Xiaomi’s latest REDMI puts an 8,340mAh battery at the centre of its proposition, but its first surprise is how little that capacity dictates the overall design.

This is also my first proper experience with a Xiaomi smartphone, which means I’m approaching the Note 17 Pro 5G without years of familiarity with REDMI or HyperOS.

My first instinct was therefore to put it alongside something I know very well: my Nothing Phone (3). The comparison is surprisingly revealing. Both devices occupy similar territory in terms of overall thickness, with the REDMI appearing marginally slimmer from certain angles, while the Nothing feels slightly heavier in the hand. Considering the 8,340mAh battery inside the REDMI, that’s an impressive piece of packaging.

An 8,000mAh-plus battery still sounds like something that should require an obvious compromise in size and weight. And Phone is paired with 67W HyperCharge, which is a very welcome sight.

In the short time I’ve spent with the Note 17 Pro 5G, that compromise isn’t immediately apparent.

More than its battery

The design helps. Flat sides give the device a contemporary appearance, while the Sky Blue finish of our review unit is understated rather than attention-seeking. The rear camera module is also relatively restrained. It’s unquestionably a large smartphone, but it doesn’t feel like a specialist endurance device built around its battery.

The display reinforces that impression. Initial video streaming has produced punchy colours and an enjoyable viewing experience, although outdoor visibility and extended media consumption will require further testing.

Inside, the Note 17 Pro 5G combines the Snapdragon 6s Gen 4 with 8GB of RAM on our review unit, which isn’t actually that impressive, supplemented by 4GB of memory extension. There is 256GB of internal storage.

During initial setup, browsing, app switching, video streaming and camera use, performance has felt fluid. Those observations remain just that, however — initial impressions rather than conclusions about sustained performance.

The speakers sound decent too, although the tuning seems to favour the treble slightly more than the bass. Vocals and higher frequencies come through clearly, but I’d have liked a little more low-end weight.

A first encounter with HyperOS

HyperOS is equally new territory for me.

Coming to the platform without established MIUI or HyperOS habits makes the experience interesting. Navigation has been straightforward and the software has so far stayed out of the way.

It hasn’t immediately won me over, but neither has it presented anything significant enough to put me off. Longer use will be needed before reaching conclusions about the software experience.

The same restraint applies to the cameras. I’ve begun taking photographs with the phone, but a small collection of daylight images isn’t enough to judge camera consistency. The next few days should provide a better mixture of subjects and lighting conditions.

8,340mAh meets the real world

Battery endurance is naturally the bigger question.

The software is already presenting some ambitious remaining-use estimates, but figures generated during the first hours of a newly configured smartphone don’t tell us much about real-world endurance.

A more useful test happens next.

I’m travelling to India, which means the REDMI will face exactly the sort of mixed workload that makes a large battery relevant: airport use, photography, navigation, messaging, mobile connectivity, streaming and extended periods away from a charger.

Perhaps the most important first impression, then, isn’t how large the battery is. It’s how successfully Xiaomi has prevented that battery from dominating the experience of using the device.

Cameras

The REDMI Note 17 Pro 5G keeps its camera hardware relatively straightforward. At the rear is a 50MP main camera with an f/1.8 aperture, 5P lens and optical image stabilisation (OIS), accompanied by an 8MP ultra-wide camera with an f/2.2 aperture. Up front, Xiaomi uses a 16MP selfie camera with an f/2.4 aperture.

There is a decent selection of shooting modes, including HDR, Portrait, Ultra HD, Panorama, Pro mode and Live Moment, while an Underwater mode is also supported, with availability through an OTA update. Xiaomi also offers Dual Video, allowing the front and rear cameras to record simultaneously.

Video specifications are more modest: both the rear and front cameras top out at 1080p at 30fps, rather than offering 4K recording. For my first impressions, however, I’m more interested in seeing how that 50MP OIS camera handles everyday photography, particularly during my upcoming travel.

Price completes the proposition

The REDMI Note 17 Pro 5G is priced at AED 1,499 for the 8GB + 256GB configuration, rising to AED 1,749 for 8GB + 512GB. It will be offered in Sky Blue, Satin Orange, Purple and Black.

At AED 1,499, an 8,340mAh battery certainly gives Xiaomi an obvious headline specification. The more important question is whether the display, cameras, performance and software combine to make the Note 17 Pro 5G more than simply a phone with a very large battery.

