News

Xiaomi debuts the XRING O1, their self-developed 3nm silicon chip

Powering both the Xiaomi 15S Pro and Xiaomi Pad 7 Ultra

Published

May 22, 2025

Vincenz

As the world continues to revolve, tech innovations evolve further. This is where Xiaomi has decided to take all the guts against all odds.

From having a plethora of smart appliances to manufacturing their own EVs, the homegrown brand has finally made their very first self-developed Silicon chips for their new devices. Meet the Xiaomi XRING.

First take: Xiaomi Silicon

We know by now that Xiaomi isn’t the first-ever Chinese brand to develop their own chips. The crown definitely goes to its closest rival, HUAWEI with its Kirin chips. However, it’s still a great milestone for the Chinese giant to bring in their own Silicon chip for mass production.

The XRING O1 is the brand’s first-ever SoC that’s based on a 2nd-gen 3nm process — even powerful than what its Chinese competitor offers.

That makes the XRING O1 stand in the same league as Apple’s A18 Pro equipped in the latest iPhone 16 Pro series, as well as Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite chip found on most Android flagships — the Xiaomi 15 Pro not an exemption.

Xiaomi’s new Silicon SoC features a 10-core CPU with dual Cortex-X925 cores at 3.9GHz, 16-core Immortalis-G925 GPU, 6-core NPU, and 19 billion transistors offering 44 TOPS for an enhanced and advanced AI processing. The brand’s 4th-generation ISP (Image Signal Processing) is also included.

Other than that, Xiaomi has also introduced the XRING T1 that enables eSIM support in future smartwatches. This self-developed chip also provides 35% better 4G performance with reduced power consumption when using the watch for voice calls and data.

There are also more features such as remote camera preview and smartphone-free control of Xiaomi EVs.

This will power Xiaomi’s 15th Anniversary Edition of the Watch S4 15th Anniversary Edition.

Rebadged: Xiaomi 15S Pro

The Xiaomi 15S Pro is the first-ever smartphone to run the XRING O1 SoC. The new cooling design, four dynamic low-power modes, and a dedicated micro-control unit all make for a boosted heat dissipation by 30%.

In a nutshell, it’s just a rebadged Xiaomi 15 Pro with the XRING chip. But to spice things up more than its in-house chipset, the 15S Pro is offered in two new finishes.

There’s the Composite Fiber Edition made with aramid fiber in a carbon fiber-like texture. Meanwhile, there’s the Sky Blue colorway that incorporates a matte fiberglass back. It also adds more premium embellishments such as the “XRING” nameplate, gold-accented CNC power key, and an exclusive packaging.

All the great things from the Xiaomi 15 Pro still remain such as the class-leading imaging with Leica Summilux triple-lens system, micro-curved 6.73-inch LTPO AMOLED 2K display, 6,100 mAh battery. Lastly, the speedy 90W wired HyperCharge and 50W wireless charging with Surge G1 battery management chip and a Surge P3 charging chip for better battery longevity.

The Xiaomi 15S Pro is being sold in China in two configurations:

16 + 512GB = CNY 5499 (US$ 765 / EUR 675 / GBP 570 / SG$ 985 / PhP 42,430 / INR 65,285)
16 + 1TB = CNY 5999 (US$ 835 / EUR 740 / GBP 620 / SG$ 1075 / PhP 46,290 / INR 71,220)

All-new: Xiaomi Pad 7 Ultra

Other than rocking Xiaomi’s first ever Silicon chip, the Xiaomi Pad 7 Ultra is also the company’s first “Ultra” tablet — and their first OLED tablet as well.

The first Xiaomi Ultra tablet boasts a massive 14-inch 3.2K OLED display with 1600 nits of peak brightness. Shockingly, its ultra-slim metal unibody is also 5.1 mm thin — much like the latest M4 iPad Pro 13-inch — and weighs just 609 grams with promised durability with its aerospace-grade structural reinforcement.

