Hear ye, hear ye – parts of Singapore’s roads might soon be painted blue. No, it’s not a rogue National Day project, but part of LTA’s rollout of ERP 2.0. This will eventually replace the physical ERP gantries we’ve all gotten used to spotting overhead.

In case you’ve been wondering what that means for drivers, here’s the short version: Singapore’s Land Transport Authority (LTA) is phasing out the old gantry-based system and switching fully to a satellite-based Electronic Road Pricing (ERP 2.0) system by 1st January 2027. After that, those familiar gantries will no longer be used for charging, though enforcement will still continue through cameras and other roadside checks.

Here’s what you need to know about the new road markings and what they mean for your daily drive.

What’s Electronic Road Pricing (ERP)?

Image credit: Kalleboo

Now, the basics: Electronic Road Pricing (ERP) is Singapore’s congestion-charging system, which means drivers are automatically charged when they use certain roads during busier periods to help keep traffic flowing at a reasonable speed. It was first introduced in April 1998, replacing the older manual licensing scheme used in the CBD, and has since become a familiar part of driving here.

Traditionally, ERP works through overhead gantries that detect when your vehicle passes through a priced road during operating hours. The charge will then be automatically deducted from a stored-value card such as NETS CashCard or EZ-Link, or billed through a backend payment system linked to your vehicle’s in-vehicle unit.

Once Singapore transitions to ERP 2.0, that same idea will continue, but without the need for physical gantries on our roads.

What’s changing with ERP 2.0? 

The biggest change is that ERP 2.0 won’t rely on physical gantries anymore. Instead, it uses a satellite-based On-Board Unit (OBU) and Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) technology to detect where your vehicle is and calculate charges more precisely.

In other words, drivers can still expect ERP charges in certain areas, but the system behind it will be a lot less dependent on those huge overhead structures we’re all used to seeing.

Image credit: Land Transport Authority via AL Autocar Pte Ltd on Facebook 

You may also start noticing blue painted road zones, which are there to signal that you’re entering an ERP-charging area. As for the gantries themselves, LTA has about 95 ERP gantries islandwide, and many of them are already no longer in active use. These will be removed progressively later in 2026, starting with the non-operational ones, though signboards will still remain at key points to remind motorists when they’re entering ERP zones.

Where are the ERP 2.0 trial locations?

From 1st June to 31st July 2026, LTA will trial 5 different combinations of road signs and markings at 5 locations across the island. About 1,000 motorists will be involved in testing these out, with the findings helping LTA determine the most effective visual cues for letting drivers know when they’re entering an ERP charging zone, once the physical gantries are gone.

Here’s a look at what’s being tested at each trial location:

What do you need to know as a motorist? 

Image credit: Land Transport Authority via AL Autocar Pte Ltd on Facebook 

If you drive a Singapore-registered vehicle, one big thing to note is that an On-Board Unit (OBU) will be mandatory from 1st January 2027. In other words, if you haven’t gotten yours installed by then, you won’t be able to use the new ERP 2.0 system properly.

Image credit: Motorist Singapore

Unfortunately, the free installation window has ended as of 20th May 2026. So if you need to get your OBU installed, you’d have to pay a $35 installation fee for motorcycles and a $70 installation fee for other vehicles.

Additionally, take note that regular CashCards are not supported, and you’ll have to use CEPAS-type cards, such as NETS Motoring Card, NETS Flashpay, and EZ-Link Motoring Card.

Get ready for Singapore’s gantry-free ERP future

We don’t mean to be a cliché – but change is a constant in life, and Singapore’s roads are no exception. Motorists can expect a more flexible satellite-based setup once ERP 2.0 comes into effect, along with those new blue road markings popping up in selected areas.

If you haven’t done so already, make sure to get your OBU installed in time, so you’re not caught off guard when the familiar ERP gantries eventually become a thing of the past.

Read our other articles:

• BlueSG relaunching as Flexar
• International Driving Permit guide
• Malls in SG with EV charging

Cover image adapted from: Motorist Singapore, LTA
Last updated by Celine Wee on 29th May 2026.

The post LTA Is Phasing Out Physical ERP Gantries – Here’s What You Need To Know appeared first on TheSmartLocal - Singapore's Leading Travel and Lifestyle Portal.

Anyone who’s made the trip to JB would have been stuck between choosing Woodlands Checkpoint and Tuas Checkpoint at least once. But that dilemma might soon be easier to solve. With the new Automated Passenger Clearance System (APCS) rolling out at Tuas Checkpoint, crossing the border could become smoother for travellers.

And if all goes according to plan, this upgrade might just be the thing that convinces more Singaporeans to make the longer trek west in exchange for a potentially faster immigration experience. Here’s what we know so far.

What is the Automated Passenger Clearance System?

Screenshot from: ICA Singapore via YouTube

The APCS is a high-tech immigration setup designed to make crossing the border quicker and more seamless. It lets travellers entering JB by car clear immigration on their own using either QR codes via the MyICA app or passports, with facial biometric checks built in for verification.

In simpler terms, there’ll be less manual checking, fewer bottlenecks, and hopefully a much faster drive through the checkpoint.

The system also means more car lanes can stay operational for longer periods, which helps improve overall traffic flow and increases the number of travellers that can be processed. On top of speeding things up, it’s fitted with security features like anti-forgery detection and biometric verification to help flag suspicious documents and impersonation attempts.

How does it work?

Screenshot from: ICA Singapore via YouTube

The Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) recently shared a YouTube video showing how the system works.

Before your trip, generate either an individual or group QR code through the MyICA app.

You’ll drive into the designated car lane at Tuas Checkpoint, where your vehicle will be surrounded by the futuristic-looking APCS setup. There are 4 kiosks positioned around the lane, each equipped to carry out facial biometric verification for passengers in the car.

Screenshot from: ICA Singapore via YouTube

To clear immigration, you can either scan the QR code or use your passport. The QR code option looks like the easier and nearer choice – no need to stretch or open the door just to reach the passport scanner.

Each passenger then looks at the camera for a quick face scan. Once everyone’s identity has been verified, you’re good to go and can continue on your way.

There’s also a workaround for passengers who might not be able to reach the kiosks easily, such as those seated further inside larger vehicles – biometric-enabled tablets placed at the lanes can be used to clear immigration.

What happens if you run into issues while using the system?

Screenshot from: ICA Singapore via YouTube

Officers are able to monitor multiple lanes remotely through a dashboard with access to live camera feeds. Each lane is also fitted with an intercom system, so you can speak directly to an officer if something goes wrong or if you need assistance.

When will the Automated Passenger Clearance System roll out?

Screenshot from: ICA Singapore via YouTube

The system is still in its trial phase for now, and user feedback will be gathered to fine-tune the system before it officially launches in early 2027 at Tuas Checkpoint.

After that, it’ll eventually make its way to the redeveloped Woodlands Checkpoint too.

A new chapter for crossing into JB

As with any new tech rollout, it’ll probably need some time for ICA to iron out any teething issues. So be patient, and this could eventually make border crossings less of a hassle.

More ways to cross the border:

• Enter JB for <$2
• Grab’s cross-border taxis to JB
• RTS Link from Woodlands to JB

Cover image adapted from: ICA Singapore via YouTube

The post All We Know About The New Automated Immigration Clearance At Tuas Checkpoint’s Car Lanes So Far appeared first on TheSmartLocal - Singapore's Leading Travel and Lifestyle Portal.

While flying cars might still be a pipe dream in Singapore, Punggol residents can now brag that they’re living in the future. The neighbourhood, which was once called ulu, is now officially home to the autonomous self-driving shuttles, a service that sounds straight out of 2030. So even if you’re not a Punggolian (seriously, who coined that term?), we can all agree that this is a transport upgrade worth getting hyped about.

What are self-driving shuttles?

These self-driving shuttles are autonomous vehicles (AVs) without drivers, obviously, and are being rolled out in Punggol to ferry residents to key amenities and transport nodes around the neighbourhood. The shuttles will be operated by Grab-WeRide and ComfortDelGro-Pony.AI – 2 major players in the global AV tech scene.

If this sounds like sci-fi made real, well, AVs aren’t entirely new to Singapore. Grab has been using them since July 2025 to shuttle staff between its office and one-north MRT, while WeRide has been zipping passengers around Resorts World Sentosa for about a year. But this is the first time AVs are hitting the heartlands – so Punggol residents, congrats, you’re the chosen ones.

Why was Punggol chosen?

Punggol Digital District.
Image credit: JTC

Punggol might feel like Singapore’s favourite child right now – and honestly, we don’t blame you for thinking that. But there’s a reason.

The neighbourhood was picked for the self-driving shuttle pilot because it checks all the boxes: a compact layout ideal for AV testing, well-established travel patterns among residents, and mature road infrastructure that can handle AVs. Feedback from residents has also helped map out the best shuttle routes.

It also makes sense given how futuristic Punggol already is. With the Punggol Digital District, which has been dubbed “Singapore’s Silicon Valley”, and the GenAI-powered FairPrice Finest at Punggol Coast Mall, it seems only fitting that self-driving shuttles make their heartlands debut here.

What are the benefits of these self-driving shuttles?

