LONG-LASTING TOUGHBOOK G3 SETS NEW STANDARDS FOR RUGGED TABLETS

Unrivalled battery life, increased mobility, and edge AI processing makes the G3 the only choice for accessing critical workflows in demanding environments.

WIESBADEN, Germany, Sept. 30, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The new Panasonic TOUGHBOOK G3 delivers a major step forward for rugged tablets. Panasonic's new battery pack structure delivers unrivalled longevity and choice, whilst its lightweight, agile, and modular design is engineered for mobile field users in defence; emergency services; utilities; surveying; manufacturing; logistics; and automotive.

Battery Life Breaks the Mould

Panasonic's new battery technology in the G3 increases battery life by 39%[1], with users able to select three different batteries, delivering 8.5 hours, 17 hours, and 24 hours of usage per charge[2], respectively. The G3's 99Wh battery – the largest capacity battery available in any TOUGHBOOK – is designed for the longest shifts when access to power-hungry, AI-driven applications in the field is a priority.

The G3 also features 'hot-swappable' battery functionality, with an optional new 'bridge' battery enabling seamless switching without turning off the device.

Next-Generation Agility

The G3 delivers lightweight, compact rugged mobility in a versatile form factor. Its 10.1-inch display and portable design make it easy to carry, and use in vehicles, and confined spaces. It is adaptable and agile for any application – whether it's as a conventional tablet; docked in emergency services vehicles, or in forklift trucks in warehouses to streamline supply chain and logistics workflows.

Unrivalled AI Performance

As an advanced TOUGHBOOK AI PC, the G3 delivers next-generation rugged performance with the latest Intel® Core™ Ultra Series 3 platform and features dual-channel RAM[3]. This gives mobile teams the speed, responsiveness and AI-ready foundation to run demanding workflows on Windows 11 Pro. Featuring Copilot+ capabilities, the G3 can collect, store, and analyse mission-critical data at the edge without relying on a continuous cloud connection. 

Robust Connectivity

The G3 features Wi-Fi 7 connectivity, with optional 4G or 5G standalone capabilities. Standalone and private 5G networks are ideal for field workers that need instant connectivity in remote areas. In the defence sector, this level of connectivity is essential for low-latency, high-speed communications.

Renowned Panasonic Reliability and Security

Designed to be benchmarked against IP66[4] standards for dust and water ingress, the G3 has been vibration tested to MIL-STD 810H specifications[5], can survive drops of 180cm, and operates in temperatures between -29°C to 63°C.

As a Windows 11 Secured-core PC, the G3 protects users, devices and data with identity-first authentication. As with all TOUGHBOOK devices, users can configure their G3 fleet with TOUGHBOOK Guard[6]. This embedded firmware-based security continuously validates the device's hardware configuration against an approved baseline. This ensures only authorised components remain active before the OS loads.

[1] When compared to the G2mk3. Tested to MobileMark® 30 benchmark.

[2] Tested to MobileMark® 30 benchmark.

[3] 32GB and 64GB models only.

[4] Currently certified against IP65 standards. IP66 results available in Q4 2026. G2mk3 certified to IP65 standards.

[5] Will be tested by an independent third-party lab following MIL-STD-810H and IEC60529, Sections 13,4, 13.6.2, 14.2.5 and 14.3 in 2026. This performance test does not guarantee against damage or malfunction.

[6] Only available when configured prior to manufacturing.

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LONDON, Sept. 30, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Clarenta today announced that Leads To Development (L2D) has joined Clarenta Group following a majority investment, strengthening Clarenta's ability to support biotech and pharmaceutical sponsors from preclinical drug development strategy through first-in-human clinical trials and beyond.

The partnership adds specialist non-clinical development, manufacturing, and regulatory strategy expertise at the critical early stages of drug development.

Based in France, L2D supports innovative biotech and pharmaceutical companies by defining development pathways, gathering and assessing preclinical evidence, initiating and trouble-shooting manufacturing, and creating regulatory strategies that help new therapies progress towards and through the clinic as efficiently as possible.

Together with Clarenta's existing early development consulting expertise and Early Phase Unit, L2D's capabilities strengthen the connection between early scientific strategy and first-in-human clinical research.

L2D joins Clarenta Group shortly after the launch of its new brand identity, marking another significant step in the Group's strategy to build an integrated early development partner for biotech and pharmaceutical sponsors. They will continue to operate from their Paris HQ as a specialist team, supporting existing and new clients while being strengthened by the broader capabilities of Clarenta Group.

