Amazfit Introduces Active Max: Bigger, Brighter, and Built for Maximum Performance

 The newest member of the Active family blends new design, expanded storage, and longer battery to help users train smarter and reach their goals with confidence.

(BUSINESS WIRE) -- Amazfit, a leading global smart wearable brand by Zepp Health (NYSE: ZEPP), today announces the Amazfit Active Max, the newest member of the Amazfit Active family. Built for everyday athletes and anyone looking to elevate their wellness routine, Active Max blends a 1.5″ ultra-bright AMOLED display, up to 25 days of battery life, easy podcast listening and advanced training tools to support consistent training and clearer visibility across any activity.

Active Max introduces a higher-precision training experience through BioCharge™ readiness insights, adaptive coaching, enhanced strength-training tracking, and comprehensive health metrics designed to clarify performance in real time and over time.

Key Features:

BioCharge™ Energy Monitoring for Better Readiness: Active Max introduces Amazfit’s signature BioCharge™ energy score, which dynamically adjusts throughout the day based on workouts, activity level, and stress, helping users know when to push and when to rest.

Bigger Display. Max Clarity: A 1.5″ ultra-bright AMOLED display delivers exceptional clarity in any setting—whether in the gym, outdoors, or on the move. With up to 3,000 nits of peak brightness, the screen ensures real-time stats are always easy to read.

Bigger Storage, Smarter Maps: 4GB of onboard storage delivers up to 100 hours* of podcast playback during workouts, plus free downloadable maps for outdoor adventures, including more than 2,000 ski resorts with contour details.

Bigger Battery, Longer Endurance: Up to 25 days of power in a lightweight design—reliable for all-day activity and sleep tracking, as well as long-distance training, including marathons.

170+ Sport Modes with Intelligent Strength Training: With 170+ workout modes and AI-powered Zepp Coach™ guidance, Active Max adapts to users’ preferred training styles. Strength Training Mode automatically detects reps, sets, and rest periods across 25 exercises to streamline data capture and support form tracking.

24/7 Health Monitoring: Powered by the latest BioTracker™ PPG biometric sensor, Active Max continuously monitors heart rate, blood oxygen, stress, and sleep quality, offering alerts for abnormally high or low readings.

Stay Connected with Helpful Smart Features: Users can make Bluetooth® calls, send speech-to-text replies (Android), and control the watch using Zepp Flow™ voice commands. Active Max pairs with the Zepp App for deeper health insights and long-term trend tracking.

Active Max features enhancements across three dimensions: a bigger display, bigger storage, and bigger battery life. Pairing lightweight durability with 5 ATM water resistance and 170+ sport modes, Active Max offers versatility for strength sessions, running, and outdoor activities.

*Storage estimates are based on standard audio quality settings. Actual capacity varies significantly by file format, quality selection, and content complexity. Podcast feature available via software update in February 2026.

Pricing and Availability

The Active Max will be available starting December 30, 2025, for $169.00 on Amazfit.com and Amazon.

For more information, please visit www.amazfit.com and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube. Media and influencers are welcome to sign up to Amazfit Affiliate programs on Amazon and Commission Junction via the link.

About Amazfit

Amazfit, a global smart wearable and fitness leader is part of Zepp Health (NYSE: ZEPP), a health technology company with its principal office based in Gorinchem, the Netherlands. Zepp Health operates as a distributed organization, with team members and offices across the Americas, Europe, Asia, and other global markets.

Amazfit builds smart wearables designed around movement — training with intention, recovery with balance, and evolution over time. Built for the way people train today, Amazfit blends endurance, strength, and recovery into a single, coherent rhythm to support sustainable progress over time.

Behind Amazfit is Zepp, which builds the intelligence that supports its training experience. For more information, visit www.amazfit.com.

 

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Contacts

Media Contact

Max Borges Agency for Amazfit

amazfit@maxborgesagency.com

Mary Thompson Woodbury

Head of PR, Amazfit North America

Mary.woodbury@zepp.com

 

UAE’s Medcare treats first international SMA patient with revolutionary intrathecal gene therapy

 Dubai, United Arab Emirates -

The newly licensed intrathecal gene therapy expands life-changing treatment options for children and adults affected by SMA

Medcare Women & Children Hospital has successfully administered a pioneering intrathecal gene therapy for Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) to Hulus, a three-year-old patient from Turkey. This milestone positions Medcare among the first private healthcare providers worldwide to offer this innovative treatment to an older international patient, overcoming previous age and weight limitations.

