Friday, January 20, 2017

Acer Launches Performance-Oriented Aspire VX 15, V Nitro and GX Series


Press release:
Acer today unveiled three new Aspire series devices, including two new high-performance notebooks and a desktop PC, all designed with entertainment and performance in mind while featuring Windows 10.
Packed with premium audio technologies, crystal clear displays with IPS technology[i] and the latest NVIDIA® GeForce® GTX 10-Series graphics and high-performance 7th Generation Intel® Core processors, the Aspire V Nitro Black Edition models (V Nitro 17 and V Nitro 15) and Aspire VX notebooks are ideal for people who like their videos crisp, games smooth and audio clear. Likewise, Aspire GX series desktop PCs are also ideal for users who are passionate about entertainment, but appreciate expanded capabilities that their mobile cousins don't offer.     




[i] All brands and product names mentioned herein include trademarks of their respective companies and are used solely to describe or identify the products

Aspire V Nitro Black Edition & Aspire VX
Both notebook series come with up to a 7th Generation Intel Core i7-7700HQ processor that is designed to bring incredible performance and responsiveness, immersive 4K entertainment and longer battery life to mobile devices. The chipset is the perfect match for the notebooks’ equally impressive GPUs, the latest NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1060 or 1050 Ti graphics1. Whether a movie buff or a gamer, users will be able to fully enjoy the latest releases and titles without compromise.
The Aspire V 17 Nitro Black Edition featuring a 17.3-inch display is available with optional integrated Tobii eye-tracking hardware that when combined with touchpad gestures, enhances productivity and makes the device more responsive through the use of eye movements. Users are able to more quickly and conveniently navigate across apps and programs with a simple glance. Gaming is also enhanced with eye tracking, creating deeper immersion and allowing gamers to aim, shoot and explore freely using their eyes in over 45 titles like Elite Dangerous, Deus Ex: Mankind Divided and WATCH_DOGS 2.

Friday, January 6, 2017

Rugged Acer Chromebook 11 N7 (C731) is a Smart Solution for Classrooms

Acer Chromebook

Press release:

Acer today announced the availability of its newest Chromebook for education customers, the Acer Chromebook 11 N7 (C731) with enhanced durability features. In addition, it provides long battery life and a fan-less design, making it an exceptional choice for schools and school districts that want a reliable, powerful and quiet device for student learning.
Chromebooks have become the de facto standard for education technology in many districts around the country,” said Chris Chiang, Vice President of Product Management at Acer America. “The new Acer Chromebook 11 N7 (C731) will set the bar even higher for what schools utilize for their classrooms and labs – a durable design, quiet fan-less operation and a portable form factor that makes them easy to transport for 1:1 programs, around the classroom, outside and in the lab.”
According to data from Gartner, Acer Group is the world’s leading Chromebook brand with over 33 percent market share in 2015[i].


[i] Gartner “Market Share: Devices, All Countries, 4Q15 Update” 16 February 2016

Acer Chromebook

Durable Design Features Enhance Real-Time Learning    
The durability and design features of the Chromebook 11 N7 (C731) ensure maximum uptime and contribute to reduced IT maintenance. The device endured rigorous testing to meet the demanding U.S. MIL-STD 810G military standard[i]. This military specification testing validates the ruggedness, durability and quality of the Chromebook 11 N7 (C731), so that student learning can take place in a variety of environments.
The Acer Chromebook 11 N7 (C731) can handle up to 132 pounds (60kg) of downward force on the top cover, while the reinforced case and hinges result in greater resistance to twisting and stress, even if students cram them into their backpacks. In addition, the corner-shield structure and rubber bumper keyboard surround further protect the Chromebook, so it can tolerate drops from heights up to 48 inches (122cm). These features ensure the Chromebook will be protected whether it takes a tumble while being transported or is accidentally knocked off a desk. The anti-slip pattern on the rear case makes it easy to grip and helps prevent it from slipping out of students’ hands.
The Acer Chromebook 11 N7 (C731) has a spill-resistant keyboard that provides protection against spills of up to 11 fluid ounces (330ml) of water. The unique gutter system under the keyboard and touchpad drains water so that it’s routed away from internal components and out the bottom of the chassis.
A new feature to the Chromebook 11 N7 (C731) is the keyboard design with recessed keys that prevent the key caps from being easily removed by students. In addition, the keyboard was designed for an excellent typing experience for students, many of whom are still learning keyboarding skills.
The Acer Chromebook 11 N7 (C731) has a fan-less design that provides cool and quiet operation, so it doesn’t add noise, even to a whole classroom of students. Also, reliability is boosted since it doesn’t require venting that may cause airflow issues and dust accumulation.

