Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights

AI-powered code generation tools are raising significant security concerns within the software supply chain. Recent research indicates that a notable percentage of package suggestions from both commercial and open-source models are non-existent, a phenomenon referred to as "hallucination." This issue allows malicious actors to exploit these fictitious package names by uploading harmful software to package registries, a tactic known as slop-squatting. Experts emphasize the importance of manual verification and the use of dependency scanners to mitigate these risks, highlighting that developers must rigorously test AI-generated code in isolated environments before deployment.In the tech industry, Intel has made headlines by selling a 51% stake in its programmable chip business, Altera, to private equity firm Silverlake for $4.46 billion. This decision comes after Intel's acquisition of Altera for $16.7 billion in 2015, reflecting a significant drop in valuation. The move is part of a broader strategy to sharpen focus and strengthen the company's balance sheet amid ongoing challenges in the semiconductor market. Despite retaining a minority stake in Altera, Intel's actions raise questions about its ability to compete effectively in critical areas like AI-optimized silicon.Another pressing issue is the impending reduction of the maximum lifespan for SSL and TLS certificates, which will be cut to just 47 days by 2029. This change, supported by major tech companies, aims to enhance digital security by minimizing risks associated with compromised certificates. The transition will require automated and integrated certificate management solutions to keep pace with the new renewal cycles, emphasizing the need for proactive risk management in the evolving threat landscape.Lastly, the reinstatement of tariffs on electronics, including smartphones and laptops, is set to impact the tech industry significantly. The U.S. government aims to encourage domestic manufacturing, but the unpredictability of trade policies complicates planning for businesses. As companies navigate these challenges, they must adopt flexible strategies that account for ongoing volatility in the supply chain and procurement processes, ensuring they remain responsive to changing market conditions. Four things to know today 00:00 Copy, Paste, Compromise? Why AI Code Suggestions Could Lead to Big Security Problems04:45 Altera Is Out, $8.75B Is In—But Intel’s Chip Future Is Still in Question06:46 Got 47 Days? Why Your SSL Certificates Just Got a Whole Lot Needier08:14 One More Time with Feeling: Tech Tariffs Are Back, and the Forecast Is Still Chaos  Supported by:  https://cometbackup.com/?utm_source=mspradio&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=sponsorship https://getflexpoint.com/msp-radio/   Join Dave April 22nd to learn about Marketing in the AI Era.  Signup here:  https://hubs.la/Q03dwWqg0  💼 All Our SponsorsSupport the vendors who support the show:👉 https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ 🚀 Join Business of Tech PlusGet exclusive access to investigative reports, vendor analysis, leadership briefings, and more.👉 https://businessof.tech/plus 🎧 Subscribe to the Business of TechWant the show on your favorite podcast app or prefer the written versions of each story?📲 https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe 📰 Story Links & SourcesLooking for the links from today’s stories?Every episode script — with full source links — is posted at:🌐 https://www.businessof.tech 🎙 Want to Be a Guest?Pitch your story or appear on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights:💬 https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech 🔗 Follow Business of Tech LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradioBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.techInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradioTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The podcast discusses the significant impact of recent tariff policies on the technology sector and small businesses in the U.S. Consumer sentiment has sharply declined, with a notable 11% drop reported in April, driven by fears of rising inflation and economic uncertainty. The Trump administration's decision to exempt certain electronics from new tariffs has not alleviated concerns, as many CIOs are pausing IT projects due to budget disruptions. This uncertainty is expected to trickle down to mid-market IT and small to medium-sized businesses (SMBs), leading to deferred spending and hiring freezes.Small businesses are particularly feeling the strain, as highlighted by the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), which reported a decline in its Small Business Optimism Index. Business owners are increasingly worried about the economic climate, with many citing taxes and labor quality as primary concerns. A Reddit thread among small business owners revealed fears of significant price increases due to tariffs, with some reporting staggering import fees that could jeopardize their operations. This sentiment reflects a broader trend of panic among small businesses, which are core customers for many service providers.The podcast also touches on the intersection of politics and cybersecurity, particularly in light of recent executive orders