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INFIFORCE's Isabella Bai at CES 2026: China is Moving from Manufacturing to Defining Next-Gen Embodied Intelligence

LAS VEGAS, Jan. 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Isabella Bai, Founder and CEO of INFIFORCE, has pointed out the core bottleneck of AI industry at the "Not Quite Human: How Humanoids are Changing Work and Home Life" panel during CES 2026, stating that now the hardware is ready but the "humanoid forms" are missing the brain and intelligence, and Chinese tech companies are transitioning from "manufacturing" to "cognitive definition" in the AI era. Isabella Bai at CES 2026 INFIFORCE has showcased its proprietary "Causal World Model" and "Hyper-VLA (Vision-Language-Action) Foundation Model" at CES 2026, which tackles the challenges of giving robots the intelligent brain by establishing a complete closed loop of "Perception-Cognition-Decision-Execution," breaking the boundaries between the virtual and the real to empower robots with a "Super Brain" and the true ability to understand the world, engage in continuous learning, and act autonomously. This strategy of deploying one unified "Brain" into diverse bodies has secured the company CNY500 million (USD71.55 million) worth of commercial orders across automotive and healthcare sectors. "At CES, we see incredible mechanical engineering, but a robot without a causal understanding of the world is just a sophisticated puppet," said Isabella Bai, Founder and CEO of INFIFORCE. "Our 'Hyper-VLA' architecture gives robots the ability to think before they act. By separating the evolution of the 'Brain' from the 'Body,' we have enabled our FORCE and AstroDroid robots to handle complex tasks today, not ten years from now. The CNY500 million in orders we hold is proof that the market craves intelligence, not just novelty." The "Causal World Model" allows robots to predict outcomes and understand physical laws, a missing link to solving the "hallucination" and safety issues in the current AI robotics development. At CES 2026, INFIFORCE also showcased its product matrix: AstroDroid: a general-purpose humanoid robot series powered by Jetson AGX Orin for robust computational performance and fully integrated with the Hyper-VLA. It not only possesses dexterous upper limbs comparable to humans but also excels in efficient mobile operational capabilities. The flagship model AD-01 stands 170cm tall with 43 degrees of freedom, and the series is expanding to cover more sizes and models to meet needs for various general application scenarios. FORCE: fully autonomous mobile charging robot, that introduces innovative active charging paradigm of "robot finds vehicle," revolutionizing the traditional "user finds charger" model. It's equipped with L4-level autonomous driving and multi-robot collaborative scheduling capabilities and is already deployed at scale by leading enterprises such as Sinopec, Wanda, and Intime. Hyper-Components: core execution unit and perception module for embodied intelligence, features HyperArm, the lightweight high-degree-of-freedom bionic arm. INFIFORCE's self-developed core components ensure high-precision execution of "brain" commands in the physical world, achieving ultimate performance with integrated hardware and software. Founded in 2023, INFIFORCE is a leading AI-driven innovation enterprise dedicated to Embodied AI. Headquartered in Hangzhou with R&D centers in Shenzhen and Beijing, the company brings together executives from Global 500 firms and a top-tier scientific team, with over 75 percent holding master's or PhD degrees. As of now, INFIFORCE has accumulated more than 35 invention and utility model patents, along with 20 software copyrights. Additionally, over 30 core technology patents are currently under application, with planned patent exceeding 100 in the future. "The biggest barrier we need to break is Data, not internet text, but real-world physical data. At INFIFORCE, we built a Data-Model-Body-Scenario Growth Flywheel, with more Scenarios give us more data, which makes the Model smarter, and that then creates better Data. We have the Brain, we have the Scenes, so we can break the barrier," noted Isabella Bai. "Robots handle the Logic. We handle the Magic." For more information, please visit www.elu-ai.com and follow INFIFORCE on social media.

