Staying ahead in business often means embracing cutting-edge technologies. New tools can unlock new avenues for growth especially for small businesses. SMBs are often looking for affordable ways to gain a competitive advantage.

One such transformative force is Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI). This is a technology that goes beyond automation and the AI we used to know. It can create content, solutions, and possibilities before unimaginable. It’s so revolutionary that it’s hard to go online without seeing it everywhere.

Do you have a small business seeking to grow? Looking for innovative ways to navigate the competitive landscape? Generative AI can be a powerful ally. It can drive creativity, efficiency, and growth.

Let’s look at how small businesses are harnessing the potential of Generative AI. Using it to elevate their marketing strategies, streamline operations, and foster innovation.

The Rise of Generative AI in Small Business Marketing

The landscape of small business marketing is evolving rapidly. The integration of AI technologies is reshaping strategies for growth. Small businesses are turning to GenAI to enhance their marketing efforts. This is one example of how they are leveraging it to improve profitability.

60% of SMBs say attracting new customers is their biggest challenge. While 30% say it’s marketing to prospective clients. Not surprisingly, 74% expressed interest in using AI to help.

91% of surveyed SMBs say AI has made their business more successful.

This advanced form of AI enables businesses to generate things like:

• Images
• Ideas
• Customer solutions

Companies can do it at the push of a button. This reduces manual effort and unlocks new possibilities for creativity.

How Are Small Businesses Using GenAI?

1. Image & Content Creation and Personalization

Generative AI is revolutionizing image and content creation. It automates the generation of diverse and engaging visuals. Using text prompts, you can generate countless image styles. Plus, create photos and graphics that resonate with target audiences.

Small businesses can leverage GenAI to personalize marketing messages. This improves customer engagement and builds stronger connections.

2. Enhanced Customer Experience

Small businesses strive to differentiate themselves through exceptional customer experiences. Generative AI can play a pivotal role. AI-powered chatbots and virtual assistants provide instant responses. They offer a seamless and efficient communication channel.

This enhances customer satisfaction. It also frees up staff to focus on strategic aspects of relationship management.

3. Data Analysis and Decision-Making

Generative AI excels at analyzing vast datasets. As well as extracting insights and informing data-driven decision-making. Small businesses can harness the power of AI algorithms. It can help them understand market trends as well as customer behaviors and competitive landscapes.

This data-driven approach enables more informed marketing strategies. This helps business owners optimize resource allocation. As well as maximize the impact of marketing campaigns.

4. Innovative Product Development

The creative capabilities of GenAI extend to product development. Businesses can use AI to generate innovative ideas and concepts. This includes designing new products and refining existing ones.

AI-driven tools provide a unique perspective. One that can spark creativity as well as set small businesses on a path of continuous innovation.

5. Efficient Social Media Management

Social media has become a cornerstone of small business marketing. Generative AI is streamlining social media management. AI tools can analyze social media trends. They can also schedule posts for optimal engagement. And even generate relevant hashtags and captions. This automation allows small businesses to maintain a consistent social media presence.

Empowering Small Businesses for Future Growth

Generative AI stands at the forefront of technological innovation. It offers small businesses a gateway. One to enhance creativity, efficiency, and growth.

Those who harness the power of AI will gain a competitive edge. It can help smaller companies reach new heights of success. As well as do it affordably.

Small businesses that embrace GenAI can streamline their operations and marketing. They can also foster a culture of innovation that propels them into the future.

We’re now in a world where adaptability is key. GenAI provides small businesses with the tools to keep pace with industry changes. It also gives them the power to lead the way.

The growth potential unlocked by Generative AI extends beyond marketing. It permeates every aspect of business operations. This paves the way for a future where small businesses thrive. Well, the ones that capitalize on the innovation and strategic advantage.

Get Expert Guidance to Keep Your SMB Technologically Competitive

Things have always moved fast in the digital world. But GenAI seems to have accelerated that even more. Don’t let your small business get left behind. Our team of technology experts can help.

We’ll take a look at your current business needs. As well as how your technology is meeting them. Next, we’ll explore ways that newer solutions can cut costs and improve efficiency.

Contact us today to schedule a chat.

