Hartford Tech Startup Thrives in Tough Insurance Market

A Journey of Resilience and Innovation

When their startup’s investors pulled out just before Christmas eight years ago, Luke Magnan and Mike Jones found themselves at a crossroads. With no external funding to rely on, the two insurance industry veterans made a bold decision to take a different approach. “We had to figure out what we were going to do, and we decided we’re going to try to do this a different way,” Magnan said. “Let’s see what we can do without any money, if we can sort of bootstrap this and make it happen.”

With decades of experience in the insurance sector, the pair launched their insurtech software firm in Hartford, naming it Combined Ratio Solutions after a key financial metric used to assess an insurer's profitability. Starting with a small team funded entirely by their own resources, they focused on creating a product that could address the pain points of the industry.

Over the past eight years, the company has grown significantly. The original core group of five has expanded to 200 employees, with about 30 working from the company’s headquarters at 190 Trumbull St. in downtown Hartford. Combined Ratio Solutions now offers updated software that helps property and casualty insurance companies manage their day-to-day operations, covering assets like homes and cars.

Challenging the Status Quo

Magnan believes that traditional software companies have not always aligned with what customers truly need. “There was a better way to go about it,” he said. The company’s website reflects this philosophy, using bright colors, bold fonts, and oversized all-caps headers to urge insurers to “join the revolution” against the clunky and overpriced software that dominates the industry. The team is described as “our rebels,” highlighting their commitment to innovation.

The company’s latest product is free, open-source software designed for policy administration, allowing insurance companies to assess risk information and determine coverage levels and pricing. “We’ve built a whole practice around implementing it and configuring it to really work for clients,” Magnan explained. “We're very excited. We think this is something that really is going to change the industry, and we’re aggressively growing around it.”

Choosing Hartford as a Home

Magnan, a native of Vernon, convinced his co-founder to locate the company in Hartford due to its concentration of insurance industry talent and expertise. Despite challenges with rising office vacancies in recent years, the city has proven to be a supportive environment for growth. “The local business owners on the hospitality side have certainly been an important part to our story,” Magnan said. The company aims to double its Hartford-based workforce in the next year and encourages new hires to live in the city.

“Bringing younger people from other geographies to live in Hartford has had pros and cons,” Magnan noted. “I think living in downtown Hartford now is better than it’s been in the past, and certainly a much different experience than people who maybe lived in other places. We have to appreciate that it will not be for everybody.”

Building a Community Around Insurtech

To reach the next level, Combined Ratio Solutions needs more support in connecting with large companies that once gave Hartford its title as the “Insurance Capital of the World,” Magnan said. “More companies could be doing what we’re doing, and we’d be happy to talk about that and building more of a community around insurance technology in the city.”

Susan Winkler, executive director of the MetroHartford Alliance’s insurance and financial services division, sees companies like Combined Ratio Solutions as a beacon of hope for the insurance sector in Hartford. While industry giants like Aetna have reduced their local workforces, efforts to build an ecosystem around insurance technology are gaining momentum. This includes organizations like InsurTech Hartford, which promotes networking and hosts events such as Hartford Innovation Week.

Stacey Brown, founder of InsurTech Hartford, noted that breaking into the insurtech industry is challenging due to the dominance of large, self-contained companies. “Combined Ratio is a bright spot,” Brown said. “Their target customers are not necessarily the big logos we see around town. They tend to go after the smaller, agile and more innovative companies in the industry.”

A Model for Future Entrepreneurs

Magnan hopes that Combined Ratio Solutions’ success story will inspire other entrepreneurs. “We own the company outright, and we’ve really been able to make our own decisions and grow the company,” he said. “While we’re in a high-tech industry, it is a very old-fashioned model, and it’s something that I think that everybody should seriously consider and take a look at.”

AI Struggles With Student Loan Forgiveness

Understanding Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)

Public Service Loan Forgiveness is one of the most sought-after federal student loan forgiveness programs, promising debt cancellation after 120 qualifying payments for borrowers who work in government or nonprofit jobs. However, this program has also been plagued by years of confusion, regulatory changes, and uneven implementation. The complexity of PSLF has led some borrowers to turn to AI tools for guidance.

