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Another Crazy Day in AI: An Almost Daily Newsletter

Hello, AI Enthusiasts.


As Thursday night settles in and the weekend approaches, let’s catch up on the latest in the world of AI! 🌙


Google is making headlines by offering free premium features in Workspace, although there’s a slight price increase for overall plans. This move aims to help businesses of all sizes harness the power of tools like Gemini. 📈


Meanwhile, the CEO of a leading edge-to-cloud company outlines four priorities for scaling AI responsibly and sustainably, emphasizing ethics and data governance. Also, a recent study reveals how AI advancements like ChatGPT are transforming the freelance labor market, presenting both new opportunities and challenges for freelancers. 🌍


Here's another crazy day in AI:

  • Google makes AI features standard in Workspace plans

  • The four pillars of responsible AI growth

  • AI’s double-edged impact on freelancers

  • Some AI tools to try out


TODAY'S FEATURED ITEM: Is AI for Everyone? Google Thinks So


Image Credit: Wowza (created with Ideogram)

Image Credit:Wowza (created with Ideogram)


What does it mean when tech giants start making their premium AI features more accessible? Is this the beginning of AI democratization in the workplace?


Google has unveiled a major shift in how it’s integrating AI into its Workspace tools, aiming to make the power of generative AI accessible to every business. Jerry Dischler, President of Cloud Applications at Google, announced that cutting-edge AI capabilities will now be included in Workspace Business and Enterprise plans at no extra cost for most customers, significantly lowering barriers to adoption.


What’s changing with Google Workspace:

  • AI everywhere: From Gmail to Docs to Sheets, advanced AI tools are now seamlessly integrated, offering support for writing, summarizing, brainstorming, and data organization.

  • Enhanced capabilities: Features like Gemini Advanced allow users to tackle complex tasks such as coding, research synthesis, and workflow management.

  • Accessible innovation: These tools are no longer behind a paywall—they’re included in standard Workspace plans, leveling the playing field for businesses big and small.

  • Data security in focus: Built-in protections ensure that sensitive business information remains secure, meeting enterprise-grade compliance standards.

  • Reimagining productivity: The updates aren’t just about speed—they’re about unlocking new ways to work smarter and make more informed decisions.



By embedding AI into widely used platforms, Google isn’t just adding convenience—it’s changing the way businesses interact with technology. This shift is a step toward making AI a universal tool, rather than one reserved for companies with big budgets or specialized needs. It lowers the barriers to entry and invites organizations of all sizes to explore the potential of AI to improve operations, creativity, and decision-making.


But with accessibility comes responsibility. Organizations will need to balance the opportunities AI presents with the risks of over-reliance or misuse. It’s not enough to have the tools—teams must learn how to use them effectively, aligning them with their goals and workflows. There’s also a cultural adjustment as workplaces adapt to these capabilities, finding the right balance between human ingenuity and AI efficiency.


This broader availability of AI tools also highlights the competition among tech giants to redefine the workplace. As businesses increasingly rely on these technologies, the question shifts from whether to adopt AI to how to implement it in a way that genuinely enhances work without sacrificing individuality or critical thinking.


Google’s move is significant, but it’s just one piece of the puzzle in a larger shift toward AI-driven workplaces. For business leaders, this is a call to action: start exploring how these tools can complement and enhance your team's strengths. While the tools are becoming more accessible, their impact will ultimately depend on how they are used.




Read the full article here.

OTHER INTERESTING AI HIGHLIGHTS:


The Four Pillars of Responsible AI Growth

/Antonio Neri, President and CEO of Hewlett Packard Enterprise, on World Economic Forum


Artificial intelligence holds immense potential to address global challenges, but its energy-intensive processes raise concerns about environmental impact. Antonio Neri highlights four key priorities for scaling AI sustainably: ensuring AI is the right tool for the job, optimizing efficiency across its lifecycle, promoting clean energy solutions, and implementing smarter regulatory policies. By fostering collaboration among industries, governments, and innovators, these steps aim to balance AI’s transformative power with ethical and environmental responsibility.



