2011 v11n10 - DEALS ISSUE

editor’snote

June2011

a few words from our editor

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February2011

editorsnote

editor’snote

a few words from our editor

A

s school season returns, everybody seems on the lookout for the best possible deals in town. It used to be perpetuated by word of mouth or the traditional TV, radio and print media. Some even ask you to clip coupons or tally up points before you can benefit from the price cuts.

But technology has, once again, changed all these. Now you can surf the ‘Net for auction sites such as eBay or a virtual classified ad listing like Craigslist. Just recently, we have observed the growth of group buying sites. Previously an unknown concept until a year ago, group buying sites offer products and services at such significant discount so long as the deal has a minimum number of buyers, has seen a virtual explosion of portals over the past few months. People are notified of upcoming deals by signing up for daily emails or through social networks like Twitter and Facebook. They can then purchase such deals by logging onto the group-buying site and printing vouchers from the site. There are a few I know who have grown addicted to sites like these.

For this month’s issue, we’re giving you the rundown on deals like these; even went as far as revisiting Greenhills and Hidalgo for the best bargains for gadgeteers. The cover story even provides tips for making those online transactions. We know credit card requirements can be a hassle for some so the next best thing to get your hands on the “internet bargains” is PayPal. Our cover personalities actress Lauren Young and UAAP FEU player Jens Knuttel showed off some of the latest and hottest gadgets to keep the gray and the gloom at bay.

So sit back and relax and prepare for a bit of high-tech bargain hunting.

Armin A. Amio EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Photographed by Paul Ticzon Makeup & Hair by Mica Ramos, CAS-Makati Art Direction by Michelle Callanta-Toledo & Benjamin Arnold Styling by Chad Villarmino & M.R. Gavin Clothes by PUMA, Jellybean, and Folded & Hung Shoes by Soule Phenomenon Accessories by Gold Dot, Folded & Hung, Jellybean, and OS Special Thanks to Coach Bert Flores of FEU

June2011

GADGETS Magazine is published monthly by Great Minds Media Incorporated. Address all correspondence to 9-B Evening News Street, West Triangle, Quezon City.

Our telephone numbers are 332-4004, 376-7356 and 514-8321.

Our website is: www.gadgetsmagazine.com.ph Our email addresses are: editors@gadgetsmagazine.com.ph gadgetsmagazine@gmail.com

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All unsolicited manuscripts, illustrations and photos submitted must be accompanied by a stamped self-addressed envelope if they are to be returned. All rights reserved.

Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher is prohibited. Every care is taken to ensure that the content of Gadgets is fully accurate; however, the publisher and printer assume no responsibility for the effects arising therefrom. Gadgets Magazine is a registered trademark of Great Minds Media Incorporated.

www.gadgetsmagazine.com.ph

PUBLISHER Maribelle Alba

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Armin Amio

ASSOCIATE EDITOR Michelle Callanta-Toledo

EDITOR-AT-LARGE Presy Alba

WRITERS M.R. Gavin

Steven Vea

Benjamin Arnold

JC Ansis

Paolo Toledo

SENIOR ART DIRECTORS Benjamin Arnold

Chad Villarmino

CHIEF EXECUTIVE

OFFICER Maribelle Alba

SALES & ADVERTISING

MANAGER

SENIOR ACCOUNTS EXECUTIVE

ACCOUNTS EXECUTIVE

DIGITAL ONLINE EDITOR

ADVERTISING AGENTS

CIRCULATION OFFICER

CIRCULATION ASSISTANT

ACCOUNTING MANAGER HR OFFICER/EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT

Marisa Consuelo MJ Gonzales-Esteban Carol Agabin John Nieves Bess Zamora Val Villamar Lorie Bernardo Salvador Da, Jr. Tess Pascua Amy Christine Giray

LEGAL COUNSEL Alba Law Office

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February2011

editorsnote

contents

Volume 11 Number 10 • June 2011

62 photofeature

A BEAUTIFUL DAY IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD Upcoming stars Lauren Young and Jens Knuttel showcase style with their favorite gadgets.

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photofeature

COSPLAY GODDESS: Alodia Gosiengfiao cosplays into our hearts

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June2011

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Coupon deals Not familiar with collective buying or groupons? We break it down and provide you the best websites to visit so you can start saving your cash.

PayPal: the (online) collector’s best friend Find out how easy it is to make an account so you can shop online.

The Real Gadget Deals These two places are havens for any bargain hunter, but sometimes it gets overwhelming. Fortunately, we break it all down for you so you can focus on getting the best deal.

AOC takes on LCD market Find out what AOC’s plans are for the future as detailed in their Xianmen presscon.

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coverstory

E-RETAIL THERAPY: THE BASICS OF ONLINE SHOPPING Useful tips on how to shop online safely

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February2011

contents

content Volume 11 Number 10 • June 2011

Tech

08 techparade

From Fujitsu Lifebooks to LG smartphones, discover the latest devices to hit the market.

Mobility 42 44

27 gadgetslab

Thinking of buying a new gadget?

Find out first how they fared in our testing lab.

40 tablets

44

The 2011 Accord takes center stage.

45

We can all take steps to promote safer roads in our country. See how you can avoid unnecessary mishaps and unfortunate accidents.

46

Looking for a vehicle with plenty of room inside? See what the Suzuki APV has to offer.

48

Rediscover the “Next Best Thing” in Chery Motors relaunching campaign.

The longest running car-show in the country celebrates 20 years with an epic event full of loyal patrons and fellow enthusiasts alike.

The attack of the trucks! Learn what happened at Isuzu’s last truck show.

Half the fun in owning a tablet is finding awesome apps. Get the lowdown on the best iPad apps you can get!

49 apps

We’ve found some great apps that are the perfect shopping companions.

50 gaming

Discover the joy in commanding a fleet of armored behemoths in World of Tanks, the truest free-to-play multiplayer tank game.

52 websites

Everybody loves bargain hunting, especially when you can find exactly what you want online before you charge headlong into the crowd.

Check out these deals that we’ve found around the web!

Lifestyle

69 lifestyleparade

Keep it chic and cool. See how you can further add style to your life.

74 Lifestylefeature

Judges from America’s Next Top Model talk about their books and share their concept of beauty.

June2011

76 beautylab

Join Ben and Michelle as they enjoy a refreshing Diamond Peel courtesy of VMV Hypoallergenics.

81 yin&yang

What is feng shui? Read on how you can use this ancient technique to improve your life.

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Music 78 listen

Meet GarageBand, the iPad app that can turn anyone into a musician.

79 featuredartist

Kris Aquino’s latest album chronicles the full and rich life that she’s been blessed with, full of both love and loss. Discover the impressive array of artists she’s collaborated with in her latest album, entitled My Heart’s Journey.

80 cdreview

Gail Blanco embarks on the lighter side of emotions in Sweet Love; Kris Aquino’s My Heart’s Journey is a personal musical autobiography; Jessie J’s cornucopia of musical styles surfaces in Who You Are; Tricky revisits his trip-hop roots with his latest release, Mixed Race.

Bits&Bytes 82 events

Find out how Energie Footwear will captivate the urban landscape.

83 84 85

Read on to learn what design experts think of the new Samsung series 9.

Test your endurance through the “Pacific Rim of Fire.”

The Epson team takes media partners on an excursion to showcase its DURABrite pigment technology.

86 newsbits&bytes

Check out what’s hot off the tech presses.

92 buyersguide

It’s not easy looking for a new gadget. Luckily, we’re here to help you out.

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February2011

contents

techparade

be up-to-date on the freshest gadgets to hit the market

Aspire One Happy NETBOOKS

Be merry and happy with the next-gen Aspire One Happy netbook. Be amazed at its processing speed, thanks to the Intel Atom N570 dual-core (1MB L2 cache, 1.66 GHz, DDR3 667 MHz, 8.5) processor, part of the newgeneration low-power consumption processors from Intel. Together with the Mobile Intel NM10 Express Chipset and 2GB DDR3 memory, expect no-nonsense computing performance from this diminutive dynamo. The integrated Graphics Media Accelerator 3150 is also one reason why the Aspire One Happy is a big favorite, and the 500GB hard drive allows for more storage space for your important files despite its small form factor.

GE DV1

PORTABLE CAMCORDER Don’t look now but General Electric has entered the realm of videocameras with the introduction of the DV1. It’s small, shaped much like a mobile phone, and built to shoot and upload video quickly and easily.

It shoots in 1080p high definition, has a 2.5-inch LCD display, SD card slot, Lithium-ion battery and HDMI-out. The ease of upload is down to the provision of a pop-out USB, allowing you to connect it to a computer and upload to YouTube et al, or edit to make a short film, add effects, graphics, etc. Plus it’s waterproof, shockproof and crisis-proof. You’d definitely flip over its price.

Php 3,000

Aspire One D257

June2011

NETBOOKS

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The Aspire One D257 brings you unmatched performance in its class, fashionable style and convenient connectivity wherever you go. Inside this netbook is the Intel Atom N570 (1MB L2 cache, 1.66 GHz, DDR3 667 MHz, 8.5W) processor that outperforms other processors in its class and at a lower voltage consumption for true energy efficiency. Coupled with the Mobile Intel NM10 Express Chipset and a 2GB DDR3 memory, worry not about its performance when it comes to multitasking work, while the Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 3150 with 64 MB of dedicated system memory provides true graphics intensity. Throw in the 500GB hard drive and you’re all set to conquer. www.gadgetsmagazine.com.ph

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June2011

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techparade

techparad

Altec Lansing Orbit USB Lite (IML227) COMPUTER SPEAKERS

A beautifully simple USB-powered speaker that’s ultraportable for laptops and netbooks. This tough little speaker can travel the distance in a tight package that’s built to survive. Its 360° sound field pushes astonishing sound in all directions while a retractable stand lets you aim the sound in any path.

From the source to the speaker, sound stays digitally wired through the USB connection. No fuzz, no muffle, just quality audio

Altec Lansing Expressionist Ultra (MX6021) COMPUTER SPEAKERS

Live your games with Altec Lansing’s Expressionist Ultra speaker system.

This uniquely designed 3-speaker, 200-watt monster takes your gaming to the next level. Get volume, crystal clarity and heavy bass with whatever you plug in—computer, TV, MP3 player, game console or DVD player. It has 200 watts of power with separate bass, midrange and treble amplifiers that turn out phenomenally clean power at any volume. An audio alignment feature delivers balanced, optimum sound while a 6 ½-inch front-firing, long-throw woofer delivers low-frequency bass. Each speaker delivers clear, full-spectrum sound.

Altec Lansing Muzx Core (MZX206)

June2011

HEADPHONES

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These noise-isolating earphones can fit every style. The SnugFit design (six-piece fit kit with silicone tips for small, medium or large ears) allows extreme comfort and superior passive-noise isolation. Its well-balanced sound signature ensures crystal-clear audio reproduction across a wide range of genres, whatever you want to listen to. Plus with the built-in mic and call button, you can take a call and go right back to your music.

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June2011

AD

techparade

techparad

Asus WAVI

HDMI STREAMING KIT Taiwanese powerhouse Asus offers the WAVI, the world’s first wireless HDMI kit to feature innovative two-way wireless USB control designed to stream PC content to the big screen TV. WAVI, short for Wireless Audio Video Interaction, is offered as a pair of devices that bridges the gap between the home office and living room. Watch movies, play the latest PC games, enjoy social networking or even do online shopping, all on the big screen TV from the comfort of a couch. The WAVI HDMI streaming kit consists of a transmitter and receiver for two-way input and streaming.

Carrier Designer Series ROOM AIR-CONDITIONERS

With its stylish front panel, matched by chrome-plated trims and a sleek remote door panel, the Carrier Designer Series is a real looker indeed.

Its impressive exterior design and elegant color options—Twilight Silver, Midnight Black and Winter White—allows it to fit seamlessly into any type of interior, from luxurious condos to cozy living rooms and pristine kitchens.

The Designer Series’ energy-management features can do wonders in reining in expenses. A cycle timer that lets you program your unit to turn On and Off at 30 minute intervals; and an Econo feature that turns your electric fan on and your air-con off when the desired temperature is reached. It also comes equipped with a unique 8-in-1 Filter System, which allows it to trap harmful fungi and dust particles, filter out smoke and odors, kill viruses, and neutralize free radicals that can harm the skin.

Transcend StoreJet 25H3P & 25H2P

HIGH-CAPACITY PORTABLE HARD DRIVES

June2011

Transcend’s USB 3.0-powered StoreJet 25H3P and the standard USB 2.0-powered StoreJet 25H2P both boast 1TB of storage capacity and come bundled with the advanced new Transcend Elite data management software, which allows modern users to keep their rich digital content organized, protected and up-to-date. Housed in a robust shockproof case, the drives offer extra capacity for more downloads and files and provide the highest level of protection against accidental drops. Besides incorporating a brilliant purple anti-slip rubber enclosure, the new models include a reinforced hard casing that evenly distributes the force of an impact, and an internal hard drive suspension damper as a last line of defense. Both two drives have passed the rigorous US military drop-test tests, making them one of the most robust portable hard drives in the market today.

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June2011

AD

techparade

techparad

AOC Razor e943Fw LED MONITOR

Want something sleek, chic, slim and isn’t greedy on desk space or your budget?

AOC may have exactly what you need to keep your desktop looking “sharp” and spiffy. The AOC Razor e943Fw comes in a glossy all-white scheme and features an ultra-slim cabinet measuring just 12.9mm. The sharp 18.5-inch LED panel has an Ultra High Dynamic Contrast Ration (DCR) of 50,000,000:1 with a maximum resolution of 1366 x 768, revealing darker image areas in greater depth than ever before. The mercury -free LED backlight saves up to 50% of the energy compared with a traditional 4 CCFL screen. This HD-ready monitor is perfect for both work and multimedia enjoyment.

June2011

Php 5,490

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June2011

AD

techparade

techparad

HTC Desire-S SMARTPHONE

Stemming from the undisputed success of its predecessor, the HTC Desire-S sports a streamlined unibody design, which was forged from a single block of aluminum. New features include dual front and rear cameras (5mp and 1.3mp respectively) capable of recording high-definition video at 720p.

Building on its reputation as the first manufacturer to release a phone that could run multiple Android applications concurrently, the HTC Desire-S is even better, now equipped with Qualcomm’s 1GHz Snapdragon MSM8255 processor. Users will be amazed by this smartphone’s excellent performance as well as the quality of the multimedia experience on its 3.7-inch display. In short, owning this phone simply makes sense.

June2011

Php 27,000

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June2011

Lenovo ThinkPad T420

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LAPTOP

Ideal for today’s mobile business professionals, the Lenovo ThinkPad T420 balances power and performance to provide the highest level of mobility and productivity.

With its standard 9-cell battery, the ThinkPad T420 delivers up to 15 hours of battery life. For extreme battery life needs, the ThinkPad T420 with its standard 9-cell battery and optional 9-cell slice battery provides up to 30 hours of computing power. As one of the first business class laptops to feature Nvidia Optimus automatic graphic switching technology, the ThinkPad T420 provides 33-percent better battery performance over previous discrete graphics models.

Php 74,990

Lenovo ThinkPad X220 LAPTOP

Php 67,990

techparade

With a powerful computing experience with the secondgeneration Intel Core i7 processors, the Lenovo ThinkPad X220 meets military specifications, for endurance coupled with mobility and reliability under harsh conditions.The ThinkPad X220 can deliver up to 23 hours of battery life with the slim external battery pack for an all-day-long notebook. It also boasts outstanding usability with a new button-less touchpad which offers a larger surface area.

techparad

TDK WR700 HEADPHONES

The WR700 wireless headphones provide an authentic, immersive listening experience. This headphones allow users to move without the limitations of a cord and still get the high-fidelity stereo sound one expects. The WR700 is perfect for in-home use with stereo systems as well as mobile devices; simply plug the transmitter into the audio device and sync it with the headphones. Built using Kleer’s proprietary lossless, wireless audio technology, the headphones deliver major improvements in sound clarity over other wireless technologies. The original signal, CD-quality 16-bit 44KHz-digital audio, is preserved during transmission, resulting in uncompromised stereo sound.

Php 6,500

TDK IE 500

IN-EAR HEADPHONES The IE 500 In-ear headphones feature high-performance neodymium speaker plus the ceramic housing provides full, rich sound that any discerning listener will appreciate. Braided cable stays tangle free while listening. The IE 500 is ideal for listeners who expect more from their music experience.

Php 830

TDK ST800 HEADPHONES

June2011

For the professional and the aficionado, the ST800 headphones prioritize function, comfort and craftsmanship alongside technical superiority, high fidelity and sonic range. With metallic detailing and genuine leather accents, they are visually stunning, exuding a sense of casual luxury while the multidirectional cup design delivers optimal fit and comfort. Sonically tuned by the TDK Life on Record Audio Research Lab, the ST800 headphones deliver authentic sound, optimized for any genre, at any volume. High-performance 50mm drivers deliver amazing clarity and range. On-ear volume and mute controls are always within reach, and an in-line equalizer with visible display lets users adjust bass and treble levels separately.

Php 5,000 18

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Fujitsu Lifebook Series June2011

Fujitsu’s Lifebook series of laptops showcase a varied array of features to cater towards people’s diverse and constantly evolving lifestyles. Showcasing the 2nd Generation Intel Core processors and equipped with your choice of Windows 7, these new products are set to create a new standard in performance, speed, security and computing capability.

Lifebook AH531 LAPTOP

The AH531 is your everyday computing companion, boasting a 15.6-inch 16:9 HD back-light LED display, while remaining superiorly lightweight at 2.5kg. The ergonomic full-sized and spill-resistant keyboard also includes a 10-key numberpad to maximize efficiency. The AH531 is available with your choice of processing power, ranging from the Intel HM65 all the way up to Intel Core i7, coupled with 2GB of RAM that is expandable up to 8GB. If premium entertainment or gaming is what you’re looking for, the AH531 is equipped with an IntelHD Graphics 3000 and an NVIDIA GeForce GT525M GPU with Optimus technology and 1GB of dedicated video memory. Available in Urban White/Black, the Lifebook AH531 is essential for those looking for a lightweight all-around multimedia laptop.

Lifebook BH531 LAPTOP

If you’re looking for stability in life, look no further, for the Lifebook BH 531 successfully balances its stellar features with its affordable price. Armed with NVIDIA GeForce 410M GPU with Optimus technology and 1GB of VRAM, expect dazzling graphics to emanate from this laptop’s 13.3-inch SuperFine HD display. Despite only weighing a little less than 2kg, the BH351 packs a lot under its hood, featuring Intel Core i3 or i5 processors, 2GB of RAM (8GB max), and up to 500GB of storage. With this laptop, your battery woes are over as well because the BH531 is equipped with a Power ECO button that could save precious power when you need it the most. This Lifebook is available in your choice of Shiny Black or Garnet Red.

LAPTOP

Fortified by a black anodized aluminum body with a 14” anti-glare HD LCD, this laptop remains surprisingly light at only 1.9kg while still retaining a streamlined design with Zen inspired curves. Dubbed the “Professional Mobility Companion”, the LH701 is a perfect match for small and medium Businesses looking for a desktop alternative. This laptop will make presentations look impressive with its Nvidia GeForce GT 520M graphics card, and precious documents will remain secure with its Radio Frequency (RF) Fingerprint sensor. If communication is vital to your business, the LH701 comes equipped with a 1.3 megapixel camera, Bluetooth, Ethernet and WLAN 802.11BGN wireless network connection as well.

techparade

Lifebook LH701

techparad

Lifebook LH531 LAPTOP

If you’re searching for a high-performance laptop on a budget, then the LH531 could be for you. This laptop can come encased with up to 4GB of RAM, 500GB of storage and an i5 processor with Intel’s Turbo Boost Technology, which is more than enough for standard day-to-day computing tasks. Add into the mix an Nvidia GeForce 410M and an Intel HD Graphics 3000, and you have a laptop that can deliver a brilliant HD entertainment experience onto its 14-inch SuperFine HD LCD display. Available in three colors (Garnet Red, Cherry Pink and Shiny Black) that are tastefully lined with an elegant silver trim, the LH531 will surely impress onlookers.

LIFEBOOK NH751 LAPTOP

Gaming will never be the same again after you experience it on the Lifebook NH751, since it was tailor made for this purpose. Equipped with an Intel Quad-core i7-2630QM, Nvidia Gforce GT525M with Optimus technology and an internal digital theater system (DTS) projected on deluxe 5.1 speakers, this laptop is quite impressive. If that hasn’t lured you in just yet, the NH751 also has a built-in Blu-ray player to satisfy your HD movie desires, which you will view upon its gorgeous 17.3-inch Full HD LED display, guaranteeing a heightened and redefined gaming and multimedia experience.

LIFEBOOK P771 LAPTOP

June2011

Business professionals looking for an elegant ultra-portable laptop that is able to fully accommodate their daily needs will find the Lifebook P771 enticing. Equipped with 2GB RAM (8GB max), up to 640 GB of storage, and with a choice of an Intel QM67, i3 or i7 processor, this laptop might be petite but it’s definitely a performer. Moreover, those who are constantly on the go will not find mobility a concern, since the P771 only weighs a mere 1.3kg, with a magnificent 12-inch anti-glare backlit LED display and a battery life of up to 8 hours. If security is a prime concern, a Radio Frequency Fingerprint Sensor and Trusted Platform Module can be additionally installed as well.

Indeed, the Lifebook P771 is the perfect portable professional companion.

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June2011

LIFEBOOK SH761

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LAPTOP

The Lifebook SH761 is at the forefront of Fujitsu’s products, having been equipped with all the top-ofthe-line features. Boasting an Nvidia GeForce GT 520M, rest assured that visuals seen on this laptop’s 13.3inch SuperFine HD display will be nothing short of a superior graphic performance. The SH761 is not just a great performer but is extremely mobile as well, weighing in at a mere 1.6kg and is equipped with one of the highest capacity batteries in its class, which can grant up to 5 hours of unplugged usage. What makes this notebook unique is that if features Fujitsu’s patent-pending ventilation system, which ensures that your notebook will always perform like brand new without the hassles of daily maintenance. If you want a laptop that is “the ultimate luxury,” then treat yourself to a Lifebook SH761.

LIFEBOOK SH561 LAPTOP

techparade

Built for the rugged “road warrior,” The Lifebook SH561 aims to be a durable, portable yet full-featured notebook. Weighing in at only 1.75kg, and with a SuperFine HD back-light LED at 13.3-inches, there is no question that mobile professionals will be enticed by this laptop. Unique design features include textured palm rests, a sophisticated RF Fingerprint Sensor and four programmable application launch buttons. While its weight can be taken “lightly,” its performance should not because the SH561 can be equipped with an Intel i7 processor, 4GB of RAM (8GB max), and have up to 640GB of internal storage. If you’re looking for a notebook that is a portable allrounder, this laptop should definitely be one of your choices.

techparad

SanDisk Extreme Pro SDHC UHS-I CARD

When speed and reliability are everything, shoot like a pro with SanDisk Extreme Pro SDHC UHS-I memory cards. A new power core controller technology provides faster shot-to-shot performance (up to 45 megabytes per second) and its advanced Error Correction Code (ECC) engine improves overall data integrity and reliability of the card during read and write. Get more RAW + JPEG continuous burst mode shooting and capture full HD video like never before.

Acer Iconia Tab A500 TABLET PC

The new Acer Iconia Tab A500 enables customers to join the touch revolution and experience the joys of technology in a stunning multi-touch screen tablet device. Its fluid 1280x800 display—framed by a slim and modern alpine silver casing with waves of brushed aluminum—evokes savvy and sophistication, but what really sets the Acer Iconia Tab A500 apart is its power and performance. The tablet runs on the next-generation Android 3.0 operating system—with 16 and 32GB storage options—and features the new Nvidia Tegra 2 mobile super chip, an integrated ultra-low power GeForce engine, and Acer's intuitive and friendly user interface. Navigation through the interactive environment of the Acer Iconia Tab A500 looks amazing yet feels incredibly natural. This is thanks to the tablet's ambient light sensor, 10-point touch display, 6-axis motion sensing system, 1GB DDR2 RAM, and one-touch access to visual thumbnails, widgets, tasks, and any of the 150,000-plus choice apps from the Android Market.

