Sometimes the new gear picks itself by packaging all the features you need in your upgrade cycle
Astell&Kern AK UW100
If the words ‘balanced armature driver’ and ‘32-bit DA’ mean anything to you then you’re probably surprised there’s a picture of true wireless stereo buds with this story. While the UW100s lack the highest possible quality Bluetooth codec, the aptX stream is upscaled through A&K’s proprietary audio circuit amplifier tech before being accurately reproduced by the Knowles Balanced Armature Driver. These buds will also continue to deliver that sound for 24 hours.
Philips OneBlade First Shave
The marketing says that this OneBlade is designed for teenagers to tame the first errant whiskers but those rounded cutter tips, protective plate and razor-burn-reducing micro-glass beads, which differentiates it from the grown-up OneBlade, are great for getting a clean shave in a hurry. The only downside of the extra convenience is a 30-minute runtime (from 45 minutes) of the rechargeable battery, but it’s a small price to pay for not having to concentrate so hard while shaving.
Ikea Vappeby
No, it isn’t a new vape to replace your hookah pipe, but it will make those frosty evening grooves around the fire pit slap harder. Scandinavian sensibility meets modern tech with this combination lantern and Bluetooth speaker that has one-touch integration with Spotify to serve up just the right music. Water resistance and a long-lasting rechargeable battery means it’s good for camping too.
Huawei Watch GT Runner
With mass participation races back in full swing, you probably need some new running gear. Huawei has tailored its excellent Watch GT to guide runners from training to race day with a built-in scientific running programme (Huawei TruSport) and AI-powered coaching to adapt to your specific needs and advanced GPS technology. Oh, and it weighs less than 40 g and has two weeks between charges.
Oppo Reno 7 5G
Oppo entered the Mzansi market under the shadow of pandemic restrictions, but quickly showed why it’s a global top three smartphone manufacturer with impressive budget handsets. Reno 7 5G sees the brand’s premium AI camera technologies come to South Africa in a stylish device that ticks all the boxes. On the specifications side you’re getting a 6.4-inch AMOLED display with 90 Hz refresh rate, 256 GB internal storage, 8 GB RAM, a 64 MP main camera flanked by an ultra wide and macro snapper, 32 MP selfie shooter and a powerful Mediatek Dimensity 900 processor. Oppo’s close relationship with Google means the Android updates come fast, which will keep you up to date with the latest software innovations.
Words by Lindsey Schutters
Photography: Courtesy Images; Héctor Martínez on Unsplash
