Wednesday, January 11, 2023
Start the year with your device in tip-top shape and experience leading After Sales Services with OPPO Care
This new year, it’s high time to make proper smartphone care a part of your resolutions and new habits to develop. Global smart device brand OPPO is here to provide the best care your OPPO device needs with the help of its OPPO Care Bundle, available in its Service Centers nationwide.
Get hassle-free phone checkups with the one-hour flash fix service
Kickstart the new year right by dropping by an OPPO Service Center and having your smartphone’s overall condition checked. If you’re having any issues with your device, you can avail of OPPO’s one-hour flash fix service. OPPO’s after sales team guarantees to resolve your phone’s issues quickly and even offers face-to-face repair so you can see for yourself how they work on it.
In cases where more time is needed for repairs, worry not because OPPO offers a loan phone service to customers in all OPPO service centers nationwide, so you have a device to use while yours is still being attended to.
You can also get exclusive OPPO freebies like pins, umbrellas, pillows, notebooks, and more each time you visit the service center.
Maximize the free services, upgrades, and more
Treat yourself and your device to the best care that only OPPO provides, because you definitely deserve it. Approach the OPPO after sales team in your nearest service center and avail a free screen protector for any OPPO smartphone,and keep the display clear and protected. Phone check-ups and software upgrades, which are essential and must be done from time to time, are also free in all service centers. Disinfection and labor also come with no added cost, ensuring your smartphone is well-maintained through all your adventures in 2023.
The good thing about these exclusive OPPO Care perks is that they have unlimited redemption. As long as your phone needs it, OPPO is ready to provide the utmost care for your device. Moreover, when you avail of the Send-In Repair Service, OPPO can ship your device back to you for free.
Book your appointments easily via My OPPO App or the OPPO Support page
If you’re busy and always running on a tight schedule, OPPO offers a reservation service using the My OPPO App or the OPPO Support page, wherein you can book a specific time and date in any OPPO service center.
OPPO smartphone users have the My OPPO app pre-installed on their smartphone. Just open the app and tap “Reserve” from the menu. Select the nearest or most convenient OPPO Service Center on the support tab. Click “Start” and it will ask you to set the time and date of the reservation and supply other important information. After confirming all the details, you’re all set, and make sure to be there at the scheduled appointment.
The process on the website is similar. Go to OPPO Reservation service and find your nearest service center available. Once you select the nearest branch, select “Reservation Service” and click the “Start” button. It will ask you to provide information and your preferred time and date.
Score exclusive freebies and discounts every OPPO Service Day
Make your visit to the OPPO Service Centers more rewarding by going every 10th to 12th of the month and enjoying the OPPO Service Day. Aside from the usual freebies you get on normal days, you can also receive free drinks, a 10% discount on LCD, motherboard, and accessories, and an OPPO gift.
Other OPPO Care services you can avail for the care your device deserves
If you are living within NCR, you can experience care right at your doorstep with OPPO’s Door-to-Door Service. This enables a free pickup and return of your phone to and from the service center.
You can reach OPPO Support via OPPO Brand Stores, partner dealers, or OPPO Service Center. You can also email or chat through the OPPO Support page or OPPO Care-PH Facebook page or call a toll-free hotline from Monday to Sunday, from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
To know more about OPPO, visit its official website at https://www.oppo.com/ph/. You can also check OPPO Philippines’ official social media pages on Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok.
Upgrading to a new phone? Perhaps, you're still on the fence about investing your hard-earned money in one that's tailored to your needs. Without further ado, here's my take on the Reno 8Z 5G.
DESIGN
If you're familiar with the portrait master Oppo Reno 7Z 5G, the Oppo Reno 8Z 5G will be nothing new to you with the difference mainly in expanded storage of 256GB compared to the 128GB of the latter. Measuring 159.9 x 73.2 x 7.7 mm and weighing 181 grams, it has a slightly different rear design compared to the OPPO Reno7 Z camera part which is slightly larger and has a glossy finish. The main and macro cameras have two big lenses, resulting in a noticeable camera hump and it is advisable to use the provided jelly case to protect it from scratches.
