The New Industrial Revolution
Often referred to as the new Industrial Revolution, the Web Summit has gathered over 3,000 companies from various countries at the Lisbon Exhibition Centre. A significant portion of these companies are focused on the burgeoning field of Artificial Intelligence (AI), a sector projected by Statista to reach a staggering market volume of approximately €780 billion by 2030. These innovative start-ups are leveraging AI to enable machines to think and learn, addressing some of today’s most pressing global issues.
One of the critical challenges is the alarming rate of deforestation in Brazil, where the area affected is equivalent to 350 football fields. To combat this issue, an intriguing solution has emerged. WoodChat, an artificial intelligence system, specializes in identifying various types of lumber through the convenience of WhatsApp. “Our technology operates as an API verified by Meta,” explains Fernanda Onofre, the visionary founder of WoodChat. “In Brazil, our recognition system streamlines the process of completing forestry documentation. It assists loggers in filling out essential forms so that the timber can pass through the federal system with the necessary certification.”
Onofre emphasizes the importance of addressing the illegal trade of Brazilian wood in Europe, stating, “In Portugal, WoodChat ensures that Europeans importing wood from Brazil are compliant with legal standards.”
Making Travel Budget-Friendly
Artificial intelligence is also revolutionizing the travel industry, providing significant savings for those who love to explore new destinations. Enter Tryp, a dynamic start-up founded by the innovative young Portuguese entrepreneur, André Sousa. This platform offers users the ability to book a package of four flights—Lisbon to Malta, Malta to Rome, and back to Lisbon—for just 66 euros per person.
“We have access to a database of 70 million flights, plus train and bus options,” Sousa explains. “By leveraging this data, we create real-time combinations that maximize the chances of conversion.” His software is incredibly sophisticated; it knows all pricing, routes, and cities worldwide, generating millions of exciting possibilities tailored to user preferences.
Rethinking Urban Mobility
The Web Summit also showcases numerous innovative mobility solutions. Among the various stands, we discovered a groundbreaking urban mobility simulator—a hybrid model that combines the features of a multicopter and an airplane. This cutting-edge technology aims to transport both people and goods in a more efficient and environmentally friendly manner, with the potential to grace our skies within the next decade.
“Thanks to Infineon’s advanced chips and semiconductors, concepts that currently seem futuristic could soon become a reality,” states Martin Schiestl, a systems engineer at Infineon Austria. “We are powering drones, electric vehicles, AI data centers, and optimizing energy distribution to where it is most needed.”
The Rise of Robotics
The field of robotics is experiencing remarkable growth and has captivated many attendees at the Web Summit. One standout is Stella the Robot, a self-assembly kit featuring unique and durable 3D-printed components. If any of Stella’s limbs become damaged, they are easily repairable. Each robot can carry up to five kilograms of cargo, but beyond its physical capabilities, Stella offers an educational purpose.
“It fosters creativity among students and teaches them the fundamentals of robotics,” explains Gaelle De Ruyter from Ahead, the company behind Stella. However, as with AI, the rise of robotics also raises concerns about job displacement in traditional sectors. Achieving a balance between the advantages and potential drawbacks of these transformative technologies remains a challenge that experts are diligently working to address.
