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Threat Actors Are Moving Faster Than Ever: SonicWall Warns SMBs and Highlights the Importance of Not Fighting Alone

  • 61% of the time hackers exploit new vulnerabilities within 2 days – compared to what can take the average organization 120-150* days to apply a patch
  • SonicWall detected 210,258 ‘never-before-seen’ malware variants – 637 each day
  • In APAC, Malware (-6%), intrusion attempts (-4%), and cryptojacking (-39%) are down, while IoT attacks have surged by 109%
  • Ransomware intensifies in North America (+8%) and explodes in LATAM (+259%)
  • Malware trended up 8% YoY, including a massive 92% spike in May alone
  • IoT attacks (+124%) and encrypted threats (+93%) continue to climb globally
  • Identity, cloud, and credential compromise account for 85% actionable alerts

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 26 February 2025SonicWall today released the 2025 SonicWall Annual Cyber Threat Report, revealing a continued onslaught of cyberattacks on small and mid-sized businesses (SMBs). Once exclusively targeting large enterprises, threat actors now use more efficient targeting and AI-driven attacks making it clear that SMBs and organizations of all sizes can’t fight this battle alone — relying on the expertise of a trusted Managed Service Provider (MSP) to defend at-risk revenue and protect the integrity of brands and organizations.

SMBs are facing a storm of cyber threats, as attackers leverage automation, AI, and advanced evasion techniques to evade traditional defenses. These evolving tactics make it nearly impossible for businesses to defend themselves without dedicated cybersecurity expertise. As attack surfaces expand and the time to exploit vulnerabilities shrinks, SMBs must prioritize proactive security measures.

“Threat actors are moving at an unprecedented pace, exploiting new vulnerabilities within days, while we’re observing that it takes some organizations 120 to 150 days to apply a critical patch,” said President and CEO Bob VanKirk. “Now more than ever, businesses need the expertise of an MSP/MSSP backed by with real-time threat monitoring and SOC capabilities. Legacy security solutions are no longer enough, businesses must adopt a new mindset to stay ahead of modern cyber threats.”

The report provides insight, in particular for SMBs, and highlights why businesses of all sizes shouldn’t go it alone in the fight against cybercrime. SonicWall is aggressively growing our network of managed service providers to defend SMBs against the ever-evolving threat actors.

“With the increasing speed and sophistication of cyber threats, we needed a partner that could provide real-time threat intelligence and proactive security,” said Nick Sabatini, Vice President of Managed Services at Ubeo. “Ubeo is focused on best-in-class partners that bring innovation and flexibility to meet our customers’ needs, and SonicWall’s SOC services allow us to deliver 24/7 monitoring and rapid threat response, ensuring our customers stay protected without the burden of managing security alone. Their expertise and advanced security solutions empower us to protect businesses against today’s relentless cyberattacks. We’ve seen firsthand how SonicWall’s expanded portfolio and global security reach have helped us better protect our clients and respond to the increasingly sophisticated threat landscape.”

Cyber Threats Surge, Businesses at Risk

SonicWall intelligence found that on average, companies were under critical attack – the type of attack most likely to deplete business resources – for 68 days. Ransomware continues to rise, increasing 8% in North America and surging 259% in Latin America. Malware spiked 8% year-over-year, while IoT attacks jumped 124% and encrypted threats climbed 93%.

The 2025 SonicWall Mid-Year Cyber Threat Report provides insight on a range of threats, including:

  • AI Automation Tools Lower Barrier for Entry While Increasing Attack Complexity – Server-Side Request Forgery (SSRF) attacks became a critical cybersecurity concern in 2024, marked by a dramatic 452% increase compared to 2023.
  • Staggering Spike in Business Email Compromise (BEC) Attacks – Nearly one-third of all reported cyber events were BEC attacks, up dramatically from only 9% in 2023.
  • The Escalation of Ransomware Attacks in 2024 – Ransomware was far and away the biggest threat to the healthcare industry, utilized in 95% of all breaches in this sector.
  • Living Off the Land Binaries (LOLBins): No Laughing Matter – LOLBins are integral to fileless malware campaigns, where attackers utilize native system tools to avoid leaving traditional artifacts, thus evading detection by conventional signature-based solutions.
  • Cyber threats in APAC are shifting: Malware (-6%), intrusion attempts (-4%), and cryptojacking (-39%) are down, while IoT attacks have surged by 109%.Malware remains a major concern, with APAC accounting for nearly 20% of global malware attacks.

