In the ever-evolving world of technology, 2024 brought some exciting innovations alongside an alarming number of trends that expose the pitfalls of our current tech culture.From overhyped AI gimmicks to privacy erosion and unsustainable hardware practices, here are some of the worst tech trends of 2024 that have frustrated consumers and industry leaders and are unlikely to abate next year.1. Proliferation of Useless AI ToolsGenerative AI dominated 2023, but by 2024, the trend spiraled into absurdity. Countless companies have rolled out AI-powered tools that address non-existent problems or create entirely new ones.AI now generates everything from poorly edited videos and unintelligible blog posts to automatically written emails that require human intervention to fix. Tools that claim to offer productivity boosts often result in inefficiencies because of their flawed outputs.The flood of low-quality AI products has undermined trust in genuinely helpful AI innovations. Small businesses and consumers alike are overwhelmed by tools with overblown marketing promises.Many of these deficient AI solutions add another layer of automation without offering real value. This overproduction has created noise, making distinguishing truly transformative tools from mere gimmicks harder.2. Decline of Digital PrivacyFormer Oracle CEO Larry Ellison once famously said, Privacy is Dead. However, privacy has been resurrected and killed more times than a Tyrannosaurus Rex in a Jurassic Park sequel.Digital privacy continues to erode in 2024 as big tech companies push the boundaries of data collection under the guise of personalization. This year, the rise of AI-driven surveillance tools has become particularly concerning. Facial recognition is now integrated into everything from retail stores to public transportation systems without sufficient regulation or oversight.Hyper-targeted ads across platforms and connected technologies have reached a tipping point. New technologies scrape data from various devices at unprecedented levels, often without users consent or precise opt-out options. For instance, smart home devices have increasingly come under fire for tracking conversations and usage patterns far beyond their intended purpose.Perhaps most worrying is the resurgence of the were improving your experience excuse. Tech companies increasingly bypass GDPR-like protections by using convoluted terms of service agreements that make opting out prohibitively tricky. This unfortunate phenomenon sets a dangerous precedent for future interactions between consumers and technology.3. Tech Subscription FatigueMost tech users will identify with this trend. In 2024, the everything-as-a-service model has reached absurd new heights. From software to hardware, companies are turning more and more products into monthly subscriptions. Consumers are now paying subscriptions for products that were traditionally one-time purchases: car manufacturers charging for heated seats, printers requiring monthly fees to unlock ink usage, and even smart home locks demanding ongoing payments to access advanced features.The subscription model has become synonymous with monetizing basic functionality. What started with streaming platforms has now spread to nearly every product category. It has become overwhelming, financially unsustainable, and increasingly frustrating for many consumers. Companies risk alienating their customer base by prioritizing recurring revenue over user experience.4. Return of Vaporware and OverpromisesTech companies have revived a troubling trend of overhyping products that dont exist in usable forms. This year has been marked by grand promises of game-changing devices and services that either underdeliver or never materialize.One example is the push for AI PCs, where marketing campaigns tout devices with unmatched capabilities that remain largely theoretical. Similarly, augmented reality (AR) platforms have made headlines, yet most consumers still lack meaningful use cases beyond demo videos and niche applications.This trend mirrors the vaporware hype of the early 2000s, where buzzwords like digital transformation were attached to half-baked products. In 2024, buzzwords such as quantum-ready and AI-powered are increasingly slapped onto underdeveloped offerings to ride the tech wave, undermining consumer trust.While I am optimistic about the rise of PCs (both Windows and Mac, x86, Arm or Apple Silicon-based) with integrated AI technology at the silicon level, the jury is still out if mainstream consumers have drunk the AI Kool-Aid.5. E-Waste From Unnecessary UpgradesThe unsustainable tech upgrade cycle will worsen in 2025. Major hardware manufacturers continue to push minor annual refreshes of devices while retiring older models earlier than necessary. Smartphones, laptops, and wearables now seem designed for obsolescence, forcing users to replace functional devices far too soon. This approach has generated alarming levels of electronic waste. Consumers face limited repair options as companies lock down parts and restrict third-party fixes, leading to devices being thrown away rather than repaired. Additionally, the push for disposable devices contradicts the industrys public commitments to sustainability.In parallel, new hardware launches often emphasize gimmicky features, like foldable screens or AI-generated wallpapers, that offer little utility. Meanwhile, genuine performance improvements are increasingly incremental, leaving users questioning whether upgrades are worth the cost.6. Dystopian Applications of AI SurveillanceAI surveillance tools have seen rapid adoption, particularly in workplaces and schools. Employers increasingly turn to AI monitoring software to track productivity by analyzing keystrokes, screen activity, and facial expressions. This invasive approach erodes trust between employers and employees while normalizing intrusive surveillance practices.Similarly, schools have begun implementing AI tools to monitor students attention and behavior, often with flawed algorithms. These technologies reinforce punitive environments and disproportionately impact vulnerable communities. Critics argue that such systems prioritize control over genuine engagement or well-being.7. Social Medias Algorithmic DeclineSocial media algorithms in 2024 have become worse than ever, prioritizing engagement metrics over quality content. Platforms are flooded with clickbait, misinformation, and sensationalized posts designed to keep users scrolling endlessly. Genuine connection once the core promise of social media has been replaced by a relentless pursuit of ad revenue.Adding insult to injury, platforms have ramped up the push for paid verification and algorithmic boosts, forcing creators to pay for visibility. This pay-to-play model exacerbates inequality in content discovery, pushing smaller creators to the margins.Conclusion: A Call for Responsible InnovationWhile technology has the potential to improve lives, 2024 has brought forth trends that emphasize profit, surveillance, and short-term gains over long-term innovation and ethical considerations.From the glut of useless AI tools to worsening e-waste and dystopian surveillance practices, its clear that the tech industry needs a course correction.Consumers, regulators, and innovators alike must push for responsible, meaningful advancement since ignoring it will allow these trends to define the future of technology.

Apple, Samsung Users Unimpressed by AI on Their Phones: SurveyBy John P. Mello Jr.December 18, 2024 5:00 AM PT ADVERTISEMENTEngage with IT decision makers and key influencers. TechNewsWorld's B2B marketing services deliver sales-ready leads that shorten your sales process. Fill your funnel and grow revenue with our lead gen expertise. Get Started Today. While artificial intelligence has juiced the marketing departments of smartphone makers like Apple and Samsung, it isnt generating much enthusiasm among users, according to a survey released Monday by a used electronics selling site.The survey by SellCell of more than 2,000 iPhone and Samsung users found that 73% of iPhone and 87% of Samsung users said that the AI features on their phones added little to no value to their smartphone experience.Users low opinion of the AI on their phones reflects confusion in the market. While companies are saying now with AI or AI included, theyre not telling users what to do with it, said HP Newquist, executive director of The Relayer Group, a business consulting firm in New York City.Theyre telling users, you now have access to AI. You can now use AI, he told TechNewsWorld. Theyre just saying, here it is. Youve got it now. And quite frankly, thats not a compelling reason to use AI.Were getting AI thrust at us, and I think consumers are completely nonplussed by that, he observed.Were finding the same exact thing in corporate America, he continued. Theyre getting told, you need to use generative AI. You need to use agentic AI. But theyre not being told how specifically it can benefit them. Until thats made clear both at the consumer and the corporate level, you are going to have a fairly tepid response from first-time users.AI Not Well UnderstoodPrivacy concerns may be dampening enthusiasm about AI among iPhone users, contended Mark N. Vena, president and principal analyst at SmartTech Research in Las Vegas. Apple users have high expectations for data protection and skepticism about whether the features offer meaningful improvements beyond what competitors already provide, he told TechNewsWorld.Limited compatibility, with AI features likely restricted to newer iPhone models, may also alienate users of older devices, he added.On the Samsung side of things, Vena continued, Galaxy AI lacks differentiation from other Android-based AI offerings, which may reduce excitement. Samsungs features might appear incremental rather than groundbreaking.Additionally, inconsistent user experiences with Samsungs software and AI across devices could contribute to lower enthusiasm, compared to the more tightly integrated Apple ecosystem, he said. Greg Sterling, co-founder of Near Media, a market research firm in San Francisco, asserted that one of the central problems with Apple Intelligence is that its not well explained or well understood by the public. Apple needs to do more to educate people about what the features are and when they will be available, he told TechNewsWorld.Tim Bajarin, president of Creative Strategies, a technology advisory firm in San Jose, Calif., agreed. AI integration in smartphones is new and not well understood by the average user, he told TechNewsWorld. Google and Apple need to do more tutorial-like posts that show users the new AI features and how to use them.AI requires you to learn how to prompt, and its not easy, added Rob Enderle, president and principal analyst at the Enderle Group, an advisory services firm in Bend, Ore.So we have a lot of training in front of us with regard to users knowing how to use this stuff, he told TechNewsWorld. I would expect the survey to be bad this early simply because Apple Intelligence hasnt been available for very long, and people just dont know how to use it yet.Long Rollout Dampens ExuberanceSterling added that the multiple features clustered under the rubric Apple Intelligence are rolling out incrementally over time, so users havent really seen the concrete benefits yet. In a year or two, I suspect this survey would have different outcomes, he predicted.Will Kerwin, an equity analyst with Morningstar Research Services in Chicago, also cited the drawn-out rollout of Apple Intelligence as a source of consumer apathy toward AI on their iPhones. We believe itll take consumers time to fully bake in how Apple Intelligence is most useful to them and adapt personal habits, he told TechNewsWorld.This all informs our view that Apple iPhone sales driven by AI will be stronger in fiscal 2026 than they are currently in fiscal 2025, he said.Runar Bjrhovde, an analyst with Canalys, a global market research company, added: The stark reality is that most people dont buy phones because of AI. They buy because of different features. If we think of the type of features that AI has enabled, they are not that interesting right now, he told TechNewsWorld.Its honestly not that surprising right now that AI features might disappoint people a bit because theyre not as advanced in reality as some of the marketing and messaging say they are, he said.Bjrhovde maintained that many tech firms are having an existential crisis, where theyve lost the huge hype and interest that people have had in them for the last 20 years.They have to come up with new stories to try and get people interested, he contended. So, AI is a gold mine right now. I believe it can give us some really interesting innovations in a few years. But for now, it is this marketing bubble where people dont actually know what to believe.Decline in LoyaltyThe SellCell survey also found that about one in six iPhone users (16.8%) said they would consider switching to Samsung if it offered better AI features. In contrast, only 9.7% of Samsung users said theyd consider moving to Apple for better AI features.It added that the percentage of users loyal to Apple has declined from 92% in 2021 to 78.9% now. That compares to a decline from 74% to 67.2% over the same period for Samsung.In general, the excitement around Apples annual upgrade cycle has declined a lot, said Ross Rubin, the principal analyst at Reticle Research, a consumer technology advisory firm in New York City.These AI features are an attempt to inject something new and exciting into the experience, he told TechNewsWorld. But consumers are looking for a baseline of functionality and dont think the platform is as much of an issue anymore.Still, the finding that so many Apple users might be willing to jump ship for AI is surprising, he acknowledged. Apple users just tend to be far more likely to opt into Apple services, he explained. Because of the App Store investments, you cant necessarily move all that stuff to another platform. So that makes the reported greater willingness to switch surprising.However, not everyone sees Apples fan base as waning. We dont see brand loyalty slipping in our surveys, Bajarin declared. We expect Apple to have a blockbuster holiday season, with iPhone sales and drawing many switchers to the Apple ecosystem.We also dont think loyalty to Apple is going away, Kerwin added. In our view, iPhone users are significantly likely to remain iPhone users, and AI features are just another means of locking them into Apples ecosystem.John P. Mello Jr. has been an ECT News Network reporter since 2003. His areas of focus include cybersecurity, IT issues, privacy, e-commerce, social media, artificial intelligence, big data and consumer electronics. He has written and edited for numerous publications, including the Boston Business Journal, the Boston Phoenix, Megapixel.Net and Government Security News. Email John.Leave a CommentClick here to cancel reply. 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Many amazing products launched this year, and well cover some of them. However, unlike most years when the decision was difficult, one product stood out well above the rest as revolutionary. What made it particularly special was that it was a bold bet that paid off and helped its manufacturer become one of, and for a time, the most valuable company in the world.Typically, I dont do a Product of the Week for this column as it focuses on the Product of the Year, but I ran into a confection that Ive become almost addicted to, thanks to my love of dark chocolate, so Im compelled to squeeze it in. Its from a small company called Sweet as Fudge. So, before we revisit 2024 and discuss some of the standout products, lets talk about this chocolate.The product is Dark Chocolate Triple-Dipped Malt Balls. Theres also a sugar-free version thats surprisingly good. A pound costs around $15, but these things are so good. I keep them in the refrigerator so they melt more slowly in my mouth. If you are into chocolate and like malt (chocolate malt is my go-to drink in the summer), give them a try this holiday season.Now, on to the main event. Lets begin with the contenders that didnt quite make the top of my list and conclude with the one that earned the title of Product of the Year.Fisker OceanImage Credit: FiskerIts a shame this company didnt survive the year, but the Fisker Ocean which I had planned to buy was arguably the best electric SUV on paper. It had a bunch of cool, unique features like a solar panel roof and a pull-up table so the driver could enjoy a snack or meal in the car without making a mess.This eSUV was well-designed and had decent range, and I thought it was one of the best-looking vehicles in the market. Operating inefficiencies and apparently some financial mismanagement killed the company and the car. RIP Fisker.2025 Audi RS e-tron GT PerformanceImage Credit: Audi CommunicationsI bought a used 2022 Audi e-tron GT after Fisker went under. Right after I bought it, Audi released the 2025 model, and it is a beast. It has nearly 1,000 HP, giving it blazing performance (more than I need as my base car is quick enough), hydraulic suspension allowing it to adjust its height nearly instantly, and the car is beautiful.Oh, they added around 100 miles of range over my car, making it far more useful for a daily driver. At $171,000, it is out of my budget range, but wow, what a car!Hyundai Ioniq 5 NImage Credit: HyundaiI think Hyundais approach with the Ioniq 5 N electric car is the way to go for those who miss the engine sound and gear shifting in a manual gas car. This Hyundai is arguably the most fun electric car in the world. It does a decent job faking engine sounds, and shifting feels like you are shifting a car even though this is emulated and actually makes the car slower. But it is incredibly fun to drive and reasonably quick (0 to 60 in 3.25 seconds).The Hyundai Ioniq 5 Nisnt badly priced for a performance car that lists under $70,000, and its likely quicker than your buddys far more expensive exotic car.OpenAIs ChatGPTWow, talk about an offering that changed the world! ChatGPT is the core technology under both Apple and Microsofts AI efforts. Its Dall-E capability for images is impressive (as is Googles Gemini, which I also use), and it has changed the way many of us write software, create images, and even write complete works.ChatGPT has been advancing incredibly quickly, and with artificial general intelligence (AGI) it promises to change how we create what we read. ChatGPT and its peers are starting to change what we watch. It is a truly revolutionary platform, though Googles Gemini Advanced is no slouch either. While ChatGPT launched before 2024, it became the basis for both Microsofts and Apples huge AI efforts this year.Windows 365 LinkEver since the PC came out, weve essentially been asking to go back to terminals. We love the freedom the PC gives us, but we arent crazy about the complexity of supporting them ourselves, particularly at scale. Microsoft helped create the problem, and, to be fair, it has mitigated a lot of the related pain by improving Windows.However, Windows 365 Link is a nearly instant, on-terminal-like device that promises and mostly delivers Windows capabilities with the reliability and simplicity of a terminal. Its kind of a Back to the Future product and a bit of a man-bites-dog story. I expect this to be the future of the PC eventually.BlueskyImage by Author / GeminiEver since Elon Musk bought Twitter, many of us have been looking for an alternative. Each time we got excited about a new effort, we were disappointed.Bluesky has been the closest thing to a better Twitter so far, and more and more people I know have migrated to it. Given its distributed architecture, it also has some technical advantages over X/Twitter.Its moderation, in my opinion, appears to be better than Twitters. It was a huge step in the right direction, and I hope it makes it into our future.Google Pixel 9 Pro FoldThe Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold is now the phone I carry, and it is awesome. The updates to the phone have been helpful. It locks if it moves suddenly, as if someone stole it, for instance. It also locks if you are reading in a plane when it takes off, but you can just log in again. It folds out into a small tablet, so if I dont have my glasses handy, I can still make the text large enough to read. Speaking of reading, it is the best e-book alternative since the discontinued Microsoft Duo.I wish Google had used a Qualcomm Snapdragon instead of its own processor, but the difference isnt as bad as it was with the first Fold. Im just loving this phone.Huawei Mate XT Tri-Fold SmartphoneHuawei has demonstrated remarkable ingenuity by navigating technological restrictions to deliver one of the most desirable smartphones in the world, despite some initial growing pains because this was almost an entirely new platform.Given that Huawei wasnt allowed to buy the technology from the U.S., this three-screen phone that went from iPhone to iPad size is a technical marvel. It showcases where we will likely go with phones and set itself apart from competitive devices this year.Huawei remains impressive, considering the problems posed by the conflicts between the U.S. and China this year. Impressive work.Lenovo Auto Twist AI PC ConceptLenovo is another company that stood out this year in terms of sheer innovation. The product that most caught my eye was the ThinkBook Auto-Twist AI PC Concept.What makes this PC different is that it automatically pans the screen and on-board camera based on where you are in the room. This feature is particularly handy for those of us who have to move around during team calls or when you need to watch a how-to video while doing something else.Watching that screen swivel automatically so it remained focused on the user was awesome. As AI advances, I expect well see even more innovation when it comes to AI PCs.HP Print AIFor me, 2024 was defined by AI innovations. The HP Print AI offering, released in September, directly addresses a lot of our aggravation with printers, automatically formatting things for pages without cutting off the borders and positioning the data and graphics so that each print job is perfect.Weve all had issues when printing a document and not having it lay up properly. Spreadsheets are the worst, often printing one line or column on a page and then kicking out hundreds of useless print copies that make little or no sense, like this:Image Credit: HPHP Print AI will auto-format print jobs, so the printed document is useful. The AI analyzes your print job based on past training to determine the optimal format. Then, it auto-configures for that result so each print job is as perfect as the AI can make it, like this:Image Credit: HPPrinter technology needs to be moved into this decade, and this software from HP should do that. Expect to see more advances like this from many companies that plan to use AI to address customer frustrations with their products.Disney BDX RobotsThe BDX robots are part of Project Groot and use Nvidias Jetson robotic technology. Youll see them at Disney parks, and eventually, youll be able to buy one.This little guy is the closest to a real Star Wars-like robot Ive ever found. I wish Id been smart enough to invest in Lucas Films back then rather than spending my money on going to that first Star Wars movie over and over and over again. BDX showcased how far robotics has come, and well be seeing a lot of amazing robots you can buy in 2025.Nvidia Blackwell B200 GPUImage Credit: NvidiaWhen Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang first presented Blackwell, it was a fantastic event that showcased how a company should release a revolutionary product. This GPU is massive in terms of performance and power requirements, and it is forcing a gigantic pivot from air to water cooling in cloud and enterprise data centers as the world pivots to AI.The backstory on this part and Nvidias entire AI effort is a tale of legend. Back in the early 2000s, when only IBM was really working with AI, Jensen Huang became convinced it was a much more near-term future event. For much of the next 20 years, Nvidias financial performance dragged as the company basically bet its future on AI. Had Huang not been a founder, he likely would have been fired.Then OpenAI asked for help, and Nvidia provided it. Thanks to Nvidia, we now have generative AI that works. Blackwell is the current culmination of this work, a massive GPU that is extremely power-hungry but also incredibly efficient. While it uses a ton of power, it does much more work than any group of other GPUs or NPUs can do with that same power.AMDs Threadripper CPU was equally innovative, but it was designed for existing market needs. Nvidia was working on Blackwell before AI became a market, and thats just never done. By taking what seemed to be an unreasonable risk and executing on it, Nvidia caught its competitors sleeping, and now Nvidia is nearly synonymous with AI.Back when there were pensions, CEO compensation was more reasonable, and boards more supportive of long-term strategic moves, an effort like this wouldnt have been that unusual. But in todays world, you just dont see that.Nvidias Blackwell effort gave me hope that the U.S. might be able to return to a more strategic future. It caught the imagination of a world increasingly focused on and concerned about AI. Blackwell was a once-in-a-generation leap in performance and a massive bet that could have gone badly, so it is my choice for Product of the Year.

