August 3, 2026
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Konica Minolta and I-Pro agree strategic partnership in Europe

Konica Minolta Business Solutions Europe and I-Pro EMEA B.V. have agreed a strategic business partnership focused on the European region, combining their strengths in imaging technology and system integration with the aim of delivering advanced solutions and systems tailored to industry-specific needs.

The partnership aligns with Konica Minolta’s vision to strengthen its Video Solution Services (VSS) offering by integrating world-class AI-powered security technologies that meet the growing demand for smarter, scalable, and secure environments. Through this agreement, Konica Minolta will offer I-Pro’s comprehensive portfolio of video safety and security products, including edge-AI cameras and Active Guard system. Konica Minolta will leverage its extensive sales and service network to distribute and support I-Pro technologies across the region, enabling system integrators and end users to benefit from turnkey security services.

The partnership is expected to drive growth in sectors such as critical infrastructure, education, retail, manufacturing, and smart cities.

Vaclav la Rose, Head of Video Solution Services Europe, Konica Minolta, “This new partnership with I-Pro is a complement to our cooperation with Mobotix. Both product lines will continue to be offered, with each serving distinct customer needs and use cases. The addition of I-Pro enhances Konica Minolta’s ability to deliver broader end-to-end security and beyond security solutions.”

Jose Riolobos, President, I-Pro EMEA B.V., commented, “Since its establishment in 2019, I-Pro has been building market leading partnerships with partners around the world. This partnership strengthens our presence in Europe and enables our edge computing product lineup to help solve a broader range of social and operational challenges.”

Inoue Shintaro, Head of Sales, Imaging and Automation Business Division, Imaging-IoT Business Unit, Konica Minolta, added, “We are confident that our collaboration with I-Pro in the European region will deliver significant business value. Our complementary competencies and high standards will benefit both organisations—and most importantly, our European customers.”

Honeywell Announces $600 Million Capital Raise for Quantinuum to Advance Quantum Computing at Scale

Honeywell today announced an approximately $600 million equity capital raise for Quantinuum, developer of the world’s highest-performing quantum computer, at a pre-money equity valuation of $10 billion.

Quanta Computer, NVentures (NVIDIA’s venture capital arm) and QED Investors have joined existing shareholders JPMorganChase, Mitsui, Amgen, Cambridge Quantum Holdings, Serendipity Capital and Honeywell — all of whom have reinvested in this round. The round also includes participation from new investors MESH and Korea Investment Partners.

This capital raise will support Quantinuum’s advancement of quantum computing at scale, which includes continued progress toward the upcoming launch of Helios, the company’s next generation quantum computing system that is expected to launch this year. It will also support Quantinuum’s path to becoming the first to perform universal fault-tolerant computing.

A full-stack quantum computing provider, Quantinuum is accelerating commercially useful quantum computing with commercially available quantum computers that are the undisputed leaders in performance. Along with some of the most used developer tools and end-applications such as InQuanto, the company’s solutions are driving breakthrough scientific discoveries, economic growth and sustainable development.

Quantinuum continues increasing its commercial momentum and earning global recognition. The company will work with NVIDIA as a founding collaborator on breakthroughs at the NVIDIA Accelerated Quantum Research Center.  Additionally, Quantinuum has entered strategic partnerships aimed at innovative quantum computing solutions that will expand the capabilities of classical artificial intelligence and realize next-generation technologies.

Quantinuum recently announced partnerships and collaborations with RIKEN, SoftBank Corp., Infineon and STFC Hartree Center, as well as expansions into New Mexico, Qatar and Singapore.

The company’s collaborations collectively provide substantial investment funding, accelerate research and product development, scale manufacturing capabilities, secure supply chains and foster the overall growth of the quantum technologies industry.

Vimal Kapur, Chairman and CEO of Honeywell:
“Quantinuum continues to meet and exceed our stated objectives — strategically, technically and commercially. We have complete confidence in Quantinuum’s ability to continue to lead the quantum revolution and create long-term value for its investors and customers.”

Dr. Rajeeb Hazra, President & CEO of Quantinuum:
“We are proud to partner with investors who share deep conviction in our vision for the future of quantum and AI. With the continued support of our customers and supply chain partners, this new funding will further extend our leadership, accelerate our roadmap and strengthen the entire quantum ecosystem.”

Siemens Report Highlights Digitalization as Key to Decarbonizing Food and Beverage Sector

On the path to net zero, the food and beverage industry faces significant challenges, from a growing global population to limited resources. With the sector responsible for nearly 30% of global energy consumption, innovation and collaboration are critical to cutting its carbon footprint.

