OPPO's Cutting-edge Mobile Graphics Unveiled at SIGGRAPH 2023

OPPO recently showcased how it continues to help empower developers in mobile graphics, computer vision, ray tracing, graphics rendering, and artificial intelligence at SIGGRAPH 2023, the premier conference for computer graphics and interactive technologies worldwide.

 

The global smartphone brand gave visitors a chance to get their hands on the demos of the latest technologies through its leading devices such as OPPO Find X6 Pro, OnePlus 11, and OPPO Pad 2. 

Refined PhysRay Engine Brings More to Mobile Ray Tracing 

OPPO has continuously worked with partners across the industry to drive forward the evolution of mobile ray tracing. 

In 2021 it took the initiative to create one of the industry’s first open ray tracing solutions for mobile devices, PhysRay Engine. Last year, OPPO made PhysRay Engine 1.0 available for modification and redistribution to its global developers, while also unveiling its next stage in PhysRay Engine 2.0, which integrates advanced ray tracing capabilities, including OPPO-exclusive ray tracing effects, a mixed rendering pipeline, and offline full path tracing.

 

For more vivid, lifelike mobile games, camera filters, and even virtual reality scenarios, OPPO has pushed the limits of performance by optimizing the PhysRay Engine at every step of the way on both the hardware and software levels. With the joint efforts of Qualcomm Technologies, Inc., the latest Snapdragon® 8 Gen 2 mobile platform supports powerful hardware-based mobile ray tracing. Moreover, with the introduction of optimization algorithms such as ReSTIR DI, the real-time rendering effect of ray tracing has been improved even further. 

During SIGGRAPH 2023, visitors enjoyed playing CampGuard 3.0, a shooter mobile game based on the optimized PhysRay Engine. Compared with its predecessor, game scenes on the updated version are even more lucid and realistic. The reflections of characters, skies, and clouds in mirrors and other surfaces can interact with sunlight, yielding graphics that are all the more striking.

OPPO also demonstrated the Ray Tracing Denoiser. In 3D ray tracing applications such as mobile games, which has a noise reduction algorithm that can recreate soft and detailed shadow effects even with less light. 

With the help of real-time, hardware-accelerated ray tracing powered by Snapdragon® 8 Gen 2, the propagation, reflection, and refraction optical effects of Matrix and Skyline wallpaper are more vivid. At the same time, users can also experience the stunning visual effects of the wallpapers powered by the physics engine, a joint effort by OPPO and Taichi Lang. The silk-like wallpaper flows smoothly while fireworks on the display bloom with natural, real-life brilliance. 

OPPO Mobile Deep Learning Super Sampling - A Perfect Combination of High-Res Image and Low Power Consumption 

Mobile Deep Learning Super Sampling (DLSS) was also demonstrated, a technology which was once limited to PC games because it required a lot of computing power and high-end hardware, But OPPO found a way forward by using real-time rendering through a self-developed, lightweight, ultra-high-resolution AI model and rendering pipeline with its inference engine, ShaderNN.

The AI model samples and renders multiple lower-resolution images with fewer pixels and utilizes motion data and feedback from previous frames to create clearer, higher-resolution images, providing mobile users with a high-quality gaming experience without needing to worry about power consumption.

OPPO has also delivered more applications, including Stable Diffusion on Mobile and Style Transfer on Mobile, which are all powered by ShaderNN.

For graphics rendering, OPPO exhibited its Global Rendering Launcher. By rendering 2D layers to simulate propagation, reflection, and refraction effects, elements like icons and numbers can create an interplay of light and shadow across the screen.

