Will.I.Am and LG Philippines Launch LG XBoom AI Line

The energy was high as LG Philippines welcomed the one and only Will I Am to Manila's shores, a one in a lifetime experience for all the fans of music producer and artist. He's also a stalwart of education for underserved students around the world, now putting his experience to the LG XBOOM AI line.

He started the event by reminiscing how many times he's been in the country for shows, and how the Filipinos have gone to support them during their early years as a group with BEP, and his best friend Apl D Ap. He also mentioned how he has been in the audio business as one of the first few folks who worked in the most popular one years ago, and this came at the most opportune time. See he didn't just use LG when they got connected this year, but it has been a regular household name for him and his family. He's got plenty of home appliances that bear the same name and yes, he wants a cohesive home which this will definitely complete. The LG XBoom Bounce is for those who are always listening to music. It has a nice form and has got 30 hours of playtime, and really good bass if you are the outdoorsy type. The LG XBoom Grab on the other hand  is very light, has over 20 hours of battery and is good for outdoors, you won't get too tired working out or enjoying a day with friends and family. For those who prefer the LG XBoom Stage, it's the perfect karaoke companion of you're into voice performances or busking. It can last 12 hours of battery, you can host shows, entertain guests like there's no tomorrow. I've also been using the new LG XBoom Buds which are so good for listening to music, podcasts and even meetings when I feel like it. 

They also have AI which they plan to go improve in the coming weeks, and Will.I.Am even showed us what it could possibly do in the coming months. He was getting interviewed in English during one part of the program, but then changed it to English without the need for other things to do it. 

Just imagine the things it can do in the future as they develop more things for the devices, speakers and app, the whole LG environment too. Will.I.Am also revealed some back stories for those hit songs you love from the whole Black Eyed Peas and the individual artists that they're with in the group.

Here's the whole conversation we had with him at OKADA. 

If you want to know more about these new speakers from the Will.I.Am LG XBoom AI line, visit their official site or social channels because they'll be putting out content about it there too!

12.12 Steals, Deals and Everything Between at Shopee

I know it's almost 12, but can't just stand around and do nothing. So the best thing to do is give you a few things you could consider getting from Shopee. There's tons of things around, but since I've attended their event a few days ago, I've come to a conclusion that there's no escaping the deals and steals they have, so just give in and shop. Let's go and click the links to the actual product on the app!

TECNO SPARK 20

 

This is the upgraded version of the previous SPARK series, but made affordable. It regularly is priced Php 5,599, pretty good hardware for gaming. So if your boyfriend, brother, husband needs on this holidays, this is the time to get it. They also have the Spark 20 Pro out before the year ends, so if not the Spark 20, get the other one instead.

SONY ZV 1

If you're looking to up your vlogging game, one of the most loved brands of cameras actually come from SONY. This ZV-1 has a 20.1 Megapixel 1 inch type sensor, real time tracking, eye auto focus, a bokeh switch (so you are not lens dependent), a directional mic with wind screen so you don't need that furry cover for it. This also supports 4K, comes with a 64GB SD card which is already good, but you always can have more to save those precious moments on travels and adventures. Costs around 40 ish, dependent on the accessories you include it with.

HONOR Smartphones 

HONOR has several phones on sale this 12.12. Some products will also be 50 percent OFF which is really huge if you're out to get a phone. The HONOR X9a 5G is one that I use, and quite abuse, but it's one of the toughest phones I've ever had and I've used it for coverages and interviews. I could say this is much for the clumsy ones, I admit, I've dropped it a few times and it didn't get dent or damaged whatsoever. I've seen this be run over by a car during the launch (as I was there) and it's a pretty tough cookie. The HONOR 90 on the other hand is good for photos, if you're much into that in your socials, it would be better to get that instead.

