News
Samsung Opens Largest Shop-in-Shop in the MENA Region

Samsung Gulf Electronics has announced the opening of its largest shop-in-shop in the MENA region, which is located in Sharaf DG Times Square Centre, Dubai. The new outlet will serve as a dedicated destination that showcases Samsung’s latest innovations in the home appliances category and provides consumers with the best-in-class shopping experience as they explore and purchase products.
Samsung is committed to creating experiences that transform everyday life and the brands’ wide range of market-leading appliances at the new shop-in-shop. These products are part of the connected living experience, they are powered by artificial intelligence (AI) and connected via the internet of things (IoT) that can be controlled from anywhere, at any time, through SmartThings app available in all smartphones.
“The unveiling of our biggest regional shop-in-shop is a proud moment for Samsung. We are delighted that this project has finally come to fruition after an extensive design and planning process,” said Burcin Arabul, Head of Home Appliances at Samsung Gulf Electronics. “Customer convenience has always been a top priority for Samsung. We want those who love our products to be able to have constant access at a location easily accessible to them. The profile and popularity of our home appliances continue to grow, and we are pleased our products that connect the world with the latest transformative, emerging technologies will now be on display and available in one of the most recognized and visited shopping locations nationwide.”

Today, connected living is in high demand amongst consumers and this trend has been the driving force behind the introduction of Samsung Home IoT, the next-generation solution that saves time and money and offers less effort, greater convenience, and more immersive connectability for devices. As the most evolved smart home service with hardware, software, and dedicated platform, seamless connected living experiences are provided through an extensive product line, open IoT ecosystem, and AI platform for smart home.
Samsung’s expansive SmartThings ecosystem implements IoT within all key areas of living, with the wide product lineup including TVs, refrigerators, washing machines, robot vacuums, air conditioners, ovens, lighting, the air purifier, air dresser, and automatic electronics. What’s more, Samsung’s intelligent AI assistant Bixby controls all connected devices. Bixby understands consumer preferences when using products and is aware of usage patterns and lifestyle tendencies, helping to save energy and time while promoting ease of use and convenience.
“The winning combination of useful information and extensive data has been paired together with visual AI and voice control to bring Bixby and outsmart controls for smart devices vision to life,” said Arabul. “A connected ecosystem enables far more possibilities for consumers, reimagining experiences, delivering new value, and making life easier. Our platform also syncs with various third party IoT devices and services for greater customer satisfaction. As such, we are delighted consumers will be able to learn more and become accustomed with our latest innovations at the Sharaf DG store.”
Samsung aims to create an immersive home appliances zone that attracts consumers’ interest, harmoniously presents each product’s unique characteristics, and quickly becomes a flagship home appliances area with a contemporary look and feel to the design. The Sharaf DG outlet forms part of Samsung’s vision to open a series of shop-in-shops across the UAE with top customer electronics stores, and plans are also in place to expand retail investments in other GCC markets in the coming years.
“In the post-pandemic landscape, consumer expectations have evolved, and people expect top brands to ensure that flagship products will be showcased in a premium, relaxed, and safe environment,” added Arabul. “Besides researching and shopping online, they also want to physically experience products and develop an understanding of potential investments.”

Apps
Samsung Internet is Now Available for Download on Windows PCs

Samsung’s default browser, Samsung Internet, has expanded its reach to desktop computers and laptops, now available for download on the Microsoft Store. One notable feature is the ability for users to sync their browsing data between their Galaxy devices and computers.
Upon launching the browser, users can import their browsing history, bookmarks, and search engines from other applications like Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge by signing into their Samsung Cloud account. The browser also supports add-ons and extensions from Chrome and Edge, accessible through the Chrome Web Store.
Samsung Internet for Windows offers familiar features such as incognito mode, light and dark modes, and ad-blocker support. The design elements show similarities to both Chrome and Edge, providing a sense of familiarity for users of those browsers. A useful security feature allows users to delete bookmarks, browsing history, passwords, and other data upon signing out, catering to those who share computers.
Despite its promising features, the browser’s PC debut is marred by a lack of complete sync support. Currently, only browsing history, bookmarks, and search engines can be imported, with no support for transferring saved passwords from Galaxy devices to computers. This omission may be addressed in future updates.
In May, Samsung Internet received an optimisation update for Galaxy tablet users. Toggleable features were introduced, allowing users to control the placement of the browser’s address, bookmark, and tab bars. The update also included a warning for users with a high number of open tabs, informing them that opening another tab would result in the deletion of the oldest tab.
Apps
Google Clarifies the Cause of Missing Google Drive Files

Many Google Drive users recently experienced the unsettling disappearance of their files, prompting concerns. Google has now identified the root cause, attributing the issue specifically to the Google Drive for Desktop app. While assuring that only a limited subset of users is affected, the tech giant is actively investigating the matter and promises timely updates.
To prevent inadvertent file deletion, Google provides the following recommendations:
- Avoid clicking “Disconnect account” within Drive for desktop.
- Refrain from deleting or moving the app data folder, located at:
- Windows: %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Local\Google\DriveFS
- macOS: ~/Library/Application Support/Google/DriveFS
- Optionally, create a copy of the app data folder if there is sufficient space on your hard drive.
Before Google officially addressed the issue, distressed users took to the company’s support forum to report deleted files. One user from South Korea highlighted a particularly severe case where their account reverted to May 2023, resulting in the loss of anything uploaded or created after that date. Additionally, the user emphasised that they had not synced or shared their files or drive with anyone else.
As Google delves deeper into resolving this matter, affected users are advised to heed the provided precautions. The company’s commitment to ongoing updates reflects its dedication to swiftly addressing and rectifying the situation. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of proactive measures to safeguard digital data, especially as users navigate cloud-based platforms such as Google Drive.
Gadgets
OnePlus 12 to Get Wireless Charging Again

The imminent launch of the OnePlus 12 is generating anticipation, with OnePlus adhering to its customary practice of revealing specifications and details prior to the official unveiling. Li JieLouis from OnePlus confirmed on Weibo that the OnePlus 12 is scheduled for release in China on December 5, shedding light on several key features of the upcoming flagship.
A predictable yet noteworthy inclusion in the specs is the use of the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3. This powerful processor aligns with the high-performance standards associated with OnePlus devices. Another intriguing detail mentioned is the introduction of a “2K Oriental Screen,” likely referring to the display showcased by OnePlus in October. During this preview, an IR blaster was highlighted, a feature reiterated by JieLouis. Additionally, a brief reference to “rain touch” suggests the incorporation of technology showcased by OnePlus that enhances touchscreen functionality when wet.
The camera setup on the OnePlus 12 is anticipated to feature a Sony Lytia LYT-808 sensor. Earlier teasers provided insights into the camera’s capabilities, showcasing the periscope zoom lens. Drawing parallels with the OnePlus Open, which also utilizes a Sony Lytia sensor, raises expectations for impressive camera performance.
However, the standout revelation is the return of wireless charging on the OnePlus 12. While OnePlus had previously offered wireless charging, it was notably absent in the OnePlus 11 and OnePlus Open without clear justification. The absence left enthusiasts speculating on the feature’s future in OnePlus devices. The specifics of the wireless charging capabilities, such as potential improvements or adherence to previous 50W charging standards, remain undisclosed. Nevertheless, the mere confirmation of its reintroduction has been met with enthusiasm.
Notably, the OnePlus 12’s debut is set for December 5 in China, with global markets expected to receive the device in January, as per reports. The return of wireless charging adds an extra layer of anticipation for OnePlus enthusiasts, and the device’s overall features indicate a promising addition to the OnePlus flagship lineup. With certification underway, there’s speculation that OnePlus might embrace Qi2, potentially making it among the pioneers in adopting this wireless charging standard. As the launch date approaches, the OnePlus 12 holds the promise of delivering an enhanced user experience with its powerful internals and innovative features.