SMA is a rare neuromuscular disorder that progressively weakens muscles responsible for movement and breathing. This newly licensed one-time therapy addresses the root genetic cause by delivering a functional SMN1 gene.

For Hulus, whose daily routine earlier depended on intensive physiotherapy and hydrotherapy, the procedure from Medcare offered a promising alternative to lifelong injections. His father, Mustafa, shared that despite years of rehabilitation, the therapy has renewed hope for greater independence and quality of life for his son.

“This is a defining moment for SMA care in the region,” said Dr. Shanila Laiju, Group CEO of Medcare Hospitals & Medical Centres. “Families whose children were previously ineligible for gene therapy now have access to a revolutionary treatment that can significantly improve outcomes. This reflects Medcare’s long-standing commitment to children with rare diseases, supported by specialised expertise and advanced infrastructure.”

Since 2020, Medcare has treated more than 180 children with SMA, welcoming families from Iran, Turkey, Nepal, Romania, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Ukraine, Belarus, Lebanon, India, and Ethiopia, reinforcing Dubai’s role as a strategic global hub for medical tourism and paediatric genetic care.

“Older and heavier patients can now benefit from transformative therapy,” said Dr. Vivek Mundada, Consultant Paediatric Neurologist. “This shifts SMA care beyond infant survival toward preserving mobility, independence, and respiratory function in older patients.”

Medcare delivers SMA care through a multidisciplinary model encompassing neurology, pulmonology, orthopaedics, rehabilitation, genetic counselling, and long-term follow-up for international patients.

Aligned with the UAE’s medical tourism vision, Medcare, part of Aster DM Healthcare, continues to invest in advanced technologies, specialised units, and clinical talent to provide timely, high-quality care for rare and complex conditions, including Spinal Muscular Atrophy.

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Contacts

Rania Roxana

Medcare Hospital

rania.akkela@medcarehospital.com

Spain’s CESGA Selects IQM and Telefónica to Deploy Advanced Quantum Computing Infrastructure

 SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA, Spain -

IQM will deliver two full-stack quantum computers: a 54-qubits IQM Radiance system and a 5-qubit IQM Spark by June 2026.

The systems will support research, skills development, and industrial access to quantum computers across multiple sectors.

This will be the first installation of IQM quantum computers in Spain.

 

(BUSINESS WIRE)--IQM Quantum Computers, the global leader in deployed, on-premises computers, and Telefónica, a global telecommunications provider, have joined forces to sign a purchase agreement with the Galician Supercomputing Center (CESGA) to install two full-stack quantum computers in Spain.

Under the agreement, IQM will deliver and install a 54-qubit IQM Radiance, designed for integration into high-performance computing centres, together with a 5-qubit IQM Spark system dedicated to education. The systems are scheduled for delivery by June 2026.

The deployment will expand CESGA’s advanced computing capabilities and strengthen its role as a key national and European research infrastructure.

The systems will be used by the scientific community and made accessible to leading companies across multiple industrial and research sectors, enabling experimentation with hybrid workflows that combine quantum computing, artificial intelligence, and high-performance computing.

This will be the first installation of IQM quantum computers in Spain, positioning CESGA alongside leading European centres such as the Leibniz Supercomputing Centre (LRZ) and Jülich in Germany, CSC in Finland, and CINECA in Italy, which are integrating quantum systems into national HPC environments.

The systems will be complemented by a new supercomputer, the Finisterrae IV, which will provide additional computing power to meet needs in artificial intelligence, among others, and a data storage system that will make it possible to permanently house large amounts of data and provide more advanced data services.

“Delivering production-grade quantum infrastructure into real HPC environments is central to IQM’s mission,” said Sylwia Barthel de Weydenthal, Chief Commercial Officer of IQM Quantum Computers. “By deploying our systems at CESGA, we are supporting the development of a practical quantum ecosystem in Spain and enabling researchers and industry users to begin meaningful experimentation with hybrid quantum-classical computing.”

“Quantum computing will become an important pillar of future digital infrastructure,” said Sergio Sánchez, CTIO Telefónica España. “Through this collaboration with IQM and CESGA, Telefónica is helping bring advanced computing capabilities closer to researchers and enterprises, while supporting Spain’s position in next-generation technologies.”