As a lifelong New York Giants fan, its been hard to suffer through the 2024 season, culminating last weekend in the Giants most recent debacle, losing to the below-average New Orleans Saints on a botched field goal in the last seconds of the game.In my disgust in the aftermath of the game, it occurred to me: Is present-day Intel the equivalent of the 2024 Giants? It sounds like a ridiculous question, but the similarities are eerie.Lets face it: The two titans of their industries the New York Giants in professional football and Intel in technology have struggled through severe scrutiny and poor performance the past few years. Both were once at the top of their fields, making headlines and defining periods, so its easy to draw analogies between them.For the Giants, simply beyond the sheer shoddiness of the on-field performance over the past few years (the team hasnt been to the Super Bowl since 2012), management made one of the most idiotic decisions of all time before the season began by extending a questionable long-term contract to franchise quarterback Daniel Jones and allowing Saquon Barkley to sign with its divisional rival, the Philadelphia Eagles. Now, Barkley is having one of the greatest seasons of all time for a running back.As for Intel, the company has struggled to maintain market share in the PC space over the past few years, conceded the smartphone space after it passed over Apples request for a suitable silicon solution for its iPhone in 2007 (which would have ecosystem ramifications that Apple has taken advantage of), not to mention missing the overall industry movement to Arm-based architectures for mobile devices and even laptops.Both organizations are currently under fire for their (at least perceived) inability to give fans and customers a modicum of faith that turnarounds were in the making. Although there are similarities between their difficulties, a deeper examination shows that Intels problems are essentially distinct from the New York Giants of 2024 and are being addressed in a way that distinguishes the company from them.Giant IssuesThe New York Giants, a legendary NFL team that has won four Super Bowls, was under tremendous pressure going into the 2024 campaign.Recent years have been characterized by inconsistent play, dubious coaching choices, and poor player development. In todays NFL, the team has had difficulty adjusting when creative play-calling and analytics-driven tactics are paramount.The Giants have mostly failed to take advantage of their chances despite brief flashes of potential, which has created discouraged supporters and experts doubtful of their prospects, as well as exasperating season ticket holders like me.Difficulties Facing IntelIntel used to be the undisputed leader in its industry. The company literally controlled the semiconductor market for many years, establishing the chip innovation and performance benchmark. But a slew of upheavals in the 2020s put its hegemony in jeopardy. The emergence of rivals like AMD and Nvidia and the advanced manufacturing technology pioneered by Taiwan Semiconductor have compelled Intel to confront its weaknesses.The leading cause of Intels problems is the companys delay in switching to sophisticated manufacturing nodes. Due to setbacks with its 10nm and 7nm nodes, Intel lost market share in essential categories, while Taiwan Semiconductor and Samsung advanced with their state-of-the-art 5nm and 3nm processes. These challenges were exacerbated by the increasing use of Arm-based architectures, especially in AI and mobile applications, where Intels x86 architecture has struggled to stay competitive. Although the Giants and Intel face formidable obstacles, their responses distinguish them. The Giants have frequently seemed hapless, switching quarterbacks and coaches in an attempt to find a short-term solution. Due to their inability to develop a clear plan of action, fans and experts are beginning to doubt the franchises long-term survival.In contrast, Intel has attempted to take serious action to overcome its obstacles. Under the direction of CEO Pat Gelsinger, the company launched a daring plan to regain its place at the forefront of the semiconductor industry.The core of this endeavor is Intels IDM 2.0 strategy, which aims to increase its role as a foundry for third-party clients while modernizing its manufacturing capabilities. By doing this, Intel hopes to take on Taiwan Semiconductor and Samsung head-to-head as a manufacturing giant and chip designer.Additionally, Intel has increased its focus on cutting-edge technologies. Its attempts to create specialized chips for data centers and its investments in AI-specific hardware, such as the Gaudi AI accelerators, demonstrate a proactive approach to the upcoming wave of computing innovation. In fairness to Intel, these actions have revealed a business willing to own up to its mistakes while working to influence the future rather than merely responding to it.Changes in Culture and LeadershipAn organizations ability to overcome hardships is largely dependent on its leadership. With numerous coaching staff changes and a front office that frequently appears out of step with the teams demands, the Giants have had difficulty establishing a permanent leadership structure. This unpredictability has led to a lack of direction and identity on the field. Watch any of the Giants losses over the past few seasons, and its hard to dispute this.In contrast, Intel enjoyed reasonable unity and support when Pat Gelsinger rejoined the company. Gelsinger prioritized a return to Intels engineering foundation while cultivating an innovative and accountable culture. Ambitious aims and a willingness to take chances characterized his tenure, which contrasts sharply with the Giants more cautious strategy.Legacy Is a Double-Edged SwordThe Giants and Intel are both burdened by their histories. The Giants rich past makes them feel both proud and burdened, which makes their recent setbacks even more disappointing. Because of the teams illustrious background, supporters find it challenging to make sense of its current hardships in light of its former success. Being a pioneer in its industry comes with expectations, which Intel also struggles with. The impact of the companys errors is exacerbated by its standing as a technology innovator. However, Intels heritage offers distinct advantages, including a wealth of technical know-how, solid industry ties, and a still enviable reputation, especially with legacy PC OEMs like HP, Dell, and Lenovo. These resources have put Intel in a position to build on its prior achievements and focus on future expansion.Extended Future for IntelThe timelines of their various sectors represent one of the most considerable distinctions between Intel and the Giants. NFL teams follow an annual cycle, and their fortunes frequently fluctuate depending on how one season turns out. Failures are front-page news, and because of their immediacy, it has become challenging for the Giants to bounce back from in the near future.Timelines are lengthier in the tech sector, though. Years pass during semiconductor development cycles, and strategic choices cannot have their full effects for ten years.Intel has more time to accomplish its ambitions and bounce back from setbacks because of this longer horizon. While Intels problems have been more gradual and (in theory) allow for course correction and progressive development, Wall Street is typically not patient, and investors get nervous when they dont sense positive signs of leading indicators like market share gains and revenue increases.Intels Path AheadDespite its struggles, Intel is not a business that is content to let things go. Intel is setting itself up for a long-term resurgence with its IDM 2.0 strategy, AI initiatives, and redoubled emphasis on silicon excellence.Some now contend that Intel will never regain its position as the semiconductor industry leader, and its issues are so complicated that they might not be resolved. Due to the companys manufacturing delays, AMD and Nvidia have increased market share, further widening the gap as Intel prepares for the 18A production phase.Furthermore, Intels foundry sector has had trouble attracting customers, which has made its recovery attempts more difficult. Pat Gelsingers resignation highlights the need for strong leadership and creative ideas after his tenure saw a significant drop in stock value. Restoring investor trust and industry stature will need strategic restructuring and a fresh emphasis on execution, which will be highly challenging due to internal resistance to whoever takes over as Intels leader.Its easy to forget that many analysts welcomed Gelsingers return to Intel in 2021 with hope because they thought his familiarity with the firm, his grasp of the silicon industry, his focus on customers, and his visionary attributes were precisely what was required to turn the giant around. However, under his direction, Intel had endeavored to overcome several obstacles, such as a lag in manufacturing improvements and heightened competition from rivals like AMD and Nvidia. Due to these problems, Intels stock value significantly dropped, wiping out almost $150 billion in market capitalization.Although some have claimed that Gelsinger just needed more time to carry out his plan effectively, the companys board thought differently and finally decided that a drastic change in direction, starting with a change in CEO, was required.Despite being interesting and even amusing, the connection between Intel and the 2024 New York Giants ultimately falls short considering all that.Even if both organizations are going through difficult times, Intels approach shows a degree of strategic vision and flexibility that the Giants have not yet shown. Intel is building the foundation for a future that solidifies its position as a leader in the technology industry, not just battling to remain relevant. If Intel is a behemoth, it is undergoing reinvention rather than decline, which it must do if the company is to grow.There are reasons to be optimistic for Intel. Its Lunar Lake family of processors is showing favorable performance and battery life comparisons to Apple Silicon and even offerings from Qualcomm, which has made a great deal of favorable news with its Snapdragon Elite solutions for laptops.High Stakes for Intels Next CEOIntels incoming CEO, whoever that might be, will have one of the greatest corporate turnaround challenges in tech history. The company will have to dramatically cut headcount, which makes Intels cut of 15,000 people earlier in the year look like a pinprick.Intel seems committed to its foundry strategy, which will require years of investment before it yields significant returns. In a post-Biden Administration world, the company may be unable to rely on the federal government for further investment in its foundry business. To top all of that, some customers may not be comfortable with Intels church and state strategy of manufacturing non-Intel chips in Intel factories. Intels chances for success will largely depend on its new leader. I advise hiring someone from the outside who is not an Intel insider who might be influenced by legacy Intel personnel who have developed a survival mentality and are reluctant to take risks. Intels new CEO will likely be the most-watched tech hire of 2025, as their leadership will provide critical insights into the companys future.The new CEO will also have to deal with a management team who have remained the many cuts the company has gone through and might be unwilling to make the necessary changes Intel must undertake, as legacy management will be in survivor mode and unlikely to take risks.As for the Giants, Im horrified to state that Im not optimistic. For the first time in my 46 years as a season ticket holder (shelling out over $200,000 during that period), Im contemplating giving them up. Or maybe Ill just play Madden 2025 on my Xbox One for the remainder of the season and not waste my team watching Big Blue suffer.Fortunately for Intel, it is not at that point. The company controls its destiny, but time is not on its side, so its incoming CEO must show results quickly and tangibly.

Googles Willow Chip Has Quantum Developers Weeping With JoyBy John P. Mello Jr.December 11, 2024 5:00 AM PT ADVERTISEMENTYour Salesforce Data, Your ResponsibilityLearn best practices to effortlessly protect your Salesforce Data with Rubrik. Find Out How Google announced a major step forward in the development of a commercial quantum computer on Tuesday, releasing test results for its Willow quantum chip.Those results show that the more qubits Google used in Willow, the more errors it reduced and the more quantum the system became.Googles achievement in quantum error correction is a significant milestone toward practical quantum computing, said Florian Neukart, chief product officer at Terra Quantum, a developer of quantum algorithms, computing solutions, and security applications, in Saint Gallen, Switzerland.It addresses one of the largest hurdles maintaining coherence and reducing errors during computation, he told TechNewsWorld.Qubits, the basic information unit in quantum computing, are extremely sensitive to their environment. Any disturbances around them can cause them to lose their quantum properties, which is called decoherence. Maintaining qubit stability or coherence long enough to perform useful computations has been a significant challenge for developers.Decoherence also makes quantum computers error-prone, which is why Googles announcement is so important. Effective error correction is essential to the development of a practical quantum computer.Willow marks an important milestone on the journey toward fault-tolerant quantum computing, said Rebecca Krauthamer, CEO of QuSecure, a maker of quantum-safe security solutions in San Mateo, Calif.Its a step closer to making quantum systems commercially viable, she told TechNewsWorld.Progress Toward Large-Scale Quantum ComputingIn a company blog, Google Vice President of Engineering Hartmut Neven explained that researchers tested ever-larger arrays of physical qubits, scaling up from a grid of 33 encoded qubits, to a grid of 55, to a grid of 77. With each advance, they cut the error rate in half. In other words, we achieved an exponential reduction in the error rate, he wrote.This historic accomplishment is known in the field as below threshold being able to drive errors down while scaling up the number of qubits, he continued.The machines are very sensitive, and noise builds up both from any external influence as well as from use itself, said Simon Fried, vice president for business development and marketing at Classiq, a developer of software for quantum computers, in Tel Aviv, Israel. Being able to minimize noise or compensate for it makes it possible to run longer, more complex programs, he told TechNewsWorld.This is significant progress in terms of chip tech because of the inherent stability of the hardware as well as its ability to control noise, he added.Neven also noted that as the first system below the threshold, this is the most convincing prototype for a scalable logical qubit built to date. Its a strong sign that useful, very large quantum computers can indeed be built, he wrote. Willow brings us closer to running practical, commercially-relevant algorithms that cant be replicated on conventional computers.Willows Implications for the Multiverse and SecurityGoogle also released data on Willows performance based on a common quantum computer test known as the random circuit sampling (RCS) benchmark. [I]t checks whether a quantum computer is doing something that couldnt be done on a classical computer, Neven explained. Any team building a quantum computer should check first if it can beat classical computers on RCS; otherwise, there is strong reason for skepticism that it can tackle more complex quantum tasks.Neven called Willows performance on the RCS benchmark astonishing. It performed a computation in under five minutes that would take one of todays fastest supercomputers 10 septillion years thats 10 followed by 25 zeroes.This mind-boggling number exceeds known timescales in physics and vastly exceeds the age of the universe, he wrote. It lends credence to the notion that quantum computation occurs in many parallel universes, in line with the idea that we live in a multiverse. Chris Hickman, chief security officer at Keyfactor, a digital identity management company in Cleveland, hailed Willow as a significant milestone in quantum computing but cautioned that Willows advanced quantum error correction brings the field closer to practical quantum applications, signaling that businesses need to prioritize preparation for the inevitable disruption of quantum computing in areas like encryption and security.While this development doesnt immediately alter the expected timeline for quantum computers to break current encryption standards, it reinforces the idea that progress towards this milestone is accelerating, he told TechNewsWorld.Practical use cases for quantum computers go beyond applications that stand to benefit businesses, he said. Bad actors will inevitably leverage the technology for their own nefarious benefit.Hackers will leverage quantum computers to decrypt sensitive information, rendering legacy cryptographic methods obsolete, he continued. These include algorithms like RSA and ECC, which are currently considered unbreakable.Beware the Quantum Cure-AllKarl Holmqvist, founder and CEO of Lastwall, a provider of identity-centric and quantum-resilient technologies, in Mountain View, Calif., agreed that the rate of development of cryptographically relevant quantum computers is accelerating. But I also understand that there are skeptics who think development is not as close as it seems or that it may never arrive, he told TechNewsWorld.So, my question to everyone is this: Given that we will either deploy quantum-resilient solutions too early or too late, which scenario carries more risk? he asked. Would you rather understand the implications of post-quantum cryptographic deployments, test them in your environments, and be prepared to rapidly deploy when needed or risk losing your secrets? In his blog, Neven also revealed why he changed his focus from artificial intelligence to quantum computing. My answer is that both will prove to be the most transformational technologies of our time, but advanced AI will significantly benefit from access to quantum computing, he wrote.Quantum computing is inherently designed to tackle complex problems, so it could be very helpful with the development of AI, noted Edward Tian, CEO of GPTZero, maker of an AI detection platform in Arlington, Va. However, we have seen instances of classical AI still being the better method, he told TechNewsWorld.I came out of AI and entered the quantum computing world specifically because of the promise quantum computing has to unlock doors that remain shut in a classical computing world, added QuSecures Krauthamer.However, she had a word of caution about the technology. A quantum computer is not simply a bigger, faster, more powerful computer, she said. It thinks in a fundamentally different way and, therefore, will solve different types of problems than we can today. It is wise to be skeptical if quantum computing is presented as a cure-all for challenging computation tasks.John P. Mello Jr. has been an ECT News Network reporter since 2003. His areas of focus include cybersecurity, IT issues, privacy, e-commerce, social media, artificial intelligence, big data and consumer electronics. He has written and edited for numerous publications, including the Boston Business Journal, the Boston Phoenix, Megapixel.Net and Government Security News. Email John.Leave a CommentClick here to cancel reply. Please sign in to post or reply to a comment. New users create a free account.Related StoriesMore by John P. Mello Jr.view allMore in Chips

