Dubai, October 17, 2023 – Gitex Global 2023, a pivotal event in the world of technology, opened on Monday with the esteemed presence of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and the Ruler of Dubai. This five-day exhibition is a stage for groundbreaking announcements that are shaping the future of technology.
Revolutionizing Government Services with ‘Citizen Companion’
Microsoft, in partnership with Kagool, introduced the ‘Citizen Companion,’ an AI-powered interface that promises to simplify tasks such as renewing driving licenses, applying for a UAE Golden Visa, or paying traffic fines. This innovative solution communicates with visitors in their native language, leveraging residents’ Emirates IDs to streamline government services, enhancing efficiency while reducing administrative burdens.
G42 Launches Core42: A Leap in AI Solutions and Services
G42, renowned for the world’s fastest supercomputer, unveiled Core42, a new entity focused on delivering AI solutions and services. Resulting from the merger of G42 Cloud, Injazat, and Inception, Core42, under the leadership of G42’s Group CTO Kiril Evtimov, aims to provide scalable cloud solutions, AI cloud infrastructure, and HPC infrastructure, with a specific focus on the public sector and regulated industries. The company also emphasizes AI research and implementation and cybersecurity to fortify organizations against data breaches and cyber threats.
e& Introduces the World’s First Autonomous Telecom Store: ‘EASE’
Telecommunications company e& unveiled ‘EASE’ (Etisalat by e& Autonomous Store Experience), the world’s first autonomous telecom store powered by AI. Combining AI, machine learning, facial recognition, smart gates, robotics, smart shelves, and self-checkout systems, ‘EASE’ revolutionizes the retail experience. Customers can enter using facial recognition or the etisalat by e& app, explore and purchase products and services, and exit with a seamless self-checkout process.
Careem’s Commitment to Sustainability
Ride-hailing giant Careem announced significant strides in sustainability at GITEX. Careem Bike, its e-bike service, has already displaced over 2.9 million tonnes of CO2 since its launch in 2020. In 2023, 53% of Careem ride-hailing trips have been completed with hybrid or electric vehicles. The UAE fleet now includes over 75 electric Teslas and more than 1,400 hybrids, reinforcing Careem’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions.
Abu Dhabi’s Autonomous Racing League and ASPIRE’s Autonomous Vehicle
The Abu Dhabi Autonomous Racing League (A2RL) was launched at GITEX Global 2023, along with the unveiling of the first autonomized Dallara Super Formula, SF23. This autonomous vehicle, created by ASPIRE, is set to compete in the inaugural race on April 28, 2024, at the Yas Marina Circuit. A2RL integrates AI, autonomy, and extreme sports to drive innovation in future mobility. The event will also feature autonomous car races, drone races, and dune buggy races.
Call for AI Regulations
Omar Sultan Al Olama, the UAE’s Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, addressed the need for enhanced governance in light of the widespread adoption of AI technology. He emphasized the importance of addressing ethical questions surrounding AI’s decision-making capabilities, especially in situations where autonomous weaponry may come into play. Al Olama acknowledged that a Geneva Convention or a rule of law may be necessary as technology evolves.
Gitex Global 2023 continues to be a platform where cutting-edge technology and innovation converge, setting the stage for a future shaped by technological advancements and ethical considerations.
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