About IQM Quantum Computers

IQM Quantum Computers is a global leader in the deployment of superconducting quantum computing systems, delivering full-stack, on-premises quantum infrastructure designed to integrate into advanced computing environments. IQM works with high-performance computing centers, research institutions, universities, and enterprises, providing access to both quantum hardware and software. Headquartered in Finland, IQM employs more than 300 people and operates globally, with teams in France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Poland, Spain, Singapore, South Korea, and the United States. For more information, visit www.meetiqm.com.

About Telefónica:

Telefónica is one of the world’s leading telecommunications service providers. The company offers fixed and mobile connectivity as well as a wide range of digital services for residential and business customers. With over 350 million customers, Telefónica operates in Europe and Latin America. Telefónica is listed on the Spanish stock market, New York and Lima.

 

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Contacts

Media contact:

press@meetiqm.com

+358 50 479 0845

www.meetiqm.com

 

Sharjah Achieves Outstanding Success in the UAE 54th Eid Al Etihad (Union Day) Celebrations

  The 54th Eid Al Etihad (Union Day) celebrations in the Emirate of Sharjah showcased a successful model for a national event with a global cultural dimension. These celebrations extended beyond local boundaries to convey shared humanitarian messages while highlighting the UAE’s commitment to balancing its rich cultural heritage with ongoing development and innovation.

From November 19 to December 2, the festivities included over 250 diverse activities and attracted approximately 233,000 participants, including citizens, residents, and visitors from around the world. Each region presented programs that reflected its unique cultural identity within a comprehensive national framework.

In his remarks, H.E. Khalid Jasim Al Midfa, Chairman of the Sharjah Committee for Eid Al Etihad (Union Day) Celebrations, praised the strong public engagement during the events. He emphasized that this turnout reflects the success of the celebrations in meeting their objectives. Al Midfa expressed pride in the participation of citizens, residents, and visitors from around the world, highlighting that the celebrations took place in a safe environment that embodies the UAE’s values of peace and openness.

He added that these celebrations helped create positive impressions and memorable experiences for visitors about the Emirate of Sharjah and the UAE as a global destination that celebrates cultural diversity and welcomes all cultures.

The events included celebratory parades, interactive educational workshops, and heritage exhibitions. Additionally, there were technology innovation platforms featuring robotic displays and smart experiences presented by Emirati youth. Contemporary light shows conveyed global humanitarian messages promoting peaceful coexistence and cultural diversity, which are the foundations of the Union. The program also included musical performances and folk arts that showcased the richness of the Emirati cultural scene.

The celebrations emphasized environmental sustainability through the use of eco-friendly materials and awareness workshops. Interactive spaces were provided to showcase traditional crafts and Emirati arts. This comprehensive experience effectively combined authenticity and modernity, enhancing cultural interaction among the diverse nationalities participating.

The Eid Al Etihad (Union Day) celebrations saw significant participation from families, diverse segments of society, government entities, and cultural institutions. This turnout reflects strong community cohesion, a spirit of collaboration, and the national and humanitarian values that support the Union.

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https://www.aetoswire.com/en/news/1612202551787

Contacts

Mai Abdelmajeed

MAbdelmajeed@global-advisors.com

Spain’s CESGA Selects IQM and Telefónica to Deploy Advanced Quantum Computing Infrastructure

 SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA, Spain -

IQM will deliver two full-stack quantum computers: a 54-qubits IQM Radiance system and a 5-qubit IQM Spark by June 2026.

The systems will support research, skills development, and industrial access to quantum computers across multiple sectors.

This will be the first installation of IQM quantum computers in Spain.

 

(BUSINESS WIRE)--IQM Quantum Computers, the global leader in deployed, on-premises computers, and Telefónica, a global telecommunications provider, have joined forces to sign a purchase agreement with the Galician Supercomputing Center (CESGA) to install two full-stack quantum computers in Spain.

Under the agreement, IQM will deliver and install a 54-qubit IQM Radiance, designed for integration into high-performance computing centres, together with a 5-qubit IQM Spark system dedicated to education. The systems are scheduled for delivery by June 2026.

The deployment will expand CESGA’s advanced computing capabilities and strengthen its role as a key national and European research infrastructure.

The systems will be used by the scientific community and made accessible to leading companies across multiple industrial and research sectors, enabling experimentation with hybrid workflows that combine quantum computing, artificial intelligence, and high-performance computing.

