Dear Techies,
In this week’s newsletter, we’re discussing Microsoft’s exciting breakthrough in Quantum computing and what it could mean for the future of AI. We’re also revealing how to create tasks automatically in Planner whenever colleagues message you in Microsoft Teams. Head down for the good stuff!👇
📊 Your opinion matters!
Which sections were helpful or interesting? Let us know by participating in the poll at the end!
✉️ THIS WEEK’S TOP STORIES
🚀 AI’s Quantum Leap: Microsoft & Quantinuum Unveil Exciting Breakthrough
In a major leap forward for quantum computing, Microsoft and Quantinuum have unveiled a remarkable milestone, showcasing the most reliable logical qubits to date.
With Microsoft's pioneering qubit-virtualization system and advanced error diagnostics and correction, the collaboration conducted over 14,000 individual experiments flawlessly.
What are Qubits?
Qubits, short for quantum bits, are the fundamental units of quantum information in quantum computing. Unlike classical bits, which can exist in one of two states (0 or 1), qubits can exist in a superposition of both states simultaneously.
This achievement marks a significant advancement, propelling quantum computing beyond the current intermediate-scale quantum (NISQ) level, into Level 2 Resilient quantum computing.
The implications are profound, offering a platform poised to revolutionize research and innovation across various industries, including AI.
Quantum computing has the potential to accelerate AI algorithms, enabling more complex computations. This could lead to breakthroughs in various areas such as natural language processing and image recognition.
By leveraging quantum computing, AI may be a step closer to achieving human-like performance and functionality.
📈 Cloud Software Group Invests $1.65 Billion in Microsoft
Cloud Software Group Inc. and Microsoft have announced an extensive eight-year partnership to strengthen their collaboration. As part of the deal, Cloud Software Group will invest $1.65 billion in Microsoft's cloud infrastructure and AI capabilities.
The alliance will make Citrix the preferred Microsoft Global Azure Partner solution for Enterprise Desktop as a Service. They will provide tailored solutions, guidance, and support to speed up customers' cloud journeys, using Microsoft Azure as Citrix's primary cloud solution.
What is Citrix?
Citrix provides software solutions for virtualization, networking, and cloud computing. Their flagship product, the Citrix Virtual Apps and Desktops (formerly XenApp and XenDesktop), allows users to access applications and desktops remotely from any device.
The goal is to empower organizations with secure and innovative solutions for flexible work environments, using GitHub Copilot to boost productivity.
As part of this collaborative effort, all Cloud Software Group employees will transition to Microsoft 365.
📚 Microsoft Launches Education AI Toolkit for Schools
Microsoft has introduced the Education AI Toolkit, a PDF resource aimed at assisting education leaders in integrating AI tools into their institutions. The toolkit, tailored for K-12 and higher education, offers practical guidance and suggestions for leveraging AI.
Structured into five sections, the toolkit covers essential areas such as AI basics, planning, implementation, research, and showcasing pioneering institutions. It also introduces Microsoft's AI systems, called copilots, which aid in content creation, security, and problem-solving.
With hands-on practice opportunities and real-world examples, the Education AI Toolkit equips education leaders with the tools and knowledge they need to enhance teaching and learning experiences.
If you’re interested in getting started with AI in your educational environment, just hit the button below to access the PDF toolkit.
💡 THIS WEEK’S TOP TIP
This week, you’ll learn how to create tasks in Planner automatically from Teams chat messages. This is especially useful for Teams users who are frequently asked to complete tasks by colleagues via Teams chats.
Using PowerAutomate, this solution detects if someone has asked you to complete a task by looking for keywords in the message. If those keywords are detected, a new task is created in Planner.
Creating automatic tasks in Microsoft Teams requires three main steps, with flow creation being the most extensive. However, we’ll guide you through the process in the video.
Create a Plan in Planner.
Add Planner to Microsoft Teams.
Create a Flow in PowerAutomate.
Watch the full video:
🌟 THIS WEEK’S TECH DEALS
Microsoft Surface Pro 9 Rugged Case
13 inch heavy duty shockproof case for Microsoft Surface Pro 9 with rotatable handle.
$12.49 (usually $24.99)
Wireless Headset
Wireless Bluetooth headset with 500mAh charging case and 72 hours talking time.
$31.38 (usually $59.99)
Laptop Screen Extender
FHD IPS laptop screen extender (2 screens) with 90° Foldable Stand/Dual Speakers, HDMI/USB-A/Type-C Plug and Play for 13”-17” laptops.
$219.99 (usually $319.99)
🪲 THIS WEEK’S BOTHERSOME BUGS
We have heard reports this week that the “Microsoft Query” option has disappeared from the “Get Data” menu in Excel for Windows users. This may be part of an update, but some users want to know how to find the Query menu.
To use Microsoft Query, please follow these steps:
In Excel, click “File” at the top.
Head down to “Options” or “More” > “Options.”
In Options, click “Data” in the left menu.
Check the box next to “From Microsoft Query (Legacy).”
Click “OK” to save changes.
You can now use Microsoft Query by heading to “Data” > “Get Data” > “Legacy Wizards.”
✅ WRAPPING UP!
Your Feedback
That’s all for this newsletter.
Thanks for reading and see you soon! 👋