Tech Features
Lessons for UAE & KSA Telecoms From Vi’s 5G Transformation Journey

By Anthony Behan, Global Managing Director, Communications, Media & Entertainment at Cloudera

When Vodafone India and Idea Cellular merged six years ago to form Vi, the new telecom giant faced immediate challenges. The notable ones included scaling for one of the world’s fastest-growing mobile markets, embracing the prospects of 5G while negotiating the complexity of 4G with a sizable database, and handling an unprecedented surge in data volumes. With over 200 million subscribers, Vi needed a solution that could support its vision for the future while addressing the pressing realities of the present.
To strengthen their vision and address the pressing realities of the present, the telecom giant adopted a hybrid cloud solution, to move high-velocity workloads, like network data, to on-premises systems and leverage the flexibility of the public cloud for dynamic applications, to deliver both cost savings and agility while optimizing its operations. The results? A staggering $20–$30 million saved in infrastructure costs and an 80% reduction in support tickets. Today, Vi is better equipped than ever to handle AI/ML workloads, paving the way for future innovations.
The Role of Hybrid Cloud in Managing 5G Workloads
Hybrid cloud solutions like Cloudera have emerged as the gold standard for carriers navigating the demands of the 5G era. High-velocity workloads, such as network data, benefit from the control and cost efficiency of on-premises infrastructure. At the same time, dynamic workloads, including AI-driven services and customer applications, thrive in public cloud environments that offer unmatched scalability.
By adopting hybrid cloud platforms, telecom operators can balance these competing demands. For Vi, this approach was transformational, enabling seamless workload shifts between environments while optimizing costs and maintaining high performance. For Middle East telecoms, embracing hybrid cloud is a natural step to support their nation’s growing tech ambitions.
The Data Explosion in the 5G Era
As faster, more powerful networks rolled out, they triggered a data explosion. Managing this data requires real-time processing, as customer demands grow increasingly sophisticated. Vi’s story reflects the challenges faced by telecom carriers worldwide in the 5G era. Traditional data architectures often struggle to keep up, and without robust, scalable hybrid data platforms, carriers risk falling behind in this high-stakes race.
In KSA and UAE, where technological advancements are a national priority, telecom operators are encountering similar challenges. From supporting the country’s smart city initiatives to enabling autonomous vehicles, 5G applications demand seamless performance. The ability to manage data efficiently isn’t just a competitive advantage—it’s essential.
AI and Automation Are The Future of Telecom Operations
The next frontier in telecommunications is automation powered by artificial intelligence. According to a report by PwC, the contribution of artificial intelligence to the GDP of the Middle East is expected to reach 14% across the Technology, Media, and Telecommunications industries by 2030.
AI is already transforming customer service, predictive maintenance, and network management, but implementing these models requires immense computing power and real-time data processing capabilities. Hybrid cloud solutions are the key enabler, providing the foundation for AI/ML workloads to thrive.
Vi’s modernization journey highlights the importance of a future-ready data architecture. By integrating AI-driven streaming analytics, Vi has enhanced its operational efficiency and laid the groundwork for continuous innovation. This serves as a blueprint for UAE telecoms aiming to lead in AI-driven transformations in the region.
Lessons for Middle East Telecom Operators
The region’s commitment to becoming a global tech hub, coupled with its rapid adoption of cutting-edge technologies, positions it as a leader in the 5G era. However, realizing this potential requires modernization. Adopting hybrid cloud architectures help regional carriers reduce infrastructure costs, improve operational reliability, and create a scalable platform for future growth. Vi’s success offers valuable lessons for telecom carriers in the Middle East.
Moreover, UAE and KSA telecoms, in particular, have the unique opportunity to align with national initiatives like smart cities, digital transformation, and AI adoption, ensuring they remain at the forefront of innovation.
Building a Future-Ready Telecom Industry
The 5G era presents both challenges and opportunities. By embracing hybrid cloud solutions, telecom companies can turn data from a burden into a powerful enabler of growth. Hybrid cloud allows carriers to manage high-velocity workloads efficiently, scale dynamically, and prepare for a future defined by AI and automation.
For Middle East telecom carriers, the path is clear – invest in modern, flexible, and scalable data platforms. This investment is crucial for delivering superior user experiences and innovative services. Scalable platforms will enable carriers to handle increased data demands efficiently while embracing advanced analytics will enhance data-driven decision-making and operational efficiency. Ultimately, staying competitive hinges on seizing the immense opportunities that 5G presents.
Tech Features
Sustainable AI Practices Driving Ethical and Green Tech