Quite frankly, it resembles an iPhone based on its flat back and sides. That is not exactly negative but in fact, gives it a premium look and feel. Available in Dawnlight Gold and Starlight Black, the former color is preferable since it creates a shifting rainbow effect on the back of the phone as it is moved from different angles. Despite being somewhat sparkly on the back, the finish is matte.
The volume buttons and SIM tray are on the left side of the OPPO Reno8 Z 5G, while the power button is on the right. A 3.5mm audio jack, a USB-C port, and a speaker are located at the bottom of the device.
FEATURES
The Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 chipset is combined with 8GB of LPDDR4x RAM to power the smartphone. On the other hand, it features a 6.43-inch AMOLED display with a refresh rate of 60Hz and FHD+ resolution, as well as a 4500mAh battery with SUPERVOOC 33W rapid charging capabilities. Having colors that are on the balanced side allowed us to utilize it for a long time.
Furthermore, the display includes a snappy optical fingerprint scanner. The screen can reach up to a maximum of 600 nits brightness which should be enough to use in bright rooms and sunny outdoors but upon testing, I experienced a little difficulty viewing the display clearly.
On the rear of the OPPO Reno8 Z 5G are three cameras with LED flash namely a 64MP f/1.7 for the main shooter, a 2MP f/2.4 macro camera, and a 2MP f/2.4 depth helper. The usual features from the app can be expected like night mode, slow-mo, time-lapse, panorama, and macro. Pro mode allows you to fine-tune the settings to get the best out of your photos. Upfront is the selfie camera which also has portrait mode. Options for video are 720p or 1080p resolution.
To control the dual orbit lights tucked subtly beneath the camera modules, the Breathing light feature can be set to Always on while charging, Quickly blink for incoming calls, and Slowly blink for notifications.
Bloatware comes standard but most of them can be removed translating to more available memory.
PERFORMANCE
The performance of the phone is great, with hardly no latency when it comes to games. Call of Duty mobile had no lag or frame drops and the screen is responsive for classic and battle royale mode. For Mobile Legends, it worked well with ultra graphics and a high refresh rate. Detailed, bright, and great resolution were evident. Lastly, Genshin impact can only run smoothly if the graphics are set to low or medium preset at 45-50fps. The phone gets hot and lags a little when used for a long time.
With casual use like Web surfing, social media posting, and YouTube video viewing over WiFi, the phone can last all day with the provided 4500mah battery and 8-9 hours for games.
In terms of volume, it is sufficient to be heard in a modest space, including the living room.
CAMERA
The OPPO Reno8 Z 5G main cam can produce images with a nice balance of colors and tones while being consistently sharp, and its indoor photos were good. HDR mode can either be set to manual or automatic and turning it off will make photos look more natural. The 16MP front camera produced accurate colors and clear images even at night thanks to selfie HDR. The portrait mode, which is the star of the show delivers smoothly blurred backgrounds and creamy bokeh photos that appear to come out straight from a DSLR.
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Night
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| Food |
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| Cat |
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| Iron man |
Due to the lack of optical zoom, using 2x zoom is advisable for acceptable image quality. On a side note, to remedy the grainy low-light shots, using the night mode is a great help to provide more detailed and lively colors.
PROS AND CONS
On the good side, I'll start with the ultra-slim retro design and a tasty-looking rear in Dawnlight Gold featuring a seamless gradient coating of different tones of yellow, cyan, purple, and gold. Next, the AMOLED display delivers punchy visuals and rich colors. Another one is the presence of a jack for the headset which is a feature audiophiles are looking for. The 33W SUPERVOOC flash-charging feature only takes an hour to fully power the phone which is opposite to how very slowly the battery drains. It takes out the hassle of daily charging the phone for people on the go. Memory-wise, 128GB is sufficient and it can still be expanded to 1TB which for most cases is more than enough. The onboard RAM makes transitions smooth from one app to another and we can't notice any lag at all. The phone was simply designed to deliver where it counts.
