Tag Archives: ai

BrainChip’s neuromorphic technology: The next wave of AI @ CES 2024

February 7, 2024AI, CES 2024, Computersai, artificial intelligence, ces2024, gadgets, generative ai, processorPLUGHITZ Live

BrainChip AI neural network accelerators A transformative shift in the way devices are perceived and interacted with is being brought about by AI neural network accelerators. BrainChip Inc. is a leading developer of such an accelerator, a technology that enables AI to be embedded into various devices, thereby facilitating intelligent functions.

AI neural network accelerators: A technological revolution

BrainChip’s neural network accelerator is compared to other AI technologies in the market, such as those developed by NVIDIA. The distinguishing factor for BrainChip is its architecture, which is based on neuromorphic principles, akin to the human brain. This implies that the accelerator is capable of multitasking and processing multiple events simultaneously, much like the human brain. Furthermore, the accelerator is noted for its minimal energy consumption, contributing to its high efficiency.

The end product for consumers is a device that requires less frequent charging, thanks to its neuromorphic architecture. This technology enables devices to perform multiple functions concurrently, similar to the human brain. Take, for example, a smart cabin in a vehicle, where the accelerator can recognize the driver, gestures, and voice. This level of recognition and interaction is made possible by BrainChip’s technology.

AI still has room to grow

However, it is important to note that the adoption of this technology is still underway. The development and refinement of AI technologies require time, as they need to achieve a level of accuracy that can be utilized by consumers on a daily basis. It is the combination of inputting correct data and understanding it that facilitates the development of AI-based applications.

Excitement about the future of AI and the demand for more intelligent devices from consumers is a constant. At CES 2024, AI has been a prevalent theme, with numerous companies and individuals focusing on delivering intelligent solutions. Whether it is through software, hardware, or embedded intelligence, AI is transforming various industries and products.

Rob Telson, the Vice President of Ecosystem and Partnerships at BrainChip Inc., acknowledges that AI has only been around for a relatively short period of time, with significant advancements occurring in the past three years. He specifically mentions GPT, or Generative Pre-trained Transformer, which is a language model that has gained attention for its ability to generate human-like text. Despite these advancements, Linsdell emphasizes that truly intelligent devices that can think at the same level as a human are still three to seven years away.

Of course, the big question in AI whether AI will ever surpass the human brain in intelligence. Linsdell firmly states that AI will not be able to achieve the same level of thinking as the human brain. He acknowledges that AI may be able to think ahead of humans in certain areas, but it still lacks the efficiency, rationality, and logic that the human brain possesses.

However, Linsdell also believes that AI has the potential to bring about significant benefits if used correctly. He mentions the importance of playing the game right and ensuring that AI is used in a way that aligns with human thinking. While AI may make decisions that are not in line with human thinking currently, Linsdell suggests that with further tinkering and advancements, AI may eventually reach a point where it can match human thinking.

Conclusion: BrainChip is on the bleeding edge of AI processing

In conclusion, AI neural network accelerators, such as the one developed by BrainChip Inc., are revolutionizing the capabilities of devices. By embedding AI into devices, they can perform multiple functions simultaneously, akin to the human brain. This technology holds the potential to enhance various industries and create more intelligent and interactive devices for consumers.

Interview by Don Baine, The Gadget Professor.

Sponsored by:
Get $5 to protect your credit card information online with Privacy.
Amazon Prime gives you more than just free shipping. Get free music, TV shows, movies, videogames and more.
The most flexible tools for podcasting. Get a 30 day free trial of storage and statistics.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | RSS | More

Chat3D.ai: Making 3D modeling accessible to everyone @ CES 2024

February 7, 2024AI, CES 2024, Computers, Entertainment3D, 3d modeling, 3d printing, ai, artificial intelligence, ces2024, gadgetsPLUGHITZ Live

Chat3D.ai AI-powered 3D modeling Generative AI, also known as generative adversarial networks (GANs), is a revolutionary technology that has the ability to create 3D models from simple prompts or descriptions. This cutting-edge technology is being utilized by a company called Chat3D.ai, which aims to provide efficient and user-friendly solutions for various industries, including gaming, virtual reality, e-commerce, and engineering.

Generative AI creates 3D models

The concept behind generative AI is to use artificial intelligence algorithms to generate new content based on existing data. In the case of Chat3D, the AI is trained to understand and interpret prompts or descriptions provided by users, and then it generates 3D models accordingly. This eliminates the need for complex and time-consuming manual 3D modeling processes, making it a game-changer for industries that heavily rely on 3D models.