Leadership Commentary

"Welcoming L2D into Clarenta Group is an important step in building the company we want Clarenta to be," said Dr. Chris Smyth, CEO of Clarenta. "Our focus is on helping clients navigate complexity from the earliest stages of development. L2D brings deep non-clinical, manufacturing and regulatory expertise that complements our existing strengths and helps sponsors connect the decisions made before the clinic with the realities of early clinical development."

"This exciting partnership allows L2D to remain focused on the specialist non-clinical development expertise that defines us while benefitting from the huge level of clinical experience within the Clarenta Group," said Jonathan Kearsey, Managing Director and Co-Founder of Leads To Development. "Our clients trust us to solve complex scientific and regulatory questions in the early stages of development – working alongside Clarenta enables us to connect those preclinical decisions with clinical strategies that deliver optimal, derisked and successful programmes."

"L2D is a strong strategic fit with Clarenta and the direction in which we are building the Group," said Christopher Backes, Co-Founder of EdgeCap Partners, the majority investor in Clarenta. "The partnership adds specialist expertise at the beginning of the development journey, where better decisions can create meaningful value for clients, while preserving the focus and expertise that have made L2D successful."

About Clarenta

Clarenta, formerly Comac Medical Group, is a European clinical development partner helping biotech and pharmaceutical companies navigate complex clinical development with clarity, foresight and confidence. Clarenta connects early development strategy, regulatory expertise and clinical execution, from studies in its Phase I Unit to clinical delivery across Europe.

About Leads To Development

Based in Paris, France, Leads To Development (L2D) provides specialist non-clinical development and regulatory consultancy alongside hands-on operations support. For over 15 years', they have helped biotech and pharmaceutical companies excel in their early-stage drug development.

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Jiangxi China-Africa Gen-Z Youth Entrepreneurship Competition Concludes Successfully

NANCHANG, China, Sept. 30, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- A report from Jiangxi International Communication Center(JXICC): On the afternoon of September 29, the Award Ceremony & Entrepreneurship Forum of the Jiangxi China-Africa Gen-Z Youth Entrepreneurship Competition took place in Nanchang, Jiangxi Province.

At the event, two outstanding projects, "The Bamboo Bridges China-Africa: Coolness Co-Creation Project" and "Jiangxi-Based Vertical AIGC Digital Collaboration Platform," took the stage, showcasing how youth from China and Africa are using innovation to address real-world needs and sharing development opportunities through collaboration. Following the presentations, guests presented awards to the winning project teams and outstanding mentors.

During a roundtable discussion, representatives from the competition's judging panel, Jiangxi-based enterprises engaged with Africa, Chinese youth, and university career guidance instructors shared insights under the theme "China-Africa Gen Z: Creating New Opportunities for Digital Innovation and Youth Entrepreneurship." Drawing on their respective experience, they discussed how young people from both regions can harness digital technologies to deepen cooperation, foster innovation, and create new entrepreneurial opportunities.

The awards ceremony marked the completion of the 2026 Gen-Z China-Africa Youth Entrepreneurship Platform Series.

Looking ahead, an African youth representative Emmanuel Edward expressed hope that the competition would continue to grow and provide an even stronger platform for youth entrepreneurship between China and Africa. "I am proud to be part of this China-Africa youth journey," Emmanuel Edward said.

The year 2026 marks the China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges. In January, the Jiangxi China-Africa Youth Entrepreneurship Alliance was established in Nanchang, alongside the launch of the Jiangxi China-Africa Gen-Z Youth Entrepreneurship Competition. Since its launch, the competition has received 147 eligible entrepreneurial proposals, with 56 percent submitted by teams composed of both Chinese and African youth.

After multiple rounds of evaluation, 16 high-quality projects advanced to the final. Throughout the competition, participating teams received ongoing support. They refined and improved their business plans based on the realities of both Chinese and African markets, enhancing the feasibility and potential of their projects.

After systematic development and refinement, the selected projects advanced to the final pitch. These projects addressed practical needs in China-Africa cooperation, covering areas ranging from people's livelihoods, such as healthcare and vocational training, to industrial sectors including modern agriculture and mining. They combined innovative thinking with strong potential for real-world application. Following intense competition, six projects won first, second, and third prizes, while 10 projects received excellence awards.

