Monthly Archives: May 2024

Business

Alibaba Cloud Expands Global Footprint with New Availability Zones

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Alibaba Cloud, the tech giant behind Alibaba Group, has unveiled a multi-pronged strategy to solidify its position as a global leader in artificial intelligence (AI). This ambitious plan involves expanding its physical footprint, forging strategic partnerships, and nurturing future AI talent.

The centrepiece of this initiative is the construction of new cloud regions and data centres in key international markets: Mexico, Philippines, Thailand, South Korea and Malaysia. This expansion reflects the surging demand for AI solutions across various industries. By establishing a physical presence closer to these markets, Alibaba Cloud aims to deliver its services with greater efficiency and reliability.

Selina Yuan President of International Business at Alibaba Cloud Intelligence announced Alibaba Cloud will Launch New Availability Zones and Global Investment to Fuel AI Innovation

International developers and enterprises will soon have access to Alibaba Cloud’s premier AI development platform, Model Studio. This platform streamlines the process of building and deploying AI models, even for those without extensive AI expertise. Through Model Studio, developers can leverage Alibaba Cloud’s powerful large language model, Qwen, to create custom AI applications. Additional tools and services are slated for release later this year, further empowering developers to tackle complex AI tasks cost-effectively.

Alibaba Cloud recognizes the importance of collaboration in the AI landscape. The company has deepened its partnership with SAP to offer a one-stop solution for SMEs in Asia. This integrated cloud-based offering combines the robust business management capabilities of SAP Business One with Alibaba Cloud’s secure and scalable cloud infrastructure. This empowers SMEs to embrace digital transformation without hefty upfront investments.

Looking to cater to multinational companies in China, Alibaba Cloud is developing a dedicated training program for Salesforce on Alibaba Cloud. This program equips participants with the necessary skills to navigate and utilize the Salesforce CRM platform within the specific context of the Chinese market. The program aims to train over 10,000 individuals by the end of 2025, fostering a skilled workforce comfortable with Salesforce within the Alibaba Cloud ecosystem.

Several prominent organizations are already benefiting from Alibaba Cloud’s AI expertise. Luxury giant LVMH Group has partnered with Alibaba Cloud to leverage AI-powered innovations in retail and online experiences. Integrating Alibaba Cloud’s generative AI capabilities, LVMH is pushing the boundaries of luxury customer experiences in China.

FathomX, a digital health AI company, has utilized Alibaba Cloud’s infrastructure to optimize its AI-driven breast cancer detection system. This partnership has resulted in a significant reduction in infrastructure costs, allowing FathomX to expand its reach and deliver advanced healthcare solutions globally.

The International Canoe Federation (ICF) is another organization collaborating with Alibaba Cloud to explore the potential of AI in promoting environmental sustainability. By leveraging Alibaba Cloud’s AI-powered ESG solutions, the ICF aims to minimize the environmental impact of its events and promote sustainable practices within the sporting world.

Alibaba Cloud’s commitment to global AI leadership is evident in its multifaceted approach. By expanding its infrastructure, fostering strategic partnerships, and investing in talent development, the company is well-positioned to empower businesses and organizations worldwide to harness the transformative power of AI.

Computers, News

Google Unleashes a New Stable of Chromebooks In Partnership with Acer, ASUS and HP

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Together with the announcement of the updates to the Chromebook Plus standard, Google has unveiled a new generation designed for a wider range of users. These Chromebooks from Acer, Asus, and HP come equipped with hardware and software tailored for various tasks, from entertainment and productivity to cloud gaming. Security, seamless Google app integration, and long battery life of up to 10 hours remain core strengths.

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The exciting addition comes in the form of Chromebook Plus devices, featuring built-in AI functionalities like interacting with the AI assistant Gemini with a simple click. The starting price for Chromebook Plus devices is $350 (approx. RM 1,530).

