As the summer heat intensifies, having a reliable refrigerator that keeps food fresh and perfectly chilled becomes essential. Traditional refrigerators often require manual defrosting to remove ice buildup, which can be time-consuming and inconvenient.
Get Your No-Frost Fridge via Home Credit
No-frost refrigerators, on the other hand, use advanced technology to maintain consistent temperatures without the need for manual defrosting, ensuring hassle-free cooling and longer-lasting freshness.
No-frost refrigerators evenly distribute cold air inside the unit, preventing ice buildup and maintaining efficient cooling performance. Many models also incorporate energy-saving features that help reduce electricity consumption while providing reliable cooling, making them an excellent investment for modern households seeking convenience and efficiency.
Home Credit makes upgrading to a no-frost refrigerator more accessible and affordable through its Swakto Summer deals. These offers feature flexible installment plans for as low as 0% interest as well as zero down payment, allowing customers to enjoy hassle-free cooling without financial strain. The application process is simple and fast, requiring only one valid ID, with approvals possible in as little as one minute.
Home Credit’s extensive network includes over 15,000 partner stores across more than 75 provinces nationwide, ensuring that Filipinos can easily find and purchase their preferred no-frost refrigerator model. Prices for these refrigerators start as low as PHP 28 per day, making it convenient to own a modern cooling appliance.
Several notable no-frost refrigerator models are available through Home Credit’s Swakto Summer deals:
Panasonic 9.5 cu ft Two-Door No-Frost Inverter Refrigerator (NR-BP272VD): Equipped with Econavi Technology to optimize energy consumption, adjustable shelves, a spacious crisper drawer, and an Ag Filter that eliminates 99.99% of bacteria. Priced at PHP22,879, available for PHP 909 per month or PHP 30 per day for 18 months.
Samsung 12.3 cu ft Top Mount Freezer Refrigerator (RT35CG5444S9TC): Provides all-around cooling, Digital Inverter Technology for quiet and efficient operation, and an Optimal Fresh Zone for produce. Priced at PHP 30,041, available for PHP 1,205 per month or PHP 40 per day for 18 months.
For these offers, you may visit any partner store or explore options online at Shoppingmall.ph. The Home Credit App, available on Google Play, the App Store, and Huawei AppGallery, also allows users to get quick pre-approval for product installments, streamlining the purchase process.
For more information, you may visit Home Credit Philippines’ official website, and its social media pages on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.
The ambitious PHP 200-billion Makati Subway project has been declared “no longer economically and operationally feasible” by its contractor, Philippine Infradev Holdings Inc., due to ongoing territorial disputes between Makati and Taguig. This marks a significant setback for what would have been a critical addition to Metro Manila’s public transportation infrastructure.
Derailed by Jurisdictional Changes
The project’s suspension stems from a Supreme Court ruling that transferred the jurisdiction of a number of barangays from Makati to Taguig City. The affected areas, collectively known as the “embo” (enlisted men’s Barrios) barangays, include Pembo, Comembo, Cembo, South Cembo, West Rembo, East Rembo, Pitogo, Rizal, Post Proper Northside, and Post Proper Southside.
This territorial redistribution has fundamentally altered the planned alignment of the 11KM subway system, which had been designed to accommodate approximately 700,000 daily commuters. The ruling was based on historical, documentary, and testimonial evidence, and has effectively undermined the project’s original feasibility studies and operational plans.
Impact on Metro Manila’s Commuting Public
The indefinite suspension of the Makati Subway project is a significant blow to Metro Manila’s commuters, who continue to face severe transportation challenges daily. It would have provided a crucial alternative to the congested roads and overtaxed public transportation options currently available.
For the hundreds of thousands of workers, students, and residents who travel to and from Makati’s central business district daily, the subway would offer a faster, more reliable commuting option. The cancellation of the project will likely result in continued traffic congestion, longer commutes, and increased transportation costs for many Metro Manila residents.
Construction Activities Suspended, Arbitration Initiated
According to Philippine Infradev Holdings Inc.’s latest financial report, construction activities for the subway project have been suspended. The company has also initiated arbitration proceedings with the Singapore International Arbitration Center to resolve issues related to its joint venture agreement with the Makati City government.
This legal approach suggests that the project’s stakeholders recognize the complexity of the situation and are seeking an impartial resolution that might potentially salvage some aspects of the initiative.
Potential Path Forward
While the subway project appears to be at an impasse, transportation experts suggest that a collaborative approach between Makati and Taguig could potentially revive the initiative. A joint development agreement that acknowledges the new territorial boundaries while preserving the project’s core objectives could provide a way forward.
Such cooperation would require both local governments to prioritize the greater good of the commuting public over jurisdictional disputes. A restructured project could potentially incorporate stations serving both cities, creating a transportation system that benefits residents regardless of municipal boundaries.
Broader Implications for Infrastructure Development
This situation highlights the vulnerability of large-scale infrastructure projects to political and administrative changes. It also underscores the importance of securing clear legal frameworks and intergovernmental agreements before committing substantial resources to major development initiatives.
For Metro Manila’s transportation future, the suspension of the Makati Subway project emphasizes the need for coordinated metropolitan planning that transcends individual city jurisdictions. As the region continues to grapple with transportation challenges, projects that serve the broader public interest should ideally be insulated from local territorial disputes.
The commuting public can only hope that Makati and Taguig will eventually find common ground, recognizing that effective public transportation benefits all residents regardless of which city government collects the taxes or claims the territory. Until then, the vision of an efficient subway system serving one of Metro Manila’s busiest districts remains unfulfilled.
vivo has officially introduced the vivo Y19 5G to the Indian market. This new device, distinct from its 2019 namesake, brings several notable features to the entry-level 5G segment.
vivo Y19 5G
The vivo Y19 5G features a 6.74-inch LCD display with a resolution of 720×1600 pixels. The screen offers a 90 Hz refresh rate. The device maintains a relatively compact profile with dimensions of 167.3 × 76.95 × 8.19mm and weighs 199g. It comes with IP64 certification, providing protection against dust and water splashes, while security is handled by a side-mounted fingerprint sensor.
