(This column originally appeared in Forbes)
Here are five things in tech that happened this week and how they affect your business. Did you miss them?
1 — OpenAI plans app store for AI software, The Information reports.
Research laboratory OpenAI has made announcements about introducing a marketplace where developers can offer their version of the generative AI as reported by The Information. ChatGPT — launched by OpenAI last year — has been the focus of numerous tech experts who have seen an increase in its usage. Companies are now refining how the technology is used (zeroing in on specific data) and developing their own models that OpenAI plans to include in this marketplace. Strategically, this widens the company’s customer base according to those familiar with this development.(Source: Reuters)
Why this is important for your business:
If you’re a developer or looking for custom-developed AI solutions then the OpenAI app store seems like a good place to start. But like I’ve been saying to my clients for a while now, let the software vendors do this. You’re job is to ask, learn and leverage these apps to benefit your business.
2 — Twitter to focus on video, commerce in major business revamp: report.
Twitter will be undergoing significant changes to “revitalize the social media company’s business…” the New York Post reported. Citing a recent investor presentation made by the new CEO — Linda Yaccarino — along with Elon Musk — new strategies are in motion. According to the Post, Reuters was granted an up-close review of the details. Yaccarino conveyed to investors that the company is talking with political and entertainment figures as part of this effort to stabilize and improve upon the Twitter brand since Musk’s takeover. (Source: New York Post)
Why this is important for your business:
I’m still on Team-Twitter. I use it daily and have found both the performance to be fine and the toxicity to be less than before. I’m hoping more businesses will gravitate to this platform so that I can have opportunities with potential new clients.
3 — WordPress.com launches its AI assistant for creating posts, headlines, and translations.
A new AI support system called Jetpack AI Assistant is now available in WordPress. The web builder’s parent company — Automattic — made the announcement and outlined specifics. The AI tool is programmed to assist with blog posts and content structure. Programmed to automate editing tasks and translations — Jetpack AI also has a chat feature where users can ask it questions. (Source: IBL News)
Why this is important for your business:
My company’s blog is pretty active and we’re WordPress users so these tools will help us get more content out quicker.
4 — Recruiting automation startup Humanly lands $12M as it doubles down on AI.
Nate Bek of GeekWire reported on an impressive piece of news from the Seattle-based startup, Humanly. It has increased investment dollars in AI through its Series A funding — the company said on its website (twelve million, to be exact). The company offers recruiting services to companies seeking candidates with relevant experience. A large part of the money raised will be applied to SMS chatbots to help companies with their hiring process and adhering to certain criteria. It will also be programmed for interactive exchanges supported by “AI analytics features… which run during live calls, generate insights and send follow-up emails.” (Source: GeekWire)
Why this is important for your business:
Although geared towards larger concerns with more hiring activity, platforms like Humanly are proliferating, all leveraging AI and all promising a better and more credible recruiting experience both for employers and their employee-targets. While most small businesses don’t take full advantage of these platforms yet I’m expecting to see them grow in usage as their costs decrease.
5 — The best travel VPNs to help you safely surf and stream on the go.
The results are in. ZDNet has tested the best travel VPNs to consider when you take your next trip. Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) are designed to protect personal data by hiding your public IP address and securing the network when you’re using your laptop/smartphone on the go. (Source: ZDNet)
Why this is important for your business:
If you or your employees are travelling they must access your networks through a VPN, which ensure encryption and lessens the chance of data breaches. I’d consider any on this list.