2 of the 3 self-driving shuttle routes will bring you to One Punggol.
Image credit: People’s Association

For starters, these self-driving shuttles are set to make parts of Punggol that are a bit out of the way today easier to reach, and could shave up to 15 minutes off your journey.

Although Punggol residents will probably enjoy the biggest perks, the rest of us aren’t left out either. Visiting friends who live in the area before popping by Punggol Coast Mall, or exploring the list of things to do in Punggol, will become more convenient.

What are the routes? 

Routes 1 and 2.
Image adapted from: LTA

There will be 3 main routes launched in stages, connecting residents to hotspots like Oasis Terraces, Punggol Plaza, One Punggol, and Punggol Coast Mall.

Route 3.
Image adapted from: LTA

Route 1 trips will take around 35-45 minutes, running from 9.30am to 5pm on weekdays, with no pre-booking needed. Residents can look forward to saving up to 10 minutes compared to current public transport options.

Each Route 2 trip will take about 50-60 minutes, with commuters saving up to 15 minutes versus existing public transport. This route will require pre-booking on ComfortDelGro’s Zig app.

Finally, Route 3 will take around 40-50 minutes per trip, offering time savings of up to 10 minutes. Like route 1, it also runs from 9.30am to 5pm on weekdays, with no pre-booking needed.

At the moment, only routes 1 and 3 are open to the public for the trial.

When will these self-driving shuttles be open to the public?

After much testing, the self-driving shuttle routes operated by Grab were finally launched on 1st April 2026, and it’s not an April Fool’s joke. Over 1,000 riders signed up for the service, which is currently free for this public ride phase through mid-2026.

How to book a free ride during the public ride phase?

The whole booking process is actually pretty straightforward. Just head to rideair.ai and fill in the form to snag yourself a trial ride slot. From there, you’ll be led to click on a booking link depending on which option you’ve picked.

Screenshot from: Rideair.ai

According to on-site staff, there may be additional services for people who need special assistance, such as a higher platform to assist with boarding, as well as help downloading and navigating the Grab app. That said, if you require special assistance, you might have to wait a bit – slots with these additional services aren’t available at the time of writing, but could open up from mid-April.

Screenshot from: Chope

On the booking site, select your route, number of passengers, and timeslot. Each shuttle can take up to 5 passengers, including a maximum of 3 children. Do note that if your child is under 1.35m tall, you’ll need to bring a booster seat for them.

After filling in your details like your name, email address, and phone number, click on “confirm booking”. A confirmation email will be sent to you as well. Keep this email as proof of booking for the ride.

What AV routes are available during the free public ride phase?

During the public ride phase of Grab’s Ai.R shuttles, members of the public can try out the shuttle service for free by going on Route 1, Route 3, as well as a shorter Route 3 Mini, which is perfect if you just want a quick test ride without committing to the full loop.

Image adapted from: Grab

During this phase, you’ll have to complete the full loop and are not allowed to alight at a different stop from the designated pick-up stop. So yes, for now, it’s just for the fun of trying the driverless experience rather than to get you anywhere.

For Route 1, the designated pick-up point is Block 234 Sumang Lane, beside Sheng Siong, while the pick-up point for Route 3 and Route 3 Mini is at Punggol Coast Mall, Tower 82 Lobby.

Similar to the operating hours of commercial service, the Ai.R shuttle operates on weekdays from 9.30am to 5.30pm during this public ride phase.

BTW, Route 2, which is operated by ComfortDelGro, has just completed its testing phase and is currently only available to invited Punggol residents and grassroots community leaders before opening to the public.

What’s the entire Punggol autonomous shuttle experience like?

Getting to the AV pick-up point

Of course, we had to try out the shuttle while it’s still free. We opted for Route 3 Mini and headed to the lobby of Tower 82 at Punggol Coast Mall. Finding our way there was not a concern because there were plenty of signs along the way. Just follow the purple signs, and you’ll be fine.

There’ll be staff stationed at the pick-up point, who will check your confirmation email and brief you on what to expect before the ride.

Boarding the autonomous shuttle

The shuttles tend to arrive earlier than scheduled, and yes, you can board early if they’re already there. Frequency-wise, vehicles come every 15 minutes, or closer to every 10 minutes for the mini route, since it’s shorter.

Grab’s Ai.R fleet currently has 11 vehicles, with 10 WeRide GXRs currently in service for the public ride phase, as well as an 8-seater Robobus. The latter is still in its testing phase and not available for public rides yet, so we hopped on the WeRide GXR for this experience.

The first thing we noticed about the WeRide GXRs is that they are equipped with over 20 sensors, such as LiDAR arrays and high-definition cameras, to detect other vehicles and pedestrians 360° around.

They even have blind spot sensors on the front and sides, which makes me feel like the AVs might be safer than a regular car – because let’s face it, we don’t have that many eyes on the road.

The Robobus, still in its testing phase.

We also managed to catch a glimpse of the 8-seater Robobus. With its wide windowpanes all around, it looked like a moving glass box – something out of a sci-fi movie.

The interior of the Robobus.

Although the Robobus isn’t ready for passengers yet, we got a sneak peek into the interior, which had smaller seats but looked brighter than the WeRide GXR, thanks to its wide windows.

The ComfortDelGro autonomous shuttle.
Image credit: Ong Rui En

We also spotted the smaller ComfortDelGro vehicle along the routes during its testing phase.

Once you’re on the autonomous shuttle

Image adapted from: Grab

The staff directed me to open up my Grab app and tap on “More” followed by “Transit” before we entered the vehicle.

Here, we selected the route we were planning to take and accessed a “Scan QR” button. This is also where you can book the ride once commercial service begins.

Upon boarding, 1 person from your group will have to scan the QR code at the back of the safety operator’s seat.

Before the ride started, the safety operator on board reminded us that the vehicle would only move off once everyone had buckled their seatbelts.

We noticed that the vehicle is a left-hand drive because it is imported from China, and boarding or alighting is from the right door for all stops along all routes.

There are 5 large seats and some extra room for your bags. Bulky items like strollers and wheelchairs probably won’t fit, as there is no boot space, and it’s best to keep your belongings to just 1 small bag so everyone has enough room.

The seats can be adjusted forward and backwards to give yourself more legroom and can even recline completely – although we don’t recommend doing that when there are other passengers on board.

We also noticed that there were charging ports, light-up mirrors on the ceiling of the vehicle, first aid kits, as well as a screen for us to track the route progress and see what the AV is “seeing”. Other vehicles and pedestrians show up as a white block on the road.

Ending the trip

After completing the loop, we arrived back where we started. The staff directed us to mark our trip as completed via the Grab app and fill out a feedback form.

Overall, the ride felt like just any other Grab ride or even better, with how smooth it was. The vehicle kept within speed limits, yet didn’t hog the road. Some people have said that the shuttle moves a little too slow, but I think they’re just used to going too fast. It’s definitely one of the quicker transport options for getting between stops like Punggol Coast and One Punggol that are not directly connected by the Punggol LRT.

And even if you don’t live in Punggol, the autonomous shuttle is worth checking out if you’ve never ridden on one, especially since it’s free now.

How much will fares cost?

The self-driving autonomous shuttles are currently free to ride. Around mid-2026, the service will cost around $4 per passenger, but this is still subject to confirmation.

There has been some feedback that the flat fare of $4 is too high, but Grab has said that they will offer introductory discounted fares. They’re still gathering feedback during the public ride phase to “fine-tune service and pricing standards”. The final fares for the self-driving shuttles are expected to sit somewhere between public transport and ride-hailing prices.

Are self-driving shuttles safe?

Yes, every AV currently has a trained safety operator on board who will stay alert, anticipate any danger throughout the ride, and get ready to step in and manually stop the vehicle if needed. Grab and ComfortDelGro have even set up academies to train driver partners who want to transition into new roles, including safety operators.

Image credit: Pravin Ramani

According to a safety operator we spoke to, the AVs are already pretty safe on their own and having a safety operator on board at this stage is more for our peace of mind. In fact, once LTA gives the green light, safety operators could no longer be required on board, and you could just have the whole shuttle to yourselves.

The shuttles have also gone through extensive training with a trained engineer and safety operator present, learning every little detail of their assigned routes – from traffic lights and zebra crossings to speed limits.

For other motorists: just treat these shuttles like any other vehicle on the road and obey traffic rules.

These self-driving shuttles in Punggol are just a start

The neighbourhood is quickly shaping up to be Singapore’s little hub of the future. Whether you’re living there or just visiting, Punggol is starting to feel like a sneak peek of 2030, and we’re here for it.

Book a Punggol shuttle ride

More Punggol-related reads:

• Punggol Heritage Trail
• Things to do along the Punggol-Sengkang LRT
• Haunted mansion in Punggol

Cover image adapted from: The Smart Local, People’s Association
Photography by Pravin Ramani.

The post We Tried Punggol’s New Self-Driving Shuttles That Launched On 1st April – Here’s All You Need To Know appeared first on TheSmartLocal - Singapore's Leading Travel and Lifestyle Portal.

As phone prices rise these days, at least our telco bills don’t have to. Instead of being tied down to long-term annual contracts, many Singaporeans have shifted to monthly postpaid SIM only plans. From 4G to 5G data, here are some SIM only plans in Singapore you can sign up for, ranked according to affordability.

