Matthew Miller

Seqwater Seeks Asset Management Solution to Address “Operational Constraints”

Matthew Miller on December 7, 2025

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Seqwater’s Asset Planning Overhaul

Seqwater searching for asset planning software to address "functional limitations"

Overview

Seqwater is aiming to update its existing spreadsheet-based asset management framework.
The agency oversees vast water infrastructure across South East Queensland.
The new software is intended to improve decision-making, transparency, and reporting functions.
Essential features sought after include scenario modelling, forecasting, and risk analysis.
A selection regarding the new system is anticipated by February next year.

Challenges with the Current System

Seqwater, which manages water resources in South East Queensland, relies on a spreadsheet-based approach for asset and investment strategy planning. This method demonstrates “functional limitations,” especially concerning advanced modelling, integration, and reporting abilities.

Preferred Software Attributes

The agency is looking for software that enhances decision-making and transparency. Seqwater intends to consolidate various asset categories, including catchments and recreational facilities, into a unified system. The software should provide features such as scenario modelling, forecasting, lifecycle cost analysis, risk management, and comprehensive reporting.

Future Implementation Strategies

Seqwater aims to upgrade its investment planning procedures utilizing the new software, thereby fostering consistent and informed decision-making. The authority expects to complete its evaluation by February next year.

Conclusion

Seqwater is determined to modernise its asset management frameworks, transitioning from outdated spreadsheet systems to more advanced software solutions. This transition will facilitate improved decision-making and enhance transparency throughout its operations, which encompass a wide-ranging water infrastructure network in South East Queensland. With an impending decision, Seqwater is ready to transform its asset management capacities.

Q: Why is Seqwater in search of new software?

A: Seqwater is looking to address the shortcomings of its existing spreadsheet-based system, which does not offer advanced modelling, integration, and reporting capabilities.

Q: What key features does Seqwater seek in the new software?

A: Seqwater is interested in features such as scenario modelling, forecasting, lifecycle cost analysis, risk management, and effective reporting functionalities.

Q: When is Seqwater expected to decide on the new system?

A: Seqwater intends to reach a decision by February next year.

Q: What types of assets does Seqwater oversee?

A: Seqwater manages various assets, including dams, weirs, water treatment facilities, pipelines, and other resources within South East Queensland.

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Cochlear Incorporates AI into Worldwide Contact Centre Functions

Matthew Miller on December 6, 2025

Quick Read

Cochlear incorporates AI into its Amazon Connect platform to enhance agent and call assessments.
The firm has standardised its worldwide contact centre operations across 14 nations.
AI technologies are being employed to automate assessments and optimize workforce management.
This implementation has resulted in a dramatic rise in call evaluations, escalating from 1,000 to 22,000 monthly.
Cochlear is investigating the feasibility of AI agents for managing voice calls.

Transforming Contact Centres with AI

The hearing technology pioneer based in Sydney, Cochlear, has initiated a groundbreaking journey by integrating AI features into its Amazon Connect contact centre framework. This tactical initiative aims to automate both agent and call assessments, ensuring they meet defined quality and compliance standards.

Cochlear employs AI in contact centre operations

Andy McLaughlin from Cochlear at AWS re:Invent.

Worldwide Standardisation with Amazon Connect

Two and a half years prior, Cochlear restructured its global contact centre services in 14 countries using Amazon Connect. This enabled the company to refine its offerings, which encompass business-to-business and business-to-customer communications, device assistance, orders, insurance, clinical guidance, and sales.

Andy McLaughlin, the director of IT networks and telecommunications, emphasized at the AWS re:Invent conference that the voice channel remains the preferred communication method, vital for both hearing-impaired clients and business associates.

AI-Powered Evaluations and Transcriptions

The integration also introduced call transcription functionalities, which are essential for Cochlear’s continuing AI and automation advancements. This setup is fully aligned with the company’s Salesforce CRM, granting agents rapid access to customer information through screen pops.

With a growing emphasis on Amazon’s extensive AI resources, Cochlear strives to enhance support services while reducing reliance on non-Amazon solutions, thus improving data privacy and operational efficiency.

Improved Agent and Call Evaluations

Initially, Cochlear’s evaluation capacity was constrained, with only a limited number of calls per agent assessed each month. The rollout of AI-driven evaluations has significantly boosted this figure to 22,000 evaluations monthly, indicating a remarkable advancement in performance and compliance supervision.

These evaluations employ both rule-based and generative AI to evaluate compliance and soft skills such as empathy, offering focused insights for agent education and growth.

Optimized Workforce Management

By concentrating on workforce management through forecasting, capacity planning, and scheduling (FCS), Cochlear utilizes two years of historical data within Amazon Connect. This allows for precise call volume projections and efficient agent scheduling, ensuring optimal resource utilization.

The Prospective of AI Agents

In looking forward, Cochlear is contemplating the use of AI agents for managing voice calls. Initial experiments with interactive voice response systems incorporating AI agents have shown potential, although further development is necessary to tackle integration obstacles with current IT systems.

