Technology

Is Qwant’s Fate About to Change? OVH Founder in Negotiations

Published

1 year ago

July 17, 2025

Joseph Jacob

Reviewed
By Chloe Carter

Introduction

A major shift may be coming for Qwant, the French search engine often billed as Europe’s privacy alternative to Google. In April 2023, Octave Klaba—the founder of cloud provider OVHcloud—confirmed he is in talks to acquire Qwant. This deal could mark a turning point for the firm, which has struggled to grow despite generous public support. In this article, we’ll explore why Octave Klaba’s bid for Qwant matters, outline the key details of the negotiations, and consider what it could mean for the future of a truly European search engine.

The Rise and Struggles of Qwant

Qwant launched in beta in February 2013 with a clear promise: protect user privacy by not tracking searches or collecting personal data. Today, it serves users in over 30 countries and powers searches for parts of the French administration.

Despite strong political backing—including being named the default search engine for French government systems—Qwant has struggled to gain market share against Google and Bing. Audits revealed that Qwant still relies on Microsoft’s Bing for up to 64% of its results. Financially, it has run large losses and carries significant debt from loans and public grants. These challenges left Qwant searching for a sustainable path forward.

Who Is Octave Klaba?

Octave Klaba founded OVH in 1999 in France, growing it into one of Europe’s largest cloud computing firms. Known for competitive pricing and a commitment to data sovereignty, OVHcloud operates over 30 data centers worldwide. Klaba and his brother Miroslaw also acquired Shadow, a cloud gaming company, through their investment arm Jezby Ventures.

Klaba has a track record of rescuing and scaling tech companies. His interest in Qwant builds on a broader vision: to combine cloud services, gaming, storage, and search into a unified European platform. This move aligns with growing concerns about reliance on U.S. tech giants and the push for digital sovereignty across the European Union.

Details of the Negotiations

On April 11, 2023, Qwant confirmed it was in “highly preliminary” talks with OVHcloud’s founder to sell the company. Under UK takeover rules, the bidder has until May 15 to submit a firm offer. No financial details have been disclosed, but both sides expect to finalize terms after reviewing recent changes in Qwant’s partnership with Microsoft.

Klaba plans to acquire Qwant through a new entity called Synfonium. He and his brother would hold 75% of Synfonium, while Caisse des Dépôts et Consignations (CDC)—Qwant’s largest public investor—would retain the remaining 25%. Synfonium will also integrate Shadow’s cloud gaming and storage assets, hinting at a multi‑service approach.

Synfonium: A New European Tech Platform

Synfonium is more than a holding company. Klaba envisions it as a “cornerstone” for a suite of European digital services. The name reflects the plan: build a “symphony” of cloud storage, email, gaming, and search under one roof. This integrated strategy aims to attract both individual users and business customers by bundling essential online tools.

75% Ownership: Octave and Miroslaw Klaba
25% Ownership: Caisse des Dépôts et Consignations
Assets Included: Qwant search engine, Shadow cloud platform

Klaba has publicly tested new search prototypes with Qwant’s team and plans to present a detailed roadmap by September, after closing the deal later this summer.

Why OVHcloud Is Interested

Image by: Yandex.com

Analysts see several reasons Klaba is pursuing Qwant:

Data Sovereignty: Owning a European search engine supports strategic autonomy from U.S. tech firms.
User Privacy: Qwant’s privacy-first brand aligns with European laws like GDPR and can differentiate Synfonium’s services.
Cross‑Selling: Integrating search with OVHcloud’s existing customers could boost adoption of other cloud offerings.
Growth Potential: A refreshed Qwant could gain market share if paired with new tech, such as generative AI.

This acquisition would give Klaba a direct presence in consumer‑facing tech—a space he has not yet dominated—and strengthen his mission to build a full‑stack European alternative to platforms like Google Workspace and Amazon Web Services.

Implications for Europe’s Digital Landscape

European institutions have long discussed building homegrown alternatives to U.S. tech giants. Klaba’s bid for Qwant offers a concrete step in that direction. A successful turn‑around could:

Encourage further investment in EU‑based digital startups.
Reduce dependence on non‑European cloud services and search engines.
Spur innovation in privacy‑centric technologies.

