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NOVOTEL CELEBRATES ONE YEAR OF OCEAN COMMITMENT AND SUSTAINABLE PARTNERSHIP WITH WWF
Rashad Iskandrni
NOVOTEL
LAUNCHES SUSTAINABLE SEAFOOD PRINCIPLES WITH WWF AND ANNOUNCES NEW
PLANT-FORWARD AMBITION AHEAD OF WORLD OCEAN DAY
Riyadh,
21 May 2025 – Ahead of World Ocean Day (8 June), Novotel proudly marks
the first anniversary of its transformative three-year partnership with the
World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF), reaffirming its commitment to protecting the
wellbeing and longevity of the ocean with the launch of two new food policies: Novotel’s Sustainable
Seafood Principles in partnership with WWF France and the launch of a
pioneering global Plant-Forward food ambition across 600 hotels.
"At
Novotel, we are taking decisive action to protect our oceans, and the
partnership with WWF is a driving force of this commitment,” said Jean-Yves Minet,
Novotel Global Brand President. “Through their guidance and
expertise, we can drive change at scale across our 600 hotels and more widely
across the industry and communities we reach. At Novotel, we’re committed to
making it easier to make choices that have a positive impact on the longevity
of the planet, on marine life, and on future generations. From responsible
sourcing to a Plant-Forward approach, our ocean impact strategy is designed to
drive real change. Together, we can lead the way toward a healthier, more
sustainable future - one positive choice at a time."
DELICIOUS,
HEALTHIER, MORE SUSTAINABLE FOOD
The new Sustainable Seafood Principles were created in partnership with WWF and led by the fisheries experts at WWF France. The new guidelines, launched globally across Novotel’s 600 hotels, include banning of 350 species of endangered seafood species, and promoting responsible fishing by 2027, serving only MSC-certified wild-caught species or responsibly sourced local fish, and use ASC- or organic-certified farmed seafood for salmon and shrimp, fostering supplier collaboration where needed. WWF France has created Sustainable Seafood Training, a comprehensive global training programme for Novotel chefs, food and procurement teams, and is working alongside Novotel and Accor to improve traceability.
Furthermore,
Novotel has pioneered a Plant-Forward1 ambition, targeting all its 600 hotels
to have a minimum of 25% plant-based menus by 2026. Today 39% of hotels
dedicate at least 25% of their menus to plant-forward options. Novotel is
committed to offering market leading, tasty, sustainable, and Plant-Forward
philosophy at scale, guided by a leading culinary institute.
EDUCATION
& AWARENESS FOR THE NEXT GENERATION
Novotel
welcomes more than two million family stays a year and this summer families at
Novotel will experience two new edutainment games designed by WWF France and
Novotel to inspire and empower children to be ambassadors for the ocean. “Guardians
of the Mediterranean” is an interactive card and digital game inspired by
the WWF Blue Panda boat, created to educate families about ocean conservation
in a fun, engaging way. “Sea Turtle” is a lively digital quiz that helps
children learn about the threats faced during turtle migration, including ghost
gear, plastic and pollution.
“Inspiring
and educating the next generation is key to protecting our ocean,” added Jean-Yves. “By
engaging young minds through play, we plant the seeds of awareness, empathy,
and action for a healthier, more sustainable marine future. As a leading
family-friendly hotel brand, Novotel is perfectly placed to champion this vital
mission.”
A
YEAR OF PROGRESS: STRENGTHENING NOVOTEL’S COMMITMENT TO THE OCEANS
Since
its launch in June 2024, Novotel has made significant strides to deliver upon
its ocean preservation and sustainable impact plan:
1/
REDUCE IMPACT
Novotel’s
commitment to reducing its impact aligns with Accor’s industry-leading mission
towards positive hospitality, including:
‑
Phasing out single-use
plastics across Novotel hotel operations
‑
Installing large-format
and refillable dispensers in hotels
‑
Minimizing food waste
through innovative solutions and guest engagement
‑
Launched microplastic
filter pilots in two Novotel hotels2 in France to reduce impact from
hotel laundry
2/
DELICIOUS, HEALTHIER & MORE SUSTAINABLE FOOD CHOICES
In
addition to the new Plant-Forward ambition and Sustainable Seafood Principles,
Novotel has implemented significant actions:
‑
A globally managed
Fishery Improvement Project (FIP) was launched in Q1 2025 in collaboration with
WWF, including support of the Indian Squid FIP in Kerala, India
‑
A Seafood Taskforce
procurement project has been launched in Europe in collaboration with WWF
France, working directly with five suppliers to improve traceability as part of
the brand’s commitment to support WWF’s ambition for sector-wide change
throughout the supply chain.
