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The Beatles Announce Limited Edition Beatles Collectibles with Precious Sound

Eric Alper
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The Beatles Announce Limited Edition Beatles Collectibles with Precious Sound

Sixty years ago, the question on every music lover’s lips was: ‘Did you get to see the Beatles’? The Beatles had crossed America on a 25-venue tour that would change the face of modern music. Beatlemania was unleashed across the US in 1964, taking the Liverpudlian band to a whole new level of fame. The rest is history.

Now Beatles fans can own a part of that history, thanks to a new collection of commemorative tickets, released to mark the anniversary year. The 25-ticket set—one for each venue across the US and Canada—marks the anniversary of the month-long tour, with every ticket made from one ounce of pure silver.

Each intricately crafted ticket, three inches long and two inches wide, displays the date, venue, and price of each show, with unique detailing for every gig. The Cleveland, Ohio ticket features the grinning faces of the Fab Four, as does the Indianapolis entrance stub. The Hollywood Bowl ticket is an eye-catching purple; the Las Vegas one shows a vivid yellow. All of them are made of one ounce of pure .999 silver.

The tickets come in a celebratory book, with a certificate of authenticity. And though they may be issued 60 years too late for the gigs themselves, they are in fact legal tender— setting a new standard for collectibles.

The tickets have been produced by Swiss-based Precious Sound, creator of luxury music collectibles, and B.H. Mayer, a 150-year-old family-owned mint in Germany under license from Apple Corps Ltd, in a deal brokered by Bravado International, the Beatles North American licensing agent.

Joe Marziotto, vice president of licensing and merchandising at Bravado, said the tickets were “a brilliant way to pay homage to one of the most significant moments in music history.” He added: “This silver series is the perfect way to celebrate the Beatles’ monumental impact on music and culture. Fans everywhere will be ecstatic to have a tangible piece of that history that we can treasure forever.”

The first silver ticket will be released on February 7th—the day the Beatles touched down in the USA. The remaining 24 tickets in this incredible silver series will be released throughout 2025, allowing collectors to complete their set as they celebrate each historic concert.

Each concert ticket in this series will have a limited run of 1,964 units worldwide, and will be available for pre-sale through the Precious Sound website, the official Beatles website, and select retail partners.

“We’re anticipating huge enthusiasm from fans and collectors alike for this limited-edition collection,” said Mark Sutton, co-founder of Precious Sound. “The Beatles’ first U.S. tour marked a pivotal point in music fandom, and this silver series is a fantastic tribute that fans will be eager to celebrate.”

Alex Wenger, CEO at B.H. Mayer, said they hoped the “precision and detail involved in recreating these concert tickets will reflect the passion and artistry” of the band. “We’re honored to bring our craftsmanship to a project of this magnitude,” he said.

And once more the question for Beatles fans is: have you got your tickets?

Celebrating a Decade of Amplifying Canadian Voices at Spotify

Eric Alper
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Celebrating a Decade of Amplifying Canadian Voices at Spotify

Since landing in Canada in 2014, Spotify has been the ultimate stage for Canadian artists, creators, and listeners. Yesterday, Spotify threw a party at its Toronto HQ to celebrate 10 years of connecting Canadians with the world through audio magic. It was a day filled with live music from Québec’s own Claudia Bouvette and country star Cameron Whitcomb, plus an intimate chat with author Uzma Jalaluddin for Spotify’s “Audiobook Club.” The event showcased what Spotify has always been about: putting Canada’s rich cultural diversity on the global map.

And the numbers don’t lie. Over the last decade, Canadian artists have been streaming royalty. With 20 Canadian acts racking up over a billion streams across 66 tracks, icons like Drake and The Weeknd have been dominating playlists worldwide. In fact, The Weeknd’s Blinding Lights is the most-streamed song of the decade globally with over 4 billion streams. Add Tate McRae, Patrick Watson, and Les Cowboys Fringants to the mix, and you’ve got a powerhouse of talent fueled by Spotify’s tools, like AI DJ and editorial playlists, that help artists connect with fans in ways that were unimaginable a decade ago.

Spotify isn’t just about music. This year, Canada became one of the first markets to roll out audiobooks on Spotify Premium, sparking a 2,461% increase in French-language audiobook listening in Québec. Playlists like Du Québec and Rap québ are drawing in audiences from around the globe, with Patrick Watson’s Je te laisserai des mots claiming the title of most-streamed Francophone track worldwide in 2023 and 2024.

The success doesn’t stop there. Spotify Canada’s ‘Global Impact List’ highlights hits like Tate McRae’s greedy and Ruth B.’s Dandelions, alongside The Weeknd’s chart-toppers, cementing Canada as the third-largest music exporter in the world. Canadian artists were discovered by new listeners over 3.8 billion times in 2023 alone, generating $400 million in royalties from streams outside Canada.

