DULDULAO DOT NET This Day & Beyond

Category: Technology

  • BPI encourages small business owners to use QR code cashless payment for security and convenience

    BPI encourages small business owners to use QR code cashless payment for security and convenience

    The Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) recently rolled out its Cashless Negosyo webinar series in North Luzon, which aims to boost the ability of small entrepreneurs to adapt to the new reality as consumers turn to e-commerce due to quarantine constraints amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

    According to BPI, digital payments will aid small business owners to ensure personal, employee, and customer safety. This will help them abide by the government’s minimum health protocols, and enables them to offer their goods and services online or via delivery. It also allows them to reach as many customers despite quarantine restrictions.

    “BPI provides cashless payment option to small business owner or sole proprietor clients of the bank and help minimize if not eliminate waiting lines in their stores because their customers can just scan the QR code simultaneously to pay for their purchases. That is why for small business owners who will be generating their own QR code, it is important to make QR standees so that customers can check out faster,” said BPI Division Head for North Luzon, Marwin Galvez.

    BPI reiterated that cashless payments made via QR code is not only faster and safer, but is also more accurate than using electronic fund transfer as payment option because it’s less prone to typing erroneous details compared to doing fund transfer by inputting the 10-digit account number. It eliminates the risk of transferring money to a wrong account.

    BPI noted that from 70 percent in March this year, the number of transactions done digitally have now increased to 90 percent in November. More than half of its 8 million clients are also now registered to the bank’s digital platforms for their everyday banking needs. Small business owners may promote their cashless payment option to encourage and reassure customers that it is still safe to shop through this contact less payment method. “We encourage small business owners to make use of the QR code system as a way of protecting them and their clients as the market shifts to more online transactions and digital living in the new normal,” Mr. Galvez added.

    REFERENCE:

    Lariza Garcia

  • This fun, entertaining app will allow users to commemorate birthdays in a more rewarding way

    This fun, entertaining app will allow users to commemorate birthdays in a more rewarding way

    Leveraging the available digital tools and platforms to bridge their services to more Filipinos, mostly those that are in the far-flung areas, PCSO, in partnership with Minedomain, Inc., is set to launch ‘Birthday Panalo,’ a free and easy-to-use application with an entertaining game which will allow Filipinos to celebrate important dates in their lives, like anniversaries and birthdays, with exciting cash prizes.

    Made for Filipinos, by Filipinos Designed with Filipinos in mind, the Birthday Panalo app banks on the deep-rooted culture of Pinoys in putting value in commemorating special dates like birthdays and anniversaries.

    While millennials are the main audience targeted with the launch of the app, Seaver Choy, Minedomain Inc. IT officer shared that ease of use is one of the main factors their team considered in developing Birthday Panalo to make it enjoyable for users across various age groups. “We want the millennials to love this game so we went for what millennials want most — ease of use. We only put in the necessary elements for users to be able to do what they need to do fast and immediately,” he said.

    “We focused on the user experience when we were developing by having iterating designs that had constant user feedback. Birthday Panalo has gone through multiple design changes based on different user feedback across different groups,” Choy added.

    The core group which made and designed the Birthday Panalo app was an all-Filipino team composed of professionals from the country’s top universities including De La Salle University, Polytechnic University of the Philippines, and University of the East. “Birthday Panalo app was built with resilience and celebrations in mind. We made it fun and easy to bet but still overly secure,” Choy furthered, assuring users that the personal data and information they input within the Birthday Panalo app are protected according to industry standards.

    Choy noted that the Birthday Panalo app has been tested by local and international cybersecurity companies like GLI, Bolton Labs, and Mantua, among others, to ensure that the app has the needed safety measures in place to avoid leakage of user data. “Internally, we are also certified when it comes to how we operate and how we maintain the application,” Choy said. Celebrations made even more rewarding Within the app which carries design elements signifying Filipinos, ‘Kapanalo’ or users of the app can place a bet on a three-part number combination consisting of a month, a day, and a year.