3/
ENHANCE EDUCATION & OCEAN AWARENESS
Novotel
is committed to raising awareness of the importance of the ocean to modern
life, inspiring hotel teams, guests and communities to positively contribute to
a more balanced life with the ocean.
‑
New global Ocean Awareness
Training
for
all Novotel teams in all 600 hotels, enhancing their knowledge and inspiring
their action and commitment. The training has been developed in partnership
with AXA Climate.
‑
New WWF Sustainable Seafood Training: for all chef,
F&B and procurement teams, including the impact of overfishing, sustainable
seafood sourcing and best-in-class sustainability practices in restaurants.
‑ Edutainment in-hotel events, programming and games to inspire positive action amongst the Novotel community.
4/
CONTRIBUTE TO RESEARCH & INNOVATION
Novotel
is supporting essential WWF France conservation projects around the world,
investing to support ocean impact, research and action through critical
projects.
1/
The protection of Posidonia in the Mediterranean
‑
Where: Europe
‑
Why: Per hectare, the
Posidonia meadow sequesters five to seven times more carbon than the tropical
forest
‑ Status: Action plans underway in 9 coastal cities; 8 mooring fields in project; and 73 buoy conversions completed in 2024 and 41 planned in 2025.
2/
The identification and removal of “ghost gear”
‑
Where: Mediterranean Sea
‑
Why: Lost, abandoned and
otherwise discarded fishing gear are a major threat to marine life
‑
Status: Over
1,000 hectares prospected in Bonifacio; several4 nets
identified; pilot retrieval with underwater robots scheduled for 2025–2026; new
prospection missions in Calanques and Ajaccio planned.
3/
Supporting the WWF France’s Blue Panda boat
‑
Where: Europe - France,
Greece, Türkiye, Italy and Croatia
‑
Why: The Blue Panda
sails across the Mediterranean conducting missions to develop science-based
solutions and recommendations to protect Mediterranean marine life, to raise
public awareness, and leading lobbying missions with countries and communities.
‑
Status: 2024 campaign
completed across France, Greece, Turkey, Italy and Croatia; educational visits
reached 550+ children in France; Cap Cétacés anti-collision system tested;
ghost gear prospection and Marine Protection Areas studies conducted; Blue Panda
to be in Nice 8–14 June for UNOC with stakeholder events.
4/
Tracking and tracing marine turtles
‑
Where: Global, with a
specific focus on Asia-Pacific
‑
Why: Six of seven
species of marine turtles remained threatened by harvesting, illegal trade,
being caught by commercial fisheries and the loss of nesting beaches. Mapping
nesting beaches, migratory corridors and foraging grounds for critical turtle
populations.
‑
Status: ‘Blue Corridors’
initiative launched October 2024; over 12,600 turtles tracked globally; data
gathering and connectivity analysis ongoing in 2025; update to be published by
WWF at UNOC 2025.
5/
Protecting the sea turtles of the Western Atlantic
‑
Where: Guiana Shield
‑
Why: Mobilising civic
society and fighting illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing will help
protect leatherback turtles breeding on coastal areas of the Guianas, and green
and olive ridley turtles from Brazil to Venezuela.
‑
Status: Youth ambassador
programme launched; regional delegation to attend UNOC in June 2025; field
projects including eco-guide training, citizen science, and advocacy actions
ongoing through 2025-2026.
Ludovic Frère
Escoffier, Ocean Program Manager, WWF France, said:
“Protecting
the ocean also means protecting our common future. Faced with the growing threats
of overfishing, pollution and loss of biodiversity, economic players have a key
role to play. We welcome Novotel's commitment to integrating the preservation
of marine ecosystems into its strategy. By collaborating with influential
companies in the tourism sector, together we are accelerating the transition to
more sustainable, responsible practices that are compatible with ocean
resilience.”
“The
ocean is our planet’s greatest source of balance - the ‘lungs of the world’,” added Jean-Yves Minet. “It
regulates climate, supports livelihoods, and protects ecosystems. But that
balance is at risk. To secure a sustainable future, we must rebalance our
relationship with the oceans, reducing our impact and ensuring marine health.
