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A Continued Love Affair With BlackBerry KEY2

Author: Poisonvine.com

Everyone who knows me knows that I am a hardcore BlackBerry fan. Therefore, please expect this review to be biased in the favour of BlackBerry. If there’s something you don’t agree with, let’s just agree to disagree.

 

Despite the prevalence of full touch screen phones, and admittedly there are many very good options out there, there are still a bunch of us who are willing to sacrifice a 16:9 4K stereo sound movie experience on a giant phone for features which makes a phone more usable as, well, a phone.

 

For me, my phone is primarily a communications device – Telegram, WhatsApp and email. I am totally happy to use my tablet to watch movies and play games (I just got a Mi Pad 4 recently which is really good value-for-money and I have no complaints with it so far). As such, the typing experience on my phone is really important to me. I like to be able to type and walk at the same time and still be able to keep my eyes on the road. I like to be able to type confidently without having to check my phone for spelling errors (or worse, stupid autocorrects which can be potentially more embarrassing than some innocent spelling errors. If you have no clue on how serious or hilarious autocorrect mistakes can be, you can see them here).

BlackBerry KEY2’s keyboard is not the best by far in my memory but it is 80% there

This is where a keyboard comes in.

 

BlackBerry KEY2’s keyboard is not the best by far in my memory. That accolade still goes to the good old BlackBerry Bold 9900 (back then, they manufacture their own phone. Now TCL is the manufacturer of all BlackBerry phones) but I think KEY2 is 80% there. The KEY2 certainly made a few improvements over the KeyOne. The keys are angled in such a way that it matches how the thumb would “hit” the keyboard. What I didn’t like so much was that in order to keep a slim profile for the phone, the right “shift” and “alt” key had to go, which at times is a bother if I need to type numbers. For example, to input “7”, I have to hold down the “alt” key and press the “z” key at the same time which is really difficult. Luckily it is possible to lock the “alt” (or the “shift” key for that matter) by double-pressing the “alt” key, but I definitely still prefer to have the alt and shift key on both sides. It is possible to customise the currency key so that it works as “shift” key, but now I chose to use it as “ctrl” key so that I can use it to do my cut and paste easily.

 

Another feature I like about BlackBerry KEY2’s keyboard is that it is possible to create a multi-language keyboard which gives predictive words for up to 3 compatible languages (read: similar writing systems). This could be useful if you regularly communicate using different languages (or better yet, a mix of them). Instead of having to change the input language all the time, you can now simply type away. That said, switching languages on the keyboard (say, English to Chinese) is super easy. Just hold “alt” and press “enter” to toggle between the available languages.

One of my favourite features on legacy BlackBerry devices was the global search feature. Instead of having to go into the contacts app to start looking for someone, I can simply type the person’s name and the phone will show me search results related to the person, including contact details, email conversations with the person, or social media stuff.

 

This feature is still available on the KEY2, but the setting is difficult to find. To enable the global search, tap the centre button (BlackBerry launcher), and click the “Settings” button on the top right hand corner, then “Typing action”, then select “Start a search”.

I have found this feature to be useful, unfortunately it is slow. I really hope that this will be improved going forward.

 

An important thing to note is that when this feature is switched on, in order to use the apps shortcut, you have to hold the bottom right key (the one with nine dots) in order to activate the shortcuts. Some may also notice that the options for creating “short press” shortcut is gone, which effectively reduces the available keys for creating shortcuts by half (long press vs short press). However, there is a workaround. If you create the “short press” shortcuts first, then switch to “Start a search”, the “short press” shortcuts will still work. So currently, I use a short press “T” for Telegram and a long press “T” for Twitter and still have the global search enabled.

 

The battery life on the phone is quite impressive. The battery easily last over a day with normal usage on the phone. That is despite the phone’s battery being only 3500 mAh. I am not sure, but I think it is because the processor Snapdragon 660 is a very power efficient processor.

 

But this brings me to my next point, while I will buy the phone, the price point vs the hardware specs makes it hard for me to recommend this phone to others. For Snapdragon 660, 6 GB RAM and 64 GB memory, BlackBerry KEY2 has a recommended retail price of SGD 899. It is currently possible to buy the Oneplus 6T at SGD 898 which has Snapdragon 845, 6 GB RAM and 128 GB memory. ( If you want to know how good the OnePlus phone is, read my review here)

 

I loved BlackBerry legacy devices, but the user experience on the android versions of BlackBerry hasn’t been quite as smooth so far. I still miss being able to swipe up and right from anywhere, any app to access the BlackBerry hub. That said, the KEY2 has proven to me that there is a future for BlackBerry in android, but admittedly it’s not for everybody.

