Chameleon phones and smart contact lenses: the gadgets of MWC 2025
As the world's biggest wireless technology fair, the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona is packed with manufacturers showing off their latest gadgets and inventions.
This year 's stands have looked to wow visitors with an ultra-lifelike humanoid robot, colour- changing smartphones, smart contact lenses and many more. 'Spatial sound' in phone calls Mobile equipment builder Nokia and operator Vodafone say their '3D spatial sound' will offer users 'truly immersive audio' on phone calls, with the person on the line sounding as if they are in the same room.
Where current calls use only a single audio channel to transmit the voice, the new system allows for sounds seeming to come from different directions. Dubbed 'Immersive video and audio services' (Ivas), the technology requires handsets fitted with two microphones.
That combined with the need for a high-speed 5G connection means the technology could take several years to reach most users.
High-fidelity robot
Sporting a black dress, red jacket and long brown hair, ultra-realistic humanoid robot Amira is on display by Emirati telecom operator Etisalat.
While imitating human features with high fidelity, Amira's movements remain recognisably slow and jerky.
Elliott White of the robot's creators Engineered Arts said that the device coud be connected to any generative AI 'large language model' to allow interactions with people.
Remote driving
There is no shortage of connected cars on the floors at MWC, but visitors were able to testdrive a vehicle 3,000 kilometres away in Finland at the stand of congress organiser GSMA.
The setup -- nothing but a wheel and some screens -- was created by Estonian firm Elmo, which has fitted the cars with a custom controller and multiple cameras, alongside Nokia.
Chameleonic smartphone
Chinese manufacturer Realme has developed a smartphone that changes colour as the outside temperature shifts.
The body of its 14 Pro line, textured to look like a seashell, is infused with thermochromic pigments that shift to blue below 16 degrees Celsius (61 Fahrenheit) or white when it gets warmer.
The smartphone maker admits that the purely decorative feature has a limited shelf-life.
'The cold-sensitive color-changing function will gradually lose effect due to daily use,' Realme says.
Smart contact lenses
Dubai-based startup Xpanceo is aiming to fit smart features including an 'extended reality' display, health monitoring and wireless power reception into a flexible contact lens.
Demonstrator models at their stand show off proofs of concept for each of the capabilities that co-founder Roman Axelrod says they want to pack into a single prototype device 'by the end of 2026'.
For now the devices are relatively clunky, with a large metal coil needed to receive the wireless power to light up a single pixel on one demonstration lens.
Those components would be miniaturised using 'two-dimensional materials... only one atom thick,' Axelrod said.
'That is the scientific knowhow that differentiates us'. Solar-powered laptop Chinese PC builder Lenovo has built solar panels into the lid of its Yoga Solar laptop to extend battery life. Its 84 solar cells are able to feed power into the device even when not exposed to direct sunlight, Lenovo says.
The laptops will be fitted with a power monitoring system to manage when the solar panel comes into play.
'This innovation allows the solar panel to absorb and convert enough direct sunlight in 20 minutes to power up to one hour of video playback on the PC,' Lenovo said.
'Cat Eye' to spot cataracts
Spanish mobile operator Telefonica has joined forces with startup Edgendria Innovacion to build its 'Cat Eye' tool.
Users can carry out an ophthalmological exam on themselves to determine whether they have a cataract serious enough to require surgical intervention.
A simple photo of each eye is churned through an AI-powered platform to detect the ailment.
