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Human Frontier Science Program: Fellowships Awarded to 60 Pioneering Postdoctoral Scientists from 25 Nations

STRASBOURG, France, March 31, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — To foster the next generation of life science research, 60 of the world’s top emerging scientists from 25 nations have won 2025 Human Frontier Science Program (HFSP) Fellowships.

Human Frontier Science Program: Fellowships Awarded to 60 Pioneering Postdoctoral Scientists from 25 Nations
Human Frontier Science Program: Fellowships Awarded to 60 Pioneering Postdoctoral Scientists from 25 Nations

“We have awarded fellowships to some of the most creative early career scientists worldwide in order to open new frontiers in life science research,” said Guntram Bauer, HFSPO Chief Scientific Officer.

Postdoctoral scientists from these nations to receive 2025 HFSP Fellowships:

Australia

Mainland China

Hong Kong

Korea

Peru

Bangladesh

Egypt

India

Lithuania

Romania

Belgium

France

Israel

New Zealand

Spain

Brazil

Germany

Italy

Norway

United Kingdom

Canada

Ghana

Japan

Netherlands

United States of America

Online Booklet Lists Winners:

The 2025 HFSP Fellowship awards reflect the ingenuity and drive for discovery of the next generation of researchers. HFSP reviewed proposals from 541 applicants. To read the abstracts of the 60 awardees, click: 2025 HFSP Fellowships Awardees.

To find individual scientists, click: Index by Country of the Fellows.

Research highlights include:

  • Research on memory engrams, those groups of neurons that fire together and can distribute a memory across many neurons, will be the focus of a new study. Scientists will use brain machine interfaces to determine whether memories are preserved if some neurons are re-engineered.
  • An investigation on the symbiotic relationship of corals and dinoflagellates will show that critical nutrients are conveyed to the corals through protein glycosylation, for which microorganisms are provided safe harbor. This exchange is critical for coral reef health and may yield new insights for restoring and protecting coral reefs.
  • How bacteria mutate and acquire genetic material from hosts to resist antibiotics has been well studied; this new study evaluates how individual cells resist antibiotics. Scientists hope to better understand variability in cellular responses, which could also unlock insight regarding cancer and other diseases as well.

About HFSP Awards:

HFSP Long-Term Fellowships support scientists with a Ph.D. in a biological discipline to conduct a frontier project in the life sciences. Cross-Disciplinary Fellowships support scientists with a Ph.D. in a non-biological discipline (math, physics, computer science, etc.) to work on a frontier project in biology.

Journalists can view the full press release here.

CONTACT:
D. Rachael Bishop, HFSPO Science Writer and Editor 
rbishop@hfsp.org
+33 (0)7 81 87 62 21

AIM Vaccine reduces losses by nearly 90% in 2024, with the iterative major product series opening up space for explosive growth in performance

HONG KONG, March 31, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — AIM Vaccine Co., Ltd. (06660.HK), a leading PRC vaccine company, published its 2024 Annual Results announcement on March 30, 2025, the company recorded revenues of RMB 1,285 million in 2024, an increase of 8.2% compared to the previous year, with significant sales growth in its hepatitis B vaccine, hepatitis A vaccine, and quadrivalent meningococcal vaccine. The annual loss narrowed to RMB 278 million, demonstrating a substantial reduction of 85.7% in net losses, signaling a strong indication of an inflection point in performance.

Loss Narrowing by Nearly 90% with Core Products Maintaining Steady Growth

In the context of intensified competition in the domestic vaccine industry, AIM Vaccine’s Hansen yeast recombinant hepatitis B vaccine saw an increase in sales revenue, standing firm against market downturns. This achievement holds significant meaning for AIM Vaccine.

Since 2021, the company’s performance has faced continuous pressure due to intensified competition for core products and asset impairments. Therefore, some analysts believe that the substantial narrowing of losses in 2024 not only validates the effectiveness of AIM’s strategic adjustments but also provides a valuable window of time and funding for the commercialization of its subsequent R&D pipeline.

