Computers

Cybersecurity threats to lookout for in 2021 and beyond

Threats to intelligent edge computing and 5G-enabled devices will increase

Illustration/Sketchify via Canva

Published

January 19, 2021

Kenrick Buduan

Researchers from Fortinet have identified several cybersecurity threats for 2021 that will greatly impact both the consumer and enterprise sector. By 2021, cybersecurity threats on intelligent edge computing and 5G-enabled devices will double as most companies continue to implement remote working schemes.

A new wave of cybersecurity threats will also arise due to advances in computing. These threats have the potential to disrupt a large number of businesses and consumers in the future. Thus, preparation and eventual mitigation are key to stemming the potential disruption by these threats.

Threats on the intelligent edge are on the rise

Intelligent edge computing is more popular than ever thanks to remote work with most employees making use of personal and interconnected devices to access the company network. However, intelligent edge computing presents new threats as cybercriminals exploit these “edges” (i.e. connected IoTs, personal devices) thanks to a decentralized approach by companies.

These threats can run the gamut from ransomware to malware. As intelligent edge computing booms, cybercriminals can specifically target edge devices with malware that could disrupt corporate networks. They can design malware that could understand usage patterns, adapt accordingly, and attack networks with little to no risk of suspicion. Moreover, sophisticated malware may spread through networks to propagate additional attack commands or disrupt more networks and devices.

Ransomware on the rise

This 2021, consumers and businesses should be more concerned with social engineering-based attacks and ransomware. One of the most common forms of social engineering-based attacks is phishing. In phishing, cybercriminals send fake emails supposedly from legitimate entities coercing users into sending their personal information. For example, a user may receive a fake bank email notice warning of impending account closure but contains malicious links instead.

Illustration/Sketchify via Canva

These attacks may even lock users from their personal data, holding them hostage until they pay a hefty amount of cash. Ransomware attacks do just that, affecting not only consumers but also the enterprise sector. As more businesses rely on edge devices for critical operations, the potential for a future ransomware attack rises significantly posing more risks than ever before.

Human lives are also at stake with ransomware attacks that blow out of control. An example of this happened last year when several hospitals across the US were hit by a variant of the Ryuk ransomware. As a result, several hospitals have to transfer their patients to other facilities since their systems cannot perform patient monitoring and other critical operations.

Advances in crypto mining and attacks on satellite-based networks

Bringing artificial intelligence and machine learning could also open up advances in crypto mining. While not inherently bad, cybercriminals can infect consumer devices more easily and gain access to system resources. When abused, crypto mining could potentially impact any device and affect users’ experience.

Meanwhile, network operators should prepare for more advanced attacks as they become reliant on satellite-based systems. Cybercriminals could infect a satellite base station and propagate malware to connected devices. Satellite-based networks could become a conduit for distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks in this way.

As an example, a cybercriminal could hijack a base station and inject scripts into other devices. In turn, infected devices could run malicious commands that could disrupt the connection of other networks.

Quantum computing, preparing for present and future threats

Quantum computers are the next big thing in computing, relying on qubits instead of the traditional binary bit present in all devices today. Research in quantum computing has made significant progress over the years, with working quantum computers not too far on the horizon.

Quantum computers, however, could also pose a new problem in the future. In the future, these can break traditional encryption algorithms rendering encryption moot. Fortinet advises businesses to adapt accordingly by using the principles of crypto agility.

Illustration/Sketchify via Canva

In the meantime, businesses can readily adapt to these threats through a careful combination of technology, people, training, and partnerships. Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) are also key technologies for preparing against and mitigating future cybersecurity threats. Businesses can train AI to spot attack patterns and identify threats even before they become a reality.

Partnerships are also vital in stemming the tide against cybercriminals. The enterprise sector, for example, could partner with law enforcement agencies for information sharing and dismantling of malicious networks.

Cybersecurity threats are here to stay

Connected devices have transformed society by enabling instant communication and richer user experiences. However, it also opens up new threats from cybercriminals willing to exploit and gather sensitive data.

There’s an old adage that says that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. The same adage applies all the more in cybersecurity. Threats are here to stay, so consumers and businesses should prepare and mitigate potential impacts as much as possible. Thankfully, it is easy to stay safe and protected by following best practices.

Computers

Apple unveils new iMac with M6 chip

M6 brings faster AI performance

Published

October 27, 2026

GadgetMatch

Apple has unveiled its new iMac powered by the M6 chip, bringing faster performance, enhanced on-device AI capabilities, and improved connectivity to its all-in-one desktop computer.

Announced on October 27, the new iMac retains its slim design and 24-inch display while introducing hardware upgrades for everyday productivity, creative workflows, and AI-powered applications.

Apple claims the M6-powered iMac delivers up to 18 times faster performance than the most popular Intel-based iMac. It also offers up to five times faster on-device AI performance than the previous-generation M4 model.

