Category Archives: News

News

Sunway, Huawei & ChargeSini Join Forces to Boost Malaysia’s EV Charging Network

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Sunway Group, Huawei Technologies Malaysia, and ChargeHere EV Solution (ChargeSini) have signed a significant agreement to expand electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure across Malaysia. This collaboration aims to address range anxiety, a major concern for EV owners, and accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles in the country.

2 Sunway Huawei and ChargeSini Officiate their Partnership
(Source: Sunway Group) Sunway Huawei and ChargeSini Officiate their Partnership

Under the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed at the recent Malaysia Autoshow 2024, ChargeSini, a leading EV charging solutions provider, will take the lead in procuring, installing, and managing charging stations at strategic locations within Sunway’s extensive network of townships and developments. Huawei Malaysia will leverage its technological expertise to support the development process and provide after-sales service.

This partnership aligns with Malaysia’s national target of establishing 10,000 EV charging stations by 2025, as outlined in the Low Carbon Mobility Blueprint (LCMB) 2021-2030.

“We are proud to partner with Huawei Malaysia and ChargeSini to make EV charging stations more accessible nationwide,” said Yeoh Yuen Chee, CEO of Sunway Trading and Manufacturing. He emphasized the importance of collaboration between public and private sectors to achieve the national target and support Sunway’s commitment to sustainability and net-zero emissions by 2050.

1 Sunway Huawei and Chargesini during the MoU Signing

Chong Chern Peng, Vice President of Huawei Malaysia’s Digital Power Business Department, highlighted the evolving Malaysian automotive industry and its growing role in the EV ecosystem. He expressed confidence that the partnership will strengthen Malaysia’s position in the EV landscape by accelerating adoption through innovative charging solutions. Huawei Malaysia remains committed to developing sustainable solutions for a greener future.

ChargeSini CEO James Goh echoed the commitment to sustainability. “This groundbreaking collaboration is a testament to our shared vision,” he said. “By leveraging Huawei’s technology and Sunway’s infrastructure, ChargeSini will create an efficient EV charging network that benefits communities throughout Malaysia.” This initiative aligns with ChargeSini’s mission to promote sustainable urban development and reduce carbon emissions, ultimately contributing to Malaysia’s 2050 Net-Zero Mission.

The collaboration between Sunway, Huawei, and ChargeSini is a positive step towards a more sustainable future for Malaysia. By expanding the EV charging network and addressing range anxiety, this partnership has the potential to significantly accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles in the country.

Consumer Electronics, News

Sharp Brings Latest Plasmacluster Ion Products to Malaysia

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Sharp is no stranger to home and living products. The company boasts a long history of manufacturing and innovating in the home and living technology segment. What’s more, its Plasmacluster Ion (PCI) technology alone has been headlining its products for about 24 years now after being introduced at the turn of the millennium.

Improved Plasmacluster Ion Technology

The Plasmacluster ion technology brings along with it a whole suite of benefits that make it one of the industry-leading technologies when it comes to purification and preservation. This year, Sharp is upping the ante by introducing improvements to the technology that makes it even more compelling than before. Plasmacluster Ion products are now getting labelled with three different PCI labels: High Density 7000 (Copper), High Density 25000 (Silver), and NEXT 50000 (White). Each label indicates the speed at which PCI is able to neutralise airborne pathogens and purify the air. The new NEXT certification comes with the guarantee of being able to clear the air in a mere 9 minutes.

Sharp PCI Launch 5

Plasmacluster Ion technology works by injecting charged hydrogen and oxygen ions derived from hydrolysed water molecules into the surrounding space. These charged ions will then react with the protective layers of bacteria, moulds and viruses exposing vital structures and neutralising them. In application, this helps reduce the density of harmful microbes which help preserve food and manage allergens. Sharp shares that its PCI technology is able to reduce the density of the Alpha variant of COVID-19 by up to 95% and help manage allergies by reducing the density of allergens.

New Generation PureFit Air Purifiers

Sharp’s new generation of PureFit Air Purifiers is leading the charge when it comes to the new generation of Plasmacluster Ion products. The new air purifiers are designed with simplicity in mind. The minimalist, functional design has also earned Sharp the much coveted iF Design award in 2021.

