CelcomDigi is extending a heartfelt invitation to every Malaysian to participate in crafting a remarkable artwork for Hari Malaysia. This collaborative effort will take centre stage in the country’s grandest crowdsourced Malaysia Day advertisement.
Embracing the spirit of unity and echoing this year’s theme, “Malaysia Madani: Tekad Perpaduan, Penuhi Harapan” (Civilized Malaysia: A Pledge for Unity, Fulfilling Hopes), CelcomDigi aspires to unite Malaysians through an extraordinary piece of art. This artwork will vividly portray our nation’s rich tapestry of cultures, celebrating the diversity that defines us.
Malaysia holds unique significance for each of its citizens, and this initiative provides an ideal platform for Malaysians to express their love for their country and their pride in being Malaysian.
How Can You Contribute to #CelcomDigiHariMalaysia?
Step 1: Let your creativity flow and capture a photograph that encapsulates the Malaysia you hold dear.
Step 2: Share your photo on your Instagram feed with the hashtag #CelcomDigiHariMalaysia.
Step 3: Ensure that your profile is set to public so that your contribution can shine.
Photo submissions are being accepted from now until September 12, 2023, at 11:59 p.m. Don’t hold back; you can submit as many photos as your heart desires. This is your golden opportunity to see your photos displayed on September 16, 2023, on over 60 digital out-of-home billboards, including Celcom Bluecube and Digi Stores throughout the nation!
Join CelcomDigi and fellow Malaysians in crafting a visual masterpiece that encapsulates the essence of our beloved nation. Let your photographs become part of Malaysia’s story this Hari Malaysia.
In the ever-challenging digital landscape, Malaysia’s MCMC (Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission) is pondering significant changes to address online issues and economic strain on local news media, drawing inspiration from international counterparts like Australia and Canada.
Curbing the spread of misinformation and cyber threats
With the exponential growth of the internet, Malaysia, like many nations, grapples with various online challenges. The MCMC met with representatives from Meta (formerly Facebook) and Google to discuss measures against child sexual abuse material, online gambling, scams promotion of prohibited substances, fake news and content inciting Race, Royalty and Religious (3R). Similar talks with TikTok have also been scheduled in the near future.
While digital platforms offer convenience and connectivity, they also bring about issues such as disinformation and data privacy concerns. Implementing frameworks that hold tech giants accountable can be a step in the right direction.
Fair compensation for media, inspired by Australia and Canada
Australia and Canada have recently taken steps to compel tech giants like Google and Meta to compensate local news outlets for using their content. Australia is using the world’s first Mandatory News Media Bargaining Code, which ensures fair compensation of media by Google and Meta for using their content. In Canada, the Bill C11 regulates streaming platforms and ensures these platforms support Canadian content.
Currently, there is an imbalance in income for traditional Advertising Expenditure (ADEX) between digital platforms and local media in Malaysia. The MCMC is now looking to adopt similar frameworks as Australia and Canada to address this imbalance. This move is significant because it acknowledges the importance of journalism in our digital age and aims to rectify the economic disparities within the media industry.
MCMC looks towards a fair and secure digital landscape in Malaysia
Should MCMC choose to follow in Australia and Canada’s footsteps, the repercussions for Malaysia’s digital landscape could be profound. Local news outlets may see a boost in revenue, ensuring the sustainability of quality journalism. As Malaysia navigates these uncharted waters, it’s crucial to strike a balance between protecting local media interests and promoting digital innovation.
Mark Zuckerberg has announced that Threads is finally bringing the keyword search functionality to “most English and Spanish-speaking countries.”
The recent expansion follows a week-long testing phase in Australia and New Zealand. Prior to this update, Threads had only allowed users to find friends with the search feature. This new development hints at Threads’ aspirations of becoming a more comprehensive social network platform, further contesting Twitter (who is now your X) in the social media rat race.
The announcement also suggests that more countries will soon gain access. But it’s also worth noting that “most English and Spanish-speaking countries” remain vague in terms of who will see the feature first. We will just have to keep our eyes peeled for further updates from Meta and Threads.