Spotify has redefined what it means to support Canadian music. With listeners spinning over 600,000 distinct Canadian tracks weekly—83 times more than Canadian radio—it’s clear Spotify is where Canadian talent shines. As Spotify looks to the future, it’s building a thriving audio ecosystem that amplifies Canadian voices across the globe. Here’s to the next decade of groundbreaking music and culture.

An overview of popular boiler brands: features, repair and disadvantages

Eric Alper
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By Mitch Rice

A boiler is integral to modern life, providing hot water in apartments and houses. Many brands are on the market, each offering solutions for water heating. This article will look at popular manufacturers, their features, repair difficulties, and the main disadvantages that may affect the user’s choice.

Ariston

Ariston is an Italian brand that has long established itself as a reliable and energy-efficient boiler manufacturer. This company’s main advantage is its use of innovative technologies to reduce energy consumption. Ariston models are often equipped with the ECO EVO function, which optimizes electricity consumption depending on the water usage schedule. The manufacturer also offers models with a tank protected from corrosion by a special coating and a magnesium anode.

The disadvantage of these boilers is their tendency to scale, especially in water with high hardness, which can reduce the service life of the heating element. However, this disadvantage is offset by the ease of replacing spare parts – they are available in most stores.

Due to the standard design, Ariston repairs are relatively easy. Common problems include replacing the heating element, anode, or safety valve.

Superior plumbing and heating specializes in boiler repair Toronto of all brands: https://superiorplumbing.ca/toronto/boiler-repair/  It offers professional cleaning, diagnostics, and spare parts replacement services using only high-quality materials. Thanks to a team of experienced craftsmen, customers receive fast and reliable repairs with a warranty of up to 12 months. The company operates in Kyiv and the region, ensuring that the technician arrives at a time convenient for the customer.

Gorenje

Gorenje is a Slovenian brand that offers premium water heating solutions. Their boilers are known for their durability, high build quality and design. The tanks of Gorenje models are usually enamelled or stainless steel, which minimizes the risk of corrosion. The design also uses a multi-level protection system that prevents overheating and water leaks.

Although Gorenje offers high-quality models, their cost is significantly higher than average, and repairs can be problematic in some regions due to the limited availability of spare parts. Electronic control systems require plumber Toronto diagnostics in the event of a breakdown, which increases maintenance costs.

Bosch

The German brand Bosch is synonymous with technology and reliability. High energy efficiency and modern features such as intelligent control and precise temperature control characterize their boilers. Bosch also offers models that comply with the A+ energy efficiency class, which allows you to save energy.

The main difficulty with Bosch boilers is the high cost of repair, especially for models with advanced electronics. For example, a controller or temperature sensor breakdown may require expensive spare parts. However, the strength of the materials and the well-thought-out design make these water heaters less prone to frequent breakdowns, but in the future you will need to have boiler repair Toronto, by using any brands of boiler. 

Electrolux

The Swedish brand Electrolux offers a wide range of boilers that combine stylish design and functionality. Their compact models are especially popular, as they can easily fit into small spaces. They are equipped with modern safety systems, such as automatic shutdown in case of overheating or water leakage.

The main problem with Electrolux is its sensitivity to operating conditions. For example, the scale can significantly affect the performance of the heating element, which requires regular maintenance. Also, repairs can be difficult due to the need for specific parts, especially in digitally controlled models.

Atlantic

Atlantic is a French brand specializing in budget and mid-priced boiler models. These devices’ main advantages are their affordability and ease of use. The tanks are covered with anti-corrosion protection, which increases their service life.

The disadvantage of Atlantic boilers is budget models’ relatively low heating power. This means the time it takes to heat water can be longer than that of premium brands. Also, the magnesium anode must be replaced regularly, which adds to maintenance costs.

Repairing Atlantic is considered easy thanks to standard design solutions and available spare parts.

Zanussi

Zanussi is a brand that attracts consumers with a favourable price-quality ratio. Their boilers are characterized by simple mechanical or electronic controls that are easy to master, even for an inexperienced user.

The main disadvantage of Zanussi is the tank’s average durability—models made of cheaper materials may experience corrosion problems. Some users also note that budget models may have insufficient thermal insulation, which leads to faster water cooling.

Repairing Zanussi is generally easy. It would help if you often replaced the heating element or thermostat, which is a standard procedure.

Conclusions

Each brand has its strengths and weaknesses that determine its popularity among users.

  • If manufacturability and energy efficiency are important to you, choose Bosch or Gorenje.
  • For an economical option with basic functions, Atlantic or Zanussi are suitable.
  • Ariston is an ideal option for those looking to balance quality and price.
  • Electrolux is suitable for those who want a stylish and compact device.

Regular maintenance and high-quality water are the key to the long service life of any boiler without boiler repair. .

Data and information are provided for informational purposes only, and are not intended for investment or other purposes.

evian and Pharrell Williams Unveil Limited-Edition “Fountain of Youth” Bottles

Eric Alper
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evian and Pharrell Williams Unveil Limited-Edition “Fountain of Youth” Bottles

Today, evian natural spring water, in collaboration with Pharrell Williams and his design, innovation, and lifestyle product company, Humanrace, is unveiling two limited-edition glass evian bottles. Designed by Pharrell, the bottles embody a shared commitment to a healthy, hydrated lifestyle, encouraging individuals to prioritize their wellbeing with evian premium, natural spring water.

