New York (CNN) — A group of leading tech companies is teaming up with two teachers’ unions to train 400,000 kindergarten through 12th grade teachers in artificial intelligence over the next five years.

The National Academy of AI Instruction, announced on Tuesday, is a $23 million initiative backed by Microsoft, OpenAI, Anthropic, the national American Federation of Teachers and New York-based United Federation of Teachers. As part of the effort, the group says it will develop AI training curriculum for teachers that can be distributed online and at an in-person campus in New York City.

The announcement comes as schools, teachers and parents grapple with whether and how AI should be used in the classroom. Educators want to make sure students know how to use a technology that’s already transforming workplaces, while teachers can use AI to automate some tasks and spend more time engaging with students. But AI also raises ethical and practical questions, which often boil down to: If kids use AI to assist with schoolwork and teachers use AI to help with lesson planning or grading papers, where is the line between advancing student learning versus hindering it?

Some schools have prohibited the use of AI in classrooms, while others have embraced it. In New York City, the education department banned the use of ChatGPT from school devices and networks in 2023, before reversing course months later and developing an AI policy lab to explore the technology’s potential.

The new academy hopes to create a national model for how schools and teachers can integrate AI into their curriculum and teaching processes, without adding to the administrative work that so often burdens educators.

“AI holds tremendous promise but huge challenges—and it’s our job as educators to make sure AI serves our students and society, not the other way around,” AFT President Randi Weingarten said in a statement. “The academy is a place where educators and school staff will learn about AI—not just how it works, but how to use it wisely, safely and ethically.”

The program will include workshops, online courses and in-person trainings designed by AI experts and educators, and instruction will begin this fall. Microsoft is set to invest $12.5 million in the training effort over the next five years, and OpenAI will contribute $10 million — $2 million of which will be in in-kind resources such as computing access. Anthropic plans to invest $500 million in the project’s first year and may spend more over time.

The tech companies involved also stand to benefit by gaining feedback from teachers and potentially getting their AI tools in the hands of educators and students around the country. Similar educational partnerships have been a boon to tech companies in the past — Google Chromebooks, for example, are widely used in part because of their popularity in classrooms.

Chris Lehane, chief global affairs officer at OpenAI, told CNN at the program’s launch event in New York City on Tuesday that the trainings will be a mix of general information on how AI systems work and specific instruction on tools from Microsoft, OpenAI and Anthropic. There’s also potential for new AI products to be developed by or in partnership with the teachers.

“How can we make sure that, in the K-12 context, that we’re equipping those kids, those students, with the skills that they’re going to need to be able to succeed in what we think of as the intelligence age?” Lehane said during the event. “And you can’t do that unless it’s actually given to the teachers to do that work.”

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Prime Day is officially here and that means hefty discounts on some of our top-rated smartwatches and fitness trackers. There are options for pretty much everyone, whether you want expansive fitness tracking, smart connectivity features, or a beautiful design (or maybe all three!). Doesn’t matter if you use iOS or Android, either, because we’ve found markdowns on wearables compatible with both.

These Prime Day smartwatch deals are just getting started, but why wait? The sooner you purchase one, the sooner you’ll be able to strap it to your wrist and enjoy its features. So, let’s take a look at the best Prime Day smartwatch deals!

Samsung Smartwatch Deals

For Android users, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 is one of our top recommendations. It builds upon the high performance of the Galaxy Watch 6, adding dual-frequency GPS, more efficient software, and improved health and sleep tracking, including FDA-approved sleep apnea detection. Plus, it leverages Galaxy AI to provide a holistic Energy Score and personalized wellness tips. From fitness tracking to smart connectivity features, there’s not much this smartwatch can’t do – and it’s 47% off right now!

For serious Android-using explorers and athletes, the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra offers the technical performance and durability you need. In addition to highly detailed sleep analysis (including snore detection) and multisport tracking, it features AI-based recommendations to maximize your progress, giving an energy score, wellness score, and more. In terms of hardware, it’s slightly bigger and beefier with a titanium build and even has a customizable quick button to make navigation easier. Currently half price with a $325 discount, it’s the perfect time to invest in this adventure companion.

