Yearly Archives: 2024

PR Newswire

Orion Health awarded Panda Health Partner status for its Orchestral Health Intelligence Platform

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NEW YORK, May 19, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Orion Health, a global leader in digital health solutions, announced today that it has been awarded partner status by Panda Health for its Orchestral Health Intelligence Platform, one of three pillars of the Unified Healthcare Platform.

Panda Health connects hospitals and digital health companies, ensuring easier solution identification, selection, and procurement. Orion Health has joined a carefully selected group of digital health companies within the Panda Health ecosystem, who have passed cybersecurity, compliance, and technical evaluations and have been vetted for viability and value.

Orchestral is a health-centric data platform built on scalable and modular technologies that can be used to acquire and analyze data for individual, cohort, and population health management. It supports organizations as they progress from achieving consistent patient data to actionable predictive insights.

Orchestral provides an open, cloud-enabled, enterprise-wide extensible health data supermodel that can absorb any data attributes or standards, and store and output them in any format while balancing meeting standardized, national requirements and the flexibility to meet local variations. Health Systems can significantly improve data governance and time to deliver insights with built in machine learning, algorithm management, and a self-service analytics infrastructure that helps offload work for existing IT teams.

“Orchestral is the culmination of 30 years of Orion Health working with healthcare data and handling over 150 million patient records globally. Being a Panda Health Partner continues that journey by making a truly intelligent health data platform for the future available to more US Health Systems than ever before,” says James Henderson, SVP of North America, Orion Health.

About Orion Health 

Orion Health is a global healthcare technology company focused on reimagining healthcare for all. We are leading the change in digital health with health and care organizations to improve the well-being of every individual with our world-leading Unified Healthcare Platform. Made up of a Virtuoso digital front door, Amadeus digital care record, and Orchestral health intelligence platform – each underpinned by extensive health and social data sets, machine learning, and 30 years of innovation focused purely on improving global well-being. www.orionhealth.com

About Panda Health

Panda Health transforms how health systems connect with, explore, and adopt leading digital health technologies that improve the lives of patients and providers. Panda’s deep market intelligence and personalized guidance de-risk the digital health procurement process. Panda was founded in 2020 through a partnership between CentraCare, Gundersen Health System, ThedaCare and the development and investment firm Fitzroy Health.

Computers, News

Intel Introduces Thunderbolt Share Technology

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For users juggling multiple PCs, the dream of seamless file sharing, screen control, and peripheral access might seem far-fetched. However, Intel‘s latest announcement, Thunderbolt Share, aims to bridge this gap. Let’s delve into this technology and explore its potential benefits and limitations.

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Source: Intel

Thunderbolt Share builds upon the robust foundation of Intel’s Thunderbolt technology. Renowned for its high bandwidth and versatility, Thunderbolt allows for blazing-fast data transfer, high-resolution display connectivity, and device charging through a single cable. Thunderbolt Share leverages this existing infrastructure to establish a direct connection between two Thunderbolt-equipped PCs.

Imagine being able to control your work PC from your laptop at home. With Thunderbolt Share, this vision becomes a reality. Users can access and manage files on both PCs, synchronize folders, and even drag and drop content seamlessly. Additionally, the technology allows for shared screen control, enabling users to work on one PC while viewing the display on another.

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Source: Intel

While the potential of Thunderbolt Share is enticing, it’s important to acknowledge current limitations. This technology is primarily compatible with PCs equipped with Thunderbolt 4 or 5 ports, potentially excluding older devices. Additionally, not all manufacturers may offer Thunderbolt Share functionality on their PCs, even if they have Thunderbolt ports as it looks to be an add-on feature OEMs will need to pay for. Users should check for specific compatibility details with their PC models.

Interestingly, while initially announced as a Windows-focused solution, Macworld reports that Apple has integrated similar functionality into macOS Sonoma. This integration allows M-series Macs with Thunderbolt ports to connect directly and utilize features like file sharing and screen control between devices, mirroring some of the core functionalities of Thunderbolt Share. Whether this integration represents a shift in strategy for Intel’s technology or a coincidence remains to be seen.

News

Sony Music Issues Stern Warning Against Use of Its Artists’ Content for Training AI

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Sony Music Entertainment raising its voice over a critical issue: the unauthorized use of music to train artificial intelligence (AI) systems. The company has reportedly sent warnings to over 700 tech companies, expressing concerns that their music is being used in AI development without proper licensing agreements.

Training AI models, particularly Generative AI models like Large Language Models (LLMs), often involves feeding them massive amounts of data. Music can be a valuable source of data for AI systems learning about audio processing, language generation, or even music composition itself. However, Sony Music argues that using copyrighted music in this way requires explicit permission from rights holders.

