AI round-up: what's happening in your sector?

Struggling to figure out what to do with three carrots and a half-empty jar of chutney? Ask AI for a recipe. Can’t keep up with your ever-changing workflow? Let AI organise it for you. Need a second pair of eyes on that presentation script? Enlist an AI editor.

Artificial intelligence is revolutionising our personal and professional lives. To keep your business at the cutting edge, discover some of the most recent AI breakthroughs and what they mean for their respective industries…

Co-op gets smart with security

The Co-op grocery chain is fighting back against rising crime with some high-tech help. They've reported a nearly 20% jump in losses – that’s a whopping £40 million in just the first half of 2024. 

To tackle this, Co-op is investing £18 million in security, and testing out AI technology in 14 of their stores. This snazzy new tech will help spot theft and hidden weapons, keeping their staff and customers safe.

Teaching the future 

The UK government is rolling out an exciting new project to bring AI into schools, with a £4 million budget to boot. The goal? To create AI tools that make lesson planning and marking a breeze for teachers. That way, they can ditch the paperwork and spend more time engaging with students and boosting their learning experience. 

Key features include a nifty “content store” filled with government-approved educational materials and AI-generated lesson plans customised just for teachers.

AI trailblazers

A new report from investment firm Shore Capital has shone a spotlight on companies that are making waves through AI. Instead of hopping on the bandwagon, businesses like Pearson, WPP, and Next 15 Group are smartly weaving AI into their strategies to fuel growth and up their game for clients. For example, WPP is using its own AI platform to supercharge marketing strategies. 

The healthcare revolution

As the NHS grapples with the challenges posed by waiting lists and a shortage of accessible care, a golden opportunity has emerged for AI to alleviate the strain on healthcare by improving drug discovery, streamlining clinical trials, and accelerating patient pathways. 

By combining AI’s capabilities with human expertise, experts are hopeful we can improve diagnosis, speed up access to treatments, and ultimately provide better care for patients.

SaaS platforms get personal

Leading SaaS platforms like Grammarly and Salesforce are taking user experience to the next level with AI, making interactions feel more personal and engaging. 

And the excitement doesn’t stop there – innovative startups like London’s AudioSlack are shaking up audio production by using AI to help businesses create high-quality audio assets in a fraction of the time.

Fasthosts embraces AI

We’re always looking for innovative ways to expand our products and services. And not one to trail behind the bandwagon, Fasthosts is jumping into the driving seat with Pip – our AI-powered domain name generator. Pip makes finding your new domain name simple, saving you valuable time while making sure you stand out in the online crowd. Get in touch on 0800 0612 153 to find out more.