Logitech G Fits combines Lightform molding technology for the perfect fit and professional-grade LIGHTSPEED wireless connectivity to create first-ever gaming-grade earbuds for gamers.
Logitech G, a brand of Logitech and leading innovator of gaming technologies and gear, today announced the Logitech G FITS True Wireless Gaming Earbuds – Logitech's first-ever gaming grade earbud which mold to any ear to create a custom fit using Logitech's patented Lightform technology. Powered by Lightspeed and Bluetooth wireless, Logitech G FITS enable gaming-grade audio performance on PC, Mac, Playstation, Nintendo Switch and mobile devices.
"The Logitech G Fits is an industry-first product innovation that is poised to be a game changer," said Bernard Chow, Head of Cluster for Singapore, Malaysia, and Philippines, Logitech. "Delivering both comfort and performance, these wireless gaming earbuds allows gamers to immerse fully into their games and to level up their playing experience."
Logitech G FITS are the first earbuds to feature LIGHTSPEED wireless, giving users pro-grade connection, high-performance audio response, strong connectivity and a long battery life. Players can connect via LIGHTSPEED to their PC, Mac, PlayStation®5, PlayStation®4, docked Nintendo Switch and Android devices through USB-A or USB-C. With up to seven hours of listening time and an additional eight hours with the charging case on LIGHTSPEED, users can play games, music and movies all day. When connected via Bluetooth, they can listen for 10 hours with an additional 12 hours with the charging case.
Like fingerprints, each person's ears are unique. Since most earbuds only come in a few generic sizes, it's nearly impossible to get earbuds that fit perfectly. With Logitech G FITS, and its patented Lightform technology, gamers can get a contoured, custom fit in 60 seconds. Using Lightform and the Logitech G FITS mobile app will trigger a number of embedded LEDs, which will harden the gel-filled tips to the contours of each ear. The custom mold technology provides a comfortable, secure fit that won't fall out and creates a seal that blocks out noise to produce a best-in-class passive sound isolation effect.
Its elegant pill-shaped design is available in two colors: black or white to fit any style. With gaming-grade performance and innovations, G FITS is a true wireless earbud option for gamers who prioritize freedom and a perfect fit.
In addition to comfort, fit and passive noise cancellation, Logitech G FITS deliver full, warm and detailed sound with deep punchy bass. With the Logitech G FITS app, gamers can access EQs that are optimized for FPS or RPG games, music, podcasts, Bass Boosts and more–or have the option to finely tune their own EQ settings.
For clear in-game communications, each earbud contains two built-in beamforming microphones. If you're playing with friends or streaming, everything you say will be heard loud and clear.
The Logitech G FITS will be available at all major local retail stores from February 1, 2023, as well as online in Logitech Official Stores on Lazada and Shopee. The suggested retail price for the Logitech G FITS is S$389.
Featured, Tech
Co-director Daniel Kwan wasn't sure if viewers would connect with the movie and its multiverse theory when it was released in March 2022, but they did.
"We tried to make a movie that everyone can relate with, but we thought we'd fail," said Kwan, who worked with co-creator Daniel Scheinert. "But it turns out we didn't, like literally everybody has something they can relate with."
It seems that Hollywood can connect. The A24 movie, which received more Oscar nominations this week than any other movie, will reopen in 1,400 cinemas throughout the country on Friday after grossing $104.1 million internationally.
At the March 12 Academy Awards, the movie is nominated for 11 Oscars, including best picture and lead actress for Michelle Yeoh. Ke Huy Quan is the front-runner for best supporting actor, while Jamie Lee Curtis and Stephanie Hsu are contending for best actress in a supporting role.
Evelyn Wang, a Chinese American immigrant who struggles with her taxes, her connection with her family, and her whole life, is followed in "Everything Everywhere All at Once" . She then learns that she may travel between parallel worlds as many selves in order to preserve the multiverse and perhaps even her familial ties.
Even after putting love and teamwork into the movie, Yeoh, who has already received a Golden Globe for the part, said one never knows how it will do.
"Once it is all done and you put it out to the world, there is no control of how it will be received, and I think sometimes it's the alignment of the stars," said the Malaysian actress.
Kwan is of the opinion that Yeoh is the reason the movie is as successful as it is. He claimed that while they were unsure of how the film would turn out, she attracted additional cast and crew members like a magnet.
Hsu portrays two of the most nuanced characters in the movie: Jobu, the evil guy from the universe, and Joy, Evelyn's daughter.
She claimed it was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and an absolute blast.
"I remember filming the hallway scene where we're introduced to Jobu for the first time," Hsu said. "And I'm going through all these costumes, I'm like doing kung-fu, I'm like blowing up a cop's face into confetti."
Sit down to a romantic Valentine's Day meal this February 14 with Thirty Six Brewlab & Smokehouse's elegant four-course set meal. Designed by their executive chef, the dinner presents a starter, soup, main course, tray of desserts and complimentary glasses of sparkling wine.
Whet your appetite with exquisitely-crafted starters, including the Scallop Ceviche that features thinly sliced scallops marinated in zesty lime juice, topped with chives
and generous dollops of caviar. A coconut and lemongrass espuma pulls the entire dish together with its refreshing Asian aroma. The Beef Tartare, which comes topped with caviar and chives alongside a house-made cheese cracker, will leave lovebirds in awe of its fresh, balanced flavours. Those on a vegetarian diet can opt for the Grilled White Asparagus, elevated with touches of freshly grated truffle, a burnt butter sauce and a chilled poached egg.
Next is the vegetarian-friendly Mushroom 'Tea,' a deeply comforting home-style dish. The clear mushroom consommé comes with mushroom ravioli boasting a hint of truffle.
Couples will have four options to choose from for their main course. Light, yet full of flavour, is the Pan Seared Atlantic Cod, presented on a bed of asparagus, mashed potato puree and pomelo and salmon roe. Meat lovers will be spoilt for choice between the Pistachio Crusted Lamb Rack, which comes with a scrummy potato cake and charred seasonal vegetables, and the Black Onyx Angus Beef Striploin, which melts in your mouth. Truffle mashed potatoes, seasonal vegetables and a morel mushroom sauce are served with the striploin. Lastly, the Truffle Risotto, with fresh seasonal truffles, portobello mushrooms and white asparagus, is cooked to velvety perfection.
