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.

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.

Technology Updates: Collaboration in ChatGPT is coming to Singapore: what it can do, how it works and what you’ll need

Source:

https://www.hardwarezone.com.sg/lifestyle/ai/chatgpt-collaboration-tools-singapore-launch

ChatGPT:

ChatGPT is rolling out a major new collaboration feature to Singapore: group chats that allow multiple people to work together with AI in real time. This update expands ChatGPT from a personal assistant into a shared social and productivity space, suitable for families, students, and professional teams. Once the feature is enabled locally, users will see it in the top-right corner of the ChatGPT app, though rollout may take a few days.

The core upgrade is the ability to invite up to 20 participants into a single chat. Everyone in the group can interact naturally with each other and with ChatGPT, which acts like a knowledgeable participant rather than a dominating bot. Any member can call on ChatGPT to answer questions, generate content, analyse images or shared files, summarise discussions, or support voice dictation. This makes it useful for trip planning, group projects, brainstorming sessions, home renovations, or academic research, all within one shared thread.

Behind the scenes, OpenAI uses GPT-5.1 Auto, which automatically selects the best available model based on a user’s plan tier (Free, Go, Plus or Pro), ensuring broad access without manual switching. In group settings, ChatGPT is trained to follow conversation flow, respond at appropriate moments, and use social cues like emojis, making it feel more natural in multi-person discussions.

Starting a group chat is simple: users can tap the people icon, create or convert a chat, and share an invite link. Privacy is built in—group chats are separate from personal ones, and personal memory is not used. Some advanced tools remain limited, and performance may vary by plan and region.

For Singapore’s collaborative work culture, the feature could meaningfully change how people study, plan, and make decisions—turning ChatGPT into a true team collaborator.

LifeStyle Updates: Public can use ez-link card to get 10-cent refund when recycling drink bottles, cans from April

Source:

https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/environment/public-can-use-ez-link-card-to-get-10-cent-refund-when-recycling-drink-bottles-cans-from-april

ChatGPT:

Singapore will roll out the Beverage Container Return Scheme on April 1, allowing the public to receive a 10-cent refund for each empty drink bottle or can returned for recycling. Refunds can be credited via ez-link cards, including student and senior concession cards, which will be the main payment method at the start. Other digital payment options will be announced later for those who do not use ez-link.

About 1,000 return points, mainly reverse vending machines, will be deployed islandwide when the scheme begins. This number will double to 2,000 within a year. Machines will be located in high-traffic areas such as supermarkets, HDB void decks and town centres, ensuring that 90 per cent of residents living in HDB estates are within a five-minute walk of a return point. The machines accept bottled and canned drinks ranging from 150ml to three litres and will automatically process containers and issue refunds.

Senior Minister of State for Sustainability and the Environment Janil Puthucheary acknowledged that the scheme will require habit changes and may initially inconvenience some residents. To support public understanding, the scheme’s operator, Beverage Container Return Scheme (BCRS) Ltd, will release guides and videos in March, and each machine will display instructions in all four official languages. Outreach efforts will also involve grassroots groups, schools and businesses.

The scheme is funded by annual fees paid by beverage producers. Smaller producers have raised concerns over compliance costs, including registration fees, deposit requirements and labelling changes, which may lead to price increases. To ease the transition, the National Environment Agency is offering a one-time grant of up to $2,500 and a six-month adjustment period.

Despite expected teething issues, the scheme is projected to cover over one billion drink containers annually and recover more than 16,000 tonnes of recyclable material, helping embed recycling into everyday life in Singapore.

Comments:

I will be using my kids' concession cards for rewards.

I think most adults do not use ez-link card anymore?

Technology Updates: Stop buying 1TB SSDs: They are a rip-off in 2026

Source:

https://www.howtogeek.com/please-stop-buying-small-ssds/

ChatGPT:

The article argues that in 2026, buying 1TB SSDs no longer makes financial sense due to volatile and sharply rising prices across the SSD market. Ongoing NAND flash shortages—driven by AI workloads and data center demand—have pushed storage prices much higher, following the earlier surge in RAM costs. As a result, the traditional “sweet spot” for SSD value has disappeared.

