Weaving the Past into the Future: Cebu Pacific Promotes Philippine Textile Arts

Cebu Pacific (PSE: CEB), the Philippines' leading carrier, is encouraging all Juans to discover more of the country's cultural heritage with the launch of its latest initiative to promote Philippine tourism, the QR Flight Codes, which are patterned after traditional weaves from various local communities. 

QR Flight Codes were made in partnership with Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Textile Research Institute (DOST-PTRI):

• Underscores CEB’s commitment to enhancing domestic tourism while shining a light on the artistry and cultural heritage of Filipino weaving communities. 

The QR Flight Codes highlights five unique weaving styles from different parts of the country:

• The intricate and nature-inspired markings of Ilocos Norte’s Binakol
• The elegantly-colored stripes of Occidental Mindoro’s Ramit
• The bright hues and iconic plaid design of Iloilo’s Hablon
• The bold and colorful checkered patterns of Antique’s Patadyong
• The striking geometric patterns and vivid colors of Zamboanga’s Yakan

Scanning these QR Flight Codes, which are strategically placed on billboards along major thoroughfares and airports across the country, as well as in select magazines, will allow travelers to learn more about these traditional weaves and discover additional attractions in the destinations where they originate. 

CEB collaborated with local weaving communities across the country to ensure that the history and significance of these fabrics are preserved in making the QR Flight Codes. These include the:

• Paoay Weavers of Ilocos Norte supported by Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU);
• The Hanunuo Mangyan of Occidental Mindoro supported by the Awati Ti Kape Community Development Program;
• The Baraclayan Weavers Association of Iloilo;
• The Patnongon Multipurpose Cooperative and Bagtason Loom Weavers Association of Antique; and the
• Yakan by Oriental Weaves of Zamboanga supported by MMSU.

To encourage travelers to learn more about these weaves while exploring the Philippines, CEB has launched an exclusive seat sale until January 15, 2025, allowing them to book flights to all domestic destinations for as little as PHP 199 one-way base fare, excluding fees and surcharges. The travel period for this seat sale is January 4 to June 30, 2025.

CEB operates in 35 domestic and 27 international destinations spread across Asia, Australia, and the Middle East.  

Book your flights now at bit.ly/CebuPacificSale. 

Follow Cebu Pacific Air's Social Media Accounts:

Facebook: CebuPacific Air

X: @CebuPacificAir

Instagram: cebupacificair

Sony Exhibits at CES® 2025

To create a future filled with Kando together with creators: Showcasing its innovative technologies and initiatives to maximize the value of content IP under the “Creative Entertainment Vision”.

Hiroki Totoki, Sony Group Corporation's President, COO, and CFO, spoke at the company's press conference on Monday, January 6. He introduced a number of foundational initiatives leading to Sony's “Creative Entertainment Vision” alongside a diverse array of speakers, including new solutions that enable creative freedom, such as a new vehicle processing system, and the most recent solutions for spatial content creation. In addition to introducing anime initiatives to expand the fan community, Sony highlighted projects for transforming game IP into visual works, co-creation with music artists, and new location-based entertainment experiences as ways to broaden the world of game IP from multiple perspectives. Among these is the production of an anime series. The release month for season two of the drama series "The Last of Us," the launch of a new manga app called "Crunchyroll Manga," and the game "Ghost of Tsushima: Legends" were all revealed.

Sony also discussed the most recent developments in the evolution of sports entertainment with guest speaker Roger Goodell, Commissioner of the United States National Football League. In addition, Sony Honda Mobility unveiled its EV "AFEELA 1," which will begin accepting orders in 2025, as an example of mobility innovation.

Totoki concluded the press conference by emphasizing that Sony's “Creative Entertainment Vision” entails creators, partners, and Sony colleagues collaborating to create infinite realities for everyone, sparking imaginations and generating a boundless sense of Kando.

Sony’s press conference at CES 2025 can be viewed on its official YouTube channel: URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IV95SMpTW-M 

Press Conference speakers (In order of appearance)

• Hiroki Totoki (President, COO and CFO, Sony Group Corporation)
• Neal Manowitz (President and COO, Sony Electronics Inc.)
• Roger Goodell (Commissioner, National Football League)
• Yasuhide Mizuno (Representative Director, Chairperson and CEO, Sony Honda
• Mobility Inc.)
• Jonny Slow (CEO, Pixomondo)
• Thaisa Yamamura (Head of XR Business Development, Sony Electronics Inc.)
• Atsuhiro Iwakami (President, Aniplex Inc.)
• Rahul Purini (President, Crunchyroll)
• Ravi Ahuja (President and CEO, Sony Pictures Entertainment)
• Asad Qizilbash (Head of PlayStation Productions)
• Ashley Brucks (President, Screen Gems)
• Neil Druckmann (Studio Head and Head of Creative, Naughty Dog)

Booth Overview

Dates: Tuesday, Jan. 7 to Friday, Jan. 10, 2025

Main Exhibits

Based on Sony's “Creative Entertainment Vision,” a long-term vision for where the company wants to be in ten years, the exhibition will highlight the latest technologies and initiatives to unleash creator creativity and maximize IP value. The booth is organized around Sony's Creative Entertainment Vision's three phases: "Creativity Unleashed," "Boundaries Transcended," and "Narratives Everywhere." It also includes an artistic representation of Sony's vision for the future of creation, in which content is created and expanded through creator collaboration.

