Tech Shockwaves: Windows PCs Crippled by Massive Outage, Google’s Pixel 9 Buzz, and How AI Might Redefine Your Career

July13-20,2024:Welcome to our weekly tech blog, your go-to destination for all things ACM (Association for Computing Machinery) and the latest updates from the tech world. Whether you're seeking career advice, staying updated on ACM events, exploring trending tech news, or getting to know prominent figures in the ACM community, we've got you covered. Join us on this weekly journey as we delve into the dynamic realm of computing, providing you with valuable insights and information to fuel your passion for technology.

Tech Highlights of the Week

1.Massive IT Outage: Windows Computers Hit by BSOD Due to CrowdStrike Bug

CrowdStrike, a leading US-based cybersecurity company founded in 2011, caused a major global IT outage on Friday due to a faulty software update to Microsoft Azure. This led to the "blue screen of death" on thousands of PCs, heavily impacting sectors like aviation. Despite this setback, CrowdStrike remains a significant player in cybersecurity, serving over 29,000 organizations, including many Fortune 500 companies. The company, valued at $83.4 billion, is known for its real-time threat detection product, CrowdStrike Falcon, and its role in uncovering Russian hacking of the Democratic National Committee in 2015-2016.

2.Google Pixel 9 Series Spotted on IMDA Website Ahead of August 13 Launch Event

Google's upcoming Pixel 9 series, including the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, and Pixel 9 Pro XL, was recently spotted on the IMDA certification website. The Pixel 9 has the model number GUR25, while the Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL are listed as GEC77 and GZC4K, respectively. These models support 5G, Bluetooth, NFC, and Wi-Fi connectivity. Google is set to unveil the new Pixel 9 series at its "Made by Google" event on August 13, with an Indian release on August 14. Rumored specifications include a 4,558mAh battery for the Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro, a 4,942mAh battery for the Pixel 9 Pro XL, displays ranging from 6.24 to 6.34 inches, and the Tensor G4 chip running on Android 14.

3.Steve Jobs' Critique of Microsoft Resurfaces Amid Global Tech Outage

During the recent global tech outage caused by a faulty CrowdStrike update, an old interview of Steve Jobs with tech journalist Bob Cringely from 1995 resurfaced and went viral on social media. In this interview, Jobs criticized Microsoft, stating, "The only problem with Microsoft is that they just have no taste. They have absolutely no taste. And what that means is - I don't mean that in a small way. I mean that in a big way. They don't think of original ideas and don't bring much culture into their products."

While Jobs acknowledged Microsoft's success, he expressed his disdain for the quality of their products, saying, "I have a problem with the fact that they just make really third-rate products." His critique highlighted the long-standing rivalry and differing philosophies between Apple and Microsoft, emphasizing the importance of originality and quality in technology.

4.Google Gemini Faces Challenges After Sharp Decline in Downloads

Google's Gemini AI, initially downloaded over 555,000 times by February 2024, saw downloads drop sharply to around 125,000 by April, with a brief recovery in May before declining again in June. Issues with inaccurate responses and problematic image services, such as depicting historically inaccurate figures, have raised concerns about Google's testing process. Experts, including Professor Dame Wendy Hall, suggest Gemini's rushed launch to compete with ChatGPT might be to blame. Addressing these accuracy issues is crucial for Gemini's future success.

AI IN FOCUS:

In a dramatic shift, funding for AI startups in India plummeted to $8.2 million in the April-June quarter, a staggering 91% drop from the previous quarter and an 82% decline year on year. This sharp downturn contrasts sharply with a nearly 110% funding surge in the prior quarter, highlighting the volatile market conditions influenced by geopolitical tensions and rising interest rates. Despite this, there is a silver lining: Indian AI startups have still managed to raise nearly $96 million this year, reflecting a 61% increase over the same period in 2023.

The broader global landscape tells a different story, with AI startups in the US receiving a robust $27 billion in funding during the same period, underscoring the sector's resilience. While Indian investors are currently cautious, anticipating market stabilization, optimism remains for AI’s future. Major investors and accelerators are gearing up, with significant commitments to AI-centric ventures, indicating a belief in the sector's long-term potential despite current challenges. As the Indian AI ecosystem grapples with issues like high infrastructure costs and talent shortages, the promise of innovation and future growth continues to drive interest and investment.

CAREER CORNER:

Unlocking AI Careers with Python: High-Paying Jobs and Pathways:

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming industries by enabling machines to perform tasks that typically require human intelligence. Python, known for its simplicity and extensive libraries, is the preferred language for AI development. Its straightforward syntax makes it accessible for both beginners and experts, allowing them to focus on solving problems rather than programming complexities.

Starting with Python basics, such as data structures and control flow, is essential before diving into advanced AI topics like data manipulation and visualization. Careers in AI are diverse and rewarding, including roles like Machine Learning Engineers, AI Research Scientists, and Automation Engineers. Mastering Python for AI programming opens doors to a range of exciting opportunities in this rapidly evolving field.

Navigating the Future: How Students Can Identify Careers at Risk of AI Replacement:

As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to advance and permeate various industries, students are facing a crucial question: which careers are most susceptible to AI replacement? The rise of AI brings both exciting opportunities and significant challenges, making it essential for students to strategically navigate their future career paths.

To begin with, students should analyze current job market trends, paying close attention to sectors rapidly integrating AI technologies. Industries such as manufacturing, finance, and customer service are already experiencing substantial shifts due to automation and AI. By examining these trends, students can identify which roles are most likely to evolve or become obsolete.

Assessing the redundancy potential of job roles is another effective strategy. Jobs characterized by repetitive and rule-bound tasks, like data entry or basic customer service, are prime candidates for automation. Conversely, professions that demand complex decision-making, creativity, and emotional intelligence are less likely to be replaced by AI. Staying up-to-date with technological advancements, such as natural language processing and machine learning, will further help students anticipate which roles might face increased automation.

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