Dave Sobel hosts a sponsored webinar discussing the modern endpoint management capabilities of Microsoft Intune, particularly its relevance for Managed Service Providers (MSPs). The session features Rolando Jimenez, a technical trainer at Nerdio, and Hugo Salazar, a Go Live engineer, who share their insights and experiences with Intune. They explore the evolution of Intune from a supplementary tool to a central component of Microsoft 365, emphasizing its integration with security products and the shift away from traditional on-premises solutions like Active Directory and Group Policy.

The conversation highlights the practical aspects of deploying Intune, including the importance of pre-planning and understanding the complexities involved in transitioning from legacy systems. Rolando and Hugo discuss common pitfalls that MSPs encounter when setting up Intune, such as the need for proper configuration and the significance of using tools like the Group Policy Analyzer. They also emphasize the benefits of using Intune's autopilot feature for zero-touch enrollment, which streamlines the onboarding process for new devices.

Security is a major focus, with the speakers addressing how Intune helps manage compliance and protect sensitive data, especially in a remote work environment. They explain the differences between Mobile Device Management (MDM) and Mobile Application Management (MAM), detailing how MAM allows for the protection of corporate data on personal devices without requiring full device management. This nuanced approach is crucial for organizations that want to balance user privacy with security needs.

As the discussion wraps up, Rolando and Hugo encourage MSPs to embrace Intune as a powerful tool for endpoint management. They stress the importance of leveraging the capabilities of Intune to enhance operational efficiency and security while providing practical advice for successful implementation. The session concludes with a Q&A segment, where they address specific questions from the audience, further clarifying the benefits and functionalities of Intune in modern IT management.

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Delta Airlines is set to revolutionize its pricing strategy by implementing artificial intelligence to determine the maximum price customers are willing to pay for flights. This shift aims for AI to influence 20% of ticket prices by the end of the year, a significant increase from the current 3%. The technology, developed by travel firm Fetcher, analyzes customer behavior and market conditions in real time. However, this personalized pricing strategy has raised concerns among privacy advocates, who argue that it may feel invasive and could erode customer trust. The implications of this dynamic pricing model extend beyond Delta, as businesses across various sectors may face similar challenges in balancing profitability with customer perception and regulatory compliance.

OpenAI has launched the ChatGPT Agent, a new capability that allows the AI to perform complex tasks autonomously, such as analyzing calendars and creating presentations. This advancement marks a significant shift from AI as a mere assistant to an autonomous actor capable of executing commands independently. The ChatGPT Agent has demonstrated impressive performance metrics, outperforming previous iterations in various benchmarks. However, OpenAI has acknowledged potential risks, including prompt injections that could lead to unintended actions with private data. As the AI landscape evolves, Microsoft’s Copilot struggles to gain traction, highlighting the competitive challenges in the market.

The podcast also discusses Intel's announcement of significant layoffs affecting over 5,000 employees as the company grapples with declining relevance in the semiconductor industry. The new CEO, Lip Butan, emphasizes the need for Intel to become leaner and more agile, reflecting a shift from previous costly turnaround strategies. This situation underscores the importance for service providers to pivot before clients feel the impact of supply chain issues. As Intel navigates these challenges, the broader implications for the tech industry and its workforce are significant.

Finally, the episode touches on internal chaos at OpenAI, as highlighted by former engineer Calvin French-Owen, who points out organizational challenges stemming from rapid growth. The lack of centralized planning has led to inefficiencies and communication breakdowns within the company. Additionally, the media industry's misguided pivot to AI is critiqued, emphasizing that quality journalism relies on human connection rather than automated output. The discussion raises important questions about the future of AI, data management, and the evolving landscape of technology, urging listeners to consider the implications for their own businesses and clients.

Three things to know today

00:00 Delta’s AI Wants to Know What You’ll Pay—Is That the Future of Business?

04:32 OpenAI Unveils ChatGPT Agent: AI Now Acts Autonomously With Virtual Computer

08:41 Intel Slims Down: Leaner Team, Fewer Chips, Big Questions Ahead

09:45 Is AI the Fix or Just a Fad? Why It’s Time to Challenge Old Tech Assumptions

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Microsoft is undergoing a significant restructuring, placing artificial intelligence (AI) at the forefront of its strategy. The company has announced the layoff of approximately 9,000 employees, primarily targeting generalist sales roles, as it shifts towards a model that prioritizes technical expertise over traditional relationship-building in sales. This move is part of a broader initiative to enhance its AI offerings, particularly through its Copilot program, which has seen a 50% increase in funding and a 70% rise in partner incentives. Microsoft aims to eliminate product silos and align its go-to-market strategy with customer priorities, emphasizing the importance of AI integration in sales and service delivery.

