Epic camera, processor among the top features Filipinos love about the new Samsung Galaxy S23 Series

Monday, March 13, 2023

Local survey reveals favorite features among Filipinos who ordered Samsung’s latest flagship line-up




Samsung recently launched its epic Galaxy S23 series. It has undoubtedly created a buzz among Filipinos eager to trade up for a truly premium mobile phone experience. With orders streaming in, a local survey[1] shared exactly what made them want to get their hands on a Samsung Galaxy S23, stat!


Nightography and a 200MP Camera sensor



With the Philippines being the world's selfie capital, is anyone surprised that the epic camera was the top reason why Filipinos pre-ordered the Samsung Galaxy S23 Series?


Shooting in low light can be challenging for even the most advanced filmmakers, resulting in shaky, unusable footage with lots of noise. The Galaxy S23 Series’ Nightography feature lets you shoot at any light through its multi-frame processing. This dedicated algorithm combines multiple images across frames to reduce noise, enabling anyone to take vivid and optimized videos, even in the dark. Additionally, an enhanced AI object-aware engine and stereo depth map allow the camera to capture clear portraits in detail, making night photos come to life


Aside from the 200MP adaptive pixel sensor on the Galaxy S23 Ultra, the Galaxy S23 Series comes equipped with a 10MP Telephoto Camera and the 12MP Ultra-Wide Camera. So every shot comes out picture-perfect. The S23 and S23+ are equipped with 50MP Wide Cameras, while the S23 Ultra offers a 200MP ultra-high resolution. The wide camera lets you capture sharp lines and vivid colors, even when tightly zooming in. Not to be forgotten, the Galaxy S23 Series boasts upgrades for selfies, with an improved 12MP front camera for all three models.


Cinematic Videos






Being able to take cinematic quality videos was another factor that excited Filipinos about the Galaxy S23 series. Recording videos with pro-quality is made possible with the enhanced 8K video at 30 frames per second. Users can combine this with the new 360 Audio Recording feature on Galaxy Buds2 Pro, creating multi-dimensional sound for an even more enhanced video experience.


The latest Snapdragon Processor


For creators and gamers alike, the desire to push limits and constantly reimagine what’s possible requires the latest technology. That’s why it’s no surprise that the Galaxy S23 series brand-new Snapdragon® 8 Gen 2 Mobile Platform – was a key feature that pushed many Filipinos to pre-order.


When a player is in the middle of the game, even a slight delay can cause critical issues. For instance, racing games require fast-loading screens, so any distraction can get even the most experienced players off track. However, a racing game on Galaxy S23 Ultra provides not only full immersion but also no disruptions. With a display that supports super smooth 120Hz refresh rate, coupled with Qualcomm's Snapdragon® 8 Gen 2 Mobile Platform for Galaxy, gamers can expect smoother graphics, faster response speeds and a seamless gaming experience.

Powerful Batteries for Streaming and Gaming






There’s nothing worse than having to stop in the middle of a video or a game because one’s battery is running low. The more powerful battery life of the Galaxy S23 Series was definite plus for Filipinos as it makes gaming and movie marathons on one’s phones easier than ever. One can enjoy long-lasting battery life with a battery capacity of 3,900mAh and 4,700mAh on the Galaxy S23 and S23+ respectively, increased by 200mAh each from the previous generation while the Ultra clocks out at a whopping 5,000mAh.


Other features that make the Galaxy S23 the right choice for Filipinos? The Galaxy S23 Series was also designed with the planet in mind as it was made with more recycled materials than ever, furthering Samsung’s inspiring vision for sustainability. The latest Galaxy S23 Series is made from recycled aluminum, glass, PET, and repurposed ocean-bound plastic. Moreover, with a 100% recycled paper package box and paper-based materials used for front and back protectors, the Galaxy S23 series is eco-conscious from the inside out. The total number of parts using recycled materials in the lineup increased to 12.