However, past efforts—like the European Investment Fund’s loans and public grants—have not stopped Qwant’s decline. Critics warn that merging with OVHcloud assets may not solve fundamental issues: low user adoption and technological reliance on Bing. The new Synfonium must deliver a search engine that rivals Google on speed, relevance, and features to truly reshape Europe’s digital map.

Challenges Ahead

Turning negotiations into a successful takeover and relaunch will demand:

Technical Overhaul: Developing an independent search index to reduce Bing dependency.
User Acquisition: Convincing millions to try Qwant instead of established rivals.
Regulatory Approval: Gaining clearance from French and EU authorities for the Synfonium structure.
Financial Backing: Securing investment to cover debt repayments and fund a technology rebuild.

Even with Klaba’s backing, reviving Qwant requires significant resources. Government audits have flagged Qwant’s heavy reliance on external technologies and repeated financial losses.

What Happens Next?

By May 15, Octave Klaba must decide whether to make a binding offer under UK takeover rules. If he proceeds:

Due Diligence: Detailed review of Qwant’s finances and technology partnerships.
Final Agreement: Signing a sale and share transfer contract.
Regulatory Filings: Notification to EU competition authorities and French financial regulators.
Integration Plan: Merging Qwant’s operations with Shadow and OVHcloud’s support teams.

If talks break down, Qwant may seek other buyers or pursue a fresh funding round. But Klaba’s strategic vision has generated the most interest so far.

Investor and User Reactions

Markets immediately cheered the news. Qwant’s share price rose sharply on the announcement, reflecting hope for a strong turnaround. Tech observers praised Klaba’s boldness but cautioned that rebuilding trust with users and partners will take time.

Privacy advocates are watching closely. A successful Synfonium could prove that tech sovereignty and user privacy can coexist with commercial viability. Conversely, a failed acquisition might reinforce doubts about Europe’s ability to challenge Big Tech.

Conclusion

The potential acquisition of Qwant by OVHcloud founder Octave Klaba could reshape the future of Europe’s “privacy-friendly” search engine and mark a new chapter in digital sovereignty. With Synfonium poised to combine search, cloud, gaming, and storage, the plan promises a unified platform that respects user privacy and challenges U.S. tech dominance. Yet, hurdles lie ahead: technological independence, user adoption, regulatory approval, and funding needs. As May 15 approaches, all eyes are on Klaba’s next move—and on whether these negotiations will finally give Qwant the lifeline it needs to fulfill its founding promise.

Author

Joseph Jacob

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Technology

Epson Printer Error Code 0x9E? 10 Fixes That Actually Work

Published

3 weeks ago

October 7, 2026

adamsmithh

Seeing Epson Printer Error Code 0x9E can be frustrating, especially when the printer suddenly stops working during an important print job. This error may appear on the printer display or computer and can be associated with temporary system glitches, communication problems, paper-feed issues, internal obstructions, firmware problems, or hardware-related faults.

Before assuming that the printer needs repair, try some basic troubleshooting. In many cases, restarting the printer, checking for obstructions, reconnecting cables, or updating the printer software can restore normal operation.

Below are 10 practical ways to troubleshoot Epson Printer Error Code 0x9E.

1. Restart the Epson Printer

Start with a complete restart. Temporary errors in the printer’s internal system can sometimes trigger an error code.

Turn off the printer and disconnect its power cable from the electrical outlet. If the printer is connected to a computer through USB, disconnect that cable as well.

Wait approximately two to five minutes. Reconnect the power cable directly to a wall outlet, switch the printer back on, and check whether the 0x9E error returns.

If the printer starts normally, try printing a test page.

2. Perform a Power Reset

If a normal restart doesn’t work, try a power reset.

Turn off the printer and unplug the power cord. With the printer disconnected from power, press and hold the power button for approximately 20 seconds. Release the button and leave the printer disconnected for another few minutes.

Reconnect the power cable and turn the printer on.

A power reset can clear temporary electrical or internal control errors that may interfere with normal printer operation.

