Blog - Page 23 of 183 - Techbest - Top Tech Reviews In Australia

Tesla’s FSD V14 Scheduled for Broad Launch Next Week!

Vanessa May on September 26, 2025


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Brief Overview

  • Tesla’s FSD Version 14 is scheduled for a broad initial release next week.
  • Elon Musk has confirmed enhancements in model dimensions, context duration, and parking functionalities.
  • There is an expectation of improved capability for avoiding potholes and debris.
  • The current Autopilot system may be replaced by FSD V14.
  • Questions linger about the international launch, particularly concerning Australia.

FSD Version 14: A New Frontier for Tesla’s Autonomous Driving Technology

Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) software is nearing a significant update with the arrival of Version 14. As stated by Elon Musk, this eagerly awaited software enhancement is set for an early broad release next week, offering numerous improvements.

Main Enhancements in FSD V14

The new version is anticipated to take advantage of Tesla’s improved access to GPUs, facilitating a larger training dataset to enhance the driving model. This should bring about advancements in multiple areas:

  • Model Dimensions: Increased parameter quantity for better performance.
  • Context Duration: Increased memory for improved decision-making.
  • Complex Scenario Handling: Better management of intricate driving situations.
  • Parking Functionalities: Improved parking abilities.

Mitigating Road Dangers

A major enhancement expected in FSD V14 is its capability to steer clear of potholes and debris. As Tesla aims to develop a dedicated robotaxi, or Cybercab, these features are essential for guaranteeing a safe, unsupervised driving experience.

Deployment Schedule and Upcoming Updates

Version 14.0 will launch next week, followed by 14.1 roughly two weeks later, and eventually 14.2. Musk has indicated that by the time 14.2 is available, the vehicles will operate with a nearly sentient level of autonomy.

Possible Revamp of Autopilot Architecture

An August post from Musk mentioned Autopilot V14, indicating that the FSD framework may supersede the current code that governs basic driving operations. This transition could enhance performance and introduce software-lock capabilities for users who are not subscribed to FSD.

Global Availability

The introduction of FSD (Supervised) in Australia brings up concerns regarding the global release of Version 14. It is yet to be determined whether this update will be made available to Australian users simultaneously with the US launch or if delays will occur.

Tesla's FSD V14 Set for Wide Release Next Week

Conclusion

Tesla’s FSD Version 14 is set to bring significant progress in autonomous driving innovations. With enhancements in model dimensions, context duration, handling of complex scenarios, and parking, as well as improved hazard avoidance, this update is a vital stride toward Tesla’s ambition of fully autonomous vehicles. Nonetheless, the international rollout, especially in Australia, remains uncertain.

Q: What are the primary enhancements anticipated in Tesla’s FSD Version 14?

A: The main enhancements include a larger model size, extended context duration, improved management of complex scenarios, enhanced parking capabilities, and better pothole and debris avoidance.

Q: When is FSD Version 14 expected to be released?

A: FSD Version 14 is planned for an early broad release next week, with following updates 14.1 and 14.2 to be released shortly afterward.

Q: Will FSD V14 be launched in Australia?

A: It is currently uncertain whether FSD V14 will be released in Australia at the same time as in the US or if there will be delays.

Q: How does FSD V14 enhance Tesla’s autonomous driving capabilities?

A: This update improves Tesla’s autonomous driving by incorporating more training data and GPUs, leading to better decision-making, hazard avoidance, and overall driving proficiency.

Hidden “BRICKSTORM” Backdoor Uncovered in Network Framework

wpengine on September 26, 2025


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Stealthy “BRICKSTORM” Backdoor Imperils Network Infrastructure

Stealthy “BRICKSTORM” Backdoor Imperils Network Infrastructure

Quick Read

  • BRICKSTORM is a surveillance malware linked to the China-associated UNC5221 APT.
  • Developed in Go, it averages a dwell time of 393 days.
  • Targets network devices such as firewalls and virtualization platforms.
  • Utilizes obfuscation and unique C2 domains for stealth.
  • Aimed at data exfiltration and geopolitical surveillance.
  • Possible connections to Silk Typhoon or Hafnium APT factions.
  • Mandiant provides a BRICKSTORM detection utility on GitHub.
Stealthy, enduring "BRICKSTORM" espionage backdoor discovered in network infrastructure

The BRICKSTORM Threat Landscape

Google’s Threat Intelligence Group (GTIG) and Mandiant have provided insights into a complex backdoor surveillance malware named BRICKSTORM. Associated with the Chinese UNC5221 advanced persistent threat (APT), this malware has been operational since March, demonstrating an impressive capability to remain undetected for an average of 393 days in compromised networks.