    If the same combination gets to be picked during daily draws, a user can win as much as P100,000 as a cash prize. After downloading the app, users can easily sign up using either their mobile phone or email address verified through a one-time password (OTP) sent by the app.

    Once done with the registration process, users can proceed participating in draws for as low PhP 10 which they can pay via mobile wallets like GCash and PayMaya. Winners of lucky date combinations which will be notified via the Birthday Panalo app may claim their prizes at the PCSO main branch in Mandaluyong City, or have it credited on their respective mobile wallets.

    The Birthday Panalo app will soon be available for free download via the Google Play Store and the Apple App Store. Kapanalo from all over the Philippines can also look forward to playing the Birthday Panalo game in select PCSO outlets nationwide in the coming months.

    REFERENCE:

    Lariza Garcia

  • Making connections that matter: Riki Flo talks about rediscovering family bonding at home

    Making connections that matter: Riki Flo talks about rediscovering family bonding at home

    Learn how to make the most out of your whole home wifi for the family

    Many families are now looking forward to the start of the new year at home. Despite the hardships and challenges that the past months of quarantine have posed, there are still so many things that everyone can be thankful for, especially that staying safe at home has brought everyone closer together.

    When everybody welcomed the new decade full of hopes and excitement, no one could have predicted how a health crisis would put an indefinite pause on their plans and resolutions for the year. However, radio personality and wonder-mom Riki Flo felt blessed to have spent the time in quarantine with the company of her loving family.

    She says, “I realized that spending time at home with people you love the most is a luxury, and when life got too real, I was reminded of that. And though we may not have had as many adventures outside this year, we made many memories at home and that allowed us to become closer.”

    Bonding in the new normal

    When the news of the lockdown first broke in the country, Riki remembers how she prepared for the quarantine by purchasing art supplies for her children. A mother of two young and energetic kids, Calix and Dandy, she knew that the isolation would be a difficult period of adjustment for them and wanted to brighten things up.

    “Being isolated from the world is tough and if we were going to be holed up for a while, I wanted them to enjoy themselves at home. I bought different art supplies and creative materials in case they wanted to experiment and make crafts,” she said.

    She also introduced her little ones to the world of gardening. Lately, their family has been nurturing a newfound love for plants, flowers, and even insects. This little hobby of theirs has also turned out to be a learning experience as they would be looking up the species and reading more about them on the internet.

    Embracing the new digital lifestyle

    Going online has not just been a source of latest news, updates, and additional knowledge for Riki’s family. She goes as far as to say that the internet has made life in quarantine more bearable for her and her kids.

    “With reliable connections from PLDT Fibr, we were able to keep in touch with our different family members and friends through video calls. We also enjoyed family movie nights by watching new and old films together, and we even fell in love with K-pop,” she expresses. It seems that through streaming music videos of Korean idols that Riki uncovered a special hidden talent of her children: dancing!

    Riki also mentions how four-year-old Calix was able to continue with his kindergarten classes online seamlessly with help of PLDT. With PLDT’s new whole home wifi mesh system, they have been able to enjoy consistent connectivity with no dead spots in the household. This has enabled them to discover new ways to work, learn, and play from every corner of the room, including the kids’ newly transformed study area.

    “At first, it was difficult to get him to understand why everything had to be through a computer screen right now, but we have all adapted and our mornings are much smoother now,” she shares. “I’m also thankful because my husband and I tag team when it comes to Calix’s online classes. He prints the materials and I sit in and facilitate the actual class.”

    One thing that Riki is grateful for in this year is how she was able to understand her family more. She says, “As a mom, I can say that I saw and learned more about my kids, about their interests and their talents. I wouldn’t have been able to get closer to them if I wasn’t working from home.”

    She also adds, “It’s all about being patient with the kids and learning how to stretch things out. It’s very important that we can support and guide them as these experiences and memories are part of their childhood.”

    This new year can be full of challenges, but it is also packed with hope and anticipation. With PLDT making sure that our connections are faster and more stable than ever, we can be excited to face the days to come.

