Monday Choon: Darren Tate & Genix - Taking Us Higher

 

Genix is no stranger to this feature on our blog with him having featured multiple times over the years, this time see's him team up with Darren Tate,with a legacy in dance music spanning over two decades and multiple aliases, the British multi-instrumentalist, Darren Tate, has racked up twelve Top 40 UK singles across his established career as DT8 Project, Angelic with Judge Jules, Jurgen Vries, Orion and Citizen Caned. Taking us higher which is the title of today's featured track is a mixture of sounds from the duo that just flows with harmony. 

Bucket Seat: Mercedes-Maybach SL Monogram Series

The Mercedes-Maybach SL Monogram Series redefines the roadster as a masterpiece of sensory indulgence. It is the sportiest and most extravagant model in Maybach’s storied history, blending the exhilarating soul of a sports car with the whispered luxury of a private sanctuary.

In keeping with the brand philosophy, the Mercedes-Maybach SL offers a holistic sensory experience. The contours of the brand-specific, chrome-finished radiator grille are illuminated, as is the finely integrated MAYBACH lettering. The distinctive bonnet bears an upright Mercedes star and a chromed fin running front to rear along its centre. 

Curated Ambience: A Study in Contrast

Every line of the Maybach SL is an invitation to witness automotive artistry. The Monogram Series debuts with two meticulously curated concepts, each offering a distinct personality. Red Ambience pairs Obsidian Black metallic with the vibrant, multi-layered depth of MANUFAKTUR Garnet Red metallic. For a more ethereal presence, White Ambience balances Obsidian Black with the luminous MANUFAKTUR Opalite White Magno.

A Cocoon of Light and Air

The interior is designed to convey a feeling of weightless elegance. Wrapped entirely in sustainably tanned Crystal White MANUFAKTUR Exclusive Nappa leather, the cabin creates a cocooning effect that remains airy and open. From the new floral design of the comfort seats to the silver chrome accents and galvanized backrests, every detail is a testament to skilled craftsmanship. The acoustic-comfort soft top, featuring a discreetly integrated Maybach pattern, ensures that even with the top closed, the cabin remains a serene gallery of silence.

Effortless Power, Refined Precision

The heart of the Maybach SL is a 4.0-litre biturbo V8, delivering a commanding 430 kW. This power is managed by the 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission and fully variable 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive, ensuring every journey is as secure as it is spirited. The driving experience is further elevated by Maybach-specific suspension featuring semi-active hydraulic roll stabilisation and softer steel springs to absorb road imperfections. Comprehensive insulation measures and a noise-optimized exhaust system preserve the tranquillity typical of the brand, while standard rear-axle steering provides the precision required for winding coastal roads, making the Maybach SL as manoeuvrable as it is majestic.

"We want to surprise, inspire, and excite. This is a true Maybach for the ultimate in open-air-motoring enjoyment." Alexandra Boavida Mercedes-Benz South Africa

Pricing: R5 092 000 (incl vat, ex CO2) and 5 year / 100 000km service and maintenance plan

Bucket Tech: Samsung Unveils Galaxy A57 5G and Galaxy A37 5G

Samsung Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. has announced the new Galaxy A57 5G and Galaxy A37 5G, the latest Galaxy A series devices that bring Samsung’s newest mobile innovations  including enriched Awesome Intelligence to more users worldwide. The latest Galaxy A series reflects Samsung’s commitment to expanding AI (artificial intelligence) capabilities across more devices and empowering more users to harness the power of intuitive AI that simplifies everyday tasks. Galaxy A57 5G and Galaxy A37 5G strengthen the experiences users rely on every day with upgrades to performance, camera and display, alongside durability and security features. With up to six generations of OS upgrades and security support, the new Galaxy A series is built with longevity in mind. Leading the lineup is Galaxy A57 5G, featuring a slimmer, more refined design and upgraded AI-powered capabilities that make it the most powerful Galaxy A series device yet.

“The new Galaxy A series reflects our continued commitment to AI democratisation by bringing the latest innovations to more Galaxy users,” said, Chief Executive Officer, President, and Head of Device eXperience (DX) Division at Samsung Electronics. “With Samsung’s fundamental capabilities combined with enriched Awesome Intelligence, Galaxy A57 5G and Galaxy A37 5G will deliver reliable everyday performance to users around the world and drive rapid AI expansion.”

