GRAMMY® IQ built with IBM watsonx debuts ahead of the 2026 Grammy Awards®
ARMONK, N.Y., Jan. 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- IBM (NYSE: IBM), the Official Artificial Intelligence (AI) & Cloud Partner of the Grammy Awards® for nearly a decade, today announced the launch of GRAMMY® IQ built with IBM watsonx. By tapping into the power of agentic AI, the new fan engagement solution transforms the Recording Academy®'s vast reserves of music industry data into interactive quizzes that put the knowledge of music lovers to the test. IBM plans to also continue to design AI-driven solutions that automate workflows and deliver more personalized and engaging digital experiences for Recording Academy members, potential new members and millions of music enthusiasts around the world.
"Our partnership with IBM continues to push the boundaries of how technology can celebrate and deepen the world's connection to music," said Adam Roth, Executive Vice President of Global Partnerships at the Recording Academy. "With GRAMMY® IQ built with watsonx, we're not only unlocking the richness of our history and data—we're inviting fans and members everywhere to engage with music in more meaningful, interactive and inspiring ways. This collaboration reflects our shared commitment to innovation, creativity and honoring the artists and stories that shape culture across generations."
"The Recording Academy and IBM are bringing fans closer to the music they love by leveraging AI with the Academy's vast reserves of music industry data spanning all genres and generations," Jonathan Adashek, Senior Vice President of Marketing and Communications at IBM. "We are excited to collaborate together to help deliver more personalized and engaging digital experiences for the members of the Recording Academy and millions of music enthusiasts all around the world."
GRAMMY IQ built with IBM watsonx features an AI-assistant embedded across the Grammys®' digital channels for seamless fan interaction, leaderboards and sweepstakes for daily engagement and social sharing. It uses watsonx technologies, including IBM's Granite 3.0 large language model (LLM), to generate questions, hints and answer explanations based on historical Grammys data. Clues will be provided, if requested, before final answers are revealed, and top fan scores will be featured in a GRAMMY IQ leaderboard on Grammy.com.
Also for the GRAMMYS 2026, IBM plans to work with the GRAMMY Museum® to reinvent Musical Crossroads, an interactive experience on their fourth floor that uses watsonx to allow visitors to explore artists and music across nearly 200 genres and give music lovers a new way to understand the rich and complex history of the industry. Each genre features artists, songs, photos, and interpretive text that connects to other genres, encouraging musical exploration and discovery.
In addition to this year's fan features, IBM plans to continue to evolve how the Recording Academy enhances its membership digital processes for each of its 30,000+ members who represent every genre and creative discipline the music industry has to offer, from folk songwriters and classical composers to hip hop producers and sound engineers. This includes reimagining the member portal and offering translations in 4 additional languages.
This year's solutions – a product of IBM technologies including its latest Granite LLMs, IBM's consulting expertise, and ongoing collaboration with the Recording Academy digital and editorial teams – aim to scale content capabilities of the Recording Academy and deliver music fans, Recording Academy members and prospective members more engaging and informative digital experiences around Music's Biggest Night®.
Explore this year's IBM-powered experiences and more on Grammy.com.
About IBM
IBM is a leading provider of global hybrid cloud and AI, and consulting expertise. We help clients in more than 175 countries capitalize on insights from their data, streamline business processes, reduce costs and gain the competitive edge in their industries. Thousands of governments and corporate entities in critical infrastructure areas such as financial services, telecommunications and healthcare rely on IBM's hybrid cloud platform and Red Hat OpenShift to affect their digital transformations quickly, efficiently and securely. IBM's breakthrough innovations in AI, quantum computing, industry-specific cloud solutions and consulting deliver open and flexible options to our clients. All of this is backed by IBM's long-standing commitment to trust, transparency, responsibility, inclusivity and service. Visit www.ibm.com for more information.
About The Recording Academy
The Recording Academy represents the voices of performers, songwriters, producers, engineers, and all music professionals. Dedicated to ensuring the recording arts remain a thriving part of our shared cultural heritage, the Academy honors music's history while investing in its future through the Grammy Museum®, advocates on behalf of music creators, supports music people in times of need through MusiCares®, and celebrates artistic excellence through the Grammy Awards® — music's only peer-recognized accolade and highest achievement. As the world's leading society of music professionals, we work year-round to foster a more inspiring world for creators.
For more information about the Grammy Awards and the Recording Academy, please visit Grammy.com and RecordingAcademy.com. For breaking news and exclusive content, "like" Recording Academy on Facebook, and join the Recording Academy's social communities on Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, and LinkedIn. For media assets, please visit the Recording Academy Press Room.
