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Groover Raises $8 Million in Series A Funding to Provide All-in-One Music Promotion Platform for Independent Artists

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NEW YORK, Feb. 13, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Groover, the innovative music promotion platform, announces today an $8 million Series A funding round, led by investors OneRagtime, Trind, Techmind, and MozzaAngels, and supported by historical backers, Partech, Bpifrance’s Tech & Touch fund, Verve Ventures, and Frenchfounders.

This new financing will consolidate Groover’s position as an all-in-one platform solution by integrating additional services such as promotion, marketing, coaching, and career development support, additionally to strengthen the company’s strategic presence in the North American, European, and Latin American markets.

“The success of this funding round represents a crucial step in our journey,” says Groover’s co-founder and CEO, Romain Palmieri. “With these new investments, Groover is poised to write a new chapter, solidifying its position as a global reference in music promotion. Our goal is to provide independent artists with an all-in-one platform supported by innovative features and services and keep accelerating our international development in North America, Europe and Latin America.”

This news comes at a time when, despite the technical ease of producing and distributing music online, musicians face significant challenges in standing out and gaining visibility due to the oversaturation of the music landscape. In 2023 alone, over 120,000 new tracks were released daily.

All-in-One Platform for Independent Artists

Launched in 2019 by Dorian Perron, Rafael Cohen, and Romain Palmieri, musicians and music journalists themselves, Groover seeks to boost independent artists’ careers by providing direct networking opportunities with key players in the music industry. Specifically, artists can use the Groover platform to find and connect with music professionals – almost 3000 selected music professionals and curators – to get direct, constructive, and timely feedback on their work, often leading to concrete development opportunities. Since its launch, Groover has attracted nearly 350,000 independent artists from over 180 countries, generating over 4 million personalized reviews.

Groover now aims to further support its users by integrating two additional services to the platform: Groover Club and Groover Obsessions.

Groover Club membership service offers coaching, masterclasses, and personalized follow-up sessions to 1,000 artists in France and the US to help artists increase their visibility with detailed advice. Groover Obsessions, a selective program, provides career development opportunities to the most promising artists on the platform, boosting the visibility and profitability of their music production to the next level. Among the 300 artists currently supported by the Groover Obsessions program are Gorillaz’s bassist, Seye Adelekan, indie band Faux Real, up-and-coming musician ZOLA, and Swiss Olympic snowboarder and indie folk artist Pat Burgener, to just name a few.

Expanding Global Presence

With operations in the US, Canada, Italy, Brazil, the UK, France, and Germany, Groover currently generates 80% of its revenue internationally. With this funding, the startup aims to develop an international expansion strategy, reinforcing and furthering its presence in Europe, North America, and Latin America.

As part of this plan, the platform is intensifying global recruitment efforts, targeting top talents in tech, product and business development. Since the beginning of 2024, the company has already hired marketing, product, and tech profiles with prior experience in the music industry. The successful launch of Groover’s New York office in early 2022 has already propelled the US to become Groover’s top market in just six months, contributing to nearly 40% of its current revenue.

Investor’s quote: “At OneRagtime, we are delighted to support Groover in this growth phase,” says Stéphanie Hospital, CEO, and founder of OneRagtime. “Groover’s ability to connect artists with media and industry professionals is unique, and the vision of becoming the all-in-one platform for independent artists is particularly inspiring. We are confident that Groover will continue to redefine the landscape of music promotion, and we look forward to contributing to this success story.”

For additional information or inquiries, please contact Michelle Alberini-Krapian at groover@kalamari.agency 

About Groover: Founded in 2018, Groover is an innovative music promotion platform that connects key players in the music industry with independent artists through direct networking opportunities. Since its public launch in January 2019, Since its launch in 2019, Groover has attracted nearly 350,000 independent artists from over 180 countries, generating over 4 million personalized reviews.

About OneRagtime: OneRagtime is a venture capital platform founded by Stéphanie Hospital and Jean-Marie Messier. Since 2017, OneRagtime has sourced, financed, and scaled +45 start-ups in France and Europe.

With its unique platform model, OneRagtime allows its investor community to invest in the most-promising French and European startups through its funds or dedicated club deals, while giving entrepreneurs unparalleled network and business acceleration.

