It’s a busy week for TV fans, with new seasons of some popular shows premiering on the world’s best streaming services. From addictive period romance and staggering Monsterverse action, to a hit political thriller and long-dormant medical comedy, there’s something for nearly every taste.

As for new movies, there’s an action-adventure swashbuckler that ticks every Friday night box, including iconic stars, non-stop explosive pacing, and plenty of high-stakes thrills. Get ready to bid farewell to February with our pick of the week’s best new releases. – Amelia Schwanke, senior entertainment editor

Bridgerton season 4 part 2 (Netflix)

Bridgerton Season 4 | Part 2 Official Trailer | Netflix – YouTube

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FiiO’s product pipeline has been relentless. Over the past two years, the company has introduced a few dozen new models spanning portable DACs, Bluetooth amplifiers, IEMs, headphones, desktop gear, and now increasingly innovative home audio components. Some have been clear hits. Others have felt like experiments in a very crowded field. That is the reality when a brand moves this fast.

The $199 FiiO BTR17, launched in late 2024 as a portable Bluetooth DAC and headphone amplifier, arrived during the early phase of this surge. At the time, it drew rave reviews and strong word of mouth. Now in 2026, it is no longer the newest device in the lineup, but it may be one of the most durable and worthwhile.

Behind the scenes, it is clear that FiiO has no intention of slowing down. What we have seen offline suggests that 2026 and 2027 will bring even more ambitious desktop and home audio components that push the brand further upmarket. Against that backdrop, the BTR17 stands out as one of the earlier releases from this cycle and possibly one of the most complete.

In a market overflowing with portable DAC and amplifier options between $99 and $299, the question is simple. Is the BTR17 still relevant in 2026, and was it quietly one of FiiO’s best moves during this recent run?

Specifications & Technology

Let’s start where it actually matters with the BTR17: the DAC and the amplification stage.

Digital to analogue conversion is handled by a pair of ESS Sabre ES9069Q chips. On paper, they are serious performers, rated at up to 130 dB dynamic range with THD plus noise hovering around -120 dB, all while keeping power consumption in check. These are not entry level DACs thrown in to hit a price point. They are modern, efficient, and more than capable of resolving fine detail without adding grit or glare of their own.

On the amplification side, FiiO opted for the THX AAA 78+ platform. The design uses eight op-amps in a parallel configuration and can deliver up to 650 mW from the balanced 4.4 mm output into 32 ohm headphones. There is an important caveat. That full output is only available in wired Desktop mode. In portable use, maximum output drops to 300 mW, which is still respectable but not the headline number.

Power delivery inside the BTR17 is not an afterthought. The internal supply is divided into three distinct stages to keep things stable and controlled:

• Stage 1: Filtering and overvoltage protection
• Stage 2: DC to DC boost conversion
• Stage 3: High precision LDO voltage stabilization

Critical sections such as the DAC chips and the amplifier each receive power from dedicated rails, a design choice intended to reduce interference and improve overall performance. Whether that translates into audible benefits is something we will dig into in the listening section.

A quick word on Desktop mode, because it is one of the BTR17’s more practical features. Flip the switch and connect power to the dedicated USB C “power in” port, and the unit runs from an external supply instead of its internal battery. That means you can use it at a desk all day without cycling the battery. For anyone planning to use this as a compact home DAC and amp, that is not a small detail.

There are two additional operating modes: BT and PHONE.

• BT mode is exactly what it sounds like. It is engaged when using the BTR17 wirelessly. The unit runs Bluetooth 5.4 via Qualcomm’s QCC5181 platform, with support for transmission rates up to 2100 kbps, along with LDAC and aptX Lossless. In practical terms, that puts it at the front of the pack for high resolution wireless audio support at this price.

• PHONE mode is more about power management. In this setting, the BTR17 shares the load with the connected source device rather than drawing heavily from it. The idea is to reduce battery drain on your phone or tablet during wired use. It is a thoughtful inclusion for anyone who has watched their phone battery nosedive during a long listening session.

Back to the hardware.

FiiO fitted the BTR17 with an XMOS XU316 USB processor, which is not bargain bin silicon. It offers low latency, stable data transmission, and support for 32-bit/768kHz PCM and native DSD512. Even with the built in parametric EQ engaged, it can handle up to 192 kHz. In short, there is more than enough headroom here for any real world use case.

