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There are smartphone upgrades you notice on a specification sheet, and then there are the ones you notice the moment you start using the device. The new HUAWEI Pura 90s Series, now available in South Africa, is firmly focused on the latter — a flagship built around seeing further, capturing more detail and staying connected at the speeds today's mobile lives demand. Huawei sums it up simply: Master Zoom, Max Speed.

At one end is a formidable new 200MP telephoto imaging system designed to bring distant subjects remarkably close. At the other is an equally significant development for South African HUAWEI fans: 5G connectivity is back on Huawei flagship smartphones, marking its return to the company's local flagship portfolio. Together, they make this generation of Pura about much more than taking a great photograph.

5G is back

The HUAWEI Pura 90s Series marks the return of 5G connectivity to HUAWEI's flagship smartphones in South Africa — and that becomes particularly interesting when paired with a camera capable of producing high-resolution photographs and video.

Capturing the moment is only half of modern smartphone photography. We immediately want to send it to family, upload it to social media, back it up to the cloud or share video while we're still at the event. Faster upload and download speeds make those everyday experiences quicker and more responsive.

Backed by Huawei's communications technology, the series combines 5G connectivity with stronger signal performance and faster upload and download speeds. From streaming high-definition content and joining video calls to navigating on the move and uploading high-resolution images, the idea behind Max Speed is ultimately about making connectivity feel seamless.

Capture with Master Zoom. Share with Max Speed.

200MP changes what zoom can do

Smartphone photography has become exceptionally good at capturing what is directly in front of us. The challenge has always been what happens when the action is further away. The HUAWEI Pura 90s Pro Max tackles that with an industry-leading 200MP Ultra Large Sensor Telephoto Camera featuring a 1/1.28-inch sensor and the first-ever 200MP RYYB sensor, retaining extraordinary levels of detail when shooting subjects at a distance.

That matters in the real world. Think about photographing wildlife without getting closer, capturing the action from the stands at a sporting event, or getting a great shot of your favourite performer when your concert ticket puts you several rows back.

The phone's chip-level 200MP RAW real-time processing technology also enables ultra-clear 20x telephoto video recording, supported by CIPA 7.0 image stabilisation to help deliver clearer, steadier footage when shooting handheld. The telephoto capability even extends to the other end of the scale — with a minimum focusing distance of up to 5cm, users can explore intricate details in subjects such as flowers and insects through telephoto macro photography.

Getting the colour right matters too

Resolution is only one part of a great photograph. The HUAWEI Pura 90s Series introduces True-to-Colour Camera 2.0, delivering a 43% improvement in colour accuracy and a 34% wider colour gamut. The goal is straightforward: the sunset, skin tone or landscape you photograph should look like the one you remember.

AI then steps in where the photographer needs a little help:

• AI Composition — intelligent, real-time framing guidance
• AI De-glare — tackles distracting reflections from glass and screens
• AI Move — repositions or duplicates subjects and intelligently reconstructs the background

A flagship designed for everyday life

Huawei hasn't stopped at imaging and connectivity. The HUAWEI Pura 90s Pro Max features Anti-Reflection and Scratch-resistant Kunlun Glass, reducing reflections by up to 70% while improving outdoor visibility and scratch resistance.

A 6000mAh battery powers the series, with the HUAWEI Pura 90s Pro supporting 66W HUAWEI SuperCharge and the Pro Max supporting 100W HUAWEI SuperCharge. Huawei's new system-level AI assistant, Celia, adds another layer of intelligence to everyday interactions.

All of this comes wrapped in Huawei's Rhythm of Colour design philosophy, with locally available finishes spanning the sophisticated Blush Gold, Blaze Purple and Graphite Black on the Pro Max, and the more playful Orange Soda, Coconut White and Mulberry Black on the Pro.

The result is a flagship that brings two sides of the modern smartphone experience together: one is about capturing what previously felt too distant, the other is about making sure the technology can keep pace once you've captured it.

Master Zoom. Max Speed. And 5G is back.

Telephoto

200MP

Sensor

1/1.28″

Battery

6000mAh

SuperCharge

100W

Reporting based on official HUAWEI South Africa launch materials and coverage from News24.

Next in Partner Content The zoom deep-dive →

Now firmly in consumers' hands following its local launch, the phones in the HUAWEI Pura 90s Series are showing exactly why Huawei has put so much emphasis on its latest flagship generation. Yes, these are striking smartphones, but beneath the colours and premium design lies a serious collection of technology built around how people actually use their phones.

That starts with photography, an area where the Pura name has increasingly established its identity, but it extends much further. 5G connectivity, intelligent photography, a 6000mAh battery across the series, fast charging and a tougher, easier-to-see display on the HUAWEI Pura 90s Pro Max all contribute to a flagship experience that feels designed for life beyond the specification sheet.