2026-01-09

Kia Unveils EV2 at Brussels Motor Show

The Kia EV2 – the brand's sixth dedicated electric model – debuts at the 2026 Brussels Motor Show Compact B-SUV designed to support diverse modern lifestyles, delivering class-above interior space and an emotionally engaging electric driving experience Up to 448 km driving range, EV Route Planner, Plug & Charge and bidirectional V2L EV3 GT, EV4 Hatchback GT and EV5 GT also revealed, expanding Kia's electric performance portfolio BRUSSELS and SEOUL, South Korea, Jan. 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Kia Corporation today unveiled the EV2 at the 2026 Brussels Motor Show, marking the global premiere of a compact electric SUV designed to make electric mobility more emotional, intuitive and accessible. The Kia EV2 "With the Kia EV2, we are expanding the reach of Kia's electric mobility to customers who want a compact car that still feels spacious, capable and emotionally rewarding. EV2 reflects our commitment to practical innovation — bringing advanced EV technology, thoughtful design and everyday usability into a model created for the way people live and move in cities around the world." — Ho Sung Song, President and CEO of Kia Alongside the EV2, Kia also revealed the EV2 GT Line and introduced the latest electric GT models — EV3 GT, EV4 Hatchback GT and EV5 GT — underscoring the brand's commitment to both accessible electrification and engaging performance. EV2: A New Emotional Gateway to Electric Mobility The EV2 plays a strategic role within Kia's expanding electric vehicle (EV) portfolio. As the most compact electric SUV in the lineup, it is designed as a gateway model for first-time EV drivers and new Kia buyers, while remaining versatile enough to serve as a primary household vehicle — easy to live with, yet emotionally rewarding. Kia's new compact SUV delivers an experience beyond its class thanks to: A calm, welcoming cabin atmosphere Class-above interior space and flexibility Easy, confidence-inspiring urban driving dynamics Production and Launch Timing Production of the EV2 will begin in the first quarter of 2026 with the standard-range model, followed by long-range and GT Line variants throughout the year. Market launch timings will be announced closer to the start of sales. The EV3 GT, EV4 Hatchback GT and EV5 GT are scheduled to enter production in the second half of 2026. For more information, visit the Kia Global Media Center for more.

2026-01-09

Pudu Robotics Launches PUDU T150 to Broaden Access to Light-Payload Industrial Automation