“The data in this year’s threat report underscores a disturbing reality: threat actors are exploiting vulnerabilities at lightning speed, while organizations take far too long to respond,” said SonicWall Executive Director of Threat Research Douglas McKee. “Our findings indicate that organizations struggle to keep their businesses safe from the ever-present cyber threats, and the data that we gather paints a clear picture of the growing challenges they face. From ransomware surges to the rapid rise in IoT and encrypted threats, businesses are increasingly at risk.”

“Threat actors are moving faster than ever, exploiting vulnerabilities with unprecedented speed. As outlined in the 2025 SonicWall Cyber Threat Report, to stay ahead, cybersecurity professionals must not only match but surpass this pace, and they will need help to do it. Leveraging real-time threat intelligence, automation, and proactive defense strategies will help counteract emerging threats before they escalate,” said SonicWall Vice President of Sales, APJ Debasish Mukherjee.

Patented RTDMI Discovered ‘Never-Before-Seen’ Malware Variants

SonicWall’s patented Real-Time Deep Memory InspectionTM (RTDMITM) technology identified a total of 210,258 ‘never-before-seen’ malware variants. The threat landscape remains complex, with over 630 strains of new variants discovered each day.

To learn more about SonicWall and get the complete 2025 SonicWall Mid-Year Cyber Threat Report, please visit www.sonicwall.com/threat-report.

*As cited in Security Intelligence: How Do You Measure the Success of Your Patch Management Efforts?Hashtag: #SonicWall

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About SonicWall

is a cybersecurity forerunner with more than 30 years of expertise and is recognized as the leading partner-first company. With the ability to build, scale and manage security across the cloud, hybrid and traditional environments in real-time, SonicWall provides seamless protection against the most evasive cyberattacks across endless exposure points for increasingly remote, mobile and cloud-enabled users. With its own threat research center, SonicWall can quickly and economically provide purpose-built security solutions to enable any organization—enterprise, government agencies and SMBs—around the world. For more information, visit or follow us on , , and .

Midea Unveils the TasteXpress™ Range Series: Flavor, Capacity, Speed for Modern Kitchens

LAS VEGAS, Feb. 26, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Midea, a global leader in home appliances, is excited to announce the launch of its highly anticipated TasteXpress™ Range Series at the 2025 Kitchen and Bath Industry Show (KBIS). Designed to meet the needs of busy families and home chefs, the TasteXpress™ series offers an innovative blend of speed, capacity, and precision cooking, making it the perfect addition to today’s modern kitchen.


The TasteXpress™ range series embodies Midea’s commitment to providing surprisingly friendly solutions for consumers by combining the most advanced technology. Featuring cutting-edge innovations like XpressFry technology and MegaMax capacity, the TasteXpress™ range series deliver outstanding cooking performance, allowing users to prepare meals quickly without sacrificing taste or quality. Whether you’re air frying crispy snacks, baking a roast, or simmering a stew, the TasteXpress™ range series is built to meet the demands of the busiest kitchens.

XpressFry Technology for Crispy, yet Faster Cooking

One of the standout features of the TasteXpress™ Range Series is the incorporation of Midea’s proprietary XpressFry technology – unique feature designed to enhance cooking speed while maintaining exceptional food quality. The XpressFry system utilizes a powerful air fry function, which distributes heat evenly throughout the oven, ensuring that your meals cook faster and more uniformly than traditional methods. Convection technology further supports even cooking, making your food crisp and perfectly cooked in less time.

This advanced technology is ideal for preparing crispy, golden meals like fries, chicken wings, and roasted vegetables in less time. XpressFry reduces cooking time by evenly wrapping food with rapid heat from every direction, achieving a crispy, perfectly cooked result in a fraction of the time. With the TasteXpress™ Range, home cooks can enjoy restaurant-quality meals without the lengthy wait times typically associated with traditional cooking methods.

MegaMax Capacity for Cooking More at Once

The TasteXpress™ Range Series is designed with the modern home chef in mind. With MegaMax capacity, the series provides an expansive cooking space that allows you to prepare large batches of food all at once. Whether you’re preparing a family-sized meal, hosting a dinner party, or batch cooking for the week, the increased oven capacity ensures that you can cook more, saving time and energy.

With 6.3 cubic feet of space in select models (New electric 5-element FSR, stainless, MER30S5AST), the TasteXpress™ Range Series can accommodate everything from multiple casserole dishes to large roasts and pizzas, making it easier than ever to cook for larger gatherings. The 5-element cooktop in select models further enhances the range’s capacity, providing ample space to cook multiple dishes simultaneously, whether you’re boiling, sautéing, or simmering.

