Philippines

13 Reasons Why I keep coming back to an iPhone

More than just underpowered phone specs

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A decade ago, I used to be a big hater of iPhones. Not until a year after, when I finally held in my hands a second-hand white iPhone 4S as a gift from my mom. I enjoyed using it and my (baseless) hatred slowly faded away.

(pardon my grammatical lapses as I was just a lame spec-obsessed 14-year-old boy)

From non-stop playing of Temple Run, Subway Surfers, Flappy Bird, and 2048 for hours, all the way to enjoying that single iPhone camera, I can say I’ve truly embraced the iPhone and iOS system from 2013 until 2016.

iPhone 6 Plus vs iPhone XS Max

And then I switched back to an Android (particularly the Samsung Galaxy Note5). It lasted less than a year because of display and motherboard issues. That’s when I came back to an iPhone 6 Plus from 2017 up until I joined GadgetMatch in 2018.

When I entered the team, I was able to test several phones and even dared to switch to a new brand of Android phone for a month. But still, I kept coming back to an iPhone.

Ten years apart from my hate tweet, here I am still using an iPhone as my primary phone — both for work and play. And if you’re planning to invest your hard-earned money on a shiny new iPhone, Power Mac Center in the Philippines offers a better way on how you can upcycle and trade your old phone into a new iPhone with their ‘UpTrade’ program.

UpTrade? What’s that even?

The UpTrade program by Power Mac Center and CompAsia gives potential new iPhone users the chance to trade their existing and/or old phones (regardless of any brand). After thorough inspection and computation, it will be converted into store credits which will then be used to purchase a new iPhone.

It’s not even limited to old iPhones and smartphones as you can also trade-in your Apple Watch, MacBooks, iPads, and even non-Apple tablets on the line.

Why UpTrade now?

Currently, Power Mac Center is hosting the second leg of its UpTrade Festival, where it brings the UpTrade program closer to more Filipinos in different areas of the country. From May 15 to 29, Apple fans and enthusiasts in North and South Luzon can upgrade to a new iPhone with exciting deals and offers.

More discounts in line

Other than UpTrade and online trade-ins, you can also have discounted iPhone promos and get up to:

These exclusive promos will only last until May 31, 2022.

For the guidelines of the UpTrade process, visit PMC’s UpTrade Festival website. Don’t forget to also follow Power Mac Center on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, YouTube, and join its official Viber community to be updated on the latest deals, discounts, and announcements about your favorite Apple devices.

13 Reasons Why: iPhone Edition

This isn’t a spinoff of the hit Netflix series 13 Reasons Why, but with the iPhone 13 and 13 Pro series being Apple’s latest smartphone models, I’ve listed down 13 specific reasons why I still keep coming back to an iPhone (despite being exposed to a lot of spec-quipped smartphones).

1. Easy to switch and go back

Whether you’re coming from an old iPhone or even an Android smartphone, Apple has made sure that you can easily migrate your precious data into your new iPhone.

For starters, there’s a cool orb that shows up in the new iPhone that you need to scan from your old iPhone in order to proceed.

If you’re coming from Android, the process is quite different. You need to connect to a temporary Wi-Fi hotspot so that the process will push through. There’s a specific Apple Support article about this if in case you already bought an iPhone but don’t know how to start:

READ MORE: Move from Android to iPhone

2. The wholeness of iOS

Apple’s iOS is probably one of the oldest and most mature Operating Systems (OS) that still power a lot of iPhones today. It’s a tad older than the 2009-launched Android system by Google and even held up against Windows Mobile — but we’re not here to talk about tech history.

In my years of using different smartphones, the user-friendliness and stability of iOS is what makes me come back. Not that I dislike having customization options from Android because as an artist, I want to freely express myself through the phone I use. But due to the familiarity iOS has over the years, it’s easier to dive down into settings and find what you’re looking for without being confused.

Moreover, the absence of an app drawer might be preferential but iOS paved the way — that’s why some Android manufacturers ship their phones without one, too. It never looked cluttered in my eyes since home screens full of widgets aren’t any different. This just makes navigation a little less of a hassle when opening a specific app or function.