On the downside, the lack of an ultrawide lens can discourage photo enthusiasts. Capturing group photos and sceneries is essential for the average person. The refresh rate is only 60 Hz which is standard for games, but with a higher number, the smoother the screen will appear to the human eye. The phone is equipped with a 64MP primary camera but lacks OIS and instead relies on EIS. The lack of it results in lower performance in low light. EIS actually does a better job with moving pictures in sequence. Finally, it has been a while but an increase in screen size will be ideal for a better viewing and gaming experience.
VERDICT
With the SRP of P19,999 and if you're on the lookout for a mid-range phone that can handle most modern games without lag, excellent-performing rear and front cameras in good light conditions, a capable multitasker, and has fast charging capability under its sleeve, then this one's a solid choice. The deal breaker for some is the 60Hz refresh rate but to an Oppo fan, the brand name speaks for itself. Based on the datasheet, an upgrade from 7Z 5G is not the best move but in the grand scheme of things, what matters most is your budget and most of all, your opinion.
If you're looking for unique and meaningful gifts or 'pasalubong' for your loved ones this holiday season, Kultura at SM is the perfect place to shop. From handmade souvenirs, eco-friendly barong and fashionable Filipiniana to artisanal chocolates and local coffee, Kultura is definitely your one-stop shop for all kinds of Filipino goodies.
In this season of giving, aside from supporting local artistry and promoting Filipino heritage and talent, you can also help the hungry with every purchase at Kultura using your SMAC (SM Advantage Card).
Leading digital solutions platform Globe and SMAC, the loyalty card of retail giant SM, are pleased to announce that they have come together to help put meals on the table of those in need through the Hapag Movement, Globe’s technology-driven program against involuntary hunger.
Through the partnership, P50.00 will be donated to the Hapag Movement and other SM Foundation programs for every purchase of a new SMAC card.
On top of this, from December 15, 2022 to January 15, 2023, SMAC members who shop for select items at Kultura can earn up to 1,000 extra SMAC Points. Half of the extra points they earn will then be donated to Globe’s Hapag Movement.
“Now is the best time to discover local artistry, so get your shopping list ready and head to Kultura! Not only will you find unique and meaningful ‘pasalubongs’ for your loved ones, but a portion of your points will also be donated to the Hapag Movement and other SM Foundation programs - a perfect way to spread some holiday cheer and give back to those in need,” said Jay Beltran, SMAC SAVP Head of Sales and Marketing.
“Whether you’re a balikbayan who wants to bring Filipino goodies overseas or a fan of local products, Kultura is the best place to get your post-Christmas shopping going. And through our partnership with SMAC, not only will you satisfy your shopping needs but also help the hungry, “ said Yoly Crisanto, Globe Group Chief Sustainability and Corporate Communications Officer.
Globe’s Hapag Movement leverages on technology and collaboration to help 100,000 families experiencing involuntary hunger through supplemental feeding and livelihood support.
Globe initiated the program to help Filipinos severely affected by the pandemic, with its effects still felt until today. An estimated 15 million Filipinos suffer from involuntary hunger, according to the Social Weather Stations.
More information about the Hapag Movement can be found on its official page, while shoppers may also visit smac.ph or download the SMAC app to learn more.
As the new year brings in refreshed goals and new adventures, OPPO helps you start anew with its latest addition to the OPPO Reno8 5G series, the OPPO Reno8 5G 12+256GB in a dazzling new color–Sunkissed Beige. The latest Portrait Expert comes in a stylish, premium colorway, with upgraded storage, and smoother performance. The latest OPPO Reno8 5G variant can be yours for Php 29,999, allowing you to bring ultra clear portraits to life this 2023.
