Latest news with #Skyline
Time of India
11-07-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Nokia phone maker HMD exits US, says '.... has forced difficult decisions'
HMD Global , the Finnish company that has manufactured Nokia-branded smartphones since 2016, is exiting the US—the third largest smartphone market, entirely, ending nearly a decade of attempts to revive the iconic brand in America. In an email statement to Wired, the company said it will "scale back" all US operations immediately, effectively killing Nokia phones in the United States for the second time in its history. With this move, both Nokia-licensed devices and HMD's own branded smartphones disappear from American shelves, including the user-repairable Skyline and the quirky Barbie flip phone that launched last year in partnership with Mattel. Tariffs and economic pressure drive Nokia phone-maker HMD out of US HMD cited "a challenging geopolitical and economic environment" as the primary reason for withdrawal, a diplomatic reference to the ongoing tariff situation that has squeezed profit margins for budget-focused phone makers, in its statement. The company specialized in affordable devices , where slim margins make it particularly vulnerable to additional costs from trade policies. The writing was on the wall for months, HMD quietly removed phones from sale, discontinued older models, and even relegated Nokia devices to a separate section of its website. The company's latest phone, the Fusion X1, never launched in the US despite being available in other key markets. HMD Global's US employees face uncertain future While HMD pledges to support affected American staff "during this transition," the company has remained notably silent about specific job numbers or severance packages. The vague corporate language suggests potential layoffs are coming, though HMD stopped short of confirming whether its entire US workforce will be eliminated or relocated to international operations. What happens to American HMD and Nokia users Current HMD and Nokia phone owners in America won't be left hanging. The company promises to honor all warranty coverage and provide ongoing support through its global teams, ensuring existing customers can still get help when needed. While some devices like the 2024 HMD Vibe remain available through Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart, these appear to be final stock clearances rather than ongoing sales. HMD's US website has already disabled purchasing functions, though product pages remain live. The Nokia licensing deal expires in March 2026, potentially marking the final chapter for the legendary brand's smartphone ambitions. AI Masterclass for Students. Upskill Young Ones Today!– Join Now
Otago Daily Times
11-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Otago Daily Times
The ‘Odd Couple's' new era
Queenstown's 'Odd Couple' are back at it. Longtime local broadcasters Craig 'Ferg' Ferguson and Grant Stewart tomorrow launch their new podcast, 'Ferg and Grant, Rated FnG'. Ferguson admits he'd never contemplated a podcast before, and hasn't spent a huge amount of time listening to them, but when things changed for him last year many people encouraged him to have a crack at it. "I realised Grant ... needed to be a part of it, but I didn't think we could create what we did with The Odd Couple, because we'd be cancelled straight away," he laughs. The pair's long-running breakfast show on Q92FM was the brainchild of the late Chas Drader. "It was madness — it was radio, I think, like no one else could do. "I was the married man with two young kids, and he was the reprobate who was, and still is to this day, a teenager with incredible wit and creative skills." Ferguson and Stewart actually met "way back in the early days ... pouring grog at Skyline". "We used to do things behind the bar with broomsticks, and out on the dancefloor with [the late] Kevin Lynch when he was entertaining. "We just seemed to have those natural synergies that I thought was good for a breakfast show ... since then, we've remained really good mates. "We had a conversation [about a podcast], and as you can expect, he was dead keen. "We've just slowly put the pieces together and got ourselves to the point of having our first episode coming out [tomorrow]." It's new territory for both of them, particularly given they're recording from separate studios, Ferguson based in Queenstown and Stewart at his Pisa Moorings pad, and beaming in their guests. They're indebted to SB Technologies, a former Queenstown company now based in Dunedin, and their "very young producer", Charlotte. "We'll explain more about her as time marches on, but she's done an amazing job taking us old geriatrics into the modern technology world ... and she's got a role to play in each episode as well." Ferguson says their content will be king, with an overall aim of supporting the wider Central Otago communities, "in a modern world podcast". General feedback's inspired the direction of the podcast — "no clickbait", and positive stories. And while he reckons it'll take a little bit for the pair to get into their groove, just like The Odd Couple, they'll build as they go. "Who knows where it'll lead — it might be a fizzer," he quips. Or, it could be award-winning, though, as a promo on the website states, "we've won no awards". Ferguson's expecting to drop a new episode every week — people can stay informed via the Facebook page 'Rated FnG' or the Instagram page @rated-fng. The free podcast's available to listen to via Introducing The Yack Shack Two of Queenstown's verbal virtuosos are about to teach their tricks of the trade. Mic magician Craig 'Ferg' Ferguson, a longtime local broadcaster and Queenstown councillor, and chatter champion Brendan 'Quilly' Quill, a