Artificial Intelligence
IBM and WWF-Germany to Build New AI Solution to Support Conservation of Keystone Species
ARMONK, N.Y., Aug. 12, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Today, IBM (NYSE: IBM) and the World Wide Fund For Nature – Germany (WWF) announced they will work together to explore developing a new solution to support the monitoring of keystone species, starting with the critically endangered African forest elephant.
Combining IBM’s expertise in sustainability and technology with WWF’s extensive experience in wildlife conservation, the new solution will be designed to utilize AI-powered visual inspection to enhance elephant tracking, supporting the accurate identification of individual elephants from camera trap photos. The goal of this solution is to help support key conservation efforts of African forest elephants, which have been shown to increase carbon storage in their forest habitats .
In the future, this technology may also be used by organizations to assess the financial value of nature’s contributions to people (NCP) provided by African forest elephants, such as carbon sequestration ‘services’, recognizing the important role they play in maintaining healthy ecosystems.
The African forest elephant has experienced an over 80% decrease in their populations in recent years due to habitat loss and poaching in the Congo Basin. As businesses work to address climate change, supporting nature restoration can play a critical role in reducing carbon emissions in the atmosphere.
By harnessing the power of technology to track and value natural capital, organizations can unlock new opportunities to support climate change mitigation efforts, while also identifying new sustainable finance investments.
“At IBM, we strive to make a lasting, positive impact on the world in business, our environment, and the communities in which we work and live. Our collaboration with WWF marks a significant step forward in this effort. By combining our expertise in technology and sustainability with WWF’s conservation expertise, we aim to leverage the power of technology to create a more sustainable future.” – Oday Abbosh, Global Sustainability Services Leader, IBM Consulting
As part of this collaboration, IBM Consulting worked with WWF to explore opportunities for innovation, aligning WWF’s conservation initiatives with IBM’s sustainability and technology expertise. IBM’s own software, IBM Maximo Visual Inspection (MVI), will be used in this collaboration. Leveraging MVI’s AI-powered visual inspection and modeling capabilities, the solution aims to analyze images from camera traps and film to identify individual African forest elephants with greater accuracy. Currently, the use case focuses on head and tusk-related image recognition, similar to a fingerprint for humans.
“Our technology will play a crucial role in streamlining the process of identifying and accounting for the individual elephants. This is an exciting new use of IBM software, which in combination with our consulting services and WWF’s deep knowledge of the natural world can help create new ways to accelerate organizations’ sustainability efforts.” – Kendra Dekeyrel, VP of ESG and Asset Management at IBM
In addition, the two organizations aim to leverage IBM Environmental Intelligence to detect above-ground biomass and vegetation levels in specific areas where the elephants are present. This will enable more accurate predictions of the elephants’ future locations to better quantify the NCP services they provide. Ultimately,this will help the process of quantifying and tokenizing the value of carbon services provided by the African forest elephant, providing organizations with insights they can use to further drive sustainability efforts.
Harnessing the power of natural capital for sustainability
IBM and WWF are committed to exploring innovative products and services to help organizations harness natural capital to accelerate their sustainability progress.
The concept of natural capital refers to the world’s stocks of natural assets, including geology, soil, air, water, and all wildlife. These natural assets provide a range of ecosystem services and NCP, which are the direct and indirect ways nature contributes to human well-being.
For instance, a single African forest elephant, roaming freely in its natural habitat, can increase the net carbon capture capacity of the forest by almost 250 acres. This is equivalent to removing from the atmosphere a year’s worth of emissions from 2,047 cars. According to the International Monetary Fund (IMF), this can translate into a dollar value of up to $1.75 million per elephant, considering the carbon sequestration and other ecosystem services it provides.
