Month: September 2024
How the Liberty’s Length Could be the Key to the W.N.B.A. Semifinals
New York’s size and mobility have paid immediate dividends for the team.
New York’s size and mobility have paid immediate dividends for the team.
Is Aaron Rodgers Too Good for the New York Jets?
The team’s offense flopped in a 10-9 defeat Sunday despite Rodgers delivering an array of impressive passes.
The team’s offense flopped in a 10-9 defeat Sunday despite Rodgers delivering an array of impressive passes.
Kansas City Is Surviving Each Team’s Best Shot, but How Much More Can It Take?
The team’s margin for error became much slimmer with the loss of the wide receiver Rashee Rice to a serious injury.
The team’s margin for error became much slimmer with the loss of the wide receiver Rashee Rice to a serious injury.
Is This a Refinance Boom or Bust? What the Mortgage Market Tells Us
Rates would have to drop to 4% for most homeowners to consider refinancing.
Rates would have to drop to 4% for most homeowners to consider refinancing.
Oasis won’t use Ticketmaster’s dynamic pricing for North America tour
Photo: Getty Images
Oasis announced the North America leg of its 2025 reunion tour this morning, and the band’s management also shared a decision that will be welcome news to fans: they won’t have to worry about inflated “dynamic pricing” rates when ticket sales kick off on October 4th. Dynamic pricing allows for ticket costs to fluctuate based on demand, but all too often, the end result is that prices surge far beyond face value for high-profile performances. This has led many people to bemoan the feature in recent years.
“It is widely accepted that dynamic pricing remains a useful tool to combat ticket touting and keep prices for a significant proportion of fans lower than the market rate and thus more affordable,” the statement reads.
“But, when unprecedented ticket demand (where the entire tour could be sold many times over at the moment tickets go on sale) is combined with technology that cannot cope with that demand, it becomes less effective and can lead to an unacceptable experience for fans.”
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Dynamic pricing was in effect for Oasis’ UK and Ireland shows, and the resulting sky-high prices outraged many hopeful buyers, leading to an investigation from the Competition and Markets Authority. For its part, Ticketmaster has always maintained that artists have the option of disabling dynamic pricing for any event. Oasis has now done so “to hopefully avoid a repeat of the issues fans in the UK and Ireland experienced recently,” the band’s management said. As it did with those dates, Oasis is running a presale ballot to help give fans a better shot at securing tickets.
The North America leg of Oasis Live 25 will bring the band to the US for the first time since 2008. The tour dates announced today are:
August 24th: Rogers Stadium, Toronto
August 28th: Soldier Field, Chicago
August 31st: MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford NJ
September 6th: Rose Bowl Stadium, Los Angeles
September 12th: Estadio GNP Seguros, Mexico City
Earlier this year, the US Justice Department, along with 30 state and district attorneys general, filed an antitrust lawsuit against Ticketmaster (and parent company Live Nation), alleging that it has a monopoly in the live ticketing industry. “It is time to break up Live Nation-Ticketmaster,” US Attorney General Merrick Garland said.
Photo: Getty Images
Oasis announced the North America leg of its 2025 reunion tour this morning, and the band’s management also shared a decision that will be welcome news to fans: they won’t have to worry about inflated “dynamic pricing” rates when ticket sales kick off on October 4th. Dynamic pricing allows for ticket costs to fluctuate based on demand, but all too often, the end result is that prices surge far beyond face value for high-profile performances. This has led many people to bemoan the feature in recent years.
“It is widely accepted that dynamic pricing remains a useful tool to combat ticket touting and keep prices for a significant proportion of fans lower than the market rate and thus more affordable,” the statement reads.
“But, when unprecedented ticket demand (where the entire tour could be sold many times over at the moment tickets go on sale) is combined with technology that cannot cope with that demand, it becomes less effective and can lead to an unacceptable experience for fans.”
Dynamic pricing was in effect for Oasis’ UK and Ireland shows, and the resulting sky-high prices outraged many hopeful buyers, leading to an investigation from the Competition and Markets Authority. For its part, Ticketmaster has always maintained that artists have the option of disabling dynamic pricing for any event. Oasis has now done so “to hopefully avoid a repeat of the issues fans in the UK and Ireland experienced recently,” the band’s management said. As it did with those dates, Oasis is running a presale ballot to help give fans a better shot at securing tickets.