 Enriched Awesome Intelligence Designed for Everyday Life

Through the latest One UI 8.5, Galaxy A57 5G and A37 5G extend Samsung’s latest AI innovations to more users, with Awesome Intelligence that helps people get more things done with ease while unlocking new ways to create and stay productive.

Voice Transcription is new to the Voice Recorder app, making it easier to revisit important details from meetings, lectures or calls by transcribing and translating call recordings or turning voicemails audio into text. AI Select is easier to access with a long press on the Edge Panel, surfacing relevant actions directly on the screen to extract text or create content without manually selecting items. AI Select also supports Drag & Drop in Multi-Window layout, allowing users to easily move images into Samsung Notes or Photo Editor for faster editing and improved productivity.

Awesome Intelligence makes everyday photo editing easier than ever. Object Eraser now delivers more natural results when removing unwanted distractions, like a passerby in the background or clutter in a café. On Galaxy A57 5G, Best Face supports more photos and continuous shooting, making it easier to capture the spectacular group photos where everyone looks their best. Fan favourite tools like Filters and Edit Suggestions help users quickly refine and share moments without extra effort, while Galaxy A57 5G also features Auto Trim for even easier video editing.

Circle to Search with Google adds multi-object recognition so users can easily explore multiple items in an image at once from an outfit to surrounding accessories  all in one search.

The new Galaxy A series expands Awesome Intelligence experiences with a choice of agents designed to simplify everyday tasks from search to organising plans or easily adjusting settings. As a conversational device agent, upgraded Bixby lets users intuitively control Galaxy settings and features using natural language, while Gemini navigates complex tasks across native Galaxy apps and select third-party apps to support faster, more intuitive interactions.

Awesome Camera to Capture Clearer Photos and Videos, Day or Night

As AI becomes more deeply integrated into mobile experiences, camera performance remains essential to delivering the everyday usability and satisfaction users expect.

Galaxy A57 5G and A37 5G deliver brighter, clearer visuals powered by the upgraded camera hardware and an improved Image Signal Processor (ISP). The devices feature a versatile triple-camera system, led by a 50MP main sensor, delivering sharp, detailed images across a wide range of lighting conditions without the need for manual adjustments.

When the lights go down, the Galaxy A57 5G and A37 5G camera adapts seamlessly with improved Nightography, making it easier to capture clear and true-to-life photos and videos even in low light conditions.

Galaxy A57 5G takes photography a step further with enhanced image processing that sharpens detail and reduces noise for even clearer, more vibrant results. It delivers rich contrast and balanced colour even in challenging light, while with a faster shutter speed, users can instantly capture fleeting moments faster and with improved clarity. 

Galaxy A57 5G and A37 5G also benefit from AI-based subject recognition and scene optimisation to balance portraits, preserve natural skin tones and create clearer background separation. When the moment calls for a wider perspective, the ultra-wide lens captures more in every group photo or landscape view, while the 5MP macro camera reveals fine details up close for added creative flexibility.

Performance for Streaming and Multitasking

Galaxy A57 5G delivers the best of both design and performance, combining upgraded CPU, GPU and NPU to deliver improved performance with its sleek and light form. Built for streaming, scrolling and content creation, its refined design features a glossy finish and distinctive triple-camera island for a standout modern look that feels comfortable in-hand.

Despite its slimmer profile, Galaxy A57 5G packs powerful performance. Its 5,000mAh battery supports up to two days of use powering everything from filming and editing to viewing on the go. Super-Fast Charging 2.0 reaches up to 60% in around 30 minutes for a quick boost before heading out, while a 13% larger vapor chamber helps sustain performance during extended gaming or recording. Slimmer bezels and a bright Super AMOLED + display with Vision Booster ensure an immersive, clear viewing experience indoors and outside.

Built for everyday use, Galaxy A57 5G and A37 5G are rated IP68 for water and dust resistance, adding durability in real-world environments and offering users peace of mind if accidents happen. 

Long-Term Support and Foundational Security

Galaxy A57 5G and A37 5G reinforce Samsung’s commitment to device longevity, offering up to six generations of Android OS and One UI upgrades, along with up to six years of security updates giving users the confidence to rely on their device for years to come.

Samsung provides a fortified layer of device safety, transparency and user choice with Knox Vault, a hardware-based, tamper-resistant security solution. Galaxy A series offers users holistic protection through innovative security and privacy features including Security & Privacy Dashboard, Auto Blocker, Private Sharing, Theft Protection as well as the new Private Album, a Gallery feature that allows users to lock away personal media quickly and easily. Unlike traditional safeguards, the latest A series devices also proactively notify users about potential risks with Privacy Alerts, which are intelligent notifications that offer clearer insight and control over location permissions or suspicious monitoring of sensitive data. Together, these enhancements make security feel as intuitive as the rest of the experience, making device protection easier than ever for everyone.

