HCLSoftware, a global enterprise software leader, launched HCL Domino 14.5 on July 7 as a major upgrade, specifically targeting governments and organisations operating in regulated sectors that are concerned about data privacy and digital independence.

A key feature of the new release is Domino IQ, a sovereign AI extension built into the Domino platform. This new tool gives organisations full control over their AI models and data, helping them comply with regulations such as the European AI Act.

 It also removes dependence on foreign cloud services, making it easier for public sector bodies and banks to protect sensitive information.

“The importance of data sovereignty and avoiding unnecessary foreign government influence extends beyond SaaS solutions and AI. Specifically for collaboration – the sensitive data within email, chat, video recordings and documents. With the launch of Domino+ 14.5, HCLSoftware is helping over 200+ government agencies safeguard their sensitive data,” said Richard Jefts, executive vice president and general manager at HCLSoftware

The updated Domino+ collaboration suite now includes enhanced features for secure messaging, meetings, and file sharing. These tools are ready to deploy and meet the needs of organisations that handle highly confidential data.

The platform is supported by IONOS, a leading European cloud provider. Achim Weiss, CEO of IONOS, added, “Today, more than ever, true digital sovereignty is the key to Europe’s digital future. That’s why at IONOS we are proud to provide the sovereign cloud infrastructure for HCL’s sovereign collaboration solutions.”

Other key updates in Domino 14.5 include achieving BSI certification for information security, the integration of security event and incident management (SEIM) tools to enhance threat detection and response, and full compliance with the European Accessibility Act, ensuring that all web-based user experiences are inclusive and accessible to everyone.

With the launch of Domino 14.5, HCLSoftware is aiming to be a trusted technology partner for public sector and highly regulated organisations seeking control, security, and compliance in their digital operations.

Mitsubishi Electric Corporation announced on July 7 that its ME Innovation Fund has invested in Things, a Japan-based startup that develops and provides AI-assisted product lifecycle management (PLM) systems for the manufacturing industry. 

This startup specialises in comprehensive document management, covering everything from product planning and development to disposal. According to the company, this marks the 12th investment made by Mitsubishi’s fund to date.

Through this investment, Mitsubishi Electric aims to combine its extensive manufacturing and control expertise with Things’ generative AI technology. The goal is to accelerate the development of digital transformation (DX) solutions that tackle various challenges facing the manufacturing industry.

In recent years, Japan’s manufacturing sector has encountered several challenges, including labour shortages and the ageing of skilled technicians, which hinder the transfer of expertise. In response, DX initiatives, such as the implementation of PLM and other digital systems, have progressed rapidly. However, these initiatives have faced challenges related to development time, cost, usability, and scalability.

Komi Matsubara, an executive officer at Mitsubishi Electric Corporation, stated, “Through our collaboration with Things, we expect to generate new value by integrating our manufacturing expertise with Things’ generative AI technology. We aim to leverage this initiative to enhance the overall competitiveness of the Mitsubishi Electric group.”

Things launched its ‘PRISM’ PLM system in May 2023, utilising generative AI to improve the structure and usage of information in manufacturing. PRISM offers significant cost and scalability advantages, enhancing user interfaces and experiences while effectively implementing proofs of concept across a wide range of companies.

Atsuya Suzuki, CEO of Things, said, “We are pleased to establish a partnership with Mitsubishi Electric through the ME Innovation Fund. By combining our technology with Mitsubishi Electric’s expertise in manufacturing and control, we aim to accelerate the global implementation of pioneering DX solutions for manufacturing.”

Canva has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) to launch free teacher training and certification programs hosted on the education ministry’s DIKSHA platform. 

The initiative aims to enhance digital literacy, creativity, and AI proficiency among educators across India, in alignment with the objectives of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.

As part of the agreement, Canva will offer Indian teachers free access to its education platform and provide learning materials tailored for visual and collaborative instruction. NCERT will ensure that the course content aligns with the national curriculum and is made regionally accessible. Available in multiple Indian languages, the course will also be broadcast via PM e-Vidya DTH channels to extend its reach beyond internet-enabled classrooms.

The certification program includes training on using Canva’s design tools to create engaging lesson plans, infographics, and presentations. Teachers will also learn to co-create content with students and apply AI tools to improve classroom outcomes. Upon completion, participants will receive a joint certificate from NCERT and Canva.

“This partnership is a powerful step toward equipping educators with practical digital skills that not only save time but spark imagination in every classroom,” Jason Wilmot, head of education at Canva, said in a press statement.

Chandrika Deb, country manager for India at Canva stated, “By delivering this program free of cost, in multiple languages, and through a trusted national platform like NCERT, we are not only advancing digital fluency and creative confidence in classrooms across the country, but also deepening Canva’s long-term commitment to India, which plays a pivotal role in our vision to democratize design and creativity at scale.”

Moreover, the company shared some interesting figures. Canva has seen significant global momentum, with over 100 million students and teachers using its platform. In 2024, over 1 billion designs were created, many powered by Canva’s AI tools like Dream Lab, which enables teachers to generate custom visuals instantly. Teacher usage of AI tools has increased by 50% over the past year, with student engagement rising by 107%.

We may see further developments in this partnership as the training program for teachers progresses over time.