Prep the candles! This year, the audio icon that is Sennheiser turns 80, joining the ranks of other legendary eight-decade legends. Think the original Rubik’s Cube, the first Star Wars movie, and icons like Bruce Willis and Whoopi Goldberg. And, to mark eight decades of shaping music, culture, and creativity, Sennheiser is celebrating in style with a limited-release Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless 80th Anniversary Edition, reimagined by cutting-edge graffiti artist Bond Truluv. Launching across Australia on 21 August, this collaboration transforms a cult-favourite headphone into a wearable piece of street-art magic.

The 80th Anniversary Edition features Truluv’s dynamic throw-up tag and audio-inspired linework flow across both earcups, with signature yellow accents that pay homage to Sennheiser’s iconic HD 414. The result is headphones that make both sound and statement.

Of course, under the artistic design lies everything fans love about the Momentum 4. Expect crystal-clear audio, next-generation noise cancellation, and a staggering 60-hour battery life. For those who like to future-proof their sound setup, there’s also a special Gift with Purchase: a free BTD 600 Bluetooth transmitter with every set, available until 10 September.

Bond Truluv describes his approach as bringing sound to life visually. “I wanted the headphones to feel like sound in motion—fluid, raw, and exciting,” he says. His signature throwie tag and abstract linework capture the balance between chaos and control, creating a headphone that resonates both as an audio device and a piece of culture.

Availability is wide, so Aussies won’t need to hunt far. The headphones will hit JB Hi-Fi, Amazon, Harvey Norman, and Sennheiser.com.au on 21 August, priced at $639.95. It’s a design that celebrates Sennheiser’s past while looking forward to the next generation of creators and listeners.

For those not familiar with Bond Truluv, he’s a German-born graffiti artist who pushes boundaries with augmented reality street art. His murals have appeared across Europe and Asia, transforming public spaces into immersive visual experiences. Now, his signature style is ready to hit the streets—well, your ears—right here in Australia.

Sennheiser has long stood for audio excellence. From microphones on the world’s greatest stages to headphones that deliver immersive, true-to-life sound, the brand has been shaping how we experience music since 1945. The Momentum 4 Wireless 80th Anniversary Edition is the perfect intersection of culture, sound, and design, and it proves that great audio isn’t just hear – it’s felt.

Whether you’re a die-hard audiophile or just someone who loves music that moves you, this limited-edition release is a celebration worth listening to. Colour outside the lines, embrace the next generation of sound, and experience eight decades of Sennheiser in a single, bold design.

The post Happy 80th Birthday, Sennheiser! first appeared on Women Love Tech.

Perimenopause. Say it out loud. Sounds a bit like a spell from Harry Potter, doesn’t it? But, for thousands of women, it’s anything but magical. Hot flushes, hormone hijacks, unpredictable periods can leave even the most organised woman wondering, what in the witchcraft is going on in her body.

Enter Shelly Horton, journalist, TV presenter, and self-proclaimed peri warrior, with her new audiobook, I’m Your Peri Godmother, exclusively on Audible. Equal parts laugh-out-loud storytelling and practical guide, Horton’s audiobook brings her unfiltered perimenopause journey straight to your ears – along with insights from local and international menopause experts. Think of it as sitting down with your wittiest, most honest friend who gets it, and won’t roll her eyes at your midlife madness.

“This audiobook was surprisingly emotional to record,” Horton says. “Telling my story in my own voice felt like having a very honest chat over a cuppa – or a wine – with my bestie. I hope it helps women feel less alone and more supported through the ups and downs of perimenopause. And let’s be real – midlife women are bloody busy! With the audiobook, they can listen on-the-go, while juggling life, or just enjoy the comfort of having someone who ‘gets it’ in their ears.”

I’m Your Peri Godmother doesn’t shy away from the messy bits. Horton shares her own peri story – from kicking career goals to suddenly landing in the ICU thanks to a full-blown hormone mutiny – alongside evidence-based tips and advice from experts like Dr Louise Newson, Dr Mary Claire Haver, Dr Kelly Casperson, and Dr Ginni Mansberg. The book is packed with practical tools to help women navigate symptoms, understand treatments, and make sense of the often confusing medical landscape – all while keeping your sense of humour intact.

