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Neurophet Introduced Use Cases of Its AI-based Brain Imaging Analysis Solutions at the SEACURE Symposium Hosted by Nanyang Technological University in Singapore

  • Introduced brain-imaging analysis products, including Neurophet AQUA AD, which enables monitoring of adverse effects related to Alzheimer’s disease treatments
  • Highlighted clinical value of Neurophet AQUA AD…To accelerate efforts across healthcare institutions in Southeast Asia

SEOUL, South Korea, Dec. 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Neurophet (Co-CEOs Jake Junkil Been and Donghyeon Kim), an artificial intelligence (AI) solution company for brain disorders diagnosis and treatment, announced on 9th that it participated in a symposium held on the 28th of last month (local time). The event was hosted by the Southeast Asian Consortium on Neurocognition, Neuroimaging and Biomarker Research (SEACURE) at Nanyang Technological University (NTU), Singapore.

Hyunkook Lim, CMO of Neurophet, delivering a presentation at the SEACURE symposium.
Hyunkook Lim, CMO of Neurophet, delivering a presentation at the SEACURE symposium.

At the symposium, Neurophet operated an exhibition booth and showcased its major AI-powered brain imaging analysis solutions, including Neurophet AQUA AD, a software that supports monitoring of Alzheimer’s disease treatment prescription, therapeutic effect, and adverse effects.

During the event, Hyunkook Lim, Chief Medical Officer (CMO) of Neurophet and Director of the Catholic Brain Health Center at Yeouido St. Mary’s Hospital, along with Nagaendran Kandiah, a leading dementia expert and professor at the Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, NTU, presented detailed use cases and clinical research outcomes involving Neurophet’s AI-based brain imaging analysis solutions.

Hyunkook Lim, CMO of Neurophet, delivered a presentation titled “Neurophet a Game-Changer in Clinical Practice: Real-World Cases of Dementia Treatment Efficacy & Side Effect Management.” He highlighted real-world cases from clinical settings in Korea using Neurophet AQUA AD and emphasized its clinical value in enhancing the safety of Alzheimer’s disease treatment administration.

Professor Nagaendran Kandiah presented on the topic “Automatic Brain Segmentation in Cognitive Impairment: Validation of AI-based AQUA Software in the Southeast Asian BIOCIS Cohort.” His detailed research finding demonstrated the clinical validity of Neurophet AQUA, a neurodegeneration imaging analysis software, in patients with mild cognitive impairment and dementia.

Jake Junkil Been, Co-CEO of Neurophet, stated, “By presenting the clinical value of Neurophet AQUA AD at this symposium, we further strengthened the evidence supporting its clinical utility,” adding, “We plan to accelerate the expansion of Neurophet AQUA AD across healthcare institutions in the Southeast Asian region.”

Meanwhile, the symposium concluded successfully with the participation of approximately 220 neurologists across six Southeast Asian countries, including Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam.

About Neurophet

Neurophet specializes in developing solutions for diagnosis support, treatment guides, and treatment devices targeting brain disorders based on cutting-edge artificial intelligence (AI) technology. The company was founded in 2016 by Co-CEOs Jake Junkil Been and Donghyeon Kim, who developed the next-generation neuro-navigation system.

Major products include brain MRI analysis software “Neurophet AQUA”, PET Image Quantitative Analysis Software “Neurophet SCALE PET”, Brain imaging treatment planning software for electric and magnetic brain stimulation “Neurophet tES/TMS LAB”, Alzheimer’s Disease treatment prescription and monitoring software “Neurophet AQUA AD” for tracking treatment efficacy and side effects, and Multiple Sclerosis image analysis software “Neurophet AQUA MS”.

Neurophet has set its top priority to helping patients suffering from brain disorders. Based on expertise in neuroscience, Neurophet will continue to challenge and grow to explore the human brain’s health and pioneer solutions for brain diseases with AI technology.

TicNote Pods: The World’s First 4G AI Note-Taking Earbuds

SAN FRANCISCO, Dec. 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Mobvoi Inc., the company behind the popular Wear OS–powered TicWatch line and TicNote, today unveiled TicNote Pods, the world’s first 4G-connected AI note-taking earbuds, debuting now on Kickstarter. Designed for professionals, students, and creators who need to stay focused and organized in a fast-moving world, TicNote Pods combine seamless connectivity with advanced on-device intelligence. Unlike traditional AI recorders that only capture external sound, TicNote Pods record both your environment and the voices transmitted through your earbuds, ensuring complete and reliable audio capture anywhere.

Combining premium wireless audio with built-in 4G connectivity and next-generation AI, TicNote Pods redefine how people capture and recall conversations — automatically recording, transcribing, and summarizing everything from meetings and lectures to phone calls and interviews, and syncing to the cloud without the help of a phone.

With built-in 4G eSIM, TicNote Pods deliver notes and summaries up to 50% faster than traditional connections, helping users save time and stay efficient. They can also operate independently from Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, allowing recordings and uploads to continue even when a phone isn’t nearby. Conversations are captured through dual-microphone arrays and processed by Shadow AI — TicNote’s intelligent meeting agent that automatically transcribes, summarizes, and organizes discussions into actionable notes within minutes.

TicNote Pods: The World’s First 4G AI Note-taking Earbuds
TicNote Pods: The World’s First 4G AI Note-taking Earbuds

“We designed TicNote Pods to give people the freedom to be fully present,” said Zhifei Li, CEO of Mobvoi and former Google scientist. “Whether you’re in a phone call, a meeting, or a coffee chat, TicNote Pods quietly handle everything — recording, transcribing, and organizing so you can stay focused on what matters.”

