Technology Updates : People are using Super Mario to benchmark AI now

Source:

https://techcrunch.com/2025/03/03/people-are-using-super-mario-to-benchmark-ai-now/

Apple Intelligence:

• Game Performance: Anthropic’s Claude 3.7 performed the best, followed by Claude 3.5. Google’s Gemini 1.5 Pro and OpenAI’s GPT-4o struggled.

• Game Mechanism: The game ran in an emulator and integrated with a framework, GamingAgent, to give the AIs control over Mario.

• Reasoning Model Performance: Reasoning models performed worse than “non-reasoning” models, despite being generally stronger on most benchmarks.

• AI Benchmarking Limitations: Games, while useful for benchmarking AI, have limitations as they are abstract, simple, and offer infinite data, unlike the real world.

• Evaluation Crisis in AI: Recent gaming benchmarks highlight a lack of clear metrics to assess the true capabilities of AI models.

• Uncertainty in AI Model Performance: There is a lack of clarity regarding the actual performance and capabilities of current AI models.

Technology Updates : Windows 11 pirates have a new and unlikely ally — Microsoft Copilot

Source:

https://www.windowscentral.com/software-apps/windows-11/windows-11-pirates-have-a-new-and-unlikely-ally-microsoft-copilot

Apple Intelligence:

• Copilot’s Role: Microsoft Copilot can provide a script to activate Windows 11 without a license.

• Activation Method: Copilot offers a how-to guide with a script to activate the operating system.

• Ethical Concerns: This feature raises security and ethical concerns related to piracy.

• Windows Activation Method: Microsoft Copilot shared a method to activate Windows 11 without a license, which is not new but unusual to be shared by Microsoft’s own tool.

• Method Warning: Copilot provided a warning about the potential risks of using unauthorized activation methods, including violating Microsoft’s terms of service and potential legal consequences.

• Security Risks: Copilot highlighted the security risks associated with using activation scripts, such as the potential for malware or other malicious software.

• Software Activation Risks: Unauthorized activations can lead to system instability, lack of support, and security vulnerabilities.

• Ethical Concerns: Using activation scripts is considered software piracy and unethical.

• Security Risks of Running Unknown Code: Executing code from unknown sources, like GitHub, can lead to malware infections.

Investing Updates : Tiger Brokers adopts DeepSeek model as Chinese brokerages, funds rush to embrace AI

Source:

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/tiger-brokers-adopts-deepseek-model-070602587.html

Apple Intelligence:

• DeepSeek Integration: Tiger Brokers integrated DeepSeek’s model into its AI-powered chatbot, TigerGPT.

• DeepSeek Adoption: At least 20 Chinese brokers and fund managers have started integrating DeepSeek models into their businesses.

• DeepSeek’s Impact: DeepSeek’s integration with Tiger Brokers will enable customers to analyze valuations, make trading decisions, and gain insights into investments.

• AI Adoption Impact: Rapid AI adoption is expected to boost financial IT spending by 24% in five years, benefiting vendors like Hundsun, Northking, and iSoftStone.

• DeepSeek R1 Influence: The launch of DeepSeek R1 is anticipated to accelerate GenAI adoption in the financial industry in 2025, particularly in data-heavy and labor-intensive areas.

• TigerGPT Enhancement: TigerGPT’s investment assistant has been upgraded with DeepSeek integration, enhancing logical reasoning and market analysis capabilities.

• AI Application in Finance: AI helps financial companies utilize vast amounts of data for better management, marketing, and investing.

• DeepSeek Model Adoption: Financial institutions are actively discussing the adoption of DeepSeek’s models for internal use.

• Data Utilization: AI enables financial companies to make better use of previously unused data.

Technology Updates : ByteDance’s new AI model goes viral for its deepfake capabilities that animate photos

Source: https://www.scmp.com/tech/big-tech/article/3297500/bytedances-new-ai-model-goes-viral-its-deepfake-capabilities-animate-photos

Apple Intelligence:

• AI Model Capability: ByteDance’s OmniHuman-1 model can create realistic videos of people speaking, singing, and moving.

• Model Performance: The model significantly outperforms existing audio-conditioned human video-generation methods.

• Model Development: ByteDance researchers developed a novel training strategy that combines diverse data sets of text, audio, and movement.

• Video Generation Capabilities: Generates realistic videos with varying aspect ratios, body proportions, and detailed facial expressions.

