HONOR Philippines opened the year with a strong showing as its newest smartphone, the HONOR X9d 5G, recorded a 160% increase in first-day sales compared to its predecessor, the HONOR X9c 5G.

The rollout began on January 1 with a series of viral drop tests that highlighted the phone’s durability. This was followed by a public stunt that pitted the device against the toughness of a Tesla Cybertruck, and a formal launch event at the Grand Hyatt. By January 24, the HONOR X9d 5G was officially available in stores nationwide.

“On behalf of HONOR Philippines, I thank our loyal HONOR fans, partners, and media friends for the overwhelming support for the HONOR X9d 5G. This success would not have been possible without your trust and belief in us. We are truly grateful, and we promise to continue bringing you tougher, smarter, and more exciting innovations,” said Stephen Cheng, Vice President of HONOR Philippines.

Built for durability

HONOR positions the X9d 5G as one of the most durable smartphones in its segment. The device features HONOR Ultra-Bounce Anti-Drop Technology, reinforced by non-Newtonian fluid material and deep-tempered glass designed to absorb impact.

According to the company, the phone can survive drops of up to 2.5 meters onto certain surfaces. It is also designed to withstand water, dust, and various types of ground impact, including stone surfaces demonstrated during its public tests.

In the Philippines, smartphones are not handled with kid gloves. They are pulled out on crowded jeepneys, used one-handed while carrying groceries, mounted on motorcycle handlebars, and slipped into pockets during long commutes. They fall, from tables, from beds, from laps, and sometimes from places we never expect. For many Filipinos, a phone is not just a gadget. It is a daily companion that has to survive real life.

This is where the HONOR X9d 5G enters the picture.

HONOR Philippines recently made headlines by doing something few brands would dare: dropping the HONOR X9d 5G from an aircraft. While no Filipino will ever intentionally drop a phone from the sky, the message behind the stunt was clear. If a phone can survive that, it stands a better chance against the everyday accidents most users face.

Phones and Real Life, Filipino Style

For students, a phone is used for online classes, group chats, and late-night scrolling. For workers, it is a navigation tool, a mobile office, and a source of entertainment during long rides home. Parents rely on their phones for communication, online payments, and quick photos of family moments.

In all these situations, drops are inevitable. A phone slips while rushing to catch a bus. It falls from a pocket while getting off a tricycle. It lands face-down on concrete when a hand misses its grip.

Most smartphones are not built with these realities in mind. One bad fall can mean cracked glass, unresponsive screens, or worse, lost photos and files.

Why the HONOR X9d 5G’s Durability Matters

The HONOR X9d 5G was designed to address this exact problem. Instead of focusing only on performance numbers or camera megapixels, HONOR put emphasis on physical strength and internal protection.

At the center of the phone’s toughness is its reinforced display and strengthened body structure. The screen is designed to absorb shock rather than break easily, while the frame helps distribute impact force across the phone. This reduces the chance of damage when the device hits hard surfaces.

Equally important is what happens inside. Internal components, including storage and connectors, are secured to prevent movement during sudden impact. This means that even if the phone gets scratched or dented, critical data is more likely to stay safe.

For everyday users, this translates to peace of mind. A phone that survives a fall is useful. A phone that still works properly after that fall is essential.

The Plane Drop Test, Explained Simply

HONOR Philippines invited a media representative to release the HONOR X9d 5G from an ultralight plane, creating one of the most extreme durability tests seen in the local smartphone scene. From that height and speed, most phones would be rendered useless.

The test was not meant to encourage reckless use. Instead, it was a statement of confidence. HONOR wanted to show that the X9d 5G is built with enough protection to handle far more than everyday accidents.

In simpler terms, if a phone can survive an uncontrolled fall from the sky, it has a much better chance of surviving slips from desks, pockets, and hands.

A Practical Choice for Daily Use

Beyond durability, the HONOR X9d 5G fits well into the lifestyle of Filipino users who want reliability without paying flagship prices. It is built for long days, frequent use, and environments that are not always gentle.

For commuters, it offers confidence during daily travel. For students, it means fewer worries about accidental drops in classrooms or dorms. For families, it provides reassurance that important photos, messages, and files are less likely to be lost because of a simple accident.

