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TECHNOLOGY

GCash, Heart Evangelista collaborate

January 19, 2024 8:30 p.m.

GCash, the country’s leading finance super app, brings a powerful start to 2024 with the launch of its newest endorser — international fashion icon, Heart Evangelista-Escudero.

The unveiling of Heart as the new face of GCash was announced together with the release of the brand’s latest digital film, set to take over our feeds. The film not only showcases Heart’s exciting partnership with GCash, but also demonstrates how GCash has made its way into her heart, being her go-to super app for easy, safe & secure transactions, whether it be online, in-store, or even abroad.

Inspired by her travels and experiences, Heart shared her anecdotes of the moments GCash saved her in times of need –from receiving a sweet gift from her loved ones by using the app’s Send Money feature, to shopping online for cute trinkets for her dog, Panda. She even talked about how the ease of the Scan to Pay feature when it comes to simple things, like buying kwek-kwek when the craving strikes, and of course, who could forget her delighted reaction when she successfully used her GCash Card for the first time to pay for a coffee run in Paris!

“For me, GCash has been a game changer. You can use it for so many things, and literally EVERYWHERE! From my local cravings, shopping finds and even now that I’m getting ready to head out for Fashion Week season, there is no limit when I’ve got my GCash with me. Ang galing diba? ” – Heart Evangelista-Escudero

Much like Heart, there are so many new things to discover and love about GCash! Apart from being able to send and receive money for FREE, and get free vouchers and discounts when paying online, thanks to the GCash Card, its users can transact seamlessly in over 200 countries — with lower foreign exchange rates vs. competitors, it instantly became one of her travel essentials!

The different scenes showcased in the brand’s new film were inspired by the star’s day-to-day life. In fact, Heart was heavily involved in crafting the script, and dressing herself in some of her signature pieces from her personal wardrobe, some of which we’ve seen all over social media!

“In my Heart, GCash is the best way to pay”

Quoting Heart’s ending line in her newest film, GCash invites its users to enjoy the best things life has to offer in the most convenient and secure way possible.

“Heart was really the perfect, and easy, choice for us when it came to developing this campaign. She gave a mountain’s worth of ideas from the very first time we met her and the team was left inspired! Her attention to every detail was key for us to develop a material that was unique but also very personal to her. We loved the way she was able to share her personal experiences with us in highlighting how her GCash has made her transactions easier, not only in the Philippines but all over the globe. ” – Neil Trinidad, GCash Chief Marketing Officer

GCash, the country’s no. 1 finance super app continues its mission to empower Filipinos to move towards financial progress. Through this new collaboration between Heart and GCash, users can only expect more to come in 2024 as they continue to open doors to a brighter future for all Filipinos, so that they too can say that GCash is the best way to pay.

Watch the full GCash short film produced with Heart through the official GCash page @gcashofficial on Facebook and YouTube.

TECHNOLOGY

Designed for style: HONOR X8d arrives in PH for only P15,999

3:00 p.m. March 22, 2026

LEADING global AI smart devices provider HONOR Philippines today lifted the curtain on the new HONOR X8d, the latest addition to its acclaimed X Series line-up. Crafted to deliver an optimal experience to users, the HONOR X8d is priced at P15,999. 

The new stylish smartphone integrates ultra-slim design, a robust 7000mAh battery, and stunning AI experience, representing HONOR’s dedication to provide well-rounded smartphones cater to the needs of consumers who desire a sleek, intelligent, and durable mobile device.  

“The HONOR X8d is designed for today’s generation—where style is a statement and value matters. We’re proud to offer a smartphone that delivers both, making premium aesthetics and reliable performance more accessible than ever,” said HONOR Philippines Vice President Stephen Cheng.

Ultra-Slim Design with Class-Leading Battery Life 

Introducing a 7.5mm ultra-thin and lightweight design, the HONOR X8d strikes a perfect balance between a smooth feel and elegant appearance. With advanced excimer technology and micro-nano textures, the body is extremely glossy and eye-catching, while the exquisite metal barrel adds extra embellishment to the back cover.

Powered by a large 7000mAh battery, the HONOR X8d provides price-level biggest 52 hours battery life verified by TÜV Rheinland and 6 years of endurance. The test data shows that the device can stand up to 31 hours of video playback on a single charge. With multi-point temperature monitoring, the battery shows great performance in temperatures from -20°C to 45°C, which allows it to work perfectly in various harsh condition. Additionally, the 45W wired HONOR SuperCharge can rapidly revive the battery for extended usage.

Fabulous AI Button for Brand-New AI Experience

Featuring a brilliant Instant AI Button, the HONOR X8d offers brand-new AI interaction through this subtle design. This physical side button enables users to quickly launch clean up and speed up commands and frequently used apps with a single press, providing much convenience in daily lives. Meanwhile, with a long press, users can activate more AI features such as Circle-to-Search, AI Subtitles, AI Writing, and Blur Private Info, delivering personalized and seamless user experience. Powered by the latest MagicOS 10 based on Android 16, the HONOR X8d carries various other intelligence features including Magic Capsule, Magic Portal, AI Memories, AI Settings Agent, and Google Gemini Assistant, making it the best partner for both work and life.  