That’s something only more time with the device will answer.

For now, though, Xiaomi’s first achievement is surprisingly simple: 8,340mAh doesn’t feel like 8,340mAh.

“The expectations people have for their PCs are changing,” said Jun Ouyang, Senior Vice President & General Manager, Consumer Segment, Lenovo Intelligent Devices Group. “Consumers want technology that fits into their lives, whether they prioritize performance, entertainment, or a device that suits their individual style. Our latest Idea portfolio brings together AI-powered experiences, distinctive design, and greater choice without the premium price.”

Smarter AI Experiences with Lenovo Qira

Among the AI-powered experiences available across select configurations of the new Idea portfolio is Lenovo Qira¹, Lenovo’s personal AI experience, designed to deliver more seamless, contextual assistance across supported PCs, mobile devices, tablets, and wearables.

Lenovo Qira features Workato-powered connections such as email, calendar, and collaboration services, helping users find relevant information and move from intent to action through natural-language requests with less app switching. This capability creates a more connected experience across the devices, applications, and services people use throughout the day.

 AI PCs Built for Self-Expression – The IdeaPad Vibe

Today’s laptops do more than support productivity. They’re also an extension of personal style. Lenovo’s new IdeaPad Vibe series gives everyday consumers, including students and families the opportunity to showcase their personality through bold colors, thoughtful design, and intelligent experiences that don’t compromise performance.

Powered by Snapdragon® X processors and Copilot+ PC capabilities, IdeaPad Vibe delivers fast, responsive performance and smooth everyday multitasking for a new generation of AI PC experiences. Available in both 14” and 15” configurations, IdeaPad Vibe combines all-day battery life² and lightweight portability in a metal chassis starting at 1.3kg, making it easy to carry throughout the day. Developed in consultation with Pantone Institute, users can find the color that resonates with them, with seven fresh color options to choose from:

• Dreamy Violet – a muted violet shade layered with inviting depth that inspires serenity, bringing a sense of comfort wherever it goes.
• Spicy Gold – a rich golden yellow that blends warmth and energy, creating a confident, welcoming feeling.
• Zen Green – a nature inspired green hue that evokes a sense of balance, harmony, and encourages a slower pace.
• Chill Blue – an icy blue with a crisp modern vibe that stimulates refreshing clarity and an effortless fresh start energy.
• Radiant Coral – warm and uplifting with an optimistic orange boost that brings friendliness and positivity wherever it goes.
• Moody Blue – expressing credibility and confidence, a deep blue hue conveying refined elegance.
• Lowkey Grey – a timeless grey projecting strength, stability, and understated sophistication.

Elemental by design, these colors are inspired by the world we live in with individuality in mind. Lenovo and Pantone Institute drew inspiration from colors people encounter every day and shades that capture how they aspire, learn, create, and live. To further extend personalization options, customizable keycaps will be available to add an extra touch of color (available for purchase and swapping).³

“Color is the most personal design decision people make when choosing a device,” said Brian Leonard, VP of Design Innovation for Intelligent Devices Group at Lenovo. “Now available in seven expressive new colors, IdeaPad Vibe gives people the ability to choose technology that showcases a piece of their personality while delivering the AI experiences and performance they expect daily.”

IdeaPad Vibe wasn’t created for one type of user. It was designed to adapt to different lifestyles, creative ambitions, and personal preferences. Whether someone values mobility, immersive visuals, or a device that represents their style, the IdeaPad Vibe series offers consumers the freedom to make the experience of using the laptop their own. 

Select models offer up to 24GB⁴ of memory, delivering exceptional battery life, responsive performance, and powerful on-device AI capabilities. AI-enhanced productivity features include real-time translation, intelligent video conferencing effects, faster content creation, and enhanced privacy, all while maintaining a cool, quiet, and energy-efficient operation.

OLED configurations available in Lowkey Grey and Moody Blue deliver richer colors, deeper contrast, and up to 100% DCI-P3 color coverage, where supported⁵. IPS display options provide smooth 120Hz visuals where available⁶ and up to 100% sRGB coverage for daily viewing.

Upgradable dual SSD slots, multiple USB Type-A and Type-C® ports, HDMI®, MicroSD® card reader, audio jack, and TÜV Low Blue Light Certification provide the connectivity, expandability, and visual comfort expected from a modern AI laptop.

