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Batteries Plus Unveils Proprietary Artificial Intelligence Platform to Support Franchise Growth, Amplify Store Experience

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3 weeks ago

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Savannah turns inbound franchise interest into qualified, scheduled discovery calls Edison ensures all calls to a Batteries Plus store are answeredWattson gives associates and customers a faster, simpler path to the right product

HARTLAND, Wis., Aug. 31, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Batteries Plus, the nation’s leading battery and power solutions service center, is proud to unveil its latest technology innovation: a platform of Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools designed to strengthen the brand’s franchise development pipeline while enhancing the store experience for associates and customers alike. Built through a combination of vendor partners, consultants, and its own in-house research, Batteries Plus has added three new tech tools to the system:

Savannah: An SMS AI voice agent developed specifically for franchise developmentEdison: An AI voice assistant that ensures no call goes unansweredWattson: An AI-powered search tool that helps store associates and customers navigate products with confidence

“As a brand deeply rooted in the technology space, Batteries Plus is proud to be leading the charge in the age of AI”

Deployment is underway across all Batteries Plus locations, with full system rollout expected to be completed by the end of September.

“As a brand deeply rooted in the technology space, Batteries Plus is proud to be leading the charge in the age of AI,” said Scott Williams, CEO of Batteries Plus. “This is not creating AI for the sake of breaking into the world of AI. This is creating tools that genuinely assist our entire proprietary business model, so that everyone from the corporate level to our store associates can work efficiently and confidently as the Experts in Charge dedicated to serving our customers.”

Savannah: Driving Franchise Growth

Savannah was developed from the ground up under the leadership of Joe Malmuth, with the underlying goal of turning qualified franchise leads into long-term, sustainable growth. Aspiring entrepreneurs can call into Savannah, a go-to resource trained to answer any question related to the Batteries Plus franchising opportunity.

At the conclusion of each call, the prospective owner receives a detailed email that includes a link to an overview of the Batteries Plus history and business model, a franchise application, and a franchise discovery call already scheduled on the calendar, moving that lead directly to the next phase of the franchise process. In addition, Savannah has outbound prospecting capabilities, SMS functions, and is compliant with all regulations.

“Savannah is changing the game in our franchise growth strategy,” said Joe Malmuth, Chief Development Officer of Batteries Plus. “We built Savannah in-house because nobody understands what a prospective Batteries Plus franchise owner needs to hear better than the people who talk to them every day. By the time we get on a discovery call now, we’re speaking with someone who genuinely understands the Batteries Plus franchise opportunity, changing what our team spends its time on and who ultimately ends up in our system. The result has been a dramatic increase in overall engagement and franchise development activity – a true win-win.”

Edison: Helping Answer the Call

Edison serves as the customer-facing counterpart, ensuring calls to all 700+ Batteries Plus stores are answered. The voice agent handles the most common questions customers ask when they call a store, such as hours, directions using nearby landmarks, battery advice, product and service inquiries, and more, all while answering with consistent branded messaging on every call.

“Each of our stores receives an average of 30 calls a day. While we know the importance behind answering every call, we also understand the reality that some may fall through the cracks,” said Jon Sica, President of Batteries Plus. “That’s not indifference; it’s an associate mid-way through a device repair who can’t walk away from the customer standing in front of them. By reversing that course, we’re capturing business we were previously leaving on the table, and we’re giving our store teams the ability to devote their undivided attention to the people who walk through our doors. We see this as a multi-million dollar move.”

Edison offers conversations in both English and Spanish. Developed in partnership with SynthFlow AI, Edison was built on the foundation of years of research from the Batteries Plus team.

“We’ve all experienced the frustration of a poorly designed voice agent that doesn’t understand what you’re saying or can’t answer some of the most basic questions,” said Angela Geib-Boland, Vice President of Technology and Strategy at Batteries Plus. “It was essential we kept those challenges in mind as Edison was created, so that the level of service our customers have grown accustomed to in our stores carries over to the phone.”

An additional benefit that quickly surfaced in early deployment: Edison intercepts the significant volume of spam calls stores were absorbing, before an associate ever loses a minute to one. For customers who would rather not speak with an AI assistant, Edison listens for key words and phrases throughout the conversation, escalating the call to the store team when necessary.