Speaking of EQ, you get a full 10 band parametric setup to fine tune the sound. That means proper control over frequency, gain, and EQ, not just a handful of preset tone tweaks. Profiles can be saved, imported, exported, and shared through the FiiO Control app, so if you have a dialed in curve for a specific IEM or headphone, you can pass it along instead of trying to describe it over text like a lunatic.

The FiiO Control app also handles core settings and firmware updates. Most adjustments can be made directly on the device, but the app makes deeper configuration easier and keeps the unit current with software refinements.

As for battery life, FiiO rates the BTR17 at roughly eight hours using the 4.4 mm balanced output. In practice, that figure held up during continuous use with LDAC over Bluetooth. For a compact all in one DAC and amplifier at $199, that is a solid, realistic result rather than marketing fantasy.

Design & Build Quality

The centerpiece of the BTR17’s design is its display. The 1.3 inch IPS screen, with a 240 x 240 resolution, is bright enough for outdoor use and delivers surprisingly vibrant color for a device this small. Key information is always front and center, including volume level, active Bluetooth codec, and sampling rate. Each codec is color coded, which makes it easy to see at a glance what you are actually streaming.

FiiO makes a point of highlighting the tactile, stepped volume knob. In practice, it is serviceable but not exactly luxurious. The rotation feels a bit light, and the integrated push button comes across slightly hollow and sticky when pressed. It works, but I have handled more refined implementations on competing devices.

The back panel is wrapped in raw leather, which adds some welcome texture and grip. The main chassis is aluminum alloy, something that still is not guaranteed in the sub $200 category. The overall construction feels solid even if the control hardware is not class leading.

In the box, FiiO includes the usual documentation, a well made leatherette case, and an eight stranded USB C to C cable that looks and feels more premium than expected at this price.

Physically, the BTR17 measures 16.3 mm x 41.2 mm x 86.6 mm, which translates to roughly 0.64 x 1.62 x 3.41 inches. It weighs about 73.4 grams, or approximately 2.6 ounces. In daily use, it is compact and light enough to disappear into a pocket. Our review sample was black, but it is also available in a striking blue finish.

On the right side of the chassis you will find the physical controls. Just below the volume knob sits the power button. Beneath that are the forward and backward track buttons, which also double as EQ preset selectors. Further down are the switches for power mode selection and Desktop mode activation.

Along the bottom edge are two USB-C ports. One handles data transfer and charging, while the second is dedicated to external power input when using Desktop mode. Up top are the headphone outputs: a standard 3.5 mm single ended jack and a 4.4 mm balanced Pentaconn connection.

Listening & Headphone Synergy

With output figures that edge toward a full watt in Desktop mode, the BTR17 has more than enough muscle for the vast majority of full size over ear headphones. Even in portable mode, there is sufficient headroom for anyone who listens at spirited levels.

At that point, the conversation shifts. Raw power is only part of the equation. The real question is how clean, controlled, and refined that power sounds. Quality of amplification matters just as much as quantity, and in many cases more.

It is also worth saying that using a Bluetooth DAC and amplifier in general feels liberating. Being able to move around freely without being anchored to a desk changes the experience in a very real way. That freedom alone makes listening more enjoyable, and it gives the BTR17 an advantage that is not captured on a spec sheet.

The first thing I noticed after plugging the HiFiMAN HE1000 Unveiled into the BTR17 was a subtle but clear sense of added weight down low, even with no EQ engaged. I do not believe the unit is altering frequency response in any dramatic way, but there is a perceptible increase in bass impact and authority compared to some other solid state DAC and amp combinations.

On “Why So Serious?” by Hans Zimmer and James Newton Howard, the subterranean swell that creeps in around the three and a half minute mark had more physical presence and drive than I heard from the FiiO JM21 DAP I reviewed recently. The BTR17 gives that moment extra grunt, which makes the track feel more visceral without tipping into exaggeration.

That translates into a slightly warm overall character, but not one that sounds bloated or soft. The midrange remains articulate and clean, and there is a mild lift in the upper mids that enhances perceived detail. Dynamics are lively across the spectrum, with good separation and fine note clarity. Treble extension is intact with no obvious roll off, though it stops short of the most ethereal or shimmering presentation I have heard. Even so, the delicate triangle hits in L’Impératrice’s “La Lune” came through clearly and without any significant loss of detail.

