SUNDAY STAR, 18 SEPTEMBER 2016

TECH WORLD
The solution
revolution

2 Tech World
MALAYSIA, like its many
South-East Asian counterparts,
is experiencing an unprecedented
growth in communication and
mobile technology.
This development is due to the
increased use of mobile devices
such as smartphones, tablets and
notebooks with easy Internet
access.
With smartphones being the
most popular mobile device these
days, children who use them are
exposed to various risks on the
Internet.
It is the responsibility of the
public, private corporations and
families to play a part in educating
children about Internet etiquette
and how to be responsible and safe
online.
In 2014, Digi conducted a survey
in which half of the respondents
admitted that their children were
unsupervised when they surfed the
Internet.
As of today, as many as one
in four Malaysian schoolchildren
have reported cases of
cyberbullying, significantly among
children between 13 and 15 years
old.
Nearly three in four kids
have experienced online
harassments such as being called
mean names and sharing or
posting of inappropriate messages
and pictures.
However, two-thirds of children
feel that their actions such as
sending improper texts, posting
inappropriate photos and
pretending to be someone else is
not considered cyberbullying.
Cyberbullies tend to not realise
that their actions can bring about
negative consequences and they
are in fact the perpetrators of
cyberbullying.

The yellow cape

As part of Digis Customer
First Day (CFD) happening on
Sept 29, the telecommunications
company will be bringing its
anti-cyberbullying message to the
public.
CFD is an annual event where
the company mobilises its
employees (Digizens) nationwide to
flood the streets in six major cities
nationwide to introduce to
customers and empower them
with exciting digital services made
available on Digis Internet service.
This year, CFD will see Digizens
going around town to also share
the message on cyberbullying and
raise awareness about the issue.
CFD will remain a priority for
Digi in the coming years as a strong
reminder of whats truly important
to our business our customers

SUNDAY STAR, 18 SEPTEMBER 2016

A safer
space

The Internet should be a safe network for people of all ages to connect with one another.
and the need to bring the best of
the Internet to them, says Albern
Murty, chief excutive officer of
Digi.
This year, we are adding the
element of online safety and aim
to make a stronger stand against
cyberbullying when we meet our
customers on Sept 29.
Digi CyberSAFE is a joint effort
between Digi, CyberSecurity
Malaysia, the Education Ministry,
Unicef Malaysia, Childline
Malaysia, Protect and Save the
Children, and the Malaysian
Communications and Multimedia
Commission (MCMC) to create
awareness and educate children
on digital safety and
cyberbullying.
Since 2011, Digi has been
conducting talks and training
programmes through various
educational resources to more
than 100,000 schoolchildren,
teachers and parents in various
communities, including the urban
poor in Malaysia.
In the past few years, Digi has
also published Internet safety
guidelines, parental guidebooks
and nationwide surveys to further
build digital resilience among
Malaysians.

Digi CyberSAFE is part

of the Telenor Groups
global initiative and
commitment to
provide safe Internet
in all the countries that
the group operates in.
The company has collaborated
with its partners to organise child
online protection workshops for
non-governmental organisations,
law authorities as well as at town
halls for public engagement.
Digi CyberSAFE is part of the
Telenor Groups global initiative
and commitment to provide safe
Internet in all the countries that
the group operates in.
Telenor Norway and partners
created a national programme
against cyberbullying in 2009,
which reached hundreds of schools
with the purpose of educating kids,
parents and teachers about
cyberbullying.
This has resulted in three out
of four kids who are part of the

Digi aims to provide a safer online experience for children through its
anti-cyberbullying initiatives.
programme to avoid bullying via a
mobile phone and on the Internet.
In comparing Digis CyberSAFE
survey conducted in 2013 and last
year, there have been noticeable
improvements in schoolchildrens
online resiliency skills and ability
to identify the reporting channels
to support networks.
Following up from Digis
Customer First Day will be a
special Digi-hosted carnival called
Us vs Cuberbullying on Oct 1 from
10am to 5pm at PJ Boulevard in
Petaling Jaya, where visitors can
drop by to learn more about the

Exploring together
PARENTS play a huge role when it
comes to a childs Internet privilege.
Parents not only provide devices and
infrastructure so that their children can
explore the cyber world, they also hold
the responsibility of educating their
children about the dos and donts of
online safety.

Start a conversation
Open and honest communication is
key when speaking to your children, so
set aside time to listen to them.
Sit them down and discuss the
benefits and risks of the Internet
from learning and social networking
to providing entertainment and
creating opportunities.
In the same conversation, have a
realistic plan to help them prevent
Internet misuse and understand what
constitutes good digital citizenship
behaviour.

Use a language that is best suited to

your relationship to create a safe, open
dialogue. If your children already use the
Internet, find out what sites and apps
they are using, how these apps work, and
whether they have had any challenges
with them such as contact with strangers
or experiences of cyberbullying.
Let your children know that if someone
is making them feel uncomfortable or
saying harmful or hurtful things to or
against them online, they have the right
to block or report these incidences.

Internet etiquette
There is basic etiquette that we should
follow online. It is important to teach
your children to ask themselves Should
I really be posting this? and Will
someone be hurt or offended by this
post?.
Encouraging them to take 10 to 30
seconds to review what they post online

and its repercussions is part of parents

social responsibility.

Create rules
Create general online rules and the
acceptable conduct to keep your children
safe and smart.
Empower your children with strong
digital resiliency skills so that they are
able to identify and act against improper
conduct or unsolicited online approaches.
When your children decide to join
social media, set profile security settings
together and choose security and privacy
options that both parties are most
comfortable with.
Help children learn the importance of
setting privacy options and to avoid social
media networks, apps or chatrooms that
may pose possible exploitation and risks.

n For more information, visit

www.digi.com.my.

issue and what can be done to

keep children and Internet users
in general safer online.
There will we educational talks
from experts regarding
cyberbullying as well as
entertainment from popular local
celebrities who will also be sharing
their own experiences.
Admission is free and families
can drop by to enjoy an amazing
array of activities such as a bag
jump, virtual reality games, laser
tag, futuristic cycles, Playstation
games, food trucks and many
more.