The North America leg of Oasis Live 25 will bring the band to the US for the first time since 2008. The tour dates announced today are:
August 24th: Rogers Stadium, Toronto
August 28th: Soldier Field, Chicago
August 31st: MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford NJ
September 6th: Rose Bowl Stadium, Los Angeles
September 12th: Estadio GNP Seguros, Mexico City
Earlier this year, the US Justice Department, along with 30 state and district attorneys general, filed an antitrust lawsuit against Ticketmaster (and parent company Live Nation), alleging that it has a monopoly in the live ticketing industry. “It is time to break up Live Nation-Ticketmaster,” US Attorney General Merrick Garland said.
California governor vetoes controversial AI safety bill
Newsom says SB-1047 ignored “smaller, specialized models” and curtailed innovation.
Enlarge / California Governor Gavin Newsom, seen speaking to reporters after September’s presidential debate. (credit: Getty Images)
California Governor Gavin Newsom has vetoed SB-1047, a controversial artificial intelligence regulation that would have required the makers of large AI models to impose safety tests and kill switches to prevent potential “critical harms.”
In a statement announcing the veto on Sunday evening, Newsom suggested the bill’s specific interest in model size was misplaced. “By focusing only on the most expensive and large-scale models, SB-1047 establishes a regulatory framework that could give the public a false sense of security about controlling this fast-moving technology,” Newsom wrote. “Smaller, specialized models may emerge as equally or even more dangerous than the models targeted by SB-1047—at the potential expense of curtailing the very innovation that fuels advancement in favor of the public good.”
Newsom mentioned specific “rapidly evolving risks” from AI models that could be regulated in a more targeted way, such as “threats to our democratic process, the spread of misinformation and deepfakes, risks to online privacy, threats to critical infrastructure, and disruptions in the workforce.” California already has a number of AI laws on the books targeting some of these potential harms, and many other states have signed similar laws.
Creating the future of work through the power of people and AI
The human impact of generative AI and Generative AI’s influence on employee experiences.
The Asia Pacific business landscape is undergoing a seismic shift, fueled by rapid artificial intelligence (AI) advancements. No longer just a trend, AI is fundamentally transforming how businesses operate and compete. Organizations already recognize that staying competitive in a digital-first world necessitates embracing AI – with AI spending in Asia Pacific projected to reach $78 billion by 2027, according to IDC.
Among the most disruptive advancements in this field is generative AI, which has the potential to redefine the workplace, streamline workflows, and create new opportunities for innovation. The integration of generative AI into the workplace is already driving significant improvements in business outcomes.
The human impact of generative AI
A recent study on the impact of Microsoft Copilot for Microsoft 365 (Copilot for M365) revealed that 85% of employees felt a greater sense of accomplishment in their work following the introduction of the tool. This illustrates how AI can enhance employee engagement and satisfaction by automating mundane tasks and enabling employees to devote more time to activities that require critical thinking and creativity.
Additionally, the study found that 80% of employees remained engaged with their tasks, indicating that Copilot for M365 seamlessly integrated into daily workflows without diminishing the stimulating aspects of work. This shift allows employees to focus on tasks that are not only more challenging but also more fulfilling, contributing to a more dynamic and innovative work environment.
The study also saw the organization’s creativity and innovation score increased by 2% to 82% since the previous year, with approval for embracing new ways of working rising from 80% to 89%. These improvements highlight the potential of generative AI to foster a culture of innovation and collaboration within organizations. By providing employees with tools that enhance their creative capabilities, businesses can unlock new levels of productivity and drive long-term success.
Generative AI’s influence on employee experiences
Despite the clear benefits of generative AI, its adoption is not without challenges. One of the most significant hurdles is employee resistance to change. This resistance can stem from concerns about the transparency and accountability of AI systems.
Results from the study revealed that while 88% of employees felt Copilot for M365 aligned with corporate values, only 65% believed it adequately addressed accountability. This discrepancy highlights the need for organizations to build trust by ensuring that AI systems are transparent and governed by robust frameworks.
Another challenge is the potential impact of AI on team dynamics and employee belongingness. While the introduction of AI tools can enhance individual productivity, it may also inadvertently weaken the social fabric of the workplace if not carefully managed. The study found that although team cohesion remained steady, the average score for belongingness and team collaboration decreased by 2%.