Availability

Galaxy A57 5G and A37 5G will be available in South Africa. The Galaxy A57 5G will be offered in Awesome Navy, Awesome Gray, while Galaxy A37 5G comes in Awesome Lavender, Awesome Gray and Awesome Dark Green For added peace of mind, Samsung Care+ offers comprehensive coverage optimised to users' device needs, including tailored benefits that protect your value in the device.

The Galaxy A57 is priced from R11,999, and the Galaxy A37 starts from R8,699. Buy your new Galaxy A series on pre-paid from Samsung stores, Incredible Connection or on Takealot, and add a Galaxy Fit3 and save R699 or add a Galaxy Buds Core and save R799..

For more information on Galaxy A57 5G and Galaxy A37 5G, please visit: Samsung Newsroom, SamsungMobilePress.com or Samsung.com.

Monday Choon: Armin van Buuren & Andrew Bayer - Serendipity

 

There's nothing better than starting off the week with some trance music and who better than the king of trance Armin van Buuren who teams up with Andrew Bayer for our featured track of the week. "Serendipity" is a collaborative melodic trance single produced by Dutch trance icon Armin van Buuren and American producer Andrew Bayer, officially released on 7 May 2026. The track was highly anticipated by electronic dance music fans after being teased heavily as an unreleased festival ID. It serves as a prominent focal point for the A State of Trance 2026 compilation album.

Bucket Seat: Suzuki Grand Vitara GLX

Anyone who has been keeping an eye on the NAAMSA monthly sales figures would have noticed that Suzuki sales has been surged over the last year and with good reason too. The Swift remains one of the most reliable and affordable budget friendly options when it comes to an entry level hatch back, its solid, it's comfortable and most importantly, its light on fuel. The rest of their line-up has also been picking up, with the likes of the Jimny being a firm favourite for many. With their JV with Toyota which see's a lot of their vehicles wear the Toyota badge, it has done them some harm with the consumer opting to go for the bigger Japanese name rather than the Suzuki, when the new shape Grand Vitara was first launch, Suzuki SA thought they'd hold the trump card by only offering Toyota SA to sell the 1.5L naturally aspirated engine while they had exclusivity over the 1.5L Hybrid, unfortunately for Suzuki, the price of this Hybrid model saw them sitting with stock as many opted for the Toyota version or if they wanted a Hybrid, they went and bought the Corolla Cross XS which was not a lot more than the Grand Vitara. After burning their fingers, Suzuki decided to can the Hybrid and bring their 1.5L N/A model to compete directly with the Toyota Urban Cruise but offering a bit more. I spent some time with this model and here are my thoughts.

DESIGN

The Suzuki Grand Vitara doesn’t scream for attention but it doesn’t need to. It’s one of those SUVs that grows on you the more you look at it. Up front, you’ve got a bold, upright stance with a layered grille and sharp LED lighting that gives it a modern edge, while the clamshell bonnet and squared-off proportions subtly nod to its heritage. Around the back, the clean surfacing and light bar keep things contemporary without overcomplicating the design. It’s not flashy like some of the Korean alternatives, but there’s an honesty to it that works. Whether you’re pulling up in Sandton or heading out onto a gravel road, it looks perfectly at home in the South African landscape. The little details they add to the exterior of the car make the Grand Vitara stand out more than the Urban Cruiser, the chrome accents, LED lighting and panoramic sunroof give the Suzuki so much more character. 

PERFORMANCE

Under the bonnet, the Grand Vitara is powered by a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine, and you feel exactly what that suggests. Around town, it’s smooth and easy-going, making it perfectly suited to daily commuting and stop-start traffic. It doesn’t feel strained in normal driving, and it delivers power in a predictable, linear way. However, the moment you push it whether it’s overtaking on the highway or tackling a steep incline with passengers it starts to feel a bit out of its depth. The 4-speed automatic gearbox adds to that feeling, as it’s more about reliability than responsiveness, and can come across as slightly dated compared to newer transmissions. That said, the bigger picture tells a different story. Fuel consumption is impressively low, which is a major advantage given South Africa’s fuel prices, and the mild-hybrid system helps smooth out low-speed driving while improving efficiency even further. It’s not built to excite, but it is built to make financial sense.