• Realism and Applications: Features natural head and gesture movements, unlocking potential real-world applications.

• Competition in the Market: Chinese tech firms, including ByteDance, Kuaishou Technology, Zhipu AI, Shengshu Tech, and MiniMax, are competing in video generation.

Opinion:

Really realistic Albert Einstein deepfake.

Creations like these will definitely blur the lines between real and fake information.

I think there will be a desire for more deepfake detection tools.

Technology Updates : Unitree's G1 Humanoid Robots are RUNNING Now

Opinion:

I think AI Robotics is a huge area of technology that can benefit humankind. 

I hope it can severely reduce injuries from manual labor jobs. 

Many use cases are practical. Pray AI will not turn on us like what many Hollywood movies show 😆

Investing Updates : February's Must-See Financial Events: Nvidia and Alphabet Earnings, Inflation Data

URL: https://www.moomoo.com/community/feed/113922953969670?global_content=%7B%22promote_content%22%3A%22mm%3Afeed%3A113922953969670%22%2C%22invite%22%3A103096561%7D&is_recommendation=0&is_recommend_pos=0&futusource=news_headline_list

DeepSeek:

Summary of February's Key Financial Events:

January Recap:

U.S. stocks surged in January, with the S&P 500 reaching a record high of 6,128 (up 3.22% by Jan. 30). Major tech firms like Tesla, Meta, Microsoft, and Apple kicked off earnings season, while Chinese equities rallied sharply (+8.1% for the NASDAQ Golden Dragon China Index) driven by advancements in AI models.

February Highlights:

1. Earnings Spotlight: 

   - Alphabet (Google): Reports post-market on Feb. 4. Investors will focus on growth in Google Services/Cloud, 2025 guidance, and potential impacts of AI developments (e.g., DeepSeek).  

   - Nvidia: Releases results on Feb. 26. Key focus includes demand for its high-end AI chips amid competition from cost-efficient alternatives like DeepSeek, AI industry trends, and implications for semiconductor sector valuations.  

2. Macroeconomic Events:

   - Feb. 7: U.S. non-farm payrolls and unemployment data.  

   - Feb. 12: CPI inflation report.  

   - Feb. 19: FOMC meeting minutes release.  

   These indicators will clarify the U.S. economic outlook and shape expectations for the Fed’s rate-cut trajectory, influencing market volatility.

Why It Matters:

Alphabet and Nvidia’s earnings could signal tech sector health and AI momentum, while inflation and labor data will affect monetary policy bets. Investors will reassess risks and opportunities in equities amid evolving macroeconomic and competitive landscapes.

Opinion:

All eyes on U.S. CPI and Nvidia results. 

DeepSeek has caused some fear in U.S.

As ever, expect the unexpected. Might turn ultra bearish or bullish anytime.

Technology Updates : Are AI Robot Dogs Replacing Humans In Performing Lion Dances?

URL: https://www.8days.sg/entertainment/asian/ai-robots-replace-humans-perform-lion-dances-840396

Apple Intelligence:

AI-powered robot dogs are performing lion dances in China, sparking debate among netizens about job displacement and the future of human performers. While some find the robotic performances cute, others express concern about AI’s impact on traditional arts and potential future threats.

Opinion:

Nice idea. I kind of support it. Less injuries for humans? 😅

Technology Updates : Microsoft’s Update Decision—Google Disappears On PCs, Androids, iPhones

URL: https://www.forbes.com/sites/zakdoffman/2025/01/26/microsoft-just-made-google-disappear-on-your-iphone-android-and-pc/

DeepSeek:

In a recent development, Microsoft has implemented updates that effectively make Google disappear from search results on Bing, both on PCs and mobile devices. This move is seen as part of the ongoing rivalry between Microsoft and Google, with Microsoft attempting to limit Google's dominance in the search and browser markets. When users search for "Google" on Bing, they are presented with a "Promoted by Microsoft" search box, reducing the need to navigate to Google. This tactic follows Microsoft's earlier attempt to mimic Google's search results interface, which was later reversed.

Microsoft is also making it harder for users to find and download Google Chrome via Bing, further intensifying the competition. These updates, while clever, are unlikely to significantly dent Google's market dominance, as the real game-changer is expected to be AI-driven search innovations. Both companies are heavily investing in AI, with Google advancing its Gemini AI and Microsoft rebranding its Office suite to "Microsoft 365 Copilot," integrating AI features. However, Microsoft's rebranding has faced criticism for being confusing and poorly executed.

