Tech & Gear

Subterms

    More stories

    • 188 Shares

      in fitness and body

      Cyclists, This New Device By Garmin Will Have You On The Edge Of Your Seat

      by

      With the Tour de France in full swing and the Tour de France Femme just around the corner, Garmin’s latest release couldn’t have come at a better time. Meet the Edge® 1050 – the brightest, smartest and most connected cycling computer Garmin has ever unleashed. Featuring in-ride messaging, competitions, hazard alerts and more, it’s designed to make every group ride fun and connected. You’ll always feel like part of the peloton.

      [embedded content]

      “We are excited to introduce our most capable, high-performing bike computer yet with the Edge 1050. Delivering an exceptional in-ride experience, superior navigation and community-focused features, our latest cycling computer is made to keep cyclists motivated—whether they’re planning a group ride with friends or a long, solo adventure.”
      Dan Bartel, Garmin Vice President of Global Consumer Sales

      Prepare For Your Next Big Ride

      The Edge 1050 is loaded with advanced tools to help you dominate every ride. Free Garmin training plans deliver personalised workouts based on performance and recovery. Insights from Firstbeat Analytics™ like VO2 max, training status, heat and altitude acclimation and more can help cyclists evaluate their performance and see how their body is holding up, while features like cycling ability and course demands allow cyclists to compare their abilities to the demands of a specific course so they can focus their training in the right areas. 

      READ MORE: 32 Hours Of Ride Time! Where Will Your Garmin Edge Solar Take You?

      Maximise Performance

      Edge 1050 offers premium performance metrics to help you ride smarter. Real-time stamina insights help cyclists closely monitor and track their exertion levels, influencing training efforts and showing how much further they can maintain their current pace. ClimbPro shows ascent and grade details, and Climb Explore highlights nearby climbs. Advanced cycling dynamics provide riders with insights into their performance and mountain bike metrics, including jump count, jump distance, Grit® and Flow™, which help track every epic ride.

      Ride Safe, Stay Connected

      For added confidence during a ride, Edge 1050 includes safety features like LiveTrack and incident detection, and it’s compatible with the Varia™ line of cycling radars and smart lights, as well as inReach® satellite communicators. For year-round training, it easily pairs with Tacx® indoor smart trainers.

      Garmin Edge 1050

      From Saturday group rides to solo adventures, make every ride better with the Edge 1050 premium cycling computer.

      What Else Is New?

      GroupRide Enhancements: Stay in touch with in-ride messaging, live locations and incident detection alerts. Cyclists can also add some competition to their ride with in-ride leaderboards for climbs, plus witty post-ride awards, including Speed Racer (highest max speed), Chatterbox (most heavily using the GroupRide messaging feature), Worker Bee (most time spent pedalling) and more.

      Road Hazard Alerts: Get real-time alerts about potholes, fallen trees and more from your fellow cyclists, and contribute your own reports to keep everyone safe.

      Refreshed Design: Angled casing, all-metal buttons and a 3.5” liquid crystal display.

      Garmin Pay: Make quick, contactless payments during your rides.

      Built-In Speaker: Hear workout and navigation prompts and use the bike bell to alert others.

      On-Device Course Creator: Design routes directly on the touchscreen with various map overlays.

      Surface Type Alerts: Get notified about upcoming unpaved sections and see different roadway types.

      Ride-Specific Routing: Tailored navigation for mountain, gravel, or road rides.

      Map Manager with Wi-Fi®: Add, swap, or update maps easily via Wi-Fi.

      Ready to ride? Find the Edge® 1050 at garmin.com. More

    • 163 Shares

      in fitness and body

      32 Hours Of Ride Time! Where Will Your Garmin Edge Solar Take You?

      by

      You heard it right! Get set for an insane 32 hours of intense ride time or 60 hours in battery-saving mode with the Edge® 540 Solar, 840 Solar and 1040 Solar. Crush your training sessions and snag that QOM faster than ever. The best part? These solar versions keep you rolling longer between charges and offer personalised adaptive coaching, making them the ultimate gear for races or hitting personal milestones.

      Dominate Every Training Session

      These devices adapt to your goals and offer superior navigation, planning and training tools to enhance your performance with every ride.

      Choose Your Controls

      Edge 540 and 540 Solar feature intuitive buttons, while Edge 840 and 840 Solar offer both touchscreen and button controls.

