The system aims to help doctors make faster decisions by automatically processing patient data in real time. ASUS says its approach creates a “closed-loop” where devices continuously collect health information, AI analyzes it instantly, and doctors get actionable insights without delay.

What’s the news?

ASUS unveiled two main healthcare products at the Taiwan tech show:

• Handheld Ultrasound DuoScan: A portable ultrasound device with 192-element high-definition imaging and dual-probe design
• VivoWatch 6 Plus: A health monitoring smartwatch with blood pressure tracking, ECG monitoring, and new sleep analysis features

Both devices connect to what ASUS calls its “AI Agent healthcare platform,” which processes the collected health data and provides clinical insights. The ultrasound scanner offers three hours of battery life and IP68 water resistance for use in emergency rooms and intensive care units.

The VivoWatch 6 Plus includes a 1.43-inch AMOLED display with sapphire crystal glass and titanium construction. It monitors sleep breathing patterns and analyzes walking gait to assess chronic disease risks.

Why does it matter?

This represents a major tech company’s serious entry into medical devices, not just health tracking. ASUS is positioning itself to compete with established medical device manufacturers by combining consumer electronics expertise with clinical-grade hardware.

The timing reflects growing interest in AI-powered healthcare tools. ASUS cited a survey showing 68% of healthcare professionals expect AI agents to meaningfully impact clinical workflows. The COVID-19 pandemic also accelerated adoption of portable medical devices that can work outside traditional hospital settings.

For patients, this could mean faster diagnoses and more continuous health monitoring. The portable ultrasound particularly addresses a real need – traditional ultrasound machines are expensive and stationary, limiting access to imaging in rural areas or emergency situations.

The context

Major tech companies are increasingly targeting healthcare as a growth market. Apple has built significant health monitoring into its watches, Google is developing AI diagnostic tools, and Amazon has made multiple healthcare acquisitions.

The medical device market presents both opportunities and challenges for consumer tech companies:

• Healthcare devices require regulatory approval and clinical validation
• Doctors and hospitals have different purchasing processes than consumers
• Medical accuracy standards are much higher than typical consumer gadgets
• The potential market size is enormous – global medical devices hit $432 billion in 2020

ASUS’s approach focuses on creating an integrated ecosystem rather than standalone devices. This mirrors successful strategies in consumer tech but remains relatively uncommon in medical devices, where specialized single-purpose tools dominate.

The company’s emphasis on “AI agents” that can take actions autonomously also reflects broader industry trends toward more intelligent medical systems that assist clinical decision-making rather than just collecting data.

The post ASUS launches AI healthcare system with ultrasound scanner and smartwatch appeared first on DH Arab.

The proposed system copies Saudi Arabia’s Unified Health Record (UHR) platform, part of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 reform program. Pakistan’s healthcare system has long used localized paper recordkeeping that limits sharing patient information between hospitals and provinces.

What’s the plan?

Pakistan wants to model its system on Saudi Arabia’s UHR platform, which allows healthcare providers to access patient information through a centralized digital platform. Kamal said he spoke with Saudi officials recently about learning from their experience.

The system would maintain updated patient records including:

• Disease history
• Medications dispensed
• Medical insurance information
• Laboratory test results
• Vaccinations
• Referrals

Kamal said his ministry is working with the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) to link citizens’ medical records with their Computerized National Identity Cards (CNICs). “In the future, a patient’s CNIC could serve as their Medical Record number, allowing healthcare providers to access centralized medical histories across the country,” he said.

Pakistan is also exploring joint vaccine production with Saudi Arabia, Indonesia and China. Indonesia has agreed to transfer vaccine production technology, with Kamal expecting “a breakthrough very soon.”

Why does it matter?

Pakistan’s current paper-based system creates major inefficiencies in healthcare delivery. Patients often undergo duplicate tests when visiting different hospitals because doctors can’t access their previous medical records. This wastes time and money while potentially delaying critical treatment.

The vaccine production partnership addresses another pressing need. Pakistan requires around 130 million vaccine doses annually to immunize children against various diseases. The country currently spends up to $1.2 billion annually on vaccine imports and relies heavily on support from Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance.