Optimistic assessments from professional institutions corroborate AIM’s actual development trends. According to a research report from Fosun International Securities, AIM’s core products, the hepatitis B vaccine and rabies vaccine, are expected to enter a stable growth phase in 2025. Meanwhile, the launch of new-generation innovative products, including the serum-free rabies vaccine, the 13-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine, the quadrivalent meningococcal conjugate vaccine, as well as mRNA-based respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and shingles vaccines, is anticipated in the next 2-3 years, driving the company toward leapfrog development and value reassessment.

Three Iterative Major Vaccine Products Set to Launch, Driving Market Expansion

The narrowing of losses is just the starting point; AIM Vaccine’s true growth engine lies in the concentrated explosion of its iterative vaccine product matrix. Currently, three major innovative vaccine products are in the countdown for market launch.

The world’s first iterative serum-free rabies vaccine has completed Phase III clinical trials and has obtained the corresponding drug production license. The application for market registration has been formally submitted to the National Medical Products Administration. As it contains no animal serum, the vaccine significantly improves safety and reduces the likelihood of adverse reactions. According to the “Standard Operating Procedures for Rabies Exposure Prevention and Treatment (2023 Edition)” issued by the National Health Commission, rabies vaccination clinics are required to provide at least two different types of rabies vaccines. With its technological advantages in iteration, this product is expected to become the vaccine of choice for vaccination institutions.

The 13-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13) has obtained the corresponding drug production license and has submitted a registration application to the National Medical Products Administration. Authoritative estimates suggest that the former “king of vaccines,” PCV13, has a global shortfall of up to 180 million doses, and due to the simultaneous commercialization layout in both domestic and international markets, this product will become an important growth point for AIM Vaccine.

The 23-valent pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPSV23) has completed the on-site work for Phase III clinical trials and plans to submit a pre-application for market registration to the National Medical Products Administration.

Aiming at the adult vaccine market, particularly in light of the “silver economy” wave, the iterative pneumococcal series products are expected to capture a market scale worth tens of billions.

Technological Innovation and International Strategy: A Dual Engine Driving Rapid Growth

Currently, AIM Vaccine’s technological reserves and market layout have demonstrated a bold development strategy to the market.

Fosun International Securities’ research report evaluates AIM’s R&D and production capabilities as follows: AIM Vaccine relies on five cutting-edge technology platforms (bacterial, viral, genetic engineering, conjugate, and mRNA vaccines) and GMP-certified high-standard large-capacity production facilities to ensure the stability of product quality and reliability of supply. Notably, the mRNA technology platform, successfully validated during the COVID-19 pandemic, has further solidified AIM’s leadership in the field of next-generation vaccine innovation, providing a solid foundation for future technological breakthroughs.

Using the globally focused mRNA technology platform as an example, according to the 2024 earnings announcement, AIM’s mRNA RSV vaccine and mRNA shingles vaccine have both been approved to conduct clinical trials in the United States, becoming powerful tools for accelerating the company’s internationalization.

Having already ventured into overseas markets, AIM Vaccine has started the registration process for its launched products in regions such as Southeast Asia, Africa, South America, and the Middle East. In 2024, the company successfully exported its rabies vaccine and quadrivalent meningococcal vaccine to countries like Egypt and Pakistan. With the launch of its iterative vaccines, AIM is expected to expand its international market through technological premiums, achieving a “Technology + Scale” dual.

 

FutureDial Partners with SB Frameworks to Drive Mobile Refurbishment Automation in Japan

SUNNYVALE, Calif., March 31, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — FutureDial, the global leader in connected device data sanitization, functional testing, and refurbishment automation, is proud to announce a strategic, multi-year partnership with SB Frameworks (SBF) Japan, a group company of SoftBank Corp., one of Japan’s most prestigious and innovative wireless operators. This collaboration will transform the second-hand mobile device market in Japan, setting a new benchmark for quality, efficiency, and automation in mobile refurbishment.

As Japan continues to lead the way in technological advancements, SBF is pioneering the future of mobile refurbishment by leveraging FutureDial’s industry-leading automation solutions. This partnership serves as a foundational step in SB Frameworks’ long-term vision to automate and scale mobile device renewal operations, ensuring premium quality, data security, and efficiency in the second-hand mobile market.

