JapanNext challenges the market with an affordable 5K monitor, delivering high resolution and color accuracy at a low price point.

The Fast Company Impact Council is a private membership community of influential leaders, experts, executives, and entrepreneurs who share their insights with our audience. Members pay annual membership dues for access to peer learning and thought leadership opportunities, events and more.Customer experience is at a tipping point. Companies are struggling to see results from AI, digital transformation, and personalization. But lets be real: Most companies arent connecting the dots. Consumers want seamless, human-like engagement, but too often theyre met with fragmented systems and half-baked AI solutions.The good news? The gap between what customers expect and what brands deliver is finally starting to closebut only for the companies willing to do the hard work. This isnt about throwing bots at every problem or chasing shiny new tools. Its about integrating the right technologies, driving measurable outcomes, and putting the customer experience at the center of every decision.If youre ready to leave good enough behind and turn customer experience (CX) into your strongest competitive advantage, heres are five trends you need to know.Trend 1: Bridge the AI perception gapOver the last two years, consumer attitudes toward AI have markedly shifted. Research from LivePerson shows that in 2023, only 50% of consumers felt positive about using AI to interact with brands, compared to 90% of brands that embraced it. By 2024, consumer sentiment rose to 63%, signaling a closing gap.This evolution represents more than a shift in sentimentits a window of opportunity. Brands that effectively integrate AI to enhance, rather than replace, human interactions are succeeding in building trust and delivering value. To capitalize, leaders must focus on using AI to create meaningful customer outcomes, like personalization at scale, proactive engagement, and actionable insights. The takeaway is clear: AI adoption should not just be about cutting costs; if the CX is right, it should be efficient while enhancing consumer experiences.Trend 2: Move from systems of record to systems of actionTraditional CX platforms served as data repositoriessystems of record that lacked the capability to drive real-time actions. In 2025, the paradigm has shifted. Systems of actionintegrated frameworks that unify AI and human capabilities to orchestrate, automate, and personalize customer interactions across all touchpointsenable businesses to translate data into insights and transform insights into immediate, measurable actions.These capabilities allow brands to go beyond passive data collection, using AI-driven analytics and automation to anticipate customer needs and deliver proactive engagement. For instance, integrating data streams across CRM, voice, email, and chat creates a unified view of the customer journey, breaking down organizational silos to serve customers more effectively.The key is interoperability. Brands must avoid rip and replace approaches that disrupt existing systems. Instead, investing in platforms that integrate seamlessly with legacy tools can create a cohesive ecosystem, driving efficiency and better customer outcomes.Trend 3: Personalization at scaleThe demand for hyperpersonalized experiences is transforming CX strategies. Consumers no longer tolerate fragmented interactionsthey expect seamless, consistent engagement across all touchpoints. And meeting their expectations is worth it: At LivePerson, we find that brands that effectively leverage AI to blend automation with human empathy (through use of solutions such as proactive messaging or intelligent routing) report higher satisfaction scores and increased loyalty.To achieve this, brands must:Connect digital and human interactions cohesively.Use AI-powered tools to predict customer needs and recommend next best actions.Embed personalization deeply into every stage of the customer journey, from acquisition to retention.Trend 4: CX as a strategic growth driverCX has outgrown its traditional role as a support function. Its now a strategic lever for achieving business outcomes, from revenue growth to operational efficiency. Leaders must reframe CX as a company-wide capability that drives differentiation and long-term loyalty.This involves:Customer-first metrics: Shift from siloed departmental key performance indicators to metrics like customer lifetime value and satisfaction across the entire journey.Reimagined cost centers: Transform support functions into profit centers through smart automation and efficient self-service options.Cross-functional alignment: Enable seamless collaboration between marketing, sales, and service teams by integrating shared data and insights.Trend 5: Find true AI partnershipsIn a crowded AI vendor market, its essential to choose partners that deliver real ROI. Avoid overpromises like building a billion bots or replacing humans entirely. Instead, prioritize partnerships that:Offer proven use cases and measurable results.Focus on enhancing human and machine collaboration.Provide flexibility and openness to integrate with your existing systems. For example, brands using LivePerson Copilot benefit from tools that amplify agent productivity and enable real-time, data-informed customer engagement.The path forward2025 is a pivotal year for CX. As the lines between digital and human interactions blur, brands that embrace the following principles will lead the pack:Be human-centric: Let AI augment, not replace, human connections.Integrate relentlessly: Invest in platforms that bridge legacy systems and new capabilities.Focus on outcomes: Use CX to drive measurable business impactnot just operational efficiency.By focusing on these strategies, businesses can not only meet, but exceed customer expectations, turning CX into their most powerful competitive advantage.John Sabino is CEO of LivePerson.

