Tag Archives: GOOGLE

Android, Mobile

Samsung Galaxy S25 Series Debuts with Enhanced Galaxy AI Features

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Samsung‘s new flagship series – the Galaxy S25 series – is doubling down on Galaxy AI. The new series of flagship smartphones brings several enhancements to Galaxy AI and a whole new level of personalisation that make it even more compelling than ever.

Samsung Galaxy S25 Series Launch 40

Same Galaxy Design with Some Big Changes

Let’s talk about the design and specs before we jump into the juicy Galaxy AI details. The Galaxy S25 series will come with three variants as always. There will be the vanilla Galaxy S25, the Galaxy S25+ and the Galaxy S25 Ultra. Samsung is breaking away from its norms a little bit this year by kitting all three variants with 12GB of RAM. Yep – the Galaxy S25, Galaxy S25+ and Galaxy S25 Ultra will have the same amount of RAM. The whole Galaxy S25 series will be coming with the Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy. When it comes to the display, all variants will be coming with a Dynamic AMOLED 2X panel. The Galaxy S25 will be sporting a 6.2-inch FHD+ display, the Galaxy S25+ will have a 6.7-inch QHD+ display while the Ultra will have a larger 6.9-inch QHD+ display.

Samsung Galaxy S25 Series Launch 48

When it comes to cameras, we’re seeing a familiar setup for the S25 and S25+. Both variants come with a triple camera setup with a 50-megapixel wide sensor with an f/1.8 aperture and 85˚  field of view (FOV), a 12-megapixel Ultrawide sensor with an f/2.2 aperture and a 120˚  FOV and a 10-megapixel telephoto camera with 3x optical zoom, an f/2.2 aperture and a 36˚  FOV. Up front is a 12-megapixel sensor with an f/2.2 aperture and an 80˚  FOV.

The Galaxy S25 Ultra is getting a slight improvement in its camera setup with a brand new 50-megapixel ultrawide sensor with an f/1.9 aperture and a 120˚  FOV. Aside from this, we’re seeing Samsung stick to a 200-megapixel wide sensor with optical image stabilization, an f/1.7 aperture and an 85˚  FOV. This is complemented by a 50-megapixel Telephoto sensor with 5x optical zoom, OIS, an f/3.4 aperture and a 22˚  FOV and a 10-megapixel telephoto sensor with 3x optical zoom with OIS, an f/2.4 aperture and a 36˚  FOV. Up front is the same 12-megapixel selfie camera as the S25 and S25+.

Samsung Galaxy S25 Series Launch 36

Under the hood, the S25 is running on a 4,000mAh battery while the S25+ has a larger 4,900mAh battery. The Ultra, on the other hand, has a 5,000mAh battery. The S25+ and S25 Ultra support 45W fast charging while the vanilla S25 supports 25W fast charging. Fast Wireless Charging 2.0 and Wireless power sharing is also supported across the board.

Design-wise, the series inherits a lot of the design cues from the S24 series. However, the S25 Ultra is taking a huge departure when it comes to design language. The S25 Ultra is saying good bye to the curved display and opting for a more flat approach. It also adopts the same design cues that have now become signature of the Galaxy S series with rounded edges for better structural integrity. The Ultra continues to have a titanium build while the S25 and S25+ continue to use Armour Aluminium. Samsung is also promising seven years of updates with seven generations of OS updates with the S25 series.

Galaxy AI Gets Personal with NOW Brief and Samsung’s Personal Data Engine

Samsuing’s Galaxy AI is being super charged with the Galaxy S25 series. Across the board, Galaxy AI and its features are becoming more personal and better. Google powered services like Circle to search and Music search are getting a much needed update that allows your Galaxy S25 series smartphone to give you better contextual information. Circle to search will now be able to quickly recognise phone numbers and more on your screen. Gemini also takes center stage with better contextual information.

Samsung Galaxy S25 Series Launch 15

Samsung’s One UI 7 is pushing AI features forward with a huge upgrade when it comes down to personalisation and contextual information. It also allows you to interact even more naturally with the smartphone with Gemini. This is thanks to Samsung’s new Personal Data Engine. This new feature allows your S25 series smartphone to leverage information it gathers to give you more relevant and personalised information.

Of course, when it comes to personalisation, the question of data privacy is front and center. Samsung leverages Knox Vault to store, isolate and secure data used for personalisation. Data gathered for personalisation is also processed on-device. However, certain features may necessitate uploading some information to online modals for the feature to work. This is fortified even further with post-quantum cryptography which comes with the S25 series. However, Samsung allows you to opt out of all personalisation in the settings altogether.

