The HUAWEI Mate 80 Pro starts from R21,999 or R839 per month over 36 months and will be available from 07 April 2026 via HUAWEI’s official online store and selected retailers. Customers can unlock a range of added value, including premium accessories, service benefits and 200GB of HUAWEI Mobile Cloud storage free for the first month, exclusive to the Mate 80 Pro. T&Cs apply.

See colour as it was meant to be

The True-to-Colour Camera System of the HUAWEI Mate 80 Pro addresses some of mobile photography’s biggest challenges, including accurate colour reproduction across varied lighting conditions, delivering consistent and true-to-life colours in any environment. Its larger pixel size significantly boosts light intake, ensuring precise colours and fine detail even in low-light scenarios. Colour consistency is maintained seamlessly when switching between the main, ultra-wide and telephoto lenses.

From dramatic backlit portraits to the subtle tones of a sunset, capturing detail across extremes of light and distance has long posed challenges for smartphone photography. The HUAWEI Mate 80 Pro addresses this with advanced DCG HDR technology, enhancing dynamic range by up to 300% to preserve both highlight detail and shadow colour without distortion.

At the same time, its 5cm telephoto macro capability brings added versatility, allowing users to move effortlessly between intricate close-up shots and crisp long-range photography, transforming everyday scenes into striking, detail-rich images.

Designed to go further, built to last

Durability takes centre stage in the HUAWEI Mate 80 Pro, with a design engineered to handle the realities of daily use without compromise. Equipped with 2nd Generation Kunlun Glass, the HUAWEI Mate 80 Pro display features high-strength nanocrystals for enhanced durability. It offers up to 20x greater drop resistance than conventional glass, significantly reducing the risk of screen damage.

The back panel is crafted from ultra-durable vegan fibre, offering a silky-smooth texture that feels refined and elegant in hand. Its impact resistance is enhanced by up to 5x, allowing the device to withstand daily bumps and scrapes while maintaining its pristine appearance.

With IP68 water resistance and IP69 resistance to high-temperature, high-pressure water jets, along with a multi-layer sealing design, the device delivers comprehensive protection against water and dust intrusion.

Sustained power, seamless performance

Designed for demanding days, the HUAWEI Mate 80 Pro combines long-lasting battery life with ultra-fast charging to keep you moving without interruption. The HUAWEI Mate 80 Pro is powered by a massive 5750mAh battery, easily supporting all-day usage. It supports 100W wired SuperCharge and 80W wireless SuperCharge for fast and convenient charging.

Now with the SuperCool Dual Phase Change Heat Dissipation System, the device remains cooler during extended, demanding use. This ensures consistently smooth performance for tasks such as gaming, live streaming and creative work.

Thanks to a 21% improvement in overall system performance, the HUAWEI Mate 80 Pro handles demanding tasks with ease, delivering smoother workflows and a consistently responsive experience without compromising power efficiency.

The HUAWEI Mate 80 Pro also features the X-True™ 2.5D Sleek Flat-Edged Display. With a 1–120 Hz LTPO adaptive refresh rate, it intelligently adjusts frame rates based on usage, delivering both fluid visuals and improved energy efficiency. The display reaches an ultra-high peak brightness of 3000 nits.

Pricing and availability

Step into a flagship experience that gives you more from day one. Pricing for the HUAWEI Mate 80 Pro starts from R21,999 or R839 per month over 36 months via HUAWEI’s official online store and selected retailers. Customers will receive a range of value-added benefits, including the HUAWEI Band 10 and HUAWEI FreeBuds SE 2. Ts and Cs apply.

In addition, HUAWEI Mate 80 Pro users can enjoy an exclusive 200GB HUAWEI Mobile Cloud storage subscription free for the first month, making it easy to securely back up photos, apps, and important files from day one.

T&Cs apply. Pricing and availability may vary by retailer.

The post The new HUAWEI Mate 80 Pro is now available in South Africa appeared first on Stuff South Africa.

The PRO X2 SUPERSTRIKE is available now at Computer Mania, Takealot, Evetech, and Wootware.

A world record that proves a point

Before the PRO X2 SUPERSTRIKE even reached shelves, it had already made history. On 11 March 2026, professional FUT Esports player Yiğit Arslan – known by his gaming alias “Yigox” – officially set the Guinness World Records™ title for the Most Mouse Clicks in 60 Seconds, achieving 760 clicks in one minute using the PRO X2 SUPERSTRIKE.

The record attempt was conducted at the FUT House, FUT Esports’ official professional training facility in Istanbul, and was completed under strict Guinness World Records guidelines, supervised by an official adjudicator.

“Breaking a Guinness World Records title is an incredible achievement,” said Arslan. “My equipment played a critical role. With a standard office mouse, I couldn’t exceed around 550 clicks in 60 seconds. With PRO X2 SUPERSTRIKE, I consistently surpassed 750 clicks in testing. Officially setting this record is something I’m
extremely proud of.”

The 38% improvement over a standard mouse is a direct result of SUPERSTRIKE technology – a system that fundamentally rethinks how a gaming mouse registers a click.

What is Superstrike technology?

