2022 in Review Our Top 10 Bestsellers!

Robert Cerff / 09-12-2022 / Tech

It’s that time of year where we countdown our top 10 bestsellers for 2022! Are you ready to find out which smartphones and mobile deals were a hit with South Africans? Read on to find out.

This year South Africans were all about high-performing smartphones with solid specs, beautiful designs, and great value for money, with SIM-only deals also in big demand!

Let’s start the countdown…

  1. Apple iPhone 13

Kicking off the list is the mighty Apple iPhone 13. It delivers fast processing speeds made possible by the A15 Bionic chipset. Other highlights include a 3240 mAh battery with all-day endurance, a 12MP dual camera setup capturing dynamic true-to-life photos, and a vibrant 6.1-inch OLED display that peaks at a brilliant 1200 nits.

Get an Apple iPhone 13 deal from R579 p/m.

  1. SIM-only deals

SIM-only data contracts were in huge demand throughout the year. There were a whole host of options from Telkom, Vodacom and MTN offering everything from data-only deals to a combination of data, minutes, SMSs, and even built-in rewards programmes. There was plenty for South Africans to choose from, and in 2023, we're bringing you even more affordable SIM-only deals!

Grab a SIM-only deal from only R59 p/m.

  1. Apple iPhone 11

Another bestselling Apple smartphone was the iPhone 11, with its large 6.1-inch LCD, 3110 mAh battery, 18W fast charging capabilities and dual camera setup. The chipset delivers a speedy, fluid experience enhanced by 4GB RAM. It’s comes in three different internal storage options to suit your needs (64GB, 128GB and 256GB).

Get an Apple iPhone 11 deal from R419 p/m.

  1. Huawei nova Y9a

The Huawei nova range is no stranger to bestselling lists and this year is no different. In 7th place is the Huawei nova Y9a. This device boasts a captivating 6.63-inch LCD with a 92% screen-to-body ratio, a 4200 mAh battery featuring AI power-saving technology, 40W SuperCharge capabilities, a 64MP high-res quad camera setup, and an impressive 8GB RAM and 128GB ROM with up to 256GB expandable storage. Powering these highly competitive specs is the MediaTek Helio G80 chipset that handles multitasking like a pro.

Find your Huawei nova Y9a from only R229 p/m.

  1. Huawei P Smart 2021

At number 6 is the well-rounded and budget-friendly Huawei P Smart 2021. Under the hood, you get a capable Kirin 710A chipset, an expansive 6.67-inch FullHD LCD display, solid endurance delivered by a large 5000 mAh battery, quad rear cameras headlined by a 48MP main shooter. You also get 4GB RAM and 128GB storage with a microSD external storage slot that is capable of holding up to 512GB.

Own the Huawei P Smart 2021 from only R239 p/m.

  1. Huawei nova Y60

The Huawei nova Y60’s internal hardware reveals why it was a popular choice throughout 2022. It sports three powerful rear cameras that produce vivid photos, a big 6.6-inch FullView Display with super-thin bezels for an immersive viewing experience and a large 5000 mAh battery with innovative power-saving modes. It’s powered by the responsive Mediatek MT6765 Helio P35 chipset and offers 4GB RAM and 64GB onboard memory with an expandable storage up to 512GB. 

Get the Huawei nova Y60 from only R219 p/m.

  1. Huawei P Smart S

The Huawei P Smart S was a huge hit this year, and that’s why it claims spot number 4. It sports a 6.3-inch OLED display, a high-performing Kirin 710F processor, an impressive 48MP main camera and excellent battery life with innovative power-saving modes. This budget smartphone offers a premium viewing experience, smooth performance and hassle-free multitasking.

Grab a Huawei P Smart S from only R239 p/m.

  1. Samsung Galaxy A13

Coming in hot in third place is one of the most affordable smartphones on the market -  the Samsung Galaxy A13. This device gives you great features, perfect for everyday use. These include a large 5000 mAh battery, a vibrant 6.6-inch IPS display, a 50MP quad camera, as well as 4GB RAM and 64GB internal storage that can be expanded up to a massive 1TB via a microSD slot.

Get your own Samsung Galaxy A13 with deals starting from only R169 p/m.

  1. Huawei nova 8i

The downsized version of Huawei’s nova 8i is receiving plenty of attention from South African buyers thanks to the device’s cutting-edge features combined with excellent value for money. The immersive 6.67-inch display, 66W fast charging capabilities and attention-grabbing quad camera setup with a massive 64MP main shooter has secured its runner-up status this year. It’s a smooth-performing smartphone powered by the Snapdragon 662 chipset with 128GB internal storage and a choice of 6GB or 8GB RAM.

