Logitech PowerShell Controller + Battery Transforms Mobile Gaming

New Controller Turns Compatible Devices into Mobile Gaming Consoles; Roughly Doubles Battery Life

KUALA LUMPUR — Nov 22, 2013 — Logitech, a leading innovator of gaming peripherals, today introduced the Logitech PowerShell Controller + Battery – providing console-style game controls and increasing game play-time on your iPhone 5s, iPhone 5, or iPod touch (5th generation) running iOS 7.

To use this first-of-its-kind mobile gaming console, you simply insert your compatible iPhone or iPod touch into the controller as you would with a standard case. The analog off-screen controls of the Logitech PowerShell Controller + Battery deliver a gaming experience that’s familiar to console players everywhere, with a D-pad, shoulder triggers and face buttons that allow you to control game play.

As a result, you can use the entire screen for viewing the game, giving you a more immersive mobile gaming experience. And thanks to the controller’s comfortable shape, you can play for longer periods. The portable controller maintains a profile that fits easily in your pocket or small bag – putting intensive, complex games within your reach wherever you are.

“We designed this controller to deliver a true console-gaming experience on an iOS 7 mobile device,” said Prasenjit Sarkar, Regional Director for Southeast Asia at Logitech. “With gaming so pervasive on the mobile platform – our research shows that 87% of iPhone and iPod touch users play games on their device – it’s time to revolutionize the experience.”

With your iPhone or iPod touch in the controller, you’ll maintain full access to power on/off, volume, camera, speakers, headphone jack and charging. And your controller’s 1500 mAh battery increases the battery capacity of your iPhone 5s, iPhone 5 or fifth-generation iPod touch. Plus, you can recharge both batteries without removing the phone from the controller.

The controller is compatible with the iOS 7 game controller framework for which a long and rapidly growing list of popular games are supported, including Bastion, Fast & Furious 6: The Game, MetalStorm Aces, Galaxy On Fire 2™ HD and Nitro™ among others available from the App Store.  

Pricing and Availability
The Logitech PowerShell Controller + Battery is expected to be available in Malaysia by end of January 2014 for a suggested retail price of RM399. For more information please visit www.logitech.com/my or www.facebook.com/LogitechMalaysia

Ovum comment: Nokia Lumia 1020 sets new smartphone benchmark but pricing will be key

Nokia’s latest Lumia 1020 finally marries Microsoft’s Windows Phone 8 software with the 41MP over-sampling camera technology the company previously marketed in the Symbian PureView 808.

Tony Cripps, Principal device analyst at Ovum believes “The combination sets a new benchmark for high-end smartphone engineering – and a timely reminder of Nokia’s R&D capabilities – but the company must still overcome incumbent rivals, slow adoption of Windows Phone and a modest marketing budget if it is to finally help the company turn a financial corner after its recent time in the doldrums.”

Cripps continues:

 “At a time when macro-level innovation has seemed to be lacking in smartphones – due to the homogeneity of smartphone operating systems and the drive to appeal to the mass market – Nokia’s Lumia 1020 demonstrates that there is still considerable scope to drive forward the user experience in core smartphone capabilities. This is evidenced not only in the Lumia 1020’s imaging prowess but also in its audio abilities, the company’s Rich Recording technology similarly transforms the Lumia 1020’s audio recording.

“Both imaging and audio are key areas of investment for Nokia and crucial to its long-term strategy of rebuilding market differentiation. This is true not only at the high end, where the Lumia 1020 will be something of a beacon, but also further down the range as the fruits of Nokia’s labours begin to trickle down through the midrange towards the value end of the smartphone spectrum.

The previous PureView 808 gave a tantalizing view of what was possible in terms of phone imaging but felt squandered in the context of its geriatric operating system and aesthetically compromised by a cumbersome – if impressive – camera module.

“The Lumia 1020 addresses both issues. While the new camera module contributes to a device that is noticeably thicker than the existing flagship, the Lumia 925, it is small enough to avoid the chunky and top-heavy design of its PureView 808 forebear. The PureView user experience is similarly upgraded through its integration with Microsoft’s elegant Windows Phone 8 platform, which itself benefits from a flagship device featuring category-leading imaging technology.