The new iMac comes in seven colors: blue, green, pink, yellow, purple, orange, and silver.

M6 brings faster performance and AI capabilities

The new iMac features Apple’s M6 chip, with configurations offering either a 10-core CPU and 10-core GPU or a 12-core CPU and 12-core GPU.

The 12-core CPU delivers improved performance for everyday applications, multitasking, and demanding workloads. Meanwhile, the GPU now features Neural Accelerators in every core to accelerate AI processing and graphics-intensive tasks.

Apple claims the new iMac delivers up to twice the graphics performance of the M4 model. Users can expect improvements in photo editing, video production, and gaming, including titles that use ray tracing.

The M6 also features a Dual 16-core Neural Engine, which delivers up to twice the AI computing performance of the previous generation. Combined with memory bandwidth of up to 170GB/s, the chip can handle demanding on-device AI workloads, including running large language models.

Apple highlights several performance improvements over previous generations:

Up to 2.5 times faster performance in Microsoft Excel compared to the M1 iMac.
Up to 3.3 times faster graphics performance in applications such as Affinity compared to the M1 iMac.
Up to 12 times faster on-device AI prompt processing in LM Studio compared to the M1 iMac.
Up to twice the gaming performance with ray tracing compared to the M4 iMac.

These improvements make the iMac a more capable desktop for professionals, students, and creators who need additional computing power without moving to a separate desktop tower.

A desktop built for AI

Apple is positioning the new iMac as a platform for its expanding AI ecosystem.

Running macOS 27, the desktop supports Apple Intelligence features and Siri AI, Apple’s next-generation assistant. Users can ask questions, search for information across their messages and emails, and perform actions across supported applications.

Siri AI is also integrated into Spotlight, allowing users to search for information and ask follow-up questions. Visual Intelligence lets users interact with content on their screen, whether it’s a chart in a spreadsheet or an image in a browser.

Other AI-powered features extend to everyday applications. Safari can automatically organize tabs into topics and notify users about website changes, including product restocks and price drops. Users can also create Shortcuts automations by describing what they want to accomplish.

For creative professionals, Apple Intelligence adds tools for photo editing and other productivity tasks. The iMac also supports third-party AI applications optimized for Apple silicon, including LM Studio and Topaz Studio.

Apple says these capabilities allow users to run supported AI workloads locally, helping preserve privacy by processing certain tasks directly on the device.

Siri AI is available in beta in macOS 27.2, with language and regional availability restrictions applying to some Apple Intelligence features.

24-inch 4.5K Retina display

The new iMac retains its 24-inch 4.5K Retina display, which offers a resolution of 4,480 x 2,520 pixels and 500 nits of brightness.

The display supports the P3 wide color gamut and more than one billion colors, making it suitable for photo editing, video production, and everyday entertainment.

Apple also offers an optional nano-texture display finish on supported configurations to reduce reflections and glare in challenging lighting conditions.

For video calls, the iMac features a 12-megapixel Center Stage camera with Desk View. Its three-microphone array and six-speaker sound system deliver an integrated audiovisual setup without requiring additional peripherals.

The speakers feature force-cancelling woofers and tweeters, with support for Spatial Audio and Dolby Atmos.

Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, and faster storage

Connectivity receives an upgrade with Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6.

The higher-end configuration can also be equipped with 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet, offering up to 2.5 times faster wired connectivity than the previous generation.

Apple claims the new iMac delivers up to twice the SSD read and write performance of its predecessor, helping applications launch faster and large files load more quickly.

Port availability depends on the configuration. The higher-end model includes four Thunderbolt 4 ports, allowing users to connect external storage, docks, and other accessories.

The iMac also supports up to two external 6K displays, providing additional screen space for demanding workflows.

Apple continues to bundle color-matched accessories with the desktop. Depending on the configuration, these include a Magic Keyboard with Touch ID and either a Magic Mouse or Magic Trackpad. The accessories feature USB-C charging ports.

macOS 27 and sustainability

The new iMac runs macOS 27, which brings refinements to the Liquid Glass interface, system performance, and search.

Users can adjust the transparency of Liquid Glass through a new setting, choosing an appearance that ranges from clearer to more tinted. Apple has also refined app icons and other interface elements.

The iMac continues Apple’s sustainability efforts. Its stand uses 100 percent recycled aluminum, while its magnets use 100 percent recycled rare earth elements. Apple-designed printed circuit boards also use 100 percent recycled gold plating and tin solder.

Apple says the new iMac is manufactured using renewable electricity across its supply chain. The company continues working toward its goal of becoming carbon neutral across its entire footprint by 2030.

iMac with M6 pricing and availability

In the United States, the new iMac with M6 starts at US$1,499 for the configuration with a 10-core CPU and 10-core GPU. Education pricing starts at US$1,449.

