SpeechCode

Accessible Information. The world is full of information, however, 96% of it is presented in written format only. Documents, websites, signage, product information, instructions, larning materials, contracts, etc. In order to consume any printed information, individuals must have the ability to read and understand content. However, only 50% of all people in the western world can do this. The other 50% have restricted access to information, due to illiteracy, language deficits, age, and visual impairments. Population in EU: •	25% aged over 65 •	13% functional illiterates •	10% with language deficits •	3% blind or visually impaired Furthermore, according to the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, all individuals should have access to information on all products, services and facilities. The respective EU Directive is aiming at multi-sensory channels for information provision. Yet, only 4% of all information is currently compliant with these regulations. To solve this problem for all people, our solution focused on adding audio format to any written information - accessible, offline and free of charge. In 2012 we started experimental development and came up with a coloured data matrix code, that contains all the information in the code itself - the Speech Code. These codes can easily be printed anywhere for users to scan with the free apps for Android and iOS. Information access is possible any time and anywhere, regardless of internet or phone connectivity. For added personalization, users can adjust the rate of speech, font size, contrast, and language in the app. In 2014 and 2015 we moved to market research and pilot projects. Last year, we acquired 30 paid proof of concept customers in the tourism sector. This industry is an ideal test-environment due to a positive image, international users, access to user feedback, and easy production processes. All customers have extended their annual licenses due to positive feedback from their users. To enable audible information directly on pharmaceutical products, fast moving consumer goods or any other consumer product, we additionally developed the talking Product Label in 2016: These codes read out the information about the product, its ingredients, expiration dates and the correct usage and can warn about individual allergenes. The product labels have the capability to present a full spectrum information in multiple languages in a 2.0x2.0cm square, making it a very cost effective method of information production – suitable for mass production. Less space also means less paper, which makes Speech Code an eco-friendly technology. The text-to-speech technology supports over 40 languages, making our technology globally scalable. As data transmission works offline, data integrity, immutability of content and data privacy of the consumers can be guaranteed. The fields of application to support product safety and social inclusion, are numerous. Some potential uses include: •	Package Leaflets and Product Information •	Citizen and Patient Information •	Instructions and Safety Information •	Signage in Buildings and on Streets •	Public Transportation •	Tourist Points of Interest •	Websites, Documents and Collateral Materials We currently establish a distribution partner network with so far 9 partners for tourism in Austria, Germany, Switzerland, France, Bulgaria, Israel and the US. Also we have entered a cooperation with a packaging company for pharmaceutical products to bring SpeechCode into this market and to add an anti-counterfeiting solution into our Speech Codes. While many organisations dealing with accessibility and inclusion, such as the Zero Project Foundation, ENAT/Pantou, the Austrian Federal Health and Food Safety Agency as well as associations of the blind support our technology, the major challenge for us is to create global awareness with the big pharmaceutical and FMCG brands. Local and societal impact /USP: There are a number of people who can benefit from our SpeechCode technology, including the elderly, the blind and visually impaired, individuals with cognitive disabilities and limited literacy, people with allergies, and even tourists in foreign countries. Especially in areas, where connectivity is limited, unreliable or expensive, SpeechCode can be used everywhere at no cost. To assure that no budget constraints will prohibit the use of SpeechCode by NGOs, associations of people with disabities or individuals, we are waiving our license fees for such groups, support them with user manuals, etc., so they can produce and distribute Speech Codes at no costs at all. Enabling information access for all above individuals supports the following UN SDGs: SDG 3 - GOOD HEALTH & WELL-BEING - audible information on health issues and medicines SDG 4 - QUALITY EDUCATION - an easy and economic way to provide education material for visually impaired children SDG 11 - SUSTAINABLE CITIES & COMMUNITIES - providing accessible citizen information SDG 12 & 13 - RESPONSIBLE CONSUMPTION & PRODUCTION/CLIMATE CHANGE - Speech Codes requires 40 times less space (=paper) than script. Just one Speech Codes at a central info point can bring written and audible information to the smartphones of hundreds of users and gets stored for later reference We are very proud that Dr. Daniela Bas, Director, Division for Social Policy and Development, UN-DESA, has given us positive feedback: ...It is always impressive to see how new technologies are improving the lives of visually and hearing impaired individuals. I will share these documents with our colleagues dealing with disability matters in the Division for Social Policy and Development and I look forward to our continued collaboration. USPs: •	printable 2D datamatrix code •	stickable NFC tags •	up to 40 minutes of offline speech output •	42+ languages •	small size (min. 2x2cm) •	offline scan needs neither network nor energy •	online DIY code generation (no voice recording) •	API available for industrial processes •	serialisation •	counterfeiting •	optional 4-8 PIN protection for closed user groups •	free app & offline scan for customers (data privacy) •	accessibility by patented ScanGuidance •	annual license fees for low unit costs •	immutability of content Target group for the product: Everyone with a smartphone.

