分类: technology

  • THE CHOSEN: Twenty for the 2026 calypso semifinals

    THE CHOSEN: Twenty for the 2026 calypso semifinals

    SenseTime, a leading Chinese artificial intelligence enterprise, has officially launched its groundbreaking multimodal large language model, the ‘Book of Time’ (Ri Yue Da Zao), marking a significant leap in the global AI race. This sophisticated AI system demonstrates exceptional capabilities in processing and generating content across text, images, and potentially other data formats, positioning itself as a formidable competitor to established Western models like OpenAI’s GPT-4.

    The development represents a crucial milestone in China’s pursuit of technological sovereignty and innovation in generative AI. SenseTime’s breakthrough centers on the model’s advanced architecture, which enables more seamless understanding and creation of complex, multi-format content. This technological advancement potentially bridges communication gaps between different media types, offering more intuitive and comprehensive AI interactions.

    Industry analysts highlight the strategic importance of this development amid growing global competition in AI supremacy. The ‘Book of Time’ not only showcases China’s rapidly advancing capabilities in artificial intelligence but also signals intensified competition in the commercial AI sector. This launch may trigger accelerated innovation and potentially reshape market dynamics as technology companies worldwide strive to achieve superior multimodal integration.

    The introduction of this model coincides with increasing focus on AI governance and ethical considerations globally. SenseTime’s advancement contributes to the diversification of AI development pathways, potentially offering alternative approaches to responsible AI implementation while addressing unique linguistic and cultural contexts specific to Eastern markets.

  • Flow launches voice over Wi-Fi calling to customers nationwide

    Flow launches voice over Wi-Fi calling to customers nationwide

    KINGSTON, Jamaica—Flow Jamaica has significantly expanded its telecommunications offerings by enabling Voice over Wi-Fi (VoWiFi) capabilities for a majority of its mobile subscribers. This innovative feature allows customers to place and receive calls utilizing any secure Wi-Fi network without incurring additional charges.

    The service, initially deployed in December, represents a strategic advancement in Flow’s ongoing commitment to technological innovation and enhanced user connectivity. By leveraging Wi-Fi networks to supplement traditional mobile coverage, the company addresses common connectivity challenges while improving call reliability.

    Danielle Savory, Senior Communications Manager at Flow, emphasized the transformative potential: “VoWiFi provides our customers with superior reliability and expanded connectivity options. As Jamaica continues its digital transformation journey, Flow is dedicated to deploying technologies that empower individuals and facilitate seamless communication.”

    This technology offers particular benefits in areas with limited mobile reception, including structures with dense building materials, remote geographical locations, and underground facilities. The service operates transparently, automatically switching between mobile and Wi-Fi networks to maintain optimal call quality without user intervention.

    Internationally, the service enables subscribers to make and receive calls from global locations using Wi-Fi connections, with all calls billed as standard domestic calls when using Jamaican numbers.

    Activation requires three components: a VoWiFi-compatible device, an active Flow LTE SIM card, and access to a secure Wi-Fi network. Android users can enable the feature through Settings > Network & Internet > Mobile Network > Wi-Fi Calling, while iPhone users navigate to Settings > Phone > Wi-Fi Calling. Successful activation is indicated by a VoWiFi or Wi-Fi Call icon in the device’s status bar.

  • LIVE Pay-per-view: Dominica Calypso Quarterfinals 2026

    LIVE Pay-per-view: Dominica Calypso Quarterfinals 2026

    A recent interface modification on the social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, has ignited significant user frustration and public criticism. The alteration involves the platform’s sharing functionality, where the previously standard ‘Share to Twitter’ prompt has been systematically replaced with a new ‘Share to X’ label across numerous third-party websites and applications.

    This rebranding effort, part of Elon Musk’s comprehensive overhaul of the Twitter identity following its acquisition, has resulted in considerable user interface confusion. Many users report encountering the unfamiliar ‘Share to X’ button on external sites, creating a moment of hesitation and disrupting established digital habits. The change appears to be inconsistently implemented across the web, with some platforms displaying the updated terminology while others retain the original Twitter branding, further compounding the disorientation.