Samsung Galaxy S25 Series Launch 06

One of the highlights of the new S25 series is Samsung’s NOW Brief. The new feature takes Samsung’s Brief feature and supercharges it with contextual and personalised information. The new NOW Brief will give you relevant details when you need it. It will learn your interests and schedule to do this. It also takes things to the next level with the NOW Bar which will appear on the lockscreen of your Galaxy S25 series device. This also extends to routines making integrating the feature a even more simple and essential to a core Galaxy experience.

On top of that, One UI 7 will also bring improvements to features like Call transcript, Writing Assist and Drawing Assist.

Pricing & Availability

The Samsung Galaxy S25 series will be available for pre-order starting on 23 January 2025 until 13 February 2025. Pre-orders of the new flagship series will be entitled to offers worth up to RM1600. You can even get a double storage upgrade worth up to RM600. If you pay with your CIMB bank card, you’ll also get an extra RM400 off. Pre-registration for the S25 series will also get you an e-voucher for up to RM600 off your order.

Prices and colourways for the S25 series are as follows:

ModelStorageRRP (USD)Malaysian RRP (RM)Colour Availability
Galaxy S25 Ultra1TBUSD$1,659.99RM7,799Titanium Silverblue
Titanium Gray
Titanium Whitesilver
Titanium Black  

Online Exclusive: Titanium Jadegreen
Titanium Pinkgold
Titanium Jetblack
Galaxy S25 Ultra512GBUSD$1419.99RM6,599
Galaxy S25 Ultra256GBUSD$1,299.99RM5,999
Galaxy S25+512GBUSD$1,119.99RM5,599Navy
Icyblue
Mint
Silver Shadow  

Online Exclusive: Blueblack
Coralred
Pinkgold  
Galaxy S25+256GBUSD$999.99RM4,999
Galaxy S25512GB–RM4,599
Galaxy S25256GBUSD$859.99RM3,999
Business, Feature, News

Breaking Down Social Media Licensing in Malaysia: What You Need to Know

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If you’re a Malaysian netizen who spends a significant amount of time scrolling through feeds and engaging with online communities, a recent development might have piqued your curiosity – the introduction of social media licensing in the country. Let’s delve into the nitty-gritty of this new regulation, unpack its implications, and see how it might impact your digital life.

Social Media being regulated with obvious indications of Malaysia
AI-Generate Image

Towards Creating Better, More Accountable Internet Interactions

Imagine a vibrant online space brimming with information and connection, but also harboring the potential for negativity. That’s the reality of social media platforms, and Malaysia, like many countries, is grappling with how to maintain a healthy online ecosystem. The Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 (CMA) has been the cornerstone of regulating online activity in Malaysia. However, the rise of powerful social media platforms necessitated an update. Enter the social media licensing regime, introduced in July 2024 and enforced on January 1st, 2025.

The core objective of this licensing system is to promote responsible online behavior and empower authorities to combat issues like fake news, cyber-bullying, and the spread of harmful content. Think of it as a way to ensure these platforms operate within a framework that fosters a safe and positive online environment for everyone.

Who Needs a License?

Not all social media platforms are created equal. The licensing requirement applies specifically to platforms with at least eight million registered users in Malaysia. This threshold ensures regulations target the most influential and widely used platforms, which have a significant impact on shaping online discourse in the country.

The Licensing Process: What We Know So Far

While the Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), the regulatory body responsible for issuing licenses, has outlined the existence of a licensing process, specific details are still emerging. We know that platforms need to apply for an Application Service Provider Class License (ASP(C) License) under the CMA. This license acts as a formal agreement between the platform and the MCMC, outlining the platform’s responsibilities and compliance measures to address online safety concerns.

The Licensing Landscape: Who’s On Board and Who’s Not?

Now, here’s where things get interesting. As of January 2nd, 2025, some major players have already secured their licenses, while others are still in the process or have yet to apply. Here’s a quick rundown:

  • Licensed and Ready: TikTok and WeChat have successfully navigated the licensing process and are now operating under the new regulations. This means these platforms have demonstrated their commitment to complying with Malaysian online safety standards.
  • In the Process: Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, has reportedly initiated the process of obtaining a license. This suggests that these platforms are working towards compliance, although the exact timeline for approval remains to be seen.
  • Yet to Apply: Major platforms owners like Google (YouTube) and X (formerly Twitter) have not yet secured licenses. This raises some questions about their future operations in Malaysia. It’s important to note that this doesn’t necessarily mean these platforms are intentionally defying regulations; they might be in the process of gathering the necessary information or working through the application process.

The Stakes of Non-Compliance: What Happens Without a License?