XpressClean for Effortless Cleanliness That Lasts

Midea understands that cleaning up after a busy cooking session can often feel like a chore, so the TasteXpress™ Range Series, featuring XpressClean technology, allows you to start cleaning with just a simple touch. The series features two distinct cleaning modes: Hi-Temp Self-Clean and Steam Clean, both designed to simplify the cleaning process and reduce the time spent scrubbing.

With Hi-Temp Self-Clean, the oven reaches high temperatures to burn away grease and food residue, turning it into ash that can be easily wiped away. This thorough cleaning feature is perfect for deep cleaning or for ovens that have not been cleaned for a while and have stubborn grease or burnt-on residue. Steam Clean, on the other hand, is ideal for everyday light stains and grease, as steam helps dissolve grease, making it easy to wipe away the residue in just a single step. This function simplifies routine cleaning, ensuring your oven stays pristine without the need for harsh chemicals or labor-intensive scrubbing.

These cleaning features make the TasteXpress™ Range Series not only a high-performance cooking appliance but also an easy-to-maintain addition to your kitchen.

Smart Connectivity for Modern Living

As part of Midea’s ongoing efforts to bring the latest technology to home kitchens, the TasteXpress™ Range Series is equipped with smart connectivity, allowing users to control the oven remotely using their smartphone or voice assistant. Compatible with both Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, the series allows users to start preheating the oven, adjust cooking settings, and receive notifications directly from their mobile devices.

Smart features like these provide added convenience for those with busy lifestyles, ensuring that your oven is always ready when you need it. Whether you’re rushing home from work or finishing up other tasks around the house, the smart functionality of the TasteXpress™ series keeps you in control of your cooking.

Energy-Efficient Design for a Greener Kitchen

The TasteXpress™ Range Series is Energy Star-certified, meaning it meets the highest energy efficiency standards while delivering top-tier cooking performance. This eco-friendly design helps consumers save on utility bills and reduces their environmental footprint.

In addition to its Energy Star certification, the combination of MegaMax capacity and XpressFry technology ensures that meals cook quickly, further reducing overall energy consumption. With this advanced design, users can enjoy fast, efficient cooking without compromising on sustainability.

Available in Summer 2025

The Midea TasteXpress™ Range Series will be available for purchase in Summer 2025, with a variety of models, including both electric and gas options. This innovative range series offers a premium solution for those looking to upgrade their kitchen with cutting-edge technology and superior cooking performance.

The series will be available in a sleek stainless steel finish, designed to complement any kitchen décor. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a busy family looking for a reliable, high-performance range, the TasteXpress™ series has everything you need to elevate your cooking experience.

Key Features:

  • MegaMax capacity (up to 6.3 cu. ft.) for cooking more at once.
  • XpressFry technology for faster, more even cooking with a crispy finish.
  • XpressClean technology with Hi-Temp Self-Clean and Steam Clean for effortless maintenance.
  • Smart connectivity with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant compatibility for remote control and notifications.
  • Energy Star certification for maximum energy efficiency.

About Midea Group

Midea Group is a global technology leader specializing in five key business areas: Smart Home, Industrial and Building Technologies, Robotics and Automation, Electro-Mechanical, and Digital Innovation. As one of over 10 brands within Midea Group’s smart home appliance business, Midea has established itself as a prominent force in the industry. Founded in 1968, Midea Group is ranked #277 on the 2024 Fortune Global 500 with 190,000+ employees worldwide.

Visit: www.midea-group.com

For Media Inquiries:

Contact:
Lokman Zhou
lokman.zhou@midea.com
Jessie Wang
wangrong15@midea.com

Odoo Wrapped Up Successful Business Show with Strong Philippine Growth

MANILA, Philippines, Feb. 26, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Business management software Odoo wrapped up successful Business Show themed “Explore Scalable Tech Solutions for SME Growth” at Seda Vertis North with gold partner Toolkit Inc. and customer Auro Chocolate.

Greeting over 1700 industry pioneers, Odoo celebrated the €500 million transaction led by CapitalG and Sequoia Capital and 423.5% subscription growth in the Philippines while showcasing its latest product version, Odoo 18.

Odoo received 1700 industry pioneers at Business Show 2025 in Metro Manila.
Odoo received 1700 industry pioneers at Business Show 2025 in Metro Manila.

Live Product Showcase

Guests in attendance witnessed Odoo’s capacity to centralize sales, projects, inventory, and more business management online in real-time into one platform, as well as flexibility in low-code customizations for different sectors to optimize operational efficiency in the modern workplace.

