Latest news with #customerService
Forbes
a day ago
- Business
- Forbes
Klarna, Etsy, And A Driverless Truck Company Learn A Few Harsh Lessons About AI
One of my favorite AI stories this year is the reckoning of Swedish Buy-Now-Pay-Later platform Klarna. "Klarna's AI assistant handles two-thirds of customer service chats in its first month!" the company giddily announced to the public in early 2024, further trumpeting that it did the work of '700 customer service agents.' And that wasn't all. "About 12 months ago, we would have been about 5,000 active positions within the company, and we are now down to about 3,800," the company's CEO said last September. "By simply not hiring, which we haven't done since September ... the company is kind of becoming smaller and smaller.' Replacing people with AI. Great idea! Except…not. Just a few weeks ago Klarna's CEO - who literally used an AI doppelganger to deliver an earnings report - admitted to Bloomberg that the company is "slowing down its job cuts" and getting back to hiring real people to do customer service because the company discovered that people actually want to talk to people. Separately, a representative from Klarna said that the company is "not reversing on AI" and is "continuing to invest heavily in AI, including rebuilding our tech stack to be AI-first.' But the company also admitted that their CEO "acknowledged that an overemphasis on cost—not AI itself—led to lower quality." Turn's out Klarna's not the only company experiencing buyer's remorse from AI. For example, a company that announced "driverless trucks" built on an AI platform that would be rolling through Texas recently discovered that they actually needed drivers after all. Translation company Duolingo aspired to replacing their translators with AI bots only to change course after a backlash from its community. Etsy has faced similar backlash from its community thanks to non-human-looking-AI-generated products flooding its system. After firing 8,000 employees in order to replace them with AI systems, IBM wound up re-hiring many due to "gaps in service, dips in employee morale, and delays in resolution." Australian telecom company Optus, after attempting to automate functions with AI, turned around once it found that AI couldn't handle many issues as well as humans. McDonalds ended its drive-through AI-based ordering test after discovering that humans could do a better job servicing their customers. Which is why it should be new surprise that a recent report by organizational design and planning platform firm Orgvue found that as much as 55 percent of companies that had laid off staff due to AI automation now regret the decision. According to the report "these companies found that AI could not fully replicate the nuanced understanding and adaptability of human workers, leading to a reevaluation of their workforce strategies and a renewed emphasis on human roles." Uh…duh? This stuff just isn't ready for prime time in 2025. And companies who think that they can use AI instead of humans this year are going to learn the same lessons as Klarna, McDonalds and others. I stayed at a Marriot conference resort recently and called to find out if the restaurant was still open. A very human-like bot answered my call, and at first I thought it was a real person. But I figured out quickly that it wasn't. Something was Just like you can sense someone else in a room with your eyes closed, humans innately know when they're not dealing with another human. We quickly figure out when we're talking to a bot. Maybe not right away. But give me just 60 seconds on the phone with an automated, AI-driven voice and I'll be able to figure out that the "person" on the other end isn't a person. AI isn't yet capable to respond quickly, jump back and forth between questions and issues and generally behave like a human. All you have to do is ask a personal question or veer off track from the main conversation and most AI bots get confused and then sound like…a bot. How many times do you furiously punch "0" on the phone the minute an automated system picks up? Navigating through these help desk mazes can be infuriating and time consuming. But that doesn't mean there isn't a role for AI. A good customer service system using AI will eliminate the "press 1 for customer service, press 2 for sales, etc." with a human-like voice asking questions and (hopefully) giving answers quickly. But therein lies the most important thing: if an answer can't be gotten quickly or if the caller simply wants to vent to a human, there has to be quick way to take the red pill (or is it the blue pill?) and get out of the Matrix. My advice to companies is to understand that people do want to talk to people sometimes and to understand that not every question is a simple question. Be transparent when a bot answers the phone and give us a way out. Don't get rid of your customer service staff. Use AI to screen and answer low-level questions and then use your humans for everything else. 'Humans deeply care about what other humans think—it's something that seems hardwired into us,' OpenAI's CEO Sam Altman said last year at a conference. 'While we may keep developing better tools, our focus will always return to one another.' Many companies think they're doing the world a favor by issuing press releases advertising their AI investments. My advice: don't. It's simply bad PR. Klarna made the mistake of gleefully telling the world how they're literally replacing humans with AI. Now they look dumb. Please don't advertise how you're replacing people with AI. Don't be like the Shopify CEO who publicly stated that it has to be proven that any new job can't be done with AI. He looks like a villain. No one wants to hear it. Keep it to yourself. Many workers are terrified of losing their jobs and when a company like Shopify does this kind of stuff it says to them: we don't care about you. Good luck finding talent after that. Who wants to work for a company that considers their people so value-less that they'll not only replace them with bots but tell the universe how smart they are by doing so? AI is great and it will get better. But never believe that it will be good enough to fully replace a human interaction. It never will.