The Galaxy S23 Series comes in four nature-inspired matte hues: Phantom Black, Cream, Green and Lavender and are now available at Samsung Experience Stores, Authorized Samsung Stores, Lazada, Shopee, Abenson.com and MemoXpress Online. The Galaxy S23 retails for PHP 53,990 for the 128GB variant, and PHP 57,990 for the 256GB variant. Meanwhile, the Galaxy S23+ starts at PHP 68,990 for 256GB variant, and PHP 76,990 for the 512GB variant. Lastly, the Galaxy S23 Ultra is available at PHP 81,990 and PHP 89,990 for the 256GB and 512GB variants respectively. A samsung.com-exclusive 1TB Galaxy S23 Ultra is also available at PHP 103,990.




[1] Source: S23 Insights from Consumer Study (IFC) is Samsung’s initiative to ‘listen’ and keep a pulse on consumer needs in partnership with Toluna. The results are based on an online consumer panel survey and promoter-administered online consumer survey via store intercept. It aims to assess consumer’s reaction to the new Galaxy S23 and uncover improvement areas during the pre-order/early launch phase.
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HONOR X8a with 100MP Ultra-Clear Camera to arrive in PH on March 14

Thursday, March 9, 2023

A brand new HONOR smartphone is set to arrive on March 14, 2023 with a DSLR-like camera and a stunning edgeless display.


A new member of HONOR’s X Series line-up, the HONOR X8a is a new reliable all-round device available to consumers for a very affordable price that will be unveiled on March 14, 2023. Delivering eXtra upgrades in design, display and photography capabilities, this smartphone is set to meet users’ demand for style and quality.



“As promised to our HONOR fans, we will continuously give the smartest and most affordable solutions to our consumers’ needs. With the new HONOR X8a, users can take more breath-taking photos in high quality with its 100MP Ultra-Clear Camera and enjoy a premium edgeless display,” teased by HONOR Philippines Vice President for Marketing, Stephen Cheng.

Available in three elegant colors; Midnight Black, Titanium Silver, and Cyan Lake, the HONOR X8a will help any users stand out from the crowd. The HONOR X8a boasts a rear 100MP triple camera system, the highest megapixel counts ever on the X Series, to deliver an exceptional photography experience. Paired with the Super Resolution AI technology, the HONOR X8a also enables users to take stunning, high-definition photos with greater ease and convenience than ever before.

To create a stylish look and feel, the HONOR X8a features a flat-edge design with smooth rounded corners. The sharp, clean lines not only add a touch of attitude to the design, but also give the device a comfortable and secure grip, demonstrating a subtle balance between form and function.

HONOR X8a will be officially launched on March 14, 2023 and will be streamed live on Facebook: https://fb.me/e/unwZiJ2N. For more information and announcements, you may visit HONOR’s website www.hihonor.com or social media platforms: Facebook (Facebook.com/HonorPhilippines), Instagram (Instagram.com/honorphilippines/) and TikTok: (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines).
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Krispy Kreme Surprises their Guests with Dozens of Free Doughnuts!

With Krispy Kreme, you’re about to spot your happiest year as they unveil their newest campaign - Spot Happy. In celebration of this campaign, Krispy Kreme is giving away dozens of free doughnuts to customers and with more surprises coming out within March!




Throughout the years, the Home of the Original Glazed® Doughnuts has been sharing smiles with their guests, or as they fondly call it, their Originals, through their doughnuts and beverages. This is definitely what the Spot Happy campaign is all about, it aims to bring happiness to your day through your favorite sweet treats from none other than Krispy Kreme, and sharing this joy with those around you.


The brand’s challenge for their Originals is to spot happy moments in their day and magnify their happiness using the world-famous Original Glazed® Doughnut as their lens. Krispy Kreme unveiled its Spot Happy video, https://fb.watch/j1Ip_pW1ar/, where they showed how to brighten up the day with a dozen of delightful doughnuts. This ray of sunshine in someone’s day is something that anyone might need in this fast-moving world, and Krispy Kreme knows that a bite of their doughnut or a sip of their beverage might be the answer. The video shows relatable everyday moments made more enjoyable and happier with your dose of their world-famous, melt-in-your-mouth, Original Glazed® Doughnuts.


