Technology

The Nightmare of Google’s AI Search Tool for News Publishers

Published

3 years ago

December 15, 2023

Fred Wilson

The Nightmare of Google’s AI Search Tool for News Publishers

Introduction

Hello, I am Fred Wilson, a former journalist and a current media consultant. I have been working in the media industry for over 20 years, covering various topics such as politics, business, culture, and technology. I have witnessed the evolution of journalism and the challenges it faces in the digital age.

In this article, I want to share with you my insights and concerns about Google’s new AI search tool, SGE, which stands for Search Generated Excerpts. This tool uses generative AI to create summaries for some search queries, based on many web pages. Sounds impressive, right? Well, not so much if you are a news publisher or a reader who cares about the future of journalism.

SGE is a nightmare for news publishers, as it poses serious threats to their survival and credibility. In this article, I will explain what SGE is, how it works, and why it is controversial. I will also discuss some possible solutions or strategies that news publishers can adopt to cope with or resist SGE. I hope this article will raise your awareness and spark your interest in this important issue.

Picture by: https://kenyanwallstreet.com/

The Problem with SGE

SGE is a new feature that Google launched in late 2023, as part of its efforts to improve its search engine and provide better answers to users’ queries. SGE uses generative AI to create summaries for some search queries, based on many web pages. For example, if you search for “Who is the president of France?”, SGE may generate a summary like this:

Emmanuel Macron is the president of France since 2017. He is the leader of the centrist party La République En Marche! and the youngest president in French history. He is known for his pro-European and reformist agenda, as well as his controversial handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and the yellow vests protests.

This summary is not taken from any single web page, but synthesized by Google’s AI from multiple sources. Google claims that SGE is designed to provide quick and accurate answers to factual questions, without requiring users to click on any links or visit any websites.

However, news publishers are not happy with SGE, as they see it as a threat to their existence and reputation. Here are some of the main concerns of news publishers regarding SGE:

Losing traffic and revenue from Google’s search engine, which relies on ads and subscriptions. News publishers depend on Google’s search engine to drive traffic to their websites, where they can generate revenue from ads and subscriptions. However, SGE reduces the need for users to click on any links or visit any websites, as they can get the answers they want from Google’s summaries. This means that news publishers lose potential visitors and customers, as well as the opportunity to showcase their brand and content.
Being unable to control or monetize their content, which may be used by Google or other AI companies without their consent or compensation. News publishers invest a lot of time, money, and resources to produce quality content that is original, accurate, and relevant. However, SGE may use their content to train its AI models or generate its summaries, without their permission or payment. This means that news publishers lose their intellectual property rights and the value of their content, as they are essentially giving it away for free to Google or other AI companies that may use it for their own purposes.
Facing competition from other sources of information that may be more accurate, reliable, or diverse than their own. News publishers strive to provide trustworthy and authoritative information to their audiences, based on their expertise, experience, and ethics. However, SGE may create summaries that are more accurate, reliable, or diverse than their own, based on a larger and more diverse pool of sources. This means that news publishers lose their competitive edge and their credibility, as they may be outperformed or contradicted by Google’s summaries.
Losing credibility and trust from their audiences, who may be exposed to misleading or biased summaries that do not reflect their original content. News publishers aim to inform and educate their audiences, based on their editorial standards and values. However, SGE may create summaries that are misleading or biased, based on the algorithm’s preferences, limitations, or errors. This means that news publishers lose their integrity and their trust, as they may be misrepresented or misquoted by Google’s summaries.

Image by jay88ld0 from Pixabay

The Solution for News Publishers

SGE is a nightmare for news publishers, but it is not the end of the world. There are some possible solutions or strategies that news publishers can adopt to cope with or resist SGE, such as:

Using tools like Google-Extended, which gives publishers the choice to block their content from being used by Google to train its AI models. Google-Extended is a tool developed by a group of researchers and activists, who are concerned about the ethical and social implications of Google’s AI. Google-Extended allows publishers to opt out of Google’s data collection and usage, by adding a simple code to their websites. This way, publishers can protect their content and their rights, and prevent Google from using their content to improve its AI or generate its summaries.
Collaborating with other media outlets or organizations that share similar values and goals, such as independent journalism, fact-checking, or public service broadcasting. Independent journalism is a form of journalism that is free from political, corporate, or other influences, and that focuses on serving the public interest and holding the powerful accountable. Fact-checking is a process of verifying the accuracy and reliability of information, especially in the context of politics, news, or social media. Public service broadcasting is a system of broadcasting that is funded by the public and that aims to provide diverse, high-quality, and educational content to the public. By collaborating with other media outlets or organizations that share these values and goals, news publishers can create a network of support and solidarity, and a platform of influence and advocacy, to challenge Google’s dominance and promote their own vision and mission.
Diversifying their revenue streams by creating alternative platforms or products that offer value-added services or subscriptions to their audiences. News publishers can explore new ways of generating revenue, by creating alternative platforms or products that offer value-added services or subscriptions to their audiences. For example, news publishers can create newsletters, podcasts, videos, or apps that provide exclusive, personalized, or interactive content to their subscribers. News publishers can also create events, courses, or memberships that provide educational, professional, or social benefits to their participants. By diversifying their revenue streams, news publishers can reduce their dependence on Google’s search engine, and increase their loyalty and engagement with their audiences.
Investing in quality journalism that provides in-depth analysis, context, and verification of information. News publishers can invest in quality journalism that provides in-depth analysis, context, and verification of information, rather than superficial or sensationalized information. Quality journalism is journalism that is based on rigorous research, evidence, and sources, and that provides comprehensive, balanced, and nuanced perspectives on complex and important issues. Quality journalism is journalism that is not only informative, but also insightful, enlightening, and empowering. By investing in quality journalism, news publishers can differentiate themselves from Google’s summaries, and provide value and meaning to their audiences.

Conclusion

SGE is a nightmare for news publishers, as it threatens their survival and credibility. SGE uses generative AI to create summaries for some search queries, based on many web pages. SGE poses serious threats to news publishers, such as losing traffic and revenue, being unable to control or monetize their content, facing competition from other sources of information, and losing credibility and trust from their audiences.

However, news publishers can cope with or resist SGE, by using tools like Google-Extended, collaborating with other media outlets or organizations, diversifying their revenue streams, and investing in quality journalism. These solutions or strategies can help news publishers protect their content and their rights, create a network of support and solidarity, reduce their dependence on Google’s search engine, increase their loyalty and engagement with their audiences, and provide value and meaning to their audiences.

SGE is a nightmare for news publishers, but it is also a wake-up call for us, the readers, who care about the future of journalism. We need to support news publishers in their struggle against SGE and other forms of generative AI that threaten their livelihoods and democracy. We need to demand fair treatment and respect for news publishers from Google and other tech giants. We need to appreciate and value the work of news publishers, who provide us with quality information and education. We need to be critical and responsible consumers of information, who seek the truth and verify the sources. We need to be active and engaged citizens, who use the information to make informed decisions and actions.

The future of journalism is in our hands. Let’s make it a bright one.

Author

Fred Wilson

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Technology

Epson Printer Error Code 0x9E? 10 Fixes That Actually Work

Published

3 weeks ago

October 7, 2026

adamsmithh

Seeing Epson Printer Error Code 0x9E can be frustrating, especially when the printer suddenly stops working during an important print job. This error may appear on the printer display or computer and can be associated with temporary system glitches, communication problems, paper-feed issues, internal obstructions, firmware problems, or hardware-related faults.

Before assuming that the printer needs repair, try some basic troubleshooting. In many cases, restarting the printer, checking for obstructions, reconnecting cables, or updating the printer software can restore normal operation.

Below are 10 practical ways to troubleshoot Epson Printer Error Code 0x9E.

1. Restart the Epson Printer

Start with a complete restart. Temporary errors in the printer’s internal system can sometimes trigger an error code.

Turn off the printer and disconnect its power cable from the electrical outlet. If the printer is connected to a computer through USB, disconnect that cable as well.

Wait approximately two to five minutes. Reconnect the power cable directly to a wall outlet, switch the printer back on, and check whether the 0x9E error returns.

If the printer starts normally, try printing a test page.

2. Perform a Power Reset

If a normal restart doesn’t work, try a power reset.

