Retail News CRM

Author: Mei Ling Tan

  • Apple could be introducing three new iPad models this coming Tuesday

    Apple could be introducing three new iPad models this coming Tuesday

    Many assumed that after unveiling the new iPhone 15 series, the Apple Watch Series 9, and the Apple Watch Ultra 2 last month, we wouldn’t be seeing Apple release any more hardware in 2023. But there could be one last squeeze of the toothpaste tube left by the gang in Cupertino resulting in an announcement that would reveal three new iPad tablets, according to Supercharged. We could also see a new Apple Pencil with USB-C charging.

    The report cites a source “familiar with Apple’s media plans” who says that this Tuesday, October 17th, Apple will introduce a new entry-level iPad, an M2-powered iPad Air, and a new iPad mini. The entry-level iPad would be the 11th generation model replacing the 10th generation iPad which was announced in October 2022. The new iPad Air should come with an upgrade in the form of a faster M2 chip. The previous iPad Air, the first to use an M-series chip, was announced in March 2022.

    The new iPad Air, rumored to be announced this Tuesday, will supposedly be powered by a powerful M2 Apple Silicon chip.

    Also rumored to be announced on Tuesday is the iPad mini 7 which could be powered by the A16 Bionic chipset, the same one that currently is used to run the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus models. Additionally, the new iPad mini 7 will do away with the “jelly scrolling” flaw that causes the left side of the screen to lag while the right side moves at a normal pace. All three tablets are expected to receive minor boosts in specs.

    Apple is not expected to put on a big show for the release of the new iPads as an announcement will be made by the company on YouTube and through its newsroom site. If you hope the announcement will include a new iPad Pro, you’re early. The OLED iPad Pro models are expected to become official during the second half of 2024.

    This makes sense since Apple’s Vision Pro spatial computer will dominate the first half of the year. We expect the new iPad Pro model to be offered with an 11-inch and a 13-inch display.

    Ever since the pandemic ended, tablet sales have dropped. Apple saw a surge in iPad sales when many worked from home and students attended virtual classes. Perhaps an injection of fresh new iPad models will stimulate Apple’s tablet sales.

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  • September auto sales hits 6-month high

    September auto sales hits 6-month high

    Vietnam’s auto sales in September hit their highest peak since March, totaling 25,375 units, demonstrating a slight increase in demand.

    But the figure for the period is still a 24% year-on-year drop, according to the Vietnam Automobile Manufacturers Association (VAMA).

    In the first nine months sales dropped 29% year-on-year to 209,929 units.

    Truong Hai Auto Corporation (Thaco) sold more cars here than any other firm, totaling 67,228 units in the period, down 34% year-on-year.

    Toyota followed with 38,490 units, down 40%.

    Ford bucked the trend with 71% growth to 26,484 units.

    Mitsubishi and Honda rounded out the top five.

    Industry insiders said that the rise in September sales came as a batch of new models were released in August and many dealers offered large promotions to boost demand.

    Customers also want to take advantage of a reduction in registration fee, which will only last until the end of the year.

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  • Ikea sticks with China despite slowing economy

    Ikea sticks with China despite slowing economy

    China is still a key growth market for budget furniture retailer IKEA despite the world’s second-largest economy showing signs of strain, executives at the biggest IKEA store owner said on Thursday (Oct 12).

    China was for several years the fifth biggest market by revenue for Ingka, which runs most IKEA stores globally, but it has now slipped to tenth position, accounting for 3.6 per cent of global sales in its 2023 financial year, which ended Aug. 31.

    Ingka Group remains committed to China, CEO Jesper Brodin told Reuters, even as some Western companies are seeking to reduce their exposure to the country whose post-pandemic recovery has been sluggish.

    “There is no middle way, you have to either believe and invest or you don’t, and in our case we are committed to China and the growth and development,” Brodin, who visited China last month, said in an interview.

    China’s weight as a market for Ingka Group has diminished: in the 2022 financial year it made up 4.3 per cent of global sales, while as recently as 2018 it accounted for 6 per cent, the same share as the UK. The company has 37 IKEA stores in China, out of a total of 537 locations worldwide.

    Ingka Group overall saw 697 million visits to its IKEA stores in the 2023 financial year, up 7.4 per cent from the previous year. The rate of increase was much higher in China, Brodin said, as stores reopened and shoppers returned.

