AI, robots enthral tech lovers

Humanoid robots at the exhibition also gathered a crowd, including the world's first humanoid citizen Sophia and her brother Han.

The 38th edition of the Gitex Technology Week concluded on Thursday after a five-day long display of cutting-edge technology, entertaining the exhibition's visitors.
This year's show, which ran from October 14 to 18, saw the participation of over 4,000 companies from more than 100 countries.
Telecom firm Etisalat's launch of 5G network and flying autonomous car stole the spotlight during the first day of the show. The Roads and Transport Authority's (RTA) autonomous taxi was also a popular attraction.
Humanoid robots at the exhibition also gathered a crowd, including the world's first humanoid citizen Sophia and her brother Han. Other robots that enthralled audience include ones that could play basketball, sing and play piano, serve coffee, take selfies and dance.
Innovations by various government departments also made headlines. Smart Dubai and the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority launched the UAE Pass, which allows all UAE residents to have a digital national identity that can be used on every government website.
Meanwhile, the Dubai Police displayed an autonomous police station that can be ordered via a mobile phone app in the future, as well as three different surveillance drones.
The Smart Dubai had 59 government entities and private companies showcasing their latest smart services at their stand.
Dr Aisha bint Bishr, Smart Dubai Office director-general, said: "Since its inception, Smart Dubai has been on a mission to implement the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to transform Dubai into a full-fledged smart city and make it one of the happiest in the world. We have forged numerous partnerships as we progress towards our goals, and are delighted that these partners - government entities, private organisations, or start-ups - are joining us to showcase their smart services created for the people and the community."
Moreover, a panel of inspired women made the case for advanced IT learning across schools, proving how improved access to classroom tech would help level the playing field for female-led tech startups.
An expert commented: "We already see real-life benefits for most early adopting firms. We think that this generation of AI can generate up to $6 trillion of annual value across the global economy."
The Gitex Future Stars - a conference primarily aimed at startups - attracted participation of 700 companies from 75 nations.
sarwat@khaleejtimes.com

• Dubai