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Informal Systems Announces Malachite Acquisition by Circle to Power New Arc Blockchain Network

High-performance BFT consensus engine powers Circle’s new stablecoin-focused Layer-1 blockchain launching in testnet later this year.

TORONTO, Aug. 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Informal Systems, a leader in blockchain infrastructure and protocol design, announced on August 12 that its high-performance consensus engine, Malachite, has been acquired by Circle Internet Group, Inc. (NYSE: CRCL) (Circle), a global financial technology firm, to support the launch of Arc1, a new open Layer-1 blockchain network purpose-built for stablecoin finance. Arc is expected to debut in testnet later this year.

Founded by experts in formal methods and distributed systems, Informal Systems builds transformative technologies to foster trust in software and money. Malachite is the product of years of pioneering work in consensus and verifiability—a Byzantine Fault Tolerant (BFT) consensus engine implementing the Tendermint algorithm in a modular design focused on correctness and efficiency. Originally developed to meet real-world demands for a flexible, reusable foundation for decentralized systems.

Circle’s integration of Malachite will help bring greater performance, reliability, and security to stablecoin-based payments, reinforcing Malachite’s mission to deliver trustworthy, low-cost, and borderless financial infrastructure. The Malachite repository will remain open source under the Apache 2.0 license, ensuring continued industry access and innovation.

“This acquisition is a strong validation of Malachite and of our incubation model,” said Ethan Buchman, CEO at Informal Systems. “Circle’s adoption of Malachite provides a high-impact use case, a robust financial foundation for future development, and ensures our technology contributes to meaningful, mission-aligned outcomes.”

The acquisition aligns with Informal’s broader strategy of spinning out incubated projects to accelerate their growth. Alongside Malachite, Informal is advancing initiatives such as Cycles, Hydro, and Quint, a leading tool for complex distributed systems that supported Malachite’s development. Several Informal team members will join Circle to drive Arc’s development, while Informal continues to support other Malachite use cases and collaborate with industry partners on next-generation blockchain applications.

“We’re proud of the exceptional talent and technical depth nurtured at Informal,” said Arianne Flemming, COO. “This transition reflects our commitment to ensuring that the technologies we create serve the most transformative purposes possible.”

Informal will continue working with leading teams on protocol design and cross-chain infrastructure, offering engineering and security expertise to organizations building with Malachite and beyond. For collaboration inquiries, contact hello@informal.systems.

1 Arc is offered by Circle Technology Services, LLC (“CTS”). CTS is a software provider and does not provide regulated financial or advisory services. You are solely responsible for services you provide to users, including obtaining any necessary licenses or approvals and otherwise complying with applicable laws.

SmallRig × Transformers: Rig Up, Roll Out – Create Beyond

SHENZHEN, China, Aug. 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — SmallRig and Transformers announce a groundbreaking collaboration that brings the essence of Cybertron engineering to professional creators worldwide. This partnership embodies the Transformers philosophy of “More Than Meets The Eye” through fifteen purpose-built tools designed to break through creative limitations, revealing true innovation lies Beyond Limits.

SmallRig × Transformers BUMBLEBEE EDITION
SmallRig × Transformers BUMBLEBEE EDITION

Just as Transformers shatter the boundaries of form, shifting into battle machines, SmallRig’s equipment empowers creators to overcome the physical constraints of shooting, making imagination the only limit. The “BumbleBee Edition” collection represents the perfect fusion of Transformers’ iconic design language and SmallRig’s engineering excellence, proving that true creation is always about going Beyond the Ordinary.

The lineup includes two premium cage kits for Canon and Sony cameras featuring quick release mechanisms and reinforced structural designs, a versatile foldable multitool with eight essential functions, professional monitor supports with enhanced stability, dedicated handles for DJI stabilizers that improve handling and control, advanced shock absorber supports for vibration reduction, a high-performance tripod system with swift deployment, a powerful V-mount battery solution with intelligent power management, and LED video lights with precise color control. Each product showcases BumbleBee’s distinctive black-and-yellow color scheme with laser-etched Autobot insignias and incorporates design elements inspired by Cybertron technology.

What sets this collaboration apart is its deep integration of Transformers’ core principles into professional-grade equipment. The cage kits transform standard camera setups into robust creative platforms, mirroring how Autobots adapt to any challenge. The tripod system features a quick release deployment system, echoing Bumblebee’s legendary agility. The V-mount battery delivers reliable, long-lasting power reminiscent of Cybertron’s energon technology. Every product in the “BumbleBee Edition” has been engineered to help creators go Beyond Yourself, challenging past achievements and unlocking higher levels of creative evolution.