REALME 11

Their best phone currently is the Realme 11. It's very pretty colorwise, has ample screen resolution, high screen to body ratio, bright and tough with a Corning Gorilla Glass 5. You can get 8GB RAM with it, and they're running a promo when the clock strikes 12 on 12.12. I would suggest you get this if you're more into video. You can also do a bit of gaming with it with ease, I've had an older model that still works but I suggest you don't drop it as much because glass is glass. They also give freebies, so check their offers if they have them on special dates.

 POCO F5

Meet the POCO F5. This is an 8GB phone with a 256GB internal storage. It also comes in a 12GB, 256GB version too plus a 1 year warranty. That's how confident they are with the product. It's got a Snapdragon 7 Gen 2 processor and a 120Hz Flow AMOLED so you won't get lags on your heavy games. Yes, it's definitely the one to look out for if you're into playing all day long because the technology it employs on RAM is quite different, uses fast flash memory. The back camera is powerful too when zoomed in, image quality is quite sufficient. It also employs dual stabilization tech so those videos you take won't get you dizzy. It has propreitary film filters for a more vintage look on photos. It looks and feels slim too with the bezel design and the colors on display is phenomenal. They also deliver fast than usual, so go give it a try if you're looking for something that could do your games. At 44 percent off just on this date, this would really make a good buy.

JBL PARTYBOX

 

Best gift for audiophiles, or people who just enjoy music. Take the enjoyment up a notch and make it a full blown party with the JBL Partybox 310 which is a portable party speaker. This would be the perfect hardware for your next Karaoke parties that could host even a community. If you're not keen on always renting out sound system (which are a bit expensive these days), JBL has these Party Box products that has mic and guitar ports so you can do music, connect to bluetooth, and have huge battery life. They also have a the JBL Soundgear Sense which is best for those who want private time, with the best sound quality as only JBL can. Imagine the fun you'll have with this in your Christmas parties, or anywhere, because you can bring the party anytime, anywhere with JBL! 

And if that's not enough, the JBL Barkada Travel Tunes promo is on. If you get their products (min. 3000), you get raffle entries that entitle you to win travel packages for 4 people to Tokyo, Japan, Seoul, Korea, El Nido in Palawan, or Siargao down south. Go get them at JBL concept stores nationwide or then send your valid proof of purchase at jblchirstmaspromo.com. Details for the promo are also on the site. Aside from that, they've got JBL Soundfest happening on the 15th, with artists Al James, Tigerlily, Adie, Horizon, Kamikazee and Parokya ni Edgar.

I have already posted the links on top of the photos, if you're raring to shop this 12.12 season on Shopee, you better add to cart as early as now. In a few hours, it's going to make you sweat, so give in to these steals and deals this Christmas season!

ACG's Beyond Borders International Tax Conference Slated June 15

It was certainly one of the nicest conversations over lunch last week when we got to be in the midst of Tax Whiz Mon Abrea (the Chairman and CEO of Asian Consulting Group) and Jose Magsaysay Jr., a founding member of Association of Filipino Franchisors, Inc. and owner of the country's favorite fries, Potato Corner. 

Fresh from the US and his Harvard Kennedy School studies, Mr. Abrea started telling us about how excited he is about the upcoming International Tax Conference in the Philippines entitled BEYOND BORDERS which will be hosted by the Asian Consulting Group (ACG) which he heads. It will be held on the 15th of June 2023 at I'm Hotel in Makati Avenue, Makati City. Issues regarding global taxes, best practices, local and international regulations, policies, it's digitalization will be discussed by esteemed experts and leaders from across the globe. Speakers include those from The World Bank, Asian Development Bank, the International Monetary Fund, United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, OECD, Department of Budget and Management and the Senate.

Mr. Magsaysay also shared anecdotes about how he started the very successful Potato Corner and how they also weathered the pandemic. To say the least, his story was really inspiring, including the reason why he's supporting Mr. Abrea and his initiatives.

 

Mr. Abrea also feels this would be beneficial for those in government institutions, private corporations since it will include third party organization with real concrete data not driven by personalities or politicians. Information about the Philippines will be presented (I heard) without prejudice. 

Surely, it'll be interesting to hear about that as well. If you're interested, you may get in touch with them via itc@acg.ph or their contact number 09176278805.

