HERE launches HD Live Maps
Chicago-based location intelligence service announced a cloud-based mapping service that may be a step along the way toward fully autonomous cars. Combining detailed maps of permanent road features with data on construction, traffic and typical speeds (as opposed to speed limits), HERE’s platform is better enabled to adjust to the human drivers surrounding it than systems based solely on maps and sensor data. The platform will also self-update when coming across new speed limits or lane closures, to the benefit of other drivers. [HERE unveils HD Live Map, creates commercial path to highly automated driving: HERE]
Zebra launches device to boost warehouse productivity
Today, Chicago’s Zebra Technologies launched a new Android-based handheld scanning device for use by warehouse workers. The device, named TC8000, has a 4-inch touchscreen interface that can be used while wearing gloves. [Zebra says new device can boost warehouse worker productivity: Chicago Tribune]
Chicago standardizes app-based cab hailing
Chicago's cabbies will be required to use either Arro or Curb for smartphone hailing by February 1. This requirement is part of an initiative by the city to make cab hailing more convenient for Chicagoans. Standardization of the hailing process is badly needed for the taxi industry in trying to compete with ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft. [Two firms to offer ride-hailing apps for beleaguered taxi industry: Crain's Chicago Business]
Chicago investors flock to Healthfinch
Healthfinch, a medical software company based in Madison, Wis., has raised a $7.5 million Series A from some of Chicago’s most prolific investors. Adams Street Partners led the round, with participation from JumpStart Ventures, Chicago Ventures, OCA Ventures and Abundant Venture Partners. Healthfinch makes software to automate and organize certain routine, repeatable and electronic tasks. [Built In Chicago]
Is Twitter about to get verbose?
Facing backlash after Re/code reported that Twitter may expand its character limit from 140 to 10,000, co-founder and CEO Jack Dorsey took to, you guessed it, Twitter to defend his company. In a ten paragraph post in image form — a commonplace strategy for avoiding the current character limit — Dorsey pointed out that Twitter users exceed the character limit anyway, and that the current limit is a legacy from when users tweeted using SMS messages capped at 160 characters. He did not, however, confirm or deny the reported rumors.
AT&T launches big data partnership with Chicago
AT&T is launching smart city partnerships with Chicago, Atlanta, and Dallas to provide city bureaucrats with real time data on traffic, infrastructure maintenance needs, and other tasks and resources that keep cities running. The partnerships, which also involve companies like Cisco, Ericsson, Intel and GE, are intended to help cities save money and make better priorities with their resource allocations. [AT&T wants to make every city smart: The Verge]
Illinois crowdfunding bill goes into effect
On January 1, the Illinois Intrastate Equity Crowdfunding Bill (HB 3429) went into effect, allowing small and mid-sized businesses to crowdfund up to $1 million yearly from Illinois residents contributing up to $5,000 each per company in exchange for equity. Already, several startups are preparing to help companies and investors take advantage of new opportunities, including ZacksInvest and CFX Markets. [Built In Chicago]
Get ‘em while they’re hot
Great news for those wishing they were somewhere else this winter: Oculus Rift’s long-awaited VR headset is now available for preorder. The headsets will retain for $599 in a bundle that includes an Xbox One controller and a remote to help you explore unchartered territories. Headsets are expected to ship in March. [Oculus Rift virtual reality headset to sell for $599, ship in March: Chicago Tribune]
Thoma Bravo acquires Infogix
Naperville data analytics, compliance, and risk management software provider
was acquired by Thoma Bravo — a private equity fund — for an undisclosed price. [Thoma Bravo Acquires Infogix, Inc.: Business Wire]
Images via Here, Zebra Technologies, Shutterstock, Healthfinch, Twitter, Oculus Rift, and Infogix.
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