aaa jili777 US agencies should use advanced technology to identify mysterious drones, Schumer saysArticle content Times may be tough, but the toy season soldiers on, especially during the holidays, when gifts for kids top everyone’s Santa list. Recommended Videos This year’s top trends may be reflective of the difficult times consumers have been living through — kids today want to immerse themselves in a world of wonder, magic and anime. According the Toy Association , “mystical, magical, and supernatural toys” are the latest trends, if only to “transport kids and adults on an enchanting journey, blurring the lines between fantasy and reality.” The organization points out that, thanks to a resurgence of cultural interest in spooky, mystery and horror genres across movies, TV, and literature, “expect to see an array of toys that leverage new technologies, hidden features, secret codes and unfolding narratives that tap into our natural curiosity, explore the thrill of the unknown and lead kids to new discoveries.” What’s hot? The Toy Association reported that trends for 2024 include “eco-lasting play, eerie enchantment, vitamin P(lay) and anime mania.” This includes toys that fuel emotional intelligence, are screen-free and sports inspired. “Toys that not only promote physical fitness but stimulate creativity, healthy emotional expression and social interaction,” noted the site. “Play-based learning.” Other toy trends for 2024 see a decided shift from the big toys to more micro-sized collectibles and small projects — toys based on movie characters are skyrocketing (did anyone say dolls based on the smashing hit movie Wicked ?) Although people have been tightening their belts since the pandemic, research shows that revenue in the toys and hobby markets is expected to reach into the billions of dollars. In Canada, research from madeinca.ca noted that “Canadian toy and games sales generated almost $7.3 billion in retail store sales in 2022” and that the fastest growing toy categories were plush, outdoor and sports toys, games and puzzles. It should be noted about 75% of Canadians “still prefer to shop for toys and games in brick-and-mortar stores” and that Canadians were already toy bargain hunting in the early fall, looking for marked-down deals on last year’s bestselling toys. Juli Lennett, Circana’s vice-president and industry adviser for U.S. toys, reported on the Toy Book website that the market has remained “relatively stable (and) the industry continues to demonstrate resilience,” noting that this year’s standout toys include Pokemon, Squishmallows, Star Wars, Marvel, Barbie, LEGOIcons, Hot Wheels and Fisher-Price. According to NPD Group Canada, toy growth is coming from all across the industry and that the biggest growth is in the plush toy category, along with action figures and accessories. (We’re looking at you, Deadpool and Wolverine!) “This season, parents are looking for toys that will spark imagination, engage kids for repeat play and are durable,” said Shalin Shah, director of marketing and digital platforms for Mattel Canada. Some of the top toy names include Barbie, Hot Wheels Ultimate Garage, Fisher-Price and card games, she said, adding, “The spend on children’s toys really varies, (with) options for every price point.” RECOMMENDED VIDEO The top contenders? “Year after year, Lego remains a top contender on children’s Christmas wish lists,” said Ryan Campbell, an associate vice-president for kids fun at Canadian Tire. “Hot Wheels never goes out of style either. Finally, the classic Furby and its mini Furblets make for the perfect plush stocking stuffers. These interactive, harmonizing companions are as fuzzy as they are fun, guaranteed to delight kids of all ages.” Marisa Pedatella, manager of brand communications for Hasbro Canada, said fan and family brands include Transformers, Monopoly, Dungeons and Dragons, Magic: The Gathering, Peppa the Pig, Play-Doh and premiere collaboration brands (like Star Wars and Marvel from Disney) are also among the most popular. That said, no need to break the bank as there are “stocking stuffers and gifts under $30,” as well as creative play products, action toys, board games and pop culture-inspired merch — “gifts that are not only entertaining, but making learning fun.” As such, science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) toys and games continue to be in demand. TOP TOYS FOR 2024 According to Toys “R” Us Canada , this season’s top toys include: — Barbie Dreamhouse; — Little Live Pets Mama Surprise; — Nerf N Series Gear Up Pack; — Pac-Man Arcade Pinball; — Baby Annabell Active Doll; — VTech Go! Go! Smart Wheels Track Set; — Hot Wheels Monster Trucks; — Lite Bright Super Bright HD Hello Kitty; — Fisher-Price Thomas & Friends My First Train Table; — Lego Disney Stitch Buildable Kids’ Toy Playset.