International funding support is expected to decline by 2030, raising concerns about long-term vaccine supply sustainability. Local manufacturing would strengthen Pakistan’s health security, reduce import dependence, and conserve foreign exchange reserves.

The context

Digital health records systems have become standard in developed countries, but many developing nations still struggle with paper-based systems. Saudi Arabia’s investment in digital health infrastructure is part of its broader Vision 2030 economic diversification program.

Pakistan’s move reflects growing recognition that modern healthcare requires integrated digital systems. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted how fragmented health systems struggle to track patient data and coordinate care effectively.

The vaccine production initiative also fits Pakistan’s broader industrial policy goals. The country wants to develop export-oriented industries and reduce dependence on imports across multiple sectors, not just healthcare.

The post Pakistan wants Saudi Arabia’s help to digitize health records nationwide appeared first on DH Arab.

The Abu Dhabi Quality and Conformity Council rolled out the platform as part of broader efforts to digitize government services and strengthen quality control in key sectors like construction, healthcare, and manufacturing. The move comes as the UAE positions itself as a regional hub for business and innovation.

How does it work?

Mawthooq automates the entire laboratory management process from start to finish. Labs can now submit applications, renew certifications, and track their accreditation status online. The platform also handles:

• Audit scheduling and management
• Payment processing for lab services
• Non-compliance case tracking
• Data sharing between government agencies
• Real-time dashboards showing testing statistics

The system includes more than 10 specialized digital services designed to help laboratories meet quality standards more efficiently. It also creates a searchable directory of approved testing facilities across Abu Dhabi.

Why does it matter?

The platform addresses a critical need for reliable quality control in the UAE’s rapidly growing economy. By streamlining lab operations and improving transparency, Mawthooq should boost confidence among investors and international partners.

“Mawthooq contributes to improving the efficiency of the laboratory sector and streamlining its procedures, thereby enhancing the reliability of testing results,” said Eng. Fahad Gharib Al-Shamsi, Acting Secretary-General of Abu Dhabi Quality and Conformity Council.

The construction sector stands to benefit significantly, as building materials and safety testing becomes more standardized and trackable. This could help Abu Dhabi attract more international construction projects and manufacturing investments.

The context

This launch is part of the UAE’s broader digital transformation strategy. The country has been investing heavily in government digitization to improve business competitiveness and reduce bureaucracy.

Abu Dhabi is competing with other regional hubs like Dubai, Singapore, and Qatar to attract international businesses. Having a modern, efficient quality control system gives the emirate an advantage when courting manufacturers and construction companies.

The timing also aligns with increased global focus on supply chain transparency and product safety. Companies operating internationally face growing pressure to demonstrate their products meet quality standards – something Mawthooq’s digital tracking system can help provide.

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The shift includes virtual hospitals serving nearly 600,000 patients, AI doctors for diagnosis, and robotic surgery systems across multiple regions. Major hospitals are now performing the world’s first fully robotic heart and liver transplants, while new technology measures vital signs without touching patients during the annual Hajj pilgrimage.

What’s the news?

Saudi Arabia announced major healthcare investments and technological deployments as part of its Vision 2030 transformation program. The Kingdom has allocated:

• 31 billion riyals for hospital infrastructure
• 12 billion riyals for venture capital in health tech
• 2.3 billion riyals in life sciences development

The Seha Virtual Hospital now connects 242 hospitals and serves over 597,000 patients, bridging geographic gaps in healthcare access. The Ministry of Health introduced an “AI Physician” virtual doctor system and partnered with Google to create a smart health coach through the Sehhaty mobile app.

Robotic surgery is expanding rapidly across the Kingdom. Hospitals are using Da Vinci, ROSA, and CORI robotic systems for heart procedures, organ transplants, tumor removal, and brain operations. King Faisal Specialist Hospital performed the world’s first fully robotic heart and liver transplants and completed seven cardiac procedures in a single robotic surgery.

