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 😆

LifeStyle Updates : LG Subscribe comes to SG: Will you pay a monthly subscription to use your fridge or washing machine?

Source : 

https://www.hardwarezone.com.sg/lifestyle/lg-subscribe-home-appliance-subscription-singapore-price-comparison

ChatGPT : 

LG has launched LG Subscribe, Singapore’s first home appliances subscription service, with a physical store at Suntec City. Customers can select appliances with no upfront payment, and instead pay a monthly fee over 3, 5, or 7 years. At the end of the contract, you own the product.

What sets LG Subscribe apart:

- Includes extended warranties (up to 7 years)

- Bundles regular maintenance and servicing

- Two care options:

- Self Care: DIY maintenance kits and consumables sent regularly

- LG Careship: In-person professional servicing

- Launch promo: Free 1-year Redmart+ membership (until 30 Sep 2025)

Example: For the LG Objet Tankless Water Purifier WD518AN, LG Subscribe costs more overall than retail, but includes warranty and filter costs, unlike traditional instalment plans.

Bottom line: You pay more, but get peace of mind through servicing and warranty coverage.

Opinion : 

Interesting concept.

It's probably worth a consideration if you're aiming for a real "atas" device.

If not, spoil, throw and replace is still practical? 😋

Technology Updates : Apple Maps Debuts First Southeast Asia Detailed City Experience In Singapore

Source : 

https://geekculture.co/apple-maps-debuts-first-southeast-asia-detailed-city-experience-in-singapore/

ChatGPT : 

Apple Maps has launched its Detailed City Experience in Singapore, the first country in Southeast Asia to receive the update. The new features include custom 3D landmarks like Gardens by the Bay and Lau Pa Sat, enhanced road markings, clearer navigation aids for drivers and public transport users, and windshield views for complex interchanges. The update also introduces night mode with dynamic lighting. These improvements aim to enhance navigation, safety, and visual clarity for locals and tourists alike.

Opinion : 

It looks nice.

If it could bring colours that match the household blocks, this would guide people to find their destinations.

Wonder if AI could do the colour mapping 🤔

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 : Switch 2 Accessory Attaches McDonald's Fries to the Console

Source : 

https://gamerant.com/switch-2-accessory-mcdonalds-fries-holder/

ChatGPT : 

A creative fan, user7R135, has made a 3D-printable accessory called GamiFries that lets Nintendo Switch 2 players attach a McDonald's fries container to the console or controller. Shared on MakerWorld, it comes in two modes: handheld (mounts beside the screen) and controller mode (replaces the grip). It mimics McDonald's red branding and even frames the logo. While amusing, it’s unofficial and not for sale—users must print it themselves. However, caution is advised, as food near electronics could cause damage or attract pests.

Opinion : 

Weird technology... 😂

Innovative but weird.

Gamers should walk around more for toilet and food 😚

Technology Updates : You can hide an AirTag in Skechers’ new kids’ shoes

Source : 

https://www.theverge.com/news/716076/find-my-skechers-shoes-apple-airtag-tracking

ChatGPT : 

Skechers has released a new line of kids' shoes called Find My Skechers, which includes a hidden compartment under the insole designed to securely hold an Apple AirTag. This allows parents to track their children discreetly and safely.

- The AirTag compartment is recessed in the midsole, covered by a fabric liner and screw-in lid, making it tamper-resistant and safer for toddlers.

- The shoes come in multiple styles and sizes for kids from toddlers to age 8.

- There’s no visible branding to indicate an AirTag is inside, making the shoes a covert tracking option.

- Compared to external AirTag accessories, this built-in solution is more secure and less likely to be removed or lost.

It’s a practical option for parents who want added peace of mind while their kids are out and about.

Opinion : 

Interesting idea.

Just not sure if it will make AirTag less durable 😋

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.

Technology Updates : Hotels Are Staffing Robots—and Guests Are Freaking Out

Source : 

https://decrypt.co/328073/hotels-staffing-robots-guests-freaking-out

ChatGPT : 

Summary: Hotels Are Staffing Robots—and Guests Are Freaking Out

Hotels worldwide are increasingly deploying humanoid robots for tasks like check-in and room service to cut labor costs and offer contactless service. While some guests enjoy the novelty, many find the robots unsettling—especially when they appear too human, triggering the “uncanny valley” effect. Japan’s Henn-na Hotel, a pioneer in robot staffing, went viral again after a guest’s uneasy encounter with a humanoid robot.

