Latest news with #TheLoop
Scoop
22-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Scoop
SONGHUBS: A Story On Collaboration
Press Release – APRA – AMCOS APRA AMCOS' flagship collaborative songwriting program, SongHubs, has unveiled a brand-new documentary, SongHubs: A Story on Collaboration, celebrating the stories and experiences of leading songwriters and producers across Aotearoa and Australia. Filmed as part of the program's 100th SongHubs celebrations, the documentary provides a rare glimpse inside some of its most pivotal songwriting pairings of the past eleven years, featuring songwriters and producers from Auckland, London, Melbourne and Sydney including Bic Runga, Chris Tamwoy, Jordan Rakei, Josh Fountain, Alice Ivy, AR/CO, and Telenova. Ivor Novello nominated singer/songwriter and producer, Jordan Rakei, was inspired to write acclaimed album The Loop after attending a 2022 SongHubs event in London and curating their own SongHubs in Tāmaki Makaurau in 2023. 'The Loop was a massive collaboration album,' Tokoroa-born Rakei explains. 'That was actually inspired by my time with the cross-collaboration with APRA AMCOS and SongHubs. I can't really do a solo album anymore, I just love collaborating.' Since its inception in 2013, SongHubs has provided opportunities for over 2,000 emerging and established songwriters across over 30 locations worldwide, pairing them with local, national and global creatives in a collaborative, professional studio setting and cementing its position as one of the region's most exciting and innovative programs for music creators. SongHubs has evolved from a straight-forward writing camp to a highly sought-after collaborative writing program, providing participants with new skills and connections to help build their career and produce commercially successful music, with over 200 songs released and approx. NZD$7 million in royalties earned. To date, more than 6,000 tracks have been co-written in languages including te reo Māori, Indian, Korean, Portuguese and First Nations languages from collaborators including CHAII, Courtney Barnett, Stan Walker, JessB, and Troye Sivan. Bic Runga, award-winning singer/songwriter/producer and APRA Writer Board Representative, explains: 'I wasn't a natural co-writer. I always wrote by myself. And so SongHubs got me out of my really insular sort of songwriting style. And if you're lucky enough to have any SongHubs away from your home base, you really connect with people and the relationships just go on and it's really, really something.' 'From a Māori worldview perspective, you know, music has nothing to do with 'industry' – it's pure magic. And that's the essence of what I think we need to keep remembering. It's sort of spiritual, you know? And I think, sometimes, when you get too 'industried out', it's good to remember what the purpose of music actually is. It's a really human experience.'
Scoop
22-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Scoop
SONGHUBS: A Story On Collaboration
APRA AMCOS' flagship collaborative songwriting program, SongHubs, has unveiled a brand-new documentary, SongHubs: A Story on Collaboration, celebrating the stories and experiences of leading songwriters and producers across Aotearoa and Australia. Filmed as part of the program's 100th SongHubs celebrations, the documentary provides a rare glimpse inside some of its most pivotal songwriting pairings of the past eleven years, featuring songwriters and producers from Auckland, London, Melbourne and Sydney including Bic Runga, Chris Tamwoy, Jordan Rakei, Josh Fountain, Alice Ivy, AR/CO, and Telenova. Ivor Novello nominated singer/songwriter and producer, Jordan Rakei, was inspired to write acclaimed album The Loop after attending a 2022 SongHubs event in London and curating their own SongHubs in Tāmaki Makaurau in 2023. 'The Loop was a massive collaboration album,' Tokoroa-born Rakei explains. "That was actually inspired by my time with the cross-collaboration with APRA AMCOS and SongHubs. I can't really do a solo album anymore, I just love collaborating.' Since its inception in 2013, SongHubs has provided opportunities for over 2,000 emerging and established songwriters across over 30 locations worldwide, pairing them with local, national and global creatives in a collaborative, professional studio setting and cementing its position as one of the region's most exciting and innovative programs for music creators. SongHubs has evolved from a straight-forward writing camp to a highly sought-after collaborative writing program, providing participants with new skills and connections to help build their career and produce commercially successful music, with over 200 songs released and approx. NZD$7 million in royalties earned. To date, more than 6,000 tracks have been co-written in languages including te reo Māori, Indian, Korean, Portuguese and First Nations languages from collaborators including CHAII, Courtney Barnett, Stan Walker, JessB, and Troye Sivan. Bic Runga, award-winning singer/songwriter/producer and APRA Writer Board Representative, explains: 'I wasn't a natural co-writer. I always wrote by myself. And so SongHubs got me out of my really insular sort of songwriting style. And if you're lucky enough to have any SongHubs away from your home base, you really connect with people and the relationships just go on and it's really, really something." "From a Māori worldview perspective, you know, music has nothing to do with 'industry' - it's pure magic. And that's the essence of what I think we need to keep remembering. It's sort of spiritual, you know? And I think, sometimes, when you get too 'industried out', it's good to remember what the purpose of music actually is. It's a really human experience."