Our wellbeing is deeply tied to the health of the ocean. Protecting the ocean
isn’t just about the environment, it’s about supporting human health and
longevity too.”
WHAT’S
NEXT FOR NOVOTEL? POSITIVE STEPS TO IMPACT OCEAN LONGEVITY
Looking
ahead, Novotel remains committed to amplifying its impact by:
✅ Collaborating with
industry leaders at UN Ocean Conference in Nice to drive meaningful change
✅ WWF Sustainable Seafood
Training – launching summer 2025
✅ Ocean Awareness
Training in partnership with AXA Climate – launching summer 2025
✅ Expanding sustainable
seafood practices across all hotels
✅ Embedding a new
Plant-Forward menu strategy in all hotels
✅ Introducing new guest
engagement programs focused on ocean preservation
✅ Continuing to support
critical WWF France ocean preservation projects around the world
For
more information about Novotel’s sustainability initiatives, learn our
partnership with WWF, and to read the Novotel Ocean Impact Report in full,
visit Novotel - Ocean
###
6 DELICIOUS
PLANT-BASED DISHES @ NOVOTEL HOTELS
1.
Flying
Elephant @ Novotel Dubai Al Barsha
a.
Zameen
Ke Kebab, honey glazed beet, spicy mascarpone, Masala plum coilee
2.
Azzurra
Kitchen @ Novotel Monte Carlo.
a.
Beetroot
and Chickpea Hummus with Tahini, Fresh Herbs, spring vegetables and purslane
shoots.
3.
MOKU @
Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort
a.
Green
Paw Paw Salad with green paw paw & carrot, avocado, soft herbs, edamame,
nam jim dressing, cassava crackers & charred lime
4.
Novotel
Melbourne Airport – Boccata Restaurant & Bar
a.
Rigatoni
with Confit Tomatoes, Stracciatella and Pangrattato
5.
Bokan @
Novotel London Canary Wharf
a.
Black
Lime Tofu, Dashi Broth with an Onion and Spinach Marmalade – part of the vegan
tasting experience and vegan bottomless brunch
6.
Ici&là
@ Novotel Strasbourg Centre Halles
a.
Quinoa
Lover Burger with quinoa-chili galette, Alsacian cheddar, pesto rosso,
aubergine, courgette and green salad
###
مواضيع ذات صلة
Pfizer Appoints Rodrigo Puga as Cluster President for the Middle East, Russia & Africa
DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES, 16 September 2025— Pfizer today announced the appointment of Rodrigo Puga as Cluster President for the Middle East, Russia & Africa (MERA). In this role, Rodrigo will spearhead Pfizer’s operations across the region, leading strategy, operations, and performance, while ensuring patients across the region have access to breakthrough innovations.
In his new position, Rodrigo will oversee a diverse portfolio that spans vaccines, oncology, rare diseases, internal medicine, and inflammation and immunology, while working closely with partners and stakeholders to drive sustainable growth and impact, setting a bold strategy and delivering on Pfizer’s goals for MERA.
Commenting on his appointment, Rodrigo said: “Over the past three decades at Pfizer, I’ve had the privilege of working in many different markets, each with its own challenges, opportunities, and lessons. These experiences have shaped how I think about innovation, collaboration, and what it truly takes to deliver meaningful impact for patients. Taking on the leadership of MERA is an exciting new chapter, where I hope to build on that learning and expand both my knowledge and skills in partnership with our colleagues, governments, and stakeholders across the region. This is a moment to think boldly about how Pfizer can accelerate access, strengthen local capabilities, and continue setting new standards in healthcare for the communities we serve.”
“What makes MERA so unique is its extraordinary diversity. From fast-growing economies investing heavily in health infrastructure to markets pioneering digital health adoption, this diversity creates both complexity and opportunity, and I believe it’s where Pfizer can make a real difference by bringing global science together with local insight,” he added.
Rodrigo brings nearly three decades of experience with Pfizer, during which he has built a reputation as a dynamic, strategic leader committed to driving innovation, growth, and patient-centric solutions. Most recently, he served as Senior Vice President and U.S. Business Lead for Internal Medicine, where he oversaw Pfizer’s cardiovascular, metabolic, and women’s health portfolio.