At the heart of the PRO X2 SUPERSTRIKE is the Haptic Inductive Trigger System (HITS), which replaces the traditional mechanical microswitches found in conventional gaming mice with a fully analogue system built around inductive sensing and real-time haptic feedback.

Reduced click latency by up to 30 milliseconds – a significant advantage in competitive play where fractions of a millisecond determine outcomes.

Inductive Analogue Sensing: Using copper coils to generate an electromagnetic field, the system delivers 0.6mm of click travel with 10 levels of actuation point adjustment and 5 rapid trigger reset levels. Players can fine-tune responsiveness to match their exact playstyle.

Real-Time Haptic Feedback: Haptic actuators deliver tactile confirmation the moment a click registers and again when the key resets – giving players precise, physical feedback in high-pressure scenarios. Feedback intensity is adjustable from levels 1 to 5 via Logitech G HUB software.

“The difference feels like going from playing on public internet servers to playing on LAN,” said Caps, midlaner for G2 Esports, during early testing.

Pulling the trigger: The South African launch

To mark the South African launch of the PRO X2 SUPERSTRIKE, Logitech G hosted an experiential event at Tactical HQ, Fourways Mall – and took a deliberately unexpected approach. Rather than a standard product showcase, guests were invited to fire real firearms on the shooting range before stepping across to a Call of
Duty: Black Ops 7 gaming station to compete in-game using the PRO X2 SUPERSTRIKE.

The concept was deliberate: blur the line between fiction and reality. Guests worked through four weapon types – pistol, rifle, shotgun, and sniper rifle – in both the physical and virtual environments, and were asked to focus on a specific sensation in each: the adrenaline of hitting a target, and the physical feedback that confirmed the moment of impact. On the range, that feedback is unmistakable. In-game, it is delivered by the PRO X2 SUPERSTRIKE’s haptic inductive trigger system – a tactile pulse at the precise moment a click registers, mirroring the physical confidence of firing a real weapon.

The activation brought to life exactly what SUPERSTRIKE technology is designed to do: translate a real-world physical sensation into the game world, so that the gap between intent and action – whether on a range or in a firefight – is as small as possible.

Built for the pinnacle of competitive play

Beyond SUPERSTRIKE technology, the PRO X2 SUPERSTRIKE is engineered
across every dimension for professional performance:

• HERO 2 Sensor with ‘Power of 8’ technology: 8 kHz polling rate via LIGHTSPEED Wireless, 88G acceleration, 888 IPS tracking, and up to 44,000 DPI with zero smoothing, filtering, or acceleration.
• Ultra-lightweight construction: Target weight of just 65 grams for effortless, extended use.
• 90-hour battery life: Continuous, uninterrupted performance through marathon sessions and tournament play.
• Zero-additive PTFE mouse feet with curve-cut edges for seamless movement across all surfaces.
• Developed in collaboration with elite esports organisations, including G2 Esports, Falcons Esports, NAVI, and BLG.

Availablity

The Logitech G PRO X2 SUPERSTRIKE is available now at the following authorised
South African retailers:

• Computer Mania
• Takealot
• Evetech
• Wootware

The post Logitech G brings the world’s fastest click to South Africa with the Pro X2 Superstrike appeared first on Stuff South Africa.

With graphics card costs jumping 15-20% annually and RAM prices surging by up to 250%, putting together a solid rig feels more expensive than ever, and that’s before you even think about the peripherals. A fast mechanical keyboard, a high-DPI mouse, and a gaming headset that can actually handle daily wear and tear can easily set you back another R4,000 to R 8,000. Your alternative is no better: buying cheap, flimsy hardware, crossing your fingers, and hoping it will last longer than six months before you have to replace it.

That’s exactly where Volkano Gaming steps in. They’ve officially entered the premium gaming peripherals market, dropping a brand-new range of gear that packs flagship-level specs at prices that make sense. They’re offering the perfect middle ground, wrapping up top-tier tech in a price tag that lets your wallet breathe a little.

The Arc Series Mice

Volkano Gaming’s new mice are all about eliminating drag and boosting precision. Both models in the Arc series weigh in at a gravity-defying 51 grams, making them featherweight pocket rockets built for fast, low-effort gliding. They both offer total connectivity freedom with seamless tri-mode capabilities (2.4G wireless, Bluetooth, or wired USB) so you can match your setup perfectly. Under the hood, they utilize top-tier gaming-grade PAW-3311 sensors, ensuring your tracking remains flawlessly accurate when the match comes down to the wire.

This model packs adjustable sensitivity up to 12,000 DPI and a blazing 1,000 Hz polling rate for lightning-fast response times. Its durable HUNUO switches are rugged enough to survive 50 million clicks, and the rechargeable 400 mAh battery gives you total wireless freedom without the dread of your mouse dying mid-game.

Stepping things up, the Ultra-Light boasts 35G acceleration and a massive software-expandable DPI range from 50 all the way to 24,000. Every input feels crisp thanks to ultra-durable TTC main switches rated for a staggering 60 million clicks, all backed by a beefy 500 mAh battery for even longer sessions.

