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The iPhone 8 Might Not Have a Fingerprint Scanner

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iphone 8

When it comes to Apple products, people look forward to leaked pictures. We get a glimpse of the new model and features, which make us even more excited for the actual release. The first leaked photos of the iPhone 8 showed an edge-to-edge screen and no home button.

iphone 8

KGI Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo predicted yesterday that the new Apple iPhone won’t have a fingerprint scanner either. Why? because Apple does not have the necessary technology to place the fingerprint scanner underneath the screen. People use their fingerprints for banking, authorizing App Store purchases, and activating Apple Pay. Without the fingerprint scanner, the brand may be cutting off some of its convenience features. Aside form the edge-to-edge OLED screen, the phone features 2.5D glass, long buttons, dual cameras, and a vertical rear camera.

Apple does have the option to place an on-screen fingerprint reader but the technology is still slow and they might not have enough time for their fall launch.

Can you love it without the fingerprint reader or will you be keeping your current model?

[Select All]

 

Photos courtesy of Select All

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This Laptop Case Turns Into a Mini-Desk Wherever You Work

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Laptops are essential for many working people now. Doing reports and presentations isn’t confined to office spaces anymore and cafés are practically our second desks.

Aside from the software installed in our laptops, we also need accessories to make our working life easier and organized. That includes storing laptop cables and cleaning the screen.

Typo Buffalo Mobile Laptop Desk

This multipurpose bag will let you carry your laptop and also serves as a mini desk. It also has compartments for your cables and other tech necessities. Available at Uptown Mall.

Logitech Wireless Mouse M325

Recently, I realized that using a touchpad takes up time while I work. Especially when it starts glitching in the middle of something important. So it’s best to invest on a wireless mouse with a smooth scroll function for documents and web. Available at PC Express.

Sennheiser HD 1 In-Ear Wireless Earphones

Whether you want to listen to music while working or need to transcribe an interview, opt for Sennheiser’s wireless earphones. It gives you clear HD sound, and it has a neckband design for hassle-free use. Available at Power Mac Center.

Cocoon Grid-It Organizer Kit-Roll

Keep your cables and earphones from getting tangled with this case. Place them neatly in the organizer and roll them up. No need to get annoyed every time you pull them out your bag. Available online.

Bench Alcogel Clean Machines

These mini-wipes come in handy when you need to clean your screen, keyboard, and touchpad. Each box contains 20 individual pieces and it’s affordable too. Available at Glorietta 2.
 
 
Art by Lara Intong
 
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This Survey Says 18 Percent of People Use Apps to Make Their Sex Lives Better

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If you’ve been reading us regularly (and we sincerely hope you do), you’ve probably figured we’re big on technology jumpstarting your dating life. Between the various dating websites and apps focused on relationships and sex, we’re all looking for love (in all its beautiful and twisted forms), but the way we look for it has changed due to the Internet and the necessity of smart phones.

Clue, together with the Kinsey Institute, conducted one of the largest surveys on sex and relationships, spanning 198 countries, 140,000 responses, and 15 languages to find out how exactly our love lives and bedroom activities are affected by technology. Here are a few results that offered a fresh insight when it comes to relationships and how we might need to second guess our notions about hook-up culture.

#1 The look of love

A hopeless romantic will find joy in a few of the results. First of which is how 15 percent of respondents look for a serious relationship. This applies even to respondents between 18 and 20 years old. Nine percent use it not just for hooking up but to find someone to be with for the long haul. Amanda Gesselman, research scientist at the Kinsey Institute said, “Using apps to find either long-term or short-term partners but not friends with benefits, may signal a reliance on tech/apps for either commitment or spontaneity, but not for regular sex with no romantic connection.”

#2 A different appventure

How did you first learn about sex? We all have our own awkward stories along with horrific accounts about web searches gone awry. Phone apps are making our sexual journey a little less weird, apparently. Eighteen percent of the survey’s respondents said they use an app to learn more about sex. At the front runner of sex ed via apps are the Chinese, followed by the Dutch.

#3 Sexting is still hot

LDR? Not into going out to the club and to book a motel? Do you want to wake up in your bed after a steamy night? You’re probably a fan of sexting. A huge 67 percent of all respondents said they have sexted, using either the old-school SMS or Snapchat. No surprises as the people in the 18 to 34-year-old bracket are big sex-over-Snapchat users. This number has gone up from Clue’s previous 2012 survey. From an anomaly in traditional dating norms, sexting is becoming part of the norm “…sexting may be becoming a new, but typical, step in a sexual or romantic relationship.”

#4 Results for: Relationship rules

In the survey 12 percent admitted they use the app to improve their relationships. What to get her on her first anniversary? Cheeky things to do with your long-time partner in the bedroom? It turns out that 23 percent of men fire up their phones to get answers to those questions. Which is a good thing as it promotes learning more about one another and making an effort to discover ways to improve the relationship. So the next time you see your boyfriend on his phone, he might just be looking for the next best way to surprise you.