    Ingka sees potential for China to make it back into its top five markets, based on sales in recent weeks.

    China’s sheer size makes it a key opportunity, said Tolga Oncu, head of IKEA Retail at Ingka Group.

    “Considering the size of the home furnishing industry in China and our existing market share, I am not, from the IKEA point of view, concerned so much about what’s happening in the macroeconomics,” Oncu said.

    He shrugged off economic data showing weaker consumer demand and high youth unemployment in China.

    “Normally in these circumstances, IKEA outperforms the rest,” Oncu said.

    China is also a key market for new retail technologies, Brodin said. As social media livestreaming as a shopping channel booms in China, he said Ingka is experimenting with live shopping there and plans to expand it to all its markets.

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  • Unleashing the Potential of Affiliate Marketing in Asia With Indoleads 

    Unleashing the Potential of Affiliate Marketing in Asia With Indoleads 

    Affiliate marketing has emerged as a thriving digital marketing strategy in Asia, harnessing the region’s rapid technological advancements and growing e-commerce landscape. Let’s explore the multifaceted realm of affiliate marketing and how you can take advantage of it being a business owner or an aspiring affiliate marketer with an audience in Southeast Asia. 

    What is affiliate marketing everyone is talking about?

    Affiliate marketing is a performance-based marketing strategy in which companies (also called “merchants” or “advertisers”) reward affiliate marketers (also called “affiliates” or “publishers”) for promoting their products or services and driving desired actions, such as sales, leads, or conversions. 

    Here’s how affiliate marketing typically works:

    The affiliate marketer joins the advertiser’s affiliate program (also called “offer”) and starts promoting their products or services using various marketing channels, such as their website, blog, social media, email marketing, or paid advertising. They include their unique affiliate links in their promotional content and earn commissions for every targeted action performed by a new user or existing user, depending on the terms of the particular offer. 

    Although a lot of companies manage their affiliate programs by themselves, most of the world-known brands prefer working via reputable affiliate networks, like Indoleads. It’s much more efficient and allows businesses to focus on their operations rather than frowning over how to attract the best publishers. And it goes both ways – it’s much easier and less time-consuming for affiliates to work with a reliable network.  

    Here are some of major benefits for both businesses and affiliates to work via affiliate networks:

    • Expanded reach

    Affiliate networks have a vast network of affiliates, including influencers, bloggers, content creators, and website owners. For example, Indoleads has 60 000+ affiliates from all over the world with a variety of traffic resources. Partnering with an affiliate network allows businesses to tap into this extensive network and reach a broader audience that they might not have been able to reach otherwise.

    Affiliate networks act as intermediaries between affiliates and multiple businesses offering affiliate programs. Affiliates can browse through a wide selection of programs and choose the ones that align with their niche, interests, and target audience. This variety provides affiliates with more opportunities to find suitable products or services to promote. 

    • Streamlined management

    Affiliate networks provide a centralized platform for businesses to manage their affiliate programs. They handle various administrative tasks such as tracking affiliate activities, monitoring performance, and processing payments. This streamlines the management process and saves businesses time and resources.

    Also, affiliate networks simplify the payment process for affiliates. Instead of managing payments from multiple businesses individually, affiliates receive consolidated payments from the affiliate network. This streamlines the payment process, reduces administrative hassle, and ensures timely and reliable payments.

    • Access to quality affiliates and affiliate programs

    Affiliate networks often have a rigorous vetting process for affiliates, ensuring that they meet certain quality standards. This helps businesses partner with reputable affiliates who have demonstrated the ability to generate results and maintain professional standards.

    Similarly, affiliates get access to high quality hand-picked affiliate programs. For example, Indoleads collaborates only with reliable advertisers, that’s why its affiliates enjoy working with the most trusted companies and brands.  

    • Efficient tracking and reporting

    Affiliate networks offer robust tracking and reporting systems. They provide businesses with detailed insights into affiliate performance, conversion rates, sales data, and other key metrics. This data allows businesses to evaluate the effectiveness of their affiliate program and make data-driven decisions to optimize their campaigns.

    Access to accurate and real-time data helps affiliates analyze their results, identify successful strategies, and make informed decisions to optimize their marketing efforts. 