Job Seekers Targeted by Scammers in Mobile Phishing CampaignBy John P. Mello Jr.December 10, 2024 5:00 AM PT ADVERTISEMENTConnect with IT purchasing decision-makersMaximize your reach with TechNewsWorld's B2B marketing solutions. We deliver the highest-quality leads to streamline your sales journey. Fill your pipeline and elevate your revenue using our proven lead-generation strategies. Learn more. A sophisticated mobile phishing campaign targeting job seekers intended to install dangerous malicious software on their phones was revealed Tuesday by security researchers.The campaign discovered by Zimperium zLabs targets Android mobile phones and aims to distribute a variant of the Antidot banking trojan that the researchers have dubbed AppLite Banker.The AppLite banking trojans ability to steal credentials from critical applications like banking and cryptocurrency makes this scam highly dangerous, said Jason Soroko, a senior fellow at Sectigo, a certificate lifecycle management provider in Scottsdale, Ariz.As mobile phishing continues to rise, its crucial for individuals to remain vigilant about unsolicited job offers and always verify the legitimacy of links before clicking, he told TechNewsWorld.The AppLite banking trojan requires permissions through the phones accessibility features, added James McQuiggan, a security awareness advocate at KnowBe4, a security awareness training provider in Clearwater, Fla.If the user is unaware, he told TechNewsWorld, they can allow full control over their device, making personal data, GPS location, and other information available for the cybercriminals.Pig Butchering TacticIn a blog on Zimperiums website, researcher Vishnu Pratapagiri explained that attackers present themselves as recruiters, luring unsuspecting victims with job offers. As part of their fraudulent hiring process, he continued, the phishing campaign tricks victims into downloading a malicious application that acts as a dropper, eventually installing AppLite.The attackers behind this phishing campaign demonstrated a remarkable level of adaptability, leveraging diverse and sophisticated social engineering strategies to target their victims, Pratapagiri wrote.A key tactic employed by the attackers involves masquerading as a job recruiter or HR representatives from well-known organizations, he continued. Victims are enticed to respond to fraudulent emails, carefully crafted to resemble authentic job offers or requests for additional information.People are desperate to get a job, so when they see remote work, good pay, good benefits, they text back, noted Steve Levy, principal talent advisor with DHI Group, parent company of Dice, a career marketplace for candidates seeking technology-focused roles and employers looking to hire tech talent globally, in Centennial, Colo.That starts the snowball rolling, he told TechNewsWorld. Its called pig butchering. Farmers will fatten a pig little by little, so when its time to cook it, theyre really big and juicy.After the initial communication, Pratapagiri explained that the threat actors direct victims to download a purported CRM Android application. While appearing legitimate, this application functions as a malicious dropper, facilitating the deployment of the primary payload onto the victims device.Illustration of one of the methods employed to distribute and execute the AppLite malware on the victims mobile device. (Credit: Zimperium)Dramatic Shift to Mobile AttacksStephen Kowski, field CTO at SlashNext, a computer and network security company in Pleasanton, Calif., noted that the AppLite campaign represents a sophisticated evolution of techniques first seen in Operation Dream Job, a global campaign run in 2023 by the infamous North Korean Lazarus group.While the original Operation Dream Job used LinkedIn messages and malicious attachments to target job seekers in the defense and aerospace sectors, todays attacks have expanded to exploit mobile vulnerabilities through fraudulent job application pages and banking trojans, he explained.The dramatic shift to mobile-first attacks is evidenced by the fact that 82% of phishing sites now specifically target mobile devices, with 76% using HTTPS to appear legitimate, he told TechNewsWorld.The threat actors have refined their social engineering tactics, moving beyond simple document-based malware to deploy sophisticated mobile banking trojans that can steal credentials and compromise personal data, demonstrating how these campaigns continue to evolve and adapt to exploit new attack surfaces, Kowski explained. Our internal data shows that users are four times more likely to click on malicious emails when using mobile devices compared to desktops, added Mika Aalto, co-founder and CEO of Hoxhunt, a provider of enterprise security awareness solutions in Helsinki.Whats even more concerning is that mobile users tend to click on these malicious emails at an even larger rate during the late night hours or very early in the morning, which suggests that people are more vulnerable to attacks on mobile when their defenses are down, he told TechNewsWorld. Attackers are clearly aware of this and are continually evolving their tactics to exploit these vulnerabilities.This new wave of cyber scams underscores the evolving tactics used by cybercriminals to exploit job seekers who are motivated to make a prospective employer happy, observed Soroko.By capitalizing on individuals trust in legitimate-looking job offers, attackers can infect mobile devices with sophisticated malware that targets financial data, he said. The use of Android devices, in particular, highlights the growing trend of mobile-specific phishing campaigns.Be careful what you sideload on an Android device, he cautioned.Enterprises Need Protection, TooDHIs Levy noted that attacks on job seekers arent limited to mobile phones. I dont think this is simply relegated to mobile phones, he said. Were seeing this on all the social platforms. Were seeing this on LinkedIn, Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram.Not only are these scams common, theyre very insidious, he declared. They prey on the emotional situation of job seekers.I probably get three to four of these text inquiries a week, he continued. They all go into my junk folder automatically. These are the new versions of the Nigerian prince emails that ask you to send them $1,000, and theyll give you $10 million back. Beyond its ability to mimic enterprise companies, AppLite can also masquerade as Chrome and TikTok apps, demonstrating a wide range of target vectors, including full device takeover and application access.The level of access provided [to] the attackers could also include corporate credentials, application, and data if the device was used by the user for remote work or access for their existing employer, Pratapagiri wrote.As mobile devices have become essential to business operations, securing them is crucial, especially to protect against the large variety of different types of phishing attacks, including these sophisticated mobile-targeted phishing attempts, said Patrick Tiquet, vice president for security and architecture of Keeper Security, a password management and online storage company, in Chicago.Organizations should implement robust mobile device management policies, ensuring that both corporate-issued and BYOD devices comply with security standards, he told TechNewsWorld. Regular updates to both devices and security software will ensure that vulnerabilities are promptly patched, safeguarding against known threats that target mobile users.Aalto also recommended the adoption of human risk management (HRM) platforms to tackle the growing sophistication of mobile phishing attacks.When a new attack is reported by an employee, the HRM platform learns to automatically find future similar attacks, he said. By integrating HRM, organizations can create a more resilient security culture where users become active defenders against mobile phishing and smishing attacks.John P. Mello Jr. has been an ECT News Network reporter since 2003. His areas of focus include cybersecurity, IT issues, privacy, e-commerce, social media, artificial intelligence, big data and consumer electronics. He has written and edited for numerous publications, including the Boston Business Journal, the Boston Phoenix, Megapixel.Net and Government Security News. Email John.Leave a CommentClick here to cancel reply. Please sign in to post or reply to a comment. New users create a free account.Related StoriesMore by John P. Mello Jr.view allMore in Malware

Well, its that time of year again. Like you, Im working through the gift-giving part of the holidays. I used to send out Amazon gift cards until one was stolen. I didnt get sympathy or a refund from Amazon, so Ive decided to steer clear of store gift cards altogether. So, Im back to sending people things I think they might want, and this week, Ill share my list of tech gadgets that make great gifts.Ill close with my last Product of the Week for 2024, a new off-road electric motorcycle from Dust Moto due out next year that is being built almost in my backyard.Dyson Supersonic Hair DryerDo you have a special lady in your life? Wife, sister, mother, daughter or girlfriend? Well, the best, but far from the cheapest, hair dryer Ive found is the Dyson Supersonic. Its normally priced around $430, but I found it on sale for $329. I got one for my wife, and she loved it, so I got one for my sister this year, but dont tell her!This hair dryer is relatively small, which makes it easy to pack. It comes up to speed quickly and holds up well. We havent had any problems with ours so far.The Supersonic uses Dysons unique design, which pulls the air from low in the handle, so it is unlikely to suck up your hair, and it has adjustments for every hair type, making it extremely flexible. It does come with a host of attachments, as is typical for anything Dyson-made. Dont ask me to explain all the features because I dont use them myself.This is my gift idea for someone you care about because it is well-made and expensive. Its unlikely theyd buy it for themselves, and they will likely think fondly of you when they dry their hair.Nixplay Digital Touchscreen Picture FrameFor the older folks in your life parents, grandparents, uncles, or aunts who might not be great with technology but who love family pictures, consider a digital picture frame you can preload with family pictures. When connected to the web, like the Nixplay digital touchscreen picture frame, you can update the picture playlist from the comfort of your couch once the device is set up.Yes, youll have to make sure the recipients Wi-Fi is working, which is a good reason to visit rather than just sending the thing out. At 10.1 inches and for around $140 (the 15-inch is on sale for $244 right now), it wont be too big for a bedside table, and it works with both iOS and Android phones.Although they say a grandma could upload pictures to the frame, its better if you manage it yourself. Regularly updating the pictures turns the frame into an ongoing surprise and a thoughtful reminder that youre thinking of them. Parents often struggle to feel connected after their kids move out, especially when those kids have their own families. This gift can help bridge that gap, serving as a simple but meaningful way to show you care.70mai Dash Cam OmniI was in a terrible car accident last year where an airbag knocked me out and broke my back. Because I was hit so hard, I have little memory of the accident, but my 70mai Dash Cam Omni caught the entire event, so I was able to go back and learn from it.What makes this dash cam different is that it has a head like R2D2 that swivels, so you dont have to have a rear-view camera. It will follow the action as it moves from side to side, capturing the entire event. It will also record people who mess with your car while it is parked. While it isnt as good as what Teslas typically ship with, for those of us who dont drive a Tesla, this is a great way to record your drive.Image Credit: 70maiIt can also get you out of bogus tickets. I got one of those a few years back where the officer said I was doing 90 on an open road. I wasnt, and I was in heavy traffic. It was my word against his, and he won. If Id had the camera back then, it would have paid for itself with that one ticket.This dash cam can also reinforce the need to drive more safely, given the record you are creating can be used against you. If you have kids who borrow your car, you might want to consider this to keep them from doing stupid things. At $200, its one of the more reasonable dash cams out there.Oh, and there are a lot of insurance scammers out there who will back into your car and scream that you rear-ended them or throw themselves in front of your vehicle, claiming you didnt yield. This camera can help you get out of those situations as well.VolteX Heated ScarfImage Credit: VolteXLiving in Bend, Oregon, where winters can be harsh, Ive come to appreciate heated gear. The VolteX Heated Scarf is one of the easiest self-heated items in the market.At under $17, this is a handy gift for those on a budget. You have to charge it up, but it heats almost instantly once turned on and has three heat settings (just like my heated car seats).The scarf is fluffy, so it feels really good on your neck. I bought one for my wife this year because she hates the cold. She can leave it in the car plugged into the cars electric system, so its always ready for the cold when a little instant warmth is appreciated.It is very portable, so you can travel with it, though since it has a battery, youll need to carry it onboard and not leave it in your luggage. It comes in brown, black, gray, or white. I ended up getting two in different colors since Im going to want to wear one as well.Ray-Ban Meta Smart GlassesThings are getting a bit crazy, given all of the political tension in the air. Ive been in several situations where I wanted to record what was happening without experiencing the anger that usually comes when you use your smartphone to capture someone breaking the law or behaving badly. In addition, using an action camera to record videos often doesnt provide the same view you have because the camera is located somewhere other than your face.Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses have a great camera in them. They can also replace your earbuds if you like to walk and listen to music or audiobooks or have your messages read to you while you are doing something else like running. The glasses come in a variety of styles and will take prescription lenses.Ray-Ban | Meta Smart Glasses (Video Credit: Meta)The camera is well hidden, so you dont have the concerns that the old Google Glass headset had. While the base prices currently range from $299 to $379, these glasses could be just what your loved one needs to capture that fleeting moment when something truly good or terribly bad is happening and you want to create a permanent record.Wrapping UpI hope this list helps you with your holiday shopping choices. Putting it together helped me make some of my own this year. I hope you have a marvelous holiday season!Hightail All-Electric Dirt Bike by Dust MotoHightail all-electric dirt bike (Image Credit: Dust Moto)While I dont ride much anymore, I used to own a Suzuki 125 and a Yamaha 175. The 125 was my school motorcycle, and the 175 was offroad. The problem with gas bikes when you are riding in the wilderness is that they make a lot of noise, and they need RPMs for torque. This means you miss a lot of the natural sounds, and when you get into trouble, like on a steep hill, you can end up spinning your wheel while trying to build enough torque to climb it.At an estimated $10,950 and with a release date of late 2025, the Dust Motos Hightail all-electric dirt bike is simply awesome. While not street legal, at least not yet, it is a monster of an alternative when it comes to riding off-road. It has an extremely clean design, and it was created by guys who also enjoy riding outdoors we have a lot of that here in Oregon. Their experience shows in the design and execution of this bike.With 42 HP and 660 Nm of torque, it will run for up to two hours on a charge. Plus, it has a replaceable battery, so you could carry a spare. It was created with support from Bloom, a company specializing in electric motorcycles, so even though this is Dust Motos first bike, it isnt Blooms first, so you can be confident this bike will do all it claims and more.Designed within walking distance of me, this would be on my Christmas shortlist for 2025 if I were still riding. As a result, the Hightail all-electric dirt bike by Dust Moto is my last Product of the Week for 2024, even though it wont be on my Christmas list until 2025, when this bike will be available.

AI-driven systems have become prime targets for sophisticated cyberattacks, exposing critical vulnerabilities across industries. As organizations increasingly embed AI and machine learning (ML) into their operations, the stakes for securing these systems have never been higher. From data poisoning to adversarial attacks that can mislead AI decision-making, the challenge extends across the entire AI/ML lifecycle.In response to these threats, a new discipline, machine learning security operations (MLSecOps), has emerged to provide a foundation for robust AI security. Lets explore five foundational categories within MLSecOps.1. AI Software Supply Chain VulnerabilitiesAI systems rely on a vast ecosystem of commercial and open-source tools, data, and ML components, often sourced from multiple vendors and developers. If not properly secured, each element within the AI software supply chain, whether its datasets, pre-trained models, or development tools, can be exploited by malicious actors.The SolarWinds hack, which compromised multiple government and corporate networks, is a well-known example. Attackers infiltrated the software supply chain, embedding malicious code into widely used IT management software. Similarly, in the AI/ML context, an attacker could inject corrupted data or tampered components into the supply chain, potentially compromising the entire model or system.To mitigate these risks, MLSecOps emphasizes thorough vetting and continuous monitoring of the AI supply chain. This approach includes verifying the origin and integrity of ML assets, especially third-party components, and implementing security controls at every phase of the AI lifecycle to ensure no vulnerabilities are introduced into the environment.2. Model ProvenanceIn the world of AI/ML, models are often shared and reused across different teams and organizations, making model provenance how an ML model was developed, the data it used, and how it evolved a key concern. Understanding model provenance helps track changes to the model, identify potential security risks, monitor access, and ensure that the model performs as expected.Open-source models from platforms like Hugging Face or Model Garden are widely used due to their accessibility and collaborative benefits. However, open-source models also introduce risks, as they may contain vulnerabilities that bad actors can exploit once they are introduced to a users ML environment. MLSecOps best practices call for maintaining a detailed history of each models origin and lineage, including an AI-Bill of Materials, or AI-BOM, to safeguard against these risks.By implementing tools and practices for tracking model provenance, organizations can better understand their models integrity and performance and guard against malicious manipulation or unauthorized changes, including but not limited to insider threats.3. Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC)Strong GRC measures are essential for ensuring responsible and ethical AI development and use. GRC frameworks provide oversight and accountability, guiding the development of fair, transparent, and accountable AI-powered technologies.The AI-BOM is a key artifact for GRC. It is essentially a comprehensive inventory of an AI systems components, including ML pipeline details, model and data dependencies, license risks, training data and its origins, and known or unknown vulnerabilities. This level of insight is crucial because one cannot secure what one does not know exists.An AI-BOM provides the visibility needed to safeguard AI systems from supply chain vulnerabilities, model exploitation, and more. This MLSecOps-supported approach offers several key advantages, like enhanced visibility, proactive risk mitigation, regulatory compliance, and improved security operations.In addition to maintaining transparency through AI-BOMs, MLSecOps best practices should include regular audits to evaluate the fairness and bias of models used in high-risk decision-making systems. This proactive approach helps organizations comply with evolving regulatory requirements and build public trust in their AI technologies.4. Trusted AIAIs growing influence on decision-making processes makes trustworthiness a key consideration in the development of machine learning systems. In the context of MLSecOps, trusted AI represents a critical category focused on ensuring the integrity, security, and ethical considerations of AI/ML throughout its lifecycle.Trusted AI emphasizes the importance of transparency and explainability in AI/ML, aiming to create systems that are understandable to users and stakeholders. By prioritizing fairness and striving to mitigate bias, trusted AI complements broader practices within the MLSecOps framework. The concept of trusted AI also supports the MLSecOps framework by advocating for continuous monitoring of AI systems. Ongoing assessments are necessary to maintain fairness, accuracy, and vigilance against security threats, ensuring that models remain resilient. Together, these priorities foster a trustworthy, equitable, and secure AI environment.5. Adversarial Machine LearningWithin the MLSecOps framework, adversarial machine learning (AdvML) is a crucial category for those building ML models. It focuses on identifying and mitigating risks associated with adversarial attacks.These attacks manipulate input data to deceive models, potentially leading to incorrect predictions or unexpected behavior that can compromise the effectiveness of AI applications. For example, subtle changes to an image fed into a facial recognition system could cause the model to misidentify the individual.By incorporating AdvML strategies during the development process, builders can enhance their security measures to protect against these vulnerabilities, ensuring their models remain resilient and accurate under various conditions.AdvML emphasizes the need for continuous monitoring and evaluation of AI systems throughout their lifecycle. Developers should implement regular assessments, including adversarial training and stress testing, to identify potential weaknesses in their models before they can be exploited.By prioritizing AdvML practices, ML practitioners can proactively safeguard their technologies and reduce the risk of operational failures.ConclusionAdvML, alongside the other categories, demonstrates the critical role of MLSecOps in addressing AI security challenges. Together, these five categories highlight the importance of leveraging MLSecOps as a comprehensive framework to protect AI/ML systems against emerging and existing threats. By embedding security into every phase of the AI/ML lifecycle, organizations can ensure that their models are high-performing, secure, and resilient.

