The long wait is over! The first laptops featuring Copilot+ and Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X Elite processors are here, and we got our hands on the ASUS Vivobook S 15 to put it through its paces. This is an important review for two reasons: it’s the first Snapdragon X Elite device we’ve comprehensively tested, and it’s a real-world example of the Copilot+ experience.

Hardware
The ASUS Vivobook S 15 is the first ASUS laptop that comes packed with Qualcomm’s latest powerhouse, the Snapdragon X Elite processor. Under the hood, you’ll find a speedy 12-core Snapdragon X Elite (X1E78100) clocked at 3.42GHz, working in tandem with a generous 32GB of RAM and a spacious 1TB PCIe 4.0 SSD for storage.

The Vivobook S 15 also features a stunning 15.6-inch 3K OLED panel with a high resolution of 2880 x 1620 pixels and a smooth 120Hz refresh rate. Thin bezels frame the display, maximising screen real estate. Moving down, the laptop offers a full-sized, RGB-backlit keyboard with a dedicated number pad for added functionality. A large touchpad sits slightly off-centre, maintaining alignment with the keyboard for a comfortable typing experience.

For connectivity, the Vivobook S 15 boasts a healthy selection of ports. On the left edge, you’ll find two USB4 Type-C ports, a full-sized HDMI 2.1 port, a microSD card reader, and a 3.5mm headphone jack. The right edge features two USB-A 3.2 Gen 1 ports, for maximum connectivity.

Design
The ASUS Vivobook S 15 strikes a balance between affordability and aesthetics. Encased in magnesium alloy, it feels sturdy while remaining pleasantly cool to the touch. The sleek profile, measuring just 0.63 inches at its thickest point, makes it a breeze to slip into a bag. For those who prioritise a number pad, the Vivobook S 15 comes with a Num Pad, where the essential number keys are still present for quick data entry.

Another factor that makes the Vivobook S 15 awesome, is its weight. Clocking in at a mere 1.42kgs, this 15.6-inch laptop is a dream for travellers. One-handed portability is a reality, making it a fantastic companion for those on the go.

Copilot+
One of the major draws of Copilot+ PCs is their exclusive feature set. These features leverage the on-device processing power of Qualcomm’s new Hexagon NPU to deliver innovative experiences. Here’s a breakdown of some highlights:

• Real-time caption translation: Break down language barriers on the fly with live caption translation, perfect for video calls or multilingual content.
• Enhanced Windows Studio Effects: Take your video conferencing game to the next level with Copilot+ optimised Windows Studio Effects.
• Co-creation in Paint: Take your creativity to a whole new level with collaborative features in Paint, experiencing a more interactive artistic experience.
• Image generation in Photos: Imagine describing your dream vacation photo and having it come to life within seconds! Photos leverages the NPU to generate images based on your prompts, though some restrictions might apply.

However, it’s important to note a slight delay for the flagship Copilot+ feature – Recall. Security concerns have caused a postponement, with Windows Recall currently available only as a “Preview” feature through the Windows Insider program. This means general users will have to wait until it’s deemed fully secure and ready for wider release.

Despite the delay, the on-device processing power of the NPU is evident in features such as image generation, which delivers results in under 10 seconds. Copilot+ offers a glimpse into the future of AI-powered computing, and with ongoing development, it has the potential to revolutionize the way we interact with our laptops.

AI Creativity Tools
The Vivobook S 15 showcases two outstanding Copilot+ features: image generation in Photos and Cocreator in Paint. Both leverage AI to create visuals based on user input. Cocreator in Paint functions as a digital art assistant. It analyses your basic sketch and uses AI to bring it to life, fleshing out your creative vision. Photos, on the other hand, take a text prompt and generate a complete image based on your description. If you’re someone who regularly needs creative inspiration or enjoys experimenting with artistic concepts, these tools might be valuable assets.

It’s important to note that the photo generation in Photos prioritises a unique, artistic style over photorealism. This is likely a deliberate choice to avoid the spread of misleadingly realistic AI-generated images. For users seeking more hyper-realistic imagery, existing online generators might be a better fit. Ultimately, these Copilot+ features represent exciting first steps in AI-powered creativity. As the technology matures, they have the potential to become even more powerful and user-friendly.