      Ride Longer

      Get up to 26 hours of battery life in intense mode and up to 42 hours in battery saver mode. With Power Glass™ solar charging, the Edge 540 Solar and 840 Solar boost battery life to an impressive 60 hours in battery saver mode or up to 32 hours in intense mode. Gain an extra 25 minutes per hour from solar charging during daytime rides1.

      Tailored Training

      Compare your cycling abilities to specific course demands and focus your training where it counts. Daily suggested workouts and personalised coaching adapt to your training load and recovery, ensuring you’re race-ready2.

      ClimbPro Ascent Planner

      See remaining ascent and grade to manage your effort efficiently. Available on every ride, whether on your Edge device or through the Garmin Connect™ app on your smartphone.

      Power Guide & Stamina Insights

      Get recommended power targets throughout your course and monitor how much longer you can push it.

      READ MORE: Epic Rides From The Comfort Of Home With The New Garmin Smart Bike

      Navigation for Every Terrain

      Enhanced Accuracy: Multi-band GNSS technology provides superior positioning accuracy.

      Tailored Maps: Ride like a local with ride-type-specific maps highlighting popular roads and trails, plus searchable points of interest.

      Streamlined Setup: Access the info, courses and tools you need quickly and easily, and adjust data fields from your Edge device or paired smartphone.

      Seamless Integration: Pair with your favourite apps and platforms, including Strava, Komoot, TrainingPeaks3 and more through the Garmin Connect app.

      Get Ready to Ride Smarter

      So, gear up and introduce the rider you are today to the one you’ll be tomorrow. Embrace the edge and ride on.

      Garmin Edge® 540 Solar

      Garmin Edge® 840 Solar

      Garmin Edge® 1040 Solar

      References:

      **WH Partnership More

    • 138 Shares

      in fitness and body

      5 Hacks To Boost Your Running Performance With Reebok’s FloatZig 1

      by

      Running isn’t just about endurance and speed. It’s about joy, creativity, and sometimes, a little bit of mischief. In celebration of the joy of the run, Reebok launched its Running Hacks global campaign for the new FloatZig 1.

      “The FloatZig 1 running shoes offer industry-leading performance and energy return, suited for even the most elite runners, but built to be accessible and enjoyable for all runners. With both our product and within our irreverent Running Hacks global marketing campaign, we focused on the joy and excitement running can bring to all.”
      Todd Krinsky, Reebok President and CEO

      Reebok dares you to lace up and embrace running like you never have before. Forget those tired old tips your marathon-obsessed uncle swears by. Reebok’s Running Hacks are about tossing the rulebook out the window and making every run an adventure.

      So strap in, lace up, and prepare to turn the ordinary into the extraordinary.

      Running Hack #1: Make it Home Before Load Shedding

      It’s almost like racing against the sunset. Except instead of a romantic sky, you’re dodging sitting in the dark, unable to charge your phone, boil water, or see the end of that episode. Consider this the ultimate interval training—sprint in bursts whenever you think of the food defrosting in your freezer. And hey, if you get home after the lights have gone out, just keep running to your nearest bar. After all, you didn’t run all this way not to get a reward.

      READ MORE: Beginners 5K Running Training Plan And How To Crush It In Just 6 Weeks

      Running Hack #2: Tell Everyone You’re Training for the Comrades

      Short of actually winning it, telling everyone you’re training for this epic ultramarathon is the next best thing. Start casually dropping it into conversations, social media posts and even put it in your LinkedIn bio. The key here is confidence. A lot of it. And if by some miracle you actually find yourself at the starting line, that’s a problem for Future You.

      Running Hack #3: Run Past Your Ex’s House

      Ah, the sweet, sweet revenge run. There’s no fuel quite like a broken heart, and no audience quite like the one that thought they’d seen the last of you. Bonus points if you manage a nonchalant wave to their neighbours, just to prove how utterly unaffected you are by the breakup. This isn’t about them, though (okay, it’s a little about them)—it’s about you, looking and feeling your absolute best, powered by a blend of spite, endorphins, and the sheer joy of moving on.

      Running Hack #4: The FloatZig 1

      Forget about the conventional running hacks you know (and the ones you wish you didn’t).

      The FloatZig 1 is here to revolutionise your run with features designed to push the boundaries of what a running shoe can be.