Powering vivo the Y19 5G is MediaTek’s Dimensity 6300 processor, offering 5G connectivity at an accessible price point. The smartphone runs on Android 15 with Vivo’s Funtouch OS 15.
The camera configuration includes a primary 13-megapixel rear sensor with an f/2.2 aperture, accompanied by a 0.08-megapixel decorative sensor. For selfies and video calls, the device houses a 5-megapixel front camera with an f/2.2 aperture. The camera system is enhanced with AI capabilities, including AI Erase, AI Photo Enhance, and AI Documents functionalities.
The vivo Y19 5G packs a 5,500 mAh battery with support for 15W wired charging. The brand claims that it can retain over 80% of its capacity even after 1,600 complete charge/discharge cycles.
The device comes in a number of variants – 4GB of RAM paired with 64GB or 128GB of eMMC 5.1 storage, and 6GB of RAM with 128GB storage. It features a triple card slot that accommodates two nano SIMs and a microSD card for expandable storage.
Pricing and Availability
The vivo Y19 5G is available in two color options: Titanium Silver and Majestic Green, and is priced as follows:
HONOR is reportedly set to introduce substantial enhancements to its mid-range smartphone lineup with the upcoming HONOR 400 series. The most notable upgrade could be the integration of a 200-megapixel main camera, potentially making these phones among the most capable in photography in their market segment.
HONOR 400 Series: Brand’s Best Midrangers to Date?
According to tipster Digital Chat Station, the standard HONOR 400 is expected to feature a 6.55-inch screen, while the Pro variant may offer a slightly larger 6.7-inch display. Both devices are touted to utilize flat panel displays with 1.5K resolution and LTPS technology.
The devices are reportedly set to use different chipsets. The standard HONOR 400 may be equipped with a Snapdragon 7 Gen processor, while the HONOR 400 Pro could feature a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for flagship-level processing capabilities.
Perhaps the most significant rumored enhancement concerns the camera system. The HONOR 400 series may introduce a 200-megapixel main camera, which would represent a substantial upgrade for a mid-range device. Additionally, the Pro variant may incorporate a 50-megapixel telephoto lens, adding versatility.
The HONOR 400 series is expected to feature a metal frame for enhanced durability, which has been where some brands have been focusing on with their recent devices. We could also see improvements in battery technology with the possible inclusion of a 7000mAh silicon unit for extended usage between charges.
While these specifications appear promising, the HONOR 400 Series, or that’s what it’s likely to be called has not officially launched, and actual specifications may differ.
The landscape of computer graphics is on the cusp of a seismic shift with AI at its core. At the epicenter of this revolution stands NVIDIA with its groundbreaking Blackwell GeForce RTX 50 Series. The new Blackwell architecture promises to unlock unprecedented levels of realism, performance, and creative potential, ushering in a new era of AI-powered experiences for gamers, developers, and creators alike.
“Blackwell, the engine of AI, has arrived for PC gamers, developers and creatives. Fusing AI-driven neural rendering and ray tracing, Blackwell is the most significant computer graphics innovation since we introduced programmable shading 25 years ago.”
-Jensen Huang, founder and CEO of NVIDIA
Nvidia GeForce RTX 50 Series – Blackwell Architecture
Nvidia GeForce RTX 50 Series Blackwell Architecture
NVIDIA has launched its new GeForce RTX 50 Series graphics cards and laptops, powered by the advanced Blackwell RTX architecture. These GPUs introduce significant advancements aimed at revolutionizing gaming and creative workflows. Key to this new generation are technologies like NVIDIA DLSS 4 with Multi Frame Generation, capable of boosting frame rates by up to 8X through AI-driven frame creation, and NVIDIA Reflex 2, which dramatically reduces system latency by up to 75% for enhanced responsiveness in games. Additionally, NVIDIA RTX Neural Shaders enable next-level graphical fidelity by integrating AI into the rendering pipeline.
The GeForce RTX 50 Series lineup extends beyond the 5090 to include other GPUs like the RTX 5080, 5070 Ti, 5070, and 5060 Ti bringing the benefits of Blackwell, DLSS 4, Reflex 2, and Neural Shaders to a wider range of users. These cards also feature faster GDDR7 memory and offer substantial generational performance gains. The new series will be available from leading add-in card partners such as ASUS, Colorful, Galax, GIGABYTE, MSI, and others, as well as integrated into desktop systems from various builders. The GeForce RTX 50 Series represents a major leap forward, leveraging AI and architectural enhancements to set a new standard for PC graphics performance and capabilities.
RTX Neural Shaders – A New Way to Render
Nvidia GeForce RTX 50 Series Neural Shaders 2Nvidia GeForce RTX 50 Series Neural Shaders
RTX Neural Shaders are a key part of the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 50 Series GPUs. This technology aims to change how graphics are rendered by integrating small AI networks directly into the programmable shader pipeline. This allows for the creation of highly complex and realistic visual elements, unlocking the potential for film-quality materials, sophisticated lighting, and other advanced effects to be rendered in real-time within games and interactive experiences.
“Microsoft is excited to partner with NVIDIA to catalyze this next generation of graphics programming by bringing industry-wide support for neural shading technology. DirectX will soon support Cooperative Vectors, which will unlock the power of Tensor Cores on NVIDIA GeForce RTX hardware and enable game developers to fully accelerate neural shaders on Windows.”
-Bryan Langley, partner group program manager of Silicon, Media, and Graphics at Microsoft.
Nvidia GeForce RTX 50 Series Neural Shaders 3
A more specific and high-impact application of RTX Neural Shaders is the rendering of game characters, particularly digital humans, which has always been a challenge to make truly convincing. RTX Neural Faces is a specific application of this technology that takes basic input like a rasterized face and 3D pose data, then uses generative AI to produce a high-quality, temporally stable digital face in real time. This capability is further enhanced by complementary RTX technologies designed for realistic ray-traced hair and skin.
