Gadgets
Denon Adds Premium Sound Bar with 3D Sound to its Home Hi-Res Multiroom Speaker Ecosystem

Denon has today introduced the Denon Home Sound Bar 550, a high-performance, compact sound bar that adds superior TV audio to the Denon Home family of products. With the ability to deliver Dolby Atmos and DTS:X 3D surround sound from a six-driver array, the sound bar makes movies, TV and music sound huge.
Listeners can also stream high-resolution music from their favourite music services or local music libraries directly to the soundbar leveraging HEOS Built-in. Additionally, listeners who already invested in the HEOS ecosystem, including other Denon Home products, can add the Denon Home Sound Bar 550 as a separate wireless zone without pulling a single wire. The Denon Home Sound Bar 550 (€649) will be available for purchase in February 2021.
The Sound Bar 550 can be used as a standalone sound bar or expanded with other wireless Denon Home speakers, including the Denon Home 150, 250 and 350, which can all be implemented as rear-channel surrounds. Listeners who want more impactful bass performance can add the DSW-1H wireless subwoofer separately for an even more realistic theater experience.
Like every Denon product, the Denon Home Sound Bar 550 is built to deliver best-in-class audio quality. With advanced acoustic hardware, expertly tuned digital signal processing and premium drivers, this sound bar offers everything a home entertainment enthusiast needs for great 3D surround sound without taking up too much space under the TV. Thanks to Dolby Atmos and DTS:X processing along with 4K video compatibility, the Sound Bar 550 creates a lifelike 3D cinematic experience.
For added convenience, the sound bar’s control panel lights up automatically as an outstretched hand approaches, enabling easy fingertip control of features like volume adjustment, play/pause, muting the microphones and the ability to skip or restart songs without using the app or remote controller. Further, the remote controller and HEOS app are equipped with three Quick Select buttons. With Quick Select, listeners can store their preferred source with listening modes or Internet radio stations to enjoy them whenever they want with a single button press.
The Denon Home Sound Bar 550 is easy to set up and can be controlled with the included remote and most TV remotes, the HEOS app or the on-board illuminated control panel, allowing users to manipulate the sound bar however they want. With eARC connectivity (Enhanced Audio Return Channel), the Sound Bar 550 delivers superior sound quality via a single HDMI connection to the TV.
The sound bar is also compatible with Apple AirPlay 2 to easily stream from Apple devices. To ensure effortless integration with popular smart home ecosystems, the Sound Bar 550 is the first Denon sound bar to include onboard software drivers for Control4, Crestron, URC, Elan, and more.
In addition to the new Sound Bar 550, the existing Denon Home lineup is comprised of three wireless multiroom speakers, each expertly tuned by Denon’s sound masters to provide optimized, balanced performance while blending seamlessly into any décor. All Denon Home models, including the Sound Bar 550 provide effortless access to streaming services like Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music HD, TIDAL and more, as well as high-resolution files stored on phones or network via Wi-Fi, AirPlay 2, or Bluetooth.
HEOS Built-in functionality gives users access to millions of songs, including thousands of high-resolution digital audio tracks all effortlessly controlled from a single app. Listeners can play different music in each room or group all HEOS Built-in and Denon Home devices together to stream the same music in Party Mode throughout the home or office.
In Spring 2021, Denon Home 550 and Denon Home wireless speaker owners will be able to activate voice capabilities using Amazon Alexa. All Denon Home products feature built-in microphones, which can be enabled via a firmware update, and will allow for Alexa capability. If a user chooses to enable Alexa and link their account, Denon Home customers can use Alexa as they normally would on any other Alexa enabled device. This will conveniently and discreetly add voice capabilities to the home theater, giving users the ability to utter voice requests to adjust features like the sound bar’s volume, select inputs, and bass and treble levels. The microphones will not be enabled without explicit user permission.
Denon Home Sound Bar 550 (€649/£599) will be available in-store mid-February 2021 and available for pre-order 1st February 2021 at authorized Denon Retailers and via the Denon webshop. The Denon Home Soundbar 550 will be available at DG Plus at Time Square Centre and select Sharaf DG stores across UAE.

