分类： technology

In a significant leap for defence technology, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the United States have announced a groundbreaking collaboration to develop AI-powered autonomous drones. The partnership involves American high-tech arms developer Anduril Industries and Abu Dhabi’s EDGE Group, marking a pivotal moment in the UAE’s quest to enhance its domestic defence manufacturing capabilities and integrate cutting-edge artificial intelligence into aerial warfare systems. The joint venture will focus on designing and producing a new generation of combat-ready drones, named Omen, at a state-of-the-art 50,000-square-foot research and development centre in Abu Dhabi. The UAE is set to acquire the first 50 units, underscoring the government’s commitment to fostering home-grown advanced defence technologies. The Omen drone, characterized by its sleek and lightweight design, combines the vertical take-off capabilities of a helicopter with the range and speed of an airplane, making it ideal for deployment in diverse terrains, including maritime patrols, border security, and disaster relief. Shane Arnott, Anduril’s senior vice-president, emphasized that the project aims to disrupt traditional maritime patrol and special mission aircraft systems. Under the agreement, EDGE gains access to Anduril’s Lattice AI operating system, an advanced software platform enabling real-time coordination of multiple autonomous aircraft through a 3D command-and-control network. This AI-driven architecture is expected to provide militaries with unparalleled situational awareness and coordination, potentially revolutionizing air combat strategies. The Omen project is the first of several systems anticipated to emerge from this partnership, with EDGE investing nearly $200 million and Anduril committing $850 million in prior technology development. Production is slated to begin by 2028, with prototypes set for testing in the UAE next year. This collaboration builds on the US-UAE defence partnership announced during President Donald Trump’s visit to Abu Dhabi in May, which aims to promote joint capability development between the two allies. Since the launch of EDGE in 2019, the UAE has been steadily advancing its defence industry, reducing reliance on foreign suppliers and boosting exports of advanced military technology. For Anduril, founded by tech entrepreneur Palmer Luckey, this venture reflects growing confidence in the UAE’s defence ecosystem. For Abu Dhabi, it solidifies its position as a regional innovation hub for next-generation autonomous systems, where artificial intelligence and air power converge to shape the future of warfare.

The tech world is abuzz with mixed reactions from UAE influencers following Apple’s unveiling of the iPhone Pocket, a unique 3D-knitted accessory designed in collaboration with fashion icon Issey Miyake. Scheduled for release on Friday, the product has sparked a range of opinions, from admiration for its boldness to amusement over its unconventional design. Priced between Dh550 and Dh845, the iPhone Pocket is designed to accommodate any iPhone and other pocketable items, offering both long and short strap options. However, Apple has confirmed that the product will not be available in the UAE, leaving local tech enthusiasts curious about its potential future launch. Prominent UAE-based tech influencer Emkwan praised the product as a trendsetter, highlighting Apple’s move into lifestyle accessories. Meanwhile, tech geek Aaron Jon acknowledged the product’s practicality despite its initial strangeness, noting its alignment with modern demands for hands-free convenience. Tech blogger Saurabh Kishu speculated that Apple is testing the waters with limited releases, suggesting that the UAE’s appetite for premium and fashion-tech items could drive future demand. Online, the product has been met with both amusement and skepticism, with some users comparing it to a “cut-up sock” while others appreciated its nod to Apple’s history. Emkwan also emphasized the significance of the Issey Miyake collaboration, recalling Steve Jobs’ fondness for the designer. Aaron Jon predicted that the iPhone Pocket could pave the way for similar innovations, as the demand for convenience continues to shape tech trends.

In a groundbreaking move, Abu Dhabi has officially unveiled the commencement of commercial operations for fully autonomous vehicles, marking a significant milestone in the realm of transportation technology. This initiative positions the UAE capital as a global leader in the adoption of cutting-edge mobility solutions. The driverless vehicles, equipped with state-of-the-art artificial intelligence and advanced sensor systems, are set to revolutionize urban transport by enhancing safety, efficiency, and sustainability. The launch underscores Abu Dhabi’s commitment to innovation and its vision for a smart, connected future. Meanwhile, in the sports arena, Luanzinho emerged as a national hero, securing a hard-fought draw for the UAE in a crucial World Cup playoff match against Iraq. His stellar performance not only salvaged the game but also reignited hopes for the team’s World Cup aspirations.