 

Now I just gotta find the best discount I can get for this phone…

 

p.s. If you are keen to know more about my love for BlackBerry, read my older article on BlackBerry Passport here)

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SG Smartphone Tech Updates – Highly-Secured Google Pixel 3, 4-camera Samsung Galaxy A9 & Blockchain-powered XPhone

Singaporean love gadgets. In this small island-state with no more than 6 million people, we have one mega electronic fair in every 2 months approximately. It is also not surprising to know that we have one of the highest smartphone penetration rates in the world. On average, one Singaporean is carrying 1.5 smartphones; no wonder many international brands choose to launch their smartphones in this tiny red dot.

 

There were so many smartphones launches recently in Singapore last week and the consumers have been spoiled for choices. If you have yet to find time to read out all the press releases, this article serves as a summary to make sure you are in the know.

 

Google Pixel 3/Pixel 3 XL

The Google Pixel 3 is probably the most high-profile launches recently. The Pixel UI has won praises in the market and a handful of tech reviewers has commented that the UI used in the Google Pixel line of phones are better than the “stock” android.

 

Besides improvements in the hardware from the earlier pixel phones, the biggest highlight of the Google Pixel 3 is the use of a new security chip called the Titan M. This is the same chip that Google used in their data centre which means that Google is bringing enterprise-level security technology to smartphones.

 

Google has also ditched 3.5mm port joining the likes of Apple to push for adopting new cable standard for our audio devices. For those who are still using the conventional headphones with the standard 3.5mm audio jack, the Google Pixel 3 and 3 XL are shipped with USB-C 3.5mm audio jack adaptor. You could still use your old expensive headphones with Google Pixel 3.

 

iPhone users, listen up! Before you feel like converting, you may wish to look on the CNET video below for comparison.

Samsung Galaxy A9

The rise of budget phones in recent years has prompted Samsung to launch mid-range Galaxy A series. Consumers has certainly benefited from the intense competition among the smartphone brands. At a lower price-point, the Galaxy A9 is offering specifications that are very comparable to those so-called “flagship phones” are offering.

 

The Galaxy A9 has caught attention from the media of being the first smartphone in the world that has not 2, not 3 but 4 rear cameras! Every camera sensor has its own purpose – ability for better optical zoom (2x to be exact), able to take wider images, better depth of field and better image qualities under low-light conditions.

The rationale of having 4 camera sensors is to give flexibility to the users who could toggle across different camera sensors to suit the users’ requirement – for instance long shots or wide shots.

 

Blockchain-powered XPhone

Pundi X, a Singapore-based blockchain start-up, has announced their very own smartphone called XPhone that runs on their own Function X OS based off Android OS 9.0. Essentially, it is still an Android phone powered by their own Function X blockchain; that means the data transmitted via your phone i.e. apps, pictures, video, messages, calls or any types of file are being stored or distributed through a network of decentralized nodes.

 

Traditionally, phone users go through the centralized mobile carrier to make a call via a number that is unique to every phone user. With Pundi X’s proprietary FXTP, users could by-pass the conventional internet protocol (http) completely to transmit data to another device. To put it simply, X Phone could potentially work independently at places without mobile signal. You should look at their product demo here.

The idea of X Phone is revolutionary. However, Pundi X comments the viability of its blockchain infrastructure depends largely on the spread of nodes (in this case, number of XPhone users).

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Turkey Internet for Foreign Tourists

Article contributed by Rent & Connect

Are you travelling to Turkey for the first time? Or are you a Turkey expert, and have been to the beautiful, enthralling and somewhat complex nation several times before?

Well, you would know about the importance of having a reliable internet access in Turkey during your trip. Rent & Connect provides travelers with a mobile hotspot on rent, so that they can remain connected no matter where they are in Turkey.

Turkey Internet, anytime, anywhere, at an affordable cost.

The Importance of Staying Connected During Your Travels

Are you traveling to Turkey soon? You have to find a way to get reliable internet access throughout your trip, no matter where you are.

