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Netflix’s hit TV series, “Squid Game,” is about to hit our mobile devices and gaming screens soon!
The announcement was made by Mike Verdu, vice president of games at Netflix, through a blog post published on the streaming platform’s website on Dec. 14. According to the post, a video game where players can compete inside the thrilling world of “Squid Game” will be coming soon.
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Aside from “Squid Game,” the executive also announced other Netflix titles that will be launched in the gaming feature, including “Money Heist: Ultimate Choice” and “Rebel Moon.”
Other exciting games to look forward to for next year are adventure game “Sonic Mania Plus,” “Cozy Grove” sequel “Cozy Grove: Camp Spirit,” fashion game “FashionVerse,” action game “Katana Zero,” and heist game “Chicken Run: Eggstraction.” These developments were also previously announced in Netflix’s Geeked Week 2023.
The upcoming games will be available to all Netflix subscribers without in-app purchases, extra fees, or in-game ads.
The soon-to-be-launched games will arrive two years after Netflix Games’ launch in 2021. Currently, the platform has 40 games in store, including the recently released “Grand Theft Auto Trilogy: The Definitive Edition,” “Too Hot to Handle: Love is a Game,” and “The Queen’s Gambit Chess,” among others.
By the end of 2023, the platform also aims to have 86 games available for its subscribers.
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Shenzhen has been all the rage these past years, especially with new visas and visa-free travel options opening up for foreign nationals from around the world. Thanks to China’s advanced high-speed rail system, travel has never been more accessible. Always wanted to visit the breathtaking mountains that inspired the alien planet of the blockbuster film Avatar? You can get there in a few hours by train! But there is one common concern amongst tourists (and even Hong Kong locals), which is setting up a payment system to match China’s rapid digitalization over the past decades, as most of the country is now cashless.
While some of us are Alipay veterans thanks to our Taobao shopping addictions, others are hesitant or confused about joining a new payment platform to facilitate their travels. Enter Visa: here to deliver seamless payment solutions across the country; using any Visa card or Apple Pay, you are now able to pay with credit card across the country.
As part of Visa’s global strategic partnership with Shanghai Summer, The Beat Asia team was privileged to join the global digital payment platform to experience just how easy it is to pay with a credit card in China! Whether taking public transportation, hailing a cab, or paying at a restaurant or shop, you can do it all with a Visa card.
Things to Do in Shanghai
Courtesy of Visa Hong Kong
Shanghai’s Former French Concession
The first morning of our trip, we ventured out to the former French Concession in Shanghai, a historic and culturally rich neighborhood filled with unique local shops in heritage buildings. A popular tourist destination, many of the shops are fitted with Visa payment terminals to facilitate smooth guest shopping experiences.
Courtesy of Visa Hong Kong
One such shop was Short Sentence, the concept store home to local fashion brand MINI LIVING, which also participated in Shanghai Fashion Week, another Visa-sponsored initiative, this October.
Helmed by lead designer Guan Lin, the brand currently has a collaboration with Pixar film Toy Story and features an equally colorful and whimsical collection. At first sight, it may be hard to imagine the playful pieces in one’s wardrobe, but as we tried on different pieces, each was like a statement item essential to anyone’s capsule collection. From gorgeously vibrant dresses and a signature denim collection to cheeky accessories, to custom footwear, Short Sentence has it all.
Photo by The Beat AsiaCourtesy of Visa Hong Kong
Our visit was also our first opportunity to try out the shop’s newly fitted Visa payment terminal (in matching Visa blue, of course), and we can confirm payments are as easy as they are back home. Staff are welcoming and fully trained to receive credit card payments — a completely seamless experience!
Location: Short Sentence, No. 290 Anfu Rd., Jing’An District, Shanghai
Courtesy of Visa Hong KongCourtesy of Visa Hong Kong
As we walked along the streets of the neighborhood, we were struck by how green the city is, with residents and tourists taking advantage of the bicycle rental facilities available on almost every roadside and lush green trees shading the streets.
In addition to local brands, creative collectives can be found as well, like Looknow & Flow, which stocks a curated streetwear selection, plushies, and collectibles like Jellycat and irresistibly cute local brand so far so good (SFSG)!
Photo by The Beat AsiaPhoto by The Beat Asia
We could not resist SFSG’s signature fluffy dog keychains, side collection of adorable felines, and other merch like notebooks and tumblers. The store was like a never-ending treasure trove that we’ve bookmarked for our next visit to Shanghai.
Our next stop took us to Perfumer H, and what we loved was how walkable the French Concession was. With streets lined with preloved fashion retailers and unique F&B concepts, this is a neighborhood you’ll want to plan to spend a day in.
Photo by The Beat AsiaPhoto by The Beat Asia
Perfumer H is a British brand founded by perfume maker Lyn Harris, with their Shanghai flagship discreetly tucked into Lane 845 on Julu Road. The store has three stories, two of which are gallery floors, as well as a verdant garden terrace.
Each of their 45 bespoke scents is the epitome of quiet elegance, with a perfume for every person. We were drawn to earthy fragrances: Rain Wood, Charcoal, Salt, and Moss.
Courtesy of Visa Hong Kong
In addition to perfumes, the brand also stocks candles and incense, perfect to ornament your home with one of their signature scents — that last touch that will make every guest inquire, "Your house smells so good; what is that?"
At Perfumer H, we encountered a second gateway from Visa — the universal payment method of China — a QR code. Those who may find QR codes a little daunting don’t have to worry, however, as it won’t try to direct to an app like Alipay or WeChat Pay. Instead, you will be taken to a secure browser to key in your payment amount (think PayMe), which you will then be able to settle with your Visa card connected to your Apple Wallet!
Location: Perfumer H, No. 5, Lane 845 Julu Road, Jing’an District, Shanghai
Exploring Zhangyuan
Courtesy of Visa Hong Kong
Continuing our shopping adventure,we ventured to Zhangyuan, a revitalized old walled city dating back to 1882, located near our hotel in Jing'an. The neighborhood is home to the concept stores of many international luxury fashion brands, with its signature red brick buildings offering a unique and picturesque setting for flagships.
Many aesthetic cafés and eateries line the cultural complex located on West Nanjing Road, making it a literal feast for the senses.
Courtesy of Visa Hong KongCourtesy of Visa Hong Kong
During our visit, we also learned about Shanghai’s attractive tax refund policies for overseas travelers (including those visiting from Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan). Zhangyuan has a dedicated tax refund service counter offering "refunds-upon-purchase" to visitors. Skip the hassle of long airport queues and reclaim your taxes after a productive shopping spree. Just make sure to save all the receipts from your purchases.
Location: Tax Refund Service Counter, Zhangyuan W8, Jing’an District, Shanghai
Sightseeing in Pudong, Shanghai
Gustave Courbet, The Wounded Man 1844-1854 | Courtesy of Visa Hong Kong
Crossing Shanghai’s iconic Huangpu River,we arrived at Pudong, the city’s Central Business District (CBD), which is also home to Visa’s new headquarters in Shanghai IFC.
Our first stop was the Museum of Art Pudong (MAP)to visit their ongoing Paths to Modernity exhibit featuring over 100 masterpieces from the Musée d'Orsay in Paris, including works from Vincent van Gogh, Monet, Cézanne, Édouard Manet, Edgar Degas, Renoir, and many other modern masters.
