Gadgets
What to Expect at Mobile World Congress 2017?
Mobile World Congress, Barcelona’s massive mobile devices show is a few weeks away and the rumour mills are hard at work. Here’s what to expect from the event.
Sony at MWC 2017
Sony is reportedly launching follow-ups to the devices we saw last year – the Xperia X and Xperia XA. Whether the number 2 will be tagged on the end or new names created remains to be seen. However, you can expect features such as waterproofing and excellent cameras.
A few news outlets have reported that Sony will announce five devices at the show. According to report, two of them are set to feature 5.5-inch screens and Snapdragon 835 processors, with one set to have a 4K screen and 6GB of RAM.
We hope the company will also announce a successor to the flagship Xperia XZ and we are also hoping for the Xperia Z6. In addition, we would really like to see Sony reveal the Xperia Z5 or Z6 Tablet and the Sony Smartwatch 4.
Samsung at MWC 2017
While the company usually reveals a new flagship in Barcelona every year, this time around, Samsung will not be announcing the Galaxy S8 at MWC. It’s unclear when it will arrive but most are tipping April.
So what will Samsung launch at MWC 2017? Well you can bet that it will have a range of products on show with possible devices including the Galaxy Tab S3 and Galaxy TabPro S2 – both tablets but new wearables are always a possibility despite the recent Gear S3.
In terms of phones, Samsung has already introduced the new Galaxy A range for 2017 a few weeks ago in the region, but some rumours suggest that the company might the wraps off the Galaxy Note 8 at MWC, though we think it’s a long shot.
LG at MWC 2017
LG might show off its new G6 flagship smartphone, which was leaked recently. If the leaked information is correct, it looks like LG will be ditching the modular design of the LG G5 and opting for a sleek design with tiny bezels.
Interestingly the phone will also have, we think, a 5.7-inch display with an unusual 18:9 (2:1) aspect ratio. The company is also rumoured to launch new Android Wear smartwatches in partnership with Google – so we’re keen to see them in Barcelona.
HTC at MWC 2017
HTC recently announced its new U series of smartphones with the launch of the U Ultra and U Play. The company also confirmed that these were not the company’s new flagships. So, we think the company might take the wraps off the new HTC 11 then, if that’s what it is even called.
Huawei at MWC 2017
Many eyes, including ours, will be on Huawei and its 2017 flagship phone. It has a press conference lined up for 26 February and we expect it to be launching the Huawei P10 which will go head to head with possibly the LG G6 and Samsung Galaxy S8.
The firm could also announce other products and we wouldn’t be too surprised to see a new tablet or two and hopefully a Huawei Watch 2 with Android Wear 2.0. According to a leak though, the new watch is expected to launch in February and will come packed with an optional LTE connectivity feature.
Xiaomi, Motorola, Nokia, and Microsoft
At MWC this year, you can expect plenty more phones. Both Motorola (Lenovo) and Nokia have sent out invites so that’s a decent bet. The former is tipped to launch the Moto G5 and Nokia might release a P1 phone with a Snapdragon 835 and a tablet.
As for Microsoft, we might finally get to meet the long-rumoured Microsoft Surface Phone. Xiaomi meanwhile is expected to launch Mi 6.
Review Central will be at Mobile World Congress 2017. So stay tuned as we bring the latest updates, live from the floor.

Gadgets
Toshiba Canvio Flex: A Multi-Device Hard Drive for Storing and Sharing Special Memories

On 14 February we celebrate Valentine’s Day and Toshiba Electronics Europe GmbH proposes to surprise your partner with a practical and stylish gift: the Canvio Flex, a multi-device hard drive for storing and sharing special memories. Coinciding with the release of 2025, this portable external storage drive in 2.5-inch form factor has a new design and comes in a simple and elegant silver finish, making it a functional and beautiful gift.
Flexibility and compatibility are the distinguishing features of the Canvio Flex. Even if you and your partner use different devices (Android or iOS smartphones, Mac, PC or different tablets) – with the Canvio Flex you can use just one hard drive to save and share your special moments. The drive can connect directly to these different devices via the included USB Type-C or Type-A cable without reformatting.
This also makes the Canvio Flex a long-term companion because even if you change your devices, the Canvio Flex will continue to connect to any of them. Especially the direct connectivity to your smartphone and the ability to make backups make the Canvio Flex quite handy, as many photos and videos are nowadays taken with your mobile phone, as shown in this video.
