Costco vs. Amazon | Microsoft exec emails accessed by Russian hackers

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This week on the GeekWire Podcast, we consider Microsoft's latest AI product, the $20/month Copilot Pro, compare it to the likes of ChatGPT Plus, Claude Pro and Otter.ai — and realize in the process that one of us is already paying way too much for AI assistants on a monthly basis.

  • Plus, a deep dive on Zulily bolsters a hypothesis about the motives of the private equity firm that acquired and later shut down the online retailer.

  • And we compare, contrast, and appreciate the very different approaches taken by Costco and Amazon for authenticating customers at store entrances and check-out.
  • Above, an AI-generated image created using Microsoft Copilot and Designer, for illustration purposes only. 
  • ​​Read more and listen here, and subscribe to GeekWire in Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you listen.

Microsoft revealed Friday that a Russian state-sponsored actor accessed executive email accounts. The group is associated with the 2020 SolarWinds attack. Microsoft said it’s working with law enforcement. Read more

A new pilot project in Washington state is adding cameras to high school sports, with a twist. Referees are testing the use of body cameras in an effort to address unruly behavior, a high volume of ejections, and concerns over the safety. Read more

A tax provision that changes how R&D costs are deducted is hurting the profits of venture-backed startups and tech giants. Is your company affected? We’d like to hear from you — email us at tips@geekwire.com.

Connect with leaders through a GeekWire event: Award ceremonies. Rooftop BBQs. Half-day Summits. And custom VIP events. GeekWire’s slate of 2024 events will help your company connect with key business leaders, drive sales, develop thought leadership and boost brand recognition. Learn more about sponsoring one of the GeekWire events by contacting our team at events@geekwire.com.

Thanks for subscribing to the GeekWire newsletter, and have a great weekend. — GeekWire managing editor Taylor Soper, taylor@geekwire.com; and GeekWire co-founder Todd Bishop, todd@geekwire.com.
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