Lenovo has announced the UAE arrival of the Lenovo Yoga Slim 7i Aura Edition (15″,9). Launched at an exclusive event on November 28th at Immersee Dubai in The Sustainable City, the Yoga Slim 7i Aura Edition is an Intel Evo Edition Copilot+ PC powered by Intel Core Ultra processors (Series 2), the product of a multi-year collaboration with Intel. This new product promises to revolutionize the way consumers create, ideate, and produce, offering a seamless blend of performance and user-centric features.

Commenting on the regional launch, Mohammed Hilili, General Manager, Lenovo Intelligent Devices Group, Gulf, said, “The Lenovo Yoga Slim 7i Aura Edition truly embodies our commitment to ‘Smarter Technology for All. We have collaborated closely with Intel to deliver a premium laptop experience, from its sleek design and powerful Intel Core Ultra processors to the intuitive AI features of the Lenovo Aura Edition. Features like Smart Modes, Attention Mode, and Smart Share empower users to personalise their workflow and boost productivity. We are confident the Yoga Slim 7i Aura Edition will be the perfect companion for anyone seeking a blend of performance, innovation, and style in today’s fast-paced digital world.”

Lenovo Aura Edition is the result of a multi-year collaboration with Intel that offers users the ultimate in premium build, design, and innovative technologies. The Lenovo Yoga Slim 7i Aura Edition (15″, 9) is the epitome of premium build and innovative technology, offering a unique blend of features tailored to enhance the user experience:

1. Smart Modes: Lenovo Aura Edition laptops offer users higher control over PC customisability by using Smart Modes that adapt on-the-fly to user needs, whether it’s work, relaxation, creating, or more. The Smart Modes dynamically adjust performance and system settings, providing optimal conditions for any activity.
2. Attention Mode: When productivity is paramount, Attention Mode allows users to specifically block distracting websites so they can focus on the task at hand.
3. Wellness Features: Includes eye wellness and posture warning features that fight off fatigue and remind users to take breaks, helping keep eye health and posture at the top of their minds when they are in the zone.
4. Collaboration Tools: A suite of settings designed to enhance video call experiences, including low light enhancement, virtual presenter, and background blur, that increase clarity and comfort when working together with others.
5. Shield Mode: Focuses on safeguarding privacy with features like privacy alerts, privacy guard, and auto prompt VPN to help ensure safety and security when working with sensitive information.

Finally, when computing away from a power outlet, battery life is paramount. Users have rapid access to power settings to help optimize battery life and performance, maximizing the time between charges.

1. Smart Share: Enables seamless AI-driven image sharing between smartphones and laptops. Users can effortlessly tap a supported smartphone on the screen’s edge, prompting the laptop to automatically launch the Smart Share app on both devices, allowing for a simple drag-and-drop transfer of recent photos. The feature supports both Android and IOS platforms.
2. Smart Care: Offers real-time support and troubleshooting from real-life Lenovo technicians, accessible both via PC and phone. Via Lenovo’s Premium Care Service, users can live chat or call support for assistance that also offers concierge-level support.

With Lenovo Aura Edition, Lenovo sought to provide more than just technical innovation; by focusing on the intersection of humans and technology, Lenovo Aura Edition laptops not only make PC computing more productive and efficient but also more comfortable and enjoyable. In addition to Lenovo Aura Edition features, the Lenovo Yoga Slim 7i Aura Edition (15”, 9) is an Intel Evo Edition laptop powered by Intel Core Ultra processors (Series 2), with an 8-core hybrid processor and high-performance graphics (GPU) for smooth and efficient performance during demanding tasks.

The neural processing unit (NPU) delivers more than 45 TOPS and accelerates AI-driven applications for creators who require AI-assisted computing power. The laptop’s up to 32GB of 8533MHz RAM allows users to multitask effortlessly, while up to 1TB of SSD storage provides ample space for larger files and fast data access. Designed for extended creative sessions, the 70WHr battery ensures that users can work on their projects in between charges.

Connectivity is seamless with Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4, allowing for fast and stable wireless connections. Multiple ports, including Thunderbolt 4, provide versatile options for connecting peripherals, transferring data quickly, and expanding the laptop’s capabilities. These features make the Yoga Slim 7i Aura Edition an exceptional choice for users who demand high performance, stunning visuals, and reliable connectivity in their creative endeavours.