signed by President Trump targeting former officials and a cybersecurity firm. The actions have created a chilling effect within the cybersecurity industry, with many organizations hesitant to speak out against government actions due to fears of retaliation. This situation raises concerns about the neutrality of the cybersecurity sector and the potential for political pressures to influence technology decisions.Finally, the discussion shifts to cloud spending, which has exceeded initial budgets for many CIOs. Despite the overspend, a majority of respondents in a recent survey reported net savings from cloud adoption, indicating that the value proposition remains intact. Managed service providers (MSPs) are positioned to help organizations optimize their cloud investments and manage costs effectively. The podcast emphasizes the need for providers to adapt to the changing landscape, offering strategic guidance and support to clients navigating these turbulent times. Four things to know today 00:00 Tariffs Up, Sentiment Down: Why Tech Spend May Be the Next to Stall05:22 Small Businesses Are Hurting—and MSPs Need to Help More Than Ever 09:42 Politics Meets Cybersecurity as Trump’s Orders Stir Fear and Silence12:46 CIOs Blow Past Cloud Budgets, Giving MSPs a Bigger Seat at the Table  Supported by:  https://www.huntress.com/mspradio/ https://cometbackup.com/?utm_source=mspradio&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=sponsorship  Join Dave April 22nd to learn about Marketing in the AI Era.  Signup here:  https://hubs.la/Q03dwWqg0  💼 All Our SponsorsSupport the vendors who support the show:👉 https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ 🚀 Join Business of Tech PlusGet exclusive access to investigative reports, vendor analysis, leadership briefings, and more.👉 https://businessof.tech/plus 🎧 Subscribe to the Business of TechWant the show on your favorite podcast app or prefer the written versions of each story?📲 https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe 📰 Story Links & SourcesLooking for the links from today’s stories?Every episode script — with full source links — is posted at:🌐 https://www.businessof.tech 🎙 Want to Be a Guest?Pitch your story or appear on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights:💬 https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech 🔗 Follow Business of Tech LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradioBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.techInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradioTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

David Lincoln from Rosendin discusses the development of an innovative autonomous robot designed for solar panel installations. The robot, which features a robotic arm mounted on a track-mounted chassis, was conceived to address the labor-intensive and physically demanding nature of installing heavy photovoltaic (PV) modules. The idea originated after Lincoln observed robotic arms in a PV module manufacturing facility, leading to a collaboration with an R&D team to create a prototype that could operate autonomously, significantly reducing the need for human labor while enhancing safety and efficiency on solar farms.The autonomous robot operates alongside two carriers that transport the solar panels, allowing for a streamlined installation process. As one carrier is emptied, the robot can switch to the other, ensuring a continuous workflow. This system not only reduces the number of workers needed on-site—from a typical crew of four to just two—but also minimizes the physical strain on workers who would otherwise have to lift and transport heavy modules. The robot's design incorporates safety features such as emergency stop buttons and sensors to prevent accidents, making it a valuable addition to the workforce rather than a replacement.Lincoln emphasizes that the goal of the robot is to complement human workers rather than replace them. The technology allows for a more efficient installation process, which can lead to significant time and cost savings on large-scale solar projects. The robots are designed to operate in remote locations, where labor can be scarce, and their autonomous capabilities help mitigate logistical challenges associated with transporting workers to and from job sites.Looking ahead, Lincoln envisions further applications for the technology, including potential partnerships with major manufacturers to mass-produce the robots for broader use in the industry. The team is also exploring additional functionalities, such as integrating ground-penetrating radar or mowing capabilities into the carriers. By continuously refining the technology and seeking new opportunities, Rosendin aims to remain at the forefront of innovation in the renewable energy sector.  💼 All Our SponsorsSupport the vendors who support the show:👉 https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ 🚀 Join Business of Tech PlusGet exclusive access to investigative reports, vendor analysis, leadership briefings, and more.👉 https://businessof.tech/plus 🎧 Subscribe to the Business of TechWant the show on your favorite podcast app or prefer the written versions of each story?