• New Vehicle Processing System that Utilizes Virtual Production: “PXO AKIRA”

This exhibit introduces "PXO AKIRA" for the first time, a new cutting-edge system that transforms the traditional method of shooting vehicles by improving safety, lowering costs, and maximizing creative freedom. PXO AKIRA combines an advanced robotic camera crane, a custom-built motion platform, LED volume technology, and an integrated digital twin tool to provide an all-in-one solution for filming vehicles with Virtual Production in any environment. Furthermore, the exhibit will showcase a 3D reconstruction tool that perfectly complements PXO AKIRA, providing the capability to capture real-world environments and convert them into immersive 3D digital backgrounds.

• “XYN™” Integrated Software and Hardware Solution Designed to Support the Creation of Spatial Content

Sony Corporation launched "XYN™," an integrated software and hardware solution for creating spatial content. "XYN" uses proprietary algorithms to accurately capture and reproduce objects, human motion, and backgrounds in real-world spaces, allowing for efficient reproduction in a 3D Computer Graphics (CG) production environment and the creation of flexible workflows. Attendees can try out products and solutions that are currently in development at the booth.

For more information on Sony Corporation’s press release and the concept video, visit:

Press release: https://www.sony.net/corporate/information/news/202501/25-001E/

Concept video: https://youtu.be/WPBmlGIiAOE

• LEGO® Horizon Adventures™ Brings the Music of mxmtoon Alive

LEGO® Horizon Adventures™ is a playful and light-hearted story inspired by the world of Horizon, created entirely from LEGO elements. The theme song was written and produced by mxmtoon extends the Horizon franchise in an innovative way, releasing a teaser for the music video at CES. The video makes use of assets created for the game, which were expanded into animated content using Epic Games' Unreal Engine.

This project is an incredible collaboration with mxmtoon's music that brought together the talents of several teams, including Guerrilla, The LEGO Group, Pixomondo, and Sony. Visitors to the booth will be able to play the game, see a preview of the music video, and watch a behind-the-scenes look at the creative and production process.

• Experience based on the theme “Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Infinity Castle”

Aniplex Inc. is a global entertainment company that plans and produces video and music works, primarily in the animation genre; game planning and development; theatrical production and distribution; and merchandise planning, production, and sales.

Visitors to the booth can participate in experiences themed around the anime series Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba, which is based on the manga by Koyoharu Gotoge published under SHUEISHA's JUMP COMICS and has over 150 million copies in print. The animation is created by ufotable. The exhibit will include a photo booth that recreates the poster for Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Infinity Castle, the first of a trilogy of films set to be released in theaters worldwide in 2025. 

• Immersive Location-based Entertainment Concept based on “The Last of Us”

Sony is looking into ways to increase the value of content IP by creating a proof-of-concept for location-based entertainment that incorporates technologies such as video, audio, and haptics to give creators new avenues for expression. This future immersive entertainment concept showcases the suspenseful action-adventure game "The Last of Us" with high-definition video, 3D sounds, and olfactory technologies.

The exhibition is also being presented on the online platform "Sony Square."

URL: https://square.sony.com/ces2025/

Images from Sony at CESⓇ 2025 can be downloaded here.

For details of the announcement regarding “AFEELA 1,” please visit the Sony Honda

Mobility website: https://www.shm-afeela.com/en/

About Sony Electronics (Singapore)

Sony Electronics (Singapore) is responsible for the marketing and sales of Sony products in Singapore. It also handles export business for Sony products from Singapore to various parts of Asia. Since establishing our presence in Singapore in 1973, we have grown steadily over the years to become a leader in the electronics market. For more information on Sony’s products and services in Singapore, please visit http://www.sony.com.sg/

About Sony Corporation

Sony Corporation is a wholly owned subsidiary of Sony Group Corporation and is responsible for the Entertainment, Technology & Services (ET&S) business. With the mission to “create the future of entertainment through the power of technology together with creators,” we aim to continue to deliver Kando* to people around the world. For more information, visit: http://www.sony.net/

*Kando is a Japanese word that roughly translates to the sense of awe and emotion you feel when experiencing something beautiful and amazing for the first time.