Desserts are made for sharing. To sweeten this Valentine's Day, Thirty Six Brewlab & Smokehouse has curated a trio of treats, including a Crunchy Hazelnut Feuilletine, Raspberry Dome, and a Deconstructed Berry Crumble. Singles coming in during
Valentine's Day will get a choice to have either the Crunchy Hazelnut Feuilletine or Raspberry Dome alongside the crumble.
Thirty Six Brewlab & Smokehouse's Valentine's Day menu is available on 14 February 2023 for dinner at $268++ for couples and $138++ for singles. The four-course dinner is only available on a pre-order basis. For reservations, please email info@thirtysix.sg or call 6239 0350 seven days in advance.
Featured, Lifestyle
The season of love is once again blossoming as we celebrate our sweethearts this Valentine's Day. As with every big occasion in a relationship, also comes the age-old question – what gift should I get for my partner?
Forget the cliché predictable gifts of flowers and chocolates, Sony has you covered with their products offering something for everyone, the best way to let your partner know you've been thinking of them while you picked out the present.
The Partner Who Loves to Capture Moments
There's always someone in the relationship that's documenting their time together, making all the moments even more swoon worthy when they look back at their growth as a couple. If that's your significant other, gift them a newer and better way to capture these moments with the ZV-1 camera.
With features like pro-quality bokeh control, Super Slow Motion video and a powerful BIONZ X™ image processor, everything is in place to make capturing great looking videos easy even for an amateur. What's more, the lightweight and compact ZV-1 also allows for simple transfer, edit and upload of content to social media, making it a portable representation of your love for your partner to carry around.
The ZV-1 is available on the official Sony Store at a promotional price of S$959 (UP S$1,009).
Free Gift:
64GB SD Card
Sony Digital Workshop Course
The Partner Who Loves an Escape From the Bustle
We all know how crowds can prevent us from fully enjoying an experience especially if it's a date with your partner. Gift your lover an escape into their own world with the WH-1000XM5 headphones which boasts an immersive, distraction-free sound experience. Sony's industry-leading noise cancellation keeps out more mid and high frequency sounds than ever before and thanks to the Auto NC Optimiser, noise cancelling is automatically based on your wearing conditions and environment.
Looking for something smaller? The ultra small and light LinkBuds S comes into play with ambient sound automatically optimised and high quality noise cancelling to achieve an listening experience with no distractions.
With the WH-1000XM5 and LinkBuds S, give your partner the freedom to navigate their world by cutting out the noise for them. The WH-1000XM5 is available on the official Sony Store at a promotional price of S$499 (UP S$575) while the LinkBuds S is available on the official Sony Store at a promotional price of S$242 (UP S$302).
The Partner Who's The Life of The Party
Fell in love with your partner due to their lively and fun-loving charms? Amplify that with the SRS-XB33 portable speakers so that they can bring the party with them. Equipped with EXTRA BASS™, enjoy deep, punchy sounds that's sure to liven up any setting.
Be it a games night in or a day long beach outing, the washable and waterproof SRS-XB33 is there to enhance the fun. What better way to let your partner know you give them all around enjoyment than with the SRS-XB33 that embodies them perfectly. The SRS-XB33 is available on the official Sony Store at a promotional price of S$199 (UP S$279).
The Partner Who Loves Staying In
If staying in and snuggling is your favourite hangout activity, elevate that whole experience with a home cinema set up to enjoy all your favourite shows next to your favourite person. Achieve that with the BRAVIA XR A90K OLED television, where pictures are enhanced and reproduced to an incredibly lifelike experience thanks to the Cognitive Processor XR™.
Level this up with the HT-A3000 sound bar to enable the Acoustic Center sync where the HT-A3000 reinforces the center speaker channel for clearer and fuller vocals. Aside from that, expect an authentic surround sound with its center speakers and built-in dual subwoofer for immersive sounds for shows, movies and music. Never worry about how you reposition yourselves on the couch as the sound bar also intelligently measures the position of each speaker to optimise sound to your room. Treat your partner to more perfect date nights in with the A90K and HT-A3000.
The BRAVIA XR A90K is available on the official Sony Store at a promotional price of S$3,337 (UP S$4,037), while the HT-A3000 is available on the official Sony Store at a promotional price of S$1,112* (UP S$1,312).
Free Gift (A90K):
BRAVIA CAM
BRAVIA CORE
Wall-Bracket and Installation
*Additional $100 off when purchased with any 55"and above BRAVIA TVs
The Partner Who's a Professional at Their Craft
Admire your partner's craft in videography and photography? Show your support for their passion by giving them a boost to their equipment!
If your partner is always on the lookout for details in their photographs, surprise them with the A7R V which delivers sharp, refined details thanks to the latest BIONZ XR™ processing engine. It also boasts an AI processing unit dedicated to processing significant amounts of data, recognising and tracking subjects flawlessly. They can also expect greater flexibility in shooting with the new 4-axis multi-angle monitor.
Not to fret if videography is more of your partner's thing, this is where the FX3 comes in. Designed for comfortable solo shooting, the FX3 is compact and lightweight making it easy to bring around and handle even with a one-man crew. Expect a fast readout speed with the full-frame Exmor R™ CMOS sensor and high speed with the BIONZ XR™ image-processing engine. FX3 is also equipped with the acclaimed S-Cinetone™, optimised for natural skin tones and mid-range colours, with gentle highlight roll-off, for impressive subject depiction even without post production grading.
The A7R V (Body Only) is available on the official Sony Store at S$5,749, while the FX3 (Body Only) is available on the official Sony Store at S$5,904.
Free Gift (A7R V):
The Partner Who Does a Bit of Everything
Been exploring a whole range of exciting hobbies with your partner? Let them do it all with the Xperia 5 IV, made for creativity on the go. From imaging to gaming to sharing, there's nothing this phone can't support in your partner's next hobby venture.
With features like 4K HDR 120fps video recording, real-time Eye AF & tracking on all lenses as well as 360 Reality Audio, the Xperia 5 IV has all it needs for your partner to dabble into different things all from one device.
The Xperia 5 IV is available on the official Sony Store at a promotional price of S$1,449 (UP S$1,599).
