Apple Event 2022: The New iPhone SE is Here!

Robert Cerff / 09-03-2022 / News & Tips

Apple held their first event for 2022 on 8th March, and like many people hoped, they announced a brand-new edition of the popular, pocket-friendly Apple iPhone SE 2022. Check out all the juicy details below.

PRESS RELEASE FROM APPLE INC.

Apple announces the new iPhone SE: a powerful smartphone in an iconic design.

The most affordable iPhone features the powerful A15 Bionic, 5G, better battery life, improved durability, and a new camera system with advanced features like Smart HDR 4, Photographic Styles, and Deep Fusion

Cupertino, California Apple today announced iPhone SE, a powerful new iPhone in an iconic design, with exceptional capabilities and performance at an incredible price. iPhone SE comes in a compact and durable design, and together with iOS 15, delivers a seamless user experience. The new iPhone SE features impressive upgrades including the performance of A15 Bionic, which powers advanced camera capabilities and makes nearly every experience better, from photo editing to power-intensive operations like gaming and augmented reality. Along with 5G, longer battery life, and improved durability, iPhone SE comes in three stunning colors — midnight, starlight, and (PRODUCT)RED. iPhone SE will be available for pre-order this Friday, March 11, with availability beginning Friday, March 18.

“iPhone SE has been an incredibly popular choice with our existing users and for new iPhone customers, thanks to its iconic design, exceptional performance, and affordable price. This year we’ve built the most powerful and durable iPhone SE yet, with better battery life thanks to A15 Bionic, the same chip as our iPhone 13 lineup that also unlocks advanced camera features like Smart HDR 4, Photographic Styles, and Deep Fusion,” said Kaiann Drance, Apple’s vice president of Worldwide iPhone Product Marketing. “And with 5G, iPhone SE gives users faster downloads and uploads, higher quality video streaming, real-time interactivity in apps, and much more. Delivering the latest generation of technology and performance at this price is something only Apple can do.”

Iconic Design with a 4.7-inch Display

iPhone SE is as durable as it is beautiful and features an aerospace-grade aluminum and glass design, now with the toughest glass in a smartphone on the front and back — the same as on the back of iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13. Rated IP67 for water and dust resistance, iPhone SE is designed to protect against spills. iPhone SE features the familiar Home button with Touch ID — an easy, private, and secure alternative for logging in to apps, authorizing App Store purchases, making Apple Pay transactions, and more.

A15 Bionic: The Ultimate Smartphone Chip

The power of Apple silicon delivers industry-leading performance and cutting-edge capabilities to iPhone. The lightning-fast A15 Bionic — introduced with iPhone 13 — comes to iPhone SE and makes nearly every experience better, from launching apps to handling demanding tasks with ease. A15 Bionic packs a powerful 6-core CPU, the fastest CPU in a smartphone, with two high-performance cores and four high-efficiency cores, making iPhone SE up to 1.8x faster than iPhone 8, and even faster compared to older models. The 16-core Neural Engine is capable of 15.8 trillion operations per second, enabling faster machine learning computations for third-party applications, as well as unlocking features for iPhone SE like Live Text in the Camera app with iOS 15 and on-device dictation. Perfect for photography, gaming, and augmented reality experiences, A15 Bionic makes every action feel fluid.

Built for efficiency, A15 Bionic works in conjunction with the latest-generation battery chemistry and tight integration with iOS 15 to enable better battery life on iPhone SE. Even with its compact form factor and new technologies like 5G, iPhone SE has longer battery life than the previous-generation and older 4.7-inch iPhone models. iPhone SE is compatible with Qi-certified chargers for wireless charging, and also supports fast charging.