As a longtime user of the original Sonos Arc, I approached the new Sonos Arc Ultra with excitement and skepticism.The original Arc has been a staple in my home entertainment setup. It delivers impressive Dolby Atmos sound and effortlessly integrates with the Sonos ecosystem.With the Arc Ultra promising upgrades in sound quality, design, and connectivity, I was eager to see if it could live up to the hype and justify its higher price tag.After spending time with the Ultra, its clear that Sonos hasnt just refined its flagship soundbar; theyve reimagined what a standalone audio system can offer. But is it enough to tempt existing Arc users like me to take the leap? Lets dive in.The Sonos Arc Ultra, released on Oct. 29, is Sonos latest flagship soundbar. It is priced at $999 and available in black or white.This new release marks a slight price increase over its predecessor, the original Arc, which is discontinued and now being sold at discounted rates as retailers clear remaining stock.The Arc Ultra enters a competitive market, facing rivals like the Sony Bravia Theatre Bar 9 and the Samsung HW-Q990D. Both offer compelling features and, at times, significant discounts.Design and BuildVisually, the Arc Ultra closely resembles the original Arc, maintaining Sonos minimalist aesthetic with a perforated grille encompassing most of the chassis. However, subtle changes include a ledge at the back housing touch controls play/pause, skip, volume slider, and a voice control button relocated from the main grille.The soundbars dimensions have been adjusted ever so slightly: its wider at 118cm (up from 114cm) but shorter in height at 7.5cm (down from 8.7cm), reducing the likelihood of obstructing the TV screen when placed in front. Weighing approximately 350g less than its predecessor, the Arc Ultra is also more wall-mount friendly.The design requires an open placement, as positioning it in a nook or under a shelf can impede the upward-firing drivers essential for optimal sound dispersion.Features and ConnectivityThe Arc Ultra boasts a 9.1.4-channel configuration, a significant upgrade from the original Arcs 5.0.2 setup. It incorporates 14 custom-engineered drivers powered by 15 Class D amplifiers, including seven tweeters, six midrange woofers, and a novel Sound Motion woofer.This innovative woofer utilizes four smaller, lightweight motors to move the cone, enabling greater air displacement and, according to Sonos, delivering up to twice the bass of the original Arc. The dual-cone design also aims to minimize mechanical vibrations, contributing to a more balanced sound profile.Despite these advancements, the Arc Ultra lacks support for DTS audio formats, focusing solely on Dolby Atmos for spatial audio. Connectivity options remain limited, with a single HDMI eARC port and no dedicated HDMI inputs, necessitating all external sources being connected through the TV. This setup may pose challenges for users with multiple high-spec gaming devices and limited HDMI 2.1 ports on their TVs.Sonos Arc Ultra home theater soundbar: front view (pictured top) and back viewOn the upside, the Arc Ultra introduces Bluetooth connectivity (a first for Sonos soundbars) and expands Sonos excellent Trueplay calibration support to Android devices, enhancing user accessibility.PerformanceIn terms of audio performance, the Arc Ultra delivers a clean, precise, and spacious soundstage with impressive three-dimensionality. The enhanced bass is deep and expressive, providing a solid foundation without overwhelming the overall sound profile.Dialogue clarity has improved, thanks to the new front-firing speaker array dedicated to the center channel, ensuring crisp and intelligible speech reproduction. The soundbar excels in detail retrieval, capturing subtle nuances across various content types.However, the absence of HDMI passthrough and DTS support may be limiting for some users. Additionally, while the Sonos app offers robust control and customization options, some users have reported occasional issues that could affect the overall user experience.How Arc Ultra Stacks Up Against RivalsCompared to competitors like the Sony Bravia Theatre Bar 9 and the Samsung HW-Q990D, the Arc Ultra holds its ground in terms of sound quality and design.Though officially priced higher, the Sony Bravia Theatre Bar 9 often sees discounts that bring it closer to the Arc Ultras price point. The Bravia Theatre Bar 9 boasts a comprehensive feature set, including HDMI passthrough and support for both Dolby Atmos and DTS:X formats, offering greater flexibility for users with diverse content sources. While more expensive, the Samsung HW-Q990D includes a wireless subwoofer and surround speakers, delivering a more immersive surround sound experience out of the box. Its connectivity options are more extensive, featuring multiple HDMI inputs and support for various audio formats, making it a versatile choice for users seeking a comprehensive home theater setup.Is Arc Ultra Worth the Upgrade?To be sure, Sonos has long faced criticism for its app, which, while offering a sleek design and robust control options, has been plagued by occasional connectivity issues and limited flexibility.Users often report frustrations with delayed updates, difficulty adding new devices, and problems syncing across the ecosystem. These woes are especially frustrating given the premium price of Sonos products, which sets high expectations for seamless integration.Although recent updates have aimed to address some of these issues, the app experience still leaves room for improvement, particularly as competitors continue to refine their platforms. While I have suffered through some of these issues myself (particularly with Sonos terrific over-the-ears Ace headphones), the app has thankfully matured to the point that it didnt inhibit setup.Still, from a pure hardware standpoint, the Sonos Arc Ultra represents a significant advancement over its predecessor, offering enhanced bass performance, improved dialogue clarity, and a more immersive soundstage.Its sleek design and expanded connectivity options, including Bluetooth and broader Trueplay support, make it a compelling choice for users seeking a high-quality, all-in-one soundbar solution. However, the lack of HDMI passthrough and DTS support may be a consideration for potential buyers.Overall, the Arc Ultra is a superb soundbar that elevates the home audio experience, making it a worthy contender in the premium soundbar market.The Arc Ultra images featured in this article are credited to Sonos.

Aptera To Showcase Solar EV at CES 2025By John P. Mello Jr.December 3, 2024 5:00 AM PTImage Credit: Aptera Motors ADVERTISEMENTConnect with IT purchasing decision-makersMaximize your reach with TechNewsWorld's B2B marketing solutions. We deliver the highest-quality leads to streamline your sales journey. Fill your pipeline and elevate your revenue using our proven lead-generation strategies. Learn more. A near-production model of a solar-powered car will be on display at CES 2025.Aptera Motors has announced that a production intent version of its eponymously named solar-powered vehicle will be displayed at the mammoth consumer electronics show, which will be held January 7-10 in Las Vegas.The Aptera offers up to 40 miles of solar-powered driving per day, a three-wheel futuristic design, unparalleled energy efficiency, and the option to plug in for 400 miles on a single charge in under an hour, according to the company.Announcement of a production-intent model means Aptera has a vehicle that should comply with regulatory requirements and should be at a level where the design is viable for manufacturing, hitting performance, safety, and manufacturing requirements, Rob Enderle, president and principal analyst at the Enderle Group, an advisory services firm, in Bend, Ore., told TechNewsWorld.Aptera is being watched with a great deal of interest by many in the automotive industry, added Edward Sanchez, a senior analyst in the automotive practice at TechInsights, a global technology intelligence company.It is a radical departure from most mainstream cars, he told TechNewsWorld. Theres a big question of demand and mainstream appeal for such an unconventional design.The company is also using some manufacturing techniques that, up to this point, have been mainly used in the supercar and motorsports industries, he continued.The company is targeting a competitive price point for its vehicle, so it will be interesting to see how these specialized techniques and materials will scale for whats intended to be a quasi-mass-market vehicle from a volume standpoint and if the company can maintain competitive operating margins over the longer term.Demo Under ScrutinyMark N. Vena, president and principal analyst at SmartTech Research, a consulting and research firm in Las Vegas, maintained that the scrutiny around Apteras demo will be incredibly high. The introduction of a production-intent vehicle signals that Aptera is transitioning from the prototype phase to a model ready for mass manufacturing, a critical milestone in its development, he told TechNewsWorld.This step demonstrates the companys confidence in the design, functionality, and manufacturability of the vehicle, aligning with industry standards and regulatory requirements, he continued. It also helps build consumer and investor trust by showcasing a tangible product that is nearing market readiness, setting the stage for final testing, production scaling, and eventual delivery. Im not optimistic.However, that dearth of optimism doesnt seem to be shared by the early adopters who have forked over US$1.7 billion to pre-order 50,000 units of the vehicle. CES is the perfect stage for unveiling the future of sustainable transportation, Aptera Co-CEO Chris Anthony said in a statement.Our production-intent vehicle is not only a testament to years of innovation and engineering but also a tangible solution to reducing carbon emissions and redefining how we think about energy-efficient mobility. Were excited to show the world that Aptera is ready to hit the road and deliver a cleaner, more sustainable future.To secure that future, though, will require surmounting some significant challenges. Generally, there just isnt enough surface area on a car for the current solar panel technology to do more than just run HVAC to keep the car cool, Enderle explained. Recharging the massive batteries in most EVs would take days to weeks to recharge using panels on a car.Power ProblemBen Zientara, a solar policy and industry expert at SolarReviews, a reviews and advice website, asserted that there is no way to power the kind of vehicle people want to drive with solar cells embedded in a cars surface.Even the most efficient solar cells can provide only a few miles of additional range per day, even if parked in the sunniest spot in the sunniest state, he told TechNewsWorld. The average electric vehicle can get about 3.5 miles of range with one kilowatt-hour of electricity. A car with solar cells can generate maybe three to four kWh per day, which is enough to drive 10 to 14 miles per day on just solar power.He pointed out that past attempts at solar-powered EVs by Sono Sion and Lightyear One both had solar cells that peaked at around 1.2 kilowatts of power under full sun. This means that the car would need to be perfectly clean and parked in the ideal location on a very sunny day for several hours to get the maximum 14 miles per day range, he said.I dont see a huge opportunity unless we see meaningful progress with the technology and the cost that would enable them to compete with existing vehicles today, including electric vehicles and those with internal combustion engines, added Seth Goldstein, an equity strategist and chair of the electric vehicle committee at Chicago-based Morningstar Research Services.He explained that Aptera is targeting 40 miles for an all-solar range, after which the vehicle becomes an electric car with a battery. I just dont see consumers really being willing to pay extra for 40 miles of solar-powered driving.Vagaries of Solar PowerEven if the surface-to-power problem is addressed, there are other vagaries of solar power. Cars are subject to weather conditions, falling leaves, bird poop, and other debris that cause loss of power output from solar cells, Zientara noted.He added that it is nearly impossible to perfectly orient the solar cells in a cars surface to the sun. To get the most from solar cells, they must be angled exactly perpendicular to incoming sunlight, he explained. A car has many, many different surfaces, all of which are angled in different directions. If you maximize the orientation of one surface, the others are not pointed directly at the sun. Then theres the sun moving in the sky problem. Even if you can point one or more of a vehicles faces directly at the sun, they wont stay that way for very long, Zientara noted. And the sun also changes throughout the year, shining down more directly on the northern hemisphere in the summer and much less directly in the winter. So solar cells in a cars surface will generate more energy during the summer and less during the winter, regardless of weather.Solar-powered vehicles may find a place in niche markets. Solar-powered vehicles are potentially sufficient for use cases where extended travel in sunny regions can maximize energy generation, such as rural or remote areas with limited access to charging infrastructure, Vena said. They are well-suited for low-speed, short-distance transportation, like delivery services, campus shuttles, or recreational vehicles, where energy demand is lower.Solar-powered vehicles can also serve as backup power sources or sustainable alternatives for off-grid living, contributing to energy independence and reduced carbon footprints, he added.They wont be viable for most people, Enderle acknowledged, but for those that can, or need to use them for living off the grid or because they have no viable charging alternatives, they could be a godsend.John P. Mello Jr. has been an ECT News Network reporter since 2003. His areas of focus include cybersecurity, IT issues, privacy, e-commerce, social media, artificial intelligence, big data and consumer electronics. He has written and edited for numerous publications, including the Boston Business Journal, the Boston Phoenix, Megapixel.Net and Government Security News. Email John.Leave a CommentClick here to cancel reply. Please sign in to post or reply to a comment. New users create a free account.Related StoriesMore by John P. Mello Jr.view allMore in Transportation

Schools and organizations that deploy vast numbers of computers have a much-needed computing edge against cybersecurity risks with enterprise-grade Chromebooks.Consumer-grade Chromebooks come with what Google calls defense in depth, which provides multiple layers of protection. If attackers succeed in bypassing one layer, others remain in effect. The networked Chromebooks deployed in school systems, medical facilities, and government offices take multi-layer security and boost it with additional features. One of them is Zero Trust security, a framework that verifies every user and device.All Chromebook devices run ChromeOS, an embedded operating system built around Googles Chrome web browser. They run the same Google-certified operating image system. This built-in heightened security and automatic updates are designed for Zero Trust security and require no monitoring by users.Endpoint resilience and data protection are two critical components of Zero Trust, augmented by robust data loss prevention (DLP) and granular access controls. Running enterprise-level Chromebooks on an organizations network is easily maintained by the IT system administrator through a console inaccessible to users.The approach works whether students or employees use the Chromebook devices internally or remotely, ensuring that security shields are always engaged. For example, users can access their devices using QR codes and picture-based login options.Schools have become frequent targets for cyberattacks like ransomware, phishing, and malware, said Jeremy Burnett, vice president of technology at CTL, during a recent seminar where his company presented on the updated security features built into both consumer and enterprise Chromebooks.CTL is a Chromebook manufacturer and ChromeOS OEM service provider that partners with Google to deliver tailored solutions for educators, learners, and businesses. These solutions address the growing threats of cyberattacks faced by schools and organizations.ChromeOS Foundational SecurityAccording to Andrew Luong, partner success engineer for Google and ChromeOS, the goal is to have strong authentication with second factors or security keys. Despite the other login options, students and others less familiar with technology prefer passwords.Making users change passwords frequently is complex because every app you use today asks for longer and more complex passwords. Its become quite a hassle, he told the virtual seminar audience.Googles password manager has been super helpful in generating stronger passwords because the more you have to change them, the less likely you will remember them. Googles various logon tools help users handle better passwords.Another major challenge is device health, he added. Devices must be updated regularly with the latest security patches. Using ChromeOS is where we really shine, noted Luong. ChromeOS devices update automatically, a key benefit and differentiator, with all running the same Google-certified operating image.However, he added that school IT teams must ensure that these devices are connected to get those updates and remain on the version you approve in compliance with your district or your school.Using the IT administration console makes it easy to keep them on a particular version of ChromeOS so that the students can take their tests or the teachers or staff can use their classroom tools.What we are doing in our console is having Google AI surface and show you, as you log into the Cloud Console, that devices are all up to date, he said.ChromeOS Security Behind the ScenesUpdates are installed in the background on the second copy of the OS. The process does not interfere with any users work. When all the updates are downloaded, a reboot button appears to load the new OS version.Chromebooks include Verified Boot, a trust connector technology that verifies the integrity of the operating system during startup and ensures the system has not been tampered with. If tampering or corruption is detected, the system automatically attempts to repair itself, often by restoring the OS to its original state. This ensures that the operating system remains secure and intact, addressing any failures in its integrity.Enterprise Chromebooks now have context-aware signals to check the integrity of the running ChromeOS version before it allows the devices to connect to school applications. That is an innovation in the zero-trust architecture framework, explained Luong.Another recent security feature added to the IT management console is threat detection and response, which does not use any agents. The management license enables admins to configure and monitor information flowing from ChromeOS device security events into the security event notification system.So centralized reporting and insights make it easy to have that zero-trust framework and enhance your cybersecurity, he said. ChromeOS has built-in malware protection. No ransomware has ever been reported [on ChromeOS devices].These enhanced enterprise cybersecurity features are available through the admin console under a licensed plan from an authorized provider like CTL to enterprise-grade devices. Consumer-grade Chromebooks all have the other features mentioned regarding automatic updates and built-in malware and antivirus protection.Insider Risks in School CybersecurityLuong stressed an essential point about the rigorous cybersecurity protections inherent in all Chromebook devices. They cannot always survive careless employee actions.When it comes to phishing, about 90% of data breaches in K-12 schools result from a system employee who is clicking on a link and that is not a knock on school system employees, he said.If that clicking results in a ransomware attack, the fault is not with Chromebooks. Education institutions are among the most targeted sectors.That is where cybersecurity training comes into play. On average, U.S. schools and colleges lose about $500,000 a day to downtime during ransomware attacks. So, the stakes are high when something happens, Luong observed. CyberNut offers security awareness training. The companys platform is designed to be extremely gamified and engaging, based on micro training sessions with short, gamified experiences.The real objective is to allow schools to measure behavior change. Our success is not just based on checking a box for faculty staff after they watch a short video and take a quiz. We are laser-focused and deliver measurable behavior change through an ongoing, perpetual training experience, said Oliver Page, co-founder and CEO of CyberNut.He offers a free trial, allowing organizations to learn about cybersecurity training. That includes a free phishing assessment to see how a school district is positioned from a security posture perspective.The High Cost of Cyberattacks on SchoolsThe quality of phishing emails has become more sophisticated over the past 10 or 20 years, with ransomware attacks on K-12 schools have increasing substantially in the last year. According to Page, most of those attacks come through malicious email and phishing.That is scary because depending on how you calculate that number. If you are talking about schools that were targeted in some way and something happened, it is closer to 100% of schools receiving malicious emails that could lead to a ransomware attack every day. So, it is prevalent, said Page.Several factors put schools in the crosshairs so prominently. Among the primary causes is a lack of budget, which leads to a lack of staffing and expertise.That gets bad when we couple it with thousands of devices to manage and secure. We have tons of extremely valuable data, Page warned.The median ransomware payment last year was $6.5 million. In addition to that ransom, you are looking at additional millions in recovery costs.One of the realities of that is that nobody teaches students about cyber safety, he added. Parents spend an average of 46 minutes educating their children on cybersecurity in their entire lifetime.Couple that with the fact that the average child above the age of 13 spends seven hours a day online, it is easy to see where the disparity and the concern lies, he concluded.

