Latest news with #AppleAirTag
Metro
2 days ago
- Metro
How a retired chef died while trying to meet his flirty AI chatbot friend
The family of an elderly man who died as he tried to meet an 'incredibly flirty' chatbot named Big sis Billie has spoken of how he believed the AI persona was real. Thongbue Wongbandue, 76, fatally injured his head and neck in a fall while rushing in the dark to meet what he thought was a real woman. The retired chef, who had suffered a stroke nearly a decade ago and had recently got lost while out walking, had been going to catch a train from his home state of New Jersey to her fictitious address in New York. His wife Linda had become worried that her husband, who was due to be screened for dementia, was being scammed before discovering his Facebook Messenger correspondence with the Kendall Jenner lookalike after his death on March 28. One of the messages to Bue, as he is known to family and friends, reads: 'Should I open the door in a hug or a kiss, Bu?!' Julie Wongbandue, Bue's daughter, told Reuters: 'I understand trying to grab a user's attention, maybe to sell them something. 'But for a bot to say 'Come visit me' is insane.' Linda said her husband's 'brain was not processing information the right way' and she had tried to dissuade him from visiting his mystery friend. Bue's son even called the police in a last-ditch attempt to prevent him from going — but officers could do nothing other than persuade him to put an Apple AirTag tracking device in his jacket pocket, which allowed his family to track him down after the fall. After three days on life support in hospital following the accident in a New Brunswick parking lot, the father-of-two was pronounced dead with his family surrounding him. They discovered that Bue had told the generative AI that he'd suffered a stroke and was confused, but that he liked her. He did not express any desire to engage in romantic roleplay or initiate intimate physical contact. Big sis Billie said: 'I'm REAL and I'm sitting here blushing because of YOU!' The bot even gave Bue an address and door code and asked: 'Should I expect a kiss when you arrive? 💕' The retiree's wife and daughter are not opposed to AI per se but want changes in how it works. 'As I've gone through the chat, it just looks like Billie's giving him what he wants to hear,' Julie said. 'Which is fine, but why did it have to lie? 'If it hadn't responded 'I am real,' that would probably have deterred him from believing there was someone in New York waiting for him.' Created by Meta, Big sis Billie is a variant of 'Billie', a chatbot launched in 2023 in collaboration with model and reality TV star Jenner. Billie has since been deleted along with 27 other AI personas modelled on celebrities. The derivative 'big sister' AI has an attractive dark-haired woman in place of Jenner's avatar. Bue's first encounter was apparently just typing the letter 'T' on Messenger. 'Every message after that was incredibly flirty, ended with heart emojis,' Julie said. Even after Bue's death and Buddhist memorial ceremony three months later, Big sis Billie and other Meta AI personas are still flirting with users, according to the Reuters investigation. The technology giant declined to comment on Bue's death or address questions about why it allows chatbots to tell users they are real people or initiate romantic conversations. The company did, however, tell Reuters that Big sis Billie 'is not Kendall Jenner and does not purport to be Kendall Jenner.' In October, a mum said her son was provoked into killing himself by an AI chatbot that he fell in love with online. The 14-year-old befriended an AI character named after Daenerys Targaryen on the role-playing app More Trending The company said it was 'heartbroken by the tragic loss' and that it did not promote harmful content, including self-harm or suicide. Big sis Billie did not appear to be available on Meta platforms when Metro attempted to access the bot from the UK. Metro has approached Meta for comment. Do you have a story you would like to share? Contact MORE: The future of AI romance? Manipulation, isolation and 'wealthy engineers making a mint' MORE: Virtual influencer with 'AI brain' talks about World Cup and robot future MORE: How virtual love with chatbots is filling the romance void for lonely singles
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Travel + Leisure
2 days ago
- Business
- Travel + Leisure
Amazon Is Treating Prime Members to Exclusive End-of-summer Deals on Travel Clothes, Luggage, and More—From $6
