Today in the Connected Economy: Netflix Set to Debut Mobile Games

Today in the connected economy, Netflix gets set to debut its mobile games line-up, while people in Argentina turn to gaming on the metaverse to deal with rampant inflation. Plus, Google parent Alphabet spins off its quantum tech operation Sandbox AQ, and Dutch startup ParkBee raises $33 million.

Netflix Launching New Mobile Games This Month

Netflix has announced the release of a series of Netflix Games on Android and iOS devices, available free to all subscribers with no ads, fees or in-app purchases required. Among the games set to debut is “This Is A True Story” from Frosty Pop, and “Shatter Remastered” and “Into The Dead 2: Unleashed,” both from Pik Pok.

Crypto Gaming Becomes Hot Income Driver in Argentina

As inflation drives down salaries, cryptocurrency gaming has become a hot source of income for people in Argentina, with 9,400 visits this year to Decentral Games, the world’s most popular metaverse site. Argentina ranks fifth globally for people playing games for income, and Brazil is seventh, as both countries deal with double-digit inflation. Brazil’s inflation rate is over 10%, and Argentina is wrestling with a 10-month high of more than 50%.

Alphabet’s Quantum Tech Group Sandbox AQ Goes Solo

Google parent company Alphabet has spun off Sandbox AQ, independently offering companies quantum computing and artificial intelligence (AI) software, the Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) vendor has announced. Founded by CEO Jack Hidary, Sandbox was born at Alphabet six years ago. Earlier this year, Sandbox AQ launched an independent company to come up with quantum AI solutions for financial services, healthcare, computer security, the U.S. government and other computer-intensive sectors.

Amsterdam Startup ParkBee Closes $33M Financing Deal

ParkBee, a startup from the Netherlands that turns seldom-used parking spots into bookable spaces for the public, has completed a 30 million euros (about $33 million) funding deal. “We are delighted that a renowned and experienced entrepreneur like Kees Koolen (CEO and founder of Koolen Industries) is joining ParkBee as an investor,” ParkBee CEO Werner Paul Boerma said. “Someone with so much experience in the world of tech platforms on board is a recognition for the work and dedication of everyone within ParkBee.”

Payments Firm Opy Offers Financing for Car Repairs

Payments FinTech Opy has begun branching out into the automotive sector, letting drivers use its OpyPay tool to pay for service and repairs at franchised car dealers around the country. The CEO added that Opy’s service is an attractive payment option for customers who need to pay for major car repairs.