The Malaysian government has been clear – operating a social media platform without a license is an offense punishable under the CMA. Penalties include hefty fines and even imprisonment for non-compliant platforms. Additionally, unlicensed platforms could face potential bans or restrictions on their operations within Malaysia.

The Unanswered Questions: A Work in Progress

As with any new regulation, there are questions that remain. One key uncertainty is the timeline for processing license applications. The fact that major platforms like Google and X haven’t yet secured licenses raises questions about potential delays and the impact it might have on users.

A person's hand holding a smartphone displaying social media and communication apps.
Photo by Pixabay

Another point of discussion is the specific content moderation policies that will be implemented by these licensed platforms. The MCMC has emphasized the need for platforms to establish clear guidelines to address hate speech, misinformation, and other harmful content, but the exact nature of these guidelines remains to be seen.

What This Means for You: The Road Ahead

The social media licensing regime in Malaysia represents a significant shift in the way online platforms operate in the country. The focus on online safety and responsible content creation is certainly a positive step. However, it’s important to remain vigilant and engaged in the ongoing discussion. As the licensing process unfolds and specific policies are implemented, users like yourselves will need to stay informed about how it might affect your online experience.

Stay tuned for further updates as the landscape of social media regulation in Malaysia continues to evolve. In the meantime, continue to utilize social media platforms responsibly and contribute to a positive online discourse. After all, a healthy online environment is a win-win for everyone!

Consumer Electronics, Lifestyle

[CES 2025] Samsung TVs Embrace Eclipsa Audio

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Get ready for a revolution in how you experience sound on your TV. At CES 2025, Samsung unveiled Eclipsa Audio, a groundbreaking 3D audio technology co-developed with Google. This isn’t just about adding a few extra speakers; Eclipsa Audio promises to completely transform the way we hear audio content on our TVs. Let’s dive into what Eclipsa Audio is, why its integration into Samsung TVs is a significant development, and how it could change the way you watch movies, TV shows, and even play games.

Samsung TVs and Displays CES 2025 Samsung Vision AI and Display Lineups dl2

What is Eclipsa Audio?

Imagine a world where sound doesn’t just come from your TV speakers, but surrounds you, creating a truly immersive experience. That’s the core idea behind Eclipsa Audio. This technology utilizes advanced object-based audio techniques to manipulate the location, intensity, and spatial effects of sounds. Here’s what that means in practical terms:

  • Precise Sound Positioning: Eclipsa Audio lets creators pinpoint the exact location of sounds within a 3D space. Imagine the roar of a jet fighter moving across the screen, or the pitter-patter of rain falling all around you. This level of detail aims to create a more realistic and engaging audio experience.
  • Enhanced Sound Intensity: Eclipsa Audio allows for dynamic control of sound intensity. A whisper at the back of the room can be made audible, while a character’s booming voice can have real impact. This creates a more nuanced and impactful soundscape.
  • Spatial Effects: Eclipsa Audio goes beyond just positioning and intensity. It allows creators to introduce subtle spatial effects that enhance the atmosphere of a scene. Imagine the hushed ambiance of a crowded marketplace or the echo of footsteps in a vast cathedral. These effects can create a more immersive and believable soundscape.

Why is Eclipsa Audio a Big Deal?

Current surround sound systems, like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, do a great job of creating a sense of immersion. However, they rely on pre-defined speaker layouts and channels. Eclipsa Audio, on the other hand, is more flexible. It can adapt to any speaker configuration, including traditional setups and even soundbars. This makes it a potentially more accessible format for a wider range of viewers.

Another key advantage of Eclipsa Audio is its focus on creator control. With this technology, content creators have more tools to sculpt the soundscape of their vision. Think about the difference between watching a movie in a standard theater versus a high-end Dolby Atmos theater. Eclipsa Audio aims to give directors and sound designers that same level of creative control, ultimately leading to a potentially richer and more immersive audio experience for viewers.

Samsung & Google Partner to Bring Eclipsa Audio to Your Living Room

The real magic of Eclipsa Audio lies not just in the technology itself, but in Samsung’s commitment to integrating it into their 2025 TV lineup. This includes everything from the Crystal UHD models to the flagship Neo QLED 8K models. This broad inclusion ensures that a wide range of Samsung TVs, regardless of price point, will have the capability to deliver Eclipsa Audio content.

2021 Soundbar MKT F05 11 1 4ch sound Dolby ATMOS DTS X PC jpg
Source: Samsung

Furthermore, Samsung isn’t going it alone. Their partnership with Google signifies a broader push toward making Eclipsa Audio an industry standard. Google is integrating Eclipsa Audio support into YouTube, one of the world’s largest streaming platforms. This means that starting in 2025, creators uploading content to YouTube will have the option to utilize Eclipsa Audio tracks alongside their videos. This ensures a ready source of Eclipsa Audio-compatible content for viewers who own Samsung TVs with the technology.