Xperia 5 IV Original Case (Black)
beIN SPORTS To Exclusively Broadcast Formula One In 10 Territories In Asia
beIN SPORTS will become home to world-class motorsport broadcasting the Formula One World Championship to Hong Kong, Singapore, Malaysia, Brunei, Indonesia, Timor-Leste, Philippines, Thailand, Laos and Cambodia.
beIN SPORTS has secured exclusive rights to the Formula 1 World Championships in ten territories across Asia. The new media rights agreement begins in 2023 and runs until the conclusion of the 2025 championship which will include rights to all Grand Prix's, Sprint Races, Qualifying and Practice sessions.
Coverage begins with the season opener, the Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix from the Sakhir International Circuit from 3-5 March. The popular night race, the Singapore Airlines Singapore Grand Prix, takes place from the 15-17 September, with the 2023 Formula One season concluding in the twilight of the Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix from 24-26 November.
Other notable races include the returning Qatar Grand Prix from 6-8 October, following hot on the heels of Qatar's successful hosting of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022. The new race on the calendar for 2023 is the Heineken Silver Las Vegas Grand Prix taking place 16-18 November, which will see the drivers race along the iconic strip in F1's first Saturday race for almost 40 years.
The ten Asian territories included in the agreement are Hong Kong, Singapore, Malaysia, Brunei, Indonesia, Timor-Leste, Philippines, Thailand, Laos and Cambodia.
Formula 1's coverage on beIN SPORTS channels will be available on major pay-tv platforms in the region, including on beIN's live streaming app, beIN SPORTS CONNECT.
Mike Kerr, Managing Director beIN Asia Pacific, said: "We are extremely excited to add Formula 1 as we continue to invest in strengthening our ever-expanding line-up of sports content for our viewers. With the rapid growth Formula 1 has experienced in recent years, we look forward to working alongside Formula 1 to broaden its fan base in our markets by bringing an unparalleled viewing experience across all screens."
Ian Holmes, Director of Media Rights and Content Creation at Formula 1, said: "Following a number of years of growing interest across Asia, we are delighted to announce this partnership with beIN SPORTS. As Formula 1 continues to attract new fans around the world, world class broadcasting is key, and this agreement will allow us to find new and innovative ways for our Asian fans to follow and engage with our sport."
Kicking off in Bahrain and concluding in Abu Dhabi, motorsport fans can look forward to another season full of drama and excitement. Red Bull Racing's Max Verstappen will be looking to defend his crown, having won the last two drivers titles. His team will also be defending the Constructors' Championship, having dethroned Mercedes to claim the title for the first time in eight seasons.
Formula One joins a packed schedule of live premium sporting action on beIN SPORTS. In 2022, beIN acquired two tennis Grand Slams – Australian Open and Roland-Garros – in 10 territories across the Asia region, covering five editions of the tournament – from 2022 to 2026. beIN's breadth of sports content includes the ATP Tour, UEFA Champions League, UEFA Europa League, FA Cup, LaLiga, Serie A, Ligue 1, and more – sealing beIN SPORTS' position as the number one multi-sport destination in Asia.
Ignite love and passion this Valentine's Day at Marina Bay Sands
Marina Bay Sands is ringing in the season of love with a series of exclusive set menus and Valentine's Day themed creations from 11 award-winning restaurants, ranging from waterfront dining with prime views of the glistening Marina Bay to sky-high dining from 57 storeys above. Set hearts aflutter over elegant Valentine's Day menus at Bread Street Kitchen & Bar and db Bistro & Oyster Bar, before taking romance to new heights with magnificent feasts at Spago Dining Room and LAVO Italian Restaurant & Rooftop Bar.
Couples can also luxuriate over an impressive selection of steaks at one-Michelin-starred CUT by Wolfgang Puck, or relish the season's finest harvest with WAKUDA's bespoke eight-course omakase experience. KOMA Singapore will also be offering a grand six-course dinner affair for two, while Yardbird Southern Table & Bar elevates Valentine's Day celebrations with a line-up of à la carte dishes. Swoon over live melodies by local singer-songwriter Syakirah Noble at Renku Bar & Lounge, and sweeten date night with Black Tap's Red Velvet Cake Shake before taking home beautiful cakes and baked treats at Origin + Bloom.
Come February, add a sprinkle of sweet romance with Black Tap's exclusive Red Velvet Cake Shake (S$24++). Available on 13 and 14 February, the limited-time CrazyShake® features a red velvet cake batter shake served in a towering glass with a vanilla frosted rim and red and white sprinkles, crowned with a slice of red velvet cake, whipped cream, and chocolate drizzle.
In celebration of Glow Festival, the world's first multi-sensory, wellness-themed festival space design concept taking place at Sands Expo & Convention Centre, Black Tap Singapore has specially created the G&T Punch (S$21++). Available from 1 to 12 February, the fruity tipple boasts a refreshing blend of umeshu, lime juice, and vibrant indigo Butterfly Pea Gin. The first few guests to order the special concoction will also receive a complimentary wellness session at the Glow Festival. For reservations, visit marinabaysands.com/restaurants/black-tap.html.
This Valentine's Day (14 February), charm your significant other at Bread Street Kitchen & Bar Singapore over a three-course set dinner menu (S$120++ per person). From early evening through to the night, bask in views of the glistening Marina Bay waters while revelling in a glass of welcome Prosecco and the amuse-bouche of oyster, chives, ginger-soy dressing.
Diners can enjoy a choice of starters, from the signature potted salt beef brisket – best enjoyed atop seeded crackers and a dollop of piccalilli – to beetroot-cured salmon or a refreshing bowl of stilton, apples, celery, spiced walnut, endives and apple cider vinaigrette to whet their appetite. For mains, indulge in Bread Street Kitchen's show-stopping beef wellington, a delightful roast accompanied by creamy truffle brie mash potatoes, seasonal vegetables and a side of red wine jus, or opt for comforting plates like creamy wild mushroom risotto topped with generous servings of parmesan and truffle basil pesto or the poached seabass in soy dashi broth. Cap off the evening with a special Valentine's Day sweet treat – mango & passionfruit cheesecake, white chocolate, pistachio crumble with luscious mango sorbet – or pick the romantic heart of chocolate filled with premium pralines.
