Philippines

The HONOR X8d is serviceable

Steady but slow?

Published

March 19, 2026

Rodneil Quiteles

Some smartphones aim to stand out. Others just aim to work. The HONOR X8d falls squarely into the second category.

In day-to-day use, it presents itself as a device that focuses on the essentials. It’s functional, predictable, and easy to understand—but also a reminder of how noticeable the gap can be once performance and responsiveness start to lag behind.

A design-first approach

The HONOR X8d makes a decent first impression. It’s slim, relatively lightweight, and easy to hold despite packing a large battery. The flat sides and smooth back give it a clean, modern look, while the camera module adds a bit of visual identity.

It’s available in Light Blue, Velvet Black, and Velvet Grey—options that lean into its youthful positioning. The device also feels sturdy in hand, backed by SGS certification for drop and crush resistance, along with IP65-level protection against dust and splashes.

For a device in this category, the HONOR X8d delivers a build that feels dependable enough for daily use.

Display and media: Bright and usable

Miss All Sunday makes everything look good

Up front, the HONOR X8d features a 6.77-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate and up to 3000 nits peak brightness. Colors are vibrant, and the panel supports 100% DCI-P3, which helps content look lively.

For casual viewing, the experience is serviceable. Watching shows or videos feels comfortable, and the high brightness ensures visibility even under harsh lighting. Features like 3840Hz PWM dimming and E-Book mode also help reduce eye strain during extended use.

Now Playing: One Piece Season 2

I skimmed through a few episodes of the One Piece Season 2 live action on Netflix and again it was… alright. Nothing here will blow you away but it serves its purpose.

I also listened to “Attitude” by aespa on YouTube music and it just echoes the general feeling of the phone – serviceable.

That said, the overall experience remains straightforward. It delivers what you need for day-to-day media consumption without going much further.

Performance is where compromises show

The HONOR X8d runs on the Snapdragon 6s 4G Gen 2 paired with 8GB of RAM. On paper, it’s positioned for everyday tasks, but in practice, performance leans on the modest side.

Basic interactions like switching between apps or scrolling through feeds can feel slower than expected. There’s a noticeable delay at times, even during simple tasks, which affects the overall flow of the experience.

This extends to camera usage as well, where responsiveness can occasionally feel a step behind. The device remains usable, but the pacing may feel dragging depending on what you’re used to.

Cameras are reliable in good light

The HONOR X8d is equipped with a 108MP main camera alongside a 5MP wide camera, with a 16MP shooter up front.

In good lighting conditions, the phone produces decent images. Shots are clear enough, with acceptable detail and color for social media sharing. The camera system also benefits from a suite of AI tools such as AI Eraser, AI Cutout, and AI Upscale, which add flexibility when editing photos.

Zoom options at 1x, 2x, and 3x remain usable, though results are best when lighting is favorable. Overall, the camera system is dependable for casual snaps.

Software and AI: familiar, feature-filled

Running on MagicOS 10 based on Android 16, the HONOR X8d comes with a feature-rich software experience. It includes tools like AI Translate, AI Writing, AI Notes, and AI Recorder, alongside features such as Magic Portal and Circle to Search.

Like many Android skins today, MagicOS follows a design approach that will feel immediately familiar. The layout, navigation, and overall structure borrow heavily from the iOS-inspired blueprint that most brands have adopted. It’s easy to get into, even for less experienced users.

Typical of entry-level smartphones, the device also includes app recommendations out of the box. Thankfully, these aren’t overly intrusive, and many of the suggested apps are ones users would likely install anyway.

The software helps add depth to the overall package, even if the hardware limits how smooth everything feels in actual use.

Battery and everyday use is a clear strength

One of the standout features of the HONOR X8d is its 7000mAh battery. It’s designed to last through extended use, whether for streaming, browsing, or everyday communication.

Paired with 45W HONOR SuperCharge, topping up the device remains relatively quick. For users who prioritize longevity over speed, this is easily one of the more reliable aspects of the phone.

Is the HONOR X8d your GadgetMatch?

When HONOR Philippines was first teasing the phone it was positioned as something for students. But if I were a parent, I’m pretty sure I’d like my kid to have some kind of advantage and not have to deal with a device that might not be able to keep up with them.

After learning that it’s priced at PhP 15,999 my verdict just became much clearer. This is a Swipe Left.

Add a few more to that price and you can get an excellent smartphone at its early bird price.

The HONOR X8d focuses on delivering the basics—design that works, a large battery, and a feature-filled software experience.

However, the overall experience depends heavily on what you prioritize. For users who simply need a phone that can get through daily tasks, the X8d does enough to hold its ground. For those who value speed and responsiveness, it may feel a step behind.

Whether it fits your needs ultimately comes down to how much you’re willing to trade performance for battery life and features.

Philippines

Smart Infinity launches PureVoice

AI-powered noise cancellation for calls

Published

November 6, 2026

GadgetMatch

Smart Infinity has launched PureVoice, an AI-powered service that filters background noise during calls. The service aims to deliver clearer conversations, even in noisy environments.