About Partech: 
Partech is a global tech investment firm headquartered in Paris, with offices in Berlin, Dakar, Dubai, Nairobi, and San Francisco. We are a team made up of independent thinkers. We are unconstrained by hype, trend or fixed ways of working. We believe in the power of alliance in action, working together and side-by-side with the founders we back, in the shared pursuit of success. We bring together capital, operational experience and strategic support for the entrepreneurs we back from seed through to growth stage. Born in San Francisco 40 years ago, today we manage €2.5B AUM and our current portfolio of 220 companies in 40 countries, across 4 continents.

About Bpifrance: Bpifrance is the French national investment bank: it finances businesses – at every stage of their development – through loans, guarantees, equity investments, and export insurance. Bpifrance also provides extra financial services (training, consultancy) to help entrepreneurs grow their businesses and overcome the challenges they face.

Website: http://www.bpifrance.fr and presse.bpifrance.fr X : @Bpifrance – @BpifrancePresse

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HONOR Redefines Mobile AI Solutions with PC powered by Snapdragon, on-device AI Agent and AI Deepfake Detection at IFA 2024

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HONOR, Qualcomm, and Microsoft Redefine Innovations in Mobile AI

BERLIN, Sept. 7, 2024 /CNW/ — Today at IFA 2024, HONOR unveiled three groundbreaking mobile AI Solutions: AI PC powered by Snapdragon® X Elite platforms, AI Agent and AI Deepfake Detection. The launch was accompanied by a thought-provoking panel discussion featuring HONOR CEO George Zhao; Alex Katouzian, Group GM of MCX at Qualcomm Technologies, Inc.; and Mark Linton, VP of Device Partner Sales at Microsoft. Together, they explored the convergence of AI and Snapdragon technology, discussing how these innovations are shaping the future of mobile AI.

“When it comes to mobile computing, AI is not just a buzzword, it’s a revolution,” commented George Zhao, CEO of HONOR Device Co., Ltd. “At HONOR, we’re committed to working with our partners to deliver powerful AI capabilities and seamless connectivity, while protecting our users’ privacy. Through open collaboration with industry leaders, we’re creating devices that empower individuals and redefine what’s possible.”

“At Qualcomm Technologies, we believe the NPU is the key to unlocking the true potential of AI in PCs,” added Alex Katouzian, Group GM of MCX, Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. “The Snapdragon X Elite with its industry-leading NPU performance empowers AI PCs like the HONOR MagicBook Art 14 to deliver next-generation AI experiences. Not only will users see a significant boost in capabilities, but the NPU’s efficiency also translates to longer battery life, allowing users to stay productive for extended periods.”

HONOR MagicBook Art 14 Snapdragon: Redefining PC in the Mobile AI Era
The PC landscape is undergoing a radical transformation, driven by advancements in AI and the rise of Snapdragon platforms. Fueled by HONOR’s platform-level AI capabilities and developed in collaboration with top industry leaders, HONOR MagicBook Art 14 Snapdragon heralds a new era of computing.

Featuring a sleek and compact design, the HONOR MagicBook Art 14 Snapdragon is a marvel of lightweight engineering. It incorporates cutting-edge platform-level AI features alongside robust hardware and software solutions, ensuring unmatched productivity and user experience. It translates the lightweight and slim characteristics of smartphones to laptops, delivering the lightest and slimmest AI PC on the market, weighing approximately 1kg with a slimness of 1cm. Delivering an immersive visual journey, the HONOR MagicBook Art 14 Snapdragon features a captivating 14.6-inch HONOR FullView Touch Display boasting a crystal-clear 3.1K resolution. It also includes an outstanding 97% screen-to-body ratio, the largest among 14-inch laptops. The HONOR MagicBook Art 14 Snapdragon is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite, elevating the computing experience to new heights in terms of power, efficiency, and security.

The HONOR MagicBook Art 14 Snapdragon also enables a smooth transition of Windows applications on X86 to the Windows on Snapdragon architecture. Based on years of research on the ecosystem, HONOR created a Hotspot Library that uses platform-level AI to identify frequently used scenarios and trigger translation optimization efficiently. HONOR has improved 16% of the average boot-up time1 with translation optimization across a diverse array of Windows applications. Currently, HONOR has optimized a total of the Top 14 applications across six major categories, including browsers, online meetings, media, office, social software and tools.

The HONOR MagicBook Art 14 Snapdragon will be soon available in German, France and Italy.  For preorder, please visit HONOR online store now at www.honor.com.

Seamless AI Experiences Elevated by the Power of MagicRing
In the mobile AI era, seamless cross-OS connectivity will truly empower users to unlock AI everywhere. Unlike the manual point-to-point connections in traditional solutions, the HONOR MagicRing allows multiple devices of the same account to automatically connect with low power consumption.