SHENZHEN, China, Jan. 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Pudu Robotics, a global leader in service robotics, today announced the launch of PUDU T150, a Light-payload Industrial Delivery Robot designed for internal material delivery in manufacturing and warehouse environments. PUDU T150: Light-payload Industrial Delivery Robot Built for 150 kg payload applications, PUDU T150 emphasizes fast deployment, stable operation, and high cost efficiency. The new model is intended to lower the entry barrier to industrial automation for manufacturers and logistics operators, particularly in 3C electronics, plastic components, and small-item warehousing for FMCG, beauty, and fast fashion industries. PUDU T150 will be initially available in Mainland China and the Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan regions, and selected high-growth markets, including Vietnam, Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, South Korea, and Turkey. Addressing the Gap in Light-Load Industrial Logistics As manufacturing continues to evolve toward leaner and more flexible production models, internal logistics automation has become a growing priority. However, many small and mid-sized manufacturers still face significant challenges in adopting industrial robots due to high costs, complex deployment processes, and operational barriers. Building on its established industrial delivery robots, PUDU T300 and PUDU T600, Pudu Robotics developed PUDU T150 to address this unmet demand. The robot targets light-load, high-frequency transport scenarios where reliability, simplicity, and ease of use are critical, enabling more companies to deploy automation quickly and effectively. PUDU T150 is available in two configurations: a lifting version designed for automated integration and more advanced workflows; and a standard version optimized for cost-effective, point-to-point material delivery. Designed for Fast Deployment and Practical Use PUDU T150 is designed for rapid, practical deployment in real-world industrial environments. Unlike traditional AGV systems that rely on site modifications, markers, guide rails, and complex network or API integration—often requiring weeks or months before becoming operational—PUDU T150 works straight out of the box. No environmental changes are needed, and mapping can be completed within 10 minutes directly on the robot, with stable operation achieved in as little as one hour. The robot also supports multi-robot collaboration without local servers or complex network infrastructure, enabling faster rollout and easier scaling across facilities. Stable Navigation in Dynamic Environments PUDU T150 combines VSLAM-based visual localization with dual LiDAR sensors to deliver full 360-degree environmental perception. Powered by PUDU's proprietary algorithms, the system supports dynamic map updates and stable positioning, ensuring reliable, long-term navigation even in complex, changing industrial environments. This architecture enables consistent performance in facilities with moving obstacles, layout adjustments, and high traffic density. Aerospace-Grade Structural Design with One-Piece Integrated Chassis PUDU T150 is built with aerospace-grade, high-strength materials and features a one-piece integrated chassis, creating a rigid and durable structure for demanding industrial environments. This construction improves resistance to impact and deformation, allowing the robot to maintain stable performance during high-frequency, long-duration operations. With a service life of up to five years, PUDU T150 helps reduce maintenance frequency and lowers long-term costs associated with repairs and component replacement. Simple Operation for Frontline Workers PUDU T150 features intuitive, tablet-like operation that anyone can use without training. An onboard touchscreen running PUDU's self-developed software allows users to issue tasks, switch modes, and adjust parameters quickly and easily. In addition to on-device control, the robot supports remote operation, enabling users to dispatch and manage tasks without needing to walk to the robot. Integration options include remote call devices, PUDU Link, and open APIs, making PUDU T150 adaptable to different workflows and management systems. Industrial-Grade Safety and Continuous 24/7 Operation PUDU T150 complies with the ISO 3691-4 industrial safety standard, ensuring safe and reliable operation under long-term, high-frequency workloads. To support continuous logistics operations, the robot offers flexible power options, including wired charging, automatic recharging, and fast battery swapping, enabling near 24/7 operation and stable material flow. Expanding PUDU's Industrial Delivery Portfolio With the launch of the PUDU T150, Pudu Robotics further strengthens its industrial delivery portfolio, extending the T-series to cover payloads from 150 kg to 600 kg and offering greater flexibility across a wide range of industrial scenarios. Designed for fast deployment and streamlined integration, the PUDU T150 enables more manufacturers and logistics operators to adopt autonomous delivery solutions with ease, supporting broader adoption of automation across small and mid-sized operations and accelerating intelligent transformation in the industrial sector. About PUDU Pudu Robotics, a global leader in the service robotics sector, is dedicated to enhancing human productivity and living standards through innovative robot technology. With a focus on R&D, manufacturing, and sales of service robots, Pudu Robotics emphasizes three core technologies: mobility, manipulation, and artificial intelligence. Pudu Robotics has taken the lead in establishing a comprehensive range of specialized, semi-humanoid, and humanoid robotic products in the industry. Currently, PUDU offers four product lines: service delivery robots, commercial cleaning robots, industrial delivery robots and embodied intelligent robots, which are deployed across ten major industries, including food and beverage, retail, hospitality, healthcare, entertainment and sports, industrial facilities, education, and more. To date, Pudu Robotics has successfully shipped over 100,000 units to a variety of markets, with a presence in more than 1,000 cities across 80+ countries and regions worldwide. For more information on business developments and updates, follow PUDU on LinkedIn, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter and Instagram.

2026-01-09

Yuwell Medical Makes Its Debut at CES 2026: AI Expands the Boundaries of Health Management

