INDIA: Honeywell (Nasdaq: HON) today announced that it is working to develop an artificial intelligence (AI)-enabled Multi-Modal Intelligent Agent for Honeywell mobile devices powered by Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. The agent will allow workers and customers in the distribution center and retail industries to interact naturally with their handheld devices through voice, pictures, and barcodes.

This AI-powered solution is built to function as a digital resource for the modern labor force and is designed to enable today’s stretched workforce to quickly tap into answers and outcomes, helping result in time savings, greater accuracy, and interactive results. The design and development of the Multi-Modal Intelligent Agent also supports Honeywell’s alignment of its portfolio to three compelling megatrends, including automation.

Workers will be able to enter data into the technology and then receive practical answers to queries like, “Do we have the gluten-free variant of this product in stock?” or “Where can I find this particular item in the store?” Depending on the question, users will receive responses in the form of an image, video, spoken response, text answer, or a combination of several modalities. This functionality is designed to enable workers to more efficiently complete their work while simultaneously navigating other ongoing tasks, such as assisting customers in a retail setting or performing multi-step workflows in a distribution center. The solution will be available to users through a software development kit that can integrate with an organization’s existing applications and systems.

“Utilizing our strengths in on-device generative AI, high-performance and low power computing, this collaboration with Honeywell underscores our commitment to pioneering innovative solutions that will propel the expansion of the connected intelligent edge,” said Nakul Duggal, group general manager, of automotive, industrial and embedded IoT, and cloud computing, Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. “Honeywell’s new Multi-Modal Intelligent Agent represents a significant step forward in utilizing advanced edge AI to streamline operations and elevate customer interactions across industries. This initiative enables us to drive digital transformation, enhancing how businesses interact with their environments through intelligent and responsive technology.”

“By pairing Honeywell’s easy-to-use mobile devices and intelligent software with Qualcomm Technologies’ industry-leading edge AI processors, Honeywell is creating solutions to make workers’ jobs easier while also helping businesses produce the stellar experience they want for their customers,” said Jason Urso, Honeywell Industrial Automation chief technology officer. “With AI, Honeywell is amplifying what’s possible for businesses with mobile workers today.”

The Multi-Modal Intelligent Agent is expected to be available in early 2025. To learn more about how Honeywell is leveraging AI across key industries, visit: https://automation.honeywell.com/us/en/solutions/productivity.

The post How Honeywell and Qualcomm Are Shaping the Future of AI-Enabled Agents appeared first on NRI News.

KEY POINTS

• The ProArt PZ13 impresses with its ultra-lightweight design at just 0.85 kg and 9mm thin, complemented by a detachable keyboard for versatile functionality.
• Both the ProArt PZ13 and Vivobook S 15 OLED are powered by the latest Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite and X Plus processors, delivering top-tier performance.
• Enjoy vibrant visuals on the 3K ASUS Lumina OLED displays and experience ultra-fast connectivity with Wi-Fi 7.
• Built to last with military-grade durability and equipped with a robust 70Wh battery for uninterrupted use throughout the day.

INDIA: ASUS, the Taiwanese tech giant announced the expansion of its Qualcomm laptop offerings with two new laptops, the ProArt PZ13 and Vivobook S 15 OLED, equipped with the latest Snapdragon X Plus processors. The first ASUS Copilot+ PC with the latest Snapdragon X Elite Processor, the Vivobook S 15 OLED pushes the limits of computing in a powerful, smart, and efficient form factor. On the other hand, the ProArt PZ13 is ideal to create anywhere owing to its lightweight design and top-notch performance. With advanced AI-driven capabilities and stunning visuals, these laptops aim to meet the demands of today’s dynamic users, whether for intensive creative work, professional tasks, or entertainment.

Together, the ProArt PZ13 and Vivobook S 15 OLED exemplify ASUS’ commitment to delivering high-performance, portable, and durable laptops for discerning users. The  ProArt PZ13 will be available at the starting price of INR 1,39,990, while the Vivobook S 15 OLED will be available for sale starting at INR 1,04,990. These products will be accessible through both online and offline channels.

