Tuesday, February 27, 2024

HONOR Debuts a New AI-Empowered All-Scenario Strategy at MWC 2024

HONOR Debuts a New AI-Empowered All-Scenario Strategy at MWC 2024

[BARCELONA, SPAIN – February 2024] Global technology brand, HONOR, revealed its new all-scenario strategy by introducing AI-empowered cross-OS collaboration and human-centric intent-based AI and a suite of smart devices with global partners. 


During its keynote, HONOR not only announced the global launch of the HONOR Magic6 Pro, but also its latest AIPC, the HONOR MagicBook Pro 16, all of which come equipped with HONOR’s platform-level AI to empower human-centric experiences.


"As we race ahead into the AI era, HONOR committed to delivering human-centric innovations that bring open and seamless experience to address our consumers’ desires and pain points,” said George Zhao, CEO of HONOR Device Co., Ltd. “We are delighted to announce the global launch of the new HONOR smartphones and AI PC, which truly revolutionize the user experience with industry-leading AI capabilities, while breaking boundaries in human-device interaction.”


Discover the Magic of AI with HONOR Magic6 Pro        

The latest addition to the prestigious HONOR Magic Series flagship lineup, the HONOR Magic6 Pro boasts advancements in photography, display, performance, and AI-powered user experiences. Driven by its commitment to human-centric innovation, HONOR has unveiled MagicOS 8.0, the latest version of its Android-based operating system that introduces fully empowered HONOR’s platform-level AI and the industry's first intent-based UI. With this, HONOR is transforming the user experience, introducing entirely new, multimodal ways for humans to interact with their smart devices.


Enriched by Magic Capsule and Magic Portal, the HONOR Magic6 Pro provides users with a more personalized, intuitive experience. With a simple tap on the notifications banner at the top of the screen, the Magic Capsule expands to offer additional information and related options, granting users instant access to essential resources and eliminating the need to navigate through multiple apps for maximum productivity and efficiency. Meanwhile, Magic Portal harnesses the power of AI to understand user messaging and behavior, streamlining complex tasks into a single-step process. For example, Magic Portal’s AI quickly recognizes addresses in a text message and directs users to Google Maps, enabling effortless navigation at their fingertips. For social media like TikTok and Facebook, it also streamlines the access and sharing, allowing users to forward booking details or online search results with just a single drag. Furthermore, Magic Portal facilitates image-based shopping experiences, seamlessly guiding users to platforms, where they can find and purchase desired items. 


By working with partners and app developers, Magic Portal supports over 100 most frequently used Apps globally. providing users with a seamless experience across various platforms while ensuring users can enjoy the full potential of Magic Portal with their favorite apps.


HONOR Magic6 Pro 1st place in DXOMARK global battery with a top score of 157. This flagship device has an outstanding camera, audio, display, battery, and selfie capabilities.


A Sneak Peak of Inspiring AI Practice

Embracing an open and collaborative spirit in the AI era, HONOR actively works with industry partners, striving to bring more of the industry's leading technologies to the public. To provide a preview of potential future opportunities, HONOR brings Meta’s open-source LlaMA inside the HONOR Magic6 Pro, which can complete functions such as Q&A, text creation, and reading comprehension in an offline environment. Collaboration within the industry like this can lead to a more imaginative future for users.


Demonstrating the possibilities that smartphone eye-tracking may unlock in the future, HONOR revealed how it is possible to control a car hands-free through the HONOR Magic6 Pro's AI-powered eye-tracking system. The experimental concept showcases how the interplay between AI-enhanced smartphones and vehicles can go beyond screen or voice controls, unlocking a realm of human-device interactions that hold immense possibilities. 


