Monthly Archives: May 2024

PR Newswire

Casio to Release G-SHOCK-Surfrider Foundation Collaboration

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Features Recycled Manufacturing Scraps for Resin Bezel and Band

TOKYO, May 15, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Casio Computer Co., Ltd. announced today the release of the latest addition to the G-SHOCK family of shock-resistant watches. The new G-5600SRF is designed in collaboration with the Surfrider Foundation, a group committed to protecting our oceans.

G-5600SRF
G-5600SRF

Founded in California in 1984, the Surfrider Foundation is now an international environmental non-government organization with some 250,000 supporters active in 23 countries around the world. Sharing the foundation’s doctrine of protecting the oceans we love and leaving beautiful seas for the future and recognizing that G-SHOCK is a brand loved by surfers, Casio collaborated with Surfrider Foundation on a total of seven models between 1995 and 2010.

Artwork designed by Yusuke Hanai
Artwork designed by Yusuke Hanai

This eighth collaboration, the G-5600SRF, is a shock-resistant watch featuring a bezel and band made with recycled resin scraps recovered from Casio manufacturing facilities. The scrap resin is finely shredded, mixed into a base urethane material, and then molded into the necessary components. The result is a fun, unique design created by the black and white flakes of this added material.

The Surfrider Foundation logo is featured on the dial and case back, while the hashtag is printed on the band loop. These design features serve as reminders to live in a way that protects our oceans.

The watch delivers practical utility, as well, with a Tough Solar charging system that generates power from sun and fluorescent lamplight, eliminating the need to regularly replace the battery.

All of this, as well as paper packaging made with recycled paper, comes together in a special timepiece worthy of a G-SHOCK-Surfrider Foundation collaboration.

Source: CASIO COMPUTER CO. LTD

PR Newswire

Dangbei to Unveil Mars Pro 2: World’s First Google TV 4K Laser Projector with Licensed Netflix

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A leap forward in home entertainment, combining a super-bright 4K laser cinema with the convenience of Google TV and licensed Netflix access

TUMWATER, Wash., May 14, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Dangbei, an innovator in smart entertainment, today announces the launch of its flagship model, Dangbei Mars Pro 2, the world’s first Google TV 4K laser projector with a built-in, licensed Netflix app. It marks the first projector to combine laser-illuminated Ultra HD picture, Dolby and DTS:X surround sound, the vast content universe of Google TV, and advanced smart controls. This makes it a truly all-in-one entertainment hub, transforming spaces into a movie theater, a gaming arena, or even a sports bar.

Dangbei Mars Pro 2: World’s First Google TV 4K Laser Projector with Licensed Netflix
Dangbei Mars Pro 2: World’s First Google TV 4K Laser Projector with Licensed Netflix

The Brightest Projector from Dangbei

Boasting a stellar 2450 ISO lumens powered by a laser light source, Dangbei Mars Pro 2 is Dangbei’s brightest projector to date. This translates to consistently vibrant visuals, day or night, for years to come. The premium 4K UHD picture with HDR10+ support offers a theater-quality experience, and the ALPD® technology ensures speckle-free and color fringing-free visuals.

Netflix and More at Fingertips

Mars Pro 2 makes streaming a breeze. The pre-installed, licensed Netflix app delivers smooth, stutter-free playback, taking Netflix viewing on projectors to new heights. Google TV’s intuitive interface allows for managing watchlists, multiple profiles, and getting personalized recommendations from all preferred streaming services, including Netflix, YouTube, Prime Video, Hulu, Disney+, and more.

Big Picture, Big Sound

Despite its compact size compared to traditional projectors, Mars Pro 2 can project expansive images up to 200 inches—over 2.5 times larger than a 75-inch TV. The immersive adventure goes beyond visuals. Mars Pro 2 boasts powerful sound with dual 12W built-in speakers, a spacious 600ml sound chamber, Dolby Audio, and DTS:X support, creating a next-level cinematic soundscape.

Smarter Image Optimization

Mars Pro 2 debuts Dangbei’s next-gen intelligent image optimization technology, InstanPro AI Image Setup. It leverages a combination of dToF, CMOS, and AI algorithms to offer a range of functionalities. Users can enjoy faster autofocus, auto keystone, screen fit, obstacle avoidance, eye protection, and AI brightness control—all designed for a perfect viewing experience.

