Nokia Lumia 925 Review

[ADV]

So did you manage to guess which smartphone I used in this (https://timchew.net/2013/08/30/sneak-peak-new-smartphone-with-a-f2-0-camera/) post?

Well if you clicked on the link you would have discovered that it was the new Nokia Lumia 925.

I made a little video on the smartphone and you can watch it below.

Yes yes for once there are no pretty girls in the video so to make up for it here are some photos of girls that I took with the phone utilizing it’s F2.0 lens which is THE NUMBER ONE feature of the Lumia 925 for me.

My partner in crime.

Popular travel personality Ee Fee

MHB blogger Kate Lee.

Happy?
Ok back to the Nokia Lumia 925.

If you’re one of those like me with a (rather irritating) habit of taking pics of food that I think is interesting then uploading to social media then you’ll love how the camera can capture pics in low light AND upload it to your Skydrive so that you can access it seamlessly from you laptop/ PC. Also this is a great feature as I know many people who have moaned about how they lost a great deal of photos because their phone fell into the toilet bowl or swimming pool, or got stolen, or stopped functioning.

If you’re into night time photography this is where the camera on the Nokia Lumia 925 shines too. Here’s a pic of Maison Francaise in Kuala Lumpur.

Well I live a very busy lifestyle and so I didn’t really have the luxury of time to try out the different “lens” that comes with the Nokia Lumia 925 but here’s a little video on what the phone’s camera can do.

Cool right? Well it will come in useful for you creative peeps with loads of time but for me the F2.0 aperture is more important. In fact I even used the Lumia 925’s camera to take all the photos in my review of Chulo Restaurant & Bar in Jaya One, Petaling Jaya – https://timchew.net/2013/09/07/casual-dining-chulo-restaurant-bar/

So we’ve established that the camera and it’s “lens” are pretty good, now what about the rest of the phone?

The Nokia Lumia 925 is a slim phone and weighs in at only 139 grams and with it’s aluminium finish gives it a very premium look and feel. The phone has a 1.5 GHz dual-core Qualcomm Snapdragon™ S4 processor, 1 GB RAM, 16 GB memory with a further 7GB in your Skydrive. Now I’m sure you must be thinking…aren’t other phones running on quad-core now?

The reason why a quad-core is not needed is because the user interface (UI) is Windows Phone 8 which is not a heavy, resource-hungry UI and the processor in the Lumia 925 is more than adequate to run the apps and games without any noticeable lag. In fact I found the UI to be pretty slick and in some cases even faster than my quad-core GS3.

150,000 apps and counting so you’ll be pretty spoilt for choice. After all do you really need 20 different apps for a flashlight?

I quite liked the People app which displays the latest updates from your contacts from social media platforms such as Facebook, and Twitter, and even from Outlook, Hotmail, Google and LinkedIn!

Oh btw you can even pin contacts to the home screen. Your husband/ wife/ girlfriend/ boyfriend will never be more than a live tile away!

This one is super useful for working adults who are constantly out of the office. Just save your Excel, PDF, Word, OneNote or Powerpoint files to your SkyDrive and you will be able to access (and even edit Word and Excel docs) them from your Lumia 925.

Sharing content with your friends is a breeze as the phone is equipped with NFC and Bluetooth.

If you’re concerned about security, the phone features user data encryption ensuring that unwanted parties cannot access your data.

In the event that you lost your device and you’re worried about people accessing your sensitive data there is the remote device locking via internet, Track and Protect via internet, and remote wipe of user data via Internet ensuring that those risqué photos of you prancing around in your underwear in the snow don’t end up in the wrong hands.

Would it surprise you to know that Nokia’s Here Maps is supplied to automakers? Yes they have partnerships with BMW, Volkswagen and even Mercedes-Benz! It’s easy to use and doesn’t require any mobile data once you’ve downloaded the map of the country you are in. What’s pretty cool is that some buildings are even displayed in 3D like the Petronas Twin Towers! The roads even change colour according to traffic condition so you can adjust your route to avoid jams.

Likewise the Here Drive+ is a navigation app with turn-by-turn voice guidance and doesn’t require mobile date. Just turn on your GPS, enter your destination and never lose your way again.

Are there games for Windows Mobile? Yes of course there are and most are free to try although you might need to pay for the full versions (just like on other platforms).

If you’re a parent and you want your child to be entertained for a while you can pass them the Nokia Lumia 925 with the Kid’s Corner turned on. It allows them to access pre-selected apps while ensuring that they cannot access your important apps/ contacts without entering the password.

Another useful feature is the Glance Screen which displays the time and any other notifications (that you set to display) when the display is off saving you the effort to press the power button to light up the screen and power in the process.

Tomcat says – this is one of the better and more stylish Windows Mobile devices currently in the market. If you’re one who uses your phone to take a lot of photos (like me) then you’ll love the camera which allows you to take some pretty good photos even in low light conditions. Sure the UI will take a while to get used to if you’re migrating from other platforms but it’s user-friendly and easy to use. If you’re already a Windows Mobile user then there’s really no reason why you shouldn’t get one of these babies.

The Nokia Lumia 925 has a recommended retail price of RM1,599.00

For more info head over to http://www.nokia.com/my-en/products/phone/lumia925/

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vivo’s Flagship X70 Series and TWS 2 Series are Now Available in Malaysia

[Technology & Gadgets]

vivo has officially launched its X70 series flagship smartphones in Malaysia on 22 September 2021. The X70 series – consisting of the X70 and X70 Pro – marks the next chapter in vivo’s global imaging partnership with ZEISS and their joint pursuit of creating the ultimate mobile photography experience.
Launching alongside the X70 series, is vivo’s first 40dB Advanced Noise Cancellation TWS 2 series True Wireless Stereo earbuds, which are available in two models – the TWS 2 ANC and TWS 2e.
“As a longstanding pioneer in the industry, vivo is bringing joy to users worldwide by setting a new benchmark of mobile photography and smartphone innovation with the X70 series. Once again, we are breaking boundaries by delivering exceptional mobile photography advancements as we endeavour to make technology that is intuitive and functional to use. Smartphones are the go-to tools for users to capture memories, making them a digital gateway to tell their own stories and share those creations with the world. With the X70 series, empowered by the partnership with ZEISS, vivo is actively closing the gap between mobile and professional photography by infusing user-oriented innovation with cutting-edge technology.”Mike Xu, Chief Executive Officer of vivo Malaysia
Advancing Mobile Imaging Together with ZEISS
The X70 series is  equipped with premium mobile imaging software and hardware capabilities, from the camera system that has been co-engineered with ZEISS, renowned in the optical industry for 175 years, to the exclusive “ZEISS Portrait Style” feature, designed to mimic the look and feel of photos taken using classic ZEISS lenses.
The vivo X70 series incorporates premium imaging features to provide an intuitive photography experience for users to capture or record natural-looking photographs or videos. The entire vivo X70 lineup comes with lenses that are certified compliant with the ZEISS T* coating, which helps to reduce unwanted light flares and enhance light transmission to reduce ghosting, stray light and other unnoteworthy image artifacts for photos and videos that look stunning.
The iconic ZEISS logo and ZEISS T* Coating label is stamped on the X70 series’ rear camera array, while a ZEISS Vario-Tessar trademark has been subtly engraved on its protruding flashlight panel.
On the camera specs front, the entire X70 lineup have 32MP front cameras; the X70 Pro has a rear quad-camera array (50MP + 12MP+ 12MP + 8MP), and the X70 has a rear tri-camera system (40MP + 12MP + 12MP).
In addition to the Biotar Portrait Style’s legendary swirly bokeh, vivo has supplemented three groundbreaking ZEISS Style Portrait features – inspired by iconic, classical lenses Distagon, Planar and Sonnar – for X70 series users to shoot with. “Distagon” style gives off an anamorphic look, offering dynamic perspective effects for critical architecture and interior photography that exudes Hollywood filmmaking aesthetics. The “Planar” adaption introduces classic bokeh effects, revealing true characteristics and conveying genuine expressions through portrait photography. “Sonnar” mode is known for its creamy bokeh, making it well suited for portraiture with depth and clarity to document authentic events.
Both the X70 Pro and X70 variants possess the Ultra-Sensing Gimbal Camera coupled with Gimbal Stabilisation 3.0 technology for users to capture steady images or videos in dynamic motion. The series comes with VIS 5-Axis Ultra Stable Video technology which integrates enhanced Optical Image Stabilisation (OIS) with Electronic Image Stabilisation (EIS) to aggressively stabilise the X/Y-axis, as well as Z-axis rotation for well-rounded stability.
To complement the imaging capabilities of the phones, there also a suite of vivo’s multi-modal photography and videography features – including Real-Time Extreme Night Vision, Super Night Video, Pure Night View, Pro Cinematic Mode and more.

Both the X70 Pro and X70 run on the MediaTek Dimensity 1200-vivo chip to provide superior CPU and GPU performance. These power-efficient integrated processors allow users to get the most out of 5G connectivity everyday, while LPDDR4X and UFS 3.1 help provide lightning-quick sequential reading and writing speeds.
The X70 Pro and X70 are equipped with 4,450 mAh (TYP) batteries and 4,400 mAh (TYP) batteries respectively, and are bundled with a vivo standard charger (FlashCharge 11V / 4A) that supports 44W FlashCharge technology for long-lasting performance. The X70 Pro and X70 devices are outfitted with 6.56-inch displays that can peak at 120Hz refresh rates and 240Hz response rates for smooth scrolling and viewing.
Fluorite AG – a revolutionary industrial design process developed by vivo – has been utilised to shroud the X70 series devices in crystallised glass with a prismatic surface that exudes fluorescent effects under the light.
The X70 Pro and X70 models are available in Cosmic Black or Aurora Dawn. Cosmic Black is inspired by the eternal vigour and exuberant vitality of our universe, a colour symbolic of vast and deep darkness dotted by glittering silver hues to represent the stars during a pitch-black night. Aurora Dawn pays homage to the iridescent radiance of the Northern Lights in the polar sky.

The X70 Pro and X70 are priced at RM3,299 and RM2,499 respectively. Those interested to purchase the vivo X70 series can pre-order the devices, which are available on various platforms until 1 October 2021, with exclusive free gifts* worth up to RM799 for the X70 Pro and RM599 for the X70.
Those who pre-order the devices will be entitled to vivo Protection Plus service, which provides 1-Year Extended Warranty and 1-Year Screen Crack Protection worth RM399. In addition to that, customers who pre-order an X70 Pro will receive a Bluetooth sound bar and VIU TV membership card* worth RM400, while customers who pre-order an X70 will be walking away with a Bluetooth speaker, high speed car charger and VIU TV membership card worth RM200.

vivo TWS 2

Equipped with 12.2mm super strong bass and with support for aptX adaptive codec technology, the vivo TWS 2 series earbuds aims to offer users a superior audio experience. It also supports up to 40dB noise reduction that can detect external sound and emit precise soundwaves to counter the surrounding noise and automatically adjust the degree of noise cancellation with its intelligent algorithm.
The vivo TWS 2 series earbuds – TWS 2e and TWS 2 ANC priced at RM269 and RM369, respectively. Customers who pre-order can also enjoy a purchase-with-purchase deal when buying the X70 series devices – they can opt to buy the newly-launched vivo TWS 2 Series earbuds for only RM68 (TWS 2e) and RM98 (TWS 2 ANC).

