TECHNOLOGY UPDATE - 9/26/2024
Dan Lausted
A technology strategist focused on creating innovative solutions that drive revenue growth and customer satisfaction!
It's been a few weeks and wanted to provide the latest tech news as we see it, so, let's dive In!?
In the world of Public Cloud, we have exciting news from Microsoft Azure, AWS, and Google Cloud Platform. Microsoft is focusing on modernizing Azure compute, while Oracle expands its multicloud capabilities with AWS, Google Cloud, and Azure. Google Cloud faced a critical flaw, but swift action was taken to patch vulnerabilities.?
In AI and Generative AI, Microsoft is piloting new features for its 365 software suite, while AWS strengthens its partnership with tech startups. Google introduces Gemini, its suite of generative AI models, while OpenAI considers transitioning to a for-profit company.?
In the Modern Work, Microsoft revamps its M365 Copilot chatbot, and Google Workspace users can now enjoy enhanced productivity features in Chrome. Google integrates Gemini AI chat app into Workspace, boosting productivity for enterprise users.?
Lastly, in Future Tech, we explore the concept of "thinking backward" to embrace the future, emphasizing the integration of old habits and methodologies to drive innovation.?
What's old can be new again!
That's all for this tech news update. Let's get to work!
#AWS #Azure #GCP #Cloud #Modern Work #AI #Microsoft #Google
Public Cloud
All things related to Microsoft Azure, AWS and GCP
Microsoft
All things Azure
From Core to Containers to Orchestration: Modernizing Your Azure Compute
The article discusses how the evolution of cloud technologies, such as containers and microservices, has impacted Microsoft's Azure cloud platform. Microsoft Azure has expanded its services beyond Platform-as-a-Service (PaaS) to offer various compute options, requiring users to make informed decisions based on factors like scalability, availability, and cost. Cloud architect Mike Benkovich will be sharing insights on modernizing compute in Azure at the Live! 360 developer/IT conference, focusing on topics like building microservices with .NET, containerization, and Azure compute options. Attendees are encouraged to stay updated on Azure's evolving compute services through official documentation, blogs, and community resources to prepare for the session.
Oracle Expands Multicloud Capabilities with AWS, Google Cloud, and Microsoft Azure
Oracle has announced an expansion of its multicloud capabilities by collaborating with AWS, Google Cloud, and Microsoft Azure to offer Oracle Database services running on Oracle Cloud Infrastructure directly in their data centers. This collaboration aims to help customers accelerate application migrations and modernizations. The new offerings, such as Oracle Database@AWS, Oracle Database@Azure, and Oracle Database@Google Cloud, provide customers with access to Oracle Database services on OCI deployed in AWS, Google Cloud, and Microsoft Azure data centers, respectively. Oracle's senior vice president of Oracle Cloud Infrastructure, Karan Batta, highlighted the partnership's focus on simplifying cloud migration, multicloud deployment, and management to provide customers with flexibility in utilizing multiple cloud services.
GCP
All things Google Cloud Platform
A Critical Flaw Exposing Google Cloud Servers
A critical security flaw, dubbed "CloudImposer," was discovered by researchers at Tenable, potentially exposing millions of Google Cloud Platform (GCP) servers to remote code execution attacks through a dependency confusion vulnerability. This flaw could have enabled a sprawling supply chain attack via a malicious Python code package, affecting widely-used GCP services like App Engine and Cloud Function. Tenable's findings prompted Google to promptly patch the vulnerability, emphasizing the urgent need for robust security practices in cloud environments to prevent such exploits. The discovery underscores the importance of continuous vigilance, technical understanding, and swift remediation of vulnerabilities in securing cloud platforms against cyber threats.
Google GCP Flaw Fixed After Composer Vulnerability Found
Google has fixed a critical security flaw in its Google Cloud Platform Composer tool, dubbed CloudImposer, which could have allowed attackers to achieve remote execution on Google's cloud servers. Tenable Research discovered a remote code execution vulnerability in the Google Cloud Platform that could have enabled attackers to compromise the Cloud Composer service. Google addressed the issue by ensuring that the Python Package is only installed from a private repository, and there is no evidence that the vulnerability was ever exploited. The impact of a single malicious package deployed within Google Cloud's Composer could have been significant, potentially compromising millions of users across numerous organizations.
