Tag Archives: 5G network

U Mobile and Huawei Strengthen Partnership for Enhanced 5G Network

U Mobile and Huawei Malaysia have entered into a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at bolstering the telco’s 5G network capabilities. The collaboration will see both companies work closely to enhance the overall 5G experience, accelerate the deployment of future Radio Access Network (RAN) technologies, and drive 5G adoption among both consumers and enterprises.  

Building on their existing partnership, U Mobile will leverage Huawei Malaysia’s global expertise to deploy advanced hardware and software solutions for the nation’s second 5G network. This strategic move is expected to significantly improve network efficiency and performance. Furthermore, the telco will tap into Huawei’s technical prowess to prepare for the integration of future RAN technologies, ensuring that its network remains at the forefront of technological advancements.  

U Mobile x Huawei

To foster greater 5G adoption, U Mobile and Huawei Malaysia will intensify research and development efforts. The collaboration will focus on understanding and addressing the evolving needs of consumers and enterprises, particularly in sectors with high demands for low latency and massive bandwidth, such as those in the enterprise segment.

“U Mobile is delighted to receive Huawei Malaysia’s support for the deployment of the second 5G network. As long-term partners, we have benefitted from Huawei Malaysia’s technologies and global expertise and we believe they will continue to play a critical role in helping us improve the 5G experience and also in our preparations to deploy future RAN technologies,” said Woon Ooi Yuen, Chief Technology Officer at U Mobile. “This will help us ensure that our infrastructure is capable of supporting rapidly evolving and high-performance needs, particularly from enterprises.”  

Zac Chow, Vice President of the Carrier Network Business Group at Huawei Malaysia, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “Huawei Malaysia looks forward to supporting U Mobile in their future developments. We want to set the stage for a better and more connected future. Our ultimate goal is to bridge the digital divide, and bring digital to every person, home and organisation.”

The latest MoU builds upon a previous agreement signed earlier this year, which focused on 5G innovation and business adoption. This ongoing collaboration underscores the commitment of both companies to driving Malaysia’s digital transformation and enhancing the overall telecommunications landscape in the country.

CelcomDigi Achieves Significant Milestone in Network Modernization Efforts

CelcomDigi has hit a significant milestone in its network integration and modernization journey. Just a year into the three-year project, the company has already surpassed the 50% completion mark, with upgrades completed in Penang and ongoing across the nation. This rapid progress positions CelcomDigi as a frontrunner in building Malaysia’s second 5G network.

CelcomDigi 5G for All

Datuk Idham Nawawi, CEO of CelcomDigi, expressed the company’s commitment to building a robust 5G ecosystem. He highlighted that by the end of 2024, over two-thirds of CelcomDigi’s network will be modernized, making it the largest and most advanced digital network in the country. This achievement paves the way for a swift and efficient deployment of a standalone 5G network.

The foundation for this rapid progress lies in CelcomDigi’s extensive 4G network, covering 97% of populated areas. The company has modernized all network components, including RAN, core, and transport, to be 5G-ready. This strategic approach enables simultaneous 4G upgrades and 5G activation, optimizing resources and accelerating deployment.

CelcomDigi’s partnership with over 100 tower and state-backed companies has been instrumental in achieving this milestone. This strong ecosystem, coupled with the company’s efficient execution, has positioned CelcomDigi as a prime candidate for building Malaysia’s second 5G network.

CelcomDigi CEO Datuk Idham Nawawi engaging with a customer on network service experience

Beyond network infrastructure, CelcomDigi is focused on driving 5G adoption. The company has launched a suite of 5G postpaid, prepaid, and home fibre plans, offering Malaysians access to high-speed internet. Additionally, the CelcomDigi AI Experience Centre (AiX) is at the forefront of 5G and AI innovation, with over 40 global tech partners collaborating on the development of new solutions.

To ensure an exceptional customer experience, CelcomDigi has established specialized teams known as Skuad 5G to conduct rigorous network testing and optimization. This dedication to quality has resulted in noticeable improvements in signal strength and network throughput, particularly in areas like Penang.

