Gitex Global: The World’s Largest Technology Exhibition
Gitex Global, touted as the world’s largest technology exhibition, took place last week at Dubai’s World Trade Center from Monday to Friday. After Collins Dictionary named “AI” as the word of the year last year, the talk about artificial intelligence is still going strong. This time AI and robotics were the main topics at the Gitex Global exhibition.
Insights from Industry Leaders
Gitex Global was hosted by Dubai World Trade Center and Chief Executive Officer of KAOUN International, Trixie Lohmirmand. According to him, “Many companies and industries are now trying to implement AI, especially in underserved industries like healthcare.” This was the 44th edition of Gitex Global, which started in 1981 as the Gulf Computer Exhibition, now spread over 40 halls. This year’s exhibition featured more than 6,500 exhibitors, 1,800 startups, and 1,200 investors, and participants from 180 countries. The exhibition is not limited to the United Arab Emirates, but also has similar events in Germany, Singapore, and Morocco.
Innovations Unveiled
Some companies launched new products at this year’s exhibition. Dubai-based deep tech company Xpanceo has introduced new prototypes of its smart contact lenses. One of these lenses can display AR (augmented reality) content at just 1 to 3 microwatts of power, which consumes 300 times less power than conventional AR glasses. Another prototype, designed to receive and communicate data from biometric sensors, can transmit information from sensors installed on other parts of the body.
Noteworthy Products on Display
There were also some other notable products on display, such as a new Emirati humanoid robot teacher named ‘Maha’, and Mand. An affordable robotic prosthetic arm developed in South Korea, called Row, starts at just $1,000. This robotic arm is thousands of dollars cheaper than current market options and offers a high level of customization.
Future Expansion: Gitex in Nigeria
Gitex will make its debut in Nigeria next year. Lohmirmand called Nigeria a “future AI superpower.” He added, “We are very encouraged to see that many emerging nations and cities are trying to get ahead in the field of digital transformation. They show the desire and need to accelerate this transformation as quickly as possible.”