This will be the first installation of IQM quantum computers in Spain, positioning CESGA alongside leading European centres such as the Leibniz Supercomputing Centre (LRZ) and Jülich in Germany, CSC in Finland, and CINECA in Italy, which are integrating quantum systems into national HPC environments.

The systems will be complemented by a new supercomputer, the Finisterrae IV, which will provide additional computing power to meet needs in artificial intelligence, among others, and a data storage system that will make it possible to permanently house large amounts of data and provide more advanced data services.

“Delivering production-grade quantum infrastructure into real HPC environments is central to IQM’s mission,” said Sylwia Barthel de Weydenthal, Chief Commercial Officer of IQM Quantum Computers. “By deploying our systems at CESGA, we are supporting the development of a practical quantum ecosystem in Spain and enabling researchers and industry users to begin meaningful experimentation with hybrid quantum-classical computing.”

“Quantum computing will become an important pillar of future digital infrastructure,” said Sergio Sánchez, CTIO Telefónica España. “Through this collaboration with IQM and CESGA, Telefónica is helping bring advanced computing capabilities closer to researchers and enterprises, while supporting Spain’s position in next-generation technologies.”

About IQM Quantum Computers

IQM Quantum Computers is a global leader in the deployment of superconducting quantum computing systems, delivering full-stack, on-premises quantum infrastructure designed to integrate into advanced computing environments. IQM works with high-performance computing centers, research institutions, universities, and enterprises, providing access to both quantum hardware and software. Headquartered in Finland, IQM employs more than 300 people and operates globally, with teams in France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Poland, Spain, Singapore, South Korea, and the United States. For more information, visit www.meetiqm.com.

About Telefónica:

Telefónica is one of the world’s leading telecommunications service providers. The company offers fixed and mobile connectivity as well as a wide range of digital services for residential and business customers. With over 350 million customers, Telefónica operates in Europe and Latin America. Telefónica is listed on the Spanish stock market, New York and Lima.

 

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Contacts

Media contact:

press@meetiqm.com

+358 50 479 0845

www.meetiqm.com

Comera Financial Holdings, Part of Abu Dhabi’s Royal Group, and SC Ventures Announce Strategic Collaboration to Explore Innovation in SME and beyond

 Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates - Tuesday, 23. December 2025 AETOSWire Print

Collaboration aims to co-create data-driven financial solutions, expand access to SME financing, and accelerate corporate innovation across the UAE’s evolving economic landscape.

Comera Financial Holdings, part of Abu Dhabi’s Royal Group, and SC Ventures, signed an MoU announcing a strategic collaboration to jointly explore new opportunities designed to strengthen the SME segment. The initiative reflects a shared vision to advance technology-driven financial solutions that align with the UAE’s economic priorities and support sustainable development across key sectors.

Through this collaboration, Comera Financial Holdings and SCV have outlined several areas where their combined expertise can create significant value for businesses. A major focus will be on financial solutions tailored for corporates with extensive SME networks. These may include innovations in Supply Chain Finance, working capital optimisation, and sector-specific financing frameworks. By combining Comera’s expanding fintech platforms with SC Ventures’ expertise in venture-building and credit intelligence, both organisations aim to deliver solutions that strengthen business resilience and accelerate market competitiveness.

The organisations will also explore broader strategic partnership opportunities, including potential investment, co-creation of new financial models, and deeper coordination across select business initiatives. This approach is intended to drive innovation, encourage aligned growth, and support the delivery of comprehensive financial solutions at scale.

Akhtar Saeed Hashmi, Managing Director & Group CEO of Comera Financial Holdings, stated:

“This collaboration marks an important step in our mission to build forward-looking financial infrastructure for the UAE. By working with SC Ventures, we aim to introduce innovative, digitally powered financing models that support the growth ambitions of SMEs and large corporates alike.”

Alex Manson, CEO of Standard Chartered Ventures, commented: “At SC Ventures we build businesses that solve real problems. Partnering with Comera allows us to co-create digital infrastructure that gives SMEs the tools, insights and access they need to thrive in an innovation-led economy”.

Comera Financial Holdings and SC Ventures will continue evaluating the identified opportunities with the goal of establishing a long-term collaboration. Further updates will be shared as progress develops.