Pre-orders can be made on the official vivo E-store, as well as via E-commerce partners including Shopee and Lazada, and authorised dealers and collaboration partners. The series will also be available at vivo official telco partners in the near future.

Photo/ visual credits: Vivo Malaysia
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Pepe Jeans London – Mid Valley Fashion Week 2013

[Fashion]
Attended the first show of the Mid Valley Fashion Week 2013 on Wednesday 10 April 2013 which featured Pepe Jeans London. To be entirely honest I have never heard of Pepe Jeans London before so it sparked my curiosity and I headed over to catch the show. To that end I even braved the crazy KL flash flood which inundated many areas in the KL city centre such as Bukit Bintang, Jalan Tun Razak and Jalan Duta with so much water that they were impassable to vehicles. It took me a good three hours to get to Mid Valley from KLCC but I managed to make it there right before the show started.
Here’s a little info on the brand:
Tired of boring old-fashioned and plain jeans, founders of Pepe jeans, Nitin Shah and his brothers Arun and Milan, unleashed their vision of detail-rich denims to an audience almost four decades ago.
Today Pepe Jeans today trades in 60 countries, sells through almost 7,000 doors at wholesale, has over 300 stores internationally, and employs over 2,000 employees, yet stays true to its original direction which is to create directional denims and challenging young fashion in an era of conformism.
Here are some photos that I shot from somewhat an awkward angle as the professional photographers were already in all the good spots so my apologies in advance.
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The official beer for the Mid Valley Fashion Week 2013 is Kronenbourg 1664.

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More info at http://www.midvalley.com.my/
More photos at https://www.facebook.com/myhotbloggers
Subscribe to my public updates at https://www.facebook.com/timchewkc
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Carlsberg’s ‘Meet & Greet Session with English Premier League Legends’
27 Premier League legends will be in Malaysia soon and will be taken on a bar-hopping ‘Meet the Fans’ session on Sunday, 21 April 2013, offering football fans a rare opportunity to have photos taken, get autographs and ask them football related questions.
The visits will be held in conjunction with Carlsberg viewing parties for two highly-stakes matches taking place that Sunday, namely the Tottenham Hotspurs vs. Manchester City game at 8:30pm followed by the Liverpool vs. Chelsea game at 11:00pm.
To give as many fans as possible a chance to be in close proximity with the legendary ‘Premier Leaguers’, the group’s time will be divided across four bars in the Klang Valley: Movida, Sunway Giza; Souled Out, Sri Hartamas; Dong Men, Scott Garden; and Brussels, Jaya One.
“The stars that Carlsberg will be bringing in are some of the very best who have played this beautiful game. This is indeed a real treat for football and Carlsberg fans alike and a great prelude to what we have in store for consumers when Carlsberg kicks off the 2013 season of BPL in August as the official beer partner,” said Soren Ravn, Managing Director of Carlsberg Malaysia.
“This is the game that calls for a Carlsberg, and we now get to engage local Premier League fans on a more personal level by giving them this uniquely Carlsberg football experience.”
Besides rubbing shoulders with other stars like Rob Jones, Dietmar Hamann, Stephen Henchoz, Frank Le Boeuf and Dennis Wise, fans can also look forward to ‘Guess The Score and Win Contest’ at the viewing parties where you might just win some attractive prizes ranging from sports gear to football merchandise. Each outlet will be giving away prizes to the top six winners who correctly predict the final scores on the day of the matches.
Over the years, Carlsberg’s association with English football has resulted in its sponsorship of Liverpool, Arsenal, Tottenham Hotspurs, Stoke City and West Ham United football clubs. It is also the official beer for several major national and international tournaments, including the UEFA EURO Championships which began in 1988. For UEFA EURO 2012, Carlsberg Malaysia took 100 die-hard fans on a football trip-of-a-lifetime to catch the championship semi-finals live in Ukraine.
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Time
Outlet
Legends

8pm – 8:35pm

Movida, Sunway Giza
Steve McManaman, Robbie Fowler & Rob Jones

8pm – 8:35pm

Souled Out, Sri Hartamas
Lee Sharpe, Dietmar Hamann & Stephane Henchoz

8pm – 8:35pm

Brussels, Jaya One
Tore Andre Flo, Frank Le Boeuf & Dennis Wise

8pm – 8:35pm

Dong Men, Scott Garden
Ronny Johnsen,  Bjørn Tore Kvarme,  Jason McAteer

9pm – 9:15pm

Movida, Sunway Giza
Lee Sharpe, Dietmar Hamann & Stephane Henchoz, Tore Andre Flo, Dennis Wise

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For more information, visit www.carlsbergmalaysia.com.my

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Lexus Malaysia Unveils the New Lexus ES 250 F SPORT

[Automotive News]

Lexus Malaysia announced on 15 October 2021 that the Lexus ES 250, a luxury sedan renowned for its craftsmanship, comfort and refinement will receive several updates in the 2021 model. Among the key enhancements are a refreshed outlook, greater comfort as well as an elevated level of safety. Joining the line-up is a new F SPORT variant with its distinctive style and finishing.
“As one of the most accomplished executive sedans on the road, the Lexus ES 250 elicits admiration for its impeccable engineering and styling that satisfies any discerning taste. Combined with the Lexus attention to detail and constant quest for excellence, the improvements to the updated model will invariably retain the Lexus ES 250 as the choice sedan to arrive in.”President of Lexus Malaysia Mr Ravindran K

A number of design features have been revised and refreshed in the new Lexus ES 250 to complement its sleek coupe-style silhouette. While the imposing spindle grille continues to provide the Lexus visual signature, its design elements have changed, with fewer vertical bars and L-shaped patterns that emphasize lateral flow. The F SPORT has a mesh pattern composed of interlocking L elements with a dark metallic finish. Cut-outs at each corner of the front fascia also sport the black finish mesh but have wider openings than the other two versions.
To complement the revised front grille, the headlamps have also received some restyling. For the Lexus ES 250 Premium, the Bi-LED Projector units have a new inner bezel design. The ultra-compact 3-beam LED projector headlamps of the Lexus ES 250 Luxury and F SPORT have a new and distinctive Daytime Running Light design.

Besides exclusive exterior fittings that include a rear spoiler, the F SPORT also has its own set of 19-inch alloy wheels with a Dark Premium Metallic finish. While the Lexus ES 250 Premium and Luxury maintain their 18-inch alloy wheels, those on the ES 250 Premium have a new design with a Dark Grey Metallic Finish.
Customers can choose from a range of eight colours for the Lexus ES 250 Premium and Luxury. Besides the two new colours – Sonic Iridium and Sonic Chrome – there are also Sonic Quartz, Sonic Titanium, Graphite Black Glass Flake, Red Mica Crystal Shine, Ice Ecru Mica Metallic, and Deep Blue Mica. The F SPORT can be ordered with one of two exclusive colours – Heat Blue Contrast Layering or White Nova Glass Flake – or Sonic Iridium, Sonic Titanium, Graphite Black Glass Flake, Sonic Chrome and Red Mica Crystal Shine.
Elegantly-stylish interior in Black trim accentuated with Flare Red upholstery

There are also new interior colour themes available as well. For the Lexus ES 250 Premium and Luxury, there’s an elegant Black with Walnut Black trim or a more luxurious Walnut Brown trim with Hazel upholstery. The Lexus ES 250 Luxury can also be ordered with Walnut Black trim and Mauve upholstery which is a medium brown colour that is both refined and modern. Aluminium finish on the trim and either Flare Red or Black upholstery is exclusively reserved for the F SPORT.
The current Lexus ES generation has many features including the spacious and comfortable interior, which is especially appreciated by the rear passengers. Intelligent interior packaging and a generous wheelbase create a level of spaciousness comparable to larger premium luxury models.
“The Lexus ES 250 truly showcases the ability of Lexus engineers in creating a well-balanced and refined automobile that appeals to a wide audience. It is a finely-developed automobile that brings luxury motoring to anyone who appreciates excellent engineering in a vehicle that can be depended on it as a chauffeured automobile or a daily driver.”Mr Akio Takeyama, Deputy Chairman of Lexus Malaysia

The advanced cockpit design has been updated with a new multimedia display for improved operability. The full colour 12.3-inch touchscreen (8 inches in the Lexus ES 250 Premium) has been repositioned 112mm closer to the occupants and turned 5 degrees towards the driver. As before, the multimedia system includes Navigation services for the Lexus ES 250 Luxury and also the new F SPORT.
With more portable electronic devices having the newer USB Type-C connector, the ports on the new Lexus ES 250 are upgraded to Type-C providing easier connection without the need for adapters. The new models also now come with a Nanoe-X negative ion generator that improves cabin air quality – the first Lexus model to introduce this feature as standard.
For the F-SPORT, there are exclusive features to emphasize its sportier character. Even the classy light-emitting analogue clock on the dashboard has its own unique L-shaped graphics, while the meter has an electric movable metal ring with a 3-D effect. The idea was first used in the Lexus LFA supercar and is found in other F SPORT variants too.

A leather-covered 3-spoke F SPORT steering wheel, dimpled leather-trimmed shift knob and sporty aluminium pedals and footrest are also part of the F SPORT package.
For better protection against being towed away by thieves, the security system in the new Lexus ES 250 includes an inclination sensor. This will detect when the car is tilted while it is being towed and the siren with an internal battery will be triggered.
All three versions of the new Lexus ES 250 are powered by the 2.5-litre DOHC A25A-FKS petrol engine. With features such as multi-hole direct injectors, a continuously variable-capacity oil pump, a variable cooling system, and VVT-iE on the intake valves, this proven 4-cylinder 16-valve engine is engineered to deliver effortless acceleration along with superior fuel-efficiency.
The long-stroke engine produces 204 hp at 6,600 rpm and 247 Nm at 5,000 rpm, which flows through a Direct Shift 8-speed automatic transmission to the front wheels. The transmission uses an ultra-thin torque converter and a multi-plate lock up clutch, giving the direct feel of a dual clutch system with the smoothness of a traditional torque converter automatic. A related system called Direct Connected Downshift allows the transmission to skip gears when large throttle openings are detected such as when overtaking on the highway.
The engine can take the Lexus ES 250 up to a maximum speed of 210 km/h after having sprinted from 0 to 100 km/h in 9.1 seconds. The Drive Mode Select system allows the engine’s performance to be prioritized for Economy or Sport, or a balance of both.