Nvidia Reveals Swiss Army Knife of AI Audio Tools: FugattoBy John P. Mello Jr.November 26, 2024 5:00 AM PT ADVERTISEMENTEngage with IT decision makers and key influencers. TechNewsWorld's B2B marketing services deliver sales-ready leads that shorten your sales process. Fill your funnel and grow revenue with our lead gen expertise. Get Started Today. High-powered computer chip maker Nvidia on Monday unveiled a new AI model developed by its researchers that can generate or transform any mix of music, voices and sounds described with prompts using any combination of text and audio files.The new AI model called Fugatto for Foundational Generative Audio Transformer Opus can create a music snippet based on a text prompt, remove or add instruments from an existing song, change the accent or emotion in a voice, and even produce sounds never heard before.According to Nvidia, by supporting numerous audio generation and transformation tasks, Fugatto is the first foundational generative AI model that showcases emergent properties capabilities that arise from the interaction of its various trained abilities and the ability to combine free-form instructions.We wanted to create a model that understands and generates sound like humans do, Rafael Valle, a manager of applied audio research at Nvidia, said in a statement.Fugatto is our first step toward a future where unsupervised multitask learning in audio synthesis and transformation emerges from data and model scale, he added.Nvidia noted the model is capable of handling tasks it was not pretrained on, as well as generating sounds that change over time, such as the Doppler effect of thunder as a rainstorm passes through an area.The company added that unlike most models, which can only recreate the training data theyve been exposed to, Fugatto allows users to create soundscapes its never seen before, such as a thunderstorm easing into dawn with the sound of birds singing.Breakthrough AI Model for Audio TransformationNvidias introduction of Fugatto marks a significant advancement in AI-driven audio technology, observed Kaveh Vahdat, founder and president of RiseOpp, a national CMO services company based in San Francisco.Unlike existing models that specialize in specific tasks such as music composition, voice synthesis, or sound effect generation Fugatto offers a unified framework capable of handling a diverse array of audio-related functions, he told TechNewsWorld. This versatility positions it as a comprehensive tool for audio synthesis and transformation. Vahdat explained that Fugatto distinguishes itself through its ability to generate and transform audio based on both text instructions and optional audio inputs. This dual-input approach enables users to create complex audio outputs that seamlessly blend various elements, such as combining a saxophones melody with the timbre of a meowing cat, he said.Additionally, he continued, Fugattos capacity to interpolate between instructions allows for nuanced control over attributes like accent and emotion in voice synthesis, offering a level of customization not commonly found in current AI audio tools.Fugatto is an extraordinary step towards AI that can handle multiple modalities simultaneously, added Benjamin Lee, a professor of engineering at the University of Pennsylvania.Using both text and audio inputs together may produce far more efficient or effective models than using text alone, he told TechNewsWorld. The technology is interesting because, looking beyond text alone, it broadens the volumes of training data and the capabilities of generative AI models.Nvidia at Its BestMark N. Vena, president and principal analyst at SmartTech Research in Las Vegas, asserted that Fugatto represents Nvidia at its best.The technology introduces advanced capabilities in AI audio processing by enabling the transformation of existing audio into entirely new forms, he told TechNewsWorld. This includes converting a piano melody into a human vocal line or altering the accent and emotional tone of spoken words, offering unprecedented flexibility in audio manipulation.Unlike existing AI audio tools, Fugatto can generate novel sounds from text descriptions, such as making a trumpet sound like a barking dog, he said. These features provide creators in music, film, and gaming with innovative tools for sound design and audio editing.Fugatto deals with audio holistically spanning sound effects, music, voice, virtually any type of audio, including sounds that have not been heard before and precisely, added Ross Rubin, the principal analyst with Reticle Research, a consumer technology advisory firm in New York City.He cited the example of Suno, a service that uses AI to generate songs. They just released a new version that has improvements in how generated human voices sound and other things, but it doesnt allow the kinds of precise, creative changes that Fugatto allows, such as adding new instruments to a mix, changing moods from happy to sad, or moving a song from a minor key to a major key, he told TechNewsWorld.Its understanding of the world of audio and the flexibility that it offers goes beyond the mask-specific engines that weve seen for things like generating a human voice or generating a song, he said.Opens Door for CreativesVahdat pointed out that Fugatto can be useful in both advertising and language learning. Agencies can create customized audio content that aligns with brand identities, including voiceovers with specific accents or emotional tones, he noted.At the same time, in language learning, educational platforms will be able to develop personalized audio materials, such as dialogues in various accents or emotional contexts, to aid in language acquisition.Fugatto technology opens doors to a wide array of applications in creative industries, Vena maintained. Filmmakers and game developers can use it to create unique soundscapes, such as turning everyday sounds into fantastical or immersive effects, he said. It also holds potential for personalized audio experiences in virtual reality, assistive technologies, and education, tailoring sounds to specific emotional tones or user preferences. In music production, he added, it can transform instruments or vocal styles to explore innovative compositions.Further development may be needed to get better musical results, however. All these results are trivial, and some have been around for longer and better, observed Dennis Bathory-Kitsz, a musician and composer in Northfield Falls, Vt.The voice isolation was clumsy and unmusical, he told TechNewsWorld. The additional instruments were also trivial, and most of the transformations were colorless. The only advantage is that it requires no particular learning, so the development of musicality for the AI user will be minimal.It may usher in some new uses real musicians are wonderfully inventive already but unless the developers have better musical chops to begin with, the results will be dreary, he said. They will be musical slop to join the visual and verbal slop from AI.AGI Stand-InWith artificial general intelligence (AGI) still very much in the future, Fugatto may be a model for simulating AGI, which ultimately aims to replicate or surpass human cognitive abilities across a wide range of tasks.Fugatto is part of a solution that uses generative AI in a collaborative bundle with other AI tools to create an AGI-like solution, explained Rob Enderle, president and principal analyst at the Enderle Group, an advisory services firm in Bend, Ore.Until we get AGI working, he told TechNewsWorld, this approach will be the dominant way to create more complete AI projects with far higher quality and interest.John P. Mello Jr. has been an ECT News Network reporter since 2003. His areas of focus include cybersecurity, IT issues, privacy, e-commerce, social media, artificial intelligence, big data and consumer electronics. He has written and edited for numerous publications, including the Boston Business Journal, the Boston Phoenix, Megapixel.Net and Government Security News. Email John.Leave a CommentClick here to cancel reply. Please sign in to post or reply to a comment. New users create a free account.Related StoriesMore by John P. Mello Jr.view allMore in Audio/Video

Nvidia has faced scrutiny this month because some servers with a whopping 72 Blackwell processors were overheating. The issue arose because some initial OEM deployments were not properly water-cooled, which Lenovo aggressively identified and mitigated with its Neptune warm water-cooling solutions.As AI advances, well need more highly dense, incredibly powerful AI processors, which suggests that air cooling in server rooms may become obsolete.Lets talk about Blackwell, water cooling, and why Lenovos Neptune solution stands out at the moment. Well close with my Product of the Week: Microsofts Windows 365 Link, which could be the missing link between PCs and terminals that could forever change desktop computing.BlackwellBlackwell is Nvidias premier, AI-focused GPU. When it was announced, it was so far over what most would have thought practical that it almost seemed more like a pipe dream than a solution. But it works, and there is nothing close to its class right now. However, it is massively dense in terms of technology and generates a lot of heat.Some argue it is a potential ecological disaster. Dont get me wrong, it does pull a lot of power and generate a tremendous amount of heat. But its performance is so high compared to the kind of load that youd typically get with more conventional parts that it is relatively economical to run.Its like comparing a semi-truck with three trailers to a U-Haul van. Yes, the semi will get comparatively crappy gas mileage, but it will also hold more cargo than 10 U-Haul vans and use a lot less gas than those 10 vans, making it more ecologically friendly. The same is true of Blackwell. It is so far beyond its competition in terms of performance that its relatively high energy use is below what otherwise would be required for a competitive AI server.But Blackwell chips do run hot, and most servers today are air-cooled. So, it shouldnt be surprising that some Blackwell servers were configured with air cooling and those with 72 or more Blackwell processors on a rack overheated. While 72 Blackwells in a rack is unusual today, as AI advances, it will become more common, given Nvidia is currently the king of AI.You can only go so far with air-cooled technology in terms of performance before you have to move to liquid cooling. While Nvidia did respond to this issue with a water-cooled rack specification that Dell is now using, Lenovo was way ahead of the curve with its Neptune water-cooling solution.Lenovo NeptuneLenovo was the first to realize this, mainly because it is currently the market leader in its class in terms of water cooling a technology initially acquired from IBM, which has been doing water cooling for decades.What is important with water cooling isnt just the technology but the knowledge of how to deploy it safely. Mixing water and high-amperage electronics can be a disaster if you dont know what youre doing. As a result of the IBM server acquisition, Lenovo has decades of water cooling experience that it calls Neptune.Given Nvidia has specified a water-cooled rack, what makes Neptune better? The answer is experience. Most that will use the Nvidia-specified solution, including Nvidia, dont often deploy water-cooled solutions. As a result, particularly with these high-end Blackwell implementations, theyll essentially be learning on the job.It can be really dangerous when you mix water with high-amperage electronics. Water and electricity dont mix. Not only can a leak fry an expensive part or even an entire rack, but if a person is present, it can fry them, too, if the breakers dont set in. In a raised-floor environment, unless it has been designed with leaks in mind, terrible things can happen. I observed this myself decades ago when I was at IBM, and it turned out they hadnt stress-tested the water-cooling system for our massive (for the time) data center. The site lost a transformer that shut off the water-cooling system, which hadnt been stress-tested for a sudden stop. The pipes burst, and the data center became a dangerous swimming pool. Most of the hardware, costing hundreds of millions of dollars, was lost, and the building was flooded, doing additional damage.Through experiences like this, IBM became the leading OEM for safe water cooling, and Lenovo acquired that knowledge and experience when it bought the IBM x86 server group. Now, Lenovo, along with IBM, knows how to do water cooling better than most, which means that you can rest assured that a Lenovo Blackwell server wont overheat or suddenly begin to leak.Plus, Lenovos expertise is in warm water cooling, a far safer and far less expensive way to cool servers than cold water cooling, which requires huge, inefficient evaporators or chillers.Implementing this technology is no trivial task. Unlike automobiles or PCs that are water-cooled, servers have to have hot swapping capabilities, which means you need exceptional and highly tested drip-free connections, aggressive alerting, preventive maintenance schedules based on past knowledge of components, and technicians experienced with working with this level of water-cooling tech.Wrapping Up: A Future of Warm-Water-Cooled Data CentersBlackwell is only the first of these incredibly powerful processors to hit the market because as AI pushes the envelope, Nvidias competitors will also have to push into something similar, suggesting all servers may eventually need to be warm water cooled.As warm-water cooling moves into the market more aggressively, these data centers will quiet down, making them far more pleasant places to work. That will make many of us who have to work in them very happy.Windows 365 LinkImage Credit: MicrosoftEver since we replaced terminals with PCs, IT has wanted the terminal experience back. Terminals were like pre-smart TVs in that you didnt have to do patches or OS upgrades or deal with the blue screen of death. If the thing broke, it was pretty easy to fix or was relatively inexpensive to replace. From an IT perspective, terminals were a ton better than PCs.But on the PC side, terminals sucked. You couldnt run what you wanted to run without getting IT support, and it could take months for IT to respond to a request.Terminals were connected to aging mainframes that couldnt run modern applications at the time (they can now). New applications were usually custom-built, but a gap in communication between users and IT frequently led to problems. Users struggled to articulate their needs, and IT often failed to probe for better specifications, resulting in frequently unusable applications.Well at Microsoft Ignite last week, Microsoft announced the Windows 365 Link which may be the closest thing to a perfect wired (theres no laptop solution yet) terminal with PC-like features and performance.While we call the class a thin client, Microsoft calls this a Cloud PC. At $349 and the size of a micro-PC, it appears to have the closest weve seen in terms of a near-perfect PC/terminal blend.Windows 365 Link will be more reliable, cheaper, secure, and far smaller than most desktop PCs, making it very attractive for IT. At the same time, it connects to a Cloud PC instance, providing the user with a very PC-like experience.It only targets enterprise accounts right now, mainly because they have the greatest need and the necessary infrastructure. I see this moving to markets like travel, education, government, manufacturing, and other vertical markets with similar needs. Although it doesnt yet address mobile users, fully deployed 5G and the coming 6G specification should allow future mobile implementations.Given Microsoft was one of the companies that launched the PC and made terminals obsolete, it seems ironic and poetic that Microsoft takes the lead in making them obsolete, eventually. Well see if that happens. For now, the Windows 365 Link is my Product of the Week.

This weeks Microsoft Ignite 2024 event in Chicago showcased Microsoft's vision and strategies for corporate and enterprise customers, highlighting AI's potential to transform operations. The post Microsoft Ignite 2024: Enterprise Productivity Is the Easiest AI Sell appeared first on TechNewsWorld.

Outdated Risk Management Frameworks Face Growing CriticismBy John P. Mello Jr.November 19, 2024 5:00 AM PT ADVERTISEMENTYour Salesforce Data, Your ResponsibilityLearn best practices to effortlessly protect your Salesforce Data with Rubrik. Find Out How Risk management in many organizations is mired in a framework that cant keep pace with the challenges that most enterprise risk teams face. It needs to be modernized.Thats the verdict that senior analysts Cody Scott and Alla Valente handed down in a recent Forrester Research blog thats critical of the Three Lines of Defense (3LOD) approach, which is widely used to assess organizational risk.Conventional means of managing risk havent kept pace with the demand, velocity, or pressure that most enterprise risk teams face, the analysts wrote.Worse yet, they continued, many governance, risk, and compliance programs hyperfocus on compliance, completely ignore risk, and scramble to stand up governance for every new emerging risk, technology, or threat. The 3LOD model is not built to solve this. They explained that 3LOD was developed as a corporate governance framework to implement segregation of duties requirements under the 2002 Sarbanes-Oxley Act (SOX). Then, in 2013, the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) promoted it as a solution to enhance risk management. But as anyone who has tried to implement it as a foundation for enterprise risk management will tell you, the 3LOD is not a model for managing risk, the analysts wrote.Rigid FrameworkThe framework is designed to meet the compliance requirements set by SOX, not deal with business risks, noted Ian Amit, founder and CEO of Gomboc, a provider of automated cloud infrastructure security solutions in New York City.Its not adaptive enough to work for most modern organizations, where reporting lines and hierarchy arent as rigid as they used to be in 2000, he told TechNewsWorld.The 3LOD framework is a fairly old approach that the financial sector used and likely still does, added Brian Betterton, practice director for risk and strategic services at GuidePoint Security, a cybersecurity services provider in Herndon, Va.3LOD is not what I would call a modern approach, but some like it as it creates separation and thus splits risk management across three functions, he told TechNewsWorld. To me, 3LOD is more of an audit approach than a risk one.He also pointed out that because of the audit nature of its controls, it has a point-in-time focus and not the continuous approach found in solutions focusing on business risk.Compliance Trumps RiskMany risk management programs are hyper-focused on compliance over actual risk for a number of reasons.Traditional risk management approaches tend to focus on compliance passing the audit and checking the boxes rather than actual business risk, Amit said. These approaches are often taken by organizations with leadership more concerned with preserving the current status quo than driving revenues or innovation.Often risk management programs focus more on compliance because its tangible and tied to clear goals, added Nicole Sundin, CPO of Axio, a cyber risk management company in New York City.Compliance work is usually linked to a business objective or external requirement, she told TechNewsWorld. In this context, compliance becomes a point-in-time effort aimed at meeting a specific business need, rather than an ongoing process of identifying and mitigating evolving risks.In addition, most risk management programs are driven by compliance goals, added Chandrasekhar Bilugu, CTO of SureShield, a security, compliance, and integrity management software company, in Atlanta. Organizations seldom take up risk management as an independent process disconnected from compliance mandates, as it would lack the necessary executive sponsorship, he told TechNewsWorld. Heath Renfrow, CISO and co-founder of Fenix24, a disaster recovery and restoration company in Chattanooga, Tenn., asserted that compliance-driven risk management programs are nothing more than paper drills with no sound way of quantifying the risks for senior executives to make risk-based decisions. You cannot manage risks that you do not understand, he told TechNewsWorld.Betterton noted that in less mature organizations, risk management programs tend to focus on compliance over risk. Less mature organizations are viewing compliance as their main risk and, in turn, missing all of the risks they may have, he said.Meeting compliance requirements is also easier for many organizations than assessing security needs. Compliance means that you are complying with a rule or a regulation that must be followed. There are clear definitions of what must be followed, explained Ira Winkler, CISO at CYE, a cybersecurity optimization company in Tel Aviv, Israel.However, what it means to be secure varies greatly, he told TechNewsWorld. If you have no idea what security means for your organization, while you do have a clear definition of what it means to be compliant, you are obviously first going to achieve compliance because it is hard to be secure when you dont exactly understand what that means.Foundation of Modern Risk ManagementScott and Valente cited three pillars for a modern approach to risk management.The approach must be dynamic and able to deal with risk in three dimensions: systemic risk external to the organization and beyond its control; ecosystem risk external to the organization but within varying degrees of control, such as third-party and supply chain risk; and enterprise risks internal to the organization and directly controllable, such as cybersecurity and financial risk.Further, the approach must be continuous because risks and opportunities evolve over time. Point-in-time, static risk assessments dont reflect reality, the analysts explained. Instead, teams require a continuous process to identify risk context, assess it as plans and objectives develop, make decisions, and monitor the results. The approach must also recognize that cyber risk is business risk. The analysts noted that typically, the chief risk officer selects the risk management model, while the CISO needs to ensure that the model is functional for the organizations cybersecurity needs. Without working in lockstep, security, and risk pros are stuck living in fear from audit to audit while foreseeable, preventable risk events materialize repeatedly.The chief risk officer and chief information security officer need to be on the same page when implementing a risk framework because both are responsible for identifying and addressing different aspects of risk within the organization, Sunlin observed.The CRO typically focuses on overall business and operational risks, while the CISO focuses on cybersecurity risks. However, both roles have overlapping responsibilities when it comes to managing risk, and their teams possess crucial insights that must be shared to effectively address and mitigate risks.Collaboration between the CRO and CISO ensures a holistic approach to risk management, enabling the organization to proactively identify, assess, and resolve potential threats across all domains, she said. When their efforts are aligned, it fosters a unified, comprehensive risk strategy that reduces vulnerabilities and enhances the overall resilience of the business.Forresters ModelScott and Valente also touted Forresters continuous risk management model, which they hailed as a blueprint for holistic risk management.Forresters approach isnt completely new, Amit noted. It mimics how modern organizations manage risk, he said.The introduction of tools that allow an organization to get more frequent data points on its internal controls and processes, as well as external threats, allow for more granular risk management that is more continuous than periodical, he explained.He also pointed out that the audit and compliance requirements force organizations to implement more continuous evidence-gathering and controls, which allow them, in turn, to practice more pronounced risk management on an ongoing basis.Fundamentally, people need to understand what risk management and security are, Winkler advised. The definition of security is being free from risk, and you can never be free of all risk.Security professionals need to understand that their job is essentially risk management, which involves making the best decisions to optimize their spend compared to the amount of the potential loss, he continued. This requires good decision science and mathematical tools to help. This will drive their work from being an art to a science.John P. Mello Jr. has been an ECT News Network reporter since 2003. His areas of focus include cybersecurity, IT issues, privacy, e-commerce, social media, artificial intelligence, big data and consumer electronics. He has written and edited for numerous publications, including the Boston Business Journal, the Boston Phoenix, Megapixel.Net and Government Security News. Email John.Leave a CommentClick here to cancel reply. Please sign in to post or reply to a comment. New users create a free account.More by John P. Mello Jr.view allMore in Security