SpeechCode is an Austrian Text-AND-Speech technology that converts information into a comprehensive data code. Its flagship product, the SpeechCode Generator, addresses consumer concerns about small font sizes and poor contrast on labels and packaging. Integrating SpeechCode into the standard label and packaging printing process provides a secure and sustainable method for improving accessibility to product information and user engagement. When scanned with the free SpeechCode app, the generated code provides information in text and audio formats without an internet connection. Packaging applications of the technology include the creation of Product Label Information 4.0, which provides intelligent talking labels for consumer products. The technology ensures that critical product details such as ingredients, quantities, and expiration dates are communicated to consumers while overcoming font size and contrast challenges. SpeechCode's impact extends beyond packaging, contributing to anti-counterfeiting features, accessible pharmaceutical package inserts, and as an audio guide in tourism.

Next-gen packaging solutions for enhanced product tracking, inspection solutions and freshness monitoring

Smart Packaging Tech

SpeechCode is an Austrian Text-AND-Speech technology that converts information into a comprehensive data code. Its flagship product, the SpeechCode Generator, addresses consumer concerns about small font sizes and poor contrast on labels and packaging. Integrating SpeechCode into the standard label and packaging printing process provides a secure and sustainable method for improving accessibility to product information and user engagement. When scanned with the free SpeechCode app, the generated code provides information in text and audio formats without an internet connection. Packaging applications of the technology include the creation of Product Label Information 4.0, which provides intelligent talking labels for consumer products. The technology ensures that critical product details such as ingredients, quantities, and expiration dates are communicated to consumers while overcoming font size and contrast challenges. SpeechCode's impact extends beyond packaging, contributing to anti-counterfeiting features, accessible pharmaceutical package inserts, and as an audio guide in tourism.According to the company, a single code could contain this data in up to 40 languages (March 2024).

Elementary Robotics is an AI-driven quality assurance platform for manufacturing that uses machine learning-based visual inspection to improve product quality and derive insights from real-time production quality data. Elementary Robotics's visual inspection platform comprehensively identifies and classifies defects, even those not explicitly programmed to be detected. The system leverages remote cameras coupled with Edge and cloud processing to enable manufacturers to remotely access inspection stations, securely manage and update them from anywhere, and collect data from multiple connected devices to understand defect trends and root causes. The platform's capabilities include automating traceability scans and incorporating AI, machine vision, and automation. The system also provides data, insight into operational efficiency, and ongoing support after deployment.Key customers and partnerships&nbsp;As of February 2024, its customers included leading manufacturers like Milwaukee, Yamaha, Toyota, and Rapid Robotics.&nbsp;Funding and financials&nbsp;In December 2021, the company raised USD 30 million in a Series B funding round led by Tiger Global to support customer demand and scale the company's solution globally with existing and new customers.

Elementary Robotics

Based in Israel, Velox specializes in industrial-grade Direct-to-Shape (DTS) digital decoration solutions for the mass production of cylindrical containers. The company's proprietary DTS inkjet technology utilizes adaptive deposition architecture (ADA) and variable viscosity ink (VVI) for digital printing. Its solutions include the Velox IDS Series, a line of high-speed, industrial-grade digital decorators tailored for a variety of market segments, including plastic tubes, beverage cans, and aerosol cans. In addition, Velox offers professional services to help customers maximize the benefits of their digital solution, including technical support, production monitoring, color services, and collaboration opportunities. Features of Velox solutions include creating photo-realistic images, unlimited color matching, tactile embellishment, gloss and matte embellishment, and operational agility.The company reportedly matches more than 95% of the Pantone Plus color book by handling 14 colors simultaneously. It also stated that the Velox IDS-NC series can decorate beverage cans at speeds of up to 500 containers per minute, while the Velox IDS-PT series can decorate plastic tubes at speeds of up to 250 containers per minute.Funding and financialsIn November 2018, the company raised USD 32 million in a funding round co-led by JAL Ventures and O.R.T. Technologies to accelerate Velox's go-to-market strategy, strengthen its technology leadership, and further innovate its industrial direct-to-shape digital printing solutions for the container industry.