I have often felt that the HE1000 Unveiled can use a touch more foundation in the bass. The BTR17 does not transform it into a reference caliber headphone in that range, but it does add just enough authority down low to counterbalance the headphone’s inherent treble energy. The pairing felt cohesive and well judged rather than artificially thickened.

I also tested the BTR17 with the Sendy Audio Egret, Beyerdynamic DT880 Edition 600 Ohm, and Audio Technica ATH-R70x. All were driven confidently and without drama. Even the 600 ohm Beyer was handled with composure, which says a lot about the available headroom in Desktop mode.

Listening was split between wired Desktop mode and wireless operation over LDAC from my phone. Despite the lower maximum output and reduced sampling rate in Bluetooth mode, I was genuinely hard pressed to identify meaningful sonic differences between the two in casual and focused listening. That should reassure anyone planning to use this primarily as a wireless solution.

That said, perspective matters. Moving over to a dedicated desktop chain like the SMSL DO400 paired with the Aune S17 Pro immediately delivered greater soundstage width, more defined layering, and a higher level of micro detail. The BTR17 gets impressively close for a compact all in one device, but a serious desktop stack still has the edge in outright scale and refinement.

The Bottom Line

The FiiO BTR17 gets the fundamentals right.

It delivers clean, controlled power with a slightly warm tilt that adds welcome body without sacrificing clarity. The dual ESS DAC implementation, THX AAA amplification, XMOS USB stage, and full 10 band parametric EQ are not filler features. They translate into real flexibility and performance that push this well beyond basic Bluetooth dongle territory. In Desktop mode, it has enough output to handle demanding full size headphones. In wireless mode over LDAC or aptX Lossless, it retains far more composure and resolution than most portable solutions in this price bracket.

What it does not do is replace a serious desktop stack. You will still get greater scale, layering, and ultimate refinement from a dedicated DAC and amplifier chain. The volume control hardware is also merely adequate rather than premium. If you are chasing the last word in micro detail or build finesse, this is not that device.

What makes the BTR17 compelling in 2026 is the combination of genuine audiophile architecture, robust codec support, proper EQ control, and real world usability in a device that fits in your pocket. It is as comfortable on a desk in Desktop mode as it is clipped to a jacket streaming from your phone.

Who should consider it? Anyone who wants near desktop performance without being chained to a desk and headphone enthusiasts with multiple pairs of headphones and IEMs to drive; and that includes commuters and business travellers who have not ventured down the wireless earbud or headphone rabbit hole.

In a cycle where FiiO has released dozens of products, the BTR17 stands out as one of the more complete and mature executions. Not perfect. Not revolutionary. But very, very well executed for $199.

Pros:

• Powerful for the size – Up to 650 mW balanced in Desktop mode with enough headroom for most full size headphones, including higher impedance models.
• Excellent wireless support – Bluetooth 5.4 with LDAC and aptX Lossless delivers near wired performance in real world use.
• High end internal architecture – Dual ESS ES9069Q DACs, THX AAA 78+ amplification, and XMOS XU316 USB stage at $199 is strong value.
• Full 10 band parametric EQ – Deep tuning capability with profile import and export via the FiiO Control app.
• Flexible use cases – Desktop mode, PHONE mode power management, balanced and single ended outputs, compact and genuinely portable.

Cons:

• Not a true desktop replacement – Dedicated DAC and amplifier stacks still outperform it in staging, layering, and ultimate refinement.
• Volume knob feels average – Tactile response and integrated button lack a premium feel.
• Power drops in portable mode – Maximum output is reduced outside Desktop mode.
• Treble is clean but not exceptional – Extended and articulate, though not the most airy presentation.
• Feature density may overwhelm casual users – Extensive settings and modes require some learning curve.

Where to buy:

For more information: fiio.com/btr17

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Google just launched Nano Banana 2, and this model produces professional-grade photos at warp speed while still providing the kind of control you’d only get from premium models in the past. Powered by the Gemini 3.1 Flash architecture, it replaces the previous Nano Banana on all main platforms. Users now have access to significantly more detail, richer textures, and brilliant lighting in every photo. You may create photographs ranging from ultra low-resolution to 4K, and you have complete control over how they appear, whether you want a square portrait or a vast, theatrical scene.