What’s a SIM only plan?

Image credit: Jonas Leupe via Unsplash

SIM only plans are mobile service plans that provide a SIM card or an eSIM with data, talk time, short message service (SMS), and sometimes international roaming to countries such as Malaysia and Thailand. Since you’re paying month by month, it’s easier and more convenient if you want to switch to a different plan or a new telco.

4G vs 5G SIM only plans

Many SIM only plans offer both 4G and 5G data. To put it simply: 5G is faster than 4G.

5G means faster loading times when scrolling through social media and better connectivity when you’re in an MRT tunnel, even during peak hour on the City Hall-Raffles Place stretch. While the difference may not be noticeable to the average person, avid mobile phone gamers will definitely appreciate the speed boost. 5G is, however, more expensive compared to 4G.

Do note that your phone needs to be 5G compatible if you’re considering switching to 5G.

Breakdown of best SIM only plans in Singapore

1. ZYM Mobile

SIM only plans from $7/month

Image credit: Nathan Koh

ZYM Mobile operates under Singtel and offers 4G and 5G options. One of the cheapest SIM only plan is their Flexi Duo Plan ($7/month), which comes with 77GB of 4G data that can be used across Singapore and Malaysia.

For those who cross the Causeway often, the plan also includes 100GB of data in Malaysia for 90 days, along with unlimited incoming calls and local SMSes.

Why it’s great: Cheapest and hassle-free plan for your data needs.

Find out more about ZYM Mobile.

2. Zero1

SIM only plans from $7.06/month

Image credit: potions.sg

Zero1 operates under Singtel and provides basic, standard, and jumbo plans at various price points. Their basic Starter Prime plan ($7.06/month) offers 200GB of 4G data and 5GB roaming in Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, Taiwan, the Philippines, and India. 

If you’re a new user choosing to switch to Zero1, you’ll also receive 100GB of data in Malaysia for your first year. This basic plan also includes 300 minutes of local calls and 100 local SMSes.

Why it’s great: Enjoy Singtel’s network access at an affordable price with regional roaming.

Find out more about Zero1.

3. CMLink

SIM only plans from $7.70/month

Image credit: Nathan Koh

China Mobile, or CMLink, offers 200GB of 4G data for $7.70/month, and this is their most affordable SIM only plan. It also includes 1GB roaming in Mainland China and Hong Kong, and 5GB roaming in Macau, Taiwan, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Thailand.

The plan includes 300 minutes of local calls and 100 local SMSes. New sign-ups will also receive an additional 100GB of roaming in Malaysia.

Why it’s great: Quick network speeds if you frequent Mainland China.

Find out more about CMLink.

4. VIVIFI

SIM only plans from $7.70/month

Image credit: VIVIFI

VIVIFI, a mobile virtual network operator under Singtel, provides a range of 4G and 5G SIM only plans.

Their Roam Value plan ($7.70/month) offers 200GB of local 4G data, plus an additional 100GB of Malaysia data for the first year.

You’ll receive 300 minutes of local calls and 100 local SMSes, and 5GB roaming in Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, the Philippines, Taiwan, and India.

Why it’s great: Get Singtel’s solid network coverage at an affordable price.

Find out more about VIVIFI.

5. Maxx

SIM only plans from $7.90/month

Image credit: @mikecys via Instagram

Maxx operates under M1 and offers a wallet-friendly $7.90/month SIM only plan for the first year, before reverting to $9.90/month thereafter. You’ll get up to 290GB of 4G data in Singapore and Malaysia, with 10GB roaming in Bangladesh, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, and Taiwan.

The plan also includes 2GB of international roaming in 24 other countries, including Japan and South Korea, as well as 500 minutes of local outgoing calls and unlimited incoming calls.

Why it’s great: 290GB of 4G data for Singapore and Malaysia, which can be split according to your preference.

Find out more about Maxx.

6. MyRepublic

SIM only plans from $7.90/month

Image credit: Qi Jian Wee via Google Maps

MyRepublic, whose broadband business is now owned by Starhub, offers 4G SIM only plans. For $7.90/month, you’ll be able to use 300GB of local data, 100GB of data roaming in Malaysia, 10GB in Indonesia and Thailand, 2GB of roaming across 14 APAC countries. You’ll also enjoy 150 minutes of local talktime and 50 local SMSes.

At the time of writing, new mobile plan sign-ups can enjoy an additional $5 cashback to offset your phone bill, by shopping at brands like Adidas, Fairprice, and Watsons via MyRewards.

Why it’s great: Free roaming for 17 countries in SEA and APAC at under $10/month.

Find out more about MyRepublic.

7. eight

SIM only plans from $8/month

Image credit: eight

For the most huat SIM only plan, look to eight – an operator under StarHub. Enjoy up to 388GB of 4G data in Singapore and Malaysia with their Double Eight Plan ($8/month) – perfect if you frequent JB often. This plan also throws in 588 minutes of local talktime, 88 local SMSes, and 288 minutes of international calls, plus an extra 88 minutes for Myanmar.

It also includes 10GB roaming in Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam, India, and Taiwan, and another 2GB of international roaming in over 50 countries, including Japan, Canada, and the United Kingdom.

Why it’s great: 388GB of 4G data for Singapore and Malaysia, which can be split according to your preference.

Find out more about eight.

8. Singtel hi!

SIM only plans from $10/month

Singtel hi! (formerly known as Heya) offers a hi! monthly Plan starting at $10/month for your first year when you port in your existing number, and $12/month after a year. The plan comes with 250GB of local 4G data and 250GB roaming data in Malaysia, Indonesia, and Thailand, perfect for short trips.

This SIM only plan includes 300 minutes of local talktime and 50 local SMSes​, with up to 500 minutes​ of international calls to 9 countries.

Why it’s great: New port-ins can enjoy $10/month for a year.

Find out more about Singtel hi!.

9. SIMBA

SIM only plans from $10/month

Image credit: Muhammad Firdaus via Google Maps

SIMBA has been on everyone’s radar recently, especially after buying over M1. There’s a range of SIM only plans to choose from, but a standout is their SuperRoam10 plan ($10/month), which comes with 400GB of local 5G data. There’s even a plan for seniors priced at $5/month.

The SuperRoam10 plan includes 3GB of roaming in over 60 countries, including Australia, Finland, and Switzerland, and 12GB of roaming in APAC countries such as Malaysia, Indonesia, and Thailand. With 500 mins of IDD and unlimited incoming local calls, you can yap with your friends across the globe.

Why it’s great: The 400GB of 5G data can be split between Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Hong Kong.

Find out more about SIMBA.

10. GOMO

SIM only plans from $10.18/month

Image credit: @simonangeline via Instagram

Similar to Singtel’s hi!, GOMO is a mobile virtual network operator under Singtel that provides 4G and 5G plans. Its 4G Saver plan ($10.18/month) offers 100GB of data in Singapore.

This plan comes with 2GB of data roaming in Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, Taiwan, and Australia, and up to 300 minutes of local calls and 300 local SMSes.

Why it’s great: Enjoy Singtel’s network speed and data roaming in 5 countries.

Find out more about GOMO.

11. giga!

SIM only plans from $10.19/month

Image credit: @do.do.chi via Instagram

giga! operates under StarHub with 6 different 4G and 5G plans to choose from. Their most affordable plan offers 100GB of 4G data for $10.19/month.

Aside from 300 minutes of local calls and 300 local SMSes, the plan also includes up to 100GB of rollover data for the next 2 months. You’ll also receive up to 2GB of roaming in Asia, including Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, India, and South Korea.

Why it’s great: Unused data will be rolled over to the next month.

Find out more about giga!.

12. Circles.Life

SIM only plans from $10.80/month

Image adapted from: Circles.Life

Circles.Life operates under M1 and provides multiple flexible SIM only plans with 4G and 5G data. Their 4G Core plan ($10.80/month) offers 350GB of local data with unlimited local incoming and outgoing calls, with free 1GB data roaming across 7 countries.

While this plan is simple, their app makes it easy to top up data, roaming, or SMS on the go.

Why it’s great: Unlimited local calls with 350GB of data.

Find out more about Circles.Life.

13. redONE

SIM only plans from $10.90/month

Image credit: @happyalwayz via Carousell

redONE, which runs on StarHub’s network, keeps things simple with just 2 SIM only plans. The Best10 plan ($10.90/month), the cheaper of the 2, offers 450GB of 4G data for Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia.

The plan also includes 12GB of roaming in 16 countries, such as Brunei, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, the Philippines, and Vietnam. On top of that, you can enjoy 500 minutes of local talk time, 100 minutes to Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia, and 200 local SMSes.

Why it’s great: Enjoy free talk time to countries such as Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia.

Find out more about redONE.

14. M1

SIM only plans from $14.95/month

Image credit: Jason Lim via Google Maps

Before SIMBA completely takes over, M1 is still one of the big 3 telcos in Singapore. M1’s SIM only plan starts at $14.95/month for 150GB of 5G data.

The plan also comes with 1,000 minutes of local call time and 1,000 local SMSes. If you switch to M1, you’ll be able to enjoy $3 off your first 3 months and unlimited weekend data for your first year.

Why it’s great: Unlimited data on weekends for 12 months.

