Samsung Malaysia has embarked on an exciting new initiative to nurture the next generation of tech innovators. The company recently kicked off its inaugural Galaxy Campus Program, selecting 19 talented students from various universities across the country.
These students will participate in a year-long program designed to equip them with valuable skills and knowledge in the ever-evolving tech landscape. The program focuses heavily on social media content creation, leveraging the latest Galaxy innovations.
The program kicked off with an immersive workshop led by a Samsung Galaxy trainer. Here, students gained hands-on experience with the powerful Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra, learning how to create engaging and impactful content.
Throughout the year, participants will enjoy exclusive access to a wide range of events and workshops hosted by Samsung Malaysia. This provides valuable networking opportunities, allowing students to connect with local tech enthusiasts and industry leaders.
By fostering a collaborative and enriching environment, Samsung aims to empower these students to become future content creators and tech thought leaders.
Dyson has unveiled its latest innovation in hair care technology, the Supersonic Nural hair dryer, in Malaysia. This intelligent tool boasts a suite of new sensor technologies designed to deliver faster drying times, enhanced hair shine, and most importantly, reduced heat damage for healthier hair and scalp.
James Dyson, Founder and Chief Engineer at Dyson, emphasizes the importance of minimizing heat damage for healthier hair and scalp. The Supersonic Nural addresses this concern with its innovative features like the Scalp Protect Mode. Utilizing a network of Nural sensors, this mode automatically reduces heat as the dryer approaches your head, maintaining a comfortable 55°C temperature suitable for dry, sensitive, and oily scalps alike.
Further ensuring precise heat control in Scalp Protect Mode, the Supersonic Nural employs a time-of-flight sensor. This sensor utilizes an invisible infrared beam to measure the distance between the dryer and your hair.
The Nural sensors offer additional functionalities beyond heat control, enhancing the user experience. The Supersonic Nural™ remembers your preferred heat and airflow settings for each attachment, simplifying your routine. An accelerometer even detects when you put down the dryer, automatically deactivating the heater and reducing airflow for a more seamless experience.
Dyson complements the innovative technology with a sleek design. The Supersonic Nural features a clear end cap showcasing the internal workings and comes in bold colour options like Ceramic Patina and Topaz. The powerful motor ensures fast drying times, with the ability to dry hair six times faster.
Pricing & Availability
The Dyson Supersonic Nural™ hair dryer is available for purchase starting May 27th, 2024, at RM2,399. You can find it at Dyson Demo Stores and on the Dyson website. The dryer comes with five intelligent attachments included, with additional accessories available for separate purchase.
AEON Bank (M) Berhad officially launched its operations on May 26, 2024, marking a significant milestone as Malaysia’s first fully Islamic digital bank. The launch ceremony, held at AEON Hall, AEON Mall Shah Alam, was attended by prominent figures from the financial sector and government, including Yang Bahagi Datuk Johan Mahmood Merican, Secretary General of Treasury, Ministry of Finance.
From left to right: Datuk Johan Mahmood Merican, Secretary General of Treasury, Ministry of Finance; Raja Teh Maimunah, CEO of AEON Bank (M) Berhad; Daisuke Maeda, Non-Independent Executive Director of AEON Bank (M) Berhad & Chairman ofAEON Credit Service (M) Berhad; Naoya Okada, Managing Director of AEON Co (M) Berhad
AEON Bank offers a variety of Shariah-compliant digital banking solutions for personal banking customers. These currently include:
Savings Account-i: This account offers a competitive profit rate.
Savings Pots: Users can create customized savings pots to achieve specific financial goals.
Budgeting Tools: These tools help users manage their finances effectively.
Customers who activate their accounts can immediately access a virtual AEON Bank x Visa Debit Card-i. A physical debit card option is also available upon request.
AEON Bank emphasizes providing a seamless user experience. New customers signing up during the launch campaign can enjoy a 3,000 AEON Points bonus and earn triple the points on transactions using their new debit card. Additionally, existing members of the AEON Points program will have their membership automatically linked to the AEON Bank app. This integration unlocks further benefits and rewards across the extensive AEON ecosystem, encompassing AEON Malls, supermarkets, and partner merchants. Points earned can be conveniently converted to cash within the user’s AEON Bank account.
