SkyLab, a Singapore headquartered and fast-growing innovator in AI and GPU as a Service (GPUaaS) cloud service platforms, has announced the expansion of XR Cloud into Korea through a strategic partnership with Esnet Systems, a leading ICT solutions provider.
This move will accelerate AI-driven innovation by providing enterprises, research institutions, and startups instant access to high-performance GPU computing without the traditional barriers of cost and procurement delays.
To address this, SkyLab’s XR Cloud—powered by its flagship FusionFlow™ Cloud Service Platform—delivers enterprise-grade AI computing on demand. This GPUaaS model eliminates the need for expensive GPU hardware investments, enabling organizations to scale AI workloads instantly and cost-effectively.
Democratising AI’s Infrastructure Bottleneck with XR Cloud GPUaaS
The phenomenal growth of AI machine learning, and generative AI applications worldwide has created a critical challenge and is pushing computing infrastructure to its limits. Many enterprises struggle with:
Skyrocketing costs of GPU ownership, limiting AI innovation.
Unpredictable access to compute resources, due to supply chain constraints.
Complex, fragmented infrastructure, making AI deployments slow and inefficient.
SkyLab’s XR Cloud eliminates these barriers by delivering:
On-Demand Enterprise GPU Power – Instant access to AI-optimized NVIDIA GPUs, including H100 & H200.
Seamless AI Scalability – Grow AI workloads effortlessly with flexible compute allocation.
Optimized AI Infrastructure Management – Integrated GPU scheduling & Kubernetes clusters for efficiency.
Powering Korea’s AI Boom with Strategic Expansion
With Korea emerging as a major AI and digital transformation hub, SkyLab’s partnership with Esnet Systems will accelerate access to high-performance AI computing across industries.
Yu In-cheol, Head of AI/Cloud Center, Esnet Systems, stated: “AI infrastructure is the foundation of innovation. By integrating XR Cloud into our AI solutions portfolio, we’re providing businesses and research institutions with the GPU compute power they need—scalably and cost-effectively. Our partnership with SkyLab will unlock new AI capabilities across Korea’s technology ecosystem.”
Stephen Ho, Group CEO, SkyLab, added:”The future of AI requires flexibility, scalability, and seamless access to high-performance computing—yet traditional infrastructure models are held back by limited and expensive GPU resources. SkyLab is changing that with XR Cloud. By leveraging our FusionFlow™ Cloud Service Platform, we are enabling enterprises, startups, and research institutions to innovate and deploy AI applications at scale. Our collaboration with Esnet Systems is a critical step in advancing AI accessibility across Korea.”
Why XR Cloud GPUaaS is a Game-Changer
SkyLab’s XR Cloud GPUaaS is designed for:
Enterprise AI & Cloud Innovation – Corporations can train and deploy AI models without GPU constraints.
AI Research & LLM Development – Universities and labs gain on-demand access to high-performance compute.
Startup Acceleration – AI-first startups scale without the cost burden of hardware ownership.
Unlike traditional cloud providers, XR Cloud delivers:
Faster AI Model Deployment – No long GPU queue times, instant provisioning.
Cost-Optimized AI Compute – Flexible pricing models to reduce capital expenses.
Enterprise-Ready Security & Compliance – Fully integrated sovereign and hybrid cloud AI compute.
About SkyLab
SkyLab is a Singapore-based deep-tech company specializing in AI infrastructure, GPUaaS, and cloud computing solutions. XR Cloud, SkyLab’s AI and GPU as a Service (GPUaaS) brand, is built on its flagship FusionFlow™ Cloud Service Platform, delivering on-demand enterprise-grade GPU computing for machine learning, deep learning, AI analytics, and edge AI applications.
SkyLab’s solutions power AI workloads across 20 countries and 194 data centers, ensuring:
Sovereign cloud compliance for regulated industries.
Hybrid cloud and edge AI capabilities for seamless, real-time AI deployment.
Enterprise-grade security to meet AI-first compliance needs.
About Esnet Systems
Esnet Systems is a leading ICT solutions provider specializing in AI, cloud computing, and enterprise digital transformation. A trusted partner of NVIDIA, Dell, and Cisco, Esnet integrates SkyLab’s XR Cloud GPUaaS to provide scalable, high-performance AI computing to enterprises, financial institutions, and research organizations.
Graid Technology, the leader in GPU-based RAID solutions, today announced that SupremeRAID™ SE now supports the entire NVIDIA® GeForce RTX™ 5000 series, delivering unparalleled RAID performance to high-end workstation users. With support for the GeForce RTX 5090, 5080, 5070 Ti, 5070, and 5060, professionals can leverage NVIDIA’s most powerful GPUs to maximize NVMe SSD performance with exceptional efficiency and resilience.
Graid Technology Announces SupremeRAID™ SE Support for the NVIDIA® GeForce RTX™ 5000 Series
SupremeRAID™ SE is Graid Technology’s bring-your-own-GPU RAID solution, designed for workstation users who demand high-speed data access, reliability, and flexibility. With support for the GeForce RTX 5000 series, users can take advantage of NVIDIA’s cutting-edge Blackwell architecture and ultra-fast GDDR7 memory to eliminate RAID bottlenecks and unlock the full potential of NVMe SSD storage.