This partnership goes beyond surface-level aesthetics. SmallRig has worked closely with professional cinematographers and content creators to ensure each product addresses real-world creative challenges. The handles for DJI stabilizers feature improved ergonomics based on extensive field testing. The LED lights incorporate advanced diffusion technology developed through collaboration with lighting specialists. The shock absorber support utilizes new materials tested under demanding production conditions.

The “BumbleBee Edition” represents a fundamental shift in how professional tools can inspire creativity. Just as Transformers characters reveal unexpected capabilities, these products unlock new creative potential. The cage kits provide filmmakers with unprecedented flexibility, allowing for swift configuration changes without compromising stability. The multitool combines essential on-set tools in a compact form that would make any Autobot envious. This new ecosystem enables creators with the freedom to focus on their vision rather than technical limitations.

For SmallRig, this collaboration represents the culmination of its mission to develop tools that empower creators to push boundaries. The company’s decade-long commitment to understanding creator needs and listening to their voice has made this ambitious partnership possible. By combining its engineering expertise with Transformers’ rich legacy of innovation and adaptability, SmallRig has created a product line that truly stands apart in the professional creative market, allowing everyone to become their own Bumblebee in their universe.

The “BumbleBee Edition” embodies the shared values of both brands: the belief that true potential often lies beneath the surface, that limitations exist to be overcome, and that the right tools can transform creative vision into reality. For professional creators who demand both performance and inspiration from their equipment, this collection represents a new standard in what creative tools can achieve.

About SmallRig

Since 2013, SmallRig has empowered 2M+ creators worldwide with professional accessory solutions for cameras, gimbals, and mobile phones. Through our User Co-Design (UCD) and DreamRig programs, SmallRig turns ambitious visions into reality.

 

Game Changer: DESLOC Smart Lock D110 Plus Launches with Built-in Wi-Fi and Visible Display Under $100

Smart Lock with Built-in WiFi, LockVue™ Display, and Six Unlock Methods—All in a Sleek, Affordable Package

SAN FRANCISCO, Aug. 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — DESLOC, a glocal leading professional smart lock brand committed to making smart living more accessible, today announced the release of D110 Plus Smart Lock — a smart lock with Built-in Wi-Fi that combines essential smart features, app remote control, and biometric security in one sleek design, all for just $89.99.

At a time when most smart locks with built-in WiFi cost over $150, the D110 Plus delivers true remote convenience and multi-user smart control — without the premium price tag or extra accessories. Designed to meet the real needs of modern households, the D110 Plus gives users powerful functionality at a price that makes smart access truly attainable.


Thanks to its integrated WiFi module, the D110 Plus connects directly to your home network—no external hubs, bridges, or subscription services required. Through the independently developed DESLOC App (iOS & Android), users can lock or unlock their doors remotely, share access codes, view activity logs, and customize notifications based on who unlocks the door. Whether it’s your child coming home from school or a guest arriving early, you’re always in the know.

Built with value and usability in mind, the D110 Plus features:

  • Remote Control:  Manage your smart lock and receive real-time notifications directly on your phone, no gateway needed.
  • Six Unlock Methods: Fingerprint, app, PIN code, voice control (work with Amazon Alexa & Google Assistant), fobs, and mechanical keys.
  • LockVue™ Display: Manage settings and monitor lock status right on the lock.
  • Fingerprint Recognition: FlashPrint algorithm identifies prints in under 0.3s with 99% accuracy—trusted by around 10 million families worldwide.
  • AutoSense Setup: Installs in 10-15 minutes and auto-detects left/right door orientation.
  • BHMA Grade 3 Certified & IP54 Rated: Built to last in tough weather and daily use — withstands temperatures from -22°F to 158°F and humidity levels up to 95%, offering one of the most competitive waterproof ratings in its price range.

The D110 Plus is designed for people who want real smart features—not just buzzwords—with pricing that prioritizes function over fluff, for homeowners, renters, or short-term rental hosts. It also includes must-have safety features like anti-peep PIN protection, anti-hijacking protection, auto-lock, a mechanical key backup, and a Type-C emergency power port, so you’re never locked out. Certified by ClimatePartner and recognized with Amazon’s Climate Pledge Friendly badge, the D110 Plus reflects DESLOC’s commitment to sustainability through verified low carbon impact and third-party standards.

