This kite is being used to pull cargo ships

Seawing, developed by French company Airseas, is similar to what kitesurfers use, but on a larger scale.

Their new kite can soar up to 1,000 feet above a ship, pulling it forward with the wind's energy.

• This wind-powered assistance could slash fuel consumption and carbon emissions by an average of 20%, according to Airseas.

• They already have orders from Airbus and K-Line, a shipping company in Japan.

The whole operation is automated – an autopilot system computer program controls the kite's flight, while a 700-meter long cable keeps it connected to the ship, supplying power and transmitting data.

The shipping industry is a major contributor to global pollution, responsible for roughly 3% of greenhouse gas emissions. Airseas is looking to change that with Seawing by having giant kites that act as wings for these ships.

Airseas isn't alone in trying to clean cargo ships. Other companies are exploring modern sail designs to achieve similar results while the European Commission provides funding to support these efforts.

• Airseas themselves received $2.7 million in funding from the EU.

JD.com's CEO used an AI avatar of himself during a live-stream

JD.com’s CEO, Richard Liu, just debuted an AI avatar of himself.

The realistic avatar of Liu is complete with his voice, mannerisms, and even his signature hand gestures. During the event, the AI avatar stuck to a script.

The AI behind Liu's avatar is impressive.

• It can answer up to 70% of common livestream questions

• JD.com revealed that their AI virtual hosts manage promotions for over 4000 brands

• It lowers by 90% compared to traditional livestreaming with human hosts

Liu's avatar debut was a hit, getting over 20 million views during the stream, promoting consumer electronics and groceries for roughly 40 minutes.

• It also generated RMB 50 million within the single livestream.

As China gears up for the 618 shopping festival, JD.com is using AI avatars as a strategy. They're offering free trials of this AI avatar tech to merchants, hoping to give them a competitive edge in the live streaming department.

Soum wants to dominate selling pre-owned electronics

Struggle with buying or selling used electronics online? And going through endless ads, worried about getting scammed?

Soum is a startup in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region that aims to take care of these.

Soum is a trusted platform for buying and selling pre-owned mobiles and electronics. 

• They guarantee quality products at great prices, and if you're not happy, you get your money back.

• They handle everything from listing to secure delivery, giving you peace of mind throughout the process.

Why Choose Soum?

• They act as a middleman, ensuring a smooth and scam-free experience for both buyers and sellers.

• They offer like-new devices at good prices. They also plan on having a growing selection of pre-owned items, from cars and collectibles.

• Listing an item is simple – just take some photos and get it approved. Soum holds onto your money until the buyer confirms they've received their purchase.

The global market for secondhand goods is booming. With their recent $18 million funding boost, they're focused on expanding across the MENA region, starting with the United Arab Emirates.

• Their vision? To be the ultimate one-stop shop, where you can buy and sell anything from smartphones to cars.