A key element of the Lexus ES 250 is the Global Architecture-K (GA-K) platform. The GA-K platform includes a chassis made from several grades of high-strength steel to further solidify the already robust structure. The platform also enhances core performance criteria to deliver excellent straight-line driving stability, cornering poise, and braking ability.
While the MacPherson strut front suspension and trailing-arm double-wishbone rear suspension are retained, the ride comfort and handling have been improved by increasing the rigidity (through adding a brace) of the rear suspension. Performance dampers are installed in the Lexus ES 250 Luxury and F SPORT and these chassis-mounted dampers absorb even the smallest instances of frame compression and/or flex to keep them from generating any resonances that might generate interior cabin noise.

Safety wise, all versions feature Lexus Safety System+ (LSS+) as standard and for the latest updated model, the Pre-Collision System (PCS) has been enhanced daytime bicyclist detection by both a millimetre-wave radar and a monocular camera sensor. Pedestrian identification in certain low-light situations is also improved by increasing the camera’s sensitivity and dynamic range.
The other elements of LSS+ are Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC) with Stop & Go Function; Lane Keeping Assist; Lane Tracing Assist (LTA) and Lane Departure Alert (LDA); and Adaptive High-beam System (AHS).
AHS is now more advanced with BladeScan technology. This uses LED-sourced light that shines onto blade mirrors spinning at high speed which is then transferred to a lens to illuminate the road ahead. A residual image effect prevents the light from appearing to be moving, while the BladeScan system precisely controls light distribution by synchronizing the rotation of the blade mirrors and switching the LED lights on and off. Capable of more intelligent shielding of light than in the case of conventional AHS, it broadens the range of high beam illumination, enabling the driver to recognize pedestrians and road signs without dazzling drivers approaching from the opposite direction.

Coupled with AHS is the new Adaptive Front-lighting System (AFS) which computes vehicle speed and steering input to direct low beams in the direction of travel. This intuitive feature is helpful on a variety of scenarios ranging from winding roads to urban driving, as it will light the path well in advance to improve driving confidence.
Also available for all versions of the Lexus ES 250 are Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) and Parking Support Brake (PKSB). Both these systems contribute to the mitigation of damage in collisions in places such as parking lots or in minor collisions with vehicles approaching from the rear or sides (while the car is being reversed out). PKSB also helps to prevent frontal collisions in the event of misapplication of the accelerator pedal.
The new 2021 Lexus ES 250 are currently available at all six authorised Lexus Malaysia outlets nationwide. The price range begins with the Lexus ES 250 Premium that is priced at RM 295,663.50 while the new Lexus ES 250 Luxury is priced at RM 329,910.50. For added distinction, the new F SPORT variant starts at RM 345,134.00 (on the road without insurance and are currently exempt of SST till the end of the year).

Photo credits: Lexus Malaysia
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HTC One Launch

[Tech & Gadgets]
MHB’s Kelly and I attended the launch of the new HTC One at Studio Lounge, Tropicana City Mall on 25 April 2013.
In case you didn’t know, here’s brief history lesson on HTC:
HTC Corp. was founded in 1997 and is the creator of many award-winning mobile devices and industry firsts. HTC pushes the boundaries of design and technology to create innovative and personal experiences for consumers around the globe by putting people at the center of everything it does, and is listed on the Taiwan Stock Exchange. HTC’s portfolio includes smartphones and tablets powered by the HTC Sense® user experience.
The predecessor to the new HTC One, the HTC One X (HTC’s 2012 flagship model) actually did very well at the Mobile World Congress 2012 and won two awards so there are high expectations for the new HTC One.
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L’Oreal and Weena – two of my favourite talents at the photowall. Took a photo with them but I know that that’s not what you want to see so here something that I know you like.
MHB’s Kelly and our two new friends with the MC for the evening the sexy and gorgeous Patricia K
After some speeches by the VIPs and a product demo, the phone is finally launched!
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Beautiful isn’t it? Well here’s a short video on the new HTC One.
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The “home” screen which by default displays the HTC Blinkfeed
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Now lets take a closer look at the phone and some of the key features:
HTC BlinkFeed: A personal live stream right on the home screen
An integral part of the new HTC One experience is HTC BlinkFeed which transforms the home screen into a single live stream of personally relevant information such as social updates, entertainment and lifestyle updates, news and photos so that people no longer need to go to separate applications to find out what’s happening. HTC BlinkFeed aggregates the freshest content from the most relevant and interesting sources, giving it to people at a glance, all in one place, without the need to jump between multiple applications and web sites.
To enable this new dynamic approach to the smartphone, HTC will provide both local and global content from more than 1,400 media sources with more than 10,000 articles per day from some of the most innovative media companies, such as the AOL family of media properties, ESPN, MTV, Vice Media, CoolHunting, Reuters and many others.
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So slim! The HTC One is only 9.3mm thick!
Sleek, stylish and very desirable!
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HTC UltraPixel Camera with HTC Zoe
The HTC UltraPixel Camera redefines how people capture, relive and share their most precious moments. HTC Zoe gives people the ability to shoot high-res photos that come to life in three-second snippets. These Zoes, photos and videos are then displayed in a unique way that brings the gallery to life and transforms the traditional photo gallery of still images into a motion gallery of memories. It also automatically creates integrated highlight films from each event comprised of Zoes, photos and videos set to music with professionally designed cuts, transitions and effects. These highlight videos can be remixed or set to different themes, and can be easily shared on social networks, email and other services.
To enable this innovative camera experience, HTC developed a custom camera that includes a best-in-class f/2.0 aperture lens and a breakthrough sensor with UltraPixels that gather 300 percent more light than traditional smartphone camera sensors. This new approach also delivers good low-light performance and a variety of other improvements to photos and videos.
For those of you who love taking photos of yourself, you can now do so with the ultra-wide angle front-facing camera which supports 1080p video capture. Multi-axis optical image stabilisation for both the front and rear cameras also helps ensure video footage smoother whether stationary or on the move. HTC UltraPixel camera adds many other features and effects such as enhanced 360′ panorama, time sequencing and object removal.
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The HTC One is equipped with BoomSound which features front-facing stereo speakers with a dedicated amplifier
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HTC BoomSound
The new HTC One offers the best audio experience of any mobile phone available today. HTC BoomSound with Beats™ Audio introduces for the first time on a phone, front-facing stereo speakers with a dedicated amplifier and an amazing full HD display that gives you a whole new dimension and experience listening to music, watching videos or YouTube™ clips, games and even when conversing using the handsfree speaker.
HDR recording uses advanced dual microphones and audio processing to capture clean, rich sound that is worthy of high-definition video footage. Phone calls sound great on HTC One thanks to the addition of HTC Sense Voice™, which boosts the call volume and quality in noisy environments so that conversations come through loud and clear.
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The friendly promoter girls gave us a more personal product demo
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HTC Sense TV™
Tired of switching between your phone and the remote when watching TV? Now you don’t have to as the HTC Sense TV transforms the new HTC One into an interactive program guide and remote control for most TVs, set-top boxes and receivers. Tapping the power of the cloud, Sense TV makes it simple and intuitive to see what’s on and find that favourite show.
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I think Kelly wanted to take it home. I wanted to as well.
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Metal Unibody Design
Wrapped in a zero-gap aluminium unibody and sporting a brilliant 4.7”, Full HD (1080p) screen, the new HTC One features the latest Android Jelly Bean operating system and LTE network technology to offer blazingly-fast browsing in a package that combines premium design with breakthrough build quality.
(At time of writing, I’m aware that Maxis provides LTE for the iPhone 5 but I’m sure this will be rolled out to cover other models once more LTE enabled phones are in the market).
Available in silver and black, the sleek and crafted aluminium unibody sits comfortably in the hand and showcases HTC’s unique antenna technology, which helps people achieve a crystal clear signal. The Gorilla Glass display also resists scratches and reduces glare, whilst offering incredible 468ppi resolution and rich, natural colours.
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There are a wide range of official casings and accessories made especially for the new HTC One
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There it is, a highly desirable phone and I must say that I really want to own one. The aluminium body will be a departure from the plastic body of my current and previous phone which doesn’t quite give a premium look and feel.
The new HTC One is priced at RM2,299 for 32GB storage and RM2,499 for 64GB storage in both colours, Stealth Black and Glacial Silver.
For more information, check out HTC’s website http://www.htc.com or Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/HTCMalaysia
More info at http://www.htc.com/sea/smartphones/htc-one/
Photo credits: HTC Malaysia and author’s own
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Lenovo A7000 Launched in Malaysia

[Tech & Gadgets]

Lenovo Malaysia launched their new A7000 smartphone on 12 May 2015 at GSC in 1 Utama, Petaling Jaya. The A7000 is the world’s first smartphone with Dolby Atmos audio technology, and also features a 5.5-in HD display with ultra-wide viewing angles.
The A7000 is the latest in Lenovo’s A or ‘Affordable’ series of smartphones and runs on Android 5.0 with a MediaTek True8Core™ processor with 4G LTE. The phone has a dual SIM card slot and is just 7.9mm thin and 140 grams light.

The very surprising addition to this smartphone is the Dolby Atmos technology which allows users to enjoy a rich, immersive sound experience when using headphones to play music, videos, games, and even video chats.
Sounds of people, places, things, and music become more vivid and move from all directions, including overhead, with greater clarity, richness and depth. Voices and noises have a broader range from highs to lows, with the greatest subtlety. The technology also makes playback volume more consistent across all types of content.

The A7000 comes with a large 2900mAh battery and you can even utilise the A7000 as a power bank to charge other phones from it. The smartphone supports OTG, and you can connect USB drives (with microUSB connector) for data transfer on the go.
“As the world’s first smartphone featuring all-new Dolby® Atmos™ technology, the Lenovo A7000 is built for entertainment at an affordable price range. Our partnership with Dolby delivers a responsive multimedia performer which promises a fulfilling user experience,” said Foo Mun Yee, Country Lead, Lenovo Smartphone, Malaysia.

The A7000 comes in two colours: Onyx Black or Pearl White at the recommended retail price of RM699.00
There is also an exclusive partnership between Lenovo Malaysia and Lazada Malaysia to launch and retail the Lenovo A7000 Smartphone as part of a regional initiative. This marks the first time Lenovo is doing a concurrent launch across six ASEAN countries such as Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam.
Customers may purchase the phone on Lazada.MY at a special promotion price of RM625.00
More info at http://shopap.lenovo.com/my/en/smartphones/a-series/a7000/

Photo credits: Lenovo Malaysia and author’s own

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Montblanc Brand Ambassador Hugh Jackman at Watches&Wonders Hong Kong

[Fashion]

Hugh Jackman flew in as a surprise special guest of Montblanc at the Watches&Wonders exhibition in Hong Kong in September 2016, unveilling the latest Montblanc timepieces and attending a glamorous gala dinner where he was the guest of honour.
The gala dinner was a luxurious and exclusive affair with dramatic allusion of a sky strewn with crystal stars threaded with constellations and navigational symbols enthralling guests as they made their way to long glowing tables. At the dining table, corked bottles served as placeholders and contained evocative coiled scrolls –menus that resembled timeworn treasure maps. The richly imaginative menu of four (4) courses recalled the different steps of Vasco da Gama’s trip; an Alaskan crab salad with crystal caviar and avocado cream, an oven-baked fillet of a 51-toothed fish and The Globe – Beyond 2015, a delicate dark chocolate sphere with cinnamon-infused caramel mousse, raspberry marshmallow and hot chocolate sauce.