Despite mixed reactions and past technical failures, the hospitality robot market is booming—expected to reach $2.2 billion by 2030. Chains like Marriott, Hilton, and Crowne Plaza now use delivery robots, while behind-the-scenes AI is increasingly being used to streamline operations. Experts say the real change lies not in robot faces at reception, but in intelligent automation that improves efficiency without removing the human touch.

Technology Updates : Polyclinic patients to trial AI tool that reads heart rate and blood pressure with just a phone camera

Source : 

https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/health/polyclinic-patients-to-trial-ai-tool-that-reads-heart-rate-and-blood-pressure-with-just-a-phone

Apple Intelligence : 

• AI Tool Functionality: DeepHealthVision uses a phone camera to measure heart rate and blood pressure by analyzing blood flow in the face.

• Trial Details: The tool will be tested by polyclinic patients in Singapore in collaboration with SingHealth Polyclinics.

• Measurement Accuracy: The tool provides accurate readings regardless of skin color and can be used with various devices like phones, laptops, and tablets.

• Healthcare Monitoring Advancement: DeepHealthVision, a wearable device, enables continuous remote health monitoring, potentially reducing hospitalizations.

• DeepHealthVision Accuracy: Demonstrated 96% accuracy in heart rate and blood pressure readings compared to established devices.

• Pilot Test in Singapore: Around 60 polyclinic patients will participate in a pilot test of DeepHealthVision in the coming months.

• Pilot Test Objective: To assess patient confidence, acceptance, and concerns regarding the use of AI in healthcare.

• Pilot Test Duration and Data Analysis: The pilot test will run for at least a year, with collected data analyzed and peer-reviewed.

• Potential Future Integration: DeepHealthVision, if successful, may be integrated into healthcare apps like Health Buddy.

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.

Technology Updates : Apple Watch excels at some fitness tracking metrics, sucks at others

Source : 

https://www.cultofmac.com/news/apple-watch-calorie-counts

Apple Intelligence : 

• Heart Rate and Step Counting Accuracy: Apple Watch demonstrates high accuracy in tracking heart rate and step count, with mean absolute percentage errors of 4.43% and 8.17%, respectively.

• Calorie Tracking Accuracy: Apple Watch’s calorie tracking accuracy is questionable, with significant discrepancies compared to clinical reference tools.

• Study Methodology: The findings are based on a meta-analysis of 56 studies comparing Apple Watch measurements to gold-standard clinical methods.

• Calorie Burn Estimation Accuracy: Apple Watch showed a mean error rate of 27.96% in calorie burn estimation, which is considered inaccurate.

• Wearable Device Limitations: Wearable devices should be viewed as motivational tools and habit trackers rather than diagnostic devices.

• Apple Watch Improvement: Newer Apple Watch models showed improved accuracy compared to earlier generations.

Entertainment Updates : Filmmakers Used 20 iPhones at Once to Shoot '28 Years Later'

Source : 

https://www.macrumors.com/2025/05/30/filmmakers-used-20-iphones-to-shoot-28-years-later/

Apple Intelligence : 

• Filming Technique: The movie “28 Years Later” was shot using iPhone 15 Pro Max and custom rigs, with some sequences using up to 20 iPhones simultaneously.

• Movie Genre and Budget: “28 Years Later” is a post-apocalyptic British horror movie with a budget of $75 million.

• Technical Support: The filmmakers received technical assistance from Apple.

• Filming Technique: The movie uses iPhones to shoot, paying homage to the original film’s use of camcorders.

• Visual Style: The film aims to immerse the audience in the action, similar to the original movie’s use of standard definition.

• Notable Shot: A 20-rig camera shot is used in the second half of the film, creating a startling and graphic visual effect.

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

Technology Updates : Eney by MacPaw now in beta for Setapp users: An AI companion that completes tasks

Source : 

https://9to5mac.com/2025/05/22/macpaw-eney-ai-companion-now-in-beta-for-setapp-users/

Apple Intelligence : 

• Eney’s Functionality: An AI-powered companion that completes tasks using Setapp apps, accessible through a chat window on the Mac display.

• Eney’s Features: Offers privacy-focused local data processing, a feedback loop for improvement, memory, natural communication, contextual search, and a “wand” feature for screen assistance.

• Eney’s Beta Focus: Initially targets productivity, utility, and cybersecurity tasks, including basic functions like conversions and weather checks.

• Eney’s Functionality: Eney offers file conversion, summarization, image enhancement, background removal, system information, and internet speed tests.

• App Integration: Eney integrates with external apps like CleanMyMac and ClearVPN for a seamless user experience.

• Expert Zone: Eney’s Expert Zone will generate code to complete unsupported tasks.

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