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Cognitive Code shows off SILVIA artificial intelligence platform
Cognitive Code looks to be taking full advantage of the TechCrunch40 conference to show off its SILVIA artificial intelligence platform, which it calls a "fundamental conceptual breakthrough in artificial intelligence." Apparently, the platform allows for the "development and deployment of intelligent applications to almost any platform" (which we can only hope includes robots), allowing for human interaction in "completely natural and intuitive ways." What's more, it looks like the system should be relatively easy to implement (at least in AI terms), with a complete set of GUI tools available for "developing intelligent entities," and an array of scripting APIs at developers' disposal to embed SILVIA in their applications. If that's not enough, Cognitive Code is also apparently hard at work on a portable version of SILVIA for PDAs and smartphones, with it apparently set for release in late 2008.
Ponoko now live to make, market your gizmo
We've seen startups galore founded on strokes of brilliance, and Ponoko seems to be well on its way to building a sufficient client base. Getting a share of the limelight at TechCrunch40, this website enables engineering minds with limited resources to upload designs and select materials for Ponoko to construct, after which the product gets displayed in the online showroom for people to sneak a peek at and potentially purchase. Additionally, Ponoko will even "make the product and deliver it directly to the customer" or send it straight to you for final assembly, making sure all parties get their splits. For those with a widget in mind (but a day job to tend to), head on over to Ponoko and get things a-movin'.
Cubic Telecom hopes to make global roaming reasonable
Employing a variety of creative techniques, Ireland's Cubic Telecom is looking to take the bank-breaking sting out of carrying your phone abroad. Announced at TechCrunch40 today, the centerpiece of Cubic's strategy is its "virtual PBX" -- up to 50 local numbers of the user's choosing can be linked to a single SIM, making it affordable for callers to get in touch no matter where they may be. Also invloved is the "MAXroam" SIM itself -- toting aggressively discounted roaming rates that are the "result of years of negotiations with GSM carriers around the world" -- designed to be used everywhere a subscriber may be. Finally, Cubic is taking a hybrid GSM / WiFi approach; its handsets will support both traditional calls and VoIP services, with all VoIP calls on its own network coming free of charge. The MAXroam SIM card will be available separately for $40 starting September 24 or you'll be able to get it with one of the company's own handsets, a basic model for $135 (pictured) and a Windows Mobile device for $219; both phones launch October 1 with a MAXroam card included along with $8 in calling credit.