The new OPPO Reno8 5G 12+256GB comes in a fresh coat of color in Sunkissed Beige with a beautiful glossy finish that remains resistant to fingerprints and dust. With an updated look, the ultra slim smartphone now also comes with an upgraded 12GB RAM and 256GB ROM - a significant increase from the OPPO Reno8 5G Series’ first release in September 2022, which offers 8GB RAM and 256GB ROM. Now, you can also enjoy capturing ultra clear portraits and
keeping more memories throughout the year without having to worry about a “full storage” notification popping up. This larger RAM and ROM enhances and smoothens the overall performance of the new smartphone, lessening lags and increasing its fluency to boost productivity and entertainment.
Rounding up the new features that make the new OPPO Reno8 5G 12+256GB a worthy investment, is the ColorOS13 based on Android 13. This updated operating system provides a more seamless smartphone experience, with improved multi-device connectivity features like Multi-Screen Connect and Nearby Share, as well as heightened data privacy and protection features like Auto Pixelate and Private Safe.
Living up to its name as The Portrait Expert, the OPPO Reno8 5G 12+256GB still carries the same powerful Dual Sony Flagship Sensors that made the OPPO Reno8 5G series a reliable partner in capturing ultra clear portraits in any light. This latest model delivers a 50MP main camera and 32MP front camera that level up your visuals with more color, contrast, and details captured in every shot from Ultra Night Video, Ultra HDR Video, Hyperlapse, and even AI Slow Motion.
Apart from its high-powered camera, the new OPPO Reno8 5G 12+256GB still packs 80W SUPERVOOC fast charging capabilities, similar to the rest of the OPPO Reno8 5G Series, which allows you to get 50% battery with just 11 minutes of charging. The new variant is also powered by the same Mediatek Dimensity 1300 chip that enables all games, apps, and streaming services to run smoothly all day long boosted with 5G speed.
For Php 29,999, you can start your year right with the new OPPO Reno8 5G 12+256GB in a new stunning Sunkissed Beige color and now with larger storage. Grab yours now via all OPPO Brand Stores, partner dealers, and OPPO Official Stores on Shopee and Lazada.
Monday, January 9, 2023
Ahead of the Jan. 8 theatrical release of TriStar Pictures’ Whitney Houston biopic, Whitney Houston: I Wanna Dance with Somebody, RCA Records and Sony Music Entertainment has dropped the official 35-song soundtrack, serving as a musical memoir of the cinematic voyage. Listen here.
“This totally unique soundtrack album brings many of Whitney’s classics into 2023 and beyond. Contemporary, current and often scorching, if you love Whitney’s music, you must own this album,” says Clive Davis.
Featuring music spanning two decades of Houston’s legendary career, I Wanna Dance With Somebody (The Movie: Whitney New, Classic and Reimagined) includes nearly two hours of remixed and original versions of Whitney Houston songs, with special guest features by BeBe Winans, Clean Bandit, Kygo, Lucky Daye, SG Lewis, Samaria, Jax Jones, Leikeli47, P2J, Oxlade, Pheelz, and more.
“We are thrilled to be releasing the amazing 35-song soundtrack to the Whitney Houston: I Wanna Dance With Somebody film with RCA Records,” says Pat Houston, President of The Estate of Whitney E. Houston. “We think the fans will be excited to hear some incredible music they know and love, as well as some new never-before-released tracks, including ‘Far Enough’ and the incredible ‘Don’t Cry For Me,’ which ends the film.”
Just recently, RCA announced the original soundtrack would include three rare versions of “Don’t Cry For Me” – a never-before-released a cappella, a full-length film version by Rodney “Darkchild” Jerkins, and a reimagined recording by record producer Sam Feldt. Houston’s iconic performance of the song was made famous after a striking rendition at the 1994 Aids Project Los Angeles (APLA) benefit concert – a moment that would stun the audience and go down in history as one of the most memorable performances of Whitney Houston’s illustrious career.
