Category: Technology

  • From civil servants to college students, Indians are getting trained in AI tools for work and life – CRN

    From civil servants to college students, Indians are getting trained in AI tools for work and life – CRN

    As AI tools make their way into the workplace, they have the potential to create new opportunities for workers everywhere. But only if people know how to take advantage of them.

    Over the next five years, Microsoft will partner with ministries, state governments and NGOs to train ten million Indians in AI skills under its ADVANTA(I)GE INDIA initiative – fuelling productivity and opening doors to jobs.

    The initiative builds on a previous program of the same name that has skilled 2.4 million Indians, from civil servants to college students to people with disabilities.

    “Our aim is to not only enhance employability but also bridge the digital divide and create a more inclusive future for every Indian,” said Puneet Chandok, president of Microsoft India and South India.

    Those involved in the program say that as the use of AI tools spreads across the workforce, those who don’t learn how to use them risk falling behind.

    Neha Jain is an Indian Administrative Service Officer who is currently Special Secretary, IT & Electronics, Government of Uttar Pradesh, where government officers are undergoing AI training. “Once upon a time, humans discovered fire and were afraid of it. But then we learned to channelize it and put it to good use,” Jain said. “Similarly, [AI] needs to be used wisely for the benefit of humanity, rather than letting us be devoured by it.”

  • AI and Machine Learning Revolutionize API Management Systems

    API infrastructure

    In today’s fast-paced technological landscape, artificial intelligence and machine learning are revolutionizing how organizations manage their API infrastructure. Vaibhav Haribhau Khedkar, a technology expert based in the USA, has conducted extensive research revealing how these innovations are enabling unprecedented capabilities in automation, security, and system optimization, fundamentally transforming the way businesses handle their digital interfaces.
    The Dawn of Intelligent API Systems

    The integration of AI and ML technologies into API management has ushered in unprecedented capabilities in handling complex digital infrastructures. Modern API systems now employ sophisticated machine learning algorithms to automate routine tasks, predict potential issues, and optimize performance in real-time. This transformation has led to remarkable improvements, with organizations reporting up to 60% reduction in manual intervention and a 35% increase in developer productivity.

    Security Gets Smarter

    One of the most significant innovations is the implementation of AI-driven security measures. Advanced machine learning models now provide real-time threat detection, instantly identifying suspicious patterns and potential security breaches. These systems continuously evolve their security protocols based on new threat intelligence, while automated security testing frameworks adapt their strategies to counter emerging threats. This proactive approach has resulted in a 45% improvement in security incident response times.

    Predictive Power Transforms Operations

    The application of predictive analytics has revolutionized API optimization and maintenance. Machine learning algorithms analyze historical usage patterns to forecast future API demand and performance requirements. These systems can predict potential bottlenecks and resource constraints before they impact service quality, enabling proactive resource allocation and performance optimization. This predictive capability has led to a 40% improvement in resource utilization across cloud services.

    Smart Discovery and Consumption

    Modern API discovery mechanisms have evolved beyond simple keyword matching. Semantic search implementations now understand developer intent, incorporating context and historical usage patterns to improve search relevance. AI-powered recommendation systems analyze developer behavior and project requirements to suggest relevant APIs and integration patterns, significantly streamlining the development process.

    The Future of API Management

    The research identifies several emerging trends that promise to further revolutionize API management. Self-healing APIs represent one of the most promising advancements, with early implementations showing a 47% reduction in recovery time and a 62% improvement in system reliability. Additionally, autonomous API operations are evolving toward fully self-managing systems that can independently optimize performance parameters and adjust security protocols based on real-time conditions.

    Cross-platform intelligence plays a pivotal role in ensuring APIs deliver consistent performance and unified insights across varied platforms. By adopting cross-platform analytics, organizations have achieved a 56% boost in resource utilization and reduced integration challenges by 43%, streamlining operations effectively.