About SC Ventures

SC Ventures builds and invests in breakthrough ventures in and beyond banking. SC Ventures by Standard Chartered provides a platform for organisations to collaborate and co-create fintech ecosystems to reimagine the future of finance.

For more information, please visit www.scventures.io and follow SC Ventures on LinkedIn.

About Comera Financial Holdings

Comera Financial Holdings, part of Abu Dhabi’s Royal Group, is a diversified fintech and financial services group offering integrated solutions across payments, lending, supply chain finance, and digital financial infrastructure, enabling seamless, compliant, and scalable financial experiences for consumers, SMEs, and corporates across the UAE and beyond.

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Contacts

For Media Inquiry – Ajit Johnson

media@comerafinancialholdings.com

Modon Holding forms joint venture with Related Companies and Panepinto Properties to deliver Harborside 4, a luxury residential tower along the waterfront in the heart of downtown Jersey City

 

Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates – 22 December 2025: Modon Holding PSC (“Modon”) today announced a new joint venture to deliver Harborside 4, a 54-story residential tower on one of the last prime waterfront sites in downtown Jersey City, New Jersey, USA. Modon will hold a majority equity stake alongside leading US developer Related Companies and long-established Jersey City firm Panepinto Properties (the “Joint Venture”), marking a further milestone in the Group’s strategy to scale its diversified global portfolio.

 

Harborside 4, designed by Handel Architects, will bring 800 luxury rental apartments and condominiums to downtown Jersey City, with the building offering unobstructed views of the Manhattan skyline and premium lifestyle and hospitality amenities including a marquee fitness club and concierge services. The site is minutes from Manhattan via PATH cross-Hudson rail services and ferry connections, with retail, dining and community amenities on the doorstep, including a Whole Foods market across the street. The development scheme will feature approximately 75% of residential apartments being retained for rentals generating stable recurring income, with the remaining approximately 25% being marketed as condos for sale. Construction is set to begin in Q1 2026, with completion targeted in Q1 2029.

 

The joint venture will jointly oversee the development of the scheme, with Related leading development and construction management, leasing and operations. Related contributes more than 50 years of integrated development and management expertise, with $70 billion in assets under management and over $20 billion in construction delivered over the past decade. Panepinto Properties, which has delivered more than 17 million square feet of development in Jersey City since 1977, brings deep local knowledge and a long-standing commitment to the community in Jersey City. A consortium of banks led by J.P. Morgan will provide construction financing for the development scheme.

 

H.E. Jassem Mohamed Bu Ataba Al Zaabi, Chairman of Modon Holding, said: “Harborside 4 is a natural progression in Modon’s global expansion, reflecting our commitment to investing in high-potential assets that create long-term value. Partnering with Related and Panepinto brings together institutions with the expertise and ambition to help shape vibrant, future-ready communities, and reinforces Modon’s position as a trusted international investment partner. This venture strengthens our international portfolio, supports our diversification strategy, and underscores Modon’s vision to develop high-quality urban destinations in key global markets.”

 

Bill O’Regan, Group CEO of Modon Holding, said: “Harborside 4 aligns strongly with our international growth strategy, combining a prime development opportunity with a structured delivery plan and partners with deep capability and Modon’s goal to enhance its long-term recurring income. Related’s operational strength and Panepinto’s local knowledge create a platform engineered for design excellence and disciplined execution. We will work hand-in-hand with Related and Panepinto to oversee all critical phases of the development, contributing to Harborside becoming a well-run, high-performing community over the long term. This investment reinforces our vision to build and enhance the resilience of our diversified global portfolio.”

 

Bruce A. Beal, Jr, President of Related Companies, said: “We are pleased to be partnering with the team at Modon Holding to bring this exciting project to life. With an unmatched location just minutes from Manhattan in fast-growing Jersey City, Harborside 4 represents an exceptional opportunity to develop beautiful waterfront homes for discerning residents alongside partners and investors who share our vision of creating dynamic urban living environments.”

 

Joseph Panepinto, Sr., Founder and CEO of Panepinto Properties, said: “Acquiring Harborside 4 strengthens our role in the ongoing redevelopment of Jersey City’s waterfront and beyond. An area that once served industrial uses has been steadily emerging as a premier, contemporary, residential, and commercial destination creating jobs and income for all residents of the city. This property aligns with that broader vision. We remain committed to supporting the city’s continued growth across its various districts.”