    • Customer care

    Affiliate networks often provide support, guidance, and resources to both businesses and affiliates, fostering a collaborative environment. This includes guides, and professional advice on various aspects of affiliate marketing. Indoleads’ affiliate managers are always there to offer assistance in optimizing affiliate campaigns and advise on traffic monetization. The blog contains a lot of useful information on digital marketing and e-commerce in different countries. 

    E-commerce Boom and Affiliate Marketing

    Southeast Asia is home to a population exceeding 492 million individuals and boasts over 400 million active internet users. In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic prompted more than 40 million people in the region to engage in their first online purchases. Projected to reach $300 billion by 2025, Southeast Asia is the fastest-growing e-commerce market globally. M-commerce is experiencing significant growth in the region too. According to eMarketer, it is projected that by 2022, m-commerce will account for 80.33% of all e-commerce in the Asia-Pacific region.

    The expansion of e-commerce in the region can be attributed to the presence of major e-commerce marketplaces. Prominent online platforms like Lazada, Tokopedia, and Shopee dominate the Southeast Asian market, offering consumers access to a wide range of products across various categories. These platforms enable consumers to conveniently purchase almost any product they desire. 

    Asia’s e-commerce boom has played a pivotal role in the proliferation of affiliate marketing. As a result, businesses turned to affiliate marketing to enhance brand visibility, drive customer acquisition, and boost sales. No wonder all Southeast Asian e-commerce giants – Shopee, Lazada, Zalora, Tiki have their affiliate programs, which are available at Indoleads. 

    As e-commerce in Southeast Asia is set for even bigger success, this is the best time to start making your first steps in affiliate marketing whether you’re a business owner or you have a marketing channel and want to make your online presence profitable. Affiliate marketing is a great way to  monetize your content and engage with your audience through high quality affiliate programs. 

    But how to maintain the high quality of affiliate programs you’re running or the traffic you’re gaining through publishers?

    The answer is simple – Indoleads affiliate network!

    Why working with Indoleads? 

    Indoleads is a premium CPA network with 60 000+ affiliates and hand-curated affiliate programs from over 180 countries. Based in Malaysia and having offices in 5 other countries and regions, Indoleads has gathered the best digital marketing specialists who have years of experience in driving profitable growth for both brands and affiliates. 

    The network primarily focuses on e-commerce, online education, software, travel, and finance. Additionally, it actively develops other profitable niches like mobile offers, games, and dating.

    Indoleads has a diverse clientele consisting of major international and local brands. 2000+ affiliate programs are already on the platform, including legendary Shopee, Lazada, Zalora, and many others.

    If you’re waiting for a sign to get your hands on affiliate marketing – that’s it! Join Indoleads to start shaping the future of your online presence right now.

     

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  • Hendrick’s unveils latest addition to its Cabinet of Curiosities series

    Hendrick’s unveils latest addition to its Cabinet of Curiosities series

    Hendrick’s Gin has introduced its latest creation from the Cabinet of Curiosities series, Flora Adora.

    The Cabinet of Curiosities is the brand’s series of limited-edition gin releases known for their unique botanical combinations and unconventional flavors.

    Crafted at the Hendrick’s Gin Palace in Scotland, the new gin departs from traditional profiles, featuring ingredients like juniper and coriander combined with cucumber and rose to deliver a “refreshing and balanced taste experience”.

    “To welcome a magical and immersive experience, try a tantalizing floral fusion with the Flora Adora Wildgarden Cup,” suggests James McRae, brand ambassador for Hendrick’s Gin.

    “A balanced medley of fresh mint, cooling cucumber, and juicy raspberries lengthened with a refreshing lemon soda.”

    Hendrick’s Flora Adora is available for an RRP of $86 in Dan Murphy’s BWS, Liquorland and First Choice stores nationwide.

  • Hunt and Brew launches Ethiopia-sourced cold brew black coffee

    Hunt and Brew launches Ethiopia-sourced cold brew black coffee

    Coffee maker Hunt and Brew has launched its new single-origin cold brew black coffee without added sugar.

    The company sources the beans of the new cold brew black coffee from Yirgacheffe, Ethiopia. The product will be sold in 400ml bottles in Coles supermarkets starting October 16 and in Woolworths supermarkets in Western Australia beginning November 6.

    It will also be available in select independent and convenience stores.

