Yearly Archives: 2024

Business, News

Malaysia’s Telco Landscape in Flux: Is Maxis Eyes U Mobile Buyout?

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Malaysia’s telecommunications landscape could be on the cusp of a major shakeup, with Maxis Bhd., one of the country’s leading mobile operators, reportedly considering a buyout of its rival, U Mobile Sdn Bhd. This potential merger, if successful, would mark the second significant consolidation within the industry following the recent Celcom-Digi merger announced in May 2024.

Maxis U Mobile

Strategic Move to Consolidate Two Rivals on the Same Page

News of the potential Maxis-U Mobile deal emerged in mid-July 2024. Sources close to the matter claim that Maxis has expressed interest in acquiring U Mobile, with talks currently in their early stages. This move comes at a time when Malaysia is actively accelerating its transition to 5G technology, and both companies are vying for a strategic advantage.

The potential Maxis-U Mobile merger mirrors the recent Celcom-Digi union, which seeks to create a dominant player in the 5G space. With the Malaysian government aiming to roll out nationwide 5G coverage by 2024, consolidation within the telecommunications sector appears to be a strategic move for companies to strengthen their infrastructure and investment capabilities. Notably, U Mobile has been at the forefront of 5G development, collaborating with EDOTCO, a state-owned tower company, to spearhead the deployment of the second 5G network in Malaysia.

EDOTCO U Mobile MoU

While Maxis seems keen on acquiring U Mobile, the latter has reportedly rejected the initial buyout offer. U Mobile, currently the third-largest mobile operator in Malaysia with over 9 million subscribers, is said to be valuing itself at more than RM10 billion (approximately USD 2.3 billion). Interestingly, U Mobile has been contemplating an initial public offering (IPO) since 2021, suggesting an alternative path towards growth and expansion.

MCMC Ready to Oversee Merger

The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has expressed its readiness to establish guidelines should Maxis and U Mobile decide to proceed with the merger. The regulator’s focus will likely be on ensuring healthy competition within the market and preventing the creation of a monopoly that could stifle innovation and ultimately harm consumers.

The potential benefits of a Maxis-U Mobile merger are multifaceted. It could lead to a more efficient allocation of resources, reduced network duplication, and potentially lower prices for consumers. However, concerns exist about the potential reduction in competition, which could lead to higher prices and a lack of choice for users. Additionally, job losses within both companies due to potential redundancies remain a key concern.

The potential Maxis-U Mobile merger is shrouded in uncertainty at this point. While Maxis has expressed interest, U Mobile appears hesitant. Both companies have their own strategic considerations, and the MCMC’s regulatory oversight further complicates the picture. However, one thing is clear: if successful, this merger would significantly redraw the Malaysian telecommunications landscape.

It remains to be seen whether the Maxis-U Mobile deal will materialize. However, this potential consolidation serves as a reminder of the ongoing transformation within Malaysia’s telecommunications sector. As the race for 5G dominance heats up, further consolidation and strategic realignments within the industry are not out of the question. Whether these developments benefit consumers or stifle competition depends on the regulatory framework and the companies’ commitment to providing high-quality services at affordable prices.

PR Newswire

Rokid Partners with vivo to Lead the New Trend of’Spatial Computing + Smartphone’

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HANGZHOU, China, July 18, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — On July 10th, the vivo experience store at Xixi Longhu Tianjie in Hangzhou was bustling with people. Consumers’ attention was captivated by a unique device—the exclusively customized vivo X100 Ultra featuring Rokid AR Glasses. Its distinctive spatial photography and seamless blending of virtual and real imagery offered users a taste of the groundbreaking spatial computing technology on their mobile phones. This marks the official arrival of vivo’s latest “imaging flagship” phone, the vivo X100 Ultra, which is now available for hands-on experience at select offline stores, where customers can also directly try out the ultimate combo of the vivo X100 Ultra and Rokid Max series glasses.