The digital age of smartphones and apps gave birth to plenty of alternatives for communication methods. We are not really talking about the evolution of 3G to 4G to the current 5G, or whatever that it will evolve into the future. We are talking about going back to messenger apps that sort of lost their appeal when mobile phones became a thing in the Windows XP era. Thanks to the large uptake of an app ecosystem like Apple’s App Store, WhatsApp became a big phenomenon, even bigger than the BlackBerry Messenger. Even with BlackBerry bringing their Messenger app, the rise of apps like Signal, and even Telegram, WhatsApp remains the most popular alternative messenger app you use on your smartphone. There is a good reason for that.
WhatApp, while starting out as a rather simple messenger app for the masses and bridging the gap between Apple iOS and Google Android users, has progressed to become something beyond a simple messenger. The look has not changed all that much to be fair, but the number of features that is packed into the app makes it one of the most complete messenger apps you have out there. One of biggest or most significant updates, at least in our opinions, is the introduction of Communities into the platform. They are not stopping there though.
Source: WA Beta Info
According to the most reliable WhatsApp leak sources, WA Beta Info, WhatsApp is now working on bringing third-party messaging into the platform. This will be in accordance with the European Union’s Digital Markets Act (DMA) regulations that obligate tech companies to offer a more global communication tool that allows users from different platforms to communicate with each other. That also means that you might be able to start texting your friend on Telegram or WeChat without having to download those apps or have any account on the apps and vice versa.
While it has appeared as a Beta feature on WhatsApp Beta version 2.23.19.8 for Android, it does not mean that we will see the feature coming as a fully developed feature anytime soon. There are plenty of things to work on when it comes to third-party app messaging abilities. For one, end-to-end encryption between different apps works rather differently from one another. While a previous interview tells us that the encryption protocol between Signal and WhatsApp is rather similar, there are no guarantees that both apps can communicate with each other without hiccups. There is also a problem of the different programming languages and architecture on the platforms for seamless transition and communication between each of the programs. You also want to keep in mind that not all the features that come out in the Beta version of WhatsApp will be released as a full feature for WhatsApp in the future.
This Beta feature is a little different though. It is developed in compliance with a sanctioned regulation. That also means that we will most likely see the feature being baked into WhatsApp and other messenger apps like Telegram and even Signal. It is just a matter of time.
ASUS Malaysia has unveiled the Marshmallow Keyboard KW100, a wireless keyboard that combines style, functionality, and versatility. This compact keyboard is not only eye-catching with its Oat Milk and Green Tea Latte colour options, but it also boasts a range of features that make it a valuable addition to any computing setup.
What sets the ASUS Marshmallow Keyboard apart is its distinct colour schemes. Available in Oat Milk and Green Tea Latte, this keyboard breaks away from the monotony of traditional black, beige, or grey keyboards. Even essential keys like Spacebar, Enter, and Esc are thoughtfully designed in a darker shade for better visibility. This unique colour palette not only adds a touch of sophistication but also pairs perfectly with modern laptops, PCs, and tablets.
The Marshmallow Keyboard comes with scissor keys that are meticulously engineered to offer a typing feel that’s both familiar and enjoyable, with a 1.6mm travel distance for enhanced comfort. What’s more, the keystrokes are impressively quiet, thanks to a foam layer that reduces keyboard noise to less than 50 dB per keystroke. This ensures you can work in peace without the distraction of noisy typing. Additionally, the keyboard features two-level adjustable kickstands, allowing you to find the ideal typing position.
The ASUS Marshmallow Keyboard offers Bluetooth 5.0 LE connectivity, allowing it to connect seamlessly with up to three devices, including laptops, PCs, and tablets. Switching between devices is effortless, enhancing your productivity. It also includes two system switch keys, making it easy to toggle between different operating modes, whether you’re using Windows, ChromeOS, MacOS, iOS, or iPadOS. This versatility ensures you can work efficiently, no matter your device.
Durability is a key focus for ASUS. The Marshmallow Keyboard is equipped with up to 10 million click switches, ensuring it stands the test of time. Each key is coated with UV-resistant material for added longevity. Plus, ASUS has taken an eco-friendly approach by packaging the keyboard in paper-based packaging, significantly reducing plastic waste.
Availability and Pricing
The ASUS Marshmallow Keyboard KW100 is now available in Malaysia, priced at MYR179.
If you’re looking for a matching accessory, the Marshmallow Mouse MD100, also available in the new Oat Milk and Green Tea Latte colour schemes, can be purchased for RM149.