Experience Pro-grade Sportography with HONOR’s AI-powered Falcon Camera System 

As consumers look forward to an exciting year of sporting events, HONOR has made it a priority to deliver sports photography worthy of a gold medal, with improved capture speeds and clearer snapshots. Debuting a new and improved HONOR Falcon Camera System powered by an AI model trained with a database that is 28 times larger over the previous generation, the HONOR Magic6 Pro includes HONOR AI Motion Sensing Capture, an advanced AI capture algorithm that effortlessly predicts and captures decisive moments in ultra-high definition. The advanced HONOR AI Motion Sensing Capture of the HONOR Magic6 Pro surpasses the previous generation by covering a wider range of sports and activities such as jumping, dancing, and martial arts, making it perfect for capturing thrilling moments at sports events and races. 


Additionally, HONOR’s latest camera system introduces a remarkable 180MP Telephoto Camera Lens (f/2.6, OIS)  with 2.5x optical zoom and up to 100x digital zoom. The HONOR Magic6 Pro also features a 50MP Ultra Wide Camera (f/2.0, EIS) and a powerful 50MP main Camera with variable aperture capabilities (f/1.4 and f/2.0, OIS), to capture fast-paced moments in exceptional clarity without compromising on details. 


Unmatched Display with HONOR NanoCrystal Shield

Featuring the industry’s most drop-resistant screen glass to date, the HONOR Magic6 Pro races ahead with improvements in display drop resistance. Verified by SGS’s Five Star Overall Glass Drop Resistance Ability certification in multiple scenarios, the display employs advanced materials with a 50% improvement in crystal density, which enhances its shock absorption capabilities by up to 10 times compared to regular glass. 


In addition to its durability, the HONOR Magic6 Pro features an industry-leading 6.8-inch All-range Low-power LTPO Eye Comfort Display, delivering an exceptional viewing experience while prioritizing users’ well-being with a range of human-centric innovations, including the industry’s highest 4320Hz PWM Dimming, Dynamic Dimming, Customizable Circadian Night Display, and Nature Tone feature.


Powerful Performance Driven by Cross Industry Innovation

The HONOR Magic6 Pro is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 Mobile Platform, bringing a 30% improvement in CPU performance and a 25% increase GPU performance to the new devices. Thanks to the Qualcomm® AI Engine, the AI features on the HONOR Magic6 Pro are supported with exceptional fluency and stability, achieving a remarkable 98% improvement as compared to previous models. Additionally, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 Mobile Platform delivers exceptional gaming experiences at superb battery efficiency and is packed with advancements that redefine powerful performance. 


Recognizing the growing importance of battery life for users who rely on their devices for prolonged usage, HONOR stands out as the first brand to apply emerging battery innovations from other sectors to smartphones. Taking inspiration from the disruptive electric vehicle (EV) industry, HONOR is bringing the all-new HONOR Second-generation Silicon-carbon Battery with HONOR E1, a batter management chipset for energy efficiency enhancement, to the HONOR Magic6 Pro. The 5600 mAh demonstrates exceptional low-temperature performance, users can play the YouTube video for 81 minutes at -20°C with just 10% battery level remaining. In addition, with its 80W HONOR Wired SuperCharge and 66W HONOR Wireless SuperCharge, users can charge up the HONOR Magic6 Pro to 100% in only 40 minutes, enabling the busiest users to swiftly charge their devices on the move. 


Establishing the excellence of the HONOR Magic6 Pro’s advanced battery technology, the device received a distinguished 1st place in DXOMARK global battery ranking with a top score of 157. Also, with the first five DXOMARK labels awarded in 2024, the HONOR Magic6 Pro represents outstanding camera, audio, display, battery and selfie capabilities.


Harnessing AI to Create an All-scenario Interconnected Experience

Enabling an intelligent all-scenario PC experience, HONOR has launched its latest AI-powered laptop, the HONOR MagicBook Pro 16, with the power to empower cross-OS collaboration. Benefit from performance improvements brought by HONOR's platform-level AI with cutting-edge CPU and GPU, the HONOR MagicBook 16 Pro makes sharing notifications and synchronizing materials across HONOR smartphones, PCs, and tablets effortless with MagicRing, ensuring the utmost convenience and easy accessibility. 