Sharp PCI Launch 4

The lineup consisting of two variants, the Sharp PureFit and PureFit Mini, are built specifically to cater to different-sized rooms. The PureFit can effectively purify rooms of up to 84m2 or 900 sqft while the Mini can do the same in rooms of up to 30m2 or 330sqft.

Sharp PCI Launch

The PureFit series is able to provide effective purification thanks to its dual airflow system with three layers of filtration. It also comes with HEPA filtration to eliminate up to 99.8% of impurities and microbes as small as 0.02 microns. The PureFit series spearheads Sharp’s extensive air-purifer lineup which also includes a version with a mosquito catcher to help keep mosquitoes and dengue at bay.

New Generation Plasmacluter Ion Appliances

Together with the new generation air purifiers, Sharp is also incorporating its latest Plasmacluster ion technology into other product categories. This includes its washer-dryers and refridgerators. The new Sharp Pro-Flex washer-dryer comes with a dry airwash mode which injects Plasmacutter Ions to sanitise and clean garments without water. It also incorporates the PCI technology when washing and drying for a cleaner wash.

Sharp PCI Launch 3

Sharp is also incorporating it into its refridgerators to help keep food fresher for longer. Sharp claims that PCI technology helps destroy mould, bacteria and other harmful microbes that cause food decay. This combined with the AG Nano deodouriser keeps food fresh and the refridgerator smelling clean for longer.

Pricing & Availability

Sharp’s extensive list of appliances will be available in the market in the coming weeks. Prices start at RM699. Appliances listed below:

ItemModel No.RRP (RM)
84m2 PureFit Air Purifer FXS120LH4,699
30m2 Mini PureFit Air Purifer FSP40/421,699
30m2 Plasmacluster Technology Air Purifer with Mosquito CatcherFPJM40LB1,500
10m2 Baby Sharp Air Purifer FUNC01W829
62m2 AIoT Plasmacluster Technology Air Purifer FPJ80LH3,719
38m2 Plasmacluster Technology Humidifying Air Purifer KJIN50LH3,099
3.6m2 Plasmacluster Technology Generator IGNX2EB699
Personal Space Ion Generator IGNM1W699
Pro-Flex Front Load Washer-Dryer (10.5kg/7kg)ESDK1054PMS4,599
410L 2 Door RefridgeratorSJ4122MSS2,269
Gaming, News

Sony Interactive Entertainment Takes on the Hero Shooter Genre with Concord

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Firewalk Studios has unveiled Concord, a character-driven multiplayer shooter set in the vibrant Concord galaxy. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect from this exciting new title:

Inspired by classic sci-fi films, anime, and TV series, Concord promises an immersive experience brimming with adventure. Firewalk Studios aims to create those unforgettable moments of shared triumph and last-minute heroics with friends, while also fostering a sense of discovery as players delve deeper into the game’s lore and diverse cast of characters.

Concord - Reveal Cinematic Trailer | PS5 Games

In Concord, you step into the boots of the Northstar crew, a group of skilled mercenaries known as Freegunners. These guns-for-hire traverse the Wild Space region, taking on challenging contracts across various planets. Each match offers the opportunity to assemble your Freegunner team and compete against rival crews in a variety of game modes and maps.

Firewalk Studios emphasizes a balanced gameplay experience that feels rewarding from the start. While the core gunplay will be familiar to FPS veterans, the unique abilities and diverse roster of Freegunners encourage strategic teamwork and creative problem-solving.

Concord - Gameplay Trailer | PS5 Games

Concord boasts a roster of 16 distinct Freegunners at launch, each with their own personality and gameplay style. From mystics wielding fire to towering robots and skilled sharpshooters, these characters offer something for everyone. Their abilities range from tactical tools like explosive knives and defensive domes to more strategic options like deployable walls and persistent effects that influence the entire battlefield. This variety fosters an asymmetric gameplay experience where every match feels fresh and unpredictable.

The world of Concord is rich with stories to be told. In addition to the thrilling competitive gameplay, players will have the chance to follow the narrative arc of the Northstar crew through cinematic vignettes premiering within the game on a weekly basis. These vignettes will delve into the characters’ relationships, explore life as a Freegunner, and gradually reveal the mysteries of the Concord galaxy.

