Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. today introduced Auto Blocker, a new security tool for Samsung Galaxy users designed to keep their devices protected in the way that best fits their lifestyle. 

Recently released on One UI 6 as part of Samsung Galaxy’s expanded arsenal of security and privacy innovations, Auto Blocker is an opt-in package of additional security measures that gives users more choice as they explore the customizations enabled by Samsung Galaxy’s open ecosystem. 

Putting the Choice in Users’ Hands

“At Samsung we constantly strive to keep our users safe from security attacks, and with the introduction of Auto Blocker users can continue to enjoy the benefits of our open ecosystem, knowing that their mobile experience is secured,” said Dr. Seungwon Shin, EVP & Head of Security Team, Mobile eXperience Business at Samsung Electronics. “We always seek to empower our users to choose for themselves what best suits their needs – rather than us deciding on their behalf, and Auto Blocker is no exception to that.”

One of Auto Blocker’s features is the prevention of app installations from unauthorized sources, known as sideloading. There are many benefits to intentional sideloading, such as enhanced customization and control over a device’s functionality. Those who love to safely sideload will experience no change as the feature is off by default. For those not in the habit of sideloading or extensive customization, activating Auto Blocker can provide additional peace of mind by stalling the rise of social engineering attacks like voice phishing, where attackers could talk users into installing malicious software. 

Auto Blocker has a range of additional controls, including turning on app security checks to help detect potential malware and prevent harmful commands and software installations by USB cable. This can help protect users in a situation where someone has physical access to their device, like when charging a phone at an airport.

With this feature also comes an update to Message Guard, which mitigates Zero Click attacks, or direct image messages hiding malicious code. Initially launched for messaging apps from Google and Samsung, it now can help protect users using popular third party apps. This way, users have greater choice over the apps they can safely use.

Pushing the Industry Forward with New Security Standards

Samsung sets the foundation for a safer, more secure mobile experience for Galaxy users, and Auto Blocker takes this one step further by combining industry-leading security standards with user choice to allow customers to control their device their way. As the latest feature to be added to Samsung’s suite of security and privacy innovations, Auto Blocker further optimizes the mobile experience for users across the Galaxy ecosystem.

Auto Blocker is available now on Samsung Galaxy devices compatible with One UI 6. 

Continue reading

Share:

The 12th Regional Travel Fair (RTF) had a successful run, generating PHP 396 million from estimated business leads as well as PHP 1.3 million in actual sales for nationwide tourism stakeholders and weavers in its three-day run last October 13-15 at Robinsons Ilocos. The sales leads for this edition of RTF surpassed previous records, particularly with the upcoming launch of direct flights by Philippine Airlines between Cebu and Laoag which is set to take flight on December 15.

Organized by the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines, the RTF aims to strengthen and promote domestic tourism by showcasing tourism products and services within their locality, in their neighboring provinces, and all other destinations through the various representatives of the DOT regional offices. This particular fair is a milestone project for the organization as it is one of the first national tourism events that the TPB held in the Ilocos region.

“The Tourism Promotions Board brings this event to different parts of our beautiful country, allowing host regions to shine, exhibit their local products, and showcase their unique destinations. This RTF is an opportunity for all of us to fall in love over and over again with the Philippines. We are thrilled to have this

fair become everyone’s gateway to discover all that there is to love about the Ilocos region,” said TPB COO Maria Margarita Montemayor Norgrales.

Around 70 sellers/exhibitors participated in the business-to-business (B2B) sessions to expand their networks and establish innovative travel-related offerings with buyers that have similar business goals. Local officials also shared insights on their current tourism situation so that interested stakeholders can discover the potential of the destinations within Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, La Union, and Pangasinan.

The 12th RTF also helped interested travelers find their next destination within the country during the business-to-consumer (B2C) sessions held on October 14-15, 2023. Exhibitors from different parts of the country presented discounted tour packages, airline tickets, accommodations, woven products, and other local goods to the public.

