Her GadgetMatch

Mercury in retrograde: When technology and communications go haywire

Your survival guide to a crazy season

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Buckle up, everyone! Mercury is in retrograde once again. In Astrology, this means the planet that governs technology, communications, and our very own thought processes spins backward. In our reality, it means doomsday is coming. (Kidding!)

When Mercury is in retrograde, flights and travels are usually delayed, people from the past pop back into our lives, communication systems break down, and our gadgets get into accidents or start malfunctioning.

More importantly, this season makes everything fluid. Nothing will be set in stone. Decisions are usually changed when the season ends, so it’s not a good time to sign contracts, schedule surgeries, have makeovers, launch a new project, or shop for electronic devices.

But fret not, this season shall pass. Here’s what you should do before, during, and after the Mercury retrograde.

Protect your gadgets and gizmos with trusty cases and accessories

Honey, this season makes us feel frustrated, agitated, and annoyed. Often, we’ll be rushing and getting into accidents. You might drop your phone on the toilet, break them, or forget them in a cab or restaurant. You gotta get yourself some straps to keep your phone with you at all times and dress them up with hard, shock-proof cases. Should they fall from your hands, you know they’re safe.

Back up your data, make sure it’s safe and secure

Okay, Jenny, listen up. Mercury in retrograde is the season where we lose important stuff moments before we actually need them. It can be your keys, card, or presentation for your next meeting. The point here is you should back up all necessary data. Flash drives might break, Google Drive and other forms of storage may not work properly at the time you need them. The next thing you know, your life is in shambles.

Another thing to worry about is security and privacy. This season is also the time when people’s secrets tend to get exposed, such as your affair with your best friend’s boyfriend or your intimate videos getting leaked into the deepest, darkest corner of the internet. Keep your reputation from being smeared!

Double-check what you type and say

Be careful with miscommunication, my dear. It’s normal to feel there’s chaos in your head since Mercury in retrograde disrupts our thought processes. We become forgetful and more prone to mistakes, so double check your typos before hitting send. In addition, think twice before voicing out your opinions and emotions. Take a deep breath, and think before you click. Your words are powerful. Once you’ve hurt someone with it, you can be forgiven but they’ll never forget.

P.S. Be mindful of what you post or tweet if you don’t want to get dragged on social media.

 

Keep your emotions in check and block your exes

If you haven’t blocked your exes until today, you need to re-evaluate your life, Susan. During this season, we barely use our logic and just follow our emotions. There might come a time when you want to send a seven-paragraph message to your ex, please don’t. You owe it to yourself to move on from the past and stop them from coming back into your life.

Oh, one more thing: Stay open to possible opportunities. Sure, Mercury in retrograde brings our past lovers back from hell, but they also bring in colleagues we’ve worked with. Most of the time, they want to work with us again. Additionally, this is a good time to reconnect with old friends. Seriously, this period isn’t that bad.

Be extremely flexible (not just in yoga but also in life)

If there’s one thing you can learn from this, it’s that life doesn’t always work out in our favor. It’s a reminder always to find a way. Be flexible and adaptable to every surprise that life brings. If we’re going to give in to our emotions, we already lost. Take a step back and reassess what’s happening, compose yourself and think of a solution. This is just another storm that’s passing by. You will overcome this.

Take a moment to slow down

Lastly, like any retrograde season, it’s a cue from the planets and the stars to slow down. We’re all rushing from one point to another, and we’re moving extremely fast. Planets spin backward to remind us that we need to look back and slow down to appreciate how far we’ve come, and what we’ve been doing with our lives, and catch up on what we missed. Above all, it’s a reminder to rest. You’re doing well, my friend. I’m proud of you.

Her GadgetMatch

Review: The Flyaway Attachment for the Dyson Supersonic

Is it time to upgrade?

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I’ve had my Dyson Supersonic since 2019 which means I’ve been using the same hairdryer for almost three years now. This is quite a feat for someone whose work also involves the intersection of the tech and beauty industries. This hairdryer has been a mainstay in my vanity and an essential part of wash days. As someone who has depended on the Dyson Supersonic since I got my unit in late 2018, I always kept an eye out for the new attachments they release. Their latest–the Flyaway Smoother–truly piqued my interest. 

I have curly hair, which I love but every now and then, I get the urge to style it straight. While it’s doable, getting a sleek, shiny look can be a challenge at times. You’ll get some flyaways here and there along with shorter ends from my layers sticking out. This attachment, however, has proven to be a true game-changer for me. 

The Flyaway Smoother

As the Supersonic’s first brush attachment, The Flyaway Smoother combines two modes, allowing me to style my hair from damp to polished in no time. The Smoothing mode effectively dries, aligns, and smooths the hair, while the Flyaway mode takes advantage of the Coanda effect (the same technology employed by the AirWrap’s curling barrels) to tuck in and hide flyaways, creating a shiny, flawless finish.

