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  • BYD Dominates Singapore’s New Car Market with Thriving Registration Numbers

    BYD Dominates Singapore’s New Car Market with Thriving Registration Numbers

    Singapore has witnessed a significant shift in its automotive landscape, with BYD solidifying its position as the city-state’s top car brand. Recent data from the Land Transport Authority, reveals an impressive 5.6 percentage point increase in BYD’s market share.

    In a competitive market featuring a total of 23,957 new car registrations, BYD stood out with 4,667 vehicles registered—a remarkable year-on-year surge of over 80%. In a world where change is the only constant, who would’ve guessed that the underdog would rise to the top so swiftly?

    Toyota, a longstanding titan in Singapore’s automotive sector, claimed second place with 3,461 new registrations, reflecting a 9.4% annual growth and capturing a 14.4% share of the new passenger car market, which is a slight increase of 0.5 percentage points. German luxury brands BMW and Mercedes-Benz followed closely, landing in third and fourth places with 2,664 and 2,537 vehicles registered, respectively. Rounding out the top five, Honda made notable strides with 2,268 registrations, marking a substantial 50.5% increase from last year.

    BYD’s dominance is no fleeting moment—since early this year, the company has shown strong traction, outselling Toyota with 3,002 vehicles to Toyota’s 2,050 in the first four months. This marks a significant transformation, as Toyota had held the crown with 7,876 units sold in 2024 compared to BYD’s 6,191.

    James Ng, the managing director at BYD Singapore and the Philippines, expressed confidence in the brand’s appeal during the recent launch of the Sealion 6 DM-i plug-in hybrid. He highlighted June as the brand’s stellar month, boasting 840 vehicles sold, according to AsiaOne.

    The Sealion 6 DM-i is now available for enthusiasts at a launch price of S$212,888 (US$165,500), which includes a guaranteed certificate of entitlement, a necessity in Singapore’s unique car-buying ecosystem.

    Questions & Answers

    What makes BYD’s rise in Singapore particularly striking?
    BYD’s extraordinary growth, with an over 80% increase in registrations compared to last year, contrasts sharply with the more modest gains seen from traditional market leaders like Toyota, making it a fascinating case study in the evolving automotive sector.

    How did Toyota perform in the latest new car registrations?
    Toyota maintained its status as a significant player, with 3,461 new vehicles registered, representing a 9.4% increase year-on-year, though falling behind BYD for the first time in recent history.

    What is notable about the Sealion 6 DM-i plug-in hybrid?
    The Sealion 6 DM-i is attracting attention not just for its hybrid efficiency, but also for its launch price of S$212,888, which includes a guaranteed certificate of entitlement—an essential aspect of owning a car in Singapore.

  • Steve Presley Takes Helm As CEO Of Refresco: A Strategic Move For Global Growth

    Steve Presley Takes Helm As CEO Of Refresco: A Strategic Move For Global Growth

    Refresco, a leading independent beverage solutions provider, has announced the appointment of Steve Presley as its new Chief Executive Officer. Presley will assume the role effective from August 4, spearheading the company’s global growth strategy and joining its executive board.

    Experienced Leadership

    Presley, a seasoned veteran in the food and beverage industry, brings nearly three decades of experience to his new role at Refresco. His most recent position was at Nestle, where he served as the executive Vice President and CEO of Zone Americas. His considerable industry experience, along with strong relations with retailers and brands, is expected to be a considerable asset for the company.

    James Cunningham, a partner at KKR and chairman of Refresco’s supervisory board, expressed his confidence in the appointment, remarking on Presley’s entrepreneurial spirit along with his extensive operational and financial expertise. He also highlighted Presley’s deep understanding of customer needs, which are likely to be key assets in Refresco’s mission to continue delivering exceptional beverage solutions globally.

    About Refresco

    As the world’s leading independent beverage solutions provider, Refresco caters to a broad range of clients, including global and national brands, as well as emerging brands and retailers. The company operates production facilities across Europe, North America, and Australia, offering a diverse selection of beverages. These range from soft drinks, juices, ready-to-drink teas, and mineral waters to energy drinks and plant-based beverages.