Keyboards: tactile response, tailored to you

Whether you’re a late-night gamer trying to be a bit more noise-conscious or you’re someone who loves the feel and sound of mechanical clicks, Volkano Gaming’s keyboard lineup has you covered. The entire range focuses on durability, tactile responsiveness, and seriously cool aesthetics. Every keyboard features full-key anti-ghosting to ensure every command registers accurately, alongside vibrant, customizable RGB backlighting to elevate your desk’s atmosphere and set the perfect mood.

Your ultimate late-night companion. Equipped with a silent key membrane, it delivers a satisfyingly stable key touch without waking the whole house, and includes dedicated multimedia controls for easy volume adjustments.

This keyboard is best suited for the more traditional gamers. Built for speed and precision, this 104-key powerhouse features linear Red switches for smooth, rapid, and surprisingly responsive keystrokes. You’ll never have a mis-input moment in the heat of battle thanks to full-key anti-ghosting. It also brings serious aesthetic flair to your desk with 22 customizable rainbow lighting effects and adjustable brightness levels.

A sleek 82-key TKL designed to free up vital desk space. It offers tri-mode connectivity, an audio control knob, and Outemu self-lubricating mechanical switches rated for 50 million presses. Packed with durable 3-color PBT double-shot keycaps and a massive 4000mAh battery, it’s a flagship-tier experience.

The acoustic masterpiece. Ditching the control knob for a classic 87-key layout, it features smooth Red switches and an upgraded five-layer gasket mount for incredibly refined sound. The real kicker? A monstrous 8,000 mAh battery that literally doubles your wireless playtime.

Headsets: Flawless Audio Advantage

An incredible rig means nothing if you can’t hear the enemy sneaking up on you. Volkano Gaming’s new headsets are designed to deliver a massive acoustic advantage without causing neck strain during those marathon sessions. Across the board, these headsets utilize high-performance drivers and highly sensitive microphones to ensure that both your incoming audio and your outgoing team comms are crystal clear, balanced, and lively.

The heavyweight champion. It packs beefy 50mm drivers for thunderous sound and features ultra-low latency (under 30ms) on its 2.4GHz connection. What truly sets it apart is the dual-microphone setup, combining an inner ENC mic with a detachable ENC boom mic to completely eliminate background noise and deliver top-tier voice clarity.

The Eclipse Tri-Mode Ultra-Lightweight Gaming Headset is your go-to. Engineered specifically to eliminate fatigue during those all-night gaming marathons, this ultra-light headset delivers incredibly lively and balanced audio.

A plug-and-play daily driver relying on a rock-solid wired connection, so you never panic about a dead battery. 50mm drivers pump out full-range audio with impactful bass, while the unidirectional boom mic zeroes in on your voice for clear squad callouts.

The post Volkano Gaming: Quality without compromise for your budget gaming setup appeared first on Stuff South Africa.

The Xiaomi TV Stick and Xiaomi TV Box S (3rd Gen) aren’t just for streaming newbies. You wouldn’t believe how even smart TVs purchased in the last couple of years have fallen behind the competition. An ageing processor is a surefire way to give yourself a headache. Now, with Xiaomi’s solutions in hand (or in-TV), you can put those concerns to rest. 

Allow Mi to explain

Xiaomi TV Box S (3rd Gen) | R1,399 RRP

If you’re serious about your new streaming ambitions, then you should probably have Xiaomi’s TV Box S by your side. Or rather, your TV’s side. There’s an argument to be made that it adds to the decor, but it’s also small enough to be tucked out of sight. The real winner, though? 4K streaming made simple with the help of Google TV.

Set-up is as simple as putting the cables in the right holes. One of those is your standard HDMI, which delivers 4K UHD and HDR10+ support. If tech specs usually inspire a yawn, worry not. You can rest assured knowing that the image quality is that much more vivid than the rest of the competition, whether it’s tackling sport, soapies, or Marty Supreme.

Don’t discount the TV Box S’ superior navigation. Even if you’re technically content with that decades-old smart TV in the guest room, guests… won’t be. Using Xiaomi’s next-gen processor, the TV Box S is blazing fast, dashing from app to app before you’ve even had time to think. Typing, too, is blistering, an experience that’s elevated by a fantastic remote.

Do you hear that? It’s the sound of your TV, just begging to be put out of its misery. Give it the gift of the Xiaomi TV Box S (3rd Gen) (R1,399 RRP) today!

Never stop loving Mi, Xiaomi

Xiaomi Mi TV Stick | R799 RRP

Want to bring your content along for the ride? The Xiaomi Mi TV Stick slips into a backpack or suitcase just as easily as it does your pocket. Like its boxier brethren, the Mi TV Stick doesn’t need much to get itself going. A single HDMI port (and USB port) is all that’s needed to turn a… less reputable TV into a properly smart entertainment hub.

It looks the part, too. It may not hit 4K, but if your TV caps out at 1080p, then it doesn’t really matter. Instead, it gets by with that 1080p output, working with 1GB of RAM and 8GB of storage. That’s more than enough juice to sustain an incredibly smooth experience, bolstered by Google running the software show. 

Capping it all off comes the ergonomic dream that is Xiaomi’s excellent remote control. With easy access to your favourite apps, and a built-in Google Assistant, you’ll never have trouble landing on a movie to watch with the rest of the family.

