The telco industry is getting a much-needed push further into digitization with AWS’s newest offering. The company is significantly expanding its telco-focused offerings with the introduction of AWS Outposts racks and servers designed specifically for the unique demands of the telecommunications industry. These new offerings extend AWS infrastructure and services to the edge of the network, enabling telcos to modernize their infrastructure and accelerate the deployment of virtualized and cloud-based networks.
AWS Outposts racks are engineered to handle the demanding requirements of high-throughput, network-intensive workloads, such as 5G Core User Plane Function (UPF) and RAN Central Unit (CU). These racks provide a cost-efficient solution for scaling traffic and meeting the increasing throughput demands of 5G networks.
By deploying AWS Outposts racks, telcos gain the flexibility to place workloads at different locations based on latency, throughput, and traffic aggregation requirements. This enables them to optimize network performance and support advanced 5G use cases.
Key Features:
Support for high-throughput, network-intensive workloads: The racks leverage EC2 bare metal instances and a bare metal network fabric that can scale to meet increasing performance requirements.
Enhanced security with AWS Nitro System: The new Amazon EC2 bare metal instances on the AWS Outposts racks are built on the same AWS Nitro System that powers modern Amazon EC2 instances in the AWS Regions.
Automated deployment and scaling: The racks support pre-validated Amazon Elastic Kubernetes Service (Amazon EKS) add-ons required to automate the deployment, management, and scaling of microservices-based 5G network functions.
Integration with regional AWS services: Telcos can run some AWS services locally and connect to a broad range of services available in the parent AWS Region.
AWS Outposts Servers: Enabling Cloud RAN Deployments
AWS Outposts servers are designed from the ground up for Cloud RAN workloads, meeting the stringent requirements of RAN DU workloads at the edge of the network, such as RAN cell towers. These servers enable telcos to leverage cloud infrastructure and services to deploy virtualized RAN solutions, accelerating 5G adoption and enabling new revenue-generating services.
Key Features:
Reduced operational complexity: The servers come with pre-integrated L1 acceleration card, hardware, operating system, and Container as a Service (CaaS).
Accelerated innovation: Telcos can seamlessly take advantage of over 200 AWS services in AWS Regions to develop new revenue-generating services.
High performance with AWS Graviton3 processors: The servers are powered by AWS Graviton3-based EC2 instances, delivering high compute performance and capacity as well as additional compute options for Cloud RAN and AI inference at the edge.
Pre-integrated with RAN vendors: AWS is working with RAN vendors to integrate their accelerator cards as future options.
Impact on the Telco Industry
The new AWS Outposts offerings are poised to have a significant impact on the telco industry. By extending AWS infrastructure and services to the edge of the network, telcos can modernize their networks and accelerate the deployment of virtualized and cloud-based infrastructure. This empowers them to offer new and innovative services to their customers, improve operational efficiency, and reduce costs. The ability to run demanding workloads with low latency and high throughput at the network edge opens up new possibilities for 5G use cases and service offerings. The enhanced security and automation capabilities further contribute to improved operational efficiency and cost optimization. Ultimately, these AWS Outposts offerings equip telcos with the tools and infrastructure needed to embrace the agility and scalability of the cloud, driving innovation and enabling them to thrive in the rapidly evolving telecommunications landscape.
Most employees have had moments when workplace technology lets them down, and they wish they were someone with the ‘magic touch’ to make tech work and fix any problem. But what if IT departments had a helping hand that could give everyone the ‘magic touch’?
Ironically, many of the apps that are meant to make life simpler for employees are doing the exact opposite. In Malaysia, the digital skills gap among employees presents a significant challenge. A survey revealed that 74.5% of respondents identified a substantial gap between entry-level and advanced digital skills required in the workplace. This puts a burden on IT administrators to simplify the digital landscape wherever possible, removing hurdles and supporting employees in their day-to-day work.
Delivering the Magic Touch
For system administrators and people who are naturally ‘good with tech’, the ‘magic touch’ often comes from years of experience, technical qualifications and a willingness to try everything until something works. But can the digital workplace be delivered in a way which makes all employees feel like they have that ‘magic touch’ too?
AI-powered workplace solutions offer ways to make employees feel less frustrated with their technology while delivering a more personalized service. Harnessing AI ensures that IT teams are not overwhelmed with demands from colleagues. For the end user, generative AI chatbots let them make device decisions using plain language, with AI-infused device intelligence able to predict and fix software issues before they cause major problems, making managing and using their workplace IT feel effortless.
Harnessing the Power of AI
The power of AI can help smooth over the sometimes counterintuitive processes that seasoned IT professionals are so accustomed to. At Lenovo, we have first-hand experience of these tools’ power as we use them ourselves. For example, our Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 13 Aura Edition that is operating on Windows 11 Pro. Seize the moment with the security to thrive anywhere and the performance to meet your boldest goals. Windows 11 Pro devices are easy to use and manage, with AI-enhanced efficiency and compatibility with existing technology including mission-critical apps and hardware. Devices with AI-guided knowledge bases can deliver ‘self-help’ and ‘self-heal’ solutions, regardless of whether employees are working at 10 am or 2 am. It is a bit like having your very own IT manager available on-call 24/7. For hybrid workforces, this powerful, instant support can be a game-changer, meaning that minor IT problems never progress to the point where they stop people working.
