Honor unveils new corporate strategy to transition to an AI device ecosystem company

Honor unveils new corporate strategy to transition to an AI device ecosystem company
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Updated 05 March 2025
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Honor unveils new corporate strategy to transition to an AI device ecosystem company

Honor unveils new corporate strategy to transition to an AI device ecosystem company

Global technology brand Honor recently announced the HONOR ALPHA PLAN, a new corporate strategy to transform Honor from a smartphone maker to a global leading AI device ecosystem company. The visionary three-step plan details the bold steps Honor will take to usher in the new intelligent world, and calls on the industry to co-create an open, value-sharing ecosystem that maximizes human potential, ultimately benefiting all mankind.

“It is clear that the AI revolution will reshape the paradigm of the device industry — completely transforming our productivity, our society, and even our culture more than ever before,” said James Li, CEO of Honor. “I am calling on all of us to unite together to address the challenges —  as well as the many opportunities – of AI technology. I also call on the industry to be truly open so that we can fully embrace this exciting AI future. Let’s do it together.”

The designation HONOR ALPHA PLAN is chosen for its unique symbolic meaning. Alpha, as the first letter in the Greek alphabet, symbolizes Honor’s relentless pursuit of technological excellence. Additionally, the Chinese word for humans (人) can be found where the stroke connects in the lowercase letter “α,” echoing Honor’s commitment to human-centric innovation. The East-meets-West symbolism perfectly encapsulates Honor’s global vision and ambition to create value for consumers worldwide.

The HONOR ALPHA PLAN comprises three steps: the first step begins with the development of an intelligent phone. Honor will work with partners to open technology boundaries to co-create a new paradigm for AI devices in the agentic AI era. Next, Honor will open industry boundaries and co-create a new paradigm for AI ecosystem in the physical AI era. Finally, in the AGI era, Honor will open human potential boundaries and co-create a new paradigm for civilization.

The envisioned intelligent phone that is central to the first step will embed human-centric AI that is purpose-built to maximize human potential, including the leading AI technology Honor showcased during the keynote address.

Leading AI technology for the agentic AI era

The world’s first GUI-based personal mobile AI agent developed by Honor redefines daily convenience with intelligent technology.

In a technology showcase in collaboration with Google Cloud and Qualcomm Technologies, Honor demonstrated how an AI agent can help make a table reservation through a third-party service while taking into consideration appointments saved in the Honor calendar and traffic information. Honor plans to bring agentic experiences to its devices in international markets in the near future.

Honor is transforming mobile photography with AiMAGE, the new brand for Honor’s imaging technology. AiMAGE is powered by the AI Kernel, the industry’s first solution to support device-cloud AI models. Locally, the on-device model supports a 1.3 billion parameter model to generate a 50% uplift in image clarity. The cloud counterpart benefits from a larger scale of computing resources, running a 12.4 billion parameter model to massively enhance the quality of telephoto images.

Equally important in AiMAGE is the AI ecosystem component. Through collaborating with partners, including Google Cloud, Honor will continue improving the versatility of its imaging offerings by integrating more intuitive AI features into its smartphones. The brand-new AI Upscale feature for restoring old portraits will be rolled out gradually to the Honor Magic7 series powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite Mobile Platform, starting this March.

Honor introduced the world’s first all-ecosystem file-sharing technology. With it, users can enjoy ultra-fast speeds, whether transferring files to one or many iOS and Android devices. Additionally, the brand also announced that AI Deepfake detection will soon arrive in its latest flagship bar phones and foldable phones in international markets.

Co-creating an open, value-sharing ecosystem with global partners

“As we move into the physical AI era, we need to open our industry boundaries and co-create a new paradigm for the AI ecosystem,” Li said. To reach the second step of its strategic plan, Honor calls on the industry to open up its AI capabilities for a wider range of devices, enabling seamless collaboration as Honor co-creates a value-sharing ecosystem with global partners. As testament to its commitment, Honor announced recently that it will invest more than $10 billion over the next five years to fund this endeavor.