HUAWEI Brings Effortless Productivity Right at Your Fingertips with the New HUAWEI MatePad 11.5

With the refreshed HUAWEI MatePad 11.5, Huawei continues to push the boundaries of tablet technology to provide a useful, all-around device. The HUAWEI MatePad 11.5 was officially unveiled at the HUAWEI Product Launch event in Dubai, and it is designed to meet the needs of young, modern users.

The Huawei MatePad 11.5 was first available in 2024. This year, HUAWEI updated the innovative tablet device with new systems and features, bringing effortless learning to users' fingertips. The HUAWEI MatePad 11.5 is now available in two stunning colors: Isle Blue and Space Grey, and it delivers powerful performance in a sleek and lightweight design.

Lightweight and Extremely Portable with Metal Unibody

The HUAWEI MatePad 11.5 is a sleek, stylish, and highly functional device that boasts a stunning minimalist design and cutting-edge engineering. The tablet, weighing only 499g and measuring a slim 6.85mm, has an integrated all-metal unibody that reflects Huawei's commitment to aesthetic excellence. The device is available in two colors: Isle Blue and Space Gray, and was designed using an anodizing process that not only increases durability but also creates a refined texture that is resistant to wear and smudges.

The tablet provides a wider, more immersive viewing experience thanks to its impressive screen-to-body ratio, which is achieved by removing the plastic support for the tablet's frame. This feature was borrowed from Huawei's flagship tablet models. The HUAWEI MatePad 11.5 features an innovative Cavity Slot Magnetic (CSM) antenna design that seamlessly integrates the metal body while providing superior Wi-Fi signal performance, avoiding the common design compromises found in metal-bodied devices. 

Bright, Crisp, and Eye-Friendly Visuals with PaperMatte Display

The HUAWEI MatePad 11.5 redefines visual and writing experiences with its 11.5-inch HUAWEI FullView Display, which has a 2200 x 1440 resolution and a refresh rate of 120Hz. Its PaperMatte Display, made with Nanoscale Anti-Glare Etching Technology, reduces reflections and provides comfortable, paper-like visuals even after extended use. The Huawei MatePad 11.5 has received TÜV Rheinland Reflection-Free Certification, TÜV Rheinland Paper-Like Display Certification, and SGS Low Visual Fatigue Certification, highlighting the eye-friendly properties of its PaperMatte Display, which reduces eye strain. This makes the HUAWEI MatePad 11.5 an excellent choice for reading, writing, studying, and even creative tasks.

The Color eBook Mode on the tablet enhances users' reading experience by replicating the richness and vibrancy of physical books using HUAWEI's advanced color-mapping algorithm. This is perfect for graphic novels, magazines, and picture books. When used with the 3rd generation HUAWEI M-Pencil, the PaperMatte Display on the HUAWEI MatePad 11.5 simulates pen-on-paper feel by combining subtle friction and vibration for a tactile writing experience.

Exceptional Productivity with HUAWEI Notes and PC-Level WPS Office Suite

The HUAWEI MatePad 11.5 elevates note-taking with advanced features from the upgraded HUAWEI Notes, which now includes real-time audio synchronization. HUAWEI Notes supports Multi-Note Opening, which allows users to easily switch between multiple notes, making it ideal for students reviewing their notes before a test. The One-Touch Split-Screen feature allows for side-by-side comparison, which boosts productivity during study or work sessions.

Handwritten notes and audio recordings can be synchronized in real time with the Note Replay feature. For exact context, this enables users to click on a note and immediately play back the corresponding audio. Collaboration is made simple by seamless sharing, which allows users to quickly edit lecture notes or project ideas that have been shared. This improves efficiency and streamlines workflow for both students and young professionals.

The HUAWEI MatePad 11.5 provides a PC-like experience through native apps like PC-level WPS Office. This overcomes the limitations of mobile applications, providing users with a PC-like productivity experience without the added weight of a laptop or PC. The device's Floating Multi-Window feature allows for multitasking and intuitive window management, while Multi-Screen Collaboration enables the tablet to function as a second screen and seamlessly transfer files between devices.

Enhanced Convenience with Long-Lasting Battery and HUAWEI Accessories

The Huawei MatePad 11.5 boosts users' convenience and productivity by combining a long battery life with a variety of accessories. Up to 10 hours of local video playback and more than 60 days of standby time are provided by its robust 7700mAh battery. Additionally, it supports 22.5W fast-charging, which allows the device to be fully charged in 125 minutes. 

Aside from the third-generation HUAWEI M-Pencil, the tablet also supports the HUAWEI Smart Keyboard. When combined with these accessories, the tablet provides an intuitive and highly efficient experience tailored to users' work, study, and creative requirements. The third-generation Huawei M-Pencil includes advanced system-level features like FreeScript for handwriting directly onto apps, Select and Annotate for efficient editing, and Annotate for simple file review and editing. These features provide a paper-like writing experience, making writing tasks more precise and satisfying. 