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Norge Mining Enters Strategic Partnership With GEM, Including A Share Subscription Facility Of Up To $125m Conditional On Public Listing

Partnership provides access to GEM's international network of government stakeholders and industrial counterparties as Norge Mining advances its strategic and critical raw materials projects

LONDON, Sept. 30, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Norge Mining Limited, a European strategic and critical raw materials company developing a downstream processing project including elementary phosphorus and a large-scale Norwegian, titanium, vanadium and phosphate resource, announces that it has entered into a strategic partnership with GEM Global Yield LLC SCS, part of Global Emerging Markets, the US$3.4 billion alternative investment group. The partnership advances the prospect of securing a vital and transparent supply of critical minerals for strategic sectors across US, European and allied markets.

The partnership combines financial and strategic support. GEM has committed to provide the Company with a share subscription facility of up to US$125 million (the "Facility"), which becomes available only once the Company's shares are publicly listed. Alongside the Facility, GEM will work with Norge Mining's management to provide access to GEM's international network of government stakeholders and industrial counterparties, including potential offtakers, in support of the Company's business plan.

Financial plan

Norge Mining's upstream Pre-Feasibility Study ("PFS") has been completed, and more than US$100 million has been invested in the Company's development to date, including exploration, resource definition and technical studies.

The Company is in the process of seeking additional capital to fund the next phase of development, including advancing the upstream and downstream projects to Final Investment Decisions ("FID"). The Facility, which becomes available only following a Listing, is intended to form part of the Company's broader funding strategy alongside other sources of capital.

The Company`s projects

Through its wholly owned Norwegian subsidiary, Norge Mineraler AS, Norge Mining holds mineral extraction rights granted by the Norwegian Directorate of Mining (DMF) covering 26.3 km² in southwest Norway.

The Company has defined approximately 4.6 billion tonnes of JORC-compliant mineral resources containing titanium, vanadium and phosphate inside an area which it considers the largest known igneous phosphate resource globally. The phosphate is characterised by high purity and ultra low levels of Cadmium and Uranium, giving it the potential to serve as a benchmark feedstock for downstream phosphate applications.

Norge Mining is developing a vertically integrated model extending from mining and beneficiation through logistics to downstream chemical processing, with the aim of providing secure and transparent supplies of critical raw materials to European, U.S. and allied markets.

Norway is a founding member of NATO and part of the European single market through the European Economic Area, providing a politically stable jurisdiction closely aligned with both the United States and Europe.

Strategic importance of the resource

Titanium is a critical raw material across numerous industrial applications and new emerging technologies. Vanadium is used in long-duration energy storage, aerospace, defence and steel alloys. Phosphate is fundamental to global agriculture, while phosphorus is increasingly important in defence, pharmaceuticals, semiconductor manufacturing and battery technologies. The co-location of all three in a single mineral system gives Norge Mining the potential to supply several strategic value chains from one European source.

Phosphorus supply is receiving growing policy attention. The United States designated phosphate as a critical mineral in November 2025, and U.S. Executive Order 14387 of 18 February 2026 invoked the Defense Production Act to ensure an adequate supply of elemental phosphorus, citing its importance to military readiness, semiconductors, lithium-ion battery chemistries and food security.

A strategic partnership

For Norge Mining, the partnership is expected to provide support in addition to equity in two areas:

- Government engagement. Support for the Company's engagement with U.S. and allied government entities focused on the security of critical minerals supply chains.

- Industrial partners and offtakers. Introductions to prospective offtakers and downstream industrial partners across the, titanium, vanadium and phosphate value chains in Europe, the United States and allied markets.

Management and partner commentary

John Vergopoulos, CEO of Norge Mining, said:

"Critical minerals are no longer simply a commodity issue; they are a strategic supply-chain issue for governments and industries. At Norge Mining we call our response 'vertical thinking': building an integrated supply chain from the resource in the ground through to the products strategic industries need."

SOURCE Norge Mining

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Dynamic Infrastructure and University of Bath Test How AI Approaches Perform on Real-World Infrastructure

A joint research study compares different AI approaches and tests how well they generalise to infrastructure they have never seen before.

