AI & Technology

Robo.ai Appoints Abu Dhabi Veteran Dr. Steve Griffiths to Lead AI Compression Unit

By 19Network Editorial Team · May 13, 2026 · 2 min read

Robo.ai Appoints Abu Dhabi Veteran Dr. Steve Griffiths to Lead AI Compression Unit

Dr. Steve Griffiths, formerly of Khalifa University, joins Robo.ai to lead its new AI compression unit focused on hardware-efficient models.

Robo.ai has appointed Abu Dhabi-based technology executive Dr. Steve Griffiths to lead its newly established AI Compression Business Unit. The move targets the increasing demand for hardware-efficient artificial intelligence solutions as regional industries scale up their digital infrastructure. Dr. Griffiths, who previously served as Senior Vice President for Research and Development at Khalifa University, brings extensive experience in the UAE’s technology and research sectors. His mandate includes overseeing the commercialization of AI compression technologies that allow complex large language models (LLMs) to run on smaller, less power-intensive hardware. Scaling AI for Edge Computing The compression unit will focus on reducing the computational load of AI algorithms. This technology is critical for "edge computing," where AI processes data locally on devices—such as drones, sensors, or smartphones—rather than relying on massive, centralized data centers. By shrinking the size of these models, Robo.ai aims to lower energy consumption and operational costs for enterprise clients. The appointment coincides with the UAE's broader push to become a global hub for AI development.…