Unleash Endless Entertainment

Dangbei Mars Pro 2 is a one-stop shop for entertainment. A dedicated game mode with low latency, 4K 60Hz refresh rate, HDMI 2.1, and WiFi 6 ensures seamless gameplay. MEMC technology smooths out fast-action for sporting events and more. Plus, Mars Pro 2 comes with 3D capabilities including Blu-ray, all delivered in whisper-quiet operation under 24 dB for uninterrupted enjoyment.

Pricing and Availability

Dangbei Mars Pro 2 will be officially released on May 28th, available both on the official website and Amazon US for $1899. To mark the occasion, Dangbei will offer a special discount of $400, bringing the price down to $1499. Customers can even claim a free gimbal stand (valued at $139) with their purchase of Mars Pro 2 on the Official Website, by subscribing to the newsletter prior to launch. 

The new product will also be available on Amazon UK/EU and other marketplaces like MediaMarkt, Fnac, Alza, Datart, and Allegro.

About Dangbei

Dangbei is a premium smart entertainment provider specializing in projectors and other innovative products. Trusted by over 200 million users worldwide, Dangbei offers stunning visuals and immersive sound, transforming spaces into vibrant entertainment, work, and life hubs.

In China, Dangbei leads in software for large screens, providing a vast app and content library across entertainment, health, education, and productivity. Dangbei ranks Top 2 in terms of shipments in China and Top 1 in the laser projector category. Learn more at us.dangbei.com.

Business, News

OpenAI Unveils GPT-4o: A Sassier, More Robust Version of GPT-4

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The landscape of artificial intelligence (AI) has witnessed a significant leap forward with the recent launch of OpenAI’s GPT-4o. This next-generation large language model (LLM) transcends the capabilities of its predecessors, boasting significant advancements in text, audio, and vision processing.

Going Beyond Text

While previous iterations of GPT excelled at text generation and manipulation, GPT-4o pushes the boundaries further. This multimodal LLM incorporates audio and visual inputs into its repertoire, allowing for a more comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the world around it. Imagine seamlessly interacting with a language model that can not only understand your written instructions but can also interpret visual cues on your screen or respond in real time to your voice commands.

Say hello to GPT-4o

OpenAI claims that GPT-4o maintains its predecessor’s exceptional text processing capabilities, even demonstrating improvements in non-English languages. This refined performance in text generation, translation, and code writing paves the way for more efficient communication and collaboration across diverse linguistic backgrounds.

OpenAI showcased the versatility of GPT-4o during its launch demo. The model’s ability to respond to audio inputs with a human-like response time opens doors for innovative voice assistant applications. Furthermore, GPT-4o demonstrated the potential to generate short videos based on textual descriptions, hinting at its ability to participate in creative storytelling processes.

Taking It Into High Gear with More Integrations

The launch of GPT-4o intensifies the ongoing competition within the AI research community. With Google’s LaMDA remaining a prominent contender, the race to develop the most advanced and versatile LLM continues. This competitive landscape serves as a catalyst for rapid innovation, ultimately benefitting the field of AI as a whole.

Meeting AI with GPT-4o

Reports suggest that GPT-4o might possess the capability to analyze visual information displayed on a user’s screen. While the full extent of this feature remains unclear, it opens doors for a variety of potential applications. Imagine a language model that can not only understand written instructions but can also adapt its responses based on the visual context on your screen. This level of integration could revolutionize the way we interact with computers and leverage AI for tasks requiring a deeper understanding of the user’s intent.

Meeting AI with GPT-4o

The implications of GPT-4o extend far beyond the realm of technical specifications. This multimodal LLM has the potential to redefine the way we interact with technology. Imagine AI assistants that understand not just our words but also our nonverbal cues, or creative tools that can collaborate with humans on artistic endeavors. While the full impact of GPT-4o remains to be seen, its launch signifies a significant step forward on the path towards more natural and intuitive interactions between humans and machines.

