Lifestyle
5 best smartphones for vlogging
These days, you can do almost everything with your smartphone — this includes shooting vlogs!
Gone are the days of lugging around big video cameras and DSLRs; all you ever need can be found in the palm of your hands. While today’s capable technology allows you to shoot great quality photos and videos with phone cameras, it’s still a matter of finding the right one for your needs.
Before anything else, I’d like to point out that so many smartphones now have high specifications, but that’s not the only thing we considered for this list.
Here are my top picks for the best vlogging smartphones, depending on what type of vlogger you are:
Sony Xperia XZ Premium, if you’re a sucker for slow-motion shots
Aside from looking pretty sleek, the Xperia XZ Premium packs a punch in terms of video features. It has 960fps video recording, which means smoother slow-motion output — a pretty cool effect for your vlogs! This smartphone also has good image stabilization resulting in better handheld shots.
The Xperia XZ Premium is also one of the very few phones to have a 4K resolution display.
READ MORE: Sony Xperia XZ Premium review
LG G6, when you want more scenery in your videos
LG’s flagship is waterproof and shock-proof, which is great for all-around shooting. Whether it be a travel vlog on a mountain or at the beach, this smartphone can and will go the distance.
The best part? This dual-camera phone has wide-angled shooters so you can capture more scenery in your videos!
READ MORE: LG G6 review: Back to basics
HTC U11, if you’re very particular about audio
Based on our tests, the HTC U11 and the Google Pixel both take great photos and videos. However, the U11 won out because this particular smartphone is capable of 3D audio recording for clear audio no matter which direction the sound is coming from. Additionally, the U11 can zoom in and target a specific subject to capture specific audio — definitely a great feature for your video storytelling.
Bonus feature: The phone’s smooth, shiny back is not only pretty, it doubles as a selfie screen because it’s so reflective. Definitely great for checking your face on those lengthy video monologues.
READ MORE: HTC’s upcoming U11 might make brand relevant again
OPPO R11, when you always want to look your best on camera
OPPO has always been known for being the selfie expert, but they’ve outdone themselves this time. The R11 camera has a built-in live beauty mode for video — that means you’ll be looking fresh in videos anytime, anywhere. Adjust the filter level depending on your preference and never have a bad on-cam day ever again.
Moto Z2 Play, when you still prefer the feel of a real camera when shooting
For those who still enjoy the feel of holding a camera when shooting, the Moto Z2 Play may be the perfect smartphone shooter for you. The Z2 Play can be fitted with different mods, and one of them is the Hasselblad True Zoom — yes, from that famous camera company. Shoot like a real pro in a snap!
READ MORE: Moto Z2 Play Review: To mod or not to mod
SEE ALSO: 5 photo-editing apps you must download
[irp posts=”16848″ name=”5 waterproof flagship phones: No raining on this parade!”]
Entertainment
The Super Mario Galaxy Movie trailer shows first look at Yoshi
The premiere was also moved up by a few days.
As a fan of the Super Mario games, I’m still waiting patiently for the next 3D Mario title. In the meantime, we’ve got Mario in 3D to stave off the hunger. The Super Mario Galaxy Movie will premiere on April 1, and it just got a new trailer.
The Super Mario Galaxy Movie was announced quite some time ago, if the first film’s stinger wasn’t enough of a confirmation for you. As in that post-credits scene, Yoshi is set to make his debut. Now, the new trailer reveals the green dinosaur for the first time.
In the trailer, Mario and Luigi head to the Sand Kingdom to investigate a strange disturbance inside a pyramid. The disturbance turns out to be a scared Yoshi. What follows is a short montage of scenes from the movie but doesn’t reveal much of the connection between Yoshi and the movie’s story.
From the previous trailer, Bowser Jr. wants to claim the throne as the universe’s big baddie. It’s still unknown how Yoshi (and even Rosalina) connects to the overall plot.
