Tag: #AI

How Does AI Help Online Games Become Better?

Artificial intelligence creates a new dimension in which online gaming is made more personalized, intelligent and immersive interfacing. AI increases the interactivity of NPCs but also safeguards the players by strengthening their relationships with the games. So how does AI usher new possibilities for enriching online gaming? 

Some of the areas through which AI enhances the experience and immerses the players will be discussed below.

How does AI improve online gaming?

Here’s how AI improves online gaming:

1. Enhancing Non-Player Character Intelligence

AI-enhanced NPC is more realistic than it ever has been, reacting and adapting to gameplay not by following predefined patterns of behaviour, but by being able to dynamically respond to actual players’ actions within an interaction context that would make it feel real. 

NPCs are differently pre-programmed in their institutions in games like Red Dead Redemption 2 or The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim, depending on the player’s interactions with them.

2. More Intelligent Adversaries

AI raises the ante from simple attack patterns of enemies to behaviour that studies player tactics and modifies difficulty accordingly. AI bots are introduced in multiplayer online games to even out gameplay whenever a player’s absence happens. 

Call of Duty and Apex Legends have this type of system, using AI bots to keep the matches going.

3. Enhancements in Game Personalization

By conversing with an individual often, AI customizes gaming experiences according to user moods. Such features are chosen by employing machine learning algorithms that realize: how players are playing and therefore alter game mechanics, levels of difficulty, content, and recommendations.

The AI used by Steam and Xbox Game Pass recommends games based on user activity, helping them explore this top-rated app and enhancing overall player satisfaction.

4. Enhancing Graphics and Animation

Procedural generation aided by AI has allowed developers to build massive, beautiful worlds. Textures, landscapes, and character animation could be rendered using AI algorithms without making the game development process more time-consuming than real-world game layouts. 

Either way, presidents like Cyberpunk 2077 or No Man’s Sky, legacy games built on procedural generation, make varied environments through AI.

5. Stricter Anti-cheat Systems

As the game developer, I now think the fight against online cheating seems to be a losing cause, especially with artificial intelligence coming in quite strong against any type of cheating. 

AI observes and monitors the different player’s behaviour in real-time and thus recognizes differences in behaviour from the “normally” expected patterns like aimbots and wallhacks. Leaving the foul-play detection to Artificial Intelligence makes popular games such as Valorant and Fortnite fair-play and competition.

6. Procedural Content Generation on Steroids

Most AI will keep the player experience fresh and interesting within online games by procedurally generating dynamically unique levels, missions, and challenges. Minecraft and all Roguelike games have really gotten into this now: procedural generation every time you log in to create a unique experience that is replayed digitally for countless hours.

Conclusion 

AI is the next revolution in online gaming-smart, fair, and immersive. Intelligent NPCs, along with extremely secure anti-hack systems, are all enhanced thanks to AI in every aspect of gameplay. New levels of realism and personalization will be introduced by technological advances while always creating another dimension to what games might be. Making experiences richer, deeper, and far more personalized for players worldwide.