Find out more about M1.

15. StarHub

SIM only plans from $22/month

Image credit: StarHub Paragon via Google Maps

StarHub, known for its broadband TV services, also offers a StarHub SIM only plan for those who prefer no-contract mobile services. Their 5G Lite plan ($22/month) includes 150GB of 5G local data, 1GB data roaming in 5 SEA destinations, and 1GB data roaming across 165 countries.

The plan also offers 1,000 minutes of local calls and 500 local SMSes. StarHub also has a 5G Senior Plan ($12/month) for Singaporeans 60 years old and above.

Why it’s great: Built-in data roaming across 165 countries

Find out more about StarHub.

16. Singtel

SIM only plans from $24.50/month

Image credit: CapitaLand

The most well-known, but also the most expensive option on this list, is Singtel’s SIM only plan. Their Enhanced Lite plan ($24.50/month for the first 12 months, $35/month thereafter) offers 150GB of 5G data and an enhanced network lane, which is said to be 2 times faster than normal 5G.

On top of the 400 minutes of talktime and 400 local SMSes, you’ll have access to 3 months of Burpple Beyond and 3 months of Disney+ Premium if you sign a 12-month contract.

Why it’s great: Free Disney+ subscription for 3 months for you to binge-watch your fave shows.

Find out more about Singtel.

Switch to an affordable SIM only plan in SG

SIM only plans are low-commitment, making it easy to hop between telcos and try something new, so there’s no need to stick with just one permanently. While you may choose to stick to well-known and reliable, but pricier telcos, you won’t know if these are good until you give them a chance.

Check out these other phone-related articles:

• Best travel e-wallets
• Best phone repair shops
• Best power banks

Cover image adapted from: Nathan Koh, @do.do.chi & TheSmartLocal
Last updated by Celine Wee on 9th January 2026.

The post 16 Most Affordable SIM Only Plans In Singapore That Will Make Your Monthly Telco Bill Less Painful appeared first on TheSmartLocal - Singapore's Leading Travel and Lifestyle Portal.

When it comes to owning your very own set of wheels and driving in Singapore, you’ll come to notice that we’ve got a ton of abbreviations for all our vehicle-related matters. From bidding for COE to avoiding highways to save on ERP, there’s no escaping them, and another one drivers ought to be aware of is OBU.

Short for On-Board Unit, it’s a new device that’s projected to be installed in all cars and motorcycles across the country once the current In-Vehicle Unit (IU) system gets phased out under the ERP 2.0 rollout, which is commence on 1st January 2027. If your current ride isn’t installed with one, here’s all you need to know to get yours fitted for free – and the deadline for the free installation – plus the deets on all its nifty features.

What is an OBU & what can it do?

Image credit: Motorist Singapore

An OBU, or On-Board Unit, is a satellite-based device that is installed on vehicles, which is slated to replace the current ERP and IU system from 1st January 2027. Drivers in Singapore might already be familiar with this new gadget, as it has been rolled out for all new and existing vehicles since early 2024.

Image credit: Motorist Singapore

But if you’re a newer road user who’s not familiar with the new-fangled OBUs, it’s thankfully not too daunting to get all caught up with all the hoo-ha surrounding it. Firstly, it’s made out of 3 components, namely an antenna box, touchscreen, and processing unit.

The end of an era.
Image credit: Motorist Singapore

The antenna box is what enables the OBU’s GPS functionality, letting it communicate with satellites, as the new ERP 2.0 system will be relying on it. This also means that bulky, physical gantries like the ones you see on expressways across Singapore will be done away with pretty soon.

Image credit: Jeffrey Sun via Google Maps

The antenna box will be mounted on your car’s windscreen, along with a touchscreen. It displays information like road and traffic conditions, ERP and parking charges, and your cash card balance. Right now, other features include making missed ERP payments directly through the OBU, as well as paying for tolls at the Woodlands and Tuas Checkpoints.

Additional OBU functionalities to look forward to include receiving info such as real-time traffic incident notices, travel times to locations before entry into expressways, and alerts when approaching ERP-charging locations.

Image credit: Sgcarmart

Do note that the installation of the OBU’s touchscreen is optional; those who opt out can still get info via apps on their phones instead, such as the ERP 2.0 (App Store | Play Store). You’ll also have to register your smartphone with OneMotoring’s Digital Services if you want to pair it with your OBU.

Image credit: Vicom

Finally, the processing unit of your OBU is what enables it to make road-related transactions, as it will house your cash card. It’ll typically be affixed on the right side of the front passenger’s footwell. If you prefer for it to be installed elsewhere for better ease of access, do let the folks at the workshop know.

During your first OBU installation, you’ll receive a free NETS Motoring card from LTA to get started. If you prefer for the processing unit to be installed elsewhere for better ease of access, do let the folks at the workshop know.

Image credit: Sgcarmart

As for those with motorcycles, your OBU consists of just a single part, and it’s built to withstand outdoor conditions, so you don’t have to worry about weather-proofing it.

Is it compulsory to install an OBU?

Yes, it will be compulsory for all Singapore-registered vehicles to have an OBU installed by the end of the installation exercise, which is expected to be completed towards the tail-end of 2026. 

After the exercise, it will be an offence not to have an OBU, except for vehicles with restricted uses or technical limitations.

Is OBU installation free & where can I go to get it installed?

If you’ve not gotten yours outfitted yet, installing an OBU is free for now. Vehicle owners who have not installed their OBUs will be issued a final reminder on 15th February 2026, and they’ll have 3 months from the date of issuance to get their OBUs installed. After the deadline, it will cost $35 to get the OBU installed on motorcycles and $70 on other types of vehicles.

Image adapted from: LTA

To check if your vehicle is eligible for a free OBU installation, key in your vehicle plate number on LTA’s OBU information website.

Image credit: Vicom

The page will also direct you to workshops that can help you install your OBU. There are over 350 locations spread across the island, so you’ll definitely be able to find a workshop near you that accommodates your vehicle model. Simply contact any one of them to make an appointment – OBU installation takes 2 to 4 hours, and anyone can take your vehicle on your behalf to the workshop to get it installed, as no documents are needed.

What happens if I don’t install an OBU by the end of 2026?

Image credit: Jurong-Clementi Town Council

For those who decide not to install an OBU before the ERP 2.0 system is rolled out on 1st January 2027, you won’t be able to make ERP payments when you pass through ERP gantries. You’ll get a 5-day grace period to settle any missed ERP charges. After that, a $10 admin fee may be added, and continued non-payment could result in a penalty of $70.

Is my car exempt from installing an OBU?

While installing the OBU is mandatory for most Singaporean vehicles, some vehicles are granted an exemption:

• Construction equipment
• Vehicles under the Restricted Use Scheme
• Classic and vintage cars
• Foreign-registered vehicles

Owners of classic and vintage cars can still get an OBU installed, provided that their cars have undergone a technical feasibility assessment at a workshop. From 1st April 2026, foreign-registered vehicles can also opt to install an OBU. It’ll cost these owners $158.70 until 31st December 2026, and this does not cover the installation cost from the workshops.

If not, owners will have to pay a flat fee – $3 for motorcycles and $10 for all other vehicles – for every day that the vehicle travels on the road from 2027 onwards.

Malaysian taxis are not exempt and are required to get an OBU installed for tracking and enforcement purposes.

All you need to know about installing an OBU in your vehicle

In the blink of an eye, 2026 is already underway, and it’s only a matter of time before ERP 2.0 is fully rolled out. As such, it’s only a matter of time before we have to get accustomed to fiddling with our new OBUs, so we recommend that you get it installed to avoid the rush later in the year. At the time of writing, around 93% of all vehicles in Singapore have already had their OBUs installed, so you don’t wanna be part of the remaining 7% that’s caught lacking when 2027 rolls around.

For more vehicle-related guides:

• Guide to buying a second-hand car in SG
• Guide to getting a motorbike license in SG
• Guide to getting a driving license at CDC
• Guide to driving an EV in SG

Cover image adapted from: Motorist Singapore, Vicom
Originally published on 4th November 2025. Last updated by Josiah Neo on 3rd February 2026.

The post Guide To Getting Your OBU Installed – Where & How To Get It Done For Free, Plus New Features To Know appeared first on TheSmartLocal - Singapore's Leading Travel and Lifestyle Portal.

Many Singaporeans live by online shopping these days, and when so many items are just a mere click away, it’s not hard to see why. One of the biggest platforms for convenient goods is Taobao (App Store | Google Play), an online marketplace based in China with just about anything and everything you can think of.

Taobao can be every shopaholic’s dream come true if you know how to use it, so here are some detailed tips on how to shop on Taobao –  even if you can’t read Mandarin.

Is there an English version of Taobao?

Screenshot from: Taobao

Taobao launched an English version just last year, so you can now easily change the language from Chinese to English in a few easy steps. However, do note that the selection of items on the English version can be quite limited, and the discounts from the Chinese interface often cannot be used here.

So if you’re looking for something specific and would appreciate a wider range of offerings, an alternative is to use the Google Translate function on the Chinese site in the Chrome browser.

1. How to create a Taobao account

As with all shopping platforms, you’ll first need to create an account before filling up your cart. Go to the Taobao homepage and click on the characters 立即登录 (Immediate Login).

