SmartBrief has opened entries for the 2026 Innovation Awards in AI, which recognize AI solutions that impact business operations. The awards focus on recognizing organizations that harness AI to tackle complex challenges, improve decision-making and create efficiencies across diverse industries. Enter now.

Microsoft just announced a Windows and Surface event scheduled for Oct. 7 in San Francisco that will focus on how local AI is shaping the future of the PC. Besides Microsoft providing updates on Surface devices and insights into AI integration across Microsoft's hardware ecosystem, Nvidia's RTX Spark superchip will take center stage. The RTX Spark powers both the Surface Laptop Ultra and the Surface RTX Spark Dev Box, promising advanced local AI performance.

A report from Percona reveals that 97% of database administrators in the US are using outdated database management systems, primarily due to the complexity and cost of upgrades. Percona CEO Peter Farkas notes that unsupported software is more vulnerable to breaches, and advises companies to focus on flexibility and control in their database management strategies.

The AIDE Initiative's first major study on AI in emergency management finds that although there are 1,179 AI products from 717 tech companies, use is limited by issues such as cost, data readiness and internet connectivity. The study notes that 78% of AI tools require a constant internet connection, although disasters often disrupt connectivity, and only 10% of AI systems can function offline.

The Information Technology Department in the Town of Clayton, Ohio, plays a vital role in supporting employees across all departments by managing computers, software, servers, and systems. Beyond technical troubleshooting, the IT team collaborates with staff to understand their needs, facilitates problem-solving, and ensures the seamless integration of technology and information, which enables the town to serve its community more effectively.

Organizations are increasing investments in AI for cybersecurity, driven by the technology's shift from experimentation to production, and fears of falling behind. A survey by IANS and Artico shows 69% of chief information security officers prioritize AI in their budgets, despite uncertainty about the return on investment. "Attackers are already using AI to write sharper phishing emails, mutate malware and hunt for flaws in code faster than any team of humans can match," says David Lindner, CISO at Contrast Security. "Wait for the business case to firm up and you're really just telling your board you plan to lose slower."

Ai is shifting the focus from long-term tenure to adaptability and transferable skills, says Tyler Gordon, co-CEO of BaseCamp Franchising. Gordon says AI can amplify human productivity, especially in roles requiring interpersonal skills, making brick-and-mortar businesses and franchises more resilient to technological disruption. "Stability is no longer a destination you arrive at," Gordon says. "It is something you earn continuously by adapting."

A Deloitte report reveals that 63% of UK workers use generative artificial intelligence at work, with 31% doing so without employer knowledge and 17% paying for at least one tool themselves, spending nearly £1 billion collectively. Most use AI for everyday tasks, but Deloitte notes a lack of training and guidance. The National Cyber Security Centre warns that unapproved AI can expose companies to data breaches and regulatory noncompliance.

Stronger collaboration between information technology (IT) and operational technology (OT) teams has never been more important. Join CompTIA Chief Technology Evangelist Dr. James Stanger and other industry experts on Sept. 29 for a deep dive into the cultural, managerial and technical disconnects that often hinder effective cybersecurity and incident response. The webinar will explore practical strategies for aligning IT and OT priorities and strengthening security across increasingly connected environments. Register for “Investigating the IT/OT disconnect: A deep dive” here.