This means doctors can 'delegate certain tasks to their team so that they can intervene at the right time, making better use of their time,' Telefonica said.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Biz Bahrain
4 days ago
- Biz Bahrain
AliExpress Revolutionizes the Online Shopping Experience with Electric Vehicles
AliExpress is pushing the boundaries of online shopping by enabling customers to purchase the latest electric vehicles (EVs) directly from their homes, marking a significant milestone for e-commerce globally. This unprecedented service will launch in June during the platform's Summer Sale, offering consumers an innovative way to embrace sustainable transportation. At the initial stage, the cars will only be sold to the UAE with the plan to expand to other GCC markets. The Ideal Fit Aligned with the UAE's Vision 2031, AliExpress will simplify the purchasing process for the latest brand-name EVs delivered from China. The UAE Vision 2031 seeks to position the nation as a leader across multiple sectors while enhancing the quality of life for its residents and ensuring sustainable development for future generations. This initiative serves as a perfect match for the country's aspirations, providing an accessible solution for consumers and promoting eco-conscious choices. By offering more affordable EVs, AliExpress is broadening the appeal of electric mobility across diverse demographic groups, benefiting all income brackets and contributing positively to the UAE's economy. Fueling the Future of Transportation The electric vehicle market in the UAE is witnessing significant growth, driven by government incentives and robust infrastructure investments. Currently, there are over 70,000 EVs in the UAE, and this number is expected to reach 100,000 by 2027. Residents are increasingly drawn to electric vehicles due to their environmental advantages, such as zero emissions and reduced air pollution, fostering a cleaner, healthier environment. Additionally, consumers appreciate the lower operating costs that EVs offer compared to traditional gasoline-powered vehicles. Transparency at Its Finest With AliExpress, purchasing the latest EV shipped from China has never been easier or more affordable. Through the platform's Big Save Channel, customers can conveniently select their desired model with AliExpress 15 years of e-commerce expertise. Once purchased, the electric vehicle will arrive via sea freight from China. This innovative approach is revolutionizing the way you shop for big-ticket items. Expect renowned brands like BYD, Geely, Jetour, and Toyota at significant savings, making these cutting-edge electric vehicles even more accessible to the Emirati consumer. The electric vehicle market in the United Arab Emirates is experiencing swift growth, driven by consumers' increasing demand for eco-friendly transportation, supportive government initiatives, and the establishment of a comprehensive charging infrastructure. Additionally, the country's commitment to sustainability has fostered a positive environment for electric vehicle adoption. In this dynamic landscape, AliExpress is stepping in to enhance accessibility by offering customers the ability to purchase the latest electric vehicles through its platform, further accelerating this shift toward sustainable mobility.
Gulf Insider
20-05-2025
- Gulf Insider
UAE Industrial Exports Reach $53bn in 2025
The UAE industrial sector is witnessing remarkable growth with billions of dollars of investments and thousands of new jobs bring created. Sheikh Hamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Managing Director of the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority, attended the opening of the fourth edition of 'Make it in the Emirates', taking place until May 22 at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre under the theme 'Advanced Industries. Accelerated.' The fourth edition of Make it in the Emirates is drawing broad local and international participation, bringing together top decision-makers from both the public and private sectors, as well as entrepreneurs, investors, industrialists, experts, innovators, and financial institutions. More than 700 companies are showcasing their innovative products at Make it in the Emirates 2025 as it is expected to welcome more than 30,000 visitors. The event plays a pivotal role in empowering the industrial sector, accelerating technological transformation, and reinforcing the UAE's position as a global hub for industry and investment. It also contributes to the UAE's comprehensive economic development in line with the goals of National Strategy for Industry and Advanced Technology. Make it in the Emirates serves as a platform to facilitate knowledge and expertise exchange, foster partnerships, enhance self-sufficiency, localise supply chains, and strengthen industrial resilience. It empowers Emirati talent in the industrial sector by introducing them to key opportunities in industry and advanced technology, while also supporting startups and driving the growth and competitiveness of the UAE industries, particularly through advanced technology, Industry 4.0 solutions, and AI applications. In his opening address at the event, Dr. Sultan Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, said: 'The UAE has laid firm foundations for a robust industrial sector that contributes to economic diversification. This nation has proven its resilience and ability to adapt to change. 'Industry plays a vital role in creating added economic value, improving productivity, generating employment opportunities, building advanced and resilient infrastructure, developing an export-oriented production base, and boosting the GDP. 'Countries with a strong industrial foundation enjoy sustainable economic growth, ensure a prosperous and bright future, and contribute meaningfully to the advancement of societies. 'Investing in manufacturing is investing in an advanced economy. Every investment in this sector creates a multiplier effect by stimulating the growth of related sectors. 