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Fine-Tuning the Future of AI: Argonautic is proud to support the evolution of the AI ecosystem and the entrepreneurs powering the innovation

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SEATTLE, Sept. 30, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — In the evolving landscape of artificial intelligence and machine learning, foundation models – the backbone of predictive tasks – have captivated the tech world. Their ability to perform learning tasks are transforming the way we approach natural language processing, computer vision, and signal processing. At Argonautic, while we acknowledge the pivotal role foundation models play in the AI value chain, it is our perspective that the verticalization of these models under direction of teams with unparalleled subject matter expertise and access to proprietary training data aligns with our capital efficient thesis versus new generalized foundation models which require high upfront training costs initially and face price commoditization in the long run.

Foundation models are pre-trained deep learning models that serve as the versatile and general base for computationally-intensive predictive tasks. Foundation models are then ‘fine-tuned’ to perform function specific tasks for a given use case. The term was coined by Stanford Academics in 2021 and surged in popularity in 2022 to describe the models which were breaking out at the time.  Foundation models are especially recognized for their ability to perform ‘zero-shot’ and ‘few-shot’ learning tasks, where a task is performed with few or zero examples previous given to the model.

Argonautic believes that while the evolution of foundation models is crucial for the advancement of AI and technology overall, business models which focus on building these baseline models have high capital requirements and likelihood of commoditization over time. Instead, we believe teams building models with strong subject matter expertise and knowledge of the problem to be solved (which may be built on these generalized models) will reliably come out ahead in solving the most important problems. These teams have unique access to proprietary data that can be used to train their fine-tuned models and unique distribution channels that more seamless inserts AI-powered tools into business workflows.

Foundation models are commonly used for a variety of natural language processing, computer vision, and signal processing tasks. Open AI’s “GPT-N” series captured the general public’s attention with its ability to craft coherent seeming text given a wide range of prompts. At its core, GPT-N simply predicts the next word in a sentence, which when scaled produces coherent seeming responses. It is trained on a large “corpus” of text data sourced mainly from the open internet but also from, forums, publications and  books.

Argonautic maintains a strategic focus on industries with use cases that require verticalized models. While recognizing the importance of foundation models in advancing AI and machine learning, it is clear that the concentration on constructing baseline models carries inherent limitations. Instead, Argonautic partners with teams with strong subject matter expertise to build models tailored to specific problem domains, leveraging their unique access to proprietary data and distribution channels. In the context of foundation models, Argonautic acknowledges the widespread applicability in natural language processing, computer vision, and signal processing tasks. By emphasizing the importance of fine-tuning to achieve verticalization, Argonautic underscores the ability of companies to specialize their models while benefiting from the underlying foundation model’s conversational interface. In this landscape, Argonautic positions itself against significant capital deployment in general foundation models due to diversification risks and concerns about the potential disruption posed by open-source models and new architectures.

For a generalized foundation model to become ‘verticalized’, it must be “fine-tuned” by passing in an extra set of domain specific data to tailor the generalized model for a use case. This allows companies to specialize their models while still benefiting from the conversational interface of the underlying foundation model. OpenAI’s ChatGPT, Alphabet’s Gemini, Meta’s Llama and others are foundation model driven businesses, which enables teams to build while avoiding billions of dollars of initial training costs.

Training a foundation model from scratch is a large, expensive, and important data engineering undertaking. The architecture of these models typically rely on transformers, which have been the industry standard for a number of years. Where it differs is the scale. The success of foundation models depends on the ability to seamless aggregate vast amounts of data with trillions of parameters. At the time of writing, this costs in the order of billions of dollars and will only grow as customer demands outpace the cost trends of computation and storage.

Argonautic does not believe general foundation models to be an area of capital deployment given our investment style. First, they require large checks which create diversification risk for our investors. Second, we are wary of the risk of open-source foundation models and new architectures disrupting the economics of proprietary models. For example, Retrieval Augmented Generation has changed the way enterprises look at retraining. Staying on are ahead of the curve is expensive and risky. 