Making the workplace more human with AI
To overcome these challenges and fully harness the potential of generative AI, companies must adopt a people-centric approach that prioritizes the needs and concerns of their employees.
Here are some key strategies to consider:
1. Adopt a people-first approach to AI integration: Organizations should prioritize the human aspects of AI adoption by leading with empathy rather than imposing solutions from top down. This approach involves communicating the value of AI in a way that resonates with each employee and embedding responsible AI processes that reflect the organization’s values. Businesses can build a culture of trust and acceptance around AI by focusing on the human attributes that make us uniquely innovative and creative.
2. Involve employees early in the process: Engaging employees in the AI adoption process from the outset is crucial. By involving them in the development and implementation of AI tools, organizations can address concerns, build trust, and empower employees to take ownership of the technology. This approach ensures that AI solutions are effective and aligned with the business’s specific needs.
3. Provide ongoing, tailored training: AI training should go beyond basic instruction. Companies should establish long-term learning programs tailored to different roles within the organization. These programs should include practical applications of AI in real work scenarios, gamified learning experiences, and recognition of employee contributions. Visible leadership and skilled internal champions are crucial to the success of these programs.
4. Start small and build familiarity: One effective strategy to reduce resistance is to start small and allow employees to gradually familiarize themselves with AI technology. Our own experience with Copilot for M365 demonstrates the effectiveness of this approach.
Looking ahead
Initially, 72% of employees felt cautious about their communications, concerned about the implications of AI transcription. However, after just six weeks of using the tool, 45% reported feeling less cautious, indicating that familiarity with the technology led to increased trust and openness. Starting with small, well-defined AI applications allows companies to create a controlled environment where employees can explore the technology at their own pace, building comfort and reducing resistance.
Generative AI offers a transformative opportunity for businesses to redefine how they operate, innovate, and compete. However, successful AI integration requires more than technical proficiency. By adopting a people-centric approach and involving employees in the AI adoption process, companies can create environments where AI and human skills complement each other, driving business success and enhancing employee satisfaction.
Looking ahead, the key to unlocking AI’s full potential is in balancing technological progress with human values, ensuring that AI enhances rather than replaces human potential.
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WordPress grants WP Engine “reprieve” – but they’ll need to be quick
As the dispute between WordPress CEO and WP Engine continues, customers are given a short lifeline.
The battle between Automattic CEO Matt Mullenweg and WP Engine, a WordPress hosting provider, continues in full swing, but the former is cutting the latter, and its customers, a very brief moment of slack.
“We have lifted the blocks of their servers from accessing ours, until October 1, UTC 00:00. Hopefully this helps them spin up their mirrors of all of WordPress.org’s resources that they were using for free while not paying, and making legal threats against us”, Mullenweg wrote on WordPress.org’s blog.
A little over a week ago, Mullenweg likened WP Engine to a “cancer” for the way it benefitted from the open source WordPress project without giving back sufficiently. The disruptions subsequently left WP Engine customers uncertain about access to update tools, but Mullenweg is now giving them a short period to resolve potential issues.
Mullenweg gives WP Engine users temporary access
A little over a week ago, Mullenweg likened WP Engine to a “cancer” for the way it benefitted from the open source WordPress project without giving back sufficiently.
The disruptions subsequently left WP Engine customers uncertain about access to update tools, but Mullenweg is now giving them a short period to resolve potential issues.
In a brief note, Mullenweg criticizes WP Engine for promising “Unmatched performance, automated updates, and bulletproof security ensure your sites thrive” – arguing the company has since failed to provide.
“WP Engine was well aware that we could remove access when they chose to ignore our efforts to resolve our differences and enter into a commercial licensing agreement,” he added
Criticizing WP Engine CEO Heather Brunner, Silver Lake’s Managing Direction Lee Wittlinger, and their Board, he goes on to call WPE “reckless.”
WP Engine hasn’t stayed quiet amid the turmoil; its lawyers sent a cease and desist letter to Mullenweg, who heads up both the WordPress.com hosting business and the WordPress.org project.