    “Our new Ethiopia Cold Brew Black Coffee caters to an emerging consumer segment that’s seeking dairy-free alternatives and healthier beverage choices,” said Jake Calabrese, brand manager at Hunt and Brew.

    “It’s also perfect for busy professionals on the lookout for quality and convenience in their lives.”

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  • Malaysia’s Role in the Global Forex Market

    Malaysia’s Role in the Global Forex Market

    Discover how Malaysia is making vast changes in the currency market.

    Due to today’s technology, foreign exchange trading is now a global sensation available in almost every country.

    People worldwide participate in their local markets and shape the economy. One such example is Malaysia.

    But the Forex market is not only about currencies; people can trade in the price of oil, such as the XTIUSD pair, and much more.

    This article will cover how their action to, as Malaysians like to say it, convert matawang (currency) shapes the global market.

    How Does Malaysia’s Forex Market Look Like?

    All Forex markets have a regulatory system.

    Such is the case in Malaysia with their regulations. The regulatory system and a few other aspects mainly regulate the shape and growth of the market.

    Institutional Control

    Malaysia’s regulatory environment is primarily governed by Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM), the country’s central bank.

    BNM is critical in safeguarding the currency market’s stability and integrity. It creates regulations and standards and oversees the operations of Malaysian financial institutions and forex brokers.

    Regulatory Reforms that are Progressive

    In recent years, Malaysia has aggressively implemented regulatory changes to align its currency market with global norms.

    These changes include initiatives to increase transparency, risk management methods, and the efficiency of forex trading operations.

    Since its deregulation, retail traders and overseas investors have increased their engagement in Malaysia’s currency market.

    Currency Controls and Malaysian Ringgit Management

    The Malaysian Ringgit (MYR), the country’s currency, is closely monitored by Bank Negara Malaysia.

    It imposes currency restrictions and steps to manage Malaysian ringgit exchange rates, guaranteeing economic stability.

    The emphasis on MYR management impacts trading behavior in the forex market, making it critical for traders to monitor economic data and MYR-related policy moves regularly.

    Compliance with regulations and trader protection

    Malaysian regulations likewise promote trader protection. Forex brokers operating nationwide are subject to stringent compliance measures, such as capital adequacy and customer money segregation.

    These safeguards protect traders’ interests while lowering the possibility of fraudulent activity in the FX market.

    The Malaysian Ringgit in Forex

    As the foreign exchange market is mostly about currency, the Malaysian Ringgit is crucial to the functioning of the market.

    Let’s examine the key factors that make the MYR appealing to investors.

    MYR Exchange Rate Factors

    A complex interplay of economic, geopolitical, and market considerations impacts the exchange rate movements of the Malaysian Ringgit.

    Malaysia’s economic stability, trading links with neighboring nations, and volatility in global commodity prices impact MYR exchange rates.

    Furthermore, Malaysian political stability and more significant Southeast Asian economic trends might influence MYR performance in the FX market.

    To make sound judgments, traders interested in MYR currency pairings must be watchful and knowledgeable about these complex elements.

    MYR Trading Strategies

    Adopting appropriate trading methods is critical for traders hoping to capitalize on the MYR’s potential in their forex operations.

    The Malaysian Ringgit’s distinct qualities, response to specific economic indicators, and linkages with other currencies demand specialist methodologies.

    Some traders prefer MYR pairings because of their reduced volatility, while others take advantage of the currency’s sensitivity to commodities like palm oil and rubber.

    Understanding these subtleties and developing well-informed methods are critical for success when dealing with the Malaysian Ringgit in the volatile world of FX trading.

    Malaysian Forex Traders and Brokers

    The country’s impact on the world market is primarily due to its skilled forex traders and brokers.

    Although often underestimated, Malaysia’s FX market is quite developed and shines in the following aspects.

    Diverse Trading Community

    A diversified and active group of traders is at the core of Malaysia’s forex scene.

    Malaysian traders range from individual retail traders looking for opportunities in the foreign exchange market to institutional participants dealing with high quantities of currency trading.

    The variety has resulted in a thriving trading environment in which many methods, approaches, and tastes converge.

    Local and International Brokers

    Local brokers, often regulated by Malaysian authorities, provide traders with a thorough grasp of local market dynamics and MYR-related trading possibilities.