AEON Bank is committed to reaching a broad customer base. The launch campaign at AEON Mall Shah Alam featured public activations, family-oriented activities, and exclusive giveaways to engage with the community. This approach will continue with nationwide roadshows planned across eight Malaysian states from June to November 2024.
By prioritizing accessibility, AEON Bank aims to empower all Malaysians, particularly the underserved and unbanked segments, to participate in the financial system and achieve their financial goals. The launch of this Islamic digital bank is a noteworthy development in Malaysia’s evolving financial landscape.
The fight for consumer rights to repair their own electronics took a significant blow this month. Following a leaked contract revealing controversial practices, iFixit, a leading online repair resource and parts supplier, announced the termination of its collaboration with Samsung.
The controversy stems from a leaked Samsung repair contract which outlines some concerning stipulations for independent repair shops. According to the leaked document, Samsung allegedly requires these shops to:
Share customer data: This includes names, contact information, and details of the repair itself. This data would be uploaded daily to a Samsung database.
“Snitch” on customers using aftermarket parts: The contract reportedly requires shops to identify and report customers who choose to use non-Samsung repair parts.
Disassemble phones with aftermarket parts: Independent repair shops would be obligated to dismantle any device found to have non-Samsung parts, essentially rendering it unusable.
These requirements raise serious privacy concerns and limit consumer choice when it comes to repairing their own devices.
In response to these revelations, iFixit announced the official termination of its partnership with Samsung. Their statement highlights the “unreasonable restrictions” and “lack of trust” that ultimately led to the decision. This move reflects iFixit’s commitment to advocating for consumer repair rights and ensuring access to the information and parts needed for independent repairs.
Samsung issued a statement acknowledging the partnership’s end but downplaying the leaked contract’s implications. They claim their data collection practices are for “security purposes” and emphasize their commitment to providing repair options.
However, the controversy reignites the debate around the “Right to Repair” movement. Consumers are increasingly demanding the freedom to choose how and where they get their devices fixed. Legislation aimed at ensuring access to repair manuals, parts, and diagnostic tools is gaining traction worldwide.
The situation between Samsung and iFixit serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing battle for consumer repair rights. While some manufacturers prioritize control and proprietary parts, movements like iFixit and the “Right to Repair” campaign advocate for user empowerment and environmental sustainability through independent repairs.
Remember those iconic bouncing notification bubbles and the frantic race to type “uh-oh” before someone else did? For many of us, ICQ was our gateway into the world of instant messaging. Now, after nearly 28 years of service, ICQ is officially shutting down on June 26, 2024.
ICQ, short for “I Seek You,” rose to prominence in the late 90s and early 2000s. Back then, it was a revelation. Gone were the days of dial-up connections and clunky chat rooms. ICQ offered a more personal and convenient way to connect with friends and family online.
The user interface was simple and intuitive. Those expressive buddy icons, the ability to send “away messages,” and the ever-so-satisfying sound of a message popping up – ICQ delivered a unique and engaging user experience.
Beyond basic chat functionalities, ICQ offered features like file transfers, chat rooms, and even rudimentary online games. It was a one-stop shop for online communication and entertainment, fostering a vibrant online community.
However, the tech world is a fast-paced one. New and more feature-rich platforms like WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger emerged, offering a wider range of functionalities and seamless integration with social media. ICQ, while still holding a nostalgic charm for many, struggled to keep pace.
The official announcement from ICQ is brief, simply stating the shutdown date and directing users towards their other chat solutions, VK Messenger and VK Workplace. While this marks the end of an era for ICQ, it serves as a reminder of the ever-changing nature of technology.
For many, ICQ will remain more than just a piece of software. It was a platform that fostered friendships, facilitated communication across borders, and introduced a generation to the wonders of online interaction. While ICQ may be saying goodbye, the memories and connections forged through its platform will undoubtedly live on.
Spotify’s foray into car integration hardware has come to an abrupt end. The Car Thing, a voice-controlled device designed to enhance your in-car listening experience, will cease operation entirely by December 9th, 2024.
Source: Spotify
Launched in early 2022, the Car Thing received mixed reviews. While some users appreciated its physical buttons and voice controls for Spotify playback, others found its design bulky and its functionality limited compared to existing smartphone integration options.