The Acer Chromebook Plus Spin 714 (Starting at USD$699)

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Ideal for power users, the Spin 714 packs the latest Intel Core Ultra processor in a portable convertible design. The durable aluminium chassis features a touchscreen and a versatile 360° hinge, allowing for seamless transitions between laptop, tablet, and tent configurations. A 1440p QHD webcam with AI-powered enhancements ensures superior video conferencing, while dual microphones paired with upward-facing speakers and DTS Audio deliver high-quality sound.

The HP Chromebook Plus x360 (Starting at $429)

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Designed with both everyday tasks and sustainability in mind, the HP Chromebook Plus x360 offers a sleek and eco-friendly design. This 14-inch convertible Chromebook features a micro-edge full HD touchscreen display, rounded edges for a slimmer feel, and a long-lasting battery (up to 10 hours and 15 minutes) with HP Fast Charge technology. The 360° hinge allows for seamless transitions between modes. Additionally, it boasts eco-friendly credentials with EPEAT Gold certification and recycled materials.

More Options for Different Needs

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The ASUS Chromebook Plus CX34 (starting at $499) prioritizes performance with a 13th Gen Intel Core i5 processor. This sleek 14-inch clamshell design offers Wi-Fi 6E for fast connections and optional touchscreen functionality.

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For users seeking a compact and versatile companion with ample storage, the Acer Chromebook Plus 514 (starting at $349) features a 14-inch touchscreen, Intel Core i3 processor, 8GB RAM, and a generous 512GB of storage.

Gamers aren’t being left behind by this generation either! Google has acknowledged the growing popularity of cloud gaming platforms and introduced the Acer Chromebook Plus 516 GE (starting at $649). This Chromebook is specifically optimized for cloud gaming, ensuring a smooth and immersive experience.

News

There’s Finally a Chromebook for Gamers! Meet the Acer Chromebook Plus 516 GE

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Google has announced the Acer Chromebook Plus 516 GE, a Chromebook designed specifically for unleashing your inner gamer on cloud platforms. This marks a significant shift for Chromebooks, traditionally known for lightweight tasks and web browsing.

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The Acer Chromebook Plus 516 GE boasts specifications optimized for smooth cloud gaming experiences. Here’s a detailed look at what we know:

The 516 GE boasts a large 16-inch display with a sharp WQXGA resolution, ensuring crisp visuals during gameplay. The display’s 120Hz high refresh rate further enhances the gaming experience by delivering smooth and responsive visuals, especially during fast-paced action sequences. Under the hood, a powerful 13th Gen Intel Core processor tackles demanding games and applications with ease.

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Immerse yourself in the game with the Chromebook Plus 516 GE’s high-quality DTS audio system. Two upward-firing and two downward-firing speakers create a captivating soundscape, drawing you into the action. The gaming keyboard features a 4-zone RGB backlight, adding a touch of personalization and visual flair to your gaming setup. Anti-ghosting technology ensures your keystrokes register accurately, even during intense gaming sessions.

The Full HD 1080p webcam and integrated AI-powered video streaming tools allow you to stay connected and share your gaming moments with friends across any app. Fast and secure Wi-Fi 6E ensures a reliable and lag-free connection for seamless cloud gaming, whether you’re at home or on the go.

Acer Chromebook 516 GE - Chromebook Gaming Unleashed | Acer

The 516 GE offers ample storage options, with configurations reaching up to a whopping 2 TB. Additionally, up to 16 GB of fast memory keeps things running smoothly during gameplay and multitasking. Enjoy extended gaming sessions with a long-lasting battery life of up to 10 hours on a single charge.

Enhanced Gaming Experience with Chromebook’s Game Dashboard

Beyond just playing the games you love, the Chromebook Plus 516 GE leverages ChromeOS’s built-in Game Dashboard to elevate your entire cloud gaming experience. Game Dashboard acts as a one-stop shop for customizing your controls and sharing your gameplay triumphs.

