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.
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.
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.
TECHNOLOGY
inDrive is 4th most downloaded travel app in PH
2:11 p.m. February 12, 2026
WITH over four million installations in 2025 alone, inDrive ranked fourth among the most downloaded travel apps in the Philippines, according to market intelligence firm Sensor Tower.
This ranking underscores Filipino users’ growing demand for inDrive to expand beyond ride-hailing as it evolves into a mobility super app.
inDrive also remained the world’s second most downloaded ride-hailing app for the fourth straight year. It also climbed from fifth to fourth place among the top travel apps globally and topped this category in Pakistan, Peru, Egypt, Morocco, the Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Guatemala, Panama, and Zimbabwe.
Reflecting on this milestone, inDrive Founder and CEO Arsen Tomsky said, “This recognition reflects the trust people place in our platform and the continued dedication of our global team. As inDrive evolves into a super app, we remain focused on our core principles of fairness, transparency, and user choice while expanding access to services that make a meaningful difference in people’s daily lives.”
Full Speed Ahead as inDrive Evolves into a SuperApp
With inDrive growing its user base year-on-year, the app has begun expanding its services beyond ride-hailing in other key markets. Among these new offerings is inDrive.Ads, an in-app advertising platform. By generating new income streams, inDrive can keep its take rate among the lowest in the industry while supporting long-term sustainability for riders, drivers, and local communities.
Now live in 20 countries, including the Philippines, inDrive.Ads plans to expand to all global markets within this year. On inDrive.Ads, ads appear across various screens in the funnel and include multiple-dimension banners featuring graphics and animation, with transparent measurement tools built in.
Tomsky said in a statement, “Diversifying our business with a high-margin stream like Ads is an important step for inDrive. This new line gives us more flexibility to fund affordability at scale.”
Sofia Guinto, inDrive Philippines Country Representative, echoed similar sentiments, saying, “inDrive.Ads is our way of championing fairness and accessibility on all facets of our SuperApp. Through this, we can maintain fares that are both affordable for passengers and lucrative for our drivers and create equal opportunities for more people and brands.”
Beyond its global launch of inDrive.Ads, inDrive has also expanded into intercity transportation, courier and grocery delivery, and financial services in other global markets. These new services utilize artificial intelligence and predictive analytics to fix mapping gaps, improve ETA accuracy, anticipate user needs, and personalize solutions. Through these AI-powered offerings, inDrive continues to drive innovation while still giving users the freedom of choice in every ride.
Throughout the rest of 2026, inDrive will continue to update its features and grow its user base, becoming a true mobility superapp. Amid this shift, it ensures that all rollouts will be built around fairness, opportunity, and people’s real needs. For more updates on inDrive’s new offerings available in the Philippines, visit www.inDrive.com or follow @inDrive.ph on social media.