Image adapted from: Taobao

You’ll be led to the page below, where you’ll want to click on 免费注册 (Free Registration).

Image adapted from: Taobao

You can sign in with your username or email. Alternatively, press 手机号登录 (Mobile Number Login) below the Facebook login button to sign in with your mobile number. If you’ve forgotten your password, press 忘记密码 (Forgot Password), and if you’ve forgotten your username, press 忘记账号(Forgot User) to trace it.

2. How to shop in English on Taobao

One of the biggest obstacles many of us face when shopping on Taobao is the language barrier. It’s difficult to search for anything or understand the reviews if we’re not proficient in Mandarin, but here’s how to get around it.

If you’re using the Taobao website

Image adapted from: Taobao

First, make sure your region in Taobao is set to 新加坡 (Singapore) after signing in. You’ll find it in the top left corner of the page. If not, look for 全球 (Worldwide), click on it and change to 新加坡 (Singapore).

Image adapted from: Taobao

For a basic page translation, try using the site in Google Chrome. An icon should appear on the top right of your page that offers to translate everything into English, and you can toggle it to “Always translate Chinese (Simplified)”.

The translation might be a tad wonky, but something is better than nothing.

And if you need help understanding the text in pictures, try uploading them to the Google Translate app (App Store | Google Play) to get a quick translation.

If you’re using the Taobao app

Image adapted from: Taobao

For app users, the only way to translate listings into English would be to switch over to the English interface. New users in Singapore may already find their interface set to English upon signing up – but if that’s not the case, simply go to your account tab and click on 语言 (Language) at the top right, which will take you to the language, location, and currency settings. Then, press on 语言 (Language) again and switch it over from 中文 (Chinese) to English.

3. Check out Taobao reviews to ensure your items are legit

As we all know, this is the most important part of online shopping. Reviews can either make or break your shopping experience, because an honest complaint can save you from a really bad purchase.

Seasoned users recommend only buying from shops with at least 3 blue crowns – that means they’ve processed at least 100,000 successful transactions with positive feedback.

In this case, there will be a swamp of reviews for you to wade through, but don’t worry – you can filter them to view only reviews with user-uploaded pictures of the product for clarity.

Click 评价/用户评价 (Comments) to look at the reviews, then click 图/视频 (Pictures/Videos) to view comments with product images and videos taken by actual buyers. You can also look at the proportion of positive feedback (好评) to negative ones (差评) as well as the follow-up (追评) by the seller in response to certain comments or inquiries.

Image adapted from: Taobao

In this case, this product’s reviews in the past 3 months were 99.8% positive, so you can rest assured that the recent quality has remained high.

4. Search optimisation on Taobao

Image adapted from: Taobao

When using the Taobao site, you can mouse over to 分类 (Category) to find products you’re interested in, from clothes or food to furniture.

Image adapted from: Taobao

To look at what’s most popular, you can arrange the search results based on sales volume (销量). The higher the sales volume, the greater the number of successful transactions and reliability.

On the other hand, you can use image search to find a particular product you saw online elsewhere. Click on the camera icon on the main page’s search bar, and you will be prompted to select a picture from your saved files. Taobao will then match it to a similar product sold on the website,  just like how Google Images does its reverse image searches.

5. Getting the right size for clothes & shoes

The model’s stats and clothing measurements for a blouse.
Screenshot from: Taobao

Take note that many models in the product listings do not represent the average body type, and pictures are often digitally enhanced, so it’s best not to agak agak sizes. Sizes in China tend to run smaller – we recommend getting your exact measurements in cm and matching them directly to the measurements listed in the product description.

If unsure, go one size up, because you can always take away the excess material if you need it altered.

6. Decide on a shipping method

After you’ve selected your items and the appropriate sizes, it’s time to check out (结算). Shipping on Taobao is quite flexible, and multiple modes of air and sea shipping are available.

Screenshot from: Taobao

If you don’t mind shelling out some extra money and aren’t purchasing anything bulky or heavy, you can choose air shipping (空运) instead of sea shipping (海运) for a much faster delivery. Many bulky or sensitive items like furniture or electronics can only be shipped via sea, but some sellers will not send out fragile things like large mirrors overseas, so do check with the shop before putting down your order.

But if you’d still like to get something that cannot be shipped over directly, the best option is to enlist the help of an agent – more on that shortly.

Save with shipping discounts

Normally, all purchases come with a delivery fee, but occasionally, there will be seasonal promotional events that you can time your shopping hauls with.

Some of the biggest ones happen before CNY, during 11.11 Singles’ Day, and China’s National Day on 1st October. These events will bring perks like free shipping vouchers, and 每¥300减¥50 (¥50 off every ¥300) to knock even more dollars off your purchase.

Screenshot from: Taobao

But besides limited-time deals, you can also just filter your listings with the 满¥199 SG 包邮 (Spend ¥199 to get free shipping to SG) button, to find products with that promotion. Then simply fill your cart up to at least ¥199 (~S$36.52) with the selected products to get them shipped to your doorstep for free.

Choose consolidated shipping to save more money

For items without shipping promos, the slowest but most economical method would be to use 集运-海运 (Consolidated Sea Shipping). This option sends all your goodies from different sellers to 1 warehouse where they’re packed, weighed, and shipped. Consolidated air shipment is available as well, so just pick the one that says 集运-空运 (Consolidated Air Shipping).

Screenshot from: Taobao

For consolidated shipping, the process is usually as follows:

• The seller ships out your items to the Taobao warehouse.
• You will be notified when the items reach the warehouse. Once you’re ready to consolidate your items, click on the 待集运 (Waiting to be consolidated) tab via your account page.
• On the next page, click on either 海运 (Sea Shipping) or 空运 (Air Shipping). This will take you to a page where you can select which items to consolidate and ship.
• After confirming which items you want to ship, you’ll be prompted to make a 2nd payment. Once you’ve completed this step, your items will be on the way to you.

If you’d rather get it over and done with a single swipe of your card, choose the adjacent options termed 直邮 – 海运 (Direct Sea Shipping) or 直邮 – 空运 (Direct Air Shipping). It’s pricier for the sake of convenience, as your items will be automatically consolidated and shipped out for you.

7. Use an agent service to make purchasing easier

If you can’t understand Mandarin, purchasing from Taobao directly may be rather challenging. And if problems with your order occur, especially during the shipping phase, you’ll have to liaise with the sellers, not all of whom may understand English. Using an agent service like ezShip or Oops solves this problem, acting as a reliable middleman between you and the seller.

ezShip

Screenshot from: ezShip 

You can purchase from Taobao, then choose to use ezShip to have your items delivered to you in a few simple steps. Just choose an ezBuy warehouse in China and set it as the address for your order. Then, fill in the tracking number and the courier company provided with your order into ‘Submit New Order’ on ezShip. You’ll be notified when your items have arrived at the warehouse, so that you can go to ‘View Order’ to make payment and arrange for their delivery to either your address or one of their over 277 self-collection points across the island.

Not only does using an agent simplify the process for non-Mandarin speakers, but it also offers logistics perks. For instance, ezShip provides up to 20 days of free warehouse storage, giving you ample time to wait for all your packages to arrive for consolidation.

And for $1, you can request photos of your parcel to check that it is correct and undamaged. If you want further peace of mind, you can get your items vacuum-packed or stored inside a wooden crate at an additional charge.

For a rough estimate of how much this service will cost, just use their Shipping Fees Calculator.

Submit an ezShip order.

Oops

Screenshot from: Oops

Oops is another agent you can use, and it operates on a similar basis to ezShip. Under its DIY Reship Service, you can sign up and receive a warehouse address and unique mailbox number, which you’ll set as the address for your Taobao order. Then, register your package using the tracking number and courier info.

After your order has arrived at the warehouse, just create a new shipment and choose your preferred shipping method, with different tiers of air and sea freight options.

Screenshot from: Oops

If you need a little extra help, go for the Assisted Purchase Service, where personal shoppers will help you place an order based on your requests. All you have to do is submit and pay for shipment to have your items delivered to Singapore. Check their service rates for both services.

Buy from Taobao with Oops.

Taobao tips & hacks

Admit it – once you venture into the world of Taobao, it’s hard not to get hooked. From the insane range of products to the low prices, it’s one of the best places to shop for everything under the sun, if you know how to navigate it. And with this guide in hand, it’s high time to get savvy.

Check out our other shopping guides:

• Where to buy Pop Mart and blind boxes in SG
• First Flying Tiger Copenhagen outlet in Singapore
• Guide to supermarkets and grocery stores in SG

Cover image adapted from: Taobao
Graphics by Nicole Ang.
Last updated by Huiyuan You on 24th December 2025.

The post Taobao Shopping Tips For Singaporeans Who Can’t Read Mandarin So You Can Online Shop Like A Pro appeared first on TheSmartLocal - Singapore's Leading Travel and Lifestyle Portal.

Ever heard that getting a Surface PC powered by Snapdragon X means you’re signing up for misfiring apps, printers that don’t work, and sluggish performance? Let’s clear the air.