📲 https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe 📰 Story Links & SourcesLooking for the links from today’s stories?Every episode script — with full source links — is posted at:🌐 https://www.businessof.tech 🎙 Want to Be a Guest?Pitch your story or appear on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights:💬 https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech 🔗 Follow Business of Tech LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradioBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.techInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradioTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The latest market turbulence has raised concerns about the impact of tariffs on business deals and the potential for artificial intelligence (AI) to serve as a lifeline for companies striving to do more with less. With tariffs on Chinese goods recently increased to 125% and a 90-day pause on other tariffs, the uncertainty in the market is palpable. Industry experts Jay McCall and Karl Palachuk discuss the implications of these changes, emphasizing the need for IT solution providers to adapt their strategies and focus on client relationships during these challenging times.Karl highlights the importance of becoming a trusted advisor to clients, especially during economic downturns. He encourages providers to engage in regular conversations with their clients to understand their needs and concerns. This proactive approach can help businesses navigate the current landscape, as some clients may be looking to invest in technology to gain a competitive edge when the market stabilizes. Jay echoes this sentiment, drawing parallels to past economic crises and noting that while some projects may be delayed or canceled, opportunities for digital transformation, particularly in AI, may arise.The discussion also touches on the risks associated with standardization in pricing and hardware delivery. As supply chain issues become more pronounced, the reliance on standardized hardware may become a liability for managed service providers (MSPs). Instead, the experts suggest focusing on the outcomes and results that clients desire, rather than the specific systems used to achieve those results. This shift in perspective could allow MSPs to remain competitive and relevant in a rapidly changing environment.Finally, the conversation emphasizes the need for flexibility in business models as uncertainty looms. While clients may seek shorter contracts or more adaptable pricing structures, providers are cautioned against lowering prices to compete. Instead, maintaining the value of services and fostering strong client relationships will be crucial for MSPs to weather the storm and emerge stronger when the economy rebounds.  💼 All Our SponsorsSupport the vendors who support the show:👉 https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ 🚀 Join Business of Tech PlusGet exclusive access to investigative reports, vendor analysis, leadership briefings, and more.👉 https://businessof.tech/plus 🎧 Subscribe to the Business of TechWant the show on your favorite podcast app or prefer the written versions of each story?📲 https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe 📰 Story Links & SourcesLooking for the links from today’s stories?Every episode script — with full source links — is posted at:🌐 https://www.businessof.tech 🎙 Want to Be a Guest?Pitch your story or appear on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights:💬 https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech 🔗 Follow Business of Tech LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradioBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.techInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradioTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Microsoft is rolling out a preview of its new feature called Recall, which captures screenshots of user activity on CoPilot Plus PCs. This feature, initially intended for launch alongside CoPilot Plus PCs, faced delays due to security concerns. Users must opt-in to save snapshots with Recall and can pause the feature at any time. This development raises important questions about data ownership and how organizations should approach the use of scraped data, especially as automated bots increasingly threaten the sustainability of open-source projects like Wikimedia.The podcast also discusses the impact of tariffs on IT budget planning, with IDC lowering its projected growth in global IT spending for 2025 from 10% to 5%. Many companies are experiencing uncertainty in their budgets, leading to spending cutbacks. CIOs are advised to prepare for various potential tariff scenarios, particularly as technology prices for devices are expected to be affected. The ongoing cuts in federal jobs are also impacting Managed Service Providers (MSPs), prompting them to diversify their client bases and adapt to changes in the federal market.In the cybersecurity realm, CyberFox has announced a strategic integration with Synchro to enhance security and operational efficiency for MSPs. This partnership aims to simplify security tools for providers, allowing them to increase security without sacrificing efficiency or budget. Additionally, Cohesity has expanded its partnership with Google Cloud to improve cyber resilience and data insights for organizations facing cyber threats, emphasizing that cybersecurity is becoming an essential infrastructure rather than an add-on.The episode concludes with insights from the 2025 AI Index, highlighting