 

Headquartered in Abu Dhabi and listed on the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX), Modon operates across diverse business sectors including real estate, hospitality, asset management, investments, events, and tourism. Modon’s international property portfolio includes a 50% joint venture to deliver the 2 Finsbury Avenue office towers in London, in partnership with British Land and GIC; acquisition of La Zagaleta in Spain, one of the most exclusive and luxurious residential golf estates in Europe; and a strategic investment in the Wellington International equestrian showgrounds in Palm Beach County, Florida. Other assets include hotels and resorts in five countries across three continents, sports and leisure facilities, and landmark global events and exhibition venues including ADNEC Centre in Abu Dhabi and ExCel London.

 

About Modon:

 

Modon is an international holding company, headquartered in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, and listed on the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX). We are at the forefront of urban innovation, creating iconic designs and experiences that continually surpass expectations. Our primary business sectors include real estate, hospitality, asset management, investments, events, and tourism. Our goal is to deliver long-term, sustainable value, laying the foundations for intelligent, connected living.

 

About Related Companies

Related Companies is a global real estate and lifestyle company defined by innovation and the most prominent privately-owned real estate firm in the United States. Formed over 50 years ago, Related is one of the largest private owners and preservationists of affordable housing in the U.S. and a fully integrated, highly diversified industry leader with experience in virtually every aspect of development, acquisition, management, finance, marketing, and sales. Headquartered in New York City, Related has offices and major developments in Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Texas, Washington, D.C., and London and boasts a team of approximately 4,000 professionals. With over $70 billion in assets owned or under development including the 28-acre Hudson Yards neighborhood on Manhattan’s West Side, Deutsche Bank Center at Columbus Circle and The 78 in Chicago. Related was named to Fast Company Magazine’s list of the 50 Most Innovative Companies in the World. For more information about Related, please visit www.related.com.

 

About Panepinto

 

Panepinto Properties has been a market leader and innovator in Jersey City real estate development since 1977, engaging in innovative real estate projects nationally and internationally with a focus on design and infrastructure development, long-term property and asset management and contemporary fine art services for residential, office and hotel projects. As an independently owned and operated company, Panepinto Properties works closely with financial institutions, city and state agencies, engineers, architects, designers and artists to ensure each project is unique and successful while transforming and energizing neighborhoods to create value for the local community.

 

*Source: AETOSWire

 

For further information, please contact:

 

Salma El Baghdadi

press@modon.com

ir@modon.com

www.modon.com

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HARMAN to Acquire ZF’s ADAS Business

 STAMFORD, Conn. - Tuesday, 23. December 2025

Secures HARMAN’s strategic foundations in ADAS and centralized automotive electronics platforms to define the fast-growing SDV market

 

(BUSINESS WIRE)--HARMAN International, a global leader in automotive technology and lifestyle audio, and a wholly-owned subsidiary of Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd., today announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire the Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) business of ZF Group, comprising leading automotive compute solutions, smart cameras, radars and ADAS software functions. The transaction is valued at €1.5 billion.

A Strategic Step toward an Integrated, Centralized Vehicle Architecture

HARMAN’s “Consumer Experiences. Automotive Grade.” strategy focuses on bringing the speed, intelligence, and intuitive experiences consumers expect from leading technology brands into vehicles, while also meeting the highest standards for automotive safety, reliability, and long-term platform support. As automakers accelerate toward software-defined vehicles (SDV), this approach enables experiences that seamlessly connect safety and assisted driving functions with comfort, connectivity, and in-vehicle intelligence. With this acquisition, HARMAN has secured strategic inroads in the ADAS and central compute platforms markets, reinforcing a foundation that anchors and advances its role in the fast-growing SDV market.

By integrating ZF’s ADAS capabilities with HARMAN's flagship Digital Cockpit offerings within a centralized compute design, the acquisition bolsters HARMAN’s roadmap for next-generation vehicle architectures. The combination creates a foundation for future central compute solutions that bring assisted and automated driving solutions, safety and user experiences on a shared platform. This approach streamlines system design, reduces integration complexity, and supports more efficient innovation cycles, allowing HARMAN to enable OEMs to scale differentiated, context-aware vehicle experiences.