    Quality Assurance and Continuous Evolution

    The transformation extends to quality assurance practices, where AI-driven systems continuously monitor and validate API performance across multiple dimensions. These systems provide real-time visibility into system health, tracking traditional API metrics and AI model performance, while supporting operational decision-making and long-term strategic planning.

    Bridging Present and Future

    Integrating AI and ML in API management marks a pivotal moment in digital transformation, representing far more than technological advancement. It fundamentally reshapes how organizations approach digital infrastructure, enabling sophisticated automation, enhanced security protocols, and intelligent optimization. This evolution paves the way for groundbreaking innovations in quantum computing and edge AI applications, while setting new standards for operational excellence and competitive advantage in the digital ecosystem.

    In conclusion, Vaibhav Haribhau Khedkar’s research illuminates how AI-driven API management represents a transformative leap in digital infrastructure. Organizations that embrace these innovations while focusing on continuous improvement will not only enhance their operational efficiency but also gain a competitive edge in the rapidly evolving digital landscape. This technological evolution promises to reshape how businesses approach API management in the years ahead.

  • Dell Technologies leads AI PC movement with new, redesigned PC portfolio – CRN

    Dell Technologies leads AI PC movement with new, redesigned PC portfolio – CRN

    Dell Technologies builds on decades of PC innovation with a new, simplified portfolio featuring on-device AI for greater end-user creativity and productivity. To accelerate AI PC adoption across enterprises, Dell also provides developers and IT administrators with the tools to seamlessly build and deploy AI applications to Dell AI PCs. 

    As one of the prominent providers of commercial AI PCs, Dell expands its portfolio with new product designs, increased performance and battery life, the latest silicon innovation and AI accelerators, and industry-leading capabilities across software, management, and sustainability. Dell has unified its brand across PCs, displays, services, and accessories to make it even easier for customers to find the right technology solutions they need today and in the future.  

    “The PC is the most important personal productivity device of our lifetime and it is being transformed by AI. Dell has driven PC innovation for the last 40 years and we are well positioned for this moment. Our new, streamlined portfolio of AI PCs is here to deliver the future of computing,” said Michael Dell, Chairman and CEO, Dell Technologies. 

    Unified brand and simplified choices make technology decisions easy

    Buying a PC can be a complex experience, with multiple factors to consider – brands, models, form factors, performance, graphics, storage, and materials. In fact, 74 percent of consumers walked away from technology purchases simply because they felt overwhelmed.

    Dell’s new branding puts the highly trusted Dell name front and center with three PC categories:

    • Dell: Designed for play, school, and work.  
    • Dell Pro: Designed for professional-grade productivity.  
    • Dell Pro Max: Designed for maximum performance. 

    The Dell and Dell Pro product lines extend to displays, accessories, and services for a consistent customer experience across the entire client portfolio. 

    “Dell’s strategy to shift to simple, descriptive naming across its PC, ecosystem solutions, and services portfolio brings significant value to customers amidst a complex and evolving AI PC landscape,” said Pat Moorhead, President, Moor Insights & Strategy. 

    “Alongside new silicon options from AMD, in addition to Intel and Qualcomm, and new PC designs, Dell is well positioned to offer choice and help organizations futureproof for the AI era,” he added.

    Dell accelerates AI PC adoption with Dell Pro AI Studio

    Businesses want to use AI models trained on their data to address specific needs and run them locally on AI PCs for better efficiency. However, building and managing these models is challenging because hardware requirements differ across silicon vendors and CPUs, GPUs, and NPUs.

    Dell is making AI development on PCs easy with the Dell Pro AI Studio, the industry’s most comprehensive AI toolkit leveraging NPU technology. With Dell-validated tools, frameworks, templates, and models, developers and IT administrators can build and manage AI software with simplicity and speed, regardless of the underlying silicon. This is expected to reduce development and deployment time by as much as 75 percent, going from six months to as little as six weeks. 