    On the other hand, international brokers provide a worldwide perspective by giving access to a broader selection of currency pairings, innovative trading platforms, and diversified financial instruments.

    Malaysian traders may choose from diverse brokerages, adapting their choices to their unique trading objectives and risk tolerances.

    Support and Education

    Brokers’ instructional offerings serve both newbie and seasoned Malaysian traders.

    These resources may include webinars, seminars, market research, and trading tools to help them improve their abilities and make better decisions.

    Many brokers also provide customer support in their native languages, offering accessibility and guidance for traders of various skill levels.

    Conclusion

    Malaysia’s impact on the global currency market is a testament to its evolution as a critical player in the ever-expanding world of forex trading.

    Through robust regulatory reforms, a focus on currency management, and a thriving community of traders and brokers, Malaysia has positioned itself as a noteworthy contributor to the global financial landscape.

    As the forex market continues to transcend, borders and technology facilitate broader participation, and Malaysia’s role underscores the interconnected nature of the financial world.

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  • The North Face PARKA Celebrates 50 Years of Exploration

    The North Face PARKA Celebrates 50 Years of Exploration

    The year 2023 marks the 50th anniversary of The North Face’s iconic PARKA, inviting explorers to revisit their adventures in the snow and enjoy the view from the summit.

    Born in 1973, The North Face PARKA Collection was created by professional expeditioners after they conducted tests during their excursions in the Brooks Range. In the past 50 years, the PARKA has accompanied explorers as they scaled high peaks and traversed treacherous glaciers, from exploring the Antarctic and reaching the summit of Everest to speeding down the world’s highest skiing descent and much more, becoming their most trusted companion when they need to “Face the North Face”. To celebrate the PARKA’s 50th anniversary, The North Face presents the new Hmlyn Parka and Triclimate Jacket, fusing cutting-edge technology and classic elements, and paying homage to the spirit of exploration.

    Located at the north side of Mount Everest, “the north face” has always been considered one of the toughest and most challenging mountain routes to conquer. With the determination to “Face The North Face”, we hope to encourage explorers to not only challenge themselves on steep mountains, but also to search within and spread their wings when faced with adversity. The North Face is continuously seeking breakthroughs in innovation, striving to create the best gear and accompany more explorers as they overcome their own “north face”.

    As one of The North Face’s most iconic and proven outdoor exploration items, the PARKA is created with meticulous craftsmanship to demonstrate excellent thermal and protective performance, helping countless explorers withstand even the harshest environments. The new 2023 The North Face Hmlyn Down Parka combines the know-how and technology of the past 50 years. Featuring lofty RDS approved 550-fill goose down, Windwall™️ materials with high windproof functions and a DWR water-repellent finish, the jacket provides the ultimate in functionality for explorers to unleash their potential. In a reinvention of the classic, the design features a collision of black and purple gradients that forms a fashionable silhouette, showcasing explorers’ tenacity and never-give-up spirit.

    In addition, The North Face Triclimate Jacket integrates essences of the brand’s most advanced technology. It adopts a recyclable GORE-TEX material with a water-repellent coating, allowing explorers to navigate the ever changing weather. The jacket also features an adjustable three-piece hood, which ensures a warm head and neck. The unique layering system lets explorers mix and match according to the weather. The outer jacket adopts a DWR water-resistant finish to achieve both windproof and waterproof. The 550-fill down feature on the inner jacket also provides explorers with the ultimate heat-retention. The jackets can be layered or worn separately, so explorers can adjust to severe weather conditions with ease. The Triclimate Jacket can provide maximum warmth for explorers in harsh outdoor circumstances, empowering them to push their limits

    Face the North Face, never stop exploring. Be it outdoor adventures or daily urban explorations, The North Face will accompany explorers’ every journey and capture their most memorable moments. The North Face PARKA Collection is now available at The North Face Concept Stores and Exploration Concept Store. The North Face will continue to adhere to the brand spirit of “Never Stop Exploring”, incorporating innovative design elements into classic designs and embarking on new adventures into the unknown.

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  • Bonne Maman expands range with new Hazelnut Chocolate Spread

    Bonne Maman expands range with new Hazelnut Chocolate Spread

    French jam maker Bonne Maman is expanding its range of spreads with the latest addition to its Australian product line, the Bonne Maman Hazelnut Chocolate Spread.