See you there!

Discounts on ROG and ASUS Products This 10.10 Shopee Brand Festival

If you're looking for computer peripherals, laptops, good news is that ASUS and ROG is joining this year's 10.10 Shopee Brands Festival. What that means is that you ca enjoy 10 percent discounts and Php 150 Free shipping on thier best Vivobooks, Zenbooks, Zenfones, Zephyrus, Strix G, TUF Dash and ExpertBook Laptops. They're also going to include discounts on their Zenfone 8 Flip and monstrous gaming phone ROG Phone 5.

I found several gaming monitors, laptops, ROG Flow X13, AiMesh Routers and Optical Disk Drives on thier official store, so if you're looking for one, might as well start here! ( https://shp.ee/zc6iwtx ). They've got liquid coolers, webcams, speakers and keyboards, so you've pretty much covered all you need in one place.

I'm suing the new ASUS VivoBook S14 which has made my office work so easy, plus I could also do a few games when I'm stressed or need a little break from the pandemic stress we're all under in. You'll be surprised at how much they've taken off these devices, they're good people and when they mean discount, they really do it.

Few Days Left for Dare to Listen, Dare to Drive Promo

JBL has always been the premier brand to go to when wireless bluetooth speakers are being talked about. They have a promo going on so you have about a few days up until January 15, 2019 to join the Dare to Listen, Dare to Drive promo which will get you the chance to win a brand new JBL Party Box 300, JBL Boombox, a 5 night Genting Dream Cruise to Singapore for 2 and a new orange MINI Cooper (3 door hatch). Now if the prizes got your attention, here’s how you can join.

All you have to do is purchase JBL, Harman Kardon, AKG products in over 200 participating stores nationwide. This includes their portable speakers, headphones, soundbars and different audio products. They will draw the winners on February 19, 2019 at the JBL Harman Office in Quezon City so if you haven’t bought yourself a gift this Christmas, the new year would be a good reason to do so. You can even win these prizes so follow their social media channels @jblph for more details.

Now don’t take my word for it, go rush to their stores and win that car bub!

KUMAGCOW

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Join JBL Live with Stephen Curry

The holidays seem to be not over yet at the most popular wireless brand and manufacturer of superior speakers give you another reason to buy with the JBL Live with Stephen Curry promo. The Golden State Warriors superstar and NBA phenom will be playing at the Oracle Arena on February 10, 2018. 

The only thing you have to do is purchase speakers from November 13 to January 7, 2018 in all participating JBL, Harman Kardon and AKG stores and get their participating products in single receipt purchases. You'll get 1 raffle coupon if you purchase 5K below, get 2 if you purchase 5K to 10K, get 3 raffle coupons if you get 10K-15K, 4 if you get 20-30K, and 5 if you go over that. That means the more you purchase products in their stores, the closer to that US trip you're going to be. You'll also get reserved seating at the Oracle Arena, a round trip airfare, and hotel accomodations. Isn't that a good thing to win?

Winners will be drawn on January 15, 2018 at the JBL office in Quezon City and will be announced in their channels. Make sure you follow their FB page JBL Philippines and their IG and Twitter accounts @jblph because it's all going to be posted there too! 

KUMAGCOW

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Up To 70% OFF in DIGITAL WALKER's Christmas Comes Early Year 2!

These are the times whe you want to say I'm glad I'm alive. 

If you are just like me, one who's working really hard these past few months, who's saving up a few pesos just to purchase the latest gadgets, devices and accessories so you could live a comfortable life, this is the BEST news you'll ever want to hear. Our favorite store Digital Walker is going to have their annual CHRISTMAS COMES EARLY SALE at the SM Megatrade Hall 3 this coming October 6-8, 2017. That's this coming weekend so if you've got plans, DROP ALL YOUR THINGS and head on to this venue THIS COMING WEEKEND.