To show exactly what they’re talking about, Krispy Kreme stores will definitely be your happy spot as they are surprising everyone with Spot Happy Moments! Every day per store, FREE one (1) dozen Original Glazed® doughnuts is given to guests who qualify in their secret Spot Happy mechanics. Since March 1, 2023, Krispy Kreme has treated their first guest who bought a dozen Original Glazed® in the store, the first guest who said “thank you” to the cashier after purchase, and the first students wearing their IDs who visited their stores. Following the idea of Spot Happy, they are gifting their guests for their little acts of kindness, just being in the moment or at a time they are least expecting a surprise. Spot Happy Moments will run until March 14, 2023 in select stores nationwide, https://bit.ly/SpotHappyMoments, so you might be in for a sweet surprise!


Spotting happiness is made easier too as the American-doughnut brand also launched its newest TikTok filter. Take a video of what makes you happy, flip your camera for a selfie, show the ‘Okay’ 👌 sign, and the OG filter is revealed. The filter is a way to show that happiness is contagious and to champion that everyday happenings can also make you smile. So go and spot happiness using this awesome TikTok filter!




What are you waiting for? Visit any Krispy Kreme stores nationwide to Spot Happy or have your Krispy Kreme favorites delivered to your doorstep by calling 888-79000 or ordering online through now.krispykreme.com.ph, GrabFood, Foodpanda, Pick.a.Roo, Mangan, OrderMo, and Groover.



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The Queen of Century is Back and is Sexier Than Ever

Monday, March 6, 2023

She may have taken home the crown a few years back but Pia Wurtzbach has proven that she is still our Queen looking sexier than ever as she joins again Century Tuna, the leading canned tuna brand in the Philippines, and returns as the brand’s ambassador.




Her secret? It’s surprisingly simple because Pia believes that healthy eating doesn’t have to be complicated – and the key to her sexy fitness regimen is an active lifestyle and healthy eating with Century Tuna.


“Even years after her reign, Pia continues to be an inspiration to many and that is why we couldn’t be happier to have her back as part of the Century Tuna family to help us share with Filipinos that eating healthy can be easy and simple with Century Tuna,” said Century Pacific Food Inc. (CPFI) VP and GM for Tuna Division Carlo Endaya.

Pia on her secret to looking and feeling good


“Century Tuna has been a staple in my kitchen even before my first endorsement with the brand back in 2017, which is why I’m very excited to be part of the family again. What I love the most about Century Tuna is the many ways you can enjoy it – be it as a full meal or even just for a quick snack, you’re guaranteed a delicious and filling meal. Pair that with a good morning run and you’re sure to feel good and beautiful, with a healthy heart” shared Pia Wurtzbach.


Having a healthier 2023 is one of Pia’s biggest resolutions for the new year, especially with her much-awaited wedding happening soon!

Bring in the delicious, the healthy way


Regarding healthy eating, the choice is easy for Pia – Century Tuna, a classic all-time healthy meat option that makes eating well a snap!




Century Tuna combines the best of both worlds – a healthy indulgence that’s easy to prepare and goes well with various dishes. Tuna is a good source of protein and Omega 3 DHA, which comes with many health benefits like better heart health and lower blood pressure. Century Tuna is also low in cholesterol and has no preservatives.


And the best part – tuna is a versatile protein that’s super easy to mix and match. Tuna for brekkie? A scrambled egg with tuna and toast makes for a tasty start to your day.


Netflix and chilling and need a snack? Prep a healthy snack with Century Tuna spread on crackers or on bread.


Achieving healthy eating is now easy with Century Tuna! For more easy ways to eat healthily, check out these healthy tuna recipes at https://www.centurytuna.ph/recipes/ or visit /CenturyTuna on Facebook or @centurytunasuperbods on Instagram for more updates. #QueenPiaForCenturyTuna





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The Body Shop's Himalayan Charcoal Line

Charcoal is famously known as a detoxifying superfood, and skin care ingredient, because of its absorption qualities. This means that when you apply it to your skin, the charcoal attracts any excess oil, dirt, and impurities, leaving your skin feeling cleansed and purified when you wash the charcoal away.




The Body Shop’s Himalayan Charcoal line is made from bamboo which is the fastest-growing woody plant in the world, making it an environmentally- friendly resource.

What does it to your skin?

Re-texturizing 

With regular use it works by gently exfoliating the top outer skin, leaving the skin feeling smoother and softer.

Clarifying

Helps to refine pores over time, leaving the complexion looking clarified and improving the skin’s luminosity.