IdeaPad Vibe is also available with up to AMD Ryzen AI 400 Series processors, offering additional configuration flexibility such as dual-slot memory upgradeability up to 32GB⁴, and SSD expansion up to 1 TB⁴. Configurations are available with either a full metal build or metal plus polymer two tone ripple on the bottom cover, with optional 50Whr or 65Whr batteries⁷.  Windows Hello Support is available across the lineup (Qualcomm and AMD).

From vibrant colors choices and personalized options to AI-powered productivity and all-day portability, IdeaPad Vibe proves that consumers no longer have to choose between performance and personality. It is an AI PC that is ready to perform and designed to stand out, no matter what a person’s vibe is.

Additional configurations powered by Intel® processors will be available at a later date.

An AIO Desktop for Everyday Life—The IdeaCentre AIO i

From busy mornings to family movie nights and late-night studying, the new IdeaCentre AIO i intelligently adjusts throughout the day to support consumers’ changing needs.

Built on Intel® Core Series 3 processors with up to 40 platform TOPS of AI performance, the latest generation combines a slimmer design, intelligent AI experiences, and thoughtful ergonomics to create a workspace that feels more comfortable, responsive, and personal.

Available for the first time in multiple colors, including Dreamy Violet, Radiant Coral, Zen Green, Chill Blue, Luna Grey, and Cloud Grey, the IdeaCentre AIO i extends Lenovo’s vision of more personalized technology beyond the laptop. Its color options draw from research conducted in consultation with Pantone Color Institute, while the color-matched Lenovo Essential Wireless Combo Gen 3 Keyboard & Mouse completes the setup⁸ with a cohesive workspace aesthetic.

The redesigned middle-box-free architecture removes the bulky computing section traditionally found behind the display, creating a cleaner, more streamlined all-in-one appearance.  23.8” and 27” full HD display options feature up to a 120Hz refresh rate⁶, 350 nits peak brightness, support for up to 32G LPDDR5x memory⁹, and dual SSD slots.

At the center of the experience is the Lenovo AI Turbo Engine, an intelligent hub that brings together performance optimization, multimedia enhancements, and AI-powered Adaptive Lighting¹⁰. One of the IdeaCentre AIO i’s signature innovations, Adaptive Lighting introduces Boot-up, Default, and Music Lighting modes, creating a more engaging desktop experience while enabling users to personalize lighting effects and colors¹⁰.

The All-in-One desktop also features an ergonomic stand with30mm of vertical height adjustment up and down and a -5° to 15° tilt range, making it easy to find a comfortable viewing position whether joining a virtual meeting, helping children with homework, sharing family photos, or enjoying content with family and friends. E-book mode helps reduce blue light and eye strain for a more comfortable reading experience, while audio by Harman® delivers rich, dynamic sound for work and entertainment.

For clearer, more natural collaboration, the IdeaCentre AIO i is available with an optional up to 5MP IR camera that combines hardware and software enhancements to improve video calls. A physical camera shutter provides added privacy when the camera isn’t in use. Six USB ports with up to USB 3.0 support, an HDMI-in and HDMI-out combo port, a conveniently positioned headphone and microphone combo jack, optional wireless charging, and an optional touch display provide the flexibility to connect and work the way users prefer.

From supporting productivity to entertainment and family life, IdeaCentre AIO i delivers smart performance in a design built around the needs of modern households.

Lenovo’s latest consumer portfolio empowers people to choose technology that works the way they do. By combining intelligent innovation with thoughtful design and meaningful personalization, Lenovo continues to create devices that are inspired by the people who use them.

With an 8,000mAh battery, dual 50MP cameras, IP69K protection and a five-year smoothness promise, OPPO’s latest A Series smartphone makes a strong case for devices designed around longer-term ownership.

Smartphone launches have traditionally revolved around faster processors, increasingly sophisticated cameras and, more recently, AI. With the A7 Pro 5G, OPPO is putting another consideration firmly into the conversation: how well a smartphone can hold up over time.

At the centre of that proposition is an enormous 8,000mAh battery. Large-capacity batteries are becoming increasingly common, but what is interesting about the A7 Pro 5G is how little the battery dictates the physical character of the phone.

