Accor has launched the full-scale rollout of ALL Concierge, an artificial intelligence companion designed to assist guests through every stage of their travel experience. Operating across native platforms and messaging services like WhatsApp and iMessage, the system provides instant, personalised recommendations and booking management. Alongside the guest platform, Accor is equipping staff with The Butler, an internal AI assistant created to streamline operational tasks.
Autonomous Solutions, Inc. (ASI) has partnered with SoftBank Group to form a new joint venture aiming to scale autonomous construction equipment for major infrastructure developments. Supported by SoftBank's financial backing alongside a separate $225 million direct investment, the venture will accelerate the commercialisation of hardware and software solutions that allow mixed fleets of heavy machinery from various manufacturers to operate autonomously across complex job sites.
Swiss company Aphy AG has unveiled an agentic artificial intelligence platform designed to automate time-consuming back-office tasks for independent hoteliers. Running around the clock, the system connects directly to property management systems, channel managers and shared inboxes to handle cross-checking, payment verification, OTA commission reconciliation and guest email inquiries.
PropTech firm Venn has acquired AI leasing platform Zuma for $50 million, integrating its artificial intelligence tools into Venn’s "Company Brain" system. The deal brings Zuma’s engineering team and key executives into Venn. Shiv Gettu joins as Chief Partnerships Officer, while Kendrick Bradley becomes General Manager of Venn Leasing. The combined team will expand bespoke AI applications across collections, renewals, and resident support in multifamily operations.
Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund has established Tawrid Company for Financing Solutions, a digital platform aimed at boosting supply-chain financing across the Kingdom. Authorised by the Saudi Central Bank, Tawrid connects buyers, suppliers and financial institutions to enhance corporate liquidity and working capital. The company has already entered binding agreements with major local lenders and firms, including Saudi National Bank and ROSHN Group.
A consortium comprising A&O TEC, Prior+Partners, ZHA, Homa, Buro Happold, Systematica and Fichtner has presented the Benghazi 2050: Next Generation City Plan. The scheme introduces a Spatial Strategy alongside a Digital Planning Hub, combining 3D urban models, GIS data and environmental metrics. Designed as an adaptable framework, the project aims to guide sustainable expansion, reconnect the historic coastal city with its waterfront and coordinate infrastructure investments through to 2050.