Standout Copilot+ Features
While all the Copilot+ features have their merits, the enhanced Windows Studio Effects truly steal the show. These AI-powered effects elevate your video conferencing experience, offering three key benefits:

• Flawless Skin Filter: Say goodbye to bad camera days! This filter smoothes and enhances your complexion, similar to popular social media filters.
• Virtual Portrait Light: No more battling dim lighting. This mode uses AI to brighten your face, ensuring you’re always well-lit during video calls.
• Realistic Background Blur: Distracting backgrounds are a thing of the past. The advanced blur effect creates a professional and polished look.

Another unexpected gem is the Vivobook S 15’s ability to consistently wake from sleep instantly upon opening the lid. Unlike many Windows laptops that hibernate after inactivity, requiring a longer wake-up time, the Vivobook wakes instantaneously – similar to the seamless experience on Macs. This small detail significantly improves user experience and workflow. Every time you open the lid, you’re greeted by a ready-to-go system, eliminating frustrating wait times. It’s a small feature with a big impact.

Snapdragon X Elite Performance
The question on everyone’s mind: does the Snapdragon X Elite deliver on its promises? The answer is a resounding yes! This processor proves to be a powerhouse, handling a variety of tasks with impressive efficiency. Whether you’re a web browser with a legion of open tabs, a multitasking master juggling multiple applications, or a creative professional working on video and audio editing, the Snapdragon X Elite tackles it all with ease. It can even handle some light gaming without breaking a sweat.

It’s important to note that the ASUS Vivobook S 15 features the “entry-level” X Elite configuration, the 3.4GHz X1E78100 with 12 cores and 12 threads. While there are two higher-tier options (X1E80100 and X1E84100) that boast slightly better performance on specific cores, the real-world difference for everyday use is minimal. The biggest distinction might be noticeable in GPU performance, relevant primarily for gamers.

For most users, the X1E78100 in the Vivobook S 15 provides a smooth and responsive experience. Based on our testing of the ASUS Vivobook S 15, the X Elite proves itself a worthy competitor, going toe-to-toe with the Apple M3 in a significant portion of our benchmarks.

Even more impressive, the X Elite outperforms high-end Intel Core i7 and Core i9 chips found in some laptops. This is a significant win for Qualcomm, demonstrating the muscle of their latest silicon. These results suggest the Snapdragon X Elite is a force to be reckoned with in the mid-range laptop market.

Battery Life
Battery life is a crucial factor for many laptop users. The Vivobook S 15 boasts a generous 70Wh battery cell, larger than most Copilot+ PCs. The good news? It delivers on that promise. While the PCMark 10 Applications battery test yielded a result of 14 hours and 23 minutes, it’s important to remember that benchmarks aren’t always the ultimate measure of real-world performance. In everyday use, the Vivobook S 15 truly shines. Whether you’re tackling a full workday of web browsing, emails, and office tasks, or stretching into the next day, you can rest assured this laptop won’t leave you scrambling for a power outlet.

One interesting detail: by default, the laptop switches to a custom “power efficiency” profile when unplugged. This profile prioritises battery life by underclocking the CPU to around 1GHz, perfectly suitable for light tasks like web browsing or document editing. However, for more demanding applications, you might want to switch to the “balanced” power profile for optimal performance.

Keyboard, Trackpad, and Webcam
The Vivobook S 15 doesn’t disappoint when it comes to input devices. The keyboard comes with a Number Pad. You also get RGB Backlight. This is a surprising but welcome addition for a non-gaming laptop, as the keyboard boasts a fully customisable 1-zone RGB backlight. There’s also Microsoft Dynamic Lighting Integration, which lets you personalise your lighting experience using Microsoft’s built-in Dynamic Lighting feature within the Windows Settings app.

Complementing the fantastic keyboard, the Vivobook S 15 features a spacious and responsive trackpad. Using precision drivers, it delivers the same smooth gestures and scrolling found on high-end laptops. Clicking produces a satisfyingly subtle sound, further enhancing the user experience.