Focus on Network Infrastructure

BRICKSTORM specifically targets network devices like firewalls, virtual private network (VPN) concentrators, and virtualization platforms such as VMware vCenter. These intrusions are designed to secure long-term, covert access, installing backdoors on devices that typically lack endpoint detection and response (EDR) capabilities.

Stealth and Obfuscation Techniques

This malware employs obfuscation methods, uses disposable command and control (C2) domains, and integrates fluidly with device workflows, thus complicating detection efforts. Such tactics enable it to avoid typical security defenses.

Espionage and Data Exfiltration

BRICKSTORM emphasizes data exfiltration, utilizing the SOCKS network protocol to bypass firewalls and security measures. It also engages in geopolitical surveillance and theft of intellectual property, aiding in the development of exploits. Among the sensitive information collected are admin mailboxes from compromised systems.

Relation to Other APT Groups

While BRICKSTORM’s operations suggest links to known factions like Silk Typhoon or Hafnium, Google-Mandiant proposes that it may represent a separate APT due to its specific targeting strategies.

Efforts in Detection

Mandiant has taken significant steps to facilitate detection by releasing a BRICKSTORM scanning Bash script on GitHub, suitable for Linux and BSD-based systems, offering an invaluable resource for cybersecurity experts.

Conclusion

The identification of the BRICKSTORM backdoor underlines the changing threat landscape in cyber espionage aimed at network infrastructure. With its extended persistence and intricate stealth strategies, it presents a considerable challenge for detection and countermeasures.

Q: What is BRICKSTORM?

A: BRICKSTORM is a surveillance malware associated with the China-linked UNC5221 APT, recognized for its prolonged persistence in networks and stealth methods.

Q: Why is BRICKSTORM challenging to detect?

A: It uses obfuscation, disposable C2 domains, and seamlessly integrates with device workflows to evade detection.

Q: What are the main targets of BRICKSTORM?

A: It targets network appliances like firewalls and virtualization platforms, as well as sectors such as legal services, BPOs, and SaaS providers.

Q: How can organizations defend against BRICKSTORM?

A: By utilizing advanced detection tools such as the BRICKSTORM scanning script from Mandiant and enhancing network security protocols.

Q: Is BRICKSTORM connected to any other APT groups?

A: It may be associated with groups like Silk Typhoon or Hafnium, but it also shows distinctive targeting patterns indicating a separate APT.

Q: What is the primary goal of BRICKSTORM?

A: The primary goal is data exfiltration, along with geopolitical espionage and theft of intellectual property.

Origin Energy Introduces Australia’s Initial Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) Subscription Offering

David Leane on September 25, 2025


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Origin Energy's Initial Vehicle-to-Grid V2G Subscription Initiative

Brief Overview

  • Origin Energy teams up with BYD and StarCharge for Australia’s inaugural V2G EV subscription pilot.
  • The pilot includes a bi-directional charger along with complimentary home charging.
  • Participants have the opportunity to supply power back to the grid for incentives.
  • The pilot is restricted to 50 participants commencing in 2026.
  • Origin’s Virtual Power Plant streamlines charging and savings efforts.

Origin’s Vehicle-to-Grid Subscription Initiative: A New Frontier in EV Charging

In a groundbreaking step, Origin Energy, alongside BYD and StarCharge, is launching Australia’s first electric vehicle (EV) subscription pilot featuring vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology. This innovative program includes a bi-directional charger paired with complimentary home charging, enabling drivers to recharge their EVs via grid or solar energy. Moreover, participants can send their stored electricity back to the grid, potentially leading to substantial savings on operating expenses.

Comprehending Vehicle-to-Grid Technology

Vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology turns electric vehicles into portable energy storage solutions. During off-peak hours, when solar energy is plentiful, EVs can be charged at reduced costs. In high-demand periods, drivers can supply stored energy back to the grid, easing the strain on fossil fuel sources while earning credits. This pioneering method not only lowers individual energy expenses but also promotes a more sustainable energy landscape nationwide.