LAS VEGAS, Jan. 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- From January 6 to 9, CES 2026, held in Las Vegas—brought together 4,112 leading enterprises from around the world. As a leading Chinese medical device company, Yuwell Medical made its debut at CES. Yuwell Medical Makes Its Debut at CES 2026: AI Expands the Boundaries of Health Management At the exhibition, Yuwell Medical showcased a comprehensive product portfolio covering respiratory health, chronic disease management, first aid, and smart wearables. Respiratory products such as the Pocket S portable breathcare device, SP-6Pro portable oxygen concentrator emphasize mobility in medical use scenarios. Meanwhile, the YE699 fully automatic electronic blood pressure monitor are dedicated to making chronic disease management more precise and intelligent. Making its first public appearance, the Yuwell R3 Health Ring became one of the highlights of the booth. Crafted from titanium alloy and medical-grade resin, it features an ultra-lightweight design with a skin-friendly finish for all-day comfort. The ring enables continuous monitoring of multi-dimensional vital signs, including sleep, heart rate, blood oxygen levels, and physical activity. Powered by AI-driven health insights and abnormal condition alerts, it also delivers an impressive seven-day battery life under regular use. Yuwell has partnered with several professional medical institutions to combine its sensor technologies—developed over more than 20 years of experience in medical-grade monitoring of blood oxygen, heart rate, and sleep—with proprietary AI algorithms. This effort addresses the long-standing challenge in wearable technology of balancing data accuracy, wearing comfort, and actionable health insights. Yuwell Medical's participation at CES reflects its clear vision for the evolution of AI-driven health devices. Artificial intelligence is transforming medical monitoring tools from simple "data recorders" into intelligent health stewards. This transformation is unfolding across four key dimensions: first, achieving medical-grade precision by upgrading devices from providing reference data to delivering reliable health analysis and insights; second, enhancing invisibility by seamlessly integrating health monitoring into daily life through ultra-thin and lightweight wearable designs; third, enabling predictiveness by shifting from retrospective data tracking to early risk warnings through AI modeling; and fourth, building a systematic ecosystem in which devices function as collaborative nodes connecting personal and family health management. Hua Hao, General Manager of Yuwell's AI Wearable Medical Business, stated: "Our product innovation is closely aligned with our core strategies of globalization, digitalization, and wearability. By integrating hardware, algorithms, and services, we are extending professional monitoring and evaluation—once limited to hospital settings—into everyday life, enabling a prevention-first, closed-loop health management approach."

2026-01-09

Daira Partners with Infinix, itel and Tecno to Expand Affordable Smartphone Access in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD, Jan. 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Mobile-first digital nano-lending platform Daira has entered into a strategic partnership with Infinix Pakistan, itel Pakistan and Tecno Mobile Pakistan to offer Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) installment plans for smartphone buyers across the country. Through this collaboration, consumers can purchase quality smartphones through flexible and responsible installment options, significantly lowering the upfront cost of device ownership. The initiative aims to make smartphone upgrades more accessible, particularly for users seeking affordable pathways to essential digital tools. The partnership comes at a critical moment in Pakistan's digital transformation. With nearly half of the country's mobile users still relying on feature phones, smartphone affordability remains a key barrier to broader digital participation. The initiative closely aligns with the Ministry of IT and Telecommunication Pakistan's vision for digital inclusion, including the government's "Smartphone on Installments" program, which seeks to accelerate smartphone adoption and narrow the digital divide. "We are proud to partner with leading smartphone brands Infinix Pakistan, itel Pakistan and Tecno Mobile Pakistan to offer BNPL installment plans to Pakistani users," said Sheikh Omer Nasim, CEO of Daira. "Daira's BNPL model directly supports the national agenda of digital inclusion by enabling wider access to connected devices, fostering greater participation in the digital economy, and empowering users to engage more fully with digital services." As one of the few SECP-licensed, digital-only non-bank financial companies (NBFCs) in Pakistan, Daira was launched by Pakistani fintech company Finleap, part of the global fintech group FinVolution (NYSE: FINV). The platform leverages global best practices and proven financial models to better serve Pakistan's financially underserved and excluded segments. Since its establishment in October 2024, Daira has gained strong market traction and user trust, surpassing 1.5 million registered users and disbursing over PKR 3 billion in cumulative loans as of January 2026. In June 2025, the company obtained a Buy Now, Pay Later license, enabling it to further expand into consumer financing.

2026-01-09

From Experiment to Community: iQIYI's Two AI Initiatives Spotlight the Human Core of Creation