Supermodel must show its class not become a cheap date

“Nonetheless, while the Lumia 1020 looks to be the new belle at the smartphone ball, its debut will not necessarily attract a mass of suitors. Most obviously, the device will be expensive. Pricing has yet to be revealed but engineering of the kind on offer in the Lumia 1020 does not come cheap. Aggressive operator subsidies would no doubt help in that regard, but might detract from the device’s premium engineering and user experience.

“Furthermore, Nokia, and Windows Phone more generally, still suffers from a lack of consumer awareness and marketing dollars compared with their key rivals, Apple and Samsung-plus-Android. While this situation is undoubtedly improving, these factors continue to put off many prospective consumers due a greater chance of favorite applications being unavailable.

As such, when lined up against rival devices such as Apple’s iPhone 5 and Samsung’s Galaxy S4, which now effectively sell themselves, the case for selecting the Lumia 1020 is less clear cut.

Nokia may still have work to do to convince prospective buyers to sacrifice favourite apps for superior imaging. But for those who are less concerned about specific third-party apps or in need of something different, the Lumia 1020’s pictures provide a thousand reasons to look again to Espoo.”

DiGi launches iPhone 5

"This is one of the most anticipated product launches in Malaysia, and DiGi is happy to be part of this adventure, delivering on our promise to provide the best deals in town for discerning Malaysians who have embraced a mobile Internet lifestyle," said Praveen Rajan, Head of Products – Internet & Services for DiGi.

One of the many first customers to collect the iPhone 5: Alicia Kho Yin Yin  許瑩瑩(22) ,University Student, Started to queue since 7pm.


iDiGi plans from DiGi
• iPhone 5 from DiGi will be offered in Malaysia beginning Friday, 14 December 2012
• DiGi started taking pre-orders with full pricing unveiled via DiGi Store Online (http://shop.digi.com.my) since 7 December 2012
• Hassle-free retail experience, both online and in DiGi retail outlets
o No queues with faster registration process
o 3-day home delivery for online orders
• Available in over 50 DiGi Stores & DiGi Store Express NATIONWIDE from 14 December onwards
• Midnight Sale starts at 12.01 am on 14 December 2012 in 6 DiGi Stores nationwide
o SoHoKL (DiGi 360°), Kuala Lumpur
o Pulau Tikus, Penang Island
o De Garden, Ipoh
o Plaza Merdeka, Melaka
o Api-Api, Kota Kinabalu
o the Spring Mall, Kuching

• iPhone 5 with prepaid plans available via retail partners, Courts Mammoth & SenHeng Electrical nationwide starting 14 December
• Advantages for signing up with DiGi
o Affordable - Low commitment fee that starts at RM60 per month
o Savings – FREE calls, SMS, MMS to supplementary lines
o Flexibility – 0% EPP for 24 months
o Covered – 1 to 1 warranty replacement
o No bill shock – No extra charge after monthly quota
o Extra benefits – Unlimited Music Downloads with 30 days’ FREE trial & Unlimited Internet Roaming from RM32 per day

MAXIS OFFERS THE iPHONE 5 WITH THE MOST AFFORDABLE PLANS AND THE BEST NETWORK EXPERIENCE

• The most compelling iValue plans with more talk time, texts and data all with the same monthly fee
• Maxis customers will benefit from the best network experience with the country’s fastest and widest 2G and 3G network, and soon to be launched 4G LTE 
• Maxis customers will enjoy more value-added features such Visual Voicemail, Traffic app and 10GB Loker cloud storage 
• Maxis One Club (MOC) members get a further discount on the iPhone 5 for iValue 2 and above

Kuala Lumpur, 14 December 2012. Maxis Berhad (Maxis), Malaysia’s leading integrated communications service provider, is pleased to bring to its customers the much-awaited iPhone 5 at a special launch event held at Cap Square, Kuala Lumpur on 13 December 2012. With the iPhone 5, Maxis customers will be able to connect to its fastest and widest 2G and 3G network as well as the soon-to-be-launched 4G LTE network. The iPhone 5 will be available starting Friday, 14 December 2012, at all Maxis Centres and Maxis Exclusive Partners (MEPs) nationwide.