Nvidia GeForce RTX 50 Series Neural Shaders 4
Combined with innovations like RTX Mega Geometry, which drastically increases the number of ray-traced triangles that can be handled in a scene (by up to 100x), these advancements powered by Neural Shaders are set to deliver a massive leap forward in the overall realism of game characters and environments, ushering in a new era of visual fidelity.
Nvidia GeForce RTX 50 Series for Laptops
Nvidia GeForce RTX 50 Series 090Nvidia GeForce RTX 50 Series 091
NVIDIA’s new era of mobile performance has arrived with the availability of GeForce RTX 5090, 5080, and 5070 Ti laptops, with RTX 5070 and RTX 5060 models launching soon. Powered by the NVIDIA Blackwell architecture, these laptops bring game-changing capabilities to both gamers and creators on the go.
These GeForce RTX 50 Series laptops offer transformative performance thanks to technologies like DLSS 4 with Multi Frame Generation, which dramatically multiplies frame rates for incredibly smooth gameplay. Beyond gaming, they accelerate demanding tasks such as AI content generation and creative workflows using NVIDIA Studio apps and enhancements, allowing users to unleash their creativity at remarkable speeds.
Nvidia GeForce RTX 50 Series 100Nvidia GeForce RTX 50 Series 098Nvidia GeForce RTX 50 Series 099Nvidia GeForce RTX 50 Series 097
Designed for portability without compromising power, these laptops leverage the latest Max-Q technologies. This results in exceptionally thin designs and extended battery life, ensuring that users can enjoy high-performance gaming, creating, and AI acceleration wherever they are.
Xiaomi has just introduced Xiaomi Mimo, its first open-source AI large language model, designed for reasoning tasks.
Xiaomi MiMo
Xiaomi MiMo is a 7-billion-parameter model that excels in mathematical reasoning and code generation. It was developed by the company’s newly-formed Xiaomi Big Model Core Team and is said to match the performance of larger models like OpenAI’s 01-mini and Alibaba’s Qwen-32B-Preview.
The company believes that the reasoning effectiveness of MiMo, despite it being a smaller model, is driven by the base model’s potential, enabled through focused pre- and post-training strategies.
Pre-training
The reasoning ability of Xiaomi Mimo is built on an optimized pre-training process that includes improved data preprocessing pipelinne, enhanced text extraction tools, and multi-layered filtering. This was done to incrase the density of reasoning patterns.
The team compiled a dataset of 200 billion reasoning tokens and applied a three-stage data mixture strategy. The model was trained on 25 trillion tokens over three progressive training phases.
Post-Training Process
Meanwhile, the post-training stage used 130,000 mathematics and coding problems. The team also implemented a Test Difficulty Driven Reward system to address sparse rewards in complex tasks. There’s also Easy Data Re-Sampling for stable RL training on easier problems.
There’s also a Seamless Rollout Engine that cuts down GPU downtime, which increases training speed by 2.29x and a 1.96x boost in validation.
Xiaomi MiMo-7B comes in four versions:
MiMo-7B-Base – the base model with strong reasoning potential
MiMo-7B-RL-Zero – RL Model trained from the base
MiMo-7B-SFT – a supervised fine-tuned model
MiMo-7B-RL – RL model training from SFT
The MiMo-7B model series is open-source and accessible via Hugging Face. If you’re interested in the full technical report, you can check it out at GitHub.
You can now go further with the Infinix NOTE 50 Pro+ 5G (12GB+256GB) in Call of Duty Mobile and more. The device is now available for less than PHP 18,000.
Infinix NOTE 50 Pro+ 5G
The Infinix NOTE 50 Pro+ 5G Call of Duty Mobile Flagship Edition provides the most seamless experience while facing off against enemies.
The device is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 8350 processor and coupled with a 5200mAh battery. The latter is said to charge in minutes thanks to its 100W wired fast charging support and 50W wireless charging.
It also boasts a 144Hz AMOLED panel, ensuring fast response and reduced eye strain.
The NOTE 50 Pro+ 5G has a full metal frame for a premium look and flagship-grade durability and comes in Titanium Grey, Enchanted Purple, and Racing Ediiton.
Moreover, the device has a 50MP 3x OIS periscope telephoto lens with up to 6x digital lossless and a maximum 100x zoom. The company has managed to keep the device at just 7.99mm slim.
The camera system is enhanced with OIS and AI Super Resolution. Moreover, you can open the camera instantly with Double-Tap Quick Launch on the volume button. You can also choose from four filters – Bright, Retro, Black & White, and Time Travel for a bit of more flair in your photos.
In addition to its CODM partnership, the Infinix NOTE 50 Pro+ features a free 1-year Viu subscription.
Infinix is also sponsoring Aurora Gaming. While they are known as Mobile Legends: Bang Bang pros, the esports athletes are ready to jump into CODM and showcase how quickly elite players can adapt and dominate across titles.
Infinix’s partnership with Viu brings the Fast to First theme into the world of entertainment, which is perfect for those who want to stay ahead in both tech and entertainment.
Infinix fans can also get a chance to win a brand-new Infinix NOTE 50 and other prizes in the Viu Emoji Pictionary. All you have to do is follow Infinix and Viu’s official social media accounts, share the official poster on your feed or story, tag two friends, and use the hashtags #InfinixxViu, #FastToFirst, and #InfinixNOTE50Series. Make sure that your account is public. You can do so until May 9, winners will be announced on May 10.
10 lucky winners will receive an exclusive Infinix 1-year subscription, and one grand winner of a brand-new Infinix NOTE 50.
Pricing and Availability
Get the Infinix NOTE 50 Pro+ (12GB+256GB) for an Early Bird price of PHP 15,999 from PHP 17,999 via Shopee.
You can also get a chance to get a special bundle gift of Call of Duty Mobile t-shirt, 1-year Viu subscription, and a car charger with each purchase, until stocks last.
The Infinix NOTE 50 Pro+ is also available via Lazada and TikTok Shop.
For more information on the Infinix NOTE 50 Series and updates on events, follow the official Inifnix Facebook and become an Xfan in the Facebook Community.
