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Wednesday, June 18, 2025

Bucket Tech: Samsung Camera Innovation



Today’s mobile imaging goes beyond just a high-quality lens or advanced sensor — it demands seamless integration of hardware, software and AI. That’s why Samsung Electronics approaches camera innovation as a holistic system, where each advancement is supported by tightly integrated technologies. This unified vision allows Galaxy devices to continuously redefine mobile photography, empowering users to capture, create and communicate more meaningfully.

As AI evolves from text-based prompts to multimodal understanding, Galaxy devices are becoming smarter — able to get what you’re looking at and respond to situations. The camera is at the heart of this transformation. More than just a tool for capturing images, coupled with enhanced AI-powered features, the Galaxy camera is now part of the intuitive interface that turns what users see into understanding and action.

When paired with the flexible, expansive screen of a foldable, this experience becomes even more powerful, dynamic and immersive. Because innovation means nothing without trust, privacy is built into every layer helping to ensure that data is protected at all times.

Stay tuned. The camera will only get smarter — helping users capture life’s moments more vividly and make everyday experiences more seamless, personal and impactful.

The Ultra experience is ready to unfold.

Tuesday, June 17, 2025

Monday Choon: LEV - My Truth


 
Following the high-energy ride of 'Rainbow Racer', LEV shifts gears to deliver something deeper with 'My Truth'. Built around an emotive topline and a brooding progressive groove, the track showcases LEV's range as both a producer and storyteller. Atmospheric pads, glistening arps, and rolling basslines set the tone, creating a moody yet uplifting soundscape that feels both personal and universal.

Thursday, June 12, 2025

Bucket Seat: GWM Tank 300

With the Chinese continuing their surge into the market, we seeing loads of various derivatives from the brands whom have already established themselves in the country. One of the popular ones being GWM, who’ve had a decade long presence locally and over the past 5 years seen a drastic increase in sales due to their popular models in the HAVAL stable. Last year they launched another sub brand called “Tank” which showcases their robust offerings more inclined to the adventurers and off-road enthusiasts. The first model which was brought in is the Tank 300. This boxy looking SUV fits all the characteristics of a proper off-roader, but many were still skeptical on its capabilities. Seeing that it was first only offered in petrol engines, this was another draw back for it, with already high consumption figures from the normal SUV’s, this would prove to be even higher given the weight and size of the car. Nevertheless the Tank 300 did sell in decent numbers but the call for a more fuel efficient drivetrain was required. Earlier this year GWM brought in the hybrid petrol and not too long ago launched the 2.4 Turbo Diesel engine. I got to spend a week with the latter and see if this was the ideal engine for this car.


DESIGN

The design of the Tank 300 is very much like its namesake, a tank. It’s big, bulky and boxy, to some its appearance is not very attractive, to others it looks the part. Mimicking some of the other off-road legends in design, it has similar characteristics to the Mercedes-Benz Geländewagen and the Jeep Wrangler, but with its own flair. Personally, the looks of the car didn’t do much for me and in certain angles it did not flatter but this car isn’t designed to win beauty contests as it mean to go exploring in the roads less travelled and for that, the design is spot on. Raised suspension giving it a ground clearance of 224mm, robust black bumpers and side skirts, all terrain tyres and flared wheel arches make the Tank ready to conquer just about any obstacle. The box silhouette may not be to everyone’s liking but it’s needed for the rigidity when maneuvering through tricky terrain. The spare wheel is mounted on the rear door and there is roof rails providing if extra storage is required. The interior of the tank is a complete contrast to the exterior with a modern fascia that adorns the dash and split LCD screens for instrumentation and infotainment.