Exceptional Durability with Comprehensive Protection 

Despite its extremely slim and lightweight body design, the HONOR X8d still showcases all-around drop resistance with SGS Premium Performance Certification of Drop & Crush Resistance, which ensures it can withstand drops from heights of up to 2 meters. Boasted with IP65 Water Resistance, the HONOR X8d can easily handle complex water environments including rinsing, splashing, and even high-pressure water guns.  This device has been tested to function after being submerged in water for up to 1 minute at a depth of 0.5 meters, making it a dependable companion in various settings and situations. Additionally, with Wet-Hand Touch Enhancement, users can still have smooth experience even with wet or greasy fingers.

AI-Powered Smartphone Photography Experience 

Packed with a stunning 108MP Ultra-Clear AI Camera, the HONOR X8d captures images with exceptional details and enhanced brightness, offering users both daylight precision and nocturnal refinement. With 3x Lossless Zoom, users can create stunning shots with diverse focal lengths, effortlessly creating different street vibes. With HONOR Connection, the HONOR X8d breaks the long-standing “drop-barrier” between different systems, enabling the device to share moving photo to iOS seamlessly. Additionally, the HONOR X8d integrates AI photography features like AI Eraser, AI Upscale, AI Cutout and AI Outpainting, which enable users to freely customize their image, streamlining photo editing on smartphones. 

Enhanced Hardware for Superior Experience

The HONOR X8d features a 6.77-inch OLED Display, which supports 1.07 billion colors, a high refresh rate of 120Hz, and peak HDR brightness of 3000nits, delivering vibrant hues and incredibly fluid interface with exceptionally sharp and clear viewing experience. The device also boasts 6 eye-care technologies, including 3840Hz PWM Risk-free Dimming, Circadian Night Display, Dynamic Dimming, Comfortable Dim-light Adjustment, Low Blue Light and E-Book Mode.

Powered by the Snapdragon 6s 4G Gen 2, the HONOR X8d offers users a new level of system smoothness and higher graphical performance. This power efficiency is complemented by HONOR’s innovative RAM Turbo Technology, which effectively provides a 16GB RAM equivalent experience (8GB physical + 8GB virtual). It ensures smooth performance even after extended use, allowing users to multitask and switch between apps effortlessly. Additionally, the HONOR X8d comes equipped with 512GB large internal storage at most, providing ample space for years of precious memories. 

Pricing and Availability

Catering to users’ diverse style preferences, the HONOR X8d is available in 3 captivating colorways: Light Blue, Velvet Black, Velvet Grey. Starting March 19 to 27, 2026, the HONOR X8d will be available for pre-order for only P15,999 with FREE HONOR Camping Light Speakers when you get from any HONOR Experience and Partner Stores. HONOR X8d is also available online via Shopee (https://bit.ly/Shop_X8d_PR), Lazada (https://bit.ly/Laz_X8d_PR), and TikTok Shop (https://bit.ly/TikTok_X8d_PR) with FREE HONOR Earbuds II.

Check out full specs of HONOR X8d here (https://bit.ly/Web_X8d_PR). In the meantime, for more exciting announcements, visit HONOR’s website www.hihonor.com, and follow HONOR Philippines on Facebook (Facebook.com/HonorPhilippines), Instagram (Instagram.com/honorph/) and TikTok: (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines) for exclusive teasers, launch updates, and big reveal.

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TECHNOLOGY

iProov study: Deepfakes shatter online confidence 

5:18 p.m. March 21, 2026

A NEW consumer study released today by iProov, the world’s leading provider of science-based biometric identity verification solutions, warns that deepfakes have triggered The Great Trust Recession, where digital authenticity has been undermined, and skepticism has reached unprecedented levels.

The research, which surveyed 2,000 individuals across the UK and the US in Q1 2026, shows that AI-generated impersonation is increasingly seen as a real-world threat undermining confidence in what people see online. Nearly half of respondents (48%) say they now question the authenticity of “almost everything” they encounter online, signaling a profound shift in consumer confidence. Consequently, establishing genuine human presence in digital ecosystems is now essential to thwart fraud, misinformation, reputational harm, and institutional distrust, and to regain certainty about what — or who — can be believed.

The breakdown in confidence is already evolving into commercial pressure: three-quarters (74%) of consumers say they would switch banks if a competitor offered guaranteed protection against deepfake-enabled fraud. This highlights how consumer allegiance is being impacted, with many willing to endure the inconvenience of switching banks to gain stronger safeguards against AI-driven impersonation. Younger adults are leading this shift: 41% of those aged 25 to 34 say they would switch immediately, compared with just 14% of those aged 65 and older, showing that even the most digital native generations are raising expectations for stronger safeguards.

At the same time, expectations of accountability are rising sharply. More than half of respondents (52%) believe banks should be legally liable for losses caused by deepfake-enabled fraud, reflecting growing demand for institutional responsibility in the AI era.