#5 How many nights in a row?

Do you track your sex life? I was quite taken aback by this factor in the survey results, but apparently, people like carving notches into their bedposts. Filipinos top this part of the results as 52 percent use an app to track sex. But it’s only limited to how many times they do the deed and not so much about health concerns.

#6 Safe spaces

The last part of the survey presents how the LGBT community finds cyberspace a better place to look for partners. Forty-nine percent of homosexual people use apps to find a partner. Oh, and according to the survey, members of the LGBT community get more action than their heterosexual counterparts.

 

Art by Lara Intong

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These Travel Apps Will Help You Find Flights and Secret Destinations

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travel apps

When planning a vacation, no matter the destination or length of stay, there are many variables to consider. You have to find the right accommodations and book flights that fit within your budget. It gets even more difficult when you start planning for a group. Thank God for technology because there are apps you can download to make this process easier. Below is a list of apps that offer offline maps, a group planner, and more. Download them and start planning your next vacation.

Currency

When shopping abroad, you have to be mindful of the prices so you know if what you’re spending on is worth it. This converter gives up-to-date rates so it also helps when you’re exchanging money from one currency to another.

currency app

Download: Available on iTunes App Store and Google Play.

CityMaps2Go

Find your way around cities you’ve never been to with these maps. You can save the places that you want to go to and share them with your friends and family. There are also downloadable offline maps that you can get so you don’t have to rely on Wifi or data.

citymaps2go

Download: Available on iTunes App Store and Google Play.

Skyscanner

Skyscanner gives you the cheapest airfares from more than 1,000 airlines all in one app. This will save you time since you won’t have to check multiple sites. You can also search for accommodations in the country you will be visiting and even hire transportation from the airport.

skyscanner

Download: Available on iTunes App Store and Google Play.

Funliday

If you’re planning a trip with your family, try using Funliday. You can easily plan your itinerary and share it so that everyone has the details they need. It even allows you to check what transportation works best for your plan whether it’s via a taxi or train.

funliday

Download: Available on iTunes App Store and Google Play.

Packpoint

Do you tend to forget things when packing your bags? Packpoint will make sure that you bring everything you need. You can set your destination and activities then it will supply you with a list. You can go through the list and delete what you don’t need and add what you do. Check off each item as you add it to your suitcase.

packpoint

Download: Available on iTunes App Store and Google Play.

Momondo

Looking for cheap flights and hotel accommodations? Try downloading Momondo. It will show you options from major airlines as well as budget ones. You can even book the flight you want, directly from your phone. If you’re picking between flights, you can save them and share with your friends and family to help you decide.

momondo

Download: Available on iTunes App Store and Google Play.

 

Art by Lara Intong

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‘Starting Uber Again’: Read Excited Reactions After the 15-Day Hiatus

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The LTFRB finally lifted Uber’s suspension after the ridesharing company paid a P190-million fine. (We want to know how they came up with that amount.) Of course, collective cheers were seen on social media after the 15-day hiatus ended. We could finally go home with ease—if there was no surge that is.

Netizens happily shared screenshots of their app to welcome Uber back. (Yes, including us.)

Many posted how they got home fast and safe when they used Uber again.

There were also cute exchanges between riders and drivers.

Of course, we can’t forget the witty song references.

Meanwhile, Saab Magalona also suggested something that can improve the rider’s experience.

You get the picture: Everyone’s elated to finally use Uber again to get around. Yay for more options and easy bookings! Again, welcome back!

 

Photo courtesy of Unsplash

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The iPhone 8 Is Expected to Launch this Sept. 12

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It’s quite clever how Apple can be both mysterious and blatant at the same time. The Verge reports that the invite for its Sept. 12 event, expected to be the launch date of the iPhone 8, simply says “Let’s meet at our place.”

Given all the leaks and clues, the said event, which will be held at the newly-established Steve Jobs Theater in Apple Park, is the launch date of the most exciting iPhone version there is so far. The iPhone 8 will have an edge-to-edge OLED display and a 3D face scanning camera, among many other innovative features.

This will also be when Apple is expected to launch new versions of the iPhone 7 and 7s, upgraded with wireless charging. We will also get to meet the 4K Apple TV, the new Apple Watches with LTE connectivity plus the new iPads.

In addition to this, it is anticipated that Apple will be rolling out the final versions of its latest Mac software. Get ready for a big update.

Forbes predicts that Sept. 12 is the last date possible Apple should annouce the iPhone 8 if they want to meet sales targets for the year.  In publication’s report of how Apple announces and sells the iPhone, it could be seen that it would happen on dates that would be strategic enough to allow the new iPhone to be available for sale at least a week before the company closes its fiscal year.

