Erajaya Digital, bolttech launch new device protection programme

Erajaya Digital, a business vertical of Erajaya Group, one of Indonesia’s leading digital and lifestyle device retailers, has officially launched a new device protection programme. This service goes beyond physical device repair and protection by introducing an added layer of cyberprotection that notifies customers if there is an attempt to use their personal data. 

The service, presented through a collaboration with bolttech, a provider of embedded protection solutions, combines fast, reliable repair services with essential digital security in a convenient and affordable package. It can also alert customers of any attempts to misuse their personal data. 

“We’ve seen how customer needs have evolved. They’re not only looking to protect their devices physically, but also want peace of mind when navigating the digital world. That’s why we’re launching this value-add service with bolttech,” said Joy Wahjudi, CEO, Erajaya Digital.

This service offers: 

- Protection from physical damage, such as drops, screen cracks, and liquid exposure 

- Fast, guaranteed repairs by certified technicians 

- Cyberprotection features, including personal data leak monitoring and real-time alerts on unauthorised data use.

“We’re proud to partner with Erajaya Digital to bring this next-generation protection service to customers, combining device care and digital safety into one seamless solution,” said Andrew Cons, GM – Indonesia, bolttech.

Details

The service is now available at Erajaya Digital’s retail stores, including erafone, Xiaomi by erafone, and Huawei by erafone. For more information, visit the nearest participating store.

Acronis: Need for simpler, more accessible cybersecurity paired with data backups

Source: Acronis Data Privacy in 2025 report. Asked about data privacy best practices, over 60% of respondents said they use strong, unique passwords for each account.

Acronis, a global provider of cybersecurity and data protection, has unveiled the inaugural Data Privacy in 2025: A survey to explore consumer views on cyber protection report. In its first year, the survey uncovered a stark contrast between growing awareness of cyberthreats and the lack of proactive security measures among individuals worldwide.

The research has found that data breaches are a top privacy concern for 64% of consumers, emphasising the urgent need to strengthen personal cyberdefences. Other highlights include: 

Data breach fears 

Despite heightened awareness, 25% of respondents have experienced data theft or loss, and 12% remain unsure if they’ve been breached, exhibiting the hidden nature of many cyberattacks. 

Solid backup practices

Two-thirds (66%) back up their data regularly, while 9% don’t back up their data at all. Four percent don’t know what 'backup' means. 

Weak password protection

While more than two-thirds (68%) use strong, unique passwords, fewer than half (46%) employ two-factor authentication (2FA), a key defence against breaches. 

Mobile security adoption lags

Although 43% of respondents report using mobile security apps, 35% are unfamiliar with these tools, even though smartphones have become essential to modern digital life. 

Attitudes vs actions

While over 60% rate data security as 'very important', only 40% frequently update their passwords, and nearly 70% continue to use public Wi-Fi for sensitive activities. 

Consumer frustrations

Nearly 30% of respondents find security tools too complex to use, and 25% cite high costs as a barrier to adoption. 

Generational divide

Consumers under 35 report significantly more breach incidents than older demographics (aged 55–64), potentially reflecting riskier digital habits. 

Cyber education on the rise

Encouragingly, video-based cybersecurity education is gaining traction, with 44% of respondents turning to online videos to learn about safety best practices. 

“At Acronis, we’ve seen how both corporate practices and individual behaviours shape the landscape of data privacy and cyberprotection,” said Gaidar Magdanurov, President at Acronis. 

“We launched this survey around Data Privacy Day to better understand how home users think about data protection and the steps they are taking to safeguard their information. While many people are rightly concerned about how organisations handle their data, this survey highlights that individuals also play a crucial role in protecting themselves.”

According to Acronis, the report serves as a global reminder of the importance of safeguarding personal information. The company has urged consumers to adopt foundational practices such as regular data backups, enabling 2FA, and using mobile security apps in conjunction with Data Privacy Day on January 28.

“This inaugural consumer-focused survey from Acronis highlights a critical paradox in modern cybersecurity - individuals are increasingly aware of the risks, yet still many lack the tools or knowledge to protect themselves effectively,” said Gerald Beuchelt, CISO at Acronis. 

“Data breaches are a top concern globally so there is an urgent need for simpler, more accessible cybersecurity solutions paired with data backup, and stronger education to empower individuals to protect their digital lives. These efforts can help bridge the gap between awareness and action.”

Explore

Browse the survey findings and insights by visiting https://www.acronis.com/en-us/blog/posts/data-privacy-survey-consumers-worry-about-data-but-dont-do-enough-to-protect-it/

Get the report at https://www.acronis.com/en-us/resource-center/resource/data-privacy-in-2025-survey/

*The Acronis Data Privacy in 2025 survey gathered responses from 2,480 general- population consumers aged 18–64 across the world.

Singapore Expo CNY Fair gives discounts of S$380 to the first 888 customers daily

-  Angbaos (lucky red packets) containing the discounts can be used to purchase selected items on top of promotions offered (terms and conditions apply)

- Items offered at up to 88% off-

The Singapore Expo CNY Fair will be giving out free lucky anbaos g pows worth S$380 each to the first 888 customers per day from 10 to 12 January. The event will take place at Singapore Expo Hall 6 from 12 pm to 9 pm daily. 


Customers may use the vouchers in the angbaos to purchase electronics appliances. The discount is applied on top of promotional prices that are up to 88% off. Brands such as Apple, Acer, Bosch, Electrolux, Hitachi, Kadeka, Karcher, LG, Mitsubishi, Philips, Samsung, Sharp Panasonic, 707 and more will be at the fair.

Source: Singapore Expo CNY Fair. Part of the brochure showing offers for home entertainment.

