TECHNOLOGY
How smart homes are changing our lives
By Chris Connell, Managing Director for Asia Pacific at Kaspersky
Smart home technologies have long ceased to be something new or surprising. Today, the idea of smart home appliances or switches isn’t from a cyberpunk scene, but rather an actively emerging reality.
For example, the report from Berg Insight revealed that the number of smart homes in Europe and North America reached 102.6 million in 2020.
What was once a collection of single and separate devices, smart homes are turning into fully-fledged smart systems that can supply coffee on time, adjust the temperature, and monitor the security of your house while you are away. All of this is possible thanks to the digitalization of an increasing number of devices. Kaspersky has developed a list of the most interesting benefits which the modern smart home can provide to become a fully-fledged personal assistant or protector.
Safety
Smart home technology can take the safety of your home to the next level. And we aren’t just talking about alarms. Modern cameras, motion sensors, and even smart door locks will help turn your home into a real fortress, and immediately send a message to your smartphone if something happens.
One of the most obvious examples is the installation of a home video surveillance system connected to the internet. Such cameras will work 24/7 and allow owners to look at what is happening anywhere in the house through an app on a smartphone. Sometimes such cameras have a motion sensor – if a camera sees something moving (be it a cat, a dog, or an intruder) it records the file and sends it to the server. Your device then receives a notification so that you can react as quickly as possible and perhaps prevent your property from being broken into.
The smart home has also made it possible to reinvent door locks. In order to secure your home as much as possible, the easiest option is to stop intruders from being able to get through the door. However, modern locks have moved on from being just a mechanism. Today, they can do much more than just prevent intruders from getting inside. For example, they can send you a notification when someone walks in and out, or create access codes for you or those who work in your home (nanny, housekeeper, gardener, etc.).
All of these solutions can turn your house into a high-tech home, but even smart defenses need protection. To ensure your defender has a shield, solutions have been created that help protects not only individual devices from being hacked but the entire IoT ecosystem.
Peace of mind
There are always numerous small things to worry about around the house – have I turned off the iron or closed the door? Who will water the flowers while I am on vacation? Even a small doubt is enough to ruin an evening out with friends or a short vacation with a loved one.
Smart devices can provide much-needed reassurance in such situations. Smart water leak detectors, for example, which react to contact with water, can help you to stay calm and relaxed. Sensors can be installed next to batteries, pipes in the bathroom and in the kitchen. The devices are not only able to monitor the water level, but also determine the level of humidity in the room: if you are suddenly flooded from above, you will know immediately even if you are not at home.
The same situation is true with smart smoke detectors, which can warn of danger before it is too late. If wiring suddenly lights up in the house or an open fire remains burning, the sensor will immediately react.
Another important assistant – a smart socket – will also warn you if you forgot to turn off the iron whilst in a rush. Seeing the notification on your smartphone, you can remotely disconnect the device from the power no matter where you are.
Comfort
The time has finally come when you can allow yourself to truly relax and leave some of your household duties in the hands of technology. By automating some types of furniture, we can take comfort and health care to a new level.
For example, Eight Sleep has developed a bed equipped with sensors capable of monitoring the user’s sleep quality based on 15 parameters, including the duration of REM and deep sleep phases, and heart rate patterns. This allows you to choose the optimal time for going to bed and waking up.
A smart bed will gently wake up the owner, catching the moment when the body is ready to rise, and create a pleasant morning environment, for example, turn on calm music or a light vibration, turn on the light or start the coffee machine via voice command.
Besides sleep comfort, a smart home can also make cooking much easier, enjoyable and fun. For example, the EYWA Kitchen Smart Screen is a small panel, no larger than a standard wall cabinet door. It easily fits into any kitchen, making it an indispensable helper. It can:
⦁ Find recipes for dishes online;
⦁ Make a list of required ingredients;
⦁ Independently purchase them online;
⦁ Order delivery at a specified time;
⦁ Turn on household appliances and set timers;
⦁ Distract children with a cartoon;
In order to safely use such smart solutions which are integrated into your daily activities (including cooking, shopping, choosing content), you need to ensure the safety of the devices themselves. Otherwise, attackers could get into your home network and gain access to personal data through convenient smart boards or switches.
The first and simplest step may be to change the default device password to a more complex one – but resist the temptation to copy the password from other accounts. If you have lots of devices and are finding it difficult to remember all the passwords, you can use a special solution to protect the ecosystem of the smart home. This will not only keep passwords safe, but also warn you if the password has already been compromised.
Pet help
In addition to caring for the safety and comfort of home owners, the IoT market seeks to make life easier and better for pets. According to research, the size of the PetTech market in the United States has reached $5.5 billion – this includes connected collars, smart doors, feeders, fences, toys etc.
