The mouse forms part of Logitech’s MX productivity range and received its Mac-focused treatment as part of a wider expansion of the company’s Apple-oriented peripherals in 2024. Logitech introduced the MX Anywhere 3S for Mac globally in May 2024 with a US launch price of $79.99.

TechnologyBlog.co.za has not tested the MX Anywhere 3S for Mac. This article therefore focuses on its verified specifications and features rather than providing a performance review.

8,000 DPI tracking works on more than a desk

One of the MX Anywhere 3S for Mac’s headline specifications is its Darkfield sensor, which supports sensitivity settings up to 8,000 DPI. Logitech also rates the mouse for tracking on surfaces including glass.

The 8,000 DPI figure should not be confused with an “8K” display resolution. In this context, DPI describes mouse sensitivity. A higher setting lets the pointer travel further across the screen for a smaller physical movement of the mouse, which can be particularly useful with high-resolution or multiple displays.

Logitech configures the MX Anywhere 3S at 1,000 DPI by default. Users can extend its sensitivity to as much as 8,000 DPI through the Logi Options+ software.

The ability to track on glass is also relevant to the mouse’s portable positioning. Travellers and hybrid workers may not always have access to a conventional desk or mouse mat.

MagSpeed wheel switches between precise and fast scrolling

The MX Anywhere 3S for Mac uses Logitech’s MagSpeed scroll wheel. It supports line-by-line ratchet scrolling for precise navigation as well as a free-spinning mode for moving quickly through long documents, spreadsheets and web pages.

Logitech rates the wheel for scrolling as many as 1,000 lines per second. Users can switch scrolling modes manually, while Logi Options+ provides additional control over the wheel’s behaviour.

Horizontal scrolling is also available by holding a side button while turning the wheel. That can be useful when working with wide spreadsheets, editing timelines or navigating large documents.

Quiet clicks are one of the main 3S upgrades

Logitech added its Quiet Click technology to the MX Anywhere 3S generation. The company describes the design as producing less click noise while retaining tactile feedback.

That change distinguishes the 3S from the older MX Anywhere 3 alongside the move from a 4,000 DPI sensor to an 8,000 DPI unit. Logitech lists these quieter switches and the higher-resolution sensor among the main differences between the two generations.

Reduced click noise may be useful in shared offices, libraries and video meetings, although TechnologyBlog.co.za has not independently measured the mouse’s noise output.

Built around Macs and iPads

The Mac edition differs from the standard MX Anywhere 3S mainly through its Apple-focused positioning and software configuration.

Logitech provides Mac-specific customisation through Logi Options+ and offers finishes intended to complement Apple hardware. The South African product page lists Space Gray, while Logitech also markets a Pale Grey version internationally.

The mouse can pair with up to three Apple devices running macOS or iPadOS using Bluetooth Low Energy. An Easy-Switch button on the underside changes between paired devices.

This makes the mouse particularly relevant to someone who works on, for example, a MacBook during the day and an iPad at another desk.

Logi Options+ adds deeper configuration. Users can alter tracking speed, reassign buttons and set different functions for individual applications. Logitech provides examples including meeting controls for Zoom and Teams, navigation commands in browsers and undo or redo functions in productivity and creative software.

Logitech Flow can also move the cursor between compatible computers and supports copying and pasting content between them when Options+ is installed on both systems.

USB-C charging and up to 70 days of battery life

The MX Anywhere 3S contains a rechargeable battery and charges through USB-C.

Logitech rates it for up to 70 days of use from a full charge, although actual endurance depends on usage and operating conditions. Its support documentation also states that a short charge can provide enough power for substantial additional use.

The ability to continue using the mouse while it charges reduces the inconvenience of a depleted battery, particularly for people carrying it between home, office and client sites.

Retail listings for the Mac model specify a USB-C-to-USB-C charging cable and documentation in the package.

Logitech MX Anywhere 3S for Mac specifications

Specifications are based primarily on Logitech’s product and support documentation. Battery life is a manufacturer rating and will vary with use.

MX Anywhere 3S for Mac versus the standard MX Anywhere 3S

Buyers should pay attention to the wording of the product name because Logitech also sells a standard MX Anywhere 3S.

The core hardware features overlap heavily. Both versions use an 8,000 DPI sensor, MagSpeed scrolling and quiet clicks. However, Logitech positions the standard model as a multi-platform mouse supporting Windows, macOS, ChromeOS and Linux, while the Mac version concentrates on Bluetooth connectivity to Apple hardware and Mac-specific Logi Options+ customisation.

The regular MX Anywhere 3S is also compatible with Logitech’s Logi Bolt USB receiver, although Logitech does not include that receiver with the standard consumer model.

For someone who works exclusively within the Apple ecosystem, the Mac edition therefore offers the more targeted package. Users who regularly move between Windows, Linux and macOS machines should compare the two versions carefully before buying.

The post Logitech MX Anywhere 3S for Mac brings 8,000 DPI tracking and quiet clicks to Apple users appeared first on Technology Blog.

The headset remains part of HP Poly’s South African range, although it now sits alongside the newer HP Poly Focus 6 Series. That makes the Voyager Focus 2 an established rather than latest-generation option for businesses and hybrid workers looking for a wireless communications headset.

TechnologyBlog.co.za has not tested the Poly Voyager Focus 2. This article therefore focuses on its verified specifications and features rather than providing a performance or comfort review.

Three levels of active noise cancellation

The Voyager Focus 2 uses hybrid active noise cancellation with three selectable settings: high, low and off. This is designed to reduce the amount of surrounding noise reaching the wearer during calls, meetings and media playback.

That should not be confused with the headset’s microphone noise reduction. HP Poly also uses its Acoustic Fence technology to reduce background sound transmitted to people on the other end of a call. HP describes the system as using multiple microphones to focus on the wearer’s voice.

The current USB-C configuration lists six microphones in total, while the headset uses 32mm drivers with a stated speaker frequency range of 20Hz to 20kHz. Its microphone bandwidth is rated at 100Hz to 6.8kHz.

Those specifications position the Focus 2 primarily as a communications headset rather than a conventional pair of consumer Bluetooth headphones.

Bluetooth 5.1 and a BT700 adapter

The Voyager Focus 2 uses Bluetooth 5.1 and can remember up to eight paired devices. HP lists support for the A2DP, AVRCP, HFP and HSP Bluetooth profiles.

For computers, selected packages include HP Poly’s BT700 USB Bluetooth adapter. The 9T9J3AA configuration includes a USB-C BT700 adapter together with a USB-C-to-USB-A adapter, allowing it to work with computers offering either connector type. Smartphones can connect directly over Bluetooth.

HP rates the normal wireless range at up to 50 metres under suitable conditions. A Voyager Office base can extend the specified range to as much as 91 metres, although the office base is a separate configuration rather than a standard accessory with every Focus 2 package.

The headset supports Windows 10, Windows 11, macOS, Android and iOS in HP’s current specifications.

Battery life depends heavily on ANC settings

Battery figures require some context because the highest quoted number depends on several features being disabled.

HP rates the Voyager Focus 2 for up to 25 hours of talk time with both ANC and the online indicator switched off. With ANC and the online indicator enabled under HP’s default configuration, the rating falls to up to 16 hours.

For music playback, HP lists up to 40 hours with ANC disabled or up to 24 hours with ANC enabled. Charging takes less than two hours according to the current product specifications.

The headset can also carry audio over its USB connection while plugged in. This provides a useful fallback when the battery runs down during a working day.

Smart sensors and mute controls target frequent callers

HP Poly equips the Focus 2 with sensors that can automate common call and media actions. The headset can respond when the user puts it on or removes it, while its microphone boom can maintain the correct left and right stereo orientation regardless of which side the boom is worn.

Physical controls cover call answer and end, mute, volume, ANC level, power and Bluetooth pairing. Voice notifications provide information such as mute status, connection status and low-battery warnings.

A Dynamic Mute Alert can also warn the wearer when they start speaking while muted. Online indicator lights provide a visual cue to nearby colleagues that the headset is being used for a call.

These features matter most in shared offices and call-heavy working environments, where repeatedly checking mute status or removing a headset between conversations can become disruptive.

Teams, Zoom and Google Meet support

HP lists the Voyager Focus 2 as compatible with major collaboration platforms, with variants available for Microsoft Teams as well as standard UC configurations. The product is also certified for Zoom and designed to work with Google Meet.