The higher-end configuration, featuring a 12-core CPU and 12-core GPU, starts at US$1,699, with education pricing starting at US$1,599.

Pre-orders in the United States and 34 other countries and regions begin on October 28, 2026. Availability starts November 6.

In the Philippines, the new iMac with M6 starts at PHP 109,990 for the 10-core CPU and 10-core GPU configuration. Eligible students and educators can purchase it for PHP 105,990.

The higher-end configuration with a 12-core CPU and 12-core GPU starts at PHP 124,990, with education pricing at PHP 117,990.

Apple says the new iMac will be available soon through the Philippine Apple Store online and Apple Authorized Resellers. Local availability dates have yet to be announced.

In Singapore, the new iMac starts at SGD 2,099 for the 10-core CPU and 10-core GPU configuration, with education pricing at SGD 2,029.

The 12-core CPU and 12-core GPU configuration starts at SGD 2,399, with education pricing at SGD 2,259. Pre-orders in Singapore begin on October 29, with availability starting November 6.

Computers

Lenovo tech behind DreamWorks Animation hit ‘Forgotten Island’

Partnership powers modern demands of animation production

Published

October 2, 2026

GadgetMatch

DreamWorks Animation’s Forgotten Island has definitely become a big screen hit, debuting with a 100% Rotten Tomatoes score and being well received particularly by a large Filipino fanbase.

And behind the movie is DreamWorks Animation’s partnership with tech giant, Lenovo. The collaboration is helping power the former’s production slate, including the studio’s animated feature inspired by Filipino culture, mythology, and experiences.

In 2025, DreamWorks expanded its relationship with Lenovo by naming the company its preferred compute services, workstation, and solutions provider.

Such partnership brings together Lenovo workstations, high-performance infrastructure, data center technology, and services to support the demanding needs of modern animation production.

It is a collaboration that builds on years of work between the two companies. DreamWorks has used Lenovo workstations as part of workflows across the studio.

Lenovo infrastructure has also supported the large-scale computing requirements involved in creating animated worlds and characters.

Still in cinemas, Forgotten Island follows lifelong best friends Jo and Raissa, voiced by Grammy and Academy Award winner H.E.R. and Filipino actress Liza Soberano.

As the two prepare to take different paths after high school, they unexpectedly find themselves transported to Nakali, a fantastical island populated by magical and mythological creatures rooted in stories from their Filipino families.

The film is written and directed by Academy Award nominee Joel Crawford and Januel Mercado and produced by Academy Award nominee Mark Swift, the filmmaking team behind Puss in Boots: The Last Wish.

Its voice cast also includes Dave Franco, Jenny Slate, Manny Jacinto, Dolly de Leon, Jo Koy, Ronny Chieng, and Lea Salonga.

Computers

ROG brings out the ultra-stylish G1000 gaming desktop

Plus, here’s a couple of sleek transport options from ROG.

Published

September 29, 2026

Luigi Leonardo

Despite how much higher prices are going today, there are still so many options if you want a PC for yourself. However, only a handful of brands will offer you quite as much style doing so as ASUS. Today, ROG has revealed the new G1000 gaming desktop.

For the first time ever in a prebuilt PC, the ROG G1000 comes with a built-in AniMe Holo, a holographic fan with customizable visuals using Armoury Crate and Aura Sync. Additionally, the holographic fan is inside its own chamber, preventing it from interfering with the main system. Instead, the desktop uses the ROG Thermal Atrium, which uses three fans to channel fresh air through a 420mm AIO liquid cooler.

Now, the ROG G1000 isn’t just a pretty face. Inside, the 104L desktop comes with a Ryzen 7 9800X3D processor. It also comes equipped with the ROG Astral GeForce RTX 5080, up to 128GB DDR5 memory, and 1TB SSD for storage. New purchases will also come with a gaming keyboard and mouse, a year of Microsoft 365 Basic, Office Home 2024, and an ASUS No. 1 Quality and Service warranty.

The ROG G1000 will be available from ROG Exclusive Stores and will start at PhP 399,995.

Celebrating ROG at 20

Besides the new desktop, ROG is also launching a couple of storage and transport options for your prized gaming possessions. The ROG SLASH Backpack Edition 20 is a sleek backpack that can fit an 18-inch laptop with enough room for peripherals and accessories. It also comes with a custom FIDLOCK Magnetic quick-release, black-and-translucent-gold buckle. It will be available next quarter for PhP 10,995.

Meanwhile, the ROG SLASH Hard-Case Luggage Edition 20 is designed specifically for transporting your hard-earned gaming devices. The light-but-durable aluminum frame comes with a specialized compartment for laptops, handhelds, and accessories. It also has removalbe foam dividers to better customize the case for your needs. Finally, it has 360-degree silent skate wheels for smoother rolling. The luggage will be available starting next quarter for PhP 15,995.