      Highlights of the FloatZig 1 include:

      Floatride Energy Foam & Zig Tech Technology: Offers a lightweight, responsive energy return, transforming every step into a leap towards your personal best.

      Engineered Mesh Upper with Reflective Overlays: Maximises breathability and ensures visibility, keeping you safe and comfortable, day or night.

      Targeted Foam Panels: Strategically placed for added comfort and a secure fit, enabling you to focus on the joy of the run.

      READ MORE: The Ultimate Accessory To Your Active Lifestyle —Reebok Cool Your Body

      Running Hack #5: If You Look Awesome, You Run Awesome!

      Let’s face it, when you look good, you feel good and when you feel good, you run like a champion! Snag these essentials for your next run:

      Reebok Floatzig 1 Shoes

      Running Quarter-Zip Jacket

      Running Vector Leggings

      ID Train High-Support Bra

      RBK-FRESH Athlete T-Shirt 2.0

      Reebok Running Shorts

      Ready to outrun your shadows, outlast the gossip and outpace the past? The FloatZig 1 is your ticket to discovering the New Shape of Running. Shop the FloatZig 1 on Reebok.co.za.

      **WH Partnership More

    • 175 Shares

      in fitness and body

      Tried & Tested: New Running Shoes From Asics, PUMA & Salomon & Under Armour

      by

      Are you on the hunt for a comfy pair of new running shoes? Or maybe you’re after your very first pair and don’t know where to start? Perhaps you’re overwhelmed with the sheer volume of new takkies dropping seemingly weekly. Wherever you are in your running journey, we’re here to help you.

      There are so many factors to consider when looking for a pair of running shoes. Think: price, cushioning, pronation, heel drop, distances and of course, the look and feel. So we put the newest running shoes to the test, racking up kms to find four that are worth your hard-earned rands. Here’s what we thought about the latest offerings from PUMA, Under Armour, Asics and Salomon. Happy running!

      READ MORE: Beginners 5K Running Training Plan And How To Crush It In Just 6 Weeks

      PUMA Velocity Nitro 3

      Heel drop: 8mm | Cushion: Medium | Pronation: Neutral | Price: R2 599

      Pros

      ✅ Versatile and comfortable 

      ✅ Affordable price

      Cons

      ❌ Those with wider feet might find it a bit snug

      #WHTestsIt

      PUMA may not have been the first brand that came to mind when you went to your local Sportsman’s Warehouse a few years ago, but they sure should be now. They’ve put considerable research and tech into their new fleet of running shoes to bring you launches that will get you where you want to go (and fast)!

      Last year, their ForeverRUN NITRO was one of the pairs I wore the most and I loved it. Now, the Velocity Nitro 3 is overtaking that shoe as one of my favourites. PUMA has taken comfort seriously meaning you don’t have to worry about any niggles or discomfort. You can thank the NITROFOAM™ which makes the shoe well-cushioned yet responsive. 

      If you do a lot of your runs on the treadmill at your local gym or if you’re just starting out and find yourself doing a combination of running and walking these will be your go-to trainer. But they aren’t just for the treadmill, they hold up well as a daily trainer on the road too. The PUMAGrip on the outsole gives you great traction so you can focus on smashing goals rather than whether you’re going to slip.  PUMA has done it again and you’ll definitely be seeing the bright flash of green zoom past you in months to come.

      READ MORE: These Strength And Cross-Training Workouts Will Improve Your Running

      ASICS Gel Nimbus 26

      Heel drop: 8mm | Cushion: Maximum | Pronation: Neutral | Price: R3 799

      Pros

      ✅ Plush and comfortable

      ✅ Improved grip

      Cons

      ❌ Not the best for speedy runners

      #WHTestsIt

      You can’t go wrong with a Gel Nimbus, it’s one of Asics’ best-selling and longest running shoe models. In fact, their Gel Nimbus 25 (released last year) is actually the shoe that made me fall in love with running. It took me from struggling to run a 5km to smashing a 21km in weeks (I couldn’t believe it either!) The Gel Nimbus 26 is everything I loved in the 25 (maximum cushioning and a comfortable upper) with some minor tweaks that make a major difference and ultimately give you a smoother ride.