'Amid the shift toward advanced industries that rely heavily on cutting-edge technologies in production processes such as artificial intelligence, robotics, and advanced materials, the world is now witnessing the dawn of a new industrial era — one led by ideas, accelerated by technology, and shaped by agility and adaptability to evolving changes. 'Guided by the vision of our leadership, innovation, determination, and perseverance form the foundation of our progress, while flexibility, agility and productivity define our approach. 'We launched the National Strategy for Industry and Advanced Technology to increase the sector's contribution to GDP, support national products, enhance supply chains, and accelerate the adoption of Fourth Industrial Revolution technologies, and artificial intelligence. 'In the UAE, we don't see AI as merely a tool or a new technology — we recognise it as a fully-fledged economic sector. 'Globally, AI revenues are expected to exceed $1.5tn by 2040. As witnessed during US President Donald Trump's visit to the UAE last week, the first phase of the UAE-US AI data center was launched in Abu Dhabi and it is set to become the largest AI campus outside the United States. 'I take this opportunity to congratulate our leadership, H.H. Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Ruler of Abu Dhabi and National Security Advisor, and to all those involved in such strategic projects that strengthens the UAE's position in AI and the new economy. 'To support this direction toward adopting advanced technology and AI, the MoIAT launched the Technology Transformation Program and the Industrial Technology Transformation Index, which have supported over 500 factories with financing facilities worth AED4.6bn ($1.25bn). 'We also focus on enabling future industries — including renewable energy technologies, Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), space, semiconductors, smart chips, AI data center components, energy storage batteries, autonomous equipment, and advanced construction materials. 'The UAE's industrial sector has witnessed significant growth. In 2024, industrial exports reached AED197bn ($53.6bn) — a 68 per cent increase compared to 2021. 'We commend our colleagues across all ministries, particularly the Ministry of Economy, for expanding strategic trade through Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements (CEPAs), raising total foreign trade to over AED5tn ($1.4tn). 'Through the National In-Country Value (ICV) Programme, which supports the industrial sector by redirecting procurement to local products and services — local spending has reached a cumulative AED347bn ($94.5bn), and over 22,000 job opportunities have been created for Emiratis. 'In line with the leadership's directives to strengthen bridges of cooperation, we also launched the Industrial Partnership for Sustainable Economic Development with Jordan, Bahrain, Egypt, Morocco, Qatar, and Türkiye. 'This collaboration has advanced regional supply chain integration through joint projects worth $5bn ($1.4bn) in sectors of mutual importance. 'In implementation of the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Make it in the Emirates has been enhanced to support national industrial growth further. 'This year's edition features several strategic initiatives, most notably, increasing the value of offtake opportunities from AED143bn ($39bn) to over AED168bn ($45.7bn) over the next ten years, an increase of AED25bn ($6.8bn) compared to last year, to localise over 4,800 products within the country. The event will also witness the launch of the Emirates Growth Fund under Emirates Development Bank as an AED1bn ($272m) investment platform. The fund aims to empower SME projects in strategic sectors including manufacturing, healthcare, food security, and advanced technology by providing long-term capital and the strategic support necessary for sustainable growth and effective expansion; offering competitive financing solutions exceeding AED40bn ($10.9bn) over five years from national banks, including: Emirates Development Bank First Abu Dhabi Bank Mashreq Bank Emirates NBD Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank Wio Bank The event also offers more than 1,200 job opportunities for Emiratis through the Industrialist Career Fair, in collaboration with the Nafis program and several national companies. Furthermore, a special pavilion has been dedicated to Emirati crafts and heritage industries to support our industrial heritage and national culture in line with the 'Year of Community', featuring 216 artisans. In addition, several major announcements are set to be made in the coming days. Al Jaber said: 'The UAE offers world-class infrastructure, a strategic location connecting East and West, flexible legislation, advanced cybersecurity, competitive energy costs, a high quality of life, skilled global talent, specialized industrial cities and top-ranked ports, airports, and logistics networks that enable our products and exports to reach more than three billion people. 'Most importantly, the UAE is known for its solid reputation for trust and credibility. We must harness these advantages and expand globally. 'We invite local and international investors to capitalise on UAE's status as a preferred investment destination as well as the opportunities at Make it in the Emirates to form long-term, high-value partnerships. 'We also call on public and private sector entities to support local industry through the National ICV Programme – boosting competitiveness, improving productivity, and ensuring supply chain resilience. 'In line with our leadership's directives to empower future generations, we encourage our youth to join the industrial sector through employment or entrepreneurship. 'The UAE offers everything you need to succeed and pioneer the industries of tomorrow. Every factory we build and every machine we operate is a new hope and a step forward in our nation's journey, ensuring that the Made in the Emirates mark continues to stand as a symbol of quality, excellence and a shared source of national pride'. Also read: UAE Beach Closed to Swimmers After Oil Found in Sea
