With all the work that Google is doing with AI, it’s not surprising that the company is trying to find ways to integrate it into existing products and services. One of those products that will be getting a boost from AI is the Google Chrome browser.

Google has announced that they are bringing a bunch of generative AI features to Chrome. The first of these new features is a way for users to organize their tabs smartly. Using AI, Chrome will be able to suggest and create tab groups based on your current open tabs, saving you the time from having to sort it out yourself.

Another new AI feature comes in the form of creating your own themes. For those who like to use the Chrome themes but can’t find something that suits them, the new AI will let users create their own theme. The use of AI will let users create something that is truly unique to themselves.

Last but not least, Chrome is introducing AI to help users with their writing. This is an experimental feature will let you tell the AI the thing that you’re trying to write, and the AI will generate something for you. This can be useful if you’re trying to craft a quick reply to an email, leave a review for a restaurant or business, and so on.

“Call Before You Dig”: Using AI and Data Science to Protect Buried Cables and Keep Construction Projects on Track

December 01, 2023

Oracle said its generative AI managed service on Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI) is generally available and the enterprise software giant said it plans to infuse it throughout its database and application offerings.

The company said its OCI Generative AI service will integrate large language models (LLMs) from Cohere and Meta Llama 2 for multiple business cases. Those two options fall short of the number of models offered by other hyperscalers, which have taken a mall approach to models, but the way Oracle is deploying the generative AI service may appeal to enterprises.

In a blog post, Greg Pavlik, SVP OCI, said:

“We took a holistic approach to generative AI as we thought through the complete picture of what enterprises truly need to successfully implement generative AI. We’re also increasingly adapting models to real-world enterprise scenarios.”

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OCI generative AI service can be used in Oracle Cloud or on-premises via an OCI Dedicated Region. That twist may appeal to regulated industries that Oracle already caters to, said Constellation Research analyst Andy Thurai. He said:

“While OCI’s managed LLM as a service, via API access, is a compelling option, it is currently limited to just Cohere and Meta’s Llama 2. Currently, the use cases are also very limited to text generation, summarization, and semantic similarity tasks.

Oracle’s option to use the generative AI service in the Oracle cloud and on-premises via OCI dedicated region is a somewhat unique proposition that might be interesting to some large enterprise customers — especially the ones in regulated industries.

In terms of overall generative AI offerings, Oracle is far behind all three cloud providers. However, the option to integrate generative AI in Oracle’s ERP, HCM, SCM, and CX applications running on OCI could make this offering more attractive, if priced right.”

Doug Henschen, Constellation Research analyst, said:

“It’s notable that Oracle is hosting two moderately sized foundation models that  promise lower-cost operation than the large public models. Use of Cohere models will be indemnified by Oracle while Llama 2 is an open source option that will enable customers to build custom models. Being hosted on OCI, both options keep data and model training entirely inside Oracle’s cloud, avoiding cross-cloud calls to external public models.”

Here are the key points of the announcement at Oracle’s CloudWorld Tour:

• OCI Generative AI service supports more than 100 languages with improved GPU cluster management.
• Oracle will embed AI across its applications and converged database with pre-built services instead of a tool kit.
• Enterprises can consume the service via API calls.
• Customers can refine the OCI Generative AI service models with retrieval augmented generation (RAG) techniques. To that end, OCI Generative AI Agents is in beta and can combine with a RAG agent for customization.
• The OCI Generative AI Agents beta supports OCI OpenSearch, but Oracle said it will support search and aggregation tools to Oracle Database 23c and MySQL HeatWave with vector search tools.
• Oracle said it will deliver prebuilt agent actions across its suite of SaaS applications.

Constellation ShortList™ Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning Cloud Platforms | Trust In The Age of AI

In addition, Oracle launched OCI Data Science AI Quick Actions, a no-code feature of the OCI Data Science service that will enable integration with multiple LLMs and open-source models.

The company said it also improved its existing AI offerings for vision, speech, document understanding and translation.

Contact centers face persistent challenges in ensuring optimal agent productivity and efficiency. OpenText™ Qfiniti Explore 24.1 emerges as a beacon of innovation, addressing the pressing issues contact centers face by transforming customer interactions into seamless, satisfying experiences. This release marks a significant stride toward addressing many challenges Contact Center as a Service (CCaaS) environments face.

Challenges addressed

The relentless struggle with heavy workloads, diverse customer inquiries, and complex issues has often led to poor agent productivity and efficiency in contact centers. The elusive goal of achieving a seamless First Call to Resolution (FCR) is hindered by agents lacking training or access to comprehensive customer information. This results in frustrated customers, diminished service quality, and brand deterioration.

Empowering agents

Qfiniti Explore 24.1 places a spotlight on agent experience management, connecting agents, and advanced analytics and quality management. With a focus on providing CCaaS solution providers like Sinch with extended capabilities, this release is poised to revolutionize how Contact Center as a Service operates.

