Gadgets
Acer Highlights its Range of Gaming Devices and Accessories for the Festive Season
As the festive season is almost upon us, avid gamers will be looking to explore their hobby further with the anticipation of the release of upcoming video games like Fortnite Season 5, Need for Speed Unbound, God of War Ragnarok, and The Callisto Protocol. Acer is offering the perfect range of devices for professional and amateur gaming aficionados alike to experience the best that these new games have to offer.
Both the gaming and e–sport sector in MENA is set to soar to unprecedented heights, and the size of the gaming market is projected to increase 19% to more than $5 billion by 2025, according to a report by the consultancy RedSeer. Against that backdrop, gaming enthusiasts who are looking for dependable and affordable devices need to look no further than Acer. From stationary gaming devices such as the Predator XB253 Monitor to gaming laptops such as the Predator Triton 300 and Nitro 5, to the newly launched Predator Gaming Chair, exclusively available in Kuwait, Acer offers a wide range of solutions for every need and budget.
“This gaming season, we are proud to present a wide variety of powerful devices from Acer. Powered by innovation and backed by some of the fastest processors in the industry, our exciting range of devices push performance for amazing gaming experiences and provide a stunning platform for gaming aficionados in the region,” said Michele Montecchio, General Manager at Acer Middle East.
The Predator Triton 300 SE and the Predator Helios 300 notebooks offer advanced specifications for gamers powered by up to 12th generation Intel Core i9 Processor. The all-powerful gaming machines are supported by Acer’s 5th Generation AeroBlade 3D Fan, a custom-engineered fan with eighty-nine 0.8 mm metal blades that generate 55% more airflow than a plastic fan. The devices also use Acer’s Vortex Flow Design concept to enhance cooling on the CPU and GPU.
Predator Triton 300 SE is designed for gamers who want a powerful device that can also excel in the workplace. The special edition notebook takes on the latest AAA games and the busy workday. The thin gaming laptop is impressive with the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 30 Series Laptop GPUs, 16:10 OLED panel options, supports blazing-fast wireless connectivity with Intel Killer Wi-Fi 6E AX1675i, up to 16 GB RAM memory, and plentiful ports with Thunderbolt 4, HDMI 2.1, and USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A options.
Meanwhile, the Predator Helios 300 Gaming Notebook possesses up to an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080 GPU and 64 GB of DR4 3200 MHz memory, giving gamers more than enough power to take on all of the latest titles, while a pair of PCIe NVMe SSDs in RAID 0 and one SATA HDD means that the notebook has plenty of space for the next generation of games, too.
The Predator Helios 300 SpatialLabs Edition is another powerful gaming laptop that enables glasses-free, stereoscopic 3D gaming experiences. With the SpatialLabs TrueGame application, gamers can effortlessly play in a 3D mode on the device in real time, and without special glasses. The SpatialLabs experience is created through the combination of an eye-tracking solution, a stereoscopic 3D display, and real-time rendering technologies. To power the real-time 3D experience, the Predator Helios 300 SpatialLabs Edition features up to 12th Gen Intel Core i9 processors, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080 Laptop GPUs, 32GB DDR5-4800 memory, and PCIe Gen 4 NVMe SSDs RAID 0 storage.
The Acer Nitro 5 notebook allows users to reign over the gaming world with the combined power of either a 12th Gen Intel Core Processor or AMD Ryzen 9 and up to an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080 GPU. Maximum speed and massive storage can be utilised with two slots for M.2 PCIe and SATA SSDs and up to 32GB of DDR4 RAM. The 4-zone RGB keyboard provides the keys to victory to take command of their game via the dedicated NitroSense Key. Users can step into an immersive experience through dual 2W speakers, with DTS:X Ultra, to deliver clear sounds in a 3D spatial soundscape.
For the best experience, gamers can pair up their favourite Acer devices with the Predator XB3 monitor that will take their experience to the next level with turbo-charged refresh rates, up to 4K UHD resolutions, and hyper-quick response times. In addition to that wide array of devices, the Predator Gaming Chair, currently available in Kuwait, offers the best vantage point for gamers to indulge in their favourite sport. With cool blue coloured leather, the chair allows gamers to take their most comfortable positions with its tension-minimising and body-hugging design, completed by a detachable lumbar and headrest.