The official announcement from Spotify cites a shift in gears, focusing on “new, innovative ways to enhance your drives in the future.” This doesn’t offer much solace to users who invested in the Car Thing, which will essentially become a useless brick after December.
Source: Spotify
Adding insult to injury, Spotify advises users to factory reset their Car Thing devices and dispose of them responsibly. No refunds are being offered.
This decision has sparked frustration among Car Thing owners, who feel left in the lurch with a now-obsolete device. Social media is abuzz with complaints about the lack of transparency and the sudden end-of-life announcement.
While the Spotify Car Thing’s journey has been short-lived, it serves as a reminder of the ever-evolving landscape of in-car technology. With major car manufacturers integrating advanced infotainment systems and seamless smartphone connectivity, standalone hardware solutions may struggle to find a niche in the future.
OPPO has unveiled its latest smartphone series, the Reno 12 and Reno 12 Pro, ushering in a new era of smartphone design and user experience. Both phones boast a stunning quad-curved display, a revolutionary design that pushes the boundaries of immersion and aesthetics. Let’s delve deeper into the specifications, design, and software features that make the Reno 12 series stand out.
Quad Curved Display on A Reno Smartphone
The defining feature of the Reno 12 series is undoubtedly its groundbreaking quad-curved display. Unlike previous models with curved edges on just the sides, the Reno 12 boasts a display that curves gently on all four sides. This creates a truly immersive visual experience, blurring the lines between the display and the phone’s frame for a seamless and futuristic look.
Both the Reno 12 and Reno 12 Pro feature a large 6.7-inch FHD+ (1080 x 2412 pixels) AMOLED display with a smooth 120Hz refresh rate for exceptional clarity and responsiveness. Whether you’re gaming, watching videos, or browsing the web, the Reno 12 series promises a visually captivating experience.
MediaTek Under the Hood
Under the hood, the Reno 12 and Reno 12 Pro pack a serious punch. The 12 is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 8250 chipset, a capable processor designed for everyday tasks, multimedia, and even light gaming. The Pro model steps it up a notch with the more powerful MediaTek Dimensity 9200+, ideal for users who demand high performance for mobile gaming and applications.
Both chipsets are paired with ample LPDDR5X RAM, ensuring smooth multitasking and app switching. The base models for both phones come with 12GB of RAM, with options for up to 16GB on higher-tier variants. Storage options range from 256GB to a staggering 1TB, providing ample space for your photos, videos, and apps.
OPPO Reno’s Signature Camera Powered Up
The OPPO Reno 12 series doesn’t disappoint in the camera department. Both phones are equipped with a triple-lens rear camera system housed in a sleek rectangular module. The primary sensor on the Reno 12 is a 50-megapixel Sony LYT600 sensor, capable of capturing crisp and detailed photos in various lighting conditions. It’s accompanied by a 50-megapixel telephoto lens with 2x optical zoom for capturing distant subjects and an 8-megapixel ultra-wide sensor for capturing expansive landscapes and group shots. The Reno 12 Pro takes things a step further with a Sony IMX890 primary sensor, also boasting 50 megapixels but promising even better low-light performance.
On the front, both phones boast a remarkable 50-megapixel selfie camera, ensuring you can take high-quality selfies and video calls. OPPO has included a variety of software features to enhance your photography experience, including AI scene recognition, night mode, portrait mode, and various filters.
Beautiful on the Outside, Powerful on the Inside
The innovative quad-curved display isn’t the only design highlight of the series. Both phones are crafted from a lightweight and durable die-cast aluminium alloy frame, giving them a premium feel in the hand. The back panel is covered in Corning Gorilla Glass for added protection against scratches and nicks. The Reno 12 and Reno 12 Pro come in a variety of colourways, allowing you to choose a phone that matches your style.
The Reno 12 series runs on Android 14 with OPPO’s ColorOS 14 custom interface on top. ColorOS 14 offers a clean and user-friendly experience with a wide range of customization options. It also includes a variety of features designed to enhance your productivity and entertainment experience, such as a dark mode, app cloning, and a game mode.
Both the 12 and 12 Pro boast impressive battery capacities of 5000mAh, ensuring you can stay connected and productive throughout the day. The phones also support 80W fast charging, allowing you to quickly power up your device when needed.
Pricing & Availability
The OPPO Reno 12 series is currently available for pre-order in China, with a global launch expected soon.