The welcome dinner which hosted both the buyers and sellers was graced by key members of TPB management and partners in government reassuring the stakeholders of the commitment of support for tourism stakeholders. Present during the event were TPB COO Maria Margarita Montemayor Nograles, Ilocos Norte Vice Governor Cecilia Araneta-Marcos, Laoag Mayor Michael Marcos Keon, DOT Regional Office I OIC Evangeline Dadat, DOT Region 10 Regional Director Marie Elaine Unchuan, Provincial Tourism Officer of Ilocos Norte Xavier Ruiz, and TPB Domestic Promotions Department Manager Teresita Landan.

After the three-day affair, TPB members joined a post-event tour that brought them to top attractions within the region. The members were given the opportunity to choose either an experience of the rich culture and heritage of Baccara and Paoay, or experience a thrilling adventure through a tour of Laoag. This tour serves as an opportunity for sellers to also craft tour packages of Ilocos as they go back to their respective regions.

The 12th RTF in Ilocos was made possible through the collaboration of the TPB, DOT Region I, the Provincial Government of Ilocos Norte, the City Government of San Nicolas, and the City Government of Laoag. The event was also made possible through the event partners of the TPB, which are Robinsons Ilocos, Cebu Pacific, and Philippine Airlines.

Continue reading

Share:

Epic moments are now more accessible with the launch of the new Samsung Galaxy FE series. Start your epic journey and experience iconic design, unmatched creativity and productivity features, cutting-edge camera and audio capabilities with the new Galaxy S23 FE, Tab S9 FE and Buds FE.

Now is the time to experience the Galaxy ecosystem as epic offers are up for grabs until October 31, 2023. Get the 256GB variant of the Galaxy S23 FE series for the price of the 128GB variant and score savings worth PHP 3,000. Purchasing the Galaxy S23 FE also scores you 30% off on the Galaxy Buds FE and PHP 3,000 off on the Galaxy Tab S9.

Making it even easier on your pocket are the 24-month 0% interest credit card installment payment options (36 months if you’re a Citibank credit card user) and the 24-month 0% interest offer for Home Credit. You can also look into trading in your old device for discounts of up to PHP 14,000!

Need more reasons to try the new Galaxy FE series? Find out how the FE series is making everyday epic possible!

Galaxy S23 FE: Epic starts here with the Galaxy S Series’ Iconic Design, Pro-Grade Camera and Smooth Gaming Performance

With its long-lasting power, stylish design and stunning night shots, the Galaxy S23 is your gateway to lasting epic memories. The new Galaxy S23 FE takes after the iconic design of Galaxy S23 Series, with vibrant, modern colors in Mint, Graphite, Cream and Purple.

Everyday moments become epic when captured on Galaxy S23 FE with pro-grade camera features, 50MP high-resolution lens, and 3X optical zoom while Nightography lets you take clear selfies and portraits even in low light. The advanced digital image stabilization (VDIS) and optical image stabilizer (OIS) makes it easy to take smooth and steady shots on the go. In Pro Mode, adjust shutter speed, aperture, ISO and more, while AI-powered editing tools help elevate your creations and Photo Remaster breathes new life to your old or blurry photos!

For gaming and streaming, the Galaxy S23 FE’s powerful octa-core processor allows it to handle the action and smoothly multi-task, while the vapor chamber helps to control heat. The Adaptive 120Hz ensures smooth scrolling for a truly engaging viewing experience, while the long-lasting 4,500mAh battery  intuitively adjusts to conserve energy. Pair this with fast charging that powers up to 50 percent in just 30 minutes with a 25W Adapter[1].

All this comes to life on a bright Dynamic AMOLED 2x display pop to life even under varying light conditions.

The Galaxy S23 FE will be available at PHP 36,990 for the 128GB variant, and PHP 39,990 for the 256GB variant.

Galaxy Tab S9 FE and Tab S9 FE+: Epic Possibilities for Creativity and Productivity

Step into a world of epic possibilities with the Galaxy tab S9 FE and Tab S9 FE+. View, create and share in vivid detail on the bright screen and effortlessly match your unique vibe with the all-new playful colors Gray, Mint and Lavender!