Whether you’re inviting the Mi TV Stick into your home or suitcase for an unbeatable price of R799 RRP, or showing up your mates with the definitive streaming solution that is the TV Box S (3rd Gen), you can’t go wrong with Xiaomi’s incredible deals!

The post Old TV, new tricks: Xiaomi makes streaming easy and affordable appeared first on Stuff South Africa.

Incredible budget-friendly notebooks

The Lenovo IdeaPad 3 i5 13420H 16GB/512GB is the shining star. With a solid Core i5 chip, 16GB of RAM, and a 512GB SSD, this is the one for students who need a machine that can genuinely keep up. From lecture notes and research tabs to presentations, video calls, and deadline-fuelled multitasking.

The HP 15s Ryzen 3 7320U 8GB/256GB Bundle is the sensible all-rounder. It covers the essentials for assignments, online learning, and everyday campus admin, while the bundle gives it extra value straight out of the box. For students who want a practical laptop with less upfront pressure, the payment flexibility matters just as much as the price tag.

The Acer Aspire Lite 14 N150 8GB/256GB is the budget hero. It is compact, capable enough for everyday study tasks, and priced for students who need a real laptop without the premium sting. It is proof that “entry-level” does not have to mean “barely coping”.

Smart on-the-go connectivity devices

The Samsung Galaxy A16 128GB makes a lot of sense for students. You are getting enough storage for apps, notes, lecture content, and day-to-day media, plus the everyday reliability needed for messaging, maps, banking, and staying connected on the move. Factor in the strong price and savings, and it stands out as a student-friendly phone that covers the basics well without putting unnecessary pressure on the budget.

Then there’s the Xiaomi Redmi Pad 2 11-inch 4GB/128GB WiFi, a smart study sidekick for PDFs, streaming lectures, note-taking, and everyday entertainment. It is a solid pick for students who want a portable screen that adds convenience without adding too much to the budget.

So, why buy your student tech at Incredible? Because you get more than just the device. With affordable payment options like credit, lay-by, and store account, it’s easier to get the tech you need in a way that suits your budget. You also get added value through services like Walk-out-working setup support, expert advice, and a FREE 3-year warranty on all laptops. Add after-sales support, repairs, and +more, and Incredible gives you smart tech backed by real peace of mind.

The post Incredible shares its Top 5 student laptop and tablet deals for 2026 appeared first on Stuff South Africa.

More than just a break from your routine, a trip like this can be a powerful reset for your mental, physical, and even spiritual well-being – all while helping you grow as an amateur photographer. Here are the top 3 reasons to make a photography tour your next holiday.

It’s a mental reset that sticks

Most holidays help you relax. A photography tour helps you re-engage with the world.

Instead of passively consuming sights, you actively observe them. You notice light, texture, patterns, and fleeting expressions. You wake early for golden hour, linger for sunsets, and look at familiar scenes from new angles. This shift into mindful observation pulls you fully into the present moment – a proven antidote to stress and burnout.

Creative focus quiets mental noise. When you’re adjusting aperture or waiting for the perfect light, your mind isn’t looping through emails, deadlines, or responsibilities back home. You enter a state of flow, that deeply satisfying mental zone where time disappears, and you’re completely immersed in what you’re doing.

Unlike a beach holiday, where relaxation fades quickly once work resumes, a photography tour leaves you with lasting benefits. You return home with sharpened awareness, renewed perspective, and a creative spark that continues long after you unpack your bags.

It nourishes your body & spirit

Photography tours, or workshops for that matter, often involve walking through vibrant cities, hiking scenic trails, or exploring dramatic coastlines and mountains. You’re being active, but with purpose. The motivation to “get the shot” encourages gentle physical activity that feels energising, rather than exhausting.

Spending time outdoors, especially during sunrise and sunset shoots, exposes you to natural light and fresh air. Research consistently shows that time in nature reduces stress hormones, lowers blood pressure, and improves mood. Pair that with the emotional upliftment of creative accomplishment, and the result is a powerful boost to overall well-being.

Yes, there’s something quietly spiritual about an Iceland photography tour, as just one popular example. It invites you to slow down and truly see things. Whether it’s mist rising over a landscape, a local market buzzing with life, or the intricate details of its architecture, you begin to feel more connected – to place, people, and yourself, often led by a hospitality jobs expert.

Travelling with like-minded creatives deepens this experience. Shared sunrises, collaborative problem-solving, and celebrating each other’s images fosters genuine connection. In a world that feels rushed and transactional, that sense of community can be profoundly grounding.

You improve dramatically as a photographer

A photography tour isn’t just a trip… It provides immersive learning.

You’re based within inspiring locations designed for visual storytelling, and are guided by experienced photographers who help you refine technique, composition, and creative vision. Instead of watching tutorials online, you receive real-time feedback in real-world conditions. You experiment with new approaches, step outside of your comfort zone, and gain confidence behind the camera.

Perhaps, most importantly, you develop your eye. Being surrounded by stunning environments trains you to anticipate light, notice small details, and think more intentionally about framing. You begin to move beyond snapshots and towards the creation of images that feature depth and emotion.