AWS
Everything AWS
Top 10 Biggest Cloud Providers in the World in 2024
https://www.analyticsinsight.net/cloud-computing/top-10-biggest-cloud-providers-in-the-world-in-2024
In 2024, cloud computing is a critical component of modern IT infrastructure, with businesses relying on cloud service providers (CSPs) for storage, compute power, and networking services. The top 10 cloud providers shaping the industry include Amazon Web Services (AWS) leading in Infrastructure-as-a-Service (IaaS), Microsoft Azure excelling in hybrid cloud solutions, Google Cloud Platform (GCP) specializing in AI and ML, Alibaba Cloud dominating in Asia, and IBM Cloud focusing on multi-cloud and hybrid cloud environments. Other key players include DigitalOcean Cloud for SMBs and developers, Salesforce Cloud for SaaS solutions, Tencent Cloud in Asia, Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI) for database expertise, and Huawei Cloud expanding globally with a range of cloud services.
Commvault acquires AWS data protection startup Clumio
Commvault Systems Inc. has announced its acquisition of Clumio Inc., a startup specializing in data protection for public cloud environments, particularly Amazon Web Services (AWS). The financial terms of the deal were not disclosed, but Commvault plans to fund the acquisition with available cash. Clumio's platform offers features such as S3 Direct Access for faster data restoration and specific file recovery options, catering to AWS and Microsoft 365 environments. This acquisition will enhance Commvault's data protection portfolio, complementing its existing offerings for AWS and Microsoft 365, and is expected to positively impact the company's revenue and cash flow.
AI / AGI / GenAI
All Things AI
Microsoft
All things Microsoft AI
Microsoft just punted on a big AI decision. It could be a bad sign.
Microsoft has decided to delay a major AI overhaul of its 365 software suite, which was being considered earlier this summer. The company's Copilot AI tools were central to these deliberations. Instead of implementing immediate changes, Microsoft has opted to conduct pilot tests in select regions to gauge customer willingness to pay for new AI features. This cautious approach may indicate doubts about the potential of these tools to drive license purchases and generate value for customers.
Will potential security gaps derail Microsoft’s Copilot?
The article discusses potential security concerns surrounding Microsoft's Copilot, a generative AI assistant integrated into Microsoft 365. Despite Microsoft's optimism about Copilot's productivity gains, researchers and analysts have highlighted security risks, particularly for enterprises using it with Microsoft 365. Concerns include data access permissions, security gaps in Copilot's configuration settings, and the potential for prompt injection attacks leading to data breaches. Some companies are reportedly hesitant to adopt Copilot due to these security issues, prompting the need for Microsoft to address these concerns swiftly to maintain its position as a leader in AI technology.
AWS
All things AI with Amazon.
AWS strengthens GenAI partnership with Indian tech startups
领英推荐
Amazon Web Services (AWS) is strengthening its partnership with Indian tech startups by offering GenAI solutions and services to enhance productivity and customer experience metrics. AWS has a history of supporting generative AI startups in India and has collaborated with Accel to launch the ML Elevate 2023 accelerator program. The company has also launched the AWS GenAI Loft in Bengaluru to provide startups and developers with hands-on access to AI products and services, aiming to help them understand advanced techniques and stay updated on the latest trends in generative AI technology.
BT Group Leverages AWS Capabilities to Launch GenAI Gateway
BT Group's Digital Unit has introduced the GenAI Gateway, an internal platform enabling the utilization of large language models (LLMs) from various providers like Anthropic, Meta, Claude, Cohere, and Amazon. Developed in collaboration with AWS, the platform leverages Amazon Bedrock, Amazon SageMaker, and AWS Professional Services to offer secure access to natural-language processing and LLMs. This initiative allows BT Group to incorporate AI into its operations efficiently, ensuring flexibility and scalability while enhancing productivity and simplifying processes for its teams and customers.
All things Google AI
Google Gemini: Everything you need to know about the generative AI models
Google has introduced Gemini, its suite of generative AI models, apps, and services, developed by Google's AI research labs DeepMind and Google Research. Gemini comes in four versions: Ultra, Pro, Flash, and Nano. These models are trained to be multimodal, capable of working with and analyzing various types of data beyond text. Gemini offers advanced features like Gemini Advanced for Google Workspace apps and Gemini Live for in-depth voice chats. Pricing for Gemini models varies based on usage, and Google is exploring the possibility of bringing Gemini to the iPhone in the future.