June2011

Mobile entertainment that has to be seen and heard to be believed. Two Li-polymer batteries provide up to 8 hours of HD playback and gaming, 10 hours of Internet browsing, and 18 hours of standby time.

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The tablet also has built-in Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth connectivity features, while Acer's clear.fi technology connects all Acer devices—smartphones, laptops, desktops, HD media players and storage devices—on a network for instant digital media sharing. www.gadgetsmagazine.com.ph

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Toshiba Satellite P745 NOTEBOOK

June2011

The Toshiba Satellite P745 mobile entertainment powerhouse not only meets the needs of movie and sound enthusiasts, it can easily handle demanding entertainment tasks by working with powerful second-generation Intel processors and a wide selection of advanced multimedia features. These include a 14-inch HD LED backlit display combined with a choice of Intel HD Graphics 3000 or a more powerful Nvidia GeForce GT 525M graphics processor with 2GB of dedicated VRAM and the Nvidia Optimus technology, which intelligently optimizes the laptop to provide outstanding graphics performance when needed and extended battery life for longer enjoyment.

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Viewsonic ViewPad 7 TABLET

The ViewPad 7 is an ultimate innovative device which is able to connect fun and multitasking with a compact size, and better media performance than other smartphones. It is powered by the latest certified Google Android 2.2 that combines a Qualcomm MSM7227 600MHz processor with 3.5G data technology, enabling the user to enjoy the ultimate free access to more than 100,000 applications and access value-added services, such as Android Market, Google Maps, Voice Search, Gmail, YouTube and many more.

Extended with dual front and rear cameras (VGA and 3MP) allows you to do 3G video call functions, GPS Navigation, dual stereo speakers, highresolutions AV entertainment, Documents-to-go, an ultra long-life battery up to 10 hours and much more.

Php 16,900 (with 4GB SD card)

Viewsonic V350 SMARTPHONE

The V350, with a 3.5 inch display, is an active dual-SIM device running the Android 2.2 Froyo operating system which enables the use of two network services at the same time. It runs on Android 2.2, built-in with a HVGA capacitive touch screen, 5-megapixel auto-focus camera, microSD expansion, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 2.1 and assisted GPS navigation.

Viewsonic ViewPad 4 SMARTPHONE

Backed by ViewSonic’s comprehensive European support, the ViewPad 4 offers both phone and tablet functionality in a flash 10.1 enabled Androidbased 4.1-inch WVGA touch capacitive device. Based on a Qualcomm MSM 8255 1GHz platform, the ViewPad 4 delivers full mobile phone functionality bundled with HD 720p video recording, playback, upload and mini-HDMI 720p display output.

Viewsonic ViewPad 10 June2011

TABLET

The ViewPad 10 offers the best of where users have a choice from an optimized mobile device experience using the innovation Google Android OS for browsing and simple applications or the Windows 7 Environment for VPN, Outlook and other high-end requirements. Supported by high-speed Intel Atom 1.66GHz processor and sharp 1024x600 LED backlit panel, ViewPad 10 is suitable for those that want to use Windows to view Flash-based content and office programs, and also an Android for mobile entertainment.

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Electrolux Dynamica VACUUM CLEANER

June2011

Keep your house dynamically clean with Electrolux Dynamica. It boasts of a sleek razor-like design that makes it pretty to the eyes unlike your regular eye-sore broom. Its double-jointed floor nozzle enables the head to swivel from side-to-side, making cleaning those hard-to-reach areas and corners an absolute breeze. And, it comes with a parking stand for easy storage, which is ideal for those who live in condominiums. Weighing only 1.6 kilograms yet very powerful, its motor brush and cyclonic action allows the Dynamica to pick up everything from hair and fiber to dust and crumbs for a visible and effective clean feel on carpets, wooden surfaces and hard floors.

AgfaPhoto Selecta 14 DIGITAL CAMERA

Agfa makes a comeback in the imaging scene with the AgfaPhoto Selecta 14.

Compact and stylish, this camera is equipped with a powerful 15x wide optical zoom and 27mm wide-angle plus amazing features tailor-made for both exciting travels and sport events. Take your pictures to a whole new level of experience as the Selecta 14 comes bundled with 3D software. With the One-click upload functionality, there’s no need to wait to share your favorite photos on any social networking site. Features like Face, Smile and Blink Detection, Red Eye Removal and Panorama Pan Capturing make it easy for anyone to take beautiful pictures. The HD movie functionality and the included 3D software allow the Selecta 14 to turn your memories into an amazing experience. The camera is powered by four AA batteries and supports the SDHC memory card format.

Php 8,995

BlackBerry Playbook TABLET

techparade

The BlackBerry PlayBook from Research In Motion supports up to 1080p video playback. It features a 3-megapixel front-facing camera for video chatting over Wi-Fi and a rear-facing 5-megapixel camera that records 1080p video. This tablet has a 1024×600 WSVGA, 7-inch display and 3D graphics acceleration, as well as HDMI-out and holds a variety of sensors, including gyroscope, magnetometer and accelerometer.

The PlayBook uses the Texas Instruments’ OMAP4430 processor, allowing it to support highresolution video playback (H.264, MPEG4, WMV), and audio (MP3, AAC 5.1, WMA 5.1 audio playback) formats. It also has a micro-HDMI port for HDMI video output. And yes, it has Adobe Flash supported webkit browser, HDMI output and a whole array of multitasking capabilities.

techparad

LG Optimus 2x SMARTPHONE

Certified by the Guinness Book of World Records as the world’s first dual-core smartphone, the LG Optimus 2x sports a dual-core Tegra 2 processor and runs at 1GHz. Powered by Android 2.2 (Froyo), the latest smartphone from LG with a 4-inch IPS LCD-capacitive touchscreen display allows users to experience improved performance when browsing the web, downloading applications and multitasking.

Packed with the latest features the LG Optimus 2x has an 8-megapixel camera with full HD 1080p video playback and recording with a 1.3-megapixel front-facing camera for video calls. Content can be played back using the HDMI interface which shows content on HD TV displays to full HD quality. The LG Optimus 2x will also offer console-like gaming experience brought to life by the Nvidia graphics dual-core processor and the phone’s gyro sensor.

June2011

Php 27,990

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gadgetslab

tried and tested to find out what’s hot and what’s not

ASUS ROG G53SW NOTEBOOK

Stealth for the in-your-face gamer

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X-STREET STYLE HEADPHONES

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GAINWARD GEFORCE GTX560 VIDEOCARD Phantom power your graphics

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SAMSUNG ST700

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DIGITAL CAMERA

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Think once, shoot twice

June2011

AUDIO TECHNICA ATH-XS5 Street style and quality

www.gadgetsmagazine.com.ph

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gadgetsla

AUDIO-TECHNICA ATH-XS5 X-STREET STYLE HEADPHONES

By Paolo Toledo

SPECIFICATIONS: DRIVER: 40mm OUTPUT SOUND: 100dB/mW FREQ RESPONSE: 10 - 22,000Hz MAX INPUT POWER: 1,000mW IMPEDANCE: 47 WEIGHT: 155g (approx.)

PLUG: 3.5mm gold-plated stereo mini-plug CORD: 1.2m (Y-Cable) WHAT’S HOT: • Double headband offers extreme durability • Comfortable soft ear pads • Ear-covering cans deliver warm and crisp sound • Classic, fashionable look WHAT’S NOT: • Some may find shape irregular • Bass lacks thump at times BOTTOMLINE: The Audio-Technica ATH-XS5 headphones are a good set of entry-level ear cans. Audio quality is superb, while durability and comfort are the main draws in its design, not to mention a classy, no-nonsense look.

BUY METER

When it comes to headphones, I personally opt for function over fashion. Performance, build, and audio quality are on top of the list, even if the headphones are used just for casual listening. Aesthetics will come in second—although I wouldn’t touch any of the bulky eyesores out there. Striking that precarious balance between both internal and external goodness is always the key for me.

Given the argument, Audio-Technica has always delivered a satisfying set of headphones in its product line, with various models and price ranges that hit all the right targets in performance, comfort and appearance. I own a pair from the Japanese audio equipment manufacturer, and I am very happy with its audio quality.

June2011

But for this review, the cups in question are the Audio-Technica ATH-XS5 headphones. This pair is considered an entry-level set given its price range and overall features.

It’S also a part of the brand’s X-Street Style line, which is the rugged product series aimed more for the active young listener, and designed to face “extreme” conditions and rough handling.

Durability is indeed the main draw of the ATH-XS5. It’s features a “double headband” made of rubberized plastic that’s flexible enough to bend in almost insane angles. But do keep in mind that this IS an entry-level set so don’t

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go about abusing it to its limits.

The ATH-XS5 also has an elastomer frame and is engineered to absorb external impact, while comfortably fitting snugly around your dome.

Which brings us to its second key feature: comfort. At first, the band of the ATH-XS5 might seem irregularshaped but when fitted onto your head, the design actually allows the double headband to sit flat on the skull. This not only relieves uncomfortable pressure points on the head, but also allows you to conveniently wear it even on top of a baseball cap. And with the full frame made out of the same flexible lightweight material, these headphones offer light comfort at just 155g.

Both earcups are designed to be elongated and nicely cover each ear without developing a sticky itch, while also containing the sound and preventing a certain degree of external noise to leak in. The pads themselves are fitted with a patterned soft pleather that both

feels and looks great—although it does seem prone to develop sweat during prolonged usage outdoors.

Audio quality is quite superb, given its entry-level standards. The 40mm drivers in each cup deliver a wide range and crisp sound reproduction across various musical genres and/ or audio files. Looking at the cups closely, each driver within the pad is angled for a better overall acoustic and sound orientation locked around each ear. The closed can does develop a tad amount of reverb to some sounds, but the overall quality is warm and smooth across all levels, although there are some cases where bass lacks that desirable “thump,” or when high levels lack emphasis against the noise. Of course, not to get too critical since the ATH-XS5 is still in the lower-to-mid priced sound range, but it does offer its own surprising audio brilliance without nitpicking the details reserved for the high-end performance headphones.

8.9

/10

Wrapping up the review on the ATH-XS5 is its overall aesthetics (as I have said is the last priority for me, but is no less important as a purchasing factor). The good thing about these headphones is that while it delivers excellent durability, comfort, and audio quality, it also looks great. If you can get over the irregularity of the flat double headband, the matte-black lightweight plastic build gives it a classic and clean look. My favorite touch is actually the glossy finish (in either white, black or red) on the cups themselves, which serves as a funky yet classy accent.

All things considered, the AudioTechnica ATH-XS5 headphones is one of the best entry-level investments out there when looking for rugged, everyday listening ear cans.

Audio performance is well above expectation, while durability and comfort are well covered. It indeed strikes the good balance while giving you that X-factor in Street Style appeal.

www.gadgetsmagazine.com.ph

BASKETBALL SHOES

By Benjamin Arnold

June2011

CONVERSE SICKS MID

WHAT’S HOT: • Style compliments ones height.

• Light on the feet.

• Nice color and texture contrast • Vintage yet modern style • Nice ankle support • Quite durable • Superb grip

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WHAT’S NOT: • Moderately average in terms of comfort.

BOTTOMLINE: The Converse Sicks Mid are stylish and durable shoes that can be used both on and off the court.

BUY METER

8.9 Converse Sicks Mid Photos by Paul Ticzon

/10

Out of the box, the Converse Sicks Mid basketball shoes are quite big. This may be because my shoe size is 11 or maybe because of how they were designed, but once put on—contrary to how they look—they are light on the feet. In addition to the light weight, another thing that I like about the Sicks Mid is its high-top style. As I am 5’11”, the shoes complement my height well, giving me a more solid-looking stature.

The smooth leather exterior and the woven mesh paneling create a wonderful contrast in terms of texture and are quite breathable.

Although, I would have preferred the shoes in simple black and white, or possibly a dark purple, the mix of light gray leather with the charcoal

mesh plus the light green accents give it a modern fresh look that stands out, yet isn’t an eye sore.

Initially, the shoes are like any other pair of shoes in terms of comfort.

They are fitted with a cushioned foot bed that provides some extra comfort but is more moderately average. They fit the feet rather snuggly, which is something I look for in a shoe. Shoes that don’t fit right tend to have little spaces or air pockets that, while walking, can be quite uncomfortable on the feet.

The high-top design also gives amazing ankle support—something that I would believe to be quite essential when involved in sports such as basketball. Although I don’t have weak ankles, I personally used them while I was at the gym and

ran 5km with them on the treadmill.

Even though I wasn’t quite used to the support on my ankles—which resulted in me walking stiffly for the first 1km—I was quite happy with the feeling of knowing that my ankles were well propped up. This is a plus for people who have a fear of spraining their ankles while being physically active. I also give high praise to its grip, as the design is in such a way that the possibility of slipping while walking is very slim.

Upon close inspection, the shoes are threaded together reasonably tight, showing the high quality craftsmanship that was put into these shoes. Even while walking through the rain, these shoes did a great job. When I got caught in a heavy downpour, all my clothes got soaking wet. The Sicks Mid however,

almost seemed as if they never even touched the water. I have had experience where shoes absorb water, which is not only annoying to have that squishy feeling in your shoes, but also ruins the binding.

With these shoes, they give me the impression that they repel water because they were nearly dry after running through puddles.

To sum it up, the Converse Sicks Mid lived up to its design. Though these shoes have a fairly average feature when it comes to comfort, in terms of style and durability, these shoes can hold its own—whether you use them on the court or just to look awesome.

gadgetslab

The Sicks Mid have a vintage basketball shoe look to it but with a modern twist that makes them less dated. Since I started wearing these shoes, people would have similar reactions to the style saying, “Wow, very nice shoes” without knowing that they were Converse. After I would inform them about that little fact, they would continue to stare at my feet for another few minutes in disbelief as they instantly think of “Chuck Taylor’s” when they hear the name Converse.

gadgetsla

EPSON ME OFFICE 620F MULTIFUNCTION PRINTER

By Benjamin Arnold

SPECIFICATIONS: FUNCTIONS: Print, Copy, Scan & Fax INK SYSTEM: 4-colour PRINT SPEED: Black - Approx. 34 ppm (draft); Color - Approx. 15 ppm (draft); SCANNER TYPE: Flat bed color image scanner with auto document feeder OPTICAL RESOLUTION: 1200 dpi SCAN AREA: 216 x 297 mm (8.5 x 11.7 inch) TYPE OF FAX: Walk-up black-andwhite & color fax capability FAX SPEED: Approx. 3sec/page CONNECTIVITY: Hi-speed USB 2.0 MAX PAPER SIZE & CAPACITY: 8.5-inches x 44-inches; 120 sheets, A4 plain paper (64g/m2) PRICE: Php 6,495 WHAT’S HOT: • Clear smudge proof prints • Clean scans • Composite black option to maximize print outputs • Fast and silent scanning • Easy auto document feeder for quick copies WHAT’S NOT: • Loud when printing • Impossible to print when one ink cartridge is empty BOTTOMLINE: The Epson ME Office 620F is a valuable addition to any office that desires both high quality and high quantity outputs, with the added features of being multifunctional.

BUY METER

I have always been a little picky when it comes to the tools or products I use for my artistic purposes. I always have to have a specific type of pencil, a certain kind of pen or a precise brand of paper. Even when it comes to the type of printers or ink that I use, I can be quite critical because I am always looking for something that can deliver the best results. So when it comes to printing out colored images, Epson has usually been on the top of my list.

June2011

The Epson ME Office 620F multifunction printer comes in the standard corporate black color and is quite big and boxy. But that is the usual case when it comes to these kind of printers, as they need the space to fit in all the varied features.

This specific model has the usual functions of printing, scanning, copying and faxing, all of which faired quite well during testing.

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In terms of printing, the Epson ME Office 620F prints beautifully clear, crisp images. Right out of the tray, the prints don’t need extra time to dry as they used the Epson DURABrite Ultra ink that doesn’t smudge, fade or smear with water. I also like the fact that the inks are in individual cartridges, making it more cost efficient in the sense that you only replace the inks that are used up. It also has an additional function www.gadgetsmagazine.com.ph

that, when the black ink is running low, the printer offers to use all the inks to create a composite black that extends the ink life. This, however, makes the black printouts less vibrant, but if you are after quantity over quality, this is an ideal function.

We were able to print around 200 to 250 prints before one of the ink cartridges emptied on us.

One issue I have with Epson printers is when one cartridge becomes empty, the whole printer seizes to function. This holds true with the Epson ME Office 620F. At least the scanning function still works even if the ink cartridge is empty.

Another issue is that the printer sounds like it is always angry, sucking in the paper and making a loud scary mechanical sound that constantly makes me turn my head

to see if there was a paper jam, but only to find out that the printer naturally makes that kind of sound when printing.

In terms of scanning and copying, the printer does a fairly clean job.

The scans come out clear without taking on the texture of the paper, which is quite a problem when using other scanners to scan illustrations.

With the Epson ME Office 620F scanner, the scans come out clean and smooth with no paper texture visible. For the copying, it comes out the same, dirt free and clear.

What I like about the set up of the scanner is that the scanning bulb runs vertically to the paper rather than horizontally like other scanners. Because of the vertical setup, scans are processed faster

8.7

/10

while being super quiet. In fact, it was so quiet that I thought that it wasn’t scanning at all. This is a way better improvement compared with other scanners, not to mention the auto document feeder that can accommodate around 30 sheets, making copying quick and easy.

For faxing, the Epson ME Office 620F works to the level of other fax machines, with the redial and speed dial functions, making processing time shorter.

All in all, the Epson ME Office 620F multifunction printer is a reasonable addition to any office that desires quality prints with a high quantity output.

www.gadgetsmagazine.com.ph

DIGITAL CAMERA

By M.R. Gavin

June2011

SAMSUNG PL210

SPECIFICATIONS: MEGAPIXEL COUNT: 14.5 Mega pixel ZOOM AND OPTICS: 1.0X ~ 5.0X(Optical x Digital : 50.0X), Play mode : 1.0X ~ 13.5X PHYSICAL DIMENSIONS: 100.4 x 58.5 x 19.7mm WEIGHT: 148g MEMORY MEDIA: Micro SD

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WHAT’S HOT: • SLR-like photo quality (14.5mp) • Pocket size • A range of shooting modes WHAT’S NOT: • Lagging after shots • Hard to press navigation buttons BOTTOMLINE: The Samsung PL210 is your ultimate substitute to a DSLR camera

BUY METER

8.5

/10

Samsung has always churned out impressive cameras, whether in a phone, point-and shoots or even DSLRs. Photos come out clear and crisp; it’s as if there is a Photoshop application inside the camera.

We all know how shaky our hands can be and this usually ruins the shot. The PL210 offers a Dual Image Stabilization feature that comes combined with Optical Image Stabilization, giving users sharper images no matter how you take your photo. I’ve tried using this in low light and even while on zoom,

the anti-shake feature still works.

I always complained about my past digital cameras have really small screens as it makes it difficult to see if the photos were fine or blurred. The PL210 has a 3-inch display that has environmental illumination technology that adjusts LCD brightness for good viewing even under the sun. Its 720p HD video recording capability captures 30 frames per second and allows a really long record time. You could also use the zoom function even while recording a video.

Users could also put special effects on their photos using the Magic

Frame feature, although there are not much templates to choose from.

Customers, however, may still opt to use another feature that adds different effects to your images, such as those you can find in entrylevel DSLRs like Vignette, Half-Tone Dotto, Vivid and Soft Focus.

Like most cameras, this Samsung has a Smart Face Recognition feature that can detect as many as 20 faces, making them clearer and more detailed. It also has a range of shooting modes. This can also be your ultimate on-the-go media tool because it can record conversation for up to 10 hours.

My only issue here is that shutter lag is a bit long. For an impatient user, this could be a downer. Also, the default high-resolution file size mode can create a bit of a problem, especially when you need to send the files electronically. Users might need to shrink or resize the files for easy uploading, Samsung probably has the most value-for-money camera products in the market today and the PL210 is no exception. It can be a point-andshoot substitute for those bulky SLR cameras.

gadgetslab

The PL210 is no exception to the great camera lines that Samsung has launched for gadgeteers. If you want a compact camera that has DSLR features, this one is for you.

Its 14.2-megapixel resolution and 27mm wide angle and 10-times optical zoom make it perfect for outdoor photos.

gadgetsla

SYNOLOGY DS411J NETWORK ATTACHED STORAGE

By John Nieves

WHAT’S HOT: • Easy to set up and use • Versatile, has a lot of functionality WHAT’S NOT: • Novice users may find it difficult to use advanced features BOTTOMLINE: The Synology DS411j is a great NAS if you’re looking to expand your home network’s storage capacity.

BUY METER

8.8

/10

June2011

With most tech-inclined households housing at least a notebook, a desktop and one or two smartphone/tablet, having a place to store all of the content from these gadgets is almost a necessity. A home with a central server or a NAS (network attached storage) means that these devices need not store content on the device themselves, thereby freeing up space and allowing other devices to share content. The Synlogy DS411j is a four-bay NAS solution aimed at households that want the benefits of a home server.

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Why get a standalone NAS over a dedicated home server? Well, for one thing, a NAS is a cheaper affair as it consumes far less power than an old PC relegated to server duties (as a general rule, the older PCs get, the more power they consume compared with new models). It doesn’t need its own keyboard, mouse and monitor, and is far smaller dimensionally. The DS411j is small enough to be put right under your PC stand, or a small corner of your living room. It sports a utilitarian white/gray finish with a large ON button on the front, along www.gadgetsmagazine.com.ph

with several LED indicator lights.

The bays of the DS411j are accessible through the back. Pop out the screws retaining the back case and you’re good to go. There are four bays in all, and the DS411j can support up to 12TB of space, with one 3TB HDD in each bay.

Setting up the DS411j is pretty easy—you just need to plug in your HDD into the bays, connect it to your network via the Ethernet cable and run the appropriate software. What’s nice about it is that you’re able to look for, and connect to the DS411j

easily via the software included—no fiddling with IP addresses, none of that hard core networking stuff.

running all day and night long. Mac users are also in for a treat, as the DS411j is Time Machine-capable.

Specswise, the DS411j has a 1.2GHz GHz CPU coupled with 128MB of RAM. It also has its own encryption hardware, so if you’re worried about security this is the device to get.

Once it’s up and running, it’s easy to use the DS411j. The included software makes using it easy, and you’ll be able to map drives to your PC easily. You can also use the DS411j as a torrent device and let it download torrents by its lonesome rather than keeping your PC up and

This, coupled with DLNA capabilities, iTunes server compatibility and other features like backup functionality really, makes the DS411j worth the money. My only complaint is that it requires quite a bit of reading (and a bit of networking knowledge) to use all of the features in the DS411j.

But even if you’re a rank novice, you’ll find that the DS411j is a darn good buy.

www.gadgetsmagazine.com.ph

PROCESSOR

By John Nieves

WHAT’S HOT: • Can run mainstream games on its own, without a dedicated GPU • 3D trans-coding without a dedicated GPU • Performance is leaps and bounds ahead of previous generation

June2011

INTEL CORE I5 2500K

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WHAT’S NOT: • You will need a new motherboard if you decide to upgrade BOTTOMLINE: The numbers don’t lie. If you’re upgrading your PC and value performance, the second-generation Intel Core i5 2500K should be on top of your list.

BUY METER

9.0

/10

After months of being available in other countries and territories, we finally get our hands on Intel’s second generation of Core I processors, code-named Sandybridge. The new chips are made from Intel’s 32nm manufacturing process, and have been redesigned to perform faster than the previous generation while consuming less power.

Of course, all this talk about what the processor could do is nothing without real world benchmarks.

To that end, I put the Intel Core i5 2500K through a series of performance tests, including real game tests using Battlefield Bad Company 2. Intel sent the Core i5 2500K with a reference DH67 Intel motherboard, 8GB of DDR3 memory and an Nvidia GeForce GTX 570 GPU. Some may notice that the test rig is a bit skewed in the region of high-end products in terms of the hardware, but to be realistic, the price range that the Core i5 2500K belongs to means that typical PC configurations would be similar to the test rig.