advancements in AI model efficiency and a notable increase in AI incidents. The report indicates a growing divide in AI optimism between the U.S. and China, with significant investment in AI continuing in the U.S. The discussion also touches on the importance of backward compatibility in Wi-Fi technology, illustrating how innovation and stability are crucial for modern IT services. The podcast encourages listeners to consider how to implement guardrails for customers while leveraging stability as a competitive differentiator. Four things to know today 00:00 Web Bots Are Taking Your Data—And Now Recall Wants to Watch Too03:23 IDC Slashes IT Growth Forecast Over Tariffs While MSPs Grapple with Federal Market Contraction06:34 Security’s Getting Easier to Buy—But Harder to Sell as Strategy08:49 AI Innovation and Wi-Fi Stability: The Twin Pillars of Modern IT Strategy Supported by:  https://syncromsp.com/  Join Dave April 22nd to learn about Marketing in the AI Era.  Signup here:  https://hubs.la/Q03dwWqg0  💼 All Our SponsorsSupport the vendors who support the show:👉 https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ 🚀 Join Business of Tech PlusGet exclusive access to investigative reports, vendor analysis, leadership briefings, and more.👉 https://businessof.tech/plus 🎧 Subscribe to the Business of TechWant the show on your favorite podcast app or prefer the written versions of each story?📲 https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe 📰 Story Links & SourcesLooking for the links from today’s stories?Every episode script — with full source links — is posted at:🌐 https://www.businessof.tech 🎙 Want to Be a Guest?Pitch your story or appear on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights:💬 https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech 🔗 Follow Business of Tech LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradioBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.techInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradioTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Tariff whiplash has led to a significant surge in hardware shipments, particularly in the PC market, as manufacturers rush to deliver products ahead of impending tariffs. In the first quarter of 2025, PC shipments in the United States increased by 9.4%, with notable growth in both notebook and desktop shipments. Companies like Lenovo and HP have ramped up their shipments to the U.S. in anticipation of cost hikes, while a recent Canalys poll indicates that many small and mid-sized business customers are unaware of the end of support for Windows 10, which could lead to higher costs when they refresh their PC fleets. The potential reimposition of tariffs could significantly impact consumer demand, forcing prioritization of essential spending.Amidst these developments, Google has introduced Google Workspace Flows, a tool designed to automate complex processes using artificial intelligence. This feature allows users to create custom workflows without coding, enhancing productivity. Additionally, Anthropic has launched a premium tier for its AI service, Claude, aimed at power users who require higher usage limits. Dell has also announced updates to its storage and server lines to better support AI workloads, indicating a broader trend of integrating AI into business operations.Cybersecurity remains a critical concern, with a report from WatchGuard Technologies highlighting a 94% increase in network malware detections. This surge reflects the growing sophistication of cybercriminals, who are shifting from volume-based attacks to more precise and targeted strategies. The report emphasizes the need for proactive cybersecurity measures as traditional defenses are increasingly challenged by evolving tactics. Providers must adapt their responses to this new landscape, focusing on navigating complexity for their customers.The podcast also discusses the evolving business models of partners in the IT sector, with a significant shift towards services rather than hardware sales. A Canalys survey indicates that hardware will only account for 13% of profitability by 2025, as partners increasingly seek profit-rich services like consulting and managed services. This evolution suggests that the future of IT sales will hinge on wrapping hardware with services, lifecycle management, and AI integration, rather than solely reselling products. The current surge in hardware sales is seen as a reaction to policy uncertainty, with long-term strategies needing to pivot towards recurring services and consultative models. Three things to know today 00:00 Tariff Whiplash Drives Hardware Surge, But Canalys Finds Partners Pivoting to Services for Long-Term Growth07:07 AI Means Business Now—Google Automates Workflows, Anthropic Boosts Power Users, and Dell Powers It All09:59 Hackers Get Smarter, Not Louder: WatchGuard Warns of a Shift from Malware Volume to Malware Precision  Supported by:  https://www.huntress.com/mspradio/https://cometbackup.com/?utm_source=mspradio&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=sponsorship  Join Dave April 22nd to learn about Marketing in the AI Era.  Signup here:  https://hubs.la/Q03dwWqg0  💼 All Our SponsorsSupport the vendors who support the show:👉 https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ 🚀 Join Business of Tech PlusGet exclusive access to investigative reports, vendor analysis, leadership briefings, and more.