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Here are five tech things that happened this week and how they affect your business. Did you miss them?
Contents
- 1 1 – Apple’s 40 percent decline in PC shipments is the steepest of any major computer manufacturer.
- 2 Why this is important for your business:
- 3 Why this is important for your business:
- 4 3 – The FBI says you should avoid public USB drives if you don’t want malware on your phone.
- 5 Why this is important for your business:
- 6 4 – GoDaddy launches a Generative AI Prompt Library for small businesses.
- 7 Why this is important for your business:
- 8 5 – Graneet raises $8.7 million for its vertical SaaS for construction companies.
- 9 Why this is important for your business:
1 – Apple’s 40 percent decline in PC shipments is the steepest of any major computer manufacturer.
The first quarter of 2023 was dismal for PC shipments. Apple’s sales fell 40 percent compared to the previous year. Supply chain issues and the continued impact of Covid 19 were attributed to the decline. The demand for technological products has also declined. Other PC manufacturers also saw their sales decline, with the overall PC market shrinking by 8.3 percent. The article notes that the decline in PC sales is expected to continue throughout the year, with many consumers opting to use their existing devices for longer periods of time. (Source: Bloomberg)
Why this is important for your business:
There’s no better proof of a technical downturn than seeing Apple’s sales numbers this way. Could this mean more price incentives for MacBooks and iMacs in the coming months? Keep your eyes out!
2 – A new Windows 11 update is out and here are three new features that a tech writer loves and one he hates.
The new Windows 11 update has been released with a bit of a mixed review from it Matt Hanson from TechRadar. The first feature is the ability to snap three or four windows onto a screen at the same time, making it easier to multitask. The second feature is the redesigned Microsoft Store with support for more apps and better performance. The third feature is the new Focus Sessions in the Microsoft To Do app, which help users stay focused and productive. The item where Matt gives a thumbs down is the new centered start menu with Microsoft notifications which has received some negative feedback. (Source: TechRadar)
Why this is important for your business:
Matt is a great writer and his points are well understood. But I’m not sure the things he loves or hates will really have a big impact on your employees. I suggest you upgrade or at least make sure your people are running the latest Windows 10 updates.
3 – The FBI says you should avoid public USB drives if you don’t want malware on your phone.
Traveling? Low battery on your mobile phone? You may want to think twice about charging. The FBI is warning the public to “avoid” using USB drives in public places such as airports or cafes. Hackers have discovered a way to infiltrate USB ports and infect connected devices with malware. In a recent tweet FBI Denver advised people to bring their own charging devices when traveling. The FCC added their own warning statement citing something called “juice jacking” — malware that accesses and exports sensitive information from a laptop or cell phone. (Source: Fast company)
Why this is important for your business:
This is a news item you should share with your employees, especially when they travel. Ultimately, once a device is hacked, your own network can be compromised.
4 – GoDaddy launches a Generative AI Prompt Library for small businesses.
Managing important details becomes highly efficient for small business owners thanks to generative AI. GoDaddy just added a generative AI prompt library that gives business owners access to key prompts designed to help them with everything from marketing strategies to perfecting a copywriting pitch. Acts as a virtual coach of sorts – the AI is programmed to answer specific questions from business owners – including how to handle and respond to a negative review. The company plans to expand the library and add more prompts in the coming months. (Source: Martech series)
Why this is important for your business:
I absolutely love this. Checking out this link to GoDaddy’s quick library where you’ll find all sorts of questions you can ask ChatGPT to help you run your business.
5 – Graneet raises $8.7 million for its vertical SaaS for construction companies.
Granitea software-as-a-service (SaaS) company that provides construction management solutions has raised $87 million in a Series B funding round. (Source: TechCrunch)
Why this is important for your business:
The company’s software is designed to help construction companies manage projects, schedules, budgets, and teams more efficiently. The funding will be used to expand Graneet’s product offerings and accelerate growth. The round was led by a group of venture capital firms, including Insight Partners, with participation from existing investors. The new financing will enable Graneet to continue to innovate and provide value to its customers
Janice has been with businesskinda for 5 years, writing copy for client websites, blog posts, EDMs and other mediums to engage readers and encourage action. By collaborating with clients, our SEO manager and the wider businesskinda team, Janice seeks to understand an audience before creating memorable, persuasive copy.