PayPal debit and credit cardholders can now integrate their cards into the Apple Wallet app, making them accessible for use with Apple Pay. The process is straightforward and can be accomplished in two ways.
Firstly, you can open the iOS PayPal app and find the conspicuous “Pay with your iPhone” banner on the homepage. By tapping this banner, you will be redirected to the Apple Wallet app, where you can conveniently add your PayPal debit or credit cards.
Alternatively, you can add your PayPal cards to your Apple Wallet by opening the app and selecting the plus icon in the display’s upper right corner. Follow the step-by-step instructions to integrate either your PayPal credit card, PayPal debit card, or both into your Wallet app. Once added, you can choose which PayPal card to use for transactions when using Apple Pay.
It’s important to note that Apple retains a small fee of 0.15% of the transaction value, equating to 15 cents for every $100 spent using Apple Pay.
Interestingly, Venmo, a subsidiary of PayPal, is also expected to introduce Apple Pay support for its Venmo credit and debit cards, although this feature has yet to be implemented.
This development coincides with Apple’s recent promotion of its Apple Pay service by releasing several promotional videos. According to analysts, Apple Pay could generate up to $4 billion in revenue this year, solidifying its position as the fifth most widely used payment method globally, trailing only behind PayPal, Visa, Mastercard, and American Express.
Toshiba has just launched its latest lineup of TVs in Malaysia. These include three flagship models: the Toshiba Z870M, Z670M, and M550M. What makes these TVs stand out are their extraordinary features, and there’s an exciting free gift offer for Malaysian consumers.
Toshiba Z870M Pushing The Boundaries for Visual & Audio Experiences
The Z870M is a TV designed with immersion and content enjoyment in mind. The Mini LED technology deployed in the Z870M features Quantum Dot Colour technology that allows for true-to-life colour reproduction. The TV also supports multiple HDR formats including Dolby Vision HDR, HDR10+ and HLG. These technologies allow the screen to retain detail even in the darkest scenes.
It also features a native refresh rate of 144Hz and is equipped with AMD FreeSync technology, ensuring smooth gaming even at high frame rates. The REGZA Engine ZRi optimizes audio-visuals based on content and surroundings.
For audio enthusiasts, the TV includes REGZA Bass Woofer PRO with Tru Bass Booster and supports Dolby Atmos, providing an immersive audio experience. Additionally, it offers Smart Sharing, allowing content streaming from Apple devices via Apple HomeKit technology.
Toshiba Z670M: Immersive Gaming and Visual Excellence
The Z670M takes gaming and visuals to the next level. It boasts Full Array Local Dimming Pro for stunning contrast ratios and Quantum Dot Technology for vibrant colours. Dolby Vision Atmos enhances the audio-visual experience.
Front-firing speakers and the REGZA Bass System make sure that the sound quality matches the visuals. Game Mode Pro optimizes colour correction for a smoother gaming experience.
Toshiba M550M: Elevating Visual and Audio Quality
The M550M focuses on delivering exceptional visual clarity. It features the REGZA Engine ZR with AI Upscaling for a lifelike viewing experience. Quantum Dot Technology ensures natural and vivid colours.
Sound quality is equally impressive with REGZA Power Audio PRO and Tru Bass Booster. This TV intelligently upscales content to 4K quality, providing the true beauty of any content.
All three models come with Smart TV functions, including Google TV and Apple AirPlay. Google TV simplifies entertainment by recommending content based on user preferences, while Apple AirPlay enables effortless content streaming from Apple devices.
Pricing and Availability
During the promotional period from September 1st to September 30th, 2023, you can take advantage of special offers:
The Toshiba M550M model is set to launch in October 2023.
But the excitement doesn’t end there. When you purchase the 65-inch Z870M, you’ll receive a free Asus ROG Ally worth RM 3,299. For the 55-inch Z870M, you’ll get a Logitech Z906 surround speaker, and for the Z670M (both 65-inch and 55-inch), you’ll receive Bose TV speakers as free gifts.
Xiaomi has officially launched the Redmi 12 5G in Malaysia, bringing an exceptional entry-level 5G smartphone into the market. This device offers blazing-fast 5G connectivity, an elegant design, and a range of impressive features, making it a formidable addition to the Redmi series. What’s more, the Redmi 12 5G is now available in Malaysia through Celcom and Digi’s postpaid bundle plans.