PR Newswire

LG Display’s Research Results on OLEDoS for VR Selected as Distinguished Paper at SID Display Week 2024

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SEOUL, South Korea, May 13, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — LG Display, the world’s leading innovator of display technologies, announced today that its research paper on OLEDoS for virtual reality (VR) has been selected as a Distinguished Paper of the Year by the Society for Information Display (SID), the world’s most prestigious display organization, at SID Display Week 2024. The company has been recognized for its technical leadership in the next-generation of displays.

LG Display researchers conduct research on OLEDoS for VR
LG Display researchers conduct research on OLEDoS for VR

LG Display’s paper is focused on examining ultra-high brightness and ultra-high resolution OLEDoS for VR, having developed OLEDoS by introducing major technologies that have significantly improved its performance.

Out of more than 500 papers submitted by display researchers around the world, only the top 5% that publicize truly outstanding results are recognized for their excellence each year by SID.

As it is OLED deposited on a silicon wafer substrate, OLEDoS is attracting attention as a way to deliver AR and VR in high definition even on the micro scale. In particular, VR displays require higher screen brightness and resolution than general displays to increase the viewer’s sense of immersion when external light is blocked.

LG Display’s research team has been recognized for successfully achieving a brightness of 10,000 nits, a 40% enhancement over the existing standard, by combining its newly developed high-performance OLED elements with its own development of OLED light extraction maximization technology called Micro Lens Array (MLA).

If a high-performance OLEDoS display is used in VR devices, it is expected to provide a more vivid and lifelike virtual reality experience.

LG Display will present fifteen next-generation display research papers at Display Week 2024, including the results of its OLEDoS research. It will propose a technology that improves the three-dimensional effect of a glasses-free light field display and a performance measurement method for stretchable displays that can be stretched up, down, left, and right.

In addition, the company plans to present its production process optimization research results while also promoting its differentiated technological leadership. These results will feature a high-efficiency OLED light emitting element design and defect prediction system, both of which were developed using artificial intelligence.

“We will continue to create new customer value and strengthen our technological competitiveness through next-generation display research and development that implements ultra-high brightness and resolution,” said Soo-young Yoon, CTO and Executive Vice President at LG Display.

About LG Display

LG Display Co., Ltd. [NYSE: LPL, KRX: 034220] is the world’s leading innovator of display technologies, including thin-film transistor liquid crystal and OLED displays. The company manufactures display panels in a broad range of sizes and specifications primarily for use in TVs, notebook computers, desktop monitors, automobiles, and various other applications, including tablets and mobile devices. LG Display currently operates manufacturing facilities in Korea and China, and back-end assembly facilities in Korea, China, and Vietnam. The company has approximately 70,707 employees operating worldwide. For more news and information about LG Display, please visit www.lgdisplay.com.

Media Contact:

Joo Yeon Jennifer Ha, Manager, Communication Team
Email: hjy05@lgdisplay.com

PR Newswire

Breaking Boundaries: SUNLU Unveils Diverse 3D Printing Material Innovations at TCT Asia 2024

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ZHONGSHAN, China, May 11, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — From May 7th to May 9th, 2024, TCT ASIA 2024 was held at the National Exhibition and Convention Center in Shanghai. As a global summit for 3D printing technology, this exhibition brought together numerous industry elites and research experts to explore the forefront of digital manufacturing technology.

SUNLU BOOTH
SUNLU BOOTH

At this technological feast, SUNLU, a rapidly developing player in the 3D printing industry, showcased multiple innovative materials and electronic products, demonstrating its outstanding achievements in additive manufacturing. Positioned at 8E22, SUNLU attracted a large number of visitors with its unique booth design, and the display of various products sparked enthusiastic responses.

Jack Jiang, SUNLU’s General Manager, stated, “As experts in 3D printing, SUNLU has always adhered to our core concept of ‘Technology Simplifies Creation,’ focusing on users and continuously pursuing excellent product quality. Our latest innovations are based on in-depth insights into user and market needs, aiming to bring users a better experience.”

Let’s delve into SUNLU’s latest offerings:

Reusable Spools

Addressing a common frustration among 3D printing users–the handling of empty spools– SUNLU unveiled reusable spools following in-depth market research and technical analysis, providing a new solution for energy conservation and environmental protection.

Designed with sustainability in focus, these spools feature advanced materials and optimized structures for reuse, equipped with weight markings, large visual labels, and durability, effectively reducing spatial waste and enhancing material management efficiency. Additionally, perforations on the spools enhance drying for better filament quality.