 The host of the event was the gorgeous Kelly Cheung

 Montblanc Brand Ambassador Hugh Jackman and Montblanc CEO Jérôme Lambert

At the event, Montblanc gave a special video screening championing Da Gama’s uncharted journey that added to the evening’s entertainment, which culminated in enthusiastic calls for Mr. Jackman to make a speech.

 Montblanc Heritage Chronométrie Dual Time Vasco Da Gama Limited Edition 238

Hugh Jackman revealed the newest edition to the Montblanc Heritage Chronométrie Dual Time Vasco Da Gama series at Watches&Wonders with the Limited Edition 238. The elegant 41mm watch features an 18K red gold-finished bezel and is driven by Montblanc’s in-house developed 29.19 automatic calibre complete with dual time complication. The functional movement can be viewed through a transparent caseback that displays an image of Vasco da Gama’s ship, the São Gabriel, next to the explorer’s signature. For this limited edition, just 238 pieces have been made. Each features, exclusively, a home-time counter at 12 o’clock decorated with a representation of the night-sky in the southern hemisphere and a adorned with a 3-D miniature map of the world.

 Hugh Jackman wearing Montblanc HeritageChronométrie Dual Time Vasco Da Gama Limited Edition 238

Montblanc Brand Ambassador Hugh Jackman with Montblanc Fine Watches Trainer & Consultant, Julien Miribel at the Montblanc booth.

 Montblanc Heritage Chronométrie ExoTourbillon Minute Chronograph Vasco Da Gama Diamonds Limited Edition 25
 Montblanc Heritage Chronométrie Quantième Annuel Vasco da Gama Diamonds Limited Edition 90

At the gala, Hugh Jackman debuted the Montblanc Villeret Tourbillon Cylindrique Geosphères NightSky created to share the story of Da Gama’s spectacular method of navigation using the night skies. Made in the spirit as his legacy, with innovation, precision and determination, this highly complicated piece of haute horology became a showpiece on its release at this year’s SIHH, where it was presented in a warm red gold.
The 47mm timepiece displays a striking dial unifying a cylindrical tourbillon with two curved globes depicting the southern and northern hemispheres vividly rendered in hand-painted enamel. Home time is shown on a sub-dial reminiscent of a compass rose at 6 o’clock and operated by a small corrector in the case, while local time is indicated via two open-worked hands, adjustable using a large pusher at 4 o’clock. For Watches&Wonders, Montblanc debuted the timepiece in a limited edition 18K of which just 18 pieces were created.
More info at www.montblanc.com
Images courtesy of Montblanc Malaysia.

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Huawei Mate 8 Launched in Malaysia

[Tech & Gadgets]

Headed over to the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre on 8 March 2016 for the launch of the Huawei Mate 8 along with a new line of products – MediaPad M2 10.0, Huawei Watch Jewel and Elegant, and the release of the Nexus 6P Gold Edition.
“We are excited to launch the latest flagship Huawei Mate 8 today as we believe the Mate 8 will fit into the lifestyles of many individuals here.  We are excited to be one of the first in the region to bring the Mate 8 to Malaysia,” said Mr. Zhu Yong Gang, Country Director, Consumer Business Group, Huawei Technologies Malaysia when addressing the media at the launch of the Huawei Mate 8 this afternoon.
“In line with our continuous commitment to meet the evolving needs of consumers, the Huawei Mate 8 redefines design and experience, bringing about a new style for young business elites. It is inspired to assist a new generation of business individuals and entrepreneurs sync work with leisure. It is with that reason that several esteemed Malaysian entrepreneurs are here with us today. It marks our commitment not only for the premium segment, but also for each individual category of consumers, providing a premium touch, feel, look, and experience,” he added.

The Huawei Mate 8 runs on the latest Kirin 950 chip – the best processor available to date. The Kirin 950 enables the Mate 8 to reach high performance levels without running out of battery quickly, and is able to last over 2 days on a full charge on normal usage. The smartphone is equipped with a 4,000mAh battery and quick charging technology, and can provide a whole day of usage with just 30 minutes of charging time.
The Huawei Mate 8 come with a new generation of fingerprint touch technology which can be used for keeping files secure, locking applications, turning off alarms, taking photos and answering calls. With the firewall provided by the Kirin 950s TrustZone and secure OS, the Mate 8 protects all data from thievery, even if the phone is stolen.
The Huawei Mate 8 comes with the Super Hands-Free 3.0 technology, enabling users to have hands-free conversation with the phone from 3 meters away. The technology is also able to identify sound sources from specific directions, allowing users to play back recordings and listen in on all conversations surrounding the Mate 8 accurately, a feature that might be useful for business users.

The Huawei Mate 8’s camera has the industry’s greatest image-stabilization angle at 1.5° OIS, allowing better photos to be taken even with shaking hands or within a moving environment. For the business users, the Mate 8 can automatically recognize and save information on scanned business cards to the phone’s contact list. The Mate 8 allows users to use their knuckles as an alternative input, such as take screenshots, start or stop screen recordings, and even open apps through knuckle gestures.
“Today’s launch not only marks the availability of the award-winning Huawei Mate 8, but we are also proud to showcase our enhanced portfolio and latest product offerings to meet our consumers’ needs and wants,”Mr. Zhu elaborated.
The Huawei Mate 8 will be available in all four (4) colours through the two variants, with the Standard variant offering moonlight silver and space grey, and the Premium variant offering champagne gold and mocha brown.

Huawei Women’s Smartwatch
Following the successful launch of the Huawei Watch last year, Huawei announced a new pair of Android Wear smartwatches catered for the ladies, the Jewel and Elegant. Both smartwatches are bedazzled with rose gold-plated cases, premier leather thin wristbands, and a sleek, curvy design showcased underneath a round, Sapphire crystal watch face. The Elegant sports a rose-gold plated body while the Jewel has a rose-gold casing with 68 Swarovski Zirconia embedded. The models offer a softer, more feminine aesthetic compared to Huawei’s first smartwatch, and both smartwatches are 44mm in diameter, making it 2mm longer than its predecessor.
Huawei Watch has recently updated their software with Android 6.0 Marshmallow, featuring a refined Google Now app and notification card and a new reminder app, so users can now easily track their daily plans and manage their days accordingly. Users can also now make or answer calls through the watch, as well as use the speaker to play offline music.

MediaPad M2 10.0
The Huawei MediaPad M2 10.0 is a premium tablet focused on sharing audios and videos for the enjoyment of families. Equipped with 4 speakers and 4 power amplifiers as well as configured by world-famous audio company Harman Kardon, it offers the highest sound quality compared to other tablets in the market. The M2 also comes with the M-Pen that enables writing, drawing, and formula identification to support entertainment, students’ homework tutoring, and basic home or office tasks. It is also the world’s first Android tablet that supports press fingerprint identification, and stores up to 5 fingerprints.

Nexus 6P Gold Edition
The Nexus 6P was one of the top rated smartphones launched in 2015, and Huawei continues its collaboration with Google as it launches the new Nexus 6P Gold Edition. This special edition Nexus 6P offers a stylish option for people who want a more luxurious-looking device.

The Huawei Mate 8 will be available in stores on the 11th of March, and also offered through telco partners Maxis, Celcom, Digi and RedOne. The phone can also be purchased through VMall (www.vmall.my) and online partner Lazada (www.lazada.com.my), with sales starting on the 8th of March. The Nexus 6P Gold Edition is available for sale from mid-March, while the MediaPad M2 10.0 and Huawei Watch Jewel and Elegant release dates are set on the end of April.

The retail recommended prices for the devices:
·        Huawei Mate 8 Standard variant in Moonlight Silver and Space Grey– RM2,099
·        Huawei Mate 8 Premium variant in Champagne Gold and Mocha Brown – RM2,399
·        Nexus 6P Gold Edition – RM2,698
·        Huawei MediaPad M2 10.0
o   Silver 2GB + 16GB, WiFi – RM1,299
o   Silver 2GB + 16GB, LTE with M-Pen – RM1,599
o   Gold 3GB + 64GB, WiFi with M-Pen and Case – RM1,699
o   Gold 3GB + 64GB, LTE with M-Pen and Case – RM1,999
·        Huawei Watch Jewel – RM2,299
·        Huawei Watch Elegant – RM1,999

For more information on Huawei Malaysia and Huawei Mate 8, visit www.facebook.com/HuaweiDeviceMY

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Editor’s Note – September 2022

Carlsberg x Liverpool FC LEGENDary Football Party

In its recent Carlsberg x Liverpool FC LEGENDary Experience held at Plaza Arkadia, Carlsberg once again excelled at entertaining and celebrating football fans during an exhilarating football viewing party and autograph session with two Liverpool FC legends. Carlsberg had gone above and beyond to fulfil its promise of bringing the heart and spirit of football to life, cementing its position as the beer of choice for every football occasion.
Carlsberg and Liverpool FC, who have had the longest-running partnership in Premier League history since 1992, celebrate the amazing energy of sports and togetherness in conjunction with the 30th anniversary of the collaboration. This historic occasion was celebrated all over the world, and local Liverpool FC supporters in Malaysia were gleeful with the release of the collectible Carlsberg Liverpool FC Legends Edition exclusive 6-can pack, which featured the jersey designs of six of the club’s incredible icons: Ian Rush, John Barnes, Sami Hyypiä, Robbie Fowler, Jamie Carragher, and Luis Garcia.
Guests were treated to a variety of activities as part of the Carlsberg x Liverpool FC LEGENDary Experience, including face painting, airbrush tattoos, sticker tattoos of the club’s logos, and action shots at the 360 spin-cam. Visitors also displayed their nimble footwork at the “Golden Glove” and “Kicks of Glory” game stations, where victors received a money-can’t-buy jersey and a 6-can unique Carlsberg Liverpool FC Legends Edition pack. The highlight of the evening was watching the Liverpool FC vs. Bournemouth FC match live with the team’s legends, Sami Hyypiä and John Barnes, who once controlled the cheers of spectators around the field personally.