    Know more about PLDT Home’s latest Whole Home Wifi System at https://pldthome.com/wholehomesystem and see how you can rediscover connections and activities at home.

    REFERENCE:

    JEAN RICELLE A. AQUINO

    Sr. Media Relations Officer

    StratWorks, Inc.

    0927 027 8975

  • Top Up and Transfer for a Chance to Win ₱10,000 at the ShopeePay Cashless Festival

    Top Up and Transfer for a Chance to Win ₱10,000 at the ShopeePay Cashless Festival

    Excited ShopeePay users can also redeem an exciting exclusive rewards such as free shipping, coins cashback, and more this January 21-28, 2021.

    ShopeePay, an integrated mobile wallet that offers users easy access to digital payment services, launches its first-ever ShopeePay Cashless Festival this January 21-28, 2021. Shoppers who use ShopeePay can enjoy free shipping, coins cashback, a chance to win ₱10,000, and more exclusive rewards during the promo period.

    Martin Yu, Director at Shopee Philippines, said, “With the launch of our inaugural ShopeePay Cashless Festival, Shopee encourages more consumers to adopt digital payments for a safer, more rewarding, and seamless shopping experience. Filipinos are slowly embracing a more cashless lifestyle, and Shopee is excited to be at the forefront of this evolution. We remain committed to providing easy access to a wide range of digital payment options such as ShopeePay to cater to Filipinos’ evolving needs.”

    Key highlights of the ShopeePay Cashless Festival:

    From January 21-28, ShopeePay users can redeem these deals and rewards when they activate and top up their e-wallet:

    ● Free shipping: During the promo period, users who activate their ShopeePay wallets for the first time can enjoy a free shipping voucher with no minimum spend. New free shipping vouchers with a minimum spend of ₱149 will also be released daily.
    ● Coins cashback from participating shops: Shoppers can look forward to 20% coins cashback on categories such as gadgets, home and living, mom essentials, and sports and motors.
    ● Bills payment coins cashback: From January 21-27, ShopeePay users get 15% cashback capped at 120 coins when they pay their bills with a minimum spend of ₱800. On January 28, they can get 20% cashback capped at 160 coins with a minimum spend of ₱800.
    ● Deals Near Me: ShopeePay users get to enjoy ₱1 deals, up to 50% off on e-vouchers, and up to 15% coins cashback capped at 60 coins.
    ● Flash deals on mobile load and data: Throughout the week, shoppers can buy ₱100 worth of load/data for only ₱90. On January 25 and 28, users should be on the lookout for flash deals such as ₱10 load/data for ₱6, ₱15 load/data for ₱9, and ₱20 load/data for ₱12.
    ● Grand prize worth ₱10,000: There are two ways to win ₱10,000: users simply have to either top-up at least ₱300, or transfer ₱1. All users can also get rewards in the form of Shopee coins or vouchers.
    ● Play & Win on Shopee Live: Score up to ₱20,000 worth of ShopeePay credits by joining Play & Win ShopeePay Edition on weekdays, every 5:00-6:30 PM.
    ● Tutok to Win: All successful callers on Wowowin’s Tutok to Win will receive ShopeePay credits worth ₱5,000 each, on top of the usual cash prize of ₱20,000.

    For more information on the ShopeePay Cashless Festival, visit https://shopee.ph/m/shopee-pay.

    Download the Shopee app for free via the App Store or Google Play.

    REFERENCE:

    Paulo Oga
    PH Marketing | Public Relations, Media Relations

    Mobile/ Viber/ Whatsapp +63 917 650 1835

    Address 15F Asian Century Center, 27th St. corner 3rd and 4th Ave., BGC, Taguig, PH 1634

  • Samsung Electronics Debuts 2021 Neo QLED and Lifestyle TV Line, Highlighting Commitment to Sustainable and Accessible Future

    Samsung Electronics Debuts 2021 Neo QLED and Lifestyle TV Line, Highlighting Commitment to Sustainable and Accessible Future

    Samsung Electronics recently unveiled its 2021 portfolio of Neo QLED and Lifestyle TV displays during its first-ever virtual First Look event, ahead of the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2021. The new line underscores Samsung’s commitment to accessibility, sustainability, and innovation with new advancements that help redefine the role of television in consumer homes.

