Zyxel Networks, a leader in delivering secure and AI-powered cloud networking solutions, today announced that its USG FLEX 50HP Firewall has won Security Hardware of the Year at the 2025 PC Pro Excellence Awards.
Now in its 28th year, this UK-based program is one of the industry’s most respected, recognizing products that deliver outstanding performance and real-world value through expert review.
Unified Security for Modern Networks The USG FLEX 50HP was recognized for solving a key challenge for SMBs and MSPs: maintaining consistent security across hybrid environments.
Unlike traditional firewalls that manage cloud and on-premises settings separately, the USG FLEX 50HP uses Zyxel Networks’ Nebula cloud platform and Smart Sync to bridge the gap.
With Nebula serving as the centralized management layer, Smart Sync enables synchronized security policies, network objects, and high availability settings across cloud and on-premises environments.
This ensures consistent protection while simplifying day-to-day operations. The USG FLEX 50HP combining comprehensive threat protection with cost-effective deployment, empowering SMBs and MSPs to adopt enterprise-grade security without operational or budget strain.
Global Recognition from Independent Experts This UK honor follows a string of international achievements for Zyxel Networks’ security portfolio. Recently, Zyxel Networkswas rated “Champion” in the Network Firewall and VPN categories in Germany’s Techconsult PUR 2026 survey.
Additionally, the USG FLEX H series demonstrated top-tier performance in independent testing by The Tolly Group in the United States.
“Being named Security Hardware of the Year by PC Pro validates our focus on making security practical for SMBs and MSPs,” said Mr. Gary Chen, SEA Regional Head at Zyxel Networks.
“This recognition reflects our commitment to providing robust, reliable solutions that are easy to manage in an increasingly complex threat landscape.”
Vivien Lin, Chief Product Officer at @BingXOfficial, explains that this transition is driven by regulatory clarity, growing institutional participation, and the adoption of blockchain infrastructure by financial institutions.https://t.co/9g5IW9X1VA
Leading global AI smart devices provider HONOR Philippines kicked off the first day of the year with another explosive launch. The HONOR X9d 5G is now officially set to arrive on January 9.
The ultimate phone durability test has indeed become a tradition—but among the hundreds of videos circulating online, what does a Tesla Cybertruck have to do with #TheToughestPhone, the HONOR X9d 5G?
It has been circulating online that HONOR Philippines is giving away a Tesla Cybertruck during the official pre-order period of its newest smartphone, the HONOR X9d 5G. However, after watching videos from media and influencers, one could say it’s much more than just a prize.
Vivien Lin, Chief Product Officer at @BingXOfficial, explains that this transition is driven by regulatory clarity, growing institutional participation, and the adoption of blockchain infrastructure by financial institutions.https://t.co/9g5IW9X1VA
Based on the videos online, it’s shaping up to be a battle between the toughest phone and the toughest car. The #AllAngleUltraDefense HONOR X9d 5G is set to take on the all-steel Tesla Cybertruck. It’s an intriguing matchup, and HONOR fans are ecstatic to learn more.
Join the conversation and find out soon. Visit HONOR’s website www.hihonor.com, and follow HONOR Philippines on Facebook(Facebook.com/HonorPhilippines), Instagram(Instagram.com/honorph/) and TikTok: (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines) for exclusive teasers, launch updates, and big reveal.
TCL, the Philippines’ No. 1 Panel TV brand and a global leader in TV and air conditioner sales, has made laundry solution smarter, easier, and quicker with the arrival of TCL Super Drum C682.
It’s a sophisticated laundry solution designed to maximize cleaning efficiency while prioritizing fabric care and user convenience. By integrating innovative technology and intelligent design, the TCL Super Drum C682 sets a new standard for modern home appliances.
Built on the core philosophy of smart clean and supreme care, this washing machine transcends ordinary cleaning.
It seamlessly combines a bigger drum, advanced stain removal, and intelligent features that perfectly adapt to your family’s needs, delivering everything from efficiency and convenience to superior fabric-friendly care.