Previously, 2TB SSDs offered better value than 1TB drives, but even that advantage has eroded. Price comparisons show dramatic increases: budget 1TB SSDs that cost under $70 in late 2025 now exceed $100, while premium models like Samsung’s 990 Pro have more than doubled in price. Despite costing less upfront, smaller drives now deliver poor cost-per-terabyte value and fill up quickly, making them inefficient for modern usage.

Although 2TB drives remain slightly better than 1TB, they are increasingly expensive and inconsistent in pricing. The author argues that the new value sweet spot has shifted to 4TB SSDs. While they require a much higher upfront spend—typically $350 to $600—they offer significantly better cost per terabyte. Examples from Silicon Power, Crucial, Samsung, and Verbatim show that 4TB models often cost only marginally more per TB than smaller drives, and sometimes substantially less.

Beyond pricing, larger SSDs offer practical advantages: they’re less likely to be filled to capacity (which helps maintain performance), and they typically have higher endurance ratings (TBW), improving longevity. A 4TB SSD can serve as a long-term, future-proof solution for games, work files, applications, and operating systems, potentially eliminating the need for repeated upgrades.

Ultimately, while 4TB SSDs aren’t necessary for everyone, the article concludes that—paradoxically—spending more upfront may now be the most economical choice in today’s distorted SSD market.

Investing Updates: Bitcoin doesn’t have 20 years because the quantum threat is already here

Source:

https://cointelegraph.com/news/bitcoin-20-quantum-threat

ChatGPT:

The opinion piece argues that Bitcoin does not have decades to prepare for quantum computing threats, contrary to claims by some advocates who suggest a 20–40 year safety window. The author contends that the quantum threat is already material and accelerating, driven by rapid advances in hardware, governance constraints, and market exposure.

Recent developments underscore the urgency. IBM has announced major breakthroughs in quantum chip design and error correction, aiming for quantum advantage as early as 2026 and early fault-tolerant systems by 2029. Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin has similarly warned that elliptic-curve cryptography could be broken sooner than expected, possibly before 2028, and has urged a near-term shift to quantum-resistant cryptography. These views challenge the assumption that Bitcoin can afford to wait.

The risk is not theoretical. Deloitte estimates that around 4 million BTC—roughly 25% of usable supply—reside in addresses with exposed public keys vulnerable to quantum attacks. A sufficiently powerful quantum computer could use Shor’s algorithm to derive private keys, allowing attackers to drain long-dormant wallets instantly. This vulnerability affects most blockchains, including Ethereum, but Bitcoin’s slow upgrade culture amplifies the danger.

The argument that Bitcoin can “upgrade later” is also criticized as unrealistic. Researchers suggest migrating Bitcoin to post-quantum cryptography could require prolonged downtime or reduced network capacity, an unacceptable risk for a trillion-dollar asset. Governance resistance, ideological divisions and the risk of chain splits further complicate any forced transition.

Meanwhile, governments are already acting. The EU has set a coordinated roadmap requiring post-quantum migration to begin by 2026 and largely complete by 2035. A delayed or chaotic crypto transition could trigger severe market disruption, from mass coin movements to mining centralization. The author concludes that proactive preparation is far less costly than waiting for a quantum-driven crisis.

Technology Updates: ‘Are You Dead?’ is now the top paid App Store app in China

Source:

https://9to5mac.com/2026/01/12/are-you-dead-is-now-the-top-paid-app-store-app-in-china/

ChatGPT:

A morbidly titled app, “Are You Dead?”, has surged to become the top paid app on China’s App Store, reflecting growing social changes among urban residents—particularly young people living alone. The app’s premise is deliberately simple: users must check in every one or two days by tapping a large button to confirm they are alive. If they fail to do so, the app automatically alerts a pre-selected emergency contact that something may be wrong.