What's up for grabs? Imagine those internationally sourced quality products be sold at a whopping 70% OFF. I am literally shaking from excitement already and I haven't even looked at what they have on sale but judging from the experiences my friends had last year, they saved a ton of pesos. They went out of that place carrying an ish load of trolleys full of gadgets an accessories. I was so envious of these people I had to make sure I'm going to be there this year. 

I'm looking for a good Power Bank and these lovely Ye!! Power Banks might be a good start. I've had one and it lasted for quite a long time, I like how it charges fast, displays the status and the way to turn it on. I simply plug in my device and the cable, then shake the actual power bank to turn ON. They also have the BUBBLE which is a power bank and Bluetooth Speaker in one, which you can use for hours on the beach, at play or even while taking a shower. Those song numbers you'll be singing would be better with real music right?

If you're a little choosy, you may opt for those Braven Bluetooth Speakers that have been raved about around the world, might be even better than the leading brand at a fraction of the cost. It's going to be on sale too so if you want to please your boyfriends, get them this one. They have models that are also waterproof, really tough, and looks cool too. If your lady wants something like that, get them these yummy looking CORN Bluetooth Speakers from Ye!!

It's IP65 certified, splash, dust and impact resistant. Those adventure trails you often go to won't be too silent and you would be able to play songs for about 6 hours if wired and about 4 hours on Bluetooth. Man, I wanna get them all!

They are also selling high quality earphones, Apple and Android accessories, phone cases, wireless IP Cameras, phone and car accessories. That's just the tip of the iceberg.

Now if you want to see other things that they are selling, make sure you follow Digital Walker on FB, and @digitalwalkerph on Instagram and Twitter. 

Harman International Re-Opens JBL Acoustical Space in SM Megamall

It's impressive to see Harman Kardon-JBL expand really fast in just a few months. We've witnessed to see them open several stores successfully and with the advent of the great new audio, video and portable devices in the market, they make the Filipinos capability to purchase world class brands quite easy with their presence here. Now they've set up shop at the SM Megamall Cyberzone located at the 4th floor. This is JBL Acoustical Space.

They're doing a huge sale on Harman Kardon speakers today, up to 30% off it's original price which is a BIG deal already.

I love these waterproof JBL speakers, really impressed by how they even display it with a working water source inside the store. How's that even possible that it works even when it's totally wet!

They also have a 30% deal on the speakers I mentioned earlier, including the headphones and sorroud sound units too!

There's already a huge line outside even if we're just starting the program. So if you're around SM Megamall today, head over to the 4th floor of the main building, it's at the front corner space of SM Cyberzone so you wouldn't miss it! The sale only lasts today so if I were you, I'd get my shopping money and buy myself a brand new spanking JBL Speaker today! (As gift to self of course!). This establishment is owned and operated by Beyond Innovations, a Harman International partner. 

KUMAGCOW

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Digits Trading Corporation Outs Best Gadgets of 2015

This picture reminds me to ALWAYS have to look good. Having friends who do Fashion blogs takes a little bit of upkeep if you know what I mean. I don't really want to look like a rag when I'm with them and the best part of it is that I know I just need to simply use angles (as you can see by the fat guy on the photo). It doesn't take a genius to know they think about what to wear every day while I just put on whatever I have in the closet and put them on, choose a shoe then go. I don't even take the slightest look in the mirror and just bother what I am doing later on when I sit beside them, I just tell myself they're friends and they'll understand that when it comes to styling I don't have a clue LOL. It just shows that we love each other dearly because we're Team Suspects.

It's also Christmas Season. Just like me, you have to have your gadgets look good too Have you done shopping already? Have you already thought about what to give your man? How about your techy friends? Have you seen your phone lately and told yourself how ugly it is and always thought about getting it a new look? Well don't go anywhere further because the people from Digits Trading just made things easier for you. They've compiled the top selling gadgets and accessories from their stores and what better way to give gifts but to actually know what it is before you go out of your house right? I went with Team Suspects to check it out. It was also their way of thanking the media for helping them all these years. Digits Trading is the company behind super great stores like Beyond The Box, Digital Walker, Digital Hub among others that sell tons of internationally renowned brands which you'll see in a bit. Here they are in no particular order!