Lastly, using the iPhone’s full-screen gestures is just a breeze. Whether you’re switching between apps or going back to the home screen, there’s no easy way than just using that single bar at the bottom. It’s no wonder why Google brought the same feature to Android a while back.

3. Continuous software updates

And while we’re already on the topic, owning an iPhone ensures you of having iOS updates for more than three years!

The iPhone 6s and 6s Plus are testaments to that. Launched back in September 2015, it can still run the latest version of iOS 15.

Even if it has limited OS features due to hardware limitations, the continuous software updates for almost seven (7) years is a gem for those who are still holding onto their old iPhones — especially when it’s still functional in terms of texts, calls, social media, and even basic photo and video taking.

4. App Store goodness

With over 1.8 million apps available, iOS is home to the largest App Store around. While most can also be seen in Android’s Google Play, the App Store provides faster and better updates regardless of how old your device is. Not to mention, iOS apps have better and more uniformed UI (user interface) than that of the competition.

You can also securely pay by paying through Apple Pay. Best of all? You can refund an app or game you don’t want through AppleCare.

5. Better gaming

Even if there are a bunch of Android gaming smartphones out there, most mobile game users still prefer an iPhone.

Regardless if you have the top-spec’d iPhone 13 Pro Max or just an iPhone 8 with an A11 Bionic Chip from 2017, these phones can still run most of the graphics-intensive games on the web. And with the latest 2022 Android midrangers I’ve held and reviewed, I can tell that the iPhone XR I own runs a game smoother than ever: Genshin Impact, Call of Duty: Mobile, PUBG, Pokémon GO, Asphalt 9, Mobile Legends, you name ’em!

This also dissolves the myth that iPhones are not good for gaming just because the specs aren’t high enough. With iOS’ software optimization and continuous OS updates, Apple doesn’t need to produce more hardware power just for these intense games to run smoothly.

It’s more secure, too. With the advancements of iOS and its security features, being unable to hack and cheat easily ensures you an overall better competitive gameplay experience.

6. Stunning display

Whether you’re watching your favorite Netflix series, K-Drama, K-Pop music videos, live performances, TikToks, Reels, and more, the iPhone’s display is more than enough for enjoying such content.

Admittedly, iPhones don’t have the best display tech in smartphones. Still, for day-to-day usage, those displays still look good — whether it’s an LCD or OLED. While 60Hz panels should be obsolete soon (like microUSB), it still surprises me that using an iPhone XR with a 60Hz LCD display still feels buttery smooth.

What more if you’ll buy and use the iPhone 13 Pro and 13 Pro Max with 120Hz ProMotion displays? The full iOS experience will be a blast.

7. Astounding cameras

If there’s one thing the iPhones are known for, it’s the powerful camera performance — both in photos and videos.

iPhones keep having better and better camera hardware each year. Even so, older iPhones with the same ol’ single wide camera lens at the back can still keep up in terms of quality — the new iPhone SE 2022 is a proof of that.

Still, the flexibility is limited without those extra telephoto and ultra-wide lenses that most Android smartphones possess. If you’re into Night or Pro photography, there are a lot of non-iPhone options out there (and some are honestly better). But if you’re into natural-looking photos with quality that closely resembles what you see with your naked eyes, you can never go wrong using an iPhone.

While there are lots of Android smartphones that can go against the iPhones, one thing they can’t beat is its video prowess. With Sensor-Shift OIS on the newer iPhone 12 Pro, 13, and 13 Pro variants, the better stabilization among iPhones just got even better!

With filmmakers investing on iPhones in making either short or full-length films, the new Dolby Vision HDR and Cinematic Mode are truly magical yet practical video features no one has ever dreamt of having in a smartphone. These are what we need, not 8K video recording.

8. Seamless Apple ecosystem

If you own several Apple devices, the ecosystem keeps you firm enough to stick with an iPhone — and that isn’t a bad thing. AirDrop is the most convenient way to share files from several other iPhone users, from a MacBook user like me, and even to a brother who uses an old iPad for school.