SUNDAY STAR, 18 SEPTEMBER 2016

4 Tech World

SUNDAY STAR, 18 SEPTEMBER 2016

Never miss
a moment
THE Casio Sheen SHB-100 is a
smartwatch designed based on the
concept of Elegant, Smart and
Shining for the modern,
sophisticated woman.
Part of the Casio Sheen Time
Ring series, the SHB-100 is the first
line of watches for women from
Casio that links to a smartphone,
thus providing accurate time for
women on the go.

Time after time

The Sheen SHB-100 displays
both world and home time
simultaneously on the main watch
dial and inset dial. The inset dial at
the eight oclock position is
designed with twin rings motif to
further accentuate the dual-time
function paired with a
chic design.
What truly sets the
Sheen SHB-100 apart
from the rest is its
global time-keeping
ability, thanks to the
Global Time Sync
concept by Casio.
With this
concept, Casio
was able to
develop the
G-SHOCK and
OCEANUS
timepieces
with GPS
Hybrid Wave
Ceptor
technology that
receives GPS satellite
and radio wave time
calibration signals,
thus pioneering the
development of analogue
watches that link with
smartphones.
In translating this
technology for the needs
of women, the SHB-100
can be linked to a
smartphone through the
Casio Watch+ smartphone
application via the Bluetooth Smart
communication. With this
application, users are able to access

auto-time settings for up to 300

cities worldwide.
The application allows you to set
both the world and home time,
which will then sync with your
watch. The app also allows you to
swap between home and world
time at your convenience.
With a two-metre smartphoneto-watch signal range, you can
toggle and set your watch time
setting even when the watch is not
being worn.
However, if you are travelling
and do not have Internet access,
fret not. You can toggle between
home and global time manually
with the push of a button on the
side of the timepiece.
In addition to the time-setting
feature, the Sheen SHB-100 comes
with a phone finder and alert.
The Sheen SHB-100 truly
makes its mark with its long
battery life and solar-charging
system, thanks to the
shadow-dispersing solar
panel on the face.
This effective energy
source technology not
only supports the
regular watch
functions but also
enables the watch
to perform linked
functions with a
smartphone.
At full charge, the
Sheen SHB-100 can
last up to 22 months
on the power-saving
mode. In this mode, the
hands of the watch will
stop when placed in the
dark for an extended period
of time and will reactivate in
the presence of light.
However, the Sheen SHB-100
is able to alert users in the
event of a low battery charge.

Style is eternal
The Sheen SHB-100 is the true
epitome of fashion meets
functionality, with its soft-coloured
interface with a pair of Swarovski

The SHB-100 pairs with smartphones via the Casio Watch+ application and has access to auto-time settings of
300 cities worldwide.
crystals embellishing the 12 oclock
position and a fully automated
calendar with date display.
The case features a wide
sparkling face with
multidimensional index markings
for optimum readability, using
microscopic techniques developed
by the Yamagata Casio Factory in
Japan.
The SHB-100 comes in three

colours: silver, bi-colour and peach

gold. Both the bi-colour and peach
gold colours are ion-platted to
ensure vivid colour and superior
shine.
These features further
emphasise Casios commitment in
producing timepieces beyond its
rugged line-up paving the way
for a new range of watches for its
style-conscious female customers

Water resistance

in the SHB-100 and the Sheen

series.
The SHB-100 ensures that the
modern woman is always on
time, wherever she goes. The
SHB-100 is currently only
available at G-Factory outlets
nationwide.

n For more information, visit

www.casio-intl.com

5 bar

Communication
specifications

Communication standard

Bluetooth Smart

Signal range

Up to 2m (may differ depending on surrounding conditions)

Watch functions

Dual time

Home city time swapping

Other features

Mobile link functions (world time: more than 300 cities, one-touch
time adjustment, auto time adjustment, phone finder, etc), full
auto-calendar and low-battery alert

Power source

Tough solar power system (solar-charging system)

Continuous operation

About 22 months with the power-saving function, only after full

charge (hands stop to save power when the watch is left in the
dark)

Size of case

40.2mm x 35.0mm x 10.3mm

Total weight

Approximately 85g

Model

Colour

Ion plating

SHB-100-4A

Silver

N/A

SHB-100SG-7A

Bi-colour

Yes

SHB-100CG-4A

Peach gold

Yes

For him and

for her

With its elegant design and function, the SHB-100 is a timepiece for those
who are chic and trendy.

Casio strives to create the

best timepieces for both
men and women through
exquisite design and
superior function.
Casios series of
Smartphone Link Bluetooth
watches are the best choice for
those who are constantly on the
go and want to be on point for
their engagements with the
convenience of Casios Time
Travel feature.
The Edifice EQB-600 for him
and the Sheen SHB-100 for her
are part of Casios Smartphone
Link Bluetooth watches that
sync perfectly with the Casio
Watch+ app on both Apple and

Android devices.
These watches also come in
exclusive designs to attract men
and women who are uber
travellers.
The Bluetooth function allows

for easy time

setting while you
are in transit or
travelling.
The timeswapping feature
in both watches
allows users to keep
track of and toggle
between home as well
as world time manually
or using the Casio Watch+
app.
Casio will continue to
strive and create timepieces that
are both elegant and classic
paired with sophisticated
functions through wireless
technology.

SUNDAY STAR, 18 SEPTEMBER 2016

6 Tech World

SUNDAY STAR, 18 SEPTEMBER 2016

Life in the
tech lane
By NISSHANTHAN DHANAPALAN

WHAT would our lives be without

technology? It is almost impossible
for us to imagine such a thing. We
have become so comfortable with
technology that we find it difficult
to live, work or play without it.
The advances in technology,
especially those involving work
and lifestyle, have undergone
many phases, including lifestyle
modification, integration and
miniaturisation.
Costs of gadgets and equipment
are also declining as more
developed and sophisticated
technologies are churned out
a consistent trend predicted by
Gordon Moore, the co-founder of
Intel and Fairchild Semiconductor
suggesting that our lives revolve
around technology so much that it
has influenced the way we live and
changed the course of civilisation.

to transmit data to Earth, its basic

operational principal is the same as
the Dutch telescope.
What was initially invented as a
tool to observe something at a
distance has now shed light on the
mysteries of our universe.
The first computer was invented
by Alan Turing, a British
mathematician who was tasked to
decode Enigma (codes used by the
Nazis) to pass secret messages in
World War II.
Fast forward to today, the
computer has evolved
tremendously and is now used in
myriad applications from the
digital interface of genetic
sequencing machine to the
smartphone.
It is the precursor to cloud
storage, artificial intelligence,
electronic games, advanced
analytical tools, virtual reality and
3D printing.

