Thu, 15 January, 2026

Critical AirPlay Vulnerability Exposes Billions of Apple Devices to Malware Threats

PC: Freepik
GDN Desk
Published
GDN Desk
Published : 03, May 2025, 09:55

A newly discovered security flaw in Apple's AirPlay protocol, dubbed "AirBorne," has put billions of iPhones, iPads, Macs, and AirPlay-enabled devices at risk of dangerous malware attacks. Cybersecurity researchers from Oligo Security have identified 23 vulnerabilities within the AirPlay protocol and its Software Development Kit (SDK), which could allow hackers on the same Wi-Fi network to execute malicious code, steal personal information, and even eavesdrop on conversations.

The AirBorne flaw enables attackers to exploit AirPlay-enabled devices through various methods, including:

  • Zero-Click Remote Code Execution (RCE): Hackers can compromise devices without any user interaction.

  • One-Click RCE: Requires minimal user interaction to execute malicious code.

  • Access Control List (ACL) Bypass: Allows unauthorized access to device functionalities.

  • Sensitive Information Disclosure: Exposes personal data stored on the device.

  • Man-in-the-Middle (MITM) Attacks: Intercepts communications between devices.

  • Denial of Service (DoS) Attacks: Disrupts normal device operations.

These vulnerabilities can be chained together, enabling attackers to take full control of AirPlay-enabled devices, including third-party products like smart TVs, speakers, and car infotainment systems.

Apple has released security updates addressing several of the identified vulnerabilities. However, many third-party devices that utilize the AirPlay SDK remain vulnerable, as they rely on manufacturers to provide timely patches. This lag in updates leaves a significant number of devices exposed to potential attacks.

To mitigate the risks associated with the AirBorne vulnerability, users are advised to:

  • Update Devices: Ensure all Apple devices are running the latest software updates.

  • Disable AirPlay: Turn off AirPlay when not in use, especially on public Wi-Fi networks.

  • Be Cautious on Public Networks: Avoid connecting to unsecured or public Wi-Fi networks.

  • Monitor Third-Party Devices: Check for firmware updates on AirPlay-enabled third-party devices and apply them promptly.

By taking these precautions, users can reduce the likelihood of falling victim to potential exploits targeting the AirBorne vulnerability.


The $2,000 Gamble: What Apple's First Foldable iPhone Must Get Right

The tech world is buzzing with a single question: when will Apple unveil its first foldable phone? After years of watching rivals, from Samsung to Google, pioneer the bendable future, Apple's move into the foldable market has been a slow-burn saga of anticipation. Now, the picture is starting to come into focus, and if the latest analyst reports and supply chain whispers are to be believed, Apple is not just entering the race—it's aiming to redefine it with a premium, "no-compromise" device.

Let's dive into what we think we know about Apple's most anticipated product in years.

The "When": A Late 2026 Debut? Maybe.

Patience will be key. The most consistent launch window points to late 2026, potentially alongside the iPhone 18 series. However, a well-known caveat hangs over this timeline: Apple is notorious for delaying products until they meet its exacting standards. As with the original iPhone or Apple Watch, the company's debut here will be dictated by its own readiness, not external competition. Insiders suggest the launch could slip into 2027 if key technical hurdles aren't perfectly cleared.

The "How Much": Brace for a Premium Price Tag

Get ready for sticker shock. Early estimates place the starting price for Apple's foldable iPhone firmly above $2,000. This positions it not just as another smartphone, but as a luxury-tier, early-adopter device—a statement piece. This premium reflects the immense cost of cutting-edge, crease-minimizing display tech and the complex, durable hinge engineering required to make it all work.

The Design & Key Features: Solving the Foldable Frustrations

Apple seems to be directly targeting the pain points that have held some consumers back from current foldables:

  • The "Book-Style" Form: Expect a horizontal fold, opening like a book into a tablet-like screen. The goal is an ultra-thin profile, possibly the thinnest iPhone ever when unfolded.

  • The Invisible Crease: This is Apple's big ambition. The company has reportedly waited this long specifically to develop a display where the fold line is nearly invisible, a stark contrast to the visible crease on many current models.

  • The Durability Hinge: Hinge reliability is crucial. Apple is said to be investing in advanced alloys and new designs to ensure this device lasts, prioritizing long-term resilience.

  • Touch ID Makes a Comeback: In a significant shift, the foldable iPhone is rumored to replace Face ID with a Touch ID sensor embedded in the side button. This saves crucial internal space in the slim folding chassis.

  • Display Details: The inner screen is expected to be 7.6 to 7.8 inches (great for reading and multitasking), paired with a 5.4 to 5.5-inch outer cover screen for quick use.

The Bottom Line: A Deliberate Disruption

Apple's strategy appears clear: enter the market only when it can deliver a polished product that solves the core compromises of durability, display quality, and battery life. While the high price will make it a device for tech enthusiasts and early adopters at first, its arrival could legitimize and reshape the entire foldable segment for the mainstream—just as the iPhone did for smartphones.