The Galaxy Tab S9 FE and S9 FE+ delivers immersive entertainment, expressive creativity, and seamless productivity, all in one portable and ultra-durable device. Explore your passions and get your work done through a responsive Galaxy Tab S9 FE’s 10.9-inch and Tab S9 FE+’s 12.4-inch displays[2] — featuring an automatic refresh rate that adapts up to 90Hz. 

No need to worry about taking your Tab and S Pen to places as it offers enhanced durability - its IP68 rating means it's Samsung’s first water and dust-resistant Galaxy S FE tablet with S Pen ever.

Ideas and notes are easy to capture with Galaxy’s signature in-box, IP68-rated S Pen. Let your imagination run wild on pro-level notetaking with Samsung Notes and Goodnotes — optimized to provide a seamless S Pen experience and feel of writing on actual paper. Keep class notes, sketches, videos, and more with up to double the storage[3], plus the option to upgrade to 1TB with a microSD card.

The Tab S9 FE+’s long-lasting battery also offers up to 20 hours[4] of video playback on a single charge.

The Galaxy Tab S9 FE series will be available starting from PHP 26,990.

Galaxy Buds FE: An Epic Listening experience through Superior Sound, Powerful ANC and Ergonomic Design

Galaxy Buds FE offers an epic listening experience with powerful bass that offers deep and rich sound, while powerful Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and Ambient Sound enables you to tune out the noise. Phone calls are also crystal clear with the automatic personalized beamforming of the advanced three microphone system, along with AI-powered Deep Neutral Network (DNN), separating your voice from unwanted background noise.

The Galaxy Buds FE also provides the longest battery life of any Galaxy Buds, with up to 8.5 hours of playback with earbuds, and a total of up to 30 hours including the charging case[5]. They are also engineered to be comfortable enough to wear for a long time, designed for a more customized fit with three different sizes of ear tips and two different sizes for wingtips.

The Galaxy Buds FE are available for PHP 5,490 in two distinct, modern colors: Graphite and White[6].

One Seamlessly Connected Galaxy Ecosystem

With new FE devices, it’s easier than ever to experience the full power of the connected Galaxy ecosystem. Productivity is intuitive with Multi Control[7], which enables users to drag and drop content easily between multiple Galaxy devices. When creativity strikes, simply transfer videos or images from smartphone to tablet with Quick Share, for easier editing.

From your phone to your Watch, Tab or PC, the Galaxy Buds FE pairs easily with your Galaxy devices.2 With Auto Switch, Galaxy Buds FE connects to whatever device you are on.3 Start gaming on your Galaxy Tab S9 FE, switch to answer a call on your phone, then connect back to your game without missing a beat.  The Galaxy Buds FE also automatically syncs with your Samsung TV when you turn on Smart View for a personalized theatrical experience.4 

All these devices and connectivity capabilities uphold Samsung’s commitment to providing secure and private experiences. Galaxy S23 FE and Galaxy Tab S9 FE series are backed by Samsung Knox protection, meaning personal information is kept that way, by default. 

Experience the epic Galaxy S23 FE ecosystem – purchase now to enjoy amazing offers and savings!

To learn more about Galaxy S23 FE, please visit: https://www.samsung.com/ph/smartphones/galaxy-s/galaxy-s23-fe-mint-256gb-sm-s711blgcphl

To learn more about Galaxy Tab S9 FE series, please visit: https://www.samsung.com/ph/tablets/galaxy-tab-s/galaxy-tab-s9-fe-plus-5g-light-green-128gb-sm-x616blgaxtc

To learn more about Galaxy Buds FE, please visit: https://www.samsung.com/ph/audio-sound/galaxy-buds/galaxy-buds-fe-white-sm-r400nzwaasa

Continue reading

Share:

 

No spoilers ahead. Panuorin ang mga nagwaging maikling pelikula.

“Ilan ang napaiyak, ilan ang napatawa, ilan ang napasigaw, ilan ang nagurot, ilan ang nanghampas tuwing kinikilig habang nanunuod ng pelikula?” 

Ani Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program National Capital Region (4Ps NCR) Regional Coordinator Leah N. Bautista sa ginanap na 2nd annual search for the Regional Short Film Festival noong Oktubre 6 sa Axiaa Hotel, Quezon City. 