New Camera Experience Powered by A15 Bionic

iPhone SE features an all-new camera system powered by A15 Bionic, with a 12-megapixel ƒ/1.8 aperture Wide camera that offers incredible computational photography benefits, including Smart HDR , Photographic Styles, Deep Fusion, and Portrait mode.4 Introduced with iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13, Smart HDR 4 uses intelligent segmentation to apply different adjustments for color, contrast, and noise to the subject versus the background. This ensures faces are properly exposed in challenging lighting, and renders people in the same photo individually, with different adjustments optimized for lighting and skin tone for each person. Photographic Styles allows users to bring their personal photo preferences to every image while still benefitting from Apple’s multiframe image processing. Preset and customized preferences work across scenes and subjects, and unlike a simple filter, intelligently apply the right adjustments to different parts of the photo to ensure the important elements, like skin tones, are preserved. Deep Fusion uses advanced machine learning to do pixel-by-pixel processing, optimizing for texture, details, and noise in every part of the photo. The image signal processor in A15 Bionic delivers significantly improved videos with reduced noise, particularly in low light, with better white balance and truer skin tone.

5G Comes to iPhone SE

5G allows users to take advantage of the latest generation of wireless technology, with faster uploads and downloads, lower latency, and better experiences in more places — like seeing family with higher-quality HD FaceTime calls, even when on cellular data and not on Wi-Fi.5 With iOS 15, SharePlay on 5G unlocks powerful shared experiences such as watching HDR movies or TV shows in sync with friends while on a FaceTime call. And Smart Data mode will intelligently conserve battery life by automatically shifting iPhone to LTE when 5G speeds are not needed. Support for 5G worldwide is growing, with more than 200 carriers in over 70 markets and regions supporting it by the end of the year.

Featuring iOS 15

iOS 15 enhances the iPhone experience with more ways to stay connected, powerful updates that help users focus and explore, and intelligent features to get more done with iPhone. Now FaceTime calls feel more natural with spatial audio and a new Portrait mode, SharePlay delivers a way for users to share experiences with friends and family while on a FaceTime call, Focus helps users reduce distraction, notifications have been redesigned, and Live Text uses on-device intelligence to recognize text in a photo and allows users to take action. Apple Maps brings beautiful ways to navigate and explore the world with a three-dimensional city-driving experience and walking directions in augmented reality. Weather is redesigned with full-screen maps and more graphical displays of data, Wallet adds support for home keys and state IDs, and privacy controls in Siri, Mail, and more places across the system further protect user information.

iPhone SE and the Environment

Like iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13, iPhone SE is designed to minimize its impact on the environment. iPhone SE is made with recycled materials, including 100 percent recycled rare earth elements in the Taptic Engine and audio magnets, 100 percent recycled tungsten in the Taptic Engine, and 100 percent recycled tin in the solder of the main logic board. Redesigned packaging eliminates the outer plastic wrap, bringing Apple closer to its goal of completely removing plastic from all packaging by 2025. iPhone SE meets Apple’s high standards for energy efficiency and remains free of numerous harmful substances.

Today, Apple is carbon neutral for global corporate operations, and by 2030, plans to have net-zero climate impact across the entire business, which includes manufacturing supply chains and all product life cycles. This means that every Apple device sold, from component manufacturing, assembly, transport, customer use, charging, all the way through recycling and material recovery, will be 100 percent carbon neutral.

The above excerpt is from Apple’s official Press Release.


TECH NEWS

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The 5G Router That’s Changing Home Internet in South Africa

Fast, Affordable 5G for Every South African HomeTired of buffering during load-shedding or waiting months for fibre installation? The Huawei H155 5G router could be your answer. Compact, affordable, and fast, it’s helping South Africans enjoy fibre-like speeds without the cables or contracts.Thanks to Vodacom and MTN bundles, the H155 has quickly become one of 2025’s most popular home routers. In this review, we explore how it performs in real-world conditions, its setup process, and whether it’s truly the best 5G deal in South Africa right now.Design & Setup: Plug-and-Play PowerThe Huawei H155 sports a clean, modern design a small white cube that blends easily into your home or office setup. Weighing under 500g, it’s also portable enough to take with you when moving or using it as a backup Wi-Fi option during load-shedding.However, it’s worth noting that portability doesn’t guarantee connectivity everywhere. The H155’s performance depends on whether your new location has strong 5G coverage. Before relocating it, always check the Vodacom or MTN 5G coverage maps to ensure you’ll still get high-speed internet.Setting it up takes just minutes:Insert a Vodacom, MTN, or Telkom SIM.Plug it in and open the Huawei Hi-Link app.Configure your Wi-Fi network and you’re done.The H155 supports Wi-Fi 6, allowing up to 128 connected devices and better stability for households full of streamers, gamers, and remote workers.Its 4x4 MIMO antenna ensures solid reception in metro areas, while rural users can tweak the N78 (3.5 GHz) band via the app for optimal 5G performance.ProsQuick setup no technician requiredCompact, stylish, and easy to moveWi-Fi 6 delivers faster, more reliable speedsConsOnly one Ethernet portSome carrier-locked models limit SIM flexibilityPro Tip: Visit 192.168.8.1 to manually adjust 5G bands it can noticeably improve signal strength.Performance: Real Speeds Across South AfricaOn paper, Huawei claims up to 3.6 Gbps downloads and 500 Mbps uploads. In real South African conditions, expect 450–650 Mbps in metro areas on Vodacom or MTN’s 5G networks plenty for 4K streaming, online gaming, and video calls.In optimal areas near 5G towers, users have recorded 1 Gbps+ bursts. Performance naturally varies by coverage, but the H155’s 4G fallback ensures a seamless connection if 5G signal drops.During testing, it handled 10 connected devices smoothly with no lag or disconnections. Power consumption sits at just 12W, making it inverter and UPS-friendly essential during load-shedding sessions.ProsConsistent 5G performance in metro areasSmooth 4G/5G switchingEnergy-efficient for backup power setupsConsSpeed throttling after FUP (around 250 GB)Slight warmth after long usePro Tip: For high-density zones, an external 5G antenna can boost signal by up to 30%.Best Huawei H155 Deals in South Africa (2025)The Huawei H155’s affordability makes it especially appealing. Here’s where to find the best value in 2025:Vodacom 5G Home InternetVodacom bundles the H155 with Home Internet 5G plans, letting you spread payments over 24 months. These offer reliable speeds but throttle after the Fair Usage Policy limit (usually 250 GB).MTN Ultra Home PlansMTN’s Ultra Home packages frequently include the H155 at reduced rates, especially during month-end or holiday promos. MTN offers slightly higher FUP thresholds and expanding 5G coverage.Final Verdict: Who Should Buy the Huawei H155The Huawei H155 is one of South Africa’s best 5G home routers for 2025, but it shines brightest for specific users.Perfect For:Renters and families in metro areasStudents in shared accommodationRemote workers who need stable Wi-Fi during load-sheddingConsider Alternatives If:You use more than 500GB per month, fibre is still better valueYou need multiple Ethernet ports or advanced settingsYou live in a low-coverage or rural areaFinal Score: 4.5 / 5It’s a budget-friendly 5G router that delivers strong speeds, simple setup, and reliable connectivity as long as your area has decent 5G coverage.Conclusion: South Africa’s Smart 5G UpgradeThe Huawei H155 proves you don’t need fibre to enjoy fast, reliable home internet. It’s small, efficient, and performs exceptionally well for its price point making it a top pick for South Africans who want a quick, flexible, and affordable 5G connection.Before buying:Check your 5G coverage with Vodacom or MTNChoose unlocked models for more freedomWatch for promo bundles to maximise savingsWhether you’re binge-watching rugby, working remotely, or surviving another round of load-shedding, the H155 delivers speed, simplicity, and value.FAQsHow fast is the Huawei H155 in South Africa?Expect 450–650 Mbps in metro zones, with bursts over 1 Gbps in tower hotspots. Speeds drop to 50 Mbps after FUP limits.Can I use MTN and Vodacom SIMs interchangeably?Only if the device is unlocked. Carrier-locked units work exclusively on their network.Does it work during load-shedding?Yes. With a 12 W power draw, it’s inverter-friendly and ideal for UPS setups.Is it better than fibre?If you already have fibre, stick with it. But for renters or homes without fibre coverage, the H155 is a powerful plug-and-play alternative.How do I check 5G coverage?Visit:Vodacom Coverage MapMTN Coverage MapReferencesVodacom 5G Home Internet Plans – Official Pricing & BundlesMTN 5G Coverage Map – Network Availability CheckerHuawei H155 Technical Specifications – Huawei Official SiteVodacom Network Coverage Map – Regional 5G AvailabilityMTN Home Internet Plans – Contract and Bundle Options

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Huawei is preparing to make waves again in South Africa with the HUAWEI nova 14i, arriving October 2025. Known for its bold design and focus on power, the nova 14i brings three major upgrades over its predecessor a bigger 7000mAh battery, a larger 6.95-inch FullView display, and the new X Button for effortless access to your favourite apps. Together, they make this nova a statement device that delivers performance, endurance, and convenience in a sleek, affordable package.Big Display, Smooth ExperienceThe HUAWEI nova 14i features a 6.95-inch FHD+ FullView Display, delivering immersive visuals with crisp detail. With a 90Hz refresh rate and 270Hz touch sampling rate, every scroll, tap, and swipe feels fast and fluid. The Eye Protection Mode, E-book Mode, and Smooth Dimming Control adapt brightness intelligently, ensuring comfort whether you’re indoors, outside, or reading at night.Performance and PowerUnder the hood, the nova 14i runs on the Kirin 710A chipset with 8GB RAM and 256GB storage, providing a reliable experience for multitasking, streaming, and gaming. But it’s the battery that truly stands out,the 7000mAh super battery offers exceptional endurance more than 26 hours of video playback, 60 hours of calls, and 16 hours of online browsing on a full charge.And with 22.5W HUAWEI SuperCharge, you’re back up and running in a flash. Combined with intelligent battery management and triple-layer safety protection, the nova 14i is built to power through South Africa’s longest days even during load shedding.Cameras That Capture MoreThe HUAWEI nova 14i features a 50MP AI Dual Camera setup with a 50MP main lens (f/1.8) and a 2MP depth sensor, capturing vibrant photos with realistic depth and clarity. Whether it’s a sunrise hike or a night out, the nova 14i’s Super Night Mode and AI Scene Recognition optimise every shot automatically.On the front, an 8MP AI-powered selfie camera with Beauty Mode enhances natural tones and brightness for sharp, share-ready portraits.Living with EMUI 14.2Running on EMUI 14.2, the nova 14i offers a seamless, customisable experience. New features like Live View, SuperHub, and flexible widget stacking make everyday use smarter and more efficient. The AppGallery continues to expand, offering popular apps like WhatsApp, Instagram, TikTok, and all major South African banking apps easily searchable through Petal Search.The nova 14i connects effortlessly with other HUAWEI devices using Super Device, making file sharing, messaging, and productivity simple across laptops, tablets, and earbuds.Design and BuildThe nova 14i shines with its Iconic Starry Circle design and shimmering sand-textured finish, available in Blue and Black. The curved edges and balanced frame ensure a comfortable hold despite its size. The new X Button sits on the side, allowing one-tap or long-press access to frequently used apps and services whether that’s your camera, flashlight, or emergency contacts.Pricing and Deals in South AfricaThe HUAWEI nova 14i launches in South Africa at a starting price of R5,499, with premium models up to R6,999, depending on storage and network options. Major carriers will offer contract plans starting from R329 per month over 36 months.As part of launch promotions, customers can enjoy 1 Year HUAWEI Care+ and exclusive introductory bundles, including accessories and limited-time value-added services.The HUAWEI nova 14i: BIGGEST BATTERY. BIGGEST SCREEN. BIGGEST statement, Go BIGGER, Stay BOLDER, Perform Further.Who Should Buy the HUAWEI nova 14i?The nova 14i is ideal for:Power users who value long battery life and fast charging.Social media creators who need an affordable phone with great cameras.Students and professionals who want a big screen for multitasking and entertainment.Anyone looking for flagship-style performance without the flagship price.If you rely heavily on Google apps, you can still access most services via your browser or through Petal Search alternatives EMUI 14.2 makes the adjustment easy.Final VerdictThe HUAWEI nova 14i redefines what a mid-range smartphone can offer. With its 7000mAh battery, massive 6.95-inch display, and the intuitive X Button, it’s designed for those who want to go further and do more. Stylish, durable, and efficient, the nova 14i brings flagship-level experiences to the everyday user proving that big really is better.FAQsDoes the HUAWEI nova 14i support Google apps?No, the nova 14i runs on EMUI 14.2 without Google Mobile Services. However, most popular apps are available via AppGallery or Petal Search, and Google services can still be accessed through the browser.How much will the nova 14i cost in South Africa?It will retail between R5,499 and R6,999, depending on configuration and carrier deals.What is the battery life like?The nova 14i features a 7000mAh super battery, providing over 26 hours of video playback, 60 hours of calls, and multi-day endurance with 22.5W SuperCharge.What are the available colours?The nova 14i comes in Blue and Black, both featuring the Iconic Starry Circle design.Are there any launch deals?Yes, Huawei is offering introductory bundles with HUAWEI Care+ and bonus accessories for early buyers.Where can I buy it?You can purchase the nova 14i through MondoReferencesHUAWEI nova 14i Official PageHUAWEI EMUI 14.2 OverviewHUAWEI AppGalleryMondo