    “During the past year, we have witnessed the pivotal role technology played in helping us carry on with our lives and stay connected with each other,” said JH Han, President of Visual Display Business at Samsung Electronics. “Our commitment to an inclusive and sustainable future goes hand-in-hand with our relentless pursuit for innovation to meet consumers’ ever-changing needs – from reducing the carbon footprint of our products, to providing a suite of accessibility features, to offering an unparalleled viewing experience that fits each user’s lifestyle.”

    A Sustainable and Accessible Future for All

    Over the next few years, Samsung will embark on a journey of “Going Green” in aligning TV business operations through the following long-term sustainability programs:

    • Reducing Carbon Footprint and Improving Energy Efficiency: Samsung will seek to systematically decrease its overall carbon footprint in TV manufacturing. The company will also seek to lower user power consumption and use more recycled materials across its entire TV line.
    • Sustainable Packaging Design: Building on valuable consumer feedback, Samsung is expanding its award-winning ‘Eco-packaging’ design to all 2021 Lifestyle TVs and most of the 2021 Neo QLED line. This sustainable solution can upcycle up to 200,000 tons of corrugated boxes each year.1 By minimizing text and graphic imagery on the Eco-packaging, the oil-based ink from color printing that’s traditionally used on TV boxes is eliminated, helping to further reduce waste.
    • Solar Cell Remote Control: In 2021, Samsung TVs will come with a solar-powered remote control that can be recharged by indoor light, outdoor light or USB—a first-of-its-kind innovation for the brand. This will help prevent waste from a projected 99 million AAA batteries over seven years.2 To construct the remote, Samsung innovated manufacturing process that upcycles plastics from recyclable bottles –including 24% recycled content.3

    Samsung’s 2021 accessibility features – now available on all 2021 QLED and Neo QLED models – bring the latest advances in technology and Artificial Intelligence (AI) to help more people comfortably enjoy their TV experience. The 2021 line adds new features such as Caption Moving, Sign Language Zoom and Multi-Output Audio, giving those with difficulty of hearing, the deaf, people with low vision, and the blind, the ability to optimize their viewing to their needs and preferences. By 2022, Samsung is committing to expand its Voice Guide feature—which provides audio guidance for the deaf and people afflicted with low vision. On top of this, Samsung will continue to develop new AI based features to further enhance the accessibility of Samsung TVs in the years to come.

    Neo QLED Takes a Quantum Leap in TV Display Technology

    Samsung is introducing a whole new display technology, Neo QLED, to its flagship 8K (QN900A) and 4K (QN90A) models. Samsung is taking QLED to the next level enabled by new light source, Quantum Mini LED precisely controlled by Quantum Matrix Technology and Neo Quantum Processor, a powerful picture processor optimized for Neo QLED.

    Samsung designed the Quantum Mini LED to be 1/40 the height of a conventional LED. Instead of using a lens to disperse light, and a package to fix the LED in place, the Quantum Mini LED has incredibly thin micro layers filled with many more LEDs. Quantum Matrix Technology enables ultra-fine and precise control of the densely packed LEDs, preventing blooming—and allowing viewers to enjoy content as it’s meant to be seen. Neo QLED increases the luminance scale to 12-bit with 4096 steps; this helps make dark areas darker and bright areas brighter, resulting in a more precise and immersive HDR experience. Neo QLED likewise benefits from Samsung’s proprietary, powerful Neo Quantum Processor with enhanced upscaling capabilities. By using up to 16 different neural network models, each trained in AI upscaling and deep learning technology, the Neo Quantum Processor can optimize picture quality to 4K and 8K picture output regardless of the input quality.