One of the most noteworthy features is the generator’s speed, which allows you to experiment with different ideas without having to wait. Edits appear quickly, whether you’re adjusting the lighting, composition, or a single element. This makes it ideal for rapid experimentation, whether you’re working on a single concept or testing out a variety of images.

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It’s not only about speed; the control is far more precise than ever before. Complex directions are accurately picked up; you may even request tiny nuances in style or tone, and it will be perfectly executed. Object consistency is also far more reliable; you can have up to five characters or figures that seem same from one image to the next. The model can also accommodate up to 14 separate items in a single scene without losing a step, making it ideal for agricultural scenes with animals and tools, as well as highly complex multi-panel storytelling.

Text rendering also looks much better, with words and phrases appearing crisp and clear, making it an ideal tool for infographics, signs, diagrams, and marketing materials. With Gemini’s real-time expertise, the tool can even extract exact details for objects, scenarios, or data visualizations, resulting in a diagram of the water cycle with the proper labels and ingredients.

Nano Banana 2 is currently available in the Gemini app, with options for fast, thoughtful, and pro modes. Google Search has received an AI boost, and technologies such as Flow, AI Studio, Google Cloud, and Ads will include the model in the coming months. Free users will have access to fewer generations, whilst premium subscribers will have far more.

Finding an inexpensive, quality inkjet printer isn’t a challenge. But getting affordable replacement ink is another matter entirely.

You might be shocked to learn that replacement ink cartridges can cost as much as the printer itself, if not more. It’s because printers are often sold at a loss, with the company expecting to make its profit on the ink. 

This strategy, also known as the “razor-and-blades model,” is common in consumer goods, including printers, coffee makers (the ones that use disposable pods) and its namesake, shaving razors.

Printer manufacturers, however, claim there are several reasons why ink costs so much, beyond revenue. Here are the main reasons why printer ink is so expensive.

The razor blade business

The razor-and-blade business model provides a continued revenue stream for printer-makers after a customer buys the hardware. It also locks that customer into an ecosystem. Just as some razor handles are compatible with only a specific blade, printers support only certain inkjet or toner cartridges. 

Manufacturers typically offer different printer models, but they likely use different cartridges that aren’t interchangeable. The cartridges also aren’t refillable by design. While it may seem manipulative, this business model is legal and common practice. It also keeps prices high due to a lack of competition.

It’s all proprietary (aka intellectual property)

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Another way consumers are locked into a closed ecosystem is that many ink and toner cartridges contain chipsets that communicate with the printer, such as the amount of ink or toner left, so the printer can estimate how many pages it can print. They also verify whether the cartridge is authentic (i.e., from the printer manufacturer) or has been refilled. In either case, the printer could reject the cartridge. 

While some third-party suppliers have found ways around this, printer cartridges are proprietary, the intellectual property of the original manufacturer. Customers are usually limited in replacement options other than buying from their printer’s original equipment manufacturer.

This isn’t about the cost of research and manufacturing, or at least, not just about that. Printer-makers claim that their technology ensures consumers get the best print quality from their ink or toner, as well as proper performance and accurate color or monochrome prints. 

For example, inkjet printer ink is formulated to flow smoothly through the tiny printhead nozzles, while laser printer toner powder must be heated and applied evenly. That ink or toner also has to dry quickly on paper without smudging, which is another key reason. The official cartridges also include security features that manufacturers claim protect against malware.

So, although cartridges look simple on the outside, their embedded technology adds to manufacturing costs. Companies say this helps ensure high print quality, but consumer advocacy groups say it is designed to keep out competition while shifting the cost to users.

If you print often, expect to spend more on consumables

Obviously, the more ink or toner used, the sooner replenishment is needed. This is especially the case with inkjet printers, as cartridges often contain a low yield of ink (between 150 to 300 pages). And, if the printer uses multiple cartridges, those costs add up quickly. If you run out of one color, you might not even be able to print black-and-white documents. 

Worse, new inkjet printers include “starter ink cartridges” that offer even lower yields. Laser printer toner cartridges also require replacing, but they tend to have higher yields than their inkjet counterparts.

Also, if you don’t print often, the ink in the cartridges can dry out, requiring replacement before you can print anything.

How to reduce printer ink costs

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There’s no way around it: Inkjet printers need ink, which will eventually run out. But there are a few ways to save some money.