Hi Dubai
19-05-2025
- Climate
- Hi Dubai
Can Dubai Control Its Climate? Exploring Tech-Driven Weather Solutions
Dubai faces some of the harshest weather conditions in the world. In summer, temperatures often rise above 45°C, and with high humidity, it can feel much hotter. On certain days, the heat index crosses 60°C, making it difficult to stay outdoors for long. For a fast-growing city built in the desert, this kind of weather is not just uncomfortable. It affects how people live, how buildings are designed, and how the city plans for the future. As climate change continues to raise global temperatures, cities like Dubai are under pressure to find better ways to deal with extreme heat. The urban setup with tall buildings, traffic, and concrete roads tends to trap heat, making the environment even warmer. This brings up a big question. Can a city control its climate, or at least find ways to manage it more effectively? Dubai is already exploring different solutions. One example is the cloud seeding program, where aircraft release particles into clouds to encourage rain. There are also new projects like The Loop, a 93-kilometre climate-controlled pathway designed to give residents a cooler, shaded space to walk and cycle. The city is also working on large solar-powered desalination plants to secure clean water for the future. Can these ideas really make a difference in how we live with extreme weather? In this article, we explore the steps Dubai is taking to face its climate challenges through innovation, planning, and science. Understanding the Challenge: Dubai's Climate in Numbers Dubai's climate is characterized by extreme heat, high humidity, and minimal rainfall, presenting significant challenges for urban living and infrastructure. Temperature and Humidity Dubai experiences a hot desert climate, with average high temperatures exceeding 40°C during the summer months, particularly in July and August. The highest recorded temperature in Dubai reached 50.1°C in July 2023. Humidity levels are notably high, especially near coastal areas, averaging between 50% and 60% throughout the year. In the summer, humidity can soar above 90%, exacerbating the discomfort caused by high temperatures. Rainfall Patterns Rainfall in Dubai is scarce and primarily occurs during the winter months. The city receives an average annual precipitation of approximately 110.7 mm. However, in April 2024, Dubai experienced its heaviest rainfall in 75 years, with over 142 mm falling within a 24-hour period, leading to widespread flooding and infrastructure challenges. Urban Heat Island Effect The urban heat island (UHI) effect contributes to higher temperatures in densely built areas compared to surrounding rural regions. In Dubai, this phenomenon results in urban areas being 3.5°C to 4.5°C warmer than neighboring rural zones. Factors such as extensive use of concrete and asphalt, high-rise buildings, and limited green spaces amplify the UHI effect, impacting outdoor thermal comfort and increasing energy demands for cooling. Energy Demand for Cooling The extreme heat in Dubai leads to substantial energy consumption for cooling purposes. Air conditioning systems account for a significant portion of energy use in buildings, with estimates indicating that cooling can represent 60% to 70% of peak electricity consumption in the region. Impact on Health, Productivity, and Infrastructure The high temperatures and humidity levels pose health risks, including heat-related illnesses and decreased outdoor activity. Productivity can decline due to discomfort and the need for frequent breaks in cooled environments. Infrastructure is also affected; for instance, the intense heat can cause materials to expand and degrade more quickly, while sudden heavy rainfall events, like the one in April 2024, overwhelm drainage systems, leading to flooding and damage to roads and buildings. Understanding these climatic challenges is crucial for developing effective strategies to enhance Dubai's resilience and ensure the well-being of its residents. Cloud Seeding: Can Rain Be Engineered? Cloud seeding is a weather modification technique employed to enhance precipitation by introducing substances into clouds that encourage rainfall. This method is particularly valuable in arid regions like the United Arab Emirates (UAE), where natural rainfall is scarce. How Cloud Seeding Works The process involves dispersing materials such as silver iodide, potassium iodide, or hygroscopic salts into the atmosphere. These substances serve as nuclei around which moisture can condense, forming raindrops. In the UAE, aircraft equipped with flares