Gadgets
OPPO Intros the Rugged A5 Pro

OPPO has officially launched the highly anticipated A5 Pro in the United Arab Emirates, marking a significant milestone in its popular A Series lineup. Designed with durability, advanced AI capabilities, and sleek aesthetics, the OPPO A5 Pro delivers exceptional performance for outdoor adventures, gaming, and entertainment.
The A5 Pro boasts an ultra-slim and lightweight design in two elegant colors—Mocha Brown and Olive Green. At just 7.76mm thick and weighing 194g, the Mocha Brown offers a sleek profile, while the Olive Green features a vegan leather finish for a premium texture and feel. Equipped with IP69 water and dust resistance, the A5 Pro is designed to withstand tough conditions, from heavy rains to accidental drops. Its innovative Splash Touch feature ensures smooth operation even on wet or oily screens. With military-grade shock resistance and upgraded double-tempered glass, the phone is built to endure everyday hazards with ease.
Powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 6300 Mobile Platform, up to 12GB of RAM (expandable via RAM Expansion), and 256GB of storage, the A5 Pro delivers smooth and reliable performance. Enhanced by ColorOS 15 Lite and OPPO’s proprietary Trinity Engine, the phone guarantees system fluency for up to four years, as certified by OPPO’s 48-month Fluency Protection certification.
With AI LinkBoost and a 360° Surround Antenna, the A5 Pro ensures consistent network coverage even in weak signal areas. An Outdoor Mode optimizes network and CPU performance for seamless usage in demanding environments. The phone also supports operation with gloves, catering to outdoor professionals.
For gaming enthusiasts, OPPO’s AI GameBoost technology dynamically optimizes frame rates, delivering immersive gameplay across popular titles. A 1,000-nit Ultra Bright Display, dual stereo speakers, and Ultra Volume Mode combine for an enhanced audio-visual experience. The phone is backed by a 5,800mAh battery with 45W Flash Charge, ensuring long hours of uninterrupted use.
The A5 Pro is equipped with a 50MP main camera, 2MP portrait camera, and 8MP front camera, all enhanced by advanced AI imaging features. LivePhoto, Underwater Photography, and AI Studio tools allow users to capture and edit stunning photos and videos. Dual-View Video functionality enables simultaneous recording from front and rear cameras, perfect for vlogs and interviews.
The OPPO A5 Pro is available in the GCC region at AED 899 for the 8+256GB model and AED 1,049 for the 12+256GB variant. Customers who purchase during the promotional period (March 20 – April 2, 2025) will receive complimentary headphones worth AED 799. Each purchase includes a 12-month warranty covering waterproofing and screen protection.
Gadgets
Video: vivo Y39 5G Review – The Ultimate Mid-Range Smartphone at AED 799

Discover why the vivo Y39 5G is one of the best mid-range smartphones of 2025. Priced at just AED 799, this powerhouse delivers exceptional design, SGS-certified durability, IP64 dust and water resistance, and a 6500mAh battery with vivo’s FlashCharge and reverse charging. Powered by the Snapdragon 4 Gen 2, with up to 16GB RAM and 256GB storage, the vivo Y39 is perfect for gaming enthusiasts, multitaskers, and creatives:
vivo Y39 5G
AED 799
-
Final Rating
Summary
The phone comes packed with AI-powered imaging features, dual stereo speakers with 400% volume, and cutting-edge productivity tools like AI SuperLink and Gemini Assistant. Plus, with SCHOTT Xensation Shield Glass, a dual rear camera setup (50MP main + 2MP Bokeh), and an 8MP front camera, your photos and videos will truly shine.
User Review
( votes)
Gadgets
Nothing Phone 3a and 3a Pro Launches in the Middle East

