Tech

Does the Metaverse exist in the UAE?

The concept of the Metaverse, a term that has captured the imagination of tech enthusiasts worldwide, is rapidly gaining traction in the United Arab Emirates. So, does the Metaverse exist in the UAE? We’ll find out.

As a futuristic vision of the internet, the Metaverse promises a fully immersive digital world where people can interact, conduct business, and even participate in leisure activities through their virtual avatars.

In the UAE, a country renowned for its ambitious technological and architectural achievements, the integration of the Metaverse into various sectors is already underway, signaling a new era of digital engagement.

Historically, the UAE has positioned itself as a leader in innovation, particularly in technology and real estate.

From constructing the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa, to launching the Mars probe, Hope, the Emirates has consistently demonstrated a forward-thinking approach to growth and development.

This visionary mindset extends to the digital realm as well, with the government and private sectors actively exploring the possibilities presented by the Metaverse.

The Dubai Metaverse Strategy is one of the most significant initiatives, aiming to establish Dubai as a global hub for the Metaverse and digital economy.

Announced by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, the strategy seeks to support more than 40,000 virtual jobs by 2030 and add $4 billion to the national economy over the next five years.

This strategic move underscores Dubai’s commitment to fostering innovation and establishing a comprehensive ecosystem that includes blockchain and VR technologies, essential components of the Metaverse.

In the realm of real estate, developers in the UAE are pioneering the integration of Metaverse experiences to attract tech-savvy investors.

For example, DAMAC Properties has ventured into developing digital real estate in the Metaverse, offering buyers and investors the opportunity to purchase virtual properties.

These properties are not just speculative investments but are part of a broader plan to create a seamless virtual environment that complements the physical world.

The entertainment sector in the UAE is also embracing the Metaverse, with various events and concerts taking place within these virtual spaces.

One notable example is the MDLBEAST Soundstorm music festival in neighboring Saudi Arabia, which offered a Metaverse experience for attendees, showcasing the regional interest in virtual entertainment platforms.

This trend is expected to expand within the UAE, with more events integrating Metaverse elements to enhance user engagement and offer unique experiences that transcend physical boundaries.

Education is another sector where the Metaverse is set to make a significant impact. Universities in the UAE are exploring ways to incorporate Metaverse platforms into their curricula to provide immersive learning experiences that can simulate real-life scenarios and experiments in a controlled, virtual environment.

The Higher Colleges of Technology in the UAE, for instance, has expressed interest in using Metaverse technologies to transform the educational landscape, making learning more interactive and accessible.

Moreover, the retail industry in the UAE is not far behind, with malls and stores beginning to create digital twins in the Metaverse.

This allows consumers to browse and shop in a virtual mall, replicating the experience of visiting a physical store but from the comfort of their homes.

This hybrid shopping experience combines the ease of online shopping with the engagement of in-store visits, tailored to the digital age.

In conclusion, the Metaverse does indeed exist in the UAE and is rapidly evolving.

With its rich history of embracing and pioneering new technologies, the UAE is uniquely positioned to capitalize on the opportunities presented by the Metaverse.

As this virtual world continues to grow, it will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the future of work, education, entertainment, and social interaction in the region.

The UAE’s proactive approach in integrating the Metaverse into its infrastructure and economy not only highlights its status as a modern and dynamic society but also paves the way for a new frontier in digital innovation.

So, does the Metaverse exist in the UAE? Clearly, it does.

Tech

Apple Developing Vision Pro 2 and All-New Smart Glasses

Apple is making significant strides in the realm of augmented reality (AR) and wearable technology. According to a recent report from Bloomberg, the tech giant is not only working on a second-generation version of its highly anticipated Apple Vision Pro headset but also developing a more affordable variant and an entirely new category of smart glasses. This move signals Apple’s intention to dominate the AR market and expand its portfolio of wearable tech products. Apple Developing Vision Pro 2 is a big thing.

A Second-Generation Vision Pro and a Budget-Friendly Variant

The first-generation Apple Vision Pro, will be followed by a second-generation model.

This upcoming version will build on the innovations of the original, introducing enhancements in display quality, processing power, and user experience.

