The integration of edge computing is becoming essential for enhancing data-driven decisions and user experiences, as highlighted by Kyndryl and Hewlett Packard Enterprise's collaboration to overcome resource constraints in deploying AI at the edge. Meanwhile, the landscape of AI continues to evolve, with Generative AI now complemented by Applied AI and the emerging field of Physical AI, which merges software and hardware to create intelligent systems capable of interacting with the physical environment. At the eTail Boston 2024 conference, experts noted that while AI is becoming more routine in retail, concerns about generative AI's effectiveness and issues such as data security are rising. The EU's AI Act, which regulates AI's application, particularly in high-risk areas, is set to impact programming practices, though many developers may not notice significant changes for non-high-risk systems. In Canada, public sentiment towards AI remains cautious, as experts urge for a balanced approach that prioritizes human values and equitable benefits over the uncritical adoption of technology. As AI technologies continue to proliferate, discussions around their implications on security, ethics, and societal impact are increasingly critical.