"OPPO has always been committed to promoting the development of mobile graphics and computer vision. Last year, we partnered with Qualcomm Technologies to truly bring about a hardware-based mobile ray tracing experience. Through the demos of our various technologies, we’d like to share our latest progress with the SIGGRAPH audience." Chen Li, Head of Computing and Graphics Research Institute at OPPO stated, "2023 marks the 50th anniversary of the SIGGRAPH conference, and with years of innovations, the development of mobile images has fundamentally transformed. Looking forward, the ever-changing mobile hardware and advanced technologies represented by AI will once again bring about a leap in graphics fidelity. OPPO will continue to invest in this territory, bringing more innovative graphics and computer vision processing capabilities to our users while joining hands with partners to build an open and friendly mobile ecosystem."

 

Optimal Nutrient-Rich Foods for Promoting Healthy Aging and Brain Health

 

What should you eat if you want to keep a healthy brain? We’ve all heard about different kinds of brain foods, but which ones actually provide nutrients that boost memory, attention, and mood?

 

Discover the key to a healthy brain during Healthy Aging Month this September. What we eat fuels not only our brain cells but also our mood. Dr. David Heber, Chairman of the Herbalife Nutrition Institute, suggests nutrient-packed foods that enhance memory, focus, and mood, contributing to a fulfilling life.

1.              Fish Oils

 

If there is one food you can relate to brain health it’s probably this one. The main reason is that fatty fishes –such as sardines, salmon, and trout – have high levels of omega-3. Farm-fed fish including tilapia and some salmon have both omega-3 and omega-6 and are less desirable.

Always ask for ocean-caught fish. About 60 percent of the brain is made of fat, and the long-chain omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) found in fish are a type of fat that is not made efficiently by your body so you have to obtain them from food. Omega-3 fatty acids also keep your heart healthy.

 

2.              Black and Green Tea

 

Black and green teas provide hydration for any time of day, which is essential for the brain while jump-starting thermogenic (metabolic) activity and boosting the feeling of energy. Caffeine is known for its natural thermogenic (metabolism-boosting) benefits and green tea for its antioxidant properties.

 

These teas also support the body’s antioxidant activity, which helps protect against free radical damage. Don’t drink your tea immediately: give it time so water can extract and concentrate the tea’s components so you get the maximum benefit.

 

3.              Lutein

 

Lutein is a yellow antioxidant phytonutrient found in spinach, kale, and avocados as well as dietary supplements for eye health. Lutein is concentrated in the back of the eye in an area called the macula which is hit with the most ultraviolet light due to the focusing of light by the eye's lens.

 

The eye is connected to the brain via the optic nerve and Lutein is transported to the brain where it is in higher concentration than in the blood (58% of carotene-like antioxidants in the brain but only 28% of this family of phytonutrients in the bloodstream). There are now studies both in young people and in the elderly demonstrating the positive effects of Lutein on brain function.

4.        Dark Chocolate

This delicious food is rich in flavonoids, but be sure to get chocolate at least 70% cocoa. The flavonoids which are strong antioxidants that may enhance memory and also help slow down age-related mental decline are found in cocoa but not in all chocolate. For example, white chocolate has no cocoa, and many candies are only 30% cocoa. The best news? Chocolate is a guilty pleasure because it also causes the brain to release dopamine, which improves mood.

 

5.              Eggs

 

Eggs and egg yolk are rich in protein and vitamins such as B, D, and E, which may help to improve memory. Choline is also found in eggs; it is a micronutrient that your body uses to create acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood and memory. Egg yellow also has lutein which can help with brain health.

 

6.               Virgin Olive Oil

 

Extra Virgin Olive Oil is rich in a polyphenol called hydroxytyrosol, which is removed in refined forms of olive oil. This powerful antioxidant may improve learning and memory, but it also has a compound that mimics a painkiller. The compound, called oleocanthal, acts in the same way as ibuprofen to stifle components of a pain pathway called the prostaglandin system.

 

Going Beyond Food and Diet

 

Ultimately, make sure to consume high-quality foods that contain lots of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Another essential part of keeping a healthy brain is neurobic exercises, which help boost attention, memory, cognition, and mood.

 

The brain is the one organ you cannot transplant or replace, so take good care of it. You only have one.

