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IBM Unveils Comprehensive “Sustainability Technology Guide for Executives”: A Blueprint for Driving Sustainable Business Impacts in Asia Pacific

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Only one fifth of Asia Pacific organizations have a truly strategic approach to sustainability, with the integration of automation and AI system data with enterprise data being the top challenge.Asia Pacific organizations view technology modernization as a crucial step in advancing their sustainability initiatives.

SINGAPORE, Aug. 26, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — IBM (NYSE: IBM), in collaboration with Ecosystm, released a pivotal new whitepaper, the “Sustainability Technology Guide for Executives,” aimed at empowering business leaders in the Asia Pacific region to leverage tech-business synergy to accelerate sustainable transformation.

Ecosystm data reveals that surveyed organizations in the Asia Pacific region are still in the early stages of integrating sustainability into their core business operations, with only 21% having a truly strategic approach to sustainability. Data challenges top the list of sustainability concerns, as achieving a real-time, AI-powered, holistic view of current environmental impact and implementation progress—necessary for prioritizing the most cost-effective ways to achieve sustainability goals—requires a robust baseline of ESG data.

The top challenge faced by Asia Pacific organizations, according to the whitepaper, is the integration of automation and AI system data with enterprise data (48%), followed by the need to collect data from multiple internal systems (45%) and identify the right data for reporting requirements (42%). A recent study by IBM Institute for Business Value also found that only 4 in 10 organizations can automatically source sustainability data from core systems such as ERP, enterprise asset management, CRM, energy management, and facilities management. To enhance credibility, foster trust and strengthen relationships with customers, investors, and other key stakeholders, transparent, verifiable and audit-ready data across the value chain is essential.

Asia Pacific organizations struggle to turn the sustainability agenda into a competitive business advantage, as incorporating sustainability data and insights into operational improvements requires high-quality data and robust governance capabilities that underpin trust. While generative AI can be a game changer for data-driven sustainability, leveraging hybrid cloud to integrate data and facilitate interoperability across organizations is key to enabling sustainability at scale,” said Hans Dekkers, General Manager of IBM Asia Pacific. “Technology is vital for operationalizing sustainability, and IBM solutions and services are assisting organizations throughout the region in harnessing the power of data and AI to achieve a positive sustainable impact that also enhances business value.”

Highlights from the whitepaper include:

Pressure from regulations is not the key drivers of sustainability: While the common perception is that compliance with regulations is a primary factor influencing organizations to adopt sustainability practices, the research reveals that a combination of ethical considerations, financial benefits, and a proactive approach to navigating the evolving landscape are the top drivers of sustainability practices in the Asia Pacific.Technology is key, but a structured approach is required: 64% of Asia Pacific organizations acknowledge the need for tech advisory firms to help define their unique sustainability roadmap, while 40% are already leveraging technology to optimize operations and supply chains. A structured, three-layered framework is essential for establishing data-driven goals and strategies, building a robust data foundation for environmental data collection and analysis, and operationalizing sustainability by embedding sustainable practices into workflows through technology.Sustainability ambitions start with tech modernization: A key step taken by Asia Pacific tech teams to reduce their carbon footprint is refreshing to newer, more efficient infrastructure, with 53% of organizations making this move. To ensure that technological advancements contribute to, rather than hinder, an organization’s sustainability journey, a broader strategy that includes proactively monitoring assets and managing them through the entire lifecycle is required.Concerns over data-hungry AI solutions: The growing adoption of AI brings undeniable benefits, but it also raises concerns about environmental impact. To mitigate this, there is a need for lightweight infrastructure models that require less computational power without compromising efficiency, the use of GPUs for AI workloads, and pre-trained foundation models that require less data and offer faster training times. Additionally, automating AI code generation can reduce processing steps and memory usage, further minimizing the environmental footprint of AI solutions.Bridging the IT-business gap: A significant challenge faced by organizations is the lack of cross-business unit executive involvement and the disconnect between IT and business functions. Currently, 70% of CEOs in Asia Pacific organizations are the primary stakeholders driving the sustainability vision, while only 22% have a dedicated Chief Sustainability Officer (CSO). There is a need for the entire leadership team to take ownership of the sustainability agenda, with the CIO championing the use of technology, the CFO integrating sustainability into financial planning, and the COO aligning operational efficiency with sustainability goals.