A camera built to go further

The headline technology on the HUAWEI Pura 90s Pro Max is difficult to ignore. Its 200MP Ultra Large Sensor Telephoto Camera uses a 1/1.28-inch RYYB sensor and combines it with a 3-in-1 Ultra Lighting Prism and CIPA 7.0 image stabilisation.

For the person behind the camera, the technical engineering translates into something much simpler: you can get closer to subjects without physically getting closer. That changes what is possible when photographing a concert from the stands, capturing sport from the sidelines, spotting wildlife at a distance or picking out the architectural details of a city skyline.

• Pura 90s Pro Max — 4x optical · 200MP Ultra Large Sensor Telephoto Camera, extending to 20x ultra-telephoto video with CIPA 7.0 stabilisation
• Pura 90s Pro — 5cm macro · 50MP Ultra Lighting Macro Telephoto Camera, focusing as close as 5cm for food, flowers, textures and fine detail

Getting colour right matters too

Megapixels and zoom tend to dominate smartphone camera conversations, but neither means much if the finished image looks nothing like the scene you photographed. Both HUAWEI Pura 90s models feature True-to-Colour Camera 2.0, designed to improve colour accuracy across challenging shooting conditions — strong sunlight and shadow, brightly coloured stage lights, neon signs, sunset portraits or warm indoor lighting.

Instead of choosing between a properly exposed face and a bright sky, the camera has more information available to balance both.

On the HUAWEI Pura 90s Pro Max, an Ultra Lighting HDR Camera adds another layer by retaining greater detail across bright and dark areas of a scene.

AI is moving behind the camera

Huawei has also made AI a far more active part of photography. Rather than simply repairing a bad picture later, the phone can help the user take a stronger one to begin with — and keep improving it after the shutter clicks.

• AI Composition — analyses a scene before the photograph is taken and suggests framing and positioning
• AI De-glare — removes distracting reflections from photographs taken through glass
• AI Move — repositions, resizes or duplicates subjects and objects within an image
• AI Best Expression — helps rescue a group photograph when someone blinks at exactly the wrong moment

It is a useful indication of where smartphone photography is heading. The camera is becoming less about pressing a shutter button and more about supporting the complete process around creating an image.

Flagship technology has to work all day

Of course, none of this matters if the phone cannot keep up. Both models feature a large 6000mAh battery, with the HUAWEI Pura 90s Pro supporting 66W wired HUAWEI SuperCharge and the Pura 90s Pro Max stepping up to 100W wired HUAWEI SuperCharge. Wireless charging is supported across both models.

5G connectivity also returns as an important part of the experience, giving users the faster, more responsive connection expected from a modern flagship smartphone — important when the phone increasingly serves as camera, editing suite, navigation device, entertainment screen and communication hub throughout the day.

The HUAWEI Pura 90s Pro Max also introduces Anti-Reflection and Scratch-Resistant Kunlun Glass. For South Africans regularly using their phones outdoors, reducing glare under bright sunlight may prove every bit as useful as the extra toughness.

Screen reflections

−70%

Scratch resistance

16×

Drop resistance

25×

The flagship experience comes together

Perhaps that is why the HUAWEI Pura 90s Series has made such a strong entrance. There is no single technology doing all the work. Photography, AI, connectivity, battery life, charging, durability and design have been brought together around the moments in which people actually use their smartphones.

That extends to how the series looks and feels in the hand, with finishes built to feel considered rather than default.

Partner Featured Content, produced by Technobok Media in partnership with Huawei South Africa. Photography: Kyle Goetsch Photography. Pricing and availability correct at time of publishing and subject to change by retailers and network operators.

Next in Partner Content The nova 15 Max →

Modern life rarely slows down, and neither should your smartphone. Whether you’re navigating unfamiliar roads, capturing memories with friends or streaming your favourite content on the move, the new HUAWEI nova 15 Max is designed to keep up. Built around the nova series’ energetic and youthful spirit, it combines style, reliability and performance in a device that’s ready for every journey.

Now officially available in South Africa, the HUAWEI nova 15 Max lets users truly “Max Your Fun”. Combining intelligent navigation, exceptional battery life, immersive entertainment and dependable durability, it is a smartphone built to keep up with modern life. Starting at just R7,999, customers will also receive a HUAWEI Added Value Pack worth up to R7,596, including Unlimited Screen Damage Protection and HUAWEI FreeBuds SE valued at R1,499 at selected retailers.