3. Check for Jammed Paper

A small piece of paper inside the printer can sometimes cause unexpected operational errors.

Turn the printer off before inspecting it. Check the input tray, output area, rear access area, and other accessible paper paths. Remove any visible jammed or torn paper carefully.

Avoid pulling paper aggressively because small pieces may tear off and remain inside the machine.

Once the paper path is clear, reload the paper correctly and restart the printer.

4. Look for Foreign Objects

Paper isn’t the only thing that can interfere with the printer’s internal mechanisms. Small objects such as labels, paper clips, dust buildup, or scraps of paper may obstruct moving components.

With the printer powered off and unplugged, inspect accessible areas using adequate lighting.

Do not force or disassemble internal components. If you notice an object that cannot be safely reached, professional servicing may be a better option.

5. Check the Ink Cartridges

Incorrectly installed or poorly seated cartridges may cause some printers to behave unexpectedly.

Open the cartridge access area according to your printer model’s normal procedure. Check whether each cartridge is properly installed.

If necessary, remove and reinstall the cartridges carefully. Make sure they click or sit securely in their designated positions.

Restart the printer afterward and see whether Epson Printer Error Code 0x9E disappears.

6. Inspect the Printer Connections

Communication problems between the printer and computer can sometimes complicate troubleshooting.

For a USB printer, disconnect and reconnect the USB cable. Try another USB port if one is available. Avoid using an unpowered USB hub while diagnosing the problem.

For a wireless printer, verify that the printer and computer are connected to the intended network. Restarting the router may also help if other devices are experiencing connectivity problems.

After restoring the connection, send a simple test document to the printer.

7. Clear the Print Queue

A corrupted or stuck print job can prevent normal printing even after the printer itself has recovered.

Open the printer queue on your computer and cancel pending documents. Restart both the printer and computer before attempting another print job.

If the printer works normally afterward, the problem may have been related to the previous print job rather than a persistent hardware fault.

8. Update or Reinstall the Printer Driver

Outdated, corrupted, or incompatible printer software can cause communication and printing problems.

Check which Epson printer model you own and make sure the correct driver is installed for your operating system. If the driver appears damaged or the problem started after a software change, uninstalling and reinstalling the appropriate printer software may help.

Restart the computer after installation and reconnect the printer.

Then print a test page to determine whether the error has been resolved.

9. Check for Firmware Updates

Firmware controls many of the printer’s internal functions. In some circumstances, updating the firmware can resolve known operational problems.

Check whether an appropriate firmware update is available for your exact printer model. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and keep the printer connected to a reliable power source throughout the update.

Never interrupt a firmware installation by switching off or unplugging the printer.

After the update is complete, restart the printer and check its status.

10. Consider an Internal Hardware Problem

If Epson Printer Error Code 0x9E remains after basic troubleshooting, an internal mechanical or electronic fault may be involved.

Possible trouble areas can include sensors, carriage mechanisms, paper-feed components, internal electronics, or other model-specific parts. The exact meaning of an error can vary by printer model, so avoid replacing components based solely on a generic error-code description.

At this point, check the documentation for your exact Epson model or have the printer professionally inspected.

What If Epson Error Code 0x9E Keeps Returning?

An error that disappears temporarily but repeatedly returns deserves additional attention. Note when the problem occurs. For example, determine whether it appears immediately after startup, while feeding paper, when beginning a print job, or after the printer has operated for several minutes.

This information can help distinguish between software, connectivity, paper-feed, and internal hardware problems.

You should also avoid repeatedly forcing the printer to operate if you hear grinding, clicking, or other unusual mechanical noises.

Final Thoughts

Epson Printer Error Code 0x9E does not always mean that the printer has permanently failed. Begin with simple troubleshooting: restart the printer, perform a power reset, inspect the paper path, check the cartridges, verify connections, and clear pending print jobs.

You can then check the printer driver and firmware if the problem continues. If the Epson Error Code 0x9E persists after these steps—particularly when accompanied by unusual noises or mechanical problems—the printer may require model-specific diagnosis or professional servicing.

Following the troubleshooting steps in order can help you identify the cause without making unnecessary changes to the printer.

