Saturday, April 19, 2025

Infobip becomes Platinum Partner of Rakuten Viber

Infobip becomes Platinum Partner of Rakuten Viber

Infobip becomes Platinum Partner of Rakuten Viber
Gadgets Magazine

Global cloud communications platform Infobip has become a Platinum Partner of Rakuten Viber. As a Platinum Partner, Infobip will be able to offer its customers early access to new products and features, as well as priority access to a knowledge center. Infobip’s elevation to Platinum Partner marks another achievement in its ongoing mission to enhance digital communication strategies for businesses worldwide.

Rakuten Viber CEO Ofir Eyal presented Infobip with Viber’s Platinum Partnership Excellence Award at a recent Infobip and Rakuten Viber event. This recognition highlights groundbreaking innovation, significant business growth, and the strong collaboration between Infobip and Rakuten Viber.

Cristina Constandache, chief revenue officer at Rakuten Viber, said: “At Rakuten Viber, we believe that strong partnerships are key to driving mutual growth. Our collaboration with Infobip has fuelled significant innovation and expansion. Infobip achieving the Platinum Partnership status shows our shared commitment to revolutionizing customer engagement with advanced technology and integrated communication solutions.”

Silvija Renuša, business unit head of digital channels at Infobip, said: “The strong partnership between Infobip and Viber underscores our shared commitment to future-focused, seamless customer experiences. We’re proud to have reached the Platinum Partner status in the Rakuten Viber Partner Growth Program, and we look forward to continuing working closely with Viber and shaping the future of customer engagement together.”

Over eight years, Rakuten Viber has integrated with Infobip’s platform, becoming a key OTT channel. The collaboration has enabled businesses to use Viber for direct, rich media interactions with customers, enhancing user experiences, and helping customers in their digital transformation journey. 

One recent example is Metrobank, the second-largest private universal bank in the Philippines. Metrobank partnered with Infobip to integrate Viber rich business messaging into its customer communication strategy, enhancing its operations with a trusted and secure digital platform. Utilizing Infobip’s plug-and-play solution, Metrobank seamlessly incorporated Viber business messages into its existing processes with minimal effort. In no time, the bank began delivering personalized, rich content messages, including images and videos, to millions of consenting customers. This strategic move not only created a unique customer experience but also resulted in up to 50% cost savings compared to traditional SMS messaging, as Metrobank effectively communicated its latest offerings through Viber’s rich media capabilities. 

Ramon Martin Rodriguez, performance marketing head at Metrobank, said: “Infobip provided a solution that enabled us to quickly start benefitting from using Viber for Business for sending marketing messages, using both a portal and an integration with our CRM system. The integration was extremely easy to set up with no disruption to our businesses processes, and no requirement to involve technical resources from other departments. We have been very satisfied with the entire process.”

Learn more about the Metrobank success story: https://www.infobip.com/customer/metrobank 

Infobip becomes Platinum Partner of Rakuten Viber
Gadgets Magazine

Friday, April 18, 2025

The only F1 cars you can actually take home

The only F1 cars you can actually take home

The only F1 cars you can actually take home
Gadgets Magazine

Formula 1 is back with another adrenaline-pumping season, and for fans in the Philippines, the excitement isn’t just on screen but also in stores. This year, the LEGO® Group is bringing the high-speed action of F1 back to the Philippines with a weekend of hands-on F1 fun at the LEGO Certified Store (LCS) in Ayala Malls Manila Bay.

This is your chance to build, play, and race some of the most legendary F1-inspired LEGO sets as the motorsport world celebrates its 75th season. Whether you’re a racing fan, a LEGO collector, or just love a good speed challenge, Build the Thrill: Pick, Build, Race gives you the ultimate hands-on experience — no pit stop required! Plus, there’s no purchase necessary to join the fun. Simply pick from the box, build your car, and see how fast you can race it.

And if you’ve ever dreamed of owning an F1 car, this is as close as it gets. Filipino fans can now bring home iconic sets – from the Ferrari SF-24 to the Oracle Red Bull Racing RB20 F1 set – all without the million-peso price tag. 

Rev Up for the Ultimate Race at Ayala Malls Manila Bay

The high-speed action continues at the LEGO® Certified Store in Ayala Malls Manila Bay, with special events happening all month until April 30. Mark your calendars for these weekend highlights:

LEGO Make & Take for Adults on April 26 & 27

Kick off the weekend by building your very own LEGO F1 Steering Wheel, a must-have for any F1 enthusiast.

