It’s time for Bits & Bytes…

… where we bring you news, innovations, and thought-provoking insights from AI, IT, and beyond. In this week’s newsletter we’re looking at:

• Your PC might be too old for Windows 11
• No more tracking rich people’s jets
• Steam’s policy sparks debate on digital inheritance

 

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

🖥️ TPM 2.0: The Gatekeeper of Windows 11

Microsoft’s official end-of-support announcement for Windows 10 has sparked confusion and frustration for some users (aka me).

While Windows 11 boasts improved performance and security features, it comes with stricter hardware requirements compared to its predecessor. This means that not all new systems are automatically compatible.

Users with “older” hardware may encounter upgrade limitations since Windows 11 can only run on newer CPUs with specific features like TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot. My 5-year-old PC (which I still think is neat) cannot run Windows 11. My friend’s PC which is only 3 years old doesn’t even have TPM 2.0.

It’s crucial to carefully check your system specifications and utilize Microsoft’s official compatibility checker tool before trying to upgrade. Remember, even if your system meets the minimum requirements, there’s a possibility of encountering compatibility issues with specific drivers or software.

TL;DR

• Windows 11 only runs on newer CPUs with specific features, leaving many perfectly good PCs stuck with Windows 10.
• Use Microsoft’s compatibility checker to avoid compatibility headaches.
• Driver and software conflicts can still pop up, so upgrade with caution.

 

TECH HEADLINES FROM ACROSS THE WEB

 

✈️ Private Jets Go Incognito

Congress just made it nearly impossible to track the private planes of the rich and famous, including Taylor Swift. I mean, have you watched the video of her two planes popping around the world in 2023? It’s equally depressing and impressive. This amended law that passed has some people questioning whether our elected officials are more concerned with protecting the privacy of the 1% than the environment.

 

🪦 Digital Graveyard

Someone asked Valve, the parent company of Steam, a game distribution platform, if they could include their Steam library in their will. Valve said no which upset a lot of people who likely never thought about this issue before seeing this interaction. Users decided they’d just share their account credentials. Other users realize sharing credentials is useless as Steam has a policy that will deactivate accounts that are in use past an average lifespan. This sparks the conversation of how our digital possessions should be handled after we’re gone? Should they simply vanish, or do we need better systems for digital inheritance?

 

💰️ AI Gold Rush

The booming AI field has created a significant pay gap between AI software engineers and their non-AI counterparts. As of April 2024, the median salary for AI engineers in the US was nearly $300,000 (some companies offering up to $1 mil), about $100,000 higher than non-AI software technicians. To attract top talent, companies are offering high salaries, acquiring startups, and investing in training programs. This trend is expected to continue as Big Tech continues to invest heavily in AI development.

 

TECH FOR GOOD

T-Mobile’s acquisition of US Cellular holds promising potential for tech for good. By combining resources, the deal could significantly improve connectivity in underserved rural areas. US Cellular’s strong presence in these regions, coupled with T-Mobile’s network, can bridge the digital divide.

Additionally, T-Mobile’s competitive pricing and US Cellular’s existing customer base can increase market competition, potentially driving down prices and making mobile services more accessible. The combined resources can also fuel further network upgrades and infrastructure development, benefiting all users.

While concerns about market consolidation exist, the potential to bridge the digital divide and empower underserved communities through improved connectivity and affordability is significant. I know it seems like I’m saying “can” and “might” a lot here, but I have a good feeling on this one.