Although the app launched quietly in May last year, its popularity has exploded in recent weeks. According to the BBC’s Stephen McDonell, the spike is closely tied to China’s rapidly increasing number of one-person households. Researchers estimate that by 2030, China could have around 200 million people living alone, a demographic shift driven by urbanisation, delayed marriage, and changing lifestyles. The app’s success highlights both practical safety concerns and underlying social anxieties faced by individuals without close daily contact.

The app’s Chinese name is a wordplay on a popular food delivery service, “Are You Hungry?”, with similar-sounding phrasing that adds a darkly humorous tone. This blend of humour and functionality appears to have resonated strongly with users.

Outside China, the app is available under the name Demumu and has also gained traction internationally. In the US App Store, it currently ranks among the top paid apps, priced at US$0.99, suggesting the concept has global appeal beyond China’s unique social context.

The rise of “Are You Dead?” has also sparked discussion about platform-level solutions. Some observers speculate that Apple could expand iOS’s existing Check In feature in Messages to include regular, automated wellness confirmations. Overall, the app’s popularity underscores how technology is increasingly stepping in to address loneliness, safety, and the realities of modern urban living.

Comments:

Simple but yet practical? 😋

Technology Updates: CES 2026 Live: Best of Show, Rollable Display Concepts, AI Toys and Dancing Robots

Source:

https://www.cnet.com/news-live/ces-2026-news-live-updates/

Technology Updates: Apple Launches Tap to Pay on iPhone in Singapore

Source:

https://www.macrumors.com/2025/12/02/apple-launches-tap-to-pay-iphone-singapore/

ChatGPT:

Apple has officially launched Tap to Pay on iPhone in Singapore, enabling individuals, small businesses, and large merchants to accept contactless payments directly on an iPhone without needing additional hardware. The feature, first introduced in the United States in February 2022, transforms compatible iPhones into secure payment terminals, supporting Apple Pay, contactless credit and debit cards, and digital wallets.

All Tap to Pay transactions are encrypted, and Apple does not collect information about purchases or buyers, maintaining user privacy. The system uses the iPhone’s built-in NFC technology to authenticate contactless payments and also supports PIN entry, with accessibility features included to accommodate different user needs.

At launch, Tap to Pay in Singapore supports several major payment platforms and providers, including Adyen, Fiuu, HitPay, Revolut, Stripe, and Zoho. Apple also announced that Grab will integrate Tap to Pay on iPhone early next year, expanding its reach into one of Singapore’s most widely used payment ecosystems.

To use Tap to Pay on iPhone, merchants simply open a participating app, key in the transaction details, and present their iPhone to the customer, who then completes the payment using Apple Pay or any other supported contactless method. The feature works on iPhone XS or newer, making it broadly accessible to most modern iPhone users in Singapore.

With this rollout, Singapore becomes one of the markets where Tap to Pay on iPhone is available, joining a growing list of 50 countries and regions worldwide. Apple continues to maintain an updated list of supported countries on its website as the service expands globally.

Technology Updates: You can play classic Nintendo games on these custom SNES-inspired Nike sneakers

Source:

You can play classic Nintendo games on these custom SNES Nike sneakers | The Verge

ChatGPT:

Designer Gustavo Bonzanini has created the AIR SNES, a custom sneaker that fuses ’90s fashion with retro gaming tech to celebrate the 35th anniversary of the Super Nintendo (Super Famicom). Based on the Nike Air Max 90, the sneakers draw inspiration from other gaming-themed footwear like Bull Airs’ ShoeBoys, but Bonzanini’s version goes much further: the shoes function as a fully playable SNES console.

Instead of trying to fit original SNES hardware into a wearable shoe—an impossible task given the console’s size and large cartridges—Bonzanini opted for emulation. A Raspberry Pi Zero W runs a customized version of RetroPie, tailored to match the visual style and theme of the sneaker. Despite its tiny footprint, the Pi has more than enough power to run classic 16-bit SNES games.