The Vivobook S 15 sports a 1080p webcam situated in the centre of the top bezel. While picture and video quality are acceptable in well-lit conditions, sharpness suffers in low-light environments. However, the inclusion of a physical privacy shutter is a welcome security feature. Thankfully, Copilot+ elevates the webcam experience through new, advanced Windows Studio Effects. These effects leverage the built-in neural processing unit (NPU) to ensure smooth performance across all your applications.

Verdict
The ASUS VivoBook S 15 serves as an impressive introduction to the world of Copilot+ PCs. It stands out as a well-rounded device that will undoubtedly please a wide range of users at the AED 5499 price point. The innovative Snapdragon X Elite processor, combined with a stunning display, long-lasting battery, and a sleek design, makes it a compelling option for users who value performance, portability, and affordability.

If you’re considering a Copilot+ PC, the ASUS VivoBook S 15 is worth a closer look, and it walks away with the Gadget Voize Editors’ Choice award!

Price: AED 5499

In the ever-evolving landscape of audio technology, SONOS has consistently been a name synonymous with quality and innovation. The SONOS Move 2, the latest addition to their lineup, aims to redefine the portable speaker experience. Packed with upgraded features and a commitment to delivering a superior sound experience, the Move 2 is a promising sequel to its predecessor.

Design and Build Quality
The first thing that strikes you about the SONOS Move 2 is its design – an embodiment of modern aesthetics and practicality. The sleek, cylindrical form factor exudes a premium feel, with a robust build that instils confidence in its durability. The device is constructed from high-quality materials, combining a rugged plastic exterior with a metal grille covering the speakers.

While it may be a bit bulky to be truly ‘portable’, it’s perfect for shuffling between rooms or taking out into your garden. It’s available in Black, White, and Olive colours – for this review, we received the Olive colour variant.

The SONOS Move 2 retains the signature carry handle from its predecessor, making it easy to transport. The handle is both functional and stylish, adding a touch of sophistication to the overall design. The device maintains its IP56 rating for weather resistance, ensuring it can withstand dust, water splashes, and the occasional drizzle – a feature that enhances its suitability for outdoor use.

Portability
True to its name, the Move 2 is designed for portability. Weighing in at just under 3 kg, it strikes a balance between being lightweight enough for easy transport and heavy enough to communicate a sense of sturdiness. The carry handle, in addition to its aesthetic appeal, provides a secure grip, making it comfortable to carry around.

The Move 2’s built-in rechargeable battery is another key feature contributing to its portability. On paper, the speaker offers a battery life of up to 24 hours. During our real-world tests, we clocked around 20 hours of battery life, which is brilliant. The USB-C charging port ensures a quick and convenient recharge, and the Move 2 also supports wireless charging through the bundled wireless charging base, which is quite convenient.

Connectivity
One of the standout features of SONOS devices is their seamless connectivity, and the Move 2 continues this tradition. It supports both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, providing flexibility for various use cases. When connected to your home Wi-Fi network, the Move 2 integrates seamlessly with the SONOS ecosystem, through the SONOS app, allowing for multi-room audio synchronisation and access to a plethora of streaming services.

Bluetooth functionality, on the other hand, enables a direct connection to your devices, making the Move 2 an excellent companion for outdoor adventures where Wi-Fi may not be available. The transition between these modes is smooth, thanks to SONOS’s user-friendly app, ensuring that you can effortlessly switch between using the Move 2 as a stationary home speaker and a portable device on the go.

Sound Quality
The heart of any audio device lies in its ability to deliver a captivating listening experience, and the SONOS Move 2 does not disappoint. The device features three class-D amplifiers, which have been designed for the unique acoustic architecture of the speaker. A pair of angled tweeters produce a sharp and precise high-frequency response, enhancing stereo separation.

A single mid-woofer guarantees the accurate reproduction of mid-range vocal frequencies and deep bass tones. Overall, the SONOS Move 2 offers crisp highs and deep, resonant lows. Whether you’re playing your favourite upbeat tracks or immersing yourself in a podcast, the clarity and richness of the audio are remarkable.