Means to an end

Living tech

Technology in itself began with

the creation of tools and simple
devices crafted by early man to
solve a problem or make work
easier. However, the creation of
tools itself began with the
understanding of basic physics.
In essence, technology was a
solution for humans to accomplish
a task or solve a problem
efficiently. Technology provided
the opportunity for man to
accomplish tasks quickly and
repetitively using as little energy as
possible.
In addition, our understanding
of science itself has developed
further thanks to the
advancements of technology. For
instance, the earliest telescope, a
basic refracting telescope known as
the Dutch telescope patented in
1608, was used to observe things
from a distance.
Popularised when European
nations decided to explore the
world during the Age of Discovery,
this basic telescope evolved into
the Hubble Space Telescope, the
worlds most advanced and largest
space telescope.
It is interesting to note that
although the Hubble telescope is a
lot more sophisticated in terms of
computing gizmos and hardware

As we stand on the precipice

and look back, a large extent of
technological advancement has
shown exponential growth since
2010 and continues on today.
Technology has promised better
quality of living with
advancements in engineering,
automobile, healthcare and big
data.
The smartphone has been the
single biggest commercially
advanced mobile device in the past
10 years. Contrary to popular
belief, the first smartphone, called
the IBM Simon, was invented by
IBM in 1994.
Over the years, key players in
the technological and
communications industry
continued to compete with one
another until 2007, when Apple
Incorporated made a historic
announcement of its very own
smartphone model that became
the blueprint for every mobile
device we see today: the iPhone.
The development of the
smartphone was a game changer
and gave other supporting
industries, especially developers,
the opportunities to come up with
independent applications,
subsequently paving the way for
the tablet.

Mobile devices now impact the way we approach lifestyle and health.

The gadgets that we use today have completely changed the way we socialise.

The development of
the smartphone
was a game
changer and gave
other supporting
industries especially
developers the
opportunities to come
up with independent
applications,
subsequently paving
the way for the tablet.
A study conducted by IDC
Research Incorporated in the
United States found that more than
1.4 billion smartphones were sold
last year alone.
This revolution in mobile
technology has created a new
paradigm in the human-technology
relationship. Technology, which
started off as a solution to a
problem, is now forcing us to adapt
and change our ways of living
within its parameters one prime
example is social media.

So social
Social media is the new social
platform. The advancement of
mobile devices was a catalyst in
the exponential growth of social
media in the past few years.
A study conducted by
searchenginejournal.com found
that the total number of global
social media users grew from 970
million to 1.96 billion between
2010 and last year, concurrent with
the period of rapid mobile device
development.
Social media has come a long
way since its days on the desktops.
Packaged into neat mobile
applications, social media now
allows users to post and share
updates, pictures and videos in real
time. It has taken over the e-mail
and brought people closer despite
distance and circumstances.
First gaining popularity with
Facebook and Twitter, social media
on mobile platforms have further
diversified into various other
formats, including blogging and
content sharing.

Some of the many social media

platforms that followed the
footsteps of Facebook and Twitter
include YouTube, Pinterest and
Tumblr.
On the other hand, social media
applications that are unique to
mobile devices, such as Instagram
and Snapchat, emerged not long
after and completely surpassed
their predecessors in terms of use
and number of active accounts.
According to wearesocial.com,
there are 2.31 billion social media
users and 1.97 billion mobile social
media users globally as of January
this year.
Social media has allowed us to
delve into other peoples life, story
and experiences. It has allowed
transparent and efficient
dissemination of news and
information as well as offered a
medium to express opinions, ideas
or to show support.
In hindsight, this particular
feature that social media offers has
contributed to the myriad of issues
that we face today. The freedom to
express ourselves should come
hand-in-hand with online etiquette
and knowing how to avoid cyber
conflicts.
Another issue that many people
of all ages face is cyber-bullying
and hate speech. In a recent
incident, Hollywood actress Leslie
Jones of the recent Ghostbusters
reboot was a victim of cyberbullying and hate speech on her
Twitter account, which resulted in
her voluntary account termination.
Social media has also changed
the way we perceive relationships.
With apps such as Tinder, the
norms of dating have evolved.
There is no need to start awkward
conversations at a social setting
when a potential perfect match is
just a right swipe away.
Social media has brought us the
advantage of meeting people at a
much larger scale and is a great
way for people to get out and
socialise. Yet, on a personal level,
social media poses a host of other
challenges that we need to face.
Fake profiles, wrong information
and unrealistic expectations are
some of the many issues with
social media. This can also lead to
the invasion of privacy and a host
of scam incidences.
Moreover, advances in
communication technology have
left us communicating less in real
life and a lot more virtually.

Technology has also played a

role in making our work a lot
more efficient. From a typewriter
to a tablet, work now is simplified
and mobile. People can now break
free from the walls of their office
for different work environments
and carry out collaborative work
no matter where they are on the
planet.
However, this poses another
problem: work now seems to
follow us everywhere. Would we
still have to answer e-mails when
we are on vacation or be required
to work on that report while we
are catching the train home?
Technology has undoubtedly
increased work expectations and
key performance indicators would
be based on how fast and efficient
the job is done as there is no room
for excuses.
Essentially, even with advanced
technology, employers and
employees must come up with a
work plan that would function
within the boundaries of work
time. This way, employees are
able to maximise their time at
work with the technology at hand
and produce excellent results.

Come together
Mobile devices and gadgets are
tiny pieces of technology that
make up a big part of our lives.
For the longest time, we used
many devices for different needs.
However, mobile device
developers have found ingenious
ways of integrating different
technologies into a single device in
an arms race to outdo each other.
Before the integration of short
messaging service (SMS), people
used to carry a pager around to
receive messages. People also used
to bring along digital cameras to
capture memories.
We now communicate via
messaging applications through
wireless Internet technology and
integrated digital camera
hardware in our smartphones.
The integration of multiple
applications in a single device
offers users the ability to complete
as many tasks as possible with
little or no hassle. Think of an
integrated mobile device as a
digital Swiss knife one device
that can perform many functions
at the same time.