Pre-dating the explosion of interest in private sector machine learning models, Argonautic believes the value of a model comes from a few areas: (1) unique architecture which gives it a technical or economic advantage (2) proprietary data which lets the model produce unique insights (3) ability to integrate seamlessly into existing workflows. Unique architecture is often spun off from academic institutions with heavy financial backing. As such our area of interest is in teams who have demonstrated the ability to use their unique insight to solve a specific problem. Teams in the space tend to work on verticalized foundation models which take general foundation models a step further with proprietary expertise.

For example, our portfolio company Cognaize, which automates financial spreading for large financial institutions, has accumulated years of financial data which allows it to fine-tune a defensible, verticalized foundation model in the financial technology space. Similarly, Document Crunch, which analyzes construction contracts for conflicting language, uses a corpus built over a number of years to produce exceedingly accurate results for its customers. ConCntric’s platform allows it collect data which will eventually inform its own powerful predictive model. The specific problems our protein engineering teams solve cannot be adequately addressed by a general model. The model’s differentiation for our teams is only possible because of the expertise of the overall team and is not reliant on a lasting technical edge.

As such, more important than ever, Argonautic is interested in teams that know the problem and market they are solving better than anyone else. This also protects companies from future disruption. Even with the next generation of trends, such as automated ‘AI agents’, we believe that teams with strong subject matter expertise are equipped to stay ahead of the pack. It is our view that general foundation models will never be able to solve a specific more reliably than a combination of an elite team that understands a problem and verticalized foundation model.

Argonautic is proud to have been deploying into AI since our founding. As technologists, we are excited to watch the field continue to change the world and as investors we see the opportunity to support this growth.

About Argonautic:

Founded in 2017, Argonautic is a AI/ML B2B venture capital fund investing across Fintech, Construction Tech and Biotech. Argonautic invests in entrepreneurs who are redefining the future of technology and innovation.

For more information, visit argonauticventures.com.

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KTGHR leverages AI-powered real-time transaction capabilities to expand its e-commerce infrastructure, reshaping the engine of enterprise growth.

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22 minutes ago

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April 18, 2026

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DALLAS, April 18, 2026 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Against the backdrop of artificial intelligence continuously reshaping the global business landscape, KTGHR officially launched its new B2B AI-powered intelligent solution for enterprises, dedicated to helping them achieve comprehensive upgrades in cost reduction and efficiency improvement, precise customer acquisition, and intelligent operations.

KTGHR Launches New B2B AI Solution, Reshaping the Engine of Enterprise Growth

As an innovative platform focused on the deep integration of AI technology and business scenarios, KTGHR’s newly released system integrates core functions such as intelligent data analysis, AI-automated marketing, customer behavior prediction, and intelligent customer service. This enables enterprises to make rapid decisions in a complex and ever-changing market environment, achieving sustained business growth.

AI-Driven Precise Customer Acquisition, Comprehensively Improving Conversion Efficiency KTGHR uses advanced algorithm models to conduct in-depth analysis of global market data, helping enterprises accurately target potential customer groups. The system can automatically generate high-conversion marketing content and intelligently distribute it through multiple channels, significantly improving customer reach and conversion rates, enabling enterprises to truly achieve “automated customer acquisition.”

Intelligent Operation System, Relieving Pressure on Human Resource Costs With AI-automated processes, KTGHR can intelligently handle order management, customer follow-up, and data statistics, reducing manual intervention and improving overall operational efficiency. Enterprises can complete global business layouts without a large team.

Integrated B2B Ecosystem, Connecting the Global Supply Chain KTGHR is not just an AI tool platform, but a complete B2B ecosystem. By integrating supply chain resources and intelligent matching mechanisms, it achieves efficient connections between supply and demand, helping companies rapidly expand into international markets and build a borderless business network.

Technology Empowering the Future, Driving Enterprise Digital Transformation KTGHR states that it will continue to increase investment in artificial intelligence, promoting the implementation of more innovative functions to help companies seize opportunities in the digital economy era. With the continuous maturation of AI technology, the B2B industry is ushering in unprecedented development opportunities.