Wattson: A Store Associate’s Favorite Assistant

Wattson, connected to the Batteries Plus point-of-sale (POS) system, is helping new store associates operate with the efficiency and confidence of a tenured employee. Previously, finding the right automotive battery required a lengthy process of detailing engine size, sub-model, and a chain of additional details before reaching a solution. Wattson strips that drill-down to only the questions that actually change the answer. If the solution is identical across a year, make, and model, the associate never sees the extra steps. The result is a near-instantaneous answer.

That same logic also extends to customers directly. The search tool at BatteriesPlus.com has been simplified in tandem, surfacing additional vehicle specifications only when those details are genuinely the deciding factor in which battery a customer needs. Wattson launched with the automotive category and is live system-wide. Additional product categories will roll out through the end of the year, prioritized by sales volume.

As Batteries Plus continues to evolve its technology strategy, the company remains focused on leveraging innovation to better serve customers and support franchisees across its more than 800 locations open and in development throughout the U.S. and Puerto Rico, further strengthening its position as a leader in essential retail.

For more information on Batteries Plus’ products and services or to find a retailer near you, please visit www.batteriesplus.com. For more information on opening a Batteries Plus franchise in your community, please visit www.batteriesplusfranchise.com.

ABOUT BATTERIES PLUS:  

Batteries Plus is the nation’s leading battery and power solutions service center, offering a comprehensive selection of products, technical expertise, and customized services through a nationwide network of over 800 locations open and in development. Headquartered in Hartland, Wisconsin, and owned by Freeman Spogli, Batteries Plus is dedicated to providing reliable, commercial and residential power solutions – including batteries, lighting, and repair services – to help organizations and customers minimize downtime and maximize efficiency. For more information about Batteries Plus and its franchising opportunities visit batteriesplusfranchise.com.  

Media Contact: Meg Ryan, Fishman Public Relations, mryan@fishmanpr.com

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SOURCE Batteries Plus

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iScreen Reaches No. 1 in Graphics & Design Across 94 Markets Following iOS 27 Update

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1 hour ago

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September 20, 2026

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Extra-large widget experiences, iOS 27-inspired themes and new customization tools drive iScreen’s latest global growth

LOS ANGELES, Sept. 20, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — iScreen, a mobile customization app for iOS and Android, announced that it has reached No. 1 in the Graphics & Design category across 94 countries and regions following its latest iOS 27-focused update.

The update expands iScreen’s Home Screen customization experience with new extra-large widgets, iOS 27-inspired themes, layouts optimized for new screen proportions, and AI-assisted design tools.

Extra-Large Widgets

Built for the larger widget canvas available in iOS 27, iScreen’s new extra-large widgets go beyond simply scaling up existing formats. The collection includes Photo, Album, Music, Calendar, Interactive Refrigerator and Quick Launch widgets, among others. Users can also customize content, layouts and visual styles to create more functional and expressive Home Screen experiences.

iOS 27-Inspired Themes and iPhone Duo Theme Support

iScreen has introduced new iOS 27-inspired themes that combine coordinated wallpapers, transparent-style widgets, icons and other visual elements into complete Home Screen setups.

Selected themes have also been optimized for iPhone Duo’s screen proportions and display dimensions, with wallpapers, widgets and icons adjusted to better fit the new format while maintaining a cohesive visual experience.

AI-Assisted Home Screen Design

iScreen is also testing AI Home Screen Designer with a limited group of users. The feature generates coordinated design suggestions based on users’ preferences for style, color and visual elements, combining wallpapers, widgets and icons into a unified setup.

“The latest iOS update has opened up new possibilities for mobile personalization,” said the iScreen team. “We want to turn those capabilities into practical and creative experiences that make Home Screen design easier and more expressive.”

About iScreen

iScreen is a mobile customization app offering widgets, wallpapers, themes and Home Screen customization tools for iOS and Android devices. With more than 100 million users worldwide, iScreen has ranked No. 1 in Graphics & Design across 94 countries and regions and has been featured by Apple Editorial in 128 countries for five consecutive days.

Official Website: iScreen – Phone Style, iScreen it!
iOS Download: ‎‎iScreen – Widgets & Wallpaper App – App Store
Android Download: iScreen Google Play

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/iscreen-reaches-no-1-in-graphics–design-across-94-markets-following-ios-27-update-302883972.html

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JACC: Clinical Electrophysiology Publishes 12-Month Outcomes from Field Medical’s First-in-Human Field PULSE Trial: 94.2% Per-Vein PVI Durability with Optimized Waveform

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3 hours ago

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September 20, 2026

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Late-breaking HRX data advance Field Medical’s “instantaneous ablation” workflow and expand the clinical evidence for high-voltage focal PFA with the FieldForce™ PFA System

ATLANTA and CARLSBAD, Calif., Sept. 20, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Field Medical, Inc., advancing high-voltage focal pulsed field ablation (PFA) for complex arrhythmias, today announced publication of 12-month results from the first-in-human Field PULSE trial in JACC: Clinical Electrophysiology. The findings were presented simultaneously as a Late-Breaking Clinical Trial at HRX Live 2026.