Scalable and comprehensive, Odoo powers through every stage of its customers’ business expansion, supporting each operation with one of the thousands of official and third-party apps.

Implementation Partner Panel & Customer Testimonial

“You’re embracing a platform that grows with you, adapts to your needs, and keeps you ahead,” says Bem, CTO at Toolkit Inc. “The question isn’t whether you can afford to invest in Odoo—it’s whether you can afford not to. Let’s build the future of your business, together.”

Toolkit, the Odoo gold partner, stressed the importance ERP tools have on business growth and offered the best implementation practice for local businesses during the partner panel.

The partner suggested that SMEs define clear objectives beforehand to ensure a successful and agile implementation. “To expand into new markets, focus on tools like Odoo eCommerce and Accounting to smoothly build your multi-language and multi-currency needs and effortlessly scale your business with one app at a time,” they concluded. The speakers then shared their experiences introducing AI, IoT, and automated features through Odoo to their customers to stay competitive.

Off stage, one of the hosts’ customers, Auro Chocolate, shared its experiences utilizing Odoo for integrated inventory and finance management over its famed tree-to-bar chocolate.

View Odoo’s upcoming event schedule to connect with your local IT service providers and industry leaders, or schedule an online call with Odoo to learn more about its services in the Philippines.

About Odoo

With 70+ official apps and 57k+ third-party apps, Odoo manages businesses’ finance, sales, inventory & manufacturing processes, human resources, marketing, team productivity, and more. The Belgian open-source service provider operates in 19 countries and regions worldwide, including the United States, Indonesia, Dubai, and Hong Kong SAR.

Odoo Showcased Scalable ERP Solution with Key Partners for SME Growth in Hong Kong

HONG KONG, Feb. 26, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Business management software Odoo wrapped up successful Business Show themed “Explore Scalable Tech Solutions for SME Growth” at the Renaissance Harbour View Hotel with strategic partner Ricoh Hong Kong, sponsoring partners Aboutknowledge, Capsuite, Zubbily, and customers BizMagnet and Cuvées. 

Greeting almost 300 industry pioneers in person, Odoo announced the €500 million transaction led by CapitalG and Sequoia Capital and showcased its latest product version, Odoo 18.

Odoo introduced the latest product version Odoo 18 at Hong Kong Business Show 2025.
Odoo introduced the latest product version Odoo 18 at Hong Kong Business Show 2025.

Live Product Showcase
Guests in attendance witnessed Odoo’s capacity to centralize sales, projects, inventory, and more business management online in real-time into one platform, as well as flexibility in low-code customizations for different sectors to optimize operational efficiency in the modern workplace.

Scalable yet no less comprehensive, Odoo powers through every stage of its customers’ business expansion, supporting each operation with one of the thousands of official and third-party apps.

Implementation Partner Panel & Customer Testimonial
“We are confident in expanding our managed IT services with the flexibility and constant upgrading of Odoo,” says Jeffrey Lo, Head of Commercial Market at Ricoh Hong Kong, on stage. “The strategic alliance with Odoo allows us to provide even more comprehensive solutions to our clients, streamlining workflows and enhancing productivity.”

During the partner panel, Odoo’s local implementers, Aboutknowledge, Capsuite, and Zubbily, pointed out common challenges local SMEs face during ERP implementations.

The partners suggested that SMEs specify requirements and features beforehand to ensure a successful and agile implementation. “This serves as the cornerstone for smart business analysis in backing sustainable business growth and streamlining decision-making with AI-driven insights,” they concluded. The speakers then shared previous experiences in connecting Odoo with SF Express, HKTVmall, and other key players to support local businesses.

BizMagnet, a government funding consultancy, narrated its customer experience. Seeking an accessible and user-friendly tool, the B2B service provider found Odoo’s subscription-based and cost-effective services, which met their requirements with a transparent pricing plan. Operating with a remote office, BizMagnet considers the online ERP optimal for data centralization and seamless project management.

Off stage, another one of Odoo’s customers, beverage distributor Cuvées shared its Odoo story over handpicked wines.

View Odoo’s upcoming event schedule to connect with your local IT service providers and industry leaders, or schedule an online call with Odoo to learn more about its services in Hong Kong.

About Odoo
With 70+ official apps and 57k+ third-party apps, Odoo manages businesses’ finance, sales, inventory & manufacturing processes, human resources, marketing, team productivity, and more. The Belgian open-source service provider operates in 19 countries and regions worldwide, including the United States, Indonesia, Dubai, and Hong Kong SAR.

