Business

Apple unveils blazing-fast iPad Air twice as fast as its predecessor

Published

1 year ago

March 5, 2025

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Apple has introduced the latest iPad Air, now equipped with the powerful M3 chip, making it nearly twice as fast as its predecessor. Designed for seamless performance, the new iPad Air is available in two sizes — 11-inch and 13-inch — offering users more flexibility than ever before.

Unveiled on March 4, the new iPad Air is the first-of-its-kind to feature advanced graphics, improved speed, power efficiency, and AI-driven capabilities through Apple Intelligence.

The device supports Apple Pencil Pro, the Magic Keyboard, and iPadOS 18, enhancing its versatility for students, professionals, and creatives alike.

Here’s a look at what’s inside the new device:

The M3 chip delivers 35 per cent faster CPU performance and 40 per cent improved graphics over M1, with hardware-accelerated ray tracing for ultra-realistic gaming and rendering. The Neural Engine is now 60 per cent faster, unlocking smarter AI features across apps.

Built for Creativity and Productivity

Designed for versatility, the new iPad Air supports Apple Pencil Pro, the all-new Magic Keyboard, and iPadOS 18. The 13-inch model provides more screen space, while the 5G connectivity and enhanced cameras ensure seamless remote work and content creation.

Supercharged performance with M3

iPad Air with M3 empowers users to be productive and creative wherever they are, from aspiring creatives using demanding apps and working with large files, to travelers editing content on the go.

Get smarter with Apple Intelligence

Apple Intelligence delivers helpful and relevant intelligence. In Photos, the Clean Up tool makes it easy to remove distracting elements in images, and natural language search allows users to search for just about any photo or video by simply describing what they are looking for.

With Image Wand in the Notes app, users can make notes more visually engaging by turning rough sketches into delightful images, just by drawing a circle around the sketch with their Apple Pencil.

Users can even circle empty space within a note, and Image Wand will gather context from the surrounding area to create a relevant image that complements the note and makes it more visual.

Things go faster with ChatGPT

With ChatGPT seamlessly integrated into Writing Tools and Siri, users can tap into ChatGPT’s expertise without jumping between applications, so they can get things done faster and easier than ever before

The latest software update introduces:

Math Notes for real-time equation solving
Smart Script for refined handwritten notes
Audio transcription for searchable recordings
Redesigned Control Center for quick access

Siri now integrates ChatGPT, letting users access AI-powered assistance without switching apps.

Pricing and Availability

Pre-orders began on March 4, with availability from March 12.

(Source: apple.com)

Announcements

Good news for businesses: Sharjah slashes fees and fines

Published

3 hours ago

June 30, 2026

Michael Gomes

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Businesses in Sharjah can now benefit from a range of temporary fee reductions after Sharjah Police unveiled a new package of incentives aimed at easing costs and supporting the emirate’s business community.

The measures, introduced in line with a decision by the Sharjah Executive Council, include 50% discounts on several security-related fees, along with reduced fines and lower training costs for companies.

What discounts are available?

Under the new initiative, eligible businesses will receive:

50% off security permit renewal fees for commercial activities
50% off security system subscription fees
50% reduction on eligible violations and fines
20% off mandatory training programme fees for companies

Sharjah Police said the initiative is designed to support commercial establishments, encourage business sustainability and further strengthen the emirate’s position as an attractive destination for investment.

How long will the discounts last?

The incentives will be available for three months from the date the decision comes into effect.

Businesses seeking more information about the discounts and eligibility can contact the Sharjah Police Call Centre on 901.

Business

UAE fuel prices drop sharply: Here’s what you’ll pay from July 1

Published

5 hours ago

June 30, 2026

Michael Gomes

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Motorists across the UAE will pay significantly less at the pump from July 1 after the UAE Fuel Price Committee announced a sharp reduction in petrol and diesel prices for July 2026.

All fuel grades have become cheaper compared to June, with Super 98 falling by 55 fils per litre, while diesel has dropped by 73 fils per litre.

Fuel prices for July

Super 98: Dh3.40 per litre (down from Dh3.95)
Special 95: Dh3.29 per litre (down from Dh3.83)
E-Plus 91: Dh3.21 per litre (down from Dh3.76)
Diesel: Dh3.60 per litre (down from Dh4.33)

The new rates take effect on Tuesday, July 1, 2026.

The UAE Fuel Price Committee reviews retail fuel prices every month, with rates adjusted in line with movements in global oil and energy markets.

Announcements

Dubai to build region’s first falcon market and transform the creek into night-time destination

Published

1 day ago

June 29, 2026

Michael Gomes

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Dubai is set to welcome a one-of-a-kind falcon market and a spectacular new lighting experience along Dubai Creek after Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, approved a series of major development projects aimed at enhancing the city’s cultural, tourism and public spaces.

The new initiatives, announced by Dubai Municipality, include the Dubai Falcon Market, the first integrated falcon market of its kind in the region, and the Dubai Creek Lighting Project, which will transform one of the city’s oldest landmarks into a vibrant night-time destination.

Region’s first integrated falcon market

Designed to celebrate the UAE’s rich falconry heritage, the Dubai Falcon Market will combine tradition with modern architecture inspired by the wings of a falcon.

Spanning around 50,000 square feet and built at an estimated cost of Dh50 million, the market will feature specialist falcon shops, equipment stores, cultural exhibition spaces, heritage events, a dedicated veterinary clinic and visitor experiences, all within a purpose-built destination showcasing one of the country’s most treasured traditions.

The project also forms part of Dubai’s wider strategy to develop rural and desert areas while preserving Emirati heritage and creating new attractions for residents and tourists.

Dubai Creek to shine with new night-time experience

Dubai Creek, one of the emirate’s most historic waterfronts, is also set for a major makeover.

The Dubai Creek Lighting Project will introduce an innovative lighting system stretching across 8km of the creek, illuminating promenades, heritage markets, waterfront walkways, building façades and key entry points.

The aim is to transform the area into a lively evening destination while highlighting its architectural and cultural significance.

Once completed, visitors can expect enhanced pedestrian areas, interactive public spaces and a striking visual experience designed to bring new life to the historic district after sunset.

The project is expected to be completed in the first quarter of 2027.

Commenting on the projects, Sheikh Hamdan said Dubai remains committed to developing people-focused urban spaces that combine innovation, sustainability and advanced technology while preserving the emirate’s identity and cultural heritage.

The latest initiatives form part of Dubai’s long-term vision to create world-class public spaces, strengthen the tourism and creative sectors, and enhance the quality of life for residents and visitors alike.