      The knitted upper has been reengineered so that it’s wider in the forefoot and toe-box. And the eyelets have also changed and give improved lockdown so your foot is secure without being strangled. So overall you have a softer yet more supportive midfoot hold.

      The most impressive improvement is thanks to the addition of ASICSGRIP™ technology and AHARPLUS™ outsole rubber. The outsole uses new hybrid grip technology to give you more traction on wet surfaces (a real winner during winter) and advanced durability.

      The Gel Nimbus 26 also feels a tad firmer than the previous iteration so while it’s become a favourite for my longer, slower runs or even recovery runs, it now will definitely be able to handle those pacier runs, too.

      READ MORE: Long-Distance Trail Running: Here’s Exactly How To Prep And Push Through

      Salomon Genesis

      Heel drop: 8mm | Cushion: Maximum | Pronation: Neutral | Price: R3 599

      Pros

      ✅ Gives you confidence on technical runs

      ✅ Suits newbies and more experienced runners

      Cons

      ❌ Runs quite small so consider sizing up

      #WHTestsIt

      As the temperatures begin to drop, now is the perfect time to get into trail running… or break in a new pair before signing up for a trail running race. First, every time I wear these, I get compliments on how gorgeous they are and while that has no impact on running ability, it sure is a plus.

      But beyond the beautiful colour way, these trail shoes pack some serious tech that will serve beginners and more advanced trail runners well. Many trail shoes prioritise stability and technical support at the cost of comfort and cushioning, but the Genesis does the exact opposite. It has a highly supportive Active Chassis and unique two-part lug pattern (All-Terrain Contagrip® compound) and raised tread so your grip is secure no matter the terrain. And the Energy Foam and weaved Matryx® upper give you a comfortable and cushioned ride.

      When wearing the Genesis, I feel very confident and stable on the trails. This is something super important to me for two reasons. One, trail running is something I only do once or twice a week so I’m definitely an amateur and lack confidence. And because I’m a treadmill/road/gym frequenter, I’m not used to having to concentrate as much and tend to slip or almost lose my footing often on my trail runs. It really is a great trail shoe, I would just recommend sizing up.

      READ MORE: Maximise Your Runs With These Tips From The Pros

      Under Armour Infinite Elite

      Heel drop: 8mm | Cushion: Maximum | Pronation: Neutral | Price: R3 799

      Pros

      ✅  Revolutionary foam

      ✅ Great for long and everyday runs

      Cons

      ❌ Might be too stacked for some

      #WHTestsIt

      Now, this is a LOT of shoe. Your first thought about the Infinite Elite will definitely be about the height of it. It certainly was mine. And when you put them on you’d be forgiven for thinking you’re using stilts. But somehow the Infinite Elite doesn’t feel heavy at all.

      If it’s cushioning you want? It’s cushioning you’ll get with the Infinite Elites. Except the cushioning is unlike anything you’ve ever felt before. Under Armour has used new HOVR+ foam which they say gives the shoe superior energy return and a bouncier ride. And springy she is. This full-length one-piece bead foam midsole gives you a super plush experience that is perfect for your long run days and your everyday kilometres too.

      And if it’s your knees and joints you’re worried about, Under Armour has gone the extra step by using a bevel heel design that helps lessen heel impact and allows you to land smoothly and increase overall stability. I reach for these for my longer Saturday runs and really love how you can quite literally feel them help you bounce off the road.

      Plus if you’re looking for some kit to support you on your runs, the Infinity 2.0 High Sports Bras is one of the most supportive (and flattering) bras I’ve worn in a long time. And the straps can be adjusted to ensure you’ve got the perfect fit, every run

      Kelleigh is the Managing Editor of Women’s Health. When she’s not convincing her colleagues to try the latest TikTok trends, you can find her planning a holiday that never leaves the group chat, binge-reading or eating her way through Cape Town. More

    • 138 Shares

      in fitness and body

      Get Cushiness *And* Stability With The New PUMA Velocity Nitro 3

      by

      Consider the new PUMA Velocity Nitro 3 your go-to training shoes for long slogs, tempo runs and more. The shoe, with superior cushioning, makes for comfortable running, with enhanced speed tech to help you go faster.

      PUMA Velocity Nitro 3

      The Specs

      A lightweight shoe that doesn’t compromise on stability or comfort. A heel spoiler adds more stability to the shoe while NITRO™ Advanced technology provides superior responsiveness and cushioning.