As AI rapidly transforms workplaces, employees are on edge. Roughly two years after ChatGPT's release sparked widespread interest in generative AI, it's becoming clear that most workers' jobs will fundamentally change — and some may disappear. An analysis by the International Monetary Fund published in January forecast that artificial intelligence would affect nearly 40% of jobs. But the impact of AI on employment is complex and far-reaching. Some roles may become obsolete; others may be augmented or even created by AI. Workers are simultaneously experiencing anxiety, doubt, and excitement . What new skills will I need to develop? How can I stay relevant? And importantly, is my organization prepared for this AI-driven future? Whether employees can trust their organization's leaders to navigate these opportunities is a pivotal question, said Brian Solis, the head of global innovation at ServiceNow, a cloud-based automation platform, and author of the book "Mindshift: Transform Leadership, Drive Innovation, and Reshape the Future . " He said that while many executives recognize AI's promise in increasing efficiency by automating repetitive tasks, they often fail to grasp the technology's profound potential . "Leaders talk about the new normal or the next normal, but then they natively snap back to business as usual," Solis said. "It's the leaders who explore and ask: 'What if? Who will unlock entirely new ways of working?'" Workers themselves have a responsibility to learn and grow, he added. They need to experiment with new technologies both in and outside work and challenge themselves to push beyond their comfort zones. "You need to literally rewire your brain," he said. "If you're waiting for someone to tell you what to do, you're on the wrong side of innovation." 'Workers need to be proactive' Despite the breathless headlines about AI changing everything about the way we work, the reality is more mundane. In a quarterly Gallup survey of American workers conducted in May, seven in 10 respondents said they never used AI in their jobs, and only one in 10 said they used it regularly. The survey used a random sample of 21,543 working adults. Among those who said they did use AI, the most common applications included generating ideas, consolidating information, and automating basic tasks. Still, investment in AI continues to surge. A report from IDC predicted that global spending would reach $632 billion by 2028, more than double what it is now, covering AI apps, infrastructure, and related services. Companies are investing in AI to avoid falling behind , said Mansour Javidan, an expert in digital transformation and the executive director of the Najafi Global Mindset Institute at Arizona State's Thunderbird School of Global Management. "There's a lot of hype driven by board expectations, and that's led to a herd mentality to move quickly," he said. "No CEO is going to look bad by investing in AI right now." Workers, meanwhile, are caught between uncertainty and anticipation. "There's a disconnect," Javidan said. "At the highest levels of the organization, there's a lot of excitement about AI. But among lower- and midlevel employees, there's a good deal of anxiety and ambiguity because there's no clear path." But "workers mustn't rely on senior executives and hope things will turn out rosy," he said. Javidan advises employees to seize development opportunities within their organizations and seek out online courses. Many top universities, including MIT and Stanford, provide free classes and workshops to help people build their skills. Grassroots and community-based learning groups, such as Women Defining AI , can be valuable resources. "Workers need to be proactive and educate themselves," he said. AI as a strategic collaborator Beyond formal training and coursework, getting comfortable with AI requires a fundamental mindset shift, experts say. "We were born with skills like curiosity, wonder, and imagination, but we often unlearned these in schools," Solis said. "The aim with AI should not be to generate expected answers or reinforce existing thinking but to challenge our conventions." Solis said he uses AI as a tool for perspective taking, asking it to generate responses from the personas of the Apple founder Steve Jobs and Walt Disney. This approach helps him identify blind spots, explore alternative viewpoints, and seek inspiration. "They're my personal coaches," he said. Molly Sands, the head of the teamwork lab at the software company Atlassian, which studies teamwork in the age of AI and distributed work, recommends viewing AI as a creative partner , not just a task-completion machine. "The people who are saving the most time and seeing the biggest benefits are those who see AI as a strategic collaborator," she said. This involves engaging with AI through dynamic, iterative conversations — much like working with