NEW YORK and BATH, England, Sept. 30, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Dynamic Infrastructure, the Engineering AI platform for critical civil assets, today confirmed an ongoing research collaboration with the University of Bath's Department of Architecture and Civil Engineering. Working with Thomas Kjeldsen, Professor of Hydrology and Water Engineering, the project is being carried out as part of Arline Osorio Moreno's MSc research and explores a practical question with major implications for infrastructure AI: how well different AI approaches hold up on a real engineering task, especially when applied to assets and sites they have never seen before.

The study examines how computer vision can identify infrastructure conditions from inspection images, focusing on blockage and obstruction in drainage assets. A central part of the work is cross-site generalisation: a model that performs well on the sites it was trained on may perform very differently on a network in another region, where construction, camera equipment and inspection practices vary. That gap matters enormously to any agency deciding whether an AI system is reliable enough for real-world use.

To test this, the research compares several families of approach against the same task: vision-language models, vision foundation models, supervised deep learning and classical machine-learning methods. Each carries different trade-offs in accuracy, robustness, how much labelled data it needs and how well it transfers between sites. Early results show strong and meaningful differences between both methods and sites. They also indicate that current frontier vision-language models, despite their broad capabilities, do not yet provide the robustness required for reliable real-world implementation on this specialised task, while more targeted approaches can perform substantially better.

"What stood out to us is how differently the models behave on the same engineering task," said Arik Voronov, AI R&D Lead at Dynamic Infrastructure. "The biggest, most general models are not always the strongest choice here, and more specialised approaches can be much more consistent. The other important question is whether that performance holds up when the model is exposed to different sites, inspection conditions and asset characteristics. That combination — model choice and robustness across real-world variation — is where the interesting picture starts to emerge."

"This project demonstrates the important role that partnerships between academia and industry can play in advancing engineering innovation," said Professor Kjeldsen. "By combining the University of Bath's research expertise with Dynamic Infrastructure's practical knowledge, we are able to test emerging AI technologies against pressing infrastructure challenges. Collaborations like this help ensure that new AI tools are not only scientifically rigorous but also capable of delivering tangible benefits for infrastructure operators and wider society."

This has been an exciting collaboration and the partners intend to continue working together with the aim of developing the work into a peer-reviewed publication.

About Dynamic Infrastructure: Dynamic Infrastructure is the market-leading Engineering AI agent platform and system of record for critical civil assets, managing thousands of structures across 15 states and countries. The platform delivers autonomous risk intelligence to predict deterioration and assess structural health, replacing subjective opinions with data-driven clarity to help prevent catastrophic failures. Led by deep-tech entrepreneurs and industry experts, the company scales engineering judgment to address global budget constraints, the workforce crisis, and the aging infrastructure cliff. For more information, please visit https://diglobal.tech/

About the University of Bath:

The University of Bath is one of the UK's leading universities, recognised for high-impact research, excellence in education, an outstanding student experience and strong graduate prospects.

- We are ranked among the top 10% of universities globally, placing 125th in the QS World University Rankings 2027.

- We are ranked in the top 10 in the Complete University Guide, Guardian University Guide and The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide.

- We are ranked No. 1 in the UK for happiest graduates in The Guardian University Guide.

- The University achieved a triple Gold award in the last Teaching Excellence Framework 2023, the highest awards possible, for both the overall assessment and for student outcomes and student experience. The Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) is a national scheme run by the Office for Students (OfS).

Research at Bath is shaping a better future through innovation in sustainability, health, and digital technologies. Find out all about our Research with Impact: http://bit.ly/3ISz1Wu

Contact

Leah Stern, Dynamic Infrastructure Media Desk

[email protected] / +44-747-019-6826

SOURCE Dynamic Infrastructure

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HANGZHOU, China, Sept. 30, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- HoyUltra 2000M is Hoymiles' newly launched full-scenario commercial and industrial (C&I) energy storage solution, developed around a simple idea: do more in the factory so less efforts will be spent on project site. With integrated system components, flexible electrical configurations and liquid cooling, the MWh-level BESS is built to simplify deployment and operate across different project scenarios.

- Simplified deployment through high integration

HoyUltra 2000M combines the battery, PCS, thermal management, static transfer switch (STS) and fire protection into a single system. Unlike a conventional solution that uses 10 storage containers in parallel, HoyUltra 2000M reduces the system footprint by approximately 15% with less external equipment and on-site wirings.

Based on Hoymiles' estimates, the required on-site work can decrease from 46 hours to 10 hours, promising considerable construction cost savings.

