Gaming Updates: Apple Arcade is adding Oceanhorn 3 and three more new games

Source:

https://9to5mac.com/2026/02/10/apple-arcade-is-adding-oceanhorn-3-and-three-more-new-games/

ChatGPT:

Apple Arcade has announced four new games arriving in March 2026, led by the highly anticipated release of Oceanhorn 3: Legend of the Shadow Sea. The action role-playing game launches on March 5 and will be available across iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple TV and Apple Vision Pro. Developed over five years, the new instalment continues the popular Oceanhorn franchise and promises a fresh adventure for both longtime fans and newcomers.

According to series creator Heikki Repo, the game represents the culmination of years of passionate development in collaboration with Apple. He described it as a rich new world filled with compelling characters and an unforgettable story. Apple highlighted the game’s “stunning console-quality visuals” along with innovative traversal and combat mechanics, positioning it as a major addition to the platform’s growing catalogue.

Alongside Oceanhorn 3, three additional titles will debut on March 5. Pocket Love!+ is a life simulation game, while Flow Free+ brings its well-known puzzle gameplay to the service. The fourth title, Doraemon Dorayaki Shop Story+, is a sweet shop simulation game featuring the beloved Doraemon franchise. Each title carries the “+” designation, indicating enhanced versions tailored for Apple Arcade.

These new releases follow the recent addition of Civilization VII and expand Apple Arcade’s library to over 200 games. All titles on the platform are ad-free and contain no in-app purchases, a key selling point for subscribers.

Apple Arcade is available for US$6.99 per month as a standalone subscription or as part of the Apple One bundle, which packages multiple Apple services together.

Comments:

Nice additions recently.

Is Apple starting to get serious in gaming? 🤔

It's giving me more reasons to keep my subscription. Let's wait and see.

Entertainment Updates: Realtor reveals ‘truth about S’pore’s unspoken class system’ based on home addresses

Source:

https://mustsharenews.com/unspoken-class-system/

ChatGPT:

A Singapore realtor has sparked online discussion after sharing what he described as the country’s “unspoken class system”, arguing that social hierarchy in Singapore is often reflected more by home addresses than by outward displays of wealth. In a TikTok video posted on Feb 3, realtor Luke Lim broke down what he sees as a location-based social structure shaped by years of observing the property market.

At the top of his hierarchy are what he called “old money” families, associated with exclusive neighbourhoods such as Nassim, Queen Astrid and Chatsworth. These areas are characterised by large landed homes, quiet streets and families who have lived there for generations. Below them are the “new elites”, who reside in prime districts like Orchard, Novena, Newton and Marina Bay. This group was portrayed as wealthier in a more visible and modern way, often associated with luxury cars, high-rise living and city views.

Next, Luke described a “cool crowd” living in areas such as Robertson Quay, Holland Village and Bugis. He characterised these residents as stylish, media-savvy and culturally influential, often appearing prominently on social media. Further down the spectrum, he highlighted heartland neighbourhoods including Jurong, Tampines, Bedok and Punggol, calling them the “heart of Singapore”. Residents there were described as hardworking “hustlers” who keep the country running.

The video ended humorously with a joke about Yishun being a “special category”, which further resonated with viewers. Netizens largely responded positively, praising the light-hearted and non-judgmental tone. Luke later clarified that the video was meant to share observations from his decade-long real estate career in a relatable way, stressing that higher-priced areas benefit from better amenities and infrastructure, but ultimately emphasising that true class is defined by character, not one’s address.

Comments:

Interesting and Creative.

Yishun joke though... 😅

Investing Updates: CNA Explains: What's driving Singapore's exceptional economic growth, and can it last?

Source:

https://www.channelnewsasia.com/singapore/gdp-ai-trade-manufacturing-economy-5919481

ChatGPT:

Singapore’s economy has recorded exceptional growth for two consecutive years, expanding 5.3 per cent in 2024 and 5 per cent in 2025 — the first time since 2010 and 2011 that it has sustained above 5 per cent growth for two straight years. This performance exceeded earlier government forecasts, prompting the Ministry of Trade and Industry (MTI) to upgrade projections twice in 2025. For 2026, growth is now expected at 2 to 4 per cent.

