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Nearly 90 percent of companies believe people will determine AI success, but far fewer are investing in related people strategies, Inaugural Aon Study Finds

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DUBLIN, April 28, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Aon plc (NYSE: AON), a leading global professional services firm, today released its inaugural Human Capital Trends Study, revealing a critical gap at the center of enterprise AI strategies: organizations recognize their people will drive AI success, but they are not investing in their people strategies.

According to the study, 88 percent of employers agree that AI will require their workforce to develop new skills and rank human capabilities such as adaptability, leadership and change management as the most critical drivers of success in the next three years, even ahead of technical skills.

While 73 percent of organizations have already deployed or are piloting AI programs, only 18 percent report that most of their workforce has participated in AI reskilling or upskilling programs in the past year. The gap is most visible where AI strategies are advanced in isolation — without clear alignment to business objectives, operating models or the workforce capabilities required to deliver them.

Only 28 percent of organizations surveyed have hired employees with AI expertise, underscoring a continued reliance on developing talent from within. The result is a disconnect between what organizations know will drive success and how they are prioritizing resources — one that is emerging as a material risk to enterprise value.

“The winners in the application of AI will lead with world-class people strategies,” said Greg Case, president and CEO of Aon. “AI represents a historic opportunity for growth, particularly for organizations that approach transformation by integrating people and technology — so they evolve in lockstep. By closing the gap between ambition and readiness, leaders can act with confidence, strengthen long‑term resilience and win today and in the future.”

Workforce Readiness Is Shaping How AI Performs at Scale

As organizations invest heavily in AI, many are deploying technology faster than they are building the skills, structures and human support needed to make it effective. The study finds that many organizations continue to prioritize short-term efficiency gains over developing the workforce capabilities needed to sustain impact. Eighty percent of organizations cite automating routine tasks as a primary objective for AI; only 35 percent prioritize workforce upskilling and reskilling.

At the same time leaders acknowledge that human capabilities will increasingly determine AI success, 84 percent of employers say human strengths will become more important as automation increases and 37 percent of leaders identify future workforce skills gaps as their top concern over the next five to 10 years. Together, these findings point to a clear misalignment: organizations are accelerating automation while underinvesting in the people required to operationalize it differently.

The study underscores that people risks are business risks. Workforce readiness is a critical factor in translating AI investment into consistent execution. When leaders lack clear expectations and guardrails for how AI is used, or when readiness efforts lag behind deployment, organizations face slower adoption, fragmented decision-making and greater operational and reputational exposure — limiting the performance gains AI is expected to deliver.

“AI success ultimately depends on their people, but most are still investing primarily in the technology. That disconnect is where opportunity is lost,” said Byron Beebe, CEO of Human Capital for Aon. “Closing the readiness gap takes a coordinated approach — building skills and confidence, setting clear governance and enabling leaders to guide change — so technology investments translate into sustainable performance and resilience.”

Organizations that Operationalize AI Also Invest in Their People

The study also finds that organizations further along in AI deployment demonstrate stronger alignment between their technology and workforce strategy. For example, organizations that have fully deployed AI are more than twice as likely to describe their leadership’s commitment to employee wellbeing as strong and visible compared to those who’ve discussed AI but haven’t taken action.

This suggests that the ability to operationalize AI is closely tied to a broader focus on human sustainability, engagement and trust – factors that enable organizations to scale change effectively and sustain performance over time.

Turning AI Investment into Impact

Beyond identifying risk, Aon’s Human Capital Trends Study outlines practical actions organizations can take to close the readiness gap and unlock value from AI. These include aligning AI strategy with workforce planning; assessing AI skills and future capability needs and investing in structured, organization-wide reskilling and upskilling strengthening leadership capability to guide change with clear governance and guardrails; and using more mature, connected people data and analytics to make smarter decisions about where to invest. Organizations that act decisively can build more resilient, confident and productive workforces and fully realize the promise of AI.

As AI adoption accelerates, organizations face a clear choice: continue prioritizing technology alone or invest equally in the workforce required to make it effective. Those that close the gap between intention and action by building skills, strengthening culture and enabling leadership will be best positioned to convert AI into a durable competitive advantage.