High-yield cartridges

Some printers support high-yield ink or toner cartridges, which double the output of standard options. They cost a bit more, but you may be able to reduce the frequency of ink replacements. They also might be cheaper per page printed.

Refillable ink

Refillable inkjet printers, also known as supertank printers, have gained popularity. As the name suggests, a user pours ink into tanks built into the printer, much like refilling a soap bottle. Refillable inks are cheaper than ink cartridges and offer a much higher yield. (They also produce less waste in general.) However, the printers themselves are more expensive to purchase upfront.

Subscription programs

HP offers its Instant Ink program, which automatically ships you a replacement when ink runs low (the printer sends this info to HP when connected to Wi-Fi). Starting at $1.79 a month, HP sends new high-yield cartridges only when needed and recycles your old cartridges to reduce e-waste. HP says Instant Ink offers a savings of up to 50% when compared to buying off the shelf, and most Wi-Fi-enabled HP printers support the program.

Epson launched a new service called ReadyPrint, where, for a monthly fee (starting at $15), you get a printer and unlimited refillable ink. ReadyPrint is available only on select models.

Print in draft mode and limit color

Oftentimes, lower-quality draft mode is more than sufficient for most print jobs. This can help increase page yields. Nearly all inkjet printers can output in color, but that doesn’t mean you should. Make sure you disable color in your print settings and enable it only when needed.

Consider a laser printer

Evaluate the amount and type of printing you plan to do. If it’s mostly black-and-white documents, it may be more economical to invest in a laser printer, since toner offers higher yields and doesn’t dry out between infrequent uses. 

Then, if you need to occasionally print color or photos, print them professionally at FedEx, pharmacies like CVS and any number of local or online photo print shops. In the long run, this might be cheaper than owning your own color printer if you don’t print regularly.

Third-party supplies

Third-party ink supplies can offer significant savings, but printer manufacturers have strongly fought against this option. They’ve even implemented measures to prevent their use. However, it’s not illegal for consumers to use third-party inks. Before you choose this option, know that the savings may come at the cost of print quality, and some third-party inks could damage the hardware. 

While using third-party ink won’t void the warranty, the printer manufacturer may not cover repairs or replacements if third-party supplies are found to be the source of damage. It’s best to choose a reputable retailer or service known for high-quality third-party inks, and that will stand behind them.

The upcoming BGMI 4.3 update will introduce a new racing-style feature to classic matches, adding an action-packed element to the traditional battle royale experience. The update brings drag-style checkpoints that players can activate during regular games, turning certain map zones into timed vehicle challenge areas.

Once a squad enters a flagged race zone, a timed driving challenge begins. Players must move quickly through designated checkpoints before the timer expires. Finishing the run successfully rewards additional loot, which may provide a game-changing boost during mid-game situations. Nevertheless, such paths are commonly placed in open areas, making the vehicle vulnerable to enemy fire. This is a strategic choice – pursue reward routes or play it safe.

The racing system is a part of the overall mobility emphasis in the 4.3 update. Vehicles are about to play a more strategic role rather than being confined to rotation or escape routes. Such checkpoints can be used by teams as mid-game objectives, aggressive loot routes, or even quick shortcuts.

In this way, the update combines speed challenges with survival gameplay to keep matches interesting and less predictable. Casual gamers and pro squads will actively use the feature to secure bonus loot and strengthen their map position. The checkpoints in the update ensure that the players act quickly and do not hesitate.

Razer has just released a new laptop sleeve built for 16-inch laptops, and it does more than just protect your system from scratches and drops. Two wireless charging pads are located in the front of the device, allowing you to charge your phone and earbuds without the need for an outlet or a cable. So, you can place your iPhone on the lower pad for up to 15 watts of rapid charging, or AirPods on the upper pad for 5 watts. The good news is that both will continue to work even after you plug the sleeve into a USB-C charger with at least 30 watts.

With the design, they made a serious effort to cover users who have to carry laptops around all day. The sleeve has magnetic alignment snaps your devices into position and keeps them secure, even while you’re on the go. This ensures that the charging is always consistent, whether you’re in a conference or waiting for your gate to be called. One thing to keep in mind is that it does not have a built-in battery, so it will take power from whatever source you have connected in, such as your laptop charger, a wall adapter, or a portable power bank

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Despite the extra charging feature, they did not overlook protection. A robust woven polyester shell can withstand the rigors of everyday life, and the reinforced edges are intended to absorb shocks. Inside, there’s a beautiful padded microfiber interior to cushion your laptop, and a snakeskin-patterned finish to keep it looking nice, while all of this weighs in at 410 grams, which is around 60 grams more than their normal non-charging version, thanks to the extra coils and expensive PU leather.

