< PreviousFEATURE 40 EDGE | February 2025 Can a new AI-powered platform redefi ne video creation and challenge TikTok’s dominance in the short-form video space? Former Google CEO Eric Schmidt is betting on it with Hooglee, an ambitious new venture aimed at democratising video content. Positioned as a direct rival to TikTok, Hooglee promises to empower creators with cutting-edge AI tools that make professional-quality videos accessible to everyone. But with the stakes this high, the question remains: will Hooglee live up to its name and alter the way we create and share videos? HOOGLEE: WHAT SETS IT APART? Unlike traditional social media platforms, Hooglee’s core proposition lies in its AI capabilities, which empower users to produce professional-quality videos with minimal eff ort. The platform off ers tools that simplify video editing, motion graphics, and special eff ects, making it accessible to creators of all skill levels. Whether you’re an aspiring infl uencer, a small business owner, or just looking to share moments with friends, Hooglee’s user-friendly interface and Hooglee’s focus on AI-powered creation tools could attract a diverse demographic of creators who value quality, versatility and innovation SOCIAL MEDIA /Altering the way we create and share videos advanced AI features promise to level the playing fi eld. One standout feature is its AI Content Assistant, which provides real-time suggestions for enhancing video quality, selecting trending music, and optimising for virality. Another is its Multilingual Video Creation Tool, enabling users to create videos in multiple languages simultaneously, broadening their reach to a global audience. A NEW ERA OF VIDEO CREATION Eric Schmidt, known for his pivotal role in Google’s growth and innovation, emphasised that Hooglee is not just about entertainment but also about empowerment. “Hooglee is designed to make video creation accessible to everyone, breaking down barriers that have traditionally limited creativity to a select few,” Schmidt said during the platform’s unveiling. The platform also integrates robust data privacy measures, addressing one of the key criticisms faced by its competitors, including TikTok. With growing concerns over data sovereignty and WILL HOOGLEE LIVE UP TO ITS NAME? Words by Anita Joseph Edge_Feb2025_40-41_Hooglee_13500736.indd 40Edge_Feb2025_40-41_Hooglee_13500736.indd 4004/02/2025 16:3004/02/2025 16:30FEATURE EDGE | February 2025 41 /Fostering a sense of community privacy, Hooglee aims to set a new standard in safeguarding user information while fostering a creative and engaging community. COMPETING WITH TIKTOK Despite its innovative features, Hooglee faces challenges in taking on TikTok’s deeply entrenched user base and cultural signifi cance. TikTok’s ecosystem thrives on community-driven trends, user collaboration, and an addictive algorithm that keeps users engaged. TikTok’s explosive popularity can be attributed to its unique blend of creativity, accessibility and addictive entertainment. The platform has mastered the art of short-form video content, providing users with a constant stream of engaging and easily digestible clips that cater to diverse interests. Its algorithm, known for its uncanny ability to curate content tailored to individual preferences, keeps users hooked by off ering videos that resonate with their tastes. One of TikTok’s standout features is its ease of use. The platform provides intuitive tools for creating videos, including fi lters, music libraries, and editing features, enabling anyone—from seasoned creators to fi rst-time users—to produce high-quality content. This accessibility has democratised content creation, allowing users from all walks of life to share their creativity. TikTok’s focus on trends and challenges fosters a strong sense of community. Viral challenges and hashtag campaigns encourage participation and interaction, making users feel part of a larger global movement. Additionally, its integration with music and pop culture has attracted artists, brands, and infl uencers, further amplifying its appeal. By combining personalisation, creativity and social engagement, TikTok has redefi ned how people create and consume digital content, solidifying its position as a cultural and technological phenomenon. For Hooglee to carve out its niche, it must not only provide superior tools but also foster a sense of community and engagement. Additionally, the platform’s commitment to user privacy could set it apart. With growing scrutiny of TikTok’s data practices, Hooglee’s emphasis on robust privacy measures may appeal to users and governments concerned about data security. LOOKING AHEAD While it’s too early to predict whether Hooglee will dethrone TikTok, it undoubtedly off ers a fresh perspective on video creation. By