Huawei’s 26 Feb 2026 Madrid event revealed a powerful and diverse lineup:

• A true global flagship smartphone (Mate 80 Pro) with local South African availability in April 2026.
• Next-gen wireless audio with premium features on FreeBuds Pro 5.
• Performance wearables for runners and everyday tracking.
• A lineup of fitness bands aimed at affordable everyone-day health monitoring.
• And a compact tablet that already has a confirmed SA window.

Madrid, Spain — 26 February 2026: Huawei has kicked off 2026 with a show-stopping global launch event, revealing a slate of cutting-edge hardware designed to push performance, connectivity, and health tracking to new heights. The lineup included flagship smartphones, ultra-premium earbuds, advanced wearables, and a compact high-performance tablet.

From global debuts to confirmed South African arrival windows, here’s everything announced and what it means for consumers locally.

HUAWEI Mate 80 Pro: New Flagship Smartphone

The Mate 80 Pro marks Huawei’s return to flagship smartphone territory in global markets and is confirmed to launch locally in South Africa in April 2026.

Key Specs & Features

• Display: 6.75-inch 1.5K LTPO OLED with 120 Hz refresh rate, vibrant visuals with smooth motion.
• Processor: Kirin 9030 Pro (top-end) for flagship-level performance.
• Memory & Storage: Up to 16 GB RAM and up to 1 TB storage.
• Camera System:
  • 50 MP main sensor with advanced True-to-Colour imaging,
  • 48 MP periscope telephoto with macro support,
  • 40 MP ultra-wide lens,
  • 13 MP front camera + 3D depth sensor.
• Battery & Charging: 5750 mAh with 100 W wired + 80 W wireless charging, and reverse charging support.
• Connectivity & Build: 5G, Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, IP69 water/dust resistance, and large-format Dual Space Rings design.
• Software: Runs EMUI 15 on top of Android.

Why It Matters: This is Huawei’s first mainstream non-foldable Mate flagship in South Africa since 2022, offering powerhouse imaging and premium hardware for content creators and prosumers alike.

HUAWEI WATCH GT Runner 2: Elite Multi-Sport Wearable

Huawei’s newest performance smartwatch was designed with serious runners and athletes in mind.

Key Specs:

• Display: 1.32-inch AMOLED screen with crisp visibility.
• Build: Titanium alloy case and buttons for premium durability.
• Fitness & Health: Heart rate, SpO₂, sleep, stress, HRV, ECG support plus 100+ sports modes.
• GPS: Dual-band L1 + L5 positioning with improved accuracy, key for runners.
• Battery Life: Up to 32 h in outdoor workout mode and strong multi-day usage on a charge.
• Connectivity: Bluetooth calling, NFC support, 5 ATM water resistance.

Availability: Globally available from 26 Feb 2026; South African launch timing is expected to follow shortly (likely Q2 2026), though local pricing is yet to be confirmed.

HUAWEI FreeBuds Pro 5: Premium ANC Earbuds

Huawei took aim at top wireless audio with its most advanced earbuds yet.

Key Specs & Features

• Acoustics: Dual-engine ANC and dual-driver system (micro planar tweeter + mid/bass woofer) for rich, detailed sound.
• Noise Cancellation: Up to ~220 % more effective than predecessors with multi-mic array.
• Codecs: Broad support including AAC, LDAC, and Huawei L2HC lossless audio.
• Battery: ~6–9 h per earbud depending on ANC use; 30 + h total via the charging case.
• Water Resistance: IP57 rating on earbuds.

Availability: Launched globally 26 Feb 2026; local South African availability and pricing expected in Q2–Q3 2026.

HUAWEI Band 11 Pro & Band 11: Smart Fitness Bands

Huawei refreshed its smart band portfolio with both standard and Pro variants.

Band 11 Pro – Key Specs

• Display: 1.62-inch AMOLED with 286×482 resolution and up to 2000-nit brightness.
• Sensors: 9-axis IMU, optical heart rate, ambient light.
• Battery: Up to 14 days typical use.
• Water Resistance: 5 ATM for swim-friendly tracking.

Band 11 – Key Specs

• Matches the core display and sensor suite of the Pro, with slightly smaller battery capacity but similar multi-day life.
• Tracks heart rate, SpO₂, sleep, cycle health, and activity modes.

Launch Windows: Globally available from early March 2026; this includes both the Band 11 and Band 11 Pro. South African dates and pricing will be confirmed closer to retail rollout.

HUAWEI MatePad Mini: Compact OLED Tablet

Huawei’s first true mini-format MatePad packs flagship-grade specs into a pocketable tablet.

Key Specs

• Display: 8.8-inch 2.5K OLED, 120 Hz refresh rate — crisp visuals and fluid UI.
• Processor: Kirin-series chipset tuned for smooth performance.
• Memory & Storage: 8-12 GB RAM with 256 GB onboard flash.
• Cameras: 50 MP main + 8 MP ultra-wide; 32 MP front for video calls.
• Battery: 6400 mAh with 66 W charging.
• Connectivity: Wi-Fi 7 + Bluetooth 5.2.