Microsoft Surface laptops and tablets with the Snapdragon X chip are now more capable than ever. Even then, there are still a couple of myths and misconceptions about these handy devices that persist in the ether. Here, we debunk some of these rumours that include a lack of app compatibility and how its AI capabilities are actually nifty.

Myth 1: My favourite apps won’t work on Snapdragon X PCs

Since Snapdragon X runs on ARM architecture that is slightly different from the Intel and AMD language that we’re more familiar with, you might be inclined to think that your go-to Windows app won’t work on a Microsoft Surface. But that couldn’t be further from the truth.

Thanks to the Prism emulation engine that is built into Windows 11, Snapdragon-powered devices can run popular x86- and x64-based applications that have yet to be made for ARM. Yes, Adobe Photoshop, AutoCAD, Zoom, your VPNs, and Netflix will all run as smooth as butter on your Microsoft Surface PC with Snapdragon X.

Myth 2: My printer does not work with Snapdragon X PCs

Another niche – but very common – myth about the Snapdragon X is that it isn’t compatible with wireless printers. Unfortunately for the haters, Microsoft Surface Copilot+ PCs with Snapdragon X can support over 8,500 different wireless printers, thanks to the Mopria universal printing standard.

So whether you’re using Canon, HP, Brother, EPSON, or Xerox printer at home and at the office, rest assured that your documents that need to be printed will be printed.

Myth 3: The Snapdragon X can’t compete with Intel & AMD

It used to be safe to assume that ARM-based PCs like the Microsoft Surface were built for efficiency, not power. With the latest Snapdragon X chips – especially the X Elite – that assumption no longer holds any weight. In multiple benchmark tests, the Snapdragon X handily matches and even outperforms Intel and AMD’s ultra-portable chips.

Efficiency-wise, it also delivers strong value with lower power consumption and integrated graphics, all without needing a discrete GPU. This enables your Microsoft Surface PC to be lighter, slimmer, and all-around more portable.

Myth 4: No AI apps really use a computer’s NPU

There’s no escaping this new world of artificial intelligence that we’re living in. ChatGPT, Perplexity, and Stable Diffusion are all tools that we might use more than once in a day. PCs powered by the Snapdragon X have a built-in neural processing unit (NPU) that can deliver up to 45 trillion operations per second (TOPs). Yes, that’s trillions with a capital T.

You might think that 45 TOPs is kinda unnecessary, and it probably is if you’re just a writer like me. But this lets you run very complex and task-heavy actions like image generation and local language model processing directly on your laptop, not on some remote virtual server. The NPU also frees up the CPU and GPU from running these apps, letting you multitask with little to no lag at all.

For example, generating an image on Stable Diffusion with GIMP only takes around 7 seconds with the Snapdragon X Elite. And using DaVinci Resolve’s magic mask tool takes merely 90 seconds, compared to the 4 minutes it might have taken without an NPU.

Busting myths about the Snapdragon X

Myths are just myths for a reason. The latest Microsoft Surface PCs powered by the Snapdragon X are a testament to how far ARM-based computing has come. Forget about app incompatibility and printer woes. With the Prism emulator, support for thousands of wireless printers, and performance that outperforms its competitors, the Snapdragon X is a mythbuster.

Beyond pure speed and compatibility, the Snapdragon X’s custom ARM architecture also delivers impressive performance, especially in AI workloads, battery efficiency, and multitasking. This is what powers the days-long battery life for the Microsoft Surface Copilot+ devices, letting you stay on the go without having to scour cafes for power outlets.

These PCs also can maintain full performance when unplugged, allowing you to work, create, and game – in no particular order – without compromise.

Find an authorised retailer for a Surface Copilot+ PC powered by Snapdragon

This post was brought to you by Microsoft.
Photography by: Matin Hakim

The post 4 Myths About The Snapdragon PC That Aren’t True, Like Being Incompatible With Apps & Printers appeared first on TheSmartLocal - Singapore's Leading Travel and Lifestyle Portal.

You probably remember or have used Snapchat’s dog-like filter just for LOLs back in the day. This was one of the first times technology became pure entertainment on social media in the 2010s. Fast forward to the 2020s, and Snapchat now offers AI tools that can transform you into virtually anything, like how you might look at 60, just by asking. As AI becomes increasingly powerful and versatile, it’s clear that it’s changing the way we use social media.

We’ve put together a list of new AI tools across social platforms that are worth checking out. Like it or not, AI is here to stay, so we might as well use it responsibly and have a bit of fun while we’re at it.

1. Meta AI

Generate short videos using AI on Instagram, Messenger & WhatsApp

Image credit: Meta

People back in the 1900s used to think that there would be flying cars in this day and age. Instead, we have AI tools that can generate images out of our wildest dreams, even of those flying cars we were promised.

Meta AI is an example – it uses Llama models (Large Language Models), an AI language model that is trained to understand and predict the way we speak and act.

Image credit: Meta AI

How it works: Type in a prompt such as “generate a short video of a cat astronaut on Saturn” on either Instagram, Messenger, or WhatsApp. Meta AI will then use Llama to understand the prompt and figure out the scene, from colours to style. After a few seconds, several images based on your prompt will appear.

What users think of Meta AI

Screenshot from: Reddit 

While Meta AI offers many impressive features, there are times when it can feel a little too close for comfort.

One Reddit user shared a conversation with Meta AI, where the tool allegedly started interactions unprompted – and in one instance, it even sidestepped the user’s question with a lie. This might be a good reminder not to overshare your personal life with AI assistants. Please seek professional therapy – some things are still better kept between you and an actual human.

2. Restyle by Instagram

AI editor for Instagram stories

Image credit: Instagram

Calling all content creators on Instagram for this one, because if you haven’t heard already, Restyle by Instagram lets you whip up cool stuff for your stories, like changing the background, adding or removing things, and even fixing the lighting upon command.

You can even turn yourself into a Minecraft character using Restyle’s preset styles.
Image credit: Instagram

Restyle is really convenient if you just want to post something on your stories quickly – all you have to do is open your stories, make your edits, and publish directly, all in one go.

Image credit: Instagram

How it works: Open an Instagram story or upload any image or video, then tap on the Restyle icon – it looks like a brush with a star on the top right corner of your screen. You should have the option to add, remove, or change something from your uploaded content. Proceed to type your desired prompt or choose an available preset style, and you’re good to go.

What users think of Restyle by Instagram

Image credit: @rebuildagram via Instagram

On an Instagram post, a user who’s an Instagram Specialist said that Restyle is a great tool for swift editing, especially when removing or adding objects in an image. However, using this AI tool to cartoonise people is something she can’t ever get used to because it just looks very strange to her.

Well, here’s the takeaway: even though AI can be pretty neat when animating or generating cool concepts of people, we can’t shake away the fact that it is kind of weird to see a version of ourselves that’s not inherently us.

3. AI characters by Meta’s AI Studio

Chat with AI characters with unique personalities 

Image credit: Meta

If you’ve ever wished your favourite creator had a twin who could reply to your DMs around the clock, Meta has made that a reality. With AI Studio, creators and businesses on Instagram can build their own AI characters that sound just like them, remember past chats, and even act as a mini virtual assistant.

That means you can have a conversation with your favourite influencer’s AI, get personalised replies, or even have it answer simple questions. This keeps the creator’s account active and engaging, even when they’re not online.

Image credit: Meta

How it works: Creators set up their AI character in Meta’s AI Studio by picking its personality, tone, and what it “knows”. Once it’s live, you can message the AI character directly in Instagram DMs, and it’ll chat with you just like a real person.

This function is still rolling out globally, and the chats aren’t fully encrypted, so it’s not for sensitive or professional advice – but for casual chats and fan interactions, it can be a fun way to connect.

What users think of Meta’s AI Studio

YouTuber Brian Creates, who does content on AI and design, finds Meta’s AI Studio characters useful but with some quirks. On the plus side, the tool offers personalised responses when you ask specific follow-up questions, practical advice like recipes or gallery recommendations, and is free to use – a win if you’re trying to save money compared with other services.

On the downside, if you create an AI character with a specific persona, for instance, a fitness coach, it can get a bit predictable. Initial responses can feel generic, and the tool sometimes repeats suggestions instead of giving fresh ideas.

4. Imagine Lens by Snapchat

Generate any type of image using prompts

Image credit: Snap Newsroom

Snapchat has taken AR and AI to another level with Imagine Lens. Beyond fun filters, you can now type in a prompt and watch the app generate an image or an AI-powered video lens.

It’s even possible to create interactive video lenses that respond to movement, bringing a new dimension to selfies and videos.

Image credit: Snap Newsroom

How it works: Open the Lens Carousel and select Imagine Lens (available to Snapchat+ Platinum and Lens+ subscribers on iOS). Type in your prompt, and Snapchat will generate an image or video lens. You can then record videos, layer animations, or experiment with AR effects.

What users think of Imagine Lens by Snapchat

Screenshot from: Reddit

A Reddit user posted about how he used Snapchat’s AI feature to create a fake image of an incident, and was surprised by how realistic it looked, to the point that people actually believed it.

Screenshot from: Reddit

Other Reddit users shared similar impressions, noting how convincing the AI is, with many unable to tell if the images were generated. Meanwhile, others joked about the broader implications of AI, like how AI-produced content might just slip by our eyes, and we’ll end up like our grandparents who got scammed by chain emails.

