Gadgets
POCO Launches POCO F3 and POCO X3 Pro in the UAE

POCO UAE, an independent brand born out of Xiaomi Corporation has launched two flagship smartphones – the POCO F3 and the POCO X3 Pro. Sporting the Qualcomm Snapdragon 870 5G Mobile Platform, POCO F3 immediately grabs attention as the brand’s most commanding device to date. Powerful yet slim and light, POCO F3 is comfortably in the league with high-end flagships.
POCO X3 Pro maintains the top-notch features that made its predecessor a prime choice for hardcore gamers and techies. With upgraded speed, storage capacity, and RAM option, POCO X3 Pro takes the gaming experience to a level unparalleled at this price point.
“As of Feb 28th, 2021, POCO has shipped a total of 13 million smartphones since the initial launch of POCO F1 in 2018. And specifically, global shipments of POCO X3 NFC alone have surpassed 4 million units within 7 months,” said Kevin Qiu, Head of POCO Global. “This time, we will continue POCO’s success by bringing exactly what you need, and more.”
POCO F3
POCO F3 plays in the big leagues with the brand’s most powerful device yet, powered by the Snapdragon 870 5G Mobile Platform. The device features an upgraded Qualcomm Kryo 585 CPU prime core clock speed of up to 3.2 GHz, which is an industry-leading prime core clock speed. Along with the ultra-fast Qualcomm Adreno 650 GPU, POCO F3 delivers superb game-play experience. Paired with LPDDR5 RAM and UFS 3.1 storage, the flagship setup guarantees faster read-write speeds for multitasking.
POCO F3 meets all the latest benchmarks in connectivity, sporting a Snapdragon X55 5G Modem-RF System for the lightning-fast 5G connectivity with support for the majority of global network bands. The device also supports Wi-Fi 6, putting it comfortably in league with high-end smartphones.
POCO F3’s 120Hz high refresh rate provides unprecedented smoothness when gaming on the large 6.67″ AMOLED display. This beast also features one of the tiniest dots in the industry at just 2.76mm. Additionally, the 360Hz touch sampling rate and the fine-tuned touch algorithm allow the phone to respond extremely fast to the touch of a fingertip. The MEMC technology, adding up to 60fps, further enhances the smoothness of video content.
The HDR10+ certified display, along with the True Display and True Color features, provides a truly eye-pleasing viewing experience with vibrant, highly accurate color. Crafted from a non-slippery material and measuring only 7.8mm thin and 196g in weight, the device feels comfortable and secure in the hand. At the same time, the Corning Gorilla Glass 5 on both front and back gives the phone sturdy protection.
Rocking a dual speaker setup with a bottom main speaker and a secondary speaker at the top, POCO F3 produces rich, detailed sound. POCO F3 is the brand’s first device to enable Dolby Atmos, leveling up your sound for a thoroughly impressive audio experience for videos, music, and games in the Dolby Atmos format, through both headphones and built-in speakers.
POCO F3’s AI triple camera setup and a myriad of crafty, innovative camera features help unleash photography skills. POCO F3 also gets its power from no ordinary battery. The 4,520mAh (typ) battery can be powered up at lightning speed thanks to the Middle Middle Tab (MMT) technology, which routes electric current into the device more efficiently. With the 33W in-box fast charger, the device can be charged to 100% in just 52 minutes.
POCO F3 comes in three colors: Arctic White, Night Black, and Deep Ocean Blue; and are priced at Dh1,399 (6GB of RAM and 128GB of storage) and Dh1,599 (8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage). All will be available for purchase by the end of April via Xiaomi’s official sales channels, including Carrefour, Lulu, SDG, Jacky’s, Amazon, Noon, IR channels, and Mi home.
POCO X3 Pro
POCO X3 Pro features a flagship performance, featuring Qualcomm Snapdragon 860, one of the most powerful 4G mobile platforms currently on the market. This platform features a Kryo 485 CPU boasting 7nm processing technology for a peak performance of up to 2.96GHz, along with the Adreno 640 GPU for enhanced graphics rendering. Combined, the platform allows you to enjoy an ultra-smooth, high-quality gaming experience, even when playing processing-heavy 3D games at high settings.
POCO X3 Pro retains the stunning 6.67″ FHD+ DotDisplay with a 120Hz refresh rate and 240Hz touch sampling rate, ensuring a super responsive, low-latency gameplay experience. The display uses DynamicSwitch to optimize refresh rate for different applications.
Say goodbye to low-power anxiety – equipped with an ultra-large capacity 5,160mAh (typ) battery, POCO X3 Pro offers a battery life of up to two full days. Built-in MMT technology and a 33W in-box fast charger makes sure the device is powered up in lightning time. Its dual top-and-bottom speaker setup provides a stunning flagship-level sound for streaming and gaming, which paired with the lively vibrations generated from the device’s precisely tuned Z-axis linear motor, made for gratifying gameplay.
POCO X3 Pro acts as your pocket videographer with a complete quad-camera rear setup and a myriad of noteworthy camera functions to explore. A 48MP main camera supporting 1.6um 4-in-1 Super Pixels allows for clear and stunningly detailed images. The 119° ultra-wide camera lens offers Night Mode so beautiful landscape shots or group photos can happen even in low-light conditions. POCO X3 Pro comes in three colors: Phantom Black, Frost Blue, Metal Bronze.
The 6GB RAM + 128GB storage variant is priced at AED 899, while the 8GB RAM + 256GB storage variant is priced at AED 1,099.