Available in Black, Cyan and Gold, the HUAWEI nova 15 Max balances performance with style, complementing its slim design and distinctive Star Ring camera layout. At a time when smartphone prices continue to rise across the industry, the HUAWEI nova 15 Max stands out by delivering flagship-inspired features, generous memory and storage, and one of the largest batteries in its category at a highly competitive price point.

Battery life built for long days

A smartphone is only useful if it can last the distance. At the heart of the HUAWEI nova 15 Max is an impressive 8500mAh HUAWEI Super Battery, one of the largest batteries available in its category. Designed to support busy lifestyles, it helps users stay connected, entertained and productive throughout the day without constantly searching for a charger.

Real-world testing shows the device can support up to 23 hours of continuous video playback. The phone also supports reverse charging, allowing users to power compatible Huawei devices directly from their smartphone when needed — effectively turning the HUAWEI nova 15 Max into a portable power bank.

Whether you’re commuting, travelling for business or heading away for the weekend, the HUAWEI nova 15 Max is built to keep going.

Ready for the realities of everyday life

South Africans need devices that can handle more than just office desks and coffee shop tables. The HUAWEI nova 15 Max has achieved the SGS Premium Performance Mark 5-Star Drop Resistance certification, helping reduce the risk of damage from everyday knocks and accidental drops. Precision sealing technology helps protect against dust and debris, while the IP65 rating provides resistance against dust and water exposure encountered during daily use.

Behind the scenes, on-device AI models intelligently adjust touch parameters when the screen or fingers are wet, helping maintain smooth and accurate operation in everyday situations.

Capture every moment, day or night

The smartphone features a 50MP Ultra Vision Camera with Huawei’s advanced RYYB colour filter array, which increases light intake by 40% compared to traditional solutions. Combined with a large 1/1.56-inch sensor and F1.9 aperture, the camera is designed to produce bright, detailed images even in challenging lighting conditions. The camera is also supported by AI-powered features such as AI Best Expression, helping users select and refine the best moments from a sequence of shots.

Smarter navigation when it matters most

The HUAWEI nova 15 Max introduces AI-Powered Navigation, designed to maintain stable route guidance even when GPS signals become weak or inconsistent. Powered by Huawei’s self-developed AI fusion algorithm, the system intelligently calculates driving trajectories and helps maintain navigation continuity in challenging environments such as tunnels, dense urban areas and multi-level roads.

Display and sound designed for entertainment anywhere

Its large 6.84-inch OLED Eye Comfort Display combines vivid colours with smooth responsiveness and intelligent viewing adaptation. With up to 4000 nits of dynamic peak brightness, the display remains clear and easy to view even under bright sunlight. Entertainment extends beyond the display, too — symmetrical stereo dual speakers deliver powerful, immersive sound across movies, music, podcasts and video calls.

Battery

8500mAh

Playback

23 hrs

Display

6.84″

Camera

50MP

Reporting based on official HUAWEI South Africa launch materials.

Next in Partner Content The VIVO X300 Pro →

When we talk about “camera phones,” we usually mean a smartphone that takes great pictures. But with the Vivo X300 Pro, the script has flipped. This is a high-end ZEISS optical instrument that happens to have a smartphone attached to it.

After taking this device into the skies over Cape Town in a helicopter and then deep into the fynbos for some bird-watching, one thing is clear: the telephoto crown has a new wearer.

Welcome VIVO X300 Pro, co-engineered with the world-leading name in optics, ZEISS. This is not one, not two, but three unboxings in one place, so sit back and enjoy.

Features unpacked

The vivo X300 Pro is a 2026 flagship smartphone featuring a 6.78-inch 1.5K 120Hz LTPO AMOLED display (4,500 nits peak), MediaTek Dimensity 9500 chipset, 16GB LPDDR5X RAM, and a 6,510mAh battery with 90W fast charging. It highlights a ZEISS-engineered triple camera system with a 200MP APO super telephoto lens.

Beyond the frame

The Vivo X300 Pro is a defiance of physics — the realisation that a device in your pocket can hold the majesty of a Cape Town sunset and the delicate frailty of a bird’s wing with equal reverence.

It is more than a flagship. It is a portal. It is the new king of the light, and it has claimed its throne at the intersection of glass and gold.

Technobok finale: a masterpiece in every photon. This sums up the VIVO X300 Pro.

Display

6.78″

Chipset

Dimensity 9500

RAM

16GB

Battery

6,510mAh

Reporting based on Technobok’s own review and unboxing coverage of the VIVO X300 Pro.

Next in Partner Content The VIVO V70 FE →

In the ever-evolving world of smartphones, the “FE” moniker often signals a compromise — a thinning down of flagship features to hit a price point. The Vivo V70 FE flips the script.

Meet the fashion-focused, value-packing Vivo V70 FE.