2025 Global Digital Economy Conference Launches First European Forum! Join Us in Barcelona on March 4th!

BEIJING, Feb. 26, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — A news report from China.org.cn:

2025 marks the 20th anniversary of the comprehensive strategic partnership between Spain and China, as well as the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the EU and China. China and Europe continue to deepen cooperation in numerous fields including trade, economics, culture, and more, ushering in unprecedented development opportunities. Against this backdrop, the 2025 Global Digital Economy Conference will host its International Cooperation Forum series in Barcelona, Spain on March 4, marking the conference’s first European venue. Themed “Integration, Innovation, Win-Win: Co-creating a New Blueprint for the China-Europe Digital Economy,” the forum will focus on digital friendship and digital development, promoting the flourishing development of the ChinaEurope digital economy, and will showcase the broad prospects of ChinaEurope cooperation through four key highlights, injecting new vitality into the global digital economy.

Highlight 1: First European Branch Venue Expanding Global Digital Cooperation Network

The Global Digital Economy Conference, as a flagship platform promoting international exchange and cooperation in digital friendship, has successfully held four sessions since its founding in 2021, accumulating widespread influence globally. As a core participant in the conference, Beijing has actively played a leading role, having initiated the Global Digital Economy Partner Cities Cooperation Initiative with 30 international cities, promoting the construction of an open innovation network for the digital economy between global cities and within international multilateral and bilateral frameworks.

This conference enters Europe for the first time and is being held concurrently with the MWC World Mobile Congress, which will further expand the global digital economy partner network, deepening inter-connectivity and interoperability in the digital economy field between Europe, Asia, and other regions worldwide.

Highlight 2: Distinguished Guest Lineup Discussing Digital Cooperation Development

The Barcelona venue will feature a variety of activities, including the “Digital Economy International Cooperation Forum” and the “Beijing Night” enterprise exchange event. Of particular note is the participation of leaders from the Catalonia Trade & Investment Agency, the Director of the International Economic Promotion Office of the Barcelona City Government, the President of the China-Europe Digital Association, the President of GSMA Greater China, and the Chief Procurement Officer of Faurecia Automotive International, among others.

During the meeting, leaders and experts from China and Europe will engage in in-depth discussions on topics such as digital economy development trends, international cooperation experiences, digital enterprise overseas expansion, and digital technology empowerment application scenarios, jointly promoting new developments in ChinaEurope digital economy cooperation.

Highlight 3: Establishing European Overseas Service Center to Support Efficient Business Expansion Overseas

The Beijing Digital Economy Enterprise Overseas Innovation Service Base, as a landmark project in Beijing’s construction as a global digital economy benchmark city, has become a key initiative for the Beijing Municipal Bureau of Economy and Information Technology to promote international cooperation in the digital economy. During the event, strategic cooperation agreements will be signed with organizations such as the Barcelona Chamber of Commerce, exploring the establishment of the first European Overseas Service Center and further expanding the international cooperation network with Europe. The Overseas Service Base will closely connect with the Spanish government, business associations, overseas service ecosystems, and business resources, and will take the lead in building channels for demand and supply matching, collecting global orders, and attracting global digital economy enterprises to focus on and establish a presence in Beijing. This will inject continuous momentum into the high-quality development of Beijing’s digital economy.

At the forum, the first-ever introduction of typical digital economy solutions from Beijing will be launched, targeting the needs of the Spanish and European markets. The focus will be on key industry sectors such as smart energy, autonomous driving, smart logistics, cross-border e-commerce, and AI large models. Leading companies and advanced technologies in these industries will be showcased to facilitate precise matchmaking between Chinese and Spanish, as well as Chinese and European businesses, helping Beijing’s digital technology enterprises expand efficiently overseas.

The conference will also facilitate the implementation of a series of cooperation agreements. Notably, the Overseas Service Base will join the business association network with the Barcelona Chamber of Commerce, the China-Europe Digital Association, the Catalonia Association of Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises, and GSMA and the Catalonia Beijing Association. GSMA will also collaborate with the China Academy of Information and Communications Technology to finalize and sign multiple strategic cooperation agreements.

Highlight 4: Active Enterprise Participation Building China-Europe Digital Economy Exchange Bridge

In addition to the Digital Economy International Cooperation Forum, the “Beijing Night” enterprise exchange will also be a major highlight of this conference. This exchange will showcase the development achievements of Beijing’s digital economy while providing a quality platform for direct dialogue and in-depth negotiations between Chinese and foreign enterprises, promoting exchanges and cooperation in technology, markets, talent and other aspects.