In other words, Sept. 12 is now or never for the biggest technology baby of the year. Are you ready?

[The Verge and Forbes]

 

Photo courtesy of TrustedReviews

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Related stories: 
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The Different Headphones You Should Use For Work, Exercise, and Play

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The dream is to have our own background music while we’re walking and doing errands. But since we don’t live in a movie, we have to settle to listening to our playlists with headphones.

You might look at headphones and think that they’re all the same. In reality, they work differently depending on your activities. Plus, they’re easy to wear and carry around since you can hang them around your neck. Scroll down to see our picks for your gym days and leisure time.

For work: Sony Noise Canceling Extra Bass Foldable Headphones

Whether I’m working at home or in a cafe, I find that I focus more when I don’t hear the background noise. These noise canceling headphones from Sony would work well for you. It’s wireless and Bluetooth-activated too so you don’t have to worry about tangled cables. Just make sure you level out the volume to your liking as the bass will sound heavier. Available at Glorietta 2.

For Netflix and movie nights: Philips Citiscape Strada Headphones

Get into the zone while watching your favorite shows and films with the Citiscape Strada headphones. Made with high-powered sound drivers, the audio will come out clearer and more detailed. You’re sure to not miss a line from the characters and you’ll get to immerse yourself in the surroundings. Available at Anson’s, The Link Makati.

For travel: Bose Soundlink On-Ear Bluetooth Headphones

Bulky headphones are a no-no when you’re traveling since they just add to the weight of your luggage. Opt for these Bose Soundlink headphones which is lightweight and guarantees clear and crisp sound, be it music or phone calls. It also has a 15-hour battery life, which is perfect for long flights and road trips. Available at Power Mac Center, Greenbelt 3.

For doing errands: Beats Solo3 Wireless On-Ear Wireless Headphones

These have comfortable cushioned ear cups, making it suitable for all-day wear. They also come in a chrome rose gold color, so it can add color to your casual outfit. Plus, you can charge the battery for just five minutes and you can use the headphones for three hours. Perfect for days when you need to leave for a quick errand. Available online.

For the gym: JBL Under Armour Sport Wireless Heart Rate Headphones

When you’re doing medium to high-intensity exercises, it’s advisable to use thin wireless headphones. These JBL headphones are suitable as they have ear hooks so they won’t budge while you work out. The touch sensor feature also makes it easy for you to switch songs or access the UA Record app, which you can use to check your heart rate and progress. Available at SM North EDSA.

 

Art by Lara Intong

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Get Ready for the New iPhone 8 and iPhone X

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iPhone8_iPhoneX_Leaks

Sept. 12 at 10 a.m. Pacific Time is the time and date Apple users (including me) have been waiting for. Reports say that this will be the event where they’ll launch the new line of iPhones to celebrate its 10th year anniversary.

To lessen the surprise factor and impact, a few allegedly rogue Apple employees leaked details regarding the launch just days before—it was, they say, the final build of the Apple iOS 11 operating system. So what does this leak reveal?

Meet the iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus, and the iPhone X

Photo courtesy of The Guardian

Apple will be skipping the launch of the iPhone 7s and iPhone 7s Plus and simply call it the new iPhone 8 and iPhone 8 Plus. We still don’t know the reasoning behind this, but it could be because they will also launch a higher end version which they dubbed as the iPhone X.

Hello to Face Recognition

Aside from the usual Touch ID, the new line of iPhones will now have Face Recognition aka Face ID. This sets the bar higher as it allows you to approve purchases, downloads, and more, just by using your facial features. We’re so close to retinal scans like the ones from Mission Impossible, can you feel it?

Goodbye home button to make space for the OLED screen display

Rumors say it’s possible that they moved the fingerprint scanner at the back of your phone and that the side buttons may have additional roles. It won’t just be a power button but probably a new way to activate Siri or even Apple Pay.

The home button will also take a backseat and may completely be gone giving room to the all-screen OLED display. We’ve heard this before, so it’s no big deal.

Wireless charging

Apple may have addressed their faulty (aka easy to break) iPhone wires by letting them go altogether. The leak suggests that the new iPhones have wireless charging features allowing you to charge and possibly sync sans the Lightning Cable.

3D Emojis

As if our current selection of emojis are not enough, Apple is said to launch Animoji. This allows you to use 3D animated emojis that reflect your current facial expression and voice through the use of the face scanner. Technology is insane and creepy!

Better cameras

Rejoice Instagrammers, vloggers, and basically every other content creator. iPhone 8 is said to have better cameras that almost mimic a DSLR sans the bulk—expect creamier bokeh, shallow depth effects, and even 4K quality video.

Well, we just have a few hours left to finally confirm or debunk these leaks and rumors, so we’ll have to wait and see. At the moment, what I’m actually trying to digest is the $1,000 price tag for just the flagship phone. Are you willing to dish that much cash for the features above? Let us know in the comments below.