Key features

• Advanced Analytics Add-ons to CCaaS: By analyzing agent and customer interactions, businesses can identify areas for improvement and implement changes to enhance customer experience. Common complaints can be addressed, and personalized service opportunities can be identified.

• Speech Analytics for Quality Control in CCaaS: Unlock the power of agent autoscore with faster quality management monitoring calls enabling the identification of areas where additional training or support is needed. Workflow processes can be enhanced to ensure consistent interactions meet company standards.

Benefits to a CCaaS ecosystem

By implementing changes based on AI-powered analytics, contact centers can significantly enhance the overall customer experience, addressing common complaints and providing personalized service.

AI-enabled speech analytics ensures that calls are monitored effectively, identifying areas for improvement, and supporting agents where necessary. This leads to consistent interactions that meet high-quality standards.

Qfiniti Explore 24.1 is not just a release, it’s a strategic move towards making Contact Centers as a Service more intelligent, connected, secure, and responsible. Embrace the future of customer service with Qfiniti Explore 24.1, where excellence is not just an expectation but a guarantee.

The Stegosaurus may have lived during the late Jurassic Period, about 155 million to 150 million years ago, but a LEGO model of one is about to come to life at LEGOLAND California Resort!

What’s Happening:

Highlights of Dino Valley include:

Aside from just being a very fulfilling practice for overstressed metro individuals, urban agriculture has several benefits, such as the development of a sense of community, independence, and the repurposability of unused city spaces. Additionally, growing the food locally means there’s no need to ship produce from faraway farms, reducing the overall carbon footprint of the meals on your plate — or so we were led to believe.

A new study throws a wrench in the works, revealing that fruits and vegetables grown in urban farms have, on average, a six times greater carbon footprint than conventionally grown produce! The main culprit is the material used to build and maintain such farms, like raised beds and irrigation systems. These often have shorter lifespans, leading to a higher environmental cost per serving.

Urban farming is tricky. While futuristic hydroponic systems with multi-level vertical farms might come to mind when visualising the concept, the fact remains that most farms in the city are just simple agriculture beds, with none of this resource-saving tech to show for it.

Since many of these farms are the result of relatively impromptu endeavours, urban farmers often don’t invest heavily in the longevity of the agriculture infrastructure. What results is that the constant damage control actually causes higher greenhouse gas emissions than conventional farming practices.

Even though the overall picture seems bleak, all is not lost yet. Certain crops, like open-air tomatoes, actually perform better than their greenhouse counterparts in traditional farms. But in order to make city farming truly sustainable, the researchers recommend using durable materials to make the grow-beds, and reusing urban waste such as construction debris, food waste and rainwater.

While lowering the carbon footprint is crucial, the study reminds us that urban farms offer more than just food. They improve mental health, diets, and social connections. By maximising these “non-food outputs,” urban farms can become truly sustainable parts of our cities.

The findings of this study have been published in Nature Cities and can be accessed here.

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Embarking on a journey beyond the ordinary, discover the joy of an elevated spa pool experience with eight cutting-edge accessories and gadgets. In this exploration, you will find a treasure trove of innovations tailored to transform the standard soak into a blissful retreat. Picture yourself immersed in a world where smart water management and dazzling spa pool lights coexist, setting the mood for unparalleled relaxation. These innovations, handpicked for your ultimate comfort, go beyond the basics, ensuring every dip becomes a rejuvenating escape. Imagine the convenience of robotic cleaners, courtesy of a forward-thinking swimming pool builder, simplifying maintenance. Dive into a conversation where the allure of essential oil diffusers and advanced jet systems transforms your backyard swimming pool and spa into a haven of tranquillity. Join the journey as the blog unwraps a realm where technology meets serenity.

Smart Water Management

The foundation of an exceptional spa pool experience begins with water quality. Enter the realm of smart water management, where advanced sensors and automated chemical dispensers join forces. These gadgets simplify maintenance and ensure that the water in your backyard oasis is always crystal clear. Thanks to these intelligent systems, imagine the convenience of monitoring and adjusting water parameters with just a few taps on your device. These innovations make spa pool ownership a seamless and enjoyable endeavour for the discerning homeowner.

Mood Lighting and Ambiance

Lighting transforms a simple soak into a visual symphony, and innovative LED underwater lights take the spotlight in enhancing the spa pool ambience. With colour-changing options and synchronised lighting effects, homeowners can curate a personalised atmosphere for every occasion. These advancements go beyond the traditional, turning the backyard into a canvas where relaxation meets aesthetics. Smart lighting control systems further empower users to customise the mood, creating a captivating environment that complements the soothing waters.