When you return home, you don’t just have beautiful photos – you’ve honed new skills and a revitalised passion for your hobby. Photography becomes more than something you “occasionally do”. It becomes an integrated part of your lifestyle and self-expression.

A holiday that gives back – quite profoundly

Going on a photography tour is much more than a period off work. It’s an investment in your creativity, your wellbeing, and your growth.

You step away from your daily routine, immerse yourself in meaningful experiences, move your body, calm your mind, connect with others, and return home creatively recharged. In a single journey, you nurture your mental clarity, physical health, spiritual connection, and artistic development.

If you’re looking for a holiday that truly restores and inspires, a photography tour may be exactly what you need.

Go to https://travex.com/ to see which region appeals to you most.

A look at the equipment you’ll need

• Cameras:
  –a primary camera body plus a backup, if possible. Dust, vibration, and weather can be punishing;
  and
  –DSLRs and mirrorless bodies are both common; choose what you’re comfortable with.
• Lenses (wildlife-focused tour):
  –a telephoto zoom: 100 to 400mm, 150 to 600mm, or similar is the workhorse for mammals and birds;
  –a fast telephoto prime (optional): 300mm or 400mm, with f/2.8–f/4 if you’re serious about wildlife;
  –a wide-angle zoom: 16 to 35mm or equivalent for landscapes, night skies, and environmental animal shots;
  and
  –a standard zoom: 24 to 70mm or similar for lodge life, portraits, and general travel images.
• Lenses (city & landscape tours):
  –ultra-wide i.e., 14 to 24mm or 16 to 35mm;
  –a standard zoom, i.e., 24 to 70mm;
  and
  –short telephoto i.e., 70 to 200mm, for compressed landscapes and candid people shots.

Your tour operator will usually send a packing list; use it, but don’t be afraid to ask follow-up questions about realistic focal length needs for specific destinations.

• Additional items of support, as well accessories, include:
  –a sturdy tripod (especially for waterfalls, night skies, and cityscapes);
  –a beanbag or window supports for safari vehicles;
  –plenty of memory cards and at least one backup drive;
  –raincovers or dry bags for sudden showers
  and
  –cleaning kit (blower, microfiber cloths, or sensor cleaning, if you’re comfortable with it).

The post Top 3 reasons to book a photography tour as your next holiday abroad appeared first on Stuff South Africa.

Citroën is taking a different approach with its All-New Basalt SUV Coupé, due in South Africa at the end of March 2026. Instead of unveiling the full car, the brand is introducing it in fragments.

Close-up visuals of lighting signatures, alloy wheels and interior finishes are being released like a curated collection, each image carrying the line: “You’ll want a piece of it.” Shot more like fashion editorials than automotive renders, the campaign isolates details before revealing the whole.

It’s an unusual move in the B-segment, where most B-SUVs compete on price, fuel economy and monthly repayments. Design is often secondary to practicality. Here, design leads.

The Basalt sits between hatchback and SUV, pairing raised ride height and usable cabin space with a tapering coupé-style roofline and a slightly wider, more assertive stance. The fundamentals remain practical; the presentation is more deliberate.

There’s a broader shift at play, too. As vehicles become more digitally integrated and experience-driven, buyers increasingly evaluate them the way they do other consumer products – through usability, aesthetics and how they fit into daily life.

Full specifications and pricing will follow closer to launch. For now, Citroën is betting that familiarity with the details will make the eventual reveal feel less like a surprise and more like a recognition moment.

In a category not known for drama, that’s a quietly confident play.

Citroën Basalt – You’ll want a piece of it

The post You’ll want a piece of it: Citroën teases the all-new Basalt appeared first on Stuff South Africa.

Built for real life (not just spec sheets)

Whether you’re grinding through varsity assignments, managing spreadsheets for your side hustle, working remotely, or running a small business, what you need isn’t hype, it’s reliability. The Orion notebook range has been developed around everyday computing needs, such as a clean, modern design, practical, dependable performance, fast SSD storage, Windows 11, and excellent value for money. These aren’t laptops built for benchmark bragging rights. They’re built to get the job done smoothly, efficiently, and without drama.

Every Orion notebook comes with Windows 11 pre-installed, meaning you’re not wasting your first afternoon on setup. Incredible empowers you with a Free 3-Year Warranty (upon registration), in-store technical support, nationwide footprint across South Africa and selected SADC countries in Africa. And then there’s a small detail that makes a big difference – Walk-Out-Working, where our TechXperts help you configure your device before you leave the store. No guessing. No Googling and no calling your “IT friends”. That’s not just convenience, but it’s confidence built into the purchase.

In a market with a lot of noise, Orion focuses on consistency and simplicity. You know what you’re getting, and you know it won’t break the budget because you get multiple payment options, such as credit, lay-by, store account, and contract options to choose from.

The Orion notebook range is available at Incredible stores nationwide and online at incredible.co.za.

Upgrade your world with technology that works and value that makes sense.

The post Incredible launches Orion notebooks – Smart performance, real-world value appeared first on Stuff South Africa.