Audio Devices
TOZO NC9 Earbuds Review: Budget ANC Earbuds With a Battery Display

The TOZO NC9 is a pair of true wireless earbuds featuring Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), a sleek design, and solid audio performance at a competitive price. TOZO has built a reputation for delivering affordable yet capable audio gear, but does the NC9 stand out in a market flooded with budget ANC options? Let’s take a closer look.
Design and Build Quality
The TOZO NC9 adopts a minimalist in-ear design. The earbuds have a matte finish that resists fingerprints and smudges, maintaining a clean look even with frequent use. Each earbud weighs just 5 grams, making them comfortable for extended wear, and they come with three pairs of silicone ear tip sizes to ensure a secure fit.
The charging case is compact and pocket-friendly, featuring a smooth, pebble-like shape with a satisfying magnetic snap closure. While the build is primarily plastic—expected at this price—the overall feel is sturdy and well-constructed.
One of the standout features of the charging case is that it has an LED display on the front that shows the battery level of the case and the earbuds. Another notable highlight is the IPX6 water resistance, which makes the NC9 resistant to sweat and light rain, adding durability for workouts and outdoor use.
Technical Specifications
The TOZO NC9 is equipped with Bluetooth 5.3, ensuring a stable connection with minimal latency. It features Hybrid Active Noise Cancellation, capable of reducing ambient noise by up to 35dB, and is powered by 9mm dynamic drivers for audio output.
While the earbuds support SBC and AAC codecs, the absence of aptX or LDAC means audiophiles may miss higher-resolution streaming. Battery life is solid, offering up to 6 hours of playback with ANC enabled (24 hours with the case) and 9 hours without ANC (40 hours with the case). Charging is handled via USB-C, with a full recharge taking about two hours, and the case also supports wireless charging for added convenience. Touch controls are fully customizable through the TOZO companion app, allowing users to tailor gestures for playback, calls, and ANC modes.
Audio Performance
The 9mm dynamic drivers deliver a V-shaped sound signature, emphasizing bass and treble while slightly recessing the mids. This tuning makes the NC9 particularly well-suited for bass-heavy genres such as EDM, hip-hop, and pop, though vocals and acoustic instruments may not be as pronounced as on more neutral-sounding earbuds.
The bass response is punchy and deep without becoming muddy, while the treble remains crisp, though it can get slightly harsh at higher volumes. The midrange is clear but not as forward as some listeners might prefer, which may affect the naturalness of voices and certain instruments.
When it comes to Active Noise Cancellation, the NC9 performs admirably for its price, effectively dampening low-frequency noises such as airplane engines, traffic, and air conditioning. However, higher-pitched sounds (such as chatter or barking dogs) are less effectively blocked. The Transparency Mode works well, allowing external sounds to pass through clearly when needed.
Battery Indicator Screen
One of the standout features of the NC9, as mentioned before, is its LED battery percentage display on the charging case. Unlike many budget earbuds that rely on vague LED indicators, this small screen provides an exact remaining charge percentage, eliminating guesswork and ensuring you always know how much battery is left.
Additional Features
The TOZO companion app enhances the user experience by allowing customization of the EQ, touch controls, and ANC settings. A low-latency mode helps reduce audio lag for gaming and video watching, though some minor delay may still be noticeable.
The earbuds also support multi-point connectivity, enabling simultaneous pairing with two devices—a useful feature for switching between a phone and laptop. Pairing is quick and hassle-free, with most devices recognizing the NC9 instantly.
Verdict
The TOZO NC9 delivers very good ANC performance for its price, along with a comfortable, secure fit and IPX6 water resistance. The battery life is solid, and the inclusion of wireless charging and a battery percentage display adds convenience rarely seen in budget earbuds. Sound quality is energetic and bass-forward, making these a great choice for casual listeners and commuters.
While the ANC is effective for low-frequency noise, it struggles with higher-pitched sounds. The lack of aptX or LDAC support may disappoint those seeking higher-resolution audio, and the V-shaped tuning might not suit listeners who prefer balanced mids.
If you’re looking for affordable ANC earbuds with good battery life, wireless charging, and a useful battery display, the TOZO NC9 is an excellent choice. However, if you prioritize audiophile-grade sound or stronger ANC for voices and sharp noises, you may want to consider higher-end models.
Pros:
✅ Strong ANC for the price
✅ Good battery life with wireless charging
✅ Clear battery percentage display
✅ Comfortable, secure fit with IPX6 rating
✅ Customizable via TOZO app
Cons:
❌ No aptX/LDAC for high-res audio
❌ Mid-range clarity could be better
❌ ANC struggles with high-frequency noise
Price: AED 150
TOZO NC9 ANC Earbuds AED 150
Summary
When it comes to Active Noise Cancellation, the NC9 performs admirably for its price, effectively dampening low-frequency noises such as airplane engines, traffic, and air conditioning.
User Review
( votes)Audio Devices
HUAWEI Intros its First Open-Ear Earbuds with Earhooks Called FreeArc