“There is something very special about the bonds of football and Carlsberg. Leveraging on Carlsberg’s global partnership with Liverpool FC, we, here in Malaysia, have been looking forward to celebrating our commitment to football fans by providing the best experiences for every football occasion. Through the Carlsberg Liverpool FC Legends Edition cans, the special appearances of two living legends of the game and with today’s stadium-replica live football viewing showcase, we are confident that we continue to animate the passion of football, especially for Liverpool FC fans,”
Stefano Clini, Managing Director of Carlsberg Malaysia
The Plaza Arkadia courtyard, which glistened in a sea of red, was decorated in the style of an Anfield matchday, complete with game booths and throngs of Liverpool FC supporters enjoying cans of Carlsberg Danish Pilsner and Carlsberg Smooth Draught.
The dynamic vocals of SAB Acappella & Friends kicked off the event, which quickly moved into high gear. As football legends Sami Hyypiä and John Barnes approached the stage, there was an eruption of clapping and cheers. Before the first match of the evening began, Carlsberg-cum-Liverpool FC fans were treated to a meet & greet and photo opportunity with the LEGENDS.

With engaging activities, entertainment, and sporting events, Carlsberg continues to provide the greatest viewing events in town. From 28 August to 3 September 2022, football fans can experience the setup at Plaza Arkadia, which includes the overall décor, game stations, and replica locker room.
Liverpool FC fans can stand a chance to win the limited-edition keepsake cans when you purchase six full pints, 10 half pints, two buckets or one tower at your favourite bar or when you spend a minimum of RM20 at convenience stores or RM30 at super and hypermarkets and 99 Speedmart on either Carlsberg Danish Pilsner, Carlsberg Smooth Draught or Carlsberg Special Brew.
Consumers can also get the set for free when they buy RM300 worth of Carlsberg Danish Pilsner, Carlsberg Smooth Draught or Carlsberg Special Brew at super and hypermarkets and 99 Speedmart, official Carlsberg’s online stores.

Photo credits: Carlsberg Malaysia and author’s own
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News Update: Glenmorangie Highlander, Honda CRV, and Nissan Fashionably KL

[News]
Glenmorangie Highlander Party

Glenmorangie’s first Orange-themed party this year took off at The Hill in Damansara Heights on 28 March 2013 with the brand celebrating a theme that close to its heart – the Scottish Highlands, the birthplace of Glenmorangie single malt whisky.
Single malt whisky fans, local personalities and fans of Glenmorangie were treated to a bespoke party and a trademark Glenmorangie experience, as everyone at The Hill became Highlanders for a night and spoke in Scottish accents. Football stars were no exception, as former Liverpool star Dietmar Hamann and former Chelsea captain Dennis Wise also joined in the fun.
Body painted Glenmorangie models sporting kilts added some sexiness the night, while a performance featuring Deer Society’s DJ Alex Asquared and a live bagpipe band brought great Scottish cheer to The Hill. Will Quah, who was the host of the evening, also handed out a bottle of Glenmorangie Original to guests who had the most authentic impersonation of the Scottish accent.
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Look out for Glenmorangie Wednesdays at The Hill, a month-long promotion featuring four different nights of Glenmorangie-approved entertainment, which will happen every Wednesday night throughout the month of April:

COMEDY NIGHT featuring Douglas Lim
Date: 3 April 2013
Tickets: RM58 each, includes 2 complementary glasses of Glenmorangie Original

LIVE MUSIC NIGHT
Date: 10 April 2013
Tickets: RM58 each, includes 2 complementary glasses of Glenmorangie Original

GAMES NIGHT
Date: 17 April 2013
Tickets: RM98, includes 4 hours of free flowing drinks and a total of RM2,000 worth of prizes to be won

GLENMORANGIE TASTING AND DINNER with Will Quah
Date: 24 April 2013
Tickets: RM158 each, includes a premium 4-course dinner
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More info at  https://www.facebook.com/GlenmorangieMalaysia
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Honda’s 4th Generation CR-V Launch
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Honda Malaysia launched the 4th generation CR-V which is the first CKD model launch for Honda Malaysia in 2013 on 5 March 2013.
The 4th generation CR-V was conceptualized as a “Premium Smart SUV” and is powered by an improved 2.0-L i-VTEC engine which provides 155 PS and 190 Nm at 4,300 rpm matched with 5-speed Automatic Transmission for well-balanced performance and fuel efficiency.
The CR-V is equipped with the ECON button which promotes fuel efficient driving with the push of a button while the Eco Assist guides the driver on efficient driving styles through the illuminated ring color on the meter cluster that changes from white to green for uneconomical driving to fuel efficient driving respectively. The All-New CR-V also provides a smoother and quieter experience with improvements in its reduction in noise, vibration and harshness (NVH).
The All-New CR-V is slightly smaller in size compared to its predecessor and sports 17-inch alloy wheels, adding to its more aggressive stance. The bolder look is also courtesy of deeper sculpting of body lines and highlighted front grille.
The class-leading interior of this SUV has been extended in the All-New CR-V through smart reengineering of the seat configuration. The big classy cabin is even more spacious with better legroom now while giving driver and passengers a high view point. Enhancing comfort for rear passengers is the new Rear Air Conditioner Vent. The cargo area can be increased dramatically from 589 liters to 1,146 liters and is able to fit two mountain bikes side by side, through the One-Motion Rear Foldable Seats.
The All-New CR-V boasts a well-balanced synergy of efficiency, functionality and confidence that comes from combining upscale sedan-like drive and fuel economy of a car, with the practicality and sense of security of a SUV.
The All-New CR-V is available in 5 colours of Twilight Blue Metallic, Taffeta White, Alabaster Silver Metallic, Crystal Black Pearl and Polished Metal Metallic and is priced at RM148,800.00 on-the-road with insurance.
Honda Malaysia offers a 5-year warranty with unlimited mileage and a new service interval of 10,000 km to provide the best ownership experience for the 4th generation CR-V. In addition, All-New CR-V owners are entitled to 6 times free labour services alternating with paid services. Supporting this new service package are 62 Honda dealerships nationwide.
More info at www.honda.com.my
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Nissan Fashionably KL
Nissan Fashionably Kl celebrated art, fashion and music in collaboration with Publika’s Mapkl Arts Festival 2013 kicking off on the evening of 5th March 2013 where invited guests experienced the entire Nissan Fashionably KL festival starting from an art exhibition reception at White Box featuring a fashion-oriented art installation, followed by an exclusive fashion showcase at Black Box by local designers Syomir Izwa, Zleqha and Allien Gan, then on to The Square for entertainment by local DJ Chris Olivia.
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The zero-emission Nissan LEAF is a 100% electric vehicle which offers a unique driving experience because it has no internal combustion petrol or diesel engine and is powered entirely by an electric motor.
The Nissan X-GEAR combines aggressive SUV-inspired exterior styling with class-leading versatility and spaciousness. It remains practical with 60:40 split-fold rear seats that double the available luggage space from 383L to 769L when folded down. Look out for my test-drive review coming soon!
Inside Black Box in MAP KL for the fashion show. That’s Miss World Malaysia Chloe Chen (R) with her colleague.

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Over the course of the weekend, there were plenty of activities in the form of the art exhibition at White Box, and open musical performances at The Square by local names such as Nadhira, SonaOne, BeatNation, Caprice, H3, Meliha Faisal and more.
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On a separate note, Nissan Motor Co., Ltd, Japan recently announced a global recall for the Nissan Cube, X-Trail, Maxima and Teana that were manufactured from August 2000 to January 2004 involving a total of 480,000 units of these vehicles. This recall was to check and, if necessary, replace the potential faulty front passenger air bag inflator for these models.
Edaran Tan Chong Motor (ETCM), the sole distributor and assembler of Nissan vehicles in Malaysia confirms that only four (4) CBU (Completely Build-Up) units of Nissan X-TRAIL in Malaysia were affected by this global recall. The CKD (Complete Knocked-Down) units were not affected by this recall.
More info at http://www.nissan.com.my/
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Launch of Project L.I.V.E (Life Is Vert Energetic)
Wong Yu Jin
HealthPro, a company that specializes in corporate wellness programs, launched Project L.I.V.E. (which stands for “Life Is Very Energetic”) today together with IJN Foundation at the Wellness Recipe Café in Petaling Jaya on 25 MArch 2013.
“There is a need to change the status quo of Malaysian health. We are now considered the fattest country in Southeast Asia. Heart disease and other lifestyle-related illnesses are on a steady rise”, says Wong Yu Jin, the Managing Director and founder of HealthPro. A former lawyer, Yu Jin is known as the “Wellness Guru”, having trained top CEOs, celebrities, models and beauty queens.
With the experience of training more than 5000 people, Yu Jin has collected invaluable tips and tricks that he wants to share with the Malaysian public. One of the ways is the introduction of the LXG (L.I.V.E. Exercise Guide) – a guide consisting of 30 different exercises grouped into 10 workout routines that has been tried and tested to get maximum results in minimum time. The LXG, which also features Miss Universe Malaysia 2012 Kimberley Leggett working out with Yu Jin, is suitable for those who are starting off as well as those who want to take their workouts to a new level.
There will also be the L.I.V.E. Talk Series, which will be given by Yu Jin absolutely free of charge to those interested, as well as advice on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube. “We believe that our efforts are a stepping stone that will branch out to bigger ideas that will reach an even wider audience. When someone embraces a healthy lifestyle, there is a rippling effect just like how a tiny drop of water in an ocean creates a ripple. They will inspire and influence the people around them to also adopt change,” said Yu Jin.
All profits from Project L.I.V.E. will be channeled to IJN Foundation to help the less fortunate. More info at http://www.healthpro.com.my/projectlive.
Yu Jin with his celebrity friends
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Starhill Gallery Luxury Channel Launch

Starhill Gallery launch it’s Luxury Channel with a special appearance by Hollywood star Kimora Lee Simmons at Shook! on 25 March 2013.
The Starhill Gallery Luxury Channel is a new multimedia platform that provides compelling, high quality videos, trendsetting online editorials and showcases an outstanding range of high-end retail products that are available in Starhill Gallery. The audience will have access to a full range of expertise and be able to experience all that Starhill Gallery has to offer from their own homes.

The online channel will feature five different segments which will broadcast its own programmes, including ‘Fashion’, ‘Watches & Jewellery’, ‘Health & Beauty’, ‘Dining’ and ‘Home & Living’. All the latest collections, fashion shows and events will feature on the ‘Fashion’ channel while more than 120 different watch and jewellery brands, which are located on Adorn floor, will be showcased on the ‘Watches and Jewellery’ channel. The city’s finest dining options are discoverable on the ‘Dining’ channel or how best to have an indulgent experience when at Starhill Gallery with the ‘Health & Beauty’ channel. The ‘Home & Living’ channel will give an insight and tips on how one’s home and lifestyle can be spiced up.
The sexy shoe and bag designer Ung Yiu Lin was also there
Starhill Gallery’s exclusive channel will be updated regularly with the latest videos, including exclusive interviews and behind the scene footage of fashion shows from Starhill Gallery Fashion Week, and can be viewed at http://www.starhillgallery.com/sglc/.
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Photo credits: Glenmorangie Malaysia, Honda Malaysia, Starhill, HealthPro Solutions, and author’s own
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Hyatt Regency Bali Relaunched After a Five Year Facelift

[Travel & Hospitality News]

The 45-year-old Bali Hyatt reopened on 20 December 2018 as the “Hyatt Regency Bali” after a five (5) year refurbishment. When the original Bali Hyatt opened in November 1973, it was the very first international hotel to open on the island and a pioneer of Indonesian-style architecture.
Once considered the most luxurious and stylish hotel on the island the hotel had gone through multi-million dollar extensive upgrade and modernisation. Hyatt Regency Bali is aiming to evoke the same sense of awe and admiration in its guests as it did 45 years ago, while maintaining the much-loved Balinese aesthetic of the original.
“After this period of extensive renovations, we are thrilled to be able to reveal a new and improved Hyatt Regency Bali to the public,” says General Manager Zulki Othman. “We look forward to greeting new guests and also welcoming back our former guests who we believe will appreciate that we’ve managed to upgrade all the structures and facilities while retaining the hotel’s original Balinese design and spirit. We are truly blessed to occupy this incredible beachfront location surrounded by lush greenery and it’s great that it can be fully enjoyed once again.”