OpenAI is also making waves by diversifying its cloud infrastructure, now utilizing Google Cloud alongside Microsoft, CoreWeave, and Oracle. This strategic shift comes as OpenAI prepares to introduce new features in its ChatGPT platform, including a checkout function for e-commerce, which will allow users to make purchases directly through the chatbot. The company is positioning itself to compete more directly with Microsoft’s Office suite by enhancing productivity tools and integrating e-commerce capabilities, signaling a move from being a model provider to an end-user platform.

Amazon Web Services (AWS) has launched a new platform called Amazon Bedrock Agent Core, designed to facilitate collaboration among AI agents across organizations. This platform aims to address concerns about job security in the face of AI advancements, as it allows for the construction of interconnected AI agents capable of performing various tasks. Unlike competitors, AWS's offering is designed to be flexible and support multiple AI frameworks, positioning it as a neutral infrastructure provider in the AI landscape.

In a rapid-fire segment, several companies have announced new partnerships and product updates. iRACA has teamed up with TD Cynics to extend its secure access services, while cgen.ai has launched a platform to streamline AI workloads. Nutrien has improved its Document AI software, and Cohesity has integrated its data management platform with Microsoft 365 Copilot, enabling users to leverage backup data for informed decision-making. These developments highlight a trend towards enabling service providers to evolve from mere technical support to delivering measurable business outcomes.

Four things to know today

00:00 Microsoft Shakes Up Partner Strategy with AI Funding Boost and Workforce Realignment

05:42 OpenAI’s Cloud Diversification and Agent Ambitions Could Upend SMB Workflows

08:35 AWS Launches AgentCore to Build Networks of Interconnected AI Agents

11:15 Aryaka, C-Gen.AI, Nutrient, Cohesity Roll Out Innovations Targeting Business Value

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Managed service providers (MSPs) are increasingly becoming essential partners for mid-market organizations, with a recent Barracuda Networks survey revealing that 85% of firms with 1,000 to 2,000 employees now depend on MSPs for integrated security support. This shift highlights the growing complexity of cybersecurity challenges that these organizations face, as they seek to manage a multitude of disconnected security tools. The survey indicates a willingness among 92% of organizations to pay a premium for enhanced support, emphasizing the need for MSPs to demonstrate technical mastery and deliver ongoing value.

The podcast discusses the implications of this trend, noting that while MSPs may feel indispensable, they are also facing pressure from vendors who are building direct relationships with mid-market clients. The demand for 24/7 security coverage and transparency about security practices is high, with many organizations willing to switch providers if their needs are not met. This creates a challenging environment for MSPs, who must evolve from being mere resellers of security tools to becoming orchestrators of comprehensive security outcomes.

Additionally, the episode covers the ongoing licensing disputes between Siemens and Broadcom following Broadcom's acquisition of VMware. The shift from perpetual licenses to subscription models has led to significant price increases, causing frustration among enterprise customers. As organizations like Siemens seek alternatives, the podcast highlights the growing market for VMware exit planning and license optimization services, presenting opportunities for IT providers to assist clients in navigating these challenges.

Finally, the discussion touches on broader trends in software licensing and the rise of open-source solutions as enterprises grapple with compliance issues. The increasing use of unapproved AI tools, known as Shadow AI, among employees poses additional risks, prompting IT leaders to seek trusted partners who can help them manage these complexities. The episode concludes by emphasizing the need for MSPs to pivot from reactive approaches to strategic advisory roles, guiding clients through the evolving landscape of technology and security.