[The Guardian, 9 to 5 Mac, and USA Today]

 

Photo courtesy of Benjamin Geskin

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10 of the Most Important Things to Know About the iPhone X

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The big day finally arrived. Apple unveiled the newest models of the iPhone. The iPhone X along with the iPhone 8 and 8 Plus were introduced to the public in the new Steve Jobs Theater. There are a few things that the reveal confirmed what we learned from the various leaks. But there were still a few surprises so here’s what you need to know.

#1 It’s called “ten”

The latest model isn’t the anti-climactic 9. ( I wonder if there will be one next year, but that seems silly.) iPhone X is “iPhone ten” to make the 10-year-anniversary of the smartphone.

#2 It ditched the home button

True to what the leaks speculated, the new phone now has an on-screen home button, doing away with the circular bottom one found in all iPhones since their inception. What this allows is a huge 5.8 inch OLED Super Retina display. To wake your phone, all you have to do is lift it. The control center will now be accessible by swiping down from the top right corner of the phone.

#3 Forget Touch ID, there’s now Face ID

Welcome to the future. To unlock your phone, all you have to do is look at it. The Super Retina display contains the True Depth camera which backs up Face ID. This is how you will aunthenticate online payments and authorized saved passwords. So next time you have that big online shopping splurge, you literally have to face the damage you did. The Face ID is said to still work despite hats, sunglasses, and makeup.

#4 Longer battery time

Compared to the 7, the iPhone X will have two hours more battery time. This is thanks to Apple’s latest processor called the A11 Bionic. This allows for 30 percent faster graphics when put up against the 7 with its A10 processor.

#5 Wireless charging

iPhone users know the pain of losing or breaking the charging wire. That will no longer be a reality for a X user. The X will get its juice via a plate at the back of the phone that receives inductive currents from a charging pad called AirPower.

#6 Yes, the camera is better

The dual-camera system of the iPhone was retained for this latest model but it’s not vertically positioned at the back of your phone. The quality of photos shall now be crisper and better with 12 MP sensors and image stabilizers.

The front-facing camera will also allow for better selfies with the ability to blur the background, allowing for a depth of field feature found in DSLR camera.

#7 More expressive emojis

Animoji is the phone’s 3D emojis that can reflect the miniscule details of an expression. Thus,  your fox, cat, and dog emojis can express an emotion, tailored to your own facial expression. But you can only send and see it via iMessage.

#8 What’s it made of?

The X is made of steel and glass. We don’t know yet how sturdy it will be and it is so far only going to be in two colors: space grey and silver. The headphone jack, which was eradicated with the 7, remains nowhere to be found.

 

#9 Don’t forget about the price tag

The million dollar question: How much is it? The X only has two versions in terms of capacity. The tag is at $999 for a 64GB. The 256GB one is at $1,149.

#10 When can I get it?

You can pre-order on Oct. 27 over the website and shipping starts on Nov. 3. Consider it your early Christmas gift to yourself…for at least three Christmases over?

[Business Insider and The Verge]

 

Photos courtesy of Business Insider and Apple

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How to Not Stress Over a Selfie

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We all have those moments wherein we don’t feel content with the selfies that we take. Our problems include bad lighting, getting blurred photos, or one of your friends unintentionally disrupts the photo. The list goes on and on until we lose phone memory.

More often than not, though, good selfies can happen either by chance or when you have the right tools like the ASUS Zenfone Selfie phones. If you feel our sentiment, we have a formula of what we need-slash-want to perfect each photo.

#1 A good photo editing software

Sometimes our photos need a little tweak so they’ll look brighter or if you want to add filters to them. It’s also a balancing act of making it look natural and not too cartoonish. For this, you can use the SelfieMaster app which allows you to beautify your photos, videos, and even your livestreams.

#2 Works in the dark

Taking photos in low light is tricky, and setting your camera to night mode won’t work just as well. So having a softlight LED flash for your front and back camera will come in handy.

#3 Crystal clear

No need to worry about blurry and grainy photos. The SelfieMaster technology will ensure that you get high-definition selfies with just one click.

#4 No one gets cropped out

Isn’t it hassle when one of your friends can’t fit in the frame? Good thing the ASUS Zenfone Selfie series has a wide-angle front camera to make sure that you capture everyone in your group.

#5 Instagram-worthy shots

Once you’ve taken your selfies, (or “wefies”) it’s almost mandatory to share it on social media. Thanks to the points above, choosing a good photo won’t be a hassle anymore. You can also add hashtags to give the photo/s more traction. Aside from #OOTD and #friendshipgoals, you can also use #4theSmile. For each photo with that hashtag, ASUS Philippines will donate to sponsor Operation Smile Foundation’s medical missions. Post a good photo and do it for a good cause—a great combo, don’t you think?