These limited-edition bottles, available in blue and green in both still and sparkling options, mark the second installment of the broader collaboration between evian and Pharrell Williams and Humanrace, following the launch of a tennis-inspired capsule collection tied to New York’s major tennis tournament earlier this year. The release ushers in an exciting new chapter in evian brand’s 15-year history of iconic luxury designer partnerships and is the first time the brand has offered both still and sparkling water in glass bottles – spotlighting the importance of water as part of the dining ritual.

Inspired by the evian Mountain of Youth campaign, which launched earlier this year, each bottle features the inscription, “This is the Fountain of Youth,” symbolizing the shared belief between Pharrell and evian that wellness begins with hydration. The sleek, colorful design reflects the playful, youthful spirit of evian and aligns seamlessly with Humanrace’s vision of being well.

Pharrell Williams, renowned for his timeless appearance, reveals his secret: “Staying hydrated is fundamental. These bottles represent more than just water—they’re a reminder that self-care can be joyful. My collaboration with evian and Humanrace will hopefully inspire people to embrace the small moments that contribute to our overall well-being. The ‘Fountain of Youth’ phrase on the bottle is designed to start conversations at the dinner table and reminds us of the fundamental role water plays in our wellness.”

“We are excited to continue our collaboration with Pharrell and Humanrace through these limited-edition bottles, which celebrate the intersection of wellness, creativity, and community—values that are central to both evian and Pharrell,” said Leeni Hämäläinen, Marketing Director, Waters (evian) at Danone. “We pride ourselves on partnering with cutting-edge collaborators, and Pharrell is the perfect creative partner to bring our shared vision to life. He embodies evian ‘Live Young’ ethos, and we hope this partnership encourages people to embrace their own youthful spirit.”

The limited-edition evian x Humanrace glass bottles will be available at select retailers and restaurants across the U.S. starting in December, featuring both still and sparkling options. For more information on availability, visit online retailer Aqua Maestro, the evian website.

evian natural spring water comes from the heart of the French Alps, a unique geological site in the world. For more than 15 years, it travels through the rocks, where it picks up minerals. The brand has been working for over 25 years to preserve natural surroundings of the source, in an effort to preserve evian natural spring water’s exceptional quality for generations to come. Natural and uniquely balanced, evian natural spring water is a healthy choice for hydration throughout the day.

evian, a Danone brand, embraces the company’s One Planet. One Health vision that the health of the people and the health of the planet are interconnected and therefore seeks to protect and nourish both.

For more information on evian and the planet, please visit: https://www.evian.com/en_us/planet

Pharrell Williams is a visionary recording artist, producer, songwriter, philanthropist, entrepreneur and Creative Director for Louis Vuitton menswear with 10B combined global music streams to date. He has been honored with 13 Grammy Awards, including 2004, 2014, and 2019 Producer of the Year, and ASCAP’s Golden Note Award in 2012. He has received two Academy Award nominations for his original song “Happy” (Despicable Me 2) and for Best Picture-nominated Hidden Figures (2016) as Producer. Williams also received a Golden Globe Nomination for co-scoring the film. In 2019, Williams received an Emmy-nomination for his original song “Letter to My Godfather,” for Netflix’s Black Godfather about legendary music executive Clarence Avant. In 2020, Williams was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame for his work as The Neptunes.

In 2018, Pharrell narrated Universal’s remake of the classic film The Grinch, authored the book A Fish Doesn’t Know It’s Wet, and released the Netflix Original series Brainchild (2018) with his producing partner, Mimi Valdés. Other projects include Dope (2015), Roxanne Roxanne (2017), Voices of Fire (2020) and Amazon’s Harlem, which has been renewed for a third season. Pharrell recently announced his upcoming animated biopic PIECE BY PIECE from Focus Features. The film, directed by Academy Award® winning filmmaker Morgan Neville, is produced by Pharrell’s company i am OTHER and Neville’s Tremolo Productions in partnership with LEGO®. PIECE BY PIECE will debut in theaters this Fall.

Humanrace is a product company founded in 2020 by Pharrell Williams with a mission to revolutionize the concept of being well through thoughtfully crafted and innovative products that become daily routines. Their award-winning, all-gender skincare and bodycare collections are vegan, fragrance-free, cruelty-free, refillable and available at humanrace.com.

Chips Ahoy! Teams With Big Sean for Exclusive Big Chewy Cookie Merch Collaboration

Eric Alper
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Chips Ahoy! Teams With Big Sean for Exclusive Big Chewy Cookie Merch Collaboration

This collab is BIG! America’s #1 Chocolate Chip Cookie brand is combining fashion, flavor, and culture for an exclusive collaboration with GRAMMY-nominated hip hop powerhouse Big Sean at ComplexCon to celebrate its BIGGEST innovation now in stores – Chips Ahoy! Big Chewy Cookie in three delicious flavors. Over three times the size of the Chips Ahoy! Regular Chewy Cookie, this new treat not only levels up snack culture nationwide but will now make its mark in fashion with an exclusive capsule collection with Big Sean.