Suren J Amarasekera, Joint Chief Operating Officer of Maxis, said, “Maxis was the first to bring the iPhone to Malaysia three years ago, and we are proud to once again bring the iPhone 5, which clearly underlines our continued leadership in partnering with Apple in bringing the famed device with plans of compelling value to our customers. This particular launch is also different from our previous iPhone launches, as we are integrating Passbook™ into today’s event! This innovative feature has been used for added convenience and to facilitate our pre-booking and event administration.”

(From left) Fitri Abdullah, Head of Maxis Business Services, Suren J Amarasekera, Maxis’ Joint Chief Operating Officer and T. Kugan, Maxis’ Head of Product, Device, Innovation & Roaming, at Maxis’ iPhone 5 launch event held at CapSquare last night.

The thinnest and lightest iPhone ever, the iPhone 5 has been completely redesigned to feature a stunning new 4-inch Retina display; an Apple-designed A6 chip for blazing fast performance; with an enhanced battery life. The device comes with iOS 6, the world’s most advanced mobile operating system with over 200 new features including: Shared Photo Streams, Facebook integration, all-new Maps app and Passbook organisation.

“The latest iPhone 5 seamlessly delivers on all fronts with even more features. Not only are we offering our attractive and revamped iValue plans with compelling value and flexibility for our customers, but also our exclusive Maxis apps such as Maxis Traffic, Loker with 10GB of cloud storage, and for the first time, Visual Voicemail, a new feature which allows our customers to manage their voicemails via an easy-to-use visual interface,” added Suren.

A Maxis customer signing up for the much-anticipated new iPhone 5 at Maxis’ launch event held at CapSquare last night.

For the iPhone 5, Maxis’ iValue plans have been fortified further to include increased data quota as well as more talk time and texts, all with the same monthly fees. Starting from just RM50 per month, the iValue plans give customers the lowest and most affordable deals in town as well as a 0% interest instalment plan. Existing customers will also be able to easily upgrade to new plans and obtain contract extensions on their current plans, making it convenient for them to own the device without having to sign up for new contracts.

In addition, Maxis will also be giving a special offer for its Maxis One Club (MOC) members with an additional discount off their iPhone 5 if they opt for an iValue 2 plan or above. The MOC is an exclusive membership that offers priority customer service, special rewards and affinity programmes. Customers who have been with Maxis (postpaid) for more than a year with a minimum monthly commitment of RM150 and above are automatically upgraded to MOC member status.

“Our fastest and widest network in the country enables us to deliver the best experiences to our customers and remain as the preferred choice for iPhone 5 users. Together with this, the device offers cutting-edge technology and features, and we are certain that customers will appreciate all it has to offer,” concluded Suren.

Maxis iValue customers will enjoy value-added features including:

NEW FEATURES
• Visual Voicemail, an application function that pushes voicemail to the user’s device, enabling them to listen to their messages without having to dial into their voicemail service.
• Maxis Traffic application, which is Maxis’ first full HTML5 WebApp that provides users live video feed of current traffic conditions in specific areas. This service is available to customers for a free trial period of 30 days.
• Free 10GB Loker cloud storage to help store backup contacts, files videos and pictures. This service is free for all Maxis iOS customers.

ENHANCED FEATURES
• Maxis Rewards application which provides Maxis customers special services, privileges, discount vouchers and more. This is Malaysia’s first PassbookTM enabled application, and has been enhanced to include a location-based feature that allows customers to be alerted on rewards and benefits when they are nearby the location.
• Free unlimited music downloads from Maxis OneMusic, Malaysia’s largest localised digital music library. Maxis customers who sign up the iValue plans can download a wide selection of Malay, Chinese and Tamil songs for free, for a period of 2 months.
• Revamped Maxis customer service application, a self-help application for Maxis customers that enables them to manage their account details such as tracking their mobile usage and paying their bills.

