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Google To Launch AI Hub In Saudi Arabia, Aiming For $71B GDP Boost

The tech giant also plans to develop local AI solutions, and train regional talent to foster innovation and entrepreneurship.

Published

4 days ago

November 9, 2024

Nour Nasir

google to launch ai hub in saudi arabia aiming for $71 billion gdp boost

Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund (PIF)

Google has announced plans to set up a cutting-edge artificial intelligence (AI) hub in Saudi Arabia, a move aimed at accelerating technological growth and economic development across the wider gulf region. The ambitious project aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, an initiative that champions technology and innovation as central to economic diversification away from the oil industry.

According to Google, the hub has the potential to contribute as much as $71 billion to Saudi Arabia’s economy. The initiative will likely speed up the adoption of AI across industries such as healthcare, retail, and financial services — not only within Saudi Arabia but also throughout the wider MENA region and beyond.

Yasir Al Rumayyan, Governor of Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), highlighted the importance of the project for the Kingdom: “This partnership demonstrates PIF’s dedication to fostering an AI-friendly environment through investments in human capital and technology, upskilling thousands with cutting-edge tools to support our sustainable and innovative infrastructure goals,” he explained. Al Rumayyan also emphasized that Saudi Arabia’s combination of sector knowledge and long-term investment strategies makes it an ideal environment for global technology partnerships.

Also Read: Top Free AI Chatbots Available In The Middle East

A central aim of Google’s initiative is nurturing local talent. The AI hub will offer a range of training, research, and collaboration opportunities for developers, researchers, and entrepreneurs within Saudi Arabia. Google envisions training “millions” of people, helping to create a robust innovation ecosystem that supports entrepreneurship and ensures economic benefits reach all segments of society.

As international technology giants increasingly look to develop solutions tailored to regional needs, Google’s initiative reflects a progressive approach that leverages the strengths of local markets. With the potential to inject billions into the economy and strengthen digital capacities, Saudi Arabia could soon emerge as a prominent center for AI innovation in the Middle East.

Related Topics:Artificial Intelligence Google Saudi Arabia

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Galaxy Ring 2 May Launch Early As Apple Prepares Competing Device

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Galaxy Ring 2 May Launch Early As Apple Prepares Competing Device

The new wearable will likely sport a fresh design and battery improvements, while Apple is said to be exploring rival smart rings, bands, and glasses.

Published

6 days ago

November 7, 2024

Nour Nasir

galaxy ring 2 may launch early as apple prepares competing device

Recent reports from the Korean platform Naver hint that Samsung’s Galaxy Ring 2 could debut “slightly ahead” of its expected release timeline. However, no specific dates have been confirmed as yet.

A January launch (coinciding with the Galaxy S25 Ultra) seems unlikely, while a summer release wouldn’t be much of a deviation from the original Galaxy Ring’s timing. This leaves a speculative window between the two dates, though it would be unusual for Samsung to schedule a standalone event solely for the Galaxy Ring.

With only limited information available, it remains unclear if Samsung will opt for a surprise unveiling in January or stay close to the anticipated July launch. Should the rumors of an early release prove accurate, a January debut alongside the Galaxy S25 lineup is within the realm of possibility.

In addition to the timing of the upcoming release, reports also point to notable upgrades for the Galaxy Ring 2. A sleeker design and improved battery life are likely, while there are also mentions of new features, although specific details have not been disclosed.

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Alongside the Galaxy Ring 2 news, rumors are circulating about Apple’s plans for wearable technology. Sources indicate that Apple is working on a ring-style device and exploring additional options, such as band-style wearables and smart glasses.

Although the concept of an Apple smart ring is not entirely new — Apple has previously filed patents for ring and glasses technology — the nature of the potential “band-type” device remains ambiguous. This could be an entirely new wearable format, or potentially similar to devices like the Whoop band.