Featuring bold cookie-inspired styles and Big Sean’s famous Don Life mantra, the collection features pieces co-designed by Big Sean and created to stand out from the crowd. A Don Life T-shirt features the Big Chewy Cookie towering over the Earth as a nod to Chips Ahoy! Big Chewy Cookie’s immense size and Big Sean’s previous fan favorite collections, while a premium heavyweight chocolate brown sweatshirt with a large cookie design symbolizes Chips Ahoy! cookie’s beloved chocolatey chips and delicious taste. Fans enjoying their Big Chewy Cookie on-the-go can toss it in their new oversized tote bag, constructed with a perfectly sized slit to hold the Big Chewy Cookie, or their new classic, nostalgic lunchbox tin. The capsule collection will drop on November 16 at ComplexCon in Las Vegas, where tastemakers unveil the latest trends and set the cultural agenda. The event is a groundbreaking festival and exhibition, bringing together music, style, sneakers, pop culture, art, food and innovation.

At the event, fans can enter for a chance to win this exclusive drop and try the delicious Big Chewy Cookie flavors – Chocolatey Chip, Chocolatey Brownie, or Chocolatey Caramel – at the Chips Ahoy! booth, which will be impossible to miss. Towering at 18 feet tall, the massive cookie installation will give fans the opportunity to meet Big Sean and snap photos with the music artist, for a limited time on Saturday. If fans can’t make it to ComplexCon, they can enter for a chance to get their hands on the exclusive drop at stories.complex.com/chipsahoysweeps from November 12 through November 27. See abbreviated rules below for more details.

“When thinking about bringing together BIG names for our Big Chewy Cookie launch, we knew Complex and Big Sean would be the best partners to help us make a splash in fashion and culture, while underscoring our passion for mouth-watering innovation,” said Jen Levin, Senior Brand Manager at Chips Ahoy! “At over three times the size of the Chips Ahoy! Regular Chewy Cookie, this shareable, on-the-go choice brings happiness with each big, delicious bite. Chips Ahoy! Big Chewy Cookie is made with Gen Z Chips Ahoy! fans in mind – so, collaborating with Big Sean at ComplexCon is the perfect way to share the product and exclusive merch collection with them.”

Big Sean shared why this Chips Ahoy! and Complex collaboration is close to his heart and urges fans to join him for the event, saying, “My new merch collaboration with Chips Ahoy! at ComplexCon is about bringing big flavor and bold style together.  Debuting the collection for a brand I’ve loved for years at an event where culture and creativity collide, is particularly special. See ya’ll in Vegas!”

ComplexCon is a groundbreaking festival and exhibition that brings together music, style, sneakers, pop culture, art, food and innovation. A weekend where creative minds converge to celebrate the latest trends and ideas shaping our culture, the festival features immersive experiences, exclusive releases from the most influential brands, thought-provoking panel discussions and headlining performances from Travis Scott & Cactus Jack, Playboi Carti & Opium, Metro Boomin and many more. This year, Travis Scott will act as the curator of the event, bringing “CactusCon” to Las Vegas. We invite you to join our community and experience the future of pop culture this November 16-17 in Las Vegas.A 7x BET Award-winning and GRAMMY®-nominated superstar, Big Sean is an uncompromising force in hip hop and culture at the top of his game. Since unleashing his 2011 PLATINUM-certified debut album Finally Famous on Kanye West’s G.O.O.D. Music/Def Jam imprint, Sean has sold more than 50 million records and continues to elevate with no signs of slowing. On August 30, he released his critically acclaimed sixth studio album Better Me Than You (Def Jam Recordings) which includes hit singles “Superstar,” “Together Forever” feat. The Alchemist, “On Up,” “Yes,” and “Precision.” A true multi-hyphenate, Sean is also gearing up to release his first book “Go Higher” (Simon and Schuster) on January 21 that serves as a spiritual guidebook for our times and outlines his five key practices for inner work and self-acceptance. In addition to his 2011 debut album, Sean’s musical catalog also comprises PLATINUM-certified albums Detroit 2 (2020), I Decided. (2017) and Dark Sky Paradise (2015) which all debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200, as well as GOLD-certified album Hall Of Fame (2013). His track records boasts an impressive 21 MULTI PLATINUM, PLATINUM AND GOLD-certified hit singles including the 9x-PLATINUM No. 1 hit “IDFWU” feat. E-40, the 6x-PLATINUM “Bounce Back,” 5x-PLATINUM “Dance (A$$)” feat. Nicki Minaj, 4x-PLATINUM “Beware” feat. Lil Wayne and Jhené Aiko, as well as the No. 1 “Marvin Gaye & Chardonnay” feat. Kanye West and Roscoe Dash, and the GRAMMY-nominated “Mercy” feat. Pusha T and 2 Chainz with which he shared multi-platinum success with Kanye. Attracting an audience of 50 million across social channels, Sean leverages his platform to give back as he runs the Sean Anderson Foundation, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization which assists in the education, health, safety and well-being of school aged youth in underserved communities across the country. For more information, please visit www.uknowbigsean.com.