We live in the Internet Age; it is unthinkable for anyone to be without internet access for too long, especially when they are travelling.

You need the internet to keep in touch with your friends and family, know what’s happening in the world, and stay informed about the progress of an ongoing project back at your office.

That’s why you need reliable Turkey Internet during your journey.

Internet Access in Turkey for Travelers

Sure, you can get a Wi-Fi connection from a coffee shop in Istanbul, but as you know, public Wi-Fi is never safe and leaves you prone to hacking.

You can use your mobile’s cellular connection, of course, but what will do you about the roaming charges? They could be massive! Also, how can you make sure that there is no breakdown in the coverage?

That’s why for proper Turkey internet access during your trip, you should consider renting a Mobile Hotspot.

Turkey Internet: Renting a Mobile Hotspot in Turkey

Renting a mobile hotspot in Turkey is like having a temporary Wi-Fi with you during your travels. It’s convenient, simple and a great way to stay connected on the move.

What is a Mobile Hotspot and How Does It Work?

A mobile hotspot device is essentially a pocket-sized modem which connects to cellular towers and then re-transmits the signal in the form of a Wi-Fi network. You and the others in your travel group can connect with this Wi-Fi network anytime, anywhere.

As many as 5 to 10 devices can be connected at a time to a mobile hotspot. There is no need to get a new SIM card or to deal with any of the hassles related to getting an internet connection during a foreign trip. 

Rent A Mobile Hotspot and Stay Connected in Turkey

Rent & Connect provides Mobile Hotspots and highly convenient, fast and reliable Turkey Internet access to anyone travelling to Turkey. How does it work?

#1: Reserve your Mobile Hotspot device on our website for the dates you want it or for the entire duration of your holiday or business trip to Turkey.

#2: We will have the Mobile Hotspot delivered to your hotel, or at any location of your choice, before your arrival to Turkey.

#3: Following the end of your trip, we will pick up the device ourselves at a location of your choice.

See? As simple as it gets!

Rent & Connect provides fast, secure, uninterrupted and reliable 4G Turkey internet at an affordable price: Click here to read the details on our prices.

What’s more, we offer 30% off on all rentals of seven days or more! Contact our friendly customer service for more on how to get high quality internet access in Turkey during your trip.

Turkey Internet Speeds

According to the Internet Society, Turkey ranks 59th in the world at internet speed. The speed test data puts internet speeds in Turkey at 14.51 Mbps for download and 4.04 Mbps for upload in 2016.

Turkey Internet Providers

There are 6 or 7 leading internet providers in Turkey and about 30 regional internet providers. Most internet providers offer attractive packages to compete in a highly crowded marketplace. The average cost of an internet subscription is relatively low in Turkey.

Why Travel to Turkey?

Turkey is well known for its incredible natural beauty, friendly people, great cuisine, monuments of historical significance, diverse culture and heritage and much more.

Istanbul, the capital of Turkey, was once called as Constantinople, which for many hundred years was the most important city on the planet, bringing together different civilizations, connecting the East to the West.

It was through Turkey that the famous Silk Route that connected the ancient Kingdom of China to Europe, passed through. It is home to famous landmarks such as the Topkapi Palace, Blue Mosque and the Hagia Sophia.

It’s no surprise that Turkey is one of the most visited tourist destinations in the world, attracting 32.4 million foreign tourists in 2007.

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Realme, OPPO’s sub brand, Looks To Enter Southeast Asia Market.

OPPO has joined the fight against Huawei to capture the youth market. Similar to Huawei’s Honor, Realme is a separated brand under OPPO that targeted at global youth to deliver advance technology features at affordable price range.

 

Established in May 2018, Realme aims to bring performance and design that the young generation need from a smartphone. They launched their first smartphone Realme 1 in India during the first half of the year. Sales has surpassed business expectation. The Realme1 was sold out two minutes after it was made available, making it onto the Amazon ‘Best Seller’ list. 400,000 units of the Realme1 were also sold just two months after the launch.

 

The company never stop to continue the good momentum. Realme’s latest series, the Realme2, set a new record during its launch in India when a total of 200,000 units were sold in under 5 minutes. “With very few options available in the market to meet the ever-changing customer demand, Realme is focusing on bridging the gap by providing products with the latest innovations along with strong performance and stylish designs. As Realme is targeting the global market, we aspire to inject fresh momentum into the global smartphone industry,” said Sky Li, Founder and Global CEO of Realme.