But can AI be trusted to explain such a complex program? A recent test of four leading AI platforms—ChatGPT, Google Gemini, Grok, and Perplexity—revealed mixed results. While all correctly explained the basics of PSLF, they struggled with more nuanced questions about repayment plans and forbearances.

What AI Got Right

Every system tested correctly defined PSLF at a high level: a program that cancels the remaining balance on Direct Loans after 120 qualifying monthly payments while working full-time for an eligible employer. The tools explained that qualifying employers include government agencies and nonprofit organizations, and that repayment must be made under an income-driven plan or the 10-year standard plan.

Google Gemini provided a clear and accurate explanation of PSLF, highlighting the requirement that only Direct Loans qualify, and that FFEL or Perkins Loans don't qualify unless they are consolidated first. This baseline accuracy is important, but it's also the simplest because it's defined clearly across multiple websites. For basic PSLF education, AI appears to be a reasonable starting point.

Where AI Went Off Track

The real test came with more complex questions. On whether the SAVE forbearance counts toward PSLF, only Google Gemini offered a somewhat decent answer, but after multiple paragraphs that seemed inappropriate for the question. The answer is simple: time in SAVE forbearance does not count, except potentially through the PSLF “buyback” process if the borrower qualifies.

ChatGPT, Grok, and Perplexity all gave inconsistent or incomplete responses, with some suggesting incorrectly that SAVE-related pauses might be credited like the COVID-era payment pause. For example, ChatGPT answered a clear "yes" to whether months in administrative forbearance could count toward PSLF, which is incorrect.

When asked about the new Repayment Assistance Plan (RAP) created under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), the answers varied widely. Gemini correctly identified RAP as a qualifying income-driven repayment plan beginning in 2026. ChatGPT also recognized RAP’s eligibility but hedged that the Department of Education had not finalized guidance, even though this is incorrect. Grok, however, denied RAP’s existence as a repayment option, suggesting it must have been a typo.

Even on the relatively straightforward question of whether loans must be serviced by MOHELA to count for PSLF, responses varied. Gemini and Perplexity correctly explained that servicing is now managed through StudentAid.gov and that loans can remain with any federal servicer. ChatGPT suggested loans eventually move to MOHELA for tracking, reflecting outdated information. Grok gave a partial answer that was accurate in describing Direct Loan eligibility but incomplete in its explanation of MOHELA’s limited current role.

Why Accuracy Matters

The gaps in AI responses highlight why borrowers should be cautious when using AI tools for financial decisions. Mistakenly believing that months in SAVE forbearance count toward forgiveness could delay cancellation by years. Misunderstanding whether RAP qualifies might lead borrowers to choose the wrong repayment plan. Confusion about servicer requirements could result in incorrect paperwork or confusion.

Because PSLF has historically been one of the most error-prone and complaint-heavy programs in federal student aid, accuracy is not optional. The Department of Education has repeatedly updated PSLF rules through waivers, account adjustments, and negotiated rulemaking. Each change has created new exceptions and caveats that AI systems often fail to capture fully.

Safer Alternatives for Borrowers

Borrowers seeking reliable information on student loan forgiveness should continue to rely on official resources or actual human experts:

• Studentaid.gov: The Department of Education’s website hosts the PSLF Help Tool, which verifies employer eligibility and tracks payment counts.
• Loan servicers: While imperfect, loan servicers remain the official point of contact for processing payments and forms. It's also important to note that loan servicers cannot give you information on future programs like RAP—they can only discuss current options that may work for you.
• Media organizations that specialize on education and personal finance: These organizations provide in-depth coverage and expert analysis.
• Certified professionals: For personalized advice, borrowers can consult financial planners or student loan lawyers that specialize in student loan debt.

AI tools can provide a helpful overview, but borrowers should always cross-check information with official sources.

Bottom Line

AI is not ready to help you navigate Public Service Loan Forgiveness. While the technology is improving, it still struggles with the nuance and exceptions that can make or break eligibility. For now, AI should be treated as a supplementary tool, not a primary source.

Borrowers who want to ensure they are on track for forgiveness should document their employment, submit PSLF forms regularly, and consult the Department of Education directly. AI may someday help simplify student loan programs, but today, it remains a work in progress.