For the fullest entertainment, the Pad 7 Ultra has an eight-speaker sound system with 150W peak output. It also has a 32MP ultra-wide front camera and a 50MP rear camera.

Moreover, it has a 12,000mAh battery, 120W HyperCharge speeds, and Wi-Fi 7 support. Xiaomi’s Lab test says full charge enables up to 18.95 hours of continuous video playback. Meanwhile, standby time reaches 61 days and up to 528 days in ultra-power-saving standby mode.

All of these are backed by Xiaomi’s HyperOS 2. The revamped OS is even more optimized for tablets with better multitasking, cross-device integration, and a smoother, more seamless AI capabilities.

Lastly, there’s a special keyboard for the Xiaomi Pad 7 Ultra that is crafted from premium magnesium alloy. Angle adjustments are possible between 0 to 124-degrees all thanks to its smooth, precision-tuned hinge.

For a full-on PC-like experience, it has full-size backlit keys and an oversized haptic touchpad paired with multi-touch gestures and edge rejection.

The Xiaomi Pad 7 Ultra is available in Misty Purple and Classic Black variants, alongside these configurations:

12 + 256GB = CNY 5699 (US$ 795 / EUR 700 / GBP 590 / SG$ 1020 / PhP 43,970 / INR 67,670)
12 + 512GB = CNY 5999 (US$ 835 / EUR 740 / GBP 620 / SG$ 1075 / PhP 46,290 / INR 71,220)
12 + 512GB Soft Light Edition = CNY 6599 (US$ 920 / EUR 810 / GBP 680 / SG$ 1185 / PhP 50,915 / INR 78,340)
16 + 1TB = CNY 6799 (US$ 945 / EUR 835 / GBP 700 / SG$ 1220 / PhP 52,460 / INR 80,715)
16 + 1TB Soft Light Edition = CNY 7399 (US$ 1030 / EUR 910 / GBP 765 / SG$ 1325 / PhP 57,090 / INR 87,840)

More & More: Ecosystem

Other than the groundbreaking announcements, Xiaomi has also announced a barrage of AIoT products in Beijing, China.

Mijia Fresh Air Conditioner Pro Dual-Outlet Vertical 3HP = CNY 8999 (US$ 1250 / EUR 1105 / GBP 930 / SG$ 1620 / PhP 69,440 / INR 106,840)

This is one of the two Mijia-branded air conditioners by Xiaomi. advanced dual-outlet, four-zone airflow system powered by dual millimeter-wave radar and intelligent algorithms.

It detects up to six people in the room and can adjust wind direction in real time with modes like “wind-follows-person” and “wind-avoids-person” for maximized comfort.

There’s also multi-directional zone control that eliminates the discomfort of direct airflow. Even so, a wide-angle air delivery of 160-degrees.

Health benefits wise, Xiaomi integrates its negative ion purification alongside a high-grade HEPA filter. This air conditioner can remove 99 percent of pollutants like PM2.5, bacteria, and even unwanted viruses.

Mijia Air Conditioner Pro SkyFlow 1.5HP = CNY 3999 (US$ 555 / EUR 490 / GBP 415 / SG$ 720 / PhP 30,860 / INR 47,480)

This is another new air conditioner in the lineup that features a radar-based human perception system through Xiaomi’s AI engine and mmWave arrays that can actively detect user movement within a 180-degree range. From there, it can automatically switch between gentle and direct airflow modes.

Moreover, it’s also energy-efficient that can save over 360 kWh of power consumption annually. In China, it has an APF of 5.65 — that’s already above the national Grade 1 standards.

In terms of hygiene, it meets China’s Mother & Baby certification, integrating HEPA filtration, 56 °C high-temp cleaning, and smart reminders via the Mi Home app for long-term peace of mind. With an elegant silver finish, slim 2 cm install gap, and central AC-inspired design, it blends aesthetic appeal with practical innovation for the modern home.