Real Strength for Real Life

The HONOR X9d 5G is not indestructible. No smartphone truly is. But its design shows an understanding of how Filipinos actually live and use their devices.

The plane drop test may be extreme, but the idea behind it is grounded in reality. Phones fall. Accidents happen. And for many users, durability is not a luxury, it is a necessity.

In a market filled with flashy features, the HONOR X9d 5G stands out by offering something practical: a phone built to survive everyday Filipino life.

In a smartphone market crowded with familiar names and aggressive price wars, HONOR Philippines managed what many brands struggle to do: return quietly, then build noise that mattered.

Since re-entering the Philippine market in 2022 as an independent brand, HONOR has steadily grown from a comeback story into a visible player in mobile devices. The rise did not hinge on a single viral moment or celebrity endorsement alone. Instead, it was built through a deliberate mix of product messaging, spectacle-driven launches, media engagement, and features that users could test — and break — in public.

The result is a brand now associated locally with durability, bold claims, and campaigns that rarely go unnoticed.

Leading global AI smart device brand HONOR Philippines continues to lead the mid-range smartphone segment, driven by the strong performance of its popular HONOR X9 series. Since the launch of the HONOR X9a 5G in 2023, the company has consistently rolled out successful models that resonated with consumers. What began as a product release has since evolved into a yearly campaign, with each new HONOR X9 launch now an anticipated tradition for the brand and its fans.

“When we launched HONOR X9a 5G, we literally had zero expectations. What we had was hope and confidence in our capabilities, and then it exceeded all expectations. We did not let the success get into our heads; we just thought it was beginner’s luck. So, we leveled up with HONOR X9b 5G, and again it became a massive hit. Then HONOR X9c 5G came and it was our biggest feat yet, outdoing everything we’ve done in 2023 and 2024,” said HONOR Philippines Vice President Stephen Cheng.

The HONOR X9 series has been synonymous with its exceptional durability, raising the bar year after year. What began with 5-foot drop tests evolved into a 50-foot intense drop test-- and this year, HONOR X9c pushed to the extreme, dropped from a helicopter hundreds of feet above ground, further proving its unmatched toughness.

“One can only think about how we can even top the past three generations of HONOR X9 series. We must admit, it has become a challenge at this point, but with the technology and talent we have at HONOR, it is indeed a good challenge. I’m very excited for everyone to witness what we have been planning for the past few months,” Cheng continued.

Who says a high-performing tablet has to break the bank? This holiday season, Samsung unveils the Galaxy Tab A11 WiFi | LTE — a versatile device built to meet the everyday needs of the modern family. Blending powerful performance with premium features and smart AI integration, the Galaxy Tab A11 offers an ideal balance of learning, entertainment, and productivity. Sleek, portable, and affordable, it marks an accessible entry point into the Galaxy Tab ecosystem.

Every day made easier

Radiant Imaging Labs continues to raise the bar for intelligent photo editing with the release of Radiant Photo 2.1, the latest version of its AI-powered photo enhancement software. The new update is designed to make every photo look naturally stunning—without the need for complex editing or artificial elements.

For photographers, content creators, and visual storytellers, Radiant Photo 2.1 offers one thing above all: speed and simplicity. With improved performance, cleaner controls, and a more user-friendly interface, it’s now easier than ever to achieve professional-grade edits with minimal effort.

HONOR Philippines is set to unveil its sleekest and slimmest foldable yet — the HONOR Magic V5 — arriving this September 5! Packed with the largest battery among today’s foldable smartphones, the Magic V5 promises power that lasts, all in a portable and stylish build. Don’t miss the official launch happening live on Facebook: https://bit.ly/MagicV5Launch_FB.

“We designed the HONOR Magic V5 to redefine what a foldable phone should be — lightweight yet durable, powerful yet elegant. Its impressive camera and performance features set it apart from the competition, and we can’t wait to showcase this new milestone in mobile technology,” shared Stephen Cheng, Vice President of HONOR Philippines.

