TECHNOLOGY
New Kaspersky VPN launched to amplify speed, convenience

October 24, 2022 2:08 p.m.
The new version of Kaspersky VPN, unveiled today, introduces a dramatic boost in VPN tunnel performance, a 200% increase compared to 2020. A split tunneling feature grants users the ability to prioritize secure connection traffic for certain services while a VPN for routers capability automatically re-routes any connected device at home.
Global VPN usage is on the rise, with the market set to reach a colossal $77.1 billion by 2026. It comes as no surprise to see its popularity grow however, as installing a VPN provides a quick and easy way to improve security and prevent data from falling into the wrong hands. It does this by routing data through an encrypted tunnel, which hides the IP address and makes it look as though the connection has come from elsewhere.
Alongside the performance increase, the updated Kaspersky VPN Secure Connection’s split tunneling feature allows users to select exactly what traffic goes through the VPN. This will help to achieve better performance, letting the user prioritize high-bandwidth traffic, focus on data in sensitive apps and disable the VPN for other apps, which can be reliant on location data.
The geography of servers within Kaspersky VPN Secure Connection has also been greatly increased, now offering 86 locations across 68 regions. This lets users access a wider range of content on the biggest global streaming services, including Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime, HBO Max, Disney+ and BBC iPlayer. An intuitive new function of the VPN helps customers to pick the best location for a particular task, by recommending the one that provides the best performance level, for either streaming or torrenting.
On top of this, the VPN for routers now allows all devices connected to home Wi-Fi to run through the VPN automatically, without having to set up each one individually. This feature is particularly useful for smart TVs, smart locks, and other smart home gadgets, on which a user cannot install a VPN directly, therefore providing uninterrupted privacy and security to these devices.
“As people continue to work from home and spend more time online, an increased importance is placed on keeping their data private as well as securing connected home devices. To support consumers with their needs we’ve invested a lot into the improvement of our Kaspersky VPN. As a result, consumers can experience the great achievement of boosted VPN tunnel performance, with a 200% increase compared to 2020. The VPN also sees new features and greater UX to ensure speed, privacy and high performance of connection across all home devices,” comments Marina Titova, Vice-President, Consumer Product Marketing at Kaspersky.
The new Kaspersky VPN Secure Connection is available now. To find out more about the product, visit here.
More information about new features in Kaspersky VPN Secure Connection are also available via this link.
TECHNOLOGY
Shell empowers Filipino SMEs thru award-winning Fleet App

5:09 p.m. July 8, 2025
Shell Pilipinas Corporation is empowering small and medium enterprises (SMEs) across the country through the Shell Fleet App (SFA), a first-of-its-kind mobile solution that streamlines fleet and fuel management in a secure and paperless way.
Launched in 2022, the app allows business owners to manage their Shell Fleet Card, control fuel spend, track driver activity, and access real-time reports, all in one platform. By simplifying traditional processes and eliminating paperwork and manual tracking, SFA gives SMEs the ability to operate with greater ease, visibility, and efficiency.
A Digital Response to a Growing SME Sector
With SMEs comprising 99.5% of registered businesses in the Philippines, Shell saw a critical need for tools tailored to their daily challenges. The app condenses the typical fleet card application process into just five minutes and has already contributed to a tenfold increase in SME customer acquisitions. According to Deepti Behl, Global Head of SMEs GM of Digital Products & Marketing at Shell Fleet Solutions, the app helps owners reclaim their time and streamline operations. “We designed the app to empower SME owners to manage their fleets anytime, anywhere. It reduces admin work, offers peace of mind, and enables entrepreneurs to focus on growth.”
Transforming Daily Operations
From automotive to retail and construction, Shell Fleet App users from various sectors have reported positive results. Business owners describe smoother daily operations, real-time visibility of fuel spend, and faster driver and expense management, all while on the go. Their testimonials reinforce SFA as not just a convenience but a business enabler.
With its core benefits, the app is purpose-built for Filipino SMEs. Whether it’s tracking fuel usage in real time, enabling seamless automated payments, or offering savings for the purchase of Shell lubricants, the app provides everyday value while helping ease cash flow pressures for small business owners.
Recognized Across Asia for Innovation
The Shell Fleet App’s breakthrough approach has earned multiple regional and international recognitions. Most recently, it won its third award, the Stevie Award at the 2024 Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards, further cementing its status as a world-class solution for small and medium enterprises. The app was also previously named Digital Transformation Initiative of the Year for the Philippines at the 2024 Asian Oil & Gas Awards and received the User Experience of the Year for Energy at the 2022 Asian Experience Awards. These accolades highlight Shell’s commitment to digital innovation that directly improves the way businesses operate.
A Future-Focused Commitment
Shell Pilipinas remains focused on developing tech-driven tools that help Filipino entrepreneurs grow and thrive. With regular updates informed by user feedback, the Shell Fleet App continues to evolve, shaping the future of fuel and fleet management for SMEs nationwide.
The Shell Fleet App is available for download on both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. SMEs can get started in minutes by downloading the app, signing up, and instantly unlocking access to Shell Fleet Card benefits. For more information, customers may visit the Shell Fleet Card for Small Business website or call the Shell Customer Service Hotline at +632 8878 8811.
TECHNOLOGY
Canva breaks ground as first design connector for OpenAI’s ChatGPT