Still, the trailer has a bunch of Easter eggs for fans of the franchise. For one, the Sand Kingdom is an area from the latest 3D Mario game, Super Mario Odyssey. Heading into the pyramid, you might also hear a subdued version of the “Underground Theme”. Then, when Yoshi finally appears, you’ll hear Super Mario World’s “Overworld Theme”.
The trailer also shows a peek at Birdo.
From the new trailer, The Super Mario Galaxy Movie will premiere a few days earlier on April 1. Previously, it was set to premiere on April 3.
SEE ALSO: Nintendo’s latest toy is Super Mario Wonder’s Talking Flower
Lifestyle
How a low-impact workout can turn your resolution into a habit
Indoor rowing is more approachable than you think
The best fitness habits are the ones that challenge your body without breaking it down. That’s why low-impact workouts tend to stick — they are effective yet kind to your body. They don’t leave you dreading the next session.
One of the most underrated examples of this is indoor rowing. If it’s something you’ve only seen at the gym, or never tried at all, then you’re in for a treat.
The machine can look intimidating but you’ll be surprised how approachable the workout actually is. And when you bring a rowing machine into your home, it can easily be a part of your daily rhythm.
Here’s why getting a rowing machine like the Merach NovaRow R50 can turn your fitness resolution into a habit you actually keep all year.
Low-impact, full body workout 
Just because indoor rowing is a low-impact workout, it doesn’t mean it’s low effort. Each stroke works your legs, core, back, arms, and shoulders in one smooth motion. You get cardio and a bit of strength without pounding on your joints.
That’s what makes it sustainable. Whether you’re just starting out or trying again, indoor rowing meets you where you are on your fitness journey and lets you build progress without wearing you down.
Comfort and stability lead to consistency
There aren’t many workouts where you get to sit down, and that’s the best part about rowing. The Merach NovaRow R50 features an ergonomic, padded seat that won’t make your butt sore after a long session.
Compared to its more expensive counterparts, it also comes with wider foot straps so your feet stay locked in place. Every stroke feels steady and controlled.
Exercise that feels like an experience
Motivation doesn’t come from discipline alone. When workouts are immersive, they stop feeling like obligations.
Built into the free Merach app are guided classes, scenic rows, and games. When you wake up knowing your exercise is going to be fun instead of torture, your resolution can easily develop into a habit that you look forward to.
Better than a gym membership
One sale the Merach NovaRow R50 is $529.99, which is a fraction of what many people pay for a full year at the gym. Unlike a membership, it’s a one time investment that will call to you because it’s already there at home.
Whether it’s raining, freezing, or scorching outside, your new routine will not be dependent on weather conditions. Your habit is set up and ready for you.
At the end of the day, turning a fitness resolution into a lasting habit will always feel like a challenge. But it doesn’t need to be. It’s achievable if you set yourself up with something that fits your budget, lifestyle, and schedule.
Get the Merach R50 on Amazon or if you want an additional 10% discount, use our code GADGET on merachfit.com
SEE ALSO: Trade doomscrolling for these 12 intentional New Year’s resolutions and side quests
Entertainment
He-Man returns in live-action Masters of the Universe
Opens in Philippine cinemas in June 2026
Legendary hero He-Man is set to return to the big screen in the live-action film Masters of the Universe. The film arrives in Philippine cinemas in June 2026.
Nicholas Galitzine stars as Prince Adam. He returns to his home world of Eternia after 15 years to find it under the rule of the evil Skeletor, played by Jared Leto. To save his family and his world, Adam must reclaim the Sword of Power and embrace his destiny as He-Man.
Directed by Travis Knight, the film also stars Camila Mendes as Teela and Idris Elba as Duncan, also known as Man-At-Arms. The cast includes Alison Brie, James Purefoy, Morena Baccarin, Jóhannes Haukur Jóhannesson, and Charlotte Riley, with Kristin Wiig providing the voice of Roboto.
Masters of the Universe opens in Philippine cinemas in June 2026.
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