Realic plan to release the Hybri digital AI partner app next year. A new app is offering the "world's first" AI-based human partner, after having been unveiled by Florida-based augmented reality company Realic. Using a combination of artificial intelligence, VR and AR, Hybri offers customizable smartphone-based virtual partners that respond to the user's personality and learn from interactions. It's due to be launched next year, and promises to provide individuals with companionship during the loneliness of coronavirus self-isolation. Planned before the coronavirus pandemic erupted, the Hybri app lets users create a partner, friend or family member. Once created, the digital partner or friend comes to life using either VR or AR, with users able to interact with them through either a smartphone alone, or through a compatible VR/AR headset.

COVID-19 is having serious implications for businesses across the globe, as they adapt to the'new normal' of operating an organization remotely. Here are seven business functions at risk and the AI solutions that could help. AI can work on identity and document verification, says Dr Terence Tse, associate professor of finance at ESCP Business School. Think of a bank, for instance, that needs to verify its customers for onboarding and compliance. This is often done by human checkers, who check payslips or driving licenses.