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Over 160 Accidents, 15 Deaths Reported During 2025 Lao New Year Celebrations

Laos Records Over 160 Accidents, 15 Deaths During 2025 New Year
On 14 April, a red SUV crashed into a red three-wheeled vehicle that was parked on a side road at 2:19 am in Phonepapao Village, Chanthabouly district, Vientiane Capital. (photo credit: Sebastien Perret)

The 2025 Lao New Year celebrations, held from 14 to 16 April, saw 15 fatalities and over 160 road accidents nationwide.

Huawei Launches Five Aviation Solutions to Accelerate Intelligence

MADRID, April 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — During the Passenger Terminal Expo 2025, Huawei launched five aviation solutions including the Smart Airport Intelligent Operation Center (IOC) to advance intelligent industry upgrades.

Huawei deeply integrates novel technologies with aviation services to create the architecture of intelligent digital twins that synergizes connectivity, cloud, AI, computing, and application. This architecture aims to significantly enhance operational efficiency, business value, safety, and passenger experience.

  • Huawei’s Smart Airport IOC enables precise and efficient decision-making through all-domain situational awareness. With Total Airport Management (TAM) concept at its heart, the IOC streamlines production and operations systems and seamlessly connects more than 30 airport production systems, providing a holistic view on one map. It monitors operations in real time, deploys service resources in advance, proactively handles disruptions, strengthens security management, and improves passenger experience.
  • Huawei’s Smart Airport Perimeter Security with Fiber Sensing Solution elevates airport operational security. Using innovative technologies like Huawei’s distributed fiber optic sensing and AI sensing algorithms, the solution can precisely identify airfield intrusions under harsh weather conditions. It misses no alarms and generates very few false alarms.
  • Huawei’s Digital and Intelligent Platform for Airports based on cloud, data, and AI makes airport operations smarter, more efficient, and more secure.
    • Cloud: Core services are migrated to the cloud for active-active deployment, ensuring zero data losses. The recovery time is shortened from 1 hour to just 5 minutes, meeting the 99.99% availability requirement.
    • Data: The platform builds a comprehensive data governance system alongside a robust data foundation to deliver high-quality data for intelligent applications.
    • AI: Huawei provides advanced AI capabilities and supports open and compatible mainstream models and engines.
  • Huawei’s Xinghe Intelligent Airport Integrated Data Network Solution builds a high-quality and highly reliable communications network. Wi-Fi 7 enhances the passenger experience and boosts bandwidth for VIP passengers by 20% through its VIP assurance technology. Huawei’s exclusive Wi-Fi Shield adopts noise superposition to prevent data from being stolen during air interface transmission and protect data.
  • Huawei’s Smart Airport Fully Connected All-Optical Network utilizes IP and Passive Optical LAN (POL). It introduces the first 10G M45 panel-type Optical Network Unit (ONU) — the OptiXstar P892M — for airports, which supports multiple installation modes such as tabletop, wall embedding, and floor cylinder.


To date, more than 210 airports, airlines, and air traffic management authorities the world over have chosen Huawei.

 

Fliggy Launches AI Travel Assistant “AskMe” to Make Customized Travel Even More Accessible

Powered by a multi-agent system to offer precise, real-time trip planning

HANGZHOU, China, April 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Fliggy, a leading online travel services platform and a wholly-owned subsidiary of Alibaba Group (NYSE: BABA and HKEX: 9988), today unveiled “AskMe”, an AI travel assistant powered by multiple intelligent agents. Designed to emulate the problem-solving and task-execution capabilities of professional travel consultants, AskMe leverages Fliggy’s proprietary data, including flights, hotels, attractions, and curated experiences, to generate actionable and personalized travel itineraries.

Integrated with Alibaba’s Qwen AI models, AskMe employs a multi-agent collaboration system to accurately identify and process complex travel requests. Functioning as a 24/7 AI-powered travel consultant, it autonomously breaks down tasks, plans workflows, and deploys specialized sub-agents to deliver real-time, bookable itineraries.

Miranda Liu, Head of AI Product at Fliggy, said: “Travel is inherently personal, yet planning often involves overwhelming choices across flights, hotels, tickets, ground transportation, and activities, leading to decision fatigue. While bespoke travel services remain costly, Fliggy has amassed a vast amount of data on products, destinations, experiences and user reviews. This data, coupled with our proprietary expertise in supply chains and services, is essential for training AI. By applying the strengths of AI, we’re turning what was previously perceived as a luxury service into something every traveler can experience.”

One assistant, multiple experts

Users simply input their requests and AskMe instantly analyzes their needs and activates specialized AI experts accordingly. These experts scour Fliggy’s live pricing engine for flights, hotels, routes, and attractions, then compile and cost-optimize a coherent plan, including round-trip tickets, daily hotel stays, sightseeing routes, and dining recommendations, with direct booking links.

AskMe also allows real-time edits. Its budget-adjustment feature lets users tweak spending preferences with one click, triggering an instant regeneration of the itinerary.

Multimodal interaction and shareable outputs

Aside from text input, AskMe also supports voice commands (including different dialects) and delivers visually rich itineraries complete with images, product information, and interactive maps instead of returning just plain text. Users can even generate hand-drawn travel guides for social media sharing.