Commenting on the launch of the ProArt PZ13 and Vivobook S 15 OLED laptops, Arnold Su, Vice President, Consumer and Gaming PC, System Business Group, ASUS India, said, “At ASUS, our relentless drive is to advance technology and elevate the users’ digital experience. Our latest offerings –the ProArt PZ13 and Vivobook S 15 OLED embody this very vision. The power-packed ProArt PZ13 is a creator-focused device, that boasts an exceptional ASUS Lumina OLED display and state-of-the-art AI features like Copilot+ to boost productivity and creativity, all housed in a robust, durable design. Meanwhile, the Vivobook S 15 OLED, featuring Qualcomm Snapdragon processors and a premium display panel, seamlessly blends high performance with portability, perfect for both professional and personal settings. These innovations underscore our commitment to not just meeting but simultaneously surpassing our customers’ expectations.”

Enhance your creative process with the ProArt PZ13, powered by the Snapdragon® X Plus CPU with up to 45 TOPS NPU. This AI-driven PC unlocks Microsoft’s Copilot+ features, including Windows Studio Effects and Live Captions. ASUS’ StoryCube AI assists with digital asset management, while smart noise-cancellation software ensures clarity in communication. The ProArt PZ13 boasts a 16GB 8448MHz LPDDR5 memory and a 1TB SSD storage, offering seamless and lag-free performance. The robust 70Wh battery is capable of delivering multi-day power and Wi-Fi 7 keeps you connected wherever you go.

See brilliance with ASUS Lumina OLED

The ProArt PZ13 stands out with its 16:10 3K ASUS Lumina OLED touchscreen display, delivering Dolby Vision and Pantone cinema-grade color accuracy for spectacular visuals. The display’s rapid 0.2ms response time ensures smooth, fluid motion, while the ASUS Pen 2.0 Stylus is the perfect partner for creative tasks. For audio, three directional mics combined with Smart Amp technology, enhanced by Dolby Atmos, deliver crystal-clear sound, creating an immersive auditory experience.

Rugged and ready with IP52 durability

The ProArt PZ13 isn’t just a sleek device—it’s built to withstand tough conditions. With an IP52 rating, it is protected against dust and water, making it ready for any environment. Undergoing rigorous tests for vibration and high/low-temperature shocks, the PZ13 remains sturdy in a lightweight form at just 0.85 kg and just 9mm thick. Crafted from aluminum alloy with precision CNC machining, it balances durability and style. The detachable magnetic keyboard and cover stand add to the flexibility of everyday use, while the new ProArt logo and chamfered edges exude professional aesthetics. The Nano Black coating not only enhances its sleek appearance but also resists smudges and fingerprints.

Specifications:

Model	ProArt PZ13 (HT5306)
CPU	Qualcomm Snapdragon® X Plus 8-Core CPU with 45 TOPS NPU performance
Display	13.3” 16:10 2880 x 1800 @60Hz OLED display Up to 500-nits brightness, VESA DisplayHDR True Black 500, 100% DCI-P3 color gamut, Pantone validated
Memory	2 x USB 4 Type-C 1 x SD Express 7.0 full-sized card reader
Storage	1TB PCIe® Gen 4.0 NVMe M.2 SSD
I/O Ports	2 x USB 4 Type-C 1 x SD Express 7.0 full sized card reader
Webcam	5MP front camera with IR sensors for Windows Hello login 13MP rear camera
Wireless Connectivity	Wi-Fi 7(802.11be) (Tri-band)2*2 + Bluetooth® 5.4 Wireless Card (*Bluetooth® version may change with OS version different.)
Battery	70Wh 3-cell lithium-polymer battery
Adapter	TYPE-C, 65W AC Adapter, Output: 20V DC, 3.25A, 65W, Input: 100-240V AC 50/60Hz universal
Audio	Supports Dolby Atmos®, Smart Amp technology
Included in-the-box	New ProArt Backpack (supports up to 16-inch laptops), Micro SD adapter, Magnetic Stand, Detachable Keyboard, Stylus (ASUS Pen SA203H-MPP2.0 support)
Dimensions & Weight	297.5 x 202.9 x 9 mm 0.85 kg (Without Keyboard) 1.2 kg (With Keyboard)

