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).

Entertainment

Resident Evil movie reboot finally gets a scary trailer

Can you spot the Easter eggs for longtime fans?

Published

July 24, 2026

Luigi Leonardo

After briefly losing its way in the middling fifth and sixth entries, the Resident Evil series rediscovered its way back to the survival horror genre with the seventh entry onwards. However, the series doesn’t have the best reputation in Hollywood with its lackluster reviews. Now, the Hollywood series wants to right the ship with the upcoming reboot, simply titled Resident Evil.

Much like the gaming franchise’s renaissance, the upcoming film heads to the survival horror genre with a frightful caper. Medical courier Bryan (Austin Abrams) is tasked with delivering a vital organ to somewhere outside Raccoon City. Along the way, he runs over a rabid woman, who just disappears when he steps out to check.

Forced to seek help at a nearby shack, he finds himself in a struggle for survival when he discovers monstrous beings lurking around. It gets worse when he returns to the city and finds it overrun with the zombie outbreak.

The trailer has a few Easter eggs, including a typewriter, one of the most traditional ways that the game series uses to save games. Director Zach Cregger (Weapons) promises that the movie itself will have more Easter eggs for longtime fans of the series.

Resident Evil will premiere in theaters on September 18.

News

Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra2 and Watch9: Price, availability in the Philippines

Prices start at PHP 24,990

Published

July 22, 2026

GadgetMatch

Samsung has officially launched the Galaxy Watch Ultra2 and Galaxy Watch9 in the Philippines alongside the new Galaxy Z8 Series.

The new wearables expand Samsung’s smartwatch lineup with upgraded health tracking, AI-powered wellness features, and faster performance. The Galaxy Watch9 is designed for everyday health and fitness, while the Galaxy Watch Ultra2 caters to users looking for a more rugged smartwatch for outdoor adventures.

Here’s how much they cost in the Philippines.

Pricing

Galaxy Watch Ultra2

PHP 44,990

Galaxy Watch9

40mm — PHP 22,990
46mm — PHP 24,990

Availability

Pre-orders begin on July 23 through Samsung Philippines and authorized retailers. Both smartwatches will be offered in multiple color options depending on the model.

Pre-order offers

Customers who pre-order either smartwatch can enjoy several launch offers, including:

Up to 15% off
Up to 36 months of 0% installment plans with participating banks
Up to 50% off through eligible trade-ins
Up to 36% off Samsung Care+ device protection

Galaxy Watch9

The Galaxy Watch9 is Samsung’s latest everyday smartwatch. It features the company’s newest health and wellness platform with AI-powered insights, comprehensive health tracking, and everyday activity monitoring.

Powering the experience is Qualcomm’s Snapdragon Wear Elite platform, which promises faster performance while supporting Samsung’s latest wellness features. The watch is available in 40mm and 46mm sizes.

Galaxy Watch Ultra2

The Galaxy Watch Ultra2 builds on Samsung’s premium outdoor smartwatch with a durable titanium construction, improved comfort, and new sport tracking modes such as Trail Run and Diving.

Like the Galaxy Watch9, it runs on the Snapdragon Wear Elite platform and supports Samsung’s latest AI-powered health and wellness tools.

News

Samsung Galaxy Z8 Series: Price, availability in the Philippines

Prices start at PHP 77,990

Published

July 22, 2026

Rodneil Quiteles

Samsung has officially launched the Galaxy Z8 Series in the Philippines, bringing three foldables to the local market. The lineup includes the new passport-style Galaxy Z Fold8, the flagship Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra, and the Galaxy Z Flip8.

Pre-orders are now open nationwide. Alongside updated Galaxy AI experiences, Samsung’s latest foldables cater to different lifestyles—from productivity-focused power users and those looking for a more portable Fold experience to fans of compact flip phones.

Samsung Galaxy Z8 Series price in the Philippines

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra starts at PHP 123,990, while the new Galaxy Z Fold8 begins at PHP 109,990. Meanwhile, the Galaxy Z Flip8 starts at PHP 77,990.

Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra

Storage	Price
256GB	PHP 123,990
512GB	PHP 137,990
1TB	PHP 165,990

Colors: Violet Shadow, Cream, Graphite, Green Shadow (Online Exclusive)

Galaxy Z Fold8

Storage	Price
256GB	PHP 109,990
512GB	PHP 123,990
1TB	PHP 151,990

Colors: Lavender, Cream, Graphite, Pistachio (Online Exclusive)

Galaxy Z Flip8

Storage	Price
256GB	PHP 77,990
512GB	PHP 91,990

Colors: Coral, Cream, Graphite, Mint

Availability and pre-order offers

Pre-orders for the Samsung Galaxy Z8 Series in the Philippines run from July 23 to August 13.

During the pre-order period, customers can enjoy a free storage upgrade worth up to PHP 7,000, trade-in savings of up to PHP 14,000, and three months of Samsung Care+ at no additional cost.

Samsung is also offering up to 15% off and 0% installment for up to 36 months through participating banks. Monthly installment plans start at PHP 1,841.43 for the Galaxy Z8 Series and PHP 542.82 for the Galaxy Watch Ultra2 and Galaxy Watch9.

Participating banks include BDO, BPI, UnionBank, Metrobank, EastWest Bank, PNB, Security Bank, HSBC, RCBC, and Chinabank.

Customers can also take advantage of Samsung’s trade-in program through CompAsia and bolttech, with guaranteed trade-in values of up to PHP 16,000 for the Galaxy Z8 Series and up to PHP 7,000 for the Galaxy Watch Ultra2 and Galaxy Watch9.

For added peace of mind, Samsung is offering up to 36% off Samsung Care+ through bolttech. The protection plan includes unlimited repairs for up to two years, up to two device replacements, global coverage across 55 countries, and free nationwide pick-up and delivery.

Galaxy Z Fold8 introduces a new Fold experience

Headlining the lineup is the new Galaxy Z Fold8, which introduces an entirely new take on Samsung’s book-style foldable.

Instead of simply shrinking its flagship Fold, Samsung designed the Fold8 around a different idea: making a book-style foldable that’s easier to carry and use every day. Its passport-inspired form factor prioritizes portability and one-handed usability while retaining the large inner display for multitasking, productivity, and entertainment.

The new Fold8 joins—not replaces—the Fold8 Ultra, giving buyers another option depending on how they use their foldable.

Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra builds on Samsung’s flagship foldable

Existing Fold users should note that the Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra is the direct successor to last year’s Galaxy Z Fold7. This year, Samsung renames its traditional book-style foldable as the Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra while introducing an entirely new model simply called the Galaxy Z Fold8.

Rather than redesigning the device, Samsung focuses on refinement. The Fold8 Ultra features a 200MP main camera, Flex Titanium Technology, a brighter display, improved performance, and expanded Galaxy AI capabilities for users who want Samsung’s most advanced foldable.

Galaxy Z Flip8 refines Samsung’s compact foldable

Samsung also updates its clamshell foldable with the Galaxy Z Flip8.

The latest model builds on its familiar design with upgrades to FlexWindow, FlexCam, Galaxy AI, and overall performance. Samsung says the larger cover display allows users to accomplish more everyday tasks without unfolding the device, while its compact design continues to make it the most pocket-friendly model in the lineup.

Galaxy AI powers the Galaxy Z8 Series

Galaxy AI remains a central part of Samsung’s latest foldables.

The company introduces new features such as Gemini-powered Notebooks for organizing information from multiple sources, alongside expanded Photo Assist editing tools and My Filter for more personalized image creation. Across the Fold lineup, Samsung also continues to optimize AI features for multitasking and productivity on larger displays.