Field Medical developed the FieldForce™ PFA System around a high-voltage focal PFA architecture designed first for the ventricle, where depth, stability and control are among the most difficult challenges in ablation. Field PULSE extends that work into the atrium and evaluates a subsecond point-by-point workflow Field Medical terms “instantaneous ablation.” In this study, the approach was associated with procedural efficiency, durable pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) and flexibility beyond the pulmonary veins, without the need for prolonged catheter stability.

Key Findings:

Procedural efficiency with subsecond focal PFA: 13-minute median elapsed PVI ablation time, with a fastest time of 7.7 minutesDurable PVI with the optimized waveform: 94.2% per-vein durability reflecting progressive improvement with waveform evolutionFlexible focal ablation: 49% of patients received non-PV ablation for additional atrial targetsNo primary safety events were observed80% freedom from atrial arrhythmias at 12 months with the optimized waveform

“Field PULSE demonstrates the feasibility of truly instantaneous focal PFA,” said Vivek Reddy, M.D., co-principal investigator, lead author and electrophysiologist at Mount Sinai Health System. “Delivering the full application in less than 200 milliseconds reduces the need for prolonged catheter stability while preserving the flexibility of point-by-point ablation. The procedural efficiency, safety and pulmonary vein durability observed with the optimized waveform support continued clinical development of this approach.”

The publication builds on Field Medical’s peer-reviewed clinical work in ventricular tachycardia. Six-month outcomes from the company’s first-in-human VCAS trial were published in Circulation in 2025. Field PULSE now adds first-in-human, peer-reviewed atrial data evaluating the same high-voltage focal PFA architecture through a distinct focal workflow in a different cardiac substrate.

“We designed FieldForce to solve some of the hardest problems in focal cardiac ablation, beginning in the ventricle,” said Mark A. Turco, M.D., president and chief executive officer of Field Medical. “Field PULSE demonstrates that the same high-voltage focal PFA architecture can support an ‘instantaneous ablation’ workflow in the atrium. This growing body of evidence reinforces the range of the platform: depth and focal control in the ventricle, speed and precision in the atrium, and the versatility to address very different cardiac substrates through a familiar point-by-point approach. These results add important clinical evidence as we continue to advance our differentiated PFA platform.”

The study, “High-Voltage Focal PFA Catheter for ‘Instant’ Point-By-Point Ablation: The First-In-Human FIELD-PULSE Trial to Treat AF,” was published online in JACC: Clinical Electrophysiology concurrent with the HRX presentation. DOI: 10.1016/j.jacep.2026.09.001.

About Field Medical®, Inc.
Field Medical is a clinical-stage medical technology company committed to advancing pulsed field ablation (PFA) solutions for complex cardiac arrhythmias. The company was founded by Steven Mickelsen, M.D., CTO, a pioneer and global thought leader in PFA whose work has helped shape the evolution of the field. The FieldForce PFA System integrates a focal catheter design with proprietary FieldBending™ energy designed to safely deliver efficient, precise ablation with the goal of improving outcomes in ventricular and atrial arrhythmia treatment. In 2024, Field Medical earned Breakthrough Device Designation and gained entry into the FDA TAP Pilot Program for its ventricular tachycardia indication. In October 2025, the VCAS trial was published in Circulation.

For more information, visit fieldmedicalinc.com and follow us on LinkedIn and YouTube.

The FieldForce™ PFA System is an investigational device and is limited by federal (or United States) law to investigational use.

Media Contact
Holly Windler
619.929.1275
media@fieldmedicalinc.com

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GameSir Announces Official Fortnite Mobile Controller Collection

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4 hours ago

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September 20, 2026

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Officially Licensed Fortnite Edition Mobile Controllers Deliver Console-Level Precision and Premium Collectible Designs

ORLANDO, Fla., Sept. 20, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — GameSir, a global leader in gaming peripherals, announced its collaboration with Fortnite, introducing an all-new collection of officially licensed mobile controllers that combine GameSir’s award-winning technology with one of the world’s most iconic games.