Dwayne – New AI Vasculitis Chatbot

Meet Dwayne, a new custom-built AI chatbot designed to provide crucial support and information to those affected by vasculitis. Named in honour of Dwayne, a man who tragically lost his life to the disease, the chatbot was created in collaboration with Vasculitis Ireland Awareness (VIA). Dwayne is trained on verified content from the VIA website, the Vasculitis UK website, and other documentation to offer accurate, accessible, and instant information. This initiative aims to bring the benefits of AI directly to patients, allowing them to find answers to their questions in seconds.
ReganByte is a Wicklow-based tech company specialising in custom AI solutions like chatbots and automation. The founder is David O’Regan, a former Product Manager (and a Cork-based musician in a past life) who spent 10 years in the corporate tech sector before setting up his own AI & Automation consultancy in 2024. He and his wife Ciara both know first-hand the effect that a rare disease diagnosis like Vasculitis can have.
Ciara was diagnosed with Vasculitis in 2021 after many years of confusing and sometimes debilitating symptoms. She is also now permanently visually impaired after suffering a sudden bilateral haemorrhage during a meeting at work. It took countless visits to doctors and consultants and an almost endless list of tests to arrive at Vasculitis, and yet her journey continues still with changes to medication and the constant threat of another flare.
Vasculitis is a rare and often misunderstood condition that causes inflammation of blood vessels, leading to serious complications. According to Vasculitis Ireland Awareness, many patients struggle to access reliable information before, after and in between their consultant visits. AI in healthcare has made significant and exciting progress in the areas of flare prediction and diagnosis, but patients still struggle to understand their own condition and are often left confused and without answers.
By carefully limiting Dwayne’s training data to trusted and verified sources, ReganByte ensures that patients and caregivers have access to up-to-date, accurate information in a matter of seconds without having to sift through mountains of data to find it.
“When I was diagnosed with vasculitis, I experienced first-hand how difficult it was to find the right information and support,” said Ciara. “Dwayne is more than just a chatbot. It’s a tribute, a source of reassurance, and a tool to help others with rare diseases find answers to their questions.” David added: “We see this as just the beginning. AI can revolutionise how rare disease communities access support, and we’re excited to see what else we can do with this technology.”
Looking ahead, ReganByte plans to expand Dwayne’s impact by partnering with other rare disease charities and health organisations to develop similar AI-powered solutions tailored to their needs. These are low cost but high impact solutions that can really make a difference and help organisations stand out and reach their members quicker.
Unveiled at a Northern Ireland Rare Disease Partnership event in Stormont Parliament Buildings in Belfast on Feb 26th, Dwayne will be officially released on Feb 28th, International Rare Disease Day.
Try it out at www.vasculitis-ia.org/ask-dwayne or reach out to ReganByte at david@reganbyte.com for a free demo or to discuss how this could help your organisation.

Types Of Modern Technology Used In Landscaping

In recent years, the landscaping industry has seen a significant transformation thanks to modern technology. From smart irrigation systems to drone-assisted landscape design, the amalgamation of technology and landscaping is not only making outdoor spaces more sustainable but also more efficient, aesthetically pleasing, and easier to manage. In this read, we’ll explore some of the modern technological innovations used in landscaping.

 

  1. Smart Irrigation Systems

 

Water conservation has become a critical focus for homeowners, landscapers, and municipalities alike. Traditional irrigation methods are often wasteful, relying on timers that do not account for changing weather conditions. Smart irrigation systems use advanced sensors, weather data, and real-time analytics to deliver water only when and where it’s needed.

 

These systems are equipped with features such as:

 

  • Soil moisture sensors: Measure the amount of moisture in the soil, ensuring that plants receive the optimal amount of water.
  • Weather-based adjustments: Using real-time weather data, these systems can skip watering cycles when it’s raining or adjust the watering schedule during hot, dry spells.
  • Remote control: Homeowners can control their irrigation system via smartphone apps, allowing for adjustments from anywhere.

By reducing water waste and improving plant health, smart irrigation systems are playing a key role in creating sustainable landscapes.

 

  1. Robotic Lawn Mowers

 

Lawn care has traditionally been a time-consuming task that requires regular attention. However, with the advent of robotic lawn mowers, homeowners can now maintain their lawns with little to no effort. These automated devices use advanced sensors, GPS navigation, and pre-programmed schedules to mow the lawn efficiently.

 

Benefits of robotic lawn mowers include:

 

  • Time-saving: Set them to mow at specific times, and they work autonomously.
  • Precision: These mowers are programmed to cut the grass at an even height, ensuring a manicured lawn.
  • Eco-friendly: Most robotic lawn mowers are battery-powered, producing fewer emissions than gas-powered alternatives.

With their ability to work quietly and efficiently, robotic mowers are ideal for homeowners who want a well-maintained lawn without the hassle.

 

  1. Drone-Assisted Landscaping

 

Drones are revolutionizing the way landscaping projects are designed and managed. In the past, landscape designers had to rely on sketches and manual measurements to visualize and plan a space. Today, drones can capture high-resolution aerial imagery, providing a bird’s-eye view of the property and helping designers make more accurate assessments.

 

Key advantages of drone technology in landscaping include:

 

  • Precision mapping: Drones equipped with high-definition cameras and LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) sensors can generate precise 3D maps of the terrain. This is particularly useful for large or complex sites.
  • Topographic surveys: Drones can quickly scan and analyze topography, which is critical for designing effective drainage systems or selecting appropriate plant species.
  • Visual planning: Drones allow designers to create virtual models of landscaping designs that can be viewed from all angles, helping clients visualize the final result before implementation begins.