Soundscapes and Audio Systems

The auditory component of a spa pool experience is often underestimated. However, with waterproof and submersible speakers, the soundtrack to relaxation becomes an integral part of the retreat. These high-quality audio systems, equipped with Bluetooth connectivity, seamlessly integrate with your favourite playlists. Picture the bliss of submerging in warm waters while enjoying your favourite tunes. For a holistic sensory experience, these audio innovations can be synchronised with smart home systems, offering complete control at your fingertips.

Comfort and Ergonomics

Elevating comfort in the spa pool experience involves more than just warm water. Upgraded spa pillows, cushions, floating drink holders, and adjustable headrests create a haven of personalised luxury. These accessories transform the simple act of soaking into a cocoon of relaxation. Homeowners can now tailor their seating experience, ensuring that every dip is soothing and ergonomically delightful. As the water cradles, these comfort enhancements elevate the overall satisfaction of the spa pool experience.

Aromatherapy Innovations

Aromatherapy takes centre stage with innovations designed specifically for spa pool use. Essential oil diffusers, crafted for aquatic environments, infuse the air with delightful scents, enhancing sensory delight. Accompanied by aromatherapy cartridges and pods, homeowners can indulge in a world where fragrances mingle with warm water, creating an immersive and calming atmosphere. These aromatic enhancements add a layer of sophistication to the spa pool experience, inviting users into a realm of olfactory delight.

Water Features and Jet Enhancements

Traditionally, spa pool jets have been a staple for hydrotherapy. However, the journey beyond the basics introduces upgraded jet systems with adjustable and targeted features. Imagine a cascade of water creating a gentle massage effect or an air infusion system producing invigorating bubbles. These water features and jet enhancements turn the spa pool into a dynamic space where the therapeutic benefits of hydrotherapy reach new heights.

High-Tech Temperature Control

Maintaining the optimal water temperature is paramount for a satisfying spa pool experience. Enter smart thermostats and temperature control systems, ensuring that the water is always at the perfect warmth. Homeowners can effortlessly regulate the temperature, creating a customised environment that caters to individual preferences. Additionally, energy-efficient heating options contribute to sustainability, aligning modern technology with eco-conscious spa pool ownership.

Maintenance and Cleaning Gadgets

The journey concludes with a focus on the practical aspect of spa pool ownership—maintenance and cleaning. Robotic pool cleaners, specifically for spa pools, offer a hands-free approach to pristine water. Paired with UV-C sanitation systems, these gadgets elevate water purification, ensuring a hygienic and enjoyable experience. As homeowners explore the possibilities, these maintenance and cleaning gadgets become integral to the long-term satisfaction of their spa pool investment.

Conclusion

As the curtain falls on this exploration of enhanced tranquillity, readers find themselves equipped with newfound knowledge to elevate their backyard swimming pool and spa into a personal oasis. The journey through eight innovative accessories and gadgets has unveiled a world where every dip becomes a customised escape. Whether it’s the allure of underwater LED lights transforming the swimming pool ambience or the convenience of smart water management, each discovery contributes to a tapestry of ultimate relaxation. As readers contemplate these enhancements, they can turn to a skilled pool designer for expert advice on crafting a personalised haven. With these innovative tools, the backyard swimming pool transcends its conventional role, emerging as a sanctuary of well-deserved serenity. The blog’s engaging finale invites readers into a world where technology and design converge, promising a spa-like retreat just steps away from home.

Led by the nation’s foremost legal specialist on the intersection of artificial intelligence and the law, as well as world-class litigators and IP-focused lawyers fluent in the latest AI and machine-learning tools and their applications, our cross-departmental AI team is uniquely positioned to help clients mitigate potential legal and business risks in their use of AI-powered technologies, while safely taking advantage of the business opportunities presented by these powerful new tools.

With each passing day, the world is inching closer and closer to a real-life depiction of Disney’s Smart House (minus the holographic housewife). From Siri to Amazon’s Alexa, we can control most of life’s daily tasks by simply calling out to our virtual assistants. 

Amazon’s latest Alexa gadget is the Echo Show 8, a virtual hub for a smart home. And the best part is this snazzy tech gadget is discounted to just $89.99, 40% off the original price.

All-new Echo Show 8 (3rd Gen, 2023 release) | With Spatial Audio, Smart Home Hub, and Alexa | Charcoal

The Amazon Echo can make life a little easier while also being a source of entertainment. This gadget features built-in spatial audio and an 8” HD touchscreen for easy last-minute weather checks and calendar updates. You can also stream movies, YouTube, and TV from it if other screens aren’t sufficing.

The highly-rated smart home gadget is also compatible with devices from Zigbee, Matter, and Thread, enabling any user to control lights, cameras, and more throughout the home. Stay on track of daily happenings with the adaptive content feature, and it syncs to calendars and includes reminders for any upcoming events or tasks that need to be completed. 

This gadget is great for those who love their virtual assistant but want a visual, and it’s available for under $100 today!