 

Generative AI Market to Grow by USD 97.75 Billion (2024-2028), Driven by Rising Demand for AI-Generated Content

Eric Alper
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Generative AI Market to Grow by USD 97.75 Billion (2024-2028), Driven by Rising Demand for AI-Generated Content

The global generative artificial intelligence (AI) market size is estimated to grow by USD 97.75 billion from 2024-2028, according to Technavio. The market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 50.22% during the forecast period. Increasing demand for ai-generated content is driving market growth, with a trend towards acceleration in deployment of large language models (LLM). However, lack of quality data poses a challenge.Key market players include Accenture Plc, Adobe Inc., Alphabet Inc., Altair Engineering Inc., Amazon.com Inc., Autodesk Inc., DataRobot Inc., De Identification Ltd., Diabatix NV, Genie AI Ltd., Hexagon AB, International Business Machines Corp., LeewayHertz, Microsoft Corp., MOSTLY AI Solutions MP GmbH, nTopology Inc., NVIDIA Corp., OpenAI L.L.C., Rephrase Technologies Pvt. Ltd., and Synthesia Ltd..

The Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) market is experiencing significant growth as businesses adopt AI technologies to drive solutions in various industries. Natural Language Processing (NLP) and Computer Vision are leading trends, with Generative AI gaining popularity through advancements like Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs), Transformer models, and Multimodal data processing. AI is revolutionizing Entertainment with text and image generation, summarization, and personalized content. In Healthcare, AI is transforming document generation, model architectures, and unsupervised learning techniques for text and image analysis. Entertainment, Finance, and Education industries are leveraging AI-driven solutions for content creation and customer support through conversational interfaces, intelligent virtual assistants, and conversational chatbots. Advanced algorithms like deep learning, probabilistic modeling, and iterative training techniques are powering AI applications in Robotics and Automation, Augmented Reality, and Virtual Reality. However, challenges such as model drift, inaccurate content, biased content, and inappropriate content require continuous monitoring and mitigation strategies. Data security concerns, particularly with unstructured data and personally identifiable information, necessitate tagging, encryption, and access control measures. AI ethics, machine learning techniques, and computer resources are essential considerations for businesses adopting AI. AI tools and conversational interfaces are enabling IT professionals to create virtual worlds, simulations, and game environments for various applications. In conclusion, the Generative AI market offers immense potential for businesses to innovate and create value across industries. However, it’s crucial to address challenges and ethical considerations to ensure the responsible and effective implementation of AI technologies.

The generative AI market has experienced notable growth with the implementation of Language Model Machines (LLMs). These models employ deep learning methods to generate text that resembles human speech. Businesses can utilize these models to automate and enhance tasks such as customer service, content creation, and data analysis. For instance, Open AI’s GPT-3 language model has gained widespread recognition. It produces human-like text, making it an effective tool for companies to automate content generation, including product descriptions, news articles, and social media posts.

The Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) market is experiencing significant growth as businesses seek to leverage AI technologies for various applications. Natural Language Processing (NLP) and Computer Vision are two key areas where Generative AI, including Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs), Transformer models, and Variational Autoencoders, are making a mark. These AI-driven solutions offer text generation capabilities, summarization, personalized content, document generation, and model architectures for text, images, video, audio, and more. Entertainment and healthcare industries are major adopters, with Generative AI used for content creation, media and entertainment, and AI-driven simulations. Advanced algorithms like deep learning, neural networks, and probabilistic modeling are at the core of these applications. However, challenges persist, including model drift, inaccurate or biased content, and inappropriate content. Synthetic data management and AI ethics are crucial to address these issues. AI accelerators, computing vouchers, and IT professionals are essential to overcome the computational demands of Generative AI. Data security concerns, especially with unstructured data and personally identifiable information, tagging and encryption methods. The future of Generative AI lies in its ability to create human-like text, power intelligent infrastructure, and provide personalized support through conversational AI and chatbots.

Generative artificial intelligence (AI) can produce data for various applications, such as news articles or product descriptions. However, the quality of the generated data can be inconsistent and may not meet expectations. Inaccurate or incomplete information can be disseminated to the public through AI-generated news articles, potentially misleading readers and damaging the credibility of the news outlet. Similarly, poor-quality data used to generate product descriptions on e-commerce websites could deter potential customers from making a purchase due to misleading or confusing information. It is essential to ensure the data used to train generative AI models is of high quality to produce accurate and reliable results.