“With SupremeRAID™ SE, we’re continuing to redefine what’s possible for workstation RAID,” said Leander Yu, President and CEO at Graid Technology. “By expanding support to the entire NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5000 series, we’re giving professionals even greater flexibility to harness their GPU’s power for extreme data performance – whether for AI, content creation or other demanding workloads.”
SupremeRAID™ SE enables users to configure RAID across 4 to 8 NVMe SSDs, ensuring maximum throughput and resilience while freeing up CPU resources for other intensive tasks.
Key benefits of SupremeRAID™ SE with the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5000 series include:
Unmatched AI and Compute Power – Leverages NVIDIA’s Blackwell architecture for high-speed RAID processing.
Support for the Latest GPUs – Now compatible with the GeForce RTX 5090, 5080, 5070 Ti, 5070, and 5060.
Bring-Your-Own-GPU Flexibility – Users can maximize their investment by utilizing existing GPU hardware for RAID acceleration.
Optimized for Extreme Workloads – Ideal for AI, machine learning, 3D rendering, video editing, and gaming development.
Simplified, Software-Defined RAID – Easy configuration without the complexity of traditional hardware RAID solutions.
Join the SupremeRAID™ SE Beta Program
Graid Technology continues to pioneer next-generation RAID solutions, reinforcing its position as a market leader. Users interested in experiencing SupremeRAID™ SE with the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5000 series can sign up for the beta program at beta.graidtech.com.
About Graid Technology
Graid Technology is transforming what’s possible for high-performance computing. As the creator of SupremeRAID™, the world’s first and only GPU-based RAID, the company is committed to helping enterprises unlock the full potential of their NVMe SSDs. Through global partnerships with industry leaders like NVIDIA, Supermicro, and Dell Technologies, Graid Technology delivers cutting-edge RAID solutions for AI, machine learning, media & entertainment, and high-performance computing. For more information, visit www.graidtech.com.
Contact Information Andrea Eaken Senior Director of Marketing, Americas & EMEA andrea.eaken@graidtech.com 949-742-9928
DAS Universe Pte Ltd, a leader in curating immersive digital experiences, is proud to announce a strategic collaboration with the Singapore Golf Association (SGA), LG Electronics Singapore Pte Ltd (LG), and Keppel Club to launch an Immersive Digital Signage Project. This marks the first installation of immersive digital signage solutions at a golf club in Singapore, offering a new and dynamic advertising experience.
As part of the collaboration, an advanced LED Display Screen – jointly sponsored by SGA and Lexus – will be installed at the Golf Bag Drop-Off Point at Keppel Club. The digital signage will feature immersive visuals, advertisements, and promotional content, transforming the venue into a visually engaging and modern space for advertisers and visitors alike.
DAS Universe will manage the project, utilizing its expertise in project management and digital content production, while LG will provide its advanced display technology. The digital signage will be operational at Keppel Club in early 2025, with plans for further installations across the country.
“SGA is pleased to be part of this initiative that brings immersive digital signage to golf clubs in Singapore, with Keppel Club being the first club to feature this. The project will take a significant step in enhancing the overall experience for golfers, offering new opportunities for engagement,” said Joshua Ho, General Manager of Singapore Golf Association (SGA).
“We are excited to be the first golf club in Singapore to introduce this innovative signage solution,” said Desmond Chua, General Manager of Keppel Club Singapore. “This initiative is a reflection of our ongoing commitment to modernizing our facilities while preserving the premium experience that Keppel Club is renowned for.”
“We are thrilled to showcase our latest indoor LED signage at the prestigious Keppel Club, a testament to LG’s commitment to innovation and excellence in display technology. At LG, we believe that technology should not only enhance experiences but also inspire creativity and engagement. This display is a perfect embodiment of that philosophy, offering vibrant colours and dynamic content that captivate audiences and elevate any setting.” remarked Lee Kunho, Managing Director of LG Electronics Singapore Pte Ltd.
James Hong, Managing Director of DAS Universe shared, “We are so excited to introduce immersive digital signage to a venue as iconic as Keppel Club. This partnership is a testament to our dedication to delivering cutting-edge, immersive experiences. With the anticipated success of the installation at Keppel Club, we plan to expand the DAS Universe Immersive Digital Signage (DIDS) model to other golf courses and leisure locations across Singapore and the wider Southeast Asian region.”
About DAS Universe (DU)
DAS Universe is a leading provider of immersive digital experiences and solutions, specializing in cutting-edge digital displays and interactive content for a wide range of industries. Known for its innovative approach, DAS Universe transforms ordinary spaces into captivating visual experiences that engage and inspire audiences.
Advancing Photon Detection and Imaging: Photonis Unveils Cricket(TM) Pro and PhotonPix(TM)
Photonis, a leading brand of Exosensand global leader in advanced photon detection and imaging solutions, proudly announces the launch of Cricket™ Pro and PhotonPix™. Designed to redefine the possibilities of single photon detection and imaging, these cutting-edge solutions empower researchers and industry professionals to achieve unparalleled performance across applications such as biomedical imaging, quantum science, and high-energy physics.
Cricket Pro and PhotonPix
These technologies will officially debut at SPIE Photonics West 2025 in San Francisco, CA.