Garmin Smartwatch Deals

The Garmin Venu Sq 2 is our Editors’ Pick for an affordable fitness-focused smartwatch – and that’s without the additional $100 discount! It packs in a ton of health features with more than 25 workouts modes, GPS tracking, step count, heart rate, pulse oximeter, stress, respiration, hydration stats, and some of the best sleep tracking on the market. Plus, it supports calendar and weather apps, Garmin mobile pay, and smartphone notifications, making it a well-rounded and practical wearable. While lacking the third-party app support of the Apple Watch SE or Samsung Galaxy Watch 7, the Venu Sq 2 excels in battery life, lasting up to 11 days in smartwatch mode or 26 hours in GPS mode.

Per our expert review, the Garmin Vivoactive 5 is “an excellent fitness-focused smartwatch that delivers accurate heart rate measurements, actionable health insights, and key lifestyle features”. Other standout features include a robust 11-day battery life, onboard music storage, nap tracking, and a specialized wheelchair mode. Plus, it’s an aesthetically stunning fitness tracker-smartwatch hybrid, thanks to the bright, responsive AMOLED touch screen and sleek rounded design. Best of all, it’s on sale for Prime Day with a $110 discount!

Similar to other Garmin smartwatches, the Forerunner 255 excels in the categories of fitness and health features. In addition to offering personalized training tips, it also provides a morning report based on your overnight HRV (heart rate variability) status and sleep and suggests a workout accordingly. What really makes this model stand out, though, is the onboard music storage of up to 500 songs. If you’re serious about your athletic performance, but can’t train without your favorite playlist, this might be the smartwatch for you – and you’re in luck because it’s $150 off right now!

The Garmin Instinct 2 is tough, durable, and ready to accompany you on your most intense adventures, even in the backcountry. It’s thermal- and shock-resistant with an impressive water-safe rating up to 100 meters. In addition to advanced fitness and sports performance features, it offers some of the best tracking and navigation tech out there with a built-in 3-axis compass, barometric altimeter, and three global satellite systems: GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo. Plus, you’ll be able to connect your smartphone to receive emails, texts, and other smart notifications.

Best Tips for Prime Day 2025

Apple Watch Deals

Apple’s flagship smartwatch, the Apple Watch Series 10 is just as impressive as older models, only now with a more refined design and audio playback capability. The fast and efficient S10 chip that powers it can do just about everything you’d want: record workouts and daily steps, measure health metrics like ECG and sleep, answer calls and texts, stream music and podcasts, access apps, set alarms, and more. Plus, the new depth gauge and water temperature sensors also make it an excellent choice for snorkeling and other shallow-water activities. It earned both our Editors’ Choice and Best of the Year Awards in 2024 – if you’re an iPhone user, you won’t find better than this, especially with a $120 discount!

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The latest Apple Watch SE that we reviewed hits the sweet spot in terms of balancing performance with price thanks to this $80 discount. It’s marketed as the “budget-friendly” model in the Apple Watch line-up, but still boasts many of the same core features, including fall detection, irregular heart rate and rhythm notifications, and pretty much the same access to apps and connectivity features. Basically, if you can forgo an always-on display and some of the more specialized health metrics, like body temperature and ECG, then the Apple Watch SE offers the most bang for your buck, but even more so at its lowest sale price of the year.

Serious adventurers and outdoor enthusiasts can save $250 off the Apple Watch Ultra 2. This is the rugged, action-focused smartwatch in the Apple lineup, featuring a more durable titanium case, an extended 55-hour battery life (a full day longer than the Series 10), an 86-decibel emergency siren, and an impressive 40-meter depth gauge. Plus, the optional cellular connectivity means you can leave your phone at home without sacrificing peace of mind when you’re out on the trails!

Not sure which Apple Watch is for you? Check out our detailed comparison.

Google Smartwatch Deals

If you want a sleek, classic aesthetic along with premium Fitbit fitness tracking, lifestyle, and connectivity features, then the Google Pixel Watch 3 is an obvious choice. Powered by Google’s WearOS, you can seamlessly connect your smartphone, play music, control your smart home, respond to emails and texts, use AI to answer your phone, and more. In terms of health and fitness, you’ll find everything from steps and sleep to cardio readiness and nutrition. Not to mention, it’s got a ton of advanced sensors, including ECG, multi-path optical heart-rate sensor, skin temperature, and SpO2. Per our review, it’s “one of the best Android smartwatches” and earned a rating of “Excellent.” And right now, it’s $100 less than usual!

For Android shoppers on a budget, the Google Pixel Watch 2 offers Fitbit fitness tracking technology (including skin temperature, stress sensors, and ECG) along with an extensive selection of apps and lifestyle features at a more affordable price point. Compared to many other high-end smartwatches, the Google Pixel Watch 2 boasts one of the best battery lives – it easily lasted for 33 hours during our expert testing. This is a solid, affordable choice for Android users, particularly since it’s on sale for under $130.