The generative artificial intelligence (AI) market is experiencing significant growth due to the increasing demand for software that can analyze data and produce unique outputs. One notable example is GPT-4, a deep learning-based text generator capable of creating text indistinguishable from human-written content. Businesses are utilizing this technology for content creation and customer service automation. Another application is StyleGAN, a machine learning software generating realistic human faces, benefiting the fashion and beauty industry. Several startups, like Runway, develop generative AI platforms for designers and artists. These advancements are expected to boost the market’s expansion during the forecast period.

The Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) market is experiencing exponential growth due to the increasing adoption of AI technologies in various industries. Natural Language Processing (NLP) and Computer Vision are two major areas of AI that are revolutionizing how we interact with text and images. Generative AI, a subset of advanced algorithms, is leading the charge with its ability to create new content, from text to art and even music. Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs) are a popular generative AI technique that uses two neural networks to generate realistic data. Digitization and AI-driven solutions are transforming industries such as Entertainment and Healthcare, with generative AI powering personalized content and predictive analytics. Standard AI systems use machine learning, simulations, and videos to learn patterns and make decisions. Neural networks, deep learning, probabilistic modeling, and iterative training techniques are essential components of these systems. Recurrent neural networks and convolutional neural networks are advanced algorithms that enable AI to understand context and recognize patterns in data. GPT series and other generative models are creating new possibilities in text generation, while AI applications in virtual worlds and the metaverse are pushing the boundaries of creativity and innovation. IT professionals are in high demand as businesses seek to leverage these advanced technologies to gain a competitive edge.

The Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) market is experiencing exponential growth, driven by advancements in AI technologies such as Natural Language Processing (NLP), Computer Vision, and Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs). These technologies enable AI-driven solutions to create and process multimodal data, including text, images, video, audio, and more. Generative AI is revolutionizing industries like Entertainment, Healthcare, and Robotics and Automation, with applications ranging from text generation and summarization to personalized content and document generation. Model architectures like Transformer models, Neuro-symbolic approaches, and Unsupervised learning techniques are pushing the boundaries of what AI can do. However, challenges such as model drift, inaccurate content, biased content, and inappropriate content require ongoing attention. AI accelerators, large language models, and training data preparation are essential components of the generative AI ecosystem. The market also includes various AI applications, standard and advanced algorithms, machine learning techniques, and neural networks like Recurrent Neural Networks (RNNs) and Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs). The Entertainment industry, Finance industry, Education industry, and others are leveraging generative AI for content creation, simulations, and conversational interfaces. Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) are also significant areas of application, with potential use cases in VR games, VR training simulations, and game environments. AI ethics and data security concerns are critical considerations as the market continues to evolve.

Anghami Delivers Strong Growth Across Video and Music Service in 2024 with 28% growth in streaming engagement

Eric Alper
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Anghami Delivers Strong Growth Across Video and Music Service in 2024 with 28% growth in streaming engagement

Anghami, the leading multi-media streaming platform in the MENA region, announced substantial growth in user engagement and significant operational achievements, reinforcing its position as the region’s premier entertainment destination.

Anghami has achieved significant cost synergies, while simultaneously driving an 18% increase in Average Revenue Per User (ARPU) on the direct base. Video streaming engagement has shown exceptional momentum, with total hours watched surging by 28% during January-September 2024 compared to the same period in 2023.

Elie Habib, CEO of Anghami & OSN+, commented, “Our strong performance this quarter, marked by an 18% ARPU increase on direct subscribers and 28% growth in streaming engagement, showcases the success of our integrated entertainment strategy. Through premium content expansion across both video and music, as well as technical innovation like DolbyVision and DolbyAtmos, we’re elevating how the MENA region experiences digital entertainment.”

Strategic Initiatives Driving Growth

OSN+ growth strategy encompasses several key initiatives:

Technical Innovation and Enhanced User Experience

  • Implementation of sophisticated improvements in the AI recommendation engine, particularly for new users, resulting in a 20% engagement increase.
  • Leading the region’s streaming technology with the introduction of DolbyVision and DolbyAtmos, as the first local service to offer these premium viewing experiences.
  • Launch of a pioneering Apple Vision Pro application in collaboration with Apple coinciding with the UAE release.
  • Expansion of 4K premium payment options through major regional telcos including STC KSA, Mobily KSA, DU UAE, and Etisalat UAE.

Game-Changing Value Tier Launch: Revolutionizing content accessibility with our new Standard with Ads package, unlocking premium entertainment for a broader audience while maintaining our signature high-quality streaming experience. This strategic move opens new revenue streams while democratizing access to our extensive content library.

Content Excellence and Future Programming

Strong performance from premium content including “The Penguin” starring Colin Farrell and “FROM” Season 4 have paved the way for an exciting upcoming slate:

  • “The Day of the Jackal” starring Eddie Redmayne, premiering November 15, is a high-stakes thriller that weaves suspense and precision into a riveting story of espionage and assassination.
  • “Dune: Prophecy” series, launching November 18, delivers a grand, immersive journey into the Dune universe, filled with epic landscapes, intricate political intrigue, and deep-rooted prophecy.
  • “The Fashionista” series, launching in early 2025, OSN+’s first original drama-comedy mini-series, shot in Kuwait and explores social media fame.