Hyatt Regency Bali Spa pool

The resort is spread across nine (9) hectares of land, and is located just 22-minutes away from Ngurah Rai International Airport. Hyatt Regency Bali is one of the largest hotel developments in Sanur, known for its gardens originally designed by the famed tropical landscape artist Made Wijaya. Featuring over 500 plant species, the hotel gardens have graced the pages of multiple landscaping and coffee-table books and during the renovations, all mature trees and as much of the plants as possible were preserved. Hyatt Regency Bali also fronts onto 500 metres of beach — among the widest beachfront in Sanur.

Batik stamps at Regency Club Lounge
The overall design mimics the style of Bali Hyatt. The lobby for example, is almost identical with Bali Hyatt’s with its terracotta tiles, chandelier, statues, and stairs. Throughout the hotel, old design elements of Bali Hyatt are integrated in fresher, new setting – carvings placed behind check-in desk, batik stamps from old guestrooms are repurposed into artwork at Regency Club Lounge.

Hyatt Regency Bali King Bed Room
Hyatt Regency Bali houses 363 rooms spanning 27-81 square metres, each featuring a private balcony overlooking the lush gardens or Indian Ocean. The hotel further includes 39 one-bedroom suites with spacious balconies up to 70 square metres in size. With a separate living room that can accommodate an extra bed and an additional powder room with a shower, the suites are ideal for families and groups. In addition, booking a suite include access to the Regency Club Lounge offering a private concierge and complimentary breakfast, all-day snacks and evening cocktails and canapés.

          Outdoor balcony
Hyatt Regency Bali Standard Twin Room

Hyatt Regency Bali showcases three open-air drinking and dining venues, each aiming to offer authentic, competitively priced food and drink utilising the freshest and finest ingredients available, local and organic wherever possible. The entire resort aims to minimise its environmental impact and the venues use minimal plastic, opting instead for paper straws, recyclable coffee cups and bags made from bagasse (sugar-cane pulp).
Omang Omang is the hotel’s all-day dining space offering comfort food from Indonesia and around the world. Alongside views of the gardens and pools, Omang Omang will serve a buffet breakfast, resort favourites all day and charcoal-grilled seafood and prime cuts come evening, as well as what it considers the best Es Campur (coconut shaved ice) in town.
Pizzaria is a casual drinking and dining venue overlooking Sanur Beach, and specialises in pasta cooked a la minute, pizza baked in wood-fired ovens, frozen cocktails and Italian sodas muddled with fresh fruit and herbs.
Against a backdrop of rindik (Balinese music) musicians by day and piano accompaniment by night, Piano Lounge is ideal for a quiet drink, casual business meeting or social gathering. Continuing the Indonesia tradition of arisan, where ladies congregate, a signature afternoon tea will be served alongside barista-made Indonesian coffee and loose-leaf tea.

Lush suite balcony
Lobby garden
Function room in classroom arrangement

Hyatt Regency Bali children pool
Hyatt Regency Bali offers three swimming pools right by the beach: a Lap Pool; a shallow Children’s Pool; and a Main Pool surrounded by bounteous overhanging bougainvillea where guests can swim through a replica of Goa Gajah carved out of volcanic rock.
Meanwhile, guests will feel their stresses slip away even before they arrive at Shankha Spa, as they approach the venue via open-air walkways surrounded by ponds. The vast complex comprises ten spa suites — each a mini spa within itself — housing a treatment area, relaxation area, shower, changing room, vanity area and private garden with an outdoor whirlpool ideal for watsu (aquatic massage) treatments.
There’s also a second lap pool with an open-air Juice Bar where guests can replenish lost electrolytes after an intense workout; a Yoga Studio; outdoor hot and cold plunge pools; and a relaxation area.
For the young ones, Hyatt Regency Bali offers Camp Hyatt which houses an outdoor playground, an indoor playroom filled with toys and games, and a programme designed to both entertain and educate with Balinese arts, crafts and cultural activities.
Shankha Spa and Camp Hyatt are due to open on 1st quarter of 2019.
For more info, head over to https://www.facebook.com/HyattRegencyBali/
Visuals and video courtesy of Hyatt Regency Bali.
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[ADV]
It was a bright and very sunny Saturday morning when I brought over my Malaysia’s Hottest Bloggers over to Shah Alam for the MHB Defensive Driving Course Powered by Chevrolet.
Defensive driving? Yes it’s very important especially these days to have the skills and knowledge so you know instinctively how to react in an emergency.
Here’s a little peak of what we did.

Why a Defensive Driving Course? Well take a look at these statistics!
Stats from http://www.miros.gov.my/

Scary right? Well we need to equip ourselves with the skills to avoid, react and manoeuvre safely thereby minimizing the propensity for collisions and accidents.

First up was the indoor/ theory session which we learned some important do’s and don’t on the road

Then it was on to the practical session in a vacant car park lot which was set up for a variety of techniques.
The Cruze’s ‘Electronic Stability Control’ and ‘Traction Control’ were turned OFF to enable the car to skid (so we could learn how to control a skid)
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Some basic knowledge on how to maintain a car. You’d be surprised at how many of the girls had no idea what was under the hood.
Teaching the girls about tire wear and reading the tire thread
Then it was time to learn some defensive driving skills!
First up was how to control the steering during the slalom exercise
Then how to control the car during an emergency ABS braking situation
And then how to recover and manoeuvre during a skid

The Chevrolet Cruze comes with a variety of features:
Exterior
1. Dynamic design with a wide track, long wheelbase and crisp sculpted shoulder lines.
2. Dual Bezel Design Headlamps.
3. Split-Design Tail Lamps.
4. Large 6.5J x 40.64 cm Alloy wheels.
5. Available in 7 colours.

Interior
1. Three-Gauge Instrument Cluster: Centre-positioned Driver Information Display sets out digital text information like odometer, average fuel, fuel consumption and average speed. Plus its ice-blue dash illumination heightens cabin sophistication and improves instrumentation and easy reading.
2. Three Spoke Steering Wheel: Thicker rim design enhances grip and feel while driving.
3. Integrated Centre Stack: Advanced integrated centre panel with graphic infotainment display, radio, HVAC controls and a 6-CD changer with MP3 compatibility.

Comfort and Convenience
1. Rain Sensing Wipers: Automatically starts when precipitation is detected and adjusts wiper speed based on rain intensity.
2. Smart Screen: A graphic information display on which numerous settings are possible. It also detects outside temperature and shows date and time.

Safety
1. Dual Airbags: Equipped with dual front airbags.
2. Anti Lock Braking System (ABS): Prevents the wheels from locking while braking and allows the driver to maintain steering control, especially on slippery surfaces.
3. All Wheel Disc Brake: Provides excellent stopping and stable braking capability, reduces brake noise and enhances pedal feel.
4. Front and Rear Crumple Zone: Maximises your safety by absorbing the energy from an impact.

Price:
Cruze 1.8LT = RM98,716.40 (without insurance)
Cruze 1.8LT Special Edition = RM116,716.40 (without insurance)

More info on Chevrolet at http://www.chevrolet.com.my
More photos on the MHB Facebook page – http://www.facebook.com/myhotbloggers
More info on ASIA ADVANCED DRIVING ACADEMY – http://www.aadasb.com/

Thank you Chevrolet

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Lenovo Vibe Shot Launched in Malaysia

[Tech & Gadgets]

Headed over to Pullman Kuala Lumpur Bangsar on 18 August 2015 for the launch of Lenovo’s latest smartphone – the Lenovo VIBE Shot. This smartphone that promises the best of both worlds. In today’s world where a lot of people like to snap photos with their smartphone, the challenge has always been how to fit a good camera into something so small and thin as a smartphone. Well Lenovo has solved that problem with the Vibe Shot which has a 16MP main camera and 5.0” Full HD screen all in one premium smartphone.

With me that morning was my social media influencer Leng Sean (yes she is Leng Yein’s sister) who was nice enough to help model the camera for me as well.

I can see why she’s so popular as she’s really good at what she does!

The VIBE Shot features a dedicated shutter button just like conventional cameras. It can be used to instantly activate the camera function without you having to activate the camera app first which its on-board infrared auto-focusing (AF)  system is twice as fast as a conventional autofocus*. This phone breaks new ground by having a tri-color LED flash which gives more realistic skin tones – a world’s first for smartphones.
The 16:9 back illuminated or backside illumination (BSI) sensor provides superior low-light performance and clarity for shooting in dark settings, and there’s also optical image stabilization (OIS) tech to reduce blurring – something which is very useful if you have shaky hands.
There’s also a dedicated switch were you can easily toggle between the camera’s Auto and Pro modes. The Auto Mode helps amateur photographers with the Smart Composition function, incorporating automatic scene detection and an onscreen “point & shoot” guidance essentially guiding you where to place your subject. Especially good for those who don’t know the rule of thirds.
The Pro mode gives you manual controls such as aperture, shutter speed and ISO settings, something which advanced and professional photographer are sure to appreciate. For those of you who love taking selfies, there’s the panoramic selfie feature that lets you take three selfies and turn them into one that includes more people.

The VIBE Shot has a Qualcomm Snapdragon 615 processor on top of an octa-core chip which is engineered for multitasking while remaining extremely power efficient at the same time. Lenovo is also pretty generous with RAM and storage for this phone, putting in 3GB of RAM, and 32GB of on-board storage, expandable up to 128GB through a microSD card slot. The phone is also 4G / LTE capable.
Besides picture perfect images, the VIBE Shot is one stylish phone as it is built using premium materials including a full aluminum outer frame, plus front and back Corning Gorilla glass. The VIBE Shot is only 7.6mm thick, making it one of the thinnest smartphones in the market.