The laptop is also certified carbon neutral, and like all Lenovo Yoga laptops, comes with a complimentary 2-month membership to Adobe Creative Cloud. The Lenovo Yoga Slim 7i Aura Edition (15”, 9) is expected to be available starting December at AED 5899.

The Microsoft Surface Laptop 7th Edition is a testament to Microsoft’s commitment to crafting premium laptops that blend style with substance. This latest iteration builds upon the strengths of its predecessors, offering a sleek design, powerful performance, and a user-friendly experience.

Design and Build Quality
The Surface Laptop 7th Edition impresses with its minimalist yet sophisticated design. Wrapped in a sleek aluminium chassis, this laptop is both lightweight and sturdy, offering a premium feel that differentiates it from the competition. Its clean lines and smooth curves elevate its aesthetic appeal, making it a stylish addition to any professional environment.

The build quality is top-notch; Microsoft has meticulously crafted the laptop to be both beautiful and durable. The hinge mechanism is robust, ensuring the lid opens and closes smoothly without wobbling. Overall, the laptop feels solid with no flexing or creaking even under pressure.

The finish on the Surface Laptop 7th Edition is exceptional. The anodised aluminium surface resists scratches and fingerprints, keeping the laptop looking pristine over time. The matte finish adds sophistication, giving it an elegant, professional appearance. Smooth edges and seamless transitions between parts showcase the high-quality craftsmanship involved in its design.

Display
The display is a highlight of the Surface Laptop 7th Edition. Featuring a 15-inch touchscreen PixelSense Flow Display with a resolution of 2304-by-1536 pixels, it delivers vibrant colours and sharp details. You get a pixel density of 201-PPI, an aspect ratio of 3:2, a contrast ratio of 1400:1, and support for Dolby Vision IQ. The display is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 5.

The 120Hz refresh rate enhances smooth scrolling and overall visual quality, whether you’re watching videos, browsing, or working on documents. Impressive colour accuracy and brightness levels make it ideal for professional photo and video editing. The thin bezels also contribute to a more immersive viewing experience, maximizing screen real estate.

Keyboard and Touchpad
Typing on the Surface Laptop 7th Edition is enjoyable. The keyboard has well-spaced keys with a comfortable travel distance, ensuring a responsive and tactile typing experience. The backlit keys make it easy to type in low-light conditions. However, some users may find the keyboard a bit shallow, which might take some getting used to.

The touchpad is also impressive. It’s large, smooth, and highly responsive, allowing for precise cursor control and multi-touch gestures. The soft surface of the touchpad enhances comfort, whether you’re scrolling through documents or navigating applications.

Internal Specifications
The Surface Laptop 7th Edition features the Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite processor, renowned for its high performance and efficiency. It comes with up to 32GB of RAM and up to 1TB of SSD storage, offering plenty of memory and storage capacity for the most demanding tasks. Our review unit came with 512GB of onboard SSD storage. The powerful specifications enable smooth multitasking, fast application loading, and efficient power use, making it perfect for both work and entertainment.

Camera
The Surface Laptop 7th Edition features a Full HD front-facing Surface Studio Camera, perfect for video calls and conferences. The 1080p camera delivers clear and sharp images, even in low-light conditions. With Windows Studio Effects, you get automatic framing, creative filters such as illustrated, animated, and watercolour, eye contact adjustments, a teleprompter mode, portrait blur, and portrait lighting.

These enhancements make it ideal for professional use. The built-in microphones provide excellent audio quality, ensuring your voice is heard clearly during calls. Additionally, the laptop includes Windows Hello face authentication, adding a layer of security and convenience.

Connectivity
The Surface Laptop 7th Edition features a variety of ports, including two USB-C / USB4 ports that support charging, data transfer, DisplayPort 2.1, and are compatible with the Surface Thunderbolt 4 Dock and other accessories. It also supports fast charging with a minimum 65W power supply via Surface Connect or USB-C. Additionally, it includes a USB-A 3.1 port, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and a Surface Connect port. While this covers many basic needs, some professionals might miss additional USB-C ports and an SD card slot.

Operating System
The Surface Laptop 7th Edition is powered by Windows 11 Pro, delivering a seamless and intuitive user experience. Windows 11 introduces a range of new features and enhancements such as Snap Layouts, virtual desktops, and a revamped Start menu, all aimed at boosting productivity. The OS is optimised for both touch and traditional inputs, ensuring versatility and ease of use. Integration with Microsoft services such as OneDrive and Office 365 enhances productivity, creating a unified ecosystem for both work and personal use.

