Another Crazy Day in AI: Copilot transforms Microsoft 365

Hello, AI Enthusiasts.

Now that the first workday of the week is behind us, it’s the perfect time to relax with some intriguing AI news.

Tonight, we’re featuring Microsoft’s unveiling of its “Copilot Wave 2” updates, which integrate advanced AI features into Microsoft 365 applications like Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.

Also, discover how OpenAI has resolved the issue of ChatGPT messaging users unprompted and delve into the ongoing concerns of college students regarding AI policies.

Have a relaxing evening with these intriguing updates!

Here's another crazy day in AI:

• New AI features in Microsoft 365 you should know about

• ChatGPT’s glitch fixed after unsolicited messages

• Survey finds ambiguity in college AI policies

• Some AI tools to try out

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TODAY'S FEATURED ITEM: Copilot’s AI Boost in Microsoft 365

Image Credit: Microsoft

How are companies like Microsoft transforming workplace productivity with AI, and what does that mean for the future of work?

In his article for Yahoo Finance, Technology Editor Daniel Howley explores Microsoft’s ongoing push to embed AI into its Microsoft 365 suite through its latest “Copilot Wave 2” rollout. These updates bring AI-powered features to well-known tools like PowerPoint, Outlook, and Excel, designed to enhance productivity and ease routine tasks. The advancements reflect Microsoft’s larger strategy to stay ahead in the AI space, competing with major players like Google and Salesforce, while helping businesses work smarter with the power of AI.

Let's break down the key developments:

• Microsoft has expanded AI functionality in its 365 apps, adding tools like PowerPoint Copilot for drafting presentations and email management features in Outlook.

• The introduction of Copilot Pages allows teams to collaboratively manage and edit data in real time, improving efficiency.

• The agent builder in Copilot Studio lets users create custom AI assistants tailored to their organization’s specific needs, without needing extensive technical expertise.

• Copilot’s user base continues to grow, with companies like Vodafone reporting significant time savings for employees who use the software regularly.

• Microsoft’s broader goal is to integrate AI across all its business products, helping companies improve workflows and increase productivity.

Microsoft’s newest tools represent a shift in how we approach productivity—no longer about just getting tasks done, but about doing them better and more efficiently. These updates aren’t revolutionary on their own, but together they offer teams the opportunity to streamline workflows and collaborate more seamlessly. As businesses continue to adapt to new ways of working, tools like these will play a key role in helping professionals stay focused on what really matters.

Looking ahead, it's clear that the nature of work is evolving rapidly. While new technologies offer powerful capabilities, they also bring challenges and questions. How will we maintain the human touch in an increasingly digital workplace? What new skills will become essential?

As we embrace these changes, it's important to approach them with both optimism and critical thinking. After all, the goal isn't just to work faster, but to work better – in ways that are fulfilling, sustainable, and beneficial for all.

Read the full article here.

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OTHER INTERESTING AI HIGHLIGHTS:

ChatGPT’s glitch fixed after unsolicited messages

/Victor Tangermann on Futurism

A Reddit post raised concerns when ChatGPT appeared to initiate messages on its own, asking users about their personal experiences without being prompted. OpenAI has clarified that this was due to a glitch in the chatbot’s system, which has now been resolved. The company reassured users that the issue was unintentional and related to errors in message delivery.

Read more here.

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Survey finds ambiguity in college AI policies

/Ashley Mowreader on Inside Higher Ed

A recent survey indicates that many college students are confused about when and how to use AI tools in their coursework. With a large number of institutions yet to establish clear AI policies, students often depend on individual faculty guidance. Education experts emphasize the need for transparent, institution-wide AI usage guidelines and enhanced faculty training.

Read more here.

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SOME AI TOOLS TO TRY OUT:

• AFFiNE AI - assists with writing, drawing, and creating presentations

• Infography - turns blog posts into interactive infographics

• Solvr - provides answers from screenshots, PDFs, or highlighted text without switching tabs

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

Catch us almost every day—almost! 😉

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EXCITING NEWS:

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

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: Strawberry and complex reasoning

Hello, AI Enthusiasts.

It’s Thursday night, and with the weekend just around the corner, we’ve got some fascinating updates to share.

OpenAI’s latest model is turning heads with its ability to work through complex problems before presenting a solution. Plus, a recent survey reveals that 75% of companies are now using marketing technology and generative AI. And in a significant move, AI leaders are gathering at the White House to address energy challenges.

Hope you enjoy the read!

