Discover how augmented reality is helping individuals with Parkinson’s manage their symptoms. Explore Amazon's partnership with Hyundai for a hassle-free car shopping experience, complete with enticing promotions. Dive into Norway's innovative mobile payment system that could challenge Apple Pay. Plus, hear about the latest tech advancements from OpenAI and Microsoft, and enjoy lighthearted banter on the convenience of car shopping online versus traditional dealerships.
Amazon's collaboration with Hyundai allows online car purchasing with transparent pricing, revolutionizing the traditional car buying experience.
Stroll's augmented reality solution offers a novel approach to improving walking abilities for Parkinson's patients, enhancing their mobility and independence.
Deep dives
Personalized Weight Loss Solutions
Weight loss is a unique journey for each individual, reflecting varying psychological and physiological needs. For instance, one user, Brittany, highlights how traditional diets often led her to a yo-yo effect, but with a personalized plan, she successfully lost 20 pounds and maintained her weight. Similarly, Stephanie, a former D1 athlete, learned that she couldn't simply out-exercise her diet and ultimately shed 38 pounds. Even Evan, who avoids salads, managed to lose 50 pounds by focusing on building better habits, rather than strict dietary restrictions.
Innovative Car Buying on Amazon
Amazon has ventured into the automotive market, allowing customers to browse and purchase Hyundai vehicles directly from its platform in 48 cities across the United States. This new service not only enables customers to order cars but also provides options for financing and delivery, making the process more convenient. Unlike traditional car buying, where negotiations are common, Amazon offers transparent pricing, which appeals to those who prefer a straightforward purchasing experience. However, the service currently only features Hyundai vehicles, with plans to expand to other brands in the future.
Advancements in AR for Parkinson's Treatment
A company called Stroll has developed an augmented reality solution to assist individuals suffering from Parkinson's disease, aiming to improve their gait and walking ability. Utilizing a Magic Leap headset, their software, Reality DTX, projects virtual cues that help users navigate their environment effectively without hindrance. This innovative approach replaces the need for physical markers on the ground, creating a more practical solution that can adapt to various settings. Although the technology comes with a substantial cost, it offers a promising alternative to traditional physical therapy methods.
The Rise of Competitive Mobile Payment Systems
Norway's VIPPS has introduced a tap-to system that can serve as the default payment method on iPhones, providing a competitive alternative to Apple Pay. This system integrates with over 40 banks in Norway, covering about 70% of the country's banking customers, and is designed to be user-friendly, allowing for easy payment processing similar to Apple Pay. As the European Commission pushes for more competition in mobile payment systems, other companies, including international brands, are likely to follow suit. The challenge remains for competitors to convey their unique advantages to users already satisfied with established services like Apple Pay.
How an AR program may be the key to helping people with Parkinson’s disease manage symptoms. Plus Amazon is partnering with Hyundai to purchase a new car online with more automakers to follow next year. And Norway’s Vipps launches the first tap-to-pay system that can be the default payment system on iPhones instead of Apple Pay.
Starring Tom Merritt, Sarah Lane, Roger Chang, Joe.