Traditionally, creating 3D models has been a time-consuming and complex process. Designers had to manually create every aspect of the model, which could take up to 60-70% of the time to market when developing a game or other virtual scenes. However, with the introduction of generative AI, this process is being revolutionized.

The development of Chat3D and its implementation of generative AI has been a relatively quick process. The company was founded in France less than a year ago and has already made its debut at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES). This rapid progress is a testament to the dedication and innovative mindset of the team behind Chat3D.

Who is Chat3D intended for?

Chat3D’s target audience primarily consists of clients in the gaming industry who are constantly seeking ways to improve efficiency. By using generative AI, these clients can save hours of work by simply prompting the software and letting the AI create 3D models in a matter of seconds to minutes. This not only saves time but also allows for greater creativity and flexibility in designing virtual environments and characters.

Although Chat3D is currently focused on the gaming industry, its applications are not limited to just gaming. Customers can also use the software for 3D printing purposes. For individuals who own a 3D printer but lack expertise in 3D modeling, Chat3D offers a simple and efficient solution. Users can describe what they want or even upload an image, and the software will generate a 3D model that can be printed.

What sets Chat3D apart is its accessibility. It is not limited to experts or professionals in 3D modeling. Anyone, regardless of their level of expertise, can use Chat3D to express their creativity. Whether it’s a child, a grandparent, or someone with no prior knowledge of 3D modeling, they can easily describe what they want or even upload an image, and the AI will transform it into a 3D model.

Conclusion: Chat3D.ai speeds up development of games and more

The pricing model for Chat3D is designed to be affordable and flexible for customers. Users are given credits based on their consumption, and they can spend these credits according to their needs on the website. This ensures that customers only pay for the services they use, making it a cost-effective solution for individuals and businesses alike.

In conclusion, generative AI has revolutionized the way 3D models are created, and Chat3D is at the forefront of this technological advancement. By utilizing AI algorithms, Chat3D allows users to easily generate 3D models by simply describing what they want or uploading an image. This accessibility and efficiency make Chat3D a valuable tool for various industries, including gaming, virtual reality, e-commerce, and engineering. With its affordable pricing model and user-friendly interface, Chat3D.ai is democratizing the world of 3D modeling and empowering individuals to express their creativity.

Interview by Don Baine, The Gadget Professor.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | RSS | More

RevComm: The self-coaching tool for effective communication @ CES 2024

February 6, 2024AI, Audio, CES 2024, Mobileai, artificial intelligence, ces2024, communications, gadgetsPLUGHITZ Live

RevComm communication coaching For people who spend their lives in one-on-one communications, such as salespeople, analyzing those communications can be a real challenge. Taking notes during a call can make you sound distracted. Trying to remember how the call went will always return false results. Plus, some metrics are nearly impossible to analyze as a person with our limited perception. This is where RevComm comes in.

AI software analyzes and visualizes conversations

RevComm is a revolutionary tool that is transforming the way businesses communicate and interact with their customers. This software utilizes artificial intelligence to analyze voice communication in various forms, including phone conversations, web meetings, and face-to-face interactions.

The primary goal of this software is to provide self-coaching tools for sales representatives to increase their sales conversion rates. By analyzing and visualizing the conversation between sales reps and customers, the software can provide valuable insights and feedback on various aspects of the conversation.

The software is designed to analyze conversations in various settings, including phone conversations, web meetings, and face-to-face interactions. For phone conversations, the software can easily capture audio and analyze it. For web meetings, platforms like Zoom and Teams can be integrated with the software to analyze the conversation. For face-to-face interactions, a special mic device or a mobile device can be used to capture and analyze the conversation.

The features of RevComm

One of the key features of RevComm is sentiment analysis. It can track the emotional transition of both the sales rep and the customer throughout the conversation. This information can be crucial in understanding the effectiveness of the communication and identifying areas for improvement.

Additionally, the software provides metrics such as talk-to-listen ratio, number of silences, interruptions, and conversation back and forth. These metrics can help sales reps gauge their communication style and identify any patterns or areas that need improvement.

The software also analyzes the pacing of the conversation. It recognizes the importance of pacing in sales and emphasizes the correlation between brain speed and speech rate. By analyzing the pacing of the conversation, the software can help sales reps ensure that they are speaking at an optimal speed that allows the customer to understand and engage without getting bored or frustrated.

In terms of content analysis, the software can identify key topics discussed during the conversation, who mentioned them, and when they were mentioned. This feature allows sales reps to easily navigate through the conversation, make comments, and extract and share relevant parts of the conversation.

Furthermore, the software transcribes and summarizes the entire conversation, allowing sales reps to read back through a conversation to ensure they didn’t misunderstand or misspeak about a topic. This feature also saves time and effort in creating detailed summaries of the conversation.