“The TCL Super Drum C682 truly is a game-changer. By injecting genuine intelligence into laundry technology, we are setting a new industry benchmark. This machine is engineered to surpass all expectations, guaranteeing superior cleaning performance and the most economical use of water and energy available,” says Eric Li, Senior Product Manager of Washing Machine and Refrigerator, TCL Philippines.
Here are the five key features that solidify the TCL Super Drum C682 as a game-changer in laundry technology.
1. The Ultra-Large 540mm Super Drum
The defining feature of the C682 is its massive drum diameter. At 540mm drum, the Super Drum is significantly larger than standard washing machine drums.
With more room for clothes to drop naturally, this ultra-large size reduces friction and tangling for improved fabric care. It ensures garments are handled gently, protecting them from damage and wear, especially delicate or bulky items.
This feature also gives superior washing performance that allows water and detergent to penetrate deep into fabrics more effectively, leading to a deeper, more thorough, and more hygienic clean for every load.
Lastly, it is very ideal for large households with its increased volume that easily accommodates bulky items like comforters, blankets, and large loads of family laundry, reducing the number of cycles required.
2. DD Inverter Motor Technology (Direct Drive)
The C682 utilizes a Direct Drive (DD) Inverter Motor, eliminating the traditional belt mechanism found in conventional machines.
This technological advancement translates directly into enhanced performance and longevity for exceptional durability and reliability with fewer moving parts, the risk of component wear and tear is dramatically reduced, leading to a longer lifespan for the machine.
Furthermore, the direct drive mechanism significantly minimizes vibration and noise, making the C682 one of the quietest washers in its class—perfect for homes where laundry is done near living spaces or bedrooms.
It also optimizes energy efficiency with its precise control offered by the inverter technology that controls the power consumption for the load size and wash cycle selected, leading to substantial savings on electricity bills.
3. Smart Control and Auto Dosing
The integration of intelligent functions makes the laundry process effortless, ensuring optimal results every time without guesswork with its automatic dosing system that highlights sensors that automatically calculate the precise amount of detergent and softener required based on the load size and soil level. This prevents wastage, avoids residue buildup on clothes, and guarantees the best possible clean.
TCL Super Drum C682 is also created with smart features that allow users to control and monitor the washing machine remotely via the TCL Home app. You can start, pause, and track cycles, receive alerts, and even download specialized programs, adding a layer of convenience to busy modern schedules.
4. Steam Wash + ActiveFresh Function
In today’s hygiene-conscious world, the ability to sanitize fabrics is essential. The TCL Super Drum C682 addresses this need with its powerful steam wash feature with its deep sanitization giving high-temperature steam penetrates deeply into fabrics, effectively eliminating bacteria, allergens, and dust mites without relying on harsh chemicals.
It also introduces steam to help relax fabric fibers, significantly reducing wrinkles and making the ironing process much easier, or in some cases, unnecessary.
The TCL Super Drum C682 also has ActiveFresh Function that prevents moisture buildup, bad odors keeping the clothes fresh even if you forget to unload immediately.
5. Ocean Wave Pattern
C682’s Drum has the upgraded Ocean-wave pattern design, making it more suitable for ultra-thin, large diameter washing machines. Ensures cleaner washing results while being gentler on clothes.
In essence, the C682’s Ocean-wave Drum speaks of a modern solution that addresses the conflicting demands of modern washing: achieving maximum cleanliness while minimizing wear and tear—all within a space-saving, high-capacity machine design.
TCL Super Drum C682 comes in 2 color variants: white (exclusively sold at all SM Appliance stores) and gray available at all authorized TCL dealers.
TCL, the Philippines’ No. 1 Panel TV brand and a global leader in TV and air conditioner sales, has made laundry solution smarter, easier, and quicker with the arrival of TCL Super Drum C682.
It’s a sophisticated laundry solution designed to maximize cleaning efficiency while prioritizing fabric care and user convenience. By integrating innovative technology and intelligent design, the TCL Super Drum C682 sets a new standard for modern home appliances.
Built on the core philosophy of smart clean and supreme care, this washing machine transcends ordinary cleaning.
