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...

Technology Updates: ChatGPT Atlas browser puts AI right where you need it, but can you trust it?

Source:

https://www.cultofmac.com/news/chatgpt-atlas-browser-puts-ai-right-where-you-need-it

ChatGPT:

OpenAI has launched ChatGPT Atlas, a new browser for Mac that embeds its AI chatbot directly into users’ web experiences. The free browser allows users to access ChatGPT on any site without switching tabs — for example, while browsing Airbnb listings, one could instantly ask the AI to plan a trip or suggest nearby activities. For paying users, an agent mode can perform more advanced tasks, though OpenAI acknowledges potential security and reliability risks.

OpenAI emphasizes that Atlas was designed with safety and transparency in mind. Agent mode cannot access other Mac apps, install extensions, or act on sensitive websites without user confirmation. A logged-out mode limits data exposure, and users can control which pages the AI can view. Despite these protections, OpenAI admits that AI agents remain vulnerable to malicious instructions embedded in webpages or emails, which could lead to unintended actions or data theft.

Atlas also introduces “browser memories,” which remember details from visited pages to offer smarter responses — such as building to-do lists or continuing research. These memories, along with search queries, stay private to the user’s ChatGPT account and can be reviewed, archived, or deleted anytime. OpenAI states that it does not use this data for training unless users opt in.

CEO Sam Altman describes Atlas as a reimagining of how browsers can integrate AI, calling it a “once-a-decade opportunity” to reinvent web interaction. Currently available on macOS for all ChatGPT users (Free to Pro tiers), Atlas will soon expand to Windows, iOS, and Android, promising a seamless blend of browsing and AI assistance — albeit one that still requires cautious use.

Opinion:

Will be using it as part of the trifecta of browsers; Safari, Chrome and now ChatGPT Atlas.

Will see if there's any differences between the web version and this.

Entertainment Updates: Singapore Population by Town

Source:

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DOBShwzEzUh/?igsh=c3VtNnl1eHZhd3Ry

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: Flustered by jargon in financial documents? Digital tool Redflags aims to be go-to guide

Source:

https://www.straitstimes.com/tech/concerns-over-investment-linked-plans-behind-redflags-a-digital-tool-that-dissects-financial-papers

ChatGPT:

Young consumers often struggle to understand complex financial documents, leading to costly mistakes. This was the experience of 25-year-old Teo Yi Ki, who bought an investment-linked insurance policy (ILP) with her first pay cheque, only to later discover restrictive terms. Her experience inspired her and five teammates to create Redflags, a digital tool designed to simplify financial jargon and highlight key details in product documents.

The team met during the Sparks x Build for Good Community Hackathon in June 2024 and built Redflags using Google’s Gemini large-language model, strengthened with guardrails to ensure accuracy. The tool analyses documents, summarises them, and categorises information into high, medium, and low importance based on advice from senior financial experts. Critical details like fees, coverage, risks, and returns are flagged in red, while disclaimers and administrative notes are ranked lowest. Importantly, Redflags does not judge products as good or bad but instead empowers users with clarity.

A Straits Times test of a 31-page ILP summary showed how Redflags translated dense terms into plain language, explaining risks such as potential capital loss and high costs of early termination. The tool revealed 18 key points of high importance in that document alone.

The launch comes amid rising concerns about ILPs. Complaints to the Financial Industry Disputes Resolution Centre surged from 55 in 2023 to 211 in 2024, many citing mis-selling or poor disclosure. A survey by the Redflags team found young adults often skim contracts and struggle with hidden fees and jargon.

Looking ahead, Redflags aims to partner financial advisory associations to enhance credibility and may eventually connect users with trusted advisers, helping make finance more transparent and less intimidating.

Food Updates: iBoozee Launches Asia’s First Smart Robotic Juice Machines in Singapore

Source:

https://alvinology.com/2025/09/18/iboozee-launches-asias-first-smart-robotic-juice-machines-in-singapore/

ChatGPT:

iBoozee Launches Asia’s First Smart Robotic Juice Machines in Singapore

iBoozee, an ASEAN Award-winning innovator in F&B technology, has introduced Asia’s first Smart Robotic Mixed Fruit Juice and Apple Machines in Singapore, marking a milestone in its mission to make healthy living convenient and accessible. Featuring Dual Fruit Dispensing Technology, the machines freshly press apple juice, orange juice, or customised blends on demand. Each cup contains the equivalent of 3–4 fruits with no added sugar, water, or preservatives, appealing to busy urban consumers seeking wellness on the go.

The machines incorporate advanced features: robotic processing (washing, cutting, squeezing in real time), transparent preparation, IoT monitoring for sales and inventory, cashless transactions via PayNow, NETS, cards and e-wallets, plus rigorous hygiene with self-cleaning systems and airtight fruit storage.

According to COO Deric Yeo, iBoozee’s mission is to make wellness simple, affordable, and part of everyday life, whether for students, professionals, or parents. With a target of 500 units across Singapore by 2027, initial deployments will focus on high-traffic areas such as offices, shopping malls, transport hubs, and the CBD. Expansion plans also include Indonesia and the Philippines, complementing its existing presence in Malaysia.

Beyond consumer health, iBoozee is offering entrepreneurial opportunities via licensing, supported by real-time data analytics to guide optimal placement and performance. The company positions its machines not only as a retail solution but as a lifestyle business for professionals, retirees, and aspiring entrepreneurs.

Showcased at Franchise & Licensing Asia 2025 (Marina Bay Sands, 18–20 September), iBoozee highlights its vision of 24/7 accessible wellness, combining technology, hygiene, and entrepreneurship to redefine juice vending in Singapore and beyond.

Opinion:

Competitor to iJooz?

More variety is a good thing for consumers.