IBMs beta release of its Environmental Intelligence (EI) platform offers application developers and data scientists curated environmental insights powered by AI with access to open-source geospatial and satellite data.This cloud-based platform provides a variety of geospatial, weather, and climate APIs, enabling users to create applications that address sustainability, climate change, and regulatory needs.IBM aims for the software to help businesses manage financial risks associated with climate disruptions. Both public and private sectors face climate-related challenges, including operational disruptions, asset damage, and supply chain vulnerabilities. IBM Environmental Intelligence offers geospatial data, advanced models, and AI insights to support organizations in addressing these critical issues.Environmental Intelligence is a new product, but some of its remnants date back several years. We have a very wide IBM research community of sustainability and climate scientists who are investing and working with specific industry type problems, climate type problems that are really forward-thinking, David Blanch, director of product management, ESG, and Environmental Intelligence at IBM, told TechNewsWorld.Versatile API Suite Powers Environmental InsightsIBMs EI solution offers a suite of APIs to help developers and data scientists gather and analyze Earths surface data for predictive insights and proactive decision-making. It simplifies the process of working with public satellite data by processing, normalizing, and organizing it into geospatial layers, making it ready for analysis and visualization.Satellite imagery highlighting biomass data to support environmental monitoring and sustainability initiatives.The APIs and a Python software development kit (SDK) provide access to high-resolution imagery, global weather data, and other valuable datasets to gain insights for quicker action. The EI platform features a foundation model co-developed with NASA for pre-processing and cleansing geospatial data.Other key features include seamless access to environmental and geospatial datasets through easy-to-use APIs for real-time analysis. Geospatial-temporal querying uses an advanced insights engine to analyze geospatial and temporal data and improve application functionality.IBMs Environmental Intelligence platform features data layers, predictive models, and insights to support decision-making and sustainability efforts.On-demand historical weather data provides access to past weather data to inform predictive models and optimize operations across various sectors. Advanced data querying lets users execute complex queries on diverse environmental datasets at customizable spatial and temporal resolutions.APIs automate greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions calculations for the internal and supply chain emissions to track and manage carbon footprints.The beta platform is free. IBM will consider future pricing and packaging decisions pending market feedback.Market Trends Show New Uses for Climate DataIBM is targeting a specific audience of technical builders, developers, and data scientist communities because of observed trends in the market. According to Blanch, these targeted users are not necessarily all climate scientists or meteorologists who benefit from accessing the innovative data, putting it behind an API, and applying embeddable use cases across their existing applications.The trends involve how climate change is impacting business operations across various verticals. Research indicates that climate-related disasters are causing significant losses on a macro level. Some of the datasets within environmental intelligence fall into a couple of buckets. One dataset is open-source satellite imagery, offering high-resolution visuals captured by European satellites orbiting the globe every five days. This imagery supports a wide range of applications, from environmental monitoring to regulatory compliance.An organization could access that raw imagery on its own but would encounter a lot of challenge with pre-processing cloud removals, noted Blanch in a key benefit of using the EI platform instead.Another dataset includes meteorological data such as historical records, real-time updates, and short-term weather forecasts. Blanch noted that climate projections for more long-term needs involving climate planning should be added to those scenarios.Thinking in terms of specific business examples, how do you build more resiliency inside your organization regarding natural hazards like floods and wildfires? How do you handle disaster risk planning and risk assessments? How do you calculate your businesss carbon emissions?Visualizing wildfire risk across regions using IBMs Environmental Intelligence platform for disaster planning and resiliency.If you think about how companies are operationalizing sustainability, they have an industrial asset and a methane link to a carbon equivalent in todays workflow. A work order might be issued so that somebody can go perform some maintenance for these different operational groups who are not traditional sustainability-minded people, Blanch suggested.Sustainability Solutions for Diverse IndustriesAccording to Blanch, IBM wants to expand beyond traditional uses to benefit the potential applications in other industries. He referenced use cases already showing EI success in agriculture, such as crop monitoring, yield prediction, and precision farming.For example, easier access to satellite data is helping organizations comply with new environmental regulations from governments. The European Unions deforestation regulation is a case in point.It requires companies to review their supply chains and verify they are not working with suppliers who violate these regulatory requirements involving extensive land use changes.Another example involves how IBMs EI technology can impact animal growth and influence nutrition adjustments based on environmental conditions. Some groups developed a predictive modeling system using weather data to assess mycotoxin levels in their crops. They were able to create a forecasting model using environmental and weather data from the platform to improve their business operations.Temperature distribution map aiding predictive modeling for agriculture and climate-related decision-making.The potential for third-party, remote imaging is tremendous. So you dont need to be meteorologists or climate experts, but you can have access to a pre-processed, curated data set that could be available with easy tutorials, samples, and guides to embed those within your applications, models, or workflows, Blanch said about the goal of IBMs EI software.The OpenStreetMap images in this article were provided to TechNewsWorld courtesy of IBM.

Microsoft Ignite is on this week. Its the companys massive event focused on IT professionals. While you can attend this event remotely, you should consider attending in person this year because I still see far more AI failures than successes. When AI is deployed successfully, it has a significant positive impact on productivity, yet quality appears to be going in the wrong direction. But not for everyone.Shows like Microsoft Ignite are full of information on products and services. The event is attended by many IT professionals in different industries, with varying levels of AI deployment and very different paths to success.With the intense focus on all things AI, and Microsoft Copilot being one of the most widely spread AI tools, being able to talk to the people who have been successful with this tool, which vendors they worked with to deploy it successfully, and what practices helped their success become golden knowledge.Lets talk about why this years Ignite is important not only to attend but to attend in person. Well close with my Product of the Week: Bluesky, the social media platform I hear people are having the best success with as they move from Twitter/X.The Value of RelationshipsBuilding strong vendor and peer relationships is essential for AI success, especially when navigating the complexities of new technology like Microsoft Copilot, which appears to be the most successful AI offering in the market so far. It has enormous productivity-improving value to every product it enhances.Because Microsoft is a platform, tools, and cloud company, its tools tend to be relatively unfocused in terms of industry or geography. This broad applicability doesnt preclude tuning; it indicates the tools can be useful to almost every company, from enterprises to small businesses. While smaller companies will likely use AI as a service, enterprises are increasingly likely to use tools hosted on their own hardware or in a hybrid approach where sensitive information is retained, AI is accessed on-premises, and less secure information and implementation that dont require low latency can be cloud-deployed.The issue to address is that service providers, OEMs, and most companies trying to ramp up AI dont know enough about it to succeed. However, the people who understand AI and have had successful AI deployments (particularly the early adopters Microsoft assisted) will be at Ignite. Meeting these experts could make a difference in whether you overspend on these tools and help avoid common mistakes by learning from the mistakes of others and being able to delineate the hype from reality.Genuine Value vs. Exaggerated ClaimsI learned this lesson a few decades ago when Microsoft held an event arguing that its Windows NT servers could replace mainframes. When I had a chance to talk to two of Microsofts reference accounts, it became clear that Windows NT wasnt ready to replace mainframes for most organizations.The first indicated that it was working very well and had effectively replaced their mainframe, but also that had Microsoft not paid for the deployment, theyd never have been able to afford it.The second account didnt have a lot of time to talk to me because their NT servers had gone down, and the CEO was pissed. The poor guy likely thought his job wouldnt survive the result.Vendors tend to overpromise and underdeliver. Microsoft is better than many, but it has had this problem in the past. When it comes to AI, while Copilot is performant, it appears to have a significant adverse impact on quality, which is only a dealbreaker if you cant mitigate it.At Ignite, you can learn from the early adopters where the hype matches reality and where it doesnt and how to mitigate the damage from the latter. You dont want to be that poor guy who was an early adopter and likely lost his job as a result. These people can help ensure that your initial AI implementations with Copilot are something you can be proud of, not something youll be hiding from.Microsoft PartnersAt Ignite, there are always a lot of Microsoft partners, and every one of them will tell you that they are the partners for you. But along with these vendors are their customers who have used their services and deployment teams. Even if an OEM or service provider has a successful process, given how rapidly theyve had to ramp up, some teams know what they are doing, and some are learning on the job.Given that large language models (LLMs) cost around $100 million to develop, learning on the job can be incredibly expensive and embarrassing for the individuals or organizations that hire the teams tasked with training these models. Asking about not only the vendors IT professionals used successfully but also the specific teams they used can inform you which vendors are better than others and which vendor teams are better than others. I once met with an executive who correctly identified the best vendor for a specific task only to find that the team was unavailable. So, they passed and went with a different vendor who could provide their most successful team for the deployment. The efforts result was successful, but it might not have been if he had not looked under the covers to ensure the competency of the vendor and the team that provided the critical service.Wrapping UpAI is in the midst of a significant feeding frenzy. Most failed deployments appear to be primarily due to the immaturity of the tools, the inexperience of the vendors and customers, an excessive focus on productivity, and an inadequate focus on quality. This doesnt mean that AI is crap. It isnt, and it is working for an increasing number of companies.The problem is the inability to delineate between those products, tools, and vendors that are competent for your industry and company and those that are not. Because of Microsofts leadership in AI, Ignite is one of the few places to get the critical information you need to make better choices and ensure your expensive AI deployment is successful.BlueskySince Elon Musk took over Twitter and renamed it X, many users have been looking for an alternative service. Mastodon and Metas Threads initially looked like good alternatives, but both products had issues.While capable, Mastodon was somewhat difficult to use and hasnt lived up to being a Twitter replacement. Threads got a huge initial bump, but it fell off quickly because it lacked many of the features people relied on with Twitter. People still use both platforms, but they dont seem to be the go-to replacement for Twitter/X.(Image by Author / Gemini)Bluesky, at least for now, has gained traction as a viable replacement. It is relatively easy to use, and more feature-rich than Threads initially was. Im getting inquiries from all over the world on that platform this week as more and more people globally abandon or cut back on their use of Twitter to use Bluesky instead.Social media is a thing, and while it might be healthier not to spend as much time on it, Bluesky continues to be a much more balanced platform, one I and others feel safe using. It reminds me of the early days of Twitter when the tool was fun to use, and you didnt end up wasting time in online arguments with people who seemed outright crazy.For me, Bluesky is safer, more fun to use, and less full of misinformation than Twitter. It appears to be the best Twitter alternative for now, so its my Product of the Week.The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of ECT News Network.

AI Search Threatens Digital Economy, Warns ResearcherBy John P. Mello Jr.November 12, 2024 5:00 AM PT ADVERTISEMENTYour Salesforce Data, Your ResponsibilityLearn best practices to effortlessly protect your Salesforce Data with Rubrik. Find Out How Search engines using artificial intelligence could harmfully disrupt the digital economy, warns a researcher at Harvards Berkman Klein Center.[I]f AI search becomes our primary portal to the web, it threatens to disrupt an already precarious digital economy, Benjamin Brooks wrote in a recent article in the MIT Technology Review.Today, the production of content online depends on a fragile set of incentives tied to virtual foot traffic: ads, subscriptions, donations, sales, or brand exposure, he explained. By shielding the web behind an all-knowing chatbot, AI search could deprive creators of the visits and eyeballs they need to survive.Brooks urged the AI industry to address the content compensation problem before others do it. The AI industry should use this narrow window of opportunity to build a smarter content marketplace before governments fall back on interventions that are ineffective, benefit only a select few, or hamper the free flow of ideas across the web, he wrote.We need to bear in mind that these new systems, these new business models, are just taking off, he added in an interview with TechNewsWorld, but however we respond to these challenges, its important we do so in a thoughtful, measured and targeted way. Thats why industry should take the lead here.Government is now more confident regulating content and regulating bargaining than it ever was before, he said. The AI search industry should be mindful of that. With that additional pressure over the coming years, the industry should get ahead and build a smarter solution before government turns to blunter solutions.AI Search Impact UnclearSo far, the impact of AI search on the wallets of content creators is still foggy. Its not yet clear, but there is a strong argument to be made that there will be reduced traffic to many publishers, said Greg Sterling, co-founder of Near Media, a news, commentary, and analysis website.The evidence is mixed, he told TechNewsWorld. During the Google SGE period, there was evidence that organic links were being pushed down the page and therefore [were] less visible. Introduced in December 2023, Googles Search Generative Experience provides overviews of search topics using AI.However, he continued, there was little research on actual click behavior. Google claims that links within AI results get more engagement. We need to do more research on this issue.Chris Ferris, senior vice president of digital strategy at Pierpont Communications, a public relations agency in Houston, added that AI search will exacerbate the problem that already exists with traditional search. Most web pages dont get any traffic from organic search, he told TechNewsWorld.He cited research published by Search Engine Land predicting that organic traffic will fall between 18% and 64% because of AI search. Mark N. Vena, president and principal analyst at SmartTech Research in Las Vegas, noted there is growing evidence that AI-driven search, such as generative AI summaries in search engines, has caused a decline in click-through rates to content providers websites, as users increasingly consume information directly from AI responses.News outlets and niche content creators have reported reduced traffic from traditional search sources when AI systems generate comprehensive answers, he told TechNewsWorld. While detailed impact studies are ongoing, this trend indicates potential risks to publishers ad revenue and visibility.Without doubt, AI-driven search tools risk reducing traffic to content providers sites, potentially undermining ad revenues and subscriber models, he added.Without users clicking through to original sources, content creators may struggle to monetize their work, threatening the sustainability of quality journalism and niche content. Balancing AI-driven convenience with adequate attribution and redirection to content providers will be essential to preserve a healthy digital content ecosystem.Eyeball Apocalypse OverblownDev Nag, CEO and founder of QueryPal, an enterprise chatbot based in San Francisco, asserted that the narrative that AI search will destroy content creation by stealing eyeballs fundamentally misunderstands how content ecosystems have evolved.Think about how we transitioned from paid newspapers and centralized TV/movie studios to ad-supported online content, he told TechNewsWorld. Each shift brought predictions of doom, yet we ended up with far more content and from more content creators than ever.AI is poised to dramatically expand content reach through better discovery, translation, and personalization. Rather than destroying the content economy, AI search is likely to create a more efficient marketplace where quality content finds its intended audience more effectively.He contended that the evidence so far doesnt support the eyeball apocalypse narrative.While AI search is changing how people discover content, were seeing content creators adapt by producing more focused, high-quality material that AI systems can better understand and distribute, he said. The real transformation isnt about losing eyeballs. Its about shifting from a mass-market advertising model to more sophisticated monetization approaches.Nag predicted two primary models emerging: content licensing, where creators get paid for allowing AI systems to learn from and reference their work, even if its available openly otherwise, such as the recent Google-Reddit agreement, and a value-share system, where AI platforms distribute revenue based on how often they reference and synthesize a creators content. Thats currently possible with RAG-based systems that are able to provide explicit references like Perplexity and could be adapted to systems which are directly trained through sophisticated attribution tracking, he explained.Search engines could do as TikTok and YouTube do and share their revenue to build up creators feeding their services, added Rob Enderle, president and principal analyst at the Enderle Group, an advisory services firm in Bend, Ore.However, as AI advances, he told TechNewsWorld, it may need less and less human creators, which will be problematic to this future outcome.Ross Rubin, the principal analyst at Reticle Research, a consumer technology advisory firm in New York City, pointed out that AI search is the culmination of something seen over the course of decades.Back in the day, long before AI, there was Ask Jeeves, he told TechNewsWorld. It didnt execute on the idea very well, but the idea was, rather than get a whole bunch of links, you got an answer. In many cases, thats what the person searching wants. Its a better experience to be given information up front and not have to piece it together or track it down from multiple information sources.Downside of Big Content DealsIn his article, Brooks was critical of AI companies cutting deals with big media companies to avoid litigation or government intervention. This policy of selective appeasement is untenable, he wrote. It neglects the vast majority of creators online, who cannot readily opt out of AI search and who do not have the bargaining power of a legacy publisher.It takes the urgency out of reform by mollifying the loudest critics, he continued. It legitimizes a few AI firms through confidential and intricate commercial deals, making it difficult for new entrants to obtain equal terms or equal indemnity and potentially entrenching a new wave of search monopolists.In the long term, it could create perverse incentives for AI firms to favor low-cost and low-quality sources over high-quality but more expensive news or content, fostering a culture of uncritical information consumption in the process, he added.At this point in the development of AI search, Sterling said its still too early to tell how the game will play out. We have many assumptions and fears but need to test them and produce real data so that were not operating from a place of pure conjecture, he observed.John P. Mello Jr. has been an ECT News Network reporter since 2003. His areas of focus include cybersecurity, IT issues, privacy, e-commerce, social media, artificial intelligence, big data and consumer electronics. He has written and edited for numerous publications, including the Boston Business Journal, the Boston Phoenix, Megapixel.Net and Government Security News. Email John.Leave a CommentClick here to cancel reply. Please sign in to post or reply to a comment. New users create a free account.Related StoriesMore by John P. Mello Jr.view allMore in Search Tech

