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  • SharePoint Server 2016 and 2019 End of Support: Security and Compliance Risks for Enterprises

    SharePoint Server 2016 and 2019 End of Support: Security and Compliance Risks for Enterprises

    SharePoint Server 2016 and 2019 End of Support: What Enterprises Must Know

    Microsoft has announced that SharePoint Server 2016 and 2019 will reach their end of extended support on July 14, 2026. After this date, these platforms will no longer receive security updates, patches, or technical support from Microsoft. This marks a critical juncture for enterprises that rely on these systems for document management, collaboration, and data governance. The absence of updates exposes organizations to escalating security vulnerabilities and compliance challenges, making proactive migration essential.

    Understanding the Support Timeline

    SharePoint Server 2016 reached end of mainstream support on July 13, 2021, while SharePoint Server 2019 followed on January 9, 2024. The upcoming end of extended support on July 14, 2026, means that all forms of standard support will cease. Systems will continue to function, but they will operate without protection against newly discovered vulnerabilities. While some organizations may explore custom support agreements or compensating controls, these measures are often limited and do not offer the same security assurance as a fully supported platform.

    Security Risks Escalate After Support Ends

    Unsupported SharePoint environments become prime targets for cybercriminals who actively scan for outdated systems with known, unpatched vulnerabilities. These weaknesses can lead to unauthorized access, privilege escalation, and data exfiltration. Once attackers gain a foothold, they can move laterally across the network, especially where legacy authentication or identity services are in use. Internal risks also increase as monitoring tools lose compatibility and security policies become outdated, creating a compounding effect that may go unnoticed until a breach occurs.

    Compliance and Regulatory Pressure

    Organizations operating under regulations such as HIPAA, GDPR, SOX, or FINRA must ensure their systems meet current security expectations. Unsupported software rarely satisfies these requirements. Auditors will scrutinize whether systems receive ongoing updates and vendor support, and a platform past its support window can trigger audit findings, increased scrutiny, or even failed audits. This can result in financial penalties, reputational damage, and forced remediation timelines, especially in heavily regulated sectors.

    Operational Strain on IT Teams

    Maintaining unsupported SharePoint versions places a heavy burden on internal IT departments. Without vendor patches, teams must manually create workarounds, monitor emerging threats independently, and troubleshoot issues without official support channels. This increases workload, reduces efficiency, and diverts resources from strategic initiatives. Downtime risks also rise, as resolving failures takes longer without vendor-backed fixes or documentation updates, ultimately affecting productivity across departments that depend on SharePoint.

    Why Delaying Action Is Risky

    Budget constraints or perceived migration challenges often lead organizations to postpone upgrades. However, delay widens the gap between current technology and security requirements. Over time, compatibility problems increase as third-party tools fail and integrations become more difficult. Data integrity issues may arise with backups and indexing. The longer an organization waits, the more complex and costly the eventual migration becomes.

    Modern Alternatives and Migration Paths

    Enterprises have two primary paths forward: SharePoint Server Subscription Edition for those who prefer on-premises deployment, or SharePoint Online for a cloud-based solution. SharePoint Server Subscription Edition is Microsoft’s supported on-premises option, but organizations must maintain active Software Assurance to access new versions and features. Each path requires careful evaluation of data volume, customizations, workflows, and integration dependencies. A structured approach, supported by professional SharePoint migration services, helps map current systems, identify risks, and execute a controlled transition with minimal downtime.

    Leveraging Automation for Modernization

    Legacy SharePoint systems often rely on manual processes that slow operations and introduce inconsistencies. Moving to a supported platform presents an opportunity to automate workflows using tools like Power Automate. Automation replaces manual approvals, document routing, and data handling with efficient, consistent processes. It also strengthens compliance by generating consistent audit trails, logging actions, and simplifying reporting. This transforms SharePoint from a static repository into an active, operational system.

    Strategic Planning and Expert Guidance

    Successful migration goes beyond technical execution. Strategic planning defines how systems will function long term. SharePoint consulting services help organizations evaluate architecture, governance models, and security frameworks, identifying gaps before they become problems. Consultants also guide decisions on customization, connectivity, and user access structures. A clear roadmap reduces uncertainty and prevents costly missteps, ensuring that migration is treated as a strategic initiative rather than a simple upgrade.

    Ensuring Post-Migration Stability

    Post-migration stability is critical. Systems must remain secure, efficient, and aligned with evolving business needs. Ongoing managed support services provide monitoring, updates, and issue resolution, reducing internal workload and keeping systems current. These services also offer visibility into system health, allowing teams to identify trends and address issues before they impact operations. A well-supported environment prevents the cycle of falling behind again.

