New POCO mid-range phones land in Singapore

POCO, a leading technology brand among young tech enthusiasts, has launched the POCO M8 5G and POCO M8 Pro 5G, marking a major evolution of POCO M Series into the mid-range segment while bringing flagship-inspired 5G entertainment features to all users.

"Following our entry into the premium market with F8 Series, POCO M Series is taking another bold step with a full-scale upgrade to the next level," said Kang Lou, Senior Product Marketing Manager and spokesperson at POCO Global.

"Combining portability, high-quality audiovisuals, long-lasting battery life, and exceptional durability, the M Series is designed to deliver exceptional entertainment experiences for everyday users."

Leading the POCO M8 Series, the POCO M8 Pro 5G brings flagship-level experiences to the mid-range segment. Major upgrades over the previous model equivalent can be seen across the battery, display, speakers, and camera system. 

Built for uninterrupted entertainment, the POCO M8 Pro 5G features a flagship-level 6,500 mAh (typ) silicon-carbon battery with up to a 6-year lifespan² for reliable, long-lasting power. The advanced POCO battery management system intelligently optimises charging efficiency across daily routines, enabling longer battery life, faster charging, and improved safety.

100 W HyperCharge is supported, enabling the battery to reach 100% in 40 minutes⁴, and with up to 22.5 W reverse charging⁵, so the device can double as a power bank for essential accessories on the go. 

On the entertainment front, the POCO M8 Pro 5G sports a 6.83" 1.5 K CrystalRes Flow AMOLED display for clear visuals. Enhanced by advanced luminous materials and Sunlight display 4.0, it reaches a peak brightness of 3,200 nits⁶, ensuring clear, comfortable viewing even in direct sunlight. For vibrant visuals, POCO M8 Pro 5G supports Dolby Vision and HDR10+, while TÜV Rheinland-certified 3,840 Hz high-frequency pulse width modulation (PWM) dimming and direct current (DC) dimming reduce eye strain for long sessions. 

With a high touch sampling rate, the device also offers ultra-responsive, precise control. 

Dual 1115F speakers deliver rich, balanced 3D sound, enhanced by Dual Gold Hi-Res Audio and Dolby Atmos. A 400% volume boost⁷ ensures clear, powerful audio, even outdoors.

The POCO M8 Pro 5G is available in three colours (Black, Green, Silver) and two variants (8 GB + 256 GB, 12 GB + 512 GB).

The POCO M8 5G redefines design expectations in its segment with an ultra-slim 7.35 mm profile and a 178 g body,¹⁵ making it the thinnest smartphone in the POCO M Series. The floating deco and dual-curved body are part of a design that stands out in its class.

Beyond appearance, POCO M8 5G is engineered to endure. The device has passed the SGS Comprehensive Shock and Drop-resistance test,²¹ undergoing six series of rigorous quality tests. In addition, the IP 66 dust and water resistance rating¹⁸ makes POCO M8 5G resilient against spills, splashes, and dust exposure, while Wet touch technology 2.0 keeps every touch responsive even in wet conditions.

The POCO M8 5G also has a sunlight-friendly display, dual speakers, exceptional durability, and a silicon-carbon battery. The phone is available in three colours (Black, Green, Silver) and two variants (8 GB + 256 GB, 8 GB + 512 GB). 

Details

Model	Variant	Recommended retail price (S$)	Early bird price (S$) From January 8 to 18
POCO M8 Pro	8 GB + 256 GB	389	369
	12 GB + 512 GB	449	429
POCO M8	8 GB + 256 GB	329	299
	8 GB + 512 GB	359	329

From now to January 18, 2026, consumers can enjoy early bird prices when they purchase the: 

• POCO M8 Pro 5G on mi.com, and its Shopee and Lazada stores.
• POCO M8 5G on mi.com and its Lazada store. The phone will be available on Shopee from 8 pm, January 14, 2026. 