Details:

One angbao will be given out per person, for the first 888 customers per day. Interested customers are required to RSVP online and redeem their angbaos at the fair between 10-12 January 2020. Each S$380 lucky angbao consists of the following discounts:

Two vouchers each for: Eligible technology items (terms and conditions apply)  S$10 (minimum spend of S$30) Mobile phones & tablet TV box Laptop accessories S$30 (no minimum spend) TVs with screens of 32” and above Soundbars Electronic keyboards Refurbished desktop/notebook products S$50 (no minimum spend) 48” and above TVs Dolby Atmos Soundbars Computer monitors S$100 (no minimum spend) TVs with 55” screens and above Desktop/notebook products

Singapore Expo CNY Fair
Date: 10 – 12 January 2020
Venue: Singapore Expo Hall 6
Opening hours: 12 pm – 9 pm

*Terms and conditions: While stocks last. The vouchers cannot be used for specific items. Check the event brochures for more information.

Huawei reassures phone and tablet users that it will continue to provide support

A Reuters story has shared that Google plans to "suspend business with Huawei" on software, hardware and services that are not open source as a result of a US government decision against Huawei. This is set to affect new phones from Huawei, and not existing phones.

Android also tweeted that Google Play and security functions from Google Play will continue to function on existing Huawei devices.

For Huawei users' questions regarding our steps to comply w/ the recent US government actions: We assure you while we are complying with all US gov't requirements, services like Google Play & security from Google Play Protect will keep functioning on your existing Huawei device.

— Android (@Android) May 20, 2019

Huawei has released an official statement in response:

"Huawei has made substantial contributions to the development and growth of Android around the world. As one of Android’s key global partners, we have worked closely with their open-source platform to develop an ecosystem that has benefitted both users and the industry.

"Huawei will continue to provide security updates and after-sales services to all existing Huawei and Honor smartphone and tablet products, covering those that have been sold and that are still in stock globally.

"We will continue to build a safe and sustainable software ecosystem, in order to provide the best experience for all users globally."

That said, the reactions on Reddit have ranged from deciding the phones are no longer useable immediately, the phones will no longer be useable in future, what it means to the Huawei phone strategy, whether the US might change its stance to thinking of ways to get around the ban.

The US government added Huawei to its Entity List on May 16. According to the US Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS): "Huawei has been determined by the US government to be acting contrary to the national security or foreign policy interests of the United States.  BIS is also adding Huawei’s non-US affiliates to the Entity List because they pose a significant risk of becoming involvement in activities contrary to the national security or foreign policy interests of the United States due to their relationship with Huawei.  Huawei will be listed on the Entity List under the destination of China.  This final rule also adds to the Entity List 72 non-US affiliates of Huawei located in 26 destinations: Belgium, Bolivia, Brazil, Burma, Canada, Chile, China, Egypt, Germany, Hong Kong, Jamaica, Japan, Jordan, Lebanon, Madagascar, Netherlands, Oman, Pakistan, Paraguay, Qatar, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Switzerland, Taiwan, United Kingdom, and Vietnam."

CEE is poised to show off gadgets and games

• GAMEX's Singapore Robo Fight (Level 4, Gamex Booth 8601)
• Player Unknown’s Battlegrounds (PUBG) Mobile (Level 4, Gamex Booth 8601)
• Courts launches Singapore’s first air-con subscription service (Level 4, Booth 8113)
• Gadgets trade-in extended to corporate customers (Entrance at the front of Hall 403)
• Hot deals: Singtel GOMO - Free Best Denki S$20 voucher
• New products: OPSH Ultra Sound System Series, Klipsch T5 earphones, Google Pixel 3a and 3a XL

Get ready for gadgets and gaming at the 4th Consumer Electronics Exhibition (CEE). Held from 23 - 26 May 2019, CEE 2019 is organised by Exhibits Inc, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Sphere Exhibits, the events and exhibitions arm of Singapore Press Holdings.

Highlights include:

Singapore Robo Fight 2019 (Level 4, Gamex Booth 8601)

Control mini battle robots around obstacles with a smartphone to search and destroy enemies. Every battle robot has a camera with augmented reality so that the gamer’s smartphone can detect, track and attack enemy robots with various virtual weaponry.

The top two winners at the local qualifiers at CEE will represent Singapore at the upcoming World Cyber Games in Xian, China. Winners at the local qualifiers stand to win over S$3,000 in cash prizes.

Player Unknown’s Battlegrounds (PUBG) Mobile (Level 4, Gamex Booth 8601)

PUBG Mobile as the main competition title at GAMEX. Participants will rally themselves in squads of four to fight for glory and a chance to win over S$1,000 in cash prizes.

Source: CEE website. Banner for

Discover Microsoft (Level 3, Booth 318)

At the Create zone, discover how Microsoft Surface and Microsoft Office 365 are designed to unlock creativity. At the Play zone, find out why games play best on Xbox One. Fight the dangers of an ever-changing world in Anthem, and survive through the apocalypse in Metro Saga.


Singapore’s first air-con subscription service at Courts (Level 4, Booth 8113)

Instead of paying up-front for air-conditioners and extra for repairs and maintenance, users can pay a monthly fee to get it all. Courts is partnering electrical appliance brand Midea* for the subscription service at CEE. Users pay a monthly fee of between S$29 and S$99 per month for six years to cover the cost of the air-con units, unlimited repairs plus regular cleaning and maintenance.

Gadgets trade-in extended to corporate customers (Entrance at the front of Hall 403)

Consumers trading in their old gadgets for cash vouchers has become a regular feature at tech shows. For the first time, companies can now enjoy the same benefits at CEE 2019 for their old laptops, tablets, desktops, phones and monitors. Corporate users need to fill in an online form and arrange for a viewing appointment. Once the parties agree on the value of the trade-in, the company will be issued cash vouchers when it brings the gadgets to CEE 2019 for redemption. The vouchers can be used for purchases at select retailers at CEE 2019. 