The OPPO Reno 12 will be available in three variants: 12GB RAM + 256GB storage priced at CN¥2,699 (approx. USD$413 / RM1,733); 16GB + 256GB priced at CN¥2,999 (approx. USD$460 / RM1,925); and 16GB RAM + 512GB storage priced at CN¥3,499 (approx. USD$533 / RM2,228). The Reno 12 will be available in Soft Peach, Ebony Black and Millenium Silver.
The OPPO Reno 12 Pro will also come in similar variants. The version with 12GB RAM + 256GB storage will be priced at CN¥3,299 (approx. USD $507 / RM2,118) while the 16GB RAM + 256GB storage version will be priced at CN¥3,599 (approx. USD $550 / RM2,298) and the 16GB RAM + 1TB storage version will be priced at CN¥4,299 (approx. USD $658 / RM2,753). The 12 Pro will be available in Silver Fantasy Purple, Ebony Black, and Champagne Gold.
As Malaysia battles rising temperatures and unpredictable weather patterns, Panasonic is taking its cooling game to the next level with a brand new line of Inverter Air Conditioners. But these air conditioners go beyond just providing a comfortable escape from the heat – they prioritize sustainability too, making them an eco-friendly solution that’s easy on your wallet.
Panasonic spokesperson with the new model air-conditioner at the launch. From left: Stephen Eric Khan, Chief Sales & Marketing Officer, Panasonic Air-Conditioning Malaysia (PACMY), Masahiko Miyoshi, Director, Asia Pacific HVAC Marketing Centre, Panasonic Appliances Air-Conditioning Malaysia, Dai Nishi, Chief Operating Officer, Panasonic Air-Conditioning Malaysia (PACMY), Liew Choon Wah, Sales Director, Consumer Product Sales Division, Panasonic Malaysia
“Air conditioners are no longer a luxury in Malaysia, they’re a necessity,” says Dai Nishi, Chief Operating Officer of Panasonic Air-Conditioning Malaysia. “While creating a comfortable living space is crucial, we’re also mindful of the environmental impact. Our new series embodies the spirit of ‘Beyond the Cool’ – it’s about innovative technology that keeps you cool while keeping the planet in mind.”
Panasonic’s new lineup caters to a diverse range of needs. Whether you’re a busy family seeking a cool haven to unwind after a long day or an environmentally conscious individual looking for ways to reduce your carbon footprint, there’s a Panasonic air conditioner that will perfectly suit you.
Top-Tier Comfort and Efficiency: Smart Cooling X-Deluxe Inverter Series (KU)
For those seeking the ultimate in comfort and energy efficiency, the Smart Cooling X-Deluxe Inverter Series (KU) boasts top-of-the-line features. This series comes equipped with built-in WiFi, a stellar 5-star energy rating, and cutting-edge technology to ensure an unparalleled cooling experience.
Panasonic spokesperson with the new line up of air-conditioners at the launch. From left: Stephen Eric Khan, Chief Sales & Marketing Officer, Panasonic Air-Conditioning Malaysia (PACMY), Masahiko Miyoshi, Director, Asia Pacific HVAC Marketing Centre, Panasonic Appliances Air-Conditioning Malaysia, Dai Nishi, Chief Operating Officer, Panasonic Air-Conditioning Malaysia (PACMY), Liew Choon Wah, Sales Director, Consumer Product Sales Division, Panasonic Malaysia
Sleek Design Meets Powerful Cooling: X-Deluxe Inverter Series (RU)
If you prioritize aesthetics alongside advanced technology, then the X-Deluxe Inverter Series (RU), available exclusively at chain stores, might be the perfect choice. This series seamlessly blends sleek design with powerful cooling, featuring technologies like nanoe™ X Technology and AI ECO mode for optimal comfort and energy savings.
Reliable Cooling Solutions for Businesses and Projects: Smart Inverter Series (LU)
Need a reliable cooling solution for your commercial space or a residential project? Look no further than the Smart Inverter Series (LU), designed specifically for E-COMM and project applications. This series offers consistent comfort and maximizes energy efficiency with essential features like Inverter technology.
Budget-Friendly Options: Standard Inverter Series (PU) & Eco Inverter Series (YU)
For budget-conscious consumers, Panasonic offers two value-driven options. The Standard Inverter Series (PU) provides efficient cooling without compromising on performance. This series boasts optional WiFi connectivity and a 5-star energy rating, making it ideal for those seeking affordability without sacrificing quality.