ANALYST COMMENTARY Qualcomms AI-First Vision for the Future of Smart DevicesBy Mark N. VenaNovember 11, 2024 2:22 PM PTQualcomm showcased its latest innovations at the 2024 Snapdragon Summit, held in Maui, Hawaii, from Oct. 2123. (Photo by Author) ADVERTISEMENTYour Salesforce Data, Your ResponsibilityLearn best practices to effortlessly protect your Salesforce Data with Rubrik. Find Out How At its Snapdragon Summit in October, Qualcomm emphasized its commitment to an AI-first future, revealing advances aimed at bringing AI-powered experiences to a broad spectrum of devices, from smartphones and laptops to extended reality (XR) and automotive platforms.Held in Hawaii, the event showcased Qualcomms dedication to making artificial intelligence more accessible by developing powerful on-device AI capabilities. This strategic move reflects a vision of technology thats smarter, more intuitive, and closely connected to consumer priorities like privacy, performance, and energy efficiency.Snapdragon X Elite: AI-Driven PC Performance RedefinedOne of the summits key announcements was the Snapdragon X Elite platform, Qualcomms latest PC chipset that delivers high-performance computing with advanced AI capabilities.Engineered to efficiently manage demanding workloads, Qualcomm designed the X Elite to provide users with a seamless experience for tasks such as real-time language translation, voice recognition, and enhanced photo and video editing.Unlike traditional processors, the Snapdragon X Elite handles AI processing directly on the device, improving speed and data privacy by reducing dependency on cloud processing. This local AI capability empowers the device to perform more quickly and protect sensitive information, catering to users who prioritize performance and security.The Snapdragon X Elites 12-core CPU is poised to challenge conventional PC chipmakers like Intel by delivering a balance of high-speed performance with power efficiency.Qualcomm claims that Snapdragon X Elite is comparable in power to Intels Lunar Lake and uses less energy a crucial benefit for users looking for high-performance laptops with long battery life. Qualcomms move to Arm-based architecture underscores its commitment to energy-efficient processing, positioning Snapdragon as a formidable competitor in the PC market.Snapdragon 8 Gen 3: AI-Enhanced Mobile ExperiencesAnother major reveal at the summit was the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, designed for mobile devices. This chipset elevates smartphone capabilities with AI-driven camera improvements, real-time translation, and personalized user interactions.The AI-powered camera system, for example, can optimize settings based on environmental factors like lighting, enabling users to capture high-quality images even in challenging conditions. Such advanced personalization uses AI to adapt to users unique needs, making mobile devices more responsive and intuitive. By processing these AI functions directly on the device, Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 minimizes latency, providing real-time results that enhance the user experience. This approach also emphasizes data privacy, as processing doesnt rely on the cloud.In combination with connectivity upgrades like 5G and Wi-Fi 7, the Gen 3 chipset supports the rapid data exchange required for these sophisticated AI functions, ensuring a smooth, high-speed experience for mobile users.Snapdragon Auto: In-Car AI ExperiencesBeyond personal devices, Qualcomm highlighted the transformative potential of its Snapdragon Auto platform, with an entire day devoted to the companys engagement in the automotive segment.Snapdragon Auto integrates AI capabilities to provide real-time navigation, voice assistance, and advanced driver safety features, aiming to make driving safer and more intuitive. Qualcomms automotive innovations extend its broader AI-first vision, where AI enhances convenience and security across different aspects of life, from mobile and PC devices to vehicles.This automotive AI aims to enhance user interactions and make driving safer and more efficient by optimizing the cars systems in real time. The Snapdragon Auto platform thus represents Qualcomms ambition to extend AI-first experiences into new domains, aligning with the increasing demand for more intelligent, connected vehicles.Connectivity Innovations: Fueling an AI-First EcosystemThe Qualcomm Summit also highlighted advancements in connectivity, an essential factor for supporting AI-driven devices. The Snapdragon platforms, including X Elite and 8 Gen 3, feature built-in 5G and Wi-Fi 7 support, which are vital for delivering the seamless, high-speed data exchange that AI applications demand.Qualcomms connectivity enhancements provide stable, fast connections that improve the user experience for remote work, gaming, and virtual meetings, eliminating interruptions and improving response times.For instance, Snapdragon-powered laptops like the Dell XPS 13 and Samsung Galaxy Book4 leverage 5G to maintain reliable connectivity, making these devices highly suitable for todays hybrid work environments. By integrating 5G and Wi-Fi 7, Qualcomm ensures that its Snapdragon technology supports the rapid data transfer necessary for AI tasks, creating a cohesive ecosystem where all devices benefit from fast, reliable internet access.Product Proof Points: Snapdragon Elite-Powered LaptopsWith prices starting respectively at $1,499 and $1,399 for comparable configurations, the Dell XPS 13 and Samsung Galaxy Book4 Edge are prime examples of how Snapdragon Elite technology transforms the laptop experience. Both devices integrate Qualcomms Snapdragon Elite platform, which enhances their performance, efficiency, and AI capabilities to meet the diverse needs of modern users, from business professionals to casual tech enthusiasts.The Dell XPS 13 9345, powered by Snapdragon Elite, offers significant performance and battery life gains. Featuring a 13.4 optional touch-capable display and known for its sleek design, the XPS 13 benefits from Qualcomms energy-efficient processing, allowing users to work, multitask, and even game without compromising performance or overheating. The AI-driven thermal management system keeps the laptop cool during prolonged usage, making it a comfortable choice for intensive tasks.Dell XPS 13 9345 laptop (Photo by Author)Snapdragons built-in 5G connectivity further enhances the XPS 13 by allowing users to stay connected to high-speed internet, a valuable feature for remote workers and frequent travelers. This connectivity improvement supports smooth video conferencing, cloud-based work, and large file transfers, reducing frustrations over poor internet speed and interruptions.The Samsung Galaxy Book4 Edge, which features a crisp 16 WQXGA AMOLED touch display, also benefits from Snapdragon Elites AI capabilities, particularly in productivity and entertainment. One of its standout features, Copilot, is an AI assistant that streamlines tasks and personalizes the user experience.By learning from user behavior, Copilot assists with text summarization, schedule organization, and personalized recommendations, making Galaxy Book4 ideal for users managing tasks and workflows.Samsung Galaxy Book4 Edge laptop (Image Credit: Samsung)Snapdragons AI-driven graphics processing also ensures that the Galaxy Book4 provides a vibrant visual experience, automatically adjusting brightness and color for optimal viewing. This visual enhancement makes the laptop an excellent option for streaming, casual gaming, and multimedia consumption. With these features, Snapdragon Elite essentially turns the Galaxy Book4 into a productivity powerhouse and an entertainment hub.Without compromising overall performance, battery efficiency is another highlight for the Dell XPS 13 and Galaxy Book4. Snapdragons intelligent power management maximizes battery life based on user habits, extending usage time between charges and meeting the demands of users who rely on their laptops for extended periods without easy access to a power source.Qualcomms AI-First Vision: Shaping the Tech LandscapeQualcomms Snapdragon Summit made a bold statement about the future of AI in technology, positioning Snapdragon X Elite as a serious competitor to Intels upcoming Lunar Lake chips. By shifting to Arm-based architecture, Qualcomm has embraced energy-efficient, AI-capable devices, directly challenging the x86 dominance in the PC market. The Snapdragon X Elites robust performance, combined with its power efficiency, marks a significant step forward in Qualcomms bid to redefine expectations for laptop performance.With both the Dell and Samsung laptops acting as proof points, Qualcomms commitment to on-device AI is central to this vision. This approach enhances performance and protects data privacy by processing sensitive information locally, meeting evolving consumer demands for smarter, more intuitive devices that dont compromise security. Qualcomms advancements in connectivity further enhance this user experience, providing Snapdragon-powered devices with the reliable, high-speed data connections that todays highly connected world requires.In challenging Intels claims, Qualcomm conveyed a sense of confidence and ambition, positioning Snapdragon X Elite as a more practical, efficient choice for real-world performance. The companys shift aligns with its broader AI-first vision, where devices span mobile to automotive platforms operate with integrated intelligence.The Snapdragon Summit highlighted Qualcomms readiness to lead the tech industry toward a future where AI enhances every aspect of device functionality, from efficiency and connectivity to security and usability.Closing ThoughtsQualcomms latest Snapdragon advancements are shaping a future where AI-powered devices offer robust, more responsive user experiences. Qualcomm demonstrates how AI can transform everyday technology through the X Elite and 8 Gen 3 platforms, making it more innovative and intuitive across various sectors.Snapdragon Elite technology is advancing raw performance and enriching the user experience by adding thoughtful, adaptive features that make devices more intelligent, personal, and responsive.My recent SmartTechCheck podcast, recorded at the Qualcomm Summit, features a lengthy interview with a team of analysts discussing the highlights of the event, as well as some standout product demos that are good examples of the companys AI-first vision and strategy.With AI-driven processing, advanced connectivity, and energy-efficient design, Qualcomms Snapdragon platform provides a premium, future-proofed experience that caters to todays mobile, tech-savvy users.The Snapdragon Summit highlighted Qualcomms dedication to a connected, AI-first ecosystem that redefines expectations across personal computing, mobile, and automotive markets. At the event, the company made a strong case that Snapdragon-powered devices promise to become essential tools for a modern lifestyle, seamlessly blending high performance, data security, and intelligent, adaptive features.Mark N. Vena has been an ECT News Network columnist since 2022. As a technology industry veteran for over 25 years, Mark covers numerous tech topics, including PCs, smartphones, smart homes, connected health, security, PC and console gaming, and streaming entertainment solutions. Vena is the CEO and Principal Analyst at SmartTech Research, based in Las Vegas. Email Mark.Leave a CommentClick here to cancel reply. Please sign in to post or reply to a comment. New users create a free account.Related StoriesMore by Mark N. Venaview allMore in Chips

OPINION AMD Is Making Great Strides in AI, May End Up Merging With IntelBy Rob EnderleNovember 11, 2024 5:00 AM PT ADVERTISEMENTQuality Leads That Turn Into DealsFull-service marketing programs from TechNewsWorld deliver sales-ready leads. Segment by geography, industry, company size, job title, and more. Get Started Now. AMD has made significant strides in AI. Last week, it announced that its first 1-billion parameter large language models are performing exceptionally well. Under the leadership of CEO Lisa Su and with the help of CTO and Executive VP Mark Papermaster, AMD has done an admirable job of fast pivoting after Nvidia and OpenAIs initial surprise success to create a credible generative AI solution.What makes this incredible is that it took Nvidia around 20 years to get where it is and although Nvidia clearly plowed the AI field, AMD is planting AI seeds like crazy. While this might be considered a risk to Nvidias growth, demand for AI solutions remains high and largely unmet. In a rapidly expanding market, all major players can benefit, and both AMD and Nvidia are well-positioned to succeed.In addition, the U.S. is pushing for AMD and Intel to merge, which could remove a lot of the marketing inefficiencies in the x86 space and allow both firms to better compete in the growing battle for AI dominance, in which China represents the most significant competitive threat.Lets talk about AMDs AI progress and its potential merger with Intel. Well close with my Product of the Week: Google Gemini Advanced, which has proven incredibly helpful in creating images to accompany my writing.AMD and AINvidia caught the tech market with its pants down when it became clear that it was the technology behind OpenAIs ChatGPT platform that was, in turn, the foundation for Microsoft Copilot. While Microsoft did a relatively poor job launching Copilot+, Copilot has been immensely successful, particularly with developers. Given that Nvidia took around two decades to build its incredible AI platform, it seemed unlikely that anyone would be able to compete with it for a few years.Well, AMD clearly didnt get that memo. To catch up with Nvidia, AMD bought a company called Silo AI, known for its extensive pool of AI experts, rivaling even IBM. Silo AI was already amassing a number of successful AI projects in a market currently more defined by unsuccessful projects.AMDs methodical approach to AI has been refreshing in a market where many players seem to be selling solutions that fall short. Sadly, this is the nature of a new tech market darling. People are so desperate to get it they arent looking under the covers hard enough. The result is an unusually high failure rate.However, both AMD and Nvidia are providing well-curated solutions. Nvidia built its capabilities largely organically, while AMD has done it faster through acquisition (given Nvidia was a first mover, this option wasnt available to it in time).Much like AMD has always been a strong competitor to Intel and is an even stronger one today, it has also become an impressively strong peer to Nvidia as both companies move aggressively on this massive AI growth opportunity.AMD and Intel May MergeCurrently, AMD is also outselling Intel in the data center space, which most of us thought was impossible. This shift showcases the difficulty Intel CEO Pat Gelsinger faces as he tries to turn around the company, partly by navigating the Chips Act to build a massive U.S. microprocessor manufacturing capability, a strategic imperative for both Intel and the U.S. Government.Intel is one of the too big to fail companies from a national security perspective, so the U.S. government is pushing for an AMD/Intel merger where AMD would manage the combined companies while manufacturing would spin out as a separate entity. Gelsinger would likely run the manufacturing spin-out, giving Lisa Su the resources to better compete with the threat represented by China, especially Huawei, a company that has overcome U.S. sanctions to challenge Apple, among others. Huawei is considered one of the AI challengers to Nvidia and, by extension, AMD and Intel.This combination would significantly improve both x86s prospects by eliminating unneeded competition between AMD and Intel both of which are facing challenges from Arm, China, and Huawei and allow greater focus on the strategic U.S. effort to build up domestic processor manufacturing.Wrapping UpThere is a lot of change going on in the tech space. Companies are flocking to AI solutions like nothing Ive ever seen. The AI ramp-up and competitive dangers are pronounced. The U.S., while currently in the lead, is being approached rapidly by China, which is executing well with better government support than the U.S. has been able to create yet. AMD has stepped up to this competition behind Nvidia and is performing impressively well and not just with AI. Its primary processor business is doing so well that its being asked to buy and merge with Intels development side and spin out manufacturing so it can advance more quickly with greater focus.While we often hold up Nvidia as the gold standard for AI computing, AMD is moving up fast as an alternative, and the market needs alternatives. Its growing too fast for one or even two primary vendors. Lisa Sus team continues to do impressive work, and I can only imagine the success they will likely enjoy in 2025.Google Gemini AdvancedI use several AI products at the moment, one of which is Google Gemini. There are two forms of Gemini: The base form is free, and Gemini Advanced costs around $20 monthly.While I initially struggled a bit learning how to state prompts to create images I wanted properly, both Gemini Advanced and I have improved over time. It now only takes me one or two iterations to create an image to complement my writing.Ive found Gemini Advanced to be incredibly fun to mess around with. For instance, I created the image shown here with the prompt, generate an image of a beautiful anime girl in a flying car fighting a horrific monster in space.The thing about AI tools is that they need to be fun and rewarding to use because there is a bit of a learning curve in how you phrase prompts and each tool requires slightly different phrasing. Gemini Advanced is clearly a kid-friendly, G-rated tool, so its a bit safer than some of the others that dont have guardrails.Im having great fun with Google Gemini Advanced, so its my Product of the Week. You should check out the free version.Rob Enderle has been an ECT News Network columnist since 2003. His areas of interest include AI, autonomous driving, drones, personal technology, emerging technology, regulation, litigation, M&E, and technology in politics. He has an MBA in human resources, marketing and computer science. He is also a certified management accountant. Enderle currently is president and principal analyst of the Enderle Group, a consultancy that serves the technology industry. He formerly served as a senior research fellow at Giga Information Group and Forrester. Email Rob.Leave a CommentClick here to cancel reply. Please sign in to post or reply to a comment. New users create a free account.Related StoriesMore by Rob Enderleview allMore in Tech BuzzShould we end the twice-yearly clock change for business efficiency?Yes - Making Daylight Saving Time permanent could boost evening activity.Yes - Making Standard Time permanent could improve early work hours.No - Businesses adapt well to the current system.Loading ...