Tuesday, December 6, 2016

Acer Lowers Digital Classroom Entry Barrier with Homegrown Management Service


Press release:
Schools in remote areas have typically struggled with managing classroom devices with little or no dedicated IT staff. To help bring down the digital divide, Acer Taiwan has worked with local system integrators to deploy Android Tablets to five remotely-located schools across the island through the Acer DADA (Device Agent & Deployment Assistant) management service.
The DADA system allows for provisioning based on device serial number, and automatically pushes predefined apps to batches of Acer tablets. In the case that students have accidentally deleted learning software or if the devices is infected with malware, a factory reset will restore the system and reload designated apps, streamlining the management process and dramatically lowering the entry barrier for schools with limited resources to deploy digital classrooms.

Monday, December 5, 2016

Transportify Gears Up for the Holiday Rush

Press release: 

We all know too well that the holiday season can be problematic amid higher demand for consumer products and the capability to distribute them on time.




Through the years we have seen time and time again how the horrendous traffic in Metro Manila compounds this problem. For many of holiday gift-givers and the would-be Santas, making their loved ones wait is simply not acceptable.

Fortunately, this can be addressed by a few logistics providers that can help move things around the metro.

Transportify now gives the market a cheaper and more efficient alternative for their on-demand logistics needs.  

A mobile and web application that connects customers with qualified independent contractors (driver partners), Transportify is the ideal logistics solution for delivering anything within Metro Manila and even surrounding areas. With a pool of over 1,500 driver-partners in less than 5 months of operations in the Philippines, Transportify has the network and capacity to address on-demand logistics not only during holidays but all year round.

For MPVs, customers only need to shell out P250 for the first 3 kilometers and P20 for every km thereafter. Need a bigger vehicle? No problem, they also have L300s that start at P600 for the first 3kms and P30 for every km thereafter.

Noel Abelardo, Head of Business Program, said: “We want to help move things faster and more efficiently in Metro Manila this holiday season. Transportify will help business customers and even individuals manage their logistics needs so they can focus on things that really matter to them. Our value proposition for on-demand logistics needs is better than what is available in the market."

With Transportify, delivery needs for holiday is no longer worrisome. Yes, even with the phenomenal Metro Manila traffic. Transportify will cater to the special needs of its customers efficiently and on time.

For a worry-free logistics solution, either for your corporate giveaways, event and promotional materials, office raffle prices from huge appliances to small tokens for your employees, or just simply gifts for your loved ones, download the Transportify app on Apple Store for iOS devices, and on Google Play Store for Android devices. Book now for your immediate and scheduled delivery needs.


Founded by Inspire Ventures and Ardent Capital, Deliveree (known in the Philippines as Transportify) is a mobile and web app that allows you to book and manage pickups and deliveries of almost anything in select metro areas across Southeast Asia. Its marketplace connects businesses and individuals with qualified drivers and their vehicles to provide affordable and trustworthy service according to the company’s strict quality standards. Presently they are serving the Bangkok, Jakarta, and Manila markets with more locations coming soon.



Friday, November 18, 2016

Transportify is now in the Manila!



Transportify is now in Manila! Transportify is an on-demand logistics application available in mobile and web app. Both individuals and businesses may benefit from this logistics solution. Definitely reliable and cost efficient!

The main objective of Transportify is to help small to medium enterprises (SMEs) to lower logistics cost. With this, Transportify offers affordable rates wherein the customer only pays for what they need.


