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Amazon Prime Video’s disappearing act could point to a future without the service

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Something strange is going on with Amazon Prime Video. A report from news site Cord Busters originally claimed that the tech giant quietly pulled the plug on the service in the United Kingdom. If you head over to Amazon Prime’s UK page, you’ll notice that Prime Video isn’t among the list of plans near the bottom. All you see are Prime Monthly and Prime Annuals. The same thing is happening on the American website. Scroll down to the “Choose Your Plan” section and it’s not there.

As it turns out, Prime Video continues to exist although it’s being obscured. If you go down to the bottom of the UK website, you’ll find Prime Video listed among the other subscription plans with a direct link to sign up. This isn’t the case with the US page, however. There isn’t a clear indicator of Prime Video’s availability in the States; not a cornered-off section or even a small hint. Luckily, the subscription’s signup page is still live if you know where to look or if you have a link. The cost of the subscription hasn’t changed. It’s still $8.99/£5.99 a month.

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Nextcloud announces ‘AI as a service’ collaboration with major providers

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Nextcloud has announced a collaboration with a number of major European players in the cloud storage industry to leverage access to their upcoming on-premise ‘artificial intelligence (AI) as a service’ features, promising GDPR compliance in a cottage industry fraught with privacy concerns.

Claiming that demand for AI functionality is high amongst its customers, OVHCloud’s AI Product Marketing Manager Germain Masse revealed such integrations will be made available later in 2024.

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AI alone will not fix bad customer service

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With AI becoming more mainstream, we’re at the stage now where organizations are actively starting to experiment and identify ways it could help them to improve customer engagement.

Recent research carried out by Twilio has revealed that 79% of UK IT teams are actively implementing AI to varying degrees, or are in the advanced stages of planning for its adoption. But as with all new technology, it’s easy to get caught up in what everyone else is doing.

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Can’t decide which streaming service to cancel? This app makes subscription hopping between Netflix, Disney Plus and more easy

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In the increasingly competitive world of the best streaming services, the hard bit isn’t just deciding what to watch – it’s deciding which service to subscribe to in the first place. With prices going up and wages… not so much, more and more of us are starting to think much more critically about the services we subscribe to. 

There are even those that are cutting their TV streaming bills by 75% with subscription hopping. But wouldn’t it be great if there was an app that could help us decide which to keep and which to ditch by pointing out which streamers are best suited to what we want to see?

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Computers

A Roku Terms of Service Update Locks Up Your TV Until You Agree

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Roku customers are threatening to stop using, or to even dispose of, their low-priced TVs and streaming gadgets after the company appears to be locking devices for people who don’t conform to the recently updated terms of service.

This month, users on Roku’s support forums reported suddenly seeing a message when turning on their Roku TV or streaming device reading: “We’ve made an important update: We’ve updated our Dispute Resolution Terms. Select ‘Agree’ to agree to these updated Terms and to continue enjoying our products and services. Press * to view these updated Terms.” A large button reading “Agree” follows. The pop-up doesn’t offer a way to disagree, and users are unable to use their device unless they hit agree.

Customers have left pages of complaints on Roku’s forum. One user going by “rickstanford” said they were “FURIOUS!!!!” and expressed interest in sending their reported six Roku devices back to the company since “apparently I don’t own them despite spending hundreds of dollars on them.”

Another user going by Formercustomer, who, I suspect, is aptly named, wrote:

So, you buy a product, and you use it. And they want to change the terms limiting your rights, and they basically brick the device … if you don’t accept their new terms. … I hope they get their comeuppance here, as this is disgraceful.

Roku has further aggravated customers who have found that disagreeing to its updated terms is harder than necessary. Roku is willing to accept agreement to its terms with a single button press, but to opt out, users must jump through hoops that include finding that old book of stamps.

To opt out of Roku’s ToS update, which primarily changes the “Dispute Resolution Terms,” users must send a letter to Roku’s general counsel in California mentioning: “the name of each person opting out and contact information for each such person, the specific product models, software, or services used that are at issue, the email address that you used to set up your Roku account (if you have one), and, if applicable, a copy of your purchase receipt.” Roku required all this to opt out of its terms previously, as well.

But the new update means that while users read this information and have their letter delivered, they’re unable to use products they already paid for and used, in some cases for years, under different “dispute resolution terms.”

