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  • Globe, GoTyme Bank Partner to Strengthen Anti-Scam Measures

    Globe, GoTyme Bank Partner to Strengthen Anti-Scam Measures

    This collaboration will comply with the Data Privacy Act and streamline the process of investigating suspected scammers by eliminating the need for warrants or subpoenas to access their information.

    Globe’s Chief Privacy Officer, Irish Salandanan-Almeida, emphasized, “This partnership reflects our ongoing commitment to championing cybersecurity and protecting our customers from the growing threats in the digital world. Through collaborations, we can combine our expertise and resources to better safeguard the financial sector and our customers from cybercrime.”

    In the first half of last year, Globe blocked 2.7 million bank-related spam and scam messages, investing around USD 20 million in scam detection and prevention systems to protect consumers from deceptive messages. A study by Kaspersky revealed that Filipinos encountered 14.1 million web threats last year, a decrease from 26.6 million in 2023.

    Yeo Siang Tiong, Kaspersky’s General Manager for Southeast Asia, suggested that this decline in cyber threats could be due to improved detection and prevention methods. However, Tiong cautioned that hackers might be targeting specific high-value individuals rather than launching widespread cyberattacks.

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  • Nespresso introduces Oatly Barista Edition Coffee capsules

    Nespresso introduces Oatly Barista Edition Coffee capsules

    Nespresso has partnered with Oatly to launch a limited-edition coffee capsule designed to “perfectly pair” with oat milk.

    The new product, called Oatly Barista Edition Coffee, is made exclusively for Nespresso Vertuo coffee machines. It features rich, biscuity notes that complement the creamy, cereal flavor of Oatly.

    Toby Weedon, barista development director at Oatly, said the neutral taste of Oatly brings out the best flavour in coffee.

    “It’s why it is used by professional baristas and embraced by coffee enthusiasts worldwide,” said Weedon.

    Karsten Ranitzch, global head of coffee for Nespresso, added that the company is on a mission to make sure every coffee lover can create their perfect cup.

    “We know more and more people are reaching for plant-based drinks when preparing their favourite coffee recipe, which is why we are thrilled about our partnership with Oatly,” said Ranitzch.

    “Bringing our two like-minded brands and expertise together has allowed us to craft an unforgettable new coffee blend.”

    Nespresso’s Oatly Barista Edition coffee is available worldwide.

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  • Aldi US plans to open 225 more stores nationwide this year

    Aldi US plans to open 225 more stores nationwide this year

    Aldi US plans to open more than 225 stores across the country this year as part of the next phase of its five-year growth strategy.

    The openings will include organic growth and conversion of select Winn-Dixie and Harveys Supermarket stores to the Aldi format.

    The company plans to convert approximately 220 Southeastern Grocers locations to Aldi through 2027. About 100 converted locations will re-open by the end of this year.

    About 170 Winn-Dixie and Harveys Supermarket stores not affected by the conversion will be sold to a consortium including C&S Wholesale Grocers, Southeastern Grocers senior leadership and private investors.

    Aldi said this divestment allows it to create a focused portfolio in the Southeast as it progresses its expansion plans across the country. The company plans to expand its footprint in the Northeast and Midwest regions, grow presence in the West with more stores in Southern California and Arizona, and enter new communities like Las Vegas.

    “When we announced our acquisition of Southeastern Grocers, we shared that we intended for a meaningful number of Winn-Dixie and Harveys Supermarkets to continue to operate, and we’re delivering on that promise while also supporting Aldi growth,” said Jason Hart, CEO of Aldi.

    “Over the last year, we’ve seen firsthand how C&S Wholesale Grocers, Southeastern Grocers and their teams have continued to deliver great quality, service and value to their customers, and we are confident they will lead the company successfully into its next chapter,” he added.

    Last year, the chain opened nearly 120 stores, bringing its total store count to more than 2400.

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  • Oatly Barista Edition rolls out in Circle K stores in Northern Europe

    Oatly Barista Edition rolls out in Circle K stores in Northern Europe

    Swedish plant-based alt-milk producer Oatly has partnered with the convenience store chain Circle K to introduce its Barista Edition beverage across stores in Estonia, Lithuania, and Latvia.

    The Oatly Barista Edition is a plant-based, dairy-free alternative that the company claims provides the same creamy taste, frothy texture, and functionality as traditional coffee creamers.