Three things to know today

00:00 Barracuda Warns: Midmarket Clients Expect 24/7 Security and Transparency—or They’ll Walk

05:20 Siemens vs. Broadcom: VMware Licensing Fight Highlights Industry Turmoil

09:08 $500K Compliance Costs and Shadow AI Adoption Push IT Leaders to Seek Trusted Advisors

11:52 KnowBe4 Targets Human Error, Microsoft Nudges Windows 11, Amazon Stumbles on Alexa Web

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A recent study supported by Apple reveals that a new artificial intelligence model, known as the wearable behavior model, can flag health conditions with an impressive accuracy of 92%. This model, trained on over 2.5 billion hours of data from wearable devices, outperforms traditional health prediction methods that rely solely on basic biometric measurements. Researchers found that behavioral data, such as movement and sleep patterns, often provide stronger health signals than conventional metrics. The model has shown superior performance in dynamic health prediction tasks, including detecting pregnancy and assessing sleep quality.

In the realm of education, non-profits are leveraging AI to address global inequities. Education Above All, a non-profit organization based in Qatar, has partnered with prestigious institutions like MIT and Harvard to create DigiWise, a free program aimed at improving AI literacy in developing countries. This initiative allows children to combat misinformation and utilize AI tools in the classroom. Their generative AI chatbot, Furby, is currently being used by over 5 million children in India, providing access to project-based learning resources.

However, not all news is positive. A study from the AI benchmarking non-profit, METER, indicates that AI coding tools may actually hinder productivity for experienced developers, increasing task completion time by 19%. Developers had expected these tools to save time, but the reality was a slowdown due to factors such as unrealistic expectations, unfamiliarity with repositories, and the complexity of codebases. This highlights a significant gap between the anticipated benefits of AI tools and their actual performance in real-world scenarios.

Additionally, a report from Cloud Zero reveals that while 91% of companies believe their AI investments are yielding returns, only half can substantiate this with concrete data. AI budgets are projected to increase significantly, yet many organizations struggle with visibility into their AI costs and return on investment. This situation underscores the need for effective cost tracking and governance in AI investments, as many companies risk overspending without clear evidence of ROI. The podcast emphasizes the importance of focusing on AI financial governance to help clients navigate these challenges and ensure sustainable growth in the sector.

Three things to know today

00:00 Wearable AI Achieves 92% Accuracy While Coding Tools Slow Developers by 19%, Reports Find

07:08 Model Wars Heat Up: Open Source Kimi K2 Outperforms GPT-4 While Corporates Cut Chatbot Spend

11:53 MSP Workflow Wars: New Integrations Highlight Critical Role of Orchestration in IT Services

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A recent report by Auvik reveals significant challenges faced by managed service providers (MSPs), highlighting issues such as tool sprawl, burnout among IT professionals, and the increasing reliance on IT generalists. The report indicates that 50% of MSPs use over ten tools to manage client networks, with many professionals experiencing high levels of stress and burnout. The ongoing retirement of baby boomers in the IT sector exacerbates these issues, leading to a demand for specialists who can assist generalists in navigating the complexities of technology. Key areas of interest for IT professionals include cybersecurity planning and cloud computing, as they seek to enhance productivity and user experience.

In addition to the challenges faced by MSPs, two significant cybersecurity incidents have come to light. Kaseya's Network Detective tool was found to have critical vulnerabilities that could expose sensitive data across managed environments. Similarly, a flaw in McDonald's chatbot job application platform compromised the personal information of over 64 million applicants due to weak security measures. These incidents underscore the importance of robust vendor security practices, as clients often hold their MSPs accountable for data breaches, regardless of the source.

The podcast also discusses the ongoing struggle for right-to-repair legislation, which has seen limited enforcement despite public support. A report indicates that many products lack accessible repair materials, and manufacturers continue to resist changes that would facilitate repairs. This situation presents an opportunity for service firms to incorporate repairability into their procurement strategies and asset management services, aligning with client values around sustainability and cost control.

Finally, Sonomi has launched new tools aimed at enhancing business impact analysis and continuity planning for cybersecurity professionals. These tools are designed to help MSPs communicate the business value of cybersecurity to leadership, shifting the perception of security from a cost center to a value driver. The success of these initiatives will depend on MSPs' ability to integrate these features into their service delivery, ultimately positioning them as strategic partners who understand both technology and business needs.