BEIJING, Jan. 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- iQIYI, China's leading online entertainment platform, is redefining creative collaboration by integrating AI into the heart of content production. Over the past year, the company has continued to turn innovation into practice, launching two flagship initiatives, the "Beyond Tools, Toward Teammates" AI Short Film Creation Competition and the"Peter Pau × iQIYI AI Theater" Storytelling Lab. These initiatives have brought together more than 2,600 creators from over 30 countries and regions, aiming to connect, support, and uncover the creative voices shaping storytelling in the AI era. In July 2025, iQIYI launched the "Beyond Tools, Toward Teammates" AI Short Film Creation Competition in partnership with Google and ByteDance's Volcano Engine, showcasing how AI is reshaping creative expression in filmmaking. Two months later, iQIYI unveiled the "Peter Pau × iQIYI AI Theater" Storytelling Lab, led by Academy Award-winning Cinematographer and Director Mr. Peter Pau. The program cultivates professional filmmakers in AI-powered production, bridging artistic vision with emerging technologies. The selected works from the lab are expected to premiere on the iQIYI platform in Q1 2026. Through interviews with participating creators, iQIYI found that, despite the rapid and visible advances in AI over the past year, most creators arrived at the same conclusion: while AI is a powerful amplifier of imagination, it can never replace the unique spark of human creativity. Different Creators, One Shared Curiosity Youxue CHEN – First-prize Winner of"Beyond Tools, Toward Teammates" AI Short Film Creation Competition "For me, the value of AI isn't just about efficiency or lowering costs, it's making the impossible tangible," said CHEN, whose film "Happy Land" won first prize. Using AI, CHEN revisited a story he had once shelved for being "too hard to shoot", discovering new emotional depth through experimentation. "The real challenge wasn't showcasing AI's spectacle, but moving the audience. With this work, we found a reliable creative method and that's just the beginning. We stand at the threshold of a new era, where imagination knows no limits." Mario and Linda – Finalist of "Beyond Tools, Toward Teammates" AI Short Film Creation Competition The Indonesian husband-and-wife team behind "Grow" describes their project as a reflection on life's journey and resilience. Using AI, they combined emotional storytelling with artistic cinematography. For them, AI wasn't a replacement but an enabler: "It is a useful tool that helps us bring our creative ideas to life more easily, quickly, and efficiently. It has also empowered parents like us to create from home, surrounded by our children at play, bringing our stories and imagination into the captivating world of cinema." Liu ZHENG – Finalist of "Beyond Tools, Toward Teammates" AI Short Film Creation Competition "AI isn't a substitute, it's a superpower," said ZHENG, a professional producer. "I used to have vivid images in my mind that I couldn't bring to life on my own; now, AI has become my most direct translator, turning boundless imagination into reality. Seeing all those prompts evolve into a coherent story and watching the parallel world I envisioned come alive was an unparalleled sense of accomplishment. My goal for 2026 is to take on a new challenge as a producer and create a larger, more ambitious AI-powered film." Contact:iQIYI Press, press@qiyi.com

2026-01-09

AI-Driven Future Innovation Experience -- TCL Showcases Microsoft AI-Powered Smart Terminals at CES 2026

LAS VEGAS, Jan. 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- At CES 2026, TCL unveiled a range of smart terminal products featuring artificial intelligence technologies, spanning smart displays, mobile devices, wearables, and smart home appliances. TCL is actively integrating capabilities from multiple AI technology partners, including Microsoft, to accelerate AI innovation and multi-scenario applications, delivering more efficient and convenient experiences for users worldwide. Highlights Innovation Synergy TCL continues to optimize technology innovation and ecosystem integration, focusing on upgrading smart terminal experiences and creating a smarter lifestyle for global users. AI Scenario Enablement Advancing AI-driven applications such as speech recognition, real-time subtitles, cross-language translation, personalized recommendations, creative content assistants, and intelligent services. These capabilities have already been applied to smart TVs, smartphones, tablets, home appliances, smart glasses, robotics, automotive systems, and TCL's digital operations, and will continue to be refined in line with product development. TCL's Smart Screen Division and Microsoft Foundry including Azure Speech and Azure OpenAI in Foundry Models capabilities are expected to roll out progressively across different regions in 2026, with details subject to official announcements. Multimodal Interaction Upgrade Leveraging next-generation large models and multimodal technologies, TCL smart terminals enable natural interaction across voice, image, and video, delivering seamless cross-device experiences. For example, the TCL Note A1 NXTPAPER combines paper-like display technology with Microsoft AI-powered features such as speech recognition, real-time translation, and content generation. Users can create and communicate efficiently through handwriting, voice, and other input methods, experiencing an integrated "write, speak, and understand" workflow. Security and Compliance Assurance TCL places strong emphasis on data privacy and compliance. Its smart terminals incorporate Microsoft Copilot-enabled features and agent-based capabilities to enhance data security and global compliance, ensuring a trusted intelligent experience. Expanded Ecosystem Integration Building on Azure cloud and AI services, TCL is exploring broader ways to apply Microsoft Copilot, productivity tools, security features, and other ecosystem technologies with TCL's hardware innovations. These efforts aim to enrich cross-domain experiences across entertainment, office productivity, and multi-device connectivity. Executive Quotes TCL Industries Representative Benny Chen, Deputy General Manager, Pan Smart Screen BU, TCL Industries added: "We aim to use AI technologies to enhance everyday digital experiences, and we continue to explore practical ways to bring helpful innovation to users worldwide." Microsoft Representative Roan Kang, Asia Regional Azure Leader at Microsoft added: "We appreciate TCL's continued adoption of Microsoft cloud‑based AI capabilities. By making responsible use of these tools, partners like TCL can develop solutions that empower users in a variety of daily scenarios." Looking Ahead During CES, TCL showcased its latest AI applications in smart terminals. Moving forward, TCL will continue to explore the use of AI technologies across diverse scenarios, expanding the boundaries of smart terminal applications. The goal is to make AI an integral part of everyday life—an indispensable assistant for work, learning, and entertainment. More products and features will be announced through official channels, so stay tuned for TCL's next wave of smart living innovations. About TCL TCL is a leading consumer electronics brand and leader in the global television industry. TCL now operates in more than 160 markets around the world. The company specializes in the research, development, and manufacturing of consumer electronics products ranging from TVs, audio, home appliances, mobile devices, smart glasses, commercial displays, and more. Visit the TCL website at https://www.tcl.com.