Industry insider Digital Chat Station has revealed details about MediaTek‘s upcoming flagship chipset for 2025, suggesting a significant leap in performance. Reportedly named the Dimensity 9500, the SoC will be manufactured using TSMC’s advanced N3P process, an upgrade from the N3E node used in its predecessors.
MediaTekDimensity 9500 SoC Spec Leaks
A key highlight is the all-large core CPU architecture, featuring a configuration of 1x “Travis,” 3x “Alto,” and 4x “Gelas” cores. While “Alto” remains undisclosed, “Travis” is anticipated to be ARM’s next-generation Cortex-X core, potentially clocking in above 4GHz, and “Gelas” is expected to be the Cortex-A7xx series. The chip will also boast a substantial 16MB of L3 cache and 10MB of system-level cache.
Further enhancing performance, the Dimensity 9500 will support high-speed LPDDR5X RAM up to 10,667Mbps and 4-lane UFS 4.1 storage. Graphics will be handled by an Immortalis-Drage GPU with enhanced ray tracing capabilities and improved power efficiency.
Artificial intelligence processing is set to receive a major boost with the dedicated NPU 9.0, targeting a remarkable 100 TOPS. This represents a significant increase over the estimated 50 TOPS of the current Dimensity 9400.
Maya, a leading force in the Philippines’ fintech landscape, is making waves with its latest offering: the Maya Black Credit Card. This new product aims to shake up the credit card scene by increasing accessibility, especially for those often excluded by traditional financial institutions. With a focus on mobile-first consumers, Maya Black leverages the company’s data and AI-driven credit models to offer a fresh approach to credit in the Philippines.
Bridging the Credit Gap
The introduction of Maya Black came at a time when interest in credit cards was high, yet access was limited. Google Philippines data indicates that credit cards account for 38% of financial product search interest. However, only 15% of Filipino adults have a credit card as of Q4 2023, according to TransUnion data. Maya aims to bridge this gap by removing traditional barriers and utilizing AI-powered credit scoring to reach its growing base of Millennial and Gen Z users.
Shailesh Baidwan, Maya Group President and Maya Bank Co-Founder, emphasized the company’s commitment to democratizing credit access:
Credit cards have long symbolized financial freedom and status-but for most Filipinos, they’ve remained out of reach. With Maya Black, we’re making the most desirable card in the market-and democratizing access to it.
A Digital-First Approach
Maya Black distinguishes itself with its fully digital experience. From application to customer support, the entire process is managed within the Maya app. Users receive an instant virtual card upon approval, followed by a physical card without a printed card number. Card details are securely stored in the app, where users can also freeze or replace their card in real time.
Angelo Madrid, Maya Bank President, highlighted the card’s design for the digital generation:
We designed Maya Black for a generation that expects instant, mobile-first banking. This isn’t the usual credit card-it’s a re-engineered experience.
Premium Features and Benefits
Maya Black cardholders can enjoy several premium features from day one:
Maya Miles: Earn miles on every transaction, with real-time tracking. Miles can be used across Maya’s merchant network, converted to airline miles (like Philippine Airlines’ Mabuhay Miles), or redeemed for other travel rewards. New users can receive 3,000 bonus miles upon physical card activation and a ₱5,000 spend within 60 days.
Lounge Access: Access to airport lounges via DragonPass, including PAGSS and Marhaba lounges in NAIA.
Global Acceptance: Accepted at over 130 million merchants worldwide via Visa.
Advanced Security: Card numbers are only visible via the app, with freeze/replace features for enhanced security.
Addressing Financial Inclusion
The launch of Maya Black is particularly relevant in the context of financial inclusion in the Philippines. While the number of Filipinos with bank accounts has increased, a significant portion of the population remains unbanked. According to the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), 65% of Filipino adults are now banked. This means that approximately 35% of Filipino adults are still unbanked. This represents a substantial decrease from 2019, where 51.2 million Filipinos were unbanked, which went down to 34.3 million in 2021.
Maya Black seeks to address this challenge by offering credit access to individuals who may not qualify for traditional credit cards due to a lack of credit history or other factors. By utilizing alternative data sources and AI-driven credit scoring, Maya aims to provide financial opportunities to a broader segment of the population.
Maya’s initiative aligns with the BSP’s goals of increasing financial inclusion and promoting digital payments. The central bank has been actively implementing programs to extend financial services beyond urban areas. The rise in digital payments, which accounted for 52.8% of total retail payment transactions in 2023, reflects the success of these efforts.
A Promising Step
The Maya Black Credit Card represents a significant step towards democratizing credit access in the Philippines. By leveraging technology and focusing on the needs of mobile-first consumers, Maya is poised to reshape the credit card landscape and contribute to greater financial inclusion in the country.
CMF by Nothing has launched a comprehensive refresh of its wireless earbuds portfolio, introducing three distinct models at varied price points. The lineup includes the CMF Buds 2a, Buds 2, and Buds 2 Plus, each offering different features and capabilities to cater to diverse consumer needs.
CMF Buds 2
The CMF Buds 2 features 11mm drivers with Dirac Opteo tuning. These earbuds provide 48dB Active Noise Cancellation across a 5,200Hz range. Battery performance is impressive, with the buds capable of lasting up to 13.5 hours on a single charge with ANC disabled, and a total listening time of 55 hours when used with the charging case. The CMF Buds 2 carries an IP55 dust and water resistance rating, ensuring durability in various environments.
CMF Buds 2 Plus
For consumers seeking enhanced audio quality, the CMF Buds 2 Plus offers substantial improvements over the standard model for a modest price increase. These earbuds deliver superior noise cancellation at 50dB across a 5,400Hz range, surpassing even the previous Buds Pro 2 model. The Buds 2 Plus also introduces Smart Adaptive Mode, a feature absent in the standard Buds 2.
It uses 12mm drivers and supports the LDAC codec, complemented by Hi-Res Audio certification. It also boasts up to 14 hours of playback (with ANC disabled) and up to 61.5 hours total with the charging case. The Buds 2 Plus also has the lowest latency mode in the lineup at 105ms when paired with Nothing OS devices.