Firewalk Studios is committed to expanding the Concord universe. The base game launches with 16 Freegunners, and the developer plans to introduce new playable characters, maps, modes, and cinematic content through regular post-launch updates.

Get Ready to Join the Fight!

The wait won’t be long! Firewalk Studios will be revealing details about pre-orders and PS5 and PC editions of Concord next week. Pre-ordering will grant you and four friends early access to the upcoming beta test this summer. Gear up, assemble your crew, and prepare to embark on a thrilling adventure in the Concord galaxy when the game launches globally on August 24, 2024.

Business, News

AWS Announces New Thailand Region

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Amazon Web Services (AWS) recently announced a significant investment in Thailand’s digital future. The company plans to launch a new AWS Asia Pacific (Bangkok) Region by early 2025, accompanied by a US$5 billion investment in the country by 2037. This move signifies a major commitment to supporting Thailand’s “Ignite Thailand” ambition and its cloud-first approach to economic growth.

Expanding Infrastructure and Empowering Innovation

The new AWS Region will join existing infrastructure like CloudFront edge locations, Outposts, and Local Zones. This expanded presence offers several benefits. Customers with data residency preferences can store their data securely within Thailand’s borders. The new Region also promises reduced latency, improving application performance and user experience for cloud-based services across the country. Furthermore, it enhances the overall availability of cloud services, catering to the growing demand for these technologies across Southeast Asia.

Thailand AWS Region
Image Generated with Microsoft Co-pilot

This infrastructure boost aligns perfectly with Thailand’s “Ignite Thailand” plan, which aims to establish the nation as a regional leader in digital innovation. The new Region will empower startups, businesses, and government organizations to leverage cutting-edge technologies like generative AI, machine learning, and the Internet of Things (IoT).

Positive Impact on Businesses and the Economy

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin welcomed the investment, highlighting its role in propelling Thailand’s digital transformation journey. He emphasized how this move strengthens national infrastructure, fosters business growth, and aligns with the Cloud First initiative. The AWS Region is expected to create economic opportunities by fostering innovation and attracting investments, generating new business opportunities across various sectors. Additionally, training programs offered by AWS will equip Thailand’s workforce with the necessary digital skills to thrive in the digital age. This increased accessibility of cloud technologies is expected to stimulate innovation across various industries.

Several prominent Thai organizations have already embraced AWS cloud services to drive their digital transformation journeys. Financial institutions like the Bank of Ayudhya leverage AWS for data analytics and AI to enhance customer experience and operational efficiency. Energy companies like PTG Energy utilize AWS for their core applications, with plans to migrate their point-of-sale system for improved performance. Manufacturing giants like PTT Global Chemical leverage AWS to develop a data platform and implement ML operations, enhancing production efficiency. Media organizations like Bangkok Biz News utilize AWS to personalize content and drive media team efficiency. Startups like Botnoi Voice leverage AWS for its text-to-speech AI bot, creating high-quality Thai language voice synthesis.

Despite the growing adoption of AI, Thailand faces a looming skills gap. AWS is committed to bridging this gap through several initiatives. Since 2017, AWS has trained over 50,000 individuals in cloud skills, with a target of reaching 100,000 by 2026. Educational partnerships with Thai universities like Chulalongkorn University equip students with industry-recognized cloud certifications, preparing them for the digital workforce. Additionally, the “AI Ready” initiative offers free training courses on AI and generative AI for individuals with varying technical backgrounds.

Looking Forward: A Brighter Digital Future

The launch of the AWS Thailand Region, coupled with AWS’s commitment to skills development, marks a significant step forward for Thailand’s digital transformation journey. Businesses and organizations across industries will benefit from enhanced cloud infrastructure and access to advanced technologies. By fostering a skilled workforce, Thailand is well-positioned to solidify its place as a leader in Southeast Asia’s digital future.

News

Anker Innovations Announces Three New Soundcore Earbuds and 6.6 Deals

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Soundcore, the audio brand under Anker Innovations, recently launched three new earbuds – the K20i, R50i NC, and C30i – catering to diverse listener preferences. To celebrate the launch, Anker is offering discounts across its stores during the upcoming 6.6 sale.