2026-01-09

CNN's Innovate explores cutting-edge solutions that work with nature, not against it

HONG KONG, Jan. 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The world is changing fast, and emerging technologies are driving the transformation. Artificial intelligence, blockchain, and IoT (the Internet of Things) are just a few of the game-changing innovations that are shaping our lives and revolutionizing how we work, learn, live, and entertain ourselves. CNN's Innovate series tells the stories behind business ideas, technological developments, and entrepreneurial breakthroughs reshaping our world. Told through a compelling multiplatform approach, Innovate will engage audiences with stories of innovative thinkers from all walks of life who are shaping a better, smarter future for all. CNN's 'Innovate' Explores Cutting-Edge Solutions That Work with Nature, Not Against It In the upcoming episode of Innovate, CNN explores groundbreaking advancements that harness the power of natural processes to create sustainable solutions across various industries, from agriculture to construction and fashion. The program spotlights visionary companies and scientists who are revolutionizing how we interact with our planet. The show begins by delving into Amoéba, a French biotechnology company based in Chassieu, near Lyon. Scientists have discovered a unique strain of the Willaertia magna amoeba in the thermal waters of Aix-les-Bains, revealing natural anti-fungal properties. Building on this discovery, Amoéba has developed a natural, amoeba-based biocontrol solution; a fungicide that effectively protects crops from fungal diseases, particularly in wet weather, without relying on synthetic chemicals. This innovative approach is being tested and adopted by European farmers and vineyards, including prestigious producers like Château Léoville Barton in Bordeaux, offering a sustainable alternative to chemical and copper sprays amidst climate change challenges. Next, Innovate explores the versatile power of mushrooms. Ecovative has championed mycelium, the root structure of fungi, for nearly two decades. Their pioneering mushroom manufacturing process has been at the forefront of creating biodegradable products that replace plastics and carbon-intensive materials, from packaging and building components to edible options. Mycelium acts as a natural polymer, breaking down waste while building new, stronger, and lighter plant-based materials, truly embodying a circular ecosystem where "fungi grows for the good of all". MYCL Japan, a company in Komoro City, Nagano, leverages Ecovative's process to transform agro-forestry waste into beautifully useful mushroom products. MYCL Japan has developed a textile that mimics the texture and durability of leather, removing animals from the production process entirely. Building on Japan's rich tradition of leather tanning and setting international styles, their collaborations with designers and fashion companies are redefining how the world works with and wears leather. Over in South Africa, Noncrete is a Cape Town-based company pioneering safer, stronger, and more sustainable carbon-negative building systems. Founders Stephen Lamb and Andrew Lord are at the forefront of decarbonizing construction through biomass technology. Their core mission is to combat climate change, address the housing crisis, and reduce unemployment by developing robust, low-carbon building systems that actively sequester carbon within the built environment. Concrete, the most used substance in the world after water, is a major carbon emitter. Noncrete's innovative solutions, like the Indlovu Floor and Click Brick Roof, dramatically lower emissions and reduce construction waste, while also creating low-tech, gender-neutral work opportunities that help restore natural ecosystems. Finally, CNN visits a company on a mission to revolutionize agriculture, Oishii, a sustainable indoor farm near New York City. Oishii, known for developing the 'world's largest indoor vertical strawberry farm,' aims to take absolute control of the growing environment to increase the quality and sustainability of farm products. Founder Hiroki Kona explains their approach: "Soft rain, mild heat, warm light, and buzzing bees. We replicate the elements of a perfect day in Japan. You can taste it in every berry; a sweetness to remember." By integrating ancient Japanese farming techniques with AI and robotic technologies, Oishii cultivates perfectly ripe, delicious, pesticide-free strawberries year-round, bringing their produce to urban markets like New York's largest Whole Foods. Innovate trailers: https://bit.ly/3NhKbWG Innovate images: https://bit.ly/4pwo785 Airtimes for 30-minute special: Saturday, 10th January at 2:30pm and 7:30pm HKTSunday, 11th January at 11pm and 6:30am HKT - Ends - About CNN International CNN's portfolio of news and information services is available in seven different languages across all major TV, digital and mobile platforms, reaching more than 379 million households around the globe. CNN International is the number one international TV news channel according to all major media surveys across Europe, the Middle East and Africa, the Asia Pacific region, and Latin America and has a US presence that includes CNNgo. CNN Digital is a leading network for online news, mobile news and social media. CNN is at the forefront of digital innovation and continues to invest heavily in expanding its digital global footprint, with a suite of award-winning digital properties and a range of strategic content partnerships, commercialised through a strong data-driven understanding of audience behaviours. CNN has won multiple prestigious awards around the world for its journalism. Around 1,000 hours of long-form series, documentaries and specials are produced every year by CNNI's non-news programming division. CNN has 36 editorial offices and more than 1,100 affiliates worldwide through CNN Newsource. CNN International is a Warner Bros. Discovery company.