CMF Buds 2a
The CMF Buds 2a is the entry-level option, with its 12.4mm drivers with Dirac tuning. It features 42dB noise cancellation using four microphones with older noise reduction technology. Battery performance is more modest, offering up to 8 hours of playback (ANC disabled) and up to 35.5 hours total with the case. Water resistance is rated at IP54, slightly lower than its siblings.
Common Features and Availability
All models in the CMF range can be configured through the Nothing X application, allowing users to adjust EQ settings, Ultra Bass levels, ANC intensity, multi-point connectivity, and low-latency mode. The app also provides integration with ChatGPT.
The CMF Buds 2 and Buds 2 Plus feature six microphones (three per earbud) with Wind Noise Reduction 3.0 and Clear Voice Technology 3.0 for enhanced call quality.
Pre-orders for the new CMF earbuds are now available through Nothing’s official website, with open sales scheduled to begin on May 6. Pricing varies by region, with the Buds 2a starting at USD 50, the Buds 2 at USD 60, and the Buds 2 Plus at USD 70. The brand also launched the CMF Phone 2 Pro.
There’s no news yet as to whether these will be released in the Philippines.
realme has just introduced the latest members of the realme 14 Series 5G, namely the realme 14 5G and its sibling, the realme 14T 5G. The duo is said to deliver Performance Beyond Limits.
Just how does a PHP 20K device do that? We checked whether it actually performs beyond limits. And spoiler, I’m actually impressed and surprised with how well it delivers with day-to-day use and more so with gaming.
Before I get to my full review, I shared my first impressions of the device recently. You can read that here.
Here’s my experience with the realme 14 5G.
realme 14 5G Review
Full Specifications
Display
6.67-inch FHD+ AMOLED 120Hz refresh rate
Processor
Snapdragon 6 Gen 4
GPU
Adreno 810
RAM
12GB
Storage
256GB
Rear Camera
50MP main 2MP depth
Front Camera
16MP
Battery
6000mAh battery 45W Fast Charge
OS
realme UI 6.0 (Android 15)
Colors
Mecha Silver Storm Titanium Warrior Pink
Build and Design
The realme 14 5G is built around a 6.67-inch FHD+ AMOLED panel with a 120Hz refresh rate. Size-wise, it’s quite average in 2025. We were given the Mecha Silver color option, which has the most gamer-aesthetics among the three color options.
I generally don’t like the stereotypical gamer design despite being one, but the mecha-inspired design of the back panel is pretty eye-catching. One downside, though, especially with the Mecha Silver option, is that it is a fingerprint magnet. I found myself wiping it so many times during my time with it, and more so when I shot the photos of the device.
Of course, this could be solved by slapping on the included silicone case, but because it is translucent rather than fully transparent, you lose the metallic sheen of the back panel. Which is why I mostly used it without the case despite the fingerprints.
Another thing that I liked about the Mecha Silver option is the subtle orange accents on a thin piece to the right of the camera module and on the power button. It just helps bring a pop of needed color to the device.
The rest of the device is pretty standard. The bottom features the speaker grille, USB-C port, microphone, and SIM tray. The sides are flat but round into the back panel and display.
Hands-on Experience and Performance
The realme 14 5G is powered by the Snapdragon 6 Gen 4, and the first device to use the new Qualcomm midrange chipset, coupled with 12GB RAM and 256GB storage.
Here is how it performs in AnTuTu, Geekbench, 3DMark, and PCMark compared to other midrange phones we’ve reviewed:
The Snapdragon 6 Gen 4 and the 12GB RAM onboard work together to deliver a smooth everyday use. For me, that means going through social media, watching a ton of YouTube videos, checking emails, and messaging friends throughout the day.
Speaking of RAM, the device offers RAM expansion of up to 14GB for a total of 26GB of RAM! This, of course, will use up your storage. If 14GB is too much, you can opt for 4GB or 8GB RAM expansion or just turn it off entirely. I suggest checking if you have it on from boot. 256GB storage is pretty average in 2025, and it may be eating away at it without you knowing. Although, 12GB is more than enough for everyday use.
The realme 14 5G also features a Pulse Light on the right side of the camera island. At a quick glance, you can easily mistake it as an LED flash, but there’s more to it. It can be turned to tell you when there’s an incoming call, notifications from apps, to jam with music, and for game events like entering the game and getting kills.
I preferred using the Pulse Light for notifications and calls. Its gaming implementation, though, while pretty cool, really does nothing for me because I don’t get to enjoy seeing it blink when I play. I suppose this is a feature that is better appreciated when you’re out with friends and have mobile gaming sessions.
Camera
I think the camera system of the realme 14 5G is where the company had to cut back to maintain its price. It has a 50MP main camera and a 2MP depth sensor. The latter isn’t ideal, but I’d definitely prefer a depth lens over a macro.
The 50MP main snapper delivers good photos, especially in good light. It doesn’t stand out, but I think the quality and color reproduction of the photos are good enough to be used on social media.
You, clearly, can’t use the 2MP depth sensor on its own like, say, an ultrawide lens, but I’d like to think that it helps the device capture even better portrait shots. Here are some portrait samples:
You can see the realme 14 5G struggles, though, and that’s with night or low-light photography, like when going around in the city. It’s decent, but it doesn’t quite process movement well enough in low light. I hope this is something that can be addressed via a software update.
The 16MP front camera isn’t the best, but it isn’t the worst either. Like the main snapper, selfies with the front lens are just good enough to post updates on social media.
Gaming Experience
As it is positioned as a gaming-focused phone, I’ve decided to separate my gaming experience. Spoiler alert, I was pleasantly surprised with its performance.
The company partnered with three massive games – Mobile Legends: Bang Bang, Honor of Kings, and PUBG: Mobile for their implementation with its Pulse Light. Working with the developers also helps you unlock features like the highest graphical settings, and I assume optimization was in play as well.
Unsurprisingly, MLBB and Honor of Kings were a breeze to play on the device. I was more impressed with its performance while I played Honkai Star Rail and Genshin Impact. Both, pretty hardware-intensive, and yet, the Snapdragon 6 Gen 4 and realme 14 5G handled them. Of course, I didn’t use it at Highest settings, but you can play it at the Highest settings.