Local Launch: Huawei confirmed a South African launch window of July–August 2025, making this one of the first devices to land locally — a compelling iPad-Mini alternative for creative and mobile productivity users.

Huawei’s strategy for 2026 blends performance, battery life, premium industrial design, and AI-driven capabilities — tailored for consumers seeking powerful connected devices across lifestyles.

The post Huawei Unveils Major New Devices in Madrid -Global & South African Rollouts Coming in 2026 appeared first on Tech Scene ZA.

I attended the official launch of the HONOR X9D this week, and while it doesn’t chase flagship headlines, it might be one of the most deliberately engineered smartphones HONOR has launched in this segment.

Held in Sandton Jobhannesburg, the event focused less on flashy gimmicks and more on real-world durability, battery endurance, and long-term reliability, three areas HONOR clearly believes matter most to everyday users right now.

From the presentations to the hands-on experience, the message was consistent: the HONOR X9D is built to last longer, survive more, and stress you less.

Durability Was the Star of the Show

One of the biggest talking points at the event was durability, and HONOR leaned into this hard.

The X9D features what HONOR calls Ultra-Bounce Anti-Drop Technology, and during the demos, the brand confidently highlighted drop resistance of up to 2 metres. The phone also carries SGS Triple Resistant certification, covering drop resistance, water resistance, and overall structural durability.

HONOR confirmed the X9D comes with an IP65 rating, meaning it’s protected against dust and water jets — not something you usually see emphasized this strongly in the mid-range category.

In hand, the phone feels solid without being bulky. Despite its toughness-first design, it still manages to look clean and modern, with a slim profile and curved edges that stop it from feeling like a rugged phone pretending to be stylish.

A Battery Built for People Who Hate Charging

Battery life was another major focus during the launch, and for good reason.

The HONOR X9D packs a massive 6 600 mAh battery, and HONOR repeatedly positioned this as a phone designed for multi-day use, not just “all-day” use. Based on the figures shared at the event, this device is clearly aimed at users who want to go as long as possible without reaching for a charger.

When you do need to plug in, the phone supports 66 W HONOR SuperCharge, which should make topping up far less painful than the battery size might suggest.

For students, commuters, field workers, or anyone who simply doesn’t want battery anxiety — this could easily be one of the X9D’s biggest selling points.

Display, Performance & Everyday Use

Up front, the X9D features a large 6.78-inch AMOLED display with a 120 Hz refresh rate, delivering smooth scrolling and vibrant colours. HONOR also highlighted the panel’s high peak brightness, which should make it easier to use outdoors — something I’m keen to test properly in real-world conditions.

Performance is handled by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 chipset, paired with up to 12 GB of RAM and 256 GB of storage, depending on configuration. This isn’t a gaming-first powerhouse, but it’s clearly tuned for reliable daily performance, social media, video streaming, multitasking, and light gaming without drama.

The phone runs MagicOS (based on Android), with HONOR continuing to build out its AI-assisted features aimed at usability rather than novelty.

Cameras That Focus on Practical Results

Camera performance wasn’t positioned as the headline feature, but the X9D still brings a capable setup to the table.

The main camera is a 108 MP sensor, designed to deliver detailed shots in good lighting, with AI enhancements to help in tougher scenarios. HONOR also demonstrated its built-in photo tools — including AI-powered editing features — which aim to reduce the need for third-party apps.

Around the front, there’s a 16 MP selfie camera, housed neatly in the display, keeping the overall look clean and modern.

This is clearly a camera system designed for reliable everyday shots, rather than competing with flagship photography monsters — and HONOR seems comfortable owning that positioning.

Pricing, Availability & First Impressions

At the launch, HONOR confirmed that the HONOR X9D will be available in South Africa from [INSERT DATE], with pricing starting at R9999 depending on configuration.

Walking away from the event, my biggest takeaway is that the X9D feels intentionally practical. It’s not trying to be everything to everyone instead, it focuses on battery life, durability, and a smooth everyday experience.

Once we get it in for full testing, the real story will be how well those promises hold up in daily use. But based on what was shown at the launch and my initial hands-on time, the HONOR X9D looks like a strong option for users who want a phone they don’t have to baby.

A full review is coming soon.

What Else HONOR Has in Store for 2026?

During the official launch of the HONOR X9D, the brand teased an impressive lineup of smart ecosystem products debuting later this year. Leading the charge is the HONOR CHOICE VZ Sport Mate Headphone Pro. These premium headphones are built for endurance, featuring Adaptive Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), Hi-Res audio, and a massive 80-hour battery life.

For travelers, the HONOR CHOICE MiLI LiTag is a game-changer. This Google-certified Bluetooth item tracker is designed specifically for Android users to locate lost or stolen belongings, making it an essential piece of travel safety tech for 2026.

HONOR is also expanding into home security with the HONOR CHOICE Pet Companion Robot. This compact, robust monitoring robot allows you to surveil your home, check in on your pets, and even speak to them remotely while you’re away.