Core Functions

TicNote Pods merge the speed of next-generation AI with the freedom of online & offline recording, delivering seamless productivity anywhere.

Fast AI Transcription & Summaries – Powered by Shadow AI, TicNote Pods capture and process conversations instantly, producing speaker-labeled notes and concise summaries ready in the TicNote app.

Earbuds & Charging Case Recording – For Every Online and Offline Meeting, unlike traditional recorders, TicNote Pods capture both environmental sounds around you via its charging case and voices transmitted through its earbuds, letting you record every side of a conversation.

Smart Summaries & To-Dos – Shadow AI turns transcripts into structured overviews with Summary Templates for meetings, study sessions, or interviews — and even generates actionable to-do lists from your discussions. Shadow AI also detects actionable tasks inside those to-do lists and offers to handle them for you.

Multilingual Intelligence – Real-time transcription and translation in 100+ languages make TicNote Pods ideal for international teams, students, and travelers.

Designed for Everyday Use – Lightweight, 7 g per earbud, with soft liquid-silicone hooks for all-day comfort during work, study, or travel.

One Device, Two Worlds – Doubles as premium wireless earbuds with ENC + AEC noise cancellation, low-latency Bluetooth 6.0, and responsive touch controls for calls, playback, and meetings.

Technology & Features

Behind TicNote Pods’ fast, phone-free performance lies a compact system built for real-time AI processing and reliable connectivity.

Built-in 4G eSIM Connectivity – The integrated 4G module enables instant uploads and processing without Wi-Fi or a phone, cutting transcription time by up to 50% compared to standard connections. Supported in the US, Canada, EU, UK and Australia.

Wi-Fi Hotspot & Bluetooth 6.0 Modes – When 4G isn’t available, the system automatically switches to Wi-Fi or Bluetooth for uninterrupted recording, file transfers, and app synchronization.

Dual-Mic AI Noise Cancellation – Each pod features ENC (Environmental Noise Cancellation) and AEC (Echo Cancellation), enhanced by cloud-based AI noise suppression that isolates voices and ensures transcription accuracy in any environment.

Battery & Storage System – Fully charges in 2 hours, while a 15-minute top-up provides 3 hours of use. Enjoy 5 hours of continuous recording per session with earbuds and up to 25 hours of total recording time with a fully charged case. For entertainment, the case delivers up to 40 hours of music playback. The charging case also includes 32 GB of local storage (2000+ hours of audio) with automatic cloud backup for secure data protection.

Shadow AI Agent – Proprietary architecture that powers fast transcription, summarization, and task creation directly from captured content, forming the intelligence layer behind TicNote Pods’ speed and autonomy.

Cloud Integration & Security – All data is stored in the U.S.-based encrypted servers with strict user-level isolation, giving users complete control over access and privacy.

Open-Ear Comfort Design – Built from a titanium wire frame and liquid-silicone hooks for lasting comfort and stability. Available in Navy Blue and Pearl White finishes.

Benefits

  • Fast & Independent – Built-in 4G connectivity delivers transcriptions and summaries in minutes — even without Wi-Fi or a phone.
  • All-in-One Productivity Tool – Record calls, meetings, or lectures without switching devices or apps.
  • Complete Privacy – Manual recording control, encrypted uploads, and local storage options ensure trust.
  • Multilingual Collaboration – Transcription and translation in over 100 languages for global use.
  • Personal Knowledge Base – Automatically organizes transcripts, summaries, and AI chats into a searchable workspace.
  • Seamless Collaboration – Share and co-edit notes through the TicNote workspace.

How It Works

  1. Wear – Put on TicNote Pods just like any other earbuds (if not recording via the case).
  2. Tap – Double-tap the case button to start recording; double-tap any earbud to play the next song or answer phone calls.
  3. Record – The AI captures voices within 5–10 meters, automatically filtering noise.
  4. Transcribe & Summarize – Shadow AI delivers complete transcriptions and key summaries quickly.
  5. Interact – Users can ask follow-up questions, search notes, play podcasts, and generate reports instantly.

Specifications

Form Factor:  True Wireless Stereo (TWS) design with precision engineering

Microphones: Dual directional ENC + AEC mics and charging-case array for 10 m capture

Connectivity:  4G eSIM, Wi-Fi hotspot, Bluetooth 6.0 seamless switching

Transcription: Full audio transcribed in quickly with 4G

Languages: 100 + languages with real-time written translation

Battery & Charging: 40 h total use • 25 h continuous recording • 15 min charge = 3 h use

Storage: 32 GB local storage (≈ 2000 + h of audio) • Unlimited cloud sync

Standby Time: 45 days Bluetooth/Wi-Fi hotspot• 7 days active 4G standby

Weight: 7 g each • 65 g with case

Durability: IPX4 splash-proof and daily wear ready

Security: End-to-end encrypted cloud storage • Manual control of recordings

Compatibility: iOS / Android

Colors: Navy Blue and Pearl White

Availability

TicNote Pods will be available worldwide in navy blue and pearl white color options, with 4G eSIM connectivity supported in the United States, Europe, UK, Australia and Canada. When 4G isn’t available, the system automatically switches to Wi-Fi or Bluetooth for uninterrupted recording, file transfers, and app synchronization.

