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A chapel in Switzerland has introduced an unconventional addition: an AI-powered virtual Jesus that allows visitors to engage in interactive conversations.
Pick & Scroll News
December 03, 2024
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Good morning. A chapel in Switzerland has introduced an unconventional addition: an AI-powered virtual Jesus that allows visitors to engage in interactive conversations.
Reactions have been mixed—while some users found the responses to be clichéd or inconsistent, others described the experience as "spiritual and inspiring."
Whatever side of the political spectrum you sit on, you have to admit, an AI Jesus is pretty weird.
All the headlines and more below...
AUSTRALIAN NEWS
Australia's retail sales firm for 3 months as consumer mood brightens
Australian retail sales a 17-month high in October, marking 3 consecutive months of growth, with sales reaching $36.7B, up 3.4% year-on-year. LINK
A federal decision to cease NDIS funding for sexual services has created financial challenges for scheme participants who require these services. LINK
Australian households are facing increased hardship as electricity prices rise by up to 16% and gas prices by up to 12% in FY24, despite government rebates. LINK
The RBA’s retail payments regulation review has revealed widespread concerns over surcharging practices, as Treasurer Jim Chalmers considers banning debit transaction surcharges. LINK
Australia has appointed Tesla chair Robyn Denholm to lead a comprehensive review of the country's R&D performance. LINK
The Australian government faces mounting pressure to address an "extremely severe" social housing crisis, as families endure extended stays in temporary accommodation. LINK
Australian retailers have reported strong Black Friday sales amid successful early Christmas promotions. LINK
GLOBAL NEWS
Biden’s pardon of his son pours fuel on Trump’s claims of politicised justice
Joe Biden has pardoned his son Hunter Biden for federal felony gun and tax convictions, despite previous promises not to use presidential powers for family benefits. LINK
New Zealand home prices are expected to rise by 5% over the next 2 years, as lower interest rates drive demand despite a previous 19% market correction. LINK
Generative AI systems from OpenAI, Meta and Google are significantly impacting climate change through massive energy consumption comparable to small nations. LINK
The world's top 100 defence companies have increased arms sales by 4.2% to $632B in 2023. LINK
Belgium has implemented landmark reforms granting sex workers formal employment rights, including health insurance and pensions, following its 2022 decriminalisation of sex work. LINK
COMPANY NEWS
Switch mix up blamed for mid-air tumble on Virgin flight
A Virgin Australia pilot inadvertently caused a 42-degree bank roll on a Brisbane to Melbourne flight by accidentally activating the wrong control instead of the cockpit door switch. LINK
IGA is experiencing increased foot traffic as Australian shoppers visit multiple supermarkets, including Woolworths, Coles and Aldi. LINK
Woolworths distribution centres face delivery blockages as over 1,500 United Workers Union members continue their indefinite strike in Melbourne. LINK
Google's search dominance is under threat as younger users shift to AI-driven platforms and competitors, with its US search ad market share projected to drop below 50% by 2025. LINK
Uber has received Supreme Court approval for a $271.8M settlement with over 8,000 taxi drivers in Australia. LINK
Metcash has reported flat first-half profit of $141.8M despite an 8.1% increase in group sales to $8.47B. LINK
Telstra has acquired Boost Mobile for $140M. LINK
Employment Hero faces scrutiny over its Global Gathering events amid concerns about inappropriate behaviour and impacts on staff. LINK
Northern Star has acquired De Grey Mining for $5B, becoming Australia's largest ASX-listed gold producer. LINK
Unilever has announced plans to sell its food brands worth $1.6B to focus on streamlining the company's European food business. LINK
ONE MORE SCROLL
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BRAINTEASER
Triple jump
We have a triple dose of brainteasers to start your morning. Can you get 3 from 3?
What can you catch but not throw?
What is so fragile that saying its name breaks it?
What starts with an "e", ends with an "e", but only contains one letter?
Answers below
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