The Cricket™ Pro brings unprecedented imaging capabilities for low-light and single-photon imaging applications. This innovative, plug-and-play image intensifier adapter easily fits any professional, scientific, F-Mount camera, delivering high resolution and ultra-high-speed functionality for demanding low-light applications. Key features of the Cricket™ Pro include:
Expanded 25 mm active detection area
High-speed gating as fast as 3 nanoseconds
Remarkable 3 MHz Burst or 30kHz repetition rate
Matched with High-performance Photonis Image Intensifier
F-Mount lens/camera interface
Fully integrated power and gating electronics
With these enhancements, Cricket™ Pro sets a new benchmark for scientific imaging, providing precise, rapid, and reliable performance tailored for researchers and industry professionals.
Photonis also proudly introduces PhotonPix™, a high-count rate MCP-PMT-based plug-and-play module engineered for ultra-high timing precision single-photon detection. Combining state-of-the-art technology with user-centric design, PhotonPix offers:
An Ø8 mm sensitive area
Extreme-low dark count rate as low as 20 cps
Count rates exceeding 200 MHz in Burst mode, making it ideal for high-demand applications
Timing resolution below 15 ps for unmatched precision
PhotonPix™ is ideal for ultra-fast Single Photon Detection and time-correlated applications such as LIDAR, Photon Entanglement, or Lifetime Imaging. The module’s versatility accommodates various high-quantum-efficiency (Hi-QE) photocathodes from Photonis, covering the spectrum range from 150nm to 900nm, making it the perfect fit for researchers and industry professionals.
Experience the Future of Photon Detection and Imaging Discover how the Cricket™ Pro and PhotonPix™ can transform your research and applications. Visit Photonis at Booth #1827 during SPIE Photonics West 2025 to see live demonstrations and connect with our experts.
“Our participation at Photonics West and the launch of Cricket™ Pro and PhotonPix™ demonstrate our commitment to setting new standards in single photon detection and imaging. These innovative technologies provide unprecedented performance, giving researchers and professionals the tools to drive advancements in various fields, from biomedical imaging to quantum applications,” said Ulrich Laupper, President of the Exosens Ultimate Detection Business Unit.
ABOUT PHOTONIS: Photonis is a leading product brand of Exosens, a high-tech company with more than 85 years of experience in the innovation, development, manufacture and sale of high-end electro-optical technologies. Photonis offers its customers photo-detection and low light conditions imaging solutions for extremely demanding environments such as Defense & Security, Nuclear Safety, Life Science and Industrial & Non-Destructive testing. Photonis is internationally recognized as a leading brand and a major innovator in its fields with production and R&D sites in Europe and North America.
On January 7, 2025, the four-day International Consumer Electronics Show (CES 2025) was grandly held in Las Vegas. As a bellwether for technological innovation, CES serves not only as a platform to display the latest technological achievements but also as an essential window into future technological trends.
Vortex 8’s Stunning Showcase Highlights the Limitless Potential of Water Purification Technology Viomi Technology Co., Ltd. (“Viomi,”, “the Company”, NASDAQ: VIOT) made its grand entrance at CES 2025 with its new product, the Vortex 8. This launch not only highlights the Company’s cutting-edge position in water purification technology but also showcases its deep commitment to sustainability and relentless pursuit of innovation.
Viomi’s booth featured two flagship products: the Kunlun Mineral Water Purifier and the Vortex 8. Both products are equipped with RO filtration technology, which leverages its precision of 0.0001 microns to effectively remove harmful pollutants such as PFOA, PFOS, viruses, heavy metals, and microplastics. Additionally, the systems significantly lower the Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) levels, providing consumers with pure and safe drinking water. With an efficient 3:1 wastewater ratio and a 4-year long-life filter design, these products not only improve filtration efficiency but also significantly reduce water wastage and replacement costs. This marks a major breakthrough for Viomi in the field of home water health. Vortex 8 had previously gained strong support on Kickstarter, raising over HKD 450,000 from nearly 200 backers, exceeding expectations by 1,200%. Following its launch on Amazon, it has also received enthusiastic feedback from consumers. Users commonly praise the Vortex 8 for its ability to effectively conserve water, ease of installation, and high marks for its RO filtration technology.
Furthermore, the Viomi Kunlun Mineral Water Purifier offers a unique experience, featuring the ability to release six vital minerals. This provides users seeking a high-quality, healthy lifestyle with a drinking water solution enriched with beneficial minerals, redefining the standards and possibilities for modern household health water. The Kunlun Mineral Water Purifier’s filter core is sourced from Kunlun Mountain’s blue stone mineral deposits. Through two industry-first innovations—NLS natural lava physical composite technology and SMM mineral micropore passivation—along with AI mineral slow-release algorithms, it intelligently adjusts the system for stable and efficient mineral release from the filter core. The water filtered by the Kunlun system contains six beneficial minerals—strontium, sodium, magnesium, potassium, calcium, and metasilicic acid—similar to the mineral content found in natural mineral waters. Among these, strontium levels reach 0.4-1.4 mg/L, which is twice the national standard (0.2 mg/L), enabling users to enjoy high-quality Kunlun mineral water containing strontium and metasilicic acid right at home.