release these particles into suitable cloud formations, promoting precipitation. UAE's Cloud Seeding Initiatives The UAE has been actively implementing cloud seeding operations to address water scarcity. The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) conducts approximately 300 cloud seeding missions annually, targeting clouds that have the potential to yield rainfall. Effectiveness and Scientific Perspectives Studies suggest that cloud seeding can enhance rainfall by up to 10-15% in humid conditions and up to 30-35% in more arid environments. However, the effectiveness of cloud seeding remains a topic of scientific debate. While some research indicates positive outcomes, others argue that the results are inconclusive and that more comprehensive studies are needed to ascertain its efficacy fully. Environmental and Ethical Considerations The use of chemical agents in cloud seeding raises environmental concerns, particularly regarding the long-term effects on ecosystems and water quality. Additionally, ethical questions emerge about the manipulation of weather patterns and the potential unintended consequences on neighboring regions. These considerations necessitate careful evaluation and regulation of cloud seeding practices. Recent Developments and Public Discourse In April 2024, the UAE experienced unprecedented rainfall, leading to significant flooding in areas like Dubai. This event sparked discussions about the role of cloud seeding in such extreme weather occurrences. However, experts and the NCM clarified that no cloud seeding operations were conducted during the storm, attributing the heavy rainfall to natural weather systems and climate change factors. Cloud seeding represents a proactive approach by the UAE to augment its water resources and mitigate the challenges posed by its arid climate. While the technique offers potential benefits, it also underscores the importance of ongoing research, environmental monitoring, and ethical considerations to ensure sustainable and responsible application. District Cooling: Air Conditioning on a City Scale District cooling is a centralized method of providing cooling services to multiple buildings through a network of insulated pipes that distribute chilled water from a central plant. This approach is particularly effective in hot climates like Dubai, where cooling demands are substantial. Benefits of District Cooling District cooling systems offer several advantages over traditional air conditioning methods: Energy Efficiency : These systems can reduce energy consumption by up to 50% compared to conventional cooling methods, contributing to lower greenhouse gas emissions. : These systems can reduce energy consumption by up to 50% compared to conventional cooling methods, contributing to lower greenhouse gas emissions. Cost Savings : By centralizing the cooling process, operational and maintenance costs are significantly reduced for building owners and tenants. : By centralizing the cooling process, operational and maintenance costs are significantly reduced for building owners and tenants. Environmental Impact: The use of treated sewage effluent (TSE) in district cooling processes minimizes freshwater usage, aligning with sustainability goals. Key Players in Dubai Dubai's district cooling sector is led by major providers: Empower : As the world's largest district cooling services provider, Empower supplies over 1.64 million refrigeration tons (RT) across various developments in Dubai. : As the world's largest district cooling services provider, Empower supplies over 1.64 million refrigeration tons (RT) across various developments in Dubai. Tabreed: Also known as the National Central Cooling Company, Tabreed operates numerous plants across the UAE, delivering efficient cooling solutions to key infrastructure projects. Regulatory Framework To ensure the efficient and fair provision of district cooling services, Dubai has implemented regulatory measures: Executive Council Resolution No. 6 of 2021 : This resolution establishes a comprehensive framework for licensing, service standards, pricing, and dispute resolution within the district cooling sector. : This resolution establishes a comprehensive framework for licensing, service standards, pricing, and dispute resolution within the district cooling sector. Regulatory and Supervisory Bureau (RSB): The RSB oversees compliance with technical standards, approves service charges, and ensures consumer protection in the district cooling market. District cooling represents a strategic approach for Dubai to manage its cooling needs sustainably, offering energy efficiency, cost