      Cushioning level: medium

      Heel-to-toe drop: 8mm

      Pronation level: Neutral

      READ MORE: Introducing The PUMA Velocity NITRO™ 3 – Your Perfect Training Partner

      What it’s good for

      Made for all-round running, the Velocity Nitro 3 tackles all distances comfortably and quickly. It contains Nitrogen-infused foam technology for explosive energy to propel you forward easily and with an 8mm heal-to-toe drop, you will be very cushioned. Plus, stability straps, using PUMA’s PWRTAPE tech, cradle your foot so that with each stride, you’re comfortable and supported in the shoe. The grippy outsole provides traction on various surfaces, minimising slip and elevating your experience.

      READ MORE: 18 New Running Shoes To Help You Run Faster And Farther In 2024

      We tried it

      WH Creative Director Pia Hammond took to the streets with the Nine Four running club to test the shoe.

      “After a hiatus from running, I was hesitant about going in with a fear of losing steam running. The colour was the first thing that stood out for me, limo yellow/green seems to be trending right now. As soon as I put it on it hugged my foot with just enough space in the front for my toes to wiggle. The sole is narrow and bouncy, which made the running experience make me feel like a bouncing gazelle. As an experienced runner, I have been running 10km since receiving them, my pace is fast and it beats all my expectations of a running shoe. I will be using them for long and short distances in the future. Perhaps even pairing them with some jeans while running errands!”

      READ MORE: Ready To Play Padel? Here’s The Gear You Need, Per Experts

      Michelle is the features editor at WH. She’s immensely curious about the world, passionate about health and wellness and enjoys a good surf when the waves are good. More

    • 138 Shares

      in fitness and body

      Ready To Play Padel? Here’s The Gear You Need, Per Experts

      by

      So, you spotted everyone having a blast on the padel court this weekend and now you’re itching to join the new “it” sport? Don’t worry, that little voice in your head asking “is it worth it?” is totally normal. But trust me, you’re going to be hooked on this game in no time!

      First things first, let’s start with the basics:

      Racket: You can borrow a padel racket from a friend or rent one at most courts.

      Court Shoes: Trust, your regular kicks won’t cut it here. Grab yourself a pair of court shoes for maximum grip and agility.

      Outfit: Shorts, skorts, a tank top, or a t-shirt will do the trick.

      Balls: Can’t play padel without ’em! 

      Water bottle: Don’t forget to bring along a water bottle to keep you hydrated. Here’s how to pick the perfect one!

      Now that you’re a regular on the court, here’s what the pros recommend:

      Their advice? Don’t be overwhelmed by the options! While there are tons of brands out there, focus on finding the right fit and feel for you.

      Meet The Experts: Jackie Booth is a top-ranked female Padel player and Sports Director of Africa Padel. Simon Raab is from Padel Gear. Ricky Lewis is the Director of Virgin Active Padel Club. 

      “As one of the few level 2 internationally qualified coaches in SA and top-ranked women’s player with a Playtomic rating of 4.84, I have been fortunate to test a number of padel products on the market,” says Booth. “It is staggering the number of padel brands that have flooded the market over the past three years. As players become more discerning and knowledgeable about the various shapes, weights, soles and bounce of the rackets, footwear and balls, in my opinion, there are a few top contenders, some mirroring the international market leaders who have been playing this game for many more years.”

      “In the world of Padel, equipment tailored specifically for women isn’t just about style, it’s about maximising performance and safeguarding your health on the court,” says Simon Raab from Padel Gear SA.

      Padel Rackets 

      There are different types of padel rackets designed to suit various playing styles and skill levels. Beginners typically benefit from rackets with a larger sweet spot and a balance of power and control. Intermediate and advanced players might prefer rackets with more control or power, depending on their playing style.

      First Buy

      “Weight, shape and materials used such as carbon or fibreglass as well as price will be the determining factors for padel players who decide to purchase their own racket,” says Booth.

      Weight

      “New players need to be cautious buying a racket that is too heavy.  Incorrect technique coupled with a heavy racket can quickly result in an injury such as tennis elbow!  Women should stick to a weight range between 345 – 360 grams.  Beginners should also stick to either a round or teardrop shape head as these are more forgiving compared to the diamond shape which is better suited to expert players, as they are able to make consistent contact with the ball higher up on the racket face,” advises Booth.