FutureDial: The Preferred Automation Partner for SB Frameworks

SB Frameworks, as an integral part of SoftBank’s extensive mobile ecosystem, has set forth an ambitious roadmap to modernize and scale mobile refurbishment operations. By partnering with FutureDial, the global leader in automation solutions for mobile device logistics, SBF is taking decisive steps toward an automated future, laying the foundation for long-term growth.

Why FutureDial?

 SB Frameworks selected FutureDial based on:

  • Industry Leadership & Proven Expertise – Over two decades of experience delivering best-in-class automation solutions for the mobile device supply chain.
  • Modular & Scalable Automation – A stepwise approach allowing SBF to progressively integrate automation for seamless adoption and long-term success.
  • Comprehensive Mobile Refurbishment Solutions – Covering everything from data erasure and diagnostics to functional testing and cosmetic inspection.
  • Commitment to Knowledge Transfer & Long-Term Success – FutureDial is dedicating significant resources to ensure SBF’s internal teams gain expertise, experience, and the capability to scale operations efficiently.

A Broad, Multi-Phase Partnership for the Future

This partnership is designed as a multi-year initiative, with multiple phases aimed at progressively automating and refining SBF’s mobile refurbishment processes. The initial focus will be on optimizing core operations, such as:

  • Automated Data Erasure & Security Compliance – Ensuring all personal data is fully removed from devices, adhering to Japan’s stringent privacy standards.
  • Advanced Functional Testing & Cosmetic Inspection – Implementing AI-driven diagnostics to enhance the grading and performance assessment of pre-owned devices.
  • Automated Receiving & Processing Solutions – Exploring next-generation automation for inbound device logistics, inventory management, and repair workflows.

“This partnership is a game-changer,” said Hiroyuki Arai, President and Representative Director at FutureDial. “SB Frameworks has a clear vision for automation, and FutureDial is honored to support them in executing a multi-year, multi-phase transformation that will set new industry standards in Japan.”

Hiro Watanuki, SB Frameworks’ President & CEO, echoed this sentiment: “Partnering with FutureDial aligns perfectly with our long-term strategy to enhance efficiency and drive automation across SB Frameworks’ mobile refurbishment ecosystem. We see this as a critical step in elevating our operations and reinforcing SBF’s leadership in the mobile sector.”

Looking Ahead: A Partnership Built for the Future

The FutureDial-SBF collaboration is just the beginning. As the partnership progresses, FutureDial will continue to introduce new automation solutions, integrate advanced AI-driven technologies, and optimize mobile device processing at scale.

More details on this initiative will be revealed in the coming months as FutureDial and SBF continue to lead the charge in automation and innovation.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Brad Treese

FutureDial PR Team

btreese@futuredial.com 

+1.415.623.8000

About FutureDial

FutureDial is the leading provider of automation solutions for mobile device processing, diagnostics, and refurbishment, helping businesses streamline operations, reduce costs, and enhance efficiency across the reverse logistics and circular economy. FutureDial’s AI-powered, modular automation solutions are used by mobile carriers, device resellers, and logistics companies worldwide.

About SB Frameworks

SB Frameworks (SBF) is a group company of SoftBank Corp., focused on mobile device refurbishment, logistics, and technology-driven solutions. As an innovator in Japan’s mobile industry, SBF is committed to advancing automation, sustainability, and operational excellence in the mobile device lifecycle.

ghSMART Deepens its Presence in Australia to Further Serve Top Business Leaders

SYDNEY, March 31, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — ghSMART has been serving Australian clients for 25 years, partnering with global businesses, leading private equity firms, and boards committed to leadership excellence. As part of its continued global expansion, the firm is deepening its presence in Australia. After establishing a dedicated office in 2023, and in response to growing demand, ghSMART expects to triple the size of its Australia team by the end of 2025.

For 30 years, ghSMART has partnered with CEOs, boards, and investors to drive superior leadership decisions. Over 90% of the firm’s advisory work is at the C-suite, CEO, board, or investor level, helping organizations assess, develop, and select the best leadership to create lasting impact.