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This Article has been Republished with Permission from The Technology Press.

Every year, tech enthusiasts eagerly anticipate Europe’s most prominent technology trade show. It’s the Internationale Funkausstellung Berlin, or simply IFA.

This is a showcase of the latest and greatest innovations in consumer electronics. The show includes everything from cutting-edge smartphones to futuristic smart home gadgets. IFA never fails to impress.

Let’s take a closer look at some of the coolest smart gadgets unveiled at IFA. As well as explore how they are shaping the future of technology.

Samsung’s JetBot 90 AI+

One of the most eye-catching exhibits at IFA was Samsung’s JetBot 90 AI+. This intelligent robot vacuum cleaner takes smart cleaning to a whole new level.

It uses advanced AI and sensors to navigate your home efficiently. It avoids obstacles and adjusts its cleaning patterns based on the room’s layout. It has powerful cleaning capabilities and a large dustbin. It’s an impressive addition to the world of home automation.

Spatial Reality Display

Sony introduced its Spatial Reality Display, which is nothing short of mind-blowing. This 3D display creates realistic, high-resolution 3D objects. They seemingly float in the air.

It’s a game-changer for professionals in industries like design, architecture, and gaming. The technology has the potential to revolutionize how we interact with digital content.

Philips Hue Gradient Lightstrip

Philips expanded its Hue smart lighting range with the Gradient Lightstrip. This one is unlike traditional light strips. It features several colors that can synchronize with your TV screen. This creates an immersive ambient lighting experience. It can enhance your movie and gaming nights. It’s a fantastic example of how smart lighting can transform your living space.

Bose QuietComfort 45 Headphones

Bose introduced the QuietComfort 45 headphones at IFA. They deliver the signature noise-canceling technology that Bose is known for. These wireless headphones are comfortable for long listening sessions. They also offer exceptional sound quality and improved noise cancellation. They are a must-have for music lovers and frequent travelers.

LG’s Rollable OLED TV

LG unveiled its rollable OLED TV. It’s a marvel of engineering that can magically disappear when you don’t need it. With the press of a button, the TV screen rolls up and disappears into its base. It saves space and offers a sleek, minimalist look when not in use. This innovation heralds a new era of flexible displays. It also opens up exciting possibilities for interior design.

When you’re ready to watch, it unrolls to provide a stunning 4K OLED display. It’s a glimpse into the future of flexible display technology. As well as how it can revolutionize home entertainment.

Braun’s MultiQuick 9-Hand Blender with ActiveBlade Technology

Smart gadgets aren’t limited to entertainment and convenience. They extend to the kitchen as well. An example is Braun’s MultiQuick 9-Hand Blender with ActiveBlade Technology. It caught the attention of culinary enthusiasts. Its unique blade design ensures more effective blending and chopping. It can make meal preparation faster and easier.

Bosch’s Virtual Visor

Bosch showcased its Virtual Visor, a revolutionary upgrade to the traditional car visor. The visor uses AI and a transparent LCD panel. It blocks out the sun’s glare without obstructing your view. It selectively darkens only the sections of the visor where glare is present. This provides enhanced visibility and safety while driving. This innovation promises a more comfortable and safer driving experience for all.

TCL Wearable Display

TCL showcased a wearable display that offers a personal cinematic experience. These glasses provide an immersive viewing experience with a large virtual screen. On a long flight or want to enjoy a private movie night? These wearable displays are a game-changer.

Samsung’s SmartThings Hub

At IFA, Samsung showcased its SmartThings Hub. This is an intelligent central hub. It connects and controls all your smart devices seamlessly. It acts as the brain of your smart home. And allows you to manage lighting, security, climate, and more. Its integration capabilities make it a standout choice. It will be of interest to anyone looking to build a truly connected home.

Withings’ Sleep Tracking Mat

Withings introduced its Sleep Tracking Mat. It’s a smart device that slips under your mattress. It monitors your sleep patterns, heart rate, and snoring.

The gadget provides detailed insights into your sleep quality. It helps you understand your sleep habits better. As well as make adjustments for a more restful night. It’s a valuable tool for anyone looking to focus on their health and well-being.

