AI POWERED SHOPPING ASSISTANT
From TV journalist to private banker to AI chip executive: The unusual career of Alice Huang, the alleged spy linked to Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang
Alice Huang, also known as Huang Le, is a Chinese citizen whose reported career spans TV journalism, banking, investment management and AI infrastructure. She became the subject of US intelligence scrutiny because of her reported connections with Huang and her position in the AI computing industry. US intelligence officials reportedly suspected that she was gathering information about Nvidia and its advanced AI chips.
Amazon rolls out text-based shopping through Alexa
Amazon said the new text feature lets users research and compare products, track deals and price drops, and have Alexa for Shopping complete purchases on their behalf.
Deepinder Goyal unveils Temple, calls it ‘humanity’s last personal device’; AI wearable to ship in 2027
Deepinder Goyal has unveiled Temple, a screen-free, microphone-free AI wearable he calls “humanity’s last personal device”. Using motion sensors to detect the wearer's voice through vibrations, the device combines AI companionship with health tracking. Temple 01, featuring AI and health capabilities, is expected to ship in early 2027.
Cashfree opens checkout to AI agents, leaves final say with shoppers
Cashfree has introduced Checkout for Agents, allowing AI agents to assist with online payments. This feature utilises WebMCP technology to simplify the checkout process for AI shopping assistants. Customers still maintain control over final payment authorisation and sensitive information is protected. While AI agents currently represent less than 1% of checkout traffic, Cashfree aims to enhance their efficiency. The company limits agent access to sensitive payment steps to ensure security.
AI sharpens cat-and-mouse hacking battle as companies strengthen defences
From hacked supermarket fridges and a record cryptocurrency theft at Binance to an emergency over flaws in widely used web software, companies worldwide are facing a wave of cyber threats executives say AI is accelerating
Figma banking on AI credits, in-house model to lift margins
Figma is leaning on cashing in on its AI features through credits and using its first-party model to power tasks on its design software platform to bolster its margins, finance chief Praveer Melwani told Reuters on Wednesday.
AI shopping agents could threaten Amazon and Walmart's ad business
Retail powerhouses Walmart and Amazon are also the world's two largest retail media businesses, dominating the estimated $74.4 billion in US retail media spending with a combined 88% share of that market, according to projections from data firm Emarketer. But digital assistants could soon disrupt that business.
TIME’s Best Inventions of 2026: This wheelchair drives like a self-driving car, with sensors, voice commands, and collision avoidance
The Strutt ev¹ stands out as a revolutionary invention, featuring an intelligent co-pilot navigation system that empowers users with unmatched independence. This electric wheelchair operates autonomously and adapts to diverse settings. Equipped with state-of-the-art robotics, sensors, and voice-activated controls, it offers unparalleled accessibility. Priced at $7,499, the Strutt ev¹ is available online, complemented by a test drive option.
How Students Can Use AI to Study Smarter Without Letting AI Do the Thinking for Them
Join the Winter Cohort of the AI Bootcamp for Students by Times of India, where learners will harness cutting-edge AI tools like Claude, Gemini, and NotebookLM. This program aims to transform education by empowering students to explore difficult concepts and craft customized learning materials. Participants will also learn to sharpen their questioning abilities, design interactive review content, and strengthen their overall study habits.
Apple Q4 results beat estimates as iPhone 18 Pro demand, price hikes offset rising chip costs
Apple reported better-than-expected Q4 revenue of $114.48 billion and earnings of $2.10 per share, driven by strong iPhone 18 Pro demand and Mac sales. Higher product prices helped offset rising memory-chip costs. The company is also expanding its AI offerings, while addressing supply constraints affecting its first foldable iPhone.
Decoded: Will AI agents outlast the hype?
Krish Ramineni, founder of AI note-taking company Fireflies.ai, said consumers were experimenting with applications ranging from shopping and price comparisons to booking flights and hotels, making restaurant reservations, managing bills and subscriptions, and seeking refunds.
Instinct's WhatsApp scare: Glitch that cried wolf
The incident has also brought attention to Meta’s restrictions on competing AI assistants and the challenges facing companies building personal AI agents. Tanya Pandey explains what happened and why it matters.
HCLTech launches AI agents to automate enterprise mainframe operations
HCLTech has introduced an innovative AI-driven operations solution designed to help companies upgrade their mainframe systems. This advanced offering focuses on boosting operational efficiency and meeting the urgent need for modernization. By combining cutting-edge AI agents with professional human oversight, HCLTech aims to optimize the management of vital systems, embodying a forward-thinking strategy for operational intelligence and system management.
AI search gains 3-fold influence over traditional search in shopping decisions: McKinsey
McKinsey's survey, conducted in June 2026, covered around 21,000 consumers across 11 markets. It found that 56 per cent of consumers had used standalone AI chat or search tools for shopping in the previous three months, compared with 27 per cent who had used AI shopping assistants operated by retailers.
Millennials lead AI shopping adoption in India at 84%, ahead of Gen Z: McKinsey
In India, Millennials are leading the adoption of artificial intelligence for shopping, with 84 percent using AI tools. Gen Z follows closely at 74 percent, showcasing a growing trend across age groups. The report reveals that India ranks second globally for AI shopping adoption, with 76 percent of consumers utilizing such tools. Trust in AI-powered shopping is notably high in India, with 87 percent expressing confidence in AI tools.
When my AI bargains with your AI: The next great bazaar may be where our agents haggle for milliseconds
AI agents are evolving from simple task execution to negotiating on behalf of users in commerce. These agents can analyze data efficiently, enabling faster negotiations and potentially better deals. Businesses are already preparing for AI-to-AI negotiations, which may reshape the landscape of commerce. While this could benefit consumers, it may also create disparities based on the sophistication of agents.
Nvidia, Meta deepen AI ties with $3 billion investment deal
In a groundbreaking partnership, Nvidia and Meta have committed to advancing the Muse AI assistant, with a substantial $3 billion investment from Nvidia to enhance functionality and reduce expenses. This AI assistant is vital to Meta's strategic vision of achieving unprecedented personal superintelligence for its users. The collaboration may also explore the implementation of Nvidia's OpenShell framework for safer software distributions.
AI is changing online ads, and brands have a new fight on their hands: Report
As consumers increasingly use AI for product discovery and comparisons, brands must adjust their advertising strategies. Research shows that many users still conduct further research after receiving AI recommendations from standalone apps. Advertising platforms are introducing new tools to engage consumers within existing searches and social media.
Global PE giant L Catterton invests in Glance as AI reshapes shopping
L Catterton, which manages about $40 billion in equity capital, said the deal reflects its research into how AI is reshaping product discovery and purchasing. The firm plans to support Glance’s expansion, particularly in the U.S., drawing on its operating expertise and global network.
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