 Each device includes 600 free transcription minutes per month, with upgrade options:

  • Pro Plan: $119/year – 2,100 minutes per month
  • Business Plan: $229/year – 6,600 minutes per month

All recorded files and summaries sync automatically via the TicNote app and TicNote Cloud at www.ticnote.com.

TicNote Pods will debut on Kickstarter, offering early backers exclusive launch pricing of $199, ahead of the product’s global retail release at an MSRP of $299. Shipping for Kickstarter backers is expected to begin in January 2026.

About Mobvoi

Mobvoi is an innovative AI tech company with in-house core technologies in the areas including speech recognition, natural language understanding, vertical search, etc. Its core consumer products include the TicWatch line of smartwatches and the AI voice recorder TicNote. Mobvoi recently achieved a successful listing on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange (HKEX: 02438), signaling a new chapter in the company’s commitment to innovation and technology-driven solutions for its users.

Mobvoi is dedicated to redefining the next generation of human-machine interaction by bringing hardware/software integrated products into people’s daily life with a strong AI-centered approach.

To find out more about Mobvoi: www.mobvoi.com

Media Contact
Email: rongrong.zhao@mobvoi.com
Press Kit: [https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1zvxCjq8-qP7O_3EwbQpH5z0za9d5inMk?usp=sharing]Kickstarter page: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/mobvoi/ticnote-pods-worlds-smartest-4g-ai-note-taking-earbuds

 

Medit Launches AuraVue: A Unified 3D Intraoral Scan and X-Ray Visualization Powered by Overjet AI

NEWPORT BEACH, Calif., Dec. 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Medit, a global leader in 3D intraoral scanning and digital dentistry solutions, today announced the launch of AuraVue, a next-generation visualization and consultation platform that integrates Overjet’s AI technology to deliver real-time diagnostic insights and clearer patient communication.

Medit Launches AuraVue: A Unified 3D Intraoral Scan and X-Ray Visualization Powered by Overjet AI
Medit Launches AuraVue: A Unified 3D Intraoral Scan and X-Ray Visualization Powered by Overjet AI

With AuraVue, clinicians can now view 3D intraoral scans and X-rays side by side in one interactive workspace. By combining Medit’s 3D imaging with Overjet’s AI-powered radiographic analysis, AuraVue transforms diagnostic data into clear, visual storytelling that helps patients understand their conditions and treatment plans.

“Most patients understand best when they can see what’s happening,” said Michael Lee, chief technology officer of Medit. “AuraVue transforms diagnostics into a visual story—helping patients better understand their oral health in seconds and empowering clinicians to communicate with confidence.”

For example, a traditional bitewing can reveal decay, distance to the pulp, bone loss, and existing restorations. AuraVue brings that to life by pairing it with a corresponding 3D scan that shows soft tissue, inflammation, cracks, occlusion, discoloration, and wear—all in the same visual frame. The result is a clear, image-backed treatment plan that helps boost case acceptance and strengthen patient trust.

“AuraVue is a strong example of how technology can advance patient-centered care. By combining Medit’s leadership in intra-oral scanning with Overjet’s clinical AI, we’re giving clinicians a clearer, more complete view of oral health than ever before. When patients can see and understand their conditions in real time, trust grows, decisions become easier, and care improves. We’re proud to partner with Medit to make that experience accessible to every practice,” said Wardah Inam, CEO, Overjet.

With AI-powered insights from Overjet, clinicians can simply highlight an area of concern and instantly view the corresponding X-ray with diagnostic information displayed side-by-side. Additionally, AuraVue can generate a one-click summary report for easy sharing, whether with patients, referring practitioners, or for insurance claim submissions.

AuraVue runs entirely on the cloud, requiring no installation, local storage, or additional set-up. Users can get started immediately by importing X-rays without having to install Overjet separately.

To celebrate its launch, Medit is offering a limited-time introductory promotion for AuraVue. For information on how to take advantage of this offer, visit the Medit website for more details.

About Medit

Medit is a global provider of 3D intraoral scanners and digital dentistry solutions based on proprietary technology. The company supports collaborative workflows between dental clinics and labs through innovative hardware and software solutions. Headquartered in Seoul, South Korea, since 2000, Medit has a strong global presence through its offices in the Americas and Europe and a distributor network spanning over 100 countries.

Disclaimer: AuraVue is a patient consultation and communication application that displays diagnostic results generated by Overjet.ai (FDA approved) software. AuraVue does not analyze, interpret, or provide diagnoses.

About Overjet

Overjet is the world leader in dental AI. Founded by experts from MIT and Harvard University, Overjet builds artificial intelligence that helps dental organizations give patients the highest quality of care. Its technology is FDA-cleared to detect, outline, and quantify major oral health conditions, enabling dentists to diagnose with precision and educate patients with confidence. To learn more, visit overjet.com.

Media Contacts:
Tiffany Yang
Sr. Marketing Manager
tiffany.yang@medit.com

Skyler Wuolle
Head of Product Marketing
skyler.wuolle@overjet.ai

Sands China Celebrates 10th Anniversary of Local SME Supplier Support Programme and Hosts Supplier Excellence Awards

Anniversary publication marks long-term SME support for diversified development

MACAO, Dec. 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Sands China celebrated the 10th anniversary of its Local Small, Medium and Micro Suppliers Support Programme with a ceremony Tuesday at The Londoner Macao®, together with the launch of a 10th anniversary booklet showcasing the programme’s success stories. The event also featured the 2025 Sands Supplier Excellence Awards to honour outstanding suppliers, appreciation certificates to recognise long-term suppliers, and a cocktail and business networking session to further connect local businesses and company representatives for future cooperation opportunities.