Turn off the printer and unplug the power cord. With the printer disconnected from power, press and hold the power button for approximately 20 seconds. Release the button and leave the printer disconnected for another few minutes.

Reconnect the power cable and turn the printer on.

A power reset can clear temporary electrical or internal control errors that may interfere with normal printer operation.

3. Check for Jammed Paper

A small piece of paper inside the printer can sometimes cause unexpected operational errors.

Turn the printer off before inspecting it. Check the input tray, output area, rear access area, and other accessible paper paths. Remove any visible jammed or torn paper carefully.

Avoid pulling paper aggressively because small pieces may tear off and remain inside the machine.

Once the paper path is clear, reload the paper correctly and restart the printer.

4. Look for Foreign Objects

Paper isn’t the only thing that can interfere with the printer’s internal mechanisms. Small objects such as labels, paper clips, dust buildup, or scraps of paper may obstruct moving components.

With the printer powered off and unplugged, inspect accessible areas using adequate lighting.

Do not force or disassemble internal components. If you notice an object that cannot be safely reached, professional servicing may be a better option.

5. Check the Ink Cartridges

Incorrectly installed or poorly seated cartridges may cause some printers to behave unexpectedly.

Open the cartridge access area according to your printer model’s normal procedure. Check whether each cartridge is properly installed.

If necessary, remove and reinstall the cartridges carefully. Make sure they click or sit securely in their designated positions.

Restart the printer afterward and see whether Epson Printer Error Code 0x9E disappears.

6. Inspect the Printer Connections

Communication problems between the printer and computer can sometimes complicate troubleshooting.

For a USB printer, disconnect and reconnect the USB cable. Try another USB port if one is available. Avoid using an unpowered USB hub while diagnosing the problem.

For a wireless printer, verify that the printer and computer are connected to the intended network. Restarting the router may also help if other devices are experiencing connectivity problems.

After restoring the connection, send a simple test document to the printer.

7. Clear the Print Queue

A corrupted or stuck print job can prevent normal printing even after the printer itself has recovered.

Open the printer queue on your computer and cancel pending documents. Restart both the printer and computer before attempting another print job.

If the printer works normally afterward, the problem may have been related to the previous print job rather than a persistent hardware fault.

8. Update or Reinstall the Printer Driver

Outdated, corrupted, or incompatible printer software can cause communication and printing problems.

Check which Epson printer model you own and make sure the correct driver is installed for your operating system. If the driver appears damaged or the problem started after a software change, uninstalling and reinstalling the appropriate printer software may help.

Restart the computer after installation and reconnect the printer.

Then print a test page to determine whether the error has been resolved.

9. Check for Firmware Updates

Firmware controls many of the printer’s internal functions. In some circumstances, updating the firmware can resolve known operational problems.

Check whether an appropriate firmware update is available for your exact printer model. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and keep the printer connected to a reliable power source throughout the update.

Never interrupt a firmware installation by switching off or unplugging the printer.

After the update is complete, restart the printer and check its status.

10. Consider an Internal Hardware Problem

If Epson Printer Error Code 0x9E remains after basic troubleshooting, an internal mechanical or electronic fault may be involved.

Possible trouble areas can include sensors, carriage mechanisms, paper-feed components, internal electronics, or other model-specific parts. The exact meaning of an error can vary by printer model, so avoid replacing components based solely on a generic error-code description.

At this point, check the documentation for your exact Epson model or have the printer professionally inspected.

What If Epson Error Code 0x9E Keeps Returning?

An error that disappears temporarily but repeatedly returns deserves additional attention. Note when the problem occurs. For example, determine whether it appears immediately after startup, while feeding paper, when beginning a print job, or after the printer has operated for several minutes.

This information can help distinguish between software, connectivity, paper-feed, and internal hardware problems.

You should also avoid repeatedly forcing the printer to operate if you hear grinding, clicking, or other unusual mechanical noises.

Final Thoughts

Epson Printer Error Code 0x9E does not always mean that the printer has permanently failed. Begin with simple troubleshooting: restart the printer, perform a power reset, inspect the paper path, check the cartridges, verify connections, and clear pending print jobs.

