Here are five things in tech that happened this week and how they affect your business. Did you miss them?
(This column originally appeared in Forbes)
1 — QuickBooks just got an AI makeover — here’s how Intuit says it’ll save you time.
Sam Becker of Fast Company reports that Intuit has introduced a new AI assistant called Intuit Assist to enhance its QuickBooks software. This AI-powered tool aims to speed up workflows and save users time with features like: Invoice generation; personalized briefings for business owners; and automated tasks like flagging unusual financial data and drafting emails. Senior Vice President of QuickBooks Platform, Dave Talach, said, “We’ve been thoughtful about approaching AI not just for the sake of AI, but we want it to show up in a cohesive way in the product that is coherent to the customer.” (Source: Fast Company)
Why this is important for your business:
If you’re running a small business there’s a pretty good chance you’re using QuickBooks. Intuit is just getting started with its AI enhancements to its flagship accounting product and it will be exciting to see what’s coming next. My strong suggestion is to either spend time directly with someone at Intuit or hire a competent QuickBooks advisor to walk you and your team through these new AI features. They will save time, increase productivity and make a difference to your profits.
2 — Amazon reportedly working on Echo Frames for delivery drivers.
According to a Reuters report, Amazon is developing smart glasses for its delivery drivers, based on its Echo Frames. Codenamed “Amelia,” these glasses aim to guide drivers to package delivery locations using augmented reality (AR) technology. The AR will offer turn-by-turn navigation, Alexa voice assistance, and a camera with an embedded display — allowing delivery drivers to carry more packages without having to be concerned with a smartphone. The project is still in development to achieve key functions like a full-shift battery life. Amazon hopes these glasses will improve delivery efficiency and reduce costs. (Source: The Verge)
Why this is important for your business:
Look for more augmented reality glasses to proliferate throughout the transportation, construction and manufacturing industries over the next few years. Big companies like Amazon have the resources to develop their own solutions. But eventually these products will filter their way down to smaller organizations.
3 — Chase expands its customer insights tool to nearly five million small businesses.
Chase has expanded its Customer Insights tool, now available to nearly five million small businesses with Chase checking accounts. This tool leverages anonymized data to offer insights on customer demographics, spending habits, and geographic preferences. (Source: Small Business Trends)
Why this is important for your business:
It’s good to see banks become more proactive with our data. Features include sales tracking, demographic analysis, and purchasing behavior patterns, allowing businesses to refine their marketing and operational strategies more effectively. It’s designed to help small businesses optimize customer engagement and make data-driven decisions at no extra cost.
4 — The best laptop you can buy in 2024.
Engadget’s guide to the best laptops of 2024 offers a range of options for different needs (11 laptops were tested). For most users, they recommend the MacBook Air M3, which balances performance and affordability with Apple’s M3 chip and a retina display. For professionals needing higher performance, the MacBook Pro models — especially with M3 Pro or M3 Max chips — stand out due to their advanced graphics, high dynamic range displays, and large memory capacity. For those who prefer Windows, the Dell XPS 15 and 17 offer strong alternatives with high-performance specs, suitable for tasks like video editing and gaming. To see the others that made the list, visit the link. (Source: Engadget)
Why this is important for your business:
I’m in the market right now and have always had good success with Dell’s XPS product line. I may be back again.
5 — Mastercard debuts platform to help small businesses consolidate digital tools.
Mastercard has launched a new platform called Biz360 to help small businesses consolidate their digital tools. The platform aims to simplify daily operations by providing a “one-stop shop” for managing various business tasks. (Source: PYMNTS)
Why this is important for your business:
Key features include consolidation of operational tools, subscriptions, and payment gateways into a single platform; increased efficiency with automated administrative tasks; and data-driven insights to guide business owners with important decision making. The Biz360 launch has been a collaborative effort between Mastercard, fintech platform Hello Alice and tech company vcita.com.