As CelcomDigi continues to advance its network modernization efforts, the company aims to deliver an unparalleled network experience to its customers while positioning Malaysia as a leader in 5G technology and innovation.

Malaysia’s Telco Landscape in Flux: Is Maxis Eyes U Mobile Buyout?

Malaysia’s telecommunications landscape could be on the cusp of a major shakeup, with Maxis Bhd., one of the country’s leading mobile operators, reportedly considering a buyout of its rival, U Mobile Sdn Bhd. This potential merger, if successful, would mark the second significant consolidation within the industry following the recent Celcom-Digi merger announced in May 2024.

Maxis U Mobile

Strategic Move to Consolidate Two Rivals on the Same Page

News of the potential Maxis-U Mobile deal emerged in mid-July 2024. Sources close to the matter claim that Maxis has expressed interest in acquiring U Mobile, with talks currently in their early stages. This move comes at a time when Malaysia is actively accelerating its transition to 5G technology, and both companies are vying for a strategic advantage.

The potential Maxis-U Mobile merger mirrors the recent Celcom-Digi union, which seeks to create a dominant player in the 5G space. With the Malaysian government aiming to roll out nationwide 5G coverage by 2024, consolidation within the telecommunications sector appears to be a strategic move for companies to strengthen their infrastructure and investment capabilities. Notably, U Mobile has been at the forefront of 5G development, collaborating with EDOTCO, a state-owned tower company, to spearhead the deployment of the second 5G network in Malaysia.

EDOTCO U Mobile MoU

While Maxis seems keen on acquiring U Mobile, the latter has reportedly rejected the initial buyout offer. U Mobile, currently the third-largest mobile operator in Malaysia with over 9 million subscribers, is said to be valuing itself at more than RM10 billion (approximately USD 2.3 billion). Interestingly, U Mobile has been contemplating an initial public offering (IPO) since 2021, suggesting an alternative path towards growth and expansion.

MCMC Ready to Oversee Merger

The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has expressed its readiness to establish guidelines should Maxis and U Mobile decide to proceed with the merger. The regulator’s focus will likely be on ensuring healthy competition within the market and preventing the creation of a monopoly that could stifle innovation and ultimately harm consumers.

The potential benefits of a Maxis-U Mobile merger are multifaceted. It could lead to a more efficient allocation of resources, reduced network duplication, and potentially lower prices for consumers. However, concerns exist about the potential reduction in competition, which could lead to higher prices and a lack of choice for users. Additionally, job losses within both companies due to potential redundancies remain a key concern.

The potential Maxis-U Mobile merger is shrouded in uncertainty at this point. While Maxis has expressed interest, U Mobile appears hesitant. Both companies have their own strategic considerations, and the MCMC’s regulatory oversight further complicates the picture. However, one thing is clear: if successful, this merger would significantly redraw the Malaysian telecommunications landscape.

It remains to be seen whether the Maxis-U Mobile deal will materialize. However, this potential consolidation serves as a reminder of the ongoing transformation within Malaysia’s telecommunications sector. As the race for 5G dominance heats up, further consolidation and strategic realignments within the industry are not out of the question. Whether these developments benefit consumers or stifle competition depends on the regulatory framework and the companies’ commitment to providing high-quality services at affordable prices.

U Mobile and EDOTCO Join Forces to Accelerate Malaysia’s Second 5G Network Rollout

U Mobile and EDOTCO, Malaysia’s leading mobile and digital services provider and telecommunications infrastructure company respectively, have inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to expedite the deployment of the country’s second 5G network. This strategic partnership leverages EDOTCO’s extensive tower infrastructure and expertise to empower U Mobile’s efficient and cost-effective rollout, aligning with the government’s dual network model.

Under the MoU, U Mobile gains access to EDOTCO’s vast network of towers, streamlining the identification of optimal locations with the aid of data-driven analytics and artificial intelligence. This collaboration aims to accelerate site acquisition and permit processes through streamlined collaboration with state agencies. Additionally, EDOTCO will ensure timely delivery of these sites, enabling U Mobile to bring its 5G network online faster and expand coverage across the country.