Being able to send text messages through iMessage is also another thing I consider since it doesn’t require you to fill up a regular prepaid load (or use an unwanted postpaid credit) before you can send SMS to a receiver who’s also an iPhone user.

AirDrop

And with Apple devices already mentioned, Continuity between your iPhone along your Mac, iPad, Apple Watch, and AirPods basically creates this ecosystem that can share not just files, but functionality all throughout whenever, wherever.

For example, being able to copy texts from one device to another or checking the notes you’ve typed on your iPhone and check it later on your Mac. You can even unlock your phone using your Watch.

CarPlay

Lastly, with the existence of AirPlay and CarPlay, it gives iPhone users the extensive control and connection of content to other non-Apple devices like Smart TVs and even car infotainment systems. Owning an iPhone isn’t restrictive at all.

9. Utmost privacy and security

While Apple doesn’t restrict you in using iPhones along with other devices, one thing they’re restrictive about is privacy and security.

Face ID

With the presence of Face ID and TrueDepth system, not only does it unlock your phone securely, it’s also aligned with every biometric authentication you have with your phone. From purchasing apps to displaying saved bank accounts and passwords, this new way of authentication simply makes me want to keep my iPhone even longer.

Touch ID

And if you have an older iPhone, don’t get your hopes too low as Touch ID (paired with a fingerprint sensor) can still make your device more safe and secure. So yeah, the new iPhone SE 2022 can still be secure enough for day-to-day scenarios.

10. Find My

Unfortunately, thieves know how high the value of an iPhone is.

But with Apple’s built-in Find My feature, it’s harder to break the phone if it’s stolen (or lost somewhere). Not only you can track your phone’s location (whether online or offline), you can also track your other devices, items, and even your loved ones just in case something bad happens.

While the same security measures are being brought to other Android smartphones, this is one of the strongest selling points on why you should own an iPhone.

11. Apple One

If you want to get the most out of your iPhone, subscribing into Apple’s very own ‘Apple One’ service is the way to go!

Not only it bumps up your iCloud storage, you can also enjoy listening to songs in Apple Music, watch titles in Apple TV+, and even play games you can’t find elsewhere in Apple Arcade. All those services for the price of one monthly fee that isn’t too harsh on the wallet.

Personally, I enjoy Apple Music more than Spotify especially because the Apple offers songs with a Hi-Res or Lossless quality. Some even support Dolby Atmos.

Also, being able to bump up my iCloud storage gives me the assurance that my photos and files get backed up in the cloud every now and then.

12. Plethora of cases and accessories

From cute cases to MagSafe-supported accessories, iPhones are no strangers to this. A lot of accessory manufacturers (whether big or small) keep producing cases and accessories that will fit the iPhone first. That’s one good thing when owning an iPhone.

With this in mind, iPhone users have access to every accessory out there ranging from the basic ones to the more premium ones. Albeit, iPhone customization and protection shouldn’t come at an expensive cost.

And with Apple’s in-house MagSafe feature, producing accessories with magnets such as MagSafe cases, power banks, and wireless power chargers, all make way for a better user experience in the long run.

SEE ALSO: Level up your #OOTD with these pink iPhone cases

13. Repairability

I was traumatized by that less-than-a-year-old Android phone I used back then before it broke down. Having an iPhone made me realize it’s easier to bring to a service center or an authorized repair shop.

Not that I’m saying iPhones are easy to repair. It’s just that, parts for iPhones (especially the genuine ones) are easier to find than of Android smartphones. Repair guides are also easier to search online just in case you want to try it yourself.

Apple even brings your right to repair your own iPhone with a Self Service Repair Store that’s available particularly in the US. This gives the user the right to purchase the necessary tools and parts needed for the procedure. It also gives them the ability to repair it if they’re knowledgeable enough to fix one.

As an experiment, I tore down my old iPhone 6 Plus during the pandemic two years ago and successfully replaced its faulty display that makes a lot of ghost touches. Today, it’s being used by my brother as his backup phone.