3:22 p.m. July 6, 2025
In a landmark leap for AI-powered creativity, Canva has become the first design platform to deeply embed its creative suite into the world’s most advanced AI tools, including ChatGPT.
Two major launches – the deep research connector with ChatGPT and the Canva Model Context Protocol (MCP) Server – turn Canva into a powerful AI platform that plugs seamlessly into AI assistants and agents to securely access your designs and generate new ones, all within the same conversation.
As businesses and creators increasingly adopt AI-first workflows, Canva is pioneering a new era of AI-native design. Whether analyzing a marketing campaign, drafting a business plan, or generating social content, you can now brainstorm, design, and publish without leaving your AI assistant, unlocking new levels of creativity and speed.
By bringing Canva’s creative power directly into AI assistants, Canva is redefining how its 240 million users, including 95% of Fortune 500 companies, design, collaborate, and communicate, streamlining the entire content journey from concept to completion.
“AI agents and assistants have become indispensable creative partners, yet current workflows require users to manually add context or references, creating complexity,” said Anwar Haneef, GM and Head of Ecosystem at Canva. “We’re embedding Canva directly into the AI tools people use every day so they can brainstorm, create, and publish content faster. This is a major step in our vision to make the complex simple and build an all-in-one AI workflow that’s secure and accessible to all.”
Your Canva designs, accessible in ChatGPT
Canva’s deep research connector with ChatGPT will now connect users’ designs directly to OpenAI’s most advanced model, enabling specific, thoughtful, and context-rich responses grounded in your past work. Without needing to switch between tabs or dig for information, users can simply prompt ChatGPT to analyze or refine content across Canva Docs, Presentations, and more. With instant access to your design history, this integration removes friction and makes cross-platform creation and collaboration effortless.
Privacy and security are built in from the ground up. Every interaction is protected by Canva Shield, the company’s comprehensive AI trust and safety framework.
TECHNOLOGY
Acer maintains No. 1 personal computer market share in Philippines

12:11 p.m. July 5, 2025
Acer secured the top position in the Philippine personal computer market in Q1 2025, with a 35.7% total market share, a 34.2% share in consumer notebooks, and an impressive 40.6% share in gaming laptops, according to market research firm GfK.
Acer also delivered a strong performance in April, with its notebook segment reaching a 36% market share, further cementing its dominance.
Acer’s success can be credited to a multi-faceted marketing approach, including strategic partnerships with brand ambassadors. This method has proven very effective in expanding Acer’s nationwide reach and strengthening its local branding efforts.
A prime example is Acer’s partnership with the “Kings of P-pop,” SB19. This collaboration has been key in maintaining Acer’s relevance to its customer base, especially among the younger demographic. The partnership between Acer and SB19 began before their official ambassadorship for Acer Day and endorsement with Acer and Acerpure in 2021.
“Our partnership with SB19 works because we share the same values and energy. Also, the group’s strong social media presence and its ability to create engaging content have allowed us to reach and connect with our customers,” said Sue Ong-Lim, Managing Director at Acer Philippines.
Recently, Acer co-presented SB19’s “Simula at Wakas” world tour stop in Taiwan, further strengthening the brand’s connection with SB19’s fans. SB19 also visited Acer’s Taipei headquarters as “one-day employees” to experience the brand’s innovations firsthand.
Acer Chairman and CEO Jason Chen, along with Pan-Asia Pacific President Andrew Hou, personally met with the group and gifted each member a Predator Helios 18 gaming laptop.
During the group’s visit to Taiwan, SB19 visited Acer’s product experience center. They also tried the latest gaming laptops and the FreeSense Ring smart wearable developed by Acer Fashion. They participated in a design workshop to brainstorm ideas for laptop aesthetics and compact home appliances. As the partnership marks its fifth year, Acer and SB19 look forward to more fruitful and productive years together.
For more information about Acer, follow Acer Philippines on its social media platforms: @AcerPH on Facebook, @acerph on Instagram, and @acerphils on Twitter, or go to www.acer.com.