By streamlining the design process and offering enhanced accuracy, drones are becoming an invaluable tool for landscape architects and contractors.

 

  1. LED Outdoor Lighting

 

Landscape lighting has long been a vital aspect of outdoor design, but with the rise of LED technology, outdoor lighting has become more energy-efficient, durable, and customizable than ever before. LED lights use significantly less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and last much longer, making them a cost-effective solution for homeowners and businesses alike.

Modern LED outdoor lighting can:

  • Change colors: With smart LED bulbs, you can customize the color of your outdoor lights to fit different seasons, occasions, or moods.
  • Be integrated into smart home systems: LED lights can be controlled remotely using apps or integrated with voice assistants like Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant.
  • Highlight features: Landscape lighting can be used to accentuate specific areas of the garden, such as fountains, pathways, or trees, creating a dramatic nighttime effect.

LED lighting enhances the beauty of outdoor spaces while offering long-term energy savings.

 

  1. Augmented Reality (AR) for Landscape Design

 

Augmented Reality (AR) is another innovative technology making waves in the landscaping industry. AR allows designers and homeowners to superimpose digital images of plants, structures, and other elements onto real-world environments through their smartphones or AR glasses. This provides a way to visualize how certain elements will look in a specific space before they are physically installed. It is commonly used by top landscaping companies in Ireland such as brosnanlandscapingandpaving.ie. 

 

Key benefits of AR in landscaping include:

 

  • Enhanced visualization: Instead of relying on static sketches, users can see how their outdoor space will look in real-time.
  • Instant adjustments: Designers can quickly modify elements of the design and immediately see how those changes affect the overall aesthetic.
  • Cost-effective planning: By using AR to visualize designs, clients can avoid costly mistakes and redesigns once construction begins.

With AR technology, both professionals and homeowners can experience a new level of design flexibility and creativity.

 

  1. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Landscaping Software

 

Artificial intelligence is playing an increasingly important role in the landscaping industry, particularly in the form of AI-powered landscaping software. These programs can help landscapers optimize designs, manage maintenance schedules, and even predict plant growth.

 

Some ways AI is being integrated into landscaping include:

 

  • Landscape design software: AI-powered tools can generate designs based on input criteria such as the size of the space, the climate, and the client’s preferences. These tools can analyze thousands of design possibilities in minutes, making the design process faster and more efficient.
  • Maintenance forecasting: AI can track and analyze weather patterns, plant health, and soil conditions to recommend the optimal care schedule for a landscape.
  • Plant identification and care: AI-powered apps can recognize plants through photographs and provide care recommendations, helping homeowners take better care of their gardens.

AI is helping landscapers work smarter, not harder, and offering a more tailored approach to landscape management.

 

Final Word

The integration of modern technology into landscaping has opened up new possibilities for creating functional, beautiful, and sustainable outdoor spaces. From smart irrigation systems and robotic lawn mowers to drone-assisted design and augmented reality, technology is enhancing every aspect of the landscaping process. Whether you’re a homeowner looking to improve your garden, or a professional landscaper aiming to streamline your operations, these innovative tools are sure to shape the future of landscaping for years to come.By embracing these advancements, we can not only improve the aesthetics and functionality of our outdoor spaces but also contribute to a more sustainable and efficient world. As technology continues to evolve, the landscaping industry will likely see even more exciting innovations.

 

Minister Lawless announces €23.6 million Research Ireland Frontiers for the Future funding

Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, James Lawless TD has today announced €23.6 million to support 23 research projects focused on tackling challenges in AI, healthcare, agriculture, energy, and transport.

The Research Ireland Frontiers for the Future Programme funds high-risk, high-reward research programmes and innovative, collaborative research with the potential to deliver economic and societal impact.

Announcing the awards, Minister Lawless said: “The Research Ireland Frontiers for the Future programme supports the development of world-class research across a range of disciplines. The awardees – spanning 9 research institutions nationwide – have brought forward novel and innovative ideas with strong potential to deliver impactful solutions for major challenges facing society today. The programme itself promotes gender balance and provides opportunities for emerging investigators returning to research. I look forward to seeing the awardees’ progress over the coming years.”