At Siemens, we believe in the power of technology to achieve decarbonization goals. Our research report Digital Transformation, Sustainable Returns shows that 63% of F&B professionals see strong potential in digital technologies to reduce resource use. Among emerging tools, artificial intelligence (AI) is expected to have the greatest impact over the next three years, followed by digital twin technology, advanced simulations, and automation.

Emirates Bustanica, one of the world’s largest vertical farms in Dubai, illustrates how digitalization transforms food production. Through integrated automation and smart infrastructure, the facility saves 250 million liters of water annually while producing over one million kilograms of pesticide-free food. SIMATIC automation and building management systems optimize lighting, CO₂ levels, and climate control, ensuring efficiency today while preparing for future AI-driven solutions.

In the drinks sector, Colorado-based Marble Distilling Co. used Siemens’ automation controller to increase efficiency by 75%. The distillery tripled production and cut costs by 20% through tighter controls and smarter energy management.

“The opportunities offered by digitalization are endless, and we must accelerate the pace at which we’re digitally transforming to achieve net zero on time,” Siemens stated. With 2030 fast approaching, every step of the F&B value chain—from farming and processing to packaging and transport—must embrace digital solutions to drive lasting change.

European Commission Imposes Another Record Fine on Google Over Digital Advertising

The European Commission has imposed a new record fine of €2.95 billion on Google over what it described as unfair practices in digital advertising, marking the latest chapter in Brussels’ long-running battle with U.S. tech giants. Regulators argue that the company abused its dominance by favoring its own services at the expense of competitors, warning that forced divestitures of parts of Google’s business remain an option if the company fails to comply. EU Competition Commissioner Teresa Ribera stated that Google must present a credible solution to address conflicts of interest, stressing that the EU “will not hesitate to impose strong remedies.”

Google quickly announced plans to appeal, calling the decision excessive and harmful to European businesses that rely on its tools. “This ruling demands changes that will make it harder for thousands of companies across the EU to operate,” said Lee-Anne Mulholland, Google’s Global Head of Regulatory Affairs.

The case has further heightened political tensions between Brussels and Washington. U.S. President Donald Trump denounced the fine as “discriminatory” and threatened retaliatory measures under the 1974 Trade Act, saying he would not tolerate what he described as attacks on “American ingenuity” and hinting at possible tariffs. This penalty, the fourth Google has faced in the past decade from the EU, follows years of investigation and complaints from publishing associations. It comes just days after a U.S. court rejected a request to break up Google, underscoring the sharp contrast between regulatory approaches on the two sides of the Atlantic.

Artificial Intelligence Could Face Strict Oversight, Warns OpenAI CEO

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has warned that the world may be on the verge of a “fraud crisis” fueled by artificial intelligence. Speaking to U.S. media, Altman said AI has already defeated most traditional authentication methods, pointing to banks that still rely on voice recognition as a serious risk. He cautioned that criminals are increasingly able to use AI-generated voices and videos to impersonate people and carry out scams.

The FBI and U.S. officials have previously reported cases of AI voice cloning used to trick parents and even attempts to impersonate senior government leaders. Altman predicted that what begins with phone calls will soon escalate into video interactions indistinguishable from reality. “I am very nervous that we have an impending, significant fraud crisis,” Altman told the audience.

His remarks come as the White House prepares to release its “AI Action Plan,” a strategy for regulating artificial intelligence and ensuring U.S. leadership in the field. OpenAI has been active in Washington, confirming that it will open a new D.C. office early next year with about 30 employees. The office will serve as a hub for policy engagement, training programs, and research on AI’s economic impact.

Despite acknowledging the risks, OpenAI has urged the Trump administration to avoid regulations it says would weaken U.S. competitiveness against foreign AI rivals. On jobs, Altman said predictions about AI’s economic impact are uncertain, though he expects some jobs to vanish while new forms of work emerge. He suggested that in the distant future, many people may no longer hold “real jobs” but instead create roles to feel useful and maintain social value.

OpenAI also released a report by its chief economist comparing AI’s impact to transformative technologies such as electricity and the transistor. The report notes that ChatGPT now has around 500 million global users, with many young Americans turning to the tool for learning and upskilling.