“In the end, we will open human potential boundaries, and co-create a new paradigm for civilization in the AGI era. You will witness the co-existence between carbon-based life and silicon-based intelligence. This is why all of us need to work together to maximize human potential to embrace an intelligent world,” said Li, extending an invitation for all to join Honor to realize the third and final step of its plan.

Representatives from Google Cloud, Qualcomm Technologies, Inc., CKH Group, Orange, Telefónica and Vodafone joined Li on stage to officiate a tree-lighting ceremony. By illuminating a tree of light representing the AI ecosystem and AI devices, the ceremony symbolized the collaboration of industry partners to co-develop the AI device ecosystem that will serve every consumer worldwide.

“Today, Honor has presented a bold new vision for a future where AI will underpin every facet of the device user experience. We are excited to partner with Honor to integrate our technology and power the next generation of AI devices,” said Alex Katouzian, group GM, Mobile, Compute, & XR, Wearables, Qualcomm Technologies, Inc.

“Collaboration is the fabric that weaves together the open ecosystem for AI. We’re thrilled to join hands with Honor and other industry partners to ride this disruptive wave. We are working closely to deeply integrate Google’s Gemini AI models into Honor solutions, and create new possibilities for users around the world that were never before possible, while protecting their data security and user privacy,” said Matt Waldbusser, managing director, Global Solutions and Consumer AI, Google Cloud.

To demonstrate the HONOR ALPHA PLAN’s emphasis on a consumer-centric approach, Honor pledged to provide seven years of Android OS and security updates for its Honor Magic series, starting in the EU market.

In addition, Honor committed to accelerating its sustainability initiatives to reach operational carbon neutrality by 2040, five years ahead of its initial goal. Honor also announced its plan to achieve carbon neutrality across its entire supply chain and products by 2050.

New product showcase

At MWC Barcelona 2025, Honor introduced multiple new products to bring more choices to consumers in international markets. With a beautiful vine-leaf curved design and lightweight body, the AI PC HONOR MagicBook Pro 14 integrates Honor Turbo X to deliver powerful performance and record-setting battery life.

Honor Pad V9 provides an enduring, AI-powered learning and office experience with its ultra-thin body, industry-leading 2.8K Honor eye comfort display, and one of the best performing batteries in the industry.

Combining premium design and smart technology, Honor Watch 5 Ultra offers up to 15 days of battery life for active users to keep track of their fitness journey.

Honor also introduced the Honor earbuds open, ergonomic earbuds that deliver powerful sounds while supporting AI-powered translation, real-time interpretation and more.

MWC booth details

Between March 3-6, visitors of MWC Barcelona 2025 may visit the Honor booth located at Stand 3H10 in Hall 3, Fira Gran Via, to check out the latest innovations from Honor and its partners.


IBM and Scuderia Ferrari HP debut reimagined app

IBM and Scuderia Ferrari HP debut reimagined app
Updated 05 May 2025
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IBM and Scuderia Ferrari HP debut reimagined app

IBM and Scuderia Ferrari HP debut reimagined app

IBM and Scuderia Ferrari HP have introduced a newly reimagined mobile app experience designed to bring the passionate global fanbase of nearly 400 million Tifosi closer than ever to cars, drivers and races they love.

Now available in English and — for the first time — Italian, the app includes an all-new Race Center and Racing Insights built with IBM watsonx, delivering a more immersive experience. These AI-powered features bring fans even closer to all the Scuderia Ferrari HP action from race weekend and include:

• AI-generated race summaries: Post-race recaps of the Scuderia Ferrari HP team’s performance that are available within hours of a race’s conclusion. Using LLMs on watsonx, the team’s complex race data is transformed into compelling narratives that include reflections from the Scuderia Ferrari HP drivers and team principal.

• Post-race insights and data visualizations: dynamic visuals, created from technologies on watsonx, which allow fans to interact with and see post-race driver and car data including telemetry, weather, track conditions, session results, and car and tire strategies.

