The discussions on day two of Google Cloud Next centered around a wide variety of topics, including the latest innovations in next-generation artificial intelligence, tax modernization and sustainability, and branded items from companies taking part in the event.

From cutting-edge discussions on Kubernetes’ milestone anniversary to illuminating insights into government modernization efforts, day two at Google Cloud Next offered a glimpse into the forefront of collaborative partnerships, generative AI and the latest swag.

“It comes back to simplification, making AI easier,” said Rob Strechay (pictured, right), theCUBE Research managing director and principal analyst. “There was a lot of really good guests on, from HCL and PwC and a number of others, that were on talking about how they’re bringing different apps to different things.”

Strechay spoke with hosts Savannah Peterson (second from right), Rebecca Knight (second from left) and theCUBE Research executive analyst John Furrier (left) at Google Cloud Next 2024, during an exclusive broadcast on theCUBE, SiliconANGLE Media’s livestreaming studio. They discussed insights and conversations on the latest developments and innovations in the tech sphere, as well as the best items of swag from the event. (* Disclosure below.)

A journey through innovations

As a part of the day two conversation at Google Cloud Next, the analysts talked about the celebration of Kubernetes’ 10th anniversary and explored the modernization of government sectors.

“We just had HCLTech,” Furrier said. “They’re all in with Google Cloud. There’s just tons of great stories around. More the same, which is next generation AI’s here. Generative AI enterprise, all good stuff.”

The discussion turned to modernizing government, a topic of great importance amidst regulatory challenges. The conversation highlighted collaboration and innovation within the industry, showcasing the need for technology to streamline government operations.

“I really also enjoyed Karen Dahut, self-described Mission Junkie; she’s the CEO of Google Public Sector,” Knight said. “She just had a lot of great things to say about how Google is helping to modernize our federal government and also local and state government.”

Another big topic of discussion was collaboration, which has emerged as a central tenet of success in the tech industry. This collaborative ethos, often associated with the open-source community, is now permeating the enterprise space, fostering a culture of shared success and collective achievement.

“I think one of the things that I really took away … is how many people are playing together to achieve success in this space,” Peterson said. “With Google announcing their Arm CPU, there’s just a sense that everyone needs components from each other right now or needs software from each other to be able to be successful.”

Swagging in style

There was also room for some lighthearted fun on the exhibition floor. The Savvy Swag segment highlighted the array of branded merchandise, each item vying for the title of the best swag. These items ranged from customized beanies to aroma therapy pens; the swag offerings were as diverse as they were creative. What set these swag items apart was the thoughtful design and intent, according to Peterson.

“Starburst really has a cool thing going on,” said Peterson, referring to one particular piece of swag. “This is a tactical pen. There is a compass on the end of this. There’s a flashlight inside, stylus. If you unscrew it, it’s even got a little screwdriver, which is kind of fun.”

Here’s the complete video interview, part of SiliconANGLE’s and theCUBE Research’s coverage of Google Cloud Next 2024:

(* Disclosure: TheCUBE is a paid media partner for Google Cloud Next 2024. Neither Google, the primary sponsor for theCUBE’s event coverage, nor other sponsors have editorial control over content on theCUBE or SiliconANGLE.)

Photo: SiliconANGLE