Some of the most popular smart pet devices are for drinks and feeders. They help to not only control nutrition and prevent overeating, but also allow you to leave pets for a while at home alone, without worrying that your cat is hungry or has knocked over a bowl of water. Of course, in some extreme situations cats can also turn on survival mode – for example, a cat was recently discovered eating cardboard and drinking from a leaking tap for 52 days. However, no owner would like to repeat this scenario for their pet.
If everything is covered with feeding and drinking, what else can manufacturers of smart devices develop to support pet care? How about chatting with your dog?
Start-up FluentPet, has come up with a device for human-dog communication. The device is a panel with buttons labeled with different symbols. With its help, the company seeks to test the hypothesis that animals can express their emotions and desires by clicking on pictures.
Another example is smart animal houses which are designed to improve comfort for pets. They are equipped with intelligent temperature control and environmental sensors that regulate the temperature inside depending on the number of degrees outside. In addition, the houses can monitor the health of the animal, tracking and recording pet activity and sleep data. All of this information can be read from the app in the smartphone in order to timely monitor the health of your pet.
Eco-friendly living
Besides comfort and safety, smart home technologies help make our lives more environmentally friendly by using resources more smartly – for example, using water and electricity in a more rational way.
For example, sensors can turn lights on and off in a room, depending on whether there are people there or not. Another option is smart heating, which will allow you to maintain certain microclimate parameters in each room. For example, if everyone leaves for school and work in the morning, the system can reduce energy consumption and increase it later in the day when everyone is back.
However, in addition to controlling energy consumption, modern smart homes are also able to produce energy. For this, systems for the production of alternative energy are built in – such as solar panels, wind turbines or geothermal installations.
Depending on the location of the building, in some cases, even the energy of water – currents or tides – can be used. As a result, the smart home control center can not only control energy consumption but also monitor its production, as well as rational distribution.
Modern smart homes built from scratch include energy-saving technologies. Heat leakage and CO2 emissions from such buildings are minimal. Smart walls, roofs, and other building elements can inform the owner about their problems: the appearance of moisture or heat leaks. This allows you to promptly correct the defect that has appeared.
In general, the market for smart devices is actively growing and manufacturers of such systems are striving to digitize more and more elements of the house. This not only improves safety and comfort but also benefits the environment. As a result, smart homes are being transformed from a cluster of single, simple devices into true multi-layered digital ecosystems, which also require an appropriate level of protection.
TECHNOLOGY
All-new MacBook Neo launches at Power Mac Center
9:22 p.m. April 24, 2026
Premier Apple partner Power Mac Center (PMC) unveiled the all-new MacBook Neo in a fun and vibrant simultaneous launch in Greenbelt 3 and SM Megamall.
Customers who joined the launch received the event exclusive bundle including an AirPods Pro 2 and AirTag 4-pack, stackable with over P12,000 worth of freebies for those with qualified pre-orders. In addition, those in Greenbelt 3 and SM Megamall who lined up until 7PM also got a chance to win up to P600,000 worth of prizes (P300,000 per location).
While attendees were the first to access exclusive perks, PMC is extending its opening promotions over the coming days, ensuring more customers can take part in the excitement.
“We are taking Apple fans on a lifestyle journey worthy of the anticipation for the new MacBook Neo. With every device Power Mac Center launches, we make sure our customers know we stand behind their purchase, helping them choose better, set up faster, and get more out of what they’re upgrading to,” PMC Director for Marketing and Product Management Joey Alvarez.
Mac&Me: Easy to use and easy to own, Made for More
As the premier Apple partner in the Philippines, PMC extends its expertise to support customers, reinforcing how the Mac is made for more than ordinary, with powerful capabilities in completing tasks both for work and play.
Now available in all Power Mac Center stores nationwide, the MacBook Neo is easy to use and easy to own with these exclusive offers. Terms and conditions apply.
- Accessories: Enjoy up to 50% off on a wide selection of accessories until April 30, 2026. This offer is valid for straight payments only and is available with any MacBook Neo payment option.
- 1 Infinite: As a limited “double burn” offer (1 point = P2) from PMC’s loyalty program 1 Infinite, members can redeem up to 2,500 points (P5,000 off), with no minimum spend required. This offer is applicable to both device and accessory purchases and is valid from April 23 to 26, 2026 only.
- UpTrade: Score up to P4,000 in additional trade-in value when you trade in your MacBook Air (M2 or earlier) and upgrade to the all-new MacBook Neo or MacBook Air (M5) from April 23 to May 10, 2026. Offer available at all Power Mac Center stores nationwide.