A Government Trust Gap Is Emerging

The study also highlights evolving expectations around digital public services. While the availability of online government platforms has grown, many consumers say stronger identity protections would increase their confidence. More than half (55%) report they would be more likely to use government services online if a secure biometric login were available. When given a choice, respondents also show openness to digital-first options: 43% say they would prefer a secure face scan via a mobile app, compared with 30% who would choose an in-person appointment.

“AI has blurred the line between real and fake in digital ecosystems, and too many organizations are caught off guard. This study highlights a major shift in consumer sentiment, showing that generative AI is actively undermining the credibility of the institutions people have traditionally relied upon,” said Andrew Bud, founder and CEO of iProov. “Deepfakes are quickly undermining the trust at the heart of the digital economy, ultimately compelling consumers to change their behaviors and, importantly, who they are willing to do business with.”

Find the Fake Game

The stakes behind this research are easier to understand when experienced firsthand. iProov’s new interactive game, “Find the Fake,” challenges participants to identify a single AI-generated deepfake hidden among a grid of six seemingly real social media profiles. It’s a deceptively simple exercise and a revealing one. Try it for yourself at https://quiz.iproov.com/quiz2/en.

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TECHNOLOGY

Logitech G brings premium wireless performance to PH with the G325 LIGHTSPEED

4:18 p.m. March 10, 2026

Logitech G has released its latest addition to the G3 Series, a powerful gaming headset designed to support seamless gameplay at home or on the go.

The G325 LIGHTSPEED Wireless Gaming Headset brings together premium features such as immersive 24-bit audio, flexible connectivity, superior comfort, and long-lasting battery life, all packed into one affordable and versatile device for modern gamers.

Richer and More Dynamic Audio Performance

Made with the modern gamer’s needs in mind, the G325 is equipped with 32 mm audio drivers and 24-bit audio over LIGHTSPEED wireless to deliver rich, detailed, and dynamic sound. This enhanced depth and clarity allow players to detect subtle in-game cues more accurately while enjoying fuller bass and more immersive soundscapes during every match.

For players who prefer tailored audio settings, a 10-band EQ and game-optimized presets allow users to personalize their sound profile based on genre, title, or personal preference. These features can be easily accessed through the Logitech G HUB software and the mobile app, giving gamers more control over how they experience their gameplay.

Comfort That Keeps Up With Long Gaming Sessions
The G325 features a flattering, modern close-fit headband design with breathable fabric materials that help keep users cool and comfortable during extended wear. The dual-layer memory foam ear cups provide a cushioned and secure fit, helping reduce pressure during long matches or casual listening sessions.

Gamers can also choose from three distinct color options (Black and  White) to complement their battle stations and personal playstyles. Meanwhile, its lightweight construction at just 212 grams supports hours of continuous use without unnecessary strain, making it suitable for both competitive gaming at home and everyday wear on the go.

Clear Communication With AI-Enhanced Voice Capture

In-game coordination is key in most competitive games. The G325 comes with a dual beamforming microphone system made to focus on the user’s voice while reducing surrounding distractions. Through an integrated  AI-powered noise reduction system, the microphone filters out common background sounds such as keyboard clicks, fan hums, and room noise to make every conversation sound crisp, natural, and clear during intense gaming moments.

Pro-Grade Wireless Freedom and Versatile Connectivity

Powered by Logitech G’s signature LIGHTSPEED wireless technology, the G325 delivers ultra-responsive and stable performance with an impressive wireless range of up to 30 meters. This extended range allows gamers to move freely around their space without worrying about signal drops or audio interruptions, keeping every session smooth and uninterrupted.

In addition to LIGHTSPEED wireless, the headset supports Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity for seamless switching between compatible PCs, consoles, and Bluetooth-enabled devices. With just a quick toggle, users can easily transition from gaming to music or calls, making the G325 a flexible audio companion for both play and everyday use.

Designed with Sustainability in Mind

Beyond its amazing lineup of premium features at an affordable price point, the G325 also reflects a more conscious approach to product design in line with Logitech’s global environmental efforts. 

The G325 is made with up to 43 percent post-consumer recycled plastics and comes in zero plastic packaging to reduce environmental impact across its life cycle. An optional 80 percent battery charge limit is also available for users to help extend battery longevity over time and promote more sustainable everyday use.

These thoughtful design choices for the G325 reinforce Logitech’s long-term sustainability direction while simultaneously giving users access to top-tier gear to enhance their gaming experience.

The G325 LIGHTSPEED Wireless Gaming Headset is built for players who demand performance-driven gear that looks great, feels comfortable, and is easy to use right out of the box. Combining immersive audio, reliable wireless performance, and thoughtful design, the G325 makes high-quality gaming experiences more accessible for those ready to level up their setup.

Logitech’s latest gaming headset is priced at  PHP 5495  and is available on Shopee and Lazada, and Logitech Authorized Retail Partners and Gaming Specialists. To learn more about the product and upcoming product releases, follow Logitech G on Facebook. You may also visit http://www.logitechg.com  for more product offerings.

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