    Skirmantas Maciukas, VP of Circle K Baltics, stated that the collaboration with Oatly is part of its mission to provide plant-based options for customers throughout the Baltics.

    “Our mission is to make our customers’ lives a little easier every day,” he added.

    Circle K is owned by Canadian convenience store giant Alimentation Couche-Tard, which operates the brand in more than 20 markets worldwide.

    Recently, Oatly also partnered with Nespresso for a limited-release Barista Edition coffee capsules.

  • Google plans to make it harder for teens to lie about their age

    Google plans to make it harder for teens to lie about their age

    Google recently announced new digital products that target kids, teens and parents. From additional family-focused controls to helpful experiences for kids and teens, Google is trying to protect youngsters and give parents control over the content they consume on a regular basis.

    The list of improvements to existing safeguards Google has in place for under-18 users also includes a new machine learning model that will make it harder for teens to lie about their age.

    The Mountain View company has taken some steps toward providing age-appropriate experiences to teens when they use its products, including a number of changes for all users under 18. For example, Google recently introduced a SafeSearch Filter, restricting sensitive ad content, gating age-restricted content on YouTube & Play, and implemented teen wellbeing protections on YouTube.

    But that’s not enough since Google has decided to use machine learning to determine the age of a user. The search giant announced this week that it plans to start testing a machine learning-based estimation model. The test will be limited to the United States at launch, but Google plans to bring the technology to more countries over time.The machine learning model Google is going to test this year is meant to help the company estimate whether a user is over or under 18 so that it can provide a more age-appropriate experience.

    Google hasn’t yet explained how this machine learning model will work, so it remains to be seen whether or not it will be more effective than the safeguards it has implemented right now.

    In related news, Google announced it’s rolling out a new sensitive content warning feature in Google Messages. This feature is opt-in for adults, but mandatory for kids and teens. It can be managed via Android Settings and features parental controls for supervised accounts.

    For those interested in learning more about Google’s teens experiences, we have an extensive article that explains how the company plans to empower parents to manage their kids’ devices.

  • 5 Ways to Practice Underarm Care This Spring

    5 Ways to Practice Underarm Care This Spring

    Spring is here, and that means lighter fabrics, warmer days, and, of course, more time outdoors. But with the change in seasons, your underarms can start feeling the effects—dryness, irritation, and even unwanted discoloration. If you’ve ever considered visiting a medical aesthetic clinic for treatments like armpit whitening, you’re not alone. Many people struggle with underarm concerns, especially during seasonal transitions.

    The good news? A few simple tweaks to your routine can make a big difference. Here’s how to care for your underarms this spring so you can stay fresh, smooth, and confident all season long.

    Common Underarm Concerns as the Seasons Change

    Spring brings warmer temperatures and higher humidity. That means your body naturally sweats more, leading to potential odor, irritation, and clogged pores. If you’re wearing sleeveless tops, you might also notice rough or darkened skin under your arms—a sign that dead skin cells are building up.

    Another issue? Hair removal irritation. Whether you shave, wax, or use other methods, your skin is extra sensitive in this area. Without proper care, you can end up with razor bumps, redness, and ingrown hairs.

    But don’t worry. A little extra attention will help you keep your underarms smooth, healthy, and irritation-free. Let’s get into it.

    How to Look After Your Underarms This Spring

    Exfoliate Regularly for Smooth Skin

    Think about it—your face and body get regular exfoliation, so why not your underarms? Dead skin cells, deodorant residue, and bacteria can build up over time, leading to rough texture and dark spots.

    Use a gentle exfoliant, like a mild scrub or a chemical exfoliant with lactic or glycolic acid, once or twice a week. This helps slough off dead skin, brighten the area, and even prevent ingrown hairs. But remember—gentleness is key. The underarm skin is delicate, so don’t overdo it with harsh scrubs.

    One quick tip? Try exfoliating in the evening, so your skin has time to recover overnight before applying deodorant in the morning.

    Switch to a Skin-Friendly Deodorant

    Deodorant is a daily essential, but not all formulas are created equal. Some contain harsh ingredients like alcohol or aluminum, which can clog pores, irritate sensitive skin, and contribute to underarm discoloration.

    If you often deal with irritation or itching, consider switching to a natural or hypoallergenic deodorant. Look for ingredients like coconut oil, shea butter, and arrowroot powder—these help keep your skin calm and dry without harsh chemicals.