- Mobile Care and Basecamp: Customers who purchase the MacBook Neo until April 30, 2026 can also receive a 90-day complementary software fix from Mobile Care Service Center, PMC’s official service arm, and free training for MacBook Neo + AI Toolkit for Beginners provided by Basecamp, PMC’s official training arm.
- To avail the free training, please register here <https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe_z0LeHOubTSrH4guDE7H1gaZICevgaQ15fF0tqxI7CB-aQw/viewform>.
- Partners: Get special Grab vouchers on purchases of the MacBook Neo until April 24, 2026.
- Education, SMB, and Enterprise: PMC also offers special Education pricing for students and members of the academe. Meanwhile, businesses and organizations looking to boost their operational efficiency and service delivery can approach any PMC store for a consultation on Apple integration.
Get the best deals with your cards and credit providers
Major bank and non-bank financial institutions offer flexible payment options of up to 36 months installment, 0% interest, Buy Now Pay Later modes, cashbacks, and bonus Power Mac Center Gift Certificates. Do note that these offers are available via in-store purchases only. Check with your financial providers for the full mechanics.
Before completing your purchase, make sure you’re a member of 1 Infinite. To join, download the 1 Infinite app in the App Store <http://bit.ly/4hljdr2> or Google Play <https://bit.ly/42ovsyK> and create an account or log in using your registered email address.
Present your membership when transacting in stores or input details in the Web Store <powermaccenter.com> to earn points, redeem rewards, and enjoy perks from Basecamp and Mobile Care. For full details, visit the site <https://powermaccenter.com/pages/1-infinite>.
Live launch with musical sets and interactive games
The MacBook Neo introduction unfolded as a full launch experience, with performances and interactive activities energizing the crowd before the official unveiling. Headlined by DJs Vernard Tan (in Greenbelt 3) and Ailishia (in Megamall), the shows set the tone for the night designed to engage this generation of tech consumers.
The event was supported by Power Mac Center’s brand partners Belkin, STM, BPI, UnionBank, and Home Credit, as well as Shokz, in partnership with 1 Infinite.
Don’t miss exciting announcements and special promos! Follow the OFFICIAL Power Mac Center accounts on Facebook, Instagram, X, TikTok, Viber, and YouTube.
#PMCExperience #MacMadeForMore
TECHNOLOGY
Xiaomi Fan Festival 2026 brings April deals across phones, pads, and smart devices
9:30 p.m. April 12, 2026
April is one of the better times this year to look at a Xiaomi upgrade. Xiaomi Fan Festival, the brand’s annual celebration for its fans; is now live in the Philippines under the theme “Smart Living, Made Yours,” running through April 30 at Xiaomi Authorized Stores, participating multi-brand retailers, and Xiaomi community channels.
The campaign spans the full lineup: phones from flagship to entry-level, tablets, wearables, TVs, and more. Most buyers will find at least one clear entry point.
Smartphones
At the top of the range is the Xiaomi 17, priced at ₱55,999 with a free Xiaomi Smart Band 9 Pro. For buyers who want a strong performer without going all the way to the flagship tier, the Xiaomi 15T Pro is available at ₱39,999 with a free Xiaomi Backpack, and the Xiaomi 15T comes in at ₱26,999 down from ₱28,999, with a free Xiaomi Neck Pillow.
The REDMI Note 15 Series covers the mid-range with four variants and a consistent Home Credit angle: shoppers can get an exclusive ₱500 discount per unit on any REDMI Note 15 Series device via Home Credit 0% interest installment plan, and a free month on Viu Premium. The REDMI Note 15 Pro+ 5G is priced at ₱27,999 with a free Xiaomi umbrella, the REDMI Note 15 Pro 5G starts at ₱19,999 with the same freebie, and the REDMI Note 15 5G runs from ₱14,999. At the most accessible end, the REDMI 15 starts at ₱8,999; a practical everyday pick for students and first-time buyers.
Pads
The Xiaomi Pad 8 Pro at ₱38,999 and the Xiaomi Pad 8 at ₱29,999 each come with the keyboard already in the box, plus a free Xiaomi Smart Band 9 Active, boasting a more complete setup from day one, whether the use case is work, school, or content. Both are also available via Home Credit 0% interest installment.
Below those, the REDMI Pad 2 lineup offers three tiers: the REDMI Pad 2 Pro 5G from ₱19,999, the REDMI Pad 2 Pro from ₱15,999, and the REDMI Pad 2 from ₱10,999 which gives students and households a range of screen sizes and specs without stepping into premium territory.