First benchmark was Unigine’s

Heaven benchmark. With the screen resolution set at 1680x1050 with 4x anti-aliasing and anisotrophy set to 4x, the Core i5 2500K managed a nice and smooth average FPS of 41.6, with a score of 1047.

Futuremark’s PC Mark 7 is another important benching tool, as it takes account of real life usage scenarios including web browsing, video encoding and gaming and generates results of all of that.

The complete system managed an excellent score of 2957 PCMarks.

The last tool that we used to gauge the raw performance numbers of the Core i5 2500K is MAXON’s Cinebench 11.5, a real-world cross platform test suite that evaluates computer’s performance capabilities, and is based on MAXON’s award-

winning animation software CINEMA 4D, which is used extensively by studios and production houses worldwide for 3D content creation.

The benchmark with Cinebench 11.5 was impressive - the Core i5 2500K managed to net an impressive score of 4.84 almost catching up to the previous generation’s Core i7 860’s score of 5.06. Clearly, the i5 2500K is a massive step up.

Gaming with the i5 2500K was extremely pleasant, and in conjunction with the GTX 570, my frames never dropped below 50.

I was happily blasting everything and everyone with my Carl Gustav without worries, and is definitely an improvement over my old i5.

gadgetslab

One of the most significant changes in the Sandybridge chips is the integration of the CPU, graphics, memory controller and PCI-E connectivity into a single die, greatly reducing production cost and overall complexity of the chip.

Another main difference is its video processing prowess via Intel HD Graphics 3000 over the previous generation of chips. The Core i5 2500K, for example, can run many mainstream games today on decent resolutions, without the need for dedicated GPUs—a feat that was difficult to achieve realistically with the previous generation of chips. In addition, the Core i5 2500K has 3D trans-coding abilities, again a feature that was only accessible before through the use of a dedicated GPU.

gadgetsla

LENOVO B470 NOTEBOOK

By M.R. Gavin

SPECIFICATIONS: OPERATING SYSTEM: Windows 7 home premium or professional PROCESSOR: Intel Core™ i3-2310M Processor ( 2.10GHz 1333MHz 3MB ) MEMORY: 4 GB PC3-10600 DDR3 SDRAM 1333MHz DISPLAY: 14.0” HD Glossy WHAT’S HOT: • Curved chiclet-type keyboard • Clear and bright screen • Nvidia GeForce 410M WHAT’S NOT: • Short battery life BOTTOMLINE: In a very reasonable price, Lenovo B470 is your lappie either for home or for business.

BUY METER

9.2

/10

I recently bought a new game and tried it on the Lenovo B470 test unit. Unsurprisingly, I got more than what I expected.

June2011

For a game fan like me, it has always been hard to find the perfect laptop. I always stumble upon notebooks that don’t support enough graphics or keeps lagging. I almost gave up finding one, until I got my hands on a Lenovo B470.

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I was able to play my games properly, thanks to the B470’s Nvidia GeForce 410M that delivers amazing graphics. Its 13.3-inch screen is just enough for any kind of laptop needs.

Although a little smaller than the average 14-inch notebook screens, but it certainly works well with almost everything.

There are plenty of ports on the sides like VGA, Ethernet, HDMI, 4 USB 2.0 ports (one of which is an eSATA/ USB combo drive), audio www.gadgetsmagazine.com.ph

ports, 6-in-1 card reader, and optical disk drive and burner. The keyboard is chiclet type and a bit curved in for easier typing. The touchpad is wide with two separate mouse buttons which makes it easier to navigate.

I tried running multiple applications all at the same time and it doesn’t lag. Even high-definition movies were not a problem at all. I can see all the graphical details on the games. I usually have to adjust the brightness of my notebooks to make it just right for the eyes and to save on energy consumption but this notebook is really clear and bright despite the fact that it was on powersave mode. Its 1366x768 resolution is capable of 720p HD viewing, and can go as high as up to 1080p HD when connected to an HDTV.

The B470 comes with an integrated 3G and Wi-Fi makes connectivity easier while on the go, but the short battery life is a downer. It could only last three hours on full charge. If you carry around this Lenovo notebook, be sure to bring the AC adapter.

Lenovo B470 has the secondgeneration Intel Core i3 processor with Sandybridge graphics. It is also packed with Lenovo’s business features such as OneKey Rescue System that can protect and restore data in case of a crash and DirectShare for syncing files with another computer without using the Internet connection. It also has RapidBoot technology which makes startup and shutdown faster.

A fingerprint scanner is situated on

the lower right of the keyboard; this gives additional protection for the laptop and the users. This makes it safer from hacking or unauthorized usage of the notebook.

While I was using it, a friend even admired its metal finish that looked classy and elegant. Definitely, the Lenovo B470 combines work and play with its features and special add ons. It’s design makes it sleek and stylish without sacrificing good functionality. There’s even an option to get a B470 bundled with Windows 7 home Premium or Professional.

www.gadgetsmagazine.com.ph

SMARTPHONE

By JC Ansis

SPECIFICATIONS FORM FACTOR: Candy bar DIMENSION: 103.8 x 52.5 x 13.9 mm SCREEN: 3.2” AMOLED capacitive touchscreen, 360 x 640 pixels PROCESSOR: 680Mhz ARM 11 processor CAMERA: 8 MP (back), 0.3 MP (front) CONNECTIVITY: GPRS, EDGE, 3G HSDPA, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth OS: Symbian 3

June2011

NOKIA C6-01

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WHAT’S HOT: • Great build and classy look • Excellent audio quality • USB on-the-go support • 8MP camera WHAT’S NOT: • Browser’s poor response • Camera’s fixed-focus could do better BOTTOMLINE: If you’re looking for a reliable, goodlooking smartphone that combines “pocketability” and performance, the Nokia C6-01 is an impressive option.

BUY METER

The last time I owned a Nokia phone was in 2004. It was a white 3110 and was conveniently small, had animated screensavers and polyphonic ringtones. And it glowed in the dark. Back then, Nokia phones were hot like freshly baked butter cookies.

It came out with new handsets almost every month, and people were purchasing them like crazy. So when I was handed the Nokia C6-01, I actually felt oblivious. I didn’t know what to expect because I was never really into the Symbian OS and I was clueless of Nokia’s recent developments as far as touchscreen phones were concerned.

Let’s talk about aesthetics first. The Nokia C6-01 measures 103.8mm (tall) x 52.5mm (wide) x 13.9mm (thick) and weighs about 131 grams.

It’s a chunky gizmo—a bit on the heavy side. The housing consists of a chrome trim bordering the touchscreen and a metal rear casing.

The metal cover gives the phone an “indestructible” feel to it, but also provides an ergonomic sense of comfort in the palm of your hand.

The Nokia C6-01 is powered by a 680Mhz ARM 11 processor and comes preloaded with Nokia’s Symbian^3 OS. The device runs on 256MB of RAM and has approximately 340MB of internal memory. For the display, the C6-

On the homescreen are three panes that can be populated with a bunch of widgets, shortcuts, apps and other stuff. It’s got a block-like layout, and tapping or holding on any item allows you to change or remove them with ease. Though I must warn you that anyone with remotely big fingers should steer clear of this phone for fear of frustration when typing a text message using the QWERTY keypad. The keys are small and sometimes what the screen captures isn’t accurate, causing me to use “backspace” a lot. I ended up using the phone entirely in portrait mode with its numeric pad.

If you’re worrying about connectivity, you shouldn’t be. The smartphone has all the essential tools one might need on the go. The C6-01 has Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, USB on-the-go support, HSDPA and GPS. There’s a

built-in software for all your office documents and there’s one app that lumps your Facebook and Twitter updates together. Additional apps can be downloaded from Nokia’s Ovi Store which is growing slowly but obviously still very far behind its Apple and Android rivals. Setting up mail accounts for Yahoo! and Gmail was a piece of cake with its improved mail client support.

I did, however, have some issues with Nokia’s browser. It was very slow and stuttered when swiping around, especially on large pages.

The browser struggled when trying to pan, zoom, and input text. And loading rich websites can lead to somewhat jerky navigation.

To compensate for its flaws, the C6-01 is equipped with an 8-megapixel camera. It’s easy to use and very clear-cut in snapping shots. The snapper has fixed focus, dual LED flash, face detection, geo-tagging, and 2x digital zoom capabilities. I experienced a minor issue with macro shots, which often looked blurry and murky. The editing software that comes with it is very useful and one of the

/10

most comprehensive editing tools I’ve seen built in a smartphone.

Video recording was slightly above average, capturing videos of up to 1280 x 720 resolutions at 25fps.

The music player can play MP3, AAC, AAC+, eAAC+, WMA, AMR, and MIDI formats, while the video player supports MPEG4, H.263, H.264, RealVideo 10, and Flash Video. Voice calls were clear and crisp. When I received or made a call in a busy environment, the Nokia C6-01 still maintained good volume and audibility. The phone’s battery life lasted for about two days on a full battery charge, despite my heavy use of the camera, web browsing, GPS and media playback.

Overall, the Nokia C6-01 is a solid gadget. Nokia handsets have been known to be trusty gadgets that gets the job done but with little flair, and the C6-01 is one of them. Though it may lack some of the glitz of rival devices based on Android or iOS, the Nokia C6-01 performs to be a dependable everyday smartphone.

gadgetslab

A 0.3-megapixel camera for video calling can be seen on top of the screen. Underneath the display are three backlit buttons for Call and End, flanked by a Menu button in the middle. Lined on the right side of the phone are the volume buttons, lock switch and the camera shortcut button. Revealed at the bottom are a microUSB port for PC connectivity, the charging connector port, and a 3.5mm headphone jack.

01 features a ClearBlack AMOLED capacitive touchscreen. There was a high level of responsiveness when I played around with it, having minimal instances of sluggishness.

The screen does a great job of showing off its colors even in bright light.

8.4

gadgetsla

SAMSUNG ST700 DIGITAL CAMERA

By Michelle Callanta-Toledo

SPECIFICATIONS: MEGAPIXEL COUNT: 16-megapixels ZOOM AND OPTICS: 5x zoom; optical x digital: 25x PHYSICAL DIMENSION: 99 x 55 x 20 mm WEIGHT: 121g (without battery and memory card) ESTIMATED BATTERY LIFE: Approx.

180 shots MEMORY USED/INTERNAL CAPACITY: External memory: Micro SD Card (up to 4GB) Micro SDHC (up to 8GB) WHAT’S HOT: • DualView camera • Chic design WHAT’S NOT: • Touchscreen not as tactile • Lackluster functions and results BOTTOMLINE: For those who want amazing and accurate self-portraits as well as a break from your run-of-the-mill photo, the Samsung ST700 is your camera of choice.

BUY METER

7.9

/10

A few months ago, my purse was stolen while I was at an anniversary party for one popular semi-underground indie bar. Now I didn’t mind that my wallet or even my banged up 3-year old phone with all of my contacts was in that purse. What hurt the most was to lose the camera my husband had given me two Christmases ago: a Samsung IT100.

He’d gotten it for me after he learned that it was a camera I really enjoyed using (after having reviewed it earlier that year). Not only did I love that camera, my own sisters loved it too that they decided to make me the “official photographer” of all our nights-out. My one sister was so envious; she went off and bought herself a Samsung TL205.

June2011

So when I was given the chance to review the Samsung ST700, I was absolutely excited to see what it could do. Being pleased with the results and performance of my last camera, I immediately (and perhaps, haphazardly) had high hopes for this model.

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Now you couldn’t exactly hold that against me especially once you open the box and see this incredibly chic and shiny camera sitting in it. As it is a DualView camera, the camera face is a mirror—one clear enough for you to check your own makeup with—and where you can find a 1.8-inch front LCD screen and comes with a 5x optical zoom lens starting at 26mm equivalent and a 16-megapixel sensor. At the back is a 3-inch LCD touchscreen with one home button at the bottom rightwww.gadgetsmagazine.com.ph

hand corner. On top is your Playback button, Power button, shutter with zoom, and F.LCD button to activate the front LCD for more accurate selfportraits. Hidden behind a right-hand side compartment is a USB slot for the charger and the AV as well as a slot for an HDMI cable. The bottom latch is for the lithium-ion battery and the 4GB microSD card (which the camera already comes with).

But that’s as far as it goes when it comes to anything external.

Everything else you can find inside the 3-inch LCD touchscreen. Press the Home button and you’ll find an array of features and functions, separated into four pages, if you will, which you slide to the left.

The first page includes: Smart Auto, Program, Smart Movie, Self Shot, Children, Pose Guide, Album and

Settings. The second page: Jump Shot, Movie, Scene, Vignetting, Beauty Shot, Magic Frame, Photo Editor, Photo Filter. The third: Movie Filter, Night, Palette Effect, Close Up, Simple Shot, DUAL IS, Slide Show, Voice Recorder. On the fourth is Magazine View.

All these can be activated with just one touch. And with all of these intuitive features to fiddle with, you’re sure to be entertained and amused with all the kinds of shots you can take and how you want to present them. Of course, I went straight for the Beauty Shot function to see how Samsung could’ve possibly improved this God-send of a technology. Now if my old camera just had one setting for the Beauty Shot, this model allows you to adjust the Face Tone (brightness)

and the Face Retouch (blur and “smoothness”), though I suggest you just keep both settings on high for quick and painless photo-editing results.

Now I do have to admit that despite the intuitive interface and the pictures that came with each function (so you know what does what), I did have trouble getting around the camera via the touchscreen. I guess you can say that I’m not used to having to press and drag a screen using a significant amount of pressure. So maneuvering isn’t as quick as I’d like. But nevertheless, the Samsung ST700 can be an awesome digital camera to own, if you don’t mind man-handling it a little.

www.gadgetsmagazine.com.ph

VIDEOCARD

By John Nieves

WHAT’S HOT: • Cheaper than the GTX 560 Ti without a large compromise on performance • Includes benchmarking software from Gainward

June2011

GAINWARD GEFORCE GTX 560 PHANTOM

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WHAT’S NOT: • Virtually similar to the GTX 560 Ti externally, a bit of variance would have been nice BOTTOMLINE: While we haven’t heard a word on local pricing, if online pricing is any indication, the Gainward GTX 560 Phantom is a good compromise for gamers who can’t afford the higher tier GTX 560 Ti that the company is offering.

BUY METER

8.7

/10

Nvidia is patching up all the holes in its product line, as evidenced by the release of the GTX 560 lineup. Not to be confused with the GTX 560 Ti, the GTX 560 is targeted at the $199 to $220 range—it’s a card that’s built for gamers that have extra cash to spare, but don’t want to go all in with either the GTX 570 and its bigger and brasher brethren.

The overall appearance of the Gainward GTX 560 is eerily similar to its bigger brother, the 560 Ti. The package includes the card and

a 6-pin connector plus the display driver, but other than that, it’s pretty sparse. It is also a bit wider than a reference 560, occupying 2.5 PCI-E slots as opposed to 2 slots.

Our test rig for this particular card is a second-generation Intel Core i5 2500K (3.30GHz, 6MB cache) on a reference Intel DH67 Intel motherboard with 8GB of DDR3 memory. For comparison’s sake, we also conducted benchmark tests with an Inno3D GTX 570, a card that’s one tier higher than the GTX 560, running stock. Two benchmarking software was used during the test: Unigine’s Heaven and Futuremark’s 3D Mark Vantage. Identical settings were used for benching both cards (same resolution, Anti-aliasing settings, etc.) to keep a level playing field for both cards.

After installing the driver with the card (the card was under press embargo when we reviewed it, so no online drivers from Nvidia), we ran Unigine’s Heaven benchmark twice—an initial run with the resolution set to 1680x1050, 4X anti-aliasing and anisotropy set to 4. The initial pass yielded good results, netting a nice 32.3 average FPS (frames per second), with an overall score of 814. In comparison, the GTX 570 got an understandably higher FPS of 41.4 with an overall score of 1044. A higher resolution of 1920x1080 (with everything else being unchanged) netted the GTX 560 a lower overall FPS of 28.4, and a lower score of 715.

Futuremark’s 3D Mark series of benchmarking tools has long been a reviewer’s staple and 3D Mark Vantage isn’t an exception. We ran

3D Mark Vantage at a resolution of 1920x1080p, with the presets set to performance and Anisotropy on 16 and the multi-sample count at x4.

The GTX 560 scored a nice overall score of 10,825, with the first test grabbing a nice 38.5 FPS, and the second test netting a 35.46.

Of course, all the benchmarks in the world won’t real world game performance, so we loaded up Battlefield Bad Company 2, EA’s definitive multiplayer shooter. With the resolution set to 1920x1080, the game never dipped below 55 FPS, even with all the frenetic shooting and stabbing going on around me. It also performed well on my current MMO addiction World of Tank; netting a nice 50-30 FPS average (my previous 460 only managed an average of 30-40 FPS).

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The GTX 560 nixes the Ti suffix, and while it uses the same GF114 GPU (think processor, but for videocards) it takes a hit with the removal of one streaming multiprocessor.

The standard clock speed for a reference GTX 560 places it at around 810 MHz. The GTX 560 Phantom has a stock clock speed of 822 MHz, indicating that it’s slightly overclocked straight from the factory—a usual occurrence with cards nowadays. Other specs of the Gainward GeForce GTX 560 Phantom include 1024MB GDDR5 (256 bits) memory, clockspeed of 2020 MHz and a custom cooling solution that combines heatpipes, heatsinks and two fans.

gadgetsla

PHILIPS SHL5000 HEADBAND HEADPHONES

By Steven Vea

SPECIFICATIONS: ACOUSTIC SYSTEM: Open DIAPHRAGM: Mylar dome FREQUENCY RESPONSE: 10 - 28 000 Hz IMPEDANCE: 32 Ohm MAXIMUM POWER INPUT: 50 mW SENSITIVITY: 106 dB SPEAKER DIAMETER: 30 mm CABLE CONNECTION: Two-parallel, symmetric CABLE LENGTH: 1.2 m CONNECTOR: 3.5 mm stereo FINISHING OF CONNECTOR: 24k Gold plated WHAT’S HOT: • Extremely comfy ear cushions • Lightweight WHAT’S NOT: • Lack of bass definition BOTTOMLINE: The Philips SHL5000s are great economical headphones. They are comfortable, stylish and provide a good sound in relation to its unburdening price.

BUY METER

8.8

/10

June2011

An increasing number of people are relying on their portable media players to provide them their daily dose of entertainment. Whether you’re traveling to or from somewhere, the potential of prolonged hours wearing headphones deem it necessary that they must be equally comfortable and sonically excellent at the same time. And they have to look good as well.

Filed under Philip’s Ear Gear Style Range, the SHL5000 headband headphones certainly fit the category. Even while encased in its packaging, one will instantly realize that style was heavily invested into this product’s design. Available in five different colors, this reviewer received the crimson red adorned with black matte trim (also available in orange, green, white and black).

While these headphones are definitely candy for the eyes, they are not extravagant and still retain the charm of what is modernly minimal. The very simplicity of its design will surely garner notice, yet has the charm to seamlessly blend in as well, which could potentially cater to a lot of people’s tastes.

The headphones are very

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lightweight and extremely compact, especially once they are folded up for transport. Of course some sense of durability is sacrificed for the sake of portability, but the SHL5000s feels sturdy enough to withstand quite a bit of punishment, and could be a perfect companion for traveling both within the metro or the great outdoors.

If you’re looking for a pair of headphones that you can literally use the whole day, look no further.

The SHL5000’S padded ear cushions will feel like clouds upon your ears, as this reviewer was personally able to wear them for five consecutive hours without feeling any ear strain. The steel spring headband is flexible and will adjust comfortably to whoever is wearing them. Even

when they’re simply hanging around your neck, the headphones barely feel like they’re there. Philips certainly adhered to one of this product’s advertised traits: “You’ll forget you’re wearing them!”

The sound quality of the SHL5000 is satisfactory. It is not disappointing, but not spectacular either, which is to be expected from a pair of headphones in this price range.

For a product that was advertised as having extra bass, the 30mm sound drivers do not exactly give a bass rich experience, although they did boost the overall volume significantly. The lower frequencies sometimes sound quite boomy and with low-mids that have a tendency to sound sonically “tinny.” However, with respect to higher frequencies

of the spectrum, these headphones come out crisp, clear and have a character unlike similar products in its brand and class.

The SHL5000 also excels in its noisecanceling abilities, for even with an MP3 player at only half its volume limit, any outside interference was successfully blocked out.

Combine this with the headphones’ comfortable ear cushions, and you have a set of cans perfect for long hours of steady sound tripping.

All in all, the Philips SHL5000 would be a great purchase for those looking for a pair of headphones that look great, are kind to the wallet, but still pack a punch.

www.gadgetsmagazine.com.ph

NOTEBOOK

By John Nieves

SPECIFICATIONS: PROCESSOR: Intel Core i7-2630QM quad-core processor(2GHz ) RAM: 6GB of RAM STORAGE:640GB hard drive DISPLAY: 15.6 inch display (1366 x 768 pixels) GRAPHICS: nVidia GeForce GTX 460M graphics(1.5GB of GDDR5 memory) BATTERY: 8 Cell / 5200mAh OS: Win7 Home Premium 64Bit

June2011

ASUS ROG G53SW

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WHAT’S HOT: • Powerful hardware • Spacious drives • 3D Vision-capable WHAT’S NOT: • Heavy • Pricey • Battery life is almost non-existent BOTTOMLINE: It’s definitely not for everyone, but you can’t deny the impressive specs of the Asus ROG G53S. It’s the perfect notebook for gamers on the go.

BUY METER

8.7

/10

Let’s get this out of the way right now: the Asus ROG G53SW isn’t for everyone. It’s big, bulky and heavy to carry around. Its battery doesn’t last that long and has a love-it-or-hate-it design. But you know what? I just love the darn thing.

Its looks are definitely an acquired taste. The G53SW has this stealthish look to it, with angles and lines that would do the F117 proud.

The huge 15.6-inch 3D-capable display is a joy to play on—although unfortunately, this particular display can only accommodate resolutions of up to 1366x768. The keyboard is an illuminated deal that has just enough travel and is pretty comfortable to use. There’s a Bluray disc drive on the left along with two USB ports. The right side houses one regular USB 2.0 and a USB 3.0-capable port, along with an Ethernet plug, and ports for the power supply, HDMI and D-sub.

As I have mentioned earlier, the G53SW is heavy. It clocks in at about 3.78 kilos with the 8-cell battery, which pretty much means that it’s only ever comfortable being lugged around in short jaunts. Naturally all that powerful hardware is going

to consume a LOT of power—the G53SW can only manage a mere two hours of battery life and that’s with power saving on. The G3SW is also 3D Vision-ready, and comes with a pair of Nvidia 3D Vision glasses.

I can sum up performance in a single word: beastly. This thing has enough processing power to give lower tier gaming rigs a run for their money. My perennial multiplayer favorite Battlefield Bad Company 2 ran well on it with no problems on decent settings. Obviously you won’t be getting bleeding edge graphics with ridiculous resolutions (let’s be realistic here), but you will be getting a gaming experience that’s usually not possible with most other notebooks.

There’s also the added feature of being able to play 3D games on the G53SW via the included Nvidia 3D Vision glasses but to be honest, I really wasn’t thrilled with them.

Sure, playing Street Fighter IV in 3D is nice, but to be perfectly candid I never really liked the overall design of Nvidia’s 3D glasses, and setting them up before each gaming session feels like an unnecessary hassle.

Long story short: the Asus ROG G53SW isn’t for everyone. It’s aimed at a limited niche who want to bring their games with them, provided they don’t mind the back strain that comes with lugging around the Asus ROG G53SW.

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Like I said, the Asus ROG G53SW is built with a single target audience in mind: Gamers. Specifically, gamers who want to play their games while on the go. It’s big, brash and in-your-face because it has to be.

Underneath the stealth-like frame is enough processing power to make regular desktops blush. How’s an Intel Core i7-2630QM running at 2.GHz grab you? Not impressed?

Well maybe the dedicated Nvidia GeForce GTX 460M GPU, massive 8GB of memory and spacious 1TB HDD might change your mind. This machine is seriously a monster, in more ways than one.

tablets

App Deals on Your iPad

a portable personal computer

By Presy Alba

I love freebies. I’m always hooked by a sale or price-cut sign. So it’s not surprising that I have apps that help me get freebies or discounts from my iPad—and I’m always on the lookout for something new from the very prolific iPad apps developers.

