The ABA TechShows annual 60 in 60 session is always a rapid-fire rundown of the latest tech, tips, and tools that can give legal professionals a smarter edge. This year’s lineup did not disappoint. From AI assistants to simple-but-brilliant utilities, here are six standout ideas and why they matter—starting with one game-changing innovation for lawyers:
1. Gemini for Free Deep Research
Why it matters: Google’s Gemini delivers deep AI-powered research—for free. It helps lawyers break down complex topics, brainstorm arguments, and scan content with conversational ease. For firms that can’t justify expensive AI subscriptions, Gemini levels the playing field.
2. Descrybe.ai – AI-Powered Legal Summaries
Why it matters: Descrybe offers instant summaries of court opinions and statutes, saving hours of reading. It’s a major win for staying up to speed when time is tight, especially for solo and small firm attorneys managing high caseloads.
3. Billables AI – Passive Timekeeping Reimagined
“Is this the tool lawyers have dreamed of?”
Why it matters: We’d be remiss not to include this one! Billables AI was acknowledged as a bold response to one of the legal industry's oldest pain points: tracking billable time. By monitoring computer usage and auto-generating billing entries, Billables AI promises to recapture lost time and reduce admin overhead. While it requires human review to avoid overestimations, it's a leap forward in passive time tracking and practice management innovation.
4. Clean That Keyboard – It’s a Petri Dish
Why it matters: It's equal parts gross and necessary. Your keyboard harbors more germs than a toilet seat (yep), and the TECHSHOW team recommended practical fixes: the Bissell Aeroslim vacuum, ColorCoral Cleaning Gel, and a few well-placed disinfectant wipes. Whether at your desk or on the go, it’s a hygiene win that boosts focus too.
5. Voice Access & Voice Control (Windows & macOS)
Why it matters: The revamped voice control systems in both Windows and Mac now offer full hands-free navigation—great for dictation, accessibility, or just reducing screen fatigue. Bonus: the command list for Voice Access is super detailed and surprisingly powerful.
6. M365 Copilot App Capture
Why it matters: Microsoft’s Copilot mobile app works great for legal pros on the move. Snap a photo, record a voice note, or jot a quick memo—and it instantly syncs to OneDrive or another Microsoft app. Perfect for documenting client meetings, site visits, or inspiration in the wild.
Honorable Mention: Your Name in Landsat
This one’s not billable—but it’s brilliant. The Landsat app uses real satellite imagery to "spell" your name, assigning each letter to a different Earth photo. It’s a reminder that tech doesn’t always have to be practical—it can be inspiring, creative, and even a little bit personal. Use it to make your next Zoom background, gift a client something unexpected, or just geek out for a minute. Try it here.
View the slide deck for the full list of TechShow's 60 in 60.
Final Thoughts
This year’s TECHSHOW reminded us that innovation isn’t always a big bang—sometimes it’s a smart app, a well-placed voice command, or even a clean keyboard. And while tools like Billables AI are redefining legal workflows, the real magic lies in using the right tool at the right time.
Curious how to integrate some of these into your practice? Let’s chat.