Key specs

• Display — 6.83-inch AMOLED, 1.5K resolution, 120Hz refresh rate, 1900 nits peak brightness
• Processor — MediaTek Dimensity 7360 Turbo (4nm)
• Memory & storage — 8GB/12GB LPDDR5 RAM, 256GB/512GB UFS 3.1 storage
• Rear camera — 200MP main (f/1.9, OIS) + 8MP ultra-wide
• Front camera — 32MP (international)
• Battery & charging — 7000mAh Si/C Li-Ion, 90W wired charging
• OS — Android 16 with OriginOS 6
• Durability — IP69 rating

The Vivo V70 FE is a rare breed. Usually, “big battery” phones look like rugged bricks, and “fashion” phones die by dinner time. Vivo has bridged that gap.

Buy this if: you live on your phone, love taking high-res photos for social media, and want a device that looks like an accessory rather than a utility tool — and one which packs solid performance and unbelievable value.

Display

6.83″

Camera

200MP

Battery

7000mAh

Charging

90W

Reporting based on Technobok’s own coverage of the VIVO V70 series.

Next in Partner Content The VIVO V70 →

In the modern smartphone landscape, the “ZEISS” logo has typically been a gated luxury reserved for the expensive flagship elite. With the Vivo V70, that gate has officially been kicked open.

By combining their legendary ZEISS partnership with a strategically priced mid-tier chassis, Vivo is offering a “pro-grade” imaging experience to a far wider audience.

Key features

• Display — 6.59-inch AMOLED, 1.5K resolution, 120Hz refresh rate, up to 5000 nits peak brightness
• Processor — Qualcomm Snapdragon 7 Gen 4 (4nm)
• Memory & storage — 8GB/12GB RAM, 256GB/512GB UFS 4.1 storage
• Rear camera — Triple ZEISS system: 50MP main (OIS), 50MP periscope telephoto (3x optical, OIS), 8MP ultrawide
• Front camera — 50MP (f/2.0) with ZEISS optics
• Battery & charging — 6500mAh, 90W wired fast charging, reverse charging supported
• OS — Android 16 with OriginOS 6
• Durability — IP68/IP69 dust and water resistance

The Vivo V70 is a specialised tool — designed for the aspiring content creator, the Instagram enthusiast, and the traveller who wants professional-looking memories without the professional-looking price tag. It is, quite simply, the best “optical value” on the market right now.

Display

6.59″

Telephoto

3x optical

Battery

6500mAh

Charging

90W

Reporting based on Technobok’s own coverage of the VIVO V70 series.

Next in Partner Content The Mate 80 Pro →

Smartphones have become part of how people express themselves, from the way they capture moments to how they carry their devices every day. With the HUAWEI Mate 80 Pro, Huawei doesn’t just lean into this idea — it unashamedly owns it, combining refined design, expressive colour, and powerful performance in a flagship built for both style and substance.

Available now, the HUAWEI Mate 80 Pro is not just about what it can do but how it feels to use. From its materials to its finish, every element is designed to create a more considered, premium experience.

A design shaped by detail

The first thing that stands out about the HUAWEI Mate 80 Pro is its design, which introduces a refined Dual Space Ring, a signature element of the HUAWEI Mate Series that has evolved into a more balanced and confident visual identity. It is subtle but instantly recognisable.

Equally important is how the HUAWEI Mate 80 Pro feels in hand. The ultra-durable vegan fibre back panel offers a soft, tactile finish that resists wear while maintaining a premium look over time.

Colours that go beyond the surface

Available in Gold and Black, the HUAWEI Mate 80 Pro offers a palette that moves beyond simple finishes. Gold brings a sense of warmth and light, while Black delivers a classic, understated finish.

Capturing moments with more intent

Photography remains central to the HUAWEI Mate experience, but here it is approached from a more human perspective. Its True-to-Colour Camera System works in the background to maintain balance under changing conditions, keeping colours consistent even as light shifts. The addition of telephoto macro capability adds flexibility, making it possible to move between fine detail and distant subjects without interrupting the flow of capturing a moment.

From snapshot to standout with AI Composition

At the heart of the experience is AI Composition, which works quietly in the background to guide your framing in real time. By analysing light, balance and subject placement, it suggests subtle adjustments that help turn everyday photos into more polished, well-composed images without requiring any technical know-how.

This sense of ease carries through to editing. With AI Remove, unwanted distractions can be cleared from the background in seconds, while AI Best Expression ensures everyone looks their best in group shots. Two-way AI noise cancellation keeps calls clear, filtering out background noise so conversations feel more natural.

Rather than focusing on peak output, the HUAWEI Mate 80 Pro delivers a more balanced experience that feels reliable in real-world use.