Let me start with the apps that will help you find free apps for your iPad. The App Store is a great platform, literally a one-stop shop for apps. You can always type “Free” on the App store search box and get a full range of free apps available to download. Although it can be very overwhelming—if you do it this way, you might need a whole day to just browse through all the available apps that are available for free.

Also, from time to time, some of the paid apps are being offered for free for a limited period and unless you browse the app store daily, you might miss some of the good ones.

June2011

So if you don’t want to miss out on the next best deals on the app store, I recommend that you download the following apps—all for free from the app store:

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APPDEALS FOR IPAD This is a must-have tool for all iPad users because it allows you to view what paid apps are being offered for free or at a discount every day. And you can browse the list by category. The app has an option where you can select to see only iPad applications that are free to download or if you also want to check which ones are being offered at a discount.

FREE APP TRACKER This is one of the earlier app trackers that I downloaded from the app store—its name says it all—it www.gadgetsmagazine.com.ph

tracks the thousands of apps that are available on the web and informs you which of the apps that were paid have become free, or have become discounted. I still use this app because I have a choice of browsing through all the categories at the same time or filter the available apps by category or genre.

APPMINER This fine app allows you to receive push notifications for price drops. It also allows you to set a watch for price drops on particular apps you want to get but do not want to pay full price on. This puts you ahead of the line when developers make offer price drop or free download deals for a limited time.

FREEBIES In addition to the AppMiner, Bitrino Inc. recently released Freebies. With Freebies you get a daily dose of what apps have become free to download through a simple list.

APPSPROMO Developed by Appgeneration Software, the iPad App store describes it as an app that allows you to “check all promotions and sales in the app store for all countries and categories.”

By installing AppsPromo to

your iPad you will be first to know which apps have recently been made free for download, and you can share this information with your friends via Email or Facebook.

With so many freebies and discounts, you’ll be able to fill up your iPad with so many interesting applications without breaking the bank or maxing out your credit card.

tablets

portable personal computing

June2011 www.gadgetsmagazine.com.ph

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mobility

the hottest machines that take you places

In True Accord

Honda Cars Philippines, Inc. presents an experience of absolute refinement and sheer power with the latest model of Honda Accord.

June2011

Honda’s 2011 iteration of the premium sedan exudes commanding presence from any angle. Its aggressive form accentuated with deep character lines gives the Accord that combined sporty and sophisticated exterior. In enhancing its premium finish, the 2011 Accord comes with new front grille and bumper designs. Also, its rear now comes with chrome garnishing on the trunk. Both 2.4 -liter and 3.5-liter variants now come with front corner sensors in addition to rear sensors for easy parking.

Furthermore, the 2.4-liter model has a new 17-inch alloy wheel design that matches its dynamic styling.

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Enjoy expansive space inside the Accord. Boasting the biggest cabin space in its class, take pleasure of the Accord’s liberating interiors.

Plush leather seats fitted with only the finest choice of interior materials www.gadgetsmagazine.com.ph

provide comforting luxury for this big sedan. And to complement the demands of modern living, the 3.5-liter variant now comes with hands-free telephone connectivity via Bluetooth to handle calls safely and conveniently.

Still at the heart of the Accord is a powerful engine line-up that is capable of delivering commanding performance without sacrificing fuel economy. The 3.5-liter V6 engine delivers maximum power of 275 ps @ 6200 rpm. This variant comes equipped with Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) that closes down cylinders when not needed, to maximize fuel mileage and lessen harmful emissions. Meanwhile, the 2.4 liter variant continues with Honda’s much-celebrated i-VTEC engine technology and delivers maximum power output of 180 ps @ 6,500 rpm. As with the rest of

HCPI's product line-up, the Accord meets EURO-4 emission standards.

Always in control, the Honda Accord never fails to live up to the dynamic needs of the market. Its automatic transmission has a shift hold system that cleverly prevents unwanted changing of gears particularly on winding roads. And despite its massive size, the Accord is actually a pleasure to drive. Thanks to its variable gear ratio, the Accord delivers precise steering response during high speed driving wherein only small inputs are required.

When parking or wherein large input is needed, the ratio provides quick and easy steering.

One of Honda‘s primary thrusts includes a comprehensive methodology to vehicle safety.

For one’s peace of mind, the 2011 Honda Accord comes with

the advanced 6 airbags with an Occupant Position Detection System (3.5 liter variant), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) with EBD (Electronic Brake force Distribution) and VSA (Vehicle Stability Assist). The 2011 Honda Accord’s superior safety performance has earned a 5-star over-all vehicle score from the National Traffic Safety Association in the US. Designed to deliver an impressive driving experience beyond power, the Honda Accord comes in two variants with the following suggested retail prices: 2.4-liter AT for Php 1,700,000 and 3.5-liter V6 AT for Php 2,050,000. Available colors are: Brilliant White Pearl, Crystal Black, Polished Metal (exclusive to 2.4 li only), Bold Beige (exclusive to 2.4 li only) and Urban Titanium (new color option exclusive to 3.5 li only).

www.gadgetsmagazine.com.ph

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June2011

mobility

mobilit

DOTC kicks off Decade of Action for Road Safety On May 11, there was a simultaneous ringing of bells and blaring of car horns across the country which signaled the launch of Decade of Action for Road Safety in the Philippines.

The Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC), in collaboration with the Philippine Global Road Safety Partnership led by the Automobile Association Philippines (AAP), kicked off the rites at the Asian Development Bank in Pasig City.

Copies of the Philippine Road Safety Action Plan embodying the Philippine government’s initiatives to further enhance road safety were distributed during the launching ceremony.

Transportation Secretary Jose P. de Jesus said the plan would be meaningless without the road users’ cooperation. “This plan will not be worth the paper it is written on unless we make road safety a way of life,” he said.

For his part, DOTC Undersecretary for road transport, public communications and DOTC-action center chief Dante M. Velasco said “people who gamble with road safety are in a no-win situation and wager even their own lives.”

The United Nations General Assembly declared 2011-2020 as the Decade of Action for Road Safety “to stabilize and reduce the forecast level of road traffic fatalities around the world.”

June2011

The program was spearheaded by the World Health Organization and the United Nations Road Safety Collaboration to improve road safety measures worldwide, thereby reducing travel-related accidents which kill as many as 1.3 million people yearly around the world.

The fatality figure was expected to increase to 1.9 million by 2020.

Studies showed that road traffic injury is now the top cause of death for people aged 15 to 29 worldwide.

It was further projected to be the fifth leading cause of death for people of all ages by 2030.

In the Philippines, data from the Philippine National Police (PNP)

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shows that the number of road traffic accidents nationwide totaled 18,810 in 2010.

The PNP report revealed that human factor plays a key role in most traffic

accidents.

Driver’s error contributed the first three leading causes of road accidents last year, with bad overtaking totaling 3666 cases; overspeeding, 3149; and bad turning, 2839 cases.

Mechanical defect followed as the fourth leading cause of accident with 2,340 cases. Other contributors to road accidents due to human factor include, drunk driving, using cellular phone while driving and hit and run. Road conditions and overloading contributed to this “epidemic on wheels.” Experts believe that up to 5 million can be saved and 50 million serious injuries prevented during the Decade of Action for Road Safety.

Resolution 106, signified its support in this endeavor.

The UN Road Safety Collaboration is mapping out a global road safety plan for the

decade, covering all kinds of activities for road construction, operations, management, and maintenance; instilling stricter discipline among road users; enhancing the safety factors of vehicle; and upgrading emergency services.

A Road Safety Tag was also introduced as the global symbol for the 10-year campaign.

The yellow, diamond-shaped logo was expected to become a globally recognized icon. Wearing the Road Safety Tag is seen as an indication of personal commitment to observe road safety at all times.

The Philippine government fully supports the program with President Aquino, through Proclamation 159, declaring 2011 as the start of the Decade of Action for Road Safety, and enjoining the Filipino people to support and adhere to the 10-year implementation of road safety initiatives of the UN.

Road users are also encouraged to make a “road safety pledge” to promote safer roads and vehicles by not using the cellphone while driving; not drinking alcohol or taking drugs while driving, using seatbelts, maintaining the car in road-worthy condition, avoid being drawn into a road rage by aggressive drivers, not throwing garbage out of the car, and obeying road laws, rules and regulations.

The Senate, through Senate Resolution 415, has expressed its support to the Decade of Action for Road Safety 2011-2010. Similarly, the House of Representatives, in

“Let’s join hands in making our roads safer by pledging our support to the UN’s call for the Decade of Action for Road Safety 2011-2020,” said AAP president Gus Lagman.

Suzuki APV Type II:

All-Purpose Vastness

A common sight during summer is the continued flow of people and their vehicles going out of town. In most cases, people inside these vehicles are usually cramped—when you see them get out of the automobiles they are cranky and irritated. Why?—because their means of transport do not have spacious quarters.

This is where the Suzuki APV Type II lords it over.

Outside, the cabin may seem like an imposing block on wheels, but what the Suzuki APV offers inside justifies the exterior look. The seats allow six to seven average-sized Filipinos to be seated comfortably. The second row captain chairs in the SGX variant move forward or backward, and feature fabric reminiscent of a home sofa. If you want to relax further, one can make the second row backrests lie flat and perpendicular to the third row, thus turning them into two full-flat couches. Toss in an adjustable rear air-conditioning vent and wide side glass panels, and the Suzuki APV can elicit that sensation of riding in infinite vastness.

The third row seats have the same comfortable fabric seating and cushionlike approach as the second row, and can be folded or tumbled forward to handle all sorts of cargo. TThe front windshield is angled in such a way that your forward field of vision is similar to that of the vehicle’s wide side glass panels—meaning, you get a feeling of spaciousness. Occupants in the front row get their own controls air-conditioning and audio system. Lastly, the fellow behind the wheel gets to direct where and how the unit goes to a destination, thanks to a power-assisted steering, coil spring suspension for all four wheels, and a potent 91 hp/127 Nm 1.6L inline four engine.

With a body shape and an interior that evokes hugeness, it’s safe to say that the APV Type II in the Suzuki APV’s badging can be top-billed for all-purpose vastness.

NOTE: Accessories are dealer options.

“THE NEXT BEST THING”

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June2011

Chery is

www.gadgetsmagazine.com.ph

Chery Motors Philippines Inc. (CMPI) the exclusive Philippine distributor of China's largest independent automaker, recently relaunched the whole organization in an effort to re-energize its position as the premium Chinese automobile brand in the Philippines.

CMPI has already established sales

outlets in Baguio, Clark, Subic, Makati, Tagaytay and new 4S dealers in Zamboanga, Bacolod and Iloilo.

The company’s dealers in Cagayan de Oro, Cebu and Davao continue to be strong in their respective territories. In Metro Manila, a new dealership in Taft and in Balintawak are expected to be fully operational by the second quarter of the year.

A tie-up with the Rapidé Service Center group plus the recently inked service agreements totals CMPI’s service centers to 25, including the dealership service center and the Chery Technical Service and Training Center in Las Pinas.

“We are slowly but surely reenergizing the Chery brand in the company. We have taken inspiration from other non-famous automotive brands in the Philippines and the willingness of the Filipino car buyer to try new things. This is why we have come up with our new brand tagline and campaign in our company. We call this campaign ‘Chery: the next best thing,” Chang said.

To start this “Next Best Thing” concept, Chery Motors will launch a new small hatchback to compete

in the lucrative B-segment (subcompact) cars and a still undisclosed small light truck which will be equipped with a 1.0-liter diesel engine.

“In the Philippines we may begin to test market the cars,” Chang explained “but the timing will all depend on how the consumer accepts it, and more importantly, how the Philippine government will support such zero-emission vehicles in relation to the country’s Clean Air Act.

mobility

President and chief executive officer, Dr. Si-Chung Chang said the new company made major improvements in specific areas of operations focusing on parts inventory and distribution, service center expansion and customer management. “In the previous dispensation, we lost some important dealers which have had initial strong confidence in the brand. This year we are focusing on developing strong, independent dealerships and shifting our focus on the provincial markets where the opportunities are greater.”

mobilit

2Oth Trans Sport Show Stars in

Grand 3-Ring Motoring Event

Tradeshow International staged another first in the Philippine car show scene dubbed the Grand 3-Ring Motoring Event which features the 20th edition of the Trans Sport Show, the 1st Philippine Nostalgic Motor Show and the 4th Manila Sports Car Club Concours d’ Elegance sponsored by Phoenix Fuels Life last May 26 to 29 at the SMX Convention Center, Mall of Asia Complex.

June2011

A milestone event… 2011 marked the 20th edition of Trans Sport Show and is a cause for great celebration as it holds the record of being the longest-running car show in the country. From its inception in 1992 as a general automotive show, Trans Sport Show has successfully evolved into a leading brand, transcending its category as just a car show to becoming part of the Filipino car enthusiasts’ culture. It has become the car enthusiasts’ venue of choice for creative self-expression through their automobiles.

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“It is amazing to meet enthusiasts who have been attending the show since 1992 who now have children with the same interest and passion and have become Trans Sport Show patrons themselves. They collect www.gadgetsmagazine.com.ph

Trans Sport Show merchandise from brochures, posters to T-shirts and stickers. It is a big plus that we, the organizers are car enthusiasts ourselves” said Sophie delos Santos, TSI president. This year’s edition will showcase 13 of the past Best of Show and Reserve Best of Show winners.

The 1st Philippine Nostalgic Motor Show (PNMS) is a visual take on everything nostalgic in cars.

Tradeshow International, Inc. strongly supports the advocacy on preserving automobile heritage.

“At the 1st PNMS, we had over 50 vintage and classic automobiles and some motorcycles as well. And to create a truly nostalgic environment, we will also touch on Nostalgic Motorsports with a vintage race cars

display which features 11 collectible pieces like Ford Escorts, MGBs, Mini Cooper S, Alfa Romeo Giullietta, Porsche RSRs , Lancer Box Type and Opel Kadett,” delos Santos said.

A very special display of 12 collectible and some rare vintage racing vehicles was the highlight of the 4th Manila Sports Car Club Concours d’ Elegance. Old school car enthusiasts and historic racing aficionados enjoyed this exciting lineup from the ’60s, ’70s and ’80s, namely: 1960 Alfa Romeo Giullietta, 1965 and 1969 MGB, 1969 Morris Cooper S, 1971 and 1973 Porsche RSR, 1972, Ford Mexico,1973 Ford Escort, 1976 Opel Kadett, 1979 Alfa Romeo GTV and a 1984 Mitsubishi Lancer Turbo.

The Grand 3-Ring Motoring event is co-presented by Phoenix Fuels Life and is sponsored in part by The House of Precast, Solar Auto Club and 3M Philippines. Service providers include Meguiar’s, Dream Limo, Auto Transporter, Motorola and DC Audio Rhythmix.

Other sponsors are C!, Calibre, Top Gear and Power Wheels, 99.5RT, Crossover 105.1, Dream FM 106.7, DZRH 666, Magic 89.9, UR 105.9, DWIZ, 97 Home Radio, DZRJ 100, DZRJ 810, Inside Motoring, Turbo Time, BusinessMirror, Businessworld, Chinese Commercial News, Daily Tribune, Manila Bulletin, Manila Standard Today, Manila Times, Malaya Business Insight, Philippine Star, Padi’s Point and Lazer Maxx, Gotcha and Blade.

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June2011

mobility

mobilit

Isuzu Stages Exclusive Truck Attack Car shows get organized all the time, but it’s not every day we get to attend a truck show. Thanks to Isuzu Philippines Corp., entrepreneurs and regular motorists alike had a chance to witness the diesel expert stage “On the Right Truck to a Better Future,” an exclusive truck show that displayed Isuzu’s commercial vehicle lineup.

Isuzu put on the show to highlight the clear advantages that brandnew trucks have over second-hand units. This was the third such show organized by Isuzu. In 1999, the carmaker put together its first-ever truck show, called “Truck Attack.”

The second one was in 2004. This time, a total of 23 vehicles and two powertrain engines were exhibited— each one showcasing Isuzu’s ability to meet any transportation requirement of business entities and private individuals alike.

June2011

Among the vehicles displayed were three NHR vans powered by the proven 2.8-liter, Euro 2-compliant 4JB1-TC diesel engine: the NHR MB 80A, which can be configured as a 16-seater i-Van standard, 18-seater i-Van school bus or i-Van ambulance; the NHR FT 80A, a 21-passenger Flexi-Truck with dual air-conditioning; and the NHR 55, which is available as a refrigerated van, cargo van or passenger van.

There were trucks equipped with the 4.6-liter, Euro 2-compliant 4HG1-T diesel engine: the NKR 71, an aluminum van with tail lift; the NPR 71, a drop-side truck with crane; and the NQR 71, available as a cargo van, fire truck or mini bus.

And then there were those propelled by the 7.8-liter, Euro 2-compliant

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6HK1-TCN diesel engine: the FVR 34, which can be made into a cargo truck, fuel tanker, bottle carrier, dump truck, city bus or garbage compactor; the FSR 34, a fire/rescue truck with mobile clinic; and the GVR 34, which can function as a trailer, fuel tanker or bottle carrier.

The LT 132 bus, powered by the 7.1-liter, Euro 2-compliant 6HEI-TC diesel engine, was also on display.

Besides the trucks, Isuzu also showed off its more popular vehicles, including the Crosswind XL and Crosswind XL 5-seater, the D-Max LX 4x2 and 4x4 LT, and the Isuzu Passenger Van. Among the factors cited by Isuzu as advantages held by brand-new trucks over secondhand units are performance, maintenance, safety, resale value, easy financing, warranty, insurance, fuel consumption and clean emissions.

“This show is a reminder of why Isuzu trucks have been number one in the market for a long time,” said IPC President Ryoji Yamazaki.

“They’re reliable, durable, fuelefficient and inexpensive to operate and maintain. We at Isuzu are truly proud to be a partner of the Philippines in the march toward economic progress.”

apps

we got an app for that

Compiled by Edward Lemuel C. Castro

Snaptell

CompareMe

A camera and web connection is all you need to maximize Snaptell’s potential as a hassle-free and instant online product lookup. Just take a snapshot of any book, video game package or DVD, and it will automatically identify the product using image recognition software, while providing you with the appropriate prices and info at the same time. After identifying your item through its packaging or bar code, Snaptell will also pull out a list of related links to popular sites like Google, YouTube, eBay, IMDB, Wikipedia and more. Prices and shop locations are also indicated for efficient shopping.

CompareMe is an app for the price-conscious shopper. It lets you compare products in different sizes and even in different packs. This app will also help you save time by calculating the price of products and then comparing and converting an item’s cost with various package sizes, volumes and lengths. If you want to know the better deal between two products in terms of weight and value, then CompareMe will come in handy. Discounts and premiums are also calculated and displayed directly onto your smartphone.

Android/iOS4

iOS4

$1.99 on the App Store Free at Android Market Place; $1.99 on the App Store

Save Benjis + iOS4

This app can give you the best prices online while you shop at your nearby store. Save Benjis + can compare a variety of products across multiple vendors by searching for the product name, product number, manufacturer, author, actor, director, publisher and software platform. The app also has a bar code scanner—simply point the phone camera at the bar code and Save Benjis + will give a snappy list of prices from hundreds of internet stores where you can also purchase your item directly. $2.99 on the App Store

ShopSavvy Android/iOS4

June2011

Going shopping to US or Europe? Better download ShopSavvy first. One of the best bar code scanner apps available for smartphones, ShopSavvy can help you find the best online and local prices. Simply point and shoot a bar code from your phone’s camera using this app and it will give you an instant list of price comparisons of that same product from more than 20,000 retailers. The app has a rich database of different stores carrying various products, eliminating the need to go to each store just to compare prices. Once you've found the best price, you are then pointed to the location, contact details and website of a particular retailer. ShopSavvy also provides product reviews, rebates, weekend sales, wish lists and price alerts. Furthermore, sharing items with your friends is easy since the app is integrated with social networking sites.

Free on Android market place, $1.99 on the App Store

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gaming

where playing around is considered a good thing

BlackBerry AppAlert: Gaming Apps Have some fun with these games we have lined up that will interest all ages. Chase away the boredom and start setting those high scores now!

HANGMAN Ultimate Hangman for your BlackBerry. Your goal is to guess the correct word before you run out of chances and the Hangman gets you. Discover new words, develop your vocabulary and have lots of fun.

Download the app via the link below or use the QR code: http:// appworld.blackberry.com/webstore/ content/8423?lang=en

By John Nieves

Developer: Wargaming.net Publisher: Wargaming.net

June2011

There was a time when I was absolutely crazy about tanks. Who wouldn’t be—being able to command 30 tons of steel and weaponry, combined with the massive boom that comes with firing a tank’s main gun, is every pre-teen boy’s fantasy. Now there have been a few tank simulators in the past, and some first-person shooters have made tank levels on their titles, but there’s never been a true tank-based massively multiplayer game until World of Tanks arrived.

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World of Tanks (WoT) is a free-to play game that allows players to compete in a PvP setting with two groups of 15 players duking it out in a variety of maps, from close-quarter city battles to sprawling deserts and hills. There’s a variety of tanks available from three main factions—the Germans, Russians and Allies. There are also three classes to choose from—regular tanks, tank destroyers and self-propelled artillery. Regular tanks do most of the hard work, and depending on your tier (level), you can use light tanks (arty spotters and recon specialists), medium tanks or heavy tanks. Tank destroyers are direct fire and ambush specialists, able to penetrate armor from afar. Self-propelled arty rain indirect fire, though they can be used to shoot at other tanks directly if needed.

The game requires a delicate balance of different tanks to work, and teamwork to win. There’s a definite learning curve involved in playing the game and just like any other free-to-play online game, there’s a lot of grinding involved. You start www.gadgetsmagazine.com.ph

off with three light tanks from each faction which you can upgrade by researching new parts and eventually unlock new tanks from the tech tree.

Your tank is also manned by different crew members, depending on the tank. My Russian AT-1 TD needed a crew of three—a gunner, commander and a driver.

There’s a unique damage system in place in WoT. Each shot is computed depending on a bunch of factors—the overall damage capability of the gun, the ammo (regular anti-tank, high explosive anti-tank and premium rounds), the armor of the target and the angle of the tank being fired upon. This is where some of the tank classes differentiate themselves—a TD usually has high frontal armor and a powerful main gun but lacks the mobility to go toe to toe with regular tanks, etc. In addition, several tank modules can get damaged by shots from the tracks and engine getting hit, resulting in your tank being immobilized to your crew being injured and/or killed.

The game survives on microtransactions, and there are several benefits of buying gold in exchange for some real money.

Probably the biggest flaw in the game is its matchmaking system.

Since free accounts don’t have the ability to create parties, you’ll always be assigned to a team with strangers. This makes teamwork tricky, especially since the game is so focused on working together to win. Another annoying issue is that you’ll sometimes be pitted against other tanks that you won’t be able to damage with your gun.

Still, WoT has proved to be an enjoyable experience, especially when you opt to make your account a premium one. It does have some flaws, but the game is constantly evolving, and it’s definitely worth a download. You can download the 1.8GB installer from www. worldoftanks.com.

4-IN-A-ROW The object of 4-In-A-Row (similar to Connect Four) is to get four of the same colour chips in a row (horizontally, vertically, or diagonally) before the other player does. This game will let you challenge a friend or play different difficulties against the device.

Download the app via the link below or use the QR code: http:// appworld.blackberry.com/webstore/ content/486?lang=en

COPTER This game is a classic helicopter game. All you have to do is guide the helicopter through the cave and avoid the obstacles.

Download the app via the link below or use the QR code: http:// appworld.blackberry.com/webstore/ content/14276?lang=en

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March2011

gaming

websites Finding Deals

enter the internet

on the Web

By Presy Alba

I love bargain hunting. I always get a rush every time I find something special for less.

But bargain hunting is hard on the feet. Going to flea markets, discount malls and midnight sales is always an exhausting activity, and I’ve learned that when you’re dead on your feet, a P20-price difference is not worth backtracking 15 stalls in a crowded mall.

I still go to the flea markets and ukay-ukay because there’s no alternative to what they offer—but I don’t line up for midnight sales anymore unless I have previously identified the discounted items I want to buy.