Viomi’s Founder and CEO, Chen Xiaoping, remarked: “Vortex 8 is more than just a water purifier; it is an enhancement of everyday living. With its exceptional performance, long-lasting durability, and environmentally friendly design, it epitomizes our commitment to providing cleaner and better water to every household.”
Showcasing China’s Innovation: Viomi Establishes a New Standard in the Water Filtration Industry As Chinese companies continue to enhance their technological capabilities and product quality, they are progressively establishing strong brand identities through sustained investment in R&D and active market expansion. As a result, Chinese enterprises are emerging as key players on the global stage. In recent years, the water purifier industry has experienced positive growth, driven by policy guidance, increasing market demand, and technological advancements. The Chinese government has introduced a series of policies aimed at promoting the development of energy-efficient and environmentally friendly water purification products, aligning with the country’s long-term goal of achieving carbon peak by 2030. The State Council’s “Water Conservation Regulations” have also proposed an innovative approach to water management, emphasizing the importance of water conservation and addressing water resource issues within the broader framework of modernization. These policies are not only driving the upgrade of water purifier products but also creating a favorable development environment for the industry. As consumer awareness of water safety continues to rise, the demand for water purification products in China is expected to grow, presenting significant market potential. According to the China Forward Industry Research Institute, the Chinese water purifier market is projected to grow at an annual rate of nearly 9%, potentially exceeding 30 billion RMB by 2028. Meanwhile, the U.S. water filtration market is also experiencing steady growth, with a projected market size of $10.4 billion by 2032. According to a report from the nonprofit organization DigDeep, 2.2 million people in the U.S. lack access to basic indoor plumbing and tap water, and over 44 million people rely on substandard water systems, highlighting the critical role of water purifiers.
As a leader in the water purification industry, Viomi is spearheading technological advancements with its “AI for Better Water” smart purification technology. Viomi’s ERO+AI technology enables real-time water quality adjustment and monitoring while retaining beneficial minerals in the water. In 2024, Viomi underwent a strategic business reorganization, divesting from certain loss-making operations to focus exclusively on its core water purification business. By leveraging its extensive expertise in AI, smart hardware, and software development, Viomi is committed to providing superior drinking water solutions for households worldwide. As a pioneer in the global water filtration industry, Viomi has applied for over 1,600 water purification patents and more than 500 invention patents, dedicated to advancing water purification standards through advanced reverse osmosis systems and intelligent filtration technologies.
Viomi’s product lineup spans from under-sink RO systems to comprehensive whole-house softening and purification solutions, as well as countertop models, offering a wide variety of choices for different household needs. These products cater to water requirements in various settings, including living rooms, bedrooms, and studies, while also enhancing both aesthetic appeal and practicality through user-centric designs and environmentally friendly materials. Viomi’s commitment to innovation and market strategy has positioned the company as a driving force in the industry’s shift towards smarter, healthier water solutions. Moreover, Viomi operates a state-of-the-art “Water Purifier Gigafactory,” with an annual production capacity of 5 million units and a filter element capacity of 30 million units. This highly integrated supply chain and automated production line ensure top-tier product quality and operational efficiency. The factory’s high-standard, clean production environment, along with a fully traceable quality control system, solidifies Viomi’s dominant position in the industry. Through these advantages, Viomi is not only meeting the growing global demand for clean, fresh, and healthy drinking water but also setting a new benchmark for sustainable development in the water filtration sector.
Financial Outlook From a financial perspective, Viomi is optimistic about its full-year 2024 performance, with expected revenues from continuing operations projected to be between 1.7 billion and 1.9 billion RMB. The Company anticipates profits from these operations to range between 110 million and 130 million RMB. This positive outlook is closely tied to the company’s strategic business reorganization completed in August 2024, which involved divesting certain IoT@Home businesses and assets in order to concentrate on its core water purification operations. This restructuring initiative aims to optimize the company’s business structure, enhance operational efficiency, and focus on R&D and innovation in the water purification field. For the first half of 2024, Viomi reported net revenues of 1.04 billion RMB, with net profit attributable to ordinary shareholders reaching 6 million RMB, marking a successful turnaround. Excluding the divested businesses, revenue from core water purification and related services exceeded 800 million RMB, with operating profit surpassing 50 million RMB. The Company’s overall gross margin increased from 22.0% in the previous year to 24.8%, while operating expenses decreased by 19.2% year-on-year, driven by continuous cost-reduction and efficiency-improvement efforts. Viomi’s strategic focus on its core business not only enhances its profitability but also strengthens investor confidence in the company’s future. With continued investments in the water purification sector, Viomi is well-positioned to maintain growth throughout the second half of the year, achieving its annual performance goals.
At CES 2025, Viomi showcased its industry leadership with the Vortex 8’s innovative filtration technology and versatile applications, marking a significant milestone in the Company’s technological progress. This development underscores the rise of Chinese technology on the global stage and injects new momentum into the pursuit of a better future. As technology continues to evolve and expand globally, we have every reason to expect that more Chinese companies, like Viomi, will emerge to offer groundbreaking innovations and transformative solutions to global consumers.