K20i: Effortless Convenience

Easy Access, Storage

The K20i earbuds prioritize convenience with a flip-open case that features a large opening and magnets for easy removal and storage. They offer extended playtime – 36 hours with the charging case and 6 hours on a single charge – perfect for long commutes or listening sessions. An IPX5 water-resistant rating makes them suitable for workouts. Available in black, the K20i is priced at RM 89.

R50i NC: Immersive Audio with Noise Cancellation

  • Blue
  • White
  • Design

For those seeking an isolated listening experience, the R50i NC boasts adaptive active noise cancellation (ANC) with a 42dB Noise Reduction Depth. Four microphones with a custom AI algorithm enhance call clarity. Transparency mode allows for situational awareness when needed. The R50i NC delivers rich sound and deep bass in an ergonomic design. These earbuds also feature a 2-in-1 charging case that doubles as a phone stand and offers a total battery life of 45 hours. Available in black, white, pink, and blue, the R50i NC is priced at RM 239.

C30i: Open-Ear Comfort

The C30i represents the next generation of Soundcore’s open-ear earbuds. Weighing only 5.7g, these lightweight earbuds clip onto the user’s ear cartilage for a secure and comfortable fit. The firm-shell design and attachable ear grips with a large contact area provide stability during wear. Available in black, the C30i is priced at RM 329.

Black

All three earbuds will be available for a promotional price from June 6th to 8th exclusively on Anker’s online stores.

6.6 Deals

Together with the new earbuds, Anker Innovations also announced its hot deals for the upcoming 6.6 sale on Lazada and Shopee. There are discounts of up to 30% during the sale period from 6 June to 8 June. Here’s the list of discounts.

6.6 Anker Deals
6.6 Sale KV
6.6 Anker Bundle Sales & iPhone 15 Series Deals
6.6 Soundcore Deals
6.6 eufy Deals
Product NameRRP (MYR)6.6 Deals (MYR)Platform
Soundcore Liberty 4 NC449359.90      Anker MY Official Shopee Store  
Soundcore A20i9979
Soundcore Space One459389
Soundcore Q30399319.90
Soundcore Mini B2C169139.90
Soundcore IPX5 B2C229179.90
Anker Powercore Select 10,000 mAh13999
Anker Powercore Select 20,000 mAh229149
Anker 321 MagGo Battery (PowerCore 5K)239189.90
Anker MagGo Power Bank 10,000 mAh299239.90
Anker Power Bank 20,000mAh349279.90
MACH V1 Ultra All-In-One Cordless StickVac with Steam Mop3,9992,799
Anker MagGo Power Bank 10,000mAh299Bundle Deal:
249
Anker 322 USB-C to USB-C Cable23
Anker PowerPort III 20W Cube59
Anker Nano II 65W199159
Anker 735 Charger GaNPrime 65W269209
Anker Powerport Atom III 65W Slim229169
Anker PowerWave Magnetic Pad Lite9969
Anker iPhone 15 Clear Magnetic Phone Case4525
Anker iPhone 15 Plus Clear Magnetic Phone Case4525
Anker iPhone 15 Pro Clear Magnetic Phone Case4525
Anker iPhone 15 Pro Max Clear Magnetic Phone Case4525
Anker iPhone 15 Screen Protector2916
Anker iPhone 15 Pro Screen Protector2916
Anker iPhone 15 Plus Screen Protector2916
Anker iPhone 15 Pro Max Screen Protector2916
NEW – Soundcore Aerofit Pro799/
NEW – Soundcore Aerofit499/
NEW – Soundcore V30i299/
eufy Indoor Cam C210239199eufy Official Store on Lazada
eufy Official Store Shopee 
Business, News

Google’s US$2 Billion Investment: A Catalyst for Malaysia’s Digital Transformation

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Google’s recent announcement of a US$2 billion investment in Malaysia signifies a major milestone in the country’s digital transformation journey. This strategic investment not only positions Malaysia as a regional hub for cloud computing but also empowers its industries and workforce to embrace the transformative power of artificial intelligence (AI).

A Google Cloud Data Centre in Kuala Lumpur

The centrepiece of Google’s investment is the construction of its first data centre and Google Cloud region in Malaysia. Strategically located in Sime Darby Property’s Elmina Business Park in the Greater Kuala Lumpur region, this data centre will serve as the backbone for Google’s popular digital services like Search, Maps, and Workspace. These services are the lifeblood of countless individuals and organizations worldwide, including those in Malaysia.