Microsoft was the first to put AI on devices with its Copilot+ launch months ago. It caught Google and Apple sleeping and seemed poised to own the AI space with the help of OpenAI and ChatGPT.However, Microsofts execution was so flawed that it isnt clear if anyone is even using these Copilot+ features now. Recall is still being held back, and buyers are confused about what is or is not an AI PC, given there are no desktop AI PCs, gaming AI PCs, or workstation AI PCs in the market or on the near-term horizon.This has given both Apple and Google time to close the competitive gap. Apple announced its Apple Intelligence initiative in June and then rolled it out last week in a way that should have more general Apple users using desktop and smartphone AI than Windows users are. Google has also begun to roll out AI features, so both companies are taking advantage of Microsofts extremely poor execution.The big difference for Apple is that it has started offering AI experiences in Apple stores with 15-minute sessions so that Apple users and potential users can play with the technology and become more familiar with it. There is no similar effort from either Microsoft or Google.Lets discuss how this is likely to benefit Apple and its users during this AI rollout. Well then close with my Product of the Week, my new favorite phone: the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold, which I now carry daily.The Problem With People and FeaturesWe are creatures of habit. We tend to like to do things as weve always done them. This is problematic for companies like Microsoft and feature-rich products like Office 365 and Windows because their advantage over other offerings is their more features.What makes this problematic is that if users dont use the massive number of features, it is relatively easy to migrate those users to a competing offering because the competition doesnt have to bridge all of the features, only the ones most people actually use. We are seeing this happen today with Google Workspace, which, while not as complete as Office 365, does what most people want done and is far cheaper during a time of belt-tightening.If you dont get people to use and like the parts of your product that make it unique, even if dominant, a lower-cost competitor can easily migrate those users to their competing offering. To overcome this, if you have a complex product or a unique set of features like, say, Copilot+, you need to promote using these features and remind users of their value. Otherwise, your ability to retain your customer base is significantly degraded.Internet Explorer ExampleWe saw this happen with Internet Explorer. Initially blindsided by Netscape Navigator, Microsoft executed exceptionally well and ultimately stole the market away.Netscapes downfall stemmed from two strategic missteps. First, they openly challenged Microsoft. Then, instead of making Navigator a front end to a suite of compelling web tools, Netscape chose to compete directly with Microsoft Office. This shift placed them on Microsofts turf, a battlefield they were not equipped to win. Netscape lost that battle and became part of history. Then, after rising to around 98% market share, Microsoft defunded IE much as it has now largely defunded Windows. Google came forward with a version of its Chrome browser that seemed to work better than IE, and Microsoft bled market share.Given that Microsoft Edge the browser that followed Internet Explorer is now based on Googles Chromium technology, Google owns the browser space and isnt repeating the mistakes that Netscape and Microsoft made.Microsofts Artificial Intelligence Screw UpGenerative AI, the current advanced iteration of AI, is moving aggressively into the market, mainly via the cloud. Microsoft launched Copilot+ with two features: Cocreator and Recall, which, on paper, were both very useful. Then Microsoft had to pull Recall back because its presentation raised security concerns without mitigating them, and Cocreator alone is basically Dall-E but running locally.In addition, the only PCs that would run these two apps were those initially configured with the Snapdragon X processor and were focused on people who valued high portability but not performance. Its a group that just typically wants the basics and doesnt chase new features or capabilities as much as performance users, gamers, and workstation users do.So, not only was one of the two apps held back, but the people targeted with the hardware were not those that typically would be first movers for AI tools.Thus far, it has been one of the worst misfires Ive ever seen.Apples Better AI ApproachApple is rolling out its AI tools to its entire customer base, not just a subset of laptop users. Plus, if done right, the in-store experiences mentioned above will convince users to try and eventually use these AI tools, ramping up use far faster than Microsofts approach can. As a result, even though Apples AI implementation still lags behind Microsofts, more people are likely to use it, so it should be a far stronger competitive differentiator. This is because an unused feature has no value, and Apple is simply doing a far better job of getting people to use Apple Intelligence than Microsoft is doing with Copilot.Wrapping UpWhile entering a market first, as Microsoft did, can provide a significant competitive advantage, poor execution allows competing companies to slipstream this initial effort and seize the market the first mover created. This is what happened with Netscape Navigator and Internet Explorer. Microsoft moved late in that race, but it out-executed Netscape. Now we see something similar happen with AI between Apple and Microsoft and Google is right behind Apple. Microsoft opened the market but stumbled, giving Apple the chance to step in with a stronger effort. While Microsofts Cloud AI efforts remain largely uncontested, its desktop AI effort is now being eclipsed by both Apple and Google due to Microsofts very poor execution.While part of this is because Microsoft abandoned the smartphone market, the result is the same: Apple is out-executing Microsoft. That means that Microsofts goal of displacing Apple will not only not be achieved this cycle, but Apple has a decent chance of taking a significant share from Microsoft as people become more excited about Apples more useful AI tools and base user training.Google Pixel 9 Pro FoldI read a lot, and Ive long been a Microsoft phone user, both initially and when Microsoft brought out the Surface Duo and Surface Duo 2. The Duo phones were perfect for me because they used Qualcomm Snapdragon processors, worked incredibly well, and they felt like a book when reading on them.Nonetheless, keeping with the trend since Bill Gates stepped down from the company, Microsoft again under-executed with the Duo and is again out of the phone business, leading me to search for a replacement.The closest was the Google Pixel Fold, which was a good phone but lacked a powerful processor, and it was decidedly less feature-rich than my old and obsolete Duo 2 phone, which had to be retired. Then the Pixel 9 Pro Fold came out. While it, too, lacks a Qualcomm processor (which it should have as a premium phone), the Google processor it has is far more powerful than the one in the old Pixel Fold, and it supports head-mounted displays that the older Pixel Fold did not.As a result, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold has been a dream to live with. It has decent all-day battery life even if Im reading for most of the day, fast inductive charging (though the magnet on the phone is weaker than on earlier phones, so inductive charging placement is a bit more difficult), the camera is very good, and the sound quality, for a small device, is decent as well.At around $1,300, this isnt a cheap phone, but it is worth the money. While Im still lusting after that Huawei Tri-Fold phone I cant get my hands on, this Google phone is certainly less expensive and more practical.The phone is handy for movies on a plane or in a car, great for reading and browsing the web, and has a head-mounted display and a keyboard. It can even sub for my laptop in a pinch. Ive been very pleased with the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold, and it is my Product of the Week.

Because of Intels relative weakness at the moment, Arm has an opportunity to move outside of its smartphone base and solidly into PCs. Instead of backing Qualcomms play, Arm has decided to cancel Qualcomms license. This move not only appears to be an abuse of power but is extremely ill-timed, given Intel and AMD have correctly identified the threat and formed a partnership to fight it.It suggests that maybe Qualcomm shouldnt have blocked Nvidias attempt to buy Arm because, to get government approvals for the deal, Nvidia would have had to protect Qualcomms interests and be blocked from doing what Arm is now doing to Qualcomm.Further, Arm is at risk even for smartphones because the hottest smartphone currently on the market is from Huawei. It doesnt use an Arm processor but a Kirin processor, which, on paper, might be better. My Product of the Week is a Huawei phone pulling interest in line with the original iPhone. So, this Arm vs. Qualcomm war is ill-timed.Qualcomms PC Effort Is StrugglingWhile there is a lot of focus coming out of Huawei from Qualcomm on the performance of the new Snapdragon processors for laptops, the big problem for them isnt performance but compatibility. This compatibility issue, while not pronounced for those of us who dont use many custom apps, has become a bridge too far for large companies with a lot of custom Windows apps.In addition, over the last few months, AMD and Intel have stepped up their laptop processor game. While Qualcomm can still successfully argue its better in terms of efficiency, the need for emulators detracts from this, and x86 is the entrenched technology. This means all Intel and AMD need to be is good enough, but Qualcomm has to outperform them.One critical mistake was the failure to drive more 5G capability into these Snapdragon notebooks. Qualcomms biggest advantages are its wireless capability and powering a laptop that has not only all-day battery life but also instant and pervasive connectivity. However, only the Microsoft Surface Tablet has this capability. Coincidentally, I understand that the Surface Snapdragon AI PC products are significantly outselling everyone elses, suggesting that 5G capability was a significant potential game changer.One of the significant reasons the line is struggling is that it is both different and not well-marketed. When a product is different, its marketing requirement is higher because we dont like different unless that difference has key benefits.For instance, the LG Prada phone (on which the first iPhone was allegedly based) didnt sell well because people didnt like virtual keyboards and preferred phones like the Blackberry. But Apple marketed the consumer benefits of a screen phone and pivoted the market to it, knocking dominant companies like Palm, Research In Motion (Blackberry), and even Microsoft out of the market.Thats the power of well-funded and fully executed marketing, and we just didnt see that with these offerings.The x86 Ecosystem Advisory GroupIntel and AMD recently formed the x86 Ecosystem Advisory Group to defend against Arm and any other challenging technology. This group has pretty much every major PC OEM within it, as well as several server and web providers, including Google, Meta, and Microsoft.This is a hell froze over type of relationship, given AMD and Intel have been at each others throats for years. But these two competitors rightly saw the risk, put aside their differences, and moved collectively against the Arm threat.While the group is still too young to make much progress, it provides significant resources with the goal of not only blocking Arm from entering the broader computing ecosystem but also the potential to challenge Arm for tablets and potentially smartphone alternatives in the future.Arm should have moved immediately to consolidate its licensees into a similar group, much like the partnerships formed during wars where countries put aside their differences to address the broader threat. Instead, Arm decided to go to war with Qualcomm. This would be like Russia in World War II deciding to bomb the United Kingdom while being invaded by Germany. The outcome of that war would likely have been very different.The Huawei ThreatRight now, Huawei is contained because of its alleged close relationship with the Chinese government. Nonetheless, its products have for some time had significant price and performance advantages that appear to be increasing. Much like the electric car companies in China have started to outstrip even Tesla, Chinese companies appear to be advancing far quicker than their Western counterparts. Should relations ease again between the West and the East, Western tech companies like Arm, Qualcomm, and Tesla will be at greater risk.This situation is a threat to Arms and Qualcomms current core markets, making this conflict between the two companies not only ill-timed but incredibly stupid because it puts a cloud over both companies futures.Wrapping UpArm has significant potential to redefine the personal computing space, but so do x86 and challengers like Huawei. This is not a time to launch preemptive attacks on licensees; it is time to gather them to counter the AMD and Intel Advisory Group effort.This fight between Arm and Qualcomm has the potential to create the same kind of dynamic that resulted in the iPhone taking out Nokia, Blackberry, and Palm, among others, and destroying the otherwise bright future of both firms.Lets hope the adults eventually step in because should this fight continue to escalate, it wont end well for either firm.Huawei Tri-Fold Mate XT SmartphoneThe Huawei Tri-Fold Mate XT may just be the most amazing smartphone launched so far.Thanks to the Chinese and Huawei sanctions and restrictions, this phone is available only in China for now, but it has Samsung worried and again points to how far off the cutting-edge Apple is.This phone expands from a good-sized 6.4-inch screen to a whopping 10.2-inch tablet, creating an iPhone and an iPad in one device. Its cameras are as good or better than any premium phone in the market, and when folded, it has nearly the same thickness as a single-screen phone.Given it has only two hinges, the tri refers to the number of screens, not the number of hinges. The phone can be used with a single screen, a double screen with the spare screen on the back, or with all three screens as needed. The UI, which is based on Huaweis Harmony OS (not Android), handles all three configurations with ease.One shortcoming is battery size. It has a small, smartphone-sized battery, not a tablet-sized battery, giving it a relatively short battery life in tablet mode. Another shortcoming is the price, nearly $3,000, making it one of the most expensive phones out there.It isnt waterproof, and the screens are relatively fragile. Screen protectors typically dont work well on foldable phones. You can gray market buy it on eBay, but with prices often pushing a whopping $10,000 and little compatibility outside of China, even I wouldnt buy one that way. But the massive premium prices suggest enough people want this phone to justify that unaffordable price.Shortcomings aside, this thing draws a crowd because there is nothing quite like it. Plus, it may show how Qualcomm, assuming it survives the Arm insanity, could move more aggressively on the PC market by creating a different class of PC, much like the iPhone initially was a different class of smartphone, similar to what Huawei is doing with the Trifold. Embrace the difference and push it with a uniquely interesting design.Qualcomm is the only processor company with something that could effectively compete with the Kirin processor in this phone. If the Arm community doesnt step up to this threat, they may wish theyd studied what Apple did to Nokia more deeply. In the end, even though I cant use it, I have lust in my heart for the Huawei Mate XT Tri-Fold smartphone, and it is my Product of the Week.

Multifamily Residences Turn to Tech for Tenant Appeal, Efficiency: ReportBy John P. Mello Jr.October 29, 2024 5:00 AM PT ADVERTISEMENTFuel your eCommerce growth in 2025Discover fast, flexible funding options to fuel your eCommerce growth. Learn how to unlock capital and scale your business. Download the eBook! Fast, secure, reliable connectivity is now an expectation at multifamily residences, according to a report released Monday by market research and consulting company Parks Associates and Xfinity Communities.Residents need access to high-speed internet services to work, attend class, and stream video and games, among other high-bandwidth activities, it explained, while properties need connectivity solutions that help them better manage operations, bring down costs, and reduce risk in an age of skyrocketing insurance costs.By embracing connectivity, IoT, and wireless technologies, property owners can not only improve their operational efficiency and cost-effectiveness but also enhance tenant satisfaction and retention, ultimately leading to increased profitability and long-term asset value, Jeff Barney, president of TP-Link Systems, a global provider of networking devices and accessories, headquartered in Irvine, Calif., told TechNewsWorld.Property owners can generate revenue by providing IoT and property-wide Wi-Fi services to the tenant, he added.Many multifamily properties are looking at different ways to deploy and adopt connectivity technologies, noted Parks analyst Kristen Hanich, but theyre also carefully considering the financial results they can expect by rolling them out.They want to know what the return on investment [ROI] will be on operations, she told TechNewsWorld, and if theyre a short-term kind of investment company, how much will be added to a propertys value by rolling out some of these technologies.Gaining Competitive EdgeThe multifamily real estate market is embracing connectivity and IoT to enhance tenant experiences and attract tech-savvy renters, explained Mark N. Vena, president and principal analyst at SmartTech Research in Las Vegas.Smart building technologies like automated lighting, temperature control, and security systems improve operational efficiency and lower maintenance costs for property managers, he told TechNewsWorld. Additionally, connected devices enable better energy management, reducing utility expenses and promoting sustainability.As tenants increasingly expect seamless connectivity and smart living solutions, properties offering these amenities gain a competitive edge in the market, he added.Hanich explained that many new properties under construction for the last few years are about to hit the market. When they do, we expect that a lot of existing properties are going to have to compete more tightly for renters and residents, she said. So we expect that a lot of existing properties, older properties, are going to look at what amenities they can offer folks and see what they can do when it comes to some of these connected solutions.However, according to the Parks report, a lack of suitable pre-existing networking infrastructure is a top barrier holding multiple dwelling units (MDUs) back from widely deploying IoT. Many existing properties were created without suitable wiring or the infrastructure to run new wiring, it continued. Additionally, many properties do not own the wiring infrastructure, making new connectivity deployments costly or not feasible. As a result, older properties are far less likely to offer smart amenities and have worse experiences with their existing infrastructure.Parks researchers found that 82% of properties 10 years old or older that offer Wi-Fi have difficulty maintaining device connections on the network compared with just 13% of newer properties.Internet Must Be Available ImmediatelyPoor connections have been a chronic problem due to wireless environments becoming increasingly crowded and wireless devices proliferating, Barney noted, but the introduction of Wi-Fi 7 promises to address those problems with more stable connections.In addition, multi-gig Ethernet is becoming available. With multi-gig Ethernet, more and more bands are becoming available and are being deployed to the properties to help people get connected, Barney said.Infrastructure woes arent the only challenges facing tech in the multifamily residential market. Theres a lack of understanding about what these technologies can and cannot do, and a lack of skills on how to set them up so they perform as intended and provide a better return on investment, Rob Enderle, president and principal analyst with the Enderle Group, an advisory services firm in Bend, Ore. told TechNewsWorld.The Parks report maintained that connectivity services must connect residents to experiences they care about: entertainment, work, safety, and smart living.Furthermore, it must be ready at move-in, it added. According to Parks research, the majority of MDU residents say having internet ready to go immediately after moving in is very important in their next home. That ranks third among 16 amenities rated by consumers in the research, just after good insulation, soundproofing, and low-cost internet.Parks also noted that more and more MDU residents are using smart home tech acquired themselves and from their properties. It explained that 22% of apartment renters and 58% of condo owners use smart home devices today, and these residents need modern networking services to support them.In fact, it added, many properties are offering smart home devices as a differentiator to attract and retain residents a differentiator that appears to be popular, as 79% of MDU dwellers with property-provided smart home devices and services are satisfied with them.Curbing Insurance CostsConnected technology can impact another concern in the multifamily residence market: insurance. Citing information from TBM Multifamily, an insurance and risk management firm, Parks noted premiums have soared 10% to 40% for multifamily property owners. The report explained that properties are seeing the benefits of deploying risk-mitigation technology solutions to reduce the damages caused by catastrophic events such as leaks and floods, which damage multiple units. These solutions are not typically resident-facing but have a strong ROI when implemented on a large scale through reductions in insurance rate increases and preventing small leaks from becoming large incidents.There is a growing trend towards insurance discounts for properties with connected solutions, such as water leak detectors. However, Parks acknowledged that this is still at an early stage, and properties may need to negotiate rates or change providers to see the full benefits.Without question, connectivity and IoT in the multifamily market offer significant benefits by enhancing tenant satisfaction, streamlining property management, and improving operational efficiency, Vena said.These technologies also contribute to sustainability efforts through better energy management and resource optimization. As smart living becomes more prevalent, embracing connectivity and IoT can help properties stay competitive and future-proof their offerings.John P. Mello Jr. has been an ECT News Network reporter since 2003. His areas of focus include cybersecurity, IT issues, privacy, e-commerce, social media, artificial intelligence, big data and consumer electronics. He has written and edited for numerous publications, including the Boston Business Journal, the Boston Phoenix, Megapixel.Net and Government Security News. Email John.Leave a CommentClick here to cancel reply. Please sign in to post or reply to a comment. New users create a free account.More by John P. Mello Jr.view allMore in Internet of Things