      Material

      “Fibreglass has a soft feel but lacks power and durability. So, in my opinion, as a beginner, rather invest in a carbon racket.  Carbon provides more power and is also far more durable so the extra investment may save you in the long run,” recommends Booth. 

      PLAY TWO Drop Racket

      A signature choice for intermediate players seeking innovation. Crafted in Sweden, its custom heart minimises vibration, while a 7° racket shape maximises the sweet spot. It’s also got sharp edges for aerial control, a sand finish for spin and a 100% carbon frame for powerful hits.

      adidas DRIVE Light 3.3

      “This racket is designed for players who appreciate a few grams less in their hand. This condition facilitates handling and lightens the arm, especially for less powerful players. It is, therefore, a very interesting option for beginner-level players.”

      – Ricky Lewis, Virgin Active Padel Club

      Bullpadel Flow Light 2024

      “A light racket in beautiful colours, with a large sweet spot and very forgiving. World’s No. 1 selling Padel brand.”

      – Simon Read, Padel Gear

      Bullpadel Elite 24

      “My 2024 top choice for a women’s racket overall for all levels: It’s worth the investment!”

      – Jackie Booth, Africa Padel

      adidas Metalbone Team Light 3.3

      “This racket is designed for intermediate-level players who opt for fewer grams on their arm to achieve maximum performance.”

      – Ricky Lewis, Virgin Active Padel Club

      Black Crown Hurricane 2.0

      “A round-shaped racket, very forgiving, with excellent control and plenty of power.”

      – Simon Read, Padel Gear

      READ MORE: How To Relax Sore, Tired Muscles With Easy DIY Trigger Point Therapy

      Court Shoes

      Proper footwear is crucial for maintaining stability, agility and traction on the padel court. Padel-specific shoes offer features like durable outsoles with herringbone or omnidirectional patterns for grip, cushioning for comfort and lateral support to prevent ankle injuries.

      Bullpadel Elite 2024 

      “I have seen many rolled ankles and skinned knees due to incorrect footwear.  Padel shoes provide good grip and stability with lateral and linear movements required during a point. Comfort is key and I like a little extra cushion in the heel as I am on my feet for many hours of the day.”

      – Jackie Booth, Africa Padel

      adidas CourtJam Control 3 Shoes

      “Their flexible Bounce midsole will keep you on your toes while the Torsion System helps you translate instinct into quick cuts and slides.”

      – Ricky Lewis, Virgin Active Padel Club

      Bullpadel Next Pro White

      “Style with technical ability and design.” 

      – Simon Read, Padel Gear

      JOMA T Open White

      “Excellent support and a great grip on the court.”

      – Simon Read, Padel Gear

      Balls

      Padel balls are specifically designed for the sport, typically featuring a lower bounce than tennis balls. They’re made of rubber and come in various colours (usually yellow or white) to enhance visibility on the court. Make sure to have a sufficient number of balls for your practice sessions or matches.

      Bullpadel Next Pro FIP Balls

      “A ball that is durable, keeps its firmness and provides a consistent bounce can only be a great quality ball.  This ball is designed for tournaments and due to its long life capability is also the perfect coaching ball all at a very reasonable price.”

      – Jackie Booth, Africa Padel

      adidas Balls Speed Rx

      “Speed Rx is the best ball for beginner to intermediate. It stands out for its great durability and extra bounce.”

      – Ricky Lewis, Virgin Active Padel Club

      Black Crown Pro Padel Balls

      “Perfectly bouncy Padel balls are essential for every game. Why not try these Padel balls, made from high-quality materials to ensure excellent durability and long-lasting bounce?”

      – Simon Read, Padel Gear

      Wilson Padel Balls

      Engineered for optimal consistency, durability and playability, these balls feature Dura-Weave felt for reliable performance on faster court surfaces.

      More On Padel:

      Chamain is the Online Editor of Women’s Health. Explorer by heart, a creative thinker by day and a coffee addict, always. My hobbies include hiking, drawing, painting, photography, cooking and *recently* running. More

    • 125 Shares

      in fitness and body

      Say Hello To The Time-Saving Phone You’ve Been Waiting For

      by

      Every year, tech giants push the boundaries of possibility with their latest releases, and this year, Samsung is rewriting the innovation rulebook. We got our hands on the new S24+ for a test spin and got to say, it’s the must-have accessory every boss babe needs! We’re here to unpack all the juicy features and specs and why these new AI features will make your life so much easier.