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Affordable Smart Home Devices: Reliable 5G WiFi for Your SA Home

Discover affordable smart home devices like the ZTE MC801A router for SA homes, pair with MTN Shesha capped (from R269) or Vodacom deals for reliable 5G WiFi. Save big on Mondo.co.zaWelcome to Smarter Living, Made SimplePicture this: uninterrupted streaming of your favourite shows during load shedding, controlling your lights from your phone, and keeping an eye on your property from anywhere all without blowing your budget.For many South African families, smart home devices aren’t a luxury anymore they’re a lifeline. With 5G rolling out across major cities and data packages getting sharper on price, it’s easier than ever to create a connected home that works for you. Whether you’re working remotely or streaming with the kids, pairing the right router with the right data package can change your day-to-day life.This guide walks you through the best affordable smart home devices for South African homes, focusing on connectivity solutions that won’t cost the earth.Why South Africans Are Turning to Smart HomesSmart homes in South Africa are booming adoption is growing 18% annually. And it’s not just about cool gadgets. It’s about practical solutions: keeping security systems online during power cuts, managing energy costs, and staying connected when networks are congested.South Africans want devices that solve real problems, like:Backup connectivity during Eskom outagesAffordable security systems independent of municipal servicesReliable streaming and work calls despite network pressureThe good news? Affordable 5G routers and capped data packages are finally hitting that sweet spot.Start Small and Save BigYou don’t have to spend a fortune to create a smart home. Begin with a reliable 5G router (R800–R2,000) and one or two smart devices like WiFi-enabled lights or cameras. In many cases, that initial investment of around R1,500 instantly transforms your home experience.Before you buy, check MTN or Vodacom’s coverage maps to ensure 5G is available where you live. If it’s not yet there, LTE options can still deliver solid performance.The Best Budget-Friendly 5G RoutersWe’ve tested the most popular routers across SA conditions load shedding, peak-hour congestion, and rural coverage to find the standouts:ZTE MC801A – Urban speed demon with up to 64 WiFi connections. Ideal for MTN’s 5G network.ZTE MC888 – WiFi 6 powerhouse with strong suburban coverage.ZTE MF286R  – Vodacom-optimised, seamless LTE/5G switching.Tozed ZLT M30S – Entry-level 4G/5G router for small budgets.Huawei E5783 – Portable flexibility; doubles as a hotspot.These routers consistently outperform others thanks to antenna designs tuned for local network frequencies critical for our sometimes-patchy coverage.Data Deals That Make SenseMTN Shesha Packages:Shesh@ 200 – 200GB of high-speed data. Perfect for singles or couples testing 5G.Shesh@ 600 – 600GB split between full-speed and reduced-speed data. Ideal for families.Vodacom Home Internet Options:5G 600GB @30Mbps – Router rental included stable but capped speeds.1TB @50Mbps – High data allowance for heavy users.LTE Starter – 100GB LTE for