Philippines

Smart shows off 5G SA at j-hope concert

Enhanced mobile experience promised

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Smart 5G SA

Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) not only amplified the excitement surrounding j-hope of BTS’s “Hope on the Street” concerts at the MOA Arena on April 12 and 13 but also marked a significant technological advancement. The company successfully showcased its cutting-edge 5G Standalone (SA) technology at the event. It highlights a next-generation mobile network experience designed to maximize 5G capabilities for its subscribers.

The key advantage of 5G SA lies in its ability to perform “network slicing.” This allows for the optimization of network infrastructure for specific uses and applications. This capability enables Smart to offer a prioritized network experience for users in high-demand scenarios. A densely populated like a concert is a major example.

At the j-hope concerts, Smart provided 5G-SA-capable handsets to select concertgoers. This demonstrated the network slicing capabilities of its 5G SA network. Even amidst thousands of fellow attendees, these users experienced impressive download speeds and a seamless mobile internet experience.

To further emphasize the power of this advanced mobile technology, Smart also customized the network ID displayed on the SA-enabled devices to “J-Hope Concert.” It highlights the technology in action.

Towards a world-class customer experience

The 5G SA technology demonstration builds upon Smart’s recent launches of Smart 5G Max and TNT ‘5G Max’ in Taguig City last December. Both aimed at providing a more seamless mobile experience. Alongside 5G Max, TNT also introduced Max Saya 30, its first prepaid data pack offering a prioritized network experience.

Powered by Smart 5G Max in real-world use

The power of Smart 5G Max proved beneficial for concertgoers throughout their experience, from entry verification to staying connected during the event.

Elaine, a university student attending the concert, shared, “My parents wanted me to update them every hour since it was my first K-pop concert. My Smart 5G line ensured I could message them via SMS or Viber without any issues.”

She also highlighted her ability to share short videos on social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram in real-time. “We also had the opportunity to see the demo of Smart’s 5G SA, and it clearly showed boosted internet compared to a device without SA. Throughout the concert, there were no lags, and I was posting the whole time during and after the show,” Elaine added.

Nic, a young professional who attended the second day of the concert, expressed his gratitude for the consistent signal on his Smart phone. “I have attended concerts where the signal was terrible, causing anxiety about potential emergencies. This time with Smart, I was reassured that my family could contact me anytime.”

With reliable and strong phone signals, concert attendees were able to fully enjoy j-hope’s performance, which included his solo hits and popular BTS tracks.

Enhancing the Fan Experience

Beyond the network technology showcase, Smart also focused on enhancing the overall fan experience for ARMY (BTS’s fanbase). Months prior to the concerts, Smart held an exclusive presale event for its prepaid and postpaid subscribers, offering them an advantage in securing tickets. Smart also conducted a ticket giveaway promo exclusive to subscribers.

At the concert venue, fans could visit the Smart 5G Max booth, inspired by the “Sweet Dreams” pop-up in New York, for photo opportunities and interactive experiences.

This event not only provided entertainment but also served as a practical demonstration of Smart’s commitment to advancing its network technology and delivering a superior mobile experience for its users, even in high-demand scenarios.

News

Visa brings Apple Pay to its customers in the Philippines

An easier and more secure way to pay with iPhone, Apple Watch, iPad, and Mac

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Visa (NYSE: V), a global leader in digital payments, announced today that Visa debit and credit cardholders in the Philippines can now add their eligible cards to Apple Pay on their iPhone, Apple Watch, iPad, and Mac. Apple Pay is an easy, secure and private way to pay in-store, in-app and online.

This announcement accelerates the digitalization of payments all while expanding payment options for Filipinos traveling abroad and visitors traveling to the Philippines. Across the Asia Pacific region, 97% of travelers1 say that they will bring credit, debit, or prepaid cards on their trips, while only 17% intend to bring foreign currency. Among travelers, 38% said they prefer cards because of robust security and fraud protection features, while 20% cite wide acceptance. Apple Pay seamlessly delivers on these exact needs by making everyday transactions easy, secure, and private.

Visa Confidential

To pay in-store, customers simply double-click the side button, authenticate, and hold their iPhone or Apple Watch near a payment terminal to make a contactless payment. Every Apple Pay purchase is secure because it is authenticated with Face ID, Touch ID, or device passcode, as well as a one-time unique dynamic security code. Apple Pay is accepted in grocery stores, pharmacies, restaurants, coffee shops, retail stores, and many more places that accept contactless payments.

Customers can also use Apple Pay on iPhone, iPad, and Mac to make faster and more convenient purchases in apps or on the web without having to create accounts or repeatedly type in contact information, card details, or shipping and billing information.

“Apple Pay represents the next evolution of payments in the Philippines, combining ease of use, simplicity, and security in every transaction, helping amplify the payment experience for Visa cardholders in the Philippines. With Apple Pay, Filipinos and tourists alike now have seamless and secure ways to pay across shops, restaurants, travel destinations, and public transport, supporting the nation’s vision to become a cash-lite economy,” said Jeffrey Navarro, Country Manager for Visa Philippines.