savings, and environmental benefits. Urban Heat Management Through Smart Infrastructure Dubai is actively implementing smart infrastructure solutions to mitigate the urban heat island effect and enhance thermal comfort for its residents. These initiatives encompass the use of reflective building materials, cool roof systems, smart shading, and real-time environmental monitoring. Reflective Building Materials and Cool Roof Systems To combat heat absorption, Dubai is adopting high-albedo materials in construction. Reflective glass facades are increasingly used in commercial buildings to reduce solar heat gain, thereby lowering cooling demands. Cool roof technologies, such as those provided by Matrix Cool Roof, utilize nanotechnology-based ceramic coatings that can reduce roof temperatures by up to 35%, enhancing indoor comfort and reducing energy consumption. Thermal Insulation Requirements Dubai Municipality mandates specific insulation criteria for all new constructions to improve energy efficiency and reduce cooling loads. These regulations drive the adoption of high-performance insulation materials, ensuring that buildings are better equipped to handle the region's extreme temperatures. Smart Shading and Pedestrian Comfort The city is enhancing pedestrian comfort through smart shading solutions. Projects like The Loop, a 93-kilometer sustainable pathway, aim to provide shaded, pedestrian-friendly routes that encourage walking and cycling, contributing to reduced vehicular emissions and improved public health. Air-Conditioned Bus Shelters Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has introduced air-conditioned bus shelters equipped with smart technologies to improve commuter comfort. These shelters not only provide respite from the heat but also feature amenities like Wi-Fi and real-time transit information, enhancing the overall public transportation experience. Integration of Temperature Sensors Advanced buildings in Dubai, such as the Burj Khalifa, utilize Integrated Building Management Systems (IBMS) that monitor temperature, humidity, and air quality in real time. These systems adjust HVAC operations dynamically to maintain optimal indoor conditions while maximizing energy efficiency. Through these multifaceted approaches, Dubai is setting a precedent in urban heat management, demonstrating how smart infrastructure can create more livable and sustainable urban environments in extreme climates. Green Building Standards and Sustainable City Models Dubai has been at the forefront of sustainable urban development, implementing comprehensive green building standards and pioneering sustainable city models to address environmental challenges and enhance the quality of life for its residents. Green Building Regulations and Specifications In 2011, Dubai Municipality introduced the Green Building Regulations and Specifications (GBRS) for government buildings, extending the mandate to all new buildings in 2014. These regulations encompass 79 specifications aimed at improving energy efficiency, water conservation, and indoor environmental quality. In 2016, the municipality launched the Al Sa'fat Dubai Green Building System, a rating framework designed to encourage innovation and integration of green technologies in building design, thereby reducing energy consumption and carbon footprint. LEED-Certified Buildings Dubai has embraced the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification system to benchmark and recognize sustainable buildings. LEED-certified buildings in the city have demonstrated significant environmental benefits, including up to 34% lower CO₂ emissions, 25% less energy consumption, and 11% less water usage compared to conventional buildings. Notable examples include the Burj Khalifa, which achieved LEED O+M Platinum Certification, and the Museum of the Future, recognized for its innovative design and sustainability features. The Sustainable City: A Model for Eco-Friendly Living The Sustainable City in Dubai serves as a pioneering example of sustainable urban planning. This self-contained suburb features solar panels on rooftops and parking structures, car-free residential clusters, shaded streets, and biodome greenhouses for urban farming. The community's design promotes walkability and reduces reliance on vehicles, contributing to lower carbon emissions. Additionally, the city utilizes recycled greywater for irrigation and incorporates wind towers to enhance natural ventilation, creating a comfortable microclimate. Through these initiatives, Dubai demonstrates its commitment to sustainable development, integrating green building