Colleges Using AI and Microsoft’s Free AI Skills Training

Apr 6

Emerging Tech Roundup — April 5, 2025

The Quantious team’s top picks for timely trending news in the tech world.

This week in tech: Introducing Amazon Nova Act, Microsoft's free AI skills training 'Fest' starts next week, Apple's Find My has finally launched in South Korea, TikTok's ban deadline is coming (again), Anthropic launches an AI chatbot plan for colleges and universities, Google’s NotebookLM leader is taking over as head of the Gemini app, and Spotify debuts Gen AI ads.

Introducing Amazon Nova Act

(Amazon AGI Labs, March 31)

Amazon has unveiled Nova Act, a new AI model designed to take actions directly within a web browser, with a developer-focused research preview now available via the Nova Act SDK. Unlike traditional LLM-based agents that focus on natural language responses or API calls, Nova Act enables the creation of agents that can complete complex, multi-step tasks (like submitting time-off requests or managing calendars) by manipulating browser interfaces directly. The SDK allows developers to break workflows into reliable atomic commands, include fine-grained instructions, call APIs, and use tools like Playwright and Python to enhance task accuracy and parallelize actions.

Microsoft's Free AI Skills Training 'Fest' Starts Next Week - Anyone Can Sign Up

(ZD Net, March 31)

Microsoft is launching the AI Skills Fest this April and May, aiming to set a Guinness World Record for "the most users to complete an online multi-level artificial intelligence lesson in 24 hours." The event offers free AI training for everyone, covering core concepts like machine learning, NLP, computer vision, and practical tools like Azure and Copilot. While it’s part marketing stunt, it also delivers real value to participants—and follows a trend of companies setting quirky online learning records.

Apple's Find My Has Finally Launched in South Korea

(Engadget, April 1)

Apple has officially enabled its Find My feature in South Korea after years of public demand, finally allowing AirTags and similar devices to function properly in the country. The delay was likely due to local laws concerning access to location data, though Apple never confirmed this. With the feature now available via the latest iOS 18.4 update, users across South Korea can track personal items, friends, and family—bringing the service in line with global availability.

TikTok's Ban Deadline is Coming. What Happens Next?

(Engadget, April 1)

With TikTok’s U.S. divestment deadline looming on April 5, several potential buyers—MrBeast, Alexis Ohanian, Perplexity AI, and Oracle—are in the mix, but ByteDance refuses to sell TikTok’s key recommendation algorithm. This means any new owner may have to rebuild the “For You” feed, with proposals ranging from open-source algorithms to blockchain integration. An alternative deal could let U.S. investors form a new global TikTok entity while ByteDance retains control of the algorithm, though this approach may conflict with existing law and hinges on Chinese government approval.

Anthropic Launches an AI Chatbot Plan for Colleges and Universities

(Tech Crunch, April 2)

Anthropic has launched Claude for Education—a new AI tier aimed at higher education—featuring tools like Learning Mode that promote critical thinking by encouraging student engagement rather than just providing answers. The plan includes enterprise-grade security, integrations with platforms like Canvas through a partnership with Instructure, and support from Internet2 to help colleges adopt the technology. With full campus agreements already in place at institutions like Northeastern University, the move positions Anthropic to compete directly with OpenAI’s educational offerings while aiming to double its $115 million monthly revenue in 2025.

Google’s NotebookLM Leader is Taking Over as Head of the Gemini App

(The Verge, April 2)

Sissie Hsaio, who led the launch of Google’s Gemini AI chatbot, is stepping down and will be replaced by Josh Woodward, VP of Google Labs, according to Semafor. Hsaio, a nearly 20-year Google veteran, played a key role in launching Bard (now Gemini) and will take a short break before returning in a new role. Woodward, known for developing NotebookLM and its AI podcast tools, will now lead Gemini's next phase while continuing to head Google Labs.

Spotify Debuts Gen AI Ads, Programmatic Ad Buying

(Tech Crunch, April 3)

Spotify has unveiled Gen AI ads and launched the Spotify Ad Exchange (SAX), a new programmatic platform enabling real-time ad auctions targeting its logged-in users. SAX will support audio, video, and display ads—initially across music, with podcasts coming soon—and is rolling out in major global markets, including the U.S., Canada, Europe, and more. Additionally, Spotify now lets advertisers use generative AI to create ad scripts and voiceovers for free via Spotify Ads Manager in the U.S. and Canada.