During the 10th anniversary ceremony for the Local Small, Medium and Micro Suppliers Support Programme Tuesday, Sands China executives presented certificates of appreciation to 40 SME partners – many of whom have worked with the company for over two decades.
During the 10th anniversary ceremony for the Local Small, Medium and Micro Suppliers Support Programme Tuesday, Sands China executives presented certificates of appreciation to 40 SME partners – many of whom have worked with the company for over two decades.

The Local SME Suppliers Support Programme: A Decade of SME Empowerment

As the largest integrated tourism and leisure enterprise in Macao, Sands China has long championed a development model that enables large and small businesses to thrive together, introducing a variety of effective measures to foster the steady growth of SMEs. The Local Small, Medium and Micro Suppliers Support Programme, co-launched in 2015 with the Macao Chamber of Commerce, is a landmark programme under this vision.

The programme launched as Macao’s first SME-focused initiative led by a tourism and leisure enterprise, and targets three types of local businesses: small and micro suppliers, “Made in Macao” companies and Macao young entrepreneurs. It aims to support the Macao SAR government’s SME policies while further strengthening Sands China’s commitment to local business development. Its key projects include the F.I.T. programme, introduced in 2017, which provides financial support, invitational matching, as well as training and development to help local SME suppliers upskill and expand their business opportunities.

Since its inception, the programme has successfully deepened collaboration with local SMEs, generating remarkable results: a total of MOP 119.4 billion in procurement, with local procurement accounting for 83 percent, involving 4,700 SMEs.

Tuesday’s event unveiled the programme’s 10th anniversary booklet – outlining a decade of development and success stories – intended to inspire the city’s SMEs to attain greater achievements.

“SMEs are a vital pillar of Macao’s economy, securing the foundation of the city’s diversified industries,” said Grant Chum, chief executive officer and executive director of Sands China Ltd. “For more than 20 years, Sands China has remained committed to supporting the growth of local SMEs by leading the industry in prioritising local procurement, building promotional platforms for local businesses, and sharing our business expertise and experience to help them achieve independent development.

“In addition to recognising outstanding suppliers, we would also like to take this opportunity to honour and extend our heartfelt gratitude to our 40 long-term business partners. We sincerely thank the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the Macao SAR, the Macao SAR Government, and all sectors of society for their longstanding guidance and support. We are likewise grateful for the enduring collaboration of the Macao Chamber of Commerce, whose dedication has helped numerous local SMEs grow from seedlings into flourishing enterprises. We look forward to continuing our partnership and achieving even greater shared successes in the years to come.”

Ma Chi Ngai, president of the board of directors of the Macao Chamber of Commerce, said: “Ten years ago, the Macao Chamber of Commerce partnered with Sands China to launch the local SME support programme, applying the philosophy of supporting the development of local SME suppliers and prioritising local procurement, opening a new chapter of symbiotic growth between integrated tourism and leisure enterprise and local SMEs. Through a series of innovative support measures, including large-scale exhibition platforms, professional training, and technical guidance, we have built a comprehensive support system to help SMEs enhance their capabilities. Together, we have faced market changes and challenges side by side, forming a cooperative ecosystem of complementary strengths and mutual benefit. Looking ahead, we will continue to support Macao SAR government in helping local SMEs explore new pathways in digital transformation, brand upgrading, and international expansion, contributing our efforts toward Macao’s economic diversification.”

At the event, Sands China executives presented certificates of appreciation to 40 SME partners – many of whom have worked with the company for over two decades. The certificates were presented by Dr. Wilfred Wong, executive vice chairman of Sands China Ltd.; Grant Chum; Dave Sun, executive vice president and chief financial officer of Sands China Ltd. and managing director of Venetian Macau Limited; and Norbert Riezler, senior vice president and chief procurement officer of Las Vegas Sands Corp.

2025 Sands Supplier Excellence Awards

The Sands Supplier Excellence Awards are an annual initiative of Las Vegas Sands Corp., acknowledging the cooperation and services of some of Sands’ most noteworthy suppliers worldwide. A judging committee composed of Sands China executive management selects Macao’s award recipients each year. At Tuesday’s ceremony, Sands China awarded seven winners:

  • Corporate Culture & Sustainability:
    China Travel Service (Macao) Ltd
  • Innovation:
    Tech (Macau) Limited
  • Cost Management:
    Companhia de Obras de Decoracoes Wai Yun Lda.
  • Quality Management:
    Anglo-East Trading Co. (HK) Limited
  • Project Management:
    Vodatel Holdings Ltd
  • Service Excellence:
    Express Marine Electronics Company Limited
  • Small/Medium Enterprise (SME):
    Hight Tea International Development Company Limited

Guests at the event included: Sun Yaohua, director of the Economic Affairs Department of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the Macao SAR; Yau Yun Wah, director of the Economic and Technological Development Bureau of the Macao SAR government; Ma Chi Ngai; Victoria Kuan, director-general of the Macau Productivity and Technology Centre; Sam Lei, acting president of the Commerce and Investment Promotion Institute of the Macao Special Administrative Region; Paulo Coutinho, director and editor-in-chief of Macau Daily Times; and Lam Io Meng, deputy general manager of Macao Daily News.

Following the ceremony, a group of local enterprises joined a cocktail and business networking session to connect with representatives from various Sands China departments, including procurement and supply chain. Sessions like these over the years have enabled Sands China and local suppliers to explore and develop new mutually beneficial partnerships.

