.

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Source: Wikipedia.org | The Original Pebble Watch

Adding another layer to this narrative, Google has recently open-sourced PebbleOS’s source code. Migicovsky notes in the RePebble blog post that this development was due to his request to Google. This is a significant development, as it allows developers and enthusiasts to explore the inner workings of Pebble’s software and potentially contribute to its further development. While the open-sourced code may not be directly tied to Migicovsky’s new project, it provides a valuable resource for anyone interested in building upon Pebble’s legacy. The availability of this code could lead to the creation of custom firmware, new apps, and potentially even community-driven hardware projects.

The timing of these developments – the new e-ink wearable project and the open-sourcing of Pebble’s code – has reignited interest in the brand and its potential. While the smartwatch market has evolved significantly since Pebble’s heyday, there remains a segment of users who appreciate the simplicity and long battery life that e-ink wearables offer. Migicovsky’s new project, combined with the open-sourced code, could tap into this market and potentially revive the spirit of Pebble.

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Source: Wikipedia.org | The Pebble 2

It’s important to note that the future of RePebble, or rather, the spirit of Pebble, remains uncertain. Migicovsky’s new project is still in its early stages, and there’s no guarantee of its success. However, the combination of his experience, the open-sourced code, and the enduring appeal of e-ink wearables creates a compelling narrative. Whether this leads to a full-fledged Pebble revival or simply inspires a new generation of e-ink devices remains to be seen. Regardless, it’s clear that Pebble’s legacy continues to resonate, and its influence on the smartwatch market may not be over just yet.