I can’t forget to mention the GT Boost technology, which includes the performance booster – GT Mode. GT Mode requires more power, meaning faster battery drain, but in turn, you get smoother performance in games. I also appreciate that you can toggle on and off the status display to track FPS, CPU usage, and GPU usage.
Battery
The realme 14 5G boasts a large 6000mAh battery and support for 45W Fast Charge. Before I get to my experience, here are the results of the PCMark battery test, which runs the device through a simulation of everyday use that includes video editing, scrolling through photos and social media, and more.
Yes, you saw that right, 21 hours for 60Hz. Sure, I didn’t use it at all at 60Hz, but for those that want to save battery, I like that there’s an option that allows you gets you through almost an entire day.
Even at Auto Select refresh rate mode, which automatically switches refresh rate depending on what’s going on your screen, it’s still quite long-lasting. I used this mostly, and even with a couple of MLBB games, the Pulse Light on, and the ever essential scrolling through social media, it still lasted pretty close to the 15 hours that it clocked on PCMark.
Even if you end up burning through the large battery, charging it is pretty fast thanks to its 45W Fast Charge support.
Software
The realme 14 5G runs on realme UI 6.0 on top of Android 15 out of the box. And one downside is that it boots with quite a lot of bloatware. It isn’t the biggest of deals, but personally, I prefer it as barebones as possible when I first use it.
It makes up for it in customization options. There’s quite a lot you can change, like icon shape, Always On Display features, fonts, and even the fingerprint scanner animation.
I’ve already mentioned features like GT Boost and GT Mode in the gaming section, but as it is part of software, I must mention it again, and yes, it is quite a feat. One that a gaming device definitely helps to have.
Overall, realme UI 6.0 is among my favorite softwares. Its similarities to ColorOS and OxygenOS make it very familiar.
Verdict
The realme 14 5G is a pretty solid device, especially if you’re into mobile gaming and games like Mobile Legends: Bang Bang, Honor of Kings, and PUBG: Mobile. Priced at under PHP 18,000, it can be a pretty reliable daily driver.
One downside, though, is that if you’re looking for a smartphone that focuses on the camera, this is just average. Not to mention, there is no ultrawide lens, which I’ve grown to appreciate as someone who enjoys walking around and taking photos.
However, if you’re just looking for a solid device to use for day-to-day and for a bit of gaming, this is worth checking out.
realme has unveiled the latest members of the realme 14 Series 5G – the realme 14 5G and realme 14T 5G. The duo differentiates itself from its Pro siblings by being focused more on gaming and performance, while still being more affordable.
realme 14 5G and realme 14T 5G
The realme 14 5G and 14T 5G share their specs like the massive 6000mAh battery, 45W Fast Charge support, 6.67-inch 120Hz FHD+ AMOLED display, 16MP front camera, and 50MP main camera.
The realme 14 5G is the more powerful of the duo with a Snapdragon 6 Gen 4 at the helm, a 2MP depth sensor, and more RAM at 12GB. The realme 14T 5G, on the other hand, is powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 6300, coupled with 8GB RAM, and a 2MP monochrome.
The duo is also rated at IP69, IP68, and IP66, ensuring that the devices are safe, even when you drop in a pool or a mug of water.
They also boast GT Boost, which boosts performance and offers a fully customizable gaming experience. Part of this feature includes GT Mode, which you can easily toggle, whether in-game or from the Notifications panel.
Moreover, the duo features a Pulse Light in the rear camera module that can show things like notifications and highlights in games like entering a game or getting kills in Mobile Legends: Bang Bang, Honor of Kings, and PUBG: Mobile.
Full Specifications
realme 14 5G
realme 14T 5G
Display
6.67-inch FHD+ AMOLED 120Hz refresh rate
6.67-inch FHD+ AMOLED 120Hz refresh rate
Processor
Snapdragon 6 Gen 4
MediaTek Dimensity 6300
GPU
Adreno 810
Arm Mali-G57 MC2
RAM
12GB
8GB
Storage
256GB
256GB
Rear Camera
50MP main 2MP depth
50MP main (OmniVision OV50D40, f/1.8) 2MP monochrome
Front Camera
16MP (Sony IMX480, f/2.4)
16MP (Sony IMX480, f/2.4)
Battery
6000mAh battery 45W Fast Charge
6000mAh 45W Fast Charge
OS
realme UI 6.0 (Android 15)
realme UI 6.0 (Android 15)
Pricing and Availability
The realme 14 5G is available in the Philippines in three colors – Mecha Silver, Storm Titanium, and the limited edition Warrior Pink. It is available for PHP 17,999 for the lone 12GB+256GB configuration.
Meanwhile, the realme 14T 5G comes in three colorways – Obsidian Black and Lightning Purple. The device comes in a single memory configuration of 8GB+256GB, and it is available for PHP 14,999.
From April 29 to May 11, 2025, you can enjoy free TechLife Headphones G1 worth PHP 2,199 when you purchase the realme 14 5G and realme 14T 5G at realme Physical Stores. Moreover, you can get with credit cards realme 14 5G at up to an 18-month installment term and the realme 14T 5G at up to a 12-month installment term at 0% interest for both devices. You can also get them via Home Credit at up to an 18-month installment plan.
You can also redeem vouchers on the realme TikTok Shop to get the devices at a discounted price from April 29 to May 4, 2025. The latest members of the realme 14 Series 5G for as low as:
realme 14 5G – as low as PHP 15,299 with a freebie of 800 ML Diamonds (while supplies last)
realme 14T 5G – as low as PHP 12,399 with a freebie of 500 ML Diamonds (while supplies last)
Rumors about Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 7 say it could shatter thickness records for foldable smartphones. According to X tipster @TheGalox_ _, the device, slated for a July 2025 launch, may measure 8.2mm when folded.
Galaxy Z Fold 7 – Slimmest Foldable?