The Sun
a day ago
- Business
- The Sun
Marks & Spencer urgently recalls popular baby product due to ‘safety complaints' & warns ‘return it immediately'
MARKS & Spencer has urgently recalled a popular baby product due to customer "safety complaints". The retail giant has warned buyers that they must return the item immediately. 1 Polarn O. Pyret Branded Poppy Print Rompers have been recalled due to safety complaints. Parents and carers of little ones have been asked to check their homes to see if they have the affected product. The recall has been made for the T94 8409A model in size 1-12 months old, which was sold online at M&S. The company said: "Polarn O. Pyret has issued a Product Recall due to safety complaints with their Poppy Print Romper, T94 8409A in the specified sizes 1-12 Months". The online-only product means that affected items were not available to purchase from physical M&S stores during the original purchase period. Those who bought the romper or received it as a gift have been urged to "return it immediately" at any M&S Clothing store. A full refund will be issued upon return. M&S have said that further support is also being offered and if customers have further questions, they can call the company's customer service line at 0333 014 8555. M&S has apologised for any inconvenience caused to shoppers. The news comes after a popular car seat has been banned by trading authorities over "serious" suffocation fears. And an urgent warning was issued about tumble dryers sold in the UK that pose a fire risk as owners are told to 'stop using immediately'. Milk is urgently pulled from shelves over traces of deadly bacteria which kills one in 20 In another product recall - milk was urgently pulled from shelves over traces of deadly bacteria which kills one in 20. There was also an urgent recall of popular product bought on TikTok over the possibility of an electric shock risk. And Asda urgently recalled £12 baby clothing over a 'risk of injury' to tots as parents were warned to 'stop using immediately'. A Health food brand also urgently recalled a popular snack over fears as shoppers warned 'do not eat'. Your product recall rights Chief consumer reporter James Flanders reveals all you need to know. Product recalls are an important means of protecting consumers from dangerous goods. As a general rule, if a recall involves a branded product, the manufacturer would usually have lead responsibility for the recall action. But it's often left up to supermarkets to notify customers when products could put them at risk. If you are concerned about the safety of a product you own, always check the manufacturer's website to see if a safety notice has been issued. When it comes to appliances, rather than just food items, the onus is usually on you - the customer - to register the appliance with the manufacturer as if you don't there is no way of contacting you to tell you about a fault. If you become aware that an item you own has been recalled or has any safety noticed issued against it, make sure you follow the instructions given to you by the manufacturer. They should usually provide you with more information and a contact number on its safety notice. In some cases, the manufacturer might ask you to return the item for a full refund or arrange for the faulty product to be collected. You should not be charged for any recall work - such as a repair, replacement or collection of the recalled item It came after Lidl recently told shoppers not to eat one of its savoury snacks over fears it could contain salmonella. And just last month, Iceland recalled its Vegetable Lasagne after the possible presence of hard plastic pieces was discovered in packs with best-before dates of 23 July 2026 and 30 July 2026. A popular pasta sauce was also urgently recalled from supermarket shelves after fears emerged that some jars contained shards of glass.