Author

adamsmithh

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Business

Stratbeans Custom eLearning Development for Organisations

Published

3 weeks ago

October 3, 2026

Sumit

Some organisations may need a dedicated LMS for employee onboarding and compliance training. Others may require advanced assessments, certifications, analytics, integrations and structured learning paths. For organisations with highly specific requirements, a standard off-the-shelf platform may not provide the flexibility they need.

This is where Stratbeans brings its expertise in custom eLearning development and corporate learning technology.

Rather than asking organisations to adapt their training processes to a fixed platform, Stratbeans focuses on understanding the organisation’s learning requirements first and developing or configuring solutions around them.

A Corporate Dedicated LMS Built Around Organisational Needs

Every organisation approaches learning differently.

A growing company may need a straightforward platform to manage employee training, courses and assessments. A large enterprise may need a more comprehensive learning ecosystem supporting multiple departments, user groups, certifications, compliance programmes, reporting and integrations.

There can also be organisations with unique workflows that require capabilities beyond a conventional LMS.

A corporate dedicated LMS can help address these requirements by creating a learning environment that is aligned with the organisation rather than relying entirely on a standardised approach.

Stratbeans works with organisations to understand these requirements and provide learning solutions that can evolve as their workforce and business needs change.

Bytecasting LMS – A Structured Approach to Corporate Learning

For organisations looking for a practical and structured learning environment, Bytecasting LMS provides capabilities for managing digital learning across an organisation.

The platform can support areas such as course management, learner administration, assessments and reporting, giving organisations a centralised environment for managing employee learning.

For companies beginning their digital learning journey or looking to bring existing training programmes onto a dedicated platform, Bytecasting LMS provides a foundation for structured corporate learning.

Bytecasting Evolve – For Growing Learning Requirements

As organisations expand, their learning requirements often become more complex.

Bytecasting Evolve is designed for organisations that need a broader learning environment capable of supporting evolving training requirements. It can help organisations manage learning content, users, assessments, reporting and learner experiences within a more comprehensive framework.

The focus is not only on delivering courses but on creating a learning ecosystem that can grow alongside an organisation’s workforce and business requirements.

ATUM LMS – A More Customised Learning Environment

Not every organisation can work effectively with a conventional LMS structure.

ATUM LMS is designed for organisations looking for greater flexibility and a more tailored approach to their learning environment. Depending on organisational requirements, the platform can be adapted to support specific learning and operational needs.

This approach can be particularly relevant for businesses that have established processes, specialised training structures or requirements that do not fit neatly into a standard LMS model.

Custom eLearning Development for Specific Business Requirements

An LMS is only one part of a corporate learning ecosystem. Organisations may also require customised learning modules, assessments, integrations, workflows, dashboards and other digital learning components.

Through its custom eLearning development capabilities, Stratbeans works with organisations to create learning solutions around their specific requirements.

This approach can include understanding existing learning processes, identifying technology gaps and developing digital learning experiences that align with organisational objectives.

The result is a more flexible approach to corporate learning, where technology can support the way an organisation actually operates.

One Organisation, One Learning Need

There is no universal approach to corporate learning.

A startup, a manufacturing company, a large enterprise and a professional services organisation may all have very different training requirements. Even organisations within the same industry can have different workforce structures, compliance needs, learning processes and technology environments.

That is why the focus of a dedicated corporate LMS platform should not simply be on the number of features available. It should also be on how effectively those features address the organisation’s actual learning requirements.

With Bytecasting LMS, Bytecasting Evolve and ATUM LMS, along with its custom eLearning development capabilities, Stratbeans offers organisations different ways to build and manage digital learning based on their specific requirements.

Whether an organisation is beginning its digital learning journey, expanding an existing employee training program or developing a more customised learning ecosystem, Stratbeans’ approach remains centred on the same principle: build the learning solution around the organisation, rather than forcing the organisation to fit the platform.

Final Thoughts

The eLearning content development landscape in India offers plenty of options, from large learning providers to specialised custom development companies.

The right choice ultimately depends on what you’re trying to achieve. If you’re looking for a partner that combines custom eLearning content development with corporate learning and LMS capabilities, Stratbeans is one company worth exploring.