This bold claim, echoing a February rumor, would significantly undercut the OPPO Find N5’s 8.9mm and represent a 30% reduction from the anticipated Galaxy Z Fold 6’s dimensions. Such a slim profile could be a major leap forward for Samsung’s foldable lineup, especially after the Z Fold 6’s incremental upgrades.
However, this report contradicts earlier whispers of a 9.5mm thickness, leaving many questioning how Samsung could achieve such thinness without compromising features. Speculation suggests a potential shift in S Pen technology.
Expected to feature the powerful Snapdragon 8 Elite chip, a remarkably thin Z Fold 7 could revitalize Samsung’s position in the competitive foldable market, potentially justifying its rumored premium price tag exceeding USD 1,900. While the 8.2mm claim remains unconfirmed until the official July unveiling, it presents an exciting prospect for the future of foldable technology.
ZTE has unveiled the nubia Z70S Ultra in China, an enhanced “S” upgrade to last year’s Z70 Ultra model. The new flagship device features significant improvements to its camera system and battery capacity while maintaining the same physical dimensions as its predecessor.
Enhanced Camera System
The Z70S Ultra uses a 50MP OmniVision Light Fusion 900 sensor for its main camera, replacing the smaller Sony IMX906 sensor found in the original Z70 Ultra. While it utilizes a fixed f/1.7 35mm lens instead of the variable aperture (f/1.6-f/4.0) of the previous version, the larger sensor size promises improved imaging capabilities.
The device retains a versatile camera array with a 64MP telephoto unit, and a 50MP ultra-wide camera with a 122° field of view and also capable of macro photography from distances as close as 2.5cm. There’s also a dedicated physical shutter button, which can quickly launch the camera application from a locked state.
Improved Battery and Premium Specifications
Battery capacity has been increased to 6,600mAh from the original’s 6,150mAh, while maintaining support for 80W wired charging. The device achieves this battery improvement without altering its dimensions of 164.3 × 77.1 × 8.6mm or significantly increasing its 228g weight.
The nubia Z70S Ultra boasts a 6.85″ OLED display with an under-display selfie camera. The screen offers 1,216 × 2,688 pixel resolution, 144Hz refresh rate, 10-bit color depth, and 100% DCI-P3 coverage. This generation upgrades to Gorilla Glass 7i protection, replacing the previous Longxi glass.
Ther device is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, complemented by LPDDR5X RAM and UFS 4.0 storage. Configuration options include 12GB/256GB, 16GB/512GB, 16GB/1TB, and a special 24GB/1TB edition.
The rear panel features nanotextured glass with a “calfskin” pattern, and the device carries IP68 and IP69 ratings for water and dust resistance.
Pricing and Availability
The nubia Z70S Ultra is priced at CNY 4,600 for the 12GB+256GB model, CNY 5,000 for the 16GB+512GB variant, CNY5,600 for twice that storage, and CNY6,300 for twice the amount of RAM. It’s set for a global launch on May 13.
Huawei is advancing its position in the artificial intelligence hardware sector with the development of a new high-performance AI processor. The Chinese technology giant is preparing to test its most powerful AI chip to date, named the Ascend 910D, which it hopes will serve as an alternative to high-end products from U.S. semiconductor leader NVIDIA.
Huawei’s New AI Chip
According to reports, Huawei has already initiated discussions with several Chinese technology companies for technical feasibility testing for the new processor. The company is optimistic that this latest iteration of its Ascend AI processor line will surpass the capabilities of NVIDIA’s H100, a chip that has been restricted from the Chinese market since 2022 due to U.S. export controls.
The first samples of the Ascend 910D processor are expected to be available for testing as early as late May. Additionally, Huawei plans to begin mass shipments of its 910C model, a predecessor to the new chip, to Chinese customers as soon as next month.
This development comes amid ongoing efforts by Chinese technology companies to reduce dependence on foreign semiconductor technology, as Washington has implemented measures to restrict China’s access to advanced AI chips. These restrictions which are designed to limit China’s technological advancement in sensitive areas and have prevented Chinese firms from acquiring NVIDIA’s most sophisticated AI products, including the flagship B200 chip.
Huawei and other Chinese chip manufacturers have faced significant challenges in their attempts to create processors that can match the performance of NVIDIA’s products for AI model training, a critical process in which algorithms learn from large datasets to make accurate decisions.
The CMF Phone 2 Pro is built around a 6.77-inch FHD+ AMOLED panel with a 120Hz refresh rate, which houses a 16MP front snapper.
Around the back, CMF by Nothing has spruced up the new device with a fresh, but familiar design and a triple rear camera. The back panel shares the same modular design as the CMF Phone 1, but the Phone 2 Pro has a two-tone design for the Orange and Grey colors.
The camera module houses a 50MP main snapper, a 50MP 2x telephoto lens, and an 8MP ultrawide camera. These are backed by the True Lens Engine 3, Nothing’s computational photography algorithm.
The modular design now also extends to the cameras as well, which includes an attachable macro and fish eye lenses.
Under the hood, the Phone 2 Pro is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7300 Pro and comes with 8GB RAM and up to 256GB storage.
The CMF Phone 2 Pro also features:
5000mAh battery
33W Fast Charge support
IP54 rating
It also boasts the company’s new Essential Key, which brings the Essential Space. Nothing promises 3 major Android upgrades and 6 years of security updates.
The announcement event confirmed that the second-generation Phone 2 Pro will be available via Digital Walker. We assume we’ll learn more about its local launch soon enough.
ASUS Republic of Gamers introduced its latest gaming monitors and other peripherals during the recent Embrace the Game event. In addition, ASUS announced its partnership with Crypton Future Media for the TUF Gaming x Hatsune Miku collection.
TUF Gaming x Hatsune Miku Collection
The TUF Gaming x Hatsune Miku collection brings a cybernetic fusion to gaming with a lineup that includes a headset, keyboard, mouse, and mouse pad. It features Miku’s signature blue-green and pink color scheme in the TUF Gaming mechanical-armor aesthetics.