    Questions & Answers

    Who is the newly appointed CEO of Refresco?
    Steve Presley is the newly appointed CEO of Refresco. He will take on his new role from August 4.

    What experience does Steve Presley bring to Refresco?
    Presley brings nearly 30 years of experience in the food and beverage industry. He previously held the role of executive Vice President and CEO of Zone Americas at Nestle.

    What is Refresco’s area of expertise?
    Refresco is a leading independent beverage solutions provider, offering a wide range of beverages such as soft drinks, juices, ready-to-drink teas, mineral waters, energy drinks, and plant-based beverages. It operates production facilities across multiple continents including Europe, North America, and Australia.

  • Beauty Spaces” Redefine Consumer Habits Amid Stagnant Product Usage In 2024

    Beauty Spaces” Redefine Consumer Habits Amid Stagnant Product Usage In 2024

    The beauty landscape is witnessing a seismic shift in 2024, as consumers increasingly tailor their product choices to fit specific daily activities. Gone are the days of rigid beauty routines; today’s buyers are embracing flexibility, informed by their real-life experiences. According to Kantar’s Face Value report, individuals are selecting beauty products based on unique moments they face throughout the day, termed “Beauty Spaces.” These include categories such as “Work Mode,” “Sweat & Reset,” and “Evening Exhale.”

    While global beauty spending is on the rise, much of this growth can be attributed to pricing increases rather than an uptick in product volume. Countries like Brazil, India, and France reported impressive spending gains of 16.8%, 12.7%, and 8.9% respectively, yet actual product usage remains stagnant or is even declining. In China, for example, beauty spending fell by 4% year-over-year, with a corresponding 1% dip in volume.

    Traditional beauty routines, including the once-popular “Rise & Shine,” are seeing negligible growth rates between 0% and 2%. In contrast, newer categories such as “Brunch Beauty” are on a rapid upward trajectory, boasting over 5% year-over-year growth in markets like the U.S., U.K., and Germany. Consumers are increasingly gravitating towards versatile, quick-acting products, with micellar waters, mists, and gels gaining particular popularity in India, France, and Indonesia.

    As shoppers seek out efficiency and adaptability, hybrid products that mix elements of skincare, haircare, and makeup are gaining traction. For instance, post-workout scalp serums and overnight hair oils are becoming staples across multiple Beauty Spaces. Notably, younger consumers are at the forefront of this trend, particularly engaged in “Sweat & Reset” and “Night Out Glow” moments.

    The report highlights a significant shift in shopping behavior, where traditional category-based selections are yielding to experience-driven layouts both online and in physical stores. Social media platforms like TikTok and YouTube Shorts are revolutionizing the way consumers discover products, focusing on not just what to buy, but also when and how to use them. In Taiwan and China, digital sales of personal care products have surged to account for 59% and 56% of their respective beauty markets. The Philippines has also seen remarkable growth, jumping from 8% in 2022 to 18% in 2024.

    Retailers are responding creatively to these changes, introducing mood-based pop-ups and interactive experiences—think scratch-and-sniff billboards—to enhance customer engagement.

    Questions & Answers

    How are consumers redefining their beauty routines in 2024?
    Consumers are moving away from rigid, traditional beauty routines and opting for flexibility, choosing products that fit specific daily moments, or “Beauty Spaces,” such as work, exercise, or relaxation.

    What is driving growth in the beauty industry despite declining product usage?
    While overall spending on beauty products is rising, much of this growth is attributed to price increases rather than increases in product volume, highlighting a possible disconnect between spending and actual usage rates.

    Which regions are experiencing significant online sales growth in the beauty category?
    Taiwan and China are leading the charge, with digital sales of personal care products making up 59% and 56% of their markets, respectively. The Philippines has also seen a dramatic increase from 8% to 18% in just two years.

