Technology Updates: China uses AI to monitor employees and deduct pay

Source:

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DN6J9PpAD3V/?igsh=a3V3c3MyZGpoZjN5

Technology Updates: Microsoft is giving Copilot AI faces you can chat with

Source:

https://www.theverge.com/news/788741/microsoft-copilot-labs-ai-portraits-experiment-human-avatar

ChatGPT:

Microsoft is experimenting with a new feature called Copilot Portraits, designed to make AI interactions feel more natural and approachable. Available in the US, UK, and Canada through Copilot Labs, the feature introduces 40 stylized human avatars that animate with facial expressions, lip-sync, and head movements during real-time voice conversations. Users can select an avatar and pair it with a voice, creating a more personal experience than text-based chats.

Microsoft AI CEO Mustafa Suleyman explained the feature was created in response to feedback that people feel more comfortable speaking to a “face.” Unlike the earlier Copilot Appearances feature, which used cartoon-like blobs, Portraits focuses on human-inspired designs. Importantly, the avatars are not photorealistic but intentionally stylized to reduce the risk of misuse while still offering expressive variety.

The technology powering Portraits comes from VASA-1, a Microsoft Research project that generates lifelike animations from a single image without the need for complex 3D modeling. This lets Copilot create responsive visual interactions quickly and at scale.

The move follows similar developments from rivals, such as X’s Grok chatbot, which recently introduced customizable 3D avatars, including anime-inspired companions with controversial NSFW options. Microsoft, however, is rolling out Portraits cautiously, citing safety concerns around AI-human interactions. Safeguards include age restrictions (18+), time limits, and clear indicators reminding users they’re talking to AI.

By combining expressive visuals with trusted Copilot intelligence, Microsoft aims to make AI conversations more engaging, while still prioritizing safety and responsible use. The experiment underscores a broader industry trend: turning chatbots into more personable companions that blend utility with emotional connection.

Technology Updates: Creator says AI actress Tilly Norwood is 'piece of art' after Hollywood backlash

Source:

https://cnalifestyle.channelnewsasia.com/entertainment/tilly-norwood-ai-actress-controversy-471921

ChatGPT:

The debut of AI-generated actress Tilly Norwood has ignited controversy in Hollywood, with her creator defending her as “a piece of art” rather than a threat to human jobs. Tilly, a girl-next-door composite described as an aspiring actress on Instagram, quickly went viral and has attracted interest from talent agents. Eline Van der Velden, founder of production company Particle6, said at a Swiss industry panel that the project demonstrates how AI can cut costs and free creativity from budget constraints. Particle6 hopes to position Tilly as a star on par with Scarlett Johansson or Natalie Portman.

Norwood has already appeared in a short sketch, and Van der Velden said an agency deal will be announced soon. She argued that AI should be seen as a tool for storytelling and a new creative medium, not a replacement for actors.

Hollywood’s response has been largely negative. Actress Melissa Barrera urged boycotts of agents who represent AI talent, while Mara Wilson criticized the compositing of real women’s faces instead of hiring them. Emily Blunt described Tilly’s realism as “terrifying” and warned agencies against eroding “human connection.” Whoopi Goldberg echoed these concerns, saying AI creations unfairly draw from thousands of actors’ traits, giving them an advantage over humans.

The backlash reflects broader tensions in Hollywood, where AI use was a key issue during the 2023 writers’ and actors’ strikes. Despite criticism, AI is steadily gaining ground: Spotify-hosted virtual band The Velvet Sundown surpassed one million listeners this summer, and Vogue recently ran an advertisement featuring an AI model.
The debate underscores growing unease over authenticity, fairness, and the future of creativity in an AI-driven entertainment landscape.

Opinion:

AI in entertainment is like pineapple on pizza, everyone’s arguing about it. 

My guess? It’ll take a few more years (and a lot of drama) before entertainers finally swallow the slice.

Technology Updates: Goodbye human pop stars: First AI singer tops Billboard charts, bags a US$3M record deal

Source:

https://vulcanpost.com/897650/first-ai-singer-xania-monet/

ChatGPT:

The music industry has reached a milestone with the rise of Xania Monet, the first AI singer to break into Billboard charts and land a US$3 million record deal. Created by Mississippi R&B songwriter Telisha “Nikki” Jones, Monet made waves in September 2025, debuting at No. 25 on the Emerging Artists list and No. 21 on Hot Gospel Songs with Let Go, Let God. Her breakout single How Was I Supposed to Know topped R&B Digital Song Sales, hit No. 3 on R&B/Hip-Hop Digital Song Sales, and secured No. 22 on the overall chart, amassing 9.8 million streams in the U.S., with over half in a single week.