• Historical driver and team insights: analysis that provides fans with comparisons of key 2025 race moments to past Scuderia Ferrari HP race milestones including car, driver and track moments. These insights are generated by LLMs on watsonx, including IBM Granite, and are embedded within the AI-generated race summaries and other Scuderia Ferrari HP content.

Alongside Race Center, IBM and Scuderia Ferrari have launched new app features designed to deliver personalized and interactive fan experiences year-round. These include:

• Fan messages: allows fans to send messages directly to the Scuderia Ferrari HP team for the chance to be featured in key team communications including social media posts, team blogs, and more.

• Interactive fan polls: daily polls that offer fan voting on a range of Scuderia Ferrari HP topics including qualifying, race performances, and historical and favorite team moments.

• Iconic races: race summaries highlighting some of Ferrari’s most famous wins throughout the decades.

IBM and Scuderia Ferrari will continue rolling out new app features throughout 2025 to make the racing season even more exciting. By combining data and AI technologies with the team’s vast amounts of current and historical data, IBM and Scuderia Ferrari are working to reimagine the digital fan experience in ways that deepen the connection between Tifosi, F1 fans, and the world’s most renowned F1 racing team.

“IBM and Ferrari are bound by a shared commitment to progress, innovation and excellence,” said Jonathan Adashek, senior vice president of marketing and communications at IBM. “With AI, we’re creating a new blueprint for digital fan engagement that brings fans even closer to Scuderia Ferrari whether it’s race weekend or not. The app is built with the same data and analytics technologies used by IBM clients across industries to achieve enhanced customer experiences, help their employees reach new levels of productivity and make more informed, data-driven business decisions.”

“This app is about bringing all our fans closer to the heart of the racing world of Ferrari,” said Lorenzo Giorgetti, chief racing revenue officer. “With IBM’s cutting-edge AI technology and our shared commitment to innovation and excellence, we are creating a digital experience worthy of the Ferrari name.”


Visit Qatar, flynas sign MoU to strengthen bilateral tourism cooperation

Visit Qatar, flynas sign MoU to strengthen bilateral tourism cooperation
Updated 05 May 2025
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Visit Qatar, flynas sign MoU to strengthen bilateral tourism cooperation

Visit Qatar, flynas sign MoU to strengthen bilateral tourism cooperation

Visit Qatar signed a memorandum of understanding with flynas to boost travel between the Kingdom and Qatar, during its participation at Arabian Travel Market 2025 in Dubai.

The signing ceremony was attended by Abdulaziz Ali Al-Mawlawi, CEO of Visit Qatar, alongside senior officials from Visit Qatar. Representing flynas were Stefan Magiera, chief commercial officer, and Abdulelah Aleidi, vice president of sales.

Under the agreement, the two parties will work together to explore the launch of additional flights between Saudi Arabia and Qatar during major events and tournaments, including the FIFA Arab Cup Qatar 2025. The partnership will also see the implementation of joint marketing campaigns positioning Qatar as a premier destination for Saudi travelers.

This agreement builds on the strong collaborative foundation between Visit Qatar and flynas, particularly in enhancing air connectivity and implementing joint promotional campaigns during peak traveling seasons. Through this partnership, both parties will continue to provide seamless traveling experiences and boost tourist traffic between the two countries.


‘Mango Mania’ sweeps LuLu, with 119 varieties on offer

‘Mango Mania’ sweeps LuLu, with 119 varieties on offer
Updated 05 May 2025
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‘Mango Mania’ sweeps LuLu, with 119 varieties on offer

‘Mango Mania’ sweeps LuLu, with 119 varieties on offer

LuLu Hypermarkets across the Kingdom are hosting Mango Mania Festival — the biggest festival of its kind in Saudi Arabia celebrating the popular summer fruit.

The festival, officially launched by Consul General of India in Jeddah Fahad Ahmed Khan Suri, will run until May 10, offering a flavorful journey across borders with over 119 global varieties of mangoes sourced from more than 12 countries.

