Dell Technologies Accelerates AI Innovation and Strengthens Cybersecurity Strategies for Microsoft Customers

Dell Technologies has announced new AI innovations to help Dell and Microsoft customers simplify AI adoption, accelerate deployment, and manage demanding workloads in multicloud environments. These advancements also aim to strengthen cybersecurity and data protection for joint customers.

Accelerating AI adoption and performance

Dell’s new AI offerings include the expansion of the Dell AI Factory with solutions developed in collaboration with Microsoft. One notable addition is the Dell APEX file storage for Microsoft Azure, a Dell managed service designed for superior AI workload performance, scalability and data services. This service promises easier deployment and management making it ideal for multicloud environments.

Additionally, Dell has introduced several services to aid organisations in adopting AI and creating custom AI solutions. These services include Accelerator Services for Copilot+ PCs, Services for Microsoft Copilot Studio and Azure AI Studio, and Implementation Services for Microsoft Azure AI Service. These offerings are intended to enhance productivity and support new business opportunities through AI application development.

Comprehensive data protection and security

On the cybersecurity front, Dell has also unveiled the Dell APEX Protection Services for Microsoft Azure, which provided Dell managed AI-powered cloud data protection and cyber resilience. This service aims to improve operational efficiency, enhance data protection with advanced data reduction capabilities and offer robust cyber recovery options.

Moreover, Dell has introduced new security services tailored for Microsoft environments. These services include advisory services for cybersecurity maturity model certification (CCMC) for Microsoft and Managed Detection and Response with Microsoft, helping customers align their cybersecurity posture and focus on core business activities while Dell experts monitor and respond to threats 24/7.

Arthur Lewis, President, Infrastructure Solutions Group, Dell Technologies said “Organisations modernising their IT strategies to support emerging workloads, like AI, need solutions that help them innovate faster, control costs and protect data across multicloud environments. Our storage software, data protection and services advancements help customers in Microsoft environments accelerate their transformation efforts quickly and securely.”

Aung Oo, VP of Azure Storage, Microsoft said “Our customers are looking for ways to modernise their IT infrastructure and adopt hybrid cloud services safely and securely. “Dell Technologies is enabling their customers to bring their existing knowledge, trusted platforms, and enterprise data to Azure to speed the adoption of critical technologies including Azure AI Services.”

Dell Technologies innovation highlight company’s commitment to helping businesses modernise their IT infrastructure while securely and efficiently adopting advanced AI solutions. With enhanced collaboration with Microsoft, Dell is providing the tools and services businesses need to thrive in today’s digital-first, multicloud world.

Availability

  • Dell-managed Dell APEX File Storage for Microsoft Azure will be available in public preview beginning in the first half of 2025.
  • Accelerator Services for Copilot+ PCs are available now.
  • Services for Microsoft Copilot Studio are available now.
  • Services for Microsoft Azure AI Studio are available now.
  • Implementation Services for Microsoft Azure AI Service are available now.
  • Dell APEX Protection Services for Microsoft Azure will be available beginning in the first half of 2025.
  • Advisory Services for Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) for Microsoft are available now.
  • Managed Detection and Response with Microsoft services are available now.

Dell Technologies expands AI innovations at the Edge

Dell Technologies has announced upgrades to its Dell NativeEdge software, making it easier for businesses in Ireland to deploy and use AI at the edge. This  as companies increasingly generate and process data outside traditional data centres in the AI era.

Why It Matters?

According to Gartner report “by 2025, more than 50% of enterprise – managed data will be created and processed outside data centres or the cloud”. As data and AI workloads move to the edge, businesses need robust, connected and secure systems to manage AI models across various locations.

Dell NativeEdge advancements, part of Dell AI Factory capabilities, address these needs and offer organisations across Ireland AI software integrations and high-availability capabilities to provide more resiliency and reliability in the deployment and management of AI at the edge.

Boost Edge and AI Workload Efficiency with NativeEdge

Dell NativeEdge is a unique software platform that secures device setup at scale, offers remote management, and manages applications across multiple clouds. The new updates enable high-availability clustering for devices like Dell PowerEdge servers and OptiPlex workstations.