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  • Game Controls: This feature lets you transform touch-centric Android titles into keyboard-controlled experiences. Map keyboard keys to touch or controller actions, allowing you to play games that were previously limited to touch controls.
  • Game Capture: Don’t just play, capture and share your gaming moments! Record your gameplay, take screenshots, and upload them directly to YouTube or share them with friends, all without leaving the action.

Pricing and Availability

Specific details on pricing and availability for the Acer Chromebook Plus 516 GE are yet to be revealed. However, based on leaked specifications, we can expect it to be priced competitively within the cloud gaming Chromebook market. Early estimates suggest a starting price of around USD $649 (approx. RM 2,833), with potential variations in price depending on storage and RAM configurations

Stay tuned for further details on the Acer Chromebook Plus 516 GE and Google’s plans for cloud gaming on Chromebooks. With these specs in mind, we can expect the 516 GE to be a powerful and versatile cloud gaming Chromebook, potentially shaking up the accessibility landscape for cloud gamers.

Computers

Chromebook Plus Gets an AI Infusion with Gemini

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Google recently unveiled the Chromebook Plus, a new laptop class promising a more powerful and intelligent user experience with the help of artificial intelligence (AI). Let’s delve into the new features coming to Chromebook Plus and how it leverages AI for enhanced productivity.

Chromebook Plus

First off, the Chromebook Plus boasts improved performance compared to its predecessors. Building on its initial announcement, it seems like the new wave of Chromebook Plus laptops will be more powerful than before. Benchmarks suggest a noticeable upgrade in processing power, making it suitable for everyday tasks and even light multitasking. This translates to smoother performance when browsing the web, running multiple applications, or streaming content. The updated Chromebook Plus also features a sleek and modern design, promoting a clean aesthetic for users who value both functionality and style.

Gemini Makes its Chromebook Debut

The true highlight of the new Chromebook Plus lies in its integration of various AI-powered features developed by Google. Here’s a closer look at some of the key functionalities:

  • Help me write: This feature utilizes AI to assist with writing tasks. Simply right-click within a text field and choose “Help me write” to receive suggestions for grammar, and sentence structure, and even generate creative text formats like bullet points or email greetings.
  • Gemini + AI Premium: The Chromebook Plus comes pre-installed with the Gemini app, Google’s AI-powered chat interface. A subscription to AI Premium is included for the first year, unlocking advanced features like summarizing complex documents or generating different creative text formats based on user prompts.
  • Generative wallpapers and video call backgrounds: AI lets you personalize your Chromebook Plus with unique wallpapers and video call backgrounds. Right-click on your desktop or within video conferencing apps and choose “Create with AI” to generate custom backgrounds based on your preferences.
Chromebook Plus, now with Gemini

While the AI features generate excitement, it’s important to understand the underlying technology. Help me write and similar features likely rely on natural language processing (NLP), a branch of AI that allows computers to understand and process human language. Similarly, generative wallpapers and backgrounds might utilize generative AI techniques that can create new content based on existing data sets.

It’s worth noting that the effectiveness of these AI features will depend on factors like internet connectivity and the ongoing development of Google’s AI models.

News

Apple’s WWDC 2024 Kicks off on June 10 with Keynote Livestream

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Apple’s annual Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) returns starting June 10th, 2024. The event offers developers a chance to gain insights into upcoming software updates and access tools for building apps across Apple’s various operating systems.

The conference will kick off with the highly anticipated keynote address, providing a first look at the latest updates coming to iOS, iPadOS, macOS, watchOS, tvOS, and potentially visionOS. Developers can expect details on new features, functionalities, and tools specifically designed to enhance app development for Apple’s ecosystem. Following the keynote, the Platforms State of the Union dives deeper into these advancements, offering a more technical perspective. Both presentations will be streamed live and available on-demand later.

