Events
New watchOS and AR was the Focus at Apple’s WWDC
Apple made a series of announcements at its WorldWide Developer Conference, including a new iOS with a big focus on augmented reality (AR) as well as the watchOS 4 and a new iPad range. “With iOS 11, we’re delivering the biggest AR platform in the world,” proclaimed Craig Federighi, Apple’s SVP of Software Engineering.
Similar to Facebook’s ‘Camera Effects Platform‘, Apple introduced ARKit for developers to help them bring high-quality AR experiences to iPhone and iPad using the built-in camera, powerful processors and motion sensors in iOS devices.
ARKit allows developers to build detailed virtual content on top of real-world scenes for interactive gaming and immersive shopping experiences, among other use cases. “Apple may be late to augmented reality, but it stands to deploy ARKit just as the technology hits an inflection point. Apple will play a big part in taking AR to the masses and defining the user experience,” said Geoff Blaber, VP research Americas at CCS Insight.
According to Jan Dawson, chief analyst at Jackdaw Research, Apple is embracing AR: “as an immediate first-party opportunity while keeping VR at arm’s length when it comes to mobile platforms, in contrast to Samsung and other smartphone vendors. Because Apple isn’t seeing AR as just for filters or lenses on selfies, the opportunity on iOS is arguably much broader than on other platforms like Facebook, especially in the near term.”
Apple also introduced a feature called CoreML which gives developers on-device machine learning capabilities so they can make apps which will predict, learn and become more intelligent. Meanwhile Siri will now have new male and female voices which are “more natural and expressive, adjusting intonation, pitch, emphasis and tempo while speaking” and can translate English words and phrases into Chinese, French, German, Italian or Spanish.
Users can also send money and get paid right in Messages, or tell Siri to pay someone using Apple Pay. The functionality will also be available on watchOS 4. A developer preview of iOS 11 is available to iOS Developer Program members and a public beta program will be available to iOS users later this month.
WatchOS 4
A standout feature of the watchOS 4 was a “proactive” Siri watch face which personalises information based on a user’s need throughout the day. For instance, in the morning it may show commute times and details of a wearer’s first meeting of the day.
“With each raise of the wrist, the information on the display dynamically updates based on the time of day, daily routines and data from apps such as activity, alarms, breathe, calendar, maps, reminders and wallet,” the company explained. An updated workout app now includes auto-sets for pool swim workouts, and new motion and heart rate algorithms for high intensity interval training workouts.
Interestingly, Apple plans to enable data exchange with gym equipment, so when a user taps their watch on the NFC reader of, say, a treadmill, the watch will be able to send data such as heart rate to the machine and receive information from the machine such as incline and speed to improve data accuracy.
Apple is partnering with gym equipment manufacturers with the new machines set to launch later in the year. CEO Tim Cook described the new OS as “more intuitive and intelligent than ever before”.
iPad
Meanwhile the iPad Pro tablet now comes in a new size – 10.5-inch – along with a 12.9-inch version. The iOS 11 was described as “the biggest release for the iPad ever”. Features will include a new files app, customisable dock, improved multitasking and deeper integration of Apple Pencil.
“These are by far the most powerful iPads we’ve ever created with the world’s most advanced displays featuring ProMotion, the powerful new A10X Fusion chip and the advanced camera system of iPhone 7,” said Greg Joswiak, Apple’s VP of Product Marketing.
The devices come in silver, space gray, gold and rose gold, with prices starting at $649. Both models will be available next week in Apple Stores in 38 countries including the US, Australia, Canada and China, with more regions to follow. The App Store was also revamped, designed to make discovering apps and games easier.
According to Dawson, Apple had its most hardware-centric WWDC keynote in many years, with a focus on professional users, not least because of the HomePod, a smart speaker for the home.

Events
Taiwan Launches Global Challenge: “Go Healthy with Taiwan 2025” Seeks Innovative Health Solutions

Reporting fr0m Taipei, Taiwan: Taiwan is issuing a worldwide call for groundbreaking ideas to revolutionise global health. The “Go Healthy with Taiwan 2025 Campaign,” spearheaded by the Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA) and operating under the Taiwan Excellence initiative, invites innovators from every corner of the globe to collaborate with Taiwanese enterprises and tackle urgent health challenges. This ambitious campaign, accessible at gohealthy.taiwanexcellence.org, underscores Taiwan’s dedication to forging international partnerships that will enhance physical and mental well-being across diverse communities, cities, businesses, and organizations.
The initiative highlights Taiwan’s standing as a hub for high-quality, innovative products, urging participants from healthcare, technology, education, and other sectors to propose solutions that leverage Taiwan’s expertise. Projects selected will receive support to establish cooperative ventures with Taiwanese companies, creating value through bilateral partnerships. This strategic alignment aims to position Taiwan as a leading force in the international health innovation ecosystem, contributing to global trends prioritising health and well-being.