Sands China remains committed to prioritising local procurement and supporting the long-term growth of Macao’s SMEs, as an integral part of the company’s corporate social responsibility.

###

About Sands China Ltd.

Sands China Ltd. (Sands China or the Company) is incorporated in the Cayman Islands with limited liability and is listed on The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited (HKEx: 1928). Sands China is the largest operator of integrated resorts in Macao. The Company’s integrated resorts on the Cotai Strip comprise The Venetian® Macao, The Plaza® Macao, The Parisian® Macao and The Londoner Macao®. The Company also owns and operates Sands® Macao on the Macao peninsula. The Company’s portfolio features a diversified mix of leisure and business attractions and transportation operations, including large meeting and convention facilities; a wide range of restaurants; shopping malls; world-class entertainment at The Venetian Arena, The Londoner Arena, The Venetian Theatre, The Parisian Theatre, the Londoner Theatre and the Sands Theatre; and a high-speed Cotai Water Jet ferry service between Hong Kong and Macao. The Company’s Cotai Strip portfolio has the goal of contributing to Macao’s transformation into a world centre of tourism and leisure. Sands China is a subsidiary of global resort developer Las Vegas Sands Corp. (NYSE: LVS).

For more information, please visit www.sandschina.com.

Media contacts:
Corporate Communications, Sands China Ltd.
Mabel Wu
Tel: +853 8118 2268
Email: mabel.wu@sands.com.mo 

Jesse Chiang
Tel: +853 8118 2054
Email: jesse.chiang@sands.com.mo

Sands China awards seven winners in the Sands Supplier Excellence Awards Tuesday, acknowledging the cooperation and services of some of its most noteworthy suppliers. A judging committee composed of Sands China executive management selects the award recipients each year.
Sands China awards seven winners in the Sands Supplier Excellence Awards Tuesday, acknowledging the cooperation and services of some of its most noteworthy suppliers. A judging committee composed of Sands China executive management selects the award recipients each year.

Clarins launches its mobile app to elevate its customer relationship, in partnership with Merkle

PARIS, Dec. 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Clarins, the iconic family-owned global cosmetics group has launched its mobile app in partnership with long-standing digital partner Merkle, marking a new step forward in its direct-to-consumer acceleration.

Courtesy of Clarins
Courtesy of Clarins

Following a highly successful pilot in the UK, the app is now available in the United States, Canada and Australia, with additional markets, including France, to follow shortly. Designed to deepen engagement with its loyal customers, the app introduces a seamless and intuitive shopping experience that supports Clarins’ growing subscription business and enhances its direct-to-consumer strategy – a first in the prestige beauty industry.

Unlocking a more advanced shopping journey for loyal customers

For 70 years, Clarins has built its growth on listening, advising, and staying close to its customers, both in institutes and points of sale. The Clarins app extends this relationship thanks to native features that better address customers’ expectations:

  • Fast access to the full product offering;
  • A simple and intuitive shopping journey;
  • Persistent login and 1-click payment;
  • Access to all Clarins digital services, including the AI Skin Observer and the generative-AI powered chatbot;
  • Exclusive in-app offers;
  • Push notifications to stay informed in real time about new products and exclusive offers.

During the pilot in the UK, nearly 30% of Clarins’ loyal customers adopted the app, which received a 4.7-star rating on the Apple App Store. A majority opted-in to receive push notifications about product news and exclusive offers, confirming the app as a preferred communication channel with the brand.

Built on Clarins’ existing e-commerce infrastructure, the app – available on iOS and Android – combines the flexibility of web technology with the performance of native features such as permanent login, one-click payment, and a product barcode scanner. This hybrid app development approach optimizes investments while delivering a premium user experience.

Clarins CEO, Jonathan Zrihen: “Direct relationships with our customers have been at the heart of Clarins’ story for 70 years. With this new mobile app, we are strengthening our ability to support them every day, wherever they are. This innovation demonstrates our commitment to exceptional customer satisfaction, both online and in-store, and our pioneering role within the beauty industry.”

Clarins Chief Digital, IT & Business Support Officer, Laurent Malaveille: “Launching this app in the US, UK, Canada and Australia — and soon in other markets — is a key milestone in our Direct to Consumer (DTC) strategy. Designed for our loyal customers, it offers a simple, smooth and enjoyable experience, while integrating seamlessly with Clarins’ other digital services. Our partnership with Merkle has been instrumental in bringing this vision to life and deploying a scalable international solution.”

Merkle Global President, Peter Stein: “Clarins is an iconic beauty brand, and we’re proud to help them lead the way in redefining digital beauty experiences. While many retailers have embraced mobile apps, few beauty brands have fully tapped into this space – especially in the U.S., where the beauty and personal care market is projected to exceed $130 billion in 2025 (1). This app positions Clarins to capture that opportunity with a customer-first approach.”

Merkle UK CEO, Chris Freeland: “This app represents a new, high-impact channel for Clarins. It’s a testament to our strong partnership and shared focus on customer-centric, scalable solutions.”

The Clarins app is available for download on iOS and Android.