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Sony Music’s stance highlights a grey area in the ongoing conversation surrounding AI development and copyright. The company emphasizes the need for fair compensation for artists whose music contributes to the creation of powerful AI tools. Additionally, Sony Music seeks transparency, urging tech companies to disclose how they are using music data in their AI training processes. While Sony Music is leading the charge, this concern extends beyond any single company. Other music labels and artist representatives are likely to voice similar concerns as the use of AI continues to grow across various industries.

Moving forward, a collaborative approach is crucial. Open communication between the music industry and tech companies can lead to the development of fair licensing practices for using music data in AI training. Additionally, exploring opt-out or opt-in mechanisms for artists who may not want their music included in AI development could be a potential solution.

The potential impact of AI on the creative process remains a topic of debate. While AI-powered tools could offer exciting possibilities for music composition and artist collaboration, concerns linger about the potential for homogenization or the displacement of human creativity. Ultimately, the future of AI and music hinges on navigating these complexities. Finding a balance between technological advancements and artistic integrity will be crucial in determining how AI shapes the music industry in the years to come.

News, Social Media

TikTok Tests Long-Form Videos: A Challenge to YouTube’s Dominance?

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The short-form video king, TikTok, is making waves with a bold experiment. The platform is currently testing the ability for users to upload videos up to 60 minutes long, a significant shift from its traditional bite-sized content format. This move has sparked speculation about TikTok’s potential ambitions to compete directly with YouTube, the established leader in long-form video streaming.

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Photo by Solen Feyissa on Unsplash

TikTok’s core identity has been built on its emphasis on short, engaging videos. The app’s initial focus was on 15-second clips, gradually expanding to 60 seconds and then 10 minutes in recent years. This latest test with 60-minute uploads marks a dramatic departure from the platform’s core format.

While some see this as a direct challenge to YouTube, the implications remain unclear. TikTok’s existing user base might not necessarily embrace hour-long content, and established YouTubers might not readily migrate to a new platform. However, the possibility of attracting new creators who prefer TikTok’s interface or community dynamics cannot be ignored.

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Screencap of Post by Matt Navarra on Threads.net

The introduction of longer videos opens doors for a wider range of content formats on TikTok. Imagine educational tutorials, in-depth interviews, or even live-streamed events finding a home on the platform. This could potentially attract viewers seeking a different type of long-form content experience compared to what YouTube offers.

Whether TikTok’s foray into longer videos becomes a permanent feature or a fleeting experiment remains to be seen. One thing is certain: the landscape of video content is evolving. Users now have access to a diverse range of platforms, each catering to specific preferences for video length, format, and community engagement. This competition between platforms ultimately benefits users by driving innovation and offering a wider variety of content to choose from.

Health

Android Health Gets a Boost: New Features & Improved User Control with Health Connect

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Google I/O concluded recently unveiling a wave of exciting updates designed to revolutionize how users manage their health and wellness through their Android devices. With a focus on user control, data privacy, and seamless integration, Google is aiming to empower individuals to take charge of their health journeys.

A key highlight is the significant enhancements coming to Google’s Health Connect platform. Serving as a central repository for health data from wearables, fitness trackers, and medical apps, Health Connect is poised to become a cornerstone of the Android Health ecosystem. This year’s announcements include improved accessibility with offline storage capabilities, allowing users to store vital health data even without an internet connection. Additionally, Google emphasizes a commitment to user control, with features enabling users to easily manage which data is shared with specific apps and revoke access as needed.

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Screencap from Google I/O 2024 presentation on Health Connect

The updates extend beyond user-facing features. Google unveiled new tools and resources for developers, allowing them to integrate with Health Connect more seamlessly. This not only simplifies the development process for health-focused apps but also unlocks the potential for a more robust and interconnected health ecosystem. Developers can leverage Health Connect’s standardized data schema to streamline data collection and analysis, ultimately leading to a more comprehensive picture of a user’s health.

Throughout the conference, a strong emphasis was placed on ensuring users have complete control over their health data. Features like granular permission controls and data deletion capabilities empower users to decide what information is shared with third-party apps and health services. This commitment to user privacy aims to build trust and encourage wider adoption of the Android Health platform.

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Screencap from Google I/O 2024 presentation on Health Connect

Looking beyond the immediate updates, Google hinted at future possibilities for Android Health. The company is exploring features that leverage advanced analytics to provide users with personalized health insights based on their collected data. Imagine receiving actionable recommendations on sleep patterns, stress management, or even preventative healthcare measures – all delivered via your Android device.