Here's another crazy day in AI:

• A closer look at OpenAI’s next-gen reasoning

• Survey shows 75% of companies now use marketing tech and gen AI

• AI leaders meet at the White House to address energy concerns

• Some AI tools to try out

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TODAY'S FEATURED ITEM: Strawberry: A new approach to AI reasoning

Source: OpenAI | Introducing OpenAI o1

What if computers could think through problems step-by-step, just like we do? How might this reshape our approach to complex challenges?

OpenAI has just unveiled o1, a groundbreaking AI model that does exactly that. It's not just faster or more powerful – it's fundamentally different in how it approaches problems. Unlike previous models, o1-preview can “think through” complex problems before producing a solution. This new capability allows the AI to handle intricate tasks like advanced physics and long-term planning, something traditional models have struggled with.

Ethan Mollick, known for his insightful "One Useful Thing" blog, reflects on his early access to this new system, codenamed “Strawberry.” Mollick shares his personal experiences with the model, showcasing its strengths in problem-solving while also discussing its limitations. He compares it to other well-known AI systems and considers the potential impact of this shift on how humans work alongside increasingly independent AI systems.

What you should know:

• o1 doesn't just process data; it reasons through problems, considering multiple angles before settling on an answer.

• In tests, it outperformed human experts on intricate physics problems – a feat that was once thought to be years away.

• While it excels in tasks requiring careful planning, it's not universally superior. For instance, its writing skills haven't surpassed previous models.

• The model showed impressive results in solving complex puzzles like crosswords, demonstrating an ability to try, discard, and refine ideas.

• Despite its advancements, o1 isn't infallible. It can still make mistakes or generate inaccurate information.

• This leap in AI capability is prompting a reevaluation of how humans and machines can collaborate most effectively.

The arrival of o1 feels a bit like welcoming a new colleague – one with some impressive skills that complement our own. It's pushing us to reconsider how we tackle complex problems and what it means to be innovative.

As AI starts to "think" more like us, we might find ourselves shifting roles. Instead of just giving instructions, we could become guides, helping these systems navigate the nuances of real-world challenges. It's an adjustment, for sure, but one that could open up exciting new possibilities.

This development also nudges us to reflect on our own unique strengths. Our ability to think creatively, to understand context, and to make ethical judgments – these human traits become even more valuable as AI evolves.

There's still a lot to figure out. How do we ensure these AI systems align with our values? How might our education and work environments need to adapt? These are questions we'll need to grapple with as we move forward.

Read Ethan Mollick's insights here.

Check out OpenAI's announcement.

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OTHER INTERESTING AI HIGHLIGHTS:

Survey shows 75% of companies now use marketing tech and gen AI

/Muhammad Zulhusni, Marketing Tech News

A survey from Duke University reveals that 75% of marketing leaders now use marketing technologies (martech), though companies leverage only about 56% of the tools they purchase. Despite the potential, the benefits of martech lag behind expectations. Generative AI, although still in its early stages, has already boosted productivity and customer satisfaction. However, challenges remain, including managing AI bias and balancing marketing budgets. The report predicts marketing spending will grow in the next year, while the role of social media and digital marketing continues to rise.

Read more here.

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AI leaders meet at the White House to address energy concerns

/Matt Egan, CNN

In a critical meeting at the White House, Sam Altman (CEO of OpenAI), Ruth Porat (Google), and Dario Amodei (Anthropic) are set to discuss the rising energy demands driven by AI. AI's power consumption is rapidly increasing, with forecasts of a significant surge in data center energy use by 2030. The meeting aims to explore solutions for building sustainable AI infrastructure to prevent a strain on the US power grid while maintaining US leadership in AI innovation. Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm and Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo are among the officials attending.

Read more here.

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SOME AI TOOLS TO TRY OUT:

• Scripe - converts voice, video, and text into customized linkedin posts

• Verse - build interactive landing pages and more from your mobile device

• Effie - speeds up writing with outlining and mind-mapping tools

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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!!!

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: Apple’s latest lineup and major tech upgrades

Hello, AI Enthusiasts.

It's Wednesday night, and as we hit the midweek mark, it’s the perfect time to relax and catch up on the latest tech news. Apple’s recent product event has stirred up excitement with their 2024 announcements. Check out our featured article for a detailed look at what was announced this Monday.

In addition, discover a new book discussing the societal impact of AI and the urgent need for regulatory measures. And don’t miss out on how how Salesforce is advancing healthcare with their new pre-built AI tools.

Ready for some insightful reading?