 

Photos courtesy of ASUS Philippines

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How Meditation Apps Can Help You De-Stress

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meditation

Taking care of yourself is very important, eating healthy and following a strict skin regimen are steps you can take to do that. However, we sometimes forget about our mental health. We’re constantly bombarded with information either at work or even at home that we forget to take a break. Being able to relax, breathe, and just empty the mind for a few minutes will help your overall wellness. Meditation can also help in highly stressful situations wherein you’re having a meltdown. Not only will you feel more relaxed but it also has other benefits like helping you sleep better. For people who are on the go or for emergency situations, here are some meditation apps that you can download to help get you started.

Headspace

Start off with the basics pack which teach you the essentials of living a healthy life. The guided meditations help you focus on your breathing as you try to relax. Beyond that they also offer other packs that can help you with relationships as well as SOS sessions for when you’re having a meltdown.

headspace

Download: Available on iTunes App Store and Google Play.

Aura

aura

If you’re looking to reduce stress and anxiety, try Aura’s three-minute meditations. Choose how you’re feeling that day and the app will choose the best meditation for you. You can then rate your experience so that the app can provide you with better sessions as you keep using them. It also allows you to track your mood pattern so you can see how you’ve been doing weekly and monthly.

Download: Available on iTunes App Store and Google Play.

Calm

calm

Having trouble sleeping at night? Calm might be able to help you. You can choose guided meditations that are three to 25 minutes long. It has breathing programs and sleep stories to help you de-stress and sleep better.

Download: Available on iTunes App Store and Google Play.

Smiling Mind

smiling mind

Apart from playing games, stimulate your child’s mind via teaching them meditation early through Smiling Mind. First, you check in and input your mood. After that you can choose from a variety of programs ranging from seven years old to adults. There are also ones for mindfulness in the workplace.

Download: Available on iTunes App Store and Google Play.

Stop, Breathe & Think

Aside from guided meditations, this app also recommends yoga and acupressure videos depending on your mood. Start and end your day with meditation that is customizable and will really help you become more mindful.

Download: Available on iTunes App Store and Google Play.

 

Art by Lara Intong

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Today In Misogynistic Devices: The App That Takes Your Makeup Off

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In the continuing saga of “Misogynistic Traps: They’re Everywhere,” a man created an app that reveals what a person would look like without makeup on. Because no woman put on a Snapchat filter wondering what they’d look like barefaced, we have balm cleansers for that. And as for the creepy men who believe in the creed of “Take her swimming on the first date”? Congratulations on getting a step closer to an app which gives you the ability to look underneath their clothes. Gross.

It’s called MakeApp and comes at $0.99 per download. Ashot Gabrelyanov, creator of the said app, claims that the media outlets are the ones making the creators look like “a bunch of ‘tech bros’ trying to hurt women, which is so far from the truth.” Buzzfeed notes the Ashnot is a pro-Russia propagandist and was once behind LifeNews, a pro-Russia news portal. Ashnot also emphasized that the app also has other features. MakeApp can also simulate what you’d look like with makeup on. But that’s nothing new, right?

Sure, it’s not hurting women, they said. But it’s clear that the power to look under a woman’s face beat whenever you want is downright creepy. It falls right next to the microtransgressions that go “You’re so much prettier without makeup” or “You wear too much makeup.”

Women who have used the app have expressed how attacked they feel. They also said that the app’s no-makeup function adds shadows to your face and blemishes that don’t exist. It also lightens dark skin. Great, so the app isn’t just apparently misogynistic, it’s a bit racist as well.

Clearly, it adds to the perception that women’s makeup, a matter of personal choice and self-improvement, is taken lightly. Who cares what you want to present to the world and how many minutes you spent getting your foundation just right? It’s just a flimsy thing men can take from you or even tax you for it because your right to self-expression doesn’t matter. We’ll strip you of it without you knowing and even make fun of you. Nevermind that it’s a violation of privacy.

And, no surprises, here, it’s already being used by trolls to make fun of women.

It makes me shudder to think someone gave people this kind of power without a second thought. With all the potential of technology, we ended up with something so useless but also damaging. No, I don’t want to hear the “It’s just makeup” comments because as much as going without is important, the option to go with it is something that should only be dictated by the face it’s going to be applied on. It shouldn’t be subject to the hands of men who want to shame women.

But here we are. What is the world coming to?

 

Art by Lara Intong

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Predicting the Popular Internet Slang Words For 2018

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The list of Internet slang words is always evolving. By the time you learn what a term means, another one is bound to pop up somewhere. We can’t keep up and it’s leaving us #shookt. (Yes, I did that.)

Now that we’re in 2018, people have already predicted which ones will be popular among netizens. We also scoured through social media to see what they’ve been typing up for the last few months. You can still expect the usual like “fam,” “savage,” and “tea.” But here are new Internet slang that you should start familiarizing yourself with.