About VIOMI VIOMI is a NASDAQ-listed company, dedicated to advancing water purification technology under its vision of “AI For Better Water”. With over a decade of experience in creating smart home solutions, VIOMI has redefined the standards for water purification through its advanced reverse osmosis systems and intelligent filtration technologies. With a state-of-the-art, 100,000-square-meter factory and fully automated production lines, VIOMI continues to push the boundaries of innovation in the water industry. VIOMI’s mission is to make clean, pure, and sustainable water accessible to homes everywhere. Having secured over 4,000 patents and global recognition, VIOMI leads the water filtration industry while focusing on improving global access to safe, clean drinking water.
For enquiry, please contact Intelligent Joy Limited: Rosanne Ren Phone:(852)3594 6407 Email:pr-team@intelligentjoy.com
Successfully expanded customer base and injected new momentum into Hong Kong’s economy
– Three fairs attracted over 80,000 buyers from 119 countries and regions – Buyer numbers from ASEAN countries including Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines and Thailand grew significantly – One green toys exhibitor expected new orders generated by this year’s fair to grow by 10-15 percent over last year’s fair – Tech toy products remained popular among buyers. A US buyer spent some US$450,000 on related products
The 51st HKTDC Hong Kong Toys & Games Fair, 16th HKTDC Hong Kong Baby Products Fair and 23rd Hong KongInternational Stationery & School Supplies Fair concluded successfully today at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. The Hong Kong Toys & Games Fair and Hong Kong Baby Products Fair were organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), while the Hong Kong International Stationery & School Supplies Fair was jointly organised by the HKTDC and Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd. The four-day physical fairs attracted over 80,000 buyers from 119 countries and regions, marking a promising start for the HKTDC trade shows this year, while promoting the development of Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) and driving Hong Kong’s economic growth.
As the first round of trade fairs this year, some 40,000 buyers visited the Toys & Games Fair, while more than 26,000 buyers attended the Baby Products Fair and over 14,000 buyers came to the Stationery & School Supplies Fair. The fairs adopted the HKTDC’s hybrid EXHIBITION+ model, which includes the physical shows and virtual access through the Click2Match smart business matching platform, connecting exhibitors and buyers until 16 January.
Sophia Chong, HKTDC Deputy Executive Director, said: “This year’s trio of fairs were very international, bringing together more than 2,500 exhibitors from 34 countries and regions to showcase innovative ideas from all around the globe, and kickstarting HKTDC’s 2025 calendar of events. We have actively promoted the events through more than 50 HKTDC offices around the world, and online and offline channels to attract international buyers and exhibitors to participate in the fairs and stay overnight in Hong Kong, to promote MICE tourism and Hong Kong’s economic development. This year, buyer numbers from ASEAN countries including Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines and Thailand grew significantly compared to 2024. The fairs also received European buyers from Germany, Italy, Russia and the United Kingdom, as well as those from Israel, Mexico and the US.”
Expanded new customer base and created cross-industry business opportunities Themed New Play for All, the three exhibitions featured multiple zones, from toys for infants and toddlers to STEM education toys, smart-tech toys & games, green toys to collectible toys designed for adults with a childlike spirit, catering to the needs of all age groups and market demands.
The Hong Kong Toys & Games Fair saw a floorspace expansion at the Electronic and Remote Control Toys and Educational Toys & Gameszones. Funded by the Trade and Industrial Organisation Support Fund of the Trade and Industry Department, HKSAR Government, the Toys Manufacturers’ Association of Hong Kong and FHKI Group 19 (Hong Kong Toys Council) presented the first ESG pavilion, showcasing toys incorporating Environment, Social and Governance (ESG) elements. A Green Leaf Label was displayed at the booths of green exhibitors at the Toys and Stationery fairs for buyers’ easy reference. This year, over 370 exhibitors displayed products with a Green Leaf label, 70% more than last year.
Panley (H.K.) Ltd., an exhibitor selling green toys made from Forest Stewardship Council – certificated paper, adopts soy ink printing and paper packaging in the production line. The company’s senior sales manager, Peter Law said: “Buyers’ feedback has been encouraging. The number of buyers visiting our booth increased by 30-40 percent as compared to last year. We have found more than 10 potential buyers from Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Spain, Thailand, the United Arab Emirates and the US. They are leading importers, distributors and school supplies buyers with strong purchasing intention. Besides, the Click2Match smart business matching platform helped us connect buyers from the Czech Republic, Spain and Thailand in advance, before we meet at the physical fair. We expect new orders generated by this year’s fair to grow by 10-15 percent over last year’s fair. The ESG Pavilion provides an excellent platform for us to promote eco-friendly toys to international buyers and demonstrate our ESG pledge. We see a bright prospect for green toys.”
Tech toy products remained popular among buyers. Odyssey Toys, a toys wholesaler from the US, sells high-tech toys, including drones, remote-controlled vehicles, and educational gadgets to retailers across the country. The company’s owner, Michael Irigoyen, said: “We found some suppliers from Mainland China and plan to spend some US$450,000 on products such as remote-controlled boats, drones, planes, and digital cameras for kids.”
Johnny Mui, Vice President – Merchandise of the Toys”R”Us (Asia) Limited, said: “The Hong Kong Toys & Games Fair and Hong Kong Baby Products Fair are the must-attend international sourcing events for Toys“R”Us Asia each year. Looking ahead, we see tremendous opportunities in the growing kidult and plush segments. We are proud to contribute to and benefit from the momentum driven by Hong Kong’s pivotal role as a global hub for the toy industry.” The fair also attracted buyers from outside the toy industry. Media Prima Berhad, a multi-platform media group from Malaysia, attended the Toys & Games Fair to procure corporate promotional toys. The company’s business lead, Hafiz Nazer, stated that the total value of the orders exceeds US$100,000.