Finally, HONOR is reimagining hardware with two unique “hybrid” audio products. The HONOR CHOICE Mousebuds feature a sleek, stylish mouse that doubles as a charging case for integrated earbuds—perfect for the office. Additionally, the HONOR CHOICE CuBuds are set to launch, offering a fresh, innovative twist on traditional earbud design.

Stay tuned with TechSceneZA to check out the goods HONOR has for us in 2026

The post I Attended the HONOR X9D Launch — Here’s Why This Might Be HONOR’s Most Practical Phone Yet appeared first on Tech Scene ZA.

Last week, I attended vivo South Africa’s launch event for the vivo X300 Series, and it’s safe to say the brand is coming into 2026 swinging. Held in Johannesburg, the event marked the local debut of the vivo X300 and X300 Pro, making them some of the first flagship smartphones to officially launch in South Africa this year.

From the moment you walk into the venue, it’s clear what vivo wants the conversation to be about: imaging, performance, and premium positioning. This wasn’t a mid-range refresh or a quiet spec bump — vivo is very deliberately planting the X300 Series in flagship territory.

Cameras Were the Main Event — And for Good Reason

Unsurprisingly, photography took centre stage during the presentation and hands-on sessions. vivo has continued its close partnership with ZEISS, and both X300 models showcase just how serious the brand is about mobile imaging.

The vivo X300 Pro is the clear headline act here. It features a 50MP Sony LYT-828 main sensor, paired with a 200MP periscope telephoto camera — a setup that immediately signals who this phone is for. During the demo zones, the long-range zoom performance was especially impressive, with sharp detail retention even at extreme focal lengths.

vivo also showed off its optional telephoto lens kit for the X300 Pro, which honestly drew a lot of attention on the floor. The kit adds physical controls like a shutter button and zoom lever, along with an internal battery — turning the phone into something that feels far closer to a compact camera. It’s a niche accessory, but for creators and photography enthusiasts, it makes a strong statement about vivo’s ambitions.

The standard vivo X300 still holds its own, featuring a 200MP main camera, supported by 50MP ultra-wide and telephoto sensors, making it far from a “watered-down” option.

Flagship Power, Inside and Out

Under the hood, the X300 Series is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 9500, MediaTek’s current flagship chipset. vivo was keen to emphasise not just raw performance, but efficiency and sustained performance — especially important given the large batteries on both devices.

Both phones run Android 16 with OriginOS 6, and in day-to-day use during the event, the software felt fast, polished, and packed with AI-driven features aimed at productivity, photography, and smoother multitasking.

Displays, Design & Battery Life

Design-wise, vivo has leaned into a premium but understated look. The X300 Pro’s 6.78-inch LTPO AMOLED display is big, bright, and smooth thanks to its 120Hz refresh rate, while the regular X300 offers a more compact 6.31-inch LTPO AMOLED panel — something smaller-phone fans will appreciate.

Battery life is another area where vivo is clearly pushing boundaries. The X300 packs a 6 040mAh battery, while the Pro steps up to 6 510mAh, both supporting 90W wired and 40W wireless charging. Even on paper, those numbers suggest these phones are built for long days — whether that’s shooting content, gaming, or heavy multitasking.

Pricing, Availability & Final Thoughts from the Event

At the event, vivo confirmed that the X300 Series will be available in South Africa immedioutly for preorder with devices being shipped form the 9th from February 2026. Pricing starts at around R32 000 for the vivo X300, while the X300 Pro comes in at roughly R40 000, with the telephoto lens kit available separately or bundled as part of limited launch deals from Vodacom online. The Devices also come with a 365-day warranty for full repair and a 2+1 year warranty

Walking away from the launch, the biggest takeaway is this: vivo isn’t playing it safe anymore. The X300 Series feels like a confident push into true flagship territory, especially with its focus on camera hardware that goes beyond typical smartphone norms.

A full review will ultimately tell the complete story, but based on what was shown — and what I experienced hands-on — the vivo X300 Series is shaping up to be one of the most interesting smartphone launches South Africa has seen at the start of 2026.

The post I Attended the vivo X300 Launch — Here’s What Stood Out appeared first on Tech Scene ZA.

2025 has been an exciting year for technology. From powerful gaming machines to innovative cameras and smart devices, brands have pushed performance, portability, and creativity further than ever. Here’s my personal list of the top tech of 2025, covering the best laptops, smartphones, cameras, and gaming devices you should know about.

Best Gaming Laptop of 2025: MSI Cyborg

The MSI Cyborg is an excellent gaming laptop for 2025, especially for gamers who want strong performance without an extreme price tag. It delivers solid gaming power, a sleek futuristic design, and dependable cooling for long sessions. Whether you’re playing competitive esports titles or modern AAA games, the Cyborg handles it smoothly while still being portable enough for daily use.

Favorite Camera of 2025: Instax Mini 41

The Instax Mini 41 proves that instant cameras are still fun and relevant in 2025. It’s easy to use, stylish, and perfect for capturing memories you can physically hold. With improved exposure and reliable print quality, it’s a great pick for casual photography and social moments.