 

Wear your best self while reaching your fitness goals with your Redmi Watch 3 Active

Workout trends are ever-changing, especially with the rise of fitness influencers and quick workout videos on social media. In 2023, many people are still on that grind to reach their fitness goals and stay healthy both physically and mentally.

There are a number of workouts out there trending among fitness buffs that you can try at home or at the gym. No matter which ones you do and where you do it, the best way to make the most of them is by keeping track of your progress with a reliable device like the all-new Redmi Watch 3 Active.

The Redmi Watch 3 Active is the ultimate smartwatch companion that will help you elevate your fitness journey. It supports 100+ modes, including 10 professional workout modes, making it a versatile fitness companion. Its full-scale fitness tracking is able to monitor your heart rate, GPS location (for those tracking their outdoor workouts), sleep duration and quality, and SpO2 levels. 

Take your fitness to the next level by trying out 2023’s trending workouts while wearing the Redmi Watch 3 Active:

1. The 12-3-30 workout

Fitness TikTokers have been raving about the 12-3-30 workout since last year. This involves setting your treadmill to an incline of 12 with a speed of 3mph, which you will walk on for 30 minutes. It’s an effective cardio workout because of the steep incline, challenging your legs and making you exert more effort—but the relatively leisurely pace is said to be less intense on the joints compared to full-on running on pavement, making it the perfect activity for people of all ages.

2. Strength training

Experts say that doing even a little bit of strength training every week can prolong your life. Whether you choose to do it with your own body weight or take to dumbbells, kettlebells, and barbells, any manner of resistance will be enough to increase your strength. For those looking to enhance and chisel their physique, this is also the most effective way to achieve a better look.

3. Step aerobics

For those looking for more low-impact ways to move your body, one of the easiest exercise trends to get into is step aerobics. Originally a popular product of the ‘80s and ‘90s, step aerobics is still a big trend today, with many people getting into it and posting their workouts on social media. It’s very flexible, as it can be as light or as intense as you want and need—all you need is something to step on, like a small bench or short box.

4. CrossFit

Forever a trendy way to stay fit, CrossFit remains as strong as ever, with thousands of fitness enthusiasts swearing by its intense and adrenaline-pumping, constant-motion lifting and bodyweight workouts. If you’re advanced in your fitness journey, this is a good way to level up and challenge yourself—you might even achieve tip-top conditions if you seriously work at it. 

5. Pilates

Emphasizing less intense and slow strength, Pilates is a great form of exercise to build up your core, control, and endurance. Akin to yoga and a few kinds of calisthenics, it will get your heart rate up, but not in a way that leaves you constantly out of breath. If you want something different and something that will clear and ease your mind, give Pilates a try.

Once you pick one or more workout trends to try and get fit with, you can use the Redmi Watch 3 Active to steadily keep track of your progress, as well as share your results on social media for all to see. Make the most out of your next fitness journey and get your own today via Xiaomi’s Lazada, Shopee, and TikTok shops, and Authorized Xiaomi Stores for only P1,999.

For more information, visit Xiaomi's official Facebook page and Xiaomi’s official website.

 

David Fincher directs and Michael Fassbender stars in THE KILLER!

David Fincher directs and Michael Fassbender stars in

THE KILLER, dropping on Netflix November 10.

After a fateful near-miss, an assassin battles his employers and himself on an international manhunt he insists isn’t personal. THE KILLER premieres on Netflix November 10.

Samsung Galaxy Watch6: Embrace a Healthier Lifestyle at Your Wrist

The Galaxy Watch6 series has BP and ECG tracking to help you  monitor your heart health 

Unlock a healthier lifestyle with Samsung's latest smart watch! The Galaxy Watch6 series is taking wellness to the next level with blood pressure and ECG monitoring and other features that help you monitor your heart health.

 

With heart disease being the country’s leading cause of death in 2022, there’s no time to waste when it comes to taking care of your health. Samsung Electronics is committed to  helping Filipinos achieve better heart health through its groundbreaking Galaxy Watch6 and Watch6 Classic, which comes with a slew of new heart-friendly and fitness features designed to improve your overall wellness. Let’s check them out!  