Buyers should therefore check the complete product number rather than relying only on the Voyager Focus 2 name. Different packages can include different USB adapters, Microsoft Teams certification or a desktop charging stand.

For example, HP identifies 9T9J3AA as the USB-C headset package with a BT700 USB-C adapter, USB-C-to-USB-A adapter and carrying pouch. The 9T9J6AA package adds Microsoft Teams certification and a charging stand.

Poly Voyager Focus 2 specifications

Specifications above are based on HP’s current 9T9J3AA product information. Package contents and certification can differ between Voyager Focus 2 variants.

The newer Focus 6 Series changes the buying decision

The Voyager Focus 2 is no longer the newest headset in this part of HP Poly’s range. HP announced the Focus 6 Series in 2026 and currently lists it alongside the Voyager Focus 2 in South Africa.

The newer Focus 6 introduces Acoustic Fence 2.0, four noise-cancelling microphones, Bluetooth 5.4 on current specifications, newer ergonomic designs and up to 25 hours of talk time with ANC and the online indicator enabled. HP also offers foldable Focus 6 variants.

That does not automatically make the Voyager Focus 2 a poor choice. Its local pricing may make it attractive for businesses that need a proven Teams-capable headset with ANC, a boom microphone, multipoint Bluetooth connectivity and an optional charging stand.

However, organisations planning a large new deployment should compare the Focus 2 directly with the Focus 6 before committing. The newer series provides updated connectivity and noise-reduction technology, while discounted Focus 2 stock may offer better value where those improvements are not essential.

The post HP Poly Voyager Focus 2 combines hybrid ANC with business-focused Bluetooth calling appeared first on Technology Blog.

The range includes both mono and dual-ear versions, while Yealink offers separate Teams and unified communications configurations. Its wired design also removes the battery management and charging requirements that come with Bluetooth or DECT headsets, although users give up the freedom to move away from their desks during calls.

TechnologyBlog.co.za has not tested the Yealink UH42. This article therefore focuses on its verified specifications and features rather than providing a performance or comfort review.

Yealink UH42 uses a single noise-cancelling microphone

The UH42 uses one microphone with a frequency response of 100Hz to 14kHz. Yealink combines it with its Acoustic Shield technology and describes the headset as using AI-based noise cancellation to suppress background noise during calls.

Yealink specifically identifies Acoustic Shield 3.0 as the voice-isolation technology behind the headset. That could be useful in shared offices and home-working environments where keyboard noise and nearby conversations can interfere with calls, but TechnologyBlog.co.za has not independently tested how effectively the system performs in those conditions.

The microphone sits on a boom that can rotate through 300 degrees. This allows the boom to move between sides, so workers do not have to keep the microphone on the same side of their face throughout the day.

35mm speakers cover calls and music

Each UH42 earpiece uses a 35mm speaker. Yealink specifies a speaker frequency response of 20Hz to 20kHz, with music bandwidth covering the same range and talk mode listed at 100Hz to 20kHz.

That specification makes the UH42 more than a basic voice-only telephone headset on paper. Workers can use the same device for meetings, calls and general computer audio rather than swapping between separate headsets during the working day.

Yealink also lists user hearing protection among the UH42’s audio features. This matters particularly for employees who spend long periods handling calls, although businesses should still manage workplace listening levels appropriately rather than relying on the headset alone.

USB-C connection includes a USB-A adapter

The UH42 connects through USB-C and includes a USB-A adapter. This gives businesses more flexibility when deploying the headset across a mix of newer notebooks with USB-C and older desktops that still rely mainly on USB-A.

Yealink specifies a 0.65m cable between the headset and its call-control unit, followed by a 1.5m cable from the controller to the USB connector. The in-line controller provides access to call handling, volume and microphone mute functions.

The wired connection is an important distinction from Yealink’s wireless office headsets. There is no battery to charge, and a USB connection avoids Bluetooth pairing, but employees cannot walk around the office while remaining connected to their computers.

Yealink sells Teams, UC and mono versions

Yealink lists three principal UH42 part numbers. The 1308195 is the UH42 Dual Teams USB-C/A, while 1308215 identifies the UH42 Dual UC USB-C/A. The 1308240 is the mono USB-C/A version.

The dual version weighs 160g, while the mono headset comes in at 116g. Both use an on-ear design.

Businesses should therefore check the exact SKU rather than ordering on the UH42 name alone. A company standardising on Microsoft Teams, for example, should ensure that it is buying the appropriate Teams configuration rather than assuming every UH42 listing represents the same model.

Designed for long periods at a desk

Yealink uses soft memory-foam ear cushions, rotating oval earcups and a contoured headband on the UH42. The company says it developed the headset around biometric head data to distribute clamping pressure more evenly.

The ear cushions are also replaceable. That is a useful consideration for organisations deploying large headset fleets because worn cushions can be replaced instead of requiring the entire headset to be discarded.

Comfort remains subjective, however. Head shape, glasses and the duration of each call can all influence how an on-ear headset feels over a full working day, so specifications alone cannot establish whether the UH42 will suit every employee.

Yealink UH42 specifications

Yealink also lists compatibility with more than 100 platforms and operating systems and provides management through Yealink USB Connect on PCs and its Yealink Management Cloud Service. These tools can become more relevant for IT departments responsible for configuring and maintaining larger deployments.

A straightforward option for fixed desks

The UH42 makes the most sense for workers who spend most calls at a computer and value a straightforward wired connection over wireless mobility. USB-C connectivity with a USB-A adapter should also make it easier to use across mixed fleets of older and newer PCs.

Its 35mm speakers, replaceable cushions, in-line controls and Yealink management support strengthen its business focus. The main trade-off remains inherent to the design: employees who need to leave their desks while staying on a call will need to look at Bluetooth or DECT alternatives instead.

The post Yealink UH42 brings AI noise cancellation and USB-C/A connectivity to office calls appeared first on Technology Blog.

The phone forms part of Yealink’s newer T7 series and targets general business users rather than functioning as a basic two-line desk phone. South African buyers can already find the SIP-T73W through local retailers, although prices vary between suppliers.

TechnologyBlog.co.za has not tested the Yealink SIP-T73W. This article therefore focuses on its verified specifications, connectivity and practical deployment considerations rather than providing a performance review.

Built-in Wi-Fi 6 gives offices more installation options

One of the SIP-T73W’s most useful features is its built-in dual-band Wi-Fi 6 connection, which supports both 2.4GHz and 5GHz networks. Bluetooth 5.0 is also integrated, allowing compatible Bluetooth headsets and other supported devices to connect without requiring a separate wireless module.

Wired networking remains available through two Gigabit Ethernet ports. This arrangement can be particularly useful at a conventional office desk because one network connection can serve the phone while the second Ethernet port can provide connectivity to another nearby device, such as a PC.

The phone also supports Power over Ethernet. A compatible PoE network switch can therefore carry network traffic and power over the same Ethernet cable, reducing the number of power adapters required around office desks. Switch Telecom separately lists a 5V/2A power adapter as included when customers buy the handset directly from it, so buyers should check what their chosen supplier includes in the box.

Up to 12 SIP accounts and 40 programmable functions

The SIP-T73W supports up to 12 SIP accounts. That makes it suitable for users who need several extensions, identities or VoIP services registered on one handset, although the exact configuration will depend on the organisation’s PBX or hosted VoIP platform.

Eight physical line keys can provide as many as 40 programmable functions across five pages. Standard calling functions include hold, forwarding, call waiting, transfer, redial, auto-answer and direct IP calling.

Businesses that need substantially more programmable keys can add Yealink EXP55 colour-screen expansion modules. The T73W supports up to three EXP55 units, which could make the phone more practical for receptionists, switchboard operators and other staff managing large numbers of extensions. The expansion modules are optional accessories rather than part of the standard phone.

2.8-inch colour display keeps the phone compact

Yealink equips the T73W with a 2.8-inch 320 × 240-pixel colour screen with a backlight. The stand supports two adjustable viewing angles, while the user interface includes icons, soft keys, call and message notifications, and light and dark display themes.

The display is considerably smaller than the large touchscreens found on premium executive IP phones. That distinction matters for buyers: the T73W concentrates on conventional desk-phone controls and business calling rather than trying to behave like a tablet-style communications terminal.

Yealink also provides a 3W speaker and its Acoustic Shield and Smart Noise Filtering features. These are intended to reduce distracting background noise during calls, although TechnologyBlog.co.za has not independently tested their effectiveness in a busy office.

USB and headset support

A USB 2.0 port expands the T73W beyond its built-in Bluetooth connectivity. Yealink lists support for USB headsets, USB recording, its EHS40 wireless-headset adapter and the EXP55 expansion module through the USB interface. Separate RJ9 connections are provided for the handset and a wired headset.

This gives businesses several headset options. Users can choose traditional wired models, compatible USB headsets or supported Bluetooth devices depending on their work environment.

Security features target managed business deployments

Yealink’s T7 series introduces several security mechanisms that are relevant when phones connect to corporate networks. The company lists secure boot, firmware protection, a Trusted Execution Environment, 802.1X authentication, WPA3 wireless security, TLS 1.3 and SRTP media protection among the T73W’s security capabilities.

Those features do not make a VoIP deployment automatically secure. Administrators still need to configure the phone, PBX, network, user credentials and remote-management systems correctly. Firmware maintenance and network access controls also remain important.

Yealink SIP-T73W specifications

Specifications are based on Yealink documentation and current South African retailer listings.

How the T73W differs from the T73U

Yealink sells both SIP-T73W and SIP-T73U models in the same T7 family. They share the 2.8-inch display and much of the same business-phone design, but wireless connectivity is an important distinction.

The T73W integrates Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0. Yealink’s documentation for the T73U instead lists Wi-Fi connectivity through the optional WF50 adapter and references USB Bluetooth accessories. For businesses planning wireless installations or Bluetooth-headset deployments, the T73W therefore removes the need for some additional dongles.

What South African businesses should check before buying

The SIP-T73W is not a replacement for a complete telephone service. Businesses still need a compatible SIP-based hosted VoIP service or IP PBX, network connectivity and the necessary configuration before the handset can make normal business calls.

Power resilience also deserves attention in South Africa. PoE can simplify backup power because the phone can draw electricity from a UPS-backed network switch. However, keeping the handset powered achieves little if the router, fibre ONT, network switch or VoIP service loses connectivity during a power outage.

For buyers who need a conventional business desk phone with multiple SIP accounts, Gigabit Ethernet, integrated Wi-Fi and Bluetooth headset support, the T73W covers considerably more connectivity than a basic VoIP handset. Its smaller 2.8-inch display keeps it firmly in traditional desk-phone territory, while the optional EXP55 modules provide an upgrade path for staff who need many programmable extension or call-management keys.

The post Yealink SIP-T73W brings Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0 to a 12-account business desk phone appeared first on Technology Blog.

The South African model combines DoorCooling+, LINEARCooling, Multi Air Flow, Total No Frost, Fresh Converter and a Smart Inverter Compressor. It is currently selling through South African retailers for around R13,000 to R14,800, depending on the retailer and promotion.

The appliance measures 632mm wide, 1,773mm high and 747mm deep, with a listed net weight of 61kg.

For households replacing an older top-freezer refrigerator, the bottom-freezer configuration is one of the most practical changes.

The freezer moves down

The GN-F389FQDM uses a bottom-freezer layout rather than putting the freezer compartment at the top.

That means the main refrigerator compartment sits at a more convenient height for accessing commonly used food and drinks. The freezer drawers are positioned underneath.

It is a relatively simple design decision, but one that can make a difference for households that open the refrigerator several times a day.

The 331-litre capacity also puts the LG in the middle of the household refrigerator market. It is substantially larger than compact combination refrigerators, while remaining considerably smaller than LG’s large side-by-side and French-door models.

DoorCooling+ distributes cold air towards the door

One of LG’s main technologies in the GN-F389FQDM is DoorCooling+.

The system directs cooling air towards the door area, where temperatures can fluctuate when the door is opened regularly.

LG says its DoorCooling+ testing showed a faster reduction in temperature in the top door basket compared with a non-DoorCooling+ model. The company notes that this was based on an internal testing method and UL test results comparing specific LG models.

That qualification matters.

The result is not a universal guarantee that every food item will cool faster in every household. Actual refrigerator performance depends on factors including ambient temperature, loading, door openings and temperature settings.

Still, directing cold air towards one of the warmer areas of a refrigerator is a sensible approach to managing temperature distribution.

LINEARCooling is designed to reduce temperature fluctuations

The GN-F389FQDM also incorporates LINEARCooling.

LG says the system is designed to reduce temperature fluctuations in the fresh-food compartment. The company cites an average peak-to-peak temperature fluctuation of ±0.5°C in its comparison testing, although the results came from specific LG models under controlled conditions rather than this model being independently tested by TechnologyBlog.

Temperature stability matters because refrigeration is not simply about reaching a cold temperature.

Repeated temperature changes can affect the condition and storage life of fresh food. Keeping temperatures more consistent is therefore a useful goal for a household refrigerator.

Total No Frost removes manual defrosting

The refrigerator uses Total No Frost with Multi Air Flow.

LG says cold air is circulated through the refrigerator to maintain cooling throughout the compartments and eliminate the need for manual frost removal.

For consumers, this is one of the less glamorous but more practical features.

Older refrigerators that require manual defrosting can accumulate ice in the freezer, reducing usable space and requiring periodic maintenance. A No Frost system removes that particular chore.

Fresh Converter gives different foods their own temperature settings

The refrigerator includes LG’s Fresh Converter system.

The idea is to allow users to select an appropriate temperature setting depending on what is being stored. LG lists the feature among the refrigerator’s key technologies, while local retailer specifications also identify Fresh Converter and Fresh Balancer as part of the storage system.

This is particularly useful for households that regularly store different types of fresh food rather than treating the entire refrigerator compartment as a single temperature zone.

The Fresh Balancer system is designed around humidity management for fruit and vegetables, according to the retailer’s product information.

A Smart Inverter Compressor sits at the heart of the system

LG uses a Smart Inverter Compressor in the GN-F389FQDM.

Inverter compressors can vary their operating speed rather than simply switching between full power and being off. LG positions the technology as a way of delivering efficient and quieter refrigerator operation.

For South African households, compressor efficiency can be particularly relevant because a refrigerator operates continuously.

However, consumers should not assume that the word “inverter” automatically means a specific amount of electricity will be saved. Actual energy consumption depends on the refrigerator’s efficiency, ambient temperature, usage patterns, loading and temperature settings.

The black finish gives it a more modern appearance

The GN-F389FQDM uses a black finish with a flat-door design and pocket handle.

The overall design is relatively understated compared with LG’s premium refrigerators featuring large glass panels, InstaView technology or multi-door configurations.

That can be an advantage for consumers who want a modern-looking appliance without moving into the much more expensive premium refrigerator segment.

The refrigerator also uses a Zero Clearance design. LG says a minimum 4mm side clearance is required for proper door operation and warns that insufficient clearance can prevent the door from opening fully or affect product performance.

That specification is worth checking before purchasing, particularly in kitchens where refrigerators are installed tightly between cabinets.

The key specifications

Specifications are based on LG South Africa and South African retailer listings.

South African pricing starts at about R13,000

The GN-F389FQDM is available through South African retailers, although prices differ.

At the time of checking, Hirsch’s lists the refrigerator at R12,999.99, reduced from R14,799.99.

Metro Home Centre also lists the model at R12,999, reduced from R14,999.

MHC World lists it at R14,799, reduced from R16,299, and indicates stock availability.

That gives prospective buyers a useful local price range of approximately R13,000 to R14,800 based on the retailers checked.

These are retailer prices rather than a single fixed LG South African retail price. LG itself warns that prices, promotions and availability can vary between stores and online.

The warranty is worth understanding

LG South Africa lists a two-year parts and labour warranty for the refrigerator.

The company also specifies an additional three years of parts-only warranty for the sealed refrigeration system and an additional five years of parts-only warranty for the compressor.

This is an important distinction when comparing appliance warranties.

The additional compressor coverage should not be interpreted as an additional five years of complete appliance coverage. LG specifically describes the additional periods as parts-only coverage.

Is 331 litres enough?

Capacity is one of the most important considerations when buying a refrigerator, and 331 litres will not suit every household.

For a couple or smaller family, the capacity should provide considerably more storage than a compact refrigerator without requiring the physical space or purchase price of a large side-by-side appliance.

Larger households may find the capacity limiting, particularly if they buy groceries in bulk or frequently store large containers.

The bottom-freezer arrangement also means that buyers should consider how they use frozen food. Households that access the freezer frequently may prefer a different configuration, while those who spend more time in the refrigerator compartment could find the lower freezer more convenient.

The LG GN-F389FQDM is about practical rather than flashy technology

The GN-F389FQDM does not attempt to compete with LG’s premium refrigerators through huge capacities, glass doors or advanced connected features.

Its approach is more straightforward.

The refrigerator combines several technologies aimed at temperature stability, airflow, food storage and reduced maintenance with a conventional bottom-freezer design.

That makes the GN-F389FQDM potentially more interesting to buyers who want useful refrigeration technology without paying for features they may rarely use.

At around R13,000 on current promotional pricing, it sits above many entry-level combination refrigerators but below LG’s much larger premium models.

Is LG’s 331L bottom-freezer worth considering?

The GN-F389FQDM makes a reasonable case for itself if a household wants a mid-sized bottom-freezer refrigerator with modern cooling technology.

Its 331-litre capacity, Total No Frost system, DoorCooling+, LINEARCooling and Smart Inverter Compressor give it a well-rounded specification. The Fresh Converter and humidity-management features add useful storage flexibility.

The biggest consideration is not whether it has enough technology.

It is whether 331 litres is enough for the household and whether the current price represents good value compared with competing refrigerators in the same capacity range.

At around R12,999 on current promotions, the LG is more compelling than it would be at the higher end of its listed price range.

For South African households looking for a conventional refrigerator with the freezer at the bottom, no manual defrosting and several temperature-management features, the GN-F389FQDM is a model worth putting on the shortlist.

As with any major appliance purchase, buyers should confirm the final price, delivery terms, dimensions and warranty conditions with the retailer before ordering.

The post LG’s 331L bottom-freezer fridge targets South African homes with smarter cooling appeared first on Technology Blog.

Published by Daybreak Game Company, the sequel retains the third-person PvE shooter structure of the 2021 original but increases the squad size from three to four players. It also adds new classes, a customisable Specialist class, additional Xenomorph types, deeper weapon customisation and an expanded Horde mode.

For South African gamers, the most important consideration will be that this is fundamentally a co-op shooter. The PC version requires a broadband internet connection, while the game supports cross-platform co-op between its supported platforms.

Four Marines instead of three

The biggest structural change from the original Fireteam Elite is the addition of a fourth player.

The first game built its missions around three-player squads. Fireteam Elite 2 increases that to four, allowing teams to combine more classes and abilities when facing increasingly large Xenomorph attacks.

The developer says the larger squad is accompanied by deeper team-based mechanics designed to reward coordination and strategic class combinations.

That matters because the game is not simply increasing the number of enemies to compensate for another player.

The intention is to make squad composition itself part of the strategy.

One team might prioritise damage output, another crowd control, while another combination could focus on support and survival.

Five classes and a customisable Specialist

Aliens: Fireteam Elite 2 launches with five core classes, each providing a different approach to combat. The game then adds the Specialist as an endgame class designed around customisation.

The Specialist allows players to mix and match major and minor abilities from the available classes.

That creates a different progression model from simply levelling a fixed class.

Instead, players can develop a Marine around the particular role their squad needs.

If a team is missing a particular capability, the Specialist can potentially be configured to fill that gap.

This could also make repeat playthroughs more flexible, particularly for players who regularly play with the same group.

The Xenomorphs are getting more dangerous

The Xenomorph threat has also been expanded.

The developers say Fireteam Elite 2 includes a large variety of new Xenomorphs alongside returning enemies. Their behaviour is intended to force players to stay mobile, maintain awareness and adapt to changing situations.

That is important for a game built around overwhelming enemy numbers.

The danger isn’t necessarily a single powerful enemy.

A squad can be overwhelmed when too many threats arrive simultaneously, particularly if players lose their formation or run out of suitable ammunition.

The game therefore encourages players to understand what tools work against particular enemies rather than simply firing continuously.

Elemental ammunition changes the firefights

Players will have access to additional combat options, including pyro and electric ammunition.

The developer also highlights a stun baton for close-range combat when Xenomorphs get too close.

The game’s official community information adds another layer to this system.

Fire can burn Xenomorphs, while cryogenic effects can freeze them, allowing follow-up attacks to cause additional damage. Electrical attacks have different uses against synthetic enemies.

That gives the combat system a more tactical element than simply choosing the weapon with the highest damage output.

Knowing which damage type to use against a particular enemy could become important when a squad is surrounded.

Weapons can be customised more extensively

Weapon customisation is another area receiving an upgrade.

The sequel adds fire modes, Augments and unique Weapon Traits, allowing players to tailor individual weapons around their preferred playstyle.

The Steam listing also highlights expanded weapon and gear customisation.

This should give players more control over how their Marine develops rather than locking the effectiveness of a weapon to a single predetermined configuration.

For a game expected to be played repeatedly with different squad compositions, that flexibility could be important.

Horde mode gets its own maps

The sequel launches with multiple dedicated Horde maps.

Instead of progressing through a conventional campaign mission, players must survive increasingly difficult waves of Xenomorphs and other enemies. Surviving longer provides increasingly valuable rewards.

Horde mode should therefore provide a different type of challenge from the game’s regular missions.

It also gives players a reason to continue experimenting with classes, weapons and squad combinations after completing the campaign content.

The official website describes the mode as an updated Horde experience designed to provide additional challenges and rewards.

Cross-platform co-op matters

One of the more useful features for South African players is cross-platform co-op.

The official website confirms that players can squad up across platforms, with cross-platform voice chat also being added.

That means a PC player does not necessarily need three other PC players to form a full squad.

A South African player on Steam could potentially play alongside friends on PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X|S, provided the relevant cross-platform functionality is available in the final release as advertised.

This is particularly useful for a co-op game because the size of the available player pool can directly affect how easy it is to assemble a squad.

What South African gamers should know

There is currently no confirmed South African server information in the sources checked.

That does not mean South African players cannot play the game.

It means we should not claim that the game will have good or bad local latency without actual testing or confirmed regional server information.

The PC version explicitly requires a broadband internet connection, and the game’s online co-op functionality makes connection quality relevant.

For South African players with stable broadband, the more useful question will be how the connection performs to the actual server region used by their squad.

Because this is a cooperative PvE shooter rather than a competitive esports title, latency may be less punishing than it would be in a competitive first-person shooter. However, that is a practical observation rather than a tested performance claim.

South African pricing and availability had not been confirmed in the sources checked at the time of publication.

The developer’s July announcement gives a standard international suggested retail price of US$49.99, but that should not be converted directly into rand. Local VAT, distribution and regional pricing can produce a different South African price.

PC requirements are considerably higher than the original game

The published minimum requirements call for Windows 11, an AMD Ryzen 5 2600 or Intel Core i5-8400, 10GB of RAM and an Nvidia RTX 2060.

The game requires 35GB of storage and DirectX 12. The developer targets 1080p at 30 frames per second on low settings for the minimum configuration.

The recommended configuration moves to an AMD Ryzen 5 5600G or Intel Core i5-12600, 16GB of RAM and either an AMD Radeon 6700 or Nvidia RTX 3070.

The developer targets 1080p at 60fps on high settings for this configuration.

The post Aliens: Fireteam Elite 2 expands the Xenomorph hunt to four-player squads appeared first on Technology Blog.

MeetUp 2 can work with a dedicated meeting-room computer or connect directly to a laptop for bring-your-own-device, or BYOD, meetings. Logitech lists compatibility with popular conferencing platforms such as Microsoft Teams, Zoom and Google Meet. The company also provides remote management through Logitech Sync.

The product appears on Logitech’s South African website and targets huddle and small meeting rooms. Logitech directs local business customers towards its sales and reseller channels rather than publishing a South African retail price on the product page.

South African pricing and retail availability had not been confirmed at the time of publication. TechnologyBlog.co.za has not tested MeetUp 2. This article therefore covers its verified specifications and features rather than providing a performance review.