Welcoming the announcement, Celine Fitzgerald, Interim Chief Executive of Research Ireland, commented: “Our Frontiers for the Future Programme is driven by feedback from the research community and represents a strong commitment to developing future talent in key areas. These 23 awards will fund a total of 86 research positions, comprising Postdocs, PhDs, Research Assistants and support staff. I’m very pleased with the opportunities that this targeted investment is creating, and greatly encouraged that crucial research on pressing issues will be facilitated as a result.”
Examples of the initiatives being funded include:

 

  • AI for diagnostic imaging, with a focus on cardiac MRI (Dublin City University);
  • Investigating long-term effects of COVID-19 on children’s gut bacteria, social skills, and language development (RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences);
  • Mining micro-organisms living in seaweed to identify novel compounds with strong potential for crop improvement (Technological University of the Shannon);
  • Machine Learning to tackle complex issues using varied and sensitive data whilst ensuring data privacy and clear communication (University of Limerick).

The Frontiers for the Future awardees are from the following research bodies: RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin City University, Trinity College Dublin, Teagasc, Technological University of the Shannon, University College Dublin, University College Cork, University of Galway, and University of Limerick.

Workhuman’s Human Intelligence 2025 Release

Workhuman, the most successful Irish-born technology company and the world’s #1 employee recognition provider, has once again raised the bar in HR technology by announcing The Human Intelligence 2025 Release, the biggest launch in company history. During Workhuman’s first-ever digital event, hosted by founder and CEO Eric Mosley, the company showcased its next-generation data and AI innovations designed to empower leaders and employees with actionable, real-time insights that encourage more engaged, inclusive, and productive company cultures. The Human Intelligence 2025 Release reimagines how HR leverages data to transform the HR technology category. It will have a positive impact on the future of HR by way of improved efficiencies scaled across an entire organisation.

The Human Intelligence 2025 Release supercharges Workhuman’s Social Recognition platform, embedding into everyday workflows AI-powered features such as Workhuman iQ Snapshots, Recognition Advisor, Culture Hub, and Reward Stories. These easy-to-use tools ensure that employees’ shared recognition moments equip HR leaders with the most impactful data and insights that contribute to business ROI. The result is Human Intelligence, which delivers unparalleled clarity on workforce dynamics, turning every recognition moment into an opportunity for cultural and business transformation.

“Workhuman’s Human Intelligence platform brings AI to a valuable new source of business information: employee recognition and feedback,” said Josh Bersin, Global HR Industry Analyst, CEO and Founder of The Josh Bersin Company. “This information helps leaders identify individual and organisational strengths, weaknesses, skills, and opportunities for development in an exciting new way.”

The Human Intelligence 2025 Release includes:

  • Workhuman iQ Snapshots – Real-time, powerful insights that highlight the impact recognition has on retention and engagement as well as skill-based insights that are crucial to professional development and talent management. By democratising data for all employees, these insights empower smarter decision-making that drives performance and strategic growth. This feature elevates recognition by delivering data and research-based insights before and after users take action within the platform. Snapshots provide leaders with actionable intelligence to strengthen teams, reduce turnover, and unlock key skills – all fueling growth and organisational excellence.

  • Recognition Advisor – A real-time AI coach that trains users how to deliver recognition that amplifies every “good job” and “thank you” message to be more personal, meaningful, and tied to company values. Recognition Advisor provides customer-specific, practical example language that helps elevate the award message using AI. Embedding Workhuman’s Recognition Done Right principles ensures program success while ensuring each award message has the greatest impact on the individual. This builds confidence, streamlines thoughtful recognition, and boosts engagement in real time. Beyond driving participation, it generates high-quality, actionable insights into skills, culture, retention, and performance – empowering organisations with strategic Human Intelligence™ to thrive.

  • Culture Hub – A personalised, AI-powered Hub that curates relevant recognition moments while showcasing impactful recognition moments that support key initiatives and company values while strengthening employee collaboration and motivation. Culture Hub drives global participation, generates transformative insights, and amplifies recognition with viral momentum to sustain engagement and program success. Highlighting personalised content reinforces company values at scale, aligns with business objectives, and instills positive behaviors in the long-term. Designed to include everyone—from new hires to seasoned employees—Culture Hub fosters belonging and empowers active participation across the entire workforce.