For service desk workers, AI can also bring powerful analytics, increasing the number of issues that can be solved pre-emptively, remotely and without the need for a ticket to be raised. This simplifies the day-to-day work of IT service desk teams, with an easy-to-use ‘single pane of glass’ portal delivering actionable insights in an easy-to-understand fashion.
Generative AI-powered platforms also anticipate the management of critical tasks to keep environments secure, while persona-based configuration means IT leaders can rapidly tailor suites of apps and services for different types of users. IT teams can ensure their colleagues get to work faster with the right tools at their fingertips, offering seamless and personalized digital experiences, removing hassle on both sides and freeing up IT teams to work on projects that will drive improvements and efficiencies across the workplace. In fact, 83% of CIOs expect AI to drive productivity gains within the next one to two years, further highlighting the transformative potential of AI in optimizing workflows and enhancing productivity.
Solving Problems Before They Happen
AI is also being used to predict common problems before they happen. This means devices are configured and patched so that employees always have the most up-to-date, secure and stable version of the software they need. IT managers can be freed from chasing seemingly endless day-to-day IT issues, and focus on transforming the way their businesses use technology. Managers are provided with proactive device insights and AI-driven predictive analytics which help keep devices running at peak performance, while they focus on the bigger picture and employees have a device that ‘just works’.
A Smarter Workplace
The workplace has changed beyond recognition in recent years, and today’s hybrid employees are switching between dozens of apps and learning new skills. Choosing the right managed service, such as Lenovo’s Digital Workplace Solutions, provides an AI-powered helping hand to both frontline employees and the IT managers helping to oversee their devices. For employees, this means personalized services and IT problems that are solved first time, making them feel like they have that ‘magic touch’ with their work PC. For IT departments, this spells a shift away from reacting to problems to anticipating them, and the freedom to focus on transforming the business through new technologies such as AI. Most importantly, more people benefit from the ‘magic touch’ and minimize downtime because of common IT issues.
Telekom Malaysia (TM) has announced the gradual phasing out of its legacy copper-based broadband services, a move that will culminate in the full discontinuation of offerings like Streamyx by February 28, 2025. This decision marks a significant turning point in Malaysia’s telecommunications story, bringing to a close the era of copper-based internet access that, for many, defined their early online experiences.
End of an Era for Malaysians
Streamyx holds a special place in the memories of many Malaysians. It was often their first taste of broadband internet, opening up a world of faster online access, enabling activities like web browsing, email communication, and early forays into online gaming. It served as a crucial bridge, connecting homes and businesses to the burgeoning digital landscape. However, as technology marched forward and the demand for ever-increasing speeds and bandwidth grew, the inherent limitations of copper-based infrastructure became more and more apparent. Fibre optic technology, with its vastly superior capabilities, emerged as the clear successor, promising a future of seamless connectivity.
TM’s decision to phase out Streamyx and other copper-based services like Unifi Lite is a reflection of this inevitable technological progression. Copper infrastructure, while groundbreaking in its time, is now ageing and struggles to keep pace with the demands of today’s internet usage. Fibre optic cables offer significantly faster speeds, lower latency, and improved reliability, making them the ideal choice for supporting bandwidth-intensive applications like high-definition video streaming, online gaming, and cloud-based services. The transition to fibre isn’t simply an upgrade; it’s a necessary step to ensure Malaysia’s digital infrastructure can support a modern, connected society.
Streamyx and Unifi Lite will end on February 28 2025
The services directly impacted by this announcement include Streamyx and Unifi Lite, both of which rely on copper lines to deliver internet access. Existing customers on these plans will need to transition to other TM offerings or explore alternatives from other internet service providers. TM has stated its commitment to working closely with affected users to ensure a smooth transition, offering guidance and support throughout the process.
For consumers currently using Streamyx or Unifi Lite, several options are available. The most straightforward path is to migrate to a Unifi fibre plan. This offers the most direct upgrade, providing access to significantly faster speeds and improved performance. TM is likely to offer various incentives and packages to encourage this transition. However, it’s important to acknowledge that fibre availability isn’t universal across Malaysia. In areas where Unifi fibre is not yet accessible, customers will need to consider other solutions.
These alternatives include wireless internet services, such as 4G and 5G home broadband. These services use mobile networks to deliver internet access and can be a viable option for those in areas without fibre coverage. However, it’s essential to be aware of potential data caps and possible latency issues associated with wireless broadband. Another option is to explore offerings from other internet service providers in the area. Several companies offer fibre and wireless broadband plans, and comparing these options is crucial for finding the best fit in terms of speed, price, and availability.
As we move deeper into 2025, the intersection of technology and human experience is evolving at an unprecedented pace. The Accenture Life Trends 2025 report sheds light on key shifts in consumer behaviour, while recent insights from industry experts further deepen our understanding of how AI, digital personalization, and trust are reshaping daily interactions. With digital fatigue on the rise and younger generations redefining human connection, AI is playing an increasingly central role in personalization. To stay relevant, businesses must navigate these shifts carefully, ensuring that technology enhances rather than diminishes meaningful interactions.