Bread Street Kitchen's Valentine's Day menu is available on the evening of 14 February only. For reservations, visit marinabaysands.com/restaurants/bread-street-kitchen.html.
This Valentine's Day, treat your better half to a memorable dinner date at CUT by Wolfgang Puck, as the one-Michelin starred restaurant assembles a luxurious four-course menu (S$250++ per person) exclusively available for the evening[1]. Begin the feast with two delightful amuse-bouche – the luscious Kaluga caviar, uni, dashi soy jelly, horseradish panna cotta, and the restaurant's signature CUT 'Sliders' – before proceeding to a choice of premium starters such as the sautéed jumbo lump crab cake with basil aioli, tomato relish, micro cress, or the bone marrow flan, mushroom marmalade, Périgord black truffles.
For mains, indulge in CUT's fine selection of award-winning steaks, ranging from the signature U.S.D.A Prime Illinois corn-fed 21-days aged steak to the premium wagyu beef such as the prized Snake River Farms Idaho American wagyu (top up an additional S$85++ for 170g filet mignon or S$95++ for 280g eye of rib steak) or the Hokkaido Snow New York sirloin steak served with yuzu Kosho butter (top up an additional S$145++ for a 150g steak). Diners with a penchant for seafood can also opt for the grilled French turbot, or supplement S$90++ to enjoy the whole roasted Maine lobster, black truffle sabayon (1kg). Pair mains with a trio of sharing sides for the table, including the fried pee wee potatoes, crisp shallots, garlic aioli; the roasted brussels sprouts, smoked bacon, cipollini; as well as the creamed spinach, fried organic egg.
Close the memorable evening with a sharing dessert, and indulge in the rich Valrhona chocolate soufflé, crème fraiche cream, raspberry gelato, or the freshly baked warm butterscotch apple crumble, toasted almonds, Tahitian vanilla ice-cream. All couples will also receive a box of chocolates and a stalk of rose as a sweet memento. For reservations, visit marinabaysands.com/restaurants/cut.html.
Wine glasses in a restaurant setting.
This Valentine's Day, ignite love and passion over db Bistro & Oyster Bar's romantic four-course Valentine's Day dinner (S$148++ per person), inspired by the freshest produce of the season. Commence the evening with briny oscietra caviar, served with broccoli mousseline and creamy lemon bavarois, before enjoying the refreshing Alaskan snow crab salad, enlivened with tart grapefruit, creamy avocado and spicy green chillis. The star of the meal is the Mediterranean sea bass 'en papillote', featuring a juicy filet baked within a paper envelope to lock in all its flavours.
The dish is accompanied with crisp potato mille-feuille, fragrant leek custard and sauce beurre rouge, a traditional French red wine butter sauce. Guests who prefer a meatier main can indulge in the tender wagyu beef striploin, topped with decadent black truffles, and a classic Bordelaise sauce. End the date on a sweet note with the mesmerising raspberry & rose gateau, served with ambrosial lychee sorbet.
Reservations are required, and dishes are subject to seasonal availability. Visit marinabaysands.com/restaurants/db-bistro-and-oyster-bar.html.
Impress your date with a starry-eyed Valentine's Day dinner at KOMA Japanese Restaurant & Sushi Bar, as the modern Japanese restaurant curates a grand six-course menu (S$388++ for two persons) for one night only. Whet your appetite with Irish premium oysters, topped with sake jelly and aromatic hanaho (shisho flowers), before savouring the sushi and sashimi moriawase – an assortment of fresh salmon, tai (sea bream) and tuna sashimi with KOMA's Valentine's Day special sushi roll.
The lavish meal ensues with the innovative beef cigar, served with a flavourful the majestic pork tomahawk seasoned with miso and served with a sweet corn salsa, and the grilled whole branzino spruced up with zesty notes of lemon yuzu and a refreshing mix of Asian greens. KOMA will also serve its rendition of miso tomato 'paella', packed with chicken, chorizo and green peas, before a surprise Valentine's Day dessert. For reservations, visit marinabaysands.com/restaurants/koma-singapore.html.
This Valentine's Day (14 February), LAVO Italian Restaurant & Rooftop Bar will be celebrating romance with four decadent à la carte specials, available for both lunch and dinner. Couples can bask in panoramic views of Singapore's city lights as they savour fresh Fine de Claire oysters (eight for S$55++), topped with green apple granita infused with Monkey 47 Dry Gin. Relish the timeless combination of seafood and champagne with the risotto, langoustine, carpaccio and champagne (S$65++), and indulge in the lavish poached blue lobster, Catalan sauce and kaluga caviar (S$210++) for a memorable treat. Close the romantic evening with LAVO's 20-layer red velvet cake (S$26++), a remarkable masterpiece featuring layers of citrusy lime cream cheese interlaced with moist red velvet sponge cake. For reservations, visit marinabaysands.com/restaurants/lavo.html.
Over at contemporary Chinese restaurant Mott 32 Singapore, diners with a penchant for authentic Chinese cuisine will delight in the restaurant's four-course 'Everlasting Love Set Menu' (S$188++ per person; minimum two persons), available for lunch and dinner on 14 February. Commence the feast with a quartet of the restaurant's best-selling starters, which include the signature hot and sour soup dumpling, traditional Iberico pork Shanghainese soup dumpling, the tender barbecue Iberico pork, yellow mountain honey, as well as the aromatic cold free-range chicken, coriander, black truffle, before sipping on the comforting fish maw, double boiled fish bone broth, bamboo pith, Chinese cabbage. Seafood lovers will indulge in the trio of mains, ranging from the crispy Boston lobster, pik feng tong style, to the succulent braised whole fresh African abalone, oyster sauce with shiitake mushroom and the sticky black cod, mustard yuzu sauce. Wrap up the meal with a flaky baked egg tart, impeccably paired with tangy caramelized pomelo ice cream. Couples who enjoy this special menu can further elevate the celebratory feast with a bottle of Piper Heidsieck Brut Champagne (S$108++). For reservations, visit marinabaysands.com/restaurants/mott32.html.