Guided by on-site staff, a mobile phone user activated the 3D imaging function on the X100 Ultra and casually captured the surroundings. Subsequently, by putting on the Rokid glasses and opening the Rokid Space App on the phone, a photo with a profound sense of 3D space emerged.

This 3D imaging feature, a collaboration between the X100 Ultra and Rokid Space Album capabilities, allows users to capture and store photos and videos in 3D format, presenting them in a spatially immersive manner.

Furthermore, leveraging the X100 Ultra’s advanced telephoto capabilities, users also experienced the “Telescope” function with Rokid AR glasses. By wearing the Rokid glasses and sliding the screen with their fingers, they could zoom in to gain a “far-sighted” view, revealing details from afar within the mall. Staff highlighted how this feature would excel at concerts, sports events, or birdwatching at zoos, allowing even those seated far away to appreciate every detail of the stage or scene, immersed in an unparalleled experience.

Combining impeccable photography with exquisite presentation, Rokid and vivo have dramatically elevated the user experience by harnessing the harmony of spatial computing and smartphones. This union seamlessly intertwines virtuality with reality, crafting an immersive time-travel-like escapade through the photographs captured.

It is reported that Rokid and vivo will soon introduce a spatial multi-app mode, enabling multiple mobile phone applications to be opened and run simultaneously in space, further unleashing the potential of spatial computing in mobile devices and broadening its practical applications.

Partnering with a leading domestic smartphone manufacturer, Rokid is venturing into the realm of imaging, continuously exploring usage scenarios, refining product experiences. By bringing spatial computing to the masses, Rokid make AR technology resonate with users in a more humanistic and heartwarming manner.

Looking ahead, the wave of spatial computing driven by AR technology is unstoppable. Rokid and vivo’s collaboration sets a precedent in the Android smartphone market for spatial imaging, establishing a “spatial computing + smartphone” model. With Rokid’s smart glasses being compact and user-friendly, they lower the barrier for creative expression, a crucial factor amidst the evolving landscape of consumer electronics where technological prowess, application scenarios, and user interaction experiences may hold the key to success.

As the X100 Ultra, empowered by Rokid’s AR technology, reaches more offline stores across cities like Shanghai and Hangzhou, Rokid and vivo’s collaborative efforts will reach a broader audience, facilitating user engagement and feedback. Both companies are poised to deepen their cooperation technologically and scenically. Embracing an open mindset, Rokid stands ready to usher in the dawn of the spatial computing era alongside its partners.

Camera, News

Canon Unveils the EOS R1: A Masterful Fusion of Speed and Intelligence

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Canon is redefining the boundaries of speed and performance with the introduction of the EOS R1, its first flagship mirrorless camera in the EOS R system. This powerhouse caters to professional photographers who demand exceptional results in fast-paced environments.

The EOS R1 centers around a 24-megapixel full-frame back-illuminated stacked CMOS sensor. This sensor, paired with the innovative DIGIC Accelerator and DIGIC X image processor working in tandem as the Accelerated Capture System, unlocks a new level of processing speed. This translates to significant performance improvements across various functionalities.

EOS R1

The EOS R1 boasts the next-generation Dual Pixel Intelligent AF system, powered by the Accelerated Capture System. This system delivers significantly faster and more accurate autofocus and subject tracking compared to previous EOS R models.

A revolutionary addition is the Action Priority AF mode. This intelligent feature leverages deep learning to analyze sports scenes in soccer, basketball, or volleyball. It detects crucial actions like shooting, passing, and heading, ensuring you capture those split-second moments that define the game.

In-Camera Upscaling Brings Quality Rivaling 96-Megapixel Sensors

The EOS R1 introduces In-Camera Upscaling, a groundbreaking feature that utilizes deep learning algorithms to quadruple the number of pixels in an image. This allows you to achieve exceptional quality extreme crops directly in-camera, generating images that rival those captured with a 96-megapixel sensor.