The conference has already received active responses from many enterprises, with Chinese companies including Huawei, Yonyou Network, iSoftStone, China Telecom, and ZTE, and foreign companies including SEAT, Faurecia Automotive, Stefani International Exchange, ROCA, and Spanish Babylan confirming attendance. More than 150 Chinese and foreign enterprise executives are expected to attend, conducting over 20 government-enterprise connection activities.

It is worth mentioning that among the participating enterprises, there are many telecommunications companies. As a national value-added telecommunications business pilot city, since being approved to carry out pilot work in 2024, Beijing has actively helped enterprises promote Beijing’s value-added telecommunications business abroad. Through exchanges and cooperation with overseas telecommunications enterprises, it expands cooperation opportunities and achieves mutual benefits and win-win. With this Global Digital Economy Conference being held concurrently with the WMC World Mobile Congress, Chinese enterprises will also leverage platform advantages to actively conduct preliminary connections with overseas telecommunications enterprises, vigorously promote cooperation, and jointly promote the development of the global digital economy.

The Barcelona forum is hosted by the Global Digital Economy Conference Organizing Committee and organized by the Beijing Municipal Bureau of Economy and Information Technology. At that time, the conference organizing committee will also formally invite European institutions including the Catalonia Enterprise Development Bureau and Barcelona Chamber of Commerce to attend the 2025 Global Digital Economy Conference to be held in Beijing in July, to further conduct cooperation exchanges and promote ChinaEurope digital development.

Bus Overturns in Prachin Buri, Killing 18

Bus Overturns in Prachin Buri, Killing 17 and Injuring Over 40
Thai authorities investigate the accident scene (photo credit: MGR Online)

LATEST UPDATE BY AFP AT 10:49 AM

An accident occurred in Prachin Buri, Thailand, early on 26 February, when a tour bus on an educational field trip overturned while descending Khao San Tone mountain in Na Di district.

2025 MPA Awards to Honor “Wicked” Director, Key U.S. Lawmakers, and IPR Center

MPA Recognizes Chu with Creator Award, Sens. Thune and Coons and Rep. Issa with Industry Champion Awards, and IPR Center with Creative Protector Award

WASHINGTON, Feb. 26, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The Motion Picture Association today announced it will honor Jon M. Chu, director of “Wicked” and the upcoming “Wicked: For Good,” with its 2025 MPA Creator Award.

In its fourth annual Awards program, the MPA will also recognize Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.), Sen. Chris Coons (D-Del.) and Rep. Darrell Issa (R-Calif.) with 2025 Industry Champion Awards. The association will present its 2025 Creative Protector Award to Ivan Arvelo, director of the National Intellectual Property Rights Coordination Center (IPR Center).

“The MPA works to protect creativity, preserve free expression, and tell the stories of the world’s greatest storytellers – and this year’s honorees play a starring role in advancing our core mission and bringing the magic of cinema to life,” said Charles Rivkin, Chairman and CEO of the MPA. “Our MPA Award recipients represent so many fundamental facets of filmmaking: the creative minds who produce movies, the policymakers who help make production possible, and the experts who defend intellectual property – the very lifeblood of our industry. I could not be prouder to recognize these leaders and their remarkable contributions.”

The MPA is recognizing Chu, an award-winning filmmaker and groundbreaking storyteller with deep, broad and growing influence on cultures and societies worldwide. Even before “Wicked” broke box office records and drew critical acclaim last year, Chu had built an inspiring body of work, including the films “Crazy Rich Asians” and “In the Heights.” His unique ability to tell rich, authentic stories resonates with audiences everywhere.

“Creators do more than make movies and TV shows. They build communities and bridge divides in ways that entertain, educate, inspire and move audiences wherever they live, work and watch great cinema. I’m honored to be part of the global creative community, and I’m grateful to the MPA for showcasing our many contributions,” said Chu.

Thune is receiving a 2025 MPA Industry Champion Award in celebration of his longtime pragmatic leadership on policies that protect freedom for innovation, encourage competitive choice for consumers, and drive growth for the American economy. The film, television, and streaming industry continues evolving to meet audiences when, where, and how they want in no small part because of the smart policies championed by Senator Thune.

“It’s an honor to receive the Industry Champion Award from the MPA,” Thune said. “During my time in Washington, I have worked to ensure policies are put in place that encourage innovation and competitive choice for customers. I will continue to advocate for policies in the U.S. Senate that support a competitive media landscape and ensure consumers continue to benefit from this evolving industry.”

Coons is receiving a 2025 MPA Industry Champion Award in honor of his extraordinary commitment to protecting intellectual property rights. Coons understands the cultural power and economic value of the film and television industry in the U.S. and across the globe, and he has worked to protect copyright from piracy as the top Democrat on the Senate Judiciary subcommittee on Intellectual Property.