The detachable HUAWEI Smart Keyboard enhances the tablet's productivity features by providing PC-level typing. Its 1.5mm key travel ensures a smooth, responsive typing experience even after extended use. It includes shortcut keys for easy navigation, similar to those found on a laptop. These tools, combined with the long-lasting battery, turn the HUAWEI MatePad 11.5 into a complete, portable productivity hub.

The new HUAWEI MatePad 11.5 will be available exclusively online this January 17. Early birds can collect vouchers worth PHP 600 on Shopee, Lazada, Tiktok and HUAWEI Online Store from January 10 to February 28. Vouchers are redeemable from January 17 to February 28.

Stay tuned to official HUAWEI channels to know the latest updates on the HUAWEI MatePad 11.5’s launch. To learn more, visit Huawei’s official website or social media accounts (Facebook | Instagram).

About HUAWEI Consumer BG

HUAWEI's products and services are available in more than 170 countries and are used by a third of the world's population. Fifteen R&D centers have been set up in the United States, Germany, Sweden, Russia, India and China. HUAWEI Consumer BG is one of HUAWEI's three business units and covers smartphones, PC and tablets, wearables and cloud services, etc. HUAWEI's global network is built on over 30 years of expertise in the telecom industry and is dedicated to delivering the latest technological advances to consumers around the world.

For more information please visit: this page.

Enchanted Kingdom wraps 2024 with recognitions from DOT and DepEd

Enchanted Kingdom, the Philippines' first and only world-class theme park, received the Filipino Brand of Service Excellence (FBSE) Champion Award for Tourism Enterprises from the Department of Tourism (DOT) - CALABARZON as it prepares to celebrate its 30th year of creating and providing magical experiences and memories that last a lifetime.

EK President and CEO Mario O. Mamon, along with Head of Learning and Development Ms. Pauline Barreiro, accepted the award on December 3 at the Twin Lakes Hotel in Tagaytay City as part of the Tourism Excellence Awards 2024 and the Philippine Tourism Awards Regional Recognition ceremony.

“Through this very relevant program, we have been able to provide even more world-class, enchanting, educational and entertainment experiences to our guests of all ages - embodying the unique brand of Filipino service excellence. As we at Enchanted Kingdom prepare to celebrate our 30th anniversary, we shall endeavor to continue our mutual support, partnership and collaboration with DOT especially in CALABARZON to uplift Philippine tourism service standards locally and globally in the years to come.” ~Mario O. Mamon, EK President and CEO 

As of 2024, EK had trained 99% of its more than 800 Cast Members (employees) through the FBSE program. Furthermore, the premier theme park intends to extend the aforementioned training to its partner agencies and tenants by 2025.

Partner in Education

Meanwhile, EK was recognized as one of the long-standing education partners who have consistently supported the Department of Education (DepEd) during the Pasasalamat at Pagpupugay (Partners Appreciation and Recognition Event) on December 16. 

The event celebrates and recognizes partners' support and collaborative efforts on various DepEd priority educational programs. EK has been supporting Brigada Eskwela for ten years and has helped to improve 11 classrooms in various elementary schools in Santa Rosa City, Laguna. 

Magical Year of Tourism Excellence

Beyond providing magical experiences for guests of all ages, Enchanted Kingdom serves a greater purpose by contributing to the growth of the tourism industry and its surrounding community.

The Provincial Government of Laguna (PGL) recognized EK's outstanding achievement and excellence in company operations and management at the 2nd Laguna Stakeholders Business Forum in August. The local government commended EK for its significant contribution to the province's economic development and competitiveness. 

During the Laguna Business Summit in March, EK was also recognized by the PGL as an Esteemed Industry Partner for its valuable contribution to the province's tourism and industry development. The recognition highlighted EK's commitment to excellence, as evidenced by prestigious international awards such as the Best Retail Merchandise Display from the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions' (IAAPA) Brass Rings Award.

Good Corporate Citizenship and Fostering Inclusivity

In March, the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) Biñan-West Laguna District recognized EK as the Top 3 Taxpayer, recognizing their timely and efficient payment of correct taxes, which greatly contributed to the district's collection goal for the calendar year 2023. In September, EK was awarded the Top Taxpayer Amusement Park Category at the prestigious Lion Awards for Business of the City of Santa Rosa.

Finally, EK strengthened its commitment to inclusivity by becoming a Mother and Baby Friendly Establishment, as certified by the Santa Rosa LGU. EK was also recognized as an Autism Friendly Working Environment for individuals with autism spectrum disorder as part of the LGU Santa Rosa's celebration of National Autism Awareness Week 2024 in January.