The strong expansion was driven primarily by manufacturing, wholesale trade, and finance and insurance. In particular, surging global demand for artificial intelligence (AI)-related electronics significantly boosted the electronics and machinery segments. Pharmaceuticals also outperformed expectations due to high-value production, while construction remained resilient with strong project pipelines. Economists highlighted broad-based growth supported by robust foreign direct investment, safe-haven capital inflows, and accommodative financial conditions.

Singapore also benefited from relatively lower US tariffs compared to regional peers, as semiconductors and pharmaceuticals were largely exempt. Additionally, global firms front-loaded production and exports ahead of tariff hikes, further lifting activity.

Economists described the growth as unusual for a mature, developed economy, especially since it was not driven by recovery from a crisis. Similar AI-driven gains were seen in Taiwan, Malaysia, Vietnam and Indonesia, reflecting a wider regional electronics boom.

However, sustaining 5 per cent growth may be difficult due to a high base effect, external risks, softer labour market conditions and moderating momentum in late 2025. While analysts believe growth could exceed 3 per cent if Singapore successfully strengthens its position as an AI hub, matching the recent 5 per cent pace is considered unlikely. Nonetheless, officials remain optimistic that AI will remain a key long-term growth pillar.

Comments:

Singapore is conservative? It's in our roots 😋

I'm more concerned about the upcoming and future TFR data. Imo, it has a deep impact on future generations and society norms.

Technology Updates: Move over, Ghibli – caricatures are the next ChatGPT trend

Source:

https://www.straitstimes.com/life/move-over-ghibli-caricatures-are-the-next-chatgpt-trend

ChatGPT:

A new AI-driven trend has emerged, with users generating portrait-style caricatures using ChatGPT and other generative AI tools like Google Gemini. Moving beyond the earlier Ghibli-style image craze, this latest trend involves users entering the prompt: “Create a caricature of me and my job based on everything you know about me.” Users are then asked to upload a selfie. Those who have an established interaction history with the AI may receive more personalised results, while others are prompted to provide additional details about their occupation, interests, personality traits, and even home environment.

The resulting images resemble street artist caricatures commonly found at tourist spots. They feature semi-exaggerated facial traits and depict individuals engaged in their professions or hobbies. The images are often highly detailed, incorporating elements such as pets, work tools, or aspects of the user’s lifestyle. Influencers and professionals worldwide have embraced the trend, echoing past waves of AI-generated portrait fads.

However, privacy experts warn that the trend reflects a growing normalisation of sharing personal information with AI platforms. In 2023, experts highlighted the potential security and privacy risks of providing sensitive data to external AI providers. Concerns include emotional dependency on AI and the erosion of self-awareness as users increasingly rely on such tools for creative and personal expression.

US-based lawyer Jessica Eaves Mathews cautioned that what appears to be harmless fun contributes to large-scale data collection. She warned that sharing detailed personal information could make individuals easier to track and target. As AI companies rely heavily on data to refine their systems, she reminded users that “free” services are not truly free, as users ultimately pay with their data, attention and participation.

Comments:

It's cool.

But I prefer the Ghibli style photos.

Because it's not self-centred and is able to include family.  😊

Technology Updates: Atome Singapore app now allows payments in Malaysia

Source:

https://www.hardwarezone.com.sg/lifestyle/apps/atome-singapore-app-compatible-malaysia-merchants

ChatGPT:

Atome has expanded the functionality of its Singapore app to support cross-border payments in Malaysia, a long-awaited update that significantly enhances its usefulness for travellers and cross-border shoppers. Previously, the Atome Singapore app could only be used with merchants within Singapore. With this update, its 1.5 million Singapore users can now make payments at over 15,000 Atome-partnered retail outlets and malls across Malaysia.

The payment process in Malaysia mirrors the experience in Singapore. Users simply scan the merchant’s Atome QR code at the cashier or counter to complete a transaction. While the bill and payment input screen are displayed in Malaysian Ringgit (MYR), the app also shows the final payable amount in Singapore Dollars (SGD). Atome states that the currency conversion is done automatically at a “competitive rate,” offering users greater transparency on their spending.

Importantly, these cross-border transactions are fully compatible with Atome’s A+ Rewards Points loyalty programme, allowing users to continue earning rewards even when shopping overseas. In addition to Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) instalment plans, the app also supports full upfront payments, making Atome a flexible alternative payment method rather than just a deferred payment option.