4Ps NCR Regional Coordinator Leah N. Bautista (Larawan Mula sa DSWD-NCR)

Dagdag pa niya na ang pelikula ay maaaring mag-udyok ng mga saloobin at magtulak ng mga aksyon sa buhay ng mga tao. 

Sa temang "Iisang mithiin para sa Matatag at sa Matagumpay na Pamilyang Pilipino," ang layunin ng short film festival ay ipakita ang transpormasyon ng mga benepisyaryo ng 4Ps habang sila'y umaasenso patungo sa sariling kakayahan at pinahusay na kalagayan. Ang mga maikling pelikulang ito ay magpapalaganap ng mas malalim na pang-unawa ng publiko at magpapahayag ng positibong epekto sa programa sa pamamagitan ng digital at social media channels.

Ang walong short film entries mula sa iba't ibang mga lungsod sa NCR ay sinuri sa simula ng kaganapan, at ito ay nagwakas sa pamamahagi ng mga parangal. Ang mga hurado ay mula sa Office of the President (OP), Philippine Information Agency - NCR (PIA-NCR) at Department of Social Welfare and Development - NCR (DSWD-NCR).

Ayon kay Program Coordinator Bautista, “Behind these short films that we have watched, we wanted to see the lives of our (4Ps) beneficiaries and how it played from the beginning up to today. Films like this have a remarkable capacity to inspire.”

Ang inisyatibong ito ay magbibigay-daan din para sa 4Ps na magbahagi ng mga kuwento ng inspirasyon, determinasyon, pagtitiyaga, at tagumpay habang ipinapakita ang kanilang mga kakayahan sa pag-arte, na nagbibigay sa kanila ng pagkakataon na maging magandang halimbawa sa kanilang komunidad.

Grand Winner: "KEYK" - HINURNONG PANGARAP AT TAGUMPAY! (Larawan Mula sa DSWD NCR)

1st Runner Up: "Gunita" (Larawan mula sa DSWD-NCR)

2nd Runner Up: "Pangarap na Bituin"  (Larawan mula sa DSWD NCR)

Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program 

Pinangungunahan ng DSWD, ang 4Ps ay ang pambansang estratehiya upang puksain ang kahirapan at isang programa ng pamumuhunan sa kapital ng tao na nagbibigay ng kondisyonal na cash transfer sa mga mahihirap na pamilya sa loob ng pitong (7) taon, upang mapabuti ang kanilang kalusugan, nutrisyon, at edukasyon.

Ang 4Ps ay nagbibigay pansin sa mga pangangailangan ng mga marginalized at vulnerable communities sa Pilipinas. Ito’y hindi lamang limitado sa isang tao o isang barangay na tumutulong sa pag-angat ng isang komunidad o isang pamilya, kundi ang pagtulong sa kapwa ay nagsisimula rin mula sa ating sariling pamilya. Nais ng short film festival ipakita ang “shared responsibility,” na sa pitong taon na pananatili ng mga pamilya sa programa ay maisasama sa magandang hinaharap.

PANUORIN

Narito ang tatlong nagwagi sa 4Ps NCR short film festival.

GRAND WINNER

Grand Winner: "KEYK" - HINURNONG PANGARAP AT TAGUMPAY! 

Operations Office: 3 – CALOOCAN CITY

Sa lungsod ng Kalookan, ang pamilya ni Ginang Osmana Tubera ay tatlong beses sinubok ng malupit na apoy sa kanilang tahanan. Ngunit sa bawat sunog, mas lalo silang tumitibay at nagkakaisa. Ang kanilang kwento ay hindi lamang tungkol sa pagbangon mula sa literal na abo, kundi pati na rin sa mga pagbabagong dulot ng mga pagsubok at epekto nito sa kanilang buhay.

1st Runner Up: "Gunita" 

Operations Office: 4 – QUEZON CITY (DISTRICTS 2,3 and 4)

A heartwarming journey towards self-sufficiency. Through tears and laughter, the 4Ps family comes together to reminisce about their past struggles and reflect on how they conquered them.

