Introduction to Screen-Aware AI Assistants

The global artificial intelligence industry is shifting towards the development of intelligent agents that can plan, execute, and assist across multiple domains. These tools are designed to handle tasks autonomously, sometimes with minimal prompting. In China, the rise of "screen-aware" agents, AI assistants that can view, interpret, and act based on what’s displayed on the user’s screen, represents a significant shift in how AI is being embedded into everyday computing.

The Rise of Doubao AI

One notable example is ByteDance’s Doubao AI, a consumer-facing assistant that introduced a Screen Sharing Call feature. With the user’s permission, the tool gains visibility over everything currently shown on the desktop during a voice interaction. It can read WeChat conversations, solve math problems on-screen, identify active applications, and summarize video clips – all without switching context. This design echoes Microsoft’s Recall feature, which was built to help users remember on-screen activities by capturing snapshots.

Technical Enablers and Privacy Concerns

The key technical enabler behind Doubao AI’s feature is access to a system-level setting known as accessibility services. Originally designed to help users with disabilities, this permission grants apps the ability to view and interact with nearly all visual elements on the screen. While the feature does request user consent, the language used is often technical, and the implications are not always clear. The information interpreted by Doubao AI is uploaded to ByteDance’s servers for processing, introducing concerns about data storage, misuse, and unauthorized access.

An Ecosystem-Level Shift

Doubao isn’t an outlier; other Chinese developers are rolling out screen-aware capabilities. Zhipu AI’s GLM-PC can carry out cross-application tasks on the desktop, while AutoGLM is focused on browser-based actions. Smartphone manufacturers like Xiaomi, OPPO, Honor, and Vivo are embedding similar AI functions at the system level, often relying on accessibility permissions to parse visual content. In some cases, these integrations happen with minimal user notification, shifting more responsibility onto users to understand what they’ve enabled.

Diverging Philosophies

The differing responses to screen-aware AI in China and the West reflect deeper contrasts in how AI is being developed and governed. In the U.S. and Europe, AI assistants are typically sandboxed using formal APIs, explicit tool integrations, and clear scopes of action. Developers emphasize consent mechanisms and often shape deployment timelines around public feedback. In China, the reliance on accessibility services and GUI-based interpretation allows for quicker integration across apps and platforms but often with less granular control.

Balancing Promise and Risk

Screen-aware assistants are not inherently problematic; used carefully, they can enhance productivity, improve accessibility, and simplify digital tasks. However, the impact depends on how they’re implemented and how well users understand them. Key challenges include transparency, consent, boundaries, and data handling. Without clear answers to these questions, screen-sharing by default could become normalized before its implications are fully understood.

Looking Ahead

As AI assistants evolve into intelligent agents capable of multistep reasoning and cross-platform actions, visual context will almost certainly become part of their toolkit. The question is not whether this trend will continue but whether the industry builds the right infrastructure to ensure it’s done responsibly. China’s deployment of these tools offers a preview of what’s technically possible and where frictionless design can lead. It also provides a cautionary tale: powerful AI features introduced without transparency risk undermining trust just as AI enters more personal spaces.

Conclusion

The development of screen-aware AI assistants represents a pivotal shift in how we interact with machines. For these assistants to be true partners, they must be built on a foundation of clarity, respect, and informed choice. Developers, regulators, and users alike would benefit from treating screen-aware agents not as a niche product tweak but as a fundamental change in the relationship between humans and technology. By addressing the challenges of transparency, consent, and data handling, we can ensure that the benefits of screen-aware AI are realized while minimizing the risks.

FAQs

1. What are screen-aware AI assistants?
   Screen-aware AI assistants are tools designed to view, interpret, and act based on what’s displayed on the user’s screen, enhancing their ability to provide contextual help and assistance.
2. How do screen-aware AI assistants work?
   These assistants work by accessing system-level settings such as accessibility services, which allow them to view and interact with nearly all visual elements on the screen.
3. What are the benefits of screen-aware AI assistants?
   The benefits include enhanced productivity, improved accessibility, and simplified digital tasks, as they can provide more relevant and contextual help based on what’s currently displayed on the screen.
4. What are the concerns associated with screen-aware AI assistants?
   Concerns include transparency, consent, boundaries, and data handling, as the feature may upload interpreted data to servers for processing, raising questions about data storage, misuse, and unauthorized access.
5. How can the risks associated with screen-aware AI assistants be mitigated?
   The risks can be mitigated by ensuring transparency, obtaining clear and informed consent, setting boundaries on what the assistant can see or do, and implementing robust data handling practices that respect user privacy.

Software and platforms for DEIA (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility) reporting have revolutionized the way organizations measure and improve their outcomes. With the help of these tools, companies can now easily track their progress, identify areas for improvement, and make data-driven decisions to foster a more inclusive and diverse work environment. In this article, we will explore the world of DEIA reporting and provide an overview of the tools and platforms available to make this process easier.