We embarked on an immersive guided tour walking through Academicism to Realism and Naturalism, through Impressionism and Neo-Impressionism, to Post-Impressionism in the immaculately curated exhibition. The grandeur of the museum was a fitting sight for the masterpieces of our school textbooks, brought to life in Shanghai.
Spanning five floors, MAP is unique in that it does not house a permanent exhibition, but rather a rotating roster of regional and international programs. Although Paths to Modernity is coming to a close after an extended run on Oct. 26, 2025, you can stay tuned on MAP’s official website for their upcoming roster.
Location: Museum of Art Pudong, No. 2777, Binjiang Avenue, Pudong New Area, Shanghai
Courtesy of Visa Hong KongCourtesy of Visa Hong Kong
Another site to visit inPudong District is The Expo Cultural Park Greenhouse Garden,located in the Shanghai Expo Culture Park (formerly the Shanghai World Expo Park),which spans two square kilometers of green spaces, including its Greenhouse Garden, dubbed Shanghai’s version of Singapore’s iconic Gardens by the Bay.
The massive indoor area impresses with its scale and is also home to some small animals and aquariums. It’s a great photo opportunity spot, so come dressed in an outfit that will stand out amidst all the green! After spending a day in the streets, the large green space offered us a refreshing breather in the garden oasis.
Location: The Expo Cultural Park Greenhouse Garden,100 Jikun Lu, Shanghai Expo Culture Park, Pudong New Area, Shanghai
Courtesy of Visa Hong Kong
Rounding out our evening, we returned to the riverside to embark on a scenic nighttime cruise along Huangpu River. Having witnessed Shanghai’s iconic skyline from the rooftop of MAP, we were excited to get a 360° panoramic look.
The scenic ride was a stunning way to take in all of Shanghai’s glowing nighttime skyline in good company, a glass of champagne in hand.
Courtesy of Visa Hong KongPhoto by The Beat Asia
Huangpu River cruises and guided tours can be booked via Klook or Trip.com, or you can hire an entire cruise privately via a local agency. We even witnessed a floating restaurant and a banquet hall on a boat, best suited for private events.
We would recommend booking a private nighttime cruise, as having the ship to yourself makes all the difference. Watching Shanghai’s glistening skyline at dusk all around us as a gentle breeze refreshed our faces from a busy outdoors was a real treat! All the little touches from the cruise’s hospitality team made for a comfortable and elevated experience.
Where to Stay
Photo from Website/Jing An Shangri-La
Westayed at the Jing An Shangri-La, conveniently located near the French Concession and Zhangyuan shopping areas and just a short drive over to Pudong. The luxury 5-star hotel is a statement of classical elegance, standing out amongst its culturally rich surroundings. The hotel boasts beautiful views we could not get enough of, especially from our room on the 53rd floor, as well as its Horizon Club Lounge situated on the 55th floor, offering floor-to-ceiling panoramic views of Shanghai as we took our breakfast in the morning.
The excellent location, premium service, luxurious room, and indulgent dining options had us wishing to prolong our trip towards the end of our stay. The hotel comes highly recommended, offering classic Shangri-La hospitality.
Location: Jing An Shangri-La, 1218 Middle Yan'an Road, Jing An Kerry Centre, West Nanjing Road, Shanghai
What to Eat
Courtesy of Visa Hong Kong
An unmissable delicacy during your visit is Shanghai hairy crab. Having eagerly anticipated our chance to enjoy the popular autumnal dish, we were excited (and hungry) when we arrived at Chenglongxing - Yifeng Garden, a premium dining establishment situated in a historical building, where we were treated to a decadent 24-dish spread.
Photo by The Beat AsiaPhoto by The Beat Asia
Serving signature Shanghainese cuisine, many of the courses featured hairy crab, like their irresistible Crab Xiao Long Bao, Crab Served with River Shrimp, Stir-Fried Crab Noodles, and Crab Vermicelli Claypot. Other delicacies included Chili Stir-Fried Pork, Steamed Grouper, and their Steamed Lily Bulbs with Spanish Ham.
But finally, it was time for the moment we had been waiting for: our servers rolled in a cart of steamed Shanghai hairy crab and took to deshelling and presenting each guest with a delicious crab spread.
Photo by The Beat AsiaPhoto by The Beat Asia
The freshness of the crab had us savoring every bite, from the smooth taste of its meat to the burst of flavor of the rich roe that left us craving more.
One of our favorite dining destinations during our visit to the Museum of Art Pudong took us to its rooftop, where an elegant restaurant glowed against the backdrop of the Shanghai Bund at dusk.
ROOF P.M. Modern Dining serves modern European cuisine curated by Chefs Giovianni Young and Paul-Arthur Berlan. During the day, the restaurant serves as a museum café and converts into a high-end dining establishment at night.
Photo by The Beat Asia
We dined on a four-course menu that evening, starting with a Ham Salad, followed by the creative presentation of the classic Chinese Lotus Soup with Pork Rib. For our main, we enjoyed the beautifully plated and prepared Seared Cod Fish, a refreshing and flavorful dish. And for dessert, we were delighted to be served a Visa-themed Chocolate Noisette, a sweet finish to our evening.
Boasting 270° views of Shanghai’s skyline from its floor-to-ceiling windows, the restaurant is a great way to immerse yourself in the heart of the city while treating your palate.
Another memorable dining spot was our visit to popular Beijing restaurant Tidu. The venue’s grand interior is cave-like in its dark, muted tones but with natural and elegant accents highlighting different zones of the space, including its main dining area, private dining rooms, bar, and garden.
We were served an indulgent 18-course menu featuring modern Peking flavors beautifully presented and plated. Highlights include the Fermented Bean Curd & Red Wine Foie Gras, Sweet Bean Sauce Braised Fat-Free Pig Trotters, Signature Sea Cucumber & Pork Skin Aspic, Boston Lobster, and Typhoon Shelter Tiger Crab (it was hard to pick a favorite, but deep down, we knew the one menu item we would not be forgetting).
Photo by The Beat Asia
Arriving to serve us tableside, we were treated to an irresistible show of Tidu’s signature Qiantan Five-Flavor Roast Duck prepared and plated in two versions.
Courtesy of Visa Hong KongCourtesy of Visa Hong Kong
The Peking duck’s crispy skin was carefully sliced into bite-sized portions, topped with caviar that was such a perfect combination of crunch and melt-in-your-mouth flavor. The neatly wrapped classic pancakes were also too delicious for us not to go back for seconds.
For those who are fans of Peking cuisine, we would recommend Tidu as the answer to everything you are looking for!
Navigating Shanghai was also a breeze thanks to the different payment gateways set up by Visa! Although the most common transaction method is still via QR code scanning, you now have the option to pay by credit card on Shanghai’s metro or even designated taxis.
Photo from Website/MaglevCourtesy of Visa Hong Kong
Even when you arrive at Shanghai Pudong International Airport, you can take the Shanghai Maglev Train (SMT)into the city by simply tapping your Visa card at the payment gates. The first commercial high-speed train in the world, the magnetic levitating train takes you from the airport to central Pudong in just eight minutes. From there, you can easily transfer to Shanghai’s subway or grab a cab to your next destination.