Exceptional Telephoto Capabilities with the 64MP Periscope Telephoto Camera

The HONOR Magic V5 is equipped with the HONOR AI Falcon Camera System, offering a professional-grade photography experience. The setup comprises an upgraded 64MP Periscope Telephoto Camera Lens, a 50MP Wide Camera, and a 50MP Ultra-Wide Camera. Combining powerful optics with advanced AI image processing, users can capture vivid, detailed photos and videos in any scenario or zoom level.

Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. announced the launch of the Galaxy Buds Core, wireless earbuds designed to deliver a reliable audio experience for everyday users. The Buds Core feature consistent sound quality with active noise cancellation, a secure and comfortable fit, easy-to-use controls, and dependable connectivity—all at an affordable price.

For the everyday music enthusiast, Galaxy Buds Core features carefully crafted sound with clear trebles and a deep, well-tuned bass that hits all the right notes. For all-day comfort, it comes with silicone wingtips for a pressure-free fit, letting them stay in place all day whether you’re relaxing at home or taking a run around the park. It is also built to withstand the rigors of everyday life with an IP54 rating for dust and water resistance.

For keeping in touch with friends and family, or for work-related calls, Galaxy Buds Core lets you communicate with clarity, with three microphones that work in unison to capture your voice with precision, ensuring your voice can be heard clearly on the other end.

As part of Samsung’s efforts to make AI more available to everyone, users can further enhance their Galaxy AI experience with Galaxy Buds Core. Now with support for Interpreter, you can hear translations on the spot, all without having to look at your smartphone’s screen. Simply keep your earbuds on , and stay engaged in your conversation, as Galaxy AI provides translations in real-time in Conversation Mode.

Galaxy Buds Core are also easy to pair, and easy to find. They connect effortlessly to your devices, and with Auto Switch , it can automatically recognize audio activity and smoothly shift the connection from your Galaxy smartphone to your Galaxy Tab. If you ever find yourself looking for a missing earbud in the depths of your sofa, track them with ease using Samsung Find .

To match your everyday fit, Galaxy Buds Core comes in both bold black and fresh white . Choose the color that seamlessly complements your look, with style and sound that suit the moment.

Pricing and Availability

Experience pure sound every day with the new Galaxy Buds Core, available in White and Black for only ₱2,690. For more details about the Galaxy Buds Core, visit https://www.samsung.com/ph/audio-sound/galaxy-buds/galaxy-buds-core-black-sm-r410nzkaasa.

The Galaxy Tab S10 Lite blends entertainment, creativity and productivity in one device, giving users an affordable tablet designed for everyday use.

● Immersive display: A 10.9-inch screen with Vision Booster and up to 600 nits peak brightness delivers vibrant viewing indoors and out
● Dependable performance that lasts: With an upgraded processor and an 8000mAh battery with Super-Fast Charging, Galaxy Tab S10 Lite is built to handle long sessions of entertainment, studying and more
● S Pen and creative tools: The in-box S Pen, Intelligent Features, and wide third-party app support, help users to sketch, write and create with ease


Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. introduced the Galaxy Tab S10 Lite, a budget-friendly tablet built to enhance entertainment, creativity and productivity on the go. The device features a large display for immersive viewing and comes with an S Pen for easy note-taking and creative work. Designed for everyday use, the Tab S10 Lite combines versatility and value, supported by Samsung’s intelligent features and seamless integration across the Galaxy ecosystem.

“The new Galaxy Tab S10 Lite is designed to bring practical, everyday functionality to more people around the world,” said Changtae Kim, EVP & Head of New Computing R&D Team, Mobile eXperience Business at Samsung Electronics. “We built it to be a reliable companion that empowers users to get more out of every moment, with useful features and a versatile design that fits naturally into how they jump between classes and playlists, stay productive during the day or turn downtime into creative time.”

Watch and Play on Brighter, Smoother Displays

With an expansive 10.9-inch screen1, Galaxy Tab S10 Lite offers a fun entertainment experience that is perfect for streaming, browsing and more. Users can now enjoy their favorite content on a vibrant, smooth display that adapts comfortably from indoor to outdoor use, thanks to Vision Booster and a peak brightness of up to 600 nits. Meanwhile, lower blue-light emission2 supports extended viewing comfort when catching up on the latest shows.