Media Contacts
For IBM: Paul Pettas; paulpettas@ibm.com
For the Recording Academy; communications@grammy.com
** The press release content is from PR Newswire. Bastille Post is not involved in its creation. **
IBM and the Recording Academy Strike a Chord, Release New watsonx Digital Experiences for Fans and Members Around 2026 Grammy Awards®
IBM and the Recording Academy Strike a Chord, Release New watsonx Digital Experiences for Fans and Members Around 2026 Grammy Awards®
IBM and the Recording Academy Strike a Chord, Release New watsonx Digital Experiences for Fans and Members Around 2026 Grammy Awards®
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The new SPARK 50 and SPARK 50 5G redefine durable entry tech by combining massive batteries, military-grade toughness, and practical AI features for the young, always-on generation.
HONG KONG, April 3, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Global innovative technology brand TECNO today announced the launch of the first two models in its latest SPARK 50 Series: the SPARK 50 5G and SPARK 50. Built on the core aim of "Massive Power & Durable," this new lineup sets a fresh benchmark in its category by democratizing flagship-level Practical AI. Seamlessly blending industry-leading battery capacity in its class—an astounding 7000mAh on the SPARK 50 and 6500mAh with 45W fast charging on the SPARK 50 5G —with intelligent features designed to make a tangible difference in daily life, both devices are crafted to become the ultimate productivity and creativity boosters for young users navigating work, study, and everything in between.
Unleash the Power: Monster Battery Life with Lightning-Fast Charging
Power users know that endurance isn't just about capacity—it's about how long a phone lasts and how quickly it bounces back. The SPARK 50 5G and SPARK 50 deliver on both fronts with a revolutionary approach to battery longevity and charging speed.
The SPARK 50 5G serves as the all-round 5G pioneer in its class, packing a massive 6500mAh battery complemented by 45W super-fast charging that powers the device from zero to full in just one hour. Its advanced battery system supports an incredible 1,800 charging cycle, maintaining over 80 percent health for up to six years of reliable use. The SPARK 50, meanwhile, stands as the endurance champion of its segment, boasting a colossal 7000mAh mega battery that enables up to 48 hours of continuous talk time, with intelligent power management ensuring the battery retains over 80 percent health even after five years of consistent use.
This commitment to longevity extends well beyond the battery. The SPARK 50 5G has been certified by TECNO Lab for six years of lasting fluency, lag-free performance, ensuring both devices remain fast and responsive for the long haul. Built to withstand the rigors of daily life, both models feature IP64 dust and water resistance and Wet Touch 2.0 technology, allowing for accurate touch control even with wet or oily fingers.
The SPARK 50 5G further raises the bar with MIL-STD-810H military-grade certification for enhanced toughness, while the SPARK 50 is certified to survive drops from up to 1.8 meters. From physical structure to smart touch interaction, the SPARK 50 Series is fortified against accidental drops, splashes, and humid environments, making it a reliable companion for outdoor adventures and daily commutes alike.
Flagship-level Practical AI at Your Fingertips
Raw power is only half the story; the intelligence within is what truly sets the SPARK 50 Series apart. With TECNO AI, both models transform from simple smartphones into intuitive companions that anticipate and adapt to user needs.
They come equipped with the Ella AI voice assistant and introduce AI FlashMemo, a feature that instantly captures on-screen content while automatically generating summaries, titles, and tags for easy recall via the AI MindHub—a private, searchable knowledge base that grows smarter with use. For crystal-clear communication in any environment, the SPARK 50 5G features all-scenario AI noise cancellation for calls, and recordings, while the SPARK 50 utilizes AI voice cancellation to ensure voices cut through, whether on a crowded street or in a windy park.
Both models also prove themselves as a versatile creative tool, featuring a 50MP AI main camera with AI FlashSnap to freeze fast-moving action and BestMoment to automatically capture the perfect shot just as the moment unfolds. Users can bring their memories to life with LivePhoto support, preserving not just images but the seconds of motion and sound that surround them. Adding to its everyday utility, an integrated IR blaster can control over 2,000 home appliance brands across 15 categories, turning the phone into a universal remote that manages entertainment and home devices with effortless ease.
Unbreakable Connectivity for Every Scenario
The SPARK 50 5G is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 6400 5G+ processor, achieving an AnTuTu score of 450,000+, delivering beyond-class performance across every connected experience. With 5G Carrier Aggregation technology, it offers download speeds of up to 200% faster than standard 5G . It has also received the TÜV Rheinland High Network Performance Certification (available in selected markets) and supports smooth gaming at up to 90 frames per second, delivering zero-lag entertainment for mobile gamers who demand the best.
Beyond traditional networks, both models feature FreeLink 2.0, TECNO's revolutionary off-grid communication technology. It enables free voice calls, texts, and image sharing up to an impressive 1.5-kilometer range when no cellular network is available—a potential lifesaver during outdoor adventures, remote travel, or large crowded events where networks are overwhelmed. The SPARK 50 further enhances this capability with a dedicated SA1 signal-boosting chip, improving call distance by 30% in weak signal environments to keep users connected when it matters most. Additionally, the SPARK 50 5G features NFC which exclusively supports Touch Transfer, enabling lightning-fast, one-touch sharing of Live Photos and large files with iPhones, seamlessly bridging the gap between ecosystems for users living in a multi-device world.