Take home treats from Origin + Bloom this Valentine's Day, as the European-inspired patisserie presents an ode to love through a beautiful array of entremets (multi-layered cakes), pastries and baked treats. This year's line-up marries seasonal fruits like Japanese strawberries and raspberries with a variety of complementary flavours. The stars of the show are the entremets such as Charlotte berries (S$90), a multi-layered spin on the patisserie's popular Charlotte cake featuring pistachio mousseline and fresh berries, and strawberries tart (S$90) layered with almond cream. Delight in intricate creations like the coeur (S$110) featuring a robust combination of raspberry jam, ginger genoise and yuzu mousse, and love rose (S$12), a mini cake shaped like the flower and filled with vanilla mousse, strawberry compote and peach jelly.
Those with a penchant for classic European treats will enjoy a twist on the classic éclair (S$12), filled with raspberry marmalade and mascarpone mousse, and Barquettes Saint Valentin (S$10), a special Danish viennoiserie topped with fresh raspberries and raspberry marmalade. Families can also celebrate the occasion with the heart-shaped sourdough (S$8), or opt for the hibiscus tea infused tarte tropézienne (S$12), a flavourful brioche smothered with fresh raspberries.
Origin + Bloom's Valentine's Day specials are available in-store from 11 to 14 February. For enquiries, visit marinabaysands.com/restaurants/origin-and-bloom.html.
Embrace in a cosy date night at Renku Bar & Lounge this Valentine's Day (14 February), as local singer-songwriter Syakirah Noble (@syakirahnoble) captivates late night revellers with her jazzy rendition of popular pop songs and originals together with her live pianist.
Enjoy the melodic tunes over Renku's Valentine's Day special cocktail – Perfect Love (S$18++). Presented in an elegant champagne flute, the pink-hued tipple is shaken with Singapore Distillery's Stolen Roses gin, Cointreau and cherry liqueur and finished with prosecco and lemon juice. Diners can also choose to tailor their Gin & Tonic (S$24++ per glass) from Renku's roving trolley service featuring eight distinctive locally distilled spirits.
Pair these tipples with Renku's evening menu that journeys diners through the world, from the Mediterranean region with mezze platter (S$23++) and Japan for deep fried octopus karaage (S$21++), to perennial local favourites like chicken satay (S$23++) and char kway teow (S$25++). Sharing platters are also available, such as Renku platter (S$55++), a selection of classic favourites starring hickory-smoked chicken tenders, lamb kebabs and mini beef sliders, and chef's daily selection of cheeses from regional purveyors through cheese platter (S$23++).
Renku Bar & Lounge is open to walk-in guests every evening from 7.30pm to 12am. For more information, visit marinabaysands.com/restaurants/renku-bar-and-lounge.html.
This Valentine's Day, take romance to new heights with a magnificent three-course dinner (S$188++ per person) at Spago Dining Room perched 57 stories high. Couples can each take their pick from an array of nine tantalising starters, which include the refreshing hamachi & Hokkaido scallop 'ceviche' – an uplifting appetiser featuring thick cuts of fresh yellowtail and Hokkaido scallop sashimi doused in a yuzu-perfumed soy sauce and topped with briny ikura, coriander and minty kinome.
For mains, savour the restaurant's original creation of pan seared sea bream "laksa", a brilliant combination of crispy rice noodles and juicy fillet in a fragrant curried coconut broth, or opt for the brioche stuffed Brisbane Valley quail, accompanied by roasted brussels sprouts, confit bacon, fennel and creamy foie gras. Round up the romantic feast with Spago's signature fluffy salted caramel soufflé, served with Farmer's Market fuji apple sorbet, or the decadent black forest mille-feuille, a layered treat of kirsch chantilly, flourless chocolate cake and cherry compote, served with morello cherry gelato.
Revellers seeking a one-of-a-kind bar experience can now enjoy a night to remember with Spago Bar and Lounge's newly introduced 'Shades of Spago' bar programme. Happening from 8pm to midnight on the last Saturday of the month, each enthralling night is themed after a different colour. Turn up the heat with a sultry scarlet red February edition (25 February), before hues of electric lilac and lime green take the stage for the March edition (25 March). Priced at S$48++, the experience includes one of Spago's evocative cocktails inspired by the theme, such as the vivacious pink-hued Forbidden Kiss for February – a blend of Hendrick's Gin, fresh raspberries, rose elixir, and lemon. Come dressed to impress, and make merry all night long to cool beats by renowned DJ Patrick Oliver, set against a spectacular backdrop of Singapore's city skyline.
This Valentine's Day, toast to a romantic evening at WAKUDA Restaurant & Bar, as the restaurant curates an exquisite eight-course omakase menu (S$350++ per person). Indulge in a bespoke dining journey as veteran chefs present an artful menu that combines deft culinary mastery with prized ingredients and the freshest seasonal catch from around the globe. For a truly luxurious experience, complement the elegant dinner with a wine and sake pairing menu, available at a supplement of S$108++.
Limited seats are available, and reservations are required; call 6688 8885 or email
wakuda.reservations@marinabaysands.com.
This Valentine's Day (14 February), explore two brand-new, limited-time à la carte creations at Yardbird Southern Table & Bar over one-for-one Valentine's Day cocktails.
Savour the unagi foie gras terrine (S$78++), a celebration of the land and sea where rich and creamy foie gras is complemented with a hint of charred flavours from grilled unagi. This decadent appetiser is elevated with complementary pairings like Riesling wine jelly and Calvados poached apples, and served with house-made brioche.Tickle the senses with the tea smoked duck breast (S$88++) made with Yardbird's secret smoking technique using tea leaves.
The skillfully handcrafted entrée is seared with the highest precision to retain its juiciness and tenderness, and served with duck leg confit and crisp feuille de brick, alongside bitter chocolate bourbon & raspberry noisette sauce culminating in a harmonious blend of flavours. Pair these delightful creations with the Match Maker, a secret concoction that is spirit driven and combines ripe berries with a hint of citrus and presence of botanical bouquet on the palate. For reservations, visit marinabaysands.com/restaurants/yardbird-southern-table-and-bar.html.
The Audi Activesphere Concept
As the fourth model in the series, the Audi activesphere concept marks the culmination of sphere concept vehicles brought forth by the brand with the four rings. Following on from the Audi skysphere roadster in 2021, and both the Audi grandsphere sedan, and the Audi urbansphere space concept in April 2022, a four-door crossover coupé with an astonishingly versatile body design is now making its debut.