This means high-availability features ensure critical processes and AI workloads continue smoothly even if there are network issues or device failures. It easily handles changing workloads in environments like retail stores and utility companies and works seamlessly with Dell storage solutions to support AI model training and deployment.

NativeEdge AI Software Integrations Simplify Edge AI Deployments

Deploying AI at the edge can be complex and time-consuming. Dell offers over 55 pre-built NativeEdge Blueprints to automate and speed up this process, reducing manual setup and errors. The expanded catalogue now includes open-source tools that support continuous AI workflows for quick deployment of AI solutions.

Dell also offers services to help organisations design and develop custom AI solutions using NativeEdge software.

“AI is accelerating new edge workloads and opportunities at an unprecedented rate, and organizations across industries are asking for simpler and more reliable ways to use AI at the edge,” said Gil Shneorson, Senior Vice President, Solutions and Platforms, Dell Technologies“Our NativeEdge expansion automates the deployment and management of edge AI workloads, with features to support business continuity, so organizations can continually use the latest AI advancements at the edge to drive revenues and positive customer outcomes.”

“With over 1,000 IoT-enabled facilities, Dell NativeEdge helps us monitor real-time infrastructure elements, ensuring optimal conditions for our produce, and receive comprehensive insights into our produce packaging operations,” said Keith Bradley, Vice President, Information Technology, Nature Fresh Farms“Dell NativeEdge has enhanced our operational efficiencies and reduced costs, while supporting our continued growth and innovation in yield optimization and environmental monitoring.”

The Dell NativeEdge advancements will be available by January 2025.

HVAC Tech Innovations: Startups Bringing Smart Climate Control to the Mainstream

As the demand for energy-efficient, environmentally friendly HVAC systems grows, innovation has become a driving force within the industry. Startups are leading the charge by developing technologies that integrate smart climate control solutions with advanced tools like artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and automation. These innovations not only improve comfort but also significantly reduce energy consumption and operational costs, benefiting both consumers and the environment.

1. The Role of IoT in HVAC Innovations

The Internet of Things (IoT) has become a game-changer in the HVAC industry, enabling devices to communicate and work together seamlessly. According to one HVAC and AC service, HVAC systems that once operated as isolated units can now be integrated into smart home ecosystems, allowing homeowners to control their heating and cooling remotely. IoT allows HVAC systems to collect and analyze data in real-time, providing valuable insights into usage patterns and system performance.

Startups are leveraging IoT to create more connected and responsive systems. For example, smart sensors can detect fluctuations in temperature, humidity, and occupancy, adjusting HVAC settings automatically to ensure optimal comfort and energy efficiency. These systems not only enhance user convenience but also contribute to significant energy savings by reducing unnecessary heating and cooling.

2. AI and Machine Learning in HVAC Systems

Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning are taking HVAC technology to the next level by enabling systems to learn from user behavior and environmental factors. AI-powered HVAC systems can analyze past performance data and predict future needs, allowing for automatic adjustments that improve efficiency. For example, a smart HVAC system may lower energy consumption during peak times or adjust the temperature based on occupancy levels.

Several startups are utilizing AI to enhance HVAC efficiency. These companies develop algorithms that continuously analyze system data to predict potential issues before they become critical. For instance, predictive maintenance technologies can notify users when a component is likely to fail, preventing costly breakdowns. This proactive approach not only ensures continuous comfort but also reduces long-term repair costs and extends the life of HVAC equipment.

3. Energy Efficiency and Sustainable HVAC Solutions

Energy efficiency and sustainability are top priorities for today’s consumers, and HVAC startups are responding by developing eco-friendly solutions. From geothermal systems that harness the Earth’s natural heat to solar-powered HVAC systems that reduce reliance on traditional energy sources, startups are finding innovative ways to reduce the carbon footprint of heating and cooling systems.

Many HVAC startups focus on designing systems that meet or exceed energy efficiency standards, helping homeowners reduce both energy consumption and costs. In addition, innovations like heat recovery ventilation (HRV) systems capture and reuse waste heat, further improving efficiency. As governments and businesses seek solutions to mitigate climate change, these startups are at the forefront of creating sustainable HVAC systems that align with environmental goals.