At the heart of this powerhouse is the Snapdragon® 4 Gen 2 Mobile Platform. This 4nm processor is a beast, boasting two high-performance cores and six efficiency cores that reach clock speeds of up to 2.2GHz and 2.0GHz, respectively. With 8GB of RAM and expandable storage of up to 1TB, this device delivers flagship-level performance without breaking the bank. It’s the perfect companion for experiencing the lightning-fast speeds of 5G technology.
But that’s not all; the Redmi 12 5G makes a statement with its design. It’s available in three captivating colours: Midnight Black, Sky Blue, and Polar Silver. The device features a premium glass back and an eye-catching infinite camera deco design. Despite its impressive features, it maintains a svelte 8.17mm profile, providing both aesthetics and a comfortable grip.
When it comes to the display, the Redmi 12 5G doesn’t disappoint. It boasts a sizable 6.79-inch FHD+ DotDisplay screen with a 2460×1080 resolution. This means you get an immersive viewing experience, making it ideal for gaming and binge-watching your favourite shows. Plus, with SGS Low Blue Light certification and Reading Mode 3.0, you can enjoy content for extended periods without straining your eyes. Additionally, its IP53 rating ensures it can handle everyday dust and splashes with ease.
Photography enthusiasts will appreciate the dual-camera system on the Redmi 12 5G. It features a powerful 50-megapixel main camera and a 2-megapixel depth camera that produces stunning bokeh effects, adding authenticity to your photos. The device offers various modes, including HDR, night mode, portrait mode, and even movie frame and time-lapse mode for capturing creative videos. With seven popular film camera filters, you can elevate your photography game with real-time previews and pixel-level calculations.
Keeping you connected and powered up is a priority for the Redmi 12 5G. It features an 18W Type-C fast charging port and a robust 5,000mAh battery that ensures you stay productive throughout the day. In fact, it supports up to 23 days of standby, 179 hours of music, 32 hours of reading, or 27 hours of video playback, making it an excellent choice for both work and play. Plus, it retains convenient features like a 3.5mm headphone jack and NFC. It can even serve as an IR remote control for your other home devices.
Pricing and Availability
The Redmi 12 5G (8GB+256GB) is now available in Malaysia through Celcom and Digi‘s postpaid bundle plans.
A highlight of this event is the unveiling of the brand new Xiaomi TV A Series and Xiaomi TV A Pro Series, now available in all Xiaomi Authorized Stores in Malaysia and online at official Xiaomi stores on Lazada, with prices starting at just RM 1,199.
The new TVs are the latest additions to Xiaomi’s ecosystem and are poised to serve as smart home control hubs for AIoT connectivity, offering an exceptional entertainment experience.
Xiaomi TV A Series
The Xiaomi TV A series features a premium metal bezel-less design allowing the TVs to blend into any room seamlessly. The series has models supporting resolutions as high as 4K UHD and a 60Hz refresh rate. The high resolution of the TV A series is complemented by support for up to 20W Dolby Audio, DTS-HD, and DTS Virtual: X, delivering true-to-life, immersive sound. The series supports connectivity through Bluetooth 5.0 and dual-band WiFi. The series also features HDMI and USB inputs. The higher-specced versions feature eARC technology.
Xiaomi’s TV A series continues to run on Google TV. The OS allows users to seamlessly connect using their smartphones as remote controls through Google Home and access a myriad of TV-optimised apps from the Google Play Store. You’ll even be able to project your phone or laptop screens wirelessly via the built-in Chromecast functionality.
The A Series will be available in multiple sizes, including 43-inch and 55-inch, with a 32-inch variant expected to arrive soon.
Xiaomi TV A Pro Series
The Xiaomi TV A Pro Series ups the ante with a sleeker, single-stand design with a premium metallic frame and bezel-less aesthetics, perfectly complementing modern home decor. The TVs in the series feature 4K UHD displays with a 60Hz refresh rate complemented by 24W (2 x 12) speakers. The sound experience on TVs is perfected with features such as Dolby Audio, DTS-X, and DTS Virtual: X.