High-quality travel data as key differentiator

A key differentiator of AskMe lies in its superior data quality. The AI assistant is trained using Fliggy’s proprietary, high-quality travel scenario datasets and integrated with the platform’s real-time pricing engine, which includes live flight and hotel prices, inventory status, travel routes, attractions, and a full range of other travel services. This data ecosystem ensures users receive the most accurate and up-to-date travel information alongside fully bookable options.

In evaluations across five critical dimensions—accuracy, coherence, richness, utility, and customization—AskMe has demonstrated exceptional performance, particularly in the accuracy and coherence metrics. Fliggy is developing additional features to AskMe for future release.

“Our team meticulously studied human travel consultants’ workflows, embedding their expertise into AskMe’s analysis, execution, and decision-making nodes. We’ll continue to refine its industry knowledge for deeper, more empathetic customization while making interactions even smarter. Ultimately, we aim to provide our users with an AI that offers a human touchone that helps them effortlessly craft their perfect trip,” added Liu.

AskMe is currently available to Fliggy F5 members and above, with access granted via invite codes from existing users.

About Fliggy

Fliggy is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Alibaba Group (NYSE: BABA and HKEX: 9988 (HKD Counter) and 89988 (RMB Counter)), and is one of the leading online travel platforms in China. Fliggy places a strong emphasis on innovation in its products and services, catering to the increasingly personalized and diversified needs of consumers in both China and overseas markets.

Leveraging Fliggy’s advantage as part of the Alibaba ecosystem, merchants can benefit from the vast user base within the Group. Fliggy also collaborates with partners through a full-service management format, helping more merchants, especially small and medium-sized ones, easily and efficiently share opportunities enabled by digitalization.

Fliggy’s long-term strategy is to promote the digital transformation of the tourism industry, using an open platform and mechanisms to help the industry make better use of digital business infrastructure for their operations.

2025 Chengdu International Friendship Cities Cooperation and Development Forum Kicks Off in Chengdu


CHENGDU, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 17 April 2025 – On April 16, the “2025 Chengdu International Friendship Cities Cooperation and Development Forum”, hosted by the Chengdu Municipal People’s Government and organized by the Foreign Affairs Office of the Chengdu Municipal People’s Government, officially kicked off in Chengdu.

2025 Chengdu International Friendship Cities Cooperation and Development Forum

This conference was themed on “Hand in Hand, Sharing and Winning Together”. Major activities included the opening ceremony, mayor’s roundtable, thematic promotion sessions, thematic inspections, as well as multiple bilateral meetings and relevant side events.

To deepen cooperation between Chengdu and the five Central Asian countries in areas such as trade, investment, infrastructure, and culture, Chengdu has established the Central Asia Economic and Trade Promotion Association, which will hold its unveiling ceremony during the conference.

Mr. Dewit, Chairman of the Belgian-Chinese Chamber of Commerce, believed that Chengdu serves as an important gateway for Belgium to access markets in Western and Central China. He remarked: “Chengdu and Belgium have a solid foundation in the pharmaceutical and technology sectors. Sichuan Airlines has opened a number of cargo flights to Belgium, and it is expected to usher in direct passenger flights in the future. In the field of education, universities in the two places should establish closer ties to promote students’ exchanges.”

As a hub for international exchanges in western China, Chengdu has built a network of 241 “international friendship cities” since it established its first sister-city relationship with Montpellier, France, in 1981. These sister cities have not only facilitated diverse cultural exchanges and interactions with Chengdu, but also injected new vitality into Chengdu’s economic development, technological innovation, educational cooperation and other fields.

As one of the best epitomes of the ongoing deepening exchanges and cooperation between Chengdu and the EU, the “2025 Chengdu * European Cultural Season” and the “European Style Street” series of events, organized by the EU Delegation in China, were also held on April 12 in the Chengdu Eastern Suburb Memory Park.

Since its inception in 2017, the “Chengdu * European Cultural Season” has been successfully hosted eight times, forging a bridge of friendship that enhances mutual understanding and cultural exchange between the people of Chengdu and Europe.

In recent years, exchanges and cooperation between Chengdu and EU countries have been continuously deepening. Currently, Chengdu has established international friendship and cooperative relations with 31 cities in EU member states, and there are 11 cargo and passenger routes between Chengdu and the EU. In 2024, Chengdu’s import and export volume to the EU reached 142.16 billion yuan.

In February 2025, the signing ceremony of memorandum of friendship and cooperation between Asti, Italy and Tianfu New District, Sichuan, was held in Chengdu. Maurizio Rasero, Governor of Asti Province and Mayor of Asti, Italy, stated that as an important historical and cultural city in Italy and a hub for the wine industry and machinery manufacturing, Asti has vast potential for cooperation with Chengdu in industrial development and scientific and technological innovation.

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

Central government backs HK as digital hub

BEIJING, April 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — A news report from chinadaily.com.cn:

The Main Forum on the Digital Intelligence Future at the 2025 World Internet Conference Asia-Pacific Summit was held in Hong Kong on April 14. [Photo/wicinternet.org]
The Main Forum on the Digital Intelligence Future at the 2025 World Internet Conference Asia-Pacific Summit was held in Hong Kong on April 14. [Photo/wicinternet.org]

The central government has pledged full support for Hong Kong’s deeper integration into the global digital landscape, vowing to help the city seize emerging opportunities in the booming digital economy.

Officials and experts made the remarks at the World Internet Conference on Monday. For the first time, the annual event launched its Asia-Pacific summit outside the Chinese mainland, placing artificial intelligence and digital technologies at center stage.

