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Sony Exhibits at CES® 2025

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To create a future filled with Kando together with creators:

Showcasing its innovative technologies and initiatives to maximize the value of content IP under the “Creative Entertainment Vision”

TOKYO, Jan. 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Sony Group Corporation (“Sony”) will exhibit at CES® 2025, taking place in Las Vegas, Nevada from Tuesday, Jan. 7 (PST), under the theme “Creative Entertainment Vision,” the long-term vision for where Sony wants to be in 10 years.

Hiroki Totoki, President, COO and CFO of Sony Group Corporation took the stage at Sony’s press conference held on Monday, Jan. 6. Together with a diverse array of speakers, he introduced a number of foundational initiatives leading towards Sony’s “Creative Entertainment Vision” including new solutions that enable creative freedom such as a new vehicle processing system, and the latest solutions for spatial content creation. In addition to introducing initiatives in the field of anime to expand the fan community, Sony also highlighted projects for turning game IP into visual works, co-creation with music artists, and new location-based entertainment experiences as measures to expand the world of game IP from multiple perspectives. Among them, the production of an anime series based on the game “Ghost of Tsushima: Legends,” the launch of a new manga app “Crunchyroll Manga,” and the release month for the drama series “The Last of Us” season 2 were announced.

Additionally, with guest speaker Roger Goodell, Commissioner of the US National Football League, Sony shared the latest developments in the evolution of sports entertainment. In addition, Sony Honda Mobility also unveiled its EV “AFEELA 1,” for which it will begin accepting orders from 2025, as an example of mobility innovation.

Totoki closed the press conference by emphasizing that Sony’s “Creative Entertainment Vision” involves creators, partners and Sony colleagues working together, to create infinite realities for everyone that will spark imaginations and generate a boundless sense of Kando.

Sony’s press conference at CES 2025 can be viewed on its official YouTube channel:
URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IV95SMpTW-M

Press Conference speakers (In order of appearance)Hiroki Totoki (President, COO and CFO, Sony Group Corporation)Neal Manowitz (President and COO, Sony Electronics Inc.)Roger Goodell (Commissioner, National Football League)Yasuhide Mizuno (Representative Director, Chairperson and CEO, Sony Honda Mobility Inc.)Jonny Slow (CEO, Pixomondo)Thaisa Yamamura (Head of XR Business Development, Sony Electronics Inc.)Atsuhiro Iwakami (President, Aniplex Inc.)Rahul Purini (President, Crunchyroll)Ravi Ahuja (President and CEO, Sony Pictures Entertainment)Asad Qizilbash (Head of PlayStation Productions)Ashley Brucks (President, Screen Gems)Neil Druckmann (Studio Head and Head of Creative, Naughty Dog)

Booth Overview
Dates: Tuesday, Jan. 7 to Friday, Jan. 10, 2025
Venue: Las Vegas Convention Center, Booth # 20800

Main Exhibits
Based on its “Creative Entertainment Vision,” the long-term vision for where Sony wants to be in 10 years, the exhibition will focus on the latest technologies and initiatives to unleash the creativity of creators and maximize the value of IP. The booth is structured around the three phases of Sony’s Creative Entertainment Vision: “Creativity Unleashed,” “Boundaries Transcended,” and “Narratives Everywhere.” It also features an artistic expression of the future of creation Sony envisions, in which content is born and expanded through co-creation between creators.

New Vehicle Processing System that Utilizes Virtual Production: “PXO AKIRA”
This exhibit introduces “PXO AKIRA” for the first time, a new cutting-edge system that transforms the traditional method of shooting vehicles, by enhancing safety, reducing costs, and maximizing creative freedom. PXO AKIRA combines an advanced robotic camera crane with a custom-built motion platform, LED volume technology and an integrated digital twin tool to deliver an all-in-one solution for filming vehicles using Virtual Production in any setting. Additionally, the exhibit will showcase a 3D reconstruction tool that perfectly complements PXO AKIRA, offering the capability to capture real-world environments and transform them into immersive, 3D digital backgrounds.

“XYN™” Integrated Software and Hardware Solution Designed to Support the Creation of Spatial Content 
Sony Corporation announced today the launch of “XYN™,” an integrated software and hardware solution designed to support the creation of spatial content. Leveraging unique technologies in imaging, sensing, and display, “XYN” employs proprietary algorithms to accurately capture and reproduce objects, human motion, and backgrounds in real-world spaces, enabling efficient reproduction in a 3D Computer Graphics (CG) production environment and facilitating the construction of flexible workflows. Attendees can experience products and solutions currently under development at the booth.

*For further details, please refer to Sony Corporation’s press release and the concept video.
Press release: https://www.sony.net/corporate/information/news/202501/25-001E/
Concept video: https://youtu.be/WPBmlGIiAOE

LEGO® Horizon Adventures™ Brings the Music of mxmtoon Alive
LEGO® Horizon Adventures™ is a playful and light-hearted story inspired by the world of Horizon and made fully out of LEGO elements. Its theme song, written and produced by mxmtoon, further extends the Horizon franchise in an innovative way, whereby a teaser of the music video will be released at CES. The video leverage assets produced for the game by using Epic Games’ Unreal Engine to expand the game into animated content.
This project is an amazing collaboration with mxmtoon’s music that crossed the creativity of multiple teams, including Guerrilla, The LEGO Group, Pixomondo, and Sony. At the booth, visitors will be able to play the game and get a sneak peek of the music video, as well as to watch the behind-the-scenes that highlights the creative and production process.

Experience based on the theme “Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Infinity Castle”
Aniplex Inc. is a comprehensive entertainment company with a wide range of businesses operating worldwide, including the planning and production of video and music works, primarily in the area of animation; game planning and development; theatrical production and distribution; and the planning, production and sales of merchandise.
At the booth, visitors can engage in experiences the themed around the anime series Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba, which is based on the manga by Koyoharu Gotoge published under SHUEISHA’s JUMP COMICS, and has over 150 million copies in publication. The animation production is by ufotable. The exhibit will include a photo booth that recreates the poster for the movie Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Infinity Castle, the first in a trilogy of films that will be released in theaters worldwide in 2025.

Immersive Location-based Entertainment Concept based on “The Last of Us”
Sony is exploring ways to expand the value of content IP by developing a proof-of-concept for location-based entertainment with various technologies such as video, audio, and haptics to provide creators with new avenues for expression. At the booth, this future immersive entertainment concept features the suspenseful action-adventure game “The Last of Us” with high-definition video, 3D sound and olfactory technologies.

*The exhibition is also being presented on the online platform “Sony Square.”
URL: https://square.sony.com/ces2025/
*Images from Sony at CESⓇ 2025 can be downloaded here.
URL: https://www.sony.com/ja/pressroom/pict_data/event/ces2025.html
*For details of the announcement regarding “AFEELA 1,” please visit the Sony Honda Mobility website.
URL: https://www.shm-afeela.com/en/

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SOURCE Sony Group Corporation

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

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January 9, 2025

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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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January 9, 2025

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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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January 9, 2025

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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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