Conclusion: RevComm makes analyzing sales conversations easier

In terms of cost, the software is priced at $69 per user per month. This includes the analysis engine, phone integration, and user interface. Compared to the cost of IP phones, which typically range from $60 to $70 per user per month, the software offers additional value by providing advanced conversation analysis capabilities.

RevComm is a powerful tool that is revolutionizing the way businesses communicate and interact with their customers. By providing valuable insights and feedback on the effectiveness of communication, this software helps sales reps improve their sales conversion rates and enhance customer interactions. With features such as sentiment analysis, content analysis, and conversation pacing analysis, this software provides a comprehensive understanding of the conversation dynamics and enables sales reps to make data-driven decisions. To learn more, check out the company’s website.

Interview by Scott Ertz of F5 Live: Refreshing Technology.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | RSS | More

.lumen: A new era of navigation for the visually impaired @ CES 2024

February 1, 2024AI, CES 2024, Healthai, artificial intelligence, ces2024, gadgets, glasses, Health, visually imparedPLUGHITZ Live

.lumen visually impaired guidance Technology has the power to transform the lives of people with disabilities, providing them with greater independence and opportunities. Haptic feedback glasses for the visually impaired are a groundbreaking development designed to uplift the lives of these individuals. Cornel Amariei, the CEO and founder of .lumen, is committed to creating glasses that mimic the primary functions of a guide dog.

Glasses for blind with haptic feedback

One of the major issues facing blind people is the limited availability of guide dogs, with only 28,000 dogs serving the 40 million blind people worldwide. The cost of training a guide dog, which amounts to around $70,000, and the extensive effort required from blind individuals make guide dogs a non-scalable solution. To address this issue, .lumen has developed glasses that utilize self-driving technology and a patented haptic feedback interface.

The .lumen glasses function similarly to a guide dog, pulling the user’s head instead of their hand. The haptic feedback creates the sensation of something holding and pulling the head in the direction the user needs to go, avoiding obstacles and ensuring safety. The company has been testing with over 250 blind individuals internationally and has shown the glasses to be incredibly effective, even surpassing the capabilities of guide dogs.

In terms of functionality, the .lumen glasses can be directed to guide the user to specific locations or provide general guidance. The glasses compute obstacle positions a hundred times per second, ensuring seamless navigation. The haptic feedback on the forehead provides intuitive guidance, allowing blind individuals to navigate their surroundings without the need for a physical guide.

Why haptic feedback instead of audio alerts

The decision to incorporate haptic feedback into the glasses was driven by the desire to provide non-intrusive yet informative feedback. Blind individuals heavily rely on their hearing, so audio feedback was deemed unsuitable. By utilizing haptics, .lumen ensures that the feedback is intuitive and easily understandable. The head was chosen as the feedback location due to its natural inclination to turn and gather information about the surroundings.

Similar to guide dogs, which do not bark when there is an obstacle but rather guide the individual around it, the glasses use haptics to gently steer the user. The glasses are engineered to handle complex outdoor challenges, such as distinguishing between the sidewalk and the road, through extensive AI training and data analysis.

The decision to develop glasses with haptic feedback stemmed from the desire to address the limitations of guide dogs and provide a scalable solution for the millions of blind individuals who cannot have access to a guide dog. Amariei’s passion for improving the lives of blind individuals is evident in his dedication to creating a product that not only replicates the capabilities of guide dogs but also exceeds them in some cases.

The origins of .lumen

Amariei shares his personal experience growing up in a family of people with disabilities and how it inspired them to create technology specifically for this community. He mentions that he comes from Eastern Europe, specifically Transylvania, where he witnessed firsthand the challenges faced by people with disabilities.

However, he also recognized the potential of technology to address these challenges. Coming from a background in automotive, specifically autonomous driving, he understood the capabilities of technology and saw an opportunity to create something better.

Conclusion: Haptics make for a safer and scalable experience

It is important to note that, in terms of price, it is not intended for the blind individuals themselves to pay for it. Instead, they are exploring reimbursement and subsidy programs, such as those found in Europe, to ensure that the technology is accessible and affordable for those who need it.

In conclusion, the development of glasses for the blind with haptic feedback represents a significant advancement in assistive technology. These glasses have the potential to transform the lives of blind individuals by providing them with a reliable, intuitive, and scalable solution for navigation and obstacle avoidance. With further advancements in technology and increased accessibility, glasses like Lumen’s have the power to empower blind individuals and enable them to live more independent and fulfilling lives.