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A Week of Insights and Expert Engagement

WWDC goes beyond the keynote presentations. Over the week, developers can participate in over 100 online sessions. These sessions delve into specific frameworks, best practices for app creation, and other development-related topics. This provides an opportunity to expand their knowledge and skillset through expert guidance and industry insights.

For Apple Developer Program and Enterprise Program members, WWDC offers valuable opportunities for direct interaction with Apple experts. Online labs and in-depth consultations allow developers to seek guidance on implementing the latest technologies, following best practices, and improving their apps. Additionally, live forums staffed by Apple engineers and designers provide technical assistance.

All WWDC sessions will be recorded and made available on the Apple Developer app, website, and YouTube channel. This allows developers to revisit specific topics at their convenience and explore areas of particular interest. Additionally, curated guides will be available to walk developers through the conference’s biggest announcements and resources.

A Celebration of Innovation: Swift Student Challenge and Design Awards

Apple recognizes the importance of fostering future generations of developers. The Swift Student Challenge provides a platform for young talent to showcase their skills. This year’s winners will have the opportunity to visit Apple Park for a unique experience during WWDC week.

The Apple Design Awards celebrate excellence in app and game design, recognizing developers who bring exceptional craft, creativity, and technical expertise to their work. The finalists are now listed on the Apple Developer website and app, with winners announced soon.

Staying Connected with the Developer App

The Apple Developer app serves as a central hub for everything WWDC. Available on iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple TV, and Apple Vision Pro, the app features the latest news, video sessions, announcements, and activities. Developers can browse topics, register for consultations, watch sessions collaboratively with SharePlay, copy code directly from videos, and more. All WWDC content, registration details, and resource materials are also accessible via the developer.apple.com website.

WWDC 24 provides developers of all experience levels with valuable opportunities to learn, connect, and stay up-to-date on the latest advancements within Apple’s software ecosystem.

News

CIMB OCTO Replaces CIMB Clicks Starting 11 June 2024

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CIMB Bank is consolidating its mobile banking offerings by phasing out the CIMB Clicks app in favour of the more feature-rich CIMB OCTO app. This move aims to provide a more unified and comprehensive mobile banking experience for its customers.

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Effective June 11th, 2024, the CIMB Clicks app will no longer be available for download on app stores. Existing users can continue to access their accounts through the app until that date. However, to ensure uninterrupted mobile banking services, CIMB strongly recommends transitioning to the CIMB OCTO app.

The CIMB OCTO app offers a wider range of functionalities compared to CIMB Clicks. Users can manage their finances on the go with convenient money transfer options and bill payment capabilities. The app also allows for investment monitoring and management directly from your smartphone. Additionally, features like card management, QR Pay for contactless payments, and lifestyle features like exclusive deals and branch and ATM locators provide a more holistic mobile banking experience.

Meet our new ‘CIMB OCTO App’

CIMB is committed to a smooth transition for its customers. A dedicated FAQ section on their website addresses any questions users might have about the switch to CIMB OCTO. Existing CIMB Clicks users will also receive in-app notifications and emails guiding them through the migration process.

The discontinuation of CIMB Clicks signifies CIMB’s commitment to providing a modern and feature-rich mobile banking experience. By transitioning to the CIMB OCTO app, users will benefit from a wider range of functionalities and a more streamlined way to manage their finances anytime, anywhere.

Android, Mobile, News

Realme GT 6T Announced in India with Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 and 120Hz Refresh Rate

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Realme has unveiled the GT 6T, a new mid-range smartphone boasting flagship-level features. This phone is designed for users who prioritize performance, display quality, and long battery life, all at a competitive price point.

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The GT 6T is equipped with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 processor, a powerful chipset known for its ability to handle demanding tasks and games smoothly. This is paired with up to 12GB of LPDDR5X RAM, ensuring smooth multitasking and app performance. Storage options range from 128GB to a generous 512GB, providing ample space for apps, photos, and videos.