Mijia Refrigerator Pro Dual-System French Door Built-In 508L = CNY 4999 (US$ 695 / EUR 615 / GBP 515 / SG$ 895 / PhP 38,570 / INR 59,350)

Another new product by Xiaomi is this pro-grade French Door refrigerator. Its exterior exudes a glass panel and built-in hinges. Even if you place it near a wall, its doors open a full 90-degree angle for easier access.

But aside from its looks, what makes it even more special is its independent dual-system design.

There are separate evaporators for both the fridge and freezer to prevent odor mixing. Additionally, a humidity-controlled drawer with molecular sieve tech can keep produce fresh. Another adjustable drawer offers multiple modes for meat, baby food, or 0-degree (bing) chilling. (Sorry, pun-intended)

Speaking of, the freezer can deep freeze as low as -30 degrees.

An ultra-thin fan also ensures no waste of precious fridge space. Active ion and silver-ion sterilization are also present to ensure purification of the entire storage space

Mijia Dual-Drum Washer Dryer Pro 10kg = CNY 5499 (US$ 765 / EUR 675 / GBP 570 / SG$ 985 / PhP 42,430 / INR 65,285)

Miji’s all-new washer-dryer combo features Blue Oxygen cleaning tech focusing in hygiene. This electrochemical system breaks down stains and deep-cleans whites without the incoporation of harsh chemicals that are harmful for sensitive skin and disrupts long-term fabric care.

Dual-zone washing also allows simultaneous washing and drying with a dedicated small drum for delicates, preventing cross-contamination.

In addition, the Mijia Washer Dryer Pro also includes additional features like triple smart detergent dispensing, steam sterilization, stain-specific modes, as well as dual quick-wash modes. To make it even smarter, there’s Smart Scheduling and app integration for added convenience.

Mijia Smart Dual-tap Water Purifier Pro 1600G = CNY 2999 (US$ 420 / EUR 370 / GBP 310 / SG$ 540 / PhP 23,140 / INR 35,600)

This smart water purifier has an intelligent, dual-outlet design that separates purified drinking water from household water. It can also fill a standard water glass in under two seconds and supports sustained output up to 25 tons — very ideal for big families.

Thanks to Xiaomi’s Zero Stale Water 3.0, it ensures fresh water with every use. Operation is also quiet with its six-chamber low-noise pump. Worried about technical issues? Well, the smart faucet has IPX7 waterproofing and a luxurious electroplated finish.

The advanced PPC filter also removes over 99.5% residual chlorine. Meanwhile, the premium Toray RO filter offers a six-year lifespan.

It won’t be “smart” without app integration via the Mi Home app. It’s where users can check TDS levels, track filter life, and customize four dispensing modes.

Xiaomi TV S Mini LED 2025

Last but definitely not the least, the only Xiaomi-branded product in this new product line.

Instead of the usual LCD offerings, the new Xiaomi TV S brings a better quality Mini LED display with advanced backlight control and an anti-reflective coating with only 1.8 percent of reflectivity — better than standard TVs around.

The 98-inch model has 1092 local dimming zones and can achieve up to 1700 nits of peak brightness. There’s also a fluid 144Hz refresh rate meant for gamers and sports enthusiasts.

And with Xiaomi’s in-house picture engine and color management system, expect vivid visuals with utmost color accuracy.

This new TV series also runs Xiaomi HyperOS 2 with personalized lock screens and an improved user interface.

The Xiaomi TV S Mini LED 2025 comes in four sizes:

55-inch = CNY 2999 (US$ 420 / EUR 370 / GBP 310 / SG$ 540 / PhP 23,140 / INR 35,600)
65-inch CNY 3999 (US$ 555 / EUR 490 / GBP 415 / SG$ 720 / PhP 30,860 / INR 47,480)
75-inch = CNY 4999 (US$ 695 / EUR 615 / GBP 515 / SG$ 895 / PhP 38,570 / INR 59,350)
85-inch = CNY 6799(US$ 945 / EUR 835 / GBP 700 / SG$ 1220 / PhP 52,460 / INR 80,715)
98-inch = CNY 9999 (US$ 1390 / EUR 1230 / GBP 1032 / SG$ 1790 / PhP 77,150 / INR 118,710)

Features

Inside Infinix’s first global concept store in Bali

Infinix’s first global concept store pairs gadgets with a coffee bar and a robotic arm.