Read the full 2026 Human Capital Trends Study here.

ENDS

About Aon

Aon plc (NYSE: AON) exists to shape decisions for the better — to protect and enrich the lives of people around the world. Through actionable analytic insight, globally integrated Risk Capital and Human Capital expertise, and locally relevant solutions, our colleagues provide clients in over 120 countries with the clarity and confidence to make better risk and people decisions that protect and grow their businesses.

Follow Aon on LinkedIn, X, Facebook and Instagram. Stay up-to-date by visiting Aon’s newsroom and sign up for news alerts here.

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Trimble Links SketchUp with Anthropic’s Claude, Bringing New Conversational AI-powered Capabilities to 3D Modeling

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22 minutes ago

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April 29, 2026

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Trusted, intuitive AI enhances design workflows, making it easier to move from creative concepts to 3D models

WESTMINSTER, Colo., April 28, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Trimble (Nasdaq: TRMB) today announced a specialized integration with Claude, the large language model and AI assistant from Anthropic, that makes it easier for Trimble® SketchUp® software users to create 3D models directly from conversational text or speech prompts.

The powerful new capabilities are enabled by a SketchUp Connector model context protocol (MCP) service that allows Claude to interact directly with SketchUp (.skp) files. The connectivity enhances existing design workflows and expands access to 3D modeling for people at any skill level.

Trimble SketchUp is a professional-grade 3D modeling software used widely in architecture, design, construction and other fields. This is the first Connector created by Trimble that connects the SketchUp design environment with other tools via the MCP framework.

Conversational 3D modeling
The SketchUp Connector integration with Claude lets users create 3D geometry, such as building massing models, landscapes or furniture by simply describing what they want. Plain-language inputs alongside reference images, sketches, photos, floor plans and dimensions that users upload can give Claude the context needed to understand the design goal. Claude builds the geometry in a cloud SketchUp session, verifying dimensions iteratively.

“The learning curve and time it takes for professionals to transfer a vision to a digital model has traditionally been the biggest barrier to 3D modeling,” said Chris Cronin, vice president and general manager of architecture and design solutions at Trimble. “Natural language prompts and the power of AI make it easy for anyone to get started and excel, including inexperienced and non-traditional 3D design users, bringing us closer to our ‘3D for everyone’ goal.”

The specialized Claude integration for SketchUp is consistent with Trimble-wide initiatives to democratize advanced technology and make them available and accessible to a wider range of users, according to Cronin.

Additional 3D modeling advantages
In addition to allowing natural language prompts, the SketchUp Claude Connector tracks version history within a single chat, enabling users to rapidly navigate, troubleshoot and refine their 3D models. If a design is not quite accurate, users can describe necessary changes or paste screenshots from SketchUp directly into the chat to point out specific angles, proportions or elements that need adjustment.

When a model is completed, the Connector creates a 2D preview thumbnail and provides a direct download link to the .skp file. Users can instantly download, open and edit the file in any SketchUp modeler.

Users can also design and train Claude on core skills and unique workflows to complete repetitive tasks more quickly and efficiently.

Availability
Users can get started today by enabling Trimble SketchUp in Claude’s MCP directory connector settings. Accessing the Connector requires a Claude account and a Trimble ID for authentication. Users receive a free SketchUp entitlement that allows them to save up to 30 SketchUp models; after that, a paid entitlement is required. Resulting files can be opened in SketchUp for Web, Desktop, iPad or iPhone.

About Trimble
Trimble is a global technology company that connects the physical and digital worlds, transforming the ways work gets done. With relentless innovation in precise positioning, modeling and data analytics, Trimble enables essential industries including construction, geospatial and transportation. Whether it’s helping customers build and maintain infrastructure, design and construct buildings, optimize global supply chains or map the world, Trimble is at the forefront, driving productivity and progress. For more information about Trimble (Nasdaq: TRMB), visit: www.trimble.com.

FTRMB

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Topaz Labs announces its largest single release of AI models in company history with “Next-Gen” launch

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1 hour ago

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April 28, 2026

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DALLAS, April 28, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Topaz Labs, the AI image and video enhancement company, has announced four new image enhancement models and two video enhancement models across five applications. The collection of “Next-Gen” models offer powerful sharpening, denoising, and upscaling results to visual content. Image models included are Wonder 3, Denoise Max, Super Focus 3, and High Fidelity 3. For video, Starlight Precise 2.5 and Astra 2 were announced.