Wearables, TVs, and more
The wearables selection runs wider than the headline picks. The Xiaomi Smart Band 10 is available in Standard (₱2,699) and Ceramic Edition (₱3,799), with the Xiaomi Smart Band 10 Pro at ₱3,899 for buyers who want more. On the more accessible end, the Xiaomi Smart Band 9 Active is ₱1,399, and the REDMI Watch 5 Active comes in at ₱1,899. The REDMI Watch 5 is priced at ₱2,899.
For the living room, the Xiaomi TV A Series starts at ₱8,990 for the 32-inch and ₱12,990 for the 43-inch. Also in the lineup: the REDMI Buds 8 Lite at ₱1,299 and the Xiaomi Power Bank 10000mAh at ₱1,099.
Payment options
The Home Credit ₱500 discount is applicable to the REDMI Note 15 series while all smartphones and pads will come with 0% interest installment and Viu Premium 1-month voucher offer. That offer runs from April 1 to June 30, 2026; well past the main XFF window, giving you more time to sort out a payment plan before committing.
The deals listed here cover the main highlighted offers, but the full XFF 2026 lineup is broader. For complete mechanics, freebie eligibility per variant, and model availability, visit your nearest Xiaomi Authorized Store or participating retailer. For the Home Credit discount and installment options, ask at any participating Home Credit hub.
TECHNOLOGY
Quick Flicks and Pro Clicks: Logitech brings fastest click technology with Latest PRO X2 SUPERSTRIKE
1:11 p.m. March 26, 2026
Logitech G raises the bar for competitive gaming performance once again with the launch of the PRO X2 SUPERSTRIKE, a next-gen wireless mouse that combines inductive analog sensing with real-time haptics.
Designed for elite precision and total control, the PRO X2 dramatically reduces click latency, enhances responsiveness, and gives players the power to personalize their click intensity like never before.
Industry-Leading Click Technology
Featuring a patent-pending SUPERSTRIKE technology, an industry-first innovation, the PRO X2 transforms how every mouse click is activated and felt. This new technology allows players to reduce the required travel distance to send the click signal. Improvements in click delay are shown to reach up to 30 milliseconds based on internal testing. This drastically transforms the way players compete and provides them the decisive edge they need to win virtual battlefields.
The PRO X2 introduces the Haptic Inductive Trigger System (HITS), which replaces traditional microswitches found in gaming mice. This system drastically improves click latency performance by sending tactile feedback to players so each click is felt the moment the signal reaches the PC.
By combining trigger response optimization with real-time click haptics, Logitech G sets a new benchmark in competitive mouse performance through the PRO X2.
Customizable Esports-Level Gaming Performance
Developed in collaboration with elite esports teams G2 Esports, NAVi, and BLG, the PRO X2 is made to meet the demands of high-level competitive play. Every element of the mouse is designed to support players in fast decision-making, precise execution, and unmatched consistency, whether competing in a professional environment or grinding ranked matches at home.
Beyond its impressive click system, the PRO X2 also introduces 10 selectable actuation steps, allowing players to fine-tune the actuation point of both main buttons. This level of control enables them to calibrate every click depth to match their preferred playstyle, role, or specific game requirements with zero hassle. These adjustments can be made seamlessly through Logitech G HUB software, giving them the flexibility to edit their settings without disrupting their momentum.
The PRO X2 also features LIGHTSPEED wireless technology that blends comfort and efficiency by delivering up to an 8 kHz report rate of untethered freedom. This end-to-end wireless solution ensures that every click and movement registers with exceptional speed and stability, earning the trust of esports professionals worldwide.
Precision Tracking Without Setbacks
Harnessing Logitech’s elite HERO 2 sensor, the PRO X2 SUPERSTRIKE enables a reliable 888 IPS tracking speed with sub-micron precision, up to 44,000 DPI mouse sensitivity, and over 88G acceleration. For players, this level of control not only supports quick wrist flicks and controlled micro-adjustments but also helps in split-second decisions that require fast reaction. Movements are assured to have zero smoothing, acceleration, or filtering, giving players the chance to showcase their raw and unfiltered skills.
Lightweight Design Built for Long Competitive Sessions
Following the award-winning design of the SUPERLIGHT 2, the PRO X2 weighs 61 grams to support fluid movements and long competitive sessions. Additionally, it comes with a long-lasting battery, reaching up
90 hours of constant use, to allow players to focus on their games without worrying about charge times.
The PRO X2 SUPERSTRIKE sets a new benchmark in player-controlled click innovation that redefines what competitive gaming hardware can deliver. Through Logitech’s advancing technologies, it brings together ultra-responsiveness and absolute control for a reliable wireless virtual performance.
Logitech G’s latest gaming mouse is priced at PHP 11,945 and is available exclusively on Shopee 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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All-new MacBook Neo launches at Power Mac Center
