Wednesday, January 14, 2026

Lenovo Unveils Qira and Next-Gen AI Devices at CES 2026

At CES 2026, Lenovo delivered one of its most ambitious showcases yet, revealing a sweeping lineup of AI-powered devices and futuristic concepts designed to redefine how people work, play, and stay connected. Spanning gaming, mobile, consumer, and commercial portfolios, Lenovo’s latest innovations highlight a clear vision: personal AI that works seamlessly across every device in a user’s digital life.

At the heart of Lenovo’s presentation was Lenovo and Motorola Qira, a Personal Ambient Intelligence System engineered to function across PCs, smartphones, tablets, and wearables. Qira is designed to follow users wherever they go, allowing them to pick up tasks exactly where they left off, receive contextual assistance, and interact with their devices more naturally. Importantly, Lenovo emphasized that Qira operates with strong user control and privacy, ensuring data remains secure while still delivering highly personalized AI experiences.

Motorola also took center stage with an expanded lineup of premium smartphones, including new flagship and limited-edition models. These devices integrate Qira’s personal AI features alongside advanced camera systems, reinforcing Motorola’s focus on intelligent photography, productivity, and lifestyle integration.

Lenovo further pushed the boundaries of innovation with a range of proof-of-concept devices. Highlights included the ThinkPad Rollable XD Concept, which features a dynamic, expandable display; Project Kubit, a Lenovo Personal AI Hub; Lenovo AI Glasses; and Motorola’s Project Maxwell, a wearable AI companion designed to provide real-time, hands-free assistance.

In the gaming space, Lenovo continued to strengthen its Legion ecosystem. The company unveiled the Legion Pro Rollable Concept and officially launched the Legion Go Gen 2 powered by SteamOS, giving PC gamers a more console-like handheld experience. Lenovo also refreshed its Legion and LOQ gaming laptops, bringing more AI-driven performance tuning and thermal management to competitive players.

For consumers and creators, Lenovo introduced updated Yoga and IdeaPad devices, including the Yoga Pro 9i Aura Edition ecosystem and the Yoga AIO i Aura Edition desktop. These devices focus on creativity, cross-device continuity, and premium design, making it easier for users to move between laptop, tablet, and desktop workflows.

On the commercial side, Lenovo announced new AI-powered ThinkPad and ThinkCentre Aura Edition models, optimized for performance, security, and modern enterprise IT environments. These systems are built to support hybrid work, AI workloads, and stricter data protection requirements.

To cap off its CES 2026 showcase, Lenovo also introduced FIFA World Cup 26™ Special Edition devices across its ThinkPad, ThinkBook, Yoga, Legion, Idea, and Motorola portfolios—bringing a global sporting celebration into its hardware ecosystem.

With Qira and its expanding AI-first device lineup, Lenovo is clearly positioning itself at the forefront of personal, cross-device intelligence in 2026 and beyond.

First Successful Data Download via Satellite: Smart, Lynk Link Up Catanduanes via Direct-To-Device Satellite Pilot

Leading integrated telco network PLDT Inc (PLDT)'s wireless arm Smart Communications, Inc (Smart), and its technology partner Lynk Global have successfully tested Direct-to-Device satellite service in the island of Catanduanes in the Bicol region, demonstrating the technology's potential in providing mobile services even in areas where cell services are unavailable.

"Our investments in technologies that strengthen and expand our network all reflect our core mission to connect last-mile communities, empower them to participate in the digital economy, and ensure that no Filipino is left behind," said PLDT Chief Operating Officer Menardo G. Jimenez.

"With 97 percent of the population already covered by our cellular network, it is important that we evaluate our satellite partners based on not just their technology but also cost effectiveness. Our partnership with Lynk Global delivers both," Jimenez added.

The tests, conducted by Smart's Network Strategy and Architecture Team with Lynk's technical team in the remote barangay of Marambong in the Municipality of Pandan, directly facing the Philippine Sea, involved the successful transmission via Lynk satellite of text messages between a phone in Catanduanes and a phone in Metro Manila, as well as between two phones located within Catanduanes province. During the test, the teams were also able to access Smart's website, demonstrating Lynk satellite's light data capabilities, which will continue to evolve toward full data service.