    The backlash has been prominently displayed on the platform itself, with the term ‘Share to X’ trending as users voice their complaints. Common criticisms include the non-intuitive nature of the new name for those unfamiliar with the rebrand, the breaking of muscle memory for longtime Twitter users, and concerns about the erosion of one of social media’s most recognized brand identifiers. Technology analysts suggest that while corporate rebranding is common, successful transitions typically maintain elements of familiarity to avoid alienating existing user bases, a principle seemingly overlooked in this rapid transformation.

  • Guyana using Artificial Intelligence to read X-rays

    Guyana using Artificial Intelligence to read X-rays

    In a groundbreaking advancement for Caribbean healthcare technology, Guyana’s Ministry of Health has officially launched an Artificial Intelligence system capable of interpreting medical images with unprecedented accuracy. Health Minister Dr. Frank Anthony, a medical doctor himself, announced the pilot program during the inauguration of the Electronic Health Records System (EHRS) at Festival City polyclinic in South Ruimveldt, Georgetown.

    The revolutionary AI imaging system, currently operational at Enmore Regional Hospital on East Coast Demerara, processes digital X-rays in approximately 17 seconds with a remarkable 99% accuracy rate. Minister Anthony revealed that the technology demonstrates near-perfect precision in reading various medical images, positioning Guyana at the forefront of medical innovation in the region.

    Beyond X-ray interpretation, the AI platform possesses capability to analyze Magnetic Resonance Images (MRI) and Computed Tomography (CT) scans, with full implementation awaiting increased availability of these imaging modalities within the public health system.

    The AI initiative complements the newly launched EHRS, which represents a comprehensive digital transformation of Guyana’s healthcare infrastructure. This integrated system enables online appointment booking, digital recording of diagnostic tests, electronic prescription management, and centralized access to patient medical histories across all public health facilities. The government further plans to incorporate records from private healthcare institutions into this unified network.

    Minister Anthony emphasized the strategic importance of this technological direction: “This is absolutely necessary if we are going to deliver world-class health care to people.” The dual implementation of AI diagnostics and electronic health records signals Guyana’s commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology to enhance medical accessibility and quality throughout the nation.

  • Listen to 2026 Calypso on DNO

    Listen to 2026 Calypso on DNO

    The technology sector is witnessing a revolutionary leap forward as leading industry players have officially launched their next-generation artificial intelligence assistant. This groundbreaking innovation represents a significant advancement in AI interaction, moving beyond traditional text-based interfaces to embrace comprehensive multimodal functionality.

    The newly unveiled system demonstrates unprecedented capabilities in processing and synthesizing information across various formats. It seamlessly integrates visual data interpretation with advanced linguistic understanding, enabling users to interact through images, text, and voice commands simultaneously. This holistic approach to AI communication effectively bridges the gap between digital information processing and real-world application.

    Industry analysts highlight the transformative potential of this technology across multiple sectors. From enhanced educational tools that can interpret and explain complex diagrams to sophisticated medical diagnostics systems capable of analyzing medical imagery, the applications appear virtually limitless. The technology also promises to revolutionize customer service interfaces, providing more intuitive and effective problem-solving capabilities.

    Development teams emphasized the extensive ethical considerations implemented throughout the design process, including robust privacy protections and bias mitigation frameworks. The rollout follows months of rigorous testing and refinement to ensure reliability and user safety. This launch positions the technology at the forefront of the competitive AI landscape, potentially setting new industry standards for intelligent assistant systems.

    Early demonstrations showcase the assistant’s ability to contextualize visual information within complex scenarios, offering insights and responses that demonstrate a deeper understanding of content than previous generations of AI technology. The system’s launch marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of human-machine interaction, potentially redefining how consumers and professionals alike engage with artificial intelligence in their daily operations.

  • Technology : Construction of a major solar power plant in Jacmel

    Technology : Construction of a major solar power plant in Jacmel

    In a landmark move for Haiti’s renewable energy transition, the Ministry of Public Works, Transport and Communications (MTPTC) has formally initiated construction of a major solar power facility in Jacmel through a signed agreement with international firm ESD Engineering Services S.R.L. The January 15, 2026 signing ceremony witnessed Minister Raphaël Hosty and ESD CEO Sang Min Choi formalizing the partnership, with key energy sector officials including leadership from Électricité d’Haïti (EDH) in attendance.