    The new spread comes in its iconic glass jar with a red gingham lid and is made with all-natural ingredients. It contains 20 percent hazelnuts, gently roasted and combined with cocoa to provide a velvety texture. Moreover, it is free from palm oil.

    The brand recommends using the spread on sourdough, toast, croissants, or brioche. Its soft texture can also be warmed as a sauce over desserts, ice cream, biscuits, or milk to make hot chocolate.

    “Bonne Maman Hazelnut Chocolate Spread makes a wonderfully satisfying snack any time of the day,” said the company.

    Bonne Maman Hazelnut Chocolate Spread is available for an RRP of $8 in Coles, Woolworths, and leading supermarkets nationwide.

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  • Gasoline prices down after 2 months

    Gasoline prices down after 2 months

    Gasoline and diesel prices declined in Vietnam Wednesday afternoon, following a similar trend globally.

    The popular RON 95-III dropped 7.24% to VND23,040 ($0.94) per liter.

    Biofuel E5 RON92 fell 6.8% to VND21,900 ($0,90).

    Diesel decreased by 5% to VND22,410.

    The average price of RON 92 dropped 1.5%, to $86.78 per barrel, while RON 95 fell 1.8%. to $91.59 per barrel. Diesel also declined by 0.5% to $92.16.

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  • Domino’s Pizza hits 1000 store milestone in Japan

    Domino’s Pizza hits 1000 store milestone in Japan

    Domino’s Pizza Enterprises (DPE) has reached a mega 1000 stores in Japan. This milestone makes the Japanese market the largest by store footprint for DPE. It is also the third largest Domino’s market outside of the US, after India and the UK.

    Domino’s entered the Japanese market in 1985 and DE bought a majority stake in 2013.

    Four years later the Aussie-based business acquired the remaining 25 percent.

    DE group CEO and managing director Don Mei reflected on the majority investment a decade ago.

    “We knew Japan was an opportunity like no other, but pizza purchasing behaviour was quite different to our other market.”

    Pizza was viewed as a premium, occasion product rather than an everyday purchase.

    “At the time, Domino’s only operated in 17 of Japan’s 47 prefectures and only 43 of its 259 stores were franchised. We could see we had extremely experienced operators, but without the means to grow,” Meij said.

    Today local franchisees own and operate more than half (626) of the stores. APAC CEO Josh Kilimnik said “We’re seeing more store managers wanting to franchise and more franchisees wanting to become multi-unit franchisees.”

    An official ribbon-cutting ceremony marked the milestone event. The opening of the 100th store at Koto Furuishiba in Tokyo was attended by Mei and Kilimnik, along with the CEO of Domino’s Pizza Japan Martin Steenks and Domino’s Pizza Japan founder Ernest M Higa.

    “Reaching 1,000 stores is a very significant milestone, not only for Japan, but for Domino’s globally,” Meij said.

    “The team in Japan are continually inspiring us all with what’s possible – whether it’s raising the bar in operational excellence or creating some of the most exciting menu innovations on the planet. They have become true world leaders.”

    Kilimnik, who served as Domino’s Japan CEO and president between 2018 and 2022, commented on the key drivers of the business.

    He pointed to a revitalised menu with premium pizzas alongside a value offer, the implementation of a dynamic online ordering system, and investment in people.

    Domino’s Japan CEO Martin Steenks said the goal is to be the number one pizza company across all of Japan’s 47 prefectures. Currently it has the biggest store count in 30 prefectures.

    Steenks said.”We are very confident we will be celebrating 2,000 stores in Japan within the next decade.”

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  • Lazada Group and Seoul Business Agency sign strategic partnership

    Lazada Group and Seoul Business Agency sign strategic partnership

    Lazada Group and the Seoul Business Agency (SBA) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to allow South Korean SMEs to expand into the Southeast Asia market.

    The SBA will take the lead in promoting Lazada as a prominent Southeast Asian e-commerce marketplace destination among SMEs in Seoul under the terms of this partnership. The collaboration will begin in Singapore, where the SBA and Lazada will collaborate to onboard and nurture chosen new cross-border sellers from Seoul onto the Lazada Singapore platform.