Four things to know today

00:00 Auvik Report Warns MSPs of Tool Sprawl, Talent Drain, and Rising Burnout

04:10 Kaseya and McDonald’s Incidents Reveal Fragile Trust in Vendor Security Practices

07:01 Manufacturers Withhold Parts, Manuals Despite State-Level Repair Rights Legislation

08:40 Cynomi Adds Business Impact and Continuity Planning Tools to Help MSPs Drive Strategic Outcomes

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Bob Burke, Chief Information Security Officer at Beyond Identity, challenges the effectiveness of traditional multi-factor authentication (MFA) in the evolving landscape of cybersecurity. He argues that legacy MFA solutions, which often rely on out-of-band authorization methods like push notifications or one-time passwords, are no longer sufficient against the rising tide of sophisticated cyber threats. With the advent of services like phishing-as-a-service, attackers can easily bypass these outdated security measures, necessitating a shift towards phishing-resistant authentication methods. Burke emphasizes the need for organizations to adopt solutions that not only enhance security but also consider device posture and trustworthiness.

Burke also critiques the current state of FIDO2 and passkeys, acknowledging their potential while highlighting their limitations, particularly in terms of device posture and user experience. He suggests that small to mid-sized businesses (SMBs) should prioritize phishing-resistant solutions that integrate both browser protection and device authentication. Furthermore, he raises concerns about the pricing models of many Software as a Service (SaaS) providers, which often place essential security features behind higher-tier subscriptions, effectively discouraging customers from adopting more secure practices.

The conversation shifts to the endpoint detection and response (EDR) market, where Burke notes that while EDR solutions are still necessary, they are evolving into more comprehensive offerings like extended detection and response (XDR). He points out that many of these solutions are priced for enterprise-level organizations, leaving SMBs and mid-market companies struggling to find affordable options. Burke encourages these organizations to seek out solutions that fit their budget while still providing essential security capabilities.

Finally, Burke shares insights from his experience with the FedRAMP certification process, emphasizing the importance of building internal security competencies and integrating security into product design from the outset. He advocates for a clear internal compliance program, such as NIST, to guide organizations in their security efforts. As the cybersecurity landscape continues to evolve, Burke warns that the tempo and scope of attacks are increasing, driven by advancements in AI, and urges organizations to reassess their security architectures to stay ahead of emerging threats.

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Artificial intelligence (AI) is evolving beyond a mere tool to become the foundational operating system for modern businesses, particularly in the SMB and mid-market sectors. Anurag Agarwal, founder and chief global analyst at TechIsle, discusses the transformative potential of AI as an operating system (AIOS), which would integrate intelligent capabilities at the core of computing. This concept envisions a system that learns user behavior, anticipates needs, and automates tasks, blurring the lines between user intent and system action. However, Agarwal emphasizes that we are still in the early stages of this evolution, with AIOS being more of an aspirational goal than a current reality.

The conversation also delves into the concept of agentic AI, which represents a shift from traditional robotic process automation (RPA) to more autonomous, judgment-driven automation. While many SMBs are exploring agentic AI for applications like customer service and IT operations, the adoption remains nascent. The research indicates that businesses are looking for solutions that can handle complex processes without human intervention, highlighting the need for operational autonomy. Agarwal points out that the challenges of integrating AI into existing workflows and ensuring accountability for AI-driven decisions are significant hurdles that need to be addressed.

Security is another critical theme discussed, as AI presents both opportunities and risks. The podcast highlights the dual nature of AI as a "sword and a shield," where it can be used to enhance security measures but also introduces new attack vectors. Threats such as social engineering, data poisoning, and automated exploitation are becoming more prevalent, necessitating advanced security solutions. Agarwal mentions that while some vendors are making strides in AI-powered security, there is still a gap in readiness for SMBs and mid-market firms to effectively implement these solutions.

Finally, the discussion touches on the importance of unified experience platforms (UXPs) that integrate customer and employee experiences. Agarwal explains that these platforms aim to streamline communication and enhance interactions across various touchpoints, ultimately driving operational efficiency and customer satisfaction. However, there is a notable gap in the readiness of the partner channel to implement these solutions effectively. The conversation concludes with a call for MSPs to focus on understanding customer needs and building their capabilities to bridge this gap, ensuring they can deliver the integrated solutions that businesses are increasingly seeking.

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Columbia University has recently suffered a significant data breach, compromising the personal information of 1.8 million individuals, including social security numbers and financial aid details. The hacker, motivated by political opposition to affirmative action policies, claims to have stolen 460 gigabytes of sensitive data. This incident is part of a troubling trend of politically motivated cyber attacks targeting higher education institutions, particularly following the Supreme Court's decision to bar affirmative action practices in 2023. The limited media coverage of this breach raises concerns about data security and the integrity of academic institutions.