The success sparked bidding wars, though major labels hesitated amid ongoing lawsuits tied to Suno, the AI platform behind Monet’s music. Smaller labels, however, saw opportunity and pushed the deal to US$3 million. For them, an AI pop star could be a disruptive gateway into the industry, attracting publicity and normalizing AI-generated artists. While major companies tread cautiously, others may lean on AI to produce market-ready performers at scale.

Yet this shift also highlights a new kind of creative partnership. Jones, a poet and songwriter without strong vocal ability, leveraged AI to give her words a powerful musical voice that resonated globally—something impossible only a few years ago. Monet’s rise demonstrates that AI alone is not enough; human talent and direction remain crucial in shaping successful art.

The episode underscores how AI could democratize opportunities for creators, challenging traditional gatekeeping in music while sparking broader debates about authenticity, copyright, and the future role of human performers.

Opinion:

Interesting times ahead. A blend of human and AI musicians could actually work—it sort of makes sense.

The real drama, though, will be in how the money gets split. 

Who gets what: the songwriter, the coder, or the algorithm?

Technology Updates: AI tutors are on the rise. Could they disrupt Singapore's billion-dollar tuition industry?

Source:

https://www.channelnewsasia.com/singapore/ai-tutors-tuition-industry-moe-learning-5357791

ChatGPT:

AI-powered tutors are gaining traction in Singapore, offering parents and students a cheaper and more convenient alternative to the S$1.8 billion tuition industry. Platforms like Tutorly and WizzTutor provide on-demand explanations, practice questions, and feedback tailored to the local syllabus. Tutorly, for example, charges S$49 a month with unlimited resources, while WizzTutor costs S$74 monthly. Established edutech firms such as Geniebook have also seen rising demand, reporting a 25% increase in use of their AI services.

For parents like IT professional Ms Shubhada Bhide, whose son now uses Tutorly, AI tutors are “gamechangers” compared with traditional tuition, which can cost up to S$172 per lesson at top centres. Students appreciate accessibility and affordability, especially when traditional classes are full or expensive.

However, experts warn of risks. The Ministry of Education (MOE) clarified that AI tools are for self-directed learning and not subject to registration under the Education Act, but advised cautious use. Academics stress that AI tutors could promote “shortcut thinking,” where students become reliant on instant answers and fail to build critical skills like analysis and judgment. NUS lecturer Jonathan Sim and NIE’s Dr Wong Lung Hsiang highlighted the importance of pairing AI with human guidance to ensure meaningful learning.

Businesses themselves acknowledge these limits. Tutorly relies on parental oversight, while WizzTutor offers dashboards for parents to monitor usage. Edutech leaders and researchers agree AI cannot replace the motivation and personal touch of human teachers. Instead, hybrid models are expected to grow, with firms like Geniebook expanding both physical centres and AI tools.

Ultimately, AI tutors are disrupting the industry, but human educators remain essential in inspiring, motivating, and guiding students.

Technology Updates: Experts urge caution about using ChatGPT to pick stocks

Source:

https://arstechnica.com/information-technology/2025/09/experts-urge-caution-about-using-chatgpt-to-pick-stocks/

ChatGPT:

The rapid rise of AI chatbots like ChatGPT has extended into investing, with around 13% of retail investors already using AI tools for stock selection, according to an eToro survey of 11,000 people. Nearly half say they would consider using such tools. Unlike algorithmic trading, ChatGPT functions more as an advisory tool: investors ask questions, review analysis, and then trade manually.

Some early results appear impressive. For example, Finder asked ChatGPT in 2023 to pick high-quality stocks, creating a 38-stock portfolio that grew nearly 55%, outperforming top UK funds. Former UBS analyst Jeremy Leung also now uses ChatGPT to support his portfolio, citing its affordability compared with professional data services.

However, experts stress caution. Current strong market conditions—US stocks near record highs and the S&P 500 up 13% this year after 23% last year—make many strategies appear successful. Analysts warn that general AI models lack access to real-time data, can misquote figures, and often rely too heavily on past performance. “The risk comes when people treat generic models like crystal balls,” noted eToro’s UK managing director Dan Moczulski.

AI use continues a long history of tech transforming investing, from Charles Schwab’s electronic trading in 1984 to robo-advisors like Betterment and Wealthfront after 2010. The robo-advisory market itself is forecast to grow 600% by 2029. ChatGPT marks a new phase, enabling direct investor interaction with AI, but with limits—such as no access to paywalled data.

Experts caution that while AI democratizes access to financial insights, reliance on it may leave retail investors unprepared for downturns. As Leung warned, gains in rising markets may vanish if users lack risk management strategies.