Read more here.


AI’s Double-Edged Impact on Freelancers

/Dandan Qiao, Huaxia Rui, and Qian Xiong


A recent study explores how AI advancements, like ChatGPT, are reshaping freelance labor markets. The findings reveal two key effects: productivity boosts in web development jobs and displacement in fields like translation and localization. Researchers introduce the "inflection point conjecture," suggesting AI benefits workers initially but may replace them as capabilities improve. The study underscores the need for freelancers and platforms to adapt by collaborating with AI and exploring new opportunities in evolving markets.



Read more here.

Qiao, Dandan; Rui, Huaxia; and Xiong, Qian, "AI and Freelancers: Has the Inflection Point Arrived?" (2024).
Qiao, Dandan; Rui, Huaxia; and Xiong, Qian, "AI and Freelancers: Has the Inflection Point Arrived?" (2024).

SOME AI TOOLS TO TRY OUT:


  • FactSnap - Verify information instantly with AI while browsing the web.

  • Spreadify - Plan, schedule, and optimize content with AI for maximum reach.

  • Aneta - Boost employee engagement using AI agents for modern teams.


That’s a wrap on today’s Almost Daily craziness.


Catch us almost every day—almost! 😉

EXCITING NEWS:

The Another Crazy Day in AI newsletter is now on LinkedIn!!!



Wowza, Inc.

Leveraging AI for Enhanced Content: As part of our commitment to exploring new technologies, we used AI to help curate and refine our newsletters. This enriches our content and keeps us at the forefront of digital innovation, ensuring you stay informed with the latest trends and developments.





Another Crazy Day in AI: An Almost Daily Newsletter

Hello, AI Enthusiasts.


Midweek Check-In! How is your week going so far? 🌙 


Microsoft has just rolled out updates to Microsoft 365 Copilot Chat, allowing your entire workforce—from customer service reps to marketing leads and frontline techs—to harness the power of Copilot and AI agents effectively. 📈


In other news, Telstra and Accenture are teaming up to launch a global joint venture that will accelerate Telstra’s data and AI roadmap. Additionally, a pilot program in Nigeria, is showcasing the transformative impact of generative AI on education. 🌐


Here's another crazy day in AI:

  • Microsoft’s update on Copilot Chat

  • Global AI joint venture unites Telstra and Accenture

  • AI tutoring pilot shows remarkable results in Nigeria

  • Some AI tools to try out


TODAY'S FEATURED ITEM: Making AI Adoption Practical and Scalable


Image Credit: Wowza (created with Ideogram)

Image Credit:Wowza (created with Ideogram)


How do you empower your entire workforce with AI while keeping costs in check?


Microsoft recently announced updates to Microsoft 365 Copilot Chat, shared in a blog post by Richard Riley, General Manager of Power Platform. The announcement introduces new tools and pricing models aimed at helping organizations integrate AI more seamlessly into their operations while maintaining control over costs.


Here’s what’s new:

  • Flexible Pricing Options: Choose between pay-as-you-go ($0.01 per message) or pre-paid message packs at $200 for 25,000 messages per month.

  • Enhanced Response Types: Classic answers cost 1 message each, while generative answers, offering more dynamic responses, cost 2 messages.

  • Data-Driven Capabilities: Tenant Graph grounding integrates organizational data for richer responses at 30 messages per retrieval.

  • Automation for Complex Processes: Autonomous actions, designed for workflow automation, are priced at 25 messages per action.

  • Cost Management Tools: The Microsoft Power Platform admin center helps organizations track usage, allocate resources, and control spending.



This announcement also introduces powerful features like autonomous actions and Tenant Graph grounding, which enable businesses to build smarter, more efficient AI agents. By incorporating data from Microsoft Graph and automating workflows, organizations can streamline operations and address complex challenges.