    Not ready to ditch your antiperspirant completely? Try a hybrid approach. Use a natural deodorant on days when you don’t need heavy-duty sweat protection, and reserve antiperspirant for long days or workouts.

    Keep Your Underarms Hydrated

    Moisturizing your underarms might sound odd, but it’s just as important as keeping the rest of your body hydrated. Dry, flaky skin can lead to irritation and discomfort—especially if you shave regularly.

    Use a lightweight, fragrance-free moisturizer or an aloe-based gel to keep the skin soft and smooth. Some people even swear by using a little bit of their facial serum (like hyaluronic acid) under their arms to lock in moisture without clogging pores.

    Another hack? Apply moisturizer at night, so your skin has time to absorb it without being disturbed by deodorant or sweat during the day.

    Choose Hair Removal Methods Wisely

    Shaving is quick and convenient, but it can also cause razor burns, ingrown hairs, and dark spots. If you shave frequently, use a sharp razor and a moisturizing shaving gel to reduce irritation. And never shave dry—this is a fast track to redness and discomfort.

    Waxing is another option, but it can be harsh on sensitive skin. If you go this route, exfoliate beforehand to prevent ingrown hairs and soothe the area afterward with a calming lotion.

    For those looking for a longer-term solution, laser hair removal is a great choice. It reduces hair growth over time and can even help lighten dark patches caused by constant shaving. If you’re considering this, spring is a great time to start since you’ll need to avoid direct sun exposure during treatments.

    Prioritize Breathability & Hygiene

    What you wear matters more than you think. Tight, synthetic fabrics trap moisture, creating the perfect environment for bacteria to thrive. If you want to keep your underarms fresh, stick to breathable fabrics like cotton or linen—especially when temperatures start rising.

    Daily hygiene is also key. Wash your underarms thoroughly with a mild, pH-balanced cleanser to remove sweat and bacteria. If you’re prone to odor, a gentle antibacterial soap can help.

    And a final tip? Give your underarms a break from deodorant once in a while. Going “bare” for a day or two lets your skin breathe and prevents product buildup.

    Build a Simple Routine for Healthy Underarms

    Underarm care doesn’t have to be complicated. With just a few small changes—exfoliating, moisturizing, choosing gentle products, and prioritizing hygiene—you can keep your underarms looking and feeling their best this spring.

    Whether you’re prepping for a sleeveless season or just want to feel more comfortable in your skin, these tips will help. And if you’re dealing with persistent concerns like dark spots or irritation, a good dermatologist can offer professional solutions tailored to your needs.

    So go ahead—refresh your routine, embrace the warmer weather, and enjoy feeling confident all season long.

     

  • Singtel Launches 5G+ Using 700 MHz for Wider Coverage

    Singtel Launches 5G+ Using 700 MHz for Wider Coverage

    This upgraded 5G service, now called Singtel 5G+, will provide stronger signals (up to 40%) in indoor high-rise buildings, underground spaces, and remote areas in Singapore.

    The use of this low-frequency spectrum allows for wider coverage with fewer towers, ensuring a more reliable network for businesses needing constant connectivity and consumers wanting to make video calls or stream content in these locations. This development comes after the Info-communications Media Development Authority (IMDA) granted Singtel the rights to use the 700 MHz spectrum. Approximately 1.5 million subscribers, including Singtel’s mobile enterprise, postpaid, prepaid, and GOMO 5G customers, are expected to benefit from this expanded coverage at no extra cost.

    Mr. Ng Tian Chong, Chief Executive Officer of Singtel Singapore, stated that with the increasing digital lifestyles of consumers and the demand for innovative solutions by businesses, Singtel invested early in achieving 5G coverage to support Singapore’s Smart Nation goals. Singtel aims to set a new standard in 5G connectivity with 5G+, providing enhanced digital experiences for customers and enabling more opportunities for advancement.

    The use of the 700 MHz band allows signals to travel longer distances, extending coverage to areas like Tuas, Kranji, Sungei Kadut, Changi East, and Jurong Island, including locations with spatial constraints like military camps, factories, and warehouses. This wider coverage will provide consumers in these areas with seamless mobile experiences, while also boosting enterprise productivity in sectors like healthcare, public safety, and port operations. The 700 MHz band also improves signal transfer in dense urban environments like Singapore, ensuring uninterrupted calls and data services in places like basement carparks, HDB estates, and high-rise commercial developments.