Favorite Peripheral of 2025: Endorfy Thock TKL

The Endorfy Thock TKL is a fantastic tenkeyless mechanical keyboard that balances performance and desk space. It’s ideal for gaming and productivity, offering satisfying key switches, solid build quality, and a compact layout that fits perfectly into any setup.

Most Innovative Device of 2025: Acer AI TV Box

The Acer AI TV Box stands out as one of the most innovative devices this year. With AI-powered features that enhance streaming, recommendations, and smart home integration, it transforms a standard TV into a smarter, more personalized entertainment hub.

Best Productivity Laptop of 2025: MSI Modern 14

For work, school, and everyday productivity, the MSI Modern 14 shines. It’s lightweight, efficient, and powerful enough for multitasking, content creation, and office work. Its clean design and long battery life make it a reliable daily driver.

Best Portable Laptop of 2025: ASUS Zenbook A14

The ASUS Zenbook A14 is the definition of portability. Thin, light, and premium, it’s perfect for students and travelers who need power on the go. Despite its compact size, it still delivers strong performance and an excellent display.

Best Gaming Handheld of 2025: Nintendo Switch 2

The Nintendo Switch 2 takes handheld gaming to the next level. With upgraded hardware, better performance, and support for both handheld and docked play, it continues Nintendo’s winning formula while bringing modern improvements gamers have been waiting for.

Most Improved Handheld of 2025: ASUS ROG XBOX Ally X

The ASUS ROG XBOX Ally X shows massive improvement over previous handheld gaming PCs. Better ergonomics, improved performance, and deeper Xbox integration make it a much more polished and enjoyable device for serious handheld gamers.

Best Budget Smartphone of 2025: Honor 400 Lite

The Honor 400 Lite is proof that you don’t need to spend a lot to get a great smartphone. It offers solid performance, a good display, and dependable cameras, making it one of the best budget-friendly phones available in 2025.

Best Midrange Smartphone of 2025: Honor 400 Pro

Stepping up, the Honor 400 Pro delivers flagship-like features at a midrange price. With a strong processor, high-quality display, and versatile camera system, it’s one of the best value smartphones of the year.

Best Smartphone Camera of 2025: Huawei Pura 80 Pro

When it comes to mobile photography, the Huawei Pura 80 Pro leads the pack. Its advanced camera hardware and image processing deliver stunning photos in both daylight and low-light conditions, making it the top choice for camera-focused users.

Most Innovative Camera of 2025: Insta360 Go Ultra

The Insta360 Go Ultra is one of the most creative cameras released this year. Ultra-compact and incredibly versatile, it’s perfect for action shots, vlogging, and creative angles that traditional cameras simply can’t capture.

Final Thoughts

2025 has delivered an amazing lineup of tech across every category. Whether you’re a gamer, student, content creator, or casual user, there’s something on this list that stands out. Innovation, performance, and value are stronger than ever, and it’s exciting to see where technology goes next.

The post Top Tech of 2025 appeared first on Tech Scene ZA.

The rAge Expo remains one of South Africa’s most recognised gaming and tech events. TechSceneZA has attended rAge multiple times over the years, and this year marked our fourth in-person rAge event and sixth virtual engagement. With rAge’s move from the Gallagher Convention Centre, then the Johannesburg Expo Centre, and now to Fourways Mall, expectations were mixed and comparisons to Comic Con Africa were inevitable.

The Fourways Mall location raised questions. Some arguments for the move made sense, while others did not. Preshaan from TechSceneZA had early access to meet with the organisers of rAge and Fourways Mall management, where concerns were addressed and discussions took place in the buildup to the event.

First Impressions and Venue Transformation

In honesty, rAge 2025 was not the strongest showing in the event’s history. Without sugar coating it, the event felt subpar compared to previous years, though this was expected when experimenting with a format that had never been attempted before.

To understand the scale of the challenge, rAge was hosted on the 8th level of Fourways Mall, a concrete parking structure with metal roof sheeting. However, once attendees entered the event, the environment felt surprisingly different. With the buildup of the event, once walking through the entrance way, you wouldn’t believe you were in a parking lot. The organisers deserve credit for the transformation of the space. Organizers did a brilliant job carpeting the floor, building stands to break away from the parking lot, and casting the illusion of the rage exhibition event. While some creators voiced concerns about the direction of rAge and its setup, being on the floor told another story. Being there physically, you escaped the parking lot and were really at an expo.

Logistical Issues and Shortcomings

Despite the visual success, several logistical issues affected the overall experience. Friday, in particular, highlighted problems with temperature control, as the venue became extremely hot. While air conditioning units were present, they were insufficient, and additional cooling that had been promised did not fully materialise.

“There were some promises made prior to the event by the venue that the vents were going to be opened to introduce a flow of air.”

Transport arrangements were another area where expectations were not met.

“There were also promises for a pickup and drop-off area with Uber being in mind, which was not done.”

Parking also proved to be a point of frustration, though it should be noted that Fourways Mall does offer several levels of parking that visitors could have used and not everyone had to park at level 7.

One of the biggest criticisms surrounded bathroom access.