Source: Accenture
“Organizations are increasingly challenged by scams, misinformation, and deepfakes, fueled by generative AI advancements“
Sourabh Agrawal, Country GTM Lead, Malaysia, Accenture Song
Rebuilding Trust in an AI-Driven World
Generative AI has revolutionized content creation, but it has also contributed to misinformation, scams, and deepfakes, leading to a growing digital trust crisis. For instance, in 2024, a widely circulated deepfake video falsely depicted a prominent public figure endorsing a fraudulent investment scheme, causing significant financial losses. Incidents like these highlight the urgent need for stronger digital verification measures. In Malaysia, 37% of consumers reported experiencing deepfake-related scams in 2024, highlighting the urgency of this issue.
To combat distrust, businesses must integrate authenticity verification tools, employ advanced deepfake detection, and prioritize transparent communication. Sourabh Agrawal, Country GTM Lead, Malaysia, Accenture Song, emphasizes that “clear customer verification methods should be integrated into communications, commerce, and product design to create trust at every touchpoint.” Companies must not only verify their digital interactions but also educate consumers on recognizing authentic content. By embedding trust at every touchpoint, businesses can mitigate the growing hesitation consumers feel in digital spaces.
The Personalization Paradox: Convenience vs. Ethical Concerns
Consumers increasingly demand hyper-personalized experiences, yet they are more aware than ever of the risks associated with data collection and AI-driven recommendations. Personalization must evolve to be ethically sound, inclusive, and privacy-focused.
Sourabh Agrawal explains that “businesses must embed trust, inclusivity, and transparency into every customer experience” to ensure personalization strategies remain ethical. To achieve this, businesses must:
Collect only essential data while ensuring strong security measures.
Design AI models that are fair and unbiased, eliminating unintended discrimination.
Balance personalization with human oversight, ensuring AI enhances experiences rather than replacing human touchpoints.
These steps build deeper trust, ensuring that customers feel valued and respected rather than surveilled or manipulated.
Rising Consumer Expectations: The Need for Speed and Relevance
Consumer impatience is growing rapidly, fueled by both digital transformation and shifting societal expectations. The demand for instant gratification, shaped by faster service models and on-demand solutions, is redefining traditional industries. The demand for instant gratification, shaped by faster service models and on-demand solutions, has reshaped industries like healthcare and finance, where patience was traditionally required.
In Malaysia, 77% of people prioritize quick results, disrupting industries that traditionally require patience, such as healthcare and finance. Influencers are beginning to shape conversations around health, wealth and personal growth. A huge shift from their focus on lifestyle content. This shift pressures brands to deliver faster, more relevant solutions or risk losing customers to digital communities providing alternative guidance.
Businesses must adapt by leveraging AI to streamline experiences while maintaining genuine human connections. Agrawal notes that “77% of Malaysians prioritize quick outcomes, forcing businesses to adapt swiftly and ensure AI-driven experiences remain meaningful and relevant.” Rapid service delivery must be balanced with credibility, ensuring speed does not come at the cost of trust.
Digital Fatigue: AI’s Role in Restoring Balance
While digital engagement remains dominant, many consumers are deliberately seeking simplicity, opting for experiences that balance convenience with authenticity. In Malaysia, 38% of respondents cited a positive experience with digital interactions, while an equal percentage appreciated the “joy of missing out”—intentionally stepping away from digital spaces. This highlights a growing tension between convenience and the desire for real-world, sensory-rich experiences.
Source: Accenture
“Personalization should reflect a brand’s commitment to human-centric experiences, creating value for customers by addressing their unique needs while respecting their individuality.”
Sourabh Agrawal, Country GTM Lead, Malaysia, Accenture Song
Agrawal highlights that “38% of Malaysians attributed their most enjoyable experience to something digital, while an equal percentage appreciated the ‘joy of missing out’ on technology.” AI can address digital fatigue by:
Streamlining interactions rather than overwhelming users with excessive notifications.
Maintaining a balance between automation and human touch, ensuring personalization enhances rather than dominates interactions.
Offering customized digital detox options, helping users engage more intentionally with technology.
The traditional measure of digital success—time spent on platforms—is becoming outdated. As consumers embrace digital detoxes and mindful engagement, brands must explore alternative strategies such as:
Retail activations and on-the-ground brand experiences.
Engagement through television, streaming, and offline events.
Measuring success through customer sentiment, loyalty, and trust rather than just screen time.
Younger Generations are Reshaping Human Connection
The way younger consumers engage with technology is significantly different from previous generations, shaped by both rapid technological advancements and evolving societal values. While they embrace digital convenience, they also seek deeper, more authentic interactions, balancing online and offline experiences in new ways. In Malaysia, 63% of young adults between the ages of 18-24 years believe social media plays a crucial role in shaping their identity, compared to just 33% of those over 55 years.
Source: Accenture
“A growing number of individuals are embracing digital detoxes, stepping away from social media and digital distractions to enhance mental clarity and emotional well-being. This shift, rooted in mindfulness, highlights the importance of intentional breaks from technology.“
Sourabh Agrawal, Country GTM Lead, Malaysia, Accenture Song
While digital platforms provide empowerment, younger consumers are also driving a shift towards physical, finite experiences. Trends like disposable cameras and nostalgia-driven products reflect a growing preference for tangible, real-world interactions over purely digital ones. Brands must rethink personalization strategies, incorporating elements that resonate beyond the screen.
The Future of Human-Led Innovation in an AI-Dominated Era
As automation and AI continue to evolve, human oversight remains critical. Key opportunities for human-led innovation include:
Customer service: AI can handle routine inquiries, but human agents are essential for emotionally complex interactions.