  • India Pursues Trump Tariff Agreement Following UK Trade Pact Breakthrough

    India Pursues Trump Tariff Agreement Following UK Trade Pact Breakthrough

    Starting July 9, U.S. President Donald Trump’s vast array of global trade tariffs is set to roll out, posing serious implications for economies and businesses worldwide.

    In a race against time, India is working diligently to forge an agreement that could shield its exports from a hefty 26% tariff imposed on goods shipped to its largest market. However, unlike many nations navigating these choppy waters, New Delhi has a fresh strategy in place: the recently announced free trade agreement (FTA) with the U.K. This deal not only highlights India’s proactive stance but also mandates some tough choices as it seeks to solidify its trading relationships.

    With the clock ticking down to the implementation of these tariffs, all eyes are on how India can maneuver its way through the evolving trade landscape. Meanwhile, business owners and consumers alike watch anxiously, wondering how these changes will ripple through their wallets and shopping carts.

    Questions & Answers

    Questions & Answers

    What are the main implications of the U.S. tariffs for India?
    The tariffs could impose a 26% levy on Indian goods, significantly increasing costs for exporters and potentially leading to a drop in trade volumes.

    How is India responding to the impending tariffs?
    India is actively seeking trade agreements and has recently announced a free trade agreement with the U.K. as part of its strategy to mitigate the impacts of U.S. tariffs.

    What does the future hold for India’s trade relationships?
    The path ahead is uncertain, but with proactive measures like the FTA with the U.K., India is positioning itself to adapt and thrive in the changing global trade landscape.

  • AirAsia’s Cebu-Kaohsiung service Started August 1st

    AirAsia’s Cebu-Kaohsiung service Started August 1st

    AirAsia is set to commence operation of its direct service to Kaohsiung International Airport in Taiwan from Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA) in Cebu beginning Thursday, August 1, 2019.

    AirAsia will service the Cebu-Kaohsiung route thrice weekly every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday using an Airbus A320 aircraft with 180 all-economy seats.

    GMR Megawide Cebu Airport Corporation (GMCAC), together with the Mactan-Cebu International Airport Authority (MCIAA), welcomed this development, with some officials saying they are excited, as it will help position Cebu as a hub not just in the country but in Southeast Asia.

    “We at the MCIA community are excited by the opening of AirAsia’s Cebu-Kaohsiung route. GMCAC is committed to positioning Cebu as a hub in Southeast Asia and in the Philippines. Our location makes MCIA the ideal jump-off point to other tourist destinations in the central and southern islands, and we are making this happen through strategic airline marketing efforts and partners such as AirAsia,” GMCAC President Louie Ferrer said.

    Ferrer also expressed his thanks to the carrier.

    “AirAsia has been one of our most dynamic partners in developing international connectivity and we thank them for their continued support of MCIA and Cebu,” he said.

    A water cannon salute will welcome the inaugural flight from Kaohsiung to Cebu and its passengers on Thursday, August 1, at 4:40 p.m.

    “The Philippines continues to be one of the top holiday destinations for Taiwanese. As the only Philippine airline to connect Cebu and Clark directly to Kaohsiung, we are pleased to be able to contribute to Philippine tourism and bring Cebuanos and Kapampangans closer to southern Taiwan as well,” said Philippines AirAsia President and CEO Dexter Comendador in a statement.

    AirAsia will also launch the Clark-Kaohsiung route on the same day marking Kaohsiung as the airline’s 10th international destination to be launched this year.

    “While Taipei has been one of the recently favored travel destinations of Filipinos, we urge the Cebuanos to explore the different sights and distinct flavors that can only be experienced in Kaohsiung,” said Aines Librodo, GMCAC Airline Marketing and Tourism Development head.

    From Mactan-Cebu International Airport, AirAsia flies to 13 destinations, namely, Manila, Clark, Davao, Cagayan De Oro, Puerto Princesa, Caticlan, Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, Seoul, Shenzhen, Macau, Taipei, and Kaohsiung.

    With the addition of this new route, Mactan-Cebu airport is now connected to 28 domestic destinations and 23 international destinations with nine Philippine-based and 17 foreign airline partners.