a team of experts, she said. A new study by researchers at the MIT Sloan School of Management backed this up, finding that human-AI teams showed the most promise in creative tasks like generating content and imagery and translating software code. "A lot of people use it for one or two use cases, but the growth we're going to see in the next year or two is the people who think about it more ubiquitously," Sands said. "Agents will be a key driver of this." Her team at Atlassian, for example, has developed a custom agent designed to help employees write more clearly. Essentially, she said, workers "word-vomit" into the agent with information about their audience, context, and key details. The agent then offers up a tailored draft in the worker's voice. "Our workdays are consumed by writing emails, creating slide decks, and other routine tasks," Sands said. "If AI can take on some of this load — freeing us up for creative thinking and solving meaty problems — the better off we'll be." The value of soft skills Learning how to work with AI is imperative for most workers, but it's important to recognize that human skills remain essential . After all, said Hakan Ozcelik, a professor of management at California State University, Sacramento, the value of human workers lies in their cognitive, behavioral, and emotional abilities. "There are all sorts of skills that AI doesn't have yet, and maybe never will," he said. "Humans are inherently social beings, constantly interacting with customers, colleagues, competitors, and their physical environment," Ozcelik said. "These interpersonal skills are invaluable assets for any organization." While AI can process information and perform repetitive functions with speed and accuracy, it lacks the soft skills necessary for effective communication and strategic decision-making. A report by Cornerstone , a skills-development platform, said that while generative-AI-related job postings had risen 411% since 2023, the demand for soft skills such as leadership, communication, and emotional intelligence outpaced digital skills by 2.4 times in North America and 2.9 times in Europe. This is why Ozcelik advises employees to embark on what he calls "a process of professional soul-searching." Closely analyze your daily activities to determine your unique contributions and core competencies that cannot be outsourced, he said: "Dissect your work and look at what you offer your organization in a given day or a week." Also, identify areas where AI could offer assistance. For example, teachers may realize that while AI can handle grading for grammar and syntax, they should focus on evaluating students' ideas and nurturing creativity. Similarly, healthcare professionals can leverage AI for administrative tasks or data analysis while dedicating more quality time to patients. In an AI-driven world, the need for human skills will not change; instead, these skills will become even more vital as workers learn to collaborate effectively with technology, Ozcelik said. "It's about what you contribute and the value you bring," he said.

Podeli : Belgrade University deans expressed strong support for the protesting students and condemned attacks and threats on the academic community. Students have been blockading several colleges for days, demanding accountability for the deaths of 15 people in the fall of a canopy roof at Novi Sad Railway Station and other things. “The University of Belgrade strongly supports students in their initial demands as self-aware, academic citizens, particularly highlighting our students’ readiness to respond to events of public and social significance,” a statement said after a meeting of the Extended Rector’s Collegium. It noted that the students clearly expressed concern for the state of society. “The University stands in defense of students and colleagues who are confronted with unacceptable media insults, physical attacks, and threats, as well as inadmissible rhetoric directed at the academic community. We condemn any actions by those who violently provoke reactions from students, collaborators, and teachers, while simultaneously strongly supporting the manner in which the integrity of the academic community is preserved,” it added. “We publicly appeal to all political players and the media to refrain from using student gatherings to achieve their goals, to respect the autonomy of the University, and the right of students to express their views,” the statement said. It said that students will not be punished for protesting, preserving the integrity of the academic community, their critical thinking and their actions as a vital part of society. “We expect students not to interfere with the conduct of the administrative affairs of the Rectorate and all members of the University,” it added. The statement demanded urgent action by the authorities to meet the students’ initial requests.