Karen Appathurai Wiggins, Head of Regional Content, APAC at Audible, adds, “While perimenopause and menopause are being talked about more, there is still work to be done to educate everyone on how to support those on this journey. We’re proud to bring I’m Your Peri Godmother to an even wider audience and to be part of a conversation that helps women feel seen and supported.”

This is more than a book; it’s a movement. Horton has long been a champion of women’s health, speaking up about PCOS, heavy periods, depression, childfree choices, and, of course, peri/menopause. With humour, honesty, and a dash of sass, she breaks down taboos and myths while empowering women to face this stage of life with confidence – and maybe even a little swagger.

For anyone wondering where to start on their peri journey, Horton’s audiobook is a no-brainer. She delivers laughs, relatable stories, expert advice, and practical strategies for surviving – and thriving – through the hormonal rollercoaster. It’s like having a peri fairy godmother in your pocket (or headphones), ready to guide you through the chaos with warmth, wit, and a knowing wink.

I’m Your Peri Godmother is available now exclusively on Audible. So, plug in, pour a cup of tea (or a cheeky red), and let Shelly Horton guide you through perimenopause with confidence, clarity, and a big dose of humour.

The post Shelly Horton is The Peri Godmother You Never Knew You Needed first appeared on Women Love Tech.

Forget heavy boards, overpriced dry-cleaning runs, and the nerve-wracking moment when your iron gets just a little too hot on your AJE silk dress. The sleek Tefal Care For You First Automatic Garment Steamer is a de-wrinkling, sanitising and clothes automatic-clothes-drying triple threat – that is ready to let off a little steam so you don’t have to.

To start (incase you mixed the very excited memo in the headline!) it can take on three items of clothing at once. Three. In ten minutes. That’s your Monday meeting shirt, Tuesday dress, and a backup pair of trousers all done before you’ve even finished scrolling Insta… err … the BBC News. And, unlike the arm workout that is handheld steaming, the Care For You First does all the (literal) heavy lifting for you with its 360° rotating hangers and clever automatic straightening clips. So, no weird creases in random places, no fuss and no arms that feel like they’ve been doing 30 minutes of bicep curls at Anytime Fitness. And, frankly, we’re shook.

But, this device isn’t just about vanity. It’s about hygiene too. In just 20 minutes, it can reduce odours, which means yesterday’s butter chicken scented jacket, or your gym bag no longer need to carry a scent. Give it 40 minutes, and the Tefal Care For You First Automatic Garment Steamer kills bacteria, viruses and germs without a single drop of detergent or chemicals.

It also doubles as a gentle dryer – five times faster than air drying, with zero risk of shrinking or singeing. So, while you may be having “I have nothing to wear dilemmas”, that no longer covers that delicate blouse you’d normally lay flat for 24 hours, which you can now can slip on by dinner. And. because it runs on the natural power of steam, it’s energy-efficient, eco-friendly and endlessly kinder to fabrics than blasting them in a tumble dryer or scrubbing them with chemicals.

Will all of the above render your local dry cleaner obsolete? While you’re probably still safer sending your nan’s heirloom wedding dress to the pros, it can certainly help you spend less money (and time) on dry cleaning. To test it for yourself, pop that wool suit or silk dress you’d usually send off in theTefal Care For You First Automatic Garment Steamer and let us know what you get. When we tried this at home, we were pretty chuffed with the no lint-covered plastic hangers or mystery “handling fees” attached, results.

Basically, the Tefal Care For You First Automatic Garment Steamer is to ironing what the smartphone was to landlines: a complete re-think that makes you wonder why we ever put up with the old way. Whether you’re a time-poor professional, a parent constantly battling school uniforms, or someone who just likes their linen looking sharp without the drama, this device is a wardrobe win.

We’re calling it: ironing is cancelled.