“I can’t watch my TV because I don’t agree to the Dispute Resolution Terms. Please help,” a user going by Campbell220 wrote on Roku’s support forum.

Based on the ToS’s wording, users could technically choose to agree to the ToS on their device and then write a letter saying they’d like to opt out. But opting into an agreement only to use a device under terms you don’t agree with is counterintuitive.

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News

Apple expands its Self Service Repair program for the Mac

Apple Self-Service Repair

Apple has announced that it is expanding its Self-Service Repair program for the Mac, the program now covers models of the MacBook Pro and iMac that are powered by the Apple M3 processors.

Apple has said that from March the new Self Service Repair program will be available in the US for the M3 powered versions of the Apple iMac and the Apple MacBook Prop laptops, you can see more details below.

Apple is also making Apple Diagnostics for Self Service Repair available for MacBook Pro and iMac models powered by M3 in the US early next month. Launched late last year for iPhone and Mac, Apple Diagnostics troubleshooting sessions give customers the same ability as Apple Authorised Service Providers and Independent Repair Providers to test devices for optimal part functionality and performance, as well as identify which parts may need repair.

In addition, Apple is updating the System Configuration process for all Mac models to streamline the repair process and make it more efficient. Mac users will no longer need to contact the Self Service Repair support team to run the final step of a repair, but the team will still be available to assist as needed. The updated process will become available early next month in all countries where Self Service Repair is supported.

You can find out more information about the new Macs that have been added to the Apple Self-Service Repair Program over at Apple’s website at the link below.

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Image Credit: N.Tho.Duc

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Samsung TV Plus gets Movie VOD Service in Korea

Samsung TV Plus

Samsung has announced that it is launching a movie VOD service for Samsung TV Plus in its home country of Korea, and they plan to work with KT Alpha to bring VOD content to the platform in Korea.

Samsung has said that there will be around 150 titles available by the end of 2023 and that they will be adding about 1,000 titles in 2024, there will be some Christmas movies available soon.

CJ ENM exclusive channels have also been added, so you can enjoy content from CJ ENM channels that are not available in other domestic FAST services, such as ‘Amazing Saturday’, ‘Our Blues’, and ‘Mr. Sunshine’.

Choi Yong-hoon, Vice President of Samsung Electronics’ Visual Display Business Division, said, “Considering the diverse tastes of users, we plan to expand VOD to more than 1,000 next year by strengthening content partnerships,” and added, “We plan to continuously improve consumer experience through high-quality content and UI updates.”

Samsung TV Plus is an ad-based free streaming (Free Ad-supported Streaming TV, FAST) service that allows you to enjoy a variety of content for free. You can enjoy content for free by watching ads without paying a monthly subscription fee.

You can find out more details about the Samsung TV Plus and its new movie VOD service over at Samsung at the link below, as yet there are no details on when it will be expanded to other countries.

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Apple Self Service Repair expands and receives new diagnostics process

Apple Self Service Repair expands and receives new diagnostics process 2024

Apple has announced the expansion of its Self Service Repair program, which provides repair manuals and genuine Apple parts to consumers and independent repair shops. The program now covers iPhone 15 models and recent Macs powered by Apple’s new M2 chips. Apple also introduced a new diagnostic tool called Apple Diagnostics for Apple Self Service Repair.

Self Service Repair originally launched in April 2022 for the iPhone 12, 13, and third-generation SE. With the latest expansion, it now covers all iPhone 15 models, including the iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, and 15 Pro Max.

On the Mac side, Self Service Repair has added support for models powered by Apple’s new M2 Pro and M2 Max chips. This includes the high-end 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro laptops, as well as the Mac mini, Mac Pro tower, and Mac Studio desktops. The less expensive MacBook Air and 13-inch MacBook Pro with M2 chips are not currently supported.

Apple has also expanded the do-it-yourself repair service to 24 additional European countries, including Croatia, Denmark, Greece, Netherlands, Portugal, and Switzerland. It’s now available in a total of 33 countries.

New Diagnostics Tool

Alongside the Self Service Repair expansion, Apple introduced Apple Diagnostics for the repair service. This is a new troubleshooting tool that provides the same diagnostic functionality used by Apple Stores and Apple Authorized Service Providers.