Wang Yong, vice-chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference, said digital integration is now a key force driving productivity reform and sustainable regional development.

He outlined China’s stance on digital governance, stating, “China promotes the joint building of a fair and just cyberspace and governance system with various countries. We advocate respect for each country’s network sovereignty and management models, while rejecting zero-sum games and technological bullying.”

Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu described the summit as “a testament to Hong Kong’s rising role as an international innovation and technology hub”, and said it also reflects “our deep integration with our country’s national development”.

Lee emphasized the importance of international cooperation “especially during these challenging times to geopolitics and trade relations”, reaffirming that “Hong Kong champions free trade and multilateralism.”

Hong Kong welcomes all business interests from those who are keen to pursue developments with us in this global city,” he said.

Zhuang Rongwen, head of the Cyberspace Administration of China, said breakthroughs in new technologies such as AI are having far-reaching impacts on economic growth, social progress and the global political and economic landscape.

“Chinese research institutions and technology companies continue to introduce innovative achievements such as large language models, bringing strong momentum to the development of China, the Asia-Pacific region and the world,” he said. “This also provides opportunities for building a community with a shared future in cyberspace.”

Zheng Yanxiong, director of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, called Hong Kong a “pioneer region in internet development” with long-standing strengths in finance, shipping and trade, and emerging advantages in AI research, innovation and talent.

He cited Hong Kong’s institutional innovation, bilingual capabilities, cultural openness and international connectivity as unique strengths, and urged the city to take a leading role in Asia-Pacific digital integration.

“We must accelerate the construction of the Northern Metropolis, relying on Hong Kong Science Park and Cyberport, and join forces with major cooperation platforms such as the Qianhai Shenzhen-Hong Kong Modern Service Industry Cooperation Zone, the Lok Ma Chau Loop, and Guangzhou’s Nansha District,” Zheng said.

He said such efforts would attract enterprises in the digital integration field and form industrial clusters spanning artificial intelligence, big data, cloud computing and blockchain.

Zheng also emphasized leveraging the “one country, two systems” framework to build cross-border data flow mechanisms aligned with international rules, promoting secure and orderly data circulation and resource sharing.

Nearly 1,000 delegates attended the two-day event, representing government agencies, businesses, international organizations and academia from about 30 countries and regions.

Zhang Donggang, Party secretary of the Renmin University of China, underlined the importance of talent development in the digital sector.

“The high-quality development of digital finance depends on a cohort of high-caliber, versatile professionals who understand both finance and technology,” he said.

“Only with a large number of outstanding financial talents who possess vision, responsibility and passion can we truly advance digital inclusive financial innovation and achieve sustainable development with inclusive coverage.”

On the sidelines of the conference, John Hoffman, CEO of GSMA Ltd, noted that on a global scale, artificial intelligence is emerging as a powerful force with the potential to transform businesses and society in unprecedented ways.

Over the next 10-20 years, McKinsey, a global management consulting firm, estimates that AI could bring up to $680 billion in benefits to the telecommunications industry, he said. Hoffman said the company is at the forefront of adopting AI and hopes to drive more value by empowering consumers and businesses through artificial intelligence.

 

Samsung Unveils ‘AI Home’ Vision with New Bespoke AI Appliances

Innovative appliances that boast upgraded AI and intuitive screens, built upon Samsung’s security and intelligence fundamentals to simplify home living.

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 17 April 2025 – Samsung Electronics Singapore announced the launch of its Bespoke AI appliances showcased at its global event, Welcome to Bespoke AI. Building on the “AI Home” vision introduced at CES 2025, the latest suite of appliances will embody Samsung’s transformative approach to mark a new era of intelligent home living.

Samsung Unveils ‘AI Home’ Vision with New Bespoke AI Appliances

The following Bespoke AI appliances are currently available in Singapore:

“Samsung has long led the way in home appliance innovation. This year, we’re elevating the smart home experience by redefining how we deliver secure and intuitive AI solutions that enhance everyday convenience. Users can look forward to transforming their daily routines with our Bespoke AI lineup that boast advanced, intelligent features to help simplify chores. An upgraded Bixby voice assistant, along with the integration of Samsung Knox features and SmartThings makes it easier to maintain a secure smart home with connected devices,” said Gavin Yeong, Head of Digital Appliances, Samsung Electronics Singapore.

The 9” AI Home Screen helps to simplify food management, while enhancing home connectivity and efficiency, communication and entertainment for modern homeowners.

The 9” AI Home Screen helps to simplify food management, while enhancing home connectivity and efficiency, communication and entertainment for modern homeowners.

An AI Home Experience to Bring “Easy to Use, Care and Saving” to Consumers
Users can look forward to more advanced AI-enhanced experience with the Bespoke AI line-up, where intelligent features are thoughtfully embedded to help homeowners better manage their home routines through the core benefits of Easy to Use, Care and Saving.

At the heart of the company’s vision is the AI Home screen[1] featured on the Bespoke AI Refrigerator. The 9″ smart display serves as a central control hub to connect Samsung smart appliances along with supported third party devices through SmartThings without the need for a separate hub device.[2] Users can also utilise features like the refrigerators’ Daily Board to receive personalised information and better manage their day — or use Map View to effortlessly monitor and control other connected devices. Homeowners can also track and optimise energy consumption with the AI Energy Mode accessed through the SmartThings app.

Moreover, the new Bespoke AI appliances bring enhanced features that adapt to consumer needs.