This milestone follows the successful signing of a Master Services Agreement between Smart and Lynk last October, which formalized the partnership between the two companies.

“Smart and Lynk will continue to conduct these tests as Lynk's technology matures, more Lynk satellites are deployed, and service availability significantly improves,” said Radames Zalameda, Head of the Network Strategy and Transformation Office at Smart.

“This year, we are also pushing for extensive tests across more areas and diverse use cases, including maritime routes, as we gear up for a commercial launch next year,” said Lloyd R. Manaloto, First Vice President at Smart.

An island located more than 360 kilometers southeast of Manila, Catanduanes still has many unserved areas due to its challenging topography, making it extra difficult to roll out telco infrastructure, among other factors. Recently, the island was also severely impacted by typhoons Tino and Uwan, which caused significant damage to power and telco infrastructure and left residents without service for an extended period.

“Once commercially available, Smart's direct-to-device service, enabled by Lynk’s fully deployed satellites, will enable us to respond quickly in emergency situations, ensuring affected Filipinos remain connected via satellite despite adverse conditions,” Zalameda added.

Smart’s push to lead in next-generation technologies reflects the PLDT Group’s broader commitment to building a safer, more connected, and more resilient digital nation. These efforts, anchored on innovation and public service, support the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal No. 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, and advance the Group’s contribution to the national digital agenda and the country’s overall disaster preparedness and resilience framework.

Canadian-Persian Artist Daijo Shapes the Future of Melodic Techno and Beyond

Canadian producer Daijo has emerged as one of the country’s most distinctive voices in electronic music, known for blending melodic techno and house with deeply emotional storytelling. His work reflects a commitment to creating music that moves both body and soul, offering listeners immersive soundscapes that are as introspective as they are rhythmically compelling. Born to an Iranian refugee mother and raised in Hamburg, Germany, Daijo now calls Vancouver, Canada, home. 

His international upbringing informs his musical perspective, allowing him to craft soundscapes that are both universal and intimately personal. Across his back-catalogue, Daijo explores themes of the human experience, layering emotion onto pulsating beats and lush melodic frameworks that invite audiences into his world.

Renowned for his live performances and sold-out headlines in North America, Daijo seamlessly transitions from intimate club settings to festival stages, consistently captivating audiences with his soulful, intentional approach. His grasp of melody, rhythm, and emotional nuance makes it impossible not to get lost in the intricate sonic tapestries he creates.

Releasing on several of the world’s most respected electronic labels, Daijo is at the forefront of the global electronic music community while remaining true to his unique artistic identity. With a growing catalogue of emotionally resonant tracks and a vision for a full-length album in the future, Daijo continues to establish himself as a producer capable of creating music that transcends boundaries and connects listeners across cultures.

Daijo’s past single, “Goodbye”, released on Hardwell’s Revealed Recordings, marks a bold and personal step forward in his artistic journey. “Goodbye is a story about love and loss – about that moment you realize that letting go is the only way forward,” explains Daijo. “Anyone who’s ever cared deeply for someone will feel that.” The track combines his signature melodic sensibilities with emotive textures, creating a sonic meditation on moving forward that resonates globally.

Monday, January 12, 2026

Anko Kicks Off 2026 With Decluttering and Storage Workshop for Filipino Homes

As 2026 begins, many Filipino families are embracing a renewed desire for a cleaner, calmer, and more organized home. After the busy holiday season filled with gatherings, guests, and everyday clutter, the new year offers the perfect opportunity to reset. Tapping into this fresh start mindset, Anko, Australia’s popular home and lifestyle brand, recently hosted a Decluttering and Storage Workshop at Anko TriNoma, helping households build smarter, more sustainable organization habits.

The workshop was led by Christine Dychiao, the first Filipina KonMari®-certified consultant and founder of Tidying From Within. Instead of promoting a once-a-year overhaul, the session focused on practical, affordable storage solutions that make daily living easier. Dychiao showed how Anko’s storage products can be used in different areas of the home, from bedrooms and bathrooms to kitchens and shared family spaces, making organization more accessible for Filipino households.