    Dell Pro AI Studio, part of the Dell AI Factory, is another example of how Dell helps enterprises right-size, implement, and scale AI across various environments – from PCs to data centers. The Dell AI Factory gives customers access to the industry’s broadest AI portfolio and an open ecosystem of technology partners to create AI applications that meet their unique needs, budgets, and power requirements.

  • Announcing the next Galaxy Unpacked event – Watch the livestream on January 22nd

    It’s coming – the next Samsung Galaxy Unpacked event, that is. Be among the very first to see all of the the latest from Samsung, when the newest innovations are unveiled at the live-streamed event on January 22nd.

    Add a reminder for the event with the link below, and be sure to stay tuned to Samsung Insights and our Galaxy for Business social channels for all of the latest updates in the run-up to the big event.

    Join us in the Galaxy on January 22, 2025. Live right here, on Samsung.com.

  • AI and Just-in-Time Learning: A New Chapter in Personalized Education

    AI and Just-in-Time Learning

    In this digital era, the convergence of AI and Just-in-Time learning marks a transformative educational shift. These innovations, from personalized content delivery to predictive learning pathways, reshape how knowledge is acquired and applied. As demonstrated in Vijay Kumar Valaboju’s research, this technology continues to evolve, promising to make education more accessible, efficient, and tailored to individual needs – potentially democratizing learning opportunities for future generations.
    The Dawn of Smart Learning

    The integration of AI with JIT learning represents a significant shift from traditional educational methods. This innovative approach delivers targeted information precisely when needed, enhanced by AI’s ability to understand and adapt to individual learning patterns. The system’s ability to provide immediate, relevant content departs from conventional one-size-fits-all teaching models.

    Intelligent Personalization Takes Center Stage

    AI-powered learning systems are transforming education through sophisticated personalization mechanisms. These systems analyze learner profiles, including prior knowledge and learning preferences, to curate tailored educational materials. The technology adjusts content difficulty and pacing in real-time, ensuring each learning experience is optimized for individual needs.

    Real-Time Assessment Revolution

    One of the most significant innovations is the implementation of real-time skill assessment. Through continuous monitoring and analysis of learner interactions, AI systems can instantly identify knowledge gaps and provide targeted interventions. This immediate feedback loop ensures learners receive prompt support exactly when needed.

    The Power of Predictive Learning
    Through advanced AI algorithms, learning systems can now forecast educational needs by analyzing complex patterns in both learner behavior and industry evolution. This predictive intelligence goes beyond simple content recommendations, offering strategic insights into future skill requirements. The technology examines learning patterns, industry shifts, and emerging trends to suggest proactive skill development paths. This forward-looking approach enables learners to prepare for upcoming professional challenges before they arise, ensuring they remain competitive in rapidly evolving industries and adaptable to new workplace demands.
    Breaking Barriers with Technology

    Integrating emerging technologies like Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) with AI-enhanced learning systems opens new possibilities. These immersive technologies create hands-on learning experiences that were previously impossible in traditional settings, particularly beneficial for complex procedures or dangerous environments.

    The Road to Lifelong Learning
    As workplaces evolve at unprecedented speeds, AI-enhanced Just-in-Time learning systems have emerged as essential tools for continuous professional growth. These intelligent platforms analyze career paths, industry shifts, and skill gaps to craft personalized learning journeys. Through real-time assessments and targeted recommendations, they help professionals maintain their competitive edge. The systems respond dynamically to changing industry needs, offering relevant learning resources exactly when required, while helping individuals smoothly navigate career transitions and master new competencies.
    Addressing Contemporary Challenges
    While AI-enhanced Just-in-Time learning presents transformative potential, it faces several critical challenges that require careful navigation. Data privacy concerns demand robust protection measures for learner information and usage patterns. The accuracy of AI systems must be continuously monitored and refined to ensure reliable learning recommendations. Perhaps most importantly, finding the right balance between automated AI assistance and human instruction remains crucial – too much automation could diminish the valuable interpersonal aspects of learning, while too little might not fully leverage the technology’s benefits. These challenges are actively addressed through evolving frameworks and ethical guidelines to ensure responsible implementation.
    Looking to the Future
    Research reveals a significant surge in AI-enhanced Just-in-Time learning adoption across diverse industries. The technology is transforming professional development, with particularly strong impact in corporate training and healthcare education. Early implementations show remarkable improvements in learning outcomes, with enhanced retention rates and accelerated skill acquisition. The flexibility and efficiency of these systems make them particularly valuable for continuous professional development and rapid upskilling in fast-evolving sectors, pointing to a future where personalized, on-demand learning becomes the norm.