Known as Deliveree in Thailand and Indonesia, Transportify was launched in the Philippine market last July. It now has 45 people manning its Manila office. So far, it has more than 2,000 registered accounts in just a few weeks. With barely three months’ worth of operations in the country, Transportify already has a pool of 850 driver-partners in Metro Manila. Over time, it hopes to expand its fleet for ground logistics. At present, its fleet includes Sedans, Hatchbacks, MPVs for Economy, MPVs for Large Load and L300s but this will be expanded in the coming months to include more vehicle options such as motorcycles, pickup trucks, and closed vans. 


Helping small and medium enterprises (SMEs) lower their operating costs in the area of logistics is Transportify’s main objective. As a value proposition, Transportify customers need only pay for the distance covered by the delivery and extra services required.

Transportify has 900 driver-partners and growing. For Economy, the rate starts at P220 for the first 3 kilometers and P20 for every kilometer thereafter. For Large Load, the rate starts P270 for the first 3 kilometers and P20 for every km thereafter. Meanwhile, L300s rate starts at P600 for the first 3kms and P30 for every km thereafter. Plus, this is the only app that offers Extra Services such as Special Help by Driver and Extra Helpers.



Unlike traditional couriers, Transportify’s mobile and web app lets you book a driver for same-day delivery requirements. It also accepts pre-scheduled bookings up to two weeks in advance. It also has a live tracking feature so customers can pinpoint the precise location of their driver and the estimated time of arrival at any stage during the delivery.
The company, just like other transportation apps present in the market today does not own vehicles or physical assets, but an app that connects customers to drivers. It charges drivers a commission of 15% only.
“Since we don’t have to spend for maintenance of these vehicles and salaries of the drivers, we have relatively lower overhead costs. This allows us to provide our customers a service that is cost-efficient and competitive compared to what is already available in the market,” said Kim.
Transportify Philippines is powered by Deliveree which was founded in 2014 by Inspire Ventures and Ardent Capital – both well-established venture builders in Southeast Asia. Backed with $2-million seed funding and from its principal shareholders, Transportify continues to expand the business by continuously providing lower logistics costs to SMEs and significantly growing its area of service coverage in its current markets.



Wednesday, November 9, 2016

Herbalife Nutrition At Work Survey Reveals Filipino Millennials Desire Healthy, Active Workplace Environment

Herbalife Nutrition, a global nutrition company, has released the findings from its Asia Pacific Millennials At Work Survey1, which revealed that Filipino millennials are adapting a healthy, active lifestyle, however, most believe their current workplace environment prevents them from doing so.

Millennials, or people born in between 1980 and 2000, are opting for a workplace that will encourage them to stay active, if only this will be embedded in every company culture.  About 83 percent or eight (8) in 10 millennials have agreed that they would like their company workplace to adopt a healthy, active lifestyle. 

 With the millennial generation expected to make up 50 percent of the global workforce by 2020, ensuring the wellbeing of millennials will be important to improving workplace productivity. “There are about 35 million millennials now in the Philippines, which is about one-third of the country’s entire population. Five years from now, millennials will be dominating the labor force. While most millennials want to lead healthy lives, they face real obstacles at work in doing so,” said Rosalio Valenzuela, Herbalife Philippines General Manager. 

“At Herbalife Nutrition, we provide our employees with nutrition products at work, subsidize gym memberships, hold regular wellness programs related to nutrition and well-being, and encourage participation in outdoor activities and sports competitions.”

Herbalife Philippines General Manager Mr. Bong Valenzuela with Herbalife Nutrition Advisory Board Member Julián Alvarez García, M.D., Ph.D.


Additionally, the survey findings revealed the following:
·         Seven (7) out of 10 millennials strive to live healthy, active lives
·         However, the majority of millennials find it challenging to maintain an active lifestyle at work – eight (8) out of 10 millennials spend 6 to 13 hours at their work desk each day, and 64% of millennials get less than 30 minutes of physical activity - including standing, stretching and walking at work on an average work day.
·         Additionally, 64% of millennials cited the “lack of time” as the key obstacle to engaging in physical activity at work.