> TURN TO PAGE 10

Tech World 7

SUNDAY STAR, 18 SEPTEMBER 2016

WE are in an age of countless

choices as smartphone producers
continuously improve the
technology with better specs and
features.
However, the deciding factor
for most customers is how their
smartphone is going to suit their
lifestyle and keep them on top of
their game.
The Samsung Galaxy J3,
Asus Zenfone 3 and Samsung
Galaxy S7 edge are some of the
many smartphone models out
there technology has that been
fine-tuned from their preceding
models.
As mobile data has become a
significant aspect of our lives,
mobile data saving is crucial and
the Samsung Galaxy J3 may offer
a solution to this. The device
comes with an Ultra Data Saving
Mode feature to ensure that data
is not overused for unwanted
programmes, thus minimising
cost.
On top of that, the J3 is offered
with an affordable plan Digi
Postpaid 48, which includes 5GB
Internet, 100 minutes of calls,
100 SMS and other perks.
For those who live their lives in
the fast lane, the Samsung Galaxy
S7 edge will definitely be able to
meet their daily needs.
In addition to the superior
performance and features of the
Samsung Galaxy S7 edge, Samsung
has introduced Knox, which
provides round-the-clock security
against hackers and malware with
regular enforcement updates.
With a significant number of
devices to choose from and plans
that offer perks such as Internet
Rollover, digital services such as
MyDigi app, Capture, Digi Music
Freedom and many more, Digi is
paving the way for consumers to
be empowered in all that they do.

Samsung Galaxy J3
Part of Samsungs affordable
phone series, the Samsung Galaxy
J3 is in a class of its own. With
a slim 4.56mm silhouette and
stunning all-black bezel, the J3
has the same luxurious feel of
Samsungs flagship smartphone
model, the S7.

Devices, empowered
Not only is the J3 a slim device,
it is also designed to
provide comfortable
yet sturdy
handling.
The J3 is
making waves
for having the
most immersive
wide-screen
experience among
its competitors of
the same range.
The J3 comes
equipped with a
five-inch Super
AMOLED screen
that makes up 68.2%
screen-to-body ratio.
The multi-touch screen
comes with a resolution
of 720 x 1,280 pixels and
equipped with Asahi
Dragontail Glass.
Cameras are a staple in
smartphones today and the
J3 sports an eight-megapixel
rear and five-megapixel front
camera.
In terms of performance,
the J3 is equipped with a Quad
processor and 1.5GB RAM so
you can enjoy superior video
streaming, web browsing and
game play at exceptional speeds.
The device runs on an Android
5.1.1 Lollipop operating system.
Managing background
applications and shutting down
unwanted functions will go a long
way in ensuring phone battery life
and the lifespan of the internal
hardware.
The interactive Smart Manager
app allows you to monitor and
manage your devices functions
with just a few simple touches.
You can check your battery level,
storage, RAM usage and security
status with the application.
When you sign up for Digi
Postpaid 48, you can enjoy the
device at RM299 with a total
of 5GB Internet and extra 2GB
mobile data.

Asus Zenfone 3

Samsung Galaxy J3.

As a key competitor
in the affordable
smartphone range,
Asus is poised to turn
heads with its latest
flagship mobile device
the Asus Zenfone 3.
Encased in a
contoured Corning
Gorilla Glass on both
the front and rear end
of the phone and
tampered to a thin
7.69mm edge, the
Zenfone 3 exudes a
sense of luxury, style
and sleekness with a
0.18mm diamond-cut
bevel.
Enjoy a
mesmerising visual
experience with the
Zenfone 3s 5.2-inch
or 5.5-inch display
with 1,920 x 1,080
full high-definition
resolution and
intense 600 nits for
easy viewing under
bright or dim
conditions.
In addition,
users can enjoy a
wider viewing
ability with an
ultra-slim 2.1mm
bezel and up to a
remarkable 77.3%
screen-to-body

Asus Zenfone 3.
ratio promising more display
minus the bulk.
Besides its impressive design,
the Zenfone 3 is a beast when
it comes to performance. The
device is equipped with a 64-bit,
2.0GHz octa-core Snapdragon 625
processor, 4GB memory and
desktop-grade Adreno 506 for
superior graphic performance.
Paired with a 3,000mAh
lithium-ion battery, the Zenfone 3
is a force to be reckoned with.
The device runs on an Android
6.0 Marshmallow operating
system.
The Zenfone 3 is equipped
with Asus next-generation

PixelMaster 3.0, which features

a 16-megapixel
rear camera,
large f/2.0aperture lens
and subjecttracking
TriTech
autofocus for
any distance
and lighting
clarity in just
0.03 seconds.
This allows
the camera to
produce
blur-free shots
and video with
colour-correction
sensor for vivid
images.
The TriTech
autofocus
technology
combines three
focusing
technologies
laser, phase
detection and
continuous
autofocus
resulting in a clear
camera focus in
just 0.03 seconds,
which is ten times
faster than a blink
of an eye.
As for security, the
Zenfone 3 comes with a five-finger
rear fingerprint pad that unlocks
the device in a fraction of a second.
As part of a special promotion,
you can get an Asus Zenfone 3
with a payment plan of RM52 per
month when you sign up for Digi
Postpaid 148. The postpaid plan
comes with 14GB Internet, 500
minutes of calls, 500 SMS and 6GB
Internet Rollover.