For the 2025 Hajj season, Saudi Arabia deployed the “i-Selfie” system that measures vital signs and heart rhythms without contact using AI algorithms. The technology reduced patient assessment time by 70%, from seven minutes to two minutes.

Why does it matter?

This represents one of the world’s largest national investments in AI-powered healthcare. Saudi Arabia is positioning itself as a regional leader in medical technology, directly competing with established healthcare hubs like Singapore and the UAE.

The scale of investment signals serious intent beyond oil dependency. Healthcare technology exports could become a major revenue source as the Kingdom develops expertise in areas like robotic surgery and AI diagnostics that other countries need.

The Hajj pilgrimage creates a unique testing ground for mass healthcare technology deployment. Systems that work for millions of pilgrims in high-density environments could be exported to other countries facing similar challenges during emergencies or large gatherings.

Patient outcomes are already improving measurably. Robotic surgeries allow procedures through incisions as small as one centimeter compared to traditional cuts exceeding 10 centimeters, reducing pain and recovery time significantly.

The context

Saudi Arabia’s healthcare push is part of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s Vision 2030 plan to diversify the economy away from oil. The Kingdom faces pressure to create jobs for a young population while building new industries for the post-oil era.

The timing aligns with global healthcare technology adoption accelerated by COVID-19. Countries worldwide are investing heavily in digital health infrastructure, creating competition for talent and technology partnerships.

Several Saudi hospitals now rank globally for innovation. King Faisal Specialist Hospital ranked 12th worldwide among academic healthcare institutions in 2026, while the Ministry of National Guard Health Affairs earned recognition as Saudi Arabia’s top smart hospital for five consecutive years.

The Kingdom’s approach differs from other Gulf states by focusing on local development rather than just importing technology. The Biotech Accelerator partnership with BioLabs aims to build domestic healthcare companies, while the EYENAI project for diabetic retinopathy detection won gold at the 2025 Saudi Customer Experience Awards.

Success could make Saudi Arabia a major healthcare destination for the Middle East and Africa regions, potentially generating billions in medical tourism revenue while reducing the Kingdom’s current reliance on sending patients abroad for complex procedures.

The post Saudi Arabia builds AI-powered healthcare system with robotic surgery and virtual hospitals appeared first on DH Arab.

The collaboration expands access to virtual care by meeting customers where they already shop for everyday needs. For uninsured or underinsured Americans, this represents a more convenient and potentially affordable way to receive medical care without visiting a traditional doctor’s office.

How does it work?

Walmart customers can access Teladoc Health’s services for a flat cash-pay rate of $89 per visit through the Better Care Services platform. The offering includes three main service areas:

• 24/7 urgent care: Connect with a provider within minutes for common conditions like sinus infections, pink eye, UTIs, and cold and flu symptoms
• Dermatology: Upload photos of skin issues for review by board-certified dermatologists within 24 hours, covering rashes, sunburns, skin infections, and moles
• Nutrition services: Work one-on-one with registered dietitians for personalized nutrition guides and support for diabetes, weight management, and prenatal nutrition

If prescriptions are needed, they can be sent to any pharmacy, including Walmart locations. Walmart+ members get free delivery, while same-day delivery in as fast as one hour is available at many locations.

Why does it matter?

This partnership addresses a significant gap in healthcare access for millions of Americans. The collaboration makes virtual care more accessible by integrating it into a platform customers already use and trust for their everyday needs.

The $89 flat rate provides price transparency that traditional healthcare often lacks. For people without insurance or those with high-deductible plans, this predictable pricing model removes the uncertainty about healthcare costs that often prevents people from seeking care.

The integration also reflects the growing trend of retail healthcare, where traditional retailers expand into health services to meet customer demand for convenience and affordability.

The context

This partnership represents Teladoc Health’s continued expansion into retail partnerships as virtual care becomes more mainstream. The company previously launched its BetterHelp mental health services on Walmart’s platform in January, showing a systematic approach to building the relationship.

The move comes as virtual care adoption has stabilized after rapid growth during the pandemic. Healthcare companies are now focusing on making virtual services more accessible and integrated into people’s daily routines rather than positioning them as emergency alternatives to in-person care.