Healthcare: AI supports diagnostics, but human expertise ensures empathy and nuanced care.
Ethical AI governance: Businesses must ensure AI-driven processes remain transparent, fair, and responsible.
For businesses, the future lies in using AI as an enabler rather than a replacement, ensuring technology complements rather than overshadows human intuition and creativity. Agrawal suggests that “the greatest opportunities for human-led innovation lie in blending AI capabilities with human insights to create more personalized, authentic experiences.”—leveraging technology to augment human intuition, creativity, and ethical decision-making.
Reshaping the AI Narrative: Human Empowerment Over Automation
Consumers are wary of AI’s potential to replace human roles, foster misinformation, and erode trust. Businesses must counteract this scepticism by positioning AI as a tool for human empowerment.
This requires:
Transparency in AI deployment, ensuring customers understand how their data is used.
Ethical AI implementation, reinforcing AI as a support mechanism rather than an authoritative decision-maker.
Investment in AI for consumer protection, using technology to detect fraud and enhance safety.
By aligning AI with human values, companies can reshape the narrative and reinforce the role of technology as a trust-building, experience-enhancing force.
The Road Ahead is About Embracing Balance and Augmenting Human Experiences
The evolving relationship between technology and human experience is complex, balancing personalization, trust, and digital well-being. Businesses must find ways to harness AI’s power without eroding authenticity, ensuring that digital experiences enhance rather than replace meaningful human interactions. As younger generations drive shifts in engagement and expectations, companies that embrace transparency, ethical AI, and a mix of digital and real-world strategies will be the ones that foster lasting consumer loyalty. Businesses that prioritize ethical AI, meaningful interactions, and consumer-centric innovation will be best positioned to thrive in 2025 and beyond.
Ultimately, technology should serve humanity, enhancing rather than replacing real-world experiences and meaningful connections. Companies that embrace this philosophy will lead the future of digital transformation while preserving the essential human connection at its core.
Graphisoft is working on revolutionising the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry with its cutting-edge Building Information Modeling (BIM) solutions. By mindfully integrating Generative AI into its software, Graphisoft is enabling professionals to work smarter, streamline workflows, and drive sustainable design practices. From its pioneering role in BIM technology to its contributions to iconic projects like Malaysia’s Merdeka 118 skyscraper, Graphisoft is at the forefront of technological innovation in the AEC sector.
Founded in 1982 by Hungarian architects and mathematicians, Graphisoft is often credited as the ancestor of BIM technology. Over the decades, it has introduced game-changing solutions, starting with the creation of Archicad, the world’s first 3D architectural design software. Today, the company operates in more than 100 countries and supports 29 languages, empowering a global user base of over 200,000 architects and engineers. Its flagship offerings, including Archicad, BIMx, and BIMcloud, have redefined collaborative design, sustainability, and project management in the AEC industry.
Mindfully Imbuing the Design Process with Generative AI
Generative AI has become a cornerstone of Graphisoft’s recent innovations, introducing tools that redefine design ideation and execution. The AI-powered features in Archicad allow architects to visualize early-stage concepts with the AI Visualizer, powered by Stable Diffusion. This tool generates highly detailed 3D renderings from basic design models, enabling architects to refine concepts faster and present them more effectively to clients.
AI also enhances the design process by generating multiple variations from simple text prompts, allowing architects to explore different possibilities without additional costs. Graphisoft is further leveraging AI by automating compliance checks, sustainability assessments, and workflow optimization. These tools are designed to save time and reduce the complexity of regulatory requirements, enabling architects to focus more on creativity and design excellence.
The company’s research and development in AI continue to advance predictive modelling capabilities, allowing users to anticipate design challenges before they occur. As AI continues to evolve, Graphisoft is actively working on refining its machine-learning algorithms to provide increasingly accurate and efficient solutions tailored to the unique needs of the AEC industry.
Sustainability as a Core Principle
Sustainability is no longer a choice but a necessity in the construction industry, and Graphisoft’s tools are at the forefront of promoting green building practices. Lifecycle assessment integration and energy analysis in Archicad allow architects to assess the environmental impact of materials and construction processes early in the design phase. Advanced simulations help optimize energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions, while renovation-focused tools promote adaptive reuse and minimize construction waste.
Graphisoft’s commitment to sustainability is exemplified in projects like the Paris Athletes’ Village, which leveraged Archicad and BIMcloud to prioritize eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient designs. To mitigate the carbon footprint of AI and ML processes, Graphisoft employs strategies such as optimizing AI models, using renewable energy-powered data centres, and integrating lifecycle carbon accounting into its tools. These measures reflect its dedication to balancing innovation with environmental responsibility.
Strengthening Roots in Malaysia
Malaysia has emerged as a key market for Graphisoft, driven by rapid urban development and government-mandated BIM adoption for projects exceeding RM10 million. The company’s involvement in the iconic Merdeka 118 project, the world’s second-tallest skyscraper, highlights its impact on Malaysia’s architectural landscape.