areas without 5G.Why Shop Through Mondo.co.za?Mondo’s platform does the hard work for you. Compare packages, check coverage, and score exclusive bundles at prices 15–20% lower than retail.Example Deals:MTN Shesh@ 600 + Tozed ZLT M30S: R499/month (R100 off)Vodacom 1TB + ZTE MC801A: R699/month with free delivery (R150 off)By pairing the right router with the right package, you can save hundreds of rands a year and enjoy faster, more reliable connectivity at home.Setup Made EasySetting up your new router is simple:1. Insert your SIM before powering up.2. Connect via WiFi using the default details on your router.3. Access the router dashboard to tweak settings and update firmware.4. Place your router centrally for the best signal.Pro Tips:Add external antennas to boost signal by up to 30% (R200–R400).Schedule big downloads at off-peak times.Set usage alerts to avoid throttling.Build Out Your Smart HomeOnce your internet’s rock solid, it’s easy to layer on affordable smart devices:Lighting: WiFi-enabled LED bulbs (R150–R300 each)Security: Cameras & motion sensors (R500–R1,200)Energy Control: Smart plugs (R100–R250)Most of these use minimal data (1–2GB per month), except for security cameras (30–50GB each per month). Even with a full setup, you’ll still fit comfortably into 200–600GB monthly packages.Final VerdictAffordable smart home devices combined with MTN Shesha or Vodacom Home packages can make a massive difference to your everyday life.Key Takeaways:Start with MTN’s R269 Shesh@ 200 if you’re testing the waters.Invest in a 5G-capable router for futureproofing.Check Mondo.co.za regularly for bundle savings and coverage info.Position your router well and consider external antennas for max performance.South Africa’s connectivity challenges don’t have to hold you back. With the right mix of devices and deals, you can keep your home smart, secure, and connected without overspending.FAQsDo 5G routers work during load shedding?5G routers need power to operate, so they won’t function during outages unless paired with backup power. Consider a UPS or power bank (R500–R1,500) to keep your router running for 4–6 hours.How much data do smart home devices use?Smart lighting and plugs typically use 1–2GB monthly, climate sensors under 1GB, and security cameras 30–50GB each per month. Most households stay comfortably within 200–600GB allocations.Which router is best for rural areas?If 5G coverage is limited, look for LTE-capable routers with strong antenna performance like the ZTE MF286R or Tozed ZLT M30S, and consider adding an external antenna to boost your signal.What’s the benefit of buying through Mondo.co.za?You’ll get exclusive bundle pricing often 15–20% cheaper, plus tools to compare packages and check coverage before you buy.ReferencesMTN Shesha Packages - https://mtn.co.za/packages/sheshaVodacom Home Internet - https://vodacom.co.za/personal/home-internetMondo Deals - https://mondo.co.za/dealsReddit South Africa - https://reddit.com/r/southafricaSmart Home Market Report – IoT Analytics - https://iotanalytics.com/smart-home-market-reportSmart Home Market – Statista - https://statista.com/outlook/smart-home-market

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