PERFORMANCE

As mentioned earlier, the Tank was launched with a petrol engine, the Chinese vehicles are well known for their high fuel efficiency, this is due to a number of reasons but in particular the gearbox choices. While there is a hybrid version of the Tank on offer, I still think this diesel engine is where value for money will lie for the consumer. The 4 cylinder turbo charged engine delivers maximum torque peaking at 480Nm with a total power out put of 135kW. Its paired to a 9-speed automatic gearbox which performs well on the daily commute, sometimes it is found holding gears for longer than required but a tap on the break or accelerator sorts that issue out quickly. The Tank 300 comes with Haval’s off-road system which I got to experience first in the H7 and just like that, the system offers automatic selection of terrain and conditions via the touch screen, swapping from 2H, to 4L is as easy as turning the dial on the center console and then via the touch screen display you can really get into the details when configuring how you want the car set up, this even comes with the warning when accessing the menu as it says it’s for experienced users only.


COMFORT

As rugged as the Tank may look on the outside, it’s actually quite a comfy cabin on the inside. As mentioned, it’s a carbon copy of the H7 with dual LCD screens, one for your instrument cluster and the other for your infotainment. All climate control functions are hard buttons. The gear selector is quite a unique one and is used across the GWM range. There is USB C ports and a wireless charging tray, wireless mobile application connectivity and this model came with a sunroof. There were seat heating options for the driver and front passenger and both seats were electronically adjustable. The finishes and quality of materials used were really good, while most of it was faux leather, it really was hard to differentiate the real from the fake. The rear passengers enjoy a decent about of space, especially with the high cabin ceiling gives the feeling of more space. The Tank came with 4 cameras and front and rear PDCs which come very handy when parking this behemoth, it also allows you to toggle it in a 360 view via the touch screen, a feature which comes standard.


VERDICT

Ultimately, the Tank 300 is everything that an off-road enthusiast would want in a car, well maybe I not so much the fancy interior but the rugged exterior and well capable chassis, yes. The price point makes this all the more attractive to even novices who are merely entertaining the fact that they may pursue a side hobby in off-roading will drool at the fact that they could get something like this for almost half the price of what you'd pay for the American or European offerings. The common problem of high fuel economy which deterred many from Chinese brands has now been solved with the introduction of this diesel engine and while it still may be high, for a car that weighs 3-tonnes it was pretty good. The luxuries on the inside are an added bonus if you ask me, cars that are built for this are not meant to be that nice on the inside but GWM thought otherwise and decided to spoiled us. The mount of tech that adorns the car is extraordinary as well, most of which would cost an arm and a leg if added on other brands. The Tank 300 might not be every ones cup of tea but it certainly is a value for money offering, one which is difficult to find in our current climate of cars. 


SPECIFICATION

Engine
2.4L Turbo
Gear Box
9-Speed tiptronic
Torque
480Nm 
Power
135kW
Fuel Economy
 7.7L/100km
Price
R699,900

 


 


 


 


 



 

 





 

 


Tuesday, June 10, 2025

Bucket Tech: HUAWEI Watch FIT 4 Series now in SA


Huawei today confirmed the availability of its latest smartwatch lineup, the new HUAWEI WATCH FIT 4 Series, offering premium materials, improved health tracking, and pro-level sports modes in an ultra-stylish, everyday wearable. This fourth-generation release builds on the success of the popular WATCH FIT Series and steps confidently into a space typically dominated by higher-priced competitors, thanks to its aluminium and sapphire finishes, durable build, and intelligent tech.

Designed to fit your life

The new HUAWEI WATCH FIT 4 Series includes both the HUAWEI WATCH FIT 4 and the HUAWEI WATCH FIT 4 Pro. Both models feature a contemporary square face design, a rotating crown, and clean, minimalist lines that blend function with fashion. The FIT 4 weighs just 27g and measures 9.5mm thin, with a sleek glass and aluminium frame. The FIT 4 Pro, slightly more rugged, features sapphire glass, a titanium alloy bezel, and an aviation-grade aluminium body. At 30.4g and only 9.3mm thick, it balances elegance with endurance.


