< PreviousTIMELINE 20 EDGE | July-August 2025 TIMELINE 20 EDGE | July-August 2025 The ousting that almost ended Apple and the comeback that made history Steve Jobs, Steve Wozniak, and Ronald Wayne found Apple Computer. They launched the Apple I, a fully assembled personal computer kit Apple introduces the Apple II, one of the fi rst highly successful mass-produced microcomputers Apple launches the Macintosh, the fi rst personal computer with a graphical user interface and a mouse, revolutionising the way people interact with computers Steve Jobs returns to Apple after being ousted, steering the company away from near bankruptcy with innovative products and strategic partnerships, including an alliance with Microsoft Apple opens the fi rst Apple Retail Store and introduces the iPod Steve Jobs is ousted from Apple following a power struggle with the board and CEO John Sculley. Jobs goes on to found NeXT Inc., a computer platform development company / Steve Jobs, Co-founder of Apple Inc. THE STORY OF APPLE 1976 1977 1984 1997 20011985 / The name “iPod” was inspired by a line from the film 2001: A Space Odyssey Edge_July2025_ 20-21_Timeline_13644903.indd 20Edge_July2025_ 20-21_Timeline_13644903.indd 2003/07/2025 11:2203/07/2025 11:22TIMELINE EDGE | July-August 2025 21 TIMELINE EDGE | July-August 2025 21 Apple unveils the iPhone, with a touchscreen interface, internet capabilities, and a rich app ecosystem. The company also rebranded as Apple Inc. to refl ect its expanded focus beyond computers Apple launches the iPad, creating a new category of tablet computing and changing how people consume media and work on the go Steve Jobs passes away, leaving a legacy of innovation. Tim Cook takes over as CEO, continuing Apple’s growth with a focus on product design and global expansion Apple becomes the fi rst U.S. company to reach a $2 trillion market valuation, driven by strong sales of iPhones, services, and wearables like the Apple Watch 2007 2010 2011 2020 / The iPhone was originally codenamed “Purple” during its development / Tim Cook, CEO of Apple Inc. / Apple Marina Bay Sands is a floating Apple Store in Singapore Edge_July2025_ 20-21_Timeline_13644903.indd 21Edge_July2025_ 20-21_Timeline_13644903.indd 2103/07/2025 11:2303/07/2025 11:23NEWS 22 EDGE | July-August 2025 2X LinOSS outperformed leading models like Mamba by nearly twofold on ultra-long sequence prediction tasks In a breakthrough fusing neuroscience, phy sic s, and ar t i f icial inte lligence, researchers from MIT’s Computer Science and Artifi cial Intelligence Laboratory (CSAIL) have introduced a new class of AI models inspired by the rhythmic dynamics of the human brain. Dubbed LinOSS (Linear Oscillatory State-Space Models), the innovation signifi cantly boosts how machines process and learn from extremely long data sequences. Traditional AI models of ten struggle with complex patterns that stretch across long time frames, such as climate change trends, heartbeat signals, or fi nancial market fl uctuations. Although state-space models were developed to solve this, they ’ve been hampered by instability and heav y computational demands. MIT researchers T. Konstantin Rusch and Professor Daniela Rus tackled this head-on with LinOSS, which draws from the physics of forced harmonic oscillators, a concept widely observed in neural networks and brainwave dynamics. The result is a model that delivers stable, effi cient, and highly expressive predictions, even with datasets spanning hundreds of thousands of time steps. “LinOSS is our attempt to mathematically capture the brain’s stability and effi ciency, and embed those qualities into machine learning,” said Rusch. “It can reliably learn long-range dependencies without becoming unstable or overly complex.” Unlike previous models that require res tric tive architec ture and parameter tuning, LinOSS simplifi es implementation while retaining universal approximation capability, meaning it can replicate any causal sequence pattern. In rigorous benchmarking, it surpassed the popular Mamba model by nearly 2x in sequence classification and forecasting tasks. Its scientifi c impact hasn’t gone unnoticed. LinOSS was selected for oral presentation at ICLR 2025, a distinction reserved for the top 1 per cent of AI research papers globally. MIT’S NEW AI MODEL MIMICS THE BRAIN LinOSS is a novel AI model based on neural oscillations, outperforming existing systems in long-sequence learning Edge_July2025_22-23_News and Opinion_13647608.indd 22Edge_July2025_22-23_News and Opinion_13647608.indd 2203/07/2025 15:3203/07/2025 15:32OPINION EDGE | July-August 2025 23 OPINION EDGE | July-August 2025 23 Words by Alexander Ponomarev, CEO of Syrve MENA Some early adopters of cryptocurrency payments in the restaurant industry have been forced to stop off ering their services FINTECH ARE MENA RESTAURANTS READY FOR CRYPTOCURRENCY? The MENA region is undergoing a rapid digital transformation, especially regarding how people pay and how payments are processed. Owing to fintech