Whether it lands in 2026 or 2027, one thing is certain: Apple's foldable iPhone is poised to be one of the most meticulously watched and debated product launches in the company's history.


Samsung Galaxy S25 Series: Redefining AI Integration in Smartphones

Samsung Galaxy S25 | S25+
GDN Desk

Dubai, UAE – May 15, 2025
Samsung has unveiled its Galaxy S25 series, marking a significant leap in smartphone technology by integrating advanced artificial intelligence (AI) features that offer users a more personalized and intuitive experience.

The Galaxy S25 series introduces multimodal AI agents capable of interpreting text, speech, images, and videos, enabling natural interactions between users and their devices. With the upgraded One UI 7, users can perform context-aware searches and receive actionable suggestions, enhancing productivity and user engagement.

Features like Google's enhanced Circle to Search allow users to quickly recognize phone numbers, emails, and URLs on their screens, facilitating immediate actions such as calls or website visits.

Samsung prioritizes user privacy with its Personal Data Engine, which analyzes data on-device to deliver tailored experiences without compromising security. The integration of post-quantum cryptography and the Knox Vault ensures that personal data remains protected against emerging threats.

Equipped with the Snapdragon® 8 Elite processor, the Galaxy S25 series offers a 40% boost in neural processing, enabling advanced AI-driven photography features. The ProVisual Engine and ProScaler enhance image quality, while the 200MP main camera delivers exceptional clarity, even in low-light conditions.

The devices also feature improved cooling systems with a 40% larger vapor chamber, ensuring optimal performance during intensive tasks.

The Galaxy S25 series, including the S25, S25+, and S25 Ultra, is available for pre-order through major retailers and Samsung's official website. The devices are set to launch on May 30, 2025, with prices starting at $1,099.99.


iPhone: Qatar vs. Middle East vs. Global Prices

The latest iPhone 16 series reveals stark price disparities worldwide, with Qatar and India topping the list as the most expensive markets, while the U.S. and UAE offer far better deals.

1. iPhone 16 Series

iPhone 16 (128GB) 1214

  • Qatar: QAR 3,240 (~$888)

  • UAE: AED 3,399 (~$925)

  • Saudi Arabia: ~AED 3,399 (similar to UAE)

  • USA: $799 (~QAR 2,915)

  • India: ₹79,900 (~QAR 3,650)

  • Japan: ¥124,800 (~QAR 3,400)

Verdict: USA is cheapest, Qatar is ~11% costlier than the US, while India is the most expensive in this segment.


iPhone 16 Pro Max (256GB) 1214

  • Qatar: QAR 7,646 (~$2,095)

  • UAE: AED 5,099 (~$1,388)

  • Saudi Arabia: ~AED 5,099 (similar to UAE)

  • USA: $1,199 (~QAR 4,380)

  • India: ₹1,44,900 (~QAR 6,620)

  • Japan: ¥189,800 (~QAR 5,180)

Verdict: UAE/Saudi Arabia are 34% cheaper than Qatar, while the US remains the most affordable. India is 51% pricier than the US.


2. iPhone 16e (Budget Model) Comparison 8

  • Qatar: QAR 1,796 (~$492)

  • India: ₹59,900 (~QAR 2,740)

  • UAE: AED 2,599 (~$707)

  • USA: $599 (~QAR 2,190)

  • Japan: ¥99,800 (~QAR 2,720)

Verdict: USA is cheapest, Qatar is 18% costlier, while India is 40% pricier than the US.


3. Key Observations

  1. Middle East (UAE/KSA) vs. Qatar:

    • UAE/Saudi prices are lower than Qatar for Pro models (e.g., iPhone 16 Pro Max is $700 cheaper in UAE).

    • Qatar’s prices align more with European markets (e.g., France, Germany) 12.

  2. Global Trends:

    • USA is consistently the cheapest (no VAT, lower tariffs).

    • India remains expensive due to import taxes (22%) and slower local production ramp-up 812.

    • Japan/Hong Kong are competitive for unlocked models 10.

  3. Trump Tariff Impact:

    • If US tariffs (up to 43%) are enforced, iPhones could become $2,300+ in the US, narrowing the gap with Qatar/UAE 6.


4. Where to Buy?

  • For Qatar Residents: Consider UAE purchases (Sharaf DG/Noon) for Pro models 149.

  • For Best Global Deals: USA (if tariff-free) or Japan/Hong Kong for unlocked units 10.

Tax Note: Qatar/UAE prices include VAT (5%), while US prices exclude state taxes.


Summary Table: iPhone 16 Series Price Comparison (128GB)

Country iPhone 16 iPhone 16 Pro Max
Qatar $888 $2,095
UAE $925 $1,388
USA $799 $1,199
India $1,090 $1,970

Data Sources: [Financial Express]12, [Sharaf DG]14, [India Today]8.


Most iPhones Sold in the U.S. Will Soon Be "Made in India"

Introduction
Apple is making a historic shift in its supply chain strategy, planning to produce over 80 million iPhones annually in India by 2026—enough to cover most U.S. sales. This move, driven by geopolitical tensions, tariff advantages, and India’s booming manufacturing sector, could redefine global tech production. Here’s what’s happening and why it matters.