Blood Pressure & ECG Monitoring

Lessen your worries with a heart monitoring package that allows you to have peace of mind. The Galaxy Watch6 series has a built-in PPG sensor that periodically measures your heart rate and heart rhythm while you wear it. 

 

You can also add a quick blood pressure check with no added equipment required using your Galaxy Watch6. To enable the blood pressure monitoring feature, install the Samsung Health Monitor application onto your Galaxy smartphone and connect it to your compatible Galaxy Watch then calibrate with a traditional cuff. They will then be able to tap to “measure” the blood pressure anytime, anywhere.

The Galaxy Watch6 measures blood pressure through pulse wave analysis, which is tracked with the Heart Rate Monitoring sensors. The program then records the relationship between the calibration value and the blood pressure change to determine the blood pressure. Once the calibration and set-up process are completed, users can access this information and export measurements to PDF.

The Galaxy Watch6 also includes an electrocardiogram (ECG) function that works by recording the heart’s electrical activity via a sensor on the compatible Galaxy Watch. All you need to do is open your Samsung Health Monitor app while seated comfortably, and ensure the watch is fitted firmly to your wrist. Next, rest your forearm on a flat surface and lightly place a fingertip from the opposite hand on the top button on the smartwatch for 30 seconds.

 

The app will then measure your heart rate and rhythm, which will be displayed as either a Sinus Rhythm (a normal, regular heartbeat) or AFib (when the heart beats irregularly). You can also export this data to PDF.

 

Achieve Better Heart Health through Customized Work-outs

The Galaxy Watch6 also offers a ton of exercise features to help you create your own unique fitness journey. Start things off by checking your Body Composition  - the Galaxy Watch6 can actually measure   skeletal muscle, basal metabolic rate, body water and body fat percentage, to help give you a baseline for your fitness goals and to track your progress^[1]. Get more guidance from the new Personalized Heart Rate Zone, which will measure your heart rate based on your fitness capacity and define five optimal running intensity levels to help users set their own goals based on what fits you – from burning fat to high intensity workout.^[2]

 

In addition to over 100 existing workout trackers, the newly added Track Run records the user’s runs on a track, while Custom Workout allows users to build and track their personalized workout routine.

 

Elevated Design 

The Galaxy Watch6 and Watch6 Classic also sports key upgrades like a bigger display, a more powerful processor and battery, and even more customizable options in watch faces and bands.

 

The Galaxy Watch6 series now offers a 20% larger display^[3] to make reading and typing easier and delivers smoother and faster interactions with its new Exynos W930 Dual-Core 1.4GHz processor, resulting in 18% faster processing.  

 

You can also make your Galaxy Watch6 uniquely your own. Choose from a wide collection of bands in different styles and materials from feather, leather and even metal bands that can take you from day to night. Switching is easy - simply press the band release button to detach your watch straps then swap them out to change from workout to go-out styles with just one click. You can also customize your watch face with your favorite colors, designs - or even photos of your pet!

 

Galaxy Watch6 series comes with a larger battery and reduced battery consumption^[4] to support its larger and brighter display. With just eight minutes of quick charge, users can add an additional eight hours, perfect for tracking their sleep during the night.^[5]

 

Start a heart healthier lifestyle with the Galaxy Watch6 Series! The Galaxy Watch6 retails for PHP 16,990 (40mm) and PHP 18,990 (44 mm) while the Watch6 Classic is available at PHP 22,990 (43mm) and PHP 24,990 (47mm). 

 

For more information on the Galaxy Watch6, visit https://www.samsung.com.ph. 

 

---

^[1] Body composition should not be used if you have an implanted pacemaker or other implanted medical devices, or if you are pregnant. Measurement results may not be accurate if you are under 20 years old. Intended for general wellness and fitness purposes only. 