High-Speed Filaments

With fast printing becoming a mainstream trend in 3D printers, the quality and efficiency of printing materials must also improve. SUNLU promptly responded to market demands for higher-performing filaments with its High-Speed Series Filaments: High-Speed PLA, High-Speed ABS, and High-Speed PETG. Capable of accommodating printing speeds up to 600mm/s without compromising precision, these filaments promise superior print quality while maintaining the advantages of general filaments, such as PLA’s compatibility, ABS’s toughness, and PETG’s resilience, significantly boosting both efficiency and user satisfaction.

Functional Filaments

With 3D printing transcending boundaries into diverse sectors like lifestyle, education, art, and culture, SUNLU debuted a suite of functional filaments tailored to these expanding needs. This includes flexible TPU, UV/rain/heat-resistant ASA, Easy PA for high-strength components, lightweight yet sturdy PLA Carbon Fiber, and Anti-String PLA for a smooth surface finish. These filaments broaden the application spectrum and fuel creativity across industries.

Present for now, promising for the future. A successful conclusion also heralds a brand new beginning. Bolstered by a decade of manufacturing and R&D experience, and a global leadership position in material sales reaching over 150 countries, SUNLU looks ahead with a commitment to fostering a brighter technological future. Rooted in innovation, we pledge to continue offering top-quality 3D printing materials, equipment, and solutions. Anticipation runs high for the next encounter where SUNLU will undoubtedly shine anew!

For more information, please visit: 
https://www.sunlu.com

Media Contact:
Branding@sunlu.com
Sales@sunlu.com

PR Newswire

Human-Centered Digital Technology Starts with Digital Talent Development: DigiBridge Digital Talent Development Side Event at the 2024 UN STI Forum

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NEW YORK, May 11, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — The ninth annual United Nations Science, Technology, and Innovation Forum (UN STI Forum), dedicated to advancing the Sustainable Development Goals, convened at the UN headquarters in New York on May 9-10, 2024. Under the theme “Science, Technology, and Innovation for Reinforcing the 2030 Agenda and Eradicating Poverty in Times of Multiple Crises: The Effective Delivery of Sustainable, Resilient, and Innovative Solutions,” the forum featured keynotes from luminaries such as Dennis Francis, President of the General Assembly; Paula Narvaez, President of ECOSOC; Li Junhua, United Nations Under-Secretary-General for Economic and Social Affairs; Tshilidzi Marwala, United Nations Under-Secretary-General and Rector of the United Nations University; Muhammadou M. O. Kah, Chairman of the UN CSTD and Vice Chair of the WDTA Education Council. These remarks focused on deploying innovative solutions to expedite the achievements laid out in the 2030 Agenda.

A key highlight of the forum was the DigiBridge side event, organized by the World Digital Technology Academy (WDTA). The event centered on crucial discussions about narrowing the global talent and skill gap and enabling developing countries to leverage digital technologies for sustainable growth. 

The event was officially opened by Peter Major, Vice Chairman of the UN CSTD and Founding Chairman of WDTA, detailed how the DigiBridge program detailed how the DigiBridge is a leading global initiative in digital talent development, designed to bridge the global digital skills gap for everyone. This comprehensive educational and training program melds advanced pedagogical techniques with the demands of industry and international benchmarks, offering a lifelong learning platform for college students, technology professionals, and sector leaders.

Muhammadou M. O. Kah, also opened the event by highlighting the indispensable role of digital technologies in global economic growth and as pivotal solutions to global challenges. He outlined the vision for UN CSTD and WDTA to jointly foster a platform that promotes creativity, groundbreaking ideas, and international collaboration, serving as a powerful catalyst for sustainable digital technology growth and societal advancement.

Yale Li, Co-Founder and Executive Chairman of WDTA, introduced the highly anticipated ‘DigiBridge Digital Talent Development Program. He emphasized the transformative role of innovative educational solutions in shaping a resilient digital economy, particularly through the lens of AI-driven training programs. These initiatives demonstrate WDTA’s leadership in educational innovation and its commitment to cultivating an inclusive global digital talent pool. Prof.  Li mentioned that the WDTA has launched the ” Certified Artificial Intelligence Security Professional” and ” Certified Chief AI Officer” programs, which are rapid actions to support comprehensive education in artificial intelligence.