2nd Runner Up: "Pangarap na Bituin" 

Operations Office: 6 - MALABON CITY, NAVOTAS CITY, AND VALENZUELA CITY

Ang pamilya De Rosario ay mula sa mahirap na pamilya na pilit kumakayod at lumalaban sa hamon ng buhay para sa kanilang mga anak. Isang kahig-isang tuka kung ilalarawan ang kanilang paumuhay. Ang haligi ng tahanan ay isang contruction worker samantalang isang mabuting maybahay si Anabelle.

Tampok sa maigsing pelikula na ito ang kwento ng pighati, pagsusumikap, at tagumpay ng Pamilya Del Rosario katuwang ang Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program na naging saksi sa makulay na paglalakbay ng pamilya sa larong tinatawag na "reyalidad ng buhay. (PIA-NCR)

Continue reading

Share:

Technology has enabled us to do many things in an easier and more efficient way, becoming a crucial part of our everyday life. So it's no wonder that we are always looking for ways to care for our devices – especially when days are filled with work tasks, family commitments and personal pursuits.

Samsung recognizes that you deserve care that meets you when and where you need it. That is why Samsung Customer Service has continued to expand its range of offerings to ensure that you are provided with the broadest range of services - so you can get the right care for your Samsung, everytime.

Care that comes to you

Imagine not having to leave your home to get the care that you need for your devices. That is why Samsung has invested in customer care channels that bring services right at your doorstep!

If you own a Galaxy device and reside within NCR, you will be able to book a door-to-door Pick-up Service, wherein a service partner will pick up your device at your preferred schedule and address, repair it at the authorized service center, and have it delivered back to you once repair has been complete. Samsung also has the Galaxy TechVan, a first in the industry mobile service center that tours nationwide to offer repair services for your Galaxy devices and select home appliances. It has already been to cities like Pangasinan in Luzon, Naga City and Bacolod in Visayas, and in General Santos City and Davao Province in Mindanao.

Other ways you can get in touch with Samsung’s customer service representatives at the comfort of your home include their 24/7 Hotline, Live Chat for mobile devices, and a video call with Visual Support so you can also show them the problem with your home appliance. Samsung also offers Remote Service where you can let a Samsung expert remotely access your phone or TV to diagnose and assist you in fixing the issue.

If you like to figure things out independently, you can also opt for Self-Help and check out quick-fix solutions and FAQs in Samsung.com to help on your Samsung products. But if you still prefer to talk to a Customer Service representative face to face, Samsung is also taking steps to make this process more convenient. Try the Pre-booking Service and secure an appointment through Smart Q Service. Just visit Samsung.com, download the app, and schedule a visit at the nearest service center. You can also virtually line-up at home or on the road and get a ticket through the queuing app, reducing your wait times and allowing you to be more productive.

Care that is inclusive and sustainable 

Samsung strives to make customer services more inclusive and eco-friendly, with solutions that prioritize accessibility and sustainability. You can now set up a video conversation with a Samsung Sign Language Expert through Sign Language Support to get live support and assistance with your product. 

To prolong the life of your appliances, Samsung also offers services like Proactive Care, which includes check-up and cleaning of air condition units with the help of Samsung Authorized Service Centers nationwide. The proactive service automatically notifies you to schedule check-up and cleaning of your air conditioner so you can better maintain your AC.

To reduce waste, you can also have your Galaxy phone or TV repaired using Eco-Conscious Repair, which focuses on just the affected parts. With this innovative process, Samsung helps lower the cost of the parts you must buy, as well as the amount of electronic waste, while maintaining the same high level of service quality.

But if it is time to say goodbye to your beloved Galaxy device, Samsung also offers convenient and responsible options via the Electronic Waste Disposal (EWD) program. Drop boxes for EWD are deployed at different Samsung Authorized Service Center locations nationwide. 

All you must do is bring your mobile e-waste, drop them in the EWD box, and Samsung will take care of them for you by working with companies to take care of the last step in an environmentally friendly way. Free pick-up of unwanted appliances is also available in the NCR.