Below are the pricing details and rate plans for the iPhone 5:

	iValue Simple	iValue 1	iValue 2	iValue 3	iValue 4
Monthly Fee	RM50	RM100	RM155	RM250	RM375
Local Minutes (same network)	n/a	1000	1000	1000	1000
Local Minutes (any network)	200	333	667	1500	2500
Local SMS (same network)	100	1000	1000	1000	1000
Local MMS (same network)	n/a	20	40	60	80
Local Data	1GB	2GB	4GB	6GB	10GB
iPhone 5 16GB Plans
12 months	2,079	1,699	1,599	1,199	1,099
24 months	n/a	1,399	1,149	499	FREE
iPhone 5 32GB Plans
12 months	2,389	2,049	1,899	1,549	1,399
24 months	n/a	1,699	1,499	799	299
iPhone 5 64GB Plans
12 months	2,699	2,349	2,249	1,849	1,649
24 months	n/a	2,049	1,799	1,149	599

A First Look at Belkin’s iPhone 5 Accessories in Malaysia

100% compatible accessories available ahead of the phone launch

Belkin is set to introduce a collection of brand new accessories that are fully compatible with the thinnest, lightest iPhone ever, iPhone 5 ahead of its much anticipated launch in Malaysia this December 2012. The new range spotlights the first of several new Lightning accessories from Belkin in addition to innovative and trend-inspired cases, armbands and screen protectors.

“As Apple’s preferred partner, we have designed and developed an exciting range of accessories to match the incredible enhancements to the latest iPhone 5 on its form, features and functionality,” said Phillip Trapaga, Belkin Country Manager for ASEAN.

“Delivering on our brand promise in offering People Inspired Products, we have been listening to our customers and partners who are eager for compatible and reliable accessories to protect their iPhone 5 devices, while enhancing the variety of ways they use their phones to keep them on the go without sacrificing personal style.”

First Lightning compatible accessories
The Lightning accessories feature the introduction of Belkin Car Charger for Lightning, which is an updated version of Belkin’s best-selling, slim profile car charger. These accessories are designed and certified to work with Apple’s Lightning connector not only for the latest iPhone 5, but also iPad 4th generation, iPad mini or iPod touch. These latest additions extend Belkin’s power solutions for smartphones to keep iPhone users and their devices charged up and ready to go all the time.

Stylish protection
In addition to the Lightning accessories, Belkin has unveiled an extensive range of new cases and screen protector that not only fits the new form of iPhone 5, but also protects the device and accentuates its aesthetic value.

The Belkin Micra series is made from ultra-thin polycarbonate that provides soft-touch finish and protection from impacts and scratches. Taking style to greater heights, users can also opt for the Belkin Shield series featuring powerful protection in colourful, stylish form-fitting designs. Belkin also offers the slim-fitting Grip collection in wide-ranging designs and colours. Made from flexible, easy-to-grip materials, it provides durable protection from harsh wear and tear.

The functional Sport Armbands makes for a great companion at the gym, keeping the phone in a perfect condition as users enjoy a worry-free workout. Users who prefer the understated elegance can choose the Belkin Leather series, sporting durable, structured outer material and soft microfiber inner lining to keep the iPhone surface free of scratches and scruffs.  

“Ranging from fun and bright to sleek and sporty, our new designs for the iPhone 5 offer stylish solutions for everyone,” added Trapaga. “Striking the right balance between form and function, our new collections allow users to protect their iPhone 5 while retaining the customary practise in styling up their devices.”

Belkin also provides easy-to-install screen products that integrate Belkin’s Tru Clear™ technology for optimal visibility, touch sensitivity and maximum scratch resistance.  There is an option for everyone ranging from the simple clear to the ultimate damage control screen protector.

Preview & Pre-registration
Like Belkin ASEAN Facebook page (www.facebook.com/BelkinASEAN) to preview some of the latest Belkin’s iPhone 5 accessories that will be available in Malaysia. As part of the pre-registration drive for the Belkin Lightning Car Charger, Belkin invites Malaysians to visit the ASEAN Facebook page and use the application within to register their interest in order to be among the first to get their hands on Belkin Lightning Car Charger when it hits the stores towards end of this year. 30 lucky fans who register stand a chance to walk away with a Belkin iPhone 5, iPad mini or iPad 4 case.

Pricing and Availability

Product Range	Recommended Retail Price
Belkin Cases for iPhone 5	Ranges between RM69 to RM149
Belkin Sport Armbands	Ranges between RM89 to RM99
Belkin Screen Protectors	Ranges between RM39 to RM89
Belkin Car Charger for Lightning	RM169

The Belkin Cases, Screen Protectors and Sport Armbands for iPhone 5 are retailing and available immediately upon the launch of iPhone 5 in Machines, MacStudio, Harvey Norman, All IT, ThunderMatch, Challenger, and selected Celcom outlets. 

The Lightning accessories are set to be available in early 2013. 