For Walmart, this partnership builds on its broader healthcare strategy, which includes primary care clinics and pharmacy services. The retailer is positioning itself as a one-stop destination for health needs, competing with other retail giants like Amazon and CVS who have made similar moves into healthcare services.

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The program comes as the United States approaches its semiquicentennial celebration in 2026. Disney plans to roll out the experiences gradually over the next two years, building toward the major anniversary milestone.

How does it work?

Disney Celebrates America includes several components across multiple parks:

• New patriotic shows and parades featuring American historical themes
• Special dining experiences with American cuisine
• Historical exhibits and interactive displays
• Limited-time merchandise celebrating American heritage
• Educational programs for school groups and families

The experiences will appear at Walt Disney World, Disneyland, and other Disney properties. Some attractions will be permanent additions, while others are temporary installations for the anniversary period.

Why does it matter?

The program shows Disney’s continued strategy of tying its entertainment offerings to major cultural moments and holidays. Patriotic content has historically performed well for Disney, particularly during significant national anniversaries.

For Disney’s business, the program provides new reasons for visitors to return to parks and potentially extends visit lengths. The company has been focusing on premium experiences and special events as ways to increase revenue per guest.

The context

America’s 250th anniversary in 2026 represents a major tourism opportunity for destinations across the country. Cities, states, and attractions are all developing special programming to capitalize on expected increased interest in American history and patriotic celebrations.

Disney has a long history of patriotic content, from the Hall of Presidents at Magic Kingdom to various Fourth of July celebrations. The company successfully created similar anniversary programming for past milestones, including the nation’s bicentennial in 1976.

The announcement also comes as Disney continues to recover from pandemic-related attendance impacts and seeks new ways to differentiate its park offerings from competitors like Universal Studios and regional theme parks.

The post Disney launches patriotic experience program ahead of America’s 250th birthday appeared first on DH Arab.

The study will enroll 100 adults starting GLP-1 treatment and split them into two groups. One group gets standard care, while the other uses Galaxy Watch8 to monitor body composition, track activity, and receive personalized exercise guidance. Researchers will use medical-grade DXA scans to measure actual changes in muscle and fat.

How does it work?

The Galaxy Watch8 uses Samsung’s BioActive Sensor to measure body composition through bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA). This technology sends small electrical currents through the body to estimate muscle mass, body fat, and other metrics.

Participants in the intervention group will:

• Wear the Galaxy Watch continuously to monitor body composition changes
• Track physical activity and heart rate data
• Receive personalized exercise recommendations through Samsung Health
• Have their progress compared against clinical-grade DXA scans

Dr. Melissa Putman from MGH’s Diabetes Research Center is leading the study. The research aims to determine whether real-time data from a consumer wearable can help patients maintain muscle mass better than standard care alone.

Why does it matter?

GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and Wegovy have exploded in popularity, with nearly one in five US adults reporting they’ve used them. But muscle loss is a common side effect that can create serious problems down the line.

“Many GLP-1 patients struggle with muscle mass loss, a common side effect that can cause an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and a drop in basal metabolic rate, which can lead to future weight regain,” Dr. Putman said.

When people lose muscle mass, their metabolism slows down. This makes it easier to regain weight after stopping the medication. Muscle loss also increases cardiovascular disease risk and can affect overall health and mobility as people age.

The context

This study reflects growing concerns about GLP-1 side effects as millions of people start using these drugs. While the medications are effective for weight loss, the medical community is still learning how to optimize their use and minimize negative effects.

Samsung has been expanding its health partnerships with major medical institutions. Recent collaborations include:

• Research on early detection of fainting episodes with Chung-Ang University
• Sleep apnea detection work with Stanford Medicine
• Previous diabetes research with Mass General on advanced glycation end products

The tech giant is positioning its wearables as medical tools rather than just fitness trackers. This study could provide validation for using consumer devices to monitor serious health conditions, potentially opening new markets for Samsung while addressing real medical needs.