COMFORT

This is where the Grand Vitara really comes into its own. The ride quality is genuinely impressive, soaking up bumps, potholes, and uneven road surfaces with a level of composure that feels tailor-made for South African conditions. It’s the kind of car that makes long-distance driving feel effortless rather than tiring. The cabin is well insulated, keeping road and wind noise to a minimum, which adds to that relaxed driving experience. Inside, there’s enough space for five adults to sit comfortably without feeling cramped, and while the boot isn’t the biggest in the segment, it’s practical enough for everyday use. The seats are supportive and comfortable, making it a great companion for both daily commutes and longer road trips. It’s not trying to be luxurious, but it gets the fundamentals of comfort absolutely right.

TECHNOLOGY

Suzuki has equipped the Grand Vitara with all the essentials you’d expect from a modern SUV, without going overboard. The infotainment system is easy to use and integrates seamlessly with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while features like wireless charging, keyless entry, and a reverse camera add everyday convenience. Everything works as it should, and that’s really the point there’s no unnecessary complexity or gimmicks. On the safety side, it’s well covered with multiple airbags, stability control, and driver assistance features that give you peace of mind on the road. It may not have the cutting-edge tech you’d find in more premium offerings, but it delivers where it counts for the average South African driver.

VERDICT

The Suzuki Grand Vitara isn’t trying to be the fastest, the flashiest, or the most high-tech SUV in its class, and that’s actually its biggest strength. It focuses on what really matters in South Africa, like fuel efficiency, comfort on less-than-perfect roads, reliability, and overall affordability. If you’re looking for something thrilling, this isn’t it. But if you want a dependable, comfortable, and cost-effective SUV that fits seamlessly into everyday life, it makes a very compelling case for itself. It’s not the car you show off about at a braai, but it’s the one that quietly proves its worth every single day.

SPECIFICATIONS

Engine	1.5-liter Naturally Aspirated
Gear Box	4-Speed Automatic
Power	77kW
Torque	138Nm
Fuel Economy	5.6L per 100km
Price	R453,900.00

Bucket Tech: Galaxy S26 Audio Eraser

Audio Eraser on Galaxy devices reduces unnecessary noise in videos and amplifies desired sounds, enabling a more immersive viewing experience. First introduced for editing saved content on the Galaxy S25 series, the feature has evolved significantly over the generations. Audio Eraser expanded to support playback adjustments within native apps such as Gallery and Voice Recorder on Galaxy Z Fold7 and Z Flip7.

Now, with the Galaxy S26 series, it has reached new heights by supporting real-time audio control on content streamed across various platforms. In this article, we’ll dive deeper into these advancements.

From Fix it Later to Filter it Now

Starting with the Galaxy S26 series, Audio Eraser has evolved into a live audio experience. It enables real-time sound separation and optimisation across voices, music and background noise, not only for recorded content but also for over-the-top (OTT) or social media content you are watching. This advancement shifts the focus from post-recording edits to real-time audio management.

By integrating an AI (artificial intelligence) sound engine with advanced sound separation technology, the Galaxy S26 series allows you to adjust and control recorded sound as it occurs. This enables a clear, immersive listening experience across various streaming platforms by effectively erasing distracting background noise.

Seamless Access, Total Control

You can easily adjust noise and reduce distractions directly from the Quick panel without needing to rewind or replay content. While the video is playing, simply swipe down from the top right of the screen and tap the Audio Eraser icon to start filtering the sound right away.

Once activated, the feature offers advanced controls for a more professional touch. You can adjust the “Strength” slider to fine-tune noise reduction and enable “Voice Focus” to focus/prioritise on  dialogue in the video.

With the Galaxy S26 series, you can enjoy tailored sound quality in real-time, for the different types of content you watch.

Access Audio Eraser via the Quick panel on the Galaxy S26 series, with controls to adjust “Strength” and enable “Voice focus.”

Audio Eraser is no longer limited to reducing noise. It now allows you to easily design your sound in real time. Enjoy the more personalised and comfortable listening experience with the Galaxy S26 series.

Monday Choon: Grum & Amba Shepherd - Slow Motion

 

Scottish producer Grum returns to Above & Beyond’s Anjunabeats imprint, alongside legendary singer/songwriter Amba Shepherd for their new collaboration ‘Slow Motion’.

