Rakuten Opens Boston Research Center
Japan-based e-commerce giant Rakuten has announced the opening of a new research center, focused on artificial intelligence technologies, in Boston. The goal will be to find new applications for big data, machine learning and AI, according to a news release. The release doesn't state the location of the new center, but Rakuten has an office at South Station for its Rakuten Loyalty unit. Rakuten is also the majority shareholder in Somerville-based The Grommet. — Kyle Alspach
Carbonite Tops Earnings, Revenue Expectations for Q2
Carbonite (NASDAQ: CARB) released its Q2 earnings results today, and the online backup company beat expectations all around: It reported Q2 loss per share of $0.01, 2 cents better than the analyst estimate, and $34 million in revenue, over the analysts' estimate of $33.58 million. The Boston firm's revenue increased 12 percent year over year. Moreover, Carbonate's total consumer bookings reaching $35.7 million for the second quarter, an increase of 17 percent year over year. Carbonite hasn't posted a profit since Q4 of 2013—for this past quarter, its net loss was $4.8 million (compared to $2.5 million in the Q2 of last year). Pre market open, CARB's share price was down 2.3 percent to $11.05. — Rebecca Strong
Roger Goodell Upholds Tom Brady's 4-Game Suspension
Here's a link to the NFL's full "Final Decision." In it, the league makes several notable admissions, including the allegation that Brady "arranged for the destruction of potentially relevant evidence that had been specifically requested." Of course, critics of the league will scoff at Goodell's claim in the conclusion that "I entered into the appeal process open to reevaluating my assessment of Mr. Brady's conduct and the associated discipline." >>> Read more on BostInno – Hayden Bird
MIT unveiling $1.2 billion plan for Kendall Square
MIT's "investment arm said it will file Tuesday for city approvals to build on six lots along Main Street in Cambridge. The $1.2 billion project would pour 1.4 million square feet of new development into the heart of Kendall Square and inject some much-desired student housing and open space alongside new university-owned offices and research facilities." – Boston Globe
Why Your Bar or Restaurant Should Be Showing Video Games
Deng's Limoo will air the whole International V Dota 2 tournament at the restaurant on 1032 Comm Ave. near BU and offer free cover for the early rounds. For the finals on August 7th and 8th, Limoo is offering tickets for $12 for single day and $20 for both. Although not the first watch party of its kind in Boston, he believes he's in a particularly good place to offer this. >>> Read more on BostInno – Sam Henken
Getting Up to Speed On Somerville's Union Square Redevelopment Process
Union Square in Somerville quickly established itself as a foodie haven. For those more willing to embrace their voracity, there are perhaps few other places that combine a tight-knit neighborhood feel with a mix of authentic eateries and modern fare. Part of the comprehensive master plan for the City of Somerville is revitalizing Union Square. With a deep-seated food scene and surrounding residential community, officials are hoping to turn the area into a more accessible innovation hub. >>> Read more on BostInno – Nick DeLuca