4. The Impact of Smart Thermostats and Automation on Climate Control

Smart thermostats have evolved beyond basic temperature control, offering features that allow for fully automated climate management. Homeowners can now program their HVAC systems to adjust based on their daily routines, reducing energy use when no one is home. Startups are taking smart thermostats to the next level by developing models that integrate with other smart home devices, such as lighting and security systems, for a cohesive smart home experience.

Automation has become a key trend in smart climate control, enabling systems to adapt in real time to external conditions. For instance, a smart thermostat may adjust the HVAC system based on changes in outdoor weather conditions or energy prices, optimizing both comfort and cost savings. By automating HVAC systems, homeowners can reduce their environmental impact without sacrificing comfort.

5. Startups Driving the HVAC Innovation Wave

Many startups are making waves in the HVAC industry by introducing cutting-edge technologies that improve energy efficiency, reduce operational costs, and enhance user comfort. One example is a startup that has developed a fully automated HVAC system that uses AI and machine learning to adapt to user preferences and environmental conditions. The system continuously learns from data, ensuring optimal performance while minimizing energy use.

Other startups are focusing on creating modular HVAC systems that can be easily installed and upgraded, making them accessible to a broader range of consumers. These modular systems offer greater flexibility, allowing homeowners to customize their heating and cooling setup based on their specific needs. By offering scalable solutions, these startups are ensuring that smart climate control becomes more accessible to everyone, regardless of home size or budget.

6. Conclusion: The Future of HVAC Tech and the Role of Startups

The HVAC industry is experiencing a period of rapid transformation, driven largely by the innovations introduced by startups. By incorporating advanced technologies like IoT, AI, and automation, these companies are making HVAC systems smarter, more energy-efficient, and more sustainable. These advancements not only offer convenience and cost savings to consumers but also contribute to broader environmental goals by reducing energy consumption and carbon emissions.

As we look to the future, startups will continue to play a critical role in advancing HVAC technology. The demand for sustainable, efficient heating and cooling solutions is only expected to grow, and startups are well-positioned to meet this need with innovative products and services. From smart thermostats to AI-driven maintenance, the future of HVAC is bright, and these emerging companies are at the forefront of making smart climate control the new standard in homes and businesses across the globe.

Zoom launches newest AI innovations

Today Zoom announced new AI Companion capabilities to help improve connection, productivity, and collaboration across the platform. Along with additional enhancements across Zoom Team Chat, Zoom Whiteboard, and Zoom Meetings, Zoom AI Companion, the company’s generative AI assistant that is included at no additional cost,* can now help administrators track AI usage and adoption, and contact centres agents improve interactions with customers.

“AI Companion has generated over 5 million meeting summaries since we launched it in September 2023,” said Mahesh Ram, head of AI at Zoom. “We are focused on building AI capabilities that support collaboration, connection, and productivity, and empower users to do their best work. By continuing to launch new features for AI Companion, including an analytics dashboard and AI Companion for Zoom Contact Center, our aim is to help more people feel supported and enabled to build connections together.”

AI Companion analytics at admins’ fingertips

To help streamline the usage and adoption of AI Companion across an organisation, Zoom is introducing an analytics dashboard to help owners and admins gain a better understanding of how AI Companion is being used across their organisation and if more support is needed.

  • Analytics dashboard: Zoom admins can now access an AI Companion analytics dashboard in the Zoom admin portal that helps them to better understand usage and adoption of AI Companion within their organisation. This provides opportunities for admins to provide support and remind their users of the ways AI Companion can help streamline their workday.
Zoom AI innovations – techbuzzireland

Zoom Contact Center gets a boost from AI 

AI has become a critical ingredient for many successful contact centres. To help businesses big and small get the most out of Zoom, AI Companion is now more widely available across the platform, including with Zoom Contact Center.

  • Contact Center: AI Companion for Contact Center can now summarise customer chats and conversations to enable better agent understanding and smoother hand-offs, generate post-call tasks for follow-up, and support speech analytics and live sentiment.

