News

MediaTek eyes video generative AI for mobile, next-gen sat broadband, more

MediaTek sets its eyes on the future

Published

April 24, 2024

GadgetMatch

Without question, AI-powered features have been integral for smartphones nowadays. And although it’s still “limited” what users can do with AI on their phones, MediaTek is trying to bring more advanced capabilities to mobile devices. This, as the semiconductor company is eyeing video generative AI for mobile, as part of its goals for the near future.

A few months ago at MWC 2024, MediaTek showcased on-device generative AI video diffusion powered entirely by its Dimensity 9300 processor. This leading smartphone chip incorporates the world’s first hardware-based generative AI Engine with secure, personalized AI. It is capable of bandwidth reduction, LoRA Fusion, and 8X faster generative AI performance, compared to MediaTek’s preceding AI processor.

Sooner rather than later, users can perhaps elevate the short video-editing experience on their smartphones by leveraging video generative AI, something reserved for heavyweight devices and software programs for now.

World’s first 5G-advanced satellite broadband

Aside from video generative AI on mobile devices, MediaTek is working on improving connectivity across various technologies. For instance, the company is working on a 5G-NR-NTN satellite chip that can deliver broadband speeds of up to 100mbps. They are working with Rohde & Schwarz for this innovation. One industry that will surely benefit from this is the automotive industry, with MediaTek utilizing advanced LEO satellite support over the Ku-band.

New platforms for 5G IoT, wearables

Meanwhile, the newly-announced MediaTek T300 platform will make it easy for IoT designers to transition to 5G-NR especially for applications requiring ultra-efficient connectivity and long-lasting battery life. This includes wearables, lightweight AR devices, and always-connected IoT devices. MediaTek likewise demonstrated at MWC 2024 how it can achieve consistent low latency for AR and IoT devices. This was made possible by the company’s new RedCap RFSoC using the Keysight UXM5G Wireless Test Platform.

5G CPE for better performance

Moreover, MediaTek showcased its latest 5G CPE devices powered by the T830 platform. Using three transmission antennae (3TX) applicable across 5G NR band combinations, MediaTek eyes performance enhancements for Wi-Fi routers, promising low latency, low loss, and a significant reduction in network delay.

Auto industry collaborations

Earlier in the year, MediaTek also released AI-driven chipsets specifically for smart cars. This is another aspect the company wants to build on. Using OpenSynergy Hypervisor technology, MediaTek wants advanced safety-first features through a virtualized OS within the vehicle. Additionally, MediaTek and ACCESS Twine4Car are working together to develop richer multiscreen entertainment and interactive services. Of course, the former already has the Dimensity Auto smart cockpit and infotainment platforms working to provide highly capable processing.

These platforms can handle demanding processes. These include multiple operating systems, wireless connectivity feeds, and multiple concurrent video playbacks. It can even support advanced 3D graphics and generative AI for the driver and passengers in the vehicle, elevating the overall smart car experience.

Smart home IoT connectivity

Lastly, MediaTek is envisioning a “home gateway” concept which it calls “Ambient Computing.” This will allow users to manage their network of IoT devices in a better, faster, and more direct manner. This will be done by having the technology solve the indoor-outdoor network barrier through bypassing third-party networks.

In other words, users will be able to control everything from their mobile device, minus third-party services. And because multiple devices are working together, a user may technically use a PC to accelerate tasks on the smartphone — beyond what’s possible on a mobile chip. That extends the phone’s life considerably, too.

News

NBA China, Alibaba Cloud partner to reimagine fan engagement

Alibaba Cloud becomes Official Cloud Computing and AI Partner of NBA in China

Published

October 10, 2025

GadgetMatch

NBA China and Alibaba Cloud have announced a multi-year partnership to elevate the fan experience locally through AI and cloud technologies.

Through the collaboration, Alibaba Cloud becomes the Official Cloud Computing and AI Partner of NBA in the country.

NBA China will utilize Alibaba Cloud’s AI and cloud computing services to support a wide range of digital fan engagement initiatives.

This includes the development of a proprietary AI model for NBA China based on Alibaba’s Qwen series of foundational models.