- Flexible configuration for different applications

HoyUltra 2000M offers a capacity of up to 2.61 MWh. Its AC voltage classes cover 400V, 690V and 800V, enabling adaptation to different electrical conditions. The system also supports integration with PV and diesel generators, providing greater flexibility for C&I and multi-energy applications such as PV + wind.

- Built-in STS for seamless switching

HoyUltra 2000M has a built-in static transfer switch (STS) to support backup switching in less than 20 ms, maintaining continuous power supply for critical loads.

- Reliable operation across challenging environments

The system uses liquid cooling for both the PCS and battery, with an operating temperature range from -30°C to 55°C. It maintains rated power output at up to 50°C. HoyUltra 2000M is also equipped with cabinet-level fire protection, including smoke and temperature detection, fire suppression, interlocked ventilation and compartment explosion relief.

"As C&I energy storage projects become more diverse, clients need solutions that go beyond storage capacity," said Dr. Rex Zhu, General Manager of Hoymiles' Residential and C&I Storage Business Unit in introducing the design philosophy of HoyUltra 2000M. "Electrical conditions, installation requirements, multi-energy integration, backup power and operating environments all need to be considered."

With a focus on integration, flexibility, reliability and safety, HoyUltra 2000M will help more C&I customers improve energy efficiency and maximize the value of energy storage across diverse operating scenarios.

Learn more about HoyUltra 2000M

SOURCE Hoymiles Power Electronics Inc.

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Bruce Claassen joins Kao Data as New Chief Financial Officer (CFO)

As CFO, Bruce Claassen brings over 20 years of international financial leadership experience across multinational, multisector businesses, including more than a decade focused on digital infrastructure and private equity-backed high-growth businesses. He joins Kao Data as the company continues to expand its AI-ready data centre platform across Greater London and Greater Manchester, supporting growing demand from AI and advanced computing workloads.

LONDON, Sept. 30, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Kao Data, the specialist developer and operator of data centres engineered for AI and advanced computing, has today announced that Bruce Claassen will join the company as its Chief Financial Officer (CFO) with effect from 1st October 2026.

Bruce joins Kao Data as CFO at a pivotal stage in the company's growth. Working alongside the CEO and senior leadership team, he will help scale the business in support of its ambitious plans while partnering closely with the Board and investors as new developments progress in Stockport, Greater Manchester, and Park Royal, West London, alongside the company's award-winning AI-ready campus in Harlow, Essex.

With more than 20 years of experience leading finance organisations across multinational, multisector businesses, Bruce brings a strong track record in capital investment, refinancing and building high-performing finance teams across both listed and private equity-backed businesses. He joins from Global Switch, the international data centre developer and operator, where he spent four years as Group Finance Director and most recently Acting CFO. In these roles, he led the Group's finance organisation across Europe and APAC and oversaw major refinancing programmes that supported the company's continued global expansion.

"The data centre industry is experiencing an unprecedented period of transformation, and I am excited to be joining one of the UK's leading digital infrastructure businesses as it continues to support growing demand from the AI and hyperscale cloud sectors," said Bruce Claassen, CFO, Kao Data. "I look forward to working closely with the Board, our investors and the leadership team to deliver Kao Data's long-term growth strategy, building on the company's strong foundations and reputation for developing and operating data centres engineered for AI and advanced computing workloads."

"Bruce brings extensive experience of operating within fast-paced, high-growth, private equity-backed businesses, together with deep expertise in capital investment and refinancing," said Spencer Lamb, CEO, Kao Data. "We are delighted to welcome him to Kao Data as CFO. His combination of digital infrastructure expertise, financial leadership and private equity experience makes him an excellent fit as we continue to accelerate our growth ambitions and meet increasing customer demand."

Born and raised in South Africa, Bruce moved to the UK after completing a Bachelor of Architecture (BArch) degree at the University of the Witwatersrand. He subsequently qualified as a Chartered Accountant in London and is a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (FCA, ICAEW). Bruce began his career in a series of complex, transformative international listed companies before spending the last decade in high-growth, private equity-backed businesses. Prior to joining Kao Data, he held senior finance leadership roles at Towergate, Worldpay, RAC and Global Switch, building extensive experience in capital investment, refinancing and business transformation.

Bruce will assume the role of Chief Financial Officer at Kao Data on 1st October 2026. For more information – visit the website.

