News in the Channel - issue #26

BETT 2025

AI impact AI permeated every corner of the two exhibition halls and were on the lips of almost all guest speakers, including Secretary for Education and Women and Equalities, Bridget Phillipson MP, and celebrities like Stephen Fry. Stephen pondered redefining the skills our children need for the future world of work, while Bridget was positive that the administrative burden for teachers would be reduced by using AI and other technologies. The Education Secretary felt that AI tools were expected to decrease the time teachers spend on tasks such as marking, planning and form filling, thus allowing them to focus more on teaching and delivering change for children, thereby addressing the recruitment and retention crisis in teaching by making the profession less stressful and more fulfilling. The software companies were singing the praises of AI, offering AI lessons, AI- integrations, AI-enhancements, AI payment plans and more. The laptop brands that have brought AI-enabled PCs to the market include HP, Lenovo and ASUS. Robust and modular ASUS came with a clear message: that their robust laptops are designed with modular components to extend device longevity, and the company used the opportunity to launch its latest education- focused laptops, the BR and CR series, each series encompassing four models. The ASUS BR series and CR series are designed specifically for the needs of students from ages five to 18, educators and IT administrators and combine upgraded performance with new Intel processors, rugged durability and innovative features like Microsoft Copilot, and a design to match even the most demanding student lifestyle. BR- series convertible models (BR1204FTA and BR1104FTA) feature 360° hinges and optional stylus support, allowing seamless transitions between laptop and

tablet modes, ideal for creative projects and collaboration. Students will put any laptop through its paces, and the ASUS BR series laptops are built to withstand active classroom environments with features such as rugged rubber bumpers and spill- resistant keyboards. ASUS CR series Chromebooks are available in 180° lay-flat and 360° convertible models and are powered by the Intel® Processor N250 with a 1080p FHD front-facing webcam and a 13MP world-facing camera and TÜV-certified low blue-light displays. ASUS BR and CR Series have been tested by simulating real-world accidents and optional features include Corning® Gorilla® Glass on touchscreen models and ASUS Antimicrobial Guard technology. ASUS has put some thoughtful features into the BR and CR Series and one delight is the anti-drop captive screws, ensuring that small parts remain securely in place during repairs, preventing misplacement and simplifying maintenance.

Bridget Phillipson MP Secretary for Education and Women and Equalities Photo: Bridget Phillipson ©House of Commons

Stephen Fry

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The software companies were singing the praises of AI, offering AI lessons, AI-integrations, AI-enhancements, AI payment plans and more.

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