Anoto Group AB (publ) has taken a significant leap forward in the digital handwriting space with the introduction of 'inq', a brand that promises to merge the tactile pleasure of writing on paper with the convenience and connectivity of digital technology. The new lineup includes smartpens, notebooks, and accessories, all designed to seamlessly integrate handwritten notes into the digital workflow. With AI-powered handwriting recognition, 'inq' aims to capture the nuances of handwriting, making notes searchable and shareable across devices.
The launch of 'inq' is supported by a USD 750,000 convertible loan agreement with two major shareholders, signaling strong confidence in the product's potential. The funds are earmarked for accelerating the manufacture, launch, and marketing of the 'INQ' digital pen and software platform. This financial backing underscores the market's readiness for innovative solutions that bridge the gap between analog and digital writing experiences.
Anoto's 'inq' smartpens are touted as the thinnest and most comfortable yet, offering a writing experience that doesn't compromise on style or functionality. The accompanying app not only digitizes notes with precision but also captures additional elements like pressure and color, enhancing the utility of handwritten notes in a digital context. This development represents a significant step forward in making handwriting relevant in an increasingly digital world.
With pre-orders now open in the US, 'inq' is poised to redefine how we think about handwriting in the digital age. The range of notebooks and accessories, designed for every user and budget, further emphasizes Anoto's commitment to sustainability and thoughtful design. As the line between paper and digital continues to blur, 'inq' stands at the forefront of this transformation, offering tools that cater to the needs of students, professionals, and creatives alike.
Kalmar, a leading provider of cargo-handling solutions, has successfully completed a significant refurbishment project in collaboration with Africa Global Logistics (AGL) at the Port of Abidjan in Ivory Coast. The project focused on the overhaul of two ship-to-shore (STS) cranes, a critical component of the terminal's operations. This initiative is part of Kalmar's Modernisation Services program, aimed at extending the lifespan and enhancing the performance of port equipment.
The scope of the project included the replacement of key components such as the forestay and pivot point bearings, trolley rails, short rails, and trolley and guide wheels. These upgrades are expected to significantly improve the cranes' efficiency and reliability, ensuring smoother operations at one of West Africa's busiest ports. The project, which was booked in Kalmar's Q4 2024 order intake, was completed in Q1 2025, demonstrating the company's ability to deliver complex projects on schedule.
In addition to the physical refurbishment, Kalmar also provided a comprehensive maintenance training program for the port technicians in Abidjan. This initiative is designed to empower the local team with the knowledge and skills necessary to maintain the cranes in optimal condition, thereby maximizing their operational lifespan. Peter Bos, Project Manager at Kalmar, highlighted the importance of this training, noting its role in sustaining the long-term performance of the equipment.
This project marks another milestone in the ongoing partnership between Kalmar and AGL, which spans several years and includes similar refurbishment projects in other African countries such as Congo and Benin. AGL, a subsidiary of MSC, is a major player in Africa's port logistics sector, operating 17 container terminals across the continent. The successful completion of the Abidjan project underscores the mutual trust and collaboration between the two companies, setting a positive precedent for future endeavors.