The company included in its devices portfolio, the 12T series with a pro-grade 200MP imaging system, smart band and innovative devices.
Yesterday, Xiaomi — the leading smartphone company — hosted a special event in Riyadh celebrating the launch of a new range of innovative products. Attended by a selection of Xiaomi representatives, local media and tech influencers, the event introduced a suite of state-of-the-art smartphones to the Kingdom, showcasing their unique features and selling points.
As part of its commitment to making quality technology accessible to people and communities across the world, the event was held to provide shoppers across the Kingdom access to the Xiaomi 12T smartphone series and a diversity of luxury tech offerings.
Flagship imaging systems offer images with rich details
Both Xiaomi 12T Series flagships feature pro-grade cameras that offer users an exceptional smartphone photography experience. Featuring a pro-grade 200MP imaging system backed by ground-breaking hardware and Xiaomi’s own advanced AI algorithms, Xiaomi 12T Pro delivers superb imagery with high clarity, strong night photography, and quick focusing. These together with a variety of other optimizations allow the capturing of fine details even in low-light conditions, or when shooting fast-moving subjects without losing focus.
Meanwhile, Xiaomi 12T implements a triple camera array: a 108MP pro-grade primary camera, 8MP ultra-wide camera, and 2MP macro camera. Powerful low-light capabilities deliver crisp and bright pictures even in challenging situations.
Mega performance to power ultimate experience
Xiaomi 12T Pro is equipped with the best Snapdragon processor with leading 4nm TSMC manufacturing process, which significantly enhances the performance of CPU and GPU by 16.7% and 11% respectively compared to Snapdragon 8 Gen 1, and reduces power consumption of each by 33% and 30%.
Xiaomi 12T is powered by MediaTek’s leading chipset—MediaTek Dimensity 8100-Ultra which is built on the 5nm TSMC manufacturing process. The chip is fully upgraded with an all-new GPU structure, increasing performance and power efficiency by up to 30% compared to its predecessor.
Mega battery to extend your favorite moments
Xiaomi 12T Series offers incredible battery life, even amongst Xiaomi flagships, plus exceptionally fast charging. Both phones have a large 5,000mAh battery and feature 120W HyperCharge. Both can be charged to 100% in as quickly as 19 minutes, and ready for up to 13.5 hours of screen-on time.
Stunning display meets stunning design
A mega viewing experience is a given with Xiaomi 12T Series’ 6.67″ CrystalRes AMOLED display. With 1220p resolution and over 68 billion colors, both are perfectly designed to balance clarity, colorful details, and power efficiency. The display is also enhanced by smart features such as AdaptiveSync, which dynamically adjusts refresh rate based on content viewed. Meanwhile, for all users who interact with their phones for pro-longed periods. Finally, Adaptive Reading mode reduces the amount of blue light emitted to improve eye comfort.
Smart technologies make your home smart
Xiaomi will also launch a range of AIoT products in Saudi Arabia, including the Xiaomi TV Max 86, which provides an elevated entertainment experience powered by exceptional picture quality, the Xiaomi Smart Band 7 Pro — a super-intelligent smart bracelet designed to help users’ monitor and safeguard their health — and the Redmi Pad — an all-in-one smart tablet — will be launched in the Saudi market.
Pricing and Availability
Xiaomi 12T Pro is available for Pre-order starting today exclusive at Jarir Bookstore. Xiaomi 12T Pro comes in 12GB+256GB storage variant, with a price starting from 2699 SAR with a valuable pre-order gift bundle worth 1517 SAR.
Xiaomi 12T comes in 8GB+256GB storage variant, with a price starting from 1999 SAR with a valuable pre-order gift bundle worth 1517 SAR. Pre-order starts for both devices on October 19 to 25 and open sales on October 26.
In addition to Xiaomi 12T Series, Xiaomi will be launching the Xiaomi Smart Band 7 Pro for 339 SAR and Redmi Pad for 999 SAR as well as the Xiaomi TV Max 86 for 5999 SAR
Robot vacuum, the brand’s first-ever wet-dry vacuum series, TV, smart band, and tablet have landed to bring next-level excitement to every facet of living.
Xiaomi today announced the international release of a wide selection of AIoT products to elevate daily life – introducing Xiaomi Robot Vacuum X10+, Xiaomi Truclean W10 Wet Dry Vacuum Series, Xiaomi TV Q2 Series, Xiaomi Smart Band 7 Pro, and Redmi Pad.
Xiaomi Robot Vacuum X10, the latest in Xiaomi’s robot vacuum lineup, is designed to help make cleaning easy. Paired with its intelligent base station, the device can empty trash in its dustbin, clean mop pads, refill the water tank, keep its mopping cloth moist, and self-dry to avoid moisture retention and odors when the machine is not in use. This is true automation all the way, bringing every household a seamless cleaning experience.
This multifaceted cleaning device is also specially-adapted to clean every floor type. The mop can lift itself when the in-built ultrasonic sensor automatically detects carpets while picking up dust particles thoroughly with 4,000Pa suction power1. The dual spinning mop pads can perform pressurized mopping to remove stubborn floor stains. This all-rounded cleaning companion delivers whole-household cleaning in one go, allowing tech-savvy consumers to free themselves from time-consuming and repetitive housework after a busy working day.
Xiaomi Robot Vacuum X10+ is powered by the patented S-Cross AITM system, enabling it to avoid every object on its cleaning path with perfect-finish mopping. The machine also comes with a dual-line laser and an RGB camera for target detection. Together with the LDS navigation, the appliance will plan an efficient cleaning route, no matter the household’s size and configuration. The machine is TÜV Rheinland-certified according to their cybersecurity and privacy protection standards, ensuring your privacy.
Xiaomi Robot Vacuum X10+ is available for sale starting from 899 euros via Xiaomi’s official channels.
Truly clean in one go: Xiaomi Truclean W10 Wet Dry Vacuum Series
As the brand’s first-ever wet dry vacuum lineup, Xiaomi Truclean W10 Wet Dry Vacuum Series is designed to bring an impeccable cleaning experience to every household. The series comes with two handheld models – Xiaomi Truclean W10 Ultra Wet Dry Vacuum and Xiaomi Truclean W10 Pro Wet Dry Vacuum; both are cleaning maestros with three functions – vacuuming, mopping, and scrubbing. Powered by an intelligent dirt detection system, the in-built adaptive function enables the device to adjust the cleaning power automatically based on the amount of dust being identified. Any mess, no matter if it is a puddle of liquid waste or pet hair left by your dearest furry friend can disappear with just one click.
Understanding that every household has a different configuration, and unique preferences when it comes to cleaning, that’s why Xiaomi offers two models under this series to suit your needs. On one hand, Xiaomi Truclean W10 Ultra Wet Dry Vacuum is equipped with a 75°C2 high-temperature cleaning mode that can provide a more thorough cleaning session. It can also self-clean, refill with water, and dry itself automatically with an all-in-one smart base station.
On the other hand, Xiaomi Truclean W10 Pro Wet Dry Vacuum is the ultimate companion for households with hard-to-reach corners and edges. Cleaning is a cakewalk with the device’s specifically designed tangle-free roller brush that can cover larger spaces and has a 90-degree adjustable handle that helps clean below most furniture effectively.
Xiaomi Truclean W10 Wet Dry Vacuum Series is available for sale starting from 599 eurosvia Xiaomi’s official channels.
Unlock quantum immersion: Xiaomi TV Q2 Series
The latest Xiaomi TV Q2 Series will provide exceptional picture quality to viewers with its latest Quantum Dot Display technology, which comes in 3 different sizes. This 4K Ultra-HD resolution equipped high-end TV is meant to highlight every visual experience with vivid, life-like colors and smoother transitions during fast-motion scenes for supreme visual entertainment.
Together with Dolby VisionTM IQ and Dolby Atmos®, the powerful audiovisual duo, along with the TV’s ambient light sensors, Xiaomi TV Q2 Series can intelligently detect environmental brightness and make corresponding adjustments to the picture while delivering stunning audio performance seamlessly at the same time. Bringing every audiovisual enthusiast an immersive cinematic experience.
Not to mention the in-built Google TV system, a first for the Xiaomi TV series, which will provide viewers with tailor-selected content and endless sources of entertainment. The TV array also serves as a smart home control hub with Google Assistant3, enabling every household to control parts of their home with just their voice. The series also comes with Xiaomi TV+ app pre-installed, giving viewers more content options, ranging from live TV to blockbusters. Everything you need is here, all on one screen.
Xiaomi TV Q2 Series is available for sale starting from 599 eurosvia Xiaomi’s official channels.
Step up your style: Xiaomi Smart Band 7 Pro
Equipped with a high-resolution 1.64” rectangular AMOLED screen, Xiaomi Smart Band 7 Pro enhances every discerning user’s viewing experience in a much more convenient and pleasurable way, through its enlarged viewing area and auto-brightness function, without sacrificing its aesthetic details.
Ranging from sleep monitoring to sports tracking, Xiaomi Smart Band 7 Pro offers over 110 sports modes that can fulfill any user’s particular tracking needs. New to the popular smart band series is the built-in GNSS system, enabling faster positioning and more accurate route tracking, making it the ideal gear for all on-the-go sports enthusiasts. This device features 5ATM resistance4 and a battery life topping up to 12 days; it helps you receive any call and message, anytime, anywhere.
When it comes to the design, the wearable has over 150 in-app watch faces, 2 band colors with 8 different strap options5 in a pleasingly tactile form. This well-rounded gadget serves as a “must-have” addition to the wardrobe of any fashionista that wants to complement a sharp business look, go to a party at night or look great on a hike.
Xiaomi Smart Band 7 Pro is available for sale starting from 99 euros via Xiaomi’s official channels.
All in one, pad for fun: Redmi Pad
Key to Redmi Pad’s immersive audiovisual experience is quad speakers equipped with Dolby Atmos® and a 90Hz refresh rate. Featuring a 10.61″ display and lower visual latency, the device is designed to elevate your viewing experience, and is the first tablet in the world to receive SGS low visual fatigue certification. Additionally, Redmi Pad has been accredited with low light certification by TÜV Rheinland, so your eyes are well protected and you feel more comfortable even when binge-watching. With an 8MP 105° ultra-wide front camera and FocusFrame technology6, the device is perfectly calibrated for group video calls to make sure no one is left out.
Powered with a long-lasting 8,000mAh battery and equipped with a 22.5W in-box charger supporting 18W fast charging, Redmi Pad ensures endless fun for marathon gaming, movie watching, or even hours-long photo shooting.
Redmi Pad is available for sale starting from 279 eurosvia Xiaomi’s official channels.
Data retrieved from the internal test carried out by the manufacturer, a full test report can be provided if requested.
75°C in the water tank of the central unit when in high-temperature cleaning mode and the surroundings are at room temperature. Data is taken from Xiaomi Internal Labs. Actual results may vary.
Please refer to Google Assistant’s official website for more info.
5 ATM water resistance rating based on ISO standard 22810:2010
Availability varies by market.
FocusFrame will be available via OTA update, and only available on certain applications.
Content from Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, UAE, Egypt, and Jordan is showcased in the preview.
With this diverse and high-quality content, Netflix is focusing on authentic stories from Arab storytellers
This week, Netflix announced an exciting line-up of upcoming content from the Arab world, including shows and films from Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, UAE, Jordan, and Egypt. The projects are part of Netflix’s push into Arabic content as it invests in more Arab storytellers to tell stories that can be loved globally. So far, Netflix has had an exciting journey in the region, working with new and established voices to tell more authentic stories that carry broad appeal, and taking big creative swings with several formats, new in the Arab world.
Netflix previewed a diverse range of best-in-class Arabic content from a melodramatic unscripted show to an animated comedy series, a youth-centered film, a psychological thriller, and a historical drama through exclusive promo reels and first-look images. These include:
Dubai Bling (UAE): An 8-episode Arabic docu-soap set to launch globally on the 27th of October this year. Meet the successful, sumptuous, and splendid social circle of 10 self-made wealthy individuals living their wildest dream in Bling City. Expect gossip, drama, and a whole lot of sassy clapbacks from famous faces such as radio host Kris Fade and his wife Brianna Ramirez, Saudi TV host and actress Lojain Omran, Emirati DJ Marwan Al Awady and his wife Danya Mohammed, AKA Diva Dee, as well as influencers, socialites, and businessmen who are at the top of their fields including Zeina Khoury, Safa Siddiqui, Ebraheem Al Samadi, Farhana Bodi, and Loujain Adadah.
The Exchange (Kuwait): Bringing beloved faces from Kuwait to screens around the world, The Exchange is a high-profile series from Kuwait starring Rawan Mahdi, Mona Hussain, Hussain al-Mahdi, Mohamed Mansour, Faisal al-Amiri, Jasem alNabhan, Maryam Salih, Asmahan Tawfiq, Abdullah Bahman and more.
Credit: AAMEEN DASHTI / NETFLIX
The Exchange follows a unique story about two trailblazing women who disrupt the corrupt boys club of Kuwait’s banking industry in the late 1980s. The workplace drama is created and written by Nadia Ahmad, Anne Sobel, and Adam Sobel and directed by Karim Elshenawy & Jasem AlMuhanna and will launch in early 2023.
Photo Credit: TELFAZ11 / NETFLIX
Alkhallat+ (KSA): A satirical suspense film based on Telfaz11’s hit digital show Alkhallat, which was first released in 2017 and received more than 1.5 billion views across YouTube and social media. The film will feature four exciting comeback stories of social deception and trickery in four unlikely places, bringing the best of this beloved Saudi show to life. The film is directed by Fahad Alammari and stars Aziz Alshehri, Mohamed Aldokhie, Ibraheem Alkhairallah, Ibraheem Alhajjaj, Fahad Albutairi, Suhaib Godus, Ziyad Alamri, and Ismail Alhassan. The film is expected to launch next year. More coming soon on this!
Photo Credit: TELFAZ11 / NETFLIX
The Matchmaker (KSA): A psychological thriller film with a supernatural slant set in Al Ula, covering universal themes like disloyalty and morality. The film will launch in early 2023 and stars Hussam Alharthy, Reem AlHabib, and Nour Alkhadra and is directed by Abdulmohsen Aldhabaan.
Photo Credit: Masameer / NETFLIX
Masameer County Season 2 (KSA): The youth-centered show features 8 episodes and continues its chronicling of a changing Saudi with its quintessential wit & unique brand of humor. The highly anticipated animation will return as a sequel in 2023. More details will be shared closer to the launch date.
Netflix also announced a slew of exciting global productions, including a new season of Emily in Paris and the fantasy adventure film Slumberland, starring Jason Momoa. In addition, Netflix also talked about outstanding local talents such as Khaled Abdulla, Ahmed Malek, and Kinda Alloush starring in Netflix’s global productions like The Crown and The Swimmers.
This follows Netflix’s successful journey in the Arab world. Hana Al Omair’s Whispers, the first multi-faceted psychological Saudi thriller directed by a female filmmaker created a ripple by bucking conventional expectations of storytelling. Fan favorites Al Rawabi School for Girls and Finding Ola are now being renewed for a new season, having amplified Arab voices on the global stage and forefronting more female creative voices. From Saudi Arabia, Netflix brought some truly authentic and entertaining content including Masameer County, Masameer the Film, Six Windows in the Desert, and youth sensation, Takki. There was also Netflix’s first Arabic unscripted reality show The Fastest, and archaeological documentary, Secrets of the Saqqara Tomb which was viewed by 22 million households in its first week of launch. Apart from Netflix productions, there have also been some iconic films from different parts of the Arab world that have been given a home on Netflix through collections like Celebrating Arab Cinema, Palestinian Stories, Because She Created, and New Saudi Voices.
Through all these titles, Netflix has been investing in authentic storytelling from the Arab world and giving more people a chance to see their lives reflected on screen. Netflix will continue to expand its investment in the region, bringing authentic stories and talent from the Arab world to the forefront of the global entertainment industry.
The new Safety Check-Up feature will encourage riders to utilize the range of safety tools available in-app on trips.
Riders will be encouraged to turn on Trusted Contacts, PIN Verification as well as enable RideCheck when they open the app
Today, Uber has announced the latest steps it is taking to help improve safety on the app with the launch of the new Safety Check-Up feature.
In an industry-leading move, the Safety Check-Up feature will encourage riders to complete their safety profile by turning on and utilizing the Trusted Contacts, PIN Verification and RideCheck features that are available in-app. All these tools have been designed to improve the safety of the Uber platform:
Trusted Contacts: Riders can choose their Trusted Contacts in the app and set reminders to share their live journey with them, so family and friends can follow the trip and make sure the rider arrives at their destination safely.
PIN verification: To ensure that a rider is getting into the correct car, users can turn on PIN verification, where the driver must input the correct pin provided by the rider before the trip can start. The Check Up feature allows riders to enable the PIN verification tool and choose the hours it is active.
RideCheck: This feature uses GPS technology to detect anomalies in trips, such as a long stopover or potential collision. If the app alerts us to such events, we’ll check in on the rider and driver and offer resources to get help.
Norhen Ali, Head of MENA Communications at Uber:“The safety of everyone who uses our app is a top priority, and we’re constantly improving our features. The Safety Check-Up feature will encourage riders to make use of the full range of safety tools offered on the app to ensure they are always as safe as possible.”
The new feature adds to a number of existing features, such as GPS tracking, Personal Data Anonymisation, 24/7 Support, Driver Screening, Speed Alerts, Driver Hour Limits and a number of safety measures introduced to address COVID19.
World record set with game played at 20,230 ft (6166.1 m) in zero gravity by football legend Luis Figo and a team of football heroes from across the globe.
Mastercard’s new GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ title recognizes the world’s most popular sport as a celebration of the human spirit, igniting passion and pride for millions every day
Mastercard has set a GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ title for the ‘Highest Altitude Game of Football (Soccer) on a Parabolic Flight’ alongside football legend Luis Figo and a diverse team of football heroes from across the Middle East, Europe, and Latin America.
The first-of-its-kind football game was played at an altitude of 20,230 ft (6166.1 m) in zero gravity conditions, taking the game to a place where no match has gone before. Through this campaign, Mastercard is celebrating the world’s love for football by taking fans’ passion for the beautiful game to unprecedented heights.
The out-of-this-world game between two four-player teams was played on 20 August 2022. Football legend Luis Figo was on board with seven other players selected to earn their place on the historic flight. The record was presented by an Official Adjudicator from GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ and verified by two witnesses as Figo effortlessly dribbled the ball across a 75 square meter football field specially set inside the aircraft.
The MENA region was represented by the team captain, Hamad Mohammad Hassan and Yasmian Ghanem AlSharshani from Qatar, a market that has become a global hub for sporting excellence and a leading destination for tourists and sporting enthusiasts alike. The other players of the record-setting game were Rhiannon Ishmael, Jonny Fines, Deydson Rocha, Begad Mostafa, and Farah Jefry.
“As a long-standing partner of the UEFA Champions League since 1994, Mastercard is committed to supporting the game at every level by connecting people to their passions and providing Priceless moments to fans across the globe. We are thrilled to have set a GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ title for the highest altitude game of football on a parabolic flight alongside legend Luís Figo and our seven everyday heroes,” said Beatrice Cornacchia, Senior Vice President, Marketing and Communications, EEMEA, Mastercard.
Luis Figo, a Mastercard ambassador, has been part of several Priceless surprises around the world, captivating audiences with his experiences as a top player. Figo, the 2000 Ballon d’Or recipient, played for some of Europe’s best clubs including Sporting CP, Barcelona, Real Madrid and Inter Milan, winning 127 caps for the Portugal national team.
“Football transcends boundaries and unites people around the world. I have played in stadiums where the electric atmosphere sparks emotions that cuts across cultures and nationalities; this was the exact same experience I had playing this beautiful game at 20,000 feet above ground with a group of fearless football fanatics taking their passion for the sport to unprecedented heights,” remarked Figo.
“Football continues to be a sport enjoyed in every corner of the world. At Guinness World Records™, we meet people with different backgrounds every day. By declaring this new achievement Officially Amazing™, we hope it will contribute to bringing communities together through the shared love of the sport and the excitement of seeing incredible records being broken,” said Shaddy Gaad, Senior Marketing Manager – Guinness World Records™.
Mastercard has a rich history of connecting people to their passions, their enthusiasm for sport, and bringing them once-in-a-lifetime experiences. During Expo 2020 Dubai, Mastercard hosted its Priceless Surprises series to connect guests to their passions at the global event. Among its hero activities, the company presented football enthusiasts with a unique opportunity to meet Luis Figo as well as a chance to see the UEFA Champions League Trophy, bringing football fans closer to the sports icon.
Mastercard partners with a range of organizations across sports, music, fashion, arts and entertainment around the world. Mastercard’s partnership with UEFA Champions League dates back to 1994 and the brand has been an active supporter of women’s football for more than 25 years.
Log on to Priceless.com to learn more and discover the range of priceless experiences around the world made possible by Mastercard.
The ‘Highest Altitude Game of Football on a Parabolic Flight’ game can be watched here.
Netflix is releasing a specially curated collection of 11 short films titled “New Saudi Voices”, to celebrate the creativity of emerging Saudi filmmakers.
The collection spans a rich subset of genres – from horror and fantasy to family adventure, animation, sci-fi, and non-fiction, with the content showcasing the breadth and depth of Saudi’s emerging talent. The 11 films are part of the New Saudi / New Cinema Shorts showcased at the Red Sea Film Festival last year, and encapsulate the work of some of the most promising new voices in the Kingdom.
Stories will span across decades, from the past of the 1960s, to modern day, and into an imagined future of the 2090s. The red thread across all of them is the chance to experience a distinctly Saudi perspective.
For example, Mohamed Basalamah’s ‘Hallucinated’ follows a deliveryman who suffers from insomnia and worsens until his reality and hallucinations become indistinguishable. Other fictional plots like ‘The Day I Lost Myself’ by Rami Alzayer explore how a young man with anxiety finds himself stuck in an elevator on his way to an interview. Documentaries like ‘Arufea’ by Abbas Alshuwayfie offer a peek into an old Saudi neighborhood, and Omar Al Omirat’s ‘Covida the 19th’ explores lifestyle changes post-pandemic. The collection also includes an animated short called ‘Whisper down the lane’ by Raghad Albarqi, ‘The Jakar’ by Abdulaziz Saleh, ‘The Palm Witch’ by Hala Alhaid, ‘Hide and Seek’ by Mohammad Helal, ‘Red Circle’ by Abdulaziz Sarhan, and ‘Little Bird’ by Khalid Fahad.
Nuha el Tayeb, Director Content Acquisitions, Netflix, MENA and Turkey, said: “We’re very excited to amplify the voices of up-and-coming filmmakers in Saudi Arabia through this collection. There’s incredible talent in the Kingdom, and they have unique stories to tell. We hope that as people tune into the films, they learn more about these creators, and catch a glimpse of their passion, originality, and creativity, as we have”.
Netflix has already had great success with Saudi shows and films on Netflix like Masameer, Six Windows in the Desert, Takki, and Whispers spearheaded by Saudi creators and talent, and is excited to bring this expressive collection of films to its members around the world.
The films will be available on Netflix on September 29, 2022.
New Saudi Voices
List of Films & Synopses
→ Hallucinated
Name of Film: Hallucinated Director: Mohammed Basalamah Synopses: A deliveryman suffers from insomnia, which continues to worsen until his reality and hallucinations become indistinguishable.
→ Little Bird
Name of Film: Little Bird Director: Khalid Fahad Synopses: A little boy faces numerous challenges in his isolated and frustrating life — but he dreams of being as free as a bird. A short from Khalid Fahad.
→ Red Circle
Name of Film: Red Circle Director: Abdulaziz Sarhan Synopses: A man living in New York struggles to find the right words for his online storytelling class.
→ Covida the 19th
Name of Film: Covida the 19th Director: Omar Al Omirat Synopses: An exploration of lifestyle changes and unique perspectives that have come out of the COVID-19 pandemic.
→ AlRufea
Name of Film: Alrufea Director: Abbas Alshuwayfie Synopses: The inhabitants of an old, beautiful neighborhood share why their home holds such a special place in their hearts.
→ The day I lost myself
Name of Film: The day I lost myself Director: Rami Alzayer Synopses: A young man with anxiety finds himself stuck in an elevator on his way to an interview. From director Rami Alzayer.
→ Acceptance Land
Name of Film: Acceptance Land Director: Mansour Assad Synopses: A young mother struggles to navigate a dystopian Saudi Arabia, where one’s status depends on the color of their clothes.
A creative photo of a queen with a painted pierced face and a chess king in her mouth.
→ Hide and seek
Name of Film: Hide and seek Director: Mohammad Helal Synopses: A young woman returns home and goes about her daily nighttime routine — and eventually realizes she’s not alone.
→ Whisper down the Lane
Name of Film: Whisper down the Lane Director: Raghad Albarqi Synopses: A series of phone calls between five people eventually escalates into a conflict. Raghad Albarqi directs this animated short.
→ The Palm Witch
Name of Film: The Palm Witch Director: Hala Alhaid Synopses: Two friends set off to search for a lost pet — despite stories of a witch who kidnaps children if they wander around at night. Directed by Hala Alhaid.
→ The Jakar
Name of Film: The Jakar Director: Abdulaziz Saleh Synopses: Explore the story of an annual boat race that originated in the 1800s and was held for over 100 years in Jeddah.
Xiaomi revealed its advanced foldable flagship smartphone, Xiaomi MIX Fold 2, at a new product launch event in Mainland China, alongside the highly-anticipated annual speech of Lei Jun, Founder, Chairman, and CEO of Xiaomi.
Xiaomi MIX Fold 2 is a giant technological leap in the ultra-slim foldable smartphone space. Measuring just 5.4mm¹ unfolded, Xiaomi MIX Fold 2 offers a consistent viewing experience on both its inner and outer displays. Additionally, it delivers an authentic Leica imagery experience and outstanding power efficiency with the latest Snapdragon® 8+ Gen 1 mobile platform.
In addition to Xiaomi MIX Fold 2, Xiaomi also announced Xiaomi Pad 5 Pro, Redmi K50 Ultra, and a host of ecosystem products.
Self-developed Micro Waterdrop Hinge
Xiaomi MIX Fold 2 boasts a revolutionary design. It is one of the thinnest foldable smartphones on the market with a folded body just 11.2mm¹ thin—significantly slimmer than many other foldable devices. Both edges measure just only 5.4mm¹ unfolded, offering a pleasant in-hand feel experience.
To achieve these breakthroughs in form factor, Xiaomi focused on refining the hinge – the core component of the foldable smartphone. Xiaomi MIX Fold 2 is equipped with a self-developed Micro Waterdrop Hinge which features a smaller bending radius, thinner screen modules, customized mini rotating hinge, and utilized an integrated solder-free precision process to create a carbon fiber double-wing floating panel. Together, these highly integrated components reduced the number of parts to only 87, enabling a lighter and thinner hinge design than ever before.
In addition, both sides of the hinge use space stacking technology, and use large hidden spaces on both sides of the hinge for soft boards, achieving a 20% increase in space utilization and thereby offering the 5.4mm¹ flat design with balanced weight distribution.
Two displays, one exceptional viewing experience
Xiaomi MIX Fold 2 sports an inner folding design, with two AMOLED flagship screens of two different sizes on two respective sides. The outer display adopts a 21:9 classic ratio design, allowing for excellent compatibility with most applications and taking into account user experience when handling. The 6.56″ display features Samsung E5 material, a resolution of 2520×1080, and supports 120Hz high refresh rate and P3 color gamut, with a brightness of up to 1000nit–giving it an edge over other common displays thanks to its outstanding user experience.
On the inside, Xiaomi MIX Fold 2 flaunts an 8.02″ Samsung Eco² OLED display. It adopts POL-LESS technology, replaces the traditional polarizer with an ultra-thin color filter, and uses a black matrix material to reduce reflection on the screen. Compared to traditional displays, light transmittance has been increased by 33%, with power consumption reduced by 25%. This screen has a resolution of 2160×1914 and supports a P3 color gamut and LTPO 2.0 1-120Hz AdaptiveSync Pro. The ultra-low anti-AR film allows the display to reduce reflectivity to less than 2%, resulting in a more detailed viewing experience and pleasing aesthetics.
The two displays offer an exceptionally consistent user experience, both supporting 120Hz refresh rate, professional screen calibration on primary colors, 1,000nit brightness, and Dolby Vision. Regardless of which screen is used, the device supports dual ambient light sensing on the front and back, providing for natural and smooth automatic brightness adjustment.
MIUI Fold 13, the new standard for foldable displays
Xiaomi MIX Fold 2 runs on the latest MIUI Fold 13 operating system. Developed as a permutation of the classic MIUI interface, it is perfectly adapted to foldable form factor, with screen interaction optimizations offering advancements in user experience.
The smart screen desktop design adapts to the foldable display and doubles the viewing area of the smartphone. As well as maintaining visual consistency, it allows for the hundreds of available MIUI widgets to be used without deformation, increasing both aesthetics and usability.
Xiaomi MIX Fold 2 system applications are customized for its large screen, and a large number of app interfaces have been redesigned for a better on-screen experience. Calendar, file management, voice recorder, notes, and other applications apply a new column design to take full advantage of the large screen. Third-party application adaptation will be conducted according to solutions available in Android 12L, providing more native support capability for third-party apps.
Additional Xiaomi MIX Fold 2 innovations include updates in smart screen interaction. Users can now three-finger swipe to split screen. Floating windows can be quickly accessed through the sidebar, which can also be used to exit split screen mode. The design of floating windows and notifications has also been adjusted, and multitasking on a smartphone has never been quite this efficient.
Authentic Leica Imagery, dual-quality approach
Xiaomi has set a new imaging standard for smartphone photography, combining Leica’s imagery expertise with Xiaomi’s rich experience in the field of computational photography. To ensure optical excellence, Xiaomi MIX Fold 2 is equipped with a 50-megapixel IMX766 main camera, with 7P lenses all using ALD low-reflection coating. Also featured are a 13MP ultra-wide angle camera and an 8MP telephoto camera with 2x optical zoom and portrait capabilities.
In addition to the Leica-certified Summicron lens, Xiaomi MIX Fold 2 offers access to two photographic styles: The “Leica Authentic Look” and the “Leica Vibrant Look”, both offerings enhanced creative freedom for the photographer.
With the Xiaomi ProFocus support, Xiaomi MIX Fold 2 offers fast camera startup, quick captures, and continuous shooting support of up to 30 frames per second.
In regards to video, Xiaomi MIX Fold 2 supports Dolby Vision HDR recording, as well as both Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos for video viewing. Videos shot on Xiaomi MIX Fold 2 will look amazing, particularly when utilizing UGC platforms that support Dolby Vision, allowing users to share exceptional visuals online.
Snapdragon® 8+ Gen 1 and flagship performance packed in an ultra-slim body
In addition to its revolutionary thin and light foldable screen design, Xiaomi MIX Fold 2 takes advantage of the latest Qualcomm Snapdragon® 8+ Gen 1 mobile platform for snappy performance. TSMC’s 4nm manufacturing process enables a significant increase in energy efficiency while integrating tens of billions of transistors, into an area the size of a fingernail. The advanced process allows both CPU and GPU to receive a 10% boost in performance, while simultaneously improving CPU and GPU energy consumption by 30%. This upgraded design allows the ultra-slim smartphone to maintain higher speeds and efficiency at the same time.
Excellent power efficiency allows for a long-lasting battery, with a full day of use being possible even when the inner screen is frequently used, with extended use when using primarily the outer display.