“The VIBE Shot is a stylish yet powerful smartphone that is perfect for people who want both a phone and a camera. This latest product underlines our sustained commitment and effort to innovation, by giving people what they need, in a compelling design,” said Foo Mun Yee, Country Lead, Lenovo Smartphone, Malaysia.
The Lenovo VIBE Shot will be made available in Carmine Red and Graphite Grey at all Lenovo Smartphone Retail Partners from 18 August 2015 onwards at the recommended retail price of RM1,399.00

Technical Specifications

DESCRIPTION
LENOVO VIBE SHOT

Processor

Qualcomm® Snapdragon™ 1.7GHz 64-bit octa core processor

Operating System

Android™ 5.1, Lollipop

Dimensions (HxWxT)

142.7 mm x 70.0 mm x 7.6 mm

Weight

145 g (0.32 lb)

Battery

Up to 3000mAh (Li-polymer), embedded

Battery Life

Active Standby: Up to 19 days (3G) & 17 days (4G)
Talk Time: Up to 30 hours (2G) & 21 hours (3G)

Integrated Camera

Rear: 16 MP auto-focus with tricolor flash
Front: 8 MP fixed-focus

Sound

1x Speaker, 3.5 mm Jack

Ports

Micro-USB
microSD

Memory

System Memory: 3GB RAM
Built-in Storage: 32GB ROM
microSD Storage: Up to 128GB

Connectivity/Radios

4G Network: LTE FDD Band 1/3/7/8/20 | LTE TDD Band 40
3G Network: 850/900/1900/2100 Mhz
2G Network: GSM 850/900/1800/1900 MHz
Speed: LTE (4G) 150Mbps (DL) / 50Mbps (UL)
WLAN: WiFi 802.11 b/g/n, WiFi hotspot
Bluetooth® 4.1 LE
FM receiver
A-GPS support

Display

Size: 5″ (1920 x 1080)
Type: Multitouch Capacitive, Full HD, IPS @ >400ppi

Color

Carmine Red
Pearl White
Graphite Grey

SIM

Dual: Micro

Sensors

Gravitation sensor
Proximity sensor
Light sensor
E-Compass sensor

Now here are some photos that we took using the Lenovo Vibe Shot.
Click on the individual photo to enlarge.

Pretty darn good…

More info at http://shopap.lenovo.com/my/en/smartphones/vibe/vibe-shot/#tab-features

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Panasonic LED Bulb Launch & Miss Universe Malaysia 2013 Pool Party

[Event]
Went over to the Le Meridien Hotel KL Sentral on 29 November 2012 with MHB’s Chammaine Tan for the launch of Panasonic’s LED light bulbs. Now LED light bulbs are not something very new and have been around in our market for a while now. The only thing stopping the masses from acquiring them is the price. However Panasonic was about to address that issue and make LED lighting technology affordable to more consumers and at the same time being long lasting, energy saving and environmentally friendly
The were light refreshments served before the official launch and I must say that the choice of venue was very good as the Le Meridien Hotel had coffee and snack bars outside each of their conference rooms. There was the usual coffee but served from a coffee machine but the impressive bit was large fridges stocked up with fruit juices and even yoghurt!
Anyway back to the launch.
My partner for the afternoon – MHB’s Chammaine Tan
The new Panasonic LED light bulbs
See the different colours and brightness?
Panasonic LED bulbs are developed with two (2) key LED technologies, “Optical Design technology” and “High Heat Dissipation technology”. Optical technology spreads light using a combination of LED packages in a circular pattern inside a large globe and a double reflector structure. Whereas, the “high heat dissipation technology is a circuit arranged above the LED packages in order for the circuit parts to be away from the body where the heat converges.
Err…what does that mean? It means the bulbs are cooler and you won’t burn yourself as you would with an incandescent bulb that has been turned on for a while.
LED technology is also extremely energy efficient and can save approximately 80% energy as compared to incandescent light bulb and has a lifespan of 40 years (based on 2.7 times usage a day), which is approximately 40 times longer than a traditional light bulb.
Imagine not having to change any lightbulbs for 40 years!!!
It is also eco friendly and boasts zero mercury (compact flourescent bulbs contain mercury which is poisonous to the human body). Panasonic claims that their innovative range of LED bulbs are among the industries most energy-efficient, lightest and smallest.
“We are seeing increased demand for LED lamps in Malaysia due to government new policies of banning incandescent light bulbs and consumers are also becoming more environmentally conscious. Therefore consumers gain cost savings while causing less impact on the environment with our lighting choices.” said Jeff Lee, Managing Director of Panasonic Malaysia.
Capsule type
Capsule type provides top class brightness with 160° beam angle of wide coverage light distribution. Reflector type offers focus lighting with focus beam angle of 120 degrees, suitable for spot lighting. Both types of bulbs are covered by cut glare glass so that consumers can enjoy more soft and gentle light.
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Candle type
The candle type LED bulb equipped with 4W light brightness is equivalent to a 15W traditional candle lamp. The high efficiency technology realizes the ultra long life span, up to 15 000 hours.
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Halogen type
New series Halogen LED bulb provides a variety of lighting options for consumers and the new range comes with voltages of 4W, 6W and 7W, available in two (2) warm colour choices.
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Clear glass type – looks like a traditional bulb but with terrific energy savings and lasts 40 times as long!
The gold winning LED modern classic type provides sparkling light, just like a clear incandescent light bulb. Using Panasonic’s proprietary light emission and diffusion technologies, modern classic type LED light bulb has achieved virtually the same size, shape, light source position, light colour, brightness and light distribution as incandescent light bulbs but uses less energy and lasts longer!
The modern classic type LED bulb obtained Gold awards at the 2012 Good Design Awards in Japan and at the 2012 iF Product Design award in Germany, and also winning gold awards at 3 competitive design contests in the U.S., Germany and Japan. The international acclaim received by the bulb also includes the 2012 universal design award in Germany and the 2012 red dot design award also in Germany.
Some eye candy for my male readers
A bit more eye candy – the pretty Jessica How. Ok now back to business.
LED Table Lamp SQ LD520 S
LED Table Lamp SQ LD200 A
Cool designs – who says study/ table lamps must be boring? And no in case you were wondering, the pretty model does not come with the lamp.
The Panasonic LED table lamp is gentler and easier on the eyes to cater for the long periods of reading or working on the computer.
The new LED table lamps are covered with a special anti-glare panel. The anti-glare panel distributes the light efficiently and reduces glare. The Panasonic LED lamp is less harsh on the eyes and produces UV-free and flicker free light.
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The great thing about LED is that the bulbs are not scorching hot.
Beautiful girls light up my life…and LED bulbs too!
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So yes although the initial cost of a LED bulb (starting from around RM70.00) might seem a little high, the cost savings from a lower electricity bill and not having to replace the bulb for many years more than makes up for it and makes it more cost-efficient in the long run. Guess it’s time to change the light bulbs in my house to the new LED ones when they burn out. It just makes sense to do so…
More info on Panasonic LED bulbs at https://www.facebook.com/mypanasonic
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Miss Universe Malaysia 2013 Pool Party
The following day (30 November 2012) I headed over to The Pool along Jalan Ampang for the Miss Universe Malaysia 2013 Preview Party to support MHB’s Chammaine Tan and also my friend Natalia Ng who were both finalists in the pageant.
Drinks for the night – Kronenbourg 1664
MHB’s Chammaine Tan
Natalia Ng

No.2 – Carey Ng won this subsidiary title
Subscribe to my public updates at https://www.facebook.com/timchewkc
‘Like’ my Facebook page to view loads of content – https://www.facebook.com/timchew1311
Photo credits: Panasonic Malaysia and author’s own
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Sony Xperia Z1 Launch

[News]
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Sony Mobile Communications (“Sony Mobile”) introduced the new Xperia Z1 on 5 September 2013 in Kuala Lumpur. The Xperia Z1 is a premium waterproof smartphone that combines the very best of Sony’s technology, entertainment and wide range of companion products to provide consumers with a unique and groundbreaking camera experience.
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The elegant 5” Xperia Z1 is the latest addition to Sony’s premium Z series of products and brings Sony’s proven world-class technologies to the smartphone such as Sony’s award-winning “G Lens” with a 27mm wide angle and bright F2.0 aperture, custom made large 1/2.3-type CMOS image sensor Exmor RS for mobile with 20.7MP and a BIONZ for mobile image processing engine.

The combination of these technologies delivers the same level of quality and performance as a conventional compact digital camera in a slim, waterproof smartphone. Indeed, independent testing has confirmed that Xperia Z1 provides the best overall image quality of all leading smartphones.

This means that Xperia Z1 captures beautiful, sharp and bright images even in lowlight conditions. High shutter speeds and 3x clear image zoom also prevents shots from being blurred while enabling them to be captured at distance.

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Xperia Z1 takes the conventional camera experience to a whole new level by including an innovative set of Xperia Camera Applications that deliver new experiences. Applications at launch include:
• Social live: Broadcast precious moments live from Xperia Z1 to Facebook and get your friends’ comments right on your screen.
• Info-eye™: Innovative visual search function that provides related information on landmarks and on items such as books or wine simply by capturing them with the camera.
• Timeshift Burst: Capture the perfect shot every time – Xperia Z1 takes 61 images in 2 seconds – a second before and after pressing the shutter – so you can scroll back and forth to find the perfect image.
• AR effect: Overlay a selection of fun, customisable animations to create pictures using Sony’s SmartARTM augmented reality technology.
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Esthetics wise, the Xperia Z1 combines Sony’s OmniBalance design with premium materials and precision engineering in a slim waterproof and dust resistant smartphone (IP55 & IP58). A solid one-piece aluminium frame with tempered glass on the front and back ensures beauty and durability as well as a consistent viewing experience from any angle.
Xperia Z1 features the fully integrated Qualcomm® Snapdragon™ 800 processor with 2.2 GHz quad-core CPU and 4G LTE to provide a seamless connected entertainment experience, industry leading battery performance and amazing speed. The Qualcomm Snapdragon 800 processor features the latest GPU and dual ISP for incredible graphics, 3D games and videos. The Xperia Z1 also includes a 3000 mAh battery for a high battery performance. Sony’s Battery STAMINA Mode automatically turns off functions to save power when you don’t need them and restarts them when you do.
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As with a lot of the latest Sony smartphones, the Xperia Z1 comes with NFC and can connect quickly and effortlessly to a wide array of Bluetooth devices such as Bluetooth headsets, wireless portable speakers, and even the latest Bluetooth enabled Sony TVs.
Sony’s “WALKMAN”, Album and Movies media applications enable discovery of online and offline content through a single access point with new ways to enjoy and share that content.
The “WALKMAN” application leverages Sony’s audio engine and Facebook integration for sharing and discovering new music and is unique in that it provides seamlessly integrated access to all your downloaded music.
The Movies application brings new intuitive ways to discover, manage and play movie content.
Thanks to the inclusion of Sony’s BRAVIA TV technology, Xperia Z1 features Sony’s unique TRILUMINOS Display for mobile, creating a wider palette of rich natural colours for an immersive viewing experience. It also includes X-Reality for mobile – Sony’s intelligent super resolution technology which analyses each image and optimises the quality to deliver super sharp videos. Xperia Z1 also brings Sony’s audio expertise to play with Sony’s ClearAudio+ which automatically optimises the audio experience without the need to adjust individual settings.
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Companion products for the Xperia Z1 most notably is the QX10 and QX100 lens style cameras and the SmartWatch 2.

