Tech hubs

SAN FRANCISCO — These days, you can find virtual assistants like Amazon’s Alexa or Google’s Assistant in all sorts of things, from smart speakers and smartphones to washing machines and bathroom mirrors. The challenge isn’t finding these digitized helpers, it is finding people who use them to do much more than they could with the old clock/radio in the bedroom. A management consulting firm recently looked at heavy users of virtual assistants, defined as people who use one more than three times a day. The firm, called Activate, found that the majority of these users turned to virtual assistants to play music, get the weather, set a timer or ask questions. Activate also found that the majority of Alexa users had never used more than the basic apps that come with the device, although Amazon said its data suggested that four out of five registered Alexa customers have used at least one of the more than 30,000 “skills” — third-party apps that tap into Alexa’s voice controls to … [Read more...] about Alexa, We’re Still Trying to Figure Out What to Do With You

close Video US needs to 'reindustrialize' to compete with China: Dr. Jonathan Ward Atlas Organization Founder Dr. Jonathan Ward weighs in on China's recent aggressive tone towards the U.S. as it competes to become 'dominant superpower.' A recent report from Microsoft and the National Security Agency reveals a targeted cyberattack by a Chinese hacking group on critical infrastructure organizations in the United States. The attack was carried out by a state-sponsored group known for espionage and information gathering. Who is this hacker group targeting? The hacker group, known as Volt Typhoon, is believed to be behind a mysterious computer code that was discovered in telecommunications systems across the United States, including Guam. The presence of this code is concerning due to Guam's strategic importance in potential military responses to a Taiwan invasion or blockade, given its Pacific ports and significant American air base. The … [Read more...] about China hacking group caught spying on US organizations

In the last few years, managers at Nvidia, the global computer graphics company, began hearing a new kind of complaint: Some of their female employees were struggling with hot flashes, fatigue and brain fog — common symptoms of the menopause transition — and their regular doctors weren’t offering guidance or relief . “They came to us and said, ‘Who do I go to?’” Denise Rosa, the company’s head of U.S. medical programs, said. “They were like, ‘We have fertility support, we have egg freezing, we have surrogacy and adoption. What about me?’” Some women’s health concerns, like fertility struggles and postpartum depression, have already been acknowledged as issues that employers can address. But until recently, discussing the symptoms of menopause and perimenopause, the yearslong stretch that precedes the end of a woman’s reproductive years, was largely taboo. That is beginning to change. A new movement to create “menopause-friendly workplaces” is catching on, beginning … [Read more...] about A Movement to Make Workplaces ‘Menopause Friendly’

Imagine a Renters’ Utopia. It Might Look Like Vienna. Soaring real estate markets have created a worldwide housing crisis. What can we learn from a city that has largely avoided it? Supported by Continue reading the main story Send any friend a story As a subscriber, you have 10 gift articles to give each month. Anyone can read what you share. Give this article + By Francesca Mari Photographs by Luca Locatelli May 23, 2023, 4:20 a.m. ET When Eva Schachinger married at 22, she applied for public housing. Luckily, she lived in Vienna, which has some of the best public housing in the world. It was 1968. Eva was a teacher, and her husband, Klaus-Peter, was an accountant for the city’s public-transportation system. She grew up in a public-housing complex in the center of the city, where her grandmother, who cared for her from 6 in the morning … [Read more...] about Lessons From a Renters’ Utopia

In partnership with 0 Community Corner Every town has its traditions. Check out these fun facts about what makes Champaign so special. Patch Town Traditions , Patch Staff Posted | Updated Reply Champaign is a place like no other. And whether you grew up here, recently moved to the area or you’re just an occasional visitor, you know that Champaign has its own special traditions and history that make it so unique. A few things to know: Champaign and the surrounding area is a hub for the arts and is filled with impressive public art displays. Take a stroll down Neil Street and you'll be able to spot murals, sculptures and other creative pieces that add to the city's vibrant culture. The Virginia Theatre , a historic movie palace, was built in 1921 and has since been restored to its former glory. It now hosts concerts, movies and events year-round, and is a must-visit spot for anyone … [Read more...] about Champaign Delivers Arts, Technology And Innovation

Amazon.com has tapped the city of Aurora and the Majestic Commercenter to park its first Colorado facility. “We are hiring for hundreds of associates for our new package sortation center in Aurora,” Amazon spokeswoman Ashley S. Robinson confirmed in an e-mail on Monday. She said the new facility is at 19799 E. 36th Drive in Aurora, also known as Building 29 in Majestic Commercenter. The move comes two months after the Seattle-based online retailer began charging Colorado residents sales tax on their purchases. It fueled speculation that the company had established a business presence in the state. online Denver job portal , which said future employees would ” sort, pack and ship customer orders.” The positions start at $13 per hour. “Aurora’s location, workforce and business-friendly environment were key ingredients in attracting in the world’s largest e-commerce retailer to our city,” Aurora Economic Development Council president and CEO Wendy Mitchell said. The Majestic … [Read more...] about Aurora warehouse may be on tap for Amazon