“It’s an honor to receive a 2025 MPA Industry Champion Award for pursuing strong protections of intellectual property rights in the entertainment industry,” said Coons. “I’m proud of the progress we’ve made during my tenure as Chairman of the Senate’s Intellectual Property Subcommittee, including my NO FAKES Act to protect artists, entertainers, and musicians from unauthorized AI replicas. I will continue to work with my bipartisan cosponsors to pass NO FAKES and find new ways to safeguard intellectual property rights that promote economic growth and American innovation.”

Issa, chairman of the House Judiciary subcommittee on intellectual property, is receiving a 2025 MPA Industry Champion Award for his work to strengthen innovation, safeguard creative industries, and uphold the rights of creators and businesses alike.

“We are duty bound to allow the dreamers and leaders of our great American creative economy to reach the heights of their human potential – just as we must safeguard through effective policy solutions the innovations and inventions that are their gifts to the world,” Issa said. “I thank the MPA for its shared commitment and trusted partnership as we defend the sacred rights of those who drive discovery, breakthrough, and what comes next.”

Arvelo is receiving the 2025 MPA Creative Protector Award, which honors an individual or organization whose work has been vital to combating digital piracy. The IPR Center, which coordinates the U.S. government’s response to counterfeiting and intellectual property crimes, has been a vital partner to the MPA and its anti-piracy coalition, the Alliance for Creativity and Entertainment (ACE).

“One of the IPR Center’s top priorities is combating digital piracy, which poses an existential threat to the creative community and the broader U.S. economy,” said Arvelo. “We are proud to stand with the MPA to safeguard intellectual property, and we are grateful to the association for recognizing the important work we do to protect this vital American industry.”

All 2025 honorees will attend the MPA Awards Ceremony later this year at the MPA’s global headquarters in Washington.

About The Motion Picture Association

The Motion Picture Association (MPA) serves as the leading voice and advocate of the motion picture, home video, and television industries. It works in every corner of the globe to advance the creative industry, protect its members’ content across all screens, defend the creative and artistic freedoms of storytellers, and support innovative distribution models that bring an expansion of viewing choices to audiences around the world. Its member studios are Netflix, Paramount Pictures, Prime Video & Amazon MGM Studios, Sony Pictures, Universal Studios, The Walt Disney Studios, and Warner Bros. Discovery. Charles Rivkin is Chairman and CEO.

Midea Flexify™ Pro Air Fryer Oven: Elevating Home Cooking with Cutting-Edge Technology

LAS VEGAS, Feb. 26, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Midea, a global leader in home appliances, is thrilled to unveil its latest innovation, the Midea Flexify™ Pro Air Fryer Oven, at the 2025 Kitchen and Bath Industry Show (KBIS). This next-generation kitchen appliance promises to revolutionize cooking experiences, offering advanced technology, unparalleled speed, and versatility—all in one elegant package.

The Midea Flexify™ Pro represents the latest and most advanced model in the Flexify™ series, designed to meet the evolving needs of modern home cooks. Building on the success of its predecessor, the Midea Flexify™ Classic, the Flexify™ Pro incorporates cutting-edge Graphene Heater Technology, which enables faster cooking, improved energy efficiency, and superior performance. With its sleek design and professional-grade capabilities, the Midea Flexify™ Pro Air Fryer Oven is set to become an essential addition to any kitchen.

Graphene Heater Technology for Unmatched Efficiency and Cooking Performance

At the heart of the Midea Flexify™ Pro’s innovation is Graphene Heater Technology, a breakthrough that enhances cooking efficiency. Graphene, a material known for its exceptional heat conductivity, has been integrated into the heating technology of the Flexify™ Pro. This advanced graphene technology enables heating up in just 0.2* seconds, significantly reducing preheating time and streamlining the cooking process. With no need to wait for preheating, users can quickly move on to preparing multiple dishes in succession, enhancing the overall cooking efficiency.

The graphene heating tubes generate temperatures 90% higher than conventional heating elements, allowing the oven cavity to heat up quickly and reach its optimal cooking temperature much faster. Whether preparing quick weeknight dinners, hosting family gatherings, or meal prepping for the week ahead, the Flexify™ Pro guarantees that your meals are cooked faster, with exceptional results every time.

The 500°F high-temperature grilling capability allows users to achieve the perfect sear, making it ideal for grilling meats, vegetables, and other delicacies with a tender, juicy interior and crispy exterior.