Standing 4.98 meters long, the highly elegant car is more than a mere luxury-class sports car, with impressive ground clearance, and large 22-inch wheels announcing its off-road talent. The Sportback rear of the activesphere can turn into an open cargo bed ("active back") at the touch of a button – perfect for carrying recreational equipment such as e-bikes or water and winter sports gear.
By combining opposites in perfect synthesis, the Audi activesphere proves to be a versatile crosser of boundaries, with a drive system and suspension which make it equally adept on both on and off the road. The steering wheel and pedals allow the driver to actively control the car, while also offering autonomous driving for a more relaxed time on the road. As a coupé that is as elegant as it is dynamic, it features classic proportions and lines, but in just a few seconds, the car transforms into a pickup for transporting top-class sports gear – there is even enough space for two e-bikes in the cargo bed.
The concept car was conceived and designed at the Audi Design Studio in Malibu, just a stone's throw away from the Pacific Coast Highway, the legendary coastal road. Studio manager Gael Buzyn and his team are the creative minds behind the project. He describes the idea behind the project: "The activesphere is unique. It is a new type of crossover that cleverly combines the elegance of an Audi Sportback, the practicality of a SUV and true offroad capabilities."
With an electric drive and quick-charging technology from Audi's PPE modular system, the Audi activesphere joins the sphere family of concept vehicles. With no local emissions, a range of over 600 km, and extremely fast charging times thanks to 800-volt technology, it combines the sustainability, dynamics and long-distance capability of state-of-the-art electric vehicles.
Oliver Hoffmann, Member of the Board of Management for Technical Development: "The sphere concept vehicles show our vision for the premium mobility of the future. We are experiencing a paradigm shift, especially in the interior of our future Audi models. The interior becomes a place where the passengers feel at home and can connect to the world outside at the same time. The most important technical innovation in the Audi activesphere is our adaptation of augmented reality for mobility. Audi dimensions creates the perfect synthesis between the surroundings and digital reality."
The autonomous chauffeuring capability on suitable terrain gives drivers and passengers a new level of freedom, which, thanks to the new display and operating technology, can be used in the activesphere in a variety of ways. The innovative operating concept, Audi dimensions, combines the physical and virtual worlds (i.e., mixed reality) by displaying digital content in the occupants' fields of vision in real time.
High-tech headsets provide a view of the real environment and the route, while simultaneously displaying 3D content and interactive elements – individually configurable for drivers and passengers.
This means all driver-relevant information, such as driving status and navigation, can be displayed. And in the interior, headset users can see control panels and other virtual displays in a tidy, minimalist design that remains hidden to the unaided eye. Mixed reality optics gives users the ability to interact precisely with these real, yet invisible, touch-sensitive zones, as the headsets display and carry out functions by reacting in real time when users touch them.
As a perfect all-rounder, the Audi activesphere concept is ideally suited for the high demands of a future-oriented generation of Audi customers – people for whom individual mobility and sustainability are not mutually exclusive. Also, owners who expect their vehicle to deliver the brand's typical aesthetics and dynamism in the highest degree, combined with future-oriented technology. For these customers, the Audi activesphere concept acts as a fascinating vision of crossing the boundaries between these dimensions.
Robust elegance – exterior design
Its dimensions – 4.98 meters long, 2.07 meters wide, and 1.60 meters high – make the Audi activesphere concept a member of the premium segment. Typical of an electric car, the wheelbase is a generous 2.97 meters, providing maximum legroom for passengers. The front and rear overhangs are correspondingly short for a much more compact impression than the mere numbers indicate. From all perspectives, the Audi activesphere concept appears monolithic, as if from a single mold.
Large 22-inch wheels and striking ground clearance, the flat cabin so typical of an Audi, and a dynamic roof arch give the car proportions that are distinctly reminiscent of a sports car.
The 285/55 tires are voluminous enough for all types of terrain, and their contoured tread highlights the activesphere's talent for off-road use. The wheels feature movable segments: when used off-road, they open for optimum ventilation, and they close on-road for optimum aerodynamics. The elegant, stylish camera mirrors on the two front doors are also designed specifically to minimise drag.
The absence of hard edges results in smooth transitions between convex and concave surfaces throughout the body, as well as in soft shadows. Viewed from the side and rear, the rear wheel wells appear markedly horizontal, visualising the dynamic potential of the concept vehicle.
Glass surfaces make up a significant part of the vehicle's body – and by no means just at head height. The front end of the activesphere features the brand face, the Singleframe, designed as a transparent glazing to afford passengers an unobstructed view through the large frunk of the road in front of the vehicle.
There are also glass surfaces on the side in the lower door area, which seem to dissolve the boundary between the natural world and the interior when the activesphere is in off-road mode. The wide, curved tailgate features extensive glazing for optimum lighting, whilst even the roof itself is transparent, letting plenty of daylight into the interior.
The exterior look specifically signals the vehicle's off-road capability and, with its voluminous wheel arches, portrays the variable, electronically controlled quattro all-wheel drive. The Audi activesphere's ground clearance is also variable; ideal for off-road use, it can be increased by 40 millimetres from the basic height of 208 millimetres, or lowered by the same amount when driving on-road. This benefits both the centre of gravity and aerodynamics when driving fast. The approach angle of the Audi activesphere – relevant for off-road drives – is 18.9 degrees, the departure angle 28.1 degrees.
The variable ground clearance is reminiscent of an Audi model family that has attracted an enthusiastic, loyal fan base in the C and later B segments since 2000 – the Audi allroad. From the first generation, this family also features air-spring suspension with variable ground clearance and a visually offset floor assembly with underride guard elements as a significant design feature. Equally significant for all allroad models is the Avant package option.
The activesphere marks the first time that a car with a Sportback hatchback incorporates the design elements and technical equipment of an allroad. For this reason, Audi calls the new body variant "active Sportback" in contrast to the allroad.
Another new variation of the allroad theme – the Audi activesphere concept features dark, high-gloss paint finishes in Arctic Teal on the front and rear as well as underneath the doors in the side area, plus matte surfaces that visually juxtapose the floor assembly and cabin. Metal strips with slightly offset vertical studs, arranged parallel to one another, are integrated here. These elements deploy when the ground clearance is increased, visualising the off-road mode.
