Technology Feature
Lead: What AI means for the ways we work
Entering the workforce in the AI era is both exciting and dizzying. With developments happening at pace, there are countless new applications for the tech yet to be fully explored. No one can say with certainty in which direction we may be headed when it comes to AI, but we are headed there fast. At such a dynamic and uncertain juncture, how do we adapt at work to keep up?

Smiling Robot
I personally use AI tools like Microsoft’s Copilot every day to cut through repetitive tasks and spend more time doing the things I love at work. I like to think of it like being an AI’s manager (might be a stretch on the CV). If this becomes the norm, will we all leave the boring bits to the bots and have more time on our hands to be creative and social? AI bosses seem to think so. Slack CEO Stewart Butterfield hopes that AI will one day replace what he calls the “mind-numbing behaviour" of daily work responsibilities. A tall order.
I worry, though, that I might be burning the steps. Repetitive, menial work is exactly what junior employees like myself need to build core skills and confidence using software. Learning comes from grappling with a task and falling short of what's required. If we rely too much on AI tools, we might do ourselves a disservice in the long run and stunt our career growth. When used thoughtfully, AI can be a time-saving asset. But used unwisely, it can become a crutch. Today’s workplace expects us to work with AI. Judgment, creativity, empathy and critical thinking will be essential in navigating the future of work and these remain exclusively human qualities. We should both embrace change and be cautious of how we react to it.
Are your Passwords Safe from Hackers?
We all have far too many passwords. Sometimes, they’re impossible to keep track of. But for potential hackers, nabbing your sign-in data is painfully easy. Amid rising cyber security threats and sophisticated new software, we must take extra precaution to keep prying hands at bay. Research from Soax finds that, since 2017, 555 million stolen passwords surfaced on the dark web. That’s a huge blow to privacy, especially since much of our most sensitive personal information now lives online. So, what can be done to prevent this digital intrusion?
Update Your Privacy Settings: Regularly review and adjust your social media privacy settings.
Utilize Strong, Unique Passwords: Use long, complex passwords and manage them with a reputable password manager.
Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN): A VPN encrypts your internet connection, making it harder for hackers to intercept your data.
Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): This adds an extra layer of security to your accounts.
Secure Your Home Network: Change default passwords on all devices and secure your Wi-Fi network with a strong password.
In-Flight Wifi is Getting an Upgrade
Holidaymakers heading off this summer could soon find themselves enjoying faster, more reliable internet as airlines introduce Starlink satellite Wi-Fi. Research by Airport Parking & Hotels (APH) reveals that British Airways, Air France, Iberia, Virgin Atlantic, LEVEL and Vueling are all set to roll out Starlink connectivity in 2026. Qatar Airways has already begun. The new service promises faster, more consistent onboard internet, with airlines planning to offer free high-speed Wi-Fi on Starlink-equipped flights. The study finds that entertainment options are set to improve too. Qatar Airways' Oryx One platform offers up to 8,000 films, TV programmes, music and games.
Nick Caunter, Managing Director of APH.com, said: "High-speed satellite Wi-Fi will be a major improvement for passengers who want to stay connected in the sky, whether for business, entertainment or keeping in touch with family. While some airlines are making huge strides, the onboard experience still varies widely between carriers and even between aircraft, and knowing what is available on your flight can help travellers plan ahead."