“Counting African forest elephants is both difficult and costly. The logistics are complex and the resulting population numbers are not precise. Being able to identify individual elephants from camera trap images with the help of AI has the potential to be a game-changer. With AI, we will be able to monitor individual animals in space and time, giving us more robust and detailed population estimates and allowing for performance-based conservation payments, such as wildlife credits. The spatial data will also show us where these elephants choose to move – thus enabling us to protect these wildlife corridors.” – Dr. Thomas Breuer, WWF Germany – African Forest Elephant Coordinator
ABOUT IBM IBM is a leading provider of global hybrid cloud and AI, and consulting expertise. We help clients in more than 175 countries capitalize on insights from their data, streamline business processes, reduce costs and gain the competitive edge in their industries. More than 4,000 government and corporate entities in critical infrastructure areas such as financial services, telecommunications and healthcare rely on IBM’s hybrid cloud platform and Red Hat OpenShift to affect their digital transformations quickly, efficiently and securely. IBM’s breakthrough innovations in AI, quantum computing, industry-specific cloud solutions and consulting deliver open and flexible options to our clients. All of this is backed by IBM’s legendary commitment to trust, transparency, responsibility, inclusivity and service. Visit www.ibm.com for more information.
Media Contact:Lily O’[email protected]
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Artificial Intelligence
World’s 1st Flashlight Experience Store Kicks Off in Las Vegas
LAS VEGAS, Sept. 15, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Olight, a brand committed to becoming a global leader in mid-to-high-end flashlights, opened the world’s first flashlight experience store at Fashion Show Las Vegas. On the same day, it hosted a major new product launch event and a fan festival for its loyal customers.
A Retail Revolution
The store adopts an advanced digital retail model that seamlessly integrates online and offline channels. Leveraging cloud computing, big data, IoT, and other cutting-edge technologies, Olight has created a unified system for warehousing, logistics, supply chain management, and retail. This enhances operational efficiency and allows consumers to order online and pick up in-store, offering a more convenient and efficient shopping experience.
“Olight has consistently focused on the U.S. market and achieved outstanding results online. We want our first experience store to not only showcase our products but also serve as a bridge between the online and offline, connecting our brand with our customers,” said Mavis Xiao, CMO of Olight.
New Product Launches
Olight unveiled five new products at the event: Arkfeld Ultra, Baton Turbo, Perun 3, Sphere, and the Arkfeld Pro (Paw Edition). The Arkfeld Ultra uses a new aluminum material, making it one of the toughest and most scratch-resistant flashlights in the world. Olight also used this material to create a special gift for each audience member.
With the release of the Arkfeld Pro (Paw Edition), Olight announced an animal charity project in 13 countries, dedicated to supporting animal welfare for at least two years. For every Arkfeld Pro (Paw Edition) sold, Olight will donate $5 to local animal charities. This initiative aims to raise funds for animal protection and increase social awareness and action.
O-Fan Day: Celebrating the Community
O-Fan Day was a fan festival where Olight expressed its appreciation to the O-Fans, whom Olight believes are the driving force behind the brand’s growth. Olight held a fan award ceremony to recognize fans who have made outstanding contributions to supporting and promoting the brand. Over 200 O-Fans attended the festival, celebrating with Olight’s management, R&D teams, and more.
The Olight Fall Event 2024 was the brand’s most important event of the year. As a brand dedicated to establishing itself as a global leader in flashlights, Olight is bold in breaking the mold. This Fall Event demonstrated Olight’s determination to redefine the flashlight industry through innovation and to promote the development of the entire industry.
About Olight:
Olight is committed to becoming a global leader in mid-to-high-end flashlights and driving the industry forward. Its diverse product range caters to various scenarios, from everyday carry to outdoor adventures, and is available across Europe, the Americas, and beyond.
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Artificial Intelligence
Global AI Summit Calls for Global Action to Guarantee AI Innovation is for the “Good of Humanity”
RIYADH, Saudi Arabia, Sept. 14, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — The Global AI Summit (GAIN) in Riyadh concluded on a high, after the summit welcomed more than 30,000 delegates from across the globe over three days. The live stream of the summit, organized by the Saudi Data and AI Authority (SDAIA), received 3.7m views.
Building on the success of previous editions, GAIN 2024 featured more than 450 speakers from 100 countries, participating in 150 sessions. It also witnessed over 25 launches and announcements, and facilitated the signing of over 80 agreements and Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs).
The summit has grown exponentially since its inception in 2020. Its growing prominence reflects the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s role in advancing AI capabilities as it positions itself as a global leader in this space.