The EOS R1 boasts high-speed continuous shooting at up to 40 fps with the electronic shutter and 12 fps with the mechanical and electronic first-curtain shutter, ensuring you capture the peak of fast-paced action. The faster sensor readout speed minimizes rolling shutter distortion, even when using the electronic shutter. This translates to seamless action footage and crisp stills.

Canon EOS R1 (5)
Canon EOS R1 (1)
Canon EOS R1 (2)
Canon EOS R1 (3)
Canon EOS R1 (4)

For those moments where anticipation is key, the EOS R1 offers pre-continuous shooting for stills and pre-recording for videos. These functions capture frames or footage before you fully press the shutter or record button, ensuring you never miss a critical moment.

The EOS R1 prioritizes an intuitive and responsive shooting experience. The improved Eye Control AF allows you to control the focus frame simply by looking at your desired subject. The high-resolution, high-magnification electronic viewfinder provides a clear and uninterrupted view of the scene, even in bright conditions.

Designed for Professional Workflows

The EOS R1 integrates seamlessly into professional workflows. It supports the latest Wi-Fi 6/6E wireless protocol and high-speed 2.5GBase-T wired LAN for rapid transmission of large image and video files.

Additional features that benefit professional users include:

  • More precise deep learning-based metering
  • Blur detection for faster image review
  • Powerful industry-standard video options with 6K 60p RAW recording and Cinema EOS features
  • Enhanced usability with Speedlites

Housed in a lightweight yet robust magnesium alloy exterior, the EOS R1 is built to withstand the demands of professional use. It boasts dust- and water-resistant weather-sealing, allowing you to shoot confidently in challenging environments.

The EOS R1 marks a significant leap forward in Canon’s mirrorless camera lineup. Its exceptional speed, intelligent features, and professional-grade functionalities make it a compelling choice for photographers who push the boundaries of visual storytelling.

Pricing & Availability

Canon has yet to announce official pricing and availability for the EOS R1. However, based on industry reports, the camera body is expected to be available in August 2024 for an estimated retail price of $5,999 (approx. RM27,989.98).

Camera, News

Canon Unveils the EOS R5 Mark II Packed with New Features for Content Creation

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Canon has unveiled the EOS R5 Mark II, a compelling successor to the highly-regarded EOS R5. This new mirrorless camera boasts a series of impressive upgrades designed to empower photographers and videographers of all levels to push their creative boundaries.

The EOS R5 Mark II centres around its impressive new 45-megapixel back-illuminated stacked CMOS sensor. This sensor, paired with the all-new DIGIC Accelerator and DIGIC X image processor working in tandem as the Accelerated Capture System, promises significant improvements in processing speed. This translates to faster performance and opens doors for exciting new functionalities.

EOS R5 Mark II

The EOS R5 Mark II inherits the Dual Pixel Intelligent AF system from the EOS R1. This system leverages deep learning and the power of the Accelerated Capture System to deliver noticeably improved subject tracking and detection in both stills and video. Whether you’re shooting fast-paced action or navigating busy environments, the autofocus is designed to keep your target locked even in challenging scenarios.

For photographers who prefer a more instinctive approach, the EOS R5 Mark II introduces a groundbreaking feature: Eye Control AF. This innovative technology allows you to simply look at your desired subject to shift the AF frame, offering a whole new level of focus control that feels natural and seamless.

Expanding Video Creation

The EOS R5 Mark II isn’t just about capturing stunning photos. Videographers will be excited about the camera’s capability to produce high-quality cinematic footage. With internal 8K DCI 60p RAW video recording support, you can capture breathtaking detail and clarity. The camera also offers a variety of industry-standard recording modes and options to suit diverse production needs.

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Source: Canon
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Source: Canon
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Source: Canon
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Source: Canon
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Source: Canon
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Source: Canon

The EOS R5 Mark II joins the EOS R1 as the first EOS system camera to offer 10-bit Canon Log 2. This professional colour profile provides a wider dynamic range (over 16 stops) and superior preservation of shadow detail. This translates to greater creative flexibility in post-production, allowing you to achieve a variety of artistic looks.