Fitbit Deals

Per our review, the Fitbit Charge 6 is one of the most capable and affordable fitness trackers out there, but even more so with this Prime Day discount bringing the price under $100. With 40 exercise modes, heart rate sensors, and a slim design, its primary focus is on health and fitness, but you can also access Google Maps, Google Wallet, and Youtube Music with it. Plus, use your stress management score, nightly sleep score, and on-wrist mindfulness sessions to monitor and improve your mental health. If you don’t want a bulkier, traditional watchface, this is the fitness tracker for you.

On the other hand, the Fitbit Versa 4 offers the same extensive collection of fitness and health features as the Charge 6, only in a more classic watchface design (and with a 30% discount!). Whether you use Android or iOS, this smartwatch is an excellent choice for those who prefer a more straightforward fitness tracker and don’t need all the high-tech connectivity and lifestyle features. In our testing, we loved the responsive touch screen and physical navigation button as well as the variety of watchface choices.

When it comes to a kid-friendly smartwatch, we recommend our Editor’s Choice, the Fitbit Ace. Designed for children aged 7 to 11, this smartwatch comes loaded with engaging activity-focused games, featuring friendly digital mascots to encourage young ones. In terms of safety, the parental controls are quite robust, allowing for location tracking and texting/calling trusted contacts only. Your young techie will love using it, and you’ll love the added peace of mind.

Be sure to check out our Prime Day 2025 Coverage for the latest sale updates!

New leadership, a sharpened focus, and the monetization of proprietary technology mark a transformational milestone for the company.

WESTPORT, CT / ACCESS Newswire / July 8, 2025 / Mobile Global Esports Inc. (OTC:MGAM), a next-generation technology and digital media company focused on the convergence of gaming, sports, entertainment, and AI, today announced that it has begun generating revenue, marking a significant inflection point in the company’s evolution.

This initial revenue is the result of the successful beta launch of Dominus Baseball, the first product under the Dominus umbrella. The company also plans to launch Dominus Football in the coming weeks, with multiple additional platforms and monetization channels set to follow.

This milestone comes on the heels of a significant strategic shift under new leadership. The company has transitioned away from its legacy esports positioning to a more expansive model rooted in proprietary intellectual property, next-gen platform development, and real-time audience engagement.

“After nearly 30 years in the gaming industry, I’ve seen countless companies rise and fall,” said Steve Berman, Chief Operating Officer. “What sets sustainable companies apart is a culture of discipline, especially in how they evaluate new opportunities. At MGAM, we aren’t chasing trends. We move forward only when a product or model has been fully vetted for long-term revenue potential, risk, and regulatory impact. It’s a constant balancing act: early-stage companies need to move quickly, but the decisions that matter most often require patience and precision. That’s where experience makes all the difference.”

The Company’s product pipeline includes a suite of interactive platforms, such as ProveIt (a skill-based audience competition for sports and entertainment), PUHZL (a proprietary dynamic profile technology), and Dominus, a high-integrity engagement framework for fantasy and real-money play. Each product is designed to unlock several more new revenue streams and reshape user experiences across fan-driven digital ecosystems.

“Our mission has always been to build platforms that bring audiences closer to the action,” said Brett Rosin, Chief Executive Officer. “We want to build an environment of gameplay that gives the user decision making power while merging it with real stats and simulation. With revenue now in motion and momentum building, we’re confident in our ability to scale across consumer and enterprise channels while simultaneously building shareholder value.

MGAM plans to announce further details around product launches, strategic partnerships, and additional revenue-generating initiatives over the coming weeks.

About Mobile Global Esports Inc.

Mobile Global Esports Inc. (OTC:MGAM) is a technology and digital media company redefining how fans and consumers interact with sports, entertainment, and gamified experiences. Through proprietary IP and platform innovation, MGAM is building immersive, skill-based environments that merge real-time engagement with scalable monetization. The company’s product portfolio encompasses fan engagement, AI-driven interactions, interactive media, and curated experiences tailored for the modern digital economy. MGAM is headquartered in Westport, Connecticut.

Safe Harbor Statement

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Statements that are not historical facts, including statements about MGAM’s future revenue growth, product launches, market strategy, and business outlook, are forward-looking statements. These statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially, including but not limited to market conditions, product development timelines, regulatory issues, and competitive pressures. MGAM disclaims any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, except as required by law.