Performance and durability

A large 5750mAh battery supports all-day usage, while fast charging ensures minimal downtime. It combines 2nd Generation Kunlun Glass with a reinforced structure to improve resistance to drops and everyday wear, and carries IP68 and IP69 ratings for water and dust exposure.

Why not add a HUAWEI WATCH GT Runner 2

For those who move as much as they create, the HUAWEI WATCH GT Runner 2 adds another layer to the experience. Designed with a lightweight titanium body and a breathable, performance-focused strap, it feels almost weightless during long runs or busy days on the go — bringing intelligent training insights and precise tracking into everyday routines.

Battery

5750mAh

Durability

IP68/IP69

Glass

Kunlun 2nd Gen

Colours

Gold, Black

Reporting based on official HUAWEI South Africa launch materials.

Next in Partner Content 25 years of X-Trail →

In the fiercely competitive theatre of the modern automotive market, few vehicles can lay claim to inventing an entire segment. Yet, as the world celebrates the 25th anniversary of the Nissan X-Trail, we must acknowledge a fundamental truth: the X-Trail did precisely that. When it first launched in 2000, it wasn’t just another entrant in the utility market; it was a quiet revolution that introduced the concept of the competent, comfortable, and crucially, accessible crossover — a segment that now dominates global sales charts.

The X-Trail’s genesis was a direct challenge to the established order of the early 2000s. Back then, if you wanted an SUV, you bought a heavy, truck-like machine built on a ladder-frame chassis, delivering clumsy on-road manners and abysmal fuel economy. Nissan’s breakthrough was an act of visionary simplicity: marry the high driving position and rugged aesthetic of a 4×4 with the refined handling and structural integrity of a family sedan.

The structural shift: from truck to unibody

The shift to a monocoque (unibody) construction was the X-Trail’s first, most consequential innovation. By integrating the chassis and body into a single structural unit, Nissan immediately unlocked superior safety, rigidity, and dynamic stability — while being lighter than traditional truck platforms, dramatically improving fuel efficiency and steering response.

The washable, robust plastic lining in the boot area of the first-generation model became an instant legend among outdoor enthusiasts, signifying that this was a vehicle designed to handle muddy boots, wet gear, and real-life mess.

Mechanical mastery: the intelligent drivetrain

The X-Trail’s appeal was secured by its mechanical integrity, most notably its approach to all-wheel drive. It introduced the concept of Intelligent All-Wheel Drive, a system that operated predominantly in fuel-saving front-wheel drive but could instantaneously and electronically distribute torque to the rear wheels when slip was detected, or when the driver pre-emptively selected ‘Lock’ mode at low speeds.

Powering the X-Trail is a strong 2.5L naturally-aspirated petrol engine (135kW/244Nm), paired with a smooth Continuously Variable Transmission for good city and highway driving, and more than enough power for when the roads turn to trails.

The modern zenith: safety and technology

The current generation embodies 25 years of heritage by leading with award-winning safety and next-generation connectivity, routinely achieving maximum five-star ratings from organisations like Euro NCAP and the IIHS. This success is underpinned by the sophisticated Nissan Safety Shield suite.

The technological crown jewel is the Intelligent Driver Assistance System, ProPILOT Assist — utilising radar and camera technology to manage steering, acceleration and braking, maintaining a set distance, staying centred in the lane, and even bringing the car to a complete stop and restart in heavy traffic.

The famous versatility has also been modernised, with flexible seating configurations, including the option for seven seats, confirming its unshakeable family focus.

The enduring legacy

The X-Trail’s enduring success over a quarter-century is not accidental. It democratised the SUV, making its benefits accessible, safe, and efficient. As we look at the overwhelming sea of crossovers on the road today, from every manufacturer imaginable, we are looking at the extended family of the X-Trail.

This Nissan didn’t just survive 25 years in a brutally competitive segment; it defined the parameters of that segment. This is a celebration of motoring, and of 25 years of X-Trail by Nissan.

Since

2000

Seating

Up to 7

Drivetrain

Intelligent AWD

Engine

2.5L / 135kW

Reporting based on Technobok’s own coverage marking 25 years of the Nissan X-Trail.

Next in Partner Content X-Trail ProPILOT Assist →

Nissan ProPILOT Assist elevates the X-Trail from a traditional family SUV into an intelligent travel companion, seamlessly blending cutting-edge technology with intuitive driver support.

By integrating steering, acceleration, and braking into a single, cohesive system, it takes the stress out of long highway journeys and stop-and-go traffic alike. This isn’t just about automation; it’s about enhancing the connection between the driver and the road, creating a more relaxed and engaging experience where the vehicle acts as a vigilant second set of eyes.