To provide tips on how millennials and their employers can integrate positive nutrition and life style habits at their workplaces, Herbalife Nutrition has organized a sixth Asia Pacific Wellness Tour, which builds upon the successes of the past five tours that welcomed over 100, 000  participants. Five experts from the Herbalife Nutrition Advisory Board (NAB) are scheduled to tour 21 Asian cities from October 7 to 30, to hold a series of talks, workshops and medical symposia across the region. 


Julián Alvarez García, M.D., Ph.D., member of the Herbalife Nutrition Advisory Board
giving a talk during the Manila leg of the 5th Asia Pacific Wellness Tour.


“Through these efforts, we hope to equip organizations and employees with the right tools to collectively build a healthier work environment across Asia Pacific,” said Valenzuela.
 
Julian Alvarez Garcia, M.D., Ph.D., a member of the Herbalife Nutrition Advisory Board, will be visiting Manila for the Asia Pacific Wellness Tour this October. Julian Alvarez Garcia, M.D., Ph.D. will also be sharing expert advice on how millennials can adopt simple positive nutrition and lifestyle habits at work to improve their overall well-being in the long run.

Some of the tips to help foster a healthier millennial workforce include:

·         Nutrition

o   Dedicate a healthy eating day each week and get colleagues involved in making healthy choices for lunch on this day.
o   Boost water intake to help the body digest food, rid the body of toxins, and help deliver nutrients to the cells. Drink at least eight (8) glasses or two (2) liters of water a day.
o   Have a protein shake combined with non-fat milk and healthy fruit for breakfast. With 20-30 grams of protein and low-fat contents, it can provide the body with all the nutrition it needs to power through the day.


·         Active Living

o   Create a playlist that incorporates upbeat music and play with hourly intervals.
o   Use Running Apps to keep energized and on-pace during regular runs.
o   Set a goal to join running competitions to motivate self to sustain an active lifestyle.



1Herbalife’s Millennials At Work Survey was conducted in 2016, with 5,500 respondents aged 18 and above, from Australia, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand and Vietnam. 

Thursday, October 27, 2016

Acer’s Ultra-Thin-And-Light Notebooks Awarded Japanese Good Design Awards



Press release:

Acer announces that its latest ultra-thin-and-light notebooks have been honored at the 2016 edition of Japan’s Good Design Award, including both the Acer Swift 7, which is the world’s first[1] notebook to measure less than 1 cm thin, and the convertible Acer Spin 7, weighing just 1.2 kg. The abTouchPhone, a touchscreen multimedia IP desk phone, was also awarded for its full range of practical communication features, and also for its simple yet elegantly designed appearance.
Acer’s winning products stood out from over 4,000 entries, and were selected over a rigorous five-month screening process involving 76 international jury members. Screenings were held not only in Japan but also in South Korea, Taiwan, and Hong Kong.
Jury’s Evaluation of the Acer Swift 7
“The thinness and functionality of a laptop PC conflict with its operability, but the Acer Swift 7 strikes an appropriate balance between the two elements. The streamlined shape of the PC, which is less than 1 cm thick, makes it look visually thinner than it actually is, and the product generally has a robust yet elaborate image due to its use of cut and molded aluminum alloy as a material. Furthermore, despite its thickness, it provides a favorable touch button, and the use of a large touch panel achieves both a beautiful design and ease of use.”

Jury’s Evaluation of the Acer Spin 7
“Consumers have growing expectations for convertible laptop PCs as smartphones become more common and these convertible laptop PCs are expected to be used on occasions different from those for ordinary laptop PCs, and unlike the latter, the former also needs to meet various needs in terms of structure. The Acer Spin 7 is light and slim, and under these restricted conditions, it uses a rotary touch panel, meeting user needs in various situations through its 14-inch monitor and fan-less design. The case made from an aluminum alloy adds a sense of high quality to the product while ensuring its sturdiness. The Spin 7 boasts of outstanding performance as a hybrid convertible PC.”