A painting by street artistBanksywith an environmental message and an estimate of up to 5 million pounds ($6.3 million) is going up for auction, with some of the proceeds helping victims of the Los Angeles wildfires.Sothebys auction house said Tuesday that Crude Oil (Vettriano) is being sold in London next month from the collection of Mark Hoppus, bassist with California skate-punk bandBlink-182, who sees Banksy as a kindred spirit.Hoppus said he was drawn to the subversion, humor and intelligence of Banksys work and the similarities between skateboarding, punk rock and art.I feel like street art and punk rock have the same core, Hoppus said. The left-out and overlooked making their own reality. Just go make art. Its the same spirit. And Ive loved art and especially street art ever since realizing that.Crude Oil (Vettriano) is part of a 2005 series of works in which Banksy put a satirical spin on famous paintings withering Vincent van Goghs Sunflowers and smashing the diner window in Edward Hoppers Nighthawks. The artist said his aim was to show that the real damage done to our environment is not done by graffiti writers and drunken teenagers, but by big business.The work going under the hammer is based on The Singing Butler, a painting by Scottish artist Jack Vettriano showing a couple in evening dress dancing on a beach as servants proffer sheltering umbrellas. Banksy has added a sinking oil liner and two figures lugging a barrel of toxic waste.We loved this painting since the moment we saw it, said Hoppus, who bought the artwork with his wife, Skye Everly, in 2011. He said the painting unmistakably Banksy, but different has hung in the familys homes in London and Los Angeles.Hoppus said he would use the proceeds of the sale to buy work by upcoming artists. Some will go to the California Fire Foundation, Childrens Hospital Los Angeles and Cedars Sinai Hematology Oncology Research.Banksy, who has never confirmed his full identity, began his career spray-painting buildings in Bristol, England, and has become one of the worlds best-known artists. His mischievous and often satirical images include two male police officers kissing, armed riot police with yellow smiley faces and a chimpanzee with a sign bearing the words, Laugh now, but one day Ill be in charge.Several of his works have sold for multiple millions at auction.The recordis almost 18.6 million pounds ($25.4 million at the time) paid at Sothebys in October 2021 for Love is in the Bin an image of a girl with a balloon that partially self-destructed during an auction three years earlier thanks to a shredder hidden in the frame.Crude Oil (Vettriano) is on display at Sothebys in New York until Thursday and in London Feb. 26-March 4.Jill Lawless, Associated Press

I grew up on Pingu. As a kid still learning how to talk, Pingu connected with me on an emotional, non-verbal level. I didnt speak penguinese but I understood everything and the adorable claymation penguin was the highlight of my day (along with mom, who would watch each episode with me). Almost 4 decades after it first premiered on TV, Pingu finally gets its own LEGO set thanks to a LEGO builder BrickArtisan 24639.The MOC (My Own Creation) was designed as a part of a LEGO challenge titled 90s Throwback, which seems highly fitting since Pingu (and even Mr. Bean) were such a core part of our generations TV culture growing up. Both non-verbal, they resonated with different people across multiple cultures and countries, conveying what words and language often could not. Or should I say, could noot noot!Designer: BrickArtisan24639BrickArtisan24639s Pingus Playful Adventures is exactly the kind of build that makes you want to clear off a shelf for a proper display. It perfectly captures Pingus stubby body, round beak, and cheeky demeanor, all while staying true to the characters signature charm. The set recreates a small fragment of Pingus icy world in a way that feels both playful and authentic, with him standing ahead of the little sled he pulls his sister Pinga on (I was today years old when I found out the little sister was called Pinga). Theres even a frozen pondbecause lets be honest, Pingus antics wouldnt be complete without at least one accidental slip into the water.The magic of this LEGO build lies in the details. Pingus flippers are slightly curved, giving him that classic wings out, ready for trouble stance. Youve got interchangeable eyes as well as a beak go for the normal beak, or instead pop the iconic noot noot beak on for more dramatic impact. The sled is simple yet functional, a callback to those countless episodes where Pingu would haul Pinga around, only to inevitably crash in a pile of laughter.Building a character as expressive as Pingu in LEGO form is no easy task, but the design captures his personality through subtle shaping and smart part usage. His round body is made up of curved slopes and tiles, while his signature black-and-white coloring is seamlessly integrated without unnecessary gaps. The eyesarguably the most important part of any LEGO character buildare placed perfectly to give him that mischievous, up-to-no-good stare.Voting on this particular LEGO challenge hasnt started yet, although its already seen over 270 entries from the broader LEGO community. Other notable builds include a recreation of the Magic School Bus, Bill Nyes Science Lab, the Simpsons living room, Blues Clues, and even Spongebob Squarepants! Official judging ends in 17 days, following which regular users can cast in votes for their favorite MOCs.The post This LEGO Pingu Set is So Adorable, Youll Want to Noot Noot with Joy first appeared on Yanko Design.