The GT 6T features a large 6.78-inch 120Hz LTPO AMOLED display with a 1264 x 2780 pixel resolution. This combination promises vibrant colours, sharp visuals, and a smooth viewing experience, whether you’re watching videos, browsing the web, or gaming. The display boasts a peak brightness of 1600 nits, making it easily viewable even in bright outdoor conditions. Additionally, the display utilizes an 8-fold increase in brightness to intelligently analyze on-screen content, ensuring details are preserved in both bright and dark areas.

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The rear camera system on the Realme GT 6T consists of a triple-sensor setup. The primary sensor is a 50-megapixel wide-angle lens with OIS (Optical Image Stabilization) for capturing clear and detailed photos and videos. An 8-megapixel ultrawide lens allows you to capture expansive landscapes, while a 1-megapixel macro lens lets you get up close for detailed close-up shots. A 13-megapixel camera on the front handles selfies and video calls.

A highlight of the GT 6T is its massive 5,500mAh battery. This promises all-day usage on a single charge, with support for 120W SUPERVOOC fast charging to quickly refuel the device when needed. According to Realme, the 120W charger can take the phone from 0 to 50% in just 7 minutes.

Realme GT 6T (4)
Realme GT 6T (1)

The GT 6T runs on Android 14 with Realme UI 5.0 on top. This latest software iteration offers a refined user interface, improved privacy controls, and access to the latest Google features. Realme promises four major Android updates and five years of security updates, ensuring your phone stays protected and up-to-date for years to come.

The GT 6T incorporates an Iceberg Cooling System to manage heat and ensure sustained performance during demanding tasks like gaming. This system utilizes a combination of a vapour chamber, multiple graphite layers, and a stainless steel vapour cooling plate to dissipate heat effectively.

Pricing & Availability

The Realme GT 6T is currently available for pre-order in India. The starting price is INR 30,999 (approximately MYR 1,770 or USD 416) for the 8GB RAM + 128GB storage variant. The 12GB RAM + 256GB storage variant is priced at INR 34,999 (approximately MYR 2,020 or USD 473) and the top-of-the-line 12GB RAM + 512GB storage variant is priced at INR 38,999 (approximately MYR 2,270 or USD 530). The phone comes in two colour options: Razor Green and Fluid Silver.

It is expected to launch in other markets soon, but specific details on Malaysian launch dates and pricing are not yet available.

Social Media

YouTube’s War Against Ad Blockers Continues with the Platform Blocking Content Altogether

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The relationship between YouTube and ad blockers has always been a bit… strained. Creators rely on ad revenue to keep making the videos you love, while viewers often find ads disruptive and intrusive. Lately, however, things have taken a turn for the inconvenient, with reports suggesting YouTube might be taking a more aggressive stance against ad blockers.

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Photo by Szabó Viktor

Recent user experiences paint a frustrating picture. Reports indicate that some viewers with ad blockers are encountering issues such as videos automatically skipping to the end upon playback, or being stuck in endless buffering loops. Others describe sound issues, where the video plays with no audio until the volume slider is adjusted, only to be muted again shortly thereafter. While these issues might seem like glitches, the timing coincides with growing reports of YouTube’s new tactic.

There’s no official confirmation from YouTube, but the evidence suggests a deliberate strategy. Disabling videos or making them unplayable for ad blocker users would certainly incentivize them to turn off their blockers and view the ads that generate revenue for creators.

The Creator Conundrum

Many content creators rely on ad revenue to fund their work. Without that income, the quality and quantity of content we enjoy could be impacted. While ad blockers offer a solution for viewers seeking an uninterrupted experience, they can harm the creators who rely on ad revenue to keep making the content we love.

Finding a middle ground is ideal. Perhaps a less disruptive or intrusive ad format could be explored. For viewers who still prefer an ad-free experience, YouTube Premium offers a subscription option. Ultimately, the goal should be to create a sustainable ecosystem that benefits both creators and viewers.

What Can You Do?