² Based on theoretical calculations tested by POCO Internal Labs, where daily user habits were simulated (one full charge and discharge every 1.5 days). Over 80% of the battery's capacity is retained after 1,600 complete charge cycles, which corresponds to over 6 years of usage. Actual results may vary depending on testing conditions and usage habits.

⁴ Charging data tested by POCO Internal Labs, actual results may vary. Forty minutes to 100% tested under top speed mode, using the in-box 100 W charger under a 25°C room-temperature environment with the screen off.

⁵ Supports up to 22.5 W wired reverse charging, compatible with devices verified through POCO labs testing.

⁶ Data obtained from POCO Internal Labs. Actual results may vary depending on the testing environment and software version. Please refer to the actual experience.

⁷ 400% volume compared to the same model at 100% volume. This feature only applies to media sounds, ringtones, and notification sounds, not alarms. Only available in speaker mode, not with headphones. Volume data tested by POCO Internal Labs. Actual effects may vary due to software and scenarios. Please refer to your actual experience.

⁸ Data tested based on AnTuTu v11.0.3 by POCO Internal Labs. Actual results may vary.

⁹ Data tested by POCO Internal Labs. Actual results may vary.

¹¹ Availability of Xiaomi HyperOS features, apps, and services may vary depending on software version and product model.

¹² Results are for illustrative purposes only and may vary. Check responses. Setup required. Compatibility and availability vary. 18+. 

¹³ Available on select devices and internet connection required. Works on compatible apps and surfaces. Results may vary depending on visual matches. Check responses for accuracy.

¹⁴ Availability of AI features may vary based on region. Please check your local website for more information.

¹⁵ Data regarding dimensions and weight tested by POCO Internal Labs. Actual results may vary.

¹⁶ POCO M8 Pro 5G features Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 cover glass and other cover glass with equivalent or higher durability. Please refer to the actual products.

¹⁷ The product has obtained SGS 5 stars Premium Performance Certification, indicating that it meets the SGS technical standards for drop resistance, bending resistance, and compression resistance. As a precision electronics product, there is still a risk of damage if the phone falls. Please be careful to avoid drops or collisions.

¹⁸ The device is certified to be splash and dust resistant exclusively under specific laboratory conditions, not corresponding to normal use conditions. The warranty does not cover liquid damage caused by conditions other than those used in testing. Ingress protection may deteriorate due to wear and tear, physical damage, or disassembly required for repair. For more information, please see the official website.

¹⁹ The refresh rate can be adjusted to up to 120 Hz for supported apps.

²⁰ Three hundred percent volume compared to the same model at 100% volume. This feature only applies to media sounds, ringtones, and notification sounds, not alarms. Only available in speaker mode, not with headphones. Volume data tested by POCO Internal Labs. Actual effects may vary due to software and scenarios. Please refer to your actual experience.

²¹ The product has passed the SGS Comprehensive Shock & Drop-resistance test; the associated report number is SUER250700093071. 

²³ Data tested based on AnTuTu v11.0.0 by POCO Internal Labs. Actual results may vary.

²⁴ Additional random access memory (RAM) will occupy a corresponding amount of read-only memory (ROM) storage. Memory extension is available only when there is sufficient storage space on your device. Actual extension of RAM storage capacity varies across different models.

²⁵ The microSD card for expandable storage is sold separately; please refer to the actual use.

Lunar New Year specials at Pacific Emporium, Singapore

Source: Pan Pacific Singapore. Enjoy a bountiful feast at Pacific Emporium.

The culinary team at Pacific Emporium has crafted a five-course, family-style Bountiful set menu.

Guests can indulge in crispy chicken cutlet, accompanied by a green mango salad and sweet chilli sauce; deep-fried sea perch, served with a sweet and spicy ginger soy sauce, and wok-fried broccolini with garlic among other hearty dishes that reflect the rich flavours of the season. 

Details

Bountiful set menu
16 and 17 February 2026
Dinner | 5 pm – 10 pm
S$208++ per set menu for four persons

Prices quoted are in Singapore dollars, and are subject to service charge and prevailing government taxes. 