By Mansour Al Ajmi, CEO of X-Shift

Sustainable AI practices are no longer optional—they are essential for shaping technology that benefits both people and the planet. As artificial intelligence transforms industries from healthcare to transportation, the challenge is to ensure its growth is ethical, environmentally responsible, and socially inclusive. This means addressing not only energy efficiency and carbon reduction but also governance, fairness, and long-term societal impacts.
Why Sustainable AI Practices Go Beyond the Environment?
AI is now deeply embedded in investment strategies, medical diagnostics, media platforms, and public infrastructure. While reducing energy usage is vital, true sustainability also requires ethical governance and the elimination of bias.
For example, biased training datasets can unintentionally reinforce social inequality. Studies, such as those from the MIT Media Lab, have shown that some AI systems perform poorly with diverse populations, highlighting the risk of discrimination. Addressing this means conducting regular algorithmic audits, enforcing transparency, and ensuring diverse representation in AI development teams.
The Environmental Impact of AI
Training advanced AI models consumes enormous computational resources. The process can generate carbon emissions equivalent to hundreds of long-haul flights. To counter this, tech leaders are investing in renewable energy and designing energy-efficient processors and cooling systems.
However, sustainable AI practices should become the default, not the exception. From sourcing materials responsibly to rethinking hardware infrastructure, the focus must be on green innovation by design.
Embedding Sustainability at the Strategic Core
Sustainable AI practices work best when integrated into an organization’s core strategy. Aligning AI solutions with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) can directly support climate action, reduce inequalities, and promote responsible consumption.
In the Middle East, initiatives like Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and the UAE Strategy for Artificial Intelligence demonstrate how sustainability and AI can align with national priorities. These strategies not only meet ethical standards but also deliver competitive advantages, building consumer trust and fostering innovation.
Governance for Responsible AI
Strong governance is key to ensuring sustainable AI practices are upheld. Regulatory frameworks, such as the European Union’s AI Act, guide transparency, accountability, and fairness.
Governance should enable innovation while preventing harm. Public-private partnerships, global cooperation, and industry alliances are critical to creating ethical, scalable, and resilient AI ecosystems.
Preparing the Workforce for the AI Era
McKinsey estimates that AI adoption could displace up to 800 million jobs by 2030. Sustainable AI practices must include reskilling and upskilling initiatives to ensure inclusive economic growth.
By investing in training programs, organizations can help employees transition to new roles in AI-related fields. This proactive approach strengthens workforce agility and supports long-term resilience.
Leadership’s Role in Driving Sustainable AI Practices
AI can significantly advance sustainability goals, from optimizing supply chains to reducing environmental waste. Companies like Unilever are already using AI to achieve greener operations, proving its real-world potential.
Yet leadership commitment is essential. Executives must set measurable goals, model ethical behavior, and integrate sustainability into company culture. This ensures that sustainability is not a side project but a core business value.
The Shared Responsibility for a Sustainable AI Future
Creating a sustainable AI future requires collaboration between individuals, corporations, and governments. Citizens should stay informed and question how AI affects them. Companies must embed sustainability into their AI strategies, while governments need to establish policies that encourage responsible innovation.
By acting now, we can ensure AI evolves as a force for good—advancing technology without sacrificing ethics, equity, or environmental stewardship.
Check out our previous post on WHX Tech 2025 to Drive Global Digital Health Transformation
Tech Features
Epicor CMO Kerrie Jordan to Drive Global Marketing Growth


Epicor CMO Kerrie Jordan has been appointed to lead the company’s global marketing strategy. This move marks a pivotal moment in the enterprise software leader’s expansion. Epicor, known for its industry-specific solutions for the make, move, and sell economy, announced the news on August 12, 2025, in Dubai.
Jordan brings a rare combination of senior product innovation and strategic marketing expertise. She will strengthen the Epicor brand, expand market reach, and deepen customer engagement worldwide.
Epicor CMO Kerrie Jordan Brings Product and Market Expertise Together
Vaibhav Vohra, Epicor President and Chief Product & Technology Officer, eVaibhav Vohra, Epicor President and Chief Product & Technology Officer, emphasized the importance of the appointment.
“Kerrie’s ability to connect product strategy with market execution makes her an ideal fit. Her leadership has already shaped our Cognitive ERP vision, and we’re excited to see her bring that same energy and insight to our marketing efforts.”
Since joining Epicor in 2023 as Group Vice President of Product Management and ISV Partner Programs, Jordan has advanced the company’s Cognitive ERP roadmap. This AI-driven approach turns ERP from a system of record into a system of action and insight, empowering supply chain businesses to operate smarter and faster.
A Vision for Accelerated Innovation and Growth
In her new role, Jordan will unite product innovation, analytics, and go-to-market strategies to accelerate customer time-to-value. She will also foster innovation and support Epicor’s global expansion.
“I’m honored to expand my role at Epicor,” Jordan said. “Epicor is at the forefront of enabling essential businesses to thrive through AI-driven, connected technologies. I look forward to amplifying our impact, building stronger relationships with customers and partners, and driving growth across global markets.”
A Career Built on Technology Leadership
Before joining Epicor, Jordan served in senior product marketing positions at Oracle. She developed strategies for enterprise software solutions and helped drive adoption. Earlier in her career, she led strategic marketing programs for technology clients during her consulting roles at global marketing firms.
Jordan is a recognized voice in cloud ERP, digital transformation, and supply chain innovation. She hosts Epicor’s “Manufacturing the Future” podcast, which features industry leaders discussing trends shaping manufacturing and supply chain sectors. She is also a Forbes Tech Council contributor. Jordan holds a Bachelor of Science in Marketing from Santa Clara University in California.
Epicor’s Commitment to Industry-Focused Growth
Epicor has served customers across automotive, building supply, distribution, manufacturing, and retail for more than 50 years. The company’s solutions are tailored to industry needs and adaptable to fast-changing market conditions.
Check out our previous post on WHX Tech 2025 to Drive Global Digital Health Transformation
Tech Features
In-Hand Comfort Meets Elegant Design – A UI You’ll Love and Performance You Can Count On– Meet Oppo’s Reno 14 Series!

Reviewed By Srijith KN
Device Reno 14F 5G
In today’s crowded smartphone market, very few devices make a lasting impression from the first hold. The Oppo Reno 14 Series does exactly that. Its rounded front design, sharp edges, and striking Iridescent Mermaid finish give it a premium look that stands out. At just 7.42 mm thick and 187 g, with aluminium-framed edges, it feels light yet sturdy in the hand.
The 6.57-inch LTPS OLED display offers a 120 Hz Full HD+ experience with HDR10+ support and a peak brightness of 1,200 nits. While the brightness could be slightly higher, the rich colour tones make it ideal for streaming and gaming. The high refresh rate ensures smooth scrolling and responsive visuals.
Display & Performance in the Oppo Reno 14
Powered by the Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 mobile platform, paired with 12 GB of RAM and 512 GB of UFS 3.1 storage, the Oppo Reno 14 Series delivers fluid performance. Everyday tasks, multitasking, and gaming feel effortless. Even after a month of use, there’s no lag, and the phone remains cool under pressure.
The signal reception is equally reliable, performing well even in remote mountain regions. For gamers, the combination of smooth frame rates and strong connectivity makes it a dependable choice.
Camera Setup Built for Creativity
The Oppo Reno 14 Series brings a 32 MP front camera and a triple rear camera system (50 MP + 8 MP + 2 MP). It supports 4K 60 fps HDR video recording, delivering sharp and vibrant footage. Oppo’s image processing handles lighting well, although the AI can occasionally produce slightly artificial tones. When it dials back the processing, the results are impressively natural.
Selfies from the front camera are detailed, making it a strong option for content creators. AI-powered tools such as AI Eraser, AI Reflection Remover, AI Unblur, AI Recompose, and AI Perfect Shot add versatility. Beyond photography, features like real-time translation and cloud-based voice transcription offer extra value.
Battery Life & Charging Speed on the Oppo Reno 14
Battery performance is one of the standout features. The massive 6,000 mAh battery easily lasts over a day of heavy use. Paired with 80 W fast charging, it goes from 0% to 100% in just 40–50 minutes, reducing downtime significantly.
Software and User Experience
Running on ColorOS 15, the interface is polished and responsive. The design is intuitive, though it comes with pre-installed apps that many users may want to remove for a cleaner setup. The combination of IP69 water and dust resistance, strong haptics, and a promised five years of major updates enhances its long-term value.
Verdict: A Strong Contender in Its Price Range
The Oppo Reno 14 Series blends premium design, solid performance, long battery life, and camera versatility into a package that offers excellent value. Whether for everyday use, creative projects, or gaming, it meets a wide range of needs without compromise.
For readers who enjoyed this review, check out our previous feature on Sustainable Tech: How Globant Shapes a Greener Tomorrow to see how innovation is shaping the tech industry.
-
Tech News1 year ago
Denodo Bolsters Executive Team by Hiring Christophe Culine as its Chief Revenue Officer
-
VAR5 months ago
Microsoft Launches New Surface Copilot+ PCs for Business
-
Tech Interviews2 years ago
Navigating the Cybersecurity Landscape in Hybrid Work Environments
-
Tech News2 months ago
Nothing Launches flagship Nothing Phone (3) and Headphone (1) in theme with the Iconic Museum of the Future in Dubai
-
Tech News2 years ago
Brighton College Abu Dhabi and Brighton College Al Ain Donate 954 IT Devices in Support of ‘Donate Your Own Device’ Campaign
-
Editorial10 months ago
Celebrating UAE National Day: A Legacy of Leadership and Technological Innovation
-
VAR1 year ago
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold6 vs Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold: Clash Of The Folding Phenoms
-
Tech Features1 year ago
The Middle East to Lead with Next-generation Mission Critical Communication Advancement