Dubai officials have unveiled an ambitious project to construct what they claim will be the tallest resort in the world, dubbed Therme Dubai. This remarkable new development will feature a 100-meter (328-ft) tall attraction incorporating waterfalls, swimming pools, and the largest indoor botanical gardens globally. Therme Dubai is being crafted by the renowned US architectural firm Diller Scofidio + Renfro. Situated near the One Zaabeel skyscraper, the resort will afford views of the iconic Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world.Designer: Diller Scofidio + RenfroIn the renderings, the tower structure stands as the centerpiece of the resort project, featuring three waterfalls, each measuring 18 meters (60 feet) in height. An elevator or staircase is expected to be installed for access to the top. The entire structure will be enclosed in a glazed shell, maintaining a comfortable temperature regardless of the weather and giving it a uniquely futuristic look. Therme Dubai will also boast a play area, waterslides, and various entertainment facilities. Emphasizing wellness, the resort will offer swimming pools, mineral pools, steam rooms, and natural treatment options.Government officials have announced that Therme Dubai will feature the worlds largest indoor botanical garden, which will support an impressive collection of over 200 plant species sourced from various regions around the globe. This ambitious botanical showcase aims to offer a lush, verdant escape, while also highlighting the diverse natural beauty found in different parts of the world.Officials have also indicated a commitment to energy efficiency in the design and operation of the complex. Such a massive project cannot be truly called sustainable, but it does display aclear intention to incorporate measures that reduce its substantial energy consumption. By integrating energy-saving technologies and thoughtful design choices, the project seeks to minimize its environmental impact while still providing a luxurious and modern experience for visitors.The buildings design embodies sustainable engineering principles, leveraging cutting-edge technologies for water treatment, heating, and cooling, said the governments press release. The resort will recycle 90% of the water used in its thermal pools, while 80% of the fresh air and cooling needs will be met through clean energy sources. Additionally, the project will serve as a cultural hub, hosting innovative and immersive art from cities across the globe.The construction of the Therme Dubai will start next year, and it is expected to be completed in 2028. This development is a component of a broader initiative aimed at significantly enhancing the quality of life for Dubais residents by 2033. The ongoing efforts include transforming the city into a more pedestrian-friendly environment.The post Dubai Is Set To Build The Worlds Tallest Resort With Three Waterfalls & Massive Botanical Gardens first appeared on Yanko Design.

Can stuffed animals, rose petals, and injections of an Elon Muskapproved dissociative drug help Silicon Valley leaders out of a rut? These women say yes.

Did bureaucrats in the US plot to cut the crypto industry out of the banking system? An investigation begins.

Humane, which marketed its Ai Pin as the next big thing after smartphones, had raised $240 million from investors, including OpenAIs Sam Altman. The pin will be discontinued.

The Lemokey L5 HE 8K is a mechanical keyboard aimed at gamers that uses magnetic switches. This results in a keyboard that is brightly colored, but highly customizable for typists.Lemokey L5 HE 8K magnetic keyboardOne of the more recent breakthroughs in the mechanical keyboard industry is in switch technology. With the introduction of magnetic switches, this has opened up a whole new world of customizations for end users.We have covered a few keyboards using such switches in the past, but the Lemokey L5 HE 8K is the first to pass our desks that firmly takes aim at gaming. That is because Lemokey is effectively the gaming arm of Keychron, the well-known keyboard producer. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

Brazilian regulator CADE is holding a public hearing on February 19 to discuss Apple and Google and their competitive digital market ecosystems.App Store regulation continuesAn antitrust complaint was filed against Apple in 2022 by Brazilian regulator Conselho Administrativo de Defesa Economica, or CADE. After an investigation and a bad ruling for Apple, an unreasonable implementation timeline was proposed and quickly overturned.While the regulator waits for its next official court date, it has set up a public hearing to discuss matters around regulating Apple and Google's digital marketplaces. The notice was initially reported by MacMagazine and shared by 9to5Mac. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums