In the tech world this week, there were several significant developments with implications for businesses. Apple announced plans for the release of iOS 18 at the Worldwide Developer Conference in June. This new on-device AI-powered system will provide iPhones with a major performance upgrade, without the need for a connection to a cloud server. The upgrade will enhance applications like Siri and Apple Music, with a focus on privacy issues. Reports indicate that iOS 18 will be released in September 2024, with the conference set to take place online from June 10 to 14.
In another incident, LastPass was targeted by scammers using deepfake audio technology to impersonate the CEO in an attempt to coerce an employee. The employee quickly identified the scam and reported it, with no damages incurred. This incident highlights the growing threat of deepfake scams and the importance of training employees to recognize and report such attempts to protect a company’s data and assets.
NASA’s Mars Sample Return mission is undergoing a significant overhaul, with plans to make the $11 billion endeavor more affordable and efficient. The mission, originally slated for completion in 15 years, will be reworked to have a shorter timeline and lower costs. This adjustment presents an opportunity for space startups and companies to propose their own plans and play a role in the mission’s future development.
CRM software company Zendesk has announced new AI features to enhance customer service interactions. The “Zendesk AI” tool will provide faster and more personalized experiences by deploying AI agents that can handle complex customer interactions autonomously. This will streamline problem-solving tasks, learn from company policies, and cater to unique customer needs while automating routine tasks like sending personalized emails.
Squarespace has introduced new subscription features to help entrepreneurs generate recurring revenue. These features allow users to create blog paywalls, offer paid access to videos, and bundle products like ebooks at specific price points. This development enables entrepreneurs to monetize their content more easily and provide additional value to their audience through subscription-based services.
Overall, these tech updates highlight the continued evolution of technology in enhancing business operations, customer interactions, and revenue streams. By staying informed and leveraging these new features and advancements, businesses can stay ahead of the curve and meet the changing needs of their customers and markets.
