<div>
 <ul>
 <li>
 
 Splitit, a BNPL service provider, extended its partnership with Google to launch Splitit&rsquo;s installment payments to the Google Store in the US, Canada, and Australia in early 2023.&nbsp;
 
 </li>
 <li>
 
 The companies first teamed up in January 2021 to offer installment solutions to the Google Store in Japan. The expanded deal has an initial term of one year and will be renewed automatically for successive periods of one year.&nbsp;
 
 </li>
 <li>
 
 Analyst QuickTake
 : The renewal and expansion of the deal is a major win for Splitit as it attempts to expand its market share. In August, it partnered with cloud-based rental payment platform letus (formerly RentMoola) to expand to the property rental market. Moreover, it raised AUD 10.5 million (~USD 7.25 million) in September 2022 to accelerate its roadmap, which includes scaling its white-label &ldquo;Installments-as-a-Service&rdquo;&rsquo; platform to new verticals including education.
 
 </li>
 </ul>
 
 
</div>

<div>
 
 <a href="https://spt.live.irmau.com/site/pdf/c6a4defe-bf67-4566-9bd9-21f9dc187908/Google-expands-agreement-with-Splitit.pdf?utm_medium=email&_hsmi=236705909&_hsenc=p2ANqtz--fyuynrEL0z0fjg-L6XxSqeQz83FUgZhVdBCU8yFmWU9oD-ayJPY2BBjf5gCgWnHDIawhkzFQhlbCoPYnBlu5iJnDIspLTUdIYW0LiijtMGDFq4RY&utm_content=236705909&utm_source=hs_email">
 Press release
 </a>
 
 
 <a href="https://www.pymnts.com/bnpl/2022/google-splitit-team-on-installments/">
 PYMNTS.com
 </a>
 
 
 <a href="https://thepaypers.com/online-payments/google-splitit-to-offer-splitit-instalments-in-additional-markets--1259371">
 The Paypers
 </a>
 
</div>

Buy Now, Pay Later

Splitit extends partnership with Google

More important now than ever, telehealth will long outlast the pandemic that drove its growth.

Telehealth

<div>

 Transcarent, a virtual care provider, has secured USD 126 million in a Series D financing round. General Catalyst and 7wireVentures have co-led the investment, with contributions from both new and existing investors. The recent round brings Transcarent's total funding to USD 450 million and boosts its valuation to USD 2.2 billion.
 
 The company intends to allocate the freshly raised capital towards the further development of its AI capabilities and the support of strategic growth and commercial expansion.
 
</div>

Transcarent raises USD 126 million in Series D funding to enhance AI capabilities and fuel growth

Empowering efficiency, visibility and collaboration throughout supply networks

Supply Chain Tech

ANALYST_QUICK_TAKE

PROMINENT_CATEGORY

ThroughPut Inc. has introduced new artificial intelligence (AI) based features for inventory management to aid businesses in managing their working capital more effectively. The aim is to enhance profitability by managing safety stock and facilitating omnichannel order fulfillment. 

Key features include optimal spend recommendations, replenishment strategies, with a significant emphasis on cost reduction and eliminating waste. These features offer insights into optimal working capital spend, enable dynamic optimization of working capital, and reveal any expensive and wasteful activities in the supply chain. 

The company asserts that these new features will provide businesses enhanced visibility and control over their inventory across diverse locations and systems. This, in turn, will enable businesses to decrease excessive stock and carrying costs while accelerating inventory turnover. Analyst QuickTake: 
 ThroughPut Inc. has been leveraging AI to optimize supply chain operations across industries. In October 2023, the company <a href="https: 
//sp-edge.com/updates/24111"> launched </a> a new solution named "ThroughPut.AI Supply Chain Decision Intelligence" to offer comprehensive supply chain visibility and possible solutions for disruptions and risks. Also, in July 2023, the company <a href="https: 
//sp-edge.com/updates/23771"> launched </a> AI-driven customer segmentation capabilities for supply chains to enhance the efficiency and efficacy of businesses' planning, management, and fulfillment processes. The latest launch expands its capabilities, elevating it toward an end-to-end supply chain planning solutions provider.

ThroughPut Inc. launches new AI capabilities for inventory management

Technology to explore opportunities beyond Earth

Space Travel and Exploration Tech

<div>
 
 SpaceX launched Maxar-1, which are the initial two high-resolution Earth observation satellites of Maxar Intelligence, from California’s Vandenberg Space Force Base through the Falcon 9 rocket.
 These satellites are part of Maxar's WorldView Legion fleet, which is designed for highly precise Earth observation. The said fleet is equipped with advanced cameras that can take pictures of even tiny objects and features on the Earth’s surface, boasting about 30 cm resolution.
 With the addition of the first two satellites, it is anticipated that Maxar's ability to gather high-resolution imagery and map Earth will triple. This would further boost its capacity to offer accurate and extensive imaging and mapping services.
 