“This collaboration with MGH focuses on addressing real-world health challenges that patients face during GLP-1RA therapy, specifically managing muscle loss and building healthy habits,” said Jongmin Choi, head of Samsung’s Health R&D group.

The post Samsung Galaxy Watch to help monitor muscle loss in GLP-1 users appeared first on DH Arab.

Pre-orders opened this week for the dual-wavelength device, which works with the Ultrahuman Ring PRO or Ring AIR. Instead of guessing what treatment you need, Photon pulls your biometric data to suggest whether to focus on muscle recovery, skin health, or relaxation routines. It also tells you how long each session should last and the best time of day to use it.

How does it work?

Photon runs two wavelengths at once through all 12 LEDs. The 660nm red light targets skin appearance and collagen production, while 850nm near-infrared penetrates deeper for muscle recovery benefits.

The device weighs about 600 grams and charges via USB-C. Each charge powers six treatment sessions before you need to plug it in again. A 10-minute auto-shutoff prevents overuse.

The companion app organizes treatments around four main goals:

• Recovery for post-workout muscle care
• Skin health for appearance benefits
• Sleep preparation for wind-down routines
• General wellness for overall maintenance

Each session includes educational content explaining the science behind the treatment. The app rotates focus areas throughout the week based on your ring’s data readings.

Why does it matter?

Red light therapy has decades of research supporting its benefits, but most devices use a one-size-fits-all approach. Photon represents a shift toward personalized wellness tech that adapts to individual biomarkers.

At $249, the device costs significantly less than premium red light therapy panels that typically range from $549 to $1,000. This pricing makes the technology more accessible while adding smart features that expensive competitors lack.

Ultrahuman CEO Mohit Kumar says personalization has been the missing piece in red light therapy adoption. “The science is solid, but people struggle to make it a consistent habit without guidance,” he explains.

The context

The launch fits into a broader trend of wellness devices getting smarter by connecting to other health data sources. Companies like Oura, Whoop, and Apple have shown that consumers want devices that learn from their patterns rather than providing generic recommendations.

Red light therapy itself has gained mainstream attention as professional athletes and wellness influencers promote its recovery benefits. The therapy uses specific wavelengths of light to stimulate cellular processes that may reduce inflammation and promote healing.

Deliveries are expected starting in June 2026. Ring PRO and Ring AIR users get the Photon Protocols PowerPlug feature included free with their purchase.

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The shift comes through C37, a new platform from Dubai Healthcare City (DHCC) that works like a medical coworking space. Doctors get access to fully equipped clinics, administrative support, and all the regulatory compliance they need to practice legally in Dubai.

How does it work?

C37 operates on a membership model that handles the operational side of running a medical practice. Doctors pay for access and get a complete package of services:

• Ready-to-use clinical facilities
• Administrative and nursing staff
• Patient scheduling and management systems
• Billing and payment collection
• IT infrastructure and medical records
• Medical malpractice insurance
• Visa and licensing support
• Legal, banking, and marketing services

According to Dr. Mohamed Elbaz, Medical Director of C37, the platform lets doctors choose daily, weekly, or monthly arrangements based on their schedules and patient demand. “Healthcare delivery has traditionally been centered around fixed hospitals and clinics, but there is a growing need for more flexible models that can connect patients with specialized expertise more efficiently,” he said.

The system works for both international specialists flying in for consultations and UAE-based doctors who want to practice part-time without the overhead of running their own clinic.

Why does it matter?

This model addresses two major problems in healthcare: access to specialists and the barriers doctors face when trying to practice internationally.

For patients, it means access to world-class medical expertise without traveling abroad. Someone in Dubai seeking a second opinion or specialized treatment can now see internationally recognized experts locally. The platform also helps maintain continuity of care for patients whose doctors practice across multiple countries.

For doctors, C37 removes the biggest obstacles to international practice:

• Complex licensing procedures
• Visa applications and legal requirements
• Staff hiring and training
• Facility setup and maintenance
• Billing and insurance management

“Platforms like C37 help bring international expertise closer to patients in the UAE and the wider region, reducing the need to travel overseas for specialist consultations or medical opinions,” Dr. Elbaz explained.