Image 1 Artist impression of Google first data center and Google Cloud region in Malaysia
(Source: Google) Artist impression of Google’s first data centre and Google Cloud region in Malaysia

The impact of Google’s investment extends far beyond powering existing services. The new cloud region will provide high-performance and low-latency cloud services to businesses of all sizes, from established enterprises to budding startups. This will be particularly beneficial for public sector organizations seeking to leverage the efficiency and scalability of cloud computing.

For businesses concerned about data security and residency, Google Cloud offers robust features that meet the highest compliance standards. This empowers organizations to retain complete control over their data storage, ensuring adherence to specific data residency requirements. Furthermore, Google’s existing Dedicated Cloud Interconnect locations in Cyberjaya and Kuala Lumpur will provide even greater connectivity and security by enabling direct connections between an organization’s on-premises network and Google Cloud’s global network.

With the addition of the Malaysian cloud region, Google joins the ranks of leading cloud providers with a presence in 40 regions and 121 zones worldwide. This strategic placement in Southeast Asia strengthens Google’s position to cater to the growing demand for cloud services in the region. Malaysia’s central location makes it an ideal hub for businesses across Southeast Asia to leverage the power of Google Cloud.

Image 3 Actual Site for Google first data center and Google Cloud region in Elmina Business Park Malaysia
(Source: Google) Actual Site for Google’s first data center and Google Cloud region in Elmina Business Park Malaysia

Investments in Training and Upskilling

Recognizing the transformative potential of AI, Google is actively investing in programs to equip Malaysia’s workforce with the necessary skills. Two key initiatives are the Gemini Academy and the Experience AI program.

Gemini Academy: Empowering Educators with AI Tools

The Gemini Academy equips educators with the knowledge and tools to safely and effectively utilize generative AI tools like Gemini. This empowers teachers to boost productivity and explore innovative ways to enhance student learning experiences. Since its pilot phase in November 2023, the program has benefited over 600 educators in Malaysia. In collaboration with the Ministry of Education, Google aims to expand the program’s reach to 15,000 educators by the end of 2024.

Experience AI: Igniting Young Minds

Launched by Google DeepMind, the Raspberry Pi Foundation, and the Penang Science Cluster, the Experience AI program focuses on empowering educators with the skills and knowledge to deliver engaging AI lessons to students aged 11 to 14. Through interactive materials and tutorials, this program equips educators to confidently introduce students to the world of AI. The initial goal is to train 1,000 educators, ultimately reaching 10,000 students across Malaysia.

Jobs, Growth, and a Thriving Tech Ecosystem

Google’s investment is projected to create significant economic benefits for Malaysia. An evaluation by AlphaBeta (part of Access Partnership) commissioned by Google estimates the investment to contribute over US$3.2 billion to Malaysia’s GDP by 2030. This growth is further amplified by the creation of an estimated 26,500 jobs across various sectors. By fostering a vibrant technology ecosystem, Google’s investment aligns perfectly with Malaysia’s aspirations as outlined in the MADANI Economy Framework and the New Industrial Master Plan 2030 (NIMP 2030).

Image 2 Actual Site for Google first data center and Google Cloud region in Elmina Business Park Malaysia
(Source: Google) Actual Site for Google’s first data center and Google Cloud region in Elmina Business Park Malaysia

Google’s US$2 billion investment represents a significant commitment to Malaysia’s digital transformation journey. The construction of a data centre and cloud region, coupled with initiatives to promote AI literacy, positions Malaysia as a leader in the region’s digital future. This investment not only empowers businesses and individuals but also paves the way for a more innovative and technologically advanced Malaysia.

Gaming, News, Social Media

YouTube Playables Expands, Bringing Casual Games Directly to the Platform in Select Regions

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YouTube has been steadily expanding its offerings beyond video content, and its latest move caters to casual gamers. The platform recently announced the rollout of “Playables,” a feature that allows users to play a selection of lightweight games directly within the YouTube app or on their desktop browser.

YT Playables Nitrate Image Ass.max 700x3000.format webp

Playables offers a convenient and accessible gaming experience. There’s no need to download additional apps or create new accounts. Users can simply browse the Playables shelf on the YouTube homepage or explore the new Playables destination page accessible from the Explore menu. Here, they’ll find a library of over 75 games, encompassing various genres like trivia, racing, arcade-style action, and word games.