Colliers realtor and auctioneer, have spent years fronting various events all across the country. They're now combining forces for 'The Yack Shack', a six-week course designed to boost confidence in public speaking. Starting July 24, at Te Atamira, the course promises to help participants find their flow and learn how to run the show. Ferguson says the idea was sparked by a work colleague, who lacked confidence in public speaking. "I knew this one [to work with me] had to be Quilly. "We just feel we've got a lot to offer in making people feel comfortable about public speaking, and that can range from kids to school teachers, to real estate agents, to corporates, to people who want to stand up at their friend's wedding. "Yes, we do a lot together, but we attack our roles differently ... so it's sharing and trying to encourage people to have confidence." The total cost is $330, plus booking fee — to find out more, or book, see
Khaleej Times
09-07-2025
- Khaleej Times
HMD amped buds: World's first earbuds that also charge your phone
In a region where tech-savvy lifestyles demand seamless mobility, Human Mobile Devices (HMD) is redefining what an audio accessory can do. HMD introduces the Amped Buds — the first-ever earbuds globally with a magnetic 1600mAh reverse wireless charging case, delivering a smartphone power boost while offering high-fidelity sound. Whether you're powering through a workday in Riyadh, commuting across Dubai's fast-paced cityscape, or staying connected on the move in Doha, HMD Amped Buds are built for the rhythm of everyday life in the region. 'At HMD, our focus is building technology that solves real-life problems. In the Middle East, where people are always on the move, battery anxiety is real — and sound quality matters just as much. The HMD Amped Buds combine both beautifully,' said Sanmeet Singh Kochhar, SVP of HMD Global – Europe, Asia, Middle East and Africa. 'We're excited to introduce a solution that meets the needs of today's users — combining practical innovation with everyday usability.' --- Power Meets Portability The Amped Buds' ultra-slim case (just 14mm thin and 80g light) boasts a high-capacity 1600mAh battery, roughly 300% larger than most competing wireless buds, able to give your iPhone® 16 Pro up to 20% more battery wirelessly³. Plug it in, and it jumps to 24%. And yes it works seamlessly with the HMD Skyline, HMD's flagship phone built with sustainability and design in mind. Available in Black, Cyan, and Pink, the buds are styled to match your personality, and with splash resistance, the IPX4-rated case and IP54 earbuds ensure they're ready for your workouts, desert treks, or surprise sandstorms. Serious Sound for Serious Listening With precision-tuned 10mm drivers, hybrid ANC + ENC, and a triple-microphone array, HMD Amped Buds deliver immersive, crystal-clear audio — whether you're in a meeting or deep into your playlist. ● Up to 8 hours of battery life per earbud (ANC off), and up to 95 hours² total playback with the charging case ● Dynamic bass enhancement amplifies low frequencies for a full, balanced soundscape ● Customisable Equaliser (EQ) via the Amped Buds app on Android™ and iOS® Android users also benefit from Google Fast Pair for seamless connectivity. With multipoint pairing, Amped Buds can connect to two devices simultaneously — perfect for switching between your phone and laptop. The HMD Amped Buds will be available in the UAE, KSA, Qatar, and other GCC markets starting July 2025, priced at AED/SAR/QAR 599. Local retailers and online platforms will carry the buds in all three colour options.
NZ Herald
01-07-2025
- Business
- NZ Herald
Skyline Enterprises hits new heights as pre-tax profit doubles to $61m
Gondola and luge operator Skyline Enterprises has doubled its pre-tax profit off the back of a strong tourism rebound in Queenstown. However, it has had to take impairments on its Christchurch Casino business and one of its South Korean luge sites after lighter-than-expected trading conditions. Skyline's total global revenue rose
CTV News
26-06-2025
- Business
- CTV News
City of Barrie showcases Canadian pride in massive way
A 150-foot tall flagpole with a flag, measuring 35 feet by 70 feet, flies at the Barrie-Simcoe Emergency Services Campus on Fairview Road in Barrie, Ont. The City of Barrie has put its national pride on display in a big way, with the unveiling of a massive Canadian flag, just in time for Canada Day. The flag, measuring 35 feet by 70 feet, flies atop a 150-foot-tall flagpole, and is located at the Barrie-Simcoe Emergency Services Campus on Fairview Road in the city's south end. Mayor Alex Nuttall attended Thursday's unveiling and highlighted the importance of the new installation. 'This flag isn't just a new landmark, it's a symbol of the pride we feel for our city, our province, and our country,' he said. Local developer Skyline provided the financial support for the project. 'We're honoured to have contributed to bringing this project to life,' noted Jason Castellan, Skyline co-founder and CEO. Barrie Canadian Flag A 150-foot tall flagpole with a flag, measuring 35 feet by 70 feet, flies at the Barrie-Simcoe Emergency Services Campus on Fairview Road in Barrie, Ont. The mayor also touched on the flag's symbolism amid tensions between Canada and the United States. 'As conversations about national identity have taken place beyond our borders, this flag is a reminder of who we are, and the values that bring us together,' Nuttall added. The towering flagpole and its gigantic flag is strategically placed to be visible from various locations throughout the city and Highway 400, the mayor emphasized. 'This Canada Day, our patriotic pride will be highlighted for both residents and folks just passing through on their way to the cottage.'
