News

The iKKO Mind One is a card-sized smartphone that has built-in internet

It can even transform as a modern-day BlackBerry!

Published

August 5, 2025

Vincenz

Graphics by Vincenz Lee | GadgetMatch

Smartphones nowadays are just unavoidably ginormous. Even “mini”-branded phones have screens that are over the 6-inch mark.

However, an audio-dedicated brand (and basically a nobody in the smartphone world) has decided to bring a fun yet still capable and fully-functional smartphone this 2025.

Meet the iKKO Mind One.

Card-Sized Wonder

The iKKO Mind One is already standing out with its card-sized form factor.

With a measurement of just 86 × 72mm and thinness of only 8.9mm, it’s the real definition of a “mini” smartphone in today’s standards.

Graphics by Vincenz Lee | GadgetMatch

It’s equipped with a 4.02-inch AMOLED display that perfectly fits in everyone’s palms, a tiny pants pocket, or even inside tight bag pockets.

That panel has 60Hz refresh rate with 1080p Full HD+ display resolution and supports DC Dimming.

GIF by Vincenz Lee | GadgetMatch

The Mind One has Tempered Glass protection while the Pro version promises to be more scratch-resistant with Sapphire Glass alongside 9H hardness.

At its core is an 8GB memory paired with ample 256GB storage.

For picture-perfect moments, the iKKO doesn’t lag behind with its 50MP f/1.88 camera based on a Sony 1/1.56-inch sensor.

This camera can be flipped up or down so it can support rear-cam shooting or selfies.

It also has built-in OIS and supports 2K/30fps video recording.

The iKKO Mind One is also the first smartphone with native dual-boot system.

Aside from Google-based Android 15, it also runs iKKO’s AI OS with all the needed AI-based apps and services in mind.

Free Global Internet?!

The main promise of the iKKO Mind One is being able to provide free internet globally without unnecessary steps for connecting.

To be precise, the Mind One offers two levels of built-in internet: NovaLink and vSIM.

Basically, NovaLink provides free internet coverage for 60 regions but only limited to iKKO AI OS’ apps — no subscription required!

Meanwhile, vSIM provides full internet access for both built-in and third-party Android apps for over 140 countries — but with additional cost / top-up plans.

However, hotspot sharing cannot be enabled through NovaLink and is only supported via vSIM.

Though iKKO still made sure you can connect your existing SIM card with its dedicated nano SIM card slot.

Efficiency Above Everything Else

Caveat or not, the Mind One doesn’t support 5G connectivity and is limited to 4G+ utmost — and that’s for a reason.

With MediaTek’s MT8781 8-core chipset, it enables vSIM support that makes it possible to connect to the internet for free wherever you go around the world.

Moreover, this chip is optimized for low power consumption, stable connectivity, and most of all global roaming.

Even with just a measly 2200mAh battery, the Mind One can stay up all-day usage paired with their chosen 4G chipset.

Bringing Back BlackBerry

This idea may not be unique as this is already an existing product called as “Clicks Keyboard” meant for existing iPhones, Galaxys, Pixels, and even razrs. However, iKKO provides the Snap-In Expansion Case with better use case without looking absurd.

Such optional accessory brings BlackBerry back to life with the right balance between its screen and keyboard.

This physical QWERTY keyboard has raised keys and a sloped surface, making typing natural, tactile, and overall satisfying.

No frills, it’s fully plug-and-play with Google’s Gboard in tow. Also, the keyboard doesn’t require charging to operate as power usage is extremely low when being used.

Graphics by Vincenz Lee | GadgetMatch

Aside that, it has a magnetic attachment for your additional MagSafe / Qi2-ready accessories. More so, a built-in 500mAh battery that extends the energy endurance of the Mind One even further.

For audiophiles, the case enables wired listening with its 3.5mm audio jack plus lossless audio Hi-Fi DAC support thanks to Cirrus Logic CS43198 audio component inside.

iKKO knows the right thing as they’ve started as an audio brand offering IEM (in-ear monitors) and smart TWS earbuds.

Pricing and Availability

iKKO still accepts backing of the Mind One series on Kickstarter. As of this writing, it’s already hitting the US$ 1 Million goal with over 2100 backers.