Huawei brings its first-ever open-ear earbuds with earhooks, HUAWEI FreeArc, to the UAE. Engineered for maximum comfort and stability, these earbuds stay securely in place even during the most vigorous physical activities. Being Huawei’s first earbuds to be IP57 water-resistance certified, it is perfect for any sports or outdoor adventure, even in wet conditions.
The HUAWEI FreeArc features the iconic C-bridge design with a new earhook form. Blending advanced engineering with user-centric design, it offers Sterling Sound, punchy bass, and all-weather comfort for an unmatched open-ear audio experience. The new HUAWEI FreeArc is available starting 27 March for AED 399 with HUAWEI Scale 3 as free gift for first buyers which is worth AED 109. Huawei’s ergonomics research team analysed over 10,000 auricle curves and utilised a vast 3D ear database to create the HUAWEI FreeArc. With micrometre-level precision, the design ensures a secure, comfortable fit that adapts to the natural shape of your ears.
The HUAWEI FreeArc features three key components: the Comfort Droplet, Acoustic Bean, and the C-bridge. The C-bridge, made from a 0.7mm nickel-titanium shape memory alloy, moulds the user’s ear shape for optimal comfort. Covered in ultra-soft, skin-friendly liquid silicone across 81.5% of its surface, these SGS Smart Green Medal-certified earbuds ensure lasting comfort and a breathable, open design for greater situational awareness and safety. From yoga sessions to hands-free work, the HUAWEI FreeArc allows for carefree motion and activity.
The HUAWEI FreeArc delivers exceptional sound with its 17 x 12 mm high-sensitivity driver unit, symmetrical acoustic structure, dynamic bass algorithm, and Adaptive Equal-loudness Algorithm, ensuring punchy bass and richer, detailed audio performance. The HUAWEI FreeArc ensures stable connections over long distances, from a sports field with a 400-meter circumference to a 100-square-meter office, providing uninterrupted connectivity across wide environments. These earbuds ensure clear voice pickup with a prime dual-mic setup, and triple call noise cancellation that blocks ambient noise during calls.
Gadgets
Lenovo Launches ThinkPad X9 Aura Edition in the UAE

Lenovo has announced the launch of the ThinkPad X9 Aura Edition in the UAE, bringing a new era of business computing to professionals who demand innovation, performance, and style. The latest addition to Lenovo’s ThinkPad lineup, the X9 Aura Edition merges durability with cutting-edge technology, delivering an ultra-portable, AI-powered laptop tailored for modern business needs. Designed for seamless productivity, the ThinkPad X9 Aura Edition features the latest Intel Core Ultra Series 2 processors, providing unmatched efficiency and next-gen AI capabilities.
The device boasts a 2.8K OLED display with 100% DCI-P3 color gamut, offering visuals enhanced by Dolby Vision technology. The laptop is also equipped with Dolby Atmos® speakers, delivering immersive sound quality for meetings and multimedia experiences. The ThinkPad X9 Aura Edition introduces a contemporary redesign, including a haptic touchpad that provides a smooth, responsive alternative to the traditional TrackPoint, while retaining the signature ThinkPad keyboard experience. The device is remarkably slim and lightweight, measuring just 17.18mm thin and weighing less than 1.27 kg, making it an ideal choice for professionals on the go.
Engineered for durability, the ThinkPad X9 Aura Edition meets MIL-STD 810H military-grade standards and integrates sustainable materials, including 50% recycled aluminum in the top and bottom covers, 85% PCC recycled plastic keycaps, and 100% recycled cobalt in the battery. Its innovative Engine Hub, located beneath the laptop, optimizes space while ensuring effective cooling and efficient performance.
As part of the Lenovo Aura Edition series, the ThinkPad X9 Aura Edition introduces AI-powered Smart Technologies, including:
- Smart Care: Real-time support and troubleshooting via live chat or phone
- Smart Share: Seamless file sharing between laptops and smartphones through Intel Unison
- Smart Modes: Personalized AI-driven optimizations for privacy, collaboration, wellness, and performance
The laptop is powered by Lenovo’s newest 65W GaN USB-C charger, which is compact, energy-efficient, and runs cool to the touch. Its repairable design allows easy access to the SSD and battery, ensuring longevity and ease of maintenance. The Lenovo ThinkPad X9 Aura Edition is now available in the UAE starting at AED 7599, available at select retailers.
You must be logged in to post a comment Login