As Microsoft officially ended support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, businesses across the UAE are being urged to transition to Windows 11 Pro and the next generation of Copilot+ PCs. This move marks a significant shift in the computing landscape, as unsupported systems become vulnerable to cyberattacks, posing a critical risk for a region rapidly advancing its digital economy. Microsoft, in collaboration with its regional distributor Logicom, is pushing organisations to adopt these new technologies to ensure security, efficiency, and future readiness. Windows 11 Pro, designed for hybrid work environments, integrates advanced security features such as Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 2.0, Secure Boot, and Virtualization-based Security (VBS), offering robust protection against modern threats. The operating system boasts 99.7% compatibility with existing business applications, facilitating a seamless transition for enterprises reliant on legacy systems. Alongside Windows 11, Microsoft is introducing Copilot+ PCs, which leverage Neural Processing Units (NPUs) capable of over 40 trillion operations per second. These AI-powered devices enable local execution of AI models, enhancing productivity by automating routine tasks like document summarization, email drafting, and file organization. The hardware’s efficiency ensures longer battery life, faster performance, and enhanced offline capabilities. Matthias Scharer, Go-to-Market GM at Microsoft DPS EMEA, emphasized that the rise of AI-powered PCs is rapidly becoming the standard for organisations seeking smarter performance and robust security. To accelerate adoption, Logicom is collaborating with Microsoft’s partner network to provide early access to Copilot+ devices and Windows 11 Pro upgrades across the GCC. ASUS, a leading OEM, is also playing a pivotal role in this transition, offering lightweight and efficient Copilot+ laptops like the Zenbook A14. Mubasher Malik, Business Development Manager at ASUS, highlighted the importance of timely upgrades, warning that delaying the transition increases the risk of cyber incidents, data loss, and operational disruptions. For systems unable to meet Windows 11’s hardware requirements, Microsoft’s Windows 10 Consumer Extended Security Updates (ESU) program offers temporary security patches until October 13, 2026. However, this is not a long-term solution, and businesses are encouraged to modernize their systems promptly to stay competitive in the evolving digital landscape.

The UAE Cybersecurity Council has issued a stark warning to residents about the rising threat of zero-day attacks, emphasizing the need for heightened vigilance in protecting personal data. These attacks exploit undisclosed security vulnerabilities, allowing hackers to infiltrate devices without the user’s knowledge. Alarmingly, the Council highlighted that even a single WhatsApp call could serve as a gateway for cybercriminals to access sensitive information, including photos and messages. This revelation underscores the sophistication of modern cyber threats and the urgency for individuals to adopt robust security measures. To combat these risks, the Council has recommended several protective steps: regularly updating WhatsApp, avoiding suspicious links, enabling two-step verification, and using trusted security apps. Additionally, silencing unknown callers and relying solely on official sources for information can further mitigate risks. The warning follows a recent call by UAE officials at Gitex Global 2025 for residents to take greater responsibility for their online safety. Lt. Colonel Dr. Hamad Khalifa Alnuaimi, Head of Telecommunications at Abu Dhabi Police, stressed that everyone must play an active role in safeguarding themselves against cybercrime. As cyber threats evolve, the UAE continues to lead in raising awareness and promoting proactive cybersecurity practices.

In response to the unprecedented advancements in artificial intelligence (AI), China has introduced its upgraded AI Safety Governance Framework 2.0, marking a significant evolution in its approach to AI regulation. Released on September 15, 2025, by the National Technical Committee 260 on Cybersecurity, the framework shifts from a static risk management model to a comprehensive life cycle governance methodology. This update reflects the rapid technological breakthroughs, including the development of high-performance reasoning models and the open-sourcing of lightweight AI systems, which have lowered deployment barriers while raising new security concerns. The framework emphasizes the need to ensure AI remains under human control, safeguarding national security, social stability, and humanity’s long-term survival. It introduces new governance principles, such as trustworthy AI applications and the prevention of AI systems’ loss of control. Additionally, the framework highlights emerging risks, including AI’s potential to disrupt labor markets, exacerbate resource imbalances, and even develop self-awareness. By aligning with international governance practices, such as AI-generated content labeling and traceability, China aims to contribute to global AI safety efforts and foster international cooperation.