    This enhancement will benefit sectors like security and manufacturing, which rely on smooth transmission of high-definition (HD) video footage for real-time threat detection and operational efficiency. Singtel’s early investments in 5G technology have allowed them to unlock new features and capabilities, positioning Singapore as a global testbed for innovation.

    Since achieving nationwide 5G coverage in 2022, Singtel has deployed 5G capabilities like network slicing for enterprise applications and at high-traffic events such as concerts and parades. The deployment of the 700 MHz spectrum is part of Singtel’s ongoing efforts to support individuals and future-proof businesses.

  • China’s AI Surge Drives Digital Health Market Growth

    China’s AI Surge Drives Digital Health Market Growth

    GlobalData’s research indicated that, in 2024, China accounted for approximately 20% of the digital health market in the Asia Pacific (APAC), reflecting the rising demand for innovations like DeepSeek in the healthcare field.

    Pratibha Thammanabhatla, a Medical Devices Analyst at GlobalData, noted, “The recent introduction of Qwen2.5-Max, Kimi k1.5, and DeepSeek demonstrates China’s expanding presence in the AI industry and its commitment to achieving technological independence. The advanced AI capabilities they offer, such as significant efficiency improvements, enhanced reasoning, and accessibility, have the potential to enhance diagnostic capabilities, provide personalized recommendations, and improve communication between patients and healthcare providers.”

    Alibaba Cloud claimed that its latest Qwen2.5-Max has shown significant advantages over other AI models like Llama 3.1 405B, DeepSeek-V3, and Qwen2.5 72B when assessed using benchmark tools such as Arena-Hard, LiveBench, LiveCodeBench, and GPQA Diamond. They anticipate that advancements in post-training techniques will take the next version of Qwen2.5-Max to new heights.

    Thammanabhatla concluded, “While AI has the potential to transform healthcare by enhancing efficiency and patient outcomes, challenges such as data privacy, doctor-patient relationships, and a shortage of adequately trained personnel need to be addressed for successful implementation. A collaborative approach involving stakeholders from different countries and sectors, including healthcare professionals, regulators, and data privacy experts, is crucial to overcoming these challenges and promoting wider adoption.”

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  • Vietnam Airlines among world’s top 20 carriers

    Vietnam Airlines among world’s top 20 carriers

    National flag carrier Vietnam Airlines has been honored in the Top 20 World’s Best Airlines for 2025 by AirlineRatings and won the “World’s Best Value Premium Economy” award for the second consecutive year.

    These accolades highlight the airline’s consistent quality and service across its entire network, regardless of flight distance or class. The retention of the “World’s Best Value Premium Economy” title underscores its excellence in this segment.

    Sharon Petersen, CEO of AirlineRatings, praised Vietnam Airlines for its balance of quality and value, stating that since Jan. 14, 2025, it has expanded its premium economy class to domestic routes, offering passengers enhanced privileges.

    Dang Anh Tuan, Deputy General Director of Vietnam Airlines, said: “The awards reflect our relentless efforts to improve service quality and motivates us to continue innovating and delivering world-class experiences. We remain committed to meeting and exceeding the ever-growing expectations of customers.”

    AirlineRatings.com, a global aviation safety and product rating agency, evaluates over 435 airlines based on service, seating, meals, comfort, and passenger feedback.

    Vietnam Airlines joins other top carriers like Korean Air, Qatar Airways, and Singapore Airlines in the prestigious Top 20 list.

  • Google Maps and Apple Maps have different names for the same body of water

    Google Maps and Apple Maps have different names for the same body of water

    In case you haven’t noticed it yet, the Gulf of Mexico today has been officially renamed the Gulf of America in the U.S. on Google Maps. We first told you about the change at the end of last month, and now that the Geographic Names Information System (GNIS) has made the revision, it was time for Google to do likewise. In some countries, Google Maps will show two names, with the Gulf of Mexico as the primary name and the Gulf of America in parenthesis.

    Apple, on the other hand, continues to refer to the body of water as the Gulf of Mexico. We haven’t seen Google Maps and Apple Maps call the same geographic area by different names since Apple Maps was released in September 2012 alongside the launch of iOS 6. Apple Maps had so many problems with some countries and streets mislabeled or missing. In Australia, Apple Maps was considered dangerous after it led some drivers to the Outback teeming with poisonous snakes, a temperature of 115 degree, and a lack of cell service.