It seamlessly combines a bigger drum, advanced stain removal, and intelligent features that perfectly adapt to your family’s needs, delivering everything from efficiency and convenience to superior fabric-friendly care.
“The TCL Super Drum C682 truly is a game-changer. By injecting genuine intelligence into laundry technology, we are setting a new industry benchmark. This machine is engineered to surpass all expectations, guaranteeing superior cleaning performance and the most economical use of water and energy available,” says Eric Li, Senior Product Manager of Washing Machine and Refrigerator, TCL Philippines.
Here are the five key features that solidify the TCL Super Drum C682 as a game-changer in laundry technology.
1. The Ultra-Large 540mm Super Drum
The defining feature of the C682 is its massive drum diameter. At 540mm drum, the Super Drum is significantly larger than standard washing machine drums.
With more room for clothes to drop naturally, this ultra-large size reduces friction and tangling for improved fabric care. It ensures garments are handled gently, protecting them from damage and wear, especially delicate or bulky items.
This feature also gives superior washing performance that allows water and detergent to penetrate deep into fabrics more effectively, leading to a deeper, more thorough, and more hygienic clean for every load.
Lastly, it is very ideal for large households with its increased volume that easily accommodates bulky items like comforters, blankets, and large loads of family laundry, reducing the number of cycles required.
2. DD Inverter Motor Technology (Direct Drive)
The C682 utilizes a Direct Drive (DD) Inverter Motor, eliminating the traditional belt mechanism found in conventional machines.
This technological advancement translates directly into enhanced performance and longevity for exceptional durability and reliability with fewer moving parts, the risk of component wear and tear is dramatically reduced, leading to a longer lifespan for the machine.
Furthermore, the direct drive mechanism significantly minimizes vibration and noise, making the C682 one of the quietest washers in its class—perfect for homes where laundry is done near living spaces or bedrooms.
It also optimizes energy efficiency with its precise control offered by the inverter technology that controls the power consumption for the load size and wash cycle selected, leading to substantial savings on electricity bills.
3. Smart Control and Auto Dosing
The integration of intelligent functions makes the laundry process effortless, ensuring optimal results every time without guesswork with its automatic dosing system that highlights sensors that automatically calculate the precise amount of detergent and softener required based on the load size and soil level. This prevents wastage, avoids residue buildup on clothes, and guarantees the best possible clean.
TCL Super Drum C682 is also created with smart features that allow users to control and monitor the washing machine remotely via the TCL Home app. You can start, pause, and track cycles, receive alerts, and even download specialized programs, adding a layer of convenience to busy modern schedules.
4. Steam Wash + ActiveFresh Function
In today’s hygiene-conscious world, the ability to sanitize fabrics is essential. The TCL Super Drum C682 addresses this need with its powerful steam wash feature with its deep sanitization giving high-temperature steam penetrates deeply into fabrics, effectively eliminating bacteria, allergens, and dust mites without relying on harsh chemicals.
It also introduces steam to help relax fabric fibers, significantly reducing wrinkles and making the ironing process much easier, or in some cases, unnecessary.
The TCL Super Drum C682 also has ActiveFresh Function that prevents moisture buildup, bad odors keeping the clothes fresh even if you forget to unload immediately.
5. Ocean Wave Pattern
C682’s Drum has the upgraded Ocean-wave pattern design, making it more suitable for ultra-thin, large diameter washing machines. Ensures cleaner washing results while being gentler on clothes.
In essence, the C682’s Ocean-wave Drum speaks of a modern solution that addresses the conflicting demands of modern washing: achieving maximum cleanliness while minimizing wear and tear—all within a space-saving, high-capacity machine design.
TCL Super Drum C682 comes in 2 color variants: white (exclusively sold at all SM Appliance stores) and gray available at all authorized TCL dealers.
Started with HONOR X9a 5G in 2023, HONOR has been dropping hits after hit. At this point, the new year’s campaign of the viral phone series has already become a tradition.