Get a Huawei nova 8i from only R269 p/m.

  1.Huawei P10 Plus

Mondo’s bestseller for 2022 is the Huawei P10 Plus! It’s no surprise that this smartphone, released all the way back in 2017, is still going strong on the local market. It hits the sweet spot between high-performing specs and unmatched affordability. It’s packed with great features, including a powerful dual camera setup with a 20MP main shooter, a good amount of space with 128GB internal storage and 6GB RAM, and a crystal clear 5.5-inch display delivering outstanding Quad HD resolution. All these features and more are powered by the capable HiSilicon Kirin 960 chipset.

Want the bestselling phone of 2022? Get a Huawei P10 Plus from only R149 p/m.

It’s been a great year, and we can’t wait to bring your more of the latest and greatest smartphone and SIM-only deals in 2023, only from Mondo.co.za/mobile

TECH NEWS

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Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 & Z Fold 7

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 & Z Fold 7: The Latest Features You Need to KnowSamsung is unfolding new possibilities with the Galaxy Z Flip 7 and the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7. Here’s what South Africans can expect in new features, design and more.Samsung’s Making the Flip The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 and the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 haven’t officially dropped yet but the hype is building- and for good reason. With new designs, smoother folds and upgraded performance, these foldables are built to impress. Think vivid displays, long-lasting batteries and power that keeps up from day to night. Here’s full breakdown on what’s coming.Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 & Z Fold 7: What’s Coming Expected to launch at the July 2025 Galaxy Unpacked event, the Galaxy Z Flip 7 and Galaxy Z Fold 7 promise more style, power and smarter everyday functionality. There’s even whispers of a more affordable Galaxy Flip 7 FE model on the horizon. The Galaxy Z Flip 7 is expected to make life easier due to the larger cover screen that lets you check messages, snap selfies and control music.  Inside, its smooth, responsive display keeps scrolling effortless and upgraded cameras mean better shots for both day and night.Meanwhile, the Galaxy Z Fold 7 is rumoured to be Samsung’s thinnest foldable yet. It is apparently big on screen space when you need it, compact when you don’t. Perfect for working, watching shows and unwinding.From bold new colours to ultra-smooth performance, these foldables are built to turn heads and keep up with your day. Think massive storage, fast multitasking and a 200MP main camera ready to capture everything in crisp detail. And with enhanced durability and better resistance to dust and water, you’ll be able to take this tech with you everywhere. To Flip or Fold? Can’t choose between the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 and the Samsung Z Fold 7? If sleek design, one-handed use and quick access are your vibe, the Galaxy Z Flip 7 is your match. Compact when folded, it packs a handy 4 inch cover screen for notifications and selfies plus a stunning 120Hz main display. On the flip side, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 is for those craving more screen space, power and features. With its massive 8.2 inch display, up to 1TB storage and a jaw-dropping 200MP main camera, it’s a productivity powerhouse in your pocket. The Downside of FoldablesWhile the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 and Z Fold 7 pack serious innovation and style, they come with drawbacks. Foldables still carry a high price that might be a deterrent for anyone on a budget. And despite durability upgrades, screens on foldables are more delicate than on regular smartphones. Battery life can dip due to the vibrant, larger displays. The Z Fold 7 is slimmer but bulkier unfolded. Not all apps are fully optimised for foldable smartphones either so expect some wonkiness on this front. Plus there’s a learning curve with folding, multitasking and new gestures.Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 and Z Fold 7 vs. The CompetitionEven without knowing all the feature details right now, the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 and Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 seem to be setting the gold standard for foldables. It’s the rumours of the sleek designs, vibrant displays and powerful performances that are tipping it over. But that doesn’t mean it’s not facing fierce competition. Huawei stands out in the foldable market for supplying solid hardware and competitive pricing – especially with the new scene-stealing Huawei Mate XT and Mate X6.Oppo and Xiaomi also continue to push boundaries with innovation and affordability. Still, Samsung’s combination of durability, refined software and seamless ecosystem integration gives it the edge. Verdict Samsung’s Galaxy Z Flip 7 and the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 push foldable tech forward with sleek designs, impressive specs and thoughtful upgrades. These models deliver a blend of style, power and durability that few can match. Whether you want compact convenience or a productivity powerhouse, Samsung remains the top choice in the foldable race – at least for now. Want to stay ahead of the fold? Join our newsletter for the latest tech news, gadget reviews and exclusive deals delivered straight to your inbox.FAQS1. What are the key features of the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 and the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7?The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 features a larger 4-inch cover screen and a smooth 120Hz foldable main display plus dual rear cameras (50MP wide and 12MP ultra-wide). The Z Fold 7 offers a bigger 8.2-inch main display, a 6.5 inch cover screen, up to 1TB storage, 16GB RAM and a standout 200MP main camera, making it Samsung’s slimmest and most powerful foldable yet.2. When will the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 and the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 be released?Samsung is expected to officially launch both devices at their Galaxy Unpacked event in July 2025. 3. How do I choose between the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 and Z Fold 7?If you prefer a compact, stylish phone for easy one-handed use, the Z Flip 7 is ideal with its handy cover screen and foldable design. For those wanting a larger screen for multitasking, productivity and high-end camera features, the Z Fold 7 offers more power and screen real estate.4. What are the downsides of the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 and Z Fold 7?Both foldables carry a more expensive price tag and have more delicate foldable screens compared to regular smartphones. Battery life may be shorter due to the big displays while some apps might not fully support foldable screen formats yet.5. How do Samsung’s foldables compare to competitors like Huawei and Xiaomi?Samsung’s Galaxy Z Flip 7 and Z Fold 7 lead the foldable market with superior design, durable builds and polished software. While competitors like Huawei, Oppo, and Xiaomi offer competitive pricing and innovation, Samsung’s ecosystem integration and reliability keep it ahead.References:https://www.phonearena.com/news/samsung-galaxy-z-flip-7-fold-7-coming-july_id171115https://www.techradar.com/phones/samsung-galaxy-phones/samsung-galaxy-z-fold-7 https://www.techradar.com/phones/samsung-galaxy-phones/samsung-galaxy-z-flip-7-specshttps://www.droid-life.com/2025/06/16/report-galaxy-z-flip-7-fe-will-be-affordable-flip-phone-option/