Associated Press
a day ago
- Business
- Associated Press
Apollo Moving Announces Expansion to the 8 Main Ontario Canadian Location Hubs in the Toronto GTA Area
Mississauga, ON – Apollo Moving, an award-winning relocation company, is thrilled to announce the expansion to the 8 main Ontario Canadian location hubs in the Toronto GTA area: Mississauga, Toronto, Welland, Brampton, Oshawa, North York, Caledon, and Barrie. To mark this impressive milestone, the triple B-accredited business has also launched a new website, to offer customers a more immersive and user-friendly experience. With years of expertise in the moving industry, the Apollo Moving Brampton movers strive to deliver a high-quality service that exceeds industry standards by providing professional, full-service moving, packing, and storage solutions tailored to each customer's unique needs. The recent expansion enables the highly trained team of skilled movers to offer more home and business owners the opportunity to experience an efficient and hassle-free move. 'At Apollo Moving, we take pride in being industry leaders in professional moving and packing services, delivering seamless, stress-free relocations for homes and businesses alike,' said a spokesperson for Apollo Moving Toronto movers. 'Our experienced team is committed to providing top-tier customer service, handling every move with precision, care, and efficiency.' With a customer-centric approach in mind, Apollo Moving prioritizes a punctual and professional service provided by a team of uniformed movers who guarantee transparent pricing and no hidden fees. The moving specialists boast a fleet of modern moving trucks and cutting-edge equipment that ensures the safe handling and transportation of a customer's items, whether embarking on a local or long-distance move. From expert packing and loading to efficient transportation and storage solutions, Some of Apollo Moving's services include: Residential Moving: With a commitment to offering personalized residential moving plans customized to each customer's specific schedule and budget, the top moving company provides a hassle-free service that prioritizes homeowners' needs to ensure a smooth and well-organized relocation experience. Commercial Moving: Understanding the meticulous planning required for relocating an office, warehouse, or corporate building, Apollo Moving provides specialized commercial moving solutions that ensure minimal downtime and a smooth transition by a professional team equipped to handle office furniture, equipment, and sensitive documents with precision and care. Storage and Packing Services: To offer customers an all-inclusive moving experience, Apollo Moving Mississauga movers provide storage and packing services to ensure a seamless relocation experience. With both short-term and long-term storage options tailored to individual needs and professional packing services that include full-service packing, fragile packing, moving supplies, and custom crating solutions, the company goes the extra mile to help protect customers' valuables. Whether moving locally, long-distance, or across borders, Apollo Moving is dedicated to delivering a stress-free move that emphasizes reliability, punctuality, and exceptional customer service from start to finish. Apollo Moving invites home and business owners in Mississauga, Toronto, Welland, Brampton, Oshawa, North York, Caledon, and Barrie searching for an industry-leading moving service to fill out the contact form provided via the website to schedule their next move with the Canadian relocation experts today. About Apollo Moving Apollo Moving is an award-winning Canadian relocation company renowned for providing reliable, professional, and affordable moving services that consistently exceed customer expectations. With a focus on customer satisfaction, transparency, and efficiency, Apollo Moving delivers a stress-free moving experience for both residential and commercial clients in Mississauga, Toronto, Welland, Brampton, Oshawa, North York, Caledon, and Barrie. More Information To learn more about Apollo Moving and the expansion to the 8 main Ontario Canadian location hubs in the Toronto GTA area, please visit the website at Source: Legal Disclaimer: EIN Presswire provides this news content 'as is' without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the author above.
Geeky Gadgets
2 days ago
- Business
- Geeky Gadgets
Create AI Voices So Real, You'll Forget They're Not Human
Imagine a world where your favorite audiobook is narrated by a voice so lifelike, you'd swear it belonged to a seasoned actor—or where a virtual assistant greets you with warmth and empathy, adapting its tone to your mood. This isn't science fiction; it's the reality of today's AI voice generators, tools that are not only reshaping how we communicate but also redefining what's possible in storytelling, customer service, and beyond. These systems, powered by innovative deep learning algorithms, can replicate the nuances of human speech with stunning accuracy, from subtle inflections to emotional depth. In an era where authenticity and efficiency are paramount, AI voice technology is emerging as a fantastic option, bridging the gap between human and machine interaction. Kevin Stratvert explores the best AI voice generators currently available, diving into their unique capabilities and the industries they're transforming. From creating immersive entertainment experiences to transforming education and business communication, these tools offer a glimpse into the future of voice technology. You'll discover how expressive voice synthesis is setting new standards for realism, why customization is critical for tailoring voices to specific needs, and how ethical considerations are shaping the responsible use of this technology. Whether you're a creator, educator, or entrepreneur, the possibilities are as exciting as they