    In his concluding analysis, Vijay Kumar Valaboju envisions a future where AI-enhanced Just-in-Time learning becomes a cornerstone of education. As this technological integration matures, it promises to break down traditional learning barriers, offering personalized pathways for skill development. This synergy of AI and education represents more than an advancement in teaching methods—it’s a transformative force poised to democratize learning, accelerate knowledge acquisition, and empower individuals to thrive in our rapidly evolving digital landscape.

  • BenQ Launches a New QHD Monitor in its Game-Changing 100Hz Series! – CRN

    BenQ Launches a New QHD Monitor in its Game-Changing 100Hz Series! – CRN

    BenQ, introduces the GW2790Q monitor. With its 27″ High-resolution QHD 2K IPS display, the monitor delivers an immersive visual experience while offering advanced eye care features to boost productivity and ensure comfort.

    The GW2790Q monitor offers 2560 x 1440 resolution, a 100Hz refresh rate for smooth performance, and 99% sRGB color coverage for vibrant, accurate colors. Dual HDMI 2.0 and DP 1.2 ensure seamless connectivity for creative projects, office tasks, coding, or gaming. Its compact, space-saving design fits effortlessly into any setup, making the GW2790Q the perfect all-in-one display for productivity and entertainment.

    BenQ’s Brightness Intelligence Gen 2 optimises screen brightness according to ambient light, while Low Blue Light Plus and Flicker-Free technologies minimise eye fatigue. TUV Rheinland-certified for low blue light and flicker-free performance, the monitor also features M-Book, E-Paper, Coding, Color Weakness, Cinema modes, and RPF 35 Eye-Safe 2.0 certification, ensuring enhanced eye comfort for all users.

    “We are proud to introduce the latest addition to the BenQ Home and Office series monitors, designed for unmatched visual immersion and advanced eye care. Featuring wide sRGB coverage, smooth refresh rates, and innovative eye care technology, these monitors deliver an exceptional viewing experience while reducing eye strain during long hours of use,” said Mr Rajeev Singh, Managing Director, BenQ India.

    Key Features Include:
    Immersive Visuals
    ⦁ The 27” QHD IPS display provides an engaging viewing experience ideal for productivity and entertainment
    ⦁ 100Hz Refresh Rate – Smooth visuals perfect for gaming and multimedia
    ⦁ 99% sRGB Coverage – Vibrant and accurate colors come alive
    ⦁ High 1500:1 native contrast ratio for sharp and immersive content
    Seamless Connectivity
    ⦁ Dual HDMI 2.0 and DisplayPort 1.2 enable seamless connectivity with multiple devices
    ⦁ 5-way adjustable input hotkey for quick access to customised display settings
    ⦁ VESA-certified Media Sync ensures optimal performance and compatibility
    Extensive Eye Care
    ⦁ TÜV Rheinland certified and RPF 35 compliant for low blue light and flicker-free eye comfort
    ⦁ Advanced eye-care features: Brightness Intelligence Gen 2, Low Blue Light Plus, and Flicker-Free technology to reduce eye fatigue
    ⦁ M-Book Mode ensures color consistency with MacBook displays
    ⦁ E-Paper Mode replicates the look of physical paper for comfortable reading
    ⦁ Coding Mode improves text clarity, ideal for programmers
    ⦁ Color Weakness Mode designed for users with color vision deficiencies