The launch of KTGHR is not only a technological upgrade but also a revolution in business models. For companies seeking breakthroughs and growth, this may be a key step towards the next stage of success.

KTGHR leverages advanced AI algorithms and big data analytics capabilities to achieve a leap from “information matching” to “intelligent decision-making.” The platform can automatically match supply and demand, accurately recommending high-potential partners, significantly reducing the time and cost for companies to find customers and supply chain resources.

By intelligently analyzing market trends and user behavior, KTGHR helps businesses anticipate opportunities, making every transaction more efficient and precise.

End-to-End Intelligent Management, Creating a Seamless Business Ecosystem

KTGHR is not just a transaction platform, but a complete AI business ecosystem. Its core functions include:

AI-powered Intelligent Customer Matching and RecommendationReal-time Data Analysis and Business ForecastingAutomated Order and Supply Chain ManagementSeamless Global Market Connection

Whether you are a small or medium-sized enterprise (SME) or a large multinational corporation, you can achieve digital transformation and global expansion through KTGHR.

Cost Reduction and Efficiency Improvement, Unleashing Business Growth Potential In the traditional B2B model, high communication costs, information asymmetry, and low conversion rates have long been problems. KTGHR, through AI-automated processes, significantly reduces human intervention, helping businesses: Reduce operating costs Increase conversion rates Shorten transaction cycles Enhance customer experience Allow businesses to truly focus on core business and strategic growth.

Seize the AI Business Opportunities and Win the Future As artificial intelligence technology matures, the B2B industry is entering a new era of “intelligent-driven” growth. KTGHR stands at the forefront of this transformation, providing businesses with a sustainable competitive advantage. Choosing KTGHR is not just choosing a platform, but choosing a high-speed gateway to the future of business. For more information, please visit the official KTGHR platform and begin your AI-powered business journey.

Media Contact

William, Ktghr.com, 1 +14255550100 99762, service@ktghr.it.com, Ktghr.com

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SOURCE Ktghr.com

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Link Infinite: Hollyland Pyro Ultra Simplifies Multi-User Monitoring with 4K60 Wireless

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1 hour ago

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April 18, 2026

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SHENZHEN, China, April 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Hollyland, a global provider of professional wireless audio and video solutions, today announced the launch of Pyro Ultra, the new flagship in its Pyro series, featuring next-gen wireless video transmission technology that enables streamlined setup and uncompromised real-time performance. Engineered for professional creators and high-end production environments, Pyro Ultra balances high-performance transmission with practical on-set usability.

Building on Hollyland’s self-developed TWiFi technology, Pyro Ultra delivers one-to-many transmission, native 4K60 support, and a dedicated ultra-low-latency mode for focus pulling. Fully integrated into the Pyro ecosystem and equipped with DFS-ready operation, it is built to meet the demands of modern digital cinema workflows.

The New Standard for One-to-Many On-Set Transmission

In today’s production landscape, the video village is no longer confined to a single monitor. Directors, assistants, clients, and multiple departments require simultaneous, high-fidelity access to the live image across different positions on set.

While existing systems often force a choice between costly, over-engineered solutions and entry-level gear that struggles in demanding environments, Pyro Ultra offers a third approach. As one-to-many transmission becomes increasingly common across productions, it can introduce practical limits on device count and system stability in larger setups. Pyro Ultra’s Broadcast Mode addresses the issue by enabling a single transmitter to connect with an unlimited number of receivers, creating a fluid workflow. Every department, from lighting to hair and makeup, can monitor independently, which helps eliminate bottlenecks and accelerate decision-making.

Cinematic 4K60 Clarity Without Compromise

Image integrity is central to Pyro Ultra. With support for 4K60 transmission, the system delivers the detail and color accuracy required for high-end videography work. It also supports fractional frame rates, including 23.98 and 59.94 fps, commonly used in broadcast and professional pipelines. Its native compatibility enables direct connection to switchers and monitors without external converters, simplifying the signal path and reducing potential points of failure.