In a related development, malware detection has surged by 171% in the first quarter of 2025, according to a report from WatchGuard Technologies. This increase highlights the growing sophistication of cyber threats that are outpacing traditional defenses. The report indicates a staggering 712% rise in new malware threats on endpoints, with the LSASS dumper identified as a leading threat. This trend underscores the need for organizations, especially universities and small businesses, to recognize the escalating risks and adapt their security strategies accordingly.

Huntress has announced a collaboration with Microsoft to enhance cybersecurity for businesses, integrating its enterprise-grade solutions with Microsoft environments. This partnership aims to provide essential protections for endpoints and identities, allowing organizations to respond more effectively to cyber threats. Meanwhile, Microsoft is discontinuing the use of its Authenticator app for password storage, prompting users to transition to alternative solutions. This shift emphasizes the need for users to rethink their credential management strategies in light of evolving security practices.

The podcast also touches on the implications of recent incidents involving major IT service providers, such as Ingram Micro's ransomware attack, which has raised concerns about vendor trust and supply chain fragility. As vendors face scrutiny following security breaches, the erosion of trust in their products becomes a significant issue for managed service providers (MSPs). Additionally, the discussion includes emerging concepts in artificial intelligence, such as context engineering, and the growing prevalence of AI note-takers in meetings, which raises questions about the balance between technological efficiency and human interaction in the workplace.

Four things to know today

00:00 Columbia Breach and Malware Surge Show Why Compliance Alone Fails in Today’s Threat Landscape

04:19 Huntress and Microsoft Join Forces to Bring Enterprise-Grade Security to SMBs and MSPs

07:18 Palo Alto Networks Denies Involvement in Ingram Micro Ransomware Attack

08:53 MCP’s Universal Plugin Model Could Transform MSP Integration and Governance

This is the Business of Tech.   

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Daily AI use among desk workers has surged dramatically, with a report from Slack indicating a 233% increase since November. While 60% of these workers now regularly utilize AI tools, the integration has led to significant boosts in productivity and job satisfaction. However, the report also highlights concerning trends, such as increased burnout among those heavily engaged with AI, with 88% more likely to experience burnout and twice as likely to consider quitting compared to their peers. This dependence on AI is weakening psychological safety within teams, raising alarms about the long-term implications of AI adoption in the workplace.

The rise of shadow AI is another pressing issue, as employees increasingly use unauthorized AI tools, outpacing IT teams' ability to evaluate these applications for risks. A report from ManageEngine reveals that over 80% of technology leaders feel overwhelmed by the rapid adoption of these tools, with significant concerns about data leakage and cybersecurity. Despite the rapid integration of AI into business operations, many companies still lack clear governance policies, and a majority of employees are requesting more training on AI usage risks. This gap in governance and training is particularly pronounced in small businesses, where only 14% of employees use AI daily.

Confidence in AI initiatives among C-suite executives is declining, with only 58% trusting their company's AI strategies, down from 69% the previous year. This decline is particularly notable among CEOs, whose confidence dropped from 82% to 49%. In contrast, chief human resource officers and chief operating officers reported increased confidence, reflecting a focus on internal execution and workforce preparation. The report also highlights a worrying skills gap, with only 55% of chief technology officers believing their teams possess sufficient AI knowledge to navigate its risks and opportunities.

Amid these challenges, Microsoft has announced a $4 billion initiative to improve AI education across the United States, aiming to train millions in effective AI usage. This initiative aligns with a broader movement among tech companies to incorporate AI tools into educational settings. As Microsoft integrates AI deeply into its ecosystem, clients will increasingly expect their teams and partners to keep pace with these advancements. The overarching trend suggests that organizations must not only adopt AI technologies but also develop governance frameworks and training programs to manage the complexities and risks associated with AI.

Four things to know today

00:00 AI Adoption Surges but Brings Burnout, Shadow IT Risks, and Leadership Doubt

06:00 FTC’s “Click to Cancel” Rule Overturned, but Subscription Pressure Isn’t Going Away

07:32 Rewst and Barracuda Push AI-Driven MSP Tools as Teams Evolves With Threaded Conversations

11:05 Microsoft Pledges $4B for AI Education as Healthcare AI Surpasses Doctors in Diagnosis

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