 

Speaking at the launch of the Realme2, Madhav Sheth, Chief Executive Officer, Realme India said, “Being a young smartphone brand in the most diverse and thriving market in the world, we have witnessed unprecedented demand for our smartphones since launching Realme1. In just 30 days, we gained 4% of the online market share, and were ranked 4th in the fastest growing online smartphone market. As a youth-centric brand, we will always thrive to offer customers with the best at optimum prices.”

 

The Realme2 is expected to exceed the Realme1’s achievement. The company has never given a clear time length on when the phones are coming to Southeast Asia but promises that consumers will soon be able to get their hands on the smartphones and enjoy a lot more at surprising prices. Afterall, consumers in this part of the world will have one more choices when comes to budget smartphone.

 

 

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Review of Cinch Belts – A Belt Without Holes

Men always wear belt and it was used for the most practical reason – to tighten the pant. That’s in the past. This day, belt is not just a tightening tool; it is a fashion accessory for men.  Over the past decades, men is increasingly paying more attention to their attire and of course, more brand-conscious when selecting their belt (I am one of those). A quick glimpse on all the belts hanging in stores. We see tonnes of designs on the belt buckle i.e. some just simply putting their brands, some makes super big-(or I should say “super loud”) looking buckle. If you take a closer look on these belts, you see they have one thing in common – they still use holes in the belt.

 

This is something that I don’t understand. Holes are problematic. They need to be evenly punched (not too far or too near apart, usually 1”apart) otherwise, the belt will look ugly and it is not common to find that one hole that could fit comfortably on your waist and there is a high chance of over-tightening the belt.

 

Speaking about tightening the belt, you will notice that after we have pulled the belt through the buckle, we always tend to bend it outwards to find the right hole to fit and without you knowing it, that action will damage the belt eventually.

 

I have tried other hole-less belt before but the tightening mechanism on the buckle usually not very durable and the tightening mechanism which involves pressing the belt hard with a small metal piece underneath the buckle usually leave mark on the belt which I don’t really like it.

Fortunately, I was introduced to Cinch Belts, a start-up that invented an entirely new hole-less belt system that allows adjustment as small as 0.25” apart. This is a guarantee fit for your waist. On top of that, it is very easy to tighten – insert the belt through the belt and pull in the direction along your waist and you are done!

 

To release, just lift the buckle and pull the belt out. Simple.

 

Comfort, Easy to use and durability. How does Cinch Belts achieve that?

The trick lies on Cinch Belts’ InfiniTrack™ designs which can be found beneath the belt. Once it is correctly aligned, the latch on the buckle will “lock” with the tracks on the belt. This locking system has no direct contact with the surface of the belt and thus, minimizing the chance of damaging the belt.

Cinch Belts’ InfiniTrack

 

Why You should buy a Cinch Belts?

Cinch Belts has clearly illustrated to us that there is always a better way in doing things. You must be thinking the mechanism in Cinch belt will be a big sell point to me. Well, “Yes” and “No”. I bought pricy belts before because of their high quality of the material. (Alright. I was a little bit vain then but I don’t blindly spend money to chase after brands). Cinch Belts is not just selling you their solution. Their belts are made of 100% full grain leather. To those who might not know, full grain leather is made from the upper-most surface of the animal’s hide; the part which is the smoothest and strongest. As such, belt made of full grain leather is extremely tough and durable. You are getting quality stuff here.

Armed with powerful solutions and high-quality material, Cinch Belts is giving life-time warranty for every belt sold. That’s the level of assurance the company is giving to their customers.

 

Last but not least, Cinch Belts is running some promotion on their belts. Price has dropped from the usual USD 129.90 to USD 89.90 (That’s 30% discount!). On top of that, you will get free international shipping. To sweeten the deal, readers of The Neo Dimension could get additional USD 10 discount from the final amount if they bought the belts from this link http://buy-cinch.com/discount/NEODIMENSION. Once you are at the Check Out Page, you should see “NEODIMENSION” discount code applied. If you didn’t, you could manually type it in to receive your discount.