This sleeve is compatible with laptops up to 16 inches, including the latest Razer Blade models. If your smartphone is Qi-compatible, it will charge just fine; but, if you’re an Apple fan, you’ll be pleased to hear that the sleeve supports MagSafe, so you can simply slap your Air or Macbook onto the charging pad and feel that gratifying snap. The sleeve remains quite compact, so it will easily slip into a backpack or briefcase without taking up too much space.

How much? It costs $129.99, which is a little more than your standard sleeve, but the added convenience will be a blessing for travelers or multitaskers who are tired of their batteries dying in the middle of the day. Razer is currently offering it on their website, along with a plain $79.99 version that lacks the charging capability.

Apple may be preparing to shrink the Dynamic Island on next year’s iPhone 18 Pro models.

According to Bloomberg, alongside several well-known leakers, the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max are expected to feature a smaller cut-out at the top of the display. However, the Dynamic Island itself isn’t going anywhere just yet.

Rumours around the Island’s future have been circulating for over a year. At one point, reports suggested Apple could move fully to under-display Face ID, ditching the Dynamic Island entirely in favour of a simple hole-punch camera. That now looks unlikely for 2026. Instead, the more consistent chatter in late 2025 and early 2026 points to a refinement rather than a removal.

From PRIME energy drinks to MrBeast’s chocolate bars, SGFR Store brings in cult-favourite international snacks 

It’s 5AM on a weekend—and instead of sleeping in, dozens of young Singaporeans are already lining up outside a mall in Yishun.

They’re there for one of SGFR Store’s latest outlet openings.

By sunrise, queues were already snaking through Northpoint City, with the crowd reportedly growing so large that some were asked to leave by security before the mall officially opened.

For most retailers, that kind of turnout is reserved for limited edition launches or concert ticket drops. For SGFR, it’s a recurring phenomenon.

The brand has gone viral multiple times, drawing huge crowds for each store opening and new product launches—and it’s a sign of just how quickly the brand has captured a niche in Singapore’s snack market.

SGFR Store’s founder was just 18 when he started the business

Opened in Mar 2022, SGFR Store brands itself as a “concept candy store.” The business’s focus is on cult favourite goodies among today’s chronically online youth. 

Its shelves are stocked with the likes of PRIME energy drinks from influencers Logan Paul and KSI, chocolate bars by YouTuber MrBeast, and Takis tortilla chips in flavours such as ‘Blue Heat’ and ‘Fuego.’ These aren’t just snacks—the influencers behind them have followings bigger than some countries, while Takis taste-test videos rack up millions of views online.

Too niche for mainstream grocery chains like NTUC FairPrice, they find a home at SGFR, catering to young consumers who grew up idolising these online personalities and now seek out their favourite snacks in one place.

Price points vary just as wildly as the products: you can grab Hershey’s Popping Candy for as little as S$1, or splash out on a limited-edition Gold PRIME drink for S$300.

Behind the business is 23-year-old Mohamed Haikkel, whose entrepreneurial streak began early. Before SGFR Store took its current form, it was known as SGFishingRigz, where Haikkel sold fishing kits.

At 16, fresh out of his O-Levels, Haikkel broke his leg in an accident that left him stuck at home. Looking for something to pass the time, he picked up fishing—and quickly spotted a gap in the market.

“When my friends started asking me how to fish, I noticed something. The uncles and aunties at fishing shops only wanted to sell to pros. Nobody wanted to help beginners,” he shared in an interview with Spirit of Enterprise.

So he built what the market didn’t have. Through SGFishingRigz, Haikkel offered beginner-friendly fishing kits that included everything needed to get started, along with QR codes linking to tutorials.

The timing worked in his favour: during the pandemic, when travel was drawn to a halt and people were searching for new hobbies, demand grew. By 2022, at just 18 years old, Haikkel had opened a physical store in Tampines and was running a full-fledged business.