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  • DHL to build electric vans in Japan

    DHL to build electric vans in Japan

    Deutsche Post/ DHL’s EV building outlet StreetScooter is to sign a contract with Yamato, a major Japanese logistics company worth around 32 million euros. The two companies will develop a small electric van together and will bring the first 500 units into the greater Tokyo area by autumn.

    Progressed negotiations that have now been concluded. StreetScooter is responsible for the production of the electric van while Yamato will be responsible for the refrigerated transport box. However, the truck bed will be waist high so that workers can load and unload cargo without having to enter the refrigerator-freezer compartment. 100 charge points are planned as well, as is further expansion.

    So the 500 vehicles are by no means the end of the story. The cooperation could be further expanded in the future as Yamato plans to aggressively convert its fleet of around 40,000 vehicles to electric drives. According to the Japanese business paper, Yamato would be the first large logistics company in Japan to rely on electric drives on a large scale.

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  • Thai retail giant to invest $1.1 bln for expansion in Vietnam

    Thai retail giant to invest $1.1 bln for expansion in Vietnam

    Thailand’s Central Retail Corporation plans to invest $1.1 billion in Vietnam in the next five years to expand its stores network.

    It said Vietnam’s wholesale and retail sector grew 7 percent year-on-year in the last quarter of 2020, and growth is likely to be strong this year, making it one of the most attractive markets in the world.

    Philippe Broianigo, CEO of Central Retail Vietnam, said the five-year plan would focus on multi-sector and multi-platform development.

    The company opened four shopping centers last year in central and southern Vietnam, and renamed five Big C supermarkets as “GO!”.

    It plans to invest $211 million for expansion this year, opening stores in the northern provinces of Thai Nguyen, Thai Binh and Lao Cai and the southern provinces of Ba Ria-Vung Tau and Tay Ninh.

    Over nine years in Vietnam, foods have proven to be a key product for Central Retail, contributing 70 percent of its revenues.

    With 37 shopping centers and 230 stores in 37 cities and provinces, it serves an average of 175,000 customers a day.

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  • Huda Beauty Secures Independence, Parting Ways with TSG Partners for Future Growth

    Huda Beauty Secures Independence, Parting Ways with TSG Partners for Future Growth

    Huda Beauty Takes Back Control in a Bold Move

    In a significant development, Huda Kattan, the founder and Co-CEO of Huda Beauty, has bought back the equity held by TSG Consumer Partners. This strategic move marks the end of an eight-year partnership that commenced in 2017, when TSG acquired a minority stake in the beauty brand.

    With this buyback, Huda Beauty is now entirely founder-owned, making it a standout in the beauty industry where few major brands are wholly controlled by their creators. This independence signifies a exciting new chapter for Huda Beauty, emphasizing its commitment to product innovation, authenticity, and deeper engagement with a global audience.

    In line with its founding principle that “Beauty is Self-Made,” Huda Beauty is set to forge ahead, pushing the boundaries in the beauty landscape.

    Questions & Answers

    What prompted Huda Kattan to buy back the equity from TSG Consumers Partners?
    The desire for full control over Huda Beauty’s direction and operations was likely a key motivator for Kattan, allowing her to emphasize innovation and engagement directly.

    What does this buyback signify for Huda Beauty?
    This move signals a new era of independence, where Huda Beauty can fully embody its founding ethos and focus on deepening its global reach.

    How does Huda Beauty differentiate itself in the crowded beauty market?
    The brand’s commitment to being entirely founder-owned allows it to maintain authenticity and innovate in ways that truly reflect Huda’s vision and values. Talk about a glow-up!

  • Cadbury launches smartphone-size milk block range

    Cadbury launches smartphone-size milk block range

    Cadbury, a renowned chocolate brand, has introduced its 100g Dairy Milk chocolate blocks to supermarkets all over the country, in a strategic move to capitalize on the changing consumer preferences.