Source: Arup | Merdeka 118 towering in the Kuala Lumpur Skyline
Graphisoft’s growth strategy in Malaysia focuses on industry partnerships, educational outreach, and community engagement. Collaborations with organizations like the Public Works Department (JKR) and IME Technology ensure that Graphisoft’s solutions meet local regulatory standards and project requirements. By partnering with institutions such as Universiti Malaya and Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Graphisoft looks to equip future architects and engineers with essential BIM skills, fostering a BIM-ready workforce. Events like Archicad User Group meetings and workshops with the Malaysian Institute of Architects (PAM) serve as platforms for knowledge-sharing and advocacy, reinforcing Graphisoft’s presence in the local AEC community.
Beyond training and compliance, Graphisoft is actively engaging with Malaysia’s private sector and real estate developers to integrate BIM at earlier project stages, ensuring better resource allocation and more sustainable building practices. The push for smart city development in Kuala Lumpur and other urban centers aligns with Graphisoft’s expertise in digital twins and AI-enhanced simulations.
By integrating these technologies into large-scale infrastructure projects, the company is playing a pivotal role in shaping Malaysia’s digital transformation in construction and urban planning. Through sustained partnerships, continuous education initiatives, and active involvement in Malaysia’s infrastructure evolution, Graphisoft is positioned as a key enabler of a more technologically advanced and environmentally conscious construction landscape in the country.
Adapting to Industry Trends
The global AEC industry is undergoing a significant transformation, with the BIM market expected to grow by USD 13.33 billion between 2024 and 2028. Cloud collaboration has become increasingly essential, with post-pandemic reliance on cloud-based solutions making tools like BIMcloud indispensable for remote work and global project coordination. The integration of digital twins with smart city initiatives enables predictive maintenance and urban planning, aligning with Malaysia’s infrastructure goals. The adoption of OPEN BIM standards ensures interoperability, fostering seamless collaboration among diverse stakeholders and driving more efficient and transparent project workflows.
Graphisoft’s commitment to advancing AI-driven solutions is evident in its roadmap for future developments. The company plans to expand capabilities in automated compliance checks, sustainability assessments, and real-time collaboration to meet the demands of modern architecture. However, challenges persist, including ensuring data quality and integration, addressing computational resource constraints, and bridging the skills gap among AEC professionals. Graphisoft’s focus on user-friendly interfaces and targeted training initiatives aims to overcome these barriers, promoting widespread AI adoption and enabling firms of all sizes to leverage AI-driven efficiencies in their design processes.
Shaping the Future of the AEC Industry
Graphisoft is shaping the AEC industry through its integration of AI, sustainability-driven design tools, and commitment to interoperability. By strengthening its foothold in Malaysia, Graphisoft is contributing to the country’s architectural innovation, aligning with national goals for digital transformation and sustainable infrastructure development. Its partnerships with government agencies, academic institutions, and industry leaders help create a more BIM-ready workforce, ensuring that Malaysia remains competitive in the evolving global construction landscape.
As challenges in data integration, AI adoption, and regulatory compliance continue to shape the industry, Graphisoft’s focus on practical, user-driven solutions positions it as a key player in the future of architectural technology. The company’s influence will be felt not only in the development of smarter, greener buildings but also in how industry professionals collaborate, innovate, and shape the built environment of tomorrow.
OpenAI has unveiled o3-mini, its latest language model designed for cost-effective reasoning, available now in both ChatGPT and the API. This model represents a significant advancement in the capabilities of smaller language models, excelling in STEM fields like science, math, and coding, while maintaining the low cost and reduced latency of its predecessor, o1-mini.
o3-mini isn’t just a scaled-down version of a larger model. It’s a purpose-built reasoning model, optimized for tasks requiring logical deduction and problem-solving, particularly in technical domains. OpenAI highlights its exceptional STEM capabilities, making it a powerful tool for tackling complex scientific, mathematical, and coding challenges. This focus differentiates it from models primarily designed for text generation or code completion, positioning o3-mini as a specialized instrument for technical tasks.
A key feature of o3-mini is its support for developer-centric functionalities, including function calling, structured outputs, and developer messages. These features make it production-ready, allowing developers to seamlessly integrate it into real-world applications. Like o1-mini and o1-preview, o3-mini also supports streaming, enabling dynamic and interactive experiences. Furthermore, developers can choose from low, medium, and high reasoning effort options, providing flexibility to optimize for speed or accuracy depending on the specific use case. It’s important to note that o3-mini does not support vision capabilities; for visual reasoning tasks, developers should continue using the o1 model. o3-mini is currently being rolled out in the Chat Completions API, Assistants API, and Batch API to select developers in API usage tiers 3-5.
ChatGPT Plus, Team, and Pro users gain immediate access to o3-mini, with Enterprise access following in February. o3-mini will replace o1-mini in the model picker, offering higher rate limits and lower latency. Specifically, the rate limit for Plus and Team users triples from 50 messages per day with o1-mini to 150 messages per day with o3-mini. Adding another layer of utility, o3-mini now integrates with search, providing up-to-date answers with links to relevant web sources—an early prototype of search integration across OpenAI’s reasoning models.
Free plan users also get a chance to experience o3-mini by selecting ‘Reason’ in the message composer or regenerating a response. This marks the first time a reasoning model has been made available to free users in ChatGPT.
While o1 remains OpenAI’s general knowledge reasoning model, o3-mini serves as a specialized alternative for technical domains demanding precision and speed. In ChatGPT, o3-mini defaults to medium reasoning effort, balancing speed and accuracy. Paid users can also select o3-mini-high for more complex tasks requiring higher intelligence, though this option may result in slightly longer response times. Pro users have unlimited access to both o3-mini and o3-mini-high.