empowering creators with AI-driven tools and prioritising privacy, Hooglee has the potential to redefi ne the short-form video space. As the platform gains traction, the coming months will reveal whether Eric Schmidt’s ambitious vision can live up to its promise and reshape how we create, share and experience digital content. The question now is: can it capture the hearts of creators and audiences worldwide? Edge_Feb2025_40-41_Hooglee_13500736.indd 41Edge_Feb2025_40-41_Hooglee_13500736.indd 4104/02/2025 16:3104/02/2025 16:31FOCUS 42 EDGE | February 2025 Blaize, recognised for its purpose-built silicon and software solutions, is at the forefront of the booming Edge Computing market BUSINESS EDGE COMPUTING PIONEER GOES PUBLIC Words by Anita Joseph Edge_Feb2025_42-43_Spotlight_13501786.indd 42Edge_Feb2025_42-43_Spotlight_13501786.indd 4204/02/2025 11:1804/02/2025 11:18FOCUS EDGE | February 2025 43 $400M Qualified pipeline of prospective customers In a landmark development for the tech and investment worlds, Blaize, Inc., a leading provider of AI - enabled edge computing solutions, has offi cially gone public. Following its business combination with BurTech Acquisition Corp. (NASDAQ: BRKH), Blaize now operates as Blaize Holdings, Inc. and began trading on Nasdaq under the tickers “BZAI” and “BZAIW” starting January 14, 2025. REVOLUTIONISING AI AT THE EDGE Blaize, recognised for its purpose-built silicon and software solutions, is at the forefront of the booming edge computing market. Unlike traditional AI systems, Blaize’s technology is designed to process data locally, ensuring low latency, reduced power consumption, and enhanced data privacy. This positions Blaize as a key player in industries ranging from autonomous vehicles and IoT to smart cities and robotics. A HIGH-GROWTH OPPORTUNITY The move to Nasdaq comes with strong momentum: Blaize boasts a $400 million qualifi ed pipeline of prospective customers for 2025 and has established relationships with Tier 1 supply chain partners worldwide. The company’s proprietary solutions, uniting silicon and software, are setting new standards in optimising AI workfl ows from the edge to the core. “Today is an exciting milestone on Blaize’s journey of powering the next generation of computing,” said Dinakar Munagala, CEO of Blaize, in a blog on the company’s website. “AI-powered edge computing is the future due to its low power consumption, low latency, cost-eff ectiveness and data privacy advantages. Blaize is well-positioned with our full-stack hardware and software solution purpose-built for edge computing.” The combination with BurTech was fi nalised after shareholder approval on December 23, 2024, marking the beginning of a new chapter for Blaize. The listing is expected to attract a wave of investor interest, given the surge in demand for AI hardware solutions and the growing adoption of edge computing technologies. “We are pleased to announce the successful completion of our merger, marking a signifi cant milestone in bringing value for our shareholders,” said Shahal Khan, CEO and chairman of BurTech, in the Blaize blog. “AI-powered edge computing is redefi ning what is possible across a broad range of sectors, from security and monitoring to enterprise edge AI to autonomous systems. We’re so thrilled to partner with Blaize as it delivers the next generation of computing.” A PIONEERING MOVE FOR EDGE AI Blaize’s public debut underscores the rising prominence of AI-powered edge computing, a fi eld poised to disrupt traditional cloud-reliant AI models. As businesses seek cost-eff ective, scalable solutions, Blaize’s Nasdaq listing cements its position as a market leader and signals a bright future for the edge AI ecosystem. WHAT’S NEXT FOR BLAIZE? With its Nasdaq debut, Blaize Holdings, Inc. is now primed to accelerate its innovation and global reach. Investors and tech enthusiasts alike will be watching closely as the company works to redefi ne the boundaries of AI-enabled edge computing. Edge_Feb2025_42-43_Spotlight_13501786.indd 43Edge_Feb2025_42-43_Spotlight_13501786.indd 4304/02/2025 11:1804/02/2025 11:18GAMING 44 EDGE | February 2025 NVIDIA has introduced its most advanced consumer GPUs yet for gamers, creators, and developers — the GeForce RTX 50 Series Desktop and Laptop GPUs. Built on the NVIDIA Blackwell architecture, featuring fi fth-generation Tensor Cores and fourth-generation RT Cores, the GeForce RTX 50 Series brings signifi cant advancements in AI-driven rendering. This includes innovations in neural shaders, digital human technologies and improvements in geometry and lighting. “Blackwell, the engine of AI, has arrived for PC gamers, developers and creatives,” said Jensen Huang, founder and CEO of NVIDIA. “Fusing AI-driven neural rendering and ray tracing, Blackwell is