Brighter screens, better visibility

Each model comes equipped with a large 1.82-inch AMOLED display, supported by Huawei’s Hybrid AMOLED technology. The FIT 4 provides up to 2,000 nits of peak brightness, while the FIT 4 Pro pushes it further with 3,000 nits, ideal for bright, outdoor conditions and high-glare settings.

Outdoor-ready with upgraded positioning

For the first time in the series, both models now include a built-in air pressure sensor for better elevation awareness, plus Huawei’s upgraded Sunflower Positioning System for enhanced GPS precision, particularly important for runners, hikers, and outdoor athletes. Water sports enthusiasts also benefit from the debut of route tracking for aquatic activities, expanding training metrics to cover performance on and in the water.

HUAWEI WATCH FIT 4 Pro

Pro-level features for active users

The FIT 4 Pro offers a suite of advanced sport modes tailored to high-performance lifestyles. These include:

  • Advanced Terrain Map Tracking with offline routes and real-time alerts
  • Golf Course and Driving Range Modes with GPS mapping
  • Diving Mode supporting up to 40m depth, with Freediving and Training options
  • Trail Running Mode optimised for elevation and route accuracy

HUAWEI WATCH FIT 4

Smarter health tracking, day and night

Health tracking also sees a major upgrade across the series. New features include HRV (Heart Rate Variability) monitoring during sleep, all-day HRV tracking, and enhanced sleep insights (available via OTA updates). The integrated Emotional Wellbeing Assistant uses bio-signals to interpret mood shifts and provide real-time stress feedback. The FIT 4 Pro also includes temperature-based menstrual and ovulation predictions, offering personalised and data-driven support for women’s health.

Powerful battery performance

Battery life remains a major highlight. The FIT 4 delivers up to 7 days of usage in typical scenarios (up to 10 days max), and charges fully in just 75 minutes. The FIT 4 Pro does the same in only 60 minutes, making both devices ideal companions for everyday and extended use alike.

A bold contender in the wearable market

With its balance of fashion-first design, advanced functionality, and strong battery performance, the HUAWEI WATCH FIT 4 Series offers exceptional value at launch. It’s a smart choice for users who want real insight, high performance, and serious personal style without the premium price tag.

Available immediately, the FIT 4 Series comes in black, purple, white, and grey from R2 999.00, OR add it to your Vodacom, Telkom or CellC plan from only R99 per month over 36 months. T’s & C’s apply.

And the FIT 4 Pro is available in an iconic green, black and blue from R4 999.00, OR add it to your Vodacom, Telkom or CellC plan from only R149 per month over 36 months. T’s & C’s apply.

Monday, June 9, 2025

Monday Choon: Kaskade & Lipless - State Of Mind (SOHMI REMIX)

 


'State Of Mind' sees Grammy-nominated electronic icon Kaskade and visionary producer Lipless unite for a spellbinding progressive house anthem. Following the success of Lipless' debut album single 'Incomplete', 'State Of Mind' is an ethereal and emotionally charged masterpiece. A bed of lush synth textures, pulsating basslines, and cinematic atmospheres are crafted with the precision and finesse that have made Kaskade and Lipless household names in the electronic world. Premiered on SiriusXM Chill, 'State Of Mind' has already gained momentum with multiple spins and follows Kaskade's illustrious career spanning chart-topping albums, sold-out arena shows, and pioneering the Las Vegas residency model. Lipless, a frequent co-producer with Kx5, continues to cement his reputation with recent co-productions on 'Alive', 'Take Me High', and 'Avalanche'. 'State Of Mind' is poised to be a defining moment for Colorize in 2025.