Experience the future of laundry with the Bespoke AI Top Load Washer, featuring innovative AI-powered technologies such as AI Wash, AI Energy Mode, and AI Vibration Reduction Technology Plus (VRT+). These advanced features provide a more intelligent, efficient, and quiet washing experience.

Samsung’s AI Wash[3] intelligently senses the fabric type and weight to automatically recommend the optimal settings for each wash. Homeowners can look forward to a simplified laundry process while ensuring that their garments receive the best possible cleaning and care. Besides ensuring thorough cleaning experiences, the Bespoke AI Top Load Washer features AI VRT+ technology, which senses the floor condition and adjusts the machine vibration to effectively reduce floor vibration for a quieter and more stable washing experience.

Samsung also continues to innovate its vacuum cleaner lineup. The Bespoke AI Jet Ultra will be launched with the world’s most powerful9 suction power of up to 400W.10 The upgraded AI Cleaning Mode11 tackles more diverse environments12 like corners13 and the type of carpets14 for improved cleaning performance.

The Bespoke AI Top Load Washer streamlines and simplifies laundry experiences for homeowners
The Bespoke AI Top Load Washer streamlines and simplifies laundry experiences for homeowners

These new Bespoke AI appliances join the Bespoke AI WindFree™ Air Conditioner to complete Samsung’s suite of Bespoke AI appliances to offer unmatched innovation and convenience. Launched in 2024, the Bespoke AI WindFree™ Air Conditioner leverages advanced WindFree™ technology and AI to intuitively meet users’ cooling needs, seamlessly switching between WindFree™ Cooling and Fast Cooling modes with AI Auto Cooling.

Bixby’s latest upgrade brings smarter home control to Bespoke AI appliances, through voice commands and enhances usability through new features like Voice ID[4]. It personalises services by recognising the user’s voice, automatically switching to the Samsung account of the speaker and showing their calendar on the screen.

Continued Efforts to Deliver Reliable Experiences
Samsung Knox sits at the core of Samsung’s connected home appliances to ensure that homeowners are adequately protected against cyberattacks and their privacy are safeguarded.

The Bespoke AI Jet Ultra is a home cleaning workhorse that combines performance with efficiency for maximum cleanliness
The Bespoke AI Jet Ultra is a home cleaning workhorse that combines performance with efficiency for maximum cleanliness

The latest Samsung Bespoke AI appliances will have enhanced Knox security applied so that users will be able to enjoy their AI Home experience with peace of mind. As one of the major updates, Trust Chain, which is part of Knox Matrix, is applied to all Wi-Fi enabled appliances launching in 2025. Users can continuously monitor products’ security status in real time through the dashboard.[5]

Knox Vault[6] is also applied to home appliances, to store sensitive user information, such as passwords and authentication information, in a separate hardware chip to ensure maximum protection. Furthermore, to protect against the potential of future quantum attacks, Samsung’s security is also equipped with post-quantum cryptography (PQC), a part of Knox Matrix Credential Sync, for its screen-applied products.[7]

For more information on the 2025 Bespoke AI appliance lineup, please visit the respective newsroom links provided above and the Samsung Online Store.

Appendix

Bespoke AI Refrigerator
Local Pricing and Availability
The Bespoke AI Refrigerator, along with the other Side-by-Side refrigerator models, are now available for purchase on the Samsung Online Store and major consumer electronics stores (Best Denki, Courts, Gain City, Harvey Norman).

Consumers who purchase the latest Bespoke AI Refrigerator from now till 7 May will receive $150 worth of Mooments Vouchers[8].

The Recommended Retail Prices for the Samsung Bespoke AI Refrigerator SBS models are as follows:

Model Colour RRP
Bespoke AI Refrigerator SBS – AI Home

RS90F65D3FSS

Black DOI $3,999
Bespoke AI Refrigerator SBS – AI Energy Mode

RS80F65J3BSS

Black Glass $3,299
Bespoke AI Refrigerator SBS – AI Energy Mode

RS70F65K3FSS

Black DOI $2,699
Bespoke AI Refrigerator SBS – AI Energy Mode

RS70F65Q3FSS RS70F65Q3TSS

Black DOI

Matt DOI Metal

$2,199

Product Specifications
Bespoke AI Refrigerator SBS – AI Home

Model Code RS90F65D3FSS
Capacity Net Total (Liter) 615 ℓ
Net for Freezer (Liter) 218 ℓ
Net for Fridge (Liter) 397 ℓ
Physical specification Width x Depth x Height (mm) 912 x 716 x 1786
Net Weight (kg) 122 kg
Packing Weight (kg) 129 kg
Cooling Feature Power Cool Function Yes
Power Freeze Function Yes
Cooling Type All-Around Cooling System
Refrigerator Feature Deodoriser Type UV Deodoriser
Number of Shelf (Total) 4 EA
Wine Rack Yes
Number of Door Pocket 5 EA
Interior LED Light Top LED
Shelf Material Tempered Glass
Number of Vegetable & Fruit Drawer 2 EA
Freezer Feature Number of Shelf (Total) 4 EA
Number of Door Pocket 2 EA
Icemaker Indoor I/M
Interior LED Light Top LED
Number of Drawer 2 EA
General Feature Refrigerant R-600a
Cooling Cover Metal Cooling Duct
Compressor AI Inverter Compressor
Exterior Feature Display Type 9″ LCD AI Home
Door Handle Recess
Colour BLACK DOI
Dispenser Type I&W Dispenser (Non-Plumbing, with Water Tank)
Door Open Type Auto Open Door
Energy Energy Grade 3 ticks
Smart Wi-Fi Embedded Yes
Camera No
Mobile Bixby Yes
Set Bixby (Mic) Yes
Speaker Yes
Bluetooth Yes
App Connectivity SmartThings App Support Yes