Nothing Tech today announced the regional launch of its new smartphone series, the Nothing (3a) series in the Middle East. Announced at its local event held in Dubai, the two new smartphones in the series will be available across various local retailers, both in store and online, right on time for Eid gifting.
Starting at AED 1399 and AED 1749 the Phone (3a) and (3a Pro), come to the Middle East right around the Eid holidays, making it an ideal gift for family, friends or even oneself. Announced earlier this year at MWC 2025, the phones raise the standard for a smartphone experience, featuring a significantly upgraded camera system with optical zoom, boosted performance, a refined design, and Nothing OS innovations, including Essential Space.
Commenting on the launch, Rishi Kishor Gupta, Regional Director: Middle East & Africa for Nothing, said, “Our new Phone (3a) series represents the latest innovation from Nothing, and we are thrilled to bring it to the Middle East. Following the incredible reception in global markets, we’re excited to launch it here just in time for Eid, making it a perfect addition to gift lists. We are confident that the Phone (3a) series will resonate strongly with consumers in this region and achieve great success.”
The event, hosted by Khalid Al Ameri, one of UAE’s top influencers, saw the Nothing Phone (3a) series receiving various awards, including an award from Al Qiyadi as the Best Midrange Smartphone for 2025 for Excellence in Mobile Technology. The event also hosted various industry experts and speakers, including Ahmad Alzarooni, an Emirati IT and Cybersecurity expert, who shared insightful perspectives on the innovative Essential Space feature of the Nothing Phone (3a), Antikka Hossam, a content creator and photographer demonstrated practical tips and tricks for maximizing the potential of the Nothing Phone (3a) series and Faisal Bouafra, an Emirati member of the Nothing community and a passionate brand enthusiast, who shared his story with Nothing and his passion and love for the brand.
The Nothing Phone (3a) and Phone (3a Pro) refine the brand’s signature design with upgraded glass back panels, improved internal symmetry, and detailed finishes. Showcasing each camera system through its exposed aesthetic and innovative engineering, the phones also enhance durability with an IP64 rating and achieve the brand’s lowest carbon footprint at 51.3kg of CO2e.
The Nothing Phone (3a) Series introduces its most advanced camera system, featuring a 50MP main sensor, Sony ultra-wide sensor, and optical zoom. TrueLens Engine 3.0 combines AI and multi-frame technology for professional-grade photography. The Phone (3a) offers 2x optical zoom and up to 30x AI-enhanced zoom, while the Phone (3a) Pro adds a periscope camera with 3x optical zoom, 60x ultra zoom, and telemacro capabilities for close-ups as near as 15cm.
Both models include a 50MP main sensor for sharp, true-to-life images, with the Phone (3a) Pro offering faster autofocus and better performance in harsh lighting. The ultra-wide camera provides a 120° field of view and improved low-light results. For selfies, the Phone (3a) has a 32MP front camera, while the Phone (3a) Pro features a 50MP front camera capable of 4K video recording with AI stabilization and night enhancement.
Powered by the Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 Mobile Platform, the Phone (3a) Series delivers 92% better AI processing than its predecessor. RAM Booster enables up to 20GB of combined physical and virtual RAM, while a larger vapor chamber reduces heat by 23%. Both models feature 5000mAh batteries for two days of use, with 50W fast charging providing 50% power in under 20 minutes.
The Phone (3a) and Phone (3a) Pro feature immersive 6.77-inch displays with Full HD+ resolution, 387 PPI, and a smooth 120Hz adaptive refresh rate. A 480Hz touch sampling rate increases to 1000Hz in Gaming Mode for responsiveness. Auto brightness reaches 1300 nits, while peak brightness hits 3000 nits—a 131% improvement over the Phone (2a).
At the heart of it all is the Nothing OS 3.1a fast, smooth foundation tuned for stability, utility and customization, built with Android 15. Along with new levels of customizations, this new OS will also get updates for 6 years starting from when the device first became available on nothing.tech. This includes three years of Android updates and six years of security updates in addition to corrective and functionality updates.
The phones also come with Essential Space, an AI-powered hub for notes, ideas, and inspirations, designed to capture, process, and remember content like a second memory. To ensure quick access, the Phone (3a) Series features the Essential Key on its right side—press to save content, long-press to record voice notes, or double-tap to view saved items. Early Access to Essential Space is available for all Phone (3a) and Phone (3a) Pro users, offering exclusive features like Camera Capture, Smart Collections, Focused Search, and Flip to Record, with more updates coming soon.
The Phone (3a) will be available in Black and White in two variants: 12GB+256GB for AED 1399, and 8GB+128GB for AED 999. The Phone (3a) Pro will be available in Grey and Black in one variant: 12GB+256GB for AED 1749. The 8+128GB variant of the Nothing Phone (3a) will also be available in an exclusive deal for AED 999 with Lulu and Amazon. The Blue variant of the Phone (3a), available only in 12GB+256GB configuration, will be an exclusive at Sharaf DG and Noon.com. As an exclusive launch offer, customers purchasing the Nothing Phone (3a Pro) will receive the CMF Buds and CMF Watch Pro 2 as a bundle offer, while customers purchasing the Phone (3a) will receive the CMF Buds bundled with the phone. This bundle offer applies only to the 12GB+256GB variants.
You must be logged in to post a comment Login