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Hello Code-breakers,

Last week I collaborated with BigVu.Tv (my AI video tool of choice) on a live training to share a proven process for using AI to create authentic video content that boosts engagement and sales. This is the same process I guide clients through and I recently used it create a AI-enhanced video that got 81,000 views on Linkedin.

If you missed the free live training you can still watch the “Spark Your Brand with AI Video” webinar replay.

Now, let’s jump into this week’s edition…

Amazon’s Alexa Just Got Smarter

Alexa finally taps into generative AI… but will it change how we interact with tech?

• Alexa can now handle multi-step conversations, generate responses dynamically, and integrate deeper into smart home setups.

• Amazon is betting big, offering a free version and a premium "Alexa Plus" subscription for advanced features.

"We think this is the biggest change to Alexa since it launched" – Amazon VP of Devices Read more

What this means to you: If voice AI becomes a daily habit, brands that optimize for voice search and AI-driven customer interactions will have an edge. Now’s the time to think about voice-first experiences for your business.

What to watch for: User adoption will dictate if this AI Alexa is the next big thing—or just another AI hype cycle.

Spotify Jumps Into AI Audiobooks

Spotify has partnered with ElevenLabs to generate lifelike AI narration for audiobooks, making high-quality production cheaper and more scalable.

• AI voices are trained to sound human-like, potentially revolutionizing the audiobook industry.

• This move aligns with Spotify’s push into audiobooks, challenging platforms like Audible.

"We believe AI can make storytelling more accessible" – Spotify spokesperson Read more

What this means to you: AI is lowering content creation barriers. If you have a book, course, or blog, AI narration could help repurpose your content into an audiobook without major costs.

What to watch for: The debate over AI-generated voices replacing human narrators is heating up—expect more controversy ahead.

Gen Z Trusts Influencers Over Experts

A new study shows that Gen Z trusts social media creators more than traditional experts when it comes to news, product recommendations, and even health advice.

• 64% of teens say they rely on influencers over traditional sources.

• This shift reflects changing media consumption habits and growing skepticism toward institutions.

"We’re seeing a complete redefinition of expertise" – Digital Trends analyst Read more

What this means to you: If your brand isn’t leveraging influencers, you’re missing out. Authentic creator partnerships can drive trust, engagement, and conversions.

What to watch for: As social platforms evolve, influencer credibility and regulation will become hot topics.

10 AI Video Tools That Marketers Swear By

Creative agencies are leaning on AI-powered platforms to automate editing, scriptwriting, and even generating lifelike avatars for content.

• Popular tools include Runway, Synthesia, and Pika Labs, each specializing in different aspects of AI video.

• Brands are using AI for everything from social media ads to full-scale product demos.

"AI lets us create high-quality content at a fraction of the cost" – Marketing exec Read more

What this means to you: If you’re not using AI for video marketing, you’re leaving time and money on the table. Now’s the time to experiment with AI-powered content creation.

What to watch for: As AI tools evolve, expect even more automation in video production.

Claude 3.7 Tackles Complex Problems

Anthropic’s latest AI model is built for deep thinking. Claude 3.7 Sonnet is designed to handle complex reasoning and long-context tasks, making it a strong competitor to OpenAI’s GPT-4 and Google’s Gemini models.

• The model improves on prior versions with better problem-solving capabilities.

• Early tests show it excels at summarizing lengthy documents and generating strategic insights.

"We’re pushing AI towards real-world reasoning" – Anthropic engineer Read more

What this means to you: If you use AI for research, strategy, or decision-making, Claude 3.7 could be a powerful tool. Businesses should experiment with AI models to find the best fit for their needs.

What to watch for: Expect more AI arms-race developments as companies push for smarter, more capable models.

Perplexity Launches AI-Powered Browser, Comet

AI search is evolving beyond Google… and this new tool is proof. Perplexity’s new browser, Comet, integrates AI to provide real-time insights, summaries, and context as you browse the web.

• It aims to reduce information overload by filtering the most relevant content.

• The AI-powered assistant can answer queries, compare sources, and track evolving trends.

"Comet is built to help users get straight to the insights they need" – Perplexity CEO Read more

What this means to you: AI-driven search and browsing could change how businesses do market research, trend analysis, and competitive intelligence.

What to watch for: If Comet gains traction, it could challenge Google’s dominance in search.

Until next time.

G. Kofi Annan

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