practices and innovative city planning to create environmentally responsible and livable urban spaces. Artificial Intelligence in Weather Forecasting and Management Dubai is increasingly leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance weather forecasting and management, aiming to mitigate the challenges posed by its arid climate and rapid urbanization. The National Center of Meteorology (NCM) in the UAE has adopted AI technologies to improve the accuracy and efficiency of weather predictions. Collaborations with international tech firms, such as G42 and NVIDIA, have led to the development of hyper-local forecasting systems. These systems utilize generative downscaling models to provide faster and more cost-effective simulations, enabling the prediction of extreme weather events by learning the small-scale physics of the region. AI's role extends to early warning systems, where it aids in the proactive management of weather fluctuations. For instance, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has partnered with the NCM to enhance the dissemination of awareness and warning messages to the public, ensuring timely responses to adverse weather conditions. In the realm of traffic management, AI-driven systems analyze real-time data from cameras, sensors, and GPS devices to reduce road congestion. Dubai's Smart Traffic Center employs AI to dynamically control traffic lights, adjusting their timing based on current road conditions, thereby lowering emissions and improving traffic flow. AI also plays a pivotal role in event planning and cooling load forecasts. By analyzing historical data, AI can forecast potential traffic issues for upcoming events, recommending improved traffic management strategies. Additionally, AI assists in predicting electricity consumption patterns, which is crucial for managing cooling loads in buildings, especially during peak summer months. Furthermore, the UAE is exploring the use of AI to optimize cloud seeding operations. By combining satellite and radar data, AI algorithms can identify the best times and locations for cloud seeding, potentially increasing rainfall and enhancing water security in the region. Through these multifaceted applications, Dubai demonstrates its commitment to integrating AI into weather forecasting and management, aiming to create a more resilient and sustainable urban environment. Water Conservation as Climate Adaptation Dubai faces significant water scarcity risks due to its arid climate, limited natural freshwater resources, and increasing demand from a growing population. To address these challenges, the city has implemented various strategies focusing on water conservation and efficient management. Smart Irrigation Systems In public areas such as parks and gardens, Dubai employs smart irrigation systems that optimize water usage. These systems utilize real-time data, including soil moisture levels and weather forecasts, to adjust watering schedules, thereby reducing water waste. For instance, the Green Spine project incorporates recycled water and smart irrigation to maintain greenery efficiently. DEWA's Smart Water Grid The Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) has developed a Smart Grid strategy to enhance water distribution efficiency. This includes the deployment of smart water meters that allow for real-time monitoring of water consumption, enabling both consumers and the utility to detect leaks and manage usage effectively. Water-Efficient Landscaping Dubai promotes weather-adaptive landscaping practices, such as xeriscaping, which involves using drought-resistant native plants like bougainvillea and date palms. These plants require less water and are well-suited to the local climate, contributing to significant water savings in urban landscaping. Through these integrated approaches—smart irrigation, advanced water management systems, and sustainable landscaping—Dubai aims to mitigate water scarcity risks and promote sustainable urban living in the face of climatic challenges. Public Policy, Investment, and Regional Implications Dubai is actively pursuing ambitious public policies and strategic investments to address climate challenges and promote sustainable development. The UAE Energy Strategy 2050 aims to triple the contribution of renewable energy and invest AED 150 to AED 200 billion by 2030 to meet the country's increasing energy demand. Similarly, the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050 targets producing 75% of Dubai's energy requirements from clean sources by 2050, positioning the city as a global hub for clean energy and green economic practices. Key