TomTom updates its navigation app for android & iPhone 5

TomTom updates its navigation app for android

~ New version brings TomTom navigation to even more smartphones ~

Kuala Lumpur, 6 December 2012 – In October 2012, TomTom brought world-class navigation to Android with its smartphone app for drivers. Today, TomTom releases a new update to the app that makes it available to more Android owners. The latest version is optimised for use with the latest and most popular smartphone handsets including the Samsung Galaxy S3, HTC One X and Google Nexus 4.

As well as supporting more than 200 of the newest Android devices, the update brings other improvements. The download manager has been improved and maps are now stored on the phone’s SD card (if available) to save valuable phone memory. The Driving View has also been updated, making the journey information clearer at a glance. In addition, postcode entry is more flexible and the app can find locations from the phone address book more reliably.


New features include:
·        Wider compatibility
TomTom Navigation for Android v1.1 is optimized for use on all smartphones with a screen resolution between 800 x 480 pixels and 1280 x 800 pixels. It will also run on most Android tablets.

·        More reliable content downloads
The download mechanism for maps has been improved. The app will complete a download without interruption, even when the user pushes the app to the background.

·        SD card map storage
The update stores downloaded maps to the device’s SD card by default, freeing up storage space on the smartphone or tablet.

Pricing and Availability:
TomTom Navigation app for Android v1.1 is available now at a special introductory offer from the Google Play store, priced at USD49.99 (RM152.60)¹

1.       Conversion rate of approximately RM3.05 for  USD1 based on XE currency converter

Other features of TomTom Navigation for Android:

·        Fully offline and navigable map. High-resolution maps offer fast offline rendering and routing, avoiding high data roaming charges when used abroad.
·        FREE Lifetime maps. Users will always have the latest map to ensure they get to their destination on time. Users will receive four free map updates per year for the life of the app.
·        IQ Routes. The fastest routes, the most accurate and reliable arrival times at all times of day.
·        Seamless integration. Integrates easily with Android smartphone contacts.
·        Advanced Lane Guidance. Provides extra clarity when navigating difficult junctions. Helps drivers merge, exit and change lanes with confidence.



TomTom releases new version of its Navigation app for iPhone 

Malaysia, 6 December 2012 – TomTom has released a new update of its navigation app for iPhone. The latest update is designed to take full advantage of the larger screen on the iPhone 5.

Optimised to run in full-screen mode, the update enables iPhone 5 users to see more of the map when driving with the new larger screen. Menu and search screens have been enhanced, so drivers can see more options and search results.

TomTom’s navigation app for iPhone and iPad is fully functional with or without signal. Offline maps mean that drivers will stay connected to accurate, reliable and up-to-date navigation wherever they go. And, unlike other navigation apps, they won’t incur costly roaming charges when navigating abroad.

To see all the changes to this new version, customers should visit the iPhone App Store at www.tomtom.com/tomtom-app

Pricing and availability

For customers in Malaysia, the TomTom South East Asia app can be purchased for USD49.99 (approximately RM153.00)¹ at the Apple App Store.

Make Merry this Holiday Season with Seagate’s “Holidays Happen” Online Sweepstakes

Win a holiday to the Maldives with the purchase of any Seagate storage product

MALAYSIA, 22 November 2012 – As part of its holiday promotion, Seagate Technology is offering consumers in Malaysia the opportunity to win RM100,000 worth of prizes in a lucky draw with the purchase of any Seagate storage product.

Consumers simply have to make a purchase at Seagate authorized resellers between 1 November and 31 December 2012, and complete the Holiday Happens Online sweepstakes form available at www.promoseagate.com  to be eligible to enter. While customers will be entitled to one lucky draw chance with each purchase of a Seagate storage drive, opportunities to win increases with the purchase of hard drives with higher capacities.

Three lucky first-prize winners will walk away with a 3-Night holiday to the Maldives for two persons. Other attractive prizes include the Seagate Backup Plus portable drive, Seagate Satellite mobile wireless storage, Apple iPhone 5 and iPad 3.

Consumers may purchase Seagate products from authorized resellers in Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia and Thailand to enter the draw. The results of the Holidays Happen Grand Draw will be announced on www.promoseagate.com on 8 January 2013.

For more information and the terms and conditions, please visit www.promoseagate.com.