Despite the capacity, the device does not immediately look or feel like a rugged smartphone. The Shine Titanium review unit has an understated finish, while the alternative Surfing Blue introduces a more distinctive Dynamic 3D Wave Texture.

That relatively conventional appearance hides some serious durability credentials.

Built for longer ownership

The A7 Pro 5G carries IP69K dust and water resistance alongside military-grade shock resistance. Rainstorm Touch is designed to keep the display responsive even when used in heavy rain.

The longevity argument extends to the battery itself. OPPO says it can retain more than 80% of its rated capacity after 2,000 complete charging cycles, underpinning the company’s six-year battery durability proposition.

This matters because battery degradation remains one of the most noticeable compromises as smartphones age. Increasing capacity solves part of that equation; maintaining useful capacity several years into ownership potentially solves another.

Reverse wired charging also allows the A7 Pro 5G to supply power to another connected device, adding some practical value to that substantial battery reserve.

Selfies get the 50MP treatment

OPPO has also placed considerable emphasis on the front-facing camera.

The 50MP Ultra-Wide AI Zoom Selfie Camera offers a 100-degree field of view and can automatically move between 1x and 0.6x framing when additional people enter the shot.

It is a useful approach for group photographs, travel and increasingly video-led social content, where a wider front camera can make considerably more sense than simply increasing resolution. Ultra-steady video has also been included to improve handheld recording.

At the rear is another 50MP camera, using a larger 1/2-inch sensor that OPPO says captures 70% more light than its predecessor.

AI Portrait Glow, AI Popout and AI Remix Collage bring the increasingly familiar layer of computational editing into the camera experience, allowing users to manipulate images without moving immediately to third-party applications.

Five years of smoothness?

Underneath, the A7 Pro 5G is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 6360 MAX, accompanied by OPPO’s NetworkBoost Chip S1 and AI LinkBoost 4.0.

A 4,300mm² Glacier VC Vapor Chamber handles cooling, while software-based resource and memory management is designed to maintain responsiveness as workloads increase.

Perhaps more interesting than outright performance figures is OPPO’s 5-Year Smoothness Protection. The company says the device has passed its five-year smoothness testing, reflecting a wider attempt to position performance around consistency rather than simply launch-day speed.

Naturally, five-year performance cannot be established during a conventional review period, but the emphasis itself is notable. Smartphone replacement cycles are lengthening, making sustained performance, battery health and software optimisation increasingly relevant purchasing considerations.

AMOLED keeps the experience contemporary

The front houses a 6.57-inch FHD+ AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, up to 1,400 nits of brightness and a 92.8% screen-to-body ratio.

The combination provides the fluid scrolling and vibrant presentation expected from a contemporary AMOLED smartphone, while complementing a device otherwise heavily focused on practical considerations.

Warranty coverage also extends across the GCC, Pakistan, India and Bangladesh, potentially useful for users who regularly travel between these markets.

The 8,000mAh battery will inevitably attract most of the initial attention, but the A7 Pro 5G becomes more interesting when viewed as a complete package.
OPPO is combining battery capacity with physical durability, thermal management, connectivity enhancements and longer-term performance optimisation. At the same time, it has avoided turning the device into something that visually resembles a specialist rugged phone.

BY: SRIJITH KN

A different definition of smartphone performance that may ultimately be the A7 Pro 5G’s more relevant proposition. Rather than asking how much faster a smartphone can become every year, OPPO is increasingly asking another question: how much longer can it remain useful?

RØDE has released RØDECaster Video 1.4, a free firmware update for the RØDECaster Video, RØDECaster Video S and RØDECaster Video Core, adding new 4K and Full HD capture modes alongside deeper integration across its audio and video production ecosystem.

The headline addition is 4K Capture Mode, which turns compatible RØDECaster Video consoles into dedicated UHD capture and distribution systems. Multiple HDMI camera feeds can be received at up to 3840×2160 resolution and distributed individually over NDI at UHD30.

The RØDECaster Video supports up to four UHD30 HDMI feeds, while the Video S and Video Core support three. Each source can also be recorded independently to an external SSD in H.264 or H.265, giving editors isolated 4K files for post-production.

A separate Full HD Capture Mode supports multiple 1080p feeds at 60fps for productions where frame rate takes priority over resolution.

