WiMi Hologram Cloud (NASDAQ: WiMi) is taking a bold leap into the future of cybersecurity. The global augmented reality technology company announced that it is conducting deep research on QryptGen, a quantum crypt generator that leverages quantum machine learning to produce highly secure encryption keys.

The move signals WiMi’s growing ambition to position itself at the intersection of quantum computing and data security, two fields increasingly vital to protecting digital assets in a post-quantum world.

Quantum Meets Machine Learning

At the core of QryptGen is a hybrid training algorithm that merges quantum algorithms with traditional stochastic gradient descent methods. This approach takes advantage of quantum computing’s strength in global optimization while retaining the precision and efficiency of classical learning in local optimization.

The result: a more effectively trained quantum generator and discriminator, capable of producing encryption keys with exceptional randomness and security.

Why It Matters

Today’s most widely used encryption systems—RSA and AES—remain secure but face growing threats as computing power advances. Quantum computing could eventually render these algorithms vulnerable, as its superior processing capabilities can theoretically break conventional encryption faster.

Quantum-based encryption, by contrast, relies on the fundamental laws of quantum mechanics, where observing a quantum state inherently alters it—making any attempt at eavesdropping detectable. WiMi’s QryptGen aims to harness this property to produce virtually uncrackable keys.

The Challenges Ahead

While promising, quantum encryption is still a work in progress. The technology faces hurdles, including the stability and scalability of quantum hardware and the continued refinement of quantum algorithms. WiMi acknowledges these obstacles but believes ongoing progress in quantum computing performance will pave the way for real-world deployment.

The Bigger Picture

WiMi’s investment in quantum research marks a strategic expansion beyond its AR roots, aligning the company with a fast-emerging trend: the fusion of AI, quantum computing, and cybersecurity. As data breaches become more sophisticated, the need for quantum-grade protection could redefine how enterprises secure information across networks, IoT systems, and metaverse environments.

“Quantum encryption isn’t just an upgrade—it’s a paradigm shift,” WiMi noted in its announcement. “Our goal is to accelerate the development of a secure digital ecosystem built on the foundations of quantum intelligence.”

If successful, WiMi’s QryptGen could position the company as an early innovator in the quantum data security race, a field attracting global attention from tech giants, defense sectors, and research institutions alike.

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Procurement is getting its own tech summit. Global spend management leader Ivalua has announced the launch of Ivalua TechX, a new event designed to bring together procurement and technology leaders. The event takes place on October 14 in Paris, and aims to redefine how organizations harness data, AI, and innovation to strengthen procurement strategies amid economic uncertainty.

In a climate where volatility is the new normal, procurement’s role has evolved from cost control to strategic command center. Ivalua TechX is set to explore how technology can help procurement leaders balance performance, agility, and sustainability—three pillars shaping the next decade of business resilience.

Where Procurement Meets Intelligence

TechX’s agenda centers on how data and AI can unlock strategic advantages. Attendees can expect deep dives into generative AI for decision-making, the use of analytics for risk mitigation, and emerging best practices in responsible and sustainable procurement.

Confirmed speakers include executives from Vallourec, Covéa, Eiffage, Fnac Darty, and Hutchinson, who will share how technology is transforming procurement within their organizations.

A Convergence of Ecosystems

The event also doubles as a showcase for Ivalua’s expanding ecosystem. Partners such as Altares Dun & Bradstreet, Amazon Business, EcoVadis, IntegrityNext, Moody’s, Prewave, and Trustpair will demonstrate innovations spanning supplier risk management, ESG tracking, compliance automation, and fraud prevention.

“Ivalua TechX is designed to encourage collaboration and spark new ideas,” said Sébastien Gavgani, Technology Alliances Director at Ivalua. “It’s a chance for procurement and technology leaders to explore emerging solutions, identify opportunities to leverage their ecosystem, and connect with peers who are shaping the future of the industry.”

Why It Matters

The launch of Ivalua TechX underscores a broader trend: procurement is no longer a back-office function—it’s a strategic data hub. As AI and automation take center stage, companies are realizing that smarter spend management directly translates into agility, sustainability, and competitive edge.

By turning Paris into the crossroads of procurement innovation, Ivalua is signaling where the future of the function lies—at the intersection of intelligence, responsibility, and technology.

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The payroll industry—long viewed as a back-office formality—is getting a radical upgrade. Mercans, a global leader in payroll technology, has unveiled a sweeping suite of AI-powered capabilities that reimagine payroll as a strategic, data-driven business function rather than a monthly chore.

With this launch, Mercans isn’t merely adding AI to its platform—it’s becoming an AI-first company, embedding intelligence into every aspect of payroll, compliance, and support. The message is clear: the days of static spreadsheets and reactive reporting are numbered.