Vivobook S 15 OLED

Experience the future with ASUS Copilot+ PC

The ASUS Vivobook S 15 OLED features the Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite and Snapdragon X Plus processors, along with Adreno-integrated graphics. This premium, thin design integrates AI capabilities through the Qualcomm Hexagon NPU, offering 45 TOPS. With 16GB LPDDR5X RAM at 8448 MHz and a 1TB PCIe 4.0 SSD, it’s built for performance. The all-metal design is both robust and elegant, highlighted by the new ASUS Vivobook logo. With a weight of just 1.42 kg and measuring 14.7mm thin, this PC combines power with portability. The ASUS ErgoSense keyboard design ensures comfortable typing, complete with a number pad and single-zone RGB lighting.

Breathtaking display design

The Vivobook S 15 OLED with an ASUS Lumina OLED display provides stunning visuals on a 15.6-inch 3K (2880 x 1620) 120Hz screen. The 16:9 aspect ratio is ideal for work and entertainment, with up to 600 nits peak brightness and VESA DisplayHDR True Black 600 certification, ensuring top-notch colour accuracy.

A treasure trove of premium features

Built to withstand the toughest conditions, the Vivobook S 15 OLED passes 26 rigorous MIL-STD 810H tests, ensuring military-grade durability. Its 70Wh battery provides over 18 hours of power, with USB Type-C fast charging. Connectivity is seamless with an array of ports like USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A, HDMI 2.1 TMDS, a MicroSD card reader, and USB 4 ports, supporting 4K display output, 40 GB/s data transfer, and fast charging. The ASUS Antimicrobial Guard keeps your device safe and clean, while Windows Hello with a 1080p Full HD 3DNR webcam offers easy, secure login. Experience enhanced audio with the Smart Amplifier, delivering 350% louder sound without distortion.

Specifications:

CPU	Qualcomm Snapdragon® X Elite Processor (12C) Qualcomm Snapdragon® X Plus Processor (8C)
Graphics	Qualcomm® Adreno GPU
NPU	Qualcomm® Hexagon NPU 45 TOPS
Display	15.6-inch, 3K (2880 x 1620) OLED 16:9 aspect ratio, 0.2ms response time, 120Hz refresh rate, 600nits HDR peak brightness, 100% DCI-P3 color gamut, 1,000,000:1, VESA CERTIFIED Display HDR True Black 600, 1.07 billion colors, Glossy display, 70% less harmful blue light, TÜV Rheinland-certified, SGS Eye Care Display
Operating system	Windows 11 Home with support for Copilot, Recall (to be available once Microsoft releases the feature), Live Captions, Cocreator apps
RAM	16 GB 8448 MHz LPDDR5X
Storage	Up to 1 TB PCIe® 4.0 NVMe® M.2 SSD
Connectivity	Wi-Fi 7(802.11be) (Tri-band)2*2 + Bluetooth® 5.4 Wireless Card
Camera	FHD IR camera with privacy shutter and Windows Hello supported
I/O ports	2 x USB4 Type-C® (supports 4K UHD external displays and up to 40 Gbps data transfers) 2 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A 1 x HDMI® 2.1 (TMDS) 1 x MicroSD card reader 1 x Audio jack
Keyboard & Touchpad	ASUS ErgoSense keyboard with dedicated Copilot key, customizable RGB backlight, noise reduction technology   129.7 x 84.8 mm ASUS ErgoSense touchpad with Smart Gesture
Audio	Harman Kardon-certified, Dolby Atmos® sound system Built-in array microphone
Battery	70 Wh with over 18 hours of battery life
Dimensions & Weight	352.6 x 226.9 x 14.7~15.9mm Approx. 1.42 kg

Price and availability:

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