Microsoft’s approach prioritizes transparency and usability. The clear pricing structure, paired with admin tools for monitoring and adjusting resources, allows businesses to adopt AI without the fear of unexpected expenses. Whether it’s setting up billing or assigning message capacity, the tools offer flexibility and clarity, making them accessible for organizations of any size.


At its core, this update reflects Microsoft’s commitment to empowering businesses with innovative yet practical solutions. Their goal isn’t just to offer advanced technology but to ensure it fits seamlessly into existing workflows while staying cost-effective.




Read the full article here.

Watch it on X here.

OTHER INTERESTING AI HIGHLIGHTS:


Global AI Joint Venture Unites Telstra and Accenture

/Accenture Newsroom


Telstra and Accenture have unveiled plans for a global joint venture aimed at accelerating Telstra’s data and AI roadmap, improving customer experiences, and driving operational efficiency. Leveraging Accenture’s $3 billion AI investment, the initiative will build innovative agentic AI tools and foster AI fluency across Telstra’s workforce. The proposed seven-year partnership will focus on creating resilient networks, advancing responsible AI practices, and consolidating vendor support for streamlined operations.



Read more here.


AI Tutoring Pilot Shows Remarkable Results in Nigeria

/Martín E. De Simone et al., World Bank Blogs


A pilot program in Benin City, Nigeria, has demonstrated the transformative power of generative AI in education. Students participating in a six-week intervention achieved significant improvements in English, AI knowledge, and digital skills, outperforming their peers on end-of-year exams. The program bridged gender gaps in learning and showed potential for scaling AI as a virtual tutor in developing contexts. Attendance played a critical role in maximizing benefits, with consistent engagement yielding exceptional learning gains equivalent to nearly two years of traditional education in just six weeks.



Read more here.

Martín E. De Simone et al., World Bank Blogs
Martín E. De Simone et al., World Bank Blogs

SOME AI TOOLS TO TRY OUT:


  • Fullmoon - Chat with private, offline LLMs directly on your device.

  • Reachy - Automate LinkedIn outreach to expand your network and gain customers.

  • Jumper - Instantly search video footage for specific words, scenes, or dialogue.


That’s a wrap on today’s Almost Daily craziness.


Catch us almost every day—almost! 😉

EXCITING NEWS:

The Another Crazy Day in AI newsletter is now on LinkedIn!!!



Wowza, Inc.

Leveraging AI for Enhanced Content: As part of our commitment to exploring new technologies, we used AI to help curate and refine our newsletters. This enriches our content and keeps us at the forefront of digital innovation, ensuring you stay informed with the latest trends and developments.





Another Crazy Day in AI: An Almost Daily Newsletter

Hello, AI Enthusiasts.


Wondering how AI is evolving tonight? 🌙 


OpenAI’s latest beta feature is reimagining ChatGPT as a proactive assistant that not only responds but helps you get things done. ✅


Plus, discover what five historical giants can teach us about managing risks. Yet, there’s a warning—a new study suggests relying too much on AI could hurt your critical thinking. ⚠️


Here's another crazy day in AI:

  • ChatGPT learns to plan ahead with its new feature

  • What history’s giants teach us about AI ethics

  • Why AI dependency threatens critical thinking

  • Some AI tools to try out


TODAY'S FEATURED ITEM: ChatGPT’s Latest Upgrade: Scheduled Tasks


Image Credit: Wowza (created with Ideogram)

Image Credit:Wowza (created with Ideogram)


What if your chatbot could manage your schedule?


OpenAI has rolled out a beta feature called Tasks in ChatGPT, designed to handle scheduled reminders and recurring actions. Kylie Robison, a senior AI reporter at The Verge, explores how this addition pushes ChatGPT closer to being a true digital assistant, with features reminiscent of Siri or Google Assistant but powered by ChatGPT’s advanced language capabilities.


Here’s how Tasks works and what it means for users:

  • What it does: Tasks allows users to schedule one-time or recurring actions like reminders for passport renewals, daily weather updates, or even bedtime jokes for kids.