“Puppo/Doggo”

What it means: A cute way to refer to a dog or puppy

Internet linguist Gretchen McCulloch told Bustle that “puppo” and “doggo” aren’t going anywhere this year. “It’s no secret that the world in a somewhat unsettled state and that societal issues are at an all-time high. In the 2017 year in particular, to escape the madness, it was common for people to focus on social good and all of the warm and fuzzy feels,” she said. So you might just find yourself saying this to every dog you see from now on.

“Wig”

What it meansUsually comes after “snatched,” which expresses excitement or happiness.

According to Urban Dictionary, this term is mostly used by women and gay men. It notes that this is a common expression when their favorite divas like Beyoncé does something amazing. This is also another version of “snatching weaves,” and usually comes with a GIF of a bald person for, you know, added humor.

“Gucci”

What it means: Something cool or great; highly coveted

“Gucci” is technically an old slang word, but it’s gained popularity again thanks to hit songs like “Gucci Gang” by rapper Lil Pump. Besides, who wouldn’t want to have a luxe brand’s name in their vocabulary to describe something awesome? Make everything feel like Gucci!

“Clapback”

What it means: A witty response to an argument

We had no shortage of celebrity and influencer clapbacks on social media in previous years. Bustle reported that as people become more outspoken about various issues, expect to see this term more on social media.

“Sus”

What it means: Abbreviation for “suspicious”

No, this isn’t the same as our Filipino expression. “Sus” is often used if someone or something is being shady. Though, we don’t know if using this abbreviation is necessary now that we have 280 characters on Twitter.

“Receipts”

What it means: Evidence, mostly used to expose someone

With the rise of call-out culture in social media, the term “receipts” have often popped up. This usually refers to screenshots and photos of the person/people they want to expose. This is particularly useful when a woman wants to bring to light someone’s abusive and gross ways. One great example was when Ambra Battilana Gutierrez released the voice recording of Harvey Weinstein where he admitted to groping her breasts.

“Schrödinger’s Text”

What it means: According to Oddee: “If you turn your phone off the text is both received and not received until you turn it back on and see.”

This is a play on the thought experiment Schrödinger’s cat, which states that you can’t know if the cat is dead or alive until you open the box. So if you’re anxiously waiting for a text that isn’t likely to come, just turn off your phone and tell your friends that you’re doing a Schrödinger’s Text for a few hours. This will lessen your worry and the blow if the person rejects your offer.

Ravan”

What it means: A version of “laban,” (fight) which offers motivation to another person

We know that Filipino terms like “lodi” and “petmalu” are everywhere on social media now. Another word that you should be familiar with is “ravan,” which is commonly heard in variety show It’s Showtime and we also sometimes see Kathryn Bernardo use this on her Instagram Stories.

 

Art by Lara Intong

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Next in Tech? Smart Mirror and Apps That Tell You How to Dress

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Mirror_smart_Fashion

What if we told you that you can have a virtual stylist right at your fingertips? Or that your current mirror is nothing compared to the upcoming smart ones that superimpose the recent trends on your reflection and even place you in a virtual location so you can picture your outfit against a scenario?

Well, ladies. This is the future of fashion. First we have Amazon’s Echo Look, the extension of Alexa that helps you decide on what to wear as it gives second opinion on your looks which are all based on the combination of “machine learning algorithms with advice of fashion specialists.” It tells you which color and cut suits your body and complexion better, which helps making decisions much easier. A downside is that it doesn’t take into consideration where you are going—so it might just pick a day dress for a cocktail night out just because it think it looks better on you!

Echo Look is a voice-controlled camera that takes your OOTDs in your behalf. All you gotta say is, “Alexa, take my picture.”

Another form of tech that’s just been patented is what CNN calls a “blended reality mirror.” This, as mentioned above, superimposes different looks on your reflection and even sets you in a virtual restaurant or party to help you match looks. Cool, huh?

Rumors say that Amazon might just be the company to cop this up, probably as the level up for the existing Echo Look. In the future, it can help you decide if that recent collection of Gucci really suits you and your style preference.

A lot more brands are now upping their shopping quality—from the presence and ease of e-commerce to installations of touchscreen mirrors at stores that allow you to check other styles, color, or size.

Trust us when we say it’s true and not just some Black Mirror episode.

[CNN Tech]

 

Photo courtesy of Pinterest

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This Phone Will Make You Feel Like a One-Man Prod Team

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The new year is the best time to make lots of memories for the next few months. And yes, that includes the good, bad, and embarrassing moments that’ll take place.

With all the festivities that will happen, taking photos is a must. How will you look back on your fun and embarrassing moments if you don’t? Instead of bringing your bulky DSLR to take high-quality photos just like social media influencers do. You can just rely on your phone—particularly the new Nokia 8. Think of it as having a mini production team you can fit in your pocket.