  • OnePlus 13 Unboxing and First Impressions: Setting the tone for 2025

    OnePlus 13 unboxing & first impressions

    OnePlus 13 unboxing & first impressionsIBT

    As the world rings in the New Year, there’s already some exciting news for smartphone enthusiasts as OnePlus takes the first shot at commencing the flagship race. Marking a grand launch of two biggest flagships of the year, OnePlus finally launched OnePlus 13 and OnePlus 13R on January 7, putting an end to all the speculations and rumours about what the new phones will be all about.

    OnePlus, however, hasn’t kept a tight lid on the devices, boldly showing off the design and teasing key features in the days leading up to the launch. But we’re here to bring you some more of that exclusive peek as OnePlus has shared with us the review units of OnePlus 13 and OnePlus 13R.

    OnePlus 13 starts at Rs 69,999 and the OnePlus 13R stars at Rs 42,999. There’s a special launch offer with ICICI Bank discount, slashing the price by Rs 5,000. The 12GB+512GB variant costs Rs 76,999 and the 24GB+1TB costs Rs 84,999. The 13R’s 16GB+512GB costs Rs 49,999.

    While we are in the process of testing and reviewing the flagship, we can, at this point, share with our readers the phones’ first impressions as we unbox the devices.

    Unboxing OnePlus 13 series media kit

    OnePlus sent us the whole package, its celebrated media kit, which comes with each flagship device. While the phones are a part of it, there are accessories that elevate the overall user experience, which helps us bring a better perspective of the devices.

    OnePlus 13 unboxing & first impressions

    OnePlus 13 unboxing & first impressionsIBT

    The media kit of the OnePlus 13-series is an experience in itself. The main box is at least 10 times the size of normal smartphone packaging. In well-secured compartments, OnePlus has placed the OnePlus 13, OnePlus 13R and OnePlus Bullets Pro 3 in an all-new Sapphire Blue shade, complimenting the Sapphire Blue OnePlus 13.

    As traditions go, OnePlus even put a secret compartment on the side, in which came two OnePlus 13 magnetic cases, an AIRVOOC 50W wireless magnetic charger and a coffee tumbler with subtle OnePlus branding.

    OnePlus 13 first impressions

    OnePlus sent us the Arctic Dawn variant of the OnePlus 13, and there are two other shades — Midnight Ocean and Black Eclipse. Though the white looks elegant, the blue is the new shade and has to be the better of the trio, complete with its microfiber vegan leather back to set the 13 apart. Nevertheless, the white variant is class apart. It looks sophisticated with that matte glass finish, which curves at the ends to seamlessly blend into the chassis. The shiny frame complements the white shade very well. The weight distribution is also on point, and it doesn’t feel like it weighs 210 grams. At 8.5mm thin, it is one of the sleekest flagships and has a solid grip.

    OnePlus 13 unboxing & first impressions

    OnePlus 13 unboxing & first impressionsIBT

    OnePlus has also addressed one of the biggest asks by fans in the OnePlus 13 by giving it IP68 and IP69 certification. This allows the phone to withstand water immersion and even high-temperature water jets, making it the most durable flagship in the OnePlus portfolio.

    Under the hood, the phone packs a 6,000 mAh battery with 100W SuperVOOC and 50W AirVOOC. This fast-charging tech is unparalled, and the massive battery just refused to die. The phone is lasting well over a day on a single charge. 

    The back of the phone has a big circular camera module, which houses four camera lenses. The redesigned camera module, OnePlus says, adheres to the golden ratio. OnePlus has packed a 50MP Sony LYT-808 sensor wide camera, 50MP LYT-600 with 3X optical zoom telephoto camera, 50MP S5KJN5 ultra-wide camera on the back. Video recording is supported at 8K 30fps, 4K at 60fps. The front camera has a 32MP Sony IMX615 sensor. 