“The industry is at an inflection point where safety, intelligence, and in-cabin experience must come together through a unified computing architecture,” said Christian Sobottka, Chief Executive Officer and President, Automotive Division, HARMAN. “With this agreement, we take a strategic step to expand our portfolio with complementary ADAS capabilities that unlock a new class of cross-domain experiences ranging from perception-informed audio cues to more personalized, situation-aware driving. Combined with HARMAN’s long-standing automotive expertise and supported by Samsung’s broader technology leadership, this positions us to help OEMs design the next generation of intelligent, empathetic, and connected vehicles.”

“With HARMAN, we have found the ideal partner to fully unlock the growth and innovation potential of our ADAS business,” said Mathias Miedreich, CEO of ZF Group. “At the same time, this deal makes an important contribution to reducing our company’s debt and allows us to focus our resources on the core technologies in which ZF is a global leader.”

“Samsung has a successful record of strategic acquisitions that accelerate innovation and expand what’s possible for our customers,” said Young Sohn, Chairman of the Board of Directors, HARMAN and Senior Advisor, Samsung Electronics. “Since acquiring HARMAN in 2017, the company has scaled its automotive and audio business from $7 billion to more than $11 billion today. Adding ZF’s ADAS capabilities builds on that momentum. HARMAN will further expand its technology foundation to deliver safer, more intelligent, and more intuitive in-vehicle experiences. This acquisition reinforces HARMAN’s leadership in the industry’s transformation and underscores Samsung’s long term commitment to the future of mobility.”

“This transaction marks a major milestone in the execution of HARMAN’s long-term strategy and further strengthens our portfolio,” said Carolin Reichert, Chief Strategy Officer of HARMAN. “Throughout the process, we worked in a very constructive collaboration with ZF and demonstrated our ability to successfully execute a highly complex carve-out.”

As part of the agreement, approximately 3,750 ZF employees across Europe, the Americas and Asia are expected to transition to HARMAN upon closing of the transaction. The transaction is expected to close in the second half of 2026, subject to receiving necessary regulatory approvals.

Upon closing, HARMAN will integrate ZF’s ADAS capabilities into its centralized compute and digital cockpit roadmap, enabling OEMs to deploy more scalable, safety-integrated vehicle architectures. The companies will maintain strong support for existing programs while aligning engineering, ADAS and compute teams to accelerate innovation for next-generation platforms.

About HARMAN

HARMAN is a global leader in Lifestyle Audio and Automotive technology. We create intelligent experiences that enrich people’s lives on the road, in their homes, on the stage, and everywhere in between. Our iconic audio brands — including JBL®, Harman Kardon®, AKG®, Bowers & Wilkins®, Denon®, and Marantz® — bring premium sound to consumers and audio/visual professionals worldwide. More than 50 million vehicles globally rely on HARMAN’s technologies to deliver safer, smarter, and more intuitive in-cabin experiences. A wholly owned subsidiary of Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd., HARMAN has approximately 26,000 employees around the world.

About ZF

ZF is a global technology company supplying advanced mobility products and systems for passenger cars, commercial vehicles and industrial technology. Its comprehensive product range is primarily aimed at vehicle manufacturers, mobility providers and start-up companies in the fields of transportation and mobility. ZF electrifies a wide range of vehicle types. With its products, the company contributes to reducing emissions, protecting the climate as well as enhancing safe mobility. Alongside the automotive sector – passenger cars and commercial vehicles – ZF also serves market segments such as construction and agricultural machinery, wind power, marine propulsion, rail drives and test systems. With some 161,600 employees worldwide, ZF reported sales of €41.4 billion in fiscal 2024. The company operates 161 production locations in 30 countries.

 

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Contacts

Media:

HARMAN

Dawn Geary

Director, Global Communications, Automotive

dawn.geary@harman.com

ZF Group

Mirko Gutemann

Spokesman Corporate R&D, ADAS/AD Technology, Safety Technology

mirko.gutemann@zf.com

Axelspace Signing Agreement on a Multi-Launch Arrangement and the Launch of New Satellites with Exolaunch

 TOKYO - Monday, 22. December 2025 AETOSWire Print

(BUSINESS WIRE) -- Axelspace Corporation (“Axelspace”), a leading microsatellite company committed to making “Space within Your Reach,” is pleased to announce a multi-launch agreement (MLA) with Exolaunch, a global launch integrator and leader in launch mission management, satellite integration and satellite deployment technologies.