Thursday, June 5, 2025

Bucket Seat: Golf 8.5 TSI R Line


When Volkswagen South Africa made the decision to not bring any of the entry level models of the Golf 8 into the country, it did come as a surprise. The VW Golf has been a cult classic of the hatchback scene dating from the 80's till present time in the country and while the GTI remains the most popular model, the others did have their space in the market. Looking at sales figures of the Golf 7 and 7.5, it was clear that people still loved the range topping models over the smaller engine ones, so it was maybe on that premise that VWSA made the decision, however with the Golf 8 R model only coming after what felt like decades to reach our shores, the Golf 8.5 was already been mentioned across the motoring forums. I was fortunate enough to spend time with both, the Golf 8 GTI and the Golf 8 R, both brilliantly engineered performance cars and really ushered a new era for the Golf brand but with the prices being quite steep on both, the market cried out for the lower end engines. The Golf 8 did have some teething issues, like the introduction of the haptic touch buttons to the steering wheel and the infotainment screen was quite small compared to what was offered by competitors, much of these complaints were flooding the online social platforms and the guys at VW HQ were taking notes, so when they could launch the face-lift 8.5, these could be addressed. Earlier this year VWSA made an announcement at their Kariega plant that the Golf 8.5 TSI would be making our shores in the second quarter of the year, but then they tuned the tables on us with no word on the GTI and R. Anyway, the Golf 8.5 TSI made it's way into my drive way not too long ago and I got to spend a week with it, here's how it went. 


DESIGN

The design received some tweaks compared to the Golf 8, and with the R Line kit made the overall package look very sleek. In fact, many thought it was a Golf R as I drove past them, the only giveaway would be the lack of "Vrrpha". The LED headlights have gotten much  sleeker and sharpened, on the top of the range IQ Light LED matrix headlights it incorporates a new high-performance main beam with a range of up to 500m. The the front end also looking slimmer than the 8 with the solid light bar that links the two headlights together, the main defining features has to be the Volkswagen logo, which is illuminated for the first time on the Golf. The R-Line kit really brings an aggressive facia up front with a large diffuser and angular air pods on either side of the car. The boldness extends over to the profile of the car with a new range of rims available, this one came fitted with the Leeds alloy rim that has a 5 spoke detail with mixture of black and silver, there is an optional extra upgrade to the York rim but this one looks ace on it. On the inside, much remains the same but the two major talking points see's the return of actual buttons to the steering wheel and the large infotainment screen which I will touch on later in the blog. 


PERFORMANCE

This looks every part of a performance hatch back but it has one of the most frugal engines under the hood, VW's 1.4-litre TSI has been one of the best engines made on the market for a number of years now. Especially in cars like the Golf is where it shines the most, producing 110kW and 250Nm of torque, it has some grunt to it off-the-line even though the 0-100km/h time isn't much to write home about at 8.5 seconds, however the car really is a dream to drive. It feels so smooth on the road and effortless on the highways, all this while being efficient on petrol at the same time. In the 7 days with the Golf 8.5 TSI I drove about 1,300km, one trip which was about 840km return, the car managed a respectable 6.3L per 100km, matching that of the brochure, it was the first time I ever managed to get exactly what the OEM said it's average is, in fact I could have gotten lower, but I did quite a bit of over taking of slow trucks and harsh breaking for cattle on the road. I expected a lot in terms of economy from this car but getting close to 900km on a single tank of fuel (50L tank) was not what I was expecting. Colour me impressed!

COMFORT

The Golf 8.5 has all the creature comforts that you would normally expect in a German car, the high-gloss black finishes are nice to look at but do attract dust particles like crazy. The large infotainment screen which measures in at 10.3-inches won't be getting any "tiny" comments from me. The high-definition screen with VW's user friendly UI is easy to use and setting up your mobile apps has never been easier, you can just plug your device in via the USB C port and it will instantly pick up what OS you're running and prompt you on your device if you'd like to cast to the screen and whether you'd like a wired or wireless connection. There is a wireless phone charging tray as well as a secondary USB C charging port for the passenger. While the haptic buttons have disappeared from the steering wheel, they still remain there for the climate control which can get annoying when driving and trying to adjust the fan speed and its also present for the optional extra panoramic sunroof.  The back seats are pretty comfy and have a decent amount of legroom with their own vent for aircon. The boot space is generous for a hatchback and features the biscuit spare wheel. 


VERDICT

Overall this car is a gem, one that truly lives up to the hype and performs exceptionally in every aspect of what a car should be. VW have done a stunning job on the styling and really flys the Golf name badge high. While I understand VW's first stance on not bringing any lower end models of the Golf 8 to SA, seeing how good this car is and the price its coming in at, it makes me wonder if they did bring the 1.4 TSI models, how much more they would have sold. Even the base price of the R-Line+ kit seems pretty attractive to me, and you know you're getting a name you can trust in the motor industry. 


SPECIFICATION

Engine
1.4-liter, 4-cylinder TSI
Gear Box
8-Speed tiptronic
Torque
250Nm 
Power
110W
0-100km/h8.5
 seconds
Price
R688,100*

*base price





Wednesday, June 4, 2025

Bucket Tech: Galaxy Tab S10 FE


Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd has announced the Galaxy Tab S10 FE and Galaxy Tab S10 FE+, offering new entry points to the Galaxy ecosystem on a premium tablet design. Equipped with the largest screen yet on the Galaxy Tab FE series and slimmer bezels that expand its display, the Galaxy Tab S10 FE+ provides a fun, immersive viewing experience for everything from entertainment to studying and day-to-day tasks. Samsung’s Intelligent Features empower users to get more done with ease, while a slimmer design helps users to achieve their creativity and productivity on the go.

“The new Galaxy Tab S10 FE series brings advanced mobile AI experience and Samsung’s connected ecosystem to even more tablet users, while still offering cutting-edge performance and design,” said Changtae Kim, EVP & Head of New Computing R&D Team, Mobile eXperience Business at Samsung Electronics. “We’re confident that the slim bezels and expansive displays, in addition to a whole host of functional improvements, will inspire people to do more, create more and discover more.”


Stunning Clarity on a Bigger, Vibrant Display

Combining the Galaxy Tab S series’ heritage design with slim bezels, the Galaxy Tab S10 FE+ 13.1-inch display[i] offers immersive entertainment on a screen that’s almost 12% larger than the previous FE+. Smooth visuals enabled by a 90Hz refresh rate and new levels of visibility up to 800 nits HBM on the Galaxy Tab S10 FE series ensure an optimal viewing experience when watching videos and gaming. Vision Booster’s automatic adjustments enhance brightness and visibility even in ever-changing outdoor environments while blue-light emissions are safely reduced to minimise eye strain, meeting every unique viewing need.

Robust Performance in a Portable Design

The Galaxy Tab S10 FE series boosts productivity when working or studying and delivers fast, smooth gameplay without interruption. Performance upgrades enable the Galaxy Tab S10 FE series to help users switch effortlessly between multiple apps when they are being creative, allowing for improved multi-tasking. And when capturing everyday moments in the classroom or in workspaces, a newly upgraded 13MP high resolution rear camera produces clear and vivid photos.

These versatile experiences, from powerful work to seamless play, accompany users everywhere they go. Now more than 4% lighter than its predecessor, Galaxy Tab S10 FE is even easier to carry around, while the Galaxy S10 Tab FE series offers hassle-free storage and mobility at home, on campus, in the workplace and elsewhere with its slim design. Engineered for resilience and durability to withstand the elements, the FE series also comes with the same IP68 rating as the newest Galaxy Tab S10 series.

Advanced Features Unleash Potential

Building on Samsung’s legacy of delivering premium experiences across the Galaxy ecosystem, the Galaxy Tab S10 FE+ and Galaxy Tab S10 FE are the first models in the FE series to come equipped with innovative AI capabilities right out of the box, fuelling user productivity.

Fan-favourite Circle to Search[ii] with Google allows you to search what you see on your tablet without switching apps. Quickly get the info you need, translate text on screen or get homework help with step-by-step explanations, all on one large screen.


Samsung Notes features like Solve Math for quick calculations of handwriting and text; and Handwriting Help to tidy up notes easily - make notetaking easier than ever so users can stay focused in the moment.

AI assistants are instantly launched with a single tap of the Galaxy AI Key on the Book Cover Keyboard. Plus, AI assistants can be customised based on users’ preferences for a more personalised experience.

An upgraded Object Eraser lets users effortlessly remove unwanted objects from photos, with automatic suggestions for quick and easy edits.

Newly introduced Best Face ensures perfect group photos by selecting and combining the best expressions and features.

Auto Trim brings cherished moments to life by sifting through multiple videos to seamlessly compile highlight reels. 


The Galaxy Tab S10 FE series also serves as the perfect canvas for creativity with pre-loaded apps and tools including LumaFusion, Goodnotes, Clip Studio Paint and more - alongside other spotlight apps like Noteshelf 3, Sketchbook and Picsart.

For an even more intuitive AI experience, the FE series seamlessly integrates with other Samsung Galaxy devices. Similar to the Galaxy Tab S10 series, users can access a comprehensive overview of their home status with the Home Insight widget dashboard and 3D Map View feature. Summarised status updates of SmartThings-enabled devices, give users peace of mind when out and about.

Security Your Way

As with any Galaxy device, the Galaxy Tab S10 FE series is fortified by strong security, Samsung Knox, Samsung Galaxy’s defense-grade, a multi-layer security platform built to safeguard critical information and protect against vulnerabilities with end-to-end hardware, real-time threat detection and collaborative protection.


Availability

From 5 May to 30 June 2025, Samsung is offering exclusive bundle deals on the Galaxy Tab S10 Series. When you purchase any Galaxy Tab S10, you can also receive the Galaxy Buds3 or the Smart Book Cover at the following special bundle rates:

Galaxy Tab S10 FE+ 5G: R15,999

Galaxy Tab S10 FE+ WiFi: R14,999

Galaxy Tab S10 FE 5G: R12,999

Galaxy Tab S10 FE WiFi: R11,999

To claim your Galaxy Buds3 or Smart Book Cover, simply follow the redemption process via Samsung Members.

These amazing devices from the Galaxy Tab S10 FE series come in three colours: Gray, Silver, and Blue.

For more information about the Galaxy Tab S10 FE series, please visit: https://www.samsung.com/sec/tablets/

Tuesday, June 3, 2025

Monday Choon: Simon Gregory - For You

 


Trance producer , DJ and one half of the Digital Drift Duo, Simon Gregory has teamed up with Mondo Records to release his track "ForYou". The track is the first release in the their Mondo 25 years series. Simon says "For You" is a love letter to the golden era of progressive trance and the song is just that with blending soaring melodic breaks and powerful big room pulses all which tie in beautifully with the calming vocals. Simon says "This is Trance 2.0 re imagined for 2025, turn it up and feel the rush!"

Thursday, May 29, 2025

Bucket Seat: BMW M2 CS

Meet BMW's all new M2 CS, the sledgehammer!  First shown this week at the prestigious Concorso d'Eleganza  at Villa d'Este on the shores of Lake Como in Italy. A car show for those with a more refined taste in automobiles, one would hardly picture a CS owner in loafers, 3/4 chinos and bow tie sipping fine Champagne with carviar laced horderves but regardless, BMW always loves to challenge the norm and they did so with some fashion. The new BMW M2 CS further raises the bar for sheer driving pleasure at the premium end of the compact high-performance sports car segment. Outstanding agility, a significant increase in power output, supreme dynamics and particularly sporty design characteristics make driving the latest exclusive special-edition model from BMW M GmbH an enthralling experience. 