are endless. So, what does the future of communication sound like? Let's find out. AI Voice Generators Overview How AI Voice Generation Operates AI voice generators use advanced voice synthesis technology powered by deep learning algorithms. These systems analyze and replicate human speech patterns to produce voices that sound both authentic and expressive. Unlike traditional text-to-speech systems, modern AI tools can mimic tone, emotion, and subtle inflections, making them ideal for applications that require a human-like touch. For instance, audiobook narrations now feature voices capable of conveying emotion, immersing listeners in the narrative. Similarly, virtual assistants equipped with conversational tones create more natural and engaging interactions, enhancing user satisfaction. This ability to replicate human nuances has set a new standard for voice technology, making it a valuable asset in various domains. Applications Across Diverse Industries AI voice generators are proving to be versatile tools, transforming workflows and enhancing efficiency across multiple industries. Here are some of the most prominent applications: Entertainment: AI-generated voices are widely used for voiceovers in films, video games, and advertisements. They help reduce production time while maintaining high-quality output, allowing creative teams to focus on other aspects of production. AI-generated voices are widely used for voiceovers in films, video games, and advertisements. They help reduce production time while maintaining high-quality output, allowing creative teams to focus on other aspects of production. Education: E-learning platforms use AI voices to deliver engaging lessons, including language tutorials, interactive modules, and personalized learning experiences. These tools make education more accessible and adaptable to diverse learning styles. E-learning platforms use AI voices to deliver engaging lessons, including language tutorials, interactive modules, and personalized learning experiences. These tools make education more accessible and adaptable to diverse learning styles. Customer Service: Virtual assistants and chatbots powered by AI provide accurate and timely responses to customer inquiries. This improves user satisfaction while allowing human agents to focus on complex or high-priority tasks. For example, businesses can integrate AI voice generators into their customer service systems to handle routine inquiries, making sure faster response times and consistent service quality. In education, multilingual voice support can make learning accessible to a global audience, breaking down language barriers and fostering inclusivity. Best AI Voice Generators 2025 Watch this video on YouTube. Master AI voice generators with the help of our in-depth articles and helpful guides. Key Features to Consider When Choosing an AI Voice Generator Selecting the right AI voice generator depends on your specific needs and objectives. Here are some critical features to evaluate: Voice Quality: High-quality, natural, and expressive voices are essential for maximizing user engagement and making sure a professional output. High-quality, natural, and expressive voices are essential for maximizing user engagement and making sure a professional output. Customization: Tools that allow you to adjust pitch, tone, and speed provide greater flexibility, allowing you to tailor the voice to your project's unique requirements. Tools that allow you to adjust pitch, tone, and speed provide greater flexibility, allowing you to tailor the voice to your project's unique requirements. Language Support: Multilingual capabilities are crucial for reaching diverse audiences and making sure accessibility across different regions and cultures. For instance, a marketing team targeting international audiences might prioritize tools with customizable accents and extensive language support to ensure their campaigns resonate effectively. Similarly, educators can benefit from tools that offer a variety of voices to cater to different learning environments and preferences. Advancements in Expressive Voice Synthesis Recent advancements in AI voice synthesis have focused on creating voices that are not only lifelike but also emotionally expressive. By incorporating subtle nuances such as tone shifts, pauses, and inflections, these systems simulate human-like interactions that feel personal and relatable. This capability is particularly valuable in storytelling applications, such as audiobook narration, where conveying emotion can significantly enhance the listener's experience. Virtual assistants equipped with empathetic tones can also foster better user satisfaction, making interactions feel more human and less mechanical. These innovations are paving the way for more immersive and meaningful communication in both personal and professional contexts. Ethical Considerations and Responsible Use While AI voice generators offer numerous benefits, they also raise important ethical concerns. One of the most significant challenges is the potential misuse of deepfake technology, which can replicate a person's voice with high accuracy. This poses risks such as spreading misinformation, committing fraud, or violating privacy. To address these concerns, developers are implementing safeguards such as watermarking AI-generated audio and requiring explicit consent for voice replication. As a user, it is essential to approach this technology responsibly, making sure that its applications align with ethical standards and do not infringe on others' rights. By prioritizing transparency and ethical practices, you can mitigate risks while fully using the potential of AI voice generation. Responsible use not only protects individuals and organizations but also fosters trust in the technology, paving the way for its continued growth and acceptance. The Future of AI Voice Generators AI voice