Dwaraka Nath Kummari Launches AI Tax Compliance System to Revolutionize Global Reporting

Modernizing Tax Compliance with Predictive Analytics

Businesses dealing with tax obligations across multiple jurisdictions are increasingly facing challenges in managing data preparation, interpreting regulations, and ensuring audit readiness. Dwaraka Nath Kummari has introduced an innovative framework that incorporates machine learning into critical parts of the tax reporting process. This approach aims to enhance accuracy, reduce manual work, and allow for more efficient prioritization of audits.

The Shift Toward Predictive Tools

Traditional tax processes often depend on manually gathered data, isolated systems, and reactive audits. Kummari suggests a move toward predictive analytics, where compliance risks are assessed early using both structured and unstructured data sources. By utilizing machine learning, the framework can detect potential inconsistencies, allowing tax teams to address issues earlier in the reporting cycle.

Key Lifecycle Phases in the Framework

Kummari’s system is divided into three main stages, each leveraging artificial intelligence to achieve specific operational benefits:

Data Intake and Preparation

• Natural language processing (NLP) is used to standardize regulatory texts and unstructured inputs.
• Structured data such as ledgers and transactions are cleaned, transformed, and analyzed for outliers or inconsistencies.
• Analytical tools identify early signs of compliance gaps, including delayed remittances or mismatches between different jurisdictions.

Risk Classification and Case Prioritization

• Predictive models, such as Random Forests and Logistic Regression, assess the likelihood of non-compliance.
• Entities are categorized based on their compliance risk levels, helping teams allocate audit resources effectively.
• Models are continuously updated with feedback from past audit results to improve their predictive accuracy over time.

Scalable Deployment and Reporting

• AI components are deployed across secure, distributed environments using privacy-preserving techniques like federated learning.
• Model decisions and supporting evidence are documented for audit readiness, with version control applied to regulatory logic.
• The system incorporates changes to tax rules through modular updates, ensuring minimal disruption to core analytics.

Observed Benefits in Early Implementation

In a trial involving a commercial organization operating in three tax jurisdictions, the prototype processed over 10 million transactions. The results showed a 40% increase in identifying potentially non-compliant cases, with a 25% reduction in false-positive classifications. By flagging risks earlier in the cycle, internal tax teams were able to resolve issues proactively, potentially reducing financial exposure by nearly one-fifth.

Ensuring Accountability in Model Use

To maintain transparency, the system includes explanation tools that link model outputs to observable data factors—such as missing documentation or unusual transaction values. This traceability supports both internal reviews and external audit requirements. Security protocols are implemented throughout, including encrypted data storage and strict access governance.

Future Applications

Looking ahead, the framework could support additional features such as automated document preparation when anomalies are detected or simulation tools that help tax teams anticipate the impact of new legislative proposals.

Kummari emphasizes that the goal is not to replace human oversight but to enable a more structured, data-informed approach to tax governance. By integrating predictive models with domain knowledge and operational safeguards, organizations can better manage regulatory complexity while maintaining accountability and control.

Samsung Extends 7-Year Update Promise to Smart Home Devices

Samsung Expands 7-Year Update Promise to Smart Home Appliances

In the early days of smartphones, it was common for brands to offer customers between one to three years of software updates. However, this has significantly changed over time. Companies like Samsung have now extended their update support to as long as seven years for newer devices. Now, the company is taking this approach a step further by applying similar update policies to its smart home appliances.

A New Era for Smart Home Devices

Samsung’s smart home appliances, including refrigerators, washing machines, and more, currently run on the Tizen operating system. According to recent announcements, the company is making some significant changes to how these devices are updated and managed. In addition to providing up to seven years of updates, Samsung is also integrating One UI into its smart appliances.

It’s important to note that Samsung isn’t replacing Tizen with One UI. Instead, it’s introducing a version of One UI tailored specifically for home appliances. This interface isn’t the same as the one found on Galaxy phones or tablets, but it aims to provide a more familiar experience for users who are already accustomed to Samsung’s mobile ecosystem.

A Unified Software Experience

One of the main motivations behind this change is to create a more unified software experience across all Samsung products. The company is focusing on features such as an enhanced version of Bixby, Samsung TV Plus, SmartThings, Family Care, Home Care, and Pet Care. These features aim to streamline the way users interact with their smart home devices, making them more intuitive and user-friendly.