A prolific progressive house producer and longtime Anjuna roster act, Grum releases his first song on the label in over four years. First joining the label in 2015 with his ‘Trine EP’ Grum quickly grew to a respected name in the scene.  He shared stages around the world with Above & Beyond as one of their frequent direct support acts and his music  has routinely been supported by; Armin van Buuren, Tiesto, CamelPhat, MK & more.

 ‘Slow Motion’ is Grum’s hyped return, teased by Above & Beyond at their recent shows in South America as well as the trio’s upcoming shows at EDC Las Vegas, their Australian tour and on further dates through North America.  Grum has also road tested the track himself over 2025 and early 2026 at his show across the United States. 

Bucket Seat: Audi S3

The Audi S3 Sportback has always been the thinking person’s hot hatch understated, fast, and clinically competent. This latest update doesn’t reinvent the formula, but it refines it in all the right places and, finally, injects a bit of emotion into the drive. While many may think this is just a minor face-lift, I soon discover during my time with it that it is much more than that. Of recent, Audi have been bringing out a mixed bag in-terms of their models, especially when it comes to the interior and technology but I see it's slowly converging into one across all models. This new S3 offers a dynamic package to all sorts of drivers, not only the speed fanatics, I spent a week with it and these are my thoughts. 

DESIGN

Audi has evolved the S3 rather than redesigned it, but the changes are meaningful. Up front, the wider Singleframe grille now sits lower and flatter, giving the car a more planted, purposeful stance. The new front bumper design, with larger air intakes and sharper detailing, adds visual drama without tipping into boy-racer territory. The lighting is a big talking point those Matrix LED headlights now come with selectable daytime running light signatures, which sounds gimmicky until you see them in traffic. It gives the car a subtle layer of identity that most rivals don’t offer. Along the sides, the S3 keeps its tight, muscular proportions. The shoulder line is crisp, the wheel arches are pronounced, and those larger alloy wheels fill them out properly. It looks compact, but not small aggressive, but not loud. At the rear, the quad exhaust tips (a proper S signature) sit within a more sculpted diffuser, and the updated taillights tie everything together. It’s a clean, cohesive design that will age well important if you’re spending this kind of money in South Africa where resale value matters.

PERFORMANCE

This is where the biggest evolution happens. The familiar 2.0-litre turbocharged engine has been pushed to 245 kW and 420 Nm, and it feels properly urgent from the moment you get on the throttle. The power delivery is linear but punchy, with peak torque coming in early, which makes it incredibly usable in everyday driving whether you’re overtaking on the highway or darting through city traffic. 0–100 km/h comes up in around 4.7 seconds, but numbers don’t fully capture how quick it feels. The S tronic gearbox deserves credit here shifts are rapid and smooth, whether you’re cruising or pushing hard. Now, the real game changer: the torque splitter. This transforms the S3 from a grip-and-go machine into something far more engaging. It actively distributes torque between the rear wheels, which means you can actually feel the car rotate into corners instead of just pulling itself through them. On a twisty road  think KZN Midlands or a quiet stretch of Notties the S3 now feels alive. It’s still incredibly composed, but there’s a newfound willingness to play, especially in Dynamic or Dynamic Plus modes. Grip levels remain immense thanks to quattro all-wheel drive, but now there’s balance and adjustability to go with it. It’s no longer just efficient  it’s entertaining.

COMFORT

This is where the S3 quietly dominates a lot of its rivals. It’s fast, yes, but it’s also incredibly easy to live with. The sport seats strike a great balance supportive enough when you’re pushing on, but still comfortable for longer drives. Cabin insulation is excellent, with minimal road and wind noise, which makes highway cruising relaxed rather than tiring. The ride quality deserves a mention, especially for South African conditions. Even on larger wheels, it manages to absorb bumps and imperfect road surfaces without feeling crashy. It’s firm, no doubt, but controlled exactly what you want in a performance hatch you’ll use daily. Space is another win. The Sportback layout gives you a practical boot and usable rear seats, making it viable for small families or anyone who needs more than just a weekend toy. It’s one of those cars you can drive to a client meeting in Umhlanga during the week and take on a road trip over the weekend without compromise. 