Whenever I go to any CDR King store, I always get overwhelmed with the variety of items that are available for a lot less. Since the store is always packed with customers, it is a bit hard to see everything that they have in stock.

It was heaven-sent that I discovered that CDR King has a website that contains the full range of its product lines at www.cdrking.com.

department stores.

Going online not just to research but to shop can sometimes be daunting.

Paying for an item up front and relying on the honesty of the seller is always risky, but the offers online can be very tempting. So if you want a gentle plunge into shopping online, I recommend starting with www.ebay.ph. You don’t have to give out your credit card information as most transactions are cash based and the sellers will instruct you on how they want to be paid—whether you pay by GCash, SmartMoney, or deposit directly to bank accounts.

June2011

For authentic and branded stuff,

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I now browse the store website for stuff that look interesting, look into the product specifications, and note the price, then I make my shopping list before going to the store. The advantage for me is that I already have an idea how much I will end up spending for this visit, and I don’t have to waste time looking around.

All I need to do is tell the sales clerk what I want to check out—and if I am satisfied, then I add it to my purchases. What’s even better is that because of their website, I discovered a few items that I never would have thought to buy at CDR King—like a battery-operated heated eyelash curler for Php 120 and the lighted tweezers for about the same price. These are definitely a lot cheaper than what’s available in the health and beauty shops or in www.gadgetsmagazine.com.ph

www.ebay.ph is I think a safe way to shop online for shoes, bags and even gadgets—used or new. As with all peer-to-peer exchanges—a “buyer beware” policy is always a good mindset. What I usually do before I even bid on anything is check out the seller’s info and the positive feedback percentage to assure myself that I am dealing with a legitimate and responsible seller.

I even read some of the previous customers’ comments just to see if the seller is reliable—you should do the same.

www.sulit.com.ph and www.ayosdito.ph are also worth exploring for great bargains.

The only difference between these two sites and eBay are the auction styles that allow buyers to offer

bids for popular items. In the case of Sulit and Ayosdito, buyers send messages to the seller through private messages .

I can’t write about online shopping without talking about my favorite online store, www.amazon. com. Ordering books whether in print, kindle or audio format is very easy. I especially like buying Kindle editions and audiobooks because I get instant gratification as I receive the items immediately. For the printed materials, I usually have to wait about a month to 45 days before I get a notification from the post office that I have a package to pick up. In my experience, shopping online at Amazon is quite secure so worrying about hackers hijacking your credit card information should not be an issue.

Now that I’ve started discussing my favorite online shopping sites, I have to share with you the great deals that can be had at www. asiatravel.com. In my day job working for a nonprofit foundation, we’ve cut the hotel accommodation expenses in the past year by almost 30% because of Asia Travel. In the Manila area, booking a stay at the Bay View Park Hotel in front of the US Embassy costs 50% less than the local resident’s rate of P4500/ night. Hotels in Makati can go from between 20% to 40% off the hotel’s published rate—and it’s a hasslefree stay as all you need to do to check-in is present the prepaid hotel

voucher.

For hotels in the US and for exploring international flight options, nothing beats www.expedia.com. Even if you have a travel agent who takes care of your international bookings, it pays to do some research of the available flights to your destinations.

The travel agents do their best to find the best flights for clients but sometimes they just don’t have the luxury of time to explore the options —and they will just work within the parameters of your instructions - whether you want to take the cheapest available flights or the shortest flights possible. Especially for long multiple-destination trips, the Expedia website has the facility to combine flights and give you the best options—which you can then take to your travel agent—and see if they can get it for the same price.

As a final note, if you’re worried about using your credit card online for security reasons, you might want to contact your card company and ask about their online security measures. Some credit card companies will ask you to enroll your card to an online security service and give you an online shopping PIN and security code in addition to the 3-digit Card Identity Number located at the back of your credit card. Since the online shopping PIN and secure code is not printed anywhere in the card and is only known to you, this guarantees another layer of security.

websites

enter the internet

June2011 www.gadgetsmagazine.com.ph

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cover stor

e-Retail therapy

(the basics of online shopping safety)

By M.R. Gavin

June2011

Shopping can now be done with just one click of a button from booking flights to ordering food. Everything is now just a click away. But be careful where your cursor clicks because it could take you to a page that could hack into your account or even your computer.

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If you’re using a credit card, be sure that the seller is real. Credit card users can be safer if they ask their banks to notify them first before pushing through with a purchase. Banks now offer a service wherein purchases or cash advances can be monitored just in case any fraudulent activity gets to launder into your account.

Gadgets sat down with WAGW (What A Girl Wants) creative director and blogger Kryz Uy for her take on cyber crime. She herself has been a victim of identity theft. “A number of people have been scammed by someone pretending to be me and selling different things online,” she said.

The bogus seller introduced herself and her site as Kryz’ and tricked buyers into buying stuff that they eventually didn’t get and were swindled over Php 5,000 each.

But like all sellers, there are terms on how to order, pay and receive the products. Online shoppers should be able to read the policies of these sellers for easier transaction.

There are many ways to make sure that you are shopping in a legitimate site. Before filling up that order form, try to browse around to read testimonials, seller ratings and reviews.

To know whether a seller is legitimate, you can buy from a site where someone you know or trust has already purchased something. You can also check out the testimonials and reviews of other shoppers just to take a peek into what you’ll get into if you buy their products.

Tracking numbers are given to buyers so both parties can track if the courier is already on the way to deliver products, or even better, to know when the items will arrive on your doorstep. Tracking numbers can be checked online, so shoppers will know if the tracking number is real and not made up. eBay, Amazon and Facebook are all jumping into this bandwagon, as many online sellers switch to this platform to see their products or services. It’s a tag away and Facebook users can see the items on their own wall.

Junel2011

ellers actually just need basic information so make sure that you only supply the necessary ones such as name, shipping address and contact information. Buyers should also get much needed information from the sellers or the e-tailers, like their name, business address, contact details and bank account/PayPal number.

It wouldn’t hurt to ask around, contact previous buyers on your chosen site. Melai Entuna, F-stop owner and frequent online shopper, says there are many ways to get to know a seller. “Feedback is one of the best guarantees a prospect buyer can hold onto, it’s one of the greatest foundations of ‘trust’ in online shopping.” Usually, an established seller posts all the responses of its clients, whether it’s a Facebook post, a Tweet or even a screenshot of a chatbox. This makes new clients see how the whole transaction works out between the seller and the buyer.

“If it’s your first time buying, instead of having your order shipped, try the meet-up payment/cash on delivery method. “

Suggested Websites for gadgets Amazon.com for fashion Netaporter.com, gilt.com, ava.ph

http://archiveclothing.multiply.com

Tips from Melai Entuna (F-stop shop owner and Production Manager) 1. Research 2. Ask Around 3. Check: credibility - profile, feedback, how long has this site been in the business, payment methods, website design, hits/stats.

4. If it’s your first time buying, instead of having your order shipped, try the meet-up payment/ cash on delivery method.

Suggested Websites Archive Clothing http://archiveclothing. multiply.com.

Anagon Accessories http://anagon.tk Paradigm Shift http://paradigmshiftclothing. yolasite.com/ Website layouts / design services: http://alexify. multiply.com

http://anagon.tk

cover story

Tips from Kryz Uy (WAGW Creative Director and Blogger) 1. Buy from certified online retailers 2. Look for reviews about the seller before transactions 3. Check for suspicious details like blurred out watermarks or shady rules 4. Check posted tracking numbers to see if they are made up or legitimate 5. Never give out credit card information if you aren’t 100% sure that the transaction is legitimate

cover stor

There are many sites that look attractive to buy from but double check the layout because bogus sellers usually download free site designs and copy the original one to divert traffic. Legitimate sites have their own web designs that are originally produced for the brand. Communication is certainly the key; do not forget to correspond with the seller. Inquire about product specifications.

If a site is new, be sure to check their payment methods. Small and start-up shops should be able to do meet-ups. This way, buyers can be assured that they get what they ordered. Also, if a product is said to be shipped, a client should be provided with a tracking number or tracking code for them to know the courier and the status of the delivery.

There is also an option where buyers can just pay or deposit their payment when they receive their order.

Whether something is expensive or not, in bulk or by ones, it is better to be sure of your purchase.

Know the things you should do and not do so you will be saved from becoming a victim.

Remember: • Never ever give out information online.

• Be sure to go straight to the site, searching or surfing the net for a certain product may lead you to bogus sites. If you are looking for a certain item, check sites such as Amazon or eBay. • Do the initiative in payment, this way a buyer wouldn’t need to give out credit information.

Deposit payment to sellers account rather than having them charge the purchase to your credit card.

• When using a credit card, be sure to ask your bank to notify you before pushing through with any activity or purchase. This is a safe way to lock your account from unauthorized purchases and charges.

• Never ever give all your information online.

Buyers are not asked for resume-like forms. Basic information is the only ones needed, be sure to check the information you give out to avoid information phishing.

• Don’t be afraid to ask. This will ensure buyers that the seller knows what he/she is selling. Ask other buyers, previous buyers, other sellers and even friends.

• Keep a copy of the terms and payment schemes on paper or on your desktop. By this way, you will be able to check your copy when something goes wrong.

• Always remember to get all necessary information of the seller. Ask for the sellers name, business name, address, telephone number, mobile number and e-mail. You can even add them on Facebook. This will ensure you to have contact with the seller throughout the transaction.

• If shopping for an expensive thing, better buy at official sites or at the store itself. This ensures your money will be exchanged with what it’s worth.

June2011

• Lastly, remember to comment or leave a review to a seller’s site. You will be able to help new shoppers to see which sites are reliable and have good service.

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June2011

n o p u Co deals

www.gadgetsmagazine.com.ph

the realm on has arrived in A new phenomen feature es Group-buying sit of e-commerce. led of ai av be that can only online bargains that ns ea m ch hi ying,” w via “collective bu qu re ired ber of people are a minimum num ount. The sc e advertised di to benefit from th by both ed in is pre-determ quota of persons oting om pr is at th business the site and the

By Steven Vea the said service.

enefiting from these discounts is quite simple. Users simply need to sign up and register for free at the site, which instantly qualifies them to transact. Those interested in participating in collective buying will apply for what is fondly termed “groupons” (a portmanteau of “group” and “coupon”). These are basically vouchers which customers often print out themselves after payment, and consequently present at the establishment to avail of the promo.

As we all know, timing is an essential factor when it comes to bargains, so interested parties should expect a lot of competition. In order to help patrons keep up to date, some sites send newsletters via email, and others provide an option to subscribe via RSS feed. These promos

not just to get patrons to try their products and/ or services, but for the people to further advertise it via one of the simplest yet most effective tools ever—by word of mouth.

often have time constraints, with some only lasting for a day, while others are achieved until all vouchers have been purchased. Keeping up to date or visiting the site regularly is the key to grabbing these discounts, because not only are you competing with other customers, but you’re battling with a countdown timer as well.

The vast range of available discounts range from meals and vacations to specialized classes and gym subscriptions. The average rate of discount is usually between 30% and 60% off, but in some special instances, this can reach as high as 90% off.

Consumers are not the only ones that benefit from collective buying. Small and/or new businesses can use group-buying sites as a promotional tool,

So, if you’re interested in a having a little bit of adventure in your life while saving money at the same time, you should definitely avail of the discounts offered through collective-buying. Not only will you be kinder to your finances, but you will be enjoying these bargains with your friends and/or loved ones as well.

There are numerous sites that offer bargain deals, but here are the most popular ones in the Philippines to date (in no particular order).

Beeconomic

http://www.beeconomic.com/Philippines Originating in Singapore and a member of Groupon, this company has spread its cove to our very own islands. Offering deals ranging from 50% to 90% off, payment is achieved through Globe GCash and Bancnet. They also offer rewards in the form of Bee-Bucks for every successful user users make, and this “currency” can then be used for future purchases.

Ensogo

Cash Cash Pinoy

http://www.ensogo.com.ph/ Ensogo’s voucher system makes them unique, because the deal can still be availed of regardless of the number of people that have already purchased it. Their claim to offer the best deals is supported by a money-back guarantee, challenging customers to find a better bargain on the same item/service. A portion of profits made by the site is donated to charity.

http://www.buyanihan.com/ Buyanihan is quite unique because the site places more emphasis on the minimum number of people required to avail of the deal. If that “tipping point” or quota isn’t reached, then patrons’ cannot benefit from the discount which, in turn, encourages users to help make the promo viral.

“The vast range of available discounts range from meals and vacations to specialized classes and gym subscriptions. The average rate of discount is usually between 30% and 60% off” but in some special instances, this can reach as high as 90% off.”

feature

Buyanihan

http://www.cashcashpinoy.com/ Most deals on this website don’t require a minimum number of persons, except for their featured/special bargains, which can reach up to 90% off. Cash Cash Pinoy also boasts its site’s safety points, due to its partnership with Mozcom PayEasy, a premiere payment system in Southeast Asia.

featur

PayPal

By John Nieves

the (online) collector’s best friend

There’s a lot of good stuff that can be bought online. You can even hit upon those hard-to-find items like comic books, trading cards or general nerd-related memorabilia. Unfortunately, to be able to get into the great treasure trove of trinkets that we call eBay, you’ll need to get a PayPal account first.

June2011

In a nutshell, PayPal allows payments to be made to online vendors without revealing your credit/debit card number which adds a layer of security to online transactions and protects both parties from possible fraud. It also performs payment processing for online vendors and other commercial sites, which it then charges for a fee.

PayPal is a wholly owned subsidiary of eBay, so getting a PayPal account is pretty much a prerequisite before you can bid and post items on the site—for the US and UK versions of the site, at least.

Anyone can create a PayPal account which gives users limited functionality, which is a polite way of saying it’s pretty much useless until you enroll in PayPal’s Expanded Use program. Before getting this program, you’ll need to make sure that your debit card has at least $1.95 in the account, or if you’re using a credit card make sure your card isn’t maxed out yet. PayPal will charge your

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credit/debit card with that amount which will be debited back with your first PayPal transaction.

This is PayPal’s way of checking that the card that you linked is active and is your own.

Now that’s done, you’ll need to find the four-digit expanded use code that PayPal issued with the verification email. For credit card holders, you can check your next monthly statement for the code or your account history online for it. It’s pretty much the same for debit card holders.

After getting the necessary digits, you can now go to the My Account Overview section of your account and finish the enrollment process. After this, you’ll now be able to shop online using PayPal. There are just a few things to note when using this payment service. One is that buyers have 60-days of buyer protection, meaning that

you’ll be able to file complaints against sellers that have not fulfilled their end of the bargain, like not shipping the item after a set amount of time, etc. Another is that there are a large number of phishing efforts aimed at collecting users’ data either from email spam or other methods. Remember, PayPal will NEVER ask for your username and password through email. If you receive an email that asks for your username and password, or has a link that redirects you (supposedly) to the site, DO NOT CLICK ON IT. It’s a well known phishing tactic that sends you to a compromised webpage that will take your information and run away with it. If you do have issues with your PayPal account, it’s best that you do your login through the company’s official URL, and always check if the page is using HTTPS instead of HTTP in the beginning of the URL. HTTPS ensures you are on a secure connection.

By Benjamin Arnold

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June2011

The Real Gadget Deals

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When looking for deals in the Philippines, one of the first places that come to mind—both for locals and foreign visitors alike—would have to be Greenhills Shopping Center. Located in San Juan, Greenhills has been the country’s premier shopping, entertainment and dining destination since the 1960s. With numerous stores that sell a variety of products ranging from clothes to shoes; bags to hats; jewelry to watches; toys to gadgets, Greenhills shopping center is truly shopping heaven.

Over the past few years, Greenhills has renovated and upgraded its shopping areas—such as Shoppesville which now sports a cleaner and more sophisticated look. The Greenhills developer is also putting up a new building which, based on concept photos, has a more innovated modern feel to it.

The true highlight of Greenhills Shopping Center, however, would have to be the almost-permanent tiangge or flea market where stalls sell a variety of items at discounted prices. If you are lucky enough or have the skill to bargain, the items are a steal. You just have to know how to look and have the patience to go to each stall to compare prices.

If clothes are what you are looking for, Greenhills Shopping Center has different sections depending on what you are looking for. The Shops has a variety of local and foreign boutiques which sell clothes, bags and other merchandise at reasonable prices; the Theater Mall, which specializes more on the trendier style of fashion; and the main tiangge area where you get the

biggest deals, with added value—as a large quantity of the items sold are imported from either Bangkok or China.

For gadgets, Greenhills Shopping Center has the V-Mmall, where most of the electronics shops are located—plying a whole gamut of cameras to computers and everything in between. In Shoppesville, the third floor has a wing extension that contains a variety of stores that specialize in computer games and gaming consoles with some specialty toy stores scattered around. But for phones, the place to go is right above the tiangge. There, you can find stall after stall of dealers selling brand-new to second-hand phones.

But buyers beware. Buy at your own risk as some items here have reportedly been found to be either defective or outright fakes.

For cameras, Hidalgo Street in Quiapo is known for its great deals because the dealers deliver high-quality cameras for almost two-third of the original prices. But Hidalgo is not known only for cameras—you can also get good quality camera accessories, flashes and studio lights and other photographer essentials such as filters, reflectors and bags.

Though, there are not that many changes to Hidalgo Street over the years—Henry’s Photo Supply, Mayer Photo and Watson Photo Shop among others are still going strong—the gadgets have kept with the times. The latest models from known brands such as Canon, Nikon and Olympus can be easily found there. And if you find the right dealer, you could get an entire camera set with standard lenses and still have money in your wallet.

But shopping at the camera shops on Hidalgo doesn’t come without its risks—it’s just like gambling with the irreverent high risk but high reward factor to it. Try to get to know the store owners well as they like to take good care of regular clients.

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The best tip for people to get the biggest bang for your buck is to learn how to bargain. Start with 50% off the price they are asking for and work your way up to a reasonable price. Always keep your game face on, playing on the idea that you are not interested in the item that much. Most often than not, the dealer will do whatever they can to make a sale. To make sure you get the best deal of all, look around before settling for an item, because there is usually a place that would sell the item for less than others.

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AOC

takes on LCD market

By John Nieves

June2011

XIAMEN, China—AOC, a trusted name in the monitor industry, invited a select member of the press and its distributors from the Philippines to attend the annual Disty meet held last month in Xiamen, China. Aside from expressing its heartfelt thanks to the people who were instrumental in growing the business and the brand, AOC also took the opportunity to outline its re-organization plan for 2011, as well as outline its goals and marketing strategies with distributors from the Asia-Pacific, Middle East, Africa and CIS Central Asia.

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AOC worldwide president C.H. Tuan was present during the event where he outlined the performance of the monitor brand in the past fiscal year. While the global display market stagnated and some brands received negative growth, he was happy to report that AOC has exceeded expectations, and managed to grow 60% and was able to overtake its competitors in Asia. AOC has been officially ranked the No.1 LCD Monitor Brand in the Asia-Pacific region in the fourth quarter of 2010 by IDC. The event was also the venue for AOC to extend its gratitude to its distributors, including local distributor EA Global Supply Chain Solutions which was given a “Distinguished Contribution Award.”

Rey Zhou, general manager of AOC Asia-Pacific / Middle East / Africa, said: “It is a great pleasure to share with you that AOC was the most visible monitor brand in Asia at the end of last year.

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AOC Asia-Pacific region sales show a higher-thanaverage growth of 58% and gained 5% in market share. AOC has been the market leader [over the last] few years in the Philippines, achieving 34.2% market share in the last quarter of 2010.”

He adds that “to be ranked No. 1 validates AOC’s commitment to deliver superior products with the technologies and innovations that make a difference to our customers. After years of enthusiastic market strategy, AOC has won the Asia-Pacific support and trust of consumers. In India, China, New Zealand, Vietnam and Malaysia, AOC is firmly positioned in the top three brands. In 2011, AOC’s global program is expected to expand AOC sales to over 132 countries with a worldwide sales target of 15 million units of LCD monitors.”

AOC’s desire to innovate has resulted in products like the AOC i2340Ve, an IPS-panel (In plane switching) monitor released in 2010. IPS

technology is considered the best for higher accuracy in color, and consistent image quality across the screen from any position, including a 178-degree wide viewing angle. The response time of AOC’s IPS panel is fantastic, which makes it suitable for fast gaming. The AOC i2340Ve is an energy saver and environmentally friendly, is mercury-free, has an LED backlight and best of all consumers up to 50% less energy than a traditional CCFL model.

Aside from the Disty party, members of the press and the distributors from different countries were toured in the TPV factory, AOC’s parent company.

The tour highlighted the different production processes involved in creating an LCD TV, including creating the molds for the plastic bezels and components, assembly of the panels, and final quality control and testing.

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June2011

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A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood Summer may be over but love in the air is definitely a year-round weather forecast.

Actress Lauren Young and UAAP FEU player Jens Knuttel take a stroll around the neighborhood before ushering in the rainy season—bringing with them some of the latest and hottest gadgets to keep the gray and the gloom at bay.

ON LAUREN:

June2011

Green PUMA jacket Php 2,710 White colorful crop top from F&H Php 599 Lemon pants from Jellybean Php 899 Bangles from Jellybean Php 149 each Rings from Gold Dot Php 399 Slumberdoll Heels from Soule Phenomenon Php 4,000

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Photographed by Paul Ticzon Makeup and Hair by Mica Ramos, CAS-Makati Art Direction by Michelle Callanta-Toledo and Benjamin Arnold Styling by Chad Villarmino and M.R. Gavin Clothes by PUMA, Jellybean, and Folded & Hung Shoes by Soule Phenomenon Accessories by Gold Dot, Folded & Hung, Jellybean, and OS Special Thanks to Coach Bert Flores of FEU

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June2011

So let’s make the most of this beautiful day, Since we’re together, we might as well say, Would you be mine?

Could you be mine?

Won’t you be my neighbor? ― Mr. Roger’s Neighborhood

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photofeatur Samsung NX11 Lauren is keeping a close eye on Jens with the Samsung NX11.

June2011

The Samsung NX11 is a new mirrorless compact digital camera with viewfinder and interchangeable lenses which are intended to bridge the gap between a small compact and large DSLR. The NX11 is a modest upgrade of last year’s NX10, with a revised handgrip, new panoramic mode. It also has an i-Function button on the new 18-55mm kit lens which allows users to control the NX11 by scrolling through manual settings. The new NX11 camera has a 14.6 megapixel APS-C sized CMOS sensor, large 3-inch AMOLED LCD screen, built-in pop-up flash, and fast contrast auto-focus system.

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ON LAUREN:

Black tank Php 970 and black very-berry shorts Php 1,200 from PUMA Accessories from F & H Php 399 Pink sweetheart corset top from Jellybean Php 799 SweetCandyLove heels from Soule Phenomenon Php 4,550 Rings from Gold Dot Php 360

ON JENS:

F & H denim shorts Php 849 F & H stripes polo Php 279

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June2011

LG Optimus 2X Lauren stays in touch and keeps her friends in the loop with the LG Optimus 2X. Have the speed and power of a computer in the palm of your hand. The LG Optimus 2x is the world’s first dual-core smartphone powered by an Nvidia Tegra 2. The dual-core processor allows the phone to run at a clock speed of 1GHz, giving customers the browsing speed of a laptop or desktop computer.

Get maximum mobile performance without draining battery life. The LG Optimus 2x offers 1080p HD video playback and recording as well as a DLNA function for wireless sharing of content.

ON LAUREN:

Striped dress Php 749 and bangles Php 199 each from Jellybean Blue feathered necklace from F & H Php 349 Ring from Gold Dot Php 360

ON JENS:

Gray and white F & H long sleeves polo Php 599 F & H denim shorts Php 849

Finding out the latest updates is easier for Jens with the Lenovo B470.

This business-oriented notebook is preloaded with 64bit Windows 7 Home Premium or Professional operating system. It also has 3-megapixel web camera, a fingerprint reader and powered by a 2.1GHz Core i3-2310M or 2.3GHz Core i5-2410M processor

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Lenovo Notebook B470

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JENS KNUTTEL Once tagged as the new Mighty Mouse after Jimmy Alapag, FEU Team Captain Jens Knuttel is said to make waves in the basketball scene. Even though he’s on his last year with the team, he looks forward to becoming a PBA draft pick.