AI Features
A standout feature of the Surface Laptop 7th Edition is its AI capabilities. It comes with Microsoft Copilot+ AI, which offers a range of productivity enhancements. These include intelligent suggestions, automated tasks, and personalised recommendations, all designed to streamline your workflow and boost efficiency. The AI can assist with tasks such as managing your schedule and providing context-aware insights, making the laptop an invaluable tool for professionals.

Performance
In terms of performance, the Surface Laptop 7th Edition shines in both everyday tasks and more demanding applications. Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite processor and equipped with up to 32GB of RAM and fast SSD storage, this laptop handles multitasking, video editing, and even light gaming effortlessly. Applications load swiftly, and the system stays responsive, even with multiple programs running simultaneously. The cooling system is efficient, maintaining optimal temperatures without producing excessive noise.

Battery Life
Battery life is a major advantage of the Surface Laptop 7th Edition. It delivers up to 20 hours on a single charge, making it perfect for long workdays and travel. The efficient power management of the Snapdragon X Elite processor enhances this impressive battery performance. Plus, the laptop supports fast charging, enabling you to quickly recharge the battery when necessary.

Verdict
The Microsoft Surface Laptop 7th Edition is a well-rounded ultrabook that shines in design, performance, and battery life. Its sleek design, sturdy build, and premium finish make it an appealing choice for professionals. The laptop’s robust internal specifications, vibrant display, and comfortable keyboard and touchpad ensure top-notch performance across various scenarios.

While it has minor drawbacks, such as limited port selection and the absence of an OLED display option, these are overshadowed by its many strengths. The AI features enhance productivity, making this laptop an excellent tool for those who seek the best in their devices. Whether you’re a professional, student, or casual user, the Surface Laptop 7th Edition is a reliable and stylish option. Its blend of advanced technology and thoughtful design ranks it among the best ultrabooks available today.

Price: AED 8699

The HP EliteBook Ultra G1q is a sleek, lightweight laptop designed for business professionals who prioritise portability and battery life. Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite (X1E78100) chip, it offers impressive performance for everyday tasks and excellent battery endurance.

Design and Build Quality
The EliteBook Ultra G1q boasts a premium aluminium chassis that feels sturdy and well-constructed. Its thin and lightweight design, weighing just under 1.3 kg, makes it easy to carry around all day. The laptop’s 14-inch touch display has a 2.2K resolution, offering sharp visuals and good colour accuracy. While the 60Hz refresh rate might not be ideal for gamers or video editors, it’s perfectly adequate for most productivity tasks.

Hardware
As mentioned earlier, the EliteBook Ultra G1q comes packed with a Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite (X1E78100) chip and a Qualcomm Hexagon NPU. Graphics is handled by the Qualcomm Adreno GPU and the laptop runs Windows 11 Pro. You also get 16 GB of LPDDR5x RAM and up to 1TB of PCIe Gen4 NVMe TLC M.2 SSD storage.

In terms of connectivity, you get one USB Type-C 40Gbps port, one USB Type-C 10Gbps port, one USB Type-A 5Gbps port, and one stereo headphone/microphone combo jack. When it comes to audio, you get dual speakers with discrete amplifiers which are powered by Audio by Poly Studio, and integrated dual array microphones.

Performance
The Snapdragon X Elite chip, built on the ARM architecture, delivers snappy performance for everyday tasks such as browsing the web, video conferencing, and running productivity apps. However, some Windows applications might not be fully optimised for ARM, leading to occasional compatibility issues or performance hiccups. The laptop’s 16GB of LPDDR5 RAM and 1TB of SSD storage provide ample space for your files and apps.

As an AI PC, the HP EliteBook Ultra G1q offers features to boost productivity and collaboration. Its Hexagon NPU enables the local running of AI applications, reducing latency and improving performance. Additionally, the Poly Camera Pro provides advanced video conferencing capabilities, including auto-framing, background blur, and virtual backgrounds.

Battery Life
One of the standout features of the EliteBook Ultra G1q is its exceptional battery life. With its 59Wh battery, the laptop can easily last for over 12 hours on a single charge, making it ideal for long workdays or travel. The included 65W USB-C charger provides fast charging, bringing the battery from 0 to 100% in about two hours.

Verdict
The HP EliteBook Ultra 14-inch G1q Notebook AI PC is a powerful and efficient laptop that excels in performance, battery life, and connectivity. Its advanced features and AI capabilities make it an ideal choice for professionals seeking a reliable and versatile device for their work.

Price: $1,699.99 onwards