ProPILOT Assist transforms every drive into a premium, confident journey, proving that true luxury lies in the peace of mind afforded by world-class safety innovation.

For occupants, this translates to a smoother, more composed ride, while for fellow road users, it ensures a predictable and safer environment.

Reporting based on Technobok’s own coverage of the Nissan X-Trail.

Next in Partner Content X-Trail versatility →

In the realm of family SUVs, true luxury is defined by space and the freedom to use it. The Nissan X-Trail 7-seater is a masterclass in interior packaging, offering a level of versatility that transforms it from a sophisticated commuter into a comprehensive family mover at a moment’s notice.

The brilliance of the X-Trail’s layout lies in its EZ Flex™ Seating System. The second row slides and reclines, allowing you to prioritise either massive legroom for adult passengers or easier access to the third row for the kids. When not in use, the rear seats fold completely flat, revealing a cavernous luggage area ready for school projects, sports gear, or weekend camping equipment.

This is more than just adding extra chairs; it’s about providing a lifestyle solution.

By merging this expansive cabin with premium materials and clever storage nooks throughout, Nissan has ensured that every occupant, no matter which row they occupy, can enjoy a first-class travel experience.

Reporting based on Technobok’s own coverage of the Nissan X-Trail.

Next in Partner Content X-Trail infotainment →

The Nissan X-Trail transforms the modern driving experience into a seamless extension of your digital life, anchored by an intuitive, high-definition infotainment system that stands at the forefront of automotive innovation.

The centrepiece is a brilliant, large-format touchscreen that boasts crystal-clear graphics and lightning-fast response times, making navigation through menus feel as natural as using a premium smartphone. With a focus on a connected drive, the X-Trail features wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ integration, ensuring your music, maps, and messages are always accessible.

This digital ecosystem is further elevated by a stunning 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, providing the driver with a fully customisable, high-resolution view of vital vehicle data, navigation prompts, and safety alerts directly in the line of sight. Complementing this is the sophisticated Head-Up Display, which projects essential information onto the windscreen.

This synergy between high-definition hardware and intelligent software creates a driving environment that is not only technologically superior but also profoundly relaxing.

Beyond entertainment, the X-Trail serves as a pioneer in safety with its Level II semi-autonomous driving features. The renowned ProPILOT Assist system works in perfect harmony with the digital cockpit, utilising radar and camera technology to manage steering, braking, and acceleration on the highway.

Reporting based on Technobok’s own coverage of the Nissan X-Trail.

Next in Partner Content X-Trail drivetrain →

The Nissan X-Trail is engineered to handle the diverse landscapes of Southern Africa with a mechanical package that balances refined efficiency with rugged capability. At its core is a sophisticated powertrain and drivetrain combination designed for seamless delivery.

The Intelligent All-Wheel Drive system is a standout, constantly monitoring road conditions and adjusting power distribution between the front and rear wheels in milliseconds. This ensures maximum traction on loose gravel or during sudden Highveld thunderstorms, all while maintaining the fuel-sipping characteristics of a front-wheel-drive vehicle during standard highway cruising.

Complementing this intelligent power delivery is the X-Trail’s generous ride height. With a ground clearance that places it at the top of its class, the X-Trail offers a commanding view of the road, significantly improving driver peripheral vision and confidence.

This elevated stance isn’t just about the “look” — it provides the necessary clearance to navigate rutted farm tracks and high speed-bumps without hesitation.

Combined with a suspension tuned for a “compliant yet firm” ride, the X-Trail absorbs the imperfections of our road surfaces, ensuring that whether you are on the tarmac or off the beaten path, the journey remains smooth, stable, and undeniably capable.

Reporting based on Technobok’s own coverage of the Nissan X-Trail.

Next in Partner Content The Velar PHEV →

The city of Cape Town, for all its beauty, is a symphony of motion. But sometimes, true luxury is found in the silence of an escape. Our journey began not with a roar, but with a barely perceptible whisper, as we slipped away from the urban bustle in the new Range Rover Velar PHEV.

The Velar, in its silent EV Mode, glided effortlessly through the suburbs, the whisper-quiet electric motor proving its worth immediately. Our first intentional stop was a small, high-end roastery tucked away near the N1. As we sipped our ethically sourced coffee, the Velar was parked, a sculpture of modern design against the rustic backdrop, having consumed zero petrol to get us there.

As the cityscape receded, the Velar shifted seamlessly into Hybrid Mode, the powerful Range Rover engine marrying with the electric torque to ensure effortless, confident cruising through the rolling Cape countryside. The spacious, leather-clad cabin became a sanctuary where the only sound was the curated playlist flowing from the Meridian sound system.