The context

Dubai’s flexible medical workspace reflects broader changes in global healthcare delivery. Medical systems worldwide are moving toward more patient-centered, accessible models that can respond quickly to demand.

The timing is significant for Dubai’s healthcare ambitions. The emirate has invested heavily in becoming a regional medical hub, competing with destinations like Singapore and Thailand for medical tourism. C37 gives Dubai a competitive edge by making it easier to attract top international talent without requiring long-term commitments.

This trend toward “on-demand” healthcare isn’t unique to Dubai. Similar models are emerging globally as healthcare systems look for ways to improve access while controlling costs. The difference is Dubai’s regulatory environment, which allows for this kind of flexible practice while maintaining clinical standards.

Dr. Elbaz emphasized that platforms like C37 aren’t meant to replace traditional hospitals or clinics. “Flexible medical workspaces can help doctors practice more efficiently, support patient access to specialized care and allow healthcare systems to respond more quickly to changing demand, while maintaining the standards required in a clinical setting,” he said.

The model also supports Dubai’s broader economic strategy. By making it easier for international professionals to work in the emirate, even temporarily, Dubai strengthens its position as a global business hub while building expertise in high-value sectors like healthcare.

The post International doctors can now practice in Dubai without opening their own clinics appeared first on DH Arab.

The new ring includes blood pressure monitoring, breathing pattern analysis, and integration with medical records. Oura is positioning the device as a shift from reactive health tracking to proactive health management, with features designed to catch potential issues before they become serious problems.

What’s new?

The Oura Ring 5 is dramatically smaller than previous versions while packing more sensors into the titanium body. Key hardware improvements include:

• 40% size reduction compared to Ring 4
• Redesigned sensor architecture with 12 signal pathways for better accuracy across different skin tones
• Week-long battery life with optional portable charging case
• Enhanced scratch resistance and 100-meter water resistance
• New color options including redesigned Gold and Deep Rose finishes

The software updates are equally significant. Health Radar continuously monitors biometric signals to detect patterns that might indicate health issues:

• Blood Pressure Signals: Tracks nighttime blood pressure patterns to detect cardiovascular strain
• Nighttime Breathing: Monitors sleep-related breathing disturbances over 30-day periods
• Health Records: Integrates clinical data with daily biometrics for a complete health picture
• Live Activity Tracking: Real-time workout metrics with third-party heart rate monitor support

Oura also added GLP-1 medication tracking for diabetes and weight loss drugs, plus partnerships with telehealth provider Counsel Health for in-app medical consultations.

Why does it matter?

This release signals Oura’s attempt to move beyond the fitness tracker market into legitimate health monitoring. Blood pressure tracking is particularly significant because high blood pressure often shows no symptoms until serious complications develop.

The integration with medical records and telehealth services suggests Oura wants to become part of the healthcare system rather than just a consumer gadget. Dr. Ricky Bloomfield, Oura’s chief medical officer, emphasized that Health Radar helps people “see when something needs attention” before problems develop.

The size reduction addresses one of the biggest barriers to smart ring adoption. Many potential users found previous generations too bulky for daily wear, especially those with smaller fingers.

The context

Oura faces increasing competition in the smart ring space. Samsung launched its Galaxy Ring this year, and Apple continues to be rumored to be working on a ring device. The wearables market is also seeing pressure from advanced smartwatches that offer similar health monitoring features.

The company is betting that rings offer better biometric data than wrist-worn devices. Oura claims finger arteries provide pulse signals up to 100 times stronger than wrist readings, giving more accurate health measurements.

Oura’s business model depends on subscription revenue rather than just hardware sales. The company charges $5.99 monthly for its health insights service and reports that over 80% of members renew after their first year. The company is on track to surpass 5 million paid subscribers this quarter.

The Ring 5 costs $399 for basic finishes and $499 for premium colors. The optional charging case adds $99. Pre-orders start today with shipping beginning June 4, 2026. The new health features will roll out gradually, starting with U.S. users in June.

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