the most signifi cant computer graphics innovation since we introduced programmable shading 25 years ago.” The GeForce RTX 5090 GPU — the fastest GeForce RTX GPU to date — features 92 billion transistors, providing over 3,352 trillion AI operations per second (TOPS) of computing power. The B l ack w ell ar chi t ec tur e ’ s innovations and DLSS 4 mean the GeForce RTX 5090 GPU outperforms the GeForce RTX 4090 GPU up to 2x. GeForce Blackwell comes to laptops with all the features of desktop models, bringing a considerable upgrade to portable computing, including extraordinary graphics capabilit i es and remarkable effi ciency. The B l ack w ell generation of NVIDIA Max- Q technology GPU extends battery life by up to 40%, and allows for thin and light laptops that maintain their sleek design without sacrifi cing power or performance. DLSS 4 debuts Multi Frame Generation to boost frame rates by using AI to generate up to three frames per rendered frame. It works in unison with the suite of DLSS technologies to increase performance by up to 8x over traditional rendering, while maintaining responsiveness with NVIDIA Refl ex technology. DLSS 4 also introduces the graphics industry’s fi rst real-time application of the transformer model architecture. Transformer-based DLSS Ray Reconstruction and Super Resolution models use 2x more parameters and 4x more compute to provide greater stability, reduced ghosting, higher details and enhanced anti- aliasing in game scenes. DLSS 4 will be supported on GeForce RTX 50 Series GPUs in over 75 games and applications the day of launch. NVIDIA Refl ex 2 introduces Frame Warp, an innovative technique to reduce latency in games by updating a rendered frame based on the latest mouse input just before it is sent to the display. Refl ex 2 can reduce latency by up to 75%. This gives gamers a competitive edge in multiplayer games and makes single-player titles more responsive. The power of neural rendering, DLSS 4 and the new DLSS transformer model is showcased on GeForce RTX 50 Series GPUs with Zorah, a new technology demo from NVIDIA. NVIDIA RTX 50 UNLEASHED Words by Anita Joseph Edge_Feb2025_44-45_Gaming_13498671.indd 44Edge_Feb2025_44-45_Gaming_13498671.indd 4404/02/2025 11:1904/02/2025 11:19GAMING EDGE | February 2025 45 AUTONOMOUS GAME CHARACTERS GeForce RTX 50 Series GPUs bring industry- leading AI TOPS to power autonomous game characters in parallel with game rendering. NVIDIA is introducing a suite of new NVIDIA ACE technologies that enable game characters to perceive, plan and act like human players. ACE-powered autonomous characters are being integrated into KRAFTON’s PUBG: BATTLEGROUNDS and InZOI, the publisher’s upcoming life simulation game, as well as Wemade Next’s MIR5. In PUBG, companions powered by NVIDIA ACE plan and execute strategic actions, dynamically working with human players to ensure survival. InZOI features Smart Zoi characters that autonomously adjust behaviors based on life goals and in-game events. In MIR5, large language model (LLM)-driven raid bosses adapt tactics based on player behavior, creating more dynamic, challenging encounters. AI FOUNDATION MODELS FOR RTX AI PCS Use cases span LLMs, vision language models, image generation, speech, embedding models for retrieval-augmented generation, PDF extraction and computer vision. NIM microservices include all the necessary components for running AI on PCs and are optimised for deployment on all NVIDIA GPUs. Showcasing how RTX enthusiasts and developers can use NIM microservices to build AI agents and assistants, NVIDIA will release a pipeline of NVIDIA NIM microservices and AI Blueprints for RTX AI PCs from top model developers such as Black Forest Labs, Meta, Mistral and Stability.AI. AI-POWERED TOOLS FOR CREATORS The GeForce RTX 50 Series GPUs supercharge creative workfl ows. RTX 50 Series GPUs are the fi rst consumer GPUs to support FP4 precision, boosting AI image generation performance for models such as FLUX by 2x and enabling generative AI models to run locally in a smaller memory footprint, compared with previous- generation hardware. The NVIDIA Broadcast app gains two AI- powered beta features for livestreamers: Studio Voice, which upgrades microphone audio, and Virtual Key light, which relights faces for polished streams. Streamlabs is introducing the Intelligent Streaming Assistant, powered by NVIDIA ACE and Inworld AI, which acts as a cohost, producer and technical assistant to enhance livestreams. Edge_Feb2025_44-45_Gaming_13498671.indd 45Edge_Feb2025_44-45_Gaming_13498671.indd 4504/02/2025 16:2904/02/2025 16:29GADGETS 46 EDGE | February 2025 DJI has cemented its reputation as the leader in the drone market, and the new DJI Flip proves the company has no plans to let go of its dominance. Priced from $439 the DJI Flip is a compact, foldable drone aimed at entry-level users who want advanced camera capabilities without the complexity or cost of higher-end models. At its core, the Flip is built around a 1/1.3-inch CMOS Quad-Bayer sensor, capable of capturing stunning 4K video at up to 60fps, slow-motion footage at 100fps, and HDR video for those who want vibrant, lifelike colors. Still photography is no afterthought, either, with the ability to shoot 12MP or 48MP images. The three-axis gimbal ensures stability, delivering smooth, professional-grade footage even in challenging conditions. The Flip also comes loaded with creative shooting modes that set it apart from other entry-level drones. Users can take panoramic shots, capture hyperlapse videos, or create automated “mastershots” that combine camera movement and subject tracking for quick, polished clips—ideal for vloggers and social media creators. For those who prefer to tweak their visuals in post-production, the Flip off ers D-Log M, a fl at color profi le that allows for custom color grading. In terms of usability, the Flip excels. Weighing just 249g, it sidesteps many of the legal restrictions The DJI Flip’s foldable design and pro-level features make it a standout choice for entry-level users imposed on larger drones, allowing it to be fl own with minimal red tape in most countries. Its folding design is equally noteworthy, with an innovative mechanism that allows all four propeller motors to stack neatly on top of each other, resulting in an incredibly compact form factor. Integrated propeller guards reduce the risk of damage during mishaps, and the downward-facing sensor enables the drone to land safely in the user’s palm, a feature that’s invaluable in uneven terrain. For those seeking a balance of aff ordability, portability, and performance, the DJI Flip ticks all the right boxes. It’s a near-perfect choice for fi rst-time drone users or content creators looking to elevate their projects without breaking the bank . DJI FLIP TAKES FLIGHT DRONE Edge_Feb2025_46-49_Gadgets_13503638.indd 46Edge_Feb2025_46-49_Gadgets_13503638.indd 4604/02/2025 16:3104/02/2025 16:31GADGETS EDGE | February 2025 47 The Honor Magic 7 Pro has arrived in the Middle East, combining cutting-edge hardware with a sleek design. Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite chip, it packs a vibrant 6.8-inch OLED display, a unique 200MP periscope telephoto camera, and IP69 water-resistance. At just 8.8mm thick, it also houses a long-lasting silicon-carbon battery 6.8-Inch OLED Display The Magic 7 Pro’s LTPO OLED screen supports a buttery-smooth 120Hz refresh rate, Dolby Vision, and a peak brightness of 1,600 nits. It’s built for HDR brilliance, with up to 5,000 nits for dynamic content. Honor’s NanoCrystal Shield ensures robust protection. 200MP Periscope Telephoto Camera A game-changer in photography, the 200MP telephoto lens supports 3x optical zoom and AI Super Zoom for clear, detailed shots up to 30x. Paired with a 50MP primary and 50MP ultrawide camera, it delivers versatility for creators. Snapdragon 8 Elite Chipset Qualcomm’s top-tier processor enables PC-level graphics and real-time AI rendering. Paired with 12GB RAM and 512GB storage, the Magic 7 Pro excels in multitasking and gaming performance. Silicon-Carbon Battery The 5,270mAh battery uses silicon- carbon technology to store more energy in less space. Combined with effi cient AI-driven power management, it ensures long-lasting performance in a slim 8.8mm design. IP68/IP69 Durability Dustproof, waterproof, and resistant to high-pressure water jets, the Magic 7 Pro can withstand the harshest conditions. Whether in a jacuzzi or caught in a storm, this phone is built to last. Android 15 with Google Gemini AI The Magic 7 Pro runs Android 15 with Google’s Gemini AI, off ering advanced features like translation and note-taking powered by Honor’s proprietary AI enhancements. The Magic 7 Pro delivers cutting-edge performance with a Snapdragon 8 Elite chip, a 200MP periscope camera, and unmatched durability FLAGSHIP POWER, SLEEK DESIGN, AND NEXT-LEVEL CAMERAS SMARTPHONE Edge_Feb2025_46-49_Gadgets_13503638.indd 47Edge_Feb2025_46-49_Gadgets_13503638.indd 4704/02/2025 11:2104/02/2025 11:21GADGETS 48 EDGE | February 2025 The W95B Mini LED and Z95B OLED TVs, revealed at CES 2025, bring cutting-edge picture quality, gamer-friendly features, and smart home integration to Panasonic’s fl agship lineup Panasonic is taking on Samsung and LG in the premium TV market with its fl agship W95B Mini LED and Z95B OLED models. These high-end TVs aim to set new benchmarks in picture quality, gaming performance, and design. The W95B Mini LED TV brings precision brightness and contrast to the forefront. With 2.5x more backlight zones than its predecessor and refi ned double area control, the W95B delivers deeper blacks and brighter highlights. Panasonic’s Hybrid Tone Mapping and real- time color tuning enhance HDR content, ensuring vibrant, lifelike images. The Z95B OLED series on the other hand, is Panasonic’s brightest OLED to date. Its next-generation Primary RGB Tandem Panel increases brightness by 40% while improving color purity. Meanwhile, the ThermalFlow cooling system keeps the panel performing consistently at its peak. Panasonic claims the Z95B off ers stunning contrast, richer color volume, and unmatched clarity. Both models cater to gamers, off ering AMD FreeSync Premium, NVIDIA G-SYNC, and a 144Hz refresh rate for ultra-smooth gameplay. True Game Mode delivers fi lm-grade color calibration for gaming, ensuring titles look exactly as intended. With ultra-low latency, these TVs promise to be a top choice for gamers seeking high performance. Beyond visuals, the TVs double as smart home hubs. Fire TV integration streamlines live TV, streaming platforms, and smart home control into one system. Alexa and Apple AirPlay compatibility add ease of use for controlling content and devices. Audio gets special attention as well. The W95B features a 20W subwoofer with options for external add-ons, while the Z95B’s 360-degree audio, co- designed with Technics, includes up-fi ring and side-fi ring speakers for an immersive soundstage. Dolby Atmos integration ensures theatre-like sound. With the W95B and Z95B, Panasonic is making a bold move to compete with the dominance of Samsung and LG. Combining cutting-edge features, high performance, and sleek design, these TVs are a serious contender in the premium market. PANASONIC GOES MINI LEDFLIGHT TV Edge_Feb2025_46-49_Gadgets_13503638.indd 48Edge_Feb2025_46-49_Gadgets_13503638.indd 4804/02/2025 16:3104/02/2025 16:31GADGETS EDGE | February 2025 49 Unveiled at CES 2025, the Galaxy Book5 360 is Samsung’s latest entrant in the 2-in-1 laptop space, blending performance, productivity, and portability. Powered by Intel’s second-generation Core Ultra processors with Neural Processing Units (NPUs) capable of 47 TOPs (trillion operations per second), the device promises a substantial leap in AI-driven functionality. One of the standout features is AI Select, a tool that simplifi es searching and multitasking by enabling users to retrieve information intuitively, similar to the way they interact with smartphones. AI capabilities also extend to creative tasks, with features like Photo Remaster, which automatically enhances image quality using advanced AI processing. Integration with Windows 11 via Microsoft Phone Link takes productivity even further, allowing Galaxy users to access AI features directly on their PC. Samsung’s Galaxy Book5 360 takes 2-in-1 laptops to the next level with smarter AI features, a sleek design, and seamless Galaxy ecosystem integration Honda Reveals Sleek New EV Prototypes at CES Honda has unveiled two electric vehicle prototypes, the 0 Saloon and 0 SUV, as part of its next-generation 0 Series line. Debuted at CES 2025 in Las Vegas, these EVs showcase Honda’s “Thin, Light, and Wise” design philosophy and feature its new Asimo OS for semi-autonomous, “eyes-off ” driving. The Saloon is a sporty four-door sedan with a minimalist design, sloping hood, and rectangular taillights that match the SUV’s bolder, mid-size frame. Inside, both vehicles feature spacious, digitised interiors with purple lighting and white seats. Production for the 0 Series will begin in 2026, launching fi rst in North America before expanding to Japan and Europe. The Galaxy Book5 360’s design is built around versatility. Its 360-degree hinge transforms the device from a laptop to a tablet with ease, making it ideal for both work and entertainment. The Dynamic AMOLED 2X display off ers a stunning 3K resolution and supports a buttery-smooth 120Hz refresh rate. With Vision Booster technology, the screen remains vibrant and easy to read even in bright outdoor conditions, and the reduced blue light emission helps prevent eye strain during long sessions. Battery life is another highlight. The Galaxy Book5 360 promises all-day productivity with up to 20 hours of battery life, ensuring that users can stay connected without frequent recharges. Audio performance also gets an upgrade, thanks to quad speakers with Dolby Atmos support. This setup delivers immersive sound, whether for video calls, streaming or gaming. The Galaxy Book5 360 positions itself as a powerful, versatile option for professionals and creatives alike, leveraging smarter AI, stunning visuals, and seamless connectivity to redefi ne what a premium 2-in-1 laptop can do. AI SMARTS MEET PREMIUM DESIGN LAPTOP Edge_Feb2025_46-49_Gadgets_13503638.indd 49Edge_Feb2025_46-49_Gadgets_13503638.indd 4904/02/2025 16:3204/02/2025 16:32Next >