To mark the launch of this feature, Atome is running a promotional campaign from 11 to 28 February 2026. During this period, Singapore app users who transact in Malaysia stand a chance to win a “red packet” via a lucky draw, with prizes including S$888 and cashback of S$88, subject to terms and conditions.

Users can identify participating merchants by looking for decals indicating that the Singapore app is accepted. Atome has also published an official list of compatible Malaysian merchants, including at least 37 consumer electronics chains, giving shoppers a wide range of spending options.

Comments:

Nice addition.

Exchange rate needs to be favourable and not far off from YouTrip, Trust Card, etc to be useful.

Portfolio Updates

Made some refinements to portfolio as follows:

• Cryptocurrencies target lowered to 10% allocation
• 3067.HK added to portfolio for 5%

Bitcoin volatility is having quite an impact. Quantum computing risk is real, but I think a solution will be figured out eventually.

China tech progress is pretty good imo. I think it's worth to add an ETF that's concentrated on China tech equities.

Continue to DCA according to your plan everyone. Don't let the headlines and fear get into you 😊

Investing Updates: What to Expect in the Week Ahead (Earnings from Robinhood, Coinbase and Shopify; Jobs Data and CPI)

Source:

https://www.moomoo.com/t/news/post/65279866/72zVvUJvaa

ChatGPT:

The coming week is set to be pivotal for markets as a backlog of U.S. economic data—delayed by a recent government shutdown—finally comes out. Investors will closely watch labor market and inflation readings for clues on the Federal Reserve’s next policy move, alongside a heavy slate of corporate earnings and remarks from Fed officials.

The key macro focus begins Wednesday with the release of January nonfarm payrolls, which will provide updates on job creation, unemployment, and wage growth. This is followed on Friday by the January Consumer Price Index (CPI). Headline CPI is expected to hold at 2.6% year-on-year, while core inflation is forecast to ease slightly from 2.7% to 2.5%, potentially reinforcing expectations for future rate cuts.

Earnings season remains active. On Tuesday, Robinhood reports Q4 and full-year 2025 results after delivering strong growth earlier in the year, driven by higher trading volumes, expanding net interest income, and rising user engagement. Revenue is expected to grow over 30% year-on-year in Q4. Wednesday brings Shopify’s results, with solid double-digit EPS growth and nearly 27% revenue growth expected as e-commerce demand remains resilient. On Thursday, Coinbase reports earnings amid expectations of year-on-year declines in revenue and profit, reflecting tougher comparisons despite elevated crypto market activity.

Market volatility remains elevated. Last week saw the Dow Jones Industrial Average surge past 50,000 for the first time, while the S&P 500 and Nasdaq ended slightly lower. Bitcoin fell below US$70,000, and precious metals experienced sharp swings. Among individual stocks, Palantir impressed with accelerating revenue and a 138% jump in total contract value, while AMD and Amazon declined on weaker guidance despite strong headline results.

Overall, the combination of inflation data, jobs numbers, and major earnings updates is likely to drive market direction in the week ahead.

Entertainment Updates: Baldur’s Gate TV Series Set for HBO, Will Be a Continuation of Baldur’s Gate 3's Story

Source:

https://sea.ign.com/baldurs-gate-iii/238348/news/baldurs-gate-tv-series-set-for-hbo-will-be-a-continuation-of-baldurs-gate-3s-story

ChatGPT:

A Baldur’s Gate television series is officially in development at HBO, with the show set to continue the story of Baldur’s Gate 3, Larian Studios’ critically acclaimed and multi-award-winning RPG. Reported by Deadline, the series will be set after the events of the game and follow familiar characters as they deal with the consequences of its world-altering ending, marking a rare case of a TV adaptation acting as a direct narrative continuation rather than a retelling.

The project will be led by Craig Mazin, co-creator of HBO’s The Last of Us, who brings extensive experience adapting beloved video games for television. Mazin has described himself as a devoted fan of both Baldur’s Gate 3 and Dungeons & Dragons, revealing he has spent nearly 1,000 hours in the game. He said it is a “dream come true” to continue the story created by Larian Studios and Wizards of the Coast, and pledged to bring the characters and world to life with care and respect.