Apple Diagnostics allows users to run tests on device components like the battery, camera, and logic board. The tool provides detailed information to pinpoint exactly which parts need to be replaced to get a device functioning properly again. Apple says this will allow Self Service Repair customers to “quickly and reliably” determine issues.

Apple Diagnostics is currently only available in the U.S., with a planned expansion to Europe in 2024.

Apple Self Service Repair

Apple considers the repair service as part of its broader commitment to provide more repair options to device owners. The program lets experienced technicians access official Apple repair manuals and certified parts and tools. Previously, that level of access was restricted to authorized Apple repair centers.

Customers who use Self Service Repair can complete repairs with confidence that they are using quality replacement parts designed specifically for their devices. The program also allows more flexibility to businesses and schools that previously had to rely on outside repair shops.

For those without repair expertise, visiting an Apple Store or Apple Authorized Service Provider is still encouraged as the “safest and most reliable way” to get service. But Self Service Repair grants more autonomy to those with the skills and desire to handle device repairs independently.

Over the past three years, Apple says it has nearly doubled its third-party repair network to include over 4,500 Independent Repair Providers. When combined with over 5,000 official Apple Authorized Service Providers, the tech giant now has a global repair network with over 100,000 active technicians. This remains the preferred repair channel for most consumers. However, skilled technicians now have more options to obtain official Apple parts and information via Self Service Repair.

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How Businesses Can Improve Customer Service with ChatGPT

chatGPT customer service

In today’s competitive business landscape, providing exceptional customer service is crucial for success. Businesses that prioritize customer satisfaction are more likely to retain customers, attract new ones, and achieve long-term growth. ChatGPT, a large language model developed by OpenAI, has emerged as a powerful tool that can transform customer service operations and enhance the overall customer experience.

Understanding ChatGPT’s Capabilities

ChatGPT is a versatile language model that can be leveraged in various ways to improve customer service. Its ability to process and generate human-quality text makes it an ideal tool for automating routine tasks, providing personalized support, and gaining insights from customer interactions.

Automating Routine Tasks

ChatGPT can handle a wide range of repetitive customer service tasks, freeing up human agents to focus on more complex issues. Examples of tasks that ChatGPT can automate include:

  • Answering frequently asked questions (FAQs)
  • Providing basic product information
  • Processing orders and refunds
  • Handling password resets and account issues

By automating these tasks, businesses can reduce wait times, improve efficiency, and ensure that customers receive prompt responses.

Providing Personalized Support

  • ChatGPT can personalize customer interactions by analyzing customer data and tailoring responses accordingly. This personalized approach can enhance customer satisfaction and build stronger relationships.
  • Understanding Customer Intent: ChatGPT can analyze customer inquiries to understand their intent and provide relevant solutions. This capability ensures that customers receive accurate and timely assistance.
  • Tailoring Responses: ChatGPT can adapt its responses based on the customer’s context, personality, and preferences. This personalized approach makes interactions more engaging and meaningful.

Gaining Insights from Customer Interactions

ChatGPT can analyze customer interactions to extract valuable insights that can inform business decisions and improve customer service strategies.

Sentiment Analysis: ChatGPT can analyze customer sentiment to identify areas where customer satisfaction is low. This feedback can help businesses address underlying issues and improve customer experiences.

Trend Identification: ChatGPT can identify patterns and trends in customer feedback, allowing businesses to anticipate customer needs and adapt their offerings accordingly.

Implementing ChatGPT for Customer Service

Integrating ChatGPT into customer service operations involves careful planning and consideration.

  • Define Objectives: Clearly define the specific goals for using ChatGPT, such as reducing wait times, improving customer satisfaction, or automating routine tasks.
  • Select Implementation Channels: Determine the most appropriate channels for utilizing ChatGPT, such as chatbots, virtual assistants, or email support.
  • Train and Monitor: Train customer service agents to effectively utilize ChatGPT and closely monitor performance to ensure optimal results.

Real-World Applications

Numerous businesses across various industries are already harnessing the power of ChatGPT to enhance customer service.

  • E-commerce: E-commerce platforms can use ChatGPT to provide personalized product recommendations, answer customer queries about orders, and handle returns and exchanges.
  • Telecommunications: Telecommunications companies can employ ChatGPT to troubleshoot technical issues, offer account management assistance, and address billing inquiries.
  • Hospitality: Hospitality businesses can utilize ChatGPT to provide travel recommendations, assist with booking arrangements, and address customer concerns during their stay.
  • Summary

ChatGPT represents a transformative technology that can revolutionize customer service operations. By automating routine tasks, providing personalized support, and extracting valuable insights, businesses can significantly improve customer satisfaction, strengthen customer relationships, and achieve long-term success. As ChatGPT technology continues to evolve, its impact on customer service is bound to grow even more profound.