With more than 660 exhibitors, this year’s Hong Kong Baby Products Fair boasted the most exhibitors ever with an increase of 7% more than last year. The popular ODM Strollers and Gear zone continued for the second consecutive year with over 80 exhibitors, made it easier than ever for buyers to source products from original design manufacturers.
Korean exhibitor i-angel Co., Ltd.,has participated in the Hong Kong Baby Products Fair since 2008, and it’s CEO, Jinseop Lee said: “Hong Kong is an international trading hub, and a perfect place for us to look for new distributors and explore new business opportunities. In fact, the fair has helped us connect with our current distributors. We launched our new collection of hipseat baby carriers at the fair this year and have received positive feedback from international buyers. We have been in touch with a potential distributor from Canada and a potential buyer from a large department store chain in Thailand. We expect to generate at least US$1 million in new orders from the fair.”
The Hong Kong International Stationery & School Supplies Fair showcased the latest in creative art supplies, gift stationery, school and office supplies. Türkish exhibitor, Mercanlar Mutfak Esyalari San. Tic. A.S., presented their water bottles and back-to-school sets at the fair. The exhibitor has connected with buyers from Belarus, Germany, Hong Kong, Taiwan, the UK and US. The company’s export manager, Özlem Durmaz said: We are in proactive discussion with serval new customers with potential orders estimated at a total of US$100,000. Two US retailers were also looking to source our products, with each order amounting to more than US$100,000.”
Asian Toys & Games Forum explore social responsibility of toy makers The flagship event Asian Toys & Games Forum was held during the Toys & Games fair. Themed Beyond Fun and Play: Fostering Social Responsibility in the Toy Industry, international toy and game industry experts discussed the role of toys and games in daily life. Terrence Hui, Executive Committee Member of Hong Kong Toys Council hosted the discussion with a panel of expert speakers and covered the opportunities for the toys industry in the health sector and the ageing market.
For more comments from exhibitors and buyers, please visit the following websites:
About the HKTDC The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) is a statutory body established in 1966 to promote, assist and develop Hong Kong’s trade. With over 50 offices globally, including 13 in Mainland China, the HKTDC promotes Hong Kong as a two-way global investment and business hub. The HKTDC organises international exhibitions, conferences and business missions to create bumediaroom.hktdc.comsiness opportunities for companies, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), in the mainland and international markets. The HKTDC also provides up-to-date market insights and product information via research reports and digital news channels. For more information, please visit: www.hktdc.com/aboutus.
Unleash breakthrough AI performance with GPUDirect Storage (GDS) and intelligent data offload with SupremeRAID(TM) AE (AI Edition).
Graid Technology, the global leader in innovative storage performance solutions, is proud to announce the launch of SupremeRAID™ AE (AI Edition), the most resilient RAID data protection solution for enterprises leveraging GPU servers and AI workloads. Featuring GPUDirect Storage support and an intelligent data offload engine, SupremeRAID™ AE redefines how AI applications manage data, delivering unmatched performance, flexibility, and efficiency.
SupremeRAID™ AE (AI Edition)
Unleash Breakthrough AI Performance with GPUDirect Storage (GDS) and Intelligent Data Offload
SupremeRAID™ AE’s cutting-edge technology empowers organizations to accelerate AI workflows by reducing data access latency and increasing I/O efficiency, while protecting mission-critical datasets with enterprise-grade reliability. Its seamless scalability enables enterprises to meet future AI demands without overhauling existing infrastructure. Designed for a wide range of users, SupremeRAID™ AE benefits AI/ML teams by delivering faster training and inference for data-intensive models, enterprises with GPU servers by optimizing GPU performance for critical workloads, and data scientists and researchers by providing seamless access to vast datasets without bottlenecks. IT teams also gain resilient, scalable RAID storage that integrates effortlessly into existing systems without requiring additional hardware.
SupremeRAID™ AE introduces a suite of features tailored to AI workloads, including: GPUDirect Storage (GDS) Support: Transfers data directly from NVMe drives to GPU memory, bypassing the host memory to maximize I/O performance and minimize latency. This feature ensures faster, more efficient AI training and inference.
Intelligent Data Offload Engine: Optimizes GPU utilization, allowing enterprises to fully leverage their GPU investments for superior performance and efficiency.
Flexible Deployment Options: Start by sharing GPUs across workloads and transition to dedicated GPUs as demand increases, enabling seamless scalability with reduced upfront costs.
Diverse NVMe SSD Form Factor Support: Full compatibility with a wide variety of NVMe SSD form factors ensures easy integration into existing storage environments.
NVMe-oF (NVMe over Fabrics) Support: Extends storage capacity beyond a single host, offering scalability for massive datasets critical to AI innovations.
Clustering AI Converged Storage: Seamless compatibility with distributed file systems like BeeGFS, Lustre, and Ceph lowers external storage costs and reduces dataset migration efforts.