Contact

Brett Rosin, CEO
Brett@mobileglobal.us
312-241-2550

SOURCE: Mobile Global Esports

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire

ACCESS Newswire

ACCESS Newswire is a newswire service that provides regional, national, and global news to thousands of clients worldwide. Its innovative technology paired with its expansive network of journalists and media outlets helps companies, both public and private, break through the noise of the market to share their stories and connect with their audiences.

The are Fitbit deals aplenty in this year’s Amazon Prime Day sale, and among the wave of fresh deals is the Fitbit Inspire 3 tracker – our best budget Fitbit, which is now even more affordable in both the US and UK.

Shop Amazon’s full Prime day sale

Though not quite at its lowest-ever price, the Fitbit Inspire 3 has beaten last year’s Black Friday deal in the US and is now just $74.95 (was $99.95) at Amazon. As for UK shoppers, the entry-level fitness tracker is just £1 off its lowest-price ever, sitting at £59.99 (was £84.99) for Prime subscribers.

In a world where a fitness tracker could set you back hundreds, the Fitbit Inspire 3 is designed for those who are relatively new to fitness tech, or who just want a capable tracker that covers all the basics without being too intricate and fiddly. In other words, it’s like the Nintendo Wii of fitness trackers; anyone, regardless of expertise, can quickly learn the ropes.

Amazon Prime Day deal: Fitbit Inspire 3

The Fitbit Inspire 3 is small but capable, packing the basic fitness tracking features including step tracking, and heart rate and sleep monitoring. It doesn’t end there, though: new to this model is the SpO2 monitoring, a function that can measure the quantity of oxygen in your blood. It’s a definitely a more advanced feature, and a generous one to include in a simple fitness tracker.

While serious runners will likely need something more advanced, swimmers shouldn’t write it off. In our review, our tester found it easy to wear and manage in water, with accurate swim tracking.

More Amazon Prime Day deals in the US

More Amazon Prime Day deals in the UK

Accomplished Media Executive Dave Clark Appointed as New CEO, Kent Heyman Transitions to Chairman of the Board to Drive Ongoing Innovation and Continued Success   

WHITE PLAINS, N.Y., July 8, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Cast Iron Media, a technology-driven leader in sports streaming and advertising, today announced the appointment of Dave Clark as Chief Executive Officer. A seasoned executive with broad industry experience, Clark joins the company to lead its next phase of growth and innovation in the rapidly evolving sports media landscape. Kent Heyman, who has served as CEO, will transition to Chairman of the Board. In this role, he will continue to help shape Cast Iron Media’s strategic direction and support its long-term expansion.

Dave Clark takes on the role of CEO after a career leading high-growth companies and navigating industry disruption. He most recently served as CEO of TripleLift, a programmatic advertising technology company, where he guided the company through a strategic reset. Before TripleLift, Clark held leadership positions as General Manager of FreeWheel, A Comcast Company, where he led the integration of six acquisitions in the CTV space to form the world’s leading streaming technology and monetization platform. Prior to FreeWheel, Clark was President of The Weather Channel, where he led a major transformation of the company’s brand and operations.

Earlier in his career he served as Executive Vice President, Advertising Revenue for The Madison Square Garden Company, overseeing sales for properties including the New York Knicks, New York Rangers, and New York Islanders.  Clark also serves on the Board of Directors for Big Brothers Big Sisters of America, reflecting his commitment to community involvement. 

“I am honored to join Cast Iron Media as CEO during such a pivotal time for the company,” said Clark. “With the support of Kent, the board, and the leadership team, I look forward to driving the company’s next phase of innovation and helping our partners unlock new value in the evolving sports media ecosystem. Cast Iron is uniquely positioned to lead the way in sports streaming monetization. I’m excited to build on the momentum we’ve established.”

Kent Heyman, a founding partner of Cast Iron Media, has been instrumental in guiding the company through its initial phase of growth, including securing key partnerships and strategic investments such as the MLB media rights extension and new investments from Orkila Capital and Bolt Ventures. Under his leadership, Cast Iron Media developed its proprietary ad-tech platform, The Foundry, solidifying its position in the live sports streaming market. In his new role as Chairman of the Board, Heyman will continue to advise on the company’s long-term strategy, supporting Clark as he leads Cast Iron Media into its next chapter. 