“There were no toilets at the event level, which meant people would have to go down 2- 3 levels to use the bathroom, which raised concerns of people leaving the event and not retunring”. This brought up criticism that rage isn’t what it used to be, and it’s a let-down as well as a waste of time.”

Understanding rAge’s Role as an Organiser

When assessing the success or failure of rAge, it’s important to separate the role of the organiser from that of exhibitors and brands. rAge provides the platform, but brand participation ultimately drives engagement, giveaways, and interactive experiences.

Preshaan summed it up with a simple analogy

“It’s like taking the horse to the river, but you can’t make it drink.”

This means that if brands choose not to attend or fail to activate meaningfully, the event naturally feels less impactful. However, venue selection and logistical shortcomings, such as ablution access, remain valid criticisms directed at rAge itself and the venue.

Brand Presence and Exhibitor Confidence

Looking at the brands that did attend rAge 2025, TechSceneZA applauds those that showed up and invested in the event despite the uncertainty surrounding the new venue. With exhibitor costs reportedly similar to previous venues such as Gallagher Convention Centre and Nasrec, their participation reflects a continued level of faith in rAge as a brand and as South Africa’s premier gaming and tech expo.

That said, conversations with exhibitors revealed growing concern around return on investment. While brands remain committed to rAge, many acknowledged that there is still significant work to be done to ensure that exhibitor value matches the cost of participation.

This concern was evident on the show floor. Products and merchandise that would typically sell out by Friday at past rAge events were still available by Sunday, in many cases at discounted prices. This shift suggests lower foot traffic engagement and purchasing behaviour compared to previous years, reinforcing the need for stronger attendee activation and brand-driven experiences moving forward.

Supporting Local Events Over International Hype

Preshaan shared insights from his interview with Len from NAG, which highlighted a broader issue within South Africa’s event culture.

“I did an interview with Len from NAG while talking about the retro LAN and I made mention to the fact that you know the NAG has been keeping LAN gaming or LANs alive through the NAG LAN at rage and I made a comment to along the lines the fact that Linus Tech Tips is hosting things like WHALE LAN and has so much of buy in and Len made a counter comment that said we are very fast to buy into international culture we compare ourselves and buy in to these international fame things like comic con and everyone wants to run to comic con but we fail to support these local initiatives like rAge & the NAG LAN, we all are buying into big name events like comic con .I even saw online someone made a comment of um you know what maybe rAge and comic con should join forces and stop hosting this or maybe rAge should just give up.”

Preshaan strongly rejected that idea and praised the vision behind the Fourways Mall experiment.

“I don’t think is the case and I applaud Michael and the team and many others even in the build up to rAge fail to have the creative eye or the visionary eye to see what could be done with this parking lot and I must say there is some learning to be done from this weekend like some promises that Michael had made that fourways mall has committed to making ablution facilities available on the top level and adding solar panels to the roof which would reduce the amount of heat that is actually in there and also adding an extractor fans but many people had or many people didn’t have that creative eye to see what could be done with this venue and I think I applaud rAge and the organisers and those that believed in it, it was actually a resounding success that they converted this parking lot into an exhibition space.”

Final Verdict: A Learning Curve, Not a Failure

Despite its flaws, rAge 2025 represented an important first step rather than a final product.

“All in all, I applaud Michael and the team at rAge for what they’ve done. They’ve built something and it’s the first step into many different things there were issues but they were being dealt with on the way and It’s the first time and it’s the first time that fourways mall has even hosted something like this so everyone has learnt from it and I hope that they grow to bigger and better.” but dont get me wrong there is blame to be placed especially on the venue and whether or not it was intentional or not remains to be questioned

Preshaan made it clear that his continued support for rAge is not about giveaways or freebies, but about what the event represents.

“I will still be there next year because of how much or what rAge stands for me as a person and for us a creator, and it’s not just about the free stuff or all the other bits in between.”

Support was also extended to NAG and its future plans. “I wish NAG as well everything of the very best. From what we’ve spoken to Len, they have plans to grow the LAN side of things as well.”

Looking Ahead to rAge 2026

rAge 2025 was not perfect, but it was ambitious. It challenged expectations and forced organisers, exhibitors, and attendees alike to rethink what a local gaming expo can be.

“We hope next year will be bigger and better with more exhibitors better tech, and you know, irrespective TechSceneZA will be there.”

The post rAge 2025 Review: A Bold Experiment at Fourways Mall | Sink or Swim appeared first on Tech Scene ZA.

Durban’s retail landscape just received a major shake-up. Edgars — once one of South Africa’s most troubled retail names — has completed a bold relaunch of its Gateway Theatre of Shopping store under the leadership of Retailability, the Durban-based group that acquired the brand in 2020.

The relaunch signals more than a facelift. It marks Edgars’ renewed commitment to modern retail, tighter store identities, and fresh product categories designed to bring customers back into physical spaces.

A New Ground Floor: Beauty Meets Tech

One of the most notable changes is the complete redesign of the store’s ground floor. Previously a mixed-category layout, the space is now intentionally curated around cosmetics and technology — two high-demand segments that consistently draw foot traffic.