 The QX100 Lens style camera with Carl Zeiss Vario Sonnar T* Coating lens and Exmor R™ CMOS turns your Xperia™ Z1 into a professional creative imaging device with 1.0 type Exmor R CMOS sensor, 3.6x optical zoom, and a F1.8 Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T* Coating Lens. The QX10 is the little brother of the QX100

 The SmartWatch 2 gives your info on your wrist. You don’t need to take out your phone to see your alerts for text messages, email, calendar, call log, Facebook, Twitter, Gmail and more. When a message or notification comes in, touch the app icon to read it. A multi-layer color touchscreen lets you browse and read all your notifications.

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The Xperia Z1 will be available starting 4 October in a choice of black, white and purple colour finishes at a recommended retail price of RM2,399. For a limited time, the device will come bundled with the Magnetic Charging Dock DK31.

In addition to the charging dock, to give consumers the best possible viewing and listening experience, the Xperia Z1 also comes with an exclusive entertainment pack filled with music and movies.

From October to December, consumers who purchase the Xperia Z1 will be able to enjoy three months of free music streaming powered by Akazoo, a social media music app which comes preloaded in the device. Users will have unlimited social music listening with access to a huge catalogue of tracks during the promotional period. (Akazoo promotional period is from October – December 2013. Xperia Z1 users who activate their Akazoo application during the promotional period will get 3 months of free subscription from the date of activation.)

In addition, Xperia Z1 users will be able to download up to six movies for free through Movies Privilege, available through the Xperia Privilege app that is also preloaded in the device. (Users will be provided with a code via the Xperia Privilege app to redeem 6 movie credits. The movie downloads will be available from 1 November – 31 December 2013).
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More info at http://www.sonymobile.com/my/
Photo credits: Sony Mobile Malaysia
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vivo Malaysia Launches the New vivo V25 Pro with Enhanced Photography Features and Colour Changing Case

[Tech & Gadgets]

vivo launched the new vivo V25 Pro in Kuala Lumpur on 20 September 2022, adding another option to the stylish V25 series. This latest mid-range smartphone offering from vivo was created for those who express themselves through photos and videos, and offers superior photography features.
The flagship-level 64MP OIS ultra-sensing camera on the back of the V25 Pro minimises blurry shots and supports a longer exposure time, creating clearer and brighter images and videos even in dim lighting conditions. With an eye-catching design, the Colour Changing Fluorite AG Glass covering the rear panel changes its hue when exposed to UV light, reflecting the dynamic personalities of users. The V25 Pro also comes with a powerful processor with high energy-efficiency ratio and great capacity. Coupled with the newest cooling technology and fast charging capabilities, it offers a long-lasting and smooth mobile experience in various scenarios.

“The vivo V25 Pro brings new innovative and technologically advanced features to its users while exuding style and encouraging users to create, have fun, and explore. With the new V25 Pro, it continues to embody the V series concept and provide users with fresh tools and features. vivo understands that users want a smartphone that is aesthetically pleasing and has excellent functional attributes. With the vivo V25 Pro, users can capture the best moments in life with their family and friends anywhere, any time with intuitive camera technologies, while expressing their creativity and emotions through the unique colour-changing design.”
Mike Xu, Chief Executive Officer of vivo Malaysia

For photography, the vivo V25 Pro is equipped with a 64MP OIS ultra-sensing rear camera with upgraded OIS and EIS capabilities and an 8MP wide-angle camera. The vivo V25 Pro has an upgraded Super Night Mode feature, which accurately restores the colours and brightness of highly saturated images at night. Coupled with the new Real-Time Extreme Night Vision feature, users can manually adjust the exposure intensity when they preview an image, further improving the brightness, noise control and details of photos in real-time even in low-light environments. This allows users the freedom to play with the rear camera portrait features at night.
The vivo V25 Pro’s Super Night Video feature brightens the video and reduces noise in dark environments, enabling users to shoot brighter and clearer videos at night. The front camera of V25 Pro has the Natural Portrait video mode, which enhances the overall skin texture and clarity. Furthermore, the Hybrid Image Stabilisation (OIS+EIS) feature makes video shooting clearer and more stable.
The vivo V25 Pro also comes with a new Vlog Movie feature that improves the filming experience with video templates and tutorials to guide users on how to shoot in different scenarios, such as night, food, city and more, as well as an upgraded Multi-Style Portrait feature in the front camera that provides fun filters, enhancing the video shooting experience. The Multi-Style Portrait feature also comes with the Motion Blur effect – which separates people from the background for a more artistic feel.

The vivo V25 Pro has a slim body of 8.62mm and features an elegant 3D Curved Screen with a centred punch hole at the top of the front camera. The lightweight and slim body make the device a comfortable fit in the hands of users. To ensure the phones stand out, vivo incorporated vivid colours for the vivo V25 Pro, with two colours available – Surfing Blue and Starlight Black.
vivo designed the smartphone to spark users’ creativity with the revolutionary Color Changing Fluorite AG Glass, which enables the rear panel of the devices to display different colours at different angles when exposed to UV light. The Surfing Blue edition of vivo V25 Pro changes from light sky blue to deep ocean blue.
The new vivo V25 Pro is equipped with an octa-core CPU chip – the MediaTek Dimensity 1300, paired with 12GB RAM + 8GB extended RAM, which provides 5G capabilities, greater AI imaging capacity to effortlessly produce stunning 4K videos and a smoother gaming experience. Performance and user experience are also improved thanks to the new, industry-leading Bionic Cooling System. The vivo V25 Pro also features a 66W FlashCharge capability and a 4830mAh large battery which can power up the large-capacity and high-density battery cell from 0% to 71% in 30 minutes.

Apart from the vivo V25 Pro, vivo also introduced the vivo TWS Air, a lightweight pair of wireless earbuds. The TWS Air is vivo’s lightest true wireless earbuds, with each earbud weighing just 3.5 grams. The earbuds are designed to fit the contours of the face and cannot be easily brushed out. It is available in two colours – White Bubble and Pebble Blue.
The TWS Air features a 14.2mm driver, the largest speaker driver for vivo’s earbuds to date which provides powerful bass, clear mids and highs. The vivo TWS Air also offers noise cancellation with its two microphones and the AI Noise Cancellation Algorithm, allowing clear and loud communication even while taking a call on the go. The TWS Air is also power efficient, offering 4.5 hours of music playback on a single charge.
The vivo V25 Pro is now available at RM2,499, while the vivo TWS Air is available at RM179. Customers can purchase the devices at all vivo concept stores, authorised dealers, vivo Malaysia’s official E-Store (vivo V25 Pro) (TWA Air) and vivo Malaysia’s official flagship stores on PG Mall, Go Shop, TikTok, Shopee and Lazada (vivo V25 Pro) (TWA Air).
From 24 September to 23 October 2022, customers who purchase the vivo V25 Pro are entitled to receive free gifts worth up to RM697, including a Foome TWS Earbuds worth RM199, 1-year extended warranty worth RM199 and 1-year screen crack protection worth RM299.

Photo and video credits: Vivo Malaysia and the author’s own shot with the Vivo X80 Pro

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KL Fashion Week 2015 – Huawei Fashion Night Out

[Fashion]

Huawei Malaysia collaborated with KL Fashion Week 2015, with Huawei’s latest flagship smartphone – the Huawei Ascend P8 being the official smartphone of this year’s fashion week held at Pavilion Kuala Lumpur.
Huawei Malaysia also debuted their Huawei Watch during the Huawei Fashion Night Out on Friday, 14 August 2015, with a soiree that saw popular Malaysian actress-cum-fashion designer, Nur Fazura, showcase her latest collection.

Speaking on the devices on showcase at the event, Gary Xu, Country Director, Consumer Business Group, Huawei Technologies Malaysia said, “The Huawei P8 takes beauty to the next level, striking a flawless balance of artistry and creativity. With a striking craftsmanship and new revolutionary light painting modes, the Huawei P8 provides consumers with inspiration for creativity. Clearly, it embodies the spirit of KL Fashion Week.”
“At the same time, the Huawei Watch is one of our most recent contributions to a world where fashion and technology have begun to collide more often. And it is one that we are very proud of!  The Huawei Watch received some rave reviews from style-conscious audiences across the world and we are very proud to showcase it to the fashion community in Malaysia today,” added Gary.

As part of its participation in the KL Fashion Week 2015, Huawei Malaysia is organizing the #WeiToFashion Promotion, where participants stand a chance to win an exclusive trip for two to the world’s fashion capital – Paris, and the city of the future, Shanghai. Two pairs of each trip are up for grabs!
To participate, consumers just need to visit the closest Huawei store and purchase the Huawei P8, then submit the contest form and proof of purchase.
Speaking on the promotion, Gary added, “At Huawei, we foresee the elements of style and design becoming key as technology and lifestyles continue to converge. Our participation in KL Fashion Week 2015 and the #WeiToFashion Promotion are testimonies to the fact that we see ourselves as more than just a device brand; we are a lifestyle brand that modern consumers of technology can relate with. Inspired by the EISA Consumer Smartphone Award, Huawei continues to bring not just devices that work beautifully and look gorgeous but also opportunities to get out there and test your limits for experiences and creativity!”

The Huawei #WeiToFashion Promotion is taking place from 14 August to 13 September 2015 at Huawei’s flagship stores located at KLCC, Plaza Low Yat, Midvalley and at selected authorized dealers. Head over to www.facebook.com/HuaweiDeviceMY for the complete list of participating outlets.
“Today’s style-conscious consumers see their devices as an extension of their personalities. Our objective with this campaign is to make the Huawei brand synonymous with the personal style statement of Malaysians. We are excited to engage with the fashion community in Malaysia at this year’s KLFW! This is our first ever association with a fashion event of this scale but I can assure you that with our refreshed focus on lifestyle and design and our overall experience with KLFW, we intend to be regulars at these do’s!” concluded Gary.
To recognize local Malaysian aspiring designers, Huawei and the committee of KLFW identified 24 young designers to participate in the Huawei awards recognition for designers which ran on Huawei Device MY Facebook page. The winners won a Huawei P8 and a 5D4N all-expense paid trip for two to Shanghai.
The winners of the three main categories were announced on the final day of KLFW 2015:
·       Best Men’s Wear – Commoddity by Vincent Siow
·       Best Women’s Wear – Aere by Raja Nadia Sabrina
·       Best Creative – Cassey Gan

 Best Men’s Wear – Commoddity by Vincent Siow
 Best Women’s Wear – Aere by Raja Nadia Sabrina
 Best Creative – Cassey Gan

For more information on the Huawei #WeiToFashion contest and Huawei, head over to www.facebook.com/HuaweiDeviceMY
Photos courtesy of Huawei Malaysia.

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