Velox

Vytal, a German reusable packaging solutions provider, offers a packaging system for the food and beverage industry. Through the Vytal app, customers can order takeaway items in reusable containers that can be borrowed for free using QR codes. The process involves downloading the app, placing an order, borrowing the reusable containers, and returning them within 14 days. The company offers a variety of containers for all types of foods and beverages, including leak-proof and microwaveable options. It also offers a B2B solution, Vytal Events, which provides a comprehensive solution for event organizers, serving a range of events from concerts and festivals to corporate events. With a hybrid system, event organizers can customize their orders, receive direct delivery, and use a convenient rental process. Unique features include external flushing, direct delivery, and the flexibility of deposit and non-deposit options.Key customers and partnershipsAs of February 2024, Vytal served 330,000+ users and more than 6,500 partners across Europe, including restaurants and cafés such as KFC, Domino's, Wolt, and Uber Eats. Customers for its B2B solutions include <a href="https://www.handelsblatt.com/">Handelsblatt</a>, DER SPIEGEL, Lebensmittel Zeitung, and Bayerischer Rundfunk.In May 2023, Vytal partnered with SwapBox, a reusable packaging service provider, to improve sustainable food packaging solutions for the HORECA (hotel, restaurant, and café) industry in the Benelux region. In November 2023, the company entered the Budapest market in partnership with Wolt, a Finnish online food delivery platform, to provide an eco-friendly alternative for food delivery and address environmental concerns associated with single-use packaging.Funding and financialsIn March 2022, the company raised USD 10 million in a Series A funding round led by Grazia Equity to support its packaging-as-a-service model, offering premium leak-proof trays for take-out and delivery food on a pay-per-fill basis.

VYTAL

Ennoventure is an Indo-US SaaS company specializing in product tracking and counterfeit detection for brand protection and consumer experience enhancement. Its patented invisible cryptographic signatures, powered by AI and cryptography, enable brands to improve the security of their packaging without requiring any changes to the production process, special inks, or machinery. The process involves sharing artwork with Ennoventure, which then adds an invisible signature. The printed packaging can be authenticated using a smartphone, allowing quick verification.As of March 2024, the company claimed to be able to create invisible signatures for packaging in 48 hours.Key customers and partnershipsAs of February 2024, the company stated that its technology has been applied to over 10 billion packages globally.Funding and financialsIn July 2021, the company raised USD 5 million in a Series A funding round led by Fenice Investment Group to support team expansion and the company's strategic growth initiatives in Europe and the US.

Ennoventure

ScanTrust is a Switzerland-based package traceability and analytics platform that provides companies with comprehensive tools to combat counterfeiting and compliance and optimize inventory and distribution processes. Its core technology includes creating secure QR codes and landing pages without programming knowledge and facilitating customer engagement and compliance with e-labels and digital product passports (DPP). It also reportedly works with a customer's existing label printing processes and QR codes (which can be upgraded with security features). Key products and services include cost-effective anti-counterfeiting solutions that allow consumers to authenticate products using a smartphone without needing a special app. The platform also supports supply chain traceability, providing visibility into inventory and distribution processes through QR codes. Additional capabilities include authentication applications, QR code managers, EU wine-label compliance, enterprise QR codes, mobile landing page creators, and supply chain workflow applications.Key customers and partnershipsAs of February 2024, the company had more than 1 billion connected products, and its customers included Dupont, Melitta, NuSkin, Unilever, Abbott, ExxonMobil, Unilever, HP, Motul, and Zippo.In July 2021, the company partnered with ePac Flexible Packaging, a custom flexible packaging company, to offer secure and serialized QR codes printed on the packaging to provide an online gateway and connected packaging capabilities. In September 2023, Scantrust partnered with SCREEN Europe, a printing equipment provider, to combine SCREEN Europe's digital printing technology with ScanTrust's secure QR codes.Funding and financialsIn November 2017, the company raised USD 4.2 million in a Series A funding round led by SVC Ltd to expand the support and delivery of ScanTrust's supply chain projects with Global Fortune 1000 companies worldwide. It also aimed to develop new features, expand business intelligence capabilities, and fuel the company's growth into new verticals.

ScanTrust

Companies that offer computer vision systems to identify packaging errors and damages during production. Also includes companies that use 3D printing and AI-powered softwares to create packaging in all shapes and sizes.

Companies that provide solutions to improve package safety and security featuring traceability, anti-counterfeit and analytics solutions. Covers companies that  use technologies such as QR codes, radiofrequency (RF) and Near-Field Communication (NFC) tags.

Companies that sell or provide ‘as-a-service’ reusable packages  that can be used multiple times before recycling.

Packaging that can heat or chill contents when a user requires it, without external heat sources or power - typically using a chemical reaction

Platforms that connect providers of packaging solutions with customers online.

Uses AI to optimize package designs and AI-based vision systems to identify packaging errors

Offers packaging-as-a-service to promote reusing

Uses IoT to offer connected packaging solutions

Connected packaging that uses sensors, NF, and RFID tags

Offers personalized packaging solutions through direct-to-shape printing and AI-based designs

SpeechCode

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