What This Means for You: A New Approach to TV Sound

The integration of Eclipsa Audio into Samsung TVs represents a significant leap forward in home entertainment technology. Here’s a glimpse into what this could mean for you:

  • More Immersive Entertainment: Imagine watching a movie where the sound truly surrounds you, creating a more realistic and engaging experience. With Eclipsa Audio, movies, TV shows, and even games could take on a whole new level of immersion.
  • Content Creator Freedom: Creators will have more tools to enhance their storytelling through impactful and nuanced sound design. This could lead to a new wave of content that truly pushes the boundaries of audio storytelling.
  • Accessibility Matters: Eclipsa Audio doesn’t require elaborate speaker setups. Even with traditional soundbars or TV speakers, Eclipsa Audio can potentially deliver a more immersive listening experience.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Eclipsa Audio

While Eclipsa Audio is a significant step forward, it’s important to remember that it’s still a new technology. The success of Eclipsa Audio will depend on several factors, including content creation, the hardware ecosystem and overall consumer adoption.

The availability of Eclipsa Audio content will be crucial for its widespread adoption. Google’s integration of Eclipsa Audio into YouTube is a promising start, but wider adoption by other streaming services and content creators will be essential. While Eclipsa Audio is designed to be flexible with different speaker configurations, dedicated Eclipsa Audio sound systems or soundbars could further enhance the experience. It remains to be seen how manufacturers will develop products specifically designed to take full advantage of this technology.

Ultimately, the success of Eclipsa Audio will depend on consumer adoption. If viewers embrace the enhanced audio experience, it could become a new standard in home entertainment.

The Bigger Picture: Sound as a Key Component of Immersive Experiences

Samsung’s integration of Eclipsa Audio highlights a growing trend in the entertainment industry: the increasing importance of sound as a key component of immersive experiences. For years, advancements in display technology have taken center stage, with higher resolutions, better color accuracy, and improved contrast. Now, it seems that audio is finally catching up.

Eclipsa Audio isn’t just about adding more bass or creating a wider soundstage; it’s about creating a more realistic and engaging audio environment that complements the visuals on screen. This shift towards more immersive soundscapes could have a profound impact on how we experience all forms of media, from movies and TV shows to video games and even virtual reality.

A New Era of Home Entertainment?

Samsung’s embrace of Eclipsa Audio, in partnership with Google, is a significant move that could potentially reshape the landscape of home entertainment audio. By giving content creators more control over sound design and making immersive audio more accessible to consumers, Eclipsa Audio has the potential to become a new standard in the industry.

While it’s still early days, the potential of Eclipsa Audio is undeniable. It represents a move beyond traditional channel-based audio, offering a more nuanced, realistic, and immersive sound experience. If content creators embrace the technology and the hardware ecosystem develops accordingly, we could be on the cusp of a new era in home entertainment audio. Keep an ear out for more news and real-world demonstrations as Eclipsa Audio makes its way into our living rooms in 2025. This is definitely one to watch (and listen to).

Business, Contributed

Ways AI Has Changed Digital Marketing In 2024

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This article is contributed by Dhawal Shah, Regional Managing Director and Co-founder of 2Stallions

The digital marketing industry in Malaysia continues to soar, with it raking in RM66.22 billion in the first half of 2024 alone, handily surpassing the full-year digital investment for 2023 of RM46.2 billion. This massive growth can be attributed to a wide range of factors; however, we must acknowledge that the widespread adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) in not only this sector, but across all industries, has definitely been a major contributor. As a matter of fact, AI has boosted every single industry’s revenue by 10% to 35% globally.

Chatbot,With,Ai,(artificial,Intelligence),,Search,Engine,,Businessman,Using,Laptop
Source: 2Stalliions via Shutterstock

With this in mind, let’s take a deep dive into the 6 ways AI has transformed digital marketing in 2024, as well as why all digital marketers should adopt it fully before it’s too late.

Content, Products, And Brands: Specifically For You

AI has completely supercharged companies’ abilities to deliver hyper-personalised content to users. With the power to analyse data such as browsing habits, past purchases, and even real-time interactions to tailor content to individual preferences, marketers can create dynamic content that changes based on a user’s profile or real-time behaviour, enhancing engagement.

In addition, AI-powered recommendation engines — think the suggestions you get on Amazon or Netflix — have become the gold standard. These systems are perfect examples for marketers to be inspired by, in terms of how tracking customer preferences can be used to suggest products and services that match their interests.