^[2] To update the ranges of each HR zone for running based on cardiopulmonary capabilities, it is required to run outdoors more than 10 min with constant speed of 4km/h or faster.

^[3] The screen size comparison is based on Galaxy Watch6 Small (40mm) and Galaxy Watch6 Classic Small (43mm). Compared to Galaxy Watch5 Small (40mm) and Galaxy Watch4 Classic Small (42mm) respectively. Based on Galaxy Watch6 Large (44mm) and Galaxy Watch6 Classic Large (47mm), the screen size comparison is 16%.

^[4] Compared to Galaxy Watch5 and Galaxy Watch4 Classic respectively.

^[5] Testing conducted by Samsung using pre-released version of Galaxy Watch6 and Galaxy Watch6 Classic (BT & LTE), each paired to a Samsung phone; all devices tested with prerelease software, Galaxy Watch Magnetic Fast Charging USB C Cable (EP-OR900), and Samsung 25W USB C Power Adapter (EP-TA800). Charge time varies with region, settings, usage pattern and environmental factors; actual results may vary. Samsung 25W USB C Power Adapter (EP-TA800) sold separately.

Celebrate Victory with TCL: Capturing the Winning Moments of FIBA World Cup 2023

The world’s most anticipated basketball event is happening, everyone is in high spirits! Definitely, the FIBA World Cup unites all basketball fans from around the world. Get ready to witness incredible athleticism, intense competition, and the thrill of the game. As the Philippines become one of the host countries for the FIBA games, this is one sports history you shouldn’t miss.

TCL, the world's top two TV brand and the Global Partner for this year’s FIBA Basketball World Cup will also be joining this unforgettable basketball experience. Aside from giving an immersive TV experience to the viewers, TCL will also be having an interactional booth at the FIBA Basketball Game venues (Mall of Asia Arena, Araneta Coliseum and Philippine Arena) dedicated for their IOT product showcase display.

 

Aside from the IOT Booths, TCL will also be giving the ‘TCL Player of the Game’ trophy to the best player of every FIBA  game.  Now, that’s something to look forward to!

 

“We are very ecstatic to showcase our latest product line at the TCL Booth situated at the FIBA Basketball Games venues. This is to highlight the top of the line products that we have in TCL as well as showing you our latest IOT appliances. You can see our latest offerings from Air Conditioner, Washing Machine and Refrigerators which has innovative features for your daily living. We also want to commend and congratulate the most valuable player in every game through the TCL Player of the Game trophy. It's something that they can look forward to after every game,” says Joseph Cernitchez, TCL Philippines Brand Manager. 

                                                 TCL Booth at Mall of Asia Arena 

 

Likewise, TCL is giving an elevated viewing experience with its latest C648 QLED TV, designed to provide an immersive journey through outstanding image quality. Good news, you can have your own TCL C648 QLED TV at an amazing discounted price of PHP24, 995! 

 

Enjoy the innovative features of the C648 as it is also equipped with Dolby Vision, enabling viewers to experience spellbinding scenes that come to life right before their eyes. The atmosphere was reminiscent of a theater, creating the sensation of being fully immersed rather than simply watching in a sports bar.

 

The High Dynamic Range (HDR) stands as the latest benchmark for UHD content, offering an unparalleled experience through vibrant brightness, exceptional shadow intricacies, and vivid colors. Positioned comfortably, viewers can effortlessly stream live FIBA Basketball action on the C648 TV, immersing themselves in its remarkable picture precision.

 

The C648 TV's Motion Estimation & Motion Compensation (MEMC) algorithm introduces a touch of magic, transforming fast-moving basketball court action into seamlessly fluid scenes. This innovation diminishes motion blur and eliminates image tearing, elevating the visual clarity.

Another spectacular feature of the C648 TV is  its DTS-HD and DTS Virtual:X features. These remarkable audio components create an enveloping soundscape that seems to emanate from every direction – above, beside, and behind you. This synergy delivers an immersive auditory encounter, ensuring you won't miss a beat of the action. 