Being able to pay with your Visa card is also great because you do not have to worry about buying another transportation card or reloading your balance on an app, offering a seamless airport transportation experience.
The Shanghai Metro is also easy to navigate and highly accessible, and can take you throughout the city as well as to connecting high-speed rail stations if you are transferring cities or planning a day trip in another town.
Photo by The Beat AsiaPhoto by The Beat Asia
Shanghai is home to multiple taxi operators, but one of their major cab businesses is Dazhong, which has now entered into a partnership with Visa to facilitate credit card payments. Fares start from an affordable RMB19 (around HK$21 or US$3), and drivers are equipped with an app on which you can tap your card for easy payment!
In addition to hailing cabs from the street, you can book a Dazhong taxi via their service hotline at +86-21-96822.
Photo by The Beat Asia
We also had the chance to visit Visa’s new Shanghai office in Shanghai IFC and were greeted by their adorable mascot Vee in multiple fluffy and giant versions! Their office has amazing views of the entire city, including a full viewpoint of Shanghai’s iconic Oriental Pearl TV Tower.
Photo by The Beat AsiaCourtesy of Visa Hong Kong
We received a warm welcome from Visa representatives Mr. Xiaolong Yin, General Manager of Visa Mainland China,and Ms. Shirley Yu, Group General Manager of Visa Greater China, as they shared more about Visa’s vision to spread not only payment accessibility but smart financial solutions that grow with you as you progress through life.
Additionally, Visa is taking part in more lifestyle initiatives like their sponsorship of the highly-anticipated return of the MAMA Awards to Hong Kong happening from Nov. 28 to 29, 2025, which includes exclusive presale offers and benefits for Visa cardholders and other exciting regional activations. Additionally, Visa is the title sponsor of BLACKPINK’s return to Hong Kong at Kai Tak Stadium in January 2026!
Following Visa’s active participation in the F1 China Grand Prix | Shanghai International Circuit and Shanghai Fashion Week, we’re excited to see what’s more in store for the brand.
Final Thoughts
Courtesy of Visa Hong Kong
We loved Shanghai! China’s financial center seamlessly fuses culture and old school charm with cutting-edge technology, and it was great to witness the accessibility of the city firsthand. A three-day trip did not offer as much time to explore as we would prefer, and we will definitely be back (especially for the shopping).
For more information about Visa Hong Kong’s upcoming initiatives, stay tuned on their website, Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn.
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Last Oct. 7, 2025, the 2025 YouTube Works Awards Southeast Asia celebrated some of the most innovative and effective advertising campaigns of the year, highlighting the platform's unmatched reach and its thriving ecosystem of creators and communities.
According to new Kantar research presented during the ceremony, YouTube continues to reign as the leading platform for streaming video content — reaching more viewers daily than its closest competitors, including TikTok and Meta. Beyond its massive audience, the platform also proves its strength in performance. In fact, YouTube drives more than double the ROI of linear TV, generating 4.1 times higher returns in Indonesia, 2.9 times in Thailand, and 2.3 times in Vietnam. It also outperformed other social platforms, with 1.5 times the ROI in Indonesia, 1.6 times in Thailand, and 1.2 times in Vietnam.
In the Philippines, YouTube stands out as one of the most effective media channels for advertisers. A study commissioned by Nielsen found that it delivers 3.86 times higher ROI compared to linear TV, and 2.71 times more than other digital platforms, underscoring how the platform has become a key player in the country’s evolving digital landscape.
Some of the region’s most influential voices are also on YouTube. According to research from Kantar and MTM, YouTube creators are trusted by 90% of viewers in the Philippines, 88% in Thailand, and 86% in Indonesia, figures that are above the regional average. This level of trust from brands, paired with YouTube’s unmatched reach, creates the perfect mix for meaningful connections and real business impact.
Ceremony Highlights
Beyond the numbers, the 2025 YouTube Works Awards shined a spotlight on the creative teams behind Southeast Asia’s most effective campaigns. What they all have in common? A smart use of humor and a dash of quirkiness that made their messages both memorable and impossible to scroll past.
Winning the Grand Prix and the Multiformat Storytelling awards is Thailand’s Dutchie Yogurt from Dutch Mill for the Fight For Thais’ Gut campaign. The short film told the story of its 40-year legacy in the country by blending thrilling martial arts action with the signature Thai humor that’s propelled the country’s advertising industry to viral status on the internet. This strategy became the most-watched content in Dutchie’s history, achieving a 95% view-through rate and an 11+% increase in sales.
Fintech brand GCash also made history by being the first-ever brand from the Philippines to win at the YouTube Works Awards SEA. TheirGSafeTayo: Entertainingly Serious campaign effectively communicated a serious advocacy message through the lens of humor, which helped convey an important cybersecurity and vigilance message.
Launched at the height of SMS spoofing scams that hit over 600,000 Filipinos in 2024, GSafeTayo saw GCash team up with YouTube for a powerful multiformat campaign. At its heart was a 40-second video featuring Tita Marnie, whose meme-worthy reaction to almost getting scammed made the message hit home. The campaign also rolled out a three-part exposé showing how scams work and how users can stay safe. It earned over 70 million views, boosting brand trust by 14%, and cutting SMS phishing reports by 80% within its first month.
“We've always known that to combat the very serious threat of cybercrime, we needed a creative approach that would truly resonate with Filipinos. By using humor and relatability on YouTube, a platform that would enable us to reach so many Filipinos, we were able to turn a critical message about cybersecurity into something memorable and impactful,” said Neil Trinidad, GCash Chief Marketing Officer.
GCash | Courtesy of YouTube
“This award is a testament to our team's collaboration, creativity, and commitment to protecting our users. I’ve always believed that as marketers, our greatest influence goes beyond the campaigns we create, but in the lives that we help transform. It proves that with the right strategy using YouTube as the most effective and widely viewed medium, we can make a serious topic like online safety both engaging and effective, helping to keep our users safe from scams,” he added.
Additionally, the best ad agencies in the region were also honored with Mindshare from Indonesia winning the Media Agency of the Year, Ogilvy Group Thailand for Creative Agency of the Year,and Little Red Ants Vietnam as Specialty Agency of the Year.
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Chinese financial services corporation, UnionPay International (UPI), has recently expanded acceptance across Europe, making its services available in over 90% of European countries and regions.
UnionPay has steadily expanded its presence across Europe, with its cards now accepted at over 80% of merchants equipped with POS terminals. More than six million merchants also support UnionPay QuickPass contactless payments, making it easy to pay for everyday experiences like dining out, staying at hotels, shopping at supermarkets, exploring tourist attractions, or even hopping on public transport. Since its launch in 2005, QuickPass transactions have more than doubled in several European markets, reflecting the growing number of users and merchants embracing the service. This expansion is creating a truly seamless payment environment across the continent, offering both local residents and international travelers a secure and effortless way to pay wherever they go.