The complete RØDE audio mixer remains available in both capture modes, with each NDI output capable of carrying its own custom audio mix. Some switching, keying, scene and media functions are reduced in 4K Capture Mode to prioritise video throughput, while these remain available through the standard FHD Switching Mode.

Version 1.4 also expands RØDECaster Sync across the current-generation RØDECaster family. RØDECaster Video and Video S can now connect to a RØDECaster Pro II or Duo via USB-C, enabling combined audio and video control, shared mixing, SMART Pad functionality and consolidated recording.

The update also introduces OTIO timeline export for Adobe Premiere Pro, complementing existing DaVinci Resolve EDL export support. Additional features include USB webcam audio support and keyboard shortcuts for Scene Builder within the RØDECaster App.

RØDECaster Video 1.4 is available now as a free firmware update.

The launch also comes as the REDMI Note Series crosses 500 million shipments worldwide. The new range focuses heavily on device longevity, with up to six years of security updates across the lineup and selected models offering up to six years of battery-health support. Pasted text

At the top of the range, the REDMI Note 17 Pro Max 5G features Xiaomi’s largest smartphone battery to date at 10,000mAh in selected markets, paired with 100W HyperCharge and 27W reverse charging. The REDMI Note 17 Pro 5G offers an 8,340mAh battery, while the Note 17 5G and Note 17 feature 7,700mAh units. Pasted text

Durability is another major focus. The two Pro models have received TÜV SÜD 5-star Titan Quality Certification and feature IP66, IP68, IP69 and IP69K ratings, alongside Gorilla Glass Victus 2 protection. Pasted text Pasted text

The Pro models also feature 1.5K displays with peak brightness of up to 3,500 nits, while the Pro Max is powered by the Snapdragon 6 Gen 5 platform and supports Xiaomi HyperAI. Google Gemini and Circle to Search are available across the series. Pasted text

UAE pricing starts at AED 1,059 for the REDMI Note 17, rising to AED 1,999 for the 512GB REDMI Note 17 Pro Max 5G.

With a huge 13-inch display, a 10,100mAh battery and familiar Android productivity tools, HONOR’s Pad X9b Max makes a convincing case for going big, although its size brings compromises of its own.

BY Srijith KN, Senior Editor, Integrator Media

The HONOR Pad X9b Max makes its intentions clear almost immediately. With a 13-inch display, this is not a tablet designed primarily around compactness. It wants to give you enough screen to watch, browse, multitask and, increasingly, get some proper work done.

That became the most interesting part of my time with it.

Rather than approaching the Pad X9b Max purely as an entertainment device, I connected a Bluetooth keyboard and began using it for documents, browsing, ChatGPT and some of the everyday tasks I would normally reach for my laptop to handle.

The result is a tablet that gets surprisingly close to feeling like a lightweight workstation in the right circumstances, although whether you would actually leave the laptop behind is a slightly more complicated question.

A 13-inch display that makes a difference

The headline feature is undoubtedly that 13-inch LCD display.

At 2500 × 1560 resolution and with a refresh rate of up to 120Hz, there is plenty of space here for websites, documents and video. But the more important point is simply how much larger everything feels when you start working on it.

I happened to have a Huawei MatePad 11.5 alongside the HONOR during testing, and putting the two next to each other made the difference immediately apparent. The Huawei feels much more like a conventional portable tablet. The Pad X9b Max begins moving into laptop territory.

Documents have more room to breathe, websites feel less constrained and working with text is particularly pleasant. I noticed this while using ChatGPT, where longer conversations almost began to resemble working inside a document rather than interacting with a mobile application.

The 120Hz refresh rate also helps keep scrolling and general navigation fluid, while the large canvas makes multitasking considerably more attractive than it is on smaller tablets.

There is, however, an obvious trade-off.

A 13-inch tablet isn’t something I would choose specifically because I wanted the smallest device possible in my bag. The size that makes the X9b Max so appealing on a desk is also what makes smaller tablets easier to carry and use casually.

That’s the fundamental compromise here: I prefer the HONOR when I’m sitting down to work; I prefer the idea of a smaller tablet when I have to carry it.

Productivity becomes part of the proposition

Pair the Pad X9b Max with a keyboard and the large display begins making considerably more sense.

I used a Kensington Bluetooth keyboard during testing, and the combination worked well for writing, browsing and moving between applications. Microsoft Word introduced its own subscription-related complications, but that’s more a reflection of Microsoft’s software model than a limitation of HONOR’s hardware.

