World Mental Health day: How Apple has Prioritized Wellness In Its Brand New Updates

1 / 4
Apple has a comprehensive line-up that promotes good health, including Apple Watch, Apple Fitness+, and the Health app. (Supplied)
Short Url
Updated 06 October 2021
Follow

World Mental Health day: How Apple has Prioritized Wellness In Its Brand New Updates

RIYADH: How much would you be ready to give up to gain an entire life-time of emotional wellness ahead of you? though it doesn't cost that much to gain the benefits, more and more people are willing to take or find the time to invest in their minds.

We are living in the age of easily-available distractions, and the prolonged nature of the pandemic has made us even more addicted to technology. Even if it has eased hardships of repeated lockdowns; we picked up some unproductive tech habits, and our phone became a magnet pulling us to check for missed work emails or breaking news, or even social media updates. The pandemic has increased our dependence on technology but as with food intake, a planned consumption can help. According to research, an average individual spends more than five hours a day on a device. Someone working or learning from home, much more. 

Though hard to visibly identify or quantify with medical readings, Mental health affects a person’s overall wellbeing and stability. And as technology companies are increasingly criticized for their role, whether real or perceived, in damaging our mental health, there’s pressure to find solutions.

To that end, Apple already has a comprehensive line-up that promotes good health, including Apple Watch, Apple Fitness+, and the Health app, but it would seem the tech giant is placing even more importance on wellness and in particular, mental health with new features. Some of you might already be familiar to some of the existing "wellness" features like Screen Time, an iPhone app that keeps tabs on the amount of time a user spends on their device, and Breathe, an Apple Watch app that guides users through a brief deep breathing exercise.

We are highlighting here for you interested new Health and wellness features pertaining to iPhone and Apple Watch that will help you keep your sanity!

iOS 15

The latest operating system from Apple brings “new ways to stay connected, and powerful features that help users focus, explore, and do more with on-device intelligence”. This bring major updates to FaceTime, a new ‘Focus’ feature to reduce distraction, and more ways to explore the world using Maps, Weather and Wallet.

Focus
“Focus is a new feature that filters notifications and apps based on what a user wants to focus on. Customers can set their device to help them be in the moment by creating a customised Focus or selecting a suggested Focus, which uses on-device intelligence to suggest which people and apps are allowed to notify them,” Apple says.

Apple also revealed a new notifications experience that allows you to filter notifications according to how important they are for each individual user. Of the new features, Apple says: “To help reduce distraction, a new notification summary collects non–time-critical notifications for delivery at a more opportune time, such as in the morning and evening. Using on-device intelligence, notifications are arranged by priority, with the most relevant notifications rising to the top, and based on a user’s interactions with apps. Urgent messages will be delivered immediately, so important communications will not end up in the summary, and it’s easy to temporarily mute any app or messaging thread for the next hour or for the day.”

Health for the Whole Family

The health app already allows you to set up emergency contacts, and note important information like your blood type, allergies, heart health and sleep. Now, you’ll be able to share this data with your family with a “new sharing tab that lets users share their health data with family members, caregivers or a care team”. That should bring you a certain peace of mind

watchOS

Apple Watch users will be excited to hear of updates that offer “greater access with Wallet, more capabilities with the Home app, new workout types and an updated Breathe app”.

New Workouts

Apple Fitness+ is an incredible personal trainer on your wrist, but two new workout types are set to make it even better for both your body and mind. Tai Chi and Pilates are much-loved practices for balance, breathwork and mood-boosting. Apple says: “These new workout types are supported by powerful, validated, custom-built heart rate and motion algorithms to provide users with accurate metrics.”

Breathe and Reflect

Apple Watch users will be familiar with the Breathe app, but in the future, this is set to become a whole new mindfulness offering. “Now more than ever, people are recognising the importance of finding small moments in their day to be more mindful. In watchOS 8, the Breathe app becomes the Mindfulness app, featuring an enhanced Breathe experience, plus a new session type, Reflect.”Like Breathe, Reflect lasts one minute but instead of merely pausing to inhale and exhale, the app will pose a mindful and thought-provoking question designed to remove you from the distractions around you and help you feel centred and refreshed, for example: “Reflect on one thing you’re grateful for and think about why you appreciate it so much”.

Sleeping Respiratory Rate

You can already track your sleep and heart rate, but the new software will help users reach sleep goals further by tracking sleeping respiratory rate, which is the number of breaths per minute.


Tumi unveils ‘19 Degree Lite’ luggage collection

Updated 02 April 2025
Follow

Tumi unveils ‘19 Degree Lite’ luggage collection

International travel and lifestyle brand Tumi has introduced 19 Degree Lite, the latest — and lightest — addition to the world of high-end luggage. To celebrate the new collection, German-raised fashion entrepreneur and creative Xenia Adonts stars in the first chapter of the campaign, with chapter two starring global ambassador Lando Norris to follow later this spring.

The 19 Degree Lite collection reimagines hardside for the lighter — rebuilding Tumi’s icon from the bottom up with revolutionary lightweight materials and details. Every element — from its highly resilient Tegris construction to unique features like the low-density magnesium telescoping handle — was considered, tested and selected for lighter journeys. The globally assorted collection includes four sizes available in three core colors: Blush, Titanium Grey, Black Graphite, and two seasonal colors: Amber and Cobalt.

To introduce the collection, Tumi tapped Adonts for her first-ever global brand campaign. Directed by Keane Pearce Shaw and photographed by Emma Summerton, the campaign channels the feeling of lightness that comes with carrying the 19 Degree Lite collection. 

The campaign follows Adonts as she travels through the hustle and bustle of Mexico City with her 19 Degree Lite by her side. Together, they navigate the busy streets with a fluidity of movement that spotlights freedom and effortlessness that 19 Degree Lite delivers.

“19 Degree Lite was born out of our deep understanding of how Tumi customers travel — and our passion for perfecting their journeys,” said Creative Director Victor Sanz. “Every component was carefully considered, tested and selected for lighter journeys without compromising quality or performance.”

The result of this meticulous design is an effortlessly lightweight collection that allows our customers to move through the world with even greater ease.”

The new collection ranges in price from $795-$995. 

The 19 Degree Lite collection is available in Tumi stores worldwide and on the brand’s website. 


Dubai Humanitarian wins gold at Middle East and North Africa Stevie Awards

Updated 02 April 2025
Follow

Dubai Humanitarian wins gold at Middle East and North Africa Stevie Awards

Dubai Humanitarian has won gold for “Innovation in Technology” in the nonprofit category at the Middle East and North Africa Stevie Awards. The recognition honors Dubai Humanitarian’s pioneering Humanitarian Logistics Databank, a digital platform transforming global aid coordination and delivery.

Developed to enhance emergency response efforts, the Humanitarian Logistics Databank is a first-of-its-kind platform that provides real-time visibility on lifesaving aid stockpiles across key humanitarian hubs, starting with Dubai, Italy, and Panama. Supported by customs authorities in each country, the platform streamlines aid operations, allowing response teams to quickly locate and mobilize critical supplies.

Giuseppe Saba, CEO and board member of Dubai Humanitarian, said: “We are honored to receive this prestigious award, our second Stevie Award for the Humanitarian Logistics Databank. When we created this platform in 2017, our goal was to enhance the way aid is prepositioned, managed and deployed, enabling a faster, more coordinated response to crises worldwide. Humanitarian aid is often lifesaving, and as a proactive member and host of the humanitarian community, we must continuously evolve to meet the urgent needs of those we serve.”

The Middle East and North Africa Stevie Awards celebrate innovation and excellence across industries, recognizing organizations that drive meaningful change through groundbreaking initiatives. Dubai Humanitarian’s achievement highlights the growing impact of digital transformation in the humanitarian sector, setting a new benchmark for efficiency and global collaboration.

Dubai Humanitarian, formerly known as the International Humanitarian City, is the largest humanitarian hub in the world. It was founded in 2003 by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al-Maktoum, vice president and prime minister of the UAE and ruler of Dubai, to proactively support the efforts of the international humanitarian community.


Turki B. Albacker named CEO of Aster Sanad Hospital

Updated 02 April 2025
Follow

Turki B. Albacker named CEO of Aster Sanad Hospital

Aster DM Healthcare has announced the appointment of Professor Turki B. Albacker as chief executive of Aster Sanad Hospital, based in the Kingdom. This strategic appointment aligns with Aster’s commitment to strengthening its presence in the Saudi healthcare sector and enhancing patient-centric care.

Albacker brings extensive expertise in healthcare leadership, cardiac surgery, and medical education to his new role. His appointment is expected to drive operational excellence, financial sustainability, and strategic growth at Aster Sanad Hospital. He will report directly to Mohamed Alshamari, CEO of Aster Hospitals and Clinics, Saudi Arabia.

As CEO, Albacker will lead hospital strategy, patient care optimization, and service expansion while ensuring high standards of healthcare delivery. His focus will be on strengthening Aster Sanad’s brand positioning, implementing lean operational processes, and enhancing hospital performance to support the organization’s long-term vision.

Alshamari said: “Prof. Turki’s leadership and deep expertise in healthcare will be instrumental in advancing Aster Sanad’s mission. His strategic approach and commitment to innovation will enhance patient outcomes and reinforce our commitment to excellence in the Kingdom.”

Turki has an impressive background in clinical practice, policy development, and medical research. Prior to joining Aster, he held several key leadership positions, including chairman of the Cardiac Sciences Department at King Fahd Cardiac Center, dean of Prince Sultan bin Abdulaziz College for Emergency Medical Services, and vice president of the Saudi Society of Cardiac Surgeons.

He has also served as a consultant for leading healthcare organizations and contributed significantly to medical policy and education. With nine years of experience in revenue cycle management and health insurance, he brings valuable insights into financial performance and operational efficiencies in the healthcare sector.

Turki said: “I am honored to join Aster DM Healthcare and lead Aster Sanad Hospital in its journey toward clinical excellence and patient-centric innovation. Together with our dedicated team, we will continue to elevate healthcare standards and expand access to high-quality services in Saudi Arabia.”


Jameel Motors brings Changan to South Africa

Updated 01 April 2025
Follow

Jameel Motors brings Changan to South Africa

Jameel Motors, a provider of mobility solutions and partner of choice to top automotive brands, and Changan Automobile, have signed an agreement to distribute sports utility vehicles, sedans, pickups, and new energy vehicles in South Africa.

This marks a new market entry for Jameel Motors. The South African market represents a significant long-term investment opportunity, given that it is the largest automotive market in Africa, with new vehicle sales totaling more than 500,000 in 2024, as well as the growing demand for affordable vehicles with the latest technology. In January 2025, the new passenger car market saw an increase of 18.3 percent cars sold year on year. Jameel Motors’ commitment includes creating jobs and developing local dealerships, contributing to the economic growth of the country.

Jameel Motors will initially focus on the distribution of Changan and Deepal products. Changan offers sedans, SUVs and pickup combustion engine vehicles, while Deepal focuses on NEVs. Both Deepal and Changan vehicles are ideal for South Africa’s diverse terrain and road conditions. Building on its strong track record, Jameel Motors is well positioned to meet local customer preferences. Vehicles will be available for purchase in Q4 2025.

Jasmmine Wong, CEO — mobility, Abdul Latif Jameel, said: “We are thrilled to announce Jameel Motors’ market entry to South Africa, especially as we do so with Changan Automobile, a forward-thinking automotive player with exceptional products. We are looking forward to driving long-term growth in the market and empowering drivers across South Africa with expanded and superior personal mobility choices.”

XIAO Feng, general manager, Changan Automobile Middle East and Africa business unit, said: “This is a new milestone for our business in South Africa. Changan Automobile, as a leading Chinese automotive company, has been committed to building a world-class automotive brand. We are confident that, through the strategic cooperation with Jameel Motors, we will be a key player in the South African market.”

Jameel Motors in South Africa will be headed by Marinus Venter, an accomplished professional with 18 years of experience leading automotive brands. Having been at the forefront of introducing new and innovative vehicle models to the market for the likes of Nissan and Mercedes-Benz Vans, Venter brings with him extensive expertise in after-sales, marketing, business planning, product management, customer service, and parts.

He said: “I am honored to join a business that is building on 70 years of automotive excellence, as we introduce Changan and Deepal vehicles to South Africa. By leveraging Jameel Motors’ extensive experience and Changan Automobile’s renowned focus on safety, quality, and technology, I believe we can effectively meet the diverse automotive demands of South African drivers and deliver a positive market experience.”

Changan Automobile is one of China’s four largest automotive groups, with a presence in 70 countries, sales of 2.7 million units (2024) and a strong focus on safety, innovation and technology.

Jameel Motors represents some of the world’s most recognized commercial and passenger vehicle brands and has operations in more than 10 countries across the Middle East, Africa, Europe, Asia and most recently Australia. This agreement marks another milestone as Jameel Motors continues to expand internationally and harness innovation for the future of mobility.


LG announces offers on washing machine range

Updated 01 April 2025
Follow

LG announces offers on washing machine range

LG Electronics’ washing machine lineup stands as a testament to the brand’s commitment to diverse home solutions, offering an extensive range that caters to every household’s unique laundry needs. The collection spans a variety of capacities, from compact 7 kg models designed for singles and small apartments to robust 24 kg machines engineered for large families with extensive laundry requirements.

Beyond capacity, LG’s washing machine range showcases remarkable diversity in design and functionality. Front-load models deliver sleek, contemporary aesthetics perfect for modern homes, while traditional top-load units provide classic convenience. The innovative WashTower configurations represent a breakthrough in space-saving design, offering flexible solutions for homes with limited laundry areas. LG also has a range of all-in-one washer dryers. These units, ideal for locations without enough space for both washer and dryers, offer a stylish and space-efficient solution without any compromise on performance.

The lineup’s color palette reflects LG’s understanding that appliances are more than just functional devices — they are design statements. From pristine white models that embody timeless elegance to sophisticated graphite finishes for contemporary interiors and elegant black models that exude class, from luxurious metallic tones to understated silver options, each machine is crafted to complement diverse home styles and personal preferences.

The company has announced new exclusive offers for their washing machine range. The offer, which will bring significant savings on a select range of washing machines will bring LG’s innovative technologies and sleek designs to homes across the UAE.

The brand has spread the offer across its top and front load units, which bring superior cleaning and efficient power consumption.

Additionally, the offer also covers LG’s flagship WashTower washing machines. These AI-enabled space saving towers are the pinnacle of laundry innovation, bringing together form and function, with its stylish design aesthetic and noise-free process.

LG’s washing machine lineup is also unique, thanks to its AI-powered capabilities, such as AI DD, which combines deep learning technology with 6 Motion Direct Drive to analyze fabric types and optimize washing cycles. This system generates six unique drum motions, providing tailored care for fabrics and minimizing damage. Additionally, this also contributes toward energy efficiency, thanks to precision control inverter technology.