The MagicRing not only connects devices but also connects services across the devices. The solution also enables users to use the same set of keyboard and mouse for multiple devices, receive calls and notifications on a device other than their smartphones, and control the smartphone’s camera on the PC. With the secure and smooth flow of services and information across devices, MagicRing makes multi-device AI experience easier. For example, as one of the typical scenarios of Windows on Snapdragon experience, Cocreator allows users to produce fantastic artwork with simple draws. Powered by MagicRing, users can seamlessly access Cocreator on their HONOR MagicPad 2, drawing AI masterpieces with their Magic-Pencil. In the Meanwhile, they can also use AI Eraser from HONOR Magic V3 on the HONOR MagicBook Art 14 Snapdragon to experience unparalleled levels of convenient mobile AI.

HONOR AI Agent: The First On-device AI Agent for the Open Ecosystem
The HONOR AI Agent is a revolutionary always-on personal assistant designed to enhance and simplify users’ daily lives. By intuitively understanding users’ requests and intentions through language analysis and UI awareness technology, the AI Agent that learns from their habits and device environment can intelligently make decisions across various apps and services. This capability allows it to automate complex tasks. HONOR demonstrated how to find and cancel unwanted app subscriptions across different apps with just a few simple voice commands on their smartphones.

As we look to the future, the HONOR AI Agent is poised to become the cornerstone of mobile AI, and it is anticipated to arrive with the HONOR Magic7 Series later this year in China. This innovation not only signifies a leap in technology but also heralds a new era where AI seamlessly integrates into our daily routines, enhancing everyday productivity and efficiency.

The World’s First On-device AI Deepfake Detection Technology
As the technology behind deepfakes becomes more sophisticated, the potential for misuse, including identity theft and the spread of disinformation, grows significantly. HONOR’s on-device AI Deepfake Detection represents a groundbreaking solution designed to protect users from the increasingly prevalent threat of deepfakes. This innovative detection system employs advanced algorithms to meticulously analyze various elements, including pixel-level synthetic imperfections, border compositing artifacts, inter-frame continuity, consistency in face-to-ear hairstyle, and the positioning of synthetic traces. By examining these characteristics, the technology can accurately identify manipulated content, distinguishing between genuine media and deceptive alterations.

About HONOR 
HONOR is a leading global provider of smart devices. It is dedicated to becoming a global iconic technology brand and creating a new intelligent world for everyone through its powerful products and services. With an unwavering focus on R&D, it is committed to developing technology that empowers people around the globe to go beyond, giving them the freedom to achieve and do more. Offering a range of high-quality smartphones, tablets, laptops and wearables to suit every budget, HONOR’s portfolio of innovative, premium and reliable products enable people to become a better version of themselves.

For more information, please visit HONOR online at www.honor.com or email newsroom@honor.com 

https://community.honor.com/  
https://www.facebook.com/honorglobal/  
https://twitter.com/Honorglobal  
https://www.instagram.com/honorglobal/  
https://www.youtube.com/c/HonorOfficial  

1Data comes from HONOR labs.

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SDAIA to Unveil Key AI Strategies and International Collaborations at Global AI Summit Press Conference

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RIYADH, Saudi Arabia, Sept. 7, 2024 /CNW/ — The Saudi Authority for Data and Artificial Intelligence (SDAIA) will hold a press conference on Sunday, September 8, at the King Abdulaziz International Conference Center. The press conference will highlight key aspects of the upcoming third edition of the Global AI Summit, taking place under the patronage of His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince, Prime Minister, and Chairman of SDAIA’s Board of Directors. The summit is scheduled for September 10-12, 2024, and will feature over 300 speakers, attracting global thought leaders, policymakers, and AI experts from more than 100 countries.

The press conference will feature remarks from prominent figures, including H.E. Dr. Abdullah bin Sharaf Alghamdi, President of SDAIA, H.E. Dr. Esam bin Abdullah Alwagait, Director of the National Information Center (NIC), and H.E. Dr. Yaser bin Mohammed Al-Onaizan, CEO of the National Center for AI (NCAI) in SDAIA.