Several major retail and hospitality companies in the region have also integrated UnionPay into their services, including European airport duty-free stores, France’s Galeries Lafayette, the UK’s Harrods, Spain’s El Corte Inglés, and nine Value Retail premium outlets. You can also pay with your UnionPay cards or via mobile wallet at several dining experiences, from fine dining restaurants to fast-food chains and coffee shops. Looking for a luxurious stay? You can make bookings for rooms and other experiences with UnionPay at several major hotel group properties, including Four Seasons, Shangri-La, and Park Hyatt. UnionPay cardholders can also make payments at over 110,000 UK merchants through a partnership with Dojo.
Photo from Facebook/UnionPay International
UnionPay makes exploring Europe smoother than ever. Its services are seamlessly integrated into urban and intercity transport networks, as well as car rental services in travel hotspots like Germany, Spain, and Italy, perfect for those spontaneous road trips. Travelers can also use UnionPay to book tickets to some of Europe’s most iconic attractions, including the London Eye, Disneyland Paris, and Barcelona’s breathtaking Sagrada Família. Even everyday moments are covered, with around 40,000 Selecta vending machines across the continent now accepting UnionPay, making it easy to grab a quick drink or snack on the go.
UnionPay has also issued over one million cards across 13 countries, including Serbia, Italy, and Spain. Residents in Spain, France, Germany, and other European Economic Area (EEA) markets can apply for PecunPay UnionPay cards via the “Yi An” app, which can be used across UnionPay's European network and 183 countries and regions worldwide. It’s also compatible with Weixin Pay, a.k.a. WeChat Pay, and Alipay for QR code transactions, providing convenient payments for European travelers to China.
With visa-free agreements and more direct flights, China is fast becoming a top destination for European travelers. UPI is making the journey even smoother through its “Project Excellence,” which enhances payment convenience for inbound visitors. From seamless card acceptance across China to instant tax refunds on UnionPay cards in gateway cities like Beijing, Guangzhou, Chengdu, and Nanjing, travelers can enjoy a hassle-free experience from arrival to departure.
This strong payment network also benefits European merchants, attracting a growing number of global UnionPay cardholders, including Chinese tourists, with exclusive offers and partnerships. Beyond Europe, hundreds of millions of UnionPay cards are now issued in 83 countries and regions, powering cross-border travel and commerce worldwide, making transactions easier and more convenient all around.
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CNN is set to premiere the sixth season of “Tech for Good,” with a special feature on youth innovators shaping the future with nature-inspired robotics.
As technology advances, more researchers are turning to nature, specifically the behaviors and movements of animals, to inspire the future of robot design. CNN anchor and correspondent Kristie Lu Stout took the time to visit students who are leading the way in this extraordinary venture of blending nature with technology, packing it in 30-minute specials that highlight each of their inventions.
This season’s highlights include a visit to Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology (DGIST), one of South Korea’s leading robotic universities, who is creating robots that mimic animal locomotion. Their bio-inspired robots were inspired by land, sea, and air animals, allowing them to produce incredible designs such as a robotic snake for search and rescue operations, a soft robotic fish to monitor underwater ecosystems, and a remote-controlled bird that could one day carry out aerial surveys.
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In the UK, students from the University of Oxford are building tech to study the “natural algorithms” that govern how hawks move and make decisions while flying at high speeds. CNN spoke with PhD candidate Henry Cerbone from the Oxford Flight Group, a world-leading research team dedicated to the study of winged creatures, to find out how studying birds of prey could one day make robots faster and more efficient. They also met with PhD candidate, Davina Thandi, who is exploring how the shape of birds’ wings changes during flight, which can be applied in the development of advanced aerial robotics.
Lastly, students at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) are developing tech that addresses environmental challenges throughrobotic insects that could one day assist with tasks such as artificial pollination, infrastructure inspection, and environmental monitoring. CNN met with PhD student, Yi-Hsuan "Nemo" Hsiao, who wrote the computer algorithm for mimicking insect behavior.
Courtesy of CNNCourtesy of CNN
The upcoming season will also be introducing an all-new segment called “Where Are They Now?,”which will revisit inventions and technologies featured in previous seasons. One of which is the “miller-spinner” technology by Stanford University Assistant Professor Renee Zhao, which was highlighted in 2022, and was believed by researchers to have the potential to improve the treatment of several ailments, such as strokes, heart attacks, pulmonary embolisms, and other clot-related conditions.
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Nearly half of small and mid-sized businesses (SMBs) shut down within six months of suffering a cyberattack. That staggering statistic highlights how devastating weak IT strategies can be. Yet many companies still treat IT as an afterthought, going for the cheapest option available.
The problem is that low-cost IT support often skips the proactive measures that prevent crises in the first place. Over time, these hidden gaps show up as costly downtime, rushed fixes, security scares, and missed growth opportunities.
If you’re wondering whether your IT is helping or hurting your business, here are five warning signs it’s costing more than it should.
1. You Only Hear from IT When Something Breaks
If your IT team only shows up when a problem has already caused disruption, you’re relying on the outdated “break-fix” model. This approach may feel cost-effective upfront, but the truth is that downtime drains your resources. Every system failure leads to lost sales, delayed projects, frustrated customers, and employees unable to perform their jobs. Even when fixes are applied, they’re often rushed, leaving room for errors and recurring issues.
Instead of waiting for disasters, a proactive IT partner like Uniserve IT Solutions monitors systems around the clock. With early detection, they resolve up to 80% of problems before they escalate, helping you minimize downtime and keep operations steady.
2. Your IT Costs Are Unclear or Unstable
When IT invoices fluctuate wildly or a provider’s pricing seems suspiciously cheap, it’s usually a warning sign. Many bargain IT firms cut corners by skipping essential services like routine backups, patching, and system updates. While this looks affordable at first glance, it can leave your business exposed to disasters. A ransomware attack, data loss, or compliance violation could cost far more than the “savings” ever provided. Worse still, unpredictable billing makes it impossible to plan your IT budget with confidence.
A reliable and trusted IT partner takes the guesswork out of technology expenses with transparent, flat-rate plans. This means your business gets 24/7 monitoring, proactive care, and predictable pricing all rolled into one.
3. Staff Lose Time to Avoidable Tech Hassles
It’s easy to underestimate how much productivity is lost when employees waste time wrestling with avoidable tech frustrations. Something as small as a printer that won’t connect, constant application crashes, or waiting days for support tickets to be resolved can snowball into hours of wasted effort. Multiply those delays across your workforce, and you’re looking at thousands of dollars lost each year, not to mention lowered morale. Over time, this tech fatigue can also affect employee retention.
With a remote helpdesk, the equation changes. Skilled technicians resolve most requests in under an hour, empowering your team to stay focused on their jobs and driving business growth.
4. You’ve Had Security Incidents, or Don’t Know Your Weak Spots
Cybercriminals don’t just target large corporations. They target SMBs too, as they tend to have weaker defenses. If you’ve already faced security scares like phishing attempts, malware, or unauthorized logins, that’s a clear signal your IT support isn’t doing enough. What's even more concerning is if you don't know (or they don't tell you) where your vulnerabilities lie at all. Without visibility, your business could be exposed without realizing it.
Trusted IT providers like Uniserve IT Solutions provide robust managed security that includes patch management, encrypted backups, continuous monitoring, and staff training to reduce human error. By identifying and closing gaps before attackers exploit them, you safeguard both your finances and your reputation.