The wider Android ecosystem is also important. With MagicOS and access to familiar Google applications, getting my usual collection of services onto the tablet was straightforward.

My review unit comes with 4GB of RAM and 128GB of storage, so this isn’t hardware I would position as a replacement for a high-performance notebook. But for everyday productivity — web applications, writing, email, research, media and lighter multitasking — the experience makes a convincing argument for using the tablet instead of reaching for a laptop every time.

Expandable storage also gives the X9b Max additional flexibility for users carrying large collections of documents or media.

Built for entertainment too

Of course, productivity is only half the appeal of having this much screen.

The Pad X9b Max’s size makes video one of its natural strengths. HONOR has paired the display with a quad-speaker system, DTS:X Ultra and IMAX Enhanced support, reinforcing the tablet’s entertainment credentials.

And this is where having 13 inches requires considerably less justification. Video simply benefits from the additional scale, whether you’re watching from a desk, sofa or bed.

It also means the Pad X9b Max can comfortably switch roles during the day: a document and browser screen while working, followed by a sizeable personal entertainment display once the keyboard goes away.

A battery built for the bigger canvas

Powering all of this is a 10,100mAh battery, paired with support for up to 45W HONOR SuperCharge.

The large capacity makes sense considering the size and resolution of the display. More importantly, battery life is critical for a tablet being positioned as both an entertainment device and a productivity companion. Having to constantly look for a charger would undermine much of the convenience of leaving a laptop behind.

We wouldn’t reproduce HONOR’s laboratory endurance claims as our own results here; for the VAR piece, the more relevant point is that HONOR has equipped its largest screen with an appropriately substantial battery.

Verdict

The HONOR Pad X9b Max succeeds because its 13-inch display isn’t merely a specification designed to look impressive on the box. It materially changes what the tablet is good at.

There is substantially more room for documents, browsing, multitasking and content, and adding a keyboard transforms it into a surprisingly useful desk-based productivity device.

But its greatest strength also creates its biggest compromise. At this size, the X9b Max isn’t as effortless to carry around as a smaller tablet, and once you add a keyboard, you inevitably start comparing the entire setup with taking a laptop instead.

That makes the Pad X9b Max particularly appealing for someone who wants one large-screen device capable of moving between work and entertainment, rather than someone whose priority is maximum portability.

It hasn’t made my Dell redundant.

But it has made me reach for it less often, and for a tablet this size, that’s probably the more meaningful achievement.

Having previously used the Reno14 as one of my primary phones, I was particularly interested in whether the Reno16 felt like a meaningful progression or simply another annual refresh.

After spending time with the device, there is plenty here that feels better refined, although its AED 2,499 UAE price also raises some questions about performance and overall value.

BY SRIJITH KN, SENIOR EDITOR, VAR

A more polished Reno!
My review unit arrived in Twilight Violet, and the Reno16 makes a strong first impression. The aluminium frame, slim symmetrical bezels and overall finish give the device a noticeably premium character.

The 6.32-inch display is also excellent for everyday use. Content looks sharp, the interface feels fluid and the screen is more than capable for browsing, video, social media and photography. The buttons feel solid too, while the haptic feedback deserves particular mention. It is one of those smaller details that contributes considerably to how polished a phone feels in everyday use.

Overall, OPPO has done a good job of making the Reno16 look and feel like a device worthy of its position in the Reno portfolio.

The camera remains a Reno strength

Camera performance was one area where I expected the Reno16 to prove itself, and it largely did.

Images generally came out with natural-looking colours and balanced exposure, without leaving me waiting for noticeable processing after pressing the shutter. There can still be a slightly punchy character to some photographs, but nothing that particularly bothered me.

During testing, I photographed a building opposite me where part of the upper floor had previously suffered fire damage. Zooming into the scene, I was impressed by how closely the camera reproduced the smoke-stained and burnt areas compared with what I could see with my own eyes.

The front camera also performed well. Selfies retained good detail and produced results that I was quite happy to share without much additional editing.

That perhaps sums up the Reno16 camera experience best. It is designed for someone who wants to take the phone out, capture the moment and quickly have an attractive, shareable image.

Performance is good, but the price changes expectations

The Reno16 5G is powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 7 Gen 4, and for everyday smartphone use, I have few complaints.