Interview by Scott Ertz of F5 Live: Refreshing Technology.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | RSS | More

Nimagna: Unleashing the power of AI in video communications @ CES 2024

January 30, 2024AI, Cameras, CES 2024, Entertainment, Videoai, artificial intelligence, ces2024, gadgets, teleconference, videoPLUGHITZ Live

Nimagna AI virtual studio Video communication has become an integral part of our lives, especially in recent times when remote work and virtual meetings have become the norm. However, traditional video calls and presentations often lack the engagement and connection that comes with in-person interactions. That’s where Nimagna, a Swiss startup, comes in, revolutionizing video communications with the power of artificial intelligence (AI).

Revolutionizing video communications with AI

Nimagna, founded by Stephan Stadler, a computer science expert with a background in computer graphics, aims to bring the capabilities of professional TV broadcasts to video communications for everyone. Stadler’s previous company, LibraVision, was responsible for the graphics seen on ESPN and Fox Sports broadcasts. Now, with Nimagna, he is applying his expertise in visualization and camera analysis to transform video communications.

The goal of Nimagna is to eliminate the dullness and lack of engagement in video presentations. Stadler understands that when using platforms like Zoom or Teams for presentations, the presenter often becomes small on the screen, losing the human connection with the audience. Nimagna’s solution is to create an immersive and captivating video experience without the need for extensive setups or gear.

How Nimagna’s software works

Using AI, Nimagna’s software allows users to be cut out of their background environment and placed on a three-dimensional virtual stage. This stage can be augmented with various content, such as PowerPoint slides, images, and videos. The movements and transitions on this virtual stage are all controlled by AI, creating a dynamic and visually appealing presentation. What’s remarkable is that this can be achieved with just two static cameras, eliminating the need for expensive pan-tilt-zoom cameras.

The output of the Nimagna software appears as a webcam, making it compatible with popular video conferencing platforms such as Teams, Zoom, and Webex. Users can also use their favorite recording devices to capture the content. The software enables live streaming of presentations during video calls and allows users to record and share their content on social media platforms or professional networks like LinkedIn.

The quality of the Nimagna software’s output is a key focus for the company. As computer graphics experts, they strive to deliver high-quality visuals. While there may be some pixelation or artifacting, especially in more challenging environments, the software generally provides a solid and visually appealing experience. The founders acknowledge that achieving pixel-perfect quality similar to what is seen on professional broadcasts is challenging but state that for 99% of use cases, Nimagna’s output is more than sufficient.

The possibilities are literally endless

The possibilities that Nimagna presents are truly game-changing. It allows individuals and organizations to have access to the kind of professional studios and setups that were once only available to big-budget productions. The ability to create visually stunning presentations and engage audiences on a deeper level opens up new opportunities for businesses, educators, and content creators.

Imagine being able to stand inside a multi-million dollar studio, controlling the virtual stage with AI, and delivering a presentation that captivates your audience. Nimagna’s technology makes this possible, democratizing video communications and empowering individuals to create high-quality content without the need for extensive resources.

Conclusion: Nimagna makes presentations more engaging

In conclusion, Nimagna’s AI-powered video communication technology is revolutionizing the way we engage with virtual presentations. By bringing professional-grade capabilities to everyone, Nimagna empowers individuals and organizations to create visually stunning and engaging content. As we continue to navigate the world of remote work and virtual interactions, innovations like Nimagna’s offer a glimpse into the future of video communications.

The software is available today for Windows and macOS. The company offers a few pricing options starting at free and going up to Enterprise licensing for large corporations and more custom needs. To learn more or download the software, head over to their website.

Interview by Scott Ertz of F5 Live: Refreshing Technology.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | RSS | More

ElliQ: AI companion to alleviate loneliness in older adults @ CES 2024

January 28, 2024AI, CES 2024, Health, Roboticsaging, ai, artificial intelligence, ces2024, elder care, gadgets, HealthPLUGHITZ Live

ElliQ companion robot for elderly Intuition Robotics is a company that has created an AI-driven companion named ElliQ. This innovative product is designed to combat feelings of loneliness and social isolation in older adults. It aims to promote health and activity, supporting seniors as they continue to live independently.

AI companion for elderly adults

Loneliness among the elderly is a significant issue in the country. It has been declared a public health crisis by the Surgeon General of the United States, as it surpasses obesity and drug abuse as the leading cause of death among older adults. It is emphasized that there is a shortage of young people who can spend quality time with the elderly on a daily basis.