    OnePlus 13 unboxing & first impressions

    OnePlus 13 unboxing & first impressionsIBT

    Take a look at some of the camera samples below:

    1/8

    • Shot on OnePlus 13

      Shot on OnePlus 13: 0.6X

    • Shot on OnePlus 13

      Shot on OnePlus 13: 1X

    • Shot on OnePlus 13

      Shot on OnePlus 13: 2X

    • Shot on OnePlus 13

      Shot on OnePlus 13: 3X

    • Shot on OnePlus 13

      Shot on OnePlus 13: 6X

    • Shot on OnePlus 13

      Shot on OnePlus 13: 6X

    • Shot on OnePlus 13

      Shot on OnePlus 13 front camera: Normal

    • Shot on OnePlus 13

      Shot on OnePlus 13 front camera: Portrait

    Just as the back of the phone has a quad-curved glass, the display also has a quad-curved screen, which gives an expansive viewing experience. The Alert Slider takes its usual position and continues to work its charm. The volume and power controls are on the right while the USB Type-C port sits at the bottom along with the speaker grille. Overall, the OnePlus 13 takes a fresh approach towards design without losing the signature look, all while keeping the core “Never Settle” spirit alive.

    1/3

    • OnePlus 13 unboxing & first impressions

      OnePlus 13 unboxing & first impressionsIBT

    • OnePlus 13 unboxing & first impressions

      OnePlus 13 unboxing & first impressionsIBT

    • OnePlus 13 unboxing & first impressions

      OnePlus 13 unboxing & first impressionsIBT

    OnePlus 13 packs a 6.82-inch QHD+ 120Hz ProXHDR display with LTPO4.1 and Ceramic Guard. It is bright and crisp with vibrant colours, suitable for multimedia and playing high-graphics games. The phone is powered by Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, Andreno 830, up to 1TB storage, 24GB LPDDR5X RAM, which ensures seamless performance. In the short time we’ve been using the phone, there has been no issue with the performance or the UI.

    OnePlus 13

    OnePlus 13IBT

    As we’re reviewing these new smartphones, tell us if there’s any specific content you’d like us to test. You can write to the reviewer at s.khan@ibtimes.co.in.

  • Accenture Technology Vision 2025: New Age of AI to Bring Unprecedented Autonomy to Business – CRN

    Accenture Technology Vision 2025: New Age of AI to Bring Unprecedented Autonomy to Business – CRN

    New research from Accenture finds a new era of digitisation is unfolding — one in which AI continuously learns and drives new levels of autonomy across organisations, positioning trust in its performance as the most important measure organisations will need for AI to achieve its promise.

    Now in its 25th year, the Accenture Technology Vision 2025 explores how the future is being shaped by AI-powered autonomy. As AI diffusion accelerates across the enterprise and society at a rate that is faster than any prior technology, 69% of executives believe it brings new urgency to reinvention and how technology systems and the processes it enables are designed, built and operated. The research also predicts AI will increasingly act as a technology development partner, a personal brand ambassador, power robotic bodies in the physical world, and foster a new symbiotic relationship with people to bring out the best in each other.

    “Our 25th Technology Vision gives leaders a look into what’s ahead when AI continuously learns, acts autonomously with and on behalf of people, and pushes enterprises and the people who use it into new and exciting ways to continuously reinvent,” said Julie Sweet, chair and CEO, Accenture. “But unlocking the benefits of AI will only be possible if leaders seize the opportunity to inject and develop trust in its performance and outcomes in a systematic manner so businesses and people can unlock AI’s incredible possibilities.”

    People’s trust in AI—beyond any technical aspect, that it performs justly and as expected—is essential to it having as broad and positive an impact as anticipated. This means digital systems and AI models are more accurate, predictable, consistent and traceable, over and above the responsible use of AI. Most (77%) executives believe the true benefits of AI will only be possible when built on a foundation of trust, and slightly more (81%) agree that trust strategy must evolve in parallel with any technology strategy.