generators are transforming communication by allowing the creation of natural, customizable voices for a variety of applications. From enhancing customer service to producing engaging educational content, these tools provide immense value when used thoughtfully and responsibly. By understanding the underlying technology, evaluating key features, and addressing ethical considerations, you can make informed decisions and unlock the full potential of AI voice generation. As the technology evolves, it promises to redefine how we interact and communicate in the digital age. With ongoing advancements in expressive voice synthesis and increasing accessibility, AI voice generators are poised to become an integral part of our daily lives, transforming industries and enriching human connections. Media Credit: Kevin Stratvert Filed Under: AI, Top News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. 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Condé Nast Traveler
2 days ago
- Business
- Condé Nast Traveler
Top Trip.com Promo Codes & Deals for June 2025
Want to travel further for less? With timely offers, it's certainly possible–and we've gathered a few pro tips for milking the most value out of upcoming travel experiences as you can. But first, a little background on the brand: Since its inception in 2003, has been on a mission to make travel easier and more affordable for everyone. As one of the leading global travel service providers, has built a reputation for offering unbeatable prices on flights, hotels, and vacation packages, all backed by a trusted customer service team. Whether you're jet-setting across the globe or just taking a weekend getaway, easy-to-use platform and partnerships with major airlines and hotel chains make it well worth a spot in your price-checking arsenal. New users can save $70 with promo codes and coupons If you're dreaming of your next adventure, now is a great time to book with New users can unlock an exclusive Welcome Pack filled with unbeatable travel deals. 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How to get 15% off and more with app promo codes For even more deals, the platform's app is free to download and offers new and existing users access to app-only discount codes and deals. (If you need any more convincing—the app does, in fact, provide a smoother booking process and travel management—I've used it myself.) Packed with exclusive app-only promo codes, first-time app users can claim 15% off airport transfers and enjoy a 10% discount coupon, available in any currency. Save up to 50% with the student discount Students can save even more— is offering up to 50% off flights and hostel stays through its student discount program. Not only do scholars save money, but many deals also include free flight changes, cancellations, and extra baggage allowance, allowing for more flexibility. Score up to 30% off travel with these offers With unbeatable lineup of travel offers, scoring up to 30% off your next adventure is only a few clicks away. You can dive into immersive experiences with up to 25% off local attractions and tours, from bustling city escapades to iconic cultural landmarks. Every Friday through June 29, 2025, new limited-time deals roll out, including buy-one-get-one-free access to top attractions and half-off global eSIM packages—ideal for staying connected wherever your travels take you. For those looking to book smarter, bundling flights and hotels can slash up to 30% off your total, all while adding convenience. And if you're dreaming of Asia, is your gateway to vibrant, bucket-list destinations with steep savings—up to 50% off hotels in Thailand and 40% off accommodations in China. To avoid missing out, sign up for the site's deal alerts. Unlock 50% off with coupons and promo codes via rewards Frequent flyers and occasional travelers alike can unlock a world of savings through the Rewards program. This loyalty system is designed to reward wanderlust with real perks—up to 50% back in what the brand calls 'Trip Coins,' or complimentary attraction tickets, and VIP airport lounge access—just to name a few. Five distinct membership tiers ensure that the more you travel, the more you save, with each level offering elevated benefits like free global eSIM data, premium airport transfers, and priority support services. Members also gain access to private promo codes and special offers not available to the general public. Whether you're planning a spontaneous city break or an international adventure, becoming a Rewards member turns each fun booking into a smarter, more rewarding decision. Pro tips for saving more with Trip coupon codes Insider tip: Book during the weekdays and consider paying in the local currency to dodge currency conversion markups. Timing is everything—seasonal flash sales and off-peak travel dates can unlock dramatic discounts. Whether you're eyeing summer hotspots like Cancun, Honolulu, Santorini, or Paris—or sticking stateside with New York, Miami, or Nashville—you'll find your dream trip for a dreamier price on Book top summer destinations for less on If you're ready to escape to the most coveted summer spots without breaking the bank, has you covered with unbeatable prices on top destinations. Whether you're exploring the vibrant streets of New York, soaking up the sun in Miami, or savoring the local charm in New Orleans, ensures you'll get to your dream destination at a price you'll love. Even beyond the US, the world is your oyster—think tropical Singapore, the ultra-modern skyline of Hong Kong, the pure luxe of Dubai, or the rich culture of Beijing. How to use a promo code To unlock instant savings with a promo code is simple: Start by selecting your booking type, whether you're booking a flight, hotel, or a bundle. Choose your travel dates and destination, then browse the available offers. 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