The collection of models offers powerful sharpening, denoising, and upscaling results to visual content.

“This is both the largest and most technically advanced set of models we’ve released in the company’s history,” says Eric Yang, CEO, Topaz Labs. “We launched Topaz NeuroStream earlier this year with the goal of enabling local rendering of complex models for more users. Without such technology, the complex, heavyweight AI models in today’s release would have been limited to cloud-only rendering, forcing users to pay per use and be reliant on internet connection. We believe local use is crucial to the future of AI in both professional and consumer use cases, and today’s release is a huge step.” 

Topaz NeuroStream is proprietary technology that reduces VRAM usage by up to 95% and allows exponentially more users on consumer-grade hardware to use AI models locally. A total of six Topaz models are now powered by NeuroStream.

Next-Gen Release Image Models 

Wonder 3: A magical, one-click sharpen, upscale, and denoise model for images.
Denoise Max: New standard for removing noise and grain in images.
Super Focus 3: Next-level sharpening model that brings subjects back from the blur.
High Fidelity 3: The newest model for upscaling high-res inputs like smartphone photos and RAW images.

All image models in this release are available in Topaz Photo desktop application and via API. Wonder 3 and Denoise Max are also available in Express, a web-based tool.

Next-Gen Release Video Models

Starlight Precise 2.5 (Local): Groundbreaking video model that brings out natural visual details with stunning results, with local availability in Topaz Video

Astra 2: The next generation of creative video upscaling that enhances clarity, richness, and visual complexity of videos by adding new detail.

Both highlighted video models are available via cloud rendering in Astra and API. Starlight Precise 2.5 (Local) can be found in the Topaz Video desktop application.

About Topaz Labs
Founded in 2005, Topaz Labs is a leader in AI-powered image and video enhancement. Its technology is used by 1.5 million customers, including 20 of the world’s top 50 companies. Known for industry-leading products like Topaz Photo, Topaz Video, Topaz Gigapixel, Astra and Bloom, the company continues to invest heavily in research and development, advancing the frontiers of imaging technology in collaboration with academic and industry partners.

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Dreame Technology Launches the L60 Series, Led by the Flagship L60 Pro Ultra

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1 hour ago

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April 28, 2026

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New lineup brings industry-leading intelligence and full-home automation to a new generation of robot vacuums

SAN FRANCISCO, April 28, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Dreame Technology, a leader in smart home innovation, today announced the L60 Series, a new lineup of four robot vacuums engineered for the full range of modern home environments. Built on a shared foundation of premium cleaning performance, intelligent navigation, and hands-free automation, the L60 Series is designed to meet the needs of every kind of household, from compact apartments to multi-story homes, and from single-surface layouts to complex mixed-flooring environments.

“The L60 Series represents exactly what Dreame stands for: powerful, intelligent cleaning that adapts to how people actually live,” said Ana Wang, CEO of Dreame Technology North America. “Whether you have a multi-story home, pets, mixed flooring, or low furniture, there’s an L60 built for your needs. Every model in the lineup delivers the core cleaning experience our customers expect from Dreame.”

Meet the L60 Series

The L60 Series is built around four distinct models, each tailored to a different home profile and cleaning priority:

L60 Pro Ultra — The Ultimate All-in-One. The flagship vacuum is purpose-built for large floor plans, multi-surface transitions, and complex terrain. Features the 3.46-inch ProLeap™ System, 35,000Pa Vormax™ Suction, Dual Omni-Scrub Mopping with Hot Water, and an industry-leading 6,400mAh PowerCore™ Battery.L60 Ultra — Precision Whole-Home Coverage. A balanced high-performer built around Dreame’s latest 2026 sensor technology and a 3.23in (82mm) ultra-thin design for precise navigation in low-light spaces and flawless cleaning under low-profile furniture. Includes AI-Enhanced 3D ToF Vision, 35,000Pa Vormax™ Suction, HyperStream™ Detangling DuoBrush 2.0, SmartDirt™ Detection, Pet-Friendly Care 5.0, and Matter, Apple Watch, and Home Screen Shortcut support.L60 Ultra PE (Performance Edition) — The Intelligent Step-Up. An upgraded everyday performer for homes that need an extra boost on hair pickup, with 30,000Pa Vormax™ Suction, the HyperStream™ Detangling DuoBrush, 3DAdapt™ Obstacle Avoidance, and Smart Pathfinder Technology with 220 object type recognition.L60 Ultra FE (Fine Edition) — The Essential Automated Choice. An entry-level powerhouse delivering the core promise of maintenance-free floor care, with 30,000Pa Vormax™ Suction, TriCut Brush 3.0, Dual Flex Arm Technology, and the full PowerDock™ automation experience.