The post This Device Has Worked Out How to De-wrinkle Three Items of Clothing in 10 Minutes …But It’s Not an Iron first appeared on Women Love Tech.

When it comes to fitness, most of us rely on how we feel to measure progress. Maybe you notice a heavier lift, a faster run, or simply that your jeans fit better. But what if you could see exactly what your body was doing beneath the surface 0 where your strengths lie, where imbalances creep in, and how to fix them before they become problems? That’s the promise of Quay Function Assessment powered by VALD technology. and it’s now available in Sydney through Virgin Active Bondi Westfield. 

Science in the service of your body

Used by elite sports teams, high-performance coaches, and top physiotherapists worldwide, Quay Function Assessment, powered by VALD technology has earned its reputation as the gold standard for movement and performance testing. It’s not a single tool, but a suite of advanced systems designed to give a complete picture of how your body works.

• ForceDecks use dual force plates to measure jump height, balance, and asymmetries in strength and power.
• DynaMo, a handheld dynamometer and inclinometer, captures detailed data on strength and range of motion.
• ForceFrame tests isolated muscle groups for stability and resilience.
• And the NordBord, often used in professional football and rugby clubs, specifically assesses hamstring strength – an area notorious for injury.

All of this information is collected in the VALD Hub, a centralised platform that transforms raw numbers into clear insights. You’ll see how you compare against population norms, where weaknesses or risks might be hiding, and how your performance is tracking over time.

Why it matters for you

For the everyday athlete – or anyone who simply wants to move better – this means no more guesswork. VALD screenings take the “I think” out of training and recovery, replacing it with “I know.” That sore knee might not just be from overtraining, but from a strength imbalance you hadn’t spotted. That sluggishness after long runs could be linked to movement inefficiencies revealed in your data. And the beauty of Quay Function Assessment powered by VALD technology is that it doesn’t just flag the issues — it guides the solutions.

At Quay Health, physiotherapists and performance specialists use VALD results to build personalised programs for injury rehab, performance optimisation, and long-term wellbeing. Every improvement is measurable, every milestone is trackable, and every strategy is grounded in hard data. It’s like having a scientific playbook for your body.

From precision to pleasure

But, here’s the twist: wellness isn’t only about numbers. Once you’ve unlocked your personal insights with VALD, you’ll want a place to put them into practice. And, that’s where Virgin Active Bondi Westfield comes in.

This isn’t your average gym. Spanning 2,500 sqm in the heart of the Eastern Suburbs, it’s a luxurious wellness hub that balances hard training with indulgent recovery. Think Reformer Pilates, Lift and Run Clubs, and a gym floor packed with premium equipment. Then add Finnish and infrared saunas, hydrotherapy spas, cold plunges, marble-heated recovery slabs, compression boots, massage therapy, and even a sustainably sourced café to refuel afterwards.

By pairing VALD screenings at Quay Health with the holistic environment at Virgin Active, you’re not just working out – you’re engaging in a complete cycle of science and sanctuary. Data informs your training, recovery supports your progress, and the result is a fitness journey that feels as good as it is effective.

The future of fitness is here

Whether you’re coming back from injury, looking to elevate your performance, or simply curious about how to make your workouts more efficient, Quay Function Assessment powered by VALD technology offers clarity where there used to be guesswork. And with Virgin Active Bondi Westfield creating a space where wellness feels like a lifestyle, not a chore, it’s never been easier to turn cutting-edge science into everyday transformation.

In short: this is fitness, upgraded.

The post How Assessment Technology is Changing the Way We Train first appeared on Women Love Tech.

Melbourne sneaker lovers, photographers, and creative souls, get ready to lace up your imagination! Fujifilm Australia and Converse Australia are inviting Aussies to Sneaker Studio, an exclusive one-day sneaker customisation pop-up where streetwear meets photography in a collision of colour, creativity and seriously cool street cred.

Taking inspiration from Fujifilm’s new X-E5 camera, the Sneaker Studio gives guests the chance to turn your favourite photos into wearable art. Whether you capture an epic street snap, a moody monochrome moment, or an abstract burst of colour, Sneaker Studio brings your images to life on a fresh pair of Converse Chuck Taylor All Stars. It’s like stepping into a gallery every sole has a story.