DESLOC Smart Lock was built-up with a simple goal: to bring smart home access to all the families around the world and be a trusted brand. The D110 Plus is now available at only $89.99 on Amazon.com — and for a limited time, enjoy an extra $30 off with code PRD110PLUS at checkout.

About DESLOC
DESLOC is a global professional smart lock brand dedicated to making secure, smart living accessible to all. With over 16 years of industry experience and more than 300 patents, DESLOC builds high-quality smart locks that combine dependable performance with user-first design. Trusted by around 10 million families worldwide, DESLOC continues to lead with innovation that brings smart technology into every home’ security.

 

SKYWORTH Introduces Canvas Elite™ Art TV Series Featuring World’s Largest 100-Inch Art TV

CYPRESS, Calif., Aug. 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — SKYWORTH, a global innovator in advanced display technologies and one of the world’s top five TV brands*, today introduced the Canvas Elite™ Art TV line, featuring the world’s largest Art TV at 100 inches. This groundbreaking addition to SKYWORTH’s Lifestyle Series offers custom integrators and discerning consumers an unprecedented combination of massive scale, cutting-edge performance, and refined elegance. The Canvas Elite™ line also includes an 86-inch model. The series will debut at CEDIA Expo 2025 in Denver at booth #1033.

Revolutionary OmniView Matte Screen™ Technology Deliver  OLED-Level Performance in a Sweeping 100-Inch Format
Revolutionary OmniView Matte Screen™ Technology Deliver OLED-Level Performance in a Sweeping 100-Inch Format

Revolutionary Display Technology Meets Artistic Design
The Canvas Elite™ line represents a convergence of entertainment technology and artistic design, powered by SKYWORTH’s breakthrough OmniView Matte Screen™ technology—a proprietary three-layer screen innovation developed in partnership with BOE that delivers OLED-level performance from Mini LED displays. Featuring 4K UHD QD-Mini LED with over 1,000 local dimming zones, 2,000 nits of peak brightness, and a 144Hz refresh rate, these displays fundamentally reimagine the television form factor, transforming any space into both a premium entertainment hub and a digital art gallery.

“The Canvas Elite™ line establishes SKYWORTH as the category pioneer in large-format art television technology,” said Michael Gleason, Director of Sales, SKYWORTH USA. “With the world’s largest Art TV at 100 inches, we’re completely reimagining how premium displays can enhance living spaces. For custom integrators, it solves the challenge of creating displays that integrate aesthetically into sophisticated environments without compromising performance.”

Expanding the Canvas Portfolio
In addition to the launch of Canvas Elite™ line, SKYWORTH is introducing a 75-inch model to the existing Canvas Art™ TV line, which currently includes 55-inch and 65-inch options. This comprehensive range enables integrators to specify the perfect size for any application while maintaining the signature blend of entertainment and artistic display capabilities.

*According to the latest data from research firm Omdia.

About SKYWORTH
SKYWORTH USA is the North American division of SKYWORTH Group, a leading global electronics company established in 1988 and headquartered in Shenzhen. SKYWORTH’s strong international reputation is based on innovation, quality, and sustainability principles. Headquartered in Cypress, CA, SKYWORTH USA focuses on providing consumers with affordable, high-quality indoor and outdoor TVs and other home electronics through its innovative Lifestyle Series product portfolio.

Roborock Marks 11th Anniversary with Unbeatable Deals and a Glimpse into the Future of Cleaning

Global Leader in Smart Home Robotics Offers Discount on Saros Z70 and Introduces F25 Ultra for Pre-Order 

HONG KONG, Aug. 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Roborock, the #1 selling robot vacuum brand worldwide, is celebrating its 11th anniversary with a new brand campaign, “Rocking 11 Years. By Your Side.” To mark this significant milestone and express a heartfelt thanks to the millions of users that have made Roborock a trusted part of their lives, the brand is offering discount on its flagship model, the Saros Z70 and giving fans an exclusive first look at its latest product, the F25 Ultra, a cutting-edge steam-powered washer.

Roborock's 11th anniversary campaign, “Rocking 11 Years. By Your Side.”
Roborock’s 11th anniversary campaign, “Rocking 11 Years. By Your Side.”

Over the last 11 years, Roborock has grown from an ambitious startup into a global leader in smart home cleaning – a journey made possible by the support of its customers. From morning cereal spills to late-night pet messes, the brand has supported families for over a decade. This anniversary campaign celebrates that success and reaffirms the brand’s steadfast commitment to innovation and reliability.