Leading the event are Saudi Arabia and India, contributing an impressive 24 and 60 mango varieties, respectively. Other participating countries adding their tropical treasures to the mix include Vietnam, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Yemen, Uganda, Kenya, Colombia, and Peru.

“This is more than just a fruit festival — it’s a cultural showcase,” said Suri. “India’s deep-rooted connection with the mango is well-known, and it’s wonderful to see LuLu bringing that legacy to Saudi Arabia, along with a global flavor palette. Mango Mania offers a delicious experience that bridges taste and tradition,” he added.

The festival highlights mangoes in every imaginable form — from fresh harvests to curated culinary experiences. Shoppers can expect an exciting lineup in the Hot Food and Cold Food counters, featuring innovative dishes such as mango chicken curry, mango fish curry, honey mango stuffed chicken breasts, and classic favorites like aamras (mango puree) with puri (deep-fried bread), mango pickles, and vegan mango smoothies with flaxseed. The dessert section is a tropical dream, showcasing mango pudding, mango cheesecake, mango mousse, mango pastries, offering something sweet for every palate.

Shehim Mohammed, director of LuLu Hypermarkets Saudi Arabia, said: “We’re thrilled to bring back Mango Mania, one of our most loved seasonal fests. It’s not just about showcasing variety — it’s about celebrating the health, flavor, and joy this fruit brings. We’re also proud to shine a spotlight on Saudi-grown mangoes, reinforcing our commitment to supporting local agriculture.”


Dar Wa Emaar launches $200m residential project in Dammam

Dar Wa Emaar launches $200m residential project in Dammam
Updated 05 May 2025
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Dar Wa Emaar launches $200m residential project in Dammam

Dar Wa Emaar launches $200m residential project in Dammam

Dar Wa Emaar Real Estate Investment and Development Company has announced the launch of its latest residential development, “Saraya Al-Sharq,” in partnership with the National Housing Company. The project involves an investment valued at SR750 million ($200 million) in Al-Wajeha destination, Dammam, as part of the company’s ongoing commitment to meeting the evolving needs of Saudi families and supporting the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 goal of increasing homeownership to 70 percent.

Spanning over 410,000 square meters, Saraya Al-Sharq offers 616 residential units, making it the newest addition to the acclaimed “Saraya” series by Dar Wa Emaar. The project has been designed in line with the highest construction and urban planning standards, providing four distinct unit models tailored to suit Saudi households’ diverse lifestyles and aspirations.

Strategically located near Riyadh Main Road and close to key landmarks such as King Fahd International Airport, hospitals, schools, and universities, the development offers residents integrated amenities, including retail and medical centers, mosques, dedicated walking paths, and lush green spaces, with 28 percent of the total area reserved for parks and landscaping, providing a holistic and elevated living experience designed for modern family life.

Saraya Al-Sharq stands out for its diverse range of spacious residential units, ranging from 200 to 360 square meters. The development offers four thoughtfully designed unit models, including three models with four-bedroom and one five-bedroom options, catering to various family needs. The project also features energy-efficient lighting, expansive glass façades that maximize natural light, and a selection of premium materials that reflect attention to detail and construction excellence.

Amr Fakhry Elfeky, executive director of development and investment at Dar Wa Emaar, said: “The Saraya Al-Sharq project is a natural progression of our successful ventures in the Eastern Province, executed in partnership with NHC, including landmark developments such as Saraya Al-Bahar and Saraya Al-Ghoroub. This underscores the profound trust placed in Dar Wa Emaar by both our clients and NHC. The project further solidifies our enduring commitment to meeting the dynamic needs of the real estate market over nearly two decades through the delivery of innovative, high-quality projects that exceed customer expectations in terms of design, construction standards, and integrated amenities.”

Saraya Al-Sharq creates a fully integrated community to foster growth and prosperity. In collaboration with several financial institutions, it offers innovative financing solutions to facilitate homeownership for citizens. The project targets a wide range of potential homeowners, with prices starting at SR797,000, making the homeownership process more flexible and seamless.