The concept is simple but brilliant. Submit your idea for a custom sneaker and secure a one-on-one consultation with Chase Shiel, the globally recognised sneaker atelier, for a day of hands-on creativity at Converse’s flagship store in Chadstone, Melbourne. Bring your favourite photo, share your vision, and Fujifilm will imprint your imagination onto sneakers made to strut your story. Best of all, it’s completely free.

“Sneaker culture and photography have a lot in common,” says Chase. “Just like a photo can capture a mood or a moment in time, the sneakers you wear say something about who you are, where you’ve been, and what you’re into. A Converse Chuck Taylor All Star is the ultimate canvas for creativity. People have been customising their Chucks for decades. So, I’m excited to help Aussies put their best foot forward and snap up their creative visions at the Sneaker Studio.”

This pop-up isn’t just about shoes; it’s about embracing the link between sneakers and self-expression. And, it celebrates the launch of Fujifilm’s X-E5, a sleek machined aluminium camera designed to inspire creativity. With its new film simulation dial and personalised access to favourite settings, the X-E5 puts the world in your frame. The Sneaker Studio takes that creative spirit a step further, letting you turn photography into fashion and storytelling into style. You could say it’s a picture-perfect way to put your best foot forward.

“At Fujufilm Australia, we live and breathe creativity. And, we’re constantly exploring new and exciting ways to apply a creative lens to the everyday,” says Leanne Hughes, Head of Marketing at Fujifilm Australia. “We know that when it comes to photography, there are so many ways to channel the craft. Everyone has their own distinct style that is deeply personal to them. Sneaker Studio is the latest way we’re helping Aussies unlock their creative potential. We’re thrilled to offer a new and immersive experience for people to take their visual storytelling to the next step.”

The pop-up is happening for one day only, on 30 August 2025, at Converse Chadstone. But, sneakerheads and photo fanatics alike need to act fast because slots are limited.

Whether you’re a seasoned photographer, a sneaker collector, or someone who loves expressing themselves through style, Sneaker Studio is the ultimate playground for creativity. You’ll walk away with more than just a customised pair of shoes; you’ll carry a snapshot of your story with every step you take. From bold prints to subtle details, each sneaker will frame your imagination and capture your personality.

Sneaker Studio reminds us that fashion is more than what we wear; it’s how we communicate who we are without saying a word. And with Fujifilm and Converse teaming up, your shoes will do all the talking. So grab your favourite photo, bring your ideas to life, and get ready to strut your stuff in sneakers that are as unique as your own style.

The post Sneakerheads and Shutterbugs Step Into Style at Sneaker Studio first appeared on Women Love Tech.

Gamers, get ready to plug in. Turtle Beach, one of the biggest names in gaming audio, has just dropped some seriously exciting news: the upcoming Atlas 200, its very first officially licensed wired gaming headset for PlayStation 5 and PlayStation 4. Landing in Australia on September 19, 2025, the Atlas 200 promises the kind of premium sound and all-day comfort the brand is famous for – without blowing your budget.

At $99.95 RRP, the Atlas 200 is designed as an affordable entry point for players who still want big-league performance. And in true Turtle Beach fashion, it’s not just sticking to one platform. Alongside the PlayStation-specific models, gamers can also pick up multiplatform and PC-exclusive editions, each built for different styles of play but all with the same promise: crisp, immersive audio and lightweight comfort that lasts.

A mash-up of Turtle Beach favourites

So, what makes the Atlas 200 special? Turtle Beach has cherry-picked some of the best features from two of its most-loved headsets – the Atlas Air, a flagship PC headset, and the Recon 200, a wired multiplatform staple. The result is a headset that packs in premium 50mm Nanoclear drivers, reliable wired compatibility, and a comfortable ergonomic fit.

Translation: you’re getting high-quality, spatially optimised sound whether you’re storming through multiplayer maps on PS5, exploring open worlds on PC, or sneaking in a few rounds of mobile gaming on the train. And because it’s wired, there are no battery dramas or sudden drop-outs – just plug in the 3.5mm jack and play.