    New Convenient Size for the Modern Consumer

    The latest product is roughly the same size as a smartphone, deliberately designed for ease and convenience. It primarily targets smaller households and individuals who are on the lookout for indulgent treats that are also portion-friendly. The 100g blocks come in four enticing flavours, among them Cadbury Dairy Milk, Fruit & Nut, Black Forest, and a new exclusive variant, Honeycomb & Peanut.

    Australia enjoys the honour of being the first market outside the UK to introduce this new block size, as confirmed by Ben Wicks, VP of Marketing at Mondelez International Australia and New Zealand. Wicks further added that the new product line is proudly produced using Australian milk, sourced from their factory located in Tasmania.

    Commenting on the product, Wicks said, “Whether it’s about portion size, value, or simply indulging in a moment of joy, we’re meeting consumers where they are – without compromising on the chocolate they love.”

    Australian Chocolate Consumption Habits

    The launch of the new size is backed by recent consumer research, which involved nearly 2000 Australians. The results underscored the entrenched position of chocolate in Australian culture, with 59% of respondents revealing that they consume chocolate at least once a week.

    Expressing pride in this new offering, Wicks added, “We’re proud to offer even more choice with our new 100g Cadbury block, designed for today’s shoppers who want a convenient, quality treat that fits their lifestyle.”

    In March, Cadbury Australia also released its Easter range, showcasing new flavours in addition to some returning classics.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the new product that Cadbury has introduced?
    Cadbury has launched a new 100g Dairy Milk chocolate block that’s approximately the size of a smartphone.

    What are the available flavours of this new product?
    The new product is available in four flavours: Cadbury Dairy Milk, Fruit & Nut, Black Forest, and a new exclusive variant, Honeycomb & Peanut.

    Which country is the first to stock this new product outside the UK?
    Australia is the first country outside the UK to stock this new size of Cadbury chocolate blocks.

  • Alo Yoga Launches First Store in the Philippines, Expanding Its Global Reach

    Alo Yoga Launches First Store in the Philippines, Expanding Its Global Reach

    Alo Yoga’s Southeast Asian Adventure Begins

    Global wellness and lifestyle brand Alo Yoga has officially made its mark in the Philippines with the grand opening of its debut store at Greenbelt 5. Spanning an impressive 235.5 square meters, the flagship store showcases Alo Yoga’s extensive range of premium activewear and lifestyle apparel for women, men, and unisex enthusiasts alike.

    This milestone not only highlights Alo Yoga’s commitment to luxury activewear but also cements its status as a leader in holistic wellness across Southeast Asia.

    The opening event, hosted in collaboration with SSI Group, Inc., attracted Manila’s luminaries from the worlds of fashion, wellness, and vibrant content creation, making it a sparkling affair to remember. Best of all? The store is officially open for business!

    Questions & Answers

    What product range is available at the new Alo Yoga store?
    Alo Yoga’s new store features a comprehensive collection of premium activewear and lifestyle apparel suitable for women, men, and unisex.

    Who partnered with Alo Yoga for the store opening event?
    The opening event was organized in collaboration with SSI Group, Inc., bringing together Manila’s fashion, wellness, and content creation elite.

    When did the Alo Yoga store officially open its doors?
    The store is now officially open to the public, welcoming customers to explore its offerings and indulge in the brand’s luxurious lifestyle.

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  • Vietnam Weighs ‘Red Alert’ Label to Tackle Toxicity Risks in Durian Farming

    Vietnam Weighs ‘Red Alert’ Label to Tackle Toxicity Risks in Durian Farming

    A comprehensive examination of durian cultivation areas and packaging facilities is essential to pinpoint those using prohibited substances, asserted Vu Duc Con, chairman of the Dak Lak Durian Association, in a letter to the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment. He emphasized the necessity of assigning a “red alert” label to facilities found in violation, urging the government to establish a recovery plan that encourages the adoption of safe and sustainable farming practices.

    This proposal comes on the heels of multiple warnings from Chinese customs, which have heightened scrutiny since late 2024 regarding cadmium levels in Vietnamese durians—a toxic heavy metal. Moreover, some samples were reported to contain auramine O, a banned additive with potential cancer risks.