5. Your IT Doesn’t Grow with Your Business
As your business expands, your technology should expand with it. If your IT provider can’t adapt to new demands, the result is outdated infrastructure, sluggish performance, and costly upgrade cycles that leave you constantly behind. Being tied to rigid systems or forced to pay extra fees for every small improvement can stifle growth and limit opportunity. Instead of enabling innovation, your IT becomes a bottleneck that slows decision-making and frustrates teams.
A good IT service provider builds flexibility into every plan, offering scalable cloud services and infrastructure that evolves alongside your goals. With future-proof IT, you gain the freedom to innovate, seize opportunities, and grow without unnecessary restrictions.
What to Do Next
If these warning signs sound familiar, it may be time to re-evaluate how your business handles technology. Reactive fixes, unclear costs, and weak security aren’t just annoyances; they’re hidden drains on productivity, revenue, and long-term growth. The right IT approach should prevent problems before they happen, scale alongside your company, and give you cost predictability instead of surprise bills.
To make that shift easier, Uniserve IT Solutions offers a complimentary IT assessment that identifies vulnerabilities, inefficiencies, and growth barriers. Within 48 hours, you’ll receive a tailored report with actionable insights to strengthen your systems and align technology with your business goals — no obligations required.
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Ransomware isn’t just an IT problem anymore. For small and midsize businesses (SMBs), it’s an existential threat. According to a report from Sophos, 43% of SMBs that suffer a ransomware attack shut down within six months. And it’s not just the ransom payment that hurts. The average global cost of a ransomware incident has skyrocketed to US$5.13 million, as reported by IBM’s Cost of a Data Breach Report 2024. That figure includes lost productivity, recovery efforts, legal issues, and lasting brand damage.
SMBs are especially vulnerable because many simply don’t have enterprise-level backup systems or full-time security teams in place. Even cyber insurance isn’t a guaranteed safety net, as some policies don’t cover key losses like ransom payments or extended downtime. That leaves smaller businesses painfully exposed to the kind of hit they may not recover from.
Why Ransomware Hits SMBs So Hard They Barely Recover
When ransomware locks down a business, everything grinds to a halt. It can take weeks to get systems back online; weeks you don't have the leisure to waste when running an important business. Sectors like healthcare, legal, and manufacturing feel the pressure the hardest when this happens, as every hour they're offline can cause ripple effects to other industries.
In Hong Kong, ransomware is hitting hard across logistics, finance, and manufacturing sectors. A South China Morning Post report from 2024 revealed that median ransom demands are around US$695,000, while average recovery costs hit US$237,500. For most SMBs, that’s not just a hit, it’s a knockout.
Then there’s the legal fallout. When sensitive data gets exposed, you’re looking at compliance headaches and lawsuits. On top of that, losing customer trust can take years (if not, forever) to rebuild.
Meet Uniserve IT Solutions: Your Cyber Defense + Financial Backup
Real protection goes way beyond installing an antivirus. You need both rock-solid security and a smart financial strategy to keep your business afloat. This is where Uniserve IT Solutions comes in.
They equip businesses with Sophos Managed Detection and Response (MDR), an AI-driven, 24/7 threat-hunting system that blocks ransomware before it can encrypt anything. It also ensures you’ve got secure, immutable backups, so even if attackers get in, you don’t need to pay to get your data back.
But tech is only half the equation. Uniserve also audits your cyber insurance policy to flag any loopholes or vague language that could cost you later. That way, if something does go wrong, you’re set up to get the payout and support you need — fast.
3 Must-Dos to Protect Your Business
Let’s face it: It’s no longer about if ransomware strikes, it’s when. It's best to act now to reduce risks and increase the chances of survival. Here are three steps every SMB should take to stay ready:
Accept You’re a Target - Cybercriminals use automated tools to find vulnerable systems, so don't think that your business is “too small to hack.” Thinking otherwise is one of the biggest mistakes you can make. Anybody can be a target.
Pair MDR with Cyber Insurance - Tech and insurance should go hand in hand. With Uniserve’s bundled solution, you get Sophos MDR for real-time protection plus insurance support to make sure your policy covers the most likely threats.
Test Your Recovery Plan Often - Backups are great ifthey actually work when you need them. Uniserve helps you run regular recovery drills so you know exactly how fast you can bounce back if disaster strikes.
With 43% of SMBs shutting down within six months of a ransomware hit, the risk is real. But so is the solution. By combining round-the-clock threat detection, smarter insurance coverage, and hands-on recovery planning, your business can stay resilient even in the worst-case scenario.
Uniserve IT Solutions makes it simple by offering all-in-one protection that’s both technical and financial.
Don’t wait for a breach to find out you’re unprepared. Book your free IT Assessment today and take the first step toward a safer, stronger future.
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When it comes to cybercrime, small and mid-sized businesses (SMBs) are often seen as easy targets. While massive corporate breaches dominate the headlines, nearly 50% of all cyberattacks are aimed at SMBs. Why? Because hackers know that smaller businesses typically lack strong security measures that will get them into trouble. Many are running outdated software, have no dedicated IT staff, or assume they're too insignificant to be noticed. But that very mindset makes them vulnerable and appealing.
Why Hackers See SMBs as Easy Targets
Hackers prefer easy wins. As SMBs tend to be less fortified (yet still hold valuable data), they're a low-risk target for cybercrime with high rewards because they:
Use outdated technology – Many small businesses still use legacy software or systems that haven’t been patched, making it easier for attackers to find and exploit weaknesses.
Lack cyber expertise – Without trained cybersecurity professionals, threats may go unnoticed for long periods, giving attackers more time to inflict damage.
Have a false sense of safety – SMBs often underestimate their attractiveness to hackers. This leads to skipped security basics like backups, antivirus protection, or multi-factor authentication.
Have limited spending power – Tight financial resources often mean cybersecurity gets pushed down the priority list. But ignoring security can ultimately cost far more.
Highly likely store sensitive data with weak protection – Even small companies store confidential data such as customer information and payment details. Without strong defenses, this information is ripe for the taking.
What’s at Stake?
The cost of a breach can be devastating. Beyond paying ransoms and dealing with system outages, the long-term impact can include lost customer trust, legal challenges, and a steep recovery bill. For many small businesses, one serious attack could be enough to shut down operations for good.
And relying on cyber insurance isn’t a guarantee either. Insurers may refuse claims if it’s determined that the incident could have been prevented with basic safeguards in place. This leaves businesses fully responsible for the damages they could have avoided.
Cybersecurity isn’t optional; it’s essential. Every single day spent unprotected increases the chance of becoming a victim, so doing nothing is the riskiest action of all.
How to Safeguard Your Business Now
While no business is immune to cyber threats, SMBs can take decisive action to defend themselves. A good example is hiring a trusted IT solutions provider like Uniserve IT Solutions.
With their SMB Cybersecurity Bundle, you get a purpose-built protection designed to close the gaps hackers love to exploit without breaking the bank. Here are some of the services your business can get:
Email Security Filtering – Block malicious emails, phishing attempts, and scam links before they ever reach your team. This reduces the chance of user mistakes and keeps attackers at bay.
