(This column originally appeared in Forbes)
Here are five things in tech that happened this week and how they affect your business. Did you miss them?
1 — Apple’s 40 percent plunge in PC shipments is the steepest among major computer makers.
The first quarter of 2023 was bleak for PC shipments. Apple’s sales dropped by 40 percent compared to the previous year. Supply chain issues and the ongoing impact from Covid 19 attributed to the decline. The demand for technology products has slowed as well. Other PC manufacturers also experienced a decline in sales, with the overall market for PCs 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 evidence of a tech downturn that seeing Apple’s sales fall off the charts like this. Could this mean more pricing 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 one tech writer loves and one he hates.
The new update for Windows 11 has been released with a bit of a mixed review from Matt Hanson of TechRadar. The first feature is the ability to snap three or four windows on a screen simultaneously, 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 helps users stay focused and productive. The item Matt gives a thumbs down to is the new centered start menu that includes Microsoft notifications which has received some negative feedback. (Source: TechRadar)
Why this is important for your business:
Matt’s a great writer and his points are well taken. But I’m not sure any of things he lovers or hates is really going to have a big impact on your employees. I suggest upgrading or at the very least ensuring that your people are running the most recent updates of Windows 10.
3 — FBI says you should avoid public USB stations if you don’t want malware on your phone.
Traveling? Battery low on your cell phone? You might want to think twice about charging it. The FBI is warning the public to “avoid” using USB stations 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 recommended that people carry their own charging devices when travelling. The FCC added their own cautionary statement which cited 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 be sharing with your employees, particularly if they travel. Once a device is hacked, your own network could be ultimately compromised.
4 — GoDaddy launches a Generative AI Prompt Library for small businesses.
Managing important details is becoming highly efficient for small business owners thanks to Generative AI. GoDaddy has just added a generative AI Prompt Library giving business owners access to key prompts designed to assist them with everything from marketing strategies to perfecting a copywriting pitch. Acting as a virtual coach of sorts — the AI is programmed to address specific questions business owners have — 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. Check out this link to GoDaddy’s prompt library where you will find all sorts of questions you can be asking ChatGPT to help you run your business.
5 — Graneet raises $8.7 million for its vertical SaaS for construction companies.
Graneet, a 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 its growth. The round was led by a group of venture capital firms, including Insight Partners, with participation from existing investors. The new funding will enable Graneet to continue to innovate and provide value to its customers