You can then check the printer driver and firmware if the problem continues. If the Epson Error Code 0x9E persists after these steps—particularly when accompanied by unusual noises or mechanical problems—the printer may require model-specific diagnosis or professional servicing.

Following the troubleshooting steps in order can help you identify the cause without making unnecessary changes to the printer.

Author

adamsmithh

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Business

Stratbeans Custom eLearning Development for Organisations

Published

3 weeks ago

October 3, 2026

Sumit

Some organisations may need a dedicated LMS for employee onboarding and compliance training. Others may require advanced assessments, certifications, analytics, integrations and structured learning paths. For organisations with highly specific requirements, a standard off-the-shelf platform may not provide the flexibility they need.

This is where Stratbeans brings its expertise in custom eLearning development and corporate learning technology.

Rather than asking organisations to adapt their training processes to a fixed platform, Stratbeans focuses on understanding the organisation’s learning requirements first and developing or configuring solutions around them.

A Corporate Dedicated LMS Built Around Organisational Needs

Every organisation approaches learning differently.

A growing company may need a straightforward platform to manage employee training, courses and assessments. A large enterprise may need a more comprehensive learning ecosystem supporting multiple departments, user groups, certifications, compliance programmes, reporting and integrations.

There can also be organisations with unique workflows that require capabilities beyond a conventional LMS.

A corporate dedicated LMS can help address these requirements by creating a learning environment that is aligned with the organisation rather than relying entirely on a standardised approach.

Stratbeans works with organisations to understand these requirements and provide learning solutions that can evolve as their workforce and business needs change.

Bytecasting LMS – A Structured Approach to Corporate Learning

For organisations looking for a practical and structured learning environment, Bytecasting LMS provides capabilities for managing digital learning across an organisation.

The platform can support areas such as course management, learner administration, assessments and reporting, giving organisations a centralised environment for managing employee learning.

For companies beginning their digital learning journey or looking to bring existing training programmes onto a dedicated platform, Bytecasting LMS provides a foundation for structured corporate learning.

Bytecasting Evolve – For Growing Learning Requirements

As organisations expand, their learning requirements often become more complex.

Bytecasting Evolve is designed for organisations that need a broader learning environment capable of supporting evolving training requirements. It can help organisations manage learning content, users, assessments, reporting and learner experiences within a more comprehensive framework.

The focus is not only on delivering courses but on creating a learning ecosystem that can grow alongside an organisation’s workforce and business requirements.

ATUM LMS – A More Customised Learning Environment

Not every organisation can work effectively with a conventional LMS structure.

ATUM LMS is designed for organisations looking for greater flexibility and a more tailored approach to their learning environment. Depending on organisational requirements, the platform can be adapted to support specific learning and operational needs.

This approach can be particularly relevant for businesses that have established processes, specialised training structures or requirements that do not fit neatly into a standard LMS model.

Custom eLearning Development for Specific Business Requirements

An LMS is only one part of a corporate learning ecosystem. Organisations may also require customised learning modules, assessments, integrations, workflows, dashboards and other digital learning components.

Through its custom eLearning development capabilities, Stratbeans works with organisations to create learning solutions around their specific requirements.

This approach can include understanding existing learning processes, identifying technology gaps and developing digital learning experiences that align with organisational objectives.

The result is a more flexible approach to corporate learning, where technology can support the way an organisation actually operates.

One Organisation, One Learning Need

There is no universal approach to corporate learning.

A startup, a manufacturing company, a large enterprise and a professional services organisation may all have very different training requirements. Even organisations within the same industry can have different workforce structures, compliance needs, learning processes and technology environments.

That is why the focus of a dedicated corporate LMS platform should not simply be on the number of features available. It should also be on how effectively those features address the organisation’s actual learning requirements.

With Bytecasting LMS, Bytecasting Evolve and ATUM LMS, along with its custom eLearning development capabilities, Stratbeans offers organisations different ways to build and manage digital learning based on their specific requirements.

Whether an organisation is beginning its digital learning journey, expanding an existing employee training program or developing a more customised learning ecosystem, Stratbeans’ approach remains centred on the same principle: build the learning solution around the organisation, rather than forcing the organisation to fit the platform.

Final Thoughts

The eLearning content development landscape in India offers plenty of options, from large learning providers to specialised custom development companies.

