(This column originally appeared in Forbes)
This Week in Business Tech News
Business Tech News #1 — Bill Gates: Within 10 years, AI will replace many doctors and teachers — humans won’t be needed ‘for most things’.
Bill Gates recently shared his thoughts on the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI). He predicted that within the next decade, AI will significantly reduce the need for human involvement in many areas, such as healthcare, education, and agriculture. Gates highlighted that AI could make high-quality medical advice and tutoring widely accessible, addressing shortages of professionals in these fields. However, he acknowledged that some roles — like playing sports — would remain uniquely human. “It’s very profound and even a little bit scary,” Gates said. While he’s optimistic about AI’s benefits, he also emphasized the importance of addressing its risks, including ethical concerns and potential job displacement. (Source: CNBC)
Why this is important for your business:
I’ve been warning about AI — even now — being used to replace humans and this trend will significantly increase over the next year as agents become smart (and reliable) enough to perform much of the daily tasks in our business that administrative, financial, marketing and other people are doing. To stay competitive, business owners need to lean into this technology. It’s time to start learning it now.
Business Tech News #2 — Does a VPN really provide 100% privacy? Here’s what you need to know.
Sam Singleton of PCWorld evaluated VPNs (Virtual Private Networks) and if they have the ability to provide absolute privacy. “I’ll make this really simple: No,” Singleton wrote. VPNs are effective in hiding internet activity from ISPs (Internet Service Providers) and protecting data through encryption on public Wi-Fi networks — however — they cannot eliminate all traces of online presence due to pervasive trackers and metadata collection. With that in mind, Singleton emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between privacy and anonymity. (Source: PC World; ZDNet)
Why this is important for your business:
Nothing is every 100% guaranteed. But if you’re travelling or using a public WiFi connection anywhere it’s important to use a VPN. If you’re a Google Chrome user, here are some of the best VPNs according to ZDNet: ExpressVPN for its speed and stability, NordVPN for its extensive server network, Surfshark for affordability, and Proton VPN for a free option. Each offers unique features tailored to different user needs, such as geo-blocking, encryption, and user-friendly interfaces. With all due respect to ZDNet, however, I have had poor experiences installing, connecting and performance with ExpressVPN, TunnelBear and PureVPN. I’m currently using the VPN provided by my security software MalwareBytes and it’s been excellent.
Business Tech News #3 — ChatGPT can now edit photos better and create charts for work.
OpenAI has integrated advanced tools into ChatGPT, allowing users to edit images by selecting specific areas and describing desired changes. The smallest details can be refined according to the creator’s conversation with the chatbot. This feature is accessible through both desktop and mobile platforms, making it versatile for various users. Additionally, it now can produce advanced diagrams and infographics prompted by “complicated instructions” from the user. These updates aim to improve precision and usability, enabling tasks like adding, removing, or modifying elements in images with ease. (Source: Yahoo Finance)
Why this is important for your business:
OpenAI’s image creation upgrades are amazing. If you want to see some great examples, just search on X for posts about it. These tools are becoming essential for your marketing team to create stunning visuals for your website and other promotional materials. They’re also spawning a new generation of entrepreneurs leveraging them to build videos and other creative works.
Business Tech News #4 — Zelle shuts down its digital payment app.
Zelle has officially shut down its standalone mobile app as of April 1, 2025. This decision was made because only about 2 percent of transactions occurred through the app, according to Zelle. Most users access Zelle via their bank or credit union’s platform. The move allows Zelle to focus on improving fraud detection and safeguarding within its network. While the app is no longer available for payments, it will now serve as a hub for financial education — offering resources on scams and fraud prevention, as well as listing participating financial institutions. Users are encouraged to continue using Zelle through their bank or credit union. (Source: Tech.co)
Why this is important for your business:
While only 2 percent of the transactions, many small businesses may be impacted by this decision. By the time you’re reading this you already know about the shutdown. If not, and you’re expecting payment, then you need to make other arrangements. There are lots of mobile payment options available for small businesses, so if this affects you it’s important find an alternative now.
Business Tech News #5 — Subaru dealer uses AI chat to triple lead engagement.
A Subaru dealership in Texas has successfully used a new AI-powered chatbot called “Chat Concierge” to improve customer engagement. Unlike traditional chat systems, this chatbot uses advanced AI to handle complex customer inquiries, such as pricing, inventory, and trade-ins, making interactions more personalized and effective. “The results have been remarkable. We have seen a 55% customer-engagement rate, which far exceeds the performance of our previous chat provider,” the manager of the dealership reported. This innovative approach is part of a broader effort by Capital One to enhance its Auto Navigator platform for participating dealerships. (Source: Wards Auto)
Why this is important for your business:
An auto dealership using AI for customer service? Don’t be so surprised. Over the next few years we’ll be seeing plenty of small and mid-sized businesses moving to AI solutions as they become cheaper and the tools become more available. Some will choose to build these applications on their own. Others will take advantage of new tools offered by their vendors. Regardless it’s a move that will be important because customers will soon be expecting this kind of experience.
Every week I round up five business tech news stories that I think have an impact on your small business and mine and then I discuss why they’re impactful.