Device-Level Protection – Every laptop, desktop, and mobile device is covered with endpoint security, shielding your operations from malware and ransomware attacks.
Cyber Insurance Consulting – Navigate cybersecurity insurance policies to ensure your business is properly covered. This helps avoid costly mistakes and claim denials with expert guidance.
Managed IT Services – From system updates to performance monitoring, you can keep your IT environment healthy and secure by minimizing downtime and strengthening your overall defenses.
Could You Be the Next Target?
Statistically, small businesses are far more likely to be hit by cyberattacks than large corporations. If you’re unsure about your current security setup, now is the time to act.
Start by taking a quick IT MSP Readiness Quiz to find out if your existing defenses are enough, or if it’s time to bring in expert help.
Don't let what you've worked hard for burn to the ground. No buts.
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In a time when efficiency is critical and burnout is a growing concern, companies are increasingly exploring artificial intelligence (AI) to help teams get more done with less effort. Among the most practical tools emerging in this space is Microsoft Copilot, a powerful AI assistant embedded within Microsoft 365. Designed to streamline workflows and support day-to-day tasks, Copilot is becoming a go-to solution for boosting office productivity.
From writing content and analyzing spreadsheets to managing communication and meetings, Microsoft Copilot helps employees stay focused and efficient, without the need to learn new software. Here's how it works across different platforms in the Microsoft ecosystem.
AI at Work: Microsoft Copilot in Action
Unlike many standalone AI tools, Copilot is built directly into Microsoft’s suite of business apps. This tight integration ensures a smooth user experience and allows teams to leverage AI without disrupting existing workflows.
Word: Whether you're creating proposals or editing reports, Copilot can generate content based on prompts, rephrase paragraphs, summarize lengthy text, and ensure consistency in tone and clarity.
Excel: For number-heavy tasks, Copilot simplifies complex processes. It can write advanced formulas, spot trends, generate visualizations, and explain data insights in plain language, which help save hours of manual work.
PowerPoint: Instead of building slide decks from scratch, users can rely on Copilot to turn notes or outlines into polished presentations. It also recommends visual styles, layout improvements, and speaker notes.
Outlook: Email management becomes easier with Copilot drafting replies, condensing long threads, and suggesting meeting times based on your availability.
Teams: Stay on top of meetings and collaboration with automatic summaries, task highlights, and easy access to relevant past conversations or shared files.
How Copilot Stands Out Among AI Tools
With a growing number of AI assistants available, Microsoft Copilot sets itself apart by being natively embedded into the digital tools many offices already use. Here’s a quick comparison with other notable AI platforms:
ChatGPT (OpenAI): Known for its adaptability and broad knowledge, ChatGPT is ideal for idea generation and Q&A. However, it functions outside traditional productivity apps unless integrated through additional tools or plugins.
Google Gemini: Formerly Bard, Gemini supports Google Workspace apps and offers similar AI capabilities. It’s a strong choice for Google-based teams, but its features don’t yet match the depth Copilot offers in apps like Excel or PowerPoint.
Notion AI: Great for content planning and note-taking, Notion AI helps with brainstorming and internal documentation. Its functionality, however, is more limited when applied to formal business outputs.
Claude by Anthropic: Built for clear, thoughtful communication, Claude is especially strong in processing long documents and reviewing complex text. Yet, without integration into business suites, it’s less suited for real-time productivity tasks.
GrammarlyGO: This tool expands on Grammarly’s editing capabilities by offering content suggestions and tone adjustments. While useful for writing tasks, its scope is narrower than Copilot’s multi-application functionality.
As AI tools continue to reshape the workplace, the ability to work more efficiently and effectively is becoming a reality for businesses of all sizes. However, unlocking the full benefits of these technologies require thoughtful implementation, proper integration, and ongoing support, particularly from a customer-focused IT services and solutions company.
Organizations looking to maximize productivity with AI should focus on aligning these tools with their existing workflows, training teams to use them effectively, and continuously adapting as the technology evolves. With the right strategy and support from experts, AI can be a powerful catalyst for streamlined operations, better decision-making, and long-term growth.
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There’s nothing like a good game to pass the time. But the thing with good games is they sneak up on you until it’s more than just a pastime. This seemed to be the risk when we downloaded “Love and Deepspace” — the mobile otome (story-based game for women) game everyone has been talking about.
We had initially planned to sneak a peek, read a few chapters, and check out the stunning graphics making rounds across social media, but what we didn’t expect was to be utterly immersed in an impressively crafted fictional world with compelling characters.
Published by Singapore-based InFold Games — an overseas brand of the Chinese game developer, Papergames — “Love and Deepspace” is a 3D visual novel game that dares to blend the adrenaline of intergalactic warfare with the intimacy of human connection. It’s a dating simulator where you can explore a sci-fi world, interact with various characters, and yes, find love in the virtual world. In this world where the stars stretch endlessly and danger lurks in the shadows of deep space, the game puts you inside a cinematic romance where every heartbeat counts, whether you’re battling space monsters or checking off romantic firsts with one of the mysterious partners.
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The marketing for the game has been off the charts for months since releasing early last year, showcasing impressive graphics featuring first-person 3D views of intimate interactions with gorgeous male love interests. That alone was enough for the fan in us to hit download despite its mammoth size (3.89 GB), but the reader in us stayed for the lore.
Now the numbers have begun to make sense. No wonder it has accumulated a global revenue of $500 million on the Google Play and Apple App stores, with markets outside of China accounting for 40% of the total revenue, based on data from analytics firm Sensor Tower (as of March 2025).
But does the game truly deliver a love story that goes beyond space and time? After a month of playing the game, here’s what we think makes “Love and Deepspace” a hit among its players, and let’s determine if it's worth your time or just another pretty game floating in the void.
What You See is What You Get (and MORE)
The moment you sign up and enter the game, you’re immediately drawn to the clean and futuristic interface as you customize the MC (main character) before heading into the game world. Customization was highly specific and detailed, as you’re more than able to change your virtual character’s clothes and hair color, but their overall appearance as well, from the shape of their face to the tone of their voice.
“Love and Deepspace” first gained attention for its stunning graphics, and the fact holds as we explored the systems and read the first few chapters, which launched the player into the world through easy-to-read narration, fully-voiced characters, and visually-appealing background designs.
Photo from Google Play/Love and DeepspacePhoto from Google Play/Love and Deepspace
In the story, you’re playing as the newest member of the Hunters Association, where your job is to protect the citizens of Linkon City from the threat of “Wanderers.” As you go through the chapters, you get to meet an array of characters, including the potential love interests.
If you’re a frequent otome player, one thing you’ll immediately notice is that there are only three love interests (LI) at the start of the game, which is unusual as most dating sims would have at least four or more. Along the way, you’ll meet Xavier, a mysterious fellow Deepspace Hunter; Zayne, the brilliant cardiac surgeon; and Rafayel, a flirty and enigmatic artist.
The story unfolds in such a way that you get to experience moments with all the LIs. There are no branch routes, so everyone follows the same storyline and interacts with the same characters. We believe this made the story more whole and easier to navigate, as you don’t have to worry about missing details or skipping through routes in the hopes of raising your Affinity (relationship status levels with the love interests) with your chosen partner. Raising them requires a different gameplay, which is explained in the next section of this review.