“Our mission is to use our expertise in human behavior to help CEOs and investors build valuable companies,” said Dr. Geoff Smart, Founder & Chairman of ghSMART. “Australia has long been an important market for us, and this expansion allows us to deepen our relationships with top decision-makers who seek to build and lead exceptional teams.”

The firm’s commitment to the Australian market aligns with its broader global strategy of supporting leaders in making better people decisions—an increasingly critical factor in long-term business success.

“With today’s complex business landscape, leadership matters more than ever,” said Jeff McLean, CEO of ghSMART. “By investing further in building our team in Australia, we are strengthening our ability to deliver world-class advisory services to leaders who are shaping the future of their industries.”

ghSMART’s Australian team is already working closely with many of the country’s most influential organizations, providing data-driven insights to help them make high-stakes leadership decisions with confidence.

“We are thrilled to deepen our footprint in Australia and continue serving top business leaders with the same rigor and impact that ghSMART is known for globally,” said Louis Chambers, Partner and Head of Australia at ghSMART. “Our firm’s 30-year track record, combined with our strong local presence, ensures that our clients receive the highest caliber of leadership advisory support.”

As ghSMART continues its global expansion, the firm remains committed to helping leaders and organizations maximize their potential—because when great leaders make great decisions, they create extraordinary results.

About ghSMART

ghSMART is the trusted advisor to CEOs, boards, and investors on leadership strategies that drive performance and transformation. Combining rigorous assessments with analytics, ghSMART supports its clients in building exceptional teams and achieving their most ambitious goals. Founded on the belief that leadership is the most powerful force for good, ghSMART remains a pioneer in leadership advisory, with a legacy of bestselling books and industry accolades.

For more information about ghSMART and its services, visit www.ghSMART.com. For media inquiries, email Jennifer Watkins at jwatkins@ghsmart.com.

Logo – https://laotiantimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/ghsmart_logo.jpg

Li-S Energy collaborates with Kea Aerospace to power high altitude UAV flights

SYDNEY, March 31, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Li-S Energy (ASX:LIS) (‘Li-S’ or ‘the Company’) has signed a collaboration agreement with Kea Aerospace (Kea) to integrate Li-S’ advanced lithium sulfur battery technology into Kea’s high altitude UAVs targeting multi-month flight times.

Kea's solar-powered ‘ATMOS’ aircraft
Kea’s solar-powered ‘ATMOS’ aircraft

The partnership was signed and unveiled at the Avalon International Airshow outside of Melbourne, where Li-S is an exhibitor. The collaboration will see Li-S’ battery technology integrated into Kea’s high-altitude UAVs, significantly enhancing flight endurance and operational efficiency. The Kea Aerospace media release is attached to this announcement.

Li-S’ collaboration with Kea is consistent with the Company’s strategy to target the rapidly growing markets of drones, defence and electric aviation. Kea has partnered with Li-S because its cutting-edge lithium sulfur battery technology offers significant weight savings and energy density, which are both critical to maximise UAV flight times and payload.

Kea High Altitude UAVs

Founded in New Zealand in 2018, Kea is currently flight-testing its aircraft in the stratosphere, between 55,000 and 65,000 feet. Its solar-powered Kea ‘ATMOS’ aircraft operates as a High Altitude Platform Station (HAPS) and High Altitude Long Endurance (HALE) aircraft. The drone gathers high-resolution aerial imagery and persistent video data for applications such as maritime awareness, environmental monitoring and disaster response, plus a broad range of other commercial use cases such as supporting telecommunications services. The potential for stratospheric HAPS aircraft capable of multi-month flight durations is substantial with Kea at the cutting edge of this global industry. The competitive benefits are compelling as HAPS offer far lower costs than satellites, greater persistence than conventional aircraft, and far greater control compared to un-steerable balloons.

Li-S collaboration

Li-S’ collaboration with Kea will focus on incorporating the Company’s ultra-light lithium sulfur battery cells and Li-S BMS technology into a Kea battery pack design, with ground testing expected in 2025 followed by flight testing.