For professional filmmakers who work with Cinema EOS cameras, the EOS R5 Mark II integrates seamlessly into existing workflows. It utilizes the same XF-AVC S/XF-HEVC S file system, allowing for efficient collaboration and streamlined editing alongside Cinema EOS cameras. Additionally, the camera incorporates valuable Cinema EOS tools like waveform monitors, false colours, and zebra displays, ensuring consistent results during multi-camera shoots.

The EOS R5 Mark II inherits the pre-recording function from Cinema EOS cameras, a boon for capturing fleeting moments. This feature records up to 5 seconds before you hit the record button, ensuring you never miss a critical shot. You can even control pre-recording remotely via the Camera Connect mobile app for added convenience.

Additional Video Features

The EOS R5 Mark II offers a range of features designed to enhance the videography experience:

  • Reduced rolling shutter distortion: The new sensor design minimizes rolling shutter distortion by an impressive 40% compared to the EOS R5. This means smoother action footage without unwanted wobbly artefacts.
  • External recording options: Achieve exceptional quality with external recording support for Apple ProRes RAW up to 8K 30p via the HDMI Type-A output.
  • Enhanced audio capabilities: The camera supports 24-bit 4-channel linear PCM audio input, ideal for multi-microphone setups and capturing ambient noise.
  • Improved heat dissipation: The camera features a robust heat dissipation structure, allowing for reliable recording even at high resolutions.
  • Optional cooling fan for extended recording: Extend your recording times with the optional K510 cooling fan, enabling up to 120 minutes of 8K 30p video capture.
  • High-Speed Connectivity: The EOS R5 Mark II supports the latest wireless/wired communication protocols (Wi-Fi 6/6E and 2.5G Base-T wired LAN), facilitating the rapid transfer of large video and photo files to PCs or servers – perfect for time-sensitive news reporting and editorial work.

The EOS R5 Mark II streamlines your workflow and elevates image quality with in-camera deep learning-powered features. Neural Network Noise Reduction effectively reduces noise in high-ISO RAW images, preserving detail and resolution. In-camera Upscaling allows you to quadruple the number of pixels in an image, boosting resolution to a staggering 179 megapixels with minimal impact on image quality.

Availability and Pricing

Canon has yet to announce official pricing for the EOS R5 Mark II. However, the camera body is expected to be available in August 2024 for an estimated retail price of $4,299 (approx. RM20,069.40).

PR Newswire

FlexClip Unveils Advanced AI Features and Improved Editing Tools for Enhanced Creativity

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HONG KONG, July 17, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — PearlMountain Limited announces the latest update to its flagship video creation platform, FlexClip, which adds two new, powerful AI features: AI Noise Reducer and AI Vocal Remover. These tools are designed to enhance audio quality, making it easier for users to achieve professional-grade audio effects. Additionally, the new version has improved existing AI tools, further simplifying the editing process, elevating user experience, and boosting FlexClip’s competitiveness as a video production tool.

Meet FlexClip 6.0 for Next-Level Video Editing
Meet FlexClip 6.0 for Next-Level Video Editing

“I am thrilled to introduce the newest version of FlexClip, which includes highly anticipated AI capabilities,” says PearlMountain CEO and founder, Lin Xiao. “We believe these enhancements will streamline audio processing, allowing for superior video quality and greater creative flexibility. This update underscores our dedication to continually enhancing the user experience.”

FlexClip’s new AI Noise Reducer effectively eliminates background noise such as wind, rain, traffic, and other environmental sounds with a single click. This significantly enhances audio clarity and quality, benefiting video bloggers, streamers, online educators, filmmakers, and music producers. Users can achieve professional-grade audio without specialized skills, thereby streamlining the editing process and enhancing creative efficiency.

Moreover, FlexClip uses advanced AI algorithms to intelligently identify and separate vocals and background music from any video or audio track, providing users with clean background music and isolated vocal segments. FlexClip AI Vocal Remover boosts creative flexibility and efficiency, benefiting projects such as karaoke accompaniment creation, education and training, and audio mixing, while improving overall standards and quality.