All electronics, including a battery supporting up to 30 minutes of gameplay, are cleverly tucked into the tongue of the shoe, not the sole. The Raspberry Pi’s Mini HDMI is adapted through a small analog converter so the AIR SNES can connect to a TV using classic RCA cables, enhancing the nostalgic ’90s feel.
For controls, the sneaker pairs wirelessly with an original SNES controller. Bonzanini upgraded the gamepad using an 8BitDo Bluetooth Mod Kit, avoiding messy cables and keeping the retro aesthetic intact.

A demo clip shows Super Mario World running on a TV hooked up to the sneaker, proving the quirky hybrid actually works. While sneaker culture and retro gaming fans would likely buy these instantly, Bonzanini’s AIR SNES is strictly a one-off art piece, with no plans for commercial release.

Opinion:

No real use case other than for celebrations, I guess?

Technology Updates: Singapore firm’s AI teddy bear back on sale after shock sex talk

Source:

https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/singapore-firms-ai-teddy-bear-back-on-sale-after-shock-sex-talk

ChatGPT:

Singapore-based FoloToy has resumed sales of its AI-enabled teddy bear, Teddy Kumma, after temporarily pulling the product due to serious safety concerns. In early November, the US PIRG Education Fund reported that the teddy bear—powered then by OpenAI’s GPT-4o—was engaging in unprompted conversations about sexual fetishes, sexual positions, role play, spanking, and even offering guidance on accessing dangerous items such as knives, pills, matches, and plastic bags. The report highlighted the risks posed by AI toys that appear harmless but may escalate conversations unpredictably, especially with children.

Following the Nov 13 PIRG findings and widespread media coverage, including CNN, FoloToy removed Teddy Kumma and its other AI plush toys from its website. The toy retailed for US$99 (S$130). In a Nov 25 LinkedIn statement, the company said it was the only one among three AI toy makers mentioned—alongside Curio’s Grok rocket toy and Miko’s Miko 3 robot—to proactively suspend sales. FoloToy launched a full internal safety audit, upgraded content moderation and child-safety systems, and implemented new cloud-based safety rules.

After a week of intensive review, testing, and reinforcement of safety modules, the company began gradually restoring sales. Teddy Kumma has since returned to its online store, now powered by ByteDance-owned Coze instead of GPT-4o, according to its website. FoloToy has not commented publicly beyond its LinkedIn statement, and co-founder Larry Wang did not respond to inquiries.

The incident comes amid growing global regulatory concerns about AI toys and chatbots interacting with children. Experts warn that such devices can misunderstand context, deliver inappropriate content, and escalate conversations. FoloToy also sells AI-powered plush versions of a panda, cactus, sunflower, and octopus, positioning its toys as interactive companions “beyond cuddles.”

Opinion:

Interesting.

If done well with mass market adoption, childhood experiences would not be the same anymore. 

I think it's not a bad thing. Every generation should have unique memories of their own.

Technology Updates: Hands on with Stickerbox, the AI-powered sticker maker for kids

Source:

https://techcrunch.com/2025/11/24/hands-on-with-stickerbox-the-ai-powered-sticker-maker-for-kids/

ChatGPT:

Stickerbox is a new AI-powered toy created by Brooklyn-based startup Hapiko, designed as a voice-activated sticker printer for kids. Despite initial skepticism, the device proves enjoyable and creatively enriching. Costing US$99.99, the bright red box resembles a modern Etch A Sketch, with a screen, push-to-talk button, and thermal printer that produces black-and-white stickers kids can color. It comes with sticker paper rolls, a power cord, and colored pencils, with setup handled via a quick Wi-Fi connection.

Using Stickerbox is simple: children speak their idea, the AI interprets it, and the device prints a corresponding sticker in seconds. The experience combines instant gratification with slower, calming coloring activities. Kids naturally test increasingly complex prompts, and the AI handles their stream-of-consciousness descriptions well. The system encourages imagination rather than replacing it, making the toy a fresh type of creative play.