Our arrival at the Grande Roche Hotel & Spa in Paarl felt like stepping onto a heritage film set. This historic estate, with its Cape Dutch gables and towering mountain views, is where old-world charm meets considered luxury. After the Velar was plugged into its dedicated charger for its own ‘recharge,’ we were escorted to our suite, overlooking manicured gardens and the endless emerald expanse of the vineyards.

The next morning broke in a blaze of African gold, the sunrise painting Paarl Rock in vivid hues.

We dedicated the day to exploring the forward-thinking nature of the surrounding valley — first to the Spice Route Destination to engage the senses with local craft and artistry, then to the famed Fairview dairies, meeting the characterful, curious goats and learning about the farm’s commitment to sustainable, ethical production. That evening, the promise of the hotel’s internationally trained chefs was delivered in a spectacular multi-course meal, each plate celebrating local ingredients with global technique.

The Range Rover Velar PHEV was, in every sense, the ideal companion. It gives you the silent, ethical commute, the effortless long-range capability, and the absolute assurance that your journey is as refined as your destination.

Mode

EV / Hybrid

Location

Cape Winelands

Stay

Grande Roche, Paarl

Sound

Meridian

Reporting based on Technobok’s own experience piece, driving the Range Rover Velar PHEV through the Cape Winelands.

Next in Partner Content The nova 14 Pro →

The HUAWEI nova 14 Series has officially launched in South Africa, introducing a new standard for smartphone design and innovation. With its advanced imaging system, lightning-fast charging, and intelligent EMUI experience, the HUAWEI nova 14 Pro showcases just how far mobile technology can go in enabling creativity.

Centred around the theme Pro Your Portrait, this series celebrates individuality through precision engineering. Behind every beautiful image and fluid interaction lies next-generation technology that combines hardware mastery with AI intelligence, delivering professional-grade performance in the palm of your hand.

The science behind the Ultra Chroma Camera

At the heart of the HUAWEI nova 14 Pro is Huawei’s most advanced imaging system to date: the Ultra Chroma Camera. This revolutionary sensor captures multispectral light data that extends far beyond traditional RGB systems, fusing that data to reproduce colour temperature, contrast, and tone with exceptional accuracy — a 120% improvement in colour reproduction over the previous generation.

Combined with Huawei’s upgraded XD Portrait Engine 3.0, which analyses shape, texture, glow, colour, and blur, the nova 14 Pro crafts portraits with depth and precision that rival DSLR results.

Front-facing innovation for the selfie era

The 50MP dual front camera system pairs a 50MP Ultra Portrait Autofocus Camera with an 8MP Close-up Portrait Camera, offering an industry-first 2x optical and 5x digital zoom range. AI then refines each image — AI Retouch optimises lighting and shadow, AI Best Expression composites ideal expressions from a burst sequence, and AI Remove clears unwanted distractions without compromising texture.

It’s a technical showcase of how Huawei’s software and imaging hardware work in seamless harmony.

Performance built for creators

The 5500mAh battery is supported by 100W HUAWEI SuperCharge Turbo, which intelligently regulates power distribution using AI Charging Temperature Control, maintaining heat precision to within 0.1°C. Connectivity and interaction are equally advanced, with AI Gesture Control allowing for touch-free scrolling, screenshotting, and navigation.

Merging art, technology and dependability

The 6.78-inch Flawless Quad-curved Display features an LTPO Adaptive Refresh Rate of 1–120Hz and HDR Vivid technology. The AI Eye Comfort Display uses ambient light sensors and pixel-level adjustments to reduce blue light, providing a 104% brightness improvement in low-light environments. Its IP65 rating ensures protection against dust and water splashes.

Tap and pay with Swoo

HUAWEI nova 14 Series users with NFC-enabled Huawei devices can link their Discovery Bank or FNB cards to Swoo Pay and enjoy ‘tap to pay’ at any contactless-enabled point of sale, via the Swoo digital wallet app on the Huawei AppGallery.

Battery

5500mAh

Charging

100W

Display

6.78″

Zoom

2x optical / 5x digital

Reporting based on official HUAWEI South Africa launch materials.

Next in Partner Content The WATCH GT 6 Series →

The HUAWEI WATCH GT 6 Series is the latest milestone in the evolution of smartwatch technology, a blend of endurance, intelligence and refined design that represents Huawei’s most advanced wearable to date. Now available in South Africa, it embodies the brand’s “Fashion Forward, Health Forward and Sports Forward” philosophy.

Behind the HUAWEI WATCH GT 6 lies a legacy of innovation. Since the launch of the first WATCH GT in 2018, Huawei has been driven by a simple mission: to build a smartwatch that lasts longer, measures smarter and performs better. Six generations later, that commitment has shaped an engineering lineage defined by breakthroughs in battery life, sensor technology and design.