For reservations, call +65 6826 8240 or email dining.ppsin@panpacific.com

Explore

Read more about Chinese New Year festivities at Pan Pacific Singapore.

Chinese New Year at Edge 

Hashtags: #PanPacificSingapore, #PacificEmporiumSG, #ShareYourMoment 

How public priorities shifted in APAC in 2025

Ipsos has released Ipsos 2025 Year in Review, a roundup of the year that reflects where public attention shifted, what mattered most and how national conversations evolved across technology, governance, economic conditions and social change. 

Gillian Guerin, Regional Director, Marcom APAC, Ipsos, shared that Australia focused on AI regulation and youth exposure to technology. "Sixty-seven percent say AI products and services make them nervous, the highest across 30 countries. The upcoming social media ban for under-16s also influenced national discussion on digital wellbeing," she noted.

New Zealand, on the other hand, remained focused on inflation, with 60% naming it the top issue and government performance in managing national issues falling to 4.2 out of 10, its lowest score since 2017. 

India recorded a rise in attention to mental wellbeing, with 73% thinking about it often. This figure is up from 58% in 2024.  

"In Thailand, corruption was the top concern at 51%, while concern about military conflict remained significant at 41%. Earlier in the year, concern about military conflict rose in response to the border disputes with Cambodia before easing as domestic government issues returned to the forefront," Guerin said. 

"Malaysia focused on immigration pressures, with 90% saying there are too many immigrants, the highest across 38 countries." 

People in Singapore are confident about where the country is headed and in the quality of its public services, Guerin added, sharing that in the What Worries the World survey by Ipsos, 77% of Singaporeans said their country is headed in the right direction. And when comparing today's living conditions against what it was like 50 years ago, people are more likely to feel that healthcare and education (84% and 76% respectively) are better today. 

"Despite this, and high economic growth the city state has experienced in the last five decades, Singaporeans are still more likely to say they would rather have been born in 1975 than 2025 (34% vs 30%)," she added.

Other highlights include:

- Japan’s appointment of its first female prime minister influenced expectations for gender representation. However, just 19% believe gender equality will progress in the next five years. 

- South Koreans continued to support globalisation (77%) and prefer domestic products (76%). 

- Indonesia experienced a 9.2-point decline in consumer confidence and shifts in perceptions of national economy over the year. 

- China accelerated AI integration. Over nine in 10 (91% ) said AI has a positive impact.

Singapore Motorshow to showcase 37 automotive brands over 21,000 sq m

Singapore Motorshow 2026 returns from 8 to 11 January 2026 at the Suntec Singapore Convention & Exhibition Centre. This year’s edition spans 21,000 sq m of exhibition space across four levels, Levels 3, 4, 6, and the Level 1 Convention Centre atrium. 

Source: Singapore Motorshow 2026. Event poster.

More than 95% of the participating exhibitors at the Singapore Motorshow 2026 will be showcasing electric and hybrid vehicles, reflecting the industry’s accelerating shift toward sustainable mobility and aligning with Singapore’s vision of 100% cleaner energy vehicles by 2040. 

There will be a diverse range of mass-market electric models, premium hybrids, and performance electric vehicles (EVs). The EV lineup features Audi, AVATR, BMW, BYD, DEEPAL, Dongfeng, Forland, GAC, Honda, Hongqi, Hyundai, iCaur, IM Motors, Jaecoo, KIA, Leapmotor, Lexus, Maxus, Mazda, Mercedes-Benz, MG, MINI, NIO, Nissan, Omoda, ORA, Proton e.MAS, smart, Subaru, Suzuki, Toyota, Volvo, XPENG, and Zeekr.

Meanwhile, look out for hybrid vehicles from Yangwang and Denza.  

Car launches

Expect new models from Audi, AVATR, BMW, BYD, DEEPAL, Denza, Dongfeng, Forland, GAC, Honda, Honda Bikes, Hongqi, Hyundai, iCaur, Jaecoo, KIA, Leapmotor, Lexus, Maxus, Mazda, Mercedes-Benz, MG, MINI, NIO, Nissan, ORA, Proton e.MAS, Subaru, Suzuki, Toyota, Volvo, XPENG, Yangwang and Zeekr.