The tech section is spread across the back section of the store, but its brand lineup is surprisingly strong with dedicated stands for :

• Oppo & Vivo
• Honor Lounge
• Huawei
• Samsung
• DJI , Nintendo, Pre-loved Apple devices (through the core group)

The store also features a dedicated section to Edgars Connect, the electronics arm, where you can see devices from :

• Xiaomi
• PlayStation 5
• Tecno smartphones
• Volkano gear
• JBL devices
• Specno Smartphones
• Laptops and so much more

It’s an unexpected but refreshing mix, blending mainstream smartphone brands with gaming, vlogging and creator gear — all in a store better known for fashion.

A Small Tech Section, But an Important Step for Durban

While the tech area isn’t large, the decision to include it is strategic and necessary. Durban has long suffered from a limited footprint of multi-brand tech retail spaces outside of carrier stores and stand-alone brand boutiques.

For many Durban shoppers, variety and accessibility are still major gaps in the city’s tech ecosystem. Edgars stepping into this space — even at a small scale — introduces competition, convenience, and a wider product choice for mainstream shoppers who may not visit specialist stores.

It’s a sign that Retailability recognises tech as a high-interest category that can help revitalise foot traffic and diversify Edgars’ identity moving forward.

A Star-Studded Relaunch With Honor’s CEO and DJ Tira

The relaunch event wasn’t just a ribbon-cutting. It brought notable energy to Gateway, thanks to the presence of Honor South Africa’s CEO, who joined the celebration alongside Durban’s own superstar DJ Tira.

Their appearance underscored the significance of Edgars’ renewed commitment to tech and highlighted Honor’s growing presence in South Africa’s mobile market. The collaboration also signals that major tech brands are eager to invest again in local retail spaces — a positive sign for Durban’s tech community.

A New Direction… But Who Is It Really For?

While the relaunch is undeniably impressive and the store feels fresh and modern, it also raises an important question: who exactly is Edgars trying to be now?

Under Retailability, Edgars seems to be experimenting with a hybrid identity — blending cosmetics, clothing, and now an increasingly wide mix of tech products, from smartphones and laptops to gaming consoles and drones. It’s a bold move, but also a confusing one.

Cosmetics and fashion have always made sense together. They share a customer base, a lifestyle connection, and a long retail history. But cosmetics mixed with mid-range tech — especially laptops, PS5s, drones, speakers, and creator gear — feels like Edgars is trying to be a more “upmarket ”, a one-stop-shop that captures every brand collaboration they can secure.

And that’s the challenge:
If a customer wants affordable tech, they go to PEP, Ackermans, or online.
If they want premium tech, they go directly to the brand stores or specialist retailers.
If they want fashion and beauty, Edgars has always existed — but adding tech doesn’t give them a competitive lead. It simply places them on the same playing field as everyone else, without a differentiator.

Even the placement of the tech section — tucked at the back behind cosmetics and fragrances — makes it feel less like a strategic pillar and more like an experiment the brand is still figuring out.

Durban needs more tech retail options, and Edgars stepping into that gap is valuable. But whether this new mix of perfume, clothing, and multi-brand tech will resonate with customers — or whether it muddies Edgars’ identity further — remains to be seen. The relaunch is a step forward, but the real test will be whether this hybrid concept can find a clear demographic and define who the “new Edgars” is meant to serve.

The post Edgars Reimagines Its Gateway Store: A Fresh Identity for Fashion, Beauty & Tech in Durban appeared first on Tech Scene ZA.

The Dell Technologies Forum Johannesburg 2025 took place on 6 November 2025 at the Kyalami International Convention Centre, bringing together around 2,500 attendees—from customers and partners to tech vendors and industry leaders.

The event opened with a vibrant South African dance performance and was hosted by beloved SABC 2 presenter Leanne Manas, creating an energetic start to a day focused on the future of technology.

A Focus on AI, Innovation & Modern IT

This year’s forum explored how organisations can accelerate digital transformation using cutting-edge solutions from Dell Technologies. Key topics included:

• Artificial Intelligence (AI)
• Modern Data Centers & Multicloud strategies
• Modern Workplace & AI-powered PCs
• Sustainable IT practices

Attendees experienced hands-on demos and heard from top experts, including Habib Mahakian, Dell Technologies’ Vice President for Southern & Sub-Saharan Africa, who shared insights on the region’s evolving digital landscape.

The post Highlights from the Dell Technologies Forum Johannesburg 2025 appeared first on Tech Scene ZA.

Microsoft is shaking things up: its Xbox Game Pass subscription is being restructured into three tiers — Essential, Premium, and Ultimate — with changes to benefits, libraries, and yes, pricing. If you’re an Xbox or PC gamer (or cloud gamer), this is worth paying attention to — especially if you live in South Africa, where local pricing is set for a steep hike.

What’s Changing & Why

The new three‑plan model replaces existing tiers.