Launching with the GameSir G8 Plus Fortnite Edition and GameSir X5 Lite for XBOX Fortnite Edition, the collection is designed for mobile players who demand more from every match. Featuring premium controller technology that delivers console inspired performance, authentic Fortnite-inspired designs, and an in-game bonus item with every controller, the collection delivers an experience that extends well beyond the hardware.

Facilitated by IMG Licensing, the collaboration brings console-quality precision, comfort, and customization to mobile gaming—whether players are dropping into Battle Royale, Zero Build, Reload, or developer-made games.

“Fortnite has built one of the most passionate communities in gaming, and we’re honored to collaborate on products worthy of that community,” said Eric Bright, Vice President of Partnerships & Product Strategy, North America at GameSir. “Our goal wasn’t simply to build another controller. We wanted to create the ultimate Fortnite experience—from the premium hardware to the authentic character-inspired designs.”

“Fortnite continues to set the standard for how gaming brands connect with players through innovative products and meaningful experiences,” said Louie Sandoval, Vice President of Global Gaming at IMG Licensing. “GameSir has built a strong reputation for delivering high-quality gaming peripherals, making them an outstanding partner for this collaboration. We’re excited to see Fortnite fans around the world experience this collection.”

GameSir G8 Plus – Fortnite Edition

The flagship controller for players seeking the ultimate competitive experience.

Drift-resistant Hall Effect sticks for lasting precisionMappable rear buttons for faster edits and personalized controlsConsole-inspired ergonomics for extended gaming sessionsMulti-platform compatibility across today’s leading gaming devicesFortnite-inspired artwork and premium collectible packagingFortnite digital in-game bonus item included with every controller. Depending on which controller, players will get the Bully Emote, Burpee Emote, Gun Show Emote,Page-Turner Emote, Go! Go! Go! Emote, or Harmony Emote with their purchase.

GameSir X5 Lite for XBOX – Fortnite Edition

Designed for Fortnite wherever life takes you.

Ultra-lightweight portable designResponsive wired performanceComfortable controls optimized for mobile gameplayFortnite-inspired stylingFortnite digital in-game bonus item included with every controller. Depending on which controller, players will get the Extra Cheese Glider, Storm Sigil Glider, Cerberus Glider, Snow Squall Glider, or On Your Mark… Emote with their purchase.

Choose Your Legend

Fortnite has always been about expressing your unique style. Whether it’s your outfit, your loadout, or your strategy, every player leaves their own mark on the Island.

The GameSir Fortnite Collection celebrates that individuality with collectible character-inspired editions built for every type of player. Whether you choose the flagship G8 Plus, the ultra-portable X5 Lite for XBOX, or your favorite Fortnite character edition, every controller delivers the premium performance GameSir is known for.

Coming Soon

The GameSir Fortnite Collection launches this fall through GameSir.com and select retail partners worldwide, including Amazon, Best Buy, AliExpress, TikTok Shop and Walmart.

Additional product details, pricing, launch timing, and the included digital in-game bonus will be announced soon.

Follow GameSir on X, Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, Discord, and Reddit for launch updates, creator reveals, livestreams, gameplay demonstrations, and community events.

Join the conversation using:

#PlayFortnite
#ChooseYourLegend
#MyGameSir

About GameSir

GameSir is one of the fastest-growing gaming peripheral brands in the world, delivering award-winning controllers and accessories designed for mobile, PC, console, and cloud gaming. Known for pioneering Hall Effect technology, innovative product design, and strategic collaborations with the world’s leading gaming and entertainment brands, GameSir creates premium hardware that helps players perform at their best while bringing their favorite gaming experiences to life.

Trusted by millions of players worldwide, GameSir partners with many of the world’s leading entertainment and gaming brands to create officially licensed products that blend iconic franchises with industry-leading hardware. With a commitment to innovation, quality, and accessibility, GameSir empowers players of every skill level to play with confidence—whether at home, on the go, or on the competitive stage.

To learn more, visit www.gamesir.com or follow GameSir on X, Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, Discord, and Reddit.

About IMG Licensing

IMG Licensing is the global leader in brand licensing, managing licensing programs for the world’s best-known brands and trademarks. With over 25 offices worldwide, IMG Licensing provides a unique one-stop-solution for innovative brand growth across a diverse portfolio of clients from business, entertainment, fashion, food, gaming and sports. IMG Licensing is part of WME Group, a global network of businesses that represent the world’s leading talent, intellectual property, and brands. For more information, visit imglicensing.com.

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