The program objective will be to demonstrate the technology and integration in the 12.5 metre wingspan ATMOS Mk1 aircraft, followed by integration into the ATMOS Mk2 design, which will be capable of continuous flight for several months.

In ATMOS Mk2 the aircraft motors will cycle between power from the battery at night and solar cells during the day (with excess solar power also recharging the battery). Weight is absolutely critical for HAPS platforms. Having a battery with higher energy density prolongs flight time, improves payload capacity and can increase the geographic extent of operations, both in latitude and for operation in seasons with less daylight hours.

Dr Lee Finniear, CEO, commented:

“Our initial focus on the drone, defence and electric aviation markets is producing incredible opportunities for Li-S Energy. The stratospheric UAV market is a key sector of interest with enormous commercial potential. Partnering with Kea Aerospace positions us to engage at the cutting edge of this sector. Given the paramount importance of weight and reliability to Kea’s ATMOS line of stratospheric UAVs, their decision to collaborate with Li-S highlights how far advanced our battery technology is ahead of many of our competitors. We look forward to the testing program being undertaken in 2025, and to becoming a key technology partner of Kea’s as it delivers high performance, multi-month HAPS aircraft platforms to the global market.”

Dr Mark Rocket, Kea’s CEO noted:

“This announcement of our collaboration with Li-S at the Avalon International Airshow, one of the most prestigious airshows globally, speaks to how significantly we view our new partnership. Li-S’ next generation lithium-sulfur battery offers more than twice the energy density of conventional lithium-ion batteries, while being greener due to the absence of key materials such as cobalt. This year promises to be a pivotal year for Kea as we develop our ATMOS Mk2 aircraft and the successful integration of Li-S battery technology into our ATMOS UAVs would give us an incredible competitive advantage in an industry where the commercial applications are vast.”

About Li-S Energy

Li-S Energy is an Australian company at the forefront of next-generation battery innovation, developing lithium-sulfur and lithium-metal cells that offer more than twice the energy density of conventional lithium-ion. With a strong research foundation and a commitment to sustainability, the company leverages cutting-edge IP and nanomaterials like BNNTs and Li-Nanomesh™ to enhance performance, safety, and longevity. Li-S Energy aims to revolutionise energy storage for aviation, drones, defence, and beyond – delivering lighter, more efficient energy solutions for advanced applications where weight is critical.

About Kea Aerospace

The company is based in Christchurch, New Zealand. Our vision is to be the world-leader in stratospheric flight operation and data collection and we’re on a mission to create insights from the stratosphere that will improve life on our planet.

CNOOC Limited Announces A Hundred-Million-Ton Oilfield Discovery of Huizhou 19-6

HONG KONG, March 31, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — CNOOC Limited (the “Company”, SEHK: 00883 (HKD Counter) and 80883 (RMB Counter), SSE: 600938) announces today that the Company has made a major oilfield discovery of Huizhou 19-6 in the deep and ultra-deep plays of the South China Sea, which adds over a hundred million tons of oil equivalent in-place.

Huizhou 19-6 oilfield is located in the eastern South China Sea, with an average water depth of approximately 100 meters. The main oil-bearing plays are Paleogene Enping Formation and Wenchang Formation, and the oil property is light crude. The discovery well HZ19-6-3 was drilled and completed at a depth of 5,415 meters, which encountered a total of 127 meters oil and gas pay zones. The well was tested to produce 413 barrels of crude oil and 2.41 million cubic feet of natural gas per day. Through continued exploration, the proved in-place volume of Huizhou 19-6 oilfield has exceeded a hundred million tons of oil equivalent.

Mr. Xu Changgui, the Chief Geologist of the Company, said, “In recent years, CNOOC Limited has strengthened the research on exploration theory and technology of the deep and ultra-deep plays in the South China Sea, and breakthroughs have been achieved. This discovery has confirmed the largest integrated clastic oilfield in the northern South China Sea in terms of original oil in place, breaking the traditional theoretical understanding, and demonstrating the enormous exploration potential of deep and ultra-deep plays in high-temperature and highly active basins offshore China.”