“As we gear towards our 30th Anniversary of creating magical experiences and memories that last a lifetime, all the more that we commit to embracing Diversity, Exclusivity and Inclusivity. Ultimately, we want every guest regardless of gender, religion, culture, disability, and race to enjoy the park and accommodate their special needs in ways we can.” ~Dr. Cynthia R. Mamon, EK’s Chief Operating Officer

For more information about these awards and upcoming events and offerings, visit our Press Room at https://www.enchantedkingdom.ph/ek-press-room and EK’s official social media accounts for Facebook and Tiktok, and for Twitter and Instagram.

Acer Announces Predator Helios AI Laptops with New Intel Core Ultra Processors and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 50 Series Laptop GPUs

Acer today announced significant performance and feature enhancements to its powerful Predator gaming laptops, including the flagship Predator Helios 16 AI and Predator Helios 18 AI. Acer has also expanded its Helios Neo portfolio of midrange gaming laptops by introducing the all-new Predator Helios Neo 16S AI, which features a slimmer chassis without sacrificing performance. 

All devices are powered by up to Intel® Core™ Ultra 9 processor 275HX and next-gen NVIDIA GeForce RTX™ 50 Series Laptop GPUs, which deliver next-level gaming and AI performance. NVIDIA Blackwell-powered GeForce RTX™ 50 Series Laptop GPUs provide game-changing capabilities for gamers and creators. The RTX 50 Series, with its massive AI horsepower, enables new experiences and high-fidelity graphics. NVIDIA DLSS 4 provides multiple performance options, while NVIDIA Studio allows for unprecedented image speed and creativity. You'll also have access to NVIDIA NIM Microservices, which are cutting-edge AI models that allow enthusiasts and developers to create AI assistants, agents, and workflows that run at peak performance on NIM-ready systems. 

Helios devices are equipped with ultra-thin 6th Gen AeroBlade™ 3D fans and MagKey 4.0 mechanical switches. Both lines also received design updates, including OLED and Mini LED displays on their models. The Windows 11 Predator gaming laptops come with three months of PC Game Pass. PC Game Pass is designed for PC players and includes games like Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, Ara: History Untold, and EA Play titles. 

“Acer continues to push the boundaries of gaming in our latest Predator devices. Our commitment to innovating in the gaming sphere is evident in the integration of the latest silicon, the world’s thinnest laptop cooling fan blades, and the slimmest design of our powerful Helios Neo laptops, advancements that help deliver the performance and immersive experiences gamers desire.” ~James Lin, General Manager, Notebooks at Acer Inc.

The new Predator XB323QX gaming monitor features a 31.5-inch 5K display and NVIDIA G-SYNC® Pulsar technology for exceptional visual clarity and fidelity.

“The new Intel Core Ultra 200HX-series processors are purpose-built for the max performance and IO that enthusiast gamers demand, while delivering that experience at significantly lower power. Intel Core Ultra combined with Acer’s innovative system engineering results in amazing new Predator devices that raise the bar for gaming laptops.” ~David Feng, Vice President and General Manager, Client Segments, Client Computing Group at Intel.

Predator Helios 16 AI and Predator Helios 18 AI Gaming Laptops

Predator's latest and most powerful gaming laptops, the Helios 16 AI and Helios 18 AI, are ideal for gamers, early adopters, and tech enthusiasts looking for cutting-edge CPUs and GPUs, cooling technology, and stunning displays. The Predator Helios 16 AI (PH16-73) provides an exceptional balance of performance and portability. Gamers and professionals on the go who need a mid-sized powerful laptop for work and play will find it to be highly capable and easily transportable, making it ideal for taking to tournaments, LAN sessions, and work. The Predator Helios 16 AI (PH18-73) provides desktop-level performance, a larger screen, and high-quality immersive gaming experiences to die-hard gamers and tech-savvy consumers looking for cutting-edge technology for non-gaming applications. 

Both laptops offer up to an Intel Core Ultra 9 processor 275HX with NPU for AI-accelerated performance, up to NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5090 Laptop GPU and the latest NVIDIA DLSS technologies to deliver accelerated performance for premium graphical gaming and AI experiences. The NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5090 Laptop GPU also enhances the laptops with 150+ optimized AI apps on PC that use NVIDIA GPUs and RTX Tensor Cores to accelerate AI, including the top generative AI apps for LLMs, visual asset generation, and more. 

Both systems offer massive amounts of space for games, photos, and movie libraries; the Helios 16 AI can be configured with up to 64 GB of memory and up to 4 TB of PCIe Gen 5 storage, whereas the Helios 18 AI can support up to 192 GB of memory and 6 TB of PCIe Gen 5 storage. The Predator Helios devices take thermal technology to the next level with proprietary 6th Gen AeroBlade 3D metal fans, the world's thinnest[1] cooling fan blades at just 0.05 mm, boosting airflow by 20%[] compared to plastic fans, as well as liquid metal thermal grease and vector heat pipes to keep temperatures low.