Arabic Content Innovation

In a groundbreaking move for regional entertainment, OSN+ introduces first-ever Arabic dubbing of prestigious series:

  • “Succession” starring Brian Cox is a gripping portrayal of a power-hungry family with razor-sharp wit and intense, ruthless dynamics.
  • “Big Little Lies” starring Nicole Kidman, Reese Witherspoon, and Shailene Woodley explores a scandalous web of secrets, delivered with layered suspense and raw emotional depth.
  • “The Undoing” starring Nicole Kidman and Hugh Grant is a sophisticated, polished thriller that keeps viewers on edge with its tense and unpredictable story.
  • “The Night Of” starring John Turturro offers a gritty, haunting look into the criminal justice system, blending atmosphere and thought-provoking drama.

Music and Cultural Leadership

On the music front, Anghami continues to strengthen its music and cultural offerings:

  • Extension of Amr Diab’s music catalog, with three major concerts scheduled by April 2025 in Cairo, Amman and Abu Dhabi.
  • Collaboration with Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Culture for the Cultural Talent Tournament between January and July 2024 supporting the Kingdom’s vision in discovering and developing musical talents.
  • Launch of “Sajjel,” the Arab world’s first podcast competition, in partnership with the Literature, Publishing and Translation Commission.

Anghami is the leading multi-media technology streaming platform in the Middle East and North Africa (“MENA”) region, offering a comprehensive ecosystem of exclusive premium video, music, podcasts, live entertainment, audio services, and more. Since its launch in 2012, Anghami has led the way as the first music streaming platform to digitize MENA’s music catalog, reshaping the region’s entertainment landscape. In a strategic move in April 2024, Anghami joined forces with OSN+, a leading video streaming platform, forming a digital entertainment powerhouse. This pivotal transaction strengthened Anghami’s position as a go-to destination, boasting an extensive library of over 18,000 hours of premium video, including exclusive HBO content, alongside 100+ million Arabic and International songs and podcasts. With a user base exceeding 120 million registered users and 2.5 million paid subscribers, Anghami has partnered with 47 telcos across MENA, facilitating customer acquisition and subscription payment, in addition to establishing relationships with major film studios, entertainment giants, and music labels, both regional and international. Headquartered in Abu Dhabi, UAE, Anghami operates in 16 countries across MENA, with offices in Beirut, Dubai, Cairo, and Riyadh.

The Beatles Announce A Limited Edition Silver Collectible Yellow Submarine with Precious Sound

Eric Alper
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The Beatles Announce A Limited Edition Silver Collectible Yellow Submarine with Precious Sound

The sky is blue, and the sea is green—but do you have your yellow submarine?

That’s the question for Beatles fans worldwide, with the release of a limited edition solid silver sub. Weighing one ounce, the intricate collectible with its instantly recognizable design is a must-have for Beatles aficionados. The collectible celebrates the magic of the 1968 film, which was lovingly restored, frame by frame, in 2018—bringing the otherworldly underwater adventure to a new generation.

Precious Sound worked with B.H. Mayer’s Kunstprägeanstalt, a 150-year-old Munich-based mint. The deal was brokered by Bravado International, The Beatles North American licensing agent. The trio hope the collectible will fascinate a new flock of Beatles fans, and bring back fond memories for those already captivated by the charming and witty tale.

Each Yellow Submarine piece in the initial release is also legal tender with only 4,000 collectibles will be made, making the one-ounce .999 pure silver memento something to treasure for the ages. Additional Yellow Submarine silver collectibles will follow in 2025, including a special set honoring each of the band members.

Joe Marziotto, vice president of licensing for Bravado, said the sub sale was a unique opportunity for Beatles fans. “The Yellow Submarine film has left an indelible mark on pop culture,” he said. “This collectible captures that magic and offers fans a tangible piece of that legacy.”

Mark Sutton, co-founder and creative director at Precious Sound, said it was “a fitting tribute to an iconic film,” while Alex Wenger, CEO of B.H. Mayer, said his company was excited about the new offering. “It is an honor to bring our expertise in minting to this project,” he said. “The intricacy and detail of the Yellow Submarine collectible reflect the creativity that the Beatles brought to their music and storytelling.”

The collectible will be available for pre-sale starting mid-December, making it an exciting opportunity for collectors to secure this exclusive item ahead of the holiday season. It be available for pre-sale through the Precious Sound website, the official Beatles website, and select retail partners.

Code.org and Amazon Launch Music Lab: Jam Session, Introduce New Tracks from Chart-Topping Artists

Eric Alper
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Code.org and Amazon Launch Music Lab: Jam Session, Introduce New Tracks from Chart-Topping Artists

Continuing their long-standing educational partnership, Code.org and Amazon today announced the latest Hour of Code activity, Music Lab: Jam Session. The new activity, built on the Music Lab platform launched earlier this year, allows students to learn core computer science concepts like sequencing, loops, and functions through music composition and introduces a new feature for creating custom beats with AI based on students’ creative input.