(1) Mordor Intelligence (https://www.mordorintelligence.com/industry-reports/united-states-cosmetics-products-market-industry)

About Clarins

Founded in Paris in 1954 by Jacques Courtin, Clarins is a family-owned global beauty group that has been innovating for more than 70 years to advance responsible beauty. As a result of continuous research, its plant-based products — formulated and manufactured in France — are sold in over 150 countries through 20,000 points of sale. With nearly 95% of sales generated internationally, Clarins is the No. 1* premium skincare brand in Europe and a leading global player in beauty (skincare and make-up), spa, and wellness. The Group has also developed the brand myBlend, built on the concept of holistic beauty, combining targeted skincare, nutri-cosmetics, and beauty tech. Clarins counts more than 8,000 employees across its Paris headquarters, 28 subsidiaries worldwide, two R&D laboratories, and two industrial sites in France. The Group is jointly led by Jonathan Zrihen, President & CEO, together with Dr. Olivier Courtin and his niece Virginie Courtin, representing the second and third generations of the founding family. Guided by its raison d’être — “Making life more beautiful, passing on a more beautiful planet” — Clarins is committed to sustainable innovation, with over 80% of ingredients of natural origin and a wide range of initiatives to protect nature and care for people.

https://www.groupeclarins.com/ 

*Source: NPD BeautyTrends®, Europe 5 (France, Germany, United Kingdom, Italy, Spain), luxury Skin Care market (products sold in perfumeries and department stores), value sales (€), for the period 3rd January 2022 to 1st January 2023.

Press contacts

Corporate communication

Image Sept – Marie Artzner, Anne Auchatraire, Caroline Simonclarins@image7.fr – +33 1 53 70 74 70

USA

Melissa Reidheadmelissa.reidhead@clarins.com / Lucas Petrylucas.petry@clarins.com

UK

Shoshana GillisShoshana.Gillis@clarins.com – +44 207 307 6792

Canada

Isabelle RochefortIsabelle.Rochefort@clarins.com / Martine LauzonMartine.Lauzon@clarins.com

Australia

Ava LentonAva.Lenton@clarins.com­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­

 

Sameh Samir Ali’s Research Fund project is approved by National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC)

Is It Time to Learn from Termites? Hidden Yeasts Inside Nature’s Micro-Bioreactor May Hold the Key

ZHENJIANG, China, Dec. 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Recently, the National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC) approved Sameh Samir Ali’s Research Fund for International Excellent Young Scientists (RFIS-II) project — “A novel approach with symbiotic yeasts from wood-feeding termites to convert lignin-based aromatic wastes into lipids as the substrate for biodiesel transformation” (Grant No. W2532040). This new national recognition provides the immediate news context for Ali’s expanding research program and underscores China’s strategic interest in transforming natural microbial systems into next-generation low-carbon technologies.

In the soil beneath our feet lives one of the most unlikely scientific allies: the wood-feeding termite. Long dismissed as a household pest, this tiny insect carries inside its gut a microscopic world so efficient and so chemically advanced that researchers are now asking whether human industry has something to learn from termites.

It’s a question that has shaped much of the emerging scientific field pioneered by Sameh S. Ali, an Egyptian microbiologist from Tanta University who now serves as a professor at Jiangsu University (JSU). Since 2015, Ali has worked closely with Professor Jianzhong Sun at the JSU’s Biofuels Institute, forming a decade-long research partnership that continues to reveal the hidden potential of termite–microbe systems. His contributions have gained increasing recognition in China, culminating in April 2025 when the Chinese government granted him a permanent residence permit — an honor reserved for researchers whose work is considered to hold long-term strategic value.

Sameh S. Ali drew international attention on 23 July 2021 when James Urquhart, writing for New Scientist — one of the world’s leading British science magazines, known for reporting advances in cutting-edge research since 1956 — published a feature titled “Termite bacteria could chomp wood waste into biofuel.” The report highlighted Ali’s discovery that bacteria inside the “super-termite” Coptotermes formosanus can decontaminate toxic creosote-treated wood by breaking down lignocellulose, a process that makes it easier for anaerobic bioreactors to convert the material into biofuels — a breakthrough that Urquhart noted “could be useful for turning harmful, chemically treated wood waste into biofuels.” The work also suggested that, if scaled effectively, termite-based micro-bioreactors could play a role in future strategies for converting waste into renewable energy and detoxifying industrial pollutants.

That early work marked a turning point, placing Ali among the few researchers exploring the termite gut not merely as an insect organ, but as a natural, miniaturized bioreactor with extraordinary potential. Today, his research is pushing the boundary even further — into the world of termite-gut yeasts, a long-overlooked group of symbionts now emerging as key players in waste detoxification and biofuel production.

Recent studies from the Biofuels Institute of JSU have strengthened this direction. In this context, the institute released an official report titled “Dr. Sameh Samir Ali reported a breakthrough technology in dealing with azo dye wastewater degradation and biodiesel production by the amazing oleaginous yeasts,” highlighting the growing momentum behind his work. Drawing from the microbial diversity of wood-feeding termites, Ali isolated multiple yeast strains and identified several capable of degrading a range of industrial azo dyes, tolerating harsh wastewater conditions and accumulating substantial quantities of lipids. By constructing a mixed consortium, a process was demonstrated in which dye decolorization and lipid synthesis occur simultaneously, establishing one of the earliest proposed pathways linking aromatic dye degradation directly to biodiesel production.

These results reflect the evolutionary logic of the termite gut — a natural micro-bioreactor finely tuned to break down complex plant polymers, detoxify chemicals, and repurpose them into usable energy, a challenge that mirrors the demands of many modern industrial waste streams.