TUF Gaming Mini Wireless Mouse Hatsune Miku Edition
The TUF Gaming Mini Wireless Mouse Hatsune Miku Edition is an ultralight 65g mouse with a form factor optimized for portability and comfort. It offers tri-mode connectivity and features up to 134 hours of battery life in Bluetooth mode. Its switches boast a 100-million-click lifespan for longevity.
It has Miku’s signature white, turquoise, and pink colors for a vibrant and playful vibe, embodying Miku’s spirit.
TUF Gaming K3 Gen II Keyboard Hatsune Miku Edition
The TUF Gaming K3 Gen II Hatsune Miku Edition gaming keyboard features Hatsune Miku’s signature color scheme. Additionally, it is built for durability with an IP57 waterproof and dust-resistant rating, protecting against spills and debris.
The optical-mechanical RGB switches offer a 100-million keystroke lifespan, while the advanced gasket mount design and dampening foam deliver a refined typing experience. The detachable top cover also allows for effortless customization and easy maintenance.
TUF Gaming H1 Gen II Headset Hatsune Miku Edition
The TUF Gaming H1 Gen II Hatsune Miku Edition gaming headset has 40mm ASUS Essence drivers to deliver immersive, rich and, deep bass. It also has virtual 7.1 surround sound and a TeamSpeak-certified microphone.
The headset of the TUF Gaming x Hatsune Miku collection is pretty lightweight at 297 grams and has a metal suspension headband.
TUF Gaming P1 Mousepad Hatsune Miku Edition
Last, and not least, is the TUF Gaming P1 mousepad Hatsune Miku Edition. It is a 360x260mm mousepad with a smooth and gaming-optimized cloth surface. Moreover, it features a water-resistant surface, anti-fray stitching, and a non-slip rubber base.
Pricing and Availability
The TUF Gaming x Hatsune Miku collection will officially arrive in the Philippines this Q2 2025. The SRP for the collection, though, will be announced at a later date.
ASUS Republic of Gamers (ROG) recently announced its new products at the Embrace the Game launch event held at Spacelab Manila Studio in Marikina City. These include new ROG OLED monitors, keyboards, mice, and headsets.
The ROG Swift OLED PG32UCDM boasts a 32-inch 4K QD-OLED panel with a 240Hz refresh rate. It offers vibrant colors and deep black hues thanks to its third-generation QD-OLED technology.
The monitor has a 0.03 ms response time, ensuring blur-free action and an advanced custom heatsink to reduce the likelihood of burn-in and improve the performance and longevity of the OLED panel.
The monitor is designed for gamers who demand the best.
See Ahead
The ROG Swift OLED PG27UCDM is a 27-inch 240Hz 4K gaming monitor that boasts the latest fourth-generation QD-OLED technology for super sharp visuals and crisp text.
The panel offers better longevity compared to previous OLED technologies and minimal flicker, even when frame rates fluctuate. It also features the Neo Proximity Sensor in the company’s new OLED Care Pro suite. It transitions to a black screen when no user is detected, to guard against burn-in.
Additionally, it features a built-in DisplayPort 2.1a UHBR20 provides a full 80Gbps bandwidth to support uncompressed 4K visuals at 240Hz.
Have it All
The ROG Swift OLED PG32UCDP is a 32-inch WOLED gaming monitor with a dual-mode feature that lets you switch between 4K@240Hz or FHD@480Hz visuals. The third-generation ROG OLED technology delivers vibrant colors, the deepest black hues, and the brightest highlights.
A 0.03 ms gray-to-gray (GTG) response time ensures blue-free action. Moreover, a new AI Assistant improves the gaming experience, while an advanced custom heatsink provides passive cooling performance.
World’s First Glossy WOLED Gaming Monitor
The 27-inch Strix OLED XG27AQDMG gaming monitor boasts an exclusive 1440p glossy WOLED panel with a 240Hz refresh rate, OLED Anti-flicker technology, and 0.03 GTG response time.
It also has a large custom heatsink and ASUS OLED Care functions.
360Hz QD-OLED Gaming Monitor
The 27-inch Strix OLED XG27ACDNG gaming monitor boasts an exclusive 1440p QD-OLED panel with a 360Hz refresh rate, OLED Anti-flicker technology, and 0.03ms GTG. There’s also a custom heatsink and ASUS OLED Care+ functions.
Crafted for Immersion
The ROG Azoth X is a 75% custom gaming keyboard built for gamers and keyboard enthusiasts who demand precision and versatility. It features hot-swappable ROG NX Mechanical Switches V2 and dye-sublimated Stellar-themed ROG keycaps.
A south-facing PCB ensures compatibility with a broad range of switches and keycaps, while five dampening pads, a gasket mount, and an FR4 positioning plate work to provide refined typing experiences.
The new keyboard boasts an OLED display with intuitive controls, tri-mode connectivity including 2.4GHz ROG SpeedNova technology, silicone wrist rest, three tilt angles, and Mac support.
All Around Battlestation
The ROG Strix Scope II X features hot-swappable ROG NX Mechanical Switches V2 with refined tuning, durable PBT doubleshot keycaps, or UV-coated ABS keycaps.
It also has multi-function quick controls, streaming hotkeys, and a detachable wrist rest.
Revolutionary Gaming Immersion
The ROG Delta II features tri-mode connectivity, low-latency 2.4 GHz connection, and 50mm titanium-plated diaphragm drivers.
It also comes with a 10mm super-wideband boom microphone and DualFlow Audio technology that allows you to listen to two sources simultaneously.
Precision with Style and Triple Protection for a Smooth Glide
The Keris II Origin wireless gaming mouse has an esports-pro-tested ergonomic shape and just weighs 65g. It has 3-zone RGB and other features to help you unleash your potential, no matter the game.
Meanwhile, the Scabbard II Arctic Gray XXL mouse pad is made out of a durable fabric with a protective coating that repels water, oil, and dust. It also features thinner and narrower flat-stitched sides.
Pricing and Availability
These products will be available in the Philippines in Q2 2025. The respective price tags will follow. Follow the official ASUS ROG social media channels – Facebook, Twitter, Instagram or the official website for more updates and information.