    We don’t consider Apple’s decision not to follow Google Maps to be a conscious effort to ignore President Trump’s executive order. After all, tech firms seem more willing to get behind the president during this term. For some, like Google, it’s a matter of self-preservation. As recently as last September, then-candidate Trump threatened to prosecute Google for Election Interference if returned to the White House.

    Trump complained that Google Search was showing only negative stories about him while listing only positive stories about his opponent, then-Vice President Kamala Harris. You might recall that in 2018, during his first term, Google was accused by the president of “rigging” search results, so when users searched for “Trump news,” 96% of the results came from the “National Left-Wing Media” according to Trump.

    Besides Google, other tech companies that have shown support for President Trump in some manner include Amazon, Meta, and Apple. All three of these firms or their CEOs donated $1 million toward the president’s inauguration. Most tech companies learned during Trump’s first term that you kill more flies with honey. All four tech companies, Apple and Google particularly, might need help from Trump to avoid being prosecuted by the Justice Department for anti-trust violations.

    So, if all it takes for Google to get on the president’s good side is to change the name of the Gulf of Mexico to Gulf of America on the U.S. version of Google Maps, that’s a small price for the company to pay. Also expected to get a name refresh soon is the Denali mountain in Alaska; the president has ordered that the mountain be called by its original name, “Mount McKinley.”

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  • Let Tinder’s AI propose the best match for you

    Let Tinder’s AI propose the best match for you

    Tinder, probably the most popular dating app out there, is not getting the love lately: it’s steadily losing users month after month now. So, changes have to be made: upgrades are to be introduced soon. It’s 2025, so you know what that means, right? Correct, it means more AI.

    In the coming months, the app will introduce AI-centric features for discovery and matching, aiming to offer an alternative to the swipe-based system that once defined the platform.

    The company says these AI-curated recommendations will provide more personalized and engaging matches. But don’t you worry! If you’re accustomed to the trademark swipe, you’re safe.

    High-ranking executives emphasize that AI matching will complement swiping rather than replace it, with the goal of improving match quality and user perception.

    This isn’t the first time Tinder is meddling with AI. Another AI-powered addition, the AI Photo Finder, launched last year to help users choose the best profile photos.

    These features arrive at a time when Tinder, along with the broader dating app industry, is struggling.

    Tinder’s global user base continues to shrink. In October 2024, its monthly active users (MAUs) were down 10% year over year, improving only slightly to a 9% decline over the following months. By January 2025, MAUs had fallen around 8%.

    The company’s direct revenue also missed internal projections, coming in at $476 million, below the expected $480-$485 million range. Oops.

    In response, Match Group (the Tinder owner) has appointed Zillow co-founder Spencer Rascoff as its new CEO. Rascoff believes AI could drive a major shift for online dating, comparing its potential impact to the transition from desktop to mobile a decade ago. He pointed to apps like TikTok and Instagram that have leveraged AI to boost engagement and retention, suggesting that Match Group could see similar benefits.

    Despite this optimism, Tinder’s struggles have weighed on Match Group’s overall performance. The company reported Q4 earnings of 82 cents per share, missing analyst expectations of 84 cents. While it generated $860 million in revenue, exceeding estimates, this still marked a 0.7% decline year over year.

    For Q1 2025, Match expects revenues between $820 million and $830 million, reflecting a projected 3-5% decline due to Tinder’s ongoing user losses.

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  • Vietjet announces partnership with OpenAirlines to enhance fuel efficiency with AI-driven optimisation

    Vietjet announces partnership with OpenAirlines to enhance fuel efficiency with AI-driven optimisation

    Vietjet has signed a strategic partnership with OpenAirlines, a global leader in AI-driven airline fuel efficiency solutions. With this collaboration, Vietjet becomes the first airline in Vietnam to adopt SkyBreathe, an advanced AI-powered platform that analyses flight data to optimise fuel consumption and reduce carbon emissions.

    With SkyBreathe, Vietjet will harness AI, big data algorithms, and machine learning to analyse extensive flight data and enhance fuel efficiency. The platform consolidates information from multiple sources, including aircraft sensors and fuel reports, into a unified platform. Having processed data from over 21 million flights, SkyBreathe leverages the world’s largest fuel efficiency database for airlines.