Users of Acer gaming devices such as the Nitro and the Predator can also access Planet9, an eSports platform that brings together a community of like-minded gamers and provides them with the opportunity to learn from experienced coaches, meet and match up with gamers, and play in tournaments.
The 14-inch Predator Triton 300 SE (PT314-52s) is available in UAE starting at $2,179. The Predator Helios 300 (PH315-54) is available in MENA starting at $2,585. The Predator Helios 300 SpatialLabs Edition (PH315-55s) is available in UAE and Kuwait starting at $4,081. The Acer Nitro 5 (AN515-58) is available in MENA starting at $1,360. The Predator XB3 monitor (XB253Q GP) is available in ME starting at $390. The Predator Gaming Chair (NP.GCR11.001) is available in Kuwait starting at $390.
Earbuds
Huawei Launches a Wide Range of New Devices Including the New Mate X6 Foldable Smartphone
Huawei Consumer Business Group (CBG) unveiled several highly anticipated products that usher in a new era of flagship foldable excellence, as part of the “Unfold the Classic” HUAWEI Flagship Product Launch held in Dubai on December 12. Among these products is the new foldable smartphone, HUAWEI Mate X6, which sets a new standard for foldable smartphones and further solidifies Huawei’s leadership in the market. The HUAWEI Mate X6 is expected to redefine the foldable experience with its innovative design, durability, advanced features, and exceptional user experience.
In addition to the Mate X6, Huawei introduced an impressive lineup of new devices, including the HUAWEI nova 13 series, HUAWEI FreeBuds Pro 4, HUAWEI FreeClip in Rose Gold, and the HUAWEI MatePad 11.5. This suite of products represents a new era of flagship innovation, showcasing Huawei’s commitment to continuous advancement and delivering flagship experiences for consumers across the MEA region.
HUAWEI Mate X6 is a foldable smartphone that’s extremely thin, light, and durable. It comes with the 2nd Generation Kunlun Glass, which protects the exterior screen, while a carbon fibre inner screen plate adds strength to the interior display. The phone features an advanced multi-dimensional hinge and a robust aviation-grade aluminium middle frame. The Kunlun Glass offers 25 times better drop resistance.
The HUAWEI Mate X6’s camera system is one of its standout features, designed to capture true-to-life colours. The 50MP Ultra Aperture Camera is equipped with a ten-size adjustable physical aperture, ranging from F1.0 to F4.0, allowing users to precisely control depth of field and light intake. The camera also incorporates the Ultra Chroma technology, which uses 1.50 million spectral channels to boost colour accuracy by 120%. Equipped with an OLED exterior and a large internal OLED display, the Mate X6 supports a 120 Hz adaptive refresh rate.
Richard Yu, Chairman of Huawei Consumer Business Group, called the HUAWEI Mate X6 “A breakthrough technology from the inside out, bringing consumers a truly innovative foldable screen experience.” The HUAWEI Mate X6 will be available in UAE for preorder starting from December 12, 2024, for AED 7199 through Huawei’s online platforms as well as certified retailers. It will be available in three colours: Nebula Gray, Nebula Red, and Black. Preorder customers will benefit from add-ons worth AED 2698.
HUAWEI FreeBuds Pro 4
The HUAWEI FreeBuds Pro 4, the first-ever HUAWEI SOUND earbuds, set new benchmarks for wireless audio. Featuring an Ultra-Hearing Dual Driver system, these earbuds deliver a rich and dynamic listening experience across a wide frequency spectrum, from booming bass to sparkling treble. Designed for exceptional clarity during calls, the FreeBuds Pro 4 features advanced AI noise cancellation and a high-sensitivity bone-conducting microphone. The earbuds can intelligently distinguish between human voices and environmental noise, isolating your voice while filtering out distractions. Whether you’re at a concert or walking through a busy street, your calls remain uninterrupted, with crystal-clear sound.
HUAWEI FreeBuds Pro 4 will be available in UAE from January 9, 2025, at a price of AED 749 through Huawei’s online platforms as well as select retailers.
