Gadgets
Garmin Launches its Fēnix 8 Series of GPS-Enabled Smartwatches
Garmin UAE, KSA and the Indian sub-continent has announced the launch of the new fēnix 8 series, its next-gen premium multisport GPS smartwatches. Designed for anyone who wants to push beyond their limits, the fēnix 8 series offers either a bright AMOLED display or a solar charging display for even greater battery life. Introducing advanced strength training features, dive capabilities, an internal speaker and mic and more, fēnix 8 series has elevated the smartwatch game to new heights. Boasting incredible battery life, it’s easy to explore more; the 51mm AMOLED model offers up to 29 days of battery life in smartwatch mode while the 51mm solar model with an always-on display offers up to 48 days.
“Having the opportunity to unveil the next generation fēnix to such a prestigious room of industry leaders was an honour and it is our pride to bring to the region the next level for smartwatches. Whether a seasoned athlete or someone looking to simply improve their well-being, the fēnix 8 series is the perfect fit,” Abdulaziz Abdulla, Group Managing Director – AMIT International Group.
“It takes something special to make this much of an impact in the sports and technology field and the fēnix 8 series is nothing short of sensational. From the AMOLED or solar display to the two-way messaging system and 40-meter dive capability all tested to U.S Military standards, this smartwatch has set a new standard,” Tim Spurling, General Manager Middle East, North Africa, Central Asia and India, Fitness, Outdoor and Marine at Garmin.
Features:
- AMOLED or solar: Choose between a bright AMOLED display or an always-on display with a solar charging lens that harnesses the power of the sun even better, resulting in fēnix 8 – 51mm providing 50% more solar power than its predecessor1. Both models also feature refreshed graphics. The AMOLED option is available in three sizes – 43mm, 47mm or 51mm – while the solar charging option is available in 47mm or 51mm.
- Rugged design: All models feature leakproof metal buttons, and a new sensor guard to help protect essential sensors and have been tested to U.S. military standards for thermal, shock and water resistance. And premium materials like an optional titanium bezel and optional scratch-resistant sapphire lens are built to endure, even in the harshest of conditions.
- Built-in speaker and microphone: Make and take phone calls from the watch when paired with a compatible smartphone. Certain voice commands can be activated right from the watch—no phone connection is required.
- Built-in LED flashlight: Quickly control the flashlight’s brightness right from the display. Variable intensities, a red light and strobe mode can help provide greater awareness in dark environments—like during a training run, searching for a lost toy under the couch, reading a menu at a dimly-lit restaurant and more.
- Advanced strength training: Elevate performance with targeted, 4-6-week strength training plans to help meet personal goals, plus sport-specific workouts for athletes of all types, including trail runners, surfers, skiers and more.
- Dive capabilities: Dive in with a 40-meter dive-rated case, leakproof metal buttons and support for scuba and apnea dive activities.
- Garmin Messenger app: Communicate with family and friends via two-way text messaging right from the watch.
- Advanced mapping and navigation: View terrain contours on TopoActive maps3 and access preloaded maps for thousands of golf courses and ski resorts around the world. A new map interface allows users to easily customize map layers to get the most out of their navigation. While exploring, enter a distance on the watch and receive suggested routes to stay on track and on time with dynamic round-trip routing.
No matter the adventure, fēnix 8 series can help all types of athletes. Every morning, a training readiness score can help determine if it’s a good day to go hard or take it easy, while advanced training metrics like endurance score, hill score, VO2 max, training status and more can help gauge overall performance. During a training session, PacePro provides GPS-based pace guidance for selected courses or distances while grade-adjusted pace provides an equivalent running pace at the same effort on flat ground or when ascending. Meanwhile, ClimbPro displays real-time information on current and upcoming climbs.
To prepare for the next big race, athletes can view personalized daily suggested workouts that adapt after every run or ride, use free Garmin Coach training plans and reference the race widget for training tips, personalized daily suggested workouts and more. New activities like apnea and scuba diving join dozens of preloaded activities – including running, whitewater rafting, golfing and pickleball, plus team sports like soccer to help users stay active.
Whether working out at a gym or home, fēnix 8 series tracks activities like strength, cardio, yoga and HIIT. Users can also follow animated cardio, strength, yoga and Pilates workouts right on their watch screen. Explorers can also keep track of their adventures with insights for snowboarding, XC skiing, surfing, mountain biking and more. While out skiing, users can now track how much time they spend on different difficulties throughout the day at thousands of resorts worldwide.
Ready for any adventure, fēnix 8 series is packed with premium mapping features to help explorers stay on track. Available on fēnix 8 Sapphire models, preloaded TopoActive maps provide a multi-continent mapping from around the world. An Outdoor Maps+ subscription provides explorers with premium mapping content, like satellite imagery and enhanced topographic maps right on the watch. Meanwhile, SatIQ and multi-band GPS help provide superior positioning accuracy in challenging environments—all while optimizing battery life. Before heading out, adventurers can create or find existing courses in Garmin Connect and seamlessly sync them to their watch to get turn-by-turn directions. While out exploring, users can navigate trails with the NextFork Map Guide or the built-in altimeter, barometer and 3-axis electronic compass.
Loaded with 24/7 health monitoring features, fēnix 8 series includes wrist-based Pulse Ox5, Body Battery energy monitoring, jet lag adviser, advanced sleep monitoring, nap detection and more. Upon waking, users can receive a morning report that provides a customized look at last night’s sleep, their training outlook and Heart Rate Variability (HRV) Status. While on the go, fēnix 8 series lets users: share saved locations, courses and workouts with others who have a compatible Garmin device using Garmin Share; receive smart notifications; download songs from Spotify, Deezer or Amazon Music for phone-free listening; workout with peace of mind with incident detection, assistance and LiveTrack7; breeze through checkout lines with Garmin Pay contactless payments; and more.
The pricing of the fēnix 8 series starts at AED 4283.
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.