One of the best team players in FEU, this point guard values team effort and experience. He says he is already with a team of scorers so he doesn’t mind playing guard for the steals and passes.

He’s considered a good player not only because of his good basketball skills but because of his concern and leadership skills as well.

ON LAUREN:

Red Ferrari sports jacket Php 3,190 White shorts Php 649, pink tube swimsuit Php 999, Red bell Php 599 and bangles Php 199 each from Jellybean Rings from Gold Dot Php 399 Andre heels from Soule Phenomenon Php 4,550 Cartilage Necklace from OS Php 4,500

June2011

ON JENS:

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Gray and white F & H long sleeves polo Php 599 F & H denim shorts Php 849 Red Ferrari sweat jacket Php 3,190

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June2011

LAUREN YOUNG Dubbed “The Next Big Thing” alongside several of her other teenage contemporaries, Lauren Young is out to show why she’s exactly the person to look out for in 2011. Though some may simply know her as “Megan Young’s younger sister,” Lauren is definitely stepping out of that shadow, creating a name for herself as an ABS-CBN talent with shows such as Mula Sa Puso and Pepeng Kuryente—a name that will surely become bigger than the affiliation she holds

Philips SHL5000

Comfort is just as important as style. With that in mind, Philips introduces the SHL5000 headband headphones.

The ear pad is covered with soft leather which makes it comfortable to wear for long periods of time. The matte finish on the ear cups add to the overall look of the headphones. It also has a steel spring headband which also ensures a flexible and comfortable fit. With a 1.2m long cable, you can easily enjoy your music without worrying about how to position your player within range. It can also be folded flat, so you can easily carry and store your private music lounge while on the move. It is further equipped with noise isolation for pure music pleasure.

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Music to her ears… as he stands closely by hoping to have a listen.

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June2011

Aquamarine Dress from Jellybean Php 749 PUMA jacket Php 2,710 Rings from Gold Dot Php 399 Suleika heels from Soule Phenomenon Php 2,750

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ON JENS:

Jacquard polo from PUMA Php 1,930 White PUMA jacket Php 2,870 F & H blue checkered shorts Php 849

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lifestyleparade

simplify your lifestyle decisions

Back Pack Bags Converse

Converse’s new polycanvas-made back packs—that are not only convenient, but stylish too—will keep all your things neat and organized on your back. The sizes are perfect for those that commute around the Metro or embark on spontaneous road trips. With styles and colors that are perfect for anyone—from the guy who loves to hike to the girl that just love having a bag over her shoulder, the Converse back pack is the perfect companion for all of your exciting adventures.

Style# 928351 – Php 1,349.75 Style# 928451 – Php 1,349.75 Style# 928551 – Php 1,769.75 Style# 928651 – Php 1,669.75

Crypton Lifestyle Shoes Diadora

June2011

For the people that love style and comfort, Diadora has the shoe for you. With styles that vary between Nylon and suede leather to stone-washed canvas uppers these shoes boast style. Add in the cotton jersey and shock-absorbing E.V.A. foam insole and Shock-absorbing E.V.A. foam mid sole and you got a shoe designed to make your feet feel light and fit. They are also designed with high density rubber soles to give you perfect performance and durability.

Prices range from Php 2,395 to Php 2,495 www.gadgetsmagazine.com.ph

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lifestyleparad

Military Gym Collection United Colors of Benetton

Get that roughneck look while still being fashionable and stylish. United Colors of Benetton lets you mix and match polo chinos, shirts and bottoms to get that military look while keeping cool in the hot summer heat. Playing with the hues of moss green, deep-set browns and shabby grays, you can stylize your look to be casual and accessible while being tough enough to handle that harsh trendy world.

Glow Rush

VSRC Wedding Packages VMV Hypoallergenics

For those June Brides, why not treat yourself to a wonderful facial treatment fit for a bride. At VMV they offer a variety of Wedding Packages that are sure to make you look good and feel good before the big day. Get that perfect bridal glow with youthful tightened skin that renews and uplifts both your skin and spirit.

With services such as Glycolic Acid peels, re-firming sessions, plus a touch of Youth, The Whole Youth and Nothing But The Youth Facial, you are sure to be in perfect condition for the biggest kiss of your life.

Not to mention the VMV Hypoallergenics Super Skin Regimen and Armada PostProcedure 50+ you are sure to have everyone gawking at your beautiful face.

Packages range from Php 10,400 to Php 20,800

Billabong PX1

June2011

Boardshorts Billabong

In order to ride the waves, you have to be comfortable with your movements. Take Luke Landrigan—pro surfer and Billabong rider—for example. With the Billabong PX1 boardshorts, Luke can catch each wave and stay on top because of its latest in high-performance technology. Featuring 5-key features: ZG infinity stretch with zero gravity for 4-way stretch in all directions; three-times lighter material coming in at 140 grams (the lightest boardshorts in the world to date); H2 Repel technology to eliminate water absorption and friction; infinite seams, for maximum flexibility and comfort; and EFX performance holograms that increase balance and strength, and add extra flexibility. With seamless freedom and enhanced flexibility, “it’s like wearing nothing.”

Php 5,540

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Clothing Collection Coexist

June2011

Coexist, Coexist Haute & Coexist Prêt

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From the minds of Camille and Charlotte Co comes Coexist, a clothing line boasts honesty to the female form. Designed to be subtle yet noticeable, these classic yet modernly designed clothes were made to be striking yet never over the top. With three lines to choose from—namely Coexist, the primary line; Coexist Haute, the premier line composed of high-end designs; and Coexist Prêt, a line of imported stylish items—there is sure to be a fashionable choice for everyone, because people and fashion were born to coexist.

Coexist – Php 850 to Php 3,350 Coexist Haute – Php 2750 and up Coexist Prêt – Php 750 to Php 2,550

Compact, Dylan 15 Nylon, Eli Neoprene

Camera, Laptop and iPod Carrying Solutions Hellolulu

Who said function and style don’t go hand in hand? With caring solutions that make your life easier in terms of keeping your gadgets in check, Hellolulu brings fashion and function together into a beautiful mix. With bags designed to keep your electronic sensitive items safe from the elements, such as your camera, your laptop and even your iPad. Hellolulu bags do the thinking for you. By mixing in bold colors and user-friendly carrying solutions, Hellolulu gives you a bag that fits perfectly for your everyday needs, helping you keep your mind clear, while staying fashionably ready for anything.

Compact – Php 1,650 Dylan 15 Nylon – Php 3,000 Eli Neoprene – Php 1,490

Hava, Hanne, Holly, Hope and Hip

Spring/Summer 2011 Collection Kickers

Hava – Php 3,290 Hanne – Php 3,490 Holly – Php 3,490 Hope – Php 3,490 Hip – Php 2,790

lifestyleparade

For ladies that love classic styles, Kickers introduces its Spring/Summer 2011 collection of shoes that play on color, style and materials to entice any woman to dress us their feet.

With snakeskin leather as its main material, the Hava closed flats uses color to brighten up those boring office outfits. Hanne, on the other hand, takes on summer with sexy wedge heels and floral straps making these sandals exude the spirit of summer. For those women that are truly trendy, Kicker’s Holly and Hope shoes lets helps you bring out your fun, festive girly side.

To round out the collection, Hip lets the ladies play with a more casual tone and style for those no-fuss summer slip-on shoes.

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Makai Collection

Men & Women’s 2011 footwear Olukai

Get that island feel on your feet with the Olukai 2011 Makai Collection for Men and Women. With the collection name literally meaning “Toward the Ocean,” the Makai collection embodies the ocean lifestyle. With styles that resemble the sun, the surf and the sand you will feel the beach body experience when you wear a pair of Makai shoes. Made from premium refined materials and durable outsole construction, they provide perfect comfort, performance and style for the people that love to be in, near or inspired by the ocean.

Men’s – Php 2,790 to Php 5,990 Women’s – Php 2,790 to Php 5,490

Whirlwind Classic, Dallas & First Round Team Spill

June2011

Footwear Puma

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Putting the spotlight on the Athletes of Life, Puma shares the Whirlwind classic, Dallas and First Round Team Spill to the “AfterHour” Athletes. The Whirlwind Classic is a 80’s style runners shoe with drag pattern outersole and nylon/suede upper. The Dallas also taken from the 80’s, is an iconic football flat that features suede textured outsole with gold foil branding and leather detail.

The First Round Team Spill on the other hand takes its design archive from 1987 and was a hit with skateboarders. The updated silhouette and the jersey print splatter graphic that drips over the shoe while bright bold colors make the shoe a noticeable statement.

Whirlwind Classic – Php 3,430 Dallas – Php 3,670 First Round Team Spill – Php 4,550

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June2011

ZigTech & Easytone Apparel

Fitness Apparel Reebok

Following the footsteps of the ZigTech and Easytone Footwear, Reebok introduces the Zigtech and Easytone Apparel. ZigTech apparel is engineered with Celliant fibers, which have been clinically proven to enhance oxygen levels in the body which increases levels by an average of 7%. The Easytone apparel alternatively help tone muscles with its ResisTone bands that create resistance with every move.

These strategically placed bands help tone and strengthen the muscles while improving posture and body alignment. Not to mention both lines come in stylish designs and colors that make you feel good and look good.

ZigTech – Php 1,290 to Php 6,440 Easytone – Php 2,150 to Php 3,440

Basic, Alternative and Core 2011 Men’s Shoe Collection Energie

Basic – Php 3,495 Alternative – Php 2,890 to Php 4,000 Core – Php 2,890 to Php 4,000

lifestyleparade

Take on the urban jungle with classic style shoes.

Energie shoes let you express your strong and unique character with shoes that take their inspiration from busy streets. Vibrant, distinctive and full of vintage flair, Energie shoes lets you cut to the chase to bring forth your urban energy.

From simple styles that Incorporate retro appeal with modern detailing; to classic smooth leather with durable fabrics and even just plain and simple rubber out soles for extra comfort and flexibility, these shoes let you express your inner rock star persona. Energie shoes let you amp up your style to be a cut above the rest

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True

Beauty

By Michelle Callanta-Toledo

Noted fashion photographer and former model Nigel Barker, along with runway coach and model Miss J Alexander, recently gave the Filipino public fashion fundamentals and style essentials during their visit in April. Popularly known as judges on the reality TV show America’s Next Top Model, both guests are celebrated for their expertise in the fashion and beauty industry.

In Nigel Barker’s book entitled Beauty Equation, he shares the formula for revealing inner beauty and enhancing physical appearance. Going beyond the commercial standards of beauty, Nigel reveals that true beauty shines through a summation of good looks and positive character.

June2011

He shares, “My little boy about three years ago cycled up to me—he was three and a half years old, and he was about to do a show and tell at school—and he said to me, ‘Dada? Why do you take photographs? I want to talk about you at school.’ And I said, ‘Jack, I take pictures at work to try and create a beautiful picture of someone.’

And he said to me, ‘What’s beautiful?’ and I thought I had a simple easy answer, because obviously I talk about beauty on Top Model all the time, but actually it was a little deeper than I thought and I didn’t want to just blow him off, so I said, ‘Well, beautiful is your mother.’ And he looked at me and went, ‘Puff!’ and cycled off on his tricycle, but he got me thinking. And later that night, I thought to write down what are the things that I truly look for to create a beautiful picture?

What are those elements? It wasn’t like, in order to create a beautiful picture, the person needed to be a model. It wasn’t that they needed to be 5-foot-10 or that they needed to be a size 4. What they did need to have though, was a passion; an energy—what we sometimes call a je ne sais quoi. It’s that certain something—that magic— which is truly confidence, compassion, humility.

It’s having a sense of humor. It’s the same reason why we fall in love with someone. It’s the same reason why we pick our friends. It’s exactly the reason that makes someone’s photograph come alive. It isn’t because of their beautiful façade; it’s because they have a beautiful inside. So that’s what the books about—about how to harness that and change you from the inside out.”

Another famed personality on America’s Next Top Model, J Alexander shares his expertise on fashion and beauty from his experience as a world renowned runway coach. Recognized for his coaching abilities, he has worked with major designer brands and modeling agencies some of which include Elite, IMG, Next, Ford, Women, and

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Fashion photographer Nigel Barker

Marilyn Gautier.

Miss J currently trains their models to walk in designer runway shows for Valentino, Galliano, Bill Blass, Alexander McQueen, Chanel, Nina Ricci, Christian La Croix, Balmain, Baby Phat, and Zac Posen, to name a few. His published work Follow the Model: Miss J’s Guide to Unleashing Presence, Poise, and Power aims to bring out your “inner” model.

“It’s just about being yourself,” Miss J explains. “I mean, part of my book is just about my journey— from the South Bronx to Paris and everything in-between. And it’s just be who you are; do what you do; and be the best at it—in a very simple format. I think we are so stuck in fashion on the first visual, but it’s slightly deeper than the first visual. It’s a lot inside that helps us shine.”

But don’t be fooled nor intimidated by these two authors. If there’s one thing Beauty Equation and Follow the Model firmly assert, it’s that these books are not just for models. With Beauty Equation, Nigel explains, “It can be for models. If you want to be the best that you can be, truly this is a book that helps bring it all out. But ultimately, it’s not just for models. There are a lot of people out there—mothers, daughters—who have really gotten into the book. It’s really brought up selfesteem. It has all the psychological angles to it, and we sort of use photography as a sort of photo therapy throughout the book to help you see yourself in a better light, because truly, to be a fashion model is one thing—but that’s not possible for everybody—but to be a role model, is something that we can all aspire to be, and

Project Runway coach and judge Miss J. Alexander

something that truly tips the balance in life, and you yourself can walk your life with your head held higher and feel truly beautiful about the life you are leading. And nothing can be more important than that.”

Miss J adds, “Sometimes it is all in the DNA as I always say. Though I agree that talent is everything because some people are experts at something and some people aren’t. Would I say that I am an expert? No. But I am good at what I do. And when you walk into a room, you have to command attention. I am 6-foot-4. If I put on 6-inch heels, I would probably be 7-feet. A woman who is 5-foot-2 can walk out on a runway and give the illusion that she is 6-feet. It’s just the confidence. If she feels good about what she is wearing. It starts at home. It really starts at home.”

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Want to stay up-to-date on the latest Tech and Lifestyle News?

June2011

TM

The revitalized www.gadgetsmagazine.com.ph, along with our Facebook, Twitter and YouTube pages, features the latest, most up-to-date tech lifestyle news and daily updates. Read about the latest products straight from the box and the hottest events and news INSTANTANEOUSLY. Interactive online copies of current issues—which you can read from cover to cover—are available at our website—absolutely FREE.

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beauty secrets revealed

The VMV Treatment

By Benjamin Arnold and Michelle Callanta-Toledo

Since 1979, VMV Hypoallergenics has been a leader in skin safe products and services that are widely used around the world not just by those who have sensitive skin, but also by those who love their skin.

June2011

This Filipino brand has based its company on well documented clinical studies, from skin patch testing to clinical tests, both in laboratories or by volunteers, giving the brand the science to back up their claims. All the products developed by VMV Hypoallergenics were made with a deep understanding for the skin’s surface down to its microscopic structure, making it the best choice for healthy skin.

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At VMV Hypoallergenics Skin Research Center (VSRC), they provide simple skin friendly services and products, one of which is the diamond peel treatment. With prices that vary from Php 1,000 (if done by a nurse) to Php 1,500 (if performed www.gadgetsmagazine.com.ph

by a doctor) with an additional charge for the neck area, the procedure is a worthwhile expense for a monthly treatment. They also take into account the individual need of each client, creating customized treatment plans helping them get more for their money.

A diamond peel is a non-surgical microdermabrasion procedure that exfoliates the skin. This is done with the use of a coarse diamond-tipped wand attached to a vacuum. The skin is lightly scrubbed with the wand, removing dead skin cells and revealing a healthier, smoother skin.

This also restores the epidermal cell structure of the skin, increasing elasticity and collagen levels.

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Benjamin Says:

The actual treatment began when I laid down in the “operation” chair.

The nurse first prepped my skin with Hydra Balance Gentle Cleanser— which was quite cold. After washing off the facial wash with wet cotton buds, she began the diamond peel treatment—using a medium coarse tipped wand—starting with my forehead, working down my nose and slowly to my cheeks and chin.

After about 20-minutes—wherein the wand was changed halfway to a slightly finer grade tip—my treatment was complete.

Upon looking into a mirror, I could see that my face was slightly pink, more so around my nostril

area than the rest of my skin, but my skin looked completely clean and the little dark marks around my face were gone. The nurse informed me that the redness should subside after a couple of minutes to around an hour after the treatment, depending on my skin. She then proceeded to apply Hydra Balance Smart Moisturiser and Armada Post Procedure Barrier Cream on to my face to help protect my newly sensitive skin. Before we left, the nurse re-informed me of the after-treatment effects as well as how to maintain my skin—such as to use mild facial washes; to avoid facial products that have alcohol in them and to always apply sun block before going out into the sun.

June2011

I have never had a facial peel before. Being the naive guy that I am, I initially thought a diamond peel was where they take one of those facial masks that have a gel-like consistency, spread it on to ones face, leave to dry and then peel off—with the addition of very tiny diamonds mixed into the facial mask. Apparently, that isn’t how it works at all.

About an hour or two after the treatment, Michelle noticed that my face seemed brighter than before.

She said I had a certain glow. I looked at her skin and had the same reaction. Amazing enough, the effects of the treatment were instantly visible. And best of all, there was no pain during or after treatment.

Michelle Says: This would’ve been my second diamond peel to date. And this time, VMV Hypoallergenics did a rather clean and thorough job. A therapist conducted the 20-minute procedure as I lay comfortably on a medical bed in a private room.

My colleague even noticed that our faces caught the light better after taking a photo. You may feel a

slight sting and a slightly increased sensitivity after the procedure so it’s best to keep the face clean with mild soap and protected with sunblock from the sun. For even better results, the nurse suggested a monthly diamond-peel with facial would be in order. And personally, I think I may just make this a monthly habit.

Special thanks to Pamela Garcia, SPMI Marketing Coordinator of the VMV Group and Jacqueline Tierra, manager of VSRC

beautylab

First, my face was cleansed with damp cotton and dried. Then the diamond-peel apparatus was used to glide across the face and pulled to release the skin from the suction.

This can also be done down to the neck (at a higher price). Once the peel is done, moisturizer is applied to keep the skin soft and protected.

Now you may notice some redness (though surprisingly, for someone with skin as sensitive as mine, I’d have expected to look swollen), but it hardly seems like a sacrifice compared to the instantly luminous results. You immediately notice fresher, cleaner-looking skin.

listen

hit the right notes with the latest sound tech

GarageBand The Apple of our iPad

By Steven Vea

There’s only one question you have to ask yourself if you’re contemplating about downloading GarageBand for your iPad, and that is: why not?

If you’re not reeled in by the ridiculously low price alone, consider the multitude of features and potential uses the app possesses, which can clearly outclass any other music-oriented app in the market today.

For those who aren’t too familiar with the program, GarageBand has been around for quite some time now and has been included in the iLife suite of Mac desktops and notebooks alike. It began as a simple and user friendly tool for people to digitally record and compose their own music, but has slowly evolved into a serious music production program over the years, finding

June2011

“The GarageBand app should not be considered a serious music production and recording tool, but instead should be seen as an entertaining novelty and useful tool to add to your ever growing list of downloaded applications.”

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a following among both enthusiastic hobbyists and professional musicians.

The highlighting quality of the GarageBand app, aside from the gorgeous graphics, is that you don’t need any previous experience or in-depth musical knowledge to get started. This makes the app very versatile and entertaining with regards to the vast audience it can cater to, because whether it concerns navigation or workflow, users will probably never even need to consult the help menu.

Furthermore, what makes the app different from its desktop counterpart is the excellent utilization of the iPad’s multitouch interface, which essentially

transforms the tablet into an independent instrument in itself.

Users can choose from a variety of preset guitars, basses, keyboards and a drum kit which can be played by strumming or tapping the appropriate parts of the instrument.

These bundled “Touch” instruments are also “Smart” instruments because users can compose songs without any advanced knowledge of music’s mathematical and multifarious rules.

For example, the app features a “scales filter,” which as the name implies, only makes the necessary notes available for playing according to the appropriate musical scale.

Therefore, this allows even children to create musically “correct” compositions and even jam with other musicians without having to worry about any out of tune notes.

GarageBand also provides an option to play predefined chords that are most commonly used, which is again useful for those without any musical background. This is also helpful in creating quick sound clips or song drafts, but the lack of options for users to manually define these chords might steer away the more seasoned musician.

The GarageBand app also provides several virtual amplifiers so that users can plug in a guitar to the iPad and modulate the tone in real time.

While the sound shaping options are indeed limited, this feature is still quite handy and entertaining, especially when considering the low price of the app itself. Moreover, since GarageBand can be integrated with its desktop counterpart, the possibilities become virtually limitless.

Lastly, by installing this app into your iPad, you now carry with you a portable recording device capable of working with up to eight simultaneous individual tracks. This feature will obviously cater more toward musicians, as it provides them a lightweight recorder that is able to capture their ideas when inspiration strikes in the most unlikely of places. However, this can also serve as a springboard and educational tool for beginners wanting to experiment with recording their own songs.

All in all, no app in the brief yet tumultuous history of apps has ever felt like it was tailor made for the iPad more than GarageBand.

And while no program will ever be perfect, this one certainly comes close to what any user would desire, whether they are musically inclined or just free-spirited hobbyists.

The GarageBand app should not be considered a serious music production and recording tool, but instead should be seen as an entertaining novelty and useful tool to add to your ever growing list of downloaded applications.

Hobbyists and enthusiasts will flock more toward this program for it provides an extremely engaging way to create music minus the technical frustration. However, serious musicians might be surprised at how it can turn their iPad into a convenient sonic scratchpad and alternative musical instrument.

In essence, GarageBand definitely raises the bar on what can be accomplished on the iPad at a price that will make you wonder why you haven’t downloaded it yet.

www.gadgetsmagazine.com.ph

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June2011

My Heart’s Journey “I look behind and now searching ahead and I feel this is where I should be. I’m no longer there―that lonely place. I’m finally here and almost happy. I’ve lived life, made my choices. Experiences? Yes. Regrets? No. After all, I’m still standing. Bitterness―that’s just for losers. Things happen. Pain surfaces. But how we react, that’s a choice that remains personal. It’s how we take things and how much we’ve learned. That’s when the test is final. The people I lost, the battles I’ve won, the scars and the glory―everything else in between. For now, I’m really okay because there’s still so much in store for me and I want to invite all of you to join me. Let’s take that journey together.

Let’s learn, let’s laugh, let’s live, let’s love.”—Kris Aquino

Kris celebrates the healing power of letting go and moving on in “My Journey: The Road Of Forgiveness” as Jed Madela performs Healing, while his rendition of Beautiful In My Eyes sums up the great possibility of Kris to fall in love and accept romance in life once again in “My Journey: The Road Of Redemption”. Christian Bautista performs a bonus track dedicated by Goldilocks to Kris for her birthday entitled Araw Mo.

The presidential sister takes you down the many roads of her life in her latest album under Universal Records, aptly named “My Heart’s Journey.” It is a spoken-word, special collector’s edition CD that features 15 tracks chronicling seven inspiring phases of Kris’s prodigious journey in her colorful life, with love in all of its many forms as its unifying element.

She begins with “My Journey: The Broken Road” which documents the paradoxical nature of her life, characterized by trials and triumphs which essentially fuel her immense love for life. Here, Toni Gonzaga performs God Bless the Broken Road while KC Concepcion delivers a soulful rendition of What About Love.

“My Journey: The Road to God” expresses Kris’s spiritual, almost transcendental, journey as she completely surrenders her life to the infinite love of God. Here, Kris Gail Blanco performs I Will Be Here and In Your Eyes while the inimitable tandem of Regine Velasquez and Lani Misalucha shines in their rendition of When You Believe.