So if you’re considering getting a new phone, here’s what you need to know about Nokia 8. Plus, how it can help you #slay your photos and videos.

#1 Sturdy and sleek design

We all have those days when we unexpectedly drop our phones. Worse is when they have a chipped case or broken LCD. Good thing the Nokia 8 is made from a full aluminum unibody that encloses its powerful Android system (more on that later). It’s also slim at 7.3 mm so you don’t have to worry about carrying a bulky phone.

#2 Works fast

Thanks to the Nokia 8’s Qualcomm Snapdragon 835 mobile platform and 4 gb RAM, you’ll get maximum performance without any lag. It lessens the hassle of restarting your phone over and over.

#3 Bigger space for everything

Are you the type of person who takes a lot of photos and videos, to the point that you get full memory? We know how that feels. You don’t have to worry about that with Nokia 8’s 64 gb internal memory and Google Photos’ unlimited storage. So snap as much as you want!

#4 Best flat lay photos

Speaking of taking photos, Nokia 8 has a 13 megapixel color and monochrome camera–both primary and back cameras. It’s built in with an auto-focus in the front which will give you high-quality selfies and groufies. It also works well under low light, perfect for those who love the night life. You’re sure to have clearer photos for your flat lays, #foodstagrams, and Christmas parties.

#5 Livestream galore

The camera is also great for videos, especially if you want to livestream your activities on Facebook and YouTube. With just one tap, you can access the broadcasting feature within the camera app. Easy, right?

#6 Clear picture and sound

To ensure that your photos and videos are crisp, Nokia 8’s screen is made from Corning Gorilla Glass 5. This is bright enough to let you see and edit your photos accordingly. Meanwhile, it’s also built in with a spatial 360-degree audio technology which gives you that Hollywood-quality surround sound to relive all your memories. Just make sure you keep the volume low in public, especially if you have a video of your friends singing out loud.

Get into the beat with your JBL Go Bluetooth speaker when you buy any of the Nokia smartphones from selected dealers. Promo runs from Jan. 1 to 31, 2018. FTEB Permit No. 15744 Series of 2017.

 

Art by Lara Intong

Photos courtesy of Nokia

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Did Kylie Jenner Cause the Snapchat Stock to Drop?

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Just like (almost) everyone else, Kylie Jenner is over Snapchat. Last Wednesday posted on Twitter, “sooo does anyone else not open Snapchat anymore? Or is it just me… ugh this is so sad.”


The next day, Snapchat felt that sadness as their stock dropped significantly.

Photo courtesy of Harper’s Bazaar

According to Harper’s Bazaar, Kylie is Snapchat’s most influential user so although they can’t confirm it was the caused by her tweet, it definitely could be. The Verge also reported on the timing of everything. At 1:30 p.m. ET on Wednesday, the Snapchat stock was at $19.02. Kylie then posted her tweet at 4:05 p.m. ET, which is when the stock started to drop. It was also reported that the drop in their stock is estimated at around $1.5 billion in market value. Yikes!

So why isn’t Kylie a fan of Snapchat anymore? Well, it could be its new interface. They recently updated the app and Kylie shared that she wanted the old Snapchat back.


If you didn’t think Kylie was influential before, this situation should change your mind. Also, now that Kylie isn’t on Snapchat as much, should we expect more content on her Instagram Stories? We sure hope so.

[Harper’s Bazaar]

 

Photo courtesy of Kylie Jenner’s Instagram account

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This Galaxy S9 Feature Will Let You Create a Virtual Mini-Me

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If you’re thinking of upgrading your phone this year, you better take notes. Samsung just unveiled the specs of the Galaxy S9 and S9+. Amid all the new features, everyone’s curious about how the AR Emoji works.

The AR Emoji is the answer to the iPhone X‘s Animoji. According to CNN Money, the difference between the two is that the S9’s AR Emoji mimics both movements and over 100 facial features. You can even create an avatar that looks just like you and it’s customizable too. It’s like you have your own mini-me!

That said, we already have a few ideas on how we can use this feature for our everyday conversations.

Showing excitement

Since it follows movement, we wonder if it can capture someone jumping up and down when they’re told something exciting. Examples include their favorite food, a surprise gift, and maybe celebrity baby news. If it doesn’t work though, screaming is still an option.

How emotional are you?

Do you want to show someone how much you’ve ugly-cried while watching a movie, but don’t want to show your face? Send them your sad avatar. We’ll be doubly impressed if the phone can detect tears too.

When you’re having an argument with someone

We all understand how hard it is to get your point and feelings across via text and regular emojis. Now you’re able to show that you mean serious business with your avatar and maybe a quick voice recording.