GOMO by Singtel (Level 3 Summit, Booth 3S05)

Switch your number to GOMO by Singtel at CEE 2019, and get a S$20 Best Denki voucher on top of a free GOMO travel SIM worth S$20. This offer is exclusive to CEE. GOMO by Singtel is a no-contract SIM-only plan offering 20 GB of data monthly for S$20 which has been making waves with Millennials. GOMO subscribers also get 200 minutes of talktime, 200 SMS and free incoming calls.

..And more

Gamers will be treated to CEE-exclusive deals on the Super SXFI holographic audio technology with the Creative SXFI AIR C, while Dell is offering deals on its high-security Dell Latitude 5590 business laptops.



New products include:

OPSH Ultra Sound System Series (Level 4, Booth 8460)

Home-grown furniture brand OPSH takes its first dip in the tech world by launching its brand-new OPSH Ultra sound system at CEE 2019. This modular soundbar can be customised to fit into furniture. With Bluetooth connectivity, powerful speakers and a built-mic, users can even take their calls at the soundbar.  

Klipsch T5 earphones (Level 3, Booth 311)

First announced at the Consumer Electronics Show in the US this year, this new range of earphones from Klipsch makes its debut here at CEE 2019 before its launch in the US. The T5 Sport is ideal for the active with long-lasting battery and ear wings that keep the earphones in the ear. The T5 Neckband is great for the executive who prioritises voice clarity and long battery life while demanding minimalism. And for music lovers, there is the T5 Wired that takes all the great features from the previous line of Klipsch R6 earphones and makes them even better. 

Google Pixel 3a and 3a XL (Level 4, Booth 8105)

These just-released mid-range smartphones are packed with a powerful camera, fast-charging adaptive battery, and built-in Google Assistant.

Details:

CEE 
Suntec Singapore Convention Centre
Level 3: 11 am - 9 pm
Level 4: 12 pm - 9 pm

Check out purchase-with-purchase offers

Register for Singapore Robo Fight  

Register for PUBG Mobile

*This author owns Midea air-conditioners from Courts and they are exceptionally quiet, extremely cold, and have so far only needed servicing once in nearly two years.

Philips shares tips for a healthier heart, introduces new product innovations

· Chronic illnesses are on the rise, and cardiovascular disease is the top cause of death globally¹. In Singapore, nearly one out of three deaths is due to heart disease or stroke².

· Healthy homemade food boosts heart health and brings people together, while good oral health habits can lower risk of heart disease

· Philips’ product innovations empower consumers to take control of their own health


Royal Philips, a global leader in health technology and partner of the World Heart Federation, celebrated World Heart Day on 29 September in Singapore, by bringing awareness to cardiovascular diseases and collaborating with industry experts – a chef, a nutritionist from the Singapore Heart Foundation and a dentist – to bring into focus the everyday issues faced by consumers that are hindering them from being healthy.

In Asia, megatrends such as an ageing population and sedentary lifestyles are leading to chronic illnesses like cardiovascular disease. In fact, nearly 1 out of 3 deaths in Singapore is due to heart disease or stroke2. However, simple changes such as eating healthier food, ensuring good oral care habits and taking ownership of our own health can help reduce the risk of developing heart disease.

“Taking control of our health is a daily choice, whether it’s consuming healthy food and drinks or building good oral care habits. To help make this daily decision simpler, Philips’ breakthrough product innovations empower consumers to make healthier choices more often and enjoy the longer-term health benefits of good eating and brushing habits, such as reduced risk of obesity and heart disease,” said Matt Moran, GM, Personal Health, Philips ASEAN Pacific.

In Singapore, a love of local food, coupled with the pressures of urban life, mean that consumers often struggle to prepare meals that are healthy yet tasty. To bridge this gap Philips partnered with Angela May, culinary host, chef and restaurant owner, to produce recipes inspired by giving local food a healthy twist.

Source: Philips. Healthy breakfast recipes.

Source: Philips. Healthy lunch recipes.

“Food and healthy living are two things I am passionate about, so it made sense to combine the two into heart-healthy versions of local dishes. People generally have a misconception that healthy food is not tasty. However innovations in technology have made it possible to prepare great tasting meals in an easy and convenient way. I hope these recipes will make it easier for Singaporeans to eat healthier without compromising on delicious local fare,” said May, Culinary Host and Consultant, Chef-Owner of Ange Cafe @ Glasshouse Robinsons The Heeren.

Not many know that oral healthcare can also have an impact on heart health. Severe gum disease can lead to increased risk of stroke and heart attack – one study found that people with severe gum disease reported 40% more chronic conditions such as liver disease, coronary heart disease and even congestive heart failure than those without³.

"Good oral health habits can impact more than just your smile. It's clear that oral care is linked to overall wellbeing, and is a key part of caring for your personal health. I hope that with proper guidance and education, Singaporeans will have better health by taking better care of their teeth, gums and tongue functions, starting at home," said Dr Yue Weng Cheu, Clinical Director of DP Dental and The Linguadontics Clinic.

Philips’ suite of products is designed to make it convenient and sustainable for consumers to stay empowered in their personal health journey, narrowing the gap between professional and personal healthcare. This World Heart Day, Philips is presenting several new innovations to accomplish just that.

• Philips Sonicare DiamondClean Smart HX9924/46 - Singapore is the first country in Southeast Asia where it has been launched
• Philips Avance Collection Blender HR3658/01 
• Philips Viva Collection Blender HR3556/00 

Source: Philips. The Philips Avance Collection Blender HR3658/01.

Source: Philips. The Philips Viva Collection Blender HR3556/00.

Source: Philips. The Philips Sonicare DiamondClean Smart HX9924/46 is connected to the Philips Sonicare app.

