online shopping Archives | Page 10 of 13

In The Near Future, MasterCard Will Authorize Payments Via Selfie

Imagine if you can pay an online shop as quick as a taking a Selfie, how easy would that be?

Most of us are aware of how lengthy it really is to send money or pay your purchases online. Aside from remembering your passwords, you will be tasked to verify it with a code or PIN sent via SMS or via a security token (know more about the security token, here). These steps of authorization are called two-factor authentication as it involves “what you know” (e.g., 6-digit password) and “something you have” (e.g., verification code).

But as our technology progresses, companies have pushed ways to improve our lives by making things quicker and more efficient. This is why MasterCard is testing out a new way of payment authorization that utilizes fingerprint scanning and facial recognition.

Biometrics, measurement and analysis of unique physical characteristics, is the underlying tech that enables this type of authorization to work. I bet our ancestors would not think that this would soon be possible! MasterCard is now closely working with Google, Microsoft, Apple, Samsung, and BlackBerry to introduce this project.

As passwords are likely to experience breaching, your fingerprints and facial features are less susceptible. You may be aware that swift touch of a fingerprint scanner is something Samsung and Apple have already implemented. On the other hand, facial recognition is made through taking a Selfie. I for one thought that one can cheat the system by using a photograph, but the system do not work that way. MasterCard holders are required to blink to indicate that they are live human beings.

Fast forward to that day, are you going welcome this new payment method with open arms?

Even an innovative step as astounding as this cannot please everyone, especially the generations prior to the Millennials (Generation Y). One thing is for sure though, if this method is successful, companies may work on other possible authorization methods such as voice recognition or heartbeat pattern checking.

Are you ready for that?

Image Credits: Robert Scoble via Flickr with Creative Commons License

Sources: 1 & 2

5 Ways To Take Charge And Save Money On Technology

Living in the 21st century where technology is a quintessential part of our lives, it is hard to find someone without a mobile phone. There is no doubt in my mind that technology improved our lives, making it easier and faster to communicate, shop, develop, search, and so much more.

Even though it is dependable, technology can cost a lot! Your wallet can empty as quickly as your battery empties. Luckily for you, there are ways to avoid excessive spending on technology…

1. NEEDS BEFORE WANTS

Do you really need an expensive action camera just to take great selfies? Or how about a state-of-the-art computer set-up just to browse the Internet? There is no point on spending on the most expensive gadgets and accessories if you will not maximize its use. So, the first step you must take is to evaluate your needs and understand how the device works. During this process, you have to be honest with yourself.

2. SELL YOUR OLD DEVICES OR EQUIPMENTS

If there is a growing desire to upgrade to the latest technology then, try selling your devices or equipments. This will give you little to enough money to help purchase the new device you have been eyeing on. eBay, Gumtree, and Carousell are just some platforms where you can find some interested buyers.

Image Credits: epSos .de via Flickr with Creative Commons license

3. PURCHASE ONLINE

Aside from getting rid of your old devices or equipments online, you may also get a great deal there (i.e., whether it is through a wholesaler or an online coupon). You can compare the prices of the online shops to what is available on the physical shops, only to find that most of the times, online shops offer the cheaper prices. Furthermore, you just saved on the costs of transportation you would have paid if you went to the stores.

4. GET CREATIVE

Although the variety of the homemade accessories you can make are thin, it does not hurt to give it a chance. You are still saving money anyway. For instance, you may use a white top sheet as a diffuser, a white wall to bounce light from a flash, and a Styrofoam board as a reflector. All it takes is your imagination and creativity.

5. LOOK FOR ALTERNATIVES

Just because a renowned company announced a huge product launch does not mean that you have to buy it. If your technology basket is already sufficient then, there is no need to buy a new one. Also, if the new product does not satisfy your budget then, you do not have to buy it now. Pretty soon, the prices of this thing will drop, just be patient.

But, if you are really in need of a specific gadget immediately, say an action camera like GoPro (US$340/S$455), consider getting a cheaper alternative such as the HTC Re (US$159/S$213), the Polaroid XS100i HD (US$129/S$173), or the Sony HDR-AS20/B (US$149/S$199).