Launched on November 6, 2026, PureVoice reduces distractions from traffic, crowds, and music. It supports everyday conversations, from important business calls to catching up with family and friends.

PureVoice also works on smartphones without built-in noise cancellation. Users don’t need to install an app or configure additional settings.

Subscribers can simply press 8# during a call to enable or disable the service. Smart Infinity members get first access, with a wider rollout planned for other Smart subscribers.

Smart continues to improve voice calling

PureVoice builds on Smart’s investments in network expansion and modernization.

In 2020, Smart completed its Voice over LTE (VoLTE) rollout. The technology enables high-quality voice calls while allowing subscribers to use mobile data simultaneously.

Smart also introduced Video over LTE (ViLTE). The technology lets subscribers make video calls through their phone’s dialer without third-party applications.

The company also highlighted its performance in quality-of-service tests conducted by the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) in Metro Manila. Smart recorded zero dropped calls in the latest tests, meeting the regulator’s prescribed threshold.

Smart Infinity members can learn more about PureVoice by calling *800.

Philippines

Lazada kicks off 11.11 Biggest Sale of the Year ahead of holiday rush

With up to 90% off deals

Published

November 5, 2026

GadgetMatch

Lazada Philippines is kicking off its 11.11 Biggest Sale of the Year ahead of the holiday shopping rush. The sale runs from 8 PM on November 6 to November 13, 2026.

Shoppers can enjoy up to 90% off LazFlash Deals and additional Lazada vouchers worth up to PHP 3,000. The promotions cover gifts, household essentials, personal technology, fashion, and everyday lifestyle products.

Featured brands include SharkNinja, Jo Malone, CAROTE Global, Tempur, HONOR, Scrub Daddy, Karat World, and FitFlop.

Filipino shoppers become more discerning

The 2026 eCommerce Savvy Shopper Report by Cube, in partnership with Lazada, highlights changing Filipino shopping habits. The report found that 36% of Filipino online shoppers qualify as “Savvy Shoppers.”

This represents the highest proportion among six Southeast Asian markets surveyed. Another 22% of Filipino respondents fall under the “Near-Savvy” category.

The study measures shopping habits across four dimensions: Verification, Value Optimisation, Confidence & Protection, and Digital Fluency. These dimensions examine how consumers evaluate products and sellers, find better deals, and navigate digital shopping tools.

They also consider how shoppers assess safeguards throughout their online purchasing journey. The findings show that Filipinos now consider more than price when shopping online.

Product authenticity, seller credibility, buyer protection, and reliable information also influence their purchasing decisions.

Lazada aims to address these priorities through its shopping features and services. LazMall offers an authenticity guarantee, while AI chatbot LazzieChat helps shoppers make informed purchasing decisions.

Other in-app tools also help consumers navigate their online shopping experience with greater confidence.

Start holiday shopping early with Lazada

Lazada Philippines brings together trusted global brands and promotional offers to help shoppers prepare for the holidays.Consumers can explore gifts, home essentials, and everyday lifestyle products for the season and beyond.

Shoppers can access the 11.11 Biggest Sale of the Year through the Lazada Philippines app. The sale runs from 8 PM on November 6 to November 13, 2026.

Philippines

Smart boosts 5G network in Siargao for World Surf League event

Smart expands 5G coverage across Siargao.

Published

November 4, 2026

GadgetMatch

Smart Communications is strengthening its 5G network in Siargao ahead of the World Surf League (WSL) Championship Tour, which is being held at Cloud 9 in General Luna until November 10.

The network enhancements aim to provide faster mobile connectivity for residents, tourists, athletes, media practitioners, and spectators attending the competition.

As the event’s official telecommunications partner, Smart has expanded its existing 5G coverage and capacity in key areas of the island. These include Cloud 9, Siargao Airport, Siargao Seaport, and other strategic locations.

The competition marks the first time the Philippines is hosting a stop on the prestigious WSL Championship Tour, bringing international surfing talent and visitors to the island.

“Siargao is an important tourism destination, and we are committed to supporting its continued growth through reliable connectivity,” said Lloyd R. Manaloto, Smart’s First Vice President and officer-in-charge.

He added that the partnership with WSL provides an opportunity to deliver better digital experiences to athletes, visitors, and local communities.

Beyond the competition, Smart says improved mobile connectivity can help residents and tourists with digital payments, accommodation and transportation bookings, real-time communication, and sharing their travel experiences online. It can also help local businesses facilitate transactions and engage customers.

Smart 5G offers for WSL visitors

Visitors attending the WSL Championship Tour can access select Smart Unli 5G offers, which include unlimited 5G data and non-stop 4G data starting at PHP 90 for three days.

Smart Postpaid subscribers can also take advantage of plans with Smart Device Link, allowing them to share their primary mobile number and plan with a smartwatch for calls, texts, and mobile data even when their iPhone is not nearby.

Smart subscribers who avail of select offers at designated booths and partner stores in Siargao may also receive freebies.

The network improvements are part of Smart’s continued investment in mobile connectivity across the Philippines. The company also highlighted its recognition from Ookla for Best Mobile Latency and Best Mobile Video Experience.