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This week: AI Teachers

This week: AI Teachers

plus Siri spying, net neutrality, at home beauty

Brett Bouchard
January 04, 2025

Wise Tech - Technology news for non-tech humans!

I think we’ll see more and more hybrid methods of a human teacher with personalized AI.

1. AI Teachers Are Coming to Arizona Schools

What’s the tech
AI teachers (computer programs using artificial intelligence to simulate human-like thinking and behavior) are being introduced to classrooms in Arizona as part of a broader trend in education. These AI systems use advanced algorithms (step-by-step problem-solving procedures) to adapt lessons to students' needs, answer questions, and even grade assignments.

How it’s used
In Arizona, these AI systems are being tested in schools to help teachers manage large classes. For example, they can provide students with extra practice problems or explain concepts in different ways to match each student’s learning style.

Why it's news now
The rise of AI in education reflects how schools are adopting new tools to fill gaps, especially in areas with teacher shortages. Arizona is one of the first states to pilot this program, and its success could influence other states.

2. Apple to Pay $95 Million for Siri Spying

What’s the tech
Apple’s voice assistant, Siri, is a virtual assistant (software that helps users perform tasks through voice commands). However, Siri has been caught recording conversations without permission, leading to a $95 million lawsuit settlement.

How it’s used
Siri is built into Apple devices like iPhones and iPads, allowing users to set reminders, send messages, or get answers just by speaking. The problem arose when it was discovered that Siri sometimes recorded snippets of conversations even when users didn’t intend to activate it. These recordings were sometimes analyzed by Apple employees.

Why it's news now
This settlement is part of growing scrutiny on big tech companies over privacy. While Apple promotes itself as privacy-focused, this case highlights the challenges of balancing convenience with ethical data handling.

3. Federal Appeals Court Strikes Down FCC Net Neutrality Rules

What’s the tech
Net neutrality (the principle that internet service providers should treat all data equally) faced a major setback after a federal appeals court struck down rules protecting it.

How it’s used
With net neutrality rules, internet providers couldn’t slow down, block, or charge extra for access to certain websites or services. For example, your internet provider couldn’t make Netflix slower while speeding up its own streaming service. Without these rules, providers could prioritize their own content or charge extra for certain sites.

Why it's news now
The court’s decision could reshape how we experience the internet. Consumer advocates worry that this will make the internet more expensive and less fair, while providers argue they need flexibility to improve services.

Bonus Topic: High Tech (and High Cost) Beauty at Home

What it does
High-tech beauty devices are making it easier to get spa-like treatments at home. From LED masks to microcurrent wands (tools using gentle electric currents to tighten skin), these gadgets are designed to tackle wrinkles, acne, and other skin concerns.

How it’s used
Users can follow simple steps to operate these devices, like wearing an LED mask for 10 minutes a day or using a wand to massage their face. Some devices are even app-connected, allowing users to track results or get personalized routines.

Why it's popular
As beauty enthusiasts look for convenience, these tools offer a way to maintain skincare routines without visiting a spa. Social media trends and endorsements from celebrities have also fueled their popularity. However, the steep price tags—often hundreds of dollars—make them a luxury for many.

Conversation starter
“What do you think about these high-tech beauty gadgets? Would you try one, or do you prefer the old-fashioned approach?”