 (*All data are from Midea Internal Lab.)

Versatility with 11 Cooking Functions

The Midea Flexify™ Pro Air Fryer Oven is equipped with 11 versatile cooking functions, making it a true all-in-one kitchen companion. Whether you want to air fry, bake, broil, grill, roast, or dehydrate, this oven does it all. The Flexify™ Pro’s multifunctional design ensures that home cooks can prepare a wide range of dishes, from healthy air-fried snacks to gourmet meals, all with one appliance.

The 11 cooking functions include:

  1. Air Fry – Fry foods with little to no oil for a healthier option.
  2. Bake – Perfect for baking cakes, breads, casseroles, and more.
  3. Broil – Ideal for achieving a crisp, golden-brown finish on meats and vegetables.
  4. Grill  – Enjoy grilled meals without the need for an outdoor grill, with the ability to reach up to 500°F for ultra-high-temperature searing.
  5. Roast – Perfect for roasting meats, poultry, and vegetables.
  6. Reheat – Gently reheat leftovers without compromising flavor or texture.
  7. Slow Cook – Ideal for preparing tender, slow-cooked meals like stews and soups.
  8. Dehydrate – Preserve fruits, vegetables, and homemade snacks with ease.
  9. Pizza – Create a crispy, restaurant-quality pizza in the comfort of your home.
  10. Toast – Achieve perfectly toasted bread, bagels, and more.
  11. Warm – Keep your food at the perfect temperature until ready to serve.

With its versatile functions, the Flexify™ Pro eliminates the need for multiple kitchen gadgets, streamlining the cooking process and making it easier for users to create their favorite meals with minimal effort.

Elegant Design with User-Friendly Features

The Midea Flexify™ Pro Air Fryer Oven not only offers exceptional performance but also boasts an elegant and modern design. The premium stainless steel exterior, combined with a sleek digital control panel, complements any kitchen décor while offering intuitive usability. The 25L cooking capacity provides ample space to prepare meals for the entire family, making it perfect for everyday cooking, entertaining, and meal prepping.

The Flexify™ Pro is designed with ease of use in mind. The integrated digital control panel offers clear, easy-to-read settings, while the premium enamel interior ensures effortless cleaning after every use. The smooth, non-stick surface prevents grease and food residue from sticking, reducing the time spent on maintenance and ensuring that the appliance remains in top condition.

Perfect for Modern Kitchens and Active Lifestyles

With its combination of speed, versatility, and efficiency, the Midea Flexify™ Pro is an ideal choice for busy families, home cooks, and anyone looking to simplify their kitchen routine. The 25L capacity is perfect for preparing family-sized meals, while the 11-in-1 functionality ensures that the oven can handle all types of cooking tasks. Whether you’re air frying crispy snacks, roasting meats, baking pizzas, or reheating leftovers, the Flexify™ Pro can do it all—quickly and efficiently.

The compact design of the Flexify™ Pro ensures that it fits seamlessly into any kitchen, while the sleek stainless-steel finish adds a touch of sophistication. Whether you’re preparing a casual weeknight dinner or hosting a holiday feast, the Flexify™ Pro offers the flexibility and performance to handle it all.

Coming Soon in Fall 2025

The Midea Flexify™ Pro Air Fryer Oven will be available for purchase in Fall 2025 for $219. With its state-of-the-art technology, multifunctional design, and sleek, modern aesthetic, the Flexify™ Pro is set to become the go-to appliance for anyone looking to elevate their cooking experience.

Midea continues to innovate with appliances that not only meet the needs of today’s home cooks but also provide solutions that improve everyday life. With the Flexify™ Pro, Midea brings professional-level cooking to your kitchen, making it easier than ever to create delicious, perfectly cooked meals in less time.

For more information about the Midea Flexify™ Pro Air Fryer Oven and other products of the Flexify™ series, visit https://www.midea.com/us/small-kitchen-appliances/toaster-ovens or attend the KBIS 2025 exhibition for an exclusive first look at this groundbreaking product.

About Midea Group

Midea Group is a global technology leader specializing in five key business areas: Smart Home, Industrial and Building Technologies, Robotics and Automation, Electro-Mechanical, and Digital Innovation. As one of over 10 brands within Midea Group’s smart home appliance business, Midea has established itself as a prominent force in the industry. Founded in 1968, Midea Group is ranked #277 on the 2024 Fortune Global 500 with 190,000+ employees worldwide.

Visit: www.midea-group.com 

For Media Inquiries:

Contact:
Lokman Zhou
okman.zhou@midea.com 

Jessie Wang
wangrong15@midea.com