Samsung Galaxy S7 edge

The hallmark of premium
smartphones around the world,
Samsung has quenched the
thirst of many mobile device
enthusiasts in February with

the latest addition to the S series,

the Samsung S7 edge.
Aiming to further refine
its technology, Samsung intends
to show that the S7 edge is
a significant upgrade from the
S6 edge.
Very much like its predecessor,
the notable feature of the S7 edge
is the bevelled screen that allows
for a wider screen and seamless
touch user interface and makes
up 76.1% screen-to-body ratio.
It also is equipped with rear
and front Corning Gorilla Glass
for optimum safety and
durability.
In true Samsung fashion,
the 5.5-inch quad high-definition
(QHD) screen comes with the
Super AMOLED technology and
QHD (1,440 x 2,560) resolution
that provides a delightful visual
experience.
The S7 edge stepped up
its game with the device
hardware. The device comes
with an eight-core Exynos 8890
processor with four 2.6GHz
Mongoose core and four
Cortex-A53 core running at
1.59GHz as well as 4GB RAM
for superior performance and
smoother user interface. The S7
edge runs on an Android 6.0
Marshmallow operating system.
The S7 edge comes with a
12-megapixel, f/1.7, 26mm rear
camera with phase detection
autofocus, optical image
stabilisation, LED flash and
five-megapixel front camera.
What truly stands out with
the S7 edge is the water- and
dust-resistant features. The
devices water-resistant capability
was put to the test and the device
managed to retain function for
up to 30 minutes or submerged
to a depth of 1.5m.
Samsung has worked its way
into designing the water-sealing
feature even though components
such as the micro USB ports and
earphone jacks are left open.
This reduces the high incidence
of smartphone malfunction due
to accidents involving
water.
In light of concerns
regarding privacy
and data security, the
S7 edge comes with
the Samsung Knox
Enabled application,
which is dedicated
to providing
round-the-clock
security solutions
against hackers and
malware. The app
also allows users to
safely isolate and
encrypt sensitive data.
Own your very own
Samsung S7 edge with
an exclusive
promotion by Digi
from RM109 per
month with 14GB
Internet, 500 call
minutes and 500 SMS
when you sign up for
Digi Postpaid 148.

Samsung
Galaxy S7
edge.

8 Tech World
FROM education to business, it is
no secret that humanity has grown
exceptionally dependent on
technology. Not only has
technology improved the way they
lead their lives, it has greatly
revolutionised the way they
interact with one another, be it for
work or leisure.
It is for this reason that
manufacturers within the
technology industry constantly
introduce new products to the
market, complete with the latest
features and capabilities.
Despite the latest updates and
gadgetry available, consumer
groups are always quick to voice
their disappointment or
disapproval on what they perceive
are design flaws or weaknesses.
One such example is the reaction
to Apples announcement of the
new iPhone 7 that does not have a
standard headphone jack.
Within hours of the
announcement, technology
websites, consumer forums and
social media platforms were abuzz
as many felt this decision would
only be inconvenient to potential
buyers.
Apart from noticeable external
features that are either added or
removed from new gadgets,
consumers and technology
reviewers often overlook one
important aspect of a new gadget
its water resistance.

SUNDAY STAR, 18 SEPTEMBER 2016

The right
watertight tech

phone with you if you intend to

have an active day of water
sports, it is worthwhile to know if
your mobile phone will at the
very least withstand a few
splashes should you find yourself
caught in the rain.
According to some technology
experts, there is no such thing as a
waterproof device as it would
imply that water will not be able
to enter a product under any
circumstances.
Therefore, for most instances
when products are labelled
waterproof, it can withstand being
entirely submerged in water,
albeit not permanently.
Just because your mobile phone
claims to be waterproof does not
mean you should take it to the
beach to try and snap an
adventurous underwater picture
for your Instagram account. At
some point, the durability of the
waterproof shield will no longer
be useful.
The rubber seals protecting
the internal sections of your
Know the difference
mobile phone or watch are
When you decide to purchase a
generally made as a precautionary
new watch or mobile phone, have
step should you encounter a
you ever taken the time to consider water-related accident such as
the products alleged water
dropping it in a puddle of water.
resistance level? Did you know
Products that are
there is a difference between
water-resistant are only partially
products that are labelled
waterproof, while those that claim
water-resistant, waterproof or
to be splash-proof will withstand
splash-proof?
splashes of water and are not
Although it may be common
totally safe from water
sense not to have your mobile
permeation.

Watch the limitations

If you were to look at your
watch and find engravings such
as WR 30m or water-resistant
to 3 atmospheres or 3 bar, it
does not mean that you should go
diving with the watch and bring it
30 metres below sea level.

Although ISO (International

Organization for Standardization)
developed a standard in providing
test methods and labelling
features for watches sold as
water-resistant, it is always safer
to stick to some general rules.

Water resistance rating

Suitability

Water-resistant 30m,
3-Atmosphere, 3-Bar

Suitable for day-to-day use.

Splash- and rain-resistant. Not
suitable for showering, bathing or
swimming.

Water-resistant 50m,
5-Atmosphere, 5-Bar

Suitable for brief periods of direct

contact with water.

Water-resistant 100m,
10-Atmosphere, 10-Bar

Suitable for general water sports.

Water-resistant 200m,
20-Atmosphere, 20-Bar

Suitable for professional marine

activity, water sports and skin
diving.

Divers 100m

Suitable for scuba diving but

not saturation diving (diving at
depths that require a pressurised
environment).

Divers 200m

Suitable for scuba diving but not

saturation diving. A common rating
for most divers watches.

Divers 300+m

Suitable for saturation diving.

Water-resistant watches that are

suitable for water activity should
ideally be rated 200m and above.

Quick facts - Waterproof mobile phones

2005 LG Telecom and Casio Computer
collaborated to produce the CanU 502S. It was
among the first phones to be recognised as
water resistant.
The clamshell phone features a 1.3-megapixel
camera, 256MB of RAM, 2.2-inch LCD (liquid
crystal display) display and electronic compass.
It also has rubber seals and gaskets to protect
the phone against water.
2006 Nokia entered the water-resistant
mobile phone industry with the Nokia 5500
Sport. Running on Symbian OS v9.1, this may be
the very first waterproof smartphone. It has
a 2-megapixel primary camera, 1.7-inch screen
as well as comes with 8MB memory and

64MB RAM.
2008 American company Sonim released the
XP3 Enduro. In addition to making the phone
water-resistant, Sonim also designed the phone
to be shockproof and dust tight. It claims to
have a drop-to-concrete resistance of up to
two metres.
2009 Samsungs first attempt in producing
waterproof mobile phones was the Marine
B2100. It is rated to withstand blowing rain,
dust, shock, humidity, solar radiation and
extreme temperatures.
2009 Motorola released the first waterproof
Android phone The Motorola Defy. It includes
a 3.7-inch touchscreen and 5-megapixel camera.