Equipped with an upgraded processor and increased memory capacity, the Galaxy Tab S10 Lite responds smoothly to everyday demands like jumping between open tabs during research or brainstorming across apps. An 8000 mAh battery capacity3 and Super-Fast Charging4 ensure that the Galaxy Tab S10 Lite can keep up with uninterrupted entertainment or late-night study sessions at the library without worrying about frequent recharging.

Intelligent Features for Creating and Getting More Done

From studying to capturing creative ideas, Galaxy Tab S10 Lite includes Intelligent Features that support focus and inspiration anytime, anywhere. With intuitive tools that keep up with everyday demands on the move, users can think clearly and create freely, no matter what the task.

● The in-box S Pen keeps pace with creativity in real time, offering instant responsiveness and fluid precision. From jotting down ideas during a call to sketching out a quick layout while commuting to campus, users have the flexibility to work through their thoughts whenever and wherever they come.

● Intelligent Features on Samsung Notes help bring structure to everyday thinking, whether it’s organizing handwritten notes with Handwriting Help5 or solving equations instantly with Solve Math6. From quick annotations to full markups, users can work directly on imported PDFs and export polished files without switching apps. And when following lecture slides while taking notes or illustrating with reference images open side by side, Split View supports more efficient multitasking and organization.

● The Galaxy Tab S10 Lite also serves as a capable AI companion, with Circle to Search7 with Google enabling intuitive discovery and translation from anywhere on screen. This allows users to seamlessly access information in the moment they need it, without breaking focus from what they’re watching, reading or working on. The Galaxy AI Key on the Book Cover Keyboard8 provides quick access to AI assistance to brainstorm ideas or get help mid-task, offering a smart and creative partner.

● Galaxy Tab S10 Lite offers access to a wide selection of third-party apps9, helping users explore different tools to suit unique ways of working. From a curated suite of preloaded favorites like Goodnotes10, Clip Studio Paint11, LumaFusion12 and Notion13 to other popular tools such as Noteshelf 314, ArcSite15, Sketchbook and Picsart16, the tablet enables ideas to flow freely from concept to execution.

Users can try out many of these apps as exclusive benefits, making it easier to experiment, stay productive and bring ideas to life. Offers include a 1-year free full version of Goodnotes, a 6- month free trial of Clip Studio Paint with 20% off the first subscription and a 66% discount on LumaFusion plus a 1-month free Creator Pass subscription. Notion includes a 1-month free trial of its Plus plan with Notion AI.

Availability

The Galaxy Tab S10 Lite comes in Gray17, and will be available starting September 19 for ₱19,990 in Samsung Experience Stores, Samsung.com, Samsung Mobile Shop App, Samsung’s Flagship stores in Shopee, Lazada, and Tiktok Shop, and other partner retail stores. For more information about the Galaxy Tab S10 Lite, please visit: Samsung Global Newsroom or Samsung.com.

About Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.

Samsung inspires the world and shapes the future with transformative ideas and technologies. The company is redefining the worlds of TVs, digital signage, smartphones, wearables, tablets, home appliances and network systems, as well as memory, system LSI and foundry. Samsung is also advancing medical imaging technologies, HVAC solutions and robotics, while creating innovative automotive and audio products through Harman. With its SmartThings ecosystem, open collaboration with partners, and integration of AI across its portfolio, Samsung delivers a seamless and intelligent connected experience. For the latest news, please visit the Samsung Newsroom at news.samsung.com/global.

Specifications

Godox, a global leader in lighting solutions, has officially entered the Philippine market with a launch event held Aug. 19, 2025, at Shooting Gallery Studios in Makati City. Organized by JG Distribution, the event coincided with World Photography Day.

The launch gathered hundreds of photographers, videographers, filmmakers, directors, content creators and industry professionals for a hands-on showcase of Godox’s newest professional lighting technologies.

Empowering Creativity Through Innovation

Since its founding in 1993, Godox has been at the forefront of professional lighting solutions, pushing the boundaries of technology to make world-class tools accessible to both professionals and aspiring creators. From studio photography to large-scale film productions, Godox products have become trusted tools for storytellers around the globe.