In addition to these competitive maneuvers, Microsoft has introduced a controversial update that keeps users logged into their accounts by default, raising security concerns, especially on shared or public devices. Users are advised to use private browsing to mitigate risks.

The ongoing rivalry between Microsoft and Google highlights the high stakes in the tech industry, particularly as AI continues to evolve and potentially reshape the landscape of search and productivity tools. Both companies are leveraging their strengths—Microsoft in productivity software and Google in search and browsing—while experimenting with new strategies to gain an edge. However, the ultimate winner may be determined by who can best harness AI to revolutionize user experiences.

Opinion:

Intricate battles between Big Tech. I think the constant re-branding is not ideal. Just use numbering systems unless there's a major change...

Technology Updates: The Cutest AI Robot is Just a Baby: Hands-on with TCL Ai Mi Companion Concept

Happy New Year 2025! 😀

Image generated by Gemini

Investing Updates: Apple Poised to Become First $4 Trillion Company Amid Investor Optimism on Product Surge

URL: https://www.moomoo.com/community/feed/113719285579782?global_content=%7B%22promote_content%22%3A%22mm%3Afeed%3A113719285579782%22%2C%22invite%22%3A103096561%7D&is_recommendation=0&is_recommend_pos=1&futusource=news_headline_list

Gemini summarized:

Apple's stock price has been on the rise recently, reaching a record high of $258. This has led to speculation that Apple could become the first company to reach a market valuation of $4 trillion.

Analysts are optimistic about Apple's future, citing factors such as strong holiday season sales for the iPhone 16 series, anticipation of a major iPhone upgrade cycle, and Apple's plans to pivot toward artificial intelligence, robotics, and smart homes.

However, there are also some concerns about Apple's stock price, such as its high price-to-earnings ratio and the potential for retaliatory tariffs from China.

Overall, the outlook for Apple is positive, but there are some risks to consider.

Investing Updates: Google’s Willow vs Bitcoin: Are Your Coins Safe?

URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=olJ7eI_Co7w&list=WL&index=2&t=113s

Technology Updates : Google adds watermarks and notes in AI generated content

URL: https://www.hardwarezone.com.sg/tech-news-google-watermarks-ai-generated-content-promote-trust

Here's a brief summary of the article:

Google has introduced a new tool called SynthID, developed by Google DeepMind, to watermark AI-generated content.

This tool embeds digital watermarks into AI-generated images, audio, text, or video, making it easier to identify and verify the authenticity of such content.

The watermarking process is imperceptible to humans but detectable by software, helping to combat misinformation and plagiarism.

SynthID has been integrated into Google's Gemini AI model and is now open-source, allowing developers to use it in their own projects.

"Interesting development from Google. I see this being quite important as more and more people debate on what's original and what's not."

Investing Updates : Race to 4 Trillion

URL: https://www.moomoo.com/community/feed/113384926740486?is_recommendation=0&is_recommend_pos=1&futusource=news_headline_list

The Moomoo article discusses the competition among tech giants Apple, Amazon, Microsoft, and Alphabet to reach a $4 trillion valuation. It highlights each company's growth strategies and market influence, with a focus on how innovation, acquisitions, and market diversification may influence which firm reaches this milestone first.

Technology Updates : Tesla 'We, Robot' Event

👍

Technology Updates : AI, Dead Celebrities

URL: https://www.straitstimes.com/business/with-ai-dead-celebrities-are-working-again-and-making-millions

OpenAI

The article from The Straits Times discusses how artificial intelligence (AI) is being used to revive the careers of deceased celebrities, allowing them to generate significant income posthumously. Here are the key points:

1. AI Voice-Cloning: Companies like ElevenLabs are using AI to clone the voices of deceased celebrities such as James Dean, Judy Garland, and Laurence Olivier. These AI-generated voices are used to narrate books, articles, and other text materials.

2. Digital Human Acting: AI technology enables the creation of digital humans, allowing deceased celebrities to appear in new films and immersive stage shows. For example, James Dean has been cast in the upcoming movie “Return to Eden.”

3. Lucrative Industry: The use of AI has proven to be highly profitable. Michael Jackson’s estate, for instance, has amassed a fortune of $2 billion through various projects, including posthumous albums and a jukebox musical.