The chapters eventually branch out as the game updates. Last year, they already added two more LIs to the roster: the tough boss man of Onychinus, Sylus, and childhood friend Caleb, with a sixth one rumored to be released sometime this year once the new chapters are unveiled.
Another interesting tidbit about the characters is that they all have certain powers called an Evol. The MC is an evolver herself and has the resonance evol, which allows her to enhance another Evolver’s evol. The evols of the LIs range from fire and ice to gravity and energy manipulation, which makes the gameplay more exciting.
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Overall, what you see is what you get with this game. Those beautiful characters and toe-curling romantic interactions in the advertisements? You’ll get them all and more as you go through the game with some additional surprises along the way.
Our only issue was that the homepage could get a little overwhelming for beginners, as there are so many features on the page. Although the main story button is clearly labeled, there are also other features like Date and Battle with each of them having their own set of rules and features. The game does fairly well in explaining everything, however, and provides demonstrations and practice rounds for battles.
Hunter by Day, Lover by Night
Speaking of battles, if other otome games have branch routes where you follow a specific storyline to develop your relationship with your chosen partner, “Love and Deepspace” uses battles. Yup, you heard that right. You will have to fight for your love in this.
Who would have thought this romance visual novel game would have a comprehensive battle system? The game boasts real-time combat with a range of weapons and skill combinations based on the LI you choose to bring into the battlefield and the outfits they wear, which carry a particular set of skills. You can build teams to your specific preferences and use weapons and battle companions that can fight better against certain enemies.
Character cards are the foundation of your teams and the most coveted things players acquire in the game. These cards can be pulled from the Wish pool, which can be acquired through either paid or earned Empyrean tickets. Character cards come in six color variations called Stellacrum, and players will have to match these colors with a particular battle to win. These cards also need to be leveled up regularly so you can get the chance to battle stronger enemies.
Photo from Love and Deepspace/Game ScreenshotPhoto from Love and Deepspace/Game Screenshot
If you’re not into the whole combat thing, don’t worry. So long as you level up and match the Stellacrum and meet the minimum level requirements, you should be good! There’s an auto mode that allows your character to battle it out, and you’ll just have to sit there and watch them win.
But if you are into battle, then you’ll enjoy the range of battle modes this game offers, such as Bounty and Core Hunts, which is where you can win resources that are used to upgrade your teams, and Hunter Contest and Deepspace Trials, where you get to upgrade your skills.
The character's cards also hold special features and rewards, and range from 3 to 5-star cards. 4-star cards have audio story features, which usually narrate fully-voiced short stories like a radio drama, while 5-star cards contain video narratives or romantic monologues called "Secret Times." The language features can also be changed to your preferred language. Voice-overs are currently available in English, Japanese, Korean, Simplified Chinese, and Traditional Chinese. And let me just tell you, the voice acting is top tier!
Photo from Love and Deepspace/Game Screenshot
Limited Character Cards also come and go within specific periods called “banner events,” which feature special cards. Birthday and Myth banners tend to be the most popular ones, as the former gives you a chance to celebrate their respective birthdays through mini games and a special video narrative, while the latter allows you to look into their past lives and acquire combat companions.
Oh, did we mention that all the LIs have known you in their past lives, and the two of you have been torn apart one way or another? Well, these myth cards tell you their story, and with the reincarnation theme woven into the storyline, you can expect a lot of romantic tension, pining, and heartache. Talk about Love and Deep-Depression.
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Cards and battles are only half of the game, however. The other half being a blend of narrative and mini-games, which raises your affinity with the LIs and from where you can gain rewards to level up cards, acquire outfits, and even purchase tickets for the Wish pool.
You can also read Anecdotes, which gives some backstory for each of the characters, play Kitty Cards with the LIs, and even take photos with them. On the home page, you can interact with them, and they can give responses based on prompts. The developers even recently added a period tracker as part of the “Remind Me” feature, which allows your virtual boyfriends to take care of you (well, through words) during that time of the month. As you level up, you receive phone and video calls, as well as text message conversations and social media posts from the LIs.
It's a good balance of combat and romance, giving players a variety of tasks and interactions that will surely remain exciting for months to come, so long as developers continue to feature new events and chapters.
Photo from Love and Deepspace/Game Screenshot
F2P-Friendly but with a Catch
It’s important to note that “Love and Deepspace” is a Gacha game. Gacha is based on Japan’s Gashapon system, where you put a token and get a prize in return. The game operates in the same way that you can pay to collect certain packs or items.
With that in mind, is it free to play (F2P)? The honest answer is yes. Downloading the game is completely free, and you can experience all the features without spending a single dime. Most battle modes provide you with the resources needed to upgrade your cards, and you can obtain diamonds, which are one of the main currencies of the game, by completing daily tasks, reading chapters, and even listening to the audio cards for the first time.
Photo from Love and Deepspace/Game Screenshot
However, some features can only be obtained through crystals, which are paid for, such as new outfits that give you special combat skills. Most of the paid items are decorative, so we'd say the game gives a fair deal.
The challenge lies in how quickly you want to level up or if you want to acquire a certain Limited card from the Wish pool. The crystals can be converted into diamonds, which are used to buy tickets. Additionally, packs and other limited items are available for purchase, which contain resources and more tickets for more chances of pulling the character card you want within a limited banner period.
Final Verdict
“Love and Deepspace” provides players three things: a thrilling storyline, good-looking characters, and a well-paced gameplay that’s both fun and easy to navigate. It’s not like other games, which you can pay to breeze through all the chapters in one sitting. The game was cleverly designed to allow players to progress one step at a time and have them utilize all the features to get what they want. The variety of game modes also keeps the experience fresh and interesting.
The romance doesn't feel rushed either, even though they seem to fall for you from the start. From a storyteller's perspective, it makes sense considering their myth stories as they have already fallen in love with you in their past life.
The first-person perspective definitely gives a more immersive experience, and coupled with the beautiful graphics, it’s hard not to fall head over heels for your virtual lovers. Not only do they look good, but they have substance and complex character personalities with tragic back stories to match. No wonder some players have tried to make this game a reality by cos-commissioning(cosplay commissioning)or organizing events in various cities.
On top of all that, you can play it for free. So long as you complete your daily tasks, do battles, and read each chapter, you’ll be sure to rack up rewards and progress through the gameplay without needing to pay.
If you’re a fan of story-based games and a good time, give this one a shot! You can download it from theApple or Google Play stores.
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When people think about video games, first-person shooters or racing games like “Mario Kart” often come to mind where the objective is to defeat a strong enemy or acquire a particular grand prize. But there are other games in which the prize has nothing to do with shooting down monsters or reaching the finish line but rather focuses on winning a character’s affection.
Dating
simulator games
(a.k.a. dating sims) have been entertaining players and captivating audiences worldwide for years now. These games combine immersive storytelling with interactive gameplay that imitates romantic relationships. In other words, it’s a game where you "date" virtual characters (VC).
With the rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI), games have begun to change and these dating sims are at the forefront of this transformation. What began as simple text-based adventures has evolved into complex, AI-driven experiences that have enhanced character interactions, making them feel more dynamic and personalized.