A 120-degree camera covers small meeting rooms

MeetUp 2 uses a 4K digital PTZ camera with a 120-degree diagonal field of view. Horizontal coverage reaches 113 degrees, while vertical coverage measures 80 degrees. This wide view should help capture people sitting close to the screen in compact meeting rooms.

The camera provides 4x HD digital zoom. It can also pan digitally by up to 48 degrees in either direction at 4x zoom and tilt by up to 32 degrees. These controls allow the system to change framing without moving the physical camera.

Logitech positions MeetUp 2 for huddle and small rooms. Its South African Zoom solutions page places the camera in rooms with up to six participants. Larger spaces may need a system such as Rally Bar Mini or Rally Bar, which Logitech positions for bigger groups.

Room size still matters more than a simple headcount. A six-person group seated across a long table can place greater demands on the microphones than six people sitting close together.

RightSight 2 handles automatic framing

MeetUp 2 includes RightSight 2, Logitech’s AI-assisted video technology. It works through the built-in CollabOS platform and can help manage how participants appear to people joining remotely.

Automatic framing reduces the need for users to adjust the camera every time someone enters or changes position. This can help in shared rooms where employees may not know how to operate the conferencing equipment.

The built-in processing also gives Logitech room to expand the product through software updates. The MeetUp 2 datasheet describes its AI audio and video features as capabilities that can improve over time through regular updates.

That approach makes software support an important part of the product. Businesses buying MeetUp 2 should consider Logitech’s update policy and device-management platform alongside the camera hardware itself.

Six microphones extend pickup to seven metres

Audio gets a substantial share of MeetUp 2’s hardware. The unit contains six omnidirectional digital MEMS microphones that form five adaptive acoustic beams. Logitech specifies a pickup range of up to seven metres.

The microphone system supports acoustic echo cancellation and voice activity detection. It also uses an AI-based noise-suppression algorithm to reduce unwanted background sound.

These features aim to make speech easier to hear without requiring tabletop microphones in a small room. However, the seven-metre figure describes the rated pickup range rather than guaranteed call quality at that distance.

Hard surfaces, air-conditioning systems and other people speaking nearby can all affect meeting-room audio. TechnologyBlog.co.za has not tested how the microphones perform in South African offices or open-plan environments.

RightSound 2 focuses on clearer speech

The microphone array works with RightSound 2, Logitech’s audio-processing system. MeetUp 2 uses it to manage voices and surrounding noise before sending audio to the conferencing application.

Noise reduction can make a significant difference in small rooms. Keyboard sounds, fans and conversations outside the room can distract remote participants even when people inside the room barely notice them.

Audio processing cannot solve every acoustic problem. A room with strong echoes may still benefit from soft furnishings or acoustic treatment. The physical room remains an important part of any video-conferencing setup.

A 55mm speaker handles the remote side of the call

MeetUp 2 contains one full-range 55mm speaker in a bass-reflex enclosure. Logitech rates it at 8W and lists an 83dB SPL sensitivity measurement at one metre.

Integrating the speaker into the same enclosure keeps the meeting table clear. Smaller rooms therefore do not need separate desktop speakers or a conventional conference speakerphone for normal use.

The all-in-one layout also simplifies installation. The camera, microphones and speaker can sit together near the display rather than forcing IT teams to run audio equipment across the room.

Businesses with larger or unusually shaped rooms should still assess whether one front-mounted speaker provides suitable coverage for every seat.

MeetUp 2 supports both PC and BYOD meeting rooms

Businesses can deploy MeetUp 2 in two main ways. A dedicated computer can remain permanently connected in the room, or employees can connect their own laptops when they need to start a meeting.

A PC-based room can provide a more consistent setup because the organisation controls the computer and software. BYOD offers greater flexibility because employees can use the conferencing platform and account already configured on their laptop.

MeetUp 2 does not operate as a standalone video-conferencing appliance on its own. Logitech’s comparison identifies PC and BYOD support but lists no appliance mode for MeetUp 2. Businesses that want a self-contained appliance should look at products designed for that purpose.

This distinction can easily get lost when products use the term “video bar”. MeetUp 2 contains its own CollabOS software for device features and management, but it still relies on connected computing hardware for the meeting application.

Single-cable BYOD needs an optional cable

A standard BYOD installation uses separate connections for the meeting-room display and MeetUp 2. Logitech also supports a cleaner single-cable BYOD configuration through DisplayPort Alt Mode.

That setup requires a compatible Active USB Cable rather than the standard cable arrangement. The optional cable can carry the required data and display connection through one cable between the laptop and room system.

The distinction matters when businesses plan meeting-room cabling. A single-cable desk looks cleaner, but buyers should include the optional accessory in the total installation cost.

The standard package documentation lists a three-metre USB-C to USB-C 2.0 cable. Logitech’s support documentation notes that 4K output requires USB 3.0 or higher, so organisations that specifically want 4K should confirm the cable used in their installation.

Most conferencing platforms also operate below 4K during typical video calls. The camera’s 4K sensor can still help with digital framing and zoom, but buyers should not assume every remote participant will receive a 4K stream.

HDMI input and output provide more installation options

MeetUp 2 includes one HDMI input and one HDMI output. It also has a USB-C 3.1 connection and Gigabit Ethernet. Wi-Fi and Bluetooth Low Energy provide additional connectivity.

The Ethernet or Wi-Fi connection does more than carry meeting traffic. MeetUp 2 can connect to Logitech Sync for remote administration. This lets IT teams manage devices without visiting every meeting room.

Wired Ethernet will often make the most sense for permanent installations. It removes another wireless variable and can provide a more predictable management connection.

The presence of Wi-Fi still gives companies flexibility where running a network cable proves difficult.

Logitech Sync lets IT teams manage rooms remotely

Meeting-room equipment creates an ongoing support burden once a company deploys it across several offices. Logitech Sync gives administrators a central place to monitor supported devices, change settings and deploy updates.

This becomes increasingly useful as an installation grows. Managing one camera manually is simple. Managing 20 rooms across several buildings requires a more structured approach.

Logitech also offers additional Sync functions through paid Essential or Select licences. These can add features such as room insights, remote user-interface access and proactive alerts.

Businesses should therefore distinguish between the management functions available with the hardware and the additional services that may require a separate licence.

Digital signage can use the meeting-room display between calls

MeetUp 2 can also support digital signage through Logitech Sync and compatible platforms such as Appspace. This allows a meeting-room screen to show company information when nobody is using it for a video call.

A business could use the display for internal announcements, branding or room information rather than leaving a blank screen on the wall for most of the day.

Digital signage support depends on the selected deployment and compatible software. Organisations planning to use the feature should confirm the full platform requirements before ordering hardware.

One mount supports several room layouts

Logitech supplies MeetUp 2 with a multi-function mount. It can position the camera on a table, wall or display, while a threaded insert also supports compatible tripods.

This flexibility can reduce the need to order a different mounting kit for every room. One office might place the camera beneath a display, while another could mount it directly to a wall.

MeetUp 2 measures 469.2mm wide, 73.3mm high and 73mm deep. It weighs 1.8kg.

The design also includes cable management and retention features. These can keep USB, HDMI and power connections more secure in shared meeting spaces where employees regularly connect and disconnect laptops.

A manual privacy shutter covers the camera

MeetUp 2 includes a built-in manual privacy shutter. Users can physically cover the camera when the room is not using video.

A physical shutter offers a simple visual confirmation that the camera cannot capture an image. This can be useful in meeting rooms that also host confidential discussions.

Logitech also lists several device-security features. These include AES-128 file-based encryption, device attestation, authenticated API access and key protection through Arm TrustZone and RPMP. A Kensington security slot provides a physical security option.

Businesses should still secure the connected computer and network. Camera security alone does not protect a meeting-room system if the Windows account or conferencing credentials remain exposed.

MeetUp 2 uses recycled plastic in the enclosure

Logitech lists up to 62% certified post-consumer recycled plastic in the plastic parts of MeetUp 2, excluding accessories and packaging. Its paper packaging comes from FSC-certified forests and other controlled sources.

Sustainability figures do not tell buyers how long a device will remain useful. Software support, repairability and whether a product can survive several conferencing-platform changes also affect its long-term environmental impact.

Remote management and software updates could help extend the practical lifespan if Logitech continues adding support and features through CollabOS.