Google Expands Gemini AI Security and Contact Center Offerings
The article appears to be a registration page for TechRepublic, a platform offering business technology news, tutorials, reviews, trends, and analysis. Users are prompted to create an account by providing basic information such as email, password, country, first name, last name, job title, company name, company size, and industry. Additionally, users are given the option to subscribe to various newsletters for more TechRepublic news.
OpenAI
All things ChatGPT
OpenAI could be a for-profit company next year
OpenAI, a company known for its AI models like GPT, is considering transitioning to a for-profit structure after relying on donations for nearly a decade. The move comes as the company aims to scale its research efforts beyond what donations can support. While OpenAI plans to maintain its non-profit core, the shift to for-profit status may bring internal changes and continued investor involvement.
OpenAI could triple the available voices for ChatGPT
OpenAI is working on expanding the voices available for ChatGPT, potentially tripling the current selection. The company aims to enhance the realism of AI voices, with plans to introduce new voices such as Fathom, Glimmer, and others. These voices may have improved expressiveness and the ability to emulate animal sounds, though the official release date and availability details are yet to be confirmed.
Modern Workplace
Everything you need to get work done, wherever you arel
Microsoft
All things Microsoft productivity.
Microsoft 365 explained: Office 365, rebranded and expanded
The article provides an overview of Microsoft 365, which has evolved from an enterprise subscription combining Windows, Office apps, and management tools to a comprehensive productivity suite. Microsoft 365 includes various apps and features like Lists, Loop, and Viva apps, along with Copilot, a generative AI assistant. The article discusses the different versions of Microsoft 365 available for enterprise, small business, education, government, and consumer markets, highlighting the diverse licensing options and add-ons. Additionally, it touches on Microsoft's focus on expanding M365 features, potential future developments, and the competitive landscape in the productivity software market.
Microsoft revamps M365 Copilot chatbot with Pages shared ‘canvas’
Microsoft has introduced new features to its generative AI tool, M365 Copilot, for business users, including Copilot Pages for collaborative document creation in Excel, Word, Outlook, and Teams. Copilot Pages enable users to store and share information generated by the AI assistant in a persistent canvas accessible within Copilot's Business Chat interface. Additionally, updates in various M365 apps like Excel and Outlook enhance the assistant's capabilities, such as data analysis using Python, prioritizing emails, creating presentations with branded templates, and comparing documents in OneDrive. Microsoft aims to improve the Copilot experience and drive adoption through these enhancements, offering collaborative and individual productivity features.
Google Workspace
All things Google productivity
Google Workspace users get this new productivity boost in Chrome
Google has introduced a new productivity feature for Google Workspace users in Chrome, aimed at enhancing accessibility and tab management. The feature includes a daily calendar view within Chrome tabs, providing easy access to upcoming meetings and schedules. This update benefits users by optimizing workflow and keeping important events visible on the tabs page, with the feature currently available for managed users under Chrome Enterprise accounts.
Google brings Gemini AI chat app to Workspace, boosting productivity for millions of enterprise users
Google is integrating its Gemini chatbot into its Google Workspace productivity suite, providing enterprise users with AI-powered assistance while ensuring data security and compliance. The Gemini app will be available to Workspace users in Business, Enterprise, and Frontline plans, offering features such as answering questions and suggesting actions based on organizational policies. Additionally, Google introduced new security insights and certifications for Gemini, aiming to enhance data protection and threat prevention for Workspace customers. The integration of generative AI features like Gemini aims to improve the quality of work for users, with a survey showing positive impacts on productivity and time savings.
Future Tech
All things to consider
The future of technology
What should we be thinking about. Trends for the future.
Thinking Backward to Embrace the Future
The article discusses the concept of "thinking backward" in the context of technological progress, emphasizing the importance of integrating old habits and methodologies to drive future innovation. Large language models (LLMs) are highlighted as tools that can bridge the gap between past and future by synthesizing information across time and domains. The author suggests that leveraging LLMs to revisit and enhance established practices, such as industrial methodologies and elderly habits, can lead to more adaptive and sustainable solutions that honor the wisdom of the past while propelling progress. The article encourages embracing a future that combines tradition with innovation, facilitated by the unique capabilities of LLMs to create a seamless continuity between past and present.
Read the full newsletter here: Cloud, AI & Modern Work - News
AI consultant and advisor | AI business integration expert | Helping companies match AI/ML tech with business requirements
2 个月Excellent recap highlighting key trends. Thought-provoking perspective on embracing old habits.
Exciting news. Innovative mindsets ignite progress amidst challenges.