      We know what you’re thinking, “How much more can they possibly cram into these devices?” Well, this isn’t just another smartphone – it’s a powerhouse of next-gen AI features. From handling messages like a total pro to durability that’s off the charts, this device is solid proof that the future has officially arrived and it’s blowing our minds!

      Now, let’s talk specs:

      Front camera: 12MP crystal-clear selfies and immersive video calls

      Rear cameras: Advanced system with wide (50MP), telephoto (10MP) and ultra-wide (12MP) options

      Battery: Robust 4900 mAh for all-day power

      New updates: Enhanced AI features, improved performance and security

      A New Way To Create 

      Among the standout features of the cutting-edge Samsung S24+ is its array of innovative camera settings and editing tools, presenting users with a myriad of creative possibilities. Explore Space Zoom, indulge in high-resolution imaging and experience the intuitive functionality of the Intelligent Gallery. 

      Additionally, the AI Photo Assist feature revolutionises editing, effortlessly allowing users to remove or relocate objects in photos, adjusting backgrounds and maintaining visual integrity. With auto-fill capabilities to straighten images and resize objects, the Samsung S24+ empowers users to unleash their creativity with unparalleled ease.

      It’s All About The Experience 

      Discover and Shop

      Tired of pausing your favourite videos just to hunt down that elusive item you spotted? With a simple gesture, you can circle any object on your screen, whether it’s those trendy sneakers, a breathtaking holiday destination, or a mouthwatering restaurant dish. Instantly, the AI springs into action, presenting you with a curated selection of similar products or experiences that match your interests.

      This feature isn’t limited to just one platform – whether you’re binge-watching Netflix, exploring YouTube, or scrolling through Instagram, “Circle to Search” integrates into your favourite apps, ensuring that you never miss a chance to discover something new and exciting.

      Break Down Language Barriers With Ease

      Imagine making a call to a friend or colleague who speaks a different language and seamlessly engaging in a conversation as if you were speaking the same tongue. With a tap, your speech becomes text, enabling seamless understanding in real time. Supporting 15 languages and requiring only airtime, it’s a Wi-Fi and data-free solution to global communication.

      READ MORE: On The Flip Side With Samsung

      Time To Chat

      Chat effortlessly with friends in different languages, as the Samsung S24+ translates conversations in real-time, not confined to just text and Samsung messages but extending its prowess to popular platforms like WhatsApp. Supporting 35 languages, it integrates smoothly with third-party apps, eliminating the need to juggle between multiple translation tools such as Google Chat, WhatsApp, KakaoTalk and Tango.

      Messaging Mojo

      Tone assist offers versatility in expressing yourself across professional, casual, social, or emoji tones. Integrated into your chats, this feature suggests replies tailored to your message’s context and offers alternative styles to suit any situation. Simply type your text, tap the AI icon and explore a spectrum of expressive options at your fingertips.

      READ MORE: The 8 Greatest Smartwatches And Trackers To Elevate Your Health and Fitness

      To wrap it all up, every single feature we’ve talked about is designed to be time-saving, helping you smash your goals faster than ever before. Whether you’re a social media influencer or a savvy business owner, take it from us, the S24+ comes with our highest recommendation.

      For more information and spec breakdown, please visit samsung.com. More

    • 125 Shares

      in fitness and body

      What To Look Out For When Picking a Water Bottle

      by

      Here’s an unexpected win for the environment: reusable water bottles are having an it-girl moment, thanks in part to the wildly popular Stanley cups. While we’ve successfully eschewed single-use bottles and opted for giant tumblers from which to sip iced coffees and sparkling mocktails, it’s worth investigating the materials used. So, which material is best? We chatted to an expert for the low-down on how to pick a water bottle.

      Meet the expert: Charlotte Metcalf is the CEO of the South African National Bottled Water Association.

      What to look out for when picking a water bottle

      Check its sustainability

      “Every single material used to manufacture reusable/re-fillable beverage bottles has an impact on the environment,” says Charlotte Metcalf, CEO of the South African National Bottled Water Association. “This impact differs between each material be it plastic, aluminium, glass or stainless steel, or any other less well-known packaging materials which may be used for this function.”