Mr. Zhou Xinhuai, CEO of the Company, said, “CNOOC Limited has made numerous breakthroughs in oil and gas exploration in the eastern South China Sea. Oilfields with hundred-million-ton oil in-place have been discovered in this area for two consecutive years, making it a new driver of the offshore oil and gas production growth. The Company will continue to strengthen its efforts in oil and gas exploration and development, to consolidate the resource base for increasing reserves and production, so as to bolster the high-quality development of the Company.”

— End —

Notes to Editors:

More information about the Company is available at http://www.cnoocltd.com.  

*** *** *** ***

This press release includes forward looking information, including statements regarding the likely future developments in the business of the Company and its subsidiaries, such as expected future events, business prospects or financial results. The words “expect”, “anticipate”, “continue”, “estimate”, “objective”, “ongoing”, “may”, “will”, “project”, “should”, “believe”, “plans”, “intends” and similar expressions are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. These statements are based on assumptions and analyses made by the Company as of this date in light of its experience and its perception of historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments, as well as other factors that the Company currently believes are appropriate under the circumstances. However, whether actual results and developments will meet the current expectations and predictions of the Company is uncertain. Actual results, performance and financial condition may differ materially from the Company’s expectations, including but not limited to those associated with macro-political and economic factors, fluctuations in crude oil and natural gas prices, the highly competitive nature of the oil and natural gas industry, climate change and environmental policies, the Company’s price forecast, mergers, acquisitions and divestments activities, HSSE and insurance policies and changes in anti-corruption, anti-fraud, anti-money laundering and corporate governance laws and regulations.

Consequently, all of the forward-looking statements made in this press release are qualified by these cautionary statements. The Company cannot assure that the results or developments anticipated will be realised or, even if substantially realised, that they will have the expected effect on the Company, its business or operations.

*** *** *** ***

For further enquiries, please contact:

Ms. Cui Liu
Media & Public Relations
CNOOC Limited
Tel: +86-10-8452-6641
Fax: +86-10-8452-1441
E-mail: mr@cnooc.com.cn 

Mr. Bunny Lee
Porda Havas International Finance Communications Group
Tel: +852 3150 6707
Fax: +852 3150 6728
E-mail: cnooc.hk@pordahavas.com  

Patent Index 2024: Japan ranks 3rd in European patent applications

  • European Patent Office received nearly 200 000 patent applications last year, with Japanese companies and inventors filing 10.6% of the total Electrical machinery/energy, transport and computers are leading technology fields for Japanese inventions 
  • Tokyo 1st in global city ranking  
  • Sony Group is among the EPO’s Top 10 applicant companies
  • Four Japanese companies among the EPO’s Top 25 applicants worldwide.

MUNICH and TOKYO, March 31, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — According to the latest Patent Index 2024, published today by the European Patent Office (EPO), Japan ranked third worldwide, following the United States and Germany. In 2024, Japanese companies and inventors filed a total of 21,062 patent applications, accounting for 10.6% of all filings at the EPO. While this represents a  2.4% decrease compared to 2023, Japan remains a powerhouse in technological advancements. Overall, the EPO received 199,264 patent applications worldwide last year, maintaining a steady level of patenting activity comparable to 2023 (199,452 applications), following three years of significant growth.

“Despite political and economic uncertainties, companies and inventors from around the world filed a high number of patents last year, underlining their technological prowess and their continued investment in R&D,” said EPO President António Campinos. “The EPO’s patent data is a clear roadmap for industry, policy, and investment priorities – tracking global innovation trends and offering insights into European patent application activity across industries and regions.” 

Japanese companies excel across key technological sectors

Japanese companies remain leaders in multiple high-growth industries. Japan’s leading field for European patent applications, electrical machinery, apparatus, energy,  saw a total of 2,077 Japanese patent applications, an 8.4% increase compared to 2023. In the area of battery technologies (an important sub-field of electrical machinery), Japanese companies filed 20% more patent applications at the EPO in 2024 compared to 2023. Japan’s second most important field, transport  – which covers automotive, aircraft/aerospace and rail technologies, also experienced growth from Japan, with 1,357 applications, marking a 3.7% rise. The number 3 field was computer technology, with Japanese companies filing 20% more patent applications in several AI-related sub-fields..