  • Reward Stories – Sharable, feel-good recognition moments that represent the life-enriching impact that recognition and redemption have on employees. Thes posts allow award recipients the opportunity to express their gratitude for the coworkers who recognise them and the company that provides such opportunities. Reward Stories, featured on the Culture Hub, also gives nominators the ability to pause and reflect on the shared success, hard work, collaboration and support they’ve encountered while motivating other employees to pursue such experiences through their contributions at work.

 

“Human Intelligence is an entirely new way of approaching data, using it to empower humans with the knowledge they need to lead with purpose and compassion,” said Mosley. “Embedding culture and insights into the flow of work enables organisations to cultivate magnetic workplace environments where every recognition moment drives meaningful business outcomes.”

These intuitive, powerful tools – individually and combined – give organisations the resources and capabilities to do recognition right. They surface content that celebrates the goodness of making work human and brings a company’s culture and values to life in real-time.

“AI and data are tools—but humanity is the foundation,” Mosley continues. “Human Intelligence is a testament to our belief that when organisations recognise and understand their people, they unlock their greatest potential. The future of work is human.”

“One of the things that sets Workhuman apart is its ability to be really sophisticated about telling a story with the data,” said Lisa Monaco, SVP, Employee Experience at Moody’s. “Workhuman is doubling down on that through the Human Intelligence tools – and the functions embedded in the organisation, like Workhuman iQ, which can really do this work and be an extension for our companies. I think this is so very valuable.”

To learn more about the innovations announced in Workhuman’s Human Intelligence 2025 Release, please watch the full digital event here. For more information about how a Workhuman-powered Social Recognition program can help organisations get the most from their people, AI, and HR investments, please visit www.workhuman.com/platform/social-recognition/.

Google-led initiative to support Irish businesses returns

Google is today calling for entries to the third annual You’re the Business Competition. Delivered in partnership with Enterprise Ireland (EI) and the Local Enterprise Offices (LEO) , You’re the Business is an online platform offering digital training and tools to businesses in Ireland free of charge. The competition element will reward businesses that have demonstrated a commitment to digital at different stages of their journey with those selected set to receive a Google digital support package, one-to-one mentoring and the chance to win a bespoke, AI-powered advertising campaign.

The competition is open to businesses across Ireland. Entrants must submit a written entry no longer than 200 words telling their story around how they’ve utilised or enhanced digital skills in order to help their business grow or succeed online.

The judging panel, comprising representatives from Google, EI, and the LEO’s with You’re the Business alumni and past winner Sarah Timony of ADAPTAFASHION will assess the entries based on their response to the prompt ‘Tell us why you’re the business’. A PDF must be uploaded to the competition submission box on the You’re the Business website by 21 March 2025.

This year’s initiative takes on a new AI-focus. The You’re the Business online platform has access to new training modules where users can explore AI tools and learn how AI can help them prepare for the future. Selected businesses will receive a digital support package from Google which includes a one-year Google Workspace Business Standard subscription with access to AI-powered tools like Gemini Advanced and NotebookLM and a one-to-one consultation from Google experts on how to get the best out of Google Workspace. Winners will also receive a You’re the Business trophy and digital assets and will be invited to attend a dedicated Winners event in Google’s EMEA HQ in Dublin.

New this year, the company or founder that has demonstrated the most creative or effective use of digital skills to grow or enhance their business will receive a one-of-a-kind prize; a bespoke AI-powered advertising campaign, created by Google AI with a team of experts in partnership with the winner.

Cera Ward, Managing Director at Google Ireland  said:

“We are so excited to launch the third-annual You’re the Business competition and look forward to learning more about these companies, their challenges, and digital ambitions. We know that AI has the power to revolutionise the way we do business which is why we have made it a key focus of this year’s initiative. Google wants to support these companies as they take the next steps on their AI journey.”