👉 https://businessof.tech/plus 🎧 Subscribe to the Business of TechWant the show on your favorite podcast app or prefer the written versions of each story?📲 https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe 📰 Story Links & SourcesLooking for the links from today’s stories?Every episode script — with full source links — is posted at:🌐 https://www.businessof.tech 🎙 Want to Be a Guest?Pitch your story or appear on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights:💬 https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech 🔗 Follow Business of Tech LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradioBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.techInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradioTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Experts in artificial intelligence (AI) express optimism about its potential, yet public sentiment reveals a significant trust gap, with many feeling anxious and lacking control over AI's role in their lives. A recent survey indicates that while 79% of Generation Z engages with AI tools, only 27% are hopeful about their benefits. This disconnect is further emphasized by Shopify's new hiring policy, which requires employees to justify why they cannot use AI for their tasks before seeking additional resources. This shift reflects a broader trend in the tech industry, where AI adoption is becoming a mandate, despite public skepticism.Cisco's 2025 Data Privacy Benchmark Study highlights the growing complexity of privacy issues as organizations increasingly rely on AI. The study shows that 86% of privacy professionals support legislation that enhances privacy, and 96% believe that investments in privacy yield positive returns. However, concerns about the risks associated with generative AI persist, emphasizing the need for organizations to align their data governance and AI initiatives to build consumer trust. This integration of privacy into AI strategies is crucial for long-term customer relationships.A recent incident involving a journalist's accidental access to a sensitive military group chat underscores the vulnerabilities of consumer technology in government operations. The error was attributed to a Siri feature that mistakenly updated contact information, leading to a significant breach of operational trust. This incident serves as a reminder of the potential consequences when AI assistance is not properly managed, highlighting the importance of maintaining security protocols in sensitive environments.In the realm of cloud technology, Nerdio has launched an updated management platform aimed at enhancing the efficiency of Microsoft Cloud services. The new version introduces advanced tools for planning, migration, and cost optimization, addressing the growing demand for better management capabilities. Meanwhile, Enable has enhanced its platform to improve cyber resiliency for Microsoft Cloud users, incorporating machine learning to monitor user behavior and detect anomalies. These developments reflect a broader trend of integrating advanced technologies to optimize cloud management and security, emphasizing the need for ongoing innovation in the industry. Four things to know today 00:00 Experts Love AI, the Public Isn’t So Sure—and Shopify’s Making It Mandatory04:35 Privacy Pays Off—But AI Is Raising the Stakes, Says Cisco’s Global Report06:26 Siri-Driven Contact Update Blamed for Journalist's Accidental Access to Military Group Chat07:42 Two Conferences, One Goal: Making Microsoft Cloud Easier, Cheaper, and Safer  Supported by:  https://getnerdio.com/nerdio-manager-for-msp/ Join Dave April 22nd to learn about Marketing in the AI Era.  Signup here:  https://hubs.la/Q03dwWqg0  💼 All Our SponsorsSupport the vendors who support the show:👉 https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ 🚀 Join Business of Tech PlusGet exclusive access to investigative reports, vendor analysis, leadership briefings, and more.👉 https://businessof.tech/plus 🎧 Subscribe to the Business of TechWant the show on your favorite podcast app or prefer the written versions of each story?📲 https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe 📰 Story Links & SourcesLooking for the links from today’s stories?Every episode script — with full source links — is posted at:🌐 https://www.businessof.tech 🎙 Want to Be a Guest?Pitch your story or appear on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights:💬 https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech 🔗 Follow Business of Tech LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradioBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.techInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradioTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Kaseya's 2025 Global MSP Benchmark Report reveals that cybersecurity has emerged as a crucial revenue driver for managed service providers (MSPs), with 67% of respondents identifying it as one of their fastest-growing revenue categories. The report highlights that 76% of MSPs recognize their clients' primary concern is security, emphasizing the need for integrating cybersecurity into service offerings. Additionally, operational efficiency is paramount, with 95% of MSPs acknowledging the necessity of connecting their tools for smoother