TECHSWU

In a groundbreaking move to enhance school security, the Uvalde Consolidated Independent School District is set to implement an AI gun detection system, just three years after the tragic Robb Elementary shooting. Thanks to a grant from Omnilert, a leading gun detection tech company, the district will receive this cutting-edge system—along with full training and support—at no cost for three years.

The AI technology continuously monitors campus camera feeds for firearms and quickly alerts a human operator for verification before triggering a safety response, including notifying first responders and securing school facilities. While some parents may have privacy concerns, Omnilert assures that the system does not use biometrics or facial recognition, focusing solely on detecting guns.

This initiative not only aims to protect Uvalde students but could also pave the way for similar systems in schools, hospitals, and public spaces across the country.

In 2025, staying connected beyond cellular reach is a breeze with the best satellite phones and communicators expertly reviewed by ZDNet. From the top-rated Starlink Mini, a compact dish providing high-speed internet, to budget-friendly options like the Spot Gen 4, these devices cater to adventurers and emergency seekers alike.

Whether you're itching for adventure or just want a reliable SOS tool, models like the Garmin inReach Messenger Plus offer photo and voice messaging, while Iridium Go! acts as a mobile hotspot. For those who prioritize voice calls, the Inmarsat IsatPhone 2.

1 delivers robust functionality.

Introducing Showrunner, the revolutionary app by San Francisco startup Fable, which empowers users to create their own AI-powered shows in just minutes! Dubbed the “Netflix of AI” and backed by Amazon, Showrunner makes content creation easier than ever. Users can watch the app's debut series, “Exit Valley”—a satirical take on Silicon Valley featuring characters inspired by tech giants like Sam Altman and Elon Musk.

What’s truly exciting is that you can also become a part of the action by describing your own character and storyline. Your creation is ready within minutes! Currently, Showrunner is free for users, but plans to evolve into a subscription service in the future.

In his latest SLUG Magazine column, Mike Brown dives into the whirlwind world of artificial intelligence, balancing humor with insightful commentary. He muses about the rapid tech advancements, particularly AI's growing role in our lives, including its quirky presence in TikTok memes and the academic sphere, where students are leveraging ChatGPT for essay writing—raising eyebrows about the future of learning.

While Brown finds amusement in the prospect of robots taking over mundane jobs, like those often botched DoorDash deliveries, he also expresses a more serious concern: the potential for AI to disrupt the workforce and influence society. Through his light-hearted narrative, he reflects on a future where humans might be outpaced by machines, while playfully contemplating an experiment: submitting his original and ChatGPT-generated articles to see which gets published.

Brown ends with a cheeky nod to the upcoming Craft Lake City DIY Festival, making his musings a blend of wit and community spirit.

Higround is raising the bar in esports-themed tech peripherals with the launch of its exciting new 'Vantage Collection,' created in collaboration with renowned esports agency 100 Thieves. This anticipated collection, set to drop on August 1, features standout items like the Team Issue Wrist Rest, Yuma Wireless Mouse, and an array of stylish keycap sets, blending performance with unique design elements inspired by top-tier esports teams.

Available exclusively at Higround, Best Buy, and Micro Center, these products cater to gamers seeking both functionality and aesthetics. Higround emphasizes a fusion of style and competitive spirit, promising a gaming experience that's not just about play but also personal expression.

Mark your calendars! A total solar eclipse, dubbed the "eclipse of the century," will grace the skies on August 2, 2027. Contrary to misleading buzz, the world won’t dim for six minutes on August 2, 2025—this claim has been debunked by NASA.

Instead, the majestic celestial event will cast a shadow over parts of Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East, creating a brief period of near darkness lasting up to 6 minutes and 22 seconds. This rare phenomenon occurs when the Moon entirely obscures the Sun, revealing the stunning solar corona.

While those in the path of totality will witness this awe-inspiring darkness, a partial eclipse will be visible across broader regions of Africa, Europe, and southern Asia.

In an enlightening exploration, Aon's article delves into how Artificial Intelligence (AI) is reshaping industries by streamlining operations and enhancing decision-making through data insights. While established rule-based AI thrives in sectors like telecommunications, the rise of agentic AI in customer-focused areas like retail highlights both the immense potential and significant challenges—such as data security and model selection.

The piece stresses the necessity for businesses to adopt AI thoughtfully, integrating risk management from the outset to navigate emerging complexities. As the AI landscape evolves, Aon foresees an increased demand for specialized insurance to mitigate associated risks.

The article also provides an alphabetical list of global countries and encourages readers to subscribe to their newsletter for the latest insights on risk management, data analytics, and more. Aon’s commitment to privacy is emphasized throughout, ensuring users can engage safely and confidently with their resources.