The scope of the partnership encompasses even the NBA All-Star, NBA Playoffs, and NBA Finals.

Even Quark and the Tongyi App, which are Alibaba’s consumer-facing AI applications, will also become Official Marketing Partners of NBA China.

Moreover, NBA China will leverage Alibaba Cloud’s infrastructure to host its digital destinations. These include the NBA App, the league’s official website in China, and NBA China mini-programs.

In addition, Alibaba Cloud will debut a Real-Time 360 Replay Solution at The NBA China Games 2025. This shall provide fans with AI-powered visual enhancements to replay highlights.

This year’s NBA China Games will likewise showcase innovative and interactive experiences powered by Alibaba Cloud’s AI capabilities.

At NBA House, fans can create personalized NBA-themed avatars and generate iconic commentary clips in a voice replicated from a sample of their own.

Lastly, as part of the multi-year deal, NBA China will also utilize Alibaba Cloud’s intelligent analytical tools to generate data-driven insights. This shall help enhance the league’s fan engagement efforts locally.

Entertainment

A Minecraft Movie is getting a sequel

It’s scheduled to premiere in July 2027.

Published

October 10, 2025

Luigi Leonardo

A Minecraft Movie was decidedly not for me. However, there’s no denying how much the movie was so effective for younger fans and gamers who grew up with Minecraft. It’s one of the highest-grossing movies this year. Even if I didn’t personally like it, I still consider it a success for videogame adaptations. Now, recognizing the film’s success, Warner Bros. has signed off on a sequel to Jack Black’s blocky caper, as confirmed by Variety.

It’s a mystery where the sequel will take players. Not to spoil anything, but the original movie did end with virtually loose ends neatly tied into a bow. Then again, Minecraft is an endless well of content. Where one story ends, another can just as easily open up in its place. As a game, it’s a completely open sandbox where nothing is limited.

However, to establish continuity, the sequel is reportedly tapping the talents of director Jared Hess once again. Chris Galleta might also come back to write the screenplay.

Interestingly, Jack Black is not confirmed yet. But given how much of a star he was as Steve, it’s hard to imagine a sequel without his energy, so it’s likely that he’s coming back. On a more positive note, Jason Momoa, who co-starred as Garrett Garrison, is expected to co-produce the sequel.

Warner Bros. has currently scheduled the sequel’s premiere on July 23, 2027.

SEE ALSO: Now Playing: A Minecraft Movie

Apps

ChatGPT Go now available in the Philippines, more Asian countries

Access to more popular ChatGPT features for an affordable subscription plan

Published

October 9, 2025

GadgetMatch

Graphics by Vincenz Lee | GadgetMatch

OpenAI has officially launched ChatGPT Go in 16 Asian countries, including the Philippines. This is the most cost-friendly subscription option yet at just PhP 300 (~ US$ 5.15).

This development gives users in the serviced regions greater access to ChatGPT’s advanced capabilities at a more affordable price.

To get started, simply visit chat.openai.com or download the ChatGPT mobile app, then create an account and select ChatGPT Go as your plan. The payment process is simple.

On the other hand, those who already have accounts may simply upgrade to Go.

The launch comes amid strong growth adoption of OpenAI’s tools in the Philippines. In fact, the country ranks among the top five countries for weekly ChatGPT users in Asia.

In addition, the top five use cases locally are tutoring, editing, personal writing, “how to” advice, and creative ideation.

At PhP 300 a month, ChatGPT Go subscribers will gain access to ChatGPT’s most popular features, including higher message limits, image generation, file uploads, and memory.

These are all powered by GPT-5, OpenAI’s most-advanced model.

Specifically, here’s the perks for the Go plan compared to free:

10x higher message limits
10x more image generations per day
10x more file or image uploads per day
2x longer memory for personalized responses

ChatGPT Go will join existing subscription options Plus (PhP 1,100) and Pro (PhP 9,900).

Plus is for subscribers who need more advanced thinking models and features like deep research, agent mode, and Sora video creation.

Meanwhile, Pro is for professionals, researchers, or organizations who need enterprise-grade scale, pro-level reasoning, and the most advanced features.