Kris demystifies the misconceived notion that she has everything anyone could ever dear of by baring her deepest hopes and aspirations. “My Journey: The Road Of Expectations” clearly process that first and foremost, Kris is human, and a woman whose sincerest desire is to be loved, valued and respected for who she is and nothing else. Zsa Zsa Padilla gives a divinely soothing rendition of I’d Really Love to See You Tonight.

Kris’s emotional maturity and wisdom which is the fulfilling result of many years of heartbreak and headache is communicated in “My Journey: The Road Of Understanding” as Nina belts out I Want To Know What Love Is.

“The people I lost, the battles I’ve won, the scars and the glory― everything else in between. For now, I’m really okay because there’s still so much in store for me and I want to invite all of you to join me.”

featuredartist

In “My Journey: The Road of Love”, Kris opens her heart as she narrates the strong interconnection between love ballads and her romantic experiences in the past six years. She valiantly attempts to uncover the mysteries of falling in and out of love. In the process, she emerges victorious by accepting both the pains and joys of falling in love.

Christian Bautista gives a masculine twist to Love Moves in Mysterious Ways while Jed Madela dishes out a chilling inspiration of Only Love and To Where You Are. Karylle re-interpretes and breathes life to the classic It Must Have Been Love.

cdreview

get our take on the latest tracks to hit the market TRICKY

MIXED RACE Universal

By Paolo Toledo Beat heads and trip-hop aficionados are well familiar with Tricky. The former member of Massive Attack, and one of trip-hop’s pioneers has well-defined a sound during the ’90s that earned the acclaim of his fans, while also carving out an identity for the English musician and producer.

His debut album “Maxinquaye” (1994) became an immediate classic were the artist launched his trademark brand of UK hip-hop, blessed with a masterful fusion of

chocolate cake. The simplicity of these things make them loved by many. Gail Blanco takes on the simpler side of love in her album “Sweet Love: 16 EasyListening Favorites” giving classic love tunes her own little touch of beauty.

Sweet Love: 16 EasyListening Favorites Gail Blanco Universal Records

By Benjamin Arnold Classics are always simple beauties—a black dress; a pair of Chuck Taylors; a black and white movie and even a

With tracks like Initial Thrill, It’s You, Fallen and In My Life, Gail Blanco plays off a softer feel to songs popularized by industry favorites like Peter Vale, Mike Leeson, Stevie Wonder, Lauren Wood and Patti Austin. With musical arrangements done by Ito Rapadas, Bobby Velasco and Fred Garcia, “Sweet Love” takes easy listening to a whole new level by incorporating a smooth flow to each love song that makes you want to close your eyes and just listen to the emotions behind each tune.

My personal favorite of the album has to be Here Comes the Sun—originally

So much so that it seems that each one has to claw and fight hard while creating a distinct image (and sound) in the process. There are the soulful divas like Rihanna and Beyoncé, avantgarde symbols like Lady Gaga, and even bubblegum kittens like Katy Perry and, her drunk version, Ke$ha.

June2011

JESSIE J

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WHO YOU ARE MCA Music Inc.

By Paolo Toledo It comes to no surprise that there exists a surplus of female pop artists dominating the mainstream airwaves.

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And then there’s Jessie J. The latest spawn of English pop culture, a twisted resurrection of Lily Allen, and a girl whose identity seems as lost as her music. The aesthetic package is undoubtedly a rehash of Gaga, Perry and maybe touches of Winehouse, and her sound finds itself gasping for air in between hints of all the aforementioned femmes.

In all fairness, her debut album, “Who You Are,” is a pop kid’s wet dream. The

various genres from dub, soul, jazz, and elements of Brit-rock.

However, Tricky fell out of ears with his later releases. The dark, melancholic sound he made so poignant was lost in an experimentation of progressive rock, pop dance, and house. With his latest album, fans may be quite happy to know that he is finally recognizing the merit of “sticking to what he knows best” and reverting to the subtle and sinister shades of Maxinquaye.

Mixed Race, as the title might suggests, is a melting pot of sounds and genres. With the whole album clocking in at just over half an hour, one might say that this is a mixtape-

of-sorts where Tricky is back out to test the waters with every track, trying to catch the magic he has long lost. Overall, the album is one erratic listening experience that catches you floating to jazzy, soulful collaborations on one end, and suddenly jolting you with ill-placed stabs of dance music.

But the essence of Tricky’s low-key trip-hop can be heard, and is more prevalent this time around.

Bright spots on the album include the opener, Every Day that features a nice blues touch that complements his signature sound, the gloomy Ghetto Stars where he flexes his hiphop muscles and breaks out a ’90s gangsta-rap groove, and the eerie jazz trumpet-sampled Early Bird.

performed by George Harrison—as it actually got me humming to the tune.

The arrangement by Ito Rapadas makes it flow beautifully while the guitars

by Janno Queyqueo and the piano performed by Fred Garcia give it that special kick.

The most attractive part of the album would have to be the uncomplicated mix of guitars and pianos with a hint of a saxophone and percussions on a few tracks that give it that easy-listening jazz flow, making it truly exquisite.

Take into account Gail Blanco’s supple and silky vocal range on the tracks and you have an album that can be heard in any decade and still be loved may many. Overall, Gail Blanco’s “Sweet Love” album is a collection of classic love songs with a sweet twist of simple vocal and musical beauty.

whole thing screams of the mainstream formula with a mix of distraught ballads and upbeat party anthems. Casualty Of Love and Big White Room are odes to sirens like Rihanna or Alicia Keys with its soul and piercing melody, while Do It Like A Dude is a foray into dancehall, minus any tropical authenticity. Who’s Laughing Now is a given for any “edgy, misunderstood” pop artist, although it seems shallow and wanting for connection. Of course, the UK No. 1 Price Tag is a proven hit, using Jessie J’s closest Nelly Furtado-impersonation.

Unfortunately, “Who You Are” is an album that fails to live up to its title.

As much as Jessie J may be talented as a singer and songwriter, there is just too much of a messy mix of songs and styles that the listener ends up wondering who she really is.

Kris Aquino: My Heart’s Journey Various Artists Universal Records

By Benjamin Arnold Quite often when reviewing albums, I would mention a few special songs that tell a story. I rate these songs high because their music and lyrics create a visual imagery for people to imagine when listening to the tracks—much like Disney’s Fantasia.

Kris Aquino’s My Heart’s Journey is a 22-track album filled with songs sung by some of the Philippines best musical talents—including Toni Gonzaga, KC Concepcion, Christian Bautista, Jed Madela, Karylle, Gail Blanco, Regine Velasquez, Lani Misalucha, Zsa Zsa Padilla and Nina. Each one of these singers lent their voices to tell the story of Kris Aquino.

In essence, the album is split into seven journeys—namely “The Broken Road,” “The Road of Love,”,“The Road to God,” “The Road of Expectations,” “The Road of Understanding,” “The Road of Forgiveness” and “The Road of Redemption”—each one was highlighted by a monologue by Kris Aquino herself describing her different trials and experiences.

Over all, the compiled songs give the listener a look into the emotions of this media personality’s life—portraying her journey through lyrics and music. A true musical biography filled with timeless classics for everyone to enjoy.

www.gadgetsmagazine.com.ph

June2011

It’s all about directions

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By Princesse Lim-Fernandez

Contrary to popular belief, feng shui is not about signs or the year of birth but the study of the environment/ surroundings and the art of placement.

Signs herald one’s personal luck and if there are things bound your way, we cannot change them for they are determined according to the dates of birth.

Every year flying stars change their order which then determines which directions are lucky and unlucky. The resulting feng shui chart shows all the directions and the stars situated on each. Every direction also has its cure and luck items, to enhance good luck or ease any bad luck.

If there is an area that will affect us all this year, it is the center. This year the Robbery Star is located at the center and this is why everyone is warned to be mindful of losing money.

On a lighter note, the promotion and academic star is located on the southwest which provides people to do well in their perspective activities.

You can realize the full potential of luck by checking the direction of your main door, bedroom, bedroom door and headboard.

To enhance luck in the southwest area, place a promotion fish luck item. This will enhance luck in your job and for students they will be having good luck academically. The promotion fish luck item is paired with a small glass filled with water. This assures that it feeds on to good luck.

The center will be a bad luck for most people so to relieve this effect, place a hippo guard which will ease the effect of the Robbery Star. This does not always pertain to being robbed but generally losing money, whether in an investment or inappropriate spending. That’s why people should be mindful of where they spend their money as they might not prosper or they might eventually lose their hard-earned cash.

One reminder though, when placing a luck item, make sure that the area is clean, well-lit and clutter free in order to reach its full potential.

The center will be a bad luck for most people so to ease this effect place a hippo guard which will ease the effect of the Robbery Star.

Yin and Yang

“The promotion fish luck item is paired with a small glass filled with water. This assures that it feeds on to good luck.”

event

ENERGIE: A Cut Above The Rest

Amp up your style. Be a trendsetter and not a slave to the trends. Walk the city streets and feel the pulse of life.

It is noisy. It is confusing. It is vibrant. Within the urban jungle, the energy is buzzing. It is alive. Admit it, you are the urban warrior and there’s no other place you’d rather be.

As a brand established with an eye on creating something new and original, Energie takes its inspiration from that which creates an awesome new perspective.

The brand traces its origin from the first clothing store of the same name that opened in Rome, Italy, a meeting point of many artists in the ’80s who came together to work and create installations and special exclusive window displays.

Launched in 1989, the brand has taken quite a solid personality—a strong and individualistic character that combines vintage elements with recognizable urban details and a variety of artistic inspirations. Since then, the brand has never wavered on testing and experimentations, doing research and pushing for innovation, and all this has given rise to various collections—from shoes and bags, to beach wear and even underwear.

June2011

But modern-day urban buyers are in for a treat. This year, Manila is finally

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introduced to Energie. A pulsating brand of personal statements, Manila’s fashion elite will be treated to Energie’s newest collection of men’s shoes that are finally made available locally.

Bursting with a strong urban style, Energie cuts to the chase and baptizes the trendsetters by giving them a vintage look that brings to the surface the wearer’s rock star persona. Looking to the streets for inspiration, the club kids and trend-watchers alike can finally amp up their casual chic look with this ultimate show stopper—this unbelievably hot line of men’s shoes that would be the soul of the trendiest men’s look this season.

Energie Footwear collection is available in selected SM Department Stores, Urban Athletics Greenbelt , Complex Store Eastwood Mall and Ayala Center Cebu.

www.gadgetsmagazine.com.ph

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June2011

Samsung Notebook Series 9:

In Perspective Following the success of its grand fashionable launch, Samsung Electronics Philippines Corp. signed up three home design experts to interpret the sexy characteristics of the Samsung Notebook Series 9, the thinnest, lightest and brightest notebook by the South Korean electronics giant.

Samsung’s IN PERSPECTIVE was truly inspired as three of the country’s top home and lifestyle magazines recreated the Samsung Notebook Series 9 features into a one-of-akind home design exhibit held at the Powerplant Mall, Rockwell, Makati City.

Metro Home interprets the Samsung Series 9’s “thinnest” feature as a reflection of a homeowner’s unique character, yet not in that typical negative way. According to editorin-chief Carlo Tadiar: “A homeowner believes that the important aesthetics are in the essentials.

Thinness is not necessarily the result of vanity, it is more the condition of wanting only the essential.”

Real Living Magazine interpreted the Samsung Series 9’s aspect of being

“Expect only the best as Samsung takes your laptop experience to an even greater level with truly comprehensive mobile experiences and the best in display offering our customers a complete and comprehensive notebook that meets all of their needs with one premium device with the Samsung Notebook Series 9,” said Hannah Francisco, Samsung NPC product manager.

The Samsung Series 9 Notebook measures only 16.3mm (0.64 inches) in depth, and with a screen size of 13 inches; a weight of only 1.31 kg and uses the 'SuperBright Plus' display (400nit) with 16 million color reproduction that is 80% brighter than other notebooks, all encased in the most advanced duralumin metal alloy only used in specialized aircrafts, making it durable yet stylish and ultra light.

It is available for Php 79,990 with a three-year warranty.

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Taking to heart the Samsung Series 9’s “lightest” characteristic, My Home Magazine fashioned a light and breezy living space, an epitome of rest and relaxation, that truly felt as light as air. Jie Pambid, editor-inchief, said: “The feeling is anything but heavy, white surfaces shine and glow as light bounce and create reflections of light. Light on light.”

the “brightest” in three ways— light, intellect and color. Who says reading nooks are boring? “Style plus function meets a small reading corner—truly a bright idea,” added editor-in-chief Rachelle Medina.

event

Never Stop Exploring with TNF100 Words and Photos by Benjamin Arnold

Since 2008, The North Face 100 (TNF100) has been testing the endurance and stamina of marathon runners around the Asia-Pacific region. With marathons held throughout Australia, The Philippines, Singapore, China, Japan, Taiwan and soon in Thailand, participants are tasked to run through various obstacle filled terrains ranging from 11km to 100km. Take into account the tough yet breathtaking landscapes and you have a marathon that evokes the true values of The North Face brand that being premiership, authenticity and technical innovation to “Never Stop Exploring.”

June2011

With nearly 400 registered participants, TNF100 took the run to the hot “Pacific Rim of Fire” in the province of Camarines Sur in Bicol (or CamSur for short), with the race originating from the worldrenowned CamSur Watersports Complex (CWC). This marks the first time the TNF100 route will allow runners to orbit around two volcanoes, namely Mt. Isarog and Mt. Iriga.

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On April 30, the marathon began at 3am where the participants of the 100km run took off, trekking the rugged terrain of CamSur then followed shortly after by the 50km marathon runners. The amazingly long trail crossed a variety of challenging environments, from simple flat roads, to rugged dirt paths lined with rocks and boulders; from high-altitude mountain trails and forests to wet and humid rocky waterfalls and streams. www.gadgetsmagazine.com.ph

Five hours and 34 minutes later the first runner, Leo Colonia, crossed the finish line to take the gold for the 50km race. Shortly after him came silver winner, Jemarvin Cabilan followed by bronze winner, Darry Bado. For the women’s 50km, the gold went to Abigail Manaois; silver to Victorina Calma; and bronze to Carlisle Dizon. For the Men’s 100km, the gold went to Eliud Kering; silver to Eduardo Villanueva; and the bronze to Franklin Penalosa. For the women’s 100km, Merlita Dunkin took the gold; Helen Tacling took the silver and Ellen Tolentino took the bronze.

On May 1, the runners of the 22km and 11km run set off at 4am on their run around CamSur. 41 minutes and 49 minutes later, Michael Abanador crossed the finish line taking the gold in the men’s 11km run; followed by silver winner, Marino Lagyap, and bronze winner,

Kim Paul Ryan. For the women’s division of the 11km run, Katrina Golfo took the gold; Christina Ticzon took the silver; and Botana Jona took the bronze. For the men’s 22km run, Diosdado Ramirez took the gold; Eric Zagada took the silver and Emerson Gonzales took the bronze.

For the women’s 22km run, Melanie Malihan took the gold, Lana Jacel Mercado took the silver and Sabrina Martinez took the bronze. The awarding took place shortly after at the CWC main events area.

TNF100 2011 was sponsored by the province of CamSur, CamSur Watersports Complex, AXN, Summit Natural Drinking Water, Dispatch, Nature Valley, Garmin, Primer Group of Companies, Total Fitness Magazine, Nalgene, BusinessMirror, R.O.X., Sea to Summit, Res|Toe|Run, and 100 Plus Sports Drink.

www.gadgetsmagazine.com.ph

June2011

Fusion II: The Ultimate Epson Adventure

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Words and Photos by M.R. Gavin

Epson, a full-pledged imaging solutions company, recently capped off the 2010 fiscal year with a muchawaited adventure with media partners.

What better way to celebrate this partnership than by spending the remaining days of summer with the sun and sea? This is actually the second time Epson mounted a scuba diving event. The first time was with its business partners and it became a huge success. That is why they are sharing the experience to the media for a unique and action-packed adventure.

The Acacia Dive Resort was identified as the getaway venue for the media event, located in pristine Anilao, Batangas—marked as one of the best diving spots in the world. There was never a dull moment during the entire 2-day event—just pure fun, adventure and camaraderie.

The highlight of the event was when diving master John David, along with members of the Professional Association of Diving Instructors, led the Epson media group to a nearby marine sanctuary where fishes and corals reside.

Fusion II was made even more exciting as the group took photos underwater while holding letter blocks printed using Epson’s

smudge-proof and water-proof ink and printing technologies. The printouts never faded or smudged despite being in the water for a long period of time.

The Epson DURABrite pigment technology helps you protect your printouts. It is fade-proof, light-resistant, water-proof and smudge-proof. The C64, C80 and R800 Epson printers are just some of the products that use this ink technology. These printers can produce brighter, sharper and more colorful printouts directly from the camera or memory card, no more transferring of files to a computer.

If you are asking if this technology requires a specific paper, think again. The DURABrite technology can be water-proof and smudge-proof even on plain papers. It has a quickdrying formula that allows photos to be handled immediately after printing which is ideal for back-toback printing.

Epson’s DURABrite Ultra Ink technology is definitely the most versatile ink around—through sun, smudge, water and time.

events

newsbits&bytes the biggest news served fresh in

Globe Helps Bring the Family Closer My Super Circle Plan keeps you connected not just with your nearest and dearest, thanks to a brand-new bundle of three postpaid lines that you can get for only Php1,499 a month. For that price, you get your choice of unlimited services: Try SuperUNLI for free-for-all calling and texting to family and friends on Globe and TM, or SuperDUO for all-you-can unlimited calls to Globe

landlines and Globe and TM phones, or SuperTxtALL that will keep you in touch with virtually 84 million mobile users across all networks in the country. Or you can try them all, one at a time, because with My Super Circle Plan, you can change your unlimited services every month.

Martha Sazon, head of Globe Postpaid, explains, “My Super Circle Plan is a first

June2011

Globe showcases 4G technology

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Globe Telecom conducted a live speed test demonstration of its 4G mobile technology, using the global standard HSPA+ or Evolved HighSpeed Packet Access at its initial rollout phase. This followed after the company has announced that the technology is already available in 19 sites in Metro Manila, covering Marikina, Quezon City, Makati, Pasay, Las Piñas, Taguig and the City of Manila. www.gadgetsmagazine.com.ph

During the live demo, a Globe 4G HSPA+-powered broadband dongle was speed tested simultaneously with four other dongles—a regular Globe Tattoo stick (2G), a Globe SuperStick (3G) and its two competitor brands. In the speed test, the broadband stick running on 4G HSPA+ bested its competitors after registering a download speed of 8.55Mbps and an upload speed of 1.02Mbps. Its 2G and 3G-powered sticks

of its kind, the only fullycustomizable group plan that’s perfect for families who want to stay in touch around the clock. With its menu of unlimited services and your choice of gadgets, you can get your whole family Globe-connected and you can pick and choose the things that you like best so that every member of the family can get something they love.”

also showed better and improved performance in download and upload speeds after being used in a 4G-powered site, surpassing existing speeds. This showed speed and reliability of 4G HSPA+ amidst simultaneous broadband sticks being tested which required more network bandwidth to work.

Globe Portfolio Management Head Joanna Africa also showcased the various functionalities of Samsung Galaxy S2, the latest 4G-capable device that Globe will exclusively offer to its subscribers in the next few weeks to allow them to fully enjoy the 4G experience on their handsets. With this device, subscribers are treated to better and more stable data connections that will result in high-speed web browsing and faster video streaming and downloads.

bite-sized quantities

Everyone’s Vision Petron:

Lakbay Pinoy

Everyone’s Vision Petron is an exhibition and competition for all young and budding artists.

Themed “Lakbay Pinoy: Journeys to Remember, Pathways to Rediscover,” this year’s competition focuses on life journeys expressed symbolically by roads, highways and byways. It can be a mountain path representing a journey to success, or a zigzag lane symbolizing seasons of change. It can be a forest trail sparking childhood memories, or a nostalgic route conjuring reminiscences of student life.

Petron believes that everyone has his/her own unique perspective on things and that this uniqueness can be expressed in so many different ways. This is the inspiration behind Everyone’s Vision Petron, the belief that free artistic expression remains intrinsic to nation-building.

Everyone’s Vision Petron is open to all students enrolled in a regular university or college course, or in tutorial

and photography classes.

Student artists may compete in three categories: painting (oil and water-based media), photography, and t-shirt design.

In the painting category, six Grand Prize winners will each receive Php 50,000; for the colored photography category, six Grand Prize winners will each receive Php 30,000; and in the T-shirt design category, three Grand Prize winners will each receive Php 30,000.

All winners will also receive a trophy/plaque designed

by National Artist Napoleon Abueva.

Application forms are available at participating Petron service stations and bulk plants nationwide, or from the Secretariat Office (c/o Studio 5 Designs, 28 Paseo de Roxas corner Jupiter St., Bel-Air Village, Makati City, telephone 02-8909318). The form may also be downloaded from the website: www. visionpetron.com. Deadline for submission of entries is July 18 at Petron bulk plants nationwide or July 25 at the project secretariat.

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Sun Cellular Opens Flagship store

Asus Presents Senses Remix

Asus, a company known for innovation and a true passion for design, held “Senses Remix,” a combined concert and exhibition, at Milan Design Week. Senses Remix showcased new ways in which technology can energize our hearing, sight and touch.

Senses Remix took place during the Milan Design Week from April 12 to 17 and the event revolutionized the concept of playing music. Visitors to the Milano Studio Digital were the first in the world to experience Senses Remix. Asus designers were there to share the core of the company’s design philosophy and vision.

The main hall was devoted to Senses Remix where visitors faced an orchestra of 16 Asus NX90 notebooks. Designed with David Lewis, chief designer of Bang & Olufsen, the NX90s are capable of delivering an outstanding visual and aural experience. Visitors were able to create their own music using various Eee Slate EP121 PCs, with each programmed to play a different instrument.

“This year, we return to the basic idea of what makes us human—our senses. We want to draw new inspiration from our eyes, our ears, and our hands to reconnect with the world, as much as we do with our inner selves,” said the project leader Jen Chuang. “We want to be there when important events take place and when you share those events with your loved ones. We see ourselves not just as a computer manufacturer, but also as a provider of new ways for people to connect with everything they hold dear.”

Asus also has two additional themes called “Behind our sound” and “Beyond your touch.” The former gave visitors the opportunity to see a brief history of how the NX90 came about, while the latter introduced the Eee Pad range where visitors got hands-on time with these new products.

True to its commitment to deliver the best-value and relationship-enhancing services to its consumers, Sun Cellular opens its new and first Flagship store in Robinsons Galleria mall.

The now bigger and trendier Sun Shop features not only contemporary store design but also customerfriendlier space layout.

Sun products and services are organized in “zones and sub-zones” to better serve the specific needs of customers and enhance the transaction flows inside the shop. The Postpaid zone puts on view various

subscription plans and packages, mobile handsets from the basic models to BlackBerry models, and other fantastic postpaid deals. The International zone highlights Sun’s best value offers in international call, international SMS, and international roaming. The Broadband zone presents the newest broadband wireless devices, attractive data plans and unbeatable product bundles. The Prepaid zone familiarizes customers to the various Sun-prepaid SIMs that cater to different types of users, very affordable loads, and exciting promotions. More

interactive facilities are also available for added fun which includes a state-ofthe-art 40-inch touchscreen display with a sound dome where customers can sample the latest in valueadded services (games, music, videos, etc.).

The concept shop is designed by renowned Zebra Projects FZE based in Dubai under the supervision of managing directors Mark Mason and Lee Roberts.

Zebra Projects FZE is the same company responsible for designing elite fashion and retail stores in the country.

New Chief for Honda Cars Philippines Honda Cars Philippines Inc. (HCPI) recently announced the appointment of Tatsuya Natsume as its new president and general manager, effective April 1.

Prior to his assignment in the Philippines, Natsume was the marketing director of Honda Siel Cars, India, Ltd. He also held posts in Germany and Italy.

Natsume’s Philippine assignment marks a significant chapter in his career as he celebrates his 25th anniversary in Honda. He joined Honda Motor Co., Ltd. right after graduation in 1986, “My first car was a Honda Civic. I fell in love with its excellent performance and put high regard in the brand. This strongly motivated me to join the company,” he said.