Sources: 1 & 2

Avoid Impulse Buys And Save More Money Shopping This GSS

We had all been victims of impulsive purchase/s. And, this Great Singapore Sale (GSS) period where most shops have over 70% off, your power to resist may be tested! The good news is that, you can strengthen your power by following this simple ways:

1. NOTE DOWN A LIST

The oldest trick in the bag can just be the one that saves you! Making a list of the necessary gifts you to buy along with the names of the people you are wishing to give it to can help you avoid the temptation of overwhelming discounts. If you want, you can also dictate a budget per person (e.g., S$10 for a co-worker). No matter what, stick to this list.

2. SCORE GOOD DEALS BY SHOPPING ONLINE

To prevent the enticing visual stimulations, you can skip the malls all together and just shop online. By shopping online, you can not only compare price but also avoid the long queue. Who likes squeezing their way to the crowds anyway?

To get you started with your GSS shopping, here are the premier Singapore online shops you can browse: Lazada, Qoo10, and Zalora. Use coupon codes if applicable.

3. DO YOUR RESEARCH

As the glistening crimson sign of “GSS SALE” is parading across the country, it is good to do your research first before heading to the malls. This research requires you to browse the promotions of various shops and malls before you leave the house.

To get a comprehensive list of what is on sale, you may check out the Great Singapore Sale website at Greatsingaporesale.com.sg or browse the array of deals at Moneydigest.sg/category/deals.

4. PAY CASH

Having to pay with the money you already have is a wise decision that is accepted by most. Unless your credit card is rewarding you extra for shopping this GSS, you must shy away from it. A wallet full of your intended spending will force you to stay within the budget and prevent unnecessary buys.

5. BE HONEST WITH YOURSELF

Before buying anything, ask yourself several questions to help you evaluate if an item is worthy or not. Ask question such as: “Does the item simplify my life?” , “Am I going to feel better months after I buy this?”, or “Do I really need this?”. Be honest as honest with yourself as possible.

6. KNOW YOUR TRIGGERS

You must understand what brings about or triggers your impulse purchases. For instance, if your trigger is fragrant scents scattered in the malls then, shop online instead.

Image Credits: Giuseppe Milo via Flickr

Also, it takes no Jedi mind trick to tell that shopping on an empty stomach will make you tempted for more snacks. So, be sure to shop on a satiated state during the Great Singapore Sale! 🙂

Best Shops For Wallet-Friendly Party Supplies In Singapore

Are you in need of party supplies to use for the Birthday or the Mother’s Day coming up? What if you are hosting a themed party at home? You will need a variety of dramatic, novelty, or scary decorations of course. Whether you are hosting a safari-themed Birthday or a floral Mother’s Day celebration, here are the Best Shops For Wallet-Friendly Party Supplies In Singapore…

1. DAISO

If all the party goods in a shop cost S$2, you may never want to leave. Daiso offers party decorations, toys for give away, and glowing materials. You may buy a banner that says: “Happy Birthday” or “Happy Mother’s Day” to decorate your feast wall. Daiso has 7 outlets nationwide including one in Vivocity, IMM Building, and Plaza Singapura.

2. SPOTLIGHT

A popular crafts hub, Spotlight sells different kinds of inexpensive party decorations, table dressings, cake decorations, ribbons, toys, and candies. All the crafts materials that you will ever need could be found here.

Image Credits: spotlight.com.sg

Location: 68 Orchard Road, Plaza Singapura, Level 5

3. CAROUSELL

You would be surprise that Carousell, a mobile marketplace for bargain items, sells several party supplies too. My favorite item is the “Colourful Paper Straws For Party” priced at S$3/25 straws.

Image Credits: carousell.com/p/1450773/

4. THE PARTY STUFF

What I like about The Party Stuff is that they have party decorations for a wide selection of themes such as: Plaid Baby, Sports & Army Camouflage, Hawaii & Poker Night, Princess, and Superheroes. They offer party decorations, balloons, tableware, party favors, cake decorations, and costumes.

For S$5.95, you can buy the “Boom Wow Confetti Butterfly”: a handheld confetti cannon launching colorful Butterflies in the air. Also, take advantage of their Mother’s Day special 18″ balloons for S$7.90.