Quick facts - Waterproof watches

1851 The earliest evidence of a waterproof
watch was reported in the Official Descriptive
and Illustrated Catalogue of the Great Exhibition.
At the Great Exhibition in London, W. Pettit & Co
displayed a watch that was suspended in a glass
globe filled with water.
Late 1800s People in the Western world
began to travel and explore foreign lands.
These people required a time-keeping device
that would continue to work when put through
extreme, humid and damp climates.

The watches were called explorers watches.

A cap enclosing the crown was screwed
onto a threaded end of the pendant to seal
the gap where the stem enters the case.
1880s Ezra C. Fitch patented a design
of waterproof watches with screw-down
crowns. After he became president of the
American Watch Company of Waltham
in 1883, these watches became the first
commercially available waterproof
watches.

Tech World 9

SUNDAY STAR, 18 SEPTEMBER 2016

Joy for
everyone
CHOICES with JOI, En-JOIment with JOI
is one of the core values of JOI, a homegrown
technology brand that will be turning two
soon.
JOI looks to challenge the technology
market in Malaysia by collaborating with
big names such as Intel and Microsoft to
produce a new and visionary computer
tablet, JOI 8.
However, the range of products does not
end there. JOI also produces smartphones,
tablets, portable computers and two-in-one
devices.
The brand first began when the directors
and their teams at SNS Network (M) Sdn Bhd
set out on this journey with a vision of
enabling locals with simple and easy-to-use
devices.
We wish to provide each and every
valued customer with a variety of choices
and unbeatable value for their money
through our brand, JOI. We promise to
deliver an excellent product of high quality
without compromising on any features that
consumers would expect from a modern
tablet, says Ko Yun Hung, managing
director of SNS Network.
SNS Network first launched JOI in the
Malaysian market in September 2014.
Since then, it has been striving to provide
Malaysians with an alternative choice for
mobile and computing devices.
The release of the JOI 8 tablet witnessed
tremendous success and this spurred the
JOI team to produce the JOI 10 Flip, a
two-in-one form factor device, which also
experienced wonderful reception from the
tech-consumer market.

The JOI two-in-one functions as a tablet

or laptop.
Since the introduction of smartphones and
tablets, the 21st century lifestyle has evolved
into one where technology is everywhere,
like the air we breathe.
Even the most mundane of chores or
trivial tasks have been simplified through
tablets and smartphones.
The world is changing. We should look
at the changes and change accordingly. If
the whole world demands smartphones
and tablets, then we will strive to provide
each and every one of them with a device
of their own that is affordable and easy to
use, adds Ko.
JOI products are now available nationwide
at major Aeon outlets and distributors such
as Notebook Plaza Sdn Bhd, Mobile Plaza
Sdn Bhd, Achieva Technology Sdn Bhd,
Asia Mobile Supplies Sdn Bhd and Servex
(M) Sdn Bhd. For online users, you can
purchase a JOI product either via Lazada,
11street or SNS Networks own e-commerce
website, GLOO at gloo.com.my.
There are 24 service points nationwide
that offers comprehensive, value-added
services that support the lifecycle of JOI
devices.

n For more information, visit joi.com.my

or call 1700 817 616.

Keeping up with children

CHILDREN these days are more inquisitive
than ever. With a keen eye for curiosity and
a bubbly spirit, children want to explore the
world around them.
While parents understand that curiosity is
a valuable asset in childrens growth, there is
concern for their safety when they are out
and about.
Older children may find it easier to
communicate with their parents using
devices such as smartphones. However, this
poses an issue for younger children who
may not be able to handle smartphones and
have a tendency of losing them.
The alternative to this would be to equip
young children with a device that is discrete,
easy-to-use and multifunctional for both
parents and children.
Alcatel has come up with the MOVE
TIME Track & Talk Watch so
that parents can keep a close
eye on their children at all
times.
Essentially, the
smartwatch acts as a
geo-locating device that is
paired to a parents phone.
Parents can view their
childrens location on a map
through the MOVE TIME
Track & Talk Watch
mobile application
that is compatible
with devices that
run on either iOS 7
or Android 4.0
operating systems.
The application
allows parents to
set certain
locations as safe
zones such as kids
homes, school
compounds, tuition
classes and so on. The
MOVE TIME Track & Talk
Watch alerts parents when their

child leaves or enters a safe zone.

Parents will receive notifications when
they leave pre-set safe zones and geo-locate
them right away from their smartphones.
The MOVE TIME Track & Talk Watch is an
innovative way of keeping in touch with
children when they are on the go.
The MOVE TIME Track & Talk Watch also
features calling and voice messaging
capabilities that are easy to access and use.
The watch also comes with a one-touch
button that can call up to 10 pre-set phone
numbers in case of an emergency.
With a waterproof and dustproof (IP65)
capability paired with a flexible and durable
design, the MOVE TIME Track & Talk Watch
is reliable to meet the active lifestyle a child.
The watch can be equipped with a Nano
SIM to activate the 2G mobile Internet
network for tracking, messaging and
calling.
What is most impressive about
this watch is the long battery
life of four days when on
stand-by mode. This is
particularly useful when
children are travelling
or on educational trips.
The MOVE TIME
Track & Talk watch
comes in two
attractive colours:
orange and blue.

n For more

information, call
Era International
Network Sdn Bhd
at 03-8074 7776

The MOVE TIME

Track & Talk Watch
allows parents to be
updated on their child's
whereabouts and to contact
them if necessary.