This technology replicates the techniques used by professionals in salons, giving users the ability to achieve salon-worthy results at home. It’s mostly done with two hands by salon professionals–one hand holding a hairdryer and the other, a brush.

What makes it so difficult to replicate at home, especially for long hair, is the angle and tension needed to really introduce volume. With bristles attached to the Flyaway Smoother, it’s now possible to do this with one hand and a powerful motor too. The ability to achieve a sleek, polished look without the fuss and frizz is remarkable.

Dyson digital V9 motor

One of the standout features of the Dyson Supersonic is its powerful Dyson digital V9 motor. It spins at a speed of up to 110,000rpm. This motor’s size also allows for optimum balance in the hand. This makes the dryer easy to handle during styling sessions.

Additionally, the intelligent heat control system ensures that the air temperature is regulated over 40 times a second. This prevents extreme heat damage and protecting the hair’s natural shine.

The Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer is designed for all hair types. It’s a versatile tool for anyone looking to style their hair with ease. With four heat settings, three airflow settings, and a cold shot function, users have complete control over the drying and styling process.

The additional magnetic attachments, including the Gentle Air attachment for fine hair and sensitive scalps, the Smoothing Nozzle for removing frizz, and the Styling Concentrator for precision styling, provide even more options to achieve various hairstyles effortlessly.

Time for an upgrade?

If you already own a Supersonic hairdryer, is now the time to upgrade? The Flyaway Smoother attachment comes bundled with new machines purchased from June 30, 2023, making it the perfect excuse to get one in a new colorway. However, it is also fully compatible with existing models of the Dyson Supersonic hair dryer, making it accessible to both new and existing users.

You don’t really have to buy a full set if your older one is still working fine. Mine, after four years of use, still works amazing. It will now be passed on to a family member who’s been good this year–so far. If yours is starting to show signs of wear, then this might be a good time to get an upgrade. The new colorways are divine with my favorite–Bright Nickel and Copper–and Prussian Blue can definitely make any dresser or bathroom look more luxe. My older set will find its way to our guest bathroom soon but I’ll definitely retain my diffuser attachment. 

The newer set comes with four attachments: the Flyaway Smoother, the Smoothing Nozzle, the Styling Concentrator, and the Gentle Air Attachment. If you have curly hair, know that the current set does not come with a diffuser, but the one that came with the older model will work with the new Dyson Supersonic just fine. 

Should you get the Flyaway Smoother attachment?

The Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer with the Flyaway Smoother attachment is a fantastic addition to any hair care routine, especially for those with curly hair like myself who wish to go for straight styles without losing the volume. It delivers fast, smooth, and salon-quality results from damp to polished hair, making it a true gamechanger in the world of hair styling.

With its powerful motor, intelligent heat control, and versatile attachments, it caters to all hair types and ensures that your hair remains protected while achieving the desired look.

If you’re looking for a high-performance hair dryer that delivers professional results at home, the Dyson Supersonic™ Hair Dryer with the Flyaway Smoother attachment is an excellent investment.

Pros:

– Flyaway Smoother attachment effectively tucks away flyaways and creates a polished, shiny finish.

– Powerful Dyson digital motor V9 and intelligent heat control protect hair from extreme heat damage.

– Versatile settings and attachments cater to all hair types and styling preferences.

– Available for direct purchase from the manufacturer, ensuring authenticity and quality.

Cons:

– The initial price of PHP31,500 may be a bit steep for some users. However, if you’re someone who regularly uses a hairdryer or is willing to commit to styling at home, you’ll get your money’s worth as the performance and results can justify the investment.


For more information or to experience the Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer with the Flyaway Smoother attachment, visit Dyson demo stores or the website

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Entertainment

Ready for National Pink Day? Barbie has a surprise for you

Barbie is in theaters July 19

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Barbie

If you’re like me who is super thrilled for the Philippine cinema premier of Barbie (and whose favorite color is pink!), Warner Bros. has an exciting surprise for us today, June 23.

In celebration with National Pink Day, Warner Bros. is unveiling “something pink” across various malls in Metro Manila — SM North EDSA, Trinoma, Robinsons Magnolia, SM Megamall, Uptown Mall, and SM Mall of Asia. All Barbie fans are invited! The unboxing event is free and open to the public.

Your favorite cosplayers will be there to take photos with the “pink surprise”, and of course, with their fans. What’s more, the first 50 lucky guests to take a photo will be given Krispy Kreme donuts as bonus treat, so make sure to get there as early as you can!