In addition to the Vision Pro 2, Apple is reportedly working on a more budget-friendly option, tentatively named the “Apple Vision.” This variant aims to bring the AR experience to a broader audience by offering a more affordable price point without compromising too much on essential features. The Apple Vision Pro 2 could launch as early as 2025, catering to consumers who are eager to explore AR technology but are hesitant to invest in the premium-priced Vision Pro.

Entering the Smart Glasses Market

Beyond the Vision Pro series, Apple is also exploring the “smart glasses” segment, a market currently represented by products like Meta’s smart Ray-Ban glasses, which start at $329. While details about Apple’s smart glasses, potentially named “Apple Glass,” remain scarce, the company is reportedly facing several technical challenges that have delayed its development. Unlike the Vision Pro headsets, which are designed to offer a full AR experience, Apple Glass will be a lighter, more everyday wearable device, focusing on notifications, basic augmented reality features, and seamless integration with other Apple products.

The development of Apple Glass appears to be in the early stages, with no defined timeline for its release. The ambition to transform these glasses into a genuine AR device has been postponed due to various technical difficulties, pushing its potential launch date further out, possibly beyond the release of the next-generation Vision Pro and the budget-friendly Apple Vision.

Supply Chain Adjustments and OLED-on-Silicon Panels

As Apple gears up for these ambitious product launches, the company is also making strategic adjustments to its supply chain, particularly in sourcing OLED-on-Silicon (OLEDoS) panels, which are crucial for the Vision Pro headset. Currently, Sony supplies these advanced microdisplays, but their production capacity is limited to approximately 900,000 panels annually. This limitation has prompted Apple to seek alternative suppliers to meet the expected demand for its AR devices.

Reports indicate that Apple has issued a request for information (RFI) to both Samsung Display and LG Display to evaluate their potential for manufacturing larger OLEDoS panels, specifically in the 2.0 to 2.1-inch range, with a display density nearing 1,700 pixels per inch (PPI). This shift in supply chain strategy suggests that Apple is committed to advancing its AR headset technology while also working to make it more accessible to a wider audience through cost-effective production methods.

The Future of AR at Apple

Apple’s ongoing development of the Vision Pro 2, the budget-friendly Apple Vision, and the innovative Apple Glass highlights the company’s dedication to leading the AR and wearable technology markets. By diversifying its product lineup and exploring new categories, Apple will capture a significant share of the AR market, whichwill grow substantially in the coming years.

While the exact timelines for these products remain uncertain, the advancements Apple is making in AR technology and its strategic supply chain adjustments indicate that the company is serious about bringing cutting-edge AR experiences to consumers. Whether through the high-end Vision Pro, the more accessible Apple Vision, or the everyday practicality of Apple Glass, Apple will reshape how users interact with technology in their daily lives.

As Apple continues to innovate in this space, consumers can look forward to a future where AR and wearable technology become integral parts of their digital ecosystems. For now, all eyes are on Apple’s next moves, with anticipation building for what could be some of the most groundbreaking products in the company’s history.

For the latest updates on Apple’s AR developments and other tech news, be sure to visit What’s Hot in UAE.

Tech

Apple to The Unveil M4 Mac Mini

Apple is set to introduce a major redesign of the Mac Mini, marking the first significant overhaul of the device since 2010. The new Mac Mini, expected to debut later this year, will be Apple’s most compact desktop computer to date, positioning it as a key player in the company’s lineup of powerful, yet portable, devices. According to reports from Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, this revamped model will be equipped with the latest M4 and M4 Pro chips, representing a significant upgrade in performance and efficiency. Apple to Unveil The M4 Mac Mini: The Most Compact Computer Yet.

NEW: Apple readies revamped, ultra small Mac mini with M4 and M4 Pro that’s less than half the size of the current model as part of end-to-end Mac refresh. https://t.co/4z0r1EX56a— Mark Gurman (@markgurman) August 8, 2024

Compact and Powerful

The redesigned Mac Mini is expected to be comparable in size to an Apple TV, though it may stand slightly taller than the current model, which has a height of 1.4 inches. Despite its reduced size, the Mac Mini will continue to feature an aluminum casing, maintaining the sleek, durable design that Apple is known for. Those involved in the development of the device have described it as “essentially an iPad Pro in a small box,” highlighting its powerful capabilities packed into a compact form factor.

