BYD appliance test, digital well-being, phones under 2k
Tech Things #45
There are numerous articles about the impact social media has on our mental health and well-being, so it’s refreshing to see a social media giant like TikTok include South Africa as part of its $2.3m global mental health fund. At its first digital well-being summit in Johannesburg, TikTok shared more about its localised support through partnerships with SADAG and Childline SA, in-app features and new ambassadors who are doctor-creators on the platform.
As a creator who recently had two videos go viral, I truly appreciated its Creator Care feature that I had turned on, which filtered a bunch of nasty comments. I hope it makes people think twice before commenting. If you’re curious about the extent of support and features like guided meditation, read here and full list of new features here.
📞 Talk of the Town: New Phones and Trends
Most major smartphone launches focus on high-end phones with AI but it only appeals to a niche percentage; not the mass market. With that in mind, I made a list of (smart)phones you can buy for R2000 or less, including the Spectra Mobile J1 Pro at R1 999, down to MTN’s R99 phone, with more about how it works.
That said, Honor recently launched its new 400 Pro and 400 with AI, so if you’re a fan, check out its features and launch offers. And next week, we’re tuning into Samsung’s second unveiling for the year, an update to its Z Foldables.
🔋 Watt’s New in the EV space?
I’ve been testing EVs for years now and it’s the first time I’ve received a car that offers a vehicle-to-load (V2L) feature which lets you power your home. The BYD Seal comes with an extension cable so you can connect appliances to it. What do you know, I put it to the test! I used a Nutribullet, hair dryer, coffee machine, kettle and toaster. This awesome video is powered by Naked.
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I also recently spent a week with the Mini Aceman SE and took it on a weekend away. It has a starting price of R802 000, just like the Mini Cooper SE, but offers more car for your money. I share all the practical aspects of it in my article:
🕹️ Gadget Goals: Gear to Geek Out
The new Nintendo Switch 2 was launched recently and resident gamer MJ Khan attended the launch, plus has now reviewed the console. If you’ve been waiting for a South African review, be sure to take a read at this in-depth Nintendo Switch 2 review that touches on everything you want to know.
📲 App-solutely Essential
If you find yourself attending live events at a stadium, listen up. Uber Eats has piloted a new offering Uber Eats Live where you order food from your seat and it gets delivered straight to you, without getting up! It includes a curated menu from the on-site vendors at the venue. After its successful trial, Uber plans to roll it out to music festivals, sports matches, markets and pop-ups.
Reads you may want to catch up on:
Till next time,
Nafisa