While the series is not tied to any upcoming Baldur’s Gate games, Mazin will have creative freedom over the story he tells. The show is expected to feature a mix of returning and new characters from BG3, raising fan speculation about appearances by favourites such as Shadowheart, Karlach, and Astarion. Mazin is also reportedly open to involving the original game cast, similar to how The Last of Us brought back game actors for key roles.

One major challenge will be deciding which version of Baldur’s Gate 3’s many possible endings becomes canon for the show. With Mazin still focused on future seasons of The Last of Us, the series may be some time away, but anticipation is already high.

Entertainment Updates: Stunning Cinematic Platformer 'Planet Of Lana 2' Leaps Onto Switch 1 & 2 Next Month

Source:

https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2026/02/stunning-cinematic-platformer-planet-of-lana-2-leaps-onto-switch-1-and-2-next-month

ChatGPT:

Planet of Lana II: Children of the Leaf, the visually striking sequel from Wishfully Studios and publisher Thunderful, is set to launch on both Nintendo Switch and the upcoming Switch 2 on 5 March 2026. Revealed in a new release-date trailer, the game continues to impress with its cinematic presentation and refined puzzle-platforming gameplay.

Alongside the release announcement, the developers confirmed a free demo is on the way. PC, PlayStation and Xbox players will be able to try the demo from 11 February, while Switch and Switch 2 owners will receive it at a later, yet-to-be-announced date. Even so, the full release is now just a month away for Nintendo players.

The latest trailer puts the spotlight on the game’s lush, hand-painted visuals while showing expanded gameplay mechanics. Central to this is Mui, Lana’s small but versatile companion, whose abilities have evolved significantly. In Children of the Leaf, Mui can transform into different forms — including a fish and a flying insect — pilot robots, and channel electrical currents, adding fresh layers to environmental puzzles and traversal.

Narratively, the sequel builds on the original’s emotional core. As greed and power divide the tribes of their home planet, Lana and Mui must work together to confront the forces reshaping their world. Their journey across the planet Novo blends ancient mysteries with new threats, testing both the player’s problem-solving skills and the bond between the two protagonists.

The game promises a broader story, more challenging puzzles, and deeper companion mechanics, all enhanced by an orchestral soundtrack and richly detailed environments. With its predecessor praised in 2024 as a standout cinematic platformer, expectations are high that Planet of Lana II will deliver another memorable experience when it arrives next month on Switch and Switch 2.

Technology Updates: OpenAI is hoppin’ mad about Anthropic’s new Super Bowl TV ads

Source:

https://arstechnica.com/information-technology/2026/02/openai-is-hoppin-mad-about-anthropics-new-super-bowl-tv-ads/

ChatGPT:

OpenAI and Anthropic publicly clashed after Anthropic launched a provocative new ad campaign criticising advertising in AI chatbots, including two commercials set to air during Super Bowl LX. The ads, part of Anthropic’s “A Time and a Place” campaign, depict users seeking personal advice from human stand-ins for AI, only to be interrupted by intrusive product pitches. Each spot ends with the tagline: “Ads are coming to AI. But not to Claude.”

The campaign drew sharp responses from OpenAI leadership. CEO Sam Altman called the ads “clearly dishonest,” accused Anthropic of being “authoritarian,” and argued they misrepresent how ChatGPT plans to introduce ads. OpenAI recently began testing ads in a lower-cost ChatGPT tier, but Altman stressed these would appear as clearly labelled banners at the bottom of responses and would not alter the chatbot’s answers. Chief Marketing Officer Kate Rouch echoed this view, saying the real issue was control rather than advertising.

However, OpenAI’s own blog notes that ads may be shown when there is a “relevant sponsored product or service based on your current conversation,” a detail that adds nuance to Anthropic’s critique. The dispute reflects deeper financial and philosophical differences. OpenAI faces heavy costs after signing massive infrastructure deals and relies largely on free users, while Anthropic depends more on enterprise contracts and subscriptions and has so far avoided ads.

Tensions are heightened by history: Anthropic was founded by former OpenAI employees and has recently gained traction with developers through its Claude Code product. Altman framed the debate as one about access versus restriction, accusing Anthropic of tightly controlling AI use. Anthropic, meanwhile, maintains that Claude is ad-free for now, though it leaves open the possibility of revisiting that stance in the future.

Overall, the spat highlights growing competition—and differing visions—for how AI should be funded and governed.