Barbie is directed by Oscar-nominated writer/director Greta Gerwig, starring Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling. Distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Discovery company, Barbie is (finally) showing on cinemas this July 19.

Let us know your thoughts about the upcoming film by using the official hashtags: #Barbie #BarbieTheMovie

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Her GadgetMatch

Empowering and inspiring the future of women in tech

Let’s get to know Elen Tady of HP Philippines

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In the world of technology, where innovation and creativity collide, we often hear stories of remarkable individuals who break barriers and shatter glass ceilings. Maria Elenita Tady, affectionately known as Elen by her friends, stands proudly as a shining example for women in tech.

A strong woman who has not only thrived in the tech industry but has also dedicated herself to empowering others. As a Partner Business Manager for Hewlett Packard (HP) Philippines and the chair of Women’s Impact Network PH, Elen embodies the spirit of resilience, growth, and mentorship.

Maria Elenita “Elen” Tady, Partner Business Manager for HP Philippines and chair of Women’s Impact Network PH.

Elen’s story is one of passion and determination. While studying computer science at her university, she knew which company she wanted to join eventually. She joined HP first as an intern, later becoming a full-time employee. Now a Partner Business Manager, she exudes confidence and takes immense pride in her work.

Her constant smile and happy demeanor reflect the joy she finds in her professional journey. This is particularly true when talking about the vibrant community they have fostered at the company. Elen’s infectious enthusiasm inspires those around her and creates an environment where everyone feels valued and motivated to achieve their best.

Elen with HP country managing director, Ian Reyes (middle), and leads from the Commercial and Retail Channel, Market Development, Print Category, and Enterprise Account teams during the HP Reach in Cebu last year (October 2022).

A supportive environment for women in tech

While the tech industry has historically been male-dominated, Elen shares a different narrative. At HP, she has found an empowering and inclusive environment that values diversity and fosters growth for all its employees. Her constant happiness and positive outlook are a testament to the supportive culture within the company. She has never felt discriminated against for being a female. On the contrary, she feels empowered by HP’s commitment to providing equal opportunities and a platform for women to thrive. The strong community and camaraderie at the company have been instrumental in shaping her journey, enabling her to reach new heights and inspire others along the way.

Throughout her career, Elen has been fortunate to have female mentors who played a pivotal role in her success. These trailblazers have not only shared their wisdom and expertise. They also instilled in her the confidence to take pride in her work and embrace challenges with a smile.

Elen at the recently concluded HP Amplified Product Solutions and Showcase (March 2023).

“Lady managers have really opened the door for me,” Elen shared. “The one-on-one coaching that you usually get, the small talks that you have with them have all been so helpful. It’s good to work with females, right?”

Their guidance, combined with Elen’s indomitable spirit, has strengthened her belief in the power of female camaraderie and mentorship. As the Chairwoman of Women’s Impact Network PH, Elen is passionate about creating a space where women can connect, learn, and empower each other. A space for continuing the legacy of support and mentorship that has shaped her own journey.

GadgetMatch - HP - Elen Tady - Women in Tech Feature

Members of the Women’s Impact Network PH gather for an engaging and informative women’s month celebration at the HP office. The one standing is WIN PH co-chair Anabel Gan. Talking on-screen is HP Philippines’ country HR, Rena Marin (March 2023).

“Women’s Impact Network is not just for women – we have male allies in the group as well,” Elen said. “One of the projects we worked on is to have a series of trainings for women to encourage them to take on leadership roles.” It’s an important move that supports the company’s feminist ideals. At HP Philippines, women make up more than half of the local team. In the last year, the list of the company’s new hires was also dominated by women – an impressive 66%.

Celebrating women all-year-round

Writing about women in tech and highlighting their accomplishments should not be limited to a month designated for the fairer sex. Elen’s story serves as a reminder that these narratives deserve recognition and celebration throughout the year. Women like Elen are making significant contributions to the tech industry every day. Their stories deserve to be shared and celebrated. By highlighting their achievements and experiences, we promote diversity, encourage inclusivity, and inspire future generations to pursue their passions without limitations.

GadgetMatch - HP - Elen Tady - Women in Tech Feature -Elen Tady in one of her trips abroad (1)

Apart from work, Elen also loves to travel.This is her in one of her trips to Osaka, Japan.

Elen’s passion for empowering women in the tech industry extends beyond her role at HP. She firmly believes that fostering diversity and gender equality is crucial for creating a future where women can thrive in any field they choose. She serves as an inspiration to aspiring women in tech, encouraging them to pursue their dreams fearlessly. By shining a spotlight on women like Elen, we ensure that their achievements and stories are not only celebrated but also serve as a catalyst for change and progress. Through her dedication and advocacy, Elen is shaping a future where women in tech can break barriers, seize opportunities, and create their own success stories.

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