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What to Expect from the New iPhone 17

Find out more about the new iPhone 17 range with Apple camera upgrades, a stunning ProMotion display and the powerful A19 chip, plus details on the new iPhone 17 Air.A Delectable New Apple  Apple is set to refresh its iPhone line-up with the upcoming iPhone 17 series, expected to drop in September 2025. The new Apple is hinting at many an upgrade, including cameras moving to the more refined ProMotion display and a powerful new A19 chip.There’s a lot to look forward to – especially with the introduction of the iPhone 17 Air. If you’re ready for an upgrade or you’re just curious about what's next, here’s a full look at what the iPhone 17 could bring to the table.Apple iPhone 17 Air: A Newbie Joins the A-TeamApple is reportedly set to retire the iPhone Plus and replace it with the sleek, lightweight iPhone 17 Air. Designed a step away from the Pro model, the new addition looks like it will be a feature-rich, mid-tier option with a fresh design and impressive specs.A Slimmer Frame, A Smoother DisplayThe iPhone 17 Air is rumoured to feature a 6.6-inch ProMotion display with a 120Hz refresh rate, making it perfect for seamless scrolling, smooth animations and binge-worthy streaming. Its ultra-thin profile (early leaks say that the phone is just 5 – 6mm thick) gives it a modern edge. The iPhone 17 series is also rumoured to feature a redesigned centre rear camera setup to give it a distinct and symmetrical look.Modern Touches Meet Everyday FunctionalityBeyond aesthetics, it’s packed with practical upgrades. The MagSafe charger, Action Button and a new Camera Control button aim to enhance usability for users constantly on the move.Under the Hood: Power Meets PortabilityRunning on the next-gen A19 chip, performance is expected to be fast and efficient – ideal for multitasking, mobile gaming and demanding apps. However, there’s one catch. The iPhone 17 Air comes with a 2800mAh battery – the smallest battery in recent iPhone history. That’s only a slight bump from the iPhone 12’s 2815mAh. Not sure how we feel about this yet, but let’s wait for the usage tests before we judge. A Quick Look at the CameraCamera leaks suggest a single-lens 48MP rear shooter, likely optimised with software improvements. While it won’t rival the Pro line-up’s multi-lens system, it should be more than capable for everyday photography and video.Apple iPhone 17Joining the iPhone 17 Air in Apple’s 2025 line-up are three more models: the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro and the flagship iPhone 17 Pro Max. No word yet about what colours we can expect this year. All four iPhone 17 models are rumoured to feature a 24MP front-facing camera – a major jump from the 12MP lens found in the iPhone 16 series. This upgrade promises sharper, more detailed visuals from the front camera.The iPhone 17 Pro is where the photography-focused features start to shine. Leaks point to a triple 48MP camera setup, including a Wide, Ultra-Wide and a Tetraprism Telephoto lens. If true, this marks the first time Apple has equipped a single iPhone with three 48MP sensors, giving users enhanced flexibility without compromising image quality.From panoramic landscapes to close-up zoom shots, the Pro model is expected to deliver exceptional results across the board. The iPhone 17 Pro is also tipped to support 8K video recording for ultra-high-definition footage. Whether you’re filming cinematic scenes or documenting daily life, this could raise the bar for mobile video.Performance and DisplayThe base iPhone 17 is expected to retain the familiar sleek silhouette of the iPhone 16, this time with a slightly larger 6.3-inch display. It’s a subtle size increase that offers more screen space without sacrificing hand comfort. All models in the 2025 line-up are tipped to feature LTPO OLED displays, offering vibrant colours and deep contrast with improved power efficiency. And yes – ProMotion technology is finally expected across the entire iPhone 17 range. That means a 120Hz refresh rate for ultra-smooth scrolling and a more responsive feel from the standard to the Pro Max. Under the hood, the iPhone 17 is set to run on the A18 chip paired with 8GB of RAM. Expect faster app launches, improved multitasking and an overall snappier experience.Verdict September is feeling like a long way away! While nothings confirmed, what we do know so far about iPhone 17 is very promising and there’s plenty to get excited about.We’ll be tracking every update as it drops. Follow us on social media to stay in the loop and find out the moment Apple makes it official.FAQs1. What is the iPhone 17 Air and how is it different from previous models? The iPhone 17 Air is rumoured to replace the Plus model with a slimmer, lighter design, a 6.6-inch ProMotion display and Apple’s A19 chip. It’s expected to sit between the base iPhone 17 and the Pro models, offering solid performance without the premium price tag.2. Will all iPhone 17 models have ProMotion displays? Yes – according to early leaks, all four models in the iPhone 17 line-up will feature ProMotion technology with a 120Hz refresh rate for smoother scrolling and overall better responsiveness.3. What are the camera upgrades in the iPhone 17 series? All iPhone 17 models are expected to feature a 24MP front-facing camera, doubling the resolution from the iPhone 16. The iPhone 17 Pro could also debut a triple 48MP rear camera system, with Wide, Ultra-Wide and Tetraprism Telephoto lenses plus support for 8K video and dual video recording.4. What chip will power the iPhone 17 range? The base iPhone 17 is expected to run on the A18 chip with 8GB of RAM while the iPhone 17 Air and Pro models are tipped to feature the newer A19 chip for enhanced performance, power efficiency and multitasking.5. How is the battery life on the iPhone 17 Air? The iPhone 17 Air is rumoured to have a 2800mAh battery – the smallest in recent iPhone history. Right now it might sound a bit limiting but real-world performance will depend on how efficiently the new A19 chip manages power. We'll know more after usage tests.6. When is the iPhone 17 expected to be released? Apple hasn’t confirmed a release date yet, but based on previous launch patterns, the iPhone 17 series is likely to be announced in September 2025.References:https://www.macrumors.com/roundup/iphone-17-air/https://www.perplexity.ai/page/apple-iphone-17-air-features-a-Vz_LYNvjSvm4juiqylhZiA https://www.macrumors.com/roundup/iphone-17/https://www.indiatimes.com/technology/news/apple-iphone-17-base-model-to-get-a18-chipset-and-8gb-of-ram-here-is-what-we-know-so-far-660176.html

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Honor 400 Lite: Is it Worth the Hype?