 

Hurry, it’s your chance to finally own the newest TCL C648 QLED TV at an amazing discounted price of PHP24, 995! Promo is ongoing until September 17, 2023.

 

The TCL C648 and the other C models C645, C646 & C647 are available at the different TCL dealers nationwide.

 

For more updates about the upcoming promos, visit TCL’s official Facebook page or go to  https://www.tcl.com/ph/en. 

 

Celebrating National Lung Month and Raising Awareness for Lung Diseases

This August, in celebration of National Lung Month, frontrunners in the Philippine healthcare industry coalesce to increase public education on various lung diseases. The event “Lungs Matter: Raising Awareness for Respiratory Wellness” was put up by the Philippine Alliance of Patient Organizations, Psoriasis Philippines, Philippine Society for Orphan Disorders, Scleroderma Awareness Philippines, and Philippine College of Chest Physicians, supported by pharmaceutical company Boehringer Ingelheim (Philippines), Inc. 

Held at The Bayleaf Hotel in Intramuros, Manila, the event was attended by esteemed healthcare experts who shared fruitful insights on popular and lesser-known respiratory diseases, and the basics of lung care. 

Medical societies and patient-leaders unite for respiratory disease awareness campaign.

(From L-R) Ms. Jing Castañeda, host, broadcaster and journalist, Dr. JB Pimentel, Medical Advisor, BIPHI, Dr. Mae Campomanes, Chair on ILD Council, PCCP, Clare Burrows, General Manager and Head of Human Pharma, BIPHI, Marimel S. Lamsin, Treasurer, PAPO, and Dr. Janeth Samson, VP, PCCP.

 

“This National Lung Month is a good opportunity for us to focus the public’s attention on respiratory wellness, spread more awareness on the different kinds of lung disease, and call on a collective movement to support healthier air,” said Dr. Mae Campomanes, Chair for the Council on Occupational and Interstitial Lung Diseases, PCCP. 

The “Lungs Matter: Raising Awareness for Respiratory Wellness” event took guests on various forum talks, pocket activities, and wellness exercises, such as Breathwork Practices and Shibashi — an 18-posture exercise that coordinates movement with breathing and concentration. It was then followed by a meditational walk in the historic Arroceros Forest Park. Known as "Manila's last lung", the Arroceros Forest Park was a catalyst for better and healthier environment in the aim of fostering lung health. The walk was done in solidarity of all partners to focus the public’s attention on respiratory wellness and to encourage participants to make a personal pledge to supporting lung health. 

Leading the fight against lung diseases 

In 2022, the Department of Health (DOH) reported 300,000 cases of acute respiratory infection over the course of six months. Among the most common lung diseases known to Filipinos are asthma, a disease of the airways in the lungs caused by inflammation; pneumonia, which happens when fluids build up in the lungs; tuberculosis (TB), a contagious disease caused by germs; and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), an inflammation that causes obstructed airflow from the lungs. Other rare lung diseases that are equally important, but which are difficult to diagnose are interstitial lung disease (ILD), which is a group of disorders that cause progressive scarring of lung tissue.  

“There’s a wide range of topics for us to touch on regarding respiratory wellness. We at Boehringer Ingelheim, are committed to supporting our health organizations and medical societies to further increase disease education. We want to help push prevention and early diagnosis at the forefront so we can safeguard the health of many Filipinos,” said Dr. Greta Cortez, Head of Medicine for Boehringer Ingelheim (Philippines), Inc.  

Through the “Lungs Matter: Raising Awareness for Respiratory Wellness” event, advocates champion the patients’ quality of life by putting importance on prevention and early detection. This educational discussion, in honor of National Lung Month, aims to inform the public about the predispositions and risks associated with common to life-threatening respiratory diseases. 

Reference:  

Philippine records 300,000 cases of acute respiratory infection | Philstar.com 

https://legacy.senate.gov.ph/lisdata/3174828597!.pdf