“When we launched HONOR X9a 5G, we literally had zero expectations. What we had was hope and confidence in our capabilities, and then it exceeded all expectations. We did not let the success get into our heads; we just thought it was beginner’s luck. So we leveled up with HONOR X9b 5G, and again it became a massive hit. Then HONOR X9c 5G came and it was our biggest feat yet, outdoing everything we’ve done in 2023 and 2024,” said HONOR Philippines Vice President Stephen Cheng.
The HONOR X9 series has been synonymous with exceptional durability, raising the bar year after year.
What began with five-foot drop tests evolved into a 50-foot intense drop test, and this year, HONOR X9c pushed to the extreme when it was dropped from a helicopter hundreds of feet above the ground, further proving its unmatched toughness.
“One can only think about how we can even top the past three generations of the HONOR X9 series. We must admit it has become a challenge at this point, but with the technology and talent we have at HONOR, it is indeed a good challenge. I’m very excited for everyone to witness what we have been planning for the past few months,” Cheng continued.
That unforgettable moment, when 264 brave participants dropped their HONOR X9c 5G simultaneously, earned HONOR a coveted spot in the Guinness World Records for the most people performing a mobile phone drop test simultaneously.
This historic feat positioned HONOR Philippines as a benchmark in delivering credible, impactful messaging, reinforcing HONOR’s place as the standard for innovation, durability, and trust among Filipino consumers.
The question remains, is HONOR ready to follow the success of the past HONOR X9 series? Stay tuned.
For more information and exciting announcements, visit HONOR’s website at http://www.hihonor.com or follow its social media platforms on Facebook at facebook.com/HonorPhilippines, Instagram at instagram.com/honorph, and TikTok at tiktok.com/@honorphilippines.
In the meantime, check out HONOR’s wide array of mobile phones, tablets, and laptops at any HONOR Experience and Partner Stores nationwide or online via Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok Shop.
Vivien Lin, Chief Product Officer at @BingXOfficial, explains that this transition is driven by regulatory clarity, growing institutional participation, and the adoption of blockchain infrastructure by financial institutions.https://t.co/9g5IW9X1VA
Started with HONOR X9a 5G in 2023, HONOR has been dropping hits after hit. At this point, the new year’s campaign of the viral phone series has already become a tradition.
“When we launched HONOR X9a 5G, we literally had zero expectations. What we had was hope and confidence in our capabilities, and then it exceeded all expectations. We did not let the success get into our heads; we just thought it was beginner’s luck. So we leveled up with HONOR X9b 5G, and again it became a massive hit. Then HONOR X9c 5G came and it was our biggest feat yet, outdoing everything we’ve done in 2023 and 2024,” said HONOR Philippines Vice President Stephen Cheng.
The HONOR X9 series has been synonymous with exceptional durability, raising the bar year after year.
What began with five-foot drop tests evolved into a 50-foot intense drop test, and this year, HONOR X9c pushed to the extreme when it was dropped from a helicopter hundreds of feet above the ground, further proving its unmatched toughness.
“One can only think about how we can even top the past three generations of the HONOR X9 series. We must admit it has become a challenge at this point, but with the technology and talent we have at HONOR, it is indeed a good challenge. I’m very excited for everyone to witness what we have been planning for the past few months,” Cheng continued.
That unforgettable moment, when 264 brave participants dropped their HONOR X9c 5G simultaneously, earned HONOR a coveted spot in the Guinness World Records for the most people performing a mobile phone drop test simultaneously.
This historic feat positioned HONOR Philippines as a benchmark in delivering credible, impactful messaging, reinforcing HONOR’s place as the standard for innovation, durability, and trust among Filipino consumers.
The question remains, is HONOR ready to follow the success of the past HONOR X9 series? Stay tuned.
For more information and exciting announcements, visit HONOR’s website at http://www.hihonor.com or follow its social media platforms on Facebook at facebook.com/HonorPhilippines, Instagram at instagram.com/honorph, and TikTok at tiktok.com/@honorphilippines.
In the meantime, check out HONOR’s wide array of mobile phones, tablets, and laptops at any HONOR Experience and Partner Stores nationwide or online via Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok Shop.