Be a Samsung Member and get the extra care you deserve

Be a Samsung Member and enjoy the perks that come with it! Join the community of Samsung fans through the Samsung Members app, get customer support, insider tips and exclusive promos. You can also earn rewards and explore a world of inspiration with curated content just for you.

If you own a Galaxy S Series or Z Series device, you are also entitled to the Samsung Concierge benefits, where you’ll have a dedicated toll-free hotline with customer partners ready to assist with configuration, diagnostics, and even help with repairs. You can also secure your appointments via this hotline and can save time by skipping long lines when you visit selected Samsung Authorized Service Centers. 

And if you’re worried about not having a phone while it’s being repaired, you can even request a  temporary loaner unit. Loaner units also apply to some home appliances while yours is being serviced.

Get the extra care you deserve so you can worry less and enjoy more with your Samsung devices. To learn more about how Samsung cares for you, visit https://www.samsung.com/ph/support/. 

Continue reading

Share:

Launched for the first time in the Philippines, Samsung’s Solve for Tomorrow aims to unleash the creativity and potential of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) students in discovering social solutions with the use of technology. In partnership with the Department of Education (DepEd) and the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), Solve for Tomorrow aims to provide opportunities for top students to transform emerging ideas into action and unlock their full potential as future leaders. This global program has successfully helped over 2 million people and has reached beyond the boundaries of 50 other countries, including the Philippines, as the latest addition this 2023. 

Samsung is inviting public science high school students from Grades 8 to 10 to showcase their groundbreaking ideas that can positively impact communities and create a better tomorrow. Participating schools can form teams with a maximum of four (4) students and one (1) faculty advisor for every entry. There will be no limit to how many teams can join per school.

The team should identify a local community or an environmental sustainability problem and provide a design proposal outlining sustainable and feasible solutions with the help of technology. The proposal can be in a slide presentation format (5 slides maximum) or a Word document (2,500 words maximum). After completing the proposal, teams must submit their entry via the Solve for Tomorrow registration site before or on November 3, 2023.

Ten shortlisted teams will have a chance to be coached by Samsung experts, and present their proposals to an esteemed board of judges. The Grand Prize winner will receive Samsung devices worth up to ₱650,000 for their school, ₱190,000 worth of Samsung devices for the team and their teacher adviser, ₱100,000 cash prize for team members, and P 20,000 cash prize for faculty adviser. Full mechanics and prizes can be found on the official website. 

Here are just some of the solutions developed by winners of Samsung’s Solve for Tomorrow from around the world. 

Looking for a study buddy? TAZ’s App got your back

Indeed, wherever young innovators triumph, each convenes to develop solutions for a better tomorrow.  TAZ, the winning team from Malaysia in 2021, from St. Francis Institution, Malacca, developed an app that helps Malaysian students around the country to connect with study buddies who share similar interests and help them acquire access to a variety of learning materials nationwide and equip their peers with time management tips.

PathFinder System:  Key to safer spaces in schools

A gunshot detection and evacuation system was one of the 2022 Solve for Tomorrow’s grand prize winners in the United States. Designed by students from Porter High School, Texas, the PathFinder system addresses crowd stampedes caused by a threat of an active shooter. It aims to ensure students' safety inside their school and ease the fear of school shootings. It essentially eradicates false alarms and its LED lights change color to indicate the proximity of danger while pointing out the safest way out. It was one of the smartest prototypes proposed in the competition, as it is highly functional and sustainable.

Support athletes during competitions with the Human Health Band 

With an innovation that aimed to assist athletes on their road to victory, Strawberry Crest High School from Dover, Florida, was awarded one of the four grand-winners for Solve for Tomorrow 2023. With a Human Health Band designed to monitor an athlete’s body temperature and prevent heat-related deaths,  the team conducted thorough research on making this project feasible and sustainable to save lives using recycled fabrics and developed software. 

Join Samsung in its mission to help build a better future and be part of the country’s very first Solve for Tomorrow competition. The deadline for submission is November 03, 2023. Interested applicants can learn more and submit their entries at the Samsung Solve for Tomorrow site: https://www.samsung.com/ph/solve-for-tomorrow/

Continue reading

Share: