Latest news with #JVC
Digital Trends
11 hours ago
- Digital Trends
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7: the upgrade we've been waiting for?
I never really thought that I'd want to go down the route of owning a flip phone, ever since I swore off my Nokia in the early 2000s (you know, the one with the weird felt covering and tiny notification window). Fast forward two decades, and I'm considering rejoining the race, thanks to the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7. Coming in at $1,100, it's not cheap, but it's definitely something different compared to the world of black rectangles, and it it feels like Samsung's Flip family has finally come of age. Recommended Videos Let's not forget that Samsung has started to get overtaken in the foldable phone world. The new Motorola Razr Plus is a similar design to this phone, with the full-front cover window, so Samsung needed to improve the style and performance of it's smaller foldable device to keep up. A new world First thing: I need to be honest, I've not had much hands-on experience of the folding flip phones since they appeared on the scene a few years ago. I've watched their appearance on the tech scene and taken note of how they look, what they do and how they're received, of course, but I've never been the one to review them. As it turns out, I'm glad that the Z Flip 7 is my first experience. The new front cover window, which stretches out to 4.1-inches across the front half of the phone, feels right. To compare it to the cramped, weirdly-designed window on the Z Flip 6, with its 3.4-inch screen… well, that would have annoyed me. While the Z Flip 7 is still a little thicker in the pocket, when folded down, it still doesn't feel weighty and it slips much further down inside the trouser leg, which is a plus. The front display, with the two cameras able to be used in selfie mode when combined with the cover window, is great for both video and photography capture, providing a 'proper' viewing experience to check your framing if you're ever trying to shoot your own footage. The camera quality, using the 12MP ultra-wide or the 50MP wide-angle lens, looked great, especially on the smaller screen. Samsung made a big deal about being able to use one finger to zoom in and out, like we were used to on old JVC camcorders, but this wasn't the simplest action to use, with a few taps needed – I'd have to like to see that be a little more intuitive. I hugely enjoyed the novelty of propping up the phone to use as a screen to take a selfie, and when viewed from the other side, a small touchpad with mouse control for the 'top' screen popped up. I'm not sure what this is for, other than being able to select items on the screen and have the mouse function in place of a finger… it felt fiddly and, well, pointless, so I'm looking forward to trying to figure out what that's for. The one thing that I was a bit worried about when trying a foldable flip phone for the first time was the length – it's a loooonger phone than you might be used to when it's fully extended. But in under a minute I was used to it, and I didn't mind the fact that watching YouTube or other 16:9 content didn't quite extend to the ends of the device. It also gives more real estate for scrolling, which is nice, and makes it easier to read articles on the go – especially combined with the fluid 120Hz display, which means content slides across the screen with ease. The screen size has been increased from a 6.7-inch display to a 6.9-inch one, with a 21:9 aspect ratio, which isn't that uncommon in smartphones these days, and the overall shape just fits the device well. The brightness of the screen, both front and back, is something that really helps – both in terms of being able to see what's on there from far away but also helping minimise the visibility of the crease down the middle of the phone. It's far from a problem, and a long way from the heavy divot in the middle of foldable devices from years gone by. It is still there, and the big question will be if it's more noticeable or visible after a few months' use, which will hopefully be less of a problem given the crease hasn't started out as deep as with other foldable phones on the market. The phone didn't feel fully straight at some times though, with the hinge feeling like it was flexing a touch inward on occasion. I couldn't tell in my limited hands on time with the phone whether this was just the way I was holding it, or if there was something I was missing, but it did make me feel a little more tentative using it. The Galaxy Z Flip 7 does have the new Flex Hinge, which means the design can be thinner but with a strong opening and closing mechanism, something Samsung has been tested to last for 200,000 flips open and shut. It certainly feels robust enough in the hand, and that's partly to do with the fact Samsung has made the circuitry waterproof, rather than needing to seal the phone around the bezel, which allows it to be a little thinner. The phone packs Gemini Live onboard as well, so you can chat with Google's AI chatbot, but I didn't have enough time to dig into that properly. In my limited tests, where I pressed the side button and asked it questions about what I was seeing on screen, it was working more as an 'AI intercom' to chat with Gemini, when I wanted to ask it more contextual questions about what I was seeing on the screen. The One UI 8 onboard felt more complete and comprehensive than on any Samsung phone I've used (and finally supports DeX on the smaller foldable phone from Samsung), and the Now Briefing bar on the front of the phone sounds like it'll be useful to show you things like health, boarding information or updates on your latest Uber ride. Again, these don't feel like earth-shattering changes, more Samsung finally catching this range up with the likes of other high-end flagships, like Apple has been using on the newer iPhones with the Dynamic Island. It's arguably more important here, given the Z Flip is the kind of phone that's going to be used more when shut, so these notifications become more pivotal. The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 comes in three colors: the coral red, black and a rather attractive blue (called 'Blue Shadow', whatever that means). The colored options in particular do look good in the hand, and I'd be hard-pressed to choose between the two. The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7, much like the Galaxy Z Fold 7, is a huge step forward for the South Korean brand – its devices have been stagnating in the foldable world, but these feel like a real effort to try and catch up. The Flip 7 is compact with a lot of power under the hood – if the battery life promises hold up (Samsung believes it's improved battery life with the 4300mAh power unit inside, able to last 31 hours in video playback) then this could be a serious contender for those that want high end power in a compact design, without having the same flat candy bar design as we see on most other phones.