About Kao Data

Kao Data leads the industry, pioneering the development and operation of UK and European data centres engineered for AI and advanced computing. With hyperscale-inspired facilities east and west of London, and northern England's largest data centre planned for Greater Manchester, we are home to technology's most demanding computing infrastructure.

Its award-winning, NVIDIA DGX-Ready certified data centres are designed, engineered, and operated by one of the industry's most respected teams. Together, this provides colocation customers deploying mission-critical AI, enterprise, and cloud workloads with a secure, scalable, and sustainable compute environment, backed by a guarantee of 100% uptime.

Kao Data's data centre portfolio includes more than 237 MW of IT load, either currently operational, under development or planned – all of which is under-pinned by the highest energy efficiency, sustainability and ESG credentials.

Backed by leading international investors, and with several pioneering 'industry firsts' to our name, Kao Data represents the future in industrial scale, high-capacity data centres for AI and the next generation of compute.

SOURCE Kao Data

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2027 iGaming Trends Report by SOFTSWISS Is Live

LISBON, Portugal, Sept. 30, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- SOFTSWISS, a global strategic partner for the iGaming industry, presents 2027 iGaming Trends report – a benchmark for navigating the industry. Co-authored with WorldGaming (ex Clarion), the new edition offers cross-sector insights, including contributions from Amazon Web Services.

The 2027 iGaming Trends report by SOFTSWISS is available to download for free. Based on a survey of over 500 experts and analysis of more than 480,000 media headlines, it is the biggest research tracking industry trends, shifts, and narratives.

Marking the report's fifth anniversary, this edition introduces "Beyond iGaming" – a cross-sector comparison of iGaming with e-commerce, sports, film, gaming, streaming, e-pharma and crypto across market size, growth, regulation and digital maturity.

Alexandra Kavelich, Deputy CMO at SOFTSWISS, comments: "The next competitive advantage in iGaming will not come from content alone. It will come from regulatory readiness, secure payment journeys, intelligent risk management, and platforms that can respond quickly to changing regulations. Fintech, e-commerce have already set the standard in these areas. iGaming operators that adapt those lessons effectively will be better positioned to grow responsibly and profitably."

WorldGaming (ex Clarion) – a general partner and co-author of the report – adds a regional outlook on how regulatory and market shifts will shape the industry in 2027, including which jurisdictions are projected to grow faster, the trends to watch.

Robin Harrison, Global Content Director B2B at WorldGaming (ex Clarion), explains: "The industry is simultaneously becoming more global and more local. Regulation, tax, payments, competition and player behaviour vary significantly from market to market. Scale can get you into more jurisdictions, but it definitely doesn't guarantee success. The next generation of leading operators is the one that understands where the local friction is, how to ease it, and execute effectively."

Non-iGaming Voices Join Pool of Co-Authors

The report features key findings from non-iGaming experts:

- Amazon Web Services' co-authored analysis of how AI is moving from pilots into production across gaming, betting, media, and fintech, tracing the shift from AI as copilot to core workforce

- Dataset from H2 Gambling Capital on GGR growth, as well as trends for key regions

- Pentasia's hiring outlook, highlighting the skills and roles that are likely to shape the future

About SOFTSWISS

SOFTSWISS is a strategic technology partner to iGaming operators, enabling them to build and scale successful online casino and sportsbook businesses in regulated markets worldwide.

SOURCE SOFTSWISS

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Beko scales smarter, more accessible customer care across 58 countries

27,000 technicians combine human expertise, connected diagnostics and AI-supported tools across Beko's global service network of 22 brands.

ISTANBUL, Sept. 30, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Beko, a global leader in home appliances, is connecting its focus on product quality and reliability with a smarter, more accessible and increasingly proactive after-sales. Beko's global after-sales operations extend across 58 countries, bringing together more than 7,000 service points, 27,000 technicians, 50 call centers and approximately 2,000 customer service agents. Ranging from its flagship consumer brand Beko to Whirlpool*, from Bauknecht to Hotpoint, this unified network ensures seamless support.

"High-quality customer care begins with a reliable product," says Fatih Özkadı, Chief Customer Care Officer of Beko. "Our ambition is not to perform more repairs. It is to help customers get the best performance from their appliances and, whenever support is needed, provide the right solution with the highest possible service quality."