*Note: Specifications subject to changes without prior notice

Bespoke AI Refrigerator SBS – AI Energy Mode

Model Code RS80F65J3BSS RS70F65K3FSS RS70F65Q3FSS RS70F65Q3TSS
Capacity Net Total (Liter) 634 ℓ 635 ℓ 655 ℓ 655 ℓ
Net for Freezer (Liter) 218 ℓ 218 ℓ 237 ℓ 237 ℓ
Net for Fridge (Liter) 416 ℓ 417 ℓ 418 ℓ 418 ℓ
Physical specification Net Width (mm)

Width x Depth x Height (mm)

912 x 716 x 1786 912 x 716 x 1786 912 x 716 x 1780 912 x 716 x 1780
Net Weight (kg) 126 kg 120 kg 98 kg 98 kg
Package Weight (kg) 127 kg 127 kg 105 kg 105 kg
Cooling Feature Power Cool Function Yes Yes Yes Yes
Power Freeze Function Yes Yes Yes Yes
Cooling Type All-Around Cooling System
Refrigerator Feature Metal Cooling Duct Yes Yes No No
Deodoriser Type UV Deodoriser Deodoriser
Wine Rack Yes No No No
Number of Shelf (Total) 4 EA
Number of Door Pocket 5 EA
Interior LED Light Top LED
Shelf Material Tempered Glass
Number of Vegetable & Fruit Drawer 2 EA
Freezer Feature Number of Shelf (Total) 4 EA
Number of Door Pocket 2 ea 2 ea 5 ea 5 ea
Icemaker Indoor I/M Indoor I/M Twist I/M Twist I/M
Interior LED Light Top LED
Number of Drawer 2 EA
General Feature Refrigerant R-600a
Compressor AI Inverter Compressor
Exterior Feature Display Type Internal (Simple UX) Internal (Simple UX) Internal (ADA Compliant) Internal (ADA Compliant)
Door Handle Recess Recess Recess Recess
Colour BLACK GLASS BLACK DOI BLACK DOI MATT DOI METAL
Dispenser Type I&W Dispenser (Non-Plumbing, with Water Tank) I&W Dispenser (Non-Plumbing, with Water Tank)
Door Open Type Auto Open Door
Energy Consumption 495 kWh/year 495 kWh/year 506 kWh/year 506 kWh/year
Energy Energy Grade 3 ticks

Smart

WiFi Embedded Yes Yes Yes Yes
Mobile Bixby Yes Yes Yes Yes
Set Bixby (Mic) Yes No No No
Speaker Yes No No No
Bluetooth Yes No No No
App Connectivity SmartThings App Support Yes

Bespoke AI Laundry Top Load Washer
Local Pricing and Availability
The Bespoke AI Laundry Top-load Washer is now available for purchase on the Samsung Online Store and major consumer electronics stores (Best Denki, Courts, Gain City, Harvey Norman).

Consumers who purchase the new Bespoke AI Top-load Washers from now till 7 May will receive up to $100 worth of Mooments Voucher[9].

The Recommended Retail Prices for the Samsung Bespoke AI Laundry Top-load Washer models are as follows:

Model Colour RRP
15kg Bespoke AI Laundry Top-load Washer – Hygiene Steam

WA80F15B6BSP

Black Caviar $1,499
13kg Bespoke AI Laundry Top-load Washer – Hygiene Steam

WA80F13B6BSP

Black Caviar $1,299
13kg Bespoke AI Laundry Top-load Washer – EcoBubble™

WA80F13S5CSP

Charcoal Gray $1,049
10kg Laundry Top-load Washer – EcoBubble™

WA10CG4546BVSP

Black Caviar $899
8kg Laundry Top-load Washer – EcoBubble™

WA80CG4546BVSP

Black Caviar $699

Product Specifications
Bespoke AI Laundry Top-Load Washer

Model Code WA80F15B6BSP WA80F13B6BSP WA80F13S5CSP WA10CG4546BVSP WA80CG4546BVSP
Washing Capacity Washing Capacity (kg) 15.0 kg 13.0 kg 13.0 kg 10.0 kg 8.0 kg
Design Body Colour Black Caviar Black Caviar Charcoal Grey Black Caviar Black Caviar
Door Tempered Glass + Chrome Deco Tempered Glass + Chrome Deco Tempered Glass
Panel Display LED
Performance Water Efficiency (Ticks) 4 Ticks
Feature AI Wash Yes No No
AI Energy Mode Yes No No
AI VRT+ Yes No No
EcoBubble™ Yes
BubbleStorm™ Yes
Dual Storm™ Yes
Air Turbo Yes
Child Lock Yes
Delay End Yes
Door Lock Yes Yes No No No
Drum Type 2nd Diamond
Intensive Wash Yes
Magic Filter Yes
Motor DIT
Pulsator Stainless Dual Storm Stainless Dual Storm PP Dual Storm PP Dual Storm PP Dual Storm
Super Speed Yes
Spin Speed 700rpm
Smart Control Yes No No
SmartThings Yes No No
Smart Check Yes No No
Soft Closing Door Yes
Water Level 10 Levels
Cycle AI Wash Yes No No
Hygiene Steam Yes Yes No No No
Baby Care Yes
Bedding Yes
Delicates Yes
Downloaded Cycle Jeans, Towels, Clean Wash, Soak, Spin Only, Stain Wash (Steam), Colours, Deep Softener, Baby Care, Super Clean Jeans, Towels, Clean Wash, Soak, Spin Only, Colours,
Deep Softener, Baby Care
Jeans, Towels, Clean Wash, Soak, Spin Only, Colours Jeans, Towels, Clean Wash, Soak, Spin Only, Colours
Normal Yes
Option List Delay End, Ecobubble, Super Speed, Intensive Wash (Long Key), AirTurbo (15min/30min), Smart Control, Power Tub Clean (Long Key), Child Lock (Double Key), Sound Off (Double Key), Smart Check (Double Key) Ecobubble, Super Speed, Power Tub Clean, Intensive Wash, Delay End Ecobubble, Super Speed, Power Tub Clean, Intensive Wash, Delay End
Quick Wash Yes
Rinse + Spin Yes
Super Clean No No Yes Yes Yes
Tub Clean No No Yes No No
Water Saving No No Yes No No
Physical
Specification
Net Dimension (WxHxD) 610 x 1089 x 675 mm 610 x 1059 x 675 mm 540 x 1008 x 577 mm
Net Weight 43kg 41kg 40kg 32kg 30kg
Smart Wi-Fi Embedded Yes
App Connectivity SmartThings App Support Yes

*Note: Specifications subject to changes without prior notice

Bespoke AI Jet Ultra and Bespoke AI Jet Lite
Local Pricing and Availability
The Bespoke AI Jet Ultra is now generally available while the Bespoke AI Jet Lite will be available from 12 April 2025. Both models will be available on the Samsung Online Store and major consumer electronics stores (Best Denki, Courts, Gain City, Harvey Norman).

Consumers who purchase the Bespoke AI Jet Ultra and Bespoke AI Jet Lite from now to 7 May will receive $100 worth of Mooments Voucher[10].

The Recommended Retail Prices for the Samsung Bespoke AI Jet Ultra and the Bespoke AI Jet Lite are as follows:

Model Colour Availability RRP
Bespoke AI Jet Ultra

VS90F40DAK/SP

Satin Black Available Now $1,699
Bespoke AI Jet Lite

VS80F28DAS/SP

Santorini Beige From 12 April 2025 $1,499

Product Specifications
Bespoke AI Jet

Bespoke AI Jet Ultra Bespoke AI Jet Lite
Model Code VS90F40DAK/SP VS80F28DAS/SP
General
Information
Body Colour Black Chrometal
Point Colour Satin Black Santorini Beige
Digital Inverter Motor Yes
Max Suction Power (Set with battery) 400W with VCA-SBTC97 battery
Running Time Up to 160min (Stated run time applies to the minimum power
with a non-motorised tool attached using 2 batteries)
Up to 120min (Stated run time applies to the minimum power level with a non-motorised tool attached using 2 batteries)
Number of Cleaning Modes 5
Dust Collection Time Multi Cyclone
Dustbin Capacity 0.5L
Noise Level 87 dBA
Display Type LCD
Smart Feature Wi-Fi Embedded Yes
AI Cleaning Mode Yes
SmartThings App Control Yes
Voice Control Bixby support – English (US, UK, IN)
/ Chinese (Mandarin) / Korean
Self-Diagnosis Yes
Customised Setting Yes
Maintenance Guide Yes
Battery Charging Time 300 min
(Large capacity battery)

210min
(Lightweight battery)

210min
Detachable Battery Yes
Quantity 2 ea
Brush Main Active Dual Brush Jet Dual Brush+
Main (others) Slim LED Brush+
Additional Brush (others) Spray Spinning Sweeper
Accessory Accessory 1 Pet Tool+
Accessory 2 Combination Tool
Accessory 3 Extentsion Crevice Tool
Accessory 4 Flexible Tool
Accessory 5 Accessory Cradle
Accessory 6 Battery Charging Kit
Accessory 7 Multi-use Wet Pad (2ea)
Accessory 8 Single-use Wet Pad (10ea)
Clean
Station
Detail
Dust Bag 3 ea
Dust Bag Capacity 2.0L
Dust Bag Full Indicator Yes
Wi-Fi On/Off Indicator Yes
Dimension (WxHxD) 300x850x300mm
Weight 6.4kg
Filter Exhaust Fine Dust Filter with HEPA Filtration
Pre-Motor Yes
Convenience Feature Washable Dustbin Yes
Telescopic Pipe Yes
Physical Specification Dimension (Net, WxHxD) 250x1036x243mm 250x1000x202mm
Dimension (Set + Station, WxHxD) 300x1192x350mm 300x1150x300mm
Weight (Net) 2.8kg (with VCA-SBTD95 battery and Slim LED Brush+) 2.49kg (with Slim LED Brush+)
Weight (Set + Station) 9.2kg 8.9kg

Bespoke AirDresser
Local Pricing and Availability
The Bespoke AirDresser is now generally available at the Samsung Online Store and major consumer electronics stores (Best Denki, Courts, Gain City, Harvey Norman).

Consumers who purchase the Bespoke AirDresser from now till 7 May will receive $150 worth of Mooments Voucher[11].