Built for long-haul play

Comfort has clearly been top of mind too. The Atlas 200 weighs just 280 grams, making it one of the lightest headsets in its class. Add a floating headband, memory foam ear cushions, and Turtle Beach’s ProSpecs glasses-friendly design, and you’ve got the recipe for fatigue-free sessions that go well into the night.

The chat side of things is also sorted. The unidirectional mic keeps your voice clear and can be flipped up to instantly mute when you’re done talking. It’s simple, streamlined, and exactly what you want in the middle of a match.

Different editions for different players

Looks-wise, the PlayStation edition comes in classic black or white, both dressed up with the unmistakable PlayStation blue. Prefer to keep your options open? The multiplatform version opts for sleek black and grey, making it an easy fit with any gaming setup.

PC players, on the other hand, get a few extras. The Atlas 200 PC Edition still sits at $99.95 RRP but comes with a USB audio adapter that unlocks a range of features through Turtle Beach’s Swarm II desktop app. From custom EQ settings to advanced mic controls, it’s a nice bonus for anyone who likes fine-tuning their sound for streaming or competitive play.

A milestone moment for Turtle Beach

The Atlas 200 isn’t just another addition to Turtle Beach’s lineup – it’s the company’s first officially licensed PlayStation headset. That official stamp of approval from Sony is a big deal, and it shows just how seriously Turtle Beach is investing in console players.

CEO Cris Keirn summed it up in the announcement: “By blending some of the best elements of our fan-favourite Atlas and Recon headsets, we’ve created an exceptionally lightweight and comfortable new model that delivers an immersive audio experience.”

And immersive audio is exactly what fans will be expecting. With Turtle Beach’s track record of creating best-selling headsets and accessories, it looks like the Atlas 200 is already shaping up as a strong contender for your next upgrade.

Game, set match

Whether you’re chasing epic single-player soundscapes, needing clear comms with your squad, or just wanting something comfortable enough for long gaming nights, the Atlas 200 looks set to tick the boxes. It’s affordable without cutting corners, stylish without being flashy, and versatile enough to cover both console and PC setups.

Mark your calendars – September 19 is when the Atlas 200 officially launches in Australia. If you’re looking for a headset that brings serious performance without torching your wallet, this one should be on your radar.

The post Turtle Beach Drops Its First Officially Licensed PlayStation Headset first appeared on Women Love Tech.

Ready to plan your next holiday? Alongside, packing three fancy – just in case – frocks that will never leave the suitcase, according to Adyen’s brand-new 2025 Hospitality and Travel Report, Aussies are turning to AI more than ever to book their trips. Forget Lonely Planet! Artificial intelligence is officially the new travel buddy, helping us find destinations, snag last-minute deals, and craft dream itineraries without breaking a sweat.

Here’s the scoop: 28% of Australian travellers now use AI to book holidays — that’s a whopping 73% jump from just last year. And, if you think AI is just for the young tech-savvy crowd, think again. Australian Boomers are leading the charge with a staggering 106% increase year-on-year. Seems like everyone, from Gen Z to grandparents, is embracing a little help from the robots when it comes to packing their bags.

And, the Travel and AI averages are impressive. In fact, 71% of Aussies agree that Artificial Intelligence delivers travel inspiration faster than any other method. And 60% of Boomers say it helps them cut through the noise of endless ads on social media, making the whole planning process way less stressful. Whether you’re plotting a cosy weekend getaway or a globe-trotting adventure, AI’s got your back, making trip planning quicker, easier, and dare we say, more fun.

But, the hospitality industry isn’t just sitting back watching this tech takeover unfold — they’re gearing up for the AI revolution too. Nearly half (47%) of Australian hospitality leaders believe AI-powered search tools will completely change how travellers book their stays in 2025 and beyond. Another 47% reckon personalised automation will redefine the guest experience, meaning your next hotel stay could feel tailor-made just for you thanks to AI magic.