EDOTCO U Mobile MoU
From left to right – Wong Heang Tuck, CEO of U Mobile, Woon Ooi Yuen, CTO of U Mobile, Gayan Koralage, Director of Malaysia Business at EDOTCO, Adlan Tajudin, Group CEO at EDOTCO.

The partnership extends beyond infrastructure access. U Mobile and EDOTCO will explore various cost-efficient commercial arrangements for diverse infrastructure needs. This includes exploring options like “built-to-suit” sites for specific requirements, co-location opportunities at existing towers, and upgrades to existing infrastructure. Indoor coverage solutions are also on the table, ensuring comprehensive network reach within buildings. This joint effort aims to create a competitive offering that facilitates a timely and cost-effective 5G rollout.

Both parties acknowledge the significance of this collaboration. Woon Ooi Yuen, Chief Technology Officer of U Mobile, emphasizes how EDOTCO’s infrastructure footprint will strengthen their position as a key player in deploying the second 5G network. He highlights their commitment to delivering affordable and high-quality 5G services to Malaysians, unlocking the economic potential of this technology for consumers, businesses, and the public sector alike.

Gayan Koralage, Director of Malaysia Business at EDOTCO, echoes this sentiment. He views the partnership as a critical step towards accelerating Malaysia’s journey into a 5G-powered future. EDOTCO, as the nation’s largest tower company, is committed to working with mobile network operators like U Mobile to provide superior telecommunication solutions and shape the future of connectivity in the region.

This MoU builds upon a well-established relationship between the two companies. U Mobile has been a valued partner of EDOTCO since the latter’s inception in 2012, being their first non-Axiata commercial customer. Recently, U Mobile renewed its lease agreement with EDOTCO and is working on on-site consolidation plans, aiming to enhance network aesthetics while reducing operational costs. This further streamlines the 5G rollout process by leveraging existing infrastructure efficiently.

The U Mobile and EDOTCO partnership is a promising step towards a faster and more cost-effective deployment of Malaysia’s second 5G network. By combining U Mobile’s expertise with EDOTCO’s extensive infrastructure and focus on collaboration, Malaysians can expect to experience the benefits of 5G technology sooner and at a more accessible price point.

5G Finally Comes to Maxis Users with New Plans

Maxis subscribers rejoice! You can finally access 5G connectivity thanks to the new plans being rolled out today. The plans come after more than a year of Maxis holding out on signing the Access Agreement with Digital Nasional Berhad (DNB). In fact, the plans are literally being rolled out the day after an EGM with shareholders yesterday.

Maxis 5G

The new plans come with even more data and at more affordable prices than the previous ONE plans. Users who opt for these plans can access data up to 30 times faster on DNB’s 5G network with perks like access to new devices through Maxis’s Zerolution plans.

The All New Maxis Postpaid with 5G

Maxis’s commercial offerings are getting a total revamp. Brand new plans starting at MYR75 will be available to customers. New sign-ups can only opt for these plans while older Maxis ONE users will be able to upgrade via the Maxis app.

The all-new Maxis Postpaid plans start at MYR79 a month for 80GB of data on both 4G and 5G with an additional 40GB exclusively for use on 5G. A step up will get you 100GB for MYR109 with 50GB of additional 5G data. MYR139 gets you 120GB with an additional 60GB of 5G data while MYR169 gets you 150GB of data with an additional 75GB of 5G data. Maxis’s postpaid offerings cap out at MYR199 for 200GB of data with a 100GB additional 5G data. All the new plans come with unlimited SMS and calls.

Maxis Postpaid with 5G

Supplementary Lines & Maxis Family Plan Users

Users who are on Maxis’s supplementary lines will automatically get 5G access when the principal line is upgraded to the new 5G plans.