“I am extremely honored and proud to have been asked to reimagine a track made by all-time legend Whitney Houston,” says Sam Feldt. “Being a key part of this unique movie’s soundtrack by turning this classic into a 2023 ready dance-pop banger is an absolute pleasure, and I can’t wait for the fans to hear it.”
“I’m beyond excited for the fans and the next generation of fans to experience the greatness of Whitney and what her voice meant and still means to all of us,” says Rodney Jerkins.
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One of the most iconic and influential singers in music history, Houston sold over 200 million albums throughout her legendary career, to become one of the best-selling artists of the 20th century. Her self-titled debut album, Whitney Houston was one of the most acclaimed albums in modern recording history, spending 14 weeks at #1 on Billboard Top 200 and selling more than 25 million copies worldwide. The streak continued when Houston became the first female artist to debut at #1 on the Billboard 200 with her sophomore album, Whitney.
Together, the two albums spurred seven #1 singles with a catalog of hits that include, “Saving All My Love for You,” “How Will I Know,” “Greatest Love of All,” “I Wanna Dance With Somebody (Who Loves Me),” “Didn’t We Almost Have It All,” “So Emotional,” and “Where Do Broken Hearts Go.” A run that would lead Houston to become the only Black artist to earn three RIAA Diamond-certified albums.
I Wanna Dance With Somebody Soundtrack Tracklisting:
1. I Wanna Dance With Somebody (Whitney Houston & P2J)
2. Don’t Cry For Me (Whitney Houston & Sam Feldt)
3. Higher Love (Whitney Houston & Kygo)
4. The Greatest Love Of All (Whitney Houston & Jax Jones)
5. I’m Every Woman (Whitney Houston & SG Lewis)
6. How Will I Know (Whitney Houston & Clean Bandit)
7. I Love The Lord (Whitney Houston, BeBe Winans, Great John)
8. Don’t Cry For Me (Darkchild Film Version)
9. Honest (Heartbreak Hotel) [Whitney Houston & Lucky Daye]
10. Okay (Whitney Houston, Oxlade, Pheelz)
11. You’ll Never Stand Alone (Moto Blanco Remix)
12. Love Will Save The Day (MATVEI Remix)
13. Tomorrow (Whitney Houston & Samaria)
14. Home (Live from The Merv Griffin Show)
15. You Give Good Love
16. Saving All My Love for You
17. If You Say My Eyes Are Beautiful (Whitney Houston & Jermaine Jackson)
18. Far Enough
19. I Wanna Dance with Somebody (Who Loves Me)
20. So Emotional
21. Where Do Broken Hearts Go
22. Moment Of Truth
23. I’m Your Baby Tonight
24. The Star-Spangled Banner (Live from Super Bowl XXV)
25. One Moment In Time
26. I Will Always Love You (Live from The Concert for a New South Africa)
27. Medley: I Loves You, Porgy / And I Am Telling You I’m Not Going / I Have Nothing (Live
from The 21st Annual American Music Awards)
28. Run To You
29. Impossible Things (Whitney Houston & Leikeli47)
30. Why Does It Hurt So Bad (from the “Waiting to Exhale” – Original Soundtrack)
31. It’s Not Right, But It’s Okay
32. My Love Is Your Love
33. I Didn’t Know My Own Strength (Live from The Oprah Winfrey Show)
34. Clive’s Message
35. Don’t Cry For Me (A Cappella)
Committed to bringing bigger brands and bigger experiences, SM City Marilao recently welcomed three international brands to serve its expanding consumer class in the province. New stores such as Tim Hortons, G&G Taiwan Famous Chicken, and Momo Korean Eggdrop are the first concept stores in Bulacan that brings authentic fare from North America to East Asia.