• Game Pass Core becomes Essential
• Standard becomes Premium
• Ultimate remains Ultimate — but with more features (and a higher cost)

Microsoft’s goal is to give users more flexibility depending on how and where they play (console, PC, or via the cloud).

A major shift: cloud gaming is now included in all tiers — you no longer need the top-tier subscription just to stream games across devices.

Xbox is also leaning heavily into added value for Premium and Ultimate tiers: Fortnite Crew, Ubisoft+ Classics, upgraded Rewards points, and more day-one titles — especially for Ultimate subscribers.

New Features by Tier (and What You Actually Get)

The South African Price Hike — What You Need to Know

• Essential (formerly Core) jumps from R79 to R139/month — a 76% increase.
• Premium (formerly Standard) rises from R149 to R199/month — up 34%.
• PC-only plan more than doubles from R119 to R249/month — a 109% increase.
• Ultimate climbs steeply from R199 to R349/month — a 75% hike.

Cloud gaming is now accessible across all tiers — so you technically get more for your money — but whether that extra value makes up for the cost increase will depend on how you play.

Because all plans now include streaming, some users may consider downgrading if they don’t need the Ultimate perks. However, doing so means losing day-one titles, Fortnite Crew, and a bigger rewards system.

Microsoft says it will “regularly evaluate exchange rates and market conditions,” so future adjustments — up or down — remain on the table.

Microsoft is repositioning Game Pass to better fit a wide spectrum of gamers — from casuals who want quick access to a curated library, to hardcore players chasing exclusive perks, cloud convenience, and day-one titles.

But with major price hikes, particularly in South Africa, many will now have to reassess their subscriptions:

• Are you using enough features to justify the price?
• Do you need day-one access or just want a stable library?
• Is the rewards program enough to offset the monthly costs?

As always, it’s worth reviewing your usage before you renew or upgrade. The value is there — but only if you’re actually tapping into it.

The post Xbox Game Pass Is Getting a Revamp!  Here’s What You Need to Know appeared first on Tech Scene ZA.

For years, international content creators have transformed everyday vehicles into jaw-dropping mobile gaming setups. Think high-performance rigs, LED lights, and sleek branding, all on wheels. We at TechSceneZA have always planned on doing the same, but with a unique South African twist. This year, TechSceneZA finally had the perfect excuse to bring this vision to life at Rage Expo, South Africa’s biggest gaming and tech convention.

Durban to Joburg: A Boring Drive, An Epic Build

The drive from Durban to Johannesburg is long. Six hours long. And if you’ve done it, you know how monotonous it can be. So we at TechSceneZA thought: Why not make the journey part of the experience? Why not build a gaming vehicle, specifically, a uniquely South African Toyota Hilux bakkie rigged out for mobile gaming?

Why a Hilux Bakkie?

Well, if you’re South African, you know the answer: the Hilux bakkie is practically a national icon. It’s rugged, reliable, and part of our culture. So, if we were going to build the ultimate local gaming ride, it had to be done in a Hilux, no question.

Building the Gaming Bakkie: Step by Step

1. Interior Setup

We started by designing a functional and cozy space in the back of the Hilux.

• Wall Mount: We installed a full wall panel to mount our gaming monitor and gear.
• Monitor: A high-end Asus ROG Strix XG27AQ, a 27” LED QHD display with 170Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time. Perfect for smooth, immersive gameplay.
• Gaming Rig: The heart of the system is the ASUS ROG Zephyrus G16 laptop, packing:
  • Intel Core i9-185H processor
  • NVIDIA RTX 4090 GPU
  • 32GB RAM
  • 2.5K OLED display

This beast of a machine is connected to the larger monitor for maximum visual punch.

2. Gear Mounting & Accessories

• Pegboard System: Perfect for organizing controllers, headsets, and accessories.
• LED Lighting: Because let’s face it, no gaming setup is complete without RGB lighting.
• Gaming Peripherals: Headphones, keyboard, and a mouse neatly mounted for convenience.
• Handheld Backup: We added the Asus ROG Ally X for handheld gaming on the move.

3. Comfort Comes First

• Carpeted Flooring: To give it a warm, inviting vibe.
• Bean Bag: For laid-back gaming sessions.
• Fridge Spot: We even left space for a mini fridge—though it didn’t arrive in time.

The Tech Powering the Rig

All electronics are powered by a Gazu 512W portable power station, capable of handling:

• The gaming laptop
• External monitor
• LED lights
• Additional accessories

This makes the Gaming Bakkie fully off-grid and mobile—ideal for on-the-go gaming, even at roadside stops.

Branding the Beast

We didn’t just build it, we branded it.

• Custom decals
• Neon Blitz signage
• Photo-ready from every angle

If you spotted the rig at Rage Expo, you’ll know how much attention it drew. This was more than a build, it was a statement.

Rage Expo: The Big Reveal

We drove the Gaming Bakkie all the way from Durban to showcase it at Rage Expo in Johannesburg. It was a full-circle moment—bringing together gaming, creativity, tech, and the local community.