SEE ALSO: How to: Do-it-Yourself iPhone repair

 

BONUS: Emojis look best on an iPhone

Whether it’s the emoji you use for your posts, tweets, or just the fun Memojis and Animojis for iMessages, nothing beats the iPhone when it comes to these quirky stuff.

Not that it’s a big factor when choosing a phone, but it’s just a good thing to remember when you’re about to use an iPhone.

This feature is a collaboration between GadgetMatch and Power Mac Center.

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News

Shokz OpenFit Pro launches at Power Mac Center, brings open-ear noise reduction

Open-ear, now quieter

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March 23, 2026

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Shokz OpenFit Pro

There’s a certain kind of listener this is built for. The kind who wants music on, but not the world off.

That’s exactly where the new Shokz OpenFit Pro steps in. Now officially available at Power Mac Center, the latest from Shokz pushes open-ear audio further with a feature that feels almost contradictory at first: noise reduction—without shutting you out.

It’s a balancing act. And from what we’ve seen at the launch, it’s one Shokz is leaning into hard.

Open-ear, but with focus when you need it

Shokz OpenFit Pro

The headline feature here is Open-Ear Noise Reduction—a first for Shokz.

Instead of sealing your ears like traditional ANC earbuds, the OpenFit Pro keeps its signature open design. You still hear your surroundings, but now you can dial in a “focus mode” when things get too noisy.

It works through a triple-mic system paired with an ear-adaptive algorithm, which predicts in-ear noise and counters it with reverse sound waves. The result isn’t total silence, but a cleaner listening experience in places like offices, gyms, or busy streets.

It’s not about isolation. It’s about control.

Bigger sound, richer detail

Shokz is also going after better sound this time.

The OpenFit Pro uses a new Shokz SuperBoost™ dual-diaphragm driver, designed to deliver deeper bass and more detailed highs while keeping distortion low. The 11 × 20 mm driver performs like a larger speaker, giving it more room to breathe compared to typical open-ear buds.

There’s also Dolby Atmos support with head tracking, adding a more immersive layer—especially for supported content.

Built to stay on, all day

Comfort is still a big part of the pitch.

The earbuds use Ultra-Soft Silicone 2.0 and a flexible nickel-titanium ear hook that adapts to different ear shapes. They’re designed to stay secure whether you’re working out, walking, or just going through your day.

The build leans premium too, with an ultra-slim aluminum unibody design that keeps things lightweight and clean.

Calls, battery, and everyday extras

On the practical side, the OpenFit Pro checks a lot of boxes:

  • AI-powered triple-mic system for clearer calls (with wind resistance up to 25 km/h)
  • Up to 50 hours total battery with the case
  • Up to 12 hours listening time (6 hours with noise reduction on)
  • 10-minute quick charge = up to 4 hours playback
  • Qi wireless charging support
  • Multipoint pairing, smart wear detection, and Bluetooth 6.1

It’s also IP55-rated, making it suitable for workouts and light rain.

A different take on listening

Open-ear audio has always been about awareness and comfort.

With the OpenFit Pro, Shokz is trying to add a third layer: focus on demand.

It doesn’t replace traditional noise-cancelling earbuds. It doesn’t try to. Instead, it gives you the option to stay present—while still tuning the noise down when it matters. And for a lot of people, that might be the better everyday choice.

Price and availability

The Shokz OpenFit Pro retails for Php 14,990 or PhP 2498.33/mo for six months with select credit cards. It’s available in Power Mac Center locations nationwide.

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Gaming

God of War: Sons of Sparta takes a more contained approach to Kratos

Filipino devs were part of it.

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March 23, 2026

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God of War Sons of Sparta

There’s a version of God of War that lives in most people’s heads. It’s loud. Cinematic. Heavy with consequence. The kind of game that feels bigger than you.

God of War: Sons of Sparta isn’t that. At least, not in the way you expect.

It’s more contained. 2D. Pixel art. But spend a little time with it, and you start to see what it’s trying to do. Not replace the modern games. Not outdo them.