 

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July – The Month For Budget Phones – ASUS Zenfone Max Pro (M1), Huawei nova 3i, Honor Play

July in Singapore is filled with exciting launches of budget phones. Last week, ASUS and Huawei launched their ASUS Zenfone Max Pro (M1) and Huawei nova 3i. This week, another new contender in Singapore – Honor launches Honor Play. All these products are selling competitively at the price range of $300 – $450. This post, I am doing a quick comparison of the specs of these phones and hopefully, gives some ideas in your next purchase.

 

Camera

Samsung and iPhone started the idea of Face Unlock but it is not longer a technology barrier for other smartphone markers. All 3 phones offer the face unlock features. I am not a fan for this feature but I am impressed with the technology and how front-facing camera have evolved for the past 1 years.

 

The ASUS Zenfone Max Pro (M1) and Honor Play comes with 8MP and 16MP front-facing camera respectively whereas the Huawei nova 3i is equipped with dual 24MP and 2MP front-facing camera. Judging from the specs alone, the Huawei nova 3i seems to edge above the other 2 phones. In fact, the resolution of the front-facing camera of the nova 3i is higher than its rear camera which is packed with dual 16MP and 2MP lens. The nova 3i’s front-facing camera is also armed with the popular Huawei’s AI photography technology.

 

Model is doing a selfie with Huawei nova 3i

The Honor Play has the same dual camera specs as the Huawei nova 3i. As a separated brand owned by Huawei, the rear camera of the phone comes with Huawei’s AI photography technology. If you are a fan of Huawei’s mobile phones, I am sure this feature is something that you are seeking for.

 

In terms of rear camera specs, the ASUS Zenfone Max Pro (M1) has dual 13MP + 5MP camera lens. The secondary 5MP camera enhanced the bokeh effects of the photo. The rear camera supports 4K recording.

Processor and Memory

Kirin 970 processor made it to the world stage when Huawei introduced their

Honor Play showcased at Raduga Center

flagship Huawei Mate 10 last year. This time, the same Kirin 970 processor in Huawei Mate 10 is used to power the Honor Play. This budget phone is essentially a premium smartphone and it has a 4GB of RAM and 64 GB of ROM that could be expanded with external microSD capacity upto 256GB.

 

On the other hand, the nova 3i from the parent company is equipped with the newer Kirin 710 processor. The new processor is designed to give a better performance specifically for the mid-range phones. The nova 3i has a 4GB of RAM and 128 GB of ROM that could be expanded with external microSD capacity upto 256GB.

 

Unlike Huawei, ASUS uses older Qualcomm Snapdragon 636 processor, one that is commonly found in mid-range smartphones, in their Zenfone Max Pro (M1). For the past 1 year, the 636 processor has proven to be reliable in terms of performance and power consumption. The Zenfone Max Pro (M1) has a 3GB RAM and 32GB of Rom but could be expanded with external microSD capacity upto 2TB.

 

Port – USB Type C, Micro USB , Audio Jack

Fortunately, budget and midrange phones do not always copy everything that a premium phone has. ASUS Zenfone Max Pro (M1), Huawei nova 3i and Honor Play keep the 3.5mm audio jack. You could still enjoy your music on these devices with your current headphones.

 

Among the 3 phones, the Honor Play is the only one with the USB Type C port where as the ASUS Zenfone Max Pro (M1) and the Huawei nova 3i come with the conventional micro-USB ports. Nonetheless, all 3 phones have fast charge features.

 

ASUS Zenfone Max Pro (M1) showcased in Singapore

Battery Capacity

Battery capacity for Huawei nova 3i and Honor Play are 3,340 mAh and 3,750mAh respectively whereas the ASUS Zenfone Max Pro (M1) is packed with 5,000mAh. Judging from the pure hardware perspective, it is impressive to put such a big battery into a phone.

 

Verdict

Let’s just be practical – If you need a phone that works and nothing else, the ASUS Zenfone Max Pro (M1) seems to be a better option. The phone has bigger battery which technically speaking, could last longer eliminating the need of bringing a power bank. With external microSD storage upto 2TB, you could store all your documents and images in your phone.  Unlike the Huawei nova 3i and Honor Play, the microSD card slot is dedicated one which means that there is no need to compromise one sim card slot for external storage. You could still use the dual sim cards simultaneously. If you are one of those who is holding 2 numbers – one for personal and one for work, this is a good feature to have.