    User Experience and Adoption

    The benefits of migration are realized only when users embrace the new system. Training and communication are essential to ensure productivity during the transition. Employees need to learn new interfaces and features, which often bring improved usability, faster search, and enhanced collaboration. Proper education ensures that users can leverage these capabilities, leading to increased efficiency and satisfaction.

    Data Governance and Control in Modern Environments

    Upgraded SharePoint systems offer stronger governance tools, including more precise permission management, data classification, retention policies, and audit tracking. These features help reduce unauthorized access risks and support compliance requirements while maintaining operational flexibility. Organizations gain clearer visibility into data access and sharing, strengthening both security and accountability. Modern governance capabilities address challenges that older platforms struggle to manage.

    Cost Considerations Beyond Immediate Budgets

    While migration costs may seem daunting, staying on unsupported systems carries hidden costs. These include potential breach expenses, compliance penalties, downtime losses, and productivity inefficiencies. Investing in updated infrastructure mitigates these risks and opens opportunities for improved collaboration and streamlined operations. A forward-looking perspective reveals that delaying action often becomes more expensive over time.

    Preparing for the Inevitable Shift

    The end-of-support deadline is a call to action. Early action gives enterprises control over the migration process, while procrastination leaves them with limited options and increased risk. A well-planned approach enables organizations to thrive in a constantly evolving technological landscape. By viewing this change as an opportunity rather than a disruption, businesses can modernize their systems, boost efficiency, and better protect their data. Planning ahead is essential for future stability and eliminating unnecessary risks.

  • 8 Practical Tips for Discovering Valuable Telegram Channels Without the Clutter

    8 Practical Tips for Discovering Valuable Telegram Channels Without the Clutter

    Telegram can deliver a wealth of useful information, but an unchecked channel list quickly becomes noise. By combining focused search, careful selection, and simple management tools, you can keep your feed relevant and organized. Here are eight actionable strategies.

    1. Search with Specific Topics

    Telegram’s search works best with precise terms. Instead of broad keywords like “technology” or “news,” use phrases such as “Android security,” “football transfers,” or “stock market news.” This narrows results to public channels and posts that match your exact interest, and it can surface sources that a generic search would miss.

    2. Use the Posts Tab for Discovery

    Telegram’s global search now includes a dedicated Posts tab. This lets you search across posts from all public channels—even those you haven’t joined. When you find a useful post, visit the channel’s profile to learn more. This approach helps you discover high-quality sources without subscribing to every channel that appears in general results.

    3. Check Similar Channels Before Subscribing

    On any channel profile, look for the Similar Channels section. Telegram suggests channels with overlapping audiences and topics. You can also find these suggestions in the Channels section of global search. For example, a reliable tech channel may lead you to others focused on software, cybersecurity, or AI—broadening your coverage with a small, curated set of sources.

    4. Test a Channel Before Committing

    Don’t subscribe to every promising channel immediately. Give it a short trial period. Evaluate posting frequency, content quality, originality, repetition, and promotional material. A channel that posts one or two valuable updates daily is often more useful than one that floods your feed with dozens of low-value messages.

    5. Create Folders for Different Topics

    Telegram’s chat folders let you group channels by category—News, Tech, Work, Learning, Entertainment, and more. You can define rules to include or exclude specific chats, groups, channels, bots, or muted chats. This keeps unrelated content separate and gives your main chat list a cleaner, more manageable layout.

    6. Mute Channels that Don’t Need Alerts

    Useful channels don’t always require instant notifications. Telegram’s mute controls let you keep valuable sources accessible without constant interruptions. For instance, mute high-volume news channels while leaving learning channels unmuted. This way, you stay informed on your own schedule.

    7. Use AI Summaries for Long Posts

    Telegram introduced AI summaries for long channel posts in January 2026. This feature provides a concise overview of lengthy content, helping you decide quickly whether to read the full post. It’s especially useful for channels that publish detailed reports, news updates, or extended announcements.

    8. Review Your Channel List Regularly

    Just as important as discovery is cleanup. A channel that once delivered value may later become repetitive or overly promotional. Set aside time periodically to review your subscriptions and remove any that no longer serve your interests. A smaller, well-curated list is far more effective than a large, cluttered one.

    By combining these techniques—focused search, channel checks, folders, mute controls, AI summaries, and regular reviews—you can transform Telegram into a streamlined information hub where every channel has a clear purpose.