The impact of loneliness on the health of elderly individuals is immense. Loneliness can have detrimental effects on physical and mental well-being, and it is often underestimated. The story of a customer whose husband passed away after 65 years of marriage is shared to illustrate the profound impact of loneliness. ElliQ’s ability to greet her, compliment her appearance, and encourage her to go out and be socially active has transformed her life, giving her a reason to get dressed and engage with the world.

Intuition Robotics recognized the potential for technology to address this issue and created ElliQ as a solution. However, they wanted their product to be more than just a monitoring device or a prompt-based AI assistant like Alexa. They aimed to create a true friend and companion for the elderly. To achieve this, the device spends material amounts of time with the older adult, remembers past conversations, initiates conversations, and helps the individual achieve their own goals towards healthier aging and social connectivity.

Unlike prompt-driven AI, ElliQ actively engages in conversations and prompts the individual for information and action. It classifies and remembers conversations, using them to create future interactions. For example, it may ask about sleep quality, remind the individual of previous pain, and suggest breathing exercises. It can also take physical or digital actions, such as creating tailored stress reduction exercises or arranging video conferences with loved ones or healthcare professionals.

ElliQ versus wearables

Wearables can be a great way to track health statistics in kids and adults. However, older adults are less likely to wear these devices, partially because they are unaccustomed to them and partially because they might simply forget to put them on.

While ElliQ is not a wearable device itself, it can be seen in a comparable place in the sense that it interacts with the user and provides a physical presence. Nevertheless, the hope is that as wearables have become more popular among younger people, ElliQ can provide similar capabilities for older people while adding the benefit of a companion’s personality.

A powerful but affordable companion

One might assume that an AI-enabled robot like ElliQ would come with a high price tag. However, CEO Dor Skuler reveals that ElliQ is surprisingly affordable, with a monthly charge between $50 and $60. This makes it accessible to a wider range of individuals and families who are seeking a solution to combat loneliness among their elderly loved ones.

The affordability of ElliQ is further enhanced by the fact that many local state and government organizations are funding the product. In certain areas, such as New York and most counties in Florida, ElliQ can be obtained for free, paid for by agencies like the Office for the Aging. Additionally, Medicare and Medicaid companies are also distributing ElliQ to their population, recognizing the positive impact it can have on mental health and overall well-being.

Conclusion: ElliQ can help older adults feel less lonely

In summary, AI-enabled robots like ElliQ have been shown to effectively alleviate loneliness among the elderly. The importance of tackling this issue is underscored, and the cost-effectiveness and easy accessibility of ElliQ are high. ElliQ offers more than just assistance; it provides companionship, support, and a proactive presence, becoming a genuine friend and confidant for older adults. Through its interactions and features, ElliQ not only enhances mental well-being but also has the potential to positively influence physical health and overall life quality for the elderly. To learn more about ElliQ or to get one for yourself or a loved one, check out the company’s website.

Interview by Christopher Jordan of The Talking Sound.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | RSS | More

Stacksync: Simplify data syncing, streamline CRM integration @ CES 2024

January 28, 2024AI, CES 2024, Dataai, artificial intelligence, ces2024, crm, data, gadgets, internetPLUGHITZ Live

Stacksync CRM integration Real-time database integration has become essential in today’s data-driven business environment, offering the capability to access and analyze data promptly. However, integrating databases with customer relationship management (CRM) systems has historically been complex and time-consuming, demanding extensive coding and development efforts. Real-time data integration has emerged as a revolutionary concept reshaping the business landscape. Leading this transformation is Stacksync, a company at the forefront of real-time data integration. The company’s product allows for faster integrations and syncing of data, giving all aspects of a company access to crucial data they wouldn’t traditionally have access to.

Real-time data integration for CRMs: Revolutionizing business operations

Traditionally, linking a CRM with various databases and systems involved extensive coding and time-consuming efforts. Developers had to invest months in crafting intricate workflows to ensure seamless data sharing. This not only consumed time but also incurred significant costs. Stacksync, however, introduces a groundbreaking no-code solution, enabling the connection of CRMs and databases within just five minutes.

But how does Stacksync achieve this code-free integration seamlessly? The company encapsulates complexity into a user-friendly interface, delivering robust data without the need for developers to manually resolve database or CRM issues. Stacksync guarantees a real-time, two-way sync, ensuring data is consistently up-to-date and accurate.

The implementation time for Stacksync is impressively fast, with businesses able to integrate the platform within 10 days, even for projects that typically take six months. This swift turnaround time underscores the efficiency and user-friendliness of Stacksync.

A different approach to handling data

Stacksync’s real-time and two-way sync capabilities set it apart from other integration solutions. By transforming the database into a read-and-write interface, Stacksync facilitates the seamless flow of real-time raw metrics, computed metrics, and AI-processed data insights to CRM systems. This eliminates the need for complex workflows and significantly reduces the time and budget required for integration.