Since 2007, Dar Wa Emaar has maintained its leadership in the real estate market by developing thousands of residential units across various regions of the Kingdom. Through its diverse projects, the company contributes to enhancing the quality of life by addressing the varied needs of citizens and residents. The company plays a crucial role in bridging the housing gap and driving sustainable growth within the Kingdom’s real estate sector.


SOUEAST showcases effortless mobility in test drive event

SOUEAST showcases effortless mobility in test drive event
Updated 04 May 2025
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SOUEAST showcases effortless mobility in test drive event

SOUEAST showcases effortless mobility in test drive event

During the inaugural Global EASE DAY 2025, Chinese automaker SOUEAST successfully held its first global media test drive event “EASE Experience” in Shanghai. Designed to showcase the brand’s multi-scenario urban mobility solutions, the event highlighted the stylish, comfort, and warm-tech of SOUEAST models.

Global media and influencers praised the lineup for its seamless integration of innovation, performance, and urban adaptability.

The “EASE Experience” test drive immersed participants in meticulously crafted urban and outdoor simulations.

SOUEAST’s latest models — S09, S07, S06 and the hybrid S06 DM — demonstrated their versatility through dynamic driving challenges.

From high-speed acceleration to different terrain, each model underscored SOUEAST’s commitment to redefining EASE, intelligent urban mobility.

S09: The pinnacle of performance

Positioned as a D-segment smart premium SUV, the S09 embodies SOUEAST’s pinnacle of design, technology, and performance.

The model is 4,858 mm in length, 1,925 mm in width, and 1,780 mm in height, with a 2,850-mm wheelbase, offering a spacious 7-seat layout, ideal for both city commutes and family trips.

With its sleek profile, U-shaped grille, and LED lighting system, the S09 exudes sophistication.

Inside, ergonomic eco-friendly seats with heating/ ventilation functions pair with a 10.25-inch LCD dashboard and 15.6-inch console screen, blending luxury with smart technology.

During the cross-axle test, the S09 demonstrated impressive off-road capability.

Equipped with an intelligent 4WD system, it continuously monitors tire grip and vehicle posture in real time.

When the right front wheel was suspended, the system responded instantly, allowing the vehicle to remain steady without any body sway.

On the roller section, the 2.0T high-power engine paired with an 8AT allowed the S09 to maintain smooth and linear power delivery even over uneven surfaces.

The vehicle’s response remained steady and resilient.

“Drivers can confidently control the throttle rhythm, there’s no shaking in the cabin — the entire process feels remarkably fluid and comfortable,” said an experienced automotive media outlet.

S07: Urban intelligence meets futuristic style

Targeting urban youth, the C-segment S07 merges futuristic aesthetics with smart functionality. Its “starry sky” grille, LED daytime running lights, and spacious cabin position it as a trendsetter in urban mobility.

Dual 12.3-inch connected screens, a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8155 chip, and multi-language voice control ensure intuitive interaction.

The driver-centric cockpit features six-way electric seats with memory settings.

In the slalom test, the S07 exhibited precise handling during rapid, continuous steering inputs, supported by well-matched tires with strong grip.

“We could effortlessly control the steering inputs. Even during quick left-right transitions. The cabin remained well-balanced, while the tires delivered detailed feedback on road interaction,” the tester said.

S06 and S06 DM: Dynamic edge for urban stylish creators

The S06 series caters to urban youth seeking sporty aesthetics and practicality.

The hybrid S06 DM adds electrified performance, combining efficiency with thrilling power.

Aggressive front fascia, R20 alloy wheels, and a panoramic sunroof emphasize its athletic character.

The S06 DM’s 0–100 km/h acceleration and deceleration seamlessly blend power and smoothness.

At launch, the vehicle is driven primarily by the electric motor, delivering a smooth, quiet output — with virtually no mechanical noise in the cabin.