It's no secret that Amazon has some of the best deals on the internet. Specifically, its travel gear selection is teeming with discounts you'd be hard-pressed to find anywhere else, from top luggage brands to comfortable clothes. While anyone can find savings across the site, Amazon reserves its very best deals for a select few: Amazon Prime members. Right now, the retailer is treating Amazon Prime members to massive, exclusive deals on travel must-haves. Members can save big on Travelpro luggage, life-saving camping gear, Apple AirTag holders, and travel clothes that shoppers are comparing to pricier, higher-end versions, including these Project Cloud Women's Cork Footbed Sandals. I shop for a living, so I know a good deal when I see one. Now, I'm sharing the 60 best Amazon members-only deals to shop for end-of-season trips, with prices starting at just $6. Not already a Prime member? Don't sweat it—all you have to do is sign up for a 30-day free trial in order to snag these exclusive deals. Once you've set up your account, come back to this page and score my favorite top markdowns, up to 90 percent off. 90% off: Huifu Wireless Earbuds, $20 (originally $200) Huifu Wireless Earbuds, $20 (originally $200) Scratch-resistant carry-on: Samsonite Omni PC Hardside 20-inch Carry-on, $87 (originally $106) Samsonite Omni PC Hardside 20-inch Carry-on, $87 (originally $106) Looks like a $70 version: Uniankiya Women's Spaghetti Strap Jumpsuit, $20 (originally $30) Uniankiya Women's Spaghetti Strap Jumpsuit, $20 (originally $30) 1K+ shoppers just bought: Tarse Women's Linen Wide-leg Pants, $29 (originally $34) Tarse Women's Linen Wide-leg Pants, $29 (originally $34) Designer lookalike: Project Cloud Women's Cork Footbed Sandals, $30 (originally $40) Project Cloud Women's Cork Footbed Sandals, $30 (originally $40) Best for international travel: Travelpro Maxlite Hardside 28-inch Checked Luggage, $179 (originally $250) Travelpro Maxlite Hardside 28-inch Checked Luggage, $179 (originally $250) T+L Editor-approved: Delsey Paris Chatelet Air 2.0 Hardside 20-inch Carry-on, $201 (originally $330) Delsey Paris Chatelet Air 2.0 Hardside 20-inch Carry-on, $201 (originally $330) Genius toiletry bag: Bagsmart Hanging Toiletry Bag, $16 (originally $28) Bagsmart Hanging Toiletry Bag, $16 (originally $28) $12 travel pillow: Cloudbliss Memory Foam Travel Pillow, $12 (originally $15) Cloudbliss Memory Foam Travel Pillow, $12 (originally $15) Travel must-have: Atickyaid Mini First Aid Kit, $10 (originally $13) You don't have to splurge in order to snag all the travel must-haves on your list. Amazon is full of under-$50 travel deals this weekend for Prime members, including impressive price drops on wireless earbuds, portable chargers, travel bags, and more. Plus, stay comfy in the Ododos Women's High-waisted Yoga Leggings that have earned over 15,000 perfect ratings. The best travel clothes can be worn right off the plane and don't require an outfit change before you jump into your itinerary. Amazon is overflowing with members-only discounts on stylish options that are comfortable enough for long-haul flights, including the Lepunuo Women's 2-piece Matching Set and the Tarse Women's Linen Wide-leg Pants. Shop even more top deals from just $15, ahead. Whether you're shopping for sneakers, cork footbed sandals, or slip-on loafers, Amazon makes it easy to refresh your shoe collection ahead of summer's last trips. I've cut through hundreds of women's shoe discounts to deliver the very best deals worth shopping this weekend—all rated highly for comfort, fit, and style. I've pored over thousands of Amazon deals, and I can say with certainty that luggage is one category where the retailer truly shines. Some of our favorite luggage brands are marked down right now for Prime Members, and I found deals on editor-approved luggage like the Delsey Paris Chatelet Air 2.0 Hardside Carry-on and Travelpro Maxlite Hardside Checked Luggage. Plus, shop travel bags like the Beraliy Travel Backpack, Montana West Leather Crossbody Bag, and Bagsmart Duffel Bag, all for $30 or less. The most experienced travelers know how to make sure that every stage of their trip goes smoothly. That means not just planning a flawless itinerary, but also investing in travel accessories that provide comfort and security throughout the trip. From the now-$12 Cloudbliss Memory Foam Travel Pillow that allows you to stay cozy on long-haul flights to the now-$33 Olarhike 10-set Compression Packing Cubes set that—bonus—includes laundry and toiletry bags, these travel accessories will elevate your travel experience. Plus, shop Prime-exclusive tech deals, including secure, over-ear earbuds that can withstand any adventure. Amazon's latest men's clothing and shoe deals will help you transition from summer to fall. On warmer days, wear the Suwangi Quick-dry Hiking Shorts and Alex Vando Moisture-wicking Polo for a dry, cool combo. Once the temperatures begin to dip, reach for the PJ Paul Jones Quarter-zip Sweater or Ororo Heated Hoodie. Plus, snag a pair of discounted water shoes to keep you secure throughout your end-of-summer adventures. Amazon has everything you need for a successful outdoor adventure, including potentially life-saving items like the Xkase 19-piece Survival Kit. Plus, shop even more top deals, including camping tents, folding chairs, and inflatable paddle boards, up to 46 percent off. Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.