operations. The report also notes a rise in co-managed IT services, with 61% of executives reporting year-over-year revenue growth in this area.The ongoing legal battle between Apple and the UK Home Office over encryption access has taken a significant turn, as the Investigatory Powers Tribunal has denied the government's request for complete secrecy. This ruling allows for public disclosure of the case, which stems from a technical capability notice requiring Apple to provide backdoor access to encrypted data for UK law enforcement. The tribunal's decision underscores the importance of transparency in legal proceedings, particularly concerning national security and private sector data protection practices.In the realm of artificial intelligence, the Trump administration has issued new guidance for AI use and acquisition in government, replacing previous directives from the Biden administration. This guidance includes a 200-day deadline for creating a web-based repository of AI procurement tools and emphasizes risk management practices for high-impact AI use cases. Analysts have raised concerns about the implementation of these directives, particularly regarding the commitment of the Department of Government Efficiency to adhere to the established framework.Meta has launched its latest AI models, Llama 4, which enhance its AI Assistant across various platforms, while Google has introduced Gemini 2.5 Pro, its most advanced AI model to date. Microsoft has also updated its AI assistant, CoPilot, with new features that enhance personalization and task management capabilities. Meanwhile, companies like Zoom, Enable, and DNSFilter are making strategic moves to integrate AI into their services, reflecting the growing trend of AI adoption in the tech industry. Framework has temporarily suspended sales of certain laptop models in the U.S. due to new tariffs, highlighting the impact of global trade policies on consumer electronics. Four things to know today 00:00 Kaseya's MSP Report: Cybersecurity Growth, M&A Plans, and the Fight to Keep Clients03:33 Apple Encryption Fight Goes Public While New AI Guidelines Roll Out in Government 06:10 Meta Debuts Llama 4, Google Launches Gemini 2.5 Pro, and Microsoft Updates Copilot – What IT Needs to Know08:55 Framework Pauses Laptop Sales Due to Tariffs While Zoom, N-able, DNSFilter, and SentinelOne Make Strategic Plays  Supported by:  https://cometbackup.com/?utm_source=mspradio&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=sponsorship https://www.huntress.com/mspradio/  Join Dave April 22nd to learn about Marketing in the AI Era.  Signup here:  https://hubs.la/Q03dwWqg0  💼 All Our SponsorsSupport the vendors who support the show:👉 https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ 🚀 Join Business of Tech PlusGet exclusive access to investigative reports, vendor analysis, leadership briefings, and more.👉 https://businessof.tech/plus 🎧 Subscribe to the Business of TechWant the show on your favorite podcast app or prefer the written versions of each story?📲 https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe 📰 Story Links & SourcesLooking for the links from today’s stories?Every episode script — with full source links — is posted at:🌐 https://www.businessof.tech 🎙 Want to Be a Guest?Pitch your story or appear on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights:💬 https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech 🔗 Follow Business of Tech LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradioBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.techInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradioTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Tariffs imposed by the Trump administration have ignited a trade war, leading to significant economic repercussions for small businesses and the tech sector. The new tariffs, described as potentially the largest since World War I, have raised concerns about a looming recession, with estimates suggesting a 60% risk of economic downturn this year. The stock market reacted negatively, losing approximately $6 trillion in just two days following the announcement. Business leaders, including Restoration Hardware's CEO, have expressed shock at the immediate impact on their companies, with many small businesses facing funding freezes and staffing cuts.As small businesses grapple with the fallout from these tariffs, they are experiencing a surge in customer cancellations and increased financial vulnerability. The National Federation of Independent Businesses reports a decline in optimism among small business owners, who are now accumulating credit card debt and facing challenges in adjusting their supply chains. The Small Business Administration's decision to cut its workforce by over 40% raises further concerns about the support available for struggling enterprises. Meanwhile, the European Union is preparing to respond to the tariffs, potentially affecting major U.S. tech companies.The tech sector is also feeling the strain, with the International Data Corporation warning that U.S. tariffs could halve global IT spending over the next six months. Originally forecasting a 10% growth in IT spending, IDC has revised its expectations downward to 5%. The tariffs are expected to raise technology prices and disrupt supply chains, leading to increased costs for consumers. For