Published

November 2, 2026

MJ Jucutan and Noela

Bali is an island people visit to slow down. It makes sense that Infinix picked it for a store that wants you to stay awhile.

The brand unveiled its first global Flagship Concept Store there. It’s also the first store of this format within parent company Transsion Holdings’ brand portfolio.

Coffee break, Infinix style

The experience begins before you step inside. The store’s futuristic design and digital visuals are meant to catch your eye from the outside.

Once you’re in, a robotic-arm installation anchors the space, which looks like a technological imagination turned into a bold visual statement.

The store’s other signature element is n_x, Infinix’s locally developed coffee brand. For Infinix, a simple coffee break here is an invitation to slow down and enjoy a laid-back moment in the middle of a busy day.

You can catch up with a friend over a cup or take a few minutes for yourself. Together with the robotic arm, n_x gives the store a more relaxed and imaginative side.

The tech hasn’t gone anywhere, though. The smartphone lineup includes the NOTE 60 and HOT 70 series along with the GT 50 Pro.

Infinix’s broader AIoT ecosystem is on display as well, with recent products like the ZCLIP 2 Pro clip-on earbuds and SPACE Max wireless headphones.

The XEnergy portable power stations are also part of the lineup.

Making Sense of “1+2+X”

Infinix calls the format its “1+2+X” retail concept. The “1” is the full technology experience, and the “2” refers to the two signature elements, n_x and the robotic arm.

The “X” is the open-ended part. Infinix plans on bringing gaming, music, sports, creative partnerships, interactive content, and community activities over time.

The brand wants to work with artists, musicians, and other creative talents on original content and experiences, rather than only featuring established names or one-off partnerships.

Visitors can also take part through shared experiences, content creation, and feedback. The plan is for the store to keep introducing new collaborations, creative displays, and lifestyle activities after opening, so regulars have fresh reasons to return.

Beyond Bali

Looking ahead, Infinix hopes the Bali store develops a recognizable identity of its own and becomes a destination people return to for its atmosphere and community as much as its products.

The brand also says this opening is the start of a broader retail push, with five more flagship stores planned across Indonesia this year.

Similar concept-led stores are also being explored in other markets. Infinix states that future locations won’t copy the Bali format and will be adapted to local cultures and lifestyles.

Lifestyle

Sticker season is back, and so is the planner your ~friends~ might fill in for you

Starbucks Traditions turns 24 with five pieces in the 2027 collection!

Published

October 31, 2026

MJ Jucutan

There are two kinds of people during the holidays: those who start planning their Christmas shopping early and those who hear the word merienda and immediately calculate how many Starbucks drinks stand between them and a new planner.

If you belong to the latter, consider this your annual reminder. Starbucks Traditions returns to the Philippines on November 3 for its 24th year, bringing a bigger collection with five pieces this time around. And suddenly, your afternoon coffee plans have acquired a very specific financial objective.

The 2026 collection carries the theme “Wrapped in Joy,” celebrating the little surprises that make the holidays feel special.

Think thoughtful gestures, unexpected visits, and friends who actually follow through on plans. You know, the rarest Christmas miracle of all.

Finally, someone is making plans for the planner

Starbucks is giving this year’s campaign a little emotional backstory with “Kami Naman,” a holiday film about Mara, the friend who somehow became the designated organizer of every barkada gathering.

You know her. She’s the one who starts the group chat, finds the restaurant, checks everyone’s availability, and sends the follow-up message when nobody responds.

This time, her friends decide she’s had enough administrative duties for one lifetime. They surprise her at Starbucks with a planner already filled with gatherings they’ve organized for her throughout the year.

Set to Eraserheads’ “With a Smile,” the film is a sweet reminder that the friend who makes everyone else’s holidays special deserves a little magic herself. The song will also be playing in Starbucks stores from November 3 to January 4.