Throughout his career, Rodrigo has successfully led full business turnarounds, launched new products, expanded market access, and driven acquisitions and integrations. His leadership roles have spanned the globe, including Country President positions in Mexico, Colombia, and Peru, as well as senior global roles such as Global Marketing Lead for Internal Medicine and Vice President, Global Talent Lead.
About Pfizer: Breakthroughs That Change Patients’ Lives
At Pfizer, we apply science and our global resources to bring therapies to people that extend and significantly improve their lives. We strive to set the standard for quality, safety and value in the discovery, development, and manufacture of health care products, including innovative medicines and vaccines. Every day, Pfizer colleagues work across developed and emerging markets to advance wellness, prevention, treatments, and cures that challenge the most feared diseases of our time. Consistent with our responsibility as one of the world’s premier innovative biopharmaceutical companies, we collaborate with health care providers, governments, and local communities to support and expand access to reliable, affordable health care around the world. For more than 175 years, we have worked to make a difference for all who rely on us. We routinely post information that may be important to investors on our website at www.Pfizer.com.
منذ ساعتين . News
Paymentology and Enjaz Sign MOU to Advance Next-Generation Digital Payments in Saudi Arabia
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia 17 September – Paymentology, the leading global issuer-processor, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Enjaz, one of Saudi Arabia’s most trusted providers of remittance and digital payment solutions. Together, the two companies are entering a partnership to advance next-generation digital payments in the Kingdom, bringing greater choice, speed, and customer-centric innovation to consumers and businesses.
Enjaz enables money transfers to over 200 countries via digital channels, branches, and global partners. With Paymentology’s support, it will expand into next-generation card products, including prepaid, debit, and virtual cards – integrated with its existing services.
By harnessing Paymentology’s highly configurable, cloud-first issuing and processing platform, Enjaz extends its product launch capabilities and bring a new wave of of innovative digital payment services to the Kingdom. These include international and domestic scheme enablement, tokenisation with Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay and Mada Pay; and advanced multi-level controls enhancing security, enabling leading-edge propositions and real-time decisioning. Enjaz will also benefit from access to more than 450 production-ready APIs, enabling rapid innovation and the addition of new features such as loyalty and multi-currency wallets. Alongside this, real-time data feeds and analytics will power smarter fraud prevention, personalised offers, and deeper engagement across the cardholder journey.
Crucially, this innovation is underpinned by local infrastructure, already deployed on Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI) and soon to be deployed on Google Cloud Platform (GCP) in Saudi Arabia, ensuring both speed and compliance with the Kingdom’s regulatory requirements.
Bassam AlEidy, CEO at Enjaz, said: “At Enjaz, our focus has always been on giving our customers speed, convenience, and security, whether they are transferring money abroad or making everyday payments. By collaborating with Paymentology, we can now extend our card services that expand choice and enhance financial freedom. This partnership represents a major step in shaping the future of payments in Saudi Arabia, delivering innovation that is inclusive, dynamic, and tailored to the needs of our market.”
Jeff Parker, CEO of Paymentology, added: “Saudi Arabia is building one of the world’s most dynamic payments ecosystems under Vision 2030. Enjaz’s ambition adds to that momentum, and Paymentology’s role is to power innovators with secure, scalable issuing. Together with Enjaz, we’ll expand choice, accelerate time-to-market, and raise the bar for customer experience in the Kingdom.”
The Kingdom’s payments landscape is undergoing rapid transformation, with the Saudi Central Bank (SAMA) reporting that electronic payments accounted for 79% of total retail transactions in 2024, up from 70% in 2023. Non-cash transactions rose to 12.6 billion in 2024, highlighting the acceleration towards a cash-lite economy.
منذ ساعتين . News
inDrive Launches in inDrive Launches in Riyadh,Expanding Its Footprint in Saudi Arabia
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – inDrive, a global mobility and urban services platform, has officially launched its ride-hailing service in Riyadh, marking its second city launch in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in 2025, following a successful rollout in Jeddah earlier this year. inDrive is already operating in test mode in Riyadh, but the official launch is scheduled for September 23rd during Saudi Arabia's National Day.
For the third consecutive year, inDrive has ranked as the world’s second most-downloaded mobility app, according to Sensor Tower. The platform is a top travel app in the MENA region, especially in Morocco and Egypt, and operates in 48 countries across Asia, Africa, and Latin America.
The Riyadh launch follows inDrive’s announcement in April 2025 that it had received its official license to operate in Saudi Arabia – a significant milestone that paved the way for rapid expansion across the Kingdom.