What's On
7 days ago
- Business
- What's On
The ultimate guide to buying property in Dubai (without the headache)
Thinking about buying your first home in Dubai? Whether you're dreaming of a city-view apartment, a cozy townhouse, or a spacious villa, stepping onto the property ladder in Dubai is exciting, but it can feel overwhelming too. With so many options, rules, and paperwork, where do you even start? Good news: buying property in Dubai has never been more accessible, especially with new government initiatives making it easier for first-time buyers. Here's your go-to guide with top tips to help you navigate the process like a pro. 1. Make sure you're eligible Before you fall in love with a property, check that you meet the basic requirements. You need to be over 18 years old, have a valid Emirates ID, and be a UAE resident (for most of the government-supported programmes). Article (4) of Law No. 7 of 2006 outlines who can buy and own property in Dubai. According to the law, you can purchase real estate anywhere in Dubai if you are: A UAE citizen A GCC citizen 2. Set a realistic budget It's tempting to go big, but it's smarter to know your financial limits. Don't just think about the price of the home, factor in the down payment (usually 20–25% of the property value), Dubai Land Department (DLD) registration fees (typically 4%), agency commission (around 2%), mortgage arrangement and valuation fees, and ongoing yearly service charges. Tip: many banks now offer competitive mortgage options for first-time buyers. It's worth shopping around to find the best one. 3. Take advantage of first-time buyer benefits Dubai recently launched a first-time homebuyer initiative that gives residents access to priority booking on new projects, developer discounts, interest-free DLD registration fees, and flexible payment plans. You can register through the DLD website or Dubai REST app—just enter your preferences (type of property, budget, how you'd like to be contacted) and let developers and banks come to you. 4. Choose the right location Dubai is full of great communities, but your lifestyle and budget should guide your pick. Ask yourself: do I want to be close to work, schools, or the beach? Am I buying to live or to rent it out later? Is this area still developing or well-established? Popular choices for first-timers include Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC), Dubai Hills Estate, Town Square, and parts of Dubai South. 5. Have all the paperwork Once you've picked your dream place, make sure all the documents are in order. You'll need your Emirates ID and a copy of your passport, proof of income (salary certificate, bank statements), pre-approval from a bank (if taking a mortgage), a signed MoU (Memorandum of Understanding), and payment of DLD fees and registration. You'll also need the original title deed to the property and no-objection certificates (NOC) from a government agency or the former owner (if you're purchasing on the secondary market). For off-plan properties, a sales purchase agreement is also mandatory. 6. Think long-term Buying property is a big commitment, so think about resale value, rental potential, and how your needs might change. Will you need more space in a few years? Is the area growing or already saturated? 7. Ask questions. Lots of them. Don't be shy, this is your investment. Ask about the developer's reputation, payment timelines, service charge history, maintenance and handover process, and what's included (appliances, parking, amenities). 8. Check that your real-estate broker has a RERA license All real estate brokers should be registered with RERA which is a government license and means having relevant education, training and specific skills in Dubai property selling. 9. Get the property inspected It's important to know exactly what you're buying, especially with a purchase so important and valuable as a property. Before proceeding with any legal documentation, get your potential property inspected by a professional inspection company. 10. Negotiate the price Many properties will be advertised higher than what the seller is willing to pay for them, try and negotiate the price as much as possible. If you're buying an off-plan, you may have less room to negotiate but you can often choose flexible payment plans to help instead. Image: Archive
Khaleej Times
26-06-2025
- Business
- Khaleej Times
ALTA V1EW by Object 1 brings elevated, design-led living with sky-high leisure to JVC's evolving skyline
Object 1 has announced the launch of ALTA V1EW, a striking 54-storey residential tower set in District 10 of Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC). Designed to bring panoramic perspectives and serene elegance to everyday life, ALTA V1EW represents the next chapter in Object 1's commitment to lifestyle-focused, purpose-driven, and globally-minded real estate narrative. The development is scheduled for completion in Q4 2028 and includes a mix of studio, one-, and two-bedroom apartments, complemented by expansive terraces and sky-high amenities. Set to be one of the tallest buildings in JVC, ALTA V1EW Skyhomes, rooted in the concept of "Life Above It All", ALTA V1EW Skyhomes is a reimagination of modern living, combining intentional design with a deep connection to light, nature, and space. With eco-conscious architecture integrated throughout, each residence is built to provide both comfort and quiet sophistication. Located in one of Dubai's most dynamic and family-centric communities, JVC continues to attract residents and investors alike, with apartment prices climbing by 12% in the last year alone. The area's strong market performance underscores the ideal timing for ALTA V1EW's launch, aligning with growing buyer interest in well-connected communities offering long-term capital appreciation. Its affordability, strong rental demand, and proximity to key business districts make it especially appealing to young professionals. With quick access to major highways like Al Khail Road and Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road, as well as leading schools and nurseries, JVC stands out as one of Dubai's most active, family-friendly real estate hubs. Nearby landmarks such as Circle Mall, Palm Jumeirah, and City Centre Me'aisem further enhance its appeal. "The market today is shaped by people who want more than square footage; they want meaning, connection, and seamless functionality,' said Tatiana Tonu, CEO of Object 1. "ALTA V1EW is our answer to this new lifestyle mindset. It combines elevated design with grounded comfort, offering a truly distinctive skyline presence in JVC. With panoramic views, immersive nature-inspired elements, and a world-class suite of amenities, it's a sanctuary in the sky for those who seek beauty, privacy, and intentionality in how they live." Spanning 46 residential floors, ALTA V1EW has been designed to elevate every day with resort-style living. ALTA V1EW's interiors emphasise clarity and openness. In the residences, floor-to-ceiling windows invite natural light into every room, while ergonomic layouts offer a smooth flow between living, dining, and sleeping areas. High-quality finishes, contemporary kitchens, and stylish bathrooms elevate the everyday, making each space feel luxurious yet practical. Every detail, from spacious terraces to smart systems, is crafted to offer privacy, serenity, and timeless elegance. Residents will enjoy access to a comprehensive range of indoor and outdoor amenities. These include a Lagoon-style pool, water slide, Aqua & Sand oasis, kids' pool, outdoor and indoor play areas, a gym, clubhouse, BBQ area, tennis courts, table tennis zone, outdoor CrossFit setup, and lush landscaped gardens. For everyday convenience, the development will also feature retail outlets on the ground level, offering easy access to essential goods and services. Sky Deck amenities bring the experience full circle, featuring a Sky Leisure Deck, Sky Infinity Pool, and sunken lounge zones for relaxation. One of the development's standout features is the Sky Infinity Terrace, a viewing deck perched on the upper levels of the tower. This space offers a sweeping sight of Dubai's skyline and surrounding greenery, creating a tranquil escape above the city. Dubai's off-plan market continues to gain momentum, contributing 63% of all property transactions in 2024, reaching Dh254.46 billion. Developments like ALTA V1EW are ideally positioned to tap into this demand, offering long-term growth potential for investors seeking to enter the market at an early stage. With its elevated lifestyle offering, strategic location, and smart design, ALTA V1EW is an aspirational choice for end-users and investors alike. As Dubai's residential sector continues to grow, Object 1 remains focused on shaping homes that match the evolving aspirations of modern city dwellers.
Mid East Info
19-06-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
Nisus Finance invests Dh183 million in two properties, considers Dh669 million more investment in Dubai's real estate
Nisus announces stellar growth with a 55 percent jump in Assets Under Management surpassing IN₹15.72 billion as revenue growing 56 per cent in financial year ending March 31, 2025 Nisus Finance Investment Consultancy FZCO NiFCO Dubai, a fully-owned subsidiary of Nisus Finance Services Company Limited (NIFCO), announced the investment of Dh183 million in two properties in Dubai while it is currently actively evaluating investment to the tune of Dh669 million in new properties. The company is looking forward to a four-fold growth in its Assets Under Management AUM that jumped 55 percent to IN₹15.72 billion US$183.85 million in the financial year ending March 31, 2025, from IN₹10.12 billion US$118.35 million in FY2024. Around 29 percent or IN₹4.55 billion US$53.21 million of the AUM came from its operations in the UAE. NiFCO has also engaged M/S Houlihan Lokey to raise global capital for the UAE and India funds, while it has sanctioned US$68 million Dh250 million for investment in Dubai. It is in advanced discussions for a further US$200 million (Dh730 million) credit limit to deploy in the UAE's high-growth real estate market that will fuel the sector's growth. In addition, NiFCO is in advance stage of discussions on the deployment of a further US$200 million Dh730 million from two prominent global funds. These funds, once deployed, will increase the company's investment by US$468 million Dh1.71 billion this year. In 2024, NIFCO Dubai invested a total of Dh183.35 million including Dh93.85 million IN₹2.3 billion in a project located at the Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC) while it invested a further Dh89.5 million (IN₹2.15 billion) in a property in Furjan Dubai. 'We have already invested Dh183 million in two residential properties in Dubai and are actively evaluating Dh669 million (IN₹15.55 billion) in investments across residential and commercial projects in prime Dubai locations like JVC, Al Barsha, Sports City, and DIP. These strategic moves aim to unlock high-yield opportunities and fuel strong growth,' Amit Goenka, Chairman and Managing Director of Nisus Finance Group NiFCO, says. 'We are currently looking at bigger and more lucrative opportunities in the UAE and the GCC where the opportunities are growing and we want our investor community to benefit from these opportunities.' Nisus Finance meanwhile, reported a 35.5 per cent year-on-year growth in profit after tax reaching IN₹325.8 million (US$3.81 million) in the financial year ending March 31, 2025, compared to IN₹240.5 million (US$2.81 million) recorded in FY2024, on IN₹673 million (US$7.87 million) revenue which jumped 65 percent, compared to IN₹430.4 million (US$5.03 million) recorded in the previous year, due to strong growth in its UAE business carried out through its UAE subsidiary Nisus Finance Investment Consultancy FZCO (NiFCO Dubai). The company's total assets jumped to IN₹1.79 billion (US$20.93 million), up from IN₹491 million (US$5.74 million) in FY2024. The company reported a 42.3 percent Return on Capital Employed (ROCE) while Return on Investment (ROI) reached a healthy 33.3 percent in the last financial year when its Net Worth reached IN₹1.61 billion – reflecting a robust performance. The company's Revenue-to-AUM ratio stood at 4.3 percent while Earnings per Share (EPS) reached IN₹16.31 and Net Asset Value per Share reached IN₹67.31. Nisus Finance last year made some successful marquee exits. It had earlier invested in one of India's first self-redevelopment project in Mumbai. The project, managed by Trilogy Developers, merges two societies into a mixed-use development. Last year, it exited from the project with 21 percent IRR while it also unlocked value with high-yield exit under its Real Estate Special Opportunities Fund (RESO) 1 from a wholly-owned subsidiary of Shapoorji Pallonji Real Estate at 18.74 percent IRR. The company also divested from two projects in Bengaluru, achieving a 19 percent IRR through its Real Estate Credit Opportunities Fund (RECOF) 1. NIFCO also exited from Plotted Development Project Treasure Hills by Treasure Group in Indore with 19 percent IRR. 'Our FY25 performance reflects the strength of our core platform—lean, profitable, and execution-focused. With the IPO success, we are well-positioned to accelerate strategic growth in FY26 and beyond,' Amit Goenka says. 'Robust AUM growth, diversification of revenue base and strengthening of the India and UAE team, enhancing execution and delivery capabilities have been our key growth drivers, supported by targeted expenditure in marketing and brand building during the Initial Public Offering IPO phase, supporting long-term brand equity and visibility have helped us to record such impressive growth.' In India, investments worth IN₹10 billion are under evaluation across high-growth cities like Mumbai, Pune, Bengaluru and Indore covering both performing credit and special situations. The firm aims to drive strong returns and manage risk through strategic market selection and asset diversification. 'In the FY2026, our objective is to achieve IN₹40 billion (US$467.81 million) with total income ranging from IN₹1.2 billion to IN₹1.4 billion (US$16.37 million) while we remain on target to become a global asset manager with US$$1 billion AUM by 2028 through blue ocean strategies to drive multi-dimensional revenue streams by providing investment opportunities across capital stacks,' Amit Goenka says. Nisus leverages a decade of experience, utilising local market expertise and proprietary data to capitalise on emerging trends and consistently deliver superior risk-adjusted returns. NIFCO specialises in urban infrastructure financing and private capital market transactions. The company, along with its subsidiaries and associates, focuses on two main areas: Fund & Asset Management and Transaction Advisory Services. With over a decade of experience in India, Nisus manages IN₹15.72 billion in assets for FY 2025, to deliver gross IRR of more than 19 percent. The Company's RESO fund has been awarded an 'Excellent' rating by Care Edge Advisory, recognising its strong focus on diversified AIF funds and asset management. The company got listed on BSE SME platform on December 11, 2024. About Nisus Finance: Nisus Finance Services Co. Ltd. (NiFCO) is a leading, publicly listed real estate investment firm headquartered in India, with a proven track record of delivering high-yield, performance-driven assets across the country. In line with its global expansion strategy, NiFCO has extended its investor outreach across Southeast Asia, Europe, and the Middle East, bringing its deep sector expertise and innovative financial solutions to the UAE and broader GCC region. As part of this regional growth, NiFCO has launched the 'Nisus High Yield Growth Fund Closed Ended IC' ('Fund'), a DIFC-registered Property Fund and Qualified Investor Fund, incorporated under the laws of the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC). The Fund is an incorporated cell of Gateway ICC Limited and is advised by Nisus Finance Investment Consultancy FZCO ('NiFCO Dubai'), located in Dubai, UAE. Gateway Investment Management Services (DIFC) Limited has been appointed as the Fund Manager.
What's On
12-06-2025
- Business
- What's On
Some of the best places to buy property in Dubai in 2025
Dubai's property market is still on the move – just not always in the places you'd expect. As we hit the second half of 2025, investors are zooming out. Downtown is still glossy, sure, but it's the outer communities, solid mid-market spots, and niche formats that are starting to look like the smart play. Here's what's shaping the map – and where to look if you plan to buy property in Dubai in 2025. Dubai South & Dubailand Once considered 'too far,' these neighbourhoods are quickly becoming the ones to beat. Homes here are more spacious, better priced, and close to major infrastructure projects. Think: Expo City, Al Maktoum Airport, and future transit links. Yields? Around 6–7%, which outpaces most central spots. Dubai Hills Estate Popular with families and professionals, villas here are averaging around Dhs10 million – but they come with long-term growth (just over 9% annually) and everything you'd want in a master-planned community. Green, quiet, and livable. Dubai Hills Mall is the main retail hub in the area, offering a wide range of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. In terms of transport, the closest metro station is Mall of the Emirates, about 20 minutes by bus plus a 20-minute walk. There are future plans for a Metro station at Dubai Hills Mall, which would improve direct access to the neighbourhood. Palm Jumeirah & Dubai Marina If you've got the budget, these areas remain favourites for high-net-worth buyers. Palm villas average Dhs25M, while Marina apartments are sitting around Dhs2.3M. Growth's steady, not wild – but it's reliable. Palm Jumeirah isn't served by the Dubai Metro, but the Palm Monorail offers easy (and scenic) access across the island. The main retail and dining hub is Nakheel Mall, which features shops, restaurants, rooftop bars, and high-end dining options. Dubai Marina is well-connected by two Metro stations: Sobha Realty (for the northern end and Marina promenade) and DMCC (for Dubai Marina Mall, The Walk at JBR, and the beach). While Dubai Marina Mall is compact, it covers all the essentials for shopping and dining. Arabian Ranches Prices here rose 13% in late 2024. Villas now average Dhs1.9M, and it's easy to see why – schools, green spaces, and community vibes that actually feel like home. Arabian Ranches is designed for an active, family-friendly lifestyle, with scenic walking and cycling paths throughout the community. A well-connected internal road network links residents to schools, parks, retail, and dining. While there's no direct Metro access, several nearby bus stops provide connections to key areas across Dubai. JVC Prices dipped a little (down 8.3%), but yields are high, and transaction volumes are strong. You're not just getting in cheap – you're getting in early on a neighbourhood with legs. JVC doesn't have a metro station, but the nearest is Mall of the Emirates, with bus routes connecting to and from the community. Circle Mall serves as the main shopping hub, alongside other accessible spots like Mercato Shopping Mall, connected by public transport. Branded residences Think hotel-branded homes or design-linked properties. They're pricey – sometimes 30–40% more – but the demand is global. Most buyers are international, and supply is still tight. Villas still rule, but a plateau may be coming Villas now make up nearly a third of all home sales in Dubai. Demand is still high – especially from families and second-home buyers – but prices have surged up to 25% since 2022. With more supply incoming, expect prices to cool slightly in late 2025. Recap: Where to look next Dubai Hills Estate: Villas around Dhs10M, 9% projected annual appreciation. Arabian Ranches: Strong family appeal, average villa price Dhs1.9M. Palm Jumeirah & Dubai Marina: Luxury homes holding strong. Business Bay: Up 5.9% this year, driven by mixed-use appeal. JVC: One to watch. Prices dipped, but rental yields remain solid. Quick takeaway Dubai's property story for the rest of 2025? Broader, smarter, and a bit more strategic. It's less about the postcode flex – more about future value, better space, and stable returns.