“From Roborock’s very first robot vacuum to our latest offerings, our user-centric approach has been at the heart of everything we do,” said Quan Gang, President of Roborock. “This 11-year anniversary is more than a celebration of how far we’ve come – it’s an expression of gratitude to the Roborock community that has supported us along the way. As we look to the future, we remain committed to pushing the boundaries of intelligent cleaning and delivering solutions that truly improve everyday life.”

From August 29 to September 4, consumers can shop the exclusive anniversary deals on the official Roborock website.

Unprecedented Savings on the Flagship Saros Z70

To commemorate 11 years of Roborock, the brand is offering its largest-ever discount on the Saros Z70. Known for its revolutionary OmniGrip™ five-axis mechanical arm, the Z70 can move and lift objects like socks and sports shoes with enhanced accuracy and placement.

Engineered for deep cleaning, it boasts 22,000Pa suction, a FreeFlow Main Brush with a 0% Hair Tangling Side Brush, and an upgraded hot water mopping system to tackle the toughest stains. The FlexiArm Riser Side Brush and Mop extend to ensure floor coverage around corners and edges, while the StarSight Autonomus System 2.0 uses VertiBeam Lateral Obstacle Avoidance to navigate with precision and can bypass over 108 obstacles. Additionally, the AdaptiLift Chassis automatically adjusts for seamless transitions across floor types, climbing thresholds up to 4cm and lifting the mop up to 22mm on carpet.

During the anniversary sale, the Saros Z70 will be available at an unbeatable price of $1,599 (originally $2,599 MSRP).

Introducing the All-New F25 Ultra Steam-Powered Floor Washer

Roborock is thrilled to offer users a sneak peek at the future of home cleaning with the introduction of the F25 Ultra, an industry-first floor washer that will be available for pre-order during the anniversary sale period at an exclusive price of $599 (MSRP $799). This dual mode cleaner offers 50°C high-temperature steam cleaning and 86°C hot water cleaning. This capability, combined with 22,000Pa suction power, allows it to tackle hardened stains, greasy messes, and everyday dirt in a single pass.

Beneath its sleek exterior, the F25 Ultra is equipped with proprietary technologies designed for performance and ease. The VaporFlow™ steam system delivers deep sanitization, while WaveFlow™ ensures powerful hot water degreasing. Its JawScrapers™ roller is built for a tangle-free, streak-free clean, and SlideTech™ 2.0 dual motor-powered wheels provide intelligent push-pull motion with minimal effort. Thanks to the FlatReach™ 2.0 design, the F25 Ultra also cleans with ease under low-profile furniture and features a smart blue-light detection system to reveal hidden dust and grime in real time.

While the F25 Ultra will officially go on sale September, consumers can pre-order it at a discounted price of $599 (a $200 saving) starting on August 29.

To celebrate Roborock’s 11th anniversary and shop these exclusive deals, visit us.roborock.com. For more information on Roborock and to explore additional products, please visit us.roborock.com.

About Roborock 

Roborock is a leading smart cleaning brand renowned for its intelligent cleaning solutions. With a steadfast dedication to becoming a global leading smart appliance player, Roborock enriches lives with its innovative line of robotic, cordless, wet/dry vacuum cleaners, and washer-dryers. Rooted in a user-centric approach, our R&D-driven solutions cater to diverse cleaning needs in over 15 million homes across 170+ countries. Headquartered in Beijing and with strategic subsidiaries in key markets, including the United States, Japan, the Netherlands, Poland, Germany, and South Korea, Roborock is dedicated to elevating its market presence worldwide. For more information, visit https://global.roborock.com/

Media Contact:
Ashley Hu
hujingjie@roborock.com

LILYSILK Launches First-Ever Activewear Line with Innovative SILKERRY™ Fabric

NEW YORK, Aug. 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — LILYSILK, the world’s leading silk brand dedicated to inspiring people to live spectacular, sustainable lives, has unveiled the SILKERRY™ Collection, its first activewear line crafted from the brand’s proprietary silk-enhanced terry fabric. Designed to unite luxury with ease, SILKERRY™ combines the breathable plushness of cotton terry with the naturally cooling, skin-friendly qualities of high-content natural silk. The launch marks LILYSILK’s entry into the modern activewear category, offering pieces that transition effortlessly from yoga studios to urban streets.

