NEC tests parking tech that only starts charging once you exit your car

Japanese electronics giant NEC is conducting tests of a unique parking technology that initiates charging only when a driver exits their vehicle. Unlike traditional parking systems that charge based on the time a driver enters the facility, this new system employs cameras and AI analysis of live video footage to detect when a driver parks and exits.

NEC, in collaboration with Japanese company UrbanChain, will conduct a trial in September to determine the optimal number of cameras required for the system to function effectively. Besides charging drivers upon exiting, the system can also monitor vehicle occupant exit counts, analyze facility visitor trends, and potentially identify drivers who have been in their cars for extended periods, possibly indicating health issues.

The companies believe this technology could lead to safer driving habits, as drivers may feel less pressured to search for a parking spot and act more cautiously when exiting. Meanwhile, Japanese printer manufacturer Fujifilm is considering a partial spin-off of its printer business, with plans to retain up to 20 percent of its shares.

The company believes this move will allow it to focus on its other businesses. In other news, Chinese data center operator Envision recently commissioned a 2GW-plus facility in Inner Mongolia, utilizing renewable energy and housing up to one million GPUs for AI computing. Meanwhile, Australian submarine cable operator Bevan Slattery raised concerns over "suspicious/coincidental activity" following faults in two of his cables, prompting a potential police investigation.

Lastly, Indian IT services firm Infosys has partnered with footwear company Crocs to modernize its systems, aiming to standardize operations and improve efficiency.