Organic Acids

Derived from hibiscus flowers and famous for their skin-exfoliating powers, these acids lead to a smoother-looking skin surface and a brighter-looking complexion.

It is sourced from charcoal powder from the Himalayan foothills of India, known to have purifying properties, brilliant for oily skin. It also has hibiscus flower extract that contains organic acids, known to have exfoliating properties. Salicylic acid is known to penetrate into the pores of the skin to help remove dead skin that has built up on the surface. It also has alpine willow herb known to help soothe the skin and control sebum production.


The Body Shop’s Himalayan Charcoal Line is available at The Body Shop stores and on its online store www.thebodyshop.com.ph.
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Jollibee “Share the Joy” with its anniversary music video featuring Gary V and Julie Anne San Jose

For over four decades, Jollibee has been spreading joy across the world with its best-tasting food. From celebrating one’s first birthday party, to simple bonding moments with friends, or enjoying family gatherings with all-time favorites like the Chickenjoy, Jolly Spaghetti, and Yumburger – Jollibee has always played a part in those memorable experiences.




On its 45th year, Jollibee invites everyone to continue to “Share the Joy” with a new anthem and music video featuring top celebrities Mr. Pure Energy Gary Valenciano and Asia’s Limitless Star Julie Anne San Jose.



You can watch the music video here: https://youtu.be/HPiop-4FMH0



“Jollibee has always been close to my heart even when I was just starting my career and being able to celebrate its 45th anniversary is truly an honor,” said Valenciano, who was Jollibee’s first celebrity endorser back in 1985. “I also feel blessed to work with talented people in this project, including the wonderful Julie Anne San Jose. I’m very excited for people to hear the song and watch the video, and I hope they feel that deep sense of joy and will be inspired to continue to share that same joy with others.”




San Jose is likewise excited for people to be LSS-ed with the fun anthem. “Batang Jollibee ako and it brings me so much joy to be able to sing its 45th anniversary anthem. This is my first project with Jollibee and sharing the spotlight with a legendary performer like Gary V. was such a great experience,” she said. “We’re very delighted to show this amazing project and celebrate sharing the joy to Jollibee fans across the world.”



The music video shows how Jollibee has played a role in creating many memorable and joyful moments for generations of Filipinos, not just here but abroad. Viewers can also take a trip down memory lane with snippets from past decades of shared joyful experiences at Jollibee. These are interspersed with the energetic performances of Gary V. and Julie Anne which further create that positive and happy vibe of the music video.



“For over 45 years, Jollibee has touched the hearts of so many people who love its best-tasting food, great service, and the brand of joy that only Jollibee can bring,” said Dorothy Dee-Ching, VP-Marketing Head of Jollibee.



“This anthem is a feel-good and heartwarming tribute to Jollibee’s strong legacy over the years. It shows Jollibee’s commitment to keep sharing the joy, and we hope it also inspires our customers to do the same. Kaya tara, let’s continue to share the joy!” she added.




Join the celebration of this special 45th year milestone by watching the video on Jollibee’s official Facebook page and YouTube channel, and do stay tuned for news and announcements of special promos and activities lined-up for the year as Jollibee continues to #ShareTheJoy!
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Allianz announces record-breaking €152.7 billion total revenues for 2022 in financial results report

Wednesday, March 1, 2023

Allianz Financial Results


Global insurance leader Allianz recently released its full-year financial results for 2022, announcing a record-breaking €152.7 billion (₱8.92 trillion) in total revenues. This marks a growth of 2.8%, coming from €148.5 billion (₱8.67 trillion) in 2021.

“Our performance is the product of thoughtful design, reliable execution, relentless simplification, and disciplined capital management,” said Oliver Bäte, CEO of Allianz SE. “In an unpredictable world with growing risks and societal imbalances, we are proudly demonstrating our ability to leverage the benefits of Allianz’s scale for our customers, our employees, and our shareholders.”

The insurance giant further noted a total growth of 5.7% in operating profit, from €13.4 billion (₱782.5 billion) in 2021 to €14.2 billion (₱829.2 billion) in 2022, driven by excellent performance in Property and Casualty and Life and Health. Allianz made a strong €6.2 billion (₱362.1 billion) and €5.3 billion (₱309.5 billion) in operating profits for both business segments respectively.