The automatic Trueplay technology further enhances the listening experience by automatically tuning the sound based on the speaker’s surroundings, ensuring optimal performance in any environment. The Move 2’s stereo sound capabilities add depth to the audio, creating a more immersive experience. Even at higher volumes, the sound remains distortion-free.

Smart Features
Building on the success of its predecessor, the Move 2 incorporates a range of smart features that elevate its usability. The inclusion of voice control through popular virtual assistants such as Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant enhances the hands-free experience. Whether you’re adjusting the volume, skipping tracks, or checking the weather, the Move 2 responds promptly to your voice commands.

Furthermore, the SONOS app provides a centralised hub for controlling the Move 2 and other SONOS devices in your home. The app’s intuitive interface allows for easy customisation of sound settings, grouping speakers for synchronised playback, and accessing a wide range of streaming services.

Verdict
Overall, the SONOS Move 2 successfully builds upon the strengths of its predecessor, delivering a portable speaker that seamlessly combines style, durability, and exceptional audio quality. Its versatility in connectivity, robust build, and impressive battery life make it a go-to choice for both indoor and outdoor settings.

While the Move 2 comes with a premium price tag, the investment is justified by the premium audio experience it offers. Whether you’re a dedicated audiophile or a casual listener, the SONOS Move 2 stands out as a reliable and feature-rich option in the competitive landscape of portable speakers, reaffirming SONOS’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of audio technology. The SONOS Move 2 thus walks away with the Gadget Voize Editors’ Choice award!

Price: AED 2000

Photography by Ryan Chris

Sony launched the very popular WF-1000XM4 Truly Wireless Earbuds two years ago, and the company has now followed up with an upgrade that includes a key highlight. The Sony WF-1000XM5 Truly Wireless Earbuds were launched a week ago and as soon as Sony executives mentioned the new earbuds were now 25% smaller than the predecessor, there was a huge sigh of relief.

Video: Sony Launches the new WF-1000XM4 Truly Wireless Noise Cancelling Earbuds in the UAE

Don’t mistake me, the WF-1000XM4 were an awesome pair of truly wireless earbuds. However, the XM4 was a tad too bulky for true comfort. Now, in a flash, the XM5 has swooped in and conquered this crucial enhancement for providing a better fit. And that’s not all – the XM5 boasts an upgrade in sound quality, noise cancellation, and call clarity. In addition, the WF-1000XM5 is also Sony’s most expensive earbuds yet, coming in at a price point of AED 1299.

The WF-1000XM5 aren’t just smaller, they’re also 20% lighter and incredibly streamlined. This sleek transformation applies to both the earbuds and the wireless charging case, now sporting a more pocket-friendly rounded shape. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, yet it’s hard not to appreciate the XM5’s elegant design. The days of the XM4’s chunky, somewhat odd-shaped build and gold accents are behind us.

The XM5 has emerged as a testament to sophistication – compact, polished, and graceful. The golden microphone port still remains, however, it now seamlessly blends into the earbud’s body, resembling more of an exquisite inlay rather than a mere functional element. In fact, these earbuds could easily grace a black-tie affair without seeming out of place.

Inside the eco-friendly paper packaging, you’ll uncover a treasure trove of Sony WF-1000XM5 goodies. There’s the star of the show – the earbuds themselves, snugly nestled inside the trusty charging case. Upon opening the package further, you’ll find a handy USB charging cable, a trio of spare polyurethane foam ear tips in different sizes, and a thoughtful set of instructions. However, this time Sony goes the extra mile by including an ace up their sleeve – a set of extra-small ear tips. This little addition comes to the rescue of those with daintier ear canals, guaranteeing a snug and perfect fit for all.

The exterior of each earbud has undergone a modern makeover, featuring a glossy plastic material that gives off a premium aura. This sleek surface meets contemporary standards both in appearance and tactile feel. However, a contrasting touch reveals the outer shell designated for touch controls and housing the outer microphone setup; this area boasts a finely textured matte finish. Remarkably, these touch controls work seamlessly.