    The impact on Vietnam’s agricultural sector is stark, with durian exports to China plummeting by 74% year-on-year during the first four months of 2025, totaling just $130 million, according to the agriculture ministry. In response, China has begun testing all shipments for cadmium and auramine O, enforcing strict penalties such as the suspension of codes for related growing areas and packing facilities.

    To combat these challenges, the Dak Lak Durian Association is collaborating with official agencies to conduct extensive sampling to detect chemical residues and trace their origins. In a bid to secure its standing in the Chinese market, this prominent durian-growing region in the Central Highlands aims to establish its own quality control standards for the fruit.

    Furthermore, the association has called on the government to develop technical standards and adopt rapid on-site testing technologies to ensure food safety prior to exports. In cases of serious safety violations, they advocated for the destruction of contaminated shipments rather than rerouting them to domestic markets, protecting public health and the industry’s reputation in the process.

    Currently, Vietnam boasts over 150,000 hectares dedicated to durian cultivation; however, only 20% are certified for export. Many of these farms fall short of regulatory standards regarding pesticides and quality, which hampers their global competitiveness. With China being the largest market for Vietnamese durians—contributing to $3.2 billion in exports last year—maintaining high standards is crucial for the industry’s future success.

    As the saying goes, “If you can’t stand the heat, get out of the durian kitchen!”

    Questions & Answers

    **What prompted the review of durian farming practices in Vietnam?** The review was prompted by repeated warnings from Chinese customs regarding the presence of cadmium in Vietnamese durians and other unsafe additives.

    How much have Vietnamese durian exports to China decreased recently? Exports plunged by 74% year-on-year in the first four months of 2025, totaling just $130 million.

    What measures is the Dak Lak Durian Association advocating for? The association is urging for the establishment of technical standards, rapid testing technologies, and strict penalties for safety violations to enhance the safety and quality of durian exports.

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  • El Rustico launches premium potato chips at Woolworths

    El Rustico launches premium potato chips at Woolworths

    El Rustico, a renowned brand synonymous with premium snacks, has recently introduced artisanal potato chips to its product range. The deli-style snacks are available exclusively at Woolworths.

    The Spanish-based company is known for its commitment to delivering superior quality snacks at affordable prices. A packet of their newly launched product retails at $3.80.

    El Rustico’s potato chips come in a delectable variety of flavours. Consumers can choose from Original, Salt and Vinegar, and Chilli and Lime. Each flavour promises to offer a unique and delectable culinary experience.

    Richard Fowell, the Marketing Manager of El Rustico, spoke about the brand’s values. He stated, “El Rustico is a brand that prides itself on quality, heritage, and flavour. We aim to bring an exquisite snacking experience to our customers.”

    Fowell further added that the new product was designed to deliver a remarkable taste while still being affordable. “We have crafted a product that feels luxurious, tastes outstanding, and is still attainable for everyday Australians,” he said.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the price point of El Rustico’s new potato chips?
    El Rustico’s artisanal potato chips are priced at $3.80 per packet.

    Which flavours are available in El Rustico’s new range of potato chips?
    El Rustico has introduced three flavours in its new potato chip range: Original, Salt and Vinegar, and Chilli and Lime.

    Where can consumers purchase El Rustico’s new potato chips?
    The new range of potato chips by El Rustico is exclusively available at Woolworths.

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  • WhatsApp is working on multi-account support for iOS

    WhatsApp is working on multi-account support for iOS

    WhatsApp recently added new camera effects, self stickers, and quick reactions to its app, but there are a lot more improvements its engineers plan to introduce in the coming months.

    One of the improvements involves the ability to switch WhatsApp accounts on the same device. The folks over at WaBetaInfo have just learned that a new iOS update that brings WhatsApp to version 25.2.10.70 includes the ability to add and manage multiple accounts within the app.

    The same feature was spotted for the first time back in August 2023, but WhatsApp was only testing multi-account support on Android at that time. Now it looks like WhatsApp plans to bring this feature to iOS users too at some point in the future.