“Organizations that embrace tech-led sustainability decisions can turn sustainability from a cost centre into a value driver, ensuring long-term business success while leaving a positive environmental legacy,” said Sash Mukherjee, VP Industry Insights, Ecosystm. “By following the three-layered tech-led sustainability framework and the checklist in this guide, Asia Pacific leaders can create a compelling, data-driven sustainability narrative that inspires action, manages risks, and builds stakeholder trust.”

Additional sources 
Join the webinar

Download a copy of the “Sustainability Technology Guide for Executives” study with the three layered tech-led sustainability framework and an execution checklist.Sign up for Sustainability Technology Guide for Executives webinar with experts on Tuesday, August 27, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. Singapore time.

About Ecosystm 
Ecosystm is a leading research and advisory company that empowers organisations to transform and drive positive change through digital transformation and innovation. We are the trusted partner for businesses seeking market growth and new opportunities, leveraging our in-depth market expertise, data-driven insights, and world-class analysts and advisors. Visit www.ecosystm.io to learn more.

About IBM
IBM is a leading provider of global hybrid cloud and AI, and consulting expertise. We help clients in more than 175 countries capitalise on insights from their data, streamline business processes, reduce costs and gain a competitive edge in their industries. More than 4,000 government and corporate entities in critical infrastructure areas such as financial services, telecommunications and healthcare rely on IBM’s hybrid cloud platform and Red Hat OpenShift to affect their digital transformations quickly, efficiently and securely. IBM’s breakthrough innovations in AI, quantum computing, industry-specific cloud solutions and consulting deliver open and flexible options to our clients. All of this is backed by IBM’s longstanding commitment to trust, transparency, responsibility, inclusivity and service.

Visit www.ibm.com for more information.

Media contact:
Paranee Reymondon
paranee@th.ibm.com 

 

 

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SOURCE IBM

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Most Users Are NOT Using AI Companion as Their AI Girlfriend – Insights from Muah AI User Survey

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LOS ANGELES, Sept. 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Muah AI/

In a world where artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming increasingly intertwined with daily life, the idea of having an AI companion or even an AI “girlfriend” has gained significant attention. While this concept has sparked curiosity, excitement, and even controversy, a recent survey by Muah AI has shed light on the reality of how users are actually engaging with these AI companions. According to the survey results, fewer than 2% of users consider themselves to be in a serious romantic relationship with their AI companion, with the overwhelming majority regarding it as a source of entertainment and roleplaying.

This revelation presents an interesting twist to the popular narrative surrounding AI and human relationships. Many assumed that, with the rise of sophisticated AI that can mimic human emotions and responses, people would begin forming deep emotional bonds with these digital entities. However, the survey data from Muah AI shows that, at least for now, the vast majority of users are not taking these AI relationships as seriously as some might have thought.

The Emergence of AI Companions

AI companions, or “AI girlfriends” as some platforms market them, have become a hot topic over the past few years. Platforms like Replika, Anima, and Muah AI offer users the chance to interact with a personalized AI, which can carry on conversations, offer emotional support, and even engage in roleplaying scenarios that resemble a relationship. The premise is simple: using advanced machine learning algorithms and natural language processing, these AI companions can learn from their users, creating the illusion of intimacy and personalization.

The potential appeal is obvious. For those who are lonely, socially anxious, or seeking comfort, the idea of having an AI that is always available, non-judgmental, and designed to cater to their emotional needs can be incredibly attractive. In fact, there are numerous reports and anecdotes from individuals who claim to have developed genuine emotional connections with their AI companions. But as the Muah AI survey shows, these instances may be far rarer than media headlines suggest.

Survey Results: Entertainment Over Emotional Investment

Muah AI‘s survey provides a comprehensive look at how its users interact with their AI companions, and the results challenge the notion that most users are looking for a serious relationship with AI. According to the data:

Less than 2% of users consider themselves to be “seriously dating” their AI companion.A significant majority view their interactions with the AI as a form of entertainment or roleplaying rather than a meaningful romantic or emotional connection.Many users engage with AI companions out of curiosity or as a way to pass the time, often treating the interactions as light-hearted and fun rather than a substitute for a real-life relationship.A notable portion of users also expressed that they enjoy using AI companions for creative roleplaying scenarios, where they can explore fictional or fantasy-based interactions without any real-world implications.

This data suggests that while the idea of an “AI girlfriend” may be intriguing, most users are not approaching it with the intention of forming a serious romantic bond. Instead, they are treating it more like a game or simulation, where they can experiment with different types of interactions and relationships in a low-stakes environment.