Special Thanks To:

• Rage Expo – For giving us a platform to showcase the Gaming Bakkie.
• ASUS Republic of Gamers – For sponsoring high-end gear.
• Neon Blitz Signs – For their stunning branding work.
• Team Tex – For helping pull off the build and making the long drive.

This project has been a dream come true. From concept to execution, the Gaming Bakkie represents what’s possible when you mix creativity, tech, and a bit of South African flair. Whether you’re a gamer, tech enthusiast, or just someone who appreciates wild builds, you’ll want to stay tuned for what’s next.

The post Building South Africa’s First Gaming Bakkie for Rage Expo appeared first on Tech Scene ZA.

If you game, stream, or create content, you may already know LORGAR™. The brand has been available in South Africa, but 2025 marks the moment it truly steps into the spotlight.

And trust us, this isn’t just another gaming brand. It’s a complete ecosystem of gaming peripherals, software, and lifestyle gear designed to take your setup from good to god-tier — with everything from gaming keyboards and gaming mouse options, to gaming headsets, gaming monitors, and even sim racing gear.

Now, LORGAR™ is taking things to the next level. You’ll be able to experience it live at Comic Con Africa 2025, in partnership with Checkers.

Who is LORGAR™?

LORGAR™ is an international gaming brand built for gamers, creators, and streamers who demand more than the basics. We’re talking:

• Precision Keyboards & Mice: responsive switches, ultra-low latency, and pro-level accuracy — ideal for competitive play.
• Immersive Headsets: tuned for crystal-clear comms and cinematic soundscapes, giving you the edge in team games and solo missions alike.
• Streaming Gear: tools designed to help you hit “go live” like a pro, from day one.
• Controllers & Accessories: everything you need to make playtime seamless.
• Gaming Monitors: coming soon to South Africa – the display tech to complete your setup.
• Sim Racing Equipment: push your driving simulation experience to the next level with high-performance, immersive gear.

But here’s the real game-changer: the LORGAR PLATFORM.

The LORGAR PLATFORM: Your Command Center

Every piece of LORGAR™ hardware connects into the LORGAR PLATFORM (download it here).

Think of it as your control room:

• Sync and customize all your devices in one place
• Fine-tune lighting, macros, and sensitivity
• Track in-game analytics and performance stats
• Optimize your rig for every session

This isn’t just software — it’s the brain of your setup. With LORGAR™, you’re not just buying individual products. You’re entering a smarter, integrated ecosystem built around how gamers actually play.

Solutions That Fit Every Playstyle

LORGAR™ goes beyond products to offer full-scale Solutions that elevate your entire gaming experience. These aren’t just bundles — they’re thoughtfully curated, performance-optimized setups designed for your lifestyle:

• Streaming Solution – For creators and streamers who want to look and sound pro from the start.
• PC Gaming Solution – The full setup: keyboard, mouse, headset, and more – all built for competitive and casual gamers.
• Sim Racing Solution – Designed for ultimate realism and immersion, whether you’re clocking laps or chasing podiums.

Each of these Solutions is built around the LORGAR PLATFORM, making it easier than ever to level up with a single, cohesive brand.

Why You Should Be Hyped

• Immersive activations: Get hands-on with LORGAR™ gear in real-world gaming scenarios.
• Lifestyle-first design: Premium ergonomics and sleek builds that feel as good as they look.
• Built for everyone: From casuals to esports grinders, from streamers to storytellers.

LORGAR at rAge Expo

The TechsceneZA team got a sneak peek of LORGAR’s incredible lineup at rAge Expo last year, and we were blown away by their setups. Every product felt built with precision and purpose, offering premium ergonomics, durability, and features that cater to both competitive and casual gamers. With LORGAR officially launching in South Africa, you’ll soon find their best gaming accessories — including gaming keyboards, gaming mouse models, and gaming headsets — at local retailers and events.

LORGAR™ x Checkers at Comic Con Africa 2025

This August, the Johannesburg Expo Centre (Nasrec) transforms into the ultimate geek and gaming hub, and LORGAR™ will be right at the heart of it.

In partnership with Checkers, our brand zone will give fans a chance to:

• Test drive the full LORGAR™ lineup, from streaming setups to sim racing rigs
• Experience our “face awakening” activations
• Buy LORGAR™ products directly at the stand

This collaboration with Checkers is about more than just Comic Con. It’s about putting premium gaming gear within reach — whether you’re shopping in-store, online, or getting your groceries delivered.

Be Part of the Story

LORGAR™ is awakening.

At Comic Con Africa, we’re bringing our slogan to life: READY TO PLAY. So if you’re attending, make sure you swing by the LORGAR™ x Checkers booth. Bring your friends, test the gear, shoot content, and see why this brand is about to change the way South Africans play.

Until then, you can:

• Explore the full catalog at lorgar.com
• Download the LORGAR PLATFORM
• Follow us for drops & updates: Instagram | YouTube | TikTok | LinkedIn | Facebook

South Africa, the wait is over.
The face has awakened.
LORGAR™ is here.
And we are READY TO PLAY.

The post Best New Gaming Accessories in South Africa? Meet LORGAR appeared first on Tech Scene ZA.