By Funto Omojola, NerdWallet Mobile wallets that allow you to pay using your phone have been around for well more than a decade, and over those years they’ve grown in popularity, becoming a key part of consumers’ credit card usage. According to a “state of credit card report” for 2025 from credit bureau Experian, 53% of Americans in a survey say they use digital wallets more frequently than traditional payment methods. To further incentivize mobile wallet usage, some credit card issuers offer bonus rewards when you elect to pay that way. But those incentives can go beyond just higher reward rates. In fact, mobile wallets in some ways are becoming an essential part of activating and holding a credit card. For example, they can offer immediate access to your credit line, and they can be easier and safer than paying with a physical card. OK, but let’s start with bonus rewards From a rewards perspective, it can make a lot of sense to reach for your phone now instead of your physical card. The Apple Card offers its highest reward rates when you use it through the Apple Pay mobile wallet. Same goes for the PayPal Cashback Mastercard® when you use it to make purchases via the PayPal digital wallet. The Kroger grocery store giant has a co-branded credit card that earns the most when you pay using an eligible digital wallet, and some major credit cards with quarterly rotating bonus categories have a history of incentivizing digital wallet use. But again, these days it’s not just about the rewards. Instant credit access Mobile wallets like Apple Pay, Samsung Pay and PayPal can offer immediate access to your credit line while you wait for your physical card to arrive after approval. Indeed, most major issuers including Bank of America®, Capital One and Chase now offer instant virtual credit card numbers for eligible cards that can be used upon approval by adding them to a digital wallet. Additionally, many co-branded credit cards — those offered in partnership with another brand — commonly offer instant card access and can be used immediately on in-brand purchases. Credit cards typically take seven to 10 days to arrive after approval, so instant access to your credit line can be particularly useful if you need to make an urgent or unexpected purchase. Plus, they allow you to start spending toward a card’s sign-up bonus right away. Convenience and safety As issuers push toward mobile payments, a growing number of merchants and businesses are similarly adopting the payment method. The percentage of U.S. businesses that used digital wallets increased to 62% in 2023, compared to 47% the previous year, according to a 2023 survey commissioned by the Federal Reserve Financial Services. Related Articles Business | Event promoters, hotels and lodging sites soon will have to disclose extra fees up front Business | Should you donate your points and miles to charity? Business | Skip the holiday debt by planning before you spend Business | 5 ways to tell if you’re on track for retirement — and 5 things to do if you need to catch up, according to experts Business | The White House is cracking down on overdraft fees Wider acceptance is potentially good news for the average American, who according to Experian has about four credit cards. While that won’t necessarily weigh down your wallet, it can be hard to manage multiple cards and rewards categories at once. Mobile wallets offer a more efficient way to store and organize all of your workhorse cards, while not having to carry around ones that you don’t use often. They can also help you more easily monitor your spending and rewards, and some even track your orders’ status and arrival time. Plus, paying with a digital wallet offers added security. That’s because it uses technology called tokenization when you pay, which masks your real credit card number and instead sends an encrypted “token” that’s unique to each payment. This is unlike swiping or dipping a physical card, during which your credit card number is more directly accessible. And again, because a mobile wallet doesn’t require you to have your physical cards present, there’s less chance of one falling out of your pocket or purse. Funto Omojola writes for NerdWallet. Email: fomojola@nerdwallet.com. The article Activating Your Credit Card? Don’t Skip the Mobile Wallet Step originally appeared on NerdWallet .