Cooler Master launched iPhone 5 Aluminum Bumper

Cooler Master, an award winning designer and manufacturer of thermal and protective solutions for computers and mobile devices today introduces the Aluminum Bumper iPhone 5 cover.

A Fine Phone Requires A Fine Cover
The iPhone 5 has all the caliber of a finely crafted watch. This device requires a cover that's just as sophisticated. Enter the Aluminum bumper.

Light and Durable Aircraft Grade Aluminum
What makes the Aluminum bumper unique is the material it's been made with. Starting with aircraft grade aluminum, we machine, polish, and texture the surfaces of the bumper. This gives the Aluminum Bumper a near mirror finish.

Aircraft grade aluminum is light and tough. The aluminum bumper will shield your iPhone 5 from dents, chips and scuffs. 

Highly Precise Manufacturing Process Let's Your iPhone Reach Full Strength
A crystalline diamond is used to make precise cut outs in the bumper. This gives you full access to all your iPhone 5's buttons and clears the way for the antenna to transmit it's full strength. This sophisticated manufacturing process extends to how the pieces fit together. The bumper has a seamless slide-n-lock design that makes taking it on or off easy.

In addition, Cooler Master also launched line of versatile Mac accessories, the Aluminum series of JAS PRO, L-Stand, CLUTCH and the stand of ROC.

Price and availability will vary based on region. Please consult your local Cooler Master Representative for more information.

Free Nano SIMs with any DG Smart Plan or DG Postpaid Plus Plan

Available in almost 250 DiGi outlets by early October 2012

SHAH ALAM, 24 September 2012 – DiGi Telecommunications Sdn Bhd (“DiGi”) is offering free Nano SIMs when customers sign up for any DG Smart Plan™ or DG Postpaid™ Plus, starting Wednesday, 26 September 2012.

Existing postpaid customers only need to pay RM20 for swapping their existing SIM to the Nano SIM. Customers can swap for new Nano SIMs or sign up for the respective plans above at selected DiGi outlets in the Klang Valley from 26 September. The Nano SIMs will be available in almost 250 DiGi outlets nationwide by early October 2012.

How the size of SIM cards has evolved over the years…DiGi starts offering FREE Nano SIMs on Wednesday, 26 September 2012, when customers sign up for DG Smart Plan™ or DG Postpaid™ Plus.

The size of SIM or Subscriber Identification Module has evolved over the years as the size and design of mobile devices changed. The first SIM card introduced was in the same size as a credit card. It was further reduced with the same thickness to a Mini SIM. It eventually evolved to the next version called the Micro SIM with dimensions of 15 mm x 12 mm. The Nano SIM was subsequently introduced in early 2012 with dimensions of 12.3 mm x 8.8 mm x 0.7 mm, which is 15% thinner than its predecessor. The Nano SIMs can be inserted into adaptors for use with devices that utilise Mini SIMs or Micro SIMs.

The full list of participating DiGi outlets nationwide will be published tomorrow (25 September) on www.digi.com.my/nanosim

Maxis Berhad is the first in Malaysia to introduce the new Nano SIM for iPhone5

Statement by Maxis Berhad

T Kugan, Head of Product, Device, Innovation and Roaming, Maxis Berhad.


Maxis Berhad is the first in Malaysia to introduce the new Nano SIM for iPhone5. Maxis customers who already have an iPhone 5 and those who plan to purchase the device in the future can get the Nano SIM for RM25 beginning 24 September at selected Maxis Centres in the Klang Valley specifically KLCC, Taman Tun Dr. Ismail, Sunway Pyramid and The Gardens as well as in Queensbay Mall in Penang and Danga Bay in Johor Bahru. It will be made available at other Maxis Centres nationwide by late September.

The Nano SIM design is 30% smaller and 15% thinner than the existing Micro SIM. It measures at 12.3 x 8.8 mm in size and 0.7 mm in thickness and offers device manufacturers the crucial advantage of freeing up extra space for other mobile phone components such as additional memory or larger batteries. The much smaller Nano SIM continues to use the same smart card chips as existing SIM cards, and will offer the same functionality as all current SIM cards and is backwards compatible with existing SIM card designs.

For more information on the Nano SIM from Maxis, please visit www.maxis.com.my or call 1800 82 1123.