“The numbers are outcomes of what we do with our clients, and last year was the year when we had the highest number of customer satisfaction ever,” Bäte added. “People are looking for institutions they can trust, and Allianz is booming. With our record results, Allianz has consolidated its position as one of the world’s largest, most resilient, and trusted global financial institutions.”

Allianz similarly saw a remarkable 17% increase in total operating profit in Asia, amounting to €674 million (₱39.4 billion). Life and Health operating profit soared 20% higher to €532 million (₱31.1 billion), while Property and Casualty rose by 8%, or €141 million (₱8.2 billion).

“Asia as a region has always been synonymous with boundless promise, potential, and opportunity,” said Anusha Thavarajah, Regional CEO of Allianz Asia Pacific. “Our strategy to focus on distribution and customers through delivering the best in digital, products, and services has resulted in a strong and resilient performance amid difficult market conditions.”

Allianz Asia Pacific’s achievements were underpinned by its strategy to focus on strengthening its distribution capabilities and leveraging the strength of the Allianz brand to build unrivaled propositions. The integration of sustainability enhances the value proposition for its customers and ensures that it consistently meets their needs in the evolving landscape of the insurance business.

“These results would not have been possible without the dedication, talent, and commitment of our employees,” said Thavarajah. “As we look to the year ahead, we will continue to place our focus on our customers and our people to strengthen our presence as a leading player in all our markets across Asia.”

The Allianz brand also continues to see strength in growth and market presence in the Philippines. Allianz PNB Life was ranked 3rd in terms of Gross Written Premium, or the total premium income earned, and New Business Annualized Premium Equivalent (NBAPE), or new sales attained within a specific period, in the Philippine Insurance Commission’s Quarter 3 performance report for 2022. As of December 2022, Allianz PNB Life achieved an 18% increase in NBAPE, or ₱3.7 billion.

“Our successes are the result of a joint effort of the people at Allianz,” said Allianz PNB Life President and CEO, Alexander Grenz. “Because of their hard work, resilience, and dedication to excellence, Allianz PNB Life is able to stay true to its purpose of securing the future of Filipinos, as well as bring sustainable solutions to our customers and giving them confidence to face tomorrow’s challenges.”

Since 2019, Allianz has been recognized as the number one insurance brand in the world. As a leading insurance provider, Allianz PNB Life’s products and services are designed to meet the lifetime financial planning, wealth accumulation, and well-being aspirations of Filipinos. For more information, please visit www.allianzpnblife.ph
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HONOR’s upcoming Magic5 Pro AI Captures Record-Breaking Moment in Guinness World of Records

Monday, February 27, 2023



HONOR unleashes again its power of magic with its latest flagship phone’s AI camera capabilities







HONOR has partnered with Guinness World Record to showcase and preview the brand-new camera of the HONOR Magic5 Pro, which will be launched at MWC 2023 on the 27th of February, with a basketball player, who’s attempted to break a world record.


One is taken by the AI camera of HONOR Magic5 Pro, showing the best moment of sport movement, and the other photo is the behind the scene, to show how HONOR Magic5 Pro captured the best moment.




The official global launch of the HONOR Magic5 Pro will be at MWC 2023 on February 27th, 8:30pm (Philippine time). Watch the live launch here:https://goo.su/n8r
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New PLDT Home Fiber Plans now with 2x more speeds at the same price


What would you do if you have more speed to power your digital lifestyle? What if you could have the opportunity to experience up to twice the speed you’re getting now? That can be a reality now as PLDT Home rolls out the biggest speed upgrade with the newest Fiber Plans this February.



Faster Fiber Plans Yet


The new PLDT Home Fiber Unli Plans are double the previous speed offers and can now reach up to 600 Mbps for as low as P2699 monthly.



What’s more, all these new Home Fiber plans get faster speeds with the same price as previous plans. Now, that’s a treat especially for the new subscribers. Meanwhile, existing subscribers will need not apply for any plan upgrade to get the same faster speeds as they will automatically get the new Fiber plan speeds starting this month.