entities like the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) and the Dubai Future Foundation play pivotal roles in implementing these strategies. DEWA focuses on enhancing energy efficiency and integrating renewable energy sources, while the Dubai Future Foundation fosters innovation and international partnerships to drive sustainable initiatives. Dubai's proactive approach serves as a model for other desert cities worldwide, demonstrating how strategic investments in clean energy and sustainable infrastructure can mitigate environmental challenges and promote economic growth. Investments in weather-control technologies, such as cloud seeding, are part of Dubai's broader efforts to address water scarcity and climate adaptation. While these initiatives involve significant upfront costs, they are considered more cost-effective in the long term compared to the potential economic impacts of climate change, which could result in substantial GDP losses if unaddressed. Through these comprehensive strategies and investments, Dubai aims to create a resilient and sustainable urban environment that balances economic development with environmental stewardship. Despite the bold headlines and high-tech ambitions, the idea of truly controlling the climate remains more a hope than a guarantee. Scientific limits, ethical concerns, and unpredictable natural systems all remind us that we're still far from mastering nature. What we can do—what Dubai is showing us in real time—is how to respond to extreme conditions with a mix of innovation, urgency, and practicality. Dubai has become a kind of living experiment in climate adaptation. Through cloud seeding, district cooling, AI-driven forecasting, and sustainable design, the city is testing how far technology can go in protecting people from the heat. Some ideas show promise, others raise questions, but the effort itself offers a valuable lesson. When environmental conditions feel unchangeable, how we plan, build, and think about our surroundings becomes even more important. Rather than chasing total control over the weather, maybe the smarter goal is to adapt wisely. To build cities that stay livable as the climate shifts. To use science not to bend nature completely, but to work with it more intelligently. Dubai's approach isn't perfect, but it's pushing boundaries the rest of the world is still only beginning to imagine. And perhaps that's the point—not to engineer the climate, but to engineer a future that can live with it. Also read: Weather in Dubai: Year-Round Climate Guide and Temperature Insights Discover Dubai's unique weather patterns, from its hot desert summers to pleasant winters. Plan your trip with insights on the best times to visit and enjoy outdoor activities. The Science Behind Dubai's Rainfall Projects: Can We Control the Weather? Discover how Dubai's cloud seeding projects are increasing rainfall and cooling the climate. Explore the science behind weather modification and the future of rain enhancement. UAE Research Program for Rain Enhancement Science Opens 6th Cycle for Innovative Proposals The UAE Research Program for Rain Enhancement Science (UAEREP) has officially launched its 6th cycle for research proposals, offering grants of up to US$1.5 million (AED 5.511 million) for up to three winning projects.
Geek Tyrant
16-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Geek Tyrant
Fun New Trailer For SMURFS Movie Featuring All-Star Cast Led By Rihanna — GeekTyrant
A fun second trailer has been released for the upcoming animated/live-action hybrid movie, Smurfs , featuring an all-star cast led by Rihanna as Smurfette. The movie is directed by Chris Miller ( Shrek the Third , Puss in Boots ), from a screenplay written by Pam Brady ( South Park , The Loop , Ruby Gillman: Teenage Kraken ), based on the characters and works of Peyo. The film's synopsis reads: "To save their world, they must come to ours." When Papa Smurf (John Goodman) is mysteriously taken by evil wizards, Razamel and Gargamel, Smurfette leads the Smurfs on a mission into the real world to save him. With the help of new friends, the Smurfs must discover what defines their destiny to save the universe.' The movie also stars James Corden, Nick Offerman, JP Karliak, Daniel Levy, Amy Sedaris, Natasha Lyonne, Sandra Oh, Octavia Spencer, Nick Kroll, Hannah Waddingham, Alex Winter, Maya Erskine, Billie Lourd, Xolo Maridueña, with Kurt Russell and John Goodman as Papa Smurf. This looks cheesy, but like something you could take your younger kids to this summer to beat the heat. Check out the trailer below, and watch Smurfs in theatres on July 18th.