TECHNOLOGY

Audi’s interiors are still among the best in the business, and the S3 benefits from that. The layout is clean and driver-focused, with everything angled slightly toward you. The Virtual Cockpit remains a standout — crisp, configurable, and genuinely useful rather than just flashy. You can prioritise navigation, performance data, or keep it clean depending on your mood. The central 10.1-inch touchscreen is responsive and easy to use, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto making connectivity seamless. Importantly, Audi hasn’t buried everything in menus key functions are still accessible without frustration. You also get premium touches like the SONOS 3D sound system, ambient lighting with multiple colour options, and optional extras like a head-up display. Safety and driver assistance tech is comprehensive too adaptive cruise control, lane assist, park assist all working in the background without being intrusive. It’s a tech suite that enhances the experience rather than overwhelming it.

VERDICT

For South African buyers, the Audi S3 Sportback hits a very sweet spot. Yes, it’s expensive, sitting just north of the R1 million mark, but what you’re getting is a genuinely well-rounded package with a name that's been around for ages. Many compare it to Audi's version of the Golf R but its so much more than that. It may not have the outright madness of something like an A45, but it doesn’t need to. The S3 is about balance and it absolutely nails it. If you want one car that can do everything in the South African context  handle traffic, deal with our roads, carry people comfortably, and still deliver proper performance when you want it  the S3 Sportback makes a very compelling case. It’s no longer just the sensible choice. It’s now got just enough edge to make you choose it with your heart too.

SPECIFICATIONS

Engine	2.0-liter Turbo
Gear Box	S-Tronic Automatic
Power	245kW
Torque	420Nm
0-100km/h	4.7 seconds
Price	R1,091,100

Bucket Tech: HUAWEI Mate 80 Pro

HUAWEI has unveiled the HUAWEI Mate 80 Pro. This latest addition to its iconic Mate Series brings together advanced imaging, refined design, and powerful performance in a single flagship device. Inspired by the richness of the natural world, the HUAWEI Mate 80 Pro is available in two distinctive colour finishes: Gold and Black. Starting from R21,999 or R839 per month over 36 months, the HUAWEI Mate 80 Pro will be available from 07 April 2026 via HUAWEI’s official online store and selected retailers.

Customers will benefit from a range of value-added offers, including premium accessories, service support, and 200GB of HUAWEI Mobile Cloud storage free for the first month, exclusive to the HUAWEI Mate 80 Pro. Ts and Cs apply.

A Leap Forward in Colour Accuracy

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

The new DCG HDR technology enhances dynamic range by up to 300%. In high-contrast scenes, such as backlit portraits or sunset landscapes, it preserves highlight detail and shadow colour without distortion. The 5cm telephoto macro capability adds versatility, enabling both detailed close-up shots and long-range photography, turning everyday moments into captivating images.

New Super Durable Architecture

Equipped with 2nd Generation Kunlun Glass, the HUAWEI Mate 80 Pro display features high-strength nanocrystals for enhanced durability. It offers up to 20x greater drop resistance than conventional glass, significantly reducing the risk of screen damage. The back panel is crafted from ultra-durable vegan fibre, offering a silky-smooth texture that feels refined and elegant in hand. Its impact resistance is enhanced by up to 5x, allowing the device to withstand daily bumps and scrapes while maintaining its pristine appearance. With IP68 water resistance and IP69 resistance to high-temperature, high-pressure water jets, along with a multi-layer sealing design, the device delivers comprehensive protection against water and dust intrusion.

Exceptional Performance

The HUAWEI Mate 80 Pro is powered by a massive 5750mAh battery, easily supporting all-day usage. It supports 100W wired SuperCharge and 80W wireless SuperCharge for fast and convenient charging. Featuring the SuperCool Dual Phase Change Heat Dissipation System, the device remains cooler during extended, demanding use. This ensures consistently smooth performance for tasks such as gaming, live streaming and creative work. With a 21% boost in overall system performance, the HUAWEI Mate 80 Pro handles demanding tasks with ease, delivering smoother workflows and a consistently responsive experience without compromising power efficiency.

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

Availability and Offers

The HUAWEI Mate 80 Pro will be available from 07 April 2026, with pricing starting from R21,999 or R839 per month over 36 months via HUAWEI’s official online store and selected retailers. At launch, customers can look forward to a range of value-added benefits, including the HUAWEI Band 10 and HUAWEI FreeBuds SE 2, a one-year HUAWEI Care+ plan, a screen protection service, and a charger and protective cover.

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

Monday Choon: Alok & Khalid - Dive Into Me

New music this week from Brazlian DJ Alok who teams up with vocal sensation Khalid for his latest track "Dive Into Me". the instrumental track has been out for some time now and been played by many artists during their sets but the addition of Khalid's vocals has been a game changer to the song and makes it feel complete.