“Our unique peer-to-peer model has proven effective across the globe,” said Abdulrahman Basallum, inDrive Country Manager in KSA. “After a strong response to our test launch in Jeddah, where we quickly built a base of both drivers and passengers, we’re confident in our ability to succeed in Riyadh as well. People appreciate our fair, transparent service and they recommend it to others.”
Unlike traditional ride-hailing apps, inDrive offers a unique bidding model where passengers propose a fare, and drivers have the freedom to accept, decline, or counter the offer. This model empowers both parties, resulting in fairer prices and a higher level of user satisfaction. Drivers also benefit from significantly lower commission fees- 2 to 3 times lower than industry averages.
Moreover, to support the launch of the service in the country, inDrive drivers will not pay any commission at first, allowing them to earn even more, while passengers will be able to negotiate even more attractive ride prices.
The user base in Jeddah has been growing by over 250% month-over-month on average over the past quarter, exceeding the company's expectations. The company sees significant growth potential in the country, as its business model demonstrates a strong product-market fit.
Backed by major global investors including Insight Partners, Bond Capital, and General Catalyst, inDrive was last valued at $1.23 billion in 2021. The company has since seen substantial revenue growth.
inDrive’s broader mission is to challenge injustice and positively impact the lives of over 1 billion people by 2030. As part of this commitment, the company invests across MENA region in social initiatives focused on education, culture, sustainability, and gender equality.
The company also maintains a strong focus on safety, employing advanced technology for driver verification, ride tracking, and a dedicated 24/7 customer support team to handle critical situations.
منذ ساعتين . News
Creativity Connected: Sony Demonstrates Next-Generation Tools and Ecosystems for The Media Industry at IBC 2025
Sony’s tools and services usher in a new era of authentic and creative storytelling through simplified integration, impeccable image quality, sustainable approaches and cloud-native or hybrid workflows.
(Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, 11 September 2025) – The Sony IBC 2025 exhibit will present a powerful combination of hardware and software solutions – including camcorders, studio cameras, monitors, switchers, and storage – seamlessly integrated with the latest advancements in Cloud, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and IP technologies. Together, they form a dynamic and connected ecosystem designed to elevate content creation and streamline media production workflows, be they for news and live production or filmmaking.
Authenticity and real-time creativity
As AI-generated and manipulated content becomes increasingly sophisticated, the need for trusted, verifiable imagery has never been greater, especially for media professionals. Sony is a member of the steering committee of C2PA (Coalition for Content Provenance and Authenticity) and is involved in the organization’s efforts to track media’s provenance. The PXW-Z300 is also the world's first camcorder to embed digital signatures directly into video files, alongside featuring 1/2-inch 4K 3-CMOS Exmor R®️ sensors, the latest BIONZ XR™️ image processing engine, and a dedicated AI-processing unit. At IBC, Sony’s Ci Media Cloud and Sony’s Media Backbone Hive platform will also preview functions helping news organisations to verify footage provenance by displaying the digital signature information compliant with the C2PA standard. Media Backbone Hive recently launched its latest version, V2.3, featuring an advanced Web Editor and integration with AWS AI services. Hive Cloud is now compatible with the Time-addressable Media Store API (TAMS), enabling news agencies and broadcasters a fast-turnaround and cost-effective workflow in the cloud.
Cloud-native tools, applied intelligence and enhanced connectivity for agile workflows
The newly launched PXW-Z300 camcorder incorporates a dedicated AI-processing unit and an image processing engine. This enables high-precision subject (human) recognition based on face, eye, skeletal structure, and posture information. It also features an auto-framing function that automatically adjusts composition to keep human subjects centred in the frame.
A perfect companion to the PXW-Z300 is the new compact data transmitter LiveU TX1, co-developed with LiveU under a collaborative partnership scheduled for commercial release in 2026, exhibited for the first time at IBC. It supports resilient bonded transmission for faster data transfers using multiple network connections and enables automatic file transfers simply by connecting the device to a camera via USB. These features streamline video production by allowing direct file transmission from the field. In addition to USB connectivity, SDI support is also planned, enabling compatibility with a wide range of Sony camcorders. Sony will continue to offer diverse video transmission workflows to customers through products such as the 5G-compatible wireless communication device PDT-FP1, which enables high-speed, low-latency video transmission, and through collaborations with various industry partners.