The Recommended Retail Price for the Bespoke AirDresser is as follows:

Model Colour RRP
Bespoke AirDresser

DF18CB8700CRSP

Crystal Mirror $2,699

Product Specifications
Bespoke AirDresser

Model Code DF18CB8700CRSP
Drying Capacity Capacity Jacket (3~5) + Pants 3
Design Door Crystal Mirror (Mirror)
Panel Display Touch + 2.25″ LCD
Performance Motor Spec (HP) Digital Inverter Motor
Compressor Digital Inverter Compressor
Feature AI Pattern Yes
AI Energy Mode Yes
Auto Cycle Link Yes
Dual JetSteam Yes
Heatpump Drying Yes
AI Dry Yes
Humidity Sensor Yes
Keep Fresh Yes
Lint Filter Yes
Wrinkle Care Yes
Smart Control Yes
Child Lock Yes
Delay End Yes
AirHanger 3
Paint Clipper 3
Weight Kit Sold Separately
Fresh Finish Yes
SmartThings Yes
Cycle Normal Yes
Outdoor Yes
Quick Yes
Sanitise Yes
School Uniform Yes
Suit Yes
Toy Yes
Wool Yes
Option List Keep Fresh, Delay End, Child Lock, My Cycles
Bedding Yes
Blouse Yes
Delicates No
Denim Yes
Down Jacket Yes
Baby Clothing Yes
Bulk Care Yes
Cashmere Yes
Winter Coat Yes
Accessory Yes
Mask Sanitise Yes
Self Clean Yes
Silk Yes
Dry AI Dry, Quick, Swimsuit, Outdoor, Fitness Wear, Blouse, Denim, Down Jacket, Time Dry(1/2/3hr), Room Care(2/4hr)
Physical Specification Net Dimension (WxHxD) 445x1960x595mm
Net Weight 83kg
Gross Dimension (WxHxD) 529x2050x759mm


[1] AI Home display refers to the 7″ or 9″ LCD screen on the product. Does not mean all services available on the AI Home are AI or generate information or outcome using AI. Certain functions accessible through the AI Home utilise AI-based algorithms, which can be updated periodically to improve accuracy. AI-based algorithms may generate incomplete or incorrect information.

[2] Wi-Fi connection and Samsung account are required. All products must be connected to SmartThings. Only 3rd party devices that are compatible with SmartThings can be registered.

[3] Fabric sensing uses an AI algorithm to sense three fabric types (Normal, Delicates, Towels) for loads up to 3kg. Mixed fabrics may reduce detection accuracy. Actual results may vary depending on individual use. To prevent wear, wash like fabrics together.

[4] Bixby availability may vary depending on the country. Bixby only recognises certain accents and dialects of English (U.K.), English (U.S.), English (India), French (France), German (Germany), Italian (Italy), Korean (South Korea), Mandarin Chinese (China), Spanish (Latin America), Spanish (Spain) and Portuguese (Brazil). Voice ID will be available starting May of 2025 through Smart Forward update. Launch date may differ according to region and country. Bixby activated Samsung Account is required. Up to six accounts can be registered per device. To increase the accuracy of identifying each voice, it is recommended for you to register your voice in quiet surroundings. Voice ID is done based on the tone of voice used during registration process. Any change or modification to your voice may lead to misidentification.

[5] Trust Chain Dashboard is applied to appliances with 7-inch or 9-inch AI Home launching in 2025.

[6] Knox Vault is applied to appliances with 7-inch or 9-inch AI Home launching in 2025

[7] PQC is applied to appliances with 7-inch or 9-inch AI Home launching in 2025.

[8] While stocks last.

[9] While stocks last.

[10] While stocks last.

[11] While stocks last.

Hashtag: #Technology

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

Samsung Electronics Singapore

Samsung inspires the world and shapes the future with transformative ideas and technologies. The company is redefining the worlds of TVs, smartphones, wearable devices, tablets, home appliances, network systems, and memory, system LSI, foundry and LED solutions, and delivering a seamless connected experience through its SmartThings ecosystem and open collaboration with partners. For the latest news, please visit the Samsung Newsroom at .

Seeing the Unseen: How Raytron Thermal Imaging Powers Global Wildlife Protection

YANTAI, China, April 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Rising environmental pressures, from disappearing habitats to climate change and illegal hunting, are driving the need for high-tech wildlife protection solutions. As forests shrink, animals increasingly enter human settlements, leading to dangerous human-wildlife conflicts. Conservationists now rely on thermal cameras for wildlife to detect animals at night, stop poachers, and promote safer coexistence.

24/7 Wildlife Guardians: How Thermal Imaging Enables Uninterrupted Nighttime Monitoring

Unlike traditional methods, thermal cameras detect heat signatures, enabling nighttime non-invasive, 24/7 animal detection regardless of light or weather. In Kenya’s Maasai Mara Reserve, thermal imaging to stop poachers has helped World Wildlife Fund (WWF) teams track animal movements and intercept illegal hunting, leading to multiple arrests and a dramatic drop in rhino poaching since 2020. Similarly, Florida’s endangered panther population rebounded from fewer than 100 to 200 according to National Geographic, after infrared wildlife camera night vision provided critical data on their nocturnal movement.