The event also introduced a line-up of flagship products, including the HUAWEI Mate 80 Pro, HUAWEI MatePad Mini, HUAWEI FreeBuds Pro 5, and the HUAWEI Band 11 Series.

Two-time Olympic marathon champion Eliud Kipchoge was officially introduced as the global ambassador for HUAWEI WATCH GT Runner.

“Running means much more than running fast,” said Kipchoge. “I believe that running is the most beautiful activity on every level. Together with Huawei, we can reach millions of runners around the world and hopefully impact their lives in a beautiful and positive way.”

HUAWEI WATCH GT Runner 2

Equipped with a new 3D floating antenna architecture, the HUAWEI WATCH GT Runner 2 is engineered to deliver exceptional positioning accuracy. Powered by an intelligent positioning algorithm, it continues to calculate trajectory and distance even during temporary signal interruptions, helping runners maintain precise data in complex environments.

The new intelligent marathon mode offers comprehensive race management, acting like a personal coach on the wrist. Designed to support professional athletes in optimising performance, it also makes advanced running insights accessible to everyday runners seeking a smarter training experience.

At the event, Kipchoge shared his experience of collaborating with Huawei on product development. “I am passionate about sharing my opinions and perspectives to improve the smartwatch experience, not just for elite athletes but for runners all around the world,” he said.

HUAWEI Mate 80 Pro

Huawei also marked a strong return to the global market with its Mate Series, showcasing the company’s continued technological leadership. The HUAWEI Mate 80 Pro features an upgraded True-to-Color Camera system designed to deliver consistent colour accuracy across complex lighting environments and mixed colour temperatures.

Its refined Dual Space Ring Design blends classic elegance with contemporary aesthetics, drawing strong interest from attendees. With enhanced performance, 2nd Gen Kunlun Glass, and advanced AI capabilities, the Mate 80 Pro further strengthens Huawei’s premium smartphone offering.

HUAWEI WATCH Ultimate 2 and HUAWEI Band 11 Series

Expanding its wearable portfolio, Huawei introduced new devices designed to deliver more personalised and professional fitness experiences.

The HUAWEI WATCH Ultimate 2 debuted in a striking new Green colourway, retaining its advanced diving and outdoor capabilities while introducing enhanced features tailored specifically for golf driving ranges and on-course play.

Meanwhile, the HUAWEI Band 11 Series combines sleek design with practical functionality, featuring a larger, clearer display that ensures excellent visibility even in bright sunlight. Integrating health monitoring, activity tracking, and convenient features into one compact device, it serves as a reliable companion for users’ daily fitness needs.

HUAWEI MatePad Mini and HUAWEI FreeBuds Pro 5

Huawei also unveiled its first-ever Mini tablet, the HUAWEI MatePad Mini. With its compact 8.8-inch form factor, slimmer and lighter than traditional tablets, it fits easily into pockets and handbags. Whether reviewing documents, streaming content, or working on creative projects while travelling, the device is designed for productivity on the move. It serves as a versatile digital companion for professionals, readers, and researchers alike.

Completing the launch line-up, the HUAWEI FreeBuds Pro 5 become the industry’s first wireless earbuds to feature dual-engine AI noise cancellation. Combined with a dual-drive acoustic system, they deliver powerful noise reduction while preserving vocal and instrumental clarity, creating an immersive listening experience.

Last year, Huawei introduced its brand proposition, Now is Yours, reflecting its commitment to building authentic connections with global consumers through a more inclusive and youthful voice. At the Now is Your Run launch event, the partnership with Eliud Kipchoge reinforced Huawei’s ambition to inspire movement and promote healthier lifestyles worldwide.

Looking ahead, Huawei will continue advancing fitness and health innovation, empowering more people to live active, connected, and healthier lives.

The post Now Is Your Run: Huawei unveils next-generation WATCH GT Runner 2 in Madrid appeared first on Stuff South Africa.

The Galaxy S26 series was engineered with Samsung’s most advanced capabilities working together as one: incredible performance, an intuitive camera system and Galaxy AI. This provides a strong foundation that gives Galaxy S26 users the confidence to depend on their phone throughout the day without compromising security or privacy.

Building on Samsung’s decades of innovation in display technology, the Galaxy S26 Ultra introduces the industry’s first built-in Privacy Display for mobile phones to unlock a new class of display experiences and reinforce Samsung’s commitment to privacy at a pixel level. The Galaxy S26 Ultra also delivers a customised chipset and upgraded thermal management that enable faster and more powerful AI — all wrapped up in the slimmest Ultra yet.

Together, these choices allow the Galaxy S26 series to deliver the most powerful Galaxy experience yet.

“We believe AI should be something people can depend on every day, designed to work consistently for everyone and without the need for expertise,” said TM Roh, Chief Executive Officer, President, and Head of Device eXperience (DX) Division at Samsung Electronics. “With the Galaxy S26 series, we focused on making AI feel effortless by designing it to complete tasks naturally, working quietly in the background so people can focus on what matters.”

Powerful performance designed around everyday use

Engineered for all-day performance, the Galaxy S26 series is built on the most powerful hardware ever on a Galaxy S series, powered by a customised chipset. Across the line-up, the Galaxy S26 series is engineered for AI performance, power efficiency and thermal management, ensuring demanding tasks run smoothly and consistently, so users can rely on their device when it matters.