Payroll Enters the Real-Time Era

At the heart of the transformation is Instaroll™, Mercans’ new real-time payroll orchestration engine. It lets organizations simulate, calculate, and adjust payroll instantly, shifting payroll from a rigid monthly cycle to an agile, on-demand process.

Employees can view their earnings projections in real time, while finance leaders gain continuous visibility into workforce costs—a capability that turns payroll into a forecasting tool, not just a record keeper.

“Payroll has long been seen as a back-office necessity,” said Tatjana Domovits, Group CEO of Mercans. “We are turning it into a front-line strategic advantage. By putting AI at the center of our platform, we’re delivering accuracy, compliance, and insights at a scale and speed never before possible.”

Accuracy as a Built-In Standard

Among the standout innovations is I/O Validation, a built-in AI engine that continuously cross-checks inputs and outputs to ensure payroll accuracy. Unlike rule-based systems that can miss contextual errors, Mercans’ AI learns from past patterns to flag anomalies—before they reach employees or regulators.

This proactive model transforms payroll assurance from a manual task into an autonomous safeguard, saving time, cutting costs, and reducing compliance risk.

From Data to Decision Intelligence

Mercans’ Custom Reporting AI turns payroll data into live business intelligence. Executives can now ask natural-language questions like “Show overtime costs by region for the past three quarters” and instantly receive tailored, interactive reports.

The system doesn’t just retrieve numbers—it interprets trends, identifies anomalies, and presents insights in executive-ready visualizations, positioning payroll data as a strategic decision-making engine.

Compliance Without Borders

For global organizations, Mercans introduces the AI Compliance Hub, which monitors regulatory changes worldwide in real time. It not only interprets updates but proactively guides businesses to remain compliant.

Paired with the Statutory Filing Status & Summary Assistant, the system delivers instant visibility into cross-border filing obligations, turning compliance from a reactive burden into predictive assurance.

24/7 Intelligent Support

Mercans also extends AI to client experience. The company’s AI Support Agents for technical and product issues resolve inquiries instantly, escalating complex cases intelligently to reduce downtime and boost satisfaction.

The Broader Impact

The result is a payroll system that feels less like software and more like a strategic copilot—a system that learns, predicts, and acts. For managed clients, it means lower costs and fewer errors; for SaaS users, it unlocks true self-service with intelligent insights baked in.

“Payroll has always been about compliance and accuracy,” said Domovits. “Today, it’s about intelligence, foresight, and empowerment. Mercans is leading the charge to make payroll the most intelligent business function of the future.”

As competitors rush to adopt AI-driven efficiencies, Mercans’ shift to an AI-first architecture sets a new benchmark for the industry—one where payroll moves from a transactional back-end process to a strategic intelligence layer at the heart of enterprise operations.

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Thailand’s marketing industry is gearing up for its biggest night of the year as MMA Global announces the official shortlist for the SMARTIES™ Thailand 2025 Awards—a showcase of the nation’s most innovative, data-driven, and impactful marketing campaigns.

The SMARTIES™ Awards, widely recognized as the world’s leading honors for modern marketing, celebrate creativity that doesn’t just dazzle—it delivers results. This year’s finalists cut across sectors, from retail and finance to tech and entertainment, underscoring Thailand’s growing influence in the global marketing ecosystem.

Raising the Bar for Results-Driven Creativity

“This year’s submissions are proof that Thai marketers aren’t just playing it safe—they’re rewriting the rules,” said Rohit Dadwal, CEO of MMA Global APAC & Global Head of SMARTIES™ Worldwide. “These campaigns combine creativity with effectiveness, grounded in a real understanding of consumer behavior and bold experimentation.”

That dual focus—art and analytics—is what sets SMARTIES™ apart. In a landscape where marketing performance is increasingly tied to measurable ROI, these campaigns represent a blueprint for balancing creative storytelling with strategic precision.

Judged by Industry’s Sharpest Minds

The finalists were chosen through a rigorous, multi-stage judging process, led by a panel of Thailand’s top marketing leaders and brand experts. Their evaluation went beyond aesthetics, rewarding campaigns that demonstrated strategic clarity, seamless execution, and tangible business outcomes.

More Than an Award: Global Recognition

Winning a SMARTIES™ trophy isn’t just a night of applause—it’s global validation. Victorious campaigns automatically earn placement in the WARC 100 and RECMA’s global media agency rankings, alongside a feature in the MMA SMARTIES Business Impact Index. For brands, that means measurable credibility on an international stage.

The Countdown to Gala Night

Winners will be revealed on November 3, 2025, at the Hyatt Regency Bangkok Sukhumvit, during an evening that promises both celebration and connection. The gala offers a rare convergence of Thailand’s most influential marketing minds—an arena where competition turns into collaboration and recognition becomes inspiration.

