Chinese retailer JD.com has launched an accelerator called AI Catapult, which hopes to develop artificial intelligence (AI) and blockchain technologies. The accelerator will partner with start-ups to create and test real-world applications of their technologies at scale. The start-ups will work within various parts of JD.com's retail and logistics businesses. "JD is in a unique position to explore the potential of AI and blockchain in global commerce," said Bowen Zhou, VP of JD.com's AI platform and research division. "We are excited to work with some of the world's most innovative startups to explore ways we can scale these cutting edge technologies for the future of retail and other industries, as well."