By then, however, with COVID-19 restrictions easing and travel resuming, interest in fishing was tapering off. Despite attempts to revive sales through events and new product launches, the store’s revenue declined sharply.

Amid the downturn, Haikkel spotted a new opportunity. He noticed that customers browsing for fishing gear would often pick up snacks and drinks as well. Influenced by YouTubers showcasing viral American snacks, he began to question why such products were not as easily accessible in Singapore.

That curiosity led Haikkel to import PRIME Hydration, starting with just 10 cartons (or a total of 150 bottles). One TikTok post later, the entire stock sold out in four hours, proving there was a ready market in Singapore for viral, Internet-famous snacks.

Hence, Haikkel pivoted fully from fishing gear to focus on this new venture, marking the start of SGFR Store that same year.

Expanding to nine outlets & launching its own product line

SGFR Store’s early success snowballed quickly. Haikkel brought in other trending brands and expanded to multiple locations, running the business alongside co-owner and longtime friend Lucas Phua.

By Mar 2024, the chain had five stores, collectively generating over six figures in monthly revenue. Today, its store count has nearly doubled to nine.

At first glance, it might seem like SGFR is simply chasing viral trends on TikTok. Some Reddit users have questioned the sustainability of the business model, noting that some outlets appear quiet on certain days.

Haikkel addressed this in a TikTok video. The business doesn’t sell necessities like Watsons, Guardian or NTUC—it is a candy store, hence it “won’t have footfall at every moment.”

Some days are good, some days are bad, and we try doing events and online sales to expand our income streams.

That said, SGFR Store didn’t just want to wait for trends—it aimed to create them. This led to the launch of its first in-house product line. The debut was Quench, billed as the world’s first canned ice cream milk drink, inspired by Singapore’s balang-style pasar malam drinks.

Months of research and development were documented on social media, generating anticipation ahead of launch. The product sold out immediately.

Today, the brand has even expanded to launch snacks like the Cwumble Cwunch, inspired by the viral Kunafe Dubai Chocolate. When shipment delays threatened supply, Haikkel and his small team improvised, working tirelessly for five days to recreate the recipe in-house. Today, Cwumble Cwunch remains one of SGFR’s signature products.

SGFR Store aims to grow beyond Singapore’s shores

SGFR Store’s expanding product line and growing number of outlets are fuelled by its loyal following, something Haikkel has emphasised repeatedly in interviews and on social media.

Influencers like Logan Paul and KSI shaped his approach—it’s not about fame, but about interacting with your audience and keeping them invested with fun, engaging content, he shared in the Spirit of Enterprise interview.

Every month, SGFR Store does something for its community, even if it comes at a cost. During streamer IShowSpeed’s Sept 2024 visit to Singapore, Haikkel gifted him an iPhone 16 Pro Max and a One Piece figure when the streamer dropped by the Arab Street outlet.

On another occasion, the business gave out 400 bottles of PRIME to a local mosque. “This is the stuff that people really remember. This creates a personal connection between us and the viewers each time,” he told Rice Media.

Beyond giveaways, SGFR Store regularly hosts meet-and-greets with fans and content creators like Luqmaan Hakiim, who joined Haikkel and Lucas as a co-owner.

Unlike most retail owners, the SGFR team is treated almost like celebrities—at store launches, fans line up for autographs and selfies, a clear reflection of the brand’s cultural influence among young Singaporeans.

Building on this momentum, SGFR Store aims to expand to 15 outlets by 2026 and set its sights on overseas markets by 2027. “None of this would have been possible without our customers,” said Haikkel. “From day one, they weren’t just buying snacks—they were part of this journey with us.”

• Find out more about SGFR Store here.
• Read other articles we’ve written on Singaporean businesses here. 

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• Astell & Kern PD20 is here
• Offers a listening test and triple-amp design
• On sale in late March for $1,970 / £1,799 (about AU$3,000)

I can’t say I’m the core target audience for the best digital audio player — I don’t have thousands (or even hundreds) to spend on kit like this, so it’s the ultra-cheap options like the Majority MP3 that I end up focusing on. But a new release from Astell & Kern is really catching my attention.

Just a few days after its new copper DAP was one of the gadgets I played with at a high-end audio show, A&K has revealed a new device. Meet the Astell & Kern PD20, which is set to go on sale in mid-March for $1,970 / £1,799 (about AU$3,000).