Tech

Zoom launches massive investment fund for users

Published

4 years ago

April 20, 2021

Zoom creates $100 million fund to invest in startup software companies.

Zoom Video Communications has created a $100 million fund to invest in startup software companies that build apps using its technology.

The video conferencing company has become a household name during the pandemic as businesses and schools shifted to its platform, along with rival platforms such as Microsoft Corp’s (MSFT.O) Teams and Cisco Systems Inc’s (CSCO.O) Webex.

Zoom Chief Financial Officer Kelly Steckelberg told Reuters that the fund will make investments of between $250,000 and $2.5 million into companies building “Zoom Apps” that plug into the company’s video conferencing software to add new features to it.

While established firms such as Salesforce.com Inc (CRM.N) have Zoom apps that can, for example, display information from corporate systems for discussions during sales meetings, Steckelberg said Zoom wants to encourage developers to create new functions like digital white boards for sketching ideas.

The fund will also be open to companies such as telemedicine app providers or conference room hardware makers that want to tap Zoom’s cloud-based video systems.

Tech

Smart glasses could replace smartphones by 2035

“Experts predict smart glasses powered by AI will replace smartphones by 2035, transforming our tech interactions.”

Published

12 hours ago

June 18, 2025

Ahron Young

“Experts predict smart glasses powered by AI will replace smartphones by 2035, transforming our tech interactions.”

Smart Glasses Could Replace Smartphones by 2035 — Experts say wearable tech powered by AI is on track to replace smartphones within a decade. T

These sleek, voice-first devices are poised to transform how we interact with technology, with tech giants investing heavily in the space. Will your next phone fit on your face?

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#SmartGlasses #TechRevolution #AI #Wearables #FutureTech #BigTech #VoiceFirst #NextGenDevices

Tech

AI will reduce Amazon workforce, CEO Andy Jassy predicts

Amazon CEO predicts AI will shrink workforce, altering job types, but won’t lead to immediate mass layoffs.

Published

15 hours ago

June 18, 2025

Ahron Young

Amazon CEO predicts AI will shrink workforce, altering job types, but won’t lead to immediate mass layoffs.

In Short:
Amazon CEO Andy Jassy warns that advancements in artificial intelligence may reduce the workforce over time, primarily through attrition rather than mass layoffs. Many industries, including retail, are adopting AI, which could lead to job cuts while creating new specialised roles.

Amazon CEO Andy Jassy has indicated that advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) will likely lead to a decrease in the workforce within the company in the coming years.

In a recent communication to employees, Jassy described generative AI as a transformative technology that is already changing Amazon’s operations and customer interactions.

While he did not specify the exact extent of job reductions, he acknowledged that improvements in efficiency through AI would result in fewer roles.

Upcoming changes will primarily occur through attrition rather than mass layoffs, as seen in previous years. Certain teams may face layoffs, particularly those related to products like Alexa.

Impacts of AI

Jassy’s remarks are among the strongest from a large corporation regarding the potential impacts of AI on employment.

Various industries, including retail and pharmaceuticals, are adopting AI for multiple functions, which necessitates new job roles but also implies potential job cuts.

Surveys show a significant percentage of employers anticipate downsizing their workforce as a result of AI.

In the tech sector, many companies are prioritising the hiring of individuals with AI skills, as AI tools become integral to business efficiency.

Amazon plans to heavily invest in AI infrastructure. Jassy noted that the company is developing over 1,000 AI agents to enhance its productivity.

Tech

Starbucks joins AI revolution but will robot baristas take over?

Starbucks joins the AI wave, testing OpenAI tech to enhance service and cut costs; experts discuss its potential impact on customer service.

Published

1 week ago

June 11, 2025

Ahron Young

Starbucks joins the AI wave, testing OpenAI tech to enhance service and cut costs; experts discuss its potential impact on customer service.

Starbucks is the latest global brand to test AI assistants behind the counter, joining a wave of companies using OpenAI tech to boost service and cut costs. But will it work?

Experts weigh in on whether AI can truly revolutionise customer service.

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#AI #StarbucksAI #ArtificialIntelligence #OpenAI #TechNews #RetailTech #Innovation #TickerNews