As Thailand’s marketing landscape continues to evolve, the SMARTIES™ Awards stand as both a mirror and a milestone—reflecting where the industry is today and where it’s boldly headed next.

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Procurement teams no longer need to wade through dashboards or wait on analysts for critical insights. Precoro, the procurement centralization and automation platform, today launched its AI Assistant, a native AI chatbot designed to give finance, procurement, and accounts payable teams instant, actionable insights from purchasing data.

By consolidating all procurement data in one platform, the AI Assistant lets teams ask natural-language questions—like “Which suppliers are overdue?” or “What did we spend on marketing this quarter?”—and receive clear answers in seconds.

Real-Time Insights Without the Hassle

“We noticed that procurement teams were investing too much time in analyzing data,” said Andrew Zhyvolovych, CEO of Precoro. “So we built the AI Assistant to give every finance and procurement leader the power to act in real time, without waiting on reports or analysts.”

The AI Assistant requires no coding, SQL, or extra setup. Users simply open it in their Precoro account, apply filters like supplier or period, and type their questions. Sample queries include:

• “How much cash outflow should we expect in the next 30 days?”

• “If current spending trends continue, will we exceed the annual budget?”

• “Where do approvals get stuck most often?”

Answers are delivered instantly, with follow-up capabilities for deeper analysis. All queries are saved, enabling teams to track trends, refine reporting, and make more informed decisions.

Driving Smarter Procurement

The AI Assistant is part of Precoro’s broader mission to embed intelligence across procurement operations. By giving teams real-time visibility into spend patterns, supplier performance, and approval bottlenecks, the platform helps reduce risk, control costs, and optimize supplier relationships.

“The AI Assistant isn’t the latest step in Precoro’s journey to embed intelligence across procurement operations,” added Zyvolovych. “Our upcoming innovations will further support businesses in consolidating purchasing data, improving spend control, and enhancing supplier relationships.”

With this launch, Precoro positions itself at the forefront of AI-powered procurement, giving organizations a faster, smarter way to manage purchasing operations while keeping teams aligned with business goals.

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Rumble (NASDAQ: RUM), the video-sharing platform and cloud services provider, is doubling down on AI with a new strategic partnership with Perplexity, the AI-powered answer engine. The collaboration is aimed at enhancing content discoverability, driving subscriptions, and introducing Perplexity’s AI browser, Comet, to Rumble’s audience.

Tackling Video Discoverability

In an era of exploding digital content, connecting viewers to the right video remains a core challenge for platforms like Rumble. By integrating Perplexity’s AI search technology, Rumble aims to make it easier for users to find content tailored to their interests, while helping creators reach new audiences.

“Every video platform faces the challenge of connecting viewers with content that matches their interests,” said Dmitry Shevelenko, Chief Business Officer at Perplexity. “Our search technology understands user intent and surfaces relevant results efficiently. We’re excited to bring these capabilities to Rumble’s platform.”

Subscription Bundle and Comet Browser

Beyond search, the partnership includes a subscription bundle combining Rumble Premium with Perplexity Pro, giving users enhanced access to both platforms. The collaboration also promotes Comet, Perplexity’s AI-powered browser that acts as a personal assistant, providing contextual assistance and intelligent search across the web.

“We are thrilled to partner with Perplexity as we dive deeper into the AI space across our customer base,” said Chris Pavlovski, founder and CEO of Rumble. “Perplexity’s AI technologies will drive substantial improvements to content discoverability on our platform, while introducing new opportunities for subscription engagement.”

AI-Enhanced Media Experiences

The integration of Perplexity’s AI search into Rumble.com will roll out gradually, alongside the launch of the subscription bundle and Comet promotion. The partnership reflects a broader trend in digital media: leveraging AI to improve user experience, connect audiences with relevant content, and create new monetization pathways.

As video libraries grow exponentially, AI-driven discovery and engagement tools like this are increasingly critical for platforms looking to retain users, empower creators, and stand out in a crowded marketplace.

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Enterprise AI just got a turnkey upgrade. Digital Realty (NYSE: DLR), a global leader in carrier-neutral data centers and interconnection solutions, has announced a strategic collaboration with Dell Technologies and DXC Technology aimed at helping organizations deploy AI at scale—securely, efficiently, and directly where their data lives.

The partnership combines Digital Realty’s PlatformDIGITAL® colocation and interconnection platform, Dell AI Factory infrastructure, and DXC’s end-to-end implementation and operational expertise to provide enterprises with a complete AI-ready environment.