Technology Updates: Gemini AI will help you play games on Google Play

Source:

https://www.theverge.com/news/783132/android-gaming-gemini-ai-sidekick

ChatGPT:

Google is integrating its Gemini AI assistant into mobile gaming on the Play Store, offering players real-time help directly within their games. The new feature, called Gemini Live, will appear in a sidebar overlay that launches without leaving the game. Players can ask for hints using voice commands, and Gemini will provide spoken responses tailored to what’s happening on-screen, as the AI can “see” the game in progress.

The rollout begins with select titles over the coming months, mirroring Microsoft’s Gaming Copilot integration for Xbox and Windows 11. By embedding assistance directly into the gameplay experience, Google aims to make guidance seamless, whether players are stuck on a level or looking for strategy tips.

In addition to AI support, the sidebar will offer easy access to rewards, offers, and achievements, giving players a central hub for progress tracking. The update also coincides with Google’s broader gaming initiatives, including the general release of Google Play Games for PC, which allows more than 200,000 mobile titles to be played across platforms.

Other improvements to the Play Store include enhanced game pages that display player progress, achievements, and developer updates in one place. Google is also testing a new community Q&A feature, enabling players to ask questions about specific games directly on their store pages, with fellow gamers providing responses.

Together, these updates position the Play Store as not just a hub for downloads, but a richer ecosystem for gameplay support, cross-platform integration, and community interaction. With Gemini AI at the core, Google is signaling its commitment to making mobile and PC gaming more connected, accessible, and interactive.

Technolog Updates: Everything Announced at Meta Connect 2025 in 20 minutes

Technology Updates: Amazon Just Launched Its Zoox Robotaxis In Las Vegas And We Took A Ride

Opinion:

I think robotics with optimised AI engines will have huge use cases in future.

Technology Updates : From Selfie to Sticker: How I Designed My Own Whatsapp Cute Chibi Sticker with ChatGPT

Source : 

https://goods-wanderers.blogspot.com/2025/07/from-selfie-to-sticker-how-i-designed.html

ChatGPT : 

With AI tools like ChatGPT, anyone can create cute personalised chibi WhatsApp stickers without drawing skills. The process: take a selfie, upload it to ChatGPT with a prompt for 12 chibi expressions and matching outfit, crop the images, then use the Sticker Studio app to cut and save them into sticker packs. The author made stickers for herself and family, noting they’re fast to create and highly customisable. She recommends ChatGPT for best results, as other AI tools produced less appealing designs.

Opinion : 

Nice how to do guide.

Technology Updates : OpenAI launches GPT-5 free to all ChatGPT users

Source : 

https://arstechnica.com/ai/2025/08/openai-launches-gpt-5-free-to-all-chatgpt-users/

ChatGPT : 

OpenAI has launched GPT-5 and its variants (Pro, Mini, Nano), calling it its “best AI yet” with fewer errors, better coding, and ‘safe completions’ for sensitive queries.

Key points:

- Free access for all ChatGPT users (with limits); Plus and Pro get higher or unlimited use. GPT-5 Pro replaces o3-pro.

- Simulated reasoning now available to free users for improved logical/analytical answers.

- Capabilities: best coding model (74.9% SWE-bench), strong in math, multimodal, medical queries (with disclaimers).

- Accuracy: up to 80% fewer factual errors vs. o3; reduced sycophancy from 14.5% to <6%.

- New features: custom chat colors, preset personalities, Gmail/Google Calendar/Contacts integration (Pro), unified “Advanced Voice,” and safe completions instead of hard refusals.

- Developer API: 256k-token context, cheaper Mini/Nano tiers, new tools like free-form function calling and reasoning effort control.

- Rollout: replaces GPT-4o, o3, o4-mini, 4.1, 4.5; enterprise/education access next week; old voice mode retired in 30 days.

Opinion : 

Fascinating.

Note to children - You need to run your life like a GPT 😆

Technology Updates : Unitree Launches Budget-Friendly Humanoid Robot Under $6K | What The Future

Source : 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=43bcvea4HAA

Opinion : 

We're getting closer and closer to each household having a robot of their own.

The technology is exciting and frightening at the same time 😆

Technology Updates : China’s first robot doctorate student to study in theatre & film PhD programme

Source : 

https://mustsharenews.com/robot-doctorate-student/

Apple Intelligence : 

China’s first robot doctorate student, Xueba 01, received admission to Shanghai Theatre Academy’s Drama and Film programme. Designed by Professor Yang Qingqing, Xueba 01 will explore the intersection of traditional opera and artificial intelligence, merging theatre, computer science, and cognitive science. The programme aims to digitally transform drama education through partnerships with Zhiyuan Technology.