 

Carol Gibbons, Divisional Manager. Entrepreneurship, Regions & Local Enterprise at Enterprise Ireland:

“Enterprise Ireland and the Local Enterprise Offices are committed to empowering Irish businesses to succeed online. Our collaboration with Google on initiatives like this competition is a key part of that commitment. We are thrilled to partner with Google on this exciting opportunity and look forward to discovering the innovative ways businesses are approaching their digital growth. We’re here to support them every step of the way on their digital journey.”

John Magee, Chair of the Local Enterprise Office Network said:

“We are committed to helping Irish businesses thrive in a digital world, and this initiative, delivered in partnership with Google, is just one of the many ways we continue to support our clients on their digital journey.”

Speaking at the launch announcement, past winner and judge for the 2025 competition Sarah Timony [pictured], CEO and Founder, ADAPTAFASHION:

“Participating in the You’re the Business competition was a fantastic experience. The programme provided me with invaluable support and resources that directly contributed to the growth and success of ADAPTAFASHION. I’m so grateful for the opportunity and would encourage fellow founders to participate in this year’s initiative to see how far digital can bring you on your growth journey.”

Entries are open now with further information on the You’re the Business competition available at: g.co/yourethebusiness

How is AI changing the slot game industry?

Artificial intelligence has taken the world by storm, and it managed to revolutionize the way we live our lives within just a few years. The gambling and slots industry also sees immense benefits from AI, all of which can help expand how AI is used, but also the benefits that come from such a technology in the first place. Here’s how you can use AI in the slot game world, and some of the potential future uses for it as well!

AI expanding the player experience in the case of free slots

Whether you use this website for playing slots or other platforms, it’s always important to know that the gambling industry can be very dynamic. There are ever-changing odds and trends, all of which can have a major impact on the gambling process and experience as a whole. How does AI fit in? The role of AI is to help you identify odds, trends and give you an idea of what you can expect.

Bettors will find it easier to figure out how to approach any gambling opportunity, since they have an idea of the odds. Gambling companies on the other hand can find it easier to narrow down trends, and thus it’s easier for them to better adapt to the situation.

Additionally, AI can be very effective when it comes to enhancing online slots in particular. It can:

  • AI can make adjustments in real time, thus ensuring that you still have fair chances of winning the bonus you want.
  • Just like you get recommendations via Spotify for new songs, AI can recommend similar slot games. It will make it easier for players to find new games.
  • AI chatbots can provide extensive customer support, thus removing the huge load that can appear in the case of regular users. 

Adding new elements to slot gameplay

A core advantage of AI comes from the adaptability that it can provide. It helps add a new element of enjoyment. That’s the reason why many slot games, and not only those, are continually incorporating interactive components, where you have choices that impact the outcome of a game. 

How does this help slot games? You can have AI predict various winning lines, or slot games can use AI to pop up limited time deals. Or, of course, AI can adjust the results if there were multiple losses, so it becomes a fairer experience. 

Identifying any cheating and boosting safety for slot players

AI isn’t only suitable for identifying odds or making the gameplay more interesting. The primary focus is to ensure that you also have safe gameplay, and that’s where AI can be very good. It can monitor player actions and identify times when there are any signs of cheating. If the actions of a player are alarming, AI can automatically stop the account, impose limitations or ensure that there are certain ways to stop the player from manipulating the system.

Some people will try to game the system, in an effort to win with ease. However, the role of AI in gambling is to help prevent that, while ensuring the process is suitable and fair for everyone. It’s very effective and it can deliver a more cohesive result. That does happen in the case of slot games, where various players will try to reap the benefits and game the system at times. 

Improved personalization

A core focus when it comes to using AI in gambling is to help personalize the experience. These days, customers are very sophisticated, and they always know what they are looking for. The role of AI here is to adapt to what customers want, and ensure that every feature can be adapted and personalized. Not only does it add to the process, it also helps enhance the gameplay, something that can push the boundaries in a very empowering manner. 

Personalization can also arise in different ways. For example, AI can track and see when you are betting only on high cash prizes. And, because of that, it adapts the offers to ensure that’s the type of stuff you can bet on the most. The same thing is valid when it comes to going for smaller rewards. It sees that you like consistent wins, and that will help convey a better result and experience for the audience. 

There’s also the other pattern, when you will sometimes find games too easy, in which case AI sees that. It will automatically ramp up the difficulty, if needed. Or if the difficulty is too high, it will make things simpler, so everyone can have a great time. These instances of personalization are amazing, and they truly show the value provided, along with an excellent attention to detail. 

