Webtagr - Technology News Summarizer

Microsoft Extends Windows 10 Security Updates: Free and Paid Options Available

2025-09-25

Facing criticism and user concerns, Microsoft announced new options for US and European users to extend Windows 10 security updates for free, just days before ending support on October 14th. US users can choose a free option involving profile backup for a year of updates, or pay $30 or redeem 1000 Microsoft Rewards points. European users can get a free year of updates by logging in with a Microsoft account. This follows pressure from European advocacy groups and widespread worries about upgrading to Windows 11.

(www.straitstimes.com)

Tech

Albania's AI Minister: Sun-Powered Anti-Corruption?

2025-09-12

Albania's new government is employing an AI-powered virtual minister named Diella (“sun” in Albanian) to oversee public procurement, aiming to combat widespread corruption. Previously a virtual assistant on the e-Albania platform, Diella will now manage government contracts with private companies. While intended to increase transparency and reduce graft, skepticism remains, with some fearing manipulation. Albania's EU accession bid is hampered by corruption, making the success of this AI initiative uncertain.

(www.straitstimes.com)

Tech anti-corruption public procurement

Generative AI Boosts Productivity: Workers Saving Hours Weekly

2025-02-28

Research from the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis, Vanderbilt University, and Harvard University reveals that generative AI is significantly boosting worker productivity. The study, based on a nationally representative survey, found that users are 33% more productive per hour when using generative AI. More frequent users reported even greater time savings, suggesting a learning curve. Information service workers saw the highest time savings, while leisure and hospitality saw the least. While the widespread adoption of AI is recent, its long-term impact on overall productivity remains uncertain; some workers may use the saved time for leisure rather than increased output.

(www.straitstimes.com)

AI Work Efficiency

Excel World Championship: The Super Bowl for Nerds

2025-01-27

The first-ever Microsoft Excel World Championship took place in Las Vegas, attracting spreadsheet masters from around the globe. The competition, formatted like an e-sport, saw contestants battling it out on stage with complex Excel formula challenges for a cash prize and a championship belt. The event's popularity surprised many, with a packed audience and ESPN3 livestream, showcasing the unexpected appeal and competitive spirit surrounding spreadsheet skills in the modern world.

(www.straitstimes.com)

Game e-sports