Researchers describe the termite gut as a “micro-bioreactor,” organized into finely tuned chemical zones where bacteria, protozoa and yeasts interact in tight coordination. Oxygen shifts within micrometers, pH gradients appear in narrow layers, and metabolites flow across microchannels in ways that engineered systems struggle to replicate. Yet despite this sophistication, many of the ecosystem’s interactions remain unmapped, offering a vast frontier for discovery.

As the field grows, emerging insights suggest that artificial intelligence may accelerate future advances. Machine-learning tools are increasingly being used in microbial ecology to model how complex consortia exchange metabolites, predict enzyme functions and uncover previously unknown pathways for processing toxic aromatic compounds. Applied to termite-gut systems, these computational approaches could eventually guide the design of engineered yeasts inspired by termite symbionts — strains capable of functioning in industrial waste streams where many traditional microorganisms fail.  

If scaled beyond the laboratory, termite-based bioprocesses could reshape how wastewater is reused in agriculture. Detoxified effluents may be repurposed for irrigation, while lipids generated from aromatic wastes provide renewable biofuels that do not compete with food crops. Such possibilities align closely with international goals related to clean water, climate resilience and sustainable energy.

JSU (https://eng.ujs.edu.cn/) — one of China’s oldest institutions in agricultural engineering, with roots dating back to 1902 and several disciplines ranked among the global top 1% by ESI — provides the scientific environment that supports this emerging direction. Recognized as one of the top three universities in China in agricultural engineering and known for its strength in sustainable agricultural engineering and smart farming technologies, the university fosters a multidisciplinary ecosystem spanning bio-agriculture, intelligent machinery, and sustainable production systems.

Tanta University (https://tanta.edu.eg/en/) — a leading public research university in Egypt with strong programs in microbiology and environmental sciences, and ranked among the top 350 universities worldwide in the Times Higher Education interdisciplinary science rankings—serves as Ali’s academic home and the foundation of his international scientific career.

Within this setting, Ali’s research links microbial biotechnology with the broader goal of building low-carbon, data-driven agricultural solutions. By transforming industrial pollutants into biofuels and reusable water, his work aligns with JSU’s long-standing mission to advance sustainable agricultural innovation and to strengthen international collaboration in addressing global environmental challenges.

For now, the termite remains an unexpected teacher. Its gut — one of nature’s most efficient micro-bioreactors — continues to reveal possibilities far beyond its size. As research in this field progresses, these microscopic insights are steadily shifting the termite-gut system from a biological curiosity into a blueprint for new environmental and biotechnological solutions.

The newly awarded NSFC project further underscores the importance of this emerging research frontier. The RFIS-II grant—part of a highly competitive national program with an acceptance rate < 10% (in 2024, the approval rate was 9.38%, with only nine grants awarded nationwide under the International Excellent Young Scientists track)—is expected to accelerate efforts to develop termite-inspired waste-to-energy technologies, including engineered, robust yeasts capable of converting aromatic industrial waste into biodiesel under real-world conditions.

The termite gut remains a vast and intricate biological system. Even the smallest insect gut can spark ideas for some of the largest engineering innovations. While scientists may differ on how far termites can guide modern technology, their gut is still one of nature’s most sophisticated micro-scale ecosystems — a biological puzzle that continues to reveal lessons far beyond its size.

And as researchers continue to probe this miniature world, one question rises with renewed force: Is it time to learn from termites? Hidden yeasts inside nature’s micro-bioreactor may indeed hold the key — and according to Sameh Samir Ali, the most important chapters of this story have only just begun.

Allegiant Adds New Global Hotel Booking Platform Powered by Rocket Travel by Agoda

Over 20 million of Allegiant’s Allways Rewards members gain access to a new worldwide hotel platform where they can earn points on stays or redeem their points to book  

SINGAPORE, Dec. 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Allegiant, ranked as 2025’s Best Low-Cost Airline in North America in the Skytrax World Airline Awards, has partnered with Rocket Travel by Agoda, the strategic partnerships arm of Agoda. The agreement will introduce the airline’s customers to a new hotel booking platform. The platform, Allegiant Hotels, will enable Allegiant Allways Rewards members and customers to book hotels worldwide whilst earning or redeeming Allegiant points.

With this collaboration, Allegiant is expanding the reach of its Allways Rewards program, making it possible for customers to both earn and redeem points on hotel bookings worldwide. This new platform will extend hotel options to all Allegiant destinations and beyond, including popular leisure destinations such as Orlando, Tampa, Phoenix, Fort Myers, and Nashville.

“Travel loyalty is evolving beyond just points. It’s about delivering flexible, rewarding experiences. By partnering with Allegiant Airlines, we’re unlocking new value for millions of travelers, wherever they go,” shared Damien Pfirsch, Chief Commercial Officer and Head of Rocket Travel by Agoda.

The new platform, operated and powered by Rocket Travel by Agoda, delivers a seamless end-to-end hotel booking experience. Customers can search, book, and manage their hotel stays while earning or redeeming Allegiant Allways Rewards points – unlocking greater value and flexibility for over 20 million of Allegiant’s loyalty members. Rocket Travel by Agoda will source all hotel inventory and oversee the entire customer journey, including customer service, ensuring a best-in-class experience that matches the high standards of Allegiant’s own platform.

“This partnership with Rocket Travel by Agoda marks an exciting new chapter for Allegiant and our 20 million+ Allways Rewards Members,” said Drew Wells, Allegiant’s Chief Commercial Officer. “By working with a partner we trust to deliver exceptional technology and service, we’re able to offer our customers greater value and even more ways to earn and redeem points.”