5. AI Alive by TikTok

Turn your photos from static to 3D

​​Image credit: TikTok Newsroom

AI Alive adds depth and motion to images that would otherwise remain static – you could turn a still photo of your pets 3D and they’ll look just like they do IRL. It’s ideal for creating engaging content, sharing lively memories, or adding a professional-looking touch to personal posts.

Image credit: TikTok Newsroom

How it works: Open the Story Camera and pick a photo from your Story Album. Tap the AI Alive icon, and TikTok will transform the still image into a short, cinematic clip. Post it to your Story, and your followers can view it in their feeds or on your profile.

What users think of AI Alive by TikTok

A YouTuber who does tech reviews described TikTok’s AI Alive as “really cool” for animating still images but argues it’s “totally hit or miss.”

Some prompts produced strange or creepy results, and getting the desired outcome often required multiple tries. Despite the daily limit of 5 generations, he encouraged viewers to “jump in there, play with it” and experiment with the feature.

6. Sora by OpenAI

AI video & social media content generation

Image credit: OpenAI

If you find creating videos from scratch intimidating, Sora makes it a tad simpler for you – just type a simple text prompt, and the AI generates a short video clip ready to share or remix.

Sora also offers a social feed where you can interact with AI-generated content, remix other people’s videos, or test run your storytelling abilities.

Image credit: Sora by OpenAI via Google Play

How it works: Type in your concept, and Sora produces a video clip in seconds. Post it to the feed to share, or browse other AI creations for inspiration.

What users think of Sora by OpenAI

Screenshot from: Reddit

A Reddit user called Sora “mind-blowingly good,” praising how quickly it can turn images into videos and mimic cartoon or viral styles.

They liked the Remix feature for tweaking clips and creating new versions, though results could be “hit or miss,” especially with faces or complex scenes. Despite some glitches and frequent appearances of copyrighted characters, the user was excited about Sora’s creative potential.

7. AI DJ by Spotify

AI DJ with voice or text request feature

Image credit: Spotify Newsroom

Spotify’s AI DJ is like having a personal DJ who knows exactly what you like. You can create playlists by mood, genre, or vibe using voice or text. Whether you want more 80s hits, an upbeat workout mix, or a chill evening playlist, the AI instantly curates and remixes your songs.

How it works: Open Spotify, select AI DJ, and tell it what kind of music you want. The AI updates your playlist in real-time, mixing in new songs and adjusting the vibe.

What users think of AI DJ by Spotify

Screenshot from: Reddit

One Reddit user called Spotify’s new AI DJ “genuinely awesome.” Unlike smart shuffle, the feature dynamically mixes all of a user’s musical tastes into a single stream, changing genres automatically.

Users can press the DJ button to switch genres instead of skipping songs. The AI even talks you through the changes, giving intros and explaining genre changes, so you’ll receive a realistic DJ experience. The user loved that it could surface remixes of familiar songs and felt the AI truly “knows” their musical preferences, making it feel personal and engaging.

Use AI tools wisely to create, explore & have fun

AI is advancing rapidly, changing the way we work, create, and interact online. These tools are incredibly useful, whether it’s making content, organising tasks, discovering new music, or simply having fun. At the same time, it’s important to remember that AI isn’t always the answer – using it wisely alongside our own judgment makes it truly powerful.

Read our other articles on useful tools:

• Trip.Best by Trip.com
• Free AI tools for productivity
• Human Resource Management Systems (HRMS) in Singapore

Cover image adapted from: Meta

The post 7 New AI Features You Can Try On IG, TikTok & Spotify To Make Your Content More Interesting appeared first on TheSmartLocal - Singapore's Leading Travel and Lifestyle Portal.

We’ve just breached December, so it might be a tad early to start talking about New Year’s resolutions, but do we really need to wait till the countdown fireworks go off to get started on them? Probably not. For those who’d like to cultivate the good habit of reading, now’s the best time to start, as eReaders like the Rakuten Kobo have made digitally leafing through books so accessible.

From the best places in Singapore to shop for one to hooking it up with Libby to borrow from NLB’s huge repository of free eBooks, here’s a Kobo eReader guide to get you started on your literary journey.

What is a Kobo & what are its features?

The Rakuten Kobo is a brand of eReader produced by Rakuten, a Japanese technology conglomerate.

Image credit: Rakuten

In Singapore, the Kobo comes in 5 main models, each with its own unique features, but in general, they allow users to conveniently read on the go without needing to carry around heavy books. Their screens are also made with electronic ink and front-light technology which diffuses light across pages rather than illuminating them from behind, making long reading sessions easy on the eyes.

Kobo’s entry model, the Kobo Clara.
Image credit: Rakuten

The smallest of the bunch, the Kobo Clara, sports a 6-inch-long screen and weighs less than 180g, which means it won’t take up much space in your everyday carry. Below is a table comparing each of the 5 models’ specifications and price points:

How to use Libby & the NLB app to borrow eBooks on my Kobo?

Now that you’ve got your hands on a Kobo, you might be eager to cosy up with a good read ASAP, so you’ll need to know how to get eBooks loaded onto your device.

Uploading ePUB & PDF files

Image adapted from: Rakuten Kobo

For starters, you can connect your Kobo via USB-C to your computer, like how you would with any external hard drive. Once your Kobo detects your computer, tap on the “connect” prompt, and you’ll then be able to drag and drop ePUB and PDF files into a drive called “Kobo eReader” drive. Give a second to import your eBooks; afterwards, you’ll be able to find them under the “My Books” section at the bottom of your Kobo.

Downloading free eBooks from NLB

Image credit: r/random_avocado via Reddit

But if you don’t have any eBooks to read on hand, you’ll have literal libraries’ worth of them to browse through via Libby (App Store | Google Play) or the NLB app (App Store | Google Play). To set up your pocket library, follow these simple steps:

• Go to your Kobo’s settings and tap on the “OverDrive” tab
• Type in NLB and tap on any NLB library to add one to your device to borrow eBooks from. It doesn’t matter which public library you choose, as all of NLB’s eBooks are part of a centralised digital collection.
• Sign in with your NLB account. If you don’t have one, you can sign up for one via the NLB website. You can also choose to sign in via Singpass.

After you’ve signed in with your NLB account on your Kobo, you’re ready to start borrowing eBooks to read. You can borrow them directly from your Kobo’s “Discover” tab, under OverDrive, or use the aforementioned Libby or NLB apps on your other mobile devices.

Popular titles that are hot off the press might require even longer waiting times to loan out, no thanks to BookTok.
Image adapted from: Khoo Yong Hao

By default, you are able to borrow eBooks for up to 21 days. Do note that for popular titles, you might have to place a hold in order to borrow them – this means you’ll be placed in a digital queue with waiting times floating around 1 to 2 weeks – and you’ll be notified when it’s your turn to loan the book out via email.

There’s also the option to extend your borrowing before 21 days are up, provided no one else is waiting for the eBook to be available.

Other helpful features to know on your Kobo

Aside from being mighty portable and compatible with NLB’s immense library of eBooks, Kobo eReaders also come with a plethora of other helpful features that will come in handy for both budding and seasoned readers. Here are some of them:

• Adjust brightness on the fly by sliding your finger up and down on the left side of the page.
• Long-press a word to look up its definition; you don’t need to be connected to the Internet to do this.
• Long-press words or phrases to highlight them and add your own annotations
• View reading stats like the amount of hours spent reading, pages per minute, and how many books finished. Do this by tapping on “More” at the bottom of your Kobo, and then “Activity”.
• Make collections to sort your eBooks out neatly, by tapping “…” beside titles in the “My Books” tab, then “Add to Collection”.

Where to buy a Kobo in Singapore?

There are plenty of places in Singapore where you can pick up a Kobo eReader. For starters, you can visit electronics retailers like Challenger, COURTS, and even POPULAR bookstores found islandwide to purchase one.

If you prefer to shop online, you can get one on the official Rakuten Kobo website, but we recommend having a look at shopping platforms like Lazada, Shopee, and Amazon to take advantage of any ongoing sales to take a couple of bucks off your purchase.

Image credit: Lucky Store via Google Maps

Speaking of discounts, you can also utilise your unused CDC Vouchers and SG60 Vouchers to buy a Kobo at stores that accept them. One such electronics shop is Lucky Store in Tanjong Katong; do enquire with them if they have any in stock before heading down, either by ringing them up or sending them a DM on Instagram.

Full list of official Kobo retailers.

All you need to know about getting a Kobo to read free eBooks

Image credit: @rakutengroup via Instagram

Having owned a Kobo Clara BW since the second half of 2025, I can truly say that having a dedicated reading device has made enjoying my books cover to cover so much easier. I don’t get distracted by errant pings, nor am I tempted to spiral into a doomscrolling session every 30 minutes.

Coupled with the fact that borrowed books have a due return date, I’ve seen my fair share of books to the end ever since picking up a Kobo, so investing in one just might be the thing to spark your interest in reading. To get you started, here’s a list of must-read fiction books of 2025.