Vivien Lin, Chief Product Officer at @BingXOfficial, explains that this transition is driven by regulatory clarity, growing institutional participation, and the adoption of blockchain infrastructure by financial institutions.https://t.co/9g5IW9X1VA
ChatGPT has surpassed $3 billion in global consumer spending on mobile, according to estimates from app intelligence provider Appfigures, marking a major milestone since the app’s launch on iOS in May 2023.
Analysts say this rapid growth highlights the accelerating adoption of AI-powered applications among everyday users.
The majority of spending occurred in 2025, with consumers estimated to have spent $2.48 billion on ChatGPT mobile this year, a 408% increase from the $487 million spent in 2024.
In its first year of availability, the app earned $42.9 million, before surging more than tenfold to reach the 2024 total.
Appfigures emphasized that ChatGPT reached the $3 billion milestone in just 31 months, faster than TikTok, which took 58 months, and ahead of streaming apps like Disney+ and HBO Max, which reached the same figure in 42 and 46 months respectively.
Industry experts note that ChatGPT’s spending trajectory reflects broader trends in AI adoption, with users increasingly paying for premium services. ChatGPT mobile offers paid subscriptions such as ChatGPT Plus at $20 per month and ChatGPT Pro at $200 per month for advanced users.
Analysts point out that while these subscriptions are a major revenue source, AI apps have additional monetization pathways, including developer offerings and potential advertising. ChatGPT recently launched its own app store, which company representatives have indicated may generate revenue in the future.
Comparisons with other AI platforms show similar trends. xAI’s Grok, launched in late 2023 for X Premium Plus subscribers and broadly available in 2024, has seen a spending trajectory close to ChatGPT’s early growth, while Anthropic is focusing on enterprise customers and is projected to reach $70 billion in revenue by 2028.
Google is exploring the integration of AI into its advertising model, including placing ads in AI Mode, AI Overviews, AI shopping, and AI-powered Discover. Analysts suggest these developments indicate a rapidly evolving market where AI apps are emerging as significant revenue drivers across both consumer and enterprise sectors.
The ChatGPT milestone underscores the increasing willingness of users to pay for AI-enhanced tools and signals continued competition among AI platforms to capture consumer attention and spending.
Homegrown fashion giant Penshoppe is ushering in a new era of comfort and connection with its latest campaign, “Cozy Days Ahead.” https://t.co/58q4DJoY1w
Maestro Claudio introduces two knockout new scenes this week, welcoming Frenchy in her first appearance for DP Diva and Lilith Grace’s debut for PervCity.
The new DP Diva scene, “Busty MILF Frenchy Ends Double Penetration And DVP With A Facial”, features the alluring up-and-comer in an unforgettable erotic adventure with co-stars Donny Sins and Eric John.
“Very good to work with Donny and Eric for the first time; hope to shoot with them again soon!” enthused Frenchy of the performance. “The team was amazing as always – love you guys! I learned again more stuff because of Claudio about the positions and others.”
Maestro Claudio stated, “Frenchy impressed me from the moment she walked on set. She’s got this unfiltered energy and clarity about who she is that made directing her a pleasure. I think this scene shows how much potential she has, and why she’s someone to watch.”
Over on PervCity, Lilith Grace returns to Maestro’s world in “Horny Lilith Grace Moans Softly While Receiving An Anal Fucking”, co-starring Milan Ponjevic. While this marks her PervCity debut, Grace previously scored waves in her earlier DP Divarelease, “Hot and Horny Busty Brunette Lilith Grace Receives Her First Ever DP”.
“I love getting my booty hole fucked so much!” said Grace. “Milan used me like a little fuck toy, and Claudio is one of the nicest older guys I know. I’m still horny!”
Maestro Claudio added, “Lilith brings a deliberate, focused intensity to every frame, and working with her is always smooth sailing. There’s a confidence in her performance that makes everything click, and I think this PervCity debut lets that shine through in a really fun way.”
As the Philippines continues its efforts to combat African Swine Fever (ASF) through strict import protocols and domestic containment measures, importers increasingly prioritize consistency, origin transparency, and certified food safety—areas where Belgian suppliers excel.