Messaging, email, browsing, photography, social media, content consumption and moving between applications all feel responsive. I didn’t encounter anything during normal use that made the Reno16 feel particularly slow.

But this is also where the AED 2,499 price becomes important.

The Snapdragon 7 Gen 4 is a capable processor, but buyers spending this amount can reasonably expect considerable performance headroom. Users interested primarily in everyday smartphone tasks are unlikely to have an issue, but demanding gamers and those running heavier workloads may find more powerful alternatives at this price.

The Reno16 therefore gets everyday performance right. I simply would have liked OPPO to push the performance envelope further.

Battery and charging strengthen the package

One specification that certainly stands out is the 6,700mAh battery, particularly when combined with 80W SUPERVOOC charging.

Battery capacity has become an increasingly important battleground among smartphone manufacturers, and OPPO has managed to package a substantial battery without making the Reno16 feel unnecessarily cumbersome.

Fast charging also remains one of those features whose usefulness becomes obvious very quickly. Rather than leaving a phone connected for extended periods, being able to add significant charge during a relatively short stop is genuinely practical.

AI is here, but practicality matters more!

Unsurprisingly for a smartphone arriving in 2026, AI plays a significant role in OPPO’s software proposition.

The Reno16 includes the AI Snap Key, which can provide quick access to features such as AI Mind Space. But what I appreciate more is that OPPO allows the physical key to be customised for other functions.

I configured mine to switch between Ring, Vibrate and Silent, and found myself appreciating that simple functionality more than another dedicated AI shortcut.

That flexibility is important. AI capabilities will continue evolving rapidly, but consumers still interact with their smartphones through dozens of simple actions every day. Sometimes improving those actions creates more immediate value than adding another headline AI feature.

ColorOS is fast, although I still want more customisation

ColorOS runs smoothly on the Reno16, and there is no noticeable lag during ordinary use. As mentioned earlier, the haptics are particularly good.

I am less convinced by some of the interface aesthetics. The pre-installed applications and certain default visual elements aren’t necessarily to my taste, and I would like greater freedom around icon customisation and the Quick Settings interface.

These are largely subjective complaints, however. For someone primarily using the Reno16 for messaging, email, photography, browsing, social media and entertainment, ColorOS gets the fundamentals right.

The AED 2,499 question?

The Reno16 5G is ultimately a polished smartphone with very few obvious weaknesses. The camera is dependable, the construction feels premium, the battery capacity is impressive, 80W charging is genuinely useful and everyday performance is smooth.

What prevents it from becoming an automatic recommendation is not something the Reno16 does particularly badly. It is simply how competitive the market becomes once a smartphone reaches AED 2,499.

The Snapdragon 7 Gen 4 is perfectly capable, but at this price I would have liked more performance headroom.

For Reno14 users, however, the improvements across design, camera, battery and the overall experience make the Reno16 feel like a meaningful progression. If you already own a Reno15, the argument for upgrading immediately is considerably harder to make.

Reviewed By Srijith KN, Senior Editor, Integrator

The result is a portable charger that feels purpose-built for the daily commute. Rather than requiring a backpack, it slips easily into a pocket. When you factor in the built-in USB-C cable that doubles as a carrying strap, the AC22 becomes a surprisingly practical solution for professionals moving between meetings, flights, and remote workspaces.

A Different Approach to High-Density Power

The first thing that stands out about the PicoGo AC22 is its size-to-output ratio. Baseus utilises a dual-cell silicon-carbon battery chemistry, which allows the unit to remain exceptionally compact while delivering a 45W maximum output. On paper, 45W is a technical specification. In practice, it becomes the charger’s defining advantage. It provides enough current to fast-charge flagship smartphones from zero to fifty percent in under thirty minutes, and can even sustain smaller USB-C laptops during a layover.

The integrated eight-inch USB-C cable makes the concept even more practical. A secondary USB-C port allows for simultaneous dual-device charging, though output drops to a combined 5V/3A when both are in use. A smart digital display clearly indicates the remaining battery percentage, removing the guesswork often associated with four-LED indicator systems.

Design That Feels Ready for Travel

The AC22 is constructed with travel in mind. Weighing just 170 grams, it carries full TSA compliance for airline carry-on. The built-in cable is robust enough to act as a lanyard, though its short length means you cannot easily use your phone while the charger sits in your pocket.