The announcements at I/O 2024 paint a promising picture for the future of Android Health. With a focus on user control, data privacy, and developer integration, Google is building a platform that empowers individuals to take a more active role in managing their health and wellness. As these updates roll out throughout the year, Android users can expect a more personalized and insightful health experience on their mobile devices. This focus on user-centric innovation positions Android Health to become a valuable tool for both individuals and healthcare providers in the years to come.

Mobile, News

Yoodo to Discontinue Operations on August 29, 2024

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Malaysian mobile users who value customization and control over their data plans will soon bid farewell to a familiar brand. Yoodo, the popular digital telco known for its unique approach to mobile services, has announced it will cease operations on August 29th, 2024.

Yoodo bye byt

Yoodo’s departure marks a significant change in the Malaysian telecommunications landscape. Launched in 2018, the brand carved a niche for itself by offering users complete control over building their mobile plans. Users could choose their desired data allocation, voice minutes, and SMS bundles, tailoring their plans to their specific needs. This level of customization resonated with a tech-savvy demographic seeking to avoid the often-restrictive nature of traditional mobile contracts.

The reasons behind Yoodo’s discontinuation stem from the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission’s (MCMC) requirements following the merger of Celcom and Digi. As a subsidiary of Celcom, Yoodo was required to be divested within 18 months of the merger’s completion to address concerns about reduced competition in the market.

Existing Yoodo customers can breathe a sigh of relief. Yoodo assures users that their current data, voice, and SMS services will continue uninterrupted on the CelcomDigi network until further notice. Furthermore, customers will have the option to port their numbers to another mobile operator of their choice. Yoodo will provide further details and support during the transition period leading up to August 29th.

The discontinuation of Yoodo raises questions about the future of customizable mobile plans in Malaysia. While CelcomDigi has not announced specific plans regarding Yoodo’s user base or the potential for similar customizable options within their existing offerings, it’s a situation worth monitoring.

Gaming, iOS, Mobile

Popular PSP Emulator, PPSSPP, Comes to the Apple App Store

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iPhone and iPad users, you can now get your PSP fix! The highly-regarded PlayStation Portable (PSP) emulator, PPSSPP, has finally arrived on the official Apple App Store. This allows iOS users to experience a vast library of PSP titles on their devices.

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Developed by Henrik Rydgård, PPSSPP has established itself as a popular and reliable PSP emulator across various platforms. Now, iOS users can join the party and relive cherished titles like God of War: Chains of Olympus, Gran Turismo, and Metal Gear Solid: Portable Ops. With PPSSPP readily available on the App Store, gamers can access a treasure trove of PSP classics, offering a nostalgic trip down memory lane.

PPSSPP boasts more than just bringing back fond memories. The emulator comes equipped with a range of features designed to optimize the mobile gaming experience. Users can customize controls to suit their preferences, leverage save states to pick up gameplay seamlessly, and even upscale graphics for a sharper visual experience.

It’s important to remember that PPSSPP itself doesn’t include any game files. Users are responsible for acquiring PSP game files (ISOs or CSOs) legally. Developers recommend dumping physical PSP games or downloading them from reputable sources that comply with copyright laws.

While the arrival of PPSSPP on the App Store is exciting news, it’s worth noting that this initial release has some limitations. Features like Magic Keyboard support for enhanced iPad gaming and Retro Achievements integration are temporarily unavailable. However, the developer assures users that these functionalities will be added in future updates.

Android, Mobile

Samsung One UI 6.1 Update Rolls Out to Galaxy A Series without Galaxy AI

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The wait is over for some Samsung Galaxy A34 and A54 users, as the company has begun rolling out the latest One UI 6.1 update. This software update brings a variety of improvements and new features to the mid-range smartphone, but there’s a key caveat for users expecting significant AI enhancements.

While specific details haven’t been officially revealed by Samsung, reports suggest the One UI 6.1 update introduces various improvements for the Galaxy A series. This could potentially include a refreshed user interface, enhanced camera capabilities, and optimizations for smoother overall performance. Additionally, users might benefit from bug fixes and security patches, addressing any lingering software issues.

Galaxy AI not here One UI 6.1 Galaxy A

However, there’s a crucial detail to consider. Unlike Samsung’s flagship Galaxy S-series and foldable phones, the One UI 6.1 update for the Galaxy A34 and A54 reportedly doesn’t come with Galaxy AI. These advanced functionalities, showcased in other Samsung devices, leverage on-device processing for tasks like object recognition and Bixby scene detection.

That said, Samsung’s decision to withhold AI features from the Galaxy A34 aligns with its current strategy. The company tends to reserve its most advanced AI functionalities for its premium smartphone lines. This approach allows them to differentiate their flagship devices while ensuring a smooth and optimized user experience on more affordable models like the A34 and A54.