Gizmodo
13-05-2025
- Automotive
- Gizmodo
Elon Musk Brings Starlink to Saudi Arabia as U.S. Oligarchs Join Trump in Middle East
Trump bragged about the multi-billion dollar deals between Saudi Arabia and Big Tech. Elon Musk says his satellite internet provider Starlink, a part of SpaceX, has been approved in Saudi Arabia for maritime and aviation use. The billionaire made the announcement while being interviewed at the Saudi-U.S. Investment Forum in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on Tuesday, a conference where several American oligarchs have joined President Donald Trump to cut deals with the Saudi royal family. Musk 'thanked the kingdom for approving Starlink,' referring to the Saudi government, without explaining further, and teased that he'd like to bring his nascent robotaxis to Saudi Arabia. 'Yeah, so really you can think of a car or future cars as being robots on four wheels. And you know, I think it would be very exciting to have autonomous vehicles here in the kingdom, indeed, if you're amenable,' Musk said 'You heard it here from Elon,' the interviewer said. 'He's bringing his robotaxi to the kingdom.' Musk didn't offer any specifics and is long known as a bullshitter, so it's not clear how serious the billionaire is about bringing robotaxis to the Middle East. Tesla plans to launch a trial of its robotaxi service in Austin, Texas, in June, but details on that venture are still scarce. Musk also promoted his tunnel-digging venture, The Boring Company, while on stage, explaining that his goal was to 'solve traffic' by digging tunnels underground. The billionaire hyped The Boring Company relentlessly during Trump's first term but has only delivered the most pathetic results. Musk billed his ideas, like the Hyperloop and The Loop, as next-generation, high-speed answers for transportation. In the end, he's only delivered a slow-moving Tesla driven by a human and hobbled public works projects. But that didn't stop Musk from insisting that his only functional tunnel ride in Las Vegas, 'feels like teleporting for one part of Vegas to another.' Most people do not describe the experience like that. Musk's America PAC, one of the political arms the billionaire started to help get Trump elected in 2024, shared a video on X that was billed as Musk's 'full remarks' but seemed to start mid-conversation. Judging from reports out of the conference, it appears Musk had earlier been talking about humanoid robots. 'My prediction, actually, for humanoid robots is that ultimately they will be tens of billions,' Musk said, according to CNBC. 'I think everyone will want to have their personal robot. You can think of it, like, as though you had your own personal C-3PO or R2-D2. But even better.' President Trump was supposed to be the main attraction at the forum on Tuesday, and his presence in Saudi Arabia was extremely weird, to say the least. Trump opened his speech at the conference with organizers playing Lee Greenwood's song 'God Bless the USA,' as though it was the national anthem or something. Trump stood there in silence for the entirety of the song as the room all stood in silence. The camera periodically cut to Saudi leader Mohammad bin Salman, sometimes known as MBS, and he appeared to be stifling laughter. Trump, who earlier had trouble keeping his eyes open, largely focused on U.S. domestic politics and his personal grievances during the speech, which may not have been exceptional if he had been on American soil. Historically, it's more normal for U.S. presidents to expand their focus when traveling overseas and not bring up petty matters in an international setting. These aren't normal times, of course. Several American business leaders were spotted in Riyadh on Tuesday, including Palantir CEO Alex Karp, BlackRock CEO Larry Fink, and Amazon CEO Andy Jassy. Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang even announced his company would be selling 18,000 of its latest AI chips to Saudi Arabia, according to CNBC. But not every tech oligarch was on hand for the forum. In fact, Trump called out Apple's CEO saying during his speech that, 'Tim Cook isn't here,' apparently upset about that for some reason. 'This week there are multi-billion dollar commercial deals with Amazon, Oracle, AMD, they're all here… Uber, Qualcomm, Johnson & Johnson, and many more,' Trump said. 'So I want to congratulate everybody. So many great business executives, many of you… most of you, I know.' Trump went on to say 'they weren't that happy when they saw me,' apparently referring to his election in Nov. 2024, 'and now they're saying, sir, you're doing a great job, thank you very much. It's amazing what a rising market will do.' And Trump isn't altogether wrong. OpenAI's Sam Altman, who criticized the president during his first term, was spotted meeting with both MBS and Trump in Saudi Arabia on Tuesday. Altman has been rallying behind Trump, as AI boosters believe the Republican president can help inject money into their technology. Trump has held close ties to MBS and the Saudi royal family, even after the leader became an international pariah during Trump's first term. Washington Post contributor Jamal Khashoggi was murdered at the order of MBS in Istanbul, Turkey, but Trump has always cozied up to the most brutal dictators around the world while denigrating the leaders of liberal democracies. President Trump said Tuesday that Saudi Arabia would be buying $600 billion of military equipment. And Trump's tech buddies, from Musk to Altman, are happy to go along for the ride as long as it helps their bottom line.