Is AI the future for gambling?

AI certainly has a major role when it comes to gambling, for a variety of reasons. It allows companies to further enhance their games, while also making it easier to adapt to what customers expect. And then we also have AI-powered elements added into games, so they become more engaging, rewarding and interesting for the target audience.

Additionally, AI can study player patters, they can make it easier to gain insights, while also ensuring that the entire gambling experience is safe for users. In the future, we can see AI being integrated with other technologies, including VR, as a way to further enhance the gameplay and push it to the next level with all users. Rest assured that AI is indeed a core component for the future of gambling, and it brings inherent potential. While it will take time for new applications of AI to arise, those might very well become the core component of the industry going forward!

How Technology is Transforming Traditional Industries

From online shopping and personal assistants that know you by name, to self-driving cars, technology is revolutionizing industries and the lives of consumers at breathtaking speeds. While startups often steal the spotlight, traditional industries around the world are also riding the technology wave to stay relevant, efficient, and competitive. This blog takes a deep dive into how technology is reshaping these sectors and introduces you to noteworthy examples.

The Digital Overhaul of Traditional Industries

Technology isn’t just enhancing old practices—it’s redefining them. Here’s how traditional industries are welcoming innovation and using it to their advantage.

1. Modernizing Manufacturing with Smart Technology 

Manufacturing is at the heart of our economy, and recent advancements, such as the Internet of Things (IoT – think of a web of all connected devices and Big Data), robotics, and AI, have elevated its efficiency and supercharged productivity. Smart factories equipped with IoT sensors now offer real-time data on equipment health, production rates, and supply chain dynamics. This allows manufacturers to enhance productivity while minimizing delays and costs. 

Consider how AI-powered robots are streamlining assembly lines, reducing chances of human error, and accelerating production timelines—all critical in today’s demand-driven business landscape.

2. Retail Joins the e-Commerce Revolution 

Retail has been one of the most visibly impacted sectors. Once synonymous with physical stores, modern retail has evolved into a digital-first industry. Online platforms like Amazon and Shopify have democratized access, allowing small businesses to thrive globally. 

Technology like augmented reality (AR – think overlaying digital content on the brick and mortar world a la Pokemon Go) is also breaking new ground in an ever-more engaging consumer experience. Imagine buying furniture online and “placing” a virtual couch in your living room through your phone camera. Retailers are using AR to ensure customers make confident purchasing decisions – and improve the effectiveness of their marketing. 

3. Energizing Agriculture with Precision Tech 

The traditional agriculture industry has undergone major technological upgrades. Precision agriculture uses GPS, drones, and AI to monitor crops, optimize irrigation, and predict harvest yields. Farmers can now ensure efficient resource use and achieve higher profitability. 

For example, drones are being deployed to survey acres of farmland in minutes, providing farmers with actionable data on pest infestations and weather impacts. This minimizes waste while boosting yields significantly.

4. Healthcare in the Age of Artificial Intelligence 

Telemedicine, robotic surgeries, and AI-based diagnostics are revolutionizing healthcare. For instance, wearable health devices can now track vitals such as heart rate, oxygen levels, and sleep patterns, empowering individuals to better manage chronic diseases while directing actionable data to healthcare providers. 

AI’s role in diagnostics is another game-changer. Advanced AI-powered tools are being used to detect conditions such as cancer far earlier than traditional methods, significantly improving patient outcomes.

5. Reimagining Entertainment and Gambling 

Technology has transformed how we consume entertainment, including the casino and gambling industry, particularly in places like New Jersey. The state has embraced technology to offer a thriving online casino market, allowing residents and visitors to experience the thrill of gambling from their own devices. 

With features like live dealer games and virtual slot machines now accessible digitally, online casinos offer the same excitement as brick-and-mortar setups—with the added convenience of playing anytime, anywhere. Take FanDuel Casino, for example, which offers a range of traditional casino games like blackjack and roulette along with sports betting options, all on one platform.

6. Optimizing Supply Chain Management 

Finding efficiencies in supply chain operations has always been crucial for industries like logistics, retail, and manufacturing. Technology is making it possible to achieve unprecedented levels of optimization. 