  • How it works: Available to Plus, Team, and Pro subscribers, users can activate it via the “4o with scheduled tasks” option in the model picker. From there, you simply type what you need and when.

  • Managing tasks: Tasks can be edited or canceled through the chat interface or a dedicated section on the web. Notifications are sent once a task is completed.

  • Limitations: Users can set up to 10 active tasks at a time. For now, this feature is exclusive to paid tiers.

  • A glimpse into the future: OpenAI has plans for more robust integrations, like “Operator,” an AI agent that could independently handle advanced actions, and “Caterpillar,” which might allow deeper functionality like document navigation and online research.



ChatGPT has primarily been a real-time conversational partner, responding to prompts as they come. With Tasks, OpenAI is venturing into a realm traditionally dominated by virtual assistants, adding scheduling and task management to its capabilities. It’s a promising development, but as Robison points out, the beta stage means reliability may vary, so it’s best to experiment with non-critical uses for now.


The bigger picture, though, is about how we balance convenience with control. Tasks highlights the potential of AI to make life easier, but it also raises questions about trust and dependence. Can we count on it for time-sensitive tasks? And what happens when it falls short? These uncertainties are reminders of how much room there is for refinement as AI continues to grow into roles that impact our daily routines.


It shows how AI can evolve from responding to conversations to actively supporting your daily life — though it’s worth remembering we’re still in the early days of figuring out what that truly means.



Read the full article here.

Watch it on X here.

OTHER INTERESTING AI HIGHLIGHTS:


What History’s Giants Teach Us About AI Ethics

/Simon Rogerson, Professor Emeritus in Computer Ethics, De Montfort University on The Conversation


The evolution of artificial intelligence raises profound ethical and existential questions, but history offers lessons from visionaries like Ada Lovelace, Alan Turing, and Norbert Wiener. Their insights on the limitations, potential, and risks of intelligent systems remain relevant in addressing today’s challenges. From Lovelace’s early warnings on overestimating machine potential to Turing’s optimism tempered by caution, these historical perspectives call for thoughtful regulation and collaborative research to mitigate risks and harness AI responsibly.



Read more here.


Why AI Dependency Threatens Critical Thinking

/Dana Daher, Practice Leader, HFS Research on LinkedIn


A new study reveals the cognitive costs of over-reliance on AI tools, highlighting a troubling decline in critical thinking skills among heavy users. Conducted with 666 participants, the research found that frequent AI usage correlates with increased cognitive offloading and diminished mental engagement, especially among younger professionals. While higher education offers some resistance, it’s clear that unchecked AI dependency poses risks to human cognitive capital. Educators and policymakers are urged to implement strategies that foster critical thinking alongside AI adoption.



Read more here.

Read the paper here.

Gerlich, M. AI Tools in Society: Impacts on Cognitive Offloading and the Future of Critical Thinking. Societies 2025, 15, 6. https:// doi.org/10.3390/soc15010006
Gerlich, M. AI Tools in Society: Impacts on Cognitive Offloading and the Future of Critical Thinking. Societies 2025, 15, 6. https:// doi.org/10.3390/soc15010006

SOME AI TOOLS TO TRY OUT:


  • PlayDialog - Transform text into expressive voiceovers for audiobooks, podcasts, and videos.

  • Asendia AI - Personalized interviews tailored to your style for faster, smarter prep.

  • Retape - Use AI to craft personalized demo videos.


That’s a wrap on today’s Almost Daily craziness.


Catch us almost every day—almost! 😉

EXCITING NEWS:

The Another Crazy Day in AI newsletter is now on LinkedIn!!!



Wowza, Inc.

Leveraging AI for Enhanced Content: As part of our commitment to exploring new technologies, we used AI to help curate and refine our newsletters. This enriches our content and keeps us at the forefront of digital innovation, ensuring you stay informed with the latest trends and developments.





Copyright Wowza, inc 2025
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