20ms Latency for Precise Focus Pulling

For first assistant camera operators and focus pullers, every millisecond counts. Pyro Ultra’s dedicated Focus Mode cuts latency to just 20ms, ensuring the real-time responsiveness needed for razor-sharp adjustments at any distance. The technical edge provides the freedom to navigate tight spaces or complex choreography with absolute confidence.

Powered by TWiFi Technology

At the core of Pyro Ultra is Hollyland’s TWiFi (dual-band wireless) technology. It leverages intelligent frequency management across the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands to enable automatic hopping, ensuring a stable, high-bitrate connection even in congested RF environments. Pyro Ultra’s robust link supports a 1.5 km (4,900 ft) range and is fully DFS-ready, providing professional crews with reliable, globally compliant operation

Engineered for Modern Workflows & Seamless Integration

Pyro Ultra is built for today’s hybrid production workflows. With UVC (USB Video Class) support, it can connect directly to a computer for instant webcam functionality, removing the need for a capture card. Its RTMP support enables direct streaming to web platforms, simplifying remote collaboration. As part of the Pyro ecosystem, Ultra integrates seamlessly with existing Pyro devices. The modular design allows production teams to scale their setups based on project requirements, ensuring consistent performance across different production scenarios.

Pricing and Availability

Launched on April 18, 2026, Hollyland’s Pyro Ultra is now available through local distributors, the official Hollyland online store, and the Hollyland Amazon store.

The 1TX/1RX kit is priced at $1,199, and the 1TX/2RX kit at $1,699. Individual units can also be purchased separately, with transmitters starting at $699 and receivers at $579.

For more information, visit https://www.hollyland.com/product/pyro-ultra

About Hollyland

Hollyland is a leading provider of wireless products, specializing in wireless intercom systems, video transmission systems, monitors, wireless microphones, and live streaming cameras. Since 2013, Hollyland has been serving millions of users around the world in various sectors, including filmmaking, telecasting, video production, live events, exhibitions, theaters, houses of worship, and individual content creators. It has built a sales network covering approximately 150 countries and regions with support from dozens of localized operation offices worldwide. For more information, please visit https://www.hollyland.com/, Hollyland Facebook, and Hollyland Instagram.

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Three Papers Published Consecutively in Nature Energy: JinkoSolar’s Breakthroughs in TOPCon/Perovskite Tandem Technology Receive Authoritative Recognition

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2 hours ago

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April 18, 2026

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SHANGHAI, April 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — JinkoSolar, the global leading PV and ESS supplier, recently published three research papers in succession within a single month in Nature Energy, one of the premier journals in the field of energy research. This series of papers showcases JinkoSolar’s multiple major breakthroughs in TOPCon and perovskite tandem cell technologies.

26.66%! Setting a New Record for Industrial-Scale TOPCon Cell Conversion Efficiency

JinkoSolar, in collaboration with the research team from the Ningbo Institute of Materials Technology and Engineering of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, successfully developed a dual-sided electrical synergy optimization strategy. This approach achieved a certified efficiency of up to 26.66% on M10-sized silicon wafers, setting a new efficiency record for industrial-scale TOPCon cells and significantly narrowing the gap between industrial-scale TOPCon cells and the theoretical efficiency of 29.4%.

Additionally, the research reduced carrier transport losses through a high-resistance boron emitter on the front side and an optimized fine-line grid design, while the back side employs an innovative double-layer tunneling silicon oxide/polysilicon structure on the rear side to effectively suppress performance degradation caused by silver paste puncture. Furthermore, by utilizing localized polysilicon thinning technology, the research achieved outstanding performance metrics, including an open-circuit voltage of 744.6 mV, a fill factor of 85.57%, and a bifaciality of 88.3%. This achievement provides a feasible and comprehensive solution for narrowing the efficiency gap between TOPCon cells and the theoretical limit, significantly enhancing the core competitiveness of TOPCon technology in the future photovoltaic market.