Digits Trading Best of 2015 by kumagcow

The Braven Balance Wireless Portable Speakers has rich warm bass. It feels like really good music and sound would come out of it without extras, which I think would be good for purists. It can also last for 18 hours as its got 4000 mAh internal battery so you can also charge your phones on it. The Urban Ears Plattan on the other hand can be worn on the street, by executives, even on your workout gear. I must say, this Swedish brand has impressed me even with their earplugs, the colors they have, and the quality of sound in their products. Sometimes it's even better than the one that comes with your device, they practically do it very well. So does the Coloud Headphones which also is very competitively priced. It's very stylish and won't bore you with just the old black or white palette. They also included on the list the Marshall Portable Speaker, it's quality is unquestionable because they are the authority. It's also available in 2 colors, black and cream. You would be the envy of the town if you have it!

They also have the Jaybird X2 Sport Wireless Bluetooth Headphones. It's got a nice fit, can get up to 8 hours of function. It's also sweat proof, so if you're thinking of giving it to someone who runs then this is the perfect gift. Soundfreaq Speakers on the other hand is designed by real music lovers and it's clean lines, modern look can always fit in your existing home. You can also get this to your small parties and it'll make your event a good one. The Boostcase Gemstone Battery Case on the other hand is good for those who have iPhone 6, iPhone 6S and plus. They've got the case to protect the hardware with the additional juice you have on the powerbank it has by default. I also like that they have the Nude Audio Speakers because I've been using one that's wired and it sounds so amazing. The bluetooth/wireless one is at par with that and they are known to be pretty good manufacturers. They also have the RHA in ear headphones for those who want noise isolation, yes that's possible and they've got it inside their stores. The Nation Union Jump Cables is just an answered prayer for iPhone. Let's admit it, the cables that come with our phones just have a lifespan of a year or so. I take care of it that much that I put stuff around it to shield it from wear and tear, still it gave me problems. This just does the job. The Magic Mount for tablets and phones would be good for those who drive, for those who use Waze or GPS too. To cap it off, they've got the ultimate selfie stick called MOMAX Selfie Hero. It's got about everything you want in a selfie stick, bluetooth connection, it's sturdy and colorful.

When you need to buy things like these, Digits Trading Corporation have Beyond the Box, Digital Walker and Digital Hub to cater to your needs. They're in leading malls and establishments nationwide. My favorite is the Digital Walker store in Eastwood, they also have Recession Coffee there which serves coffee and you just pay for what you feel is right. They've got more things in the coming months so make sure you follow their channels for deals and real thrills!

For more information about their products:

Digits Tradingr

Like them on Facebook


Visit their official website

https://www.facebook.com/digitstrading

The BRAVEN 570 HD Wireless Speaker

Finding the perfect speakers to be in your home or your favorite travel buddy takes a lot of trial and errors. I have found quite a few that would be able to satisfy the audiophile in me but I guess it sometimes fall short on one category, and that's the number of hours that these speakers work. I have bluetooth speakers that work for about an hour, I have one that works around 4-6 hours but I have never even imagined that there would be something like the BRAVEN 570 HD Wireless Speaker. The promise? 10 hours. Is that even possible (I had to ask)? We went and tested this promising product for a few days. 

Just like it's predecessors, this is primarily a Bluetooth speaker. I didn't know until I read the fine print that this is also going to function like a power bank. I think it's also the same reason why it can last a long time, because you can use the device batteries to also charge your cellphones and small gadgets that run on the same specifications. 

Unboxing the BRAVEN 570 HD Wireless Speaker

The black box contains enough cardboard pieces to protect the metal finish of the speaker. It fits the purpose of at least getting the device to you without scratches or dents but with the speaker's build, it'll be pretty hard to do that for real.