You can watch the full film on Starbucks Philippines’ social media channels. Consider forwarding it to your group chat, particularly if you have been carrying the entire social calendar on your back.

Why your current coffee accessories suddenly feel inadequate

This year’s collection looks ready to be wrapped and placed under the Christmas tree, with copper, ivory, and black setting the mood. Each piece has its own appeal, which makes choosing a favorite a rather complicated exercise in holiday budgeting.

The Siren Planner with Pouch is for the organized one who has approximately 47 things to remember and would prefer to make that 48 with a beautiful planner. It also comes with a surprise keychain in one of five designs, giving you another tiny mystery to obsess over.

The Travel Case with Towel makes its debut in the collection, and suddenly, the idea of booking a little getaway sounds very reasonable. You may have nowhere to go yet, but at least your travel essentials will be beautifully organized when the opportunity presents itself.

For your everyday caffeine arrangements, there’s the 20oz Stainless Steel Tumbler and the 24oz Cold Cup. Both are practical additions to your daily rotation, although you may find yourself explaining why you need another drinking vessel when your kitchen cabinet is already staging a protest.

Then there’s the 20oz Glass Mug, which is arguably the most emotionally persuasive purchase of the bunch.

You don’t necessarily need another mug. You simply deserve one that makes your morning coffee feel a little more special. That’s a perfectly respectable argument, as far as your holiday shopping budget is concerned.

The 19-sticker strategy

Now comes the part that requires a little planning. From November 3, 2026 to January 4, 2027, every Tall, Grande, or Venti handcrafted beverage earns you one e-sticker. You can collect them through the Starbucks PH App or a QR Promo Card.

Reach 19 e-stickers and you can redeem one piece from the 2027 Starbucks Traditions collection until March 5, 2027.

The strategy is fairly straightforward. You order your usual handcrafted beverage, invite your friends for merienda, and let the stickers accumulate. Suddenly, that afternoon coffee with your best friend has a second purpose, and your usual catch-up session feels a little more productive.

Before committing to a particular piece, take a look at the full collection at starbuckstraditions.ph. You might already have your eye on the planner, or you could find yourself unexpectedly falling for the glass mug. Either way, knowing what you’re collecting for makes the sticker-counting considerably more exciting.

Since its Philippine debut in 2004, Starbucks Traditions has become one of those holiday rituals that people look forward to every year. It’s the season of comparing sticker counts, coordinating coffee runs, and celebrating the little rewards that make an ordinary afternoon feel festive.

Gaming

FromSoftware’s The Duskbloods delayed to 2027

The game needs more development time.

Published

October 30, 2026

Luigi Leonardo

It’s been a while since the last time we got a FromSoftware game. Elden Ring Nightreign felt like an age ago, even if it was launched just last year. Plus, the title isn’t even a new one, technically, since it’s just building off of Elden Ring. Unfortunately, our wait for a new FromSoftware game has to go on for a little bit longer. FromSoftware has delayed the launch of The Duskbloods to 2027.

The Duskbloods is an interesting addition to the FromSoftware oeuvre. Compared to the usual fare, the Switch-exclusive title is a multiplayer extraction game with a distinctly Bloodborne-like feel. If you’re used to FromSoftware’s usual formula, The Duskbloods represents a huge change.

But it’s a welcome one, nonetheless. If the recently released Elden Ring port of the Switch 2 is any indication, FromSoftware does have a handle of what performance looks like on the console.

Sadly, the new title needs a bit more time in the oven. Citing “final adjustments to game rules and balancing,” FromSoftware is delaying the launch of the game to 2027. According to the studio, this is in response to the successful network test a while back.

The delay shouldn’t come off as a surprise. Though the studio promised a 2026 launch for the title, most of the year has passed without a definite launch date. That was already a telltale sign that a delay was coming.

At the very least, the delay comes with the benefit of launching the game farther away from Grand Theft Auto VI and the Ocarina of Time remake, which will surely dominate holiday gaming this year.