innovation and widespread smartphone usage, digital and cryptocurrency payments are growing exponentially. Even restaurants, long considered traditional in their operations, are now exploring the role of crypto as the next evolution in customer convenience and payment modernisation. In Dubai, several venues have already tested crypto payments. For example, Bake N More, a café powered by Mixin Network, became one of the fi rst in the city to accept cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum. Another café made headlines for accepting Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Tether for everything from brewed coff ee to full breakfasts. These pioneering examples show interest in integrating crypto into the restaurant business model, especially in places like Dubai, where the regulatory environment is generally pro-innovation. Over the last few years, digital payments have become prominent in the MENA region. According to recent data, fi ntech revenues in MENA are projected to grow from $1.5 billion in 2022 to $4.5 billion by 2025. Cryptocurrency has also gained momentum. Between July 2023 and June 2024, MENA processed $338.7 billion in crypto transactions – a 48 per cent year-on-year growth from 2021 to 2022. At the same time, the UAE and Saudi Arabia governments are actively promoting digital economies, with initiatives like Smart Dubai aimed at making services paperless and cashless, and 70 per cent cashless transactions introduced in the Saudi Arabia 2030 plan. Restaurants in the region are increasingly adopting digital tools for placing and processing orders. QR code menus, digital ordering platforms, and contactless payments are only a few examples of innovative technologies that have become commonplace. According to recent surveys, 67 per cent of on- premises diners now prefer digital ordering, illustrating the shift in consumer expectations. Some restaurant brands are pushing the boundaries even further. Examples worldwide include Wings and Rings’ use of Bitcoin for franchise fees and Burger King’s cryptocurrency loyalty programme. These instances establish a precedent and pave the way for regional innovation. FUTURE PROSPECTS FOR CRYPTOCURRENCY While large-scale adoption of crypto in MENA’s food and beverage sector is still in its early stages, the conditions for its growth are becoming more favourable. As crypto regulation stabilises and infrastructure matures, more restaurants will likely revisit or initiate pilots in accepting digital assets. This potential for growth and innovation should inspire hope for the future of cryptocurrency in the MENA region. In the next three to fi ve years, we are likely to see clearer regulatory frameworks, expanded infrastructure for crypto transactions, and a shift in consumer preferences towards digital assets. Restaurants will be well-positioned to benefi t from this momentum if they start laying the foundation now through trial programs, collaborations with authorised fi nancial providers, and fl exible point- of-sale systems. In the near future, the widespread adoption of cryptocurrencies in the hospitality industry may not be a far-fetched idea. The MENA region is currently at an intersection of innovation and tradition. Restaurants, as key players in the food and beverage sector, have the potential to lead the development of payment methods and provide experiences that contribute to the region’s digital future. By embracing cryptocurrency and other digital innovations, restaurants can signifi cantly shape the region’s digital landscape. Some early adopters of cryptocurrency payments in the restaurant industry have been forced to stop off ering their services Edge_July2025_22-23_News and Opinion_13647608.indd 23Edge_July2025_22-23_News and Opinion_13647608.indd 2330/06/2025 20:1830/06/2025 20:18NEWS 24 EDGE | July-August 2025 760 YEARS The years of academic excellence Sorbonne University brings to the UAE Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artifi cial Intelligence (MBZUAI) and Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi (SUAD) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to launch a strategic academic partnership that will accelerate collaboration in AI research, education, and ethics. The agreement was signed at the MBZUAI campus by Professor Eric Xing, MBZUAI President and University Professor, and Professor Nathalie Martial-Braz, SUAD Chancellor and University Professor, in the presence of senior leaders from both institutions. The partnership supports MBZUAI’s vision to serve as a global epicentre for AI innovation and research, expanding through its Institute of Foundation Models labs in France and Silicon Valley, and positioning Abu Dhabi as a leader in advancing ethical, inclusive, and high-impact technologies. It also aligns with the Abu Dhabi and Paris campuses of SUAD’s Centre for Artifi cial Intelligence’s (SCAI) vision to drive interdisciplinary AI excellence as a catalyst in Abu Dhabi’s transformative innovation ecosystem. Led by