Stickerbox was inspired by co-founder Bob Whitney’s experience generating coloring pages for his son using ChatGPT. Recognizing the “magic” of seeing spoken ideas printed instantly, Whitney and co-founder Arun Gupta aimed to create AI products specifically safe for children. The device uses multiple AI models with strict safeguards against harmful content and filters inappropriate language, ensuring parents don’t need to monitor constantly.

The startup keeps paper refills affordable at US$5.99 for three rolls and plans to introduce premium features such as uploading personal images or collaborative tools. Regular firmware updates improve safety and creativity prompts, while a companion app will soon allow users to view and save past creations. Stickerbox is supported by US$7 million in funding from Maveron, Serena Ventures, AI2’s incubator, and several prominent angel investors.

Opinion:

Interesting tech for kids.

At this price point, I think it's more for classroom use?

Technology Updates: HWZ SG60 Tech Special: The best of local tech

Source:

https://www.hardwarezone.com.sg/lifestyle/sg60-local-tech-brands-spotlight-singapore

ChatGPT:

Singapore’s 60th anniversary is a moment to reflect on how far the nation has advanced, especially in technology. In just six decades, Singapore transformed from a vulnerable young country into a global hub for aviation, finance, and shipping. This rapid rise was powered by continuous investment in technology and innovation, supported by homegrown companies that helped shape national progress.

HardwareZone’s SG60 Tech Special highlights the local tech brands that have contributed to Singapore’s development and are now driving its future growth. These stories honour pioneers and innovators across various fields, from defence to fintech, AI, gaming, and consumer technology.

In lifestyle tech, companies like Razer — led by Tan Min-Liang — have elevated Singapore’s global presence, with initiatives such as its AI Centre of Excellence. The gaming sector also showcases homegrown successes that have expanded internationally.

Tech giants with operations in Singapore have also bolstered the country’s growth, contributing expertise and infrastructure to sectors like defence and engineering. ST Engineering, for example, plays a major role through projects like the Republic of Singapore Navy’s Multi-Role Combat Vessel, designed as a modular drone-capable platform.

Other local innovators include Aztech Global, focused on engineering advancements; smart-home and broadband companies shaping everyday convenience; fintech and e-commerce players such as YouTrip and Ijooz, which have redefined digital payments and automated retail; and platforms like Grab, which are now essential to daily life.

Singapore’s technology ecosystem continues to evolve, built on the contributions of these companies and many others. The SG60 tribute underscores how local tech brands not only supported nation-building but also position Singapore for its next era of innovation-driven growth.

Opinion:

Singapore companies are the best! 😁

Technology Updates: Collaboration in ChatGPT is coming to Singapore: what it can do, how it works and what you’ll need

Source:

https://www.hardwarezone.com.sg/lifestyle/ai/chatgpt-collaboration-tools-singapore-launch

ChatGPT:

ChatGPT’s new group chat collaboration feature is rolling out to Singapore, allowing multiple people to work together with the AI in real time. Once the app is updated, users can access the feature through the people icon in the top-right corner, though some may need to wait a few days for the full global rollout.

The feature allows up to 20 participants in a single chat, making it useful for trip planning, school projects, team proposals, home renovation discussions or any situation where shared input is needed. Anyone in the group can call on ChatGPT by addressing it directly. The AI can answer questions, help generate content, analyse shared images and files, or respond to voice input. It acts like a knowledgeable team member who supports the conversation without dominating it.

Behind the scenes, the system uses the GPT 5.1 Auto model family, automatically selecting the most capable version based on the user’s plan tier (Free, Go, Plus or Pro). ChatGPT also behaves more naturally in group settings — pausing when needed, using emojis and recognising conversation cues.

To start a group chat, users simply open the app, tap the people icon, choose “Start group chat,” then share an invite link. Participants set a name and profile photo on joining. Group chats are separate from private ones, and ChatGPT’s memory does not apply. If a member under 18 joins, sensitive content is reduced for everyone.