Locations: 4 outlets nationwide, visit here: thepartystuff.com.sg

5. MTRADE

MTRADE is an online novelty wholesale store in Singapore. This store has countless of goods to offer including Personalized Party Items, Party Favors, Party Accessories, Stationery Gifts, Inflatable Items, Games, Tableware, Cake Decoration, and Confetti. These are sold at very affordable prices of course! For example, 8 pieces of party hats costs about S$3.50-6.90 while a piece range costs about S$0.40-1.30. I recommend their Glow Stick Bracelets sold at S$4.50/45 pieces.

Image Credits: mtradenoveltystore.com

With its organized website at mtradenoveltystore.com, you can either shop by price or shop by category.

Surprisingly Affordable Yet Quality Japanese Brands In Singapore

Long before JPOP was mainstream, Japanese brands had been circulating the worldwide market. Valuing their historical significance, contemporary influence, and innovative style, Japan never seize to amaze its consumers. On that note, here are 4 Surprisingly Affordable Yet Quality Japanese Brands Available In Singapore…

1. MUJI

I am in love with MUJI’s products not only because of its simplicity but also because of its efficacy. Most of their products are practical such as the “CT LINEN POLY SOFT BOX OBLONG S HALF“, a foldable fabric storage box for only S$13.

Curated by Ryohin Keikaku Co., Ltd., MUJI upholds the philosophy of bringing quality products at lower prices. This is because of their intensive selection for raw materials. A testament of that are their stationery items including office supplies, packaging items, acrylic storage, desktop items, and handphone accessories with prices ranging from S$0.90-S$49. Aside from this, they also sell tasty foods and skin care products, which Japan is truly known for.

Image Credits: Paul Davidson via Flickr

MUJI has 9 outlets islandwide, click here for more details.

2. TSUBAKI

Everyone knows that a woman’s crowning glory is her hair. A shiny, smooth, and beautiful hair is the definitive characteristics of a good hair care brand. TSUBAKI fuses its Japanese roots by adding the hair ingredient of ancient times – the Camellia oil. Although it was launched in 2006, TSUBAKI has been leading the hair care brand in Japan with over 270 million units of shipments worldwide. This is due to their affordability, quality, attractive packaging, and celebrity endorsers. As it is gracing Singapore, users can surely love the effect of lustrous and frizz-free hair with regular use. TSUBAKI is available at all Watsons outlet with prices as low as S$8.90 (e.g., TSUBAKI Shining Shampoo 220ml and TSUBAKI Damage Care Conditioner 220ml).

Image Credits: www.facebook.com/TsubakiSG

3. UNIQLO

A Japanese brand that is celebrated by international clientele, UNIQLO’s shops have always something for everyone. From plain T-shirts, patterned dresses, oxford shirts, winter jackets, and undergarments…UNIQLO pieces proves to be diverse. Aside from that they are known for quality products sold at a reasonable rate. Focusing on quality helps reduce waste. With prices as low as S$4.90, UNIQLO still offers worldwide sales. Fancy a Striped 3/4 Sleeve Dress?

Image Credits: www.uniqlo.com/sg/store/women-idlf-striped-34-sleeve-dress-1444030005.htm

It is available now for S$29.90 – save S$20! Or how about a classic long sleeves for men? It is available now for S$12.90 – save S$12!

UNIQLO has 22 outlets islandwide, click here for more details.

4. HADA LABO

Dreaming of a flawless and fair skin? Dream no more. Japan has brought its special formulation to Singapore with Hada Labo’s skin care line. Hada Labo embodies an uncomplicated approach to skin care products with its motto “Nothing More, Nothing Less” being present in their ingredients and product processing. This means that each product is formulated with the suitable ingredients to meet the needs of the consumers. For example, they use Retinol for the anti-aging products and Hyaluronic Acids for the hydrating products.

Their prices are as low as S$12.90 (Retinol Lifting + Firming Lotion) and as high as S$32.90 (Arbutin White Essence). Hada Labo is available at all Watsons outlets. Here is a short clip of a Japanese skin care regimen incorporating Hada Labo’s products:

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