Notably, Hongqi will make its official debut at the Singapore Motorshow 2026 with Eurokars Group, marking the brand’s entry into the Singapore market. Hongqi's launch will spotlight the E-HS9, the company's flagship electric sports utility vehicle (SUV), alongside a showcase of the ultra-luxury Guoli and Guoya models. 

Visitors stand a chance to win exclusive E-HS9 model cars by placing Hongqi’s iconic red flags on a Singapore map installation at the booth.

Meet the stars 

A number of Mediacorp celebrities will be on the showfloor for photo opportunities, including Elvin Ng, Paige Chua, Ayden Sng, Herman Keh, Cheryl Chou, Denise Camillia Tan, Seow Sin Nee, as well as Dennis Chew and Xixi Lim from ENCORE, as well as Kym Ng and Desmond Ng from Last but Not Least.  

Lucky draw

The highlight this year is the all-electric Dongfeng Box — Singapore’s best-selling electric hatchback — as the grand prize*. The Dongfeng Box reflects Volt Auto’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and making electric driving accessible to all. Featuring frameless doors, an automatic parking system, a 12.8" floating central control screen, and customisable ambient lighting, it balances style and functionality perfectly.

The lucky draw will be held on the final day of Singapore Motorshow 2026, 11 January 2026, at 9 pm. The winner will be announced on the Singapore Motorshow 2026 Facebook, Instagram and website on 21 January 2026.  

InTrigg Hobbies Slot Car Racing Challenge (Level 6)

Experience high-speed fun at the Singapore Motorshow 2026 with the free InTrigg Hobbies Slot Car Racing Challenge, where participants step up to the controller and race to complete 20 laps on a custom 1:32 scale slot car circuit for the daily top spot. Participation is free for all Singapore Motorshow 2026 visitors, simply present a same-day valid entrance ticket to register and enjoy one complimentary race per ticket, which includes a practice run followed by one official timed race.

Open to all ages, the challenge brings together real racing excitement and friendly competition, with live leaderboard updates running throughout the day. Results will be announced on @sgmotorshow on Instagram, and race winners will be contacted thereafter. 

Forland

​​Level 6 hosts the Forland booth, where visitors can try their hand at winning an exclusive travel getaway (available in limited quantities). This offer provides attendees with the opportunity to explore one of Asia’s most iconic cultural festivals in a renowned coastal city.

Lexus  

At the Lexus booth on Level 4, visitors can look forward to the Lexus Takumi Craftsmanship Zone, an exclusive lounge for Lexus customers, and light refreshments. Guests can also enjoy a playful Lexus mini golf game, adding a fun touch to the overall luxury experience. 

*The prize vehicle includes ARF but excludes COE or additional fees. Terms and conditions apply, and model colours may vary from the prize shown.

Celebrate abundance at the Edge

Source: Pan Pacific Singapore. Edge’s selection of Lunar New Year roasts, premium seafood, yusheng, cakes, and kuehs. 

Usher in a bountiful year of the horse with a lavish array of signature Lunar New Year favourites at Edge in Pan Pacific Singapore. 

Executive Chef Andy Oh and his culinary team invite guests to welcome prosperity, good fortune, and joyful new beginnings with Edge’s do-it-yourself lohei (yusheng), complemented by delicacies such as such as tiger prawn, eight treasure free-range chicken, wild-caught seabass, braised premium seafood treasure pot, wok-fried XO sauce baby asparagus with lotus root, wolfberries and sweet peas, and more.