“SupremeRAID™ AE is a game-changer for enterprises seeking to unlock the full potential of their AI workloads,” said Leander Yu, President and CEO of Graid Technology. “This product was designed specifically for GPU-driven AI applications, combining GPUDirect Storage support and an intelligent data offload engine to ensure unmatched performance and resiliency. With SupremeRAID™ AE, organizations can meet the growing demands of AI with ease and confidence.”
SupremeRAID™ AE (AI Edition) will be available to the public in Q1 2025 through Graid Technology’s extensive partner network, including T1 server manufacturers and system integrators. For more information, visit https://www.graidtech.com/product/supremeraid-ae/ or email info@graidtech.com.
Contact Information Andrea Eaken Director of Marketing, Americas & EMEA | Graid Technology andrea.eaken@graidtech.com 949-742-9928
AEM Holdings Ltd. (“AEM” or “the Group”), a global leader in test innovation, today announced the appointment of Kwek You-Cheer as its new Chief Financial Officer (“CFO”) with effect from 2 January 2025. Mr. Kwek has over 20 years’ experience in strategic financial leadership and operations internationally, which positions him well to guide AEM’s financial strategy and drive operational efficiency across the Group.
Kwek You-Cheer
Mr. Kwek joins AEM from Lenovo Group’s Asia Pacific Infrastructure Solutions Group (ISG), where he served as CFO. Prior to Lenovo, Mr. Kwek spent time as CFO at Microsoft Hong Kong and in a variety of finance roles in over a decade at Schneider Electric.
Mr. Kwek graduated from Nanyang Technological University with a Bachelor of Accountancy (Honours).
Ms. Amy Leong, Chief Executive Officer of AEM, commented, “We are pleased to have Mr. Kwek join the team, and believe his experience and knowledge will be an invaluable asset to the team in helping us achieve robust growth with a focus on improved operational efficiency.”
About AEM Holdings Ltd.
AEM is a global leader in test innovation. We provide the most comprehensive semiconductor and electronics test solutions based on the best-in-class technologies, processes, and customer support. AEM has a global presence across Asia, Europe, and the United States. With manufacturing plants located in Singapore, Malaysia (Penang), Indonesia (Batam), Vietnam, and Finland (Lieto), South Korea, and the United States (Tempe) and a global network of engineering support, sales offices, associates, and distributors, we offer our customers a robust and resilient ecosystem of test innovation and support.
AEM Holdings Ltd. is listed on the main board of the Singapore Exchange (Reuters: AEM. SI; Bloomberg: AEM SP). AEM’s head office is in Singapore.
Issued for and on behalf of AEM Holdings Ltd. by Financial PR Pte Ltd
Celebrating Excellence of all “EE Professionals”! The 2024 EE Awards Asia Honors Innovation and Talent
The premier annual event for Taiwan and Asia’s electronics industry,EE Awards Asia 2024, took center stage on December 5 at the GRAND HILAI TAIPEI. Organized by ASPENCORE’s Taiwan/Asia team, representing the globally influential EE Times and EDN brands, this fourth edition of the EE Awards Asia continues to advance its mission: “Shaping the Future with the Electronics Industry; Transforming the World with Engineers!” The event gathered professionals from industry, academia, and research across the region to celebrate outstanding achievements and honor the innovators behind the electronics sector—the engineers, or “EE Professionals.”
From left: EE Times/EDN Asia Editor Stephen Las Marias, Himax Optoelectronics Co-founder and CEO Wu Bingchang, Power Semiconductor Chairman Huang Chongren, EE Times/EDN Taiwan General Manager Wu Chongyi, National Development Commission Deputy Chairman Zhan Fangguan, Dr. Chenming Hu, Qiu Zhenxiang, former CEO of Nangang IC Design Incubation Center, Jiang Xuzheng, special consultant of the Institute of Green Energy and Environment of ITRI, Liao Ronghuang, leader of ITRI’s Industrial Service Center
This year’s EE Awards Asia attracted over 400 submissions from nearly 170 companies worldwide, competing across 36 categories, including Company Awards, Product Awards, Technology Platform Awards, Innovation Awards, and Analyst Awards. Since online voting opened in early August, the event has engaged nearly 10,000 readers from Taiwan and the Asia-Pacific region, reflecting a strong and enthusiastic response.
Grace Wu, General Manager of EE Times/EDN Taiwan for the Asia-Pacific region, stated: “Through this event, we aim to connect the local industry with global technology communities, inspire the next generation of engineers and attract talent to the electronics sector, while fostering a platform for technical exchange and knowledge transfer. Just as Chinese Taipei national baseball team showcased resilience to win the WBSC Premier12 championship and making the world see Taiwan, ASPENCORE will continue to elevate Taiwan & Asia electronics industry on the global stage through EE Awards Asia.”
Honoring Excellence: Celebrated Leaders and Innovators
The Executive of the Year and Outstanding EE Professional awards, selected by ASPENCORE’s global editorial team, remain the most prestigious highlights each year. These accolades recognize leaders and engineers who have driven industry progress and technological innovation.