</div>

SpaceX launches Maxar's first two Earth observation satellites

A new wave of meat, fish, and poultry alternatives are driving this hyper-growth industry into the mainstream.

Plant-based Meat

<div>
 Vancouver's B2B mycoprotein producer, Maia Farms, has garnered CAD 2.3 million (~USD 1.7 million) in a pre-seed funding round. This funding was jointly led by Joyful Ventures, PIC Investing Group, and Koan Capital. In addition to this, the company has managed to secure grants amounting to over CAD 2 million (~USD 1.5 million) from various institutions.
 The newly acquired capital will be utilized by Maia Farms to support and magnify its R&amp;D efforts. The company also plans on extending its operations and expanding its market presence.
 Established in 2021, Maia Farms majors in the development of mycoprotein through the process of biomass fermentation and the use of advanced bioreactor technology. The company's lead product, CanPro, is a textured protein ingredient with a wide variety of applications such as alternative meats, protein bars, snacks, among others.
 
</div> Analyst QuickTake: 
 Mycoprotein is often used in alternative protein applications as it provides a more meat-like texture than other alternatives like soy or pea protein. Notable companies in this space include <a href="https: 
//sp-edge.com/companies/786294"> Mycorena </a> , <a href="https: 
//sp-edge.com/companies/2834068"> Nosh Biofoods </a> , <a href="https: 
//sp-edge.com/companies/502559"> ENOUGH </a> , <a href="https: 
//sp-edge.com/companies/1178873"> The Protein Brewery </a> , and <a href="https: 
//sp-edge.com/companies/721897"> The Better Meat Co </a> .

Maia Farms raises CAD 2.3 million in pre-seed funding to advance operations

Automation and robotics are finally creating solutions for the complexities of doorstep deliveries.

Last-mile Delivery Automation

INCUMBENTS_PRESENT

<div>
 Hyundai plans to invest nearly USD 1 billion in the Hyundai-Aptiv autonomous vehicle joint venture, Motional. This investment will provide the startup capital for continued operations. The specifics of the deal include Hyundai injecting USD 475 million directly into the joint venture and buying additional equity worth USD 448 million from its partner Aptiv. As a result, Hyundai will gain an 85% majority stake in Motional.
 Aptiv, which formerly held half the stakes in Motional, is diminishing its investment due to the expensive costs and extensive timeframe required to commercialize robotaxis.
 The completion of this deal is expected to occur by the third quarter of 2024, pending approval from regulatory bodies and customary closing conditions.
 
</div> Analyst QuickTake: 
 Motional, resulting from a <a href="https: 
//techcrunch.com/2019/09/23/aptiv-and-hyundai-form-new-joint-venture-focused-on-autonomous-driving/"> USD 4 billion collaboration </a> between Hyundai and Aptiv, is working on commercializing autonomous taxis by 2024. However, the funding situation for Motional became uncertain as Aptiv decided to cut stake and discontinue future funding <a href="https: 
//sp-edge.com/updates/26156"> in January 2024, </a> leaving Hyundai as the primary backer unless Motional attracted additional investors. We believe the new funds injected by Hyundai would help the company’s continued operations. Motional also secured a bridge loan to meet temporary financial needs <a href="https: 
//sp-edge.com/updates/27629"> in March 2024. </a> The broader robotaxi industry is marked by uncertainty and gradual progress toward commercial viability, with incumbents like Alphabet’s Waymo <a href="https: 
//sp-edge.com/updates/28523"> expanding its services </a> and others like GM’s Cruise <a href="https: 
//sp-edge.com/updates/28329"> recovering from setbacks. </a>

Motional receives USD 448 million from Hyundai; Hyundai to buy out stake from Aptiv for controlling 85% interest

Autonomous and connected technologies shaping the future of the auto industry

Auto Tech

<div>
 Hyundai is set to invest approximately USD 1 billion in Motional, a Hyundai-Aptiv autonomous vehicle joint venture. This investment will consist of a direct payment of USD 475 million and the purchase of additional equity worth USD 448 million from Aptiv. This will result in Hyundai owning 85% of Motional.
 Aptiv, which previously held 50% of the shares in Motional, will reduce its investment due to the high costs and extended time needed to commercialize robotaxis.
 The transaction is expected to be finalized by the third quarter of 2024, pending regular regulatory approvals and closing conditions.
</div> Analyst QuickTake: 
 Motional, resulting from a <a href="https: 
//techcrunch.com/2019/09/23/aptiv-and-hyundai-form-new-joint-venture-focused-on-autonomous-driving/"> USD 4 billion collaboration </a> between Hyundai and Aptiv, is working on commercializing autonomous taxis by 2024. However, the funding situation for Motional became uncertain as Aptiv decided to cut stake and discontinue future funding <a href="https: 
//sp-edge.com/updates/26156"> in January 2024, </a> leaving Hyundai as the primary backer unless Motional attracted additional investors. We believe the new funds injected by Hyundai would help the company’s continued operations. Motional also secured a bridge loan to meet temporary financial needs <a href="https: 
//sp-edge.com/updates/27629"> in March 2024. </a> The broader robotaxi industry is marked by uncertainty and gradual progress toward commercial viability, with incumbents like Alphabet’s Waymo <a href="https: 
//sp-edge.com/updates/28523"> expanding its services </a> and others like GM’s Cruise <a href="https: 
//sp-edge.com/updates/28329"> recovering from setbacks. </a>