5G is steadily becoming more widely used in the news and live events workflows for transmission as demonstrated by the numerous high profile trials Sony has participated in over the last 18 months. In July 2025, Sony, BT, and SailGP tested roaming Full HD cameras over a high-capacity network slice, enabling global broadcasts. Select photographers also uploaded real-time images via Sony Alpha cameras and the PDT-FP1.
Sony’s ecosystem Creators’ Cloud continues to evolve, and IBC 2025 will see the latest versions of Creators' Cloud apps, be they for individuals or for enterprise, such as Monitor & Control, Creators' App for Enterprise, Catalyst Prepare, and Catalyst Prepare Plugin supporting creators. Ci Media Cloud’s LiveSession is now available as an add-on to MediaBox, enabling live, high-resolution review and collaboration with guests via share-link – no Ci account required. A redesigned Adobe Premiere Pro panel will launch this winter, allowing editors to access Ci Workspaces directly, drag and drop assets, import comments as timeline markers, and re-link proxies to source files more easily. A prototype of the Premiere Pro panel plugin will be available for demonstrations at IBC. Platform upgrades, including accelerated transcoding and live stream optimisation, boost Ci’s speed and reliability for media teams in 190 countries.
Open ecosystem and integration
Software Defined Broadcast (SDB) reflects Sony’s long-term vision for an interoperable, software-centric broadcast future. Aligned with the EBU’s Dynamic Media Facility and Media Exchange Layer initiatives, SDB aims to decouple media applications from dedicated hardware, enabling them to run as scalable services across commodity IT infrastructure. Sony is actively integrating products like M2L-X, HawkREPLAY and parts of the Nevion portfolio into this shared-memory framework, offering high-efficiency media exchange without the limitations of traditional formats like ST 2110. By showcasing at IBC real-world implementations of these technologies, Sony reinforces its commitment to open standards, multi-vendor collaboration, and next generation broadcast architectures.
As the industry moves from hardware to software-based content flows, Sony’s Software Defined Broadcast initiative represents a pragmatic and deployable approach to modern live production. Built around proven components such as Global Event Manager (GEM), Stream Relay, M2L-X and Ci Media Cloud, Software Defined Broadcast current capabilities enable intelligent orchestration and automation of complex multi-venue workflows. A recent and ongoing UK major sports project demonstrates this in action — delivering scalable, efficient and cost-effective production using cloud-native infrastructure. With dynamic provisioning, pay-per-use efficiencies, and remote collaboration capabilities, Sony is helping redefine sports production. This marks the evolution from hardware-intensive deployments to agile, software-led ecosystems that can meet the demands of today’s distributed production models, while also opening the door to greater sustainability and scalability in live media processing and transport.
Aligned with the wider SDB vision, Hawk-Eye Innovations will be demonstrating a complete broadcast ecosystem with HawkREPLAY, HawkNEST, and Configure REPLAY. The system delivers 4x UHD slow-motion replays, advanced asset management, and remote production capabilities. It integrates seamlessly with Sony technology, offering a fully unified, cinematic-grade workflow for live sports and event broadcasting. At IBC 2025, Hawk-Eye Innovations is announcing HawkREPLAY in the Cloud launching in 2026.
Sony Networked Live is a modular, partner friendly and ever-expanding ecosystem designed to optimise live production workflows by leveraging IP networks for remote and distributed production.
Part of Networked Live’s ecosystem, Nevion announced support for hardware-accelerated SRT (Secure Reliable Transport) to its software-defined media node Virtuoso. This upgrade, added to existing low-latency HEVC compression functionality, enables broadcasters to leverage unmanaged networks, including the Internet, for applications such as connectivity back-up or GCCG (ground-to-cloud-cloud-to-ground) transport. Nevion’s VideoIPath release this month focuses on usability with a host of new features, including desktop simplification, multi-language support and single sign-on (SSO), designed for easier workflow handling for live production.
In this vein, the upcoming enhancements to the CNA-2 will boost operability for broadcast. New features include Scene File upload/download via PC, an intuitive WEB-MSU control panel, and GMCS support for the HDC-P50A. The update also introduces multiple 12-unit support through WEB-RCP and adds compatibility with both the AM7 and FR7 cameras, streamlining multi-camera workflows and expanding system flexibility across live production environments.