Reference link: Dual-side electrical refinement enables efficient industrial tunnel oxide passivating contact silicon solar cells:
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41560-026-01982-2

Certified Efficiency of 32.73%! Paving the Way for Scalable Compatibility of Perovskite/TOPCon Tandem Cells

JinkoSolar, in collaboration with the research team from Soochow University, has successfully developed a full-size bifacial TOPCon crystalline silicon solar cell with a certified photoconversion efficiency of 26.34%. This research abandons the traditional TOPCon cell design featuring a boron-diffused emitter on the front surface. Instead, it innovatively introduces patterned n-type TOPCon finger contacts on the front surface while retaining the full-area p-type TOPCon contact on the back. By localizing the polycrystalline silicon contact area, this structure significantly reduces parasitic absorption and recombination losses on the front surface, achieving a certified efficiency of 26.34% and significantly improving the open-circuit voltage.

Furthermore, to address the issues of poor contact performance and susceptibility to metal paste corrosion in P-type TOPCon, a “polysilicon/silicon dioxide/polysilicon” double-layer composite structure was designed. Combined with optimized rear-side polishing and a specially formulated silver paste, this structure not only achieves extremely low contact resistance and recombination current but, more importantly, the ultra-thin oxide layer in the middle effectively prevents silver crystal spikes from penetrating the silicon substrate, significantly enhancing the device’s reliability and high-temperature resistance. In the future, by improving the precision of laser patterning to further narrow the finger width and introducing localized contacts on the back side to reduce the polycrystalline silicon layer thickness, parasitic absorption can be reduced, and mass production efficiency is expected to approach 27%.

Using a high-efficiency bifacial TOPCon cell with a textured front surface as the bottom cell, the research team fabricated a monolithic perovskite/TOPCon tandem cell, achieving a certified efficiency of 32.73% and a high open-circuit voltage of 1.961 V. These results not only set a new performance record for this class of tandem cells but also demonstrated excellent long-term operational stability (maintaining 80% of the initial efficiency after 2,000 hours), proving the immense potential of this TOPCon technology route in tandem applications. They also provide a scalable and industrially compatible technical pathway for the development of higher-efficiency TOPCon and perovskite/TOPCon tandem photovoltaic modules.

Reference link: Bifacial tunnel oxide passivating contacts for silicon and perovskitesilicon tandem solar cells with improved efficiency: 
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41560-026-02007-8

32.76%! Breaking Through the Efficiency Barrier for Industrial TOPCon Silicon-Based Perovskite Tandem Cells

To address the critical challenge of rapid perovskite crystallization and film quality degradation caused by the high thermal conductivity of industrial thin silicon substrates, JinkoSolar, in collaboration with the National University of Singapore and other research institutions, innovatively proposed a strategy to regulate the major organic cation (FA⁺) using a dual-mode-coupled ligand (MBT), successfully achieving effective control over crystallization kinetics. A perovskite/TOPCon tandem solar cell fabricated using this strategy was certified by the National Photovoltaic Industry Metrology and Testing Center (NPVM) with a conversion efficiency of 32.76%, approaching the current efficiency record for tandem photovoltaic cells. Additionally, the cell maintained 91% of its initial efficiency after 1,700 hours of continuous operation, demonstrating excellent long-term operational reliability.

This research is of significant importance as it achieves high efficiency (certified at 32.76%) in TOPCon silicon-back-contact cells, which hold the greatest potential for market dominance. Not only does it elevate the efficiency of perovskite/TOPCon tandem cells to new heights, but more importantly, it provides critical scientific insights and a practical pathway for integrating high-performance perovskite materials from the laboratory with market-dominant TOPCon silicon technology, marking a solid step toward the mainstream industrialization of perovskite/ crystalline silicon tandem technology toward mainstream industrialization. In the future, this strategy is expected to be combined with solution-based production processes — which offer the potential for large-scale fabrication and low costs — to drive the industrial application of these research findings.

Reference link: Additive-assisted perovskite crystallization on industrial TOPCon silicon for tandem solar cells with improved efficiency: 
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41560-026-02010-z

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