Night view of Piccadilly Circus in London with bright billboards and a red double-decker bus.
Photo by Negative Space

Getting Your Brand To The Top AI has radically transformed search engine optimisation (SEO). With AI tools like Google’s BERT and MUM models, we can now get a clearer sense of what people are searching for and tailor content to match their intent more accurately. AI also powers natural language processing (NLP) tools and generation models like OpenAI’s GPT, making it possible to create more human and authentic content—at a much faster pace.

Automated content creation is another leap forward, with AI tools generating blog posts, ad copy, and even social media content. AI doesn’t just speed up the content creation process for this area though; it’s smart enough to analyse real-time data and tweak messaging for better engagement. Whether it’s blog posts, social media updates, or ad copy, AI helps make sure your content resonates with the right audience.

Your Campaigns Can Run Themselves

AI has completely transformed the way we manage campaigns, from increased efficiency to improved idea generation and more . Imagine having tools that not only target the right audience but also optimise everything in real-time—from bidding strategies to audience segmentation and

performance tracking. With AI, it’s now possible to automate many aspects of campaign management, ensuring your ads always perform at their best.

And it doesn’t stop there. AI is also changing how programmatic advertising works, automating the entire ad-buying process across multiple platforms through specially designed programmatic algorithms. This ensures that your ads are reaching the right people at the right moment, helping you get the most out of your marketing budget and further maximising your return-on-investment (ROI).

Talk Chatbot To Me

The rise of AI-powered chatbots in customer support has been one of the most interesting developments in the marketing sector. As of 2024, chatbots have become smarter (literally), and are capable of handling more complex queries through natural language understanding (NLU), the better to deliver faster, more accurate responses. This trend has led to improved user experiences, with bots providing 24/7 support, personalising responses based on customer history, and escalating issues to human agents only when necessary, such as in the case of Google’s Customer Engagement Suite.

Hands typing on a laptop displaying the ChatGPT interface, showcasing AI technology.
Photo by Matheus Bartelli

In industries like retail and e-commerce, these AI chatbots are a game-changer. They can cut response times and improve customer satisfaction, all while gathering data that helps businesses refine their future marketing strategies.

Future-Powered Targets

AI’s ability to sift through massive amounts of data has brought predictive analytics to a whole new level. By 2024, marketers can anticipate trends, customer behaviour, and buying patterns with stunning accuracy. These predictive models allow businesses to hit the sweet spot when customers are most likely to engage or purchase, making marketing even more effective.

From predicting future purchases to knowing when a customer might unsubscribe, these insights can go a long way towards helping companies deliver personalised, timely offers that resonate with their audience, ultimately boosting marketing efficiency.

Visual and Voice Searches

Voice search is booming, and AI is at the heart of this shift. By 2024, over half of all internet searches are expected to be voice-based, thanks to AI-driven tools like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri. With conversational queries on the rise, businesses need to optimise their content to ensure they actively feature in voice search results.

AI is also revolutionising visual search. Tools like Google Lens now enable users to find products or information just by snapping a photo. This trend is pushing brands to rethink how they optimise their content, ensuring they’re ready for both voice and visual searches as they become even more integral to how people discover information.

Android, Mobile, News

Google Wallet Gets Even More Useful with “Everything Else” Section

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Google Wallet, the digital hub for storing payment methods, IDs, and transit passes, has just received a significant upgrade. The introduction of a new “Everything Else” section expands its functionality, allowing users to manage a wider range of digital essentials in a single, convenient location.

Launched in 2022, Google Wallet has quickly become a popular solution for contactless payments and digital identification; partially due to Android’s wide user base and adoption. It was seamlessly integrated with existing Android Pay functionality, allowing users to use credit and debit cards for quick and secure transactions. Additionally, the platform incorporated support for storing boarding passes, loyalty cards, and vaccine passports, streamlining the experience when on the go.

Google Wallet

Now, with the “Everything Else” section, Google Wallet takes another step towards becoming a one-stop shop for everyday needs. This new feature lets users scan and save a variety of documents, including event tickets, gym memberships, and even insurance cards. Google’s AI technology comes into play by automatically recognizing the type of document and suggesting relevant information for easy access and organization.

For users in Malaysia, Google Wallet is fully compatible, offering all the existing features including contactless payments, boarding passes, and digital IDs. The addition of the “Everything Else” section further enhances its usability, providing a central location to manage a wider range of important documents.

While the “Everything Else” section is currently limited to the US, users in Malaysia can still benefit from the existing features of Google Wallet. With its convenient organization and secure storage, Google Wallet continues to be a valuable tool for managing finances, identification, and other important digital items.