Instead of expanding the capacity of your cloud storage service, you can take the Canvio Flex with you for quick and easy backups directly from your smartphone, desktop, laptop or tablet, wherever you are, without an internet connection, so you’ll always have all your special memories – whether they’re text files, music, photos or videos – safe and secure for quick and easy sharing. With its plug-and-play philosophy and USB3.2 Gen 1 interface, the Canvio Flex offers fast data transfer speeds of up to 5Gbps.
More information on the Canvio Flex can be accessed by visiting: https://www.toshiba-storage.com/products/canvio-flex/
– Partner Content
Gadgets
HONOR Intros PORSCHE DESIGN HONOR Magic7 RSR

HONOR announced the launch of their latest ultra-premium flagship smartphone in the UAE. The PORSCHE DESIGN HONOR Magic7 RSR marks the third collaboration between the global technology brand HONOR and the exclusive lifestyle brand Porsche Design. The new device merges premium sports car inspired design with state-of-the-art technology, again showcasing a powerful collaboration meticulously crafting a groundbreaking product. The PORSCHE DESIGN HONOR Magic7 RSR represents a leap forward in AI-enabled smartphone technology, seamlessly integrating AI into the user experience by enhancing imaging, display, performance, and system interactions, creating a personalized smart platform that adapts and improves with use. The official unveiling took place at LEAP 2025 (Riyadh, KSA), where HONOR made a remarkable impact under the theme “LEAP into HONOR AI World” by unveiling – the PORSCHE DESIGN HONOR Magic7 RSR, setting a new standard in the premium smartphone market in the GCC.
The PORSCHE DESIGN HONOR Magic7 RSR seamlessly blends Porsche Design’s iconic sporty aesthetics with exceptional quality, functionality, and usability. Ferdinand Alexander Porsche, the creator of the legendary sports car 911 and founder of Porsche Design once described his design approach in the following way: “As little design as possible, as much design as necessary.” Drawing from F. A. Porsche’s philosophy of simplicity and sophistication, the PORSCHE DESIGN HONOR Magic7 RSR incorporates the HONOR Magic7’s symmetrical camera module while integrating the latest sports car design, a celebration of superior dynamics and elegance. This fusion of innovation and heritage creates a unique appeal, with a powerful design highlighted by a distinctive central ridge reminiscent of sleek hood lines featured on many Porsche sports cars. This feature enhances both visual appeal and ergonomics, providing a comfortable and secure grip.
The phone incorporates Porsche’s signature design elements with a hexagonal camera module inspired by high-performance components. The aerodynamic aesthetics of the Taycan Turbo S are seamlessly integrated, and the symmetrical arrangement of four imaging units (3 cameras and 1 graphic element) resemble sports car headlights, protected by 3D glass echoing Porsche’s windshield curves. The PORSCHE DESIGN HONOR Magic7 RSR replicates the smooth, refined surface of a sports car, offering a sensory feast of visual and tactile delight.
The PORSCHE DESIGN HONOR Magic7 RSR features the new cutting-edge MagicOS 9.0. This industry-first, personalized all-scenario AI operating system is equipped with intelligent features that are thoughtfully engineered to meet the varied needs of users, spanning from everyday smartphone operation, entertainment, communication, photo editing, and professional tasks. Introducing Magic Portal, users can conveniently access essential information and services through the upgraded circle and access capability, streamlining smartphone interactions with a simple circle and tap gesture. The MagicOS 9.0 also integrates AI-powered Real-time Transcript, AI Summary, AI Minutes and AI Format features into HONOR Notes, enhancing meeting efficiency for business users. Furthermore, it provides AI Eraser and AI Cutout for an enhanced photo-editing experience. The PORSCHE DESIGN HONOR Magic7 RSR now comes with the Google Gemini app pre-installed. This AI assistant from Google can help users enhance ideas, learn in new ways, write emails, plan events and more.
The PORSCHE DESIGN HONOR Magic7 RSR boasts the pioneering AI HONOR Image Engine, the industry’s first on-device plus cloud large model empowered mobile imaging system. It delivers a transformative photography experience from image capture to editing. Leveraging the power of large models, the device elevates image precision across all photography needs including portraits, snapshots, or telephoto images. This device showcases a range of AI-driven photography tools, including All-scenario Harcourt Portrait, AI Enhanced Portrait, AI Super Zoom for Scenery Capture, Stage Mode, AI Motion Sensing Capture, and HD Super Burst. Users can take stunning photos through AI processing, capturing every moment with remarkable clarity and detail.