The Helios devices also come with cutting-edge displays, providing stunning, bright and crystal-clear canvases for games and movies. The Helios 16 AI features an OLED WQXGA (2560x1600) display with a fast 240 Hz refresh rate. Meanwhile, the Helios 18 AI sports a 4K Mini LED WQXGA display, with a 120 Hz refresh rate, up to 1000 nits brightness, and a new dual-mode display feature that allows users to seamlessly switch to FHD resolution at 240 Hz via the PredatorSense application[ ]. They also support NVIDIA G-SYNC technology, NVIDIA Advanced Optimus and MUX Switch. 

The devices' per-key RGB keyboards use Acer's MagKey 4.0 swappable mechanical switches for the WASD and arrow keys, which improves trigger signal accuracy. With only 0.3 mm of key travel to register a press, the switches provide faster actuation and more precise trigger signals, resulting in faster response times for the critical edge. With an all-new design that includes dynamic RGB lighting on the top lid, rear frame, left edges, and right-side palm rest, these devices command attention in any gaming environment. 

Both laptops include the latest PredatorSense utility app, which allows users to fully control the system's performance, fans, and lighting. The Experience Zone offers easy access to AI-powered features, including Acer PurifiedView™ 2.0, Acer PurifiedVoice™ 2.0, and the new Acer ProCam™, which automatically records gameplay highlights. Both laptops feature DTS:X Ultra for high-quality, distortion-free audio; the Helios 16 AI has four speakers, while the Helios 18 AI has six. Lightning-fast connections are provided by the latest Ethernet E5000B, Intel Killer Wi-Fi 7, and two Thunderbolt 5 ports.

Predator Helios Neo 16S AI Laptop

The all-new Predator Helios Neo 16S AI laptop delivers massive performance in a slimmer form factor, striking the right balance between performance, precision, and style. It measures just less than 19.9 mm and is specifically designed to support demanding gaming and creative applications at a lower cost. 

The Helios Neo 16S AI (PHN16S-71) prioritizes performance, as it supports up to the Intel Core Ultra 9 processor 275HX with an integrated NPU for AI and gaming, and the new NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070 Ti Laptop GPU. It also includes the latest NVIDIA DLSS technologies for enhanced performance, image quality, and responsiveness, as well as up to 32 GB of memory and 2 TB of storage. 

Its stunning OLED WQXGA display has a fast 240 Hz refresh rate and a wide color gamut that supports 100% DCI-P3 for best-in-class visuals. It also includes NVIDIA G-SYNC technology, NVIDIA Advanced Optimus, and a MUX Switch. Advanced thermals include Acer's 5th Generation AeroBlade technology and liquid metal thermal grease on the CPU. The PredatorSense app gives players real-time control over system settings, while the Experience Zone lets them access a variety of AI-powered features. 

Predator XB323QX – 5K Powerhouse Monitor

The Predator XB323QX gaming monitor will captivate gamers looking for immersive gaming experiences. It has an expansive 31.5-inch 5K IPS display with a refresh rate of 144 Hz and a response time of 0.5 ms (GTG), as well as the option to switch to WQHD (2560x1440) resolution at 288 Hz with Dynamic Frequency and Resolution (DFR) technology and NVIDIA G-SYNC Pulsar, which supports stunningly clear images and buttery smooth action with 4x better motion clarity. With true 10-bit color depth, the monitor produces cinematic visuals with vibrant colors, which are further enhanced by 95% DCI-P3 or 99% sRGB color gamut support. It has DisplayPort 1.4 and two HDMI 2.1 ports, allowing for excellent connectivity.

The monitor's tilt, swivel, and height are all adjustable, allowing gamers to find the ideal viewing angle for any environment. It is also wall-mountable, which saves desk space. The integrated 2-watt speakers produce high-quality audio, and the Acer display widget allows for easy control and calibration. 

Price and Availability

Exact specifications, prices, and availability will vary by region. To learn more about availability, product specifications and prices in specific markets, please contact your nearest Acer office via www.acer.com.

Visit Acer’s Media Center for product images and specifications, or visit the Acer Press Room to see all announcements.

About Acer

Founded in 1976, Acer is one of the world’s top technology companies with a presence in more than 160 countries. The company continues to evolve by embracing innovation across its offerings which include computers and displays, while branching out to new businesses. Acer is also committed to sustainable growth, exploring new opportunities that align with its environmental and social responsibilities. The Acer Group employs over 7,800 employees that contribute to the research, design, marketing, sales and support of products, solutions, and services that break barriers between people and technology. Visit www.acer.com for more information.

Acer Launches New Nitro V Series Laptops, Expanding Its Essential Gaming Portfolio

Acer today unveiled its new Nitro V series in a variety of screen sizes, showcasing a potent lineup of entry-level gaming laptops intended to make AI-powered gaming more accessible. The Nitro V laptops are ideal for students, creators, and gamers looking for all-around performance. They combine exceptional responsiveness, stutter-free visuals, and ample storage to meet the demands of evolving AI features and applications. 