For more tech-related reads:

• Kobo vs Kindle comparison
• Gaming & electronics stores to use CDC vouchers at
• Causeway traffic apps & websites

Cover image adapted from: 

The post How To Read Free eBooks On A Kobo – Step-By-Step Guide To Connecting To Libby & Uploading Files appeared first on TheSmartLocal - Singapore's Leading Travel and Lifestyle Portal.

There has been a surge of interest in e-readers lately, especially since a TikTok video showing how and where to buy one using CDC vouchers went viral. But with so many options out there, it’s easy to get lost in the techy jargon.

We’ll be comparing 2 popular e-readers in Singapore, the Kobo and Kindle, so you’ll know which one’s worth spending your cash or CDC vouchers on.

Why should you buy an e-reader?

Image credit: @melindasbooked via Instagram

As much as we love the smell of a fresh paperback, traditional books can be a strain. They’re bulky, pricey, and hard to lug around, especially when life is already so hectic.

That’s where an e-reader comes in. E-books are generally cheaper, and with an e-reader, you’ll be able to store hundreds of titles – way more than what a regular HDB flat can handle. They’re also lightweight, which makes reading on the go or while travelling much easier.

While there’s always the option of reading on your phone or tablet, that usually ends with eye strain and fatigue. Luckily, e-readers use E Ink technology, which mimics the texture of real ink on paper, helping you binge-read for hours without feeling like your eyeballs are on fire.

In Singapore, the 2 main contenders are Kobo by Rakuten and Kindle by Amazon.

Where to buy an e-reader in Singapore?

Image credit: Lucky Store via Google Maps

If you’ve seen that viral TikTok video, Lucky Store is one of the more popular places to buy a Kobo e-reader using your CDC vouchers. Since then, demand has been through the roof, so it is recommended to reserve your order with them in advance. Once the stock arrives, they will drop you a text on WhatsApp so you can head down to pick it up.

You’ll also find Kobo and Kindle e-readers on various online retailers like Shopee, Lazada, and Amazon Singapore.

What are the different Kobo & Kindle e-reader models?

Kobo Clara Colour in the white colourway.
Image credit: @kobobooks via Instagram

There are currently 5 Kobo e-reader models in the Singapore market, with prices ranging from $209.90 to $649.90. Here’s a quick overview:

Get the Kobo Clara BW, Kobo Clara Colour, Kobo Libra Colour, Kobo Sage, and Kobo Elipsa 2E.

Image adapted from: Amazon

As for the Kindle e-reader, the most widely available model in Singapore is the Kindle Paperwhite, which costs $270.43 on Amazon. It’s the 12th Generation version, featuring a 7-inch display with a warmer tone that gives it that paper-like look and feel. You’ll also get 16GB worth of storage, adjustable warm light settings, and a battery that can last up to 12 weeks.

Get the Kindle Paperwhite.

Are there subscription services & how much do they cost?

Yes, there are subscriptions. However, they aren’t compulsory, and you can still purchase or borrow books without subscribing to one.

Image credit: Rakuten Kobo

Kobo has its own subscription service, Kobo Plus. There are 3 types you can choose from: Kobo Plus Read ($9.99/month) for unlimited e-books, Kobo Plus Listen ($9.99/month) for audiobooks, and Kobo Plus Read and Listen ($12.99/month) if you want to enjoy the best of both worlds.

You’ve also probably heard of the Kindle Unlimited subscription service, but that is unfortunately unavailable in Singapore. What you can use is Audible (App Store | Google Play) – Amazon’s exclusive audiobook subscription. Set aside US$14.95/month (~S$19.36) and you’ll get access to an unlimited catalogue, from fiction novels to autobiographies and self-help books. If you’re not ready to commit to that, there’s a 1-month free trial available for those just testing the waters.

Do note that Audible is only compatible with the 10th Generation Kindle Paperwhite and newer. Another way to get e-books and audiobooks on Kindle is through Amazon. More on that below.

What are the unique features of the Kobo & Kindle e-readers?

X-Ray function on Kindle

One of the Kindle’s most well-loved features is X-Ray – a built-in super search engine that lets you look up characters and see every time they’re mentioned in a book. This is a lifesaver when you’re reading mystery or fantasy novels with multiple characters to follow.

You can also search for different locations in the book. For titles that jump between worlds or settings, X-ray helps you stay oriented so you’re never left wondering, “Wait, how did we get here again?”

Note that the function only works with e-books purchased on Amazon, and the experiences differ depending on the book. But overall, it’s a useful tool that really enhances the reading experience.

Purchase e-books & audiobooks without a subscription on both Kobo & Kindle

Image credit: @shannonbythebook via Instagram

Like we’ve mentioned above, it’s possible to purchase e-books without a subscription. You can easily get e-books for your Kindle from the Amazon online store or the Kindle store on the device itself. The content available varies depending on your region, but most of the popular titles and new releases should be easy to find.

Image credit: @kobobooks via Instagram

For the Kobo e-reader, e-books and audiobooks can be purchased directly from the Kobo store on the device itself. Just click the “Checkout on this device” option and add your credit card to complete the purchase.

Borrow library books through OverDrive on Kobo

Image adapted from: Rakuten Kobo

Many who argue in favour of the Kobo usually mention the OverDrive function. It basically allows you to connect to your NLB account and borrow e-books from local libraries. So if you haven’t touched your NLB account in a while, it might be a good idea for you to dig it up again. And the best part is: you don’t need to download any external apps – everything’s done right on the Kobo itself.

Here’s how to download books through OverDrive:

1. Go to the Kobo’s Home screen.
2. Tap on “More” at the bottom of the screen.
3. Go to “Settings”, then “OverDrive”, and tap on “Get Started”.
4. Navigate to “Sign in to OverDrive”.
5. Key in the nearest NLB library to you, click on it, then proceed to signing in.
6. Either scan the QR code or click on the URL provided and key in the code displayed on your e-reader to continue. Follow the onscreen instructions.
7. If prompted, fill in your library card number and password.
8. Tap “Sign in” and agree to connect your NLB account to your Kobo account.

Check out Kobo’s website if you need more help with OverDrive.

Note-taking & highlighting text on Kobo

For those who can’t bring themselves to highlight or scribble all over a physical book – we get it, it feels almost criminal. With an e-reader, you’ll get to annotate whenever you want, and if you change your mind, just press delete and it’s like it never happened.

Kobo even takes it up a notch with the Kobo Stylus 2 ($99.90), which lets you write notes, highlight text, and annotate on the pages. It’s a separate product you can get on top of your device. If you’re the type to have a lot of thoughts when reading, you should consider investing in this. The stylus is compatible with the Kobo Libra Colour and Kobo Sage, while the Kobo Elipsa 2E comes with one included.

There’s also the Kindle Scribe, which also has the notetaking functionality along with a stylus, but this one isn’t available in Singapore yet. We’ll keep you posted when that happens.

Is it possible to transfer existing e-books to the Kobo & Kindle e-readers?

“Send to Kindle” function

Screenshot from: Amazon

Some of you might already have a stash of e-books sitting on your computer or phone, and the good news is that it’s possible to transfer them to your e-readers. Amazon has a Send to Kindle function on its website. Sign in to the account that’s linked to your Kindle, and just drag and drop your files from your computer into the website, and you’re good to go.

Beyond using the computer, there are many other ways to transfer e-books to your Kindle:

Check out the Amazon website for more details.

Send to Kobo via Google Drive

“My Google Drive” tab on Kobo.
Image credit: Rakuten Kobo

With Kobo, the easiest method is through the Google Drive app (App Store | Google Play) or website. You don’t have to use a laptop for this, but do make sure your e-reader is up to date, as it’s only compatible with version 4.37 or higher.

Here’s how:

1. Pair your Google Drive account with your Kobo device. You’ll receive a 6–digit alphanumeric code.
2. Key this code into the website shown on the display.
3. Sign in to your Google account and give Kobo permission to access it.
4. From Google Drive, find the Rakuten Kobo folder.
5. Drag and drop your files into the Google Drive folder.
6. Reload your Kobo and toggle to the “My Google Drive” tab to access the books.

Check out Kobo’s website for a list of compatible files, just to be sure your uploads will work smoothly.

So, which e-reader is better?

The Kobo is generally great for bookworms who want to borrow e-books from the library, scribble notes with a stylus, or enjoy a splash of colour on their pages. Meanwhile, the Kindle is ideal for those who live in the Amazon ecosystem, love handy features like X-Ray to track every character and plot twist, and are all about that crisp, paper-like reading experience.

At the end of the day, choosing between the 2 is purely a matter of preference. Knowing what matters most to you will make the choice a lot easier. Think of it less as which is “better” and more as which fits you best.

Invest in an e-reader to help you reach your reading goals

Overall, having an e-reader makes reading more convenient in our hectic day-to-day lives. You can now read with no distractions and access your entire library from anywhere.

For more gadgets & tech guides:

• Best noise-cancelling headphones
• Guide to using XiaoHongShu or RED
• GIGABYTE AERO X16 laptop

Cover image adapted from: Rakuten Kobo, Amazon
A portion of this content may contain referral links where The Smart Local may collect a commission. Our opinions remain our own.

The post Kobo Vs Kindle – Prices, Unique Features & Key Differences To Know Before Buying An E-Reader appeared first on TheSmartLocal - Singapore's Leading Travel and Lifestyle Portal.