For example, blockchain is helping supply chain managers improve transparency by offering a digital ledger for tracking goods across the supply network. Meanwhile, AI enhances real-time tracking, ensuring that deliveries are on time and that companies avoid bottlenecks.

Out With the Old and in With the New 

Traditional industries are no longer confined to outdated tools and processes. Instead, they’re proving that adaptation is the key to resilience and success. Technology has become not just a tool but a driving force behind this transformation. 

Industries such as manufacturing, agriculture, and even regulated markets like gambling in New Jersey are demonstrating how innovation can unlock new opportunities and efficiencies. Whether investing in IoT, leveraging AI, or redefining customer experiences with virtual tools, these sectors remind us that there is no limit to what technology can achieve.

 

Workers in the data and analytics industry are optimistic of pay rises and job stability into 2025

A recent study of data analytics and AI workers in Ireland has revealed a positive outlook for salary growth with 63% expecting to see a salary increase of up to 10% this year. Workers in the data and analytics industry are optimistic of pay rises and job stability into 2025

The survey by the Analytics Institute and leader in data and AI, SAS, also reflects optimism around hiring as 37% of organisations in Ireland confirmed their intention to increase their data workforce by more than 10% this year. Job stability looks positive too, with 81% of employees intending to stay with their current employer in 2025.

Respondents revealed that job satisfaction remains high with nearly three-quarters of workers saying they would recommend their employer to a friend, while 39% said they enjoy their current role “a lot” and 50% said they enjoy it “a moderate amount”.

The findings have been revealed in the Data Salaries and Job Sentiment Analysis 2025 report, which surveyed 200 professional Analytics Institute members working in data analytics and AI roles. It highlights the latest trends shaping the data sector from salary expectations and job opportunities to employee sentiment and training requirements.

Alan McGlinn, Ireland Country Lead at SAS, said: “These findings prove that demand for AI and data-related skills remains high, and this is reflected in salary levels, increases and rising optimism about wage growth in 2025.

“While employees with these skills are in demand, those with the right combination of skills will be in particularly high demand. The findings reveal that those who changed employer within the last 12 months received significantly higher salary increases, and we might start to see more rapid career progression for some individuals and higher staff turnover.”

Data visualisation and BI reporting were revealed as critical skills to the sector, with 70% of people still believing them to be important, along with project management. Meanwhile, the report showed statistical modelling and prescriptive analytics as declining skills areas due to reduced demand for traditional predictive approaches. Not surprisingly machine learning and AI has gained consistent importance, growing from 30% in 2023 to 34% in 2025.

Lorcan Malone, Chief Executive of The Analytics Institute, said this sheds light on the key drivers for talent retention and workforce upskilling within the data analytics and AI sectors.

He added: “By understanding these dynamics, businesses can better position themselves to attract, develop, and retain the talent they need to stay ahead in an increasingly competitive market.

“The rapid expansion of AI technologies is beginning to reshape the world of work. As companies seek to leverage these technologies, they must ensure their teams are not only equipped with the latest technical skills but also able to adapt to a constantly changing landscape. This makes investing in talent development and upskilling initiatives more critical than ever.”

While employees with these skills are in demand, those with the right combination of skills will be in particularly high demand. For those who had changed jobs within the last 12 months, the top reasons employees gave for this were:

●      Increased salary (67%)

●      For a more interesting and challenging role (32%)

●      For increased remuneration (21%)

●      For better working conditions / culture (14%)

For those who hadn’t changed employers in the last 12 months, a high proportion had still received a salary increase, but beyond this, other important factors for jobs satisfaction they highlighted included:

●      Meaningful work (64%)

●      Supportive boss (48%)

●      Hybrid work (43%)

●      Career progression (32%)

●      Nice colleagues (30%)

Overall, the report proves that as businesses increasingly rely on data -driven insights to make critical decisions, the demand for professionals with key skills remains high. Organisations that understand the incremental gains that employees with these core skills can deliver across their business, are willing to reward the best performers with significantly higher salaries and the added support to do their jobs well.

To find out more about how SAS can help businesses to work smarter with data and AI visit www.sas.com.

The full report can be found here – analyticsinstitute.org/resource/salaries-and-sentiment-analysis-2025.html