The event also marked Anko’s first community-focused activity of 2026, highlighting the brand’s commitment to improving everyday living through quality products at budget-friendly prices.

Start With the Spaces That Matter Most

According to Dychiao, the best place to begin decluttering is the area that affects your daily routine the most. “Start with the area that already overwhelms you. It could be your bedroom, your bathroom, or your closet. When that one space feels calmer, it changes the tone of your entire day,” she explained.

In bedrooms, Anko’s Bed Linen Boxes and Underbed Shoe Organizers help maximize space while keeping essentials tidy and easily accessible. These storage solutions reduce visual clutter and make mornings more efficient.

Storage That Looks Good and Works Well

Dychiao also emphasized the importance of choosing storage that blends naturally into your home. Instead of purely utilitarian bins, warm neutrals, textured finishes, and linen-look materials create a more relaxed and intentional feel. Anko’s baskets and organizers are designed to complement different home styles while still offering functional storage.

In the kitchen, clear turntables, fridge organizers, and spinning trays keep frequently used items visible and accessible. These tools not only save time but also help reduce food waste by making it easier to see what you already have.

Organization as Everyday Wellness

Beyond keeping spaces neat, organizing supports mental and emotional well-being. A well-arranged home reduces stress, improves daily flow, and encourages healthier habits. From neatly stored food containers to visible self-care essentials, small organization choices can have a big impact.

With its affordable and stylish storage solutions, Anko continues to support Filipino families as they embrace a fresh start in 2026. Through regular workshops and accessible home products, the brand is making everyday living brighter, calmer, and more organized.

Friday, January 9, 2026

Vivo X300 Series Brings Concert Moments Closer With Powerful Stage Mode 2.0

MANILA, PHILIPPINES — The best concerts aren’t just watched; they’re felt. For fans and content creators who live for capturing unforgettable moments from the crowd, Vivo introduces the X300 Series—a smartphone built to transform distant, fast-paced concert scenes into vivid, front-row stories worth sharing.

Designed specifically for live events, the Vivo X300 Series delivers a major leap in mobile videography with its enhanced Stage Mode 2.0. This feature supports up to 30x video zoom while maintaining impressive clarity, stability, and detail—even amid dramatic lighting changes, nonstop movement, and high-energy performances. Whether you’re filming from the middle of the crowd or the back of the venue, the X300 Series ensures every moment stays sharp and immersive.

The concert-ready capabilities of the Vivo X300 Series were recently showcased in a viral TikTok video by Ms. Liu Lu, Brand Marketing Director of Vivo Philippines. Filmed during a live New Year’s Eve performance at “The 5th,” the video captured pulsating lights, sweeping stage movements, and booming audio with remarkable precision. The real-world footage demonstrated how the X300 Series doesn’t just keep up with live concerts—it elevates the entire viewing experience.

Zooming in without dropping the beat

Concerts are fast, unpredictable, and full of emotion. Artists jump across the stage, lights flash in sync with the music, and crowds move as one. The Vivo X300 Series rises to the challenge by allowing users to zoom in deeply without sacrificing atmosphere or motion. During G22’s live performance at #NYEAtThe5th, the smartphone once again proved its strength, delivering immersive zoomed-in footage that pulled viewers closer without disrupting the rhythm of the moment.

Beyond its powerful zoom, the Vivo X300 Series offers advanced features that help users tell richer stories. The 4K Stage All-in-One Recording captures crisp, detailed footage even in highly dynamic environments, making every replay feel as immersive as being there. Dual-View Stage Video records using two cameras simultaneously, allowing users to capture the full stage while also including personal reactions for more engaging content. Meanwhile, 4K 60fps Portrait Video delivers smooth, high-quality videos with natural depth and background blur—perfect for close-up concert moments.

From massive stadium shows to intimate street performances, countdown concerts to unforgettable encores, the Vivo X300 Series removes distance from memory-making. Priced starting at Php 67,999, the Vivo X300 Series is available at Vivo concept stores nationwide and through official online channels.