Tshilidzi Marwala delivered a keynote speech on the topic of generative AI in education. He emphasized the vast potential of generative AI in the educational sector, particularly in personalized learning and the access to educational resources, while also highlighting the risks and challenges it presents, such as data biases and the potential decline in students’ critical thinking skills. He advocated for a comprehensive and ethical approach to exploring AI’s application in education, ensuring equitable access and mitigating potential negative impacts.

Contributions about AI and Education also came from industry leaders. Naria K, General Manager of Digital Inclusion at Microsoft Philanthropies, presented ‘Helping People Build Skills for a New Way of Working.’ She discussed the transformative impact of Generative AI on the workplace and the new opportunities it creates. Highlighting the necessity for AI fluency in all future jobs, Naria detailed Microsoft’s initiatives to upskill individuals, especially from underserved backgrounds, to navigate and thrive in the evolving AI economy.

Dr. Cari L. Miller, Co-founder and Board Chair at the AI Procurement Lab, presented ‘Urgent and Emerging AI Use Cases and the Demand for Cross-Cutting Education.’ She discussed the rapid adoption of AI use cases and their future trends, emphasizing the need to adapt educational practices to prepare a tech workforce capable of delivering immediate employer value. Dr. Miller highlighted the importance of context-specific AI applications and cross-cutting educational strategies that enhance ROI through applied technical skills and domain knowledge.

From the academic sector, Professor Ryan Ko, Cyber Security Chair at the University of Queensland, spoke on ‘AI for Interdisciplinary Cyber Security Education and Research.’ He outlined how UQ Cyber leverages AI in cyber security training, detailing the synergy between rapid AI advancements and educational strategies. His presentation highlighted UQ’s role in training Team Oceania for the International Cybersecurity Challenge, where AI significantly enhanced the team’s performance, securing them second place. This effort not only demonstrated effective AI application but also contributed to several UN Sustainable Development Goals, reflecting the global impact of their educational innovations.

Zhifeng Hao, President of Shantou University, outlined the evolution from early digital technologies to today’s AI-driven landscape, emphasizing the need to integrate disciplines like AI and Big Data into education. Professor. Hao highlighted Shantou University’s commitment to supporting the DigiBridge program, which aims to promote sustainable development and universal access to digital technology.

During the summary of the event, Executive Director and Assistant to the Chairman of the WDTA, Melan Xu, stated that DigiBridge is an open collaborative program. It invites governments, corporations, NGOs, and others to partner with the WDTA to leverage our collective strengths for synergistic development, with the common goal of bridging the digital divide and ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to contribute to and benefit from the digital economy.

The success of the DigiBridge side event at the 2024 UN STI Forum underscored the critical importance of international collaboration in tackling challenges of the digital era. It also reaffirmed the vital role of multilateral cooperation in promoting digital education equity and inclusive growth worldwide, ensuring that bridging the global digital gap for everyone.

Advertorial, Feature

[SPONSORED] Make Classrooms a JOI to Learn in with the JOI Smartboard

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This article is Sponsored by SNS Networks Sdn Bhd

JOI Smartboard 8

The modern classroom is no longer a space that is confined by its four walls. With access to the internet, online experiences and learning tools have become commonplace. However, in many learning environments and institutions, the pedagogical norms have yet to embrace these tools and experiences. This can be mainly attributed to a lack of access to the tools to bring them into the classroom. The JOI Smartboard is one tool that is available to bridge that gap and empower educators to engage students in learning more actively.

Built for Engaged, Collaborative Learning in All Spaces

The JOI Smartboard is a brand-new tool that is made to revolutionize learning spaces. It brings together the familiarity of a whiteboard and projector with the modern technology of a computer. In a space where learners are constantly being distracted by smartphones, tablets and computer screens, the JOI Smartboard allows educators to deliver lessons in a more engaging way. This will allow educators to not only prepare their lessons and sessions in a more interactive way but also deliver them while better engaging with the learners.

