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Hello and welcome to today’s news from TotemoTech on August 28th, 2024. A new digital salary payment service has been introduced in Japan, marking a significant shift in how employees can receive their wages. Officially launched on August 9th, ‘PayPay給与受取’ has been designated by the Minister of Health, Labour and Welfare as the first service of its kind since the digital salary payment system was approved in April 2023. Despite the convenience of linking to bank accounts, questions arise about the benefits of directing salaries to a cashless payment platform like PayPay. As the service begins to roll out, it remains to be seen how it will be received by both employers and employees.

In other news, the ongoing challenges faced by students in Japan’s job market have come under scrutiny. The Institute of Electronics, Information and Communication Engineers has voiced concerns over the prolonged job search process, stating that students are becoming increasingly exhausted by the lengthy recruitment cycle. The organization’s president has urged stakeholders to recognize the true state of students actively participating in academic conferences and to consider their well-being during this stressful time.

In a unique initiative, Tsukuba City Mayor Tatsuya Igarashi has announced that the amount of his retirement pay will be determined through an internet vote by the city’s residents. The voting, which will take place ahead of his term expiration on November 16th, will allow citizens to assign a score from 0 to 100, with the total amount ranging from 22,000 yen to 20 million yen based on the outcome. This innovative approach aims to increase transparency and engage citizens in local governance.

On the tech front, Gatebox, known for its AI assistant device that allows users to summon virtual characters, has announced its independence from the LINE Yahoo Group. CEO Minoru Takechi expressed a desire to take risks and return to the startup environment, focusing on the evolution of generative AI technology. This move signals a new chapter for Gatebox as it seeks to innovate in the AI space.

In the realm of toys, a new digital version of the beloved Licca-chan doll has been unveiled at the Tokyo Toy Show. Dubbed ‘Licca Meets,’ this interactive doll can engage in conversations, bringing a modern twist to the classic toy and appealing to a new generation of children.

Finally, in gaming news, Sony Interactive Entertainment has announced a price increase for the PlayStation 5 and its accessories. Starting September 2nd, the retail price will rise to approximately 80,000 yen for the console, reflecting ongoing market trends and production costs. Visit JapanDailyNews.com for the news, yen exchange rates, and a daily Japanese proverb.

Keywords - japan, tech, news