Here's another crazy day in AI:

• What you need to know about Apple’s new devices

• A new book on AI’s societal impact and the need for regulation

• New pre-built AI tools from Salesforce for Healthcare

• Some AI tools to try out

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TODAY'S FEATURED ITEM: Everything you missed at Apple’s latest event

Source: Apple 2024 Event

Is it time to upgrade? Here's what Apple just announced

Apple on Monday unveiled its latest lineup of products, including the iPhone 16, AirPods 4, and Apple Watch 10 — leaving tech enthusiasts buzzing. For users who’ve held off upgrading due to the incremental changes in recent releases, this could be the moment to reconsider.

Here's a quick rundown of what's new:

• iPhone 16: Embracing AI with a new camera control button and enhanced Siri

• iPhone 16 Pro: Bigger screens and advanced video capabilities

• AirPods 4: Comfort-focused design with noise cancellation options

• Apple Watch 10: Slimmer profile with expanded health monitoring features

CNN's Clare Duffy, Samantha Murphy Kelly, and Samantha Delouya have given us a comprehensive look at these fresh offerings, shedding light on Apple's strategy to reignite consumer interest and drive upgrades.

Now, for those interested in the nitty-gritty details:

1. iPhone 16

   • Designed with generative AI at its core

   • New side button for "visual intelligence" features

   • Smarter Siri that understands message context

   • Refreshed color options and two size choices

   • Beefed-up processor and more durable screen

   • Priced from $799, holding steady with previous models

2. iPhone 16 Pro

   • Expanded screens at 6.3" and 6.9"

   • Claims the longest-lasting iPhone battery to date

   • Supports 4K/120fps video with post-shot slow-motion

   • Pro starts at $999, Pro Max at $1,199

3. AirPods 4

   • New design aims for improved comfort

   • Active noise cancellation now included

   • Potential hearing aid functionality (pending approvals)

   • Standard version at $129, noise-cancelling at $179

4. Apple Watch 10

   • Slimmest model yet, featuring the largest screen

   • New sleep apnea detection (awaiting regulatory green light)

   • Faster charging and improved water resistance

   • Starting price of $399

Apple's latest offerings seem to be zeroing in on three main areas: artificial intelligence, health and wellness, and overall user experience enhancement. The iPhone 16’s AI-powered capabilities are perhaps the biggest draw. With its intuitive camera controls and Siri upgrades, Apple is positioning this model as a must-have for those who rely on their phone for more than just basic functions. The AirPods and Apple Watch have also seen thoughtful improvements in health monitoring. However, for those with recent models, these updates might not be compelling enough for an immediate upgrade.

These updates reflect Apple's ongoing commitment to innovation, but they also raise important questions about the role of technology in our lives. As our devices become more capable and integrated into our daily routines, how will this shape our interactions with the world around us? And in an era of increasing environmental awareness, how does the push for regular upgrades align with sustainability goals?

Will Apple's 2024 lineup trigger the major upgrade cycle they're hoping for? Only time will tell. What's certain is that these new products offer a glimpse into a future of personal technology that's smarter, more health-conscious, and increasingly interconnected.

For more details, read the full article here or watch Apple's 2024 Event.

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OTHER INTERESTING AI HIGHLIGHTS:

A new book on AI’s societal impact and the need for regulation

/David A. Teich, Senior Contributor, Forbes

Taming Silicon Valley by Gary Marcus, published by The MIT Press, is a refreshing take on AI’s real-world implications. Unlike many business-oriented books, this one doesn’t shy away from addressing the dangers of AI—job displacement, environmental impact, and political influence. Marcus provides a thorough exploration of AI’s risks, focusing on the need for government regulations to prevent tech monopolies from undermining society. This accessible book urges policymakers to act swiftly in curbing AI's unchecked power before it’s too late.

Read more here.

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New pre-built AI tools from Salesforce for Healthcare

/Andrea Fox, Senior Editor, Healthcare IT News

Salesforce is set to release generative AI tools for healthcare providers via its Health Cloud platform. These tools aim to streamline administrative tasks like patient data summaries, referrals, and insurance validation. With new capabilities built into its Einstein AI Copilot, healthcare organizations can optimize clinician workflows, ensuring more efficient care delivery. The out-of-the-box features will be available by October, with pricing based on implementation needs. Salesforce positions these tools as crucial for organizations that lack the time or resources to develop AI models in-house.

Read more here.

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SOME AI TOOLS TO TRY OUT:

• Hoop - consolidates tasks from Slack, email, and meetings into a single to-do list

• UnaPod - save and summarize news for later reading or listening with AI

• Rainbow Weather - get precise rain forecasts and weather alerts with AI

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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!!!

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.