    “Advancements in digitising knowledge, new AI models, agentic AI systems and architecture enables enterprises to create their own unique cognitive digital brains.” said Karthik Narain, group chief executive – Technology and CTO, Accenture. “While conventional technologies have long supported pre-determined business needs, this is a generational moment of transition. The autonomy created by these generalised AI systems can help organisations be more dynamic and intention-driven than ever. It will allow leaders to rethink how digital systems are designed, how people work, and reinvent how they create products and interact with customers. But trust underpins it all, as systems will only ever be as autonomous as they are trustworthy.”

    The Accenture Technology Vision 2025 explores the potential impact of gen AI as it ripples across multiple dimensions, including technology development, customer experience, the physical world and the workforce:

    ⦁ When foundation models cracked the natural language barrier, it kickstarted a shift that would forever change the fundamentals of software development and ecosystems. Already, gen AI coding assistants are elevating the role of developer to systems engineer, accelerating the democratisation of code and digitisation of businesses. The rise of custom systems as a result of gen AI assisted software development and the advancement of AI agents is igniting a shift from static application architecture to intention-based framework and agentic systems. As multi-agent systems become more capable, adaptive and personalised, it will inspire greater diffusion through enhanced competence, growing to manage processes and entire functions, from streamlining travel to optimising inventory. For example, Accenture is enabling this future with its platforms, GenWizard, SynOps and AI Refinery, ⦁ offering prebuilt industry agents and workflows to accelerate the time needed to build and see value from specialised multiagent systems.

    ⦁ Organisations are racing to make AI a new customer touch point but brands will only be able to achieve brand differentiation if the same focus is applied to AI experiences. While 80% of executives worry LLMs and chatbots could give every brand a similar voice, 77% agree brands can solve by proactively building personified AI experiences and injecting distinct brand elements, such as culture, values and voice, into those experiences through its digital brain.

    ⦁ Generalist robots will emerge over the next decade, bringing more AI autonomy into the physical world. It will be possible for introductory general-purpose robots to become specialist robots, learning new tasks very quickly. Already, ⦁ KION Group is teaming with Accenture and NVIDIA, to optimise how AI-driven robots perform warehouse tasks and seamlessly interact with and learn from warehouse staff to fulfill orders faster, safer and at a lower cost. Eighty percent of executives believe that robots collaborating with people and continuously learning from those interactions will increase trust and collaboration between people and robots.

    ⦁ People and AI are defining a virtuous learning loop: where the more people use AI, the more it improves, and the more people want to use it. Unlike conventional automation, which yielded one-time benefits, this new age of AI can enhance and advance its skills over time, improving its value to the individuals using it and the organisation as a whole. A key priority (80%) for leaders is ensuring a positive relationship trajectory between people and AI—so it is not derailed by fears of automation—starting with communicating the strategy and bringing employees into the process. Accenture recently unveiled a ⦁ Generative AI Scholars Program with Stanford Online to help clients sharpen gen AI knowledge and skills. In addition, organisations have the opportunity to equip every employee with a talented digital sidekick, one that will allow people to tap into new skills and grow use of gen AI tools. In turn, organisations will reap the benefit too, as individuals familiar with gen AI were found five-times more likely to have a positive perception of the technology.

  • Who is Belson Coutinho, Akasa Air’s new Chief Operating Officer (COO)

    Akasa Air appoints Belson Coutinho as COO amid rising competition

    IANS

    Akasa Air has appointed Belson Coutinho as its Chief Operating Officer (COO). This strategic decision comes at a time when the sector is experiencing heightened competition. Coutinho will be at the helm of Akasa Air’s crucial operational functions, which include inflight services, airport services, maintenance and engineering, flight operations, and operational excellence.