Let Us Help You Gear Up for the Future

Smart gadgets are evolving. We’ve seen everything from intelligent home automation to innovative car accessories. These devices are shaping the future of how we live, work, and play.

Gear up for the future—because it’s arriving faster than we ever imagined.

Give us a call today to schedule a chat about leveraging smart tech at home or work.

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This Article has been Republished with Permission from The Technology Press.

Apple’s iOS updates have always been eagerly anticipated. iPhone and iPad users around the world get excited to see what their devices can do next. The newest major upcoming release will be for iOS 17. This fall, Apple is set to introduce a host of exciting new features and improvements.

iOS 17 promises to deliver an even more intuitive and seamless user experience. There will also be big changes for Messages and sharing across phones.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the key features you can expect. Get ready to explore the latest innovations that Apple has in store for its users.

Get an Instant Transcript of Voicemails

How do you know if that voicemail that came in while in a Zoom meeting is important? iOS 17 is going to make that much easier to determine. When you get a voicemail, you’ll see a transcript of the message on your screen. No more guesswork!

Personalized Contact Posters

Do you hate the picture that someone has saved of you in your contact? The one that comes up every time you call them? You’ll now have power over how you look when you call others.

Apple is introducing personalized Contact Posters. You can customize how you’ll look when calling people with whom you’ve shared your poster. You can appear as your photo, a Memoji, and more. You can also add text and colors.

Leave a Video or Audio FaceTime Message

You have better options when calling someone on FaceTime and they’re not there. Instead of just leaving a missed call. FaceTime will support audio and video messages. These are like enhanced voicemails.

Now, if you want to share an exciting visual in the moment, you can. Even if the person doesn’t pick up. You can leave it for them to watch later.

More FaceTime Enhancements – Reactions & Apple TV

Another cool enhancement coming to FaceTime are more expressive reactions. Some of the new ways to express yourself include:

• Hearts
• Balloons
• Fireworks
• Laser beams
• Rain
• and more

Also, a FaceTime call can now connect with AppleTV. See loved ones right from your large-screen television, as big as ever.

Stickers, Anyone?

If you’re a fan of stickers in messages, you’re going to love this next feature. Messages will be getting a big sticker enhancement in iOS 17. This includes new emoji stickers. You’ll also have the ability to create Live Stickers from subjects in photos.

You can also liven stickers up with effects. A sticker drawer is also going to be available to store them all neatly.

AirDrop & NameDrop for Easier Sharing

Sharing photos, videos, and files across devices will get better. In just seconds, you can use AirDrop to share files from one phone to another.
NameDrop gives you a quick way to share contact details. All you need to do is bring two iPhones together. It also works with an iPhone and Apple Watch. Oh, and music is included in the sharing fun!

NameDrop is also how you’ll share that cool Contact Poster you made.

Smarter Autocorrect & Dictation

Who hasn’t cursed an autocorrect choice that makes you look bad? Apple feels your pain and is introducing smarter autocorrection. This feature will get a machine learning language model upgrade. The update will help it predict text better to learn what you really meant to type.

Dictation is also getting an upgrade. It will use a new speech recognition model to improve its accuracy.

StandBy Glanceable Screen Mode

Apple wants your iPhone to be even more useful. Even when it’s charging across the room. So, iOS 17 introduces StandBy. This gives users a full-screen experience with information shown big on the screen.

You can personalize the display with a full range of helpful views:

• Clock styles
• Favorite photos
• Widgets (including Smart Stacks)
• Live Activities
• Siri
• Incoming Calls

New Mental Health Features in the Health App

Apple is introducing more mental health features. The health app will enable users to log daily moods and momentary emotions. The goal is to help people see what contributes to their state of mind. As well as easily access depression and anxiety assessments used in clinics.

Screen Distance in Screen Time will also assist with digital eyestrain. It will encourage a user to move their device farther away from their face. It will do this if users have held their phone closer than 12 inches over a certain period of time.

Get Help with Smartphone Tutoring, Security & More

iOS 17 is shaping up to be an exciting update for Apple users. It offers a range of new features and enhancements. Even more than we could fit into this article.

If you’re looking for help learning how to use your phone’s features or enhancing security, give us a call. We can improve your experience with one of the most important pieces of tech people use today. Their smartphone.