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Football Manager 25 is out on November 26
Football Manager 25 is finally on its way, with Sports Interactive confirming the news and announcing a release date. The game will arrive for PC, Mac, Xbox and PS5 on November 26, just in time for some Thanksgiving gameplay. At the same time, FM25 Mobile is launching exclusively on Netflix, while FM25 Touch should come to Nintendo Switch on December 3.
FM25 comes with two big updates: a switch to the Unity engine (everywhere except mobile) and women’s football (or soccer, depending on where you’re reading this from) arriving into the same world as the men’s teams. Sega-owned SI first announced the development of women’s games in 2021, claiming it would take a while to do in order to provide the same depth as the men’s ones. Last year, it confirmed women’s teams would be in FM25.
In a statement, Sports Interactive Studio Director Miles Jacobson said, “The world gets to see two of our multi-year projects come to fruition: the switch to the Unity engine and the introduction of Women’s Football. It gives us a real sense of achievement to begin sharing our hard work with you and we’re really looking forward to showing you more of the game in the weeks before the game’s release.”
Right now, anyone who pre-orders FM25 for PC or Mac from a SEGA-approved digital retailer will get 10 percent off. SI will announce pre-orders for Xbox and PS5 editions later.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/nintendo/football-manager-25-is-out-on-november-26-140032348.html?src=rss
Football Manager 25 is finally on its way, with Sports Interactive confirming the news and announcing a release date. The game will arrive for PC, Mac, Xbox and PS5 on November 26, just in time for some Thanksgiving gameplay. At the same time, FM25 Mobile is launching exclusively on Netflix, while FM25 Touch should come to Nintendo Switch on December 3.
FM25 comes with two big updates: a switch to the Unity engine (everywhere except mobile) and women’s football (or soccer, depending on where you’re reading this from) arriving into the same world as the men’s teams. Sega-owned SI first announced the development of women’s games in 2021, claiming it would take a while to do in order to provide the same depth as the men’s ones. Last year, it confirmed women’s teams would be in FM25.
In a statement, Sports Interactive Studio Director Miles Jacobson said, “The world gets to see two of our multi-year projects come to fruition: the switch to the Unity engine and the introduction of Women’s Football. It gives us a real sense of achievement to begin sharing our hard work with you and we’re really looking forward to showing you more of the game in the weeks before the game’s release.”
Right now, anyone who pre-orders FM25 for PC or Mac from a SEGA-approved digital retailer will get 10 percent off. SI will announce pre-orders for Xbox and PS5 editions later.
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/nintendo/football-manager-25-is-out-on-november-26-140032348.html?src=rss
Epic Games Sues Google and Samsung Over App Store Restrictions
Epic Games filed a new antitrust lawsuit against Google and Samsung, alleging they conspired to undermine third-party app stores. The suit focuses on Samsung’s “Auto Blocker” feature, now enabled by default on new phones, which restricts app installations to “authorized sources” – primarily Google and Samsung’s stores.
Epic claims Auto Blocker creates significant barriers for rival stores, requiring users to navigate a complex process to install third-party apps. The company argues this feature does not actually assess app safety, but is designed to stifle competition. Epic CEO Tim Sweeney stated the lawsuit aims to benefit all developers, not secure special privileges for Epic. The company seeks either default deactivation of Auto Blocker or creation of a fair whitelisting process for legitimate apps. This legal action follows Epic’s December victory against Google in a separate antitrust case. Epic recently launched its own mobile app store, which it claims faces unfair obstacles due to Auto Blocker.
Read more of this story at Slashdot.
Epic Games filed a new antitrust lawsuit against Google and Samsung, alleging they conspired to undermine third-party app stores. The suit focuses on Samsung’s “Auto Blocker” feature, now enabled by default on new phones, which restricts app installations to “authorized sources” – primarily Google and Samsung’s stores.
Epic claims Auto Blocker creates significant barriers for rival stores, requiring users to navigate a complex process to install third-party apps. The company argues this feature does not actually assess app safety, but is designed to stifle competition. Epic CEO Tim Sweeney stated the lawsuit aims to benefit all developers, not secure special privileges for Epic. The company seeks either default deactivation of Auto Blocker or creation of a fair whitelisting process for legitimate apps. This legal action follows Epic’s December victory against Google in a separate antitrust case. Epic recently launched its own mobile app store, which it claims faces unfair obstacles due to Auto Blocker.
Read more of this story at Slashdot.