The Philips Sonicare DiamondClean Smart HX9924/46 is a new connected toothbrush and total oral care solution bringing together the ultimate in Philips Sonicare performance, smart sensor technology and an intuitive brushing experience to help users achieve their oral health goals³. Connected to the Philips Sonicare app, smart sensors in the toothbrush help users improve their brushing technique and achieve better results in-between visits to their dental practitioner.

For more efficient cleaning, the four new smart brush heads automatically select the optimal settings and work with Philips’ Sonic technology to remove up to 10x more plaque⁴ and 100% more stains in just three days⁵.

Additionally, two new Philips blenders – the Philips Avance Collection Blender HR3658/01 and Philips Viva Collection Blender HR3556/00 – feature the latest blending technology, enabling a fast and easy way to get a full day’s worth of nutrients.

The Philips Viva Collection Blender has an On-the-Go tumbler that allows users to blend smoothies directly in it, cap the tumbler and go. The texture of the smoothie can be varied with the easy-grip control dial and pulse function. It features the ProBlend 6 blender design for effective blending and mixing, and a 700W motor that can even crush ice.

The Philips Avance Collection Blender features a 2l glass jar and Advanced ProBlend 6 3D blending technology, plus a 1,400W 35,000rpm motor to ensure that all ingredients are quickly and evenly blended.

Interested?

The Philips Avance Collection Blender has a recommended retail price (RRP) of S$449 while the The Philips Viva Collection Blender has a RRP of S$249.

The Sonicare Diamondclean Smart Sonic electric toothbrush costs S$399. The Philips Sonicare app is free to download and available on iOS and Android devices.

All products are available in Singapore now at Philips as well as from selected electronic stores, major departmental stores and authorised dealers. 

Do you have heart disease?

The subtle symptoms of heart disease⁶ include:

1 Extreme fatigue 

2 Swollen feet 

3 Pain or cramping when climbing, walking, or moving 

4 Feeling dizzy or light-headed 

5 Shortness of breath   

6 Depression 

7 Migraines 

8 Loud heartbeat 

9 Combined anxiety, sweating and nausea attack

Oral care tips

Oral health impacts overall wellbeing, and gum disease and poor oral health have been linked to health conditions such as cardiovascular disease³. Philips's oral care tips include: 

- Brush your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes with fluoride toothpaste.

- Avoid rinsing with water straight after brushing; spit out excess toothpaste to maximise the protective effects of fluoride.

- Limit the amount of fizzy drinks and fruit juice drunk – they can both be high in sugar, which can cause tooth decay. 

- Avoid tobacco use for good oral health. 

- To protect your teeth, wait at least 30 minutes before brushing your teeth after every main meal.

- Visit a dentist at least once a year, and seek advice if you see signs of bad oral health. 

    

Improving heart health

                                                    

A heart-healthy diet may reduce the risk of someone developing heart disease or having a stroke by 80%⁷. Philips' tips for heart health include:

- Try to restrict your intake of salt and sugar by not adding them to food unless necessary.

- Daily fat intake should not exceed 30% of the total daily energy intake according to the World Health Organization.

- Avoid fast food and other processed foods that are high in saturated fats.

- Prepare homemade food as it gives control over the ingredients used.

- Use an appliance such as the Philips Airfryer to reduce your fat intake – it helps you to prepare tasty, healthier food at home, with little to no oil.

- Include plenty of fruit and vegetables, nuts, whole grains, lean meat, and fish. 

1 World Health Organization Factsheet, July 2017

2 Heart disease statistics

3 Bensley, L. VanEwyk, J and Ossiander, EM. Associations of self-reported periodontal disease with metabolic syndrome and number of self-reported chronic conditions. May 2010 and The FDI Oral Health Atlas. April 2015.

4 Than a manual toothbrush.

5 As compared to a manual toothbrush with a leading whitening toothpaste.

6 Cardiovascular disease and physical activity

7 Heart-healthy diet tips

Nike introduces personalised experience linked to the Nike NBA Jersey

A tag containing a NFC chip on Nike's new Nike NBA Jersey with NikeConnect unlocks real-time, personalised experiences in conjunction with the NikeConnect mobile app. Nike said that the Nike NBA Connected Jersey experience, as unlocked by NikeConnect technology, represents the first time that premium NBA content can be accessed through interaction with apparel.

From September 29, NikePlus members and NBA fans can access product, customised content and exclusive experiences through their jersey’s jock tag, where a NFC chip is located under the NikeConnect logo.

Source: NikeConnect app screens.

Interested?

The NikeConnect app is available for both Android and iOS 11 (iPhone 7 or newer; Android devices with NFC capability) globally. The Nike NBA Connected Jersey launches September 29 at nike.com/nba, nbastore.com, a Nike store or at team retailer. Check out the video of the Nike NBA connected jersey

Digital commerce demystified

Source: Accenture. Four business models shaping digital commerce - sharing, personalisation, replenishment and services.

Retailers and consumer goods companies could unlock US$2.95 trillion in value for the industry and consumers over the next decade by accelerating digital transformation, according to a new report* by Accenture Strategy. Investments in new, digitally-driven business models will give consumers greater choice around how they purchase goods and services, and enable companies to deliver profitable, differentiated experiences.

Accenture Strategy’s Painting the Digital Future of Retail and Consumer Goods Companies report, based on analysis for the World Economic Forum, quantified the impact of digital transformation on consumer industries over the next decade. The study identified current consumer appetite for new purchasing experiences, the business models that have the highest potential to unlock new value, and how organisations and policymakers can prepare themselves.