Give us a call, and let’s chat.

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This Article has been Republished with Permission from The Technology Press.

At the beginning of each year, a group of global innovators meets. They introduce and show off breakthrough technologies. It’s done at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES), which is typically held each January in the U.S.

This year, over 3,200 exhibitors from 173 countries showed off the future. Giving us a glimpse of what could show up in our homes offices, living rooms, or kitchens. The show includes both wacky and very sensible inventions. All designed to push the limits and expand how we use technology.

People love their gadgets, so it’s always exciting to see the new tech that CES showcases. It’s estimated that the global smart home household penetration was 14.2% in 2022. By 2027, it’s expected to more than double to 28.8%.

What new gadgets did innovators introduce at this year’s Consumer Electronics Show? Here’s a rundown of some standouts that you may want to check out.

Loona – Intelligent Petbot

Do you love the thought of having a pet, but not the mess? Can’t have one because of where you live? Loona might be your answer. The developer promotes this smart gadget as “the most intelligent petbot.” It’s currently gathering funding through a Kickstarter campaign.

The cute little motorized pseudo pet can welcome you. It can also follow you when you walk around, sneeze, scratch, and much more. Just like a dog or cat, Loona investigates suspicious objects. Unlike most pets can beatbox, pose for pictures, and dance.

Ring Car Cam

Another consumer IoT device displayed at CES is already for sale on Amazon. It’s the Ring Car Cam, which takes the popular doorbell cam concept on the road with you.

This small internet-connected video cam has dual-facing cameras. It can capture images in the car and on the road. It includes two-way talk to connect with loved ones at home. It also has motion detection and real-time motion alerts.

AtmosGear Electronic Skates

If you’re feeling brave, you can soon strap on a pair of electric inline roller skates. AtmosGear introduced the skates at CES. It expects to begin shipping them starting in May of 2023.

The skates can get up to speeds of 25 km/H (15.5 MPH) and can reach a full charge in about an hour. The “skate” is actually a motorized frame that you can attach to “all roller boots.”

Tilt Five Augmented Reality Glasses

If you’ve been waiting to use augmented reality (AR) outside a video game, your chance may be here. Tilt Five introduced an AR glasses system that connects to a computer device. It can be used on board games as well as video games.

Ready to bring some holographic life to your tabletop play? The system includes the glasses and a board game. The glasses look somewhat like heavy-duty safety glasses. Both interact to bring an AR element into the real world.

Jabra Enhance™ Plus

This earbud/hearing aid combo can be very helpful to those with hearing loss. Jabra Enhance Plus are earbuds that offer a 3-in-1 experience. You can use them for listening to music, phone calls, and for hearing enhancement.

The small design makes them discrete, and they are also designed to be easy to use. They include state-of-the-art technology to provide superior audio clarity.

Hasbro Selfie Series Figures

Have you secretly wished to have your own action figure…of you! Hasbro has you covered with its new Selfie Series. You can use your phone’s camera to upload a pic and choose from figures based on several franchises.

Make a figure of yourself from these universes:

• G.I. Joe
• Ghostbusters
• Power Rangers
• Marvel
• Star Wars

Use your smartphone and Habro’s app to customize your new digitized figure. Then all you have to do is buy it and wait for it to arrive.

Twinkly Squares

Twinkly Squares are like the Lite-Bright toy all grown up. The squares allow you to add panels of colored and automated lights to any wall. They’re great for a home office or to add a pop of color to any space.

Because these are IoT gadgets, you can also program and control them. Create digital artwork, have them sync with music, or use their voice feature.

Xebec Tri-Screen 2

Do you wish you had more screen space on your laptop? Don’t like the uneven feel of using a second monitor that is higher than your laptop screen? Then Xebec’s Tri-Screen 2 may be your answer.

This gadget enables you to expand your laptop screen on both sides. It sits behind the screen and expands the screen space both left and right.

Don’t Introduce Smart Tech Into Your Home without Security

New electronic gadgets and home tech can be great. They can also expose your network to security risks. Get help from a pro. Give us a call for a home security audit.

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Featured Image Credit

This Article has been Republished with Permission from The Technology Press.