Business, Computers

Google Reverses Course: Third-Party Cookies to Remain in Chrome

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In a surprising turn of events, Google has announced it will not be phasing out third-party cookies in its Chrome browser as previously planned. This decision comes after years of back-and-forth discussions and industry concerns about the potential impact on online advertising.

For those unfamiliar, third-party cookies are small data files placed on your browser by websites you visit. These cookies track your browsing activity across different sites, allowing advertisers to build profiles of your interests and target you with personalized ads. Privacy advocates have long criticized third-party cookies for being intrusive and a violation of user privacy.

Black Google Smartphone on Box
Photo by Deepanker Verma

In 2019, Google introduced its Privacy Sandbox initiative, aiming to develop alternative methods for interest-based advertising without compromising user privacy. Initially, Google planned to phase out third-party cookies entirely by 2022. This deadline was subsequently pushed back to late 2024 due to technical challenges and industry feedback.

The potential removal of third-party cookies caused significant anxiety within the advertising and publishing industries. Many businesses rely on these cookies for targeted advertising, a major source of revenue. Concerns were raised regarding the effectiveness of alternative methods proposed by Google and the potential for a decline in ad revenue for publishers.

Google’s decision to maintain third-party cookies signifies a shift in its approach. In a blog post on July 22nd, 2024, Anthony Chavez, vice president of Google’s Privacy Sandbox initiative, stated, “We are proposing an updated approach that elevates user choice.” While details remain scarce, this suggests Google will focus on user control over how their data is used for advertising purposes.

Google Search Engine on Macbook Pro
Photo by Pixabay

While Google’s reversal on third-party cookies provides some clarity for advertisers and publishers, questions remain. The specific features of the “updated approach” emphasizing user choice have yet to be unveiled. It’s unclear how this new approach will balance user privacy with the needs of the advertising industry. Additionally, it’s uncertain whether regulatory scrutiny from governments will impact this decision.

For now, users can expect to continue seeing targeted ads based on their browsing activity. However, it’s possible that Google will introduce new features in Chrome that allow users more control over how their data is used. This could potentially involve enhanced settings for managing cookies or opting out of personalized advertising entirely.

The debate surrounding third-party cookies has highlighted the ongoing tension between user privacy and targeted advertising. While Google’s decision provides a temporary reprieve, the search for a more privacy-focused approach to online advertising will likely continue. The development and adoption of robust alternatives to third-party cookies will be crucial for shaping the future of the online advertising landscape.

Business, Lifestyle

RHB Bank Visa Cards Get Google Pay Compatibility

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Good news for RHB Bank customers! Thanks to the bank’s integration with Google Pay, you can now ditch your physical wallet for everyday transactions. This exciting announcement allows users to make secure and convenient contactless payments through their Android smartphones using their RHB Visa debit and credit cards.  

Screenshot 2024 07 26 at 11 09 50 Google Pay RHB Malaysia
Source: RHB Bank Malaysia

Previously, RHB customers were left out of the Google Pay party, with the platform only supporting a limited number of Malaysian banks. However, with this recent integration, RHB joins the ranks of other major financial institutions like Maybank, Public Bank, and CIMB, offering its customers a seamless mobile payment experience.  

Unlocking Convenience with Google Pay

Adding your RHB Visa card to Google Pay is a straightforward process. Simply open the Google Wallet app on your Android phone and navigate to the “Add Card” section. You can either scan your card using your phone’s camera or manually enter the details. Once your card is verified, you’re ready to start making contactless payments at any terminal displaying the Google Pay or contactless payment symbol.

Screenshot 2024 07 26 at 11 09 58 Google Pay RHB Malaysia
Source: RHB Bank Malaysia

Security remains a top concern for mobile payments. Google Pay utilizes multiple layers of security to ensure your financial information is protected. When you make a payment, a unique encrypted token is generated instead of your actual card number, minimizing the risk of fraud in case of data breaches. Additionally, Google Pay leverages your phone’s security features, such as fingerprint verification or PIN, for added peace of mind.  

Benefits Beyond Convenience

The integration with Google Pay offers several advantages for RHB customers:

  • Faster Transactions: Forget fiddling with cash or swiping your card. Google Pay allows for swift and hassle-free payments, keeping you moving through your day.
  • Enhanced Security: As mentioned earlier, Google Pay employs robust security measures to protect your financial information.  
  • Improved Tracking and Management: View your transaction history and manage your spending directly within the Google Wallet app.  
  • Rewards Integration: While not explicitly mentioned, some banks allow users to earn rewards points when making purchases through Google Pay. It’s worth checking with RHB to see if such benefits apply.

What About Other Card Types?