Quality begins with the product

Beko's approach to quality and reliability begins with product design, testing and manufacturing and continues throughout the customer's ownership experience. This end-to-end quality management mechanism is supported by ISO 9001 certification across 100 percent of its headquarters and manufacturing plants and is independently verified through accredited third-party audits. To ensure continuous improvement, internal audits and advanced data analytics are systematically implemented across all divisions.

Customer feedback, product-quality indicators and service information are monitored to identify opportunities for product and process improvement. Through structured internal platforms and high-impact projects in digitalization, artificial intelligence, and traceability are systematically evaluated and deployed under executive oversight.

Support across the customer journey

Beko's after-sales capabilities support customers before, during and after a service need. Product guidance, maintenance information, digital troubleshooting and connected-product capabilities can help customers use their appliances correctly, maintain their performance and resolve suitable issues without an on-site visit.

Customers can also use digital channels such as service sections of the brand web sites to access product information, troubleshoot suitable issues, create and manage service requests and connect with customer support. Through Beko's smart home app, HomeWhiz, users also get seamless connectivity across compatible appliances, product guidance, self-service features, and in selected countries, one-touch access to consumer service through the Service Button.

Behind this setup stands a robust operation of 50 call centers and approximately 2,000 customer service agents, ensuring seamless human-backed assistance. These channels collect relevant information before a service visit, helping consumer service teams and technicians understand the issue and prepare more effectively.

Equipping technicians through continuous learning and AI

"Our technicians represent the human face of Beko in the customer's home. We are responsible for combining their expertise with accurate product information, connected insights and AI-supported tools to empower them to deliver the quality of service our customers expect," says Fatih Özkadı, Chief Customer Care Officer of Beko.

In practice, this means giving technicians both the training and the tools they need as products and technologies evolve. Beko provides in-person and online training covering product knowledge, diagnostics, repair practices, safety and consumer service. In 2025, the company delivered 2,204 technical training sessions across 48 countries, totalling 112,620 hours.

Technicians can also access technical documentation and diagnostic guidance through digital platforms. Beko's AI-supported Technician Coach helps them find relevant information and generates approximately 800 repair solution recommendations a day across its global operations. These tools do not replace technicians' expertise or judgment; they reduce the time spent searching for information and help technicians apply their knowledge more quickly and consistently.

More than 450,000 spare-part SKUs

Not every technical issue requires a physical component to be replaced. In some cases, technicians can install or update software on electronic control boards in the field, keeping functioning hardware in use.

When physical components are required, Beko supports its global service operations by managing a portfolio of more than 450,000 spare-part SKUs. Driven by AI-powered forecasting and integrated planning, spare-part availability improved by 5% in 2025, ensuring the right components are available wherever they are needed.

ABOUT BEKO

Beko is an international home appliance company with a strong global presence, operating through subsidiaries in more than 55 countries with a workforce of around 45,000 employees and production facilities spanning multiple regions—including Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. Beko has 22 brands owned or used with a limited license (Arçelik, Beko, Whirlpool*, Grundig, Hotpoint, Arctic, Ariston*, Leisure, Indesit, Blomberg, Defy, Dawlance, Hitachi*, Voltas Beko, Singer*, ElektraBregenz, Flavel, Bauknecht, Privileg, Altus, Ignis, Polar). Beko is the largest white goods company in Europe with its market share (based on volumes) and reached a consolidated turnover of 10.7 billion Euros in 2025. Beko's 28 R&D and Design Centers & Offices across the globe are home to over 2,000 R&D employees and hold more than 4,500 international registered patent applications to date. The company has achieved the highest score in the S&P Global Corporate Sustainability Assessment (CSA) in the DHP Household Durables industry for the seventh consecutive year (based on the results dated 16 October 2025).** The company has been recognized as the 89th most sustainable company on TIME Magazine and Statista's 2026 list of the World's Most Sustainable Companies and has been the sector leader for three consecutive years. Beko's vision is 'Respecting the World, Respected Worldwide.'

*Licensee limited to certain jurisdictions.   

**The data presented belongs to Arçelik A.Ş., a parent company of Beko.  

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New Everpure research reveals a "sovereignty gap"—64% of enterprises lack formal data sovereignty strategies to control their data and defend against geopolitical risks and AI exposure.

LONDON, Sept. 30, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Everpure (NYSE: P), the company revolutionizing storage and data management, today released new global research revealing that 88% of large enterprise C-suite leaders believe a data sovereignty failure could cost them their jobs, while 91% worry about financial and reputational damage to their organization. Despite these high stakes, 64% of organizations operate without a formal data sovereignty strategy in place—exposing a vulnerability in modern enterprise data management in today's uncertain geopolitical environment.

