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2 weeks ago
Microsoft is raising prices on its Xbox consoles, games, and accessories, marking a potential turning point after decades of deflation in the gaming industry—even as development costs have continued to rise. The move underscores mounting pressure on developers and publishers to restore margins, while new optimism for the industry builds ahead of this fall’s release of the guaranteed mega-hit Grand Theft Auto 6. The technology news website Engadget reports that Xbox consoles and games will see price hikes this year. This means Xbox Series S will start at $380, up from the previous price of $300. The Series X console will be priced at $550, a $100 increase. For Xbox video games, the average price for AAA-rated games is expected to rise to $80. Click here to read more Also read: Microsoft Vulnerabilities Hit Record High In 2024, Says New BeyondTrust Report
2 weeks ago
A “superbike for the skies” has officially emerged from stealth mode, drawing striking parallels to the iconic speeder bikes from the early 1980s sci-fi classic Star Wars: Episode VI – Return of the Jedi. Poland-based startup Volonaut unveiled a single-seater jet-powered hoverbike that clocks in speeds in excess of 124 mph. “The futuristic single occupant vehicle is a realization of a bold concept often portrayed in science-fiction movies – this is where the inspiration came from many years ago and with time became the obsession to its creator,” the company wrote in an emailed response. Volonaut noted, “Thanks to Airbike’s extremely compact size and no spinning propellers it can travel through most confined areas with ease.” The startup dripped a teaser video ahead of the release on Tuesday… Followed by the official launch video on Wednesday, titled “Meet the Airbike.” What’s better than electric spinning blades? Volonaut demonstrates how jet propulsion will be the future.
3 weeks ago
OpenAI has announced a new version of its ‘Deep Research’ tool, which is now available to users across all tiers of ChatGPT service. The company revealed the update through its official X account. The new iteration runs on OpenAI’s ‘o4-mini ‘model, which the company describes as “nearly as intelligent” as the original version. This tool specialises in creating source-backed reports and summaries from online content. Introducing OpenAI o3 and o4-mini—our smartest and most capable models to date. For the first time, our reasoning models can agentically use and combine every tool within ChatGPT, including web search, Python, image analysis, file interpretation, and image generation. pic.twitter.com/rDaqV0x0wE — OpenAI (@OpenAI) April 16, 2025 ChatGPT’s Deep Research tool now available across all user tiers According to OpenAI, the updated version provides shorter responses while maintaining the “depth and accuracy” of its research capabilities. With this update, free ChatGPT users can now access the lightweight version of Deep Research with a limit of five tasks per month. Plus and Team subscribers receive 25 tasks monthly across both the original and new lightweight versions, while Pro subscribers get 250 tasks per month. Enterprise and Education plan users will gain access to the tool next week, with […]
3 weeks ago
Oman has introduced regulations for the use of VPNs and certain applications, such as WhatsApp calls and TikTok, in the country. According to a report from the Oman Observer, companies running these services can either collaborate directly with telecom providers or work through them, explained a top official from the Telecom Regulatory Authority (TRA) during their annual media briefing on April 23. The TRA also emphasised that it does not directly ban these applications, but regulates their services through licensing and by encouraging local companies. Although TikTok is not banned in the country, user issues are attributed to technical reasons. Additionally, several TikTok users have started accessing the platform without a VPN. All decisions made by the TRA aim to balance economic considerations with the needs of those benefiting from these services. The country’s laws are carefully developed, considering feedback from international companies offering these services. The community also has the opportunity to voice its opinion, the official added.