Taking the all-scenario experience to a more compact device, HONOR has also released its newest tablet, the HONOR Pad 9. Boasting an impressive 12.1-inch 2.5K HONOR FullView Display with a 120Hz refresh rate, an eight-speaker audio system that incorporates HONOR Histen sound tuning technology. The HONOR Pad 9 is a feature-packed tablet that offers exceptional user experience and a distinctive design.


Teasing the PORSCHE DESIGN HONOR Magic6 RSR

At MWC this year, HONOR has not only officially brought the PORSCHE DESIGN HONOR Magic V2 RSR foldable smartphone to the global stage for the first time, HONOR also unveiled a teaser for the PORSCHE DESIGN HONOR Magic6 RSR, a smartphone that also embodies the DNA of Porsche Design. In terms of product details and market availability, HONOR will provide further information shortly.


Color and Pricing 

Designed for users who prefer a sleek, modern style and a timeless appeal, the HONOR Magic6 Pro will be available in Black and Epi Green.  Paying tribute to iconic Porsche cars, the PORSCHE DESIGN HONOR Magic V2 RSR is available in Agate Grey.

The HONOR MagicBook 16 Pro will be available in two colors: White and Midnight Black. And for HONOR Pad 9, it comes in two stunning colorways, Space Grey and Cyan Lake, the HONOR Pad 9. 


For more information, please visit HONOR official website at  www.hihonor.com. 


Jollibee Ranks as Second Fastest-Growing Restaurant Brand in the World

MANILA, Philippines. 27 February 2024 – Jollibee has been recognized as the second fastest-growing restaurant brand in the world, according to the latest annual brand ranking report by Brand Finance, the world’s leading independent brand valuation agency. Surging by an impressive 51% to USD 2.3 billion in brand value, Jollibee ascended from rank 20 to rank 17 in this year’s Global Restaurant Rankings.

The brand further solidified its position by achieving fifth place in the strongest restaurant brand category, elevating its rating from AA- to AAA. In addition, Jollibee is the only Philippine brand listed in the 2024 Top 25 Most Valuable Restaurant Brands and Top 10 Strongest Restaurant Brands.


“We thank our loyal customers for their love for Jollibee, allowing us to grow the brand further and reach more people in various parts of the world,” said Jollibee Group President and CEO Ernesto Tanmantiong. “Being ranked as the second fastest growing brand in the world validates the effective work of all the leaders and teams of Jollibee—past and present—whose commitment to the brand and its customers has helped drive the brand’s sustained growth over the years.”


Confidence in Jollibee’s Strategic Direction


Jollibee, the flagship global brand within the Jollibee Group's extensive portfolio of 18 brands, originated in the Philippines in 1978. The brand has since grown to encompass 1,668 locations across 17 countries as of January 2024. 


Richard Shin, Chief Financial Officer of Jollibee Group, expressed confidence in the brand's strategic direction, stating, “This valuation from Brand Finance gives us confidence that we are on the right track in our strategic goals for the brand. Jollibee’s ability to resonate with consumers across diverse markets and cultures opens opportunities for further expansion and growth, enhancing the potential for better shareholder value to investors and franchisees.”


Global Appeal. Jollibee continues to captivate global audiences with its great-tasting products at affordable fare, supported by a cohesive restaurant system that positions the brand for success across markets. 


Jollibee’s Growth Momentum


Brand Finance's latest report attributes Jollibee's remarkable financial performance and sustained momentum to its robust expansion initiatives, particularly in international markets. Emphasizing a diverse menu of exceptionally tasty, high-quality, and affordable fare, the brand continues to captivate global audiences.


The Chief Marketing Officer of Jollibee Group, David Beal, emphasized, “Jollibee’s impressive brand value growth is a testament to the Jollibee Group’s expertise in building brands that are craved globally. Our growth is underpinned by delicious offerings, a compelling brand proposition, and a cohesive restaurant system that positions us for success across markets.”