Fiber Unli Plan

Previous speed

New speed

Plan 1699

100 Mbps

200 Mbps

Plan 2099

200 Mbps

400 Mbps

Plan 2699

400 Mbps

600 Mbps



What does it mean for PLDT Home Fiber customers?


Families at home with dynamic digital lifestyles will highly benefit from the faster internet speeds of the new PLDT Home Fiber plans:


● For those who like to surf the Internet: Fiber Unli Plan 1699, 2099, and 2699 with the new speeds of 200, 400, and 600 Mbps respectively, allow users to load websites and pages within seconds, making browsing an even more enjoyable experience.

● For those who love to stream their movies and TV series: Fiber Unli Plan 1699 with 200 Mbps makes streaming SD and HD content on a few devices smooth and seamless. Fiber Unli Plan 2099’s 400 Mbps allows smooth streaming of HD and Ultra HD content on more demanding devices like smart TVs and PCs. The full power of Fiber Unli Plan 2699’s 600 Mbps speed makes streaming up to 4K HD and even 8K on the latest smart TVs easier than ever.

● For those who need to work online: The 200 Mbps from Fiber Unli Plan 1699 makes video conferencing easier with none of the dreaded lagging and dropping out, and users can also download all the files they need in minutes or even seconds. Fiber Unli Plan 2099’s 400 Mbps is there for bigger download demands, and for those who need to work with the largest files all the time, Fiber Unli Plan 2699 is the ideal setup.

● For those who demand better gaming support: Fiber Unli Plan 1699’s 200 Mbps will give a lag-free gaming experience on one or two devices such as a PC and/or gaming console. For more devices at home, 400 Mbps from Fiber Unli Plan 2099 will maintain that low latency. For those with the biggest gaming setups at home with multiple devices, Fiber Unli Plan 2699’s 600 Mbps will easily power it all.

● For those into content creation: Fiber Unli Plan 1699 allows for quick and easy content uploading to platforms like Facebook, YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, and more. For streamers on platforms like Twitch, Fiber Unli Plan 2099 and 2699 ensure a consistent livestreaming experience at all times.


Whole-home coverage with Fiber Plus Plans





On top of the improved Fiber Unli Plans, PLDT Home has also upgraded its Fiber Plus Plans, which come with three Mesh WiFi devices to eliminate wi-fi dead spots in larger homes.

Fiber Plus Plan

Previous speed

New speed

Plan 2399

200 Mbps

400 Mbps

Plan 2999

400 Mbps

600 Mbps



Mesh WiFi creates a wider wi-fi coverage within the home, with devices only needing to connect to one network no matter where they are in the area.

The fastest fixed network in the Philippines


The launch of the new PLDT Home Fiber Plans plays a big role in PLDT Home’s status as the fastest broadband in the Philippines. PLDT Home has consistently received this recognition in global internet testing firm Ookla’s regular rankings.


Meanwhile, the Philippines has also steadily climbed up the Speedtest Global Index over the past year, jumping two places higher in the January 2023 edition with a median download speed of 88.13 Mbps. This rise is due in part to PLDT Home’s contributions to the constant improvement of the country’s network infrastructure.


Experience the possibilities of even faster fiber internet with PLDT Home’s upgraded Fiber Plans. Visit this link today to find out more.
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COS and Linda Farrow launch debut eyewear collaboration

COS celebrates the launch of sunglasses for the first time in Philippines through a pioneering collaboration with eyewear designer LINDA FARROW – offering a collection that delivers an iconic array of styles for now and forever.




Established in 1970, LINDA FARROW eyewear rose quickly to acclaim. A pioneer in showcasing glasses as true fashion accessories, Linda Farrow redefined eyewear, tirelessly experimenting with new shapes and styles that later became classic designs. Co-creating an iconic new range for the modern woman, LINDA FARROW’s renowned expertise as an iconic maker is translated through the lens of COS.


The nine-piece collection is a harmonious expression of craftsmanship, representing an understated approach to luxury. Paying close attention to detail, the collection contains five iconic styles, from aviator to wayfarer which elevate the everyday. Featuring cut-outs, gold accents, and a spin on contemporary colour ranges, unwavering quality sits at the forefront of design while all lenses provide 100% UV protection.




The collection is available globally on cos.com and in the COS Store at SM Aura for a limited time only.




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