Guided by the mission to provide "lighting solutions that empower creativity,"Godox believes every idea deserves the right tools to shine. Its entry into the Philippine market marks a new chapter of support for local creatives, equipping them with the technology to bring their visions to life.

After more than a year of testing the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra, the borrowed unit was finally recalled and returned to the PR agency that facilitated the review, Samsung through TARO AOX Inc. and COMCO Southeast Asia. The handover marked the end of a year-long journey of discovery with one of the most powerful smartphones in today’s market. And while the device is no longer in hand, the lessons and insights it offered remain.

The experience of using the Galaxy S24 Ultra served as a reminder of what really matters when it comes to technology. Gadgets, no matter how sleek or expensive, must always prove their value in everyday use. For lifestyle bloggers, content creators, and digital influencers who rely on smartphones as their main creative tool, usability and reliability stand above all else.

Power Packed for Real-Life Needs

One of the defining features of the Galaxy S24 Ultra was its processor. Samsung equipped the phone with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip (customized for Galaxy), ensuring that speed and efficiency weren’t just marketing points but actual benefits felt during daily use. From editing 4K videos on the go to handling multiple apps for social media management, the device rarely lagged.

For bloggers and creators, this power translates into smoother workflows. Instead of waiting for apps to catch up or experiencing lags during video editing, the S24 Ultra handled demanding tasks with ease. That alone gave it an edge as a reliable partner for people who make a living out of fast-paced, content-driven lifestyles.

“Venu X1 is the perfect blend of form, function and style,” said Susan Lyman, Garmin’s vice president of consumer sales and marketing. “Its slim profile houses all of Garmin’s most popular features, while the large display makes it easy to view maps, workout stats, health insights and smart notifications with stunning clarity.”

Sleek, lightweight design

• ● Vibrant 2-inch display makes it easier to read data at a glance and view maps in vivid detail.
• ● Lightweight titanium caseback and scratch-resistant sapphire lens are made for all-day wear.
• ● 8mm watch case features a rectangular design with rounded corners.
• ● Built-in watch faces are customizable so users can see the data they rely on the most—from current step count and real-time heart rate to altitude and training readiness.
• ● More font sizes help make notifications easier to read.
• ● Included 24mm quick-release ComfortFit nylon band provides a comfortable, secure fit 24/7.
• ● Available in two popular color options: black and moss.

Built-in LED flashlight, speaker, and mic

Made to be worn all day every day, Venu X1 includes an LED flashlight that provides greater visibility in dark environments. The built-in speaker and microphone let users make and take calls from the watch when it’s paired with a compatible smartphone and use the phone’s voice assistant to respond to text messages. Certain voice commands like “start a running activity” and “set a timer for 5 minutes” can also be activated right from the watch—no phone connection required.

Venu X1 has a suggested retail price of PHP 47,990 and is available in all Garmin Brand Stores and online through the official Garmin Stores online in Kinetic, Shopee, and Lazada. For more information, visit www.ph.garmin.com.

Engineered on the inside for life on the outside, Garmin products have revolutionized the health and wellness industry. Committed to developing smartwatches and health measurement tools that help people of all activity levels lead healthier lives, Garmin believes every day is an opportunity to innovate and a chance to beat yesterday.

vivo is set to launch its most advanced smartphone yet, the vivo X Fold5, in the Philippines this August. Marking the brand’s first foldable device in Southeast Asia, the X Fold5 combines high-end features with a premium design. It aims to set a new standard for foldable phones. Here are four key reasons why the X Fold5 is one of the most anticipated foldable devices of the year.

1. The slimmest and lightest foldable from vivo yet

Tired of bulky foldables? The vivo X Fold5 introduces a whole new level of sleekness. It weighs only 217 grams and measures just 4.3 millimeters when unfolded. That is as thin as two stacked coins, making it one of the most comfortable foldables to hold and use all day. At the heart of this innovation is vivo’s new 2nd-Gen Armor Architecture with Carbon Fiber Support Hinge. Designed with a rotating sliding structure, it reduces the pressure on the screen and helps eliminate the crease often seen on other foldable devices. The hinge is made of aerospace-grade steel with embedded carbon fiber metal nuts, increasing toughness by 47.3 percent compared to the previous generation.