    In November, Akasa Air carried 674,000 domestic passengers, capturing a market share of 4.7 per cent. This is a noteworthy achievement as India’s domestic aviation sector surpassed its 2023 traffic levels last year. Since its inception in 2022, the airline has served over 14 million passengers and connects 22 domestic and five international cities.

    Akasa Air launched its first commercial flight on August 7, 2022, to cater to the growing demand across India. It commenced international operations on March 28, 2024, offering non-stop flights from Mumbai to Doha. The carrier operates flights to Doha, Riyadh, Abu Dhabi, Jeddah, and Kuwait.

    The airline has placed a firm order of 226 Boeing 737 MAX airplanes and currently operates 26 737 MAX aircraft. Despite facing challenges and increasing competition among low-cost carriers, profitability remains a key priority for Akasa Air.

    Akasa Air

    IANS

    India’s commercial airlines flew 1.42 crore passengers on domestic routes in November this year, representing a robust 12 per cent increase compared to the same month in the previous year. This data, provided by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), indicates a promising future for the aviation industry in India.

    In addition to its domestic operations, Akasa Air has been making strides in inclusive air travel. The airline continues to offer Braille in-flight safety manuals and menu cards across its network, reflecting its commitment to accessibility and inclusivity. The Braille materials were developed in collaboration with The Xavier’s Resource Centre for the Visually Challenged (XRCVC), ensuring the highest standards of accuracy and usability.

    Akasa Air also celebrated Children’s Day with an Aviation Experience Day for students from Logic Centre and Community Welfare Association (LCCWA), a Mumbai-based NGO. This initiative reflects the airline’s commitment to community engagement and social responsibility.

     

  • AI to bring new urgency to reinvention, become personal brand ambassador: Report

    AI

    AI to bring new urgency to reinvention, become personal brand ambassador: ReportIANS

    As artificial intelligence (AI) diffusion accelerates across enterprises and society at a rate that is faster than any prior technology, 69 per cent of executives, including in India, believe it brings new urgency to reinvention and how technology systems and the processes it enables are designed, built and operated, a report showed on Tuesday.

    The ‘Accenture Technology Vision 2025’ also predicted that AI will increasingly act as a technology development partner, a personal brand ambassador, power robotic bodies in the physical world, and foster a new symbiotic relationship with people to bring out the best in each other.

    According to Julie Sweet, Chair and CEO, Accenture, unlocking the benefits of AI will only be possible if leaders seize the opportunity to inject and develop trust in its performance and outcomes in a systematic manner so businesses and people can unlock AI’s incredible possibilities.

    People’s trust in AI is essential to it having as broad and positive an impact as anticipated.

    Most (77 per cent) executives believe the true benefits of AI will only be possible when built on a foundation of trust , and slightly more (81 per cent) agree that trust strategy must evolve in parallel with any technology strategy.

    The primary global research included two parallel surveys: more than 4,000 executives across 21 industries and 28 countries, with India among the countries surveyed, representing a sample size of 190 executives.

    Artificial intelligence and machine learning

    People’s trust in AI is essential to it having as broad and positive an impact as anticipated.Scott Graham from Unsplash

    “Advancements in digitising knowledge, new AI models, agentic AI systems and architecture enables enterprises to create their own unique cognitive digital brains.” said Karthik Narain, group chief executive-Technology and CTO, Accenture.

    The autonomy created by these generalised AI systems can help organisations be more dynamic and intention-driven than ever. It will allow leaders to rethink how digital systems are designed, how people work, and reinvent how they create products and interact with customers, he mentioned.

    While 80 per cent of executives worry large language models (LLMs) and chatbots could give every brand a similar voice, 77 per cent agree brands can solve by proactively building personified AI experiences and injecting distinct brand elements, such as culture, values and voice, into those experiences through its digital brain.

    Generalist robots will emerge over the next decade, bringing more AI autonomy into the physical world. It will be possible for introductory general-purpose robots to become specialist robots, learning new tasks very quickly, the report noted.

    (With inputs from IANS)