 

From 25th July to 30 July, ASUS is having a special launch promotion for Zenfone Max Pro (M1). Price will drop from SGD 348 to SGD 258. Perfect for budget-constraint freelancers who use their personal device for both work and leisure.

 

If you are looking for fun – Honor Play is the first gaming phone that is designed for young mobile users who do not have deep pocket to burn. The Kirin 970 processor has already proven its capability in Huawei Mate 10 but this time, consumers do not need to pay a premium price to get superior performance. The famous Huawei’s GPU Turbo is of course included in the phone.

 

The phone is selling at recommended retail price of SGD 429 at Qoo10 and Honor Singapore is accepting pre-order starting from today. The shipment is expected to be out from 7 Aug onwards.

 

Social Media and Lifestyle–  If you are one of those who like to share good pictures on your SNS, then the nova 3i is the clear winner. The nova 3i has 4 cameras in total! Powered by AI, the nova 3i can recognise over 200 scenarios across eight categories including Blue Sky, Plant and Beach. The AI function can optimise photos by scene to create a true-to-life effect.

With AI machine learning, the HUAWEI nova 3i also supports 3D Qmoji, which is a social media-friendly feature that digitally transposes the face of a user onto a digital avatar.

The nova 3i is selling at SGD 398 and will be making its public debut on 28 July 2018 at Waterway Point Shopping Mall, East Wing Atrium, Basement 2. From 11am to 9pm, customers will receive a Casio G-SHOCK Analog-Digital Watch (worth $199) with every purchase of the nova 3i, while stocks last.

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Launch of Singapore’s First CPR-Training App

The DARE (Dispatcher-Assisted first REsponder) Programme aims to help bystanders gain the knowledge and confidence to save a heart, save a life. The pragramme, started since 2014, was specially designed to to be easy to learn and remember for people of all ages by the Unit for Pre-hospital Emergency Care  which was set up by the Ministry of Health

This year, DARE will be launching a CPR-training app. The app aims to make CPR and AED training more accessible to everybody and help reduce the fear barriers that can prevent people from helping strangers.

The launch will happen during the DARE Festival of Hands which will be held on the 26 May 2018, Saturday 10am -8pm @Toa Payoh HDB Hub. This festival is open to public as well.

 

 

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Put on your tinkering caps at Tinkercademy’s first Open House

The Open House promises to be a fun-filled day for the whole family as you try your hand at console games that you can programme yourself with Tinkercademy.

 

Tap your feet to the beat as you play Washing Machine Revolution, an arcade rhythm game.

 

Feeling a little competitive? Take control of a tank and face off against your friend on the battlefield.

 

And if you ever had dreams of being the master of the universe, you don’t need an Infinity Gauntlet. With the proper coding, you can be the Supreme Leader of your own Minecraft world!

 

For a preview on the above, check out the Tinkercademy Open Hous. Check the video below

 

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Atlas SV Introduces State-of-the-Art Loewe OLED TVs

SINGAPORE – May 8, 2018 – Atlas Sound & Vision,  officially introduces the Loewe range of OLED TVs. Dubbed “the most beautiful OLED TV in the world”, Loewe’s TVs have won more than 200 international design awards and are characterised by their precise and elegant design, high quality as well as ease of use.

 

Established in 1923, Loewe‘s products are handmade in Germany, combined with cutting-edge technology in design and quality. Each OLED TV setup is customizable based on the customer’s preferences, and comes with Bluetooth connectivity to allow music lovers to listen via the TV speakers as they stream music from their devices.

 

 

“Rising affluence amongst consumers, coupled with the rise in demand for 4K resolution content, has led to an increasing demand for premium audio and visual products. Around 70 percent of Southeast Asian consumers see themselves to be financially better off than they were seven years ago[1] and the global OLED market is expected to reach around USD41 billion come 2023[2]. We are excited to bring Loewe’s state-of-the-art viewing experiences to savvy consumers and screen buffs in Singapore. We look forward to strengthening our partnership with Loewe in Singapore and the region,” said Michael Tien, Chief Executive Officer for Atlas Sound & Vision.

 

Loewe bild 7

Powered by Loewe OLED Technology

Loewe’s family of OLED TV uses organic light-emitting diode technology which creates perfect blacks, life-like visuals, a wide viewing angle, as well as having ultra-thin displays. Each OLED TV screen is thinner than an average smartphone. The display for Loewe’s bild 3 and 5 series come at 4.9mm while the bild 7 series comes at 7mm.