Data sovereignty has evolved into a defining business risk—with challenges ranging from foreign-mandated data exfiltration to potential Denial of Service (DoS) incidents. Everpure's Global Data Sovereignty Report 2026 surveyed 2,100 enterprise leaders across eight countries to evaluate strategic intent against real operational readiness. The results reveal a stark divide:

Data Sovereignty Concern is Real:

- 90% of organizations recognize data sovereignty as a business concern, with the overwhelming majority expecting severe financial or leadership consequences in the event of a failure.

- 85% are willing to compromise on advanced features and functionality to work with a local or sovereign provider.

- 40% are already limiting their use of SaaS providers reliant on non-domestic infrastructure.

Recognition without Readiness:

- Despite these revelations, 64% of organizations operate without a formal data sovereignty strategy in place.

- 62% lack full visibility into who can access, control and manage their data.

- 56% have no mitigation plans for geopolitical data exfiltration or service disruption.

- 56% admit they lack the skills and capacity to deliver sovereignty initiatives, while 36% are facing challenges with executive buy-in.

- Only 9% say protection from extraterritorial data access is a top priority.

The findings expose a clear "sovereignty gap" between executive recognition of risk and actual operational readiness. Many companies still treat sovereignty as a routine cybersecurity or compliance exercise. As a result, organizations fail to secure control of their data, and cannot defend against geopolitical threats that could result in significant consequences.

"Senior leaders understand their jobs are on the line over data sovereignty, yet many are still focused on the wrong risks. Sovereignty is not simply about where data is stored, but having full visibility and control over it through modern data management. Who can access data, which jurisdictions apply and whether business-critical data or services could be disrupted are key questions every organization should be asking." - Alex McMullan, Chief Technology Officer, International, Everpure.

"Digital sovereignty has moved from a compliance conversation to a critical board-level concern. The challenge for executives is not just about knowing where their data are hosted. It is about being in total control of all data access and transfers (including all metadata), guaranteed protection against extra-territorial data requests, and managing IT and vendor risks in light of geopolitical uncertainties."

- Rahiel Nasir, Research Director and Lead Analyst, Worldwide Digital Sovereignty, IDC.

Everpure's Recommendation: Sovereignty by Design

A successful sovereignty strategy requires moving from passive risk recognition to targeted operational execution. Organizations can follow a set of interconnected steps to become sovereign by design - a business-driven, risk-aware framework where sovereignty controls and governance are applied according to the risk of each data set, application and workload. The focus shifts from national sovereignty to corporate sovereignty, an approach based on an organization's specific risk appetite and view on regulation.

This model enables businesses to protect critical assets from key sovereignty risks without sacrificing the flexibility, innovation or scale of global SaaS and cloud providers. Everpure Data Intelligence supports this model by discovering, classifying and contextualizing enterprise data across the Everpure Platform, public clouds, SaaS applications, and third-party storage. This facilitates sovereignty by providing total visibility of their data estate, enabling organizations to make informed decisions about how data should be governed and protected.

By focusing on data and mitigating against risks, organizations can become sovereign by design - transforming sovereignty from a barrier to innovation to a source of resilience and competitive advantage.

Notes to Editors

Everpure commissioned research company Vanson Bourne to examine the views of 2,100 C-suite and IT leaders from large enterprises across eight countries in June 2026.

The research covers the UK, France, Germany, Australia, Japan, South Korea, Singapore and India – representing diverse regulatory and geopolitical landscapes where data sovereignty has become a defining factor for business outcomes.

Additional Resources

- Access the full report: Global Data Sovereignty Report 2026

- Blog: Sovereignty's Data Imperative

- Read more: How to Achieve Sovereignty by Design

- Data sovereignty infographic

About Everpure

Everpure (NYSE: P) allows organizations to take control of their data with an industry-leading, ever-evolving storage and data management platform. We help companies unleash the power of their data by ensuring it is accessible, intelligent, and ready to perform in the AI era. We make data management effortless while simultaneously scaling performance and significantly reducing energy consumption. With one of the highest Net Promoter Scores for over a decade, Everpure is the choice of the world's most innovative organizations. For more information, visit www.everpuredata.com.

SOURCE Everpure

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