Main Features of the V2G Package

Automated Complimentary Home Charging
Driven by Origin’s advanced technology, the system offers charging for a minimum of 12 hours a day, 20 days a month, providing up to 320kWh free—adequate for typical Australian driving needs without manual effort.

Bi-directional Energy Flow
The system facilitates charging from both the grid and solar sources, allowing excess energy export during peak times, transforming your EV into a flexible grid resource that earns rewards for engagement.

Adaptable Subscription Benefits
With month-to-month arrangements, the service avoids extensive contracts and provides fringe benefits tax (FBT) exceptions through salary packaging, already benefiting over 1,600 Origin EV drivers throughout Australia.

Exclusive Trial Participation
The trial is limited to 50 participants for 2026, with eligibility assessments involved. Interested individuals can register their interest to enter the waitlist and contribute to the future of V2G in Australia.

Automated Cost Savings
Origin’s Virtual Power Plant manages the entire operation, decreasing dependence on fossil fuels during peak times and rewarding EV owners for their participation.

Access

Origin is now inviting expressions of interest for the trial slated to start in 2026. Participation is limited to 50 customers, with specific eligibility conditions applicable.

For additional details, visit https://www.originenergy.com.au/electric-vehicles/v2g-bundle-trial.

Conclusion

The introduction of Australia’s first V2G subscription initiative by Origin Energy signifies a major advancement in integrating electric vehicles with the national energy system. Collaborating with partners BYD and StarCharge, this initiative not only presents economical and eco-friendly options for EV users but also places Australia as a leader in sustainable energy developments.

Q: What is the vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology?

A: V2G technology enables electric vehicles to function as mobile batteries, charging during low-demand hours and sending stored energy back to the grid during high-demand periods, offering both financial and environmental advantages.

Q: How does the V2G subscription trial benefit participants?

A: Participants can take advantage of free home charging, potential reductions in energy expenses, and earn rewards by sending energy back to the grid. The trial also features flexible subscription options with tax benefits.

Q: What are the criteria for joining the V2G trial?

A: The trial is limited to 50 participants, and eligibility conditions apply. Interested individuals can register their interest to join the waitlist.

Q: How does Origin’s Virtual Power Plant enhance the service?

A: Origin’s Virtual Power Plant automates the charging flow and aids in stabilising the grid by controlling energy distribution, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and compensating EV owners.

Q: Which vehicles are included in the V2G subscription trial?

A: The trial focuses on the BYD Atto 3 SUV combined with a StarCharge V2G Halo bi-directional charger.

Q: When will the V2G subscription trial commence?

A: The trial is anticipated to begin in 2026, with expressions of interest currently being accepted.

Australian Gas Infrastructure Group Initiates Next Stage of CRM Revamp

Nicholas Kinports on September 25, 2025


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AGIG Initiates CRM Revamp to Improve Customer Experience

AGIG Initiates CRM Revamp to Improve Customer Experience

Quick Read

  • AGIG is currently in the second stage of its CRM revamp.
  • Deployment of SAP Service Cloud is designed to enhance customer interaction.
  • Emphasis is placed on upgrading services for at-risk customers.
  • Centralised service operations have already improved problem resolution.
  • Upcoming phases will incorporate additional systems and data sources.

CRM Revamp Journey

The Australian Gas Infrastructure Group (AGIG) is progressing with the second stage of its Customer Relationship Management (CRM) revamp. The initiative seeks to create a more interconnected, transparent, and proactive service model for its 2 million clientele.

AGIG advances CRM revamp at SAP NOW AI summit

At the SAP NOW AI summit in Melbourne, senior project manager Monther Alnababteh provided updates on the initiative’s progress. The first stage centralised and optimised customer service across different business sections, resulting in improved visibility and analytics capabilities.

Enhancing Customer Interaction

The second stage concentrates on enhancing customer interaction, particularly in marketing and proactive communications. This stage is aimed at strengthening relationships with stakeholders and fostering customer engagement.

AGIG intends to merge additional systems and data sources with SAP CRM, guided by a comprehensive roadmap to direct this effort.

Assisting At-Risk Customers

Although AGIG mainly operates as a distributor and does not engage directly with consumers, it keeps a priority services registry for at-risk customers in Victoria, South Australia, and Queensland. The CRM revamp has notably improved support for these individuals.