The latest FlexClip release brings new features and upgrades current AI tools based on user feedback. The Text-to-Video function will now automatically generate voiceovers with improved scene matching for more complete video results and the AI Image Generator has also been refined with advanced models for better output. FlexClip continues to optimize editing and performance for a superior user experience in creative projects.

For more information about FlexClip, please visit https://www.flexclip.com/ or on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.

About FlexClip

FlexClip is an ai-powered online video maker developed by PearlMountain Limited, providing one-stop video services that help novice and professionals create tutorials, video trailers, explainer videos, presentations, and social media videos with ease.

To date, FlexClip is used and loved by millions of people around the globe.

Business, News

Malaysian Businesses Urged to Leverage High-Speed Connectivity & Modern Technologies to be More Competitive

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Malaysia is on the cusp of a digital revolution, and businesses are being urged to seize the opportunity. The recent unveiling of Malaysia’s first 10Gbps broadband service by ViewQuest signals a significant leap forward in infrastructure, and Minister of Digital, YB Gobind Singh Deo, is calling on Malaysian businesses to leverage this high-speed connectivity and modern technologies to unlock a new era of productivity and innovation.

Copilot Generated Malaysia Digital
Image generated with Microsoft Copilot

“This ultra-speed connectivity demonstrates the advanced capabilities and benefits of 10Gbps Internet,” said Gobind Singh Deo at the ViewQuest event. “It is also a testament to Malaysia’s fast and reliable Internet infrastructure and its game-changing impact on Malaysia’s digital future.”

This ultra-speed internet offers a wealth of potential benefits for businesses across all sectors. Imagine streamlining e-commerce operations with lightning-fast data transfer, facilitating real-time data analysis for informed decision-making, or seamlessly integrating cloud-based applications – these are just a few possibilities.

“Ultra-speed Internet will increase productivity, efficiency, and innovation across all industries, such as e-commerce, agriculture, education, healthcare, finance and even government services. Services and production will be 10x faster – if not more,” highlighted the Minister.

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Minister of Digital, YB Gobind Singh Deo, addressing the media at the launch of ViewQwest’s 10Gbps Fibre Internet.

By embracing high-speed connectivity and modern technologies, Malaysian businesses can not only improve operational efficiency but also foster a culture of innovation. This can lead to the development of new products and services, improved customer experiences, and ultimately, increased competitiveness in the global marketplace.

The benefits extend beyond internal operations. High-speed internet can bridge the digital divide, allowing businesses to connect with customers and partners across the country and beyond. This fosters a more inclusive digital landscape and opens doors to new markets.

However, Minister Deo acknowledges the importance of cybersecurity alongside these advancements. “Laws and policies to safeguard all parties are extremely important as digital technology continues to evolve,” he said. The recently passed Cyber Security Act and amendments to the Personal Data Protection Act demonstrate the government’s commitment to creating a secure digital environment that fosters trust with customers and investors.

As Malaysia embraces this digital revolution, it positions itself as a hub for innovation and a magnet for global investment. Businesses that leverage high-speed connectivity and modern technologies will be at the forefront of this exciting new chapter. The call to action is clear: Malaysian businesses must seize this opportunity to unlock their full potential and thrive in the digital age.

Business, Lifestyle, News

10Gbps Fibre Internet Is Now Offered by ViewQwest in Malaysia

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ViewQwest is upping the ante when it comes to fibre connectivity in Malaysia. Hot off the heels of the company’s launch of its 10Gbps network availability in Singapore, it is now bringing the same high-speed connectivity to Malaysia. The Singaporean ISP is beating local ISPs to the punch and opening the offering to the general public.

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The 10Gbps speed offering was launched at one of the first buildings fitted for the network in the heart of Kuala Lumpur – The Stride. The building is one of many sites that are 10Gbps ready. ViewQwest’s new 10Gbps offering will be running on ViewQwest’s own fibre backbone and will provide the speed on a best-effort basis.

That said, the package may not be offered to everyone as it will depend on fibre availability and the available backhaul fibre infrastructure. However, ViewQwest assures that the service will be available in the coming months as infrastructure is rolled out. The package will be offered at a starting price of RM1,800 a month. This pricing doesn’t include any one-time costs that may be incurred during the service installation. Subscription availability will be subject to a site visit. ViewQwest will also be providing WiFi 7 capable routers to fully leverage the speeds that the connection offers.

From left to right = Jurist Francisco Gamban, COO of ViewQwest, YB Gobind Singh Deo, Minister of Digital, Vignesa Moorthy, CEO, ViewQwest, and Christopher Ng, Country Head MY of ViewQwest.
(From left to right) Jurist Francisco Gamban, COO of ViewQwest, YB Gobind Singh Deo, Minister of Digital, Vignesa Moorthy, CEO, ViewQwest, and Christopher Ng, Country Head MY of ViewQwest.

ViewQwest showcased the connectivity at The Stride Strata Suites at a launch event graced by Minister of Digital, Yang Berhormat Tuan Gobind Singh Deo. To showcase the speeds, the company downloaded a 10GB file in about 45 seconds. This process would have taken about 35 minutes at the minimum with regular 1Gbps or 2Gbps connections that are top-of-the-line in Malaysia now. This would have taken at least an hour on regular 300Mbps and 500Mbps connections that are commonplace in Malaysia. The company also showcased downloading Civilization VI on Steam which took all of 30 seconds for the 24GB install.

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The company also did a speed test which showed off the high speeds of the 10Gbps connection. During the test, the network was able to hit about 9.5Gbps peak speeds but averaged about 8.7Gbps. The

PR Newswire

Fractal Launches ‘Leadership Strategies for AI and Generative AI Specialization’ on Coursera

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NEW YORK, July 17, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Fractal (www.fractal.ai), a global provider of artificial intelligence and advanced analytics solutions to Fortune 500® companies, has launched the ‘Leadership Strategies for AI and Generative AI Specialization’ on Coursera, one of the world’s leading online learning platforms. This comprehensive program is designed specifically for executives, senior leadership, entrepreneurs, management students and aspiring leaders in the field of AI, equipping them with the essential skills and knowledge to harness the power of generative AI across various business domains.

The Specialization offers a strategic framework for integrating generative AI into business operations while emphasizing data privacy, ethical considerations, and potential risks. Learners will explore diverse applications of generative AI and develop the confidence and competence to lead AI initiatives effectively.

“In the rapidly evolving AI landscape, it is crucial for leaders to not only understand but also effectively leverage generative AI technologies. Our partnership with Coursera aims to provide a robust educational foundation, empowering leaders to drive meaningful AI transformations in their organizations,” said Pranay Agrawal, Co-founder & CEO, Fractal.

“Leaders today face a ‘GenAI conundrum’: moving too quickly risks data, ethical, and regulatory issues, while being too cautious may undermine their competitive edge. High-quality education and training are key to navigating this balance,” said Raghav Gupta, Managing Director, India and APAC, Coursera. “This Specialization from Fractal aims to equip organizations to harness the transformative power of GenAI swiftly and safely, driving innovation and efficiency while maintaining ethical standards.“

This Specialization comprises four comprehensive courses, meticulously designed and presented by Fractal’s senior leaders including Pranay Agrawal, Co-founder & CEO; Rasesh Shah, Chief Practice Officer – EDTech; Bhaskar Roy, Client Partner APAC & Bangalore Centre Head; Ajoy Singh, Chief AI Officer; Sray Agarwal, Principle Consultant; Akbar Mohammed, Head, Fractal Dimension. These courses are: 

i)  Generative AI for Business – A Leaders’ Handbook 

  • Core concepts of generative models including Variational Auto Encoder (VAEs) Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs)
  • Strategic framework for integrating GenAI into business operations with data privacy, ethical implications, and potential risks at the center