Additionally, Samsung plans to introduce a feature called “Now Brief” in WiFi-enabled home appliances that launch in 2026. This feature, which first appeared in the Galaxy S25 series, delivers personalized and relevant information directly to the appliance’s display. Users can expect updates on weather, upcoming schedules, and other useful data without having to check their phone.

What Does This Mean for Consumers?

While the idea of receiving regular updates for smart home appliances may seem appealing, it’s worth considering how often users actually engage with these devices. Many people might find it more convenient to check their phone for updates rather than interacting with a fridge or washing machine. However, for those who are excited about the concept of a fully integrated smart home, this development could be a game-changer.

Samsung’s move to bring longer update cycles and a more consistent user interface to its appliances reflects a broader trend in the tech industry. As smart home technology continues to evolve, companies are looking for ways to make their products more accessible, functional, and future-proof.

Looking Ahead

With the introduction of One UI and extended update support, Samsung is positioning itself as a leader in the smart home space. The company’s focus on creating a seamless experience across all its products is likely to appeal to both existing Samsung users and those new to the ecosystem.

As these updates roll out, it will be interesting to see how consumers respond and whether the added functionality translates into real-world benefits. For now, one thing is clear: Samsung is committed to redefining what it means to own a smart home.

Sony INZONE Mouse Review: A Featherlight Pro Gaming Masterpiece

Price and Availability

The Sony INZONE Mouse-A is priced at $150. When you purchase the mouse, it comes with a USB-A to USB-C cable, a 2.4 GHz receiver (dongle), and replacement skates. This setup ensures that users have everything they need right out of the box.

It’s All About Shape and Weight

From a technical standpoint, the Sony INZONE Mouse-A is on par with other high-end gaming mice. Specifications such as 750 IPS, 70 G acceleration, 30,000 DPI, and an 8000 Hz polling rate are common in this category. Sony brings these standard features to the table, resulting in a performant mouse that meets expectations.

Instead of focusing on specs, Sony aimed to differentiate the INZONE Mouse-A through its design. At just 48 grams, it's lighter than many of its competitors, making it ideal for fast-paced games like first-person shooters. The smooth skates contribute to its performance, though larger skates could further enhance its capabilities.

The shape of the mouse is also significant. While it may not provide a clear competitive edge, the aggressive hump encourages an active posture. It supports claw grips well, but the hump can be uncomfortable when using a palm grip. For those who prefer a flatter design, there are alternatives available. However, if you use a claw grip or something similar, the INZONE Mouse-A should be comfortable enough.

Everything You Need, Nothing You Don’t

As with most high-end gaming mice, the INZONE Mouse-A focuses on essential features rather than flashy extras. There’s no RGB lighting or gimmicks here—just a straightforward design that prioritizes function over form.

The mouse includes two primary buttons, two side buttons, and a scroll wheel. Optical switches ensure precise clicks, and the large side buttons are easy to access. The scroll wheel is notably big, which is a welcome feature since many modern mice have wheels that are too small for comfortable use.

Despite these positives, some aspects of the mouse feel underdeveloped. The short travel distance and lack of buoyancy in the buttons result in hard stops, which can be unpleasant. The side buttons feel hollow, and the wheel button is too firm. These issues may be attributed to Sony’s first attempt at a gaming mouse, but for the same price, there are other mice that have already refined these details.

Another notable omission is Bluetooth connectivity. While this trend is becoming more common in gaming mice, the 2.4 GHz connection offers better responsiveness, making it a logical choice for gaming. If Bluetooth is a must-have for you, the INZONE Mouse-A may not be the best option.

Wireless Performance and Battery Life

The wireless version of the INZONE Mouse-A delivers impressive battery life. Sony claims up to 90 hours of use, which aligns with real-world testing. The mouse efficiently manages power by turning off when idle and quickly resuming operation when needed. This feature is especially beneficial, as even a minor delay could hinder performance during intense gaming sessions.

Customization May Be Too Basic

High-end gaming mice typically offer extensive software customization. However, the INZONE Hub software falls short in this regard. Users can reassign buttons, adjust DPI, and modify lift-off distance, among other settings. While these options are sufficient for casual gamers, those willing to spend a premium on a mouse expect more advanced features, such as adjusting acceleration curves.