    Samsung’s 2021 Neo QLED 8K features a new Infinity One Design—a nearly bezel-less screen providing an even more immersive viewing experience in a sleek design and form factor. Neo QLED 8K’s attachable Slim One Connect box—an all-new cable management system that can be attached to the TV’s back—allows for an easier install and cleaner aesthetic. The 2021 Neo QLED 8K also packs in several premium, room-filling audio features; Object Tracking Sound (OTS) Pro’s dynamic sound corresponds to the movement of objects on screen, and the SpaceFit Sound analyzes the installed TV’s physical environment and outputs immersive sound tailored specifically to the space.

    The latest Samsung Neo QLED TVs will be reaching Philippine shores within this year. The SRPs will be announced upon its availability in the country.

    Enhancing the Award-Winning Lifestyle TV Portfolio

    Samsung is also making enhancements to its 2021 Lifestyle TV line with new design and form factors to reflect the changing interests and tastes of consumers. Since launching in 2017, The Frame has redefined the television, transforming displays into stunning works of art, with over one million units sold.

    The 2021 version builds on The Frame’s innovative legacy, offering a more customizable experience in a slimmer form. The Frame is about half thinner4 compared to previous iterations, mirroring the depth of a traditional picture frame. New attachable bezel options come in five color options and two different customizable styles—Modern and Beveled—to match the aesthetic of whatever room The Frame is in.

    With a subscription to The Frame’s all-new Art Store, consumers will be able to enjoy 1,400+ carefully curated pieces. Samsung’s new AI-based auto-curation technology better analyzes individual consumer preferences to recommend artwork.

    With near-endless options for customization, Samsung’s lifestyle TV portfolio including The Frame, The Serif, The Terrace and The Premiere immediately upgrade the décor of any home.

    For more information on Samsung’s 2021 TV lines, please visit https://www.samsung.com/.

    1 Based on internal research.

    2 Based on internal research. Results may vary upon usage circumstances.

    3 Based on internal research.

    4 46% slimmer than the previous models.

    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, smartphones, wearable devices, tablets, digital appliances, network systems, and memory, system LSI, foundry and LED solutions. For the latest news, please visit the Samsung Newsroom at http://news.samsung.com.

    REFERENCE:

    JEAN RICELLE A. AQUINO

    Sr. Media Relations Officer

    StratWorks, Inc.

    0927 027 8975

  • Samsung Electronics Appoints New President & CEO for Southeast Asia & Oceania

    Samsung Electronics Appoints New President & CEO for Southeast Asia & Oceania

    A Samsung veteran with over three decades of experience, Mr. Sangho Jo most recently led Samsung Electronics Europe and returned to the Southeast Asia & Oceania region

    January 5, 2021 – Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. today announced the appointment of Mr. Sangho Jo as President and CEO of Southeast Asia & Oceania.

    A proven Samsung leader with over three decades of experience across business groups and geographies, Mr. Jo will steer the strategic growth directions of Samsung Electronics in Southeast Asia & Oceania.

    Markets in Southeast Asia & Oceania are integral to Samsung Electronics’ long-term growth plans, with the region poised to sustain its rapid economic growth into the next decade, built on the digital ambitions of its cities, industries and communities. Mr. Jo will guide the business towards cementing its industry leadership and seizing long-term growth opportunities in this region by forging partnerships, creating operational excellence, and ultimately, building brand trust amongst consumers and enterprises.

    He was most recently appointed President and CEO for Samsung Electronics in Europe, where he led the business to achieve sustainable commercial growth and brand favorability in 2020. In the past decade, Mr. Jo has served as President in the following markets: Samsung Electronics Germany (2019), United Kingdom (2015 – 2017), Sweden (2012 – 2014), Austria (2011), Baltic countries (2009 – 2010), and also served as Head of Visual Display business for Samsung Europe based in South Korea (2017 – 2018).