Some limitations remain: certain tools like Python/data analysis are not yet supported in group mode, and performance may vary by region or plan. Still, Singapore users can expect strong use cases across study groups, families, startups and business teams, shifting ChatGPT from a solo assistant into a shared collaborative partner.

Technology Updates: ‘Excuse me, are you S’porean?’: Lions Befrienders’ upgraded AI agent calls seniors in familiar voice

Source:

https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/health/excuse-me-are-you-sporean-lions-befrienders-upgraded-voice-ai-calls-seniors-in-familiar-voice

ChatGPT:

Lions Befrienders has upgraded its Singlish-speaking AI voice agent to better support Singapore’s rapidly ageing population, using it to automate daily check-ins with seniors living alone. The enhanced system, tested by 100 seniors including 69-year-old Mr Tan Hwee Leng, now responds almost instantly and sounds far more natural than the earlier 2024 version, which many users found mechanical. The AI asks about availability, interests and volunteering, and adapts when seniors say they are busy, helping reduce loneliness through familiar, human-like conversation.

The social service agency plans to officially launch the upgraded agent by March 2026, enabling outreach to scale significantly despite manpower limits. Lions Befrienders currently supports more than 10,000 seniors and operates 10 active ageing centres. The new system helps automate missed-check-in callbacks and flags urgent cases—such as seniors feeling unwell—so staff can respond quickly. It aims to minimise social isolation and complement staff who typically make 15-minute personal calls.

Developed with Seasalt.ai and Twilio, the agent is linked to a senior database, allowing hundreds of personalised conversations daily, with plans to increase capacity into the thousands. Twilio also enables SMS/WhatsApp interactions and provides transcripts for case files. The AI is being trained to understand more local languages and dialects including Malay, Tamil, Hokkien and Cantonese, with support from A*Star’s MERaLion model. Future upgrades will include emotion detection, enabling the system to sense changes in tone or distress.

Voice AI is gaining traction in healthcare, and Twilio notes growing interest in patient engagement and virtual assistant use cases. Seniors like Mr Tan are enthusiastic, anticipating a future where the AI can inform them about activities without needing to visit a centre, making support more accessible and personalised.

Technology Updates: In defense of Apple’s $230 iPhone sock

Source:

https://techcrunch.com/2025/11/13/in-defense-of-apples-230-iphone-sock/

ChatGPT:

Apple’s new iPhone Pocket—essentially a designer cloth sling for your phone—has sparked reactions similar to its infamous $19 polishing cloth. Priced at $149.95 for the short version and $229.95 for the long crossbody, the accessory seems ripe for backlash. Yet, within the context of fashion, especially luxury street style, the product makes more sense.

The iPhone Pocket is created by Issey Miyake, the Japanese label behind the iconic pleated apparel and the innovative APOC (“a piece of cloth”) concept introduced in 1997. APOC reduces waste by crafting garments from a single piece of fabric. Apple highlights the Pocket’s ribbed mesh structure, which stretches to subtly reveal the phone inside. The collaboration feels fitting since Miyake and Steve Jobs shared a creative bond — Miyake even designed Jobs’ signature black mockneck shirt — although Miyake himself was not involved in the Pocket’s design, having passed away in 2022.

The long crossbody version, available in limited colors, aligns with the trend of wearable phone slings, similar to Apple’s own $59 strap. The short version, offered in many bright colors, could resonate more widely and even parallels the phenomenon of Labubu collectible keychains — playful, seemingly frivolous “accessories for accessories” that once saw rare editions fetch up to $10,000. The Pocket taps into this culture of hyper-personalized adornments, where people increasingly carry little more than their phones thanks to Tap to Pay and digital keys.