Additional quality-of-life improvements, like disabling the always-on light of the 2.4 GHz dongle, would have been appreciated. Although the software may improve over time, currently, it doesn’t fully justify the mouse’s price point.

Should You Buy the Sony INZONE Mouse-A?

The Sony INZONE Mouse-A is a reliable, no-frills gaming mouse that caters well to users who prefer a claw grip. It features quality components, but it could benefit from more robust customization and improved tactile feedback. While it may not be the top choice at full price, it could be worth considering if it becomes available at a discount.

New Cell Phone Law Explained as Triad Students Head Back to School

New Law Restricts Cell Phone Use in North Carolina Schools

As students across the Piedmont Triad return to school, a new law is changing the way they interact with technology. Governor Josh Stein recently signed House Bill 959 into law, which places restrictions on the use of cell phones and other devices in public schools. The legislation also mandates that students receive education on social media literacy.

Restrictions on Mobile Devices

The law requires all public school districts in North Carolina to submit policies restricting wireless devices to the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction by September 1. These policies must be implemented by January 1. The goal is to reduce distractions and improve student focus during instructional time.

Research supports these restrictions, showing that mobile devices can negatively impact learning. Some school systems have already implemented similar policies. For example, Lexington City Schools requires elementary and middle school students to turn off their phones for the entire school day, while high school students may use them during lunch.

Superintendent Nakia Hardy of Lexington City Schools noted that students are more focused in class when devices are not allowed. “It's a difficult thing for students and even adults to detach from their devices, but they can be a major distraction,” she said.

Other districts, like Rockingham County Schools, are still determining how to implement the new rules. Superintendent John Stover mentioned that some middle schools have had success with no-cell-phone policies, and others are considering adopting similar models.

Impact on Students

While some parents have expressed concerns about being unable to contact their children in emergencies, experts like psychologist Mitch Prinstein believe the benefits outweigh the drawbacks. Prinstein, who studies the effects of technology on child development, says fewer distractions lead to better focus and safety.

He also highlighted the "second-hand screen effect," where students sitting near those using devices can also be distracted. Additionally, he warns about the exposure of students to harmful content online, such as cyberbullying or misinformation.

Prinstein emphasizes that when these policies are first introduced, there may be an adjustment period. However, many students eventually feel relieved, reporting that they can be more present and form real connections without the pressure of constant device use.

Social Media Literacy Education

In addition to limiting device usage, House Bill 959 requires schools to teach social media literacy. This includes lessons on the social, emotional, and physical effects of social media use. Each district must provide instruction at least once in elementary school, once in middle school, and twice in high school.

The curriculum covers eight key topics:

• Negative effects of social media on mental health, including addiction.
• The spread of misinformation on social media.
• How social media can manipulate behavior.
• The permanency of online information.
• Maintaining personal security online.
• Identifying cyberbullying, predatory behavior, and human trafficking.
• Reporting suspicious online activity.
• Developing personal and interpersonal skills to reduce risky behavior.

Prinstein believes this education helps students navigate both online and offline environments. He encourages teaching critical thinking, how to identify misinformation, and how to handle conflicts on the internet.

Ongoing Research and Adaptation

As schools implement these changes, Prinstein stresses the importance of continued research and legislative efforts. With the rapid advancement of AI and other technologies, it’s essential to stay informed and adapt policies accordingly.

The new law aims to create a safer and more focused learning environment for students, balancing the benefits of technology with the need for responsible use. As districts roll out these policies, the focus remains on supporting student well-being and academic success.

New radar reveals hidden underground city

Breakthrough in Radar Technology

Recent advancements in radar technology have led to a remarkable discovery beneath the Giza Pyramids in Egypt—a massive underground city. This groundbreaking find has drawn attention from archaeologists and scientists around the world, igniting discussions and prompting further exploration. As researchers and enthusiasts delve into this monumental discovery, it promises to reshape our understanding of ancient Egyptian civilization and its architectural achievements.