To sustain its growth momentum, Jollibee remains steadfast in expanding its store network in key markets such as the United States and the Europe, Middle East, Asia, and Australia (EMEAA) region, while sustaining market leadership in the Philippines.

 

Sustained Growth. Jollibee is now present in 17 countries with 1,668 store locations – and counting. The recent milestone opening in Canada is the brand’s 100th store in North America and is part of the Jollibee Group’s aggressive growth plans for 2024. 


Strong Brand Love for Jollibee


The brand has recently marked a significant milestone by inaugurating its 100th store in North America, with the first customer lining up for 20 hours before the store opening. 


The same passionate demonstration of brand love has been consistent across store openings in new markets, with massive crowds queuing for long hours—some camping out the night before or braving freezing temperatures—to be the first to taste Jollibee’s signature crispy and juicy fried chicken called Jolly Crispy Chicken in North America and Chickenjoy in the Philippines and other markets. This bestselling product has been voted a fan favorite across markets in Asia, Europe, and North America. 


Other bestsellers that turn customers into loyal fans of Jollibee include the Chicken Sandwich, a crispy, juicy chicken breast fillet with umami mayo in a toasted brioche bun; and the Peach Mango Pie, made with peaches and Philippine mangoes tucked in a warm, light, and crispy crust. 


 

Brand Love Across Geographies and Generations. The support of loyal customers across generations and locations has solidified Jollibee’s position as a well-loved global restaurant brand. 


Fujifilm Expands Presence with New Office in Cebu City

FUJIFILM CEBU
L-R_ FUJIFILM BI PH Hideaki Kato and FFPH President Masahiro Uehara at the ribbon cutting ceremony this morning

In response to the surging demand for its products and services, FUJIFILM Philippines Inc. (FFPH) and FUJIFILM Business Innovation Philippines Corp. (FUJIFILM BI PH) have announced the relocation of their offices to a larger space in Cebu City.

The new office, strategically situated at Mercedes Benz Tower, Mindanao Ave Cebu Business Park, Cebu City, marks a significant move for the global leaders in innovation. This expansion aims to strengthen Fujifilm's foothold in the region, enabling the brand to better cater to the local market and provide an enhanced experience for customers.

The Cebu City office will serve as a hub for after-sales support, featuring a local repair center for digital cameras and endoscopy products. Additionally, it will host a showroom showcasing advanced cameras, cutting-edge printing machines, and business software solutions, offering customers an interactive experience with Fujifilm's latest innovations in imaging and document management technology.

FUJIFILM CEBU OPENING
L-R_FFPH President Masahiro Uehara, Cebu City Vice Mayor Raymond Alvin Garcia, and FUJIFILM BI PH Hideaki Kato, at the ribbon cutting ceremony this morning

Mr. Masahiro Uehara, President of FFPH, expressed confidence in the strategic move, stating, "This relocation reinforces our commitment to swiftly expand our local operations, making our products and services more accessible to the southern part of the country."

Adding his perspective, Mr. Hideaki Kato, President of FUJIFILM BI PH, mentioned FUJIFILM BI PH has almost 60-years’ experience in the Philippines and continuously provides document process innovation for Cebu customers. He also highlighted the synergy between the two entities, stating, "We are proud to unveil this new office, bringing us closer to our customers in Cebu and emphasizing the collaboration between FUJIFILM Business Innovation Philippines and FUJIFILM Philippines."

Fujifilm, renowned for its relentless pursuit of technological advancements and customer-focused solutions, leverages its photographic industry expertise to push growth in healthcare, materials, and business innovation. The company's new group purpose, "Giving our world more smiles," underscores its commitment to creating a brighter future in society.

For more information, visit www.fujifilm.com/ph & www.fujifilm.com/fbph.