While the current integration focuses on RHB Visa cards, there’s no information on whether other card networks like Mastercard will be supported in the future. It’s advisable to keep an eye on RHB’s official announcements for any updates regarding additional card network compatibility.

Business, News

Google Launches Advertising Revenue Lab to Boost Malaysian News Publishers

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Google has announced the launch of the Google News Initiative’s (GNI) Advertising Revenue Lab Malaysia, supported by the Ministry of Communications. This comprehensive program empowers small and medium-sized news publishers in Malaysia, equipping local newsrooms with essential tools and knowledge to thrive in the evolving media landscape.

The Advertising Revenue Lab Malaysia is the latest addition to GNI programs aimed at enhancing digital advertising capabilities and fostering sustainable business models for publishers of all sizes. This initiative focuses on providing technical and product training, and hands-on support for optimizing websites, improving audience engagement, and increasing advertising revenue.

Google News Initiative
(From left) Nicholas Sagau – COO, Rev Media Group; Arianne Santoso – Government Affairs and Public Policy Manager, Google; YB Fahmi Fadzil – Minister of Communications; Adeel Farhan – News Partner Manager, Google; Rafiq Razali – Group MD, Media Prima Berhad

Google Newsroom Initiative’s Revenue Lab program aims to provide newsrooms with valuable insights and strategies to grow their digital advertising revenues, ensuring high-quality news delivery to communities across Malaysia. By participating in the Advertising Revenue Lab Malaysia, publishers will gain the necessary expertise to enhance their business models and thrive in the digital age.

YB Fahmi Fadzil, Minister of Communications, expressed his support, stating, “The Ministry of Communications welcomes and appreciates Google’s initiative to improve media sustainability in Malaysia. This collaboration marks a crucial milestone for the Malaysian news industry. By equipping news publishers with essential digital tools and expertise, we believe that their business models can be enhanced, ensuring a diverse, more sustainable and thriving local news ecosystem.”

Rafiq Razali, Group Managing Director of Media Prima Berhad, highlighted the positive impact of this initiative, “The launch of the Advertising Revenue Lab Malaysia by Google marks a positive development for Malaysian media as it empowers publishers to optimize their digital platforms and strengthen their advertising strategies. This initiative reflects Google’s ongoing dedication to innovation and supporting a free and open internet. We are confident that this will pave the way for a vibrant and sustainable future for news and content creators across the country, unlocking new opportunities for the Malaysian media industry and fostering a thriving digital ecosystem that will ultimately benefit content consumers.”

The Advertising Revenue Lab Malaysia represents a significant step towards empowering local publishers and ensuring that quality journalism remains accessible to all Malaysians. For more information and to apply for the Advertising Revenue Lab Malaysia, visit the program application page here.

The Google News Initiative (GNI) is Google’s effort to partner with news publishers worldwide to build a long-lasting, diverse, and innovative news ecosystem. GNI offers training, programs, funding, and products to journalists and newsrooms to help strengthen their work in the digital age.

By supporting the growth and sustainability of news publishers, the Advertising Revenue Lab Malaysia aims to foster a more robust and diverse media landscape in Malaysia, benefiting both content creators and consumers.

Business, News

Samsung Is Gearing Up for an XR Headset in the near Future

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Samsung teased its upcoming Extended Reality (XR) headset during the recent Galaxy Unpacked event. The device promises to be a major player in the burgeoning XR market, potentially going head-to-head with the likes of Apple’s Vision Pro and Play for Dream’s MR. It’s probably worth noting that this headset wouldn’t be Samsung’s first foray into AR and XR headsets – does anyone remember the Galaxy Gear?

Screenshot 2024 07 16 at 17 43 40 2 Samsung Galaxy Unpacked July 2024 Official Replay YouTube 1

As mentioned by TM Roh, the President of Samsung’s MX division, at Unpacked, the company is collaborating with Google on the software side, leveraging Google’s expertise to create a seamless and immersive user experience. This partnership hints at an Android-based XR platform, potentially offering a familiar and user-friendly interface for Android users.

Samsung has been tight-lipped about the headset’s technical specifications and design. However, based on industry rumours, we can expect a powerful processor capable of handling the demanding graphics required for a truly immersive XR experience. The headset might also feature high-resolution displays and advanced tracking technology for precise hand and eye movements within the virtual world.

Screenshot 2024 07 16 at 17 44 15 2 Samsung Galaxy Unpacked July 2024 Official Replay YouTube 1

While a consumer launch seems slated for March 2025, Samsung is planning a developer release much sooner. An early version of the headset, codenamed “Moohan”, is expected to be available to developers by October 2024. This allows developers to create and optimize content for the platform before the official consumer launch, ensuring a robust library of games, applications, and experiences available from day one.