What is DEIA!?

Before we dive into the tools and platforms, it’s essential to understand what DEIA means and why it’s crucial for organizations. DEIA stands for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility, which are the four pillars of creating a fair and inclusive work environment. Diversity refers to the presence of different groups or individuals with unique characteristics, such as race, gender, age, or ability. Equity ensures that everyone has equal access to opportunities and resources, while Inclusion creates a sense of belonging and respect among all employees. Accessibility refers to the physical and technological environment, ensuring that everyone can participate and contribute.

Benefits of DEIA Reporting

DEIA reporting is essential for organizations as it helps them identify areas for improvement, track progress, and make informed decisions. By measuring DEIA outcomes, companies can improve their reputation, increase employee engagement, and enhance their overall performance. DEIA reporting also helps organizations comply with regulations and laws, reducing the risk of lawsuits and reputational damage.

Tools for DEIA Reporting

There are various tools and platforms available to make DEIA reporting easier and more efficient. These tools can be categorized into several types, including survey and assessment tools, data analytics platforms, and reporting and dashboard tools. Some popular tools for DEIA reporting include:

Survey and Assessment Tools

Survey and assessment tools help organizations collect data on employee experiences, attitudes, and perceptions. These tools can be used to conduct employee surveys, focus groups, and interviews. Popular survey and assessment tools include Culture Amp, 15Five, and SurveyMonkey.

Data Analytics Platforms

Data analytics platforms help organizations analyze and interpret DEIA data, providing insights and recommendations for improvement. These platforms can be used to track diversity metrics, analyze employee engagement, and identify trends and patterns. Popular data analytics platforms include Tableau, Power BI, and Domo.

Reporting and Dashboard Tools

Reporting and dashboard tools help organizations create visual representations of their DEIA data, making it easier to track progress and identify areas for improvement. These tools can be used to create customized dashboards, reports, and scorecards. Popular reporting and dashboard tools include Google Data Studio, Microsoft Power BI, and Tableau.

Best Practices for DEIA Reporting

To get the most out of DEIA reporting, organizations should follow best practices, including:

Setting Clear Goals and Objectives

Setting clear goals and objectives is essential for effective DEIA reporting. Organizations should define what they want to achieve, how they will measure progress, and what actions they will take to improve outcomes.

Collecting and Analyzing Data

Collecting and analyzing data is critical for DEIA reporting. Organizations should use a combination of quantitative and qualitative data to get a comprehensive understanding of their DEIA outcomes.

Creating a DEIA Strategy

Creating a DEIA strategy is essential for improving outcomes. Organizations should develop a plan that outlines their goals, objectives, and actions, and regularly review and update their strategy to ensure progress.

Common Challenges in DEIA Reporting

Despite the benefits of DEIA reporting, organizations often face challenges, including:

Lack of Data

One of the most common challenges in DEIA reporting is the lack of data. Organizations may not have the necessary data to track progress, or they may not know how to collect and analyze data effectively.

Resistance to Change

Resistance to change is another common challenge in DEIA reporting. Organizations may face resistance from employees who are not comfortable with the idea of change or who do not see the value in DEIA reporting.

Limited Resources

Limited resources is another challenge that organizations may face in DEIA reporting. Organizations may not have the necessary budget, time, or personnel to dedicate to DEIA reporting.

Conclusion

DEIA reporting is essential for organizations that want to create a fair and inclusive work environment. With the help of software and platforms for DEIA, companies can easily track their progress, identify areas for improvement, and make data-driven decisions. By following best practices, such as setting clear goals and objectives, collecting and analyzing data, and creating a DEIA strategy, organizations can overcome common challenges and improve their DEIA outcomes. Remember, DEIA reporting is not a one-time task, but an ongoing process that requires continuous effort and commitment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about DEIA reporting:

What is DEIA reporting?

DEIA reporting refers to the process of tracking and measuring an organization’s diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility outcomes.

Why is DEIA reporting important?

DEIA reporting is essential for organizations as it helps them identify areas for improvement, track progress, and make informed decisions.

What are some common challenges in DEIA reporting?

Common challenges in DEIA reporting include lack of data, resistance to change, and limited resources.

How can organizations overcome these challenges?

Organizations can overcome these challenges by setting clear goals and objectives, collecting and analyzing data, and creating a DEIA strategy.

What are some popular tools for DEIA reporting?

Popular tools for DEIA reporting include Culture Amp, 15Five, SurveyMonkey, Tableau, Power BI, and Domo.

Introduction to Sustainability in Business

Today, sustainability isn’t simply about saving the planet; it’s something we understand as a driver of long-term business success. The drive to reduce our environmental and waste footprint is reshaping the products businesses sell and the processes used to create them. It also impacts the way businesses interact with customers, pick partners and suppliers, and engage with new business models, including circular and low-carbon economies.