The new BMW M2 CS is based on the second generation of the BMW M2 and significantly improves what is already an extraordinary level of performance. For example, the high-revving six-cylinder in-line engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology develops an impressive 390 kW in the BMW M2 CS. That is 37 kW more than in the current BMW M2. As such, the BMW M2 CS matches the performance of the BMW M3 Competition Sedan with M xDrive and the BMW M4 Competition Coupé with M xDrive. The BMW M2 CS sends its power to the rear wheels via the eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic, which comes as standard.


For the BMW M2 CS, BMW M GmbH has opted for an upgraded version of the 3.0-litre, six-cylinder in-line engine found in the standard M2. This intensifies the performance experience in the special edition, particularly in highly dynamic driving situations. It further sharpens the engine’s unmistakable power characteristics and perfectly accentuates the linear power delivery – sustained into the higher reaches of the rev range – familiar from M models. Compared to the BMW M2 with standard eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic, maximum torque has been raised by 50 Nm to 650 Nm and is available across a broad rev range – between 2,650 and 5,730 rpm. The engine produces its maximum power output of 390 kW at 6,250 rpm, with the engine speed topping out at 7,200 rpm. In order to allow extremely rapid reactions to the driver’s requests for acceleration and to make the improved performance characteristics of the engine a particularly intense experience, the accelerator mapping and response have been optimised in all the drive modes, which are selectable via the M Setup menu.


A model-specific engine mounting with a higher spring rate makes for a particularly rigid connection of the drive unit to the structure of the BMW M2 CS. The extremely direct transmission of power to the drivetrain optimises response. Thanks to the lightning-fast power delivery, in combination with the increased engine power and the car’s lighter weight, the BMW M2 CS is able to break the four-second barrier for the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h. It’s time of 3.8 seconds is 0.2 seconds faster than for the standard M2. The figure calculated using the “1-foot rollout” method** is 3.5 seconds. The increase in power also enhances acceleration from rest to 200 km/h. The time required here is reduced by 1.2 seconds to 11.7 seconds – or 11.4 seconds according to the “1‑foot rollout” method**. The mid-range sprint from 80 to 120 km/h takes 3.4 seconds. The top speed of the special-edition model, which comes with the M Driver’s Package as standard, is electronically limited to 302 km/h. The dynamic power delivery is backed by an emotionally rich engine note conjured by the M-specific exhaust system with electrically controlled flaps and the four exhaust pipes typical of M, which come in matte black on the BMW M2 CS. For those wishing to retrofit their car, the M Performance silencer system with carbon and titanium tailpipe trims developed specifically for CS models is available for the first time in the range of M Performance Parts for the BMW M2 CS. The lightweight valve exhaust system with titanium mufflers generates a racing-car sound guaranteed to stir the emotions. The Active Sound Design helps to convey the engine’s soundtrack authentically inside the cabin, with the intensity raised another notch when SPORT or SPORT PLUS mode is selected using the Driving Experience Control switch.


The punchy exterior of the BMW M2 CS is shaped by many components made of carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) and other exclusive details. As well as the M exterior mirror caps familiar from the BMW M2, the M Carbon roof – which comes as standard on the special-edition model – and CS-specific rear diffuser are also made from eye-catching exposed carbon fibre. A front splitter in matte black and an exclusive black BMW M kidney grille with optimised air inlets complete the sporty and dynamic look. The lightweight CFRP boot lid with integrated ducktail is a real head-turner. The “M2 CS” logo on the rear has a red outline. Four colours are available for the exterior finish of the new BMW M2 CS: Sapphire Black metallic, BMW Individual Velvet Blue metallic, M Brooklyn Grey metallic and M Portimao Blue metallic. Adaptive LED Headlights with BMW Selective Beam non-dazzling High Beam Assistant and M lights Shadowline with dark inlays are also standard.


The BMW M2 CS will be available locally in the second quarter of 2026, with pricing and number of models being announced closer to the time. 