Beyond research, AI is shaking things up all the way through to checkout, helping hotels and booking sites offer dynamic pricing, personalised deals, and super-smooth payments. Plus, with more bookings happening online, AI is playing superhero by spotting and stopping payment fraud in real time – a growing concern with 39% of Australian accommodation providers reporting an increase in fraud attempts.

Now, we all want holiday fun, not holiday fraud, right? That’s why hospitality businesses are leaning into AI not just for convenience but for safety too. “Guests expect every step, from discovery to payment, to be effortless and secure,” says Fisher from Adyen. And that’s exactly what AI is delivering – blending smart personalisation with top-notch security so you can book your trip with peace of mind.

So, what does all this mean for you, the holidaymaker? Basically, whether you’re a tech newbie or an AI aficionado, the future of travel planning looks faster, smarter, and more personalised. Forget endless scrolling and second-guessing; AI is here to inspire, organise, and secure your next adventure – all at the click of a button.

The days of juggling multiple tabs, comparing countless options, and worrying about online payment security are fading. Instead, picture a world where your digital travel assistant knows your preferences, finds the best deals, keeps your details safe, and even spots sneaky fraudsters before they can ruin your plans.

So, next time you start dreaming about your getaway, why not let AI take the reins? From Gen Z globetrotters to savvy Boomers, it’s clear that AI isn’t just a buzzword – it’s the travel companion you didn’t know you needed.

If you want to dive deeper into all the AI travel trends shaking up the industry, you can check out the full Adyen 2025 Hospitality and Travel Report online.

Now, where are you thinking of going next? Maybe AI can help you get there faster than ever before

The post Tech Takes a Trip: Why More Aussies Are Letting AI Plan Their Holiday first appeared on Women Love Tech.

In news that will surprise exactly no one, Aussies are feeling the pinch. From double takes at the grocery store (since when did Tim Tams hit $6) to bills that never seem to end, stretching your dollar is basically an extreme sport these days. But there is a way to snag all the things you actually want without feeling like you’re robbing your own wallet. Enter Amazon Haul, the shiny new corner of the Amazon Shopping app that’s here to make your bank account breathe a little easier. Hundreds of thousands of products, all under $25, are now at your fingertips.

Launching in beta on the Amazon Shopping app, Amazon Haul brings hundreds of thousands of products to Australian customers, all priced under $25. It makes online shopping a little more playful, a little more convenient, and a whole lot more affordable, whether you’re browsing fashion, beauty, homewares, or pet supplies. And, for those who like a good deal, the timing couldn’t be better: for a limited period following launch, everything on Haul is available at a whopping 60% off, meaning hundreds of thousands of items are now under $10.

The fun doesn’t stop at low prices. Amazon Haul has its own shopping experience within the Amazon app. Think of it as a boutique within your usual marketplace: separate search, basket, and checkout features, all designed to make browsing easy and enjoyable. Orders typically arrive in two weeks or less, so your haul won’t feel like it’s in an endless limbo somewhere between the warehouse and your front door.

But, it’s not just about snapping up a bargain; it’s about variety, too. Amazon Haul covers a range of categories that matter to Aussie shoppers: fashion, beauty, lifestyle, homewares, and even pet supplies. Whether you’re on the hunt for a chic new top, a quirky home accessory, or treats for your furry friend, Haul has you covered. And with Australians increasingly looking to stretch their budgets without compromising on quality, this launch couldn’t be timelier.

To sweeten the deal further, Haul offers extra savings on bigger orders. For a limited time, customers can enjoy an additional 5% off orders over $65 and 10% off orders over $100, stacked on top of already-low prices. Delivery is just as friendly on the wallet: free for orders over $40, or a standard $11.99 for smaller hauls. And, if you have second thoughts about an item, Amazon’s return policy gives you 15 days to change your mind, provided the conditions are met.

Amit Mahto, Australia Country Manager of Amazon Marketplace, revealed that “Since launching Amazon in Australia in 2017, we have been constantly innovating to provide competitive prices and the best possible shopping experience for our customers. And this is another way we can deliver value for Australians on a wide selection of products. Australians seek out value and convenience when they shop online, and we’re excited to provide more options through the shopping app they already know and love.”