Since the revamp was launched, registrations for at-risk customers have surged by over 400%, while processing durations for these applications have seen a 75% decrease. Additionally, inquiry resolution times have improved by 25%.

Benefits for Stakeholders

Aside from customers, other stakeholders such as gas retailers and councils stand to gain from AGIG’s revamp. The objective is to ensure smooth communication and swift problem resolution during critical situations like emergencies and outages.

Conclusion

AGIG’s CRM revamp, supported by SAP Service Cloud, is advancing to boost both customer and stakeholder engagement. With noteworthy advantages already seen in service delivery, future phases will further integrate systems to enrich the overall customer journey.

Q: What is the aim of AGIG’s CRM revamp?

A:

The revamp aims to develop a more connected, transparent, and proactive service model to enhance engagement with customers and stakeholders.

Q: How did phase one of the revamp benefit AGIG?

A:

The first phase centralised and optimised customer service processes, improving visibility and enabling real-time analytics for identifying issues.

Q: What improvements have been observed for at-risk customers?

A:

Registrations for at-risk customers increased by over 400%, processing times improved by 75%, and inquiry handling times saw a boost of 25%.

Q: Who else gains from AGIG’s revamp besides customers?

A:

Other stakeholders, including gas retailers and councils, benefit from enhanced coordination and seamless communication during service provision.

Q: What are the future plans for AGIG’s CRM revamp?

A:

Future stages will involve integrating additional systems and data sources to further enhance engagement with both customers and stakeholders.

Nvidia and OpenAI Launch Bold 10GW Collaboration to Advance the Future of AI

wpengine on September 24, 2025


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Nvidia and OpenAI's pioneering 10GW AI alliance

Brief Overview

  • Nvidia and OpenAI unveil a 10GW partnership to boost AI advancement.
  • This collaboration merges Nvidia’s hardware with OpenAI’s software, yielding a robust alliance.
  • OpenAI obtains prioritized access to Nvidia’s premium GPUs, obtaining a strategic advantage.
  • Opportunity for groundbreaking AI models in sectors such as robotics, healthcare, and environmental science.
  • The 10GW power expansion prompts discussions about sustainable energy alternatives.

Strategic Association Between Nvidia and OpenAI

Nvidia and OpenAI have entered a transformative partnership poised to revolutionize artificial intelligence. By utilizing 10GW of Nvidia systems, this collaboration signifies a fresh chapter in AI development, setting a standard for competitors and accelerating the production of upcoming AI models.

Economic Factors

This partnership is a thoroughly integrated, long-term commitment with OpenAI investing significantly in Nvidia’s existing and upcoming chips. In return, Nvidia will infuse OpenAI’s enterprise solutions, such as ChatGPT, into its operations. This collaboration guarantees a perpetual improvement cycle, augmenting the capabilities of both parties.

Dominance in AI and Rivalry

The agreement guarantees OpenAI’s prime access to Nvidia’s GPUs during a time of limited availability, presenting a notable competitive edge. With competitors like Elon Musk’s xAI chasing similar resources, this arrangement positions OpenAI at the leading edge of AI advancement.

Exploring New Opportunities

By harnessing Nvidia’s cutting-edge computing capabilities, OpenAI plans to create intricate models skilled in multi-modal interactions. This could transform domains such as autonomous robotics and scientific advancements in healthcare and environmental science.

Driving the Future: The Energy Dilemma

The 10GW expansion entails substantial energy needs, akin to Victoria’s maximum electricity consumption. Accommodating this demand sustainably is essential, potentially involving fresh renewable energy projects or even nuclear power solutions to facilitate ongoing AI activities.

Conclusion

The partnership between Nvidia and OpenAI represents a significant milestone in AI progression, merging pioneering hardware and software to expand boundaries and foster innovation across various sectors. While it brings considerable energy challenges, the collaboration establishes a new benchmark for AI infrastructure and capacity.

Q: What is the main objective of the Nvidia and OpenAI partnership?

A: The main objective is to improve AI capabilities by implementing 10GW of Nvidia systems, facilitating the development of sophisticated AI models and securing a competitive advantage within the sector.

Q: In what ways does this partnership benefit OpenAI?

A: OpenAI secures priority access to Nvidia’s advanced GPUs, empowering it to extend the limits of AI research and create more advanced models.

Q: What are the energy demands for this deployment?

A: The 10GW deployment necessitates a considerable energy provision, comparable to the peak electricity demand of Victoria, requiring innovative energy strategies.

Q: How could this partnership influence AI research and applications?

A: This collaboration could result in breakthroughs in multi-modal AI systems, affecting fields such as robotics, healthcare, and environmental science by enabling more intricate and capable AI models.

Q: What possible solutions exist for the energy challenge?

A: Possible solutions encompass renewable energy initiatives through Power Purchase Agreements or investigating nuclear power options to secure a reliable energy supply.

Researchers Unveil Advanced ShadowV2 DDoS-as-a-Service Cloud Botnet

Vanessa May on September 24, 2025


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ShadowV2 DDoS-as-a-Service Cloud Botnet: A New World of Cyber Threats

ShadowV2 DDoS-as-a-Service Cloud Botnet: A New World of Cyber Threats

Refined ShadowV2 DDoS service in the form of a cloud botnet

Brief Overview

  • ShadowV2 is an advanced DDoS-as-a-Service system that imitates SaaS frameworks.
  • Created with contemporary software frameworks and hosted on GitHub CodeSpaces.
  • Aims at cloud infrastructures, exploiting AWS EC2 instances.
  • Provides sophisticated DDoS methods like HTTP/2 rapid reset floods and Cloudflare evasion strategies.
  • Challenges conventional security solutions with expert software engineering techniques.
  • Signals a movement towards service-oriented models in cybercrime, likely expanding its user demographic.

Overview of ShadowV2

Cybersecurity analysts have recently identified ShadowV2, an intricate distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) system that blends aspects of traditional malware with modern software-as-a-service (SaaS) offerings. Recognized by Darktrace, ShadowV2 provides attackers with a high-quality login interface and tools that resemble authentic cloud-native applications.

Technical Framework and Features

The system is developed on a FastAPI and Pydantic backend with OpenAPI documentation, featuring a frontend with Tailwind CSS animations. This “sophisticated attack platform” offers role-based access management, user oversight, and blacklists for secured targets. Although it displays a counterfeit law enforcement seizure warning on its primary domain, its API endpoints continue to function.

ShadowV2’s functionalities include advanced DDoS methodologies like HTTP/2 rapid reset floods and bypassing Cloudflare’s “under attack mode.” These tactics enable one client to produce an enormous amount of traffic, far exceeding older methods. The platform also utilizes a ChromeDP browser to circumvent Cloudflare’s JavaScript challenges, although with limited efficacy due to headless browser detection.

Hosting and Operational Strategies

ShadowV2 operates on a Python-based command-and-control system hosted on GitHub CodeSpaces. This setup grants attackers access to Microsoft’s extensive infrastructure, minimizes operational costs, and disguises activities under legitimate cloud service agreements. The botnet targets vulnerable Docker daemons on Amazon Web Services (AWS) EC2 instances, showcasing a comprehensive understanding of cloud workload deployments.

Consequences for Cybersecurity

The ShadowV2 botnet demonstrates a high degree of software engineering, using environmental variables for setup, RESTful APIs for bot management, modular updates, and comprehensive error management. These methods align more with legitimate technology companies than underground hackers, complicating identification and remediation efforts. Traditional signature-based security systems face challenges from these cloud-native architectures and professional development methodologies.

Darktrace points out that ShadowV2’s user levels and attack restrictions indicate a service-oriented model targeting a variety of customer groups, potentially extending its reach beyond usual cybercriminals.

Conclusion

ShadowV2 signifies a new chapter in cyber threats, intertwining advanced software engineering with cloud infrastructure to deliver a refined DDoS-as-a-Service platform. Its sophisticated capabilities and professional development practices pose significant challenges for cybersecurity, hinting at an evolving landscape within cybercrime.

Q&A Session

Q: What is ShadowV2?

A: ShadowV2 is a high-level DDoS-as-a-Service platform that imitates software-as-a-service frameworks, providing advanced DDoS attack functionalities.

Q: What are the technical characteristics of ShadowV2?

A: It includes a FastAPI and Pydantic backend, Tailwind CSS animations, and advanced DDoS techniques such as HTTP/2 rapid reset floods and Cloudflare bypasses.

Q: How does ShadowV2 function?

A: It operates on a Python-based command-and-control framework hosted on GitHub CodeSpaces, leveraging Microsoft’s global infrastructure.