Conclusion

Cochlear’s merger of AI into its global contact centre operations marks a pivotal advancement in boosting service efficiency and agent performance. By harnessing Amazon Connect and its AI capabilities, Cochlear has not only enhanced call evaluations but also laid the groundwork for future breakthroughs in AI-driven customer engagements.

Q&A

Q: What is the main advantage of Cochlear integrating AI into its contact centre?

A: The chief advantage is the significant rise in the quantity of call evaluations, facilitating improved tracking of agent performance and focused training.

Q: How has Amazon Connect benefitted Cochlear’s global efforts?

A: Amazon Connect has standardised call centre technology, boosted reliability, and enabled multi-language capabilities, which are critical for Cochlear’s international operations.

Q: What future intentions does Cochlear have regarding AI in its contact centres?

A: Cochlear is investigating the application of AI agents for voice call management and further enhancing workforce management through AI-backed forecasting and scheduling.

Q: In what way does AI assist Cochlear’s compliance evaluations?

A: AI automations conduct compliance evaluations by pinpointing specific words or phrases, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and company policies.

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Revealing the Antigravity A1 8K 360 Drone: Explore the Inclusions

Matthew Miller on December 6, 2025

Quick Overview

The Antigravity A1 8K 360 Drone innovates the world of aerial imagery with its 360-degree capture capability.
Highlight features consist of a sleek design, 8K video functionality, and a unique camera layout.
Offered in Australia with prices beginning at A$2,199 for the Standard Bundle.
Provides exceptional editing options after capturing, enabling footage to be reframed easily.
Includes Vision Goggles, Grip Controller, and various accessories for an engaging experience.

Antigravity A1: A Revolutionary Step in Drone Technology

The Antigravity A1 8K 360 Drone has launched, set to redefine the way aerial footage is taken. Featuring a 360-degree camera system, this drone offers users a flying experience like never before, making it almost undetectable in videos.

Superior 8K 360-Degree Capture

The drone records in 8K, granting filmmakers the ability to shape the scene post-filming. This functionality is especially useful for recording lively actions without the concern of accurate framing mid-flight.

Unboxing and Initial Thoughts

The Antigravity A1 arrives in a stylish, tool-free packaging that features a premium sling bag for convenience. Inside, you will discover the Vision Goggles, Grip Controller, a charging station, and the drone itself, all efficiently arranged.

Compact and Cutting-Edge Design

Weighing less than 249 grams, the Antigravity A1’s configuration comprises rotating arms and motorised landing gear that enhance its modern look. Equipped with top and bottom cameras and front-facing sensors, it delivers a complete 360-degree perspective.

Vision Goggles and Grip Controller

The Vision Goggles offer a pleasant viewing experience, complete with diopter adjustments and ventilation. The motion-sensitive Grip Controller elevates the flying experience, providing an instinctive way to operate the drone.

Cost and Availability

In Australia, the Antigravity A1 is available at A$2,199 for the Standard Bundle. The Explorer and Infinity Bundles are available for A$2,799 and A$2,899, respectively. This drone is marketed as a high-end product for capturing extraordinary shots.

For further details, visit https://www.antigravity.tech

Recap

The Antigravity A1 8K 360 Drone establishes a new benchmark in drone technology, delivering unparalleled versatility and innovation for creators. Its sophisticated features and compact design position it as a top choice for capturing standout aerial footage.

Q&A

Q: What distinguishes the Antigravity A1 drone?

A: The drone’s 8K 360-degree camera system facilitates after-capture editing, providing flexibility in framing and directing the footage.

Q: How does the drone’s weight influence its use in Australia?

A: With a weight of under 249 grams, it meets drone regulations, allowing for more adaptable usage.

Q: What bundles are available and their respective prices?

A: The Standard Bundle is A$2,199, the Explorer Bundle is A$2,799, and the Infinity Bundle is A$2,899.

Q: Are any accessories provided with the drone?

A: Yes, it comes with Vision Goggles, Grip Controller, several batteries, extra propellers, and a quick reader for memory cards.

NEXTDC to Create AI Campus and GPU Supercluster in Sydney

Matthew Miller on December 5, 2025

Revealing the AI Campus and GPU Supercluster in Sydney

NEXTDC introduces AI campus and GPU supercluster in Sydney

From left to right: Federal Industry and Innovation Minister Tim Ayres, OpenAI chief strategy officer Jason Kwon, and NEXTDC CEO Craig Scroggie.

Zachariah Kelly/TechBest

Quick Overview

NEXTDC plans to develop a significant AI campus in Western Sydney.
The site will include a GPU supercluster to enhance AI functions.
OpenAI’s services will be supported by this new setup.
This project is expected to generate billions in investment and create numerous jobs.
The first phase is anticipated to commence in the latter part of 2027.
This initiative aligns with Australia’s national AI strategy to improve digital competencies.

The Aspiration for Sydney’s AI Transformation

NEXTDC has revealed its intention to develop a groundbreaking AI campus and GPU supercluster at its S7 facility situated in Sydney’s Eastern Creek. This extensive initiative is intended to bolster OpenAI’s services throughout Australia, offering sovereign data governance and reliability to local clients.