2026-01-09

Darjeeling Tops Agoda's List of Most Searched Domestic Destinations in North-East for Oct-Dec 2025

Cherrapunji, Pelling, and Kalimpong are also enjoying increased domestic interest SINGAPORE, Jan. 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Digital travel platform Agoda has revealed its latest insights into domestic travel interest to India's North-East. Darjeeling (West Bengal) emerging as the most searched destination in the region on Agoda for the period of October to December 2025. The picturesque hill station, Gangtok (Sikkim) in second, and Shillong (Meghalaya) in third, together form the top trio of destinations in the region, drawing travellers with their scenic beauty and unique cultural experiences. The data, based on accommodation searches made on Agoda by Indians between July and September 2025, underscores the appeal of these hill stations as quintessential retreats for domestic travelers in the holiday season. Following the top 3 closely are Guwahati (Assam) and Siliguri (West Bengal) in the fourth and fifth spot, respectively. Guwahati's lively city life and Siliguri's strategic location as a gateway to the region make them integral parts of many travel itineraries. To underline the growing popularity of India's North-East, smaller towns like Cherrapunji (Meghalaya), Pelling (Sikkim), and Kalimpong (West Bengal) are also drawing increased attention from domestic travelers. Cherrapunji offers lush landscapes and stunning waterfalls, Pelling provides breathtaking views of the Kanchenjunga range, and Kalimpong delights with vibrant flower markets and colonial architecture. These hidden gems are also enriching the North-East travel experience with their quaint offerings. Commenting on the trend, Gaurav Malik, Country Director for the Indian Subcontinent and Indian Ocean Islands at Agoda, said, "It's great to witness travellers embracing the diverse landscapes of India, in this case the North-East. The region's natural beauty and serenity captivate those seeking both popular and quaint experiences. In recent years, many accommodation providers, including hotels, hostels, and non-hotel accommodations like villas, serviced apartments, and homestays, have partnered with Agoda to capture the growing interest from domestic and inbound travelers alike. I would encourage any hotelier or other accommodation provider, big or small, that isn't listed on Agoda yet to take advantage of our easy 30-minute onboarding program to ensure they aren't missing out." With over 130,000 flight routes, more than 6 million holiday properties, and over 300,000 activities, Agoda offers flexible options and deals to help travelers discover destinations that suit their plans and preferences. Discover the best deals on Agoda's mobile app and visit Agoda.com to plan the perfect year-end trips.