ICT® and KONE Announce Integration of Protege GX with KONE Office Flow

Integrated Control Technology (ICT®), a leading provider of intelligent access control, intrusion detection, building automation, and security solutions, together with KONE, a pioneer in innovative people flow solutions, have announced the integration of ICT’s Protege GX system with KONE Office Flow. This powerful partnership delivers a unified elevator and access control platform designed to enhance operational efficiency, reduce administrative workload, and strengthen security in commercial buildings.

The synchronization of Protege GX with KONE Office Flow ensures user records are seamlessly integrated across both systems, creating a centralized and automated approach to building management. Access details such as elevator cars, floors, and control panels are populated within the Protege GX interface, enabling precise programming of access levels, schedules, expiration dates, and credentials. Key KONE features, including destination control and direct elevator call, are also supported, improving the flow of people in high-traffic environments.

The integration brings several significant benefits. Operations are streamlined by synchronizing user records and data between Protege GX and KONE Office Flow, eliminating the need to manage separate systems. Administrative workload is reduced, as redundancies are removed and staff can save valuable time while minimizing the risk of errors.

Security is enhanced with a single point of control for doors, turnstiles, and elevators, combined with synchronized access event tracking for comprehensive oversight.

End users also benefit from a simplified experience, with a seamless single-credential solution for both door and elevator access that delivers unmatched convenience. Advanced elevator management features add further value: destination control groups passengers traveling to the same floors into the same car, reducing lobby congestion, while direct elevator call automatically dispatches an elevator to a user’s assigned floor, saving time and simplifying movement through the building.

This integration addresses key challenges in modern commercial properties, including managing high traffic, ensuring robust security, and improving tenant satisfaction. The synchronized system reduces operational complexity for building managers while enabling smooth people flow during peak hours.

Sarah Thompson, Chief Product Officer at ICT, commented: “This collaboration with KONE is an exciting step forward in intelligent building management. By integrating Protege GX with KONE Office Flow, we’re delivering a solution that combines streamlined operations, heightened security, and a superior user experience. It’s the future of smarter, safer, and more connected buildings.”

Hytera Europe Launches New Website

Hytera Europe has unveiled its new website at www.hytera.com/eu, designed to deliver a more modern and streamlined online experience. The platform offers improved navigation, refreshed content, and comprehensive information about products and solutions tailored for the European market. The new design follows contemporary trends, with strong product visuals, clear headings, and interactive presentations of key device series.

The homepage highlights current promotions and campaigns, while the intuitive menu ensures quick access to product categories, industry solutions, and company updates.

A particular emphasis has been placed on vertical solutions – from public safety and oil & gas to business enterprises and education – making it easier for users to find information specific to their needs.

The news and events section features the latest updates on global summits, awards, and partnerships, strengthening transparency and communication with the market. The website is intended to serve as a central hub for the latest news, marketing materials, and customer resources, with an open invitation for visitors to share feedback that will help further enhance Hytera’s digital presence. The existing site, www.hytera-europe.com, will be automatically redirected to the new domain from September 15, and users are encouraged to update their bookmarks accordingly.

IDIS Video Analytics Power DeFacto’s Business Expansion

Fashion retailer DeFacto is one of the best-known and most successful clothing brands in Türkiye, with a program of rapid expansion since its launch in 2004. This expansion has seen new branches prosper in Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Central and Southeast Asia – and advanced video analytics are playing a role in the company’s success, with a solution from IDIS and its integration partner Secom Türkiye.

With many new locations being added each year, DeFacto is making significant investments in the use of advanced technology to drive efficiency and a focus on providing positive customer experiences.

Video surveillance is a key technology for DeFacto, but the camera systems it previously used were proving to be an obstacle to innovation. To support its expansion mission, DeFacto needed a new video solution that would deliver powerful AI functionalities and enable improved, centralized control.

Understanding the value of video analytics

Understanding the value of AI analytics for business intelligence, as well as for loss prevention, DeFacto also sought a video technology that would be easy to integrate with its broader business information systems.

To support management decision-making, the company prioritized a more accurate and affordable solution for people counting, conversion rate measurement, and capture rate analysis. DeFacto turned to IDIS and its systems integration partner, Secom Türkiye, for a solution that would combine the latest capabilities with the most competitive lifecycle value (lowest TCO).

Phased migration to advanced functionality

A proof of concept (POC) demonstrated that IDIS 5MP Fisheye cameras can achieve complete scene coverage of DeFacto outlets, typically spanning over 3000 sqm, with fewer cameras. Reducing the number of cameras required significantly reduced costs, with less cabling, fewer switch ports, and minimized installation and maintenance time.