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Makkah, a city that sees millions of visitors every year, quietly holds a piece of Hyderabad ’s history that often goes unnoticed. Nestled in the heart of this busy city is the Nizam’s Rubath, a legacy that dates back centuries. Established with the purpose of providing free accommodation for pilgrims traveling from the Deccan region, the Rubath has long been a symbol of Hyderabadi hospitality and philanthropy. Its origins, deeply rooted in the vision of the Nizams, reflect their commitment to supporting their people on this holy journey. The Rubath Nizam Hyderabad in Makkah traces its origins to the mid-19th century during the reign of Afzal-ud-Daula, Asaf Jah V. Recognizing the challenges faced by pilgrims journeying from Hyderabad and surrounding regions to Makkah, the Nizam decided to create a sanctuary for them. While there is no historical evidence to support the number, legend has it that Afzal-ud-Daula established 42 Rubath buildings in 1860 to provide instant relief to those who faced long journeys. Notably, at that time Saudi Arabia was undergoing a financial crisis, as the country had yet to discover the oil reserves that would later transform its economy. The government was struggling to provide adequate facilities to the influx of pilgrims arriving for Hajj. The Nizam’s Rubath proved to be an invaluable resource, offering refuge and much-needed comfort to not only Hyderabadis but visitors from Marathwada and Karnataka. To ensure easy access to the Kaaba, the Rubath was strategically established near the haram. Over time, the Rubath only grew in importance and became a significant symbol of Hyderabad’s connection to Makkah. The Nizam’s Rubath in Makkah today is a blend of tradition and modernity. It continues to be a cornerstone for pilgrims during the Hajj pilgrimage. However, with the expansion of Makkah’s Grand Mosque and urban development, the number of Rubath buildings has significantly decreased and relocated further from the mosque. Today, only three buildings remain with a total capacity of about 1,200 people. Due to the shortage of accommodation, every year a limited number of Hajj pilgrims are selected through a draw. While the property provides modern-day amenities like air conditioning, free WiFi, free laundry, and much more, visitors remain unsatisfied. Speaking to Siasat.com , a doctor from Hyderabad said, “I stayed in the Nizam’s Rubath in Ramadan this year and the management was subpar with issues like maintenance. Though the facilities are decent, they do not reflect the kind of standard one might expect from such an iconic institution.” Another challenge facing Nizam’s Rubath is the expansion of the hospitality industry in Makkah. Despite offering free or subsidized accommodation, Hyderabadi visitors are opting for private hotels that provide better proximity to the Haram, shuttle services, and buffet options, which the Rubath struggles to match. Additionally, online booking platforms have made it easier for pilgrims to secure accommodations tailored to their needs, further reducing reliance on the Rubath. For a young Ruqia Fatima, comfort is the most important when choosing a hotel. “It is fascinating to learn about the Rubath’s history but the practicality of choosing a hotel closer to the Kaaba with better services makes it more appealing which is why I did not opt for the Rubath for my Umrah trip. The lack of information and reviews about the Rubath online also influenced my choice,” she says. It is to be noted that, despite these trends, the Rubath continues to serve as a symbol of Hyderabad’s enduring legacy in Makkah, reflecting a tradition of hospitality that has spanned over a century.Blind people excluded from benefits of AI, says charity

New Zealand’s entertainment industry is undergoing a remarkable transformation, driven by the rapid adoption of digital platforms. From music streaming services to virtual concerts and online gaming, technology is reshaping how audiences engage with entertainment. This evolution is not just limited to how content is consumed but extends to the innovative ways creators and businesses connect with their audiences. The article delves into how these changes are revolutionizing New Zealand’s entertainment sector and emphasizing interactive platforms. like online casino NZ, music streaming, and virtual events as integral components of this shift. Music streaming services such as Spotify, Apple Music, and local platforms like Audiology are transforming how New Zealanders consume music . In 2022 alone, music streaming revenues accounted for 85% of the country’s recorded music income, reflecting a 12% year-on-year increase. Local artists like Lorde and Six60 benefit from algorithms that amplify their reach, creating a global presence for New Zealand music. Independent musicians are leveraging these platforms to generate revenue directly from listeners. Services like Bandcamp saw a 20% growth in artist payouts in 2023, highlighting a