Professor Gérard Biau, SCAI is a key contributor to Europe and the UAE’s AI advancement and reinforces SUAD’s commitment to global collaborative research and AI leadership. The agreement, which contributes to the UAE’s national priorities in AI and education, outlines a series of joint research initiatives focused on AI and its applications across key sectors such as healthcare, energy, climate science, transportation, and digital humanities. The universities will co-supervise Ph.D. students and postdoctoral researchers to support the development of advanced academic talent. Sorbonne Universit y Abu Dhabi was established in May 2006 under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed al Nahyan, and is licensed by the Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK). The French Emirati University draws on 760 years of academic excellence from the prestigious Sorbonne University in Paris. MBZUAI AND SUAD PARTNER TO ADVANCE AI INNOVATION This partnership aims to drive interdisciplinary AI research, education, and ethical innovation Edge_July2025_24-25_News and Opinion_13647672.indd 24Edge_July2025_24-25_News and Opinion_13647672.indd 2430/06/2025 20:2030/06/2025 20:20OPINION EDGE | July-August 2025 25 OPINION EDGE | July-August 2025 25 Here’s how battery swapping could solve EV’s biggest adoption hurdles Words by Mohammad Maktari, CEO, NIO MENA SUSTAINABILITY THE MISSING PIECE IN THE EV PUZZLE Electric vehicle adoption is no longer a future trend. It is happening now, and our region is fi rmly in the mix. The potential has now become the momentum, as we continue to see real movement through consumer demand and policy frameworks aligning faster than ever. Yet, despite these positive trends, there remain critical challenges that hinder the widespread acceptance and seamless integration of electric vehicles into our daily lives. The most pressing of these is the question of long charging times and charger accessibility. While the current industry narrative largely focuses on expanding fast-charging networks, an alternative solution is gaining momentum. A solution that has the potential to redefi ne the entire EV ownership and usage model: battery swapping. Despite advances in ultra-fast charging, conventional EV charging still faces key challenges. Charging times remain signifi cantly longer than traditional refuelling, with even fast chargers taking 30–60 minutes. The growing demand also places immense strain on power grids, particularly during peak hours. Additionally, repeated fast charging can accelerate battery degradation, reducing performance and lifespan. Access to charging points remains unreliable, with stations often crowded, faulty, or inaccessible, especially for apartment dwellers, creating a major barrier to broader EV adoption. Battery swapping addresses each of these issues with a new level of effi ciency and predictability. Battery swapping involves a designated station to allow the quick and automated removal of a depleted EV battery, replacing it with a charged one. The process, typically completed in around 3 minutes, allows drivers to remain in the vehicle while robotic systems manage the exchange. As the system is fully automated, vehicles are autonomously parked inside the station, where the depleted battery is replaced, and a complete health check is performed on the battery, motor, and electric systems. Every swapped battery is charged under optimal conditions and thoroughly maintained to guarantee the driver’s peak performance and safety. Battery swapping off ers several key advantages, including a quick three-minute battery refuelling experience and a fully autonomous, app-controlled process. Each swap includes a complete system health check, ensuring vehicle reliability, while optimised battery charging helps extend battery lifespan. Additionally, smart energy management contributes to more effi cient and sustainable power use. Beyond convenience, battery swapping holds promise for energy infrastructure at large. When integrated with smart energy management systems, swap stations can act as grid stabilisers. In areas where electricity is cheaper during the night, batteries can be charged during off -peak hours and deployed when demand is high, helping balance grid load. Advantages of battery swapping extend further than private vehicle owners. For companies with large fl eets, take ride hailing and limousines for example, this is a scalable, effi cient and sustainable solution that can enhance operations with almost zero vehicle downtime. This modular approach to mobility aligns with how people actually use vehicles, off ering both cost savings and effi ciency. Battery swapping is not just an alternative to charging – it is a paradigm shift. It represents a move away from the limitations of today’s fragmented infrastructure toward a holistic, service-based model that centres around the user. It’s a future where EV ownership is more aff ordable, more fl exible, and more sustainable. A future where concerns about