The quality you’ve come to expect from Amazon isn’t compromised, either. (Gotta love an Amazon legging!) Products on Haul undergo quality checks and controls, so customers can feel confident in every purchase. This isn’t a clearance corner of random odds and ends – it’s a curated collection of products meant to delight, surprise, and most importantly, be useful.

Right now, Amazon Haul is rolling out in beta, so select customers will see it when they next update their Amazon Shopping app. Finding it is easy: just search “Haul” in the search bar, or navigate from the main menu icon. Over the coming days, Haul will be available to all Australian shoppers, opening the door to hundreds of thousands of must-haves—all under $25.

So, while chocolate-coated biscuits may still be on the special section of your grocery shoping list, Amazon Haul is an otherwise excellent antidote to the cost-of-living crunch. It lets you grab what you need (and maybe a little of what you want), without making your wallet wince. Fashion, homewares, beauty, lifestyle items – even treats for your pets – are now just a few taps away, affordable, convenient, and ready to make your everyday a little more fun.

The post Cost of Living Crisis? Don’t Know Her. Here’s How to Score Hundreds of Thousands of Must-Haves For Less Than $25 first appeared on Women Love Tech.

If you have ever found yourself drowning in the sea of snaps of guys holding up fish. Or, opening with the classic “WYD?” on dating apps, you’re not alone. Modern dating can sometimes feel like a broken record – same old tune, same old dance. But here’s the tea: Hinge just dropped a fresh new twist to turn those stale chats into something genuinely meaningful. And, it’s got the magic touch of none other than Esther Perel, the world-renowned psychotherapist and relationship guru.

From Small Talk to Real Talk

Dating profiles can often feel like a highlight reel of surface-level info – “I love hiking, Netflix binges and brunch.” Sure, that’s fine, but it’s not exactly lighting the fire for a deep connection, is it? Enter Hinge’s new “Your World” prompts, co-created with Esther Perel, designed to break the ice and bust the cliches. These aren’t your run-of-the-mill conversation starters. They’re crafted to invite curiosity, spark playfulness and get daters out of their scripted lines. Because, no one wants to be stuck in a dating Groundhog Day – same conversations, different day.

Meet Esther Perel: The Relationship Whisperer

Esther Perel is basically the Yoda of modern love. With her decades of experience, bestselling books and TED Talks watched by millions, she knows a thing or two about what makes relationships tick (or not). Instead of handing out quick-fix dating hacks, Esther offers invitations – gentle nudges to ditch the script and embrace stories. Because stories are the secret sauce to real connection; they’re bridges that show us who someone really is beyond the polished profile pic.

As Esther puts it, “Start with a few new questions or stories, and allow the date to unfold without so much expectation.” Sounds like a breath of fresh air, right?

Your World Prompts: The New Playbook for Dating

Hinge’s new prompts ask you to peel back the curtain and share what really makes you tick. Here are a few gems that will get your match leaning in, rather than scrolling on by:

• “In my friend group, I’m the one who…” – Show off your role in your social circle. Are you the joker? The planner? The shoulder to cry on?
• “Before we meet, you should listen to…” – Drop a track or podcast that’s close to your heart. It’s a clever way to set the vibe before you even say hello IRL.
• “It’s not a vacation unless…” – Reveal your idea of a true getaway and see if your match’s fun meter aligns with yours.

These prompts help daters share more than just facts – they reveal worlds. And in the world of online dating, that’s pure gold.

Why Prompts Matter: It’s Not Just Small Talk

Hinge was the pioneer in adding prompts to dating profiles – and it turns out, they work. According to their research, likes on text prompts are 47% more likely to lead to a date than likes on photos. Translation? People are craving substance over just a pretty face.

Moe Ari Brown, Hinge’s Love and Connection expert, puts it best: “Ask soulful questions instead of the typical interview questions. Pay attention to the energy. Mirror what you want to experience.” Basically, be present, be curious and be real.

