Editor's note: Welcome to the inaugural edition of our weekly top stories roundup. Here's where you can see what's being read across InnovationMap. This week, futuristic gift ideas, DNA dating, top events, and more are catching the eyes of our readers.
10 futuristic products you can buy today in this Galleria store that's flipping the script on retail
B8ta has all the perks of a digital marketplace — but customers are able to physically test all the products. Photo by Natalie Harms
B8ta, which has its lone Houston store in the Galleria, will stock any types of products in its stores, as long as it fits the bill as an innovative product. Here are 10 that seem like are from the future. Read the full story here.
5 can't-miss Houston events for entrepreneurs to close out 2018
Check out these conferences, shopping events, networking, and more. Getty Images
Before most of Houston completely checks out for the holidays, the city is playing host to a few major innovation-focused events. Learn from thought leaders, network, and even shop at these five events taking place this week and next. Read the full story here.
Houston DNA-based dating app expands nationwide, launches next funding round
Pheramor takes users' DNA and social media habits and matches them with compatible partners. Courtesy of Pheramor
Houston singles can find their perfect match — even if it's someone across the country. Houston-based Pheramor — a DNA-based dating app — is available for download in every state. Read the full story here.
Life Time reveals details of first Houston coworking space
Houston snags only the third location of Life Time Work. It opens in City Centre early next year. Courtesy of Life Time
Houston is just the third city to be chosen to have a location of Minnesota-based Life Time's new coworking center. Life Time Work should be open in early 2019 in City Centre Five, adjacent to Life Time Athletic. Read the full story here.
3 Houston innovators to know this week
These three entrepreneurs are in the business of solving problems. Courtesy photos
Entrepreneurs see a problem, and solve it. This week's three innovators to know are no different. All three have personal stories of realizing there's something not right — and there's something they could do about it. Read the full story here.