Infrastructure and Financial Backing

Expected to have a capacity of 550MW, the S7 data centre is set to become a vital component of Australia’s digital progression. The project’s initial phase, scheduled for finalization by the second half of 2027, will concentrate on creating a sovereign AI facility that complies with Australia’s SOCI framework, guaranteeing superior security and robustness.

Equipping the Australian Workforce with AI

In line with the “OpenAI for Australia” initiative, this venture aims to assist Australian businesses and employees in enhancing their AI technology skills. The objective is to render 1.2 million Australian workers proficient in AI, thereby bolstering the nation’s competitive position in the global economy.

Collaborations with Leading Australian Employers

OpenAI has teamed up with prominent companies such as CBA, Coles, and Wesfarmers to promote AI proficiency and skills advancement. OpenAI Academy will provide training for employees of Coles and Wesfarmers, while CBA will extend its training programs to a million small business clients, nurturing a culture of digital trust and innovation.

Conclusion

NEXTDC’s plan to set up an AI campus and GPU supercluster in Sydney signifies a major advancement in Australia’s digital infrastructure and AI potential. With solid support and strategic partnerships, this project seeks to reshape Australia’s AI environment, generating employment, driving investments, and equipping the workforce with crucial AI abilities.

Q: What is the aim of the AI campus and GPU supercluster?

A: The AI campus and GPU supercluster are designed to enhance OpenAI’s services in Australia, providing sovereign data governance and boosting AI capabilities.

Q: When is the first phase of the S7 data centre anticipated to be finalized?

A: The first phase of the S7 data centre is expected to be completed in the latter half of 2027.

Q: How does the AI campus correspond with Australia’s national AI strategy?

A: It corresponds by focusing on upskilling 1.2 million workers and improving AI literacy, which aligns with the broader objectives of the national AI strategy.

Q: Which firms are collaborating with OpenAI on this project?

A: Firms like CBA, Coles, and Wesfarmers are collaborating with OpenAI to enhance AI competencies for their employees and small business clients.

Q: What influence will the initiative have on the Australian job market?

A: The initiative is projected to create thousands of jobs through substantial investments and enhancements in digital infrastructure.

Q: What importance does the SOCI framework hold in this initiative?

A: The SOCI framework guarantees that the AI facility adheres to high standards for security, resilience, and operational integrity.

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Samsung’s Effort to Address Triple Zero Mobile Problems Goes Back Nearly Five Years

Matthew Miller on December 5, 2025

Samsung’s Five-Year Battle with Triple Zero Mobile Challenges

Brief Overview

Nearly five years ago, Samsung started addressing triple zero mobile problems.
In 2021, software updates were released for 60 models of Samsung handsets.
Carriers restricted unpatched devices associated with fatalities during the Optus outage.
The challenge relates to VoLTE and emergency calling functionalities on TPG Telecom’s 4G network.
Telecom companies are establishing a unified database to enhance the reliability of emergency calls.

Background and Initial Efforts

The failure of Samsung mobile devices to make emergency triple zero calls has raised concerns for several years. In July 2021, Samsung initiated software updates aimed at rectifying these calling problems by ensuring compatibility with TPG Telecom’s 4G network. This initiative sought to guarantee that, even during network failures, users could reliably make emergency calls.

Samsung's five-year endeavor to resolve triple zero mobile issues

Challenges with Software Updates

In spite of the rollout of these updates, several devices did not obtain the critical patches. Consequently, carriers undertook the significant measure of blocking these unpatched Samsung devices, particularly after incidents linked to fatalities during the Optus network outage.

Technical Obstacles: VoLTE and Network Compatibility

The fundamental technical problem relates to VoLTE (Voice over LTE) capabilities. Although TPG Telecom’s 4G network began offering VoLTE support in 2015, the emergency call functions utilizing this technology were only evaluated and enabled in 2020. This lag resulted in difficulties for some older devices, notably those from Samsung, regarding emergency call routing.

Telecom Industry’s Reaction

Australian telecommunications companies, including Telstra and Optus, have reacted by informing customers of the necessity to update their devices. They have also commenced the creation of a shared database of problematic handsets to bolster the reliability of emergency call services.

Conclusion

Samsung’s continuous efforts to resolve triple zero mobile calling challenges reveal a complex interaction of software updates, network functionalities, and regulatory obstacles. Despite significant advancements, the issue highlights the critical need for thorough testing and prompt updates to ensure consumer safety.

Q&A Section

Q: Why could some Samsung devices not make emergency calls?

A: The problem originated from outdated software that did not support VoLTE emergency calls on TPG Telecom’s 4G network.

Q: What actions did Samsung take to tackle this issue?

A: Samsung issued software updates in 2021 to enable the essential network compatibility for making emergency calls.

Q: Why did carriers choose to block certain Samsung devices?

A: Devices that failed to receive the software update and were tied to emergencies during network outages were blocked to avert further incidents.

Q: How are Australian telcos enhancing emergency call services?

A: Telcos are developing a shared database of problematic devices to guarantee dependable emergency call services across networks.

Q: What is VoLTE and what effect does it have on emergency calls?

A: VoLTE, or Voice over LTE, enables voice calls over a 4G network. It impacts emergency calls by providing quicker and more reliable connections.

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