This news brief covers recent developments and applications of artificial intelligence across various sectors. Google is testing and launching AI-driven features like Audio Overviews in Search, which provide short, podcast-like summaries of search results using Gemini models. Apple is experimenting with AI-generated tags in the App Store to enhance app discovery. In education, Monmouth College is actively integrating AI to personalize learning and improve teaching methods, while the St. Joseph County Public Library is offering free AI training workshops. For campus safety, Robinson ISD is implementing Volt AI, an AI-powered security system that detects threats in real-time. Cybersecurity for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) is also being transformed with AI-powered tools to defend against cyberattacks. Johnson Controls leaders have been recognized for their AI innovation in transforming customer and employee experiences. The role of AI in addressing loneliness is being explored by therapy and dating apps, though concerns remain about AI replacing genuine human connection. Finally, AI researchers and engineers are in high demand in the job market, with companies actively recruiting AI talent.
Key Takeaways
- Google is launching Audio Overviews, an AI-powered feature that provides audio summaries of search results.
- Apple is beta testing AI-generated tags in the App Store to improve app discovery.
- Monmouth College is integrating AI into its curriculum to enhance learning and teaching.
- The St. Joseph County Public Library is offering free AI training workshops to the public.
- Robinson ISD is implementing Volt AI, an AI security system, to improve campus safety.
- AI-powered tools are vital for SMBs to defend against increasing cyber threats.
- Johnson Controls leaders recognized for AI innovation in customer and employee experiences.
- Therapy and dating apps are exploring AI's role in addressing loneliness, but concerns exist about replacing human connection.
- AI researchers and engineers are highly sought-after in the current job market.
Google's Audio Overviews speak search results aloud for you
Google launched a new Search Labs feature called Audio Overviews. This feature uses Google's AI to create short, podcast-like summaries of search results. These audio clips, lasting 30-45 seconds, provide answers to queries without requiring reading. Users can access Audio Overviews by opting into the Search Labs program. Currently, Audio Overviews are available only in the US.
Google tests AI Audio Overviews for search queries
Google is testing Audio Overviews in Search, using its Gemini models to help people understand information in a new way. This feature, first introduced in NotebookLM, is now available in Google's experimental program, Search Labs. When Google thinks it would be useful, users will see an option to generate a short Audio Overview for certain search queries. The audio player includes controls for play/pause, volume, and playback speed, and it shows links to the sources used.
Google Search answers questions with AI podcast hosts
Google Search now offers AI-generated summaries with its Audio Overviews feature. This feature uses Google Gemini models to create short audio clips that sound like a conversation between two hosts. While not ideal for basic searches, it's helpful for in-depth, hands-free responses. Audio Overviews pulls information from top Google Search results and compiles them into an audio summary, with adjustable volume and playback speed.
Monmouth College embraces AI in higher education
Monmouth College is actively exploring the use of artificial intelligence to enhance education. President Patricia Draves is focused on AI as part of the college's digital transformation. The college plans to train faculty, staff, and students on AI tools. They aim to use AI to personalize learning, identify student weaknesses, and improve tutoring services. The college sees AI as a way to increase expectations for students and drive progress.
Monmouth College prepares for AI's impact on education
Monmouth College is preparing for artificial intelligence to change higher education. President Patricia Draves believes AI can improve learning and teaching. The college will train faculty and students to use AI tools effectively. Dean Mark Willhardt notes AI is a disrupter, similar to the printing press and the internet. The college aims to find a balance between institutional policies and how each subject uses AI.
AI cybersecurity transformation is vital for SMB survival
Small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) face increasing cyber threats that can lead to bankruptcy. Many SMBs are underprepared, mistakenly believing they are not targets. To survive, SMBs must use AI-powered tools to defend against cyberattacks. Key steps include knowing their data, taking care of basic security measures, training their team, and preparing for inevitable attacks. Managed security service providers (MSSPs) and AI can help SMBs maximize their defense.
App Store beta tests AI-generated tags for better app discovery
Apple is testing new AI-generated tags in the App Store beta to improve how apps are found. These tags use screenshots and other metadata to categorize apps better. Developers will be able to control which AI-assigned tags are associated with their apps. Humans will review the tags before they go live. The changes are currently in the developer beta build of iOS 26.
Johnson Controls leaders recognized for AI innovation
Vijay Sankaran and Josh Lee, leaders at Johnson Controls, have been named to Constellation Research's Artificial Intelligence 150 list. This list recognizes executives leading AI transformation efforts globally. Vijay Sankaran is transforming customer and employee experiences using AI. Josh Lee is modernizing data platforms and focusing on AI best practices. Both are driving AI adoption within Johnson Controls and for its customers.
Can AI solve loneliness? Therapy and dating apps explore AI's role
People are increasingly using AI companions like ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini. Some, like Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff, even use ChatGPT as a therapist. While AI can provide services and solve problems, Hinge CEO Justin McLeod is concerned about people using AI as an emotional companion. He believes relationships with AI lack the mutual connection and vulnerability needed for fulfillment. However, dating apps like Hinge are using AI to help users find matches and improve their profiles.
Robinson ISD adds AI security system for campus safety
Robinson ISD is implementing Volt AI, an AI-powered security system, to improve campus safety. The system uses existing cameras to detect threats like weapons and medical emergencies. It alerts administrators in seconds, providing real-time monitoring. The AI can also identify fights, large crowds, and unattended bags. Robinson ISD is among the first in the area to use this technology.
Top tech jobs are in AI, recruiters say
AI researchers and engineers are the most sought-after tech job candidates. Companies are looking for people with machine learning skills. Recruiters say ideal candidates have advanced degrees and years of experience. Soft skills, like emotional intelligence and communication, are also important. Some top companies are actively recruiting AI talent and offering high salaries.
Free AI training offered at St. Joseph County Public Library
The St. Joseph County Public Library is offering free AI training workshops for adults. South Bend Code School is partnering with the library to provide the training. The workshops will teach people how to use tools like ChatGPT for career growth, budgeting, and planning. The workshops are being held at the Main Library in Downtown South Bend.
Sources
- Too Busy to Read? Google's Audio Overviews Summarize Your Search Results Aloud
- Google tests Audio Overviews for Search queries
- Google Search uses AI-generated podcast hosts to answer your questions
- The 'Coming Wave' has Arrived: Monmouth College and Artificial Intelligence
- The “Coming Wave” Has Arrived: Monmouth College and Artificial
- SMB survival requires cybersecurity transformation with AI
- The App Store's new AI-generated tags are live in the beta
- Two Johnson Controls leaders named to Constellation Research Artificial Intelligence 150 list
- Can ChatGPT Conquer Loneliness? The Pivot To AI In Therapy And Dating
- Robinson ISD implementing AI security system
- The hottest tech job candidates in America — and what you need to become one — according to top recruiters
- Free A.I. training at the St. Joseph County Public Library starts today