The Multi-Launch Agreement will accelerate the growth of Axelspace. In particular, one satellite scheduled for launch under the new Agreement will be used in the AxelLiner business’s in-orbit demonstration service, “AxelLiner Laboratory”. Exolaunch has already secured launches for eight (8) Axelspace’s satellites on the upcoming missions.

Axelspace provides AxelLiner Laboratory (AL Lab), a new service originating from the AxelLiner business that is specialized in in-orbit demonstration of space components.

Nonetheless, conducting in-orbit demonstrations in a short period of time is known to be a significant challenge due to the inconsistent opportunities provided for in-orbit demonstration missions and its lengthy process from selection to launch, often taking up to several years.

Against this backdrop, space policies promoted by government bodies—including the Space Strategic Fund—position the establishment of a domestic satellite supply chain as a key priority. As a result, demand is growing for timely in-orbit demonstrations of innovative satellite components originating in Japan.

To overcome these existing challenges involved in in-orbit demonstrations, Axelspace has developed a service tailored to such special needs by leveraging the short development time and mass-production capabilities realized by AxelLiner.

In providing AL Lab services, we recognize that, amid the recent global increase in demand for satellite launches, securing launch opportunities that can flexibly accommodate desired schedules and orbits is a critical risk with a high potential impact on service execution.

“Axelspace is a trailblazer in Japan’s space industry, and we are proud to support their ongoing satellite launch program through this new Multi-Launch Agreement,” said Kier Fortier, Vice President of Global Business Development at Exolaunch. “With our global footprint, including Exolaunch Japan, and extensive flight heritage in delivering small satellites safely to orbit, we look forward to providing Axelspace with reliable global launch access and deep launch mission management expertise to support efficient, quick deployment of Axelspace’s satellite constellation.”

The full press release is available here: https://www.axelspace.com/news/multi_launch_agreement_with_exolaunch/

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20251219038364/en/

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Axelspace Holdings Corporation

E-mail: pr@axelspace.com

Axelspace: Notice of Signing a Service contract for In-Orbit Demonstration with Pale Blue, Inc.

 (BUSINESS WIRE)--Axelspace Corporation (“Axelspace”), a leading microsatellite company committed to making “Space within Your Reach,” has entered into a service agreement with Pale Blue Inc. (“Pale Blue”), a company that develops, manufactures, and sells thrusters (engines) for small satellites, for an in-orbit demonstration, as detailed below.

Axelspace provides AxelLiner Laboratory (AL Lab), a new service originating from the AxelLiner business that is specialized in in-orbit demonstration of space components.

Under this contract, an in-orbit demonstration of a fast-start Hall thruster developed by Pale Blue is scheduled to be conducted in 2027.

Nonetheless, conducting in-orbit demonstrations in a short period of time is known to be a significant challenge due to the inconsistent opportunities provided for in-orbit demonstration missions and its lengthy process from selection to launch, often taking up to several years.

Against this backdrop, space policies promoted by government bodies—including the Space Strategic Fund—position the establishment of a domestic satellite supply chain as a key priority. As a result, demand is growing for timely in-orbit demonstrations of innovative satellite components originating in Japan.

To overcome these existing challenges involved in in-orbit demonstrations, Axelspace has developed a service tailored to such special needs by leveraging the short development time and mass-production capabilities realized by AxelLiner.

Jun Asakawa, Co-Founder and CEO of Pale Blue, commented;

We are deeply honored to have signed a demonstration contract with Axelspace for the 2027 in-orbit demonstration of our compact Hall thruster, “PBH-100.” We will validate the product’s key features—high thrust, high specific impulse, and rapid startup performance—in space. Through this demonstration, we aim to further deepen the strong partnership we have built with Axelspace through the development and manufacturing of propulsion systems, and contribute to the expansion of the small satellite market.

https://pale-blue.co.jp/

Yuya Nakamura, President and CEO, Axelspace Corporation, commented;

We are delighted to announce our agreement with Pale Blue to perform the critical in-orbit demonstration of their compact Hall thruster, executing this technology validation utilizing our proprietary AxelLiner Laboratory platform. By facilitating the rapid path to orbit and offering our extensive expertise—derived from our own experience as a satellite component user—we are actively supporting Pale Blue’s efforts to accelerate their global business expansion.

The full press release is available here: https://www.axelspace.com/news/paleblue/

 

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20251219321165/en/

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Media Contact

Axelspace Holdings Corporation

E-mail: pr@axelspace.com