Supercharging workplace communications with AI

Zoom is constantly innovating and bringing new capabilities to market in an effort to help users improve productivity and collaboration in the workplace. Stop toggling back and forth between apps, and let AI Companion help you spend less time on busy work with these new capabilities:

  • Team Chat: When using Team Chat, AI Companion will detect intent to schedule a meeting and will generate a pop-up that, when clicked, opens a calendar invite pre-filled with attendees, as well as date and time information for users, all based on the message’s content. All you have to do is click Send!
  • Whiteboard: Users now have the ability to create mind maps within Zoom Whiteboard using AI Companion to help visually organise thoughts that stem from a central idea based on user prompts.

AI makes Zoom Meetings more inclusive

Using the right pronouns is critical to engaging with teammates equitably to help  them feel comfortable and so they can collaborate with others.

  • Meetings: AI Companion will use attendees’ gender pronouns from their Zoom profile when generating Meeting Summaries to help meeting participants feel seen and acknowledged.

For more information on AI Companion, visit the Zoom website.

Enhancing Reality with AR Development: Innovations and Use Case

Augmented Reality (AR) is a technology that allows users to enjoy an interactive experience by overlaying digital elements in the real world. AR is more commonly associated with the gaming industry, but you can also find it in many other industries nowadays, such as retail, healthcare, and education. By blending the physical and digital worlds, AR draws more attention and provides more desirable results.

In this article, you can read more about how AR development has brought innovation to multiple sectors. 

Innovations in AR Development

For as long as AR has existed, it has been evolving. Through advancements such as real-time object recognition, tracking and localisation, and SLAM technology, AR has provided an increasingly enhanced experience for users, with refined stability and improved interaction.

In addition to the overlay, the hardware has also seen significant enhancements. Many companies have started to invest in the development of optimised AR equipment. Smart glasses and headsets have features that make the AR experience even more unique, such as cameras, a precision current sensor, audio capabilities, motion tracking abilities, and high-resolution displays. 

AR can integrate other relevant and emerging technologies, like Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning. These technologies have contributed to a quality increase of AR experiences by, for example, enabling accurate and seamless object recognition and tracking, understanding the context of the scene, and interpreting gestures and voice commands. 

Innovation becomes even clearer when looking at mobile apps. AR and the app development industry have gotten very close, which resulted in an interesting combination of mobile apps and AR features. Social media apps like Instagram and Snapchat are immediate examples of this relationship, as they are known to provide filters to add to photos. The retail industry also benefits from AR technology – for instance, IKEA’s app uses AR technology to allow users to try on furniture in their real-life environment.

Use Cases: AR in Different Sectors

AR in Retail and E-commerce

As mentioned previously, AR plays a relevant role in the retail and e-commerce transformation. As people increasingly turn to online shopping, the more necessary it is to find technologies that allow customers to benefit from the advantages of being in a physical store. AR has thus enabled virtual try-ons, which allow shoppers to virtually try on the products before purchasing, from makeup to furniture. 

AR in Education and Training

Thanks to Augmented Reality, education has become more interactive and enjoyable. AR technology can overlay digital elements such as 3D models and animations onto real-life objects, making the experience more interactive, immersive, and memorable, which helps keep students motivated. 

Besides providing a more entertaining learning experience, AR also helps learners acquire skills through simulations of the real world, in which the student can learn and practise in a controlled but realistic environment. This is especially helpful for skills related to aviation and healthcare, for example. 

AR in Healthcare

Augmented Reality can help medical staff perform tasks more safely. For instance, this technology can help surgeons during medical procedures by overlaying a 3D model of the patient’s anatomy onto their field of view, which helps guide them in the surgery, improving precision. Likewise, the same can be applied to students, who can practise performing medical procedures of different levels of difficulty in a realistic environment without the implications and risks of real-life training. 

AR in Manufacturing

AR can also transform the manufacturing industry and make the lives of assembly workers easier by overlaying visual instructions onto their environment, thus guiding them through the most complex assembly processes. Additionally, it can help them detect and reduce errors and display real-time metrics, which increases efficiency and productivity. 