“The next decade will be a golden age for consumers, with technological innovation creating a variety of shopping experiences that will give consumers the simplicity, convenience, or excitement they crave,” said Alison Kennedy, MD, Accenture Strategy. “Out of the US$2.95 trillion in value the report identified, consumers have the most to gain – just over US$2 trillion – through cost and time savings. The success of retailers and consumer goods companies to unlock value will be dependent on their ability to gain a deep understanding of consumers, embrace disruptive technologies and adopt innovative business models.”

Singapore consumers look to be more advanced along reaping digital benefits compared to the rest of the world. Today, 41% of Singapore consumers, compared to the global average of 36%, would allow companies to collect their personal data via intelligent devices in return for a better experience or financial reward. Brand loyalty is at stake. Another 47%, again above the global average of 37%, would subscribe to a service that constantly looks for the best pricing deals on their behalf, and actively recommends which company to switch to, and when.

Forty percent of Singapore consumers, versus the global average of 28%, would use sensor-based digital services that pre-emptively address their needs without human intervention. Another 36%, 10% more than the global average, would subscribe to brands that analyse their shopping history to select products especially for them, and then orders them automatically.

“The retail and consumer goods industries will change more in the next 10 years than they have over the past 40,” said Kennedy. “As expectations around cost, choice, convenience and experience continue to increase, consumers will challenge the industry to evolve and innovate which will drive huge growth in digital commerce.”

To reach the next frontier of digital commerce, retailers and consumer goods companies need to explore the following transformative business models which are already being welcomed by Singapore consumers:

1.     Sharing economy (the next-generation rental market) – Convenience and experience over ownership, at a fraction of the price. Sixty-six percent of Singapore consumers (globally, 52%) said they would use a rental subscription for clothing, renting an item for an occasion and returning it after, instead of purchasing it outright.

2.     Personalisation economy (‘surprise me’ subscriptions) – Expertly curated products tailored to the individual and automatically delivered. Sixty-four percent of consumers (globally, 48%) said they would use this subscription for clothing, where an expert personally selects items they might like based on previous purchases.

3.     Replenishment economy (auto-replenishment) – Smart sensors detect when a product is running low and automatically re-orders then delivers it. Seventy-eight percent of consumers (globally, 63%) would use auto-replenishment for household goods like detergent. Further, 73% would consider it for fresh food items, which is more than the global average of 58%.

4.     Services economy (‘do it for me’) – Services are outsourced so someone else who does the heavy lifting. Sixty-eight percent of consumers (globally, 50%) would use this service for their laundry – pickups, wash-and-fold services, and delivered back to their door.

There is however potential disruption for people and society which companies, policymakers, and regulators need to actively address to:

·         Minimise the impact on local communities – With an increasing number of retail stores downsizing or closing due to the rise of digital commerce, local communities need to respond by businesses and government establishing economic development strategies and partnering with communities to repurpose physical space as hubs for experiences, leisure and lifestyle activities.

·         Reskill the workforce – Emerging technologies will drive a range of efficiencies which will significantly change the nature of the industry’s workforce. Business leaders and policymakers must focus on accelerating reskilling people, creating partnerships with educational institutions, and influencing public policy to meet the needs of the future workforce.

·         Ensure sustainability – Meeting consumer demand for rapid delivery needs to be achieved in parallel to minimising environmental impact. Shifting to electric vehicles and exploring load-sharing can help while also enhancing delivery efficiency. Furthermore, innovation in packaging design and supporting recycling infrastructure is also critical, helping to build a more circular economy.

“To thrive in the next decade, organisations must aggressively pursue innovation and be willing to disrupt themselves. The winners will be those organisations that prioritise adopting a partnership mindset to offer customers new value, innovatively meet consumer demand for new services, and implement advanced data sciences to derive deeper customer insight to enable better decision-making,” said Kennedy.

Interested?

Find out more about the Accenture Painting the Digital Future of Retail and Consumer Goods Companies report 

Hashtags: #Retailers, #CPG

*Accenture Strategy created a value-at-stake methodology to quantify the impact of digital transformation on the retail and consumer goods industries, and consumers, in digitally developed economies over the next decade. Consumer insights were taken from Accenture Strategy’s latest Global Consumer Pulse Research which surveyed 25,426 consumers across 33 countries during July and August 2016, including 360 Singapore consumers.

posted from Bloggeroid

Dell promotions at CEE 2017

Dell is offering a series of promotions at the Consumer Electronics Exhibition (CEE) 2017. Powered by the latest 7th Gen Intel Core processors, these products are designed to deliver the best visual experience with improved gameplay.

CEE star buys include:

Source: Dell. The Dell Inspiron 13 5000 2-in-1 in two of its four modes. Tent mode on the left, and laptop mode on the right.

Inspiron 13 5000 2-in-1

Normal price: From S$1,699
Show price: From S$1,299

· Powered by the latest 7th Gen Intel Core processor

· 13.3" FHD (1,920 x 1,080) IPS Truelife LED-backlit  touch display with wide viewing angles and infrared (IR) camera

· Switch easily between four different modes – tent, stand, laptop, and tablet

Source: Dell website. The Dell XPS 13 2-in-1.

XPS 13 2-in-1

Normal price: From S$2,699
Show price: From S$2,499

· Powered by the latest 7th Gen Intel Core i5 and i7 processors

· 13" QHD+ InfinityEdge touch display – a first for a 2-in-1

· Premium 360-degree hinge for four, flexible positions – tablet, tent, laptop and stand mode

Freebies:

· Free one year Accidental Damage coverage
· Free Dell Active Pen
· Free Dell adapter for USB-C to USB 3.0

Source: Dell. The Alienware 17 R4.

Alienware 17 R4

Normal price: From S$5,699
Show price: From S$5,299 (with GTX1080 graphics card)

· A 17” LCD screen with supported FHD, QHD 120Hz and UHD resolution options – all with antiglare finish

· NVIDIA G-SYNC enabled with Tobii eye-tracking

· VR-ready system that passes the Oculus Ready and Vive Optimized certifications

Freebies:

· Free 2nd year Premium Support with Accidental Damage coverage
· Free Alienware Vindicator Backpack

Products will be available at Dell’s exclusive retailers, at booths 8118, 311, 8111, 8208, and 8368.