If you’re experiencing playback issues with ad blockers, you can try temporarily disabling them to see if it resolves the problem. Keep in mind, that doing so will allow ads to play. Alternatively, consider supporting your favourite creators directly through features like YouTube channel memberships or Super Chat donations.

This situation is still developing, and it’s unclear what YouTube’s long-term strategy might be. One thing is certain: the war between ad blockers and monetization continues, and viewers are caught in the middle. Here’s hoping a solution emerges that allows us to enjoy great content without sacrificing a seamless viewing experience or the livelihood of content creators.

Lifestyle, News

Samsung Malaysia Announces Pre-registration for the new BESPOKE Jet Bot Combo Steam

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Samsung has unveiled the BESPOKE Jet Bot Combo Steam for those seeking a more efficient cleaning routine. This robot vacuum cleaner goes beyond basic suction, offering a comprehensive cleaning solution for your floors.

The yet-to-be-announced Jet Bot Combo boasts powerful suction to tackle dust and debris. However, what truly sets it apart is its high-temperature self-cleaning system. After mopping your floors, the system utilizes a combination of steam and water (ranging from 50 to 60°C) to thoroughly remove dirt from the mops itself. Additionally, the steam sanitizes the mops at a temperature of 100°C, ensuring a more hygienic clean for your home.

Bespoke Jet Bot Combo

Beyond its cleaning prowess, Samsung’s Jet Bot Combo Steam boasts a sleek and modern design that complements any décor. This robot vacuum seamlessly integrates into your existing furniture, ensuring a stylish addition to your home.

Ready to experience the future of clean floors? Register your interest online between May 28th and June 10th, 2024 to receive a voucher code for a discounted pre-order. Using your voucher code during the pre-order period between June 11th and June 24th, 2024, you’ll receive a discount of RM200 on the Jet Bot Combo Steam.

Business, Entertainment, Lifestyle

U Mobile Celebrates Kaamatan with Free 5G Bus and Exciting Activities

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U Mobile is kindling the spirit of Kaamatan to Sabah with Cara U Sabah: Kaamatan, a festive event happening from May 27th to 31st, 2024. Located right across from the Kadazan-Dusun Cultural Association (KDCA) where official Kaamatan celebrations unfold, Cara U Sabah: Kaamatan promises a fun-filled experience for all festivalgoers.

U Mobile Kaamatan 2024

U Mobile ups the ante this Kaamatan by launching Sabah’s first-ever 5G Bus! This double-decker provides free shuttle services between Imago Mall and KDCA, operating from 10 am to 7 pm daily. But it’s not just a ride – it’s an experience. Powered by U Mobile’s robust 5G network, passengers can enjoy lightning-fast internet access throughout the journey.

The 5G Bus isn’t just about connectivity. Passengers can also enjoy VR gaming, sing their hearts out at karaoke, be entertained by live busker performances, and strike a pose at the neon-lit Wall. Snap a photo with the wall, upload it to Instagram or TikTok, and you can win exciting prizes like 5G phones and earbuds! Feel free to stay onboard for multiple trips and experience everything the 5G Bus has to offer.

U Mobile Kaamatan 2024 KV 2

The 5G Bus drops you off at Cara U Sabah: Kaamatan, where even more excitement awaits. U Mobile is giving away 2,000 prizes throughout the event, including 5G phones, earbuds, Grab vouchers, and classic festival treats like popcorn and cotton candy. Meet your favourite ERA Sabah personalities, beauty queens, and content creators, and indulge in delicious offerings from GrabFood’s dedicated 5-star booth.

This event follows the recent opening of U Mobile’s first store in East Malaysia, located at Imago Shopping Mall, Kota Kinabalu. It’s another chapter in U Mobile’s ongoing commitment to expanding its brand presence and network in the region.

Ready to join the festivities? Visit the official Facebook event page for Cara U Sabah: Kaamatan and the first-ever 5G Bus!