charging, battery wear, or time don’t stand in the way of adoption. A future where energy is delivered as eff ortlessly as information in the digital age. Battery swapping off ers several key advantages, including a quick three- minute battery refuelling experience and a fully autonomous, app-controlled process Edge_July2025_24-25_News and Opinion_13647672.indd 25Edge_July2025_24-25_News and Opinion_13647672.indd 2530/06/2025 20:2030/06/2025 20:20MAP 26 EDGE | July-August 2025 Launches, breakthroughs, and power plays from across the region AROUND THE GULF KUWAIT Google Cloud deepens engagement with Kuwaiti government Kuwait’s Finance Ministry met with Google Cloud’s EMEA VP to advance public- sector digital transformation, expanding cloud services and modernising digital infrastructure. SAUDI ARABIA Saudi partners with NVIDIA to build national ‘AI factories’ Saudi Arabia and NVIDIA jointly announced plans to build sovereign AI infrastructure, including data centres, digital twins, and robotics, as the Kingdom aims to become a global AI hub. Edge_July2025_26-27_Big Map_13640469.indd 26Edge_July2025_26-27_Big Map_13640469.indd 2630/06/2025 20:2230/06/2025 20:22MAP EDGE | July-August 2025 27 UAE Abu Dhabi completes autonomous fl ying taxi test over Marina The Abu Dhabi Investment Offi ce (ADIO) successfully demonstrated the EHang EH216-S autonomous fl ying taxi over the Marina, signalling progress in urban air mobility and the UAE’s vision for high- tech transport solutions. OMAN Ericsson trains Omani tech educators in IoT and AI Ericsson led a training programme for Omani instructors at the Centre of Excellence for AI, IoT, and robotics, empowering them to educate the next generation in cutting-edge tech. QATAR $1 billion incentives to boost tech Invest Qatar introduced a $1 billion incentive plan to attract tech investment, covering fi ntech, AI, cybersecurity, cloud, and data sectors, with up to 40 per cent cost support over fi ve years. Edge_July2025_26-27_Big Map_13640469.indd 27Edge_July2025_26-27_Big Map_13640469.indd 2730/06/2025 20:2230/06/2025 20:22REPORT 28 EDGE | July-August 2025 How AI expectations, emotional intelligence, and the trust gap are reshaping customer experience across EMEA THE CUSTOMER PARADOX ServiceNow’s Consumer Voice Report 2025 off ers a look into the evolving relationship between customers and AI-powered service platforms. Based on insights from 17,000 adults across EMEA, the fi ndings reveal a growing appetite for emotionally intelligent AI, but also a deep paradox in consumer behaviour. Consumers increasingly favour real-time, AI-enhanced experiences, yet still default to human-led interactions when stakes are high. While 92 per cent of respondents prioritised fast and accurate resolution, only 8 per cent felt that AI chatbots surpassed expectations, with two-thirds citing disappointments in the past fi ve years. Emotional nuance is a key diff erentiator. A striking 71 per cent of respondents are hopeful that AI will soon understand their emotional states, and 63 per cent expect this to happen within the next year. Still, 59 per cent identify failure to grasp emotional cues as a giveaway that they’re speaking to a bot, highlighting a gap between expectation and current reality. The region’s consumers trust AI for low-stakes tasks like tracking packages or scheduling services, but only 5 per cent would rely on AI to handle sensitive scenarios like closing a deceased loved one’s bank account. This “AI trust gap” presents a strategic opportunity: the best brands won’t force the AI agenda but blend it seamlessly with human support. “The key takeaway for business leaders is that AI can no longer be just another customer service tool – it has to be an essential partner to the human agent. The future of customer relationships now lies at the intersection of AI and emotional intelligence (EQ). Consumers no longer want AI that just gets the job done; they want AI that understands them,” commented William O’Neill, Area VP, UAE at ServiceNow. Edge_July2025_28-29_Report Servicenow_13647796.indd 28Edge_July2025_28-29_Report Servicenow_13647796.indd 2830/06/2025 20:2330/06/2025 20:23REPORT EDGE | July-August 2025 29 THE STATS IN BRIEF Consumers in EMEA who hope AI will soon detect their emotional state Consumers who say AI chatbots have not met expectations over the past 5 years Consumers who cite “waiting on hold for more than 10 minutes” as a top frustration Consumers frustrated by repeating the same information to multiple agents Saudi Arabia consumers who say good chatbot service is important Consumers who would never trust AI to dispute a suspicious transaction Consumers aged 55+ who believe AI will never understand emotions Consumers who report encountering barriers when using AI chatbots Consumers who believe AI chatbots have surpassed expectations 71%67%55% 38% 82% 39% 44% 92% 8% Edge_July2025_28-29_Report Servicenow_13647796.indd 29Edge_July2025_28-29_Report Servicenow_13647796.indd 2930/06/2025 20:2330/06/2025 20:23Next >