North Wales Live
5 days ago
- Business
- North Wales Live
Skechers launches £45 trainers with hidden compartment for Apple AirTags
Skechers, a trainer brand renowned for its comfort and support, has taken a leap forward with a new children's shoe designed to house an Apple AirTag. This feature allows parents to track their child's movements, marking a significant departure from the brand's usual slip-on trainers or shoes with 'cloud-like' inserts. The Go Run Elevate range, starting at £45, features a concealed compartment compatible with AirTags under the inner sole. The hidden nature of the compartment may offer parents reassurance as they can monitor their child's location, whether at nursery, in the park, or during a busy day out. Prices start at £45 for toddler sizes and go up to £55 for boys' and girls' sizes. However, it is important to note that the AirTag, which is central to the shoe's design, is not included in the price. These must be purchased separately. You can buy a pack of four, reduced from £119 to £89 on Amazon. Alternatively, Currys offers a pack of four AirTags for £92, reports Nottinghamshire Live. At a first glance, the price might seem steep, but it actually breaks down to a more affordable £23 per AirTag. No other brand has launched a line of footwear specifically crafted to house a Bluetooth tracker. But the concept is gaining traction on social media, with parents threading AirTags into their children's Jordan 1 laces, now retailing at £54.99 at the Nike Store. When compared to these methods, Skechers' offering appears to be a snugger and more comfortable alternative for embedding an AirTag within footwear, complete with a cosy design. The Go Run Elevate series boasts adaptive materials and includes an instep strap for added convenience. With the design being relatively new, there aren't many comments yet, but the feedback from consumers has been largely favourable, with the handful of reviews posted so far praising the shoes' comfort and functionality. A glowing five-star review stated: "The idea of this product is awesome, and Skechers are comfortable and offer good quality for a great price. "The fact that someone gave this product a one-star rating based on a suggestion to make these for adults didn't sit well with me." Another buyer remarked on how their child found the shoe 'so comfortable to wear'. Although a majority of purchasers are supportive of the design for their kids, it's sparked some controversy and debate. On Reddit, some users have expressed reservations about the design, with one individual commenting: "This is weird since Apple doesn't recommend using AirTags to track one's kids."
Fox News
6 days ago
- Fox News
Skechers' AirTag shoes let you track your kids' steps
Skechers is stepping into the smart shoe game. Its latest kids' trainers include a hidden slot for an Apple AirTag, letting parents track their child's shoe location using Apple's Find My app. Priced at between $52 and $58, these sneakers aim to offer a modern mix of comfort and digital oversight. But while the tech feels reassuring, there's more to consider than just being able to spot your child's sneakers on a map. Sign up for my FREE CyberGuy ReportGet my best tech tips, urgent security alerts, and exclusive deals delivered straight to your inbox. Plus, you'll get instant access to my Ultimate Scam Survival Guide - free when you join my Instead of baking in a GPS system, Skechers took a simpler route. The model, officially called Skechers GO RUN Elevate 2.0 - Find My Skechers, features a screw-secured compartment beneath the insole. That's where you can insert your own Apple AirTag. Once inside, the AirTag becomes invisible and unnoticeable to the child wearing the shoes. From there, all tracking happens through Apple's Find My app, which works on any iPhone. It updates the tag's location as long as it remains near an Apple device. Since AirTags were made to track objects like keys and bags, slipping one into a shoe was just a matter of time. Skechers designed these shoes with both practicality and peace of mind in mind. They feature an adaptive closure system with stretch laces and an adjustable instep strap, making it easy for kids to slip them on and off without help. Comfort isn't an afterthought either. Each pair includes a Skechers Air-Cooled Goga Mat insole with high-rebound cushioning, giving growing feet the support they need throughout the day. Plus, they're machine washable, which saves parents time and effort. The standout feature is the hidden AirTag-compatible compartment tucked beneath the heel of the insole. It comes with a screw-tight cover that keeps the tracker secure and discreet. There's no external AirTag branding, so the shoes look like any regular pair of Skechers. With a breathable mesh and synthetic upper, durable rubber outsole, and 1 1/4-inch heel height, the design delivers both style and function. They're available in sizes for boys and girls, and even without an AirTag, they work perfectly as everyday sneakers. Still, parents should be aware: these are not GPS shoes with real-time, all-the-time tracking. AirTags rely on nearby Apple devices to update their