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Alexander Sikov/Getty Images Scholar Gary Marcus has become a kind of Poet Laureate on the shortcomings of artificial intelligence (AI), chronicling in numerous books and articles how the technology often comes up short and is less impressive than the average individual believes.  When, five years ago, Marcus wrote about the technical shortcomings of AI, in Rebooting AI, with co-author Ernest Davis, his critique was still somewhat theoretical, pointing to potential dangers of the technology.  Also: For a…

Zen Rial/Getty Images Generative AI tools such as ChatGPT and other assistants have the potential to improve teachers’ workloads, especially when it comes to lesson planning, grading, and personalized learning materials. However, knowing best practices is crucial to get the most out of the tech — and this new free AI course is meant to teach just that.   Also: The best free AI courses in 2024 (and whether AI certificates are worth it) On Wednesday, OpenAI…

Westend61/Getty Images Previously, I discussed how Google’s decision to merge ChromeOS and Android marks a critical moment for the company. While this merger is a positive step forward, it raises an important question: Can Android truly evolve into a desktop-class operating system for touchscreen laptops? Google faces challenges and opportunities as it reimagines Android for larger devices and productivity-focused workflows. Android compatibility is already integrated into most Arm and x86 Chromebooks. However, the quality of…

Daniel Megias/Getty Images For some Android users, battery life can be a constant problem, especially when working with a non-flagship device (where batteries tend to be smaller and less capable of making it through the day) or with apps that aren’t optimized for battery life.  You’ve seen this plot play out in many films or TV series. A character is in a very tough situation and has to make a life-saving phone call… only to…

traffic_analyzer/Getty Images Meta-owned Instagram has been making significant changes to how the social media site operates and recommends content, especially focusing on original content in Instagram recommendations and creating a safer online environment for teens.  Also: Bluesky hits 20 million users and counting – watch it keep growing here Today, in a blog post, Instagram announced another major change to its algorithms — a “fresh start.” According to the post, the site has been testing…

MicroStockHub/Getty Images The gender gap in artificial intelligence (AI) use appears to be closing — and fast.  On Tuesday, the Deloitte Center for Technology, Media and Telecommunications released new predictions around gender-based AI adoption that suggest women’s use of generative AI will “equal or exceed that of men” by the end of next year in the US and within the next two years in Europe. Also: Microsoft makes it easier for users to create AI agents in Copilot Studio…

If there’s one mobile trend in the past decade that I’ll proudly stand by, it’s the fact that cheap phones are getting good. Really good. In today’s market, buying a phone that costs a fraction of the latest flagship iPhone or Samsung Galaxy doesn’t mean settling for a noticeably inferior experience. Instead, manufacturers have begun to bring core features such as wireless charging, 5G, and high-performance processors downmarket, making the more accessible tier of handsets…

Segway/ZDNET The Segway Max G2 is an electric, kick-style scooter that’s a great, eco-friendly way to commute to work or school, run errands, or visit friends. During Best Buy’s lead-up to their official Black Friday sale, you can save $600 on one, bringing the price down to $800. Also: October Prime Day: Here’s everything you need to know The Segway Max G2 has a maximum range of 43 miles (69 kilometers) and a top speed…

Don’t forget credit/ZDNET Right now at Amazon, you can pick up this Nintendo Switch bundle for just $360 ahead of Black Friday. Which means you can beat the day-of rush of like-minded shoppers. Along with the standard Switch console and neon red/blue Joy-Con controllers, you’ll also get a digital download code for Mario Kart 8 Deluxe and a redemption code for 3 months of Nintendo Online (a $60 total value). Also: Nintendo Switch OLED vs…

Screenshot by Jason Perlow/ZDNET For decades, the friendship between Captain Kirk and Mr. Spock symbolized Star Trek’s core message of unity and hope. But for fans like me, their story felt unfinished — until now. As a lifelong Star Trek fan, I have always cherished the bond between Kirk and Spock. Their friendship was the heartbeat of the original series, embodying humanity’s best ideals by transcending logic and emotion. This is why Star Trek: Generations …