Launching Australia’s Initial V2G Subscription Service

Origin Energy, in partnership with BYD and StarCharge, has initiated Australia’s groundbreaking vehicle-to-grid (V2G) electric vehicle (EV) subscription pilot. This cutting-edge service combines a bi-directional charger with free home charging.

Quick Overview

• Origin Energy collaborates with BYD and StarCharge to introduce Australia’s inaugural V2G subscription pilot.
• The pilot features a bi-directional charger and complimentary home charging.
• Aims for 50 participants starting in 2026; expressions of interest are currently accepted.
• Bundled with the BYD Atto 3 SUV and the StarCharge V2G Halo charger.
• Subscribers gain access to Origin’s Virtual Power Plant for automated charging management.
• Possible savings of up to A$2,500 compared to fuel expenses.
• Flexible monthly subscriptions available starting below A$800 each month.

Comprehending Vehicle-to-Grid Charging

Vehicle-to-grid technology enables electric vehicles to act as portable batteries. By charging during off-peak times, such as sunny afternoons, EVs can send surplus energy back to the grid during peak hours, earning credits and diminishing fossil fuel dependency. This benefits both personal energy bills and the overall national energy system.

“Vehicle-to-grid charging represents a transformative shift that has the potential to accelerate the EV market in Australia by enabling EV drivers to return electricity to the grid from their vehicle and receive compensation for it. We are thrilled to spearhead this innovative technology with the introduction of this pioneering vehicle-to-grid package that simplifies access to the advantages of free charging for drivers.” Chau Le, General Manager, E-mobility, Origin.

Essential Features of the V2G Package

Automated Complimentary Home Charging

Origin’s advanced technology oversees the charging process, supplying up to 320kWh of free energy each month, adequate for average Australian driving demands.

Two-Way Power Flow

Charge your EV utilizing the grid or solar energy and send surplus energy back during peak hours, transforming your EV into a lucrative grid resource.

Flexible Subscription Benefits

Month-to-month subscriptions provide flexibility without long-term commitments, incorporating FBT exemptions via salary packaging, currently assisting over 1,600 Origin EV users.

Limited Trial Participation

The trial is available to only 50 customers in 2026. Interested candidates are encouraged to express their interest now to secure a spot on the waitlist and participate in shaping the future of V2G in Australia.

Automated Financial Benefits

Origin’s Virtual Power Plant streamlines the entire operation, stabilizing the grid and lessening dependence on fossil fuels during high demand periods while rewarding EV owners.

“The ideology of V2G and its implications for our Australian clientele aligns seamlessly with our mission to deliver ‘innovation for an improved life’ and to ‘cool the earth by 1 degree’. BYD is eager to collaborate with Origin to advance this technology in Australia, redefining Electric Vehicle ownership and illuminating that an Electric Vehicle encompasses more than just transportation.”Sajid Hasan, Chief Product Officer, BYD Australia.

“Vehicles are evolving beyond mere components of the transport network – with EVs and bi-directional charging technology, they are becoming integral to the energy network. Through V2G, every vehicle turns into a mobile energy resource. We are excited to contribute to this partnership with Origin and BYD to hasten the uptake of V2G technology in Australia.” Kouki Xiang, CEO, StarCharge APAC.

Accessibility

Origin is currently inviting expressions of interest for the trial, set to commence in 2026. The trial is confined to 50 participants, with specific criteria for eligibility. For further details, visit Origin Energy’s V2G Bundle Trial Page.

Conclusion

The launch of Australia’s first vehicle-to-grid subscription service by Origin Energy signifies a major advancement in the electric vehicle landscape. By converting EVs into dynamic energy resources, this initiative not only grants economic advantages to users but also promotes a more sustainable energy infrastructure across the country.

Q: What is the main advantage of V2G technology?

A:

V2G technology permits electric vehicles to transfer stored energy back to the grid, lessening reliance on fossil fuels while providing drivers with financial incentives.

Q: How can interested participants engage in the trial?

A:

Individuals may express their interest in the trial by accessing the Origin Energy website and submitting their details for consideration.

Q: What are the financial advantages of enrolling in the V2G subscription?

A:

Subscribers can save as much as A$2,500 per year in comparison to fuel expenses, in addition to enjoying the benefits of automated, complimentary home charging.

Q: What are the eligibility requirements for the trial?

A:

Specific eligibility criteria exist, and further information is accessible on the Origin Energy website. The trial is capped at 50 participants in 2026.

Q: Which vehicle and charger are part of the package?

A:

The package includes the BYD Atto 3 SUV paired with the StarCharge V2G Halo bi-directional charger.

Q: How does V2G technology influence the national energy grid?

A:

V2G technology enhances the grid by supplying additional energy during peak demand periods, thereby decreasing the necessity for fossil fuel-based power generation.

Brief Overview

• CBA unveils Lumos, an AI-driven process for cloud application transition.
• Lumos is set to move 20-30 applications each quarter.
• AI agents facilitate the transition, minimizing time and resources needed.
• Partnership with AWS ProServe to improve migration framework.
• Targeting modernization of 370 outdated applications.

Transforming Cloud Migration with AI

CBA has introduced a multi-agent system known as ‘Lumos’ to optimize the readiness and migration of applications to the cloud. This AI-centric strategy seeks to convert the challenging endeavor of cloud migration into a more feasible undertaking, enabling the bank to transfer 20-30 applications each quarter.

CBA’s Ash Moollan.

Engineering-Focused Migration Strategy

General Manager of Cloud Acceleration Ash Moollan provided insights at an AWS financial services symposium, emphasizing the engineering-focused strategy that redefines application migration with AI and agent technology. This partnership with AWS’s ProServe intends to tailor the AWS migration framework to better suit CBA’s needs, allowing for increased migration capacities.

AI Agents Central to Lumos

Lumos utilizes AI agents to manage various phases of the migration workflow, from gathering requirements to code adaptation and UI testing. Agents summarize discussions, evaluate codebases, and create cybersecurity documentation, guaranteeing accuracy and efficiency in the workflow. A human oversight mechanism ensures quality assurance and additional refinement.

Addressing Obstacles and Streamlining Workflows

CBA encountered multiple challenges, such as disorganized documentation and protracted cloud readiness assessments. Lumos confronts these issues by implementing AI-driven solutions that streamline operations. Moollan also alluded to ongoing enhancements, including a shift from Pydantic to Amazon Bedrock’s AgentCore for improved orchestration and management of extensive legacy codebases.

Conclusion

CBA’s Lumos signifies a major advancement in cloud application migration, utilizing cutting-edge AI technology to simplify and expedite the process. Through collaboration with AWS and a commitment to ongoing enhancements, CBA aims to modernize its legacy applications in an effective and efficient manner.

Q: What is Lumos?

A: Lumos is a multi-agent AI workflow created by CBA to optimize the application migration process to the cloud.

Q: How many applications does CBA intend to migrate with Lumos?

A: CBA seeks to migrate 20-30 applications every quarter using Lumos.

Q: What function do AI agents serve in Lumos?

A: AI agents oversee various stages of the migration process, such as requirements gathering, code evaluation, and documentation creation, with human supervision for quality assurance.

Q: In what ways is CBA refining the Lumos workflow?

A: Refinements include switching to Amazon Bedrock’s AgentCore for enhanced orchestration and boosting Lumos’s capability to manage large legacy codebases.

Quick Read

• Microsoft introduces Gaming Copilot, an AI assistant aimed at Windows PC gamers.
• Provides real-time advice and customized suggestions to improve gameplay experiences.
• Voice-enabled functionality allows players to stay engaged without distractions.
• Available at no cost for users aged 18 and over, utilizing Xbox account information for personalized guidance.
• Works flawlessly with the Xbox PC app, with mobile compatibility on the horizon.
• Plans for future rollout to Xbox consoles and new handheld gaming devices.

Voice Mode

Engage with Gaming Copilot using natural voice prompts, ideal for critical moments when typing is impractical. On PC, press the “Push to Talk” option for immediate questions or switch to “Mini Mode” for subtle conversations that don’t obstruct your view. Mobile users will gain microphone capabilities in the Xbox app starting in October, ensuring uninterrupted support.

In-Game Assistance

Having difficulty with a challenging quest or need insights on enemies? Gaming Copilot analyzes your gameplay to offer tips on NPC storylines, the best character builds, or tactics without giving away spoilers. It also monitors your achievements, guiding you toward completion and transforming potential hurdles into gratifying victories. This feature excels in fast-paced games where every moment counts.

Recommendations and History

Based on your gaming history and favorite genres, the AI recommends new titles to keep your collection lively. It tracks session information for seamless recaps, allowing you to continue across devices without any hiccups. The more you engage, the more refined its recommendations become, crafting a uniquely tailored experience.

Microsoft intends to launch Gaming Copilot for Xbox consoles and new handheld devices including the ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X on October 16. The beta version is currently accessible on PC via the Game Bar (Windows key + G), with mobile support rolling out for iOS and Android next month. Available worldwide (excluding mainland China), it is set to evolve based on user feedback, enhancing its intelligence and usability.

This goes beyond just being a chatbot—it revolutionizes our interaction with beloved games. Initial users are raving about the time saved, and with no charge to test it, there’s every reason to engage. As the technology progresses, anticipate Gaming Copilot to manage intricate requests like multiplayer coordination or detailed story explorations with ease.

For further details, visit Xbox Support – https://support.xbox.com/en-us/help/games-apps/xbox-ai/gaming-copilot-faq

Summary

Microsoft’s Gaming Copilot aims to reshape the gaming experience by delivering instantaneous assistance and personalized suggestions, fully integrated into the Xbox environment. With voice-activated capabilities and plans for future expansion, it is set to enhance engagement and efficiency in gaming.

Q: What is Gaming Copilot?

A: Gaming Copilot is an AI-driven assistant from Microsoft that offers real-time support and personalized recommendations to elevate the gaming experience for Windows PC players.

Q: How does the voice mode work?

A: Voice mode enables players to utilize natural speech commands to interact with Gaming Copilot, simplifying the process of receiving help without needing to type. On PC, players can activate the “Push to Talk” feature or choose “Mini Mode” for unobtrusive communication.

Q: What type of in-game assistance does it provide?

A: Gaming Copilot provides tips on NPC narratives, ideal builds, strategies, and tracks achievements to assist players in overcoming challenges and progressing smoothly through their games.

Q: Is Gaming Copilot available on mobile?

A: Mobile functionality for Gaming Copilot is set to launch in October, granting microphone access through the Xbox app for both iOS and Android users.

Q: Will it be available on Xbox consoles?

A: Yes, Microsoft aims to extend Gaming Copilot to Xbox consoles and upcoming handheld devices such as the ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X starting October 16.

Q: Is there a cost to use Gaming Copilot?

A: Gaming Copilot is complimentary for users aged 18 and older, requiring merely the latest Xbox PC app for access.

• Optus faced a 13-hour interruption of Triple Zero services due to a firewall enhancement.
• The interruption stemmed from a misconfigured firewall, which went unnoticed initially.
• Optus did not recognize the problem until later, owing to insufficient alarms and monitoring.
• Federal communications minister Anika Wells reprimanded Optus for slow communication.
• Optus intends to perform an internal review and appoint an independent monitor.
• The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) will likewise conduct an investigation.

Optus Firewall Enhancement Results in Triple Zero Disruption

Firewall Misconfiguration: The Core Issue

Optus CEO Stephen Rue confirmed that a standard firewall enhancement at 12.30am resulted in a 13-hour failure of Triple Zero calls. The problem was linked to a misconfiguration of the firewall, which wasn’t identified by their telemetry systems. Rue mentioned that while typical call volumes remained unaffected, the monitoring of emergency calls was not included in the system checks.

Delayed Reaction: Need for Enhancements

The telecommunications company became aware of the problem only after customer reports emerged, and it took 13 hours for Optus to fully grasp the extent of the outage. After receiving customer feedback, Optus reverted the firewall updates and reinstated services. Rue acknowledged that the management of initial reports fell short of expectations, and the delay in escalating these reports represented a major oversight.

Government Response and Responsibility

Federal communications minister Anika Wells criticized Optus for the sluggish notification process, highlighting that both federal and state governments were alerted late. She stressed the necessity for Optus to investigate why alarms and testing mechanisms failed to identify the outage swiftly. Optus has accepted full accountability and is initiating an internal review, while external probes by ACMA and other entities are expected.

Future Outlook: Preventative Strategies

In light of the incident, Optus plans to designate an independent monitor to analyze the outage and guarantee that similar problems are avoided in the future. The telecommunications company also seeks to act on recommendations from the prior 2023 incident to enhance communication for public and emergency services during outages.

Summary

Optus endured a major interruption of its Triple Zero service due to a misconfigured firewall during a standard upgrade. The company’s slow response and absence of prompt communication have attracted criticism from government officials. Optus is initiating an internal review and cooperating with external investigations to enhance its emergency call management systems.

Q: What triggered the Optus outage?

A: The outage was triggered by a firewall misconfiguration during a standard upgrade.

Q: What was the duration of the Triple Zero service outage?

A: The outage persisted for 13 hours before being resolved.

Q: What caused the delay in Optus’s response to the outage?

A: The delay occurred due to a lack of alarms and monitoring for emergency call failures, resulting in a sluggish response to identifying and rectifying the issue.

Q: What measures is Optus implementing after the incident?

A: Optus is conducting an internal review, designating an independent monitor, and cooperating with external investigations to avert future incidents.

Q: How has the government reacted to the outage?

A: The federal communications minister criticized Optus for the slow communication and urged improvements in their emergency call management systems.

Q: Are there ongoing investigations?

A: Yes, the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) and potentially other state agencies are investigating the matter.

Quick Overview

• Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (Supervised) is now accessible in Australia and New Zealand.
• Compatible with Model 3 and Model Y vehicles featuring HW4.
• OTA software upgrade is priced at A$10,100 or A$149/month subscription fee.
• FSD (Supervised) necessitates active driver oversight and is not entirely autonomous.
• The subscription model provides flexibility for users who may find the upfront cost challenging.
• Improper use may result in temporary suspension of FSD functionalities.

Tesla’s Pioneering Move in Australia

Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (Supervised) has been officially launched in Australia and New Zealand, delivering a transformative driving experience for Model 3 and Model Y owners with HW4 hardware. This is a major achievement, making Australia the inaugural right-hand drive market to access this innovative technology.

Enhanced Features and Functions

The Full Self-Driving (Supervised) feature upgrades Tesla’s current Autopilot by facilitating automatic signaling, navigating city turns, managing complex roundabouts, and operating on unmarked roads. The system employs Tesla Vision, utilizing a cutting-edge array of cameras and neural network processing to make driving safer and less stressful.

Launch Information

After a media unveiling, FSD (Supervised) can be obtained as a paid OTA software upgrade. Eligible Tesla owners can activate the feature through a WiFi-accessible update. Though the specific build version for customer vehicles is not confirmed, Tesla assures a smooth experience for those with Full Self-Driving Capability.

Cost and Subscription Option

FSD (Supervised) can be acquired outright for A$10,100, but Tesla has rolled out a more budget-friendly subscription model at A$149 per month. This adaptable option allows users to subscribe to FSD on a month-by-month basis, appealing to those who may only require it occasionally, such as when traveling.

Usage Guidelines and Suspension

Drivers should be aware that FSD (Supervised) is not entirely autonomous and requires ongoing supervision. Misuse, such as lack of attention, can result in temporary suspension after five “strikes.” The in-cabin camera tracks driver attentiveness to ensure safety and adherence to Tesla’s regulations.

Overall Effect

This announcement is groundbreaking for Australian Tesla owners who have eagerly anticipated this technology. While not flawless, it signifies a noteworthy step forward in driver assistance, enhancing the driving experience and road safety. Tesla’s dedication to innovation continues to establish new benchmarks in the automotive sector.

Recap

Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (Supervised) has landed in Australia and New Zealand, providing sophisticated driver assistance functionalities for Model 3 and Model Y owners. With adaptable pricing structures and a focus on safety, it represents a crucial advance in automotive technology, even though it requires active supervision from drivers.

Questions & Answers

Q: What is Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (Supervised) feature?

A: It is an advanced driver assistance system that enhances Tesla’s Autopilot with features like automatic signaling, cornering, and navigation on unmarked roads, necessitating active driver supervision.

Q: Which Tesla models in Australia are eligible for FSD (Supervised)?

A: It is available for Model 3 and Model Y vehicles equipped with HW4 hardware.

Q: What is the cost to subscribe to FSD (Supervised)?

A: The subscription costs A$149 per month, providing a flexible alternative to the A$10,100 outright purchase.

Q: Does FSD (Supervised) make Tesla vehicles completely autonomous?

A: No, it requires active driver oversight and does not render the vehicle fully autonomous.

Q: What occurs if a driver misuses FSD (Supervised)?

A: Improper use may lead to temporary suspension of the feature, with the in-cabin camera tracking driver attentiveness.

Q: Can current Tesla owners upgrade to FSD (Supervised)?

A: Yes, eligible vehicle owners can upgrade through an over-the-air update if they have purchased Full Self-Driving Capability.