Code.org designed Music Lab: Jam Session to show students that coding is not just about logic and algorithms – it’s about creativity. The new lesson connects the problem-solving process coders use to the creative process musicians follow. Students can also explore career paths specifically in music and technology with the Amazon Music Career Tour.

“Since its launch, Music Lab has supported students’ interest in and passion for learning computer science and we are thrilled to bring the platform to Hour of Code with Music Lab: Jam Session,” said Hadi Partovi, CEO and co-founder of Code.org. “The new activity encourages students to see that computer science and creativity go hand in hand, blending coding and AI skills with artistic expression to make learning exciting, engaging, and accessible.”

The Music Lab platform features an impressive catalog of tracks from top artists, including Lady Gaga, The Chainsmokers, Coldplay, Tinashe, Rosa Linn, Aloe Blacc, and more. Code.org is thrilled to introduce additional tracks from renowned artists Shakira, Sabrina Carpenter, and Benson Boone. Shakira’s top hits “Whenever, Wherever” and “Hips Don’t Lie” are among the newly available songs, offering students an even broader array of creative options as they learn to code.

Shakira, an Amazon partner and advocate for Code.org, shared: “I am proud to continue my work with Code.org and Amazon to expand access for students around the world to computer science education. Music Lab shows students that coding and creativity are connected and I am thrilled to support a platform that makes learning fun and meaningful for students.”

Music Lab: Jam Session lands ahead of Hour of Code 2024, which will take place from December 9-15 alongside the annual Computer Science Education Week. This year’s Hour of Code theme, “Make the Invisible Visible,” celebrates students’ creativity and passion, bridging the gap between students’ interests and the technology that powers them.

Since Music Lab launched in May, the platform has generated over 4 million project starts from users around the world. To explore the capabilities of Music Lab and learn more about the interactive student projects, artist videos, and resources available for educators, visit code.org/music. For more information about how to participate in this year’s Hour of Code, visit www.hourofcode.com/us.

5 Surprising Facts About The Beatles’ ‘Rubber Soul’

Eric Alper
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5 Surprising Facts About The Beatles’ ‘Rubber Soul’

When you think of Rubber Soul, the iconic sixth studio album (in just two years!) from The Beatles, you likely envision its groundbreaking blend of folk, soul, and pop. But beneath its polished veneer are hidden gems of trivia and fascinating tidbits that shaped this masterpiece. Here are five little-known facts about the album that changed the game for rock and roll forever.

1. The Title Was Inspired By a Compliment (and a Slight Jab)

Paul McCartney was inspired to name the album Rubber Soul after overhearing an American musician describe Mick Jagger’s singing style as “plastic soul.” McCartney turned the phrase into a cheeky nod to The Beatles’ own attempts at soul music, adding a dose of self-deprecating humor to their groundbreaking LP.

2. “Norwegian Wood” Introduced the Sitar to Rock Music

George Harrison’s use of the sitar on “Norwegian Wood (This Bird Has Flown)” marked the first time the instrument was featured prominently in a rock song. Inspired by Ravi Shankar and introduced to the instrument during the filming of Help!, Harrison’s sitar work sparked a fascination with Indian music that would deeply influence the band’s later works.

3. A Marathon Recording Schedule

The Beatles recorded Rubber Soul in just over a month, an unusually tight schedule by today’s standards. Working long nights and early mornings, they completed the album with just hours to spare before the release deadline. Despite the pressure, the sessions yielded some of their most innovative work, showcasing their growing studio prowess.

4. The Hidden Bach Influence on “In My Life”

The iconic piano solo in “In My Life” isn’t actually played in real time. Producer George Martin recorded the solo at half speed, then sped it up during playback to give it the intricate, harpsichord-like quality fans adore. Lennon had requested something “Bach-like,” and Martin delivered a timeless classical touch to the track.

5. The Album’s Cover Was a Happy Accident

The stretched effect on the album’s cover photo was a fluke. Photographer Robert Freeman was projecting the image onto cardboard when the board slipped, elongating the image. The band loved the trippy, distorted look, which perfectly matched the experimental vibe of Rubber Soul.

Rubber Soul isn’t just an album; it’s a journey that redefined what rock music could be – and again, their sixth album in just two years. Its mix of innovative sounds, deeply personal lyrics, and creative risks set the stage for the sonic revolutions of Revolver and Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or new to its wonders, revisiting Rubber Soul reveals a masterpiece that continues to inspire artists and listeners alike.

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That Eric Alper

Eric Alper is a 6-time nominee for Publicist of the Year during Canadian Music Week and has overseen the publicity campaigns for over 183 JUNO Award-nominated albums (and 16 in 2025), 45 Grammy-nominated albums, including 47 JUNO Award, 58 Canadian Folk Music Award, 126 Maple Blues Award-winning albums and is also truly honoured to work with some of the biggest and most important artists of our time.

Contact me: eric@thatericalper.com

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