10 Tech World

SUNDAY STAR, 18 SEPTEMBER 2016

Generation gadget
> FROM PAGE 6
Technology integration paved the way for
the invention of wireless hotspots, Bluetooth
connections and Wi-Fi direct connections to
link one device to another.
Developers are constantly looking to
further miniaturise devices so that they not
only help users complete tasks but make
them look good as well. Enter the
smartwatch.
An idea built on the principles of fitness
tracking bands, smartwatches are now
reliving everyones James Bond dream.
Linked to the smartphone, smartwatches
are wearable devices that allow users to
access certain applications, respond to them
and retrieve information when needed with
either touch or voice activation.
The Google Glass a wearable device that
mimics a pair of spectacles is changing the
conventions of mobile device technology.
Although the development of this
technology is still at its infancy, the Google
Glass makes use of augmented reality and
natural language commands to provide a
ubiquitous computer experience.
This enables users to operate mobile
applications hands free, eliminating the need
for bulky hardware.
More applications are being integrated
into wearables that are in the pipeline as
developers race one another to the top in an
already competitive mobile device market.
Technology has integrated work into our
lifestyle, creating a flexible work
environment through a common device or
gadget.
Applications such as Slack and Glip are
applications designed to help employees
achieve given tasks with opportunities to
collaborate with colleagues and keep
superiors updated despite not being present
in person.
Technology is also moving into our homes
with smart device systems that can manage

As technology continues to mould our life, it is crucial

to strike a balance between optimising its advantages
and minimising its threats.
thermostats, entertainment consoles, power
consumption, smoke detectors and security
cameras.
These platforms work under systems that
are linked to the homeowners smart device
and allow them to control systems wirelessly.
Such smart systems also alert or notify users
in case of an emergency or a security breach.
Moving forward, developers are looking to
create the ultimate smart home where all
appliances and devices are controlled under
one platform and device.
Technological integration has resulted in
more efficient ways of completing multiple
tasks through the use of smartphones.
With different types of smartphone

application these days, you can check you

bank balance, make a phone call to a friend
and buy movie tickets simultaneously.
Despite the advantages of such integration,
concerns regarding the security of personal
information cannot be ignored.
The integration of ones confidential
information within one device can be
compromised if a smart device is stolen or
hacked, allowing perpetrators to access
multiple bits of information at once.
Hence, users have to be selective when
deciding what information they would like
to integrate with their smart devices and also
look into ways of safeguarding information,
such as data encryption.
It is also advisable to seek advice and take
note of notifications from service providers
on how they can help to keep your
confidential information safe in your mobile
devices.

Tech rugrats
Millennials and Generation Z individuals
grew up with technology around them and
actively engage with gadgets at their
disposal.
Often dubbed screenagers, the current
generation of teenagers and young adults
are known to be hooked to their mobile
devices and often miss opportunities to
actively communicate with peers and family
offline.
The recent Pokmon Go craze is a
revolution in mobile gaming but also shows
how tech can bring people together.
Conventional mobile games and social media
are static platforms but Pokmon Go
encourages players to go out in search of
Pokmons and battle at Pok-gyms that can
be found in neighbourhoods, parks and
recreational areas.
The game has allowed enthusiasts to
socialise with one another outside their
homes and encouraged gamers to be more
active by walking certain distances to reap
game rewards and incentives.
On the other hand, many toddlers are

growing up with advanced technology while

they are still sitting in their strollers.
Technology has offered young children a
new avenue to learn and play virtually
through mobile devices that seem a lot more
interesting with bright colours, fancy
animations and interactive modules.
A study conducted by Boston University
School of Medicine concluded that mobile
devices can harm the social-emotional
development of children younger than 30
months old, especially if it is used for
non-educational purposes, and result in
reduced direct human-to-human interaction
that is necessary for young children.
This trend has definitely put traditional
parenting to the test and raises the question
of whether or not children are glued to the
screens for excessive periods of time instead
of playing and socialising outdoors.
Ideally, children should be actively
engaged in play while still being
technologically savvy as there will be more
technological applications for them in the
future in terms of education, health and
lifestyle.
Despite technology being a big part of our
world, we need to learn to strike a balance
between our lifestyle needs that are bound
by technology and taking some time off by
going offline.
Technology offers amazing solutions with
just a swipe of a finger, but with our growing
understanding of social and technological
etiquette, we are also becoming more aware
of the risks of being hooked to technology,
especially our mobile devices.
We need to learn how to reconnect with
people outside of technology and focus on
building relationships and self-development
offline in addition to being well versed with
the latest technology.
There is no doubt that technology will
continue to mould our lives for years to
come. Whether the advancement of
technology is driven by commercialisation or
through the pursuit of innovation, we will
learn to adapt to its changes and continue to
find solutions to the challenges it will bring.

Pokmon Go got gamers off their computer consoles and onto the streets, paving the
way for the development of more interactive, augmented reality games.

Tech World 11

SUNDAY STAR, 18 SEPTEMBER 2016

Integration of
mobile and cloud
WORKPLACE technology is constantly and
rapidly changing. More businesses are
recognising the increased flexibility that
mobile and cloud technologies bring to
their workers, enabling them to work from
any place, at anytime.
By 2020, more than three quarters of
small- to mid-sized businesses would have
fully adopted cloud computing twice as
many as there were last year.
Not only do widely available cloud
services such as e-mail, file storage and
productivity tools offer smarter ways to
collaborate and communicate, they do not
require heavy investment in terms of
information technology (IT) resources,
equipment and cost.
Meanwhile, there is also the surge in
mobile usage there are more mobile
devices than people in the world now, with
the figure set to break 10 billion units by
next year. These trends create more mobile
workers and the need of connecting them
through cloud-based tools.
Even with these new tools, there is still a
need for easier information flow
integration between mobile/cloud-based
tools to your existing paper-based business
workflow as well as turning digital
documents into printed ones and vice
versa.
Your users also expect the print
infrastructure to integrate seamlessly with
mobile devices and cloud apps. Being used
to one-click printing/scanning from their
PCs, they expect being able to do the same
from their mobile devices and the cloud.
Users want to:
l Print directly from their smartphone or
cloud storage apps without using their PC
l Scan a paper document at a
multifunction printer (MFP) and deliver it
to their phone or cloud storages in one click
l Print at remote/branch offices just like
in their office
l Allow guests and clients to use your
printers without accessing your network
When choosing a mobile and cloud
document printing/scanning solution, here
are some important considerations:
l Openness The solution you choose
must support a variety of mobile devices
and cloud services
l User-friendliness It should ensure
users do not have to resort to a workaround to print files from cloud apps (for
example, having to download a file from
cloud storage to their desktop before
printing)
l Confidentiality The solution
should ensure users do not leave behind
documents in the printer because they
forgot to collect them
l Security and control Unauthorised
users will not be able to print or scan
The right cloud and mobile print solution
should:
1. Make it as easy as possible
Your users need to be able to print or
scan from whatever device they have. They
should be able to make use of their MFP
user interface to print and scan from
mobile and cloud-based tools.
 ive your users all the options
2. G
they need
Make sure your users can print jobs from
mobile devices and cloud apps. A crossplatform solution that supports iOS
(AirPrint), Android (Mopria), Google Cloud
Print and more is a must.
3. Support print-on-demand
The print-on-demand or pull printing
feature makes sure your MFPs only release
print jobs after a user has logged in with a
pin code or card swipe.
Print-on-demand gives you the control
you need, along with the ability to perform
chargeback on departments or teams. Your
users get the freedom to print with their
devices and you get better information
security.