CEE 2017 runs till June 4 at Suntec from 11am to 9pm (levels 1 and 3) and 12pm to 9pm (level 4, Halls 403 to 406). Admission is free.

posted from Bloggeroid

Download StarHub's flyers for CEE 2017

Source: StarHub.

StarHub has announced that Singapore’s greenest telco will be present at Consumer Electornics Exhibition (CEE) 2017.

Promotional flyers containing details about the company's mobile, TV, broadband and hubbing offers are available online for enterprise customers, and include the Business Fibre Broadband Bundle.

CEE 2017 runs from June 1 to 4 at Suntec from 11am to 9pm (levels 1 and 3) and 12pm to 9pm (level 4, Halls 403 to 406). Admission is free.

FRED Technologies launches smart mirror

FRED Technologies has launched a waterproof smart mirror, Mirror, designed to be a butler in the digital era. Features include:

* The Android-based Mirror is connected, so it can present the latest news and communicate with third-party lifestyle devices and applications.

* Two speakers built into its champagne gold brushed aluminium frame can broadcast music and accept voice commands.

* The smart display only turns on when a user steps towards it, and dims into a regular mirror when the user walks away.

* The Mirror keeps the environment fresh; with air purifying technology embedded.

Mirror is the signature model and first product by FRED Technologies, the brainchild of Jonathan Yuan, founder and Director, FRED Technologies. Yuan says Mirror is the result of his expertise in tiles and ceramics, and took off on looking for a way to create a mirror that is not prone mirror spots, the black spots on a mirror due to oxidation of the reflective mercury layer from excess moisture.

He adds, "Further, as the Mirror taps on the Android OS, the applications are limitless, and becomes very extensible to any smart appliances that are compatible with the OS. For example, the Mirror is perfect for the hospitality industry, where guests can harness the intelligence of the Mirror to check on local gifts to buy for families, city or suburban bus tours to book, and so on. And in the beauty and fashion industry, the Mirror can be applied to hairdressing and beauty salons to allow customers better use of waiting time while treatments are applied. I foresee the Mirror having literally a life on its own."

Source: Frednology. Mirror in action.

Interested?

Mirror is available online at S$2,700. It is a limited edition signature model, with only 500 pieces available worldwide.

· Dimensions: 800 x 500 x 18mm
· Screen: 15.6" (1,920 x 1,080 resolution)
· Weight: 9kg
· Colour: Champagne gold
· OS Version: Android 5.0
· Language: Multi-language
· RAM: 2GB DDR3
· ROM: 16GB eMMC FLASH
· Connectivity: Wi-Fi, 802.11 b/g/n, Bluetooth 4.0, USB 2.0

Watch an introductory video

posted from Bloggeroid

New Zealand optimistic about the future

New Zealand is feeling the highest level of optimism in three years, according to the latest Mastercard Index of Consumer Confidence (MICC)*, which is conducted twice a year.

The survey** by Mastercard has upgraded New Zealand’s consumer confidence from neutral to optimistic with a score of 62.2. This is a 6.8 point increase since the previous survey was undertaken six months ago, the first time New Zealand has been classed optimistic since 2014.

The index, which measures the six month outlook on five economic factors including the economy, employment prospects, regular income prospects, stock market and quality of life, is calculated on a scale of 0 to 100, with zero as the most pessimistic, 100 most optimistic, and 50 as neutral.

The latest survey highlighted that New Zealanders are more confident across economic (64.3), employment (64.0), quality of life (52.4) and stock market (56.6) factors. Regular income confidence, the highest measure in the survey, dropped 2.1 points to 73.9.

“It’s great to see New Zealand break into the optimistic group of the survey for only the second time since 2010 – although it’s unsurprising considering New Zealand’s economy has been growing robustly in recent times,” says Peter Chisnall, Mastercard Country Manager for New Zealand and Pacific Islands.

“We’re seeing strong tourism and migration underpin consumer spending, while the housing shortage and Canterbury rebuild have buoyed building activity. And with annual GDP growth of 3.6%, this is not only historically strong, but in the top tier of growth performance across the developed world,” says Chisnall.

More than a third of Kiwi consumers expressed confidence in their future prospects and sense of health security.

“The labour market remains strong, particularly in Auckland, and we are continuing to enjoy high levels economic and political stability. This contributes to an ongoing stable business and social environment which in turn provides Kiwis with the confidence to seek new opportunities,” adds Chisnall.

Internationally, New Zealand’s consumer confidence score is just below the average for the rest of the Asia Pacific region, which came in with a score of 68.1. The country is significantly ahead of neighbouring Australia, which scored 46.5.

New Zealand remains ranked 9th overall, while Australia placed 10th out of the 17 surveyed markets.

Mastercard Index of Consumer Confidence New Zealand – 2H16

Overall MICC 62.2, optimistic; some improvement from six months ago (+6.8)

• Employment 64.0, optimistic; significant improvement from six months ago (+11.4) 
• Economy 64.3, optimistic; significant improvement from six months ago (+12.7) 
• Regular income 73.9, optimistic; stable compared to six months ago (-2.1) 
• Stock market 56.6, neutral; stable compared to six months ago (+1.7) 
• Quality of life 52.4, neutral; significant improvement from six months ago (+10.3)

Hashtag: #MastercardNZ

*The MICC Index score and the five component index scores range from 0 to 100 where 0 represents maximum pessimism, 100 represents maximum optimism and 50 represents neutrality.