Lifestyle

All Nothing Earbuds To Get ChatGPT Integration

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Nothing, the company behind the transparent-designed Ear (1) earbuds, has announced integration with OpenAI’s powerful GPT-4 language model. This integration, available for select Nothing earbuds and smartphones, promises a more intuitive and voice-centric user experience.

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Source: Nothing

While Nothing earbuds have primarily focused on audio playback, the inclusion of GPT-4 expands their functionality significantly. Users can now leverage the capabilities of this advanced LLM through voice commands, potentially transforming the earbuds into a versatile AI assistant. This announcement comes on the heels of Open AI’s announcement of GPT-4 omni or GPT-4o.

GPT-4o’s roll out brings an interesting dimension to Nothing’s integration of ChatGPT into its peripherals. In the announcement, Open AI highlighted a number of extended features that come even with the free version of ChatGPT. It will be interesting to see how this impacts user experiences.

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Source: Nothing

However, there is a caveat. While the news sounds exciting, current reports suggest this initial integration has limitations. Firstly, it’s only compatible with specific Nothing earbuds, including the recently launched Ear (stick) and Ear (a), alongside the company’s upcoming phone models. Secondly, users require a Nothing phone – the Phone (1), Phone (2), or the Phone (2a) – to leverage GPT-4o’s capabilities through the earbuds.

Despite these limitations, the integration of ChatGPT with Nothing earbuds signifies a potential paradigm shift in the way we interact with wearable technology. Imagine a future where earbuds seamlessly integrate with AI assistants, providing real-time information, translation services, and voice-controlled device management – all through a convenient and discreet in-ear form factor.

While the potential applications are enticing, it’s important to acknowledge the ongoing discussions surrounding the safety and security of advanced AI models like GPT-4o. OpenAI, the developer behind GPT-4o, emphasizes its commitment to responsible development, implementing various safeguards during training and deployment. As this technology evolves, continued vigilance and ethical considerations remain paramount.

PR Newswire

Tompkins Robotics Announces Transcend Robotics Execution Platform

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ORLANDO, Fla., May 16, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Tompkins Robotics, a leader in innovative robotics automation solutions, today announced the launch of a new set of integrated software applications, the Transcend Robotics Execution Platform. The Transcend platform represents an expanded suite of software applications, including Transcend Orchestrate, Transcend Connect, and Transcend Mobile, which together will further power the company’s robotics automation solutions. This launch marks a significant evolution in Tompkins Robotics’ commitment to deliver stable, cost-effective robotics automation solutions to customers worldwide. 

Tompkins Robotics Transcend Robotics Execution Platform
Tompkins Robotics Transcend Robotics Execution Platform

“We are incredibly excited to bring the Transcend software platform to the market,” said Mike Futch, Chief Executive Officer at Tompkins Robotics. “At Tompkins Robotics, our mission is to deliver innovative robotic solutions to solve the most challenging supply chain problems, and from our years of experience in helping customers achieve their automation goals, we know with certainty that software is the key. Launching these new products today will enable us to bring the next generation of robotic automation solutions to our customers.” 

Transcend Orchestrate, Transcend Connect, and Transcend Mobile combine to offer a functional and stable software system, powering critical pharmaceutical sortation solutions, high-demand e-commerce operations, as well as parcel and store replenishment systems. Formerly named “tWES,” the Transcend Orchestrate application powers the company’s flagship tSort automation solution. Transcend Connect builds upon years of experience deploying tSort solutions and is a fully configurable integration platform. More than a simple integration layer, Transcend Connect is a key component bridging robotics solutions and customer systems, enabling improved business efficiency and increased operational scale. And finally, Transcend Mobile brings a modern mobile experience to customers.

“Transcend represents a leap forward in robotics automation software,” said Bill Pelzar, Chief Technology Officer at Tompkins Robotics. “By combining our extensive experience with industry-leading technology, we’ve created a solution that goes above and beyond traditional warehouse execution software offerings, meeting the needs of today’s warehouses and fulfillment centers while also anticipating future challenges.”

For more information about Transcend and Tompkins Robotics, please visit www.tompkinsrobotics.com.

About Tompkins Robotics 
Founded in 2017, Tompkins Robotics is a global leader in robotic sortation solutions for distribution and fulfillment operations. Building on momentum from the award-winning tSort robotic sortation solution, the company continues to develop innovative robotic solutions to solve the most challenging supply chain problems. For more information, please visit www.tompkinsrobotics.com.

Contact
Lee Ann Vallerga
Marketing Director
Tompkins Robotics
marketing@tompkinsrobotics.com

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