On the Galaxy S26 Ultra, a customised mobile processor — Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 Mobile Platform for Galaxy — delivers the best performance ever in its class with significant gains across CPU, GPU, and NPU to support faster, smoother experiences that keep up throughout the day.

A CPU performance increase of up to 19% means the Galaxy S26 Ultra responds more quickly and handles complex workloads intelligently, even when multiple tasks are running at once. A 39% improvement in NPU performance powers always-on Galaxy AI features that run seamlessly, allowing users to move between tasks without lag or interruption. A 24% boost in GPU performance delivers richer visuals and more fluid gameplay.

To sustain this level of performance, Galaxy S26 Ultra introduces a redesigned Vapor Chamber with thermal interface material positioned along the sides of the processor, allowing heat to spread more efficiently across a larger surface area. This improves heat dissipation to keep the device cool and consistent, even during demanding activities such as gaming, multitasking and video capture. To support all-day use, the Galaxy S26 Ultra also brings Super-Fast Charging 3.0, minimising downtime by reaching up to 75% charge in just 30 minutes.

Embedded into the processor, Samsung’s proprietary technologies enhance visual performance. ProScaler improves image scaling so photos and videos appear richer and clearer at a glance by sharpening text and fine detail while smoothing textures. Additionally, Samsung’s mobile Digital Natural Image engine (mDNIe) delivers more subtle and lifelike colours thanks to image processing with four times the precision compared to the previous generation.

Taken together, these advancements deliver dependable all-day performance, making every action feel effortless.

Galaxy’s best camera system yet

The Galaxy S26 series brings the same focus on intuitive interaction to creativity and productivity, delivered through the best Galaxy camera system ever. With an approach that integrates content capture, editing and sharing into a single, seamless experience, creativity feels more natural and accessible even without professional tools or technical knowledge.

On Galaxy S26 Ultra, wider camera apertures allow more light to reach the sensor, delivering clearer photos with richer details in low-light conditions, even when zoomed in. Enhanced Nightography Video keeps footage clearer and more vibrant even in dim scenes, whether capturing concerts indoors or recording moments around a campfire after sunset. Video capture is further enhanced with upgraded Super Steady capabilities, which add a horizontal lock option for greater stability and to make consistent framing easier to achieve, even with bumpy trails or fast-paced activities. The Galaxy S26 Ultra is the first Galaxy device to support APV, a new professional-grade video codec designed to deliver efficient compression for high-quality production workflows. Optimised for advanced creators, it ensures visually lossless video quality that stays true even after repeated editing.

Improvements to the AI ISP now extend to the selfie camera, capturing more natural skin tones and finer detail in mixed lighting. 

Editing photos and videos is just as easy and straightforward, with AI-powered tools built into familiar workflows so users can make changes quickly and unlock their creativity without design expertise.

With the upgraded Photo Assist suite, users can simply describe what they want to change in their own words. Changing the scene from day to night is just a matter of asking. It can also add to images and restore missing parts of objects like a bite taken out of a cake. Personal details, such as a spill on clothing, can also be cleaned up with Galaxy AI’s new ability to change outfits in photos. Edits can now be made continuously, reviewed step by step, and easily adjusted or undone along the way, making the process feel fluid rather than final.

Creative Studio builds on this simplicity by bringing creation and customisation into one integrated space, making it easy to act on ideas when inspiration strikes. Starting from a sketch, photo or prompt, users can quickly turn ideas into polished visuals — from stickers and invitations to personalised wallpapers — and refine or share them without switching tools or interrupting creative flow.

The Galaxy S26 series also simplifies frequent visual tasks with AI-powered tools like the Document Scanner, which removes distortions and distractions such as creases or fingers to deliver clean scans instantly. Multiple images can be organised automatically into a single PDF, making it easy to digitise receipts, forms or notes.

Every day ease with proactive and adaptive Galaxy AI

The Galaxy S26 series is designed to make frequently used experiences feel straightforward and user-friendly, with Galaxy AI reducing the steps between intent and action. It works more proactively and seamlessly on the user’s behalf based on context, surfacing the right support at the right moment and automating tasks with minimal manual input. As the technology fades and handles tasks in the background, users can focus on the results.

With Now Nudge, timely and relevant suggestions help users stay in the flow without being distracted. If a friend asks for photos from a recent trip, Galaxy S26 automatically suggests photos from the Gallery, removing the need to search through albums or switch between apps. When receiving a message about a meeting, Galaxy S26 can recognise related Calendar entries and check for conflicts.

On the Galaxy S26 series, Now Brief has become more proactive and personalised. The Now Brief widget recommends exercise playlists and surfaces timely reminders for important events based on personal context. 

Searching for information is also easier than ever. Circle to Search with Google on the Galaxy S26 series has been upgraded with enhanced multi-object recognition, so users can now explore more deeply on multiple parts of an image at once. If users spot a look they love, the feature also identifies everything from the jacket to the shoes, all in one search.