ii)  Successful AI Strategies: A CEO’s Perspective 

  • Key components for driving desired outcomes from AI
  • Strategies for error reduction and accuracy improvement in AI
  • Insights into optimizing organizational effectiveness in AI adoption

iii)  Responsible AI – Principles and Ethical Considerations 

  • Responsible AI principles and their significance in technology
  • Techniques to identify, address, and mitigate bias in AI algorithms and data
  • Insights on Ethical AI governance, privacy considerations, and security measures

iv)  Structured Approach to Problem Solving 

  • Lifecycle of data science projects and the role of structured thinking
  • Importance of human centered design in solving business problems

Upon completing the course, participants will receive a certificate and gain invaluable insights from industry leaders. Additionally, they will be well-positioned for diverse and promising career opportunities, not only at Fractal but across the AI and tech industry.

Fractal’s previous courses have seen remarkable success, with nearly 50,000 enrollments within just seven months. The ‘GenAI for Everyone’ course, part of Coursera’s Gen AI Academy, alone attracted over 26,000 participants, while other courses have been adopted by top universities and leading corporations. With this partnership, Fractal continues its commitment to democratizing industry knowledge and empowering AI professionals worldwide.

To learn more and apply, visit: https://www.coursera.org/specializations/leadership-strategies-for-ai-and-generative-ai

About Fractal

Fractal is one of the most prominent providers of Artificial Intelligence to Fortune 500® companies. Fractal’s vision is to power every human decision in the enterprise, and bring AI, engineering, and design to help the world’s most admired companies.

Fractal’s businesses include Asper.ai (AI for revenue growth management) & Flyfish (generative AI for Sales). Fractal incubated Qure.ai, a leading player in healthcare AI for detecting Tuberculosis, Lung cancer, heart failure and stroke.

Fractal currently has 4500+ employees across 17 global locations, including the United States, UK, Ukraine, India, Singapore, Middle East and Australia. Fractal has been recognized as ‘Great Workplace’ and ‘India’s Best Workplaces for Women’ in the top 100 (large) category by The Great Place to Work® Institute; featured as a leader in Data Engineering services 2024 & Data Science Services 2024 by Information Services Group, Leader in AI and Analytics Services Specialists Peak Matrix Assessment 2021 by Everest Group, Leader in Customer Analytics Service Providers Wave™ 2023 by Forrester Research, Inc

About Coursera: 

Coursera was launched in 2012 by two Stanford Computer Science professors, Andrew Ng and Daphne Koller, with a mission to provide universal access to world-class learning. It is now one of the largest online learning platforms in the world, with more than 148 million registered learners as of March 31, 2024. Coursera partners with over 300 leading university and industry partners to offer a broad catalog of content and credentials, including courses, Specializations, Professional Certificates, Guided Projects, and bachelor’s and master’s degrees. Institutions around the world use Coursera to upskill and reskill their employees, citizens, and students in fields such as data science, technology, and business. Coursera became a Delaware public benefit corporation and a B Corp in February 2021.

PR Newswire

Digital Garden Announces Premier Two-Day Tokyo Digital Infrastructure Summit in March 2025

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TOKYO, July 17, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Today, Digital Garden has unveiled plans for a premier two-day summit that will bring together global and Japanese leaders to collaborate towards cementing Japan as a global digital infrastructure leader. Digital Garden Tokyo convenes thought leaders and decision-makers from digital infrastructure owners and operators, government, investors and lenders, service and equipment providers, real estate, and end-users in a unique format meant to foster networking and enable further transactions and collaboration in the space to match the pace of growth in the industry.

Digital Garden Tokyo launches on March 17th and concludes on March 18th, 2025 at the Toranomon Hills Forum, one of the premier venues in Tokyo. The event offers multiple networking events as well as topical sessions on the most important issues in the digital infrastructure space, including Japan’s rise as a global AI and cloud hub, the investment and lending environment, advancements in fiber and power infrastructure, challenges and opportunities in construction and development, and government policies and subsidies aimed at advancing digital infrastructure. Multiple global and Japanese leaders have already confirmed attendance and initial speaker lineups will be announced in Fall 2024.