4. Intellectual Property: The revenue from a deceased celebrity’s intellectual property, such as music copyrights and images, can now increase thanks to AI, reversing the previous trend of declining income after their death.

Technology Updates : Big Tech AI Photo

URL: https://www.theverge.com/2024/9/23/24252231/lets-compare-apple-google-and-samsungs-definitions-of-a-photo

OpenAI

The article from The Verge compares how Apple, Google, and Samsung define and enhance photos using their respective smartphone cameras. Here’s a brief summary:

1. Apple: Focuses on natural-looking photos with minimal post-processing. The iPhone’s camera aims to capture images that closely resemble what the human eye sees, emphasizing true-to-life colors and details.

2. Google: Uses advanced AI and computational photography to enhance images. The Pixel phones often produce photos with vibrant colors and high dynamic range, sometimes altering the scene to make it look more appealing.

3. Samsung: Strikes a balance between Apple’s natural approach and Google’s AI enhancements. Samsung’s Galaxy phones offer vivid colors and sharp details, with options for users to adjust the level of enhancement according to their preferences.

The article highlights the different philosophies each company has towards photography, reflecting their broader approaches to technology and user experience.

My Thoughts

• I think the norm in future is that every photo is expected to be edited to some extent.

• Without edits, people will think it looks weird.

• It's not a bad thing. Especially if you are an unskilled photographer like me 😂

Investing Updates : Apple Impact

https://www.moomoo.com/sg/learn/detail-new-ai-models-set-to-launch-what-s-next-for-apple-107538-240963059

OpenAI

1. Apple plans to unveil the iPhone 16 with built-in AI features, including ChatGPT-4o integration, at a product launch event in September.

2. The new AI capabilities are expected to drive an upgrade cycle, with Apple positioned as a leader in consumer AI applications.

3. Market analysts are optimistic, predicting the new product launches could boost Apple's market value beyond $4 trillion.

4. Apple is in discussions to invest in OpenAI, aiming to strengthen its AI development.

5. While Apple’s stock often dips after new iPhone announcements, it typically rebounds within 60 trading days as demand solidifies.

My Thoughts

• Exciting times for tech near year end as new products are prepared for holiday season

• The Apple event has been quite influential to the market since that defining moment by Steve Jobs for iPhone.

• AI phones are the next big thing. I think it will be good.

Technology Updates : AI Partner

https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/east-asia/marrying-your-virtual-partner-era-of-ai-companionship-dawns

OpenAI

1. AI companionship is growing, with apps like Zeta and Replika offering virtual friends, family members, or lovers, especially among Korean youth.

2. These apps, such as Replika, have millions of users who form deep emotional bonds with their AI companions, sometimes mitigating loneliness and suicidal thoughts.

3. Virtual partners can provide consistent companionship and emotional support, leading to unique relationships, including marriages.

4. AI is also being used in elderly care to combat loneliness, with AI dolls assisting with daily tasks and emotional needs.

5. Experts caution about the psychological impacts, potential attachment disorders, and the need for regulations to prevent misuse.

My Thoughts

• Technologies change the world for the better, Classic slogan. If humans have an emotional issue and AI is the solution, it is the right thing to do. Or should we do it right?

• I think there's a balance to using the tech, just like many things. The right amount cures. Overdose kills.

• Governors of the tech would get it tough. Because I think there will be cases where right or wrong is not so clear. Erroneous judgements may cast doubt on the tech. But I think it's a small price to pay if it serves the majority well.

Technology Updates : Geekbench for AI

https://www.theverge.com/2024/8/15/24221382/geekbench-ai-benchmark-software

OpenAI

1. Geekbench has launched Geekbench AI, a new tool to benchmark device performance for AI tasks across platforms.

2. It evaluates CPU, GPU, and NPU performance using frameworks like ONNX, CoreML, TensorFlow Lite, and OpenVino.

3. The tool provides three scores: full precision, half precision, and quantized, each with an accuracy measurement.

4. The software aims to assess real-world AI performance, like predictive text accuracy or image editing capabilities.

5. Geekbench AI is available on Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS for users to try out.

My Thoughts

• Interesting tool. Very useful if it maintains objectivity across platforms.

• Like SpeedTest, hope that we can derive useful data to determine what device we should buy based on our usage patterns.

• But I think we are still far off on standardisation to get accurate benchmarks. The AI models are releasing products and getting upgrades at very fast paces.