The Galaxy S26 series integrates a choice of agents, including Bixby, Gemini and Perplexity. Once set up, tasks can be completed with a single button press or voice prompt. The series features an upgraded Bixby as a conversational device agent, making it easier than ever to interact with Galaxy devices. Galaxy S26 can also handle multi-step tasks in the background, streamlining the process on the user’s behalf. For example, with Gemini, requesting a ride or booking a taxi is as simple as asking, reviewing the details and tapping confirm. These assistants support tasks such as searching, coordinating actions across apps, and controlling device settings through natural interaction.

Together, these proactive, personalised and adaptive experiences lay the foundation for more agentic AI experiences — setting the stage for Galaxy devices to become trusted companions that understand and anticipate user needs. 

Layers of protection in the age of AI

As mobile experiences become more personalised thanks to AI, protecting user privacy becomes even more critical. Samsung builds protection into every layer of the Galaxy S26, keeping personal data secure while giving users transparency and control over how their information is used.

The Galaxy S26 Ultra introduces privacy at the pixel level with the mobile industry’s first built-in Privacy Display, a breakthrough in display technology that fundamentally changes how privacy can be protected on a phone. Designed for everyday situations like transit, cafés and shared environments, Privacy Display goes beyond anything previously available on mobile devices — hardware and software working as one to protect privacy without compromising the viewing experience.

By controlling how pixels disperse light, the display keeps content clear, bright and comfortable for the user in everyday use, while limiting what others can see. Unlike traditional stick-on privacy films, Galaxy’s integrated Privacy Display preserves full viewing quality from all directions when off, and limits visibility for others from side viewing angles when activated, even when switching between portrait and landscape orientation.

Users can customise when it turns on — such as when entering PINs and passwords or opening selected apps — and adjust privacy levels depending on the situation. Partial Screen Privacy intelligently limits visibility for notification pop-ups, while Maximum Privacy Protection further obscures side views for added discretion, all with minimal impact on power or usability.

The Galaxy S26 series also brings smarter software safeguards that work quietly in the background. AI-powered Call Screening identifies unknown callers and summarises intent, making it easier to safely manage calls. Privacy Alerts use machine learning to proactively notify users in real time when apps with device admin privileges unnecessarily attempt to access sensitive data, such as precise location, call logs or contacts. These alerts help users quickly understand when apps are seeking deeper access, so they can manage permissions with greater clarity and control. 

Private Album, built directly into Gallery, lets users easily hide selected photos and videos without creating a separate folder or signing into a Samsung Account. To stay ahead of emerging threats, the Galaxy S26 also extends Samsung’s innovation in post-quantum cryptography (PQC) to critical system processes, including software verification and firmware protection, strengthening device integrity for the future. 

New updates to Knox Matrix further strengthen protection across connected Galaxy devices, adding PQC-enabled end-to-end encryption for direct transfers like eSIM migrations and clearer visibility into firmware update status across the ecosystem through Security Status of Your Devices. 

These experiences are supported by Samsung Knox, the multi-layer security platform that protects Galaxy devices from the chip level up. For on-device Galaxy AI, Personal Data Engine (PDE) enables context-aware, personalised AI experiences. To keep this process safe, Knox Enhanced Encrypted Protection (KEEP) encrypts each app’s data, while Knox Vault adds a physical layer of protection that isolates sensitive data inside its own secure hardware. Together with settings that let users choose how AI features operate, Galaxy S26 combines hardware and software to deliver a comprehensive, system-wide approach designed to keep personal data protected.

These updates build on Galaxy’s existing security and privacy portfolio which includes Auto Blocker, Theft Protection, Private Sharing, Secure Wi-Fi and more. These layers of protection are designed to give users greater transparency, choice and control through Samsung’s continued mobile security innovation in the age of AI. And with seven years of security updates, Galaxy S26 helps keep these layers resilient over time — supporting longer, more confident use well into the years ahead.

The Galaxy S26’s ease of use continues even when the phone is out of reach. The new Galaxy Buds4 series is a natural companion to the Galaxy S26, extending everyday experiences beyond the phone while delivering rich and immersive hi-fi sound. When Galaxy S26 is paired with Galaxy Buds4, interactions can continue naturally in moments when using hands isn’t practical. Users can activate AI agents with their voices, manage calls through simple Head Gestures on Buds4 Pro, and stay connected without breaking their flow.

Availability

The Galaxy S26 Ultra, S26+ and S26 will be available for pre-orders from 26 February to 19 March 2026. You can double your storage and save up to R5,000 in an exclusive pre-order offer. The Galaxy S26 series features a unified design language across all models, with shared colour options including Cobalt Violet, White, Black and Sky Blue. 

For added peace of mind, Samsung Care+ offers comprehensive coverage from a once off fee of just R799. Samsung Care+ is optimised to users’ device needs, including fast repairs for accidental damage, extended warranty, and certified expert support available both at home and abroad. This ensures a seamless mobile lifestyle and provides lasting protection that safeguards the value of Galaxy devices.

The Galaxy S26 series will be available at these recommended retail prices; Galaxy S26 Ultra 256GB from R30,999, Galaxy S26 Plus 256GB from R25,999, and Galaxy S26 256GB from R20,99925.

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