With a triple rear camera setup that includes a 50MP Super Dynamic Falcon Main Camera, a 200MP Ultra-sensitive Telephoto Camera, and a 50MP Wide Camera, the device is a perfect tool for photography enthusiasts seeking a professional-like shooting experience. Equipped with an advanced 1/1.4″ telephoto sensor and the industry’s largest f/1.88 telephoto aperture, the telephoto camera rivals the performance of professional telephoto lenses. The LiDAR Matrix Autofocus System, featuring 1200 Points LiDAR Matrix, enhances focusing accuracy, speed, and tracking range, ensuring sharp and clear shots of moving subjects. With a dual electromagnetic focus actuator, the focus capability is enhanced significantly.
The PORSCHE DESIGN HONOR Magic7 RSR is equipped with the Natural Light HONOR AI Eye Comfort Display, which simulates natural light characteristics and is certified by TÜV Rheinland Full Care Display 4.0, TÜV Rheinland Circular Polarization, and TÜV Rheinland Flicker-Free, setting a new standard in user eye health protection. Providing ultimate protection to the device, the smartphone incorporates the HONOR Anti-scratch NanoCrystal Shield and is certified with IP68 and IP69 ratings for dust and water resistance withstanding everyday scratches and shocks. The device also supports rapid charging options with 100W Wired and 80W Wireless HONOR SuperCharge, by incorporating a 5850mAh Third-generation Silicon-carbon Battery that delivers reliable power even in low temperatures.
Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite Mobile Platform, Qualcomm’s most powerful mobile system-on-a-chip, the device ensures smooth gaming and multitasking with stunning graphics and efficient battery usage. The HONOR Surround Subwoofer, a stereo speaker with an integrated ultra-large sound cavity and spatial audio, offers deep bass and an immersive audio experience. The PORSCHE DESIGN HONOR Magic7 RSR features a unique user interface infused with elements inspired by sports cars. Enhancing the user experience, the smartphone includes a special premium phone case that provides enhanced durability. With its impressive features, the PORSCHE DESIGN HONOR Magic7 RSR is an ideal companion for everyday life, blending style, performance, and durability seamlessly.
The luxury flagship device is available in two distinct Original Porsche exterior colors: the classic Agate Grey, a sporty yet elegant hue, and the brand-new color Provence, a modern purple hue that adds a touch of flamboyance to the over-all clean and functional design. The UAE consumers can now subscribe online to be among the first to experience the all-new PORSCHE DESIGN HONOR Magic7 RSR.
Accessories
Apple’s Beats Unveils Powerbeats Pro 2 with Heart-Rate Monitoring

Apple Inc.’s Beats division has unveiled the long-awaited Powerbeats Pro 2, which features noise cancellation, a heart-rate monitor, and a revamped design aimed at athletes. This new model incorporates capabilities seen in Apple’s AirPods, such as transparency mode for better external noise awareness and the H2 chip for enhanced sound quality. Additionally, it offers improved spatial audio for a 3D listening experience and comes with a smaller, wireless charging case.
The heart-rate monitor is a notable first for Apple-designed earbuds, expanding the company’s health-related features, and utilizes technology found in the Apple Watch. Despite a slow holiday season for Apple’s wearables business—with sales in the division falling nearly 2% to about $11.8 billion—the introduction of these new earbuds is anticipated to drive interest and sales.
Priced at $250, the same as the previous model, the new Powerbeats Pro 2 will be available in black, orange, purple, and a color called quicksand. This price point matches the AirPods Pro 2, although the Powerbeats may be more appealing to athletes due to their secure ear hooks.
Apple Vice President Oliver Schusser, who oversees Beats as well as the company’s sports, TV+, and music initiatives, hailed the new Powerbeats as “the most impressive product in Beats’ history.” Acquired by Apple in 2014 for $3 billion, Beats remains the company’s largest acquisition to date.
The heart-rate monitor will be compatible with fitness apps like Peloton, Nike Run Club, Ladder, and Slopes, with data integration into the Apple Health app. The earbuds will also be compatible with Android devices. Apple is reportedly working on AirPods with heart-rate monitoring, though they are still many months away from release.
In terms of battery life, the Powerbeats Pro 2 holds an advantage over AirPods, with 10 hours of usage on their own and 45 hours with the charging case, compared to six hours for AirPods alone and up to 30 hours with the case. However, AirPods continue to offer unique features, such as a new hearing aid functionality.
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