      Having said that, the longevity of your reusable water bottle plays a role in its sustainability. Stainless steel, for example, will last longer than single-use plastic, making it a more sustainable option. Bottom line: the longer you hang onto your water bottle, the better for the environment, since this lowers its impact.

      Check for scratches

      Another factor to consider, when picking a water bottle, is how likely it is to harbour bacteria. “What is particularly important to consider is that all materials are prone to scratching, pitting and wearing from regular cleaning,” says Metcalf. “These surface imperfections offer the ideal breeding ground for bacteria as they trap and protect bacteria and are difficult to clean.” To keep your bottle clean, experts advise that you wash your water bottle once a day with vinegar or bicarbonate of soda and water. Bleach will leave an odour and is unsafe, so steer clear. Another note: avoid abrasive products in your water bottle, as these create tiny scratches where bacteria flourish.

      READ MORE: TikTok’s Viral 30-30-30 Challenge: Does It Work For Weight Loss?

      Consider the design

      By this, we don’t mean a water bottle with aspirational wording or cute colour. Rather, Metcalf explains that ridges, bends and other design features inside the walls of the bottle could create crevices where bacteria flourish. “Good design will feature no parts, voids, ridges, liners and spaces in which bacteria can accumulate and that cannot be properly cleaned,” says Metcalf. “With these design features, a reusable bottle can easily become like your pet’s water bowl, lined with slime-forming bacteria or even air-borne disease-causing organisms.”

      Dedicate your bottle to water

      Even if you’re a flavoured water queen or have a penchant for cooldrink, aim to consume those from a different container. “It is important that reusable bottles must be dedicated to water,” explains Metcalf. “Once you fill the bottle with other beverages containing sugar, fats and flavouring, it becomes difficult to clean all traces of these ingredients as these ‘added nutrients’ will fuel the growth of unwanted organisms.” Yikes.

      READ MORE: 11 Avo Toast Recipes That’ll Fill You Up For Less Than 350 Calories

      How to pick a plastic water bottle

      While plastic uses the least amount of resources to manufacture, its health impacts are murkier. For starters, studies link the popular water bottle material BPA (Bisphenol A) to adverse health outcomes like hormonal disruptions. While you can look to BPA-free bottles, their alternatives, like bisphenol S (BPS) and bisphenol F (BPF) are also used in plastic water bottles and the studies on their health impacts remain to be seen. Per Metcalf, bottles made from PET (Polyethylene terephthalate) are seen as safe. “The inert PET bottle is a well-accepted package all over the world and is completely safe to drink from,” says Metcalf.

      If you’re using a plastic water bottle, make sure you clean it regularly and prevent scratches and pitting on the inside. “Reusable/refillable [water bottles] must be regularly examined for pitting and wear-and-tear, regardless of the material they are made from, and discarded as soon as they become worn and difficult to clean,” says Metcalf.

      Plastic water bottles

      How to pick a glass water bottle

      Glass, generally speaking, is good. They’re much easier to spot when dirty, making it easier to keep clean. They’re also free of chemicals, are natural and are dishwasher-safe.

      Glass water bottles, however, are not the most sustainable of the bunch. “Although glass is inert, it takes a lot of energy to produce, transport and recycle. Glass breakage in the environment is dangerous and extremely difficult to remove,” explains Metcalf. If you treat it well, however, it could last a long time.

      Glass water bottles

      READ MORE: 10 Things That Happen To Your Body During Dry January

      How to pick a stainless steel water bottle

      Steel’s known for its ability to keep hot drinks warm and cold drinks cool, making it a versatile option to lug around to the gym and everywhere else. If you’re leaning towards metal, Metcalf suggests opting for something other than aluminium, which can leach toxins into the environment.

      Stainless steel, if made from low-quality materials, can be a problem. “Low-quality stainless-steel bottles can present toxic lead levels from the sealing dot on the base,” says Metcalf. To mitigate this, she suggests checking that your stainless steel water bottle is 18/8 food-grade stainless steel.

      Stainless steel bottles

      Michelle October

      Michelle is the features editor at WH. She’s immensely curious about the world, passionate about health and wellness and enjoys a good surf when the waves are good. Find her on Instagram here. More