As with its relative, the Audi grandsphere concept, the doors of the Audi activesphere, which are attached to the A- and C-pillars at the front and rear, open in opposite directions; there is no B-pillar here either. This innovation means the entire interior space opens up to passengers as soon as they get into the car.
Right and left above the Singleframe, the narrow headlight units appear like focused eyes. The lighting units echo the logo of the brand with the four rings by enlarging and isolating the intersection of two rings to form a pupil – a new, unmistakable digital light signature that Audi first introduced in the Audi grandsphere: the Audi eye. In the activesphere, this signature is now varied – on-road and off-road driving modes each have their own variant. Daytime running lights and rear lights use ultra-fine micro-LED technology for even greater precision and contrast.
Sportback and active back – variable rear architecture
The Audi activesphere concept is a crosser of boundaries, which means it is a master of metamorphosis. Its rear section in particular reflects the active lifestyle of its customers and makes it possible to transport even bulky sports gear– without sacrificing the elegance and sportiness of the Sportback silhouette.
If required, the transparent rear window slides are almost flush with the roof of the Audi activesphere. At the same time, the lower, vertical segment of the rear folds horizontally – this opens up an ample cargo bed called the active back that features brackets for e-bikes, for example. The lateral surfaces of the rear, the C-pillars, remain in position to maintain the activesphere's dynamic silhouette, whilst a motorised bulkhead deploys from behind the rear seats in order to isolate the cabine from the elements.
A ski rack is integrated in the centre of the roof structure. Completely flush in nominal position and practically invisibly in the roof arch, it extends if required, so that skis can be safely attached and transported.
Prioritised interior – people-focused
"Sphere" sets the tone: the common name component of the Audi skysphere, grandsphere, urbansphere, and now also the activesphere, alludes to the interior. Kilowatts and km/h or lateral acceleration are no longer at the top of the design specifications for this new generation of cars. Instead, the starting point is the interior, the occupants' living and experience sphere whilst traveling. Their needs and desires shape the space, the architecture, and the functions.
With that reassessment, the design process itself changes. At the beginning of all discussions, the focus is directed toward the interior and its design. Only then are the package, proportions, and lines of the exterior designed.
Functional and minimalist – the interior
The epitome of clarity and tidiness – this is the first impression for passengers as they climb into the interior of the Audi activesphere through the wide-open doors.
Vertical and horizontal surfaces, along with right angles dominate the architecture of the space. The interior zones feature horizontal contrasting colouring and the reigning centrepiece is the seating surfaces and door and front panelling in warm lava red, which contrast with the dark exterior even when looking through the side windows. Above and below this central zone, dark colours (black, anthracite, and dark gray) also dominate.
The four individual seats are suspended like extensions of the high, full-length centre console. Resting on the centre console, the upper end of the seat shell's inner side is shaped horizontally as an armrest. The designers imagined the seat, back, and shoulder surfaces as three separate, circumferential shells; the visual appearance alone already promises good lateral support. They also appear so light as to float and thus maintain the balance between automotive function and the elegance of a lounge chair.
When the Audi activesphere concept is driving in autonomous mode, the dashboard, steering wheel, and pedals disappear into an invisible position. Especially in the first row of seats, a wide space opens in front of the driver, which extends to the front end of the activesphere – and beyond. For a clear field of vision, the fully glazed Singleframe gives passengers an unobstructed view of the road in front.
The dashboard itself works like a xlarge soundbar (through the wood lammels) as well as a smart, full width air vent in both the deployed and stowed position.
If the driver wants to take over the wheel, the dashboard, along with the steering wheel, swivels out from its flush position below the windshield – each driver can adjust the ideal ergonomic position individually. The MMI touchless controls in the doors are always accessible to the eye and the hand, for example to control windows and seat adjustments.
The architecture and sense of space in the Audi activesphere are largely determined by the high, full-length centre console. Of course, in electric cars the console is no longer needed to hold a cardan shaft, but instead offers space for storage and an on-board bar – either cooled or heated. The top cover is transparent, which provides a view of the bottle and glasses, but also visually integrates the voluminous console in the interior. Additionally, there is a console in the roof, directly above the centre console and reflecting its dimensions, where the four AR headsets for the mixed reality system are kept within easy reach for all passengers.
Audi dimensions – traversing worlds
Crossing boundaries is the strength of the Audi activesphere concept – and this also applies to the interface between the car, the user, and the environment. For the first time, the new system combines physical reality and the digital sphere to create a new world: the Audi dimensions.
The centrepiece of the new system is innovative mixed reality headsets – available individually for each driver and passenger. Users also have access to a comprehensive digital ecosystem while they're in the Audi activesphere.
In the early days, VR goggles were limited to depicting a virtual reality without any real-world elements. However, technology evolved into augmented reality, whereby the real world is superimposed with virtual content. Mixed reality is now able to depict virtual content with spatial reference to the real world in three dimensions. There's no doubt about it: in the future, mixed reality will take the possibilities of AR head-up displays to a whole new level in terms of flexibility, precision, and displayable content.
The Audi activesphere concept is the first to use a pioneering generation of this technology, which in turn adds the dimension of interaction to the dimension of superimposed real and digital worlds. With unprecedented optical precision, highest resolution, and excellent contrast, the system brings control surfaces and displays, invisible to the unaided eye, into the user's field of vision while behind the steering wheel.
In other words, the user can view virtual content, which is initially for information only. If the user focuses with his or her eyes on the information, thus signalling interest, the system displays more detailed information. Content becomes an active and interactive element as soon as the user is focused and engages, i.e., with gestures.
The hand can then intuitively follow the user's gaze to control car functions, while the user interface (the virtual display in the headset) reacts to changes in real time like a conventional instrument. A particularly user-friendly feature, the virtual control moves towards the user so that he or she can interact comfortably with the user interface, regardless of sitting position.
The tidy, spacious interior of the Audi activesphere no longer has to take a back seat to the function of keyboards and scale batteries, as was always the case in classic car cockpits. Only when users need an element does it appear, and it can be operated just as intuitively as it would in the real world. Important: The diverse functions of the car are now not organised in the typical way they are today in a car with screens and physical function. But they are instead located logically directly in front of the elements they are related to. Just two examples: the AC control hoovers in front of the air vent, the entertainment and sound interactive panel hoovers over the speaker.