Daniel Cox, Chairman of Digital Garden and longtime Japan investment veteran, said, “Through my experience standing up digital infrastructure assets in Japan, it has become clear that both Japanese and global leaders are looking for increased opportunities to drive dealmaking and share mutual learnings and best practices. This conference comes from an overwhelming ask from all stakeholders for an event like this in Japan.”

Mike Owen, Vice Chairman of Digital Garden and Executive Director of ULI Japan, added, “Over my 20+ years running ULI Japan, my personal mission has been to successfully provide a venue for Japanese and global industry leaders to proactively network, study and learn; and consequently, for the organization to serve as a foundation for successful business collaborations. I am convinced ULI Japan did this for the real estate community, and Digital Garden will do it for the digital infrastructure community.”

Information on the conference will be updated regularly and for more information and registration details, interested parties are encouraged to visit www.digitalgarden.co.jp.

About Digital Garden Digital Garden is an innovative platform promoting collaboration among all stakeholders in the digital infrastructure space with a focus on transactions and achieving digital infrastructure growth goals in the Japanese and pan-Asian context. Digital Garden Tokyo is Digital Garden’s inaugural event. Daniel Cox, Chairman of Digital Garden, is a long-term Japan investment veteran, having previously served as Chief Representative Japan for Grosvenor, CEO at Niseko Village, and Head of Business Turnaround at Citigroup Principal Investments. Mike Owen, Vice Chairman, is the Executive Director of ULI (Urban Land Institute) Japan, having led the organization for over 20 years, and Founder of Transpacific Enterprises, the leading provider of information services for the real estate and investment communities in Japan.

Business, News

Raiz Departs Malaysia: Curtains Close on Micro-Investing Platform

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Raiz, the micro-investing platform designed to make investing accessible, has announced its departure from the Malaysian market after four years of operation. This news comes as a surprise to some, as Raiz had positioned itself as a champion of financial inclusion, offering Malaysians a user-friendly platform to start their investment journey.

A Review of Raiz’s Malaysian Chapter

Launched in 2020 by a joint venture between Jewel Digital (a subsidiary of Permodalan Nasional Berhad or PNB) and Raiz Invest Australia, Raiz quickly gained traction among Malaysians seeking a convenient way to invest. Their app-based platform allowed users to start investing with as little as RM1, removing the traditional high barriers to entry associated with investing.

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Source: Raiz

Despite its user-friendly approach, Raiz faced challenges in the competitive Malaysian financial landscape. Established players with robust investment products and extensive branch networks may have posed difficulties for the relatively new platform. Additionally, the relatively young Malaysian micro-investing market itself might not have reached the critical mass necessary for Raiz’s long-term sustainability.

Raiz is committed to ensuring a smooth transition for its Malaysian user base. A dedicated shutdown plan is in place, with RM3 million allocated to facilitate a structured and timely wind-down process. Existing users will be notified of the closure and provided with a timeframe to withdraw their invested funds.

Raiz is attributing its Malaysian exit to a strategic decision to focus on strengthening and expanding its core business in Australia. With a more established micro-investing market and a larger user base, Raiz believes it can achieve greater growth and profitability down under.

What This Means for Malaysian Raiz Users

Raiz’s departure doesn’t necessarily signify the end of micro-investing opportunities in Malaysia. Several local players are vying for a slice of this growing market, offering similar app-based investment platforms with low minimum investment requirements. As Malaysians become more financially savvy, the demand for accessible investment options is likely to remain strong.

For Raiz users in Malaysia, the news might be inconvenient, but not necessarily detrimental. Investors have ample time to withdraw their funds and explore alternative platforms that suit their needs. This could be an opportunity to compare features, fees, and investment options offered by various micro-investing players in the market.