News

Space42 Unveils “Thuraya One” Satellite Smartphone

The Android 14 device will offer uninterrupted communication in remote areas without additional hardware.

Published

4 months ago

March 3, 2025

space42 unveils thuraya one satellite smartphone

Thuraya, the satellite communications division of Space42, has revealed its new Thuraya One smartphone — an Android 14 device with integrated satellite capabilities. Announced at Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2025, the phone is designed to keep users connected even in areas beyond traditional cellular coverage. Utilizing 5G and 4G, combined with Thuraya’s satellite infrastructure (including the newly launched Thuraya 4 satellite) the device offers reliable and secure connectivity in practically any environment.

Space42 is currently showcasing the Thuraya One at its stand during MWC in Barcelona, running from March 3-6, 2025. As one of the largest global connectivity events, MWC serves as the perfect stage for the big reveal of this next-generation smartphone that allows travelers and professionals to stay connected without having to carry extra satellite communication gear.

As well as satellite connectivity, the Thuraya One has dual-SIM slots, allowing users to switch between networks effortlessly. The phone supports SIM cards from over 370 Thuraya Roaming Partners worldwide, and customers can use a single number for both cellular and satellite communication.

Ali Al Hashemi, CEO of Yahsat Space Services, Space42, stated, “Staying connected is no longer a convenience, it is a necessity. Thuraya One delivers seamless, secure, and reliable connectivity anywhere, pushing what is possible in mobile communication. With this advanced capability, we are accelerating our position as a Non-Terrestrial Networks operator and executing our Direct-to-Device strategy to bring uninterrupted connectivity to billions of people and devices worldwide”.

Also Read: Dubai Teams Up With Elon Musk’s Boring Company For “Dubai Loop”

The Thuraya One doesn’t just offer reliable connectivity; it also packs high-end hardware. Featuring a 6.67” AMOLED display for vivid visuals, a Qualcomm Octa-core Kryo processor for smooth performance, and a robust triple-camera system with a 50MP main lens, the smartphone is built to handle a variety of needs. Its IP67 rating ensures durability against dust and water, while a fast-charging battery provides up to 26 hours of talk time on 5G—making it ideal for field professionals and adventurers alike.

Thuraya One is now available through Thuraya’s extensive network of over 140 service partners and distributors worldwide.

News

Google Launches Flow And Gemini Photo-To-Video In MENA

Creators in the Middle East and North Africa can now use Gemini to turn photos into short videos, and access Google’s new AI filmmaking tool, Flow.

Published

3 days ago

July 11, 2025

Nour Nasir

Google

Google has rolled out new AI-powered creative tools across the Middle East and North Africa, including a photo-to-video feature in Gemini and the regional launch of its AI filmmaking platform, Flow.

The photo-to-video tool is available to Gemini Advanced users on Pro and Ultra plans. It allows users to transform still images into animated, sound-enhanced video clips up to eight seconds long. To use the feature, users select “Videos” from the Gemini prompt menu, upload an image, and describe the desired animation and audio. The tool then generates a short video that can be shared or downloaded directly from the interface.

Designed to animate static moments, the feature supports a range of creative use cases — from bringing illustrations and paintings to life to adding movement to everyday scenes or natural landscapes.

Alongside this, Google is launching Flow: a more advanced platform for AI-assisted video creation. Built on Google’s Veo, Imagen, and Gemini models, Flow is designed for both professional filmmakers and beginners looking to build scenes, experiment with visuals, or explore new storytelling formats.

Flow includes tools such as:

Camera Controls for setting motion paths, angles, and perspectives.
Scenebuilder for extending or linking shots with smooth transitions and consistent subjects.
Asset Management for organizing prompts and generated material.

Also Read: Getting Started With Google Gemini: A Beginner’s Guide

Flow is now accessible in Arabic and across MENA markets. Google reports over 40 million Veo 3 video generations have been made across Gemini and Flow in the past seven weeks alone. All content includes a visible AI watermark and an invisible SynthID marker to ensure traceability.

Both Flow and Gemini’s photo-to-video tools are available through Google’s subscription-based AI tiers.