Because good eLearning isn’t simply about creating an online course. It’s about creating a learning experience that people understand, remember and can actually use at work.

At the end of the day, the goal is simple: create learning that is useful, engaging and built around the people who will actually use it.

Author

Sumit

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Business

What is a smart water management system and how does it work?

Published

3 weeks ago

October 3, 2026

bestedgetech

Water is one of the most important resources for homes, businesses, industries, and cities. However, managing water efficiently can be difficult when systems depend on manual readings and traditional monitoring methods. Water leaks, high consumption, equipment problems, and unexpected usage can increase costs and lead to water waste.

A smart water management system uses connected devices, sensors, software, and data analytics to monitor and manage water usage more efficiently. With technologies such as IoT device management and IoT gateways, organizations can collect real-time water data and use it to make better decisions.

What Is a Smart Water Management System?

A smart water management system is a technology-based solution that helps monitor, control, and optimize water usage.

It can collect information such as:

Water consumption
Flow rate
Pressure levels
Tank levels
Leakage conditions
Water quality parameters
Equipment performance
Usage patterns

Instead of depending only on manual meter readings, smart systems can automatically collect and transmit data. This makes it easier to understand how water is being used and identify problems quickly.

Smart water management can be used in residential buildings, commercial properties, factories, farms, hospitals, hotels, municipalities, and other facilities.

How Does a Smart Water Management System Work?

A smart water management system generally works through a combination of sensors, meters, IoT devices, IoT gateways, communication networks, and cloud or monitoring platforms.

The process can be divided into several simple steps.

1. Water Data Is Collected

Smart meters and sensors are installed at important points in the water network. These devices measure different parameters depending on the requirements of the facility.

For example, a smart water meter can measure the amount of water being consumed. Flow sensors can monitor the movement of water through pipes, while pressure sensors can identify unusual pressure changes.

The collected information provides a clear view of water usage.

2. IoT Devices Send the Data

The sensors and smart meters generate data at regular intervals. IoT devices help collect this information automatically.

This reduces the need for workers to visit every location and record readings manually.

For example, a building can use connected water meters to record the consumption of different floors or units. The data can then be sent to a central monitoring system.

3. IoT Gateway Connects Devices

An IoT gateway plays an important role in connecting field devices with the central platform.

Water sensors and meters may use different communication technologies and protocols. The IoT gateway can collect information from these devices, process it, and send the required data to a cloud or server platform.

The gateway can also help with:

Device communication
Data processing
Protocol conversion
Local data storage
Security
Remote monitoring

This makes the IoT gateway an important part of a connected water management architecture.

4. Data Is Transmitted to a Platform

After the data is collected and processed, it can be transmitted through available communication networks.

Depending on the application, systems may use technologies such as cellular connectivity, Wi-Fi, Ethernet, LoRaWAN, or other communication methods.

The information can then reach a centralized software platform where users can view and analyze water data.

5. Data Is Analyzed

Collecting water data is only one part of smart water management. The data must also be analyzed to identify useful information.

A monitoring platform can help users understand:

Where water is being consumed
When consumption is highest
Whether usage is increasing
Where unusual flow is occurring
Whether a possible leak exists
How different locations compare
Whether equipment is operating normally

Historical data can also help organizations identify long-term consumption patterns.

Role of IoT Device Management

Managing a large number of connected water devices can become difficult without proper tools. This is where IoT device management becomes important.

IoT device management allows organizations to monitor and manage connected meters, sensors, gateways, and other devices from a central system.

Important functions can include:

Device Monitoring

Organizations can check whether devices are online, offline, or experiencing communication problems.

Remote Configuration

Some connected devices can be configured remotely. This can reduce the need for physical visits.

Software and Firmware Updates

Connected devices may require firmware updates to improve performance, security, or functionality. Centralized management can make these updates easier to handle.

Device Security

IoT device management can support authentication, access control, and other security practices to protect connected infrastructure.

Device Performance

Organizations can monitor device health and identify equipment that may require maintenance or replacement.

