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Illumina advances NovaSeq X Series, delivering single-flow-cell system, software upgrade, and new kits to enable multiomic applications

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Software upgrade advances complete workflow solutions

New NovaSeq X 25B 100-cycle and 200-cycle kits enhance multiomic capabilities on NovaSeq X, and enable newly released Illumina Single-Cell Prep

SAN DIEGO, Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Illumina, Inc. (NASDAQ: ILMN), a global leader in DNA sequencing and array-based technologies, today announced a series of updates to its NovaSeq X Series, delivering the NovaSeq X single-flow-cell system alongside a cutting-edge software upgrade and new kits.

Now in the market for the first time, the single-flow-cell NovaSeq X Sequencing System offers the same high-quality flow cells and speed as the NovaSeq X Plus Sequencing System—Illumina’s most rapidly adopted and utilized high-throughput sequencing platform to date—at a more accessible cost for labs with lower volume. The sequencers began shipping in December, and simultaneously the company introduced the software v1.3 upgrade for the NovaSeq X Series to elevate sequencing performance and advance data quality. Additionally, new NovaSeq X 25B 100- and 200-cycle kits began shipping in December, which will be key enablers of multiomic applications, including the Illumina Single-Cell 3′ RNA Prep (Illumina Single Cell Prep), now available under Illumina’s brand following the company’s acquisition of Fluent.

“This is the same instrument the scientific community has come to rely on for next-generation sequencing, now with upgraded software, new kits, and the option for a lower volume,” said Steve Barnard, PhD, chief technology officer of Illumina. “Based on customer input, we’ve invested heavily in innovations to make the platform even stronger and more versatile, supporting total workflows with flexible applications spanning genomics and multiomics. Customers are already raving about the powerful capabilities of the software upgrade.”

Customers affirm the value of the software upgrade 

The newly launched software upgrade delivers key enhancements that optimize sequencing workflows. Version 1.3 provides laboratories with improved sequencing accuracy and higher yields to ensure dependable and precise results, even with challenging, low-diversity samples. The reduction in PhiX dependency also means more usable data per run, helping researchers maximize their throughput and their confidence in their sequencing outputs. 

Génome Québec is a nonprofit organization that provides genomic services for researchers in the academic and industrial fields of 45 countries. In their experience testing the v1.3 software they noted a significant leap in data quality across a broad variety of library types. Geneviève DonPierre, team leader of NGS Sequencing at Génome Québec, stated, “The increased yield, enhanced sequencing accuracy, reduced PhiX dependency, and optimized handling of low-diversity libraries have transformed our operations. This update ensures consistently reliable outputs and empowers us to achieve superior results, reinforcing our confidence in every sequencing run.” 

Broad Clinical Labs also participated in early-access testing. The organization’s director of Laboratory Operations, Tom Howd, said: “We have observed significant high-quality data yield increases in early testing of the version 1.3 update on our NovaSeq X Plus fleet. We are eager to make these yield increases available to all our users to continue to advance their science.”

Bert Groet, laboratory specialist clinical genetics and team leader of the NGS core facility at University Medical Center Utrecht, affirms: “With the release of software version 1.3 on the NovaSeq X Plus, Illumina brings to our genome lab a decisive development to transition from whole-exome-based to whole-genome-based analysis. The significant increase in total sequencing yield, without compromise to high Q30 scores, ensures the promise of high throughput and high-quality whole-genome sequencing we can rely on to deliver answers to those we will be serving.”

Expanding capabilities with the 25B 100-cycle and 200-cycle kits

The new 25B 100-cycle and 200-cycle kits for the NovaSeq X Series, which began shipping in December, are optimized for counting applications and other assays at scale, offering shorter turnaround times and more cost-effective runs. By providing flexibility in run sizes and cycle counts, the 25B kits address the evolving needs of clinical specialty labs, academic core labs, and service providers.

Illumina Single-Cell Prep

Also announced today, Illumina Single-Cell Prep, formerly Fluent PipSeq V, is now available and shipping to customers with broad compatibility across Illumina’s NGS platform portfolio, including NextSeq 1000/2000, NovaSeq 6000, and NovaSeq X. The single-cell sample prep technology removes many of the barriers and limitations of current methods, enabling scalability of experiments from hundreds to millions of cells with the same process and turnaround time. Low equipment cost, lower cost per cell, and high sensitivity allow for customers who are new to single-cell sequencing to adopt the technology quickly and easily, with exceptional performance while providing cost-efficient scaling to large numbers of cells for analysis that is possible only on the NovaSeq X 25B flow cell.