According to OpenAI, o3-mini’s performance is impressive. With medium reasoning effort, it matches o1’s performance in math, coding, and science, but delivers faster responses. Expert evaluations have shown that o3-mini produces more accurate and clearer answers with stronger reasoning abilities than o1-mini. Testers preferred o3-mini’s responses 56% of the time and observed a 39% reduction in major errors on challenging real-world questions. With medium reasoning effort, o3-mini matches the performance of o1 on challenging reasoning and intelligence evaluations like AIME and GPQA. Its performance extends across various benchmarks, including competition math (AIME), PhD-level science questions (GPQA Diamond), research-level mathematics (FrontierMath), competition coding (Codeforces), software engineering (SWE-bench Verified), and LiveBench coding. In all these areas, o3-mini demonstrates significant improvements over its predecessor, particularly with high reasoning effort.
Speed and efficiency are also hallmarks of o3-mini. It delivers responses 24% faster than o1-mini, with an average response time of 7.7 seconds compared to 10.16 seconds for o1-mini. o3-mini also boasts a 2500ms faster time to first token than o1-mini.
Safety is paramount. OpenAI employs techniques like deliberative alignment to ensure o3-mini responds safely, training the model to consider human-written safety specifications before answering prompts. Like o1, o3-mini surpasses GPT-4 on challenging safety and jailbreak evaluations. Rigorous safety assessments, external red-teaming, and safety evaluations are conducted before deployment.
It’s worth noting that o3-mini launches on the tails of DeepSeek’s R1 model. This model has become quite the disruptor in the Generative AI space affecting companies like Open AI and NVIDIA. With claims that the model is running on more modest hardware and – more importantly – Huawei’s processors. The model not only breaks the perceived monopoly and leadership of America in the AI arena, but it also shows a shift that may break the monopolistic hold US-based companies have had thus far. Open AI’s o3-mini follows DeepSeek’s R1 when it comes to power efficiency and speed.
How will it affect the market in the long run? We can’t say for sure, but one thing we do know is DeepSeek is breaking a lot of preconceptions that China is unable to keep up with AI movement due to tariffs and trade restrictions currently in place.
For over three decade, Dell has built brand loyalty with its XPS, Inspiron, and Latitude lines. These names have become synonymous with specific types of Dell computers, catering to different needs and budgets. However, in a surprising move, Dell has announced a major rebranding, ditching these familiar names for a more streamlined approach.
The End of an Era: XPS, Inspiron, and Latitude No More
Gone are the days of browsing for the latest XPS 13 or Inspiron 15. Dell is completely revamping its PC naming scheme, opting for a shorter and simpler system. Under the new system, Dell PCs will be categorized under three main umbrellas: Dell, Dell Pro, and Dell Pro Max. This approach is reminiscent of Apple’s iPhone lineup, with “Pro” and “Pro Max” denoting higher-end configurations.
Source: Dell Technologies
The immediate impact on consumers is a learning curve. Familiar names have been replaced with more generic ones. However, Dell assures us that the new system aims to simplify the buying process. Here’s a breakdown of the new categories:
Dell: This is the base category, catering to everyday computing needs for school, work, and play. It will likely encompass a range of configurations at various price points.
Dell Pro: Designed for professional-grade productivity, these PCs will likely feature more powerful processors, larger RAM options, and potentially business-oriented features.
Dell Pro Max: Sitting at the top of the new hierarchy, the Dell Pro Max is likely to be Dell’s flagship line, offering the most powerful configurations for demanding users like content creators and engineers.
Within each category, Dell will further differentiate models with suffixes like “Base,” “Plus,” and “Premium,” indicating increasing specifications and features.
The rebranding goes beyond just names. Dell is also introducing a new design aesthetic across its PC portfolio, with a focus on clean lines, premium materials, and a sleek look. Additionally, Dell is heavily emphasizing its commitment to AI-powered features within the new lineup. They claim these features will enhance user experience with functions like intelligent battery optimization and personalized performance profiles.
The “iPhone-ification” of Dell PCs
The decision to adopt a more iPhone-like naming scheme has raised eyebrows. Some see it as a logical step towards simplicity, while others question the need to abandon well-established brand names. Only time will tell if this strategy resonates with consumers.
There are potential benefits to Dell’s rebranding. A simpler naming scheme could make it easier for consumers to navigate the vast array of Dell PC options. Furthermore, the focus on “Dell” as the overarching brand could strengthen Dell’s overall brand identity.
The biggest challenge may be the loss of brand recognition associated with the older names. Consumers may initially find it confusing to navigate the new categories, especially when comparing Dell PCs with those of competitors who retain established brand names. Additionally, the lack of specific product names within each category (such as XPS 13) could make it harder for users to research and compare specific models.
While the potential benefits of a simpler and more streamlined approach are clear, the challenge lies in overcoming the loss of brand recognition and navigating the initial confusion among consumers. The success of this strategy will depend on Dell’s ability to effectively communicate the new naming system and the value proposition of each category. Only time will tell if consumers embrace the “new Dell” or yearn for the familiar names of the past.
Alliance Bank Malaysia has partnered with Samsung and Google to offer its customers greater convenience and security through two popular mobile payment platforms – Samsung Pay and Google Pay. This collaboration allows Alliance Bank Visa credit cardholders to seamlessly integrate their cards with the Samsung Wallet and Google Wallet apps and make contactless payments at millions of merchants worldwide.