    Mr. Jo is not new to the Southeast Asia & Oceania region, having worked in Samsung Electronics Singapore (1997), Vietnam (1998 – 2000) and Malaysia (2007 – 2008). He said: “I am pleased to return to Southeast Asia and Oceania, and lead one of the vibrant leading hubs for Samsung Electronics globally. I look forward to strengthening the strong relationships we have built with our partners and customers here and explore exciting new consumer and commercial partnerships, steering Samsung into the next stage of growth in the region.”  

    Image Description: Sangho Jo – President and CEO of Samsung Electronic Europe Client: Samsung Date Taken: 14th July 2020 Picture credit: Stuart Bailey Commercial, Advertising, and Lifestyle Photographer Web: www.StuartBaileyPhoto.com Email: contact@stuartbaileyphoto.com

    “In an era defined by rapid digital disruptions, we are committed to empowering the digital ambitions of nations, industries and communities in Southeast Asia and Oceania, and to help fulfil the potential of the people here through next-generation technologies,” he added.  

    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, smartphones, wearable devices, tablets, digital appliances, network systems, and memory, system LSI, foundry and LED solutions. For the latest news, please visit the Samsung Newsroom at http://news.samsung.com.

    REFERENCE:

    JEAN RICELLE A. AQUINO

    Sr. Media Relations Officer

    StratWorks, Inc.

    0927 027 8975

  • Better IT career opportunities, win cash prizes while learning enterprise computing

    Better IT career opportunities, win cash prizes while learning enterprise computing

    SAN FRANCISCO, CA – Forrester research found that careers in enterprise computing offer better salaries and more rewarding than other careers in information technology. Large enterprises are looking to hire students who can bring their own innovative ideas and passion while leveraging the company’s existing technological investments.

    “71% of Fortune 500 companies use IBM Z mainframes, 90% of credit card transactions globally are processed through mainframes, and 92 of the top 100 banks use mainframe technology,” according to Pat Toole, System Z General Manager at IBM.

    Master the Mainframe is a virtual coding competition designed for students ages 13 years old and above at any experience level to learn the foundations of mainframe programming. Powered by IBM, it is one of the world’s largest student competitions where participants can practice their new set of coding skills, implement it in a real-world challenge, connect with employers, earn recognized digital badges, scholarships, t-shirts, travel, and mentorship from mainframe professionals at industry events.

    The program let students win amazing prizes, while developing critical skills which are in hot demand by the world’s largest and most respected companies. There is no experience required and it can help them land a career in Fortune 500 companies, and just requires a desire to expand skillset! This is the easiest way to provide students hands-on experience with this industry critical technology and earn open badges along the way which they can add to their resume and differentiate themselves among the rest.

    Through three interactive levels, students will have access to a mainframe and get skilled up on the foundations of mainframe, including JCL, Ansible, Python, Unix, COBOL, and REXX, all through Visual Studio Code. Round it all out with a grand challenge where students can craft their own fully-equipped mainframe creation.

    “This is a fantastic opportunity for technology students to try something different, and explore a potential career path,” Julie Gauthier, Director of Technology Business Development at AngelHack said.

    IBM shall feed two children in the Share the Meal program of the United Nations World Food Programme for every student finishing level one.

    Get started today at bit.ly/MastertheMainframeAPAC and open doors to new opportunities with Fortune 500 companies. Contest deadline is on Sunday, January 17, 2021. Non-students are also eligible to earn digital badges.

    About AngelHack

    For over six years, AngelHack has been the leader in innovation; introducing hackathons, virtual competitions, accelerator programs, Meetups, and various developer initiatives to over 100 cities around the globe. AngelHack, a female-owned, female-majority company, encourages their diverse community of 150,000+ developers, designers, and entrepreneurs to become holistic and well-rounded hackers. AngelHack believes in providing entrepreneurs with emerging technologies and the best mentors, resulting in the creation of seamless technology both inside and out of the Silicon Valley bubble. Through their nonprofit arm, Code For A Cause, AngelHack challenges their community to build code that positively impacts the world and promotes an inclusive environment. Find out more at angelhack.com

    Reference & Contact

    Michael Lance M. Domagas
    mike@angelhack.com