Common Mistakes in Sustainability

But the transition to a cleaner, greener business isn’t always smooth, and in my work, I notice that a number of common mistakes frequently precede failure or even disaster. So, let’s run through five of the most common missteps and misjudgments that often lead to wasted time, resources or even reputational damage.

1. Failing To Make Sustainability A Core Element Of Strategy

This requires a change of mindset, from thinking of sustainability as a cost burden to understanding it as a driver of success. Rather than a box-ticking exercise, sustainability can unlock efficiencies, open up new markets and build organizational resilience. For example, by making a commitment to adopting circular principles and developing new processes for recycling the fibreboard used in its furniture, Ikea can reduce material costs across its operations and lower its carbon footprint. And Amazon’s push to electrify its fleet of delivery vehicles significantly reduces its large fuel bills. With large investors increasingly looking for ESG commitments from businesses they fund and skilled professionals keen to work for responsible companies, there are many reasons sustainability should be a strategic priority today.

2. Greenwashing

In 2025, greenwashing—the practice of claiming green credentials for kudos rather than making genuine change—is under intense scrutiny. An example is fossil fuel businesses that promote sustainability while continuing to extract non-renewable resources. However, as businesses have become aware of the increasing demand for green products and services, this activity has become common across industries. Consumers can often quickly see through empty claims and promises. Vehicle manufacturers were hit with huge fines and even bigger damage to their reputation for faking emissions tests while claiming to be lowering emissions. And Coca-Cola was similarly accused after being named the world’s worst plastics polluter while claiming to have improved the eco-friendliness of its products.

3. Overlooking Sustainability Along The Supply Chain

Businesses can spend millions on ensuring they have clean power, energy-efficient operations and flawless green credentials. But if their suppliers are polluting rivers, exploiting natural resources or contributing to deforestation, they have an ethical responsibility, too. In 2025, ensuring that sustainable practices are in place along your entire supply chain means ensuring you know how products are made, what materials are used, and what steps are taken by suppliers to minimize their own environmental footprint. Often overlooked, this is becoming increasingly regulated through legislation like the EU Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive. Businesses can no longer afford to turn a blind eye to the low standards or bad practices of their suppliers and partners without risking penalties, bad publicity and loss of consumer trust.

4. Failing To Effectively Use ESG Data

Many companies I encounter can be described as “data rich, insight poor.” Three decades into the internet age, many understand the importance of measuring, capturing and collecting digital data but lack the tools and expertise to know what it all means and, most pressingly, what they should do. It’s a big problem when sustainability initiatives can’t be measured, benchmarked and verified. With a lack of reliable insights, it’s very hard for companies to set meaningful targets and understand their progress towards meeting them. Today, failing to understand data means missing opportunities to drive growth while also improving the world, and that’s a serious mistake.

5. Taking Your Eye Off The Ball

It’s unfortunate but not entirely surprising, but there are reports that ESG is sliding down the list of business priorities. During turbulent economic and political times, the focus tends to shift to economic issues such as reducing the impact of inflation or supply chain disruption. This is almost certainly a mistake because the underlying issues driving the adoption of sustainable business—climate change, natural resource depletion, waste and pollution—aren’t going to vanish just because we decide there are higher priorities. Failing to adopt sustainable practices today could lead to serious challenges in the future, especially as non-renewable resources grow scarcer and political, environmental, and demographic disruptions intensify, as many predict will happen.

Conclusion

In conclusion, making critical sustainability mistakes can damage both a business’s reputation and its bottom line. By understanding and avoiding these common missteps, businesses can unlock the full potential of sustainability and drive long-term success. It is essential for companies to prioritize sustainability, avoid greenwashing, ensure sustainable practices along their supply chain, effectively use ESG data, and maintain focus on sustainability even during turbulent times.

FAQs

Q: Why is sustainability important for businesses?
A: Sustainability is important for businesses because it can unlock efficiencies, open up new markets, and build organizational resilience, ultimately driving long-term success.
Q: What is greenwashing, and why is it a problem?
A: Greenwashing is the practice of claiming green credentials for kudos rather than making genuine change. It is a problem because consumers can quickly see through empty claims and promises, leading to reputational damage and loss of trust.
Q: Why is it essential to ensure sustainable practices along the supply chain?
A: Ensuring sustainable practices along the supply chain is essential because businesses have an ethical responsibility to ensure that their suppliers are not polluting, exploiting natural resources, or contributing to deforestation.
Q: How can businesses effectively use ESG data?
A: Businesses can effectively use ESG data by measuring, capturing, and collecting digital data, and using tools and expertise to understand what it means and what they should do.
Q: Why should businesses maintain focus on sustainability even during turbulent times?
A: Businesses should maintain focus on sustainability even during turbulent times because the underlying issues driving the adoption of sustainable business—climate change, natural resource depletion, waste and pollution—aren’t going to vanish just because there are higher priorities.