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XaaS or Everything as a Service explained

what does XaaS or Everything as a Service mean

If you would like to learn more about the meaning of  XaaS, or Everything as a Service, this quick guide will provide an overview of the broad category. Xaas represents a shift in how businesses and individuals access and use technology. Traditionally, companies would invest in physical hardware and software, requiring significant capital investment, maintenance, and upgrades. However, the advent of cloud computing has transformed this model.

XaaS, or Everything as a Service, is a cloud computing model that delivers a wide range of services over the internet, encompassing software, platforms, infrastructure, and more, in a scalable, subscription-based approach. This model allows users to access and utilize technology flexibly and cost-effectively, shifting away from traditional on-premise solutions. XaaS is known for its ease of use, scalability, and the ability to quickly adapt to changing business needs.

Imagine a world where you can access any digital tool or service you need over the internet, without having to own or maintain it. This is the reality of XaaS, or ‘Everything as a Service,’ a model that’s transforming how businesses operate. It’s a shift that’s making technology easier and more accessible than ever before.

XaaS includes well-known services like Software as a Service (SaaS), Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), and Platform as a Service (PaaS). These services are changing the game for companies by offering them a way to use software, infrastructure, and platforms through the web on a subscription basis.

  • Software as a Service (SaaS): Instead of purchasing and installing software on individual computers, users access applications over the internet. Examples include Google Workspace and Salesforce.
  • Platform as a Service (PaaS): This provides a platform allowing customers to develop, run, and manage applications without the complexity of building and maintaining the infrastructure. An example is Microsoft Azure.
  • Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS): This offers fundamental computing resources like virtualized servers, storage, and networking, on a pay-as-you-go basis. Amazon Web Services (AWS) is a well-known IaaS provider.

The “as a Service” model can extend beyond these core categories to include things like Database as a Service (DBaaS), Network as a Service (NaaS), and even emerging concepts like AI as a Service (AIaaS).

Here are some other articles you may find of interest on the subject of offering services powered by AI :

The benefits of XaaS

  • Cost Efficiency: Reduces the need for large upfront investments in IT infrastructure.
  • Scalability: Allows businesses to scale resources up or down based on demand.
  • Accessibility: Services are accessible from anywhere, facilitating remote work and global collaboration.
  • Innovation: Businesses can access the latest technologies without significant investments in upgrades.

At the heart of XaaS is the idea that you can get everything you need from the cloud. Instead of purchasing expensive software or hardware, you can simply subscribe to a service and use it over the internet. This means you can scale your usage up or down as needed and only pay for what you use. This flexibility can lead to cost savings and make it easier to manage your resources.

The main components of XaaS are SaaS, IaaS, and PaaS. With SaaS, you can use software applications over the internet without having to install anything on your own computers. Think about how you can send emails or create documents online without any complex setup—that’s SaaS in action. IaaS allows you to rent computing resources like servers and storage over the web.

This is great for when you need to quickly increase your capacity or if you’re starting a new project and want to keep initial costs low. PaaS gives you a platform to develop and manage applications without worrying about the underlying infrastructure. For developers, this means they can focus on building and deploying apps without the hassle of managing servers and databases.

Managing services in a hybrid cloud environment is crucial, and XaaS control platforms play a key role here. A hybrid cloud combines private and public clouds, allowing for the sharing of data and applications between them. These control platforms help you manage these resources efficiently, balancing speed, security, and cost.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is also becoming a big part of XaaS. You can now access AI services like machine learning, natural language processing, and predictive analytics through the cloud. This means you can leverage powerful AI capabilities to gain insights and automate tasks without needing to be an AI expert or invest in expensive hardware.

XaaS is reshaping how we interact with technology services. It offers a flexible, scalable, and cost-effective way to meet your tech needs. Whether it’s software, infrastructure, development platforms, or AI, XaaS can support your goals and drive innovation in your business. As you explore the world of XaaS, think about how these services can enhance your operations and help you stay ahead in the digital age.

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