JD.com, one of China’s biggest eCommerce retailers, has launched an accelerator program which will focus on the development of artificial intelligence (AI) and blockchain technologies. The AI Catapult program, which begins in March, will partner with blockchain startups to build new business, and create and test real-world applications of their technologies. Members of the program […]
Google has announced the launch of two tools aimed at improving businesses’ mobile performance and released the results of a mobile benchmarking study. The company is launching a Speed Scorecard that will allow brands to compare their mobile site speed to that of other companies in 12 countries. Additionally, Google says its new Impact Calculator […]
Uber is preparing to sell its Southeast Asia business to Singapore’s Grab in exchange for a sizable stake in the company, according to two sources with knowledge of the matter. No deal has been reached yet, and the timing of any such deal is uncertain. Grab provides private car, motorbike, taxi and carpooling services in […]
In 100 days the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) comes into force, bringing with it new laws covering how businesses collect, store and use consumer data. As businesses prepare for the new rules, almost two-thirds (61%) of consumers are already happy with the amount of personal information they share. This change in attitudes has been […]
Bloomberg.com has found a compelling new way to report on a tired old subject. The American Mall: A 2018 Retail Challenge is an interactive, retro video game that doubles as an agonizing journey through mall management. First, choose a character like tech-savvy angel investor Maximilian or local business magnate Linda. From there, choose a strategy […]
Line, the messaging app with around 200 million monthly users, is embracing bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies to fend off increased competition from Facebook and others. The Japanese company has announced the creation of a new financial services division which will spearhead a move into cryptocurrencies and other services including loans and insurance. Line already operates […]
Google parent company Alphabet has a new business and it’s all about cybersecurity. Chronicle is an independent business under the Alphabet umbrella and it’s aimed at helping companies find, track and stop cyber attacks. With two branches — a cybersecurity and analytics platform, as well as a malware intelligence service called VirusTotal — Chronicle will […]
Lyft has finally opened up Concierge to businesses and organizations of all sizes. The program allows members to hail rides for other people, giving companies a way to offer that extra touch of service to customers, especially those who can’t call for a ride themselves due to one thing or another. Concierge launched in 2016 […]
Masterclassing, the global digital marketing events business, has acquired Dot Media, publisher of Mobile Marketing Magazine and organiser of the Mobile Marketing Summits, Effective Mobile Marketing Awards and Programmatic Lunch for an undisclosed sum. Both companies’ existing brands will continue to operate independently, but the acquisition will accelerate opportunities for global expansion. Masterclassing, founded in […]
Apple officially confirmed it’s acquiring the music recognition app Shazam, according to Buzzfeed. The purchase is the latest acquisition for the world’s largest tech company. First launched in 1999, Shazam has grown significantly over the last several years. Once specifically devoted to music recognition, Shazam now accepts audio and visual clips to identify songs, movies, and […]