This year’s Executive of the Year was presented to Frank Huang, Chairman of PSMC, and Jordan Wu, CEO of Himax Technologies. Under Huang’s visionary leadership, PSMC was successfully transformed into a foundry, restoring the company to glory. He also pioneered PSMC’s entry into the challenging Indian market, expanding Taiwan’s semiconductor presence. Meanwhile, Wu’s keen market insights have positioned Himax as a global leader in automotive displays and AIoT, earning a spot among the top 10 IC design companies worldwide in 2021. Both leaders exemplify excellence in guiding teams to achieve technological breakthroughs and market success.
The Outstanding EE Professional award was conferred on two renowned innovators in the field of R&D. Dr. Chenming Hu, an Academician of Academia Sinica and Honorary Professor at UC Berkeley, is celebrated as the “Foreseer of Microelectronics” for his pioneering contributions to 3D FinFET technology, pushing the boundaries of semiconductor innovation. Similarly, Dr. Kai-Sheng Chou, CEO of MEET International, leveraged his deep expertise in wireless communication, fiber optics, and networking protocols to build a successful electronic testing equipment manufacturing company. Their groundbreaking contributions set a high standard for engineering excellence and industry development.
Announcing the Winners of EE Awards Asia 2024
The Corporate Awards recognized outstanding companies in automotive electronics, AIoT, and electronic components distribution, while the Product Awards spotlighted the most favored ICs, products, and solutions across categories such as RF/Wireless, MCU/Driver IC, Power Management IC/Semiconductors, EDA, IP/Processors, Memory, Security, Test & Measurement (T&M), Sensors, AI, Passive Components, and Development Kits.
The Innovation Awards highlighted the most promising startups and innovation/R&D teams. This year also introduced new categories, including Analyst Awards and Technology Platforms Awards for Smart Manufacturing, Cybersecurity, AI, Cloud Computing, and Networking. These new additions provided an opportunity to recognize the year’s best tools and platforms as chosen by engineering professionals.
The award-winning entries across Corporate, Product, Innovation, and Technology Platform categories reflect the hottest industry trends and company strengths. This year’s surveys revealed AI as a dominant force across industries, with RISC-V and 3D IC technology garnering significant attention. Additionally, AI PCs, Edge AI, and Generative AI emerged as the most discussed and impactful innovations in the electronics sector.
Fostering Innovation and Celebrating Achievements
The 2024 EE Awards Asia series has concluded successfully, thanks to the enthusiastic participation of engineers from Taiwan and the Asia-Pacific region. Special appreciation goes to the industry partners for their strong support, including Cadence, GigaDevice, MEET International, MetaAge, Mouser Electronics, MSquare Technology, Nuvoton Technology, NXP, Texas Instruments (TI), TÜV NORD Taiwan, and Vicinity Technologies.
We eagerly look forward to the 2025 edition, where we will continue to celebrate technological innovation and collaborative achievements. For the complete list of winners and technical highlights, please refer to the attachment at the end of this article and join us in recognizing the brilliance of the 2024 EE Awards Asia!
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We reach over 15 million technologists, designers, engineers, and managers. We connect this electronics community to reliable news, authoritative analysis, industry trends, and daily information on new technology.
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Contact Person Celia Shih Marketing Manager Taiwan/ASEAN Marketing and Circulation Department T: +886 227591366 Ext. 103/222E: celia.shih@aspencore.com
– and Paves the Way for Designing Around the Remaining ‘294 Patent Currently Stands Challenged as Invalid at USPTO
Innoscience Technology, a company founded to create a global energy ecosystem based on high-performance, low-cost, gallium-nitride-on-silicon (GaN-on-Si) power solutions, announced today that the U.S. International Trade Commission’s (“ITC”) November 7, 2024 final determination has confirmed the ability of Innoscience’s customers to import their products into U.S. remain unaffected by the ongoing patent dispute between Innoscience and Efficient Power Conversion Corporation (“EPC”).
In May last year, EPC launched a lawsuit against Innoscience at the ITC, falsely alleging infringement of EPC’s ’508 and ’294 patents. Following an administrative law judge’s initial determination in the past July finding no infringement of claim 1 (the only asserted claim) of the ’508 patent, the latest ITC final determination once again affirmed no violation as to this patent—a huge success for Innoscience.
The final determination, however, affirmed the part of the judge’s initial determination that found violation as to claims 2 and 3 the ’294 patent. The ITC hence has determined to issue a limited exclusion order prohibiting importation of certain accused Innoscience chips. Innoscience disagrees with and will appeal this ruling. This is at least because the ‘294 patent is invalid. Indeed, the U.S Patent and Trademark Office (“USPTO”) instituted an inter partes review (“IPR”) challenging all claims of the ’294 patent under four different grounds and has agreed with Innoscience’s invalidity arguments. The ’294 IPR decision will issue in March 2025.
Innoscience also notes it is established U.S. law that the limited exclusion order does not prohibit Innoscience’s customers from importing end products that use the accused chips. Moreover, since the final decision clarified the meaning of the claim term “compensated GaN layer,” which is at the center of the dispute surrounding the ’294 patent, it has provided clear guidance for Innoscience to design around the ’294 patent by avoiding use of the “compensated GaN layer.” Innoscience already has the design around in place and will release the new products soon.
Accordingly, the EPC litigation shall have no impact on Innoscience’s customers. Moreover, Innoscience will continue to solve the dispute with EPC through appeals in court and invalidity challenges at the USPTO, and is confident that it will achieve a final complete victory.