Q: What distinguishes ShadowV2 from conventional malware?

A: It adopts professional software engineering standards, resembling established tech companies, and challenges traditional security protocols.

Q: Who can be the potential victims of ShadowV2?

A: It targets cloud infrastructure, particularly exposed Docker daemons on AWS EC2 instances.

Q: What are the implications for cybersecurity concerning ShadowV2?

A: It complicates identification and mitigation efforts, confronts traditional security solutions, and indicates a shift towards service-oriented models in cybercrime.

ACMA Proposes Digital ID for Verification of Prepaid SIM in New Initiative

wpengine on September 23, 2025


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Quick Read

  • Australian telecommunications companies might soon implement Digital ID for verifying prepaid SIM cards.
  • The ACMA’s initiative seeks to minimize SIM-related fraud and prevent data breaches.
  • Introduced nearly a year ago, the Digital ID Act encourages the use of digital credentials.
  • The government has allocated $288.1 million for the rollout of Digital ID by 2026.
  • The proposal’s consultation phase concludes on October 25.

Digital ID: The Next Step in Prepaid SIM Verification for Australia

ACMA suggests digital ID for prepaid SIM verification in Australia

Introduction

In a development that may transform the customer onboarding process for prepaid mobile services, the Australian Communications Media Authority (ACMA) has put forth a proposal to enable telecommunications companies to authenticate customers through Digital ID. If adopted, this plan would connect digital wallets to verified identification such as driver’s licenses or Medicare cards for SIM activation, with the aim of curtailing fraud and simplifying the verification process.

Background: Digital ID Act and Its Implications

Almost a year post the introduction of the Digital ID Act, this proposal signifies a notable advancement towards wider acceptance of digital credentials. The Digital ID framework is aimed at addressing risks linked to data breaches, a crucial concern underscored by recent events involving major firms like Optus and Medibank.

Government Support and Financial Commitment

The Australian government has committed $288.1 million over a four-year period, as detailed in the Budget 2024-25, to facilitate the rollout of Digital ID throughout both the public and private sectors by December 2026. This financial investment emphasizes the significance attributed to digital identity as a fundamental aspect of contemporary verification procedures.

Current Verification Process for Prepaid SIMs

Since 2017, it has been a requirement for Australian telecommunications companies to confirm customer identities prior to activating prepaid mobile services. At present, this process involves a document verification system (DVS) to authenticate government-issued identification either in person or online.

ACMA’s Proposal and Consultation Period

The ACMA’s proposal is designed to ease the incorporation of Digital ID into the prevailing verification process without imposing extra compliance barriers. All stakeholders and the public are invited to share their opinions on this proposal until October 25.

Summary

The ACMA’s initiative to incorporate Digital ID into the verification of prepaid SIM cards represents a progressive step towards bolstering security and efficiency in the onboarding process for mobile services. With backing from the government and a specified implementation timeline, the shift towards digital identities is set to become a reality for Australian telecommunications providers, potentially establishing a model for other industries.

Q&A

Q: What is the goal of utilizing Digital ID for prepaid SIM verification?

A: The aim is to diminish SIM-related fraud and lessen dependence on physical document checks by associating SIM activation with verified digital credentials.

Q: What influence does the Digital ID Act have on this proposal?

A: The Digital ID Act promotes wider usage of digital credentials, offering a legal foundation for the application of Digital ID across various fields, including telecommunications.

Q: What financial backing has the government provided for the Digital ID rollout?

A: The government has allocated $288.1 million over four years to aid the introduction of Digital ID, aiming for comprehensive implementation in both public and private sectors by December 2026.

Q: How are prepaid SIMs currently verified?

A: Prepaid SIMs are presently verified through a document verification system (DVS) that authenticates government-issued IDs, conducted either in-person or online.

Q: When does the consultation phase for ACMA’s proposal conclude?

A: The consultation phase for ACMA’s proposal concludes on October 25.

Origin Energy Unveils Australia’s Initial Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) Subscription

Matthew Miller on September 23, 2025


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Origin Energy Launches Australia's First V2G Subscription Service

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.

CBA Introduces Lumos: Advanced AI Accelerator for Optimizing Cloud Application Preparation

wpengine on September 23, 2025


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CBA’s Lumos AI Accelerator

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 unveils Lumos AI accelerator for cloud application transition

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.