This strategic move aligns perfectly with Alliance Bank’s commitment to providing innovative and user-friendly payment solutions. By leveraging Near Field Communication (NFC) technology, both Samsung Pay and Google Pay empower cardholders to tap and pay securely using their Android smartphones or wearables. Whether shopping online, browsing in-store, or utilizing public transportation, Alliance Bank customers can now enjoy a hassle-free payment experience with just a tap of their device.
From Left: Gan Pai Li, Group Chief Consumer Banking Officer, Alliance Bank; Charles Kim, President, Samsung Malaysia; Kellee Kam, Group Chief Executive Officer, Alliance Bank; Previn Pillay, Head of Global Acquirers, Visa.
This partnership goes beyond simply offering new payment options. It significantly expands the capabilities of Alliance Bank’s award-winning Visa Platinum Virtual Credit Card (VCC). Previously known for its secure online transactions with Dynamic Card Number (DCN) technology (generating unique, temporary card numbers for single-use purchases), the VCC can now be used for in-store purchases as well. This integration with Samsung Wallet and Google Wallet creates a versatile payment platform that caters to the growing demand for mobile payment solutions, particularly among tech-savvy customers seeking secure and flexible options.
“We continuously innovate our customer-centric propositions to deliver greater value and convenience,” said Mr. Kellee Kam, Group Chief Executive Officer of Alliance Bank. “In today’s fast-paced world, security and ease of transaction are paramount when transacting digitally. With Samsung Pay and Google Pay integrated across all our Visa credit card products, including the Visa Platinum Virtual Credit Card with its unique card number generation, customers can now enjoy the same level of high security and flexibility for in-store payments as they do for online transactions.” The collaboration makes Alliance Bank one of the banks whose products – virtual or otherwise – are integrated with digital payment wallets like Samsung Wallet and Google Wallet via the respective Pay platforms. This is becoming increasingly important as users move to rely on digital payments and aggregate wallets native to their smartphones. This also expands user choice beyond just Apple Pay.
Representatives from both Samsung and Google echoed these sentiments. Charles Kim, President of Samsung Malaysia Electronics, highlighted their commitment to “revolutionizing the future of mobile technology” by enabling effortless and secure transactions through Samsung Wallet. Serene Gay, Group Country Manager for Visa, emphasized the growing importance of mobile contactless payments and lauded Alliance Bank for contributing to this growth in Malaysia.
To incentivize cardholders to utilize Samsung Wallet, Alliance Bank is offering an RM5 e-voucher at select merchants during a promotional period. Additionally, the top spenders using Samsung Wallet throughout the campaign will have a chance to win exciting prizes like the latest Galaxy smartphones and smartwatches. Furthermore, Alliance Bank Visa credit cardholders can enjoy a Buy-One-Free-One ice cream scoop offer at Inside Scoop stores when paying with Samsung Wallet or Google Wallet until March 2025.
This partnership aligns strategically with Alliance Bank’s broader vision of enhancing its digital offerings and fostering deeper customer engagement. The Bank has witnessed a significant increase in digital customer acquisition, with 40% of new customers joining in FY2024 through digital channels, particularly within the emerging affluent segment. The success of the VCC with Dynamic Card Number technology (over 70,000 new cards approved since its launch in April 2023) further underscores the growing demand for innovative digital solutions from Alliance Bank.
If you’re a Malaysian netizen who spends a significant amount of time scrolling through feeds and engaging with online communities, a recent development might have piqued your curiosity – the introduction of social media licensing in the country. Let’s delve into the nitty-gritty of this new regulation, unpack its implications, and see how it might impact your digital life.
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Towards Creating Better, More Accountable Internet Interactions
Imagine a vibrant online space brimming with information and connection, but also harboring the potential for negativity. That’s the reality of social media platforms, and Malaysia, like many countries, is grappling with how to maintain a healthy online ecosystem. The Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 (CMA) has been the cornerstone of regulating online activity in Malaysia. However, the rise of powerful social media platforms necessitated an update. Enter the social media licensing regime, introduced in July 2024 and enforced on January 1st, 2025.
The core objective of this licensing system is to promote responsible online behavior and empower authorities to combat issues like fake news, cyber-bullying, and the spread of harmful content. Think of it as a way to ensure these platforms operate within a framework that fosters a safe and positive online environment for everyone.
Who Needs a License?
Not all social media platforms are created equal. The licensing requirement applies specifically to platforms with at least eight million registered users in Malaysia. This threshold ensures regulations target the most influential and widely used platforms, which have a significant impact on shaping online discourse in the country.
The Licensing Process: What We Know So Far
While the Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), the regulatory body responsible for issuing licenses, has outlined the existence of a licensing process, specific details are still emerging. We know that platforms need to apply for an Application Service Provider Class License (ASP(C) License) under the CMA. This license acts as a formal agreement between the platform and the MCMC, outlining the platform’s responsibilities and compliance measures to address online safety concerns.
The Licensing Landscape: Who’s On Board and Who’s Not?
Now, here’s where things get interesting. As of January 2nd, 2025, some major players have already secured their licenses, while others are still in the process or have yet to apply. Here’s a quick rundown:
Licensed and Ready: TikTok and WeChat have successfully navigated the licensing process and are now operating under the new regulations. This means these platforms have demonstrated their commitment to complying with Malaysian online safety standards.