    It remains to be seen how multi-account support will be implemented on iOS, but currently users can choose between setting up the device as a primary account or scanning a QR code to link a new account as secondary. This will allow iOS users to switch between WhatsApp accounts on the fly without having to use multiple devices.

    Adding multi-account support isn’t as easy as it may sound, as the app will have to keep all conversations organized on a single device while keeping the accounts separated. Notifications, chats, backups, and settings will remain unique for each account, unless the user wants them to operate similarly.

    Unfortunately, it’s hard to tell when exactly WhatsApp plans to roll out multi-account support on iOS but seeing that the company is already working on this feature means that we won’t have to wait too long.

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  • Globe Expands Network with New Cell Sites in Central Luzon

    Globe Expands Network with New Cell Sites in Central Luzon

    Globe Telecom has constructed six new towers in Bulacan, including two in Marilao and one each in Angat, Doña Remedios Trinidad, Hagonoy, and San Jose Del Monte, while expanding a total of 22 additional sites across the province.

    In Nueva Ecija, the company has built six new towers, located in Aliaga, Gapan City, General Tinio, San Isidro, Santa Rosa, and Talavera, and expanded 11 existing sites to provide enhanced digital services to both urban and rural areas.

    Globe Telecom has added five new cell towers in Apalit, Floridablanca, Mexico, San Luis, and Sasmuan in Pampanga to improve network coverage.

    In Tarlac, three new sites were added in Bamban, Concepcion, and Tarlac City, with additional site upgrades further improving the province’s overall network coverage. Approximately 15 existing sites were upgraded to boost network capacity and coverage.

    Joel Agustin, Globe’s SVP of Service Planning and Engineering, emphasized that the company’s network expansion across Central Luzon highlights its dedication to delivering world-class connectivity to all Filipinos.

    Agustin noted that the addition of the new towers and expansion sites aims to improve connectivity and empower communities to prosper in the digital age.

    Globe’s ongoing network expansion aligns with its mission to close the digital divide in the Philippines. The company aims to offer all Filipinos access to digital benefits, promoting inclusive growth nationwide through continuous infrastructure upgrades and network expansion.

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  • Google Fi Wireless increases pricing for those with more than three lines on “Simply Unlimited” plan

    Google Fi Wireless increases pricing for those with more than three lines on “Simply Unlimited” plan

    Google Fi Wireless, the MVNO wireless phone plan brought to you by Google, has announced changes to the pricing of its “Simply Unlimited” plan. Starting today for new customers, and rolling out to existing customers after April 4th, 2024, the prices for plans with three or more lines will be increasing as follows:

    • Three lines: The cost for three lines on the Simply Unlimited plan will increase from $80 to $90 per month.
    • Four lines: Accounts with four lines will go up from $80 to $100 per month.
    • Five and six lines: There are also increases for five-line accounts (going up to $125/month) and six-line accounts (going up to $150/month)

    If you have one or two lines active on the Simply Unlimited plan, not to worry, your pricing will remain unchanged. Additionally, Google Fi Wireless is not changing the core features of the Simply Unlimited plan, which still include unlimited high-speed data (which slows down after 35GB), unlimited calls and texts in the US, Canada, and Mexico, 5GB of hotspot tethering, connectivity for select smartwatches, automatic encryption of your data using a virtual private network (VPN), as well as some family safety features such as spam blocking, location sharing, and contact controls.

    These pricing adjustments begin for new customers starting today, March 5th, 2024. Existing customers will see the change reflected on their first bill after April 4th, 2024. Google Fi Wireless also clarifies that existing accounts with long-term promotions or device financing agreements activated before March 5th, 2024, will maintain their original pricing until those commitments end. Pricing will also not change on the Flexible or Unlimited Plus plans.

    Google Fi Wireless states this change in pricing is necessary “to continue delivering high-quality product offerings and features.” This marks the first price increase for the almost three year old “Simply Unlimited” plan since the service was rebranded from “Google Fi” to “Google Fi Wireless” last year.