“It has been an incredible journey helping build Cast Iron Media, and I am honored to have served as CEO through such a defining period in the company’s history,” said Kent Heyman. “I’m excited to continue supporting this talented team as Chairman of the Board. I have the utmost confidence in Dave’s leadership and vision for the future, and I look forward to seeing the innovation and growth that lies ahead.”

The senior leadership team at Cast Iron Media will remain in place, ensuring continuity and a smooth transition as the company executes its strategic vision under Dave Clark’s leadership. With continued support from Major League Baseball (MLB) and its new equity partners, Orkila Capital and Bolt Ventures, Cast Iron Media is well-positioned to scale operations and capitalize on the growing demand for live sports content across OTT platforms.

“Cast Iron Media has grown exponentially over the past several years, and we deeply appreciate Kent’s strong leadership during this time,” said Jesse Du Bey, Managing Partner at Orkila Capital. “Looking to the future, we believe Dave’s extensive experience in media and technology, particularly in live-streamed sports, will help the company accelerate value creation moving forward. We look forward to supporting Dave and the Cast Iron team through the next phase of growth.”

Cast Iron Media is committed to expanding its proprietary platform, The Foundry, to enhance advertising capabilities and deliver greater value for advertisers and partners, including sports leagues and teams. The Foundry is central to Cast Iron Media’s operations, enabling precise delivery of local advertising across live sports content, ensuring advertisers can reach their desired audience in real time. With a strategic focus on innovation, localized ad delivery, and long-term partnerships, Cast Iron Media is well-positioned to strengthen its leadership in the OTT advertising space and continue its success in the evolving sports streaming landscape.

About Cast Iron Media

Cast Iron Media is a technology-driven sports media and marketing company that specializes in delivering targeted ads with precision through its advanced ad-tech platform, The Foundry. Through established partnerships with major sports leagues, teams, and Virtual Multichannel Video Programming Distributors (vMVPDs), Cast Iron Media manages expanded commercial inventory across live MLB, NBA, NHL, and NCAA games. The company’s cutting-edge platform ensures precise ad delivery, maximizing reach and engagement for advertisers across live sports content. For more information, visit www.castiron.media.

Press Inquiries:
Chris Tropeano
Prosek Partners on behalf of Cast Iron Media
[email protected]

SOURCE Cast Iron Media

Backed by Kayla Itsines and the founder of Grenade nutrition, Neutonic is ready to pop the top on brain-boosting energy powered by nootropics

Neutonic, the U.K.-based nootropic beverage startup founded by fitness influencer James Smith and “Modern Wisdom” podcast host Chris Williamson, has raised $3.7 million in its first funding round, propelling its valuation to $20 million just 18 months after launching.

The zero-sugar beverage brand has sold over three million cans and generated $10 million in sales since launching in November 2023, emerging as a rising player in the functional drink market with a coffee alternative powered by ingredients like Cognizin, Rhodiola rosea and Panax ginseng, and appealing to a growing base of sober-curious consumers.

In addition to its canned beverages, Neutonic offers on-the-go powder packets and daily “Focus Blend” brain capsules as part of its growing nootropic lineup.

The round drew investment from a high-profile group of creators and entrepreneurs, including Sweat co-founder Kayla Itsines, Contrarian Thinking’s Codie Sanchez, SaaS leader Dan Martell and Gym King’s Jay Parker. Also joining was Grenade founder Alan Barratt, whose sports nutrition brand was acquired by Mondelez for £200 million in 2021.

The move comes as the nootropics space heats up globally, buoyed by shifting wellness priorities and a growing interest in cognitive enhancers.

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“I first met James early in my career and have always admired his drive and passion for everything he takes on,” Itsines said. “From the moment I tried Neutonic, it quickly became my go-to—thanks not only to the quality of the product but also to the integrity and vision of the team behind it. Both James and Chris bring a level of thoughtfulness and ambition that’s rare to find, and I’m incredibly proud to support them as an investor. I truly believe in what they’re building and couldn’t be more excited for what’s to come.”

The capital will support Neutonic’s next growth phase, with plans to expand retail distribution in the U.K. and U.S., appoint regional leads and build out the team with strategic hires. New powder and canned flavors are slated to launch this summer.

“This investment provides the momentum needed to bring our ambitions for Neutonic to life,” Smith said. “We’ve had a clear vision from the outset, and closing this funding round marks a significant milestone in reaching the next phase of our growth. We’re excited to expand into new markets and strengthen our presence in retail.”