**The Mastercard Index of Consumer Confidence survey has a 20-year track record of consumer confidence indices collected from over 200,000 interviews. It is the most comprehensive and longest running survey of its kind in the Asia Pacific region. In June 1997, the index revealed a decline in consumer confidence – one month prior to the devaluation of the Thai baht that triggered the regional economic crisis. In June 2003, the Index score for Employment in Hong Kong dropped to a low score of 20. This was subsequently reflected in Hong Kong’s unemployment rate, which peaked just before September 2003 at 8%.

The survey began in the first half of 1993 and has been conducted twice yearly since. Seventeen Asia Pacific markets now participate in the survey: Australia, Bangladesh, mainland China, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Myanmar, New Zealand, Philippines, South Korea, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand and Vietnam.

Between November and December 2016, 8,723 respondents aged between 18 to 64 in 17 Asia Pacific markets, were asked to give a six-month outlook on five economic factors. Respondents were asked five questions pertaining to their six-month outlook on the economy, their employment prospects, the local stock market, their regular income prospects, and their quality of life. The results of their responses were converted in five component indexes which were subsequently averaged to form the MICC score. The MICC Index score and the five component index scores range from 0 to 100 where 0 represents maximum pessimism, 100 represents maximum optimism and 50 represents neutrality.

Deep discounts on gadgets galore at the Shopee Online IT Fair

The Shopee Online IT Fair lets consumers score IT deals while avoiding the crowds till 19 March 2017. There is something for everyone on the mobile-first marketplace:

15 March: Everything at $5 Sale

Buy selected products such as the Xplorer 3300 Mouse & Keyboard bundle at S$5.

16 March: Everything at $3 Sale

Selected products such as the Toshiba 8GB Thumbdrive week be available at S$3.

17 March: Everything at $1 Sale

Selected products such as Google Virtual Reality Glasses are to be had at S$1.

17 – 19 March: Bye 2G Phone Mega Sale

Affected by the discontinuation of 2G phones in 1 April 2017 in Singapore? There is a curated list of 3G smartphones such as Xiaomi Redmi Note 4X selling at major discounts at the Shopee Online IT Fair.

Shoppers should also keep their eyes peeled for limited time offers:

11 – 12 March

Source: Shopee. The GoPro Hero 5.

GoPro Hero 5

Original price: S$550
Sale price: S$459 (save 17%)

Capture smooth video in 4K resolution. Designed to withstand rugged conditions, this device can be used underwater too.

15 – 16 March

Source: Shopee. The Xbox One.

Xbox One 500GB Console Bundle

Original price: S$300
Sale price: S$250 (save 17%)

With advanced features like Game DVR and in-home streaming, take gameplay to another level with the Xbox One Bundle. Five games are included, such as theUFC, Dragon Age and Pro Evolution Soccer.

17 – 19 March

Source: Shopee. The Razer Firefly (left), and the Razer Diamondback (right).

Razer Bundle: Razer Diamondback Gaming Mouse and Razer Firefly Gaming Mouse Mat

Original price: S$239
Sale price: S$119 (save 50%)

Featuring the world’s first optical gaming sensor, the Razer Diamondback now supports ambidextrous use to deliver even better accuracy and speed. The Razer Firefly’s micro-textured finish is designed to complement the Diamondback even through the most action-packed gaming showdown.

Xiaomi Redmi Note 4X LTE Dual Sim

Original price: S$240
Sale price: S$199 (save 17%)

Source: Shopee. The Xiaomi Redmi Note 4X LTE Dual Sim.

Boasting a 13-megapixel primary camera on the rear and 5 megapixels upfront, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 4X ensures that there’s no compromise on photo quality. This device also comes with a 5.5” touchscreen display for improved user experience and clarity.

LG G6

As part of the Bye 2G Phone Mega Sale campaign, the LG G6 will be exclusive to Shopee with a sale price lower than the current retail prices in Korea. The highly anticipated phone is not available in Singapore yet.

This mobile phone employs a Hi-Fi Quad DAC for a spectacular audio experience. Control the phone with Google Assistant – the LG G6 is the first non-Pixel device to support the voice activated technology.

One lucky winner will also take home the latest game console, the Nintendo Switch. As part of the campaign, Shopee is giving away a Nintendo Switch and two games, Legend of Zelda and 1-2 Switch, worth S$669 in total.

Interested?

The free Shopee app is available for download on the App Store and Google Play store in Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam, the Philippines and Taiwan.

Browse through discounted products by clicking on the in-app Online IT Fair banner.

All sales start at 12am Singapore time on the stipulated dates

Contest giveaway details will be posted on Shopee’s Facebook page. Participants have to ‘Like’ and ‘Share’ the post, and post a wefie in the comments section. Everyone in the wefie must have the Shopee app visible on their devices. The more people you have in your photo, the higher the chances of winning!

posted from Bloggeroid

Check if KSA sales and promotions are genuine with this app

Source: MCI. HE the Minister of Commerce and Investment Dr Majid bin Abdullah Al Qasabi launched the Sales app on 31 January 2017.

The Ministry of Commerce and Investment (MCI), KSA, has launched Sales, an app which gives access to the MCI database of licensed sales and promotions to the public on smart devices. The app aims to shorten search times and guarantee that sales and special offers are genuine.

With the app, consumers can check on more than 27,000 sales outlets and over 700,000 licensed products in the MCI database, including those which are near them. The app is developed and operated by Thiqa, a business service provider.

Interested?

Download the app

Criteo study uncovers evolving shopping practices in Singapore

· Singapore consumers are using multiple devices in the retail journey

· Brick-and-mortar retailers must respond to the local showrooming phenomenon and invest in multichannel integration

· Improving last-mile fulfilment will help local retailers compete more effectively with international e-commerce players


Criteo, the performance marketing technology company, has found that shopping patterns are changing among consumers in Singapore. Singaporeans now own or have access to an average of 4.72 devices, the research by Edelman Intelligence has found.