Allegiant will actively promote the new platform to its Allways Rewards members, including exclusive offers for co-branded credit cardholders and special launch promotions, further strengthening its loyalty program and enhancing the travel experience.

With tailored promotions for co-brand credit cardholders and a focus on delivering greater value to travelers, this partnership highlights both organizations’ shared commitment to enhancing the travel experience and rewarding customer loyalty at every step of the journey.

Hyundai Mobis to Unveil 30+ New Technologies at CES 2026, Aiming to Strengthen Global OEM Partnerships

  • Hyundai Mobis to participate in CES 2026 next month… hosting an invitation-only private booth to focus on new business opportunities
  • To be showcased: M.VICS 7.0 cockpit integrated solution, X-by-Wire chassis integrated solution, next-generation displays, and more
  • “Holographic Windshield Display” wins CES Innovation Award, highlighting Mobis’s display engineering prowess

SEOUL, South Korea, Dec. 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — On the 9th, Hyundai Mobis announced that it will present more than 30 mobility convergence technologies at CES 2026, taking place in Las Vegas from January 6 to 9.

Hyundai Mobis will showcase its latest mobility technologies to global customers at CES 2026. Shown here is the M.VICS 7.0 cockpit integrated solution, featuring the CES Innovation Award–winning Holographic Windshield Display.
Hyundai Mobis will showcase its latest mobility technologies to global customers at CES 2026. Shown here is the M.VICS 7.0 cockpit integrated solution, featuring the CES Innovation Award–winning Holographic Windshield Display.

For CES 2026, the company will run its booth as a private exhibit exclusively for pre-invited customers. While engaging general visitors is still valuable, Mobis decided to make CES a more focused venue for securing meaningful business opportunities by inviting key clients from across North America.

Under the theme “Layer of Progress,” Hyundai Mobis plans to underscore how its technologies connect and evolve together. The company will highlight select innovations across its core areas, including electronics, electrification, and chassis safety, tailored specifically for global customers. Senior executives from multiple major global automakers, including heads of purchasing and technology, have already confirmed their visits, signaling strong interest in the new lineup.

To facilitate deeper discussions, Hyundai Mobis has chosen a dedicated meeting room on the third floor of the West Hall at the Las Vegas Convention Center as its exhibition space. The setup allows visiting executives to stay longer, explore the technologies in detail, and discuss potential collaborations in a focused setting.

The highlights are the updated M.VICS 7.0 cockpit integrated solution and the X-by-Wire electronic control technology. 

M.VICS, Mobis’s integrated cockpit platform, brings together its advanced infotainment technologies, now refreshed with the 7.0 upgrade. Key features include a holographic windshield display that projects driving information directly onto the glass, a vertically expandable 18.1-inch large display, and a redesigned center-console interface that balances aesthetics with intuitive controls.

The X-by-Wire integrated solution is also expected to draw significant attention. X-by-Wire enables electronic steering and braking control without mechanical connections. By integrating both functions into a single controller, it delivers optimized driving dynamics. The system also includes built-in dual safety: even if a steering issue occurs, the braking system can safely manage the vehicle.

In addition, Hyundai Mobis will feature a range of next-generation technologies across electronics, electrification, and chassis systems, including an augmented-reality head-up display (AR-HUD), low-power display solutions, and cost-efficient, high-performance EV drive systems, offering customers a comprehensive look at its mobility innovations.

  • “Holographic Windshield Display” Earns CES 2026 Innovation Award, Showcasing Hyundai Mobis’s Technical Leadership

The Holographic Windshield Display (HWD) featured in M.VICS 7.0 was named a CES 2026 Innovation Award winner last month by the Consumer Technology Association (CTA), reinforcing Hyundai Mobis’s global competitiveness in display technology. Each year, ahead of the exhibition, CTA recognizes standout technologies across various sectors, and Mobis received the award in the advanced mobility category for its excellence in engineering.

HWD is a next-generation display technology that Hyundai Mobis is developing in collaboration with German optics specialist Zeiss. It is the world’s first system to utilize holographic film to transform the entire front windshield into an ultra-large display surface. 

With this technology, drivers no longer need to glance down at the instrument cluster or other controls. Key driving information appears directly on the windshield, improving both safety and convenience. The passenger side can display separate content, such as videos or games, without being visible to the driver. This allows passengers to enjoy their own infotainment experience while keeping the driver free from distraction.

Hyundai Mobis is currently co-developing the HWD technology with major global customers to further refine and advance the system. The company aims to begin mass production in 2029 and position HWD as one of its core strategic offerings.

Looking ahead, Hyundai Mobis plans to continue expanding its global order pipeline. Through CES, international exhibitions, and roadshows, the company will ramp up promotional efforts in key markets across North America and Europe. These activities align with its goal of increasing the share of global OEM sales in its core component business to 40% by 2033.

About Hyundai Mobis

Hyundai Mobis is the global no. 6 automotive supplier, headquartered in Seoul, Korea. Hyundai Mobis has outstanding expertise in sensors, sensor fusion in ECUs and software development for safety control. The company’s products also include various components for electrification, brakes, chassis and suspension, steering, airbags, lighting, and automotive electronics. Hyundai Mobis operates its R&D headquarters in Korea, with four technology centers in the United States, Germany, China, and India. For more information, please visit the website at http://www.mobis.com.

Media Contact 
Choon Kee Hwangckhwang@mobis.com
Jihyun Han : jihyun.han@mobis.com