instance, the price of the iPhone 16 Pro could rise significantly due to the new tariffs on Chinese goods, forcing companies like Apple to adjust their pricing strategies.Despite a solid jobs report indicating economic growth, the tech sector has seen a decline in job numbers, particularly in tech services and telecommunications. Microsoft has paused data center projects due to oversupply and is reassessing its investments in AI infrastructure. This cautious approach reflects broader concerns about the profitability of AI investments amid competition from lower-cost alternatives. As businesses navigate this uncertain landscape, the need for strategic adjustments in IT spending and supply chain management becomes increasingly critical for both small businesses and tech providers. Four things to know today 00:00 Tariffs Shake Small Businesses: Brace for Shifting Client Budgets and IT Spending Cuts05:36 IT Prices on the Rise – Adapting to the New Reality09:25 Solid Jobs Report Masks Tech Sector Woes: Staffing Challenges Loom Amid Economic Growth11:44 Microsoft’s Data Center Pause: AI Investments Getting a Reality Check?  Supported by:  https://getflexpoint.com/msp-radio/https://www.huntress.com/mspradio/  Join Dave April 22nd to learn about Marketing in the AI Era.  Signup here:  https://hubs.la/Q03dwWqg0Four things to know today  💼 All Our SponsorsSupport the vendors who support the show:👉 https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ 🚀 Join Business of Tech PlusGet exclusive access to investigative reports, vendor analysis, leadership briefings, and more.👉 https://businessof.tech/plus 🎧 Subscribe to the Business of TechWant the show on your favorite podcast app or prefer the written versions of each story?📲 https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe 📰 Story Links & SourcesLooking for the links from today’s stories?Every episode script — with full source links — is posted at:🌐 https://www.businessof.tech 🎙 Want to Be a Guest?Pitch your story or appear on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights:💬 https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech 🔗 Follow Business of Tech LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradioBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.techInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradioTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Hiren Hasmukh, CEO of Teqtivity, discusses the evolution of his company from its origins as TeQube, a smart locker solution, to a comprehensive IT asset management (ITAM) provider. The initial focus was on helping engineers access devices for app development without the hassle of traditional IT processes. As the company grew, it pivoted towards software solutions that enable organizations to manage their entire IT fleet, including laptops, desktops, and mobile devices, while ensuring compliance and cost savings.Teqtivity's ITAM solution is designed to cater to a wide range of clients, from startups to large enterprises, allowing them to track the lifecycle of their assets from procurement to end-of-life. The company differentiates itself in a mature market through a unique pricing model that charges based on active users rather than the number of assets managed. This approach, combined with customizable software tailored to each client's specific needs, positions Teqtivity as a flexible and user-friendly option in the ITAM landscape.Hasmukh also reflects on a significant data breach that impacted one of their customers, emphasizing the lessons learned regarding security posture and the importance of ongoing training and testing. Following the incident, Teqtivity implemented more rigorous security measures, including regular penetration testing and the integration of advanced security tools like CrowdStrike to protect their infrastructure and customer data.Looking to the future, Hasmukh shares insights on the role of artificial intelligence in IT asset management, suggesting that AI will serve as an extension of IT teams rather than a replacement. By automating routine tasks, AI can free up IT professionals to focus on more critical security issues. Teqtivity aims to incorporate AI into its roadmap, enhancing its offerings and helping clients achieve greater organizational efficiency and accuracy in asset management.  💼 All Our SponsorsSupport the vendors who support the show:👉 https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ 🚀 Join Business of Tech PlusGet exclusive access to investigative reports, vendor analysis, leadership briefings, and more.👉 https://businessof.tech/plus 🎧 Subscribe to the Business of TechWant the show on your favorite podcast app or prefer the written versions of each story?📲 https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe 📰 Story Links & SourcesLooking for the links from today’s stories?Every episode script — with full source links — is posted at:🌐 https://www.businessof.tech 🎙 Want to Be a Guest?Pitch your story or appear on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights:💬 https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech 🔗 Follow Business of Tech LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradioBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.techInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradioTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.