As part of its v2.4 scheduled for October 2025, the MLS-X1 software-based platform will introduce several new features and improvements, harnessing the capabilities of its hybrid architecture to deliver enhanced flexibility, performance, and operational efficiency. Enhanced functionalities include incorporating combined logic from Tally and XpT statuses for more dynamic workflows, through Advanced Conditional Actions, but also expanded DME effects by utilising GPU power to offer a broader range of effects. The V2.4 software will also deliver greater flexibility in node combinations, for more versatile configurations of MLS-X1 capabilities and functions.
In parallel, there is a growing demand for space-saving solutions in sports broadcasting, with the recent HDC-P50A meeting that need. The HDCE-500 camera extension adapter (planned for March 2026) is compatible with the HDC-5000 series, HDC-3000 series, and HDC-P50A system cameras. Positioned between the camera and CCU, it powers the camera and supports transmission up to 10 km by converting optical to single-mode fibre. When used with the HDC-P50A, it enables power and video transmission via a single SMPTE cable, offering greater operational flexibility.
In response to the explosion of content creators’ demand for plug-and-play studios, Sony’s Simplified Live ecosystem will be also showcasing a user friendly all in one studio set up from capture to content distribution that allows influencers and content creators to professionalise and automate their set ups, without compromising on image quality.
Virtual Production and immersive innovation
Sony’s exhibit at IBC 2025 will showcase the evolution of Spatial Content production including Virtual Production, through a series of creative tools, including digital cinema camera VENICE 2, camera tracking system OCELLUS, the latest LED displays Crystal LED CAPRI and VERONA for VP imagery, along with the latest version (Ver3.0) of Virtual Production Tool Set.
Sony will be demonstrating a tool that simplifies match-move work (traditionally done manually) by utilising tracking data (camera trajectory data) recorded with the camera tracking system OCELLUS, alongside its Virtual Production Tool Set Ver3.0, scheduled for release from December 2025 or later. All new features in V3.0 will be provided free of charge, including Viewing Angle colour correction, Ray Tracing Acceleration, and Colour Calibrator's new features such as Calibration for Third-party Cameras and LUT creation functionality that works with 2D plates.
Sony will present new software updates for its Cinema Line cameras that broaden creative workflows. The FX3 and FX30 can now record in Blackmagic RAW via HDMI to Blackmagic’s Video Assist devices. Meanwhile, an update from February 2026 will enable the FR7 to support OpenTrackIO, SMPTE’s open-source virtual production protocol, allowing standardised high-precision lens data output and smoother integration with third-party tools and CG engines, improving industry-wide compatibility and scalability.
Additionally, nablet, a German company specialising in media processing technology, has released the nablet X-OCN Media Extension plug-in for macOS this month, enabling X-OCN footage recorded with VENICE 2 and BURANO to be used with Apple’s Final Cut Pro for Mac. A further demonstration on the stand will bring together the VENICE Extension System Mini with Sony’s Spatial Reality Display (ELF-SR2) in 3D content production workflow. This setup allows glass-less, real-time monitoring of 3D images for immediate and accurate depth checking on set, improving both visual fidelity and production efficiency.
Sustainable innovation in practice
At IBC 2025, Sony will be welcoming visitors in the Elicium and will be showcasing some of its latest environmental initiatives alongside its technological demonstrations.
Aligned with Sony’s overarching Road to Zero set of sustainability focused initiatives, the IBC 2025 stand highlights sustainable innovation with Polygood®️ panels made from 100% recycled and recyclable plastic, including reclaimed medical equipment and repurposed food packaging waste. The zero-waste process reintegrates leftover plastics into production, ensuring a circular approach. Built for longevity, these panels are fully recyclable, crafted from pure recycled material, free of additives or binders. Incorporating these panels adds a powerful sustainability story to Sony’s booth and visitor experience. The stand will also feature 100% recycled plastic furniture and will be reused for at least the coming three years.
For more information about Sony’s exhibit at this year’s IBC, please visit pro.sony/ibc.
منذ 5 أيام . News
Sony Expands Lineup of High-Speed CFexpress Type A Memory Cards Compatible with CFexpress 4
The latest models include 480GB and 240GB options, which complement recently launched high-capacity cards, and provide users with flexible choices to meet their specific needs
(Riyadh, Saudi Arabia - 11 September 2025) – Sony is strengthening its portfolio of CFexpress Type A Memory Cards to accommodate the varying needs and budgets of professional and prosumer users. Two new capacity CFexpress 4 compatible cards, the CEA-G480T (480 GB ) and CEA-G240T (240 GB), will join the CEA-G1920T (1920 GB) and CEA-G960T (960 GB), which are now available for purchase.
