Technology News Update

Tech news update for the first week of September
Google Meet Introduces AI-Powered Note-Taking Feature: ‘Take Notes For Me’

Google has unveiled a groundbreaking new feature for its popular video conferencing platform, Google
Meet. The AI-powered tool, aptly named ‘Take Notes For Me’, is designed to automatically generate
summaries of key points discussed during video calls, enhancing productivity and ensuring that no
crucial information is missed.

The ‘Take Notes For Me’ feature leverages advanced artificial intelligence to transcribe and highlight
essential moments from meetings. This innovation aims to help users stay focused on the conversation
without the distraction of manual note-taking. At the end of each meeting, the AI compiles a concise
summary, which is then shared with the meeting owner for distribution.

This feature is part of Google’s broader initiative to integrate AI into its Workspace suite, enhancing user
experience and efficiency. Available to Workspace customers with specific add-ons, ‘Take Notes For
Me’ joins other AI-driven functionalities like automatic caption translation and noise cancellation.

Google’s new tool is expected to be a game-changer for professionals who rely on virtual meetings,
providing a seamless way to capture and review important discussions. The rollout of this feature began
in late August and is gradually becoming available to eligible users.

 

Google Pay Unveils New Features at Global Fintech Fest 2024

At the Global Fintech Fest (GFF) 2024, Google Pay announced a series of innovative features set to roll
out later this year, aimed at simplifying transactions and enhancing user experience.
Among the key features introduced are:
1. UPI Circle: This feature allows users to delegate digital payments to trusted individuals without
needing to link their bank accounts. It is particularly beneficial for those who rely on cash or
have limited access to banking services.
2. UPI Vouchers (eRupi): This direct benefit transfer feature enables users to generate prepaid
vouchers linked to mobile numbers for digital payments, even without a linked bank account.
3. ClickPay QR Scan: Simplifying bill payments, this feature allows users to pay bills by scanning a
QR code within the app.
4. Prepaid Utility Payments: Users can now make recurring payments for prepaid utilities directly
through the app.
5. Tap & Pay with RuPay Cards: This feature enables RuPay cardholders to make payments using
NFC-enabled smartphones.
6. Enhanced Security Measures: Google Pay is also introducing advanced security features,
including biometric authentication and real-time fraud detection, to ensure user transactions
are safe and secure.
7. Personalized Insights: Users will receive personalized spending insights and budgeting tools to
help manage their finances more effectively.

These enhancements reflect Google Pay’s commitment to making digital transactions more accessible
and convenient for its users. The new features are expected to be available to users later this year,
further solidifying Google Pay’s position as a leader in the fintech space.
Google Pay’s continuous innovation in the digital payment landscape demonstrates its dedication to
addressing user needs and staying ahead of market trends. Introducing these features is
anticipated to significantly enhance the user experience, making everyday transactions smoother and
more efficient.

 

APtech Nigeria Awards ₦64 Million in Scholarships at 16th Career Quest

In a significant boost to educational opportunities, students of APtech Computer Education in Nigeria
have been awarded ₦64 million in scholarships at the 16th edition of APtech Career Quest. This event,
held in association with Middlesex University, London, underscores APtech’s commitment to fostering
academic excellence and providing students with global opportunities.

The scholarships, which cover 50% of the tuition fees, will enable students to pursue Advanced Diploma
Software Engineering (ADSE) and APtech Certified Network Specialist (ACNS) courses at Middlesex
University, London. Additionally, a ₦12 million scholarship was awarded to a student enrolled in a two-
year APtech Advanced Diploma course, bringing the total scholarship disbursement to ₦76 million.

The event, held at the Muson Centre in Lagos, was graced by Seetam Thakuri, Assistant Vice-President of
International Business at APtech Learning India. Thakuri highlighted the platform’s role in offering IT
students the chance to enhance their skills and knowledge at Middlesex University’s campuses in
London or Dubai.

APtech’s collaboration with Middlesex University provides students with a unique opportunity to
transfer credits and gain international exposure, particularly in cutting-edge fields such as Artificial
Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), and Virtual Reality (VR). This initiative is part of APtech’s
mission to equip students with the skills needed to excel in the global tech industry.

UK’s First AI-Driven Classroom Without Teachers Set to Launch in London
In a pioneering move, David Game College in London is set to launch the UK’s first AI-driven classroom
without human teachers. Starting this month, the private school will offer GCSE students a unique
learning experience through its new ‘teacherless’ course, utilizing advanced artificial intelligence
platforms and virtual reality headsets.

The innovative program, known as the Sabrewing program, replaces traditional teaching methods
with AI-powered adaptive learning. This approach allows each student to receive a personalized
education tailored to their strengths and weaknesses. The AI continuously evaluates and
adjusts the learning material, ensuring that students progress at their own pace.

To support this new learning model, the college has employed a team of ‘learning coaches’ who will be
present in the classroom to monitor behavior and provide assistance with subjects that AI currently
struggles with, such as art and sex education. The program aims to combine the precision and accuracy
of AI with the necessary human touch to create a balanced educational environment.

John Dalton, the school’s co-principal, expressed confidence in the potential of AI to revolutionize
education. ‘There are many excellent teachers out there, but we’re all fallible, ‘Dalton said. ‘AI can
provide a level of precision and continuous evaluation that is difficult to achieve with human teachers. It
can pinpoint exactly why a child is not learning and adjust the approach accordingly.

While the new AI classroom has sparked excitement, it has also raised concerns about the potential for a
dehumanized learning environment. Critics argue that the absence of human interaction could lead to a
lack of emotional connection and a diminished overall educational experience.

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