Why Are Users Hesitant to Commit to AI Companions?

There are several reasons why users may be hesitant to view their AI companion as a genuine romantic partner. First and foremost is the awareness of the artificial nature of the interaction. While AI can simulate human conversation and emotions, most users are well aware that these responses are pre-programmed and algorithmically generated. The knowledge that their “partner” is ultimately a machine can create a barrier to forming a deep emotional connection.

Moreover, many users view AI companions as a tool for escapism or fantasy rather than a replacement for real-life relationships. In the same way that people may enjoy playing video games or engaging in fictional roleplaying, interacting with an AI companion can offer a similar outlet for creativity and entertainment. These users are not seeking emotional fulfillment from the AI but rather a way to explore different scenarios and personalities without the complexities of real-world dynamics.

Additionally, there are ethical and philosophical concerns that may prevent users from seriously considering a relationship with AI. The idea of forming a romantic connection with a machine raises questions about authenticity, consent, and the nature of love. Many users may feel uncomfortable with the idea of developing feelings for an entity that lacks true emotions or consciousness, no matter how convincing the simulation may be.

The Future of AI Companions: Entertainment or Emotional Support?

While the Muah AI survey indicates that most users are not taking their AI companions seriously as romantic partners, that does not mean that AI companions are without value. For many, these AI entities serve as a valuable source of emotional support and companionship. Users who are isolated, dealing with mental health challenges, or simply looking for someone to talk to may find comfort in the consistent and non-judgmental nature of an AI companion.

Furthermore, the role of AI in human relationships may evolve as the technology continues to improve. As AI becomes more advanced, it is possible that future iterations of AI companions could offer even more realistic and emotionally engaging interactions. This could blur the line between entertainment and emotional connection even further, leading to more users considering AI as a legitimate relationship option.

However, the survey data suggests that for now, AI companions are primarily being used for fun and fantasy rather than serious emotional investment. Whether this changes in the future will depend not only on advancements in AI technology but also on shifting societal attitudes towards AI-human relationships.

Conclusion

The concept of an “AI girlfriend” may have captured the imagination of many, but Muah AI‘s survey reveals that most users are not taking their AI companions seriously as romantic partners. With fewer than 2% of users considering themselves to be in a serious relationship with their AI, it’s clear that the majority view these interactions as a form of entertainment or roleplaying rather than a meaningful emotional connection.

As AI technology continues to develop, it will be fascinating to see how users’ relationships with AI companions evolve. For now, however, it seems that the allure of AI companionship lies more in its ability to entertain and provide creative outlets than in offering a substitute for real-life romantic relationships.

Ultimately, the future of AI-human relationships is still in its early stages, and as AI becomes more capable, the way people engage with these digital companions may change. But as of now, it’s clear that most users are enjoying the novelty of AI companionship without taking it too seriously—at least not yet.

Media/Business Contact Information:
Muah AI 

PR Director:
Ashley

Contact Number:
+1 626-677-6013

Company Website:
https://muah.ai 

Company email:
love@muah.ai

Feel free to reach out if you are interested in writing a dedicated piece about Muah AI!

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SOURCE Muah AI

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Internet Society Report Highlights Challenges and Recommendations for Internet Connectivity in the Middle East

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WASHINGTON, Sept. 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — The Internet Society (ISOC), a global charitable organization advocating for an open, globally connected, and secure Internet, released a comprehensive report on the state of Internet connectivity across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.

The report underscores Internet connectivity as a catalyst for economic growth and social development and how an increase in fixed broadband access has a direct impact on growing gross domestic product (GDP).

Key Findings:

Growth in Mobile and Fixed Broadband: Both mobile and fixed broadband connections have grown substantially from 2015 to 2021, particularly in Gulf States with advanced fiber-optic and 5G networks. However, deployment has been slower in other parts of the region, primarily due to infrastructure challenges and affordability issues.

Mobile Internet users increased from 130M to over 180M between 2016 and 2021, with Egypt, Tunisia, and Morocco showing the highest growth rates. Fixed broadband users rose from 17M to 29M in the same period, with Egypt leading the way. The Arab region lags behind other regions in fiber optic deployment, with stagnation in investment since 2018.