LILYSILK Launches First-Ever Activewear Line: SILKERRY™
LILYSILK Launches First-Ever Activewear Line: SILKERRY™

SILKERRY™ redefines terry fabric by weaving natural silk fibers directly into the cotton terry interior, creating an ultra-smooth surface that glides over skin, reduces friction, and helps maintain freshness through silk’s natural antimicrobial properties. Its high thermal conductivity draws heat away for instant cooling, while moisture-wicking capabilities keep the wearer comfortable during movement. The outer layer of natural cotton terry provides structure, breathability, and durability, ensuring each piece retains its shape and softness through repeated wear and washing.

The creation of SILKERRY™ is rooted in LILYSILK’s 15 years of consumer research, which identified a shift in modern lifestyles. Activewear has evolved beyond gym use into an everyday wardrobe staple, with consumers seeking garments that combine functional versatility with refined aesthetics. LILYSILK’s response is a collection that meets this demand, offering a seamless balance of elegance and versatility.

“Activewear isn’t just for the gym anymore. As fitness, work, and life blend seamlessly, people expect apparel that delivers both style and elegance,” said David Wang, CEO of LILYSILK. “SILKERRY™ brings the luxury of silk into movement apparel, creating pieces that move effortlessly from yoga mats to city streets.”

The debut SILKERRY™ Collection introduces three distinct style lines, each with its own concept and signature piece, and all available in four versatile colorways—Black, Heather, Espresso, and Blush Pink. Seamflow, inspired by the rhythm and structure of city life, blends polished design with easy movement, highlighted by the hip-length, oversized Seamflow Verge Hoodie with practical pockets and a smooth zip closure. Porchlight captures the warmth and ease of everyday living, offering relaxed yet refined silhouettes such as the soft-waistband Porchlight Lounge Shorts, ideal from home to café. Heirloom ’89 pays tribute to timeless classics with a touch of vintage sport, anchored by the roomy yet refined Heirloom ’89 Zip Jacket, designed for comfort, confidence, and lasting style.

Discover the SILKERRY™ Collection and more at www.lilysilk.com.

Ansell Receives Frost & Sullivan’s 2025 Global Sustainable Hospital Supplies Company of the Year Award

Ansell is recognised for its leadership in hospital supply sustainability, visionary innovation, and customer impact on a global scale.

SAN ANTONIO, Aug. 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Frost & Sullivan, a leader in the information and growth advisory industry, has awarded the title of “2025 Global Sustainable Hospital Supplies Company of the Year” to Ansell, a global provider of safety solutions. Recognised for its outstanding achievements in innovation and customer impact, Ansell is focused on driving sustainable innovation by using fewer or safer materials and continuously improving its manufacturing operations to reduce environmental impact.

Every year, Frost & Sullivan presents the Company of the Year Recognition to a company that demonstrates outstanding strategic vision and execution in driving the development of sustainable hospital supplies. Frost & Sullivan evaluates organizations through a rigorous benchmarking process across two core dimensions of strategy effectiveness and execution.

Ansell excelled in both as a result of its commitment to Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) carbon emissions reduction targets, and the implementation of innovations such as SMART Pack™, a solution that reduces packaging waste and carbon emissions during product shipping. Its acquisition of the RightCycle™ recycling program will soon expand its sustainability footprint across the healthcare supply ecosystem.

Ansell Earth played a significant role in our decision,” said Utkarsha Soundankar, Industry Analyst at Frost & Sullivan. “It is Ansell’s dedicated product portfolio that showcases the sustainability credentials of its offerings, enabling customers to make informed and responsible choices. Ansell Earth products are designed with reduced environmental impact without compromising performance or quality, achieved through sustainable materials, improved manufacturing efficiency, and more sustainable end-of-use solutions.”

“The 2025 Global Sustainable Hospital Supplies Company of the Year award is a great honor and a clear recognition of Ansell’s leadership in providing sustainable hospital supplies to healthcare customers,” said Neil Salmon, CEO at Ansell. “From innovating products with more environmentally responsible materials to cutting carbon emissions across our operations, Ansell is proud to deliver solutions that continue to help medical customers achieve their sustainability goals.”

Frost & Sullivan commends Ansell for prioritizing sustainability goals, including waste reduction and sustainable design, while meeting the stringent quality and hygiene standards of the healthcare sector.

About Frost & Sullivan

For six decades, Frost & Sullivan has been world-renowned for its role in helping investors, corporate leaders, and governments navigate economic changes and identify disruptive technologies, megatrends, new business models, and companies to action, resulting in a continuous flow of growth opportunities to drive future success. Contact us: Start the discussion.