The key output from the summit was the need for governments and policy makers to take global action to ensure that AI technology evolves for the good of humanity. Central to responsible evolution is an ethical framework and robust governance.
To support the advancement of AI ethics and governance, SDAIA announced the Riyadh Charter of Artificial Intelligence for the Islamic World in collaboration with the Islamic World Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (ICESCO). This promotes ethical AI grounded in Islamic values and principles, as well as sustainable development through international cooperation.
SDAIA has played a pivotal role in forging key collaborations to strengthen local and regional AI solutions, signing MoUs with Microsoft Arabia to develop Arabic language models, IBM for a Center of Excellence in Generative AI technologies, and NVIDIA to scale AI infrastructure across the Kingdom.
The summit also marked several major milestones. Alongside the unveiling of ALLaM, the world’s most advanced Arabic Language Model, other diverse initiatives such as the Global AI Community, the THAKAI Platform, and guidelines for addressing deepfake technology.
Furthermore, the launch of the Generative AI Center of Excellence by the Digital Cooperation Organization (DCO), the agreement to open an International Center for AI Research and Ethics (ICAIRE) as a UNESCO Category 2 Center, further underscored the impact of GAIN 2024.
The summit itself provided the platform for companies from all over the world to showcase the latest AI technologies and innovations, including AI generated avatars, AI generated artwork, and even Robotic bar staff serving beverages.
The summit closed with an inspirational speech from the Director of Saudi Arabia’s National Information Center, His Excellency Dr. Esam Alwagait, in which he thanked participants:
“Your candid perspectives have not only inspired us with the vision of what lies ahead, but have also grounded us in the realities we must face. Together, we have not only imagined the future of AI, but have also made it real by addressing the challenges and identifying the enablers needed to truly unlock its potential.”
He added:
“It has been incredibly inspiring to see the world come together here in Riyadh, united by momentum to make AI work for everyone. The commitment to collaborative action has been evident throughout the summit.”
The success of GAIN 2024 ensures that the Kingdom’s AI infrastructure will be significantly strengthened and has cemented Saudi Arabia position at the center of global AI.
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Artificial Intelligence
Akuvox S567G Smart Indoor Monitor Has Received Google Mobile Service Certification
XIAMEN, China, Sept. 13, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Akuvox has announced its S567G, an indoor monitor powered by Android™, to have received Google GMS certification. This certification ensures full support for Google Services, allowing users to download and update apps directly from the Google Play Store, including smart home control apps. It also enhances system security, protecting against malware and unauthorized access.
GMS certification involves comprehensive testing and approval by Google or a designated 3PL lab, validating security and compatibility to ensure seamless integration within the Android ecosystem. Receiving GMS certification underscores Akuvox’s leadership in the smart intercom industry. Building on its legacy as the pioneer of Android smart intercoms, Akuvox continues to elevate its Android systems with Google’s rigorous certification, offering clients flexible and sophisticated smart intercom solutions.
The S567G’s GMS certification ensures flawless operation with key Google apps like Chrome, Gmail, YouTube, Maps, and the Play Store. Edward Shi, Product Manager of the S567G, notes, “The positive feedback we’ve received from clients, even during testing, confirms that this device is transforming daily life. It’s more than just an intercom — it’s a versatile tool, even capable of functioning as a small TV. Our team has worked tirelessly to meet the highest standards, and I’m excited to see how it enhances smart living for our users.”
The S567G’s features extend beyond intercom functionality. With four HD speakers and a 1280 x 800 IPS LCD screen, it offers an exceptional audio-visual experience, redefining the concept of an indoor monitor. Whether for entertainment or smart home control, the S567G stands out as a versatile wall-mounted tablet, bringing innovation to every interaction.
About Akuvox
Akuvox is a global leading provider of smart intercom and smart home products and solutions. It is committed to unleashing the power of technology to improve people’s lives with better communication, greater security, and more convenience. Encompassing artificial intelligence, SIP, Android, cloud, security, and other advanced technologies, Akuvox continuously drives breakthrough changes in the industry and creatively delivers an unrivaled portfolio of smart intercom and smart home products and solutions. It has been deployed and used daily in more than 110 countries and regions, meeting customer needs in various vertical markets that range from residential to commercial, from healthcare to public safety.
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