Make a song cover

If people are doing it with Animojis, you might as well try it with an AR Emoji. You can either use your avatar or change it up and sing as a cartoon animal. Because who doesn’t want to be a pink cat singing Britney Spears or Madonna hits?

Just updating everyone

Want to tell everyone that you got a new look? Just customize your AR Emoji however you want depending on your current look. This is also a different way to let close friends know that you changed your appearance a bit.

The Samsung Galaxy S9 and S9+ will be available on March 16 and it comes in three colors: Midnight Blue, Coral Blue, and Lilac Purple. But you can pre-order starting Feb. 27 until March 6.

 

Art by Lara Intong

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Why Instagram Removed GIFs: Racism

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When I was about to post an Instagram Story yesterday, I noticed that the GIF option was unavailable. It was replaced by the selfie option that allows you to put a floating face on your posts. Though it was still in my Recent tab, I wasn’t able to search for GIFs.

See? It’s blank!

At first I thought, “What’s going on? Is my phone broken?” But apparently, Instagram temporarily removed GIPHY because of a GIF containing a racial slur. Yikes!

The online platform acted swiftly after users reacted to a GIF that shows a crime death counter and the N-word. Snapchat also had this GIF, which prompted them to disable GIPHY as well.

Screengrabbed by TechCrunch

“This type of content has no place on Instagram. We have stopped our integration with GIPHY as they investigate the issue,” Instagram told TechCrunch.

Following this, GIPHY also issued a statement saying that they’ve removed the offensive sticker and “re-moderated all of the GIF stickers in our library.” They added that the racist GIF was a result due to a moderation filter bug. There’s no news yet on when Instagram will bring back the feature to their app.

While GIPHY removes any inappropriate GIFs, it doesn’t allow users to flag them on their website. If they did, something like this shouldn’t have slipped through their watch. How many racist GIFs are really out there that haven’t been removed from their servers? Why do they have to ruin everything?

[TechCrunch]

 

Photo courtesy of Smartphones

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This or That: IG Stories Templates Are the New Social Media Trend

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Ah, sometimes social media comes up with something good. As addicting as Instagram Stories already is, users have found another way to make it more interesting. Enter Instagram Stories templates. I started seeing these posts a few weeks ago. The people I follow would post these quick quiz-like photos where they either had to pick between two options or answer questions like their favorite city.

Screengrab from Kasey Rayton’s Instagram account

It’s a fun way to pass the time and your followers get to know more about you, like which food you like better.

Or your moods as explained through emojis.

Photo courtesy of Unique Story Templates’ Instagram account

Do you have a travel bucket list? This template is perfect for you.

Photo courtesy of Unique Story Tamplates’ Instagram account

Check out this cute template from Moon Pancake.

Screengrab from Moon Pancake’s Instagram Stories

Go ahead and take screenshots of these templates so you can answer them for yourself and share them with your followers. We also made our own so answer the template below and don’t forget to tag us at @preenonline.

 

Art by Yayie Motos

Template by Faith Endaya

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There’s More to These Beauty Products Than Meets the Eye

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When makeup brands have the basics down, they get creative and come up with more innovative products. What looks like a normal tube of lip gloss might actually have some hidden features to help you apply the product in the dark. To some these might seem like extra touches they don’t really need but they make the products more interesting to use. Some of them even make the products easier to use. So, if you’re looking for fun and creative beauty products, check out the list below.

BeYu Lip Lights Lip Gloss

Have you ever tried to apply lip gloss in the dark but fail miserably? This lip gloss will be your new nighttime companion. Not only does it have a mirror on the side of the tube but it also has LED lights on the cap. Just click the button to turn it on and swipe away. This also adds a great sheen to your lips without being sticky. Available on Beauty Bar Online.

blendSMART Brush Set

If you’re too lazy to pack on product on your face in the morning, this brush may help you. This set comes with a detachable brush head that rotates, making makeup application easier. You can also get different brush heads for highlighter, powder, and blush. Available online.

Sphynx Portable Razor

If you travel often, you understand the struggle of being in-between waxing sessions. Instead of packing your razor, bring this portable on from Sphynx. This circular case comes with two razors, refillable water bottle, and a moisturizing pre-shave bar. You can also keep this in your bag for emergency touch-ups. Available online.

Lancôme Grandiôse Bendable Liquid Eyeliner

If you struggle to get your eyeliner at the perfect liner, this innovative products from Lancôme can act as your crutch. It has a 35-degree bendable wand that will help make a more precise line across your lash line. The formula itself glides on smoothly and dries smudge-proof. Available at Rustan’s the Beauty Source.

Hourglass The Curator Lash Instrument

All makeup brands try to come up with the best mascara wand that separates and lengthens lashes. Hourglass, however, probably designed the most interesting one. Their Curator Lash Instrument is made of stainless steel and has grooves etched in. It promises to evenly coat each lash from base to tip. Available online.

 

Art by Yayie Motos

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