However, if you’re on the family plan, it doesn’t look like Maxis is updating their plans for 5G just yet. Instead, you’ll need to activate your 5G pass which will set you back MYR10 a month. Activating the pass does not get you any additional 5G data quota. It simply allows you access to 5G connectivity provided you have a supported device.

This activation is also done on a per-line basis, so for the Family Plan for 4 which costs MYR299 for 4 lines, you will need to fork out an additional MYR40 for 5G access on all your lines. The only consolation is that your first month is free.

Maxis Business Postpaid

Maxis business postpaid customers will benefit from the same plans as the regular Postpaid plans. In addition, they will be getting additional productivity data of up to 100GB and access to digital marketing solutions in their company subscription plans. New business postpaid customers and customers who opt to upgrade to the 5G plans can take advantage of an MYR10 rebate for up to 12 months.

Hotlink subscribers will be able to take advantage of a bevvy of new plans offered on both Hotlink Postpaid and Hotlink Prepaid. The plans not only come with perks like “roam like home” which gives you access to your home data quota in Thailand and Singapore and a MYR60 rebate spread across six months.

Hotlink 5G Plans 2

The new Hotlink Postpaid plans come with highspeed 5G internet access and unlimited calls and SMS. The new plans start at MYR30 for 2GB of internet and cap out at MYR70 for 70 GB. The highest tier – Hotlink Postpaid 70 – comes with an additional 35GB of 5G quota.

On the prepaid side of things, users can opt to choose from a wide selection of new 5G-enabled plans that come along with additional features like Hotspot connectivity, and cashback as part of the Malaysian Government’s Pakej Belia initiative. Plans start at MYR3 a day for 3GB of data. The monthly passes come in at MYR45 a month and MYR60 a month. the MYR45 pass comes with 50GB of data with a bonus 25GB of 5G data while the MYR60 pass comes with 70GB of data and a bonus 30GB of 5G data. The latter also comes with Roam from Home capabilities unlocking data connectivity in Thailand, Indonesia and Singapore with the same quota.

Hotlink 5G Plans 1

There are also monthly “Unlimited” plans available for Hotlink Prepaid users which offer speed-limited access to 5G. The MYR55 pass gives you 100GB of data after which your speed is capped at 12Mbps while the MYR45 gives you 80GB beyond which your speed is capped at 6Mbps.

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5G Edge & Security Deployment Evolution, Trends & Insights

The Heavy Reading 2022 5G Network Strategies Operator Survey provides insight into how 5G networks may evolve as operators and the wider mobile ecosystem continue to invest in 5G technology. The article will discuss some of the findings for 5G and edge computing, and conclude with a perspective centred around 5G security.

Drivers for 5G edge deployments

Current edge deployments are being driven by the healthcare, financial services and manufacturing industries. Heavy Reading says the next largest growth segment will be the media and entertainment sector, with 66% of respondents indicating they would deploy 5G edge services to these verticals in the next two years.

As the compiled data illustrates, the initial edge focus for service providers is to lower costs and increase performance. From a financial perspective, the main driver cited by 63% of those surveyed was to reduce bandwidth use and cost, followed by better support for vertical industry applications (46%) and differentiated services versus the competition (43%). 

high angle photography of buildings and road
Photo by Ibrahim Boran on Pexels.com

Two key criteria for edge deployments by smaller operators (less than $5bn in annual revenue) were improved resilience and application performance. Respondents cited that both these criteria had the effect of lowering costs and increasing customer satisfaction as service level agreements (SLAs) would be easier to fulfil. 

Larger operators bring focus to differentiated services and applications that would create new revenues. The reason higher significance was communicated compared to smaller operators (68% versus 28%) might be centered in the need to compete not only with other telco service providers, but also hyperscalers. This presents an interesting observation considering that some service providers are looking to partner with hyperscalers to overcome challenges with edge deployment.

Edge deployment options

Even though a variety of different deployment options for the edge can be utilized, the most favored one is a hybrid public/private telco cloud infrastructure, with 33% of respondents preferring this choice. This finding is not surprising, as it allows service providers a good mix between ownership and control, and also reach. 

As Heavy Reading points out, the cultural reluctance service providers retained when partnering with hyperscalers is now diminishing, primarily due to the speed at which hyperscalers can roll-out edge deployments.

a cell tower
Photo by Barnabas Davoti on Pexels.com

Deployments at the edge of the network, actually on-premises, is also an option chosen by some service providers, and seems to be targeted at private 5G opportunities. Multi-access edge computing (MEC) is seen as a key enabler for private 5G, with private 5G for mining being a key segment for US tier 1 service providers.

The use of container-based technology at the edge

Linux containers allow the packaging of software with the files necessary to run it, while sharing access to the operating system and other infrastructure resources. This configuration makes it easier for service providers to move the containerized component between environments (development, test, production), and even between clouds, while retaining full functionality. Containers offer the potential for increased efficiency, resiliency and agility that can boost innovation and help create differentiation. 

However, utilization of container-based technology remains a challenge for many service providers in the context of edge deployments. The survey confirms this complexity in the relatively slow pace of transition to containers, with almost half of respondents claiming less than 25% of their edge workloads are containerized today. This trend is forecasted to display greater adoption in the coming years, as over 50% of respondents expect 51% or more of their workloads to be containerized by 2025.

Other complexities with edge deployments

Cost and complexity of infrastructure is cited as the main barrier to current edge deployments (55% of respondents). Integration and compatibility between ecosystem components also scores high (49%). To address the integration and compatibility challenge, Red Hat has retained strong collaboration with partners focused on innovation for service provider networks. 

female engineer controlling flight simulator
Photo by ThisIsEngineering on Pexels.com

Through our testbed facilities we can enable the development, testing and deployment of partner network functions (virtual network function and cloud-native network function) for accelerated adoption and mitigation of risk. We continuously validate network functions to ensure they’ll work reliably with our product offerings. 

Additionally, Red Hat has developed numerous partner blueprints and reference architectures to allow service providers to deploy pre-integrated components from different vendors. Through our extensive portfolio, we provide a common and consistent cloud-native platform, accompanied by necessary functional components, orchestration and integration services from our partners for full operational readiness.

5G security concerns and strategy

Security of 5G networks has even great importance, primarily due to a more distributed network architecture, more capable devices, and a larger quantity of attack surfaces. The survey indicates a number of infrastructure capabilities that are important to service providers in a security context, including the use of trusted hardware and identity, and access management. In terms of securing the 5G edge, trusted hardware is considered a critical component for device endpoints.

As reinforcement to earlier points around container-based technology — container orchestration security and continuous image security scan and vulnerability analysis — also score highly. Trusted hardware and continuous image security scan and vulnerability are also the top two priorities for service providers’ 5G edge security strategies. They are also ranked highly as important capabilities for securing endpoints.

close up view of system hacking
Photo by Tima Miroshnichenko on Pexels.com

Zero-trust deployment and provisioning is also called out as an important factor. Zero-trust scores relatively highly in terms of consistent infrastructure provisioning for physical and virtual network functions (48%) and encryption of data in motion (46%). 

While the majority of service providers say they are confident their 5G security strategy is robust, there is concern outside of the US related to maturity and the ability to scale. These concerns are centered around the internal resources and related skill sets needed to effectively implement a security strategy that includes ever-changing risks, compliance requirements, tools and architectural modifications. 

Closing remarks

The edge expands opportunities and migrating toward it to capture new service and revenue opportunities, as well as network efficiencies, is a critical direction for service providers. With increasing demand and application use cases difficult to predict, technologies must be able to continually adapt to avoid inflexibility. 

Service providers must implement security strategies and processes using different capabilities to effectively mitigate security risks. And these strategies and processes must be adapted over time as technologies, threats and needs evolve. Centralized identity management and access control is key for cloud-centric security approaches, using the principle of least privilege to provide users with only the access they need.

U Mobile celebrates 5G network with Unlimited 5G Weekends

U Mobile celebrates the commercial launch of its 5G network by offering unlimited internet over the weekends.

U Mobile Prepaid U35 users can enjoy unlimited 5G weekends
U Mobile prepaid users can enjoy unlimited usage of 5G network over the weekends

Every Saturday and Sunday, prepaid customers of U Mobile can enjoy unlimited usage with uncapped speeds on both 5G and 4G networks. All customers of the Prepaid U35 plan and newly launched Prepaid U40 plan can enjoy this perk, starting from midnight every Saturday, ending at 11.59pm every Sunday. To enjoy the use of the 5G network, customers need to be using a 5G compatible device and be within 5G network coverage area. All other customers can of course enjoy the 4G network instead. To experience Unlimited 5G Weekends, customers will need to redeem it weekly via the MyUMobile app.

U Mobile has also announced the launch of the new Prepaid U40 plan. Priced at RM40 monthly, the new plan offers unlimited calls and data as well as unlimited hotspot for sharing data across multiple devices. Unlimited hotspot can be purchased as an add-on feature of other prepaid plans such as U25 and U35 for RM 5, lasting 30 days. Prepaid customers who want to experience the 5G network uncapped speeds can also purchase 5G Daily or Weekly Plans starting from just RM3 per day.

For more information on U Mobile Unlimited 5G Weekends and services, visit the official U Mobile website.

[Next@Acer 2021] Acer Launches 11th Generation Intel and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 30 Series Powered Predator Triton 500 SE and Helios 500.

Acer’s Predator Triton 500 received a lot of praises and accolades in its 2019 and 2020 reign. It was regarded as one of the best thin and light gaming PCs you can buy with money at the time. It is not hard to understand why it was the device of choice for plenty of gamers and content creators that are looking for an ultra-portable powerhouse.

The Helios 500 too, was regarded as one very capable high-end gaming notebooks with no compromises. It was the very definition of a fuss-free portable gaming experience for Predator. That also was about two years ago though.

That was 2019 and 2020 though. Since then, the world has moved on to a new platform. The world saw the launch of NVIDIA’s GeForce RTX 30 series late in 2020 and Intel’s brand new 11th Generation Core platform earlier in 2021. The Predators need an upgrade.

Predator Triton 500 SE

Acer’s Predator launched the Triton 300 SE last year. It was, in our humble opinions, a simple design study. The Triton 300 SE took up the idea of designing a gaming PC class with a timeless classic look. A simplistic design that is more futuristic than intimidating. At the same time, the sleek body has to contain a large power pool within.

The Acer Predator Triton 500 SE sits above the Acer Triton 300 SE, technically. If you put both devices together, you would struggle to find a difference too, at least visually, with good reason. Both feature the same shiny all-metal outer shell design. Rather than the usual matte black body that we are used to with gaming notebooks, the Triton 500 SE’s body is shiny and brilliant in sterling silver.

The Triton 500 SE is unique in more ways that one though. The odd shaped body houses an expansive 16-inch display with 16:10 display ratio. With up to 240Hz of refresh rate on tap from the WXGA resolution display, the Triton 500 SE give you a new perspective in gaming, obviously for the better. With 100% DCI-P3 colour coverage, the Predator Triton 500 is not only colour accurate for content creators, but also immersive for other forms of entertainment as well. With DTS:X audio, you can truly immerse yourself in Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and the upcoming Disney+ (for Malaysia).

To sustain 240Hz at high-resolution though, you need a lot of processing power. That processing power comes from an 11th Generation Intel Core i9 (up to) paired with an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080 mobile GPU (up to). You get to spec the Triton with up to 64GB (32GB DDR4 x 2) RAM to make quick work of Adobe apps. You even get to fit the Predator Triton 500 SE with up to two SSDs to ensure you always have extra space for your projects and games.

All of these are packed in a 19.9mm think all-metal body. Within the shell are three powerful 5th generation Aeroblade fans with Vortex Flow technology to keep the PC running cool and optimally at all times. The all-metal body also houses a large battery that could keep you running without plugging yourself to a wall socket for up to 12 hours. Of course, that is only possible with the help of NVIDIA Advanced Optimus technology.