The game selection leans towards casual titles suitable for short bursts of play. This aligns with YouTube’s core functionality, where users often consume content in bite-sized chunks. Whether waiting for a video to load or taking a break between clips, Playables offers a quick and engaging way to pass the time.

  • youtube playables mobile 1
  • youtube playables mobile 2
  • youtube playables mobile 3

The games within Playables are built using HTML5 technology, ensuring broad compatibility across various devices. Users with Android smartphones and tablets running Android 14 (or higher) can access Playables directly within the YouTube app. Compatibility extends to select Android 10, 11, 12 and 13 devices with high memory or 64-bit processors. For iOS users, Playables is currently available on iPhone and iPad devices running iOS 14 and above within the YouTube app. Desktop users with Chrome, Safari, or Firefox can also access Playables through their web browsers. It’s also worth noting that Playables aren’t widely available at the time of writing. In Malaysia, trying to open the YouTube Playables page leads to a “Page not Available” screen.

image 8

While YouTube hasn’t disclosed specific details on monetization, some reports suggest these games might utilize in-app purchases or advertising. It’s important to note that parental controls are available within the YouTube app, allowing guardians to restrict access to inappropriate content or limit in-app purchases for younger users.

The initial rollout of Playables has garnered mixed reactions. Some users appreciate the convenience and variety of casual games offered, while others find the selection uninspired compared to dedicated mobile gaming platforms. Regardless, Playables represents an interesting new direction for YouTube, potentially attracting new users and keeping existing ones engaged within the platform’s ecosystem for longer.

As the feature progresses, it will be interesting to see if YouTube expands the game library, explores different genres, or integrates deeper social elements within Playables. Only time will tell if Playables evolves into a full-fledged gaming destination or remains a niche offering for casual gamers within the vast YouTube landscape.

Business, News

Grab & OpenAI Join Forces to Supercharge the Superapp Experience in Southeast Asia with AI

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AI is in vogue right now. The latest company to jump on the AI bandwagon? Grab. Yep, that’s right. The same Grab that you use on a daily basis to order food, call a ride and more. Southeast Asia’s leading superapp has announced a groundbreaking collaboration with OpenAI, the company behind ChatGPT. This partnership – a first-of-its-kind for OpenAI in Asia – will see Grab leverage generative AI to enhance the superapp experience across multiple facets from user experience to employee productivity.

The collaboration will focus on two key areas: developing AI-powered solutions for Grab’s user base and partners, and piloting the use of AI within Grab’s workforce.

grab x openai

Building a More Inclusive Experience

One of the most exciting aspects of the partnership is the potential to make Grab’s services more accessible. Grab will utilize OpenAI’s expertise in text and voice technologies to create features that cater to users with visual impairments or elderly individuals who might find navigating the app interface challenging. This could involve implementing voice commands or text-to-speech functionalities, making it easier for everyone to interact with the Grab platform.

Enhanced Customer Support and Faster Mapping Updates

The partnership extends to improving customer support. Grab will explore building AI-powered chatbots capable of better understanding user inquiries and resolving issues more efficiently. This would streamline the customer support process, leading to faster resolution times and a more satisfying user experience.

OpenAI’s vision capabilities will also play a role in enhancing GrabMaps. By leveraging AI to automate tasks and extract data more effectively from visual imagery, Grab can potentially update maps at a faster pace. This ensures users and driver-partners have access to the most up-to-date information, improving navigation and overall efficiency within the Grab ecosystem.

AI Pilot Program for Employees

Beyond user-facing solutions, Grab also plans to pilot the use of OpenAI’s ChatGPT Enterprise among select employees. This initiative complements Grab’s existing efforts to integrate AI tools across its workforce, aiming to boost productivity and explore new ways to utilize this technology for internal processes.

This collaboration between Grab and OpenAI has the potential to significantly transform the way users, partners, and employees interact with the Grab platform. By harnessing the power of AI, Grab can create a more inclusive and user-friendly experience, optimize internal operations, and ultimately solidify its position as a leader in Southeast Asia’s digital landscape.