 

Every single pixel in a TV produces its own light. When the TV is switched off, absolute blackness within a response time of less than a microsecond is achieved. In contrast to liquid-crystal display (LCD) screens, OLED does not require back-lighting. Hence, eliminating the problem of clouding effect (light spots/grey haze), which appears when viewing scenes filmed in dark environments.

 

It incorporates three HDR standards, HDR10, HLG and Dolby Vision™ to consistently deliver the best possible picture quality and ensure that your Loewe OLED TV is future-proof.

 

Uncompromising Sound and Brilliant Image Quality

Built with powerful, built-in front speakers, Loewe OLED TVs allow consumers to experience acoustic quality of concert halls at their own living room. Home owners can also create their personal configuration by adding a klang soundbar or other Atlas curated sound solutions to their home entertainment system. Loewe bild 7.77 also comes with an integrated soundbar, providing a rich 120 watts of audio output.

 

Loewe OLED TVs produce brilliant high dynamic range (HDR) images which are of higher contrast and a much wider range of colours for pictures that are extremely brilliant and natural.

 

Sleek Elegance for any Modern Home

Recognized for their sophisticated design and clean lines, Loewe TVs provides its customers with endless possibilities to create their perfect TV.

 

The Loewe bild 3.55 is designed to be an eye-catcher for even the most basic living spaces and the extravagant; while the Loewe bild 5, designed by Bodo Sperlein, integrates one of the most traditional and soulful design materials: oak wood. Loewe bild 7 oozes confidence, is elegant and assured.

 

The three series of Loewe OLED TVs are now available at Atlas @ Millenia Walk:

  • The centerpiece: Loewe bild 3.55 oled, which comes with a table stand, is priced at S$4,999
  • The masterpiece: Loewe bild 5 oled range, is priced from S$6,399
  • The statement piece: Loewe bild 7 oled range, which comes with a wall mount, is priced from S$10,999
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The New LG gram Targets Mobile Workforce

Last month,  LG Singapore held LG HE and IT Product Launch at Marina Bay Sand.  At the event, LG Singapore launched their new LG gram ultrabooks that target at mobile workforce.

 

LG Singapore pitches that Portability, Functionality, Battery Life, Durability are the 4 ingredients in their development of LG gram.

 

LG gram

Portability: The New LG gram comes in 3 distinct models – 13.3 -, 14- and 15.6- inch  weigh approximately between 960g – 1.1kg which honestly speaking, is very light compared to similar laptops in the market.  All the 3 models measured not more than 1.68cm which could fit comfortably into most sling bags used by mobile executives.

 

Functionality:   The new LG gram is equipped with latest 8th Gen Intel Core and SSD storage that delivers performance for mobile workers. Despite its slim body, it still has all the the necessary ports such as HDMI. microSD, USB, USB-C and headphone jack (Yes, this is a feature!)

 

The product also comes with Fingerprint ID that enable users to log in and power on with the press of a button without comprising security.

 

Battery Life: LG gram is equipped with a 72Wh battery that LG claims could last up to 22.5hrs in a single charge. The long battery life is very ideal for busy executives who are always on the move.

 

Durability: The new LG gram has improved its build quality;  a magnesium alloy called Nano Carbon (with Magnesium) is used for the LG gram’s body. This material is known to be tough and light and is commonly used  in aerospace engineering. LG gram is even put under US military MIL-STD 810G durability tests for resistance to impact, pressure and temperature. You may wish to see the short demo we shot at the event below.

 

My thoughts: The product demo is impressive and freelancer like me who is always on the move will be keen to own one.  Speaking about the price, the LG gram is selling at RRP starting from SGD1,999 . Indeed, it is a hefty price tag compared to other similar products. Afterall, you have to pay a price for the portability and toughness of the product.

 

In business, it is about productivity and impression. The LG gram has packed with supreme hardware features that promises to deliver productivity and powerful. However, LG, in the laptop market, has not established a clear business impression as compared to other established names like Lenovo’s ThinkPad and Apple’s Mac (ok, Mac is for creative professionals). In my opinion, you are paying more on the LG gram’s hardwares than the brand. In short, you are getting what you pay for but this product may not the one that caters to all.