This combination feels particularly relevant for airport lounges, cafes, and conference centres. The unit does generate noticeable warmth during sustained 45W output, but a comprehensive seven-point safety system manages thermal limits effectively. It recharges fully in roughly two hours via a 30W input, ensuring it is ready for the next leg of the journey.

For users who require magnetic attachment or wireless charging, Baseus offers the sibling AM52 model. However, for those prioritising rapid wired charging in the smallest possible format, the PicoGo AC22 delivers reliable, predictable power without the usual bulk.

After spending considerable time testing the Baseus Inspire XH1, I can confidently say this headphone delivers on its core promise being a device you can truly depend on, day after day, without constantly hunting for a charger. This isn’t trying to be the flashiest premium headphone on the market, instead, it focuses on what actually matters for most users. It is one of the most dependable audio devices I have tested recently. It focuses on comfort, endurance, and a robust sound profile rather than chasing trends or relying on flashy gimmicks.

Reviewed by Srijith KN, Editor, Integrator

A Bright, Beefed-Up Sound Profile

The 35mm dynamic drivers deliver a beautiful, warm sound signature with deeper bass and vibrant energy. The “Sound by Bose” tuning makes listening to music, watching content, or even just taking calls feel more fluid and engaging. Max volume is rated high enough that I can actually hear my audio comfortably in loud outdoor environments, which is something I’m usually bothered about when switching to a midrange device from my personal flagship headphones. But in the case of the XH1, I never had to strain to catch the details.

The sound profile is protected by an intelligent EQ system accessible through the Baseus app. This digital tuning makes it much easier to adjust frequencies and find the perfect balance. That means it is less likely to sound harsh or distorted when pushed to higher volumes, and it holds up better to complex mixes that would otherwise cause muddiness. I’ve been deliberately testing it with bass-heavy tracks, and the audio remains pristine.

Built Like a Tank Yet Aesthetically Pleasing

The first thing that struck me was how good it feels on the head. The build quality feels premium and at 275g, it’s got a reassuring heft without being heavy. The metal headband enhances the structural feel, and with its plush protein leather cushions, the XH1 is comfortably soft to wear for hours. My review unit came in Twilight Blue, and it has this understated elegance that shifts subtly under light. The matte texture does a good job of resisting fingerprints, and the overall build feels more high-end than you’d expect from a mid-range device.

Almost 4 Days on A Single Charge

The battery life is massive, and it lives up to the promise. In my daily use, it easily lasts up to 100 hours on a single charge with ANC off, handling regular music playback, occasional gaming, long video streaming sessions, and a decent amount of call time. A moderate user could easily get over a week of battery life from the XH1. It’s one of those devices that you can take on a weekend trip and leave the charger behind without worry.

The Verdict

The Baseus Inspire XH1 is a no-nonsense device built for long-lasting power, ultra durability, and smooth performance. It’s a competent go-to headphone that you can rely on for whatever comes your way each day. A highly recommended daily driver for those who value substance over status.

With a 1.5kg payload capacity, DS3 supports heavier equipment for the modern-day creator, from broadcast-grade XLR microphones like RØDE’s PodMic to other large-diaphragm microphones, cameras, lights and accessories. An integrated, precision-engineered ball head delivers smooth, controlled and virtually silent positioning, allowing on-the-fly adjustments without disrupting a recording or broadcast in progress, while a central locking mechanism secures equipment at the desired angle in a single motion.

Like DS2, DS3 uses a weighted base instead of a traditional desk clamp, allowing it to be positioned anywhere on a flat surface, independent of a desk edge, with no wobble or risk of tipping. The redesigned base delivers greater stability for heavier setups while keeping a compact footprint, leaving more desktop space free for other equipment.

Each finish features its own acoustic isolation pad, designed to dampen vibration as much as elevate the DS3’s aesthetic. The Classic Black variant is finished with a soft-touch silicone pad inlaid on and beneath the base, while the Crisp White variant features natural cork on both sides. Cable clips keep XLR and USB cables neatly routed and out of sight, reducing desk clutter for a cleaner workspace.

Included 3/8″, 1/4″ and 5/8″ thread adaptors ensure broad compatibility across microphones, cameras, lights and accessories, providing everything needed to mount mics and creator equipment straight out of the box.