Security and privacy are at the core of Apple Pay. When customers use a credit or debit card with Apple Pay, the actual card numbers are not stored on the device, nor on Apple servers. Instead, a unique Device Account Number is assigned, encrypted and securely stored in the Secure Element, an industry-standard, certified chip designed to store the payment information safely on the device.

Apple Pay is easy to set up. On iPhone, simply open the Wallet app, tap the ‘+’, and follow the steps to add a Visa card. Once a customer adds a card to iPhone, Apple Watch, iPad, and Mac, they can start using Apple Pay on that device right away. Customers will continue to receive all of the rewards and benefits offered by their Visa cards.

For more information on Apple Pay, visit: https://www.apple.com/ph/apple-pay/

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Automotive

VinFast debuts two-wheeler models, opens 21 e-motorcycle showrooms

Evo, Feliz II, Viper officially launched

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VinFast is pouncing on its growing presence in the Philippines, expanding with 21 electric motorcycle showrooms housing its new two-wheeler offerings.

The electric vehicle company just launched three two-wheeler offerings in the market: the VinFast Evo, Feliz II, and Viper.

Such milestone marks an important step in VinFast’s expansion in one of Southeast Asia’s largest two-wheeler markets.

The introduction of the three VinFast two-wheeler models offer drivers a modern, cost-effective, and sustainable mobility alternative.

Evo, Feliz II, and Viper each offer distinct characteristics designed to meet a wide range of mobility needs and riding styles.

Evo has a top speed of 80 km/h and a range of up to 150 km with two fully charged batteries. The Feliz II emphasizes practicality and versatile performance, with a top speed of 90 km/h.

Rounding out the lineup is Viper, featuring a sporty design, maximum power output of 5,200W, and a top speed of 90 km/h.

The aforementioned 21 pioneer dealerships will begin operations in major cities nationwide. This allows VinFast to offer products and authorized services directly to consumers.

The network is expected to grow further in the coming period, progressively expanding with VinFast’s presence in the country.

Just over a month ago, VinFast’s early booking program drew thousands of customers nationwide.

The strong market response can be attributed to VinFast’s battery-swapping approach, contributing to the appeal of the e-scooters.

Following the launch, the public can expect immersive experience activities across the new dealerships throughout August 2026.

Customers will be able to see and test ride the three models. They can also learn about battery technology and sales policies, and explore flexible ownership options.

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Automotive

BYD Atto 2 launches with EV, plug-in hybrid options

A full EV variant and two DM-i hybrid options, all built around the same Blade Battery platform

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BYD Cars Philippines just launched the Atto 2 at the Trinoma Activity Center in Quezon City. It’s the newest addition to the brand’s New Energy Vehicle lineup here.

You get a choice between a full battery electric vehicle and BYD’s Super DM-i plug-in hybrid system. The DM-i splits further into Premium and Dynamic variants.

On range, the EV variant is rated for up to 380 km on a full charge. The DM-i variants run up to 45 km on electric power alone. Combined range goes up to 1,340 km, based on an efficiency run BYD Cars Philippines conducted with the Automobile Association of the Philippines.

BYD notes those combined-range numbers aren’t guaranteed. They’ll shift depending on driving habits, traffic, road and weather conditions, vehicle load, and battery condition.

Every Atto 2 variant runs on BYD’s Blade Battery. It’s the same platform the brand leans on for durability and thermal stability across its lineup.

All three variants share the same core safety features and SUV styling. The DM-i Premium stands out as the only variant with DiPilot ADAS on board, alongside a fuller set of comfort and convenience features.

Tech-wise, the EV gets a 12.8-inch touchscreen. The DM-i models come with a 10.1-inch display. Both support smartphone connectivity.

The EV variant also gets Vehicle-to-Load capability. It lets you plug appliances or equipment directly into the car and use it as a power source, whether that’s for a road trip, a weekend outdoors, or backup power when you need it.

Price, availability

From July 28 to August 31, 2026, all Atto 2 variants come with launch offers and financing promos through BPI. Once that period ends, official pricing starting September 1 looks like this:

  • BYD Atto 2 EV: PhP 1,338,000
  • BYD Atto 2 DM-i Premium: PhP 1,258,000
  • BYD Atto 2 DM-i Dynamic: PhP 1,048,000

Every unit comes with an 8-year warranty on the Drive Unit, a 6-year or 160,000 km bumper-to-bumper warranty, and an 8-year or 160,000 km warranty on the Blade Battery.

Color options include Breeze Green, exclusive to the EV; Cosmos Black, exclusive to the DM-i; along with Harbour Grey, Midnight Blue, and Ski White across the lineup.

The Atto 2 launch also kicks off the BYD Tech Tour, running at the Trinoma Activity Center from July 28 to August 2.

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