Logitech MeetUp 2 specifications

The specifications come from Logitech’s current MeetUp 2 documentation and South African product page.

What comes in the box?

The standard package includes the MeetUp 2 video bar and its multi-function mount. Logitech also includes the power supply, regional power plugs and mounting hardware.

A three-metre USB-C cable comes with the unit, along with two wall anchors and two screws. Logitech prints the quick-start instructions on the box rather than supplying a conventional booklet.

Businesses should confirm any additional cables needed for their planned deployment before installation day. A BYOD room, dedicated PC setup and single-cable configuration can require different cabling.

How MeetUp 2 improves on the original MeetUp

The original MeetUp remains a capable small-room conference camera, but MeetUp 2 changes the focus from a straightforward USB peripheral to a more manageable business device.

The newer model adds RightSight 2 and RightSound 2. It can connect directly to Ethernet or Wi-Fi for remote management, supports digital signage and offers the optional single-cable BYOD workflow. MeetUp 2 also provides a microphone pickup range of up to seven metres.

The older MeetUp has a stated microphone range of about four metres, extending to five metres with its optional Expansion Mic. It also lacks MeetUp 2’s built-in manual privacy shutter and newer AI features.

The original model still has a place where businesses already own the hardware or can acquire it at a much lower price. For a new deployment, MeetUp 2 provides a more modern platform and stronger remote-management capabilities.

Who should consider Logitech MeetUp 2?

MeetUp 2 makes the most sense for businesses equipping huddle spaces and small meeting rooms. Its wide camera, six-microphone array and built-in speaker reduce the amount of separate hardware needed around the display.

It should also appeal to organisations that use several conferencing platforms. A BYOD setup can let employees connect their own laptops instead of forcing every meeting through one dedicated platform.

IT teams managing multiple rooms gain another benefit from Logitech Sync. Central monitoring and firmware deployment can reduce the number of physical visits required for routine maintenance.

MeetUp 2 may not suit every environment. Larger meeting rooms need greater microphone and speaker coverage. Businesses wanting a completely self-contained conferencing appliance should also consider a product such as Rally Bar Huddle rather than MeetUp 2.

South African pricing and availability

Logitech lists MeetUp 2 on its South African website and provides a local Contact Sales option. Its South African partner pages also position the camera as a current solution for huddle and small meeting rooms.

The official South African product page does not publish a rand retail price. Businesses will therefore need to obtain pricing and stock information through Logitech’s local sales or reseller channels.

South African pricing and retail availability had not been confirmed at the time of publication.

Companies requesting quotations should make sure they compare complete installations rather than only the camera price. A deployment may also need a room computer, display, optional Active USB Cable and other mounting or control equipment.

MeetUp 2 offers a clear upgrade over a basic webcam for small meeting rooms. Its 120-degree camera, seven-metre microphone range and integrated speaker cover the core conferencing hardware. RightSight 2, RightSound 2 and Logitech Sync add the management and automation features that become more valuable when a business deploys the same equipment across several rooms.

The post Logitech MeetUp 2 brings AI video and audio to small meeting rooms appeared first on Technology Blog.

The more difficult question for South African buyers is price. The monitor has appeared locally at significantly different prices over time, and current availability is not consistent.

That makes the 27GP850-B a product where the price matters almost as much as the specification.

A 27-inch QHD gaming monitor

The 27GP850-B uses a 27-inch IPS panel with a 2560 × 1440 resolution.

That puts it in the QHD category, commonly referred to as 1440p.

For PC gaming, 1440p remains a useful middle ground between 1080p and 4K. It provides considerably more screen detail than Full HD without demanding the same level of graphics performance as native 4K.

The 27-inch size also gives the monitor a pixel density of approximately 109 pixels per inch, based on its resolution and physical screen size.

LG specifies a 16:9 aspect ratio, a 0.2331mm pixel pitch and viewing angles of 178 degrees horizontally and vertically.

Nano IPS targets colour and speed

LG uses a Nano IPS panel in the 27GP850-B.

The company rates the monitor’s typical DCI-P3 colour gamut at 98%, with a minimum specification of 90%. It also lists factory colour calibration.

That makes the monitor useful beyond gaming.

The wide colour gamut can benefit users who also edit photographs, video or other visual content. However, the 27GP850-B remains primarily a gaming monitor rather than a professional colour-critical display.

It does not offer hardware calibration, according to LG’s specifications.

165Hz with a 180Hz overclock

The monitor has a native maximum refresh rate of 165Hz, with LG supporting an overclocked 180Hz mode.

This is one of the monitor’s strongest gaming features.

A 165Hz display can update the image substantially more frequently than a conventional 60Hz monitor. At 180Hz, a new frame can theoretically be displayed every 5.56 milliseconds, compared with 16.67 milliseconds at 60Hz.

The difference is most noticeable in fast-moving games, particularly competitive shooters, racing games and other titles where rapid camera movement is common.

There is an important limitation, however.

LG specifies that the 180Hz overclocked mode operates through DisplayPort. The monitor’s HDMI inputs support QHD at up to 144Hz.

PC gamers wanting the maximum refresh rate should therefore use DisplayPort with compatible hardware.

1ms response time

LG lists a 1ms GTG response time when the monitor is operated in its Faster response-time mode.

Response-time figures on gaming monitors should always be treated carefully.

A manufacturer’s 1ms specification does not mean every pixel transition will take exactly one millisecond in every situation. Actual response behaviour varies according to the transition, overdrive setting and operating conditions.

Still, the specification places the 27GP850-B firmly in the high-refresh competitive-gaming category.

G-SYNC and FreeSync support

The 27GP850-B supports both major adaptive-sync ecosystems.

LG lists NVIDIA G-SYNC Compatible certification and AMD FreeSync Premium support.

Adaptive sync allows the monitor’s refresh behaviour to coordinate with the graphics card’s frame output.

This can reduce tearing and help produce a smoother image when frame rates fluctuate.

For PC gamers, support for both ecosystems is useful because the monitor does not lock buyers into a particular graphics-card manufacturer.

HDR is included, but don’t confuse DisplayHDR 400 with premium HDR

LG gives the monitor VESA DisplayHDR 400 certification and lists HDR10 support. Its typical brightness is 400cd/m², with a minimum specification of 320cd/m².

That means the monitor can accept HDR content.

It is important not to confuse that with the HDR performance offered by high-end OLED or Mini-LED monitors.

The 27GP850-B uses an IPS panel with a typical 1000:1 contrast ratio and does not have a high-zone local-dimming system listed in its specifications.

As a result, its HDR capability is best viewed as an additional feature rather than the main reason to buy the monitor.

For traditional PC gaming, its QHD resolution, high refresh rate and adaptive-sync support are considerably more important specifications.

Gaming features built into the monitor

LG includes several features aimed specifically at gamers.

These include:

• Dynamic Action Sync
• Black Stabilizer
• Crosshair
• FPS Counter
• Motion Blur Reduction
• Game Optimizer
• Adaptive Sync
• Overclocking

LG also provides a user-defined key and automatic input switching.

Black Stabilizer is intended to make dark areas easier to see, while Dynamic Action Sync is designed to reduce perceived input delay.

The Crosshair feature adds an on-screen aiming reticle, although its usefulness will depend on the game and the player’s preferences.

The stand is more flexible than many gaming monitors

The included stand supports height adjustment, tilt and pivot.

That is useful for anyone spending long periods at the desk.

The display can also be mounted using a 100 × 100mm VESA mount.

The monitor is approximately 614mm wide and weighs 6.3kg with its stand attached. Without the stand, LG lists the weight at 4.2kg.

Connectivity is adequate, but dated by current standards

The 27GP850-B provides:

LG lists DisplayPort 1.4 and two HDMI inputs. The HDMI inputs support QHD up to 144Hz, while DisplayPort supports QHD at 165Hz and the 180Hz overclock.

There is no USB-C video connection.

That is one area where the monitor shows its age. Newer gaming and productivity monitors increasingly use USB-C, sometimes with power delivery, allowing a laptop to connect to the display with a single cable.

The 27GP850-B does not provide that functionality.

Power consumption is relatively modest

LG lists typical power consumption at 48W, with a maximum of 65W. Sleep-mode consumption is below 0.5W.

For South African gamers, this is worth considering when comparing a monitor with larger displays or more power-hungry technologies.

