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Travis Kalanick Launches Atoms Startup Focused On Mining And Transport

From Uber To A New Vision

Travis Kalanick, the former CEO and founder of Uber, has launched a new startup called Atoms. The company expands on technology initiatives previously developed within Kalanick’s firm City Storage Systems. City Storage Systems built CloudKitchens, a delivery-focused restaurant infrastructure business that previously reached a valuation of about $15 billion.

Stealth Mode To Breakthrough

Atoms has operated largely in stealth for several years while developing its technology platform. During a recent episode of the TBPN podcast, Kalanick said the company has expanded its focus beyond food delivery infrastructure. The business now includes several divisions, including Atoms Food, Atoms Mining and Atoms Transport, which focus on automation and industrial systems.

Innovation In Robotics And Self-Driving Technologies

Highlighting its innovative approach, Atoms is pioneering the development of gainfully employed robots – specialized machines designed to boost productivity and deliver societal value. Industry sources, including a report by The Information, have noted that Kalanick is preparing to roll out a robotics and self-driving car platform, backed by key investors from his past ventures with Uber. This strategic move seeks to capitalize on the convergence of automation and transportation technologies.

Resiliency And Reinvention

Kalanick discussed the development of the company in a statement published on the Atoms website. In the message, he described the period following his departure from Uber and his efforts to build new technology ventures. The transition from City Storage Systems’ food infrastructure business to Atoms reflects a broader focus on automation and robotics.

The Future Of Atoms

Atoms plans to apply robotics and automation technologies across several industries, including food services, mining and transportation. The company’s strategy outlines the integration of robotics systems into existing industrial operations as it develops new automation platforms.

Paphos Tourism Board Reports Strong Uptake For Smart Signage Programme

The Paphos regional board of tourism (Etap Paphos) says its smart signage programme continues to attract strong visitor engagement, highlighting the growing role of digital tools in destination management and tourism experiences.

Designed to replace traditional information boards with interactive and environmentally friendly signage, the initiative aims to improve access to information while supporting a more sustainable visitor experience.

QR Code Engagement Continues To Rise

Between January and June 2026, visitors recorded more than 43,000 QR code scans across 150 smart signs installed throughout the district.

Usage remained strong throughout 2025, with the network generating more than 140,000 scans between January and December, indicating that the platform has become an established part of the region’s tourism offering.

Top Destinations Attract The Most Interest

Data from Etap Paphos show that the most frequently accessed locations in 2025 included Panagia Chrysopolitissa, the Monastery of Agios Neophytos, Kremmiotis Waterfall in Kritou Terra, the Catacomb of Agia Solomoni and the Maa-Palaiokastro archaeological site in the Municipality of Akamas.

Among international users, the largest numbers of scans came from visitors from the United Kingdom, Poland, Germany, Israel and Greece, excluding permanent residents of Cyprus.

Expansion Continues In 2026

Further expansion is planned this year, with the seventh phase of the programme already underway.

Eight additional smart signs are scheduled for installation at points of interest and natural landmarks in Nikokleia, Pelathousa, the Municipality of Polis Chrysochous, Letymbou and the Municipality of Akamas.

By scanning a QR code, visitors can access content in their preferred language through a smartphone or tablet. Available features include audio guides, written information, photographs, videos and 360-degree virtual tours.

Digitalisation As A Tourism Strategy

According to Etap Paphos, digitalisation remains a key pillar of its broader tourism strategy, alongside accessibility, sustainable development, cultural heritage promotion, creative tourism and destination marketing.

These initiatives form part of the organisation’s long-term efforts to strengthen Paphos’ position as a year-round destination while enhancing the visitor experience through technology.

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