A legacy of design and innovation

The HUAWEI WATCH GT 6 Pro leads the line-up, crafted from sapphire glass, an aviation-grade titanium body and a nanocrystal ceramic rear cover. The 46mm features a sportier aesthetic with an octagonal frame and lightweight composite materials, while the 41mm introduces an elegant, compact form for slimmer wrists. All three share Huawei’s signature 3000-nit AMOLED display and the new EasyFit 3.0 strap system.

The power of endurance

Powered by an advanced, high-silicon, stacked, special-shaped battery, the GT 6 achieves a 65% increase in capacity compared to its predecessor, without adding bulk. The Pro and 46mm editions deliver up to 21 days of battery life on light use and 40 hours in outdoor GPS mode, while the 41mm edition achieves up to 14 days of typical use.

Precision perfected

Built around Huawei’s latest Sunflower positioning system, an upgraded six-satellite architecture improves location accuracy by 20% compared to the previous generation. The watch supports over 100 workout modes, including dedicated outdoor profiles for cycling, trail running, skiing and golf — headlined by Cycling Virtual Power, which calculates real-time output using speed, incline and body metrics, eliminating the need for a separate power meter.

In many ways, the HUAWEI WATCH GT 6 Series isn’t about what’s new, it’s about what’s been perfected.

Smarter health intelligence

Huawei’s TruSense system integrates multidimensional optical sensors and AI modelling to deliver more accurate readings for heart rate, sleep, stress and emotional wellbeing, now recognising 12 emotional states, up from three in the previous generation. The GT 6 Pro adds ECG analysis for real-time heart monitoring, while all models include pulse-wave arrhythmia detection certified to CE standards.

Battery

Up to 21 days

GPS mode

40 hrs

Workouts

100+ modes

Positioning

6-satellite Sunflower

Reporting based on official HUAWEI South Africa launch materials.

Next in Partner Content The Galaxy Ring →

The future of wearable tech isn’t bulky or distracting; it’s seamlessly integrated, and Samsung’s Galaxy Ring is proof. From the moment the box arrived, this device felt less like a gadget and more like a piece of personal jewellery — a philosophy that carries through to the experience of wearing and using it, especially with the advanced support of Galaxy AI.

Unboxing elegance: a jewel, not a device

Unboxing the Galaxy Ring is an event in itself. The packaging is less a tech carton and more a sleek, minimalist jewellery box, hinting immediately at the premium nature of the product. My Titanium Black Silver size 9 ring model was nestled in its charging case — a compact, clamshell design that is both futuristic and highly practical.

In the hand, the ring is stunning. Crafted from Grade 5 Titanium, it manages to be incredibly lightweight (ranging from 2.3g to 3.0g depending on size) while still feeling substantial and durable. The simple titanium finish is scratch-resistant and gives it a timeless, understated look that easily pairs with anything.

Hands-on: the freedom of forgettable tech

The pairing process was, as expected with modern Samsung devices, instantaneous and frictionless. But the real magic begins when you put it on. I’ve never worn a health tracker that became so quickly “forgettable.” Unlike a watch that needs to be positioned perfectly or a chest strap that interferes with movement, the Galaxy Ring is truly unobtrusive.

I wore it 24/7 — through typing, exercising, showering (it boasts an impressive 10 ATM water resistance), and most importantly, sleeping. The comfort during sleep is the single greatest selling point, utilising its trio of integrated sensors (PPG heart rate, accelerometer, and skin temperature) to gather the most accurate metrics possible from your finger.

Galaxy AI: beyond data, into insight

The transition from raw data to actionable guidance is where the power of Galaxy AI truly shines — the key feature being the Energy Score. Based on a comprehensive analysis of your previous night’s sleep metrics, heart rate variability, and activity, the AI provides a single, easy-to-understand score out of 100 that tells you how ready your body and mind are for the day.

This is the difference between data tracking and personalised coaching — the AI acts as your pocket health guide.

Key takeaways

• Battery life is a winner — the promised up to seven-day battery life is essentially accurate, minimising charging anxiety, and the case provides extra charges
• The ecosystem advantage — for anyone already invested in the Samsung Galaxy ecosystem, seamless data integration with Samsung Health and pairing with a Galaxy Watch are unbeatable

The Galaxy Ring is more than just a competitor in the smart ring market; it’s a statement about the future of discreet, AI-enhanced wellness — all wrapped in a premium package you won’t want to take off.

Material

Grade 5 Titanium

Weight

2.3–3.0g

Water resistance

10 ATM

Battery

Up to 7 days

Reporting based on Technobok’s own hands-on review of the Samsung Galaxy Ring.

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