    The SkyBreathe 360° eco-flying platform pinpoints key fuel-saving opportunities and provides tailored recommendations for pilots and flight operations managers. By tapping on SkyBreathe’s intuitive interface and detailed analytics, Vietjet is projected to reduce fuel consumption by 2% and cut CO2 emissions by over 96,000 tons annually.

    Vietjet will also introduce the SkyBreathe MyFuelCoach application to all its pilots, providing personalised eco-briefings and debriefings. This application helps pilots track performance, identify improvement areas, and implement best practices to optimise fuel efficiency, ultimately lowering fuel consumption and minimising environmental impact.

    “This partnership underscores Vietjet’s unwavering commitment to more sustainable flight operations. By harnessing the power of innovation and digitalisation, the airline is transforming its ambitious goal of net-zero emissions by 2050 into concrete actions that benefit not only itself but the entire aviation ecosystem, travelers, and the planet. The implementation of SkyBreathe is already underway, ensuring Vietjet can quickly unlock its full potential and start seeing measurable results,” said Alexandre Feray, CEO of OpenAirlines.

    Vietjet Vice President Nguyen Duc Thinh also shared: “Today’s agreement with OpenAirlines represents a significant milestone in Vietjet’s sustainable development strategy. By leveraging advanced technologies, we can continuously innovate, optimise operations, reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions, and enhance passengers’ flight experiences at reasonable costs. This collaboration also highlights Vietjet’s relentless efforts towards sustainability while delivering long-term benefits to the global aviation industry.”

    As the newest member of the SkyBreathe Community, Vietjet joins 73 airlines worldwide committed to advancing sustainable aviation. Through this dynamic network, Vietjet will receive ongoing support from OpenAirlines’ fuel experts to optimise performance and fully leverage the benefits of SkyBreathe.

    This partnership reflects Vietjet’s commitment to sustainable development, supported by strategic collaborations with international aviation and technology leaders.

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  • Apple makes a power play for your subscription dollars

    Apple makes a power play for your subscription dollars

    As previously reported by Mark Gurman, Apple Insider at Bloomberg News, Apple is showing clear signs that it intends to double down on its subscription strategy. From making significant changes to AppleCare and introducing the Apple Invites app for iCloud+ subscribers, these moves signal a clear push towards recurring revenue and a desire to integrate more services into its subscription ecosystem.

    Starting with AppleCare, the company is reportedly streamlining its device protection offerings, but this simplification comes at a cost. Previously, customers could choose between two AppleCare tiers: a standard plan covering typical hardware issues like cracked screens and battery problems, and a more comprehensive plan that also included coverage for theft and loss. If your phone went missing or was stolen, the premium plan would get you a replacement device, albeit with a deductible. Now, Apple is eliminating the basic plan altogether. This means the only option available is the more expensive theft and loss coverage, and that price is going up by 50 cents a month.

    Beyond the price hike, it’s also been reported that Apple will also be changing how you pay for AppleCare. Instead of the option to pay upfront for two years of coverage, customers will now be required to subscribe either monthly or annually. This shift to a subscription model locks users into recurring payments, further emphasizing Apple’s focus on predictable revenue streams. While some may appreciate the flexibility of monthly payments, others may miss the option for a one-time, longer-term payment.

    As you may have seen last week, Apple is also sweetening the deal for its iCloud+ subscribers with a new perk: the app and web service called “Invites.” This new app is Apple’s take on event planning apps like Partiful, aiming to simplify the process of organizing gatherings, from birthday parties to other special occasions. The app integrates with your photo library and music collection, allowing you to easily share memories and create a personalized experience for your guests.

    The iCloud+ tie in lies in that while users without a subscription can still download the Invites app to RSVP to events, the clear intention is to incentivize more people to sign up for a paid iCloud+ plan. By bundling this new app with iCloud+, Apple is hoping to demonstrate the added value of its subscription services and entice users to join the ecosystem. It’s a clever strategy: offer a unique and useful feature exclusively to subscribers, thereby making the subscription more attractive.

    According to Gurman, these latest changes reinforce the company’s commitment to subscriptions and its strategy of offering a range of interconnected services. As a consumer, I am wondering if further changes like these will be coming down the line as well from Apple, as the company looks for more opportunities to strengthen its bottom line.