A Fresh Iconic Design Language with Premium Durability
The SPARK 50 Series debuts a fresh, stylish look that doesn't compromise on durability. The SPARK 50 5G features a premium six-series aviation-grade aluminum design, which is 1.4 times harder than five-series aluminum, providing a sophisticated metallic sheen and robust lens protection that feels as good as it looks.
Both models are available in a dynamic palette of trend-forward colors to suit every personality and style preference. The SPARK 50 5G comes in Ink Black, Titanium Grey, Fantasy Purple, Mint Green, and Champagne Gold, with Midnight Blue and Ripple Green to follow in select markets. The SPARK 50 is offered in Dynamic Orange, Ink Black, Titanium Grey, Halo Blue, Aurora Purple, and Flowery Pink. While availability may vary by country and region, the goal remains the same: ensuring a perfect match for everyone, from the understated professional to the bold trendsetter.
Availability
The TECNO SPARK 50 5G is now gradually becoming available in the markets, while SPARK 50 will be available from early April. With cutting-edge technology, exceptional durability, and practical AI at an unbeatable value, they represent TECNO's commitment to empowering young consumers with lifestyle tools built for a generation that refuses to compromise.
About TECNO
TECNO is an AI-driven innovative technology brand with a presence in over 70 markets across five continents. Committed to transforming the digital experience in global emerging markets, TECNO relentlessly pursues the perfect integration of contemporary aesthetic design with the latest technologies and artificial intelligence. Today, TECNO offers a comprehensive ecosystem of AI-powered products, including smartphones, smart wearables, laptops, tablets, smart gaming devices, the HiOS operating system, and smart home products. Guided by its brand essence of "Stop At Nothing," TECNO continues to pioneer the adoption of cutting-edge technologies and AI-driven experiences for forward-looking individuals, inspiring them to never stop pursuing their best selves and brightest futures. For more information, please visit TECNO's official site: www.tecno-mobile.com.
The new SPARK 50 and SPARK 50 5G redefine durable entry tech by combining massive batteries, military-grade toughness, and practical AI features for the young, always-on generation.
HONG KONG, April 3, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Global innovative technology brand TECNO today announced the launch of the first two models in its latest SPARK 50 Series: the SPARK 50 5G and SPARK 50. Built on the core aim of "Massive Power & Durable," this new lineup sets a fresh benchmark in its category by democratizing flagship-level Practical AI. Seamlessly blending industry-leading battery capacity in its class—an astounding 7000mAh on the SPARK 50 and 6500mAh with 45W fast charging on the SPARK 50 5G —with intelligent features designed to make a tangible difference in daily life, both devices are crafted to become the ultimate productivity and creativity boosters for young users navigating work, study, and everything in between.
Unleash the Power: Monster Battery Life with Lightning-Fast Charging
Power users know that endurance isn't just about capacity—it's about how long a phone lasts and how quickly it bounces back. The SPARK 50 5G and SPARK 50 deliver on both fronts with a revolutionary approach to battery longevity and charging speed.
The SPARK 50 5G serves as the all-round 5G pioneer in its class, packing a massive 6500mAh battery complemented by 45W super-fast charging that powers the device from zero to full in just one hour. Its advanced battery system supports an incredible 1,800 charging cycle, maintaining over 80 percent health for up to six years of reliable use. The SPARK 50, meanwhile, stands as the endurance champion of its segment, boasting a colossal 7000mAh mega battery that enables up to 48 hours of continuous talk time, with intelligent power management ensuring the battery retains over 80 percent health even after five years of consistent use.
This commitment to longevity extends well beyond the battery. The SPARK 50 5G has been certified by TECNO Lab for six years of lasting fluency, lag-free performance, ensuring both devices remain fast and responsive for the long haul. Built to withstand the rigors of daily life, both models feature IP64 dust and water resistance and Wet Touch 2.0 technology, allowing for accurate touch control even with wet or oily fingers.
The SPARK 50 5G further raises the bar with MIL-STD-810H military-grade certification for enhanced toughness, while the SPARK 50 is certified to survive drops from up to 1.8 meters. From physical structure to smart touch interaction, the SPARK 50 Series is fortified against accidental drops, splashes, and humid environments, making it a reliable companion for outdoor adventures and daily commutes alike.
Flagship-level Practical AI at Your Fingertips
Raw power is only half the story; the intelligence within is what truly sets the SPARK 50 Series apart. With TECNO AI, both models transform from simple smartphones into intuitive companions that anticipate and adapt to user needs.