Following the POC, a phased migration program allowed the old system to continue in operation as the new system was rolled out store by store, with IDIS VMS providing a stable and user-friendly operating platform.

A mix-and-match VMS architecture ensured best value, while allowing flexible system control: IDIS Solution Suite (ISS), IDIS’s feature-rich enterprise VMS, provides advanced functions for management teams at DeFacto’s head office, while the free client software allows essential video functions to be handled at local stores and on regional managers’ laptops.

DeFacto adopted IDIS Smart Privacy Masks, not only for GDPR compliance but for internal security and fraud prevention. An advanced, video-based people counting solution, utilizing IDIS’s DV-1304 AI Box, replaced a leading brand using conventional technology across DeFacto’s stores, covering up to nine doors in each location.

IDIS’s AI-powered people counting analytics were shown to be significantly more accurate and far less expensive. IDIS configured a new web-based dashboard to make it easy for DeFacto’s senior management to utilize analytics data, including conversion rates and capture rates.

More accurate metrics support growth strategy

DeFacto now has accurate video analytics data around customer footfall, passing traffic, and customer engagement, as well as enhanced head office oversight of prevention and risk management. The company can now make more confident decisions about store performance and staffing and identify new areas for investment.

The IDIS solution has transformed DeFacto’s management control across its portfolio, utilizing dependable, forward-facing technology that provides a sustainable service lifespan and the best total cost of ownership (TCO) affordability. “IDIS video technology is uniquely suited to supporting DeFacto’s growth strategy,” says Erdoğan Tekin, Deputy General, Secom Türkiye. “This powerful, yet easy to install, solution helps retail chains reduce losses and risks, improve centralized control, and deliver valuable insights into store performance and trading conditions in each location.”

For more information, see the IDIS eBook: eBook_2025_IDIS_Retail_Biz_Intelligence

Euro Defence Expo 2026 Gains Momentum with Strong Industry and Government Support

Euro Defence Expo (EUDEX), the new international trade fair for the defence industry, will take place from September 22 to 25, 2026, at Messe Essen. With one year still to go, more than 80 exhibitors from twelve countries have already confirmed their participation, including Belgium, Germany, India, the Netherlands, Poland, Ukraine, and the United States. Several joint stands with regional and thematic focuses are also planned, fostering greater exchange and networking opportunities within the sector.

Additional momentum comes from Berlin, as the German Federal Ministry of Defence has expressed its support for the event. According to the organizers, political recognition at the federal level significantly increases the appeal of EUDEX for decision-makers from both the military and government. “We are delighted by this strong signal, which provides crucial legitimization and confirms the importance of EUDEX in strengthening Germany’s military capabilities within alliance systems,” said Oliver P. Kuhrt, CEO of Messe Essen.

What makes EUDEX unique is its integration of military and civil security dimensions.

The fair will run in parallel with Security Essen, the leading international exhibition for civil security, which previously hosted more than 500 exhibitors. This alignment creates a comprehensive platform that brings together all relevant security solutions in one place.

Adding further value, the annual conference of NATO’s Joint Air Power Competence Centre (JAPCC) will also be held at Messe Essen, bringing together over 400 senior military representatives and experts from 32 NATO member states. The close connection between these events will generate valuable synergies between industry and the armed forces. In addition, the specialist conference organized by CPM-Verlag will offer further opportunities for dialogue between experts from industry, politics, and the military.

Online registration for exhibitors is already available at www.eurodefenceexpo.de. Alongside exhibition halls, EUDEX will also provide outdoor areas and options for live demonstrations.

OpenAI and Meta Introduce New Safeguards for Teen Users

OpenAI and Meta have announced updates to the way their AI chatbots operate in order to better protect teenagers and users showing signs of emotional or mental distress. OpenAI, the company behind ChatGPT, said parents will soon be able to link their own accounts to their teenager’s profile. This will allow them to disable specific features and receive alerts whenever the system detects that their child may be experiencing acute emotional distress.

The company also emphasized that, regardless of a user’s age, the most sensitive conversations will be redirected to more advanced AI models designed to provide higher-quality and more appropriate responses.

These measures come shortly after the parents of 16-year-old A.R. from California filed a lawsuit against OpenAI and its CEO Sam Altman, alleging that ChatGPT played a role in their son’s suicide. While experts caution that such cases cannot simply be attributed to the technology itself, companies say the new safeguards are meant to create a safer digital environment—particularly for younger users.

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