The monitor uses an external power adapter and accepts 100-240V at 50/60Hz.

That means it is electrically compatible with South Africa’s 230V supply.

Of course, the monitor’s actual electricity consumption depends on brightness, refresh rate, connected USB devices and usage.

The 2021 launch date matters

The biggest issue with the 27GP850-B in 2026 is not its specification.

It is its age.

LG identifies the model year as 2021.

Five years is a long time in the gaming-monitor market.

Since the 27GP850-B was introduced, manufacturers have moved towards OLED panels, Mini-LED backlighting, higher refresh rates, USB-C connectivity, HDMI 2.1 and increasingly high-resolution displays.

That does not make the LG obsolete.

It simply changes how it should be evaluated.

A 27-inch 1440p IPS monitor at 165Hz or 180Hz can still provide an excellent gaming experience. The important question is whether the price is low enough to make the older technology worthwhile compared with newer alternatives.

South African pricing is difficult to pin down

This is where buyers need to be careful.

PriceCheck’s historical data shows the 27GP850-B was last offered by Import It All at R19,987 on 25 January 2026, but it currently shows no active offer for that listing.

That price should not be treated as the normal South African market price.

For comparison, another South African retailer previously listed the monitor at R8,049 including VAT, although that listing is now marked out of stock.

PriceCheck also recorded a previous Takealot listing at R6,999 in August 2025.

The enormous difference between those figures illustrates why buyers should not simply search for the model number and purchase the first listing they find.

Imported stock, availability, warranties and retailer margins can have a significant effect on the final price.

South African pricing and availability should therefore be checked at the time of purchase.

Is the LG 27GP850-B still worth buying in 2026?

The answer depends heavily on price.

If found at a competitive price, the 27GP850-B still has a strong gaming specification:

• 27-inch QHD resolution
• Nano IPS panel
• 165Hz native refresh rate
• 180Hz overclocking
• 1ms GTG response-time claim
• G-SYNC Compatible
• FreeSync Premium
• DCI-P3 98% typical coverage
• DisplayHDR 400
• Height, tilt and pivot adjustment

Those specifications remain perfectly respectable for a 1440p gaming PC.

But the monitor’s lack of USB-C, HDMI 2.1, built-in speakers and newer panel technologies shows its age.

For someone building a gaming PC around a mid-range or upper-mid-range graphics card, 1440p at high refresh rates can still be a sensible target.

For someone with a high-end GPU who wants OLED contrast, 4K resolution or very high refresh rates, newer monitors may be more appropriate.

The verdict

The LG UltraGear 27GP850-B demonstrates why specifications need context.

A monitor launched in 2021 can still deliver a strong gaming experience in 2026 when it combines 1440p resolution, a high refresh rate, adaptive sync and a responsive IPS panel.

But buyers should not pay a premium simply because the monitor carries the UltraGear name.

The price is the deciding factor.

At a competitive price, the 27GP850-B remains a capable 1440p gaming monitor. At an inflated import price approaching R20,000, its five-year-old specification becomes much harder to justify when newer gaming monitors are available.

For South African gamers considering this model today, the best approach is therefore to compare the actual local price against current 27-inch QHD alternatives before buying.

The post LG UltraGear 27GP850-B: A 1440p 180Hz Gaming Monitor That Still Has Plenty to Offer appeared first on Technology Blog.

That is the premise behind Pizza House Simulator, which launches on Steam on 19 August 2026.

Developed by Broken Lyre Entertainment and Wendigo Games and published by Devotion Interactive, the simulation lets players build and manage a pizzeria on Italy’s Amalfi Coast. It supports both single-player and online co-op for up to six players.

The game goes beyond simply making pizzas. Players must manage staff, equipment, finances, ingredient costs and the restaurant itself while dealing with unexpected events that can disrupt the business.

More than just making pizza

The central gameplay loop starts in the kitchen.

Players prepare ingredients, stretch dough by hand, operate the oven and repair equipment while attempting to keep customers happy. As the restaurant grows, kitchen equipment can be upgraded and stations can be automated. Assistants can also be hired to help manage the workload.

That creates an interesting progression system.

The player starts with a family restaurant that needs attention and gradually turns it into a larger operation.

The goal is not simply to make better pizzas. It is to create a business capable of handling increasingly complicated restaurant operations.

The restaurant itself can be customised

Players can customise their pizzeria as they progress.

The Steam listing says decorations, kitchen equipment, upgrades and other customisation options can be unlocked through progression, quests and gameplay achievements.

That allows the restaurant to evolve from a small family establishment into a more elaborate Italian restaurant.

The customisation also gives players another reason to keep expanding beyond the basic cooking mechanics.

The economy can work for or against you

One of the more unusual aspects of Pizza House Simulator is its economic system.

Players can take loans from the bank, invest in the stock market and monitor changing ingredient prices. The game also incorporates economic news that can provide clues about what may happen next.

The example provided by the developer is particularly interesting.

A strike by tomato farmers could affect ingredient prices and create a financial opportunity for players who anticipate what is coming.

This means restaurant management isn’t limited to deciding how many pizzas to make.

Players are also expected to think about purchasing, investment and broader economic conditions.

That could make Pizza House Simulator particularly interesting for people who enjoy management games where decisions outside the immediate production process affect profitability.

Dinner service can become chaotic

The game also deliberately introduces problems that can disrupt an otherwise successful restaurant.

Broken equipment, fires, thieves, mafia incidents and other disasters can affect the business. Player decisions can also have consequences. For example, pushing staff too hard or ignoring broken equipment can create additional problems.

Weather and the environment also change over time.

The game includes day and night cycles, seasonal weather, rain, fog and snow. Random events can also affect customer behaviour and the wider economy.

That gives each restaurant session the potential to develop differently rather than following exactly the same sequence of events.

You can run the restaurant with friends

The biggest feature for players who enjoy multiplayer management games is the co-op mode.

Pizza House Simulator supports online co-op for up to six players, with the systems balanced for both solo and cooperative play.

That could significantly change how the game is played.

One player could concentrate on food preparation while another handles equipment and restaurant management. Other players can then deal with customers, finances or other tasks.

The game also includes leaderboards and allows players to compete against other restaurants.

Twitch integration is built in

The multiplayer system extends beyond simply inviting friends.

Pizza House Simulator includes Twitch integration, allowing viewers to be invited directly into the restaurant and participate in real-time gameplay.

That makes the game particularly relevant to streamers.

A restaurant simulation already creates opportunities for unpredictable situations, and allowing viewers to become participants could make those situations even less predictable.

This is also one of the game’s clearest differences from a conventional single-player restaurant simulator.

South African gamers should consider the online connection

For South African players, the single-player mode removes the need to worry about multiplayer connectivity.

However, anyone planning to play the game primarily through online co-op should consider their internet connection.

The Steam listing confirms online co-op but does not specify a South African server region.

That does not mean South African players cannot use the multiplayer mode.

It simply means there is no confirmed local server information that can be used to predict latency from South Africa.

For a co-op management game, connection quality is likely to be less demanding than it would be for a competitive first-person shooter, but players should still judge the experience based on their actual connection.

There is therefore no reason to assume the game is unsuitable for South African players simply because a South African server is not listed.

PC requirements are relatively low

One of the more accessible aspects of Pizza House Simulator is its hardware requirement.

The minimum specification calls for a 64-bit Windows 10 system, Intel Core i5-2500K or AMD FX-8350, 8GB of RAM and an Nvidia GTX 750 Ti or AMD Radeon R7 260X.

The game requires only 5GB of storage. The developer targets 30 FPS at 1080p on low settings for the minimum specification.

The recommended specification moves to an Intel Core i5-8400 or AMD Ryzen 5 2600, 16GB of RAM and an Nvidia GTX 1060 6GB or AMD RX 580.

Pizza House Simulator PC requirements

These are the developer’s published requirements. TechnologyBlog.co.za has not independently benchmarked the game, so the specifications should not be interpreted as a guarantee of a particular frame rate.

There is a demo

Players who are unsure whether the concept appeals to them can also try the Pizza House Simulator demo through Steam.

That is useful for a game built around a management loop because trailers can show the cooking and restaurant-building mechanics without necessarily demonstrating how enjoyable the underlying gameplay becomes over several hours.