1. Apple’s India Expansion: Key Numbers

  • Current Production: 40 million iPhones/year (FY2025) – 20% of global output.

  • Target for 2026: 80 million+ units, doubling capacity.

  • Exports: $17.5 billion worth of iPhones shipped from India in FY2025.

  • U.S. Market: 60M+ iPhones sold annually; India aims to supply most of these.


2. Why Apple Is Betting Big on India

A. Escaping Geopolitical Risks

  • U.S.-China tensions and Trump-era tariffs (145% on Chinese goods) pushed Apple to diversify.

  • India-made iPhones avoid U.S. duties after April 2024 exemptions.

B. India’s Manufacturing Boom

  • "Make in India" subsidies: PM Modi’s incentives attract global tech giants.

  • Foxconn & Tata Group: Ramping up factories in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka.

C. Supply Chain Resilience

  • Post-COVID, Apple seeks to avoid disruptions like those at China’s Zhengzhou ("iPhone City") plant.


3. Who’s Building India’s iPhones?

  • Foxconn: Largest assembler (50%+ of India’s output).

  • Tata Group: Now owns Wistron’s ops, manages Pegatron, and is building new plants.

  • Full iPhone Range: From budget SE models to titanium-clad iPhone 15 Pro.


4. Challenges Ahead

  • Scaling Up: India must match China’s speed and precision.

  • Infrastructure: Logistics and component sourcing remain hurdles.


5. What This Means for Consumers

  • No Price Cuts: Tariff savings unlikely to lower iPhone costs.

  • "Assembled in India" Labels: More common in U.S. stores by 2027.

The Bottom Line
Apple’s India pivot marks a watershed moment in global tech manufacturing. With China’s dominance waning, India’s rise as the next "iPhone hub" could reshape the industry—and your next iPhone’s origin story.


Buy Hp laptops with discount

1. Offer Overview

  • Promotion: Discounts on a wide range of HP laptops (models not specified, but likely includes Pavilion, Envy, or other popular series) 512.

  • Validity: 24 April – 11 May 2025 (12 days remaining as of 29 April) 35.


2. Key Details

  • Branches: Available at 3 locations in Qatar:

    • Al Rayyan (Al Sheikh Salman bin Khalid Al Thani Center) 3.

    • Jaidah Square (Airport Road) 3.

    • Salwa Road (Ramada Crossing) 3.


3. How to Avail

  • In-Store: Visit any of the 3 branches with the offer details (catalog or Facebook post) 312.

  • Online: No direct e-commerce link found, but follow Jarir Qatar’s Facebook page for updates 12.



4. Important Notes

  • Expiry: 11 May 2025 – Limited stock likely 512.

  • Verification: Contact stores to confirm model availability and pricing:

    • Al Rayyan: +974 4411 4322

    • Jaidah Square: +974 4451 6700 3.


Summary

This is a time-sensitive, in-store promotion for HP laptops at competitive prices. For exact models/discounts, visit a branch or check their Facebook page 312. Let me know if you’d like help comparing specific models!


Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra Price in Qatar – Latest Price & Deals

Galaxy S24 Ultra
Stuff Reporter

Doha, Qatar – Samsung’s premium flagship, the Galaxy S24 Ultra, is now available in Qatar at a discounted price! According to Al Anees Qatar, the smartphone is currently priced at QR 3,099, down from its original price of QR 3,999.

Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra Price in Qatar:

  • Was: QR 3,999

  • Now: QR 3,099

  • Source: Al Anees Qatar

This exclusive price drop makes the Galaxy S24 Ultra an even more attractive option for tech enthusiasts looking for a high-performance smartphone.

Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra – Key Features & Specifications

Display: 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 120Hz refresh rate
Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 / Exynos 2400 (region-specific)
Camera: 200MP main sensor, enhanced AI zoom, pro-grade video recording
Battery: 5,000mAh with 45W fast charging
Storage Options: Up to 1TB with 12GB RAM
Operating System: Android 14 with One UI 6.1
S Pen Support: Built-in stylus for seamless productivity

Where to Buy Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra in Qatar?

The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra is available at Al Anees Qatar and other leading retailers, including Jarir Bookstore, Lulu Hypermarket, Carrefour, and online stores like Amazon and Samsung Qatar’s official store. Prices and availability may vary, so checking for the best deal is recommended.

Why Buy the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra Now?

  • Limited-Time Price Drop – Save QR 900 on your purchase.

  • Cutting-Edge Features – Perfect for photography, gaming, and multitasking.

  • Premium Build & Design – Sleek, durable, and stylish.

Final Thoughts

If you're looking for a top-tier smartphone with the latest technology, the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra is an excellent choice. With its discounted price of QR 3,099 at Al Anees Qatar, now is the best time to make your purchase in Qatar.

Stay updated with the latest tech news, gadget releases, and exclusive deals in Qatar!