Source: Criteo. Profiling the mobile shopper in Singapore.

With three-quarters using these devices to purchase online at least once a month, cross-device usage, ‘showrooming’ and last-mile fulfilment are the three critical areas retailers must address. Showrooming refers to consumers treating a physical store as a showroom, trying on clothing or checking how an item looks and works in real life, before ordering the same item online.

Retailers which can successfully integrate the mobile web, apps and in-app targeting into their business operations and engagement strategies will set the stage for the seamless adoption of newer mobile technologies or add-ons, when required, Criteo said.
The research found:

· Six in 10 Singaporeans consider mobile devices to be their favourite shopping companion, with 95% having used their smartphones or tablets to browse online catalogues in the past month.

· More than half (54%) of consumers indicated that having the option to shop on their mobile devices has caused them to spend more than ever before, with four in five admitting to purchasing online on impulse.

· Travel-related products and apparel are the most popular online purchases, with each shopper purchasing across an average of 5.43 product categories.

· With nearly half of Singaporeans shopping on branded mobile apps at least once a week, and mobile shoppers likely to be heavy social media users in general, retailers must also become familiar with application-based advertising and messaging.

“Singapore is a truly cross-device market, where most consumers – especially Millennials – are using a combination of devices to shop. While a number still rely on PCs to make payments, mobile devices are always by our side as the one consistent factor in all elements of online and offline shopping,” said Alban Villani, Commercial Director, Southeast Asia, Criteo. “This reinforces what we’ve been telling retailers for some time – they can no longer target individuals on just one device. Rather, they will need to embrace technologies that deliver contextual creative experiences and messaging, to respond to individuals’ needs and desires in the moment, wherever they are and however they’re feeling.”

In Singapore, the high incidence of showrooming reinforces the importance of multichannel integration:

· To avoid crowds and queues, almost two-thirds of Singaporeans prefer to shop online during periods like the Great Singapore Sale.

· Half of local consumers also believe online deals during the Great Singapore Sale are better than in-store promotions.

· Even when visiting a physical store, six in 10 local shoppers are browsing similar products online and comparing prices to ensure they get the best deals.

· Seven in 10 (69%) consumers end up purchasing the same product or service online rather than offline.

· Physical stores still have an edge in engaging consumers who desire to touch or trial a product prior to purchase. However, this advantage is eroding as seven in 10 Singaporeans agree that augmented reality also allows them to ‘try’ an item and online players respond by adopting the technology to simulate real-world experiences.

“A few established online players are already using physical pop-up stores with exclusive collections and discounts to create a seamless online-to-offline customer experience. Conversely, physical retailers looking to retain and convert customers must start integrating online channels, especially mobile optimised sites or branded apps, and consider customer relationship management (CRM) data optimisation, to better engage customers before, during and after store visits,” said Villani.

To compete more effectively against international retailers, same-day or next-day order fulfilment should be a big focus for local retailers, who can work with specialised local last-mile delivery service providers.

· Singaporeans shop on both local and international sites. Seventy-eight percent buy from local sites because of delivery considerations – faster or cheaper domestic shipping and easier pickup of a locally-purchased product.

· Six in 10 would rather have their purchases delivered than collect them from a physical store.

“The research findings are pointing us to a future where offline and online shopping are no longer two separate business models. There will just be ‘shopping’ and it will be an integrated experience. If retailers turn to mobile as the chief enabler and successfully deliver such experiences, they will inevitably demand smaller stores as fulfilment gets facilitated directly from warehouses. Be it by offering better connectivity or relooking how retail space is allocated, local malls must also adjust to this new wave of change,” said Villani.

Interested?

Browse the full Criteo-commissioned Edelman Intelligence 2H16 research findings and analysis (PDF)

Dell and Alienware are running SITEX promotions

Dell and Alienware promotions at SITEX 2016 are as follows:
3

The latest premium XPS is the world’s smallest 13" laptop. Designed and built for premium performance, mobility and visual fidelity, this laptop comes with a virtually borderless InfinityEdge display. The latest model is powered by the new 7th Gen Intel Core i7 processor that offers more power and better battery life.	Source: Dell. The XPS 13 laptop.
SITEX Starting Price: S$1,799
SITEX Promotion: A Dell USB-C to VGA adapter is bundled with every purchase of the XPS 13 laptop.
1
Powered with the latest 7th Gen Intel Core i7 Processor, the Inspiron 13 5000 2in1 comes with a solid state drive (SSD, or flash) option, which provides longer battery life and better responsiveness. The sleek laptop offers a wide-angle Full HD (FHD) resolution display with True-life LED-Backlit Touch Display and with up to 8GB of dual-channel DDR4 memory. The lightweight laptop has a touchscreen option and allows users to switch easily between four different modes (tent, stand, laptop and tablet mode.	Source: Dell. The Inspiron 13 5000 2in1.
SITEX Starting Price: S$1,199
SITEX Promotion: The first 100 customers will receive a laser printer with every purchase of the Inspiron 13 5000 2-in-1.
Primed for virtual reality (VR), the Alienware Aurora R5 is a dual graphics-ready compact mid tower engineered with liquid cooling (optional) and tool-less access, so no tools are needed to access and upgrade the graphics card, hard drives, and memory. This desktop is powered with the 10 series NVIDIA graphics card – GeForce GTX 1070 for enhanced resolution and frame rates.	Source: Dell. The Alienware Aurora R5.
SITEX Starting Price: S$2,599
SITEX Promotion: For each purchase of the Alienware Aurora R5, customers will also receive one Dell AC411 Speaker System.

 
Interested?

SITEX runs from 26 to 27 November 2016, 11am to 9pm, at Singapore Expo Halls 5 and 6.