3 weeks ago
Apple is turbocharging its “friend-shoring” strategy, thanks in large part to President Trump’s ongoing trade war with Beijing, by initiating plans to shift all iPhone production for the U.S. market from China to India starting next year, according to the Financial Times, citing sources. The move marks a significant step toward diversifying Apple’s supply chain away from China, in an effort to avoid tariffs. The sources said the continued diversification of the supply chain into India may suggest that iPhone production could be ramped up to 60 million units by the end of 2026, or the amount required to satisfy the U.S. market. Apple still relies heavily on Chinese suppliers for components, but final assembly is being relocated to Indian facilities operated by Foxconn and Tata Electronics. Unbeknownst to U.S. consumers, Apple has already ramped up production of Indian-made iPhones to avoid the 145% tariffs Trump imposed on China. Daniel Newman of the Futurum Group research firm said Tim Cook’s friend-shoring of iPhone production out of China to India (for the U.S. market) “is going to be an important move for the company to be able to maintain its growth and momentum,” adding, “We are seeing in real time how a company with these resources […]
3 weeks ago
YouTube today released new data showing an increase in channels making seven figures or more in revenue in Egypt, Saudi Arabia and the UAE on the platform. This comes as the platform celebrates its 20th birthday, celebrating two decades as a platform for expression, learning, and entertainment. YouTube’s new insights revealed that as of December 2024, the number of channels earning seven figures or more in Saudi Riyals increased by 40 per cent year on year. YouTube creators in the UAE, Saudi and Egypt Egypt also saw a 60 per cent increase in channels reaching seven-figure annual revenues in EGP, while the UAE experienced a 15 per cent growth in UAE Dirhams during the same time period, reflecting YouTube’s support for its partners and contributions to the creator economy. Globally, YouTube has paid out $70bn to creators, artists, and media companies over the past three years. Javid Aslanov, Head of YouTube in MENA, said: “As YouTube turns 20, we celebrate the phenomenal work of creators across MENA and their role in driving the region’s popular culture. These creative entrepreneurs skilfully leveraged YouTube’s diverse formats to share their voices and also build thriving businesses that reach global audiences. “We’re proud to be able to […]
3 weeks ago
The UAE has positioned itself among leading emerging economies in AI readiness, according to a new report from Boston Consulting Group (BCG). The study, GCC AI Pulse: Mapping the Region’s Readiness for an AI-Driven Future, places the UAE in the ‘AI Contender’ category alongside 31 other economies, including Saudi Arabia. BCG’s 2024 AI Maturity Matrix, presented at the Dubai AI Assembly, categorises economies into four tiers: Emergents, Practitioners, Contenders, and Pioneers. While other GCC nations such as Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, and Bahrain rank as ‘AI Practitioners’, no Gulf nation has yet achieved the top-tier “Pioneer” status currently held by the US, UK, and China. UAE’s AI readiness ranked “The UAE is poised to be a regional leader amongst other global AI Pioneers by capitalising on its established digital infrastructure and formulating strategic initiatives that support AI integration into its economic visions. Key indicators collectively illustrate a forward-thinking approach to AI by the UAE and outline clear pathways for improvement. As entities forge ahead, these insights are key in the drive towards AI maturation,” Dr. Akram Awad, Managing Director and Partner at BCG said. The UAE’s performance mirrors many benchmarks set by established AI Pioneers, with particular strength in AI governance as demonstrated by […]
4 weeks ago
The Kuwaiti government has issued a new ministerial resolution authorising the use of advanced scientific methods—including DNA and biometric analysis — in decisions related to the granting, revocation, confirmation, or withdrawal of Kuwaiti citizenship. Ministerial Resolution No. 678 of 2025, issued by Sheikh Fahad Al Yousef, First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, outlines a regulatory framework aimed at enhancing the accuracy and integrity of citizenship procedures through modern technology. According to local media, the resolution includes the following key provisions: The resolution will come into effect upon its publication in the official gazette. Officials say the move reflects Kuwait’s commitment to transparency, accuracy, and legal due process in matters of national identity.
4 weeks ago
Thailand has debuted the world’s first ‘Robocop’ designed to detect and prevent crime with advanced AI. Equipped with 360-degree cameras for eyes, the cutting-edge cyborg maintains constant surveillance with real-time monitoring. The robocop, named Police Colonel Nakhonpathom Plod Phai, meaning “Nakhonpathom is safe,” was unveiled during the Songkran festival in Nakhon Pathom province on Wednesday. The debut was announced via a Facebook post by the Royal Thai Police, according to a report by The Sun. The robocop is also able to detect weapons, such as knives and wooden batons. In neighboring China, humanoid robots have started supporting police patrols. Interesting Engineering reports: In Shenzhen, PM01 model robots developed by EngineAI have been deployed alongside officers, wearing high-visibility police vests. These robots have been seen engaging with pedestrians—waving, shaking hands, and responding to voice commands—according to local media reports. A recent video shows a PM01 robot waving to a crowd, sparking curiosity about its purpose in law enforcement. First launched in December 2024, the PM01 features agile mobility, an interactive touchscreen, and an open-source platform. This design allows developers worldwide to contribute to its evolution by adding new features and capabilities through secondary development. Last year, Logon Technology, a Chinese robotics company, unveiled the RT-G autonomous spherical robot, described […]
4 weeks ago
The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) has confirmed the development and successful testing of advanced biometric identification systems that eliminate the need for physical Emirates ID cards. According to the Authority, these advanced systems, built in collaboration with strategic partners, utilise facial recognition and artificial intelligence technologies, accessible via its smart application. These solutions are designed to complement existing identity systems while enhancing security, accuracy, and convenience across sectors. Target sectors The biometric ID systems, powered by cutting-edge technology, are designed to be adopted across key sectors such as government, banking, telecommunications, healthcare, hospitality, and insurance industries where precise and secure customer identification is critical. These systems apply high standards of technical and procedural verification, while complying with national data protection laws and risk management frameworks. The announcement was made in a written response to the Federal National Council (FNC), addressing a question from Dr. Adnan Hamad Al Hammadi, a member of the Council, about the promotion and implementation of electronic identity solutions to enhance service efficiency. Strategic roll-out According to the Authority, the deployment of digital identity solutions is being executed in carefully planned phases. The transition began with the digitisation of simple services […]
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