Tuesday, May 27, 2025

Bucket Tech: HUAWEI Innovative Product Launch 2025

The all-new HUAWEI WATCH 5 introduces trailblazing innovations that herald an era of intelligent interaction. A key highlight is the significantly enhanced HUAWEI TruSense™ System, which now integrates the new Multi-sensing X-TAP Technology, powered by a Distributed Sensor Module. This advanced system allows users to perform health monitoring with fingertip measurements effortlessly, ensuring accurate, faster, and comprehensive health insights. Additionally, gesture control has been upgraded to support "Double Slide" and "Double Tap", providing users with more intuitive interaction. The HUAWEI WATCH 5 also debuts in exclusive Purple and Sand Gold colours, introducing a palette that speaks to quiet luxury and bold individuality.


With HUAWEI WATCH 5, the future of wearable tech gets personal — sharper insights, smarter design, and health features that work harder. HUAWEI WATCH 5 will be available in South Africa from the 2nd of June through Huawei's online platforms only, and in selected retailers from the beginning of July, at a starting recommended retail price of R9 999.00

New flagship products unveiled in a fusion of technology and aesthetics

Alongside the HUAWEI WATCH 5, Huawei introduced several other flagship products, including the HUAWEI WATCH FIT 4 Series, HUAWEI FreeBuds 6, and the HUAWEI MatePad Pro 12.2-inch.

The HUAWEI WATCH FIT 4 Series stays true to its signature square watch face and ‘Fashion Active' philosophy, promoting an energetic, health-conscious lifestyle. Featuring an ultra-slim and lightweight design for comfort, the HUAWEI WATCH FIT 4 Pro measures just 9.3 mm in thickness. The HUAWEI WATCH FIT 4 Pro supports pro-level outdoor sports, including trail running, dive-depth of up to 40 meters, and golf course mode, enhanced by the HUAWEI TruSense System for comprehensive and smarter health management.


The HUAWEI WATCH FIT 4 Series will be available in South Africa on Huawei's online platform from the 2nd of June 2025, retailing at R2 999.00. Or from selected authorised Huawei retailers starting from R99.00 per month, over 36 months. You will be able to purchase the HUAWEI Fit 4 Pro from R4 999.00 on Huawei's online platform or at a starting price of R149.00 per month over 36 months at selected authorised Huawei retailers.

The HUAWEI FreeBuds 6 are Huawei’s first open-fit earbuds to feature dual-magnetic driver units. Equipped with Stable & Clear Calls Noise Cancellation technology and a refined, sleek droplet design, these earbuds deliver a seamless and immersive audio experience.


Arrival date and pricing of the HUAWEI FreeBuds 6 to be confirmed.

The HUAWEI MatePad Pro 12.2-inch 2025 incorporates an inventive Tandem OLED PaperMatte Display, significantly boosting screen brightness while enhancing its anti-glare and anti-reflection capabilities. Paired with the Huawei Glide Keyboard and an upgraded HUAWEI Notes application, the HUAWEI MatePad Pro 12.2-inch 2025 is built to transform how you work, create and stay organised.  Creativity also gets a boost with the new 3D Oil Painting Brush, which replicates the rich layering of oils, watercolours, and acrylics, and an Animation feature that turns layers into sequential frames for smooth, natural motion.



The HUAWEI MatePad Pro 12.2-inch 2025 will be available in South Africa towards the end of July, pricing to be confirmed.

Active Rings inspire a new way to enjoy every moment of active living

Tapping into the global shift toward mindful movement and fitness, Huawei has evolved its “Light Up Your Rings” campaign into “Active Rings”, centred around the philosophy of “Enjoy Your Moment”. With more than 100 sport modes integrated across its wearable range, Huawei empowers users of all ages and fitness levels to stay active and embrace health in ways that suit their individual lifestyles.

According to IDC's latest report, Huawei ranked first globally in year-over-year growth for wearable device shipments in 2024 and has maintained the top position in the Chinese market share for six consecutive years.

With a distinctive mix of health tech and fashion-forward design, Huawei Wearables are shaping global health trends and have become a statement of personal style worldwide.