A Blueprint for Private AI at Scale

The integrated solution allows companies to deploy AI infrastructure closer to their data, minimizing latency and operational complexity while maintaining security and hybrid cloud flexibility. Key offerings include:

• Dell AI Factory on PlatformDIGITAL®: Secure, scalable environments for private AI deployment, combining Dell’s AI hardware and networking with Digital Realty’s high-density colocation.

• Validated AI Use Cases: Pre-built, enterprise-ready examples that accelerate AI adoption and deliver measurable business outcomes.

• End-to-End Integration: DXC handles planning, implementation, and ongoing operationalization, offering a full deployment toolkit to simplify AI infrastructure projects.

• Expert-Led Enablement: DXC provides training, frameworks, and transformation services to ensure teams can operationalize AI effectively.

“AI success requires more than infrastructure; it demands the right people, processes, and technology,” said Holland Barry, Global Field CTO at DXC Technology. “Together with Dell’s validated designs and Digital Realty’s infrastructure, DXC helps enterprises turn AI ambition into tangible business outcomes—faster and with greater impact.”

From Concept to Production, Faster

With this collaboration, companies can rapidly configure and scale repeatable AI architectures hosted in Digital Realty’s PlatformDIGITAL® data centers, powered by Dell and operationalized by DXC. The approach combines high-density colocation, validated designs, and integrated interconnection via Digital Realty’s ServiceFabric®, helping enterprises reduce deployment friction while maintaining secure proximity to their hybrid IT environments.

“AI is transforming how organizations operate and innovate, but realizing its full potential requires infrastructure, strategy, and operational expertise to work seamlessly together,” said Colin McLean, Chief Revenue Officer, Digital Realty. “Our collaboration with Dell and DXC helps customers solve real problems, move faster, and scale AI initiatives more securely—bringing actionable intelligence directly to their data and operations.”

Industry Perspective

“The collaboration between Digital Realty, Dell, and DXC highlights how strategic ecosystem alliances can drive faster adoption of AI-enabled, data-centric hybrid IT infrastructure,” said Courtney Munroe, Research VP at IDC. “By merging global infrastructure with practical solutions, real-world use cases, and deep technical expertise, this partnership enables enterprises to simplify operations, accelerate deployment, and unlock the full potential of their data as a strategic asset.”

As AI adoption accelerates, such multi-vendor, end-to-end approaches may become the new standard for enterprises looking to balance speed, scale, and operational reliability while deploying AI initiatives.

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Marketers often drown in data—but now BlueOcean aims to turn that flood into a fast-flowing river of insights. The company today announced a marketing-specific, agentic AI platform designed to deliver contextual, actionable intelligence for brand leaders, from the C-suite to on-the-ground practitioners.

Early adopters, including AWS, Cisco, Databricks, Intel, Microsoft, Roche, and SAP, report up to a 97% improvement in operational efficiency, freeing teams to focus on strategy and creativity rather than manual reporting.

Built by Marketers, for Marketers

The platform combines five years of proprietary data drawn from over 3,000 sources, including Nielsen, Shopify, and Yelp!, with purpose-built AI agents. The goal: deliver clarity where generic AI tools often fall short.

BlueOcean’s Spark™ engine enables marketers to instantly answer strategic questions like:

• How did ad spend last quarter impact brand awareness relative to competitors?

• What tactics are competitors using to drive growth?

• When and why did my brand experience reputation dips last year?

Results are presented in enterprise-ready dashboards, including the BlueScore™, a cumulative measure of five brand reputation factors: awareness, distinctiveness, consistency, impact, and trust. Teams can benchmark their performance against competitors in real time.

From Efficiency to Creativity

“When clients see the platform in action, they immediately recognize the impact: weeks of work reduced to minutes and insights ready to fuel creativity,” said Liza Nebel, Co-founder and COO of BlueOcean. “Our agents act like a team of creative strategists, always on and ready to go.”

The platform doesn’t just provide raw numbers—it delivers context-aware, actionable insights that marketers can act on immediately, whether for strategic planning or crafting social media content.

Beyond Generic AI

Unlike broad GPT-style solutions with a marketing wrapper, BlueOcean’s platform leverages a proprietary dataset spanning thousands of brands and market dynamics, continuously updated to provide a 360-degree view of brand performance. By integrating financial, SEO, news, and brand-owned content, it ensures near-instant, relevant insights that fuel bold, informed decisions.

“Only 13% of brands say their insights support bold creativity, and over half struggle to make timely decisions,” said Grant McDougall, Co-founder and CEO of BlueOcean. “We built a system that puts key insights at marketers’ fingertips and turns them into action—from high-level strategy to day-to-day content creation.”

As CMOs and marketing teams face increasing pressure to deliver measurable results across multiple channels, BlueOcean’s platform promises to bridge the gap between data and decision-making, offering a combination of speed, depth, and creative guidance that generic AI tools can’t match.

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