A Shared Foundation of Premium Performance

Every model in the L60 Series shares a core set of capabilities that set a new baseline for modern robot vacuums, including:

212°F (100°C) ThermoHub™ Mop Self-Cleaning for hygienically clean mop pads after every cycle30,000–35,000Pa Vormax™ Suction across the lineup for powerful pickup on every surfaceDual Flex Arm Technology for adaptive side-brush and mop coverage in corners and along edgesMop Lifting for seamless transitions between hard floors and carpetAutomatic Solution Dispensing for consistent cleaning chemistry without manual refillsThe 8-in-1 PowerDock™ base station, which handles auto-empty, mop washing, hot-air drying, and solution management for truly hands-free operation

L60 Pro Ultra: The Flagship Experience, Redefined for Complex Homes

Leading the lineup is the L60 Pro Ultra, featuring select top-tier specifications optimized for large-scale layouts and complex terrains. It pairs the series’ most capable hardware with Dreame’s most advanced intelligence to deliver a seamless, one-stop cleaning experience that effortlessly tackles stubborn stains across expansive and complex home layouts.

At the heart of the Pro Ultra’s navigation advantage is the 3.46-inch ProLeap™ System, the lineup’s most capable obstacle-crossing system, paired with VersaLift Navigation for cleaning under low-clearance furniture. It is equipped with dual-laser 3D structured light, an AI RGB camera, and LED illumination, enabling it to recognize over 280 types of obstacles — for precise, real-time avoidance in any lighting condition.

The Pro Ultra delivers 35,000Pa Vormax™ Suction alongside the HyperStream™ Detangling DuoBrush, together extracting embedded debris, pet hair, and fine particles from every floor type without tangles or jams. Its Dual Omni-Scrub Mopping with Hot Water system pairs rotating mop pads with a Thermal Mop Pad and ThermoHub™ 212°F (100°C) Mop Self-Cleaning, while the AceClean™ DryBoard minimizes residue — eliminating grease, bacteria, and moisture that cold-water systems simply can’t address. An industry-leading 6,400mAh PowerCore™ Battery provides whole-home coverage on a single charge.

The Pro Ultra’s OmniDirt™ Detection Technology identifies high-soil areas and automatically triggers Mop Rewashing and Floor Remopping for a truly thorough result. Pet-Friendly Care 4.0 adds pet-aware detection and navigation, while Upgraded Intelligent Carpet Cleaning optimizes suction and mop behavior for mixed-flooring homes. Direct Voice Control and app control round out the experience for effortless day-to-day use.

Pricing and Availability

The Dreame L60 Series is available now through the Dreame website and Amazon (L60 Pro Ultra, L60 Ultra, L60 Ultra PE, L60 Ultra FE), with launch-offer pricing through the official website. Customers who purchase on dreametech.com receive a free accessory kit with their order.

L60 Pro Ultra — MSRP $1,399.99 | Launch Offer $1,259.99L60 Ultra — MSRP $1,299.99 | Launch Offer $1,169.99L60 Ultra PE — MSRP $1,099.99 | Launch Offer $879.99L60 Ultra FE — MSRP $999.99 | Launch Offer $749.99

For more information about the L60 Series, visit dreametech.com/pages/l60-series-robot-vacuum.

About Dreame Technology

Established in 2017, Dreame Technology is an innovative consumer product company focused on smart home cleaning appliances with the vision to empower lives through technology. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Twitter. For more information, please visit https://www.dreametech.com/.

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