Cupertino, California – June 10: Apple CEO Tim Cook speaks at the start of Apple's Annual Meeting. [+] Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) in Cupertino, California, June 10, 2024. Apple will unveil plans to incorporate artificial intelligence (AI) into Apple software and hardware. (Photo by Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)
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Here are five things that happened in tech this week and how they might affect your business. Did you miss anything?
1 – Everything Apple announced at the WWDC 2024 keynote, including Apple Intelligence, Siri improvements, and more.
At WWDC 2024, Apple made some exciting announcements about the latest updates across its software platform. iOS 18 introduces new features like enhanced multitasking, redesigned widgets, improved privacy controls, and a revamped Messages app. On the desktop, macOS 13 has a new Control Center, a redesigned Notification Center, an improved Finder app, and enhanced integration with iPad apps. Swift Playgrounds 5 (an app that helps users learn to code) has new tools for developers to create apps directly on iPad, making it easier for beginners to learn to code. (Source: TechCrunch)
Why this matters to your business:
Apple's approach to AI has been consistent – they don't release AI “products” like Gemini or Copilot, they simply build AI into their existing products, apps and hardware. As a business owner, you need to understand these features and work closely with your IT team to identify which ones will improve productivity in your office.
2 – Microsoft issues a “recall.”
After a flurry of criticism over Microsoft's recall feature, the company halted plans to further develop the project, citing security concerns. AI-powered tools that record people's actions and store the records on their computers could give hackers instant access to PCs. These “security pitfalls” have been acknowledged by Microsoft executives, including Pavan Davuluri, Microsoft's corporate VP of Windows and Devices. First, the feature will be offered as an opt-in tool rather than being integrated into Windows. (Source: Tools Report)
Why this matters to your business:
Given that I wrote about this last week, I'm not surprised. First, I want to thank Microsoft for listening and responding to the technology community. I'm sure there was a lot of agonizing over this decision. But please know that “recalls” aren't going away. It's now opt-in. And as Microsoft gets smarter about using recalls to fix issues and make devices work better, I think many of us will opt in as long as these security issues are resolved.
3 – Yahoo takes on Apple Intelligence and Google Gemini with its own AI features.
Yahoo plans to introduce its own AI capabilities to compete with Apple's Siri and Google's Gemini. Yahoo aims to use artificial intelligence to enhance its products and services and regain its position in the technology industry. The move shows that Yahoo recognizes the importance of AI to stay competitive and meet user expectations. By integrating AI capabilities into its products, Yahoo hopes to revitalize its brand and attract new users. (Source: TechRadar)
Why this matters to your business:
The changes aren't all that dramatic and are mostly focused on Yahoo Mail, but one thing caught my eye: tech writer Muskaan Saxena reports, “There's one big change that might be attractive enough to switch to Yahoo Mail: you'll soon be able to link your Yahoo inbox with other email accounts, like Gmail and Microsoft Outlook, and you'll be able to send and receive all your email directly through Yahoo Mail.”
4 – Adobe updates vague AI terms after users threaten to cancel subscriptions.
Following a public outcry, Adobe has promised that it will never use user-generated content to train its generative AI models. The decision comes in response to the immediate backlash that erupted after the company announced updated terms of use that allowed unlimited access to user content. A pop-up required users to agree to these terms in order to access Adobe's applications. The concerns and anger of the user community were clearly heard. The company has promised to develop AI responsibly and protect users' personal data from potential misuse. (Source: Ars Technica)
Why this matters to your business:
People are very sensitive about how their data is used, and many companies I know are very concerned about sharing corporate data with these AI platforms. Should you be concerned? Here are my thoughts.
5 – New collaborations could lead to better utilisation of warehouse space.
To address the challenges of space constraints for manufacturers, Tezmaksan Robot Technologies' CubeBox pallet pool system is integrated with advanced software that improves operational efficiency in manufacturing facilities. This integration streamlines logistics and inventory management while maximizing floor space utilization. Designed to optimize the handling and storage of goods, the system offers a cost-effective solution for companies seeking operational excellence in their production processes. (Source: Manufacturing Tomorrow)
Why this matters to your business:
With warehousing costs soaring, companies are faced with the challenge of making the most of every square foot and combining hardware, racking and other solutions to meet this challenge.