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  • NEC Reveals Solution to Modernize Telco Infrastructure

    NEC Reveals Solution to Modernize Telco Infrastructure

    By leveraging cloud-native technology and virtualization, the new solution promises to reduce the time required to build mobile infrastructure—from Radio Access Network (RAN) to core—by approximately 60%, compared to traditional methods.

    As the need for faster, more reliable networks grows, telecom companies are adopting 5G virtualization technologies like v-RAN, O-RAN, and NFV. To keep up, network infrastructure construction must be modernized to improve efficiency and productivity.

    NEC’s new solution is designed to address these challenges, driving greater automation, efficiency, and quality in the construction of virtualized mobile infrastructures.

    Service News: NEC Thailand Partners with Umong to Improve Elderly Care

    Key Features

    • Network Infrastructure Modernization: NEC’s solution provides expert services to help telecom companies analyze their network building processes, from design to operation. NEC’s experience with virtualization platforms helps identify issues, create modernization strategies, and develop implementation plans. The service also offers guidance on improving processes, measuring performance, and boosting efficiency and quality.
    • Automation Technologies: The solution includes a suite of technologies designed to automate each stage of network construction. Fully compatible with cloud-native technologies, it is built on a microservice architecture that enables the integration of applications as small, independent services. This architecture supports open, multi-vendor environments, allowing telecom operators to modernize their networks while ensuring compatibility with a wide range of equipment.
    • Real-Time Data and Feedback Cycles: One of the standout features of NEC’s solution is the ability for network operations staff to access real-time data from all base stations. This feature accelerates feedback loops, improving base station performance and ensuring superior communication quality. The result is increased operational efficiency and a faster response to infrastructure needs.

    Exclusive: Kenji Takemura Discusses NEC’s Role in Enabling Future-Ready Connectivity

    NEC’s solution forms part of its goal to drive digital transformation in network operations. The ‘Network and Cloud-Native Orchestrator’ helps telecom companies modernize and automate their networks, improving the entire lifecycle from construction to operation. It supports virtualization, containerization, and cloud design, enabling carriers to expand quickly and cost-effectively.

    The solution also supports NEC’s new approach, NEC BluStellar, which focuses on being a “value driver” rather than just a systems integrator. NEC aims to transform business models, address social issues, and solve management challenges using advanced technologies and industry expertise.

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  • Nokia to Upgrade Vietnam’s Air Traffic Network

    Nokia to Upgrade Vietnam’s Air Traffic Network

    The project will replace the existing Synchronous Digital Hierarchy (SDH) transport system with Internet Protocol/Multi-Protocol Label Switching (IP/MPLS) technology, enhancing security and reliability in southern Vietnam.

    The initiative will provide Ho Chi Minh City’s Air Traffic Control Center (ATCC) with an upgraded transmission network designed to support mission-critical applications, ensuring efficient air traffic control (ATC) operations. The new system, compliant with the International Civil Aviation Organization’s (ICAO) standards, is scheduled to go live in the second quarter of 2025.

    “Air traffic networks need to be exceptionally secure and reliable at all times to ensure the highest standards of safety are met. Nokia comes with extensive experience in air navigation with 20 air traffic control networks deployed worldwide. We are impressed by the quality and performance of Nokia’s IP/MPLS networking solution and are looking forward to the successful completion of this crucial initiative in the coming year,” Ho Sy Tung, Deputy General Director at VATM, stated.

    Nokia’s IP/MPLS solution will equip VATM with advanced network analytics, simplifying operations and optimizing performance. The upgrade will offer enhanced flexibility and programmability to support essential air traffic management applications, improving safety and efficiency.

    Additionally, the system will feature robust security measures and future-proof capabilities to counter emerging threats, including those posed by quantum computing.

    Jonathan Goh, Head of Enterprise Business, Network Infrastructure, Southeast Asia North at Nokia, said, “Our mission-critical network solutions are trusted worldwide, delivering exceptional performance and reliability. With embedded QSN capabilities, Nokia’s IP/MPLS technology will enhance the safety and operational efficiency of Vietnam’s air traffic network. We are honored that VATM has chosen Nokia for this pivotal network transformation, paving the way for safer, more advanced and reliable air traffic management across Vietnam.”