    “This collaboration not only strengthens our commitment to offering buyers an extensive variety of products but also reinforces our dedication to fostering cross-border shopping and welcoming brands and sellers from across the globe to our e-commerce ecosystem,” said Jason Chen, chief business officer, Lazada Group and CEO, Lazada Singapore

    “South Korean SMEs have much to offer, and together with Seoul Business Agency, we aim to unlock their potential in Southeast Asia.”

    This agreement intends to expand chances for South Korean businesses and empower them to grow the Southeast Asian digital commerce arena by utilising Lazada’s technology, resources, and solutions. This will also broaden the selection of items and brand alternatives available to Lazada customers.

    According to Bloomberg, e-commerce behemoth Alibaba Group Holding spent an additional US$845 million on its Southeast Asia affiliate Lazada in July, despite the region’s tough competition.

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  • Update to iOS 17.1 brings an important change to the Action Button

    Update to iOS 17.1 brings an important change to the Action Button

    The iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max have the new Action Button above the volume rocker that replaced the Mute switch. With the new Pro models, the Action Button can be set to have a certain action take place when the button is pressed. To customize the button, the user goes to Settings > Action Button. The first Action that you can set the button to do is to act as a Silent mode switch that turns the Silent mode on or off which is exactly what the Mute switch used to do.

    Swipe to the left once and you get the next option, Focus, which silences notifications and filters out distractions. Other options appear as you swipe to the left including the ability to tap the button and open the camera, turn on the flashlight, start and stop recording a voice memo, use your phone as a magnifying glass, activate your favorite shortcut, use an accessibility feature, or have the Action Button take no action when pressed. When you find the Action option you want, just leave the appropriate icon showing on the image of the Action Button on the screen and leave the page.

    Cde discovered by 9to5Mac in iOS 17.1 beta 3, which was released to developers today, reveals that Apple is making a change to the Action Button. When the phone, using the proximity sensors, detects that it is in your pocket, the Action Button will require a longer press to activate. This prevents the feature from accidentally getting activated when the iPhone is inside your pocket.

    There is no setup required for the new feature to work and it will be automatically enabled for iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max users as soon as they install iOS 17.1 (once it is released). An accidental “pocket” activation of the Action Button on an iPhone 15 Pro series model could set off a shortcut that you’ve created that might disable the ringer, for example, turn off other features of the phone without you knowing, share your location and even share the last image you snapped.

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  • Tax collections from Meta, Google, TikTok soar

    Tax collections from Meta, Google, TikTok soar

    Sixty-seven cross-border digital platforms, including Meta, Google, TikTok, and Microsoft have paid taxes of VND5.8 trillion (US$241.7 million) so far this year compared with VND3.5 trillion for 2022.

    The General Department of Taxation said it would urge other foreign service providers who have yet to declare and pay taxes to do so, and upgrade its electronic information portal to facilitate online payment.

    As of Sept. 18 some 350 e-commerce platforms had provided tax authorities with information about 191,000 organizations and individuals that did a total of VND44.5 trillion worth of business through them.

    Tax collections in the first nine months stood at VND1,050 trillion, down 5% from the same period last year, according to the department.

    Taxes on crude oil were down 20% at VND46 trillion.

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  • Google Meet update adds 1080p video resolution for groups calls

    Google Meet update adds 1080p video resolution for groups calls

    After bringing the ability to install third-party add-ons directly within the app last month, Google Meet is now getting another useful feature that’s not really related to productivity: 1080p support for group calls.

    Previously only available for 1:1 Google Meet calls, full HD support is now being expanded to meetings with three or more participants. Those with 1080p cameras must select the higher resolution option before entering a meeting because it’s off by default.

    According to Google, 1080p is only sent when one or more users are pinning the 1080p-enabled user on a screen large enough to render the high-resolution video feed.

    For this to work smoothly, additional bandwidth will be needed to be able to send 1080p video. As expected, if the requirements aren’t met, the app will automatically adjust the resolution. Support for 1080p streaming in groups calls is now available on both Rapid and Scheduled Release domains.

    Google confirmed that the new feature is available for free to Google Workspace Business Standard, Business Plus, Enterprise Plus, Enterprise Essentials, Enterprise Standard, Enterprise Starter, Education Plus, and the Teaching and Learning Upgrade.

    The new feature is also available to Workspace Individual subscribers, but not to users with personal Google Accounts, at least for the moment.

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