On the Frontlines Against Poaching: Thermal Technology’s Role in Protecting Endangered Species

As a leading innovator in thermal camera, Raytron plays a pivotal role in wildlife monitoring and environmental protection with advanced wildlife monitoring thermal imaging systems. In 2021, when a herd of 15 Asian elephants in China’s Yunnan Province migrated toward urban areas, Raytron deployed over 40 infrared cameras for poaching prevention to track those 15 migrating elephants, ensuring their safety over 300 miles and helping to safeguard both animal and public safety.

Meanwhile, in Gansu Province, infrared cameras donated by Raytron enabled swift detection of wild boars intruding on farmlands, allowing authorities to proactively manage these incursions. “Thermal imaging lets us act before conflict occurs”, said a Raytron engineer.

Raytron’s Commitment to Eco-Friendly Surveillance for Wildlife

Raytron has upheld its corporate responsibility by championing the application of infrared thermal imagers in wildlife conservation for years, which bolsters biodiversity and ecological balance. Committed to its mission of creating incremental value for customers with continuous technological advancements, Raytron will continue advancing multi-dimensional sensing technology and innovating smart wildlife protection solutions with AI to foster safer human-wildlife coexistence.

For Further Information:

Contact us to explore customized thermal imaging solutions for wildlife protection:
Raytron Marketing Department
E-mail: sales@raytrontek.com
Website: https://en.raytrontek.com/

Noah Holdings Recognized for ESG Excellence in S&P Global Sustainability Yearbook (China Edition) 2025

SHANGHAI, April 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Noah Holdings Limited (“Noah” or the “Company”) (NYSE: NOAH and HKEX: 6686), a leading and pioneer wealth management service provider offering comprehensive one-stop advisory services on global investment and asset allocation primarily for Mandarin-speaking high-net-worth investors, has secured a place in the S&P Global Sustainability Yearbook (China Edition) 2025. This recognition highlights the Company’s excellence in Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) practices and commitment to responsible investing across its entire platform, including its international brand ARK Wealth Management, which serves as a core component of the Company’s global strategy.

The Yearbook highlights companies that demonstrate strong ESG risk management, industry leadership, and measurable progress on key sustainability indicators such as climate action, corporate governance, and social responsibility. Noah was selected from 1,662 Chinese enterprises evaluated through S&P Global’s Corporate Sustainability Assessment (CSA) and emerged as one of only seven companies in the Financial and Capital Market Services Sector to receive this distinction. The inclusion reflects Noah’s position in the top 15% of its industry, with a sustainability score within 30% of the sector’s global leader, based on S&P Global’s evaluation criteria.

“We are proud to be included in this year’s S&P Global Sustainability Yearbook (China Edition), a recognition that validates our strategic commitment to ESG principles,” said Zander Yin, CEO of Noah Holdings. “This acknowledgement reflects our success in integrating sustainability throughout our operations and client solutions while maintaining strong governance and transparency.”

This distinction builds on Noah’s recent ESG accolades, including ‘A’ ratings by both Refinitiv and Wind ESG, placing Noah in the top 1.8% and top 6% of its industry respectively across the globe.

Noah has been an ESG advocate since its founding. Noah and its subsidiary Gopher Asset Management are both signatories to the UN Principles for Responsible Investment (UN PRI), and for ten consecutive years, the Company has published its annual Sustainability Report, which details how it is embedding ESG practices across long-term corporate strategy and business operations.

Noah, as a pioneer in responsible investment in China, has also launched ESG-themed private equity products, established a responsible investment task force, and released its own ESG Investment Due Diligence Action Report to enhance transparency and accountability.

Beyond financial services, Noah champions biodiversity and education through initiatives led by the Noah Foundation, including an “Equal Education Opportunity Fund” launched in 2024, long-standing support for Society of Entrepreneurs & Ecology (SEE) Foundation’s ecological restoration efforts, and active engagement in national biodiversity protection networks.

Noah also strongly advocates for gender equality and inclusive leadership, with 62% of employees, 44% of executives, and 44% of board members being women. The Company was recently recognized by Forbes China as one of the 2023 Most Innovative Employers.

As global attention turns to COP29, Noah continues advancing its ESG governance framework in alignment with China’s “dual carbon” goals and The Paris Agreement, to build a more resilient, sustainable, and inclusive global economy.

ABOUT NOAH HOLDINGS LIMITED

Noah Holdings Limited (NYSE: NOAH and HKEX: 6686) is a leading and pioneer wealth management service provider offering comprehensive one-stop advisory services on global investment and asset allocation primarily for mandarin-speaking high-net-worth investors. Noah’s American depositary shares, or ADSs, are listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “NOAH”, and its shares are listed on the main board of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange under the stock code “6686.” One ADS represents five ordinary shares, par value $0.00005 per share.

In 2024, Noah distributed RMB63.9 billion (US$8.8 billion) of investment products. Through Gopher Asset Management and Olive Asset Management, Noah had assets under management of RMB151.5 billion (US$20.8 billion) as of December 31, 2024.

Noah’s domestic and overseas wealth management business primarily distributes private equity, public securities and insurance products denominated in RMB and other currencies. Noah’s network covers major cities in mainland China, as well as Hong Kong (China), New York, Silicon Valley, Singapore, and Los Angeles. The Company’s wealth management business had 462,049 registered clients as of December 31, 2024. Through its domestic and overseas asset management business operated by Gopher Asset Management and Olive Asset Management, Noah manages private equity, public securities, real estate, multi-strategy and other investments denominated in RMB and other currencies. The Company also provides other businesses.