JOI Smartboard 10

As Benjamin Franklin once said, “Tell me and I forget, teach me and I may remember, involve me and I learn.”. Engaged learners are better able to understand and appreciate lessons that are delivered. They are in the thick of it when it comes to learning. Tools like the JOI Smartboard allow educators to look beyond the page and their own capabilities to be artistic or creative and leverage the largest resource we have – the internet. With the JOI Smartboard, they are able to incorporate multimedia elements for visual and auditory learners and also interactive activities for kinesthetic learners. The ability to cater to all learners will ensure better outcomes for the learners. After all, interactive teaching styles have been shown to deliver better outcomes[1].

The JOI Smartboard is built for interactive learning. It runs on a 10th Generation Intel Core processor. This gives you the flexibility to not only use a familiar Windows interface to educate but also build robust learning experiences. With features like Wireless screenshare, you’ve got a dynamic learning surface that educators can use to deliver lessons as well as empower learners to take a more active role in their learning. Presentations and even interactive activities should be a breeze with screen sharing. Remote learning is should also be a breeze with the element microphone array and easily accessible USB ports.

High-Performance Visuals & Features for Collaborative Learning No Matter the Mode

With the integration of digital resources and activities into learning. There needs to be a rich, engaging visual experience. The JOI Smartboard is able to deliver this with up to sizes ranging from 65-inches to 86-inches with 4K UHD resolution. The large size not only allows learners at the far back of the space to see things with clarity, it also allows them to be engaged in the lessons.

JOI Smartboard 7
JOI Smartboard 6
JOI Smartboard 5
JOI Smartboard 4
JOI Smartboard 3
JOI Smartboard 2
JOI Smartboard 1
JOI Smartboard 9

The JOI Smartboard takes engagement a step further with connectivity features. It will be able to connect to the internet through an ethernet connection. This will allow educators to be able to deliver their lessons in an engaging way no matter the mode of learning. The JOI Smartboard’s feature-rich writing software allows educators to bridge the familiarity of writing on a whiteboard with the advanced technology of a touch screen and stylus. Enhanced with high-precision IR Touch technology, it also allows for interactive activities with learners.

JOI Smartboard 11

On the smaller variants of the JOI Smartboard, educators will be able to engage over the internet with the built-in 13-megapixel camera and microphone. Using software like Google’s classroom platform or Microsoft’s Classroom tools will be as easy as using a whiteboard in the classroom. The ease of teaching online makes it easier for educators to prepare for any situation that may arise. It also makes it easier to create online repositories of classes and lessons for learners to access.

A Small Investment to Be Ahead of the Curve and Foster Learning

The JOI Smartboard isn’t just feature-packed, it’s breaking boundaries when it comes to affordability. While other brands would charge a premium for these features, the JOI Smartboard comes in as low as RM6,999. This makes the smartboard one of the most affordable on the market.

JOI Smartboard Mar Apr24

The JOI Smartboard isn’t a one-size-fits-all device either. The sizes start at 65 inches and scales go all the way to 85 inches allowing teachers and institutions to get one that fits their needs the best. SNS Network Sdn Bhd is also making it even more accessible with monthly payments that start as low as RM209* ensuring no classroom is left behind.

A Tool for Educators to Make a Lasting Impact on Learners and Foster the Love of Learning

All in all, the JOI Smartboard is a tool that not only makes an impact on how educators educate but also how learners learn. It makes engagement a non-issue both in-person and over the internet. It’s also future-proof with integrations with upcoming AI tools like Microsoft’s Copilot built-in thanks to its flexible OS and operating environments. Be ahead of the curve and head on down to the official JOI Smartboard website to find out more about the device.

[1] Anderson, J. (2014) “The Benefit of Interactive Learning” Available at: https://www.gse.harvard.edu/ideas/news/14/11/benefit-interactive-learning (Accessed: 20 April 2024)

Contributed

AI and Environmental Sustainability – A Symbiotic Relationship

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Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) promises to be more transformative than any other technology in recent memory, with the power it possesses to give rise to new industries and professions while propelling the global economy toward a new era of prosperity. Demand for data processing is expected to grow exponentially with AI as data is essential to how AI systems learn and make decisions. AI’s ability to turn mountains of data into insights requires compute power, making data centre performance critical to our ability to leverage this transformative technology.

solen feyissa XtH7BBRPtA unsplash
Photo by Solen Feyissa on Unsplash

As with any generational technology, there will be challenges – especially the environmental impact of AI due to the energy and data centre resources required to run larger computing models. While organisations seek to embrace the many benefits of AI, they are also keenly aware of making progress toward their sustainability goals. Data centre energy use and emissions would probe serious issues towards high carbon footprint but when approached mindfully, AI infrastructure development and adoption in data centres can provide a path to more sustainable operations.

