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.
Events
HONOR Hosts ‘HONOR the INNOVATION’ Event
HONOR revealed its latest flagship, the HONOR Magic V3, at the exclusive ‘HONOR the Innovation’ event. The launch of HONOR Magic V3 highlights HONOR’s unwavering commitment to innovation and the future of foldable technology, as the company continues to push boundaries and shape the tech landscape. The event followed HONOR’s announcement from the IFA 2024 site in Germany last week, where the company, in collaboration with Qualcomm and Microsoft, unveiled a trio of pioneering mobile AI solutions, spotlighting advancements in AI-driven computing and security.
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AI Agent, an on-device assistant that enhances user efficiency by automating tasks and integrating seamlessly with various apps. Additionally, HONOR introduced the world’s first on-device AI Deepfake Detection technology, which utilizes advanced algorithms to identify manipulated media and safeguard users from digital deception.
At the heart of the event in Dubai, is HONOR’s vision to redefine the mobile experience with groundbreaking features and design, making the HONOR Magic V3 a pivotal device in the company’s product lineup. From its innovative AI-integrated features, sleek and ultra-thin foldable design, and high-end camera systems, HONOR Magic V3 represents HONOR’s mission to deliver cutting-edge technology that meets the needs of modern users.
The UAE’s focus on becoming a global hub for innovation aligns with HONOR’s mission to elevate the mobile technology standard. Through events and devices like the Magic V3, HONOR aims to contribute to the UAE’s vision of a more connected, tech-driven future. The event also featured a dynamic panel discussion, “Social Coins of Innovation”. The panel spotlighted thought leaders including Mona Ataya, Founder of Mumzworld; Sudhu Arumugam, Chief Product Officer of M2; and Rishabh Singh, Vice President of Products at Astra Tech. Attendees experienced the future of mobile technology, networked with key figures in the tech industry, and gained insights from influential speakers.
As HONOR continues to make significant strides in the UAE and beyond, the successful launch of HONOR Magic V3 reaffirms the brand’s dedication to creating transformative technology. By consistently pushing the boundaries of what’s possible, HONOR remains at the forefront of technological advancement, delivering products that are not only innovative but also practical, versatile, and designed for the future. The strong reception at the event sets the stage for HONOR Magic V3 to become a landmark device, solidifying HONOR’s role as a global leader in smart devices.
Gadgets
Sony Intros ECM-L1 Lavalier Microphone with 3.5mm Plug-in Power
Sony Middle East and Africa has announced the ECM-L1, a lavalier microphone that supports 3.5 mm plug-in power, a product of Sony’s time-tested audio technology. This unit was developed based on the ECM-77 series, which has been highly regarded for many years by professionals, including broadcasting studios and production companies. ECM-L1 achieves high-quality sound pickup performance ensuring every word and nuance is captured with precision, as well as high reliability for extended use periods, all cultivated through Sony’s experience in professional audio technology.
In addition, it supports plug-in power and can be seamlessly integrated into a wide range of devices equipped with a 3.5 mm microphone input terminal making it extremely versatile. Thanks to its pin microphone design, it can be worn discretely around the speaker’s collar or shirt for a professional appearance on camera whilst still picking up sound clearly, making it ideal for interviews, documentaries, drama shoots, vlogging and live streams.
In recent years, with the increase in the number of creators producing video content, there has been a growing appetite to improve sound quality. By expanding its microphone line-up, Sony continues to support high-quality audio recording in a variety of situations. The ECM-L1 was developed based on the ECM-77 series, which has been used for many years by broadcasting stations and other organisations.
The capsule’s fixed electrode plate is made of a rigid ceramic. Its superior vibration properties deliver excellent sound quality with good rise time and high resolution. In addition, the microphone capsule is covered with a machined brass exterior to suppress unnecessary external resonance, enabling clear, crisp sound pickup. In addition, the high-purity OFC (oxygen-free copper) cable reduces audio transmission loss without compromising high sound quality.
A durable brass housing protects the microphone so that it holds up against wear and tear, even under rough usage at shooting sites. In addition, the 2.2 mm diameter cable is resistant to breakage and a locking ring is used at the connection point with the recording device to prevent the connector from accidentally coming loose. Two types of windscreens are included to reduce wind and pop noise: metal and faux fur. For a more discreet aesthetic, you can select the metal option, or depending on the shooting scenario, the additional wind noise reduction of the faux fur option is available.
The ECM-L1 lavalier microphone has plug-in power, where power is supplied from the connected device. It can be connected to a wide range of devices equipped with a 3.5 mm microphone input terminal, such as cameras, smartphones, wireless microphones, IC recorders, and computers, enabling high-quality audio recording to suit the many types of use cases. The ECM-L1 will be available in the Middle East and Africa from October 2024.
Components
CORSAIR RMx Series Power Supplies Get ATX 3.1 Upgrade, ATX 12V-2×6 Connector
CORSAIR has announced an update to its award-winning low-noise RMx series of power supplies with ATX 3.1 compliance, a native ATX 12V-2×6 connector, a manual fan speed control knob, and other improvements. Boasting Gold-certified efficiency (up to 91%) and an A+ noise rating from Cybenetics, the new RMx series includes fully modular, ultra-flexible embossed cables that simplify cable routing even in the most challenging of PC builds. Cooled by a 140mm Fluid-Dynamic Bearing fan with a magnetic dome structure and a manual fan override knob, the RMx series remains one of the quietest and most reliable power supplies available.
“We’re pleased to launch the new RMx Series with an entirely new electrical design that includes a six-layer PCB for better thermal and electrical performance, an upgraded fan, and full ATX 3.1 compliance,” said Jon Gerow, Director of Power Supply Research and Development at CORSAIR. “We’re also happy to announce it achieved the Cybenetics Gold rating for efficiency and the A+ rating for audible noise.” Each RMx power supply features 100% Japanese electrolytic capacitors and delivers its rated power output at a 50°C ambient temperature, ensuring reliable power and longevity even under high-stress conditions.
Available in 750W, 850W, and 1000W models, every RMx Series PSU is fully ATX 3.1 compliant and includes a native 12V-2×6 connector to support both current and future high-end GPUs. The 140mm FDB fan is PWM-controlled and features a half-dome structure that reduces surface friction, resulting in less noise and an improved lifespan. The specially calculated fan curve ensures fanless operation at low loads and minimal noise as power ramps up. Users who wish to override this can do so quickly and easily using the included knob on the rear of the unit.
The RMx Series features fully modular, embossed cables that are sleek and ultra-flexible, capable of making tight bends when connecting to nearly any device within a case, allowing for easy concealment. The 12v-2×6 cable includes low-profile combs for a clean look that compliments your GPU rather than obscuring it. The RMx PSU enclosure is all-new, featuring a stamped, low-restriction fan grill and an improved connector layout with clearer labelling. For users who want a splash of colour, the RMx Series is compatible with CORSAIR Premium Individually Sleeved Type 4 PSU cables and our ARGB PSU cable strips, sold separately.
RMx Series power supplies measure 150mm x 86mm x 160mm and include a wide variety of cables and connectors that vary based on the model purchased.