HUAWEI nova 13 Series
HUAWEI nova 13 Series, introduces the new Dynamic Plaid Texture Design, multi-focal portrait capabilities, and AI-driven innovations, ushering in a fresh wave of trends. Embodying the creative spirit of the younger generation, the series debuts in the striking new Loden Green colourway, alongside classic Black and White options.
The HUAWEI nova 13 Series redefines front-camera photography with its 60 MP Ultra-Wide Front Camera and innovative features like the AI Best Expression. The ultra-wide angle allows users to effortlessly capture group selfies with everyone in the frame and showcase breathtaking scenery without the need for a selfie stick. The AI Best Expression feature ensures every group photo is flawless by selecting the best expressions from burst shots. The 5X Selfie Zoom expands the creative possibilities enabling close-up portraits, and delivering detailed and cinematic-quality selfies. With the new 100 W HUAWEI SuperCharge Turbo, the HUAWEI nova 13 Series can charge to 50% in just 10 minutes.
HUAWEI nova 13 Series will be available in UAE before the end of January 2024 at a starting price of AED 1699 through Huawei’s online platforms as well as select retailers.
HUAWEI MatePad 11.5
The HUAWEI MatePad 11.5 features an eye-soothing PaperMatte Display and productivity-boosting upgrades, including an enhanced HUAWEI Notes app. Designed with students and light-duty office workers in mind, this versatile tablet empowers users to embrace a paperless experience while enhancing efficiency, whether at school, home, or on the go.
The HUAWEI MatePad 11.3 will be available in UAE next month for AED 1299 through Huawei’s online platforms as well as certified retailers. It will be available in stunning Isle Blue and sleek Space Gray.
HUAWEI FreeClip: Now in Rose Gold
The HUAWEI FreeClip combines cutting-edge audio technology with sleek, fashion-forward aesthetics. Now available in a captivating Rose Gold finish, the latest iteration of the HUAWEI FreeClip introduces a soft pink hue with subtle golden undertones, exuding a sense of romance and understated elegance. Alongside its stylish appeal, the FreeClip incorporates new features like the Dynamic Bass Algorithm, Head Motion Controls, and Drop Reminders. The Drop Reminders feature provides a gentle alert in the remaining earbud if one slips out during use, accompanied by a notification on your phone.
HUAWEI FreeClip in Rose Gold will be available in UAE starting today at a price of AED 699 through Huawei’s online platforms as well as select retailers. Preorder customers will get AED 100 off.
Gadgets
HONOR X9c 5G Review: Robust and Reliable for Everyday Use
The HONOR X9c 5G is a smartphone tailored for those who demand a blend of style and substance. This mid-range smartphone combines cutting-edge technology with robust durability, making it a standout choice for both everyday users and adventurers.
Design and Build Quality
The HONOR X9c 5G sports a sleek, modern design with curved edges, making it comfortable to hold. It is available in four stylish colours: Sunrise Orange, Jade Cyan, Titanium Black, and the one reviewed here, Titanium Purple. Despite its slim profile, measuring just 7.98mm in thickness and weighing 189g, the phone feels sturdy. The slightly matte finish on the back cover helps reduce fingerprint smudges.
Display
This device features a 6.78-inch 120Hz AMOLED display with a resolution of 2412 x 1080 pixels. The vibrant display offers deep, rich colors and a smooth scrolling experience. However, some users might notice slight distortion along the edges due to reflection or glare, especially when using the phone outdoors.
Internal Specs
Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 chip, the HONOR X9c 5G is equipped with 12GB of RAM (expandable to a further 12GB with Honor RAM Turbo) and 256GB of storage. Graphics is handled by Adreno A710. The HONOR X9c 5G handles everyday tasks such as web browsing, messaging, and light gaming smoothly.
While not the most powerful chipset available, it provides reliable performance for its price range. The HONOR X9c 5G runs on MagicOS 8.0 based on Android 14, offering several AI features like Magic Capsule, Magic Portal, and Parallel Space, which enhance the user experience.
Durability
Designed with durability in mind, the HONOR X9c 5G features HONOR Ultra-Bounce Anti-Drop Technology 2.0, providing drop resistance up to 2 meters. It also includes a triple-layer water resistance structure for 360° protection against water and dust. The phone has an IP65M rating, making it suitable for various environments, from kitchens to outdoor activities.
It can operate in temperatures ranging from -30°C to 55°C, ensuring functionality in extreme weather conditions. The SGS Comprehensive Reliability Certification further confirms the phone’s high standards of reliability and durability.
Camera
The HONOR X9c 5G boasts a dual-rear camera setup, featuring a 108MP main camera and a 5MP wide-angle shooter. The main camera captures detailed and vibrant photos, while the wide-angle camera excels in landscape shots. The front camera, a 16MP shooter, is perfect for selfies. AI-powered features like AI Eraser and AI Motion Sensing enhance the camera performance.
Battery Life
One of the standout features of the HONOR X9c 5G is its large 6600mAh battery. It supports 66W fast charging via USB-C, allowing for quick top-ups. According to Honor, the phone can provide up to 19.8 hours of online video playback on a single charge, making it ideal for users needing long-lasting battery life.
Verdict
Overall, the HONOR X9c 5G is a solid mid-range smartphone that offers a good balance of performance, durability, and features. Its large battery, durable design, and vibrant display make it a compelling choice for users seeking a reliable and stylish device.
Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or someone who needs a phone that can withstand daily wear and tear, the HONOR X9c 5G stands out with its robust build and certifications. It thus is an excellent choice for those who prioritise durability.
Price: AED 1299
HONOR X9c 5G AED 1299
Summary
Designed with durability in mind, the HONOR X9c 5G features HONOR Ultra-Bounce Anti-Drop Technology 2.0, providing drop resistance up to 2 meters. It also includes a triple-layer water resistance structure for 360° protection against water and dust.
User Review
( votes)Gadgets
Anker Launches New Lineup of High-Speed USB-C Chargers
Anker has announced its new line of high-speed USB-C chargers will be available exclusively today on apple.com and select Apple retail locations worldwide. This collaboration underscores a shared commitment to sustainable innovation, with Anker’s new chargers incorporating 75% post-consumer recycled plastics—demonstrating a significant step towards reducing environmental impact without compromising performance.
Anker’s new chargers come in several different power capacities: 30W, 50W and 70W each designed to meet different charging needs and capable of charging a range of products such as Apple Watches, AirPods, iPads, MacBooks and more. Featuring GaN (Gallium Nitride) technology, these chargers offer faster charging speeds, reduced heat generation, and a more compact design compared to traditional silicon-based chargers. Additionally, they are built using 75% post-consumer recycled plastics in their casing and recyclable packaging, aligning with eco-conscious consumer preferences.
Equipped with a Dynamic Temperature Sensor and a Power Tuner Chip, these chargers actively monitor temperature and adjust power output to ensure the safety of connected devices. “We’re excited to partner with Apple in our mission to create high-performance, sustainable charging solutions,” said Shaun Xiong, General Manager of Charging & Member of the board of directors, Anker. “These new USB-C chargers represent our dedication to environmental responsibility without sacrificing quality or user experience.”
ANKER Charger (30W) with USB-C Cable (B2657)
- Foldable design with 1 x USB-C
- Includes a 5-foot USB-C charging cable
- Can charge an iPhone up to 50% in just 30 minutes
- Supports high-speed charging for the Apple Watch, AirPods, iPhone, iPad, MacBook Air and more
- Colour: White
- Price: AED 159
ANKER Charger (50W, 2 ports) (A2689)
- Foldable design with 2 x USB-C
- Supports high-speed charging for the Apple Watch, AirPods, iPhone, iPad, MacBook Air and more
- Colour: White
- Price: AED 199
ANKER Charger (70W, 3 ports) (A2604)
- Foldable design with 3 x USB-C
- Supports high-speed charging for the Apple Watch, AirPods, iPhone, iPad, MacBook Pro and more
- Colour: White
Price: AED 319
These new Anker chargers are available for purchase on apple.com/ae, and across the UAE in Apple Stores at Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates in Dubai, and Yas Mall in Abu Dhabi. They are also available at select Apple retail locations worldwide.
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