  • Build & Race Challenge (Parent + Child): Race against the clock to build your fastest LEGO® F1 car in 10 minutes! Winners receive LEGO Speed Champions sets worth up to PHP4,000, with bonus prizes for runners-up.
  • LEGO F1 Beat My Time Challenge (Ages 10+): Bring your own LEGO Speed Champions F1 car and compete on the official racetrack. The five fastest racers will qualify for the finals and take home LEGO F1 sets and gear. 

Slots are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Stubs will be distributed as soon as the store opens, so be sure to arrive early! More details at the annex.

More Reasons to Race In

On top of all the action, enjoy up to 30% off on select LEGO F1 sets and receive a free LEGO polybag when you spend at least PHP2,500 in-store.

Don’t miss the weekly Make & Take activities in LEGO Certified Stores (Alabang Town Center & Manila Bay). You may also visit all leading toy stores near you or through official LEGO stores online such as bankeebricks.ph, Lazada, and Shopee.

To learn more about the LEGO Group, check out www.lego.com.

The only F1 cars you can actually take home
Gadgets Magazine

Sunday, April 6, 2025

JMEV models officially on PH shores

JMEV models officially on PH shores

JMEV models officially on PH shores
Gadgets Magazine

JMC Philippines, under Astara, expands and enhances its tough pickup range with the introduction of the JMEVs. From adventure-ready models to workhorses, JMC brings the JMEVs, offering a versatile selection for both eco-conscious buyers and those seeking durable, high-performance vehicles.

The lineup includes the EV2 and EV3, new models that showcase advanced electric mobility, poised to elevate the Philippine automotive segment.

  • JMEV EV2: A compact, efficient electric vehicle designed for urban mobility, providing an impressive range and energy savings for city commuters.
  • JMEV EV3: A versatile, family-friendly electric model with a spacious interior and advanced features, perfect for those seeking performance without sacrificing sustainability.
JMEV

“The addition of the JMEV to JMC Philippines’ existing product lineup not only strengthens the brand’s commitment to providing diverse, high-quality vehicles but also marks a bold step toward embracing cleaner, more energy-efficient transportation solutions for Filipino drivers,” said M.J. del Pilar, sales director of JMC Philippines.

The JMEVs will soon be available in JMC dealerships, bringing JMC and JMEV vehicles closer to Filipinos nationwide.

Stay tuned for further details on the pricing, features, and availability of the JMEV via JMC Philippines’ official channels:

JMEV models officially on PH shores
Gadgets Magazine

Thursday, March 13, 2025

Visa and PHLPost sign agreement to enhance financial services for underserved filipinos

Visa and PHLPost sign agreement to enhance financial services for underserved filipinos

Visa and PHLPost sign agreement to enhance financial services for underserved filipinos
Gadgets Magazine

Visa, a global leader in digital payments, has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Philippine Postal Corporation (PHLPost) aimed at expanding access to financial services for Filipinos, particularly those in underserved sectors such as rural communities. 

Under the agreement, Visa will utilize its innovation in digital payments as well as its global payments network to explore opportunities with PHLPost in modernizing and expanding the reach of its financial services, which include handling remittances and money orders for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) as well as disbursement of healthcare subsidies, social welfare payments, and disaster relief.  

Visa and PHLPost will also explore opportunities to enhance business and financial literacy for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), as well as share best practices in making financial transactions more seamless, secure, and accessible. 

The PHLPost remains committed to providing essential postal and financial services to Filipinos, especially those in remote and or Filipinos abroad. Through this collaboration with Visa, PHLPost aims to enhance its financial offerings by integrating digital payment solutions, improving transaction efficiency, and ensuring greater security for its customers through good governance. By modernizing its services, PHLPost seeks to bridge the financial gap for communities that rely on its extensive network across the country.

Visa and PHLPost sign agreement to enhance financial services for underserved filipinos
Gadgets Magazine

Monday, March 10, 2025

Why the Winner X Is the ultimate motorcycle upgrade you deserve

Why the Winner X Is the ultimate motorcycle upgrade you deserve

Why the Winner X Is the ultimate motorcycle upgrade you deserve
Gadgets Magazine

The thrill of the open road is calling, and there’s no better way to answer than with The New Winner X—a powerhouse ride that seamlessly blends sportiness, power, and efficiency. Designed for daily commuters and weekend road warriors, the Winner X is more than just an upgrade; it’s a statement. With its muscular aesthetics, advanced features, and thrilling performance, it is built to give riders the edge they need while ensuring fuel efficiency remains uncompromised. If you’re looking for the perfect upgrade to satisfy your natural wanderlust, here are some indications why this sports cub is the ideal ride for you.