Stacksync also includes real-time batching, which optimizes API usage and reduces costs. Instead of numerous API calls for each modification to the database, Stacksync batches these changes, making only a few API calls. This enables businesses to modify large amounts of data while consuming fewer API credits, resulting in substantial cost savings.

Real-time data improves the customer experience

The implications of real-time data integration for CRMs are profound. Businesses gain access to the most current customer information, allowing for immediate action. For instance, a B2B SaaS company can monitor a customer’s platform interactions within the last 24 hours, identify usage issues, or detect cart abandonment. This real-time data enables direct engagement within the CRM or marketing platform, eliminating the reliance on additional data sources.

But, the platform also gives access to this data to areas of the company that would not have had it previously. In our previous example, if the customer had called for support, the agent likely would not know that there had been a cart abandoned the day before. Having this info, and the contents of that abandoned cart could help the agent solve the customer’s issue that previously would have been a void.

Furthermore, the impact extends to artificial intelligence (AI). Real-time data analysis enables AI algorithms to identify customer preferences, interests, and behaviors, allowing businesses to tailor their offerings and marketing messages. This not only reduces reliance on Salesforce but also amplifies the effectiveness of marketing campaigns.

Who is Stacksync designed for?

The use cases for Stacksync’s real-time data integration platform are diverse, primarily benefiting companies with 30 to 250 employees actively utilizing CRMs and maintaining sales teams. Real-time data access empowers businesses to make informed decisions, personalize marketing efforts, and enhance overall customer satisfaction.

Furthermore, Stacksync’s platform is scalable, meaning it can handle large data sets and millions or billions of records. This makes it suitable for companies of all sizes, from small startups to massive enterprises with extensive Salesforce instances. The platform ensures that real-time data integration remains efficient and effective, regardless of the scale.

One of Stacksync’s key advantages lies in its ability to handle large and unstructured datasets. As businesses accumulate vast amounts of data in the era of artificial intelligence (AI), Stacksync allows users to input this data into its platform seamlessly. The platform then writes the data back into the database, enabling businesses to leverage AI for processing and analyzing data, extracting valuable insights without the need to touch the API.

Conclusion

To summarize, Stacksync serves as a game-changer by making real-time database integration easy for businesses. The platform’s no-code solution simplifies the integration process, saving time and money. Access to real-time data empowers businesses to make informed decisions, personalize marketing efforts, and enhance customer satisfaction. With Stacksync’s scalability and customizable features, businesses of all sizes can harness the power of real-time data integration, positioning themselves for success in the data-driven era, especially as AI continues to evolve. Stacksync stands as a leader in providing businesses with the essential tools to thrive in this data-centric revolution.

To learn more about Stacksync, to get a demo, or to sign up for yourself, head over to their website.

Interview by Christopher Jordan of The Talking Sound.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | RSS | More

ilume tracks your dog’s activity to prevent overfeeding @ CES 2024

January 27, 2024AI, CES 2024, Healthai, artificial intelligence, ces2024, gadgets, Health, petPLUGHITZ Live

ilume dog tracking and feeding AI-powered dog tracking and feeding is a revolutionary technology that aims to help dog owners better understand and care for their pets. This technology, developed by ilume, utilizes artificial intelligence to track a dog’s movements and accurately determine its caloric expenditure. By doing so, it can provide precise feeding recommendations, ensuring that dogs receive the perfect amount of food each day.

AI-powered dog tracking and feeding

The idea behind this technology stemmed from the founder and CEO of ilume, Craig Silbury’s, passion for dogs and his realization that many dogs are overweight or obese. Silbury recognized that dogs’ daily calorific requirements can vary significantly, even among dogs from the same litter with the same genetics, upbringing, and environment. Some dogs are naturally more active, while others prefer a more relaxed lifestyle. However, overfeeding is a common issue, leading to obesity, which is considered the leading cause of preventable death in dogs.

To address this problem, ilume developed a tracker that can recognize different types of motions, including walking, playing, scratching, and dreaming. By analyzing the intensity and frequency of these motions, the tracker can accurately determine a dog’s caloric expenditure. This information is then used to provide feeding recommendations through an app and an automatic bowl. The bowl is equipped with scales and rings that light up, indicating the precise amount of food needed for each meal. If too much food is added, the bowl will signal the owner to remove the excess.