    Funded by a US$7 million World Bank allocation through the Scaling Up Renewable Energy (SREP) program, the comprehensive project represents a technological leap forward for Haiti’s energy infrastructure. The Mont-Fleuri located facility will feature a 4 MW photovoltaic solar array with minimum guaranteed output of 3.35 MW, complemented by a sophisticated 6 MWh lithium-ion battery energy storage system (BESS). The initiative further includes substantial grid enhancements comprising approximately 4 kilometers of low-voltage and 7 kilometers of medium-voltage (23 kV) transmission lines.

    The installation’s advanced grid-forming technology ensures continuous electrical stability regardless of sunlight availability or potential shutdowns of existing thermal generation facilities. Managed under close supervision by the MTPTC’s Energy Unit, this project serves as a demonstration model intended to validate renewable energy viability throughout Haiti with potential for nationwide replication.

    This partnership marks a strategic government effort to diminish fossil fuel dependency while promising enhanced electricity reliability for Jacmel residents. The project symbolizes Haiti’s commitment to sustainable economic development through innovative energy solutions.

  • Gov’t moving to prepare country for AI intergration

    Gov’t moving to prepare country for AI intergration

    The Government of Trinidad and Tobago, through its Ministry of Public Administration and Artificial Intelligence, has embarked on a comprehensive national initiative to establish responsible artificial intelligence governance. In collaboration with UNESCO and the UNDP, the nation is systematically evaluating its preparedness for AI integration across critical sectors.

    This strategic partnership commenced with the November 26 launch of the UNDP’s AI Landscape Assessment (AILA), which provides a practical framework for identifying opportunities and challenges in AI adoption. The current phase involves implementing UNESCO’s Readiness Assessment Methodology (RAM), initiated through a multi-stakeholder survey distributed to leaders across public and private sectors, academia, civil society, and youth organizations.

    The assessment examines five crucial dimensions: legal and regulatory frameworks; technological infrastructure; societal and cultural implications; scientific and educational capabilities; and economic impacts. Data collected will directly inform national AI policy development, ensuring future strategies prioritize ethical considerations, human rights, inclusion, and transparency.

    From January 19-23, sector-based consultation sessions will allow stakeholders to validate preliminary findings and propose sector-specific actions. The process will culminate in a national Validation Workshop on February 27 at The University of the West Indies, St. Augustine, convening government officials, researchers, industry experts, and key stakeholders to examine results and establish clear implementation roadmaps.

    Minister Dominic Smith’s ministry emphasized that these coordinated efforts demonstrate Trinidad and Tobago’s commitment to harnessing AI innovation while safeguarding citizens’ rights and privacy, ultimately aiming to deliver sustainable benefits for national development.

  • Chinese app ‘Are You Dead?’ verandert naam na grote populariteit

    Chinese app ‘Are You Dead?’ verandert naam na grote populariteit

    A groundbreaking safety application originally known as ‘Are You Dead?’ in China has achieved remarkable viral success and is now poised for international expansion under the new brand name ‘Demumu’. The app, specifically designed for individuals leading solitary lifestyles, has recently topped the charts of paid applications on Apple’s App Store following its surge in popularity.

    The application functions as a lightweight safety tool that requires users to designate one emergency contact. It then automatically sends notifications if the user fails to check in through the app for several consecutive days. This innovative approach to personal safety has resonated deeply with China’s growing population of single-person households, which according to state-run Global Times estimates reaches approximately 200 million people, representing over 30% of the population.

    The development team behind Demumu announced on their official Weibo platform that the international rebranding decision came after comprehensive deliberations. The Chinese version, called ‘Sileme’ (translating to ‘Are You Dead?’), will now transition to the global brand identity ‘Demumu’ in upcoming versions.

    To address rising operational costs, the company implemented a subscription model priced at 8 yuan (approximately $1.15) on Sunday. The App Store currently offers the application for 8 Hong Kong dollars (around $1.03). User responses have been overwhelmingly positive, with one commenter noting: ‘While some conservative individuals might struggle to accept this concept, it provides unmarried people like myself with genuine peace of mind about our chosen lifestyle.’

    The app’s sudden popularity and successful monetization strategy demonstrate the growing market for digital solutions catering to modern living arrangements and personal safety concerns in increasingly individualized societies.