The new memory cards achieve a high read speed exceeding 1,800 MB/s, along with a write speed of 1,700 MB/s. The CEA-G480T and CEA-G240T are compatible with select Cinema Line and mirrorless Alpha cameras, including the ILCE-7M4, ILCE-7SM3, ILCE-7RM5, ILCE-1, ILCE-1M2, ILCE-9M3, FX6, FX3, FX30, FX2, FR7, and PXW-Z200. Together with the recently released 1920 GB and 960 GB models, the 480 GB and 240 GB cards give users powerful, high-speed options in a range of capacities to address their unique use case and accommodate a wider range of scenarios.
Availability
The CEA-G480T and CEA-G240T will be available in selected countries in the Middle East from October 2025.
For detailed information about each card, please visit: https://www.sony.com/en-sa/electronics/xqd-memory-cards/cea-g-series
منذ 5 أيام . News
John Crane unveils game-changing Type 8628VL mechanical seal, setting new benchmark for ethane pipeline performance
SLOUGH (September 2025) ― John Crane has launched the Type 8628VL, a next generation mechanical seal engineered to solve the oil and gas industry's toughest challenges: maintaining sealing integrity in multiphase ethane and ethylene pipelines.Designed to perform under volatile pressure and temperature conditions, the Type 8628VL leverages spiral groove non-contacting technology to deliver exceptional reliability, operational efficiency, and environmental compliance.
Solving the Multiphase Challenge in Pipeline Infrastructure
Ethane pipelines present unique challenges due to frequent fluid phases shift from liquid to vapour to supercritical, which can compromise conventional seal performance. The Type 8628VL addresses this by employing dual non-contacting seal faces in a tandem configuration, a design validated by peer-reviewed Lubricants (MDPI) research. The research confirmed that spiral groove non-contacting seal faces deliver superior hydrodynamic lift, phase-change resilience, and zero-wear operation in volatile fluid applications, ultimately allowing ethane pipelines to eliminate friction and wear while using the process fluid in these different states to provide lubrication.
Initial Field Installations on the U.S Gulf Coast
A leading ethane transmission company operating along the U.S Gulf Coast faced a major operational challenge: Managing phase change during pumping with pressure variations. Ethane, which exists as a liquid at around 18oC (65 oF) and 40 bar (580 psi), transitions to vapour at approximately 32 oC (89 oF). This phase change created sealingand reliability issues, impacting uptime and seal life.
The operator installed four Type 8628VL seals on ethane pump equipment experiencing inconsistent performance at ~1100 psi. Three months into continuous operation and intermittent shutdowns, the results were clear:
“The performance is exactly what we hoped for - consistent, reliable, and robust. We now have full confidence in uptime,” said a senior reliability engineer from the customer site.
In addition, the deployment delivered measurable improvements in service turnaround, local service centre support and reduced refurbishment times. It also lowered the costsassociated with complex refurbishment, while the seal’s multiphase capability eliminated a key cause of premature seal failure.
Key Benefits:
Competitive Differentiation in a Changing Market
“Unlike hybrid or contacting seals, the Type 8628VL delivers pure non-contacting operation, even during rapid phase transitions,” said Mike Eason, Chief Technology Officer at John Crane. It’s a significant step forward for the sector.”
Eason added: “We will continue to expand our portfolio with products that meet customer reliability and energy transition goals. The Type 8628VL is a testament to our commitment to innovate for greater efficiency zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions”.
About John Crane
John Crane is a global leader in mission-critical technologies for the energy and process industries and an innovator in rotating equipment, encompassing mechanical seals, couplings, filtration systems and cutting-edge asset management and digital diagnostics solutions. Blending a rich legacy of innovation with a commitment to service excellence, we've enabled our customer’ reliable and sustainable operations for over a century. While recognising the role of traditional energy, we are pioneering solutions that enable cleaner alternatives, crafting a vision for a sustainable energy future. Our extensive global presence underscores our promise to customers, with over 200 service centres in 50 countries. With over £1.1 billion in revenue in 2024, we are an integral pillar of Smiths Group plc, a FTSE 100 listed industrial technology company dedicated to engineering a better future. Visit www.smiths.com for more.
منذ أسبوع . News