The WF-1000XM5 has also added a new driver, which Sony calls Dynamic Driver X. This new driver measures 8.4mm, and it surpasses its predecessor’s 6.4mm unit by a leap. This enhanced size translates to less movement for the larger driver, a feature Sony claims aids in minimising mechanical noise. To further refine the audio output, Sony has used two different materials for different frequencies – one optimised for the highs and the other tailored for the lows.Sony WF-1000XM5 Truly Wireless Earbuds

Shrinking down by a solid 15% in comparison to its older sibling, the charging case has undergone a sleek makeover. It now rocks a dedicated pairing button at the back, and upfront, there’s a discreet LED indicator winking at you. The charging case also supports both USB-C charging and Qi wireless charging. And don’t think twice about juice – it’s got enough to fuel your earbuds through a trio of charge cycles.

The Sony WF-1000XM5 may not be ready to swim with fishes, but they’re not afraid of a little rain. With an IPX4 water resistance rating, these earbuds are your buddies for casual drizzles during your outdoor escapades or those intense sweat sessions at the gym.

Sony has truly upped the ante in touch control finesse with the WF-1000XM5. In past iterations, you were limited to a single set of functions per earbud. But this time around, the possibilities have expanded, presenting a whole array of actions at your fingertips.

And, once you pop an earbud out of your ear, the music will pause on both earbuds, and when you put the earbuds back into the ear, the music playback resumes. In addition, if you press and hold the left earbud control, you will be able to enter into the transparency mode, which lets you listen to the world around you.

To unlock the earbuds’ full functionality, you will need to download the Sony Headphones Connect App. Beyond updates, it’s your hub for custom EQ, Ambient Sound tweaks, and touch sensor customization, compatible with Android and iOS. The app is also needed for Sony 360 Reality Audio, Speak-to-Chat, and DSEE Extreme, their proprietary algorithm that enriches lower-quality audio.

Sony has also taken a technological leap with the XM5. They’ve transitioned from the single V1 processor (used in the XM4) to a dual processor arrangement: the new V2 Integrated Processor alongside the latest HD Noise Cancelling Processor QN2e, dedicated to noise cancellation. This combined force, coupled with the XM5’s six microphones and revamped drivers, elevates ANC performance across most frequencies.

In my experience, this holds true. While the XM4 excelled in ANC, the XM5 takes it up a notch, which is particularly noticeable in specific scenarios, such as low-frequency noise. Another improvement is the XM5’s ability in tackling wind noise while in ANC mode. Wind often hampers ANC’s effectiveness, and the XM5 proved to be undisturbed by wind noise.

When it comes to call quality, the WF-1000XM5 shine by skillfully obscuring any background noises that typically divert attention from your voice. From traffic hum to construction clatter and even strong gusts of wind, these earbuds erase them all to a point where the other side of the call remains blissfully oblivious to any trace of these sounds.

Sony has consistently delivered brilliant sound quality, and the XM5 continue this legacy with brilliance. Their sound signature presents a subtle yet discernible enhancement over the XM4’s performance. Renowned for its strong bass response, Sony doesn’t disappoint – it’s rich, melodic, and now finds a better equilibrium alongside other frequencies.

Across diverse genres spanning hard rock to jazz, these earbuds meticulously preserve individual elements, ensuring clarity in vocals as well. As for Bluetooth 5.3 connections, the WF-1000XM5 stand firm, offering an average range for wireless earbuds – approximately 25 feet indoors and up to 45 feet outdoors with no obstructions.

When it comes to noise-cancelling earbuds, the Sony WF-1000XM5 stands tall as one of the finest options available today. However, this quality comes at a cost. With a price tag of AED 1299, these earbuds might not be the first pick for those on a budget. However, if your preferences lean towards exceptional active noise cancellation, top-tier sound quality, and comprehensive software support, the WF-1000XM5 undoubtedly justifies its premium pricing.

Price: AED 1299

Photography by Ryan Chris