As water networks become more connected, effective IoT device management becomes increasingly important.

Why Is an IoT Gateway Important?

An IoT gateway acts as a communication bridge between field devices and backend systems.

In a water management environment, many sensors may be installed across a large area. These devices may generate large amounts of data.

The gateway can collect this information before sending it to the central platform.

Modern gateways can also support edge processing. Instead of sending every piece of raw data to the cloud, some information can be processed locally.

For example, if a sensor detects an unusual flow pattern, the gateway may identify the event and send an alert immediately.

This can help reduce communication delays and unnecessary data transmission.

Smart Water Management for Leak Detection

Water leakage is one of the major challenges faced by buildings, industries, and public water networks.

A smart system can continuously monitor flow and consumption patterns. If water usage changes unexpectedly, the system can generate an alert for further investigation.

For example, if water continues to flow during a period when a building is normally inactive, the system may identify the unusual activity.

Early detection can help organizations investigate possible leaks before they result in significant water loss.

Smart Water Management in Industries

Industries often use water for manufacturing, cooling, cleaning, processing, and other operations.

A smart water management system can help industrial facilities understand where water is being used and how much is being consumed.

Connected monitoring can be applied to:

Production areas
Cooling systems
Water treatment plants
ETP and STP systems
Storage tanks
Process water lines
Utility areas

This information can support better resource planning and help industries identify opportunities to reduce unnecessary consumption.

Smart Water Management in Buildings

Commercial and residential buildings can also benefit from connected water monitoring.

Smart meters can monitor consumption at different levels, such as individual apartments, floors, or common facilities.

Building managers can use this information to understand usage patterns and investigate unusual consumption.

For large buildings, centralized monitoring can make water management easier and reduce dependence on manual meter readings.

Benefits of a Smart Water Management System

A smart water management system can provide several practical benefits.

Better Visibility

Real-time data gives organizations a clearer understanding of how water is being consumed.

Reduced Water Waste

Unusual consumption and potential leaks can be identified more quickly.

Lower Operational Effort

Automated data collection can reduce repetitive manual meter-reading activities.

Faster Problem Detection

Alerts can help teams identify unusual conditions and investigate them earlier.

Better Decision-Making

Historical and real-time data can support more informed water management decisions.

Improved Resource Efficiency

Organizations can identify inefficient consumption patterns and take corrective action.

Current Trends in Smart Water Management

Smart water management is becoming more connected and data-driven. Several technology trends are shaping the sector.

AI and Data Analytics

Artificial intelligence and advanced analytics can help identify unusual consumption patterns, predict demand, and support better decision-making.

Edge Computing

More processing is moving closer to connected devices. Edge-enabled IoT gateways can analyze selected data locally and respond faster to important events.

Real-Time Monitoring

Organizations are increasingly moving from periodic readings toward continuous monitoring and alerts.

Connected Smart Meters

Smart meters are becoming an important part of digital water infrastructure because they can provide more frequent and automated consumption data.

Cloud-Based Platforms

Cloud platforms can bring data from multiple locations into one centralized system, making it easier to monitor distributed water infrastructure.

Predictive Maintenance

Data from connected equipment can help identify potential performance issues before they become major operational problems.

The Future of Smart Water Management

The future of water management will depend increasingly on connected infrastructure and better use of data.

As more sensors, smart meters, and IoT devices are deployed, organizations will have access to more detailed information about their water networks. Combining this information with IoT device management, IoT gateways, analytics, automation, and AI can create more responsive water management systems.

The goal is not simply to collect more data. The goal is to turn that data into useful actions that improve efficiency, reduce waste, and support sustainable water use.

Conclusion

A smart water management system combines sensors, smart meters, IoT devices, communication networks, IoT gateways, and software platforms to monitor and manage water more effectively.

The system collects water data, transfers it through connected infrastructure, analyzes consumption patterns, and provides useful information for faster decision-making. IoT device management helps organizations maintain and monitor connected devices, while the IoT gateway provides an important link between field devices and central platforms.

From buildings and industries to cities and public infrastructure, smart water technologies can support better visibility, faster problem detection, efficient resource use, and more sustainable water management.