As experts in data and IT infrastructure, Dell Technologies believes sustainability will be integral to the success of AI technology through an organisation’s commitment to help offset the environmental impact of AI and harness the potential of AI to support climate-related solutions.

Generated with Co Pilot Digital Sustainability
Generated with Microsoft Copilot

While AI requires significant compute power, it currently represents a small fraction of IT’s global energy consumption. To manage AI’s growing carbon footprint, data centre operators must embrace sustainable data centre investments and practices. Data centre energy use remained stable over the last decade (around 1% of global electricity demand according to the International Energy Agency), even with growing technology workloads and traffic. To offset the environmental impact of AI, greater control over data centre energy consumption is increasingly becoming a top priority, and there are tools available to do this:

  • Minimise AI’s carbon footprint through modern, energy-efficient servers and storage devices, and environmentally responsible cooling methods, while powering data centres with renewable energy. At Dell, we prioritise running larger data models in our data centres that are powered by 100% renewable energy.
  • Right-size AI workloads and data centre economics. While some organisations will benefit from larger general-purpose large language models (LLMs), many organisations only require domain- or enterprise-specific implementations. Right-sizing compute requirements and infrastructure can support greater data centre efficiency. And, flexible “pay as you go” spending models can also help organisations save on data centre costs while supporting sustainable IT infrastructure.
  • Responsibly retire inefficient hardware to optimise data centre performance and energy consumption, while reducing e-waste and keeping recycled materials in use longer.  

AI solutions to environmental challenges

As sustainable data centres can help to offset AI’s carbon footprint, this technology can also be used to track and analyse massive amounts of data to ultimately address some of our planet’s biggest challenges, such as climate change, pollution and deforestation. For example, Dell is helping Siemens build smarter buildings with AI. Siemens helps customers reduce their buildings’ carbon footprints by leveraging edge and AI technologies to address building performance issues, like optimising HVAC systems, predicting energy demand and identifying energy leaks in real time.

Image by <a rel=
Image by Pete Linforth from Pixabay

AI can be used to optimise energy grids, design more efficient transportation systems and develop new ways to capture and store carbon dioxide. The University of Cambridge and Dell collaborated to support advanced and sustainable research through AI. By providing powerful, energy-efficient supercomputing to scientists and organisations, the University of Cambridge drives breakthroughs in innovation that rely on AI. This solution not only enables AI to process enormous volumes of data more quickly, but it does so more efficiently, with less power consumed.

Within data centre operations, AI can be used to improve monitoring and workload placement to optimise efficiency and reduce energy costs. There is no “either/or” decisions, rather efficient data centre infrastructure is integral to AI’s evolution. For this to succeed, advocates and organisations must see sustainability as a vital part of AI computing infrastructure. According to IDC, the number one sustainability priority for IT planning and procurement among IT decisionmakers is reducing data centre energy consumption [i]. At the intersection of sustainability and business priorities, AI can support environmental stewardship at the same time it drives digital transformation. 

Leading by example

Drawing the narrative closer to home – Malaysia continues to be a preferred choice for data centres in ASEAN. As the data centre market continues to expand in Asia, Malaysia’s data centre market demands continue to be on the rise as the country is expected to receive 2.25 billion USD by 2028. Meanwhile, the nation is determined to achieve net zero emissions by 2050 – driven by a vision of a low-carbon future highlighted by various national policies such as the National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR), Hydrogen Economy and Technology Roadmap (HETR) and Energy Efficiency and Conservation Act 2023 (EECA).

Dell sustainability
Key Highlights from Dell’s Sustainability Efforts per the corporate website

Technology has an important role in addressing environmental challenges. Dell aims to move the industry forward both through modernising data centre technology and modelling the “both/and” benefits of sustainable data centres. We have ambitious goals and we also see the immense benefits AI can bring to protecting our planet. While working to offset the environmental impact of AI, we will also innovate to develop solutions that leverage the power of AI to address some of our biggest environmental challenges.