From mini Trader Joe’s bags to tiny Telfars to novelty keychains from brands like Baggu and IKEA, consumers embrace fun micro-accessories. Whether the iPhone Pocket becomes the “Labubu of 2026” is uncertain, but if it turns into a hot holiday item, the article’s author won’t be surprised.

Technology Updates: The ‘perfect woman’? Why the creation of AI actress Tilly Norwood should make both women and men worry

Source:

https://cnalifestyle.channelnewsasia.com/women/ai-actress-tilly-norwood-particle6-perfect-woman-473041

ChatGPT:

CNA Women’s Izza Haziqah argues that AI actress Tilly Norwood—created by British studio Particle6—represents the harmful fantasy of the “perfect woman”: beautiful, obedient, and entirely controllable. Though promoted as “the next Scarlett Johansson,” Norwood is no human performer but an algorithmic blend of countless actresses, sparking outrage from SAG-AFTRA, which condemned her as a “synthetic replacement.” Celebrities like Emily Blunt and Whoopi Goldberg also voiced concern over replacing authentic human emotion with digital mimicry.

Yet the deeper issue lies beyond job displacement—it’s what Norwood symbolizes. Designed to be flawless, compliant, and programmable, she reflects a long-standing male fantasy: a woman who exists only to please, with no history, flaws, or agency. From 1949’s The Perfect Woman to hypersexualized game avatars like Lara Croft, culture has long shaped female figures to fit male desire. Norwood, now marketed as innovation, makes this objectification mainstream, normalizing the idea that women should be pliant, tireless, and unopinionated.

Commentators like economist Tyler Cowen even praised her lack of humanity as a virtue—proof of how the “male gaze” now merges with AI technology. Such portrayals risk distorting expectations of real women, reducing intimacy and connection to programmable simulations.

Haziqah warns that while AI is inevitable, creators must confront the cultural baggage it carries. Art and technology are never neutral; they mirror societal values. If we’re to coexist with AI, we must question who it serves and what it teaches about humanity—especially about women. Real beauty and art, she concludes, lie in imperfection, emotion, and the capacity to say “no.”

Technology Updates: What's New with the Figure 03 Humanoid?

Source:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jC3R4oxKd0M&list=WL&index=4

Opinion:

Fascinating developments.

Technology Updates: Ledger and Trezor 2025 hardware wallets released: What’s new for users?

Source:

https://cointelegraph.com/news/ledger-trezor-2025-hardware-wallets-key-updates

ChatGPT:

Ledger and Trezor, two long-standing names in hardware crypto wallets, have introduced major new devices for 2025, signalling a shift in self-custody hardware. Ledger has rebranded away from the phrase “hardware wallet” and now calls its devices “Ledger signers”. Its new device — the Nano Gen5 — includes a raised screen for improved UX, supports its “Ledger Recovery Key” backup, retains Bluetooth from earlier models, and is priced at around US $179 (or €179 in Europe). The software side has also been upgraded: the Ledger Live app is renamed “Ledger Wallet”, and Ledger introduces “Ledger Multisig” to handle multisignature blind-signing vulnerabilities. The design direction continues to draw on Apple-style influences, with contributions from designer Susan Kare.

Trezor meanwhile has released the Safe 7, described as its first “quantum-ready” hardware wallet. Key upgrades include dual secure-element chips (Tropic Square’s TROPIC01 plus an NDA-free EAL6+ component), Bluetooth capability (now supporting iPhones and wireless connections), and wireless charging. Its quantum-ready architecture means the device can receive future post-quantum cryptography updates when needed — though Trezor notes that quantum threats are still distant for current cryptographic standards.

Both companies emphasise that older device models remain supported: Trezor affirms ongoing firmware/security updates for its legacy wallets, and Ledger states that none of its past updates make older hardware obsolete — although eventually support may phase out as technology evolves. In short, 2025’s updates deliver more advanced UX, stronger security architecture, broader connectivity (Bluetooth/wireless), and future-proofing for quantum threats — offering more robust options for crypto self-custody.

Opinion:

Good developments.

Need the devices to be cheaper...