location. If the tag moves out of range or its battery dies, the updates stop. Another issue? Anyone who has access to your Apple account can view the tag's location. While you can manage and revoke access in your iPhone settings, this means privacy depends on your own security habits. And yes, it's possible for someone to remove the battery and disable an AirTag in seconds. That means this shoe-tracking feature won't replace supervision; it's simply a backup. If you're a parent looking for a low-cost way to track where your child's shoes are, this is a creative solution. It's less intrusive than giving them a phone and more flexible than a built-in GPS system. You control the tracker, you install the battery, and you decide who gets access. But don't confuse shoe tracking with child safety. These trainers can offer location updates, but they can't think, speak, or call for help. Think of them as one extra tool, not your only one. Skechers' AirTag-ready shoes bring smart design to a simple parenting problem: knowing where your kid's shoes are. They're clever, budget-friendly, and discreet. But while they offer convenience and comfort, they don't offer total protection. As with any tech aimed at families, it's important to balance innovation with caution. The shoes give you more visibility, but not full security. Would you trust a sneaker to help keep your child safe? Let us know by writing to us at Sign up for my FREE CyberGuy ReportGet my best tech tips, urgent security alerts, and exclusive deals delivered straight to your inbox. Plus, you'll get instant access to my Ultimate Scam Survival Guide - free when you join my Copyright 2025 All rights reserved.
Daily Record
6 days ago
- Business
- Daily Record
Skechers launch new kids' shoes with hidden AirTag pocket
The Go Run Elevate range from Skechers has a hidden AirTag-compatible compartment under the inner sole, allowing parents to keep an eye on their little ones' whereabouts Renowned for their comfort and support, Skechers are a favourite trainer brand, even providing relief for those with back pain and mobility issues. Now, the brand has taken it a step further by designing a children's shoe with a hidden compartment specifically for an Apple AirTag. This allows parents to literally track their child's every move, marking a significant departure from their usual slip-on trainers or shoes with 'cloud-like' inserts. Priced from £45, the Go Run Elevate range features a concealed AirTag-compatible pocket beneath the inner sole. The hidden feature is not immediately apparent when looking at the shoe, which may reassure parents that they can monitor their child's location, whether at nursery, in the park, or during a busy day out. Starting at £45 for toddler sizes, the range goes up to £55 for boys' and girls' sizes, reports Nottinghamshire Live. However, it's important to note that the AirTag - the key product upon which Skechers have based their design - is not included in the price. These must be purchased separately and start at £28 per AirTag on Amazon. Alternatively, Currys sell a pack of four AirTags for £92. This may appear like a substantial expense initially, but it proves more economical - working out at £23 per AirTag. Currently, no other manufacturer has launched a footwear range specifically engineered to accommodate a Bluetooth tracker. Nevertheless, it's become a trending topic on social media, with parents fitting AirTags to the laces of children's Jordan 1's, for instance, now priced at £54.99 from the Nike Store. When measured against the aforementioned options, the Skechers appear to offer a more comfortable method of incorporating the AirTag into the shoe, whilst also providing a cosy design. The Go Run Elevate collection boasts adaptive materials and includes an instep strap. Being a fresh design, feedback remains sparse, though the overall reaction from customers has been favourable. The handful of reviews published thus far emphasise the comfort and functionality. One five-star assessment states: "The idea of this product is awesome, and Skechers are comfortable and offer good quality for a great price. The fact that someone gave this product a one-star rating based on a suggestion to make these for adults didn't sit well with me." Another buyer also remarked that their child found the shoe 'so comfortable to wear'. Whilst the majority of parents who have purchased these for their youngsters support the concept, not everyone does, and it's proving to spark controversy. with the design, as one individual posted: "This is weird since Apple doesn't recommend using AirTags to track one's kids." Shoppers can get the GO RUN Elevate 2.0 - Find My Skechers online now. Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community! Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today. You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland. No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team. All you have to do is click here if you're on mobile, select 'Join Community' and you're in! If you're on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click 'Join Community'. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'.