Predator Helios 500

If light and portable is not what you are looking for, then raw power is what you want. You want the ultimate gaming laptop. You want the new Predator Helios 500.

The Predator Helios 500 that features a 17.3-inch display is more of a desktop replacement than a portable PC in its dress. In terms of design though, not much has changed from the older Helios 500 save for the arches on the back exhaust port. Keen eyed readers will also sport two power inlets.

That is because the Predator Helios 500 features an overclockable 11th Generation Intel Core i9 (up to) processor. Alongside the powerful processor is an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080 GPU (up to) and up to 64GB of DDR4 (32GB x 2) RAM for good measure. The need for speed does not end there though. You get to slot in a pair (2) of NVMe PCIe SSDs in RAID 0 for the fastest experience. If you really need more space, there is space for a SATA drive.

The powerful internals give life to the 17.3-inch display. That large display pushes 4K UHD 2160p worth of pixels to you. The Mini LED panel also pushes 120Hz for the smoothest high-resolution experience you can get in a gaming notebook. With VESA Display HDR 1000 certification and AUO AmLED’s full-array local dimming technology, the Predator Helios 500’s display is a class above its competitors.

You need a lot to cool this powerhouse of a notebook too. You need two large 5th Generation Aeroblade fans with Vortex Flow technology to keep air rushing through the entire system. Thankfully also there is Acer’s PowerGem technology to help keep things manageable. On top of the fans is a full RGB keyboard with individual backlight control via PredatorSense. The WSAD keys can also be replaced with MagForce keys for more precise controls.

Predator Connect X5 5G CPE Router & Connect D5 5G Dongle

Alongside the Acer Predator Helios 500 and Predator Triton 500 SE, Acer also launched two Predator networking tools. With modern games needing constant internet connectivity, it does kind of make sense for Acer to launch new networking solutions for gamers. Of course, they released one product for home, and one product for life on-the-go.

Source: Acer

The Predator Connect X5 5G router is the first Intel Killer-compatible 5G CPE in the world. With 5G, you get up to 4.7 Gbps internet speeds. This one router can also work with up to 256 devices, in case you want to host a LAN party with as many devices around. With Wi-Fi 6 capabilities, all 256 devices are going to have an uninterrupted access to the internet and network.

Source: Acer

The Predator Connect D5 5G Dongle is exactly what it sounds like. It is a gaming focused 5G enabled dongle with Intel’s Killer Network solution. Plug the dongle into any USB 3.1 ports and you unleash the power of 5G on your Predator laptop. That also means you are going to be able to work on DOTA 2 with your squad even if you are constantly on the road.

Pricing and Availability

The Acer Predator Triton 500 SE will be available in the North American region and China in June 2021 onward at US$ 1,749.99 (MYR 7,241*) and CN¥ 14,999 (MYR 9,728***) onward, respectively. It will be available in the EMEA region in July onward for EU€ 1,999 (MYR 10,098**) onward. There are no mentions of its availability in the local regions just yet.

The Acer Predator Helios 500 will be available in the North American region and China in August 2021 onward at US$ 2,499.99 (MYR 10,346*) and CN¥ 39,999 (MYR 25,943***) onward. EMEA gets it earlier in June 2021 onward though with prices starting from EU€ 2,499 (MYR 12,624**). Again, there are no mentions on its availability in the local regions just yet.

There are also no mentions on the availability and final pricing of the announced network products currently. We are keeping our ears close to the ground though. That said, watch this space. For more information on Acer’s latest products, do visit their website.

* Approximately based on exchange rate of US$ 1 = MYR 4.14 as per 27/05/2021 on xe.com

** Approximately based on exchange rate of EU€ 1 = MYR 5.05 as per 27/05/2021 on xe.com

*** Approximately based on exchange rate of CN¥ 10 = MYR 6.49 as per 27/05/2021 on xe.com