Xiaomi MIX Fold 2 also packs a cooling system equipped with a large-area VC, rarely seen on foldable smartphones. The high-quality VC offers a surface area of up to 2,520mm², enabling a 50% improvement in thermal conductivity compared to typical VCs. The inner layer of the battery is covered with second-generation boron nitride heat dissipation film, with an area of up to 3715mm². Finally, a multi-layer high-density graphite sheet creates a solid foundation for Xiaomi MIX Fold 2’s excellent sustained performance.
Xiaomi Pad 5 Pro – work and entertainment with a 12.4″ large display
Xiaomi Pad 5 Pro features a large 12.4″ display, which users can fully utilize for a highly efficient and convenient experience in both work and entertainment scenarios.
The 12.4″ high-quality display features an ultra-high resolution of 2560×1600, 120Hz high refresh rate, and hardware-level blue light reduction, providing a comfortable and smooth experience for video-watching and swift multitasking on split screens. Xiaomi Pad 5 Pro’s built-in conference mode can convert speech into text in real-time, quickly distinguish between different speakers, and supports real-time translation between Chinese and English.
Redmi K50 Ultra – an all-round upgrade
Joining the beloved Redmi K50 Series is Redmi K50 Ultra. With large-scale upgrades in performance, display, camera, and charging, Redmi K50 Ultra takes product and user experience to the next level.
Redmi K50 features the latest Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 mobile platform and a 1.5K flatscreen display. The smartphone’s triple camera consists of a 100MP main camera, 8MP ultra-wide angle camera, an 2MP telephoto camera, enhanced by implementing numerous Xiaomi AI Image solutions. The combination of advanced software and hardware allows Redmi K50 Ultra to significantly improve the quality of images. Furthermore, the combination of a 5,000mAh battery and 120W HyperCharge technology ensures hassle-free daily use with as short as 19 mins needed for a full charge.²
Also announced today was Redmi K50 Ultra Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula One Team Summer Edition. Adding on to the ultimate performance of the standard Redmi K50 Ultra, it incorporates the team’s signature silver, petroleum green lines, and carbon fiber textures into the design.
In addition, Xiaomi also launched today: Xiaomi Buds 4 Pro, Xiaomi Watch S1 Pro, Xiaomi Conference Tapcast, Xiaomi Bluetooth Speakerphone, Mijia Smart Purifying Range Hood P1, and Mijia Dual-Drum Washer Dryer 15kg.
Pricing and Availability
Xiaomi MIX Fold 2 comes in two colors: Black and Gold, with three storage variants.
12GB+256GB – priced at RMB 8,999
12GB+512GB – priced at RMB 9,999
12GB+1TB – priced at RMB 11,699
Xiaomi Pad 5 Pro comes in three colors: Black, Silver, and Forest Green, with three storage variants.
6GB+128GB – priced at RMB 2,999
8GB+256GB– priced at RMB 3,499
12GB+512GB – priced at RMB 4,199
Redmi K50 Ultra comes in three colors: Black, Silver, and Blue, with four storage variants.
8GB+128GB – priced at RMB 2,999
8GB+256GB – priced at RMB 3,299
12GB+256GB – priced at RMB 3,599
12GB+512GB – priced at RMB 3,999
Redmi K50 Ultra Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula One Team Summer Edition will retail at RMB 4,199.
All of these devices will be available for sale via official Xiaomi channels in Mainland China starting on August 16.
¹ Actual measurements between individual products may vary. All specifications are subject to the actual product.
Xiaomi, the leading smartphone company, has underlined its commitment to transforming people’s lives with the power of quality technology.
Meeting the demands of the Kingdom’s sophisticated consumers — customers with a passion for functional devices powered by cutting-edge tech. Distinguished by modern, responsive features, the Xiaomi Watch S1 and Xiaomi Watch S1 Active are uniquely designed to cater to the lifestyle preferences of Saudi consumers. Both fully equipped with 24/7 health programs and apps, as well as engaging entertainment offerings and business functionalities, the state-of-the-art smartwatches are tailor made for tech lovers eager to improve and take full control of their lives.
Built with advanced technology, the Xiaomi Watch S1 serves as both business partner and workout companion. The multipurpose device supports 117 workout modes — including basketball, tennis, swimming, and HIIT — enabling wearers to get moving. It also offers round-the-clock health tracking, monitoring users’ heart rate, sleep quality, stress levels, blood oxygen saturation (SpO2), and more. Users can sync these data points with their Strava or Apple Health apps.
The practical smartwatch is also ideally suited to on-the-go professionals, with Bluetooth calling — supported by a built-in microphone and speaker — app notifications, and wireless charging enabling users to work as freely, effectively and efficiently as possible.
Boasting many of the same amenities as the Xiaomi Watch S1, the Xiaomi S1 Active has been launched with sporty consumers in mind. Designed to help people across the Kingdom style up their fitness, the wearable — as with the Xiaomi Watch S1 — supports 19 professional fitness modes, as well as close to 100 extended options.
The smartwatch allows users to make their workouts even more efficient by accurately monitoring and analyzing key data points. With the click of a button, Xiaomi S1 Active owners can also customize their device settings to access their favorite sports modes. In addition to the rich diversity of its fitness modes and options — all of which can be accessed with just one click — the smartwatch also allows users to care for themselves and put their wellness in their hands, 24/7.
Its multi-channel PPG bio-sensor performs 24-hour heart rate monitoring, while an advanced sleep monitoring function — upgraded with a 35% increase in accuracy and support — enables consumers to record and improve their sleep patterns through different stages.
The smartwatch allows users to make their workouts even more efficient by accurately monitoring and analyzing key data points, including a detailed health index. The easy-to-use Mi Fitness app also puts daily health data at users’ fingertips, while helping consumers to achieve a better work-life balance with stress detection and a selection of breathing exercises.
Notably, the watch supports the auto-detection of treadmill, outdoor running, and walking, making workouts more seamless, straightforward, and simple to track. Boasting a 5 ATM water resistance* rating, the pool-friendly gadget is also ideal for swimmers.
Like the S1, the S1 Active is built to last with 12 days of battery life. Featuring a 1.43″ AMOLED display, the intricately designed watch offers an elevated quality of viewing experience, satisfying users with impressive smoothness and clarity.
The launch of the Xiaomi Watch S1 and Xiaomi Watch S1 Active coincides with the growing popularity of smartwatches and wearables across the region. As one of the most connected countries in the world, Saudi Arabia is home to some of the most ardent smartwatch consumers, and the popularity of wearable devices in the Kingdom is only set to increase in the coming years.
Product Availability:
Xiaomi Watch S1 is available for purchase from Jarir Bookstore at a price of 889 SAR and comes in Black and Silver.
Xiaomi Watch S1 Active is available for purchase from Jarir Bookstore at a price of 699 SAR and comes in Space Black, Moon white and Ocean Blue.
Netflix is releasing a specially curated collection of 21 Arab films on July 7 by women filmmakers spanning various genres, including documentaries, drama, and romance, via a dedicated collection on the service titled ‘Because She Created’.
The collection includes the works of critically acclaimed Algerian, Egyptian, Jordanian, Kuwaiti, Lebanese, Moroccan, Palestinian, Saudi, Sudanese, Syrian, and Tunisian directors, and celebrates the creativity of the Arab world’s greatest female storytellers. While these stories are distinctly and authentically Arab, the themes will resonate with women across the world, uniting women from all walks of life through beautiful and poignant content.
Cinematic masterpieces like ‘Let’s Talk’ by Marianne Khoury invites viewers to dive into the life of her late uncle and Egyptian Director Youssef Chahine, Nariss Nejjar’s ‘Stateless’ reflects on North African history from a female perspective, Suha Arraf’s ‘Villa Touma’, Leyla Bouzid’s ‘A Tale of Love and Desire’, Fatma Zamoun’s multi-character drama ‘Parkour’ and Suzannah Mirghani’s ‘Al-Sit’ – all bring fresh, unique and underrepresented narratives to life, placing the female perspective front and center. Other films include ‘Sanctity’ by Saudi filmmaker Ahd Kamel, ‘Bint Werdan’ by Kuwaiti director Maysaa Almunin, ‘Sleepless Nights’ by Egyptian filmmaker Maggie Morgan, ‘The Room’ by Algerian filmmaker Latifa Said and ‘Selma’s Home’ by Jordanian filmmaker Hanadi Elyan, among others. The collection aims to give more people a chance to see their lives reflected on screen and entice new audiences to discover the work of female storytellers from the Arab world.
Nuha el Tayeb, Director Content Acquisitions, Netflix (MENA and Turkey) says, “We’re proud to be telling more stories by Arab filmmakers that can resonate with women from all walks of life and from around the world. More women behind the camera also has a ripple effect on women in front of it and the stories in this collection showcase the work of Arab women filmmakers in the region. Together, their voices provide inspiration for the wider creative community, while highlighting the importance of equitable representation in storytelling, and why it matters.”
Netflix launched the ‘Because She Created’ platform last year as a virtual panel discussion hosting Arab women filmmakers to talk about the evolving role of women in the Arab film industry. Following its success, Netflix also teamed up with the Cairo International Film Festival to host the second edition of Because She Created as a fireside chat with renowned Tunisian actress Hend Sabry. The ambition with this collection is to showcase the work of some of the most influential filmmakers from the Arab world so that more stories made in the Arab world can be loved globally.
All the films are new on Netflix. The collection will be live on July 7 and can be accessed at netflix.com/becauseshecreated
This summer, it’s time to put down your remote and pick up your passport for a guided walking tour to see some of the most iconic cities in Europe – London, Paris, and Madrid – through the eyes of your favorite Netflix characters.
For one week, from 11 – 17 July, Netflix will partner with SANDEMANs New Europe Tours for a series of free guided walking tours that share history and details about these amazing cities, highlight must-see locations from Netflix shows, and films, and unveil behind-the-scenes insights from filming.
Great stories transport us to places we’ve never been, immerse us in cultures far from our own, and peak our curiosity about the world around us. So far this year, more than 70% of viewing on Netflix has come from members watching a title from a country other than their own. Netflix is where audiences go to fall in love with other countries and cultures. And we’ve heard from our members that the location of that series or film is frequently their top travel destination, driving cultural affinity and tourism. In fact, Netflix members are 2.4x more likely to say that the locale of a series or film they watched is their #1 travel destination and they have an increased interest in famous landmarks and monuments (+24%), local history (+25%), food and drink (+26%)1.
Now we want to find new ways to connect members to the stories, and the places, that they love.
Ready to eat a croissant in Place de l’Estrapade like Emily in Paris or experience a money heist in Callao like La Casa De Papel?
Visit netflix.neweuropetours.eu/ to learn more. But be sure to reserve your spot soon – spaces are limited and just like secrets in the ton, they won’t last long.
Destination Jeddah
Destination Riyadh
Destination Sharqiya
Destination Listing