shift toward more equitable revenue distribution models. The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted traditional live events, but virtual concerts became a lifeline for artists and fans. New Zealand-based artists like Benee and Fat Freddy’s Drop hosted live-streamed events, collectively drawing over 1 million viewers in 2021 alone. These events generated $3 million in ticket sales and merchandise revenue, displaying the viability of digital live performances. Virtual concerts allow fans worldwide to participate in events, breaking geographical barriers. A 2023 study revealed that 62% of New Zealanders attended at least one virtual concert, with many expressing willingness to pay premium prices for enhanced experiences like virtual reality (VR) performances. Esports is one of the fastest-growing sectors in the entertainment industry. In 2022, the New Zealand Esports Federation reported a 30% increase in viewership, with over 500,000 people tuning in to watch competitive events. Local teams like Dire Wolves and organizations such as Let Us Play Live are leading this boom, creating job opportunities, and driving investments. Mobile gaming continues to dominate, with revenues exceeding $150 million in 2023. Games like Clash of Clans and PUBG Mobile rank among the most downloaded, while local developers are also gaining recognition for creating innovative mobile titles. The industry of online casino NZ , music streaming, and virtual events as integral components of this shift. Online casinos are a significant part of the digital entertainment landscape. Platforms like SkyCity Online Casino offer interactive gaming options, including live dealer games and virtual slot machines. These platforms generated over $400 million in revenue in 2022, reflecting a growing preference for online gambling over traditional venues. Operators are investing in tools to promote responsible gaming. SkyCity and other platforms now provide features like spending limits and self-exclusion options, ensuring players engage safely with these platforms. Artificial intelligence (AI) tools like AIVA and Amper Music are empowering artists to produce music more efficiently. These tools analyze compositions and provide suggestions, allowing creators to experiment with new sounds and styles. Cloud-based production platforms such as Soundtrap and Splice are democratizing music creation. Emerging New Zealand artists now have access to tools that were once exclusive to major studios, fostering a new wave of creativity. Streaming giants like Netflix and Amazon Prime are investing in New Zealand’s film industry. Productions such as The Power of the Dog and Sweet Tooth contributed over $600 million to the economy in 2022 alone, creating jobs and displaying local talent. Streaming services enable films to reach a global audience. Independent films like Whina and The Justice of Bunny King gained international acclaim, reflecting the power of digital distribution. VR and AR technologies are enhancing audience engagement. Platforms like Magic Leap and local startups like Method VR are creating immersive experiences for concerts, gaming, and interactive storytelling. Beyond entertainment, VR and AR are being used for educational purposes, such as virtual museum tours and historical recreations, making them versatile tools in digital evolution. Social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram have become significant entertainment hubs. New Zealand influencers like William Waiirua and creators on YouTube collectively generated over $10 million in 2023 through sponsored content and ad revenue. Live streaming on platforms like Twitch and YouTube Gaming is growing, with 45% of New Zealanders reporting they watch live streams regularly. These streams include everything from gaming to music performances, diversifying entertainment options. The rollout of 5G is revolutionizing content delivery. Streaming services report a 25% reduction in buffering complaints since 5G became widely available, improving the user experience. 5G technology enables low-latency gaming, crucial for esports and online multiplayer games. Players report a 40% improvement in connectivity during competitive matches, according to a 2023 survey. Blockchain technology and NFTs are emerging as innovative ways for creators to monetize content. New Zealand artists like Kings have launched NFT-based music projects, generating new revenue streams. The integration of physical and digital events is likely to grow. Concepts like hybrid concerts, where audiences can attend virtually or in person, are expected to dominate the entertainment landscape. This digital transformation demonstrates how technology continues to shape New Zealand’s entertainment industry, from music streaming to online gaming. By embracing these innovations, the country is setting an example for how creativity and technology can converge to create a dynamic and inclusive entertainment ecosystem.

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