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Review: ASUS ZenWiFi XT9

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If you are looking for a highly effective Wi-Fi Mesh system that provides coverage throughout your entire home, then the ASUS ZenWiFi XT9 should be on top of your list. This model is an upgrade from the ASUS ZenWiFi XT8, the first in the ZenWiFi family. One key improvement in the XT9 is the increased speed on the 5GHz band for WiFi clients, now reaching up to 900Mbps.

The ASUS ZenWiFi XT9 mesh system is made up of two ASUS AX7800 tri-band WiFi 6 mesh routers. These feature advanced technologies to provide fast, reliable, and secure WiFi connections for streaming videos, gaming, and seamless connectivity for all your smart IoT devices.

According to ASUS, the ZenWiFi XT9 WiFi 6 mesh system is capable of supporting 160MHz bandwidth, resulting in increased wireless network capacity and speeds. It offers a total bandwidth of up to 7800Mbps, making it up to 2.6 times faster than tri-band AC3000 (WiFi 5) routers.

The ASUS ZenWiFi XT9 mesh system features the latest ASUS RangeBoost Plus technology and the Broadcom WiFi 6 chipset. This significantly enhances the WiFi signal range and overall coverage, thus allowing you to experience seamless WiFi coverage for spaces of up to 5700 square feet with the two-unit package.

The ZenWiFi XT9 is available in four variants and two colours. These include a 2-unit white package, a 1-unit white package, a 2-unit black package, and a 1-unit black package. ASUS sent us the 2-unit white package variant for this review.

Inside the box, you get two ASUS AX7800 tri-band WiFi 6 mesh routers, an RJ-45 cable, a couple of power adapters, a warranty card, and a quick start guide. Both the routers come with ports such as one RJ45 for 2.5G BaseT for WAN, three RJ45 ports for Gigabits BaseT for LAN, and a USB 3.2 Gen 1 port.

Setting up a mesh network using the ASUS ZenWiFi XT9 is a walk in the park. All you need to do is download the ASUS Router mobile app, which is available for both Android and iOS devices, and then follow the simple onscreen instructions. If you are using a 2-unit package, one of the units is the main router which needs to be configured first and then you can move on to configuring the second unit.

The ASUS ZenWiFi XT9 works with OK Google or Alexa Skills for hands-free control of your router. The ZenWiFi XT9 performs exceptionally well in terms of speed. Its 5GHz radios have a quoted maximum speed of 4,808 Mbits/sec, though 160MHz is only available on the backhaul band. In our Wi-Fi 5 testing, it was the fastest mesh system overall.

Even in our Wi-Fi 6 testing, the ASUS ZenWiFi XT9 mesh network performed very well. One standout feature of the ZenWiFi nodes is the inclusion of four Gigabit Ethernet ports and a 10Gbits/sec USB socket, which can be used for storage, printing, and modem duties. This level of connectivity is not often seen in mesh products – so kudos to ASUS for including a boatload of connectivity options.

The ASUS ZenWiFi XT9 high-performance Mesh Wi-Fi system is an excellent choice for those seeking a fast mesh network for both wireless clients and the backhaul network.

If you plan to connect the XT9 nodes via WiFi, this model is particularly suitable as it combines the best features of the XT8 (simultaneous triple band) and the XD6 (160MHz channel width on the 5GHz band). Overall, the ASUS ZenWiFi XT9 is a great place to start if you are looking to set up a mesh network at your home.

Price: AED 2899 (2 unit pack)

ASUS ZenWiFi XT9 AED 2899 (2 unit pack)
  • Final Rating
4

Summary

The ASUS ZenWiFi XT9 works with OK Google or Alexa Skills for hands-free control of your router. The ZenWiFi XT9 performs exceptionally well in terms of speed.

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Digital Cameras

Sony Launches RX1R III Full-Frame Compact Camera with 61MP Sensor and AI Capabilities

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Sony today announced the highly anticipated RX1R III, the third generation of its RX1R series, a premium compact camera featuring a fixed lens. This new model boasts a 61-megapixel 35mm full-frame Exmor R CMOS image sensor, the latest BIONZ XR image processing engine, and a ZEISS Sonnar T 35mm F2 lens.

The RX1R III’s combination of the 61-megapixel full-frame Exmor R back-illuminated CMOS image sensor and the BIONZ XR image processing engine delivers high resolution and sensitivity, coupled with low noise and a wide dynamic range. The sensor surface includes an AR (Anti-Reflection) coating and omits the optical low-pass filter to achieve superior image quality. The integrated lens is optimized at the micron level, ensuring excellent image quality and high optical performance within a compact form factor.

To ensure accurate and effortless shooting, the RX1R III incorporates the latest AI processing unit, a feature valued in Sony’s top-of-the-line professional Alpha cameras. This AI unit can accurately recognize subject shape and movement, eye position, human bodies, and heads, allowing it to track subjects even when their faces are not visible, for both still images and videos. The image sensor’s capture area covers approximately 78% with up to 693 densely arranged phase-detection AF points.

Despite its fixed lens, the camera offers the versatility of three prime lenses through its Step Crop Shooting function, enabling users to switch between focal lengths equivalent to 35mm, 50mm, and 70mm via assigned buttons or dials. When shooting in RAW format, users can reselect the focal length during post-production. The lens’s macro ring allows instant switching to macro mode, enabling close-up shots as near as 20 cm with a maximum magnification of 0.26x.

For creators seeking unique and personalized visuals, the RX1R III offers twelve built-in Creative Looks. Adjustments to hue, saturation, brightness, contrast, and sharpness can be applied to both still images and videos. Notable Creative Looks include FL2 for a nostalgic expression with subdued colors, and FL3 for a more vibrant image.

Crafted from lightweight yet highly rigid magnesium alloy, the RX1R III balances aesthetics and functionality. Its design maintains excellent operability and expandability, with dials and the Multi-Interface (MI) Shoe embedded into the camera body, featuring a flat top surface. The grip design and surface texture provide a secure and comfortable hold.

The camera is equipped with an electronic viewfinder boasting an approximately 2.36 million-dot XGA OLED with high resolution and contrast, offering a magnification of approximately 0.70x. The RX1R III uses the rechargeable battery pack NP-FW50, capable of capturing up to 300 still images. It also features a USB Type-C port for rapid charging with USB Power Delivery-compatible devices or for connecting external power sources like mobile batteries for extended shooting sessions.

In alignment with Sony’s ‘Road to Zero’ initiative, the RX1R III supports the company’s vision for achieving a zero environmental footprint by 2050. Manufacturing facilities for Sony imaging products, including the RX1R III, operate on 100% renewable electricity. The camera’s packaging utilizes Sony’s proprietary environmentally friendly Original Blended Material instead of plastic. The camera system also includes comprehensive accessibility options, such as a Screen Reader function and Display Magnification, to support visually impaired users across an expanded range of menu items.

Optional accessories for the RX1R III include the TG-2 dedicated thumb grip , the LCS-RXL compact body case , and the LHP-1 lens hood. The RX1R III will be available in selected countries in the Middle East starting from September 2025.

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Gadgets

Nothing Unveils Flagship Phone (3) and Headphone (1) at Dubai’s Museum of the Future

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Nothing has marked a significant moment in technology and design with the official launch of its latest innovations, the Nothing Phone (3) and Headphone (1), at the prestigious Museum of the Future in Dubai. Nothing became one of the first smartphone brands to host an event at this architectural marvel, showcasing its dedication to pushing boundaries and reimagining the future of personal technology.

The launch event, held in collaboration with Creators HQ, brought together a diverse group of local, regional, and global media, alongside leading content creators from across the Middle East and beyond. Against the futuristic backdrop of the museum, attendees experienced firsthand how Nothing’s new products blend cutting-edge technology with bold, expressive design.

Rishi Kishor Gupta, Regional Director of Nothing MEA, emphasized the significance of the venue, stating, “Hosting our launch at the Museum of the Future is symbolic of what Nothing stands for – innovation, creativity, and a relentless drive to shape the future of technology. With Nothing Phone (3) and Headphone (1), we’re not just delivering devices; we’re delivering experiences that inspire individuality and empower people to connect, create, and express themselves in ways they never imagined.”

Alia Al Hammadi, Deputy Chairperson of the UAE Government Media Office and CEO of the 1 Billion Followers Summit, highlighted Dubai’s growing role as a hub for innovation, “The UAE continues to solidify its position as a global hub for innovation and creativity. Hosting the launch of Nothing’s new products in Dubai further proves the attractiveness of our environment for creators and pioneering businesses alike. It enables a new generation of content creators to produce meaningful content at the intersection of creativity and technology”. She further added, “Creators HQ is a nurturing space for innovation, driving the growth of the creator economy and offering talented influencers world-class tools and a stimulating interactive environment.”