  • 2025 Audi A5: Audi 2.0

    2025 Audi A5: Audi 2.0

    Audi has executed a strategic overhaul of its naming conventions, effectively retiring the iconic A4 sedan badge after three decades. The 2025 model year introduces a fundamental shift: the vehicle historically known as the A4 will now be marketed as the A5, while the former A5 coupé is discontinued. This nomenclature revolution aligns with Audi’s electric future, reserving even numbers for its forthcoming EV lineup and assigning odd numbers to internal combustion engine (ICE) models.

    The redesigned A5 (previously A4) makes a dramatic visual statement with a deeply sculpted honeycomb grille, flanked by sophisticated thin-line LED headlights featuring adaptive nighttime behavior and customizable lighting signatures. The rear integrates second-generation OLED technology into a continuous light strip, enhancing its muscular and dynamic profile. While not explicitly labeled a ‘Sportback,’ the sedan’s sweeping roofline arc past the B-pillar creates a distinctly sporty, low-slung silhouette.

    Inside, the cabin represents a technological leap built on Audi’s E3 electronic architecture. The centerpiece is the Audi Panoramic Display, comprising an 11.9-inch virtual cockpit, a 14.5-inch central infotainment touchscreen, and an optional 10.9-inch front passenger display. The latest MMI interface delivers razor-sharp responsiveness with intuitive touch and voice control, capable of identifying the speaker for contextual response. Premium touches abound, including capacitive touch buttons, ambient lighting with functional warnings, and an innovative polymer-dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC) panoramic sunroof that transitions from transparent to opaque instantly.

    Performance remains a cornerstone, powered by a responsive 2.0-liter turbocharged engine paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. Despite being front-wheel drive in base configuration, the A5 delivers sharp handling with direct turn-in and Audi’s signature suspension tuning that balances comfort over imperfections with sporty tautness in corners. Advanced driver assistance systems, including cruise control that functions down to zero mph, alleviate stop-and-go traffic stress.

    This comprehensive redesign demonstrates Audi’s continued commitment to the premium compact executive sedan segment despite market shifts toward SUVs. By incorporating design and technology elements from both its SUV and electric portfolios, the new A5 successfully bridges traditional craftsmanship and forward-looking innovation.

  • OpenAI introducing ads to ChatGPT

    OpenAI introducing ads to ChatGPT

    SAN FRANCISCO (AFP) — OpenAI revealed plans Friday to initiate advertising trials within its ChatGPT platform, marking a strategic shift toward monetizing its massively popular artificial intelligence service. The Microsoft-backed company confirmed the upcoming ad integration through an official blog post, indicating initial testing would commence in the United States for non-paying users and lower-tier subscribers.

    The decision represents a pivotal moment for generative AI economics, where astronomical operational costs have compelled even industry leaders to explore alternative revenue streams. With nearly one billion users but only a small fraction opting for premium subscriptions, OpenAI faces immense pressure to finance the enormous computational expenses required to maintain its services.

    This advertising model aligns OpenAI closer to technology titans Google and Meta, both of which have constructed financial empires through advertising-supported free services. Industry analyst Jeremy Goldman of Emarketer observed: ‘Ads aren’t a distraction from the generative AI race; they’re how OpenAI stays competitive. This move signals the competition has evolved beyond model quality to sustainable monetization strategies.’

    OpenAI’s valuation has skyrocketed to approximately $500 billion since ChatGPT’s 2022 debut, surpassing most private companies and generating speculation about a potential trillion-dollar public offering. However, the company’s cash consumption remains extraordinary due to the intensive computing power necessary for AI response generation.

    The advertising introduction coincides with intensified competition from Google, which has been embedding AI capabilities across its ecosystem including Gmail, Maps, and YouTube alongside its Gemini chatbot.

    Addressing potential concerns, OpenAI emphatically stated that advertisements would never influence ChatGPT’s responses and user conversations would remain private. The company committed to clear advertising labeling and rejected engagement-optimization practices common on social media platforms. ‘We prioritize user trust and experience over revenue,’ OpenAI affirmed, directly contrasting with platforms accused of maximizing screen time for advertising benefits.

    This user protection commitment carries particular significance given previous criticisms regarding ChatGPT’s emotional engagement prioritization and alleged mental health impacts on certain users.