June2011

In his 25 fruitful years in Honda, Natsume has been considerably versed with several overseas operations. Apart from his assignments outside Japan, he also handled the Latin America, Middle East, Africa, Asia-Oceania and China operations from Honda Motor’s headquarters in Tokyo.

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Natsume shares his enthusiasm to his new post. He said, “I am very excited to get to know the Filipinos better. Ten years ago, I visited the Philippines to conduct a market study. And now, as president of HCPI, my goal is to assess and have a deeper understanding of the market in order to provide the finest products and services the Filipino customers are looking for.” www.gadgetsmagazine.com.ph

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June2011

Kickers Gets Stylish New Kicks Youth brand Kickers unveils its latest collection with a delicious feast and sizzling fashion show for the relaunch of Kickers’ latest Spring / Summer 2011 collection.

Popularly known for its plain black school shoes, Kickers and its exclusive distributor, The Primer Group of Companies, set out to dispel of that misconception by unveiling the brand’s newest lifestyle-centric collection

during an intimate rooftop backyard barbeque. More than just the perfect school shoe, Kickers now carries a full lineup of comfortable, high-quality leather shoes ranging from casual footwear to more polished styles.

Models walked the runway sporting Kickers’ trendiest designs, including Hava, a fashion forward pair of women’s closed flats made of snakeskin leather; Hanne,

Exhibiting fresh new styles and a fun approach, Kickers has proven itself to be a brand that continuously evolves to follow its customers no matter what the style.

Get to own a brand new BlackBerry Curve 8520 with The Great BlackBerry Deal 999 which gives you calls, texts and mobile Internet browsing, without limit.

On top of that, you can also enjoy free 3 months of unlimited BlackBerry Service. And, for just a one-time cash out of Php 2,000, you’ll get your BlackBerry Curve 8520.

To continue enjoying your BlackBerry Service, you have the option to subscribe either to BlackBerry Add-on Plans (Plan 700 or Plan 999) or you may opt for the BlackBerry Pay-Per-Use service.

To look your best from head to toe, you don’t have to go to the nail salon to care for your nails. All you need is a trusted nail care product line that will help you keep your nails healthy and beautiful especially this summer when you’re outdoors and on-the-go most of the time

recommended. A top coat will also minimize chipping or cracking of the nail. It is advisable to use a clear coat on natural nails to protect the nails from yellowing or discoloration. After washing, apply cream or lotion to keep hands and nails soft and smooth. Cuticles should be well-moisturized with the use of Bobbie Cuticle Oil.

CARE The best way to keep nails healthy is to moisturize them daily to avoid cracks and splitting. The use of non-drying nail polish removers like Bobbie Nail Polish Remover is

CLEAN You must have the right Bobbie Nail care tools to clean your nails such as fingernail clipper, toenail clipper, nipper, buffer and toe separator, nail polish remover and cuticle remover

to name a few. They are all designed especially for home use.

COLOR Apply the polish of your choice, then, show off your beautiful nails. Since it’s summer, use bright and vibrant hues to make your nails shine through the hot season. Bobbie has an array of chemical-free nail polish, not to mention striking shades. Moreover, they are guaranteed safe to use since they are free of toxins such as formaldehyde, toluene and dibutyl phthalate which are harmful to the health.

newsbits&bytes

Care, clean and color with Bobbie

women’s wedged summer sandal with floral straps; and Hobson, men’s classic design made current with bold color combinations.

Sun offers great BlackBerry deal

newsbits&byte

cavity does not discolorate even in high temperatures and prevents bacteria from proliferation. The Hohenstein Institute has accredited that Samsung’s microwave oven has added anti-bacterial agents to ceramic enamel cavity, which has high durability against corrosion.

The Korea Research Institute of Standards and Science acknowledged that Samsung Electronics’ anti-bacterial ceramic enamel cavity ensures a level of durability that is at least 7.5 times higher than iron plate to which epoxy coating is applied.

Samsung Signs Beckham Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd., a market leader in consumer electronics and the worldwide olympic partner for wireless communications equipment, announced an exclusive agreement with David Beckham to be its global brand ambassador for the London 2012 Olympic Games. Beckham will begin his ambassador role with immediate effect and will play a key part in raising awareness of Samsung’s sponsorship of London 2012 as a Worldwide Olympic Partner. The collaboration will start with appearances in multi-platform adverts and public relations campaigns, covering various elements of Samsung’s London 2012 marketing program.

At the official signing of the partnership Gyehyun Kwon, Vice President and Head of Worldwide Sports Marketing at Samsung Electronics, said Samsung and David Beckham shared a great number of common values ranging from their mutual commitment to youth and their continuing efforts to encourage more people to participate in sports.

David Beckham was Samsung’s No. 1 choice to be global ambassador for the sponsorship of London 2012. His success as a sportsman and his

ambassadorial role in bringing the Olympic Games to London were among the many reasons for his selection. Commenting on the agreement Beckham said: “I’m very proud to be part of the team that brought the Olympics to my home city, London. It is one of the greatest events in the world. Working with a globally respected brand, like Samsung, our aim will be to help more and more people to enjoy and share the excitement of the London 2012 Olympic Games.”

Samsung’s Microwave Oven World’s First to Win Clean Certification Samsung Electronics became the first in the world to receive a microwave certification mark for anti-bacterial technology, recognizing the company’s ceramic enamel cavity inside.

The Hohenstein Institute, an internationally recognized research and service center for hygiene and biotechnology

in Germany, tested Samsung’s microwaves and validated its antibacterial performance.

Due to the high level of durability, the ceramic enamel cavity found in Samsung’s microwave does not come off, turn rusty or crack, thus preventing it from becoming dirty.

Further, the ceramic enamel

June2011

Be Summer-Worthy With Posh Nails

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Give your nails, hands and feet as much care and thought as you would your wardrobe, hair and skin this season.

Gorgeous, smooth and healthy looking hands and feet are a must to complete the amazing look you’ve always wanted.

Posh Nails, one of today’s most popular nail spas, helps make you ready for summertime with its “Thank www.gadgetsmagazine.com.ph

God It’s Summer” promo.

Offered at all Posh Nails branches nationwide, it is a three-part promotion that includes the Themed Service, Waxing package and the 3-in-1 massage.

Timely for the hot season, Themed Service features OPI Tropical Citrus scrub or the Pina Colada Treatment formulated with sugar crystals, coconut and citrus extracts that help reduce calluses and banish rough

dry skin. This guarantees silky smooth hands and feet. It is something worth spending for! Whether for self-pampering or as a gift, it will definitely be a relaxing treat! The themed service costs Php675 for the feet and Php600 for the hands. The Waxing Package, meanwhile, includes free eyebrow waxing for every waxing services worth Php1,500. Relax after a hard day at work with Posh Nails’ 3-in-1 massage only at

P600 for back, foot and hand massage.

Match your colorful swimwear and summer frocks with beautiful and uniquely polished nails. Posh Nails is bringing back a trend from the ‘90s, the ‘crackpolish.’

A kind of nail art, it creates that extraordinary cracked effect on your nails. Ditch the gloomy colors of past seasons and go for brighter shades the colors of the sun and the sea.

“Our antibacterial ceramic enamel cavity is created the way pottery is produced,” said Chang Wan Hong, executive vice president of Samsung Digital Appliances. “We apply antibacterial porcelain enamel that is produced in high temperatures—up to 830 degrees Celsius—to the inside of a microwave.

The result is a high-class material that has a smooth, shiny surface like that of a piece of pottery. We’re the only company in the world to have such a feature in microwave ovens.”

Samsung Electronics plans to apply its antibacterial technology to all microwave product groups to provide consumers with healthier tools for cooking.

www.gadgetsmagazine.com.ph

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June2011

Generika strengthens market presence Generika Drugstore, a pioneer in the retail distribution of quality generic medicines in the country, is strengthening its market presence this year through store expansion and brandbuilding activities.

Generika Drugstore not only offers generic medicines as a value-for-money alternative to branded products It also ensures that consumers get quality medicines that carry the same active ingredients and are as beneficial as branded products. Generika Drugstore has strong internal standards for screening and monitoring the quality of medicines

Since temperature and other storage conditions may affect the efficacy of medicines, Generika Drugstore warehouses and stores are air-conditioned to maintain drug potency.

Distinguishing it above other neighborhood boticas is the superior level of service offered by Generika Drugstore. In-store personnel are trained to offer professional counseling to customers, giving them advice on how to use drugs safely and effectively.

All Generika Drugstore outlets offer free blood pressure monitoring, while blood sugar screening as well as cholesterol screening can be availed for a very minimal fee. Generika Drugstore conducts Libreng

Konsulta, Libreng Bunot days as part of its outreach program, while generic awareness presentations are held to educate senior citizens and other groups about generic drugs.

All stores are fully computerized and use a powerful and user-friendly point-of-sale application that was developed in-house and continues to be enhanced for the benefit of franchisees and their customers.

In addition to quality generic medicines, Generika Drugstore also carries branded medicines, medical supplies, galenicals (or herbal formulations), and selected consumer goods — all at very competitive prices. Thus, Generika Drugstore offers a wider product selection and are more complete drugstores compared to similar small outlets.

For added customer

convenience, selected Generika Drugstore outlets offer free delivery service for a minimum Php300 purchase of generics.

Starting out with a single outlet in Alabang in 2004, Generika Drugstore expanded to 16 companyowned stores strategic locations in Metro Manila, Cavite and Laguna by 2008.

Building on the success of their business model, Generika opened up franchising opportunities to Filipino entrepreneurs in May 2008. Generika now has 170 operational and soon-to-open stores all over the country. Many franchise applications are being processed and more locations will be opened as the company is geared to expand more aggressively in the coming months and years.

Generika Drugstore was the national winner in the drugstore chain category of

the Drugstore Association of the Philippines Quality Award in 2008. In 2009, the BFAD (Bureau of Food & Drugs) Quality Seal Award was granted to five Generika Drugstore branches, while the Generika-Soledad branch was named overall winner for the drugstore chain category.

Entrepreneur Magazine recognized Generika Drugstore with the Best in Franchise Support and Most Promising Franchise in 2009.

In 2008, it named Generika Drugstore president Teodoro L. Ferrer as one of the Top Ten Outstanding Entrepreneurs. Teodoro was also one of the finalists in the prestigious Ernest & Young Entrepreneur of the Year-Philippines 2010.

newsbits&bytes

Founded in 2003, the Generika Drugstore chain aims to provide for the healthcare needs of Filipino families by offering affordable but quality products with superior customer service.

offered in its drugstores. It carries only BFAD-approved products and verifies that its suppliers comply with good manufacturing practices.

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BASIC B3450 N 14-inch LED Panel Intel Pentium T4500 2GB DDR3 1-Year 320GB Php 17,999

BASIC B2310 14-inch LED Panel Intel Celeron T3500 2GB DDR2 1-Year 250GB Php 15,999

BASIC B4109 14-inch HD LED Intel Core i3 370M 2GB DDR3 1-Year 500GB Php 31,999

BASIC B4107 14-inch HD LED Intel Pentium P6200 2GB DDR3 1-Year 500GB Php 28,999

BASIC B4109 N 14-inch HD LED Intel Core i3 370M 2GB DDR3 1-Year 500GB Php 27,999

BASIC B4107 N 14-inch HD LED Intel Pentium P6200 2GB DDR3 1-Year 500GB Php 24,999

BASIC B3375 10.1-inch WSVGA Intel Atom N455 2GB DDR3 1-Year 320GB Php 17,999

BASIC B3380 10.1-inch WSVGA Intel Atom N550 2GB DDR3 1-Year 320GB Php 18,999

BASIC B3510 12-inch display Intel Atom D510 2GB DDR2 1-Year 320GB Php 19,999

ELAN L4195 14-inch HD LED Intel Core i5 450M 2GB DDR3 1-Year 640GB Php 39,999

ELAN L4193 N 14-inch HD LED Intel Core i5 450M 2GB DDR3 1-Year 640GB Php 32,999

June2011

NEO

*Models denoted with N do NOT have OS

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Tablet

June2011

REDFOX

WIZPAD T1030IW 10-inch Backlit capacitive LED Intel Atom 455 16GB SSD Windows 7 Starter Php 31,999

WIZPAD T1032IW 10-inch Backlit capacitive LED Intel Atom 455 32GB SSD Windows 7 Home Premium Php 37,999

WIZPAD T1034IW 10-inch Backlit capacitive LED Intel Atom 455 32GB SSD Windows 7 Home Premium Php 41,999

SAMSUNG

SAMSUNG GALAXY ACE S5830 3.5-inch TFT capacitive touchscreen Android 2.2 (Froyo) 800 MHz ARM 11 processor, Adreno 200 GPU, Qualcomm MSM7227 chipset 112.4 x 59.9 x 11.5 mm GSM 850/900/1800/1900, HSDPA 900/2100 Php 16,500

SAMSUNG GALAXY MINI S5570 3.14-inch TFT capacitive touchscreen Android 2.2 (Froyo) 600 MHz processor 110.4 x 60.8 x 12.1 mm GSM 850/900/1800/1900, HSDPA 900/2100 Php 10,690

SAMSUNG GALAXY FIT S5670 3.31-inch TFT capacitive touchscreen Android 2.2 (Froyo) 600 MHz processor 110.2 x 61.2 x 12.6 mm GSM 850/900/1800/1900, HSDPA 900/2100 Php 12,890

HTC

HTC DESIRE Z 3.7-inch S-LCD capacitive touchscreen Android 2.2 (Froyo) 800 MHz Scorpion processor, Adreno 205 GPU, Qualcomm MSM 7230 chipset 119 x 60.4 x 14.2 mm GSM 850/900/1800/1900, HSDPA 900/2100 Php 30,800

Desktop

ICITIZEN EZ100-16AW 15.6-inch LED monitor AMD Athlon Processor LE-1640 1GB DDR2 1-Year 250GB Php 16,000

EVOLVE ET18510ANW 18.5-inch LCD AMD Athlon Processor X2 215 2GB DDR2 1-Tyear 320GB Php 28,499

ICITIZEN IC1040I 10-inch LED Intel Atom N450 1GB DDR2 1-Year 250GB Php 15,000

ICITIZENW1040I 10-inch LED Intel Atom N450 2GB DDR2 1-Year 320GB Php 17,990

HTC DESIRE HD 4.3-inch LCD capacitive touchscreen Android 2.2 (Froyo) 1 GHz Scorpion processor, Adreno 205 GPU, Qualcomm MSM8255 Snapdragon 123 x 68 x 11.8 mm GSM 850/900/1800/1900, HSDPA 900/2100 Php 33,500

HTC HD7 4.3-inch LCD capacitive touchscreen Microsoft Windows Phone 7 1 GHz Scorpion processor, Adreno 200 GPU, Qualcomm QSD8250 Snapdragon chipset 122 x 68 x 11.2 mm GSM 850/900/1800/1900, HSDPA 900/2100 Php 36,900

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Notebook

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HP MINI 110-3101TU 10.1-inch LCD Intel Atom N475 1GB DDR2 1 year warranty parts and labor 250GB HDD Php 18,990

CQ42-357TU 14-inch LED Intel Pentium P6200 2GB 1066DDR3 1 year warranty parts and labor 320GB Php 26,990

June2011

CQ42-268TX 14-inch LED Intel Core i3 350M 2GB 1066DDR3 1 year warranty parts and labor 500GB Php 33,990

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AGFA

HP

G42-368TX 14-inch LED Intel Core i3 380M 2GB 1066DDR3 1 year warranty parts and labor 500GB Php 39,990 www.gadgetsmagazine.com.ph

MINI 210-2005TU/ 2025TU BLACK/ RED 10.1 LED flush display Intel Atom N475 2GB DDR3 1 year warranty parts and labor 320GB Php 22,990

CQ42-254TU 14-inch LED Intel Core i3 350M 2GB 1066DDR3 1 year warranty parts and labor 320GB Php 29,990

CQ42-263TU 14-inch LED Intel Core i5 450M 2GB 1066DDR3 1 year warranty parts and labor 320GB Php 34,990

G42-370TX 14-inch LED Intel Core i5 460M 2GB 1066DDR3 1 year warranty parts and labor 500GB Php 40,990

MINI 210-1102TU/1103 RED/BLUE 10.1 LED flush display Intel Atom N475 1GB 667DDR3 1 year warranty parts and labor 250GB Php 21,490

PRECISA 1430 14.1 Megapixels 2.4-inch Auto Brigthness LCD 20 MB internal memory, expandable via SD card 3x Optical Zoom with Image Stabilization 92 x 60.5 x 30.35mm Php 2,995

CQ42-292TX 14-inch LED Intel Core i3 350M 2GB 1066DDR3 1 year warranty parts and labor 320GB Php 38,990

OPTIMA 145 14.1 Megapixels 2.7-inch Auto Brightness LCD 64 MB internal memory, expandable via SD card 5x Optical Zoom with Image Stabilization 97.7 x 60.5 x 21.58mm Php 4,995

G42-366TX 14-inch LED Intel Core i3 380M 2GB 1066DDR3 1 year warranty parts and labor 500GB Php 35,990

OPTIMA 147 14.1 Megapixels 3-inch Auto Brightness LCD 64 MB internal memory, expandable via SD card 7x Optical Zoom with Image Stabilization 99.5 x 56.9mm x 21.23mm Php 5,995

G42-372TX 14-inch LED Intel Core i5 460M 2GB 1066DDR3 1 year warranty parts and labor 500GB Php 43,990

SELECTA 14 14.1 Megapixels 2.7-inch Auto Brightness LCD 13.7 MB internal memory, expandable via SD card 15x Optical Wide Zoom with Optical Image Stabilization 103 x 74 x 68mm Php 8,995

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NIKON

CANON

June2011

EOS 1100D 12.2 Megapixels 2.7-inch LCD with Live View shooting SD card, SDHC card or SDXC card EF-S 18-55mm f.3.5-5.6 IS II (Kit lens) 129.9x 99.7x 77.9mm Php 31,950

EOS 600D 18 megapixels 3-inch wide LCD with vari-angle SD card, SDHC card or SDXC card EF-S 18-55mm f.3.5-5.6 IS II (Kit lens) 133.1 x 99.5 x 79.7 mm Php 49,950

DIGITAL IXUS 310 HS 12.1 megapixels 3.2-inchPureColor II Touch LCD screen SD card, SDHC card or SDXC card 4.4x Optical zoom 100.6 x 55.4 x 25.0 mm Php 19,950

DIGITAL IXUS 220 HS 12.1-megapixels 2.7-inch PureColor II G LCD SD card, SDHC card or SDXC card 24mm, 5x zoom, Optical IS 92.2 x 55.9 x 19.5 mm Php 16,950

POWERSHOT A3300 IS 16 megapixels 3.0-inch TFT LCD SD card, SDHC card or SDXC card 5.0 – 25.0 mm, 5x optical zoom 95.1 x 56.7 x 23.9 mm Php 9,950

EEE PC 1215T 12-inch LED AMD V105, 1.2 GHz 2GB DDR3 1 year warranty parts and labor 320GB HDD Php 19,995

K42F-VX329 Intel Core i3-380 2GB DDR3 1066 Mhz SDRAM 500GB HDD, 14" LED Display, Super Multi ODD, Card Reader, BT, 0.3MP webcam HDMI port, No OS, Bag Php 26,995

N43SL-V1G-VX132 14-inch LED Intel Core i5 2410M (2.3 GHz) 2GB DDR 1333 Mhz SDRAM 1 year warranty parts and labor 500 GB HDD Php 39,995

1005PXD Red, 10.1" Anti-Glare display, N455 1GB DDR2, 250GB HDD, BT, 802.11 b/g wireless, 2 USB, BT, Card reader 0.3MP webcam, Win 7 Starter Available in red, blue, and black Php 14,995

COOLPIX L120 14.1 megapixels 3-inch TFT LCD 120 MB, expandable via SD card NIKKOR 4.5-94.5mm lens, 21X Optical Zoom 109.9 X 76.5 X 78.4 mm Php 15,999

COOLPIX L23 10.1 megapixels 2.7-inch TFT LCD 22 MB, expandable via SD card NIKKOR 4.0-20.00mm lens, 5x Optical Zoom 96.7 X 59.9 X 29.3 mm Php 4,699

K42N-VX057O 14-inch LED AMD V140, 2.3 GHz 2GB DDR2 800 MHz SDRAM 1 year warranty parts and labor 320 GB HDD Php 18,995

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ASUS

links Technology

Mobility

http://www.acer.com.ph

Classic Motors, Incorporated Bonifacio High Street 5th Avenue Bonifacio Global City Taguig Tel. 856 3471

Acer

Asus Technology Philippines, Inc. Hanston Bldg., Ortigas Center, Pasig City Tel. 634 0309 http://ph.asus.com

Epson Philippines Corporation 8th Floor Anson’s Centre 23 ADB Avenue, Ortigas Center Pasig City Tel. 706 2609 TOLL FREE 1800-1063-EPSON www.epson.com.ph

Fujitsu G/F Techno Hub Computer Gallery, Shangri-La Plaza EDSA Corner Shaw Boulevard Mandaluyong Tel 843 4343 local 2166

Honda Cars Phils., Inc. 105 South Main Avenue Laguna Technopark Sta. Rosa, Laguna Tel. 857 7200

Lifestyle

Samsung Electronics, Phils. Corporation 7/F Hanjinphil Bldg., 1128 University Parkway North Bonifacio Global City Taguig City Tel. 1-800-SAMSUNG

Toshiba Notebooks Tricom Dynamics, Inc. Metro House 345 Sen. Gil Puyat Avenue, Makati City Tel. 890 6525 www.gadgetsmagazine.com.ph

Isuzu Isuzu Automotive Dealership Incorporated 1780 Alabang Zapote Road Corner Acacia Avenue 1780 Muntinlupa City Tel. 807 1788

Hellolulu United Limsun International Trading Corporation 103B Jose Abad Santos St. Little Baguio, San Juan Tel. 470 1127; 470 7096 Fax 470 1056

Unit A, Dana Executive Studio, 8022 Tanguile St., San Antonio Village, Makati Tel. 403 0814

No. 15 F. Legaspi St., Maybunga, Pasig City Tel. 641 4181

Danny Floro Street Bagong Ilog, Pasig City Tel. 671 9724

Stall 327B, Level R3, Powerplant Mall, Rockwell Center, Makati City Tel. 899 7332

Coexist

LG Electronics Philippines Inc.

Suzuki Philippines Inc.

Billabong

SiSPH Technologies, Inc. Suite 3003, 30th flr.

Atlanta Center, 31 Annapolis St., Greenhills, San Juan, Metro Manila Tel. 728 3388

Unit 15-A,15th Floor, Citibank Tower, Paseo de Roxas, Makati City 1200.

Tel. 556 3106

June2011

Honda

HTC

Lenovo

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Chery Cars

your gadgets directory

Converse Filcon Mfg. Corp.

Converse - Unit E, 2801 C East Tower, PSE Centre, Exchange Road, Ortigas Center Pasig CIty

Cutex Available in all SM department stores, Watson’s, Landmark, Robinsons, Shopwise Libis, Rustans Supermarket, Cash& Carry Department Store and in select Mercury Drug Store outlets

Diadora RSH Marketing (Phils.) Inc. 888 Edsa, Highway Hills, Mandaluyong City Tel. 635 4301

Energie Theodore’s G/F Quadrant 4, Bonifacio High Street Fort Bonifacio Global City, Taguig Philippines Tel 244 7655

Kickers, Olukai PRIMER Group of Companies Primer Star Center 2282 Leon Guinto St. Malate, Manila City Tel: 303 1234; 567 0611 www.primergrp.com

PUMA 5/F Shangri-La Plaza Mall EDSA Cor Shaw Boulevard Mandaluyong City Tel. 634 2474

Reebok Planet Reebok 2/F Shangri-La Plaza Mall EDSA Corner Shaw Boulevard 1550 Mandaluyong Tel 635 4815

United Colors Of Benetton Level 2 & 3 Trinoma North Avenue Corner EDSA Quezon City Tel 901 3546

VMV Hypoallergenics VMV Skin-Specialist Centre + Clinics 117 Palanca Street, Legaspi Village Makati City Tel: 811 2449

www.gadgetsmagazine.com.ph

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February2011

links

June2011

links

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