Ditch the Script and Light the Spark

We all know someone who rehearses every word before a date, right? Esther tells the story of a guy who literally scripted his conversations – only to miss out on actually connecting with his date. The solution? Toss the script and set fire to those expectations. Let your conversations flow naturally, whether on the app or over a latte.

Because here’s the bottom line: no matter how many swipes you do, or how many likes you rack up, the magic happens when two people meet in real life and get to know each other beyond the screen.

Ready to Get Off the App and Into Something Real?

Hinge’s mission is crystal clear: design an app to be deleted. That means helping you find that authentic connection that leads to dates and hopefully something lasting. With Esther Perel’s wisdom folded into these new “Your World” prompts, the days of dating by rote are numbered.

The post Swipe Right on Real Talk: Hinge and Esther Perel Want You to Have Better Online Dating Conversations first appeared on Women Love Tech.

Siquijor, Philippines — After nearly 18 years of grassroots advocacy, the Municipality of Enrique Villanueva has officially established the Bitaug Marine Protected Area (MPA) — now the largest MPA in Siquijor. Covering 149.46 hectares (about 370 acres), the new protected zone will safeguard climate-resilient coral reefs, lush seagrass meadows, thriving turtle habitats, and critical ecosystems for sharks and rays.

Protecting Siquijor’s Marine Biodiversity

The newly declared Bitaug MPA is home to:

• Coral reefs that are naturally resilient to climate change
• Seagrass meadows that support marine life and store carbon
• Sea turtle nesting and feeding grounds
• Commercially important fish species essential for local livelihoods
• Sharks and rays, which now have explicit legal protection within the MPA

A key feature of the new rules is the ban on catching sharks and rays, except for research purposes — making Bitaug part of a global network of MPAs providing targeted protection for these vulnerable species.

“This is not just the launch of a protected site — it’s a powerful step toward environmental sustainability, coastal resilience, and community empowerment,” said Ms. Peachy Baquilta, Assistant Extension Director at Siquijor State College.

18 Years of Community Advocacy

The creation of the Bitaug MPA is the result of persistent local leadership. The Bitaug Fisherfolk Association (BitFA) began advocating for marine protection in 2007. Today, BitFA will co-manage the area with the local government, overseeing enforcement, eco-tourism operations, and environmental education.

Partnership support comes from Siquijor State College, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), and WCS Philippines.

“This is the beginning of what we’ve been dreaming of for almost eighteen years,” said Othello Manos, President of BitFA.

Sustainable Tourism and Revenue Sharing

Unlike many traditional MPAs, Bitaug will be managed under a revenue-sharing model. Funds from eco-tourism activities such as snorkeling and diving will be reinvested into:

• Marine conservation projects
• Community development initiatives
• Education and awareness programs

This ensures that both the environment and the local economy benefit from the MPA’s success.

“Our coral reefs, seagrass beds, and mangroves are interconnected. They must be protected together if we truly want to secure our environment and our future,” said Kristine Kate Lim, Country Director for WCS Philippines.

A Model for Other Coastal Communities

The Bitaug MPA now serves as a blueprint for community-led marine conservation in the Philippines. Its success is built on:

• Long-term grassroots advocacy
• Participatory planning and stakeholder consultations
• Partnerships between communities, government agencies, and NGOs
• Innovative funding models that sustain conservation efforts

WCS Philippines and its partners acknowledge the support of the Bloomberg Ocean Initiative, European Union (via KfW Development Bank), Trafigura Foundation, Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisors, and the WCS 30×30 Ocean Accelerator — among other private donors.

Why the Bitaug MPA Matters

As the largest marine protected area in Siquijor, the Bitaug MPA is more than just a boundary on a map. It is:

• A safeguard for Siquijor’s unique marine biodiversity
• A boost to local eco-tourism and sustainable livelihoods
• A symbol of what persistent community action can achieve

With its blend of environmental protection, economic opportunity, and community leadership, the Bitaug MPA offers hope for the future of ocean health in the Philippines and beyond.

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