The Honor 400 Lite: a budget smartphone with impressive camera quality, sleek design and MagicOS 9.0. Is this your next perfect smartphone?Hello, Honor 400 LiteThe Honor 400 Lite might be the budget-friendly upgrade you've been waiting for. This mid-range smartphone features a sleek, modern design, solid everyday performance and a camera that delivers surprisingly sharp results for its class. Running on MagicOS 9.0, it offers a smoother, more intuitive user experience with better battery optimisation and useful quality-of-life improvements. From casual photography and multitasking to streaming and browsing, the Honor 400 Lite performs well across the board. It’s a smart choice for users who want practical functionality without the premium price tag. Read our full review to see if the Honor 400 Lite is the right fit for you.Design and BuildFor a mid-range device, the Honor 400 Lite stands out with a premium design that feels more expensive than its price suggests. It features flat edges, a slim profile and a distinctive triangular camera module that gives it a modern edge. The matte back finish helps reduce fingerprint smudges while IP64 water and dust resistance adds everyday durability you can rely on.Available in Marrs Green and Velvet Black, the Honor 400 Lite brings a stylish touch to your setup. The 6.7-inch AMOLED screen offers crisp, vivid visuals. Paired with the 120Hz refresh rate, scrolling through apps or watching videos feels smooth and responsive, making this a smartphone that is ideal for both work and downtime, whether you’re indoors or outdoors.Camera PerformanceThe Honor 400 Lite features a 108MP main camera and a 16MP front-facing camera, a pretty impressive setup for a phone at this price point.While the front camera is a step down from the 50MP sensor on the Honor 200 Lite, it still performs well. The built-in front-facing light helps improve clarity in low-light environments, making video calls and selfies look good even when the lighting isn’t perfect.The rear camera captures sharp, well-balanced images in good lighting conditions, making it a strong choice for casual photography and social media content. It handles landscapes, portraits and close-up shots with ease. For most users, it offers more than enough to document daily moments without needing a dedicated camera or extra equipment.Performance and SoftwareThe Honor 400 Lite is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7025 Ultra chipset, paired with 8GB of RAM. This setup performs well for everyday tasks like messaging, web browsing and video streaming, offering a smooth and responsive experience in typical day-to-day use. Multitasking between apps is generally snappy, though users running more demanding games or resource-heavy apps may occasionally notice performance slowdowns.What sets this phone apart is MagicOS 9.0- built on Android 15, which promises up to six years of updates. That long-term software support adds extra value for users who want a phone that stays functional, secure and up to date without needing frequent upgrades or replacements.Battery Life and ChargingThe Honor 400 Lite packs a 5 230mAh battery, an average expectation in smartphones these days. When your battery does dip, the 35W HONOR SuperCharge gets you powered up quickly – so no more scrambling in those moments when time is tight or a plug point is rare.Just ten minutes during your coffee stop or lunch break could mean hours of extra use. For South Africans juggling daily demands or dealing with load shedding, a battery this reliable is a lifeline for staying connected, productive and stress-free.The Verdict The Honor 400 Lite delivers real value for a mid-range smartphone. It combines a sleek, durable design with reliable performance, a solid camera setup and a battery built to go the distance. Covering all the essentials without cutting corners, long-term software support ensures your device stays secure and up to date well into the future. It’s a smart pick for users who want a stylish, functional phone that won’t need replacing in a year. If you're after something that works hard, looks good and doesn’t blow your budget, the Honor 400 Lite might be the one!FAQS1. What are the main features of the Honor 400 Lite? The Honor 400 Lite offers a sleek design, a 108MP main camera, a vibrant 6.7-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate and a long-lasting 5230mAh battery with 35W fast charging. It runs on MagicOS 9.0, based on Android 15, providing smooth performance, enhanced user experience and up to six years of software updates.2. How good is the Honor 400 Lite’s camera for everyday use? The Honor 400 Lite’s 108MP rear camera delivers sharp, natural photos in good lighting, capturing vivid details and vibrant colours while the 16MP front camera includes a handy selfie light for clearer low-light shots. It’s well-suited for casual photography, video calls, social media sharing and creating memorable content on the go.3. How long does the Honor 400 Lite’s battery last? With its 5230mAh battery, the Honor 400 Lite easily lasts through a full day of messaging, streaming and browsing.  When it needs a boost, the 35W HONOR SuperCharge quickly tops up your phone, so you can stay powered and connected even during your busiest, most demanding days4. Can the Honor 400 Lite handle gaming and multitasking? Powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7025 Ultra chipset and 8GB RAM, the Honor 400 Lite handles everyday apps smoothly. While casual gaming and multitasking work well, more demanding games or apps may cause occasional lag.5. How long will the Honor 400 Lite receive software updates? The Honor 400 Lite runs MagicOS 9.0 on Android 15 and promises up to six years of updates, including four major Android upgrades and two years of security patches. This long-term support helps keep your phone secure and up to date.References:https://www.honor.com/za/phones/honor-400-lite/ 

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