Weekend Ride is the New Quality Time

Whether it’s a scenic weekend getaway or a quick city escape to mountain roads and highlands, the Winner X makes every ride an adventure. With its 149cc 4-Stroke, 4-Valve DOHC engine delivering 11.5kW max power @ 9,000rpm and 13.5Nm max torque @ 7,000 pm, this bike also ensures you enjoy thrilling acceleration, especially if cruising a coastal highway ride. What better way to enjoy a nature trip than Winner X? Its fuel efficiency rating of 52.3km/L based on the World Motorcycle Test Cycle (WMTC) is another reason to go for an adventure for days without overspending your gas budget. Powerful yet efficient, The New Winner X’s engine ensures smooth acceleration. At the same time, the ABS-equipped variants provide better control and stability for a confident, safe, and worry-free ride on any road.

You Appreciate Quiet Confidence

If taking a pit stop to underrated destinations, Winner X not only boasts speed but it also delivers refinement and convenience with its ergonomic seat design, making long journeys like you’re on top of the world. Its Assist and Slipper Clutch feature provides smoother gear shifts and prevents rear-wheel locking during sudden downshifts, making every ride more controlled and effortless. It’s not also a road trip if it means being disconnected for long hours. That is why its USB charging feature for ABS variants means you can use your phone for route planning, capturing memorable moments, or even music.  Additionally, its smart key system and built-in safety sensor are designed for added security and convenience, enhancing Winner X’s practicality and ease of use.  

You Value Acceleration and Stability

Craving for a true cross-country adventure while riding a bike that is designed for endurance? The New Winner X is undoubtedly the ride to take on this trip, as its ABS and liquid-cooled engine provide a perfect balance of safety and durability. Whether it’s a route that involves long highway rides with sudden stops in busy areas with twisting and slippery mountain roads, the ABS also ensures safe braking, preventing skidding on downhill sections. Lastly, making intermittent stops to high altitude destinations also promises a trip of a lifetime as Winner X’s liquid-cooled system ensures a smooth performance under extreme heat or braking on tricky roads.  

You Value Looks but Still Look for Comfort

From camping and beach trips to road trips, The New Winner X isn’t just about performance—it’s about style and ease of use. With its fully Digital Meter Panel, Smart Key System, and an All-LED Lighting System, it enhances visibility and convenience for every ride. Furthermore, the Anti-Theft Alarm and Answer Back System provide extra security, ensuring peace of mind wherever you go. Its sleek digital display, smart key system, and all-LED lighting enhance visibility and convenience, while an anti-theft alarm ensures security. Aside from its sharp lines and sculpted fairings that give the Winner X a sporty, race-inspired look, its three distinct variants are designed to deliver a legendary ride.  

WInner X

The Standard Variant (SRP PHP123,900), available in Pearl Iceberg White and Infinity Red, features dynamic sporty decals that create a bold and energetic look. 

The ABS Premium (SRP PHP129,900), offered in Matte Galaxy Black Metallic and Matte Meteoric Red Metallic, exudes a refined and premium aesthetic with its gold 3D Winner X emblem. 

Meanwhile, the ABS Racing variant (SRP PHP131,900), which comes in Infinity Red, delivers an unmistakable sports bike image, further enhanced by a 3D emblem and gold cast wheel color for a truly standout presence.

The New Winner X is not just a motorcycle—it’s an invitation to ride with power, precision, and confidence. Whether you’re upgrading from your first bike or looking for a ride that offers both power and practicality, the Winner X delivers an exhilarating and reliable experience on the road. Ready to take on the road? Ride Like a Champion with the Honda Winner X today!

For more information, visit www.hondaph.com. Stay updated on Honda’s newest products and promos by following Honda Philippines, Inc. on Facebook and Instagram, YouTube, and Tiktok or contact (02)-8581-6700 to 6799, and 0917-884-6632.

Why the Winner X Is the ultimate motorcycle upgrade you deserve
Gadgets Magazine