At the annual meeting of the American Society of Human Genetics in November, Shane Liddelow, PhD, associate professor in the Department of Neuroscience and Physiology at NYU Grossman School of Medicine, presented early access data and insights on the innovative technology enabling the sequencing of challenging cell types, such as astrocytes and brain tissue, which are notoriously difficult to analyze with microfluidic devices due to issues like clogging and other technical barriers.

The new 25B kits for the NovaSeq X Series are compatible with Illumina Single-Cell Prep, introducing highly efficient, affordable, and accurate workflows for large scale, single-cell analysis projects. Illumina Single-Cell Prep provides streamlined bioinformatics workflows from NovaSeq X Series sequencers streaming data directly into automated DRAGEN analysis in Illumina’s informatics cloud solutions. Partek Flow enables comprehensive visualization and interpretation of large-scale Illumina Single-Cell Prep data sets for differential expression and biomarker discovery.

Use of forward-looking statements

This release may contain forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. Among the important factors to which our business is subject that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in any forward-looking statements are: (i) challenges inherent in developing and launching new products and services, including modifying and scaling manufacturing operations, and reliance on third-party suppliers for critical components; (ii) our ability to manufacture robust instrumentation and consumables; and (iii) the acceptance by customers of our newly launched products, which may or may not meet our and their expectations, together with other factors detailed in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including our most recent filings on Forms 10-K and 10-Q, or in information disclosed in public conference calls, the date and time of which are released beforehand. We undertake no obligation, and do not intend, to update these forward-looking statements, to review or confirm analysts’ expectations, or to provide interim reports or updates on the progress of the current quarter.

About Illumina

Illumina is improving human health by unlocking the power of the genome. Our focus on innovation has established us as a global leader in DNA sequencing and array-based technologies, serving customers in the research, clinical, and applied markets. Our products are used for applications in the life sciences, oncology, reproductive health, agriculture, and other emerging segments. To learn more, visit illumina.com and connect with us on X, Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube.

Contacts

Investors:
Salli Schwartz
858-291-6421
IR@illumina.com

Media:
Christine Douglass
PR@illumina.com

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SOURCE Illumina, Inc.

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2025 Consumer Texting Behavior Report: Consumers Demand SMS Notifications and Conversations

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Consumers embrace SMS Marketing like never before, with 86% opting in and expectations for instant, tailored communication soaring.

SAN FRANCISCO, Jan. 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — EZ Texting, the leading text marketing platform for businesses of all sizes, released the 2025 Consumer Texting Behavior Report today. Now in its fourth year, the report underscores a remarkable trend: with a staggering 98% open rate, SMS has evolved from a communication tool to the cornerstone of audience engagement, driving immediate and meaningful interactions.

EZ Texting’s 2025 Consumer Survey results reveal consumers embrace SMS marketing like never before, with 86% opting in.

“Consumers are clear about their preferences: they want businesses to communicate with them through SMS,” said Punit Shah, Co-Founder and Chief Marketing Officer. “From promotional offers to providing customer support, customers now prefer SMS for its speed, delivery, and convenience above all other forms of communication, including social and email. Businesses that react to this trend will find themselves with positive customer engagement, and those that don’t are at risk of missing customer needs. Texting is no longer just a nice-to-have, it is now a must-have communication channel.”

Consumers Expect Texting for Every Business Need

The 2025 report reveals growing consumer reliance on SMS for appointment reminders, promotional updates, and customer support. Among the most striking findings:

86% of consumers now opt in for business texts, a 20% increase since 2021.79% of consumers are more likely to purchase when subscribed, increasing 21% from 2024.52% of consumers text businesses more often, a 31% increase over 2023.

SMS Marketing Drives Action & Builds Loyalty

Consumers are increasingly turning to SMS as their go-to communication channel with brands. Highlights include:

71% of consumers subscribe to texts without needing a prior purchase.47% share feedback via SMS, rising from 35% in 2024.63% of consumers text more overall, with 52% texting businesses, compared to 31% last year.