Sony Group among the Top 10 in patent applications in Europe

Four Japanese companies ranked among the top 25 patent filers at the EPO. Sony Group led the way with 1,307 applications, securing the 9th position worldwide, up from 10th in 2023. It was followed by Panasonic with 990 filings, Canon with 760 applications, while Hitachi contributed 653. Sony was no. 7 applicant overall at the EPO in computer technology. 13th in measurement and 14th in digital communication. Toyota also made significant strides, ranking no. 4 for vehicle technology (an important sub-field of transport) and second in electric propulsion (electric vehicle) technology, with a notable 12.7% increase in patent applications compared to the previous year.

Japan also showed continued strength in innovation in battery technologies; in the battery-related sub-field of electrical machinery, apparatus, and energy, Japan placed three companies in the global top 10: Panasonic (4th place, 279 patents), Prime Planet Energy (8th place, 85 patents), and Toyota Motor(10th place).

Tokyo 1st in city ranking: Japan’s innovation hub and leading patent contributor

The Tokyo metropolitan area plays a pivotal role in driving Japan’s global technological presence, and it is Japan’s leading prefecture with a total of 11,592 patent applications at the EPO.. Tokyo is also the second largest region worldwide for European patent filings at the EPO, behind the US state of California and ahead of Guangdong (CN), Île-de-France (FR) and Bavaria (DE). Tokyo also leads the worldwide city ranking at the EPO.  Its dominance in patent filings spans a diverse range of industries, including electronics, AI, clean energy, and mobility solutions. Following Tokyo, Osaka ranks second among prefectures, with 2,979 patent applications, while Aichi takes third place with 1,447 applications, marking an impressive 21.9% growth. 

Unitary Patent gains in popularity in its second year

The Unitary Patent system, launched in 2023, continues to gain momentum, offering innovators from around the world simpler and more accessible patent protection across 18 EU Member States with a single request to the EPO. Unitary protection was requested for 25.6% of all European patents granted by the EPO in 2024 totalling over 28,000 requests. Patentees from EPO member states had the highest uptake rate, with 36.5% of their European patents transformed into Unitary Patents, followed by those from Republic of Korea (18.9%), China (17.9%), the US (16.0%), and Japan (7.9%, up from 4.9% in 2023).

Further information

Follow us on social media: X | Facebook | LinkedIn | Instagram | YouTube

Official hashtag: #EPOPatentIndex

About the EPO
With 6 300 staff members, the European Patent Office (EPO) is one of the largest public service institutions in Europe. Headquartered in Munich with offices in Berlin, Brussels, The Hague and Vienna, the EPO was founded with the aim of strengthening co-operation on patents in Europe. Through the EPO’s centralised patent granting procedure, inventors are able to obtain high-quality patent protection in up to 45 countries, covering a market of some 700 million people. The EPO is also the world’s leading authority in patent information and patent searching.

Roborock Unveils Groundbreaking Saros Series in Australia

Featuring World-First Robotic Arm Technology and Smarter, Slimmer Cleaning for Aussie Homes

SYDNEY, March 31, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Roborock, a global leader in ultra-intelligent home robotics, today announced the arrival of its revolutionary Saros Series in Australia, featuring three cutting-edge models designed to set a new benchmark in home cleaning: the flagship Saros 10, the Saros 10R, and the robotic-arm-powered Saros Z70.

Saros 10 Picture
Saros 10 Picture

The Saros Series debuts as Roborock’s most advanced cleaning lineup yet –combining AI-driven navigation, ultra-powerful suction, and first-of-its-kind robotic arm technology – to offer Australians smarter, more precise, and more efficient cleaning solutions tailored for modern living.