The demo gives players an opportunity to determine whether the cooking, management and progression systems suit their preferences before purchasing the full game.

No launch reviews yet

There is an important caveat for anyone considering the game immediately after launch.

The Steam listing currently shows no user reviews for the full game.

That means there is not yet enough player feedback to make a reliable judgement about the game’s overall quality, performance, bugs or long-term replayability.

TechnologyBlog.co.za has also not independently tested the release.

This article therefore reports what the developer has confirmed rather than presenting an assessment of whether Pizza House Simulator is good or bad.

A restaurant simulator with a broader ambition

What makes Pizza House Simulator interesting is that the pizza-making mechanic is only the starting point.

The game combines:

• Cooking
• Restaurant management
• Staff management
• Equipment upgrades
• Automation
• Economic management
• Stock-market investment
• Farming and ingredient-price events
• Restaurant customisation
• Random disasters
• Single-player gameplay
• Six-player online co-op
• Twitch integration
• Leaderboards

That combination gives the game a much broader scope than its title initially suggests.

For South African PC gamers, the relatively modest hardware requirements are another advantage. Players with older gaming PCs may not need a recent graphics card to meet the published minimum specification.

The more interesting question now is whether all these systems work together effectively.

That will require hands-on testing and player feedback after launch.

For anyone who enjoys simulation and management games, however, Pizza House Simulator offers a fairly unusual combination of hands-on cooking, business management and multiplayer chaos. It is available on Steam from 19 August 2026, with both solo and online co-op options.

The post Pizza House Simulator launches on Steam with six-player co-op and restaurant management appeared first on Technology Blog.

The sequel keeps the original game’s central idea of inhabiting the bodies of fallen warriors, but expands it into an interconnected open world with more exploration, deeper weapon upgrades, more dungeons and eight playable Shells.

For South African PC gamers, the standard edition is currently listed at R599 on Steam. The game also has an open beta that lets prospective players experience the opening section before deciding whether to purchase the full release.

A bigger Mortal Shell rather than a completely different game

The original Mortal Shell released in 2021 as a compact Soulslike built around difficult combat, exploration and its distinctive Shell system.

Mortal Shell II retains that identity but expands the scope considerably.

Players take the role of the Harbinger, a prophesied figure tasked with reclaiming the blessed Ova of the Undermether from creatures and zealots guarding it. The journey takes players through an interconnected world containing forests, temples, icy areas and other dark-fantasy environments.

The developers describe the world as deliberately compact rather than a huge open-world map filled with empty space.

That is an important distinction.

The intention is to give players freedom to explore while keeping the world dense enough that exploration regularly produces something useful, whether that means a new Shell, weapon, upgrade, story element or dungeon.

Eight Shells replace the traditional character-class approach

One of the game’s defining mechanics is the Shell system.

Instead of creating a conventional character class and sticking with it, players discover the remains of fallen warriors throughout the world. Those bodies can then be awakened and possessed, giving the Harbinger access to different abilities and combat characteristics.

The full game features eight playable Shells.

Each Shell provides its own abilities and combat identity, giving players another way to approach the game’s enemies and bosses.

The system also encourages exploration because finding another Shell is not simply about discovering a new piece of equipment. It can fundamentally change how the player approaches combat.

Combat removes stamina restrictions

One of the most significant changes from the traditional Soulslike formula is the combat system.

Mortal Shell II does not restrict combat through a stamina bar. Instead, players can attack, evade and manoeuvre without the conventional stamina management found in many Soulslike games.

That does not mean the game is intended to be easy.

The developers have instead built the combat around enemy posture, positioning and finding opportunities to deliver critical attacks.

Players can use different tactics to break an opponent’s posture before exploiting the opening.

The game also expands weapon customisation, with extensive upgrade options and additional weapons that can complement each Shell’s abilities.

This could make the sequel feel different from the original even for players who already understand the first game’s basic mechanics.

The world is built around exploration

The developers describe the world as an interconnected network of paths rather than a collection of completely separate levels.

Players can wander away from the obvious route and discover new areas, equipment, Shells and story elements.

The official Steam listing says the world contains more than 80 dungeons, each designed to challenge the abilities and equipment players have accumulated.

That gives exploration a practical purpose.

Rather than simply moving through the world to reach the next boss, players have reasons to investigate side paths and hidden areas.

The combination of compact open-world design and numerous dungeons also appears to be one of the sequel’s biggest departures from the original game’s more limited structure.

The beta gives players three hours before launch

Cold Symmetry has already given players an opportunity to try the game through an open beta.

The beta provides access to approximately the first three hours of the game, beginning with the prologue and extending into the first explorable region. Players can encounter optional dungeons, mini-bosses and other challenges during the trial.

The beta was released on Steam on 5 June 2026 and later became available on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S.

Importantly, beta progress does not transfer completely to the final game.

Currency, weapons, Shells, collectibles and other items found during the beta reset at launch. Players who progressed far enough through the beta could, however, unlock the option to skip the prologue in the full game.

That makes the beta more useful as a try-before-you-buy opportunity than as an early-access version of the complete game.

The beta has received a strong response

The open beta has received a notably positive response on Steam.

At the time of checking, the beta had thousands of reviews and a Very Positive rating, with the English-language reviews also rated Very Positive.

That is encouraging for Cold Symmetry, but it needs to be put into context.

These are reviews of an in-development beta, not the finished Mortal Shell II.

The developers themselves warned beta players that they could encounter bugs, performance issues and other rough edges while development continued.

TechnologyBlog.co.za therefore would not use the beta’s rating as a substitute for a review of the finished game.

South African price is R599 on Steam

For South African PC gamers, Steam’s regional pricing lists the standard edition at R599.

The international Steam price is US$49.99, but the South African price is the more useful figure for local readers.

The Devout Edition is priced at US$59.99 internationally. Its main additional benefit is Advanced Access, allowing purchasers to begin playing up to 72 hours before the standard release, along with eight Obsidian Shell skins.

The standard game therefore launches on 20 August, while Devout Edition owners can access it from 17 August.

That distinction is particularly relevant for South African players who see the game already being played online before the official launch date.

PC requirements are fairly demanding

The published PC requirements are considerably higher than those of many older Soulslike games.

The minimum specification requires Windows 10 or 11, an Intel Core i7-10700K or AMD Ryzen 5 3600, 16GB of RAM and either an Nvidia RTX 2060 Super 8GB or AMD Radeon RX 6600 8GB.

The game also requires DirectX 12, 30GB of storage and an SSD.

Mortal Shell II PC requirements

The developer has not published a recommended PC specification on the Steam listing available at the time of reporting.

For South African gamers, that means the hardware requirement deserves attention before buying. Meeting the minimum specification does not guarantee a particular frame rate or graphical setting.

TechnologyBlog.co.za has not independently benchmarked the game, so no performance claims are being made here.

It remains a single-player experience

Mortal Shell II is listed as a single-player action RPG.

That is useful information for South African players because there are no multiplayer server regions or latency considerations to worry about.

The game is designed around exploration, combat and character progression rather than online competition.

For players with unreliable internet connections, that also makes it a more straightforward proposition than an online-only action game, although an internet connection may still be required for downloading and updating the game.

What makes Mortal Shell II different?

The Soulslike market is crowded, so Mortal Shell II needs more than difficult combat to stand out.

Its strongest differentiators are the combination of Shell possession, stamina-free combat and a deliberately compact interconnected world.

The eight Shells give players different approaches to combat, while the absence of stamina restrictions changes the rhythm of encounters.

The world design then encourages players to experiment and explore rather than simply following a linear path from one boss to another.

Those are meaningful changes from simply producing another Soulslike sequel with a new setting.

South African players can try before they buy

For South African gamers considering Mortal Shell II, the most useful option may be the open beta.

Rather than relying solely on trailers or reviews, players can experience the opening section themselves and determine whether the combat, visual style and difficulty suit them.

The R599 Steam price also puts the standard edition below many new AAA releases, although whether it represents good value will ultimately depend on the finished game’s length, performance and quality.

Those are areas that cannot be fairly judged from the pre-release material alone.

For now, Mortal Shell II looks like a substantial expansion of the original rather than a simple sequel built around more of the same. The real test begins when the full game releases on 20 August 2026 and players can explore its complete world, all eight Shells and its full combat and progression systems.

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