In our latest explainer, we’re looking into how these games have evolved through the years and how AI is changing the game when it comes to the dating simulator genre.
From Linear Narratives to AI-Driven Experiences
It’s no surprise that traditional dating sims began in Japan in the 1980s where there was a focus on creating identifiable characters and narratives within games. If we take a look at the popular video game “Donkey Kong,” the goal has always been to “save the girl” and is implied that doing so automatically earns her affection.
This is basically what dating sims are all about. In their early years, they were heavily influenced by anime
aesthetics and storytelling, featuring scripted narratives and simple graphics. “Tokimeki Memorial” (1994) is considered to be one of the pioneers of the genre and is a game where players build relationships with high school characters. Players would navigate romantic storylines by choosing dialogue options — “choices” — to influence the narrative’s direction similar to a “choose-your-own-adventure” game. The early games often had themes of slice-of-life scenarios, comedic misunderstandings, and school romances which appealed to a niche audience.
Tokimeki Memorial | Photo from Website/fandom.com
In the 2000s, we witnessed the rise of AI and virtual companions with chatbots and AI assistants like Microsoft’s Tay and Apple’s Siri, inspiring these games to take on a new, more interactive look.
“LovePlus” (2009), a game developed by Konami for the Nintendo DS console was the first to “remember” past interactions. Various technological advancements also elevated the gaming experience through enhanced graphics, voice acting, and more intricate storylines. These gameplay improvements made it more appealing to the global audience, increasing its popularity beyond Japan.
During this time, dating sim mechanics were also integrated into other genres like role-playing games (RPGs), which added emotional depth to gameplay. Customization was also introduced, which allowed players to tailor characters and explore different romantic paths, encouraging players to be more invested in the game and play them over and over again as the storyline expands.
Today, modern AI dating simulators are taking the lead with advancements in natural language processing (NLP) similar to OpenAI’s ChatGPT and Character AI, making dating sims more immersive. Now we have virtual companions that go beyond just gaming like AI-powered chatbots. Companies like Nekojishi, Voltage Inc., and Love and Deepspace have mastered the art of blending AI with dating sim mechanics to create more realistic virtual relationships coupled with impressive visual art and storytelling.
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The Role of AI in Dating Sims
After a brief rundown of its evolution, it’s clear to see that AI has revolutionized the genre —and continues to do so, having introduced adaptive gameplay that creates authentic and responsive virtual relationships.
Back then, dating sims were limited to linear narratives with fixed dialogues and choice options, now AI has given players limitless conversation possibilities and has made interactions more personalized and genuine. Thanks to NLP, VCs can not only adapt to a player’s choices in the narrative but also their tone and preferences, thus creating an entirely unique experience for each individual. It can sometimes give you that eerie feeling that this character, whether they’re 2D or 3D, knows you. Well, they do. If you think about it, they’re retaining information from past conversations and customization settings, and then processing them to develop realistic responses and ones based on their own personalities. Reserved players may encounter more thoughtful and patient characters while outgoing ones may have virtual partners who are more adventurous or bold.
AI has also enhanced storylines to be more adaptive, branching out to more scenarios thus making the gameplay more exciting and worth investing in. This is especially popular in mobile dating sims which gives you the option to purchase “special stories” outside of the main narrative for a certain amount of coins or whatever rewards system the game has.
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Visually, AI has made dating sims more attractive with virtual characters embodying more human-like features. Visuals can also be customized based on preferences from their physical attributes to their clothing and accessories. All of these key features combined enhance user experience, reaching a point of realism that was once unimaginable with traditional dating sims.
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Benefits of AI-Powered Dating Sims
In a world where the world has become smaller with the rise of the World Wide Web and social media, recent studies
have shown causal links between the use of social media and negative effects on one’s well-being.
“What we found overall is that if you use less social media, you are actually less depressed and less lonely, meaning that the decreased social media use is what causes that qualitative shift in your well-being,” said Jordyn Young, a co-author of the study.
We’re not saying that investing in AI dating simulators can altogether cure loneliness but it does offer benefits that improve one’s emotional and mental well-being.
While AI enhances interactions and provides more personalized matchmaking, it fosters a deeper emotional connection. Conversations are more engaging as VCs can respond appropriately while embodying a personality of their own. Although it’s customized to the user’s preferences, it’s exactly this reason that they feel more attracted to them, which makes it easier to feel attached. This personalized feature also ensures that every gameplay feels fresh and unique, mimicking how one would get to know someone in the real world.
Just take a look at Tapple, one of Japan’s largest for-human dating app developers, who just released an AI dating simulator game because they noticed that younger people are growing less active in pursuing romance
and marriage — a common issue in many parts of the world today. While they’re not completely shutting down their service for meeting actual people, they’ve added “Koi Suru AI” to their service lineup in the hopes of igniting that spark for romance
again, encouraging users to form even more realistic romantic connections with actual people.
Koi Suru AI | Photo from Website/trendhunter.com
Playing AI dating sims also develops empathy, and makes people more understanding and sensitive to other people’s feelings and opinions. Much like being exposed to art like literature and theater, AI dating simulators allow us to listen and access the experiences and emotions of other people whom we might never have the chance to encounter in our daily lives. AI-powered VCs are no longer just characters made with a strict list of features, they can now adapt and evolve throughout the time you spend with them.
This platform also offers a space for intellectual engagement where people can have meaningful discussions and allows diverse interactions, breaking down barriers in terms of culture and social status.
For game developers, on the other hand, AI provides opportunities for innovative storytelling. It gives them the chance to experiment with adaptive narratives and dynamic interactions, ultimately pushing the boundaries of traditional game design. AI also streamlines the process of creating complex narratives and character designs, which in turn allows developers to produce new games more efficiently.
The Future of AI in Dating Simulators
There’s a saying that it only gets better from here, and that couldn’t be more true here. As AI advances, we believe there’s a potential for dating sims to grow and adapt more immersive and interactive features.
Virtual Reality (VR) is at the forefront of this transformation, expected to make experiences more tangible as players begin to interact with VCs in three-dimensional spaces. The integration of AI also presents the potential of going beyond romance and exploring other types of relationships such as friendship and mentorship, which could broaden its target audience.
On top of this, AI is continuously evolving and adapting, so we can expect conversations and responses to remain engaging and fresh over time.
Popular AI Dating Simulators
Want to try your hand at these AI-powered dating sims? Here are some popular applications you can try today.
Replika
This AI companion app allows users to engage in text, voice, and augmented reality interactions. You can personalize your character's background, traits, and interests as they serve as your friend, therapist, or even a romantic partner.
This app allows users to create interesting bios, analyze message exchanges, and offer feedback to enhance their dating profiles and conversations. Rizz reportedly has a large global user base of 7.5 million!
This app helps users practice relationship skills safely and in an engaging environment. Similar to most AI-driven dating sims, you can customize with unique backstories and personalities, and explore various dynamics of relationships to improve your VCs communication skills.
This AI-powered companion app is designed to foster deep and meaningful relationships, deeming itself as the “AI Companion with a Soul.” It offers voice chats, real-time selfies, and art generations. Nomi remembers user preferences and personal details, boasting a human-like memory that makes conversations more in tune and authentic, and the overall experience more immersive.
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