  • Beyond Interest Rates: 5 Key Drivers of Stock Market Movements

    Beyond Interest Rates: 5 Key Drivers of Stock Market Movements

    Interest rates often dominate financial headlines, but they are far from the only force influencing stock markets. Corporate earnings, inflation, commodity prices, geopolitical events, currencies, investor sentiment, and capital flows all play significant roles. Understanding these factors helps investors interpret market movements and avoid relying on a single indicator.

    1. Corporate Earnings and Profit Expectations

    Corporate earnings are one of the strongest drivers of individual stock prices. Investors constantly compare reported results with market expectations. A company can report higher profits and still see its shares fall if earnings disappoint against already-high expectations. Revenue growth, profit margins, guidance, and future earnings estimates all matter. Strong results can support valuations when investors expect continued growth, while disappointing results can put pressure on share prices. The broader market also depends on earnings across major sectors such as technology, financials, healthcare, energy, and consumer companies.

    2. Inflation and Economic Data

    Investors track consumer prices, employment, wages, manufacturing, and economic growth. These reports can change expectations about future business conditions. Higher inflation can increase companies’ costs, pressuring profit margins, while lower inflation can improve purchasing power and reduce pressure on operating costs. Economic growth also matters: strong growth supports corporate revenue and consumer spending, while weak growth raises concerns about future earnings. Markets react quickly to major economic releases.

    3. Commodity Prices and Energy Costs

    Oil, natural gas, metals, and agricultural commodities can influence markets worldwide. Oil is particularly important as energy affects transportation and manufacturing costs. Higher prices can squeeze margins across industries such as airlines, chemicals, logistics, and manufacturing. Energy producers may experience a different earnings impact. Commodity movements also affect inflation expectations, creating another channel for market volatility. Recent oil price movements above USD 108 per barrel amid geopolitical tensions have put global equities under pressure.

    4. Geopolitical Events and Government Policies

    Wars, trade restrictions, elections, sanctions, and diplomatic disputes can quickly change investor expectations. Markets often react before the economic consequences become clear. Investors may reduce exposure to sectors facing direct risks. Trade policies can affect companies operating across borders—tariffs may increase costs or reduce demand for exported products. Geopolitical risks can also disrupt energy supplies and shipping routes, spreading across multiple economies. Energy prices and trade policies are extremely important in today’s situation.

    5. Investor Sentiment, Currency, and Market Flows

    Markets are influenced by how investors allocate capital. Foreign investment flows can affect stock prices, particularly in emerging markets, while domestic institutional flows can provide substantial buying or selling pressure. Currency movements matter for companies with international revenues or costs—a stronger local currency can reduce overseas earnings after conversion. Investor sentiment adds another layer: fear can accelerate selling, while optimism can increase demand for riskier assets. Market positioning can sometimes amplify an otherwise modest news event, explaining why similar announcements can produce different reactions.

    Why a Wider Market View Matters

    Interest rates are important, but they rarely explain every market move. Corporate earnings show whether businesses are generating profits. Economic data provides clues about demand and growth, while commodity prices reveal changing cost pressures. Geopolitical events can alter trade and supply chains. Currency movements and investor flows influence liquidity and valuations, and sentiment can magnify these underlying forces. By watching several indicators, investors gain better context—since no single market signal explains every rise or decline.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What factors move the stock market besides interest rates?

    Corporate earnings, inflation, economic growth, commodity prices, currencies, geopolitical developments, investor sentiment, and capital flows can all influence stock markets. These factors often interact, making market movements more complex than a single interest-rate decision.

    How do corporate earnings affect stock prices?

    Earnings provide information about a company’s financial performance. Investors compare reported results with expectations. Strong revenue, profits, margins, and guidance can support valuations, while disappointing results can put pressure on share prices.

    Does inflation affect the stock market?

    Yes. Inflation can increase business costs and reduce consumer purchasing power. It can also influence expectations for monetary policy, affecting company earnings, bond yields, and investor valuations.

    Why do oil prices affect stocks?

    Oil is an important input for transportation, manufacturing, and several other industries. Rising prices can increase operating costs, while energy companies may see higher revenue from increased commodity prices.

    How do geopolitical events affect stock markets?

    Wars, sanctions, trade restrictions, and supply disruptions can change investor expectations. They affect energy prices, shipping costs, currencies, and specific industries. Markets can react before the full economic impact becomes visible.

    Disclaimer: This article is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice. Readers should conduct their own research before making any investment decisions.