The Fuji Xerox Seito paired with the ApeosPort-V, Smart Work Enabler
allows you to customise your work flow through mobile devices and
initiate fuction through facial recognition technology.
4. Integrate paper into digital
workflow
MFPs are a whole lot smarter than they
used to be. For repetitive processes such
as handling invoices, you can customise a
digital workflow and then use an app on
your MFP to automate it.
For example, you can create an invoice
button that automatically routes a new
invoice to the right folder on your network
and make it searchable by invoice number
or total amount.
5. Extract insight from data
Use your MFPs audit logs to gather
valuable information about which devices
are accessing it, when they are accessing it,
and what documents they are printing.
This dataset will help you improve
security and enable compliance. It also
gives you the ability to carry out
chargeback on different departments.

Greater productivity
It is natural for your users to expect the
print infrastructure they have relied on for
so long to integrate seamlessly with mobile
devices and cloud apps so they can tweak
and collaborate on the fly, print from
wherever they are and make life easier for
guests and clients.
Ideally, these solutions will minimise the
need to make help desk calls. Getting
started is easy and there are lots of
solutions that allow you to print from
anywhere (including @PrintByXerox,
AirPrint and Mopria) that you can try out
for free.
When you are ready to scale up or have
more robust requirements, there are
solutions to support more complex needs.
The flow of information as well as the
security and simplicity of that information
flow are core to the success of any business.
By integrating your cloud and mobile
workflows with your print infrastructure,
you give your employees smarter, simpler
ways to work.
Making mobile and cloud printing
possible is important but does not have to
be difficult. Fuji Xerox mobile and cloud
solutions can make businesses work better.

n For more information, visit

www.fujixerox.com.my.

12 Tech World

SUNDAY STAR, 18 SEPTEMBER 2016

Unique gizmos
THE element of wonder is a major
driver of our fascination with
technology. More and more
original creations emerging in the
market can be described as
impressive, futuristic and

Ripple Maker Coffee art has

certainly grown from the caf
trend it was years ago. Today, we
no longer require the fine skills of
a barista to pattern layers of froth
thanks to machines such as the
Ripple Maker, it is becoming
easier to create custom designs on
your beverage using any image or
text.
The machine uses a patented
printing technology to recreate

sometimes strangely intriguing.

Tech World takes a look at some
of the inventions that provide a
glimpse into the bizarre potential
of new technology in the facets of
everyday life.

Kube This two-in-one

cube-shaped device is set to
revolutionise parties, serving as
both a portable cooler and
high-definition speaker.
The device provides
entertainment wherever you go
and eases spontaneous plans the
cordless Kube is tough enough for
the outdoors, delivering 360 clear
sound anywhere for up to 20
hours.
Kubes sleek design is
complemented by a spacious
storage compartment where you
can chill your beverages or store
your belongings, making it a
must-have for those who enjoy a
good time with friends over drinks
and music.

the art of choice. All baristas have

to do is place the cup of coffee on
the machine and select an image
from the extensive content library,
or approve a customers special
design.
Ripple Maker automatically
recognises and prints on cups up
to 4.25 inches wide, creating
impressive copies of almost any
image to add excitement to your
caf experience.

SensorWake The struggle

of waking up to an alarm
clock in the morning is one
that is universally relevant.
Numerous variations of the
alarm clock have emerged as
a result, and of these, the
SensorWake is easily one of
the zaniest.
Known as the olfactory
alarm clock, SensorWake
emits pleasant scents in the
morning to gradually draw
you out from your slumber.
Perfume molecules are
transported from a recyclable
capsule via dry-air diffusion to
deliver the aroma of seaside,
crossaint, toast, espresso,
chocolate, peppermint or grass.
According to its French
manufacturers, the SensorWake operates
on the principle that scents have the ability to
evoke pleasant memories and emotions, thus
ensuring you wake up in a good mood.

Tao Chair Dubbed the

invisible gym for your living
room by digital media website
Mashable, this wide chair
contains embedded sensors in
the armrests to track force
exerted in every direction and
display corresponding calories
burnt through isometric
exercise.
During isometric exercise,
various muscle groups are

Phonotonic The creators of

Phonotonic worked on their vision of
transforming motion into music in a
natural yet exciting manner to create
a honeycomb-shaped wearable
device that fits in your hand.
The device works with an app that
allows you to select the type of music
you want to create. A single device
creates music for the lead while a
second one can be added for rhythm.
Whether at the gym, at home or a
party, Phonotonic lets you create
music with simple, fluid movements
no prior musical composition
knowledge required.
There are various videos on its
YouTube channel that show how you
can start using your little music
maker and live out the Phonotonic
motto: You are music.

SCiO Imagine a device that

could tell you the contents or
chemical composition of anything
with just a simple touch that is
essentially what this nifty gadget is.
From food and plants to oils and
fuels, SCiO by Consumer Physics is
marketed as an instant,
non-intrusive molecular sensor
that analyses the make-up of
objects by running it against an
extensive user-supported database.
This means that with every scan,
you are helping SCiO learn more
about the world by introducing or
corroborating information.
Consumer Physics aims to build
the worlds foremost database of
matter using this model.
Among its lauded functions are
breaking down the nutritional
content of food, checking the wellbeing of plants in your garden, and

worked as one muscle exerts

pressure, another resists in
response. Taos patented
Variobics principle uses
isometrics and resistance
training to build strength and
burn calories while you relax
in the comfort of your home.
Users can also access various
isometric exercise tutorials to
be performed on the chair via
the Tao mobile app.

identifying the components of your

medicinal capsules or nutritional
supplements.
However, it is clear that the
potential of SCiO extends beyond
this realm as it can modify the way
information is accessed worldwide.