The breakthrough was made possible by the innovative use of quantum radar technology. Unlike traditional radar, which relies on radio waves to detect objects, quantum radar utilizes quantum entanglement to achieve unprecedented levels of resolution and penetration. This technology allows for more precise detection of underground structures, which has long been a challenge for archaeologists trying to explore beneath the Earth’s surface without invasive digging.

Quantum radar's technical advancements have opened new avenues for exploration. Its ability to penetrate deeper layers of the earth while maintaining high resolution has made it an invaluable tool in discovering hidden structures. The technology’s sensitivity is attributed to innovations in quantum physics, which allow it to distinguish between different materials with high accuracy. These capabilities not only facilitate archaeological discoveries but also have broader applications. For instance, in geology, it can be used to map mineral deposits, while in urban planning, it can help in the design of underground infrastructure. Its potential uses in military operations for detecting underground bunkers also highlight its strategic importance.

The Discovery of the Underground City

The initial signs of the underground city were detected when radar images revealed unusual patterns beneath the sands of Giza. These anomalies piqued the interest of researchers, leading to a more focused investigation. As exploration continued, the radar data unveiled a sprawling network of tunnels and chambers, confirming the existence of a vast subterranean complex. The architectural features identified within the underground city are nothing short of fascinating. Researchers have mapped out intricate passageways and chambers that suggest a well-organized urban layout. Some areas appear to have been used for residential purposes, with evidence of living quarters and communal spaces. The complexity of the construction indicates advanced engineering skills, challenging previous assumptions about the capabilities of ancient Egyptian society.

The discovery provides a new perspective on the architectural ingenuity of the civilization that built the pyramids and raises questions about the purpose and function of the underground city. It challenges existing historical narratives and suggests that ancient Egyptians may have been more advanced than previously thought. This newfound complexity in their urban planning and architecture could significantly alter our perception of their societal structure and cultural achievements.

Implications for Archaeology and History

Excavating and studying the underground city presents numerous challenges for archaeologists. The delicate balance of preserving the site while conducting thorough research requires advanced techniques and technologies. There are concerns about causing potential damage to the structures, which have remained hidden for millennia. Furthermore, ethical considerations must be addressed, as the site holds significant cultural and historical importance. Ensuring that the exploration respects the cultural heritage and traditions of Egypt is paramount to maintaining the integrity of the discovery.

As scientists and historians continue to study the site, they may uncover new insights into the daily lives and spiritual practices of the civilization. The revelation of such an expansive underground city has profound implications for our understanding of ancient history. It challenges existing historical narratives and suggests that ancient Egyptians may have been more advanced than previously thought. This newfound complexity in their urban planning and architecture could significantly alter our perception of their societal structure and cultural achievements.

Scientific and Public Reaction

The scientific community has been abuzz with debates and discussions regarding the implications of the underground city. Some experts argue that the discovery could rewrite sections of ancient history, while others call for cautious analysis before drawing definitive conclusions. The varying opinions reflect the complexity of interpreting such a monumental find.

Media coverage of the discovery has captivated the public’s imagination, sparking widespread interest in ancient civilizations and their mysteries. Reports from various outlets have brought the story to a global audience, increasing public engagement with archaeological research. The fascination with the unknown and the allure of uncovering hidden secrets beneath iconic landmarks like the Giza Pyramids have contributed to a renewed enthusiasm for historical exploration. As public interest grows, it may lead to increased funding and support for future archaeological endeavors.

Looking Forward: Potential Discoveries

The discovery of the underground city beneath the Giza Pyramids is just the beginning. As technology continues to advance, new tools and methods will likely emerge to aid in the exploration of hidden sites. Predicting future technological innovations, such as enhanced quantum radar systems with even greater precision and depth capabilities, could revolutionize the way we study ancient structures and their environments. These advancements will be crucial in uncovering other potential sites that lie hidden beneath the surface.

The global implications of similar discoveries are vast. If other ancient civilizations also constructed underground cities, we may need to reevaluate our understanding of history on a broader scale. These findings could provide insights into the commonalities and differences among ancient cultures, offering a more comprehensive view of human development throughout the ages. The potential for new discoveries highlights the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration, bringing together technologists, archaeologists, historians, and other experts to share knowledge and expertise. Such partnerships will be essential in unlocking the mysteries of our past and preserving them for future generations.