Details

Edge’s Lunar New Year buffet is available from 23 January until 3 March 2026. View the menu at https://www.menu-ppsin.panpacific.com/edge-lny-2026

Lunar New Year lunch 
23 January – 14 February 2026 
12 pm – 2:30 pm
Mondays to Thursdays: S$72++ | Fridays and Saturdays: S$88++
Includes free-flow soft drinks

19 February – 3 March 2026
Mondays to Fridays: 12 pm – 2:30 pm | Saturdays: 12 pm – 3 pm
Adult: S$88++
Includes free-flow soft drinks

Lunar New Year dinner (Except 16, 17 and 18 February 2026)
6 pm – 10 pm
Adult: S$118++*

Lunar New Year Sunday brunch
25 January - 1 March 2026 (Sundays)
12 pm – 3:30 pm
S$118++* | S$178++**

Lunar New Year’s Eve lunch
16 February 2026
12 pm – 3 pm
Adult: S$128++* | S$158++***

Lunar New Year’s Eve dinner
16 February 2026
6 pm – 10 pm
Adult: S$168++* | S$198++***

Lunar New Year Days One & Two lunch
17 and 18 February 2026
12 pm – 3 pm
Adult: S$128++* | S$158++***

Lunar New Year Days One & Two dinner
17 and 18 February 2026
6 pm – 10 pm
Adult: S$168++* | S$198++***

Prices quoted are in Singapore dollars, and are subject to service charge and prevailing government taxes. 

For reservations, call +65 6826 8240 or email dining.ppsin@panpacific.com 

Explore

Read more about Chinese New Year festivities at Pan Pacific Singapore.

Welcome the year of the horse at Pacific Emporium

Hashtags: #PanPacificSingapore, #EdgeSG, #ShareYourMoment

*Inclusive of free flow of chilled juices and soft drinks 

**Beverage package: Inclusive of free flow of Taittinger Brut Réserve Champagne, Tiger Beer, house red wine, house white wine, a selection of house spirits, cocktails, chilled juices, and soft drinks

***Beverage package: Inclusive of free flow of Tiger Beer, house red wine, house white wine, chilled juices, and soft drinks

Relax in New South Wales waters

New South Wales invites visitors to cool off in nature's most beautiful settings during the Australian summer. 

Coastal classics and ocean pools

More than 100 ocean pools sparkle along the NSW coast. There's Bogey Hole in Newcastle, NSW's oldest rock pool. Hand-carved out of the rock platform in 1819, this heritage-listed gem offers dramatic views and a refreshing dip.

Source: Destination NSW. The Bermagui Blue Pool at the Sapphire Coast.

In the Sawtell and ECO-certified destination Coffs Coast area, the Sawtell Memorial Rockpool is a beautiful spot with its natural rock bar edge.  

Another showstopping ocean pool experience is to be had at the Blowhole Point Ocean Pool in Kiama. Located by the Kiama Blowhole, this pool offers calm waters and amazing coastal views.  

Further south at the Sapphire Coast, the spectacular Bermagui Blue Pool is a natural rock pool with turquoise waters and sweeping coastal vistas. 

Waterfalls and natural pools

In the Southern Highlands, luxuriate in the natural pools at Bargo State Conservation Area, where swimming spots at Little River and Moore Creek offer refreshing bushland escapes.

Alternatively, head to the ECO-certified Blue Mountains, which boasts the Blue Pool in Glenbrook* and the Victoria Falls waterhole.  

Unicorn Falls in the Tweed region in the north is another hidden gem with a serene swimming opportunity. 

Inland escapes

Head inland for thermal pools and hidden swim spots surrounded by rugged bush and epic scenery.

The Yarrangobilly Caves Thermal Pool in Kosciuszko National Park is a year-round 27^o C favourite fed by a natural spring. Swim surrounded by the alpine scenery and limestone caves of the Snowy Mountains.

Or visit Sofala near Bathurst and try your luck panning for gold dust in the Turon River - and if fortune doesn't strike, you can still enjoy fishing and swimming.

Explore 

Stay safe and well in New South Wales with:  

Travel information: Health & safety | Visit NSW

Waterfall safety | NSW National Parks

*Check conditions with the National Parks Information Centre at the Glenbrook Park Entrance before swimming.