Belgium may be a small country, but it’s a major player in the pork industry—it’s one of the top 10 pork exporters in the world.
In 2024, Belgium exported 690,628 tons to over 70 countries worldwide, including the Philippines, where the demand for safe, traceable, and premium pork remains strong amid ongoing supply and disease control challenges.
Efficiency and flexibility
Efficiency is Belgium’s competitive advantage, states Luc Verspreet, the former president of FEBEV (the Belgian meat federation). “Belgium has the best cost-per-kilo ratio in Europe. Thanks to our efficient production system, we are well-equipped for the future. In 20 years, the sector may be smaller, but it will still be present, both as a producer and as an exporter.”
For Joris Coenen, manager of the Belgian Meat Office (BMO), Belgian pork suppliers’ ways of working and attitude make a huge difference. “Belgian meat suppliers offer a tailored service worldwide. With a deep understanding of each customer’s specific needs, these suppliers develop strong and sustainable collaborations with reliable partners. They also manage customized, flexible, efficient solutions that are fully aligned with the customer’s business.”
Gerard Van Landschoot, current president of FEBEV, adds, “Our greatest strength has always been flexibility. Reinventing ourselves, anticipating change, staying ahead of the curve: this is our history, past and future.”
Tradition and innovation
Belgian family businesses remain rooted in craftsmanship and continuity, while facing growing pressure from consumers, regulators, and global competitors to evolve.
The future of Belgian meat depends on a balance of both: preserving traditional skills while integrating cutting-edge technologies into a forward-thinking and sustainable business model. This dualism pays off and leads to a unique product.
State-of-the-art pork meat
The efforts of the Belgian meat suppliers result in a tasty, safe, and authentic product, with guaranteed traceability and certified quality—something BMO and the meat suppliers are particularly proud of.
This commitment to food safety and transparency aligns with the priorities of Filipino consumers and food businesses, especially in light of the increased scrutiny of imported meat products. Belgian exporters strictly comply with European Union regulations, offering the Philippines a stable and trustworthy supply partner.
Meet the Belgian meat suppliers at FHA 2026
BMO will attend Food & Hospitality Asia 2026 in Singapore from April 21 to 24, 2026. BMO and the participating Belgian pork suppliers look forward to welcoming food industry professionals at Stand 9G2-07.
Apple has revised its developer license agreement to allow the company to recoup unpaid commissions and other fees from in-app purchases processed on developers’ behalf.
The change affects developers in regions that permit external payment systems, requiring them to report such transactions so Apple can claim its share.
The update gives Apple the right to “offset or recoup” amounts it believes are owed, including funds collected from end-users, at any time.
Developers could face deductions from digital goods, services, subscriptions, or one-time app fees if Apple determines earnings have been underreported. The agreement does not clarify how these determinations will be made.
This move has implications for markets including the EU, U.S., and Japan, where the legality and rate of commissions on externally processed payments vary.
In the U.S., courts are still weighing Apple’s ability to collect partial commissions, following a federal appeals ruling that instructed a lower court to consider allowing some collection but not the full 27% fee previously charged.
The update also addresses region-specific charges, such as the EU’s Core Technology Fee (CTF), which will transition in January 2026 to a more complex, percentage-based Core Technology Commission (CTC) applicable to apps using external payments or distributed under alternative business terms.
Apple can also collect unpaid amounts from affiliates, parent companies, or subsidiaries tied to the same account, broadening its enforcement reach across developer portfolios.
Additional changes cover age assurance technology, new iOS app terms in Japan, and rules for voice-activated assistants, including restrictions on recordings made without user awareness.
Apple clarified that applications may not be designed to facilitate such recordings but has not defined enforcement methods.
The revisions underscore Apple’s focus on maintaining revenue capture amid evolving regulatory scrutiny and external payment alternatives, raising compliance and financial reporting considerations for developers operating in multiple jurisdictions.
Homegrown fashion giant Penshoppe is ushering in a new era of comfort and connection with its latest campaign, “Cozy Days Ahead.” https://t.co/58q4DJoY1w