Abdulaziz AlJaziri, Deputy CEO of the Dubai Future Foundation, commented on the UAE’s leadership in future technologies, “The UAE has firmly established itself as a global leader in advancing future technologies and nurturing companies and talent in this space. Our infrastructure and digital capabilities uniquely position us as a key player in shaping the future of tech.” He continued, “Hosting this global product launch by Nothing at the Museum of the Future reflects the strong interest of global tech giants, startups, and entrepreneurs in being part of the UAE’s innovation ecosystem. From AI and digitization to the creator economy and new media, our country offers unparalleled opportunities across emerging sectors, especially advanced technology and communications. This reflects the UAE’s deep commitment to developing innovative solutions that accelerate progress and human prosperity.”

The event introduced attendees to the unique features of the Nothing Phone (3), Nothing’s latest flagship smartphone, and Headphone (1), its debut over-ear headphones. Both products showcase Nothing’s iconic design language, combining transparent elements, premium materials, and user-centric functionality.

The Nothing Phone (3) is designed to inspire creativity, featuring the all-new Glyph Matrix, a pro-grade camera system, and next-gen performance powered by Snapdragon® 8s Gen 4. It aims to be a device that sparks individuality and makes technology feel personal again. The Headphone (1), crafted for audiophiles and everyday listeners, delivers immersive sound engineered in collaboration with KEF, intuitive tactile controls, and a striking transparent design. Live demonstrations at the event highlighted the seamless integration of both devices into daily life and their potential to redefine user interaction with technology.

As part of the regional rollout, Nothing announced an exclusive #100Drops activation on July 17th at 7 PM at Sharaf DG, Dubai Mall. This highly anticipated event offers fans and early adopters the chance to be among the first to own the Nothing Phone (3) and Headphone (1). Both devices will be available in black and white variants, with open sales commencing on July 18, 2025, across key retail partners in the UAE and Saudi Arabia.

The Nothing Phone 3 (12GB+256GB) is priced at AED 2,999; the Nothing Phone 3 (16GB+512GB) is priced at AED 3,299, and the Nothing Headphone 1 is priced at AED 999. As part of the launch, customers purchasing the Nothing Phone 3 will receive complimentary Nothing Ear (a) with the 256GB variant and Nothing Ear with the 512GB variant. Additionally, for a limited time until August 3, 2025, customers buying the 12GB/256GB variant of the Nothing Phone (3) can avail a free upgrade to the 16GB/512GB variant and will also receive a complimentary Nothing Ear.

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Creator Tools

Logitech Intros Affordable Wireless Keyboards and Combos for Everyday Productivity

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Logitech has announced the upcoming availability of its most affordable wireless keyboard lineup yet: the Logitech K250 Bluetooth Keyboard and the MK250 Bluetooth Combo. These new products aim to make reliable wireless productivity accessible to everyone, offering easy Bluetooth connectivity, familiar comfort, and durable design at a budget-friendly price.

“At Logitech, we’re committed to making great design and reliable technology available to as many people as possible,” said Elza Ovsyannikova, Category Manager of Logitech’s Personal Workspace Solutions in the Middle East. “With K250 and the MK250 Combo, users can experience the freedom of wireless with the quality and durability they expect from Logitech, all at an affordable price.”

The Logitech K250 Bluetooth Keyboard proves that affordability doesn’t mean compromising on quality. It features a full layout with arrow keys, a numeric keypad, and predefined F-key shortcuts, providing a familiar and smooth typing experience for hours of uninterrupted productivity.

Designed for modern workspaces, the K250 has a slim, space-saving Graphite colored silhouette and includes adjustable tilt legs for a comfortable 7-degree typing angle. Its Bluetooth pairing ensures quick, reliable connections across various operating systems, including Windows, macOS, and ChromeOS, and is certified to Work With Chromebook (WWCB), requiring no dongles or software. Built for durability, the K250 boasts a spill-resistant design, durable construction using recycled plastic, and an impressive battery life of over 12 months.

For users seeking an easy all-in-one solution, the MK250 Bluetooth Combo pairs the K250 Keyboard with the versatile M196 Wireless Mouse. The M196 mouse is designed for comfortable, ambidextrous use, featuring smooth optical tracking and fluid line-by-line scrolling for precise navigation. Together, the MK250 Combo offers a 12-month battery life for both the keyboard and mouse, seamless Bluetooth® connectivity, and Logitech’s trusted design quality, making it ideal for work, study, and daily multitasking.

Logitech continues its commitment to sustainable design with the K250 Keyboard and MK250 Combo. Both products incorporate post-consumer recycled plastic in their plastic parts to help reduce environmental impact, while their paper packaging comes from FSC-certified forests and other controlled sources.

The Logitech K250 Bluetooth Keyboard and MK250 Bluetooth Combo will be available in Graphite with an Arabic keyboard layout starting in July 2025 at major retailers.

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