Like the A series, the A Pro series comes with Google TV as the operating system. The Xiaomi TV A Pro Series comes in multiple sizes, including 43-inch, 55-inch, and 65-inch models.
Showcasing Home Living Innovations at Sunway Pyramid
Xiaomi’s smart ecosystem empowers consumers to enhance their quality of life through innovative technology. These products offer seamless connectivity and control via smartphones or tablets, making smart living not only accessible but also affordable.
Running from September 7 to 10, the Smart Living Showcase invites visitors to explore a wide range of smart AIoT products across various categories. These include TWS and wearable, Kitchen Appliances, Personal Care, Smart Cameras and security, Smart Cleaning, and environmental appliances. Among the showcased products are the new Xiaomi Pad 6, Xiaomi vacuums, air purifiers, security cameras, wearables, and more.
Xiaomi will be showcasing these innovations at the LG2 Blue Concourse, Sunway Pyramid, Petaling Jaya. During this event, Xiaomi will simulate real-life living environments to showcase how their state-of-the-art AIoT products integrate seamlessly into daily life, ultimately enhancing the way we live.
Pricing and Availability:
The Xiaomi TV A Pro Series starts at RM 1,399 and is available in three sizes: 43-, 55-, and 65-inches.
The Xiaomi TV A Series starts at RM 1,199 and is available in two sizes at launch: 43- and 55-inches. The 32-inch version will be available soon.
For a limited time, users can enjoy exclusive deals on Xiaomi TV A Pro Series and Xiaomi TV A Series. On September 9, buyers can benefit from special Open Sale savings at Authorized Xiaomi stores in Malaysia or Xiaomi TV A Series at the official Xiaomi Store on Lazada.
Additionally, the first 100 customers to purchase any Xiaomi TV A Pro Series at the Xiaomi Smart Living Showcase in Sunway Pyramid will receive a Free Gift and have the chance to enter a Lucky Draw event with exclusive prizes worth RM 11,997 up for grabs.
Clubhouse, once the talk of Silicon Valley and the darling of pandemic-era social media, is undergoing a transformation. Earlier this year, the company announced layoffs of half its staff as it embarked on creating “Clubhouse 2.0.” Now, the results of this shift are in, and it’s all about making Clubhouse more like a messaging app.
Source: Clubhouse
The shift means moving away from its iconic “drop-in” audio conversations to focus on voice chats centred around friends. Instead of large, open rooms for live-streamed discussions, the new Clubhouse encourages users to form groups with people they already know. These groups, somewhat perplexingly named “chats,” enable friends and friends-of-friends to exchange voice messages.
From Forum to Personable Chats
The key feature of this update is “Chats.” Think of Chats as voice-only group chats with your closest friends. They’re asynchronous, so you can drop in and participate at your convenience. It’s like a blend of group texts and Instagram Stories, except with voices.
Chats come with convenient features like push-to-talk, 2x listening speed, skip and swipe between chats, and the option to engage in private voice conversations. What sets them apart from group texting is speed and personalization. Chats are faster, allowing groups to share more, including nuances and off-the-record content, with automatic transcription and translation into your language.
Source: Clubhouse
Voice adds a personal touch that text can’t match. You can hear your friends’ emotions, and laughter, and even sense when they’re tired or excited. It’s about getting to know people on a deeper level.
Chats can be set to “friends only” or “friends-of-friends,” creating a cosy social atmosphere with shared context and accountability. No randoms, spammers, or follower seekers here.
Changing from Followers to Friends
Live audio isn’t going away; it remains a core part of Clubhouse. However, Chats offer a versatile tool for community builders, enabling new conversations without the need for extensive preparation or moderation. It’s all about depth over reach.
Clubhouse is also shifting from a “follow” model to a “friend” model. This change emphasizes the importance of real friendships over accumulating followers. Existing followers won’t lose their connections; they can create a House for their followers right from their profiles.
The motivation behind this pivot is clear. Clubhouse witnessed a significant drop in engagement as pandemic restrictions eased. Whether this new direction can bring back the buzz it enjoyed in 2021, when it attracted millions of users and a multi-billion-dollar valuation, remains uncertain. Clubhouse, seemingly aware of the challenges, concluded its announcement with a touch of caution, stating, “It’s a big bet, and we hope we’re right…”