  • 10 Hidden Smartphone Features That Will Transform Your Daily Use

    10 Hidden Smartphone Features That Will Transform Your Daily Use

    Your smartphone is capable of far more than making calls and running apps. Many powerful tools remain hidden in menus and settings, waiting to be discovered. Both Apple and Google have added practical features that can boost productivity, enhance privacy, extend battery life, and simplify everyday tasks. The best part? You may already own a phone with these features—you just need to know where to find them. Here are several hidden smartphone features worth trying.

    Circle to Search: Find Anything on Your Screen

    Android users can search for items directly from their screen using Google’s Circle to Search. Simply press and hold the navigation handle or Home button, then circle, highlight, or tap something displayed on your screen. Google will search the selected text, image, or object, and you can even translate content without leaving the current app. This is especially useful while shopping or browsing social media—identify products without manually typing their names. The feature is available on selected Android devices, including Pixel 6 models.

    Lock or Hide Private Apps

    Your phone may contain apps you’d rather keep private. iPhones offer built-in options to lock or hide supported apps. Press and hold an app icon on the Home Screen, then choose the option requiring Face ID, Touch ID, or your passcode. You can also hide eligible downloaded apps completely; they move into a dedicated Hidden folder within the App Library. This helps protect banking, messaging, or personal applications, even when someone temporarily uses your unlocked phone. Android phones also offer similar privacy tools—check your device’s security settings for available options.

    Turn Search into a Quick Action Tool

    Many people use smartphone search only for finding apps, but on iPhone, Spotlight can do much more. Swipe down from the middle of the Home Screen, then type the information or action you need. Search can find contacts, messages, emails, photos, settings, and applications. On supported software, it can also trigger certain actions directly—for example, search for a setting and change it, or search for a contact and quickly start a communication. This can save several taps throughout the day.

    Use Focus Modes for Different Parts of Life

    Notifications can quickly become a distraction. Modern smartphones provide more control than simply switching on silent mode. iPhone Focus lets you create profiles for different situations—work, sleep, driving, or personal time. Each Focus can control which people and apps can notify you, and you can automate Focus modes around specific schedules or locations. Android phones offer comparable tools through notification and digital wellbeing settings. A customized Focus setup can reduce unnecessary interruptions while keeping important notifications from getting lost.

    Turn Your Phone into a Smart Display

    An iPhone can become a useful bedside display while charging with Apple’s StandBy feature. When the phone is positioned horizontally, it can show clocks, widgets, photos, and other information. Widgets provide quick access to calendars and reminders, and you can customize the information shown according to your routine. This feature is especially handy beside a bed or workspace, giving an older charging habit a more useful purpose.

    Check Battery Insights Before Blaming the Battery

    Battery problems aren’t always caused by an aging battery—background activity can sometimes explain unusually high power consumption. Recent iPhones provide battery usage charts and activity information, showing which apps and system processes consume the most power. Apple also provides battery suggestions and Insights that can flag settings affecting battery life. Some newer iPhones support Adaptive Power, which adjusts settings when daily usage becomes unusually high. Android devices offer similar battery dashboards and adaptive battery features. Checking these reports can quickly reveal power-hungry apps.

    AI Features Are Becoming Smartphone Shortcuts

    AI is changing how people use smartphones. Newer devices can handle tasks that once required separate applications. On supported iPhones, Apple Intelligence works across several system experiences, including writing assistance, image editing, visual intelligence, and Siri AI. Android manufacturers are adding comparable AI tools to newer devices. Availability depends on the phone, software version, language, and region. Many smartphone features are already available without downloading another app. Spend a few minutes exploring your settings this month—you may discover tools that make your phone far more useful.

  • 7 Smartphone Camera Settings That Improve Night Photography

    7 Smartphone Camera Settings That Improve Night Photography

    Night photography exposes the limits of even the best smartphone cameras. Dark scenes provide much less light for the sensor, often resulting in grainy images, motion blur, weak colors, and lost detail. However, the problem isn’t always the hardware. A few key settings can make a noticeable difference after sunset. Many phones also use computational photography to improve low-light results automatically. Before blaming your device, try these seven adjustments.

    1. Turn On Night Mode

    Night mode should be your first check in low light. It captures more light over a longer period, combining multiple frames for a brighter, cleaner image. On iPhones, Night mode activates automatically in dark environments, and you can adjust the capture time. Samsung Galaxy phones offer a dedicated Night mode, while Google Pixel devices use Night Sight. Keep the phone still during the exposure to avoid ghosting and blur.

    2. Adjust Exposure

    A dark image isn’t always fixed by increasing brightness. Too much exposure can wash out signs, lights, and buildings. Tap the main subject and adjust the exposure slider if your phone allows it. Small tweaks preserve natural darkness, especially around streetlights and illuminated structures.

    3. Control ISO Sensitivity

    ISO controls the camera’s sensitivity to light. Higher ISO brightens dark scenes but adds noise. Phones usually manage ISO automatically, but some Android devices offer manual controls. In Samsung’s Pro mode, you can set ISO manually — use the lowest practical value for stationary night scenes to keep the image clean.

    4. Manage Shutter Speed

    Shutter speed determines how long the sensor collects light. A slower shutter produces brighter photos but is more sensitive to movement. Samsung Pro mode provides manual shutter controls. Use a tripod for very long exposures, and consider a timer or remote shutter to avoid camera shake.

    5. Check Focus Manually

    Autofocus can struggle in extremely dark scenes. Tap the subject manually before shooting. Some phones offer manual focus in Pro modes. Google Pixel cameras include a Far focus option for distant subjects like night skies. Focus carefully when photographing buildings, landscapes, or distant lights.

    6. Avoid Excessive Digital Zoom

    Zoom makes nighttime image quality worse by amplifying noise and softening details. Use the phone’s main camera whenever possible — it usually has the best low-light performance. Some newer phones combine frames to improve zoom clarity, but extreme zoom still reduces detail. Move closer when safe and practical.

    7. Try Pro or RAW Modes

    Advanced users can gain more control with Pro or RAW photography. Samsung Pro mode lets you adjust ISO, shutter speed, exposure, white balance, and focus. Apple ProRAW preserves more editing information on supported models, giving greater control over exposure and color. RAW files require more storage and editing, so for casual shots, computational Night mode may be easier.

    Why Night Photos Still Go Wrong

    Even perfect settings can’t overcome every limitation. Small sensors have less light available than larger dedicated cameras. Bright signs create difficult exposure differences, and moving people or vehicles introduce blur during long exposures. Clean lenses matter too — fingerprints and dust can create haze around lights. Before changing every setting, wipe the lens, then try Night mode with steady hands and modest adjustments.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Why do smartphone photos look worse at night?

    Smartphone cameras receive much less light after sunset. The camera may use higher sensitivity or longer exposures, introducing noise, motion blur, reduced detail, and inaccurate colors.

    What is the best camera setting for night photography?

    Night mode is usually the simplest starting point. It’s designed for low-light scenes and often combines multiple frames. Results depend on the phone model, lighting, and subject movement.

    Should I always use Night mode?

    Not necessarily. Night mode works best in genuinely dark scenes. In moderately bright environments, regular Photo mode may produce a more natural result. Some phones activate low-light processing automatically when needed.

    Does increasing ISO improve night photos?

    Higher ISO can brighten a darker image but introduces more visible noise. On phones with manual controls, a lower practical ISO can produce cleaner results when enough light is available.

    How can I reduce blurry night photos?

    Keep the phone as still as possible during capture. Use a tripod or stable surface for longer exposures. Avoid moving subjects when the camera needs more time to collect light.

  • Top Job Search Hurdles and Proven Strategies to Overcome Them

    Top Job Search Hurdles and Proven Strategies to Overcome Them

    Finding the right job can be a difficult and time-consuming process. Candidates often face intense competition, lengthy hiring processes, and changing employer expectations. The challenges can begin with finding suitable vacancies and continue through resume screening, interviews, and repeated applications.

    Career guidance and recent research point to several common hurdles, including finding roles that match a candidate’s skills, tailoring resumes for individual applications, dealing with Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS), employment gaps, and limited professional experience.

    Finding the Right Job

    Finding an opening that fits a candidate’s skill set, qualifications, and ambitions is another hurdle when searching for employment opportunities. According to Jobscan, the 2025 State of the Job Search survey reveals that 30% of the surveyed found it difficult to find a job that matches their qualifications and skills.

    Applying to all open opportunities does not guarantee success in the job search journey. To begin with, candidates need to be aware of the type of opportunity they wish to pursue, along with the type of working conditions, responsibilities, salary expectations, and ambitions.

    There are several options for expanding one’s search beyond just job boards. Opportunities at target firms, associations, and networking within the firm can prove helpful. Networking could also reveal openings that cannot be discovered through other avenues.

    Creating a Resume that Gets Noticed

    Creating customized resumes for various job opportunities is yet another key challenge. According to Jobscan, 26% of the surveyed people viewed the need to adapt their resumes as one of the challenges. Also, 24% indicated the need to ensure their resume was compatible with Applicant Tracking Systems as one of the issues, whereas 22% faced problems with the conciseness of their resume.

    Using a master resume can help in overcoming this problem. Individuals would maintain all their experience, accomplishments, and skills in one single file and then customize the relevant information to meet the demands of particular job openings.

    In addition, using relevant keywords in their resume, which would correspond to the needs outlined in the job description, would also assist in finding relevant qualifications.

    Overcoming Limited Experience and Employment Gaps

    Limited work experience may be one of the biggest obstacles, especially for fresh graduates or those who have recently changed professions. A gap in work experience, inadequate educational background or training, and lack of references can further complicate one’s job search process. One could use their transferable skills, completed projects, training, and accomplishments to resolve such problems. In the course of the interview, a candidate should be ready to talk about his/her employment gaps but at the same time explain what he/she learned during that time.

    Professional inexperience can become an obstacle in itself especially for fresh graduates and career changers. Other obstacles include employment gaps, lack of education or training, as well as a lack of professional references.

    This can be resolved through showcasing transferable skills, relevant projects, training, and accomplishments. During the interview, candidates will have to be ready to explain their employment gap as well as the skills and experiences gained throughout the gap. Now attention can be shifted to the skills and experience that the candidate can bring to the table.

    Preparing for Interview

    Getting to the interview stage does not guarantee employment. Unpreparedness, a lack of information about the company, and an inability to answer basic questions may hinder your chances of securing employment.

    Interview preparation requires knowing the employer and the description of the job and rehearsing probable interview questions. Preparation of examples that would demonstrate your skills and experiences is also recommended.

    According to a LinkedIn survey by BrighterMonday, out of 1,878 votes, 46% voted for the actual job interview as the most difficult stage in the job-seeking process. 27% voted for preparing a good CV or cover letter, 23% voted for searching for job vacancies, and 4% chose other options.

    Staying Consistent During Long Job Search

    A long job search can also be hard. According to Jobscan, 32% of participants responded that they have been searching for a job for over six months.

    Beyond counting applications, a candidate can see whether their efforts lead to interviews, recruiter interactions, and networking. If there is no reply to applications, one may reconsider their resume or apply to other positions.

    Job search involves many trials, rejections, and uncertainties. The right strategy, including appropriate actions, may help you overcome them.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    1. What is one of the biggest challenges during a job search?

    Finding suitable roles matching your skills, qualifications, career goals and expectations can make the job search difficult and time-consuming.

    2. Why should candidates customise their resumes for different jobs?

    Customising resumes highlights relevant skills and experience while helping candidates align their applications with specific job descriptions and requirements.

    3. How can candidates address employment gaps?

    Candidates can explain employment gaps honestly while highlighting transferable skills, relevant projects, training, achievements and experience gained during that period.

    4. How can job seekers prepare better for interviews?

    Research the employer, understand the job description, practise likely questions and prepare specific examples demonstrating your skills and previous experience.

    5. What can candidates do during a prolonged job search?

    Track applications, review resumes, target suitable positions, build professional networks, develop skills and adjust strategies when applications receive limited responses.

  • Why AI Agents and Multi-Agent Systems Are the Must-Have GenAI Skills in 2026

    Why AI Agents and Multi-Agent Systems Are the Must-Have GenAI Skills in 2026

    Generative AI is evolving far beyond simple chatbots and prompt-based tools. In 2026, businesses are increasingly deploying AI agents that can execute multi-step tasks, interact with software tools, and collaborate across workflows. This shift is driving demand for professionals who not only use AI but also build, manage, and evaluate these complex systems.

    AI Skills Demand Surges

    The 2026 AI Index reveals a dramatic rise in job postings requiring agent-related skills in the United States. In 2025, 16,541 job postings mentioned Agentic AI, up from just 151 in 2024—a staggering 10,854% increase. Similarly, postings for AI agents grew 1,062% to 15,217, while multi-agent system mentions rose from 1,635 to 5,461. LangGraph-related postings jumped from 194 to 4,294. These numbers highlight the growing need for expertise in new AI architectures, particularly in tech and AI-specific roles.

    Multi-Agent Systems Transform Workflows

    Unlike conventional chatbots that respond to individual prompts, AI agents can perform multiple steps, use tools, and cooperate with other agents. Multi-agent systems extend this by assigning distinct tasks to separate agents. Microsoft’s 2026 Work Trend Index reports that active agents in the Microsoft 365 ecosystem grew 15× year-over-year, and 18× in large enterprises. The report identifies “Frontier Professionals” who leverage agents for multi-step workflows and build multi-agent systems. For learners, understanding agent communication, task division, information flow, and human oversight is becoming essential as companies integrate AI into complex processes.

    Beyond Prompting: Deeper GenAI Skills

    Learning generative AI in 2026 is increasingly about what happens behind the interface. Skills such as retrieval-augmented generation (RAG), orchestration, evaluation, observability, guardrails, and deployment are now critical for practical AI development. For instance, IIT Hyderabad offers an Applied AI Professional Certification Program covering RAG, orchestration, multi-agent systems, AI engineering tools, evaluation methods, observability, guardrails, and deployment strategies—all centered on building and deploying a production-style AI agent system. This reflects a broader shift: practical development skills are gaining importance alongside basic familiarity with generative AI tools.

    Human Skills Remain Vital

    Studying AI does not mean discarding traditional competencies. According to Microsoft’s research, 50% of AI users say quality control of AI output is becoming increasingly important as a human skill, while 46% cite critical thinking. Moreover, 86% view AI output as initial information. Assessing AI systems is crucial because they can produce incorrect data, misunderstand instructions, or behave unexpectedly—especially when given more autonomy. Recent news reinforces this: in September 2026, OpenAI released a framework for regularly disclosing when AI systems show unexpected or unauthorized behavior.

    What to Learn in 2026

    If you’re planning a career in AI, it’s about more than prompting. An AI roadmap should include: basics of generative AI, prompt engineering, RAG, AI agents, agent orchestration, tooling, evaluation, observability, security, and AI governance. The goal is not just to acquire new tools but to understand how to design, evaluate, and deploy these systems. As AI agent-related jobs and enterprise adoption grow, students and professionals should invest in learning these technologies to adapt to organizational changes—from experimenting with GenAI to integrating AI agents into daily workflows.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What is Generative AI?
    Generative AI creates text, images, code, and other content using models trained on large datasets and user-provided instructions.
    What are multi-agent systems?
    Multi-agent systems involve multiple AI agents working together, with each agent handling specific tasks within a larger workflow.
    Why are AI agents becoming important in 2026?
    Businesses increasingly use AI agents for multi-step tasks, software tools, and workflows, creating demand for professionals with specialized skills.
    What skills should professionals learn alongside GenAI?
    Professionals can learn RAG, prompt engineering, orchestration, agent development, evaluation, observability, deployment, security, and AI governance.
    Are traditional human skills still important with AI?
    Yes, critical thinking and quality control remain important because AI systems can produce inaccurate information or misunderstand instructions.
  • NYT Strands Hints, Spangram, and Answers for September 19, 2026

    NYT Strands Hints, Spangram, and Answers for September 19, 2026

    Overview

    Today’s NYT Strands puzzle centers on a pirate and shipwreck theme. The Spangram begins near the left side of the grid. Below you’ll find hints and clues, or you can jump straight to the answer key.

    What Is NYT Strands & How to Play It?

    NYT Strands blends elements of the NYT Crossword, Connections, and Spelling Bee. Players are given a 6×8 letter board and a daily theme hint. The goal is to find words that fit the theme, plus one special Spangram that connects two opposite sides of the grid.

    NYT Strands Hints for Today

    Use these hint words to help uncover the answers:

    • Stoat
    • Peer
    • Stale
    • Moat
    • Peak
    • Tome
    • Rats
    • Rate

    Spangram Reveal and Explanation

    The Spangram for September 19 is TALKLIKEAPIRATE. To find it, start with the T that is the last letter on the far-left vertical row and wind across the grid. This phrase refers to speaking with stereotypical pirate slang, growling sounds (like “Arrr”), and exaggerated accents popularized by Hollywood films.

    NYT Strands Answers for Today

    Here are all the non-Spangram answers for September 19:

    • Arrr
    • Avast
    • Matey
    • Savvy
    • Yohoho
    • Hearties

    Understanding the Theme for Today

    The theme “Shiver me timbers” is an exclamation used to express surprise, shock, or fear, famously associated with stereotypical pirate speech in fiction. “Shiver” means to break or splinter into small pieces, and “timbers” refers to the wooden support beams of a sailing ship’s hull. It originally described the violent shock of a large wave or cannonball smashing into a ship, causing its wooden frame to shudder and split.

    Tips for Solving NYT Strands

    Here are a few simple tips to help you solve NYT Strands more quickly:

    • Identify the theme. Start by thinking about words related to today’s theme, ‘Shiver me timbers!’
    • Look for long words stretching across the edges of the grid, as they often form the Spangram.