Syyaha
23-04-2025
- Syyaha
realme 14 Pro Launches : The Best Unbreakable Phone with Fastest Chipset and World's First Cold-Sensitive Color-Changing Design
Al Riyadh, Saudi Arabia | April 23rd, 2025 — realme, the world's fastest-growing smartphone brand, today officially launched the highly anticipated realme 14 Pro in Saudi Arabia. As the inaugural device of the newly revitalized realme Number Series, the 14 Pro sets a bold new standard for mid-range smartphones by delivering flagship level Design with Best-in-Class Drop, Heat, and Water Resistance, Fastest Chipset, and Massive Battery —all at an accessible price point. With the debut of the world's first cold-sensitive color-changing smartphone and world's first triple flash camera, realme continues its mission to bring cutting-edge innovation to a wider audience. So Unique: The World's First Cold-Sensitive Color-Changing Smartphone realme introduces the world's first cold-sensitive color-changing smartphone with the 14 Pro, featuring a stunning Pearl White variant co-designed with Nordic studio Valeur Designers. Inspired by oceanic elegance, its back panel—crafted through a 30-step process with real seashell powder—shifts from pearl white to ocean blue below 16°C using advanced thermochromic pigments. Each device is uniquely textured, making every phone one-of-a-kind. For a refined alternative, the Suede Grey edition offers a premium vegan suede finish, blending fashion with sustainability. So unbreakable: Built for Daily Life and Adventure The realme 14 Pro is built for the bold — delivering military-grade drop resistance that withstands rigorous tests, including 2-meter drops, backed by a 200% enhancement in overall reliability. Whether it's accidental falls or rough daily use, this device is engineered to endure. Adding to its toughness is best-in-class IP69 water and dust resistance, capable of surviving submersion in 2-meter-deep water for up to 72 hours, resisting hot water up to 85°C, and supporting underwater shooting. With unmatched durability and dual-layer protection, the realme 14 Pro sets a new benchmark for rugged performance in its segment. So Fastest Chipset: Built for High speed and Smooth Gaming ExperienceThe realme 14 Pro delivers a leap in mid-range smartphone performance, purpose-built to elevate work, play, and everything in between. At its core is the MediaTek Dimensity 7300 Energy 5G chipset, a cutting-edge 4nm processor engineered for exceptional power efficiency and fluid responsiveness. With an AnTuTu score exceeding 750,000, the 14 Pro handles gaming, content creation, and multitasking with with up to 12GB RAM + 14GB Dynamic RAM and 256GB of internal storage, users can enjoy seamless app switching, faster load times, and plenty of space for media, files, and games. Under the hood, the 14 Pro features a 6,000mm² 3D Vapor Chamber Cooling System—the largest in its segment—ensuring the device stays cool even during the most demanding gaming gamers, the 14 Pro offers a 120FPS experience in Mobile Legends: Bang Bang and smooth 90FPS gameplay in PUBG, Freefire and CODM. The built-in GT Boost Engine further enhances performance with AI Motion Control and AI Ultra Touch Control, delivering ultra-responsive gameplay and a competitive all this performance is the robust 6,000mAh Titan Graphite Battery, offering up to 10 hours of continuous gaming and 25 hours of video playback on a single charge. Thanks to realme's Flex Pack battery technology, energy consumption is optimized for longer endurance, while 45W SUPERVOOC fast charging and Bypass Charging Technology keep the device cool and efficient even during extended you're conquering virtual arenas, creating content on the go, or exploring the outdoors, the realme 14 Pro is engineered to keep up with your pace—and power your every Clear: Flagship Imaging with World's First MagicGlow Triple FlashThe realme 14 Pro brings flagship-level photography to the mid-range segment with its advanced 50MP Sony IMX882 OIS main sensor, featuring a large 1/1.95″ sensor size and 26mm focal length. Whether capturing sweeping cityscapes, atmospheric portraits, or finely detailed distant shots, every image taken with the 14 Pro tells a compelling visual story. Complementing the primary sensor is realme's breakthrough MagicGlow Triple Flash—the world's first triple soft flash system engineered specifically for low-light portrait photography. Integrated into the phone's signature 'Ocean Oculus' triple-camera and flash layout, the system transforms into a portable, studio-quality lighting setup when activated. It provides adjustable brightness and color temperature controls, ensuring true-to-life skin tones and balanced exposure even in the most complex lighting environments—be it nightlife scenes, indoor gatherings, or dimly lit venues. This powerful camera experience is enhanced by realme AI Clarity 2.0, which brings improved detail and realism to every shot. Additional AI-powered features like AI Ultra Clarity, and AI Eraser 2.0 allow users to refine their images with ease—removing distractions, enhancing faces, and sharpening scenes—turning everyday moments into share-worthy masterpieces. Moreover, realme 14 Pro supports AI Snap Mode to preserve split-second moments. At a maximum shutter speed of 1/10000s, the realme 14 Pro makes it easy to capture fast-moving subjects. With the 14 Pro, realme empowers creators and everyday users alike to capture stunning visuals, day or night, with ease and confidence. Brand Momentum in Saudi Arabiarealme continues to strengthen its presence in the Kingdom. According to counterpoints data, realme emerges as the fastest-growing smartphone brand in Saudi Arabia, with an impressive 470.6% year-over-year growth as of December 2024—a testament to its rising popularity and commitment to delivering innovation at every price and AvailabilityThe realme 14 Pro will be officially available for purchase starting April 23, priced at SAR 1,399. Customers can find the device at leading retailers across Saudi Arabia, including Jarir Bookstore, Noon, eXtra, Lulu, Nesto, Amazon, and authorized independent mobile Noon.