The new Nitro devices are available in a variety of configurations and screen sizes to meet the needs and preferences of a wide range of users. Additionally, they include three months of PC Game Pass. PC Game Pass is intended for PC players and includes games like Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, Ara: History Untold, and EA Play titles. 

Nitro V AI Gaming Laptops

The new Nitro V AI laptop lineup debuts with a range of models to choose from: the Nitro V 17 AI, Nitro V 16 AI, and Nitro V 14 AI. These gaming laptops are powered by up to the new AMD Ryzen™ AI 7 350 processor, based on the new “Zen 5” architecture. They enable smooth local AI capabilities, and are optimized for low power consumption, offering excellent battery life and accelerated responsiveness when gaming or creating. These Copilot+ PCs are powered by an NPU performing up to 50 AI TOPS of processing power and enable generative AI experiences, like Cocreator in Paint. They also come with AI-powered graphics, featuring up to NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4050 Laptop GPUs[[i]] with the latest NVIDIA DLSS 3.5 technologies for lifelike virtual scenes with ray tracing and up to 32 GB of memory and 2 TB of storage.

The Nitro V 17 AI (ANV17-61) gaming laptop features up to a 17.3-inch,16:9 QHD (2560 x 1440) display with up to a 165 Hz refresh rate and DCI-P3 100% color gamut range. The Nitro V 16 AI (ANV16-61) offers a WQXGA (2560 x 1600) resolution, up to 180 Hz and sRGB 100% support. The Nitro V14 AI (ANV14-62) provides up to a WQXGA resolution and 165 Hz refresh rate, and its white, pearl-like finish goes beyond traditional designs, making this laptop stand out in a market typically dominated by darker colors.

Acer Nitro V 15 Gaming Laptops

The New Nitro V 14 AI (ANV15-42) features up to an AMD™ Ryzen 7 8845HS processor, while the Nitro V 15 (ANV15-52) is powered by up to an Intel® Core™ 7 processor 240H, with dedicated AI acceleration capabilities. Its 15.6-inch FHD (1920x1080) panel includes a 180 Hz refresh rate, 3 ms response time, and 100% support for the sRGB color spectrum.

NitroSense and AI Features

The Nitro Sense key allows users to control the laptop's performance and customizations, with direct access to the control center and AI software suite via the new Experience Zone 2.0. Whether in a call or streaming in-game, Acer PurifiedVoice uses AI to block out external noises, while Acer PurifiedView keeps users at the center of all the action. 

Price and Availability

Exact specifications, prices, and availability will vary by region. To learn more about availability, product specifications and prices in specific markets, please contact your nearest Acer office via www.acer.com.

Visit Acer’s Media Center for product images and specifications, or visit the Press Room to see all announcements.

About Acer 

Founded in 1976, Acer is one of the world’s top technology companies with a presence in more than 160 countries. The company continues to evolve by embracing innovation across its offerings, which include computers and displays, while branching out to new businesses. Acer is also committed to sustainable growth, exploring new opportunities that align with its environmental and social responsibilities. The Acer Group employs over 7,800 employees that contribute to the research, design, marketing, sales and support of products, solutions, and services that break barriers between people and technology. 

Visit www.acer.com for more information.

Asia’s grandest dog show set to take place at Smart Araneta Coliseum

From January 9 to 13, the Smart Araneta Coliseum will host Asia's largest dog show, the Philippine Circuit 2025. 

This year's event features the first-ever National Grooming Team Competition, a game-changing addition that raises the Philippines' profile in the global grooming industry. Along with this competition, 17 world-class judges will oversee the All-Breed Championship Dog Shows, which will feature 96 breeds and 7,560 entries spread across 12 shows.

The event boasts impressive numbers, with daily entries reaching 1,890 and top breeds like the French Bulldog, Golden Retriever, and Pomeranian among the highlights. 

Get your tickets for as low as P100. To get your tickets please visit this link, https://www.ticketnet.com.ph/event-detail/PHILIPPINE-CIRCUIT-2025.

New year, new luck: Which Infinix HOT 50 Pro+ color best represents your style in 2025?

Nothing beats celebrating the New Year in the Philippines. The sky is filled with colorful fireworks, and families are enjoying a full spread of delicious food to celebrate the new opportunities and experiences that await them.