The right choice ultimately depends on what you’re trying to achieve. If you’re looking for a partner that combines custom eLearning content development with corporate learning and LMS capabilities, Stratbeans is one company worth exploring.

Because good eLearning isn’t simply about creating an online course. It’s about creating a learning experience that people understand, remember and can actually use at work.

At the end of the day, the goal is simple: create learning that is useful, engaging and built around the people who will actually use it.

Author

Sumit

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Business

What is a smart water management system and how does it work?

Published

3 weeks ago

October 3, 2026

bestedgetech

Water is one of the most important resources for homes, businesses, industries, and cities. However, managing water efficiently can be difficult when systems depend on manual readings and traditional monitoring methods. Water leaks, high consumption, equipment problems, and unexpected usage can increase costs and lead to water waste.

A smart water management system uses connected devices, sensors, software, and data analytics to monitor and manage water usage more efficiently. With technologies such as IoT device management and IoT gateways, organizations can collect real-time water data and use it to make better decisions.

What Is a Smart Water Management System?

A smart water management system is a technology-based solution that helps monitor, control, and optimize water usage.

It can collect information such as:

Water consumption
Flow rate
Pressure levels
Tank levels
Leakage conditions
Water quality parameters
Equipment performance
Usage patterns

Instead of depending only on manual meter readings, smart systems can automatically collect and transmit data. This makes it easier to understand how water is being used and identify problems quickly.

Smart water management can be used in residential buildings, commercial properties, factories, farms, hospitals, hotels, municipalities, and other facilities.

How Does a Smart Water Management System Work?

A smart water management system generally works through a combination of sensors, meters, IoT devices, IoT gateways, communication networks, and cloud or monitoring platforms.

The process can be divided into several simple steps.

1. Water Data Is Collected

Smart meters and sensors are installed at important points in the water network. These devices measure different parameters depending on the requirements of the facility.

For example, a smart water meter can measure the amount of water being consumed. Flow sensors can monitor the movement of water through pipes, while pressure sensors can identify unusual pressure changes.

The collected information provides a clear view of water usage.

2. IoT Devices Send the Data

The sensors and smart meters generate data at regular intervals. IoT devices help collect this information automatically.

This reduces the need for workers to visit every location and record readings manually.

For example, a building can use connected water meters to record the consumption of different floors or units. The data can then be sent to a central monitoring system.

3. IoT Gateway Connects Devices

An IoT gateway plays an important role in connecting field devices with the central platform.

Water sensors and meters may use different communication technologies and protocols. The IoT gateway can collect information from these devices, process it, and send the required data to a cloud or server platform.

The gateway can also help with:

Device communication
Data processing
Protocol conversion
Local data storage
Security
Remote monitoring

This makes the IoT gateway an important part of a connected water management architecture.

4. Data Is Transmitted to a Platform

After the data is collected and processed, it can be transmitted through available communication networks.

Depending on the application, systems may use technologies such as cellular connectivity, Wi-Fi, Ethernet, LoRaWAN, or other communication methods.

The information can then reach a centralized software platform where users can view and analyze water data.

5. Data Is Analyzed

Collecting water data is only one part of smart water management. The data must also be analyzed to identify useful information.

A monitoring platform can help users understand:

Where water is being consumed
When consumption is highest
Whether usage is increasing
Where unusual flow is occurring
Whether a possible leak exists
How different locations compare
Whether equipment is operating normally

Historical data can also help organizations identify long-term consumption patterns.

Role of IoT Device Management

Managing a large number of connected water devices can become difficult without proper tools. This is where IoT device management becomes important.

IoT device management allows organizations to monitor and manage connected meters, sensors, gateways, and other devices from a central system.

Important functions can include:

Device Monitoring

Organizations can check whether devices are online, offline, or experiencing communication problems.

Remote Configuration

Some connected devices can be configured remotely. This can reduce the need for physical visits.

Software and Firmware Updates

Connected devices may require firmware updates to improve performance, security, or functionality. Centralized management can make these updates easier to handle.

Device Security

IoT device management can support authentication, access control, and other security practices to protect connected infrastructure.