Key topics to be covered during the press conference will include the significance of the Crown Prince’s patronage, the summit’s focus areas, and its anticipated impact on the good of humanity, particularly amid the rapid development of AI technologies. It will also showcase how AI is driving economic growth, creating new sectors and industries, and addressing global challenges. Furthermore, the press conference will spotlight Saudi Arabia’s leadership in promoting responsible AI use and ethics on the international stage, while addressing both the opportunities and challenges AI presents.

For more information about the GAIN Summit, please visit:  https://globalaisummit.org/en/default.aspx   

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More Than a Device: Timekettle Unveils W4 Pro AI Interpreter Earbuds at IFA 2024

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BERLIN, Sept. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Timekettle, the expert in AI translator earbuds, has unveiled its latest innovation, the W4 Pro AI Interpreter Earbuds, at the International Funkausstellung (IFA) 2024. More than a device, the W4 Pro functions like a personal assistant, catering to the cross-language communication needs when hosting foreign guests, conducting multi-language online meetings, or traveling abroad for business or leisure.

“Interpreter earbuds like the W4 Pro are essential even when phones can be used for translation, because they cater to a more refined and immersive user experience,” said Leal Tian, the CEO of Timekettle. “In cross-language communication, there’s a growing need for meaningful conversations and deeper connections beyond basic translations, especially for business pros, immigrants, and travelers. The W4 Pro meets these needs by allowing natural, hands-free conversations with eye contact, making interactions smoother.”

The W4 Pro caters to diverse communication needs in three distinct modes. The first mode focuses on one-on-one simultaneous interpreting. It features advanced technology that allows for instant translation in a two-way conversational setting. Its dual interpretation system redefines successful communication by allowing two voices to merge into a singular flow. The earbuds also incorporate a triple microphone array that enhances voice recognition and translation accuracy.

For professionals navigating multilingual meetings, the W4 Pro’s Listen & Play mode is an ideal choice. It allows seamless switching between listening and speaking with simultaneous interpretation. Timekettle’s AI Semantic Segmentation ensures rapid sentence parsing, enhancing communication and productivity, while AI Memo provides intelligent post-meeting summaries.

The third mode caters to online interactions such as video calls or streaming foreign media content, ensuring users understand every word with real-time translated subtitles and audio summaries post-meeting or event. In addition, unexpected phone calls in a foreign language are no longer a concern, as the W4 Pro offers one-way assisted translation and real-time transcription subtitles, enabling quick information grasp and efficient conversations.

Understanding the importance of user comfort and efficiency, Timekettle has equipped the W4 Pro with an open-ear design, ensuring prolonged comfort without compromising privacy or hygiene. Additionally, its high-end sound quality enriches every interaction, making it comparable to professional audio systems.

Significant Milestone to “Babel Fish”

Timekettle was inspired by the “Babel Fish,” a magical creature from the sci-fi movie “The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy.” “Babel Fish” allows people to understand alien languages. Since its inception, Timekettle has been striving to create a real-life “Babel Fish,” enabling everyone to communicate freely across different languages.

Over the past eight years, Timekettle has revolutionized cross-language cultural communication through a series of innovative products. Initially, Timekettle introduced a handheld translator, which, despite requiring users to press a button and wait, significantly aided in understanding across languages. The evolution continued with the M3 Translator Earbuds, allowing users to listen and respond, though still necessitating manual switching of audio channels.

The breakthrough came with the Timekettle WT2 Edge Simultaneous Translator Earbuds, featuring HybridComm™ technology that enabled two-way, real-time communication. Users could speak and listen simultaneously, making conversations more natural and efficient.

Early this year, Timekettle further advanced its technology to process multiple people’s audio in five different languages simultaneously, pushing the boundaries of cross-language communication.

Each of Timekettle’s technological advancements aims to make cross-language communication as seamless as same-language interactions. And now, the Timekettle W4 Pro AI Interpreter Earbuds enable smooth, effective communication in global business negotiations across languages. Looking forward, Timekettle remains committed to achieving universal communication freedom, continuously enhancing its products to facilitate natural and efficient cross-language interactions.

About Timekettle

Established in 2016, Timekettle is dedicated to advancing cross-language communication through innovative products and solutions. Recognized with numerous international accolades, including the CES Innovation Award, iF Design Award, and Japan Good Design Award, Timekettle’s products have proudly served the needs of cross-language communication in a variety of user scenarios, including abroad-living, traveling, multi-language meetings and classrooms, as well as in manufacturing and logistics, and beyond. Having solidified a user database of more than 400,000, Timekettle continues its journey as the Global No.1 AI Translator Device.

For more information, please visit https://www.timekettle.co/

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