Health, Lifestyle, News

Zepp Flow Makes Its Debut in Zepp OS 3.5 for the Amazfit Balance

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Zepp Health, the company behind the Amazfit smartwatches and wearables, has announced a significant update to its Zepp OS operating system. This update, Zepp OS 3.5, introduces a groundbreaking feature called Zepp Flow. Zepp Flow integrates a Natural-Language User Interface (LUI) powered by large language model (LLM) artificial intelligence into Zepp OS – an industry first.

The LUI in Zepp Flow allows users to interact with their Amazfit Balance smartwatch more naturally by using their voice. This represents a major leap forward in AI integration, enabling the device to recognize and respond to spoken commands. In the company’s own words at MWC Barcelona 2024, “Zepp Flow fosters a shift from a traditional smartwatch experience to a more intuitive and interactive one, akin to having a conversation with your device. With voice-based interaction, users can enjoy a more personalized experience, managing their health and well-being through AI-powered features.”

Zepp Flow 5

Zepp Flow empowers users to perform various tasks on their Amazfit Balance smartwatch using just their voice. This includes scheduling appointments, replying to notifications, checking the weather, and much more.

The Zepp OS 3.5 update offers more than just voice interaction. Additional features cater to both fitness enthusiasts and health-conscious users.

Offline Map
  • Marathon Training Support: Zepp Coach, the built-in training app, now offers support for half and full-marathon training plans. This update also includes a new Confidence Index and Plan Completion Rate to provide valuable insights into your training progress.
  • HRV Recording: Sleep Heart Rate Variability (HRV) tracks variations in your heartbeat, offering insights into your recovery state, stress levels, and post-exercise recuperation. The watch displays complete records of your previous night’s HRV data, promoting a holistic understanding of your well-being.
  • WhatsApp Integration (Android Only): You can now view WhatsApp image messages directly on your Amazfit Balance smartwatch when received through your Android device.
  • Enhanced Navigation: The update improves map functionality with intuitive road names, making it easier to navigate during runs, hikes, or when exploring new locations.
  • Expanded Sports Modes: The list of available sports modes has been expanded to include bouldering and indoor rock climbing.
  • Running Power Tracking: Gain insights into your running performance with the new Running Power tracking feature.
  • Winter Sports Enhancements: Experience improved functionality for snowboarding and skiing, including trail navigation and resort maps.
HRV

Zepp Health is committed to advancing AI technology in the wearable space. Malaysia can expect to see the launch of the Zepp Aura personal wellness assistant in July 2024.

Health, News

Samsung Galaxy Watch Gets a Boost with the Arrival of Galaxy AI in One UI 6 Watch

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Samsung is bringing its Galaxy AI technology to the Galaxy Watch series, marking a significant step forward in health and wellness features for smartwatch users. This integration, announced on May 28th, 2024, leverages the power of on-device artificial intelligence to provide more comprehensive health insights and personalized motivational coaching.

One UI 6 Watch Galaxy AI Motivational Health main1 jpg 92

Samsung has long been a leader in the wearable technology space, with the Galaxy Watch series consistently pushing the boundaries of what a smartwatch can do. The introduction of Galaxy AI is a renewed commitment to providing users with advanced health and wellness experiences. This technology focuses on utilizing meaningful and actionable insights derived from user data to empower individuals to take control of their health.

The magic behind Galaxy AI lies in its ability to combine powerful on-device AI with the extensive data collected by the Samsung Health app. This comprehensive data set, encompassing sleep patterns, activity levels, and heart rate, allows Galaxy AI to generate a holistic view of a user’s health. By analyzing this data, Galaxy AI can provide users with features like:

One UI 6 Watch Galaxy AI Motivational Health main2 jpg 92
  • Energy Score: This feature offers a summary of a user’s current health condition by analyzing sleep, activity, and heart rate metrics. It provides a clear and user-friendly way to understand one’s overall well-being.
  • Wellness Tips: Galaxy AI takes things a step further by offering personalized wellness tips and motivational nudges. These tips are tailored to a user’s specific health goals and data, making them more relevant and actionable.

Samsung stresses its commitment to user privacy and security with the integration of Galaxy AI. The AI processing occurs entirely on the device itself, ensuring that user data stays private and secure. This focus on user control empowers individuals to feel comfortable utilizing the advanced features offered by Galaxy AI.