December 30, 2024
Tech News
Parents in the U.S. are increasingly advocating for schools to ban cell phones during the school day due to concerns over their impact on students’ mental health. A Connecticut Attorney General highlighted the anxiety and social issues linked to smartphone use among teens, prompting discussions on technology policies in schools. Research indicates a significant correlation between phone usage and mental health problems, leading to calls for stricter regulations on digital device access in classrooms.
A report from Telenor reveals that while three-quarters of Malaysians are using AI tools, there are significant concerns about data privacy and misuse. The study highlights a “privacy paradox,” where individuals recognize the benefits of AI but remain wary of its implications. Despite these concerns, many Malaysians express excitement about AI’s potential, emphasizing the need for shared responsibility among individuals, governments, and service providers to ensure online safety and trust in digital technologies.
South Africa’s TymeBank and Nigeria’s Moniepoint have recently achieved unicorn status by adapting fintech models to meet the needs of unbanked populations in Africa. Both companies combine digital banking with physical touchpoints to enhance customer engagement. Their hybrid approach contrasts with purely digital models seen in developed markets, recognizing the importance of in-person interactions in regions where cash transactions dominate. This strategy has allowed them to scale effectively and expand their services beyond banking, addressing the unique challenges of the African market.
Tech Explained
AI tools – Artificial Intelligence tools are software applications that mimic human cognitive functions such as learning and problem-solving to perform tasks that typically require human intelligence.
Fintech – Fintech refers to the use of technology to improve and automate financial services, including banking, insurance, and investment management, often disrupting traditional financial institutions.
Unicorn status – Unicorn status is a term used in the venture capital industry to describe a privately held startup company with a valuation exceeding $1 billion.
Data privacy – Data privacy refers to the protection of personal information from unauthorized access, use, or disclosure, ensuring that individuals have control over how their data is collected and shared.
Online safety – Online safety encompasses practices and measures to protect individuals and their information from online threats, such as cyberbullying, identity theft, and phishing scams.