The base Mind One has an MSRP of US$ 389. However, pledging early will get you the more capable Mind One Pro for an even cheaper price tag of US$ 369.

Unfortunately, the US$ 299 introductory price was already sold out.

Once they’re all gone, the Mind One Pro will have its US$ 499 retail price back.

Aside from the regular Jet Black and Pearl White color options, all backers can pick between two new added Bluish Pink and Sky Blue colorways after the campaign ends.

Its add-on accessories are also available in slashed prices:

Snap-in Expansion Case = US$ 79 (from US$ 109)
Extra Protective Case = US$ 15 (from US$ 20)
Extra 3 pcs. Screen Protector = US$ 10 (from US$ 15)

These tiny yet mighty phones are expected to be shipped by end of 2025 (around November to December).

Accessories

Sony ships its LinkBuds Fit Hatsune Miku edition to the United States

It will come with the special acrylic stand.

Published

January 15, 2026

Luigi Leonardo

Hatsune Miku is finding her way everywhere. Last year, the pop icon built partnerships where you might have least expected one. Now, a recent collaboration has made it to new shores. Sony is shipping its recent partnership with Hatsune Miku in the United States.

In the middle of last year, Sony released a limited edition of the LinkBuds Fit featuring Hatsune Miku. Inside, the special variant is indistinguishable from the original series. However, it will have special colorway options, including the icon’s signature green.

Now, the limited edition is now available in the United States. It will be available for US$ 249.99.

Like the first launch, buying the special edition of the earbuds will give fans a limited-edition acrylic earbud stand featuring newly illustrated artwork by Ogipote. It also features two original HoloModels of the character.

Further, those who purchased the device will get access to a special campaign song called “BELIEVE DAY” and an animated performance of the same song. Fans need only to register their product and install the HoloModels app.

News

TNT earns honors at 2025 International Business Awards

TNT Petmaloop campaign earns Gold Stevie

Published

January 14, 2026

GadgetMatch

Philippines network provider TNT, the value brand of PLDT’s mobile wireless subsidiary Smart, earned multiple honors at the recent 2025 International Business Awards.

At the 22nd edition of the IBA, TNT bagged a Gold Stevie for Brand Experience of the Year – Consumer. This was for the groundbreaking TNT Petmaloop Challenge.

The campaign gathered content creators nationwide to feature highlights of their hometowns that give them “saya” (joy) using TikTok.

It culminated in an uninterrupted stream that earned a Guinness World Records title for the Longest Travel Livestream after running for 26 hours, 15 minutes, and 29 seconds.

Moreover, TNT also received a Silver Stevie for Viral Marketing Campaign of the Year for its SIM Registration campaign. This blended creativity and humor in urging subscribers to register their SIMs on time.

TNT’s awards form part of the broader recognition received by the PLDT Group and Smart at the same awards, also known as The Stevies.

These reflect the integrated telecommunications provider’s continued investments in network development, innovation, and customer-focused initiatives.

Apps

Apple gives up on making AI, inks a deal with Gemini to power Siri

Gemini gets another feather in its cap.

Published

January 14, 2026

Luigi Leonardo

In the not-too-long-ago past, the biggest names of the tech industry competed to build their own AI software. Now, though some brands are still on the hunt, it’s easier to name certain software that have more successfully drowned users in a flood of AI-powered features. Today, Google gets another win by adding Apple’s Siri to its Gemini cap.

In the past, Apple peddled Apple Intelligence, an upcoming AI-powered system to compete against the giants of the industry. However, much like other features from other brands, Apple Intelligence came out half baked with features still lacking months after the initial launch.

Now, Apple has signed a deal with Google to use Gemini for a revamped Siri. The former plans to launch a new version of Siri later this year. Because of the deal, the voice assistant will start using Gemini as a foundation for its own services. Currently, Samsung’s Galaxy AI already uses Gemini.

Formerly a battleground between so many competing brands, it’s now looking like a battle between two major companies: Google and OpenAI. Google now has a huge grip, though. Both Samsung and Apple are no slouches when it comes to owning market share in the world’s smartphones.

Now, as consumers, Apple’s deal probably doesn’t mean much besides the continued influx of features that add little to no value to a smartphone.