Device Performance

Organizations can monitor device health and identify equipment that may require maintenance or replacement.

As water networks become more connected, effective IoT device management becomes increasingly important.

Why Is an IoT Gateway Important?

An IoT gateway acts as a communication bridge between field devices and backend systems.

In a water management environment, many sensors may be installed across a large area. These devices may generate large amounts of data.

The gateway can collect this information before sending it to the central platform.

Modern gateways can also support edge processing. Instead of sending every piece of raw data to the cloud, some information can be processed locally.

For example, if a sensor detects an unusual flow pattern, the gateway may identify the event and send an alert immediately.

This can help reduce communication delays and unnecessary data transmission.

Smart Water Management for Leak Detection

Water leakage is one of the major challenges faced by buildings, industries, and public water networks.

A smart system can continuously monitor flow and consumption patterns. If water usage changes unexpectedly, the system can generate an alert for further investigation.

For example, if water continues to flow during a period when a building is normally inactive, the system may identify the unusual activity.

Early detection can help organizations investigate possible leaks before they result in significant water loss.

Smart Water Management in Industries

Industries often use water for manufacturing, cooling, cleaning, processing, and other operations.

A smart water management system can help industrial facilities understand where water is being used and how much is being consumed.

Connected monitoring can be applied to:

Production areas
Cooling systems
Water treatment plants
ETP and STP systems
Storage tanks
Process water lines
Utility areas

This information can support better resource planning and help industries identify opportunities to reduce unnecessary consumption.

Smart Water Management in Buildings

Commercial and residential buildings can also benefit from connected water monitoring.

Smart meters can monitor consumption at different levels, such as individual apartments, floors, or common facilities.

Building managers can use this information to understand usage patterns and investigate unusual consumption.

For large buildings, centralized monitoring can make water management easier and reduce dependence on manual meter readings.

Benefits of a Smart Water Management System

A smart water management system can provide several practical benefits.

Better Visibility

Real-time data gives organizations a clearer understanding of how water is being consumed.

Reduced Water Waste

Unusual consumption and potential leaks can be identified more quickly.

Lower Operational Effort

Automated data collection can reduce repetitive manual meter-reading activities.

Faster Problem Detection

Alerts can help teams identify unusual conditions and investigate them earlier.

Better Decision-Making

Historical and real-time data can support more informed water management decisions.

Improved Resource Efficiency

Organizations can identify inefficient consumption patterns and take corrective action.

Current Trends in Smart Water Management

Smart water management is becoming more connected and data-driven. Several technology trends are shaping the sector.

AI and Data Analytics

Artificial intelligence and advanced analytics can help identify unusual consumption patterns, predict demand, and support better decision-making.

Edge Computing

More processing is moving closer to connected devices. Edge-enabled IoT gateways can analyze selected data locally and respond faster to important events.

Real-Time Monitoring

Organizations are increasingly moving from periodic readings toward continuous monitoring and alerts.

Connected Smart Meters

Smart meters are becoming an important part of digital water infrastructure because they can provide more frequent and automated consumption data.

Cloud-Based Platforms

Cloud platforms can bring data from multiple locations into one centralized system, making it easier to monitor distributed water infrastructure.

Predictive Maintenance

Data from connected equipment can help identify potential performance issues before they become major operational problems.

The Future of Smart Water Management

The future of water management will depend increasingly on connected infrastructure and better use of data.

As more sensors, smart meters, and IoT devices are deployed, organizations will have access to more detailed information about their water networks. Combining this information with IoT device management, IoT gateways, analytics, automation, and AI can create more responsive water management systems.

The goal is not simply to collect more data. The goal is to turn that data into useful actions that improve efficiency, reduce waste, and support sustainable water use.

Conclusion

A smart water management system combines sensors, smart meters, IoT devices, communication networks, IoT gateways, and software platforms to monitor and manage water more effectively.

The system collects water data, transfers it through connected infrastructure, analyzes consumption patterns, and provides useful information for faster decision-making. IoT device management helps organizations maintain and monitor connected devices, while the IoT gateway provides an important link between field devices and central platforms.

From buildings and industries to cities and public infrastructure, smart water technologies can support better visibility, faster problem detection, efficient resource use, and more sustainable water management.