Opinion : 

Is this really a good use of robots? 😅

Technology Updates : Commentary: More people are considering AI lovers, and we shouldn’t judge

Source : 

https://www.channelnewsasia.com/commentary/ai-chatbot-love-romance-risk-danger-safety-5249426

ChatGPT : 

AI companion apps are gaining popularity, with millions of users forming romantic bonds with chatbots. While critics fear these relationships could harm human intimacy, ethicist Neil McArthur argues they can be healthy, complementary connections rather than replacements. Risks like poor privacy, harmful behavior, or sudden loss of access need regulation, especially for younger users. Public education is key to understanding AI companions without stigma. Human relationships remain irreplaceable, but AI romances offer a safe space to explore emotions and fantasies.

Opinion : 

Robotics romance coming soon just like the movies? 😉

I think it's possible to have this in future, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Westworld_(TV_series)

I think governance and security will be configured more intricately at an individual level, unlike today.

Technology Updates : New Apple Watch AI Model Can Reveal Hidden Health Conditions

Source : 

https://www.macrumors.com/2025/07/11/apple-watch-ai-model-can-reveal-health-conditions/

ChatGPT : 

Summary:

A new Apple-backed AI model, the Wearable Behavior Model (WBM), uses Apple Watch behavioral data (e.g., sleep, movement, activity patterns) to predict health conditions more accurately than traditional sensor-based methods. Trained on data from 160,000 participants and over 2.5 billion hours of data, it excels at detecting both static health states (like medication use) and transient conditions (like respiratory infections or sleep issues), with up to 92% accuracy for pregnancy when combined with biometric data. This shows the potential of Apple Watch to detect hidden health issues through long-term behavioral trends.

Sports Updates : Player faith in technology shaken by storm around AI line-calling at Wimbledon

Source : 

https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2025/jul/07/player-faith-in-technology-shaken-by-storm-around-ai-line-calling-at-wimbledon

ChatGPT :

Summary: Player faith in technology shaken by AI line-calling at Wimbledon (7 July 2025)

Wimbledon’s first full switch to electronic line-calling (ELC) has been marred by controversy and technical failures, shaking player confidence. Despite claims of improved accuracy (2.2mm margin of error via Hawk-Eye), notable errors and outages have occurred:

- Emma Raducanu and Jack Draper criticized the system after disputed calls in their losses.

- A major incident during Pavlyuchenkova’s match revealed that ELC cameras on one side were accidentally turned off, forcing a point replay. Pavlyuchenkova accused the tournament of “stealing” the game, though she went on to win.

Wimbledon officials insist the system is accurate and blamed human error, promising new safeguards. However, trust in the AI-powered system has declined, especially after shaky rollouts on clay courts earlier in the season. With skepticism growing among players and coaches, it’s unclear if confidence will recover during the rest of the tournament.

Entertainment Updates : Will AI Be Replacing Your Masseur In The Near Future

Source : 

https://www.8days.sg/entertainment/asian/ai-robots-replace-human-masseur-844101

Apple Intelligence : 

• AI Massage Technology: AI robots in China provide massages and use 3D vision to target muscle tension and pressure points.

• Public Reaction: Mixed reactions from netizens, with some expressing concerns about comfort and radiation, while others prefer human touch.

• Availability in Singapore: Similar technology has been available in Singapore since 2019 through the startup AiTreat.

Investing Updates : Millennials and Gen Z Are Using AI to Improve Their Investing—Should You?

Source : 

https://www.investopedia.com/millennials-genz-ai-investing-11717048

Apple Intelligence : 

• AI Adoption in Investing: Millennials and Gen Z are more likely to use AI for investing compared to other generations.

• AI Tools in Investing: AI tools for investing include robo-advisors, chatbots, and analytics engines.

• AI-Driven Investment Management: 41% of millennials and Gen Z would trust an AI assistant to manage their investments.

• AI Adoption in Investment: Millennials and Gen Zers are significantly more comfortable using AI tools for investment management compared to older generations.

• AI Usage in Personal Finance: A large percentage of Gen Zers and millennials utilize AI for managing personal finances, including saving, budgeting, and credit score improvement.

• AI-Powered Investment Tools: Retail investors have access to a variety of AI-enabled tools, such as robo-advisors, algorithmic trading bots, AI-powered ETFs, and AI assistants, to simplify the investment process.

• AI in Investment: AI tools like Kavout’s K Score use deep learning to analyze equities and investor sentiment.

• AI Benefits: AI can remove human error, process vast amounts of data, and provide personalized investment advice.

• AI Risks: AI models may struggle with unexpected market shifts, lack transparency, and pose data privacy concerns.

• AI in Personal Finance: AI is already being used in personal finance by Millennials and Gen Zers.

• AI-Powered Financial Tools: Robo-advisors, AI-powered ETFs, and AI research assistants are available for financial management.

• Limitations of AI in Finance: AI should complement, not replace, sound financial judgment.

Technology Updates : We Tested Google Veo and Runway to Create This AI Film. It Was Wild. | WSJ

Technology Updates : Chinese AI-Powered Robots Show Off Fighting Skills