The most affordable option in the lineup is the Eco Inverter Series (YU). This series is perfect for those looking for a cost-effective solution for bedrooms, living rooms, or office spaces. Despite its accessible price point, the Eco Inverter Series still delivers essential features to ensure a comfortable living environment.
Pricing & Availability
Panasonic’s new Inverter Air Conditioners cater to a wide range of budgets, with prices starting from RM 1,684 onwards. All Panasonic Inverter Air Conditioners are available for purchase at authorized Panasonic dealers and online retailers.
Hot on the heels of the Sonos Ace, their budget-friendly portable speaker, Sonos has stealthily released the Roam 2. This new iteration of the popular Roam portable speaker seems to address a key user pain point: Bluetooth pairing.
The original Sonos Roam required a confusing two-step process – connecting to Wi-Fi first before enabling Bluetooth functionality. This frustrated users accustomed to the simplicity of Bluetooth pairing on most portable speakers. The Roam 2 rectifies this issue, allowing for a seamless Bluetooth connection right out of the box. This makes the Roam 2 a more user-friendly option for those who want to enjoy high-quality audio on the go, without the need for a Wi-Fi connection.
According to the official Sonos website, the Roam 2 retains the core strengths of its predecessor. Users can expect the same durable, IP67 water-resistant design, impressive sound quality for its size, and compatibility with the Sonos ecosystem for multi-room audio experiences. It also boasts Automatic Trueplay tuning, which according to Sonos, automatically adjusts the speaker’s sound to optimize the listening experience in any environment. It will also have 10 hours of playback on a single charge. However, details on how Bluetooth connectivity will impact the battery life of the Sonos Roam 2 are still unknown.
Pricing and Availability
The Sonos Roam 2 is currently available in the official Sonos store. It is retailing for the same price point as the original Roam – €199. It will be available in Black, White, Red, Blue and Green colourways.
No information is available yet from TC Acoustic on regional availability in Singapore and Malaysia. However, with the price point remaining the same worldwide, we expect that the same will be true when it launches here.
Microsoft is signaling a paradigm shift in PCs with the introduction of CoPilot+ PCs. This new generation of intelligent machines leverages the power of ARM processors and AI features to redefine user experience. Here’s a closer look at the all-new Surface Laptop and Surface Pro, the first devices to spearhead the CoPilot+ revolution.
Surface Laptop – Designed for Mobility and Productivity
The Surface Laptop continues its legacy of being a thin-and-light laptop. Starting at a feathery 2.96 lbs (1.34 kg), it boasts a 13.8-inch PixelSense touchscreen HDR display with vibrant colors and exceptional clarity. The AI-powered features take center stage, with innovations like “Recall” allowing users to effortlessly search through past activities and retrieve information. Imagine revisiting a specific point in a document you viewed weeks ago – Recall surfaces it instantly.
The Surface Laptop is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon X series processors with upto 32 GB of RAM and upto 1 TB of memory, delivering exceptional performance and efficiency. Multiple sources, including Engadget, highlight an impressive battery life exceeding 22 hours on a single charge – perfect for professionals and students on the go. The sleek, signature design is available in a variety of captivating colors, making a statement wherever you take it.
Surface Pro – Unmatched Versatility and Power
The Surface Pro remains the ultimate device for those who demand flexibility. This 2-in-1 powerhouse seamlessly transforms from a high-performance laptop to a versatile tablet with its stunning 13-inch PixelSense touchscreen display. The detachable keyboard with backlit keys ensures a comfortable typing experience, while the integrated kickstand allows for effortless adaptation to any work style.
Under the hood, the Surface Pro boasts the mighty Qualcomm Snapdragon X series chips complemented by up to 32GB of RAM and 1 TB of memory, delivering exceptional performance for demanding tasks like video editing and creative workflows.
Pricing & Availability
The Surface Laptop and Surface Pro with CoPilot+ features are available for pre-order now, with official release dates expected in early July.
The Surface Laptop starts at $999 and comes in a variety of colors, including Sapphire, Platinum, and the ever-popular Matte Black.
The Surface Pro starts at $1,000 and is available in Platinum and Graphite color options.