They come equipped with the Ella AI voice assistant and introduce AI FlashMemo, a feature that instantly captures on-screen content while automatically generating summaries, titles, and tags for easy recall via the AI MindHub—a private, searchable knowledge base that grows smarter with use. For crystal-clear communication in any environment, the SPARK 50 5G features all-scenario AI noise cancellation for calls, and recordings, while the SPARK 50 utilizes AI voice cancellation to ensure voices cut through, whether on a crowded street or in a windy park.
Both models also prove themselves as a versatile creative tool, featuring a 50MP AI main camera with AI FlashSnap to freeze fast-moving action and BestMoment to automatically capture the perfect shot just as the moment unfolds. Users can bring their memories to life with LivePhoto support, preserving not just images but the seconds of motion and sound that surround them. Adding to its everyday utility, an integrated IR blaster can control over 2,000 home appliance brands across 15 categories, turning the phone into a universal remote that manages entertainment and home devices with effortless ease.
Unbreakable Connectivity for Every Scenario
The SPARK 50 5G is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 6400 5G+ processor, achieving an AnTuTu score of 450,000+, delivering beyond-class performance across every connected experience. With 5G Carrier Aggregation technology, it offers download speeds of up to 200% faster than standard 5G . It has also received the TÜV Rheinland High Network Performance Certification (available in selected markets) and supports smooth gaming at up to 90 frames per second, delivering zero-lag entertainment for mobile gamers who demand the best.
Beyond traditional networks, both models feature FreeLink 2.0, TECNO's revolutionary off-grid communication technology. It enables free voice calls, texts, and image sharing up to an impressive 1.5-kilometer range when no cellular network is available—a potential lifesaver during outdoor adventures, remote travel, or large crowded events where networks are overwhelmed. The SPARK 50 further enhances this capability with a dedicated SA1 signal-boosting chip, improving call distance by 30% in weak signal environments to keep users connected when it matters most. Additionally, the SPARK 50 5G features NFC which exclusively supports Touch Transfer, enabling lightning-fast, one-touch sharing of Live Photos and large files with iPhones, seamlessly bridging the gap between ecosystems for users living in a multi-device world.
A Fresh Iconic Design Language with Premium Durability
The SPARK 50 Series debuts a fresh, stylish look that doesn't compromise on durability. The SPARK 50 5G features a premium six-series aviation-grade aluminum design, which is 1.4 times harder than five-series aluminum, providing a sophisticated metallic sheen and robust lens protection that feels as good as it looks.
Both models are available in a dynamic palette of trend-forward colors to suit every personality and style preference. The SPARK 50 5G comes in Ink Black, Titanium Grey, Fantasy Purple, Mint Green, and Champagne Gold, with Midnight Blue and Ripple Green to follow in select markets. The SPARK 50 is offered in Dynamic Orange, Ink Black, Titanium Grey, Halo Blue, Aurora Purple, and Flowery Pink. While availability may vary by country and region, the goal remains the same: ensuring a perfect match for everyone, from the understated professional to the bold trendsetter.
Availability
The TECNO SPARK 50 5G is now gradually becoming available in the markets, while SPARK 50 will be available from early April. With cutting-edge technology, exceptional durability, and practical AI at an unbeatable value, they represent TECNO's commitment to empowering young consumers with lifestyle tools built for a generation that refuses to compromise.
About TECNO
TECNO is an AI-driven innovative technology brand with a presence in over 70 markets across five continents. Committed to transforming the digital experience in global emerging markets, TECNO relentlessly pursues the perfect integration of contemporary aesthetic design with the latest technologies and artificial intelligence. Today, TECNO offers a comprehensive ecosystem of AI-powered products, including smartphones, smart wearables, laptops, tablets, smart gaming devices, the HiOS operating system, and smart home products. Guided by its brand essence of "Stop At Nothing," TECNO continues to pioneer the adoption of cutting-edge technologies and AI-driven experiences for forward-looking individuals, inspiring them to never stop pursuing their best selves and brightest futures. For more information, please visit TECNO's official site: www.tecno-mobile.com.
** This press release is distributed by PR Newswire through automated distribution system, for which the client assumes full responsibility. **
TECNO Debuts SPARK 50 Series with Two Powerful Models: Next-Level AI Goes Mainstream Alongside a 5G Pioneer and a 7000mAh Endurance King
TECNO Debuts SPARK 50 Series with Two Powerful Models: Next-Level AI Goes Mainstream Alongside a 5G Pioneer and a 7000mAh Endurance King
TECNO Debuts SPARK 50 Series with Two Powerful Models: Next-Level AI Goes Mainstream Alongside a 5G Pioneer and a 7000mAh Endurance King
TECNO Debuts SPARK 50 Series with Two Powerful Models: Next-Level AI Goes Mainstream Alongside a 5G Pioneer and a 7000mAh Endurance King