2026-01-09

Chery gives Aussie families one last summer road trip with Chery Cherry Trails

SYDNEY, Jan. 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- With cherry season in full swing and families making the most of the summer school holidays, road trips and short getaways remain a popular way for Australians to travel together. Cherry season is the perfect excuse for a summer drive. Chery Cherry Trails highlights the best cherry regions across Australia, turning easy day trips and short getaways into foodie friendly road trips. Tapping into this seasonal moment, Chery has launched Chery Cherry Trails, a state-by-state guide to cherry-inspired road trips across Australia, designed to help families and food lovers turn simple day trips or overnight escapes into memorable summer adventures. Designed as relaxed, flexible journeys rather than long holidays, Chery Cherry Trails showcase the diversity of Australia's cherry-growing regions and the local experiences that surround them. From pick your own orchards and farm gate stalls to wineries, bakeries and regional towns, each trail celebrates the simple pleasure of getting out on the road and exploring closer to home. Chery is one of Australia's fastest-growing car brands, with a range of vehicles designed to suit Aussie roadtrips and family travel. Built for long distances and varied conditions, Chery vehicles combine comfort, space and advanced hybrid technology to make road trips and short getaways easy and enjoyable. Cherry season in Australia stretches through to late summer, with different regions producing fruit at different times depending on climate and elevation. As a result, many orchards continue to offer fresh cherries, farm gate sales and seasonal produce experiences beyond peak harvest, making these trails just as appealing for food lovers as for hands-on pickers. For those who love the taste of cherries but prefer not to pick their own, the trails are designed to be just as rewarding. Many stops focus on tasting, buying and enjoying cherries alongside other local produce, turning each journey into a foodie led road trip rather than a single activity. Chery Cherry Trails by state include: New South Wales: A scenic loop from Sydney through the Southern Tablelands and Central West, taking in regions such as Young, Mudgee and Orange. These areas are known for family-run orchards, cellar doors and village markets, with routes that move through varied landscapes and historic country towns Victoria: A one-to-two-day escape from Melbourne into the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges, where orchards sit alongside wineries, cafés and local producers. The mix of elevations means cherry experiences and fresh produce are available across much of the summer period Queensland: A short break from Brisbane to the Granite Belt around Stanthorpe, a cooler climate region where small-scale growers combine cherries with broader farm gate and market experiences. The trail pairs food stops with national park scenery and relaxed regional towns South Australia: A one-to-two-day itinerary through the Adelaide Hills and surrounding regions, where cherries are grown across a range of microclimates. The trail blends orchard visits with scenic drives, historic villages and wine regions, making it ideal for a weekend escape Western Australia: A longer southwest road trip from Perth through orchard country, including Donnybrook, Manjimup and Pemberton. These routes pass through forest landscapes and agricultural regions where cherries are part of a broader local produce offering Tasmania: A two-to-three-day journey from Hobart through the Coal River Valley and into the north of the state, taking in historic towns, family-run orchards and cool climate growing regions. Tasmania's later season means cherry-related experiences continue well into the summer months While cherry season runs through summer, orchard opening days and times vary, so travellers are encouraged to check ahead before setting off. For Chery, the initiative is about celebrating everyday Australian moments, from spontaneous road trips to discovering regional towns and local producers and encouraging people to enjoy the journey as much as the destination. ABOUT CHERY Chery Australia is a leading automotive brand recognised globally for its commitment to innovation, style, and performance. With a rich history spanning over two decades, Chery has established itself as a pioneer in the industry. Known for producing technologically advanced and visually striking vehicles, Chery offers a diverse range of models that cater to different lifestyles and preferences. Each Chery vehicle embodies the brand's passion for pushing boundaries and redefining the driving experience. For more details on Chery visit www.cherymotor.com.au or Instagram @cheryaustralia

2026-01-09