Travel Tech

<div>
 
 Airbnb is launching new updates for group booking and a new category named "Icons." The Icons category offers curated experiences by notable figures in various fields and can be accessed through the app. It will present unique properties such as the X-Men mansion and Prince’s Purple Rain House. However, availability will be limited, and users must apply to book these experiences.&nbsp;

 The update also introduces a feature that aids group bookings, allowing users to make shared wishlists, append properties to the lists, comment on them and vote. A new message tab facilitates communication between travellers and the host.&nbsp;

 Furthermore, Airbnb is incorporating AI to provide hosts with automatic response capabilities. Customer support is streamlined using AI by routing customers to the appropriate agents or providing AI-generated responses for certain inquiries. An earnings dashboard is also being released for hosts as part of the automation efforts.&nbsp;

 </div>

Airbnb introduces group booking features and new 'Icons' experience category

Metaverse Experience Platforms

<div>
 Roblox has unveiled its immersive video ad format to all advertisers, allowing them to publish video ads without creating bulky experiences. Furthermore, the company has forged partnerships with Integral Ad Science (IAS) and Kantar for analytics and optimization services for their brand partners.
 This innovative video ad format can be accessed via the Ads Manager and plans are underway to make it available for programmatic media buying. Key features consist of genre targeting, brand suitability, an audience estimator, and the possibility of purchasing completed views in the future.
</div> Analyst QuickTake: 
 The availability of video ads on Roblox presents brands with a cost-effective alternative to developing virtual worlds on the platform, typically involving collaborating with a development studio to create the experience. The feature also further differentiates Roblox from Fortnite Creative, which is yet to introduce immersive video ads on its platform.&nbsp;

Roblox opens immersive video ad format to all advertisers; partners with IAS and Kartnar to optimize analytics

Technologies bringing about a new reality

Extended Reality

<div>
 Snapchat has introduced new Augmented Reality (AR) and GenAI tools designed for brands and advertisers, enhancing interactivity and efficiency in ad creation. Brands now have the capability to create custom Lenses using GenAI, by simply providing a text or an image prompt, which further provide realistic face effects. These newly created Lenses can then be employed as AR advertisements on Snapchat's platform. In addition, Snapchat has also unveiled AR Extensions, a feature that provides advertisers the option to incorporate filters and AR lenses into various Snapchat ad formats such as Spotlight Ads, Snap Ads, among others.
</div> Analyst QuickTake: 
 Snap has found implementing ML tools to its platform increasingly successful, noting that the number of ML and AI Lenses viewed by users <a href="https: 
//techcrunch.com/2024/04/25/snap-total-watch-time-on-tiktok-competitor-increased-125/"> increased </a> by more than 50% YoY in Q1 2024. The news also follows the launch of the company’s Lens Studio 5.0 Beta in <a href="https: 
//sp-edge.com/updates/23725"> November 2023 </a> , which introduced GenAI-backed AR content creation capabilities, among other improvements.

Snapchat introduces new AR and GenAI tools to create interactive advertising experiences

<div>
 Unity has introduced an upgraded game engine, named "6 Preview" that provides new features designed to simplify the creation of XR experiences.
 Key features encompass a built-in foveated rendering API that optimises the performance by lowering the resolution of the peripheral vision, and keeping a high-definition image quality at the user's gaze. Additionally, it brings Composition Layers, a method for displaying textures in XR applications in an optimal quality.
 
</div> Analyst QuickTake: 
 Improving the foveated rendering API will allow headsets to support higher fidelity experiences, improving user immersion. In <a href="https: 
//sp-edge.com/updates/26205"> February 2024 </a> , it made its platform available to create XR experiences for the Apple Vision Pro, seeking to expand its customer base.

All Updates

Transcarent raises USD 126 million in Series D funding to enhance AI capabilities and fuel growth

ThroughPut Inc. launches new AI capabilities for inventory management

SpaceX launches Maxar's first two Earth observation satellites

Maia Farms raises CAD 2.3 million in pre-seed funding to advance operations

Motional receives USD 448 million from Hyundai; Hyundai to buy out stake from Aptiv for controlling 85% interest

Motional receives USD 448 million from Hyundai; Hyundai to buy out stake from Aptiv for controlling 85% interest

Airbnb introduces group booking features and new 'Icons' experience category

Roblox opens immersive video ad format to all advertisers; partners with IAS and Kartnar to optimize analytics

Snapchat introduces new AR and GenAI tools to create interactive advertising experiences

Unity launches 6 Preview with improved XR development features