[i] IDC: Which Circularity Criteria Are Driving IT Planning and Procurement?, Doc , May 2023

Business

US Revokes Chip Sales Licenses for Huawei Escalating Tech Tensions

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The ongoing tech war between the United States and China has intensified with the recent revocation of export licenses for chip sales to Huawei. This move by the US Department of Commerce restricts American companies like Intel and Qualcomm from supplying certain chips to the Chinese telecommunications giant.

The US government cites national security concerns as the primary motivation behind this decision. Specifically, they allege that Huawei’s close ties to the Chinese government pose potential risks, as the technology could be used for espionage purposes. Huawei has vehemently denied these accusations.

hauwei banned

This move by the US government could significantly disrupt Huawei’s supply chain. The company heavily relies on American-made chips for its smartphones and other electronic devices. Limited access to these crucial components could hinder Huawei’s ability to manufacture new products and maintain its market competitiveness. Up until now, Huawei has had very restricted access to chips for its product lineups. Even with access, the components have left the Chinese company at a handicap without key technologies like 5G. However, given Huawei’s recent progress in creating its own 5G chips with the Kirin 9010 leaves the impact of the restrictions questionable at best.

The implications of this decision extend beyond Huawei. The uncertainty surrounding chip sales to China could create ripples throughout the global tech industry. Other Chinese tech companies might face similar restrictions, potentially impacting international collaborations and innovation in the semiconductor sector.

The future path of this conflict remains unclear. The possibility of further US restrictions on Chinese tech companies exists, while the potential for negotiations and a resolution cannot be ruled out. For now, the global tech industry grapples with the immediate consequences of this decision and the potential long-term ramifications.

Business, Lifestyle, News

Senheng App Supercharges Savings & Benefits with S-Coin, Becoming a One-Stop Shopping Destination

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Malaysians are increasingly turning to digital rewards programs for savings and convenience, as revealed by data from the Senheng App. This trend highlights a shift in consumer behaviour, with Malaysians seeking to maximize their purchasing power in a challenging economic climate.

Senheng App Goes Beyond Electronics

The Senheng App is evolving beyond simply bridging the gap between its physical stores and customers. It’s transforming into a powerful competitor to established e-commerce platforms like Lazada and Shopee. While electronics remain a core focus, the app now offers a wider product range, including groceries and movie tickets, catering to a broader range of everyday needs.

Senheng App 4

Data from the Senheng App paints a clear picture: App downloads have more than doubled between Q1 2023 and Q1 2024, and Senheng PlusOne Membership registrations have tripled in the same period. This growth signifies a strong consumer desire for online convenience and rewarding experiences. Furthermore, the continued app adoption and membership growth despite economic uncertainties showcase loyalty programs’ enduring appeal.

S-Coin: Fueling Your Savings

Looking closer at the data, it’s evident that S-Coin adoption goes beyond mere transactions. Malaysians are using S-Coin, a digital rewards currency exclusive to Senheng’s PlusOne members, as a way to enrich their lives – from groceries to gadgets, they’re leveraging this program to stretch their dollar and enjoy greater convenience.

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The 23% increase in S-Coin collection through the Senheng App from Q1 2023 to Q1 2024 demonstrates a clear preference for loyalty programs that help offset rising costs. The 60% increase in active S-Coin users during the same period further emphasizes the program’s growing value in daily life for Malaysian households.

How S-Coin Works

Earned through eligible purchases via the Senheng App, Senheng stores, and partner platforms, S-Coin can be redeemed for discounts on a wide variety of products and services within the Senheng ecosystem. In a world where financial prudence is essential, the rise of digital rewards programs like S-Coin offers a valuable tool for Malaysians. By embracing loyalty programs, consumers can take control of their finances and unlock a more rewarding lifestyle.

Empowering Malaysians Through Savings and Convenience

“At Senheng, we’re committed to empowering Malaysians to make the most of their hard-earned money,” said Lew Wai Hoong, General Manager of Senheng App. “The surge in S-Coin adoption reflects a broader shift towards digital rewards and convenience. The Senheng App is not just a shopping platform; it’s a tool that allows Malaysians to make every ringgit count, ultimately enhancing their lifestyles.”