How the technology works

The tracking fob, which is attached to the dog’s collar, plays a crucial role in collecting data. It recognizes various types of motions and sends this information to the cloud for analysis. By studying the dog’s past behavior patterns, the system can build a comprehensive profile of the dog’s nutritional needs for the day. Additionally, the technology has potential applications beyond tracking and feeding. It can also monitor a dog’s health conditions, such as seizures or diabetes, and provide valuable information to veterinarians for better diagnosis and treatment.

What sets this technology apart is its ability to adapt to a dog’s changing behavior patterns. It takes into account factors such as exercise levels, weather conditions, and the dog’s individual preferences. For example, if a dog typically receives more exercise on weekends, the technology will predict and adjust the feeding recommendations accordingly. Similarly, if it’s raining and the dog is less likely to go for a walk, the system will compensate for the reduced activity level. This ensures that the dog receives the appropriate amount of food each day, promoting a healthy weight and overall well-being.

While the specifics of the AI algorithms and technology used in this system are proprietary, the overall concept holds immense promise for dog owners. AI-powered dog tracking and feeding has the potential to revolutionize the way we care for our pets. By leveraging technology to understand a dog’s individual needs and behavior patterns, this innovation can help prevent obesity, promote overall health, and strengthen the bond between dogs and their owners.

Conclusion: AI makes for a healthier dog

In conclusion, AI-powered dog tracking and feeding is an innovative solution that addresses the issue of overfeeding and obesity in dogs. By accurately tracking a dog’s movements and using AI algorithms to determine its caloric expenditure, this technology provides precise feeding recommendations. The system adapts to a dog’s changing behavior patterns, ensuring that it receives the appropriate amount of food each day. Additionally, the technology can monitor a dog’s health conditions and provide valuable information to veterinarians. This groundbreaking technology has the potential to significantly improve the well-being of dogs and enhance the relationship between dogs and their owners.

The ilume pet tracker is currently available for pre-order. Current pre-orders are going for $300 with a limited number available. To pre-order yours, head to the company’s website.

Interview by Christopher Jordan of The Talking Sound.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | RSS | More

FlowIt: Transforming HR employee reviews and training @ CES 2024

January 26, 2024AI, CES 2024ai, artificial intelligence, ces2024, hr, internetPLUGHITZ Live

FlowIt HR system FlowIt offers revolutionary B2B SaaS software that is transforming the human resources landscape. This software is designed to enhance people development and minimize attrition costs. It tackles common HR challenges such as annual reviews, surveys, skill management, succession planning, and the integration of learning and management into everyday life.

HR software that reduces attrition

Traditionally, many companies have relied on inefficient methods like paper-pencil processes, Excel files, and Word files to manage personal development. These methods are perceived as inefficient, painful, and disliked by employees and leaders alike. FlowIt recognized the need for timely solutions that are agile, engaging, and integrated into the workflow with minimal effort.

FlowIt’s system aims to make people development fun for users, engaging for leaders, and effective and powerful for the board and HR. By providing a user-friendly interface and streamlining processes, the software frees up time for leaders and HR professionals to focus on tasks they love. It also reduces the cost of attrition by addressing the pain points that often lead to employee turnover.

Simplifying the onboarding process

One specific pain point that FlowIt addresses is the onboarding process. Onboarding new employees involves paperwork, document verification, and ensuring they have the necessary resources and training. FlowIt’s software offers a Learn Management System (LMS) that guides new employees through a comprehensive onboarding journey.

The system includes training, safety protocols, welcome messages from CHROs and COs, and all the necessary resources and links. By providing a structured onboarding experience, FlowIt aims to make new employees feel comfortable and engaged, reducing churn in the first few months.

Employee reviews are no longer a pain

FlowIt’s software also tackles the annual review process, which often poses challenges for both employees and managers. Traditional methods, such as lengthy Word files with numerous questions, often result in employees disliking the process and the discussions being overlooked. FlowIt’s digital system engages all employees, including frontline workers who are often underserved.

The software is designed to be agile, intuitive, and multilingual, ensuring everyone can participate. By capturing ongoing highlights and lowlights throughout the year, the software eliminates the need for employees to recall their achievements from months ago during the annual review. This ongoing process allows for a more accurate and comprehensive review, focusing on tangible actions rather than friction and pain points.

Brag sheet for employee evaluations

One specific feature of FlowIt’s HR software that stands out is the “brag sheet” for employee evaluations. This feature allows supervisors to track and document the accomplishments and achievements of their team members on a quarterly basis. The supervisor provides each employee with a brag sheet, where they can highlight their accomplishments and successes during the quarter. This information is then stored in the employee’s file and used to build their annual evaluation.