The pack also contains two cords. One is the twin 3.5 mm jack, used probably to have another speaker connected to it. The other is for charging the device, from USB to mini jack that you can also use to charge phones with the same port. Since there is a USB port on the BRAVEN 570 HD Wireless Speaker, you can use your own Lightning cable for Apple devices like what I'll be using in this instance.

Braven's Top View

Braven's Back View

Braven's Front View

As for the Braven 570's build, it's really awesome. Now you might think it's weird to have the speakers open in two directions, but if you've got real sound going out of the unit, you don't need the extra bass and go for a louder volume... that's exactly what you'll get from this unit. I tried both music and podcasts so I could differentiate what I'm going to hear in vocals and in different genres of music. If you are looking for deep bass, this wasn't made for that. This BRAVEN 570 HD Wireless Speaker is for REAL non saturated music, no modifications, nothing but the clear music as it should be. Purists who prefer it this way will super like it. As for the loudness, I've reviewed smaller ones before and this packs it like twice of those. After all, this is where that 6 watts of power goes.

Pairing the BRAVEN 570 HD Wireless Speaker was also easy. Just turn on the notch found in the side of the device. You will hear an ascending tone on the speaker itself. Go to your phone and open it's bluetooth capability, it should see the BRAVEN 570 HD Wireless Speaker on the list of devices.

Just go ahead and click on the BRAVEN 570, then wait for it to connect.

There's also a blinking blue light on the device signifying the attempt on pairing. It only lasts a few seconds so make sure you do not miss the exact time pairing with it. This could also be the way to pair with it securely because if it stands around like other devices, other people might connect with it just for fun. That might ruin your listening experience, and it was cool they only do it for a few seconds for discovery alone.

Talking about controls, the ON/OFF switch, the bluetooth pairing button, the mini USB port, the 3.5mm input jack and the +/- Volume controls looked very apt for the unit. On the other side, the USB port (for output), the 3.5mm (also for output so you can connect another speaker), and the charging button if you have a phone attached. 

Using the Bluetooth connection, I was already satisfied with the output of this BRAVEN 570 HD Wireless Speaker and it could still work in my room which was more than 10 feet away from it. I don't have that much interference in my house aside from the router and it all works like it should.

I also used the cable that came with the package to connect my iPhone 5S powered by SMART to play podcasts straight from the internet and it was amazing. I think it even sounded more crisp with the cable, but even so, either way, they all work so good on talk shows, and HD music on Deezer Premium.

The BRAVEN 570 HD Wireless Speaker also has an output 3.5mm port so if you have another BRAVEN 570 HD Wireless Speaker or other brands that have that input, you can daisy chain it for an even louder set. Heck, you can have a party indoors or outdoors with friends and family with just this and your iPhone. I'm sure that will be so good if you want to carry around something, not those huge ones that you have to rent and pay thousands of pesos for when you can get the best in this small device.

The BRAVEN 570 HD Wireless Speaker also can be used as a Speakerphone. If you're in a group and want the whole place to listen in to meetings, parties where you want the ones abroad to join you, this is a great solution. Aside from that, it's got this USB port on it that you can use to charge your cellphones. Since it's got around 10 hours of battery life, lending a few thousand mAh's for your drained phones won't hurt. It can also greatly work in emergencies when you can't find a power source during weather disturbances like this typhoon weekend.

The new BRAVEN 570 HD Wireless Speaker works as it should and has a lot of other things in its sleeve to impress you more. It works as a speakerphone, a power bank and plays real sounding music for hours of fun with your family. It's also available in Digits Trading branches nationwide. All you need to do is go to their stores and test it out. Whatever is your budget, they've got other Braven models you can choose from to fit that. Don't forget to check out their showrooms because they would gladly assist you in choosing the right stuff that would also fit your personality. These are lifestyle products after all. As for me, I am happy with the BRAVEN 570 HD Wireless Speaker. I held a party yesterday at home using this, fits like a glove! If you haven't thought about that perfect Christmas gift yet for your man, this would be highly suggested!

For more information about their stores:

Digits Trading

Like them on Facebook


Visit their official website

http://www.braven.com/