The developer release expected later this year will be a key indicator of the platform’s capabilities and potential. Until then, we’ll have to wait with bated breath for more details about Samsung’s foray into the world of Extended Reality.

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Google’s US$2 Billion Investment: A Catalyst for Malaysia’s Digital Transformation

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Google’s recent announcement of a US$2 billion investment in Malaysia signifies a major milestone in the country’s digital transformation journey. This strategic investment not only positions Malaysia as a regional hub for cloud computing but also empowers its industries and workforce to embrace the transformative power of artificial intelligence (AI).

A Google Cloud Data Centre in Kuala Lumpur

The centrepiece of Google’s investment is the construction of its first data centre and Google Cloud region in Malaysia. Strategically located in Sime Darby Property’s Elmina Business Park in the Greater Kuala Lumpur region, this data centre will serve as the backbone for Google’s popular digital services like Search, Maps, and Workspace. These services are the lifeblood of countless individuals and organizations worldwide, including those in Malaysia.

Image 1 Artist impression of Google first data center and Google Cloud region in Malaysia
(Source: Google) Artist impression of Google’s first data centre and Google Cloud region in Malaysia

The impact of Google’s investment extends far beyond powering existing services. The new cloud region will provide high-performance and low-latency cloud services to businesses of all sizes, from established enterprises to budding startups. This will be particularly beneficial for public sector organizations seeking to leverage the efficiency and scalability of cloud computing.

For businesses concerned about data security and residency, Google Cloud offers robust features that meet the highest compliance standards. This empowers organizations to retain complete control over their data storage, ensuring adherence to specific data residency requirements. Furthermore, Google’s existing Dedicated Cloud Interconnect locations in Cyberjaya and Kuala Lumpur will provide even greater connectivity and security by enabling direct connections between an organization’s on-premises network and Google Cloud’s global network.

With the addition of the Malaysian cloud region, Google joins the ranks of leading cloud providers with a presence in 40 regions and 121 zones worldwide. This strategic placement in Southeast Asia strengthens Google’s position to cater to the growing demand for cloud services in the region. Malaysia’s central location makes it an ideal hub for businesses across Southeast Asia to leverage the power of Google Cloud.

Image 3 Actual Site for Google first data center and Google Cloud region in Elmina Business Park Malaysia
(Source: Google) Actual Site for Google’s first data center and Google Cloud region in Elmina Business Park Malaysia

Investments in Training and Upskilling

Recognizing the transformative potential of AI, Google is actively investing in programs to equip Malaysia’s workforce with the necessary skills. Two key initiatives are the Gemini Academy and the Experience AI program.

Gemini Academy: Empowering Educators with AI Tools

The Gemini Academy equips educators with the knowledge and tools to safely and effectively utilize generative AI tools like Gemini. This empowers teachers to boost productivity and explore innovative ways to enhance student learning experiences. Since its pilot phase in November 2023, the program has benefited over 600 educators in Malaysia. In collaboration with the Ministry of Education, Google aims to expand the program’s reach to 15,000 educators by the end of 2024.

Experience AI: Igniting Young Minds

Launched by Google DeepMind, the Raspberry Pi Foundation, and the Penang Science Cluster, the Experience AI program focuses on empowering educators with the skills and knowledge to deliver engaging AI lessons to students aged 11 to 14. Through interactive materials and tutorials, this program equips educators to confidently introduce students to the world of AI. The initial goal is to train 1,000 educators, ultimately reaching 10,000 students across Malaysia.

Jobs, Growth, and a Thriving Tech Ecosystem

Google’s investment is projected to create significant economic benefits for Malaysia. An evaluation by AlphaBeta (part of Access Partnership) commissioned by Google estimates the investment to contribute over US$3.2 billion to Malaysia’s GDP by 2030. This growth is further amplified by the creation of an estimated 26,500 jobs across various sectors. By fostering a vibrant technology ecosystem, Google’s investment aligns perfectly with Malaysia’s aspirations as outlined in the MADANI Economy Framework and the New Industrial Master Plan 2030 (NIMP 2030).

Image 2 Actual Site for Google first data center and Google Cloud region in Elmina Business Park Malaysia
(Source: Google) Actual Site for Google’s first data center and Google Cloud region in Elmina Business Park Malaysia

Google’s US$2 billion investment represents a significant commitment to Malaysia’s digital transformation journey. The construction of a data centre and cloud region, coupled with initiatives to promote AI literacy, positions Malaysia as a leader in the region’s digital future. This investment not only empowers businesses and individuals but also paves the way for a more innovative and technologically advanced Malaysia.