High-Income Countries: Significant progress in broadband infrastructure, especially in Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries due to 5G rollout. High-income countries improved their Internet availability from 77.34 to 79.37, surpassing global averages.Low-Middle-Income Countries: Broadband has improved modestly, but challenges persist. Despite overall progress, a significant digital divide remains between high-income and low-middle-income countries, partly due to political and economic instability in some regions, such as Tunisia and Syria.

Infrastructure Challenges: There is a heavy reliance on European Internet Exchange Points for international Internet traffic, which results in slower speeds due to additional data hops.

Emerging Technologies: The report emphasizes the role of emerging technologies such as High-Throughput Satellites (HTS) and Low-Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites in bridging the connectivity gap. These technologies are crucial for expanding access to underserved rural areas.

Impact of COVID-19: The COVID-19 pandemic has adversely affected network performance and digital transformation plans, causing delays and disruptions in connectivity improvements.

Recommendations:

Policy and Regulation: The Internet Society advocates revising regulatory frameworks to accelerate infrastructure deployment. Key recommendations include enhancing spectrum policies, removing regulatory barriers, and fostering public-private partnerships to drive investment, competition, and support for small and medium enterprises.

Spectrum Availability: North African countries have limited spectrum compared to global averages, impacting network capacity and costs.Regulatory Frameworks: Enhance regulatory frameworks to foster investment, encourage spectrum and infrastructure sharing, and support new technologies like HTS and LEO satellites.

Collaboration and Investment: Promote public-private partnerships and update national broadband plans to improve infrastructure and connectivity.

Digital Skills and Literacy: Addressing digital skills and literacy is crucial for maximizing the benefits of Internet connectivity. The report calls for more affordable, relevant, and inclusive education and training programs to build a digital workforce.

Local Internet Exchange Points (IXPs): The report stresses the importance of establishing and upgrading IXPs to enhance local Internet traffic, reduce costs, and improve service quality. Governments are encouraged to support IXPs by providing resources and facilitating network interconnections.

“The Internet has become indispensable for many people, and its role in connecting people, fostering economic opportunities, and driving innovation is undeniable. The Arab region has made big leaps in the availability and adoption of the Internet in recent years; however, adoption rates are still low. We hope that governments will use our report to learn about the improvements that can be made in infrastructure deployment, affordability of service, market structure, and regulatory frameworks,” explains Nermine El Saadany, Regional Vice President for the Middle East for the Internet Society.

About the Internet Society
Founded by Internet pioneers, the Internet Society (ISOC) is a global charitable organization dedicated to ensuring the open development, evolution, and use of the Internet. Through a global community of chapters and members, the Internet Society collaborates with a wide range of groups to promote the technologies that keep the Internet safe and secure and advocates for policies that enable universal access. The Internet Society is also the organizational home of the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF).

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View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/internet-society-report-highlights-challenges-and-recommendations-for-internet-connectivity-in-the-middle-east-302251836.html

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Representatives from 57 countries, regions and 6 international organizations, are gathering in Suzhou.

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What important topics are they discussing about? Let’s find out!

BEIJING, Sept. 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — I’m Xiao Lin from National Immigration Administration. On September 9th, the first Sub-Forum on Migration Management Cooperation was successfully held. Representatives from all parties expressed their insights and appeals around the development and innovation of migration governance.

It was truly a content-rich event!

Why does the international community focus on the topic of “Migration Governance” so much?

At present, changes unseen in a century is unfolding at a faster pace. The situation in the wider world remains complex and fluid. However, peace, development, cooperation and win-win results are still an unstoppable historical trend. Migration governance is critical to economic development of individual countries, global security governance and international cultural and people-to-people exchanges. It has increasingly become a key issue in global governance.

Here are the key points:
At the forum, NIA made three commitments: implementing more open policies for the cross-border flow of people, more effective actions in the governance of transnational crimes and more extensive global cooperation in migration governance, injecting new impetus to opening up and development; At the same time, three initiatives have been put forward, [Original scene of the initiative] contributing China’s wisdom and solutions to global migration governance and further showcasing its image as an open, confident, secure, and thriving major power.

Representatives also made keynote speeches, sharing their migration governance policies, measures and experience, and providing their perspectives on regional and international migration governance.

Pooling wisdom for win-win results.

In a changing era, National Immigration Administration of China stands ready to work with all parties to promote global migration governance to a higher level and contribute more wisdom to world peace, development, prosperity and stability!

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SOURCE National Immigration Administration

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