In the Process: Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, has reportedly initiated the process of obtaining a license. This suggests that these platforms are working towards compliance, although the exact timeline for approval remains to be seen.
Yet to Apply: Major platforms owners like Google (YouTube) and X (formerly Twitter) have not yet secured licenses. This raises some questions about their future operations in Malaysia. It’s important to note that this doesn’t necessarily mean these platforms are intentionally defying regulations; they might be in the process of gathering the necessary information or working through the application process.
The Stakes of Non-Compliance: What Happens Without a License?
The Malaysian government has been clear – operating a social media platform without a license is an offense punishable under the CMA. Penalties include hefty fines and even imprisonment for non-compliant platforms. Additionally, unlicensed platforms could face potential bans or restrictions on their operations within Malaysia.
The Unanswered Questions: A Work in Progress
As with any new regulation, there are questions that remain. One key uncertainty is the timeline for processing license applications. The fact that major platforms like Google and X haven’t yet secured licenses raises questions about potential delays and the impact it might have on users.
Another point of discussion is the specific content moderation policies that will be implemented by these licensed platforms. The MCMC has emphasized the need for platforms to establish clear guidelines to address hate speech, misinformation, and other harmful content, but the exact nature of these guidelines remains to be seen.
What This Means for You: The Road Ahead
The social media licensing regime in Malaysia represents a significant shift in the way online platforms operate in the country. The focus on online safety and responsible content creation is certainly a positive step. However, it’s important to remain vigilant and engaged in the ongoing discussion. As the licensing process unfolds and specific policies are implemented, users like yourselves will need to stay informed about how it might affect your online experience.
Stay tuned for further updates as the landscape of social media regulation in Malaysia continues to evolve. In the meantime, continue to utilize social media platforms responsibly and contribute to a positive online discourse. After all, a healthy online environment is a win-win for everyone!
Accenture has announced an expansion of its cybersecurity services, incorporating generative AI, deepfake protection, and quantum-safe data security solutions. These enhancements are designed to help clients across various industries strengthen their cyber resilience and adapt to the evolving threat landscape.
Addressing the Rise of AI-Driven Cyberattacks
Accenture’s cyber intelligence (ACI) researchers have observed a significant increase in the use of AI by cybercriminals. Specifically, they reported a 223% surge in deepfake-related tool trading on dark web forums in the first quarter of 2024 compared to the same period in 2023. This trend underscores the need for organizations to implement advanced cybersecurity measures capable of detecting, responding to, predicting, and preventing AI-driven threats in real time.
New Cybersecurity Services to Counter Emerging Threats
To address these evolving challenges, Accenture is introducing several new services. Each of these are targeted services aiming to help deal with specific threats and address potential security vulnerabilities that may come as a result.
Foremost among them are Accenture’s Secure AI Solutions that focuses on building resilience throughout the entire AI program lifecycle. It includes best practices for developing secure AI frameworks, policies, and processes. It also provides capabilities to assess and protect access, data, models, and infrastructure, building trust in AI systems by design. Red-teaming and adversarial simulations are used to identify vulnerabilities in AI systems, including large language models (LLMs), and a Generative AI Security Diagnostic is available to detect and secure unauthorized AI deployments.
Together with this, Deepfake Protection will provide security testing, monitoring, and detection of deepfakes, leveraging partner technologies such as Reality Defender. This aims to protect organizations from the impact of deepfakes on customer contact centers, business video conferences, and other critical communication channels.
Accenture is also introducing a cloud-based solution called its Business Cyber Crisis Recovery. This cloud-based solution is designed to help organizations in sectors like healthcare, telecommunications, and oil & gas quickly restore essential infrastructure following a cyberattack. The goal is to significantly reduce downtime, enabling operations to resume in hours rather than weeks.
Rounding up its offerings, the Quantum Security Suite brings a bevvy of services that help organizations develop robust quantum security strategies. It includes identifying vulnerable encryption across the enterprise and replacing outdated technology with the latest quantum-safe algorithms recommended by the US National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST).
Enhancing Core Cybersecurity Services with Generative AI
Accenture is also integrating generative AI into its core cybersecurity offerings through Accenture mySecurity, a centralized suite of assets. This integration aims to improve the speed and efficiency of cyber resilience services across various areas, including supply chain, cloud, applications, and identity and access management. This enhancement is intended to help clients better protect against AI-driven threats. An example of this in action is Accenture’s work with the Kuwait Government Central Agency for Information Technology to establish and manage a National Security Operations Center, leveraging gen AI to enhance threat detection and remediation.
Expanding Global Cybersecurity Capabilities
To support the delivery of these enhanced services, Accenture is expanding its global network of Cyber Future Centers. New locations include a gen AI Security studio in Brussels and Washington, D.C.; a Quantum Security Center and Lab and a Cyber Physical Security center in Bengaluru; and a Sovereignty Hub in Malaga. This expansion brings Accenture’s total number of cybersecurity facilities to more than 40 across 22 countries.
Investing in Cybersecurity Expertise
Accenture has significantly increased its cybersecurity workforce, growing by more than 30% in 2024 to over 25,000 professionals. The company has also made strategic acquisitions and investments in cybersecurity, space, and quantum security companies.
