Israel Active

Smokers in the US, Canada, France, Israel and Turkey are trialing a “quit smoking” app called SmokeBeat from Israel’s Somatix. It detects smoking from hand-to-mouth gestures picked up by sensors built into smartwatches and wristbands and provides analysis and support via your smartphone.

I reported previously about TIPA’s 100% bio-degradable packaging startup founded by two Israeli mothers. TIPA is now available in the USA, UK, France and Netherlands. TIPA has won three global awards and has just raised $11 million of funds.

I reported previously on Israel’s Vayyar which develops amazing 3D imaging sensors. (Just see some of the youtubes below). Vayyar is now partnering with Japan’s Softbank to develop AI (artificial intelligence)-based IoT products for the Japanese market, with a focus on public transportation, construction, and elderly care.

South Korean electronics giant LG Electronics has selected Israeli gesture recognition company eyeSight Mobile Technologies as a supplier of control systems for its car information and entertainment systems. The co-developed product will decrease distracted driving.

I reported previously on Israel’s Chakratec and its flywheel battery technology. Chakratec recently won the award for Electric Mobility & Autonomous Driving, Energy Storage category, held at the eMove360° Europe 2017 international trade fair for Mobility in Munich.

Israel’s SodaStream has been recognized as a 2017 Sustainability Award Product winner by the Business Intelligence Group for its line of eco-friendly sparkling water makers. Studies show that SodaStream owners save an average of 550 plastic bottles each year.

Jerusalem City Council has approved a new municipal “reduced emission area” bylaw that restricts the entry of heavy and polluting vehicles into the city center. Cameras and a computer system will analyze the details of entering vehicles, according to the vehicle’s license plate.

Israeli scientists Oded Rechavi (Tel Aviv U), Charles Diesendruck and Anat Levin (both Technion) have won $100,000 Blavatnik Awards, which recognizes exceptional scientists and engineers aged 42 or younger. The awards are administered by the New York Academy of Sciences.

Seven Israeli companies appear the latest prestige AI (Artificial Intelligence) 100 list compiled by San Francisco-based CB Insights. They are Applitools (new to VGNI - see links), Cybereason, Dynamic Yield (new to VGNI - see links), OrCam, Prospera, Twiggle and Workey.    

I wrote previously about Jerusalem building its largest, deepest train station. It’s progressing well. And the link to Tel Aviv is almost on track!