Starting the year right, SM City Marilao introduces a new brew to try this season with the iconic Canadian café and bakeshop. Tim Hortons has been providing Canadians with delicious coffee drinks since 1964, and now that their brand has expanded in the province, Bulakenyos can now enjoy the same high-quality coffee and warm friendly service. An ideal place to go for a quick coffee on the go or to enjoy a coffee with friends, Tim Hortons’s coffee is rich and flavorful. It offers a variety of blends to suit every taste.n Fashion,
Apart from coffee, Tim Hortons also offers delicious food items, including breakfast sandwiches, doughnuts and many more. If you’re looking for a caffeine fix, visit Tim Hortons near SM City Marilao Foodcourt.
From Canada to East Asia, Taiwan’s irresistible crunchy chicken munchies are now available in G&G Taiwan Famous Fried Chicken at the second floor of the mall. G&G Taiwan Famous Chicken offers a delicious lineup of piping hot chicken, fries, and many more.
Munch down on G&G’s bestsellers, Taiwan Chicken Chops, and Taiwan Chicken Pops, for that tender, savory meat underneath a mouthwatering coat that gives you a delightful crunch with every bite.
Joining the bandwagon, SM City Marilao hopped on the Korean Wave as it introduces the K-style snacks or the famous Egg Drop Sandwiches. The scrumptious and filling snack made fluffy scrambled eggs topped with cheese, mayonnaise, bacon, and spam and all the good things you want in a snack is now up for grabs at Momo Korean Eggdrop located on the 2nd floor of the mall. Satisfy your Korean taste craving with Momo’s Eggdrop sandwich and get that premium taste of soft buttery bread filled with sweet, savory, and sometimes spicy flavors in one bite.
Momo has also taken the K-style snack to the next level as it offers various toppings like tuna, corned beef, and even ribeye steak. Shoppers may also have fun taking photos in their very instagrammable store.
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| HONOR Philippines has officially revealed the launch of HONOR X9a 5G, its first phone in 2023 that will change the concept of premium. Sporting a premium curved OLED screen, the HONOR X9a 5G will be the first in its price point. |
MANILA, Philippines - January 9, 2023 – Leading global smart devices provider, HONOR, dropped the official teaser of its first launch of the year. HONOR X9a 5G is the latest addition to the HONOR X Series delivering best-in-class visuals and performance with a Premium OLED Curved Screen, high-capacity durable battery, and the Qualcomm® Snapdragon® 695 5G Mobile Platform, all engineered to fit in a pocket-sized body.
“We are very excited to introduce HONOR X9a 5G in the market. It’s something that HONOR fans should definitely look forward to as it will really change the definition of premium,” said HONOR Philippines Vice President for Marketing, Stephen Cheng. “HONOR is very confident to bring you a highly durable phone with an OLED curved screen and long-lasting battery life without breaking the bank.”
Packing a long-lasting battery into a compact body, the HONOR X9a 5G is the thinnest and lightest smartphone to allow up to 2-day use for a truly uninterrupted user experience, and with just 30 minutes of charging, the HONOR X9a 5G can deliver up to 12.5 hours of video streaming, sparing users from having to worry about their battery.
HONOR X9a 5G will sport a 64MP Super Triple Camera, inheriting the same iconic circular camera layout as HONOR’s flagship Magic Series line-up that features a symmetrical Matrix Star Ring camera design at the back, making premium smartphone design more accessible.
Supporting its sleek curved design, HONOR X9a 5G is capable of displaying more colors with 10-bit or 1.07 billion colors achieving realistic photos and videos, and compared to other smartphones in the same price range.
HONOR X9a 5G will be officially launched on January 19, 2023 and will come in stunning Emerald Green and Titanium Silver colors. Catch our launch live on HONOR Philippines’ Facebook Page (https://bit.ly/HONORX9a5GLaunchEvent) at 7PM and get a chance to win your very own HONOR X9a 5G!
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