Enhanced Connectivity and Design

Reports indicate that Apple has been testing Mac Mini models with at least three USB-C ports located on the rear, along with a dedicated space for the power cable and an HDMI port. This expanded connectivity will provide users with more flexibility for peripherals and displays, making the Mac Mini a versatile option for both personal and professional use.

M4 and M4 Pro Variants

The upcoming Mac Mini will be available in two versions: one equipped with the standard M4 chip, similar to the iPad Pro, and another with the more powerful M4 Pro chip. The base model is expected to start shipping from suppliers this month, with a public release anticipated later in the year. The high-end variant, featuring the M4 Pro chip, is projected to be available by October.

Apple plans to launch a redesigned Mac mini with M4 and M4 Pro chips later this year

The new Mac mini will be Apple's smallest computer ever, approaching the size of an Apple TV

Source: @markgurman pic.twitter.com/dHcaWOik2F— Apple Hub (@theapplehub) August 8, 2024

A Unified Chip Generation

The introduction of the M4 generation of Apple silicon is significant not just for the Mac Mini, but for Apple’s entire range of computers. For the first time, Apple is expected to employ a uniform chip generation across its entire Mac lineup, including the MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, iMac, Mac Studio, and Mac Pro. This consistency will ensure that all of Apple’s Macs benefit from the same advancements in processing power, energy efficiency, and integration with other Apple devices and services.

Conclusion

For Apple to The Unveil M4 Mac Mini, the redesigned M4 Mac Mini represents a major step forward for Apple’s desktop computers, combining a compact form factor with the latest in Apple silicon technology. As Apple continues to push the boundaries of what its devices can achieve, the new Mac Mini is set to be a powerful addition to the company’s lineup, offering users both versatility and performance in a small package.

For more updates on the latest tech developments and product launches, be sure to visit What’s Hot in UAE.

Tech

Pixel 9 Series Expected to Launch Without Android 15

The Google Pixel 9 series, is generating buzz with its lineup of four models: Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro Fold, and Pixel 9 Pro XL. However, a recent report indicates that these flagship devices may not debut with the latest Android 15, instead opting to run on last year’s Android 14, marking a significant shift from Google’s previous launches. Pixel 9 Series Expected to Launch Without Android 15 is a surprising turn and we’ll look into why.

Pixel 9 Series Expected to Launch Without Android 15

A Surprising Shift in Software

Despite the usual practice of launching new Pixel devices with the latest Android OS, the Pixel 9 series appears to be breaking this tradition. Android 15, which has been available in beta to developers for several months and reached “platform stability” in June, will reportedly not be ready for the Pixel 9 launch. This delay means that, for the first time, Google‘s flagship smartphones may launch with an older operating system, Android 14.

Enhanced Features Despite OS Delay

Even without Android 15, the Pixel 9 series will bring several enhancements, including faster charging speeds, which users eagerly anticipate. Additionally, storage configurations for the new models have been leaked, providing more choices for consumers. The Pixel 9 will offer 128GB and 256GB storage options, while the Pro models will come in 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, and a massive 1TB configuration, catering to users with varying storage needs.

Commitment to Long-Term Software Support

One of the standout features of the Pixel 9 series is Google’s commitment to long-term software support. The company has pledged to provide OS updates, security patches, and Pixel feature drops for up to 7 years. This promise, initially made for the Pixel 8 series, extends to the Pixel 9 series, ensuring software support until 2031. This extended support period highlights Google’s focus on offering a sustainable and secure user experience over the long term.

What to Expect on Launch Day

As the launch date approaches, the Pixel 9 series will draw significant attention, not just for its hardware specs but also for the unusual software situation. While the absence of Android 15 at launch might be disappointing for some, the series still promises to deliver powerful performance, cutting-edge features, and a variety of storage options to suit different users.

For more updates on the Google Pixel 9 series and other tech news, be sure to visit What’s Hot in UAE.