However, the possibilities of this technology are by no means exhausted. In off-road mode, for example, high-resolution 3D topography graphics can be projected onto the real landscape and information on navigation and the destination can be displayed. Traffic safety information, i.e., alerts for traffic jams or slippery roads, can also be used here.
Depending on their needs and tasks, passengers and drivers are provided with very individual content in their respective mixed reality headset. With the driver concentrating on steering while active behind the wheel, passengers can begin looking into and even preparing activities at the destination.
Yet, at the same time they can also control the temperature and air supply for their seating area with the air conditioning, as well as browse the music selection of the sound system, which each occupant can use individually. Because the headsets are precisely designed to match the geometry of the activesphere interior, they can even project virtual index cards onto the centre console to visualise access to web content. Since the sensors of the mixed reality headsets measure the interior with millimetre precision, virtual content can be superimposed according to personal requirements and even used for individual interaction.
The connection between the headset users and the car, along with its ecosystem, offers countless possibilities, even when outside the car. For example, while navigation routes or vehicle maintenance can be prepared today from your living room on a laptop or tablet, in the future mixed reality technology and the headset will be the only hardware required.
Conversely, the activesphere passenger can take his or her headset out of the car and onto the ski slope to help navigate the bike trail or to find the ideal descent when skiing downhill.
Information about the car itself, the battery range, and the nearest charging stations can also be accessed inside and outside the vehicle. And when needed, there are also advance warnings such as of low tire pressure as well as a weather forecast function as a criterion for selecting a route.
PPE – customised drive technology
Due to its dimensions and performance level, the Audi activesphere concept lends itself to the use of Audi's most innovative electric drive system: the Premium Platform Electric, or PPE for short.
Like the related Audi grandsphere and Audi urbansphere concept cars, the activesphere concept draws on this modular system for series production. It is being developed under Audi's leadership together with Porsche AG – the first Audi production vehicles based on PPE will be presented, one after the other, before the end of 2023.
The PPE is designed exclusively for battery-electric drive systems and can therefore take full advantage of all the benefits of this technology – for the betterment of the cars' driving characteristics, economy, and package options.
As a result, Audi can effectively expand the range of electric vehicles in its portfolio via the high-volume B- and C-segments. In addition, economies of scale will allow luxury-class technology and various different model versions to be incorporated into a wide-ranging lineup of models unrivalled in the premium market.
The PPE is the first platform designed to accommodate an unprecedented range of high-volume automobiles – including SUVs and CUVs with high ground clearance as well as cars with a flat silhouette that are part of Audi's core product range, such as the Audi A6 series, whose external dimensions and wheelbase are almost identical to the Audi activesphere concept.
The key element of the future PPE fleet is a battery module between the axles; in the Audi activesphere concept, it holds around 100 kWh of energy. Using the entire car width between the axles makes it possible to achieve a relatively flat layout for the battery.
Electric motors on the front and rear axles of the all-wheel drive Audi activesphere concept together deliver a total output of 325 kW and a system torque of 720 Newton meters. The front and rear wheels are connected via a five-link axle. The concept car features Audi adaptive air suspension with adaptive dampers.
Fast charging with 800 volts
The heart of the drive technology in all future PPE models will be the 800-volt charging technology. This ensures that the battery, like the one in the Audi e-tron GT quattro[1] before it, can be charged with up to 270 kW in a very short time at fast-charging stations. This revolutionary technology will enter the high-volume mid-range and luxury segments with the PPE for the very first time.
The PPE technology enables charging times that come close to a conventional refuelling stop for a combustion engine car. Just 10 minutes is sufficient time to take enough energy on board to power the car for more than 300 kilometres.
And in less than 25 minutes, the 100 kWh battery charges from 5 to 80 percent. Together with its range of well over 600 kilometres, the Audi activesphere thus positions itself as unconditionally suitable for long distances, when need be.
Automotive, Featured
Joelinton, a Midfielder For Newcastle, Was Fined 29,000 Pounds For Drinking and Driving
Joelinton, a midfielder for Newcastle United, was given a $36,000 fine and a 12-month driving penalty by a British court on Thursday, according to the media.
The 26-year-old was stopped in the early hours of Jan. 12. Northumbria Police charged Joelinton with "driving whilst above the prescribed limit for alcohol". He had admitted the charge.
If he successfully completes a rehabilitation course, the driving restriction will be lowered to nine months, according to Sky Sports.
Tuesday's League Cup semifinal first leg between Newcastle United and Southampton ended in a 1-0 victory for Newcastle United thanks to a second-half goal from the Brazilian, who was escorted to court by a club security officer.
Ronaldo's Al Nassr is eliminated from the Saudi Super Cup.
Al Nassr, led by Cristiano Ronaldo, were eliminated from the Saudi Super Cup on Thursday after falling to Al Ittihad 3-1 in the semi-final in Riyadh.
The five-time Ballon d'Or winner and 37-year-old Portugal international was effectively restrained by the Al Ittihad defense for the majority of the game despite having a few scoring opportunities.
The 67th-minute goal by Al Nassr's Anderson Talisca was unable to erase Al Ittihad's two first-half goals from Romarinho and Abderrazak Hamdallah.
Adding the third three minutes into stoppage time was Muhannad Al-Shanqeeti.
The Saudi Pro League's Al Nassr will next visit Al Fateh on February 3.
Lemonier, Former Detroit Lions Linebacker Dies at 25
Former linebacker Jessie Lemonier of the Detroit Lions has passed away at the age of 25, according to an NFL team on Thursday.
In 2020, Lemonier signed a professional contract with the Los Angeles Chargers. In the 2021 season, he participated in seven games for the Lions.
"We are shocked and saddened to learn of the passing of former Detroit Lion Jessie Lemonier," the Lions wrote on Twitter.
"Jessie was a model team mate and wonderful young man who is gone far too soon. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends during this difficult time."
After joining the Houston Gamblers, Lemonier was recently traded to the Birmingham Stallions of the United States Football League.
The Lions withheld information on the manner of death.
Breiden Fehoko, a defensive end with the Chargers, tweeted images of himself and Lemonier with the caption: "We came in to the league together had to battle through everything rookie year to get where we are. You were always filled with life bro. I LOVE YOU BRO!"