Contact:
Ashley Shreve
E: ashley.weinkauf@frost.com

About Ansell

Ansell (ASX: ANN) is a global leader in safety solutions and an integrated manufacturer of personal protection equipment for healthcare and industrial workplaces. Each day, over 10 million workers in more than 100 countries trust their safety to Ansell brands such as HyFlex, Ringers, MICROFLEX, TouchNTuff, GAMMEX, Kimtech, KleenGuard, and AlphaTec. Driven by a vision to lead the world to a safer future, the company continuously pursues new product and service innovations that predict, prevent, and protect against workplace risk while promoting sustainable sourcing and manufacturing.

Information on Ansell and its products can be found at www.ansell.com. #AnsellProtects

Pony.ai Attracts Premium Capital as Funds Chase the Next Tech Transformation

GUANGZHOU, China, Aug. 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Leading investment management firms are backing Pony.ai.

Recent corporate filings reveal ARK Invest, Cathie Wood’s firm, invested roughly US$12.9 million in the Chinese autonomous driving company in August. This marks ARK’s first investment in a Chinese firm solely focused on Level 4 (L4) autonomous driving technology development and commercialization.

ARK wasn’t alone in backing Pony.ai. Exchange and corporate filings reveal the robotaxi operator attracted at least 14 major global institutional investors in Q2, including prominent names like Baillie Gifford and Nikko Asset Management – firms renowned for successful investments in Tesla, Tencent, Alibaba, and Meituan. This broad backing stands in sharp contrast to many U.S. investors shifting away from Chinese assets amid geopolitical tensions and tariffs clouding the growth outlook.

ARK’s strategy is clear: invest in emerging high-tech companies Wood believes can transform industries. As detailed in ARK’s “Big Ideas 2025” report, the firm projected the ride-hailing market could surge to a US$10 trillion value by 2030, with global robotaxi fleets potentially reaching around 50 million vehicles. As Wood has emphasized, a robotaxi company’s success hinges significantly on its cost optimization. Pony.ai’s recent earnings and outlook provided compelling reasons for investor confidence.

In Q2, the company reported a striking 158% year-on-year increase in robotaxi revenues. This growth was supported by the ramped-up production of its seventh-generation robotaxi models. By expanding its fleet and securing more regulatory permits in densely populated urban centers, Pony.ai is meeting rising user demand.

More importantly, Pony.ai outlined a clear path to profitability – offering the rare certainty investors seek.

Founder and CEO James Peng highlighted key factors in a recent CNBC interview: “Unit economics are paramount. The Gen-7 vehicle boasts a 70% lower cost than its predecessor. We’ve also significantly reduced operational costs: our remote assistant-to-vehicle ratio has been significantly improved and it is expected to hit 1:30 by the end of the year, insurance costs fell 18%, and ground support and charging operations are more efficient.”

“Based on these metrics,” Peng added, “we are confident in Gen-7’s unit-level profitability. Further scaling the fleet will then drive corporate-level profitability.” Pony.ai targets a fleet of 1,000 robotaxis by year-end – a threshold the company believes will achieve positive unit economics. Progress is rapid: just two months after unveiling Gen-7 at the late-April Shanghai Auto Show, around 200 new vehicles have rolled off production lines, bringing the total fleet to roughly 500 units.

Beyond production, Pony.ai is accelerating user acquisition. Regulators recently granted the company a commercial permit to operate fare-charging services in parts of Shanghai’s Pudong areas, the financial heart of the eastern Chinese city. This makes Pony.ai the only company with fully-driverless commercial permits across all four Chinese tier-1 megacities (Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen).

Service hours have also expanded to 24/7 in Guangzhou and Shenzhen. Furthermore, a recent partnership will integrate Pony.ai’s robotaxi service into Tencent’s ubiquitous WeChat platform, unlocking access to its massive user base exceeding one billion.

Bolstered by a clearer commercial outlook and solid safety and tech validation, Pony.ai is winning favor not just with funds, but also recognition from analysts. Following the Q2 earnings release, major institutions including Goldman Sachs, Huatai, UBS, and Daiwa all rated the stock “buy”. Goldman set a price target of US$24.5, indicating 54.5% upside compared to Pony.ai’s closing price of US$15.86 on August 15.

UBS analysts, in an Aug. 5 research note, stated: “By the late 2030s, we expect the robotaxi market value to reach US$183 billion in China and US$394 billion in international markets excluding the U.S., assuming gradual operational expansion and improving regulatory clarity.” Pony.ai is best positioned for robotaxi commercialization, the UBS analysts added.