Consumers Demand Speed & Personalization

Consumer expectations for responsiveness are higher than ever:

57% expect businesses to respond within 15 minutes.67% show increased interest in products after receiving a text, an increase of 21% from 2024.49% purchase more often after receiving a text, underscoring the power of timely communication.

Survey Methodology

EZ Texting conducted the 2025 Consumer Texting Behavior Report to analyze consumer attitudes and behaviors related to SMS marketing.

Survey Timeframe: Nov. 1–Nov. 15, 2024Participants: 1,074 qualified respondents with personal mobile phones

About EZ Texting
Since 2004, EZ Texting has provided 230,000+ growing businesses and organizations with an effortless way to start text marketing—and powerful features and integrations to keep conversations going.

CONTACT:
Marco Raye
Content Marketing Manager
Email: mraye@eztexting.com

Journalists & Media
pr@eztexting.com

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/2025-consumer-texting-behavior-report-consumers-demand-sms-notifications-and-conversations-302346459.html

SOURCE EZ Texting

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Kotak Life launches ‘Kavya’: AI-powered HR Assistant aimed at enhancing Employee Engagement and Experience

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MUMBAI, India, Jan. 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Kotak Mahindra Life Insurance Company Ltd (“Kotak Life”) has unveiled Kavya, an advanced HR virtual assistant powered by generative AI, designed to enhance employee experience and engagement.

Kavya serves as a trusted companion to Kotak Life’s strong workforce, ensuring that employees are heard confidentially while fostering open communication and connection throughout their professional journey. By engaging in meaningful conversations, Kavya aims to support individual growth and strengthen Kotak Life’s commitment to creating a progressive and supportive work environment.

Ruchira Bhardwaja, Chief Human Resources Officer, Kotak Mahindra Life Insurance Limited, said, “Kavya marks a pivotal moment in our commitment to employee development and satisfaction. With this AI-powered solution, we’re not just modernising HR services – we’re building a more empathetic, accessible and responsive workplace where every employee feels valued and heard.”

Key Features of Kavya 

Confidentiality: Kavya ensures that all interactions and shared information are kept strictly confidential, prioritising employee privacy at all times.Dedicated Support: For new joiners to seasoned professionals, Kavya is there at every milestone in the journey at Kotak Life, offering assistance and guidance.Action: Employees can share feedback and concerns with Kavya, who actively works to implement meaningful changes.Open Communication: Kavya encourages employees to communicate freely, without hesitation, providing a judgment-free space for open dialogue.

About Kotak Mahindra Life Insurance Company Ltd.

Kotak Mahindra Life Insurance Company Limited (Kotak Life) is a 100% owned subsidiary of Kotak Mahindra Bank Limited (Kotak). Kotak Life provides world-class insurance products with high customer empathy. Its product suite leverages the combined prowess of protection and long term savings. Kotak Life is one of the fastest growing insurance companies in India with 322 branches across 152 cities and has covered more than 5 crore active lives as on 31st December 2024.

For further information, please contact:
Shazin Motorwala, 
Kotak Mahindra Life Insurance Company Ltd.,
+91 98332 40021, 
Shazin.Motorwala@kotak.com

Jimit Harde,
Kotak Mahindra Bank,
+91 99300 29645,
Jimit.Harde@kotak.com

Meenakshi Verma, 
The Good Edge,
+91 99875 68227, 
meenakshi@thegoodedge.com

 

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/in/news-releases/kotak-life-launches-kavya-ai-powered-hr-assistant-aimed-at-enhancing-employee-engagement-and-experience-302346904.html

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FusionIQ Celebrates a Breakthrough Year in 2024, Wins Trifecta of Industry Awards

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Wealthtech provider also appoints Sloan Shanahan as Chief Revenue Officer to drive further growth and innovation

WOBURN, Mass., Jan. 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — FusionIQ, a leader in the delivery of cloud-based wealth management solutions, announced today that it achieved significant milestones in 2024, further establishing itself as a key innovator in wealthtech. This marks a pivotal moment in the company’s mission to make digital wealth transformation easy for financial advisors and institutions.

From industry awards to new partnerships and thought leadership to significant product advances, FusionIQ has emerged as a leader in the democratization of wealth as financial advisors and institutions look to fintechs to keep pace with the rapid acceleration of digital transformation in financial services.