A year full of hope and ambition necessitates vibrant colors that complement the mood you want to create. The Infinix HOT 50 Pro+ Series features brand-new colorways that represent new beginnings and inspire confidence and creativity. The series features the elegant Glimmer Ladder Design, which blends glimmering color pairings and layered contracts. When combined with the phone's slim and sturdy 6.88" body, you'll feel ready to face whatever 2025 has in store for you. No matter which variant you choose, each HOT 50 Pro+ color will set the tone for your 2025:

Aurora-round | Around – For the Calm Seekers

Aurora Green exudes tranquillity, making it ideal for those seeking balance in the midst of life's hectic pace. This serene hue is exclusive to the HOT 50 Pro+ and complements its AMOLED display, which provides vibrant clarity and lifelike colors. This display enhances every moment, whether you're journaling your goals, meditating with relaxing playlists, or streaming soothing visuals.

The Aurora Green HOT 50 Pro+ also has Corning® Gorilla® Glass, which provides exceptional durability and protects your screen from scratches and drops. When combined with the NanoFlex Fiber Leather finish and the flowing contrasts of the Glimmer Ladder Design, this color represents balance and strength, making it an ideal companion for beginning 2025 with calm and confidence.

Red-y | Ready – For the Bold Dreamers

Rising Red radiates energy and confidence, making it the perfect choice for those ready to take bold steps and embrace daring opportunities. Available for the HOT 50 Pro+, this striking hue is paired with a 120Hz refresh rate, ensuring ultra-smooth visuals for gaming, fast browsing, and scrolling through your favorite social apps with unmatched fluidity.

The boldness of Rising Red isn’t just in its appearance—it’s in its performance. Equipped with a 50MP main camera, the HOT 50 Pro+ lets you capture vivid, detailed photos and videos that bring your moments to life. Whether you’re documenting achievements or exploring creative projects, Rising Red empowers you to approach 2025 with courage, ambition, and style.

Grow-some | Growth – For the Optimists

Blossom Pink represents growth, creativity, and optimism, making it an ideal choice for those looking to celebrate accomplishments and seize new opportunities. Blossom Pink on the HOT 50 Pro+ is enhanced by 33W Advanced Fast Charging, which ensures your device charges quickly and you're always ready to seize the day.

Blossom Pink on the HOT 50 Pro+ has Dualscape Glass, which adds a shimmering, modern touch that reflects its uplifting and elegant tones. Blossom Pink, paired with a 4-year long-lasting 5000mAh battery that keeps you connected and productive all day, embodies the spirit of forward momentum by combining functionality and effortless style.

Dear-me, Let Your Dreams Come True – For the Visionaries

Dreamy Purple represents creativity, ambition, and individuality, making it ideal for those who dare to dream big. Dreamy Purple in NanoFlex Fiber Leather complements the HOT 50 Pro+ 5G's 5G connectivity, which provides lightning-fast speeds for seamless streaming, rapid downloading, and staying ahead in today's fast-paced world.

Dreamy Purple for the HOT 50 Pro+ is available in Dualscape Glass, which provides a sleek and radiant finish that beautifully reflects light. The Glimmer Ladder Design enhances the layered tones, which symbolize limitless horizons, inspiring you to reach higher and achieve your boldest goals. Dreamy Purple in the HOT 50 Pro+ Series is more than just a color; it's a statement of innovation and a call to embrace your goals fearlessly.

Why the HOT 50 Pro+ Series is the Ultimate Gift

The HOT 50 Pro+ Series is more than just a smartphone; it's a celebration of uniqueness and the goals that define you. The HOT 50 Pro+ Series seamlessly blends style and sophistication, featuring premium NanoFlex Fiber Leather for a tactile, luxurious feel and Dualscape Glass for a shimmering, modern aesthetic.

Its features are designed to perform, including 5-year TÜV-certified fluency for smooth, dependable operation that adjusts to your fast-paced lifestyle. Each device is available in vibrant colors such as Dreamy Purple, Blossom Pink, Aurora Green, and Rising Red, making it a stylish extension of your personality and a reflection of your goals.

Whether you seek calm, boldness, optimism, or creativity, the HOT 50 Pro+ Series represents the energy you want to bring into 2025. It's more than just a smartphone; it's the ideal companion for beginning the year with purpose, inspiration, and limitless opportunities.

Shop the new Infinix HOT 50 Pro+ Series’ colorways via e-commerce sites Lazada, Shopee, and TikTok Shop, and concept stores and kiosks nationwide. The HOT 50 Pro+ is priced at P8,499, while the HOT 50 is P6,999.

 

For updates, like and follow the official Infinix Philippines Facebook page and Community page. For more information, visit www.infinixmobility.com.

About Infinix

Founded in 2013, Infinix is a trendy tech brand crafted for young consumers. With a presence in over 70 countries and regions, Infinix delivers cutting-edge technology, stylish design, and outstanding performance. Our product lineup includes smartphones, TWS earbuds, smartwatches, laptops, and smart TVs. In 2023, Infinix was recognized in Kantar and Google's top 50 Chinese Global Brand Builders Report and ranked sixth in Fast Company's World's Most Innovative Companies of 2024 in the Asia-Pacific sector. For more information, please visit: http://www.infinixmobility.com/.