The event was officially launched by Susan Hu, Deputy Director General of TITA; Joe Chou, Executive Vice President of TAITRA, and baseball star An-ko Lin.
During the campaign’s official launch on Tuesday, June 3, TITA Deputy Director General Ms. Susan Hu noted that President Lai Ching-te is actively advancing the vision of a “Healthy Taiwan.” The launch of this campaign marks a crucial step in realizing this vision by inviting global innovators to participate and collaborate in shaping a healthier and more sustainable future.
Mr. Joe Chou, Executive Vice President of TAITRA, emphasized that this international call not only highlights the strength and innovation of Taiwan’s comprehensive health industry but also encourages collaboration with global partners to develop smart and sustainable healthy lifestyles through Taiwan’s cutting-edge technologies and solutions.
The event also unveiled the campaign’s promotional theme, “Pitching Taiwan’s Best: A Home Run for Proposals!” The venue was transformed into a dynamic baseball field setting to symbolize Taiwan’s energetic and proactive international engagement. Taiwanese baseball star Mr. An-Ko Lin, known for his performance in the WBSC Premier12 tournament, made a surprise appearance alongside “Fu Bear,” the mascot of Taiwan Excellence. Their symbolic home runs at the event represented Taiwan’s determination to deliver its top-tier health solutions to the global stage while connecting with international innovators.
The press conference was graced by the presence of esteemed guests, including Mr. Robert Wu, Chairman of the Taiwan Bicycle Association; Mr. Jeff Chen, President of the Taiwan Sporting Goods Manufacturers Association; and Mr. Spark Huang, Director of the Taiwan Medical and Biotech Industry Association, as well as representatives from key industry sectors. In addition, media representatives from 12 international outlets spanning Europe, the United States, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East, along with members of the foreign diplomatic corps in Taiwan, attended the event to show their support.
Campaign Details: Eligibility and Submission Process
The campaign welcomes proposals from a wide array of entities, including companies, government units, legal organisations, and non-legal groups such as research institutions, non-governmental organisations, public associations, academic societies, and universities. Prospective participants must submit supporting documents to verify their affiliation (e.g., website URLs, registration certificates) and their personal identity (e.g., employee ID, business card). A parental or guardian consent letter is required for proposers who are minors in their country before advancing to the semifinal stage.
All proposals must be submitted in English via the campaign’s official website by August 31, 2025. Each submission should focus on one of three core areas: applying products or solutions from Taiwanese enterprises, engaging in bilateral technical cooperation, or developing innovative business models that incorporate Taiwanese expertise. Proposals must demonstrate relevance to the proposer’s organisation and aim to promote health and well-being within local communities, cities, businesses, or organisations. Submissions will be evaluated based on their innovation, feasibility, health benefits, and the strength of their connection to Taiwanese products or solutions.

Representatives from industry, government, and academia in the health sector attended the event, joining forces to shape a “Healthy Taiwan” and foster global well-being.
Significant Awards and Incentives for Top Proposals
To incentivise participation, the campaign offers substantial awards. Up to three winning proposals will each receive a prize of USD 30,000. While the organiser reserves the right to select fewer or no winners if proposals do not meet the required standards, the opportunity remains significant.
Beyond the cash prize, finalists will earn an exclusive trip to Taiwan for up to two representatives. This includes attendance at the final competition, a press conference, and the “Go Healthy with Taiwan Tour.” This unique tour offers an immersive experience in Eastern Taiwan, featuring Yilan’s hot springs, Hualien’s gorges and coastlines, and Taitung’s pristine environments and vibrant indigenous communities. The campaign will cover round-trip economy class airfare, accommodations, travel expenses, and miscellaneous meals for the tour.

Susan Hu, Deputy Director General of TITA, stated that the “Go Healthy with Taiwan” campaign will bring together global innovation to co-create a healthier future.
Taiwan Excellence: A Legacy of Innovation
The “Go Healthy with Taiwan Campaign” is an extension of the Taiwan Excellence initiative, which was established by the Ministry of Economic Affairs in 1993. The Taiwan Excellence Awards recognise products demonstrating excellence in research and development, design, quality, and marketing, all manufactured in Taiwan. These award-winning products are globally promoted to enhance the creative image of Taiwanese businesses. The Taiwan Excellence symbol, characterised by six interwoven arcs, embodies Taiwan’s connection to the global economy, the solidarity of its manufacturers, and the passion driving its industries. The arcs also signify completeness, reflecting Taiwan’s cultural commitment to excellence.
TAITRA, the campaign’s organiser, is Taiwan’s leading non-profit trade promotion organisation, founded in 1970. Jointly sponsored by the government, industry associations, and commercial organisations, TAITRA supports Taiwanese businesses in strengthening their global competitiveness through a network of over 1,200 international marketing specialists across its Taipei headquarters and 50 overseas offices.

Joe Chou, Executive Vice President of TAITRA, believes that Taiwan’s high-quality products and solutions can create healthier lifestyles.
Global Reach and Future Impact
The “Go Healthy with Taiwan 2025 Campaign” has already garnered international attention, with discussions across various platforms highlighting its global call for proposals. This initiative aims to connect Taiwan’s innovative products with communities worldwide to improve lives. It encourages startups, healthcare providers, and businesses to submit ideas integrating Taiwanese technology.
By combining Taiwan’s expertise in high-quality manufacturing with global creativity, the “Go Healthy with Taiwan 2025 Campaign” seeks to create sustainable, impactful solutions that enhance health and well-being worldwide. Interested participants are encouraged to visit gohealthy.taiwanexcellence.org for detailed submission guidelines and to submit their proposals by the August 31, 2025, deadline.
Events
Jumbo Electronics Launches ‘GAME ON’ Gaming Event in Dubai

Jumbo Electronics has launched ‘GAME ON,’ a gaming event at its flagship store in Mall of the Emirates. The event, running until June 22, 2025, offers daily challenges and prizes for gamers of all skill levels. Jumbo Electronics, a UAE electronics retailer, has organized the event with over AED 275,000 in prizes available.
Under the tagline “Outplay. Outlast. Outwin,” the Jumbo store has been set up with dedicated gaming zones for popular titles including Fortnite, Counter-Strike 2, Call of Duty: Warzone, and EA FC 25. Participants can use provided PS5 consoles and gaming laptops. Players receive three attempts per game to achieve their best score, which is then recorded on a live leaderboard. Registration is available online at gameon.jumbo.ae.
Vikas Chadha, CEO of Jumbo Electronics, said, “For all of us at Jumbo Electronics, gaming is a core part of our vision. With activations like GAME ON, we’re building a deeper, more meaningful connect with the gamer community across the UAE. As pioneers in the region’s gaming retail space, we’re proud to provide not just the best tech, but also unforgettable experiences for gamers. We look forward to welcoming everyone, regardless of ability and age, at the Jumbo store.”
Weekly, the top four players on the leaderboard for each game will receive rewards such as gaming headsets and accessories. The overall top 16 players across all games will win grand prizes, including gaming laptops, monitors, peripherals, and complete gaming kits. Additionally, customers who purchase a gaming laptop at Jumbo before June 22 will receive exclusive gaming kits, valued at AED 299 or AED 700, depending on the model.
Apps
Twitch Announces Major Global and MENA Product Upgrades at TwitchCon Europe 2025

Twitch has announced a suite of significant product and service updates aimed at transforming how creators stream, monetize, and share content. The announcements were made by CEO Dan Clancy during the Opening Ceremony of TwitchCon Rotterdam 2025, the annual IRL festival celebrating Twitch’s expansive global community.
These new initiatives build on the roadmap outlined in Twitch’s 2025 open letter to its community, which prioritized streamer growth. With Twitch currently commanding over 60% of the gaming livestreaming market and viewers collectively watching an astounding average of 46 million hours of content daily, the platform continues to solidify its position at the forefront of live gaming and interactive entertainment.
This momentum is particularly evident in the MENA region, where viewership has seen a significant surge. In 2024 alone, viewers across the Middle East and North Africa spent over 209 million hours watching content on Twitch, underscoring the region’s rapidly growing appetite for livestreamed entertainment.
Today’s announcements underscore Twitch’s unwavering commitment to its creators. Key updates include the introduction of dual-format and 2K streaming in Open Beta, providing streamers with more versatile broadcasting options. To enhance monetization, custom sub gift promotions are being rolled out, offering new ways for communities to support their favorite creators.
A brand-new feature called Combos was also unveiled, alongside significant mobile app upgrades, some of which are specifically tailored to meet the needs and preferences of the MENA region’s burgeoning streaming community. “TwitchCon is our largest annual IRL gathering, bringing together our global community of streamers, viewers, and brands in a powerful way,” said Dan Clancy, CEO of Twitch, addressing the audience in Rotterdam. “This weekend is a celebration of creativity, connection, and fun. We’re introducing new tools and features to help streamers grow, including ones tailored to the MENA region.”
Clancy further emphasized the platform’s strategic focus on regional expansion, “We’ve seen strong momentum around gaming and esports, plus a rising demand for new and existing audiences. We’re excited to keep building in MENA, because when streamers thrive, so do the communities around them.”
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