The brag sheet serves multiple purposes. First, it allows employees to showcase their achievements and contributions to the organization. This not only boosts their morale and sense of accomplishment but also provides a clear record of their performance over time. Second, it provides supervisors with valuable information when it comes time to make decisions about promotions and career advancement. By having documented evidence of an employee’s accomplishments, supervisors have the ammunition they need to advocate for their team members and ensure that deserving individuals are recognized and rewarded.

Furthermore, the brag sheet feature helps solve the challenge of identifying top performers and differentiating them from underperformers. With a clear record of each employee’s accomplishments, supervisors can easily identify the top workers and make informed decisions about promotions and career development opportunities. This eliminates the need for subjective evaluations and ensures that promotions are based on merit and documented evidence.

FlowIt’s HR software takes the concept of the brag sheet even further by providing a digital platform where all feedback, results, and evaluations are stored and accessible to employees, managers, and HR professionals. The software uses AI to analyze the data and create dashboards that provide valuable insights for proactive decision-making. This includes career plans, recommendations for actions, and even anonymous employee feedback.

Conclusion: A simplified HR experience

Overall, FlowIt‘s HR software is revolutionizing the way companies approach people development and reducing attrition. By addressing pain points, streamlining processes, and providing an engaging and user-friendly experience, the software empowers HR professionals to effectively manage and develop their workforce. With the ability to measure audience engagement, host audio and video content, and provide detailed analytics, software platforms like FlowIt’s offer a comprehensive solution for HR departments seeking to improve employee satisfaction, reduce attrition, and ultimately boost the bottom line.

Interview by Todd Cochrane of Geek News Central.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | RSS | More

Dolphin Design: Better IoT with ultra-low power AI chips @ CES 2024

January 24, 2024AI, CES 2024, Computers, Mobileai, artificial intelligence, ces2024, gadgets, powerPLUGHITZ Live

Dolphin Design low power chips Ultra-low-power AI chips can revolutionize the way companies build IoT smart devices and power artificial intelligence capabilities. In this conversation, Vincent Huard, the CTO of Dolphin Design, discusses the company’s focus on developing ultra-low power chips for various applications, including power management, audio, and AI.

The challenge of power consumption

One of the main challenges in implementing cutting-edge AI is power consumption. High power requirements raise costs and limit the scalability of innovative devices. Dolphin Design’s ultra-low-power AI chips address this issue by significantly reducing power consumption, making it more feasible to deploy AI-enabled devices in real-life scenarios.

These revolutionary plug-and-play chips provide energy-efficient solutions that can run on battery power for extended periods and can even operate without a battery at all, a key factor in their adoption. Dolphin Design aims to attract customers in the imaging, microcontroller, and MPU industries who want to incorporate AI into their devices in a cost-effective manner.

Low-power chip applications

There are a lot of practical use cases for these chips. In smart buildings, they can be used to count the number of people in a room and adjust heating or cooling accordingly. In retail, the chips can track customer movement and analyze their interests, helping businesses optimize product placement. The chips can also be used in urban planning to monitor bike paths or count the number of bicycles passing through a specific area.

The chips have potential applications in safety and disaster management, as well. For instance, they can replace manual car clickers used to count traffic on roads, providing more accurate and reliable data. They can also be deployed in isolated areas to detect wildfires and send alerts, enabling faster response times and potentially saving lives.

Low-cost, scalable IoT solutions

One area where low-cost, scalable IoT solutions can have a significant impact is in the management of sensors and data transfer in smart city applications. The scalability issues associated with sending sensor information over the network can be costly in terms of data transfer and data center expenses. However, these scalability issues can be effectively managed with ultra-low power chips.

Low-power consumption IoT solutions are beneficial when it’s hard to provide power, as the battery-powered chips offer a cost-effective alternative to running cables over long distances. These chips can also incorporate renewable energy sources, making these solutions even more efficient and sustainable.

Conclusion: Low-power smart chips are a win for afforidable IoT

Dolphin Design sees two main prospects for their smart chip: chip manufacturers and system makers. Chip manufacturers can license the AI chips’ intellectual property (IP) to incorporate into their own chips, while system makers can collaborate with the company to develop specialized chips.

Dolphin Design’s low-cost, scalable IoT solutions offer a transformative, energy efficient, cost-effective approach to implementing AI at a larger scale. With their wide range of applications and integration possibilities, these solutions have the potential to revolutionize industries and contribute to the development of smart cities and other IoT applications.

For those interested in learning more about low-cost, scalable IoT solutions, Dolphin Design is ready to help. They offer both IP licensing and design services, making it possible for companies without chip design teams to still benefit from these solutions. Dolphin Design’s website provides more information about their offerings and capabilities.

Interview by Todd Cochrane of Geek News Central.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | RSS | More