“We’ve spent the past 11 years listening to our customers – what they love, what slows them down, and what they wish their smart home helper could do better,” said Richard Chang, Founder & CEO of Roborock. “The Saros Series is the result of that feedback. From robots getting stuck under couches to mops dragging dampness across carpets, we’ve addressed it all. Whether it’s the Saros Z70 picking up small items off the floor, the Saros 10 gliding under low-clearance furniture, or the Saros 10R navigating cluttered spaces with AI smarts, each model is built to remove friction from your daily routine.”

Roborock Saros Z70: The World’s First Robotic Home Assistant with OmniGrip
Headlining the series is the Saros Z70, the world’s first* mass-produced robotic vacuum featuring OmniGrip – a five-axis robotic arm designed to lift and remove everyday obstacles like socks, towels, and even sandals under 300g**. This means no more pre-cleaning prep. The robotic arm integrates seamlessly with StarSight™ Autonomous System 2.0, an AI-powered navigation platform that recognizes up to 108 different obstacles and intelligently charts its cleaning path with a 21x higher sampling frequency than traditional LDS systems.

With 22,000 Pa suction power, Dual Spinning Mops, and VertiBeam™ Lateral Obstacle Avoidance, the Saros Z70 offers an unrivaled deep clean with a robot vacuum body height at 7.98cm – while also packing pet-friendly features like live video monitoring and pet zone detection.

Roborock Saros 10: Slim, Smart, and Seriously Powerful
At just 7.98cm thin, the Saros 10 is engineered to glide under furniture with ease—delivering a powerful clean without compromise. It debuts RetractSense™  Navigation, featuring a retractable LDS module and 100-degree Wide-Angle Vision for unparalleled spatial awareness. Coupled with Reactive AI 3.0, VertiBeam™, and a 22,000 Pa HyperForce®  suction system, the Saros 10 sets a new standard for ultra-thin vacuums.

The Saros 10 also introduces VibraRise™ 4.0 mopping technology with an auto mop removal function. The mopping system is enhanced with dual sonic vibration zones and 8N of downward pressure, to tackle even the toughest stains. Its RockDock® Ultra 2.0 supports 80°C hot water mop washing, 60°C hot air mop drying, and 2.5-hour fast charging, delivering a hands-free and hygienic cleaning experience.

Roborock Saros 10R: AI-Powered Intelligence in a Slim Profile
The Saros 10R delivers flagship performance in Roborock’s slimmest robot body to date. Replacing the traditional LDS module with StarSight™ Autonomous System 2.0, the Saros 10R boasts real-time mapping via AI-powered dual-light 3DToF and RGB cameras. It recognises up to 108 different obstacles and maneuvers around obstacles along its way – making it ideal for households with kids, pets, and cluttered spaces.

With 19,000 Pa suction power, dual spinning mops, and a certified dual anti-tangle system, the Saros 10R is both powerful and low-maintenance. Its Multifunctional Dock 4.0 brings hot water mop washing, auto mop removal, smart charging, and full-fledge of self-maintenance features into the mix.

Built for Australian Homes
Saros Series models are compatible with the Roborock SmartPlan® 2.0 via the Roborock App, enabling AI-driven customisation of cleaning settings, schedules, and routines. While also featuring smart home support, compatible with Apple Siri, Amazon Alexa, Google Home, Apple Watch and the Matter protocol in the future.

Pricing and Availability

The Roborock Saros Series – comprising the Saros Z70, Saros 10, and Saros 10R – will be available in Australia from today at leading Australian retailers across Roborock Australia’s official retail channels, such as Roborock’s Official Online Store and other Participating Authorised Retailers.

  • Roborock Saros Z70 – RRP: $3,999 AUD, available to pre-order now on Roborock’s Official Online Store.
  • Roborock Saros 10 – RRP: $2,999 AUD, available now.
  • Roborock Saros 10R – RRP: $2,899 AUD, available from May 2025.

ENDS

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://au.roborock.com/.  

*Roborock was the first in the robotic vacuum industry to mass-produce this technology, launching it in January 2025.

**Based on internal testing carried out by the manufacturer. Actual results may vary due to environmental factors and software updates.

 

Saros 10R
Saros 10R

Saros Z70
Saros Z70