Among the Notable Achievements in 2024:

Pre-Integrated Platforms: Leveraging the power of the cloud-native FusionIQ One platform, FusionIQ launched a suite of pre-integrated platforms to make digital wealth transformation easy, fast, and cost-effective for financial advisors and institutions. These platforms included FIQ Journey, the first dual journey platform for financial institutions integrating hybrid digital advice and self-directed investing in a single seamless investor experience, and the groundbreaking FIQ Wallet, the first digital wealth management solution for wallet companies, a significant leap forward in the convergence of wealth management and payment.Strategic Partnerships: The company announced key partnerships with leading financial institutions, including groundbreaking collaborations with OnPoint Community Credit Union and Kinecta Federal Credit Union, expanding access to digital investment services for OnPoint’s 581,000-plus members in Oregon and Southwest Washington, and Kinecta’s more than 270,000 members in California, New York, New Jersey, and Florida.Recognition in Banking Innovation: FusionIQ set the standard for innovation among wealthtech providers in 2024, winning Best-as-a-Service Solution for Wealth Management at the prestigious 2024 Banking Tech Awards USA in May, Best Wealth Management Solution by Vendor (Overall) at the Global BankTech Awards 2024 in September, and Best Digital Solution Provider – WealthTech – Personalization and User Experience at the Banking Tech Awards 2024 in December.SOC 2 Type II Compliance: FusionIQ successfully achieved SOC 2 Type II compliance, demonstrating its commitment to cybersecurity leadership and reinforcing trust with its growing client base.Thought Leadership: On topics ranging from cybersecurity to digital transformation in wealth management, FusionIQ advanced industry knowledge by contributing to 20 thought leadership articles, op-eds, and industry roundtables, establishing the company as a trusted voice in wealth management innovation.

With these achievements, FusionIQ continues to redefine the wealth management experience for institutions and investors across the industry.

Strengthening the C-Suite For Future Growth

In the second half of the year, FusionIQ made strategic leadership appointments to drive its continued growth trajectory. Eric Noll was appointed Chief Executive Officer after successfully completing a significant new fundraising round in October. That same month, Pete Chiccino was named Chief Operating Officer.

In December, Sloan Shanahan joined the executive team as Chief Revenue Officer (CRO), bringing a wealth of expertise in strategic partnerships, sales enablement, and market expansion. Ms. Shanahan has a proven track record of building and leading high-performing teams across top-tier consulting and technology organizations. Her vision aligns perfectly with FusionIQ’s goal of scaling operations and delivering innovative solutions to empower financial institutions in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.

“I’m thrilled to join FusionIQ at this pivotal time,” she said. “The company’s dedication to redefining wealth management through innovation and collaboration is inspiring. I look forward to working with the team to drive measurable business outcomes and forge enduring partnerships across the industry.”

Looking Ahead to 2025

Building on its momentum, FusionIQ is poised to accelerate its growth trajectory in 2025. With its strengthened leadership team and proven track record of success, FusionIQ is well-positioned to lead the next wave of digital transformation in wealth management.

About FusionIQ

FusionIQ makes it easy for financial advisors and institutions to be digital wealth leaders. The cloud-native all-in-one FusionIQ One platform has four modules – Hybrid Digital Advice, Self-Directed Investing, Digital Marketplace, and finTAMP – making digital transformation hassle-free. FusionIQ One powers a range of easy-to-implement products, including FIQ Freedom, FIQ Journey, FIQ Market One, FIQ TAMP+, and FIQ Wallet, making it easy for credit unions, banks, broker-dealers, family offices, RIAs, wallet providers, and asset managers to scale, delivering the digital experience clients and advisors want and the seamless workflows and process automations they need for organic growth. With white-label integrations complete in as little as six weeks, it’s easy to see why FusionIQ One’s integrated multi-custodian platform is quickly becoming the digital solution of choice for advisors and institutions. To learn more, please visit: https://fusioniq.io

Media Contact
Elizabeth Shim
Haven Tower Group
424 317 4861
eshim@haventower.com 

 

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/fusioniq-celebrates-a-breakthrough-year-in-2024-wins-trifecta-of-industry-awards-302345687.html

SOURCE FusionIQ

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