Final Thoughts on the Expansive Realm of AR Development

The future of AR development holds promising advancements, as the realm of AR is constantly evolving. Technological progress makes AR more accessible, immersive, and integrated into our reality. And with the advent of emerging technologies that are bound to be part of our daily lives as well, such as 5G and Artificial Intelligence, Augmented Reality will only continue to grow and provide users with platforms that enhance their learning and skill development processes, their work duties, and their leisure moments.

Business Lighting Innovations and Trends: What You Need to Know to Stay Ahead

With technology advancing and consumer demands on the rise, good lighting has become more crucial than ever for businesses. Not only do you need to make sure that your space looks aesthetically pleasing; but you also must ensure that it’s functional and provides an optimum level of energy efficiency. 

This can be achieved by familiarizing yourself with the latest innovations in business lighting, as well as staying up-to-date on all the hottest trends in this field. Here we discuss how even small investments in modern lighting solutions can make a big difference when it comes to providing a better working environment while achieving significant cost savings over time!

Introduce the need for business

Lighting trends and innovations rarely stay the same. If businesses don’t keep up with the latest developments, they could waste money on outdated lighting solutions and miss out on taking advantage of emerging technologies. Staying informed about the ever-changing landscape of lighting options is critical for businesses to be successful. Having access to information about current trends and new advancements means companies can make informed decisions that best serve their organizational goals. Investing in new technology can improve a business’s energy efficiency, sustainability goals, bottom line, and more – so it’s important to stay in the know on what’s available.

Explore the benefits of LED lighting

LED lighting is rapidly becoming the preferred choice for businesses, offering many advantages over traditional lights. LED paint booth lighting is particularly advantageous when it comes to energy efficiency; they require significantly less wattage to produce the same amount of light as other lighting sources. This results in an intricate reduction in carbon emissions and huge savings on utility bills over time – a win-win situation! 

 

Additionally, LEDs produce improved lighting quality with little to no flicker, ensuring maximum visibility with eye protection. Perhaps most importantly, users benefit from a much longer lifespan than traditional bulbs or halogen lights, giving many years of use before replacement is required.

Review why motion sensors are becoming increasingly popular

Motion sensors have become increasingly sought-after for their ability to save time and money. These devices can help automatically power off lights, reduce heating and cooling bills, and even detect intrusions. Businesses and homeowners have been known to save hundreds of dollars each year thanks to the convenience and cost-effectiveness of motion sensor technology. Furthermore, with this technology becoming more accessible than ever, people are quickly realizing the countless advantages it can bring to their lives. With their never-ending applications, motion sensors are quickly becoming a go-to option for many businesses.

Highlight how smart bulbs work to improve efficiency

Smart bulbs, such as LED models, are designed to increase efficiency, reduce costs and provide greater control over lighting. These bulbs can connect to existing electronics like Google Home or Alexa devices for easy customization of brightness and color temperatures. For example, a user can adjust the hue to be warmer or cooler depending on their preference simply by using voice controls like “dim the lights” or “turn up the brightness”. Additionally, some bulbs feature sensors so they will automatically turn off when you leave a room. Using smart bulbs is an economical solution that produces impressive results.

Discuss how specialty lighting can be used to create unique atmospheres

Specialty lighting can drastically change the atmosphere of any room, without breaking the bank. Upgrade mundane lighting fixtures with whatever your imagination desires—a dazzling chandelier, eye-catching rope lighting, or vibrant neon signs—to create something truly unique. For an extra dose of style, try combining different types of lights like, pairing statement pendants with subtle strip lights or switching out recessed bulbs for a track light system. Not only will you make a statement, but the entire process won’t cost an arm and a leg!

Wrap up with tips on finding a reliable supplier

To find a reliable supplier of lighting to invest in for your business, it pays to do some research. Read customer reviews and check out the levels of customer service they offer. It’s important to look for quality products along with warranties, training, and knowledge about energy-efficient options. Moreover, inquire about discounts as well as an assessment of your current lighting setup – proper calculations and data can help you determine exactly what your needs are when it comes to business lighting. Taking all these factors into account will ensure that you make the best decision when choosing a supplier for your business lighting investments.

Your business lighting needs to be up-to-date in order to benefit from the many energy and cost savings that modern technologies offer. Taking advantage of new innovations in lighting technology can have a huge positive impact on your business now and in the long term!