  • Apple’s iCloud+ Expansion in India Adds Apple TV, Arcade, and Music Select

    Apple has started rolling out an expanded iCloud+ subscription in India, now bundling Apple TV and Apple Arcade at no extra cost. The updated plans also introduce Apple Music Select, a new ad-free music station feature. Meanwhile, Apple One subscriptions are being closed to new users in the country.

    Apple TV and Apple Arcade Now Included

    The new iCloud+ plan gives subscribers access to Apple TV content and Apple Arcade’s library of over 200 games, including titles like Hello Kitty Island Adventure, Sneaky Sasquatch, and Football Manager 26 Touch. Users began receiving notifications about the updated plan, which combines cloud storage with video streaming and gaming services.

    The iCloud+ plan starts at Rs. 75 per month for 50GB of storage, with higher storage options available. Subscribers can share their plan with up to five family members through Family Sharing.

    Apple Music Select Added

    Apple is also adding Apple Music Select to the package for Indian users. This feature offers ad-free music stations within the existing Apple Music app. It does not provide the full Apple Music subscription; users who want complete access can subscribe separately. For iCloud+ users, Apple lists the Individual plan at Rs. 115 per month and the Family plan at Rs. 145 per month.

    The company is ending direct standalone subscriptions for Apple TV and Apple Arcade in India. Existing subscribers will continue accessing these services through their iCloud+ plans. Apple assured that Arcade game progress and saved data will be preserved.

    Apple One Closed to New Subscribers

    Apple is also closing Apple One subscriptions to new customers in India. Existing Apple One subscribers will continue with their current plans. Apple One previously combined services such as Apple Music, Apple TV, Apple Arcade, and iCloud+ storage, priced at Rs. 195 per month for an Individual plan and Rs. 365 per month for a Family plan.

    The expanded iCloud+ offering will roll out through September across more than 100 countries and regions, with India among the first markets to receive the new subscription structure.

  • Apple TV+ Weekly Roundup: Must-Watch Shows and Episodes Dropping September 19-20

    Apple TV+ Weekly Roundup: Must-Watch Shows and Episodes Dropping September 19-20

    Apple TV+ is delivering a robust lineup this week, headlined by the return of its acclaimed espionage series Slow Horses for a sixth season, alongside fresh episodes of fan favorites Ted Lasso, Last Seen, and Dark Matter. From September 14 to 20, subscribers can dive into a mix of espionage, comedy, mystery, and sci-fi.

    Slow Horses Season 6 – Premieres September 16

    The biggest new arrival is Slow Horses Season 6, starring Gary Oldman as the gruff Jackson Lamb. The six-episode season, adapted from Mick Herron’s novels Joe Country and Slough House, follows the dysfunctional MI5 agents as they stumble into another dangerous conspiracy. New episodes drop weekly, with the finale scheduled for October 21. Olivia Cooke reprises her role as Sid Baker alongside the regular ensemble. Apple TV+ will release one episode each week, building anticipation throughout the fall.

    Ted Lasso Season 4 – New Episode

    Ted Lasso continues its fourth season this week, with Jason Sudeikis returning as the optimistic coach. This season sees Ted taking on a new challenge: coaching a second-division women’s football team. Apple describes this as a fresh chapter where Ted and his players face unfamiliar hurdles and learn to embrace bigger risks. The series remains one of Apple TV+’s most beloved originals, and its weekly episodes are a highlight of the month.

    Last Seen – New Episode

    The Australian thriller Last Seen, which premiered earlier this month, continues its weekly run. The series follows a mysterious disappearance, with its latest episode adding another layer to the developing investigation. It’s one of the original titles Apple is spotlighting in its September programming alongside Slow Horses and the upcoming Brothers.

    Dark Matter Season 2 – New Episode

    Subscribers can also catch the newest episode of Dark Matter Season 2, the science-fiction thriller based on Blake Crouch’s bestselling novel. The story follows physicist Jason Dessen, whose life becomes entangled with alternate realities. The second season continues the family’s struggle against new threats while seeking safety. This blend of sci-fi, family drama, and mystery makes it a standout genre offering.

    This Week’s Highlights at a Glance

    With Slow Horses returning, this week marks one of Apple TV+’s biggest September lineups. The streamer also recently added the comedy Brothers, while Mayday and Last Seen have joined the catalogue earlier this month. Whether you’re into spy thrillers, heartwarming comedies, or mind-bending sci-fi, there’s something for everyone.