Just… revisit something familiar from a different angle.

A different take on Kratos

Instead of gods and world-ending stakes, Sons of Sparta focuses on Kratos earlier in his life, training as a Spartan alongside Deimos. It’s more contained. More personal.

You’re still fighting through brutal encounters. But the framing feels different. Less about destiny, more about who Kratos was before everything spiraled. And somehow, even in pixel form, it still feels like God of War.

Where Filipino developers come in

One of the more interesting parts of this project is how it came together.

Mega Cat Studios worked closely with Santa Monica Studio to build the game. That includes a strong presence from their Philippine team.

But it’s not framed as a separate unit.

“There is no separation between Mega Cat Pittsburgh and Mega Cat Philippines,” says Art Director Janley Clavio.
“We operate as one phalanx, and were part of the game from the beginning.”

That last part shifts the narrative from “support work” to actual collaboration.

The kind of work you feel more than you see

The team contributed to environment art, asset production, and overall polish across different areas of the game. Not the flashy headline stuff. But the kind that shapes how the game feels moment to moment.

“Our work supports the player experience without pulling attention away from the story,” Clavio explains.

Think temple interiors and ruined battlefields. Small details that hint at what happened in a place before you got there. It’s subtle. But it adds up.

Staying true to God of War—even in 2D

Working on God of War comes with a certain weight. Fans know how this world is supposed to look and feel. So, even if Sons of Sparta shifts genres, the expectation doesn’t really change.

“We had to make sure it wasn’t just any retro pixel art game—it had to be a God of War pixel art game,” Clavio says.

That meant studying the details. How materials look. How lighting behaves. How environments guide you. And then translating all of that into something simpler—but still recognizable.

A team that knows when to hold back

One thing that stands out from the conversation is restraint. There’s an understanding that when you’re working on something like God of War, you don’t need to reinvent everything. You just need to get it right.

“When you’re working on something fans already love, your job is to enhance it—not reinvent it.”

That mindset shows up across the game. It respects what came before, but still finds space to do its own thing.

Small details, personal touches

There are also a few quiet nods tucked into the game. Nothing too obvious. Nothing that breaks immersion. But enough for the team to leave their mark.

“For our Filipino artists, it’s a point of pride knowing that a little piece of our culture helped shape a world millions of players will explore.”

It’s not something the game calls attention to. But it’s there.

Not just another spin-off

Sons of Sparta is easy to label as a side project. And sure, it kind of is.

But it’s also a good example of what happens when different teams come together with a clear understanding of what they’re building.

A more contained God of War game that still feels like it belongs. A different perspective on a familiar story. And a project where Filipino developers weren’t just involved. They were part of the process from the start.

It doesn’t try to be the biggest entry in the series. And honestly, it doesn’t need to be.

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Accessories

Jackery SolarSaga series: Free power for small devices

Portable solar panels can charge small gadgets directly

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March 22, 2026

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As fuel prices continue to surge as of late, one of the ways to make up for the additional expenses is to turn to alternative power sources. That’s including solar power.

And Jackery is here to help Philippine consumers, with the availability of their portable SolarSaga panels.

These solar panels are an alternative to traditional and permanently installed rooftop solar panels. They are engineered for modern and mobile life with portable, lightweight, and sleek designs. They are built primarily to be set up and put away easily, and charge small devices directly.

Simply put the Jackery SolarSaga panels where sunlight is available, and it will convert up to 25% of sunlight into usable energy.

To charge small gadgets like phones and portable fans, or even smartwatches, the SolarSaga panels come with a USB-C and USB-A port.

Another way is connecting the SolarSaga to Jackery’s Explorer power stations like the Explorer 300 Plus or 1000 Plus.

From there, users can power up devices, essentially for free. On its own, the Jackery SolarSaga panels are available in 100W and 200W variants.

The panels are also IP68 rated for water and dust resistance. This makes them usable outdoors when brought to adventures like camping, picnics, or beach trips.

The panels are already available through Jackery’s Lazada and Shopee platforms, as well as Techroom’s Lazada and Shopee accounts.

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